TIGERS Rozelle Development

[Byron_Bay_Fan]

Benjirific:
I think the fact they had to print an apology says everything that needs to be said about this story - they don't apologise/retract lightly.

I wouldn't take too much of it seriously, from memory the club put out a statement the next week refuting the majority of the claims.
–-----------------------

But the apology only concerns one person and one aspect? So the rest holds up presumably.

 

[jirskyr]

Not saying Benny is clear of dodgy dealings, as many property developers do whatever they can, say whatever needs said to get a deal across the line, a deal usually greatly in their own favour.

But the account says nothing of the council and govt's involvement in the whole ordeal. The club did not anticipate, in restructuring debts with Rozelle Village, that the saga would drag on this long.

Yes it stinks to build up large debts to private backers, but the club would have gone under much earlier. The extended length of debts is most of the problem.

 

[Byron_Bay_Fan]

Old news I know but Darcy does make sense…
\
\
In response to today's decision by administrators of the Balmain Tigers to hold a rally, on March 2nd, in support of skyscrapers in Rozelle, Leichhardt Mayor Darcy Byrne has released an open letter to Club members warning them against being exploited by developers.

SEE OPEN LETTER TO TIGERS MEMBERS AND SUPPORTERS BELOW.

“Rozelle Village and its part owner Benny Elias, are playing on the passions of Tigers fans for financial gain” Councillor Byrne said.

“I’m a passionate supporter of the Tigers and it is simply exploitation of the fans for the Club to organise a rally while the developers still refuse to give any written guarantee that the club will have a permanent home in the new development.

“As it stands, this redevelopment will deliver huge profits for Mr Elias and his mates, but not a single dollar for the club” said Cr Byrne.

Investigations by journalists have unearthed evidence that the Club is paying above market interest rates and excessive administration fees on a loan from Rozelle Village that has forced the Tigers into millions of dollars of debt.

“It’s time for Club administrators to clearly explain to members why they should support a deal that has so few benefits for the Club" said Cr Byrne.

“I will continue to fight for a sensible redevelopment that allows the leagues club to return to Rozelle and for the Tigers to continue to play at their spiritual home of Leichhardt Oval.”

ENDS

Media contact: Darcy Byrne - 0404528277
\
\
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AN OPEN LETTER TO TIGERS FANS

I write to you not as the Mayor of Leichhardt but as a lifelong supporter of the mighty Balmain Tigers. When he passed away my father wanted his ashes scattered at Leichhardt Oval. Like so many of you, support for the Tigers is part of our family tradition.

That is why I am so concerned with how the Club's loyal supporters are being exploited and misled by international developers Rozelle Village. The Club’s administrators are now asking you to turn out for a rally to support the skyscraper proposal in Rozelle. Before giving them your
support you deserve answers to these questions.

1\. Why won't Rozelle Village provide a written guarantee that the Leagues Club can have a permanent home in their skyscrapers?

The developers claim to be ‘bringing the Tigers home’ but at this stage the Club will only be given a temporary space for 15 years, while paying full commercial rents. A fair deal would see the Club given a 100 year lease - rent free!

2\. Why will the Club not receive a cent from the development while Benny Elias and his partners make millions?

Our Club will not receive any cash payment if the development proceeds despite the fact that the developers admit they stand to make hundreds of millions of dollars in profit. This is in stark contrast to the deal negotiated by Cronulla Leagues Club for their redevelopment that
guarantees them a share of the profits and long term financial security. Media reports suggest Rozelle Village has already received hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest repayments from our Club.

3\. Why is Eddie Obeid dragging our proud Club's name through the mud?

Being a Tiger is about having integrity. It has been revealed at the ICAC hearings that Eddie Obeid has been lobbying behind closed doors to have the skyscrapers approved. Why is he involved? Now his business associate Nick Di Girolamo has been appointed Chairman of Wests Tigers. Surely our Club should keep as far away as possible from Eddie Obeid and his mates.

4\. Why skyscrapers?

**The developer already has a rezoning from Leichhardt Council that would allow them to build up to 12 storeys, they could bring in an application tomorrow that would be approved**. Why are they insisting on having a development so big it has been opposed by Roads and Maritime services and does not comply with a single one of the State Government's planning controls? Through their greed Rozelle Village have alienated the vast majority of local residents including many of the Club's most loyal supporters. The very people the Club will depend on when it returns.

5\. Is the current Club Administration planning to walk away from Leichhardt Oval?

We have been told this monstrous proposal is about bringing the boys home but at the same time the Wests Tigers administrators have suggested this will be our last year playing at Leichhardt Oval. Why are they willing to lobby so hard for the profits of Benny and his mates while walking away from our spiritual home without a fight?

Every loyal member and supporter of our Club deserves answers to these questions before we put our trust in Rozelle Village. Otherwise we are just being exploited.

