Media Releases July 2005
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Registrations open for Koori Netball comp
28 July 2005
The seventh annual Koori Women’s Netball Tournament will take place on October 21 and 22 at the Charlestown Netball Complex in Newcastle.
The tournament, which is organised by the NSW Department of Sport and Recreation, attracts players from a variety of areas across the state including Tamworth, Armidale, the Hunter, Dubbo, Macleay Valley, Sydney, Kempsey, and the Central Coast. Approximately 220 players have participated in this tournament in previous years.
To enable as many Aboriginal women as possible to participate, the competition is open to both junior players, aged 14 years and under, as well as seniors, aged 15 years and over.
“This event has showcased the skills of Aboriginal netballers over many years, and it provides an excellent opportunity for Aboriginal women to participate in a competitive and social event with other Indigenous women,” Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
“I would encourage any Aboriginal girls and women from our local area with an interest in netball to consider taking part,” he said.
For players, coaches,trainers or managers interested in Sports medicine, the first day of the tournament will see courses conducted in sports taping.
For further information and to obtain registration forms, please contact the NSW Department of Sport and Recreation’s Newcastle office on (02) 4926 1633 or go online at the Department’s website at www.dsr.nsw.gov.au.
Farewell Premier Carr
27 July 2005
Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has applauded the announcement today that NSW Premier Bob Carr has decided to stand down from the leadership of the Labor Government and resign as Member for Maroubra.
Mr Draper recognised Mr Carr’s long period of service to the people of NSW, having broken Neville Wran’s record as the longest continuously serving Labor Premier earlier this year.
“I acknowledge the efforts of the Premier in reducing State debt by some $12 billion during his term in office,” Mr Draper said. “Also the management of the Olympics from construction to implementation was a great credit to NSW under his stewardship.
“Locally I credit Bob Carr with fast-tracking the application to establish an abattoir in Tamworth and assisting with speeding up EPA approval for the project. Additionally, by untying the NSW Government's financial commitment to the Equine Centre from the Federal Government, I believe the Premier’s backing helped pressure the Feds to contribute to the project.”
Mr Draper however was critical of what he called the Premier's “obsession” with National Parks, and in particular he criticised the recent decision to lock up vast tracts of the Brigalow. He stated that the Brigalow decision highlighted the Carr Government's poor understanding of the importance of country communities.
“Unfortunately Bob Carr will be remembered in many country areas as the Premier who sold out rural and regional NSW to gain inner city Green preferences.
“With his legacy of vendor stamp duty, increased poker machine taxes, unworkable OH&S legislation, difficult to understand native vegetation legislation, the Brigalow decision, plus other anti-country decisions, I doubt that there will be too many people locally who would be asking him to reconsider his decision to retire,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper wished the Premier well for the future and expressed his intention to quickly acquaint Mr Carr’s successor with the issues and opportunities facing the electorate of Tamworth.
“I look forward to making sure the new Premier is quickly brought up to speed on issues of importance for this electorate, and to continuing the lobbying process on behalf of our local communities,” Mr Draper concluded.
Coal meeting dates need to be clarified
27 July 2005
Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has been contacted by a number of people seeking clarification regarding a public meeting at Caroona hall to discuss the proposed development of a coal mine in the district.
Mr Draper sought clarification from Mineral Resources Minister Kerry Hickey and has confirmed that the meeting is scheduled to commence at the Caroona community hall from 4pm on Tuesday August 2. Senior officers from the Department of Primary Industries – Mineral Resources will attend the meeting. Briefings have also been arranged for both Liverpool Plains and Gunnedah Shire Councils.
“There has been a great deal of confusion regarding the Caroona meeting coming from the community,” Mr Draper said.
“A number of differing dates and times have been circulated through various media outlets and the community was unsure as to the timing or purpose of the meeting.”
“The Minister advised that it will be a public information session regarding the proposal and it will be open to all interested parties,” he said.
Mr Draper has received correspondence from a number of community representatives expressing concerns over the proposal, with the impact on water resources, retention of viable farming land, and the effects on local landholders of a mines operation foremost among the concerns.
“The Minister has advised that a formal Community Consultative Committee will be formed early in 2006 that will include 3 to 4 community representatives, but I would urge anybody with an interest in this proposal to attend the meeting at Caroona on August 2nd,” Mr Draper concluded.
For further details contact Peter Draper on 0417 290376, or his office on 67661422.
Funding of $41,000 for Gunnedah Motorcycle Club
22 July 2005
The Gunnedah Motor Cycle Club will build quality new facilities for its raceway through a $41,000 State Government grant, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, announced today.
