ABC News Bulletin ­ QVMAG Trusteeship

Good afternoon Albert,

Thank you for clarifying all that and it is as I’d expected, we seem to be pretty much in agreement – in general, I suggest in furious agreement. However, “GOD is in the detail” as always. Unless the “budget process” starts right NOW I submit that too much is at stake to leave the matter of QVMAG governance and funding until later IF the institution wishes to place itself in the strongest possible negotiating position with funding agencies, sponsors, donors, et al. I also submit that too much is at stake to be ‘relaxed and comfortable’ about the way progress is pursued after all this time and under the current circumstances – and especially so with looming funding threats apparent.

Time is escaping while decisions and evaluations are currently being made, and apparently actively(?), without the meaningful and proactive engagement of the QVMAG’s Community of Ownership & Interest (COI) and indeed without there being a meaningful and proactive governance model being in place.

Furthermore, it is not “council” that is required to fund the institution “to the tune of $4million”, rather it is Launceston’s ratepayers who will be stumping up their hard earned cash for that purpose – conscripted in the form of an undisclosed levy within their rates. As you know I’m a staunched advocate for the ‘value of musingplaces’ in the context of current 21st C sensibilities given the potential dividends – social, cultural & fiscal – such institutions have to offer. However, given the community investments made and called for, some tangible performance indicators are required.

By extension I believe that, and I’m advocating that, the QVMAG’s COI in its broadest and most inclusive context would want to be, indeed needs to be, proactively engaged with the institution and consequently be afforded some tangible accountability via an appropriate and credible governance model – whatever form that may take.

I submit that the time is NOW for the Aldermen/Trustees to be fully engaged in reimagining the QVMAG’s future – governance, management & operational models – given all that is at stake and what opportunities there are available to make it a truly great regional musingplace.

Regard,

Ray

Ray Norman
<zingHOUSEunlimited>
The lifestyle design enterprise and research network

PH: 03-6334 2176
EMAIL 1: raynorman@eftel.net.au
40 Delamere Crescent Trevallyn TAS. 7250

WEBsite: http://www.raynorman7250.blogspot.com

Ray Norman: Secretary, Steering Committee
WEBsite: http://tamarinstitute.blogspot.com/

A TI Project – A Work In Progress
WEBsite: http://ponrabbel.blogspot.com.au/

“The only thing that will redeem mankind is cooperation”
Bertrand Russell

On 7/11/14 8:39 AM, "Mayor" <Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au> wrote:

Dear Ray,

 I've had a number of ratepayers congratulating me on my comments which like you I did not hear.

In an interview earlier this week I stated I support and believe council would support an independent board for QVMAG however as a new council we have not discussed this but would be discussing during the budget process. I also said should council be required to fund this especially to the tune of $4million of course we would want a say in the running of QVMAG as any board/council would
want a say if it was providing the funding.I also said council will continue discussions with the State Government.

Regards,
Albert
 
On 6 Nov 2014, at 3:27 pm, "Ray Norman"
Good afternoon Albert,

I’ve just received a phone call from someone who’d received a copy of my QVMAG OPEN LETTER and had heard you on the news this morning. Unfortunately I didn’t hear that news as I was engaged with another project this morning for a deadline that has just passed ... AND met.

My caller was saying that you were “misrepresenting [my] case” and that you were “totally at odds with what I was presenting”. As there is no transcript available of what went to air from my interview recorded some time ago or your remarks that followed I’ll have to rely on your memory. Where are we at odds and what did you actually say?

I’m a little perplexed that we might be speaking in discord as on balance I’d imagined that for all kinds of reasons you’d support, in a general way, the propositions I’m putting up for consideration.

Regards,

Ray

Ray Norman
<zingHOUSEunlimited>
The lifestyle design enterprise and research network

PH: 03-6334 2176
EMAIL 1: raynorman@eftel.net.au
40 Delamere Crescent Trevallyn TAS. 7250

WEBsite: http://www.raynorman7250.blogspot.com

WEBsite: http://tamarinstitute.blogspot.com/

WEBsite: http://ponrabbel.blogspot.com.au/
•
“A body of men holding themselves accountable to nobody ought not to be trusted by anybody.” — Thomas Paine

OPEN LETTER: QVMAG GOVERNANCE

READ THE LETTER HERE: http://openletter7250-1qvmag.blogspot.com.au/

Dear all,

After over 15 years of using the QVMAG as a case study for the Communities of Ownership & Interest relative to musingplaces and cultural landscapes I have had the opportunity to observe quite closely the QVMAG as an institution and its relationships with Launcestonians and Tasmanians generally.

It is an institution that I have had a long relationship with and well before I came to Launceston to live. I have work in the QVMAG’s collections; when I worked for the TAAB (now Arts Tasmania) it was a part of my responsibilities; as a lecturer at the university’s Art School it was a resource for myself and my students; as board a member of NETSS (now CAST Touring) it was a part of that organisation’s client base; as a LCC ratepayer for over 25 years now I’ve been contributing to its recurrent budget via my rate payments; as a cultural producer, cultural theorist and cultural geographer it is an ongoing research subject; and as a Launcestonian it is my musingplace at the bottom of the hill I live upon.

Like many people I have quite a bit invested in this ‘place’ as a cultural institution which by extension is in no small way is a part of a vast network of people, Tasmanians and others, who have cultural property, social histories ad much more held under the custodianship of this public institution.

With all these things in mind I was a member of the working group that drafted the institution’s current charter and as a foundation member of the QVMAG;s Museum Governance Advisory Board I participated in the institution’s first ever strategic plan. Likewise, with all this in mind it is clear to me that the institution’s governance needs a root and branch review given that its future sustainability and viability is being questioned. This is the background against which I am writing to all who in various ways are connected in some way with the institution’s governance and trusteeship – specifically LCC Aldermen, relevant State Govt. Ministers et al.

