The Brisbane to Longreach Spirit of the Outback train, has four sleeping cars, plus dining and lounge cars.

I have suggested that just one of those sleeping cars, be used on the Inlander train, instead.

I have been ignored, as have others including the Member for Mount Isa, Rob Katter.

I am aware that many people will not travel on the Inlander train until a sleeping car is provided. 

Just one of the tourism opportunities that would exist if a sleeping car is added to the train, is a trip from Brisbane to Alice Spring via Townsville and Mount Isa.

That leaves Brisbane on a Friday, arriving in Townsville Saturday morning and departing at 12.40pm for Mount Isa, arriving there at 9.35am Sunday. 

A  bus leaves Mt Isa every Monday at 7am for Alice Springs.

I am sure that Queensland Rail could promote that fine tour, if the sleeping car is provided to Mt Isa.

Over 1000 people in Mount Isa signed a petition requesting the provision of a sleeping car, only to be ignored by the Palaszczuk Government.

Once the very popular Brisbane to Rockhampton 'Tilt' train is rebuilt, there will be a number of stainless steel cars which will be available for rebuilding and use on the Inlander train. 

Queensland Rail could provide a Rail Bed car, as is the case on the Brisbane to Cairns Spirit of Queensland, train.

John Coyle,

Bumdamba

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 I would like to acknowledge the extraordinary nurses and staff at the Mount Isa Base Hospital.  

I, unfortunately, had reason to be admitted to the hospital in a very real life threatening illness.

The nurses were beyond reproach with their care of myself.  

Nothing was too much trouble and their understanding and compassion were commendable.

Having been situated in three different units and rooms, I did have quite a few nurses.  

These uncomplaining nurses, regularly put up some disgusting behaviour and language from patients and their family members.

All the while comporting themselves professionally, how I do not know.

Because a lesser person would have been tempted to give them back the behaviour they received in turn.

These nurses are there for your care and well being.

The same is true for the doctors, who I also witnessed being abused verbally.  

They should be treated with the respect they so rightfully deserve.  

One day you might need a caring and compassionate person who has your care in their hands.

Not only physical care but mental as well, I had some very low moments and they helped me through it, there was nothing that was too much trouble.  

These professional people, may be the ones who can save your life and your mental coping in times of difficulty.

Thank you to all my nurses and doctors for your wonderful care of myself.

You definitely know who you are, as I thanked you many times but you deserve so much more.

Kay Rushton 

Alice Springs