The proposal to erect a commemorative stele for the centenary of Anzac has been in the public domain for more than a year.

There has never been any attempt by the Nelson Bay RSL Sub Branch to hide the proposal.

Our sub branch, which provides services and support to the vast majority of veterans in our area, does not enter into any process or project unless we first gain approval from the appropriate authority or organisation.

The TRRA and Nelson Bay West Park care group may well suggest that decisions re the park have been ad hoc in the past, however the sub branch observed all of the correct protocols in submitting our project proposal.

I personally addressed a Port Stephens Council meeting a year ago and detailed our proposal.

The council gave unanimous support and approval for our project and we gained a mayoral minute to that effect.

I was not aware that we were at any time required to seek approval from TRRA or the park care group.

I also, as a ratepayer, would like to see a master plan for the park to avoid a conflict of agendas if for no other reason.

I believe that an approach by the subject groups to the sub branch may well have avoided perceived problems.

Tom Lupton APM

Vice-President, Nelson Bay RSL Sub Branch