Media Releases, December 2006
For previous releases, click here
Moonbi School safety zone has started
Friday, 22 December, 2006
The Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper today welcomed the installation of new school safety technology at Moonbi Public School.
Mr Draper said two amber flashing lights in the existing school zone sign with a flashing 40 have been installed at the school.
“The technology was recently put into action and has commenced official operation after a commissioning phase,” Mr Draper said.
“These devices incorporate back-to-base reporting mechanisms to ensure their ongoing reliability, so they will do the job effectively.
“Moonbi Public’s principal Terry Browne and the schools parents are very pleased this new technology is now up and running, as it will significantly reduce safety concerns with children crossing the busy New England Highway.
“The new flashing lights are very hard to miss for motorists, and have proven to be extremely effective at other school zones in the local area including, Westdale and Oxley Vale Schools.”
Mr Draper added that the RTA will conduct an evaluation of the lights over 12 operational school weeks, with this examination due to commence prior to the 2007 school year.
Lifeline Honours Stalwart Volunteer
Wednesday, 20 December, 2006
The Member For Tamworth Peter Draper has congratulated former Lifeline volunteer Barbara Doherty for a milestone 33 years of service in the Tamworth area.
Mr Draper presented Mrs Doherty with the Opal of Honour Award for her dedicated service at Lifeline Tamworth’s recent presentation night and Christmas party.
“Mrs Doherty has voluntarily given her time for 33 consecutive years as a telephone counsellor, referring officer and volunteer, which is a wonderful achievement,” Mr Draper said.
“During her tenure as a phone counsellor she took in excess of 3,300 calls from members of the public in need of assistance, plus she volunteered for countless overnight shifts to help maintain Lifeline’s 24-hour counselling service.
“Barbara was also able to find time to assist the Tamworth service with its many fundraising activities, allowing the service to continue to provide telephone counselling across the region.
“I offer my sincere congratulations to Mrs Doherty for her contributions, and I am sure her service will serve as an inspiration for others, both within the service and the broader community.”
Lifeline has provided Australians with access to 24-hour telephone counselling for more than 40 years. The service receives around 500,000 calls per year and is administered from Lifeline Centres operating out of 59 locations around the country.
Mr Draper said the service is always in need of new volunteers.
“Lifeline offers free training to prospective volunteers, and many of the skills acquired can be transferred to both work and personal activities,” he said.
“I would encourage anyone interested in contributing to the service to contact their local Lifeline office,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper presents Barbara Doherty with the Opal of Honour Award for her dedicated service at Lifeline Tamworth’s recent presentation night and Christmas party.
All Preschools Deserve Fair Share for Christmas – Draper
Wednesday, 20 December, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has today welcomed $395,462 in funding for local preschools as part of the Preschool Investment and Reform Plan (PIRP), however he is very critical that some local preschools have been overlooked in the package.
The funding has been allocated over the next two years and includes:
- Walcha Preschool - $58,852
- Gunnedah Baptist Community Preschool - $87,274
- Gunnedah Pre-School - $53,608
- Kootingal & District Pre-School - $9,832
- St Mary's North Tamworth Pre-School - $14,500
- St Peter's Pre-School Tamworth Inc - $51,274
- Calrossy Preschool - $10,000
- Nundle CWA Preschool - $18,000
- Ooranga Mobile Preschool - $92,122
“While I welcome this funding, Werris Creek, Bendemeer, Tamworth Montessori and Peter Pan Preschool appear to have been overlooked entirely in this allocation, which means that they will have no additional funding for the next two years,” Mr Draper said.
“These preschools make an invaluable contribution to their communities, so it is extremely important that they receive the support needed to continue operating viably.
“I am advised that these preschools spent more than 100 hours preparing their application forms for the funding, and their requests were entirely reasonable.
“During the last round of preschool funding I was able to convince the Government to reconsider its allocations for those local preschools that missed funding assistance, and I will be making the same approaches yet again.”
Mr Draper pointed out that the Government’s own State Plan had neglected to mention the preschool sector despite repeated calls from the NSW community for action.
“In this much publicised document, under the section ‘Delivering Better Services’, the Government states “Giving children a confident start to their schooling is one of the best ways of lifting achievement right throughout the school years and into adult life,” he said.
“According to research conducted by Mission Australia and Griffith University, it is $20,500 cheaper per child to run an enriched literacy program for four-year-olds in preschool than school-based reading recovery programs,” he continued.
