Having attended local schools, I know exactly how you are feeling but the good news is that this important chapter of your life’s journey will soon come to a close. Whilst the HSC is important – the result won’t define you.

Use this time to work hard and do your very best. No one will ask any more of you than that.

Take the time to thank your teachers, parents and supporters who have helped you get to this point. They have shared this path with you and will be wanting you to give these exams your very best.

If you decide to do further study, I can personally attest to the outstanding education you will receive at the University of Wollongong.

We also have first-class TAFE and vocational educational providers that are ready and willing to provide you with an exciting skill and trade. Whatever your path, I wish you a very bright and promising future.

Gareth Ward MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Education

Been watching the news, yet another woman as been murdered. Think that's seven in seven days, enough is enough I say.

Just when are the public gonna be safe from these demented males who keep walking our streets free as a bird.

All due to silly magistrate's and sillier judges

Just get them off the bench once and for all we would all feel safer and protected if these silly magistrates put them in bloody jail.

But because they are a load of do-gooders we all have to suffer. I say grow a pair.

Lawrence Wren, Fairy Meadow

In response to the letter by Matty Ryan ‘Backbenchers Watching’ (Illawarra Mercury, Tuesday October 9, 2018),  Mr Ryan raises some important issues regarding residential aged care.

However, while wages and penalty rates are important lets not distract from the main issue of providing genuine and dignified care for the elderly.

This is personal for me, as my father died in a local public aged care home in late 1970s.

The level of care he received ranged from cold baths/showers and poorly prepared food while his new pajamas were on the other residence.

When my mother became sick and frail, I gave up my job to be the carer because of what happened to my father.

Residential care for the elderly is changing because an increasing number of people in this situation are receiving home care which has its advantages.

The person receiving care is in their own home and familiar surroundings.

Being in your own home (even when sick or frail) gives a psychological and emotional positive boost to the person.

I oppose euthanasia for the elderly and the callus act of withdrawing food and drink from a frail or terminally ill person.

These people whether elderly, frail and/or terminally ill deserve and require care in accord with the dignity of the human person regardless of race, colour or culture.

Adrian Devlin, Fairy Meadow