Hollow slogans
AS the federal election rolls into our towns, so do the National Party slogans. When we see statements like ‘getting it done’ or ‘putting you first’, I hope voters question what this actually means.
How is the state of our country roads, lack of hospital health care services funding (especially aged care), adequate transport options, digital connectivity for all and water mismanagement ‘getting it done’?
Member for Mallee Anne Webster says she wants to be judged on her almost four year track record in government. I asked Mallee voters their thoughts on her track record. Here are some of the answers; “where are our hospital services?”, “where is the highway funding including the bypass?”, “where are the options for our youth?”, “where is the business investment?”, “we need our airport runway upgrade” and “where is Anne Webster in all this — we never see her.”
Add to that, lack of vision and foresight — it seems the Nationals are incapable of creating their own inspiration.
I aim to replace hollow slogans with real action, and provide the electorate of Mallee with what has been lacking for so long; real vision and leadership.
Claudia Haenel,
Independent candidate for federal seat of Mallee
Firearm changes
Firearm owners need to be aware of some changes to storage requirements that will commence on August 30, 2022.
The new rules relate to all Category A, B, C and D firearms, as well as general use handguns.
Victorian gun owners will be prohibited from storing firearms in wooden containers, or in other vessels such as toolboxes or clothing lockers.
Instead, firearms must be stored in a purpose-built steel container or safe of at least 1.6mm thickness.
These containers must be appropriately locked, and if they weigh less than 150kg when empty, they must be bolted to the structure of the premises.
I would urge all firearm owners to be aware of the changes, and check if their current storage methods meet these requirements.
We don’t want to see anyone getting unwittingly pinged because they’re not across the new rules.
The purpose of the changes is to reduce firearm theft and keep guns in responsible (and licensed) hands.
If you need any further information, give us a call on 5021 2828 and we can point you in the right direction.
Ali Cupper,
Member for Mildura