“The research also found it costs $140 per child to run an intensive social skills program to improve behaviour of four-year-olds compared to $20,000 to send a school-aged child with severe behaviour problems to a special school.
“This research provides a strong case for the Government to inject more funds into preschools to achieve significant savings in the future, so the Government should heed its own advice and help give children a ‘confident start to their schooling’,” he said.
“A relatively small investment in preschools can save an enormous amount of money in the long-term,” he concluded.
Be Sun Safe this Summer – Draper
Tuesday, 19 December, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has urged parents to be Sun Safe with their children over the Christmas holidays as part of a local campaign by the Cancer Council to reduce the incidence of sun cancer.
Mr Draper said parents had a responsibility to ensure their children were adequately protected from the sun while outdoors, as prevention was much better than cure.
“My wife Sharon and I are great believers in the ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ message, as we always ensure our children Ben and Eliza wear a hat, protective clothing and sunscreen when they are out in the sun,” Mr Draper said.
“I look back in horror at my time as a kid when we were allowed to run wild in the sun with little or no protection, and many people from that era are paying the price later in life.
“If parents make certain that their children are well protected in the sun throughout their childhood then they are protected against developing melanoma during adulthood.”
There were 3,239 people diagnosed with melanoma in NSW in 2003, 1,885 male and 1,354 female, with 407 of those cases proving fatal.
Melanoma is the second most common cancer in males and females in NSW. It was the most common cancer in males aged 25-54 years and in females aged 15-29 years. 1 in 24 males and 1 in 35 females will develop melanoma by the age of 75.
“Teaching our children good habits while they are young will help them pass such good practices onto their children, so that all Australians can have fun in the sun without any of the risks,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Tamworth MP Peter Draper and wife Sharon ensure children Ben and Eliza are well protected when they are out in the sun.
Funding for 2007 Seniors Week Events
Tuesday, 19 December, 2006
Aged Care organizations across the district will receive between $500 and $1000 from the State Government to help fund local programs for the 2007 Seniors Week celebrations, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Groups to benefit from the funding include:
- Moonbi Kootingal Respite Care Centre will receive $500 for ‘Having Lunch with Koalas ’
- Nundle Neighbourhood Aid Service will receive $500 for ‘Come Sing With Me’
- Senior Citizens Centre Committee of Tamworth will receive $1000 for ‘Awareness for Older People’
- Tamworth and District Seniors Computer Club receives $1000 for ‘Sharing the Learning Experience’
- Tamworth Regional Council will receive $500 for the Tamworth Seniors Week opening concert
- Walcha Council Home and Community Care will receive $1000 for ‘ Celebrate Life’
- Alkira Hostel Gunnedah will receive $500 to host an opening event
- Gunnedah Day Care Centre will receive $500 to host ‘Laughter and Larrikinism is our Lasting Legacy’
- Lundie House Gunnedah will receive $500 for ‘Gatesby on the Hill’
- And $500 will go to Gunnedah Shire Council to host various events celebrating the ‘Live Life’ message of the week from Sunday 11 March to Saturday 17 March.
“It is pleasing to see that the NSW Government values the contribution made by senior members of our community, and this funding will help residents celebrate and give thanks for this contribution,” Mr Draper said.
“Senior residents contribute actively to country communities in many ways, from manning a cake stall to raise funds, through to representing their community, and helping to attract funds for projects of local significance.
“There are many dedicated individuals and organisations working throughout the year to provide opportunities for older members of our community, and their passion and drive to improve the quality of life for seniors also deserves our thanks.”
NSW Seniors Week is one of the largest events for seniors in the southern hemisphere, with more than 500 events and 250,000 seniors participating. In NSW 13% of the population (889,500) are over 65. In 2004, 235,000 seniors attended NSW Seniors Week events.
“I urge all senior members of the community, as well as the wider community, to get involved in these celebrations so that our seniors receive the recognition they deserve,” Mr Draper concluded.
Farrer Student Wins State Award
Monday, 18 December, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has congratulated Farrer Memorial Agricultural High student Troy Wood for his success in receiving the Mary Foley Memorial Award.
This Award is given annually to primary and secondary school students who demonstrate outstanding results in their academic endeavours. Troy received the award along with Reanne Common from Tomaree High School on the Central Coast, and both will receive prize money of $325.
“Troy was chosen for the award as he was the State’s top performing male Aboriginal student completing the Year 10 School Certificate for 2006, which is an excellent achievement on his behalf as well as his school,” Mr Draper said.
