Top of that list were revelations that government agencies funded to protect our most vulnerable are approaching volunteer organisations in the Bega Valley requesting they assist with crisis accommodation placements.

The subsequent discussion raised some well-considered and worthwhile points – the main one being the potential of the defunct Bega District Hospital being opened up as a crisis hostel.

The idea was floated by several people, including Patrick Aberdeen, who suggested it could be opened each afternoon to those in need, supplying bedding, shower and toilet facilities and the chance of a hot meal.

His suggestion struck a chord with many other readers and it’s an idea we at the BDN will pursue for further information. The site and building is slated for a redeveloped TAFE “connected learning centre” with Andrew Constance and the council celebrating it would remain a precinct for use of the community.

Could it be argued that homeless and crisis accommodation for our community’s vulnerable is of more urgent need than shifting TAFE from its current location?

Another item that definitely got people talking was the sentencing of Laurence Delle Vergin on child pornography possession. Prominent in the community for his business and sports club links, it came as a shock to many he was on such a charge.

However there was also talk after we took down a social media post linking Facebook users to the article. One reader even made the abhorrent claim we were party to covering up the crime.

We categorically deny such a suggestion and as readers will plainly see, the article remains published in print and on our website. It is only the Facebook link to that article that we removed as we could no longer moderate the comments after hours.

Also, as regular readers would know, we stand shoulder to shoulder with our community in complete condemnation of those who perpetrate these crimes, calling it out as and when we can.

Passion for this community is rife throughout our readers, and you can be sure it is just the same in the newsroom.

All the very best for a merry and safe Christmas and happy New Year.