Mr Draper said the funding was provided through the Regional Sports Facilities Program and would be matched by the club to build a new amenities block complete with showers and change rooms at the club’s Balcary Park Raceway on the outskirts of Gunnedah.
“These facilities will be greatly appreciated by both club members and competitors who travel from across NSW and interstate to compete. It will also enable the club to further expand and apply for State and National Senior and Junior titles with the knowledge they have the ability to cope with a large number of visitors,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper met recently with Gunnedah Motor Cycle Club secretary Guy Carlyon and Club public officer Stewart Michel to discuss their future plans for the raceway.
Mr Michel said the club had successfully secured donations of materials and labour to fulfil the requirements of the dollar-for-dollar funding and work would get underway as soon as practicable.
Mr Carlyon said support for the 50-year-old club was strong with over 60 active competitors this year among a club membership of 100. He said the club was buoyed by the membership of enthusiastic junior riders with over 90 per cent of competitors and members between the ages of 5 and 17 years.
He said it had been a positive year for the club with 11 new steel pit shelters constructed at Balcary Park through the combined efforts of community groups and Gunnedah TAFE mechanical engineering students. Power has also been supplied to the track through donations from Country Energy and contributions of voluntary labour from the community.
Mr Draper said the Regional Sport Facilities Program delivered infrastructure projects in partnership with local government and the community. Work is scheduled to start on the project in August with completion anticipated for February next year.
Photo, from left: Gunnedah Motorcycle Club public officer Stewart Michel, Club secretary Guy Carlyon and Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper celebrate the success of a $41,000 funding application to the State Government to build a new amenities block at Balcary Park Raceway.
New partnership to deliver benefits to community
22 July 2005
A new phase in a sponsorship partnership between the New England North West Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service and human resource specialist, the TESA Group, stands to benefit the wider community, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said.
Mr Draper made the comment on Thursday as he officially opened a new office in the Tamworth Arcade in Peel St where the TESA Group is co-habiting with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. A logo sponsor of the Service, the TESA Group is providing the office to the organisation free of charge as part of its ongoing sponsorship arrangement.
“I was delighted to be given the opportunity to unveil the plaque and pay tribute to the Service as the Angel III and everyone associated play such a critical role in emergency medical response services in our community. I am also thrilled to see the TESA Group expand into Tamworth having recently acquired United Personnel Services which operated in Gunnedah for eight years.
“It’s encouraging to see a nationally recognised agency such as TESA invest further in the region and lend valued and generous support through sponsorship of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
Mr Draper said the TESA Group was one of the nation’s most reputable suppliers of skilled labour to the manufacturing, construction, utility and mining sectors and could look forward with optimism to its presence in the north west given the development of the industries in the region.
He said in its five years in Tamworth, Westpac’s Angel III helicopter had conducted more than 730 missions making a marked difference to the health outcomes of hundreds of patients.
“I believe the Service can continue to look forward with pride to a future in the region not only due to strengthened support from the private sector but due to the dedication of volunteers, and the determination of the community to keep it in the air,” he said.
Photo, from left: TESA NSW State Manager Glen Redman, TESA Business Development Officer Varlie Flaherty, Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper and TESA Chief Operating Officer Kevin Masterson.
Occupational health and safety review identifies uncertainty over risk management
21 July 2005
Managing risks to health and safety in the workplace and how to avoid prosecution in the process were among key issues identified by employers and business people at a public forum in Tamworth, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
“The forum to examine the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 was run by NSW WorkCover Director of the Occupational Health and Safety Legislative Review, Peter Dunphy, and attracted more than 40 people,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the message from employers was the OH&S Act needed to provide more certainty in terms of how they and controllers of work places could demonstrably manage risks to the health and safety of employees in the work environment
“One of the main principles of the Act is the need for employers to ‘ensure’ the health and safety of employees which is so general it creates uncertainty in terms of what level of risk control is required if they can’t be eliminated,” Mr Draper said.
“Employers are still grappling with the risk management process and how far they need to go to meet WorkCover’s expectations without leaving themselves open to prosecution.
“The review is seeking answers to as to whether, after five years, the general principles of the OH&S Act are still relevant and valid in terms of what WorkCover is trying to achieve, that is to reduce the incidence of injury and death at the workplace,” he said.
“Since its introduction, the Act has resulted in a significant reduction of workplace accidents and the Government should take some credit for that, however, employers also take the welfare of their workers seriously and they need to know where they stand in relation to the law.
