This month's Media Releases
For previous releases, click here
Action sought from Minister on IPART proposal for Chaffey water
Friday, July 28, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has joined with Tamworth Regional Council and local water users in calling for action from the State Government in delivering equitable cost structures for Chaffey Dam’s regulated water.
Mr Draper hosted a meeting today between council representatives, Namoi Water, Peel Valley water users and members of the Chaffey Dam community reference panel to discuss a course of action that would address water price increases recommended by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).
“The catalyst for this meeting today was the obvious bias against irrigators in the Peel Valley compared to those in the Namoi under IPART’s recommendations on water pricing to the State Government,” Mr Draper said.
“The Tribunal is recommending an increase for Peel Valley water users from $17.22 per megalitre general security (GS) and $25.04 high security (HS), to $29.80 GS and $39.28 HS by 2010. This compares very unfavourably with its recommendations for neighbouring Lake Keepit users to see increases from $15.45 GS and $19.17 HS per megalitre to $18.07 GS and $21 HS.
“Such large variances between closely neighbouring water storages, demonstrates the need for an urgent review. If adopted, the current recommendations will completely destroy the irrigation industry in the Peel Valley. I am seeking an urgent meeting where stakeholders can take their concerns direct to the Minister for State Water David Campbell,” he said.
Mr Draper said it was inappropriate for the State Government to assume a policy of cost recovery for Chaffey Dam, as it was originally constructed in the 1960’s to address the issue of flood mitigation and also the prospect of significant population growth in the local area.
“The current storage capacity of Chaffey Dam cannot justify such extreme cost increases, and even should it be upgraded from 64 to 100 gigalitres capacity its primary purpose will be to provide for the future needs Tamworth businesses and residents, while allowing for the continuation of a viable irrigation industry surrounding the city,” he said.
“Should IPART’s recommendations be adopted it will reduce Peel Valley irrigators from viable businesses to hobby farmers, as they will be unable to compete with other water users across the state. The Minister must consider the financial impacts that losing the Peel irrigation industry would have on the region before adopting any pricing policies,” he concluded.
Tamworth students secure Minister’s scholarship
Friday, July 28, 2006
The Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has today congratulated James McLeish from Oxley High School and Katie Frew from McCarthy Catholic College for being two of just 25 recipients across the state who received the Minister’s scholarships for TAFE NSW.
“These young people are not only the best in the state at what they do, but in fact the best in Australia, having received this recognition by winning the gold medal at the recent Worldskills Australia National Competition,” Mr Draper said.
“By easily topping the medal tally over every other state, TAFE NSW has demonstrated this state’s leadership in the provision of vocational education, and the scholarships will allow James and Katie to get the best possible head-start by studying any course of their choice at TAFE NSW.
“The Minister’s Scholarships guarantees a place in any course they qualify for up to Advanced Diploma level, and their TAFE fees will be paid for the duration of the course.
“Winners who are already TAFE NSW students will be able to further their studies, gain high-level Diploma qualifications and advance their careers.
“Gold medallists who are high school students doing vocational education and training (VET) courses as part of their HSC, will get a good start to their careers by moving into nationally recognised qualifications at TAFE NSW when they finish school.
“Katie and James demonstrated their outstanding qualities by competing against more than 500 of Australia’s best at the high-profile national competition.
“NSW students secured 59 medals in total, 25 being gold, but the encouraging aspect is that most of the medals were in important skill shortage industries including carpentry, electrical, information technology (IT), cookery, automotive and construction trades,” Mr Draper said.
“Some of our gold medal winners who received scholarships will have the opportunity to represent Australia and compete in Japan next year in the International WorldSkills Competition. This is a great accomplishment, and I wish them every success in their endeavours.
“I congratulate both our scholarship winners, as they are great examples of the world-class vocational training and skills enhancement available in the Tamworth area,” he concluded.
Small operators should be considered in forest plan – Draper
Friday, July 28, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has urged the State Government to address concerns raised by small rural sawmill operators regarding its draft Private Native Forestry Code of Practice.
Released for public comment this week, the draft code has been written to regulate private native forestry and to satisfy the conditions of the Native Vegetation Act 2003, which came into effect late last year.
“The draft has attracted criticism from many small sawmill operators and forestry groups, as they believe some of the proposed regulations will be too difficult to adhere to,” Mr Draper said.
“For instance, sawmills will apparently be required to construct and maintain roads used for logging and transport of the product, an extremely costly exercise that will prove too expensive for many smaller operators.
“They will also be required to prepare harvesting plans and forest management plans, while most small operators do not possess the appropriate technical skills to do so. It will also be very difficult for these operators to correctly identify ecologically endangered or vulnerable communities within proposed logging areas, as the code requires.
Mr Draper said while the draft code would have wider implications for the private forestry in the southern and northern coastal areas of NSW, operators in Walcha and Bendemeer would feel the pinch should it be adopted in its current format.
“More than 10 per cent of the product processed at the Walcha Boral Timbers comes from private native forests,” he said.
“If it proves too difficult for the mill to access this product that means 10 per cent will be sliced from their turnover, and no rural business can afford such a loss in the current economic climate.
