This has been going on for far too long and family and friends speak out about what causes these accidents but these young people don't listen and get all excited and jump behind the wheel of these fast cars, (any car is fast) and drive dangerously, putting themselves at risk and anyone else in close proximity.

I do believe the age should be increased so at least these young people are more mature and driver education should be increased and become mandatory, passing stringent tests before being allowed to jump behind the wheel and driving on the roads.

There are so many young people dying through car accidents it's become ridiculous and we all know the reasons so either stop the kids from driving and take the car off them or make it more difficult to get a license, so they don't get all excited and speed down the road to an early grave.

T Dunn, West Wollongong

I like the concept of a phoenix job being proposed again on the too long neglected and dilapidated Imperial Hotel, Clifton, as reported in this masthead (Illawarra Mercury, December 3, 2016).

However, I find fascinating the logistics of the planned 35 car parking spaces for the capacity 290 seated patrons. No mention of how the needs of 16 staff members will be met.

A maximum 11 patrons travelling on two motorbikes and seven bicycles (excluding tandems) leaves 279 others to be catered for. That then requires a minimum of eight occupants per car.

Targeting overcrowded vehicles and unseatbelted passengers, the police could have a booking field day in a locality of often high human activity with Sea Cliff Bridge walkers and viewers.

Mike Morphett, Thirroul

The Baird Government's announcement on Friday December 2 of awarding the contract for Sydney's new trains to China, is tantamount to economic treason.

This follows the rail carriage contract, also awarded to China, which cost the Illawarra 600 jobs, as well as the flow on benefits and development of skills for our youngsters. Mr Baird has a higher duty to our State, which he has completely ignored.

He seems utterly devoid of vision and future macro planning, which would deliver generational skills and economic benefits.   They are continually selling us out for a dubious bottom line, with no vision of the bigger picture. This Government has obviously learned nothing from the recent Orange by-election. 

Bob Young, Mount Keira

I enjoyed the Illawarra Mercury’s “Christmas All Wrapped Up” special insert  on December 2.  Even got a few ideas for presents. May I add a few classics omitted from your column on the origins of Christmas symbols.  You had Santa, the tree, cards, holly and pudding. Can I add the star, which guided wise men to worship Jesus as a King though still a baby.  They also gave us the gift giving tradition with their gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Then the manger, which symbolises Christ’s humility and sympathy for those in limited circumstances.  And finally the angel, announcing good news of great joy for all people, in the birth of a Saviour who is Christ the Lord.

Sadly, much as I might wish it, no room for the little drummer boy. But with these additional symbols, we come closer to the "true meaning of Christmas" your column was searching for.

Rev Sandy Grant, St Michael’s Cathedral Wollongong