The saying “people support what they help create” has long been demonstrated and is a feature of the region’s lifestyle. This reflective character creates a feeling of mutual respect, trust and support that is the cultural attraction of rural life. 

Integral with the formation of a merged council is the incentive packages from state government aimed at improving, renewing or creating much-needed infrastructure. These improvements have been embraced and we have seen seemingly ambitious projects realised.

This can only be achieved by committed co-operation between all sectors involved. All residents in Hilltops gain by a healthy, visionary, and unconditional co-operation.

If one player demands dominance it challenges the rural character, as appears to be the case with a proposed regional library development for Young.

It is wonderful to see the government acknowledge the need for a modern library and cultural precinct in the region, but another dimension is introduced if existing heritage, environmental and cultural characteristics are threatened. It is hard to ignore a couple of thousand warning signs in the form of names on a petition before we take a leap into visionary, uncharted territory. No one can deny there is need for a new library, for a cultural centre, for recognised all-age learning facilities and continuing community engagement. It is concerning when current indicators are ignoring community input.

The chasm needs to be crossed by building a bridge on a firm foundation built by genuine community input. Only upon mutual respect and strategic thinking can we build for future generations.

JOHN WALKER