February 28, 2007
Bullying Heave-Ho In New Memorandum
Bullying in the PS workplace is to be tackled head on with a new Minsterial Memorandum urging all Departments and Agencies to enforce the Government’s Policy and Guidelines in the hope of stamping out the practice.
   The Memorandum entitled Dignity and Respect: Policy and Guidelines on Preventing and Managing Workplace Bullying provides an overarching framework for  Agencies to review and develop their own policies to eliminate workplace bullying.
   The Memorandum says the Government was committed to achieving and maintaining workplaces which were free from workplace bullying.
   “All employees should expect that any grievance or complaint lodged in relation to bullying will be dealt with fairly, confidentially and managed in a timely and effective manner,” the Memorandum says.
   The Policy and Guidelines require Agencies to consider bullying in the context of managing and assessing occupational health and safety risks and to adapt existing grievance handling systems to address any complaints. The Policy and Guidelines have been developed in consultation with Public Sector agencies and unions.
   The Memorandum says anti-bullying training was an important element of the risk management approach and Agencies should take active steps to ensure appropriate training of staff was undertaken.
    The Memorandum acknowledges that Unions NSW had received funding through the WorkCover Assist Funding Scheme to develop training resources in this area which would be offered to Agencies.
   The Dignity and Respect in the Workplace Charter, originally developed by Unions NSW, had been revised to include the key principles of the Policy and Guidelines.
   It was recommended that the Charter be endorsed by agency Occupational Health and Safety Committees and/or Joint Consultative Committees as part of implementing the Policy and Guidelines.
   All NSW Public Sector organisations within the meaning of the Public Sector Employment and Management Act 2002 are required to apply the Policy and Guidelines.
   State Owned Corporations are strongly encouraged to.

February 28, 2007
Painting Packers Back Jack
Sydney artist, Danelle Bergstrom’s portrait Take Two; Jack Thompson has been voted the best in this year’s Archibald Prize by the staff of the Art Gallery of NSW.
   The painting has won the Packing Room Prize in conjunction with the 2007 Archibald Prize.
   The Prize is voted on by the Gallery staff which receive the entries and install the Archibald exhibition and for head storeman, Steve Peters, it was his 23rd Archibald and his 16th Packing Room Prize.
   Mr Peters said he chose this painting because “it looked just like Jack”.
   Ms Bergstrom said she chose to paint actor Jack Thompson for several reasons - he’s an Australian icon whose acting career spans more than 40 years; he’s a committed environmentalist; and importantly because he’s down to earth, unpretentious and a truly genuine Australian bloke.
   Jack Thompson has appeared in more than 70 feature64 films and television series and is also a Goodwill Ambassador for the UN High Commission for Refugees.
   Born in Sydney in 1957, Danelle Bergstrom studied at the Julian Ashton School of Art and then completed a Bachelor of Art Education at the Alexander Mackie College of Advanced Education. She has exhibited in solo and group shows since 1980 including the Portia Geach Memorial Award, the Doug Moran Portrait Prize, the Kedumba Drawing Prize and the Archibald Prize.
   Her work is represented in collections in Australia and overseas, including the National Portrait Gallery of Australia.
   She is a finalist in this year’s Archibald and was a finalist last year for her painting of Kevin Connor.
   Last year’s Packing Room Prize winner was Michael Mucci for his portrait of Scott Cam. In addition to the Packing Room Prize of $500 cash, Ms Bergstrom receives a $500 Myer gift card.

February 28, 2007
Job Cuts Opponents Put On Rally Big Show
The Public Service Association of NSW is to hold a rally at Sydney Town Hall on 15 March as part of its Job Cuts=Service Cuts campaign.
   The campaign opposes proposed Public Service job cuts by both Labor and Liberal/National Governments.
   The rally starts at 9am and is expected to last no more than an hour to allow PSA members in the city to be at their work by 10.30am.
   The Association plans to write to the Premier’s Department to ask them to approve flexible starting times and leave arrangements to allow staff to attend.
   While PSA members are expected to make up the bulk of the meeting, other unions were encouraging their members and friends to attend.

February 28, 2007
Gay Abandon a No-No at Mardi Gras
The NSW Ambulance Service has urged people to stay safe at this year’s annual Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.
   The Service has issued guidelines it hopes people will follow to keep the event a trouble-free one but Ambos Warna Against Gay Abandon at Mardi Grasacknowledged that the Mardi Gras parade brought with it a large party atmosphere.
   As the event was community orientated, it meant that people of many ages and backgrounds would be attending.
    The Service offered the following tips to make sure everyone stays safe and has fun:
   Drink alcohol in moderation – you will still have a good time and you’ll feel better the next day! Alternate water or soft drink with alcohol.
   Never leave your drink unattended – if you are in a pub, club or bar it is important to be vigilant of your drink, and those of your companions. Drink spiking is, unfortunately, a common occurrence.
   Avoid taking glass bottles or containers to celebrations – a large number of calls that Ambulance attends at outdoor party events are injuries caused by broken glass.
   Pre-organise a designated driver who won’t consume alcohol, or travel by public transport. Plenty of extra taxis and buses will be running on the night.
   Motorists should be very wary of increased pedestrian activity – avoid driving in CBD areas for the night if possible.
   If you go out during the day, ensure you “slip, slop, slap and wrap” to protect yourself from the sun.
   Avoid taking drugs – many illicit drugs are manufactured by “backyard operators” and can contain extremely toxic chemicals and substances.

February 28, 2007
Double DEC Blitz for Dodgy Vehicles
A successful operation that targeted illegal waste transport, dangerous goods carriers and polluting vehicles on inner city streets would be repeated in coming months, according to the Department of Environment and Conservation NSW.
   DEC Director General, Lisa Corbyn said the initial operation was the first of a number of joint operations with Surry Hills police planned for the year.
   DEC officers checked 27 trucks at a specially set up inspection point at Moore Park.  Six defect notices were handed to drivers with faulty vehicles and two investigations would be launched as a result of the operation, including an investigation into a truck allegedly carrying dangerous goods in the M5 east tunnel at Bexley.
   “This was the first in a number of operations we will be holding in coming months with NSW Police, the RTA, and other organisations,” Ms Corbyn said.
   “This route is a major connector for vehicles travelling in and out of the city from the east and the west and into the M5 east tunnel, where dangerous goods are not allowed.”
   Ms Corbyn said DEC officers tested for emissions, checked for illegal modification of noise and pollution devices, noise tested and examined the safety equipment, loads, placarding and documentation of all waste and hazardous goods vehicles.
   “The community and the industry need to know that we are vigilant in keeping noisy and smoky vehicles off the road, in making sure any hazardous chemicals are carried and disposed of safely in our cities, and in ensuring any waste is disposed of legally, not dumped somewhere or passed off cheaply as safe waste at suburban landfill sites.”
   Ms Corbyn said waste and dangerous goods laws were in place to protect road users, rescue crews and the environment.
   “These laws are very clear and there is no excuse for ignoring them,” she said.
   “Displaying required dangerous goods signs lets other people on the road know to keep their distance and warns emergency crews at the scene of an accident of the potential for explosion and release of toxic gases and the need for protective clothing and equipment.”

February 28, 2007
Independents Line Up For More Police
A group of NSW independent MPs would push for up to 3000 extra police officers in the event of a hung State parliament.
   According to Northern Tablelands MP, Richard Torbay, the independents have agreed to undertake a “constructive discussion” with both sides of Parliament in the next Parliamentary term, in which an assessment would be made on “what can be afforded”.
   Mr Torbay said he had not discussed exact numbers of police with the NSW Police Association which has been campaigning for an extra 3000 officers.
   President of the Association, Bob Pritchard said he was very pleased that the Independents had come out and supported the call for more police.
   “I’m not sure of the outcome of the next election, but we need to be able to get it out to the community, the need for more police, and through the [independent] candidates throughout the state, they will take it to them,” Mr Pritchard said.
   He once again challenged both the Government and Opposition to agree to an extra 3000 police.
   Premier, Morris Iemma is yet to outline his law and order policies for the 24 March  election, while Opposition Leader Peter Debnam has pledged an extra 1100 police if the coalition is elected.

February 28, 2007
Rural Women Flood Drought Event
Organisers of the International Women’s Day celebration at the Dubbo RSL Club say the event has attracted so much interest it is now completely sold out.
   Coordinator of the Department of Primary Industries’s Rural Women’s Network and event coordinator, Sonia Muir, said unfortunately the venue could not fit any more people.
   The 7 March event is designed as a break from the drought.
   “It is a chance for us to come together and celebrate women’s achievements locally and globally, while linking with other rural women and listen to inspiring speakers,” Ms Muir said.
   “We have had a great response and it is shaping up to be an interesting day and a chance for some time-out from the everyday pressures of drought.”
   Buses would be coming from across the region including Orange, Walgett, Harden, Blayney, West Wyalong, Wee Waa, Crookwell, Gunnedah, Cowra, Dungog and Nyngan. Many would also be picking up women along the way.
   A waiting list had been created for any possible cancellations and Ms Muir asked anyone who wanted to be wait-listed to call the RWN.
   The event is being sponsored by DPI’s drought support program and the Rural Women’s Network in partnership with Women Out West and the Premier’s Department’s Office for Women.

