Media Releases, April 2009
For previous releases, click here
Extreme Disappointment At Nationals Latest Decision On Tamworth Hospital
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Independent MP, for the Electorate of Tamworth, Peter Draper has expressed extreme disappointment at today’s decision by the Nationals to abandon Shadow Health Minister, Jillian Skinner’s commitment to redevelop the Tamworth Hospital.
The Nationals have now decided to refer the matter to a Tamworth Hospital Taskforce.
Mr Draper said that in August 2008, he had received a response from Mrs Skinner to his letter seeking a commitment from the Coalition to the Tamworth Hospital redevelopment. He said that in this letter Mrs Skinner had said, “The health needs of the residents living in the electorates of Tamworth and Northern Tablelands will form an important part of the NSW Liberal/Nationals Coalition rural health policy. We are fully committed to delivering the long-promised Tamworth Hospital and to this end have committed making it a priority for Coalition Government. We are concerned that the progress on the redevelopment of Tamworth Hospital is slow and as such are currently pressuring Morris Iemma and Reba Meagher to have a more transparent construction process.”
"The Liberals gave a commitment to the people and the Nationals have taken it away," Mr Draper said.
"This decision not only disappoints me, but it is a slap in the face for all residents in the region," he said.
“Mr Stoner says in his media release on this issue that ‘local people have understandably lost faith in NSW Labor’ and many have, however, today’s announcement will also see many more people lose faith in the Nationals for their dereliction of country people.”
“At the last election they pledged to put a $15 million band-aid job on the hospital. Following their election loss, Mrs Skinner provided the commitment to build the hospital, yet now it is back to the drawing board,” he said.
“I was very pleased to have a commitment from both the Government and the Coalition to redelop Tamworth Hospital as the hub medical centre for northern NSW, as it will play an integral role as a teaching hospital for students from the School of Rural Medicine in Armidale.”
“There was a bipartisan agreement to redevelop Tamworth Hospital but, that is no longer the case,” he continued.
Mr Draper said that in his announcement Mr Stoner indicated ‘The NSW Liberal/Nationals believe in putting people first. This means involving local communities in decision-making’.
“At the last state election local people supported a full redevelopment of the Hospital as opposed to a $15 million band-aid fix. They have already clearly shown they want a full redevelopment,” Mr Draper said.
“So, where do the Nationals stand now?” he asked.
“I remain totally committed to a full redevelopment and will continue to pursue this objective aggressively.”
“I will work with Labor, Liberal/National or any other political force that is prepared to make the financial commitment for the people of Tamworth, and to keep it!”
“The major parties need to realize that when they make a commitment to the community they are expected to keep it.”
“Their failure to do so is a key reason the latest polls show even more voters inclining towards Independents and the Greens,” Mr Draper concluded.
Click here to view August 2008 letter from Shadow Health Minister, Jillian Skinner, to Mr Draper committing to Tamworth Hospital redevelopment.
Deserving Sports Presented With State Representative Certificates
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Local Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has presented a number of local sports persons with NSW State Representative Certificates.
State Representative Certificates can be presented to sports persons who have represented NSW in their chosen field.
“I would like to congratulate all involved for having represented our state in competition.”
“They do both themselves, their community and their state proud,” Mr Draper said.
The followings reps were presented with their State Representative Certificates.
- Sid Turnham - 2008 NSW Pacific School Games Swimming Team / 200m Individual Medley & 50 Metre Backstroke
- Christopher Ninness - 2008 NSW Pacific School Games / U12 Boys Hockey Team
- Tegan Smith - 2008 NSW Pacific School Games / Track & Field and Javelin Team
- Emma Clifton – 2008 Pacific School Games / Girls U16 Hockey Team
- Isaac Farmilo - 2008 NSW Pacific School Games / U12 Boys Hockey Team
Mr Draper will also be forwarding certificates to Jake Hathway and Ben Merrick who attended the 2008 NSW Pacific School Games and played in the U16 Boys Hockey Team, as both were unable to attend the presentation.
Additionally, Mr Draper recently presented Gunnedah’s Laura Tumbers - 2008 NSW Pacific School Games Swimming / Open 500 freestyle with her certificate at a St Mary's College Assembly for her participation at the same competition.
“It is important that sports persons who take that step up the ladder and represent their state are recognized for their dedication and success,” Mr Draper said.
“It is also important to recognise the parents who sacrifice a great deal to give these talented young people the opportunity to attend competitions and continually hone their skills,” he said.
“I look forward to them taking further advances in their sporting careers into the future,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo (from left): back – Peter Draper MP, Sid Turnham and Tegan Smith; front – Emma Clifton, Christopher Ninness and Isaac Farmilo.
Police Minister To Be Told Response To Law, Crime and Order Questionnaire Highlights Community Concerns
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Independent State Member for the Electorate of Tamworth, Peter Draper, will use information from his Law, Crime and Order Questionnaire to press Police Minister, Tony Kelly, for increased Police numbers. He will also stress the need for more programmes to deal with social issues that lead to crime when the Minister visits both Tamworth and Gunnedah tomorrow.
Mr Draper said results to date highlighted many community concerns, and gave a valuable perspective of resident’s thoughts on this important issue.
“Having received over 6,000 responses, analysing the data is a huge task and will take some time, however an examination of the 846 responses received from the Gunnedah district provides a snapshot of concerns facing the entire electorate, and as further responses are processed a clearer picture of each communities challenges will emerge,” Mr Draper said.
“The Gunnedah responses reflect serious concerns regarding recent spikes in certain crime categories, and backs up the communities unwavering demands for an increased police presence,” he said.
Mr Draper said over 16% of Gunnedah residents had responded to the questionnaires, which was an excellent response and indicated the strength of concerns the community held on the issue.
“There were some interesting findings,” Mr Draper said.
“78% of respondents were over 45 years of age, and 70% of those people thought crime levels are unacceptable,” he said.