Mr Draper said employers still had the opportunity to make submissions to the review (until August 19) after which a set of draft amendments would be released for comment. The new Act should be introduced early next year.
Support, training needed for carers and consumers of mental health services
21 July 2005
Mental health advocates, carers, patients and service providers presented a strong case for more support, better communication and recognition from the NSW Health Department during a think tank on mental health laws in Tamworth today, according to the Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper.
Mr Draper attended the forum conducted by a NSW Health panel headed up by Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Health, Cherie Barton MP, who is travelling the state gathering community feedback into a review of the NSW Mental Health Act 2000.
Held at the Banksia Mental Health Unit at Tamworth Base Hospital, the forum was linked by video to Gunnedah where community members and representatives from the Gunnedah Branch of the Grey Power Association were able to vocalise concerns.
“The key issues tabled included the need for more support, training and recognition of carers, families and support groups like Grey Power and the need for better communication between mental health service providers and carers in regard to the treatment process of people with mental illness,” Mr Draper said.
“The forum heard that families and carers are being left in the dark in relation to the treatment process and have no idea when their relative or client is discharged from the health service. Families and carers need to know when this occurs so they can be there to provide care and support. I was pleased to see this fact acknowledged by the panel.
Mr Draper said the Gunnedah Branch of Grey Power had recently established a support group for people with mental illness and the need for training and support of its members from the health service was a concern raised during the link up
“Carers, families and support groups need appropriate training to deliver ‘mental first aid’ to people when they show early symptoms of mental illness. This will not only help with diagnosis and treatment and but should circumvent the need for acute care due to early intervention.
Mr Draper said continuity of care was also a big issue for patients and needed to be addressed through the recruitment, retention and training of psychiatrists and staff.
“The shortage of psychiatrists is a major inhibitor to the continuity of care for patients. It’s hard to establish trusting doctor/patient relationships when psychiatrists are being flown in on a locum basis.
“Hunter New England Area Health Service has recently recruited two psychiatrists who will be based in Tamworth, however, the issue needs to be addressed at a training level for long term solutions to be found.
Mr Draper said the panel benefited greatly from the perspective of a person who had previously experienced mental illness.
“The panel heard that the rights of patients need to be considered in the distribution of information about their treatment and also in regard to the role they play in the community as mental health advocates.
Mr Draper said the feedback from both Tamworth and Gunnedah had proved invaluable to the panel and he encouraged anyone who was not able to attend to make a submission into the review of the Act.
“Once the consultation phase on the discussion papers is complete, the Department will release a draft of amendments to the Act. People will again have draft the opportunity to comment on the proposals and the amendments should be introduced toward the end of the year,” he said.
Photo: Hunter New England Area Health Service deputy manager mental health nursing services Judy Stephens, NSW parliamentary secretary to the NSW Minister for Health Cherie Burton MP, Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper MP and HNEAHS mental health services regional manager Barry Hunter met during the mental health forum at the Banksia Mental Health Unit.
Community urged to have a say as mental health forum opens in Tamworth
20 July 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, is encouraging community members and groups to attend a public forum being held in Tamworth tomorrow to discuss NSW’s mental health laws.
The NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Cherie Burton MP, will conduct the Mental Health Forum at the Banksia Mental Health Unit as part of a review of the Mental Health Act 1990.
“The Minister for Health, Morris Iemma, has approved a review of the Act which remains virtually unchanged since its introduction in 1990. The review has been progressed with the release of two discussion papers concentrating on carer issues and the Mental Health Act itself,” Mr Draper said.
“The community is now being asked to comment on the discussion papers and I would urge anyone who is interested in the rights of people with mental illness or who has an interest in mental health to attend the forum and learn more about what is proposed.
“It’s important to remember that no decisions have been made and consumers, carers and health service providers have been given this opportunity to have their concerns taken into account.
“Once the consultation process is complete legislative amendments will be considered and a draft bill will be released for further public comment,” he said.
Mr Draper said he has received many representations from people who hold concerns with various aspects of the discussion papers including the administering of medication to patients, the role of the legal system in the mental health system, the inclusion of safeguards to protect patient rights and treatment methods.
The forum will begin at 9.30am and will also be video linked to the Gunnedah Community Health Centre where interested community members can participate.
MP welcomes Jock Laurie to presidency of NSW Farmers’ Association
20 July 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has extended his congratulations to the incoming president of the NSW Farmers’ Association, Jock Laurie, upon news of his appointment to the position.
