Media Releases, February 2011
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Pledge to invest in mining communities a small step forward, but gambling with lives through increased speed limits sends mixed messages on road safety
Monday, February 28, 2011
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has welcomed the Coalition announcing they will invest $160 million on infrastructure in mining communities during their first term should they achieve government. Mr Draper said that local government has not been getting a fair financial return from mining activity as it puts significant pressure on their infrastructure. At the same time, he expressed disappointment that their roads spokesman appears to be sending a mixed message about road safety in relation to speed limits.
"Mining activity increases traffic levels and costs to local government, and it stretches their infrastructure to the limit, so I am pleased the Coalition has attempted to recognise this. However, $160 million over four years will not go very far, as it must be spread between the many Council's across NSW that host mining activity," Mr Draper said.
"While it is a small but positive step in the right direction, I urge the major parties to adopt a model like the Royalties for Regions program in Western Australia, where equivalent of 25% of WA's mining and onshore petroleum royalties are returned to the regions each year for investment in projects, infrastructure and community services," he said.
Mr Draper said that the Gunnedah, Boggabri and Werris Creek regions all faced pressures on their infrastructure and impacts on their local populations as mining activity increased and pushed up prices.
"Local councils urgently need to invest to address those pressures, and to ensure that in the long term they aren't left with nothing when mining operations exhaust their resources. There is a justified fear that when the miners finally withdraw, many regions may face a sudden decline. It is appropriate to applaud this move from the Coalition, but I urge local communities and their councils to maintain the pressure for a fair share of return. Mining in our region helps big companies to post record profits from resources being dug out of our local backyards," he said.
Mr Draper also said he was very concerned that the Coalition's roads spokesman was appearing to put political imperatives ahead of road safety during the election campaign.
"Most people will applaud moves to do away with multiple speed limits across small distances, and to get some consistency in the way they are applied. However, the prospect of increasing speed limits on country roads as a vote catcher, could well lead to a rise in deaths. Unfortunately on roads already sign posted 100 kph many people already do 110kph, while those posted at 110kph regularly see people travelling at 120kph. The condition of many of these roads means people are already pushing the safety limits at these increased speeds," he said.
"It is a proven fact that speed has a direct relationship with collision severity, and the higher the speed, the greater the likelihood of death or serious injury in a collision. We should never lose sight of the reasons why Governments continue to invest time, energy and money into road safety. It is incumbent on Government to reduce needless suffering for families across the country, and it is this objective that should underpin our road safety strategies. They shouldn't be developed on political whim for the sake of a few votes," he continued.
"I note that Professor Raphael Grzebieta from the New South Wales Injury Risk Management Research Centre says that most speed limits are set for specific road conditions, and that if you have to avoid a collision or brake, then the speed limit is set so should you crash, you are travelling at a survivable speed limit. That's why the speed limits change. Experts have shown that the probability of any crash being fatal nearly doubles with every additional 10kph of impact speed, so I would hate to see the proposal to increase speed limits result in such an outcome," Mr Draper concluded.
Draper focussed on local mental health support organisations
Friday, February 25, 2011
Local MP, Peter Draper, has reinforced his support for increased funding for local grass roots mental health support groups on several occasions this week. Mr Draper has met with representatives from the Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW, Tamworth's Billabong Clubhouse, he spoke at the Mental Health Seminar organised by Active Minds and the Schizophrenia Fellowship in Gunnedah, and he has also responded to the NSW Mental Health Association's questionnaire ahead of the State election.
"I was pleased to meet with the Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW representatives, CEO Rob Ramjan AM, and Director of Finance John McAuliffe and I applaud their obvious high regard and support for the great work of both Billabong Clubhouse and Gunnedah's Active Minds. I also hold both groups in very high regard, and assured them of my ongoing support to pursue funding options. I was honoured to speak at the Gunnedah Active Minds' Community Forum, and to relate some of the difficulties facing local grass-roots support groups - despite their many wonderful success stories,' Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said that in response to an election questionnaire from the NSW Mental Health Association, he strongly supported additional funding to assist local mental health support groups including Billabong Clubhouse and Gunnedah Active Minds, plus larger organisations including Anglicare, Catholic Social Services, the Salvation Army and UnitingCare, in continuing to provide services at the grass roots level.
"I firmly believe funding for mental health should be a quarantined component of the health budget. Decades of under-spending and investment in the prevention, early intervention and post-discharge support in mental health must be addressed, and within that budget community mental health funding needs to be a quarantined component itself," he said.
"The system should be reformed to reverse the current spending priorities that see a large portion of mental health funding going to crisis care. Those resources should go to providing community based support aimed at keeping consumers well in the community, and avoiding hospitalisation in the first place,' he continued.
Mr Draper told the Mental Health Association the major problems that be believed needed to be addressed urgently included; insufficient funding for community mental health services to support participation, inclusion and recovery; the need for a specialist workforce to target recruitment and retention of clinical workers for rural and regional areas; the need to regulate provider numbers for psychiatrists by limiting those in metropolitan areas and making them available in rural areas; and negotiating with Federal Health so that staff specialist psychiatrists in New South Wales have provider numbers to write a script for clients on discharge.
"There is a need for more school counsellors to link young people into early intervention programs, and especially to bring equity to the prevention of chronic mental illness for young people in rural and regional centres. There is a need for better access to long-term supported care and accommodation and mentoring services, increased funding for consumer advocacy positions, plus support through short courses in assertive communication, conflict resolution, healthy lifestyle plus drug and alcohol dependency, and supported quit smoking courses," he said.
"The views and needs of local consumers, carers and the wider community should be canvassed widely, and the findings should be a starting point to build better mental health support and services. Local consumer-run mental health services like Billabong Clubhouse and Gunnedah Active Minds have a sympathetic understanding of local needs, and I strongly support increased funding so they can expand their services," Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Discussing local mental health issues this week (from l to r), MP Peter Draper, Billabong Clubhouse President Joan Wakeford, the Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW's Director of Finance John McAuliffe and CEO Rob Ramjan, and Billabong's Director Robyn Lane.
TAFE 'Meet the Candidates'
Local Independent MP, Peter Draper, was delighted to attend the Tamworth TAFE Branch of the Teachers Federation's 'Meet the Candidates' function.
"Over $16 million dollars has been invested in the Tamworth TAFE campus alone over the past four years," Mr Draper told the audience.
"We've seen a much welcomed investment in bricks and mortar, and now it's time to invest in the staff who make the system work and deliver such outstanding results," he said.
Photo: Rob Long (President TAFE Teachers Association), local MP Peter Draper, Jean Coady (Tamworth Representative) and Kathy Nicholson (TAFE Federal Organiser) join some of the teachers who attended the forum to support the 'Invest in TAFE for a better state' campaign.
$300,000 Boost to Tamworth Harness Racing
Thursday, Februrary 24, 2011
Local State MP Peter Draper today welcomed the release of $300,000 in State Government funding to kick-start the development of a new home for North West harness racing in Tamworth. Mr Draper said the Tamworth Harness Racing Club has been given the grant to assist in funding the initial phase of constructing a regional complex, including a new paceway.
Mr Draper, Ian Burkinshaw (Director Tamworth Harness Racing Club) and Llyod Rock (President Tamworth Greyhound Club) today displayed plans and the architectural design concept for the new racing complex that will provide a home for all three racing codes, and one of the best racing precincts in NSW.
"This funding follows many months of negotiations with local racing clubs, their controlling bodies and State authorities, so it is wonderful news for the local racing industry," he said.
Mr Draper said the new facility will be built on eight hectares of former soccer fields at the Federation Park playing fields off Jewry Street, adjacent to the Tamworth Jockey Club.
“The project will take in some of the 40 hectare racecourse site, and will see Tamworth Harness Racing Club share resources and facilities with the Jockey Club," he said.
"Tamworth Harness Racing Club has been conducting their racing meetings at the Tamworth Pastoral and Agricultural Showgrounds for many years under a lease agreement, however a decision by the P&A to sell the land to capitalise on its commercial value means that the Club has to vacate the site," he continued.
Mr Draper said he had been advised that the new Harness Racing precinct plus the Tamworth P & A Society's relocation to their new site represents a capital investment in the order of $10 million in Tamworth.
"Tamworth and surrounding areas form an integral part of Harness Racing NSW’s strategic plans for the future of the industry in the State, as there is no other major facility in the North West region suitable for regular harness meetings," he pointed out.
"This funding support from the NSW Government is vital in ensuring the ongoing viability of harness racing in the region," he continued.
Chairman of the Tamworth Harness Racing Club Charles McCarthy also welcomed the funding announcement.
"Tamworth horses not only race locally, but across a wider spectrum – from Dubbo to Inverell to Newcastle – the region provides significant input and support for the industry," Mr McCarthy said.
Mr Draper said that the development will provide a quite unique opportunity to upgrade existing infrastructure that will benefit all involved in the great sport of harness racing.
"I am delighted that the new track will be bigger and better, meeting the requirements demanded by industry participants and punters into the future," Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Lloyd Rock (President Tamworth Greyhound Club), local MP Peter Draper, and Ian Burkinshaw (Director Tamworth Harness Racing Club), at the unveiling of plans and the architectural design concept for Tamworth's new racing complex. Mr Draper presented State funding of $300,000 towards the initial phase of constructing a regional complex, including a new paceway.
