The Week That Was
Echo 20 September 01
The Week That Was
Our local community shares the United States' sense of outrage and grief
for the loss of life in last week's terrorist attacks. As in other
nations, many people have been affected by the attacks and we all share
a deep sorrow for those who have suffered and assure them of the Lismore
electorate's prayers and continuing support.
In regards to illegal immigration, urgent Federal legislation to
reassert Australia's sovereign borders is needed. This time it must
be supported by Kim Beazley and the ALP, who made the mistake of not
endorsing the legislation when it was first presented a month ago.
Ansett collapse
I have enjoyed and been fortunate to receive the courteous services
from the dedicated staff at Hazelton and I was personally saddened to
hear of the loss of employment and support from our region last week.
The support and understanding shown by customers is a tribute to the
service afforded to all travellers. I am sure that I am not alone in
hoping that management discussions and negotiations will prove beneficial
for the future of Hazelton and the local staff, for the service to be
re-established in our region as we deserve.
2001 Rainbow Region Masters Games - What A Success!
Many sportspeople local and from afar enjoyed the opportunity to
compete, socialise, and relive the legend. The success is attributable
to the committed sponsors and the very hardworking and dedicated Committee
led by Therese Crollick with John Bancroft, Leanne Clark, Julie Fenwick
(representing Lismore City Council). Also the reliable team of Games'
volunteers incorporating the many sporting associations, venue organisers
and a vast array of individual sport helpers.
Flood Levee
It was pleasing to welcome Senator Ian Macdonald, Ian Causley and
Harry Woods to the Lismore electorate, on the occasion of turning the
first soil for the construction of Lismore's $13 million flood levee
project, last week. The ceremony marked years of planning by Lismore
City Council and Richmond River County Council in developing a floodplain
management plan for Lismore. The culmination of community and business
needs over this period of time highlighted the difficult nature of developing
a plan that met the needs of all areas.
Investment in Lismore
I welcome the announcement by Bendigo Bank of its $2 million
investment in Lismore-based Company, Aspect North, under its Regional
Development Fund. The major expansion over the next three years has
the potential to create up to 50 new jobs that will be of immense benefit
to the regional and local economy. Congratulations to Aspect North and
its staff.
Power Supply - Have Your Say
In the coming weeks Country Energy's Northern customers will receive
a survey in the mail offering them the chance to influence its services.
Country Energy wants to hear from its customers, they want customers to
tell them their needs and set a clear direction for the services they
expect Country Energy to offer in the future. I encourage people of
the Lismore electorate to become involved and comment and enable Country
Energy to determine the appropriate community needs for the future.
Justice Awards 2001
These awards recognise the contributions individuals have made to
improve access to justice in NSW, particularly for socially and economically
disadvantaged people. Categories involve a Law & Justice Volunteer of
the Year Award, Justice Essay, Justice Research Fellowship and a Justice
Medal. Information packs for the 2001 Justice Awards are available from
my office or website: www.lawfoundation.net.au/awards 2001.
Gundurimba Flood Refuge Reserve Trust
Vacancies have occurred on the Trust Board
appointed to manage the affairs of this Trust, which is charged with
care, control and management of Reserve 38468 for Refuge in time of
flood at Gundurimba. Applications for appointment as Trust Board
members are being invited and interested persons can contact the Department
of Land and Water Conservation direct on 6640 2061 or my office.
