Chris Hosking, Castlemaine
With regard to Mr Braybrook’s missive of ‘What has happened to Castlemaine?’ (Opinions, Mail, June 5, 2026) may I point out the similarities between the upgrade to the Camp Reserve (in its current apparently unsuccessful form) and the bid for poker machines in The Goods Shed; both failed because they were ridiculous, overly ambitious, inappropriate, doomed to failure and very expensive.
The ratepayers outlaid some $800,000 on the Camp planning permit and the Maryborough Highland Society threw away a similar amount only to be told to go away.
Mr Braybrook refers to those willing to take up a fight against foolish proposals and unachievable propositions, as “do gooders” yet I reckon they are passionate about their town.
It can be safely stated that everyone agrees the Camp needs an upgrade but one that will attract funding, is realistic and is likely to transpire.
I am confident that a sensible outcome will be forthcoming for the Camp, just like a sensible outcome was provided by VCAT for the ludicrous notion of 65 poker machines in The Goods Shed; a state-owned heritage listed building.