Fears in rural and regional communities over increasing electricity prices continues to rise as confusion reigns supreme
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has welcomed the finding by the Upper House Inquiry that the NSW government's $5.3 billion sale of electricity assets was flawed, and should be cancelled before being completed on March 1.
"Although the inquiry was hamstrung from the word go, I fully agree with their recommendation to immediately rescind the Gentrader contracts so the incoming Government can reassess the future of the electricity industry in NSW. They have also echoed public criticism of the decision by Premier Kristina Keneally to prorogue Parliament in December, as an attempt to stop the inquiry from going ahead," Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper believes that most residents in NSW are still concerned that a real risk of privatisation of the State’s electricity generation, transmission and distribution assets was probable under the next Government, given the refusal of the Leader of the Opposition to rule out such a course.
"People in rural and regional NSW want to know what steps the next government of NSW will take to keep electricity affordable, without having to resort to massive rebates that distort the whole process. They need electricity affordable up front, not subsidised after the fact," he continued.
Mr Draper pointed out that pricing website GoSwitch, in its latest quarterly analysis found rural NSW residents paid the highest charges in Australia averaging $2278 a year, and they predict households will need to find another $42 a week to pay their electricity bills
"A recently released Australian Industry Group study found that energy prices have already increased 30 per cent between 2006 and 2010, more than four times the inflation rate. AI Group chief executive Heather Ridout has warned Australian businesses and households to prepare for escalating electricity and gas prices over the next decade," he said.
''Heather Ridout points to a range of factors indicating that prices will continue moving upward, including the massive network investment, movements in international markets, and an increasing role mandated for higher-cost renewable energy. The report says electricity prices are set to double from 2008 levels by 2015, due to higher prices for coal, new investment in electricity networks, and as Australia imposes a price on carbon emissions," he continued.
Mr Draper said the report rightly claims the greatest driver of the increases has been electricity network charges, which have risen because of upgrades to the transmission network to meet reliability standards.
"This has certainly been a killer for business and agriculture in my region, and one of the key reasons some irrigators have been forced to switch from electricity to diesel as an energy source. This situation is bizarre, when you consider the concerns expressed for the environment and the impact such a trend can have," he said.
Mr Draper said he welcomed the finding that the incoming Government establish a full judicial inquiry into the energy reform transactions, but was concerned the whole scenario is such a mess that a Royal Commission to examine all aspects of the electricity industry was the only solution.
"Many constituents have told me they fear whoever the next government is, they won't have the policies to address these issues before it is too late, and local families, businesses and agriculture are sent to the wall," Mr Draper concluded.
$100 million for hospital very welcome and proves just how important it is to retain independent representatives in regional seats
Monday, February 21, 2011
Local MP, Peter Draper, has warmly welcomed the Coalition's announcement of $100 million towards the Tamworth Hospital, and said that it was gratifying that of the $885 million state-wide allocation for new hospital infrastructure, $292 million – or almost one third of the entire funding – was committed to three regional seats held by independent MPs.
"This is exactly why an independent MP in a marginal seat is important, as the district they represent receives serious attention from all sides of politics," Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper pointed out that the commitments in the three marginal independent electorates were significantly more than the Coalition had allocated to safe National Party seats.
"While Tamworth Hospital attracted a $100 million commitment, The Coalition has also promised $25 million for Parkes, $42.5 million for Forbes and $50 million for Dubbo in Dawn Fardell's electorate, plus $75 million for Port Macquarie held by Peter Besseling. In contrast, veteran National Party MP Thomas George was ecstatic to get just $7.5 million for Lismore and $1 million for Byron Bay Hospital at Ewingsdale," he said.
"I am delighted that $100 million will start the ball rolling, but I am still concerned that the rhetoric from the Nationals has changed from promising a new hospital, to a redevelopment, then an upgrade and now a staged redevelopment. The community has been let down by the current Government, and are looking to the Coalition for a concrete commitment that this is a core promise.
"Mr O'Farrell has already revealed in a speech to the Press Club that his most damaging failing could be not being able to deliver much-needed infrastructure projects within his first term of government, so while billions are being promised in election announcements in Western Sydney and across NSW, it is clear that all these worthwhile projects will need to be prioritized following the election," he said.
Mr Draper said the National's candidate for the electorate of Tamworth seemed very confused when trying to explain to Kelly Fuller how the $100 million would be invested in the hospital project on ABC radio today.
"When asked how the money would be spent, the National's candidate said that details are still to come to light at this stage. He then said the money would be used to develop the Clinical Services Plan, the Health Services Plan and the project development plan to see what the whole area is going to look like.
"The candidate may be surprised to discover that all those plans are actually completed, and have been used as the basis for an application by NSW Health for funding through the Federal Governments $1.8 billion rural and regional hospitals program. The Coalition needs to guarantee that should Federal funding become available, their approach to Federal/State health agreements won't put the redevelopment project at risk," he said.
"Already the Nationals have promised new hospitals all over the state; they've promised more than the entire budget for rural and regional NSW to the Pacific Highway, not to mention promises galore in every electorate they are targeting, so someone is going to miss out. That does not take into account the massive projects Barry O'Farrell has promised for western Sydney, so it is no wonder he is already worried about the Coalition's ability to deliver the entire infrastructure commitments that have been promised," he continued.
"Again I call on Trevor Khan to release his Tamworth Hospital Taskforce report immediately, to see if it can clear up some of the confusion in their candidate's statements. They've had eighteen months to deliver this report, and residents are very interested to see exactly how they plan to roll out the staged development. $100 million is a great commitment, and with the National's candidate guaranteeing the money will be made available on the 27th March, one would hope they have a clear plan as to how that money will be invested," Mr Draper concluded.
Eastern Star must undertake transparent talks with the Mullaley Gas and Pipeline Accord
Friday, February 18, 2011
State MP, Peter Draper, has visited a site near Coolah where a high pressure gas pipeline was exposed to a depth of almost two metres during heavy rain and flooding late last year.
Mr Draper visited at the invitation of the Mullaley Gas & Pipeline Accord (MGPA), which is fighting plans by Eastern Star Gas to bury an even larger pipe on their farms.
"This exposed pipe is in proximity to a main road, and is a potential disaster waiting to happen," Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said concerned farmers had told him that at the time of exposure it involved an operation involving more than fifty emergency personnel and local council workers, with helicopters used to lower sandbags to support the exposed pipe, because the area was too wet for vehicle access. Further repairs are yet to be undertaken.
"I have reported the exposed pipeline to the Ministers office and they have contacted the Environmental Protection Authority," Mr Draper said.
"I have received advice that the Deputy Director General will look at this matter personally, and that the current situation will be assessed shortly," he said.
Mr Draper said MGPA members, who are concerned a similar event could occur on their land, have met with the Minster for Planning, Tony Kelly, who told them he has clearly instructed Eastern Star Gas to look at other routes besides its chosen path across private farmland and black alluvial soil.
"Minister Kelly told the group that there was already a pipeline easement on the Newell Highway further to the south west, and that this would be a more direct route for a pipeline from Narrabri to Wellington," he said.
"MGPA members tell me Eastern Star Gas has yet to respond to an offer by them to meet and discuss its pipeline plans," he said.
"I urge Eastern Star to undertake transparent talks with the MGPA to resolve this issue," Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: The Mullaley Gas and Pipeline Accord's Rorie Cadell shows the exposed gas pipeline to Independent State MP Peter Draper.
632 names on petition highlight anger in Manilla community of facility closure at Split Rock Dam
Friday, February 18, 2011
Local MP, Peter Draper, has been presented with a petition containing 632 names from Manilla residents and interested persons from further afield, calling for the access road to Split Rock Dam and the amenities block to be reopened.
"Manilla resident, Ian Bignell, presented the petition to me following a great deal of discussion in the Manilla community about the issue since the changes at Split Rock Dam were highlighted in the Manilla Express late last year.
"The petition, headed ACCESS DENIED TO MAJOR TOURIST ATTRACTION says; we the undersigned hereby petition the NSW Government to take down the barricade and re-open the amenities building and picnic area," Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the Manilla Express article highlighted the fact that locals, visitors and tourists are now denied direct access to the facilities and amenities at the Split Rock Dam wall area, with gates and fencing being installed at the top of the approach road adjacent to the viewing platform some 700 metres downstream of the main dam wall.
"Residents and tourists are rightly concerned that due to the closure that very little can be seen from the platform at the top of the access road except the face of the dam wall and the roofing of the amenities building. Additionally, excessive growth of trees below the dam wall obscures the river itself and the spillway,' he said.
"Many people are concerned that the security gate was installed last July following what Water authorities say was a publicly advertised call for submissions over 28 days as advised by local government, a process they say they were unaware of.
"It certainly wasn't publicly advertised in the Manilla Express and one would think it would be the most appropriate way to notify the people of Manilla of the proposal," he continued.
Mr Draper said a State Water representative had stated the closures were in line with a broader security upgrade at all major State Water dams.
"It is sad to think that the general public are being denied access to facilities at Split Rock and other dams around NSW because a few vandals and illegal fishers are spoiling things for everyone, however, I am confident if proper consultation had taken place with the community in the first instance, a compromise position could have been found to ensure amenities were still available for visitors," he said.
