Media Releases, November 2009
For previous releases, click here
State Government must act swiftly to protect country families and business from proposed electricity price rise rip-off
Monday, November 30, 2009
The State Government must intervene urgently to protect pensioners and battling country families following reports electricity prices in NSW will soar by 60% over the next three years, according to Independent MP, Peter Draper.
Mr Draper said that according to some sources, an IPART report, due to be released on December 15, will result in country families and businesses bearing the brunt of proposed electricity increases, with rural power bills rising by just over 60 per cent by mid-2013.
“They are talking about increases of more than $400 to the average household power bill, however no average family could afford an increase like this, so it would be devastating for people on fixed or low incomes should the Government fail to act,” he said.
Mr Draper said he had little doubt that plans by the NSW Government to privatise sections of the electricity industry were driving factors in the massive increases being proposed.
“Electricity prices went through the roof in Victoria and South Australia when they privatised their electricity sectors, and much of this proposed increase is simply aimed at making the purchase of publicly owned businesses more attractive to the private sector. The people of NSW are sick and tired of seeing the farm sold off, particularly when they end up paying more as a result,” he said.
Mr Draper said the people of NSW are not only facing increases driven by a privatisation agenda, but also increases driven by a possible Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).
“The Federal authorities have forecast that an ETS will only add 7% to electricity prices in 2011/12, rising to 12 per cent the following year, however IPART anticipates that the impact will be closer to 30% by mid-2013.
“Many people are prepared to pay a bit more to help protect the environment, but few can afford to pay $400 or more a year extra for their electricity, plus increases on other goods and services. The NSW Government must ensure any rises, apart from those driven by environmental necessities, are kept to a minimum, or risk alienating positive community action on reducing carbon emissions,” Mr Draper said.
“Some are claiming most of the proposed rise is due to the extra costs of infrastructure following the State Government's recent investment to upgrade the network, but I dispute the need to pass on these costs which should be funded from the very healthy returns publicly owned electricity assets return to State coffers,” he said.
Mr Draper said the community needed to be wary that the leaking of the proposed changes wasn’t orchestrated to allow time to wear down public opposition to the proposal.
“People have the right to be cynical about the fact the IPART report will be released on December 15th, after the NSW Parliament has risen for the year. However, the Government is wrong if it thinks such bad news can be buried in the run up to Christmas and New Year. Anger about a possible 60% rise in electricity prices will only intensify amongst the residents of NSW,” Mr Draper concluded.
Draper tells Parliament NSW needs Population Policy to Improve Sydney and drive Regional Development
Monday, November 30, 2009
State MP, Peter Draper has told the NSW Parliament that it is the right time for New South Wales to invest more time and economic support into regional development and decentralisation, saying: “If, as it seems likely, we decide to place more people in the sardine tin we call Sydney, inevitably we will face many problems.
"Considering the rat race that Sydney has become and the obvious problems with infrastructure, particularly transport, it is now time to consider ways of easing Sydney's burden by promoting decentralisation and regional development.
"NSW urgently needs to develop a population policy that includes provincial New South Wales and which looks at alternatives. Planning New South Wales is projecting the population of the Sydney region to grow to five million by 2019 and six million by 2036, an increase of forty per cent on the 2006 population.
"Due to faster projected growth rates than the rest of NSW, this will see Sydney's share of the State's population rise from 62.8 per cent to 66 per cent in 2036. At the same time, inland regions are projected to experience a population decline for people aged under 60 between 2006 and 2036,” the Independent MP said.
Mr Draper provided the LA with some cold hard facts - Forty-six councils in New South Wales are losing population, and these are mainly located inland. Thirty-six are barely growing and fall short of the State average of 1.2 per cent growth.
While inland regional cities are growing, provincial centres and country communities are falling behind. He also informed the LA about the Evocities partnership, made up of seven New South Wales cities, Tamworth, Armidale, Dubbo, Orange, Albury, Bathurst and Wagga Wagga, advising that the name Evocities was chosen to stand for Cities of Energy, Vision and Opportunity.
“Evocities are taking a new direction in their quest to lure Sydneysiders inland, through a campaign designed to shift city dwellers to regional areas. They have secured $1.2 million in Federal funding, in addition to each council's annual contribution of $40,000 to drive the campaign, which is designed to combat the general lack of awareness of the existence of regional cities as vibrant, thriving locations that offer employment, financial rewards and increased lifestyle opportunities.
"Obviously, the seven councils believe much can be gained through this project, and I believe it is time for the State Government to become involved.” he said. “However, the State Government must also consider smaller shires like Gunnedah, Quirindi, Narrabri, Moree, Forbes, Cowra, Leeton, Tumut and Lithgow, all of which have much to offer but have seen their populations decline,” he continued.
Mr Draper told Parliament that New South Wales could learn a lot from the Victorians when it comes to regional development. “Five years ago they found that the most likely destination Melbournians moved to was Queensland. As a result, they commenced the ‘Make it happen in Provincial Victoria’ campaign.
"This campaign has been so successful that five years down the track the most likely move for a Melbournian now is to provincial Victoria. Whereas five years ago provincial Victoria was losing population rapidly, many areas are now growing as quickly as metropolitan Melbourne,” he said
“The best initiative New South Wales could implement is to develop a similar program to Victoria. Expertise in this area could be gained through the Foundation for Regional Development, whose chief executive officer, Peter Bailey, founded the very successful Country Week initiative.
"There is no doubt that we can give the people of New South Wales a better lifestyle if we invest in and develop provincial regions. It is time for the State Government to play a much bigger role in achieving those goals,” Mr Draper concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
Draper urges NSW Government to heed recommendations from Federal Select Committee on Agricultural and Related Industries Food Production in Australia
Monday, November 30, 2009
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has welcomed the second interim report of the Federal Parliament’s Select Committee on Agricultural and Related Industries Food production in Australia.
Mr Draper believes the NSW Government should heed the recommendations it contains, and act upon them.
“The committee recommends that the NSW Government investigate the total prohibition of mining under the floodplains of the Liverpool Plains, plus other areas of the state where similar conditions prevail, especially where evidence indicates that there will be damage to the floodplain or aquifers, or where it will bring the agricultural productive capacity of the floodplain into question,” Mr Draper said.
“This is a finding for common sense, and strongly vindicates the position that has been taken by the Caroona Coal Action Group in their David vs. Goliath fight to protect their prime agricultural land,” he said.
Mr Draper said there was a good cross section of political opinion represented on the Select Committee on Agricultural and Related Industries Food Production in Australia, with Senator Bill Heffernan (Liberal NSW), Senator Kerry O’Brien (Labor TAS), Senator Mary Jo Fisher (Liberal SA), Senator Christine Milne (Australian Greens TAS), Senator Fiona Nash (Nationals NSW) and Senator Glenn Sterle (Labor WA) making up the committee.
Mr Draper said he was heartened by the Committee’s findings that prime agricultural land needs to be protected from mining developments. He said their recommendation to protect the most productive agricultural land is an important step in maintaining efficient and quality food production systems, while ensuring the nation's food security. He believes this is an important step towards all Governments accepting the importance of protecting prime agricultural land and water systems.
“I fully agree with the Senate Committee that as the driest inhabited continent on earth, and with only an estimated 6 per cent of arable land across Australia, the preservation of these productive lands and finite water systems is clearly of national significance,” Mr Draper said.
“The bottom line of the interim report is that the Committee believes the floodplains of the Liverpool Plains should not be subject to mining activities. The Liverpool Plains with its climate, soils and unique groundwater make it one of the most fertile and drought-resistant agricultural areas in Australia,” he continued.
“The Senate Committee have verified that the concerns expressed all along by the Caroona Coal Action Group have been totally justified and it is now time for the new NSW Mining Minister, Peter Primrose, to act to protect the Liverpool Plain’s prime agricultural lands, floodplains and aquifers,” he said.
“Minister Primrose invited me to give him my overview of the issue last week, and I will again raise the issue this week following the Senate Committee’s latest report,” he concluded.
Draper supports Solar Bonus Scheme Bill 2009
Friday, November 27, 2009
A long time supporter of increasing renewable energy sources, Independent State MP Peter Draper, has spoken strongly in support of the Solar Bonus Scheme Bill 2009 in the NSW Parliament, but would like to see larger businesses able to access the scheme, plus an extension of the 7-year fixed term proposed by Government.
“The Solar Bonus Scheme is a gross feed-in tariff model. A feed-in tariff provides payments for electricity produced by small-scale distributed sources, such as solar photovoltaic systems, when their output is fed back into the electricity grid. I am encouraged that the scheme will be available to small electricity customers, especially households, plus some small businesses, schools and community organisations. However, I am concerned that an opportunity is being lost, as should larger businesses be able to access the scheme, they would be best positioned to contribute a great deal of electricity into the grid,” Mr Draper told Parliament.
“A standard home produces on average 4,500 kilograms of greenhouse gasses each year. By installing solar power, a home's gas emissions can be reduced to an average of 2,500 kilograms. Furthermore, each kilowatt-hour of electricity produced by coal-fired power stations uses 2½ litres of water. By installing a one-kilowatt home solar panel system, customers can save the environment about 3,750 litres of water every year,” he said.
Mr Draper said the scheme has a double benefit for customers, as their grid-connected electricity consumption will be significantly lower than without a solar system, because the household will consume a portion of its electricity direct from the solar source.
“When so many people are concerned about the effects of greenhouse gases, and with coal-fired power stations being among the greatest offenders, it makes common sense to pay households and other small customers for the surplus electricity generated from roof-top solar photovoltaic panel systems to export into the NSW electricity grid.
"The clean energy produced by solar panels does not contribute to climate change, and apart from producing the systems themselves, there is no subsequent pollution, noise or costly fuel bills,” he said.
Mr Draper said that at 60 ¢ per kilowatt-hour, the New South Wales solar bonus scheme is one of the most generous schemes from any State that is currently on offer, and should encourage more people to look at solar as an alternative power source.
