Accountability needed
Having read the few comments on Backchat (Examiner, Oct 24) and the news of the scheduled demolition of the Donald Street carpark for $1.59m of ratepayers' money, I presume most people are happy to get rid of the "eyesore", but I don't believe anybody should be proud of it happening.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Many years ago I parked my car once or twice there, and saw that water was leaking from the upper floor, causing corrosion of the steel reinforcement in concrete floor, and cracking of the concrete.
Such consequence was commonly called "concrete cancer". As far as I am aware, no person(s) nor organisation(s) have been held accountable to this day.
What had caused the failure in design or construction?
The Information would be valuable for the building industry and beneficial to the community.
I sincerely hope that the new legislation proposed by the NSW Government would cover these types of building failures for the sake of accountability and transparency.
Ernest To, Medowie
Also read: Letters to the Editor, October 24
No planning on planting
It has come to my attention that the Port Stephens Council helped facilitate the recent planting of several Eucalyptus Robusta (Swamp Mahogany) trees in the vicinity of Henderson Park, Lemon Tree Passage.
It is of my opinion that the tree planting was conducted in haste with little consideration toward the local residents and their right to a peaceful, safe and clean environment.
Likewise, the koalas and bats do deserve a peaceful, safe and clean environment - but not in the same area.
The trees planted in the middle of the Henderson Park's "bushfire neighbourhood safer place - a place of last resort" would surely compromise the effectiveness of this sanctuary, therefore it has the potential of endangering life.
It is a well documented and established fact that Eucalyptus Robusta, especially when shrubs are planted around their bases, attracts bats.
Bats are a well-known mixing pot for viruses, some of which can spread to other animals and humans.
Therefore I am deeply concerned that flying-fox camps in public places can raise concerns about possible health risks for people.
As well as infections, other concerns are noise, odour and the impact of flying-fox droppings on houses, cars, and washing.
Trevor Coots, Lemon Tree Passage
Also read: Letters to the Editor, October 17
Take a minute's silence
Australians are justifiably proud of our Australian Defence Force current serving members and our veterans.
On 11 November at 11am, this and every year, I encourage all Australians to pause for a minute's silence and remember all those who have suffered and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
Every year we mark Remembrance Day because it was at this time and date in 1918 that the guns fell silent on the Western Front, officially ending the First World War.
Originally known as Armistice Day, this day reminds us to pause and remember those who served in the 'war to end all wars' and every conflict and peacekeeping mission since.
We especially honour the more than 102,000 Australians who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and the freedoms we enjoy today.
Remembrance Day is commemorated in towns, cities and local communities across Australia and overseas and I encourage everyone to attend a service and wear a red poppy in memory of our servicemen and women.
Thank you for your service.
Lest we forget.
Darren Chester, Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel
IN OTHER NEWS