"After being presented with the petition, I am asking for a representative of State Water to visit Manilla to make amends for previous lack of consultation, and explain to the community why the decision was made. I believe it should be reversed in line with the wishes of the 632 people who have signed the petition, and who hope that common sense can prevail," Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Manilla resident Ian Bignell presenting local MP Peter Draper with a petition containing 632 names calling for the re-opening of the road, amenities block and picnic area at Split Rock Dam.
Chaffey augmentation will require changes for amenity facilities
Local MP Peter Draper has met with representatives of the Bowling Alley Point Recreation Reserve Trust, Derek Hill and Robert Warren (pictured) to inspect facilities for campers at Chaffey Dam, and to discuss changes that will be required when the augmentation process sees the capacity of the dam almost double.
Mr Draper said that while toilet facilities were currently well above water level, the augmentation will see a 7 metre potential increase, so a reorganisation of facilities may be required.
"Additionally, things like boat ramps will be impacted so planning needs to start immediately for the changes that will be needed," he said.
A brimming Chaffey Dam, behind the wall, is clearly visible in this photo along with works taking place as part of Stage I of the safety upgrade.
Communities looking to major parties to spell out how they'll alleviate impacts of cost shifting to Local Government
Friday, February 18, 2011
Local State MP, Peter Draper, has congratulated the Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW (LGSA) for highlighting issues of great importance for all NSW communities ahead of the NSW State Election.
"Local government is the poor relation in our three tiered system of governance in Australia, yet the services it is expected to deliver are the bread and butter issues that sustain each town and village. Prior to every election the problems facing local government are canvassed, but in reality their position continues to become more tenuous because there has been a sad lack of action by the major parties and the other tiers of government to recognise local government, and to put it on a long-term sustainable financial footing," Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the LGSA's NSW Election Priorities 2011, to Improve Local Government financial viability; to restore the balance to land use planning; seeking stronger support for communities; greater natural environment protection; enhanced infrastructure provision and maintenance; and better local governance were all reasonable issues that needed to be addressed by the next State Government as a priority.
"Back in 2003 a report was tabled in Federal Parliament - Rates and Taxes: A Fair Share for Responsible Local Government - which confirmed that local government was under immense pressure because of inadequate financial resourcing, cost-shifting by other spheres of government, and a limited ability to raise its own-source revenue. Fast forward to 2011 and nothing has changed, except the problem is getting worse," Mr Draper said.
"Despite overwhelming evidence of the urgent need for reform to governance arrangements and the financing of Local Government, the issue continues to be ignored by other levels of government. It urgently needs to be addressed before Local Government is forced to introduce further cuts to local services, and some Council may become financially unsustainable. It is vital the next State Government takes local council and community issues more seriously, and commit to improving the sector for the citizens who live in each community," he said.
Mr Draper said according to a 2009 Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW report, cost shifting by the Australian and NSW Government on to NSW Local Government in the financial year 2007/08 was estimated to amount to 5.92% of Local Government’s total income before capital amounts or $431 million. The report said this ratio is consistent with ratios established for previous financial years (5.84% for the financial year 2005/06 and 5.95% for 2006/07). In absolute terms, cost shifting is estimated to have increased significantly from $380 million in 2005/06 and $412 million in 2006/07 to $431 million in 2007/08. Mr Draper said this amount was likely to have increased significantly since.
"The residents of Tamworth Regional Council, Gunnedah, Liverpool Plains and Narrabri Shires, who live in the electorate of Tamworth, and all council ratepayers around NSW, realise that this situation cannot be allowed to continue if their Councils are to provide the services they demand.
"I have, and will continue to support demands by our local Councils for a fairer deal in funding arrangements, a cessation to the erosion of their planning powers, and enhanced infrastructure provision and maintenance, which will lead to better local governance," he said.
"The people of NSW are looking to the major parties to announce policies for Local Government that will overcome the funding issues and provide a sustainable future for Councils battling to meet the aspirations of their ratepayers," Mr Draper concluded.
Once-in-a-generation opportunity to revolutionise the way we provide disability services
Friday, February 18, 2011
Local MP, Peter Draper, believes that plans for a NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to revolutionise the way disability services are provided in NSW, while fundamentally changing the lives of people with a disability, their families and carers.
"The campaign for an NDIS is not just an issue for people with a disability, it is an issue for all Australians," Mr Draper said.
"At the end of this month the Productivity Commission will present its interim report to the government on the proposed Lifetime Care and Support Scheme (NDIS).
"The NDIS is proposed as a new support system that will transform the way services are funded and delivered, ensuring people are better supported and enabling them to have greater choice and control," he said.
Mr Draper said the NDIS would maximize employment opportunities by ensuring people had the support and equipment they needed to work effectively. It would invest in people’s future by providing support or equipment to ensure they are able to complete their education and training, plus provide funding for home modifications and specialized equipment and support to ensure people are able to live as independently as possible in their own homes. It will provide comprehensive family support to allow families to get on with their lives, and most importantly, the NDIS will allow families to choose what works best for them and give kids the best start in life by ensuring they receive appropriate early intervention and support during the early years.
"An awareness campaign, Every Australian Counts, provides additional information on this important issue, and can be accessed through my website www.peterdraper.com.au and clicking on the link.
"Both the Premier and the Leader of the Opposition have acknowledged the importance of putting in place an NDIS as soon as possible. It's not that often we see such bi-partisan support for an issue, so it is pleasing to see bi-partisan support for people with a disability, because it is important to us all," he said.
Mr Draper said that people who access the link on his website can hear people with a disability speak in their own words about an NDIS and the difference it will make to their lives.
"I hope people in our community who care about providing opportunities for people with disabilities will take a look, plus there is the opportunity to log your support. Together, we can make a real difference to the lives of people with a disability, their families and carers by pledging support for the NDIS and joining the campaign," Mr Draper concluded.
Draper encourages submissions to Coal and Gas Scoping paper to assist Coalition develop its Strategic Regional Land Use Policy
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Local MP, Peter Draper, is encouraging local landholders and interest groups battling to preserve prime agricultural land, the soil and water resources, to provide submissions to the current Government's Coal and Gas Scoping Paper. These submissions will provide valuable community input when a future Coalition Government begins to prepare strategic land use plans through their NSW Strategic Regional Land Use Policy.
"The Coal and Gas Scoping Paper raises many of the issues that will have to be worked through by the Coalition in developing their Land Use Policy. It calls for suggestions on ways the planning, regulation and communications around coal mining and gas exploration can be improved, and raises issues including management of the potential cumulative impacts of mining in the Leard State Forest area, managing the potential expansion of mining under and adjacent to the black soil plains, managing the expansion of coal seam gas development, potential effects on aquifers, loss of agricultural land and mine rehabilitation, improved management of potential land use conflicts, world’s best practice dust and air quality management, protecting the amenity and health of people living in population centres, plus mining and coal seam gas land use conflicts with other industries and land uses," Mr Draper said.
"Importantly, it recognises concerns regarding the lack of benefit to regional communities from coal mining, and the need for an assessment that reviews the supply of public services and facilities in key regional centres within coal mining regions and that also identifies where local areas have received long term benefits from mining.
"The Coalition's Strategic Regional Land Use blueprint point out that strategic agricultural land is a finite resource that must be conserved into the future to ensure future food security, so submissions on these important issues will be invaluable when the Coalition attempt to develop policies to protect strategic agricultural land and associated water from the impacts of development. The blueprint states that strategic land use plans will set the framework within which future development will be assessed, so it is important the local community clearly enunciate their expectations on these issues," he said.
Mr Draper said the Coalition's blueprint states; strategic agricultural land is highly productive land that has both unique natural resource characteristics (such as soil and water resources) as well as socio-economic value (such as high productivity, infrastructure and access to markets). Together, these characteristics make strategic agricultural lands essential assets to ensure future food security and retention of strategic agricultural industries.
"This should in itself see the Liverpool Plains automatically protected for future generations of food production, but in the real world the powerful mining interests will exert great pressure to exploit these assets.
"This is why it is vitally important that individuals and local organisations take the opportunity to clearly enunciate their thoughts and concerns on this issue through the scoping paper, which the Coalition have said they will consider as they further develop policy from the motherhood statements in the blueprint," he said.
Mr Draper said that over the 24 hours since the Coalition's blueprint was released he had spoken to many farmers and interest groups determined to save the Liverpool Plains, and other prime agricultural land and water resources around the state.
"Many are disappointed that both sides of politics have left it until just before an election to address the significant community concern on this issue, but are cautiously optimistic that the Coalition's blueprint can be developed into a good strategy. There are still serious concerns that the process could be hijacked due to the financial resources backing the miners. Submissions to the scoping paper will provide an important message from the community regarding their long term aspirations and expectations, and I urge people to contribute," Mr Draper concluded.
Affordable housing is a prerequisite in attracting Police officers to Gunnedah
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Local State MP, Peter Draper, is gravely concerned that high home rental prices in Gunnedah are discouraging Police from taking up transfers to the town, and is calling on the Police Minister and Police Commissioner to urgently purchase or lease suitable properties to provide affordable housing for officers and their families. He sees this as a solution to the Oxley Local Area Command's difficulties in attracting Police to the town.
"It has come to my attention that a number of officers considering an appointment to Gunnedah have rejected the move simply because housing is too expensive for them, so this issue must be addressed," Mr Draper said.
