Christmas message

Dear Editor Christmas is a busy time for The Salvation Army.

Whilst the true meaning of the season is of peace, joy and hope, it’s a fact that hundreds of thousands of Australians find Christmas stressful and a financial nightmare. The Salvation Army gives hope to those who need it most at Christmas by distributing thousands of food vouchers and hampers to people in need and providing gifts and toys to families in crisis.

I’d like to urge readers to stop for a moment and ask, ‘Can I help someone who is struggling?’ We believe that no-one should have to go it alone at Christmas time and I truly believe that we are a nation that stands by those in need.

Specifically, I write to ask readers if they could join with us at The Salvation Army to give hope to those who need it most this Christmas. There are easy actions you can take that will genuinely make a world of difference.

You can donate to the Salvos by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58). Funds are desperately needed. You can also donate in person at any Westpac branch. Donations of new, quality gifts or non-perishable food items can be made at most Salvation Army centres. It’s best to call 13 SALVOS to find out how you can assist us in your local area, or check out salvos.org.au to find out how you can help.

On behalf of The Salvation Army I wish all readers a Christmas filled with joy, peace, and above all else, HOPE. Yours sincerely, Leigh Cleave, Communications and Fundraising Director

In response to comments made in Seven Days (9.12.16 edition of Dubbo Weekender regarding water release from Burrendong Dam;

Waternsw have said in a statement:

Water releases from Burrendong Dam had not changed in volume and The Weekender’s reports of a “massive release” were inaccurate.

Dam releases have consistently ranged from 2500-3500 megalitres per day since early November.

While releases remained constant, the source of the discharge changed from surface water via the spillway to deeper water via the valve, to prevent bluegreen algae being released downstream.

The operational change was conducted in line with dam protocols to reduce to risk communities, water users and livestock.