Defensive Driver Training
Echo 11 November 2004
Defensive Driver Training
It was indeed a pleasure, as a result of the Young Driver Forum that I organised
in Lismore this year, to see students from St Mary's High School in Casino and
Kadina High in Goonellabah attending and gaining invaluable skills at the Safe
Driver Training in Casino. I hope this will be the first of many training days
to equip our young drivers with important safety skills and techniques, ensuring
their care and protection whilst enjoying the privilege of driving and
independence.
Lismore Police Station
I was heartened by the recent visit of a planning team from the Department of
Commerce, who met recently with representatives of the Richmond Local Area
Command. My approaches to Minister Watkins highlighting the need for a new
Lismore Police Station, have received further acknowledgement through this
deputation and inspection of local facilities. I am hopeful the business plan
being presented to the Minister at the end of the year will further strengthen
the case and my call for a new police station in Lismore.
2LM Children's Charity Christmas Appeal Walk
The support and sponsorship for this day was tremendous with the team of walkers
raising $12,500 for needy Northern Rivers children. I decided to gather a group
of friends to walk from 2LM in Goonellabah to Lismore Airport in order to
support the beneficiaries of the appeal and especially four organisations in my
electorate; including Jumbunna and Summerland Early Intervention, Wilson Park
School and Caspa (the North Coast Children's Home). The community spirit was
inspiring and wonderful, as was the generosity of the many sponsors.
Electorate Functions
Casino Relay for Life - relaying a message of hope. I attended the
opening ceremony and was honoured to acknowledge survivors, carers and families.
The success of this event is reflected in the fundraising efforts of many local
participants.
SCU vs Townies - as part of the (blue flag logo), I participated in the
SCU vs Townies cricket challenge which reinforced the University working with
the community of which was just won by the SCU team.
Our Kids Melbourne Cup Luncheon - I joined with many supporters of the
Our Kids project to attend this fundraising function. An enjoyable afternoon was
had by all with organisers relaxing after the fashion parade to join with the
rest of the Nation to stop and witness the great race.
Flag Presentations - I have had the pleasure of joining with Blue Hills
College and Bonalbo Schools recently in joining with the school communities and
presenting them with a new State flag.
Launch History of SCU - it was my pleasure to launch the Southern Cross
University's History project last weekend and address the important role of the
University within the North Coast community. Data derived in 1994 demonstrated
that in the Lismore area alone, the university's presence generated more than
1,900 full-time equivalent jobs and flow-on impacts of an additional 1,380 jobs
from expenditures of staff and students. The University plays a vital role in
the economy of the North Coast, contributing vastly in educational diversity and
essential research, which supports the various industries of our region.
Clunes School - I visited the students last week to enjoy listening and
adjudicating at the School's speaking competition. Congratulations to the
participants.
Wilson Park School Technology Conference - This Conference which
demonstrated the use of technology and programs to assist and support lifelong
learning of people with disabilities was indeed impressive. I enjoyed being
present and this Conference was beneficial in the utilisation of technology for
literacy, communication, numeracy and speech.
SCU 10 Birthday Reception and Gala Concert -, I am looking forward to
attending this celebration with the University community and special guest, the
Governor, Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir this weekend.