“I believe Jock will bring to the role an objective and thorough understanding of farming issues particularly in the New England north-west communities due to his background as a sheep and cattle producer from Walcha and with property at Attunga, Mr Draper said.
“I look forward to working with Jock and the Association across a raft of challenges facing farmers and producers today particularly water reform, native vegetation management, genetically modified cropping and the move toward alternative energy sources.
“It’s important that opportunities in terms of services and resources continue to be created for rural communities and I believe the NSW Farmers’ Association under the stewardship of Jock Laurie will work hard in this regard,” he said.
Mr Draper said Mr Laurie’s knowledge of occupational, health and safety issues due to his role as chair of the Association’s Occupational Health and Safety Taskforce would be of particular benefit due to the difficulty farmers and producers experience in complying with the laws.
Mr Draper paid credit to the achievements of outgoing president Mal Peters who had worked effectively with all levels of government and guided the Association and its members through many significant challenges including the negotiation and establishment of the National Water Initiative.
OH&S forum for Tamworth better late than never
19 July 2005
A public information session to discuss a review of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 has been set down for Tamworth on Thursday 21 July 2005.
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper said he was disappointed the Tamworth electorate had been given such late notice of the forum but was pleased the local business community had been given the chance to speak directly to WorkCover about the contentious Act.
“I am pleased the Minister for Commerce, John Della Bosca, responded positively to my request for Tamworth to be included in the loop of WorkCover’s public information sessions as this is one of the biggest issues affecting business today,” Mr Draper said.
“I have written to thousands of business owners across the electorate encouraging them to have a say on the Act by making a submission and I am pleased they will now also be able to attend a public forum and discuss practical improvements to the laws.
Mr Draper said the review would scrutinise the objectives and application of the OH&S Act 2000 and presented an ideal opportunity for the business community to state whether the laws were realistic and workable.
“The feedback I have received is that the laws make running a business extremely difficult as the guidelines are too general and employers live in fear of prosecution despite making every effort to provide a safe and healthy work environment for their employees.
“Gunnedah and Tamworth led the way in NSW in voicing concern over the controversial Workplace Fatalities laws and I hope the electorate once gain has a strong influence in shaping occupational health and safety laws in NSW,” he said.
The details of the public information session are as follows:
Where: The Alandale Motor Inn and Function Centre on the corner of New England Highway and Burgmanns Lane.
When: 8.30am to 10am (Registration from 8am) Thursday 21 July 2005
There is no charge, however, bookings are required by phoning: 13 10 50.
Details needed first for young farmers scheme
19 July 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has called on the NSW Minister for Infrastructure Planning and Natural Resources, Craig Knowles, to release more comprehensive details of a recently announced finance scheme for young farmers.
The FirstFarmer scheme was announced by the Minister last week having been developed by the NSW Farmers Association and endorsed by a commitment of $3million from the NSW Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources.
“The announcement has been made but details of how to apply and the criteria are still forthcoming and not expected to be released for some time,” Mr Draper said.
“In general terms the scheme is designed to help young farmers buy their first farm through low interest loans, interest rate subsidies and insurance concessions. I applaud the fact the Government is attempting to address the exodus of young farmers in rural NSW, however, the lack of detail available about the program is a concern.
“I would like to know how soon the assistance will be available, what the guidelines are for applicants, who is eligible, what criteria needs to be met by applicants in terms of natural resource management and how the funding will be distributed.
Mr Draper also had concerns about the scope of the scheme given the price of farming land.
“It’s encouraging to see support for such a scheme but with the agricultural market inflated, I question how far the scheme’s $1million per year over three years will stretch. How many young farmers will the Department realistically assist through this program?
Mr Draper said government lending schemes led generally to positive outcomes but could become problematic if funds ran out leaving surplus applicants frustrated and disappointed as their dreams of property ownership slipped away.
“The scheme sounds noble in theory but it needs to be backed by comprehensive details of its scope so people can assess whether they are potential applicants and are not given false hope over their eligibility. I think the Minister needs to clarify when the scheme will be actually up and running and reserve the fanfare for that occasion,” he said.
Pocket-size cards hold drug and alcohol information for teenagers
18 July 2005
Teenagers and the risks associated with drugs like alcohol, cannabis and ecstasy are the focus of a new information resource now available from various agencies in the Tamworth electorate, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
Mr Draper said the NSW Government has produced Drug Smart, a fold out information card, which aims to educate young people between 12 and 17 years of age about illicit drugs and alcohol while dispelling myths about some of the drugs they may encounter.
“The Drug Smart cards contain personal accounts from teenagers, they are easy to read and convey the information in a straight forward manner which should help young people sort the facts from fiction,” Mr Draper said.