“Country students continually perform among the upper echelons of school students, often outperforming other students at private metropolitan schools, and I pay tribute to the skills and dedication of the Farrer teaching body.
“This recognition says a lot about the quality of public education in Tamworth, plus it highlights the very high standards set by our local teachers.
“I congratulate Troy for his achievement and wish him well in his future academic endeavours.”
The Mary Foley Memorial Award was founded as a result of a bequest from Lucy Winifred Foley, who died in 1977. It is named in memory of her mother. The Department of Aboriginal Affairs administers the award on behalf of Ms Foley’s estate, and this year Year-10 students were chosen.
“The Aboriginal community right across our district has a great deal to offer, so it is pleasing to see the achievements of one of its hard working students pay off in such a positive way,” Mr Draper said.
“Indigenous people may find it more difficult to complete their school education due to cultural and social issues, however Troy’s achievement demonstrates that these obstacles can be overcome when high quality support is provided,” he concluded.
University Not the Only Option for School Leavers – Draper
Monday, 18 December, 2006
High school leavers will receive their long-awaited HSC results this week, however a range of other options are available for students who didn’t achieve the level required to enter university, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Year 12 students who completed their Higher School Certificate in November will be able to access their exam results tomorrow, followed by their University Admission Index (UAI) on Wednesday, which will determine their entry into university. Mr Draper said that while many students will be aiming for university study, there is a range of other options available in the local area that can result in a rewarding career.
“University study is not the only option for school leavers, as there are many paths including TAFE study or local trades that can provide school leavers with the skills they need to lead a successful life,” Mr Draper said.
“TAFE is fast rivalling a university education, as it can offer a broad range of study paths from welding and carpentry to accounting and 3D animation, plus popular courses such as nursing and engineering.
“Local trades are also a viable option for school leavers, as there is a high demand for workers in the building trades given the current skills shortage across regional NSW. Being a builder or carpenter may not appeal to every school leaver, but those who do take that path will be choosing a rewarding career given the current growth in the building sector.”
Mr Draper said that local TAFE campuses had a number of staff available to offer advice and answer questions on available courses, and he encouraged school leavers to explore all available options before making any decision on their future.
“TAFE campuses in Gunnedah and Tamworth have attracted significant investment in recent months, making them more attractive for prospective students,” he said.
“This investment included a $500,000 upgrade of classrooms and teachers facilities at the Gunnedah campus, a $500,000 investment in Tamworth’s National Equine and Livestock Centre, plus $1 million for building extensions and refurbishments at both campuses.
“TAFE NSW has also offered prospective students a ‘Taste of TAFE’, which gives prospective students an opportunity to gather vital information to help them decide possible future career options.
“I would encourage school leavers to seriously consider study and work opportunities within the local area, as they may find exactly what they are looking for without having to leave home,” he concluded.
Burrabaroo to get $5,500 revamp
Friday, 15 December, 2006
The Girl Guides Tintinhull headquarters, Burrabaroo, will benefit from $5,500 in funding to upgrade recreational facilities at the site, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
The State Government grant will allow electricity to be provided to a new shed at the campsite, allowing the Guides to install a water pump, electric smoke alarms, exit signs and emergency lighting. It will also be used to reform the internal road, and allow for the removal of dead trees.
“Burrabaroo is used extensively by the Girl Guides, and they supplement their income by allowing other community groups to use the facilities for a variety of activities,” Mr Draper said.
“Burrabaroo is used by a variety of groups for retreats, meetings, training workshops and seminars, family reunions and weddings in the bush chapel. They include public and private schools, bible study groups, church elders and clergy, plus disabled groups.
“The Girl Guides have done a wonderful job with this facility over many years, and after I recently inspected the site with local Guide representative Judy Button, I sought State Government funding the help deliver these projects.
“This is excellent news for the Girl Guides and the many community groups that use the site as it will make it more attractive for use.
“It is important that small facilities such as Burrabaroo are supported, as it offers a great deal to the Girl Guides plus the broader community, so I am encouraged to see the State Government allocate this funding,” he concluded.
Photo (front): Girl Guides Kaitlin Lawler, Emily Simpson, Rhianna Smith, (back) Girl Guides Region Leader Denis Dunstan, Regional Secretary Judy Button and the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper at the Burrabaroo Girl Guides Tintinhull headquarters.
Local water saving campaign deserves Government support
Thursday, 14 December, 2006
A simple yet effective initiative by a local tradesman to help Tamworth residents conserve precious water is one worthy of Government support, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper met with air conditioning mechanic Allan Mood to discuss his idea of how to save millions of litres of water that goes down the drain each summer through the use of evaporative air conditioners.
