During the past few weeks we have seen several programs axed and the re-direction of funds by the CanDo team in an effort to reduce Government spending as per the election promise made.
While I applaud their intention, the methodology is not workable.
Removing programs which create healthy populations will simply move the spending requirements to other sectors such as Police, Emergency Services and the mental and physical health departments of our hospitals and outpatient services. Almost all programs axed within the health sector are proven ones which are most effective as preventative services, thereby halting the progress of health related issues and leading to long term health and well-being.
This would fairly obviously then have the flow on effect of alleviating the current health crisis, placing less pressure on our hospitals. The instances of poor mental and physical health on friends and relatives is also well documented and prevention would also place less stress on those supporting the person in question which would further alleviate pressure on our health services.
This all makes perfect sense.
Why then would the State Government choose to remove Sisters Inside, the Healthy Communities service, distance itself from the National Disability Insurance Scheme and remove Frontline services from our local hospital The Cairns Base?
The cost of each of these varies but the cost of NOT doing these programs or facilitating the services will in future years be substantially more than any savings made today.
I am tired of sitting idly by while these programs fall by the wayside. Expressing disappointment online and via conversations with friends. It's time to get pro-active.
Those who have chosen to make these decisions were elected by this population but our input does not stop with an election. They are OUR representatives. They work for us. That means we are perfectly entitled to let them know when we are unhappy with a decision made, or with a direction taken. It does not mean that we are entitled to attack them as people.
It is the choices and the policy that is up for scrutiny. Only when it concerns us directly is the personality of the politician under attack. In this instance, only the policy and commitments made affect the population.
I urge any of you who are also concerned with the future health of our State and our community to join me and write to Gavin King, Member for Cairns via any of the following:
Email cairns@parliament.qld.gov.au
Phone 07 4051 2868
Address Office 1 "McLeod South", 78-84 Spence Street, Cairns Qld 4870
For those living in Barron River, Michael Trout can be contacted via these details:
Office 07 4038 2800
Mobile 0488 227 766
Email Barron.River@parliament.qld.gov.au
Address PO Box 1014, Smithfield, Queensland, 4878
And for Curtis Pitt, Member for Mulgrave, the details are as follows:
Phone 4056 3175
Fax 4056 3340
Email mulgrave@parliament.qld.gov.au
Office T J Ryan Building, 94-96 Norman Street, Gordonvale QLD 4865
Postal Address PO Box 314 Gordonvale QLD 4865
It's worth noting that Curtis Pitt is supportive of all programs so it may be more beneficial to write instead to Gavin King as the Cairns Base Hospital and Healthy Communities are both within his electorate. That will be entirely up to you however.
I also ask that you forward a copy of your letter to The Cairns Post as well so that the media are equally aware of the impact of these decisions on our community and the fact that many amongst us would like them to be re-instated.
Together we can make a difference. If I didn't believe that, politics would hold no interest for me and I would never write another blog post and we both know that will never happen.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Checks and Balances in a CanDo State.
The State Government, headed by Mr Newman, are proving themselves to be a Government of their word. The problem is, it's not making people very happy.
Prior to the recent State election, the LNP promised one thing above all others. To cut costs, drastically. They promised to reduce Government debt within the first 100 days and as far as I can tell, they didn't promise a whole lot else.
Then the people of this great State voted. They gave the Newman Government a mandate like no other in a landslide victory which effectively gives them no Opposition. The people have spoken.
It appears what they want is no debt. We already know that debt is a death knell for any Government. A sure-fire way to lose, and lose big. There has not been a government in my memory capable of selling debt as a good thing, a necessary thing, a short term issue for long term stability. Government debt is seen as a reflection on a poorly managed economy, driven by an economically disastrous Treasurer. While I personally don't believe our debt was unmanageable or too large, the voters thought otherwise.
So, here we are, two months later. Halfway through the 100 day plan. The first to go was the Premiers Literary Awards. We are now the only State in the country without a Premier award in any form of Literacy. Seems somehow fitting for the 'smart State'.
During the past few weeks we have seen DERM and DEEDI re-shuffled, the Department of Climate Change shut down, green programs axed, pot plants for government offices removed and the beginnings of a fast-track for approvals for mining. That's the environment taken care of.....or not.
We have seen the beginnings of the process to remove Civil Unions (not cost-cutting but a previous promise nonetheless), removal of all funding for the Department of Healthy Communities, the Sisters Inside program for women in Townsville's prison shut down, no entry to the National Disability Scheme and the removal of the Sentencing Advisory Council. That takes care of all minority groups and mental and physical health advocacy.
Finally, the re-introduction of measures which once formed part of Work Choices. A Bill tabled and passed which gives the Attorney General the power to stop industrial action and the removal of the Queensland Workplace Rights Office. That takes care of the rights of workers.
Halfway through the slash and burn process and almost every facet of society is affected by these changes. Some, like the removal of tea and coffee privileges, are not so important as most government agencies supply their own anyway. Others, like the removal of the Sisters program, are just foolish.
Here's the problem though. This State voted them in. In large numbers. Ergo, the debt has got to go. The real question mark in this entire process, is on the 'where' and the 'why' of the cuts. Is it even necessary to cut funding on such a large scale? No. Does it work when it's actioned in this way? No. It will effectively just move the costs to a different area. When HIV rates rise again, when women return to prison time and time again, when productivity levels drop, when workers have enough and the real strike action begins.....all of those things will cost our Government FAR more than any savings made right now. Is it going to happen anyway? Yes.
Government spending on MP's has just risen dramatically, with the introduction of Legislation which increases numbers on Committee's from 6-8. This effectively gives every MP in the State, a pay rise of at least $8'000. This increase alone would more than pay for the Sister's program, one proven to work and at a grand total of $120'000 per year, a cost saving measure on its own.
Changing the name of Parliamentary Secretaries to Assistant Ministers won't change the fact that the numbers of them rose and the pay rate and perks remain the same. Another increase in costs that is probably not justified.
Here's the real kicker though. If the majority, by a long margin, want costs cut and debt reduced, where should it happen? Is it not likely that it wouldn't matter where the cuts were made, someone would be negatively affected? Is there any single Department, group or service supported by the Qld Government which we could happily live without? Possibly not.
Will we claw our way back into the black and one day soon revisit the programs now lost? Maybe. Should we be continuing to lobby against closure of those which are cost effective and absolutely necessary, like Sisters Inside and the Department of Healthy Communities? Absolutely.
It now falls to us all to advocate on behalf of those who can't. To choose which battles to fight and which to let go of. To be the voice of reason in the midst of the great cash saving 100 day plan.
Anything undertaken on this scale, with such a short time period given, will inevitably swallow some of the most needed programs. Especially if we choose to look at the plan in its entirety and don't look closely at the merits of each program facing the cuts along the way.
A government without inbuilt checks and balances must have a population willing to provide that for them. Loudly if necessary......and it's definitely becoming necessary.
