Katrina's Monthly Report
24/10/2008
Springtime is a great time for community groups to fundraise and celebrate special events. This month I was honoured to unveil a plaque and join in the celebrations at the Reids Flat School Centenary; had fun at another successful annual Boorowa Irish Woolfest; was privileged to launch the Hilltops Suicide Prevention Network at Young; attended a function at Murringo; and celebrated with Murrumburrah residents on their town’s 150th anniversary.
Parliament
Bi-elections this month resulted in huge swings against Labor, reflecting electors’ total lack of confidence in the NSW Labor government. Every day constituents are contacting me to voice their concerns about reductions in services particularly in the health arena. Patients and their carers are having increasing difficulty obtaining equipment and supplies. I questioned the Minister for Water on plans to divert a substantial flow from the Murrumbidgee River into the ACT water supply; and again questioned the Minister for Education and Training on funding losses to schools through the Country Area Program. Estimates In my capacity as Shadow Minister for Community Services, Families and Child Safety, this month I prepared questions for the Opposition to put direct to the Minister for Community Services about the accountability of this department. These questions encompassed many parts of the DoCS portfolio, including child protection, foster care, adoption and other issues pertaining to child safety. A transcript of this Hansard is now available and can be accessed via the NSW Parliament’s website on www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/budgetestimates.
CAP Sports Grants now open
In encouraging the development of sporting and recreational facilities across the electorate I urge any interested not-for-profit organisation in need of assistance to consider applying for funding through the 2008-09 Capital Assistance Program. The grants are provided on a dollar for dollar basis, however the value of voluntary labour or donated materials may be taken into account in the application. Information packs and application forms are available from the NSW Department of Sport and Recreation or clubs and sporting groups are welcome to contact my office for a form on 1800 00 2580 or 6226 3311. Applications for funding in this year’s round close on 14 November 2008.
Crookwell Neighbourhood Centre
I have raised the concerns of Crookwell and district residents regarding the possible sale of the Denison Street Neighbourhood Centre with the Minister for Health. I have sought assurances from the Minister for Health that the site donated by the Crookwell District Hospital Board to the community in 1984 for use as a neighbourhood centre will remain available to the people of Crookwell.
Higher School Certificate
My best wishes to students across the Burrinjuck Electorate currently sitting their HSC examinations. Good luck for your results and may your choice to stay on for your final exams be mirrored in a life long love of learning. I hope each student will do well and find fulfilment in contributing to their community in their own special way.
Increases to First Home Owner Grant
In order to assist first homebuyers to purchase their home the First Home Owner Grant Scheme was established in July 2000. Initially a $7000 grant was offered and now the Commonwealth Government has announced First Home Owner Boost doubling the grant to $14,000 for the purchase of established homes. The scheme, effective from 14 October 2008 to 30 June 2009, also increases the grant for first homebuyers who build a new home or purchase a newly constructed home, from $14,000 to $21,000. The grant is not means tested and no tax is payable on it. Application forms are available from the NSW Office of State Revenue website www.osr.nsw.gov.au or applicants can check with their financial institution when arranging finance. Following the purchase or completion of building of the new home applicants have 12 months from completion of the eligible transaction to lodge the application. This period may be extended in exceptional circumstances.
Carer’s Week
Carer’s Week, which ran from 19 to 25 October, gave us the opportunity to reflect on the valuable role carers play. The contribution carers make in the community is essential to our society. Their role is often demanding, limiting the amount of time and resources available for self-care. Activities were held in Grenfell and Young during Carer’s Week and I hope carers felt pampered as they took time out from caring for their family members or friends.
Volunteers wanted for Mandurama Reserve
An enthusiastic team is being sought to manage the affairs of the Mandurama Public Hall Reserve Trust. The role of Trustee is voluntary and would be for a term of five years. An information package can be obtained by contacting Leonie Brown on 6391 4329, or phone my office for an application form to sent by post. Applications should be received by 27 November 2008.
SOFT course for women
A reminder for women in the Yass, Harden and Young areas that a free Shaping Our Futures Together course will be held on Tuesday 4th and Wednesday 5th November 2008 at the Retreat Centre, St Clements Monastery, Galong. The drought-funded course includes a wide range of learning activities to help build self-esteem and shape your future with emphasis on having fun while you learn. Accommodation with dinner and breakfast is available at the centre for around $100 per person. Registrations are due by 31 October. Contact Sonia Muir at Rural Women’s Network in Orange on 6391 3611 or email sonia.muir@dpi.nsw.gov.au
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