Yours sincerely

Ray Norman

Ray Norman
<zingHOUSEunlimited>
The lifestyle design enterprise and research network

PH: 03-6334 2176
EMAIL 1: raynorman@eftel.net.au
EMAIL 2: ray@7250.net
40 Delamere Crescent Trevallyn TAS. 7250

WEBsite: http://www.raynorman7250.blogspot.com

“A body of men holding themselves accountable to nobody ought not to be trusted by anybody.” — Thomas Paine

FW: CONFIDENTIAL: Accountability & LCC

------ Forwarded Message
From: Mayor <Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au>
Date: Sat, 11 Oct 2014 03:17:04 +0000
To: Ray Norman <raynorman@eftel.net.au>
Subject: Re: CONFIDENTIAL: Accountability & LCC

Dear Ray,

1. There was, some 18 months ago, (Tuesday 15 January 2013) an allegation
made by a member of staff of bullying involving the General Manager of
Council. The employer gave notice of an intention to make a workers
compensation's claim on 16 January 2013.

2. On the same day, that is 16 January 2013, the Council, via its
Management Committee, met and engaged Mr Cameron, an Industrial Relations
Consultant, to investigate the allegations.

3. It is relevant that the employee's particular position was effectively
redundant and there had been steps taken to see if she could be deployed
elsewhere within the Council.

4. Mr Cameron conducted his investigation and prepared a report dated 20
February 2013 which was provided to the Management Committee in confidence.
The Council, acting in its legal advice, claim that that document is subject
to client privilege.

5. On 26 February 2013, the Management Committee met and resolved to
investigate the disciplinary process required by Council's protocol.

6. On 28 February 2013, the Management Committee provided Mr Cameron's
report to its Lawyer and sought legal advice with respect to implementing
the disciplinary process.

7. The advice from the Lawyer is likewise subject to client privilege. In
essence, however, it disclosed some serious flaws in Mr Cameron's report
but, in relation to several discrete issues, found that there were matters
that were of concern and that the General Manager should be notified,
provided Mr Cameron's report and details of the matters to which he should
respond.

8. On Monday 7 March 2013, there was a formal disciplinary hearing attended
by the General Manager, his solicitor, the Mayor and Council's Solicitor.

9. The General Manager denied any wrongdoing and explained his actions.

10. On 12 March 2013, the Council's solicitor wrote to the Council setting
out his findings and recommendations following the formal disciplinary
hearing. This letter, likewise, is subject to client privilege.

11. On 18 March 2013, the Management Committee formally counselled the
General Manager following a finding that his manner of dealing with the
employee did contribute to a substantial degree of her illness, leading to a
period of incapacity.

12. The General Manager was directed to undergo specialist coaching to
ensure that there was no repeat of incidents with staff that could lead to
incapacity.

13. The Council have followed its protocol for dealing with allegations of
bullying and have done so promptly, complying not only with the Council's
protocol but also all legislative requirements.

14. The Council had a difficult and sensitive task to undertake and did so
with expedition, sensitivity, fairly and in accordance with the law.

15. That the Council is now subject to criticism for its handling of this
matter may have its genesis in mischief making and politicking, rather than
in a true understanding of the facts and circumstances of this matter.
There was disciplinary proceeding, a finding and there was a result all in a
very short period of time, which I trust will remove speculation.

Regards

Albert

On 9 Oct 2014, at 11:58 am, "Ray Norman"
<raynorman@eftel.net.au<mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au>> wrote:

Dear Albert,

One of the questions I had in mind was to do with the toxicity of the LCC
workplace and of the kind I put to you Oct 3 via email. No matter which way
anyone comes at such a question to you they are likely, it would seem, to be
met with avoidance tactics of just about every kind. Politically arriving
late and leaving early is but one time honoured strategy that typically only
works to a degree.

In regard to you ²previously [stating] we did have a report and council
acted on the recommendation of the report writer² that is a matter of
subjective assessment and the assessments that are now likely to be made.
You are probably aware that ³the report² to which you referred in previous
correspondence is now, apparently, circulating widely, and virally, within
the community. Anecdotally, people are making all kinds of assessments and
judgments, and I suspect forming various opinions from various perspectives
all of which is going on outside the formalities of Council. I suspect this
not an outcome that you welcome or even had in mind but there you go. In the
end accountability is inevitable one way or another.

It looks like this whole situation has been poorly handled and the finger
points at your lack of leadership. On one hand it might be said that Council
was trying to protect itself and thus the ratepayers but there are much less
generous speculations being canvassed. You might now want to take the
opportunity to do something in your own defence but only you know what that
might be.

Apparently, the report is pretty damming but we¹ll all have to wait and see
about that once the community forms a judgement and telegraphs it.

Regards,

Ray

Ray Norman | <zingHOUSEunlimited> | PH: 03-6334 2176
EMAIL 1: raynorman@eftel.net.au<mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au> € EMAIL 2:
raynorman7250@gmail.com<mailto:raynorman7250@gmail.com>
40 Delamere Crescent Trevallyn TAS. 7250
WEBsite: http://www.raynorman7250.blogspot.com



On 8/10/14 8:33 AM, "Mayor"
<Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au<mailto:Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au>> wrote:

> Dear Ray,
>
> I had a previous commitment representing council on Monday night which started
> at 7pm. I arranged with them if it was ok to arrive late to attend the
> beginning of the forum. They accepted this.
>
> Regards
> Albert
>
> On 7 Oct 2014, at 2:54 pm, "Ray Norman"
>
<raynorman@eftel.net.au<mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.ne
t.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au>> wrote:
>
> Dear Albert,
>
> I was at last night¹s forum to be informed and I was looking forward to the
> questions and answer session. Just as your response to my emails has been
> strategically phrased to keep me in the dark your withdrawal from the forum
> last night was disappointing and strategically timed to avoid being exposed to
> your constituency.
>
> If this is an exemplar of what you regard as ³accountability² I¹m sorry to say
> that it just does not cut it. Indeed, it poses a whole raft of questions that
> presumably the least favourable constructions and imaginings are ever likely
> to be assumed. Totally counterproductive in the end!
>
> So much for accountability! So much for effective governance, governance
> mindful of your constituency¹s aspirations and needs. No wonder you seem to
> condone, as you have with me, threatening and unconscionable behaviour. Little
> wonder either that you consistently duck your accountability despite all of
> Council¹s pretty words and rhetoric in its organisational values and community
> engagement policy. Not good enough!
>
> Regards,
>
> Ray
>
> Ray Norman
> <zingHOUSEunlimited>
> The lifestyle design enterprise and research network
> <image.png>
> PH: 03-6334 2176
> EMAIL 1:
raynorman@eftel.net.au<mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net
.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au>
> EMAIL 2:
ray@7250.net<mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net>
> 40 Delamere Crescent Trevallyn TAS. 7250
> WEBsite: http://www.raynorman7250.blogspot.com
>
> On 6/10/14 9:03 AM, "Mayor"
>
<Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au<mailto:Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:Mayor@la
unceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au>> wrote:
>
>
> Dear Ray
>
> As I have mentioned previously, the matter is a legal matter and I am unable
> to provide detailed information on this matter. The report is well over 18
> months old and during this time I have had media queries and Council has been
> investigated by Worksafe. I have always responded to the media as
> appropriate.
>
> Kind regards
>
>
> Albert van Zetten I Mayor I Launceston City Council
> T 03 6323 3101 I F 03 6323 3125 I
>
www.launceston.tas.gov.au<http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au><http://www.launcesto
n.tas.gov.au><http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au>
>
<http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au/><http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au/><http://ww
w.launceston.tas.gov.au/><http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au/>
>
>
> From: Ray Norman [mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au]
> Sent: Friday, 3 October 2014 8:43 AM
> To: Mayor
> Subject: Re: CONFIDENTIAL: Accountability & LCC
>
> Dear Albert,
>
> I acknowledge and accept your apology for the Commander King incident and the
> plausibility of your explanation.
>
> Nonetheless, in regard to LCC¹s toxicity as a workplace it seems that I have
> missed something. Where is your public statement presenting the facts? Facts
> like:
>
> * What allegations have been made?
> * Precisely what actions did Council take and when?
> * When did Council initiate the investigation you allude to?
> * What procedures have been put in place to mitigate against the
> alleged/rumoured toxic culture in the Council workplace?
> * What assurances can you provide in regard to the satisfactory resolution
> of any incidents discovered?
> * What value do you put on the safety of the workplace/s at LCC?
>
> Answers to questions of this kind would quite likely amount to accountability
> to your constituency. But no, I have not heard anything of the kind. However,
> I might have missed something as I only read some of the Examiner online and
> not always but a GOOGLEsearch does not reveal anything.
>
> If you perceive that I¹m harbouring considerable doubt then you are quite
> right. Why? Well in my experience someone can be threatened, defamed and
> shabbily treated, as I have been, and its opps and move on as if nothing had
> happen. It appears that the bullying that I was the subjected to achieved the
> desired outcome ­ me not being around to holding people to account.
>
> So if that¹s true for me, and I experienced it, why would I assume it was
> otherwise as a consequence the matter/s (circumstances) Council had
> investigated and had report on and as you say has been acted upon. If you
> expect me to accept your accountability on trust I imagine that you will
> understand why I might not be so disposed. If you expect your constituency to
> take your word for it on trust, then I put it to you that such an expectation
> is naïve, patronising and totally unjustified. Indeed its outrageous!
>
> There is a way open to you in concert with Council to resolve the issue. I
> cannot see the rumour and innuendo going away without your proaction and
> ideally sooner rather than later. For what it is worth that¹s what I think as
> a constituent on the receivers¹ end. So now its over to you.
>
> Regards,
>
> Ray
>
> On 2/10/14 7:12 PM, "Mayor"
>
<Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au<mailto:Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:Mayor@la
unceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au>> wrote:
>
>> Dear Ray,
>>
>> Of course I'm aware of your situation. I apologise as I assumed there was a
>> new situation you were referring to which I was unaware. The extremely
>> difficult shock of Jeremy's death may have led to me making a wrong
>> assumption. I sincerely apologise.
>> As previously stated we did have a report and council acted on the
>> recommendation of the report writer.
>>
>> Regards
>> Albert
>>
>> On 2 Oct 2014, at 5:28 pm, "Ray Norman"
>>
<raynorman@eftel.net.au<mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.ne
t.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel
>>
.net.au<http://net.au>><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.ne
t.au>> wrote:
>>
>> Dear Albert,
>>
>> Are you telling me that you are unaware of the manner in which I was
>> threatened, defamed and shabbily treated? If you are, then your memory is
>> serving you very poorly! After that you must be aware that rumour is running
>> rife within the city that LCC is a ³toxic workplace² and as each day passes
>> it
>> gains increased credibility on the ³where there is smoke there is fire
>> theory².
>>
>> It is legendary that if you are putting an alternative view to anything, then
>> obfuscation, bureaucratic cum legalistic humbug and the procedural clouding
>> of issues is likely to be what you find the higher up the ladder you go at
>> LCC. That is often expressed as rankism in action. I think I have had plenty
>> of evidence of that and thus I¹m sensitive to it when I hear it and confront
>> it yet again. We can only actually deal with this stuff at a personal level
>> otherwise it becomes all consuming.
>>
>> It would be no surprise to you that I might be sensitive to threat when I
>> perceive it. The fact that you are not coming clean and taking up the issue
>> with me directly only adds to the perceptions of threat ­ and the perception
>> of threat compounds on each occasion.
>>
>> If there is no fire then it is down to you demonstrate it. If there is, it is
>> likewise down to you to put it out and promptly. As it is, in the silence
>> there is increasing clouds of the stuff. Whatever, eventually these things
>> resolve themselves as the ³evidence² continually reveals itself as it must.
>> So it is back to James 4:17 ³So whoever knows the right thing to do and
>> fails
>> to do it, for him it is sin.²
>>
>> Regards,
>>
>> Ray
>>
>> Ray Norman | <zingHOUSEunlimited> | PH: 03-6334 2176
>> EMAIL 1:
