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The Bracks Government was irresponsible to commit itself to continuing the race in the Park without knowing (or making public) the full public subsidy, and without public consultation with users of the park and the responsible local authority (the City of Port Phillip). If the Government makes a further commitment to extend the race until 2011 without due process, it will be rightly branded a Kennett clone with no moral purpose of its own.
At our recent meeting, the Minister for Major Projects and Tourism, John Pandazopoulos, said he saw no reason for rushing through the signing of a new contract, though he would not want to leave it to 2004 or 2005. He confirmed that Mr Walker, Chairman of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, was pushing for the contract to be signed quickly, but that the Premier would make a final decision on the timing. Mr Pandazopoulos said he would talk to Mr Bracks about delaying the signing of any additional contract until all Government reviews are completed. He also said he would consider our request for full public consultation on the future of Albert Park.
We have always believed that there would be greater public resistance to the use of Albert Park as a race-track if the full public subsidy was known and the public was given a more reliable estimate of any indirect economic benefits. Before the Government makes a long-term commitment to the race in the park it must meet its commitment to consultation enshrined in the Parklands Code.
If the Bracks Government fails in its commitment to public consultation and openness then it will confirm what many of us suspect: that it is only interested in business and unions and that the community will miss out again. It will face a voter backlash at the next election, and we will be one of the groups who will see that the government pays the full price. We call on the Bracks Government to:
Keep up the fight!
Tim Gilley, Convenor
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Message of support from Senator Bob Brown
"I needed to write to tell you how much I, my office, any people I associate with, admire your ongoing stand for Albert Park. Not only do you remain true to principle, despite the juggernaut of environmental and social selfishness which has powered its sleazy way over Albert Park, but you inspire so many others faced with the imbalance of power and virtue. Good upon you!"
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City of Port Phillip reaffirms support for relocation of the GP
On 27 March the COPP Council passed a unanimous motion calling on the State Government "not to the commit the State to holding the race in Albert Park" and to "work to move the race to a permanent dedicated motor-racing circuit in a suitable location other than Albert Park, well away from the crowded residential areas of the City."
The motion noted that the event was "a wrong use of this City's limited public open space which should be fully open to the public at all times" and that "recreational use of the park is seriously affected for a substantial period of time."
"Proper and appropriate planning, maintenance and improvement of Albert Park, which has the potential to be developed into one of the finest inner-city parks in the world, is substantially compromised by the works and activities associated with its use for the Grand Prix."
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Secret Grand Prix contracts?
The Age (10/4/00) report on the Casino files carried an extraordinary report on the statements of Mr Carnie, the then Communications Director of Crown Casino, to the chairman of the Casino Control Authority during the bidding process. In the tapes Mr Carnie claimed that Crown had won the Grand Prix contract and that he had accompanied Ron Walker to London to conclude the deal. The Age seemed to focus on the boasting nature of the claim and that Crown knew of the "secret contract", when The Age should have been asking why was a Crown Casino employee involved in this process at all.
What should have placed this report on the front page was the statement by Mr Carnie that "I have here the signed contracts for the Grand Prix for Victoria". We have been led to understand that these were contracts signed between the State Government and the international Formula One interests, and that they are extremely sensitive commercially. Save Albert Park, for one, would like some explanation as to how they came to be in the hands of a Crown Casino employee.
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Commercial-in-confidence
The Bracks Government is to be commended for releasing the "Report of the Public Accounts and Estimates Committee on Commercial in Confidence". This report has been long awaited after the previous administration had clearly stalled on its release to the public.
It is somewhat ironic that at a time when the Government is attempting to secure another secret contract with Bernie Ecclestone, the new Chairman of the Committee, Labor MLA Mr Peter Loney, stated that "the use of claims of commercial-in-confidence to prevent the disclosure of information is one of the greatest challenges to face public administration today." Mr Loney went on to note that trust and confidence, the basis of public acceptance of government, depends on administration being completely transparent wherever possible.
Particularly pertinent to the Grand Prix issues is the recommendation that: "All government contracts should contain a standard clause which states that the contents of contracts are subject to legal requirements concerning disclosure and are prima facie public." The "Draft Principles for the Treatment of Commercial Information" provide that in future dealings with third parties (like Bernie Ecclestone for instance) "government agencies are required to act in accordance with a policy that favours disclosure to the public of information concerning their commercial dealings."
Another important recommendation is a set of criteria to define the meaning of "expose an agency unreasonably to disadvantage" in the commercial-in-confidence section of the Freedom of Information Act. It also proposes a definition of "trade secret" which does "not extend to the general commercial or contractual specifics of a commercial arrangement."
Both, if adopted, would make it more difficult for government bodies to deny information to the public.Whatever improvements are made to the commercial-in-confidence sections of the Freedom of Information Act 1982, the fact remains that the Australian Grands Prix Act 1994 exempts the Ecclestone contracts from the FOI Act.