Yours sincerely,
Darcy Byrne
Mayor of Leichhardt

I have read earlier here how Mr Darcy's motives have been questioned, that is if he is just playing politics etc. but is anything actually wrong in his statement or has an incorrect slant? Was it correct that a 12 storey building was allowed? If so seems sufficiently generous.

 

[hammertime]

I have read earlier here how Mr Darcy's motives have been questioned, that is if he is just playing politics etc. but is anything actually wrong in his statement or has an incorrect slant? Was it correct that a 12 storey building was allowed? If so seems sufficiently generous.

That's funny actually, because that's what the developer has proposed in the recent submission. But Leichhardt council moved the goalposts yet again - I think it's down to 8 stories now. They were against the latest proposal - specifically Darcy, but now because the Tigers weren't getting free rent.

They keep making up new stuff mate. I don't like the developer/development in particular, but Darcy certainly has helped dig the whole for them. I certainly wouldn't want to set up a business in the area - I know a few of the pubs had issues years ago too from silly stuff from the council.

This might help shed a bit more light on a few omissions from ol Darcy.

http://www.tigers.org.au/index.php/venues/balmain/whys-it-taking-so-long/the-planning-process/

 

[Byron_Bay_Fan]

I am an atheist but all I can say is Lord have mercy on Balmain Tigers

thanks for reference most enlightening

 

[Go_Moltzen]

Old news I know but Darcy does make sense…
\
\
In response to today's decision by administrators of the Balmain Tigers to hold a rally, on March 2nd, in support of skyscrapers in Rozelle, Leichhardt Mayor Darcy Byrne has released an open letter to Club members warning them against being exploited by developers.

SEE OPEN LETTER TO TIGERS MEMBERS AND SUPPORTERS BELOW.

“Rozelle Village and its part owner Benny Elias, are playing on the passions of Tigers fans for financial gain” Councillor Byrne said.

“I’m a passionate supporter of the Tigers and it is simply exploitation of the fans for the Club to organise a rally while the developers still refuse to give any written guarantee that the club will have a permanent home in the new development.

“As it stands, this redevelopment will deliver huge profits for Mr Elias and his mates, but not a single dollar for the club” said Cr Byrne.

Investigations by journalists have unearthed evidence that the Club is paying above market interest rates and excessive administration fees on a loan from Rozelle Village that has forced the Tigers into millions of dollars of debt.

“It’s time for Club administrators to clearly explain to members why they should support a deal that has so few benefits for the Club" said Cr Byrne.

“I will continue to fight for a sensible redevelopment that allows the leagues club to return to Rozelle and for the Tigers to continue to play at their spiritual home of Leichhardt Oval.”

ENDS

Media contact: Darcy Byrne - 0404528277
\
\
\
AN OPEN LETTER TO TIGERS FANS

I write to you not as the Mayor of Leichhardt but as a lifelong supporter of the mighty Balmain Tigers. When he passed away my father wanted his ashes scattered at Leichhardt Oval. Like so many of you, support for the Tigers is part of our family tradition.

That is why I am so concerned with how the Club's loyal supporters are being exploited and misled by international developers Rozelle Village. The Club’s administrators are now asking you to turn out for a rally to support the skyscraper proposal in Rozelle. Before giving them your
support you deserve answers to these questions.

1\. Why won't Rozelle Village provide a written guarantee that the Leagues Club can have a permanent home in their skyscrapers?

The developers claim to be ‘bringing the Tigers home’ but at this stage the Club will only be given a temporary space for 15 years, while paying full commercial rents. A fair deal would see the Club given a 100 year lease - rent free!

2\. Why will the Club not receive a cent from the development while Benny Elias and his partners make millions?

Our Club will not receive any cash payment if the development proceeds despite the fact that the developers admit they stand to make hundreds of millions of dollars in profit. This is in stark contrast to the deal negotiated by Cronulla Leagues Club for their redevelopment that
guarantees them a share of the profits and long term financial security. Media reports suggest Rozelle Village has already received hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest repayments from our Club.

3\. Why is Eddie Obeid dragging our proud Club's name through the mud?

Being a Tiger is about having integrity. It has been revealed at the ICAC hearings that Eddie Obeid has been lobbying behind closed doors to have the skyscrapers approved. Why is he involved? Now his business associate Nick Di Girolamo has been appointed Chairman of Wests Tigers. Surely our Club should keep as far away as possible from Eddie Obeid and his mates.

4\. Why skyscrapers?

**The developer already has a rezoning from Leichhardt Council that would allow them to build up to 12 storeys, they could bring in an application tomorrow that would be approved**. Why are they insisting on having a development so big it has been opposed by Roads and Maritime services and does not comply with a single one of the State Government's planning controls? Through their greed Rozelle Village have alienated the vast majority of local residents including many of the Club's most loyal supporters. The very people the Club will depend on when it returns.

