Church Street Newtown NSW 2042

Under Section 68 of the Local Government Act 1993 to use Camperdown Memorial Park for the Burgapalooza Festival on 25 March 2017 and 26 March 2017 with ‘bump in’ on Friday 24 March 2017 and ‘bump out’ on Monday 27 March 2017 including market stalls selling food and alcohol with live music and entertainment

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We found this application for you on the planning authority's website ago. The date it was received by them was not recorded.

(Source: Inner West Council (Marrickville), reference S68-201700001)

92 Comments

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  1. David Gwynn-Jones commented

    As a resident of Northwood Street I support and enjoy the community events in Camperdown Memorial Park however from what I can see this event is purely for profit and there is no benefit to the community in exchange for the alienation of the park.

  2. Joe O commented

    I agree with David. In the 9 years I have lived here there has never been a commercial event in Camperdown Memorial Rest Park, and I wouldn't want to start a precedent. Primarily the park is for the enjoyment of residents and visitors to the area. every weekend the park is full of people enjoying the area and is only disrupted once a year by a fundraiser, the Newtown Festival which is non-commercial in nature.

    Burgapalooza Festivals have previously occurred in commercial establishments and should continue to do so. There is no shortage of places in the area that has a history of commercial events, like Carriageworks who are experienced in running events like these. I suspect they chose Camperdown Memorial Rest Park (CMRP) because there is no rental required.
    I fail to see what benefit this one will bring to the community as there are plenty of burger places in the neighbourhood for people from all over Sydney to come and enjoy and there have been many instances of successful non ticketed food events in the area.

    I strongly oppose this event on several grounds, including:
    - CMRP has never had commercial events, only one, annual and well-organised not-for-profit fundraiser.
    - It will commandeer the entire park for an entire weekend.
    - a claim that there will be no road closures yet they plan on 6000 visitors during a buys time of the week.
    - no attempt has been made to contact local residents, particularly those facing the park or backing onto it.
    - The area is very busy across the weekend with local dog walkers and people coming for casual picnics and parties.
    - their own facebook post claims 10,000 people attended the April 2016 event. https://www.facebook.com/events/540133932778507/
    - Past events have been in venues and have been free: http://www.xploresydney.com/burgerpalooza/
    - with this amount of apparent interest, 10, 000 last year with over 17, 000 expressing interest they can afford a more appropriate venue than turning a community space into a commercial venture; http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/lifestyle/food/sydney-taste/burgapalooza-sydney-hashtag-burgers-forced-to-reschedule-event-after-10000-people-respond/news-story/5666df4ef8f362b32b69d33a670d95d9
    - previous events spoke of control lines, yet no mention of this in the plans at the entrance to Lennox street, in front of our homes. How are they dealing with people coming on the day expecting to buy tickets at the door? - no plans outlined.
    - the event runs to 9PM but no mention on how they will be clearing patrons from the area.
    - they propose a full two day event, something that has never happened in the area, or in this park, and definitely not for a commercial event.
    - the SEA is not a proper SEA, as it describes budget, marketing, staging but nothing about the effect of sound, noise, pollution, rubbish blowing in the breeze etc. I am surprised InnerWest Council considers this a viable SEA
    - children including neighbourhood children who depend on the park, will be barred from the area because of alcohol.
    - no public consultation has taken place with residents on any side.
    - No guarantees made that traffic along these narrow streets (Lennox, Mary, Eliza, Church, Australia, Federation etc, will not be disrupted.
    - No notice that security will protect residential property in the area.

  3. Justine K commented

    I object to this event being held due to the commercial nature of the event which closes off access to the public park for an entire 2 days. It's unprecedented. Newtown has enough draw cards without an event that offers burgers but charges a $15 entry fee. It's out of step with the local community/business expectations and Council should not approve a for-profit event that will reduce the capacity for local businesses to turn a profit themselves. Aren't things tough enough?

    Besides, burgers are soooooooo 2014.

  4. Matt Murphy commented

    I have read the above comments and they echo my own. This is a park for people and dogs. Paying to enter the park is simply not on, and has been said they could and should hire a commercial space.

    Furthermore, it would set a very bad precedent. Before you know it, the park will be leased out every weekend.

    And I also maintain that the whole burger phenomenon is over. Move on.

  5. Vivian Cafe commented

    I also object to closing parts of the park for commercial purposes.
    They want to close off access to parts of Camperdown Park, charge entry, sell burgers, make a profit for themselves.
    I'm not seeing that any of this is community minded.
    Not great for those that use the park for leisure as it was intended.

  6. Jason Carter commented

    I too object to this proposal based on it's commercial nature and using the park for the entire weekend. I feel a better venue for this event would be the Bondi Pavilion or even better, Penrith Panthers

  7. Emma Alcock commented

    I object to this proposal. The park is for the community, not for commercial events. I take my child to this park regularly and would be pretty annoyed if I could not use it due events such as these. The Newtown festival, however, offered specific entertainment for children and raised funds for a community cause.

  8. Sasha commented

    Completely inappropriate use of the park facilities which are used by thousands of local residents each and every weekend. The park should always remain non commercial or not for profit - if for a good cause. This event is neither of the two.

  9. Kate Mackenzie commented

    I object to this application. It is entirely unsuitable for this area. This park is used by large numbers of locals every day. It is a vital part of our community especially as many of us have little or no outdoor space.
    There is no other event that takes over the park apart from the Newtown Festival - which raises money for the Neighbourhood Centre, a not for profit centre that supports local people of all kinds and in many ways.
    For that reason it has the support of the community. This proposed event only serves to raise money for private individuals at great expense to the local community.
    Furthermore there are numerous problems in the application as outlined by other residents in their submissions.

  10. Gretchen Miller commented

    I too support the objections. Public spaces should not be removed from public use nor fees charged for entry onto pubic space.
    Make them pay for Carriageworks or whatever.

  11. Matthew Hendry commented

    Wouldn't Frazer Park at Sydenham be a more suitable venue for a event like this ? Love my Burgers ,Booze and Bands .....But only disrupt the park once a year with the Newtown Festival.

