Here is what our members have been up to recently in NSW Parliament.
Robert Borsak MLC
In Question Time on Tuesday, 24th September, Robert asked the Minister for Arts, Music and the Night Time Economy how the government is supporting amateur performing arts in rural, regional and remote NSW and the funding available. Click the link below to see Minister Graham's lengthy answer.
On Tuesday, October 15th, Robert addressed Minister Sharpe in a Question Without Notice, highlighting the hypocrisy of former Minister for Local Government, Wendy Tuckerman. Click the video link below to watch the Minister's response to Ms Tuckerman's concerns regarding the proposed plastic recycling plant in Moss Vale compared to her silence on the upcoming incinerator in Tarago.
https://youtu.be/4Dn4pzLLxuM?si=ePTIilZXLEBnJOGp
On 4th October, Robert had a meeting with NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb, Deputy Commissioner David Hudson and SSAA NSW CEO Andrew Macauley. They discussed the Firearms Safety Training Review, establishing a State Civilian Range Standard for range compliance, and the situation with Lithgow Small Arms Factory Museum.
Independent Forestry Panel
On Wednesday, October 16, Robert delivered a personal submission to the Independent Forestry Panel, highlighting the significance of sustainable forestry practices in regional and rural New South Wales for economic stability and environmental conservation. He advocated for the ongoing integration and expansion of various recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, and four-wheel driving, within State forest management. The shift from State forests to National Parks often leads to economic decline in local communities, as seen in the negative effects on job opportunities and the inability of ecotourism to offset lost forestry jobs. Additionally, traditional recreational activities play a vital role in the economy, support local culture, and offer essential environmental management benefits, such as invasive species control. The ongoing housing affordability crisis further emphasises the need for sustainable timber sourcing to decrease dependence on foreign logging practices.
Million Dollar Chase
Mark and Robert were both invited to attend the world's richest greyhound race, the Million Dollar Chase at Wentworth Park. Mark was given the honour of presenting the medal for Race 4. SFF has always supported the greyhound industry and was instrumental in having the ban overturned back in 2017.
On Sunday, October 20th, Robert and his wife attended the Special Luncheon Celebrating the 200th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Legislative Council in NSW. King Charles III attended and addressed the members and guests.
Mark Banasiak MLC
Fisheries Compliance Officers
Mark addressed the ongoing industrial action by Fisheries compliance officers, and their calls for a review of the Act governing their work, particularly regarding fines and infringements. The Minister acknowledged the importance of these concerns, noting that the matter is currently before the Industrial Relations Commission, and emphasised her commitment to ongoing discussions with Fisheries officers.
You can watch the video here:
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/RrpKR2jXRCArqgaF/
Policing of protest action
The NSW Greens brought on a Matter of Public Importance for debate, covering the right to protest in NSW. Given forestry works are continually targeted by illegal protests and are supported by the Greens, Mark contributed to the conversion.
The video is available below.
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/xtRqLd498hmXc7Nt/
Rec Fishing Grant
The Minister for Agriculture recently announced the release of $18 million in grant funding for recreational fishers. This is money from our recreational fishing fees going back into the industry, which had been largely locked up by the previous government. Mark has been working with the Minister intensely over the past year or so to really unlock and maximise this funding. You can see the minister's response here, where our advocacy is also acknowledged.
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/jxvDyKVh9WzomBBY/
Thank you for your continued support!
