Bega Valley Shire Council has received emails of complaint relating to the comments posted by councillor Robyn Bain on social media. There was shock at the turn of phrase Cr Bain used in a public exchange on the Eden Magnet’s Facebook page over the future of the Hotel Australasia, Eden.
Cr Bain told Eden’s Australasia volunteer, Amanda Midlam to “go get a life” after Ms Midlam questioned how a councillor could have discussions with developers, then propose a motion that the building be sold.
The complaints will be dealt with under council’s Code of Conduct which states councillors “must not conduct yourself in carrying out your functions in a manner that is likely to bring the council or holders of civic office into disrepute,” and that: “you must treat others with respect at all times.”
The complaints will be handled by the general manager, Leanne Barnes who can choose whether to conduct the investigation herself or have it handled externally. Ms Barnes said it was not usual for the outcome of matters of this scale to be reported publicly.