Prior to the recent State election, the LNP promised one thing above all others. To cut costs, drastically. They promised to reduce Government debt within the first 100 days and as far as I can tell, they didn't promise a whole lot else.
Then the people of this great State voted. They gave the Newman Government a mandate like no other in a landslide victory which effectively gives them no Opposition. The people have spoken.
It appears what they want is no debt. We already know that debt is a death knell for any Government. A sure-fire way to lose, and lose big. There has not been a government in my memory capable of selling debt as a good thing, a necessary thing, a short term issue for long term stability. Government debt is seen as a reflection on a poorly managed economy, driven by an economically disastrous Treasurer. While I personally don't believe our debt was unmanageable or too large, the voters thought otherwise.
So, here we are, two months later. Halfway through the 100 day plan. The first to go was the Premiers Literary Awards. We are now the only State in the country without a Premier award in any form of Literacy. Seems somehow fitting for the 'smart State'.
During the past few weeks we have seen DERM and DEEDI re-shuffled, the Department of Climate Change shut down, green programs axed, pot plants for government offices removed and the beginnings of a fast-track for approvals for mining. That's the environment taken care of.....or not.
We have seen the beginnings of the process to remove Civil Unions (not cost-cutting but a previous promise nonetheless), removal of all funding for the Department of Healthy Communities, the Sisters Inside program for women in Townsville's prison shut down, no entry to the National Disability Scheme and the removal of the Sentencing Advisory Council. That takes care of all minority groups and mental and physical health advocacy.
Finally, the re-introduction of measures which once formed part of Work Choices. A Bill tabled and passed which gives the Attorney General the power to stop industrial action and the removal of the Queensland Workplace Rights Office. That takes care of the rights of workers.
Halfway through the slash and burn process and almost every facet of society is affected by these changes. Some, like the removal of tea and coffee privileges, are not so important as most government agencies supply their own anyway. Others, like the removal of the Sisters program, are just foolish.
Here's the problem though. This State voted them in. In large numbers. Ergo, the debt has got to go. The real question mark in this entire process, is on the 'where' and the 'why' of the cuts. Is it even necessary to cut funding on such a large scale? No. Does it work when it's actioned in this way? No. It will effectively just move the costs to a different area. When HIV rates rise again, when women return to prison time and time again, when productivity levels drop, when workers have enough and the real strike action begins.....all of those things will cost our Government FAR more than any savings made right now. Is it going to happen anyway? Yes.
Government spending on MP's has just risen dramatically, with the introduction of Legislation which increases numbers on Committee's from 6-8. This effectively gives every MP in the State, a pay rise of at least $8'000. This increase alone would more than pay for the Sister's program, one proven to work and at a grand total of $120'000 per year, a cost saving measure on its own.
Changing the name of Parliamentary Secretaries to Assistant Ministers won't change the fact that the numbers of them rose and the pay rate and perks remain the same. Another increase in costs that is probably not justified.
Here's the real kicker though. If the majority, by a long margin, want costs cut and debt reduced, where should it happen? Is it not likely that it wouldn't matter where the cuts were made, someone would be negatively affected? Is there any single Department, group or service supported by the Qld Government which we could happily live without? Possibly not.
Will we claw our way back into the black and one day soon revisit the programs now lost? Maybe. Should we be continuing to lobby against closure of those which are cost effective and absolutely necessary, like Sisters Inside and the Department of Healthy Communities? Absolutely.
It now falls to us all to advocate on behalf of those who can't. To choose which battles to fight and which to let go of. To be the voice of reason in the midst of the great cash saving 100 day plan.
Anything undertaken on this scale, with such a short time period given, will inevitably swallow some of the most needed programs. Especially if we choose to look at the plan in its entirety and don't look closely at the merits of each program facing the cuts along the way.
A government without inbuilt checks and balances must have a population willing to provide that for them. Loudly if necessary......and it's definitely becoming necessary.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Women in Power in Australia, and why they can't stay at the top.
Women have had a rough ride over the past 5 years in politics. One would think that having a female Mayor, CEO, Premier, PM and Governor General was a huge step forward in progress for women in strong roles. Unfortunately, that has not been the case.
There has been a great deal of talk on why women have become unwanted in politics and where our gender is headed. There are probably many reasons why this is happening but I am focussing this blog on the one I noticed the most. Leadership skills. Our current crop have failed in this area. Remarkably, women appear the most unaware of what they are doing wrong when it comes time to analyse performance.
Here's the deal. Women are great at multi-tasking, can do any job a man can do (sometimes even better), are physically and psychologically capable of taking on anything and have a very strong work ethic. That should be great ingredients for a future in leadership roles. So, what's missing?
Two things are noticeably lacking. The first is necessary for any role where the majority of time is spent in the public arena. Retail skills. Great policy is fantastic. Charisma is a good thing. The ability to speak well is also wonderful. Having no ability to 'sell' it.......leads to failure every time. Just because something is good doesn't mean that the general public will listen.
The media control our sound bytes and our snippets. Leaving them room to fill that space with negative speak from those opposing is not just the fault of the media. It is also the fault of the salesperson. Marketing cannot be underestimated. Neither can connections with the public. Separate yourself from them and stand apart and you will win no friends.....or votes.
We need our representatives to be people we can relate to. That's difficult to do but past PM's have shown what people want. Bob Hawke and his day off comment after the Cup win. Howard and his walking suit. Keating and his........acually, Keating is one of those who fit this same mould. Aloof, apart and unreachable. Campbell Newman is another. In fact, in this deconstruction, Anna Bligh is the anomaly as well.
The second thing you need to do as leader......is lead a TEAM. Do not stand alone, as if you are the only one with the decision making ability and tell the public what YOU decided. That is the sign of a dictator. Nobody wants that. I can guarantee you that Julia never made the decision to stand Slipper or Thomson aside all by herself. Her advisors and several other members of her caucus would have had talks with her before this decision was reached. She said 'I have made the decision.........' What she SHOULD have said was 'This Government has decided.......' or 'We have decided.......'
While I applaud people for wishing to be the person held accountable for decisions and policy, the fact is it doesn't work. They are not alone in the job. It is a team effort. Instead of standing as spokesperson for a group of shadows, they should be standing as spokesperson with a full team of supportive people right behind them.
Now, after attacking women and their lack of leadership skills, it's time to ask real questions. Are women given enough support as they rise through the tiers of power? Do they have people they can rely on to hold them up or provide a sounding board when they need it? Is there so much scrutiny of hairstyles, clothing and voice modulation that they somehow lose themselves in the effort to become perfect? Those questions need answers.
Men in these positions will often delegate answers to their Ministers, they will stand before media scrums with at least the Deputy behind them. I've never seen mention of a bad tie or an ill-fitting suit or bad rug. It seems to me that it is a hell of a lot tougher to get to the top if you are a women. The journey is tough but it's a damn sight more difficult to actually stay there once the top is reached.
