From your Fededral Member for Dickson
PETER DUTTON
When I wrote the first column for 2011 this time last year it was a very distressing time for us all with the devastating floods that hit the region. It has been a difficult year for those immediately affected while they worked through insurance issues and rebuilt their homes and businesses and for some this is still ongoing. 

Throughout this time I have been constantly impressed by the community support and volunteer spirit in response to these events. It has been amazing to not only watch the immediate hands on efforts of locals as the clean up began but the drive and generosity of people motivated to coordinate fund raising events and the collection and delivery of goods.   I always feel proud to be Australian and it is a privilege to represent the people of Dickson and especially at times like that.  I commend those who have risen above adversity and got back on their feet and those who were there to help them along the way.
We have many wonderful people in our community some of whom I have the honour of recognising with their family and friends every Australia Day through my Dickson Community Awards.   At the time of writing this column the announcement of this year’s recipients was not official but I look forward to sharing this with you in the March column.
State Election
With the Queensland State Election to be on 24 March, I encourage anyone who has changed address or become eligible to vote to ensure they enrol to vote or update your contact details as soon as possible.  You can download an application form from www.aec.gov.au/enrol/form.htm or contact my office on 3205 9977.
2012 Year of the Farmer
Australian Year of the Farmer is a celebration of the vital role farmers' play in feeding, clothing and sheltering us all. Farmers are not only important to the survival of our own population but are a major contributor to our economy and exports. The year aims to promote the importance of Agribusiness with a dedicated website to not only inform  Australians about the various impacts it has on our daily lives but  also advertise competitions, events, savings and educational material throughout the year. Go to http://www.yearofthefarmer.com.au/ to sign up for newsletters and like them on facebook for updates or call 1800 642 724 for further information.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
Each year in February Ovarian Cancer Australia runs a National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month campaign to highlight the symptoms of ovarian cancer and to raise funds for their programs. Teal is the international colour for ovarian cancer. On Teal Ribbon Day, the last Wednesday in February, Australians are invited to purchase and wear a Teal Ribbon from Ovarian Cancer Australia, Chemmart Pharmacy, Spotlight, or Napoleon Perdis concept store to show support for raising awareness of ovarian cancer.
During February invite your workmates, friends, or family members to an Afternoon Teal to raise funds for support programs for women touched by ovarian cancer and their families and at the same time provide vital information about the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer. To register your event, purchase your Teal Ribbon or get more information go to www.ovariancancer.net.au .  For information about support services call 1300 660 334.
World’s Greatest Shave 15-17 March
Once again this year tens of thousands of Queenslanders are expected to shave or colour their hair to raise funds for the Leukaemia Foundation and the excellent work they do in our community.  Funds raised not only go towards the day to day practical and emotional support of patients and families living with leukaemias, lymphomas, myeloma and related blood disorders but also towards medical research projects seeking better treatments and cures.  Go to http://www.worldsgreatestshave.com/  or call 1800 500 088 for more information on participating or donating.
Dickson Schools
I wish teachers, students and staff a successful academic year in 2012 and hope that the start of school for parents of first time students has not been too traumatic. I look forward to visiting students to talk about my role as a Federal Member of Parliament and remind parents and citizen groups that my Bikes for Schools program for Primary Schools and iPods for High Schools program will continue this year.