He said Mr Mood’s idea would take much pressure of stressed local water storages, plus further promote water conservation among residents, and he has asked the State Government to support the initiative through subsidising the replacement of water filtering equipment.
“There are an estimated 10 to 13,000 evaporative air conditioners in Tamworth alone, and some can consume up to 30 litres of water per day in the summer time,” he said.
“Just 10,000 evaporative coolers used on the lowest setting equates to about 23 megalitres consumed over the summer months, which is an enormous cost to local water storages already stressed from the prolonged drought.
“Local residents are fearful that tougher water restrictions will mean that evaporative coolers will be banned, but if water saving strategies such as suggested by Mr Mood are introduced, the use of these coolers can continue.”
Mr Draper said Mr Mood’s idea was to redirect the ‘bleed off’ water pipe that runs into house guttering back into the cooler’s internal reservoir, therefore recycling the water used. The water could then be purified through mineral additives purchased from any local air conditioning outlet.
Mr Mood said this would reduce the life of filtering equipment by about one-third, but Mr Draper said he planned to approach the State Government to subsidise the replacement of such equipment.
“Under current arrangements the filtering batts last about three years and cost about $120 to replace, but I am hopeful that the Government will see the merits of this initiative and offer its support,” he said.
“I congratulate Mr Mood for his efforts to conserve water in these dry times and urge fellow residents to follow his lead in conserving our most precious natural resource,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper pictured with Allan Mood and an evaporative air conditioner readjusted to recycle water.
Split Rock water users to meet with Macdonald
Tuesday, 12 December, 2006
Members of the Split Rock Water Users Association will tomorrow meet with the Minister for Natural Resources Ian Macdonald to put forward their concerns on the transfer of 55,000 megalitres of water from the dam, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper organised the meeting following a recent public forum where local fisherman, businessmen and farmers expressed their outrage at a decision that will leave as little as 2 per cent of water in Split Rock, threatening valuable fish stocks and local farming industries.
The group will be asking that the transfer be reduced by at least 10,000 megalitres.
“Local farmers are reliant on the water from Split Rock in maintaining viable dairy, cropping and livestock properties, and they are rightly concerned that should the full transfer of water go ahead their livelihood will be threatened,” Mr Draper said.
“State Water estimates that between 2 and 4 per cent of water will be left in Split Rock after the transfer, but local water users have access to the water only if it is at 5 per cent or higher.
“While I recognise that farmers downstream of Keepit are relying on this water for their crops, their security should not come at the expense of local farmers who have as much right to the water in Split Rock to keep their farms operational.”
Mr Draper pointed out that the Split Rock Water Users Association had highlighted many discrepancies in the figures provided by State Water to justify the transfer, and many of their points justified a consideration of reducing the transfer by 10,000 megalitres.
“Members of the group are concerned that there are many inconsistencies in the figures provided by State Water on the ability of Split Rock to cope with such a large transfer. They believe that the stock and domestic component of water for local users was grossly underestimated by State Water at 160ml per annum, as it should be closer to 3650ml per annum,” he said.
“They also believe that State Water did not take into account the higher ability of Lake Keepit to recharge its storage, which based on historic flows of the Manilla and Namoi rivers is up to five times higher than Split Rock.
“Once the transfer is completed between 8,000 and 16,000 megalitres will be left in the dam, but more than 20,000 megalitres should remain to meet the obligations of the Water Sharing Plan.
“I have already asked the Minister to reconsider the transfer of the full 55,000 megalitres, and I urge him to seriously consider the concerns of local water users at this meeting,” Mr Draper concluded.
Draper and Harold catch up before Christmas
Tuesday, 12 December, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper caught up with Healthy Harold in Manilla for the last time this year before the popular giraffe takes a well-earned Christmas break.
Mr Draper along with kindergarten and year one and two children visited the Life Education Van at Manilla’s St Michael’s Primary School, where they all shared the adventures of Harold and Life Education educator Narelle Rowe.
“I was pleased to see Harold and Narelle on one of their last school visits for the year and to share in the message of Life Education with St Michael’s students,” he said.
“I was also given the opportunity to participate in a safety demonstration with the local children during the visit, where they correctly demonstrated how to contact a responsible adult when a syringe was found in the playground.
“I was especially impressed with this group of children as they were already aware of many of the issues raised, and even taught myself and Narelle a thing or two.”
