Media Releases, December 2008
For previous releases, click here
Decision On School Bus Passes Welcome
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has welcomed a decision by the State Government to drop its short-sighted plan that would have seen free school travel axed for students.
“Some will call this decision a back-flip, but call it what you will, it is a victory for common sense,” Mr Draper said.
“Of a number of unwise decisions in the mini budget this was the one that hurt families the most, and it was only going to save $33 million a year,” he said.
“Most importantly the strong opposition from the wider electorate has been listened to and acted on,” Mr Draper continued.
Mr Draper said that the States' school transport subsidy could be compared to the Medicare system in the Federal sphere.
“It has been a long standing social policy that benefits families across the state,” he said.
Mr Draper indicated he had received feedback input from all affected parties including families, parent groups, schools plus bus operators.
“Many questions were raised about eligibility, including whether travel should be limited to the nearest public or church school," Mr Draper said.
"I also was asked whether Government had considered the impacts upon small schools in rural communities,” he said.
“Children must be able to attend school without the Government putting financial impediments in the way of parents.”
“While it is an expensive scheme, it is important to also consider the ability for country families to meet increased costs of school transport,” he continued.
“World economics will influence the need for better public transport provision nationwide, not to mention considering the environmental implications.”
“There has been a massive under investment in rural and regional public transport provision compared with the major metropolitan areas over many years.”
“The stupidity of axing the school transport scheme has thankfully been righted, however the Government needs to not only deliver the school transport required , but also to improve general public transport provision in regional and rural communities into the future,” Mr Draper concluded.
$519,000 in Funds to Fight Noxious Weeds
Thursday, December 18, 2008
State MP, Peter Draper, has welcomed $519,000 of funding from the NSW Government to assist local control authorities fulfil their obligations under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993.
“Noxious weeds can cause devastating environmental and financial loss. This funding is welcome because we have a relentless battle controlling and eliminating a wide variety of weeds,” Mr Draper said.
“Gunnedah Shire Council receives $57,000, Liverpool Plains Shire $60,500, Tamworth Regional $88,500 and Narrabri Shire $106,000 for weed control coordination assistance, administration and priority projects.”
“In addition the Northern Inland Weeds Advisory Committee has received $207,000,” he said.
Mr Draper said that in New South Wales, the term ‘noxious weed’ is used to describe plants that have been declared as noxious weeds under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993.
“Weeds cause problems for farmers, for gardeners, for public utilities and for conservation,” he said.
“Many weeds are little more than a nuisance, while others can cause serious losses to crop and livestock production, threaten ecological communities and harm the health of people. The term ‘noxious weed’ is a descriptive title for a legal definition.”
“Noxious weeds are more than just really bad weeds - they have a range of characteristics. As well as the potential to cause harm to community and individual interests, they will be controllable by reasonable means but most importantly, they will be likely to spread within an area and to other areas,” he said.
“Although the Act may restrict the way individuals choose to manage their land or engage in trade, the purpose of these restrictions is to prevent weed spread and the external costs caused by that spread,” he continued.
Mr Draper said that the Government funding was an acknowledgement there was a responsibility from individual landholder, through local authorities to the State as a whole to wage the war against noxious weeds.
“This $519,000 is part of a state wide allocation of $8.3 million.”
“It is in everyone’s best interests to take this war against noxious weeds seriously, to meet the threat head on and protect our economic and environmental futures,” Mr Draper concluded.
Tickets Available For 2009 Senior’s Week Gala Concerts
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has a number of tickets available for Seniors who would like to attend the 2009 Premier’s Seniors Week Gala Concerts.
There will be two concerts that will be held at the Sydney Entertainment Centre on Monday 16 March at 10.30am, and also at 2.30pm.
“These tickets are available for seniors who can make their own way to and from Sydney, and would like to attend these concerts,” Mr Draper said.
“There is always a great deal of demand for these tickets, so I recommend that interested people contact my Electorate office on 6766 1422 and secure their tickets so as to avoid disappointment,” he said.
Mr Draper added that wheelchair tickets are available for patrons who arrive in a wheelchair and stay seated in the chair throughout the concert, with a ticket for their carer included in the package.
“Seniors who have attended these concerts in past years have told me that the entertainment is always first class,” Mr Draper said.
“For seniors who will be in Sydney on March 16, this is a great way to celebrate Senior’s Week.”
