There is currently a resurgence of the measles virus in our communities. A disease we almost eradicated several years ago. Why the resurgence? Because part of our community think they are above our health laws, which call for vaccination of all but certain at-risk citizens.

So because of the negligence of a small minority of people, a once-defeated disease is rife again and lives are in danger in spite of government legislation.

At the present time we in the Central West are experiencing the now annual infestation of grey-headed flying foxes in our parks, orchards and vineyards.

Once again we are being told by the animal activists don't worry about the destruction of crops or lost income. 'These animals are necessary to pollinate our forests. These animals are probably more important ecologically than humans. Don't worry about the Hendra virus they carry - there is a vaccine.'

Well, if they are only here for the pollination of our forests, why don't they roost out in the forests where the trees that depend on them are? Why roost in our parks and in the trees in our streets? Because they are not here to pollinate - they are here for the fruit harvest and an easy meal.

VIDEO: The bats in full voice ...

Yes, it's true, there is a Hendra vaccine but I'm concerned because, following the lead of other anti-vaxers, some horse owners don't vaccinate their animals. They create a vehicle for the spread of disease.

Hendra can then pass from an infected horse to humans. Do we really want an outbreak of this infectious disease?

Flying foxes also carry lyssavirus, a close relative of rabies. There is no known cure for this disease. Each year several people are either scratched or bitten by these wild animals. So far there have been no reported cases of lyssavirus, but surely it's only a matter of time before some child is infected.

Why is nothing done about this annual pest? Because no member of government has the intestinal fortitude to stand up to the activists running the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

If you want something concrete done there is no better time than now to lean on your Federal member for action. Not for a vague, 'I'll take that on board' - action, and now, while they are desperate for your vote.

Finally, I am not advocating the wholesale slaughter of these animals. I'm simply asking for action to move them out of our inhabited cities and back into the bush where they belong. There is still plenty of forest out there for them to live in.