“Bendemeer Sawmill has been operating in the village since the 1920s and relies entirely on privately sourced timber products for its operation. Any disruption to supply could force its closure and the loss of five critically important local jobs,” he said.
Mr Draper pointed out that this legislation might well have a similar impact on millers as the Government’s decision to lock up the Brigalow Belt, with some small players unwillingly forced out of the industry.
“Should small millers lose their livelihood through a Government decision aimed at appeasing green interests in marginal city electorates, then I believe that a similar compensation package to that developed for Brigalow millers should be made available.
“I urge the Government to consider the impost on these smaller operations and make the appropriate alterations to the code in its final composition,” he concluded.
The Department of Natural Resources will be holding a briefing session on the code at the Tamworth Community Centre from 6.30pm on Monday, July 31.
Community leaders urged to plant a tree
Friday, July 28, 2006
Civic leaders can set a positive example for the community by participating in National Tree Day, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper joined with his children Ben (Year 5) and Eliza (Year 2), along with other students from Nemingha Public School in planting native trees for the schools’ National Tree Day. Nemingha Public was among more than 2,500 schools participating in the annual event, which raises awareness about the importance of native trees to the environment, and the important role trees play in all communities.
“While it is important for children to participate in National Tree Day, civic and community leaders can set a positive example by being aware of environmental issues and participating in events such as this,” Mr Draper said.
“Native trees not only provide habitat for native birds and animals, they can prove extremely valuable for landholders in times of drought as they help retain sub-soil moisture.
“I was pleased to be invited to join with the children at Nemingha Public School for National Tree Day celebrations, and I urge other community leaders to mark this important event on their calendar for next year if they were unable to take part today.”
Tree Day 2005 helped to repair, revegetate and restore Australia's landscape, with people from all walks of life coming together to green up Australia.
More than 350,000 volunteers celebrated National Tree Day's tenth birthday last year by planting one and a half million native trees and shrubs at 4,000 sites around Australia, bringing the total number of trees planted since 1996 to over 9 million. Planet Ark is aiming for 10 million this year, and further plantings will be held across the state this Sunday.
“Landholders and residents can go beyond just planting a tree this Sunday, and ensure any plant or shrub planted on their property is native,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper plants a tree with Nemingha students (l-r) Henry Cutts, Abbey Bridge, Eliza Draper, Mitchell Bridge, James Elms, Ben Draper, Connor Burton and Dylan James.
Trustees to be protected under proposed workplace law review
Thursday, July 27, 2006
New amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 must be adopted to protect volunteer trustees of public lands from prosecution by WorkCover, according to the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper.
Following a number of concerns raised by volunteers in the local area, Mr Draper sought clarification from the offices of the Minister for Lands Tony Kelly and the Minister for Industrial Relations John Della Bosca as to volunteers possible exposure to prosecution.
“Local Trust members of public lands were concerned about compliance requirements under the OH&S Act 2000, as many believed they could be held liable under this Act should an accident occur,” Mr Draper said.
“Concern has also been expressed that the liability issue could extend to other Trust arrangements, such as showgrounds, public halls and racecourses.
“I am advised by both Ministers offices that the matter is currently being considered as part of a comprehensive review of the Act, and a draft amendment Bill has been proposed to quarantine volunteers on bodies corporate from prosecution.”
Mr Draper said the issue added to the long list of impacts from the Government’s OH&S Act, and added that he was hopeful the proposed amendments would be passed when Parliament resumes next month to alleviate the concerns of local trustees.
“The primary issue for WorkCover when considering the prosecution of any party under the Act is whether such a course of action is in the public interest,” he said.
“According to WorkCover, prosecuting a trustee is not considered to be in the public interest and they pointed out that no volunteer trustee has ever been prosecuted under workplace safety laws in NSW.
“Volunteer trustees provide a valuable service to community organizations in the local area and across the State, and I will be working to ensure their interests are fully protected by the Government in any amendment to the Act,” he concluded.
Reading program a winner in small schools
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Teachers at Mullaley and Tambar Springs Public Schools will take part in a Reading Recovery Program that will help them to identify reading difficulties in their students at the earliest stages the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
“Thirty-four rural and isolated schools are involved in the project, which is based on a successful pilot trial last year held in eight schools in Dubbo and Moree,” Mr Draper said.
“Teachers from participating schools across regional NSW are now receiving training from dedicated tutors aimed at diagnosing reading and writing problems in the early years at school.
“The project involves four workshops, which builds teachers’ skills and knowledge to help them diagnose individual reading problems through a series of assessment tasks.
“Teachers can then accurately identify those students who require extra help or support with reading and writing, and provide them with a program to address any concerns.
“The Reading Recovery program was introduced in 1996, and since then a team of 30 regionally-based tutors has trained more than 3000 Reading Recovery teachers,” Mr Draper said.
“The feedback from teachers involved in the program is how they all have a very high expectation regarding children’s literacy potential,” he said.
“Early results indicate children made gains in their literacy learning, plus there was also an increase in teachers’ knowledge and skills,” he concluded.
Draper welcomes regional energy blueprint
Friday, July 21, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has welcomed Country Energy’s regional energy blueprint launched during a visit to Tamworth by the Minister for Energy Joe Tripodi today.
