I sincerely hope the front page story of the WESTERN SUBURBS community newspaper will inspire Fremantle property owners. The report is about Subiaco electrician Vern Hiddlestone who decided that he wanted the vacant retail premises he owns in Rokeby Road to be occupied, and has offered new tenants four months free rent and only an annual increase of 1.5 percent for the next four years.

Vern told the Western Suburbs that it had cost him a lot of money, but that it was the sacrifice he needed to make. He said he just did not like walking past empty shops.

So what about it owners of Fremantle retail properties. Follow Vern’s lead and show the community spirit he is showing. If it is for the common good it will be good for you in the long run.

Roel Loopers