Katoomba Leura Online

Film premiere and eyewitness report from the NT intervention

A new short film about the controversial “NT intervention” – launched by John Howard’s government and extended by Rudd/Gillard Labor government – will premiere on Saturday, July 24, 2.30pm, at the Family Hotel bistro, 15 Parke Street, Katoomba.

The film reveals how the intervention has taken back rights won by the Indigenous people over the past 50 years. The NT’s Alyawarr people are fighting back. The Ampilatwatja community has established a protest camp. The film chronicles this important struggle and the solidarity it is receiving from trade unions and other activists.

Also attending will be Will Williams and Jess Moore, just returned from the NT, who will report on the NT Indigenous rights convergence in Alice Springs and the protest camp.

Phone Terry on 4787 7859 for further information.  Organised by Green Left Weekly and the Blue Mountains Socialist Alliance

Reported today is news that asbestos remediation work was carried out at North Katoomba primary by an incorrectly licensed contractor. It is claimed that demolition work began on a covered walkway that had previously been identified as containing asbestos. Proper handling measures were not initially taken to deal with the possibility of asbestos contamination.

Inhalation of asbestos fibres can potentially cause asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma, fatal diseases.  NSW Health publishes a fact sheet on asbestos risks that notes prolonged exposure is typical of those who eventually contract the diseases, which can take decades to appear following the exposure.

The incident at North Katoomba saw the demolition work halted when the risk became known, but local parents are concerned they were not notified until 5 weeks after the incident.

Following the incident, work to remove the material was conducted outside school hours. Concerned parents have been advised to consult their doctor should they be worried about medical issues.

Brookfield Partnership has released a brochure advertising shops for lease in the yet to be completed Woolworths development on Leura Mall at the old Colless site. It includes and artists impression and plan view for those of us having difficulty envisioning just what is in store.