“Of course for those people who can’t get to Sydney for these concerts there will be plenty of Senior’s events in the region, at the time,” he added.
Mr Draper recently announced funding of $4,866 that was shared between eleven local organizations to stage events celebrating Senior’s Week 2009 across the local region.
“Be it in Sydney at the Gala Concert, or the many events in the local area, Senior’s Week 2009 will provide plenty of opportunities to celebrate the contribution that seniors make to our communities,” Mr Draper concluded.
$10,000 in Government Funding To Extend Festival Bus Services
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has welcomed advice that the NSW Ministry of Transport will provide financial assistance of up to $10,000 to extend bus services during January’s Country Music Festival.
“Tamworth’s population doubles when hosting one the world’s biggest music festivals, and with road closures needed to facilitate this event it is vital to provide additional transport so people can move safely and efficiently from venues all over the city,” Mr Draper said.
“The funding is acknowledgment of the important role the Festival plays as a major state event, and also recognition of the need to provide effective transport resources for so many visitors.”
“With Tamworth ‘partying’ virtually 24 hours a day during the Festival, it is critical that transport links operate into the wee small hours of the morning,” he continued.
Mr Draper said that Tamworth Regional Council had approached him seeking assistance to ensure the Government provided at least the level of funding that had been made available in past years.
“This funding will help Council maintain and improve the Festival service levels,” he said.
Mr Draper also said that while he welcomed the assistance for transport during the Festival, there was also a need to increase transport options during the year, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights.
“Availability of transport services has not kept pace with the city’s expansion, or changes to society’s expectations regarding the responsible use of alcohol plus drink driving laws,” he said.
“Public transport options outside the Sydney/Newcastle/Wollongong corridor leaves a lot to be desired, and given the cost of fuel plus environmental concerns there is pressure mounting on the Government to examine ways of providing public transport options that meet year-round community needs.”
“Compared to city dwellers, residents in our region are not getting value for money when public transport provision is concerned,” Mr Draper said.
“Assistance to improve Festival transport is welcome, however, local needs throughout the year also should be reviewed and strengthened,” he concluded.
Congratulations Challenge On 50 Years Serving Community
Monday, December 15, 2008
State MP, Peter Draper, today congratulated Challenge Disability Services on fifty years of serving the local community. Mr Draper applauded the efforts of Challenge Chairman Kevin Kelly, his Board, plus past Board members, parents and volunteers during a speech he made to launch the book, The First Fifty Years of Challenge, compiled by Narelle Powdrell.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to achieve their potential, and every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect,” Mr Draper said during the launch.
Mr Draper pointed out that Tamworth was viewed as a centre of excellence for the provision of disability services, mainly due to the efforts of the Challenge organisation over the past 50 years. He said that few would have dreamed that a meeting held on the 25th August, 1958, in Tamworth Town Hall, would culminate in the formation of the Tamworth & District Handicapped Children’s Association, leading to the Challenge organization as it is known today.
“The outstanding feature of Challenge’s development is the level of involvement by local organizations and individuals over that fifty year period,” Mr Draper said.
“Challenge has always striven to develop comprehensive services of excellence in the community to enhance the value status of people with a disability,” he said.
“This fantastic organisation has fulfilled those aims admirably, and they deserve recognition and congratulations for fifty years of achievement,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper pointed out that his grandmother, Mary Riley, had devoted 27 years to Challenge, being the first Principal at the special school that opened in November 1959, in Johnson Street.
“I have many fond memories of spending time with my grandmother at the school when I was a child, and I am very proud of her role in providing an education for children with a disability,” he said.
“It is pleasing that while my grandmother was a founding teacher at Bullimbal, in my role of State MP, I have been able to play a role in gaining Government support to construct a brand new school so this important educational facility can continue its wonderful work,” he continued.
Mr Draper also read a letter from Minister for Disability Services, Paul Lynch, congratulating Challenge on its achievement.
“Challenge has played a vital role in our community for fifty years, and I look forward to them continuing that role while meeting future challenges over the next fifty years,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: State MP, Peter Draper with Challenge Chairman, Kevin Kelly, CEO Barry Murphy, and author of 'The First 50 Years of Challenge', Narelle Powdrell at today's launch.