February 28, 2007
Foreign Correspondents Visit Lismore
The foreign correspondents of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, are the subject of a display and exhibition which opened recently at the City of Lismore Library.
   Celebrating the national broadcaster's long and continuing commitment to foreign news reporting, the travelling exhibition will be in Lismore until 14 April and covers the history of ABC foreign correspondents and foreign news bureaux from the 1930s to the present.
   Photos, audio and video from the archives, recollections by former correspondents and camera crews, historic and modern newsgathering equipment and memorabilia are all part of the display.
   The exhibition has already been on show in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Hobart, Canberra and Wagga Wagga.
           In 1932, the year the ABC first went on air as the national broadcaster, it also established an overseas presence. Since then, the ABC has become the largest overseas news gathering operation of any Australian radio or television broadcaster.
   ABC foreign correspondents live and work overseas in the countries and regions they report on, covering international news through Australian eyes.
   Many of the hundreds of ABC correspondents, camera crew and producers have gone on to become some of the best-known names in the Australian media

February 28, 2007
Councils Dodge Rubbish Sin Bin
The St. George Region of Councils have been given the go-ahead to tender and contract for waste and recycling collection services jointly without incurring the wrath of the competition watchdog.
   The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission intends granting an  authorisation to the Councils to do so in their Local Government areas until 30 June 2018.
   The ACCC authorisation would provide protection from court action for conduct or arrangements that might otherwise raise concerns under the competition provisions of the Trade Practices Act 1974.
   Chairman of the ACCC, Graeme Samuel, said authorisation was granted where the ACCC was satisfied that the benefit to the public from the conduct outweighed any public detriment.
   “The proposed conduct is likely to generate several public benefits,” Mr Samuel said.
   “In particular, the ACCC considers that the collective arrangements are likely to produce collection efficiencies which will result in cost savings for the councils and their ratepayers.”
   The St. George Region of Councils comprises Hurstville City Council, Kogarah Municipal Council and Rockdale City Council. One of the service functions of each council under the Local Government Act  is the provision, management and/or operation of domestic waste and recycling collection services.
   The ACCC considered that the anti-competitive detriment arising from the collective arrangements was likely to be minimal. The arrangements apply to only three out of 38 councils in the Sydney Metropolitan Area, and the ACCC understood that a further tender process would be conducted when the proposed contracts ended in 2018.

February 28, 2007
Teachers Win Post Office Stamp of Approval
Australia Post has announced that it has signed the NSW Teachers Credit Union as its first VIP Online Security customer.
   A low-cost, secure and convenient service, the inititaive enables financial institutions to implement strong, multi-factor, one time password security tokens for online banking authentication.
   Following the Australia Post and Ultradata Australia Pty Ltd partnership, NSW Teachers Credit Union has become the first financial institution to adopt this security as part of its existing Ultradata banking and internet banking software.
   The Manager of Authentication Services at Australia Post, Roger Lee, said the fact that one of the largest and most progressive credit unions in Australia had chosen VIP Online Security to provide an additional layer of protection for its members’ internet banking, was a significant stamp of approval for this new service.
   “As the first financial institution to adopt Australia Post VIP Online Security, NSW Teachers Credit Union is leading the way in protecting its members from the risks associated with online fraud and identity theft,” said Mr Lee.
   The Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Teachers Credit Union, Steve James, said it was an important milestone for their 140,000 members located throughout NSW, the ACT and Northern Territory.
   “As we do not have a branch network, they rely very heavily on the Internet to access their accounts,” Mr James said.
   “Obviously, security in online banking is our prime consideration and Australia Post’s two-factor state of the art authentication solution will provide our members with peace of mind when transacting over the internet.”
   Ultradata Chief Executive Officer, Peter Henshaw, said the announcement from NSW Teacher’s Credit Union is evidence that delivering a straightforward and cost effective multi-factor authentication solution would be well accepted by Australian financial institutions looking to provide the best tools possible to protect their customers.
   Australia Post’s VIP Online Security service complements the organisation’s growing suite of identity and verification services and continues its provision of a broad range of services to financial institutions in Australia, such as Bank@Post, POSTbillpay, In-Person Proofing and verifying identity for bank accounts.

February 28, 2007
School’s In For Student Counsellors
The Opposition has promised a dramatic increase in Government school counsellors if it is elected to Government, calling the move a “cornerstone of a new era in public school education”.
   Opposition Leader, Peter Debnam sadi the policy opened an “era of early intervention for Government school students and support for teachers through a massive increase in school counsellors in NSW schools.”
   He said he recognised  research that highlighted the critical consequences that flowed from a lack of counsellors.
   “There is only one counsellor to every 1,000 high school students and one counsellor to every 1,500 primary school students,” Mr Debnam said.
   He said the coalition would commit to providing 700 additional counsellors in its first term of Government and would ensure 280 new counsellors joined the early intervention challenge in schools.
   The coalition’s shadow Minister for School Education, Brad Hazzard said the new policy was additional to 200 additional teachers of English as a second language, already announced.
   “This announcement clearly depicts that a future Liberal/Nationals Government will herald a new era of early intervention,” Mr Hazzard said.
   “Currently teachers report that counsellors are so stretched in NSW schools that early intervention takes second place to the daily crisis management.”

February 28, 2007
Sport Aims High for Future
NSW Sport and Recreation, together with The Ryder Self Group, are developing the NSW sport and recreation industry strategic directions plan for the next five years.
   Following initial industry-wide consultation during 2006, a number of key issues and priorities for sport in NSW emerged. These have been captured and documented in a key issues discussion paper.
   This paper is now available for review.
   Sport and Recreation is calling for submissions from sports industry bodies to provide ideas on how to address the issues.
   Based on this feedback, together with some further industry workshops, the NSW sport and recreation industry strategic directions plan - a five year plan, will be developed.

February 28, 2007
Nuclear Body Issues Security Codes
The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency has released two codes of practice, one for security of radioactive sources and the other outlining safe use of fixed radiation gauges.
   Releasing the documents, ARPANSA said it had set out the security requirements to be implemented when dealing with a radioactive source to decrease the chance of unauthorised access to, or acquisition of, the radioactive source by those with malicious intent.
   It is intended the security code will be given the force of law by each State and Territory as well as  the Commonwealth, and administered by a regulatory authority in each jurisdiction as part of the framework governing the use of radiation.
   The code of practice and safety guide for fixed radiation gauges will provide a system for the safe use of fixed radiation gauges containing radioactive sources, x–ray tubes or neutron generator tubes.
   It replaces the Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Radiation Gauges (1982).
   Both publications were developed by ARPANSA’s Radiation Health Committee, as part of the Committee's role in formulating draft national policies, codes and standards for consideration by the Commonwealth, States and the Territories.
   Copies of the documents can be purchased from ARPANSA.

February 28, 2007
Gardens Plant New Centre in Macarthur
The new Macarthur Centre for Sustainable Living is expected to demonstrate sustainable living and show ways to minimise a the community’s impact upon the earth.
   Opened by the Botanic Gardens Trust and CERES Macarthur with funding from the Australian Government’s Sustainable Regions Program, the new information and education centre is a non-profit, community-driven organisation aiming at promoting sustainable homes and gardens.
   Since the late 10s the Botanic Gardens Trust has had plans for a Centre for Urban Horticulture to be based at the Mount Annan Botanic Garden and was spurred to action by Macarthur residents who form CERES Macarthur after being inspired by the CERES Community Environment Park in Victoria. The residents were supported by local councils and the Macarthur Regional Organisation of Councils.
   Together, the Botanic Gardens Trust and CERES Macarthur realised their common goals and became founding members of a new non-profit company called the Macarthur Centre for Sustainable Living, which began operations in January 2005.
   The new centre has conference facilities and café all with the latest in energy and water efficient devices providing practical examples of how to build new homes sustainably.
   The Centre’s ideal of sustainable living is to be promoted to the public through various programs and events including classes on natural cleaning, permaculture, sustainable homes and organic markets.
   A detailed program of events can be found on the Centre’s website at www.mcsl.org.au

February 28, 2007
Honeysuckle Developments Sweet
Two major developments in the Honeysuckle precinct of Newcastle worth a total of $75 million to the regional economy were also expected to provide up to 1200 local jobs according to Planning Minister, Frank Sartor.
   Mr Sartor said he had approved the Lee Wharf Stage 3 development application and a project application for a commercial office building – both on Honeysuckle Drive.
   “These projects will help to underpin employment growth in Newcastle – creating more local jobs for local workers,” Mr Sartor said.
   “The NSW Government will continue to support the Hunter economy through planning for jobs and housing growth and matching that with infrastructure.”
   Mr Sartor said the Honeysuckle developments were:
   a $40 million commercial office building proposal for two, seven-storey towers with more than 14,400 square metres of commercial space, 259 car parking spaces, a childcare centre for 50 children and landscaping; and
   the $35 million Lee Wharf Stage 3 project for three buildings comprising 86 residential units, more than 2,000 square metres of retail floor space and off-street car parking.
   Mr Sartor said Newcastle’s role as the region’s economic and cultural capital would strengthen as the Cities Taskforce plans were finalised.
   “Newcastle has a bright future, as strategic employment hubs such as the Honeysuckle precinct grow,” he said.
   “The NSW Government will work to ensure projects are assessed in consultation with the community and quality design is achieved.”
   He said both proponents were required to address issues such as building heights, heritage, storm water management, traffic and car parking during the assessment process.
   The commercial office building would achieve a 4.5 star rating under the Sustainable Energy Development Authority’s Australian Building Greenhouse Rating and the Lee Wharf 3 residential building would include water-saving showerheads, appliances with energy ratings of at least three stars and water conservation measures.

