Council has been called on to denounce bullying after the city’s highest ranking public servant scared passengers with an allegedly aggressive outburst at the airport on Tuesday morning.
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Council general manager Alan Eldridge reportedly stood over recently-retired councillor Julian McLaren and berated him for publicly criticising council’s handling of its relationship with Regional Express (Rex).
Wagga health professional Jenni Campbell has described witnessing a “scary”, “aggressive” and “volatile” incident while waiting for her flight.
"There were actually two incidents - one in the security line prior to screening and one in the lounge; it was scary,” Ms Campbell said.
“I didn't realise it was the council general manager; on the spot I made a complaint to security because I was scared.
“I couldn't believe it was occurring in a public place, let alone an airport, where security is valued above all else.”
Ms Campbell said Mr McLaren’s “calm demeanour” took the sting out of the altercation, which could otherwise have become “very dangerous”.
“When I got in the lounge, one of my colleagues said to me 'Oh my god, he's at it again',” Ms Campbell said.
"Julian had distanced himself from the general manager, but the general manager was at him again.
"The language and behaviour was inconsistent with what you'd expect from someone in the highest office of local government.
"Council really has to show leadership on this."
Mr McLaren claimed the general manager had condemned him for speaking to the media in the past, but never so publicly.
“As I was waiting in line to be security checked, the general manager of Wagga City Council approached me and called me a germ and a liar,” Mr McLaren said.
“Local government is not above scrutiny and accordingly should expect, even demand to be questioned.
“Anecdotal evidence that I have obtained suggests there is a culture of bullying and intimidation at Wagga City Council.
“I call on the councillors to establish a confidential and independent service so that reports of bullying at Wagga City Council can be reported without fear of retribution.”
The Daily Advertiser has heard a voice recording that appears to corroborate Mr McLaren’s version of events.
Mayor Greg Conkey has taken ownership of the scandal, launching an “inquiry into conflicting reports about an incident that occurred at Wagga airport”.
“The city of Wagga does not tolerate bullying or harrassment and has clear policies, procedures and training in place to ensure this does not occur,” Cr Conkey said.
