Qld; City council gives Giddyup the go ahead amid safety worries

AAP General News (Australia)
12-13-2000
Qld; City council gives Giddyup the go ahead amid safety worries

Queensland's first licensed brothel has been given the go ahead by Townsville City
Council, but a local business leader says it'll pose significant workplace health and
safety problems.

Giddyup Garbutt will operate as a five bedroom boutique brothel in an old warehouse
in Townsville's industrial suburb of Garbutt if the state's Prostitution Licensing Authority
approves its application.

Last night the Townsville City Council voted six votes to four to approve the brothel,
despite the objections of some local business people and Townsville Mayor TONY MOONEY.

He says the council is in a planning straitjacket as counsellors can be held personally
liable for damages if council doesn't approve the brothel, because it meets new state
government guidelines.

Townsville Chamber of Commerce president TIM HANSON says he has no moral objections
to the brothel, but businesses nearby may be affected.

Speaking on ABC Radio he said they're concerned and also recognise the employer is
responsible for the safety of its staff.

AAP RTV rad/klw/et

KEYWORD: GIDDYUP (BRISBANE)

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