The NSW CFMEU is lifting the Green Ban that has been imposed on development of the Bondi Pavilion since 2016 after the local Bondi community have cautiously accepted a plan that will see the Pavilion remain a public space and its heritage is preserved.
"More than 4 years ago the CFMEU partnered with the Bondi Community in their campaign to keep Bondi Pavilion in the hands of the public and people of Bondi," said Darren Greenfield, NSW CFMEU Secretary.
"Bondi Pavilion at Bondi Beach is one of Australia's most iconic locations. In 2016, the then Liberal controlled Waverly council planned to privatise the operation of the Pavilion and close off access that had been used for the arts, education and included other facilities utilised by the local community."
"In a David and Goliath struggle the community called on the CFMEU to place a Green Ban on any development of the Pavilion. The CFMEU's members supported the campaign."
"It's with great pleasure that after all this time we are advised that the community, having ousted the previous local government representatives, have reached a position were development plans have been cautiously supported by the local community."
"It is a time to celebrate this achievement, but this milestone is also tinged with great sadness as our dear friend and long term member of the CFMEU and former leader of the BLF Jack Mundey is not here with us to celebrate the success. We take this opportunity to thank Jack and Judy for their ongoing support of this campaign and all their activism to save heritage, preserve the environment and strengthen social justice."
"The CFMEU's involvement in this campaign continued in the steps first taken by the BLF in the 1970s to protect Sydney's heritage. Today's announcement is dedicated to the memory of Jack Mundey and all the courageous members of the BLF."
"We are proud to have been involved in this struggle to keep Bondi Pavilion in public hands and can officially announce a lifting of the Green Ban."
Watch Jack Mundey speaking about the Green Bans in his final sit down interview with the CFMEU https://www.facebook.com/108287892602643/videos/270827350990743/
