To Scott Hyams (Mullum parking fines, Echo, 10 December) – I too have been in receipt of such a parking penalty at the intersection of Whian and Dalley streets.
But mine is a good news story.
I wrote to the NSW Department of State Revenue (the collector of the money) and two state ministers (roads, and local government) and Byron Shire Council.
Yes, it took lots of angst, time and the wisdom of friends, but the outcome: no penalty, the matter is closed.
The parking officers conscientiously do their job, photographing wheels on the edge of the ‘footpath,’ but out of the driver’s view, on a very regular basis – a point confirmed by the adjacent householder and nearby medical practice.
Ah but wait – aside from the problematic path design there is dropped vegetation, deep potholes to avoid, no curb or guttering and certainly no signage.
Byron Shire Council is the entity responsible for maintaining the verge, I am told.
Statistics bah! Any evidence of this situation changing? Err, no. Because it is individuals who are penalised.
It takes time to write letters to those responsible, but in this instance, it is the best action. Collective voice can lead to change. There is no room for complacency. Shut up? Then cough up.
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. 
