Time to act
Dear Editor,
As an ordinary citizen with an interest in military history and current world affairs I feel compelled to submit the following. I will leave specifics to better qualified Defence experts however I feel able to comment on some defence aspects that appear to be currently ignored.
The present state of Australia’s Defence infrastructure is not dissimilar to the position that confronted the nation in the early 1940’s. Under resourced, unprepared, and relying on external nations for our defence.
The north of Australia is under populated, lacking infrastructure and under utilised. Vision and leadership have been lacking for decades. A Bradfield Scheme or something similar is urgently required. This is where the waters of northern coastal rivers are diverted inland for productive purposes. Northern and Central Australia could become a food bowl for much of Asia and the world. The whole Australian concept of creating a few coastal mega cities with extraordinarily expensive infrastructure needs urgent review.
The lack of long term vision extends to many areas. We are now (decades late) only starting to progress the Inland Rail project, vital infrastructure. However, 80 years on from the end of WW2, the lack of a standard gauge rail network is still a real impediment to the movement of heavy goods and equipment around much of the nation.
Australia requires leadership from both it’s politicians and bureaucracy especially in matters defence. The problems associated with procurement and capabilities have long been outlined by defence experts with limited results and much bureaucracy. This nation has been extremely slow to react. The same applies to recognising the importance of food production, agricultural support and adequate supply chains to deliver produce to ports.
The biggest impediment to improving this current situation is expecting different or better outcomes and results when the same people and organisations are still in control. This situation has evolved over many years and all sides of politics bear responsibility.
Bill Chisholm
Highway to Hell?
Dear Editor,
In April 2024 while travelling in the 100km zone in Wandong I was stopped by Wallan Highway Patrol, passed a BAC and a Drug Test then told I was pulled over for speeding, I was shown a radar gun with a faulty screen and took a photo of it whilst being coerced to say I was speeding in a 60 zone.
An infringement notice was issued stating High Street Wandong when no such street exists. l tried contacting Police Supervisor, and no one got back to me.
I received a fine in the mail and took it to Court and also wrote to IBAC with concerns of misconduct. In June, the response was that my complaint was not of public interest.
My first hearing at Seymour Magistrates Court in 2024 was adjourned. Body worn camera footage received from only one officer was missing audio, and supported my sworn statement. Police Statements mentioned multiple locations with many inconsistencies.
I hired a local lawyer to represent me at the next hearing, and on their advice a barrister would be required to cross examine Wallan Highway Patrol on perjury.
The day before court, April 2025, charges were dropped and later I was advised my legal costs would be paid.
I have no demerit points and would not be disqualified from driving, but others may not be so lucky and could lose their license, job, marriage etc.
This could easily happen to anyone or might have happened. I understand the importance of BAC tests and drug tests but the pressures of revenue raising can turn Police into corrupt public servants.
Having worked at a hospital during the COVID Pandemic I was extremely careful not to be the first to bring COVID to Kilmore because my community is important to me, but why should we be cautious of Wallan Highway Patrol as our community deserves much better than this.
Anonymous
(Name and address supplied)
What a weekend at the Seymour Expo
Dear Editor,
It was a privilege to spend the weekend at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo alongside my Nationals colleagues, friends, family, and the wider community.
More than 2,500 people stopped by my marquee for a yarn, to share feedback, and raise local issues. Listening to you is the most important part of my job as your voice in Parliament.
Now in its 34th year, the Expo is a cornerstone of our local economy, bringing people from across the country to experience the best our region has to offer.
It’s a celebration of the strength and innovation in our agricultural industry, showcasing everything from top-quality produce to sheep, cattle, and poultry.
Agriculture is the backbone of our regional economy, and events like this play a vital role in recognising the incredible work our farmers do every day.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by for a chat, and to those proudly carrying my bright yellow buckets through Kings Park, you certainly stood out.
Annabelle Cleeland
Member for Euroa
