Last night’s smaller than expected community meeting to oppose the sale of Blue Haven heard from union and resident representatives, politicians from all levels of government and a former mayor, and saw the launch of a petition calling on Council to cease all actions that could lead to a sale and seeking State and Federal government intervention to ensure ongoing viability.

The newly confirmed Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, gave a commitment to do what she could through the new Federal Minister for Aged Care and the State Member for Shellharbour, Anna Watson, criticised the lack of consultation so far and likened it to the failed proposal to privatise Shellharbour Hospital.

The Chair of the Terralong Residents Association, John Ashworth, made a passionate plea for Council not to sell a cash cow (the ILUs).

"We want the sale of Blue Haven to be off the agenda completely, so the residents can again live in peace and serenity rather than worry and trauma."

The Secretary of the South Coast Labour Council, Arthur Rorris, prefaced his speech by saying that Kiama had the highest concentration of union members in any town, and questioned governance aspects of the sale proposal as well as whether the financial situation justified it.

“It is probably the biggest financial decision ever made by Kiama Council, in secret and without a scrap of consultation.

“Let’s seek other opinions and work it out as a community.”

Deputy Mayor Imogen Draisma said, “I promise we will investigate all possible options, and do all we possibly can.”

While there were criticisms of the consultation undertaken so far at the meeting, and that the CEO did not attend the union organised event, Council reports it has embarked on an extensive program of consultation with the community over Blue Haven. This has already had meetings with residents, home care service clients, and staff (including supporting an all staff meeting with the United Services Union).

Fiona Phillips MP speaking at the meeting

As a result of this, a suite of Frequently Asked Questions has been developed and placed on Council’s website.

Mayor Neil Reilly says, “It’s been invaluable spending time explaining Council’s resolution, answering questions and clearing up misinformation.

“Hearing directly from those most affected, our residents and others in our care, was a strong start to our consultations.

“There were lots of different views and ideas, plenty of questions and a good deal of anger about Blue Haven’s past expenditures, and demands for clarity in future.

“The diversity of views and strong emotions are natural and must be respected.

“Council is making every effort to engage and listen to our community, starting with those who are most reliant on Blue Haven’s services.”

Monthly meetings will now be held between councillors and Blue Haven’s residents, families, staff and supporters.

Amongst elements still to come in the community engagement plan are:

• a qualitative ratepayer survey
• open Q&A community sessions with councillors
• a public council report on the financing and construction of Blue Haven Bonaira

In the meantime, work continues on key reforms including separating financial ledgers and preparing asset management plans.

Kiama CEO Jane Stroud has thanked those involved in the consultations so far.

“I’ve appreciated the honest exchange of views, frank questions and chance to establish the facts with our staff and residents.

“There is a good deal of emotion and misinformation circulating about Blue Haven, so speaking directly with those most affected, calmly and with respect, has been the right way to start our consultations.”

Arrangements have already been made to talk with the new Federal Minister for Aged Care, and the NSW Minister and Shadow Minister for Health.