Mr Draper, who is also the patron of local Life Education, said he looked forward to continuing his support of the service into the New Year, and congratulated Narelle, local volunteers and local schools for their contributions.
“Life Education has been delivering its message of healthy living and sensible choices to primary school students for over 25 years, and judging from the response of children at St Michael’s that message is enormously fun and effective.
“Volunteers from local Lions Clubs have assisted in driving the van to the many schools in the local area, and it is small but vital efforts such as this that keep the valuable service going,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper demonstrates how an adult would dispose of a syringe. Click here for more photos.
Manilla “One Stop” Health Shop Good for Community – Draper
Tuesday, 12 December, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has met with representatives from Hunter New England Area Health Service to discuss the recent announcement that the NSW Government will construct a “One Stop” health shop in Manilla.
Describing the proposal as a positive development for the community, Mr Draper said that construction of the HealthOne NSW facility in Manilla would also help fast track the construction of a new MPS hospital for the community.
“Many graduating GP’s are not interested in managing a practice, but prefer to be able to use their skills without worrying about day to day administrative concerns, so and this model will help attract these practitioners to communities such as Manilla,” he said.
Mr Draper said that he had received many positive calls from the Manilla community regarding the new facility, and indicated his intent to put pressure on the NSW Government to bring forward the construction of the MPS.
“The MPS model in small rural communities is the optimal model of health care where aged care acute care and community health are integrated. Similar models have proven to be very successful such as in Barraba where Richardson House and the Barraba MPS have developed strong links to improve care coordination. I am supportive of a similar structure being developed for Manilla in conjunction with the HealthOne structure should a new MPS facility be brought forward,” Mr Draper said.
“The HealthOne NSW facility that is planned for the town has received strong support from the majority of Manilla’s practicing GP’s, the Manilla Local Health Advisory Committee, and also the broader community if the calls to my office are any indication.
“It will allow for close interaction between the towns GP’s and allied health professionals, and I have been advised that the model will encourage Care Plan pathways to be developed that will deliver improved health care outcomes for patients.”
Mr Draper said that the HealthOne model would ensure the current level of health care for the town is maintained and enhanced. It would also allow for rotating visits from Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Podiatrists, Dieticians, Speech Pathologists, Mental Health Professionals plus Drug and Alcohol practitioners. He added that counselling services plus specialist nurses would also be available.
“The HealthOne will significantly expand the focus on preventative health and education that promotes wellness, with specialist nurses focussing on chronic disease areas of health needs including respiratory, diabetes, and cardiac illness, among others.” Mr Draper said.
“This is a very exciting step forward for Manilla, and it will provide the community with improved access and outcomes, while underpinning the development of a new MPS and aged care facility for the future,” he concluded.
Tamworth Public School wins green grant
Monday, December 11, 2006
Protection of the local environment has been given a boost with the awarding of a $2,500 NSW Government grant to Tamworth Public School, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper said the Ecoschools grant is part of a state-wide $640,000 package that would help improve the NSW environment at a grass-roots level.
“This is the first round of grants under the State Government’s $439 million City and Country Environment Restoration Program, and I am pleased to see funds coming to the local area,” he said.
The grant is part of a NSW Government initiative that has funded 80 grants across three program areas including:
Funding for new kitchen at Duri Hall
Friday, 8 December 2006
The Duri Community Hall is now better equipped to cater for local functions events following State Government funding of $6,300 to install a new kitchen, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper said he had made representations to the Premier on the behalf of the Duri Progress Association to secure funds for the Community Hall’s new kitchen, as the existing facilities were unable to cope with the growing and changing needs of the community.
“The Progress Association had recently raised funds for new windows, painting and a disabled toilet, but remained concerned that the hall was not being utilised to its full potential because the kitchen was inappropriate,” Mr Draper said.
“Duri is a small but vibrant community, and the local community deserves to have access to modern facilities capable of meeting local needs.
“I was pleased to assist the Association on this project, and once the kitchen is finished, the hall will be better equipped to cater for local functions.”
Mr Draper said the funding had helped the Duri Progress Association completely rebuild the former kitchen in the hall, and added that he was impressed with the work completed to date following an inspection prior to the recent Duri United Hospitals Auxiliary annual Christmas Meeting.
“I was honoured to be invited to attend the Auxiliary’s Christmas event which was well attended by members from both Duri and Tamworth branches,” he said.