>>
raynorman@eftel.net.au<mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net
.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.
>>
net.au<http://net.au>><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net
.au> EMAIL 2:
>>
ray@7250.net<mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mail
to:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net>
>> 40 Delamere Crescent Trevallyn TAS. 7250
>> WEBsite: http://www.raynorman7250.blogspot.com
>> NOTICE: this message, and any attachments, may contain privileged and
>> confidential information intended for
>> the exclusive use of the addressee named above. If you are not the intended
>> recipient of this message you must not
>> disseminate, copy or take any action in relation to the message. If you have
>> received this message in error,
>> please immediately notify the sender at the above address and delete all
>> copies of the message
>> The information in this email is absolutely confidential and
>> commercial-in-confidence
>> protocols apply to that information that may have a commercial application.
>>
>> Furthermore, the intellectual property rights of the author(s) apply in
>> accord
>> with Australian Copyright and Moral Rights Laws.
>>
>>
>> On 2/10/14 4:13 PM, "Mayor"
>>
<Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au<mailto:Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:Mayor@la
unceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:Mayor
>>
@launceston.tas.gov.au<http://launceston.tas.gov.au>><mailto:Mayor@launceston.ta
s.gov.au><mailto:Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au>> wrote
>> :
>>
>>> Dear Ray,
>>>
>>> My actions were in no way to threatening. I apologise as you have taken it
>>> that way.
>>>
>>> I took your comments of possible murder serious and wanted to know if there
>>> was anything I should be aware of that at present I am unaware of. You would
>>> be aware of the extremely difficult circumstances we have experience
>>> recently
>>> and if this has caused me to over react I sincerely apologise.
>>>
>>> I still am unaware of accusations in your previous email as there is no
>>> evidence.
>>>
>>> Regards
>>> Albert
>>>
>>> On 2 Oct 2014, at 3:55 pm, "Ray Norman"
>>>
<raynorman@eftel.net.au<mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.ne
t.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@efte
>>>
l.net.au<http://l.net.au>><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel
.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel
>>>
.net.au<http://net.au><http://net.au><http://net.au>><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net
.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@efte
>>> l.net.au<http://l.net.au>>> wrote:
>>>
>>> CONFIDENTIAL
>>>
>>> Dear Albert,
>>>
>>> Today at about 11:45 I think, I received a phone call fro Commander John
>>> King
>>> from Police Headquarters here in Launceston, who was calling me on your
>>> instigation. He was calling me in regard to an email I sent to you, copied
>>> to
>>> Records and attached below, to do with accountability at Launceston City
>>> Council.
>>>
>>> Allegedly you have raised a concern with Commander King in regard to my
>>> reference to the word ³murder² in the paragraph highlighted in maroon below.
>>> If so, ³murder² is clearly and unambiguously used as a metaphor and it would
>>> be drawing a very long bow indeed to contextualise it in any other way. In
>>> fact, as I explained to Commander King, Saturday night TV serially provides
>>> us
>>> with the substance for the metaphor, and for it in this context to be ready
>>> and waiting is totally unsurprising. That it turned out to be the handiest
>>> one available should be no surprise at all to anyone engaged with
>>> contemporary
>>> cultural sensibilities ­ least of all yourself.
>>>
>>> I find your actions in this instance outrageous. In fact there is a likely
>>> implication that you have anticipated the course of action you set in train
>>> and that you were entirely comfortable with any threat I might perceive in
>>> regard to receiving the Commander¹s call. Indeed, I am more than angered by
>>> your actions. If you found my metaphor untoward you might have taken that up
>>> with me directly and personal as the hard evidence of my using it was hardly
>>> going to melt away.
>>>
>>> Instead, I believe I have the right to perceive your alternative actions as
>>> an
>>> attempt to frighten me off and an attempt to dissuade me calling upon my
>>> unfortunate personal experiences with LCC to hold you accountable in a
>>> general
>>> way.
>>>
>>> If I were to draw the inference that your actions might have been designed
>>> to
>>> be threatening I believe there is sufficient circumstantial evidence to
>>> support that belief. If it wasn¹t your intention then I believe an apology
>>> is
>>> in order. I am still waiting for a response, an acknowledgement even, of my
>>> earlier email an I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest
>>> convenience.
>>>
>>> Regards,
>>>
>>> Ray
>>>
>>> Ray Norman
>>> <zingHOUSEunlimited>
>>> The lifestyle design enterprise and research network
>>> <image.png>
>>> PH: 03-6334 2176
>>> EMAIL 1:
>>>
raynorman@eftel.net.au<mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net
.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel
>>>
.net.au<http://net.au>><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.ne
t.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.
>>>
net.au<http://net.au><http://net.au><http://net.au>><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.
au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel
>>> .net.au<http://net.au>>
>>> EMAIL 2:
>>>
ray@7250.net<mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mail
to:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><
>>> mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@72
>>> 50.net<http://50.net>>
>>> 40 Delamere Crescent Trevallyn TAS. 7250
>>> WEBsite: http://www.raynorman7250.blogspot.com
>>> NOTICE: this message, and any attachments, may contain privileged and
>>> confidential information intended for
>>> the exclusive use of the addressee named above. If you are not the intended
>>> recipient of this message you must not
>>> disseminate, copy or take any action in relation to the message. If you have
>>> received this message in error,
>>> please immediately notify the sender at the above address and delete all
>>> copies of the message
>>> The information in this email is absolutely confidential and
>>> commercial-in-confidence
>>> protocols apply to that information that may have a commercial application.
>>>
>>> Furthermore, the intellectual property rights of the author(s) apply in
>>> accord
>>> with Australian Copyright and Moral Rights Laws.
>>>
>>> Forwarded Message
>>> From: Ray Norman
>>>
<raynorman@eftel.net.au<mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.ne
t.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@efte
>>>
l.net.au<http://l.net.au>><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel
.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel
>>>
.net.au<http://net.au><http://net.au><http://net.au>><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net
.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@efte
>>> l.net.au<http://l.net.au>>>
>>> Date: Fri, 26 Sep 2014 15:48:49 +1000
>>> To: Mayor
>>>
<Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au<mailto:Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:Mayor@la
unceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:Mayo
>>>
r@launceston.tas.gov.au<mailto:r@launceston.tas.gov.au>><mailto:Mayor@launceston
.tas.gov.au><mailto:Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:Mayor
>>>
@launceston.tas.gov.au<http://launceston.tas.gov.au><http://launceston.tas.gov.a
u><http://launceston.tas.gov.au>><mailto:Mayor@launcesto
>>>
n.tas.gov.au<http://n.tas.gov.au>><mailto:Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:Ma
yor@launceston.tas.gov.au>>
>>> Cc: LCC Records
>>>
<records@launceston.tas.gov.au<mailto:records@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:reco
