A unanimous decision by Port Stephens council to name a women's refuge after mayor Bruce MacKenzie has drawn criticism after it was revealed that he was convicted of assaulting his partner in 1997.
The Raymond Terrace facility will be known as "The Bruce MacKenzie Centre for Victims of Domestic Violence" in a move that has angered many in the community.
Ann Morris from the Hunter Women's Centre has slammed the decision, saying it is a totally inappropriate name given Cr Mackenzie's past.
"There's a bit of a stench around the whole thing," she said.
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| Bruce MacKenzie. Photo courtesy of Port Stephens Examiner |
He was ordered to enter into a 12-month good behaviour bond, however the magistrate did not record a conviction against his name.
Cr MacKenzie says he understands the concerns around naming the centre after him, but believes without his efforts, the shelter would not have gone ahead.
