'That is an insult to 99 per cent of the people in that area': Turner | Poll

Councillors considered a development application for a Bottle-O at one of Alpine Store’s tenancies on Tuesday night.

Despite the council’s community services department’s concerns it would stimulate alcohol-related crime, councillor Scott Munro said the shopping centre needed to be supported.

“I’ve had 37 years in retail and these small shopping centres rely on diversity of products to sell,” he said.

“I know that small centre there has struggled for a long time.”

He said Ashcroft’s Supa IGA and D’Aquinos bottle shop were also in the area.

“There’s no reason in God’s world why this particular retailer can’t have the opportunity to retail a product within the laws of this country,” he said.

Councillor Russell Turner referred to a section in the report alleging some residents would buy alcohol rather than feed their families. 

“I say that is an insult to 99 per cent of the people in that area,” he said.

Councillor Ron Gander believed the applicant was conscientious. 

“I don’t think it will increase the problems in the Bowen area – if they have to walk three or four blocks further, they’ll do it,” he said.

Councillor Glenn Taylor said he was surprised police did not object. 

“I can remember years ago there was a proposal put in [for a liquor store] at Kurim shopping centre – you’ve got to have a bit of common sense,” he said.

But Cr Taylor and deputy mayor Jason Hamling were outvoted and the council will draft a notice of approval.