Maybe this post has provided more questions than answers and it certainly doesn't apply to all women in powerful roles. It's more an observation of those who are 'on the nose' and the reflections of a woman who would like to be chosen at some point to represent a much smaller group in a position of influence.
As mentioned, there are also many men who fit this profile, including Queensland's current Premier. I will be watching carefully to see if his lack of retail skills and 'stand alone' attitude will be perceived in the same way as it has been for the women of this country. We'll see.
There has been a great deal of talk on why women have become unwanted in politics and where our gender is headed. There are probably many reasons why this is happening but I am focussing this blog on the one I noticed the most. Leadership skills. Our current crop have failed in this area. Remarkably, women appear the most unaware of what they are doing wrong when it comes time to analyse performance.
Here's the deal. Women are great at multi-tasking, can do any job a man can do (sometimes even better), are physically and psychologically capable of taking on anything and have a very strong work ethic. That should be great ingredients for a future in leadership roles. So, what's missing?
Two things are noticeably lacking. The first is necessary for any role where the majority of time is spent in the public arena. Retail skills. Great policy is fantastic. Charisma is a good thing. The ability to speak well is also wonderful. Having no ability to 'sell' it.......leads to failure every time. Just because something is good doesn't mean that the general public will listen.
The media control our sound bytes and our snippets. Leaving them room to fill that space with negative speak from those opposing is not just the fault of the media. It is also the fault of the salesperson. Marketing cannot be underestimated. Neither can connections with the public. Separate yourself from them and stand apart and you will win no friends.....or votes.
We need our representatives to be people we can relate to. That's difficult to do but past PM's have shown what people want. Bob Hawke and his day off comment after the Cup win. Howard and his walking suit. Keating and his........acually, Keating is one of those who fit this same mould. Aloof, apart and unreachable. Campbell Newman is another. In fact, in this deconstruction, Anna Bligh is the anomaly as well.
The second thing you need to do as leader......is lead a TEAM. Do not stand alone, as if you are the only one with the decision making ability and tell the public what YOU decided. That is the sign of a dictator. Nobody wants that. I can guarantee you that Julia never made the decision to stand Slipper or Thomson aside all by herself. Her advisors and several other members of her caucus would have had talks with her before this decision was reached. She said 'I have made the decision.........' What she SHOULD have said was 'This Government has decided.......' or 'We have decided.......'
While I applaud people for wishing to be the person held accountable for decisions and policy, the fact is it doesn't work. They are not alone in the job. It is a team effort. Instead of standing as spokesperson for a group of shadows, they should be standing as spokesperson with a full team of supportive people right behind them.
Now, after attacking women and their lack of leadership skills, it's time to ask real questions. Are women given enough support as they rise through the tiers of power? Do they have people they can rely on to hold them up or provide a sounding board when they need it? Is there so much scrutiny of hairstyles, clothing and voice modulation that they somehow lose themselves in the effort to become perfect? Those questions need answers.
Men in these positions will often delegate answers to their Ministers, they will stand before media scrums with at least the Deputy behind them. I've never seen mention of a bad tie or an ill-fitting suit or bad rug. It seems to me that it is a hell of a lot tougher to get to the top if you are a women. The journey is tough but it's a damn sight more difficult to actually stay there once the top is reached.
Maybe this post has provided more questions than answers and it certainly doesn't apply to all women in powerful roles. It's more an observation of those who are 'on the nose' and the reflections of a woman who would like to be chosen at some point to represent a much smaller group in a position of influence.
As mentioned, there are also many men who fit this profile, including Queensland's current Premier. I will be watching carefully to see if his lack of retail skills and 'stand alone' attitude will be perceived in the same way as it has been for the women of this country. We'll see.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Campaigning..........in Division 2.
I have refrained from writing much on this blog for the past few weeks as being a candidate for election does make it that bit harder. Mostly because there is very little time for it but also because it would be very difficult to self-critique. Nonetheless, with only a few days to go, I'd like to share my experiences with you all on this process and what it has taught me.
The first week was spent largely ignoring the fact that an election was on the horizon as the State election, with it's very interesting results, was still front and centre in people's minds. That made it difficult to talk local politics with people but I also wanted to give the community some time off before another election became the focal point in their thoughts.
During that week immediately proceeding the State election I spent a lot of time talking to my family and friends about what was coming next. We discussed corflute placement, trailer signs and other paraphernalia. With me being of the opinion that election material should be restricted further it was very hard to order those things knowing that they would soon litter the landscape. I contacted several local organisations to ask who wanted them after the election and managed to find homes for them all which made the process a little more bearable.
We chose to go with several large billboard signs so that we could limit corflutes in the ground (something that became a problem for us but I do not regret doing) and chose to print the How To Vote cards on plain paper so they could be recycled with greater ease.
Week two and door-knocking ramped up a gear. There were five weeks in total between elections and two of those were school holidays. Not the easiest time to knock on people's doors when you live in an area which is primarily young families.
Door-knocking taught me several things. Firstly, you can never have enough sunscreen on. People would really like the opportunity to have their say if you are willing to give them an ear and your time. The so called 'little things' are not so little if you are a resident in the street with the issue. Hooning is a MAJOR problem in almost every street. People are confused about the CEP based on the amount of conflicting information out there and have not actually made their minds up about it yet. Very few residents know who they will vote for as Mayor. Lastly, I learnt that while I have been working on various committee's and in many groups for several years in the Division, PLENTY of people had no idea who I was.
In week three I met residents who are concerned about a particularly nasty corner in Mt Sheridan. Several major accidents occur there every year and after years of working with Council officers and Nancy (who it turns out has worked tirelessly for those who have contacted her with an issue)they are still no closer to fixing the problem.
I met residents who would like one of the designated Dog Exercise Parks in Division 2 to be fenced so that stray dogs can't impede on it's use. They walked me over to the park and we stood there for a long while to actually witness what is going on and in those 45 minutes, 6 dogs wandered over from various streets nearby. Two of them quite scary big ones. No wonder kids are too scared to walk their dogs.
I met the residents of one street where every house along it has been broken into this year. The park is always full of noisy young people drinking heavily and the impact of that on their piece of mind is quite large. The police are often called and always come, but they always arrive too late. During the next few days I contacted Edmonton Neighbourhood Watch and found out there is no branch in Bentley Park or Mt Sheridan, something that needs addressing, the sooner the better.
One street I visited was still recovering from an accident which had occurred only the week before. A young child was hit by a car along the street, suffering serious but non-life threatening injury. The person driving the vehicle was going quite slowly but during my time in that street, at least 8 cars sped along the road past me at speeds in excess of the limit. A child being hit by a car going 40k and surviving is one thing but if that same child had been hit by a car doing 60-70 it may well have resulted in her death. They have lodged complaints with Council and asked for some help but as yet, have heard nothing back.
