Minutes of the Berry Forum Meeting
Held on 14 April at 7.30pm in the Pavilion Hall at the Showground.

Present: 85 attendees, including Clrs Joanna Gash, Lynne Kearney & Patricia White.
Apologies: Clrs John Wells & Andrew Guile. Committee members Margo Claringbold, Marilyn Kellett, Hania Norman and Dorothy Hanbridge.

Welcome and Introduction (David Carter – Chair)

Berry Bypass progress (Shannon Chisholm – Fulton Hogan)
Updates on progress and plans were provided in an excellent presentation.

Strategic Plan Update (James Robinson, Chair Strategic Plan Sub-committee)

  • The project has now moved into Phase 3 (see the Timeline Overview on the website).
  • The survey responses have been collated and analysed to identify key themes (see website).
  • The Berry District Park Master Plan now includes the addition of a cycle track around the perimeter of the western half of the park and will soon go back on public exhibition. A list of names proposed for the park area will be included for residents to consider.

Berry Estate Trails Project (Derek Jorgensen)

  • There will be three trail types – Historical, Regional and Rail & Bike. 26 trails at present are being proposed.
  • Public land is to be used, but the project may require some private land purchases and permissions to pass through private land. There is ample land to be used along the railway line for the rail trails.
  • Funding is still an issue and support from government is being requested.
  • Community feedback and involvement is ongoing

Green Plaque Project (Annette Frohling – Berry Historical Society)
The Society is planning to put up circular bronze/green plaques on a number of Heritage buildings dating from the 1800’s, which are still standing in the Berry area.
The purpose is to increase the visibility of the buildings heritage and to enhance the cultural heritage of the area to residents and those visiting the area.
Cost of the plaques are $380 and the Historical Society has approached Council and the building owners regarding interest and financial support.

Administrative Matters (Stuart Coughlan – Secretary)
Minutes of the Forum Meeting held on 12th Feb were approved.

General Business
– Mount Hay DA – The Land & Environment Court appeal against Council’s refusal will be held on Monday 2 May 10.30am at the cnr of Bong Bong Rd & Mt Hay Rd. Residents may attend.
– Margaret Street voiced concerns about the potential permanent closure of the Berry Recycling/Buy back center and it was unanimously agreed that the Forum should convey these concerns formally to Council. Clr White explained the difficulties Council was confronting, following the contracting company’s move into receivership.

Meeting closed 8:50pm

Next Meeting is Thursday 9th June 7.30pm in the Pavilion hall at the Showground.