Electoral Redistribution

Electoral Redistribution

By now you would have read about the draft plan for the new electoral boundaries where Casino may be transferred into the Clarence electorate. Naturally I am very disappointed and was surprised that Casino was not maintained in the seat of Lismore. Obviously this is of concern not only because Casino has been my life, but Casino has a stronger affiliation with Lismore than the Clarence. Whilst it is sad for me people now have the opportunity to make submissions to the Electoral Commission and argue a case in accordance to community of interest to be retained in the Lismore Electorate.

Moratorium on Enclosure Permits

I have welcomed last weeks' announcement of a moratorium on the payment of increased fees for Enclosed Road Permits. My representations to the Minister for Lands, Tony Kelly prior to this have asked for a commonsense and equitable solution bearing in mind the drought conditions and the financial circumstances of many of the landholders. This moratorium, I hope will allow time to sort out a commonsense methodology to achieve a workable solution for everyone. Landholders who have already received their notices regarding enclosure permits should contact their Department of Lands office on 1800 641 596.

Rail Corridor Working Party

The first meeting of the Casino to Murwillumbah Rail Corridor Working Party, was postponed and will be held on Monday 9 August. As advised previously I have received a number of constituent approaches in relation to issues as a result of the closure of the branch line, I will highlight these matters and seek outcomes during discussions with members of the Working Party. Should constituents wish to convey incidents of concern or experiences, please do so by contacting my office.

ATLAS & POS Funding Cuts

The Government has scrapped the Post School Options (PSO) and ATLAS programs replacing them with new programs but with less funding. Under the new programs some families will have their funding slashed from $21,000 to between $15,699 and $9,000 a year. The reduction in funding means some families will now have to apply for respite, which will mean an alternative drain on the government resources. The Government also has changed the method of allocating funding. Now young disabled school leavers will have to scramble for vacancies wherever they occur. The new scheme is nothing more than a cost-cutting measure which short changes people who are already doing it tough. I am interested to hear from clients, families and carers who may be affected by the funding cuts to these programs.

NRMA "Safer Roads Save Lives"

I attended the Roads Summit at Grafton last week to especially highlight the concerns and seek their support of our East West connections in the Northern Rivers, such as the Summerland Way, Woodenbong to Legume Road and the Bruxner Highway. Since then I have received correspondence informing me that members of the NRMA Motoring & Services will try to inspect these roads when they are next in the area.

Electorate Functions

Country Athletes and Coaches Afternoon Tea - I hosted an afternoon tea to met 14 local athletes and local coaches representing six various sports who gathered at my office this week following their success in receiving assistance under the 2004 Country Athletes and Coaches Scheme.

Audsley Retirement Dinner - I was pleased to join local officers and members of the public who gathered at Ballina in appreciation of the services provided by Superintendent Barry Audsley as Local Area Commander. The evening was a wonderful tribute for Barry and Jenny

Nestle Write Around Australia - It was my pleasure to attend the finalist presentation at the Lismore City Library, which was held last Friday. Names of the children who were present are Sarah Hort, Samlara Canin-Henkel, Hannah and Ellen Ramstadius, Zac Knight and Bethan Harding. Congratulations to the Year 5 and 6 students children who participated.

Daffodil Day

On the 20 August people across Australia will come together in a spirit of good will and participate in this special celebration. As the international symbol of hope, the daffodil represents our shared believe in a cancer-free future. People interested in participating by selling merchandise to friends, family and colleagues can call 1300 65 65 85 or visit www.daffodilday.com.au

"Indent" One Off Grants

This is an organisation called Independent entertainment network for young people in NSW. You can apply for up to $2,000 per gig, festival or event happening after September 10 this year. Further information can be obtained by visiting www.indent.net.au

2005 Macquarie Bank Indigenous Scholarship

Applications for this scholarship are now open and is merit-based and open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who can demonstrate a developed interest in directing, producing, screenwriting or documentary. Application forms can be downloaded www.aftrs.edu.au

Small Grants for Small Rural Communities

A small grants program for small rural Australian communities is offering grants again this year to benefit not-for-profit organisations in rural and remote communities. For more information www.frrr.org.au or call 1800 170 020.

2005 Australian of the Year Awards

You are invited to nominate a friend, family member, community leader, colleague of even someone famous - an Australian who you believe makes our country a better place to live. Forms are available at Commonwealth Banks, more information call 1300 655 193 or www.australianoftheyear.gov.au. These awards close Friday 20 August 2004.