Crystalline Methamphetamine, more commonly known as “ice”, has finally become a topic in the national conversation. The Federal Government has recently launched an advertising campaign to raise awareness of the epidemic that is becoming a significant problem for the nation, especially regional areas. On May 14, a meeting on the subject in Gundagai attracted a crowd of over 600 people, and in Young, a roundtable discussion between Councillors, interest groups and service providers has precipitated a community meeting in Young on the subject on June 5. The problem is not just restricted to larger regional centres. Harden-Murrumburrah is not immune. In fact, anecdotal evidence suggests that some ice users from Young are travelling to Harden to get supplies of the drug. Ice is a considerable issue in regional areas. Where other hard drugs such as Heroin and Cocaine need to be imported from overseas, ice, on the other hand, is easily and cheaply produced. That makes ice a drug of choice in country areas, compared to the more expensive drugs like Cocaine and Heroin that are more accessible in major cities. Ice also has the “advantage” of producing a more significant high for users compared to other drugs. However, the lows are more severe. As a consequence, the drug is highly addictive. An event will be held at Young Town Hall on June 5th at 6:30 pm, organised by Young High School and Young Shire Council. The meeting will also feature guest speaker Tony Hoang, a chaplain and a youth worker. Hoang was previously a gang member and a drug dealer in Cabramatta, where 6 of his 13 friends were murdered. He has seen the effects of drugs first hand, and hopes to break the destructive cycle that perpetuates their use. Entry is free, and all members of the public are welcome to attend.