This decision will only cause unnecessary division within Shire. Let me remind the councillors that they were elected to represent all people in the shire.
Sanger Street is an absolute disgrace with its derelict and falling down buildings and empty shops.
The caravan park which used to be booked out at every holiday period has been reduced to an empty paddock.
You must drive across the bridge to Wahgunyah and Rutherglen to see housing developments everywhere, in Corowa next to nothing.
The road to our biggest employer is about to become a crumbling mess.
These are just some of the many things that they should be concentrating on, not some thought bubble that somebody has dreamt up.
We were all horrified when terrorists dressed in black invaded our main street, this decision if it goes ahead will play right into their hands.
I implore the councillors to file this stupid decision in the recycling bin where it belongs and get on with doing what they were elected to do.
I offer them this advice to rescind the motion or there will be five of them voted out of a job next election.
John Ross
Corowa
We live on their land
I write to register my dismay and disappointment of the proposed Federation Council decision “to stop flying the Indigenous Flag in the Chambers and on Flagpoles as well as disbanding the practice of Welcome to Country. The rationale given was “to promote civic neutrality”.
I believe this proposal is based on ignorance and arrogance of the importance of our Australian heritage.
The Indigenous people being the First People of this nation, who were invaded by our colonial ancestors.
We need to continue to acknowledge our First Nation ancestors and recognise we are very privileged to live on their lands.
For a local community Council to propose such a negative proposal conveys a message of ignorance and disregard for our community.
We as a community need to be more inclusive and demonstrate respect, care and understanding of our fellow members past and present and not promote an environment of disrespect.
I hope that the Federation Council will reconsider this negative decision and continue to acknowledge our cultural heritage.
Marianne Lackner
Corowa
One nation, one flag
It is divisive to have more than one flag representing our country.
Yes, some people think the aboriginal flag should fly next to the Australian flag, but the vast majority see it as a left-wing political hoax designed to undermine the cultural fabric of our society.
I am very relieved the other two flags have been removed.
Keith Holland
Corowa
Yindyamarra
Well done to Corowa Pre-School for the recent adoption of their Reconciliation Action Plan.
These plans require considerable time, respect, and understanding to develop, reflecting a genuine commitment to reconciliation within the community.
My children were fortunate to have the opportunity to learn about Wiradjuri culture from a respected Wiradjuri man while at primary school.
This experience provided them with a valuable insight into the traditions and values that are central to Wiradjuri life.
The concept of Yindyamarra was at the heart of this learning.
Yindyamarra is a term deeply connected to Wiradjuri culture, encompassing a way of life based on respect, moving thoughtfully, giving honour, and taking responsibility for both Country and community.
These principles are essential for fostering respect and understanding within a healthy society.
Many community members are very concerned by the decision made at the November council meeting.
It is my hope that our elected leaders will endorse the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander protocols, supporting our community’s ongoing journey towards reconciliation.
While we cannot change the past, we hold the power to shape a better future through continued respect, communication, understanding and action.
Sally Hughes
Corowa
Thank you Free Press
Congratulations to the Free Press staff for their success at the recent Country Press NSW Inc – 2025 Awards of Excellence.
Megan Dunn – Best News Photo (highly commended), Special Publication – Corowa Free Press (commended), Best News Story - Emma Prior (winner) also (commended), Best Sports Story - Jared Loughnan (highly commended), Journalist of the Year – Christine McKee (winner). Excellent results.
Members of the Country Women’s Association of NSW, Oaklands branch, would also like to thank the staff for their continued support of our local community in bringing the news to residents and visitors alike.
We appreciate so much ‘making the news’. Lots of positive feedback from readers is very welcome, making us feel our efforts to carry out our aims, is actually achieving results.
Without The Free Press we would have no forum for our voices. Thank you and well done.
Heather Kerr, secretary
Oaklands CWA