$1,998,000 makes Local Environment the Winner
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, today presented a certificate recognising funding of $1,998,000 to NamoiROC Chair, Gunnedah Mayor Adam Marshall. The funds will allow local councils and their partners to facilitate an exciting electorate wide environmental project. The funds from the NSW Environmental Trust have been presented to NamoiROC to support the Namoi Sustainability in Action – Green is the New Black project.
The NSW Government established the Environment Trust in 1998 to support exceptional environmental projects that do not receive funds from the usual government sources.
Tamworth, Gunnedah, Liverpool Plains, Narrabri and Walcha Councils, Namoi CMA and Northern Inland Regional Waste are partners within NamoiROC.
Mr Draper said the Namoi Sustainability In Action project would implement environmentally sustainable outcomes across the Namoi region’s urban communities.
“Working with priorities from the Namoi Catchment Sustainability Plan (NCSP), the project commences with capacity building of the five member councils as leaders in the region.”
“Activities included training, eco-foot printing, implementation of initiatives with high environmental benefit, plus integration of planning and policy frameworks to support sustainable outcomes,” Mr Draper said.
“The project includes a range of activities across industry, businesses and householders, building community capacity to identify, understand and respond to sustainability issues.”
“Innovative, practical and cost-effective actions to reduce energy and water usage, increase use of renewable energy and improve waste management will be implemented and promoted. Priority environmental outcomes include a reduction in greenhouse emissions, improved water management, restored riverine environments, with the final result being Namoi Sustainability in Action,” he said.
NamoiROC chair, Adam Marshall, said the organisation is very pleased to accept this funding on behalf of the councils in the region.
“We strongly believe in tackling the environmental issues we currently face, and will face into the future, instead of waiting for the problems to confront us,” Cr Marshall said.
Mr Draper said the $1,998,000 presented to NamoiROC was one of 92 grants state wide, totalling $34.169 million.
“This is an excellent outcome for the local environment and local communities,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: State MP, Peter Draper, presents NamoiROC chair, Adam Marshall, with the funding certificate for $1,998,000 to support the Namoi Sustainability in Action – Green is the New Black environmental project.
Senior’s Funding Sets Scene to Celebrate
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
State MP, Peter Draper, has announced funding of $4,866, shared between eleven local organizations, to stage events celebrating Senior’s Week 2009.
Senior’s Week 2009 will run between 15th – 22nd March.
“Senior’s Week is a celebration to acknowledge the vital role our seniors play throughout the year within the community.”
“From helping to build the nation we have today, the support they provide to their families, their vital role as volunteers, plus the million and one things they do to help keep the wheels rolling, we all owe them the respect they have earned through decades of endeavours,” Mr Draper said.
The following organisations/projects within the Electorate of Tamworth have received funding.
Barraba Day Care/Marching On ($500), Gunnedah Shire Council/Seniors Week in Gunnedah ($500), Tamworth Regional Council/Nundle Neighbourhood Aid Come Sing A Long ($500), Boggabri Old Peoples Welfare Committee/Smell Taste and Appreciate Mystery Tour ($500), OMNI Tamworth/Older Mens Health and Mens Shed Forum ($390), Moonbi Kootingal Respite Care Centre/Centre Open Day and BBQ ($390), Senior Citizen Centre Committee/Seniors Moving Right Along (($500), Lundie House/Be Healthy Be Green ($390), Tamworth Seniors Week Organising Committee/Seniors in the New Age Garden ($390), U3A Tamworth/Learning and Sharing Your Learning ($416), Tamworth Regional Council/Working Together Young and Old ($390).
Mr Draper said the funding would be distributed before Christmas allowing plenty of time to develop the projects.
“I know that these organizations, seniors and the wider community look forward to celebrating the energy and achievements of this much admired sector of our community.”
“I encourage the entire community to join together celebrating with them,” Mr Draper concluded.
Local Women Deserve to Be Put Forward for International Women’s Day Recognition
Monday, December 8, 2008
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has called on interested people to nominate local women for the 2009 NSW Woman of the Year award.
Mr Draper said that there were many outstanding local women who had made significant contributions to building a progressive and inclusive community, and that their endeavours deserved to be recognised through this annual award.
“I am aware of many inspirational local women who are passionate about assisting and improving the communities they live in, and I urge locals to put these people forward so their story can be shared with others,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said that it was important to recognise the efforts of local women who were already actively working to make their community a better place. He also said that recognising women who were making a difference was very helpful in encouraging other women, both young and old, to follow the examples already set.