February 28, 2007
NZ Puts Money Where ANZSOG Is
The Australia and New Zealand School of Government has received part of a NZ$10 million grant from the New Zealand Government.
   Announced by the New Zealand Prime Minister, Helen Clark, the grant would be shared between ANZSOG and Victoria University of Wellington School of Government.
   ANZSOG will receive NZ$6 million, with the balance going to VUWSOG, a founding member of ANZSOG.
   Ms Clark said the grants were given to strengthen the trans-Tasman content of the ANZSOG academic and research programs, and to support academic and research programs and capability in New Zealand.
    In 2005, ANZSOG received $10 million grant from the Australian Government to continue to improve the skills of future public sector leaders and help build a whole-of-government culture.
   Dean of ANZSOG, Australian Professor Allan Fels, said New Zealand was important to ANZOG.
   “The School recognises the significance of strengthening trans-Tasman relations for the benefit of both Governments," Professor Fels said.
   "The capital grant is evidence of New Zealand’s investment in providing access to world-class education and research in public sector policy, management and administration that is applicable to New Zealand Public Servants.”
   “I am confident this investment from New Zealand along with Australia’s contribution will be of value to both Governments,” Professor Fels  said.
   ANZOG is a not-for profit consortium of Governments, universities and business schools dedicated to promoting outstanding public sector leadership and policy that works for the benefit of the public.
   It will hold its annual conference this year in Canberra on 28 and 29 June.

February 28, 2007
Climate Project Put Out to Pasture
The Department of Primary Industries has received a $246,000 climate action project grant from the NSW Government to study the role of pastures in locking up carbon under a range of management practices in central and southern NSW.
   Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald said the project was part of a wider $2.5 million climate research program, which would help the NSW Government achieve its aim of cutting greenhouse emissions by 60 per cent by 2050.
   A member of the project team and DPI Soil Physics Technical Officer, Albert Oates said the wider community was becoming increasingly aware of greenhouse gases and potential climate change so it was important the positive role of pastures in sequestering carbon within the soil be better understood and measured.
   “Keeping carbon in the soil as organic material reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere,” Mr Oates said.
   “And increasing soil organic material improves the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil.”
   He said Australian farmed soils were generally relatively low in soil organic carbon.
   “It’s not easy to accumulate organic material in a hot, dry climate under continuous cropping,” he said.
   “The pasture phase provides the opportunity to rebuild organic matter levels in the soil. Soils under permanent pasture may have the greatest potential to lock-up carbon dioxide as soil organic matter.”
   DPI’s three-year project would be led by Soil Physicist, Dr Yin Chan with input from Soil Chemist, Dr Mark Conyers; Modeller, Dr Deli Liu; Research Agronomist, Dr Guangdi Li; Soil Scientist, Dr Brian Murphy of DNR; and Mr Oates.
   A number of district agronomists from DPI would collaborate in the project, plus an additional technical officer, Ros Prangnell, who was recently recruited to work on the project.
   At this stage the researchers are keen to hear from farmers who may have paddocks with a known history suitable for inclusion in the study.
   “Of particular interest would be paired paddocks, which allow comparisons to be made,” Mr Oates said.
   “Examples include cropped versus old perennial pasture, annual pasture versus perennial and set-stocked versus rotationally grazed.
   “If a farmer has a paddock likely to be of very high organic carbon status that would also be of interest.”
   Dr Chan may be contacted on (02) 4588 2108 and Mr Oates on (02) 6938 1874.

February 21, 2007
Students to Cash In Credit for Past Study
Students enrolled in TAFE NSW’s Riverina Institute courses this year will have the opportunity to become qualified in a shorter time by applying for recognition of prior learning.
   Participants in any course at the Riverina Institute could apply for recognition of previous studies or experience relevant to the course they are studying and this might reduce the length of their course.
   According to the Institute’s Head of Studies, Gail Farran, the new arrangement   would allow students who might already have formal education or experience, either in the workplace or through life skills, to be recognised formally for those skills and that knowledge.
   Ms Farran said students could be eligible for anything from one subject to a complete qualification.
    “This is a fantastic way for people who already have substantial experience in their field, but want the qualification to back them,” said Ms Farran.
   Students who could take advantage of the recognition process, not only were able to get the qualification sooner, but could benefit from less cost.
   “By proving they can already do what is covered in the course students are able to fast track their way through the program, so they may complete a one or two year course in half the time.”
   Ms Farran urged students to speak with their teacher about gaining recognition, or for more information, to call her on 02 6058 2874 or email: riverina.recognition@tafensw.edu.au  

February 21, 2007
Training to be the Key to Unlocking PS Performance
International moves to improve the standard of Public Services across the globe are focusing on training in a two-prong attack being coordinated by the Commonwealth Association for Public Administration and Management, CAPAM.
   The 1,100 member organisation has embarked on a program of identifying Training and Development Institutes across the (formerly British) Commonwealth and then expanding on a number of initiatives to apply new skills and knowledge to the advancement of training in their Public Services.
   At a 2005 meeting in Delhi, India, the CAPAM members decided  to “significantly advance the dialogue, learning and the overall state of knowledge and practice” among its members and agreed that the first step would be to issue a Commonwealth Training and Development Institute Directory.
   Director of the Institutes Initiative, Margaret Saner from the United Kingdom  National School of Government, said the Directory would include contact details for each Institute as well as details of its strategic approach and operational model. She expected the Directory to be completed very soon.
   She said the second stage of the Initiative would then be an “Institutes Project” to build on the information gathered for the Directory to work towards a network of Training Institutes within the CAPAM membership.
   She said the five main issues to be addressed by the Initiative were:
   Engage and build political commitment;
   Connect to the policy and PS reform agendas;
   Create a culture of learning in the PS;
   Support learning for elected officials; and
   Move from individual to PS-wide learning.
   A high-level gathering is planned for Ghana late this year to advance the project, with much preparatory work to done in regions beforehand to ensure the meeting is a success.
   “The aspiration is to work towards a dynamic event where the sharing of challenges and successes will add to effectiveness and facilitate the enhancement of the role of Institutes in Public Service reform,” Mrs Saner said.

February 21, 2007
Climate Project Put Out to Pasture
The Department of Primary Industries has received a $246,000 climate action project grant from the NSW Government to study the role of pastures in locking up carbon under a range of management practices in central and southern NSW.
   Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald said the project was part of a wider $2.5 million climate research program, which would help the NSW Government achieve its aim of cutting greenhouse emissions by 60 per cent by 2050.
   A member of the project team and DPI Soil Physics Technical Officer, Albert Oates said the wider community was becoming increasingly aware of greenhouse gases and potential climate change so it was important the positive role of pastures in sequestering carbon within the soil be better understood and measured.
   “Keeping carbon in the soil as organic material reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere,” Mr Oates said.
   “And increasing soil organic material improves the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil.”
   He said Australian farmed soils were generally relatively low in soil organic carbon.
   “It’s not easy to accumulate organic material in a hot, dry climate under continuous cropping,” he said.
   “The pasture phase provides the opportunity to rebuild organic matter levels in the soil. Soils under permanent pasture may have the greatest potential to lock-up carbon dioxide as soil organic matter.”
   DPI’s three-year project would be led by Soil Physicist, Dr Yin Chan with input from Soil Chemist, Dr Mark Conyers; Modeller, Dr Deli Liu; Research Agronomist, Dr Guangdi Li; Soil Scientist, Dr Brian Murphy of DNR; and Mr Oates.
   A number of district agronomists from DPI would collaborate in the project, plus an additional technical officer, Ros Prangnell, who was recently recruited to work on the project.
   At this stage the researchers are keen to hear from farmers who may have paddocks with a known history suitable for inclusion in the study.
   “Of particular interest would be paired paddocks, which allow comparisons to be made,” Mr Oates said.
   “Examples include cropped versus old perennial pasture, annual pasture versus perennial and set-stocked versus rotationally grazed.
   “If a farmer has a paddock likely to be of very high organic carbon status that would also be of interest.”
   Dr Chan may be contacted on (02) 4588 2108 and Mr Oates on (02) 6938 1874.

