Support for free parking in Bendigo CBD
Last week, council's acting manager safe and healthy environments said the City is "not considering implementing free parking in December". So, it would appear officers have decided there be no timed free parking in the CBD prior to Christmas.
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The officers, with no skin in the game and totally unaffected financially by the pandemic, have unilaterally decided to say no to Barry Cail's worthwhile positive initiative.
This is an affront to the citizens of Greater Bendigo. Who is in charge, councillors or the officers? Surely any decision must be made by councillors at a Greater Bendigo council meeting.
Shopkeepers in the CBD, many struggling to stay afloat and provide for their families during the pandemic must be given every assistance to compete and survive. From Heathcote to Eaglehawk parking is free in all other Greater Bendigo shopping areas.
I hope as soon as the new council is sworn in, a Councillor with a heart, will give a notice of motion endorsing timed free parking in the CBD prior to Christmas.
Michael McKenzie, Strathdale
Message from the minister
This week is Veterans' Health Week and the theme this year is Social Connection. Now more than ever we need to keep up with our social connections, check in on our mates and make every effort to support one another through these difficult times.
Being socially connected is one of the most important aspects of maintaining overall mental health and wellbeing and it is crucial for our veteran community to stay connected to friends, family or local communities.
Almost 400 Veterans' Health Week events are being held across Australia this year, both in person and virtually, providing participants with COVID-safe options so everyone can get involved.
I encourage veterans, serving members and their families to attend a Veterans' Health Week event over the coming weeks, whether it is from the comfort of their own homes or attending safely in person.
Thank you to all the ex-service organisations and other veteran groups who have organised events this year, and creating an opportunity for veterans and their families to show their support for one another and raise awareness for veteran mental health.
For more information on attending a Veterans' Health Week event, visit the DVA website (www.dva.gov.au), call 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) or email vhw@dva.gov.au.
Finally, to all current and former ADF personnel who may be struggling for any reason, help is available and I encourage you to please reach out.
Don't forget that Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year to all current and former ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046.
Darren Chester MP, Minister for Veterans' Affairs
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