"Rental prices in Gunnedah have risen 38% in the past twelve months. Mining activity has pros and cons for any region, but it is definitely having a negative impact on rental affordability in Gunnedah, thus diminishing the ability to attract essential service personnel. Strong employment, rising wages and a serious housing shortage are all exacerbating the problem," he said.
Mr Draper said Sydney rental prices were unchanged at $480 for houses and $440 for units for the last quarter of 2010, while many properties in Gunnedah were asking between $500 and $600 per week.
"This situation is causing great concern for Gunnedah Shire Council, with Mayor Adam Marshall pointing out that the expansion of coal and gas industries in the Gunnedah basin has resulted in a large amount of speculative, investor, home owner and rental interest in Gunnedah over the last 2 - 3 years.
"Mayor Marshall says this interest is intensifying, with local real estate agents reporting unprecedented demand for housing, especially rentals. Coupled with a shortage of supply and spiralling increases in prices, there is enormous pressure on local families struggling to afford rental properties or considering purchasing a new or existing house in the Gunnedah market," he said.
Mr Draper said the extent of the problem was highlighted by the Principal of Lakeford Real Estate, John Harford, who told the Namoi Valley Independent: “We’re getting 10 rental enquiries everyday – we’ve got them banked up.”
"In looking towards the future, Mayor Marshall says it is clear that this emerging problem will only worsen before it improves, with a number of local mining projects looking to expand or commence within the next 18 months to two years. This will bring hundreds of potential new residents, hoping to buy or rent in Gunnedah.
"Such rapidly escalating prices will obviously make it even harder to attract the essential personnel the community requires, and you can't blame Police officers for rejecting Gunnedah as a posting when rental prices would eat up such a substantial part of their salary," he said.
"Gunnedah Shire Council is very proactive, and the Mayor is recommending that Council urgently co-ordinates a summit-style meeting of local real estate agents, developers, builders, resource companies, councillors, council technical staff plus NSW Department of Planning representatives to discuss local solutions to this issue.
"While this will hopefully result in some long term action to address the problem, it won't alleviate the current difficulties in finding affordable housing for essential service personnel in the short term," he continued.
"The dilemma is finding affordable housing immediately to entice Police officers to move to Gunnedah. The acquisition of housing in Gunnedah by the Police Force must be a priority to help the community attract the officers it so badly needs," Mr Draper concluded.
Release of Strategic Regional Land Use Policy welcome, but farmers disappointed it is mostly motherhood statements
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Local MP, Peter Draper, has welcomed the release of the Coalition's Strategic Regional Land Use Policy in Tamworth today.
"Local landholders have been waiting a long time for the release of this document, and many have expressed disappointment that it leaves little time to fully consider any possible consequences ahead of the State election.
"I am encouraged to see the vexed question of protecting water aquifers is being considered in the document, and also the fact that regional strategies are being proposed to consider local issues. Along with the Government's scoping paper, which I'm pleased the Coalition have indicated they will take into account in their future planning, farmers now have a starting point to debate these issues," Mr Draper said.
"Landholders on the Liverpool Plains are still fighting to protect their prime farming land and sensitive water resources from the threat of mining, and a number expressed concern to me this morning that it appears the new policy document will make no difference to BHP or Shenhua, as they will be able to continue unaffected with their exploration in the Caroona Basin," he said.
"Many landholders raised fears that the devil may be in the detail of the final policy development over the next 12 months. They are also disappointed that Duncan Gay appears to have walked away from his promise to draft the necessary legislation to deliver protection of prime agricultural lands and water resources for public perusal," he continued.
Mr Draper said that while the policy direction looks good on the surface, landholders are rightly concerned it appears the moratorium will only apply to companies yet to submit applications, meaning Liverpool Plains' farmers will still have a tough battle on their hands to protect their lands.
"The worrying thing is this document lacks anything concrete at this time, while providing a 12 month window that allows these important issues to be avoided in the run up to the election. It has farmers asking what the true agenda might be." Mr Draper said.
"The Shadow Treasurer Mike Baird said on A-PAC recently that the Coalition would not support a moratorium on mining, so landholders have asked me what this document really means," he said.
"Fears have been expressed that this interim measure has been ticked off by the Minerals Council, and that they may receive favourable consideration when the true agenda is revealed and policy announced somewhere down the track," he continued.
Mr Draper said landholders in the region had also expressed disappointment that the policy would allow the proposed Eastern Star gas pipeline across the black soil plains near Mullaley to proceed unhindered. Eastern Star, chaired by former Nationals leader John Anderson, has been in conflict with local farmers over the route for some time.
"One angry farmer told me this has every appearance of a political party doing favours for their mates," he said.
"The Coalition has been promising for over nineteen months that it would address land-use security issues associated with mining, so many local people are disappointed that they have only released a five page document promising policy development somewhere in the future. While the Coalition's Strategic Regional Land Use Policy will hopefully stir debate, at this stage the policy offers no long term security for the prime agricultural lands and sensitive water resources that local people are so concerned about," Mr Draper concluded.
NSW Electoral Commission website and call centre is now up and running
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Local MP, Peter Draper, is advising constituents that the New South Wales Electoral Commission’s event website www.votensw.info is now operational, and it contains specific information relating to the NSW State Election 2011 to be held on 26 March 2011.
"The NSW Electoral Commission's call centre is also operational and can be contacted on 1300 135 736. This is the telephone number that constituents requiring information and assistance with matters relating to the upcoming election should call," Mr Draper said.
"I know many people will be pleased to know these services are up and running, as I have had many enquiries regarding different methods of voting and the NSW Electoral Commission is best positioned to answer people's various questions," he said.
Mr Draper said he had already distributed postal vote applications throughout the electorate, and that many people had already completed and submitted them.
"Sadly, the Nationals State Director Ben Franklin stooped as low as you can possibly go in politics, by insinuating in a media release, that the postal voting application form I distributed throughout the electorate may cause local residents to miss out on their vote.
"His statements were completely unfounded, because when public funds are used to produce material such as postal vote applications, the drafts are firstly submitted to the NSW Electoral Commission, and also the Members' Services Department of Parliamentary Services, who appraise the document prior to printing. My office received written confirmation on the 14th January that it complied with all the appropriate guidelines.
"Many people have told me they found this tactic by the Nationals disgusting and contemptible," he said.
"Apart from postal votes, certain electors may register as a general postal voter and if they meet the eligibility requirement, will automatically be sent ballot papers at the time of any Federal, State or Local Government elections.
"Pre-polling is another option available and will be available at the office of any Returning Officer during office hours until 6pm on Friday 25 March 2011, and has similar eligibility criteria as for postal voting," he continued.
Mr Draper said a new remote electronic voting system called iVote will be introduced at the State Election 2011 to enable eligible electors to vote using the telephone or the internet, and the NSW Electoral Commission can advise people as to their eligibility.
"It has been announced that iVote applications will be accepted from Thursday 17th February until Wednesday 23rd March, and iVote will be open for actual voting on Monday 14th March and close at 6pm on Friday 25th March," Mr Draper concluded.
Major parties seem determined to favour miners over prime agricultural land
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
According to Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, with just six weeks to go before the next State election, Liverpool Plains farmers are no closer to knowing what either side of politics intends doing to protect their valuable assets under threat from coal mining and gas exploration, to ensure they aren't destroyed for future generations of food production.
"Many farmers I spoke to in Gunnedah last week at the forum to discuss the preparation of a NSW Coal and Gas Strategy are confused, and very concerned that neither side of politics seems interested in protecting the water and soils of the Liverpool Plains. They said that both sides are leaving their run too late in preparing policy, and are not allowing appropriate consultation and feedback prior to the election," Mr Draper said.
"Farmers expressed concern that the current Government will no longer be in office when submissions to the scoping paper close, and that the incoming Government may well choose to ignore the whole process. At the same time, they believe that the Coalition's failure to release its policies will leave little opportunity before the election for a proper debate.
"They also feel excluded from the consultation process that the Coalition's spokesperson Duncan Gay claims has taken place in developing their policy, and expressed serious concerns the Nationals are too close to the Minerals Council, and are influenced by political donations made by multi-national companies," he said.
Mr Draper said farmers had expressed deep disappointment the Government's scoping paper, - NSW Coal & Gas Strategy - indicates development is likely in three distinct areas of the Gunnedah Basin including: 'The areas on and adjacent to the black soil plains north west of Quirindi, where the Caroona and Watermark exploration licence areas are located', believing this contradicts many undertakings by both the Government and BHP Billiton that the flood plains would be protected from mining.
"In 2009 the Government altered BHP's exploration licence to protect the floodplains, and farmers are rightly concerned that proposals in the scoping paper would be in breach of BHP's coal exploration licence for the Caroona district. They feel that even when they have managed a victory in protecting their livelihoods, moves are afoot to strengthen the position of the coal miners - possibly allowing them to destroy some of Australia's finest farmland," he said.
Mr Draper said the chair of the SOS Liverpool Plains Group, Carol Mackerras, had summed things up succinctly at last week's forum when she said; 'Department of Planning, I thought you should have been here six years ago'.
"The farmers of the Liverpool Plains are tired of a process that appears to favour the miners at every turn, and the delays from the major parties in producing a land use policy that protects water resources and prime agricultural land, while also taking into account the impacts of mining on communities, the environment and other local industries.
