Between 3.20 to 4.30am I go outside to double check on the street lighting on my stretch of New England from the Calala exit through the Longyard and again there is no street lights on the east side and when I’m told lighting is adequate the reason is obvious.

They rely on the signage from the Motel 369 and the excellent RMS depot lighting, meant for security and RMS staff car parking.

Then the Longyard Homemakers shop signs.

My east side is dark.

There is nothing there except the giant gum tree, which hides a candle power light.

Your National Party council and National Party engineers along with your National Party member for Tamworth apparently see that street lighting supplied by other institutions are adequate for public safety.

If the motel to cut costs decided to switch off at say midnight, please tell me my learned friends, what have you got then?

Same as your National Party supposed highway - nothing.

They can’t even supply lighting on the major intersections, which I believe is mandatory in urban areas for highways and now they want us to vote for them again?

Alan Lyle,

Tamworth

In today’s busy world ten years goes very quickly.

Think of something you did ten years ago and it will seem more like five years. The savings then become worthwhile.

I also think that Councils need to be setting the example on power savings so there is that to be taken into account also.

Richie Thornton

Tamworth

I am deeply disappointed by the recent media reports regarding behaviour of Nationals Member for Mallee Andrew Broad.

It is deeply concerning and not representative of my party.

Members of the public have every right to expect that the behaviour from their elected representatives is in line with community expectations and standards.

Andrew has done the right thing by deciding to not contest the next election.

I acknowledge Andrew’s representation for the electorate of Mallee since 2013 and my thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.

The Nationals have represented Mallee since 1949 and we hope to continue our strong representation for the people of Mallee.

The Nationals are not a party where this standard of behaviour is acceptable.

Right around the nation, the Nationals have a number of strong and articulate men and women representing the 30 per cent of Australians who live outside our capital cities.

As Deputy Leader of the Nationals and Senator for Victoria until 2021, it is a great privilege and honour to represent regional Victorians and I remain focused on fighting for a prosperous, safe and sustainable future for all Australians who live and work in regional areas.

Bridget McKenzie

Deputy Leader of The Nationals