“Duri residents are passionate about their small village and I look forward to continuing my support for the community well into the future,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Duri Progress Association Members Jason Alderson, Lindsay Donaldson, Keith Harbey, Barry Johnson, Priscilla and Charlotte Collins and the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper test out the Duri Hall’s new kitchen facility.
Tamworth Hospital Continues to Perform Strongly
Thursday, 7 December 2006
The latest performance figures compiled by NSW Heath show that Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital continues to perform strongly despite increasing emergency department activity, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
“In October this year, 3,384 people sought treatment in Tamworth Hospital’s Emergency Department – this is an increase of 2.6 per cent compared to October 2005,” Mr Draper said.
“Of the people who presented for treatment, 570 who had more serious illnesses and injuries required emergency admission to a ward, surgery or intensive care. This is a 14.7 per cent increase on the same period last year.
“All of the triage category one patients, those being the most serious cases presenting to emergency departments in need of life-saving resuscitation or care, were seen within the benchmark time frame of two minutes.
“There has been a concerted effort by hardworking emergency department staff to continue improving performance across all triage categories – by significant margins in many cases.
“In spite of this large increase in emergency cases, Tamworth is undertaking more surgery and cutting the waiting lists,” he said.
“In October this year, 806 patients were waiting for elective surgery, 108 less than were waiting in October last year.
“Also, in October, no patients were waiting more than 12 months for elective surgery at Tamworth Hospital, which is a marked improvement on the 17 patients who were waiting over 12 months at this time last year.
“These very encouraging figures result from the implementation of the Predictable Surgery Program – designed by clinicians and assisted locally through the provision of extra resources.
“I wish to pay tribute to the hard work of our local doctors and nurses – their efforts to improve the efficiency of local hospitals are very clearly demonstrated in these results,” Mr Draper concluded.
Police Numbers High on Agenda for Country Independents
Thursday, 7 December, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper will meet with fellow independent Member Richard Torbay today to discuss strategies to increase the number of frontline police for country communities.
Mr Draper has previously met with NSW Police Minister John Watkins in State Parliament to discuss this issue, and also pushed for a sizeable allocation of new officers from the January graduation of the Goulburn Police Academy. He presented the Minister with a number of options that would address current concerns in the Oxley Local Area Command.
He said that following the recent backlash against the major parties at State level the possibility of independents holding the balance of power was very real, and addressing police numbers and recruitment would be a priority for both MP’s.
“I have been working closely with Superintendent Tony Jefferson to boost police numbers across the Oxley Local Area Command, and I am confident that we will see a significantly increased police presence in January,” Mr Draper said.
“While police numbers in the Oxley Local Area are currently above strength at 126 officers, the number of officers on long-term sick or stress leave, or on restricted duties, is creating concerns about how many officers are actually available for duty.
“Other communities are experiencing similar problems, so I am looking forward to discussing strategies to alleviate this area of concern with Mr Torbay. With the increasing likelihood of independents holding the balance of power after the March election we will be well placed to push for positive changes.”
Mr Draper’s options put forward to Minister Watkins included
- All officers who spend more than six months undergoing rehabilitation be placed into a corporate relief position “Non Operational”, thus allowing the command to recruit against the vacant position and retain the number of operational Police needed.
- Officers who are on long-term sick leave exceeding 12 months should be transferred to the Human Resources Command, awaiting medical discharge. Again this would allow the command to maintain permanent operational levels, and continue to develop special skills areas.
- The process of medical discharge must be fast tracked to allow quicker movement of officers out of the service so replacements can be recruited.
- Offering a package for discharge after 30 years service regardless of age would encourage many older officers to retire.
Mr Torbay said he was also pleased to be working with Mr Draper to address policing concerns, as both electorates shared similar problems.
“Local Area Commands may appear to be over authorised strength yet there are many officers unable to carry out their duties,” Mr Torbay said.
“There is currently no encouragement for police to resolve their discharge matters speedily and efficiently due to the way pensions and superannuation benefits are structured,” he said.
“I look forward to working closely with Mr Draper and developing strategies that will address this very serious area of concern,” he concluded.
Nats Must Finally Commit To Barraba Water Pipeline – Draper
Wednesday, 6 December, 2006
Following an unprecedented personal attack on Tamworth radio by the National Party candidate for the electorate of Tamworth, local Member Peter Draper has voiced his concern at the inexperience and lack of understanding of local political issues expressed by the local candidate during the extraordinary interview yesterday.
Mr Draper said that he rarely responds to uninformed personal attacks, however the scare mongering and lack of knowledge regarding the Barraba water issue from the National Party deserved a response.
