Blacktown City Council - Media Release - Forum Invigorates ‘Give Doonie A Lift’ Campaign

MEDIA RELEASE

1 August 2018

Blacktown City’s Council’s campaign to lobby for a lift at Doonside station was welcomed at the community forum on Monday night.

More than 90 people attended Blacktown City Council’s most recent Have Your Say Forum at Doonside Community Centre to voice their frustration over government neglect of Doonside station.

Long-time Doonside resident, Wendy Calman, described her life as a parent and foster carer as “difficult” without a lift.

“When you have too many children to fit into a car, or don’t have enough car seats and you live in Doonside, then you can’t use your own station to take the children out.

“This station has been on the cards, talked about and promised for over 20 years and we still don’t have it.

“It’s clear our community is not a priority for the government or we would have a lift by now,” she said.

Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said the continued calls from Doonside residents have become legendary in the area.

“People have signed petitions, written to the NSW government and featured in media reports about their personal experiences, but still the station is yet to get a lift,” he said.

“It is unfair to make the community wait any longer for what is the right of the residents rather than a privilege,” said Mayor Bali.

Residents made several comments, during a question and answer session, supporting Council’s campaign lobby for a lift.

One elderly resident who did not want to be named said he had lived in the area for over 50 years.

“Previously we didn’t need it because we could walk across the railway at the level crossing, now there is a ramp that is too steep and we are older.

“I really hope I get to see this lift so we can get around more easily,” he said.

Bradley Seymour, who uses a power wheelchair, attended the forum with a sign that read: “I lived my whole life in Doonside and can’t use my station”.

Other issues raised at the meeting were concerns about more community spaces for young people, commuter car park and community grants for sports clubs.

Council’s next community forum is in Ward 3 on Monday, 13 August, 7pm at Metella Road Public School, 117-131 Metella Road, Toongabbie.

“These forums are rare opportunities for people to come and meet Councillors and Council staff face-to-face, and I encourage people to attend,” Mayor Bali said.

“We want to hear your concerns.”

Next forum details: 
Monday, 13 August, 7pm at Metella Road Public School, 117-131 Metella Road, Toongabbie. Email: Forums@blacktown.nsw.gov.au