Social media attack on councillor David Binks sees residents cite support for food options in Gracetown

A social media post taking aim at Shire of Augusta-Margaret River councillor David Binks has backfired. Unhappy Gracetown resident Elizabeth Reed failed to heed the urging of shire councillors in the wake of their contentious decision about food trucks in the coastal hamlet, taking to social media at the weekend to urge ratepayers to vote against the councillor in any future elections. That was due to Cr Binks’ move to join other councillors who supported removing a clause from the policy singling out Gracetown’s only store for protection from mobile food vendors. Councillors including Ian Earl had asked residents to lower the tone of debate after the food trucks issue created a rift between those who wanted to see more dining options on the coast versus those who supported the perceived “monopoly” of Gracies. However, Ms Reed — who was at the July 24 meeting — said Cr Binks would “probably want a Ferris wheel” installed at Gracetown next. Ms Reed posted that Cr Binks was “defeated twice by majority of council on this amendment and put it through . . . a third time which got through”. “Now it’s open slather for food vans at Gracetown instead of protecting Gracies General like he should have done,” Ms Reed said. “Next election . . . do not support councillors that want to turn Gracetown into Venice Beach.” While Cr Binks declined to comment on the remarks, he previously said it was “entirely inappropriate” to favour Gracies in policy development despite being a regular customer himself. The backlash on the social media post showed strong support for more food and coffee options in Gracetown, particularly at night — which was the finding of a survey commissioned by the Gracetown-Cowaramup Bay Community group rejected by Gracies’ defenders. Other residents cited fondness for Gracies but frustration at having few options while visiting the beach. Resident Chloe Alexander said protecting the store was unfair compared to other businesses. “Why is it that Gracies should have the ongoing monopoly of the whole of Gracetown?” she asked. Robyn Chapman and others said a food van at Cowaramup Bay during summer would be welcomed. “From a business perspective it’s called healthy competition which is actually good for business,” resident Michelle Weir said. “You will likely find Gracies’ store actually becomes busier as more people will go to Gracetown as there are more food options.” Other residents noted other operators had existed in Gracetown previously with success, including during the 1990s.