Mr Draper said Tamworth was chosen for the launch of the $1.2 billion blueprint ‘Reliability, Sustainability, Innovation’ due to its status as the first town in the southern hemisphere to light its streets with electric lighting.
“Country Energy has proven itself to be a leader in energy provision in country NSW not only through its energy services, but also through its involvement with and support of rural and regional communities,” Mr Draper said.
“The company is proactive in securing quality services and staff in rural areas, and are willing to take on staff from many backgrounds. Just last year they took on a former motor mechanic aged in his mid 20s as an apprentice at Walcha and a former Telstra linesman at Armidale aged in his 40s.
“The regional blueprint is the latest step in providing for country NSW, and I congratulate Country Energy for continuing its commitment to the local area and regional NSW.”
Mr Draper said the blueprint detailed Country Energy’s plan to spend $1.2 billion across the network over the next four years, and included the redevelopment of two power sub stations at Goddard Lane and Oxley Vale, valued collectively at $7.2 million.
“Tamworth is growing rapidly, which is placing greater demands on local infrastructure,” Mr Draper said.
“These two new sub stations will ensure Tamworth continues to meet the growing demands on electricity provision well into the future,” he concluded.
Photo: The Minister for Energy Joe Tripodi, Tamworth Power Station Museum volunteer Ron Greer, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper and Country Energy regional manager Paul Brial discuss some of the museum's items on Friday.
New library for Werris Creek
Friday, July 21, 2006
Werris Creek will soon have a new community library following a $200,000 grant from the Ministry of the Arts, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Minister for the Arts Bob Debus confirmed the grant following an application by the Liverpool Plains Shire Council and representations to the Minister by Mr Draper.
“This is excellent news for residents in Werris Creek both young and old,” Mr Draper said.
“The current facility is located up a hill away from the town centre, which is difficult for many residents, however the new facility will be centrally located in the main street next to the town pharmacy, which will provide easy access for all the community.
“Recent figures show that the percentage of Australians using public libraries has increased from 38.4 per cent to 42 per cent, and it is important to provide such facilities to country towns so residents can reap the many benefits libraries provide.”
The new library will contain additional information technologies including Internet access, plus photocopying, laminating and binding facilities. It will also have a much larger reading and working space encouraging both work and leisure use.
The project is expected to cost approximately $450,000, with the Liverpool Plains Shire Council to provide the balance, and construction will begin as soon as possible.
“Libraries are often the cultural focal point of small communities, and I congratulate the Liverpool Plains Shire Council and the residents of Werris Creek who worked co-operatively to secure the construction of this state of the art learning facility,” Mr Draper concluded.
Policy encourages more support for breastfeeding
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Stakeholders in the New England Area will meet in Tamworth tomorrow to discuss a new health policy aiming to increase awareness and support for breastfeeding within the health system, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper said the policy – ‘Breastfeeding in NSW: Promotion, Protection and Support’, recognises the important role that health workers play in promoting and supporting breastfeeding.
“Breastmilk has many health benefits for newborns, it contains nutrients that enable physical growth and mental development, and helps protect infants against a number of diseases during childhood and later in life,” Mr Draper said.
“Breastfeeding can also help reduce the mother’s risk of breast cancer, so the benefits for both mothers and newborns are quite clear.”
Mr Draper said the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recommends exclusive breastfeeding of a newborn until approximately six months of age, followed by continued breastfeeding to 12 months of age or beyond, along with the appropriate complementary foods.
According to data collected in 2003 and 2004 in NSW, 87 per cent of infants had been introduced to breastfeeding at birth. This figure had however, dropped to 54 per cent by six months of age and by 12 months of age, only 29 per cent of infants were still being breastfed.
“This information indicates that a large number of mothers are not breastfeeding for as long as it is recommended to achieve the maximum health benefits for their child,” Mr Draper said.
“Nearly all women can breastfeed provided they receive support and accurate information from their health care provider, and I urge women in the electorate to consider the many positive health benefits breastfeeding can provide for young babies.”
The Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) - NSW Branch, which contributed to the development of the policy, will receive $150,000 in funding over the next three years to assist with the implementation process. Mr Draper said the ABA would provide community-based peer support to complement the Baby Friendly Initiative in hospitals and community health centers, and would also support health services to provide suitable ‘breastfeeding-friendly’ workplaces.
Mr Draper advised new mothers requiring breastfeeding information to phone the ABA‘s 24 hour breastfeeding helpline on 8853 4999 or visit their website www.breastfeeding.asn.au for advice or information about their local group. Tomorrow’s meeting would be held at the Tamworth Towers Motor Inn. For further information contact Christine Coombs Acting Director, Nursing & Midwifery Services, phone 6767 7230.
Disabled access upgrade for Oxley High
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Oxley High School will receive an upgrade to facilitate access to grounds and buildings for students with disabilities starting school next year, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
“An urgent need has been identified that will see some $15 million provided by the State Government to install lifts, handrails and ramps at 58 schools across the State, with Oxley being one of the recipients locally,” Mr Draper said.
“I am pleased to see this expenditure that will support people with a disability and provide facilities to help maximise their quality of life, independence, and participation in school activities. This project will make an immense difference to the school lives of many students attending Oxley High into the future.
