Voice of Byron regulars, Neil Cameron and Ric Wilson, are deeply concerned that Byron Shire Council will turn its attention to Surf Alley in its fervour to paint stripes and patterns over any available surface.
Neil, President of the Byron Bay Boardriders Club, says, “We’re totally against them doing anything with Surf Alley.
“It’s probably the most photographed lane in Byron Bay.
“The backpackers and other holidaymakers are always getting photos with the various scenes on the walls and the honor roll.
“There’s absolutely no need to change anything.
Byron Shire Council are rumored to be set to have Surf Alley painted over.
Ric Wilson shared one of Neil’s posts in Voice of Byron.
“No one has been consulted on this and the Byron Board Riders stand strongly opposed to any work being commenced without our consultation.
The names of two deceased club members are on this wall – Ben Donohoe and Ben King.
“We don’t want anyone touching this alley wall.
Councils artists have already completed a controversial makeover of Lateen Lane, the alley from Jonson to Lawson street behind the National Australia Bank.
The makeover has already caused questions to be asked as to the tendering and funding process for the project.
“What a mess! Are they kidding?” asks Ric.
“Hands off Surf Alley!”
To interfere with Surf alley is to attack the very heart of what being a Byron Bay local is,regardless of time or ties to the town.Any initiative to “stick it to the locals”would be unwise indeed.
Absolutely a huge no no. Surf Alley has meaning to the community and to be blatantly honest makes the other lane look like a hipster wank. IMHO