“It will boost the use of renewable energy in New South Wales, and it should make solar power more affordable for people across New South Wales. I hope that it will stimulate the solar power industry, and importantly, encourage energy efficiency. I also hope it will drive efficiency, because the amount of power a customer returns to the grid will depend on how much energy is being consumed while the solar panels are generating power,” he said.
“It will encourage customers to maximise their solar bonus by improving the energy efficiency of their home so they can export more electricity to the grid, and it will provide an incentive for these customers to reduce standby power consumption by shifting some tasks to the evening, minimising the use of air-conditioners and other sensible activities,” he continued.
“Thought should be given to a longer term than the seven years proposed to encourage more people into the scheme, and to ensure that they can participate fully. I hope that the solar bonus scheme can be expanded in the future to include other technologies such as micro wind generation or community-owned solar farms,” he said.
“A lot of local people have shown interest in such a scheme with the price of electricity increasing significantly in our State, and it is certain to increase further in the future. The price of solar systems is reducing, so I hope more people can access these systems and take advantage of reduced energy bills, not to mention the benefits that will flow to the environment,” Mr Draper concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
Housing Minister assures Local MP – "Yes, we will consult with Tamworth Council" on proposed new Public Housing
Friday, November 27, 2009
Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has used Question Time in the NSW Parliament to seek further consultation for local Tamworth residents and Tamworth Regional Council (TRC) in regard to concerns about new public housing developments planned for the City.
Mr PETER DRAPER: My question is addressed to the Minister for Housing. Given strong community concerns in Tamworth regarding several proposed new public housing developments that seem completely out of character with surrounding properties, will the Minister and his department undertake appropriate consultation with Tamworth Regional Council and all affected residents before construction starts?
Mr DAVID BORGER: I thank the member for his very genuine interest in these matters. We have had a series of meetings around these issues and also around the Coledale estate. We are working to improve the situation for tenants on that estate. The simple answer is "Yes, we will consult with Tamworth council".
The SPEAKER: Order! The House will come to order.
Mr DAVID BORGER: We have been consulting the council. We will be delivering 145 units across 10 projects in Tamworth, injecting about $39 million into the region's economy. The council has been consulted and I will personally make sure that continues and that there is consultation on the particular projects in question. I very much respect the fact that the Independent members of Parliament have raised issues with me in a very mature way and we are working through those issues and they are not trying to undermine the spirit of the entire program. I might add that that is the completely opposite approach to that taken by members of the Opposition, who have tried to undermine the provision of 6,000 houses for very disadvantaged people across the State. I remember the comments of the member for Port Macquarie, who quite rightly pointed out the lies peddled by the shadow Minister for Planning regarding a particular project in Port Macquarie when the shadow Minister quite patently advised the community that the Government had approved the project when in fact the council had approved it.
The SPEAKER: Order! The House will come to order. The member for Barwon will come to order.
Mr DAVID BORGER: This Government cannot be blamed for what The Nationals got up to on the Hastings council. We cannot be blamed for The Nationals' problems in Hastings.
The SPEAKER: Order! The next member who behaves in such a fashion will be ejected from the House.
Mr DAVID BORGER: We will continue to work through the issues. The reality is that we will be delivering almost 6,000 homes for people who are doing it tough. We will build new homes for the elderly, for people with a disability, for young people, people sleeping rough and for families. The reality is that on average—and this is an important fact—our development applications take six months longer to be approved than private developments of a similar scale. Sadly, many objections to our development applications are not about the physical fabric—some are, but many are not. Many are about the people who live in the projects, which is not a valid ground for opposition or a head of consideration under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. It is not provided in any local environmental plan [LEP] in the State in any local government area, nor in any State environmental planning policy, that one can object to an application on the basis of a person.
The SPEAKER: Order! I call the member for Murrumbidgee to order for the third time.
Mr DAVID BORGER: I know that the member for Tamworth is aware of the issues and we will continue to consult with councils around those projects, and I will personally intervene on those issues.
Mr Draper said he was pleased that Minister Borger had made this commitment to local residents and TRC and thanked him for his commitment to further consultation.
He said although he was pleased with the Minister’s commitment he was disappointed the Nationals continued to disrupt proceedings in the House when an important issue for the Tamworth electorate was being discussed, particularly when earlier in the day he voted in support of an Opposition motion on this issue.
Mr BRAD HAZZARD (Wakehurst) [11.45 a.m.]: I move: That this House: (1) recognises the need for adequate and appropriate social housing, especially for the elderly and disabled; (2) notes the community's concern about proposed Department of Housing developments in the Maitland, Charlestown, Swansea, Lake Macquarie, Ryde, Port Macquarie and Kiama electorates which are being pushed through using the Federal Government's stimulus money; and (3) calls on the Government to consult each community and address their concerns before plans are finalised and development commences on the proposed public housing developments.
“The Nationals make a mockery of their claims to support regional communities when they carry on in this fashion,” Mr Draper concluded.
Impressive Work of the Friends of the Klori Travelling Stock Route to fight against Coolatai Grass highlighted in NSW Parliament
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has long supported increased efforts to stem the spread of Coolatai grass, and this week in the NSW Parliament he detailed the impressive work of the Friends of the Klori Travelling Stock Route, in eliminating the environmental scourge of Coolatai Grass along this corridor.
Originating in Africa and the Mediterranean regions, Coolatai grass, or Hyparrhenia hirta, was introduced into Australia to help stabilise soil. Coolatai grass has taken over large areas of the northwest of the State and is still spreading, causing serious ecological damage by displacing other desirable plant species.
Mr Draper told Parliament that the Somerton travelling stock route occupies land adjacent to the road linking Somerton and Manilla, approximately 40 kilometres west of Tamworth.
“Parts of this travelling stock route contain prime examples of grassy white box woodland vegetation. Approximately eight kilometres north of Somerton is a 75-hectare section of the travelling stock route, which is a species-rich area of trees, understorey and grassland.
"This small area contains over 200 different species of plants, plus many animal species, including some listed as vulnerable under both Commonwealth and State legislation,” he said.
Mr Draper pointed out that well over a decade ago, Rural Lands Protection Board Ranger Eric Dekkers, local environmentalist Colin Gyorgy, and Rural Lands Protection Board Assessor James Austin, all recognised the unique significance of the Klori section of this travelling stock route.
“It closely demonstrated the characteristics of grassy white box woodlands before modification from European agricultural practices. Today less than 0.01 per cent of the original grassy white box woodlands remain. The significant area of this travelling stock route was registered successfully as part of the National Estate on 21st November 2000, thanks to the work of Colin Gyorgy, along with research scientists Suzanne Prober and Kevin Thiele.
"The area has a good tree cover of white box, with white cypress in the north. The understorey comprises acacias, cassias, hopbushes and pittosporum. Perennial native grasses include kangaroo grass, and the grass cover is interspersed with a large number of native herbs, wildflowers and lilies, including chocolate lily and bulbine lily,” he said.
Mr Draper said members of the Tamworth branch of the Citizens Wildlife Corridors recognised that this travelling stock route was facing significant threats from overgrazing, damage from road works, plus an invasion of Coolatai grass.
“Judy Hunt, John Bundy, Pat Varley, Kate McLaren, Joan Overeem, Nell and Wayne Chaffey embarked on a program of protecting the site. The most significant aspect of their work was the eradication of large stands of Coolatai grass through the removal of seed heads and the spraying of large tussocks, as this pest had infiltrated the area.
"Other people, including John Tucker, John and Jan Hoskins, Toni McLeish from Community Solutions, Baids McIntyre and Phil Spark, have all joined the fight to protect this valuable yet vulnerable site through floral and ornithological surveys, maintenance works and educational activities.
"Students from the nearby Somerton Public School, Tamworth and Gunnedah TAFE campuses, plus Envirolearn courses, regularly access the site. It is also a research site for students from the University of New England,” he said.
“The Friends of Klori continues to monitor and protect the site, and it regularly applies for funding to eradicate weeds and install and maintain seed traps on roadsides. It also raises funds through gift card and calendar production and sales, including a brochure on Coolatai grass. I commend the Friends of the Klori Travelling Stock Route for the fantastic results that have been achieved,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Local MP, Peter Draper, joined the volunteers from the Friends of the Klori Travelling Stock Route to inspect their impressive work eradicating Coolatai Grass. Mr Draper highlighted their efforts in the NSW Parliament.
Tamworth and Gunnedah residents urged to share the Spirit of Christmas through the UnitingCare Christmas Appeal
Monday, November 23, 2009
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, was honoured to officially launch the 2009 UnitingCare Christmas Appeal at Target in Tamworth today.
“This is the sixth year in a row that I have attended the launch of the Uniting Care Christmas Appeal. It has become an important event on my calendar, and in many ways marks the beginning of the Christmas Season for me,” Mr Draper said.
“Residents of the Tamworth and Gunnedah areas can help to make Christmas Day more special for someone less fortunate than themselves by donating a gift to the appeal. Acts 20:35 says: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’. That is what the Apostle Paul wrote, and he attributed the saying to Jesus,” Mr Draper said.
"The UnitingCare Christmas Appeal plays an important role in helping less fortunate community members share in the joy of Christmas.
“The Appeal is a way to help others for whom Christmas may not be the happy time that most of us expect. You never know, you might make a lonely person's Festive season a lot brighter because of your Christmas gift. Christmas gifts are a way to spread peace and happiness at this sacred time,” he said.
Mr Draper congratulated UnitingCare in both Gunnedah and Tamworth for the opportunity their Christmas Appeal provides the general community. He said that community members who wanted to provide a gift can leave it under the Christmas tree at Target in both Tamworth and Gunnedah.
"People can bring in a gift they have made themselves, buy a gift from the store, or perhaps even purchase a gift certificate to brighten up Christmas for local people," Mr Draper said.
“When I heard the Tamworth CWA Choir singing the hymns of Christmas at today’s launch, and when listening to the Uniting Church’s Rev Bill Fischer speak about those for whom Christmas is a tough time, I realised how important it is for us all to share a little with those less fortunate.
