DON’T BE DUPED
A phone scam involving the Australian Tax Office is doing the rounds trying to convince people that they will be arrested, charged with tax fraud, have all their assets seized, and face up to 10 years in prison.
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A so-call federal agent phoned me one Friday leaving a message on my answering machine claiming he was acting on behalf of the ATO.
I phoned back to discover that an arrest warrant was about to be filed against me over numerous breaches of various federal government taxation and criminal acts.
This person had my name, address, phone number, not to mention he knew I was on a disability pension.
It all sounded very official and confronting, and I believe that many an elderly pensioner would have panicked and fallen for the scam.
If I had not become suspicious about the phone number I too would have fallen for it.
Thankfully I ran a phone number check on the internet and sure enough two listings came up warning about it.
I have informed the ATO about this incident and they have said they will investigate.
Pensioners, and others, are at real risk of having thousands of dollars stolen from them in the belief that they are paying a legitimate fine.
David Atwell
Greens Council Candidate
ELECTIONS ARE IMPORTANT
Elections are an important part of democracy. An occasion where citizens can have a say on the issues that matter most importantly to them.
Next month’s Cessnock council election is no different.
In my opinion it is an opportunity to continue with a stable and efficient council, led by Mayor Cr Bob Pynsent.
In 2012 Cr Pynsent was elected as Mayor at a time when our city was hurting and was given the responsibility to lead Cessnock into the 21st century.
He has exceeded expectations in this role.
Cr Pynsent’s leadership in this term of council has been comforting for many residents in our community.
He has delivered stability and growth.
You have to admire the $86 million investment in local roads, which would never have been possible under an independent council.
Sightings of pot holes have diminished significantly.
He has also influenced the public’s perception surrounding council’s governance.
Once considered an embarrassment, Cessnock council is now one of a handful of Hunter Councils deemed to be ‘Fit for the Future’.
This is not just a coincidence.
Four years of hard work from a mayor with a passion for the job has improved council’s bottom line and guaranteed its survival as a stand-alone entity.
Cr Pynsent’s presence in the community highlights his passion to achieve a number of initiatives for his constituents.
He has actively engaged with the community and offered stable and efficient leadership.
When you cast your vote this election day make sure you remember the past.
Our economic future is in your hands.
Jordan Fallon, Secretary
Australian Labor Party, Cessnock branch
MATTRESS MUSTER
How about you be a decent council and have kerbside collection? It’s the least you could do with the state of the roads in Cessnock. They are absolutely appalling when we cover the majority of the Hunter’s wine region and need the tourisim.
Chris Polglase
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