Tick Meetings

Tick Meetings

Following a number of enquiries, concerns and requests for information on recent tick outbreaks, policy, vaccinations and the loss of cattle due to tick fever, I convened meetings in Casino and Murwillumbah. Approximately 300 local producers attended to discuss their growing concerns relating to cattle ticks. Representatives from the NSW Department of Primary Industries and the Cattle Tick Program were present to advise its current position regarding tick control, outbreaks, vaccinations and the outline for the future.
The meetings moved five motions, calling on the Minister for Primary Industries to - 1) create a buffer zone along the border with Qld, 2) not allow the use of vaccines except when moving stock into infected areas, 3) not allow the movement of Qld cattle onto NSW properties unless previously blood tested, 4) to fully fund the cost of chemicals for properties which are currently quarantined, 5) not pursue current policy in relation to the cattle tick program.

Electorate Functions -

Anzac Day - I was honoured to attend Anzac Day commemorations starting with the Dawn Service at Kyogle, the march and a luncheon at Casino and a Battle of Britain Tribute at Lismore. Trinity Catholic College also remembered this special occasion with a ceremony on 29 April.
Deaf Society Community Consultation - I was pleased to attend this meeting which aims to establish a parent support group for those of deaf children. The evening was a great time of sharing experiences and discussing the future directions of the group.
Police & Emergency Service Awards - it is always a pleasure to attend the combined Police, Fire Brigade and Ambulance Service Medals & Awards Presentation Service. This is a wonderful opportunity to recognise the long term service and bravery of officers, together with the commitment from volunteers. at the same time appreciating the support provided by their families, partners and friends.

Bus Timetable Changes

I have been overwhelmed by the number of phone calls, letters, faxes and emails regarding the changes to Kirklands bus timetables. During my six years as local member I have not received such a response to any issue in such a short period of time. I am continuing to forward all correspondence to both Kirklands and the Ministry of Transport for its consideration when reviewing changes.

Farmers Miss Out As FarmBis Funding Refused

Shadow Minister for Primary Industries, Duncan Gay has highlighted that farmers are being disadvantaged as they forfeit training and education advances because the NSW Labor Government has refused to sign up to FarmBis 3 funding. NSW is the only State in Australia that had failed to commit to the funding. FarmBis is a joint Federal/State program that offers financial incentives to farmers to access training courses. The funding is especially important to farmers in this time of need as they continue to battle the ongoing drought. Mr Gay said the funding was allocated in the State Budget so he could not understand the hold up. FarmBis funding has not been available since August 2003 and he has called on the NSW Labor Government to get a move on and release it and allocates future funding for the program in the upcoming State Budget on May 24.

Legislative Council Standing Committee on Social Issues

This Committee is undertaking an inquiry into Dental Services, that closes Friday 27 May 2005. Terms of reference and other information relating to this inquiry is available at www.parliament.nsw.gov.au.

Nationals Presentation

Last week I had the pleasure of attending, along with The Hon Larry Anthony, The Hon Ian Causley MP & Mr Steve Cansdell MP, a presentation in Casino to acknowledge 40 years or more of membership and service to the National Party by 23 members.

Did you know .?

State Emblems
Floral Emblem - The Waratah (Telopea Speciosissima) is the floral emblem of New South Wales, a large (10-12cm across) and spectacular scarlet flower growing in the bush in clumps of tall stems. The Waratah is protected by law.

Bird Emblem - The Kookaburra (Dacelo Gigas) is the bird emblem of NSW. This great brown kingfisher is sometimes called a 'laughing jackass' because of its distinctive territorial laughing call. Meat eaters, they hunt snakes, lizards, fish and insects and live at forest edges, in clearings.

Animal Emblem - The Platypus (Ornithorhynchus Anatinus), is the animal emblem of NSW. The platypus is a furry creature, about 30-38cm long, it has webbed feet and a large duck-like bill which it uses to gather its food from the bottom of rivers.

Fish Emblem - The Blue Groper (Achoerodus Viridis) was proclaimed the State fish of NSW in 1998. A friendly but powerful coastal fish that often follows divers. It can be up to a metre long and weigh between 2-15kg, though some specimens may reach 40kg or more.