Anzac Day 2003

Anzac Day 2003

I hope that everyone, particularly in respect to the present turbulent times, avails themselves to the opportunity to join with our servicemen and women, together with the ensuing generations that are participating in these ceremonies, to honour our past and present serviceman and women on this 2003 Anzac Day. We can all be proud and respectful of those who have served and are in action for their country and our freedom.

Anzac Day Schools' Activities Awards

These awards provide schools with the opportunity to showcase what they have done to honour Anzac Day. This give students the chance to develop new and creative ways of commemorating Anzac Day, while still observing tradition. Further information can be obtained by calling 1800 555254.

Royal Easter Show

I was honoured to be part of the National Party team that hosted a morning tea and a tour of Parliament House for this year's finalists for the Royal Easter Show Miss Showgirl and the Rural Achievers Award. These finalists are our ambassadors who help raise the motivation of young people and make a contribution to the advancement of country communities. Furthermore, I was pleased to attend the John Weekes NSW Young Auctioneers Competition and to see local auctioneer, Matthew McCormack from Casino, place second.

Kidney Association

As patron, I had the pleasure of attending the Annual Meeting of the Northern Rivers Kidney Association and the election of officers were as follows; President Mr George Radermacher; Vice President: Ray Stevenson; Secretary; Mrs Annie Radermacher; Vice Secretary: Bronwyn Dwyer; Treasurer: Colin Johnston; Patient Representative: Bev Stevenson and Public Officer: Ray Stevenson. Annual Membership is $5 and any enquiries can be directed to PO Box 1287 Lismore NSW 2480.

Return Unwanted Medicines (RUM)

During the past 12 months, NSW residents have handed in more than 70 tonnes of unwanted and out-of-date medicines to pharmacies. The RUM project encourages householders to collect unwanted and out-of-date medicines and return them to any community chemist for free and safe disposal. The State Government has funded a two-year community awareness program to educate residents about this project. I encourage residents of the Lismore electorate to participate in this project to ensure the safety of family members, particularly children, and the protection of the environment. Further information can be obtained by calling 1300 650835 or visit www.returnedmed.com.au.

Electorate Functions

I have been pleased to attend many functions throughout the electorate in the past couple of weeks, including the NSW TAFE 2003 Excellence Awards, opening of Elders Memorial Park in Goonellabah, the media launch of the Kids in Community Awards and the dress rehearsal of the Northern Stars Under the Big Top. Congratulations to all participants, award winners and organisers on the magnificent programs, which make me very proud to be your representative.

Northern Rivers Catchment Blueprint

Copies of the Blueprint are available from my office or on the web at www.dlwc.nsw.gov.au.

I wish to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very a safe and happy Easter.