It is interesting to note the consistent stance of the Minister of Crown Lands in relation to the issue of Feros Village. He initially denied the current Feros application for developing the village for intergenerational living and now is fully supporting the elders to live with security at the village. The aged rights of the elders are further bolstered by the bipartisan effort of Mullumbimby Neighbourhood Centre Management wishing to partner with Apollo Care and lodge an EOI (expression of interest). Both of these organisations reveal strong standards when upholding human rights. It is noted that the current Feros Care management may also apply. Unfortunately, their record on human rights does not reveal strong adherence to ratified human rights principles, both state and federal.
Current Feros management are clinging to their stated ‘development model’ by responding ‘that the EOI process by the NSW Dept. of Planning and Environment (Crown Lands) in no way ensures the eight residents who are refusing to leave will be able to stay, should an alternate operator for the site be found’.
This statement is a blatant crony textbook development statement. ‘Development at all costs! Keep the pinpricks of doubt alive’. As such, it can be seen how totally dismissive of human rights this current management is; and, as such, should not be tolerated under any democratic government housing the aged.
It is disappointing to note that Byron Council, despite initially stating full support for Feros Village has withdrawn support. Is this because it is being heavily lobbied by developers? Time will tell no doubt. Community support for the current model of Feros is positive with the any moderations being undertaken with aged rights in mind. Any community organisation operating for the aged must be transparent in addressing human rights. Thanks, Tamara for keeping up the pressure and no doubt there will be more pressure to come. The community has no more soul for witnessing the vile history of aged abuse which has included banishments, poor food, stress and very sad endings, The Echo published a full outline of ratified aged human rights on August 30, 2023. The community is strong and well informed.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