“The Uniting Care Christmas Appeal provides that opportunity. It allows the generosity and goodwill of locals to be shared within our own community, and reminds us that Christmas is the time to come together, a time to put all differences aside and to reach out our hand to those who need help,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: TRC Mayor, James Treloar, Peter Draper MP, the Reverend Bill Fischer and Tamworth CWA President, Roberta Martin, at the launch of the UnitingCare Christmas Appeal. "This is a great way to brighten the Christmas of someone less fortunate than ourselves and that really is what Christmas is about," Mr Draper said.
Nominations Sought for Electorate Woman of the Year 2010
Monday, November 23, 2009
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, is asking the community to nominate local women who have made a significant contribution to the local district, for the annual Electorate Woman of the Year award for 2010.
“The NSW Woman of the Year Award is held as part of the celebrations for International Women’s Day and nominations are now open for the 2010 award, so I encourage constituents to put forward the names of women who make a difference in the community,” Mr Draper said
“International Women’s Day is an important time to recognise both the achievements of women and the leadership that women provide. Recognising the outstanding achievements of women not only provides role models for younger women, but also encourages the community to nominate women for honours,” he said.
Mr Draper said the criteria for nomination are:
• Significant achievement or contribution to the community which has resulted in progress for NSW women and/or girls
• Demonstrated ability to motivate other women and/or girls to challenge themselves and make their own contributions
• Demonstrated excellence and success in their field as a community leader, volunteer or above and beyond the expectations of their paid employment
• Nominee must be a female resident of NSW
• Nominee either lives in the local electorate, or has made a significant contribution to the electorate while living elsewhere in NSW.
Mr Draper said an Electorate of Tamworth, Woman of the Year would be named, and then an overall NSW Woman of the Year would be chosen from the 93 electorate winners, with an announcement to be made at the Premier’s Reception for International Women’s Day on 8th March 2010.
“I would like to receive suggestions from the local community of worthy nominees, so the Electorate Woman of the Year can be selected by Friday 15th January 2010. I urge local people to put their thinking caps on and nominate women for the award who have put in that extra yard for the community,” he said.
“Previous local winners have included former Gunnedah Mayor Gae Swain, Billabong Clubhouse stalwart Joan Wakeford, Preschool advocates Michelle Cherniayeff and Julia Cameron, Former Barraba and Tamworth Regional Councillor Shirley Close, plus former Tamworth West Public School Principal Anne Jacob.
“The Woman of the Year is an important recognition of outstanding service to the community, so I am looking forward to receiving nominations for the 2010 award,” Mr Draper concluded.
Thank a Paramedic Day Celebrations
Friday, November 20, 2009
THANK A PARAMEDIC DAY PRAYER
Almighty God, as we gather on this special day of joy and celebration, to remember with thankfulness all that makes life secure and valued. We hold ourselves ready to serve as people caring for people in the community. We give thanks for the skill and dedication of all the paramedics in the fields of their endeavour. We acknowledge the services of the staff who aid them in the fulfilment of their tasks and the many volunteers who give of their own time with vigilance and ability. We acknowledge with reverence all those who make these things possible and worth striving for. We pray for those who give us hope and encouragement in all our undertakings. We praise and thank you for all the gifts you have entrusted to us. May we use them to serve the community of New South Wales. The God of all humanity, give us grace and faith to trust, the impulse to serve and the courage to continue, now and always. In your Holy Name we Pray…Amen
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, was today honoured to attend Thank a Paramedic Day celebrations in Gunnedah, including the presentation of medals recognising commitment to service.
“The value of our paramedics is brought home when you consider every 28 seconds Ambulance receives a call for help from somewhere across New South Wales. Rain, hail or shine paramedics are there to respond and care for people in a medical emergency,” Mr Draper said.
“Last year in the New England sector of the Western Division, paramedics attended over 27,300 incidents. In Gunnedah alone they attended 1,689 incidents,” he said. “I was very pleased that Gunnedah was one of only four venues across the state to celebrate the contribution of paramedics, and it was an honour to share this special event with officers from around the New England/Northwest,” he said.
“Paramedics join the Ambulance service to make a difference in their community. It is a challenging and often confronting job, and that’s what makes our paramedics so special,” he continued. Mr Draper said Thank a Paramedic Day is held each year on the 20th November
“On this day we celebrate our paramedics and the medical care they provide to the people of NSW. It is an opportunity for those whose lives have been touched by one of the thousands of dedicated paramedics to say ‘thanks’. So often in a time of crisis, people wish they had been able to express their appreciation, but often the moment passes and the paramedics have moved on to their next job,” he said.
“Thank a Paramedic Day is also an opportunity for paramedics to reflect upon the important and valuable role they have within our society. The work of a paramedic often involves caring for the most disadvantaged members of the community, and paramedics often witness horrific trauma. Our paramedics have genuine passion and commitment to maintaining high standards of care for the community,” he continued.
“I was honoured to present the National Medal for Service to - (15 years service) David Moore (Tenterfield), First Clasp, National Medal (25 years service), and Paul Rankin (Gunnedah - not able to attend), while NSW Ambulance Western Divisional Manager Mark Beesley presented the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal for 10 years service to Jesse Lions (Inverell), Luis Luzuriaga (Gunnedah), Gary Revell (Gunnedah) and Anthony Zwegers (Tamworth), the First Clasp, Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (20 years service) Peter Higgins (Inverell), and the Third Clasp, Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (40 years service) Rodney Blackburn (Bingara). “I congratulate the award recipients, and thank all paramedics for the wonderful role they play in our community,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: State MP, Peter Draper, was honoured to attend Thank a Paramedic Day celebrations and to thank them for the vital role they play in our community.
Inquiries Seeking Input on Communication Needs in Country Areas
Friday, November 20, 2009
Considering the importance that many constituents place upon telecommunications, and the need for country people and businesses to receive services comparable with metropolitan standards, the Independent State MP Peter Draper, is urging interested parties to contribute to two State Parliament inquiries currently seeking submissions.
The Are You Connected? - Telecommunications Availability in Rural and Regional Communities (Inquiry) and the Transforming Life Outside Cities: the Potential of Broadband Services (Inquiry) are both receiving submissions up until Friday 26th February 2010.
Mr Draper said the Are You Connected? - Telecommunications Availability in Rural and Regional Communities (Inquiry) is examining the availability of telecommunications, including broadband, plus other technology services in rural and regional communities with a particular focus on: (a) Differences between advertised service availability and consumer experiences of service levels (b) Gaps in service provision in particular regions and (c) Options for improving service availability.
He said the Transforming Life Outside Cities: the Potential of Broadband Services (Inquiry) is conducting an inquiry into the benefits and opportunities for rural and regional communities of having access to telecommunications, including broadband, and other technology services with a particular focus on: (a) improving government services and efficiency in service delivery, including in the areas of education, health and justice services (b) improving the level of engagement of rural and regional communities in public life through new technologies (c) investigating the potential economic benefits from new technology on commercial and business opportunities in rural and regional communities.
“Regional and rural communities have as much if not more need for quick, reliable communications, and for many small businesses it has a serious impact upon their ability to function and compete effectively,” Mr Draper said
“Further information about the Are You Connected? - Telecommunications Availability in Rural and Regional Communities (Inquiry) and the Transforming Life Outside Cities: the Potential of Broadband Services (Inquiry) is available by phoning (02) 9230 3438 or at email: broadband@parliament.nsw.gov.au,” he said.
“This is an issue of huge importance affecting many sectors within rural and regional communities across our state, so I urge interested parties to contribute to the investigations,” Mr Draper concluded.
Doreen Goddard and Dorothy Lockwood – Dedication Recognised with Premier’s Community Service Award
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Local State MP, Peter Draper, was today honoured to present a Premier’s Community Service Award to both Doreen Goddard and Dorothy Lockwood.
“Doreen and Dot are very worthy recipients of this award, as between them they have contributed over 100 years of priceless dedication to the local community through their varied roles,” Mr Draper said.
“This is a very prestigious award, reflected in the fact each Electorate in NSW is entitled to nominate just two people per year,” he said.
According to Mr Draper, The Premier’s Community Service Award bestows recognition upon people who have substantially contributed to improving the quality of life in their communities that is beyond what is expected in their usual occupation.
“A large number of people work tirelessly for their local communities across a broad range of activities, including emergency relief plus varied voluntary community services,” Mr Draper said.
“There are many unsung heroes, however some of the people who contribute unselfishly to their community become role models for our youth, by sharing their talent and commitment to sport, social or cultural pursuits. These extraordinary people contribute to the health and well being of this State, and give us all a reason to feel proud,” he said.
“On behalf of the wider community, I thank Doreen and Dot for their dedication over so many years, and congratulate them on receiving The Premier’s Community Service Award,” Mr Draper concluded.
RECIPIENT DETAILS...
Doreen Goddard moved to the region 34 years ago. Doreen first joined the CWA Campbelltown Branch in 1955. She transferred to the Tamworth branch when she settled at Winton. In 1993 Doreen was instrumental in establishing the CWA branch at Somerton and is currently secretary of that branch. In recognition of her 54 years service Doreen is a CWA Life Member. In addition Doreen is President of the Friends of Tamworth Regional Botanical Gardens, has been involved with the Horticultural Section of Tamworth Show for 28 years and has handed out gardening tips for nearly as long through a weekly gardening programme on 2TM. Doreen has been involved with Tidy Towns since its inception, and is currently secretary of the Tamworth branch. Doreen is also secretary of the Peel Retired Police Association.