Mr Draper said that nomination forms could be obtained through his Tamworth electorate office by telephoning 67661422, and that interested people could also log onto the website www.women.nsw.gov.au to obtain further information.
Mr Draper said that the awards were growing in popularity each year, with 10 finalists to be chosen from across the State.
“The NSW Woman of the Year will be announced in Sydney by the Premier on March 5, 2009, at a special reception, so it is important to put forward local women from this area for inclusion,” he concluded.
Inaction To Assist Threatened Sawmills Is Deplorable
Monday, December 8, 2008
“Everybody in this Parliament should be ashamed to hear that the sawmill operator's son said to me: “This whole process is killing my dad.” – Peter Draper MP to NSW Parliament.
During a speech to the NSW Parliament, the Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has slammed the Private Native Forestry Code of Practice for virtually destroyed small hard wood sawmills in the Tamworth region, and in other areas of NSW as well.
“It is a complete disgrace that as parliamentary sittings are about to wind up for 2008 I must yet again detail the damage that is being done to small communities and small businesses as a result of the abomination that is known as the Private Native Forestry Code of Practice. It has ruined one, and almost forced the remaining two Tamworth hardwood mills out of business.” Mr Draper told Parliament.
“It disgusts me that at the same time it appears the big players in this industry have benefited by being looked after with adequate Government sourced supplies. The Boral operations in Walcha had more than enough timber to meet it needs, but have closed its doors due to a downturn in demand. Yet, at the same time, a small operation such as Bendemeer sawmill has received no assistance from Government in sourcing the roughly 1,500 cubic metres per year it requires to remain viable,” he said.
“I have previously detailed how local landholders who used to supply the mill with small volumes of logs from their properties will not engage in the new code process—they do not trust the authorities and there is far too much paper work involved,” he continued.
“The owners of the Bendemeer sawmill are in a bind. They want to continue operations, maintain local employment and preserve the important base they provide in their town. They have had many discussions with the Department of Primary Industries regarding an exit package—not because they want to get out - but because they can see the writing on the wall,” he said.
Mr Draper said that in August 2006, the management of Bendemeer sawmill had highlighted the problems it would face in a submission commenting on the draft private native forestry code.
“The mill representative commented on several issues, however it is the closing comments that have proven so prophetic. They stated: This draft will no doubt make our business non-productive, thus leading to the loss of three employees jobs, plus three partners and myself. The flow on effect in a small town will not be measured lightly—supermarket, post office, hotel, fuel depot, transport company. If this is carried out to the full who will fund our lost jobs, equipment and buildings?” Mr Draper noted.
Mr Draper also read a letter from one of the mill’s principals to Parliament, highlighting the uncertainty they face, the current mood of depression and a plea for a positive determination.
“I have said this before: While a flurry of activity occurs after my entreaties to Government, no real actions or solutions have been forthcoming. I say again to the Government that urgent action is required to ensure Bendemeer sawmill has a future,” Mr Draper told Parliament.
“I have spoken to Deputy Premier and Minister for Climate Change, The Environment and Commerce, Carmel Tebbutt, since my speech to Parliament, and she has promised to urgently examine the situation. I sincerely hope this will be more successful than the Government’s previous attempts,” Mr Draper concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
State Revenue And Other Legislation Amendment (Budget Measures) Bill 2008
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has spoken in opposition to the Government’s November mini budget, when contributing to the State Revenue and Other Legislation Amendment (Budget Measures) Bill 2008 in the Parliament last night.
“Recently the Federal Government endeavoured to kick-start the economy by injecting $10.4 billion, yet New South Wales is standing there pouring a bucket of water on it,” Mr Draper told Parliament.
“I appreciate that the Federal Government's distribution of the GST has been inadequate over the past 12 years or so, and it has certainly favoured the resource-rich States, including Queensland and Western Australia, at the expense of New South Wales. However, the global situation is serious. When economies need to be started, the last thing we need is a mini-budget that is having exactly the opposite effect,” he said.
“Deficit is not a dirty word. Triple-A ratings are not what they are made out to be. How many companies with triple-A ratings have gone under in the global crisis?”
“We should be investing in infrastructure. Money is cheap at the moment, and it is an opportunity for us to stick money into capital works. If there had been investment over the past 12 years, instead of an obsession with debt reduction, I think we would be in a much better position,” Mr Draper continued.