  12. Mark Nowicki commented

    I object to this application. Don't get me wrong, I'm a fan of burgers (and Clem's Chicken) but I don't believe that holding this commercial event in a public, regularly used park is appropriate.

    While Hyde Park seems to have sections of the park closed on a weekly basis for some commercial event or another, the 'Burgerpalooza' event would be disadvantageous to local residents and visitors alike. Furthermore, in a nation with growing obesity rates, is it REALLY appropriate to hold a festival promoting burgers? Perhaps that's a bit of a stretch on my part, but I'm just going to put it out there.

    Bad idea... maybe Carriageworks would be a more appropriate venue?

  13. Jen commented

    I object to the proposal as per all the reasons stated by Joe O above.

  14. David Palethorpe commented

    I object to this application. It is a community park, not a commercial venue. Far better places in the area that can cater for events like this - carriage works for example.

  15. Matt Rich commented

    I am a local home owner and kindly seek the opportunity to voice my opinion on this matter.

    Like many rate payers in the area I have noticed an upward pressure on the amount of money that is required for the services that is provided by council. As a young parent on a single inome I am conscious of every dollar I spend, so when I see my rate bill staring back at me I wonder what the council has done to minimise that amount.

    The council has a duty to all rate payers in the area to ensure that all opportunities for revenue collection are explored. This is a perfect example of an opportunity that will ease the burden upon local rate payers by providing additional revenue. Furthermore, many local businesses that are doing it tough at the moment would receive a much needed boost from the projected increase in traffic.

    I implore you to transcend the typical NIMBYism that comes with these requests for public comment and do the right thing for rate payers and the hundreds of local businesses that employ many locals and grant permission.

  16. Peter kaplin commented

    I object to this application. This is not a good use of the park, it is a for profit event that will bring nothing to the community. There has been no consultation with the local community. I am a resident of church st and it will bring significant negative impacts to me. There is no plan for parking , no traffic management and this is a community park not a for profit park.

  17. Amanda Local commented

    I object to this application on the following grounds as a local resident:

    - lack of consultation with the community about this application

    - commercial use of a much loved and well used local park for an event offering no benefit to the local community

    - the small size of this park and its location in an area with very limited parking for residents let alone visitors makes this an entirely unsuitable venue for this event

    - An event focused on the selling and promotion of a meat-based product is out of step with the values of the Newtown community many of whom support animal rights & ethical produce

    Thank you for your consideration.

  18. Kim Williams commented

    I live in Fitzgerald Street off Church Street and object to this event and is no benefit to the community. So no thanks, plenty of places they can go.

  19. GH Presterudstuen commented

    As a long term resident of Camperdown I share the objections expressed above - the proposal is fundamentally requesting the ability to privatise public land for profits for a limited period and I don't think that is anything the council ought to support. The vendors in question are most welcome to hire commercial space in Newtown or Camperdown and I am sure residents elwould support their venture.

  20. Emm Jay commented

    Massive burger aficionado here but I support the view that for a commercial event this is the wrong venue. Take a look at how long the grass takes to recover from Newtown Festival. Once a year is more than enough.

  21. Susan M commented

    Inappropriate use of a very limited public resource. Trading free access to our lovely park for 2 days for greasy fried burgers - you must be joking! We need space to exercise, walk dogs, sit in a cool breeze and catch up with friends. Our homes are tiny, our gardens/ courtyards are tiny - that's inner city living - but we need access to parks for our health and wellbeing. Furthermore the disruption to surrounding streets is also a huge price to pay. I support other points raised by in opposition to this proposal by other forum participants. A commercial venue is the best place for this event.

  22. Andrew Potts commented

    I object to this misappropriation of public space for a for-profit ticketed event.

    I can think of many more venues that would be more suitable for this sort of venues that would not require the cordoning off and monopolising of part of a public park that is used every day by the surrounding community.

    Organisers should hold the event somewhere else.

  23. Fran Hirst commented

    I object to the application! I live in Church Street and use our park every week-end. There has been no community consultation regarding this event. The influx of cars and thousands of people in our already congested streets is inconsiderate. This group need to find another venue to make money, and leave our park for the enjoyment of locals and visitors.

  24. Maree Browning commented

    I object to this event being held. This is a well used tpublic park. Paying to access a public area for an entire 2 days is outrageous. Parking and foot traffic is bad enough in the area already. Nor do we need the extra littering, drunkenness and noise pollution that will result from this event.

  25. Naomi North commented

    I object to this application. This park provides a valuable outdoor space for the rate payers and renters (who's rent covers rates) that pay for the park's upkeep. The application has been made without consultation with the community and fails to address key concerns such as traffic, noise and the fact that residents of the area will be prevented from accessing their public space freely.

  26. Hannah Fried commented

    I live 2 blocks from here. I go all the time, either crossing through to reach King or to just play with the dogs.

    I like burgers a lot, but I completely object to this. There is no benefit to the neighbours and blow-ins always leave 3 tonnes of detritus all over Newtown.

    No.

  27. Ali Benton commented

    Camperdown park is for the public. It is a free way to unwind, enjoy the community and relax on the weekend. Please do not let this event be held in the park. There are other venues that are much more suitable. The Vic on the Park pub for instance. Once you let a for profit event allow to happen in the park, it will be a slippery slope. Other commercial events will want to use the park. The other day I lay on the grass, enjoyed the pinkish hues of dusk and listened to the chatter of people around me. So much good happens in that park. Don't do this for the dollars

  28. Lyn McSweeney commented

    As a long term resident living in a street directly off Church Street close to the park I can see no benefit to the local community or residents for a "for profit" event. This event would also remove our ability to use this valuable green space where we exercise ourselves and our dogs for two days.
    I completely object to this event and the extra traffic congestion and parking problems it will generate on already cramped streets, not to mention littering, and as well as the noise pollution that will be inflicted on residents surrounding the park area.
    Camperdiwn Memorial Park is a public park and should not be rented out for Council's benefit for a for profit event.

  29. Simon Corderoy commented

    This is totally inappropriate for this venue. There is no parking, no access and no utilities. The park is a public resource that should not be used for commercial purposes.

  30. Jord Shore commented

    I strongly object.