“Of the respondents, 74% thought crime levels are increasing, but of real concern, nearly 30% said they did not feel safe in their own homes, so this is a priority for authorities to address,” he continued.
Mr Draper said that 83% of respondents identified certain areas of Gunnedah as ‘no go zones’, and said that while 70% of respondents were happy with Police service, most noted they were understaffed and under pressure.
“Misbehaviour by teenagers, drunkenness, vandalism, burglary, theft, assault, domestic disputes, street racing and speeding were amongst the main areas of concern identified,” he said.
“Major causes of crime were identified as alcohol, drug abuse, family breakdown, unemployment, violence and racial issues,” he said.
Mr Draper said that there was a need for more social programmes to address these issues, particularly targeting young people at risk.
I heard Father Chris Riley, the founder and CEO of Youth Off The Streets on radio recently, and what he said is food for thought. Father Riley said:
‘There's just no hope in their eyes and so when there's no hope and you're looking in the mirror each morning and saying 'I can't contribute anything, I'm going nowhere', so they then start using drugs and alcohol. They're probably already doing significant crime if they're into the drugs and alcohol, because they certainly wouldn't get the money to buy that sort of stuff. Often you'll see a kid with a bottle of Jack Daniels at nine in the morning; that'd costs about 30 bucks which is a lot of money for these kid.”
“93% of respondents want to empower teachers to restore discipline at schools, but most added that teachers should not have to be substitute parents, and that parental responsibility is where the issue should be first addressed,” Mr Draper said.
“It is telling that 96% think the judiciary is failing both the community and our police officers by handing down inappropriate sentences, especially to repeat juvenile offenders, and that sentences do not meet community expectations.”
“I will also be raising this issue with the Attorney General,” Mr Draper continued.
“Respondents clearly indicated they want to see more Police foot patrols, especially late on Friday and Saturday nights, more visible police cars on patrol, plus increased prevention strategies that start in the schools,” he said.
Last but not least, Mr Draper said that amongst the farming community, 70% believe there has been an increase in rural property crime and stock theft, and many thought the current stock squad was ineffective.
“Thanks to the wonderful response by local residents on these issues, I have a wealth of information to place before Minister Kelly during his visit, and most importantly, let him know exactly what the community expects.”
“This information, along with the latest data released by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research showing that Gunnedah experienced dramatic spikes in break and enter of dwellings plus motor vehicle theft, provides us with a very strong case,” he said.
“This has been a most impressive response from the community and cannot be ignored, so I thank everybody who took the time to send back the surveys.”
“In coming weeks I will be presenting the findings detailing community concerns and public expectations to all the relevant authorities and seeking solutions to these problems, and I will also respond to the many letters attached to surveys.”
“Once the responses from Tamworth City and other communities have been completed, their views will add to the valuable information already compiled,” Mr Draper concluded.
First Sod Turned To Commence Work On The New $8.1 Million Bullimbal School For Specific Purposes
Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, felt ‘over the moon’ today, as the first sod was turned to commence work on the new Bullimbal School for Specific Purposes.
Mr Draper and Tony Windsor, the Federal Member for New England, officiated at the ceremony, held at the Degance Street site, this morning.
“I’m sure that everybody in Tamworth and the wider region will share my joy at this very important step in constructing the new school,” Mr Draper said.
“The new facility, opposite Tamworth High School, will offer further impetus to the wonderful work of the teachers, assistants and volunteers at Bullimbal School.”
“Whilst all projects I am involved in within the electorate of Tamworth are special, this one holds a very special place in my heart as my grandmother played a significant part in developing the highly respected tradition at Bullimbal School of providing outstanding opportunities for young people with disabilities.”
“Mary Riley was the founding Principal of the school and led its development for 27 years, seeing it from the formative years at the Tamworth Showground to the development on its current site under the auspices of Challenge Foundation”
“No doubt her enthusiasm and commitment was an infectious catalyst in forging the strong community partnership that continues to help Bullimbal’s work flourish to this day,” he said.
“I look forward to seeing Bullimbal School go from strength to strength with the excellent facilities that will be constructed on the new site,” he continued.
Mr Draper said the new Bullimbal School $8.1 million project would include:
- 8 home bases
- Special programs
- Library
- Multi purpose space
- Covered outdoor learning area
- Administration/Staff rooms
- Student services
- Storage
- Assembly court
- Car park and port-cochere
- Hydrotherapy pool
- Bike track
- Landscaping
It is anticipated that first classes will be held on the new site during Term 1 next year.
The project is included in the Department of Education and Training’s Major Capital Works Programme and is jointly funded by the State and Commonwealth Governments.
Photo: State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, Federal Member for New England, Tony Windsor, Jim White (Relieving Regional Director New England - Department of Education and Training) and Mal Donald (Principal Bullimbal School) were joined by parent representatives, staff and students as Bullimbal student, Tyler Downey, helps turns the first sod to commence work on the new $8.1 million Bullimbal School for Specific Purposes.
NSW / ACT Regional Achievement and Community Awards
Monday, April 27, 2009
According to State MP, Peter Draper, the NSW / ACT Regional Achievement and Community Awards are a wonderful way to recognise stand out achievers in the local community, who add to the regions amenity.
“These awards are an opportunity to encourage and support the individuals and groups who greatly enhance the local community,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said there are six categories available, and that nominations close on Friday 21st August 2009.
The six categories are:
- The Department of Lands Crowns Reserve Trust Award
- The Department of Lands Community of the Year Award
- The Department of State and Regional Development Business Enterprise Award
- The Department of State and Regional Development Events and Tourism Award
- The Kleenheat Gas Environment and Landcare Awards
- The Integral Energy Regional Service Award
“Across the district, there are many individuals, businesses, organizations and communities who have made a difference to social, environmental and economic prosperity within their communities, and they deserve to be recognized,” Mr Draper said.
