We want to say we were amazed and thrilled with the wonderful hospitality and help we received on the day we visited.

From the friendly and knowledgeable bus driver and assistant who collected us from the ship to all the helpers and volunteers dotted around down to help us in every way.

We could not believe the friendly people that were just so happy to help us with directions, drinks, sunscreen etc. 

My husband and I are from Perth and we would love to see a similar courtesy extended at Fremantle to cruise-goers, as your council have set a fantastic example.

We also caught the circle bus to the beautiful botanic gardens and also had the same fabulous courtesies extended there.

Incidentally the gardens were just wonderful. May I be bold and make a suggestion that having a cafe/tea room there would have made the gardens even more appealing to linger in and enjoy. 

Congratulations to everyone involved and again, thank you all so much.

Shelly and James Doogue, Leeming WA

Throughout March, communities around the world are dedicated to raising awareness of epilepsy, culminating in Purple Day on March 26 (International Epilepsy Awareness Day).

During this time, people wear purple and hold events to raise funds and awareness of the condition that will affect more than 800,000 Australians in their lifetime, and 50 million people worldwide. 

Sadly, due to social stigma and misconceptions, many people with epilepsy do not disclose their condition and live in fear of being ‘found out’.

This Purple Day, Epilepsy Action Australia would like to encourage communities to shine a light on epilepsy by lighting up purple a local landmark and raising funds for community education services to better the lives of those affected.

Interventions by Epilepsy Action Australia can help increase understanding in our communities, such as epilepsy awareness sessions, seizure first-aid training, and the Online Academy, which offers several courses about epilepsy for parents, carers, schools and healthcare professionals.

I would encourage your community to support Purple Day during March by simply making a donation or getting involved (www.epilepsy.org.au). Please help shine a light on epilepsy this Purple Day and put your region on the map.

On behalf of all Australians living with epilepsy, thank you in advance to your readers for supporting Epilepsy Action Australia. Your support helps to reduce isolation and ensure people living with the condition are able to live the best life possible.

Carol Ireland, CEO Epilepsy Action Australia

I wish to address Mr Richard Cannan's letter published in the Illawarra Mercury on February 16, 2017.

While his letter does not specifically mention me, I am disappointed to learn from it he appears dissatisfied with, I assume, my previous representations on his behalf. Mr Cannan claims he has been waiting three years for answers to his letters to his local member.

Given that he resides in Warilla, I can only assume he is referring to me. Unfortunately, he has never expressed any dissatisfaction with my representation to date.

In the past Mr Cannan has contacted my office on a number of occasions about various matters and my records indicate those issues were always promptly addressed. My last communication with Mr Cannan was in March 2014 and I have had no further contact.  If there is a discrepancy, I am not aware of it, and I would be happy to undertake further investigation.

Anna Watson, MP