Letters to the Editor - Saturday, October 15

Letters to the Editor - Saturday, October 15.

Examples of free speech and inclusion

ONE of the cornerstones of our democracy is that all of us are entitled to say whatever we please, and to date this has underpinned our society since Federation.

So much in the Australian way of life has been taken for granted, fair go, helping out a mate etc. that we really have not needed to talk about it, rather it has been woven into our national fabric.

Living on an isolated island as we do many of the world's problems have left us untouched but with ease of transport, communications and the media we can no longer turn our heads away from the issues with which the rest of the world grapples constantly.

Times have changed and we must adapt. To guard our free speech and use it effectively it is time for real Australians to speak up for the fair go for everyone, especially the marginalised, those struggling on welfare, indigenous people and refugees.

If we do not use our privilege of free speech we are in danger, to use Pauline Hanson's words, of being swamped by ill informed opinion, in the same way that America is being swamped, leaving that country exposed to the danger of having a leader who is capricious, venal and vicious.　

We should be thankful for, with all its faults, stable government and the ability to use the ballot box for our voices to be heard. Looking forward rather than backward is crucial.

We in Coffs Harbour have provided a safe home for many refugees and their children will grow up to take their place as "dinkum Aussies".

Let us not be distracted by the increasingly strident voices of those who fear change, but speak up for an inclusive society.　

Margaret England, Korora

Stars raise 80k for cancer services

CANCER Council NSW would like to thank the Coffs Coast community, businesses, and sponsors for their wonderful support of our seventh annual Stars of Coffs Coast Dance for Cancer event which raised $80,000.

This event would not have been possible without the generous support and sponsorship of the C.ex Group, the local dance teachers and of course our local stars.

Congratulations to Brendan Greatz from North Coast Power and Water and Sam Ross from Social Concepts who with their urban-based hip hop dance piece won the Judge's Choice Award.

Also to David Bourke from Oosh who danced with Cathie Mackay from Pacific Dance Centre to win the People's Choice Award with their very theatrical, vampire inspired ballroom segway and Karen Hacking from C.ex Group who raised the highest funds of $17,927 and danced Zouk with Chris Pemberton-Lewis from Coffs Latin Rhythms.

Funds raised from this event will support cancer research, local cancer support and information services and cancer prevention campaigns such as Eat It To Beat It, Tackling Tobacco and Sun Sound.

Thank you all.

Brenna Smith, Community engagement manager