Each week I also stood at the front of each of the shopping precincts in Division 2 and took some time to chat to shoppers. These conversations included the burning of cane which occurs yearly and it's health impacts on residents, the lack of jobs in the area which makes it necessary to work in the CBD, youth crime and unruly behaviour and more hooning.
Week four and I met residents who would like their parks better lit and BBQ's included. I spoke to some who particularly liked the focus on the environment that the current Council has and wanted assurances that it would remain a focus. One resident who was knocked down by a car going too fast around the corner and several conversations about our youth and the lack of engagement in this area.
It has become apparent that the youth who are causing chaos in the community are aged from 8-12, something which I found surprising but saw evidence of many times. This makes it even more important to continue early intervention services and expand on facilities for youth, while supporting programs which offer mentoring such as the Cairns Youth Mentoring Scheme.
Week five is now almost complete. ANZAC Day was a wonderful opportunity to throw off the campaign mindset and participate in inclusive activities within the community. The parade was extremely well attended, getting bigger each year, and the rides and activities afterward were fantastic. Thankyou to the Hambledon/Edmonton RSL for organising the day. The sausage sizzle was where I spent most of my time and while we did run out of water at one point, we had a great time watching the tug o war and the kids running around Fuller Park while serving sausages on bread to the hungry masses.
I have not been able to knock on every door. Something which I was very hopeful of doing but did not have enough time to achieve. I am promising right now that after this election is over, if declared the new Councillor for Division 2, I will continue to door-knock until I have been to every home in the area. I will also maintain a presence at Piccone's IGA on a regular basis and continue attending all of our community events. Community consultation does not end with your vote.
Pre-poll began with much ado and fanfare last week and it was not a very nice place to be for the first few days. There is definitely some oddity in the democratic process which does no one any favours and impacts on the voting process. Over time and with plenty of arguments, that process is now about as good as it can get when you have almost 40 candidates vying for time with residents of the region.
I have had a fantastic time over these past few weeks. I have met some incredible people from my community and have made some connections which I will continue to keep, whatever the outcome on Saturday.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every resident who welcomed me into their home or onto their door-step, each person who took the time to chat with me about their street and their concerns. Each person who wished me luck, gave me the thumbs up and wrote me lovely e-mails of support and encouragement. You are the reason I am standing here today, in a bright yellow t-shirt, reeking of sunscreen, determined to make a difference. You have made a difference in my life, I hope I will be allowed the opportunity to make a real difference in yours.
So, what's my take on the future of this region? To be honest, I've no idea how the votes will fall. What I do know is this.......yesterday afternoon I took some time to read the flyers delivered from both of the teams. My concern is that there is no mention of the environment anywhere on their material and there is very little mention of the importance of building community or social wellbeing. While I do certainly understand that jobs and the future of our local economy is a priority, balance must be struck. There is little point in creating jobs for locals if there is no social or cultural space for them to spend their days off.
I urge you all to gather those pamphlets and find one word which mentions our youth. There isn't one. Nothing on hooning or the reduction of residential road incidents either.
In fact, without economics, there is a vast chasm of empty space where those 'little things' I mentioned before, should take pride of place.
On Saturday, please vote for your local Independent candidate and make sure that the community you live in, has a voice.
The first week was spent largely ignoring the fact that an election was on the horizon as the State election, with it's very interesting results, was still front and centre in people's minds. That made it difficult to talk local politics with people but I also wanted to give the community some time off before another election became the focal point in their thoughts.
During that week immediately proceeding the State election I spent a lot of time talking to my family and friends about what was coming next. We discussed corflute placement, trailer signs and other paraphernalia. With me being of the opinion that election material should be restricted further it was very hard to order those things knowing that they would soon litter the landscape. I contacted several local organisations to ask who wanted them after the election and managed to find homes for them all which made the process a little more bearable.
We chose to go with several large billboard signs so that we could limit corflutes in the ground (something that became a problem for us but I do not regret doing) and chose to print the How To Vote cards on plain paper so they could be recycled with greater ease.
Week two and door-knocking ramped up a gear. There were five weeks in total between elections and two of those were school holidays. Not the easiest time to knock on people's doors when you live in an area which is primarily young families.
Door-knocking taught me several things. Firstly, you can never have enough sunscreen on. People would really like the opportunity to have their say if you are willing to give them an ear and your time. The so called 'little things' are not so little if you are a resident in the street with the issue. Hooning is a MAJOR problem in almost every street. People are confused about the CEP based on the amount of conflicting information out there and have not actually made their minds up about it yet. Very few residents know who they will vote for as Mayor. Lastly, I learnt that while I have been working on various committee's and in many groups for several years in the Division, PLENTY of people had no idea who I was.
In week three I met residents who are concerned about a particularly nasty corner in Mt Sheridan. Several major accidents occur there every year and after years of working with Council officers and Nancy (who it turns out has worked tirelessly for those who have contacted her with an issue)they are still no closer to fixing the problem.
I met residents who would like one of the designated Dog Exercise Parks in Division 2 to be fenced so that stray dogs can't impede on it's use. They walked me over to the park and we stood there for a long while to actually witness what is going on and in those 45 minutes, 6 dogs wandered over from various streets nearby. Two of them quite scary big ones. No wonder kids are too scared to walk their dogs.
I met the residents of one street where every house along it has been broken into this year. The park is always full of noisy young people drinking heavily and the impact of that on their piece of mind is quite large. The police are often called and always come, but they always arrive too late. During the next few days I contacted Edmonton Neighbourhood Watch and found out there is no branch in Bentley Park or Mt Sheridan, something that needs addressing, the sooner the better.
One street I visited was still recovering from an accident which had occurred only the week before. A young child was hit by a car along the street, suffering serious but non-life threatening injury. The person driving the vehicle was going quite slowly but during my time in that street, at least 8 cars sped along the road past me at speeds in excess of the limit. A child being hit by a car going 40k and surviving is one thing but if that same child had been hit by a car doing 60-70 it may well have resulted in her death. They have lodged complaints with Council and asked for some help but as yet, have heard nothing back.
Each week I also stood at the front of each of the shopping precincts in Division 2 and took some time to chat to shoppers. These conversations included the burning of cane which occurs yearly and it's health impacts on residents, the lack of jobs in the area which makes it necessary to work in the CBD, youth crime and unruly behaviour and more hooning.
Week four and I met residents who would like their parks better lit and BBQ's included. I spoke to some who particularly liked the focus on the environment that the current Council has and wanted assurances that it would remain a focus. One resident who was knocked down by a car going too fast around the corner and several conversations about our youth and the lack of engagement in this area.
It has become apparent that the youth who are causing chaos in the community are aged from 8-12, something which I found surprising but saw evidence of many times. This makes it even more important to continue early intervention services and expand on facilities for youth, while supporting programs which offer mentoring such as the Cairns Youth Mentoring Scheme.