"Gunnedah Mayor Adam Marshall was right when he told the forum the region was in 'absolute desperate need' for an overarching strategy determining the way that the state deals with coal mining and gas extraction, and he hoped it wasn't too late to effect change in light of the state election next month," he said.
"I fear that we will hear a lot more rhetoric in the run up to the election, but will go into it with no firm assurances that farmers will get a fair deal in the battle to protect their livelihoods and prime agricultural lands. Both sides of politics have a lot to answer for, and should hang their heads in shame if they abandon farming in favour of mining," Mr Draper concluded.
Khan and Anderson Must Release Taskforce Findings
Monday, February 14, 2011
Local MP, Peter Draper, has welcomed the apparent in-principle support for the Prime Minister's revamped health reform deal from State and Territory leaders, believing greater co-operation between Federal and State Governments is the only way to improve the delivery of health services for rural and regional communities. At the same time, Mr Draper is again calling on Nationals MLC Trevor Khan and candidate Kevin Anderson to release their taskforce report into the future of Tamworth Hospital.
"Last week at the National Press Club, Barry O'Farrell indicated he won't necessarily abide with the National Health and Hospitals Network Agreement, however NSW Health have already submitted a comprehensive application to the Federal Government for funding to undertake the Tamworth Hospital Redevelopment.
"Alarmingly for country people, Mr O'Farrell also revealed he may be not be able to deliver much-needed infrastructure projects within a first term of government, and as the Liberals traditionally focus mainly on Sydney, country projects may be at risk. Mr Khan and Mr Anderson must immediately secure an assurance from Mr O'Farrell that his policies will not put possible funding for this vital project at risk or delay," Mr Draper said.
"It is more important than ever that the Nationals release their Tamworth Hospital Taskforce report, as it was formed to determine what a redevelopment would include following their decision to abandon Jillian Skinner's commitment to build a new hospital in Tamworth. Many people have expressed concern and alarm at the Nationals reluctance to release their findings, especially as their rhetoric has changed since the formation of their Save our Hospital website from 'new hospital', to 'redevelopment', while lately they have only been referring to an 'upgrade'. In 2007, Mr Anderson went to the election pledging just a $15 million upgrade, so it appears that his position has not changed," he said.
"A lot of people who signed the Nationals online Save our Hospital petition are very disappointed that Mr Khan has failed to release the recommendations from his Hospital Taskforce, and they are asking what he and Mr Anderson are trying to hide. Mr Khan made a big song and dance throughout 2009/10 about just how important his webpage and Taskforce would be in determining exactly what the Tamworth Hospital would look like under a Coalition Government. He put out more than 20 media releases and even asked local people to detail their personal and often painful experiences with the health system, yet six weeks out from the election, he and Mr Anderson are still refusing to let local people know what they can expect. If Trevor Khan and Kevin Anderson have nothing to hide, they should immediately release the Taskforce's report, along with the minutes from each of its meetings," he continued.
"When funding for Chaffey Dam was confirmed last week many people commented it sounded as though Mr Khan would have been happier if the augmentation project had not received the tick of approval, and sadly it appears he is now playing the same sort of games with our much needed hospital. They have had eighteen months to prepare the report, so if the Nationals continue to sit on their Taskforce's findings, it will confirm many people's suspicions that the Save Our Hospital campaign was nothing more than a stunt designed to deceive the community," he said.
Mr Draper said that in response to questioning by the Tamworth City News, the National's candidate had stated: 'I am focussed on working with Shadow Health Minister Jillian Skinner in developing a positive, practical policy for our region. The Coalitions health policy will be released before the election'. Mr Draper said local people deserve to have an opportunity to view their blueprint, as Trevor Khan has repeatedly stated that the document will determine how Tamworth Hospital will meet the health needs of our region for decades to come.
"I am fully backing the Tamworth Hospital Redevelopment plans that have been drawn up and approved by a team of more than 50 health experts, yet all their hard work is under threat because of Trevor Khan and Kevin Anderson's stubborn refusal to release their report. The Nationals are treating local people with contempt by not revealing the Taskforce's recommendations. It is critical for Mr Khan and the National's candidate to release the report and to gain an assurance that the Tamworth Hospital Redevelopment will go ahead unchanged should the current application through the National Health and Hospitals Network be successful. Failure will jeopardise local health delivery services for our region into the future," Mr Draper concluded.
$20,000 investment in Tambar Springs Hall provides new opportunities for pro-active community
Friday, February 11, 2011
According to local MP, Peter Draper, the value of the Community Building Partnership was clearly evident when he officially opened the new kitchen facilities at the Tambar Springs Community Hall.
Mr Draper, along with Gunnedah Mayor, Adam Marshall, joined CWA President, Helen Gleeson, CWA Treasurer, Marion O'Neill, Progress Association and Hall Committee Secretary, Robyn Styles, along with other members of the Tambar Springs community for the opening.
"The importance of a program like the Community Building Partnership in providing funding for grassroots community projects, is clearly evident in the results on display here at Tambar Springs today," Mr Draper said.
"The importance of the community hall in small towns cannot be under estimated, and the new kitchen at the Tambar Springs Hall will make catering so much easier for the users.
"Tambar Springs has a population of just over 100, and the community uses the hall for wedding receptions, family reunions, the school Christmas concert, information forums, bingo once a fortnight, and other community events. In March the hall will host the Namoi Group CWA handicraft and cooking day, while later in the year there'll be an event to raise money for The Hamblin Fistula Foundation in Ethiopia, plus the Anglican Church organises a one week Kids Club in July. It really is a community centre," Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the $20,000 invested in the project resulted in new laminated cupboards and marble bench tops, vermin proof storage, a 900mm electric stove, a new sink, new wall cladding, ceiling and electrical rewiring.
"During the official opening, Tambar Springs CWA Treasurer, Marion O'Neill, outlined a substantial contribution by local tradespersons who contributed in kind towards the revamp, and I commend them on their community spirit," Mr Draper said.
Marion O'Neill said the hall will now be much more pleasant for the many local organisations which use it on a regular basis, and hopes that outside organisations will be attracted to hold functions there. She said it was a great advantage that the kitchen will now allow organisations to cater for much larger functions.
Mr Draper said it had given him a great deal of pleasure to facilitate the funding on behalf of the Tambar Springs CWA, Hall Committee and Progress Association.
"While Tambar Spring's population is small, it is a very proactive community, and richly deserves this investment," he said.
"I would like to thank the Tambar Springs residents for their warm welcome in sharing a much appreciated cuppa, a delightful spread, and to congratulate everybody on the obvious community spirit which has delivered such a successful outcome for their town," Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Gunnedah Mayor Adam Marshall, Tambar Springs CWA President Helen Gleeson, Progress Association and Hall Committee Secretary Robyn Styles, local MP Peter Draper, and CWA Treasurer Marion O'Neill, inspect the refurbished kitchen facilities at the Tambar Springs Community Hall.
Locals encouraged to support the Salvation Army's Flood Relief Appeal for Mingoola and Bonshaw communities by attending Tamworth XI vs Northern Tablelands XI charity cricket match
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Local MP, Peter Draper, hopes anyone who enjoys a game of cricket and likes to support a good cause will make their way to Tamworth's Number 1 Oval, on Friday night, to watch his Tamworth XI battle it out with Richard Torbay's Northern Tablelands XI, for the Torbay Cup.
Mr Draper said the competitive battle for the Cup was in its third year and he would be encouraging the Tamworth team to maintain its successful record and make it a hat trick of wins.
"The Tamworth IX actually comprises players from around the electorate while Richard's XI has players from around the Northern Tablelands, so it is an opportunity to see some of the north's best and up and coming players in action," he said.
"While the cricket match is also the chance for a bit of fun, I hope the real winner on the night is the Salvation Army's Flood Relief Appeal for the Mingoola and Bonshaw communities in northern NSW and I encourage locals to stick their heads in at the match from 6pm Friday night," he continued.
Mr Draper said he was confident the Tamworth IX comprising Tamworth players, Tom Groth (Captain), Aaron Hazlewood, Brendan Rixon, Luke Fox, Harrison Kelly, Bill North, and Gunnedah players, Jordan Lumby, Mat Brady, Ben Middlebrook, Andy Mack, Adam Lole, and Richard Shipman will give a good account of themselves on the night.
"My daughter has taken a great interest in playing cricket in the past twelve months and I have come to realise the strength of women's cricket, so I am particularly delighted that Jordan Lumby, who captained the NSW U/15 women's team at the National Championships, is playing for the Tamworth XI and Emily Leys, who recently captained NSW at the U/18 Women's National Championships, playing for the Northern Tablelands XI," he said.
Mr Draper said the double wicket competition at half time will pit Adam Marshall and himself against Richard Torbay and Professor Barber.
"We get to bowl an over each and I'm looking forward to opening the bowling against Richard before donning the pads when Adam and I face Richard and Professor Barber aiming for our wickets!" he said.
Mr Draper pointed out that the success of the night would be largely due to the wonderful support of local sponsors and volunteers who were throwing their weight behind the Salvation Army's Flood Relief Appeal for the Mingoola and Bonshaw communities.
"I would particularly like to thank Joblink Plus, my sponsors for the event, for their commitment since the series commenced. It is indicative of their community spirit and involvement.