February 21, 2007
AG Finds Deep Throat a Pain in the Neck
The Federal Attorney-General has blamed the States and Territories for delays in formulating new laws to protect the confidential sources of journalists.
   The AG, Philip Ruddock, said critics of the hold-up should be asking the States and Territories why they were experiencing delays in drafting and finalising the reforms.
   "I secured the State and Territory agreement to make these amendments at the April 2006 meeting of the Standing Committee of Attorneys-General,” Mr Ruddock said. “But I have yet to see the provisions which the States agreed to draft, for all jurisdictions to implement."
   He said the Commonwealth had consistently made its view known that there was a need for reform in this area.
   He said the Solicitor-General had made submissions on behalf of the Government to that effect during the Melbourne court proceedings involving Herald-Sun journalists Michael Harvey and Gerard McManus.
   "Legislating for confidential relationships privilege protection is part of a larger package of reforms which will implement Australian Law Reform Commission report on the uniform Evidence Act," Mr Ruddock said.
   He said he had encouraged all States and Territories to implement uniform evidence laws and would continue to pursue the reforms through the Standing Committee of Attorneys-General.
   "The Commonwealth is doing its part. It's up to the States to do theirs," he said.

February 21, 2007
Consumer Minister Hits Roof Over Building Repairers
Residents in the Campbelltown and Nepean areas have been to be wary of rip-off merchants looking to cash in on damage caused by the recent storms and wild weather.
   Fair Trading Minister, Dianne Beamer issued the warning she welcomed the soaking rain the storms produced but was concerned they also flushed out unscrupulous repairmen.
    “As Minister for Western Sydney, I welcome the soaking we’ve had over the past few days,” Ms Beamer said.“But Fair Trading experience has shown that when there are severe storms and rain like this, shonky builders, roof tilers and glaziers emerge in the hope of catching desperate home owners off guard.
   She said most of the “shonks” went door-to-door in storm-affected areas, offering a quick fix and often demanding upfront payment.
   “Sadly for the homeowner they often end up with second-rate materials and shoddy work that later needs more repairs.”
   Ms Beamer said builders and tradespeople caught operating without the appropriate licence could face fines of up to $22,000.
   “These rogue repairers prey on the need to fix problems quickly, but a single call to Fair Trading may save families financial loss and emotional heartache.”
   She said Fair Trading Centre staff could assist by:
   providing information on choosing suitable tradespeople to carry out repairs;
   checking that tradespeople offering to do work were properly licensed; and
   advising people in rented accommodation, and their landlords, about their rights and obligations.
   “Urgent storm damage repair can also be a major issue for landlords, tenants and real estate agents regarding responsibilities and compensation,” Ms Beamer said.
   “Landlords and tenants whose property has been affected by the recent bad weather are also encouraged to contact Fair Trading for information and advice.”
   For information or to check a licence go to the Fair Trading website at  www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au or call 13 32 20.

February 21, 2007
Police to Glow at Mardi Gras Fair Day
NSW Police’s theme for the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Fair Day this year is Strength, Diversity and Partnership.
   According to the Police, the theme represents strength through the achievements of the Force’s GLLO (Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officer – pronounced ‘glow’) program, as well as the show of strength on the streets promoting safety for the gay, lesbian and transgender community.
   Diversity celebrated the range of programs within the NSW Police Force that made for better policing for a community with a broad range of needs. Partnership represented the whole of Government and community approach to addressing those needs.
   The 2007 Mardi Gras season will culminate on 3 March with a night-time parade through the streets of Sydney.
   The NSW Police Force says it takes GLT issues extremely seriously and has made addressing crime against the gay, lesbian and transgender community a strong corporate priority. Local Area Commands with a large GLT population had recently embarked on internal training to improve police services to this area.
   Police stations across the state would be promoting “Strength, Diversity and Partnership” by displaying the GLT poster depicting a typical Fair Day tug of war between “Dykes on Bikes” and the NSW Police Force. Information directing community members to seek the assistance of a Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officer if required would be included on these posters.
   The GLLO stall would be attended by more than 15 GLLOs this year - one of the key messages of the day being “get to know your GLLO”. For those visiting the stall you can find stickers, tattoos and collector cards for the kids.
   For the seventh year in a row the Police Band would be playing at the Fair Day. The 10-piece band would take centre stage at lunch and play a mix of disco, pop and funk. The band’s playlist would include Respect, Lady Marmalade, Young Hearts Run Free and other popular hits.
   Spokesperson on Gay, Lesbian and Transgender issues, Superintendent Karen Webb, said the Police Force’s attendance at Fair Day was a great opportunity to once again highlight its commitment to working through strength, diversity and partnership to prevent violence and crime, as well as promote safety in the GLT community.

February 21, 2007
Harbour Celebrations Go to Water
Sydney Harbour Week will run from Friday 2 March to Sunday the 11th, and thousands are expected to swim, snorkel, sail, dive and explore the world’s most stunning harbour to celebrate.
    Coordinated by Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, Sydney Harbour Week includes more than 40 events that take place on and around the harbour over 10 days, and many of them are free.
   According to the organisers there’s plenty to see including the annual Sail Expo, the Wooden Boat Raft-up, the Audi Sydney Harbour Regatta and the Classic Ferry and Workboat Challenge.
   Parents are invited to treat the kids to a free Sydney harbour cruise or a day trip on the stunning Tall Ship, James Craig.  A great time is promised at the Active Fun Day at Leichhardt plus the chance to explore a Warrior Trail and enjoy a bush tucker picnic.
   Chowder Bay – considered one of the world’s richest marine environments is just waiting to be discovered and a series of guided tours will allow visitors to encounter the beauty and rich history of Sydney Harbour and some of its islands.
   There will also be the opportunity to explore the harbour’s top dive spots including Old Man’s Hat, Manly Cove and Flagstaff.
   Tours of North Head Fort will be held as well as the Harbour Swim Classic, the Bridge-to-Bridge swim and the North Sydney sailing cup.
   The week will culimnate on Sunday 18 March when special celebrations for the 75th Anniversary of the opening of Bridge will be held.
   Sydney Harbour Week is an initiative of Sydney Harbour Week Committee and is coordinated by the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority on behalf of the Australian National Maritime Museum, NSW Maritime, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Sydney Harbour Federation Trust and Sydney Ports Corporation.

February 21, 2007
King Street Court Gets Royal Treatment
A Courtroom in Sydney’s historic King Street Courts complex has received a $2.5 million restoration and upgrade to celebrate the 180th year of the Supreme Court.
   Attorney General, Bob Debus made the announcement saying state-of-the-art technology had also been installed into Court 1 to assist the efficiency of the Justice System.
   “The design team worked not only to restore the court to its original splendour,” Mr Debus said.  “But also updated the facility with innovations such as video-conferencing that the building’s colonial architects would not have dreamed possible.”
   He said video-conferencing technology would assist with security and financial concerns, particularly for defendants on remand as well as improving public safety and transport cost reduction.
   Among other upgrades, Mr Debus said disabled access had been made much easier.
   “People with disabilities have a right to proceed through the justice system with dignity,” he said.
   “A platform lift has been installed to provide easy access to the witness box and unnecessary steps have been eliminated from the Courtroom.”
   Mr Debus said a positive factor of the development was the low disturbance rate the construction caused.
   “The King Street complex hosted some of the State’s most serious and significant trials in 2006,” he said.  
   “To reduce noise disruptions, much of the work on Court 1 was done by hand rather than by machines.”
   Mr Debus said the restoration and upgrades had been a continuing process since 18, costing around $17 million.
   “This heritage-listed building is a cornerstone of the NSW justice system.
   “It has been operating for longer than just about any other Court in the State and its restoration is recognition of its position as one of the most significant buildings in Sydney’s CBD.”
   The neighbouring St James Road Court is to be the final Court to be upgraded and restored, with work to begin early in the next financial year. The full project is expected to be completed in March 2008.

February 21, 2007
New Wave of Protection for Submarine Cables
The protection zones for two submarine communications cables off the NSW coast could be widened under proposals being considered by the Australian Communications and Media Authority.
    As part of its consultation process, ACMA has learned of industry plans for new high capacity submarine cables into Sydney and was proposing to widen the protection zones in deeper waters beyond nine nautical miles off shore. ACMA plans to invite public submissions about its variation.
   “Widening the proposed protection zones in deeper water will better allow for future cables to be co-located within the protection zones,” said Chris Cheah, full-time ACMA member and Chairman of its NSW Protection Zone Advisory Committee.
   Mr Cheah said the two proposed protection zones were:
   A northern zone from Narrabeen beach to 40 nautical miles offshore, protecting the northern branches of the Australia-Japan Cable and the Southern Cross Cable and the area in between; and
   A southern zone extending from Tamarama and Clovelly beaches, extending 30 nautical miles offshore to protect the southern branches of the Australia-Japan Cable and the Southern Cross Cable and the area in between.
   “Having undertaken some preliminary consultation, we believe that enlarging each protection zone to include the area between the existing cable branches is unlikely to impact on many marine users,” Mr Cheah said.
    “Nonetheless, ACMA is keen to test this view and consult with all parties about the revised proposals. All views will be considered before ACMA finally declares the protection zones.”
   Within protection zones, activities that could damage the cables would be prohibited and heavy penalties would apply for breaches of the legislation.
   Details of the proposed changes including maps and coordinates are available on the ACMA website at www.acma.gov.au/subcables.
   The closing date for public comment is Friday 23 March.

