Meryl Swanson | Girl Guides, Testers and affordable housing

It led to much reminiscing, especially with “Brown Owl” Beth Masterman, about my wonderful time as a Brownie and a Guide. It is really great to see so many women and girls still involved in the Guiding movement.

I was a Brownie from the time I was seven, and really learnt some important life skills and went on some great adventures. I can still tie a reef knot and fold hospital corners!

I know Kurri Kurri Girl Guides are looking for more members, and I would encourage girls to give it a go.

We have moved a step closer to raising Cessnock Road at Testers Hollow, with the Government announcing work will start next year.

I was very pleased to receive the media release from Federal Minister for Infrastructure Darren Chester last week, in response to my repeated questioning about when the Government would deliver on its election promise.

You might remember the Liberals criticised Labor for committing $10million to the project, then did an about face and upped the ante to pledge $15million.

I was determined they would not get away with failing to deliver, and they have announced they will honour the commitment. This is a real win for our community.

Now all we need is for the State Government to contribute more than a meagre $2million to ensure the work is adequate to stop flooding.

We’ll be back in Canberra soon for the delivery of the Budget.

Last week Labor Leader Bill Shorten launched a policy to help young people and first home buyers get into the housing market. Hopefully the Turnbull Government will adopt some of the policies, such as reforming negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions, introducing a vacant property tax in capital cities and , increasing foreign investor fees.

This year I commemorated Anzac Day by attending services at Kurri Kurri, Medowie and Maitland.

 It is pleasing to see so many people of all ages gather to remember the fallen. Many also took advantage of the interactive display about World War I held at Kurri Kurri and Cessnock libraries in the lead-up to Anzac Day.

Lest we forget.