Cr Column Councillor Amanda Hall

Back in the day, the “three ‘R’s’” were taught in schools…Reading, (W)Riting and (A)Rithmetic.  They were the foundation of our education system and were to stand us in good stead as we navigated the world.  In the education system todayhowever, there is a totally different curriculum and today’s “three ‘R’s’” need to be taught at home.  Respect, Responsibility and Repercussion.  Respect for others and their property, responsibility for one’s actions and repercussions for actions taken.  The onus for teaching this starts with parents and begins in the home.  How incredibly sad that we have youth in our towns who feel entitled to vandalize not only public property but private as well.  

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Once again, you can’t let the facts get in the way of a good tale.  Good old Social Media and the keyboard warriors strike again.  A teacher of mine from my Saint Colman’s Primary School days in Home Hill, a Nun, was fond of saying to us “Empty vessels make the most noise”.  People certainly don’t disappoint.  The Mayor has her phone number and email address in her Councillor Column every week, or you can find all the Councilor’s contact details on the Council webpage.  Pick up the phone and ask your question or voice your frustrations/concerns.  But that doesn’t get the desired public reaction does it?  Sad.

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On the positive side of Social Media, the Burdekin has been the hot topic in a number of Facebook groups; Hayden’s Hut Bowen, Australian Art Trails, Roadside Art Australia Group and Art by Lavinia.  Each of these groups sing the praises of the Burdekin, the beautiful murals and Living Lagoon as well as numerous other tourism features.  How very refreshing.  The Burdekin definitely has a lot to offer and word of mouth is the best form of advertising.

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The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce held their AGM followed by their General Meeting last Wednesday night.  Congratulations to the new executive, Uli Liessmann, David Jackson, Lydia Flores and John Clark.  I was so happy that I attended as it meant the opportunity to hear from the proprietors of Scrubby’s Teahouse and Salted Roots Café, both new businesses to Home Hill.  Their investment is a great economic boost to the district and what wonderful, proactive ideas they have for the town!  (I’m lead to believe Scrubby’s scones are pretty good too).  Jump onto the Home Hill Chamber website and see when their upcoming social and networking meetings are, particularly if you have a business in Home Hill.  Come along and have a say in the future of Home Hill…they don’t bite.  

Saskia Volmer-Creek is putting together a book about “Growing up in Home Hill”.  If, like me you have fond memories of being a kid in Home Hill please email Saskia with your story on creekys@outlook.com.au.  Surely there are many wonderful stories out there.

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Lastly, the mobile Breast Screen van will be in Ayr from 17^th August to 18^th December.  Take a few minutes to look after your health and book your appointment by phoning 13 20 50.

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As always, you can contact me on 0427 827 386 with any concerns or queries.

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God Bless.

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