"All the sponsors and volunteers are being very generous with their money and time so I encourage the rest of the community to support their efforts, get along to the game, and help others from our region whose lives have been devastated by floods," Mr Draper concluded.
$3,300 funding will help local Air League build on good work
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
According to local MP, Peter Draper, when Mark Palmer (Squadron Officer Commanding Australian Air League) and colleagues Mark Hemmings, Dan Keating, Rex Rogers and Daniel Cannon took over running the Tamworth Squadron two years ago there was a membership at the time of just three Cadets.
"At the time there was a real danger of the squadron closing due to lack of numbers and adult support. Thanks to the hard work of those gentlemen, today the squadron is stronger than ever with a roll of 30 cadets and they meet every Friday from 6.30pm to 9pm, providing many activities. When Mark outlined this story to me I was very happy to go into bat for the squadron for funding to support their activities, and today I'm pleased to present them State funding of $3,300 to build a flight simulator to be used for training purposes," he said.
Mr Draper said some of the squadrons recent activities included -
- A visit to Williamtown airbase at the invitation of the RAAF
- Two visits by aircraft owned by their National group, allowing all cadets time in the air to put their theory into practice.
- Competition with their Sydney counterparts on a regular basis.
- Attend services and march on ANZAC Day
- Participated in the Tamworth Cavalcade with a group of 55 Cadets assisted by The Riverwood Squadron with a contingency of 12 drums.
- Undertaking roll of Honour Guard at the Truck Drivers Memorial every year.
Mr Draper said the squadron's aim is to encourage an interest in aviation in the youth of our community.
"Activities include education in the basics of flight and aviation, and formal training of young people to give them a head start for a career in aviation in later life. This includes exams and badges that can be achieved, flying time in the air using pilots involved with the Air League and support of volunteers, fostering team work with proficiency and training in drill, plus competing regularly with other Squadrons across the country. Currently they have two cadets studying their BAK (Basic Aeronautical Knowledge) which is the theory for them to complete their exams towards their private Pilots Licence. The aim is to have these cadets in the air with all their theory complete by the legal flying age of 16," he said.
"Thanks to Peter Draper's efforts and this State funding we can now make all of this a reality. The funding will enable us to build a fully functional Flight simulator that will have the ability to log real flight time for these cadets against the Pilots Licence. It will also give the younger Cadets a practical feel for the things we are trying to teach from books. It is very difficult to explain to an eight year old how a rudder or Aileron works, but if you jump in a simulator and do it, it explains itself," Squadron Officer Mark Palmer said.
"We really hope this will attract more interest in our Squadron, and help to continue our steady growth. It's a great thing, and our youth benefit from organisations like ours, providing them with an interest and goals. We can always do with an extra hand and currently need adult assistance. If people are interested in helping young people better themselves give me a call on 0438 003 349. Your assistance would be greatly appreciated and can only help us grow," Mark continued.
Mark also acknowledged the Local Scout group, who over the past 2 years have done all they can to help the squadron achieve their growth potential.
"They share a hall, they helped us at the Cavalcade with accommodation for 42 Cadets, and numerous other events. It is a belief we all share, that it doesn't matter which organization a young person joins, so long as we are there to give them that opportunity," Mark said.
"Mr Draper said he was pleased to help an organisation that valued, mentored and built the character of our youth, and that further information about joining the squadron was available by contacting Mark Palmer on 0438 003 349 or Mark Hemmings on 0427 673 188," Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Local MP, Peter Draper, presents Tamworth Australian Air League Corporal Chris Brandon with a cheque for $3,300 towards a flight simulator to be used for training purposes.
Commitment to fast track $43.3 million Chaffey augmentation plus safety upgrade will see construction start in 2012
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Independent MP Peter Draper today said the safety of Tamworth/Peel Valley communities would be improved and future water supply guaranteed with the fast tracking of the safety upgrade and augmentation of Chaffey Dam with $23 million of State and $17 million of Federal funds now committed.
"Today is a terrific day for the future of Tamworth and the Peel Valley, and is the culmination of three and a half years of serious discussion and hard work by many people to develop this vision that will secure the region's water security. It is an outcome that I too have passionately worked on for many years," Mr Draper said.
"With confirmation of this funding from State and Federal Governments, Chaffey Dam’s augmentation and completed safety upgrade will happen together next year," he said.
Mr Draper said the Tamworth region is an integral region of inland NSW and has a booming economy, so securing the water supply and keeping local communities safe is a priority.
"Those with vision in our community have been screaming for this project to start for a long time, so I’m glad that has been recognised. I welcome last night's commitment by Tamworth Regional Council to the Barraba pipeline, and now look forward to their re-commitment to the vital Chaffey project. Together, these investments will provide water security for the TRC region into the future," he said.
"This project is immensely important for the security of our local community. It affects everyone, from farmers, to local businesses and residents, so this announcement will bring renewed confidence to develop new industries and encourage population growth," he continued.
"On top of securing our safety and our water supply, I am confident that our local economy will be given a boost with the employment of workers plus the sourcing of materials from local businesses. This is a real win-win for the Tamworth/Peel Valley community," he said.
Mr Draper said that while he had long been an advocate for the project, having made many representations to relevant State and Federal Ministers, the outcome came from the development of a strong business case, co-operation between Federal and State authorities to build the region into the future, the groundwork of the Chaffey Dam Reference Panel, plus ongoing work by the Namoi Catchment Management Authority (NCMA).
"I acknowledge the goodwill of Ministers Burke and Costa and the hard work of their departments, plus Federal MP Tony Windsor's strong commitment, and especially Bruce Brown from the CMA who chairs the Reference Panel, and Phil Betts who chaired the Panel when it was formed," he said.
Mr Draper said now that the funding would be brought forward, he would keep pressure on Government to make sure that any environmental assessments and planning studies are done as soon as possible.
“Now the momentum has started, the last thing anyone wants to see is for the wheels to come off during the planning process, so I will be keeping the pressure on the NSW Government to make sure this project gets off the ground on schedule,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Tamworth and the Peel Valley will gain greater water security following the announcement of $43.3 million to fast track the augmentation and safety upgrade of Chaffey Dam, which will see construction start in 2012. Tamworth Regional Council Mayor, Col Murray, local MP Peter Draper, and Namoi Catchment Authority CEO Bruce Brown, celebrate the announcement on the banks of the Peel River.
Nat's claim re postal vote applications deceitful, misleading and plain wrong
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Independent Local MP, Peter Draper, has dismissed allegations that a postal voting application form he has distributed throughout the electorate may cause local residents to miss out on their vote. Mr Draper described the claims as nothing short of deceitful, and deliberately misleading.
Mr Draper said the Nationals had already tried to pull a similar stunt in the seat of Port Macquarie, with a media release full of statements like: "might not be accepted", "may not be valid", "there is no guarantee that those who fill in the form will get their vote", "may miss out on their vote" and "question mark over whether the brochure complies with electoral law".
"When public funds are used to produce material such as postal vote applications, the drafts are submitted to the NSW Electoral Commission, and Members' Services Department of Parliamentary Services, who appraise the document prior to printing. My office received written confirmation on the 14th January that it complied with all the appropriate guidelines, at the time of printing," he said.
"Since the postal vote applications were printed new guidelines have been introduced, but at the time of printing, use of the words "authorised by" were not required and I received written confirmation clarifying this matter in January," he continued.
Mr Draper said it appears the Nationals were attempting this subterfuge because according to their misleading media release they would not be distributing any postal vote applications until February 14.
"Frankly, I think members of the community will find this tactic by the Nationals disgusting," Mr Draper concluded.
Postal vote applications now being delivered - Information regarding postal, pre-poll and iVote available from Draper's Office on 6766 1422
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Independent Local MP, Peter Draper, said his office had received many recent enquiries regarding postal vote application forms, indicating a good deal of interest in the community about the upcoming State election.
"I have sent out postal vote applications across the electorate and Australia Post are currently delivering them. I know some households have received them, while others will in the next couple of days," Mr Draper said.
"If however, residents don't receive a postal vote application form, or require more, I invite them to contact my office on 6766 1422 or call in at the office, 13 Fitzroy St. They also have the option of requesting one be sent out by emailing tamworth@parliament.nsw.gov.au," he said.
Mr Draper said the postal vote application forms he had sent out contained two applications with a pre-paid return post facility, and he was happy to provide more upon request.
"The eligibility criteria for a postal vote include a person; not being in New South Wales between 8.00am and 6.00pm on election day, not being within 8 kilometres of any polling place open on election day between 8.00am and 6.00pm, travelling under conditions which will prevent you from voting at any polling place between 8.00am and 6.00pm on election day, are sick, infirm or approaching maternity and cannot attend a polling place, are caring for a person, not in hospital, who is sick, infirm or approaching maternity and cannot travel to a polling place, are a member of a religious order or have religious beliefs which prevent you from attending a polling place or voting between 8.00am and 6.00pm on election day, are in prison and are precluded from attending any polling place to vote, will be working between 8.00am and 6.00pm on election day and will not be able to attend at a polling place to vote, are a silent elector, have a disability as defined under the anti-discrimination act; or believe that attending a polling place on election day will place their personal safety, or that of their family members, at risk," he said.
Mr Draper added that certain electors may register as a general postal voter and, if they meet the eligibility requirement, will automatically be sent ballot papers at the time of Federal, State or Local Government elections.