rds@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:records@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:
>>>
records@launceston.tas.gov.au<mailto:records@launceston.tas.gov.au>><mailto:reco
rds@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:records@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:><mailto
:>>> r
> <mailto:r%0b><mailto:r%0b><mailto:r%0b><mailto:r%0b> >>
>
ecords@launceston.tas.gov.au<mailto:ecords@launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:ecords@
launceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:ecords@launceston.tas.gov.au>><mailto:reco
>
rds@launceston.tas.gov.au<mailto:rds@launceston.tas.gov.au>><mailto:records@laun
ceston.tas.gov.au><mailto:records@launceston.tas.gov.au>>
>>> Subject: Accountability & LCC
>>>
>>> Dear Albert,
>>>
>>> As each day passes I¹m exposed to yet another suggestion that Launceston
>>> City
>>> Council is confronting serious problems to do with workplace safety and more
>>> still. As you will recall I have personal experience relevant to all this,
>>> so
>>> I speak with some authenticity here.
>>>
>>> When you wrote to me on August 22 you confirmed that Council conducted an
>>> ³independent investigation in relation to an allegation of bullying acting
>>> upon the legal advice received ³ and that you were ³unable to provide any
>>> further information to [me] on this matter². Clearly, you were attempting to
>>> choose your words well enough to avoid any further scrutiny and that you at
>>> that time were more unwilling than unable. Nonetheless, you have access to
>>> all
>>> the information your constituency needs to make important and informed
>>> decisions about at the upcoming elections ­ decision that will have
>>> consequences for four years.
>>>
>>> I¹m now putting it to you that your constituency is actually relying upon:
>>>
>>> * Your accountability;
>>> * Your moral integrity; and
>>> * Your leadership;
>>>
>>> perhaps more than at any time that you have held the position of Mayor.
>>>
>>> Might I remind you that if there is a murder enquiry in train the public has
>>> >> a
>>> right to know that it is in train and that certain ³allegations² have been
>>> made on the grounds that ³the public has a right to know² ­ mainly for their
>>> own protection.
>>>
>>> If as you said on August 22 ³There was no "cover-up" I believe that your
>>> constituency would be better informed right now than it actually is simply
>>> because the suggestions of a cover-up persist ­ and seemingly relentlessly.
>>> Moreover, they would have the evidence without which suggestions of
>>> impropriety (to say the least!) are ever likely to continue whilst you
>>> remain
>>> silent.
>>>
>>> Indeed I put it to you again, there are in fact cover-ups in train via
>>> obfuscation, bureaucratic cum legalistic humbug and the procedural clouding
>>> of issues. Furthermore with an election about to take place your
>>> constituency
>>> has a right to know just how you/Council are acting ³upon the legal advice
>>> received² ­ and in what context. Also, the Robert A. Heinlein quote strikes
>>> a
>>> particular cord here ... ³The slickest way in the world to lie is to tell
>>> the
>>> right amount of truth at the right time-and then shut up.² as does James
>>> 4:17
>>> ³So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is
>>> sin.²
>>>
>>> What seems to be at stake here goes way beyond politics. Launceston¹s
>>> residents and ratepayers deserve the accountability that is proscribed in
>>> the
>>> Act and you are in a position to provide that accountability. If you do not,
>>> >> I
>>> believe that your constituency has a right to hold you personally
>>> accountable
>>> on the grounds of your omissions.
>>>
>>> Regards
>>>
>>> Ray
>>>
>>> Ray Norman
>>> <zingHOUSEunlimited>
>>> The lifestyle design enterprise and research network
>>> <image.png>
>>> PH: 03-6334 2176
>>> EMAIL 1:
>>>
raynorman@eftel.net.au<mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net
.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel
>>>
.net.au<http://net.au>><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.ne
t.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.
>>>
net.au<http://net.au><http://net.au><http://net.au>><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.
au><mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au><mailto:raynorman@eftel
>>> .net.au<http://net.au>>
>>> EMAIL 2:
>>>
ray@7250.net<mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mail
to:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><
>>> mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@7250.net><mailto:ray@72
>>> 50.net<http://50.net>>
>>> 40 Delamere Crescent Trevallyn TAS. 7250
>>> WEBsite: http://www.raynorman7250.blogspot.com
>>> NOTICE: this message, and any attachments, may contain privileged and
>>> confidential information intended for
>>> the exclusive use of the addressee named above. If you are not the intended
>>> recipient of this message you must not
>>> disseminate, copy or take any action in relation to the message. If you have
>>> received this message in error,
>>> please immediately notify the sender at the above address and delete all
>>> copies of the message
>>> The information in this email is absolutely confidential and
>>> commercial-in-confidence
>>> protocols apply to that information that may have a commercial application.
>>>
>>> Furthermore, the intellectual property rights of the author(s) apply in
>>> accord
>>> with Australian Copyright and Moral Rights Laws.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> [http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/twitter.png]<https://twit
>>> t>>
>>> <http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/twitter.png%5d%3chttps:/t
>>> witt%3e%3e><http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/twitter.png%5d
>>> %3chttps:/twitt%3e%3e> e
>>>
r.com/LtonCityCouncil<http://r.com/LtonCityCouncil><http://r.com/LtonCityCouncil
><http://r.com/LtonCityCouncil><http://r.com/LtonCityCou
>>> ncil><http://r.com/LtonCityCouncil><http://r.com/LtonCityCouncil>>
>>> [http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/youtube.png]
>>>
<http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/youtube.png%5d><http://api.la
unceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/youtube.png%5d><http://ap
>>> i.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/youtube.png%5d>
>>>
<http://www.youtube.com/user/LauncestonCtyCouncil><http://www.youtube.com/user/L
auncestonCtyCouncil><http://www.youtube.com/us
>>> er/LauncestonCtyCouncil><http://www.youtube.com/use
>>> r/LauncestonCtyCouncil>
>>> [http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/www.png]
>>>
<http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/www.png%5d><http://api.launce
ston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/www.png%5d><http://api.la
>>>
unceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/www.png%5d<http://unceston.tas.gov.au/eCard
/disclaimer/www.png%5d>>
>>>
<http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au><http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au><http://www.
launceston.tas.gov.au><http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au><http://
>>>
www.launceston.tas.gov.au<http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au>><http://www.launcest
on.tas.gov.au><http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au>
>>> [http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/LCC_YVYL.png]
>>>
<http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/LCC_YVYL.png%5d><http://api.l
aunceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/LCC_YVYL.png%5d><http://a
>>> pi.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/LCC_YVYL.png%5d>
>>>
<http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.au/><http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.au/>
<http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.
>>> au/><http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.a
>>> u/>
>>> LAUNCESTON
>>> Named Australia's most family friendly city by Suncorp 2013.
>>> Named Tasmania's top eTown by Google 2013.
>>> Home to Harvest Launceston, named Australia's Best Harvest Market by ABC