    This new festival will have environmental and social consequence for Camperdown memorial park.

    Having a charity fundraiser (newtown festival) once a year is damaging enough to the grounds. There are no fixed amenities and erecting stalls on the grasses/increased foot traffic create erosion zones that make the park less habitable after festivals come and go.

    Just 'one more festival'?

    If this application is granted, it would be unjust to not let anybody with the same idea, *year round*, use the park.

    While this is a public space, allowing it to be a commercial venue for hire will be a deterrent for locals to actually congregate in this space.

    Please safeguard Camperdown memorial for its intended purpose (a recreational space for the LOCAL community) rather than profiting from our backyard then leaving it in disrepair.

  31. Lillia Marcos commented

    And this benefits the community? Purely for profit, send them to Carriageworks. Apart from the inconvenience to locals who live bordering the park - we get to put up with awesome noise/drunks who stay on after the even is 'closed' being a public park they can remain and then what?

  32. Ailsa Weaver commented

    As a local resident and daily user of Camperdown Memorial Rest Park, I strongly object to the proposed "Burgapalooza Festival on 25 March 2017 and 26 March 2017 with ‘bump in’ on Friday 24 March 2017 and ‘bump out’ on Monday 27 March 2017 including market stalls selling food and alcohol with live music and entertainment" being held there as opposed to a suitable private commercial venue.

    Council infrastructure is already struggling to cope with the amount of food and alcohol refuse generated by revellers who gather at the park on regular weekends. Residents, including young children and older citizens, are frequently confronted by the unpleasant consequences of the actions of visitors to the area who do not respect the social boundaries that should be observed in public spaces.

    The community should not bear either the social or financial burden of cleaning up after a for-profit event such as Burgerpolooza. It is cynical for the applicants to attach the word "festival" to the title of their entrepreneurial endeavour, as though we are to accept restriction of free and safe access to the park over a four day period could be considered beneficial to the local community in some of the ways as Newtown Festival might be.

  33. Wendy Bacon commented

    I strongly object to allowing commercial operators to take over this much used and loved community resource. Every weekend this parknis used by thousands of people. These operators should hire an appropriate venue

  34. B. Chambers commented

    Charging me to use my local park? I don't think so.
    I visit the park every few days and this is not acceptable.

    Let them have the festival at Carriage Works.

  35. Matt Cleary commented

    This application is contrary to the intent of a community amenity / facility. By its nature it is exclusionary and not a fit use of a community free space.

  36. Stephen Fuller commented

    Given that Camperdown Memorial Rest Park was a cemetery in its previous life, it would be disrespectful to permit a commercial for profit event of this nature.
    It is also disrespectful to the local business operators who have considerable operating costs where this event would directly impact their trade.
    Residents in the surrounding streets are already negatively impacted by the Newtown Festival charity fundraiser, they would be impacted the same way by this proposed burger "festival".
    Inner West Council, my response is a flat No Thanks as this proposed event is not in the best interests of the local community & subsequently the application should be refused.

  37. Keith Forbes commented

    As one of the convemors of a residents group encompassing streets adjacent to and nearby CMRP I would like to add to the previous comments and concerns around the commercial nature of the event, the lack of community consultation, the duration and ineffective planning with respect to neighborhood impact. We would like to request an opportunity to have these factors reviewed prior to any confirmation of the event.

  38. Dean Thorby commented

    As a local of Newtown area I look forward to events like this which bring those in the community together with those who live afar. I think this will only supports local businesses and the community at large.

  39. Chantal Omodiagbe commented

    I would like to agree to all of the above. It's dismaying to say the least and sets a dangerous precedent for the area to be used on a more consistent basis for commercial gain. My key concerns echoed above, are:

    1. Parking during non-event, non weekend times is challenging enough for residents in an area which relies on street parking for most. If the organisers are anticipating attracting up to 10k people over 2 days, what does this look like? Has it been considered that some people may drive to the area, park for a full 2 day period, sleep in their cars to have a party weekend.

    2. I have been alerted of this event by Keith Forbes above with no other communication from Inner West council. Why? This implies, as Mr. Forbes has stated above, that little if any consultation has taken place with the community.

    3.The length of the event is too lenient. Newtown Festival is a one day event which comes with its own disruption for residents but brings local businesses together and contributes financially to local community needs. This seems more like a booze up, burger bash that is inappropriately using public community space, and then charging us to use it.

    4. What is the market that the organisers are hoping to attract? Refer here to (1) above. Families may indeed be interested, but with alcohol being sold, the council needs to be serious about who this is likely to attract.

    5. What live music is planned? Noise is a major issue in the area and close consideration as to planned amplification of sound should be a priority. The Newtown Festival often chooses live music acts that use highly inappropriate language. I would hope that these questions are being asked as well as music genre, volume levels, cut-off times etc

    6. With an event of this size and over this duration there is likely to be spillout down Newtown's lanes. Hopetoun Lane and all others running adjacent to the park down to Salisbury Lane. This would require policing and strict monitoring. Note, many houses have living spaces and bedrooms at the rear of properties. Evening sprawling of drunk festival goers are not welcome when many residents have children.

    7. This style of event also encourages rental millennials in the area to party at home after the day, or in this case Sat and Sun nights. The surrounding streets then become ally ways of drunk kids partying all night long in our laneways. Noisy and unwanted.

    8. This style of event should be applying for a permit in a space such as Victoria Park. Practicalities/logistics, real if any benefits to the community need to highlighted need deeper consideration.

  40. Kim Vanderlaan commented

    As a resident of the area I'd be thrilled to see my local park supporting small businesses and the arts. Niche events like this are what makes our area colourful and interesting. Having attended the festival last year I can confirm that stall holders are mostly small, local food businesses, and local artists and musicians will be performing. It may be not be organised by a community group but it still benefits local members of the community and businesses alike. If it was an event run by redbull I'd have a different opinion but in this case I am all for supporting this :)

  41. ben crea commented

    Why are we becoming so paranoid and scared of the most basic level entry events, I live here and we ALL can cope with a gathering such as this.
    I for one would enjoy attending.