Dorothy Lockwood has been involved with the sport of netball for more than fifty five years. Dot’s involvement commenced while she was at Teachers College in Armidale, in what was then known as women’s basketball. After gaining a teaching position at Westdale Public School, Dot organised a netball competition for primary school girls. In the mid 1960s she was asked to merge that competition with the Tamworth Netball Association, and Dot played a major part in the sport ever since. Dot is currently President of the Tamworth Netball Association, a role she has held at various times for twenty years. She holds a National “B” Grade Umpiring badge plus coaching certificate, and has umpired at NSW State Championships, as well as selecting and coaching teams for the NSW State and State Age Championships. NSW Netball awarded Dot the Anne Clark Service Award in 1986, the highest award it can bestow upon a member. Dot has also received a NSW Netball Award for more than 55 years service as a volunteer, and the Ken McKenzie Award, plus Life Membership of Tamworth Netball Association.
Photo: Doreen Goddard (left) and Dorothy Lockwood are presented with their Premier’s Community Service Award by Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper.
Join Up, to Discover Respect for Self, Others and School
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
“Teachers, members of staff, parents and students see respect as the key value … Respect is the corner stone, but the key to this is not telling people they have to respect, it is teaching them what respect is, and what it looks like” - Tamworth South Public School Principal, Chris Shaw, at launch of PBL journey.
Local State MP, Peter Draper, rose proudly in the NSW Parliament to say: “A number of people have commented on the lapel badge I am wearing today, as it closely resembles the Parliamentary badge.
"On the badge are the words Respect—for self, school and others. I was honoured to receive this badge from Tamworth South Public School Principal Chris Shaw, along with a boarding pass inviting me to be part of his school's new Positive Behaviour for Learning program.
"On the boarding pass is written: Special Boarding Pass—Welcome aboard, as we commence our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) journey. Join us as we discover Respect for Self, Others and School in our Pursuit of Personal Excellence."
Mr Draper told Parliament of his experience attending the Tamworth South Public School’s Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) launch, and how it is an internationally recognised framework for organising a school's approach to promoting academic excellence, plus social skills competence.
He said it was first piloted at Tamworth High School in 2008, and since then 14 schools have undertaken the training to implement this program across the New England region. Eight of the 10 education regions across the State are also taking up this approach to achieving academic excellence and social competence.
He told Parliament the Principal of Tamworth South Public School, Chris Shaw had summed up the importance of the PBL program when launching it on November 4 saying: “PBL is the most exciting educational initiative I have ever been involved in. It is about making sure that everyone in the school community knows and understands the same set of expectations about learning and behaviour.
"It is about shared understanding of what schools stand for. In PBL schools social skills and expectations are taught in exactly the same way as we teach literacy, numeracy and all other curriculum. Everyone is taught what the expectations are, so no one is left to guess what they have to do. Teachers, members of staff, parents and students see respect as the key value.
"When all groups were surveyed, respect was the number one value identified by all groups. If we have respect, all other values fall into line. Respect is the corner stone, but the key to this is not telling people they have to respect, it is teaching them what respect is, and what it looks like."
“Chris Shaw told me that it is possible to address vandalism, violence, graffiti and other problems in society, and it starts with programs like this in our schools,” Mr Draper said.
“PBL refers to a system of school-wide processes and individualised instruction designed to prevent and decrease problem behaviour, and to maintain appropriate behaviour. It is not a model with a prescribed set of practices, rather it is a team-based process designed to address the unique needs of individual schools,” he said.
Mr Draper pointed out to the Parliament that General Purpose Standing Committee No. 2 of the upper House had recently tabled a comprehensive report entitled Bullying of Children and Young People, which stated that in order to optimise a school's ability to create a safe and supportive school environment, the best method is to use a whole of school approach.
“According to Donna Cross, Professor of Child and Adolescent Health at Edith Cowan University in Western Australia and Director of the Child Health Promotion Research Centre: 'whole school interventions incorporate bullying prevention into a school's policy, ethos and curriculum, and aim to influence the attitudes of everyone in the school community, including school staff and parents.'," he said.
“The Vinson report indicated that addressing low level disruptive, disrespectful and aggressive student behaviour is one of the greatest demands on a teacher's time, and one of the most consistent interruptions to learning time in the classroom.
"Schools like Tamworth South Public are to be commended for addressing this issue by introducing the PBL journey. I was honoured to be able to share the experience with Chris, the students, the wonderful teachers, the parents and the carers at Tamworth South Public. I highly commend this program, because it is delivering outstanding results,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo (back left to right): Peter Draper, Kate Bricknell - Project Officer, Positive Learning Initiatives, Chris Shaw - Principal, Ruythe Dufty - School Education Director New England South, Don Willis Tamworth South P & C President; (front): Megan Su, Peter McDonagh - Tamworth South Vice Captains cut the cake to launch the PBL journey for the school.
Click here for Hansard.
Draper Joins Community to Welcome Dr George to Tamworth Hospital
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Local MP, Peter Draper, believes everyone in the region will join with him in warmly welcoming Dr Mathew George as he takes up the role of full-time resident medical oncologist at Tamworth Hospital.
“On behalf of the entire community I congratulate Hunter New England Health (HNEH) for recruiting Dr George to this critical position,” Mr Draper said.
“There is a severe shortage of medical specialists across a range of disciplines Australia wide, making it very difficult to recruit medical specialists of Dr George’s calibre to country areas in particular.”
“Competition between health authorities and hospitals is very keen, meaning HNEH have had to work hard to achieve this outcome,” he said.
Mr Draper said he had made numerous representations on behalf of residents from around the wider region concerned about continuity of care while the search for a full time resident specialist was undertaken.
“Medical specialist with the appropriate skills have been in short supply for far too long, however it will still take a number of years before increased trainee doctor numbers start to move into the system,” he said.
“Dr George brings valuable experience from his time at Darwin Hospital that will be a greatly welcomed addition to the oncology service provided through Tamworth Hospital,” he continued.
Mr Draper said despite shortages of doctor and other front line medical staff, and in addition to other problems that have affected health provision across NSW as a whole, the local health service had been recognized as one of the best in the state at the recent 2009 NSW Health Awards.
“Hunter New England Health was recognized as the state’s leading Area Health Service, winning ten categories,” he said.
“A number of local services were recognized for their outstanding performance, including Tamworth Hospital,” he added.
Mr Draper said Tamworth Hospital performed particularly well at the awards, including off-stretcher waiting time within 30 minute benchmark; emergency admission, patients transferred to an inpatient bed within the 8 hour benchmark time; elective surgery patients admitted within Category 1 (30 day) and Category 3 (365 day) benchmarks; a low rate of unplanned readmissions; and high ratings of care received.
“In welcoming Dr George to Tamworth I can assure him he is joining a team of dedicated professionals who work hard to provide a first class service through a major regional hub, and he joins a community that is passionate about achieving the best services possible, while being prepared to fight to achieve those goals,” Mr Draper concluded.
Gunnedah Flight Training Academy
Local MP, Peter Draper, was very impressed with the incredibly quiet operational capacity of Gunnedah Flight Training Academy's Diamond DA20 aircraft.
Mr Draper is pictured with Gunnedah Deputy Mayor, Colleen Fuller, Chairman of Strategic Aviation Solutions, Neil Hansford, and Gunnedah Mayor, Adam Marshall, during an inspection of the Academy's aircraft.
"Having worked in the aviation industry, I was very impressed with the capability of the Academy's aircraft. This aircraft is used by the American Defence Force, and is very efficient and quiet.
"I am pleased to see an excellent relationship developing between Gunnedah and the Flight Training Academy, with this development turning into a win-win situation for both the Gunnedah district and for the academy
"Gunnedah is a well serviced, pro active town that will make a great base for operations, and will build on the district's strong aviation base," Mr Draper said.
Unique Opportunity to Separate Agriculture from Mining Portfolio
Monday, November 16, 2009
“Strengthened powers for NSW Premier Rees to choose his Cabinet, provides a unique opportunity to separate the Primary Industries & Mineral Resources portfolios,” according to Independent State MP, Peter Draper.
“For far to long the agricultural sector has lacked a dedicated minister who can play devil’s advocate on their behalf in cabinet,” he said.
“The lack of support in Cabinet for the prime agricultural lands of the Liverpool Plains, and the failure of the Government to financially support an essential water study for the Namoi basin, are prime examples of what a dedicated Minister should be fighting for,” Mr Draper said.
“To date, multiple requests to successive Premiers to separate the two portfolios have fallen on deaf ears, however this Cabinet reshuffle provides Premier Rees with an opportunity to deliver a clear message to rural and regional NSW that he is listening to their concerns,” he said.
Mr Draper said many landholders had voiced their lack of confidence in a process where one minister is juggling the interests of both farmers and miners.
“I reiterate the need for a stand alone Minister for Primary Industries, who along with the Ministers for Water and the Environment, can strongly represent rural and regional communities in cabinet on important issues,” he said.
Mr Draper said he understood why large sections of the community believe mining companies will always be advantaged, given the multi-millions of dollars that flow to State Government coffers from exploration leases and coal royalties, plus the donations they make to all the major political parties.
“If the Premier were to separate the portfolios he would signal that he too understands these concerns,” he said.
Mr Draper said he hoped the Premier’s new powers would give him the authority to overcome the ongoing instability that had plagued Government in NSW for more than twelve months, as he believed that the interests of the people must be put before individual political machinations.
“Most importantly, if the Government is truly working in the interests of the people of NSW it will put pressure on the Opposition to also perform. Sadly, NSW has suffered from both weak Government and weak Opposition for far too long, so the community rightly expects an improvement in performance all round,” he said.
“Until the portfolios of Primary Industry and Mineral Resources are separated, the perception remains that a conflict of interest will continue, so the Premier now has a perfect opportunity to address these community concerns.”
“Hopefully the Premier can bring positive change to the political process in NSW, something that is desperately needed in this state,” Mr Draper concluded.
Last regular Freight Train to Tamworth is a sad indictment of flawed transport policy
Friday, November 13, 2009
State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, said the running of the last regular freight train to Tamworth today was a sad indictment of years of flawed transport policy.
“It is unbelievable that as congestion on highways increases and the world is concentrated on environmental concerns, regular movement of freight by rail to a major city like Tamworth has been removed from rail,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said that one ex rail employee, who had worked on the railway at West Tamworth had told him that when he started work in the mid 1980s there were about 6 freight trains a day to Tamworth.