>>> Delicious magazine 2013.
>>> Home to City Park, named in Australia's top ten parks by TripAdvisor 2013.
>>> Keep Australia Beautiful - Community Action and Partnerships 2013
>>> Tasmanian Tourism Award - Visitor Information and Services 2013
>>> LGAT General Excellence Award - State of the Art Launceston Visitor
>>> Information Centre 2013
>>>
>>> Please consider the environment before printing this, or any other e-mail or
>>> document.
>>>
>>> ________________________________________
>>> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER
>>>
>>> Information in this transmission is intended only for the person(s) to whom
>>> it
>>> is addressed and may contain privileged and/or confidential information. If
>>> you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying or dissemination
>>> of the information is unauthorised and you should delete/destroy all copies
>>> and notify the sender. No liability is accepted for any unauthorised use of
>>> the information contained in this transmission.
>>>
>>> This disclaimer has been automatically added.
>>
>>
>> [http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/twitter.png]<https://twitt
>> e
>> <http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/twitter.png%5d%3chttps:/tw
>> itte><http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/twitter.png%5d%3chttp
>> s:/twitte>
>>
r.com/LtonCityCouncil<http://r.com/LtonCityCouncil><http://r.com/LtonCityCouncil
><http://r.com/LtonCityCouncil>>
>> [http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/youtube.png]
>>
<http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/youtube.png%5d><http://api.la
unceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/youtube.png%5d><http://api
>>
.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/youtube.png%5d<http://launceston.tas.gov
.au/eCard/disclaimer/youtube.png%5d>>
>>
<http://www.youtube.com/user/LauncestonCtyCouncil><http://www.youtube.com/user/L
auncestonCtyCouncil><http://www.youtube.com/use
>> r/LauncestonCtyCouncil>
>> [http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/www.png]
>>
<http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/www.png%5d><http://api.launce
ston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/www.png%5d><http://api.lau
>>
nceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/www.png%5d<http://nceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/d
isclaimer/www.png%5d>>
>>
<http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au><http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au><http://www.
launceston.tas.gov.au><http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au>
>> [http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/LCC_YVYL.png]
>>
<http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/LCC_YVYL.png%5d><http://api.l
aunceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/LCC_YVYL.png%5d><http://ap
>> i.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/LCC_YVYL.png%5d>
>>
<http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.au/><http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.au/>
<http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.a
>> u/>
>> LAUNCESTON
>> Named Australia's most family friendly city by Suncorp 2013.
>> Named Tasmania's top eTown by Google 2013.
>> Home to Harvest Launceston, named Australia's Best Harvest Market by ABC
>> Delicious magazine 2013.
>> Home to City Park, named in Australia's top ten parks by TripAdvisor 2013.
>> Keep Australia Beautiful - Community Action and Partnerships 2013
>> Tasmanian Tourism Award - Visitor Information and Services 2013
>> LGAT General Excellence Award - State of the Art Launceston Visitor
>> Information Centre 2013
>>
>> Please consider the environment before printing this, or any other e-mail or
>> document.
>>
>> ________________________________________
>> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER
>>
>> Information in this transmission is intended only for the person(s) to whom
>> it
>> is addressed and may contain privileged and/or confidential information. If
>> you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying or dissemination
>> of the information is unauthorised and you should delete/destroy all copies
>> and notify the sender. No liability is accepted for any unauthorised use of
>> the information contained in this transmission.
>>
>> This disclaimer has been automatically added.
>>
>
> <https://twitter.com/LtonCityCouncil>
>
<http://www.youtube.com/user/LauncestonCtyCouncil><http://www.youtube.com/user/L
auncestonCtyCouncil><http://www.youtube.com/user
> /LauncestonCtyCouncil>
>
<http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au><http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au><http://www.
launceston.tas.gov.au><http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au>
>
<http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.au/><http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.au/>
<http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.au
> />
> LAUNCESTON
> Named Australia's most family friendly city by Suncorp 2013.
> Named Tasmania's top eTown by Google 2013.
> Home to Harvest Launceston, named Australia's Best Harvest Market by ABC
> Delicious magazine 2013.
> Home to City Park, named in Australia's top ten parks by TripAdvisor 2013.
> Keep Australia Beautiful - Community Action and Partnerships 2013
> Tasmanian Tourism Award - Visitor Information and Services 2013
> LGAT General Excellence Award - State of the Art Launceston Visitor
> Information Centre 2013
>
> Please consider the environment before printing this, or any other e-mail or
> document.
>
> ________________________________________
> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER
>
> Information in this transmission is intended only for the person(s) to whom it
> is addressed and may contain privileged and/or confidential information. If
> you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying or dissemination
> of the information is unauthorised and you should delete/destroy all copies
> and notify the sender. No liability is accepted for any unauthorised use of
> the information contained in this transmission.
>
> This disclaimer has been automatically added.
>
>
> [http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/twitter.png]<https://twitte
> r.com/LtonCityCouncil<http://r.com/LtonCityCouncil>>
> [http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/youtube.png]
>
<http://www.youtube.com/user/LauncestonCtyCouncil><http://www.youtube.com/user/L
auncestonCtyCouncil>
> [http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/www.png]
> <http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au><http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au>
> [http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/LCC_YVYL.png]
>
<http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.au/><http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.au/>
> LAUNCESTON
> Named Australia's most family friendly city by Suncorp 2013.
> Named Tasmania's top eTown by Google 2013.
> Home to Harvest Launceston, named Australia's Best Harvest Market by ABC
> Delicious magazine 2013.
> Home to City Park, named in Australia's top ten parks by TripAdvisor 2013.
> Keep Australia Beautiful - Community Action and Partnerships 2013
> Tasmanian Tourism Award - Visitor Information and Services 2013
> LGAT General Excellence Award - State of the Art Launceston Visitor
> Information Centre 2013
>
> Please consider the environment before printing this, or any other e-mail or
> document.
>
> ________________________________________
> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER
>
> Information in this transmission is intended only for the person(s) to whom it
> is addressed and may contain privileged and/or confidential information. If
> you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying or dissemination
> of the information is unauthorised and you should delete/destroy all copies
> and notify the sender. No liability is accepted for any unauthorised use of
> the information contained in this transmission.
>
> This disclaimer has been automatically added.


