Rally picks up chase on failed court costs

CR KATIE MILNE – awaiting reserved cost decision

THE Repco Rally will pursue Tweed councillor Katie Milne for the cost of Thursday's failed application to the Federal Court for an emergency injunction.

The injunction was a last minute bid to try to stop the rally on the grounds it will threaten a number of endangered species.

Chairman of the rally Garry Connelly said the case had cost the rally about $40,000.

The rally hired Senior Counsel Dr Melissa Perry and barrister Ben Kramer to represent them in court.

“We are a not-for-profit organisation owned by its members,” he said.

“This is money we need not have spent.”

Indigenous Justice Advocacy Network advocate Al Oshlack, who represented Ms Milne and did not charge for his services, said his client should not have to pay costs.

“They are trying to attack financially the person who got up and took the case to the courts on behalf of the community,” he said.

Justice Margaret Stone reserved her decision about awarding costs. Both parties must lodge their submissions arguing their case about costs by Wednesday.

Mr Oshlack said should they eventually be forced to pay costs the money would be raised from within the local community.

“She (Cr Milne) has so much support,” he said.

Mr Connelly said the actions of people opposed to the rally had the affect of hardening the resolve of those who supported it.

“This thing is happening. Let's just get on with it,” he said,