To the Editor,
Mr Martin Moore’s letter in last week’s edition of the Phoenix is a sad but true reflection on our town.
We at Finns Store regularly hear from tourists visiting our town saying “What is wrong with Canowindra?” regarding the state of the main street. Sadly, with main street buildings literally falling down, pigeons roosting in old unmaintained buildings, the main and side streets looking grubby and our tourist walk to the Swinging Bridge looking deplorable Mr Martin’s letter says it all.
Why is it that when across Australia other towns with similar heritage buildings and history have restored and beautified their buildings whilst Canowindra is doing the opposite?
Over the past 12 years Jackie and I have spoken to Council General Managers, Council staff, Mayors, Deputy Mayors, Councillors, and Members of Parliament about the state of Canowindra and valuing the unique heritage precinct of our town to no avail.
The solution is simple. Rather than devising grand strategic plans just keep the town clean, pick-up rubbish, pull the weeds rather than spray them, mow grass rather than slash it, work with building owners to find solutions to their building’s disrepair.
Change first needs to come from the top of Council, I suggest that they and their staff need to truly value Canowindra as its sad state of neglect shows what they really think of the town.
We encourage any like-minded residents to raise your concerns with our councillors before other buildings in our main street go the way of the Junction Hotel.
Geoffrey & Jackie Yeo