Week five is now almost complete. ANZAC Day was a wonderful opportunity to throw off the campaign mindset and participate in inclusive activities within the community. The parade was extremely well attended, getting bigger each year, and the rides and activities afterward were fantastic. Thankyou to the Hambledon/Edmonton RSL for organising the day. The sausage sizzle was where I spent most of my time and while we did run out of water at one point, we had a great time watching the tug o war and the kids running around Fuller Park while serving sausages on bread to the hungry masses.
I have not been able to knock on every door. Something which I was very hopeful of doing but did not have enough time to achieve. I am promising right now that after this election is over, if declared the new Councillor for Division 2, I will continue to door-knock until I have been to every home in the area. I will also maintain a presence at Piccone's IGA on a regular basis and continue attending all of our community events. Community consultation does not end with your vote.
Pre-poll began with much ado and fanfare last week and it was not a very nice place to be for the first few days. There is definitely some oddity in the democratic process which does no one any favours and impacts on the voting process. Over time and with plenty of arguments, that process is now about as good as it can get when you have almost 40 candidates vying for time with residents of the region.
I have had a fantastic time over these past few weeks. I have met some incredible people from my community and have made some connections which I will continue to keep, whatever the outcome on Saturday.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every resident who welcomed me into their home or onto their door-step, each person who took the time to chat with me about their street and their concerns. Each person who wished me luck, gave me the thumbs up and wrote me lovely e-mails of support and encouragement. You are the reason I am standing here today, in a bright yellow t-shirt, reeking of sunscreen, determined to make a difference. You have made a difference in my life, I hope I will be allowed the opportunity to make a real difference in yours.
So, what's my take on the future of this region? To be honest, I've no idea how the votes will fall. What I do know is this.......yesterday afternoon I took some time to read the flyers delivered from both of the teams. My concern is that there is no mention of the environment anywhere on their material and there is very little mention of the importance of building community or social wellbeing. While I do certainly understand that jobs and the future of our local economy is a priority, balance must be struck. There is little point in creating jobs for locals if there is no social or cultural space for them to spend their days off.
I urge you all to gather those pamphlets and find one word which mentions our youth. There isn't one. Nothing on hooning or the reduction of residential road incidents either.
In fact, without economics, there is a vast chasm of empty space where those 'little things' I mentioned before, should take pride of place.
On Saturday, please vote for your local Independent candidate and make sure that the community you live in, has a voice.
Monday, April 2, 2012
What I left unsaid.......for the City Place Forum.
On Sunday there was a public Forum in City Place which was designed to enable all Council hopefuls, including Mayoral Candidates, the opportunity to address the public and answer questions from the crowd. This allowed locals to hear from those who may well represent them in Council after April 28th and was very well attended.
I was there, but due to previous commitments (I had already confirmed attendance at another event last year that was held at the same time) I could not stay long enough to have my say and answer those questions. While I am not regretful that I attended the other event, I am certainly disappointed I could not participate fully in this one.
Several people have asked me if I wrote a speech prior to the Forum and the answer is yes. It was originally to be held on April 8th but the clash with Easter Sunday meant it was re-organised for the earlier date. Because of the re-shuffle, and knowing the importance of participating, I wrote the following speech which was to be my 3 minute contribution. Unfortunately, the opportunity to answer questions by those attending has passed but this blog does allow for comments so please feel free to ask anything you would like answered and I will happily respond.
"Good afternoon everyone. Thank you to the organisers of today's Forum for this opportunity to speak to you all.
The Cairns region is something I am very passionate about. This is my home. I grew up here, married here and together we are raising three children here. My Division, which encompasses parts of Edmonton, Mt Sheridan and all of Bentley Park, is filled with households just like mine. I know what it feels like to worry when petrol prices, electricity prices or Rates go up. I know what it feels like to try and juggle household funds so that my children don't miss out. Many residents in Division 2 have the same worries and concerns and need to know that they are being heard and everything possible is being done to keep costs low.
Introducing tipping vouchers with Rates notices and a yearly green waste pick-up would help. So would re-visiting the idea of a Rates discount, something that also encourages residents to pay on time which makes Council operations run smoother. I'm hopeful that if elected, other Councillors will also support these plans and we can implement them for the regions benefit.
Much has been said in the media, and while I've been door-knocking, about the youth of our region. Our young people need us to act in support of them and they need to be involved in the process every step along the way. Youth engagement is a multi-faceted, big picture project and it has begun, but we need to get some of the newer ideas and plans started as the need is certainly there.
A youth hub within the Edmonton Leisure Centre is something I am very supportive of. Upgrading Little Fretwell Park so that the current skate park and BMX track are better, brighter and more accessible will be another facet of the engagement process. Building a bigger Library so that it will cater to a growing community is also important and will benefit not just young people, but the entire community. These are just a few of the plans I will be advocating for. Our residents aged 10-18 deserve representation.
Small businesses also need support. The Edmonton District Traders Association is a great example of what can be achieved when businesses act together to facilitate each others growth and viability. We have seen the benefits to the tourism industry with a large body representing their best interests and I will be encouraging a similar group be formed for the many small businesses here in Cairns.
The Cairns region is faced with a bright future. Now is the right time to encourage innovation and eco development. The Tropical Innovation Awards are growing every year and are evidence of the brilliant minds and clever ideas our region has in abundance. We are positioned in one of the most environmentally sensitive places on earth. With that comes certain responsibilities, especially when considering future growth. From small ideas such as further support of Community Gardens and rebates or vouchers for the purchase of household worm-farms, to big ideas such as removing plastic bags from supermarkets and encouraging them to display food mileage on fresh items, it will be my responsibility to work hard to create a more sustainable future if I am elected.
Bentley Park is home. Division 2 is my community. I look forward to listening and learning from residents over the next few weeks of door-knocking and community involvement. I will be taking those ideas and that vision into Council with me if I am lucky enough to be chosen to represent my community.
Thank you."
I was there, but due to previous commitments (I had already confirmed attendance at another event last year that was held at the same time) I could not stay long enough to have my say and answer those questions. While I am not regretful that I attended the other event, I am certainly disappointed I could not participate fully in this one.
Several people have asked me if I wrote a speech prior to the Forum and the answer is yes. It was originally to be held on April 8th but the clash with Easter Sunday meant it was re-organised for the earlier date. Because of the re-shuffle, and knowing the importance of participating, I wrote the following speech which was to be my 3 minute contribution. Unfortunately, the opportunity to answer questions by those attending has passed but this blog does allow for comments so please feel free to ask anything you would like answered and I will happily respond.
"Good afternoon everyone. Thank you to the organisers of today's Forum for this opportunity to speak to you all.
The Cairns region is something I am very passionate about. This is my home. I grew up here, married here and together we are raising three children here. My Division, which encompasses parts of Edmonton, Mt Sheridan and all of Bentley Park, is filled with households just like mine. I know what it feels like to worry when petrol prices, electricity prices or Rates go up. I know what it feels like to try and juggle household funds so that my children don't miss out. Many residents in Division 2 have the same worries and concerns and need to know that they are being heard and everything possible is being done to keep costs low.
