Media Releases August 2005
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Draper calls for more volunteers as he joins today’s Meals on Wheels delivery run
31 August 2005
Tamworth Meals on Wheels (MOW) clients will have the chance to chew the fat on State politics today when the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, knocks on their door to deliver lunch.
Mr Draper is volunteering his time as part of National Meals on Wheels Building Stronger Communities Day today and will deliver 23 meals on one of 11 delivery runs Tamworth MOW undertakes each day.
“Tamworth Meals on Wheels has 278 clients and delivers on average 230 meals a day which makes a big difference to the lives of many elderly and disabled people in our community,” Mr Draper said.
“I would urge anyone who can spare an hour a day to contact Tamworth MOW as the experience is highly rewarding and your efforts will be greatly appreciated.
Mr Draper has been assigned to a 90-minute delivery run and will be accompanied by Tamworth MOW President Laurie Beattie who said the service depended upon those who were willing to give up their time to deliver meals.
Mr Beattie said MOW also prepared meals for clients in Moonbi, Kootingal and Nundle as well as the Rotary Respite Aged Care Day Centre with overall demand increasing each year.
Mr Draper said he was highly supportive of the organisation and was actively lobbying the NSW Government to contribute further funds to a new state-of-the-art Tamworth MOW kitchen planned at The Salvation Army site on Goonoo Goonoo Rd, Tamworth.
“The Government has already contributed $220,000 to the $745,000 raised with assistance from community organisations such as the Tamworth Lions Club. The target is $1.3million which I believe is achievable,” he said.
Photo, from left,Tamworth Meals on Wheels client May Taylor had nothing but praise for the MOW service which delivers daily meals to her door when meeting Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, and Tamworth MOW President Laurie Beattie who delivered meals as part of the National Meals on Wheels ‘Building Stronger Communities Day on 31 August 2005.
Draper calls for guarantee of service as refuge closes its doors to women in crisis
30 August 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has called for a guarantee from the NSW Department of Community Services that the safety of women and children in crisis will not be put at risk as a result of the temporary closure of the Tamworth Women’s Refuge.
Mr Draper said the refuge’s management committee closed the doors of the State Government-funded service on Friday, 26 August, after dismissing six staff members.
“The closure forced two women staying at the refuge to move out, however, I understand they have since been provided with alternative accommodation,” Mr Draper said.
“I have been informed that a dedicated worker from the Tamworth Family Support Service will broker services from other crisis accommodation providers to ensure any woman needing assistance is looked after in the short term,” Mr Draper said.
“I remain concerned, however, that women and children in crisis could be disadvantaged as the refuge will remain closed and alternatives will have to be found until the management committee resolves this workforce issue.
Mr Draper said he was also concerned about the future of the refuge’s six employees and was seeking information from relevant parties relating to the circumstances of their dismissal to ensure correct procedures had been followed.
Mr Draper said the refuge played a vital role in the community providing women and families facing domestic and accommodation crises with a safe and secure place to go. He said the latest DOCs figures revealed more than 90 women and their children sought accommodation at the refuge in 2003/2004.
“The reason women seek support at the refuge is because they see no alternative. Their own options are either untenable or would expose themselves or their children to the risk of violence.
“The refuge also provides an important referral service for other departments such as police and housing and I intend to monitor the situation closely to ensure the interim arrangements are not disadvantaging people and are in fact meeting the need.
Mr Draper has made direct representations to the NSW Minister for Community Services, Reba Meagher, demanding an explanation for the closure and what alternatives will be provided for women and children in need of crisis accommodation.
“The Department of Community Services is the funding body for the refuge and I have asked the Minister for a guarantee that there will be a continuity of services,” he said.
“I have been given an assurance the Department is working closely with the management committee to see that new and ongoing arrangements are put in place as soon as practicable.
“The next step is for the management committee to provide a long-term solution and re-open the refuge as quickly as possible,” he said.
Photo: Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, speaks at a rally in Tamworth on 30 August 2005 in support of the Tamworth Women’s Refuge which the community has demanded must remain open. Pictured on stage is Local Organiser for the Australian Services Union Kathryn Brooks.