“Moving from class to class at school can be very difficult for students with disabilities, so these upgrades and improvements will give them greater freedom of movement and activity within their school environment.”
Oxley High School will be the recipient of a new drop-off area, paths and new access to toilet facilities, additional ramps and modifications to the bubblers.
Mr Draper said Oxley High had been identified as a priority for an upgrade, as the number of children with disabilities attending the school was increasing.
“Students and staff with disabilities in public schools will benefit greatly in both teaching and learning through supply of these integration works,” he concluded.
September 1 deadline for National Competency Certificate
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Holders of old-style equipment and scaffolding licenses are being reminded by Member for Tamworth Peter Draper that Workcover requires all applicable tradespeople to convert to the new National Certificate of Competency before the September 1 deadline.
WorkCover has announced an extension to the grace period for applicants seeking conversion to the new national certificate, which will affect pre-1996 licenses to operate cranes, forklifts, front-end loaders, pressure equipment or to erect scaffolding.
“According to WorkCover, there has been an overwhelming response from applicants seeking conversion to the new certificate, and as a result it has been forced to extend the deadline for conversions,” Mr Draper said.
“There has been a great deal of confusion and uncertainty from license holders in the local area regarding the new requirements because of a lack of information regarding this requirement. I have personally made WorkCover and the Minister aware of many local concerns, and following similar problems in other parts of NSW the deadline has been extended to September 1.
Mr Draper said WorkCover has also extended the period that pre-1996 certificates will be recognised to allow tradespeople who have submitted a conversion application to continue using their old certificates while awaiting issue of their new national certificate, up until a deadline of August 31, 2007,” he said.
“The pre-1996 certificates to operate equipment and erect scaffolding will be converted to the new five-year certificate following completion of a conversion form and payment of a $30 processing fee, which seems to me to be an unjustified money grab by the State Government.
“I am appalled at the lack of recognition by Workcover for the years of experience that people affected by this decision have in the industry, however I urge holders of pre-1996 certificates to submit a conversion application before the new September 1 deadline, or they will face the very real prospect of losing their hard earned qualifications,” he said.
“I will continue to pressure the Government to reassess this unfair move, but those affected need to react quickly to retain their accreditation while negotiations continue,” he concluded.
For licence conversions contact 13 10 50, and for bulk conversions call 1800 335 976.
Working group to address issues of CBD crime
Monday, July 17, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper today welcomed moves to establish a local working group so resident and business concern regarding malicious damage, theft and anti-social behaviour in the Tamworth CBD can be addressed.
The initiative was raised at a meeting convened by the Tamworth and District Chamber of Commerce, and attended by Mr Draper, police and local councillors.
Describing the meeting as very positive, Mr Draper said employing extra security guards and installing closed circuit television (CCTV) surveillance were suggested as possible strategies for the working group to explore.
“The Tamworth business community is very concerned about a perceived increase in vandalism and anti-social behaviour in the Tamworth CBD, and also raised similar concerns about Bridge St,” Mr Draper said.
“Many businesses are calling for an increased and more visible police presence on the streets to deter such crime, but as Oxley LAC Crime Manager Insp Greg Birtles pointed out, escalating social problems including domestic violence are prioritised ahead of petty theft and vandalism, which often sees police resources diverted away from the CBD.
“Some in the business community have indicated they would consider contributing funds to an added private security presence or CCTV to protect their businesses. Once the newly established working group makes its decision on the most appropriate strategy I have confirmed my willingness to take such a solution to the State Government.”
Mr Draper pointed to the positive outcomes achieved in Orange, where a number of local licensees fund an added security presence on the streets of the CBD after early-hour closing times on weekends as part of their licensing agreement, but said that it would be unfair to target a few businesses to fund a program when the benefits would be experienced by all.
“According to figures provided by Orange Police, there has been a 50 per cent decrease in alcohol related assaults and malicious damage in the city since the initiative was implemented three years ago. I would encourage all business owners and residents to report every incident to police, no matter how minor, as having the true incident numbers when negotiating for additional officers may be the difference between securing 10 additional police, or a much greater number if we can prove the need,” Mr Draper concluded.
Mayor James Treloar will raise the establishment of the working group at the next meeting of Tamworth Regional Council on July 25.
Draper welcomes Commonwealth funding for Rural Medical School
Friday, July 14, 2006
A Commonwealth commitment to fund 80 places for a joint medical school at the Universities of New England and Newcastle is a very promising first step towards reversing the rural doctor shortage, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Yesterday, Prime Minister John Howard announced funding for 60 medical student places at UNE and 20 at the University of Newcastle. The announcement also included provision for an additional 20 nursing, 12 clinical psychology, and 20 mental health nursing places at UNE, with further funding at Newcastle University that would provide benefits for the local area in mental health.
A further $3 million in capital funding has been allocated to provide teaching facilities for the new medical school at UNE.
“I have been working diligently with fellow Independent MP Richard Torbay to see this initiative realised, and I welcome the Federal Government’s commitment as a first step towards reversing the shortage of doctors and health professionals in country areas,” Mr Draper said.
“For far too long residents in rural areas have suffered under a system that did little to address the ever widening gap between rural and metropolitan health care, and this initiative is a positive move towards closing that gap.
