Letters to the Editor

The fact that on the opposite side of the Yass Valley is the duplicated Federal Highway, used as frequently as the Barton Highway. 

The concept that it is too expensive to duplicate seems farcical. The Australian economy is no-longer booming and our construction industry is currently under-utilised.

Now is the golden opportunity, for smart Government investment in our infrastructure. Investment that will achieve savings on original estimates.

What is needed is foresight and true leadership rather than political games. We need a clear timetable of planning; costing; and commence construction.

We need to band together to make this a reality for the safety of motorists using the road. 

Chris O’Brien 

With the mercury soaring in New South Wales this week, we urge everyone to take extra care and to check in with neighbours and loved ones who may be vulnerable to the heat.

‘Extreme hot weather can cause serious health problems – most people don’t know that more Australians have died as a result of heatwaves than because of floods, bushfires or cyclones,’ says Australian Red Cross’ State Manager Emergency Services Diana Bernardi. ‘Older people, pregnant women, children, those with a disability and people taking medications are among those who are more at risk.’

Red Cross’ tips for coping with the heat:

Drink regularly: even if you don’t feel thirsty. Water is the best option.  Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and sugary or fizzy drinks.

Eat little and often: rather than large meals. Try to eat more cold food, particularly salads and fruit, which contain water.

Stay indoors: in the coolest rooms of your house or in the shade.

Take cool showers and splash yourself with cold water several times a day, particularly your face and the back of your neck. A loose, cotton, damp cloth or scarf on the back of the neck can help you stay cool.

Air flow: make sure there is sufficient air circulation, either from an air conditioner or by leaving a secured window or door open.

Find the shade: if you must go out, stay in the shade. Wear a hat and light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes, preferably made of natural fibres.

Red Cross

These holidays, Alzheimer’s Australia NSW is urging anybody with a family member or friend with dementia to be mindful of their symptoms and look out for changes in their condition.

In the Goulburn electorate there are an estimated 1,450 people living with dementia. That figure is projected to increase to about 2,900 by 2050.

Because holiday celebrations provide a time for families and friends to come together after what can often be long periods of time, it is in these instances that changes in thinking, memory and behaviour can seem most apparent.

That’s why this festive season we’re encouraging families to re-assess their loved one’s condition and situation. This is important in identifying what extra support might be required in light of any change in behaviours or worsening of symptoms.

If you notice changes in a loved one or have any other concerns, I urge you to call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 to speak to an expert. 

Our dementia advisors are trained to listen to your concerns.  

The Hon. John Watkins 

Alzheimer’s Australia NSW