“The local candidate viciously attacked me, alleging that I had done nothing to convince the NSW Government to fast track the proposed pipeline from Split Rock Dam to Barraba over the past three and one half years, and stating that the Government had opted for a partial funding of six bores at a cost of $340,000,” Mr Draper said.
“What the candidate fails to realise is that Barraba is not yet in the electorate of Tamworth and won’t become part of the electorate until after the March 2007 election,” he said.
Mr Draper said that he fully supported the National Party’s criticism regarding ineffective representation on the issue, but pointed out that Barraba had been represented by the National Party’s Ian Slack-Smith for the past 12 years, and prior to that, the area had been represented by the former National Party Leader and Deputy Premier Wal Murray.
“Since the Split Rock Dam was constructed in 1988, Barraba has been crying out for a reliable water supply through construction of a pipeline from the dam, yet under successive National Party representatives the community is still awaiting a positive decision,” he said.
“Instead of continually carping about the lack of action by the current State Government, the National Party candidate should be asking why Ian Slack-Smith has spoken in the Parliament about Murray Darling Water, Narromine water, Namoi water, Tamworth water, Queensland Border rivers water, and Australian Inland Energy water, yet he has failed to raise the Barraba water supply even once according to the Hansard record of his speeches.
“The late Wal Murray, who apart from being the Leader of the National Party and Deputy Premier in Government, was also the Minister for Public Works and the local representative for Barraba, yet even though he was the Minister responsible for water infrastructure he was unable to deliver the pipeline.”
Mr Draper said he was astonished that the National Party candidate had pleaded for the Barraba community to “trust him” on delivering a pipeline, but when he was asked on four separate occasions to give a commitment that should the Coalition win Government in 2007 they would fund the pipeline, he flatly refused.
“It simply shows that this candidate is very good at rhetoric and criticism, yet he cannot even secure a promise from his Liberal masters to deliver this much needed infrastructure for Barraba,” Mr Draper said.
“Should he be elected next year, community members can expect exactly the same lack of representation that the National Party has given Barraba over the past 18 years, and they will be still lamenting the failure of this under-performing party to secure a sustainable water supply for many years to come,” he concluded.
Time for Nats to commit to Barraba Water Supply – Draper
Monday, 4 December, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper says it is time for the National Party to stop their campaign of carping and bluster, and actually commit the Coalition to constructing a $10 million pipeline should they win Government at the 2007 NSW election.
Mr Draper said that Tamworth Regional Council had received an engineer’s report on options to secure the Barraba water supply, and had decided that the construction of a $10 million pipeline from Split Rock Dam to the town was the preferred option. He said that he would continue to press the Water Utilities Minister David Campbell to commit 50% of the costs in line with TRC recommendations.
“This candidate is continuing his policy of fear and disruption within the local communities, yet once again he has failed to commit the Coalition to funding anything,” Mr Draper said.
“He continues this process of destabilisation at the expense of the community, just as he has done with his unfounded allegations of ballooning crime statistics in this region, but he is either unwilling or incapable of telling the community what he would deliver should the Coalition win the election,” he continued.
“Instead of continually calling on the Labor Government for action, lets see a commitment from the National Party that the Coalition will deliver their 50% share of the $10 million project, and whilst he is detailing funding commitments, perhaps he might also explain exactly how many new Police he would deliver for the Oxley LAC should he be successful in March.”
Mr Draper pointed out that the Minister had not yet received Tamworth Regional Council’s recommendation regarding provision of a water supply for Barraba, yet the National Party candidate was misleading Barraba residents by claiming the pipeline option had already been rejected.
“I secured a commitment from the Minister to closely examine the preferred option from TRC once it was received, and I will continue the pressure so we secure the best outcome for Barraba’s future water needs,” Mr Draper said.
“I can understand inexperience, but the National Party’s candidate’s poor judgement and deliberate misrepresentations should stop, as he could disadvantage the community of Barraba should he continue this reckless approach,” Mr Draper concluded.
Draper supports ‘Fair go for Injured People’
Monday, 4 December, 2006
A NSW Bar Association campaign to get a ‘fair go’ for people injured in the work place is one that deserves recognition and support from the State Government, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper told Parliament this week.
Following a meeting with the Association’s president Michael Slattery, QC, and other independent MPs, Mr Draper pointed out the issues affecting people injured at work from legislation introduced by the State Government in 1999 and 2001. He said the Association’s campaign ‘A Fair Go for Injured People’ highlights the need for the Government to resolve many of the discrepancies in the system.
