'Canberra Calling' - Pyrenees Advocate 17 December 2010.
Last week I welcomed the Federal Opposition Leader, the Hon Tony Abbott MHR, to Wannon on a visit to Warrnambool, Port Fairy, Hawkesdale and Hamilton.
Last week I welcomed the Federal Opposition Leader, the Hon Tony Abbott MHR, to Wannon on a visit to Warrnambool, Port Fairy, Hawkesdale and Hamilton.
This was a great opportunity to showcase Western Victoria to the Leader of the Opposition, and for Mr Abbott to be able to hear first‐hand from our local communities about the issues that are important to them.
Issues raised with Mr Abbott included: the need for greater Federal funding for local roads; changes to the Youth Allowance rules; the need for improved local health services; the need for employment rules that encourage young people to work; and the importance of sustainable agriculture practices.
Mr Abbott met with business people in Warrnambool and enjoyed an early morning swim and surf boat row with Port Fairy Life Saving Club. He also attended a civic reception in his honour hosted by the Warrnambool Shire Council.
Mr Abbott also visited ‘Minjah’, east of Hawkesdale, to learn more about sustainable agriculture practices and saw first hand how farmers in Wannon are taking direct action to improve the environment.
Mr Abbott was guest speaker at a dinner for former Member for Wannon, Hon David Hawker to pay tribute to his service on behalf of our local community and the nation. This event was a sold‐out success, with approximately 210 people attending, and was a fitting farewell for David.
Mr Abbott praised Mr Hawker for his 27 years of service and the significant contribution he made to the Federal Parliament, especially as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chairman of the House Economics Committee and as a hard working local Member.
The opportunity of welcoming the Leader of the Opposition to the wonderful electorate of Wannon was a fitting way to end 2010 and I’d like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a relaxing holiday. Above all else, given the increased traffic on our roads at this time of year, please take care when travelling this festive season.
‐ENDS‐
Media Contact: Rachelle Miller 03 5572 1100 or 0408 564 232
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