May 2005 Media Releases
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Safety issues at local schools on the agenda
31 May 2005
Schools in the electorate of Tamworth are still waiting for fencing upgrades under the NSW Government’s Safer Schools Program, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, told Parliament recently.
Mr Draper was contributing to a notice of motion put forward by the Member for East Hills, Alan Ashton, on steps taken by the NSW Government to make schools safer.
“Unfortunately due their size, exposure and hours of operation, schools are vulnerable to criminal activity,” Mr Draper said.
“One of the solutions is the school fencing program which the Government introduced several years ago, albeit slowly, to prevent trespassers and vandals from entering school grounds.
Mr Draper said the Safer Schools Program introduced two years ago included a directive to install 200 new security fences by the year 2007 at certain schools listed as priorities.
“Local schools on this list which are still waiting for fences include Tamworth High School and Westdale Public School. It is hoped that these fences will be erected as promised,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said due to its location near a shopping centre, Tamworth High was in need of a fence for security and aesthetic reasons, while Westdale had been placed on the priority list after a spike in break and entering into school buildings.
“While the spate of offences has abated, Westdale is still in need of a security fence due to the fact that exposed schools grounds are attractive to opportunistic criminals,” he said.
Mr Draper took the opportunity to express concern over the fact that the number of security program officers attached to the Department of Education’s Safety and Security Directorate had been reduced from nine to six earlier this year due to leave and transfers.
“The Tamworth electorate was one of the areas to lose its dedicated security program officer with safety and security issues arising at local schools being shared among the remaining officers,” he said.
Mr Draper said it was anticipated that the number of officers would be restored to the required level through a recruitment drive, however, he was concerned schools in the electorate could have been disadvantaged by the staff shortage.
Community and sporting groups urged to apply for capital assistance grants
31 May 2005
Applications are now open to local sporting and community groups for the 2005/2006 round of Capital Assistance Program grants, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper said the State Government’s program presented local groups with a great opportunity to develop new sporting or recreation facilities with help from the NSW Department of Sport and Recreation.
“The average amount the Department has allocated to organisations through the program over the past five years has been around $9000,” Mr Draper said.
In the 2004/2005 round of CAP grants successful projects included Tamworth’s Marsupial Park ($17,160 to improve walking trails), the Gunnedah Skate Park ($16,313 for an upgrade), Moonbi Recreation Reserve ($4,500 for construction and fencing of dressage arenas) and the Yarrowitch Sports Ground ($2,750 for the installation of power boxes).
Mr Draper said the Department matched funding dollar for dollar with organisations raising their own contributions.
“The criteria for eligible projects is quite broad and I would encourage any local group with a worthy project to apply,” he said.
Applications close on 31 July 2005 with forms available from Mr Draper’s Fitzroy St office on 6766 1422, from the regional Department of Sport and Recreation office in Tamworth or the website at www.dsr.nsw.gov.au.
Pharmacy belongs in the community not supermarket chains: Draper
30 May 2005
Supermarkets must not be allowed to open pharmacies in the interests of public health standards in rural NSW, according to the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper.
Mr Draper raised the issue in Parliament as a matter of public importance in response to recent moves by Woolworths to trial pharmacy in its outlets, saying it was imperative that both Federal and State governments maintained opposition to the proposal.
“There is a need to protect rural communities against the muscle flexing of supermarket giants as they continue to work toward securing a slice of the $9billion pharmaceutical market,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the move had sent a shudder through rural communities particularly Gunnedah where the town’s two pharmacists had spoken to him with concerns on the issue.
“The two outlets provide 36 direct jobs including registered nurses who offer a variety of health services such as baby consultations and blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol screening.
Mr Draper said rural pharmacies offered free advice, home medication reviews, information on prescription medication, compatibility of drugs and counselling as well as basic medical advice and referral which was critical in communities where access to GP services remained limited.
He said an independent study by The Curtin University estimated that Australia’s 5000 community pharmacists provided over 78 million free consultations annually.
“It is patently obvious local pharmacists provide a personal approach and focus on service more so than generating profit. Unfortunately rural chemists would not be able to compete with the buying power of the chain stores which are driven by turnover and share value rather than health care considerations.
He said the pharmacy workforce was ageing with the Australian Centre for Health and Welfare putting the average age of the nation’s 14,700 pharmacists at 42.8 years.
“It is predicted that an overall excess demand of pharmacists is likely to continue for the next decade with rural pharmacies already finding it difficult to recruit graduates.
Mr Draper said the profit-driven conglomerates were again exploring ways to infiltrate the legislative armour that Commonwealth and State governments had placed around the pharmacy industry as a shield against predatory market forces.
“I am concerned the Federal Government remains open to persuasion by the supermarkets and consumers who perhaps need only to come up with a more convincing argument.
He said the State Government was working with the Pharmacy Guild and others on a new health bill which aimed to align pharmacists with the professional standards of other medicos.
“I welcome the move as it is hoped the bill will maintain strong controls over those who have a pecuniary interest in pharmacy. It is imperative that the NSW Government continues to convey a strong message of support for community-based pharmacies, “ he said.
Housing Minister recognises Mary’s strong community spirit
30 May 2005
The NSW Housing Minister, Joe Tripodi, has recognised Coledale’s Mary Trindall for her contribution to the local community, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
Mary received an award in Parliament House last week at the NSW Government’s 2005 Public Housing Seniors Achievement Awards which recognised the achievements of eight senior citizens from across NSW.
Mr Draper praised Mary’s efforts as a housing stalwart and valued Elder of Coledale’s Aboriginal community.