Introducing tipping vouchers with Rates notices and a yearly green waste pick-up would help. So would re-visiting the idea of a Rates discount, something that also encourages residents to pay on time which makes Council operations run smoother. I'm hopeful that if elected, other Councillors will also support these plans and we can implement them for the regions benefit.
Much has been said in the media, and while I've been door-knocking, about the youth of our region. Our young people need us to act in support of them and they need to be involved in the process every step along the way. Youth engagement is a multi-faceted, big picture project and it has begun, but we need to get some of the newer ideas and plans started as the need is certainly there.
A youth hub within the Edmonton Leisure Centre is something I am very supportive of. Upgrading Little Fretwell Park so that the current skate park and BMX track are better, brighter and more accessible will be another facet of the engagement process. Building a bigger Library so that it will cater to a growing community is also important and will benefit not just young people, but the entire community. These are just a few of the plans I will be advocating for. Our residents aged 10-18 deserve representation.
Small businesses also need support. The Edmonton District Traders Association is a great example of what can be achieved when businesses act together to facilitate each others growth and viability. We have seen the benefits to the tourism industry with a large body representing their best interests and I will be encouraging a similar group be formed for the many small businesses here in Cairns.
The Cairns region is faced with a bright future. Now is the right time to encourage innovation and eco development. The Tropical Innovation Awards are growing every year and are evidence of the brilliant minds and clever ideas our region has in abundance. We are positioned in one of the most environmentally sensitive places on earth. With that comes certain responsibilities, especially when considering future growth. From small ideas such as further support of Community Gardens and rebates or vouchers for the purchase of household worm-farms, to big ideas such as removing plastic bags from supermarkets and encouraging them to display food mileage on fresh items, it will be my responsibility to work hard to create a more sustainable future if I am elected.
Bentley Park is home. Division 2 is my community. I look forward to listening and learning from residents over the next few weeks of door-knocking and community involvement. I will be taking those ideas and that vision into Council with me if I am lucky enough to be chosen to represent my community.
Thank you."
Friday, March 9, 2012
Sustainable.......much more than just a buzzword.
I have been very fortunate over the past few months as a recognised Candidate for the next Regional Council elections to have had many very interesting and enlightening conversations with people I might otherwise have not met, or not had the opportunity to converse with.
There are many things that people choose to bring to my attention and several of those I have followed up on or noted down in the hope that win or lose, I may have an opportunity to affect a better outcome on those particular issues. There are a few things that keep cropping up though that require a much broader scope in which to make lasting changes.
I am a huge fan of encouraging grocers and market stalls to display food mileage on their produce. Not individually, just a simple sign on each food bin that indicates where the fruit and veg has come from and how far it travelled to get there. Many consumers will still decide on the imported or interstate produce when taking account of costs but others would prefer to make an informed choice for their basket or trolley. There are several other environmentally or locally based initiatives I am interested in exploring as well and this is the reason for my post.
It is very apparent that many within the community would like to make some changes, both small and large, to reduce their footprint on their surrounding environment. The options are now readily available to do just that and there are sound bytes everywhere proclaiming that the future look, feel and direction for our region must be sustainable. Sustainable economics, sustainable growth, sustainable consumption and sustainable building and development. Sounds great! But what does it really mean and how can it be achieved? Perhaps even more importantly, how does it sit with residents?
The most common misconception with this word is that it somehow belongs to a fringe, radical group who are all vegan, long-haired and wear sandals. It is creeping into conversation in all sectors now but it remains true that it is still seen as slightly extreme which is very unfortunate. Speak to anyone who works hard in the arena of sustainable native animal populations. They will tell you how difficult it is to get the attention of newspapers or radio when there is a crisis that needs better management. Speak to anyone in the RealFood Network and they will say the same. The numbers are growing but it still remains a very difficult prospect to garner mainstream attention.
Of course this isn't helped by the few who are wildly passionate about the cause. Those who want it all, now! It's a wonderful thought to imagine us living in sustainable, solar run houses, eating food from the garden or the front gate from farms, composting, worm farming, caring for native wildlife, no longer buying any 'throwaway' consumer goods or trinkets......... Well, it isn't realistic. Not yet. Maybe we will eventually get to the point where our consumer driven society is no longer impressed with the latest gadget or the newest 'in' thing, but for now, we all need to work harder to get the message out that this change that we have to make (our environment is telling us that we need to rearrange our priorities) can happen, and will happen, if we all just START the process.
People understandably baulk at the idea that their whole world will be flipped upside down (at this point metaphorically) and there really does need to be a better approach to creating a sustainable community. The first thing that needs to happen is it needs to become a mainstream idea. It needs to be recognised that some will grow food in their gardens, add a compost heap and have solar power......but still want to own the prettiest smartphone on the market. Some will happily read the labels on food items to ensure their children are raised preservative and artificially coloured free, but they will still proudly drive a Prado as the family car. Developers may choose to build a unit development out of recycled materials and fill it's walls with louvres to negate the need for air-conditioning.......but install them anyway, along with dryers, for the two or three weeks a year the residents may use them. Small, local businesses may form a working group of their own to pool resources for effective marketing and problem solving, but still employ more casual juniors than full time staff.
Sustainability. In order to work it needs to be a choice. It needs to be presented as a logical, cost effective option which does not come with strings attached or any higher expectations. It needs to be applauded but not segregated and it needs to be accessible.
Long term, sustainable, lasting.......the meanings are very similar. This is NOT a 'buzzword' and should not be treated as such. It's the only way our community will flourish, long after we are no longer around to see it.
There are many things that people choose to bring to my attention and several of those I have followed up on or noted down in the hope that win or lose, I may have an opportunity to affect a better outcome on those particular issues. There are a few things that keep cropping up though that require a much broader scope in which to make lasting changes.
I am a huge fan of encouraging grocers and market stalls to display food mileage on their produce. Not individually, just a simple sign on each food bin that indicates where the fruit and veg has come from and how far it travelled to get there. Many consumers will still decide on the imported or interstate produce when taking account of costs but others would prefer to make an informed choice for their basket or trolley. There are several other environmentally or locally based initiatives I am interested in exploring as well and this is the reason for my post.
It is very apparent that many within the community would like to make some changes, both small and large, to reduce their footprint on their surrounding environment. The options are now readily available to do just that and there are sound bytes everywhere proclaiming that the future look, feel and direction for our region must be sustainable. Sustainable economics, sustainable growth, sustainable consumption and sustainable building and development. Sounds great! But what does it really mean and how can it be achieved? Perhaps even more importantly, how does it sit with residents?
The most common misconception with this word is that it somehow belongs to a fringe, radical group who are all vegan, long-haired and wear sandals. It is creeping into conversation in all sectors now but it remains true that it is still seen as slightly extreme which is very unfortunate. Speak to anyone who works hard in the arena of sustainable native animal populations. They will tell you how difficult it is to get the attention of newspapers or radio when there is a crisis that needs better management. Speak to anyone in the RealFood Network and they will say the same. The numbers are growing but it still remains a very difficult prospect to garner mainstream attention.
