Dec2014_DICKSON NEWS
Peter Dutton MP
Federal Member for Dickson
Ph: 3205 9977
Support for the Troops
This Christmas I ask Dickson residents to spare a thought for Australian Defence Force members deployed on overseas operations, along with those recently returned from active service who are in need of some additional care.
Right now more than 2,200 ADF personnel are deployed on overseas operations. This includes peacekeeping operations as well as assisting the Iraqi people counter the threat posed by ISIL.
Please consider donating to the RSL, Legacy or Solider On. These organisations support our troops, particularly those who have been wounded and those family members who are suffering from the loss of a loved one.
You can send a message to the troops by sending an e-mail to supportthetroops@defence.gov.au . You should include your name, suburb and state at the top of the message. Your message will be circulated to the troops, and could feature on Defence websites and social media.
You can find out more information, including information on how to send care packages, at the following website: http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp .
Free Trade Agreement with China
Australia has signed a declaration of intent for a free trade agreement with China. It has taken almost 10 years to conclude the agreement, and Prime Minister Abbott and Trade Minister Andrew Robb have achieved what is a fantastic deal for our country. The agreement will result in more jobs for Australians, significantly more exports, and lower prices for imports. It will deliver an important boost to the economy.
In the last year the Coalition Government has also signed free trade deals with Japan and Korea. If all goes to plan, we will next year be signing a free trade deal with India. We are working hard to give the Australian economy the strongest footing possible and to open doors to global markets for Australian companies.
Christmas Card Competition
Christmas is almost upon us. I have run my Christmas Card Competition again this year. Students in Prep to Year Three who attend local schools received an entry form to submit their design. This year’s theme is “How I celebrate Christmas”. We have some fun prizes for the schools participating and the respective winners. The winners are always proud to see their masterpiece in print! Look out for my Christmas card in your letterbox to see the winning entries.
Dickson Australia Day Community Awards
The Dickson Community Awards are presented each year on Australia Day. The awards recognise people who, through volunteer work or contributions, above and beyond their normal activities, have made our community a better place.
If you would like to nominate someone who you believe has made an outstanding contribution to the Dickson community, you can pick up a nomination form from my office.
Marquee Hire
I have a 6 x 9m marquee available for community organisations to hire, free of charge. If you are interested in hiring the marquee for your community event please contact my office on 3205 9977 or email peter.dutton.mp@aph.gov.au
