It needs to be as a matter of urgency to accommodate the large number of trucks, local traffic and pedestrians that need to walk on the pavement. Approximately a one kilometre section of road has been let to deteriorate to a very poor and dangerous condition. It needs to be urgently brought up to a flood free level (due to having to be closed during recent floods, yet again) providing 24 hour flood free access befitting a major entry point into Bomaderry, to bypass the McDonalds roundabout which gets rather congested at peak traffic times.

I am sure that between Shoalhaven City Council and local State Member, Gareth Ward, funds could be acquired hopefully, rather quickly to enable this work to be actioned prior to the completion of the Princes Highway upgrade. While they are at it, a separated footpath / cycle way alongside this section of road, as residents from Emerald Drive and Halstead Place take their lives into their own hands when walking along this section of road.....even take it up to the new Pestells Lane bridge, as otherwise the footpaths on this bridge will be nothing more than white elephants.

As many Aussies face the prospect of spending more time at home due to COVID-19, we know it can be tempting to reach for alcohol.

In fact, new research from Dry July Foundation has revealed that the number of Australians who said they are drinking more in the average week has doubled in the last 12 months, indicating that a difficult year did affect our drinking habits. However, the research also found that 86 per cent of Australians believe they'd benefit from less alcohol in their lives and 67 per cent of Aussies admit to being 'sober curious'. If you've been thinking about taking a break from the booze, Dry July is the perfect opportunity to kick-start a healthier lifestyle.

The Dry July campaign is run by the Dry July Foundation to support cancer charities, including Cancer Council. By going dry and fundraising on behalf of Cancer Council, you'll help us continue to provide our vital 13 11 20 Cancer Information and Support Line for all Australians affected by cancer. There's also a host of health benefits to quitting drinking for a month.

As I digest the news that our local newsagent was robbed in broad daylight back in April I can't help feeling very sorry once again for our small business owners who are struggling during the global pandemic.

No we are not under lockdown like Sydney LGAs but the reduced tourist numbers must surely be having an impact on local businesses. Then along comes some idiot that wants to rob them. This happened not so long ago to our bakery in town too. If businesses haven't had enough, I have, it's about time we had CCTV installed throughout town to identify these people and their vehicles to enable a swift arrest. It's only a matter of time before someone is hurt physically in addition to the psychological trauma.

Due to a production error a headline in last Wednesday's paper (page 5 - Councillor support for green bins) indicated that Serena Copley was a Shoalhaven City Councillor. It should have read Candidate support for green bins - Ms Copley is a candidate at the upcoming elections.