As an example of people power, it was so successful it stopped plans for a 24-hour pub in Casula. But more than that, Liverpool mayor Ned Mannoun was so moved by sad stories of alcohol abuse and gambling from residents when he set up a mobile office in Casula earlier this year, he has issued a formal thank you to them. The application has been withdrawn, but Cr Mannoun wants it known that not only were the residents strong in opposing the plans, the council will now investigate ways to restrict such premises of ever being located near residential areas. It is worth pointing out that on council the strongest supporter of the residents was independent councillor, Peter Harle, and it was he who brought the concerns of the residents to the council in the first place. But still a mighty win for people power over the powerful hotel lobby.
In the 59th year of the Fisher’s Ghost Festival, Campbelltown City Council has developed a brochure tracing the origins of the town’s most famous ghost to give locals and visitors alike a useful reference guide on the legend which has captivated the imagination of generations. The brochure also outlines the origins of the festival and how it has grown from humble beginnings as a fundraising event to become Campbelltown’s longest running and most renowned annual community celebration. Inspiring a plethora of writers, artists, poets, songwriters and film producers, the Fisher’s Ghost legend has become an intrinsic part of Campbelltown’s identity, preserving a unique part of the city’s heritage and keeping the story alive for future generations. Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr Paul Lake, said the brochure would appeal to a broad audience and be a highly valued resource. “Whether you’re researching our local history or wanting to share the story with your kids, the brochure is a fantastic guide to Campbelltown’s most infamous resident,” he said. “There’s even the chance to walk in the footsteps of Fred, with the brochure containing a map and self-guided heritage walk of some of Campbelltown’s historic landmarks.” The brochure will be available online at fishersghost.com.au or from the Campbelltown Visitor Information Centre. Copies will also be available at Council’s information stall during the festival. For more information, contact the Campbelltown Visitor Information Centre on 1800 655 991.
Speaking of the festival, it is inevitable that with so much on, especially during the first weekend, that there will be a clash or two. As there was for those who attended a classical music concert in the art gallery and were enjoying some Bach music when the sound of drums could be clearly heard from across the road at Bradbury Oval where Fisher’s Gig was taking place. It didn’t ruin conductor George Kowalik’s Strictly Strings concert but the drum sound was, well, disconcerting.
Liverpool City Council will honour locals killed in action during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953 with a plaque to be installed at the current war memorial garden in Bigge Park. The four servicemen killed in the Korean War from the Liverpool local area were Robert C Brown from Moorebank, George A Roots from Ingleburn, Neville C Shepherd from Liverpool and Terence Sivier from Liverpool. The plaque will be installed at the site before Anzac Day 2015. Mayor Ned Mannoun said that Council had been contacted by the Liverpool Sub-branch of the Returned Services League requesting acknowledgement for the four soldiers from the local area who had been killed in action in the conflict, and that he was pleased to honour the request. Good for you, Ned.