“The early results of a regional health survey I am conducting in the electorate shows that the shortage of doctors is by far the number one concern for rural residents, and I congratulate the Federal Government for recognising the many benefits this program will provide.
“The State Government had already committed to supporting the Rural Medical School, and the way is now open for the much-needed redevelopment of Tamworth Hospital, a project I have fought hard to achieve for people in the electorate.”
Mr Draper said he was hopeful the process of establishing the joint medical school would be swift and that the State and Federal Governments would focus solely on the benefits the project would bring.
“The last thing this project needs is to become bogged down in procedure and non-essential detail,” he said.
“Finally progress is being made towards addressing the shortfalls in regional health provision, and I look forward to witnessing the many benefits this program is certain to provide,” Mr Draper concluded.
$160,000 for work on Kootingal’s Sandy road
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Safety improvement works costing $160,000 have been completed on the Sandy Road near Kootingal, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
“A section of curves has been realigned on Sandy Road, which is located one kilometre east of the New England Highway at Kootingal,” Mr Draper said.
“An important part of the work on the road was to reduce the severity of its curves, improving road safety and reducing off road crashes.
“The improved conditions will also increase the distance motorists can see along the road for oncoming traffic.
“It is important that road conditions are conducive to a high sphere of visibility for motorists, and the newly aligned road will help prevent motorists leaving the roadway,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the $160,000 project was fully funded by the State Government as part of the Road Safety Program.
The work was undertaken by Tamworth Regional Council on behalf of the Roads and Traffic Authority.
Secure taxi rank for Tamworth
Thursday, July 13, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper today welcomed news the State Government would invest $17,000 in the establishment of a secure taxi rank at Brisbane St in Tamworth.
“This is an excellent security initiative for Tamworth and is timely after the recent anti-social behaviour,” Mr Draper said.
“Two security guards from a local firm will patrol the Brisbane St rank from next weekend on Friday/Saturday nights between 10:30 pm and 5am to keep the peace and get people home safely after a night out.
“The secure rank was very popular during the Country Music Festival and I am pleased the Government has listened to the calls from the community for a fully funded three-month trial of the rank. ”
Mr Draper said the success of the secure rank would be evaluated in three months time, with further funding provided from the Taxi Advisory Committee if the trial was successful. He said he understood Tamworth’s rank would be the first of up to 22 new secure ranks across NSW that the Government would implement to build on the existing ranks across the State.
“The people of Tamworth showed great support for Tamworth Radio Cabs and the trial during the Country Music Festival, and I am delighted the Government took note of the feedback I had relayed on behalf of the community and ensured the project received funding,” Mr Draper said.
“As we saw during the Country Music Festival, these ranks reduce anti-social behaviour, and promote greater respect for customers, cab drivers and surrounding property at specific times,” he said.
“I will continue to work with the Council, Police and local taxi operators to ensure this rank will be a success for Tamworth.
Mr Draper said that the secure rank was a strong safety initiative and he was hopeful the Taxi Safety Taskforce, chaired by former Deputy Commissioner of Police Dave Madden, would propose further ways to improve safety.
“One of the initiatives being considered by this Taskforce is security cameras being introduced into all taxis, including those which already have a security shield,” Mr Draper said.
“The Task Force will report to the Minister by the end of the year, and I look forward to any positive steps being made towards improving safety for both taxi drivers and their passengers,” he concluded.
Meeting sought with Treasurer on fire service levy
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
The NSW Government should heed the call from NSW residents to remove the fire services levy from insurance policies, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper is seeking a meeting with the Treasurer to discuss a more equitable strategy of raising funds for NSW fire services.
He said while NSW councils differ in their views towards removing the fire levy from insurance policies and adding to council rates, the proposal has received support locally.
“In recent months I have spoken with many residents who are absolutely outraged at being forced to pay the fire levy on top of their insurance policies,” Mr Draper said.
“Just last month commercial policy holders were forced to swallow a third increase in the fire service levy in less than 12 months, adding a massive 60 per cent increase from their previous policy. This increase came on top of an 85 per cent increase in stamp duty.
“Walcha Shire Council general manager Jack O’ Hara indicated the council would support a move to add the levy to the rates system, and said he expected most residents to accept the charge as it would see a significant reduction in their insurance costs.
“In May I gave notice in the NSW Parliament of my intention to have this issue debated and I look forward to initiating this debate when Parliament resumes.
Mr Draper said that he has been invited by the office of Liberal MP Andrew Humpherson to attend a meeting in Tamworth next week that the Shadow Minister has convened to discuss this issue.
“I look forward to the meeting in Tamworth, however Mr Humpherson needs to clarify the Coalition’s position on this area of concern,” he said.
“The Public Accounts Committee held an Inquiry into NSW Fire Service Funding in 2004 and recommended that the existing system be retained. This committee has both Liberal and National members, so I look forward to Mr Humpherson detailing the Coalition’s policy in this area.
“It is ironic while the problem affects all of NSW, it seems the Coalition have only planned public meetings in seats that they do not hold, such as Tamworth and Dubbo. To build credibility it would seem appropriate to call meetings right across the State and not just in areas where it is politically expedient,” Mr Draper concluded.
