The Philanthropic Collective from Ferny Creek has thanked Yarra Ranges Council for reviewing the parking fines issued along Clarkmont Road during this year’s ‘Halloween on the Green’ event.
Event director Andrew Fillip-Gautier thanked the Council for its prompt attention to the matter, acknowledging that while community safety remains a top priority, the situation highlighted the need for clearer communication between all parties involved.
“We believe we could not have done more in providing a safe environment for the event, but we recognise that there’s always room for improvement in how we communicate with stakeholders,” Mr Fillip-Gautier said.
The Philanthropic Collective received confirmation from the Council that it will notify individuals who were issued fines regarding their withdrawal.
This decision comes after several community members reached out to advocate on behalf of those affected, pressing the Council for reconsideration.
“We are incredibly thankful to those who voiced their concerns and advocated on our behalf to the Council,” Mr Fillip-Gautier said.
“We would also like to extend our gratitude to the Philanthropic Collective Board, who unanimously voted to cover the cost of any parking fines raised during the event, had the matter not been resolved positively.”
However, Mr Fillip-Gautier clarified that fines issued for more serious infractions, such as parking in bus stops or in no-stopping zones, would not be rescinded.
“Those infringements, understandably, will not be withdrawn,” he said.
Yarra Ranges Council has stated that it will take up to 90 days to respond to appeals related to parking fines, although it aims to provide a written response within six to eight weeks.
“We apologise for any distress this situation may have caused,” Mr Fillip-Gautier said.
He’s hopeful the outcome will encourage more constructive dialogue between The Philanthropic Collective, Yarra Ranges Council, and the community.
The ‘Halloween on the Green’ event, which aims to bring the community together for a good cause, will no doubt continue to focus on enhancing safety and communication for future events.
