Thank you. 194 signatures and growing.
Thank you. 194 signatures and growing.
I want to thank everyone who has signed, shared and spoken about this petition.
In such a short time, 194 people have already added their names, and more members of our community are continuing to share their own experiences.
What began with concern about one incident has clearly revealed something much broader.
Today, a local woman came into our shop and told me that she had previously received a fine of around $700 because her disability permit had not been displayed correctly.
She had a permit.
She was entitled to use disability parking.
But she told me that she simply did not have the strength to fight the fine, so she paid it.
That conversation stayed with me.
People who are elderly, living with disability, seriously unwell or caring for someone vulnerable can already be dealing with enormous physical and emotional demands.
Sometimes those same people are then expected to find the energy to navigate reviews, complaints and appeals simply to have their circumstances considered.
Since this petition began, we have also heard from carers, people using walkers, disability permit holders, local businesses and families helping elderly relatives.
The message coming through repeatedly is not that people want parking regulations abolished.
People are asking for reasonable discretion, accessibility, compassion and practical solutions.
We are asking Nambucca Valley Council to look at safer passenger collection and drop off areas, accessible parking around essential services, and how discretion is exercised when elderly, disabled or vulnerable people are clearly involved.
Thank you to every person who has signed.
Thank you especially to those who have shared personal experiences that may not have been easy to talk about.
We are approaching 250 signatures.
Please continue sharing the petition with friends, family and others throughout the Nambucca Valley.
This is becoming a genuine community conversation, and I hope Council will listen.
Frankie