“I have a ‘train consist form’ for a freight train arriving in Tamworth back in 1998 that consisted of 28 wagons, including 12 fuel tankers, 9 wagons of superphosphate bound for Dumaresq, a couple of cement wagons for Nemingha, plus wagons to Fielders Mill and Potaway in Tamworth.”
“Today’s last regular freight consisted of just 10 wagons of fuel,” Mr Draper said.
“That sad decline in the fortunes of rail freight has now seen all of that traffic transferred to road transport. It is a disgusting state of affairs,” he said.
Mr Draper said that an ex employee had told him about 30 million litres of fuel a year was railed to Tamworth and Dubbo.
“Now all of this fuel is on the roads, competing with other motorists and of course increasing safety risks,” he said.
“This irresponsible decision to remove a bulk, hazardous commodity from rail forces more trucks onto our roads at a time when projections indicate by the year 2020 the volume of road freight will more than double.”
“Again I ask, when will this Government recognise that rail is the most carbon-efficient method for moving freight, and for a multitude of environmental and social reasons including road safety, make a decision to reverse the continued decline of most rail services apart from coal haulage?” Mr Draper said.
“Removal of fuel transport from rail, and the loss of other rail movement to road is a terrible decision at a time when we desperately need to rejuvenate rail transport in NSW,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Locos 8137, X48 and X51 shunt the last regular freight train across the Old Gunnedah Road level crossing on #1525 freight. While motorists on Old Gunnedah Road will no longer have to stop for trains shunting the oil siding, motorists on the New England Highway will have to contend with an increase in fuel tankers. "This irresponsible decision to remove a bulk, hazardous commodity from rail forces more trucks onto our roads at a time when projections indicate by the year 2020 the volume of road freight will more than double. Again I ask, when will this Government recognise that rail is the most carbon-efficient method for moving freight, and for a multitude of environmental and social reasons including road safety, make a decision to reverse the continued decline of most rail services apart from coal haulage?” Mr Draper said.
Deadline for Peel Water Sharing Plan submissions extended to Friday 18th December
Friday, November 13, 2009
Tamworth MP Peter Draper has welcomed advice from NSW Water Minister Phil Costa today that he has agreed to extend the consultation period for water users to respond to the draft Peel Water Sharing Plan. Mr Draper had approached the Minister on behalf local water users and Tamworth Regional Council, seeking an extension to the November 16 deadline.
The Minister has advised Mr Draper that the public consultation period has been extended, with submissions now due by Friday 18th December 2009.
Mr Costa has also confirmed to Mr Draper that this extension will not impact upon the Commonwealth’s commitment to the augmentation of Chaffey Dam.
Mr Draper said the Minister had reiterated that there is a clear need to implement the Peel Valley water-sharing plan expeditiously, and the extension of the consultation period will be used to continue productive discussions between water users and the Office of Water.
“Minister Costa has indicated that the Office of Water will provide ongoing working drafts of the plan to members of the Peel Advisory Group for discussion and that this will be the process towards finalising the plan,” Mr Draper said.
“The Minister told me that unfortunately, given the timeframes it would not be possible to redraft the plan and conduct another open consultation period between now and December 18,” he said.
“Individuals can speak directly to the Senior Water Planner, Daniel Connor NSW Office of Water on 6773 5294, and further concerns should be discussed with the Peel Valley Water Users Association, Cockburn Water Users Association or Namoi Water. I have previously pointed out that unity is strength, and the best outcomes will result from individuals addressing their concerns and suggestions through their Water Associations.”
“I urge all interested parties to discuss issues with their Association and provide their written submission by the extended deadline, Friday 18th December,” Mr Draper concluded.
The draft plan is available online at www.water.nsw.gov.au or from the NSW Office of Water and Namoi Catchment Management Authority Tamworth office located at: Level 3, 155-157 Marius Street, Tamworth, also, from Peter Draper’s office, 13 Fitzroy Street, Tamworth.
Passenger Transport Amendment (Taxi Licensing) Bill 2009
Friday, November 13, 2009
State MP, Peter Draper, has welcomed moves by the NSW Opposition to refer the Passenger Transport Amendment (Taxi Licensing) Bill 2009, to General Purpose Standing Committee No. 4 in the Upper House, for it to examine any impacts upon current taxi plate holders, and make relevant suggestions in that regard. The Legislation has already passed through the Legislative Assembly.
“Most Members of Parliament along with the taxi industry itself support reform of the industry, however there are significant concerns about possible impacts of the bill, and possible unintended consequences on current long-term licence holders, so I am pleased an Upper House inquiry will examine these issues,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said the object of the Bill is to amend the Passenger Transport Act 1990 (the Principal
Act) as follows: (a) to provide for non-transferrable and renewable taxi-cab licences having terms
of 12 months (annual licences), with such licences to be phased in, (b) to recognise, and standardise provisions applying to, the category of existing taxi-cab licences (nexus licences) associated with licences for wheelchair
accessible taxis (paired licences), (c) to validate certain existing operative taxi-cab licences issued before the
commencement of the Principal Act and to validate previous transactions relating to them, (d) to make other provision of a savings and transitional nature.
“We are well served by our taxi industry in Tamworth, and I am aware that people who in many instances have spent their life savings buying plates, are now very worried about the ramifications of this bill. Everybody wants decreased taxi waiting times and more reliability, and the bill, as stated, aims to deliver a gradual and sustainable fleet growth without impacting upon licence holders. But there are no details as to what will actually happen,” Mr Draper told Parliament.
Mr Draper said Brian O’Sullivan from Tamworth Taxis and Secretary of the N.S.W. Country Taxi Operators Association had told him there is no doubt the release of more plates in Country NSW would reduce existing plate values for two reasons:
- The issue of additional plates into a Country Town such as Tamworth that is NOT under cabbed would effectively reduce the income to the existing plate holders, thus reducing the annual turnover which is one of the main indicators of market value.
- The release of plates at a low lease fee would create an atmosphere where no one would want to buy a Taxi at the going market price, when they could get one from the Govt. for a low lease fee. This would again force the market value of existing plates down.
“Why would anyone want to buy a Taxi under those circumstances, when they can get plates on a low lease fee from the Government?” Mr Draper asked.
Mr Draper said Tamworth currently has 25 Taxis including 5 Wheelchair Taxis.
“Tamworth is not under cabbed. This is evidenced by the roster system that allocates a certain number of taxi’s on duty every day and night, because it is not economical for every taxi to be working at the one time during most of the week. All Taxis are rostered on during weekend nights, and also during special event days and nights,” he said.
“We in Tamworth are reliant on taxis for late-night transport. There is no transport of note in country communities, and taxis are critical in getting people home late in the evening. We would all like more transport options in country communities, however we must ensure that we do not jeopardise the livelihood of people who have invested in businesses and who are doing a great job,” Mr Draper told Parliament.
“Small business is very much the lifeblood of country communities. We are fortunate in Tamworth to have a very vibrant small business community, which must be protected. While I support the intent of the bill, I look forward very much to seeing the report that comes out of the upper House inquiry,” Mr Draper concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
State Support for Local Domestic Violence Campaign – Everyone has a Role to Play
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Local MP, Peter Draper, today announced State funding for both the Gunnedah and Tamworth Local Domestic Violence Committees in support of their campaigns to promote White Ribbon Day, and the 16 Days of Activism to Stop Violence Against Women.
Mr Draper said White Ribbon Day, to be held on the 25 November, and the 16 Days campaign from the 25 November to the10 December, both aim to raise community awareness that violence against women is illegal, unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
“Despite the strong message that domestic violence is unacceptable, this behaviour continues to affect far too many people. I encourage everyone in the community to take part in these important events, but more importantly to say enough is enough. All community members have a role to play in getting this message through, ” Mr Draper said.
“Alarmingly, around one third of Australian women will be physically assaulted, while one in five will be sexually assaulted over their lifetime,” he said.
Mr Draper said that in addition to the human costs, this sort of violence is estimated to cost the NSW economy $2.8 billion each year.
“Domestic violence is the most reported crime in NSW, and affects people from all socio-economic backgrounds. Not only are adults victims, far too many children are affected, with one third (94,166) of all reports to the Community Services Helpline in 2007/08 regarding children at risk of harm involving domestic violence,” he said.
Mr Draper said the Gunnedah Local Domestic Violence Committee would use the funds to provide ongoing events highlighting the problem of domestic violence, plus providing promotional materials to increase awareness. They will also support White Ribbon Day, the 16 Days campaign plus Reclaim the Night; with resources stalls and a sausage sizzle to increase community awareness.
He said the Tamworth Local Domestic Violence Committee were supplying drink coasters that promote awareness to licensed premises around the Tamworth Region, and producing promotional material for other events held throughout the year. Their annual White Ribbon Masquerade Ball will be held at Blazes Auditorium on Saturday 21st November - with tickets now available through Wests.
Mr Draper said that the Minister for Women, Linda Burney, had committed $59,000 to fund 59 Local Domestic Violence Committees across NSW so they could develop such projects.
“All of these projects will send a powerful signal to local communities across the state that violence against women or children is intolerable, inexcusable and illegal. Everyone has a responsibility to get that message out loud and clear,” Mr Draper concluded.
Common Sense prevails with withdrawal of contentious Rail Bill, but the real challenge is to rejuvenate rural & regional rail transport
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has applauded the Government’s decision to withdraw the Transport Administration Amendment (Rail Trails) Bill. Mr Draper said that once again the Government had bowed to public pressure, but says he believed that saving the many abandoned rail corridors must be seen as only a small part of the need to rejuvenate rail transport in NSW.
“The slow and painful closure of grain lines continues, while at the same time the last fuel train runs into Tamworth this Friday, and I understand that fuel trains to Queanbeyan and Dubbo are also ceasing. This will force more trucks onto our roads at a time when projections indicate by the year 2020 the volume of road freight will more than double. When will this Government recognise that rail is the most carbon-efficient method for moving freight, and for a multitude of environmental and social reasons including road safety, make a decision to reverse the continued decline of most rail services apart from coal haulage?” Mr Draper asked.
