New Drug Scheme on Trial

Last week saw the release of the Carr Government's plan of action emanating from the NSW Drug Summit. The report is available for viewing from my office.

New Drug Scheme on Trial

NSW Attorney General The Hon Jeff Shaw visited Lismore to launch the trial of a major new pilot aimed at directing drug offenders into treatment programs and away from a life of crime. This announcement recognises that we do have a problem in this area. The trial will enable the establishment of treatment programs instead of goal. However, I do have concerns that the success of this program will depend on proper and sufficient funding. If this is not available we will achieve nothing.

Parents In Pain (PIP)

Rhonda and I were guests at a PIP meeting recently and soon become aware of their work. This is a self-help organisation offering friendship, support and understanding to parents of children affected by drug addiction. The members of PIP are now considering the establishment of similar groups in surrounding towns and wish to hear from any interested people. Contact person is Margaret Orr on 66281319.

NSW Health Ministerial Advisory Committee

Rt Hon Ian Sinclair, Chairman together with nine committee members recently toured the area to speak with locals regarding the establishment of Multi Purpose Service (MPS) facilities in local towns. An MPS combines the local hospital with community and residential aged care services (nursing home and hostel) under one management structure. The MPS Program is a joint initiative of the State and Commonwealth Governments aimed at providing viable health and aged care services to smaller towns.

The focus was on Nimbin and Kyogle in the planning of their communities' future health facilities. The committee will make recommendations to the Health Minister, Hon Craig Knowles, who I would like to thank for having the foresight in conducting this enquiry, about the options for delivering the best possible health and aged care services.

Women in Business Mentor Program

I was pleased to accompany the Hon Sandra Nori, Minister for Small Business and Tourism as special guest at the Graduation Dinner which recognised the graduates and mentors of the program hosted by Lismore Business Enterprise Centre.

Bentley Art Prize

As tradition has it Bentley was proud to display some of the North Coast region's finest artworks at its yearly exhibition. This was enjoyed by many and again reinforced this display is a premier event in our area.

Thorne Bridge Opening

I was honoured to participate in the official opening of Thorne Bridge conducted on the weekend. At a time when people are very critical of our roads, it was nice to be part of a good news roads story. I congratulate the staff of Lismore City Council on the magnificent job they did in the construction of this bridge, which was recognised by everyone who attended. This bridge now hopefully provides the Valley with a flood free access to Lismore.

Keerong Public Hall Reserve Trust

Applications are being invited from persons interested in being considered for appointment as a member of the Trust to manage the affairs of the Keerong Public Hall Reserve Trust. Applications should be lodged before Monday 13 September 1999.