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Bassendean Councillor Argues Over Sending ‘Prayers’ to Victims

Julian WrightEastern Reporter

AN attempt to replace the word “prayers” from a message to the communities of fire ravaged Waroona and Harvey were quashed at a Town of Bassendean meeting.

When it came time to approving a donation of more than $2800 to the Lord Mayor Disaster Appeal for the South West fire relief efforts, councillor Mike Lewis attempted to amend the message to those affected.

Cr Lewis moved a motion to remove the word “prayers” from the message “(Council) extends its heartfelt sympathy to the families and friends of the deceased, and thoughts and prayers to the communities in the Shires of Waroona and Harvey… ” and replace it with “good wishes”.

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He was unsuccessful.

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“I am not trying to belittle anyone’s faith,” Cr Lewis said.

Mayor John Gangell did not support the removal of the word “prayers,” calling it a “trivial matter”.

“People of faith would want their prayers passed on,” Cr Gangell said.

“I don’t mind additional words (being included).”

More than $800 of the donation came from the Bassendean community, which was collected at the Australia Day event at Ashfield Reserve.