MAYOR Simon Richardson wants Byron Shire to “lead the charge” for marriage equality in Australia and is even considering producing symbolic marriage certificates that he could present at ceremonies for same sex couples
Cr Richardson is preparing a notice of motion to place on record the shire’s support for marriage equality and is looking for more ideas, “both symbolic and substantial to add weight to this”.
A marriage registry in Byron Shire for gay couples and handing out a tree to them on their union to plant in a “love park”, are some of the ideas that he’s already considering.
He said he hoped Byron’s stance would prompt similar action from councils across Australia, placing pressure on the Federal Government to reverse its opposition to gay marriage in this election year.