Draper calls for increased security at taxi ranks
Monday, July 10, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has called on Deputy Premier and Minister for Transport John Watkins to fund a regular security presence at Tamworth’s Brisbane St taxi rank.
Mr Draper met with Minister Watkins’ Senior Policy Advisor in Sydney today to discuss a proposal for two security guards to man the Brisbane St taxi rank on weekends, in a bid to curb street crime and anti-social behaviour and ensure the safety of late night city revellers.
“I have listened to the concerns of local businesses and the community on crime and anti-social behaviour in the Tamworth CBD, and ensuring those leaving hotels and clubs in the CBD get home safely is the first step in addressing those concerns,” Mr Draper said.
“During the meeting, I stressed the importance of resident and visitor safety in the Tamworth CBD after dark and a permanent weekend security presence at the CBD taxi rank was needed, similar to that employed during the Country Music Festival.
“The Minister has heard similar concerns from many other communities across the State. I stressed to him that a security presence would not only ensure the safety of those catching taxis, but also assist Tamworth Police in deterring crime and anti-social behaviour in the CBD at times when community vigilance is lowest.”
Mr Draper said through his office he had spoken with members of the Tamworth Taxi Co-Op, who had received support from Tamworth Police, the Tamworth Liquor Accord and Tamworth Regional Council for a permanent weekend security presence at the Brisbane St rank. He added a grant for such a project would most likely be in the vicinity of $50,000.
“The Taxi Co-op has been very proactive in having this issue addressed not only for their own safety, but for the safety of their prospective passengers as well,” he said.
“Much more work needs to be done to reduce the incidence of crime in the Tamworth CBD and I will continue working with local businesses and the community to see that happen.
Mr Draper said he expected a decision from the Minister’s office by the end of this week.
Joshua aims for world stage
Friday, July 7, 2006
Young Tamworth baseballer/softballer Joshua Manvell is well on the way to realising his ambitions to represent Australia on the world stage, according to the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper.
Mr Draper presented Joshua with a certificate recognising his selection for NSW in the Australian Under 16 Softball Fastpitch Championships last year, and congratulated Joshua on his achievement.
“Tamworth has long been known to produce quality athletes in both baseball and softball, and Joshua is an excellent example why the sports reputation is growing in our area,” Mr Draper said.
“Joshua tells me he is aiming to represent his country at the World Baseball Championships in 2008, and I wish him well in his efforts.”
Joshua, a year 12 student at McCarthy Catholic College and catcher in both baseball and softball, represented Tamworth in the NSW side, along with fellow local Liam Wise, where their team tasted success in winning the Fastpitch Championships.
Joshua also represented Australia in a recent friendship series against regional nations, where the Australian side also finished first.
“We have a wealth of talent in the district across a range of different sports, and Joshua’s success should encourage other aspiring sportspeople to set their goals high,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Tamworth MP Peter Draper congratulates baseballer/softballer Joshua Manvell.
Gallacher wrong again on police numbers in Oxley LAC
Thursday, July 6, 2006
Shadow Minister for Police Mike Gallacher has once again got it wrong on police numbers in the Oxley Local Area Command, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper was responding to inaccurate claims by Mr Gallacher that police numbers in the area were insufficient.
“It is pleasing to see Mr Gallacher’s new found interest in our area, however his irrational demolition of local police is exactly why people do not trust this politician’s approach of flying in and out of Tamworth for an afternoon media conference,” Mr Draper said.
“Unfortunately Mr Gallacher has a long history of getting things wrong, so he should deal with the facts, and not mislead the community in his efforts to support political hysteria spread by a candidate desperately seeking the media’s attention. When the Coalition was last in power, the Oxley Local Area Command had a total of 96 police. Today we have an authorised strength of 114, however our actual number of officers in the command is 123.
“Mr Gallacher has been informed of this fact by the Oxley LAC during his flying visit, but he still persists in peddling these untruths in an effort to traumatise the local community and denigrate our hard working local officers. Mr Gallacher has spent the day undermining the good work our police deliver to the people of the local area without promising a single extra officer should he be in Government next year. The questions he must answer are simple:
- How many extra police will a Coalition Government deliver to our local area should they win the next election, and when will they start work in the Oxley LAC?
- How much money will the Coalition commit to upgrading the Gunnedah Police Station, and how quickly will work start following the 2007 election?
“I would also like to see Mr Gallacher give a cast iron guarantee that local police will not be affected by the Coalition’s policy to sack 29,000 public servants, instead of spreading his brand of inaccurate political hysteria,” he said.
Mr Draper said he was meeting with members of the Tamworth District Chamber of Commerce, Oxley Police and representatives from Tamworth Regional Council later this month to discuss issues of street crime in the area and the possibility of video surveillance being installed in the Tamworth CBD.
“At the meeting I will be listening to the concerns of the business community, council and police on crime in the area, and I have already indicated to Mayor James Treloar that I would be happy to arrange a meeting with the Minister for Police following the meeting if required,” Mr Draper concluded.
Wild dog aerial baiting program must be monitored – Draper
Thursday, July 6, 2006
The Department of Environment and Conservation should examine its wild dog aerial baiting program to ensure maximum effectiveness in controlling an increasing number of the animals in NSW, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper welcomed the resumption of aerial baiting last month, and today backed a call from the NSW Farmers Association for the DEC to monitor the effectiveness of the program and alter it where applicable.