Tamworth MP to learn tricks of the retail trade at Blowes Menswear
30 August 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, spent this morning becoming acquainted with operations at one of Tamworth’s most successful retail businesses, Blowes’ Menswear, as part of the Pollies for Small Business Program.
Organised locally by the Tamworth and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Pollies for Small Business is a joint initiative of the Statewide Chamber of Commerce network and Australia Post and invites politicians to donate time to work in a small business in their electorate in recognition of Small Business Month in September.
Mr Draper said this morning he was looking forward to spending time with the staff and customers of Blowes’ Menswear – a store which had remained in ownership of the Blowes’ family in Tamworth for three generations.
”The Tamworth shop is one of three Blowes Menswear stores owned by Brendon Blowes with the other outlets in Armidale and Dubbo. Mr Blowes also owns a clothing retail outlet in Tamworth which is aimed at the younger generation called URXS. Together the businesses make a significant contribution to the regional economy employing 15 full time staff as well as a number of casual employees,” Mr Draper said.
He said Blowes’ Menswear was established in Tamworth in 1936 by Brendon’s grandfather, Cyril, who sold the business to Brendon’s father, Warwick, with Brendon purchasing operations several years ago.
Mr Draper said the opportunity to work at Blowes would provide valuable insight into issues specific to retail business owners and given the endurance of Blowes’ Menswear on Tamworth’s business landscape, the secrets to running a successful business in regional NSW.
“Even though I am a regular customer of Blowes, I am looking forward to discussing issues and becoming better acquainted with staff and customers,” Mr Draper said.
Photo: Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, worked at Blowes Menswear Tamworth alongside store manager Paul Ajani as part of Pollies for Small Business - an activity organised by the Tamworth and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry to celebrate Small Business Month in September.
Brogden’s resignation the right move: Draper
29 August 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has supported the decision taken by John Brogden to resign as leader of the NSW Liberal Party following his racial slurs and inappropriate behaviour exhibited at a public function earlier this month.
“In today’s modern society, the insulting comments Mr Brogden directed toward the former NSW Premier’s wife, Helena Carr, are completely out of touch with community expectations of how a political leader should behave. Similarly, sexual harassment is not condoned by society and should not be tolerated.
“I believe he has done the right thing in announcing his resignation as his apology does not excuse his actions. I wish his successor well in the run up to the next State election in 2007,” he said.
Education the key to addressing OH&S fears
26 August 2005
The appointment of a WorkCover NSW safety adviser in Tamworth will be good news to farmers in particular due to the difficulties they face complying with NSW occupational health and safety laws, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
The NSW Premier has announced a $650,000 boost to WorkCover’s advisory service at the Workplace Safety Summit currently underway in Orange. The package includes the appointment of six regional advisory officers, one of which will be based in Tamworth.
Mr Draper said he has been approached by numerous people in farming and related industries who are striving to comply with the state’s stringent OH&S regulations but feel reluctant to approach WorkCover for fear of prosecution.
“There is a lot of anxiety and confusion about OH&S among employers, especially farmers, in terms of what measures they must adopt and to what extent in order to avoid breaching the regulations and fulfilling their obligations under the law.
“In January this year I called for WorkCover to provide clearer guidelines and focus on education rather than enforcement and I am pleased to see this package emerge. The business and farming communities need practical advice and reassurance so they can create safe work places and get on with business unhindered by regulatory restraints.
“I know of property owners who have stopped running charity functions for communities, emergency services, pony clubs and field days due to the OH&S minefield such activities present. The regulations, which are currently under review, are too restrictive and I am hopeful the pending overhaul of the OH&S Act combined with improved education and advisory services will restore common sense to the application of OH&S laws to rural life.
Mr Draper said WorkCover NSW already had a district co-ordinator based in Tamworth who carried out an inspection and advisory role. The new officer will be empowered only to provide advice and education to employers and employees in regard to OH&S obligations.
“Rural-based WorkCover inspectors generally adopt a helpful, proactive approach in their role, however, the majority of people I speak to remain suspicious and anxious about seeking advice due to the stringent nature of the regulations,” he said.
