May 6, 2018: Your say on quit program, economics, and a thankyou

I’m just sorry I don’t live in the Glamorgan Spring Bay Area.

I’m desperately trying to quit, resorted to the cheapest unheard of brand available, and have reduced to around 12 a day, but just can’t stop.

This is an excellent incentive. Come on Launceston pharmacies, help us quit.

F. O’Sullivan, Riverside.

RICHARD Flanagan (The Examiner, April 23) points out the need to reconcile with our history involving the indigenous people of Australia.

He also points out that the marriage equality debate shows “we are people who care, who feel, and who think”.

However the thing that is missing is that we as Australians need to stay in touch with ourselves as an animal species.

Because we live in cities, dress in suits, use the latest technology, and work mostly in jobs removed from the basics of life, we have lost touch with the fact that as humans we are basically an animal species.

Our sex drive is part of our animal nature, as are our needs to suckle, hold and stroke our young to give them basic physical security.

This is why natural childbirth, breast feeding and cuddling are so important to our babies.

This is also why genetically modified foods, technological implants and climate change will damage us as a species.

We will only understand the true nature of our sexuality within the framework of our animal biology. One example is the role of smell in the attraction between males and females.

Depending on what male scent a female chooses, it can mean protection against a greater or lesser number of diseases.

It’s great to see the emphasis on sport in Australian culture, but as well as physical games and toned bodies we need to be in touch with the animal biology of our bodies.

In this way we can be fully rounded as human beings.

Theo Bakker, Norwood.

Live export is a disgrace.

I am sick and tired and heartbroken at seeing yet more scenes of horrific cruelty meted out to gentle animals.

The industry has shown time and time again that it can't fix the many problems involved in transporting animals across long distances - it merely sends off more sheep and cattle to die horrific deaths while claiming to be horrified by what they've seen.

And what awaits them at their destination is even worse. It's all about money and greed.

Well, it's time politicians listened to the people, developed a backbone and ended this disgraceful so-called industry.

The time to act is now. I will vote for the party that promises to end this appalling trade and I urge others to do so.

Paul Murphy, South Launceston.

THE legislation around the wearing of patches or colours that is being pushed forward will only give more power to the government and police.  

Tasmania is the best controlled state concerning outlaw bike gangs, and they are only pushing it because of the new clubhouse in Devonport.  

Most bikers know what its like to be targeted because that's what happens when you ride a bike, you are outside the mainstream of society and they think you are not normal.   

The proposed legislation does not even mention motorcycle patches, but the intent is for anyone in a club or riding a bike.   

What about burqas or clothing such as sporting clubs they don't like in the future?

Anthony Galvin, Launceston.

I WOULD like to thank the two ladies who helped me out when I was taken ill at Beaconsfield.

I would also like to thank Borys, who helped me to the doctor.

I also need to thank the Manions’ bus drivers who helped me when I was having difficulty in getting on the bus.

Angela Johnson, Beauty Point.

IN RESPONSE to M. Barter (The Examiner, May 1) who chose to unfairly head his/her comment “Bad Drivers”.  

A quick check of the Tasmanian road rules will clarify the matter for you. 

You are only required to stay in the left lane (unless overtaking),  in a two lane same direction scenario, when the speed limit is 80km/h or above.

F. O’Sullivan, Riverside.

TRICKLE down economics is a lie. 

The top 1 per cent of income earners to take wealth from the majority.

There is nothing wrong with democratic socialism. To care for all and utilise everybody’s talents and hard work to build a better future.

I am unemployed and quite literatre but my father wasn't. He came to Australia in 1971 and applied for two jobs and was offerd both.

I am a Newstart recipient who creates jobs for Centrelink and job active providers.

Leon Cooper, St Leonards.

WE ARE witnessing a massive international victory for human rights, peace and prosperity in Korea all thanks to the strength, vision and political nous of one man - US President Donald Trump.

For God's sake give the man the credit he is due.

Jack Sonnemann, Lucaston.

WE ARE encouraged to eat more fruit and vegetables, yet why do we have to pay more for second and third grade fruit and vegetables? Why are the best exported and fetching top dollar.

K. Nunn, Newnham.