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The GP and tobacco advertising
Dr Wooldridge has finally answered Michael Danby's questions on notice (see our February Newsletter). There are three particularly interesting points in his response:
The State Minister for Health, John Thwaites, has so far given no indication of tightening restrictions beyond plans to prohibit point-of-sale advertising, and appeared unaware of any phase-out proposals when the subject was raised at our recent meeting. The official Government line, as stated in a letter to a SAP member from Justin Madden, Minister for Sport, is that: "As a requirement of its contractual obligations to stage the Grand Prix, the Corporation is required to obtain a limited exemption from both Commonwealth and State tobacco advertising restrictions. I understand that if this exemption was not granted, then the right to conduct the event could be terminated." This issue will be pursued further as Commonwealth and State Government policies become clearer.
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SAP lobbies for support
Save Albert Park has written to the VNPA, ACF and National Trust seeking their support to call on the State Government to reconsider its intention to renew the Grand Prix contract for Albert Park, and to make plans for an alternative track. We have also contacted 40 other park and environmental groups asking for support in demanding government commitment to the Parklands Code and consultation with the community about parklands.
Letters have been sent to all three Independents pointing out where Government actions in respect of the proposed extension of the contract do not accord with the principles of the 1999 Charter. SAP has issued a strongly-worded media release on the proposed extension which has been sent to all three Independents and all Labor parliamentarians warning of a voter backlash if it extends the contract for the race in Albert Park. To reinforce this campaign the Vigil was moved to the steps of Parliament on 13th April.
An exhibition of photographs of the permanent damage to the Park, assembled by a SAP member, was displayed in the ALP Caucus Room in Parliament House during the last week of the parliamentary sitting. This was arranged through the Parliamentary Secretary of the ALP and agreed to by the Caucus. We have received an independent report that it is well displayed. Congratulations to that member for his great initiative and perseverance. Invitations have been sent to all Labor MPs, Independents and leaders of the Liberal Party suggesting a tour of the Park to enable them to see at first hand the effects of the race on the Park.
Thanks to all members and supporters who have maintained the letter writing campaign and have raised the issues at ALP branch meetings. It is absolutely essential that we keep up the pressure. We are very keen to receive feedback from members, so a copy of your letters and/or any replies you receive will be of great interest to us, and will help in formulating future strategies.
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SAP's meetings with State Government Ministers
John Thwaites
A Save Albert Park delegation met with John Thwaites on Monday, 27th March. The main purpose of the meeting was to follow up earlier undertakings by Mr Thwaites as the MLA for Albert Park, and to seek information on Government policy. He confirmed that the Government is seeking an extension of the contract for another 5 years. The delegation was able to put the arguments for an alternative permanent venue in the light of the Government's new longer-term plans. Mr Thwaites undertook to seek an opportunity for SAP to have some further input into the decision-making (see below a report of the meeting with John Pandazopoulos), and also suggested that we should develop a submission for an alternative track.
He also confirmed that
Two positive outcomes of the meeting were:
1. A firm arrangement that SAP would have an opportunity to comment on the draft economic impact report before it is handed to the Government;
2. Confirmation that we would be given details of past rental arrangements between Parks Victoria and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation (including evidence of payments made in Grand Prix tickets) and would have access to documents involving both these statutory authorities.
We have written as arranged to Sherryl Garbutt requesting details of past rental payments. We are currently awaiting a list of documents before requesting access in full. (Note: We have previously applied for many of these documents under Freedom of Information and been refused.)
John Pandazopoulos
On 12 April a Save Albert Park delegation met with Mr Pandazopoulos, the Minister for Major Projects and Tourism. A member of Susan Davies' staff was also present for most of the meeting. SAP made four points:
The Minister reaffirmed that it was Government policy to retain the race at Albert Park and that he supported the location. He was not open to arguments for a different venue in the light of the current intentions. He appeared to have accepted the argument that it was the Park that made for a successful Grand Prix and argued that Melbourne's position as the first race on the Formula One calendar was a result of the park venue. He confirmed that the Audit Review Panel will have access to all contracts and will determine what can be disclosed. However, he claimed that the Ecclestone contract states that disclosure will result in the loss of the event.
Mr Pandazopoulos gave some undertakings consistent with the Government's commitment to transparency and accountability:
However, he indicated an unwillingness to impose a shorter fixed period on the AGPC. He would consider consultation with the City of Port Phillip.
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What is ALP policy?
Many Save Albert Park members have sent letters to ALP Parliamentarians questioning the proposed extension of the contract for the Grand Prix in Albert Park. The standard response seems to be that it is "ALP Policy". Many of these replies refer to a quoted election policy that "Labor recognises the important tourism contribution of the Australian Formula One and Motor Cycle Grand Prix and will continue to support these events in their current location."
Two points must be made:
1. The ALP cannot claim that it received any sort of mandate on the Grand Prix in Albert Park. It was not an issue on which it campaigned.