“And if people want to talk about it, the cards also contain important contact details of services that can give further information or help.
Mr Draper said to encourage young people to pick up the cards, Civic Video had included three “rent one new release, get one free” coupons which were valid until December 2005 and printed within the card’s fold out material.
“The coupons should catch teens’ attention but I think once they start reading the information on the card and the experiences of other youth in relation to drugs and alcohol, they will find the content easy to relate to and very thought provoking,” he said.
The cards are available from Mr Draper’s electorate office in Fitzroy St, from local government and non-government services, PCYC’s, libraries, schools and drug community action teams across NSW.
Awards open for those who keep marketplace fair for consumers
18 July 2005
Advocates of fair market practices in the business community are being encouraged to nominate for the 2005 Fair Trading Awards, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper said today.
“Presented by the NSW Office of Fair Trading, the 2005 Fair Trading Awards present an opportunity for people across a range of industries to be recognised for working to ensure consumers and disadvantaged people are protected from unscrupulous business practices,” Mr Draper said.
“The Awards also recognise those who have gone the extra mile to educate people in an unbiased way about their rights and responsibilities in relation to buying products and services.
“If you have helped people make better choices about how they spend their hard earned dollar or encouraged ethical business practices then you should consider nominating. The awards include regional categories and I hope to see a good representation of nominees come forward from the Tamworth electorate.
Mr Draper said under the program, community organisations, outstanding individuals business and industry associations, and the media were invited to nominate for a variety of categories including consumer advocacy, service provision and media awards.
Details and entry forms are available from Mr Draper’s office and entries close on 26 August 2005. Award recipients will be announced during Consumer Week in November.
Werris Creek’s railway museum on track for October opening
15 July 2005
The development of a Rail Journeys Museum as part of Werris Creek’s Australian Railway Monument received a significant kick along this week with funding allocated by Liverpool Plains Shire Council and the NSW Government.
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said the combined commitment of $305,000 was a timely boost as it meant the museum could also be complete for the official opening of the Australian Railway Monument later this year.
“This week the Liverpool Plains Shire Council committed to contributing $205,000 for the museum’s development while Railcorp made a final determination to spend around $100,000 on refurbishing the Werris Creek Railway Station’s Refreshment Rooms where the collection of rail memorabilia will be housed.
“The Council and ARM Management (the group of local rail enthusiasts who manage the attraction) are aiming to have the monument and landscaping completed by October 1 to coincide with celebrations of the 150th anniversary of rail in Australia.
“This commitment will make the event even more exciting as the museum should also be ready for display on the day.
“The Rail Journeys Museum is a major component of the Australian Railway Monument showcasing a vast collection of historic rail artefacts, objects and information. Council’s funding will pay for a scoping study by Australian Museum Design Services as well an assessment of the artefacts and fit out of the display.
“The funding allocated by RailCorp will upgrade the former Refreshments Rooms bringing the interior up to the standard needed to display such an important historical collection.
Mr Draper said the NSW Government had already contributed $1.75 million to the establishment of the Australian Railway Monument in Werris Creek.
GM crop contamination was only a matter of time
15 July 2005
The contamination of Victorian canola seeds with genetically modified material should send a clear message to the NSW Government to maintain extreme caution in the trailing of GM food crops in NSW, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
“While I support GM technology in textile and fibre crops, I have voiced strong opposition to its use in the production of food crops such as canola and soya beans in the absence of conclusive proof they are safe to consume.
“I also believe its potential to compromise export markets makes experimenting with research trials a risk simply not worth taking,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the contamination was detected among Victorian grown canola seeds destined for Japan but the shipment was blocked after testing positive to traces of GM material by the Australian Barley Board.
He said commercial plantings of GM canola crops were banned or are under moratoria in New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania and Western Australia but trials approved by a regulator were grown in Victoria and have been approved in NSW.
“Last year the NSW Department of Primary Industries sought to grow two GM canola trials of 95 hectares in NSW but these have been delayed due to the drought and poor planting conditions.
“I maintain my opposition to the introduction of trials of GM canola in NSW due to the danger of cross contamination with traditional crops. I feel it is impossible to guarantee neighbouring crops will not be affected and damage to the industry’s clean green image would be irreversible.
Mr Draper said the former Parry Shire Council took an early stand against the technology promoting the area as being GM-free due to the fact that export markets demanded a GM - free product.
“I accept the technology can be of great benefit in textile crops such as cotton where genetic modification of the plant makes it resistant to pests thereby reducing dependence on chemicals.