$10,000 bursary up for grabs in NSW Rural Women’s Awards 2006
25 August 2005
If you know a woman with a passion for agriculture and rural communities you should consider nominating her for the NSW RIRDC Rural Women’s Award 2006, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
“The national award is presented in each state and territory and provides women who are keen to develop enterprise in rural industry, on the land or in the community, with an opportunity to do so,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the award recognised the skills and talents of women in the community who make a valuable contribution to the development of agricultural industry through hard work, original thinking and a capacity to overcome adversity.
“The Award provides a $10,000 bursary which each winner can use to achieve their vision and enhance their skills by attending courses, furthering studies or publishing work. Even though the Award recognises past achievement, it provides an incentive for women to continue making a difference to agriculture through leadership and innovation.
“It would be wonderful to see nominations in this region and I am encouraging the community to get behind those women in our community whose contribution to their chosen field in agriculture has been outstanding,” he said.
The Award, which is sponsored by The Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC), is open to all women involved in agriculture including forestry, fisheries, natural resource management and related service industries.
Applications close on 15 October 2005 with the winner and runner up for NSW announced at a special Awards Gala Dinner in Sydney in February 2006. Information on how to nominate is available from Mr Draper’s office.
Official opening of new New England Hereford Club site at AgQuip
24 August 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper officially opened a new site featuring the New England Hereford Club at the Commonwealth Bank AgQuip in Gunnedah today.
The site has been set up in association with the Australian Hereford Society and will see Hereford make a return to AgQuip as an exhibit after an absence of many years.
“I was delighted to accept the invitation from the New England Hereford Club President Tonia Mason as a diversity of exhibitors only adds to the enjoyment of the AgQuip experience for visitors. The field day is an important economic event for Gunnedah and I look forward to being involved.
Mr Draper said the Hereford breed comprised 30 per cent of the national beef herd and was noted for its docility, suitability to varied climatic conditions and eating quality.
“The new site, which presents the modern face of Hereford, will add to the range of beef cattle displays at AgQuip and I wish the Club every success in its bid to raise the profile of what has proved to be an enduring and popular breed,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the site was the initiative of the New England Hereford Club which was celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and had a membership of around 70 graziers in both stud and commercial Hereford production.
He said the site would be voluntarily manned by Club members with special guests at the official opening including Australian Hereford Society General Manager Geoff Taylor and board directors Peter Croker and Keith Miles.
Photo: Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper (right) officially opened the New England Hereford Club site at AgQuip Wednesday (24 August 2005) at the invitation of Australian Hereford Society General Manager Geoff Taylor and New England Hereford Club President Tonia Mason.
Manilla’s Volunteer Rescue Association gets mobile with new rescue vehicle
24 August 2005
A combination of community fundraising, government funds and a donation by ClubsNSW has delivered a new $45,000 rescue vehicle to the Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) Squad in Manilla, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
The squad invited Mr Draper to attend the commissioning of the 13tonne Isuzu by the NSW Minister for Emergency Services, Tony Kelly, at the VRA headquarters in Station St, Manilla.
“The Manilla VRA is the primary response rescue unit for Manilla and district and is on call to assist in all rescues. This vehicle, which doubles the squad’s capacity to carry equipment, will ensure members can continue to play a critical role in responding to emergencies such as road and industrial accidents, and rescues associated with the local paragliding club,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the squad consisted of 10 active rescue personnel, six accredited operators and four trainees as well as numerous community members who made themselves available as ‘helpers’.
“The squad is to be congratulated on its fundraising efforts and for adopting such a hands on approach. Members dedicated their time and skills to weld, paint, wire and fix signage on the rescue vehicle indicating the level of dedication and pride within the ranks.
“The unit has a 30-year history and a high profile in the district not only for its primary rescue function but due to its contribution to events such as first aid at sporting fixtures and lighting provision or traffic control at local community events.
Mr Draper said $20,000 in funding was secured through an application to the NSW Government-funded VRA Capital Grant Program. Community donations and fundraising by the Manilla VRA Squad raised $15,000 and ClubsNSW donated the remaining $10,000.