“Nominated individuals or organisations have the opportunity to win exposure on Prime Television, or to share in $30,000 provided by the Commonwealth Bank.”
“In addition, all category winners receive a magnificent trophy,” he said.
Mr Draper said that without the efforts of such individuals and groups, the many communities across this district would not be as welcoming and pleasant as they are today.
“As an active and vibrant district there are many people worthy of nomination, and through these awards we can continue to strengthen and build on past community success, while recognising outstanding efforts that are behind the outcomes,” he said.
“Judging will take place on Friday 25th September, with the judging panel including representatives from award patrons, presenters, sponsors and community leaders.”
“The finalists and winners of the Regional Achievement and Community Awards will be announced at a gala awards presentation dinner in Bathurst on Saturday 31st October,” he continued.
For more information, interested persons can contact the awards office on 1300 735 445, or nominate online at www.awardsaustralia.com.
“It would be a fitting recognition of local effort should we see some worthy local recipients on the winners dais,” Mr Draper concluded.
Attorney General Will Be Asked To Increase Penalties For Desecration Of War Memorials
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, is calling on NSW Attorney General, John Hatzistergos, to increase penalties for people found guilty of desecrating War Memorials. Mr Draper has made the call following the latest mindless vandalism to a War Memorial at Kootingal.
“Such vandalism is an insult to the memory of every person who has served our nation, especially those who paid the supreme sacrifice, plus their families. In fact the whole community would view such an act as totally unacceptable,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper spoke in strong support of the War Memorial Legislation Amendment (Increased Penalties) Bill 2007, which was introduced shortly after another senseless attack upon war memorials at Tambar Springs and Mullaley in which two disabled Vickers machine guns were cut out of the memorials and stolen.
He said that the Bill, which amended the Summary Offences Act 1988, the Anzac Memorial (Building) Act 1923 and the Anzac Memorial (Building) By-laws 1937, doubled the maximum penalty for offences under the Summary Offences Act 1988 relating to protected places, including war memorials.
“This bill was introduced following a number of acts of vandalism across the state that outraged the community at that time,” Mr Draper said.
“The amendments doubled the maximum penalty for offences under the Anzac Memorial (Building) By-laws 1937, and doubled the maximum amount that a person who has been convicted of an offence under those by-laws could be ordered to pay for the repair or restoration of damage caused by the commission of their offence,” he said.
During his speech on the Bill, Mr Draper said that he strongly supported amendments put forward by the member for Epping that would further increase the penalties for such offences.
“The Government proposed to increase penalties under the Summary Offences Act 1988 to 40 penalty units, which is equivalent to $4,400, for anyone who wilfully defaces any protected place, including a war memorial, however the Coalition's policy was to increase the penalty to 100 penalty units, that is, $11,000,” he said.
“I thought the Opposition's proposal more accurately reflected community expectations in protecting our war memorials, as they also proposed to amend the Summary Offences Act 1988 to increase the penalties for the desecration of shrines, monuments and statues, including war memorials, to match those provided for the desecration of Aboriginal sites under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.”
“That would have seen the penalty increase from $2,200 for wilful damage or defacing a memorial, to $11,000. Committing any nuisance, offensive or indecent act in or on any war memorial would similarly have attracted an $11,000 penalty. I think that very much reflected community expectations,” he continued.
“I think it is time the Attorney General revisited the penalty levels as it is obvious that some people never learn, and the current laws are not acting as a deterrent” he said.
“I have been looking forward to sharing Anzac Day commemorations with the residents of Moonbi House, attending the Tamworth Dawn Service plus events at Currabubula and Werris Creek with community members to focus on remembering and honouring the deeds of Australian servicemen and women.”
“This latest act of mindless vandalism flys in the face of everything Australians commemorate on Anzac Day, and the community deserves action from the Attorney General to provide an appropriate deterrent,” Mr Draper concluded.
Let's Not Sell Lotteries - Just Remember Why They Were Started
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
1930
DECEMBER: State Lottery Bill Introduced
In late 1930, the newly elected State Government, led by Jack Lang, decided the only course of action to solve the critical funding situation in the States Hospitals was to start a State Lottery.
This was during the Great Depression when money was as scarce as jobs. Unemployment was nearly 30 per cent and queues of jobless people outside soup kitchens were a common sight. Poverty was increasing the sickness rate and authorities feared that hospitals would not be able to cope if further outbreaks such as the 1919 'flu epidemic occurred.
(From About NSW Lotteries - Corporate History web site)
Independent State Member for the Electorate of Tamworth, Peter Draper, believes the NSW Government is taking a dangerous gamble with its plan to sell off the NSW State Lotteries.
Mr Draper said gaming analysts have warned the State Government it could blow as much as $200 million of taxpayers' money by selling NSW Lotteries in a recession.
"I strongly oppose the sale of this assett, but to even suggest it given the current economic climate is just plain lunacy," he said.
"Unfortunately, the lotteries that were set up in 1930 for all the right reasons, have been used as a milking cow by successive Governments ever since."
"Just like in 1930, today many people are questioning how the hospital system will cope with finances into the future. There are claims the whole NSW budget will be needed by 2030 just to maintain health delivery at current levels, yet the Government is looking to sell off the lotteries, that were first designed to assist the health system, at a time when the sytem is screaming out for much needed investment," he continued.
Mr Draper said NSW Treasurer, EricRoozendaal, had said there was no public policy reason for the state to run NSW Lotteries, and money from the licence deal could be redirected into areas such as health and education.
"Hang on a minute! Why was the lottery set up in the first place in 1930 despite opposition at the time? " Mr Draper questioned.
To quote further from State Lotteries introductory page -
The announcement of a State Lottery created a political storm and was denounced by the Churches and the Opposition. Condemnation of the Lottery included comments such as, "Lotteries are evil and degrading" and that "It is going to demoralise the youth of our State".
Premier Lang told the Council of Churches that a State Lottery was no more appealing to him than it was to them but the reality was that unless money could be found some hospitals would have to close their doors.