“Passenger Train provision to rural and regional NSW also leaves a lot to be desired. Recent data presented to the Victorian Parliament confirms that regional Victoria has entered another golden era of rail. V/Line train patronage is up 9.5 per cent in 2008-09, the third consecutive year of record growth. Combined train and coach patronage growth was 10 per cent in 2008-09, or an incredible 82 per cent over the past four years, so it should be sending a clear message to our Government that it is time for rejuvenation in NSW right now,” he said.
Mr Draper said there is a need to examine other ways to improve rail transport and maintenance of lines.
“Rail in rural and regional Canada has much in common with NSW. Prior to the 1996 Canada Transportation Act, most railways were owned by the two major Class 1 operators. If abandonment was approved, the railway owner inevitably dismantled the line without any opportunity for others to gain ownership, however the 1996 Act made it possible for such railways to be purchased by others. The Act now requires the owner to prepare a three year abandonment plan, which includes advertising the railway for commercial sale. If no commercial buyer appeared, the railway is offered to local government for net salvage value. If local government doesn’t take over the line, only then can it be abandoned, however the line operator must pay compensation at a rate of $30,000 per mile. Most railways marked for abandonment in Canada are now taken up by commercial or local organizations, leading to a large increase of shortline railway track length. In Saskatchewan, shortline railway track length grew from less than 50 miles in 1996, to 885 miles in 2006. What can we learn from this?” he said.
“NSW imported Phillip Shirley to head up the Public Transport Commission in 1972. This followed his involvement with the infamous Beeching era of rail closures in the UK. In a carbon copy of the UK disaster Mr Shirley’s ruthless cost-cutting approach led to heated criticism from the public and the State Opposition, to the point where Mr Shirley retired early from the post during 1975, but the damage was already done. Like the UK, closures in NSW failed in their main purpose of trying to restore the railways to profitability, with the promised savings failing to materialise. The shortfall arose mainly because the branch lines acted as feeders to the main lines and this feeder traffic was lost when the branches closed. This in turn meant less traffic and less income for the increasingly vulnerable main lines. This lesson is being learnt around the world, and in many places lines are being reopened,” he contined.
“In northern NSW the Casino to Murwillumbah line is currently closed and under threat, yet aross the border the Queensland Government had to rebuilt a line to the Gold Coast that was ripped up in the 1960’s.”
“It is time to rejuvenate rail in NSW. Pacific National and QueenslandRail are reaping the profits from coal haulage that would once have flowed to the New South Wales Railways. These players are the major beneficiaries from millions of dollars of tax payers money being spent on rail infrastructure, yet they show scant regard for other traffic, and have no interest in the social benefits rail can offer. Incentives to encourage smaller players to be part of a bigger rail task, particularly on rural and regional lines, are long overdue,” Mr Draper concluded.
MPs join Dalwood Protestors at Parliament House rally
Independent State Members for Tamworth and Dubbo, Peter Draper (back) and Dawn Fardell (far right) with Michelle Bolte (mum), Kate Bolte (daughter) and Patrick Bolte, with Thomas Spears, the son of Tiffany Spears (the chief Hurstone Agricultural High School campaigner), protesting at threats to services provided through the Dalwood Assessment Centre, outside NSW Parliament House.
Michelle Bolte from Coonabarabran is a key leader in the protest against the proposed Dalwood closure. Michelle dumped a wheelbarrow load of books, at the entrance to Parliament House, sending the message that kids like Kate, who is a current student at Dalwood, won't need these books in future as they will not be able to read if Dalwood's critical services are axed.
Increasing numbers call for more controls over fees charged by Financial Institutions
Thursday, November 12, 2009
State MP, Peter Draper, has alerted the NSW Legislative Assembly to continuing community concerns over fees charged by financial institutions.
The Independent MP for Tamworth asked the House to note:
- The growing number of local residents coming to my electorate office to complain about bank fees
- That one local credit union is charging $1.50 for customers to check their balance to ensure that pays have been processed
- The Federal Government guaranteed the funds of financial institutions during the global credit crisis
- The record profits now being generated by banks, and
- Calls on the State Government to request stronger Federal control over money grabs by financial institutions
Mr Draper said that despite some institutions reducing fees in certain areas over the past 12 months, income from fees still amounted to many billions of dollars a year.
“Total domestic fee income of financial institutions covered by The Reserve Bank’s annual bank fee survey, released in May 2009, rose by 8 per cent in 2008 to $11.6 billion, with fee income from businesses and households growing at a similar rate.”
“Banks’ fee income from businesses increased by 8 per cent in 2008 to $6.7 billion, while fee income from households increased by 8 per cent in 2008 to $4.9 billion,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said other findings in the Reserve Bank Fee Survey showed income from housing loans increased by 5 per cent in 2008, fee income from personal loans rose by 9 per cent while Credit card fee income increased by 11 per cent in 2008.
“Within the total, account servicing fees rose by 7 per cent, transaction fees, such as cash advance fees, rose by 14 per cent, and other fees, which are mainly exception fees, increased by 14 per cent. In 2008, exception fees totalled $1.2 billion, around 10 per cent of banks’ total fee income. Around 83 per cent of exception fees were levied on households, mainly on their deposit and credit card accounts. Two-thirds of businesses’ exception fees were levied on their deposit accounts.”
“Fee income on deposits rose by 7 per cent, a little faster than the 5 per cent increase recorded in 2007,” he said.
Mr Draper said that unfortunately in many instances fees hurt those in our community least able to pay.
“Many years ago, when electronic payment of wages was introduced, many of today’s fees hadn’t been dreamed up, and it was unacceptable that someone should have to pay simply to see if their pay is in,” he said.
“It is time the States put more pressure on the Federal Government to control the gouging that has taken place and to protect families and small business from the excesses. In the meantime I encourage consumers to shop around and find the type of account that best suits their particular needs,” Mr Draper concluded.
Nundle’s proactive community recognised in State Parliament
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Local State MP, Peter Draper, has congratulated the proactive community of Nundle for its wonderful community spirit, during a speech to the NSW Parliament yesterday. He also highlighted Nundle’s win in the category for towns with a population under 350 at the recent Tidy Towns Awards in Tamworth. Mr Draper told Parliament that Nundle has about 300 people living in the township, with a district population of some 1,200 and recently had a starring role on the television program Getaway.
“When one drives across the new bridge into town, the parks and other community assets, roads and verges are always sparkling and immaculate, and the community often expresses gratitude for the wonderful efforts of Billy Smith, who works for council. Billy certainly loves his town,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper told the Parliament that he had recently presented Nundle Public School Principal, Ian Worley, with a certificate recognising $2,500 in funding from the New South Wales Environmental Trust to help the school develop an innovative project—Garden to Kitchen to Garden Again. He said that the money will allow Nundle Public School to develop an edible community kitchen garden using sustainable techniques, teaching students about the positive impacts that growing their own produce has on the environment, while they learn to value fresh, home-grown food.
Upon leaving the school, Mr Draper joined Nundle Community Development Committee [CDC] member Megan Trousdale to view Nundle's latest pride and joy, the redeveloped Captain Cook Park.
“This $110,000 playground development opened in late September, in time for the school holidays, and it provides an exciting new public space that re-creates the heritage of Nundle's wool history within a wonderland of kids' play equipment,” he said.
Mr Draper congratulated the community groups, businesses and individuals who initially donated $35,000 towards the project and said Tamworth Regional Council obtained a $70,000 Federal Government stimulus package grant, allowing the vision to become a reality.
“Megan explained that the Nundle community not only wanted an extraordinary playground for the local children, but also one with the pulling power to attract families from Tamworth and surrounds. This community is highly entrepreneurial, and is always investigating opportunities that benefit the local economy, including the annual Nundle Chinese Go For Gold Festival held every Easter. Instead of buying an off-the-shelf playground, the CDC commissioned Fiona Robbe, and Megan told me that after visiting Nundle and Hanging Rock, Fiona quickly latched on to the vintage machinery at the woollen mill, and the wool-growing heritage of the area, resulting in the fleece-to-fashion theme that beautifully complements the vibrant town environment,” he said.
“The Nundle Community Development Committee's next project is to replace the faulty barbecue and picnic shelters at the park, and I am sure that any State Government assistance would be greatly welcomed by this proactive town. Nundle is a terrific example of what a small community can accomplish by working together. If only every small town had the same drive and determination to continually improve,” Mr Draper concluded.
In response to Mr Draper’s speech, Parliamentary Secretary Dr Andrew McDonald said, “I congratulate the member for Tamworth on bringing the achievements of the people of Nundle to the attention of the House. Billy Smith is a hero and deserves the thanks of all who live with him. I hope that the recognition by Getaway will aid tourism. The playground deserves to become a major drawcard for the town. I congratulate the Nundle Community Development Committee on its work to date and wish it the best for the future.”
Click here for Hansard.
Draper meets with Water Minister Costa to Discuss Peel Stakeholders Concerns
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Earlier today, local MP, Peter Draper, met with NSW Water Minister, Phil Costa, and discussed a number of concerns from local stakeholders in relation to the Peel Valley Water Sharing Plan.
“I received a good hearing from the Minister,” Mr Draper said.
“We discussed the desire of local irrigators and Tamworth Regional Council to delay the deadline for submissions, and the Minister agreed to undertake urgent discussions with his Federal counterpart with a view to extending the consultation period,” he said.
Mr Draper said Minister Costa was very keen not to not jeopardise the Federal Government's commitment to enhancing the size of Chaffey Dam.
“Minister Costa is amenable to shifting the deadline provided the new time-line doesn’t assist the Federal Government to walk away from its commitment,” he said.
Mr Draper said he also asked whether a second draft of the Water Sharing Plan that incorporated suggestions from stakeholders could be produced, and made available to the public to allow further perusal, should an extension of time be granted.