Mr Draper said many constituents had been in touch with him expressing anger over mini budget measures. He pointed out that Parliament had passed a Bill to provide $38 million for a V8 car race at Homebush, yet the scheme to charge families for school bus transport would only raise $33 million. He also told Parliament that the Government had indicated that World Youth Day would cost taxpayers $20 million, but had actually cost $120 million, and warned that he expected expect a similar blow-out from the car race.
Mr Draper indicated that the NSW Mini-Budget proposal to impose a charge on private hospitals for the provision of blood and blood products had also caused a lot of concern.
“I have received dozens and dozens of phone calls from people who currently donate blood voluntarily. They have indicated to me that if the Government intends to make money out of blood donations they will stop donating. That is terrifying when we are approaching the holiday season and, sadly, there will be an enormous demand for blood products. Earlier today the Government talked about reduced road tolls, but there is still significant carnage on our roads and people require blood products. Sadly, if we alienate the people who provide the service, that will have a significant impact on our community,” Mr Draper told Parliament.
In summing up his opposition to the mini budget legislation Mr Draper said:
“The current situation reminds me of someone buying a house who puts all their income into paying off the debt. Pretty soon the amount they owe reduces significantly but the power gets cut off because they have not paid the bills, the roof is leaking and vandals have spray painted all their windows. But they feel good because their credit rating with the bank is excellent. They may not be able to feed their kids or put clothes on their back, but the bank manager loves them. He holds them up as an example for other homebuyers to follow. The paint might be flaking off and the lawn is overgrown because they cannot afford to put petrol in the mower, but the bank manager praises them and tells everybody he talks to that they are his triple-A rated customer.”
“Sadly, our State is ending up that way,” Mr Draper concluded.
Rees Commits to Tamworth Hospital Redevelopment
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
In response to a question in Parliament today from Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, Premier Nathan Rees has told the Legislative Assembly that the Clinical Services Plan for the redevelopment of Tamworth Hospital is close to finalisation.
“I look forward to talking with the Member for Tamworth about it in the New Year,” Premier Rees said.
Mr Draper had asked the Premier: “Will you advise the House whether the Tamworth Hospital redevelopment will commence during this term of the Parliament in line with previous State Government commitments?”
“I can assure the Member for Tamworth that the Tamworth Hospital remains a priority and that the refurbishment of the Hospital will commence within this term of Government as previously committed,” was the response from Premier Rees.
The Premier said that the exact timing would depend on negotiations with the Commonwealth on a number of projects. He said that if the Commonwealth chooses to fund some important health infrastructure in one part of the State, it may free up some capital for NSW to bring forward projects in other regions.
Premier Rees chided the Opposition for their constant negative outlook on the project saying: “The Member for Tamworth takes a very different approach from the one we see from the Opposition. He supports, rather than bagging, the clinical workforce, he supports his local hospital, he backs the skilled doctors and nurses and their efforts to provide quality medical services to their community.”
Mr Draper said that despite the Oppositions campaign of doubt regarding the redevelopment of Tamworth hospital, he had continued constructively lobbying the Premier on the issue.
“Despite a lot of huffing and puffing and doomsday predictions about the Governments commitment to the project, the Opposition have still failed to guarantee the priority status I have gained for this project along side other State requirements.”
“Should the Opposition gain the Treasury benches in 2011 they will have the same budget constraints the Government faces, yet already they have been promising support for all sorts of projects around the state. This community deserves a guarantee from Barry O’Farrell the Opposition will adhere to the current schedule if they win Government,” he said.
Mr Draper said he was pleased with the Premier’s commitment, and looked forward to discussing the finalised Clinical Services Plan early in 2009 with Mr Rees.
“This project is far too important to the people of north west NSW to be a political football, so I intend keeping the pressure on both sides of politics in NSW to bring the project to fruition,” Mr Draper concluded.
Draper Calls On NSW Government To Provide Share of Cost of Independent Study into the Impact of Mining on Groundwater
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
In the NSW Parliament today, the independent State MP, Peter Draper, has called on the Government to provide $1.5 million in funding to match the Federal Governments commitment supporting a study into surface and ground water in the Namoi Valley.
Mr Draper applauded the Federal Governments commitment, but pointed out to the State Parliament that the $1.5 million was conditional upon a similar amount being provided by the Mining industry, and also the NSW Government.
