School fence feud flares

THE Department of Education and Training has denied there was no consultation with neighbours about South Grafton High School's eastern fence line and, as the residents concerned stick to their guns with the claim, the problem of casual trespass remains.

Yesterday's lead story in The Daily Examiner told of how a small track of land between the school's new security fence and its neighbours had become an 'unofficial walkway' for pedestrians who had to jump over fences into private property to access Tyson and McGuren streets. Concerned McGuren Street neighbours, Cathy and Chris Amos, said they had not been consulted on the fence line prior to work starting a few months ago but the DET said yesterday all neighbours, including Cathy Amos, had been consulted on the issue by South High relieving principal Bill Dudgeon. Mrs Amos yesterday denied this, saying she had mentioned the fence to Mr Dudgeon in passing for the first time only a fortnight ago and he had not responded to her request for a meeting.

The DET responded further to the issue, explaining the security fencing had not been butted up against the two neighbours' fence lines in order 'to prevent the neighbours' fences becoming climbing points for the security fence, and to leave screening lilly pilly trees near the front eastern corner (of the school) untouched'.

“The resulting track is private school property and was sealed off to prevent it becoming a de facto general public thoroughfare to the detriment of the neighbours ... the department has no plans to open it up,” the statement said.

DET said further security was underway at the school.

“South Grafton High School's fence has significantly reduced casual intrusion and damage, but the school and school community are continuing to work with the department's security experts and police to reduce intrusion and vandalism further - details of existing and potential measures are not publicised because it would compromise their effectiveness.”