Sad Cup quest
IN a quest to win on the Melbourne Cup, I picked this horse well and hoped for good luck, An Irish steed my eventual choice, being that the track was so moist, The Cliffsofmoher seemed a handsome name, and I placed the bet on its ride to fame, The field took off at a steady pace, the hope of all jockeys — a win in this race, But for my number 2 at the 600 mark, all was not well as it faltered and lost spark, Such a saddening end at Cliffsofmoher’s last sigh, as another thoroughbred departed to that stable in the sky. ter would be removed from the World Heritage Area without requesting information about how this could be achieved. This demonstrates the potential for major environmental impacts to fall through the cracks between state and federal responsibility, and the need for Tasmanian legislation to ensure Reserve Activity Assessments are done to an acceptable standard according to a transparent process, like any other planning assessment.
Rail crossing risk
THE Lawitta railway crossing on the Lyell Highway north of New Norfolk has become too dangerous to ride across in the wet. Motorbikes are sliding out on these angled lines as the road deteriorates due to lack of maintenance. TasRail is well aware of the danger. When cyclists kept falling off they put up Cyclists Dismount signs. As the gaps widen will they put up signs for motorcyclists? We all want to see the Derwent Valley line used for a tourist venture, but in the meantime, would Derwent Valley Council, State Growth and TasRail stop passing the buck and put their heads together to fix the Lawitta railway crossing before there is a serious accident.
Musical talent
THE Tasmanian Youth Orchestra held its annual concert at the Stanley Burbury Theatre on Sunday to a packed house. Talented and enthusiastic young Tasmanians helped by their conductors performed musical renditions to a very high standard which bought a “lump to thee throat” to many. Congratulations must be given to the TYO board and management including the many proud and supportive parents, grandparents and friends who help nurture these young ones.
Boosting councils
I WRITE to thank the Mercury team for support in encouraging record participation in council elections. LGAT looks forward to working with members as they come to grips with the diversity of council functions and community views. The Mercury understands councils are not just about roads, rates and rubbish. Councils are managing roads, streets, pavements, traffic lights, bridges and car parks, making sure stormwater and drainage systems don’t fail and managing waste. Councils ensure development aligns with community expectations and buildings are of required standard, they are considering how climate change might impact their communities and are conserving biodiversity and water. As we enter bushfire season councils are gearing up to help communities prepare. Councils will provide cultural and sporting venues and events, immunise children and ensure drinking water is safe and that where you eat is not going to make you sick. Many provide childcare, aged care, gardens and youth programs. Regardless of debates about the number of councils, it is clear from the number of candidates and number of voters that local government plays an important role in shaping our communities.