February 21, 2007
Funding Grants Make Women’s Day
Women living in towns and cities in rural and remote areas across NSW are being encouraged to celebrate their achievements in events on or around International Women’s Day, 8 March 2007.
   The Minister for Women, Sandra Nori, has announced that 113 local Councils would each receive grants of up to $1,000 to organise community events in collaboration with local organisations and businesses to mark the Day.
   Ms Nori said this was a significant increase from the 78 Councils who applied and received funds last year.
   “The events on International Women’s Day celebrate the talents, generosity and achievements of women in our State,” Ms Nori said. “While there is still so much to do to achieve equality for women, these events also recognise the great strides which have already been made to improve the lives of women in NSW and Australia.”
   She said International Women’s Day provided an opportunity for communities to recognise and celebrate local women’s achievements and the contribution they continued to make to their area.
   This year’s theme, Valuing Difference, Leading Change encompassed the achievements women in NSW had made towards championing diversity, leading the community towards respect and responsibility, and exploring new directions in innovation.
   Past years’ events had included breakfasts, barbeques, art exhibitions, workshops, information stalls, awards presentations and guest speakers.
   Ms Nori said all events emphasised participation and community strengthening, while increasing the awareness of the inequalities that women faced in employment status, earnings, domestic violence and sexual assault.
   Last year’s activities attracted more than 11,000 participants.
   For a list of events this year go to www.women.nsw.gov.au/Working/events/events_list.htm

February 21, 2007
Rangers Blaze Trails for Firefighters
Fire management trails in Brisbane Water and Bouddi national parks are to be upgraded over the next two months.
   To be conducted by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the work is part of an annual maintenance program undertaken across the region.
   NPWS Regional Manager, Tom Bagnat said the upgrades were conducted on a regular basis across all national parks and reserves in the region to maintain safe access during fire operations.
   “Maintenance will be carried out on about 40km of trails in some of the area’s most rugged terrain,” Mr Bagnat said.
   “The work is extremely important to ensure access for fire fighting vehicles during fire operations, including hazard reduction burns and wildfire suppression.”
   He said a team of specialist NPWS staff assisted by contractors would undertake the project using heavy machinery to upgrade existing fire trails and construct new ones through the parks.
   “Fire trail construction and maintenance is one tool in the fire management toolbox,” he said.
   NPWS fire management also includes hazard reduction burning in the autumn and spring months, ongoing training of almost 900 firefighters, regular equipment upgrades and working with other fire agencies.
   “Fire trail maintenance in our national parks and reserves is extremely important to the safety of the local region,” Mr Bagnat said.
   “Every summer we see the devastating effects of bushfires on people, property and our native plants and animals.”
   With more than 10,000km of fire trails across the state, Mr Bagnat said national parks fire trails provided firefighters with fast and safe access to bushfires and played an important role during the fire season.
   “Fire management trails are also used extensively by bush walkers exploring the parks,” he said.
   “NPWS staff will also erect signs during the maintenance work to warn visitors to take extra care.”

February 21, 2007
Ballot Paves Way for Land Scope
The NSW Aboriginal Land Council has set up an Electoral Information Unit to assist Aboriginal people throughout the State who wish to take part in the peak body’s first state-wide elections since 19.
   The Electoral Information Unit has a free-call number – 1800 447 096 – to assist  those seeking information about the poll, to be held on 19 May.
   NSWALC says the Unit has already received dozens of calls.
   The Council is also conducting direct consultation with the office bearers and members of Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALC) about significant changes to the land rights system which flow from amendments made last year to the AboriginalLand Rights Act 1983.
   Council officers have embarked on a fourth round of community consultation relating to the Act, travelling around the State talking with Aboriginal people about the election which the Act prescribes.
   NSWALC says hundreds of people have already attended meetings in northern and central NSW, and the north and central coast.
   Further meetings are planned for Wagga Wagga, Narooma, Broken Hill and Sydney.
   While the telephone hotline is available for general inquiries it is very important that all LALC members are aware that their first port of call for individual inquiries about the status of their particular membership should be their relevant Local Aboriginal Land Council  Secretary.
   All LALC members need to have their names, addresses and date of birth registered on their individual LALC membership rolls before March 6 to be eligible to vote in the election.
   As the only remaining Aboriginal representative body on the eastern seaboard, NSWALC believes it crucial that the maximum number of eligible members vote in the State Council poll to ensure the best representation possible.

February 21, 2007
Valentine Vows Wowed‘Em at BDM
Valentines’ Day was busy at the NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages with 29 couples choosing to tie the knot in romantic ceremonies at registry offices in Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong.
   Sydney registry Marriage Officer, Marianne Lea said Valentine’s Day was always  a popular day to get married.
   “There is something really exciting and special about getting married on Valentine’s Day,” Ms Lea said.
   “This year we had to increase the number of marriage bookings in order to meet demand and it keeps getting bigger every year.”
   To celebrate the special day, each bride and groom received a long stem red rose and the commemorative pen they used in the ceremony.
   To find out more about getting married at the registry, visit www.bdm.nsw.gov.au.

February 21, 2007
Long Life is the Return on Capital
Residents of the national capital live longer but have fewer babies than the national average according to information released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
   In a report issued recently, the Bureau said the mostly Public Service residents of Canberra and the Australian Capital Territory enjoyed a higher life expectancy than residents of the other States and Territories with a boy born in the ACT during 2005 expecting to live 79.9 years and a girl to 84.0 years. The national expectations were 78.5 and 83.3 years respectively.
   The Bureau said the total fertility rate in the ACT in 2005 was the highest it had been since 15, at 1.65 births per woman. Nationally, the rate reached 1.81 births per woman in 2005.
   The number of births registered to ACT residents in 2005 was 4200.
   In addition, the standardised death rate for the ACT fell from 6.5 deaths per 1000 people to 5.6 in the decade to 2005.
   According to the Bureau, the two main underlying causes of death for ACT residents in 2004 were diseases of the circulatory system, such as heart attack or stroke (33 per cent) and neoplasms, such as lung cancer or melanoma (30 per cent).

February 21, 2007
Terrigal’s New Reef To Be Ship Shape
The Royal Australian Navy plans to sink the HMAS Adelaide off the NSW Central Coast so the Guided Missile Frigate can be used as a dive wreck.
   HMAS Adelaide is to be decommissioned late in 2007 at her home port in Rockingham, Western Australia, with handover to the NSW Government expected in early to mid 2008.
   The NSW Government has indicated that the preferred location for the site will be near Terrigal.
   Tourism projects which have previously used former RAN warships to establish dive wrecks have reportedly accrued annual revenues ranging from $2.4 million to $23 million to the significant benefit of local communities.
   In addition to the warship, the Commonwealth would contribute up to $3 million in funding toward the costs of preparing the ship for sinking.
   HMAS Adelaide was built in the United States and commissioned in the Royal Australian Navy on 15 November 1980 and is the second ship to carry this name.  The first was a light cruiser that served from 1922 to 1945.  HMAS Adelaide was the first guided missile frigate to be home ported in Western Australia.
   HMAS Adelaide participated in the 10/91 Gulf War as part of Operation Damask, Australia’s participation in the international coalition against Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait.  More recently, the ship was deployed for peacekeeping operations in East Timor in 19 and to the Persian Gulf as part of the International Coalition against Terrorism in 2001 and 2004.
   HMAS Adelaide is 138 metres long, displaces 4100 tonnes and has a crew of 184 as well as helicopter aircrew and maintainers.

February 21, 2007
Farms Still In the Swim Despite Drought
Australia’s agricultural sector was sufficiently internationally competitive to survive the current drought according to Austrade Chief Economist, Tim Harcourt.
   “The Australian farm sector may be historically small in terms of size, but it is very efficient by world standards,” Mr Harcourt said.
   “(It is) still a substantial contributor to Australia’s export effort.”
   He said the wider export impact of the drought was not as severe as it could be due to a number of factors.
   “Firstly, we’re experiencing a drought at the same time as a resources boom.  Hence, the fall in rural exports, because of drought-related decreases in supply, are coming at the same time as strong growth in resources exports
   “Second, the rural sector was not as large as it used to be.”
   Mr Harcourt said Commonwealth Bank research showed the farm sector accounted for around three per cent of total output with a similar share of total national employment, although it still accounted for a fifth of Australia’s exports.
   "Thirdly, the flip-side of the reduction of the farm sector’s share of national economic output and employment is that it’s made significant gains in efficiency and productivity.
   "Accordingly, it’s been able to survive past droughts as well as sharp swings in exchange rates and commodity prices.”
   Mr Harcourt said a fourth factor was that the financial fall-out of the drought had not been as large as is in the past. 
   Programs such as the Farm Management Deposit scheme and altered taxation arrangements allowed farmers to make deposits when earnings were high, so they could draw them down when earnings were low, he said.
   Transport subsidies and drought relief schemes were also helping the worse-affected areas. 
   “Fifthly, the economic diversity of rural and regional Australia has helped," Mr Harcourt said. 
   "Whilst there are obvious knock-on effects for rural businesses who service the farm sector, many regional Australian economies have a range of export oriented industries that service mining, manufacturing and professional services businesses as well,” he said.

