Councils got it wrong
I would like to express my dismay at the stand both councils are taking over the proposed lane hire fees the new management of the local pools are intending on charging the local swim and water polo clubs.
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Thirty years ago, my family moved to the lovely city of Wodonga and having three young children we all became involved with Wodonga Swimming Club and then the local water polo club.
As a new resident this was where we found lasting friendships, social inclusion that was all about families, exercise, fitness and the acknowledgement of everyone’s abilities in which our children were always encouraged and valued as club members.
We always purchased a family membership of the pool and of course, purchased food from the kiosk.
The local Mamouney family who ran both pools at the time where just the best and so supportive of the clubs.
As I now have grandchildren who may like to participate in swimming and or water polo I am really upset that financially this may be out of their family’s reach.
As a ratepayer I would really be in favour of the two councils not agreeing to this type of cost as I do believe that the clubs will slowly fold if they have to charge such high membership or only the wealthy will be able to afford this sport.
If this happens a lot of families will again be marginalised due to prohibitive costs and the idea that any child could one day be an Olympic champion will be lost to the majority of our local children.
Susan Morris, Wodonga
Education plan needed
Regional education is growing in Albury-Wodonga. The La Trobe University and Charles Sturt University campuses have added more courses and students places in the past five years. Teamed with Riverina and Wodonga TAFE, we have exceptional opportunities for education in Albury-Wodonga.
What is missing is the overarching planning and policy to support regional higher education into the future. That’s why I called on the government in Parliament to commit to regional policy that considers education, population, infrastructure and transport.
Regional Australia is ready and north-east Victorian communities are ready. Regional Development Australia is ready. Now we need the Commonwealth Government’s commitment to create a comprehensive and effective policy framework required for rural and regional Australia’s long-term prosperity.
The speech about Albury Wodonga and regional Australia is available at cathymcgowan.com.au/video_gallery
Cathy McGowan, member for Indi
Important memories
I read with great pleasure the memorial to Alick Keat. He was my grandmother's brother (Gertrude Maddison, nee Keat) and my great uncle.
I visited his grave in France in 1966 and sent photographs to her which she was thrilled to see before she passed away.
My sister Noelene Wylie also visited the grave years later. Thanks to Merle and Sharon (my cousins) for bringing this sad and historical event of 100 years ago to our notice.
Val Matthews
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