Tribute to colleague
Our branch members were shocked to hear of the tragic death of OEH officer Glen Turner and extend our deepest condolences to his family.
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We wanted to acknowledge the Environment Minister for the tribute he gave in Parliament, honouring Mr Turner.
Mr Stokes' words were dignified, moving, clearly heartfelt and would have given some comfort to Mr Turner's family.
They stood in stark contrast to the horribly insensitive commentary by some politicians and media outlets in the aftermath of this awful event.
Our branch strongly supports OEH officers undertaking the important work of protecting our environment.
Mr Stokes got it exactly right when he said, "To lose one's life in the course of public duty is a shocking tragedy unworthy of our state."
If readers wanted to assist Mr Turner's family, community supporters have set up the following accounts:
Waggamba Landcare Croppa Creek Trust for Glen Turner's Family BSB: 084-675, Account: 840845268.
Commonwealth Bank: Account name Glen Turner Trust, BSB 062-602, Account number 10601120.
Doug Reckord, president
National Parks Association Far South Coast Branch
Valuing smiles
It’s the personalities at the shop front that decide whether you become a regular or not.
Fortunately Bega has an abundance of warm and welcoming smiling faces backed by great service that keep Bega a thriving business centre.
Nancy, the face of Target, has retired and so many of us will miss her genuine nature and efficiency.
Fond farewell and hugs and a big thank you!
Wendy Neville
Tantawangalo
Third-rate treatment
How is it that pensioners are treated differently, even those on a disability to no fault of their own because they had an accident and are busted up inside?
The reason I’m saying this is we have no rights to purchase anything, because we are a pensioner and as soon as you say that to a car dealer here in Bega they look at you as if you’ve got a disease.
“No way” they say and that’s that.
We are classed as third-rate citizens with only a number, not a proud name we used to have, but a lousy number with no rights.
Is there any establishment where we can achieve a bit of hope in this kind of predicament and where we can achieve at least some sort of salvation?
Even banks don’t want to know you if you apply for a loan or a credit card.
Name withheld by request
Eradicate asbestos
The widespread use of asbestos in building materials last century means that the material is still present in many of our houses, schools and other public buildings.
Once asbestos is disturbed, fibres that are released into the air can be inhaled and can lead to deadly diseases including mesothelioma.
We must do more, not less to eradicate the risks.
That’s why any moves to abolish the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency would be cause for serious concern.
Abolishing the agency would be a minor cost cutting measure and a false economy because it ignores the long-term health and economic costs that could result from watered-down efforts to address this vital public health issue.
As an asbestos lawyer I continue to see new clients, recently diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases, many of whom have been exposed through home renovations.
The Federal Government has indicated it has made no final decision on the Commission of Audit recommendation to scrap the agency, and I strongly urge it to think seriously about adopting this recommendation.
While asbestos is still present in our communities, we must continue to make asbestos safety and eradication a public health priority.
Margaret Kent
National practice group leader, asbestos
Slater and Gordon Lawyers