February 21, 2007
NSW Fisheries Thrown New Management Line 
A new era for NSW’s major commercial fisheries has begun with an innovative new framework for managing commercial fisheries across NSW.
   According to the Department of Primary Industries Manager of  Fisheries Planning and Operations, Andrew Goulstone the new framework marks an historic milestone for commercial fishing in NSW.
   “From today, the Estuary General, Estuary Prawn Trawl, Ocean Hauling, Ocean Trap and Line and Ocean Trawl commercial fisheries will operate under new share management and licensing arrangements,” Mr Goulstone said.
   He said the new reforms had been developed in consultation with the commercial fishing industry over the past two years.
   “Under previous schemes, which have been in place for more than 100 years, commercial fishers were issued with an annual renewable licence that could be cancelled without compensation,” he said.
   “Share management is a fair system that provides fishers with a secure access right in the form of shares, and greater flexibility to adjust their businesses through share trading.”
   Mr Goulstone said the changes would mean an improved setting for longer term investment, better fishing practices and less red tape.
   “Fishers have been issued a certain type and number of shares depending on their past participation in the industry,” he said.
   “The formula for issuing shares was set in 2004 following an extensive consultation process involving the whole of industry.”
   Mr Goulstone said around 1400 fishing business owners would benefit from the new share management scheme and streamlined licensing arrangements.
   “The commercial fisheries for abalone and lobster are already share managed, while the Inland, Sea Urchin & Turban Shell and Southern Fish Trawl fisheries will remain as Restricted Fisheries for the immediate future,” he said.
   “DPI is committed to working with industry and other stakeholders to build a sustainable and viable future for our commercial fisheries.  Share management lays the foundation for better resource planning and use.”
   More details about the reforms are available from www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries

February 14, 2007
Terrigal’s New Reef To Be Ship Shape
The Royal Australian Navy plans to sink the HMAS Adelaide off the NSW Central Coast so the Guided Missile Frigate can be used as a dive wreck.
   HMAS Adelaide is to be decommissioned late in 2007 at her home port in Rockingham, Western Australia, with handover to the NSW Government expected in early to mid 2008.
   The NSW Government has indicated that the preferred location for the site will be near Terrigal.
   Tourism projects which have previously used former RAN warships to establish dive wrecks have reportedly accrued annual revenues ranging from $2.4 million to $23 million to the significant benefit of local communities.
   In addition to the warship, the Commonwealth would contribute up to $3 million in funding toward the costs of preparing the ship for sinking.
   HMAS Adelaide was built in the United States and commissioned in the Royal Australian Navy on 15 November 1980 and is the second ship to carry this name.  The first was a light cruiser that served from 1922 to 1945.  HMAS Adelaide was the first guided missile frigate to be home ported in Western Australia.
   HMAS Adelaide participated in the 10/91 Gulf War as part of Operation Damask, Australia’s participation in the international coalition against Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait.  More recently, the ship was deployed for peacekeeping operations in East Timor in 19 and to the Persian Gulf as part of the International Coalition against Terrorism in 2001 and 2004.
   HMAS Adelaide is 138 metres long, displaces 4100 tonnes and has a crew of 184 as well as helicopter aircrew and maintainers.

February 14, 2007
NPWS Fire Strategy is Burning Issue
The National Parks and Wildlife Service has called for comments from the public on a draft fire management plan for Tallaganda National Park and State Conservation Area now on public exhibition.
   The total area of the two reserves was about 22,000 hectares located along the Great Dividing Range, halfway between Queanbeyan and Braidwood.
   NPWS South West Slopes Regional Manager, Steve Horsley, said the strategy was a blueprint for the management of fire in the two reserves over the next five years.
   “Fire has been a constant feature64 of the Australian landscape for millennia and so the community needs to develop plans for its management,” Mr Horsley said.
   “These reserves are relatively new having been created in 2001. They were established because of their importance for the conservation of significant communities of plant and animal life. Both reserves are home to numerous endangered species.”
   Mr Horsley said the draft fire management strategy was aimed primarily at identifying the best way to manage fire for the benefit of the reserves as well as the community.
   “First among its objectives is to limit the potential for fires, which begin within the park, to escape from park boundaries,” he said.
   “The strategy also considers how best to manage fire so as to enhance the biodiversity values for which it was established.  The strategy identifies priorities for fuel management and fire trail maintenance requirements.”
   Anyone with an interest in the management of fire within these reserves needs to have a look at the plan by February 23 and written comments were encouraged.
   The draft fire management plan for Tallaganda National Park and State Conservation Area can be viewed at the Queanbeyan NPWS office or Rural Fire Service offices in Queanbeyan and Braidwood. It can also be found on the NPWS website.

February 14, 2007
DoCS Homes in on Tamworth Foster Parents
Twenty-seven Tamworth residents have offered to open their hearts and homes to help care for children and young people who can’t live with their families.
   The Department of Community Services, Northern Regional Director, Susan Priivald said it was fantastic the carers had answered the call to help look after children and young people in the area.
   “In Tamworth we always need more foster carers, both short and long-term,” Ms Priivald said.
   “If you can’t look after a child fulltime you can still help by becoming a respite carer and giving another carer a break.”
   She said DoCS’ groundbreaking Spotlight on Safety report found that over 80 per cent of people had never considered respite care so it was important that they realise the number of options available when becoming a foster carer.
   Ms Priivald said the bigger the pool of foster carers, the more likely DoCS would be able to match each child to a carer or family who understood their individual needs.
   A team of new foster carers have started their training course after being assessed as suitable candidates over the last three months.
   Ms Priivald said the course was based on the training package, Shared Stories, Shared Lives, which was designed to give prospective carers realistic information about fostering.
   She said the package was also designed to help carers understand how children’s life experiences affected their behaviour and their capabilities.
   Ms Priivald said the recent State Government announcement about increases in foster carer allowances meant carers would now receive more financial support.
   “DoCS has increased standard payments for foster carers looking after young people aged 14-17 to $564 per fortnight, an increase of $190.  For children aged 5-13 years, the allowance has increased by $46 a fortnight to $420,” she said.
   “DoCS provides foster carers with ongoing training and caseworker support to help them look after a child.”
   For more information on foster care call DoCS’ Foster Care Recruitment Line on 1800 011 110, between 7am to 10pm, seven days a week or visit www.community.nsw.gov.au

February 14, 2007
Nailing Down the Standard Funeral
The difficult and emotional task of arranging a funeral is set to be made simpler and fairer by the introduction of a “standard funeral” and the elimination of hidden costs and charges.
   Fair Trading Minister, Diane Beamer, said the Government would introduce an “information standard” requiring funeral directors to outline all costs and services clearly, simply and upfront.
   “I am concerned that consumers have to make difficult financial decisions at a time when they are under the dual stresses of a recent bereavement and time pressures,” Ms Beamer said.
   “Under the Information Standard, funeral directors would be required to provide a definition and cost breakdown of a ‘standard’ funeral.”
   She said funeral directors would also be required to provide a written itemised quote for all products and services to be supplied at the first meeting with the consumer, thereby eliminating the possibility of hidden costs and charges surfacing at a later time.
   “The Parliamentary Inquiry into the funeral industry found that consumers’ greatest concern was the adequacy and transparency of information provided by funeral directors,” Ms Beamer said.
   The information standard will require funeral directors to provide:
   the definition of a “standard” funeral including all its components and fees
   the fees and descriptions of any components of a funeral outside the “standard funeral”
   an itemised written quote to be supplied to a consumer at the first meeting
   price information on all components of the funeral be provided to a consumer over the telephone if requested.
   The definition of a Standard Funeral would include:
   a single service carried out at a crematorium or graveside but not including a Church service
   the funeral service would be conducted during normal working hours within  30 kilometres of the funeral home.
   transport and labour to remove the body from the place of death to the approved mortuary and then to the place of internment
   a basic coffin
   mortuary costs including labour to adequately prepare body for a single service funeral but not to a standard appropriate for a viewing
   burial and cremation fees charged by the crematorium or cemetery
   the funeral director’s professional fee for a single service funeral 
   provision of the necessary legal or medical certificates required to cremate or bury a person.
   “We have worked hard with the funeral industry and consumer groups in developing the information standard,” Ms Beamer said.
   The Executive Director of the Funeral Directors Association of NSW, Ken Chapman said the industry did not see any problems with the proposals for greater transparency.
   “Most of our members already provide this service and most of our members also offer the option of a standard funeral,” Mr Chapman said.

February 14, 2007
Farms Still In the Swim Despite Drought
Australia’s agricultural sector was sufficiently internationally competitive to survive the current drought according to Austrade Chief Economist, Tim Harcourt.
   “The Australian farm sector may be historically small in terms of size, but it is very efficient by world standards,” Mr Harcourt said.
   “(It is) still a substantial contributor to Australia’s export effort.”
   He said the wider export impact of the drought was not as severe as it could be due to a number of factors.
   “Firstly, we’re experiencing a drought at the same time as a resources boom.  Hence, the fall in rural exports, because of drought-related decreases in supply, are coming at the same time as strong growth in resources exports
   “Second, the rural sector was not as large as it used to be.”
   Mr Harcourt said Commonwealth Bank research showed the farm sector accounted for around three per cent of total output with a similar share of total national employment, although it still accounted for a fifth of Australia’s exports.
   "Thirdly, the flip-side of the reduction of the farm sector’s share of national economic output and employment is that it’s made significant gains in efficiency and productivity.
   "Accordingly, it’s been able to survive past droughts as well as sharp swings in exchange rates and commodity prices.”
   Mr Harcourt said a fourth factor was that the financial fall-out of the drought had not been as large as is in the past. 
   Programs such as the Farm Management Deposit scheme and altered taxation arrangements allowed farmers to make deposits when earnings were high, so they could draw them down when earnings were low, he said.
   Transport subsidies and drought relief schemes were also helping the worse-affected areas. 
   “Fifthly, the economic diversity of rural and regional Australia has helped," Mr Harcourt said. 
   "Whilst there are obvious knock-on effects for rural businesses who service the farm sector, many regional Australian economies have a range of export oriented industries that service mining, manufacturing and professional services businesses as well,” he said.

