NO MENTION OF HOW MARKET COULD WORK
Twenty years ago when the water trading platform was being developed, as a student studying an agriculture degree, we were taught the ideology of water trading at the time.
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We learnt how separating water rights from the land title allowed water to be used on crops which provided the most profit.
What was never taught was city-based investors would start to own a significant portion of the water, forcing profits from this region to leave the community every time temporary water was purchased.
It was never explained that water trading would enable thousands of gigalitres to be purchased by the crown to be taken out of production.
Nor did the push to separate water from the title indicate in two decades water would increase in value 3500 per cent.
Although, we were told to buy as much as we could.
It was encouraged we remained aware governmental policies changes could lead water to become a 'stranded asset'.
That is water could become an asset that could be used, but no longer be sold.
While that water trading has allowed this region to expand production of the wine grape industry and others.
Water trading is starting to hurting this community with profits not staying here.
Surely good governance of any industry requires reviews to take place periodically.
Isn't it time the State and Federal governments review the water trading industry to ensure it encourages productivity?
After all, informed water investors know they may be required to use the water they own.
Greg Adamson, Griffith
KEEP SHARING THE F.A.S.T MESSAGE
National Stroke Week may be over for another year, but raising awareness of the F.A.S.T signs of stroke is an ongoing mission we can all embrace.
I was heartened by the thousands of volunteers right around the country who took part in events throughout September 2 to 8 to raise awareness of stroke and its symptoms in their local communities.
On behalf of the Stroke Foundation, I can't thank you enough.
I encourage all Australians to keep sharing the potentially life-saving F.A.S.T acronym with their friends, family and colleagues all year round. It involves asking these simple questions if you suspect a stroke:
- Face Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
- Arms Can they lift both arms?
- Speech Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
- Time is critical If you see any of these signs call triple zero (000) straight away
The more people who know this message and call triple zero at the first sign of stroke, the better.
Stroke is a devastating disease that strikes the brain and can change lives in an instant, but thanks to medical advancements in recent decades many people are able to make a good recovery if they are treated quickly and the damage is stopped.
While 80 percent of strokes display one or more of the F.A.S.T signs, other symptoms can present including dizziness, loss of balance or vision, headache and difficulty swallowing.
Remember, anyone can have a stroke. If you or someone else experiences any of the signs of stroke, even if they last a few minutes, call triple zero immediately.
Taking fast action could save a life.
Sharon McGowan, Stroke Foundation CEO
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