Port Villa is the tropical capital of Vanuatu with amphitheatre hills overlooking a sprawling harbour. On a recent visit I got an insight into the lives of our Pacific friends.

Today I spoke with the NSW Teachers Federation’s Michelle Rosicki about the importance of the Gonski reforms and better resources for our nation’s schools.

There is little doubt we are blessed by the environment in which we live. The glistening coast line and close proximity to Sydney city are the geographic factors that define Kingsford Smith. But it is the people that really make the southeast such a wonderful place to live.

Yesterday’s news of the loss of 5000 Qantas jobs has sent a shockwave through the entire country and Kingsford Smith.

With just days before the 28 Feburary cut-off, I am urging young athletes and teams in Kingsford Smith to apply for funding support to help them realise their sporting dreams and compete in a championship before it's too late.

I'm urging locals to be vigilant following reports of a vicious telephone scam targeting the community’s elderly and vulnerable.