Sharks fans call rally for Sunday
BY MICHAEL CARAYANNIS
17 Nov, 2011 01:00 AM
DIEHARD fans and community figures alike are behind a pro-development rally, endorsed by the football club, in the car park of Sharkies Leagues Club on Sunday.Rally organiser Michael Garbutt, the president of Cronulla Sharks Supporters Club, said the event starting at 2pm would show people want the plan to go ahead despite recent criticism from Cronulla MP Mark Speakman, Cook MP Scott Morrison and shire councillor Kevin Schreiber.
"We feel the development is a positive for Sutherland Shire," Mr Garbutt said.
"We wanted to come out and show there is a significant proportion of people in the area who are in favour of this.
"Previously, only the position of the opponents were being heard."
The rally will start at the club's western car park.
Cronulla Sharks chairman Damian Irvine said the Sharks were humbled by the community efforts. "It's something that was put together that we obviously support," Mr Irvine said.
"We're really buoyed that people understand the economic benefits of the project."
Mr Irvine and Sutherland Shire councillor Kent Johns, a supporter of the development, will speak to the crowd.
"I think the majority of the concerns are quite insignificant compared to the upsides," Mr Irvine said.
"I also want to thank people for the support and endorsement of a project that I've been working hard for three years on. It shows the culture around the club and the selfless attitude."
The story has attracted hundreds of comments on our website including these recent views:
"The community overwhelmingly supports the development. The development itself is flawless and will do wonders for the local community and the local football team. It's gonna happen, and it'll be a great day for the Shire when it does."
— Garbs
"Another point on the "affordable units" — the strata fees on them are going to be enormous — what with all the pools, lifts, playground amenities , insurances etc — Affordable?? NO WAY — I am a sharks supporter and member and I cannot possibly support the current proposal.
— jrb
