No plans to evacuate Euroa or Violet Town

Response to Councillor Robin Weatherald's comments on the Channel 7 evening News, Saturday 10 March 2007

Councillor Gregory Carlson, Mayor of Strathbogie Shire Council, said that the comments made by Councillor Robin Weatherald on the Channel 7 news last Saturday were cause for concern.

Referring to Cr Weatherald's statement "that if it didn't rain in the next two months the town may need to be evacuated". Cr Carlson said that this statement was "factually wrong, alarmist and grossly irresponsible. No plans exist, there are no plans under consideration nor will there be any plans considered for the evacuation of Euroa or Violet Town as a result of the current drought".

"Goulburn Valley Water will transport water into the Euroa and Violet Town system for as long as necessary, that is, until it rains. While carting water to supplement town water supplies is a new experience for residents, Goulburn Valley Water has undertaken such operations many times before in other areas with the operations in some cases lasting many months".

Cr Carlson concluded "in these difficult and challenging times the residents have every right to expect their community leaders to act in a responsible and balanced way and to ensure that any comments made are based on facts not mere opinion. My fellow Councillors and I are concerned about Cr Weatheralds public comments and the worry they may have caused. We will be discussing these matters in the days ahead".

For more information: Marli Kelly on 0409 410 178 [13 March, 2007]

For details/interview call the Editor on (03) 5798 1858