“Genetic modification of food crops, however, is taking the technology one step too far as human consumption of products grown from GM crops has not been scientifically proven as safe.
“As the Victorian case illustrates, GM contamination can jeopardise export grain markets and until science proves otherwise, I think consumers and grain producers will be put at risk. Until all outcomes have been explored, tight restrictions on the trailing of GM crops should remain in place,” he said.
Police resources raised with Commissioner
14 July 2005
Policing issues critical to Oxley Local Area Command and particularly to Gunnedah were the focus of discussions today between the NSW Police Commissioner, Ken Moroney, and the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper.
“The Commissioner responded with an undertaking that the matters raised will be among priorities to be discussed with the NSW Police Minister, Carl Scully, upon his return to Sydney which was greatly encouraging,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper met with the Commissioner and Oxley Local Area Commander Superintendent Tony Jefferson as part of the Commissioner’s fact-finding tour of the region.
Among the issues tabled were the shortfall in frontline police due to long-term sick leave, the need for more resources in Gunnedah and ongoing projections of policing requirements in the Oxley LAC.
“Among my major concerns for Gunnedah in terms of policing is the need to appoint an Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer (ACLO) to improve relations, response and communication between police and the Aboriginal community, which is steadily growing in size,” Mr Draper said.
Superintendent Jefferson pointed out there were 9000 Aborigjnal people living in Tamworth and Gunnedah, with police liaison being provided by one Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer based in Tamworth.
Mr Draper said there was a strong case for an additional ACLO to be based in Gunnedah given the area’s Indigenous population was growing steadily as a percentage of the total shire population and was among the highest in northern NSW (there has been a 20.5 per cent increase since 1996).
“The need for Gunnedah Police Station to be open 24 hours was highlighted to the Commissioner as it is becoming an increasingly important factor with planned industrial developments expected to boost the district’s local population and subsequently the demands on law enforcement resources.
“The Commissioner was highly receptive and gave an undertaking to raise the matters discussed with the Minister as soon as next week. I believe the Minister has gained a good understanding of policing issues in Gunnedah since visiting earlier this year and this will be helpful in developing a response to the issues raised.
Mr Draper was pleased to learn Oxley was set to receive a significant boost to its police strength with an influx of six Probationary Constables from the ranks of Goulburn Police Academy graduates who will arrive in August.
“Superintendent Jefferson also confirmed two additional police officers will be assigned to Gunnedah and one in Quirindi where resources have been particularly stretched due to injury and long term sick leave.
“The command still has 11 officers on the books as long term sick and I was heartened to hear Superintendent Jefferson confirm the situation should be remedied by October as replacements become available.
Photo: Oxley Local Area Command Inspector Darren Steel, Oxley LAC Commander Superintendent Tony Jefferson, Peter Draper MP and NSW Police Commissioner Ken Moroney met in Tamworth today to discuss policing priorities.
Apex Convention opened
Peter Draper MP was asked to open the 71st Convention of Apex Australia held in Tamworth on Thursday, 14 July, 2005.
The convention attracted 250 delegates to Tamworth from every state and territory to discuss the direction and priority projects for the Apex movement over the next 12 months.
Pictured from left are Tamworth Apex member Tony Housden, Peter Draper MP, National President Stuart Hughes and Tamworth Apex Secretary Natalie Wibberley.
Public schools benefit from holiday works
12 July 2005
Public schools in the Tamworth electorate are sharing in funding of $154,800 for maintenance and capital works being undertaken during the current school holidays, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper said the allocation included a $90,000 component to install air conditioning at Oxley High School as well as important safety measures in the form of enclosures for LPG gas tanks at a number of schools.
“The upgrades are scheduled to take place during the holidays but progress is subject to weather conditions and I am hopeful there have not been too many delays due to the rain we have experienced over the past week,” Mr Draper said.
The upgrades are part of $12.7million the NSW Government set aside in the 2005/2006 budget to spend on maintenance and capital works at the state’s public schools.
The list included:
- Bendemeer Public School: $8800 – LPG gas tank enclosure
- Dungowan Public School: $8,300 – “ “
- Kootingal Public School: $11,600 – “ “
- Moonbi Public School: $8,800 – “ “
- Nundle Public School: $13,800 – “ “
- Oxley High School: $90,000 – Air conditioning installation
- Tamworth Public School: $13,500 – Integration works
“I am particularly pleased to see Oxley High School receiving such a boost to its air conditioning system which will no doubt make a significant difference to student concentration levels during the summer months,” Mr Draper said.