“The campaign will draw public attention to the affects that the laws are having on injured people, in particular people who are injured in the workplace or in motor vehicle accidents,” Mr Draper told Parliament.
“The changes in legislation have established thresholds for personal injuries that affect a great number of people to the extent that more than nine out of 10 people injured at work or in motor vehicle accidents are denied the right to receive damages for pain and suffering.
“These people do not meet the test for fair compensation because of the range of complex percentage thresholds. People have come into my office clearly in great pain and discomfort and with long-term prospects of diminished activity and earning potential, yet they do not meet the stringent thresholds.
”I found it particularly interesting that in 2006 PricewaterhouseCoopers claimed that the WorkCover scheme's $2 billion debt would take until 2012 to clear up. However, just nine months later the Minister announced that this scheme was some $81 million in surplus.
“That speaks volumes about where the money is going: $8 billion has been raised under this scheme, yet only $1.8 billion has been paid out in compensation to injured people.”
Mr Draper pointed out that the Government and Opposition response to the issues raised by the Association had not been adequate, and that the State’s Upper House had already suggested some solutions to such concerns.
“The position of all the different organisations in the campaign is fully supported by the findings of the Legislative Council's General Purpose Standing Committee No. 1, which released a report in December 2005 that would benefit people with injuries,” Mr Draper said.
“Unfortunately, the Government has rejected the findings of that committee and, more unfortunately, the Opposition has also failed to respond positively to the Fair Go for Injured People campaign.
“We need to have a complete look at the system, and the Government should reassess the standing committee's recommendations,” he concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
Photo: Independent Members Steven Pringle, Alex McTaggart, Dawn Fardell, Peter Draper, Richard Torbay and David Barr meet with President of the Bar Association, Michael Slattery QC.
Barraba Split Rock pipeline Council’s ‘preferred’ option
Monday, 4 December, 2006
The State Government should now support the construction of a pipeline between Barraba and Split Rock Dam following Tamworth Regional Council’s decision that it is the preferred option to secure the town’s water supply, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
At this week’s monthly Council meeting, it was recommended that Council confirm the pipeline as the preferred option, and ask the State Government to fund 50 per cent of the cost following limited success in recent investigations into local groundwater sources.
Mr Draper said it was vital that the Government moved quickly to commit funding to the project, as any further delays could prove more costly.
“The report tabled at council stated that the pipeline option would now cost an estimated $10 million, up from an estimated $3 million in 1996, due to an increase in material costs,” he said.
“While a full costing of the project is yet to be undertaken, it is critical that any application for funding assistance by Tamworth Regional Council receives a swift and thorough review by Water Utilities Minister David Campbell to avoid any further blowouts in costs.”
Mr Draper said he was willing to assist Tamworth Regional Council in its application for funding, and following recent comments from the Minister he was optimistic it would receive a fair assessment.
“I questioned the Minister in Parliament recently on the Split Rock pipeline issue, and I was very encouraged by his response that he would seriously consider the project once council presented its options report,” he said.
“Barraba is a healthy and vibrant community, but the perennial water issue continues to inhibit growth and investment opportunities.
“Through hard work and persistence the community is slowly winning this fight, and I will continue to maintain pressure on the Government for a favourable consideration,” he concluded.
School zone technology for Moonbi selected
Friday, 1 December, 2006
Moonbi Public School will be one of the first in the state to receive new state of the art school zone signage, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
The Roads and Traffic Authority finalised the new school zone light technology, which will be in the form of two amber flashing lights in the existing school zone sign, and includes a flashing 40.
“In selecting the locations for new flashing light zones, the RTA assessed school sites based on a combination of child pedestrian crash history, crash risk, traffic volume and pedestrian volume,” Mr Draper said.
“I have spoken with Moonbi Public’s principal Terry Browne and many parents who were concerned with student safety given that the school zone is located on the busy New England Highway, so it is pleasing to see the project proceed,” Mr Draper said.
“The new devices will incorporate back-to-base reporting mechanisms to ensure their ongoing reliability, and they will prove to be very effective.”
Mr Draper added that the RTA will conduct an evaluation of the lights over 12 operational school weeks, with installation due to commence prior to the 2007 school year.
“It is encouraging to see Government listening to the concerns of local school staff and parents, and I will continue to lobby for other schools across the district to receive similar safety upgrades,” he concluded.
Photo: The new school zone sign to be installed at Moonbi Public School.
