Also consistent is why it rates so highly: the Gorge's relatively unspoiled and natural environment. Yes, there has been some relatively low-key development in the Gorge since European settlement, so to describe it as 'pristine' isn't exactly true either.

But times change, and so do perceptions and values, and it's pretty clear from speaking with some of those Gorge visitors, that it's these all-too-rare unspoiled and natural features that are what people really appreciate and enjoy.

They're blown away that we have such a stunning and accessible natural public space that combines park, garden, wilderness, swimming area, Indigenous heritage, and playground, all together in the middle of a city. People value the fact the Gorge doesn't resemble an overcrowded theme park, and that it's not been over-developed.

We are incredibly fortunate to have such a unique point of difference, and it would be unwise to ignore it.

Not all development is good - and the idea of multiple gondolas coming from every which way, that must inevitably intrude into the peace, privacy and serenity of the Gorge experience not only risks causing unnecessary social division, it also risks coming at an enormous economic cost for our community if all those tourists that currently come to experience that unique natural experience choose to bypass Launceston, and go elsewhere.

Anne Layton-Bennett, Swan Bay.

BY changing lifestyle Dr Dean Ornish was the first to prove the reversal of heart disease. In his book Love and Intimacy about the healing power of love, Dr Ornish said the following: "I am not aware of any factor in medicine - not diet, not smoking, not exercise, not stress, not genetics, not drugs, not surgery that has as great an impact on our quality of life, incidence of illness and premature death from all causes".

From my own experiences nor am I.

Enid Denman, Beauty Point.

A TREATY is an agreement between two nations. Without treaty, we are still just occupiers of land stolen from First Nation people, by means of invasion.

To make out presence here legitimate, we need to make that agreement.

Elsa de Ruyter, East Devonport.

THE ghosts of Hitler and Stalin are alive and well in China. It is frightening that Uyghurs are being systematically persecuted in a manner which is destroying their culture and religion.

It seems that Uyghurs are being used as forced labour in Xinjiang factories which puts a whole new complexion on the 'Made in China' brands sold in Australia.

It is imperative that our government and business sector call out the Uyghurs' predicament forcefully and demand an end to this cultural genocide. In the meantime, Australians are invited to seek out merchandise which is made in a country that respects the dignity, welfare and human rights of its citizens - including ethnic minorities.

Ed Sianski, West Moonah.