“While the state Government is cash-strapped at present, there is a cheque for $300 million from Shenua Coal to secure their exploration rights to the Watermark area, probably in the post right now,” Mr Draper said.
“Earmarking $1.5 million from those funds would be a very sensible investment in gaining much needed knowledge about what water reserves actually exist, and whether they are interlinked.”
“Any further exploration for coal reserves in the ecologically sensitive areas on the Liverpool Plains, and indeed the entire Namoi Valley, should be put on hold until a hydrological study determines any possible impacts mining may have on underground and surface water reserves,” he said.
Mr Draper said that Federal MP, Tony Windsor, had done an excellent job in lobbying the Federal Government to provide funding for such a study, and yesterday’s announcement of $1.5 million was recognition that the Commonwealth sees the issue as a legitimate concern to the Murray Darling Basin.
“The NSW Government appointed Pam Allan as facilitator for a water study of the Liverpool Plains in early October, after realizing there was an issue burning in the community that needed resolution,” Mr Draper said.
“Now that the Federal Government has committed $1.5 million to this project, it is imperative the State Government makes a similar contribution,” he continued.
“I encourage them to move on the issue as quickly as possible,” he said.
Mr Draper said he had remarked some time ago that the campaign mounted by the Caroona Coal Action Group had attracted national support in a similar way to the Daintree and Franklin River campaigns of years gone by.
“Tim Duddy, Doug Rankin, the Caroona Coal Action Group and Namoi Water have all played major roles in getting to this point,” he said.
“And we mustn’t forget the role of Tony Windsor in the Federal arena working with Water Minister Penny Wong and Senator Bob Brown to deliver this funding commitment,” he said.
Mr Draper also said he had been disgusted when the Nationals back flipped in the Senate on support for a Bill to gain an independent study, and by claiming their initial support was an oversight, the Party had made it clear they were prepared to sacrifice the farming sector in favour of mining interests.
“Thankfully, despite the Nationals, the Federal Government has come to the party, so farmers and other interested parties deserve similar support from the NSW Government,” Mr Draper concluded.
Local Emergency Service Flood Response Praised In NSW Parliament
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
In a speech to the NSW Parliament, State MP, Peter Draper, has praised the efforts of local emergency services personnel during the recent rain event that saw Tamworth record its heaviest fall in more than 130 years, with Gunnedah recording the heaviest rain experienced for 34 years.
“The emergency events that developed from Weabonga, Loomberah, Bendemeer and Calala, through to Tamworth, Gunnedah and on to Boggabri demonstrate the professionalism of our State Emergency Service [SES] volunteers, and I recognise the units that were directly involved in this event. SES units from Tamworth, Manilla, Nundle, Gunnedah, Armidale, Liverpool Plains, Tambar Springs, Boggabri, Narrabri, Barraba and Lake Macquarie were all extremely busy over the weekend,” Mr Draper said.
”This event also demonstrated how all of our emergency services and local government work as one when local communities are in need. That no lives were lost in this event is testament to the commitment and dedication of these wonderful people. The Ambulance Service of NSW, NSW Fire Brigades, the Rural Fire Service and the NSW Police Force all assisted the SES in rescuing 11 people on Friday night and two people in Gunnedah on Sunday,” he said.
Mr Draper told Parliament that throughout the region the SES responded to more than 250 calls, and at the height of the event the service had more than 100 people on the ground, resulting in excess of 2,000 man-hours of service. He also highlighted the co-operation between the different organizations involved.
“A wonderful example of the way our emergency service teams work so well together is illustrated by the way Tamworth ambulance paramedics and rescue personnel co-operated in a number of events. At Loomberah, four paramedics spent 13 hours assisting to retrieve a motorist stranded on the roof of a vehicle. During this operation, two of the rescue paramedics were called upon to rescue two SES members, after one member was stranded on a rocky outcrop when the SES boat capsized. Paramedics Dickson and Macrae waded into the rapidly rising river and threw a rescue safety line to the SES officer and pulled her to safety,” he said.
He told Parliament, Commander of the Ambulance Incident Management Team, Tim Collins said: ‘It was an extraordinary team effort by all of Ambulance which included supervisors, Operations Centre staff and individual selfless acts by all of the Ambulance paramedics involved. Their dedication to duty has once again enabled the delivery of timely, professional pre-hospital care in treacherous conditions.’
