The Padmans did so much for this side of town, it's a disgrace to see the park being held to ransom by some bats. This was given to the ratepayers so how about getting on with it and clear the land before it is overrun with blackberries again.

There is a lot of history with the squatters camping along the river in there kerosene tin huts with young families and never spoken about. Currently there is a a nice walking/bike track just going to ruin, that goes through the run down boat ramp and further on.

The bats can stay but please tidy up this area and please don't sell the park as it will drive us batty. And no need to keep it a secret about the bats living there.

THE recent introduction of a compliance programme to address waste being put in the wrong bins is interesting.

However, here is a thought, why not reward the ones who consistently do the right thing? After all you catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar. Just sayin’.

While I am writing I would like to thank all the courteous drivers who have allowed me to reverse out of parking spaces in High Street. Very few of these did this in order to use the space I vacated.

AS a regular visitor to Melbourne Immigration Transfer Accommodation (MITA) centre in Broadmeadows, I have witnessed the effect of indefinite detention on people legally seeking asylum in my country.

Some people have waited up to seven years to gain refugee status. They are not criminals awaiting trial but overnight this facility has become a prison with no explanation or warning.

Single men, single women and family groups are now in separate zones and food delivered individually rather than to the usual communal diner. Written applications requesting visits to friends in other zones will be approved as the management 'sees fit'. For 27 isolated man there are three gym machines and four computers.

Rooms of 2.5m by 3m will now house two men sharing a cramped bunk. Outside visits to places of worship and recreation have recently been slashed. Activities within MITA are very limited.

The only relief for many is developing internal friendships and having visitors from outside. Leading human rights agencies, mental health care professionals, whistleblowers and the general public condemn Australia's inhumane conditions in offshore centres on Nauru, Christmas and Manus Island.

Now onshore at MITA similar punitive actions are further exacerbating problems of ill health, anxiety, anguish and worry for family, idleness and incessant waiting.

As we witness the valuable contribution refugees are making in our communities like Nhill and Goulburn Valley, we demand an explanation for this cruel treatment of innocent people awaiting their chance to start their life of freedom here.

The Border Mail is pleased to announce it will run a weekly letter of the week competition - the lucky winner receives a double pass from Regent Cinemas Albury to watch a movie of their choice. Please email approximately 250 word submissions to letters@bordermail.com.au

Winners will be announced on Saturdays in the Letters to the editor section. Winners should visit 1 McKoy St, Wodonga, to pick up prizes.