These zones were originally adopted in 2006 when the Labor Government, aided by the Greens, simply drew lines on maps to satisfy their requirement of 20 per cent fishing closures for the Batemans Marine Park. In particular the Nangudga Inlet "no take zone" has banished prawn fishing for families for the past 13 years, with absolutely no scientific or conservation outcome.

Those with a long memory may remember the huge fish kill in January 2010, simply due to the intransigence of the (then) Marine Parks Authority that was extensively reported in the Narooma News at that time.

It is pleasing to see the government is following principles laid out by the Marine Estate Management Authority’s pursuit of identifying, and rectifying, sources of pollution and environmental damage to the marine environment. Amongst many examples, surely fishers would know of the pollution issues that occur in Wagonga inlet after any significant rain event, where the inlet is closed to oyster harvest for a time and in Sydney harbour, west of the Sydney Harbor bridge, where no fish or prawns are recommended to be eaten.

"No take zones" as proposed by the Greens and so-called conservation groups will never rectify these issues.

Further, Mr Constance is proposing that divers be allowed to remove sea urchins from "no take zones", a highly commended action that is known to help the biodiversity loss caused by these creatures moving south due to warming sea temperatures

My husband, Peter, died recently after five years in Estia, Dalmeny.

I would like to acknowledge the courteous, efficient care he was given by all staff and employees in the nursing home - vare that still allowed him some dignity, despite the inevitable effects of Alzheimer's.

We are truly fortunate to have such a team of hard workers in our community; people who every day, face demanding situations with professionalism, cheerful kindness and understanding.

Thank you, Estia

Since May 2016 we have been in regular correspondence with Eurobodalla Shire Council in an attempt to get minor, yet necessary works completed to the heavily used Apex Park Boat Ramp at Narooma.

These works will improve access and safety for aged and disabled people as they try to use the disability-designed stainless steel platform at the jetty.

The costs are acknowledged by the council as minor, easily implemented and will also mitigate damage to recreational boats.

At this time the disability access platform is not used because boats cannot access the jetty without adequate bumper protection for boats. Hence many aged and disabled people are prevented from enjoying the wonderful water system of Wagonga and its surrounds.

In September 2016 (a letter was received): "The proposed modification works on the boat ramp, to be undertaken by the council, are expected to be completed prior to the December 2016 Christmas period". Several follow up letters have been sent and despite further promises the minor works remain outstanding. It is a bit rich for them to use the words “responsible and proud” in their vision statement.