The share market has been falling considerably in high-profit global market sectors for some time. It’s a new law of economics: the better off we are, the less we have to share. Stocks in greed are in danger of rising sharply First-time investors attracted by short-term high returns on selfishness should be thinking more about long-term equity. We have a callous Government which has an interest in keeping us selfish and resentful of each other. There’s an all-ordinary outlook unless we start sharing futures with each other. On the brighter side, a growing number of canny local shareholders are venturing into the market with highly profitable returns. Here’s a snapshot of just a few hotspots in the local share market.

The Clarence Environment Centre continues to hold firm with a small group of volunteers who share their time and energy to keep the centre open each day, run the shop, look after IT, manage the budget, help the community with information, write submissions and support campaigns. Shareholders will be pleased to know that at our Annual General Meeting on 21 August the following people were elected:

As well as responding to environmental issues as best we can, the Centre provides a place for people to share ideas and connect with like-minded people. It helps friendships and networks Ito grow. It’s an important part of the valley’s social capital. But we need more people to make it happen. Without volunteers the CEC couldn’t exist. Would you like to become one of this valued group? Are you interested in environmental and social justice issues? Spending half a day a week at the Centre could be a good investment. Contact us on 66 43 1863 if you’d like to get involved. Your newsletter articles are always welcome. Thankyou Simon, Janet, Mark, Jim, Annie, Dave and Gary for your contributions this time.

Other exciting share opportunities to invest in:

South Grafton Community Bank gives its customers a chance to share their wealth with the third world by providing ethical investment accounts. All or half of your interest can go straight to Community Aid Abroad.

Clarence Valley Volunteers helps people to share their time and energy with the local community. Volunteer work in Australia represents millions of dollars worth of labour each year. It’s worth more than money: working without pay for a cause you support is a powerful act of faith in humanity and community. It’s when the bottom line of $ falls on its face.

Many, many other local people and groups share their time, energy and hearts out of sheer goodness. You know who you are! Thankyou!