“Mary has dedicated her life to advancing Aboriginal affairs and improving the lives of her people,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said Mary was particularly active with young people and currently served on the Northern Region Tenancy Council where she advocated the housing needs of Aboriginal people.
“Mary is also very active in the reconciliation process and works hard to achieve community harmony. She acts as an advocate on behalf of many Aboriginal people and works to encourage interaction between Aboriginals and white people in her area,” he said.
Mr Tripodi said he was delighted to present Mary with her award.
“With seniors representing 17 per cent of public housing tenants, the NSW Government has officially recognised the talent, wisdom and achievements of senior public housing residents such as Mary Trindall,” Mr Tripodi said.
“Many of the senior achievers recognised at the ceremony have faced their own challenges in life, yet work selflessly and tirelessly for their friends, neighbours and community,” he said.
The awards were open to all public housing residents aged 60 years of age and people with a lifelong disability over the age of 50. Fifty nominations were received from across the state and two seniors were recognised in each of the Department’s four divisions.
2GB radio presenter Mr Alan Jones presented the eight winners with their awards.
Photo (L-R) NSW Minister for Housing Joe Tripodi, Kylie Trindall, Mary Trindall with her 2005 Public Housing Seniors Achievement Award, Peter Draper MP, 2GB radio presenter Alan Jones and NSW Department of Housing Tamworth Acting Team Leader Kevin Crandell.
Currabubula offers more than art – just ask the locals
27 May 2005
The village of Currabubula offers a lifestyle choice worthy of consideration by the wider community the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, told Parliament this week.
Mr Draper drew attention to the list of works the Liverpool Plains Shire Council was considering for Currabubula as part of its 2005/2006 budget including a new toilet block for the sports ground, over $250,000 for road works, $10,000 for community works and an upgrade of cemetery headstones.
“The list includes $10,000 for picnic facilities in a park which honours Lorna Byrne, a former resident who made a name for herself academically, during War time and in journalism as the national presenter of ABC’s Country Hour Women’s section,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper also highlighted the efforts of locals including Rory and Rhonda Dowd and their new venture into a craft and coffee shop in the main street; the local publican Stuart Scott whose goat is to appear on the big screen, and the Duncan family which has successfully run the local store for the past 25 years.
“Houses in Currabubula are now fetching higher prices than neighbouring villages and the few that do go on the market are snapped up quickly, in fact the village is slowly growing,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper took the opportunity to share the wider appeal of the district, which supports a population of 250 people in light of the success of the 42nd annual Art Exhibition, run by the Currabubula Branch of the Australian Red Cross.
“Currabubula, like many villages long deserted by mainstream retailers and services, has a community that remains focused on the positive and seizes opportunities when they arise,” Mr Draper said.
He said the exhibition had raised over $500,000 for the Red Cross over the past four decades with painting sales up 20 per cent and the event generating $25,000 this year alone.
“The exhibition has helped Currabubula establish a name for itself as a friendly innovative community undaunted by its size and willing to pitch in when called upon.
“I have no doubt that Currabubula will continue to forge a name for itself in the north west as an enduring community with a friendly attitude and a lifestyle choice worth considering,” he said.
Timber talks continue in Sydney
27 May 2005
The NSW Minister for Environment, Bob Debus, will meet in Sydney today with the owner of Gunnedah Timbers George Paul, according to the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper.
Mr Draper facilitated today’s meeting to enable negotiations over the future of Gunnedah Timbers to continue despite the Minister’s decision to postpone his visit to Gunnedah next week.
Mr Draper said it was vital that negotiations with the Government continued without delay as the future of the mill and its workers were at stake.
“It has come down to finding a positive way forward through this disgraceful decision and not being drawn into political point scoring. I have been liaising closely with the Pauls and the Minister and am hopeful today’s talks will bring the parties closer to agreement on how the resources of the Brigalow will be shared,” he said.
Draper secures ongoing drought funding for Gunnedah and District Rural Counselling Service
26 May 2005
North-west farmers will continue to have access to the Gunnedah and District Rural Counselling Service following a commitment of ongoing funding from the NSW Government, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
Mr Draper asked the NSW Premier, Bob Carr, to provide the service with additional funding in the coming financial year due to the drought. The service has been receiving extra funding of $25,000 per annum to help it meet increased demand from farmers seeking advice.
Responding to a question from Mr Draper in Parliament, the Premier said the Government was willing to make a renewed commitment to drought support workers and the Rural Financial Counselling program.
“The funding Gunnedah has received for the past two years will be extended another year,” Mr Carr said.
“Farmers are resilient and optimistic but in these arid lands with this variable climate and this very tough drought, they need this extra assistance,” he said.
Mr Draper was pleased with the response given the workload for the Gunnedah and District Rural Counselling Service’s counsellor Pat Gaynor was likely to increase as the drought intensified in the north-west.
Mr Draper had previously highlighted the service’s difficult financial position in the Parliament drawing attention to the State Government’s failure to increase its funding contribution over the 18 years of the service’s operation.
“Mr Gaynor has provided a free service to around 1070 farmers in the north west over a 17- year period and it is vital that his role can continue,” Mr Draper said.
“The service is designed to give options to farmers facing financial difficulty, however, Mr Gaynor is also a person with whom farmers can talk to about personal issues which helps immeasurably in terms of emotional support.
Mr Draper said the service was a joint State and Commonwealth partnership, however, the voluntary committee which administers the Gunnedah branch was having to increase fundraising efforts in the community to make up for a shortfall in funding which was gradually increasing in size.
