MY SHOUT: TOUGHER APPROACH TO ASSAULTS (Weekly, January 28)
■ I don’t think this is a kneejerk reaction, from what I’ve read? Police are complaining that the burden of proof for a murder conviction is too hard to prove, so these cowards are getting light sentences when it’s reduced to manslaughter or aggravated assault. Some of the new laws were to create a new minimum and maximum term to allow prosecutors to seek a more reasonable penalty.
DAVE VIA ONLINE
COMMUTER DELAYS AFTER WOMAN INJURED IN FIGHT ON SUNBURY TRAIN LINE (Weekly online, January 30)
■ Moving away from V/Line trains for Sunbury has been a great idea … not! Sunbury residents were promised better services despite most residents wanting V-Line services retained. Concerns were also raised about less safety. Where are all those empty promises now Ms [Joanne] Duncan [Macedon MP]?
OFF THE RAILS VIA ONLINE
KEEP OUR SENIORS MOBILE
■ Older adults value the many benefits of walking. Research shows walking is their most common form of physical activity, whether it be for leisure, pleasure or getting around.
But there are many obstacles to walking that result in them missing out on improved health, well-being, independence, personal mobility and friendships.
A Victoria Walks survey of 1128 seniors found that inadequate footpaths, dogs not under control, poor street lighting, irresponsible drivers and the behaviour of some cyclists on shared paths are preventing thousands of seniors walking and enjoying physical activity. We need to create road environments that take care of them. With the ageing of the population, increasing walking levels is a social and economic imperative. We need more age-friendly neighbourhoods that are built for walking, with better access to shops, services and public transport within one kilometre of housing.
Victoria Walks calls on all levels of government to work together and get serious about supporting seniors to stay active, healthy and connected to their community. We urge them to follow the recommendations of the ‘Senior Victorians and walking: obstacles and opportunities’ report (victoriawalks.org.au/seniors).
DR BEN ROSSITER
EXECUTIVE OFFICER, VICTORIA WALKS, MELBOURNE