He said there remains a concern that insufficient amounts of bait are being used and the baits may be distributed in the wrong areas, so local livestock owners and native wildlife are still paying the price.
“There have been reports of wild dog attacks on lambs and ewes on properties east of Currabubula over the past 12 months, and the losses have been quite substantial,” Mr Draper said.
“There are also other reports of dog attacks or sightings at Quirindi, Wallabadah and Willow Tree, and even around the Trinkey State Forest west of Gunnedah. These incidents plus evidence from various land groups suggests that a greater number of dogs are moving west from the heavily wooded coastal areas of the state, where aerial baiting has been reduced over the last decade.
“The DEC must recognise the concerns of local graziers and farming groups and formulate a strategy that suitably addresses the issue of wild dog numbers, before they increase to plague proportions and place an even greater impost on farmers already struggling with drought.”
Aerial baiting in the local area has continued around the Barnard River, Glenrock, Nowendoc, Yarrowitch and the Moona Plains, plus some baiting had occurred east of Currabubula. Mr Draper said in the mid 1990’s, aerial baiting drops in the North East of the State were changed from placing baits where the wild dogs were known to be present, to placing the baits around the perimeters of the dogs ’ territory. This resulted in a lower exposure to the baits, as dogs usually crossed the bait line only once.
“By 2001 the amount of bait dropped during the Northern Tablelands wild dog program had dropped to just over 14,000kg from more than 23,000kg in 1995. This level had again risen to almost 20,000kg in 2004, but the concern remains that insufficient bait is being applied in the areas where it will prove most effective.
“Simply employing the strategy of aerial baiting is not an automatic guarantee of success – it must be carefully scrutinised and researched to ensure wild dog numbers are controlled and local livestock and wildlife are protected from attack,” he concluded.
Draper puts bite on State Government to support Croc Festival
Wednesday, July 5, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has welcomed a State Government rethink on funding for the Moree and Kempsey Croc Festivals later this year.
The events, which are designed to motivate and inspire students from across the North West to attend school, seek meaningful employment and lead healthy lifestyles without drugs or alcohol, were under threat due to a cutback in State Government funding.
“I received a letter from Peter Sjoquist, producer of the Croc Festival, seeking assistance to convince the State Government to restore its contribution to the Festivals staged in Moree and Kempsey,” Mr Draper said.
“The NSW Government had originally committed to provide $240,000 for the events, but Mr Sjoquist was recently informed the State would only provide $140,000, which threatened the viability of the events.
“As some 7,000 students from across the state have benefited immensely from the Festivals staged in Moree and Kempsey, this development was of great concern.
“After contacting the Premier detailing my concerns, I am pleased to say that the Government has reinstituted the full $240,000 for the events.”
Mr Draper said according to statistics gathered from 2005, ninety per cent of teachers who participated reported that the festival had helped improve relationships between them and their students. Most said that the festivals encouraged students to set goals in their lives, with 84 per cent saying it raised the students’ awareness to employment opportunities. More than half reporting school attendance had improved as a direct result of attending.
“The statistics speak for themselves, and it is appreciated that the State Government recognises the importance of continuing the Croc Festival in Moree and Kempsey,” Mr Draper said.
“The success of last year’s event has also attracted interest from other schools in the local area, so I encourage more schools to participate in what is an excellent program,” he concluded.
The Kempsey Croc Festival will be held September 19-21, while the Moree event will be staged September 26-28.
Country Music Festival receives ongoing support
Tuesday, July 4, 2006
The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has congratulated Tamworth Regional Council and Telstra for signing a new three-year agreement for sponsorship of the Tamworth Country Music Festival.
Today Telstra announced it would continue to provide sponsorship for the Festival until 2009, which will now be known as the Tamworth Country Music Festival presented by Telstra.
“The Tamworth Country Music Festival is an iconic event that is internationally recognised, and I’m delighted that Telstra has continued its support for the event,” Mr Draper said.
“I also congratulate Tamworth Regional Council and Telstra for reverting back to the name Tamworth Country Music Festival, which returns a sense of ownership of the Festival to the local community.”
Mr Draper also praised country music artists Adam Harvey, Kirsty Lee Akers, Nick Kingswell and Tamworth local Aleyce Simmonds for their ongoing success in the industry.
“These talented performers are prime examples of the many good things that come out of the Tamworth Country Music Festival, and are wonderful ambassadors for our event,” he said.
“Adam Harvey has long been a roving ambassador for Tamworth and Kirsty Lee Akers and Nick Kingswell recently performed in Nashville following success in the Telstra Road to Tamworth competition.
“We also have an enormous talent in Tamworth’s own 2005 Road to Tamworth winner Aleyce Simmonds, and I am positive all will prove to be excellent ambassadors for the Festival and our city in the future,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper (far right) with country music artists Adam Harvey, Kirsty Lee Akers, Aleyce Simmonds and Nick Kingswell at the announcement of a three-year sponsorship deal by Telstra for the Tamworth Country Music Festival.