[http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/twitter.png]<https://twit
ter.com/LtonCityCouncil>
[http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/youtube.png]
<http://www.youtube.com/user/LauncestonCtyCouncil>
[http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/www.png]
<http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au>
[http://api.launceston.tas.gov.au/eCard/disclaimer/LCC_YVYL.png]
<http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.au/>
LAUNCESTON
Named Australia's most family friendly city by Suncorp 2013.
Named Tasmania's top eTown by Google 2013.
Home to Harvest Launceston, named Australia's Best Harvest Market by ABC
Delicious magazine 2013.
Home to City Park, named in Australia's top ten parks by TripAdvisor 2013.
Keep Australia Beautiful - Community Action and Partnerships 2013
Tasmanian Tourism Award - Visitor Information and Services 2013
LGAT General Excellence Award - State of the Art Launceston Visitor
Information Centre 2013

Please consider the environment before printing this, or any other e-mail or
document.

________________________________________
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER

Information in this transmission is intended only for the person(s) to whom
it is addressed and may contain privileged and/or confidential information.
If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying or
dissemination of the information is unauthorised and you should
delete/destroy all copies and notify the sender. No liability is accepted
for any unauthorised use of the information contained in this transmission.

This disclaimer has been automatically added.


------ End of Forwarded Message

FW: URGENT & CONFIDENTIAL: A Matter of Concern

Forwarded Message
From: Mayor <Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au>
Date: Fri, 22 Aug 2014 03:27:46 +0000
To: Ray Norman <raynorman@eftel.net.au>
Subject: RE: URGENT & CONFIDENTIAL: A Matter of Concern

Hi Ray
 
I confirm the Council did conduct an independent investigation in relation to an allegation of bullying acting upon the legal advice received.  Council acted on the recommendations made.  There was no "cover-up".  This, as you can well understand, is a legal matter and I am unable to provide any further information to you on this matter.  Thank you for your concerns.
 
Kind regards
 

Albert van Zetten I Mayor I Launceston City Council
T 03 6323 3101 I F 03 6323 3125 I www.launceston.tas.gov.au <http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au/>


From: Ray Norman [mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au]
Sent: Thursday, 21 August 2014 2:03 PM
To: Mayor; Alderman Jeremy Ball
Subject: URGENT & CONFIDENTIAL: A Matter of Concern

CONFIDENTIAL
Dear Albert & Jeremy,

Yesterday I received a phone call during which I was informed of an alleged “cover-up” of bullying going on within Council’s administration. Given my personal experience recently of being defamed, threatened and discriminated against I have to at least wounder about the veracity of this claim. Why? Well despite clear evidence that what I personally experienced was inappropriate, and despite seeking acknowledgement of that, and some form of redress, neither has been offered me. That Council might indeed be a more toxic environment and workplace than I have experienced does seem plausible in this context.

Indeed gaining acknowledgement of the veracity of an issue is something I’ve experienced considerable difficulty with over time with LCC. I’ve been patronised and informed that I’m entitled to my beliefs which in the end is of no assistance whatsoever in arriving at some kind satisfactory outcome.

With the eve of Council elections upon us the question of accountability, and its functionality, does arise. How can ratepayers and residents be assured that Launceston City Council is indeed a trustworthy administration taking best possible care of community assets if Aldermen are prepared to try and cover-up the extent of toxicity prevailing under their watch?

I write to give you the opportunity to give me good reason as to why I should not draw my own concerns and experiences  to the appropriate authorities at this time. I look forward to your earliest possible response.

Regards,

Ray

Ray Norman
<zingHOUSEunlimited>
The lifestyle design enterprise and research network

PH: 03-6334 2176
EMAIL 1: raynorman@eftel.net.au <mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au>
40 Delamere Crescent Trevallyn TAS. 7250
WEBsite: http://www.raynorman7250.blogspot.com <http://www.raynorman7250.blogspot.com>
NOTICE: this message, and any attachments, may contain privileged and confidential information intended for
the exclusive use of the addressee named above. If you are not the intended recipient of this message you must not
disseminate, copy or take any action in relation to the message. If you have received this message in error,
please immediately notify the sender at the above address and delete all copies of the message
The information in this email is absolutely confidential and commercial-in-confidence
 protocols apply to that information that may have a commercial application.

Furthermore, the intellectual property rights of the author(s) apply in accord with Australian Copyright and Moral Rights Laws.

 <https://twitter.com/LtonCityCouncil>  <http://www.youtube.com/user/LauncestonCtyCouncil>  <http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au>  <http://yourvoiceyourlaunceston.com.au/>

LAUNCESTON
Named Australia's most family friendly city by Suncorp 2013.
Named Tasmania's top eTown by Google 2013.
Home to Harvest Launceston, named Australia's Best Harvest Market by ABC Delicious magazine 2013.
Home to City Park, named in Australia's top ten parks by TripAdvisor 2013.
Keep Australia Beautiful - Community Action and Partnerships 2013
Tasmanian Tourism Award - Visitor Information and Services 2013
LGAT General Excellence Award - State of the Art Launceston Visitor Information Centre 2013

Please consider the environment before printing this, or any other e-mail or document.

________________________________________
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER

Information in this transmission is intended only for the person(s) to whom it is addressed and may contain privileged and/or confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying or dissemination of the information is unauthorised and you should delete/destroy all copies and notify the sender. No liability is accepted for any unauthorised use of the information contained in this transmission.

This disclaimer has been automatically added.


------ End of Forwarded Message

FW: QVMAG Acquisition, Deaccession Policies & Future Directions

Forwarded Message
From: Mayor <Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au>
Date: Fri, 22 Aug 2014 03:34:48 +0000
To: "Ray Norman (raynorman@eftel.net.au)" <raynorman@eftel.net.au>
Subject: QVMAG Acquisition,  Deaccession Policies & Future Directions

Hi Ray

Attached is letter in response to email below.

