I read with interest Mr Tony Jakeman’s recent letter (published 13/3/36) claiming he was “denied access” to make an online submission on Gympie Regional Council’s Public Interest Review Consultation Paper on proposed Local Laws and Subordinate Local Laws.
He also stated he was unable to locate the Mayor’s email address.
Curious about these claims, I tested the process myself.
I accessed the Council website and located the online feedback survey immediately.
I was able to complete and submit my response without any difficulty.
Likewise, a simple Google search produced the Mayor’s email address within seconds.
While I cannot comment on the specific issues Mr Jakeman experienced, my own experience suggests the information and submission pathways are readily available to anyone wishing to participate in the consultation.
In an era where digital engagement is now a routine part of everyday civic participation, it seems far more likely that any difficulty encountered may have been the result of user error or unfamiliarity with online systems, and definitely not any deliberate attempt by Council to restrict public access to information or feedback mechanisms.
Mr Jakeman has alleged obstruction by Council, questioned if Council may be “hiding something”, alleged illegality of the consultation process, and assumed that others have been unable to navigate the Council’s online system.
It may be worth considering whether the problem lies not with Council (that provides an effective and efficient website interface for users) but rather that this particular user was challenged by modern technology.
– Rowena Amin
North Deep Creek