“This is yet another community project to benefit from support of the club movement. Should the NSW Government fail to roll back the prohibitive level of pokie tax clubs are paying, the capacity they have to support such projects in the future will be compromised,” he said.
Photo: Celebrating the commissioning, Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper MP, NSW Minister for Emergency Services Tony Kelly, Manilla Volunteer Rescue Association Squad President Robert Sutherland, Tamworth Regional Council Mayor James Treloar and NSW Volunteer Rescue Association State President Ray Gill.
Support for respite house gains momentum
23 August 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, will renew pressure on the State Government to fund a facility to give respite to more than 100 people with disabilities and their families from across the north-west region.
Mr Draper said he would lobby the newly appointed Premier, Morris Iemma, to provide funding for the Allawah House Respite Centre which will be built on a vacant lot in North Tamworth by Challenge Disability Services.
“Challenge is pushing ahead with its plans to construct the $800,000 facility which has been adopted by Tamworth Rotary clubs as a primary fundraising project. To date $420,000 has been raised including contributions from Rotary, Challenge itself, Joblink Plus, Friends of Challenge and the community,” Mr Draper said.
“It’s time the Government made a contribution to this important project. The Premier needs to recognise the timeliness of Allawah House as there is a high demand for respite in the north-west with the burden of care for people with intellectual or physical disabilities being carried squarely by families and their carers.
“It is vital for everyone concerned that family members of people with disabilities are given a break from their caring role. Unfortunately respite services in the north-west are so stretched that families are waiting for up to 12 months just to have one weekend of reprieve. This is placing enormous pressure on people and impacting on their quality of life not to mention their ability to cope.
“The public response to the project has been remarkable with more than half the costs already pledged or accounted for. I am hopeful this big show of support will convey a strong message to Mr Iemma that this facility is sorely needed within the community.
Mr Draper extended his congratulations to Rotary for its efforts as its members and Challenge launched the beginning of work on the foundations of Allawah House in Tamworth today. Mr Draper has extended an invitation to the Premier to visit the electorate as a matter of priority and will seek a meeting to discuss the Allawah project when Parliament resumes next month.
Call for nominations of community-minded seniors for State Awards
17 August 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, is calling for nominations of senior citizens who have made a significant contribution to the quality of life in the Tamworth electorate for the 2006 NSW Seniors Week Achievement Awards.
The NSW Seniors Week Achievement Awards program is administered by the NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care and is a key component of Seniors Week which will be celebrated between 2 – 9 April next year.
“The Awards provide the community with an ideal opportunity to give a well-deserved pat on the back to our valued senior members and to recognise the enormous contribution they make to the development of our community through their leadership and initiative,” Mr Draper said.
The Awards are open to groups and individuals across a number of categories including: Education/Life-long learning, Health and Well-being, Intergenerational Understanding, Community Service and Volunteering, Environment and Science, and Business Mentoring.
“Seniors are the glue that keeps communities together. One only has to look at the membership of volunteer groups, service clubs and charity organisations to appreciate their level of involvement and the amount of work they do, much of which goes unrecognised.
“You may know someone who has gone the extra mile in helping out at a local school, raised funds for a worthy cause, embarked on an environmental project or generously given their time to provide a service to others. If so, contact my office for a nomination form for the 2006 NSW Seniors Week Achievement Awards,” he said.
Mr Draper said all nominations received a certificate with winners chosen by an independent panel and presented with awards at a ceremony in Sydney at the launch of NSW Seniors Week.
Nominations close at 5pm on Friday, 7 October, 2005.
Window of opportunity draws to a close on OH&S reform
17 August 2005
Employers, employees and interested parties have until Friday, 19 August, 2005 to lodge a submission into the review of NSW’s occupational health and safety laws, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
“The timeframe for the review of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 is rapidly concluding and I am hopeful those people in the Tamworth electorate who expressed strong interest in making comment will have submissions lodged with WorkCover NSW by the deadline,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said he was greatly encouraged by the number of people who attended a public information session WorkCover held in Tamworth last month to discuss the review of the Act and gain feedback on the workability and application of the legislation.