  42. Renee commented

    I object to this application as I live 4 streets away and do not wish to be inconvenienced by not being able to park close to home for an entire weekend - this is a public park and a cherished place for locals and visitors. For an event to charge its customers $15 entry with no donation to the community and take profit off local business doesn't sit right with me. The whole thing doesn't feel very well thought out or considerate of the residents in and around the area. Commercial events should pay for the sites that they plan to hold things on and not be stingy focusing solely on profit.

  43. Bonnie Brown commented

    As a long term resident of the Camperdown/Newtown area, living close to the park I can see no benefit to the local community or residents for a "for profit" event. This event would also remove our ability to use this valuable green space where we exercise ourselves and our dogs for at least two days.
    I completely object to this event and the extra traffic congestion and parking problems it will generate on already cramped streets, not to mention littering, and as well as the noise pollution that will be inflicted on residents surrounding the park area.
    Camperdown Memorial Park is a public park and should not be rented out for Council's benefit for a for profit event.

  44. Andrew McLaren commented

    I'm a local resident; I've lived in this area since 1980.
    This is a completely inappropriate use of Camperdown Memorial Park.

    - most houses around here have very little private yard space, we rely on the parks for quiet enjoyment of the outdoors. That is why the parks exist. Just look at the park any hour of Saturday & Sunday to see how actively it is used and enjoyed by people.

    - housing density round here is very high, the extra noise and human traffic will be disruptive to local residents.

    - parking is already a desperate situation without attracting more vehicles to the area; Lennox St and Church Street are already chaotic, traffic-wise.

    - Under no circumstances can live music be allowed, that is simply cruel abuse to local residents.

    - no event of any kind should ever be permitted in the Park after 6:00PM at any time.

    - contrary to some other comments here, this is not a "niche event" that makes Newtown colourful and interesting. Newtown was colourful and interesting LONG before the bloody-awful so-called Newtown Festival, etc, inserted itself unwanted into our midst. This "Burgapalooza" event is a commercial activity to make money for the organisers. It should not be conflated with a genuine community or arts event.

    - there have been no details about how this event will contribute to the local community. What proportion of the takings will be donated to local projects and charitable causes?

    - as the name suggest Camperdown *Memorial* Park is built over the graves from the former St Johns churchyard. It's not inappropriate for the park to be used for quiet enjoyment of kids playing, walking the dog, etc but it is disrespectful to the history and spirit of the site to be running noisy, crowded commercial events. Have some regard for the history and story of the place!

    - alternative venues are available which are already run and hired out on a commercial basis - for example the Carriage works.

    We have already seen the alienation and inappropriate use of park land at Camperdown Park (cnr Mallet & Fowler streets). These misuses of public land lead to misery for local residents and ratepayers. Council should learn from the mistakes it has already made.

    The Burgapalooza organisers should be aware that even if they somehow manipulate the Council into approving this event, they are still not welcome in Camperdown. They will be despised and resented by every resident in the area.

  45. Laura McGuinness commented

    Newtown is not a community which only supports events which directly benefit the local community and charities, not commercial events such as these. Our local park is for residents and visitors to enjoy, walk their dog etc. The area is already busy at weekends and does not need a huge event to take away from our caring, alternative, charitable and community focussed nature. Our park is only used a year by a non commercial fundraiser, the Newtown Festival.

  46. Scott commented

    I absolutely object to this event being held in Camperdown Memorial Rest Park.

  47. Mark Zureik commented

    Hello,

    While I have only been a resident in the community for a relatively short time I do have an opinion on this as the event was brought to my attention by my neighbour and I live very close. I generally take the family out (dog included) for a walk through the park each weekend.

    While I 100% see the point of those not wishing this event to take place I can't help but also notice the benefit that it can have on the community (that is IF money is being paid to the council - and they better!). Honestly I rarely see the park being utilised much on the weekends, with most people opting to visit the bigger & more secluded Sydney park.

  48. Trudie H commented

    Please reject this application. We live on Roberts St and have two small children. Getting a park is next to impossible now and we have a requirement to drive to and from home on several occasions on a weekend- frequently we have to park multiple streets away now. I can't imagine what a nightmare this commercial event would create. I absolutely support community events but sincerely believe this is not a for-purpose use of our park as so many residents describe above. Please consider a park where access is not such a problem now. Parking spaces are already commandeered by people permanently leaving trailers and vehicles there, as well as campervans meaning very few casual parking spots. Please act in the broader community interest and reject this poorly consulted and superficially planned event.

  49. Michael Reville commented

    As a nearby resident I take my child to this park almost every day. It would be a shame to trash the park with this event, and to shutdown the park and the surrounding area for 2 - 4 days.

  50. Mike B commented

    I completely object to this event. this is a completely commercial event with no benefit to the local community. i echo the responses previously mentioned

  51. Eli Reed commented

    I object to the commercial nature of the event in what is a public and community space.

    I object to the disturbance involved to locals when the event is closing down and people are leaving after 9pm on a Sunday and the disturbance again when the site is being packed up beginning from 6am of a Monday morning.

    I object to the disturbance of the area for what amounts to 4 days - Friday through Monday.

    Also, a the labelling of a $15 entry fee as nominal shows how out of touch the organisers are. $15 is a lot of money to pay for the privilege of having access to stand in queues to buy things.

  52. Andrew commented

    I don't think many posting here have read the DA clearly - the event plans on taking up a portion of the park (roughly 1/5th) for 2 days. A lot of people are alleging what "Newtown is about" in the comments - I think it is beyond dispute that Newtown is known Sydney wide for hosting alternative events you don't find in the mainstream, and this is one of them. Local councils are struggling for funding everywhere, surely the extra income is worth it. Our neighbourhood is a busy social hub every weekend, regardless of whether there is a one off event.

    Parks are there to be used, grass does grow back. Although I would hope the organisers have a firm plan in place to control garbage and waste to minimise any lasting impact.

    I resent the person above who maintains that Newtown is "against eating meat" - you are speaking about a very small minority, even in Newtown. The majority of Newtown is not vegan or vegetarian.