"It appears that since 1930 the lotteries have developed as a milk cow, with further opportunities provided for gamblers every time a new financial black hole appears, yet the State has failed to stay on top of the original concept to fund the hospital system," Mr Draper said.
"This Government now wants to flog it off just to plug another black hole of their own making," he said.
"It is time to go back to the original concept - A State run lottery designed to fund essential public services such as the health system - and that is exactly what the public expects," Mr Draper concluded.
Leave Country Energy and Country Consumers Alone
Monday, April 20, 2009
State MP, Peter Draper, is warning the State Government it faces a massive backlash in rural and regional NSW if it slugs country residents to finance major infrastructure investment required in Sydney’s CBD electricity network.
“Last year a Premier was forced from office, resulting from one of the most acrimonious debates over the proposed sale of the State’s electricity assets that I have seen in politics,” Mr Draper said.
“The Government are still looking to sell off those assets, and some people are now questioning whether recent power failures in Sydney may have occurred in order to convince consumers that the system is on its last legs, and selling it is the only option to fix those problems,” he said.
Mr Draper pointed out that following the demise of the debacle that was NorthPower, Country Energy has invested many millions of dollars in the local region, and electricity supply was probably more secure than at any time in the past.
“Country Energy has invested around $40 million in the electricity network in the Northern region (New England and North West) during 2007-2008, and has plans to significantly increase its current investment levels over the next five years,” Mr Draper said.
He highlighted examples of network investment and maintenance projects started or completed in the last few years including:
- $1.1 million to install two new power transformers at Attunga Zone substation to increase the available capacity of the facility to meet current and future regional needs.
- $450,000 on a new 11,000-volt powerline to boost electricity supply for customers in the Tamworth area, supplying power to rural residential customers in the Hallsville area.
- $13 million to upgrade the existing Oxley Vale zone substation at Tamworth.
- $3.3 million regional recloser initiative in Country Energy's Northern region to improve reliability and flexibility of the network. (Operating in a similar way to household circuit breakers, reclosers form a vital part of Country Energy's public safety and powerline protection system. As soon as a recloser detects an overload or short circuit - caused, for example, by something like wildlife or branches striking a powerline- it acts as a safety device to shut power off from that point forward along the network.)
- $6.5 million to build a new zone substation at Goddard Lane in Tamworth, to provide a more secure supply and meet the increasing demand for electricity including the development of several large industrial loads. The project also provides support to Country Energy's existing zone substations - Oxley Vale, South Tamworth and Tamworth East.
“In addition, Country Energy has created more than 720 apprenticeships since it formed in 2001 and currently has 40 apprentices employed in the New England and North West, including 9 new recruits that commenced work in the region in January this year,” Mr Draper said.
In addition he said projects currently being undertaken by Transgrid across the electorate of Tamworth both at present, and planned for the future include:
- Uprating lines between Tamworth and Gunnedah. Cost: $8.4 million – complete by end of 2009
- Uprating the Tamworth to Armidale 330kV line for more capacity: Cost $6.3 million – estimated completion in January 2010
- Scada (system control and data automation) at Tamworth Sub station – Cost $1.7 million, Estimated completion Nov 2011
- SVC (Static Var Compensator) Tamworth/Armidale - Cost $39 million, estimated completion in November 2014
- Planned replacement of 132kV transformers in Tamworth Substation in next regulatory period (2009-14) with two larger units to accommodate growth in demand. Cost: $18 million – estimated to be completed in Nov 2012
“Country Energy have invested heavily in our region, despite the State Government reaping over $175 million in dividends from them in the last few years,” Mr Draper said.
“That investment has significantly improved the reliability of electricity supply throughout the area, and further plans should enhance it even further.”
“If the Government have failed to overseer appropriate investment in the Sydney CBD, they should not punish country residents for poor planning,” he said.
“The Liberal Party, much to the disgust of their supporters in big business, opposed last year’s sale of electricity assets, purely for short term political gain.”
“There is no saying they will oppose the sale again when it sticks its ugly head up again, and in fact Barry O’Farrell has intimated they are not opposed to a sale, merely to last year’s process.”
“Our electricity assets continue to be under threat, and the only certainty is that everybody will pay higher tariffs should the sale be allowed to proceed,” he continued.
“The message I am sending the Government on behalf of local constituents and the people of regional NSW is clear - leave Country Energy alone to get on with the job of improving electricity distribution in our region, and don’t slug country consumers because of mismanagement in the Sydney metropolitan area,” Mr Draper concluded.
No Plans By Government To Sell Farrer Land
Monday, April 20, 2009
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has received an assurance from the office of NSW Education Minister, Verity Firth, that there are no plans to sell any of the land at Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School.
Mr Draper received confirmation that there were no plans to sell any of Farrer’s land late last year, following announcements the Government planned to sell off 90% of the land surrounding Hurlstone Agricultural High School, in Sydney.
“I raised the issue last year, and contacted the Ministers office again today following media speculation over the weekend. On both occasions I have been assured that there are no plans to sell any of the land at Farrer,” Mr Draper said.
“What concerns me is that the very real threat to land at Hurlstone Agricultural High School is now being blurred by suggestions that schools around the state could be up for sale.”
“The NSW Education Department is one of the largest landholders in the country with around $28 billion of assets and in such circumstances it is to be expected that land will be bought and sold to meet changing demands.”
“I am not opposed to land surplus to requirements being sold to fund investment in school maintenance and infrastructure investment,” he said.
“However, we need to remain vigilante to ensure that land with significant commercial value isn’t sold simply to cover economic mismanagement by the government.”
“Obviously, for a cash strapped government, selling 140 hectares of Hurlstone Agricultural High School, in a rapidly expanding urban zone, probably seems like a huge jackpot, however the proposal is short sighted and certainly won’t improve educational outcomes,” he continued.
