This raises a similar broader issue that is damaging the Australian environment, while also adversely impacting our prosperity.
We are seeing local and international environmental activists allowing their ideologies to dictate sound decision-making and unfortunately our politicians are fooled by their rhetoric, or frightened to openly oppose it for fear of ‘green’ backlash.
Cape York, as Peter Ridd points out, is no longer in its pre-European state because so-called environmental ‘experts’ will not allow the natural burning that took place centuries ago.
In my region, the southern part of the Murray-Darling Basin, we are at risk of increased flood events and are damaging riverbanks with excessive flows, because environmentalists want the Murray River and its environs returned to their ‘natural’ state.
But this is impossible, due to construction of dams and demands from South Australia for massive quantities of water to be sent from one end of the system to the other, regardless of the water loss or damage.
Exacerbating the situation, and I suspect it’s the same in Cape York, are those on the government funding gravy train who live on taxpayer dollars by presenting the information and arguments that suit a political narrative.
From the north of our great country to the south, we are being handicapped by false ideologies led generally by those with little genuine knowledge, no ‘skin in the game’ and unaffected by their ill-informed pursuits.
I welcome the day, if it ever comes, when this changes.
Shelley Scoullar,
Albury, NSW
Salvos say ‘thank you’
With the start of a new year, 2025 offers us a chance to reflect on the year that has passed, and also look forward to the new beginnings offered in the year ahead.
For The Salvos, looking back on 2024 means reflecting on the one person every 17 seconds that we helped throughout the year. It is a privilege to stand alongside Aussies doing it tough and provide them with support and hope.
It also means reflecting on the generosity of you, the Australian public, who help make this vital work possible. So, from all of us at The Salvation Army, and on behalf of all those we support every day, to the Australian public we say thank you.
Thank you particularly for your generosity towards our Christmas Appeal, which helped provide a special Christmas to those who would have otherwise gone without.
If it wasn’t for your support, kids would have gone without presents under the tree, families without a special Christmas meal and many without hope and joy during the festive season. For this, we say thank you.
Now, as we look towards 2025, The Salvation Army wants to make an encouragement to those around the country.
While some Australians were in the position to give to The Salvos during Christmas, many others found it to be one of the most financially crippling times of the year, particularly as our nation faces a cost-of-living crisis.
To anyone who found themselves in that position, and now may be facing debt, financial hardship or stress about money, we want to let you know that there is hope at the start of this year.
The Salvos Moneycare service offers free and confidential financial counselling to thousands of Aussies each year, helping them to get on top of their finances.
There is no better time than the start of a new year to take a fresh look at your finances and get on top of your financial situation.
We encourage all Australians to take a look at their finances this year, and if you are struggling to cope financially, please reach out to The Salvation Army’s Moneycare service.
We are here for you, and there is no shame in reaching out for support. Please don’t wait until it is too late.
Reach out to Moneycare today by calling 1800 722 363 or going to: https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/need-help/financial-assistance/moneycare-financial-counselling/
Colonel Rodney Walters,
The Salvation Army
