Autonomous Regions Coalition Update

The ARC Launch was held in Clunes on March 21st. Many politicians and prominent persons had been invited, among them the Hon. Gough Whitlam, who had read and considered the proposals but had to attend the Commonwealth Games. He sent his “best wishes for the event”. Apologies were also received from the Federal Members for Page and Richmond. The State Member for Lismore, Thomas George, did attend and after listening to the presentation and waiting for most questions to be answered, was happy to take the floor and address the issues raised.

Thomas explained things from his perspective and surprised some by indicating on the map where he, if he had his way, would put the border - shifting it below Lismore so as to include us all in Queensland. An interesting view from a NSW State Member, but he is not alone in this thinking.

Supper was provided, and, in being consistent with our autonomous theme, all the tea and coffee was sourced locally. Madura Tea from Murwillumbah, Koala Herbal Tea from Alstonville and Rosebank Gold Coffee, kindly supplied by John Nilon. Much thanks to John who also supplied the coffee machine and some choc-coated beans for the event!

ARC’s ‘Cuppa Local Please!’ Campaign- Just imagine for a moment if we could at least try to buy only local tea and coffee, using local milk, sugar and honey. Even that simple consumer change would help generate jobs and income into the area and save heaps on unnecessary transport, and pollution. We have a crazy and irrational situation these days highlighted by the fact that right now they are selling the more marketable bright orange American oranges in Mildura (and everywhere else) while they plow the local not-so-orange oranges into the ground. Something’s fundamentally wrong and needs fixing and that is one of the areas ARC is looking into, in creating more self-reliant agricultural regions with greater focus on local trading.

Where is the ARC Headed?

We are in the process of formally establishing the ARC association and would like to hear from all persons interested in being involved. We will also be doing a series of presentations in other major town centres around the Northern Rivers, so look out for posters on where and when.

To contact ARC ring the editor on 66882220 or email kindred@nrg.com.au.

Garth Kindred

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