The Greater Shepparton Botanic Gardens Association (GSBGA) is disappointed with the decision by the State appointed Independent Panel to recommend that the Greater Shepparton City Council be able to rezone Parkside Gardens for housing.

However, it should be kept in mind that this was a technical decision only, based on planning issues. It was not an endorsement by the Panel of the Councils policy to demolish the park, as it was not part of the Panels charter to consider that aspect.

The GSBGA and associated Friends of Parkside Gardens will be considering the Panel report and then deciding upon future directions and action. At this stage our intentions are to explore every available avenue.

The loss of such an important asset to the Shepparton area will not be allowed to happen without all possible action having been taken to save it. We have lost so much of our historical assets and this would be another to add to a long list.

Bill Brown

Chairman GSBGA Inc.

Ph: 5821 7569