NEW Norfolk's infamous mis-spelled "bicentennary" plaque looks like it is set in stone, with Derwent Valley mayor Tony Nicholson flatly refusing to have the inscription corrected. Speaking at the March council meeting, Councillor Nicholson said the public was unlikely to notice the errors on the plaque unless its critic, Damian Bester, proposed standing alongside to point them out. "What a great idea," Mr Bester responded.Bester is now seeking opinions on whether balloons or streamers are most appropriate for festival day (in red, white and black of course).
Sadly Mayor Nicholson does not credit the public with much intelligence if his statement that 'the public would not notice' is correct. I for one am most concerned and have expressed that opinion quite openly, that such a lovely plaque to denote the celebration of the bicentenary of New Norfolk, contains so many blatant errors and demeans the education of the population. I would personally only be too happy to contribute towards a replacement if cost is the only consideration (and not someone's ego)so how about the Mayor call for public donations and be positive about the issue.
ReplyDeleteNgaire Glover - Molesworth
I'm glad Tony has such a high regard of New Norfolkians and our visitors if he thinks no-one will notice the errors. Pity the plaque will be a reminder to our backwardness for the next 200 years.
ReplyDeleteWhat a good idea to have the people put in for a new one. I am sure the historical people and the committee of bicentennial people would be very pleased to have the mistake fixed at the earliest opportunity. Go on Big Tone, take a lead.
ReplyDeleteOld Historian
Considering the failing literacy rates here in Tasmania and the reputation we have here in New Norfolk it wouldn't surprise me to think that some people would not even pick up the mistakes on the plaque.
ReplyDeleteI do not for one thing think that it is the Mayor's fault as was it him who made the plaque? I think not. And when you are working towards a deadline and a public function to organise you will do anything to make sure it runs smoothly, even if this means just going with what you have.
As for Mr Bester or should I say "Councillor Bester", its seems he should focus on the better things the council is trying to do rather then focus on making them look bad. I'd like to see him do better.