Driving past the duck pond at dusk it's hard to see the sky past the apparent million or so bats that fly at that time.

The situation is really out of hand and I'm really sick of having to smell bat urine all the time in that area.

What is being done about this?

Having seen what people are panic-buying at this time (sorry, but toilet paper, tissues, paper towel and chips are not going to stop you from getting the coronavirus) it's clear that the people of the town have gone batty, so the new name really fits.

Hint: you won't need the toilet paper if you don't buy food.

Also read: Letters to the Editor, March 12

What can we do to provide toilet amenities in Nelson Bay including a disabled and mothers' room?

Visitors are appalled to think that they have to get down to the marina or go bludge on Woolworths or even beg for a key from a retailer to use their facility (which is usually refused).

We have recently driven to some lovely country towns and they always have clean welcoming facilities for tourists and shoppers.

Also read: Letters to the Editor, March 5

While the Government is doing its part in mitigating the health and economic effects of COVID-19, we can also contribute at individual level by:

1. Observing personal hygiene, as suggested by WHO e.g. frequently washing hands with warm water and soap, using tissue paper while sneezing/ coughing, using face-mask if necessary.

2. Maintaining proper communal hygiene- properly disposing off used tissue papers and masks, getting checked if in doubt or experiencing any flu-like symptoms, observing self-isolation if directed.

3. Frequently checking on your friends, family and neighbours, especially elderly ones, to see if they are okay or need any help.

4. Following general healthy dietary habits, as practicable.

5. Avoiding falling prey to panic and rumours.

6. Co-operating with healthcare staff where required.

Let's acknowledge that doctors, nurses and all the healthcare staff are working to keep us safe, when international boundaries, schools, offices are being closed and events, meetings are being cancelled. Someone had said- 'crisis brings out the best in humanity'. I believe our united Aussie spirit will help us navigate through this crisis safely.

Also read: Letters to the Editor, February 27

Compared with other tourist towns that suffered during the bushfires, Port Stephens has had another boom summer holiday period.

It's a bit rich to expect people to flock here because the Asian market has collapsed ['Holiday here' plea, Examiner, March 12].

Most businesses in the Bay miss out on Asian dollars as they are bused in and bused out, without spending a dollar in the town. I'm sure the dolphins are enjoying a little down time instead of being stressed by boat loads of overseas visitors. There's plenty of other Australian towns that now face a future that is bleak thanks to fires and the virus.

I for one will be spending my money going to Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

The single lane on Nelson Bay Road, causing gridlock for people leaving Nelson Bay at the old Lemon Tree Passage Road roundabout, has just been reinstated on the new roundabout. Very short sighted.

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