March 19, 2026
Letter to the Editor: Union boss should stick to Newcastle

Letter to the Editor: Union boss should stick to Newcastle

DEAR News Of The Area,

It is curious that in the 6 March NOTA article titled “Port Stephens Council reaffirms stance on offshore wind” that a union representative backed by the Labor Environmental Action Network asserts there was consultation.

Justin Page even described it as “absurd” that councillors were unaware of any consultation.

Yet I have not encountered anyone from the public who was aware of any consultation regarding RD licences.

There was certainly no in-person consultation.

Mr Page’s claim appears misleading at best; it seems he considers the mere release of “guidelines” to amount to consultation.

Further, his claims about votes on polling booths are completely inaccurate.

The unelected Justin Page and his union buddies should stay in Newcastle and stop trying to tell Port Stephens how to think.

Hunter Jobs Alliance needs to be transparent about who funds them.

As councillors we have to declare all donations.

Regards,
Cr Mark WATSON,

Port Stephens Councillor.

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