Territory Day is Overrated

I believe it is ludicrous that we can have the freedom to be able to buy fireworks and set them off on Territory Day. Check out this from the www.NTNews.com.au

"A TODDLER suffered serious burns after being hit with a firecracker during Territory Day celebrations last night.
St John Ambulance northern operations manager Michael McKay said the 15-month-old boy was strapped into a stroller when the firework hit him, causing serious burns to his arms, legs and back.
The incident happened in Katherine about 7.30pm.
The child was taken to Katherine Hospital where he remains in a stable condition this morning.
Northern Territory police responded to more than 100 fireworks-related calls last night.
Firefighters were also called out to 90 grass fires."

Stupid. Ridiculous that the NT Government allow it. Too many injures, and too many fires. We should have controlled FireWork displays on Territory Day at specific locations, and no fireworks should be sold to the public.

To all the Territorians who don't care for the safety of others, its time to stop thinking about your own joys and excitements in life and think about the welfare of others. Surely explosions aren't the only way you can enjoy life!

Have your say. Comment here.

Darwin Region Street Soccer Program - Big Issue

The Big Issue are bringing us The Darwin Region Street Soccer Program.

"The Street Soccer Program attracts males and females, of all ages and varying ability and fitness levels, getting together once a week, training and playing matches. The players usually come from backgrounds of mental illness, homelessness, refugee status, drug and alcohol dependency, physical disability, long-term unemployment or family breakdown."

The program begins Monday 13th July @ Chrisp Street Oval, Rapid Creek @ 5pm.

Some of the stated benefits of this Street Soccer Program are:

· Social inclusion and improved links with the community
· Re-connection with family
· Improved confidence and self-esteem
· Improved mental health
· Improved health and fitness
· A sense of belonging
· Discipline
· Addressing drug or alcohol dependency
· Seeking support or advice
· Improving their housing situation
· Finding employment

Thanks Big Issue for the work you are doing with marginalised people in our community!

Anti-Social Behaviour Forum - Palmerston

Held in the Palmerston Rec Centre tonight was an Anti-Social Behaviour Forum organised by Palmerston City Council. On the panel was Mayor Robert Macleod, Chief Minister Paul Hendersen, Opposition Leader Terry Mills and two high ranking Police Officers. The Palmerston public fired away questions and let off some steam about the anti-social behaviour in Palmerston. Some of the key discussion points were:
* 18 Families seem to be the Core offenders and instigators of anti-social behaviour in Palmerston.
* Should teenagers be allowed to roam the streets when on suspension, when really they are supposed to be punished to some degree for their behaviour?
* The Government should be doing more, etc, etc.

Terry Mills mentioned that we all have a part to play in the safety of a community. How many of those that attended tonight (especially those voicing very passionately about stopping anti-social behaviour), how many of these people are part of neighbourhood watch, or part of a non-for profit group that is working at changing this. Sure, many are, but we cannot just complain about Government's needing to do more, or police need to do more, etc, because we need to be part of the solution as well.

As the Mayor Robert Macleod said, 'Palmerston is a great place to live', and I agree. Lets work at finding solutions to those age old issues of violence, teenage boredom, bad parenting and shallow education.