“While the drought payment is welcome, the Gunnedah and District Rural Counselling Service Board is concerned that recurrent funding is falling short even when the seasons are favourable. I intend to keep lobbying the Government to ensure the service is unimpeded by budgetary constraints,” he said.
Click here for a copy of the Hansard of Mr Draper’s question is attached.
Gunnedah timber talks called off due to Nationals’ political stunt
25 May 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, is disappointed that workers and staff at Gunnedah Timbers have missed out on constructive discussions with the NSW Environment Minister, Bob Debus, planned for next week.
Mr Draper said the Minister has postponed his visit to officially open a new recycling plant and visit Gunnedah Timbers as a result of The Nationals’ political antics and grandstanding.
“There are 50 jobs and a substantial local business at stake and these negotiations are delicate and detailed,” Mr Draper explained.
“They cannot be conducted in an hysterical atmosphere whipped up for political purposes which defeats the whole concept of reasonable discussion.
Mr Draper said the Nationals’ plan to hijack the Minister’s visit with party political demonstrations was in stark contrast to the success of recent negotiations over the loss of jobs at Bingara Cypress Pine.
“A deal was brokered to offer local jobs to all the workers who have been made redundant so that they have the choice of remaining in their hometown and continuing to contribute their skills to the local community,” he said.
“Detailed discussions were planned with management and workers during the Minister’s visit to Gunnedah Timbers. But the political posturing of a former Nationals’ MP and the local Nationals’ branch has badly misfired and put the hopes of finding a timely solution at risk.
“With people’s livelihoods and businesses at stake, I would have expected people from all political persuasions to unite behind a positive strategy.
Mr Draper said he was bitterly disappointed over the delay as negotiations were at such a delicate stage.
“I have already spoken to the Minister about rescheduling the meeting as soon as possible and will continue to press for an early opportunity for Gunnedah Timbers’ management and workers to have these high level discussions which so vitally affect their future,” he said.
Minister listens to call to restore programs for people with disabilities
25 May 2005
The Independent member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has welcomed a commitment from the Government to increase funding for people with a disability who are not able to secure a job.
This week the NSW Minister for Disability Services, John Della Bosca, announced $6million in additional funding for the Community Participation Program after his predecessor cut funding through controversial reforms.
Mr Draper said the funding would guarantee that people with a disability would have at least 3 days (or 18 hours) support a week through the program which provides opportunities to learn and develop skills to help them take part in community life.
“In the Tamworth region the major service provider for people with disabilities is Challenge Disability Services which is expecting the funding will equate to around $1400 per person per annum to spend on attendance of programs.
“Challenge Chief Executive Officer Barry Murphy said it would assist 50 Challenge clients on high support needs although many of these people are already receiving access to the program three-days-a-week.
Mr Draper said the reforms to the delivery of programs for people with disabilities had meant Challenge was forced to reduce provision of its one-on-one supervision of clients many of whom had undertaken work experience. Instead they were placed in group activities.
“Hopefully this funding will enable the service to again be a little creative with their programs, however, I believe the Government needs to recognise that additional funding would be needed to restore programs to the quality and level enjoyed prior to the changes” he said.
Mr Draper said the reforms had been stressful and a burden for many families who had been forced to pay for up to two days of their child’s supervision out of their own pocket even though many were in tough financial situations due to their role as carers.
Tamworth electorate wins investment in health and education in State Budget
24 May 2005
Spending on health and education infrastructure is a feature of the Tamworth electorate’s share of the 2005/2006 State Budget, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
Mr Draper welcomed an overall $39 million investment which includes ongoing funding for a new hospital at Walcha, an upgrade of the Tamworth TAFE and spending on major school and ambulance projects in Gunnedah.
The major new projects in the Tamworth electorate to receive funding include:
- A hall for the Gunnedah South Public School
- $840,000 to build a new Gunnedah Ambulance Station
- A share of $60million for new light automotive, electrical and electronics facilities for Tamworth TAFE
- $577,000 for group homes for people with a disability
- $300,000 for an upgrade of the Tamworth (and Quirindi) Day Care Programs
- $570,000 to reconstruct, realign and seal a Nundle bypass road to accommodate an increase in traffic between forests and Quirindi’s McVicar timber mill.
“‘I am particularly pleased to see the Government recognise the need to invest in a new ambulance station in Gunnedah and a long-awaited hall for the Gunnedah South Public School,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the Gunnedah community had thrown its full support behind the bid to secure a new station and was instrumental in convincing the Health Minister Morris Iemma of the need to replace the town’s inadequate 50-year-old facility.
“The local ambulance officers led by Station Manager Luis Luzuriaga will be thrilled at the prospect of having a new $840,000 purpose-built facility. The officers are keen to work with the Health Department on the building’s design and location and I look forward to works beginning on this important project which will improve the delivery of emergency medical retrieval services for Gunnedah and the wider district,” he said.
Mr Draper said the provision of funding for the Gunnedah South Public School Hall was a terrific win for the school community whose unfailing efforts to secure a decent hall on behalf of their 540 students had paid off.
“The school is the largest public primary school in NSW without a hall leaving its students to endure school assemblies under a basic shelter. The school has fought for 10 years to get this facility and full credit is due to the principal Greg Woods, the teaching staff and parents.
“I now look forward to inviting the Education and Training Minister Carmel Tebbutt to the school to turn the first sod,” he said.
