Having discussed with other residents in the local area we believe that there aren’t enough parks in Cessnock for our children to enjoy.

It would be beneficial for the people of Cessnock if the council created a large shaded park with trees, gardens, bicycle track and play equipment like what they boast about at Maitland Park Playground and the Lake Macquarie Variety Park at Speers Point.

Such a park could be created on Aberdare Road where the former run-down Cessnock City Bowling Club site remains.

This site is conveniently located to sporting fields, tennis courts and schools, all of which contain plenty of parking.

Creating this park would provide a safe environment for our children to enjoy, attract visitors to the area, while also generating jobs through construction and maintenance.

I live in Baileys Lane, Abermain. 

Remember Baileys Lane?  Cut off from civilization due to no bridge access. 

Baileys Lane! Pot holed filled dust bowl. 

Baileys Lane, where you need a cut lunch and a two-day trek to get to town.

I'd like to invite the Council person or persons responsible for bridge and road fixing to go on an excursion to Torryburn.

Torryburn have been without a bridge for as long as Frame Drive bridge but now have a beautiful new bridge. 

Maybe you could get some ideas on how to fix bridges?

Also, on the way home, we could visit HEZ and get some ideas on how to build roads. 

HEZ has great roads. 

Maybe HEZ might let us have some of their road since it's not being used? 

Dear Editor,

You asked what did we think about the flooding and alleviation programmes set up by Cessnock Council.

Well, Madam, I am sure that any reasonable person could question whether some of those responsible are incompetent.

My files indicate that there have been up to 12 flood studies, all but one by the same consultant. 

I haven’t seen a timeline of peak flood and that is essential. 

Now the debacle that was HEZ and its addition to the flooding and damage of the Main Cessnock Road adds $100 million to the local cost and increases the flooding at Fourth Street. 

Devastating floods occurred in 2007 and 2015. An elderly couple in Weston told me how the incoming waters forced them to climb their two-metre back fence to escape. 

A lady in Abermain told me she was knocked over at her front steps and only managed to save her life in the dark raging waters by grabbing a tree branch. 

Houses are severely affected with mould and rot. 

Those homes are now worthless. 

Why are not these tortured people represented by the warring political parties interested in birds? 

Sad loss of a young, promising young woman.

RIP Olivia xx Sending prayers and love to your family and friends.

Reminds us of how we don't know how long we have left. RIP Olivia.

I am sorry for your loss. Your daughter lived large. Most people don’t.