Kind regards


Albert van Zetten I Mayor I Launceston City Council
T 03 6323 3101 I F 03 6323 3125 I www.launceston.tas.gov.au <http://www.launceston.tas.gov.au/>


From: Ray Norman [mailto:raynorman@eftel.net.au]
Sent: Monday, 18 August 2014 3:33 PM
To: [MGAB]_1
Subject: FW: AGAIN: QVMAG Acquisition, Deaccession Policies & Future Directions

FYI ONLY
NO ACTION ANTICIPATABLE
Forwarded Message
From: Ray Norman <raynorman@eftel.net.au>
Date: Sat, 16 Aug 2014 15:42:01 +1000
To: Mayor <Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au>
Cc: LCC Records <records@launceston.tas.gov.au>, Richard Mulvaney <Richard.Mulvaney@launceston.tas.gov.au>
Subject: AGAIN: QVMAG Acquisition,  Deaccession Policies & Future Directions

TO: Mayor & Aldermen,

I had hoped to have at least received an acknowledgement of the receipt of this letter. Moreover, some acknowledgement of the significance of the matters raised and advice on what action/s if any are being considered would also have been appropriate by now I believe.

As the QVMAG’s Trustees, it is disappointing to see the custodians of collections allegedly valued at $230 million plus treating a matter like this with such scant regard. It’s especially so as it is a matter that falls totally within Council’s/Aldermen’s  bailiwick given that is a policy matter – and a matter to do with ’trust’. It’s matter clearly outside management’s operational  responsibilities and authority except in an advisory capacity.

Undoubtedly there needs to be wider advice sought from within the field given the weight of responsibility falling to Aldermen – the custodians of approx 23% of Tasmania’s cultural assets. And, given that Council is seeking a change in State Govt. funding to protect ratepayers from further imposts, I imagined that there would be some urgency exercised in regard to matters such as this.

Furthermore, against the background that the Auditor General has already raised concerns about the collection’s administration, and the adequacy of its records, I am concerned that this matter seems to be regarded in such a cavalier manner. The most concerning thing is that it appears that action here somehow seems to be regarded as being discretionary.

Again, I look forward to your early advice.

Regards,

Ray Norman

Ray Norman  |<zingHOUSEunlimited> | PH: 03-6334 2176 | EMAIL: raynorman@eftel.net.au |40 Delamere Crescent Trevallyn TAS. 7250


A research network dedicated to developing more inclusive 21st C understandings & imaginings of place
Prof. Bill Boyd: Review Editor & Project Coordinator
Ray Norman : Director & Project Coordinator (Tasmania)
eMAIL: nudgelbar-tas@7250.net
BLOG: http://thenudgelbahinstitute.blogspot.com.au/
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http://auditingplacedness.blogspot.com.au/

Forwarded Message
From: Ray Norman <raynorman@eftel.net.au>
Date: Fri, 08 Aug 2014 16:25:11 +1000
To: Mayor <Mayor@launceston.tas.gov.au>
Cc: Richard Mulvaney <Richard.Mulvaney@launceston.tas.gov.au>
Subject: QVMAG Acquisition,  Deaccession Policies & Future Directions

TO:  MAYOR & ALDERMEN

Sometime during August last year, and again earlier this year, I asked both the Director and the General Manager about the QVMAG’s Acquisition and Deaccession Policy and its relevance to world’s best practice. I was informed that two past policies – Acquisition &  Deaccession – had been combined to form a single policy document. I have been provided with a copy of this combined document dated June 2013 that I understand to be still in its draft form a year on.

I believe that this draft falls well short of  best practice on the grounds that:

1. Given that it is a  policy document it needed to have been initiated by the Trustees/Aldermen with a set timeframe and in fact it has initiated by QVMAG’s management without any hint of there being an expected completion date  – albeit that management may need to have an input;
2. It appears to be founded on an outdated(?) policy document that should have been approved by the Trustees/Aldermen but it appears that it was not. By extension, this means  that the new draft also lacks accountability at the outset;
3. From the perspective of collection development, it should be definite and relevant to current understandings in museology and cultural practice but it is ambiguous and anarchic;
4. From the perspective current cultural understandings it should reflect current understandings in it's drafting but it is a poor representation of current museum practice and cultural theory;
5. The criteria for the inclusion of scientific material in the collections should be specificic but the draft is somewhat ambiguous and far too open to interpretation;
6. In respect to deaccession, the processes documented should reflect best practice in museology and accountability but it falls short of that and specifically so in regard to accountability;
7. In respect to deaccession, the methodologies in regard to determining ‘value’ should be multidimensional – cultural, social, scientific & fiscal –  whereas value is projected as  being entirely money based – and based on inappropriately low amounts;
8. In respect to either the accessioning or deaccessioning of a collection item/object the decision-making should rest with the Trustees/Aldermen, where accountability actually rests, but it is entirely, an inappropriately, placed in the hands of management.

Given that a museum’s and/or art gallery’s most important policy is its:

1. Accession Policy in that it determines how recurrent, acquisition and project funding, will be employed thus ensuring the institution's integrity and ability to meet its purpose;
2. Deaccession Policy in so much as it ensures that there is true accountability to its funders and donors – government, corporate & private – in accord with ethical standards; and
3. On the evidence provided by the draft document the QVMAG’s policy/s in regard Accession and Deaccession arguably falls well short of the appropriate professional standards the institution should be upholding.

Questions arising:

1. When will LCC, as the QVMAG’s Trustees, move to ensure that the institution’s Acquisition and Deaccession Policies meet professional and best practice standards, ideally world’s best practice?
2. What advice will LCC seek and/or rely upon to ensure that the policies do indeed have currency and at the same time meet best practice standards?
3. What importance do the Trustees/Aldermen place upon these policies meeting best practice in a national or international context?
4. What does the Council need to do to initiate an appropriate audit to ensure that best practices are adheared to and credible accountability is in place in regard to collections allededly valued at $230 million plus?
5. In the context of seeking additional State Government funding for the QVMAG:

   * What action is Council taking to regularise the QVMAG’s operational model relevant to best practice in museology looking ahead to higher levels of accountability?
    * What processes has Council put in place to ensure the protection of the QVMAG’s collections and programming looking ahead to potential funding constraints?
    * What advice is Council going to rely upon in negotiating new relationships between the QVMAG, other regional musingplaces,the Sate Government and other funding agencies?

I look forward to Council’s early advice given recent developments in Tasmania relevant to musingplace funding and their accountability.

Regards,

Ray Norman

Ray Norman
<zingHOUSEunlimited>
The lifestyle design enterprise and research network

PH: 03-6334 2176
EMAIL 1: raynorman@eftel.net.au
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