Mr Draper said funding for ongoing infrastructure projects in the electorate included:
- $4 million for the Walcha Multi Purpose Service (Hospital)
- $1.265 million for an upgrade of Lake Keepit, $940,0000 for dam maintenance and $750,000 for Chaffey Dam upgrade at Bowling Alley Point
- $310,000 for a new fire engine for Walcha, funding for renovations of the West Tamworth Fire Station and $18,000 subsidy for a new Gunnedah SES vehicle.
Other projects to receive funding include: $160,000 for Kootingal’s Sandy Rd alignment, $45,000 for a cycleway on Duri Rd from Kent St to Electra St, Tamworth and $25,000 for pedestrian access and mobility plans in the Tamworth and New England areas.
Mr Draper said he was disappointed there was not more investment in roads for the electorate despite an overall increase in the Government’s spending on road infrastructure.
“I will be approaching the Roads Minister Michael Costa to see if discretionary funding will be available for key road projects in the electorate such as Manilla Rd and Topdale Rd.
Mr Draper said he was meeting with the Minister on Thursday with Walcha mayor Bill Heazlett to discuss funding for Topdale Rd and would raise other road priorities for the electorate.
Mr Draper welcomed an additional $4.6million statewide for apprenticeship programs with a doubling in the overnight accommodation allowance and increased travel support for rural students, and health funding to recruit additional cancer nurses to Tamworth Base Hospital.
Inquiry into police on sick leave needed for Oxley
23 May 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has welcomed the reconvening of a Ministerial inquiry into the numbers of police on long-term sick leave due to the level of police off work in the Oxley Local Area Command.
Earlier this month Mr Draper arranged a meeting with the NSW Police Minister Carl Scully and mayors from Walcha, Tamworth Regional, Gunnedah and Liverpool Plains Shire councils where the issue of police on sick leave was one of the topics discussed.
“The issue of police on sick leave was raised at the meeting as it has been causing concern in the smaller communities such as Quirindi and Werris Creek in particular for some time,” Mr Draper said.
“Rural communities have distance and isolation to consider and I believe the Minister took these concerns on board in reconvening a Ministerial Inquiry into Long-term Sick Leave of NSW Police Officers.
Mr Draper has also been liaising with the Oxley Local Area Commander Tony Jefferson over the number of officers who have not been available for duty due to illness, and while pleased to see the situation slightly improve, he would like to see the recruitment process streamlined.
“The situation in Oxley has improved, however, the commander is not able to recruit extra police until those on long-term sick leave are processed as medically unfit,” Mr Draper said.
“While the number remaining on leave has dropped to nine, long-term solutions need to be found so that country stations are not under resourced and community expectations are met.
Mr Draper said he understood a number of the officers on long-term sick leave in Oxley would be discharged on medical grounds in the near future which meant they could be replaced.
“Even though police are classified on long-term sick leave, their positions are still being factored into the overall strength of police numbers in the command placing unnecessary pressure on able-bodied officers.
“Oxley has an authorised strength of 114 officers while the actual strength including those on sick leave is 117. The system needs to be streamlined so that officers who are subject to injury or illness, and are not able to return to work are discharged at the earliest opportunity.
Mr Draper said Tamworth and the Oxley Highway Patrol police contingents were at authorised strength while Gunnedah was looking forward to more recruits arriving in June. Quirindi station remained one officer down but the position would be replaced in the near future.
“Local police have been working extremely hard to meet community expectations, however, I hope the inquiry is able to identify strategies which will improve the availability of police in the long term,” he said.
Draper calls for fairness and consistency in drought relief
20 May 2005
Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper has called on the State Government to make adequate provision in its pending Budget for farmers facing yet another season of debilitating drought.
Mr Draper said record fuel prices were adding to the drought burden of farmers facing their fourth year of crop losses while weather forecasters were predicting a warmer than average winter.
“Conditions are not boding well for the coming season, yet I am still receiving reports from drought-affected farmers that it is almost impossible to access suitable assistance packages,” Mr Draper said.
“Because some farmers are working off-farm to earn income to feed their families they are being disqualified from Exceptional Circumstances assistance despite needing this support to battle through the worst drought in living memory.
“Farmers report having to jump through so many hoops to qualify for assistance that many simply give up trying.
Mr Draper also called on the NSW Premier, Bob Carr, to be consistent in view of his recent call for the banking industry to show compassion when dealing with farmers facing financial difficulties as a result of the drought.
“I believe the Government should follow its own advice and ensure funding is continued to the Gunnedah and District Rural Counselling Service which faces downsizing or closure due to insufficient financial support,” Mr Draper said.
“During the last sitting of Parliament I highlighted the essential nature of this service for farmers across the local district and the fact that it may be forced to close if the Government discontinues drought assistance relief funding this year.
“Our farming families are facing enough difficulties without resources such as the Rural Counselling Service facing closure in a time of greatest need.
Mr Draper also supported calls for some of the Federal Government’s $9billion surplus to be diverted to farmers and rural communities to alleviate the effects of drought.
“While the drought tour being undertaken by the Prime Minister and his Deputy today will generate ‘good’ media coverage, I am certain that farmers are seeking action and clear plans to help them stay in the industry,” he said.
“It is time for a collective effort from State and Federal Governments to formulate workable policies that will be accessible and effective in helping farmers through this difficult time.
“Instead of playing the political blame game, the State and Federal governments should be working together to support this vital industry and the communities that are dependent on agriculture for their economic wellbeing,” he said.
Organic flour industry expands in Gunnedah
20 May 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has congratulated Gunnedah’s Neale family on the expansion of their Wholegrain Milling Company.