5\. Is the current Club Administration planning to walk away from Leichhardt Oval?

We have been told this monstrous proposal is about bringing the boys home but at the same time the Wests Tigers administrators have suggested this will be our last year playing at Leichhardt Oval. Why are they willing to lobby so hard for the profits of Benny and his mates while walking away from our spiritual home without a fight?

Every loyal member and supporter of our Club deserves answers to these questions before we put our trust in Rozelle Village. Otherwise we are just being exploited.

Yours sincerely,
Darcy Byrne
Mayor of Leichhardt

I have read earlier here how Mr Darcy's motives have been questioned, that is if he is just playing politics etc. but is anything actually wrong in his statement or has an incorrect slant? Was it correct that a 12 storey building was allowed? If so seems sufficiently generous.

Leichhardt Council does not always stand in the way of progress & stubbornly vote against building developments. Last Tuesday night (Dec 8, 2015) Leichhardt Mayor Darcy Byrne & Councillors voted to seek NSW government funding to house Syrian refugees at Callan Park in Rozelle.
It will be a humane act to shield these refugees away from the war-zone that used to be Balmain Leagues Club. Perhaps Leichhardt Council will use this land to erect a new one storey prayer hall.

 

[Byron_Bay_Fan]

On condition that the state govt make the BLC completely habitable again the refugees are welcome to use for a year. After they leave surely the New Agers can come in and burn incense to drive out any foreign demons and re-establish Karma so the pokies will give jackpots at least some times.

 

[hammertime]

Wow. Possible game changer!

Despite Ian Wright being an absolute goose and throwing up 20 levels again, it might have a slim chance to save Balmain Leagues (although, very slim..)

Would require State Govt to step up though and help them after the mess they've dragged them through.

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/news/the-state-government-is-looking-to-resurrect-the-controversial-rozelle-metro-station-which-was-shelved-by-the-labor-after-spending-half-a-billion-dollars/story-fngr8gwi-1227641927214

The State Government is looking to resurrect the controversial Rozelle metro station which was shelved by the Labor after spending half a billion dollars.
32 minutes ago
Deborah FitzGeraldInner West Courier Inner City
>
Residents protesting against the proposal to demolish buildings in Rozelle to build the metro in 2009.
THE former State Labor Government’s controversial Rozelle Metro station could be resurrected under secret plans by the government which had previously criticised the proposal as folly.
>
NSW Transport has written to Leichhardt Council to withhold concurrent development approval on the Rozelle Village site on Victoria Rd because it interferes with plans for the Rozelle Metro.
>
In 2009, the then Labor Government spent $500 million acquiring properties in the area to build an underground metro but was met with fierce opposition by locals and transport advocates.
>
The letter said Transport for NSW had undertaken an assessment on whether the development would have an impact on the CBD Metro corridor.
>
It said the proposed building basement and foundations would impact on the Rozelle Station cavern and concurrent approval for the development could not go ahead.
>
Rozelle Village has been fighting for a decade to get two residential towers on the former Balmain Leagues Club site and had initially been in favour of the Metro which would have solved some of the transport issues surrounding the development.
>
The development application is set to be heard by the Land and Environment Court next week but Transport for NSW’s plans may have thrown another spanner in the works.
>
Rozelle Village developer Ian Wright said the revelation that the Rozelle Metro plan was still alive was extraordinary.
>
“Without a doubt the revelation that the State Government is proceeding with the Rozelle Metro will create a very strong argument for a much larger development on this site,” he said.
>
“The current controls allow for two buildings with heights of just 12 and eight levels. I would expect that a development above a transport hub would have buildings in excess of 20 levels.”
>
Premier Mike Baird announced the government’s plan for a new CBD metro line last month but there was no mention of the failed Rozelle metro station.
>
New metro stations were confirmed for Crows Nest, Victoria Cross (North Sydney), Barangaroo, Martin Place, Pitt St (near Park Street) and underground at Central.
>
When former Liberal Premier Barry O’Farrell announced his government’s 20-year vision for transport in 2012, he slammed the Rozelle metro plan.
>
“Our State has suffered because of shameful waste on transport projects which were never delivered, including the failed Rozelle Metro which saw $500 million down the drain,” the former premier said.
>
Former Labor premier Nathan Rees announced a $4 billion CBD metro line from Central Station to Rozelle in 2008.
>
The State Government has not yet responded to queries about the plan.

 

[Cultured_Bogan]

Oh for God's sake…

 

[innsaneink]

Theyve just announced a new light rail from Westmead through Rosehill and on to Olympic Park….why not continue it all the way to bloody Rozelle and the City?

 

[Cultured_Bogan]

I agree, why not.