Of course this isn't helped by the few who are wildly passionate about the cause. Those who want it all, now! It's a wonderful thought to imagine us living in sustainable, solar run houses, eating food from the garden or the front gate from farms, composting, worm farming, caring for native wildlife, no longer buying any 'throwaway' consumer goods or trinkets......... Well, it isn't realistic. Not yet. Maybe we will eventually get to the point where our consumer driven society is no longer impressed with the latest gadget or the newest 'in' thing, but for now, we all need to work harder to get the message out that this change that we have to make (our environment is telling us that we need to rearrange our priorities) can happen, and will happen, if we all just START the process.
People understandably baulk at the idea that their whole world will be flipped upside down (at this point metaphorically) and there really does need to be a better approach to creating a sustainable community. The first thing that needs to happen is it needs to become a mainstream idea. It needs to be recognised that some will grow food in their gardens, add a compost heap and have solar power......but still want to own the prettiest smartphone on the market. Some will happily read the labels on food items to ensure their children are raised preservative and artificially coloured free, but they will still proudly drive a Prado as the family car. Developers may choose to build a unit development out of recycled materials and fill it's walls with louvres to negate the need for air-conditioning.......but install them anyway, along with dryers, for the two or three weeks a year the residents may use them. Small, local businesses may form a working group of their own to pool resources for effective marketing and problem solving, but still employ more casual juniors than full time staff.
Sustainability. In order to work it needs to be a choice. It needs to be presented as a logical, cost effective option which does not come with strings attached or any higher expectations. It needs to be applauded but not segregated and it needs to be accessible.
Long term, sustainable, lasting.......the meanings are very similar. This is NOT a 'buzzword' and should not be treated as such. It's the only way our community will flourish, long after we are no longer around to see it.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
The True Spirit Of Cyclone Yasi.
Last night I went to the launch of a new book, made and collated in our own backyard (well, in Townsville, but I'm claiming it for us too) titled The True Spirit of Cyclone Yasi. This book is a collection of stories from various contributors all the way up and down the Queensland Coast.
The launch was great. The SES the recipients of door takings on the night and a huge presence of political beings indicating the respect that a project like this has in our region (notwithstanding the fact that it is election time). Bernadette Lawson, who was behind this book along with her husband Craig, made the trip north from Townsville and along with Lisa Robbie and Mayor Val Schier officially launched the book.
Most of those present had a personal experience with the storm last year and many had in some way helped to get residents through the day of destruction and the weeks which followed. From those informing and communicating via radio and print and photographic media, to the heroic acts of our SES and those who helped in the Community Relief Centres and Disaster Co-ordination Centres across the affected area.
The multitude of small acts which changed lives and the monster effort put in by some which changed the future for entire communities cannot be under-estimated. While the launch was indeed a fantastic event and a great opportunity to pay tribute to a few, it was the stories within the book that I was most anxious to take a look at.
Please note: this is NOT a book that you can 'take a look at'. It's a book you need to sit down with and read in it's entirety. It is a book that allows you to take a breather every now and then to regroup and clear your head. This is a book which you will visit again and again as the years unfold and Yasi becomes a memory from the distant past.
I read it, every single word on every single page. These words are not perfect. These words are not flowery. These words are not filled with the prose of perfect literature. That's why it's so easy to read and so very evocative. These are the words of those who lived through a terrifying experience. Some from afar with family caught up in the middle. Some from nearby as they waited to see where they would be deployed when the clean-up efforts began. Some from the very centre of the cyclone, who ran from their homes during the eye and somehow, extraordinarily, survived.
Some of these stories latch on to your imagination and take you on an horrific journey. The story from Tracey Dunlop, of her night spent bunkered down with her mum and Grandparents and at one point ending up in her car while riding out the gusts and gales. Her story is a heartbreaking one of loss, yet at the end she tells of the happiness her Grandmother feels now, making a new home for herself in her re-built house on the beach.
The stories by the Porter family of Tully are also inspiring, heartbreaking and somehow empowering. The courage shown in the telling of the story there for the reader to see.
The many stories by those who helped re-build the small communities affected so badly by the wind, the rain and the storm surges remind me again of the generosity of so many in the weeks following Yasi. The images provoked by the explanation of what a 'green ant dance' is as told by Bree from the SES volunteers. In my minds eye, I saw her charging in to chainsaw part of a tree for a few seconds, rushing away to do the jig which would rid her of the pesky, biting ants, then rushing back in to take another swipe at the tree.
Lisa'a story at the end of the book, of the recovery efforts and her large part in the coordination of that made me remember the times we at work baked for hours and two wonderful ladies (Mel and Corine) came by to pick up our cakes and deliver them to the hardest hit areas in and around Tully. Not exactly a huge effort, but reading Lisa'a story made me very glad we had done it.
This book is perfect. It is exactly how it should have been and exactly what we needed. A book of incredible stories from ordinary people who turned out to be far from ordinary when the need to act, be strong or to just survive was there.
The other thing this book does is remind you of your own Yasi story. We all have one. It's one of those 'Where were you when....' scenarios. It should never be forgotten and we must now remember that so many people were affected, so many still need our help and so many are still feeling the emotional toll of this event.
The book is $30 and worth every penny. 10% of all proceeds will go directly back into the areas worst hit, from Innisfail to Townsville. The True Spirit of Yasi is available from Sheds One 4041 3303, Compound 4051 3616 or the Westpac on Lake st are also selling them. Or you can call Lisa directly on 0402 210 330. Buy it. You will be glad you did.
After reminiscing all day after reading this wonderful collection of stories, I have chosen to re-post my poem that I wrote on my way home, a few short days after Yasi had been to Far North Queensland.
The Dall'Osto family went on a trip,
And they couldn't have been more ill-equipped,
In terms of clothing, food and with very little wealth.
They packed a few belongings,
But still had to go shopping,
For the mother forgot to pack clothes for herself.
Rocky saved our sanity,
Thank God they don't insist on vanity,
The van park full of those who got away.
They came from far and wide,
And drove all night to get inside,
Some queued up but there was no room left to stay.
Cyclone Yasi was a big one,
And we knew it would be no fun,
To hang around and listen to it's roar.
So we all holed up together,
And stayed tuned to the weather,
Some were praying as she came closer to the shore.
We might have been well out of reach,
But even in Rocky she let out a screech,
And we held our breath as Yasi let out hers.
She crossed the coast with much ado,
Flung tin and banana's as she went through,
Her name became the locals favourite curse.
We waited and we watched ,
As she made her way across,
Hoping houses were all she would destroy.
After several very long hours,
We learnt what happened to ours,
And the cat we left behind - that poor boy.
Turns out we were one of those she missed,
And most of Cairns was on that list,
But others didn't fare so well we found.