Mr Draper went on to say, “It is disappointing to me that, despite years of warnings, people still endanger their lives by attempting to enter fast-moving, swollen causeways and other dangerous situations. Whilst these events took place in Tamworth on Friday night, it must be mentioned that severe storms were also occurring in the communities of Gunnedah, Weabonga, Nundle, Bendemeer, Inglebar, Loomberah, Manilla and Walcha, with the SES providing assistance to many, many people.”
“I pay tribute to Namoi SES region controller, Kathleen Cain, local Tamworth controller, Neil Carless, and their dedicated crews for the efficient manner in which they dealt with this flood crisis.”
“In addition to thanking the volunteers, I also thank their families who support them throughout what can be very long hours in the field. I also thank the employers of the volunteers who allow their staff to take time off work to assist their communities. The sacrifice that employers make is often overlooked but is equally worthy of recognition.”
“I urge the Government to ensure that people can readily access the relief that they will need to rebuild their lives and businesses following this natural disaster,” Mr Draper concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
Parliament Hears About Boggabri’s Cloe Davis – An Inspiration To All
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has been so impressed with the community activities of Boggabri’s Cloe Davis, that he took the opportunity to share her story with the NSW Parliament.
“Cloe Davis has fitted a lot into a short life, and she is an inspiration to everybody who has met her,” Mr Draper told the Parliament.
“Cloe was born in 1996 and moved with her family from Mudgee to Boggabri, four years ago. In Boggabri Cloe attended the Public School where she was school captain in 2007. She is now attending high school in Gunnedah and has joined the Gunnedah Student Council,” he said.
“Cloe has always been very community minded. During her time at Boggabri Public she spent her lunch hour assisting with delivery of local Meals on Wheels. She helps out at Boggabri Home and Community Care and is currently working on Boggabri Relay for Life,” he added.
“Cloe Davis is passionate about assisting the Boggabri senior’s community. Cloe decided to organize a fundraiser and came up with a very different concept. Cloe sent out invitations to a make believe event, a river cruise in Boggabri on the Namoi River, which was dry at the time,” he continued.
Mr Draper related how Cloe and her friends continued the make believe theme through the 190 invitations they hand made and sent out, as they were dated for the event to take place on Saturday 32nd October 2008. There was an extremely comprehensive menu, with the entertainment to be provided by Kylie Minogue. Guests were to be picked up by stretch limo and taken to the iron bridge on the Namoi, where they would jump onto the deck of the paddle steamer “Kamilaroi”.
“It is amazing what an active imagination can achieve! Cloe received a response from 70% of the invitations she sent out. The local newspaper ran the story and donations were even received from people who were not initially invited,” Mr Draper said.
“Chloe raised $4,585 and was able to purchase two recliner chairs for the seniors activity room in Boggabri, plus there was enough money left to air-condition the seniors room,” he said.
Mr Draper congratulated Harvey Norman Tamworth who provided both chairs at a very special rate, and also took the opportunity to detail Chloe’s busy sporting schedule.
“From the age of eight she has attended the NSW Public Schools State Cross Country and from 2004 to 2008, only missed the event in 2006 when she was sick. Cloe also competed in Regional Swimming in 2006, 2007 and 2008. In her spare time, Cloe loves horse riding, she is a member of Boggabri Pony Club, representing the club at Blanch trophy days and is also getting involved in equine events through her school.”
“Cloe Davis is an inspiration, and a great credit to her parents and family. Her involvement in her local community is an outstanding example for us to follow,” Mr Draper said.
“At a time when we have an ageing volunteer base it is simply wonderful to find a young member of the community with such vision and drive, who is willing to undertake such a worthwhile project. Cloe, on behalf of the Boggabri community and the Parliament of NSW I would like to say we are very proud of you. Well done, and long may it continue,” he concluded.
Photo: Cloe Davis shows local MP, Peter Draper, how the recliner chairs for the seniors activity room in Boggabri work.
Click here for Hansard.
Carinya School Presented With Environmental Trust Programme Funding
Monday, December 1, 2008
State MP, Peter Draper, today presented Carinya Christian School with a certificate acknowledging $2,500 funding through the Environmental Trust – Eco Schools, Protecting our Places and Research Seeding Grants Programme.
