We had a most productive meeting this morning with Mayor Martyn Evans. We were able to put forward the sites of conscience model and plan a forward direction for further advocacy. We believed that Mayor Evans what receptive to the ideas and concepts. We also had discussion around the current progress and the MOU Memorandum of understanding between the State Government and the Derwent Valley Council. It was also interesting to see how the Mayor saw Willow Court fitting into a total visitor package or experience. We are yet to see action, but we are hopeful that the direction that was explained will see something start soon. We are defiantly going to keep an eye out for that.

We hope to see as many people at the open day on May the 6th. We are putting a proposal to the Willow Court Steering Committee on what we would like to do. We spent some time up at the site, had a light lunch at the old school building and met a Gentleman from Queensland who was tracing his great Grandfathers history from Wynyard to New Norfolk, where he later died in the 1850s.

Mark, Janet and Anne

This was really interesting well done Paul I just think it is such a shame there is so much more history crumbly in front of our eyes and nothing is being captured or preserved in film for future reference. One day it will be too late, there wont be anyone left to tell the stories…..

Teena Tranter

Hello Tenna, We are a grass roots advocacy group trying to have the voices of those that called Willow Court home known and recognised as a part of the sites history. Welcome and feel free to share the group with those that may be interested.

Mark Krause

Thanks Mark I will I also have a working history within the walls of WC so just yell if i can be of any help any time. I believe u know how to contact me outside of FB.

Teena Tranter

Yes, thanks for your support for this important work.

Mark Krause

http://blogs.abc.net.au/tasmania/2012/03/more-on-willow-court-as-council-seeks-talks-on-funding.html

More on Willow Court as Council seeks talks on funding.

06/03/2012 , 10:52 AM by Sarah Gillman

Following yesterday’s discussion, Leon caught up with Willow Court’s only resident Mario Cortes, and Derwent Valley Mayor Martyn Evans.

The sad reality that is the privatisation and development of the Willow Court site.

Willow Court is significant to the Disability Sector! It has a rich and powerful history, and if we want to preserve it  we need to take some positive action. We need as a sector to find ways to work with the council and community to assist them in their efforts to find the future direction for this site. We don’t have answers but as a collective group we can start to find them. What we do need is support! Please join this page and invite all people who think have an interest and some passion.

Janet Presser