  53. Denis J & Bee Poh Y commented

    Totally against any big events in Camperdown Memorial Park as I consider that it should be a recreational facility for the immediate neighbourhood. Newtown Festival is okay but that should be it for any 12 month period. Also who pays for the damage to the grassed areas, paving etc. caused by these festivals? Locals already see overuse, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights, brought to us by the State Government’s lockout laws. Local residents need to have this Park available for our own recreational needs. So it is a definite "No" from me. These requests should be declared outside the Council's defined uses for this park (No such requests to be considered in the future). Council should instead focus on preventing overnight camping in Federation Street and stopping excessive noise by people partying in the Park into the wee hours of the morning

  54. Jane wei commented

    I object to this . It really effects the businesses normal trading near the park and the neighbors / local resident around the park, it also impacts on the parking situation for customers near the park. A lot of residents use the park for dog walking and time spent with friends and family. Please take this festival else where .

  55. Liz Brigden commented

    I object to this proposal, this is a public space used by all of us. It should not be closed off for a commercial for profit event, there are many other locations they could use

  56. Todd commented

    I object to this event.

    I reject the idea that our public space should be used for private profit.

    There is no community benefit from this event, and Council should not approve this application.

  57. Gemma E commented

    So a private person/group is wanting to close off a public park and charge members of the public to enter public land? I'm so appalled by this proposal I really have no words.

  58. Sandra G. commented

    NIMBYISM at its best. This festival will bring vibrancy to the area. The community benefit is the increased activity brought to the park and the many thousands in fees they will pay the Council to hold it in the park. As for the person complaining that 'organisers haven't reached out to the public' that is Council's job via public notification. People complain about Mr Baird and the lock out laws yet want to strangle anything new and different. And no, I am in no way associated with the project and won't even go but I hate entitled NIMBYs - so we will be making damn sure we show our support for this project.

  59. Jennifer Killen commented

    I strongly object.
    It is not in the public interest.

  60. David Urquhart commented

    I object to this application.
    "to use Camperdown Memorial Park for the Burgapalooza Festival on 25 March 2017 and 26 March 2017 with ‘bump in’ on Friday 24 March 2017 and ‘bump out’ on Monday 27 March 2017"
    If it was to be only a one day commercial event I would object. However, it will, according to the application (extract above), effectively require access to our community park for FOUR days.
    One person supporting the application claims that the park is not used much on weekends. This is not true. It is so popular on weekends, especially in warm weather, that I refer to the park as Newtown Beach.

  61. Jeanette commented

    I object to the use of the park (as public space) for a large scale commercial event. The EIS also prompts a number of questions:

    1. Shows that 6 - 8,000 people are anticipated over two days at $15 entry fee. As a comparison, the budget (in the EIS) assumes 4,666 people (not including children that are free).

    These figures compare to 10K attending last years event - with 16K interested. Refer FB. Given the numbers are important in terms of assessing the impact the event will have on the local community, and also the wider area in terms of traffic management, can council clarify what are the nos, and how the patron numbers will be managed.

    2. The EIS includes a budget. This shows that the total costs are are $197K, with revenue being $203K, to achieve $7.5K profit. This assumes ticket sales of $70K and $90K in sponsorship.

    While council is not responsible for assessing the event viability, given the budget, it is assumed that the patron numbers are higher.

    3. The expenses for venue hire are shown as $8,516 with cleaning and waste management shown as $7K.

    If the waste management and cleaning costs are provided by Council, then the net gain to council would be negible.

    4. The no of patrons has the potential to impact the turf and trees.

    5. Last years event was held in a licensed premises. While a Special Event License is held by the event organiser, how will Council ensure the organiser has experience holding a large scale outdoor event.

  62. Davie Apesmont commented

    I don't understand why so many people aren't objecting this proposal. It's black and white to me.

    I have been an inner west resident for several years and I am in no way associated with the organisers. Here are my views on the situation:

    - it only takes up a small fraction of the park, the majority of the park is free for children and dogs etc.
    - events like this pump much needed money into our councils
    - this is a reputable, professional events company - they are working within council guidelines

    I do think they should integrate Newtown culture and restaurants (and possibly charities) with the festival. But other than that, as long as they pay the fees and ensure the park is safe and clean then why not give them a chance??

    Worst case, is they don't do a good job they will never be invited back again.

    I agree with Sandra in saying this is a typical case of NIMBYism. So many opponents cite weak excuses of 'not being able to walk the dog'. These people have NOT even glanced at the proposal.

    Please give festivals like this a chance. These revenue streams should be explored by the inner west council.

  63. Andrew Goodyear commented

    I object to this application. The park is a public space to be enjoyed by all - not to be closed to a private business for profit making purposes. This is a local community park.

  64. Loz local commented

    As a long term resident (just recently moved) and continuing to work in the area on the parks surrounds, I can vouch for the massive disruption that a 2 day event (which will actually be more like 4 days with set up and pack up) like this would cause. The rubbish left in the park for Council to clean up after every night (but more so on the weekends) is seriously quite enough for the residents to deal with and pay for through council rates.

    As it is a commercial event it should stay in commercial function areas such as Carriageworks, being much more appropriate.

    The 1 day event of Newtown Festival itself can be painful for residents especially at night, year after year, but at least the money being made is for the benefit of the local community. What will come from a festival like this? No benefit to the community at all, but in fact increased parking problems, more disrupted nights, extra Council clean up and also disruption to normal day-to-day routines for walking dogs and family picnics etc. And extra police, who pays for these extra public services when it's a commercial venture, not a community event?

    The demographic of Newtown is changing and has become more family orientated and therefore events such as these need to be looked at more carefully and considered as to how they will actually affect and benefit the local community hosting them.

  65. Simone Crozier commented

    I object to this application. The park is a community space. I love the local Newtown Festival, it does cause major disruption to the local residences around the Camperdown Memorial Park in terms of noise, inability to park anywhere close to home on that day, our bins used for public rubbish, people drinking excessively etc. But in saying this it is becoming more family orientated and is a fun day celebrating community and all things Inner West. A commercial event is just not in keeping with the area, which is a highly dense residential area unlike Moore Park, Sydney Park or the myriad of other 'entertainment' suitable venue options in Sydney.