“Many people took the opportunity to comment on feedback sheets that were available on the day while others indicated they would take the time to respond to the issues raised in the discussion paper WorkCover released to assist the review.
“Following the forum, my office received a large number of inquiries from people requesting copies of the discussion paper and I hope those individuals and members of the business community have managed to put pen to paper and comment constructively.
Mr Draper said he has forwarded submissions to the review on behalf of the community and expected the majority to be sent directly to WorkCover.
“I have spoken to many employers who were keen to have a say as they find the laws difficult to comply with and virtually indefensible in the face of a prosecution. The Tamworth and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry has also been very proactive in generating input to the review. I expect the number of submissions to the review will increase as the deadline closes,” he said.
Communities celebrate brigade upgrades
16 August 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has welcomed State Government funding of more than $100,000 for two new rural fire brigade stations in Gowrie and Loomberah.
“The stations were officially opened on the weekend and will provide local rural fire service volunteers with much better facilities from which to base responses to fire emergencies in the Tamworth district,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the total construction cost for the Loomberah RFS Station amounted to $68,000 with the Loomberah Hall Committee and the former Parry Shire Council contributing to the cost of the amenities which are shared with the Loomberah Hall.
He said the new station facilities at Gowrie, which features two bays, was built at a cost of $47,268 with new amenities also to be shared by the local hall.
“Both brigades contain active and enthusiastic members who play a vital role in safeguarding life and property against fire in the communities of Gowrie and Loomberah.
“The brigades have almost 60 volunteers between them and I am pleased to see the Government recognise the importance of providing adequate infrastructure to rural fire services in the smaller centres, “ he said.
Action must follow talks on poker machine tax
15 August 2005
The NSW Premier Morris Iemma’s decision to meet with ClubsNSW today to discuss concerns about the crippling impact of the escalating poker machine tax is a step in the right direction, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
The contentious tax, which is subject to staggered increases until 2010, is due to rise again on 1 September 2005 prompting renewed industry calls for its review.
“Mr Iemma’s willingness to meet with ClubsNSW to discuss the impact of the poker machine tax on their viability and ability to support the community is positive as it suggests there is room for negotiation and hopefully a more realistic deal,” Mr Draper said.
“In combination, registered clubs in the Tamworth electorate are already paying hundreds of thousands of dollars through this tax and the Government needs to acknowledge its impact not only on their sustainability but on the communities they generously support.
“It’s important the Premier recognises the number of jobs registered clubs provide in rural communities and the significant contribution they make to sporting and community life through sponsorship and donations. It is also imperative that gaming revenue taxes are returned to local communities and not distributed against their interests.
Mr Draper said he had thrown his full support behind the club movement in its bid to redress the tax stating that further rises would impact hardest on rural clubs and in a flow-on effect on country communities.
“It’s an important issue for rural communities as clubs contribute so much to services and infrastructure. At least Mr Iemma appears to be listening but the proof will be in what action he takes.
“I have invited Mr Iemma to visit the electorate as soon as practicable in his new role and the concerns of local clubs over this tax will be one focus of discussion. I am supportive of any move which will deliver employment and job security in rural communities,” he said.
$20,000 for Youth in Sport programs in Tamworth
August 5, 2005
The NSW Government will provide almost $20,000 in funding to PCYC clubs in Tamworth and Gunnedah, Member for Tamworth Peter Draper announced today.
He said that the funding under the Youth in Sport program would support the following projects:
- Gunnedah PCYC - $7400 for Skilled for Life
- Tamworth PCYC - $6365 for Sports Fest
- Tamworth PCYC - $5730 for Choose Your Future
Mr Draper said Skilled for Life was a 13-week program incorporating a variety of different sporting activities including bush walking, orienteering, touch football and volleyball.
“A broad educational component is also included with workshops on drug and alcohol abuse, anger and stress management, suicide prevention, career development, cooking and nutrition,” he said.
Mr Draper said Sports Fest was a 21-week program focussing on alcohol and drug education workshops and advice on healthy lifestyles and nutrition.