Under the directorship of Harry and Wendy Neale and management of their son Craig, the company has been given assistance from the NSW Minister for Regional Development, David Campbell, towards a $700,000 expansion of its organic flour factory.
Mr Draper said the expansion would allow the company to increase its production of more than 1,200 tonnes of organic flour to 6,400 tonnes per annum which was sold nationally to bakeries and wholesalers and to export markets.
The Neale’s are now in the process of relocating their operation to a new site in Gunnedah’s industrial estate.
“The company has constructed a purpose-built factory on the site of the former pet food manufacturer Best Care Foods which was destroyed by an explosion in 2003,” Mr Draper said.
“It’s great to see a local business move onto the site and invest in its infrastructure for the purpose of expansion as Gunnedah lost an entire industry and 30 employees were affected when Best Care relocated to Dubbo.
Mr Draper said the company, which sourced organic grains locally and from as far afield as South Australia and Queensland aimed to expand its workforce from seven to 15 jobs over the next two years.
“I am pleased to see the Government recognise the potential of this business which is aiming to expand on its supply of overseas and national markets with its high quality stoneground products.
“Many people are surprised to learn of an organic flour producer in Gunnedah especially given its one of the only multi-certified organic stone grinding mills in Australia. It demonstrates that niche industries can operate in rural communities and remain competitive on the international market. The Neales are a classic example of the quiet achiever.”
Loomberah teens’ competitive edge in hockey
13 May 2005
Sibling rivalry has had a positive influence on Loomberah’s Sam and Emma Clifton (at right) who last year represented NSW in hockey with both teams coming away the victors.
Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said Sam, 17, and Emma, 13, competed at 2004 State championships and subsequently earned themselves recognition from the State Government in the form of State Representative Certificates.
“Sam, who admits sibling rivalry has been helpful in keeping the pair competitive, was a member of the NSW Under 16 CHS Hockey Team which contested the 2004 Australian Boys Hockey Championships in Newcastle in August,” Mr Draper said.
The team met Victoria in the final to win the game 3-1.
Meanwhile Emma travelled to Coffs Harbour in September to contest the Under 13 Invitational Championships.
“A member of NSW Under 13 Girls State Waratah Team, Emma scored one of three goals the team recorded against the ACT which was unable to put any points on the board.
“The Waratahs were also undefeated throughout the meet making for a formidable side to face in the final,” he said.
In recognition of Sam and Emma’s achievements, Mr Draper, presented the State Representative Certificates on behalf of the NSW Premier, Bob Carr. The certificates, which feature the State Coat of Arms and the Premier’s signature, recognise athletes who have reached the state level in any competitive field such as dance, sport, the arts or academics.
Gunnedah police put convincing case to Minister
12 May 2005
Gunnedah police put a strong case to the NSW Police Minister, Carl Scully, today for the Government to invest in a further upgrade of the Gunnedah Police Station.
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, invited Mr Scully to inspect the station which has benefited from a $600,000 injection for a new custody management area but still features an ageing reception, kitchen and interview area.
“Mr Scully described the station as ‘an interesting hybrid of old and new’ which was an apt description as there is a marked contrast between the standard of the refurbished area and the dated reception area which is the hub of the station,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said he was pleased with the Minister’s consideration of the station which the Government identified last year as a priority for future expenditure.
“Hopefully the inspection will move the station further up the list even though the Minister pointed out it was one of many in NSW which needed investment to bring up to standard.
“What seemed to impress the Minister was the fact that Oxley Local Area Command police supported by the community were pushing for 24-hour policing in Gunnedah in the long term. Mr Scully openly admitted that police infrastructure such as stations and residences was an area the Government needed to focus on and invest in.
“Gunnedah needs to have a decent facility before 24-hour policing can become a reality and I believe today was a positive step in that direction as Mr Scully acknowledged that plan was being stymied by the current condition of the station,” he said.
“Mr Scully explained that he had enlisted the former Olympics Minister Michael Knight to scrutinise how the Police Department could better manage its police properties and assets and generate income which could be re-invested in infrastructure. This would combine with the $200million already set aside in the current budget to be spent over five years on stations across the state,” he said.
Draper takes timber concerns to Debus
11 May 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, is urging the NSW Environment and Conservation Minister, Bob Debus, to heed calls from the timber mill operators of the north west to reconsider the Government’s allocation of woodlands for logging.
Mr Draper said the mood of the communities affected by the NSW Government’s decision to conserve 348,000 hectares of the Brigalow Belt South Bioregion had descended into anger and disappointment as the timber industry held grave concerns that a lack of access would lead to their slow demise.
“The Minister needs to acknowledge that millers like Gunnedah Timbers have genuine concerns that quotas have been reduced and the quality of what they do have access to will not sustain them into the future.
“The decision was made by Cabinet but it is obvious Minister Debus is the key player in the swing toward the conservation of the area. The millers feel the Government’s decision does not strike a balance between conservation and industry as the quotas being offered contain poor quality logs while prime logging areas are out of bounds.
“It is imperative the Government revisit this decision with a view of broadening the allocation.
Mr Draper said the negotiations between the NSW Minister for Primary Industries Minister Ian Macdonald and Gunnedah Timbers had so far proven positive with the Minister agreeing to take their concerns back to Cabinet.
“Minister Macdonald has been openly supportive of the industry’s position having met the mill operators and their workers.
“I am relaying the depth of response emanating from the timber communities to Minister Debus in the hope that he may reconsider his position. I have also asked the Minister to visit Gunnedah to hear the concerns of the industry first hand.”
