Councillors differ on Patonga drinking

One Gosford councillor has described the debate over drinking outside the Patonga General Store as having turned nasty, while another has described the long-standing practice as part of the lifestyle and cultural heritage of the town.

Community debate over Gosford Council's decision to impose an alcohol free zone at Patonga Beach has turned nasty, according to Cr Judith Penton.

Some of those agreeing with council's decision said they had received threats, however they did not wish to be named.

The owner of the Patonga Beach General Store, Mr Robert Osborne, told Peninsula News that he had no comment to make, because if he did make a comment "it would be too strong to print in the paper".

Cr Penton said a "civil war" had broken out at Patonga and at a recent Progress Association meeting she was booed and hissed.

"I'm not backing down," she said.

"The council voted 9-1 for the alcohol free zone.

"I can't understand why he thinks the alcohol free zone would put him out of business.

"He owns the vacant block of land next to the store, his patrons can drink there."

Cr Debra Wales, who voted against the alcohol free zone, said: "Nobody's threatened anybody.

"The fabric of this little village has disintegrated.

"Residents are absolutely outraged that this has happened.

"If you're intimidated by a small group of people drinking at the store, then go elsewhere.

"This is the their way of life.

"A qualified historian said in a heritage report that it is a part of their heritage.

"The community is absolutely outraged that council has ignored them.

"Under freedom of information, it was found that hardly anyone from Patonga signed the petition supporting the alcohol free zone."

Cr Wales said the majority of the petitioners were from Sydney and signed up by a member of the Progress Association, who lived the majority of time in Sydney.

She said Mr Osborne was in favour of the alcohol free zone coming into effect when his proposed tavern was completed, in line with council's original determination, but felt the zone was a hindrance with the current situation of the general store.

"The tradition of having a drink has been going for 40 years," Cr Wales said.

Cr Penton said the Progress Association was being overtaken by members being signed up by the Osborne family.

Of 75 members who joined the Progress Association between November 4 and February 1, 62 were nominated or seconded by members of the Osborne family, she said.

Cr Wales said the Osbornes had not sought out new members, but were approached by residents who wanted to help.

"All are residents of Patonga," she said.

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce supported the Patonga Beach General Store's position.

Carl Spears, February 7