I wish to register my dismay at the government’s handling of the Ann Nichol House aged-care facility at Portarlington.
Ann Nichol House has been an important part of the fabric of the North Bellarine community for many years.
It was established based on a need in the community that had to be met, and the local community came together and organised and fundraised to meet this need.
It is a credit to all those involved over the years, and it provides a place of care that allows people to remain in their community.
Why is it that Ann Nichol herself is now publicly demanding that her name not be associated with the facility?
Does it have something to do with the fact that Ann Nichol House has been sold to a for-profit organisation?
Does it have something to do with the Napthine government rezoning Ann Nichol House from Crown land so it could be sold off?
Does it have something to do with coalition MPs not wanting to listen?
Does it have something to do with coalition MPs simply wanting to deflect attention from the issue and accusing the community of being misguided?
Does it have something to do with the Liberal candidate for the seat of Bellarine in the Assembly, Ron Nelson, not being prepared to listen and take on the issue like every other issue that is of concern for local residents? He simply runs in the opposite direction.
The Napthine government cannot hide from this issue. A full independent inquiry is needed to get to the bottom of this rancid exercise that has allowed Crown land and Ann Nichol House to be sold off.