February 14, 2007
Free Tours of Ku-Ring-Gai of Fire
Visitors to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park this month can join a free guided tour of the fire ground and learn how the fire was fought and how the bushland is now recovering.
   National Parks and Wildlife Service regional manager Chris McIntosh said the tours were a great opportunity to safely see parts of the burnt out park and learn about the fire fighting effort from those who were involved.
   “You will see how the fire that on 21 January jumped the F3 and moved into the park dramatically changed parts of the landscape,” Mr McIntosh said.
   “A team of people from the agencies who battled the flames will guide visitors through scorched areas and talk about the effort to control the blaze and save the Kalkari Discovery Centre.”
   Visitors would also get an insight into the sophisticated fire fighting operation that was in place which included the use of boats and helicopters to drop fire-fighters into remote areas. They would look at the plants and trees that were burnt and discuss how they would rejuvenate and take advantage of their new conditions.
   “I really encourage people to take the time to understand how fire affects our country and hear about some of the techniques used when it breaks out.” Mr McIntosh said.
   The tours are free (although park entry fees apply) and will run from 10am until noon.  Bookings are essential and can be made by calling 9472 9300.

February 14, 2007
NSW Fisheries Thrown New Management Line 
A new era for NSW’s major commercial fisheries has begun with an innovative new framework for managing commercial fisheries across NSW.
   According to the Department of Primary Industries Manager of  Fisheries Planning and Operations, Andrew Goulstone the new framework marks an historic milestone for commercial fishing in NSW.
   “From today, the Estuary General, Estuary Prawn Trawl, Ocean Hauling, Ocean Trap and Line and Ocean Trawl commercial fisheries will operate under new share management and licensing arrangements,” Mr Goulstone said.
   He said the new reforms had been developed in consultation with the commercial fishing industry over the past two years.
   “Under previous schemes, which have been in place for more than 100 years, commercial fishers were issued with an annual renewable licence that could be cancelled without compensation,” he said.
   “Share management is a fair system that provides fishers with a secure access right in the form of shares, and greater flexibility to adjust their businesses through share trading.”
   Mr Goulstone said the changes would mean an improved setting for longer term investment, better fishing practices and less red tape.
   “Fishers have been issued a certain type and number of shares depending on their past participation in the industry,” he said.
   “The formula for issuing shares was set in 2004 following an extensive consultation process involving the whole of industry.”
   Mr Goulstone said around 1400 fishing business owners would benefit from the new share management scheme and streamlined licensing arrangements.
   “The commercial fisheries for abalone and lobster are already share managed, while the Inland, Sea Urchin & Turban Shell and Southern Fish Trawl fisheries will remain as Restricted Fisheries for the immediate future,” he said.
   “DPI is committed to working with industry and other stakeholders to build a sustainable and viable future for our commercial fisheries.  Share management lays the foundation for better resource planning and use.”
   More details about the reforms are available from www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries

February 14, 2007
Winning Authors to Make History
Nominations are invited  for the NSW Premier’s History Awards for 2007.
   The awards, conducted in association with the History Council of NSW, were first presented in 17 to honour distinguished achievement in history by Australian citizens and permanent residents of Australia.
   Works accepted for nomination include published books and e-books, films, television and radio programs, CD-ROM, DVD and website formats.
   All works must have been published, produced, performed or made publicly available between 11 March 2006 and 9 March 2007.
   The closing date for the nomination of all entries is 16 March 2007.
   The following awards, each with a prize of $15,000, are offered in 2007:
   The Australian History Prize for a major published book or e-book on Australian history. Entries should address subjects of national significance.
   The General History Prize for a major published book or e-book on international history. Entries may address aspects of Australia’s place in world history, but it is expected that they will focus primarily on international subjects.
   The Community and Regional History Prize for a published book or e-book that makes a significant contribution to the understanding of Australian community, institutional or regional history.
   The Young People’s History Prize for a published book or e-book, film, television or radio program, CD-ROM, DVD or website – fiction or non-fiction – that increases the understanding and appreciation of history by children and young adults. Entries must be based on sound historical research and encourage further exploration of the past.
   The Audio/Visual History Prize for an Australian historian’s interpretation of an historical subject, using non-print media. Entries could include a feature64-length fiction film, a documentary film, a documentary for radio or television, a CD-ROM, DVD, website or other form of multimedia.
   The John and Patricia Ward History Prize for Use of Archives in Writing History is for a published book or e-book about Australian history, which uses unpublished original materials – rather than published primary and secondary sources – in the research and writing of history. This award was established by, and is sponsored by, State Records NSW in memory of historian John Manning Ward, who encouraged his students of Australian history to use unpublished original materials, and his wife, the teacher and librarian Patricia Bruce Ward, who contributed to the preservation of local government archives in NSW.
   For more information about the awards go to www.arts.nsw.gov.au

February 14, 2007
Attorney Puts Case for Less Red Tape
The Commonwealth Attorney-General, Philip Ruddock has welcomed a call by the Business Council of Australia for the States to cut red tape on business.
   “Reducing unnecessary regulation on business is an important step to ensure that we lock in our economic prosperity," said Mr Ruddock.
   “I have been pursuing a harmonisation agenda with the States and Territories with the goal of reducing the ridiculous inconsistencies and contradictions in State laws that impact on business.”
   Mr Ruddock said there were different privacy and conveyancing laws across Australia and 70 pieces of legislation covering personal property securities.
   "They include confusing and complex methods to protect people taking loans out over personal property," he said. "There are also different laws for statutory declarations and powers of attorney."
   He said all the differences led to increased business costs and increased prices for consumers yet the Australian economy was no longer segmented into States and Territories the way it was at Federation.
   He said goods and people moved freely across borders and the law should reflect that.
   Mr Ruddock said national systems would simplify everyday transactions and provide significant benefits for business and consumers.

February 14, 2007
Multicultural Honour is Molto Bene
A young Sydney man who has spent years helping the children at Villawood Detention Centre has been named the 2006 Community Relations Commission Volunteer of the Year.
   Gary Taylor of Fairfield has established many programs targeting children and youth including the “Kids for Kids” Program and the Australian League of Immigration Volunteers program which now has 300 volunteers.
   His initiatives also extended support to the adults in the detention centres by engaging them in English classes and recreational nights that have had a remarkable impact on their mental and physical health.
   The winners of the 2006 CRC Voluntary Awards were announced at a ceremony in Parliament House Sydney by the Speaker, John Aquilina.
   Congratulating Mr Taylor, the Chair of the Community Relations Commission, Stepan Kerkyasharian , said he was a “true hero who helped kids caught in a terrible situation through absolutely no fault of their own.”
   Meanwhile another Sydney man who unselfishly helped both young people and the elderly in south western Sydney has been named winner of the 2006 CRC Community Service Award.
   Sam Nguyen of Lakemba has contributed enormously to the wellbeing of the disadvantaged elderly members of the community, particularly the Vietnamese Community, by volunteering with the St Vincent De Paul Society and, more recently at the Vietnamese Senior Association of Canterbury.
   The 2006 CRC Young Volunteer Award was given to Malikham Angelique Vongsaya , of Greenfield Park, in recognition of her outstanding achievement in the Lao Community.
   The 2006 CRC Lifetime Achievement in Community Sector was shared this year by Besir Kerasu of Auburn and Bawa Singh Jagdev of Austral.
   Mr Kerasu has devoted his life to the service of the Turkish community having worked as a volunteer relentlessly for the last 24 years and Mr Jagdev contributed immensely to the Sikh community by developing many education, religious and cultural programs. He was instrumental in establishing the first religious place of worship for the Sikh Community along with weekend language schools.

February 14, 2007
Ambulance Gives Volunteers a Lift
The Ambulance Service of NSW will be one organisation taking time out on NSW Health Volunteers Appreciation Day on 16 February to thank its team of volunteers.
   “Volunteers are our quiet achievers who go about their business providing support to their community and their colleagues. On behalf of the staff and the community of New South Wales, I thank our volunteers for their ongoing commitment.” Greg Rochford, Chief Executive for Ambulance said.
   “We have a wide range of volunteers who play an important part in the delivery of prehospital care and patient welfare. These volunteers include Honorary Ambulance Officers, Peer Support Officers, Chaplains and Consumer Representatives”.
   The range of duties for Ambulance volunteers might include:
   First response to incidents in remote areas of NSW.
   Providing a 24-hour early intervention service to colleagues who experience stress as a result of exposure to traumatic workplace incidents.
   Providing pastoral care and spiritual support to employees, patients and their families.
   Ensuring community views are considered by Ambulance, through valuable feedback on proposed initiatives.