He said Choose Your Future would start with a three-day camp followed by an 11-week program where young people would be introduced to two local sports and a fitness centre.
“Participants will also learn about constructing a balanced diet plan and the effects of drugs, alcohol, food and exercise on their bodies,” Mr Draper said.
The Youth in Sport program is a partnership between the NSW Government and the PCYC to help young people at risk of coming into contact with the juvenile justice system. End release.
Nominate your water safety hero
August 5, 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper today called on local communities to nominate people who have helped improve water safety in New South Wales.
Mr Draper said the State Government and AUSTSWIM NSW were seeking nominations from outstanding individuals, communities, schools and businesses for the NSW Water Safety Awards, to be held next month.
“Many potential nominees would have been working quietly behind the scenes for years to benefit their communities,” Mr Draper said.
“It’s time these people received recognition for their work in improving water safety.”
The Awards are presented by AUSTSWIM NSW – an independent body funded by the State Government to train swimming teachers to industry-level standards.
Applications for the awards close on Friday, September 2, 2005, with the winners to be announced in Sydney on September 21st.
Nominees are being sought in a number of Award categories including:
- Major Contribution to Water Safety
- Water Safety Event of the Year
- Rescue of the Year
- Research Project of the Year
- Volunteer Lifesaver or Lifeguard of the Year
- Professional Lifeguard of the Year
- Significant Contribution to Water Safety by an Individual
- Significant Contribution to Water Safety by an Organisation
- Outstanding Media Service to Water Safety
- Community Education Program of the Year
For further details of award categories and nomination forms, go to the websites: www.austswimnsw.com.au or www.safewaters.nsw.gov.au or contact AUSTSWIM NSW on 1300 885 666.
Joint effort secures new fridge for Kingswood Fire Brigade
4 August 2005
A joint effort between Member for Tamworth Peter Draper and the New England Credit Union will see the Kingswood Rural Fire Brigade take delivery of a new fridge before the summer kicks in.
The Brigade’s Equipment Officer Eleanora Mostern approached Mr Draper to help find $899 to replace the old fridge that refused to work.
As Ms Mostern said jokingly in her letter to Mr Draper seeking assistance, “We have tried desperately to resuscitate the old fridge, but unfortunately it has flatlined, and we cannot kick start it, even with assistance from a defibrillator!"
“Fortunately, the request for help arrived just after I had met with NECU CEO Kevin Dupe regarding their Community Support Program,” Mr Draper said.
“I was delighted that the needs of the Fire Brigade and the guidelines for the Program meshed so successfully and that this funding has been made available.
“The Kingswood Brigade has between 15 and 20 members in a rapidly growing area and its volunteers provide a vital service for the community.”
Brigade members were constantly fundraising for important pieces of equipment and it was pleasing to see that some of the burden could be relieved through the sponsorship program, Mr Draper said.
“The community is often unaware of the enormous number of hours our fire fighting volunteers devote to the service,” he pointed out.
“We all gain from their efforts and it is pleasing to see a local business prepared to contribute in this way. Retravision has also kindly provided a discounted price for the purchase of the refrigerator.
“I will certainly be forwarding many requests to NECU for projects in our region which meet the guidelines,” Mr Draper concluded.
NSW Flag Presentation to Carinya Gunnedah
August 3, 2005
Member for Tamworth Peter Draper presented a State flag and a book detailing the history of the NSW Parliament to Carinya Christian School’s Principal Steve Lyne in front of a school assembly in Gunnedah yesterday.
Mr Draper addressed the assembly regarding the three tiers of Government in Australia and spoke of the role he plays in the NSW Parliament as the Member for Tamworth.
“Of all the things I do representing the electorate of Tamworth, by far my favourite is visiting schools,” Mr Draper said.
“It was uplifting to see the enthusiasm clearly obvious in both the students and teachers at Carinya,” he said.
“I was fortunate enough to be able to present a cheque to the school recently on behalf of Environment Minister Bob Debus recognising the schools efforts in developing a vegetable garden maintained by the students as a means of raising money for worthwhile causes.
