CTC Asthma CD Launch

CTC Asthma CD Launch

I was honoured to launch the CD produced by Kyogle CTC and commissioned for the Asthma Foundation of Australia on asthma management. The project researched key messages, developed a script and designed a multimedia CD around asthma management as advised by the asthma foundation. I was also pleased to present a cheque from the Minister for Community Services and Minister for Youth, The Hon Reba Meagher to buy additional video equipment to enable the CTC to be used on youth orientated projects associated at the centre.

Funds for Youth

Casino Girls Brigade - I recently attended the Casino Girls Brigade and presented a Pioneer Pin to Carrie Bailey to recognise four years of work and devotion. Over four years, Carrie earned one award each year for researching and compiling a project book, as well as completing a practical component. I also had the opportunity to attend a morning tea held by the Casino Girls Brigade community to present a cheque to assist the organisation in attaining much needed camping equipment.
Clunes & Kyogle Girl Guides - both local Guide units also received funds for recreational activities and camping.
Funds were made available by The Hon Ms Reba Meagher MP, Minister for Youth and Minister for Community Services to assist youth groups in gaining or replacing necessary equipment for the benefit and use by their members.

NSW Regional Achievement and Community Awards

This year is the inaugural year for these awards, that are an amalgamation of both the Regional Achievers and Community of the Year Award and the Community Enterprise Awards. Individuals, businesses, communities or organisations who have made a difference to regional and rural NSW in one of the following categories are being encouraged to apply. Categories are; Business Enterprise Award
Events and Tourism Award
Regional Service Award
Environment and Landcare Award
Community of the Year

Nominations can be made online at www.awardsaustralia.com or by contact my office. Closing date is 5 August 2005.

2005 Capital Assistance Program

This program assists local government authorities and not-for profit sporting and recreational organisations to develop community orientated local sporting and recreational facilities throughout NSW. All projects must improve access for the general public to participate in sport, recreation and/or physical activities. Guidance notes and application forms are available from my office. Closing date is 31 July 2005.

Environmental Trust

Applications are opening in the next couple of weeks for the following Environmental Trust programs - Environmental Research (major & minor categories), Environmental Education, Protecting our Places Aboriginal Grants Program, Eco Schools Grant Program and Environmental Restoration & Rehabilitation. Guidelines, application forms and more information is available on the website - www.environment.nsw.gov.au/envtrust or phone 8837 6093.

Review of Plantations & Reafforestation Legislation

The Department of Infrastructure, Planning & Natural Resources is reviewing the Plantations & Reafforestation Act 1999 and Reafforestation (Code) Regulation 2001. Interested parties are encouraged to provide comment and suggestions on how the legislation can be improved. Copies of the discussion paper and submission form can be obtained from www.dipnr.nsw.gov.au or 1300 305 695. Submissions close 1 August 2005.

Inquiry into Skills Shortages in Rural & Regional NSW

The Legislative Council Standing Committee on State Development is calling for submissions to an inquiry into skills shortages in rural & regional NSW. Copies of the terms of reference are available from my office or www.parliament.nsw.gov.au. The closing date is 5 August 2005.

Kids in Community Awards

I had the pleasure of attending the Kids in Community Awards at the Lismore workers Club on Tuesday evening. These awards through generous sponsorship recognised young people for their contribution to supporting others in the community and in some cases handling issues or problems which have effected themselves in their life. The night was a tribute to the committee, the sponsors and the family and friends of the Awards Nominees which this area can be justifiably proud of.