Team effort delivers equine mecca to Tamworth
11 May 2005
The Federal Government’s commitment of $6million to the National Equine and Livestock Centre is worth celebrating as the final instalment of funding needed to make the $10million project a reality for Tamworth, the Independent Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
The funding, announced in the Federal budget, will combine with $3.35million pledged by the NSW Government last year, Tamworth Regional Council’s in kind contribution of $1.6million and the industry’s contribution of $750,000.
Mr Draper said raising the necessary funds has been a true team effort with the NSW Government playing a key role by untying its $3.35million pledge from any Federal Government contributions in April last year.
“In making the funding unconditional on Federal funding the State Government demonstrated a solid commitment to the project and gave the future of the equine and livestock industry a huge vote of confidence,” Mr Draper said.
“The support for this project has come from all sectors and through the sharing of the cost burden, Tamworth and the equine industry nationwide will benefit significantly from this spectacular facility,” he said.
Police Minister tours Gunnedah Police Station
11 May 2005
The NSW Police Minister, Carl Scully, will inspect the Gunnedah Police Station tomorrow at the invitation of the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper.
Mr Draper said he invited Mr Scully to travel to Gunnedah for the first time in his capacity as Police Minister to inspect the station which underwent a $600,000 renovation last year.
“I would like Mr Scully to see what the previous Minister’s commitment of funding achieved at the station,” Mr Draper said.
“Local police are working towards the provision of 24-hour policing in Gunnedah and I would like the Minister to work with the community to achieve this in the not-too-distant future.
“The Oxley Local Area Commander plans to make the Gunnedah Police Station available to the community around the clock but to achieve this the facility needs an injection equivalent to that which has already been spent.
“It’s critical that adequate facilities are provided to our frontline police to enable them to carry out their duties in the most effective and efficient way possible. If 24-hour policing is to become a reality for Gunnedah, the station must be up to scratch.
Mr Draper said the station had a new state-of-the-art custody management area but the reception area, interview rooms, internal structure and flooring needed substantial refurbishment.
He said Gunnedah’s station had been identified as a ‘top priority’ in the NSW Police Department’s master plan which aimed to overhaul and rebuild the state’s substandard stations.
“Funding was set aside to prioritise the stations and I am hopeful Gunnedah will move closer to the top of the list following tomorrow’s inspection,” Mr Draper said.
Draper supports laws to control game/feral animals
9 May 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has supported proposed new laws which aim to improve the control of and research into game and feral animals.
The Game and Feral Animal Control Amendment Bill was introduced into the NSW Parliament last week and proposes to amend the original legislation in two ways.
Mr Draper said the first amendment would enable any proceeds of fines for offences under the Game and Feral Animal Control Act go to the Game Council (which manages game animals and provides advice to government) instead of into Consolidated Revenue.
The Bill will also allow the Game Council to spend its funding on more diverse projects such as training courses on responsible hunting and research on game animals and their interaction with other species.
“The ability of the Game Council to divert some of its funding into research will ultimately produce better results for farming communities which suffer the effects of game and feral animals, and for native species,” Mr Draper said.
“The Bill has been developed in consultation with the Game Council and will assist in the long term goal of becoming self sufficient. Being able to receive monies paid in fines will result in funds being available to develop strategies, train game managers and research the best methods of control and culling,” he said.
Mr Draper said every animal introduced into Australia by human beings, with the notable exception of the sheep, had become feral with few vulnerable to natural predators or fatal diseases.
He said alternative control measures to those of poisoning, trapping and shooting needed to be investigated and developed, and while diseases were effective, they could also result in a slow painful death.
“In a method known as immuno-contraception, Australian scientists are genetically engineering viruses and bacteria that will render infected animals infertile with promising results already apparent in the breeding of rabbits foxes and mice,” he said.
Business community wins fight to change draft Workplace Fatalities Bill
5 May 2005
The Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has congratulated the business communities of the north-west region for successfully lobbying the NSW Government over its unfavourable Workplace Fatalities Bill.
The NSW Minister, John Della Bosca, today introduced a revised proposal – the Occupational Health and Safety (Workplace Deaths) Bill 2005. Industry representative body Australian Business Limited has touted the Bill as a workable piece of legislation that should target rogue employers without threatening the wider business community.
“It is important that when employers disregard OH&S obligations toward their staff and this negligence results in a death, they are prosecuted to the full extent of the law. It is equally important that the relevant legislation does not put responsible employers at risk of hefty fines and jail sentences when an employee is killed due to circumstances beyond their control,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the new Bill specified that increased penalties would apply to employers whose conduct caused the death of another person at work and that conduct was reckless in being likely to cause death or serious injury.
Mr Draper said the original draft sent a chill through business and farming communities as it threatened employers with life-changing penalties irrespective of their safety record or adoption of measures to ensure the health and well being of their workers.
“I am pleased to see the inclusion of a new provision which allows employers to use a defence of having a reasonable excuse to justify their actions given the circumstances. This was a significant sticking point in the previous proposal,” he said.
Mr Draper said because the Fines Act continued to apply in regard to the distribution of the proceeds of a successful case, it remained the case that WorkCover could continue to receive half the fine if the court directed so.
“The community viewed this as giving WorkCover an incentive to prosecute, however, given the law has narrowed its angle toward rogue employers this may not be as contentious,” he said.
Mr Draper said a public meeting he convened in Tamworth to examine the original Bill coupled with a meeting organised by the Gunnedah District Development Board in Gunnedah resulted in combined attendance of about 350 and a flood of protest phone calls and letters to his office.