  66. David Ellison commented

    It would be one thing if this was a fund raising exercise tied to a specific campaign, but this offers nothing to the community. For-profit ventures can't seek to limit their overheads by alienating public land - to allow such a thing would be unfair, as well as setting a worrying precedent.

  67. Brian Nagle commented

    Brian Nagle
    As a local resident I object to the inconvenience of having Lennox Road restricted or closed to local traffic of the period of the Burgerpalooza 'Festival'. Not only will our access to homes, schools and business be disrupted but the impact on adjacent streets will also be felt.
    Let not this be a precedent to further commercial use of public land. It is of no advantage to community at large or immediate residents in particular. Visitors to such events as the Newtown Fair are predominantly outside of the local area and there is every chance Burgerpalooza patrons will likewise not be locals. The use of Camperdown Memorial park and its nearby streets are for a broader patronage than those who may buy that right from council. It is a disgrace that council would ever consider such a proposal and have residents called upon to express an opinion.
    Marrickville Council (or is it Inner West Council?) don't let this DA pass.

  68. Robert Bennett commented

    I object strongly to public land being used for commercial purposes. Experience has shown that the streets around the park become a zoo during these types of events with parking issues, litter , people pre-loading alcohol outside the area (before entering) all create an unpleasant ,stressful time for the local residents - This is something we tolerate for a good cause (Newtown Festival) but fully commercial endeavors are better banished to venues that can handle their impact (Sydney University ovals , Carriageworks , Showground etc. ) This is a PUBLIC park not a 'for-hire' event space.

  69. Martin N commented

    I completely support this event.
    So the park will be closed for 2 days.
    So what. There are lots of parks in the city. Events like this can be fun and good for community.

  70. Jennifer P commented

    I 100% support this event taking place in Camperdown park. I think it would be a lot of fun for all members of the public. I have been living in Camperdown for a few years now and encourage such events taking place in our community. I frequently visit the park as well and I do not mind at all if they use the space. To me, it seems like a great day out and I'm looking forward to attending.

  71. Blake Maguire commented

    This is an unacceptable and discourteous act to residents of the Newtown Precinct. Now we have a commercial for profit organisation attempting to annex a public park without any notification to residents affected by the inconvenience, noise and parking mayhem it will cause.

    This will start a precedent of commercializing public space for no community gain other than to enable a large number of outsiders to enjoy an uncontrolled boozefest.

    There are better venues away from residential areas that would be more appropriate, namely Sydney Park and Victoria Park for starters.

    Its a disgrace that Marrickville should even consider such an application.

  72. Martin Novy commented

    I have already commented on this post with my support and after reading more of peoples responses I feel like I have to reply again.
    Grow up, stop being a bunch of whinny cry babies. Omg the park is going to be closed for 2 days let's all have a massive whine about it and complain like a bunch of dusty old mummies.
    The park is there for using. So what you can't take your stupid dog there for 2 days out of 365! so it can shit and piss all over the grass, I'd rather have beer and tomato sauce spilled on it any day of the week.
    I live in the area and I eat meat. Everyone around here isn't some crunchy hippie who doesn't agree with being an omnivore.
    I'm sure all your lives are going to be really affected by the contributions to the local council. So stop complaining.

  73. James Gilronan commented

    Maybe having more festivals in the park is a good idea... especially on the southern and western side (as opposed to the northern side) But is it right for local residents to have to buy tickets just to get through the park? And is it OK if the burgers are all being made by businesses from City of Sydney???
    Maybe we should have more markets in our parks, for LOCALS to try expanding their own business, and sharing their art, and music.
    Closing the park for 4 days just so money can be syphoned out of the community is 'not on'.

  74. joe commented

    to Martin Novy: one of the requests of the creators of this site ask people to do is to be polite and clear. everyone here has a right to their views on this DA, just like you do. What no one has a right to do is be rude to each other. Express your opinion on the DA, please don't insult your neighbours because they feel differently about this DA than you do.

    This is not facebook, these are submissions to council, where you're now on record berating other people who have the same rights you have, whether they align with yours or not.

  75. Emily Cachia commented

    I would like to add my voice to those opposing this application. Monetising public space as a means to then ‘provide’ the public with a “unique environment for people to enjoy an experience rather than just eat a meal” (Flying Ruby Events) is just offensive. That the existing unique environment and experiences occurring within Camperdown Memorial Rest Park are invisible (or should I say, not valuable) unless branded and exchanged-for-profit by events like Burgapalooza is the depressing argument underpinning this application. I strongly reject this type of logic and therefore stand in solidarity with those commenters opposing this planning application.
    I would also like to echo Joe O’s concern that there is insufficient detail contained within the application addressing noise, pollution and long/short term damage to park grounds.

  76. Evelyn Thomas commented

    As a business owner, I share the objections expressed above - the proposal is fundamentally requesting the ability to privatise public land for profits for a limited period. The vendors in question are most welcome to hire commercial space in the Inner West or Inner City.

    I am always happy to have events around or in the Inner West with funding going into the community however this event will start a precedent of commercialising public space for no community gain other than to enable a large number of outsiders to enjoy an uncontrolled event.

    Everyone has the right to submit their DA Application and everyone has the right to their feedback, let's remain polite and diplomatic with our responses.

  77. Simon Hudson commented

    Dear Sir,
    Your Reference: DA S68-201700001- “Flying Ruby Events"

    We wish to lodge an objection to the DA S68-201700001. Our reasons are as follows:

    Commercialisation of a public park:
    This event is not to promote public goodwill like the G&L Mardi Gras Fair or raise funds to support those in need through the Newtown Festival. It will promote hamburgers at the expense of the amenity of all neighbours surrounding the park.

    Noise:
    Noise will be at very high levels with the residents of Lennox Street hit worst, and bands will play for 18 hours over 2 days. As local residents, we currently have to leave our home when Newtown festival is on. But as mentioned previously, we support this festival and accept having to stay in a Hotel while the festival is on. But we believe it is unreasonable to have to vacate our premises for a commercial event that neither promotes funding for the neighborhood center or promotes goodwill and inclusion for the G&L community.

