NORTHERN RIVERS ECHO

Northern Rivers Echo

21 December 2006

Local Firefighters Helping Across NSW Whilst recently visiting Narrabri in NSW’s South West I was pleased to catch up with local firefighters who are helping in the effort to contain this summer’s early fires. Thankyou to all of the local volunteers who have taken time away from their jobs and families to help those under threat in other parts of the State.

Observance of Commonwealth Day 2006 Each year Observance of Commonwealth Day celebrations are held in London and each Member of Parliament has the opportunity to nominate a potential participant from their electorate, who may be in London on 12 March 2007. Nominees should be within the approximate age of 18 to 25, have shown an interest in Commonwealth and parliamentary affairs, displayed potential leadership qualities and already have plans to be in London or nearby on Commonwealth Day. Plans include discussion on the Commonwealth, presence at the Observance Ceremony in Westminister Abbey (attended by Her Majesty the Queen) and visits to the Houses of Parliament. Any travel and accommodation costs involved would be the responsibility of the nominee. Closing date is 15 January 2007.

Drought Proofing NSW Fund Shadow Minister for Natural Resources, Adrian Piccoli says the NSW Liberal/Nationals announcement of its $1 billion Drought Proofing NSW Fund, will provide for well overdue investment in dams and recycling and will be welcomed across this region.

The fund will provide funding for projects across NSW including;

Stormwater harvesting

Large scale recycling

Repair ageing infrastructure such as leaky pipes and

Dam enhancement.

The Fund is in addition to existing expenditure and commitments on water, such as the doubling of the rainwater tank rebate. Furthermore, the NSW Liberal/Nationals assurance to clear the backlog of the Country Towns Water Supply and Sewerage Program which has been chronically under-funded by Labor.

Karen, Bronwyn, Kirsten, Christine & I extend Season Greetings for a safe, happy and holy Christmas. I trust everyone will be blessed with good health for the year 2007.

Our office will be closed from 12.00 noon Friday 22 December until 9.00am Tuesday 2 January 2006.

Office contacts (ph) 6621 3624, (fax) 6622 1403, PO Box 52 Lismore, Email: lismore@parliament.nsw.gov.au or www.thomasgeorge.com.au