Council & Politics
13 March, 2025
March council meeting; lease change accepted to satisfy liquor laws
COUNCIL has approved a change to the leasing agreement with The Beer Idea Pty Ltd, which trades as Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co. in Halls Gap.
COUNCIL has approved a change to the leasing agreement with The Beer Idea Pty Ltd, which trades as Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co. in Halls Gap.
The new lease includes an exterior seating area not included in the previous lease.
Recent information provided by local police and Liquor Control Victoria concluded that under the original lease, the tenant was only able to serve the alcohol they made to patrons in this area, but, not any third-party alcoholic beverage.
The motion was moved by Councillor Jenny Greenberger.
“The business has been in Halls Gap for a very long time, very well respected business and I think it would be very important that council support that business in this lease reissue,” she said.
Cr Justine Hide also spoke on the matter at the March Council meeting.
“This will also improve the organisational effectiveness, allowing for a greater patron capacity without actually impacting on any other businesses or facilities,” Cr Hide said.
“This opportunity will assist a local Halls Gap business during a time now that they’re facing quite some economic challenges.
“By us supporting this, this is going to be a benefit to them and the greater community.”
Council resolved to accept the surrender of the existing lease and grant a new lease with the additional area included.
Council acknowledges those who gave assistance during Grampians fire emergency
Also at the March meeting, the council resolved to acknowledge and extend its thanks to the individuals, groups and organisations that provided assistance and support through the recent Grampians bushfires.
Northern Grampians Shire mayor, Karen Hyslop proposed the motion.
“Council and the community are acutely aware that the situation could have been a lot worse without the collaborative efforts and skill and determination of all the agencies involved,” Cr Hyslop said.
“They’ve been instrumental in minimising the damage, particularly in saving properties, including the township of Halls Gap.”
Councillor to take leave of absence
Council granted Cr Jenny Greenberger a leave of absence from May 1 to June 18 of 2025.
“The purpose of the absence is that I will be travelling to Europe for my son’s wedding,” Cr Greenberger said.
“While I am comfortable to keep up with council business through emails etc, I feel that through time differences and commitment I will be unable to be present, even online, for council meetings.”