Brinek: Model car club

Model car club fights for dedication

Since 1993, a small community of people interested in model cars has been meeting in Kaindorf in Styria to have races with their small model cars that are able to speed up to 80 km per hour. In the course of time, a professional club was established with a cafeteria and a paddock; even national championships took place there. The club has all necessary authorisations regarding water regulations, public events and nature conservation restrictions.

Club members had the feeling that they were welcome in Kaindorf, making PR for the town and bringing in new guests. All of a sudden, the mayor realized that the area where the club was situated did not have the necessary official dedication. The club and its members felt disappointed and cheated on by the municipality and turned to the Austrian Ombudsman Board.

Ombudswoman Brinek: „I am aware of the fact that nobody has a legal entitlement to a specific dedication, but the club members clearly have a right to correct proceedings. For years, the municipality issued authorisations for the club’s activities and now suddenly – without giving any reasons – refuses the dedication categorically. I demand that the authorities handle this case correctly.”

Re-Examination: Damage of a confiscated motor-bike in custody

In an episode of „Bürgeranwalt“ in February 2010, a man complained about the damaging of his confiscated motor-bike in official custody. Ombudswoman Brinek demanded a quick solution and a compensation for the owner.

Brinek was successful, the owner is now being compensated for the damage of his Harley Davidson.