A Northbridge couple faces council orders to dismantle their three-metre tall Holocaust memorial, erected in their backyard, due to concerns over planning regulations and potential impacts on harbour views.
The Memorial and Council Concerns
John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland, Negative No. 45729.
Photo Credit: State Library Queensland
Norbert and Sharon Wyzenbeek, long-time residents of their Northbridge waterfront home, are challenging Willoughby Council’s directive to remove the sculpture, which serves as a memorial to Mr Wyzenbeek’s family members who perished in concentration camps during World War Two.
The council contends that the memorial within the foreshore building line lacks the necessary development consent and may adversely affect the surrounding landscape and harbour views. Council representatives stated that local planning regulations, designed to protect the natural foreshore environment, prohibit structures of this nature within this sensitive zone.
They confirmed a few complaints had been received regarding the memorial’s impact on views from neighbouring properties.
Couple’s Response and Legal Action
John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland, Negative No. 62056.
Photo Credit: State Library Queensland
The Wyzenbeeks expressed surprise and disappointment at the council’s decision, particularly given the current rise in anti-Semitism. They emphasised that the memorial, representing an eternal flame, is located within their private garden and is not visible outside their property.
Mr Wyzenbeek did not understand why development approval would be required for a memorial on his land. The couple had attempted to obtain a building certificate for the memorial, but the council refused to issue one.
The couple’s lawyer, David Balog, wrote to the council, stating that his clients had always been committed to complying with development laws and expressed surprise that the council was taking enforcement action against an artistic sculpture in a private garden. If the council proceeds with enforcement, the couple is considering taking the matter to the Land and Environment Court.
Council’s Position and Community Acknowledgement
Willoughby Council maintained that the memorial’s purpose was not relevant in their decision, stating that the structure’s location within the foreshore building line was the primary concern. The council’s General Manager is scheduled to meet with the Wyzenbeeks to discuss the matter and seek a resolution.
The council acknowledged the importance of the memorial and the need to remember the Holocaust, as well as the presence of Holocaust survivors within the Willoughby area. Mayor Tanya Taylor had previously signed a combined mayor’s statement condemning anti-Semitic attacks, acknowledging the broader escalation of racism and violence against various communities. The council stated they were still reviewing other unapproved structures on the property, including a car stacker.
Published Date 20-March-2025