I was saddened to learn of the passing of John Devlin last week.

John served our community for over thirty years as the Environmental Health Officer, firstly with the Queenstown Council then the West Coast Council.  John was a much-respected member of both the Council team and wider West Coast community, with many of us remembering his days in bands entertaining crowds.  My sincere condolences to his family and friends.

Students from the UTAS Rural Clinical School are visiting Queenstown and Strahan this week to participate in simulated medical exercises.  It’s great to see the West Coast again selected to host the emergency scenarios, providing students an opportunity to put their medical knowledge and skills into practice.  Scenarios will be held on Thursday near the Queenstown Swimming Pool and on Friday a mass casualty scenario will be conducted in Strahan.  Residents should not be alarmed by the large presence of medical personnel and emergency services responding to the exercises.

Concerns have again been raised regarding the condition of some buildings on the West Coast.  I can assure residents that Council officers are regularly communicating with owners of these properties, however unless there is a fire hazard or risk to public safety our hands are tied.  Notices to abate such hazards are issued when possible however if these are not followed Council is then legally bound to complete the works.  As the cost to do these works are not budgeted for Council must find the funds within our limited budget, as despite efforts to recoup costs from owners, this often does not happen.  Council will continue to review such properties, including the most appropriate processes for us to help property owners build pride in their properties.

Phil Vickers

MAYOR