RSL branches concerned fees could end local Anzac Day marches

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has moved to allay concerns from members of local RSL branches of the future of their Anzac Day marches. 

Wayne, a member of the Romsey-Lancefield branch, contacted Neil Mitchell concerned the fees associated with a traffic management plan for council put the future of the event in doubt.

‘The general talk is a bit of a grumble regarding the Macedon Ranges Shire needing permits for street closures for the Anzac Day march,’ he said.

‘Apparently it’s getting to a point where it’s expensive.

‘The talk is that the writing is on the wall as far as the march is going.’

Later in the program, Reg the vice-president of the Woodend RSL, told Neil Mitchell they had to pay $1400 for a traffic management plan which was a ‘bit rough’.

But Dale Thornton, in charge of roads at the council, said the council supported the marches.

‘We do require a traffic management plan because we’ve got to make sure people marching are kept safe and separate from the traffic,’ he said.

‘We don’t necessarily need people to pay the $1400 or $2000.

‘There’s no reason why last year’s traffic management plan can’t be used, provided it’s up to date.

‘The shire can check them for it free of charge.’