Mr Draper said that last year he met with Hurlstone students who expressed concern about the future of farming at Hurlstone and stressed the importance of continuing the practical aspects of agricultural education at the school.
“We have students from this area who attend Hurlstone. With Farrer High an all male school, Hurlstone provides opportunities for young women who wish to pursue a career in agriculture.”
“I suggest that now the Minister’s office has given assurances there are no plans to sell land at Farrer, political opportunists should focus their concerns on saving the land at Hurlstone, rather than further muddying the situation that surrounds the battle for this important educational asset,” he said.
“Provision of education is far more important than a tool to try and score some political points.”
“Although we have seen a much larger commitment of late, from both Federal and State authorities to invest in education, there is still much to achieve. I will continue to advocate for ongoing maintenance and improvements to educational facilities within the Electorate of Tamworth and those outside the region that cater for our residents,” Mr Draper concluded.
Crime Statistics Back Gunnedah’s Call For Increased Police Numbers
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, believes the latest data released by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, NSW Recorded Crime Statistics 2008, provides a powerful argument for increased police numbers in Gunnedah.
Mr Draper said the report provided comparisons in crime figures for the period from January 2007 to December 2008.
“Gunnedah has experienced spikes in break and enter of dwellings and motor vehicle theft that bucked a downward trend across NSW in these categories,” he said.
“Whilst NSW saw a state-wide fall of 5.9% and Tamworth a 20.1% fall in reported break and enter of dwellings, the Gunnedah Local Government area saw a rise of 54.7% in this category.”
“Lane Cove, Narrandera and Orange Local Government Areas were the only ones in NSW to record a higher increase than Gunnedah.”
Gunnedah residents reported 86 incidents in 2007 and that figure increased to 133 in 2008,” he said.
Mr Draper said both Tamworth and Gunnedah had seen increases in motor vehicle theft that again defied a state-wide decrease of 8.9%.
“Within the Gunnedah Local Government Area there was an increase of 80% while the figure for Tamworth was +82.3%,” he said.
“There were 20 incidents reported in Gunnedah in 2007 and that rose to 36 in 2008.”
“In Tamworth LGA that figure rose from 96 to 175,” he said.
Mr Draper said NSW Police Minister, Tony Kelly, had accepted his invitation to visit Tamworth and Gunnedah later this month to discuss policing issues.
“I will certainly be using these figures to argue with the Minister for an increase in police numbers and better targeting of offenders,” he said.
Mr Draper said that in the other 15 categories in the report both Gunnedah and Tamworth had remained steady or seen a decrease in offences with Tamworth recording a 20.1% decrease in break and enter of dwelling and a 25.6% decrease in steal from person.
He said of continuing concern were the number of domestic violence related assaults with Gunnedah recording 72 and Tamworth 271 during 2008.
“Whilst remaining fairly stable, the figures for non domestic related assault are also worrying with 140 reported in Gunnedah and 514 in Tamworth during 2008,” he continued.
“This information from the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research in addition to the information my office is compiling from our crime, law and order questionnaire provide some powerful ammunition to put to Minister Kelly, when he visits, for an improvement to police resources in our region,” Mr Draper concluded.
Local Coaches, Sports Officials and Athletes Benefit From Grant Schemes
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Local MP, Peter Draper, has announced that seventeen local coaches, sports officials and athletes have benefited from $13,050 in funding through the 2009 NSW Country Coaches and Officials Travel Scheme and 2009 Country Athletes Scheme.
“The Country Coaches and Officials Travel Scheme is designed to assist coaches and officials from country areas of NSW access opportunities to participate in educational courses that assist them gain or maintain required accreditation,” Mr Draper said.
“Richard Wills from Hockey NSW, Samuel Connell from the NSW Basketball Association and Matthew Arrua from the Northern NSW Football Federation have been successful in attracting funding through this scheme.”
“This will allow them to further their development and what they put back into their chosen field,” he said.
Mr Draper said The Country Athletes Scheme is designed to assist talented young athletes from country areas of NSW to gain access to training, coaching and competitions similar to those enjoyed by athletes from the city.
“Matthew Shone (Tamworth) BMX NSW Inc, Samuel Spokes (Tamworth) Cycling NSW, Emma Clifton (Loomberah), Ryan Betts (Tamworth) and Matthew Willis (Tamworth) Hockey NSW, Bradley Marshall (Tamworth) Indoor Sports NSW Inc, Scott Domis (Tamworth) NSW Country Junior Rugby Union, Alexa Wilkinson (Gunnedah) NSW Netball Association, Kimberley Resch (Tamworth) NSW Touch Association, Bradley MacKenzie (Tamworth) and William Kam (Tamworth) Northern NSW Football Federation, Mitchell Austin (Barraba) and Samuel Pryor (Gunnedah) Royal NSW Bowling Association and Samuel Schubert (Curlewis) Swimming NSW Ltd have been successful in obtaining grants,” he said.
“Athletes eligible to apply for the Country Athletes Scheme must meet a set of criteria including being 17 years of age or under as at 31 December, be competing at state-age level in their sport, be permanent residents of NSW, reside more than 150km radial distance from the old Sydney GPO and be registered, affiliated or have reciprocal rights with the recognised state body for the sport in NSW,” he continued.
“It is important all country coaches, officials and athletes are given the opportunity to compete with their city based cousins and it is obvious the successful applicants are deeply committed to their sport.”
“I wish them well as they continue to develop their sporting skills,” Mr Draper concluded.
Community Demand Protection From More Than Just Bikies
Thursday, April 9, 2009
While most people in NSW won’t go to bed at night or wake up in the morning thinking ‘I will be threatened by bikies today’, there are many people in the local community who do not feel safe in their own homes, and who consider certain parts of the community to be no-go zones,” according to Independent MP Peter Draper.
“While the community cost of organized crime is enormous with significant social implications, to many people in this district and around New South Wales, it is the impact of opportunistic crime and anti-social behaviour that affects residents quality of life,” he said.
