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VCAT Approves New Music FestivalA new, annual music Festival on Phillip Island has been given the go ahead by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). By Bass Coast Shire Council - 13th May 2009 - Back to News Bass Coast Shire Council’s Planning and Environment Director, Hannah Duncan-Jones, said the VCAT decision regarding the Bass Vista Festival was not a surprise.
"In October 2008, Council voted to issue a permit for a one-off music and arts Festival to be held at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit," explained Ms Duncan-Jones.
"A number of objectors lodged an appeal at VCATagainst Council’s decision. Before the VCAT hearing, the Festival organisers, on advice from VCAT, amended their application from a one-off permit, to an annual one.
"The VCAT decision supported Council’s original decision to grant a permit, but extended it so the Festival now has an annual permit."
The VCAT ruling emphasised that the Grand Prix track was a suitable location for the Festival, stating that "… the site has ongoing use and experience for major events including with respect to traffic movement, waste management and emergency services operations. The proposal would avoid introducing this type of use into one of the more sensitive undeveloped locations around the Island."
The Bass Vista Festival can now be held each year, without needing to come before Council for approval.
"It is disappointing that Council’s original plan to issue a permit for one year and review the results before considering an ongoing permit is no longer possible," said Ms Duncan-Jones.
"However, there are a number of conditions in place that the Festival organisers will have to meet, such as confirming the date six months out from the event, and developing management plans each year.
"Council has a very good working relationship with the Festival organisers," confirmed Ms Duncan-Jones.
"They have a proven track record running Pyramid Rock and have always worked closely with Council and the community. I expect that good relationship will continue."
The Bass Vista Festival will be held at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit over a weekend in February or March each year. The Festival is expected to attract between 5,000 and 10,000 people.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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