Council parking blitz was 'un-Australian', says bowls club

A parking blitz in Woy Woy conducted by Gosford Council on Australia Day has been described as shameful and un-Australian by the Woy Woy Bowling Club and local residents.

Gosford Council has received a number of complaints about parking fines dispensed by its rangers at Woy Woy on Australia Day.

Residents reported cars and trailers parked on the corner of Burge Rd and Brickwharf Rd received two types of fines: "Stop on path or strip in built-up area" and "Parking contrary to council notice".

Residents claimed that the block where cars and trailers were parked was minimally used and did not affect pedestrians.

Residents said that the nearby car park was full as well as adjoining streets.

Mr Ken Dixon from Woy Woy Bowling Club said: "Our Australia Day was excellent before we learned of the parking fines.

"Most of those in attendance were outraged when we found out about the parking fines.

"Most bowlers are local residents and we felt that visitors to the area should not have been treated this way," Mr Dixon said.

"The fines were unjust.

"The fines were un-Australian.

"Gosford Council administration should be ashamed of its actions."

Council's director of governance and planning Ms Danielle Dickson defended the blitz.

She said: "Illegal parking on nature strips is a problem for pedestrians who may put themselves in harms' way as they try to navigate a safe path across these public areas.

"Illegally parked cars can also obstruct the view of other drivers."

Ms Dickson stated that "despite two offences being committed, council only issued one penalty notice in this instance.

"We would like to take this opportunity to remind all motorists that they need to be aware of their responsibilities when parking in Gosford City, and make sure they do so legally at all times," Ms Dickson said.

Media statement, 2 Feb 2016

Danielle Dickson, Gosford Council

Email, 2 Feb 2016

Ken Dixon, Woy Woy

Reporters: Thomas Birch and Victoria Power