2. But more importantly, any voter would have reasonably interpreted this policy position to mean that it would accept that the Grand Prix was contracted to be in Albert Park until 2006 which is beyond the term of the Government.
That the Government would actively seek an extension in its first year was never articulated. In the eyes of supporters and members who support the values of public parkland it constitutes a new policy.
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TV ratings down
TV ratings for Channel Nine's coverage of the 2000 Formula One Australian Grand Prix were again down on the previous year. Ratings for Melbourne this year were 40% down on ratings for the 1996 race.
| 1996 | 1999 | 2000 | |
| Sydney | 29 | 19 | 13.5 |
| Melbourne | 39 | 24 | 23.5 |
| Brisbane | 24 | 19 | 16.8 |
| Adelaide | 39 | 27 | 25.2 |
| Perth | 20 | 18 | 13.5 |
The Sunday Age must have seen these figures. Its recommended sporting highlights for TV viewers on Sunday 9 April listed the Clipsal 500, CART World series and the 500cc Motorcycle GP at Suzuka, and several other sporting events, but omitted to list the Formula One Grand Prix at San Marino. The big question is whether this pattern is replicated elsewhere in the world, and if so, what does this mean for the "marketing of Melbourne"!
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Albert Park hosts PR exercise
Parks Victoria is holding what is described in the Victorian National Parks Association newsletter as "Victoria's biggest ever festival of recreational opportunities and natural attractions" at Albert Park on Sunday 7 May from 10.00am to 6.00pm. And admission is free.
For some reason Save Albert Park was not officially informed or invited to participate in this occasion. SAP hopes that the VNPA will make it clear to its members that the Park was hardly in a condition to hold this "festival" any earlier. One could be forgiven for thinking this might be a PR strategy to showcase how good the park looks after four days of the Grand Prix. Perhaps the "moveable trees" and fake flower boxes will be brought out to beautify high-visibility areas but we can be sure that visitors will not be encouraged to visit those areas of the Park still undergoing "restoration" after the big event.
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Noise or culture?
Michael Danby, MHR Melbourne Ports, has written to John Pandazopolous, the Minister responsible for the Grand Prix and to the Commonwealth Minister for Defence on behalf of numerous constituents who complained to his office about the F111 flyovers during the Grand Prix.
The response from Minister Pandazopoulos was disappointing to say the least. "The flyover was an impressive part of the Grand Prix, and appeared to be enjoyed by patrons. It is clearly part of the excitement associated with the event. While I do appreciate the issues you have raised, responsibility for the jets rests with the Minister for Defence.For the last two years a Japanese Drumming Group has entertained patrons at the Grand Prix as part of the cultural event aspirations of the organisers. For some of the captive crowd this may have been the most exciting event of the day."
According to a parent of one of the performers, as the band played, word was sent from the pits "it's too loud, tell them to turn it down". The disillusioned cultural ambassadors obliged. The complainants remained oblivious to the irony in the situation.
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Black Swans' Lake - from our Resident Bird Expert
Some visitors come to Albert Park Lake to feed the ducks and swans and children enjoy the chance to interact with the birds. The swans have learned to associate food with plastic bags and waddle up to anyone carrying them. If they're ignored, they will not hesitate to untie shoe laces or tug on shirt-tails to attract attention. Learning is a two-way street!
Swan numbers have built up since the lake was drained and the bottom dredged as part of a pondweed control program initiated by Melbourne Water in 1992. The lake was refilled by July 1993. The nutrient level increased and the pondweeds grew again, providing enough food to support the swans. Late in 1992 Melbourne Water constructed a wetland habitat to try to encourage waterbirds to nest in the area. This was successful and has not only provided additional nesting sites for swans but also for Black Ducks, Mallards, Coots, Dusky Moorhens, Purple Swamphens, and Masked Lapwings. They also nest on Gun Island and along the backs of the Pollution Control Ponds at the north and south end of the lake.
We have had a long dry spell in Victoria, so the lake may have attracted more swans to the area. The increased food supply, additional nest sites, and climatic conditions may have all contributed to the population explosion with over 2000 Black Swans of all ages present on the lake at the end of 1999.
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Important dates
Vigil Gathering
2 pm, Saturday 20th May, SAP Office
All members actively involved in the Vigil and anyone interested in its future role in the campaign are invited to the gathering to discuss this important part of the campaign. Please bring your ideas. If you are unable to attend, put your ideas in writing and leave them at the office.Afternoon tea will be served.
May Day
2 pm, Sunday 7th May Trades Hall, cnr of Victoria and Lygon Streets, Carlton
Save Albert Park will be taking part in the May Day March together with other parkland groups. Look for the green, yellow and blue parklands flags
outside the Victorian Agricultural Hall. The March will finish at Treasury Gardens.
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Newsletter contributions
Copy deadline for the June Newsletter is Tuesday 23rd May.
The editorial group welcomes articles from members, news of community group events and other campaigns.
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