Doyle criticises both groups

The behaviour of the groups in favour of and opposed to the alcohol-free zone in Patonga has been criticised by Cr Craig Doyle, after attending a recent progress association meeting.

"Six councillors and Member for Robertson, Mr Jim Lloyd, turned up," he said.

"I must say the leadership of both camps was embarrassing.

"I was hoping to get an appreciation of their points of view."

Cr Doyle said the council was likely to abide by its decision to impose the zone.

"I can't support a decision to rescind the motion given what happened on the day."

He said: "It seems that you are either for them or against them, there is no middle ground.

"I find it particularly sad that a community is losing the thing that made them a village," said Cr Doyle.

"I also found it interesting to read that the primary business function of the store seems to be a bottle shop with 65 per cent of sales coming from alcohol sales.

"I'd be interested to find out if the licence is for a general store or bottle shop."

Cr Doyle said he hoped to have an individual meeting with proprietor Mr Robert Osborne to hear his side of the story.

Carl Spears, February 7