Funds on offer to north west community groups after launch of program in Tamworth
8 July 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper is urging community and sporting groups in the Tamworth electorate to consider applying for a share of $135,000 worth of sponsorships and donations made available this week by the New England Credit Union (NECU) in Tamworth.
Mr Draper attended the launch of the NECU Community Support Program where opportunities to obtain funding for sport, art and cultural events, education and employment and community activities were announced.
“It’s heartening to see financial institutions such as the New England Credit Union willing to play a role in enhancing community events and activities in what becomes a win-win outcome for all involved.
“Corporate sponsorship of community groups is becoming increasingly important and in many cases is key to the success of many worthwhile events. I would hope this program inspires other financial institutions to follow suit.
“The program has helped almost 100 groups in the New England area this year and I’m pleased to see it being extended and promoted in the north-west region,” Mr Draper said.
At the launch, Mr Draper met with NECU chief executive officer Kevin Dupe who explained the program had been made possible through the merger of NECU with Peel Valley Credit Union in Tamworth.
Applications for the Community Support Program can be collected from any NECU branch of downloaded at www.necu.com.au. Applications must be lodged by 31 July 2005.
Photo, from left: Tamworth Basketball Association Coaching Director Nick Prior, New England Credit Union CEO Kevin Dupe and Peter Draper MP consider the possibilities presented by the NECU Community Support Program as it was launched in Tamworth.
Road to Australian Country Music Hall of Fame paved by combined effort
8 July 2005
Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has thrown his support behind the Australian Country Music Foundation’s (ACMF) bid to create an Australian Country Music Hall of Fame in Tamworth.
Mr Draper is planning to meet with ACMF executives in coming weeks to discuss the finer details of the $12million project’s business plan and funding opportunities that may exist with the NSW Government.
“The seeds of this ambitious project were unveiled in Tamworth today and with the completion target date set for January 2010, the proponents have given themselves a realistic lead in time for fundraising,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said while the project was in its infant stage with a site to be selected and a Development Application yet to go before Tamworth Regional Council, it was imperative considerations for funding began as soon as practicable.
“The ACMF has already announced a number of fundraising activities including a series of Salute Dinners however it will be important from the outset that the industry, the community and all tiers of Government pull together to share the burden of cost which is significant.
The $12million museum will be built on a green field site and feature exhibitions, collection storage and workspace, reference and study libraries, a mastering studio, a coffee shop and bistro, small performance theatre and meeting rooms.
Seed funding for the business plan was sourced from Museums and Galleries NSW while Foundation members, consultant Vicki Brooke (Purple Patch Consulting) and Mark O’Connor from Warburtons accountants have been busily working toward the launch of the business plan since January this year.
“The museum will become the nation’s archive and resource centre for the collection, preservation, display and research of Australia’s country music heritage and where better to showcase an country music tribute of this calibre than in Tamworth,” Mr Draper said.
“I think the fact that it will have broader appeal beyond country music fans is also important.
Mr Draper said the Hall of Fame would greatly enhance the fabric of the city’s current attractions and provide a year round country music presence which visitors and tourists had come to expect given Tamworth’s international profile as the country music capital.
“I am willing to give this project my full support and look forward to working with the team to help deliver this important new country music attraction to the region,” he said.
MusicOz graduates seize the day
8 July 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, extended his congratulations to a group of young people who successfully graduated this week from a Work for the Dole program that saw them gain experience in the music industry.
Mr Draper attended the MusicOz Tamworth graduation ceremony in Tamworth where participants received certificates for completing the exciting new program which provided invaluable exposure to behind-the-scenes operations of the music industry.
MusicOz Tamworth has a mission to support and develop the original music scene in north-west NSW while servicing unemployed people who may be interested in developing careers in the creative industries.
H&H Accredited Training Australasia Inc was the Community Work Co-ordinator for the program and with 23 people taking part many graduated wanting to seek further training and work in the industry.
“Work for the Dole is generally associated with labour intensive tasks and activities such as landscaping and construction and it was refreshing to see an opportunity to gain experience in such a creative industry being provided,” Mr Draper said.
“The participants have gained key skills in event planning and management, production and administration all of which related to music events in the region.
“Beginning with the 2005 Telstra Country Music Festival Tamworth the participants were thrown in the deep end and it’s encouraging to see them emerge with such confidence in their ability and delight in having obtained new skills.
