“It’s bureaucracy gone mad.” 
That is how one local Metung resident described a proposed move by the Occupational, Health and Safety team at the East Gippsland Shire, who are intent on removing half a dozen wooden tables from the township that were purposed built for tourists (and locals) during the coronavirus pandemic.
The tables, made from recycled timbers –leftovers from jetty building - have proved a real hit in the township, allowing people to sit and enjoy their takeaway in Metung’s tranquil village.
The tables are a gift from the State Government who provided $200,000 to the East Gippsland Shire as part of a regional areas grant for various projects during the pandemic.
One of those projects the shire saw fit to fund was an outdoor dining initiative.
While some traders thought the tables might be competition to their businesses, the Metung Business and Tourism Association (BTA) finally agreed they would be a welcome addition to the town.

IMAGE: Clive Bury, of Bury’s Slipway in Nungurner, sits at one of his tables on the Village Green on Saturday afternoon. K318-5331