Word spread quickly on Tuesday that the Port Stephens-Newcastle merger had been scotched.
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The significance of the timing certainly wasn’t missed by the deputy mayor, Cr Chris Doohan.
“It was 12 months ago today, the residents of Port came out in force to brave the stifling heat at two public rallies to show their resistance to the this merger proposal,” he texted.
“Today, we are rewarded for that effort – you bloody beauty.
“Happy Valentine’s Day, Port Stephens. I love you.”
Cr Doohan has put down the gloves he donned early in the merger fight.
He was relieved Ms Berejiklian also decided against a plebiscite.
“It would be a horrific waste of money given that 93 per cent of Port Stephens residents have said they don’t want it,” Cr Doohan said.
“I’ll keep the gloves ready if they’re needed again in the future.”