He said that pre-polling was another option available.
"Pre-poll voting is available at the office of any Returning Officer during office hours from Monday 14 March until 6pm on Friday 25 March 2011, and has similar eligibility criteria as for postal voting," he said.
Mr Draper said a new remote electronic voting system called iVote will be introduced at the State Election 2011 to enable eligible electors to vote using the telephone or the internet.
"Originally, this initiative was planned to assist voters who are blind or have low vision to cast an independent vote. The legislation subsequently introduced has broadened those eligible to use the iVote option to electors who are illiterate, or have other disabilities, live more than 20km from a polling place or will be interstate or overseas on election day.
"Those eligible will be able to apply by completing an online application or by calling the iVote call centre, details about which are still to be released. It has been announced that iVote applications will be accepted from Thursday 17th February until Wednesday 23rd March, and iVote will be open for actual voting on Monday 14th March and close at 6pm on Friday 25th March," he said.
"Availability of postal vote applications is vital in rural and regional communities, as is information regarding pre-poll voting and the new iVote. I encourage anyone who requires further information or applications to contact my office," Mr Draper concluded.
Gunnedah Student to represent Tamworth electorate at YMCA Youth Parliament
Monday, February 7, 2011
Watch out Peter Draper! The electorate of Tamworth has a new youth representative in NSW state politics this year with Gunnedah St. Mary's College student, Miranda Broekman, selected for the YMCA NSW Youth Parliament 2011.
Mr Draper said Miranda was one of only 110 individuals selected state wide to take part in this prestigious program that provides young people between the ages of 15 and 18 with an opportunity to voice their opinions on issues that are important to them and their local communities.
"This year will mark the 10th year anniversary of the YMCA NSW Youth Parliament, an apolitical program, and is expected to be the biggest and best yet! The program received well over 140 applications from all across NSW with 110 young people selected, representing 70 electorates from both metropolitan and regional areas," he said.
The Member for Tamworth is delighted that one of his younger constituents will be represented in the NSW Parliament later this year, and believes it is fantastic to see such enthusiasm from the local youth community.
"I have no doubt that Miranda will act with the best interests of the region at heart and help produce a bill that will be recognised by the Government. Miranda is ready to represent the electorate and take on fellow youth MPs in the Bear Pit of NSW Parliament House," Mr Draper said.
"I signed up for the YMCA Youth Parliament because I have been interested in politics for as long as I can remember. I can't wait to go into the NSW State Parliament and it was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. There is a lot of work involved before I go to a three day camp in April and a five day camp in July, but I'm up for the challenge," Miranda said.
"I have been engaged in discussion with other members of the Youth Parliament via email and I am surprised at how involved and serious the other members have been in discussing the bill we are developing to present to Parliament. I am looking forward to the whole experience and was quite surprised that there are other people out there like me - political nerds. I’ve got some big shoes to fill in representing Tamworth, but I’m ready to tackle the issues I’m really passionate about," Miranda continued.
Mr Draper said the youth MPs have been divided into committees to create bills on the important issues within their portfolio. He said that this year there are ten committees, representing the most important and topical issues facing the state and that Miranda is a member of the committee investigating Health & Medical Research.
"I’m excited to be a representative for Tamworth as well as be a part of the YMCA NSW Youth Parliament program! It accurately reflects the NSW State Parliament with ministers and shadow ministers, question time and ministerial statements; and we’ll get a taste of what MPs like Mr Draper do!" Miranda said.
Mr Draper said that once bills have been finalised, the YMCA NSW Youth Parliament will convene for a week in July and Youth Parliamentarians will debate their bills in NSW Parliament House where the bill will be presided over by NSW Members of Parliament. He said that at the end of the week, passed bills are presented to representatives from both the Government and Opposition.
"The Youth Parliamentarians encourage local young people to contact them through the YMCA’s Youth Parliament Coordinator, Annie Lam, if they have any issues that they believe should be raised in Parliament.
Annie can be contacted at annie.lam@ymca.org.au cc yp.media@ymca.org.au or (02) 9633 8233," Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Local MP, Peter Draper, and Gunnedah Mayor Adam Marshall (himself a past Youth Parliamentarian), congratulate Miranda Broekman on her selection as the electorate of Tamworth's representative at the 2011 YMCA Youth Parliament.
Barraba Showgirls
Peter and his wife Sharon had a very enjoyable evening when they attended the Barraba PA&H Association 2011 Showgirl presentation.
Peter is pictured with 2011 Barraba Showgirl winner Julia Crowley and contestant Desrae Rogers.
Gunnedah Community Scholarship Fund Presentation Ceremony
Monday, February 7, 2011
Local MP, Peter Draper, was delighted to attend the Gunnedah Community Scholarship Fund Presentation Ceremony.
"It is a measure of the Gunnedah community's spirit that this Scholarship Fund has been developed, as it provides opportunities for local youth in furthering their education, plus it is an important tool to encourage young people to remain in the area," Mr Draper said.
Photo (top, by courtesy, Namoi Valley Independent): Local MP Peter Draper addresses the audience at the Gunnedah Community Scholarship Fund Presentation Ceremony.
Gunnedah school captains were masters of ceremony - pictured is St Mary's College Captains Braden Ludlow and Miranda Broekman and Gunnedah High School Captains Gabrielle Reynolds and Evan Piefke.
Photo (bottom, by courtesy, Namoi Valley Independent): All the Gunnedah Community Scholarship Fund recipients along with representatives from the local business community, Gunnedah Mayor Adam Marshall and local MP Peter Draper.
Funding will allow Australian Country Music Foundation to preserve and share their collection of national and internationally significance
Monday, February 7, 2011
According to Local MP, Peter Draper, more than $7,000 in State funding will assist the Australian Country Music Foundation (ACMF) digitise their massive collection of photographs, film and video, and is strong acknowledgement of just how important this collection is to Australia's musical and cultural history.
"This project will allow the Foundation to preserve many important elements of Australia's rich country music heritage for future generations. The ACMF have been given the status of a nationally and internationally significant collection, and as it is housed here in Tamworth, I am pleased to see our enthusiastic local volunteers being supported in their efforts to progress the preservation process," Mr Draper said, when presenting a cheque for $7,540 to ACMF President, Eric Scott.
"The objectives of the ACMF are to collect, preserve and make available to the community the history and heritage of Australian Country Music. It seeks to achieve this goal in two ways, through the exhibits of its Australian Country Music Hall of Fame and its archive. Both are housed in the heritage listed Mechanics' Institute in Brisbane Street, Tamworth," he said.
Mr Draper said when seeking the funding assistance, Mr Scott had told him The Australian Country Music Foundation and the Australian Country Music Hall of Fame are run completely by volunteers.
"The volunteers are incredibly enthusiastic about what we do, and are all very grateful to Peter Draper and the NSW government for recognising the importance of our work which at times can be extremely expensive - not only with the need for specialised equipment, but also 500 year rated acid free storage containers, and so on," Mr Scott said.
"These funds will extend our "PicSave" project into preserving priceless video recordings as well as our thousands of historic still photographs. We have been offered two major video collections in addition to our present collection which we will now be able to preserve by digitisation. There are many thousands of man-hours involved in video alone," he said.
"We are custodians of Australian and New Zealand country music history dating back to the early 1930s. Our earliest artefact is an experimental electric lap steel guitar built by Tom Wells and Harlan Bodkin (the father of key pedal steel guitarist, Norm Bodkin). These, of course, were amongst the very earliest attempts in the world at electrifying acoustic instruments," Mr Scott continued.
Mr Draper said the ACMF has developed an extensive Collection, from 78rpm records to CDs. From the dresses of the female entertainers to the boots and buckles of the men, a wide range of instruments, many documents relating to the lives and careers of performers and song writers, portraits and photographs of the people involved as performers and fans, plus an extensive range of films and videos on Australian Country Music being performed.
"From the mid 1930s to the late 40s, people like Tex Morton, Buddy Williams, Smoky Dawson, Shirley Thoms, Gordon Parsons, Slim Dusty and Dusty Rankin developed a distinctly Australian form of country music. They, and many who followed in their footsteps, are honoured on the Australian Country Music Roll of Renown, and now the ACMF will also be able to maintain much more of that fabulous history through their preservation efforts," he said.
"The ACMF can now take a major step forward with its Collection by ensuring the longevity of its contents, and making it available to a wider public who may visit via the Internet," Mr Draper concluded.
Photo (top): The Australian Country Music Hall of Fame, situated at 93 Brisbane Street Tamworth, is the home for much of Australian Country Music's rich history. Volunteers, Bev McCumstie, Max Ellis, Barrie Brennan, Gary Collins, Lorraine Pfitzner, Eric Scott, Judy Loffel and Diane Bartlett celebrate $7,540 of funding to digitise their collection of photographs, film and video presented by local MP Peter Draper.
Photo (bottom): "Surrounded by History" - Australian Country Music Hall of Fame volunteers, Eric Scott, Diane Bartlett, Judy Loffel, Max Ellis, Barrie Brennan, Lorraine Pfitzner, Bev McCumstie and Gary Collins, celebrate the announcement of funding to digitise their massive collection of photographs, film and video, with local MP, Peter Draper.
