Tully Tip Byrne ‘Igloo’ building retained by Cassowary Coast council

A passionate 11th hour history lesson has helped shape the decision on an iconic community asset which had been recognised as surplus to ratepayers’ needs and was facing disposal. KNOW THE DECISION

A PASSIONATE 11th hour history lesson has helped save an iconic and controversial community asset which had been recognised as surplus to ratepayers’ needs and was facing disposal.

Cassowary Coast Regional Councillors on Thursday unanimously voted to retain the Tip Byrne Basketball Stadium at Tully, locally known as the “The Igloo”.

It comes after a decision was expected on the building in July last year, but CCRC resolved to defer its call following heavy public backlash on the community icon.

At Thursday’s meeting, council officers had recommended in their asset rationalisation report that the building which attracted a $70,000 bill each year including $35,000 in depreciation, be disposed, and that CCRC help user groups identify new venues for their activities.

The Tip Byrne building, known as The Igloo, at Tully was identified by Cassowary Coast Regional Council for rationalisation. Picture: Arun Singh Mann

But just before the decision went to vote, Division 2 councillor Teresa Millwood recommended an amended motion that would retain the Tully Igloo and engage with the community to develop a masterplan for the Tully Showgrounds area.

“I am a born and bred local and have many memories of the Igloo,” Cr Millwood said.

“The Igloo once stood on the carpark directly across from the council chamber building. It was then relocated some years later to its current site.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Division 2 councillor Teresa Millwood recommended a motion to retain the Tully Igloo, followed by a passionate history lesson at a local government meeting.

“The building has been utilised over the years by many groups, from various sports, debutante balls, weddings and other community functions.

“I have seen the ongoing support from the Tully community to keep this iconic building, and today’s outcome is a great example of how providing feedback to your councillors can help shape outcomes.”

Resident and stalwart supporter of the Tully Igloo, Ron Hunt said he was glad to hear about the outcome.

“I am glad that common sense prevailed- where else would you get an indoor sports stadium of that magnitude in the wettest place in Australia. I’m terribly pleased it went that way.”

Originally published as Tully Tip Byrne ‘Igloo’ building retained by Cassowary Coast council