“I raised the issue in Parliament and made hundreds of representations to the Minister from farmers, business owners and concerned community members from across the electorate, and as word spread, from outlying communities.
“It was an overwhelming response and proves that people do have the power to effect change if they feel passionate enough and are prepared to act on it. The weight of numbers did help and a roll out of meetings across the state organised by State MPs, State Chamber of Commerce, business advocates and the NSW Farmers’ Association caught the Minister’s attention.
“Throughout the draft Bill’s consultation process the Minister regularly responded to the reaction in the north west through contributions to letters to the editor pages. He was keeping tabs on what was happening up here which demonstrated he was listening,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper expressed his appreciation to Gunnedah solicitor Peter Long who spoke at the public meetings and provided a clear insight into the ramifications of the original draft Bill. He also thanked Paul Ritchie of Australian Business Limited and Employers First CEO Garry Brack who presented powerful arguments.
“I would urge community members to view the new Bill which is available on the WorkCover website www.workcover.nsw.gov.au and to contact my office should they have any concerns,” Mr Draper said.
See also Australian Business Limited media release (Word document). Click here to download.
North-west farmers could lose a shoulder to lean on through the tough times
5 May 2005
North-west farmers hit by financial hardship face reduced access to advice if the Government fails to commit more funding to the Gunnedah and District Rural Counselling Service, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
Mr Draper said the Gunnedah-based counselling service was in a vulnerable financial position as the State Government had not provided enough funding to cater for more farmers seeking advice this year due to the ongoing drought.
“I met recently with the Gunnedah and District Rural Counselling Service’s committee chairperson, Douglas Richard, who informed me the service faced closure due to the impact of the drought and the committee’s inability to secure adequate financial backing from the State Government,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the voluntary committee paid a full-time counsellor, Mr Pat Gaynor, and a part-time office worker to offer a free financial referral service to farmers in Tamworth, Gunnedah, Walcha and Liverpool Plains as well as parts of Narrabri and Coonabarabran districts.
“The service is designed to give options to those in financial hardship but offers much more as Mr Gaynor is a person with whom farmers feel they can discuss deeper issues arising from the significant stresses of farm life,” Mr Draper said.
“I am concerned as statistics show that more than 2000 Australian men commit suicide each year with the rate higher among males living in rural and remote areas. Without an organisation like the Gunnedah and District Counselling Service it’s hard to know who the region’s farmers would turn to.
Mr Draper said the service assisted over 1070 farmers in the past 17 years with an average year attracting about 140 clients. This number climbed to 321 during the drought in 2002/2003 which prompted a $25,000 ex gratia payment from the State Government to help with the added pressure.
Mr Draper said the Government continued the payment in 2003/04 financial years but this was not offered for the current year. Despite the committee exercising budgetary constraints the service is in danger of significant downsizing or closure.
“The service sources funds from both State and Commonwealth governments and makes up the difference through community sources such as local government.
“Incredibly there has been no increase in the State Government’s contribution since the service formed in 1988 and it has become harder on the committee to raise additional funding from the community due to local government amalgamations.
Gunnedah and District Rural Counselling Service Committee Chairperson Douglas Richard said to run an organisation on the hope there may or may not be ongoing support was poor governance.
“Financial insecurity is an unnecessary imposition on a voluntary committee,” Mr Richard said.
Mr Draper called on the Government to allocate adequate funding to the service in the forthcoming budget to enable the committee to continue delivering a critical service to the region’s farmers.
Contact: Gunnedah and District Rural Counselling Service Chairperson Mr Douglas Richard Ph: 6743 2260; Mobile: 0428 423 880.
Click here for a copy of the Hansard of Mr Draper’s speech.
Timber to stay in Gunnedah in Government’s plan for Brigalow Belt South Bioregion
4 May 2005
The Government’s decision to offer a lifeline to Gunnedah Timbers as part of its management plan of the Brigalow Belt South Bioregion has been cautiously welcomed by the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper.
Mr Draper attended a briefing in the NSW Parliament today where the NSW Premier, Bob Carr, announced Gunnedah Timbers was one of seven timber mills to be offered a 20-year contract to log forests contained within the Bioregion.
Owned by George Paul and family, Gunnedah Timbers operates processing mills at Gunnedah and Baradine and employs 50 workers. The decision indicates the company will receive financial support from a Government package to improve production and value add.
“This deal appears to selectively draw from parts of the timber industry’s preferred BRUS (Brigalow Region United Stakeholders) management option in that it provides for a 20-year wood supply contracts and underpins the value of new value-added industries, ” Mr Draper said.
“I am pleased a decision has been made and at this stage, it appears to favour continued operations at Gunnedah Timbers which has suffered through the cancellation of contracts due to the uncertainty generated by the Government’s delayed decision.
“While the proposal sounds reasonable, it remains to be seen whether the contract will provide industry with sufficient sources of quality product. I am also concerned it might mean mill operators will have to travel further to access resources that previously for Gunnedah Timbers were taken from forests within 50kms of the town.
Mr Draper said proprietors of mills at Dubbo, Gunnedah, Baradine (Gunnedah Timbers), Quirindi, Gulargambone and Gwabegar would also be offered contracts with access to the supplies of 57,000 cubic metres per annum.
He said on the downside, two cypress mills in Bingara and Narrabri and a hardwood mill at Baradine (Gallagher Insultimber Partnership) would shut down with proprietors agreeing to accept an industry buy-out strategy.