“This funding will be used to develop a whole of school approach to sustainable management, with a specific focus on solid waste management,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said that Carinya produces approximately 150kg of food scraps and sixteen wheelie bins full of rubbish each week, causing significant waste. He said that the programme the school had developed provided an opportunity to reinforce the importance of sustainable waste management to all the student body.
“Through this programme, senior students will be taught the theory and strategies of waste management,” Mr Draper said.
“They will be responsible for both implementing the programme, and promoting its benefits to the younger students in the school,” he said.
“It is hoped that by exposing the younger students to a variety of waste management techniques, that they will be encouraged to practise the ideas at home,” he continued.
Mr Draper said the NSW Government established the Environmental Trust in 1998 to support exceptional environmental projects that do not receive funds from the usual government sources.
“I am very pleased that Carinya Tamworth has followed the environmental theme that saw Carinya Gunnedah receive similar financial support several years ago,” he said.
Mr Draper congratulated Carinya Principal, Grahame Smith and Director of Studies and ‘Wasted Away’ Project Co-ordinator David Jones, plus the schools students for their initiative.
“In recent years the community has become much more aware of the importance of protecting the environment, and initiatives such as the waste material programme developed by Carinya allows students to become involved as part of their learning process,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: State MP, Peter Draper, presents the Environmental funding certificate to Carinya Principal, Grahame Smith, and Director of Studies and the 'Wasted Away Project' co-ordinator, David Jones.
Ongoing Support Essential To Support Flood Victims
Monday, December 1, 2008
State MP, Peter Draper, has thanked the Emergency Services and both Tamworth Regional and Gunnedah Council personnel for moving quickly and decisively to ensure emergency assistance was made available following the region’s floods.
“From Bendemeer, Weabonga and Limbri through Tamworth, across the plains to Gunnedah and to Boggabri the rains have had a massive impact on families, farms and businesses,” Mr Draper said.
“Hopefully farmers can salvage something from what appeared to be one of the best crop in years, however it will take many weeks for Councils to repair the damage to roads and other infrastructure, so the final damage bill is still unknown.”
“Although a figure of more than $15 million is already being tossed around, this will probably blow out further, so it is imperative the Government supports councils, individuals, farmers and businesses in the weeks to come.”
“I thank Emergency Services Minister, Tony Kelly and SES Director-general, Murray Kear who responded quickly, visiting Tamworth on Saturday and declaring the floods a natural disaster, with Gunnedah being incorporated on Sunday.”
“These declarations allow those who need help to obtain it as quickly and easily as possible,” he said.
“I have asked the Minister, today, to also monitor the situation in Boggabri as the waters move downstream,” he said.
Mr Draper said the Department of Community Services could provide assistance to people in distressed financial circumstances due to damage to homes and essential household contents, with additional information available by phoning the State Disaster Recovery Centre on 1800 018 444.
“For Primary Producers, low interest loans of up to $130,000 are available to replace livestock or plant, with further information available from the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593.”
“For information on road and rail freight subsidies for livestock and fodder transport up to a maximum of $15,000 per annum, contact the Department of Primary Industries on 1800 814 647.”
“Importantly, financial help is also available so local councils can permanently restore roads and bridges to pre-disaster standards,” he said.
Mr Draper said that both the Premier Nathan Rees, and the Opposition Leader, Barry O’Farrell, had contacted him over the weekend offering support. He also said the weekend’s events had once again highlighted the dedication and heroism of the regions volunteers and emergency services personnel.
“I can’t speak highly enough of their professionalism under very demanding conditions,” he said.
“There were a number of situations where rescuers put their own lives at risk to save others and the community is extremely grateful for their selfless efforts.”
“We are indeed fortunate to have such wonderful people protecting our communities,” he said.
Mr Draper said he hoped that insurance companies would co-operate to ensure people had their claims dealt with as expeditiously as possible.
“People need rapid assistance to clean up then get on with their lives, so insurance companies can gain a lot of goodwill if they can assist people quickly and efficiently,” he said.
“Representatives of the Suncorp Group, representing the Suncorp, GIO, AAMI, APIA, Shannons, VERO and Just Cars insurance brands have contacted my office saying they are working hard to assist their customers get back on their feet as quickly as possible.”
“Their representative indicated that people wishing to make claims should ring 131446,” he continued.
“The emergency services and Council personnel acted decisively to deal with floods and their impacts, so the community now looks to Government and the insurance companies to ensure they provide ongoing support in a similar fashion,” Mr Draper concluded.
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