YOUR VOICE: November 13-19

UNCERTAIN OUTLOOK

As a resident of Outlook Drive, I am extremely disappointed that we have only just received official notification of the proposed rezoning of nearby land to allow a 75-lot housing development.

We have lived in this area for 26 years and purchased our property because it was a low-density housing area, giving us a semi-country life while living relatively close to town.

This change is going to dramatically alter the area. There will be an increase in noise levels and extra traffic. Kurunjang Drive and Outlook Ride are already struggling due to there being only one road in and out.

The rezoning will have a detrimental effect on our neighbourhood, lifestyle and valuation of our properties.

I would also like to ask, have any councillors actually visited the area?

Considering the growth of Melton, there are already plenty of choices for this type of development. If there is an emergency situation, I shudder to think of the ramifications. This is nothing but a money-making venture and has no positive outcome for the residents of Kurunjang.

GAIL LARKIN \ KURUNJANG

WORK SAFETY PLEA

With the festive season approaching and residents looking forward to a well-earned summer break, it’s important that safety remains a priority in our workplaces.

November and December are the most dangerous times of year in workplaces.

Last year, seven people died as a result of workplace injuries in November-December, more than double the number of fatalities in any other two-month period. In 2011, nine people died in a six -week period just prior to Christmas.

As the end of the year approaches, people naturally start thinking about things other than work, which means safety may not be uppermost in their minds.

It’s also a busy time of year, especially in agriculture where the pre-Christmas harvest season and the “get the job done” culture can be particularly dangerous.

Many fatalities at this time of year involve skilled and experienced people doing routine tasks, so no-one can take safety for granted.

Workplace safety is everyone’s business.

Christmas should be a time for family and friends, not visiting hospital or mourning a loved one, so please take care.

DENISE COSGROVE \ CEO WORKSAFE VICTORIA