“The Minister also gave an undertaking to investigate whether this would be possible,” he said.
“I raised a number of other issues the irrigators representatives have recently queried, including the period used to determine the History of Use containing two years of exceptional circumstance drought support, and whether this period should be removed to give a more accurate indication of use,” he continued.
Mr Draper said the Minister had entered into the discussions with goodwill and he looked forward to an early response.
Further $2.31 Million Investment in Tamworth TAFE Officially Opened Today
Monday, November 9, 2009
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has described today’s opening of the $2.31 million facility upgrades at TAFE NSW – New England Institute, Tamworth campus as a much welcomed investment in the region’s educational facilities.
The Federal Member for New England, Tony Windsor, joined with Mr Draper to unveil the commemorative plaque, and officially open the new facilities.
“This $2.31 million investment, funded jointly by the Federal and State Governments, has delivered a refurbishment of Block A, the upgrade of three existing stairwells and movement areas, the replacement of electrical boards, plus an upgrade to the entrance doors of Block L to facilitate disabled access,” Mr Draper said.
“The extensive renovations have also allowed two related sections within the Faculty of Business, being Business Services and Administrative Services, to combine and now deliver courses from the one location in Block A,” he said.
“The two sections can now liase more productively and provide students with a wider range of program and delivery options from the one location.”
Mr Draper said that the additional new facilities would further enable the Tamworth campus of TAFE to address the skills shortage challenging country NSW. He also pointed out that Tamworth Campus is the largest of TAFE NSW’s, New England Institute’s campuses.
“From 2006 to 2008, the Tamworth TAFE enrolled an average of 8,754 students annually, with current enrolments showing an increase of 2% over this time last year,” he said.
Mr Draper said this latest $2.31 million investment follows the opening of the $6.3 million automotive and electrotechnology training facilities at the Tamworth TAFE in November last year.
“To have over $8.5 million invested in Tamworth TAFE during the last 12 months is a confirmation that both State and Federal Governments have recognised that TAFE is best equipped to provide training services for our future tradespeople,” Mr Draper said.
“TAFE enrolments have been steadily increasing in recent years, and this massive injection of funding will allow Tamworth TAFE to further develop opportunities, while providing the best possible learning facilities for people from across the New England and Northwest of NSW.”
“The best news, is there is still much more investment to come for not only this fantastic facility, but for other TAFE campuses across the region,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Federal Member for New England, Tony Windsor, joins Independent State MP, Peter Draper, to unveil the plaque commemorating the official opening of the $2.31 million Tamworth TAFE redevelopment.
Examination of the Auditor-General's Performance Audits - Ageing Teacher Workforce - by Public Accounts Committee
Friday, November 6, 2009
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, has addressed the NSW Parliament on the Public Accounts Committee’s inquiry into the ageing teaching workforce, following the Auditor-General’s report on this issue. Mr Draper is a member of the Public Accounts Committee.
Mr Draper said the Auditor-General's initial report highlighted the education sectors particularly vulnerable position regarding problems associated with Australia's ageing workforce.
“I hold real concerns that rural and regional areas are particularly susceptible to impacts arising from an ageing teacher workforce,” he said.
“With the average age of schoolteachers now being 45, and considering 41 per cent of schoolteachers are aged 50 or over, plus with 50 per cent of teachers reaching retirement age by 2016, not only must there be sufficient numbers of teachers to meet demand, but it is critical that the special skills and knowledge of those who have dedicated their lives to teaching are not lost as they retire,” Mr Draper said.
“Although the Auditor-General found that the department had taken a number of steps to identify, address and monitor the impact of the ageing workforce on its services, he also identified gaps in relation to projections of retirement, the local impact of the declining teaching population, the medium-term impact of the declining teaching population, skills transference, workforce management, program evaluation and communication,” he said.
Mr Draper said that in its submission the Education Department informed the committee that it had undertaken a range of initiatives in response to the Auditor-General's report, including adopting mentoring programs for new teachers, and the production of a strategic reform document called “TAFE New South Wales: Doing Business in the 21st Century”.
“The department did not initially accept four of the Auditor-General's recommended initiatives, and the committee examined these in more detail. The department rejected the recommendation to conduct more online retirement surveys because, they felt that; ‘intentions are not as effective a predictor as past performance’. However, at the hearing Mr Coutts-Trotter (Director-General of the New South Wales Department of Education and Training), told the committee that better information was needed about the decision-making of individuals rather than groups, and that a retirement intention survey would be a useful means of gathering that information.”
“A more localised approach to assessing the impact of the department's ageing workforce was initially rejected on the grounds that vacancies at individual schools are dealt with as operational issues rather than as ‘shortages’. However, at the hearing Mr Coutts-Trotter said that the department had divided the State into 10 regions, with approximately 28 schools in each, for the purpose of identifying local staffing problems.”
“The department informed the committee that it had rejected the recommendation to conduct exit interviews because the response rate of a previous pilot was too low to justify full implementation. At the hearing, Mr Coutts-Trotter informed the committee that the department now thought it would be valuable to explore why people were leaving, and that it had developed some lower cost ways of doing this,” Mr Draper said.
“Finally, the department initially informed the committee that TAFE New South Wales would not be reporting annually to the Public Sector Workforce Office on areas in which there was a severe shortage with state-wide implications, because it was highly unlikely that there would be such a shortage. At the hearing Mr Coutts-Trotter said that the department had altered its position ‘because TAFE is a crucial institution and anything that threatens its capacity to do its job is of state-wide significance, and needs to be reported to the centre of Government’,” Mr Draper concluded.
Draper To Take TAFE Teacher's concerns to Parliament next week
Friday, November 6, 2009
Local MP, Peter Draper, today met with TAFE Teacher's Federation delegates and teachers to discuss the devaluing of teacher's wages and conditions under the current pay offer from the NSW Government.
Pictured with Mr Draper are Paul Gearin (TAFE Teachers Assoc), Jean Coady (Federation Representative Tamworth TAFE), Rob Henderson (TAFE Teachers Association President), Michael Burn (TAFE Teacher) and Kim Curtis (TAFE teacher/consultant for the deaf).
"At a time when Federal and State authorities are highlighting the need to upskill our workforce, it would be insanity to cut pay or conditions for this invaluable education sector," Mr Draper said.
"I will be taking local concerns to the Parliament next week, seeking answers to the serious issues that were raised during today's discussions."
Career Engagement Program
Friday, November 6, 2009
Local MP, Peter Draper, was delighted to present students who participated in the Career Engagement Program with their TAFE certificates.
Mr Draper said the benefits of the program and transition to jobs following training was impressive.
"Firstly, these motivated students deserve congratulations for their achievements, but so do the schools, teachers, employers and community organizations, along with BHP Billiton, who have made the program possible.
"Once again it demonstrated the fantastic education opportunities that are available for Gunnedah students," Mr Draper said.
Pictured at the presentation:
Back Row (from left): Stephen Williams (Head Teacher Metal Fabrication), Steven Wicks (Metal Teacher), James Ford, Jayde Campbell, Jake Woodhouse, Jade Insch, Arron Boag, Cody Auld, Sam Snape, Daniel Boyer, Ron Moran (Storeperson).
Front Row: Tania McShane (BHP Billiton), Sam Muller, Beau Coggan, Cameron Gardner, Amber Burns, Ben Lynch, James Blake, Jack Gillham, Peter Draper MP.
Irrigators Calls to Delay Water Sharing Plan May be Possible
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Independent State MP, Peter Draper, believes that calls to extend closing dates for submissions to the Peel Valley Water Sharing Plan are possible, but must be balanced against the need to meet Federal Government deadlines to gain funding for the augmentation of Chaffey Dam.
“It is easy for the Nationals declared political candidate, who has had no previous involvement in this process to move a populist motion ‘seeking an extension’ to deadlines, however he gave no indication on what this will achieve, other than to threaten the possibility of a Chaffey augmentation.”
“The Federal Government has set deadlines for the plan to be completed if they are to consider contributing to an augmentation, so I am concerned that a delay will raise the possibility that any augmentation, with its subsequent increase in water security, may be jeopardised.”
“I have spoken to Minister Costa’s office this morning, and have been advised that while an extension may be possible, it would delay any decision until well into 2010,” Mr Draper said.
“I have also discussed the Federal implications with Member for New England, Tony Windsor, who rightly points out that to delay until 2010 could impact on the political dynamics, as it may become engulfed in a Federal election campaign.”
“Irrigators are justified in expressing concern at the timelines in place, particularly as the Draft Plan was originally supposed to be released much earlier in the year than has been the case, however this reinforces my previous call that irrigators use their Water User Associations to put forward concerns and suggestions, so they put a united voice into their submissions,” he said.
“While individual submissions are encouraged, it is my view that submissions from the local Water Associations, Tamworth Regional Council and Namoi Water will have the biggest influence on the final Water Sharing Plan,” he continued.
“I arranged a meeting earlier this week between Water Minister Costa’s senior advisers and representatives of the Peel/Cockburn Water User Associations, where the need for increased extraction levels for both Regulated Peel General Security Water and Ground Water Alluvium under the CAP was discussed.”
Mr Draper said that the local delegates also discussed problems associated with a permanent transfer of entitlements to the Namoi, plus ways to do that without impacting upon the Peel Cap.
“Following that meeting, these concerns and the Associations proposals are being further investigated by State Water and the Minister’s Office,” he said.
“It is important that discussions on these issues between relevant authorities and irrigator representatives continues, rather than being turned into a political point scoring exercise by the National Party.”
“The Minister has assured me that he is committed to maintaining a viable irrigation in the Peel Valley, and I will continue working to ensure he delivers that outcome.” Mr Draper concluded.
Gunnedah Business’s Entrepreneurial vision highlighted in NSW Parliament
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Local State MP, Peter Draper, has highlighted the entrepreneurial vision of local Gunnedah business group, Gunnedah Industries and Stripes Services, in a speech to the NSW Parliament.
