Wimmera Mail-Times Letters to the Editor - November 13, 2015

The money will be sent to the school to assist with the education of two children, one primary and one secondary, a full time teacher and sponsorship of a boarding house supervisor for eight teenage boys.

There are two boarding houses and campuses. Without boarding facilities, many children are unable to attend the school, walking up to four hours both ways each day. These children are the poorest of the poor and are now accessing education through the School of St Jude to fight poverty in their country. The children at the school also receive meals and health checks as well as bus travel for those close enough to still live at home and a school uniform. 

I consider it a privilege to assist them in any way as I feel our children have so much in comparison, and I always feel extremely proud of the school children who stride on stage as Wesley P.A.C. to strut their stuff.

A huge thank you to all the participating schools and their teachers for understanding the importance of this fundraiser by encouraging their students’ to perform. They deserve to know that they too are making a difference in the life of other children.

This is an exceptional amount raised and I am amazed at the ongoing generosity and support of Horsham and districts teachers, schools and students for their ability to think of others. 

LEA CRAMMOND

Horsham

AS chairman of the Wimmera River Improvement Committee (WRIC), I feel I should respond to some of the issues raised in the Mail-Times (November 9) regarding the proposed pedestrian bridge over the river.

The WRIC is a volunteer organisation which has been a part of the Horsham community since the river was widened and developed into the asset it is today. 

The committee volunteers work along the river each Wednesday morning, maintaining paths, clearing rubbish, doing plantings and much more. Over the years, in speaking with users of these paths on a regular basis, the main comment was a pedestrian bridge was needed in order to make another walking loop for those daily joggers and walkers. The committee has taken those comments to reality.

The site of the proposed bridge was chosen for several reasons. Firstly, it is about halfway between the Wimmera River Bridge and the next crossing at the weir. Secondly, it is the narrowest part of the river to connect both the south and north banks. Third, the site was chosen in order to give the Wimmera Rowing Club clear water for their events between the club rooms and the Wimmera River Bridge. It also has the ability to connect the playground on Southbank with public toilets. There is sufficient room for boats and others users of the river to pass underneath the bridge with safety.

The funding source has been from the state government’s Development Victoria Fund and from the developers of Southbank. Horsham Rural City Council money has been minimal, however, it is believed that further development on Apex Adventure Island is planned to enhance the project. Council representatives have always been supportive of WRIC ideas and ideals.

The Wimmera River Improvement Committee has always maintained the concept of making walking loops over the city waterways for the fit and not so fit. There are four crossings of Burnt Creek making four loops.  There are two crossings below the weir making two loops, each with all abilities access. The new pedestrian bridge will make a pleasant all abilities walk possible within the central city confines. It will also enable a safer more direct route for children riding their bikes to schools.

GARY AITKEN

Chairman, WRIC