$6.75 million commitment to pipeline means all players are now awaiting Council's preferred option - This window of opportunity must not be lost
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Local MP, Peter Draper, has welcomed a commitment from the Coalition to provide $6.75 million as a future State Coalition Government's contribution towards a Split Rock Dam to Barraba pipeline. He said he respected the Coalition candidate's undertaking that win-or-lose, the pledge would be honoured.
"I have only had the honour of representing the Barraba community in Parliament for four short years, and I am proud that by working with the community, our Federal Member, and picking our way through the bureaucracy involved with three tiers of government involved, Barraba is closer to getting a pipeline than at any time since it has been investigated over the last twenty five years.
"The Coalition's pledge means both the incoming State Government, and the Federal Government are both now waiting on a report from Tamworth Regional Council (TRC) that a pipeline is their preferred option before giving the project a final go ahead," he said.
"The only document TRC has provided to the Office of Water still shows groundwater as Council's preferred option, so a report showing the pipeline as the way forward is still needed.
"Whether the matter can be finalised quickly, or continues to frustrate the Barraba community is now dependent on TRC declaring a pipeline their preferred option. There is currently a window of opportunity for Council to make this project happen, however this could be lost if a change of State Government requires the negotiations that have taken place recently to go back to square one," he continued.
Mr Draper is calling on the Coalition to give the Barraba community an undertaking that it will continue the process that is currently in train to a successful conclusion, and not allow it to become a victim of Federal/State disagreement into the future.
"The commitment to $6.75 million is greatly appreciated by the Barraba community and all who have been fighting for a pipeline, but it needs to be an unencumbered commitment, as experience shows that if strings are attached it can be difficult to keep all the other players on board," he said.
"The need for a safe, dependable water supply for Barraba is vital, and can only be achieved through building a pipeline. This is now dependent on a positive recommendation for this option from Council, so the sooner this option is placed before the State and Federal Governments, the better the chances of final success," Mr Draper concluded.
Latest IPART determination another disgusting grab for cash – Farmers have good reason to call for its scrapping as nothing more than smokescreen for Government to avoid its responsibilities
Friday, February 4, 2011
Local MP, Peter Draper, has expressed his disgust at the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal's (IPART) final report on the Review of prices for the Water Administration Ministerial Corporation to be applied by the NSW Office of Water from 1 July 2011.
"IPART has lost all credibility and should be scrapped. The wider community, with some justification, believe its agenda is set in advance. This latest report yet again ignores the socio-economic impacts and all equity goes out the door in NSW," he said.
Mr Draper said he had heard nothing but frustration and exasperation in the voices of local irrigators he had spoken to about the report.
"This IPART determination, particularly when combined with other recent determinations for electricity and water, means production costs are overtaking the price they obtain at the farm gate.
"One local irrigator told me the determination would increase his charges by $40,000 over four years. Another told me it was the last straw and he will have to seriously consider closing his operation," he said.
Mr Draper said the forecast increase in bills over 2010 to 2014 for the Peel, Lachlan, North Coast, Hunter and South Coast was 73%, which compared with 19% for the Murray, 29% for the Border Rivers and 30% for the Murrumbidgee.
"Equity in NSW has gone out the door. It will make it impossible for some river valleys to compete into the future. That is why I introduced the Water Management Amendment (Bulk Water Charges) Bill 2010 into Parliament to try and stimulate a debate about the inequity, and to find some fairness. This debate is now needed more than ever," he said.
"As one irrigator told me earlier today the lack of uniformity around the State means producers are no longer on a level playing field. Yet, when they put their concerns to IPART they feel like they are hitting their heads against a brick wall. Another told me, they are creating an income for themselves by milking the community," he continued.
"There is anecdotal evidence IPART's combined determinations are having an even more insidious impact with mental health issues on the rise in the farming community," he said.
"A number of local irrigators told me it is time for a wide ranging inquiry into IPART or preferably to scrap it. They reckon we got along fine before it was created and that it only provides a smokescreen for Government to avoid its responsibilities," Mr Draper concluded.
Families, small business and farm sector looking for Mr O'Farrell to follow Premier's lead and rule out further privatisation of electricity industry
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has welcomed the Premier's announcement that she will axe $100 of this year's planned electricity price rises, and also rule out any future privatisation of the state's electricity assets.
"The Premier has finally realised how much anger there is in the community over the botched electricity sale, however the public is now looking to the likely next Premier, Barry O'Farrell, to also commit to ruling out any future privatisation, and to detail his policy to ease the burden of electricity charges. The people of NSW deserve affordable electricity, and want to know what plans the Coalition have to deliver this outcome," he said.
"The whole sorry electricity sale saga is changing so quickly it is hard to keep up with events. The Government appears to have totally lost control of the agenda, however Nationals MLC, Trevor Khan, who is a member of the Upper House inquiry into the selloff, is reported in Tuesday's Northern Daily Leader saying 'the Coalition would release its policy when it knew what the State Government was doing with the electricity assets'.
"Pity-help the people of NSW, if less than two months from the election, the likely next Government is waiting to 'know' what the incumbents are doing before developing their own policy," he said.
"The Upper House Committee has failed to get the bottom of this mess, and it seems unlikely the Public Accounts Committee, of which I am a member, will be convened, as the Chair Paul Gibson has been reported as saying there's one chance in a million of that happening," he continued.
Mr Draper said he supported the call by Upper House MP, John Kaye, for the Government to cancel the first round of its sale, following the latest collapse.
"A new Government should be able to begin with a clean slate after the election, but the residents of NSW deserve to know exactly how the Coalition plans to put this industry on a long-term sustainable footing, while keeping electricity affordable for everyone," he said.
"The way electricity has been promoted as a power source over many years means many homes, particularly in rural and regional areas, have become dependent upon it as their sole source of energy. This makes it even more important to keep prices affordable," he continued.
"It appears the Government has completely lost the plot, and the Opposition are waiting to see if they can find it again before announcing any policy. Sadly, the long suffering NSW public will continue to be a victim of what has become an unbelievable soap opera. As Parliamentary committees have failed to get to the bottom of this issue, I still believe a Royal Commission is the only way the people of NSW can regain confidence of getting a fair go into the future, and actually find out the truth behind the entire sale debacle," Mr Draper concluded.
With less than two months to election, National's candidate must release findings of his party's Tamworth Hospital Taskforce and detail whether their policy will negatively impact upon progress to date
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
In May 2009, the Nationals established their Tamworth Hospital Taskforce to develop its approach to the future service and facility needs of the Tamworth Hospital. Local MP, Peter Draper, is calling on the National's candidate to immediately release the report from this group so local people can assess it before the election.
"The Nationals established their taskforce in April 2009, after they abandoned Shadow Health Minister, Jillian Skinner's commitment to redevelop Tamworth Hospital. At the time, the National's also launched an online petition, with their leader, Andrew Stoner saying; 'The Nationals have always been 100% committed to upgrading Tamworth Hospital, but we want to make sure we know exactly what’s required, how much it will cost, and how long it will take. That’s why we’ve set up a task force to answer these questions'.
"We are now less than two months from the State election, so it is time for the National's candidate to release details of exactly what his party believes is required, their full costings, plus reveal exactly how much they are prepared to commit, and how long construction will take," Mr Draper said.
"With every elected member of the NSW Nationals and many potential ministers in town today, it is a fitting opportunity to unveil the taskforce's findings, and detail whether they intend to increase their commitment of just $15 million made prior to the 2007 election. Back in February 2009, MLC Trevor Khan said; 'The people of the Tamworth region have been waiting long enough for real progress on the Tamworth Hospital Redevelopment', so he should join his candidate and make their party's hospital policy available for the public immediately," he continued.
Mr Draper dismissed claims from the National Party candidate that little has happened in relation to the project over the last term of Parliament.
"When I was elected, New England Health had the Tamworth Hospital redevelopment scheduled to start the planning phase in 2018, with construction earmarked to commence in 2021. I obtained a commitment to the redevelopment from former Premier Iemma in 2007, and along with the community, I was bitterly disappointed when the current Premier failed to deliver on that pledge in the 2010/11 State budget. Over the past four years, more than fifty professionals have worked to deliver the Tamworth Hospital project Service Procurement and Project Definition plans that were prerequisites before any construction could start," he said.
"By working closely with local community organisations, doctors, clinicians and other health professionals, plus Hunter New England Health, the Health Minister's office and my Federal colleague, over $40 million has been obtained to build the North West Regional Cancer Centre at the hospital site, while planning is underway for the $10 million+ Maternity Unit upgrade as part of Stage I of the redevelopment. An application has also been submitted through the National Health and Hospitals Network Agreement for Federal assistance to complete the Tamworth Hospital redevelopment, and I look forward to an announcement on that application in the near future," he said.
Mr Draper said the National's candidate must also guarantee that reports the NSW Coalition may not continue with the National Health and Hospitals Network Agreement, will not threaten the prospects of Tamworth Hospital Redevelopment going ahead, should the application be successful.
"The Hunter New England Health team and State Health have put forward an excellent submission, and I am confident the hospital redevelopment will go ahead sooner, rather than later, provided the goal posts aren't changed again. The National's candidate must reveal all of his taskforce's recommendations, and let the public know whether their plans differ from the objectives detailed in the Tamworth Hospital Service Procurement and Project Definition plans. He also must reveal whether his team's health policies could jeopardise progress on the redevelopment to date, and into the future," Mr Draper concluded.
