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Holstein to chair Milligan committee

Cr Chris Holstein has been appointed to chair a Spike Milligan Recognition and Celebration Committee.

The committee will provide advice to Gosford Council on appropriate community-based ways of recognising the life, art practice and connection with the Central Coast of the late Spike Milligan.

Sir Terrance Allan "Spike" Milligan who made his name through the BBC radio program, the Goon Show, died on February 27 aged 83.

Gosford Council sought expressions of interest in the establishment of a Spike Milligan comedy festival earlier this year.

This resulted in 20 submissions being received, according to a staff report to Gosford Council.

"Expressions of interest in membership of the committee represent a range of interests including Milligan associates and fans, leaders of the arts and culture community on the Central Coast, community members and the entertainment industry," the report stated.

"The individuals could be expected to reflect the opinions of a variety of stakeholders.

"Given Spike Milligan's association with Woy Woy, it would be important to have people from that immediate area on the committee."

Expressions of interest came from Peninsula residents Mr John Scholes and Ms Lisa Bluthal, both of Umina Beach, Ms Kerrie Jarvis and Mr Wane Jarvis both of Killcare and Mr Vincent Serventy of Pearl Beach representing the Wildlife Preservation Society Australia.

Other expressions of interest came from 14 others as well as Spike's brother, Mr Desmond Milligan, of Eastwood.

"The participation of people with a creative perspective would be an important component of the committee," the report stated.

Three of the applicants were members of the arts advisory group, Fusion.

In addition, members of Fusion represented various artistic networks on the Central Coast, and would be able to identify possible connections with existing events, organisations and infrastructure, upon which to build new events.

According to the council report, such a group had the background knowledge and expertise to develop options that, in addition to achieving the stated objective of celebrating the life of Spike Milligan, could open up significant cultural development opportunities.

It was recommended that all who expressed interest be invited to participate in an initial advisory process.

Following its formation, the committee may recommend the appointment of additional members of the group to provide specialist advice on specific options under consideration.

The committee will be convened by the Director of Community Services, Mr Phil Nowland.

The committee is expected to provide a report to Council by November 30.

Council agenda CS.027 June 25