When is constantly criticising government a good thing?
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Nearly always if you have valid points.
Some in the community, however, think former mayor Mathew Dickerson is making noise to keep his profile high so he can run for council next year, thus keeping his name widely recognised by the "quiet Dubboins".
Why would he want to do this, you ask?
Some say it is his ultimate aim to have another tilt at state parliament and having a high profile and a name that is easily recognised would be an excellent way to pick up those pesky few votes he missed out on last time.
He says that's nonsense.
Mr Dickerson says the council is not listening to residents and he is.
Council would say that too is nonsense.
Last week we reported on a resident who claimed she had ironclad proof from a hose manufacturer that soaker hoses are less efficient than micro-spray watering systems.
Many in the community agree.
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Days later, the council indicated it might change its mind on what methods you can use to water gardens during level four water restrictions.
Another ratepayer had a happy outcome after we reported on her quest for a veterans discount she was entitled to receive.
The Dubbo Regional Council apologised to the woman who was denied a veterans discount on her rates bill despite holding a valid gold card.
Deputy mayor Stephen Lawrence said as soon as he was made aware of the issue it was "sorted out".
Some would say these are examples of listening with the intent to understand.
Kids at a childcare centre in Dubbo are having fun scraping and then rinsing their plates in a bucket of water before putting them into a dishwasher.
We reported on the positive side of saving water at Community Kids Dubbo in Goode Street.
"We don't want to be alarmist," said centre manager Katie Greenaway.
"So we try to turn our water-wise ways into fun."
Now that is listening and acting on a serious issue.
Maybe adults can learn a thing or two from children?
Perhaps more people should listen with the intent to understand rather than with the intent to reply.
WHAT DO YOU THINK? HAVE YOUR SAY