With the current conflicts across the world, it’s a constant reminder of the bravery of those who continue to fight for us, for their country. It’s a reminder of the sacrifice their families make to ensure we can live in a safe and free world.

The NSW Government is ensuring this history is protected with preservation of war memorials right across the state through the Community War Memorials Fund (CWMF).

The CWMF is designed to protect and repair local war memorials that preserve the Anzac legacy and it ensures communities have the opportunity to protect and conserve local war memorials.

Funding applications can be made by veterans groups, community organisations and councils until Anzac Day and I sincerely encourage all communities who require funds for restoration to apply.

For further information please contact Veterans' Affairs on 9228 4710, visit: veterans.nsw.gov.au/heritage/community-war-memorials-fund/ or by email VeteranGrants@dpc.nsw.gov.au

NSW Health is urging pregnant women, the elderly and other high-risk groups to take advantage of a free flu vaccination – now available from GPs ahead of the winter flu season.

A vaccine protecting against the four likely circulating influenza strains is free for people eligible under the National Immunisation Program. This includes those who are pregnant, over 65 years of age, have severe asthma, diabetes and heart conditions, as well as Aboriginal people aged from six months up to five years and 15 years of age and over. The flu vaccination is very safe for expectant mothers and their babies, providing protection in the infant’s early months with a reduced risk of contracting influenza.

For more information speak to your GP or visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Pages/seasonal_flu_vaccination

The holidays are often a great time to get odd jobs done around the house. However it’s also important to perform some do-it-yourself (DIY) safety checks before undertaking any home improvement projects.

Be aware of the location of service lines and electrical wiring within your work space.

Don’t cut, drill or hammer into walls, floors or ceilings before thoroughly checking for electrical wires. If you are using power tools, check that the cords and connections are free of wear and tear and don’t use them in wet areas.

If you need to use extension leads, keep these to a minimum, and make sure not to overload power boards.

There were seven deaths recorded in NSW in 2015-16 involving customers’ installations, appliances or equipment, so the main priority for any DIY job should be safety first. For more information on electrical safety, visit essentialenergy.com.au/safety or call Essential Energy on 13 23 91.

Many families will make the journey home from holidays this week. Be safe, stick to the speed limit and ensure you take regular breaks. Better to arrive a little late than not at all.