The Tollgates Combined Probus Club, Batemans Bay have told the Eurobodalla Mayor, Liz Innes, that they are dismayed at the possibility that the Community Centre may move into the hands of a new lessee who would charge commercial rental rates advising her that they are extremely concerned about the future of their club.
Jill Carpenter, President of the Tollgates Combined Probus Club wrote to the Mayor and Council saying "The Community Centre is the only hall in the Batemans Bay area that has the capacity to seat at least 100 members comfortably for meetings and also have some space for the essential morning tea. We also use the Centre for our monthly committee meetings.
"We need easy access for our many elderly members. There are no steps into the Centre. The large parking area nearby is adjacent to the Centre and is convenient for those with mobility issues. The Community Centre is ideal.
"The increased costs for hiring the hall would require membership fees to increase and could cause some members to opt out of Probus. This would be an absolute shame as many use the monthly meetings as a time to catch up with friends. Mental health of our aging community is most important, particularly when we are not used to being isolated, and we should do whatever we can to make life comfortable and enjoyable.
"If we are unable to use the Community Centre to have our monthly meetings, we will certainly lose members. Probus exists to provide opportunities to ensure good health and social benefit to retirees. Staying connected, times of fellowship and opportunities for social outlet are important to “maturing” people. We who are there know the needs and benefits.
"We ask Council to listen to those who need support both physical and emotional. Without the retired and ageing population Batemans Bay would not be the community it is today. So please put the population before dollars.
Above: Keep an eye out for these banners as the community builds momentum to advise the councillors that they do not accept Council's determined actions to lease and then sell the community owned Centre leaving community groups to find alternate venues.
