Over the past few weeks our actions and role have been called into question. We have been open and transparent with the Yarrawonga and Mulwala communities. We recognise the community input and support in developing this project that will have long-term economic benefits.

VicRoads also recognises that sometimes projects are supported that not everyone will be happy with. The Victorian and NSW governments have given their support to the preferred route and both VicRoads and Roads and Maritime Services have been getting on with the job of progressing with our respective planning approval processes.

Last week, we invited various stakeholder groups to meet with us for an update on the project. We explained how the recommendation for a new bridge and alignment was developed. This included the various studies that were undertaken, the involvement of the community and our own expertise and knowledge. We also set out the next steps in the planning process and the opportunities in the future for community members to possibly make public submissions at the appropriate times in the process. 

We will finalise our referral to the Minister for Planning shortly for a decision on whether an environmental effects statement is required, or other conditions must be met, to proceed with further planning for the preferred route. As always, members of the community are most welcome to contact us to discuss the project.

THE members of the Rutherglen RSL sub-branch express their sincere appreciation to the Rutherglen community for the fantastic support during the first half of 2016.

Support from small businesses, community clubs, schools, wineries, sports clubs and general community members ensured the success of RSL ventures. The annual golf day in March raised over $5000 for Legacy, Anzac Day was a fantastic success and special input from Rutherglen Lions Club, the school captains from Rutherglen High School and the Murray Brass Band.

The Queens’s birthday weekend wine raffle was a success, raising more than $7000 that will greatly assist the RSL in its work within the community.

I continue to be surprised at the support displayed within the Rutherglen community, whether it be with raffles, sales of poppies and Anzac Day tokens, or special events. It is particularly encouraging to see the youth of Rutherglen assisting, clearly demonstrating the efforts of those servicemen who died in wars and have suffered since is truly appreciated by younger generations.

February 2017 will see Rutherglen sub-branch celebrate its centenary of assistance in Rutherglen and surrounding areas. 

I HAVE been a voter for 71 years and I have never seen so many Coalition politicians visit the Indi electorate just over the border from me.

I guess it is to boost the Liberal and National Party profile in the area. Let's face it – Australia is in debt and politicians from all parties are spending money like it is going out of fashion on their electioneering campaigns around Australia. I wonder what the total cost will come to? All that money could have been spent wisely elsewhere.

All parties could use print media, TV and radio weeks previous to the elections to tell voters what their policies will be. Simple as that. I do hope everyone watched Q and A on Monday night which revealed Australia's debt crisis. Personally If I was able to cast a vote it would go to Cathy McGowan, since she was elected she has worked tirelessly as an Independent, she has proven that she is the right candidate to represent Indi in Canberra. You give credit where credit is due.