Mr Draper said key to the program’s success was the involvement, commitment and sponsorship from MusicOz supervisor Jim Gyder, Vee Promotions, the team at H&H Accredited Training, Cheapa Music and the Commonwealth Bank.
Photo: Attending the Musicoz graduation in Tamworth on Thursday 7 July were, from left, Nathan Morris, H&H Accredited Training Australasia Inc Business Services Manager Paul Briscoe, Peter Draper MP, Anthony Silver, Clayton Hely and Terry Barker.
Free legal advice on child support on offer in Tamworth and Gunnedah
6 July 2005
People seeking advice on child support and family law matters are being encouraged to take advantage of a free legal service now on offer in Tamworth and Gunnedah through the Legal Aid Commission of NSW, the Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper said an agreement reached between the State and Federal Governments had enabled the Legal Aid Commission to provide a regular Child Support Outreach Service in the north-west and New England regions.
“The service is provided in the form of a specialist child support solicitor who travels from the Commission’s Burwood Legal Aid office to centres such as Tamworth, Gunnedah, Glen Innes, Inverell and Armidale to provide specialised legal advice on child support matters,” Mr Draper said.
“The Legal Aid Commission which is funded by the NSW Attorney General’s Department has had an office in Tamworth for a number of years and offers advice on general family law matters but is not specialised in child support matters.
“This outreach service has been made possible through Federal Government funding and means specialised legal advice on child support matters is now available to people in the region on a face-to-face basis which is particularly important for those caught up in what can be complicated and emotional legal processes,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the Child Support Outreach Service began in Tamworth on a once-a-month basis in February and was extended to Gunnedah in June where it is offered on a bi-monthly basis.
“The service is in its infancy in terms of having a presence in outlying centres but has already had a good response with clients seeking it out for advice in both Tamworth and Gunnedah.
“In addition to specialised child support matters, the solicitor can also offer advice on general family law matters when in Gunnedah due to the absence of a Legal Aid service in the town,” he said.
Mr Draper said it was encouraging to see the State and Federal Governments working together to provide a more comprehensive range of legal services in rural areas.
“Specialist child support solicitor Michael Gross will travel to Tamworth on Tuesday, 12 July, and will be next available in Gunnedah in August,” Mr Draper said.
“Mr Gross provides free and confidential advice and is available to speak to those individuals who provide child support payments and those responsible for the primary carer role.
“In some circumstances court support may also be available to individuals,” he said.
Appointments for legal advice are essential and can be made by calling the Legal Aid Commission’s Child Support Service toll free on 1 800 451 784.
‘People in Poverty’ speak out against rent hikes
4 July 2005
Mr Draper met with representatives from People in Poverty (PIP) in Tamworth today to discuss the impact of increased rent for public housing tenants.
Mr Draper said the group have approached him on behalf of public housing tenants with concerns about the NSW Department of Housing’s recent market rent review and he has relayed their message to the NSW Minister for Housing, Joe Tripodi.
The PIP group has also raised concerns about a possible increase in weekly water charges imposed by the Department.
“People in Poverty are a group of people who are lobbying the Federal Government for an increase in the pension and they have approached me in regard to the challenge of meeting public housing rent and water costs.
“I support the group in its efforts to lobby for a pension increase as many are experiencing difficulty just meeting the basic costs of living. Unless they adhere to an extremely tight budget, they have very little, if any, money left over for food, clothing and personal items. For many, medical and dental costs alone can be crippling.
“The PIP is a group of concerned pensioners who aren’t asking for charity, they just want a fair go,” he said.
Mr Draper said the group had raised concerns about rental increases for Department of Housing properties as the Department recently reviewed the market rent for all its properties and determined that some of the rents would change.
“The Department has advised that letters have been written to all public housing tenants explaining that the market rental fee may increase, however, it will only affect people who do not receive a rental subsidy. People such as pensioners (whose rent is 25 per cent of their pension payment) and those who receive subsidized rent will not be affected.
“I understand the increase is not to exceed $60 per week while the average increase in the Tamworth area is around $20 per week. The new market rent will apply from 18 July 2005 for people housed before 16 May 2005. For new tenants (after 16 May 2005) the higher rent will apply immediately.
Mr Draper said the first increase in market rent since 2001 appeared to aim at encouraging wage-earning public housing tenants to move on to private rental properties.
”This would make way for subsidized tenants or those who are more disadvantaged but could still place pressure on families who are struggling to make ends meet,” he said.
Photo: Peter Draper MP met People in Poverty group members Diane Struck (left) and Ann Gaites in Tamworth today to discuss concerns the group has over rental increases and the need for an increase in the pension.
