Put yourself in their shoes
In response to Peter Reid (“Put our residents first”, June 23) and the reply from Cass North (“Not illegal to seek asylum”, June 27), may I add my full support to Ms North.
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It would seem that if one does not agree with Mr Reid’s views we are bigots. In that case, I happily accept the label bestowed upon me!
Our children here, by and large, have safety, education and a secure family life as their families are enabled to provide that.
Be we black, white or any other colour, then cut our hand – we bleed red blood. Hit us, we hurt. We suffer loss and we grieve. We are one. We are the human race.
All of us, from birth, are entitled to live a secure and productive life which the large percentage of refugees endeavour to do within our communities.
Imagine if your own family was in refugee mode. Would your attitude be the same?
Helen Johnston, Castlemaine
What is plebiscite’s point?
Tony Abbott still wants a plebiscite on same-sex marriage.
The Oxford Dictionary defines plebiscite as "law enacted by commonality in comitia tributa; direct vote of all electors of state on important public question; public expression of community's opinion, with or without binding force".
To be blunt, the government does not have to comply with the vote.
Bruce Dudon, Woodend
Approved, but not right
I have been witnessing this week the destruction of habitat of dozens of animals as hundreds of trees are being removed.
A front end loader rips of branches, throwing them to the ground towards a small group of kangaroos and a small joey as they quickly scurry away. A tree down that was home to a possum and another with a deserted birds nest.
The land of the service road in Kangaroo Flat was a wetland and stood as the last safe and green space for hundreds of animals all being destroyed.
Approval of a planning permit still doesn't make it right.
It is always the case that the residents are landed with the dirt, dust, noise and road closures so the developers can run away at the end and take no responsibility.
But why should they? They have a permit and of cause that makes it alright.
No. I say, it does not.
Stuart Symes, Epsom
Golf clubs promote health
Our city councillors should take note of the recent AusPlay research carried out by the Australian Sports Commission if they are serious or concerned about the well-being of Bendigo citizens.
The ASC research reveals that golf is the fifth ranked sport across the nation for the number of adults participating each year, and is the number one club sport for adults by a comfortable margin.
According to the research, there are 200,000 non-golfers considering taking up or trying the sport in the next 12 months. Fifty-three per cent say for fun and enjoyment, health and fitness and others for social reasons.
Golf club participation numbers 666,349 and all players number over one million participating.
This sport certainly improves citizens well-being, but the question arises as to what extent does the city council assist or encourage this sport in Bendigo?
We hear a lot about bike paths and how they are necessary for enjoyment and well-being, but does our council consult with the golf clubs of Bendigo to provide assistance and help those great people who volunteer their time ensuring the club is available to the public and tourists?
Does council have any idea of how many citizens of Bendigo and tourists use the resources which are available in Bendigo?
I don’t think so.