Mr Draper said that an initial viewing of crime, law and order questionnaires returned to his office had indicated that personal security and anti-social behaviour were a major concern for many people.
“I would like to thank the almost 6,000 people who have responded to date. The high percentage of surveys being returned is a strong indication of the community’s interest and concern regarding this issue,” he said.
“I do not wish to pre-empt results before putting all the information into a database, however it is obvious that there are genuine community concerns that authorities need to address,” he said.
“As the concerns raised have state-wide implications, with some areas facing even greater challenges than us, I hope that decision makers can agree to take whatever steps are needed to provide the community with a sense of security, and to ensure the streets are safe,” he continued.
Mr Draper said he was concerned that many people considered the Tamworth CBD in particular, and to a lesser extent Gunnedah CBD, as no go zones, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights.
“The CBD is the heart of country communities, so it is unacceptable that a few people acting irresponsibly or unlawfully can result in people feeling this way,” he said.
Mr Draper pointed out that this phenomena was a problem in many countries, and he had seen the results of a survey of 30,000 adults in the north of England indicating that nearly half of those surveyed avoided their town centres at night.
“There is a need for urgent action to reverse these trends. What is the sense of councils beautifying their CBDs if people are afraid to go there?” Mr Draper asked.
He also said that many people felt parents had a critical role to play in ensuring their children acted with respect, and accepted responsibility for their individual actions.
“Respect and responsibility are qualities the community expects from adults, and are qualities that children must be taught from an early age,” he said.
“Many respondents have listed loud music, street racing and petty vandalism as actions that reduce their quality of life,” he said.
Mr Draper said that over the next few weeks all questionnaires would be databased to allow an extrapolation of figures based on individual communities to identify their particular concerns.
“The community have responded magnificently to the questionnaire, and my office is now in the process of preparing the results in such a way that the authorities will get a clear understanding of areas that genuinely concern the public and need attention,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: MP Peter Draper with some of the nearly 6,000 responses to his recently released Crime, Law and Order Questionnaire.
Public Hearing For Inquiry Into The NSW Planning Framework Coming To Tamworth
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Local MP, Peter Draper, has announced that a public hearing as part of the Inquiry Into The NSW Planning Framework will be held in Tamworth on Thursday 21 May 2009.
The inquiry is being conducted by the NSW Legislative Council Standing Committee on State Development.
This Inquiry was established to report on the NSW planning framework in the context of national and international planning trends, and has been taking submissions for some time,” Mr Draper said.
“The Committee are due to submit their report to Parliament by 14 December 2009.”
“The Committee will particularly consider the implications of the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) reform agenda for planning in NSW, climate change and natural resource issues in planning and development controls, plus any duplication of processes under relevant Commonwealth and NSW legislation,” he said.
Terms of Reference are:
- The need, if any, for further development of the NSW planning legislation over the next five years, and the principles that should guide such development
- The implications of the Council of Australian Government (COAG) reform agenda for planning in NSW
- Duplication of processes under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 and NSW planning, environmental and heritage legislation
- Climate change and natural resources issues in planning and development controls
- Appropriateness of considering competition policy issues in land use planning and development approval processes in NSW
- Regulation of land use on or adjacent to airports
- Inter-relationship of planning and building controls
- Implications of the planning system on housing affordability
“Planning has been and remains a contentious issue in NSW and the Planning Framework Inquiry provides an opportunity for all interested parties to contribute.”
“The Committee is conducting this public hearing in order to benefit from the knowledge, views or experience of local people and organizations regarding the planning framework,” Mr Draper said.
He said that if local people wish to attend or participate in the hearing, or provide a written submission, further information could be obtained from the Committee secretariat by phoning (02) 9230 3464. The e-mail address is statedevelopment@parliament.nsw.gov.au or the committee’s website www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/statedevelopment
“I encourage interested parties to have their say on this important issue by attending the public hearing in Tamworth and providing submissions,” Mr Draper concluded.
Nominations Now Open For 2009 Meritorious Service To Public Education and Training Award
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Local State MP, Peter Draper, is encouraging local community members to nominate local educators for the 2009 Meritorious Service to Public Education and Training Award.
He said that the Government had introduced the prestigious Meritorious Service to Public Education and Training Award in 2003 to celebrate outstanding achievements and contributions made by an individual to public education and training.
“Since its inception, the Award has recognized 10 men and women who have made exceptional contributions to public education and training in NSW,” Mr Draper said.
“Nominations are now open for the 2009 Award and any individual, community organization, professional body or similar group can nominate an individual for this Award in confidence,” he said.
Mr Draper said that since the award commenced in 2003, Dr Beryl Carmichael, Aboriginal Language Support Officer, Western NSW Region, had been a major recipient while Richard Blight, Band Master (volunteer), Kempsey East Public School and Rosemary Campbell, Director, TAFE NSW – Riverina Institute had received commendation awards.
“We have many exceptional educationalists in rural and regional areas, and their efforts can be recognized along side metropolitan based practitioners.”
“From our small one teacher schools, to our largest High Schools and TAFE campuses, I have witnessed a remarkable dedication to providing children with opportunities through the education process,” Mr Draper said.
“I am hoping there are local people who will be interested in nominating an individual who has impressed them for their commitment to education and training,” he said.
Mr Draper said nominations close on Friday 10 July 2009, with further information available at www.det.nsw.edu.au/awards/mspe.htm.
Enquiries can also be directed to Ms Sandra Jones, Leader, Promotions, Awards and Recognition on (02) 9244 5099
“Nominations can be made in confidence, and the information provided will only be used by the selection panel when considering the merits of a persons nomination for the Award.”
“This is a great way to appreciate and recognise someone who has added to the educational experience,” Mr Draper concluded.