    Road closures:
    Whilst the promoters of this event claim people will use public transport, no road closures have been planned which will mean huge parking problems in the streets surrounding the park. Consider restricting access to residents only in Hopetoun, Roberts, Federation and Northwood Streets. Road closures should be implemented all the way to Salisbury road (residents exempted).

    Notification of future development:
    Inner West council does not notify all residents in surrounding streets about development applications for events in Camperdown memorial park. All residents in streets surrounding the park should be notified and have a chance to comment on development applications in the park which invariably are noisy and disruptive events. After all, the park is a public space available for all to use.

  78. Amelia Lawrence commented

    As a resident of Australia Street I love and enjoy the community events in Camperdown Memorial Park. This is not a community event, rather it is a profit making event with no benefit going to the local community. Instead, the local community will lost access to parts of the public park during this event. I do not see benefit to the community in exchange for the restriction of access to the park, I only see benefit to the commercial enterprise that will not flow to the community.

  79. Hunter Samuel commented

    you should never have to pay to enter camperdown park, this is a joke.

  80. Bryce Hooper commented

    Hold on a minute..... why the heck do they want to come to Newtown specifically?

    Personally I think this type of festival is best suited for Hyde Park, Prince Alfred park or even Victoria Park.
    Prince Alfred has Central station it make sure more sense and they know it.

    I feel they are choosing newtown for the "cool" factor only.
    Which isn't how the space should be used nor is it in the best interest of Newtown people. All the way is the "hotspot"

    Camperdown is awesome and has been awesome for decades. The community vibe from people, afternoon kick backs, music & dogs, that's the environment. That's the environment that gets used for those purposes every-single-day.

    No need for this type of event In this particular park. They are doing it for the wrong reasons.

  81. Penelope commented

    This event is an example of the wonderful entrepreneurship (and what i thought was) the great sense of community Australia has.

    Supporting local businesses is a great cause.

    The local government should encourage those within it to support such activities and encourage entrepreneurship, it keeps our country innovative and vibrant.

    Dogs love adventure, and people should too, trying out a new park will be a wonderful adventure.

  82. Sue Spence commented

    I object to this proposal as it is for a commercial event AND they wish to run on an annual basis. More burgers?...Newtown already has plenty of burger outlets. This is not an appropriate use of a public memorial park and has no benefit to the community.
    The impact on parking and traffic will greatly inconvenience local residences and business across three whole days.

    I have not made a donation or gift to a Councillor or Council employee

  83. Roxane McDonald commented

    Your Reference: DA S68-201700001- “Flying Ruby Events"

    I agree with all of the previously mentioned objections for this event being held at any of the Camperdown Park venues (Camperdown Memorial Recreational Park, or Camperdown Oval).

    I fully agree with comments from Joe O, Chantal Omodiagbe, Andrew McLaren & Jeanette (see above or previous).

    And here I reiterate strongly as to why I object to this proposal.

    * It is not in the interests of the local community, nor does it support the local community. It is a money grabbing event to benefit the profiteers promoting this event.

    * The music will be way too loud and can be heard as far afield as Camperdown Oval!

    * It will disrupt the flow of traffic in the region as many people will not use public transport but will travel by vehicle and attempt to park their vehicles in the surrounding streets displacing the local residents right to park their own vehicles close to their homes. This will not only impact the streets surrounding the park but will also impact the streets further afield, which occurs when Newtown Festival is held in the Camperdown Memorial Recreational Park (CMRP).

    * The park is a public space to be enjoyed by all, and should not be closed to a private business for profit making purposes. This is a local community park.

    * It will commandeer the entire park for 4 days over a weekend (includes Friday's bump in & Monday's bump out)!

    * They claim that there will be no road closures yet they plan on 6000 visitors during a busy time of the week.

    * No attempt has been made to contact local residents, particularly those facing the park or backing onto it.

    * The area is very busy across the weekend with people coming for casual picnics and parties, families bring their children for respite from the limited spaces of their houses which have pocket backyards and often no front yard.

    * Past events have been in venues and have been free: http://www.xploresydney.com/burgerpalooza/

    * By their own admission (https://www.facebook.com/events/540133932778507/) there are 10K who went and 16K who showed interest.

    * With the above figures, they can afford a more appropriate venue than turning a community space into a commercial venture; http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/lifestyle/food/sydney-taste/burgapalooza-sydney-hashtag-burgers-forced-to-reschedule-event-after-10000-people-respond/news-story/5666df4ef8f362b32b69d33a670d95d9 (originally cited by Joe O - 2nd to comment above).

    * How will the attendants and potential attendants be controlled for access? Particularly if the entry is to be from Lennox Street, in front of homes?

    * The event runs to 9PM but no mention on how they will be clearing patrons from the area.

    * They propose a full two day event, something that has never happened in the area, or in this park, and definitely not for a commercial event.

    * Children including neighbourhood children who depend on the park, will be barred from the area because of alcohol.

    * There has been no public consultation with residents on any side.

    * There are NO guarantees made that traffic along these narrow streets (Lennox, Mary, Eliza, Church, Australia, Federation etc, will not be disrupted. Nor any mention of how the impact will be for traffic in surrounding street.

    * No notice that security will protect residential property in the area.

  84. Lyn Local commented

    Please register my objection to this proposal, for reasons already raised here. We live close by, which is quite different experience to being able to enjoy and then leave it behind after a full day - the additional after-hours disruption to the residents could be expected to be similar to the aftermath of the Newtown Festival (which passes muster because of its community based aims). This happens in a residential neighbourhood on a 'school night', keeping residents awake into the wee hours each and every year. Police are so overstretched attending to more serious situations down on the Strip that they simply don't have the officers to attend to the industrial grade volume partying – and this proposal is for more than double the time. Can anyone tell me who will actually PAY for the extra policing and other back-up services required? As residents we already foot the Council clean up and damage bill each and every day of the year (get out into the park at 6am for a reality check) for the removal of rubbish left by campers and partying groups making use of the park each night, a huge increase in numbers since the lock-out laws. This "festival" simply needs to be held at a more appropriate venue, where the impact upon the neighbourhood would be less dramatic.

  85. Rus hayse commented

    Let it happen!

