Greetings and a big welcome to our regular Friday chatter.
It certainly goes without saying that this was the week that was. Firstly let me say that it is hard to write a weekly column that does not include some council issues.
The disappointment by the Directors of the Young Cool Stores was evident in their reaction when learning of the decision to relinquish further negotiations of the purchase of the Cool Stores by the council.
No doubt this decision has left some unanswered questions - has the building now seen any devaluation because of their actions?
Will these findings by council deter anyone else from considering purchase?
How many other prospective buyers have now gone elsewhere?
Will their findings make it difficult for someone else to purchase and develop the site?
The headlines on Friday, February 3 2012 in the Young Witness clearly states “Council buys Cool Stores” which begs me to ask, what comes first, the chicken or the egg?
The only light at the end of the tunnel could be a train coming the other way.
With news this week that negotiations for the proposed re-opening of the Demondrille/ Blayney rail line have been taken another step further, the Cool Stores would make an ideal freight receival centre as was the case many years ago with the now demolished good shed.
The decision to go forward with discussions on the proposed CCTV issue is a positive step.
It was put forward to a previous council some time back but failed to gain a backing. It’s a pity it didn’t get the green light then, think how much we could have saved in damages.
I must say I was disappointed at the non-attendance of one of our newest councillors at the last council meeting. Regardless of the reason, which I thought was a little trivial, we need representation.
We were promised so much in the run up to the election and we expect to receive value for money.
The printed versions of the meetings I think will be available to those who require it fairly soon.
Speaking to a couple of councillors, they are of the opinion that the printed version should be made available at the front desk on request, forget the savings!
If you thought the Cool Store issue was hard to follow, try working out the logistics of having to tell creditors the Young Roller Flour Mill was closing today, Friday, (12th Oct) and within just a few days, (17th Oct) 10,000 tonne of wheat arrived from Tullibigeal two hours away.
This was unloaded into the silos and a large number of employees were reinstated - too hard for me and my crystal ball.
We seem to be going around in circles, so let’s open up this report and get serious.
Going round in circles can be hazardous, just ask the red headed, rather tall, 63 year old refrigeration mechanic who unfortunately was struck by a motor vehicle whilst riding his expensive bicycle on a Boorowa Street roundabout.
He received injuries to his hip and shoulder and was transported to St. George hospital in Sydney for examination before being returned to Wagga for treatment in the next few days. We hope he is soon on the way to a full recovery.
It was nice to see the Police patrolling the Skate Park and Pool surroundings on Sunday afternoon. This is not the first time I have noticed the constabulary casting their eyes in that direction - their presence I am sure is reassuring to those users who are of a younger age.
The turf cricket wickets have received plenty of water over the past week and they look really good. We are fortunate in Young that we have numerous sporting fields that cater for many sporting bodies.
The provisions of these amenities allow many of our young folk to hone their skills in their respective sports and possibly go on to represent this wonderful town.
No doubt Bronwyn and Steve Lyon will be packing their bags over the next week to follow the exploits of their number one son, Nathan who commences his summer cricketing campaign in Brisbane in a week or two.
Like many young people, Nathan gained his early experiences in Young before heading to Canberra then Adelaide before being selected in the South Australian and Australian teams as a spinner.
Nathan has achieved some great results in his short career, taking 42 wickets in 13 tests at an average of 27.83.
Numerous young people have achieved some great results in their chosen sport gaining both State and National selection.
Can I just say thank you to all those people who attended the Blood Bank this week, it was greatly appreciated by all those involved. We are coming to a very busy holiday period and all donations are going to help save many lives.
The Blood Bank will return to Young on November 19 for three days and then on December 17. Please keep those dates in mind and please give consideration to becoming a donor. A reminder to allour ladies that the Breast Screening van is in town, so don’t forget to call in opposite the Tourist Office.
Just finally, the much publicised Open Gardens are on this weekend, so take a drive and soak up the colour and freshness of a country garden. Talking of colour, hope to see you at the Harden Picnics tomorrow, a big day for many locals.
The Presbyterian Church flower show and fete is also on tomorrow from 1:30pm And let’s not forget the Poets night at the Wombat pub on Sunday from 7pm.
With free admission it’s good fun for all ages. Young Show President Jim Lamb will no doubt be amongst the crowd to quote another poem from his little brown book.