“At the invitation of company director, Jamie Chaffey, I recently visited Gunnedah Industries, which is located on a 200-hectare site on the Tamworth road, near Gunnedah. I was very impressed with the services and employment opportunities the company provides for the rapidly developing Gunnedah economy,” Mr Draper told the Legislative Assembly.
“Over the past few years, Gunnedah Industries has focused on the ever-growing need for products to service the waste management industry. It has had major success in promoting its waste collection stations, and has won tenders and supplied these stations to all levels of government across all States of Australia. It has also launched a new range of recyclable collection stations, it has other related products under development, and it has just finished testing a new unload-on-the-run cotton boll buggy.”
“Other Gunnedah Industries products include cotton module builders, cotton harvest machinery, waste oil collection centres, grain handling machinery, recyclables collection centres, oil filter crushers and other custom items. Gunnedah Industries is a real leader in Australian manufacturing and the design of many products, and welcomes the opportunity to design and manufacture new products,” he said.
“Stripes Services is committed to providing a large range of quality services and products to mining, agriculture and industry. It offers a 24/7 service in engineering, skilled labour hire, manufacturing, transport, product development and onsite repairs with fully equipped service vehicles, qualified project managers, pressure welding, poly welding, poly fitters, crane drivers, boiler makers, fitters and retail in steel, gas and all industrial consumables.”
“The group recently supplied quality engineering support onsite for Straits Hillgrove Gold, where staff have gained a large amount of specific experience, that the company believes will provide advantages for other future projects. The group also services Whitehaven Coal with factory fabrication, site works and washery maintenance, plus repairs and maintenance for several drilling companies,” he continued.
Mr Draper said the Group employed 40 experienced and skilled team members including boilermakers, fitters and turners, engineers, machinists, heavy vehicle drivers, administration staff, customer service personnel, drafting personnel and qualified project managers.
“Jamie Chaffey pointed out to me that the group is committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment for all employees and visitors. Its policy dictates making every effort to prevent accidents, to protect employees from injury and to promote the health, safety and welfare of all employees. Employees are required to participate in workshops to ensure they are all up to date,” he said.
“The company is to be commended for managing risk by implementing management systems to identify, monitor and control hazards and by constantly reviewing performance. Their vision in developing business opportunities, resulting in employment opportunities for Gunnedah locals is to be commended,” Mr Draper concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
Nundle Public School presented with $2,500 in Environmental Funding
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Local State MP, Peter Draper, today presented the Nundle Public School with $2,500 funding from the NSW Environmental Trust to develop an innovative environmental project – Garden to Kitchen to Garden Again.
“Nundle Public aims to develop an edible community kitchen garden using sustainable techniques, and hope that the project will teach students about the positive impacts that growing their own food has on the environment, while learning to value fresh, home-grown food.”
“Nundle Public will use the produce grown in their school kitchen garden to prepare and share meals together. The garden will be developed and maintained by pupils, staff and also the local community,” he said.
“By developing the reduce, reuse, recycle concepts and values associated with a kitchen garden, the children and the broader community will be reducing food waste and packaging, thus reducing the amount of garbage going to landfill while also lowering Nundle Public’s carbon footprint.”
“The aim is to have fun, while helping the wellbeing aspects and also the value of eating fresh, non processed foods, ripple out to the entire community.”
“Nundle Public will reduce, reuse and recycle their school waste to develop compost for the vegetable garden, and will install an irrigation system using harvested rainwater to water the garden. The project will contribute in a positive way to building responsible and sustainable patterns of living,” he continued.
Mr Draper said the outcomes would include an audit of waste in the school, and an investigation into the environmental impact of waste, and long-term importance of sustainable practises, thus establishing the need for recycling.
“Furthermore, Nundle Public students will research garden designs, composting and irrigation systems, then plan and design a raised “no-dig” garden suitable for the school’s needs.”
“The school will establish fortnightly kitchen garden cooking sessions, and they intend celebrating and showcasing the project’s success at a community dinner presented by the students,” he said.
“I congratulate the staff of Nundle Public who developed the program, the Nundle P&C for their support with both financial and in-kind contributions, plus local businesses and individuals throughout the Nundle community who continually back the school,” he continued.
“Nundle Public School students will increase their knowledge in relation to the cycle of waste, and specifically the value of recycling through this innovative program,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Local MP, Peter Draper, with some silver beet from the Nundle Public School Vegie Patch, joins Principal Ian Worley and the school assembly to celebrate S2,500 funding for their Garden to Kitchen to Garden Again environmental project.
Parliament Told Manilla's Phil Anderton is an Inspiration
Monday, November 2, 2009
State MP, Peter Draper, has used the inspirational story of Phil Anderton, who has ‘semi-retired’ to Manilla, to remind the NSW Parliament that it is important to support and encourage retired professionals so they can continue playing an active role and provide skills that benefit the wider community.
“These days "retirement" does not necessarily mean total withdrawal from one's trade or profession. There are probably many older retirees in rural areas that could be an untapped resource for their communities. Governments should identify these individuals, and provide them with the support needed to allow them to deliver a valuable part-time service,” Mr Draper told the NSW Parliament.
Mr Draper said Phil Anderton finished his Leaving Certificate at Marist Brothers High School Hamilton in 1965, and then studied Optometry at the University of NSW between 1966 and 1969. He worked as a part-time optometrist for Gibb and Beeman, George St. Sydney, from where he was often sent as a country locum to work at Wollongong, Newcastle, Camden and Lismore. Phil also studied for a B.Sc in Physiology at UNSW, and between 1972 and 1974, attended Melbourne University Department of Optometry, studying and researching an M.Sc.
Mr Draper said Phil worked at the University of NSW between 1978 and 2005, and completed a PhD in retinal physiology, while lecturing to optometry students in Anatomy and Physiology of the eye and visual system at the UNSW School of Optometry. Phil had a twenty-six year academic career at this School, and was responsible for establishing the course that enables optometrists to qualify in the use of restricted therapeutic drugs in the practice of optometry (NSW Optometrist Act, 2002).
“Phil decided to retire slightly early in 2005, and moved to Manilla. In semi-retirement, Phil joined the practice of Tim Duffy in Gunnedah, where he worked as a locum one or two days a week, and he was amazed at the broad scope of practice required compared with metropolitan practice. Phil was delighted to become part of the positive and supportive clinical network that exists in Gunnedah between the optometrist, local general practitioners and the regional ophthalmologists in Tamworth, Dubbo, Orange, and Armidale,” he said.
“Phil still occasionally travels to Sydney to teach at the University of NSW and for NSW Optometrist Association business. He is currently an adjunct Associate Professor at the University of NSW, and was elected President of the NSW Division of the Optometrists Association Australia in October 2008.”
“Phil also runs mobile clinics for Aboriginal communities two days a month, and recently set up a regular one-day-per-week clinic at the Manilla Health Service, attending Manellae Lodge Aged Care Facility as required on a domiciliary basis. It is a great boon for Manilla that these eye/vision clinic services will be integrated within the new Manilla HealthOne,” he continued.
Mr Draper said Phil is keen to have final year undergraduate optometry students from UNSW experience rural practice as a key part of their clinical training, and is working to have the UNSW and the University Department of Rural Health establish a joint rural clinical placement program. Phil has also initiated the formation of an Australia-wide Rural Optometrist Group to represent the interests and special needs of rural optometrists to Governments and other professions.
“Phil greatly enjoys his tree change, and his life as a part-time rural optometrist. By the way, for relaxation in his “retirement’, he is a member of the local gliding club, and also the Gunnedah Shire Brass Band, which is the current national champion. Phil Anderton is truly a remarkable individual,” Mr Draper concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
Value of the Region’s Volunteers Is Again Highlighted By Further Success in Tidy Towns Awards
Monday, November 2, 2009
According to State MP, Peter Draper, the value of local volunteers has again been demonstrated through further success at the Tidy Towns Sustainable Communities Awards held in Tamworth over the weekend, that culminated in Nundle winning the category for town’s with a population under 350.
“Congratulations are in order for the many volunteers who have contributed to Nundle’s success, and also for those who worked so hard to see Tamworth, Gunnedah, Kootingal, Bendemeer and Boggabri all receiving recognition at the weekend’s celebrations,” Mr Draper said.
When welcoming Tidy Town’s delegates to Tamworth on Friday night, Mr Draper acknowledged the achievements of the current committee resulting in Tamworth winning the national award earlier this year, and pointed out that the platform for their success had been established through the hard work of previous committees headed by local icons Laurie Beattie and Don Willis.
“Tamworth Tidy Towns committees, through the years, have mobilized a dedicated group of volunteers, with some 400,000 volunteer hours having gone into Tamworth’s success in the Tidy Towns Awards. That is an incredible volunteer effort,” Mr Draper said.
“To see Nundle, Gunnedah, Kootingal, Bendemeer, Boggabri and Tamworth all recognised as award recipients on the weekend, was recognition of many hard working volunteers across the district, and makes me extremely proud to represent such a proactive electorate,” he said.
“None of this would have been possible without the many volunteers who make up their town’s Tidy Towns committees. These people regularly take part in Keep Australia Beautiful clean up days, National Tree Planting Day, while thousands of individual householders also do their bit for the overall campaign,” he continued.
Mr Draper pointed out that anthropologist Margaret Mead once said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.”
“The volunteers, who over the years have driven the Tidy Towns concept, have certainly changed our world - very much for the better,” he said.
Mr Draper, who has served as a Tidy Towns Ambassador since 2007 said: “Long before caring for the environment became fashionable, the Tidy Towns Sustainable Communities Program encouraged rural communities across NSW to improve environmental outcomes for their town. It is impossible to place a value on the pride that this has engendered in communities right across the State.”
“Congratulations to the volunteers from across the district who have contributed to these further successes at the Tidy Towns Sustainable Communities Awards, and once again put our region at the forefront of State and National pride,” he concluded.
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