Just another chapter about to begin in this bloody circus is all.

 

[angry_ant]

Unbloody believable! 10 years of this crap. I almost feel sorry for the developer now…

 

[hammertime]

Theyve just announced a new light rail from Westmead through Rosehill and on to Olympic Park….why not continue it all the way to bloody Rozelle and the City?

I agree mate. Down vic rd and Lyons rd would be great.

 

[balmain boy]

Latest update from Leslie Glen:

THE CLUB HAS A LEGALLY BINDING RIGHT TO RETURN TO THE ROZELLE SITE UPON APPROVAL OF THE DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION
>
Mr Ian Wright of Rozelle Village Pty Ltd, wrote to the Club in December last year advising that Rozelle Village was waiving all it’s rights in relation to the sunset clause that would have seen the Agreement to Lease terminated. The result of this is that Balmain Leagues Club continues to have a legally binding right to return to the development in Rozelle upon approval of the Development Application, which is now before the Land and Environment Court. A Court decision is expected in April 2016.
>
Leichhardt Mayor, Mr Darcy Byrne, has recently voiced concerns about the Club’s “financial position to move back to Rozelle under the conditions imposed by international developer Rozelle Village”. As Mayor and a life long supporter of the Club, he has every right to raise these concerns.
>
Our Club is still viable today only due to the support given by Rozelle Village after events overtook us, and many other enterprises, during the Global Financial Crisis. This is often overlooked. We have been able to finance our football operations and provide club and social amenities for our members right up to the present day.
>
Rozelle Village froze interest repayments on the Club’s $11m loan in April last year.
>
Due to the success of our two Clubs at Five Dock and, particularly, Sydney Markets, we have improved our financial position whilst still maintaining a high level of services to our members.
>
Recently James Myatt (Chair of the Club’s Finance Committee) and I met with Mr Wright for confidential discussions about a realistic plan for us to manage our financial obligations.
>
I regarded these cordial talks as very positive and constructive.
>
The Board of the Balmain Tigers is determined to continue to fight for the ongoing success of our Club. We share the passion of our members and all our supporters, past and present, throughout Australia, unwavering since 1908.

I still have no idea how the leagues club could survive in Rozelle, especially paying market rate rents (which knowing rent in the area will still be astronomical). With the gentrification of the area a club with a bistro and pokies just won't cut it. We need to own a site with the space to provide a variety of services such as a - a gym, childcare, pet care who knows, on top of a decent restaurant and a range of bars.

Only with the revenue of those other areas could the club survive. Too much competition for the small pokies market of the area these days. If we only have the space to have a few bars and a restaurant (similar to the size previously) it's a dead end.

 

[Abraham]

Okay, so a court decision is due for April 2016.

Yet the club has to meet its financial obligations to the NRL by March 2016.

So the NRL debt cannot be leveraged against any equity in the development, assuming it is approved (March falls before April).

And the article makes it sound like "business as usual" for the club.

I'd like to know what's going on behind the scenes.

 

[krayola]

The main revenue for clubs these days seems to come from pokies right? I'm assuming that's why our Sydney Markets' (at Flemington) club is doing so well. There's nothing else in the area and the demo are people who enjoy gambling.

Do we have that demo. in Rozelle still? Balmain Boy is absolutely right - it's going to need to be a vastly different club to the one before and to the one that exists in Ashfield

 

[Abraham]

The main revenue for clubs these days seems to come from pokies right? I'm assuming that's why our Sydney Markets' (at Flemington) club is doing so well. There's nothing else in the area and the demo are people who enjoy gambling.

Do we have that demo. in Rozelle still? Balmain Boy is absolutely right - it's going to need to be a vastly different club to the one before and to the one that exists in Ashfield

Woooaahhhh there pal !

Don't talk about gambling demographics on here.

You'll be called a racist pig, KKK sympathiser, and neo-Nazi amongst other things.

I made that same mistake once before, so be warned.

Dim Sims anyone?

 

[Basil_Tiger]

And the article makes it sound like "business as usual" for the club.

I'd like to know what's going on behind the scenes.

Yeah,its a mess,my Info. was the meetings with IW were anything but cordial but unless you were in the room its all hearsay at this stage,time will tell.Market value rent in Rozelle will
cripple the Club,it just won't be viable so the Developers are in a win-win situation in the long term no matter what development eventuates.
The whole saga,the Leagues Club fiasco and the current arrangement with the West Tigers is just a shame for a once great Club,at least the current Board are not going down without a fight so i guess thats a positive that offers some hope.

 

[innsaneink]

Thought some may enjoy this old photo, thought this thread best
Victoria Rd & Darling st look down towards the old White Bay power station


 

[innsaneink]

And they reckon players today ave some strange hairdos

Gary Leo?