  86. Jason Fenwick commented

    I'd really like this event to go ahead. It seems to be well planned out with groups of people arriving at different times, plenty of bins for any packaging and finishing early enough in the night to not adversely affect nearby neighbours.

    If this doesn't go ahead, maybe it could happen at Enmore park, It's closer to my house :D

  87. Sasha Jones commented

    As a long time Newtown resident I am excited to have an event such as this coming to the area, I think a lot of these comments have been written by people who are misinformed, I attended the event last year and it was a great atomosphere that was family friendly, there were a lot of children and it was an all round great time for all who attended. Due to the nature of this being a food festival it was very relaxed and calm, the crowds were quiet and respectful, the event even supported local artists by having them come and paint live during the event and from memory there was even an opportunity to support the "Make a Wish" foundation. It's only for a short period over one weekend and I can't wait to come along and support small business owners while getting my burger on!!!

  88. Christine Webster commented

    I wish to lodge an objection to DA SN68-201700001.
    I strongly object to the use of public assets for private profit. The commercialisation of a public park will offer little or no benefit to residents and other regular weekend park users.

    The bump in/bump out period will negatively impact residents, park users and anyone driving through from Salisbury Road to King Street and vice versa.

    This park is well patronised on weekends, locking a large portion of the park will force non-paying park users into other areas of the park limiting the available space for everyone.

    People should not have to pay for the privilege of using a public park!

  89. Roy Head commented

    I support the event as a local of the area. A small section of the park being opened up to local entreneurs, with the intent to draw in the public to our vibrant area is good for the community. It's good for local business and adds to our unique Inner Wedt culture. 80% of the park remains available for those concerned with public access for children and dogs.

  90. Soumali Chitdamrong commented

    I object to this proposal on a number of factors. As a nearby resident and daily user of this park to walk my dog and visit the children's playground, I don't think the applicant has been realistic about the impacts their proposed actions will have.

    * All of the paths leading from north to south will be blocked, including a cycleway, paths used by commuters, residents and workers to get to King Street/public transport, dog walkers, mothers with prams and small children, and the elderly to get to the supermarket. The proposed 'walkway' along the fence line will be dimly lit at night, impact upon residents and in any case, is blocked by a tree - so cannot be considered adequate.

    * The proposal claims that "The event will not impact on the children's park", however the amplified stage is only 4m away from the most popular side where most children play, and then all the portaloos and skip bins are on the other main side. This playground is a very important resource for all parents in the area due to the fact we don't have any backyards.

    * The 'access road' marked on the plan for emptying skip bins, waste bins and portaloos over the course of 4 days is actually not a road at all, but a grassed area where people usually have picnics, and where the Magic Yellow Bus sets up each Wednesday morning. Besides being a hazard to all park users (including small children and dogs) during this period, I lament the state this area would be left in after being overrun by heavy vehicles for 4 days.

    * Apparently no road closures are required, but there is only 1 entry point and 2000 people per session. Lennox Street is already a traffic jam on weekends. Realistically, patrons will be wandering all over the road, spilling from the park and no cars will be able to get past that pedestrian crossing for the entire period.

    * I can't see any benefit to the community from this event. Apparently it will "provide a unique environment for people to enjoy an experience rather than just eat a meal", however at a cost of $15 admission and $10 per burger - it's a minimum of $25 plus drinks, and no guarantee of a pleasant place to sit within the designated area. I think a more enjoyable experience can be had on any other weekend at Camperdown Memorial Rest Park, simply by bringing your own food or buying takeaway from any of the various restaurants in the area (already including at least half a dozen burger eateries).

    * I also can't see any benefit to the organisers or patrons. The estimated profit is a measly $7534 which hardly seems worth the effort. Maybe it's just a PR exercise. For the people attending, based on the estimated patronage of 2000 people per 4 hour session, and expected 15 food and 5 beverage stalls, for each attendee to buy 1 burger and 1 drink, a burger would have to be served every 1min 48sec (133 burgers/stall each session) and a drink served every 36 seconds. Given the food shortage failures of the Sydney Barbecue Festival at the Domain (http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/sydney-barbecue-festival-at-domain-fails-to-sizzle-outraged-patrons-claim-20160130-gmhus4.html) and the recent Kylie Kwong Chinese New Year Market (http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/inner-west/chef-kylie-kwong-apologises-over-chinese-new-year-market-debacle/news-story/09b87d69a42091649fa29033d885938a) I'm not that hopeful of their chances. It seems like a flawed business model to me. Also the fenced off area is only approximately 5600 sqm in total, that means each person can enjoy 2.5 square metres of space each when the festival is at maximum 2000 capacity per session. That's not counting the area already taken up by the stalls/stage/portaloos/staff, so probably much less. Not really enough room to sit down, but enough room to queue I suppose.

    Having access to the park through this area blocked off to the public for almost 4 days (Friday morning to Monday morning) really is unprecedented. Especially on weekends which is a peak time for this park to be used by the general public, for get togethers such as birthday celebrations and picnics. This event would be better served for all concerned - residents, organisers and patrons - to be held at a more appropriate venue with more space, less congestion, better infrastructure and no other food options - such as Carriageworks, Cadigal Green or Sydney Park.

  91. Sam commented

    I strongly object to this proposal on a number of grounds.
    I am not a resident of the immediate area, but a high level user of the space. I feel that a commercial venture on this space is not in the interest of the immediate residents or wider community. At a minimum cost of $25 per person to attend (not including beverages) it is rather expensive for the average person. It will also affect custom to local businesses over the course of the event. Additionally the chaos it would cause to parking in the area would not only affect immediate residents, but again the wider community wishing to use the space (not only those driving, but those walking and having to deal with increased traffic). I also find it interesting that the stated expected turn out for the event is significantly less than the published amount they claim attended the last event. I feel an event like this would be better suited to a space like Victoria park, or Carriage Works.

  92. Tim Rioseco commented

    Good cultural event for local Sydney. The event runners are a couple of local young men trying to assist in Sydneys lacking cultural scene.

    I support the event and the location, the planning has been well organised on their part, they have done the hard work, let us locals enjoy a good feed in the sun.

    It's children friendly and 20% of profit goes to charity.

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