Maybe it's about time we all vetoed the rail services and used the coach lines (not V/Line) as they are more comfortable and definitely more reliable. If everyone between Albury and Melbourne did this, they would lose so much money, they would be forced to do something about our third-world rail system.

FIFTY years ago, a submarine was an effective machine for the two world wars when there were no efficient fighter jets or GPS to locate the oncoming submarines which would destroy the surface naval ships or harbours.

In the modern time with the effective rudder and GPS system, it is very easy to locate a submarine and then fire a missile that could destroy submarine instantly.

The thought of building submarines is for border protection. At present the border threat is by unfortunate refugees. To prevent them landing on Australian shores, the government needs only fast-moving naval boats, not submarines.

Under these circumstances, one may ask is it necessary to spend $50 billion on submarines that may even become obsolete as new technology evolves?

In 2013 the slogan by the Coalition government was debt and deficit, and the government was paying $100 million a month as interest and this needed to come to an end.

After three years, the same government added another $20 billion debt and one would wonder what amount of interest the government is paying now. Why, all of a sudden, has the debt and deficit slogan also disappeared?

In spite of such huge debts and deficits the Turnbull government found $50 billion for 12 new submarines that may become obsolete by the time they are delivered, perhaps by 2035.

However, the French government is celebrating it could create 50 thousand new jobs from the Australian government’s subscription to make those 12 submarines.

One would think it is a waste of taxpayers’ money to pay French nationals for submarines. It would have been much wiser if money was used for improving congested cities with highways and freeways and parking spaces, as well as new locations for few more aerodromes.

FOR far too long, the consequence of poor infrastructure causing people to fall in the street has been ignored.

With funding from VicHealth, Victoria Walks commissioned Monash University Accident Research Centre to conduct a detailed study of falls while walking and the results are very worrying.

This research found trips and falls in the street send more than 5000 pedestrians to hospital in Victoria each year – even more than collisions with cars. While people of all ages might fall, the consequences of falling can be devastating for older people in particular. Falling and breaking a hip can be life-changing and lead to premature death. International research shows that up to 40 per cent of hip fracture patients die within a year of their injury. The Victorian government need to start investing in making walking safer and supporting councils to improve footpath surfaces and road crossings. We urge everyone to take notice and report issues to their local council.

A report on April 28 "Roar of outcry against $1 deal" incorrectly stated four Indigo Shire councillors, out of seven, voted for a Rutherglen Lions Club rental agreement. The correct vote was five votes for, two against.