Local Government News

Don Page
State Matters

Flashing lights at school zones

A recently released University study shows that the biggest killer of children 0-14 is pedestrian injuries involving a motor vehicle.

The report states:

"Pedestrians aged 10 years are particularly vulnerable because of their small physical size and underdeveloped abilities for dealing with traffic situations, both cognitive (attention focus, interpreting traffic signs) and perceptual (locating sounds, judging speed, peripheral vision)."

The report shows in the year 2000, 38 child pedestrians aged 0-14 died and about 1140 were hospitalised across Australia, often with lengthy stays, because of injuries sustained when hit by a vehicle.

The findings of the report provide a good argument for the installation of flashing lights in school zones. Some motorists get confused about whether school is back, still on holidays or if it is a pupil free day. Flashing lights remove this uncertainty and should be installed at all schools throughout NSW with higher risk school sites given higher priority.

Flashing lights are already utilised around schools in South Australia, Queensland and Victoria and have been effective in reducing child pedestrian injuries. They should also be urgently considered in NSW.

Law Week 2005

As part of celebrations for Law Week 2005, the Ballina Local Court and Ballina Library will be co-hosting a 'Relationships with the Law' open day.

The open day will be held on Wednesday, May 18, from 10am to 3pm at the Ballina Local Court and Library in River Street, Ballina.

Over 20 government agencies and related organisations will be available to answer questions and meet with members of the community.

Further info is available from my office.

Schizophrenia Awareness Week

Schizophrenia Awareness Week will be held from May 15-22. The week provides an opportunity to raise awareness of mental illness and work towards a community where people with mental illness are treated as equals.

During the Schizophrenia Awareness Week supporters of the Schizophrenia Fellowship will be selling sunflower badges and bringing attention to the plight of those living with schizophrenia.

If you would like further information please visit the Fellowship's website at www.sfnsw.org.au.

Office contacts

Address: PO Box 1018, Ballina, NSW, 2478
Phone: 6686 7522
Fax: 6686 7470
Email: Don.Page@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Thomas George
Canberra Connection

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

Pictured are (rear l-r) myself, Laurie Yates, Eileen Melling, Dorothy and Col Sullivan, Betty Hyde, Steve Cansdell, Ron Hyde, Larry Anthony, Audrey Parker, Ian Causley, Betty Berry, Earl Creighton and Bill Berry, with (front l-r) Jeff and Audrey Imeson, Frank Eggins, Darcy Dwyer, Joyce Creighton and Marie Barling. Congratulations to all who were recognised. Photograph courtesy of Dot Robson.

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. 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 Queensland. 2) Not allow the use of vaccines except when moving stock into infected areas. 3) Not allow the movement of Queensland 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 in Kyogle, the march and a luncheon in Casino and a Battle of Britain tribute in Lismore. Trinity Catholic College also remembered this special occasion with a ceremony on April 29.

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 and Emergency Service Awards: It is always a pleasure to attend the combined Police, Fire Brigade and Ambulance Service Medals and Awards Presentation Service. This is a wonderful opportunity to recognise the long-term service and bravery of officers, together with the commitment from volunteers, and at the same time show appreciation for 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.

FarmBis funding refused

Shadow Minister for Primary Industries, Duncan Gay, has highlighted that farmers are being disadvantaged because the NSW 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 Government to get a move on, release it and allocate future funding for the program in the upcoming State Budget on May 24.

Dental inquiry

The Legislative Council Standing Committee on Social Issues is undertaking an inquiry into dental services, which closes on May 27. Terms of reference and other information relating to this inquiry is available at www.parliament.nsw.gov.au.

Office contacts

Address: PO Box 52, Lismore, NSW, 2480
Phone: 6621 3624
Fax: 6622 1403
Email: lismore@parliament.nsw.gov.au or www.thomasgeorge.com.au