Transport Audit a Step Towards Improving Local Options
Tuesday, April 6, 2009
The local Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has welcomed an undertaking that the NSW Government will undertake an audit of public transport services within the electorate of Tamworth, as the first step towards providing a co-ordinated timetable of connections and services.
The audit, which Mr Draper has sought as a precursor to improving local transport links, will also examine both existing and possible future links to Newcastle and Sydney to encourage increased patronage.
“I met with representatives from the Minister for Transport’s office in Parliament last week to discuss opportunities to improve and better co-ordinate local services. The meeting followed a recent speech in which I highlighted the difficulties country people face when trying to access essential services including health appointments, educational facilities like TAFE, or to go shopping, transport their kids, and for the unemployed to meet job search obligations,” Mr Draper said.
“There is a need for the smaller communities and rural areas to access their service centres, while an opportunity also exists to push for better connections to Newcastle and Sydney that would improve access to health services,” he said.
“As many services provided by Hunter New England Health require travel to Newcastle or Sydney, it would benefit residents if they could make a return trip to Newcastle in the one day using public transport.”
“I know of people who have deferred essential medical treatment because of the travel and accommodation costs, plus the lack of alternative transport options,” he continued.
Mr Draper is also examining the possibility of extending the Cityrail services that currently run between Newcastle and Scone onto Tamworth, to allow a one day return journey as a first step towards providing the community with a Tamworth to Newcastle “Sprinter” rail service.
“Such services could also offer travellers the option of changing onto the regular Newcastle to Sydney electric trains, and improving links from our district to the capital.”
“As an added bonus, they would also provide an option for people from the Hunter and further south to have a day in Tamworth, a move that I am sure our tourist industry would welcome enthusiastically,” he said.
“It is important to build on what is currently available, and co-ordinate existing public and community transport links to provide local connections that can link with services to Newcastle and Sydney.”
Mr Draper said he would continue pushing for a plan that included the need to expand services into new housing developments, provide links from each community to their service centre, establish public transport provision on Friday and Saturday nights to assist in crowd dispersal, plus establish better links to Newcastle and Sydney.
He pointed out that Ron Christie, the former head of State Rail and the RTA, and head of the Olympic Roads and Traffic Authority, who was widely acclaimed for the success of the 2000 Games, had recently said that the inability to commit to a long-term plan for transport was a critical failing that threatens the state's future.
“Mr Christie was mainly alluding to transport planning in Sydney, however, his comments have relevance state-wide, as it is recognised that there has been a lot less investment in rural and regional services, making our situation even more dire,” he said.
“I welcome the Ministers office agreeing to audit the current services on offer, as I believe that a better co-ordination of services and improved utilisation of transport resources could significantly improve travel links for local residents,” Mr Draper concluded.
Draper Welcomes Nearly $4 Million In Schools Infrastructure Funding
Sunday, April 4, 2009
State Member for the Electorate of Tamworth, Peter Draper, has welcomed funding of nearly $4 million dollars that will flow to schools throughout the electorate from the National School Pride Programme.
“At this time of global economic crisis this investment in our schools will not only improve the learning environment for our kids, it will also provide employment opportunities and more projects for local contractors.”
“Coupled with other stimulus initiatives I hope this package will breathe some more confidence into the local economy and help us weather the economic storm,” Mr Draper said.
“Along with other recent announcements in funding for educational facilities this co-operation between Federal and State authorities on such projects is the biggest maintenance and expansion programme undertaken in the last thirty years and is long overdue.”
“It will not only benefit current students, it will provide better facilities for those entering the system over the next decade or so,” he said.
Mr Draper said early information indicated the following schools around the electorate would benefit.
“A good education is a must in the 21st century and this investment, along with our dedicated teachers, is a good starting point to provide that for our kids,” Mr Draper concluded.
Federal Electoral Redistribution Should Not Cost Rural NSW Another Seat
Friday, April 3, 2009
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, is concerned that unless all parties are singing from the same song sheet, inland NSW may well lose another seat as part of the current Federal redistribution process.
The Australian Electoral Commissioner, Ed Killesteyn, announced earlier this year that based upon the latest population figures, the number of seats in NSW will fall to 48, while the number in Queensland will increase to 30.
“The Redistribution Committee opened their first round of public comment on Wednesday, with the consultation process closing at 6pm on Friday May 1,” Mr Draper said.
“Locally, the 2006 redistribution was extremely controversial, and despite many rural residents calling for the abolition of a Sydney seat, the end result was the abolishment of Gwydir,” he said.
Mr Draper pointed out that the enlarged seat of Parkes, which was created following the Gwydir’s demise in 2006, has a total area of 107,000 square kilometres.
“The Australian Electoral Commission originally planned for Parkes to cover some 376,000 square kilometres, showing that it is possible there could be a mega seat created during this current redistribution unless everybody in country communities are very vigilant and active on the issue,” he said.
Mr Draper said that current MP for Parkes, Mark Coulton, must pressure the Liberal Party to guarantee they will not recommend abolishing the Federal seat of Parkes in their submission.
“The Liberal Party’s 2006 submission to the Electoral Commissioner recommended abolishing Gwydir, and their wish was granted. One side of the Coalition was rushing around the bush organising rallies to prevent Gwydir disappearing, while the other side was making submissions to the Electoral Commissioner that it should go,” he said.
“There are strong rumours at present that the Liberals may support the abolition of Kay Hull’s seat of Riverina, or put forward the seat of Parkes for the chop.”
“I am afraid this may be more about the tactical battle between the Liberals and Nationals to determine who will ultimately provide the conservative voice in rural politics, but sadly their internal squabbling fails to consider what is in the best interests of rural voters,” he said.
“Similarly, Country Labor members must also be putting pressure on their Party to make sure another rural seat is not lost,” he continued.
Mr Draper said that it was critical that the people of rural NSW have their views heard on this issue, and he encouraged all country residents to make their thoughts loud and clear.
“I encourage everybody to examine details of the NSW redistribution process at www.aec.gov.au or by calling 1300 391 039,” he said.