“I was delighted to be invited back to give a brief introductory speech on Government, and look forward to maintaining a close relationship with Carinya Christian School into the future,” he concluded.
Photo: Carinya students John Allen (left) and Jake Geraghty (right) with Principal Steve Lyne (second from left) and Peter Draper MP.
Tourism to Benefit from Program
August 2, 2005
Government assistance is being offered to help local communities attract the necessary funds to host special events and festivals next year under a program run by Tourism NSW, Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
“Tourism NSW is seeking expressions of interest for the 2006 Regional Flagship Events Program that may deliver valuable funding to the successful applicants.” Mr Draper said.
“The first step towards gaining funding for regional events being held between January 1st and December 31st 2006 is to contact Tourism NSW through their website www.tourism.nsw.gov.au and request an information and application package.
“If proposals pass the first tests, event organisers will then be asked to present more detailed applications. At this stage Tourism NSW are seeking expressions of interest to gauge potential demand,” Mr Draper said.
“I would urge local tourism co-ordinators and councils to submit their expressions of interest by 5pm on August 15th.
“As with most funding of this nature, there are prerequisites to meet, and paperwork to be filled out however it is certainly an initiative worth exploring,” Mr Draper said.
Unique opportunity to fix the problems
August 1, 2005
Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has called on Premier-elect Morris Iemma to address a number of issues of concern to residents of regional and rural NSW as soon as he take on the role of Premier.
Mr Draper believes Mr Iemma is uniquely positioned to remove many of the barriers to prosperity in country communities imposed by the Carr Government in recent years.
“In my dealings with Morris Iemma I have found him sympathetic to community concerns, and as Health Minister he proved that he was willing to not only listen but also act to remedy problems,” Mr Draper said.
“Following a concerted campaign by the Gunnedah community over the appalling state of the Ambulance station, Mr Iemma listened to the community and allocated funding to construct a new purpose built facility on the hospital site that will meet the long-term needs of the local officers.
“He also listened to the need for ongoing capital investment in Tamworth’s intensive care unit, Gunnedah’s medical centre and staff accommodation, plus the current development of Walcha’s new MPS hospital.
“I would like to see Mr Iemma take the same attitude of listening to the community into his new role as Premier, and act on the legitimate concerns raised by local business regarding unworkable Occupational Health and Safety legislation that is under review at present,” Mr Draper continued.
“I would also urge an immediate retraction of the poker machine taxes that are crippling the club movement in NSW, as well as the abolishment of the ridiculous vendor duty on investment property that has forced investors interstate and jeopardised many retirement plans for country people.”
With support for the Government dropping rapidly due to many decisions adversely affecting country people, Mr Draper believes the new Premier should be willing to act quickly and decisively.
“The Carr Government has offended many people in NSW in recent years, and Mr Iemma will be under pressure to repair a fractured relationship with the electorate,” Mr Draper said.
“Commonsense measures that address community concerns must be at the top of his priority list, and I will continue to pursue these issues on behalf of local constituents,” he concluded.
Seniors Organisations Urged to Apply for Grants
August 1, 2005
The 2006 NSW Seniors Week Grants Program is open for applications, Member for Tamworth Peter Draper announced today.
Next years Seniors Week has moved from its traditional time in March to avoid a clash with the 2006 Commonwealth Games to be held in Melbourne, with the revised date now being is April 2–9, 2006.
Mr Draper has urged local organisations to apply for funding under the scheme to help develop and implement programs or activities that coincide with Seniors Week.
“This is an excellent initiative that has been instrumental in the ongoing success of Seniors Week,” Mr Draper said.
“There are two levels of grants available, with up to $1,000 available for worthwhile initiatives that must be matched in cash or in-kind by the organisation, or up to $500 available that need not be matched, and I would urge any local organisation planning an event or activity to apply, he said.”
Mr Draper said that applications close on September 23, 2005, with all successful applicants being advised in early December 2005.
Application forms are available from the NSW Department of Aging, Disability & Home Care, or there is more detailed information available on the website at www.nswseniorsweek.com.au.
