Tamworth reader AE Stannard writes with observations on claims being made during the state election campaigns.
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COMMUNITIES evolve over time as a result of the efforts of many groups, volunteers and individuals.
At this election there are many claims being made, so it is time that a true picture be set out.
For example, the Tamworth hospital complex is a result of a major effort from our previous member for New England, Tony Windsor, who obtained funding for the hospital redevelopment, cancer care unit, maternity ward redevelopment and training and accommodation facility.
The training facility is extremely important for the education and training of medical professionals who are essential for the wellbeing of rural communities.
Tied in with these projects, the then independent member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, secured a medical multi-purpose facilities for Werris Creek, Walcha and Manilla.
In addition Mr Draper ensured government commitment for the Barraba pipeline and enlargement of Chaffey Dam.
It was essential the overflow be enlarged for safety reasons prior to any work to increase the dam’s storage capacity.
It is sad to see on television The Nationals’ advertisement depicting a couple with a dependent child seeking state government support and making a claim that none was forthcoming from Mr Draper.
I remind The Nationals, and Kevin Anderson in particular, of Mr Draper’s successful work assisting the Bullimbal School in eventually having their outstanding school for more than 50 students built.
Community housing complexes in places such as Mahony Ave, Robert St and Margaret St, to name a few, are further examples of Peter Draper’s community support.
The latest Nationals brochure states “a little reminder of how badly the Tamworth electorate was ignored by Peter Draper”.
Some of the failings of The Nationals during their past four years in government include confusing and technically inappropriate standards when designating the prime agricultural lands of NSW and deferring until after the elections any changes to the Native Vegetation Act.
There’s also no drought rebate on the cost of transporting livestock or fodder, placing additional financial and emotional burdens on grazier families suffering the cruel impact of this prolonged dry.
Nationals are also being led by the nose to accept the sale of poles and wires.
If privatisation is so good, let the Liberals lease the Harbour Bridge and use the funds for infrastructure works in Sydney.
Then there’s The Nationals’ arm’s-length approach to resolving complex and community-sensitive issues, hiding behind the Planning Assessment Commission on Shenhua’s Watermark coal mine, and the ACCC rulings on Peel River water allocations and price.
Governments are elected to overcome problems, not to pass responsibility to appointed committees where the community has little recourse.
The Nationals’ dilly-dallying approach to coal seam gas and coal mining on productive farm lands has no regard to the long-term emotional impact on all concerned.
The NSW Mining Council’s television advertisement makes the claim that only 1 per cent of our region is impacted by mining, but makes no mention of the areas over which mining licences hang.
Communities survive due to their great faith, strength and perseverance.
Financial and emotional support for local anti-mining groups on the Liverpool Plains has come from locals, city dwellers and even overseas countries.
The Caroona community is greatly encouraged by this support.