Life and Limb: WARD LAUNCHES PETITION TO SEND A MESSAGE TO SHOALHAVEN CITY COUNCIL

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward MP has launched a petition strongly opposing plans by the Greens and Labor to water down tree management policies that have saved lives.

In 1998, Gordon Timbs lost his life when a tree fell and killed him. Mr Timbs had been trying to get the tree removed but Council refused to grant permission.

“Council introduced a very sensible policy that allows home owners to remove a dangerous tree that risks falling on your home,” Mr Ward said.

“Without any supporting evidence, Mayor Amanda Findley has introduced a Mayoral Minute to scrap this right of property owners that helps keep families safe.

“I am a conservationist and I want to see trees survive and thrive. But lives and property come first.

“I have had the opportunity to speak with Carlene Timbs, the widow of Gordon, who is deeply distressed by moves to take away a policy that saves lives.

“There is no evidence that this policy has been misused; sadly this is mad and dangerous idealism driving this debate.

“The Greens are a dangerous political party and I’m sure many people who voted for them will reconsider their vote in the future. I call on Labor to join with Cr Paul Ell and Cr Serena Copley this evening and oppose these moves by the Greens political party.

“I have started a petition to allow the local community to express its views and send a message to Council that we won’t cop this,” Mr Ward concluded.

The petition can be found at: https://www.garethwardmp.com.au/45_degree_rule