Summers Sawmill saved from closure
Tuesday, July 4, 2006
Nundle’s largest employer Summers Sawmill will remain open following a last minute reprieve by Macquarie Generation that will see the company continue taking wood waste until the end of September, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper had been liaising with Macquarie Generation and the EPA in a bid to keep the sawmill open, following the conclusion of a contract with transport operators moving woodchips to the energy supplier on behalf of Summers. The mill had searched unsuccessfully for another buyer for the 60 tonnes of waste produced each day.
The mill has since been in negotiations with a Japanese firm to take to the woodchips, but any contract would not come into effect until the end of September should the negotiations prove successful.
“Positively for Summers Sawmill, the tender process for Macquarie Generation to source sawdust for electricity production instead of woodchips has been delayed, and as a result Macquarie has agreed to continue their existing arrangements until the end of September,” Mr Draper said.
“This is excellent news for the 17 workers at the sawmill whose jobs were under threat, and for the community of Nundle, which faced the loss of its largest industry. It is also welcome news for the many local transport operators who rely on the sawmill for regular work.
“The Sawmill has been in the Summers family for three generations and has a long and proud history with the town of Nundle, so to see its doors remain open is a welcome result.
“I thank Brian and Denny Summers and their wives Rosemary and Roslyn for approaching my office on the issue, and congratulate them on their hard fought campaign to ensure the sawmill remained open and the jobs were retained in the community.”
Mr Draper said the Summers’ would now have an opportunity to work through the details of the export contract while getting on with the business of processing timber.
“The mill contributes $9,000 in wages to Nundle families each week and $2.5 million to the local economy annually from softwood pine product, so to have it close while waiting for a new contract to commence would have been disastrous for both the employees and the town,” he said.
“The Summers can now look ahead to furthering the mill’s success, and I will continue to work with them to secure Government assistance if needed for the benefit of the Nundle community,” he concluded.
Photo: The Member for Tamworth Peter Draper discusses wood waste problems with Summers Sawmill co-owner/operator Denny Summers.
NAIDOC Week message one for all Australians – Draper
Monday, July 3, 2006
The message for NAIDOC Week celebrations of ‘Respect the past – believe in the future’ is one all Australians can embrace, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper joined with members of the Tamworth community at a special flag raising ceremony to open NAIDOC celebrations at the Tamworth Hospital, where he spoke of his experiences living in an Aboriginal community, and the many contributions those Australians make to society.
“I was fortunate enough to live in the community of Walhollow, near Caroona, where my father was the principal of the school for a period of five years,” Mr Draper said.
“Community elder Charlie White was a great influence on my life at the time, and the lessons I learned about Aboriginal culture were as valuable as the education I received at the school.
“I came away from that experience with a great respect for Aboriginal people that remains strongly with me today. The lessons I learned were rich and varied, and have had a positive influence on my views of society as a whole.
“I was encouraged to see many young faces among the crowd at today’s ceremony, which is a strong indication that the future of our country is in good hands.
“I encourage all Australians to embrace the message of ‘Respect the past - believe in the future’ as the lessons we can learn from what is the oldest surviving culture on earth will help Australia move toward a very promising future,” he concluded.
Photo: Tamworth and Armidale Hospital general manager Fergus Fitzsimons, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper, Aboriginal elder Ruby Waters, Elvyn ‘Pop’ Tighe and Brian Sampson cut the cake at today’s NAIDOC celebrations in Tamworth.
Resurfaced basketball courts and toilet cubicle for Gunnedah High
Monday, July 3, 2006
Gunnedah High School has received $43,500 to repair and resurface its basketball courts and replace a toilet cubicle, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
The work will be carried out over the July school holidays, and is part of $22.9 million provided for building and maintenance works at schools across the State.
“It is important that the State Government continues to invest in local school infrastructure so that students are comfortable and safe in their learning environment,” Mr Draper said.
“Encouraging students involvement in sport assists them to stay healthy, while also promoting a sense of camaraderie and discipline, so maintaining school sporting facilities is important to ensure student participation remains high.
“I welcome this investment in Gunnedah High School and thank the Government for acknowledging the importance of maintaining this school sporting facility. With the work carried out over the school holidays the disruption to studies is also avoided.”
Mr Draper said $34,500 would be spent on the basketball courts, while $9,000 would be spent building the new toilet cubicle. Other work totalling $409,137 is expected to be completed at the end of Term 2 at schools across the electorate of Tamworth including:
- Duri Public School air cooling $27,335
- Nowendoc Public School LP gas tank enclosure $7,938
- Oxley High School access carpark, access toilet facilities and ramping $92,000
- Peel High School chemical store $35,000
- Somerton Public School gutter replacement $8,000
- Tamworth West Public School air cooling $63,443, gutter replacement $10,000
- Tamworth High School stormwater drainage upgrade stage two $20,000
- Tamworth Public School air cooling $63,421, gutter replacement, painting, carpet repairs and building maintenance $42,000
- Tamworth South Public School cupboard replacements $12,000 gutter replacement $5,000
- Werris Creek Public School gutter replacement and General building maintenance $15,000
- Woolomin Public School gutter replacement $8,000
“This is a significant investment in schools across the local area, and I will continue to ensure the Government is aware of infrastructure needs at all our schools so they can be maintained to appropriate standards,” Mr Draper concluded.
