In the Cootamundra electorate there are an estimated 1350 people living with dementia. That figure is projected to increase to about 2400 by 2050.

Because holiday celebrations provide a time for families and friends to come together after what can often be long periods of time, it is in these instances that changes in thinking, memory and behaviour can seem most apparent.

That’s why this festive season we’re encouraging families to re-assess their loved one’s condition and situation. This is important in identifying what extra support might be required in light of any change in behaviours or worsening of symptoms.

If you notice changes in a loved one or have any other concerns, I urge you to call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 to speak to an expert. 

Our dementia advisors are trained to listen to your concerns, and to provide compassionate, targeted support that can empower you to make key decisions and access the local services and supports that are available in your local area.

Your concerns are our concerns, so no matter how minor or major the issue, every call matters.

To the Cootamundra community members and the business houses of Cootamundra, members of the Southern Cross Care Auxiliary would like to thank you all for your commitment and support given to us throughout the past 12 months.

We would like to wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy new year and, as there are too many to list, could you please accept this as a personal thank you on behalf of the president and committee members.

CITY-BASED politicians make decisions on behalf of country people but they do not have to live with policies that affect Australian towns and rural farming communities. The Murray Darling Basin Plan is a case in point. The farmers are the ones taking all the risks.

Senator Nick Xenophon will not support the government unless he reaches agreement over water to give South Australia at the expense of reducing water allocations for farming communities in the basin.

Senator David Leyonhjelm has travelled to Griffith and its regions and he is standing up for water farmers and towns.

The backpacker’s tax was 32.5 per cent and it’s now 15 per cent.

Our politicians should take time off on their holidays and have a go at picking fruit for a week, and learn about climate change.

It can be hot and dusty one day, and the next day cold. 

Backpackers pay their way picking fruit, they should not be asked to pay any tax. They are helping do a job that Australians do not want to do.

Backpackers travel; they spend their money in towns, shops, pay for food and accommodation.

Fruit pickers are helping the economy and at the same time having a holiday working and playing.

Young city Australians could do the same and see how fruit grows on a tree and the outback is a big country to see.

Superannuation came about with Paul Keating setting it at 5 per cent in 1996.

That year, we paid super for our workers about $100 into a company.

What happened to the super money? That is the $100 question.