It has become a ritual for my partner and I to carry bags to collect the waste that is thoughtlessly thrown from vehicles entering and leaving the village.

During brief holiday visits in recent weeks we have twice set off for a constitutional to the Princes Highway and back - on Christmas Eve and January 10.

The aggregate collect was 35 beer and soft drink cans and bottles, innumerable coffee cups and packaging from every well known fast food outlet. And then some.

Each time we set out on a walk we earnestly hope we won't require the bags. But we always do.

I use your newspaper to heap praise upon our very seldom mentioned heros, the paramedics.

I was in a tricky situation with a tick inside my ear, which was affecting my eyesight, my left eye was closing and the pain and headaches were not very enjoyable.

These boys came and without any fooling about removed the tick, which I am told could have killed me. No doubt these people perform these types of medical marvels without any form of recognition.They deserve better.

The danger of ticks should also be publicised. My tick was of the kind thought only to be found on animals. The kangaroos are a good target for them and no longer fear them and in my case people should be warned. To see kids patting and even cuddling these animals is food for thought. A few more signs warning people of the danger would help prevent the pain these ticks cause.

The Bureau of Meteorology’s annual report showed Australia posted its third warmest year on record in 2017, with NSW enduring its hottest year since records began.

NSW is now experiencing climate disruption with more heatwaves, bushfires and rising sea levels on the way.

There is clear evidence that changes in our climate are happening more quickly than previously thought and there is increased urgency for climate action.

The recent heatwave is what our future feels like if we don't stop burning coal and move rapidly to 100 per cent renewable energy. 

We’ve seen this State Government move rapidly and decisively when it’s acting in its own interest to build a new motorway or privatise yet another state asset. Now we need the same sense of urgency and purpose to restore a safe climate.

It’s hot and getting hotter. While we struggle to cope, let’s not forget our companion animals.

PETA receives reports yearly about animals who suffer horrifying deaths during the summer months. Never leave an animal in a parked car, even for short periods with the windows slightly open. On even a 30-degree day, the temperature inside of a car parked in the sun can reach 54 degrees in just minutes.

Dogs need their exercise, but in summer, it's best to do that early in the morning. Try to walk on grass or in the shade. You have shoes; they do not. Make sure they don't pick up any dropped food – it spoils fast in hot weather. Avoid exercising in the heat of the day – some dogs will keep running until they go into heatstroke. Dogs can also get sunburnt, particularly if they are pale in colour or like to bake their tummies. You can use sunscreen, but not the ones with zinc or salicylates as they can be toxic if licked.