I have been buoyed by all the positive feedback to this column, in particular the widespread view that our electorate needs representative change.
Everyone is tired of the party politics that threatens the livelihoods of people in the Farrer electorate, and if the feedback I get is an indication, this is a message I expect to be delivered loud and clear at the by-election on May 9.
I was particularly touched by a resident who contacted me to express concerns about our local environment and thought I would share the story as it typifies what has happened in our community.
He told me he was an environmentalist who for 30 years had supported efforts to improve our river systems, the ecology and our surrounding communities. There were obvious issues with European carp proliferation, plus a need to promote restocking programs for native fish, with fundraising efforts required to support these.
Over the years, this gentleman and others worked hard to improve the region’s river environments, and were proud to record positive impacts and achievements.
However, this is offset because today the same environmental mistakes are made over and over by our leaders, with the only constant in the revolving door of politics and the Basin Plan being the locals who have to suffer the consequences.
This was once again on display when local fish kills occurred in the Bullatale Creek system near Deniliquin, caused by so-called environmental works on streams. These fish kills could have been prevented, but they weren’t, leaving locals to clean up the mess. And again, the restocking programs were dealt a blow.
His final reflection is what we all know, yet no-one in party politics is prepared to address it: “The Basin Plan is failing and our communities suffer. If we destroy our towns and communities, who will save our environment? It won’t be the government!”
Neil Eagle, with his vast knowledge of water management, farming and communities, described the Basin Plan as “Australia’s worst legislation”. As it continues to be rolled out with adverse consequences, yet no appetite by political parties for change, this is surely an accurate assessment.
We need to choose our next Member for Farrer very carefully. Do we want another representative from the major parties who prioritise their existence and future over local communities? I don’t think we do.
- Contributed by Vicki Meyer
• Authorised by Vicki Meyer, ‘Werrina’, 14 McCallum Road, Warragoon NSW 2710.