All the way from Ayr,
There were signs that she'd been there,
And debris was scattered all over the ground.
Entire towns were flattened,
Some were bruised and some were battered,
But all our prayers were answered by that storm.
For while she puffed with all her might,
And she stayed for half the night,
Only one young soul wouldn't live to see the dawn.
The pictures that came through,
When the day was shiny new,
Broke our hearts with the devastation that was shown.
All those places we know well,
Had gone through some kind of hell,
This was the biggest ever cyclone that they'd known.
Now we are here just one week later,
Seeing the mess left by Mother Nature,
The people standing strong and side by side.
As they all join in together,
And things start to look better,
The people here won't run, nor will they hide.
In this place where all their homes are,
Yasi has left some awful scars,
And sometimes the job ahead must seem too tough.
The residents are covered in mud and grit,
And they haven't lost heart, or hope, or wit,
But they'll need help from us all cos things are rough.
We need to give all that we can,
Be it cash or food or hands,
It's a monumental task from what I saw.
Buy bananas, buy good steak,
Right from the farmer's gate,
Together, let's make things even better than before!!
The launch was great. The SES the recipients of door takings on the night and a huge presence of political beings indicating the respect that a project like this has in our region (notwithstanding the fact that it is election time). Bernadette Lawson, who was behind this book along with her husband Craig, made the trip north from Townsville and along with Lisa Robbie and Mayor Val Schier officially launched the book.
Most of those present had a personal experience with the storm last year and many had in some way helped to get residents through the day of destruction and the weeks which followed. From those informing and communicating via radio and print and photographic media, to the heroic acts of our SES and those who helped in the Community Relief Centres and Disaster Co-ordination Centres across the affected area.
The multitude of small acts which changed lives and the monster effort put in by some which changed the future for entire communities cannot be under-estimated. While the launch was indeed a fantastic event and a great opportunity to pay tribute to a few, it was the stories within the book that I was most anxious to take a look at.
Please note: this is NOT a book that you can 'take a look at'. It's a book you need to sit down with and read in it's entirety. It is a book that allows you to take a breather every now and then to regroup and clear your head. This is a book which you will visit again and again as the years unfold and Yasi becomes a memory from the distant past.
I read it, every single word on every single page. These words are not perfect. These words are not flowery. These words are not filled with the prose of perfect literature. That's why it's so easy to read and so very evocative. These are the words of those who lived through a terrifying experience. Some from afar with family caught up in the middle. Some from nearby as they waited to see where they would be deployed when the clean-up efforts began. Some from the very centre of the cyclone, who ran from their homes during the eye and somehow, extraordinarily, survived.
Some of these stories latch on to your imagination and take you on an horrific journey. The story from Tracey Dunlop, of her night spent bunkered down with her mum and Grandparents and at one point ending up in her car while riding out the gusts and gales. Her story is a heartbreaking one of loss, yet at the end she tells of the happiness her Grandmother feels now, making a new home for herself in her re-built house on the beach.
The stories by the Porter family of Tully are also inspiring, heartbreaking and somehow empowering. The courage shown in the telling of the story there for the reader to see.
The many stories by those who helped re-build the small communities affected so badly by the wind, the rain and the storm surges remind me again of the generosity of so many in the weeks following Yasi. The images provoked by the explanation of what a 'green ant dance' is as told by Bree from the SES volunteers. In my minds eye, I saw her charging in to chainsaw part of a tree for a few seconds, rushing away to do the jig which would rid her of the pesky, biting ants, then rushing back in to take another swipe at the tree.
Lisa'a story at the end of the book, of the recovery efforts and her large part in the coordination of that made me remember the times we at work baked for hours and two wonderful ladies (Mel and Corine) came by to pick up our cakes and deliver them to the hardest hit areas in and around Tully. Not exactly a huge effort, but reading Lisa'a story made me very glad we had done it.
This book is perfect. It is exactly how it should have been and exactly what we needed. A book of incredible stories from ordinary people who turned out to be far from ordinary when the need to act, be strong or to just survive was there.
The other thing this book does is remind you of your own Yasi story. We all have one. It's one of those 'Where were you when....' scenarios. It should never be forgotten and we must now remember that so many people were affected, so many still need our help and so many are still feeling the emotional toll of this event.
The book is $30 and worth every penny. 10% of all proceeds will go directly back into the areas worst hit, from Innisfail to Townsville. The True Spirit of Yasi is available from Sheds One 4041 3303, Compound 4051 3616 or the Westpac on Lake st are also selling them. Or you can call Lisa directly on 0402 210 330. Buy it. You will be glad you did.
After reminiscing all day after reading this wonderful collection of stories, I have chosen to re-post my poem that I wrote on my way home, a few short days after Yasi had been to Far North Queensland.
The Dall'Osto family went on a trip,
And they couldn't have been more ill-equipped,
In terms of clothing, food and with very little wealth.
They packed a few belongings,
But still had to go shopping,
For the mother forgot to pack clothes for herself.
Rocky saved our sanity,
Thank God they don't insist on vanity,
The van park full of those who got away.
They came from far and wide,
And drove all night to get inside,
Some queued up but there was no room left to stay.
Cyclone Yasi was a big one,
And we knew it would be no fun,
To hang around and listen to it's roar.
So we all holed up together,
And stayed tuned to the weather,
Some were praying as she came closer to the shore.
We might have been well out of reach,
But even in Rocky she let out a screech,
And we held our breath as Yasi let out hers.
She crossed the coast with much ado,
Flung tin and banana's as she went through,
Her name became the locals favourite curse.
We waited and we watched ,
As she made her way across,
Hoping houses were all she would destroy.
After several very long hours,
We learnt what happened to ours,
And the cat we left behind - that poor boy.
Turns out we were one of those she missed,
And most of Cairns was on that list,
But others didn't fare so well we found.
All the way from Ayr,
There were signs that she'd been there,
And debris was scattered all over the ground.
Entire towns were flattened,
Some were bruised and some were battered,
But all our prayers were answered by that storm.
For while she puffed with all her might,
And she stayed for half the night,
Only one young soul wouldn't live to see the dawn.
The pictures that came through,
When the day was shiny new,
Broke our hearts with the devastation that was shown.
All those places we know well,
Had gone through some kind of hell,
This was the biggest ever cyclone that they'd known.
Now we are here just one week later,
Seeing the mess left by Mother Nature,
The people standing strong and side by side.
As they all join in together,
And things start to look better,
The people here won't run, nor will they hide.
In this place where all their homes are,
Yasi has left some awful scars,
And sometimes the job ahead must seem too tough.
The residents are covered in mud and grit,
And they haven't lost heart, or hope, or wit,
But they'll need help from us all cos things are rough.
We need to give all that we can,
Be it cash or food or hands,
It's a monumental task from what I saw.
Buy bananas, buy good steak,
Right from the farmer's gate,
Together, let's make things even better than before!!
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