“The exit strategy seems attractive to owners wishing to depart the industry but I am yet to learn whether this will allay concern among those communities as to the economic future of their towns,” Mr Draper said.
“I understand employees at the mills which will close will receive their full entitlements and are guaranteed jobs in their region with State Forests, the Department of Environment and Conservation and timber industry positions available.
Mr Draper said it was possible local Government positions may be offered to workers with the NSW Government prepared to subsidise their wages. Workers taking up the offer of alternative employment will receive a one-off payment of $27,000, while employees seeking alternative jobs outside those offered in the restructure will receive a lump sum of $72,000.
“The fact remains that an industry will be lost to some communities and while short term fixes soften the blow, the long term result is a loss of skills, job options and population,” he said.
“I am also pleased the Government has undertaken to protect coal and gas reserves in the region and ensure the future access for apiarists.
“I am relieved that Gunnedah Timbers which generates $1.1million in wages per annum and has operated Australian cypress processing mill in Gunnedah for 30 years producing $6million in product has a foreseeable future, but I await further detail on what quality of timber will be available and where it will be sourced.
“It is important that the allocation of timber supplies is sustainable and does in fact enable the industry to grow in Gunnedah and have a secure long-term future,” he said.
Crunch time for Health Minister on Gunnedah Ambulance Station funding
3 May 2005
The time has come for the NSW Health Minister to commit funds to build a new ambulance station for Gunnedah, the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, told the NSW Parliament today.
Mr Draper asked the Minister, Morris Iemma, to bite the bullet and commit the funding given the community’s demonstrated support for a new station which ideally would be constructed on the Gunnedah Hospital grounds.
Mr Draper enlisted the community’s support for a new station by asking residents to sign letters addressed to the Minister detailing the problems with the current facility and calling on him to provide the necessary funds.
“The Minister has been given over 2300 letters from Gunnedah residents supporting the campaign to build a new station which I believe would cost around $800,000,” Mr Draper said.
“I have called on Mr Iemma to make a funding commitment as I believe the community deserves to know whether its lobbying efforts have been successful or otherwise.
Mr Draper drew the Minister’s attention to the fact that plans for a new station were first drawn up by the Askin Government in 1974 but for reasons unknown action was never taken leaving Gunnedah with a facility that was considered out of date 30 years ago.
“The station’s ambulance officers are doing an outstanding job servicing Gunnedah and the wider district despite operating out of an uncomfortable, antiquated and impractical station,” he said.
“I believe the community has presented a convincing case for a new facility which, if built on the grounds of the Gunnedah Hospital, would improve the ambulance service’s response to the community’s health emergencies as well as the working relationship between the service and hospital staff,” he said.
Draper calls on Premier to end Brigalow uncertainty
3 May 2005
Staff morale at Gunnedah Timbers is at an all time low as a result of the Carr Government’s failure to announce a decision on the future of the Brigalow Belt South Bioregion according to the Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper.
In Parliament today, Mr Draper called upon the NSW Premier Bob Carr, to announce a decision on the future management of the Bioregion as a matter of urgency for the sake of the timber industry in Gunnedah.
“I drew the Premier’s attention to the fact that Gunnedah Timbers management are struggling to motivate staff as the delay in an announcement is creating concern and disillusionment in the ranks,” Mr Draper said.
“There has also been a great deal of uncertainty created in the wider community in towns such as Gunnedah and Baradine as a result of the Government’s inability to make a decision.
Mr Draper said Gunnedah mayor Gae Swain and the council’s General Manager Max Kershaw had planned to meet with Ministers during their visit to Sydney this week to discuss the impacts of the delay.
Mr Draper said he was hopeful the Government had taken into consideration the need for a sustainable timber industry in balance with conservation measures.
“The displacement of timber industry players through a lock up of resources would be the worst possible result and I trust the cabinet deliberations have taken this long because the Government wants to get it right,” he said.
Mr Draper said speculation had been mounting for weeks that a decision was imminent.
“This has only served to further discourage an industry which has literally waited years for confirmation of future access to timber resources,” he said.
$1.5million for intensive care beds confirmed for Tamworth Base Hospital
2 May 2005
Tamworth Base Hospital will receive $1.5million to open two additional intensive care beds, Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said today.
Mr Draper confirmed the allocation with the NSW Health Minister, Morris Iemma, after the Premier’s announcement on the weekend of 800 more patient beds for NSW hospitals.
“Over the past 12 months I have raised the need for more intensive care beds at Tamworth Base with the Minister on several occasions and would have been very concerned had the region’s major referral hospital been left out of the Government’s plan to lift the capacity of NSW public hospitals,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the $1.5million investment in ICU beds in Tamworth was not only a welcome investment, it was critical as it would improve patient access to specialty care such as burns, spinal and transplant services.
“Strengthening the ICU’s capacity should also have an impact on the need to transfer patients from Tamworth to metropolitan hospitals.
Mr Draper said the availability of additional beds should also help shorten the waiting list for elective surgery as there would be less need to cancel elective surgery when post-operative ICU beds were needed.
Mr Draper said the funding was part of the Government’s $25million Critical Care Program to lift the capacity of intensive care units across NSW.
“I’m pleased the Minister has made provision in the program for Tamworth Base Hospital as it is the region’s major referral and teaching hospital.
“The announcement last week of an $800,000 upgrade to the Armidale Hospital’s intensive care unit as a result of lobbying efforts by the community and Northern Tablelands MP Richard Torbay was a great result and coupled with this investment means access to critical care services will greatly improve for the region’s communities.
