In brief
MEMBERS of the Armidale NBN Users Group have voiced their concern about the take-up rate of the National Broadband Network.
The group said it was worried that many homes and businesses would be left in the dark if they did not take NBN Co’s message seriously and sign up before the 30 May deadline.
“There are a lot of people listening to the wrong information about the NBN and we want them to know that NBN Co. is planning on disconnecting the copper network in parts of Armidale,” member Rob Webster said.
For more information about the cut-off, go to www.nbnco.com.au
Former priest
ALLEGED victims of a former Catholic priest charged with sex offences may have to give evidence in court.
The 60-year-old former priest, who can’t be named due to legal reasons, is facing 133 child sex offences and one firearm-related charge.
He has yet to enter a plea to any of the charges.
Defence barrister Hament Dhanji signalled victims, their family members and police could take the stand if the defence had its way.
Magistrate Karen Stafford will decide on the application to hear from victims at a hearing in June, but if it does not proceed the former priest could be ordered to stand trial if he fights the charges.
Up for awards
ARMIDALE Ex-Services Club and the Armidale City Bowling Club have been named as finalists in the 2014 Clubs and Community Awards.
Servies was nominated for its contributions to Tour de Rocks in the health category, while the Bowlo’s commitment to local Aboriginal students by partnering with Clontarf saw it nominated for the Youth and Education Award.
The Bundarra Sports and Recreation Club was also nominated for the Heart of the Community Award.
