I grew up in Allendale, an eight- hotel town once, that along with others in the Golden Triangle saw the influx of population produce vast volumes of gold to enhance the government's coffers thus giving prosperity to big cities, and power.

Alas, they mostly went back to the big cities, their descendants now disappearing behind remotely controlled car entrances, some covered in graffiti, some not knowing their neighbours, some not thinking of where their food comes from, nor caring.

After removing or downgrading public buildings railways etc., some city politician wants to exterminate history to oblivion.

It is like taking the headstone off Grandpa's grave after we have blown his inheritance.

After driving in Melbourne, I know what needs removal from the map.

COLIN HOLMES

Ballarat