“All country people, and all sides of politics, must pull together to prevent another rural seat from being lost,” Mr Draper concluded.
Garling Recommendations - Proof of the Pudding will be in the Eating
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
According to Independent State MP, Peter Draper, the proof of the pudding will be in the eating regarding the Government’s response to the Garling Special Commission of Inquiry into Acute Care Services in NSW Public Hospitals.
“The pressures faced by the system in meeting public expectations of health delivery have been highlighted in the Garling report, and the Government has accepted 134 of its 139 recommendations,” Mr Draper said.
“The Government has announced three stages of responses over an eighteen month period supported by an additional $485 million, but only time will tell if that investment and the proposed reform process will bring about significant improvements that the community expects,” he said.
Mr Draper said the Garling Inquiry has provided the potential to deliver better outcomes for both patients and staff, provided the recommendations are introduced appropriately.
He said Health Minister, John Della Bosca, had announced that the first stage, commencing immediately, would be aimed at rebuilding trust and demonstrating a commitment to improving the health care system so patient experiences are safe, competent and compassionate.
“This stage includes appointing nurses/midwives in charge on every ward, ward based clinical support officers, an increased clinical pharmacy role, enhancing allied health numbers to support after hours care in critical areas, plain language information to patients when they are discharged, and the abolition of IPTAAS contribution for pensioners and health care card holders.”
“Education is considered essential, and Stage I will target inter-professional education programmes for new graduates, dedicated teaching time for Directors of Clinical Training, support for allied health education, expansion of rural medical positions to allow progressive compulsory rural placement for doctors in years two and three, additional trainee specialist positions in rural areas, expansion of hospital training and a redesign of the workforce.”
“Additionally it aims to strengthen local decision making through a new clinical medical directors role in major metropolitan and rural hospitals/hospital networks, a review of hospitals aimed at linking community needs with workforce capacity to deliver safer patient care, better local information and delegation, plus publishing performance criteria to staff. This will be supported by new models of care including extra clinical initiative nurses to work with the Australian Medical Association, Australian Salaried Medical Officers Federation and the NSW Emergency Care Taskforce in assisting emergency department doctors to make admission decisions.”
“Importantly, it will also assist in developing a new framework to support culture change and address bullying and harassment through front line advisors,” he said.
Mr Draper said that in Stages II and III, consultation on implementing an Institute of Clinical Education and Training, plus a Clinical Innovation and Enhancement Agency would begin.
“It will agree on the best way to implement NSW Kids, Triage Changes (which have been referred to the Australian Health Ministers’ Council), implement patient care committees at each facility, undertake audits of waiting lists, a review of key performance indicators, a continued roll out of Medical Assessment Units, a review of the effectiveness of primary care centres adjacent to Emergency Departments, a review of bed occupancy rates, a central state-wide assets register, plus implement the allied health coordinator roles.”
“We have seen millions of dollars spent identifying the problems, so now the Government will be judged on its ability to implement the recommendations and deliver the desired results,” Mr Draper concluded.
Abysmal State Of Public Transport Must Be Addressed
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
“For a developed nation in the twenty-first century, the provision of public transport in rural and regional areas is abysmal,” Independent State MP Peter Draper has told State Parliament.
“I often hear metropolitan members of Parliament such as the member for Baulkham Hills who we have just heard speak complain about transport shortfalls in their area, and I can sympathise with city commuters facing traffic jams or having to travel on buses where rail extensions should have been built,” he told the House.
“However, in many rural and regional areas, public transport is virtually non-existent,” he said. “Tamworth is a regional city with an urban population of over 42,000 and yet there is no public transport, apart from taxis, to disperse crowds from entertainment venues most Friday and Saturday nights,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper believes that while the media in general have highlighted the anti social behavioural problems faced by communities both large and small, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights, the State Government has largely failed to provide the necessary transport that could disperse potential trouble.
Mr Draper has been a long time advocate of improving public transport to meet the social need for mobility in country areas to assist those unable to drive or access a vehicle. He said it was not acceptable so many people find it difficult to access essential services such as health appointments, attend educational facilities like TAFE, to go shopping or get the kids around, or for the unemployed to meet job search obligations. He also said that Government largely ignores the realities of an ageing population plus the communities environmental concerns.
“I welcomed the recent introduction of pensioner Regional Excursion Daily [RED] tickets for country seniors as a positive step to remove the long-term transport discrimination they faced compared to their city cousins. But this initiative has highlighted many problems that must be addressed when providing public transport for rural and regional residents,” Mr Draper said.
He told Parliament that when examining transport options in country areas there are clear distinctions in services. School bus services are either A contracts, the old non-commercial contracts, or B contracts, which are mostly town-orientated services. A contracts are not RED ticket eligible, while B contracts are. Mr Draper highlighted the discrepancies in the system, which sees potential passengers from Boggabri to Gunnedah being unable to use the RED tickets on buses, while passengers from Breeza and Curlewis can use them to get to Gunnedah without any additional charges.
Gunnedah residents can travel to Lake Keepit with a RED ticket, however, the connecting bus to Tamworth is an A contract where RED tickets are unavailable. He also said that the only public transport option for Gunnedah residents is a roundabout train trip to Werris Creek, and then a change onto the Tamworth Buslines service to Tamworth.
“When people reach Tamworth they have less than an hour and a half to do their business before catching the bus again for the long return trip home. I challenge members to try to get from Gunnedah to Tamworth hospital for a medical appointment under those time restrictions. It is impossible!” Mr Draper told the Parliament.
Mr Draper said the Government had a responsibility to address the discrepancies in rural and regional areas to allow all bus services to carry seniors and other travellers who cannot access a car. “Until the problem is fixed, health services, educational facilities, including TAFE, and many other essential services remain out of reach for far too many country people. Country taxpayers need public transport, and they deserve to have a reliable and usable service,” Mr Draper concluded.
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