Council Comment

with Charlie Cox

No to joining Clarence

Richmond Valley Council is opposed to a proposal to transfer Casino to the State Electorate of Clarence and has conveyed that opposition to the Electoral District Commissioners. Council stresses that Casino has a predominant community of interest with Lismore.

In social and economic issues (health services, government agencies, industry, business connections and cultural interests), Casino has stronger links with Lismore than with Grafton. Our recent support of the branch rail line from Casino to Murwillumbah is yet another example that Casino's interests and future are more directed to our north east.

Additionally, given that the current State Government policy is to base local councils on catchment areas, it is an anomaly to take Casino out of the Richmond Valley. Ideally it would serve us more effectively if the whole of Richmond Valley Council area was to be included in the Lismore State Electorate.

Would we get the same media coverage and support if we were attached to Grafton?

Book week

Children's Book Week was a timely opportunity for the release by the Regional Library manager, Gary Ellem, of his Annual Report on our library services. Library membership has increased by 19% and circulation is up 7%.

A major achievement has been the establishment of the Mobile Library. During its fortnightly schedule the Mobile Libraray carries some 3,500 items to 29 locations in the Richmond and Upper Clarence area. With a membership of 900 borrowers, the mobile service is something we can be proud of.

Richmond Valley Council libraries are among the most used services we are able to offer our residents. Casino Library had 62,372 patrons through its doors last year and hosted 95 meetings and functions.

Coraki centenary

Last week the Campbell Hospital celebrated its first 100 years of service to our community. At the dinner to launch Bill Bartier's Centenary Booklet, it was more than obvious to me as mayor, the depth of feeling the people of Mid-Richmond have for their hospital and the impact the combined care of their doctors and medical staff has had on their lives.

Congratulations to the centenary celebrations organising committee, and a special thanks to Bill Bartier for his meticulous research. His book is well worth reading.

Water restrictions

Yes, Level One water restrictions apply to Casino as from last Saturday night. This means sprinklers and fixed hoses (including soaker hoses) shall not be used between the hours of 8am and 4pm. Gardeners will tell you these are high evaporation times and Council's staff will also remind you that it is a period of high demand by business and industry. Hand held hoses may be used at any time, but to conserve water it is recommended that watering is only done during the cooler periods of early morning or evening.

Every one of us needs to make an effort to cut down on the amount of water we use each day.

Village opens

On Sunday, I was honoured to officially open the Village Square at the CMCA Village. The progress being made at the Village and the quality of the facilities impressed the 500 or so visitors who enjoyed the craft market day.

Casino can expect quite an increase in motorhomes over the next month as the Wanderers make their way to an from this month's Toowoomba Rally.