February 14, 2007
Farmers’ Panel to Dig Around Land Issues
An independent enquiry into rural land use in the Central West has been proposed by the Government as a means of listening to the community and local councils.
   To be made up of an independent panel of four experts headed by former National Party Minister and local member Garry West, the enquiry plans to invite community members to public hearings in the Central West region over the next three months.
   The panel will also include Jock Laurie from the NSW Farmers’ Association; Bill Gillooly from the Local Government and Shires Association of NSW; and Gabrielle Kibble, Liverpool City Council Administrator, Sydney Water Chairwoman and a former Department of Planning Director-General.
   “The issue of rural land use is one of the most important planning issues facing NSW at the moment,” said Planning Minister Frank Sartor. “Particularly as the drought drags on.”
   “There are no magic answers, but I hope this independent panel will help us work towards some sensible, balanced solutions.”
   Mr Sartor said he had met with the Local Government and Shires Association and the NSW Farmers’ Association and both organisations agreed this was a pressing issue.
   He said the decision was made after strong representations by Country Labor MPs, including Member for Bathurst, Gerard Martin.
   Mr Martin said he had repeatedly raised the issue with Ministers because the way land was managed was critical to the region’s future.
   “Rural planning issues are very different to those in metropolitan areas and I congratulate both Ministers for recognising this fact,” Mr Martin said.
   The panel will be supported by a stakeholder reference group including:
   The Mayors of all 13 Central West Councils – Bathurst, Blayney, Cabonne, Cowra, Dubbo, Forbes, Lithgow, Mid-Western Regional, Oberon, Orange, Parkes, Weddin and Wellington councils;
   Department of Planning;
   Department of Primary Industries;
   Department of Natural Resources; and
   Central West and Lachlan Catchment Management Authorities.
   Mr Sartor emphasised that the Government had never endorsed in a one-size-fits-all approach to rural land use.
   “We have always been adamant that local land use should be determined on local factors and conditions,” Mr Sartor said.

February 14, 2007
PEO Blueprint to Make State Plan Work
The Public Employment Office has been given approval to develop a more comprehensive workforce strategy to support the NSW State Plan.
   The Chief Executives’ Committee of the NSW Premier’s Department said the new strategy should reflect major lead and partner agency-based workforce planning initiatives. The PEO is to consult on the shape of this strategy over the coming months.
    An underlying theme of the State Plan relates to the skills needed to deliver on the Government’s priorities in the context of skill shortages, especially in rural and regional areas, in front line services and in the face of an ageing workforce.
   The PEO’s focus on workforce planning and capability development in the last few years has placed the Office in a good position to further develop strategies that support the State Plan.
   Some current initiatives relevant to planning and skill development include:
   * Developing a core set of public sector capabilities to underpin recruitment, training and performance management;
   * Developing a more efficient job evaluation process;
   * Assisting agencies to customise the workforce projections model for their workforce needs;
   * Developing more streamlined and effective recruitment and redeployment processes and strategies for promoting the public sector as an employer of choice.
   All of these major projects were supported by consultation processes with agencies.
   The PEO was also developing proposals for implementing specific sector wide commitments in the State Plan including:
   * the new graduate recruitment program;
   * a new performance management/climate survey;
   * a new CEO performance agreement and review process.

February 14, 2007
Ferries To Welcome Couple of Queens
Sydney Ferries will provide a warm welcome when two Queens come to Sydney later this month.
   The two grand ladies of the sea, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth 2, are due to arrive in Sydney on Tuesday 20 February.
   Interested sight-seers are invited to board Sydney Ferries’ Lady Herron for a morning cruise to welcome the Queen Mary 2 as she enters Sydney Harbour and an evening cruise to see the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth 2 pass by each other on the harbour.
   The last time two Cunard Queens called into Sydney was during World War II when the original Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth made joint visits as troop carriers in 1941 and 1942.
   The evening cruise will feature64 commentary from Sydney Ferries veteran Mel Mayer, and live jazz from the Allan Ward Jazz Band.
   All cruises depart Wharf 4, Circular Quay and tickets are available from Sydney Ferries ticket offices at Circular Quay. Food and drinks are available on board.
   For more information visit www.queenmary2.com.au

February 14, 2007
Surfside Estate In the Pipeline
A blueprint for a new $100 million town centre and residential subdivision at Vincentia on the NSW South Coast has been given the green light by Planning Minister, Frank Sartor.
   Mr Sartor said more than a third of the 127-hectare site would be set aside for permanent conservation – three times the area currently zoned for conservation.
   “This $100 million project is expected to deliver almost 500 permanent new jobs for the South Coast,” Mr Sartor said.
   “This is a major investment in the regional economy that will also provide more services and facilities for the local community, including health, child care and retail.
   “The new village at Vincentia will be a significant urban expansion in the Jervis Bay region.  The proponent, Stockland, must also hold a design excellence competition for the district town centre to ensure a high-quality development that meets the area’s needs.”
   The concept plan approved by the Government allows for a 604-lot residential subdivision; a new district town centre with up to 33,000 square metres of floor space including a shopping centre, medical centre, child-care facility, restaurants and commercial and bulky good retailing; and adaptable housing adjacent to the Bay and Basin Leisure Centre.
   Mr Sartor said he had also approved a project application for the first stage of the concept plan, allowing the residential subdivision to proceed.
   “The site is adjacent to the Jervis Bay National Park and has been subject to negotiations between the developer and the Department of Environment and Conservation  over several years.
   “This outcome follows a comprehensive assessment by the Department of Planning and delivers a significant increase in conservation land on the site.”
   He said it would help protect the habitat of several threatened species, including the glossy black cockatoo and the Eastern Pygmy possum, as well as the endangered swamp sclerophyll forest.
   The project also required approval from the Federal Government under Commonwealth threatened species legislation.
   Other conditions of approval to protect flora and fauna and water quality and address bushfire hazards include a 25-metre ecological buffer around the habitat of both the native Jervis Bay Leek Orchid and the wasps that pollinate it (which will exclude Asset Protection Zones and infrastructure); fencing of the conservation area; consultation with the local Council to determine appropriate Water Sensitive Urban Design measures; regular water quality monitoring; and a  site survey to establish a clear boundary between environmental lands and development areas.
   The e developer will also have to carry out a further traffic impact assessments to identify any necessary road upgrade works following each stage of the town centre development

February 14, 2007
Ombudsman Puts Police Through DNA Testing
A review of police DNA sampling by the NSW Ombudsman has found irregularities and inaccuracies in procedures and records that in at least one case led to an innocent man being sent to jail.
   Following a four-year review, Ombudsman Bruce Barbour found however that the police generally exercised their powers with due regard to individual rights but that the complexity of the law had led to some mistakes being made.
   “The complexity of the legislation means that it can be difficult for police officers to comply with their obligations,” Mr Barbour said.
   “While thousands of police officers are accredited, a lack of practice means many are unfamiliar with some of the requirements.”
   He recommended simplifying some aspects of the law and creating specialist cells within police command areas to deal with DNA sampling on a more regular basis.
   In his review the Ombudsman also uncovered examples of inconsistencies between police records and laboratory records, resulting in the wrong people being charged with offences.
   “In one case this led to a man being convicted for offences he did not commit,” The Ombudsman said.
   “Having inaccurate information on the DNA database or the police computer system can have serious implications for the administration of justice.
   “It will also dent public confidence in the use of DNA evidence in the investigation and prosecution of crime.’
   Mr Barbour also reflected on the growing importance of DNA testing in the administration of justice, pointing out an “ever increasing” number of samples being required by police which was leading to long delays in analysis.
    “This has resulted in a large backlog, court delays, and concerns about evidence of potential significance remaining unexamined.”
   He said while outsourcing and other strategies were being trialled to counter the delays, Mr Barbour recommended the Government give some thought to the future of DNA analysis and consider the appropriate level of funding, independence and research.
   The Ombudsman’s full report can be access at www.nswombudsman.nsw.gov.au

February 14, 2007
Electoral Commission Has Jobs For Vote People
The NSW Electoral Commission is preparing a register of people interested in temporary employment as election officials and clerical assistants at the upcoming March State Election.
   According to NSWEC, conducting a State election was a large-scale logistical exercise within a legal environment and with strict timeframes. The Commission had to ensure that the 4.2 million NSW electors were able to vote at 2500 polling places established right across the State.
    Election officials work at polling places on election day and 93 returning officers manage the election. Extensive administrative arrangements were necessary to recruit, train, equip, supervise and pay the election workforce at election time.
   The first step towards being appointed to the NSWEC team to assist with the  election is to submit an Expression of Interest which goes to the local returning officer for assessment.
   Prior electoral experience is not necessary and people recruited to work in polling places should have excellent customer service skills and the patience to undertake repetitive duties over a long period.
   Clerical assistants who work in a Returning Officer’s office should have experience in an office environment, the ability to undertake tasks quickly and accurately and the ability to work under minimum supervision. Clerical assistants must also be experienced in the use of Microsoft Office.
   For more information contact the NSW electoral Office
   The NSWEC says that employment will only be offered to persons enrolled to vote in NSW.