Heartbeat March 2011 by Bangalow Heartbeat

free ■ MARCH 2011 No.146 ■ Celebrating the Life and Times of the local Community This time of the year the hills are alive with gorgeously gaudy plants and flowers, and insects of all kinds ‘doing their thing’. Turn to pages 10-14 to see what local folk have found flourishing in the garden.

Share the care: A new approach to communal gardening – Landshare, page 12

Heliconia heaven: They may be common around here but what a visual joy, page 13

special nature issue

Kitchen and Bathroom Showroom 10am -5pm Mon til Fri

Saturday by appointment

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Editorial Editorial

The ebb and flow of life The editors of Heartbeat rarely receive feedback. When we do, it’s most often negative. We have been told we are “not political enough” at one end of the spectrum, and “too fluffy” at the other. The person making the latter remark would prefer that we cut out coverage of ‘natural remedies’ and articles on wildlife (and ‘birds and butterflies’), while the former agitates for more aggressive and persuasive political comment. The current editors have always aimed to run a selection of articles of interest to as wide a range of 2479 readers as possible. Coincidentally, for this issue, we received enough contributions to call this the ‘Nature Edition’. From twin brushtail possums and giant snails to creekside weed walks, we have five pages of nature coverage. On the political front, 26 March is the date of the next NSW State Government

elections, so we have some information to prepare you for those, too. We are hoping all bases are covered… As floods and droughts come and go, as the seasons rotate, so too there is a natural progression in the volunteer staff at Heartbeat. This issue is the last one to be produced by a team including Niels Arup as primary designer, with Stephanie King and Christobel Munson heading the editorial team. We are very happy that Dianne Martin, as editor and Allie Leo, as designer, will take over the reigns with the next edition to be published. Allie has worked on the production of Heartbeat for at least eight years, and Di, as advertising coordinator, for nearly five years, so they know the ropes well. There will be no April edition published as too many of our volunteer staff will be absent, so look out for the next edition early in May. Christobel Munson

Cover photo credits: Flowering Gums in my Garden by Ivo Correia; Heliconias by Terry Bleakley. This page: After the Fire by Mick Upton.

Bangalow’s

Heartbeat

Bangalow Fire Update

www.heartbeat.net.au PO Box 132 Bangalow NSW 2479 Editors: Christobel Munson Stephanie King Email: editors@heartbeat.net.au Advertising: Di Martin 6687 2592 Email: advertising@heartbeat.net.au Design: Niels Arup narup@bigpond net .au

The Urban Café and Millar & More clothing Progress is happening at the site of the recent fire in Bangalow. The demolition of the burnt store will return to the same locations. Upstairs plans have not yet been finalised. out remains has been completed. At this stage there is no time frame for Owner of the building, John Singh, says the design of the new building will be in keeping rebuilding. However John Singh has had with Bangalow’s heritage style. Plans are meetings with Byron Shire Council and reports currently being drawn up for a replacement that Council is hoping to enable rebuilding to get started as soon possible. Lyn Hon Plummer building by Ron Johnson of Tintenbar. DISCLAIMER. This news-letter is published by Bangalow’s Heartbeat Incorporated POas Box 132 NSW 2479. Editors Stephanie King; Karen Jordan, Hon Sec/Public Officer Terry Adcock. Membership is open to all adult residents of the ‘2479’

DISCLAIMER. published byby Bangalow’s Heartbeat Incorporated PO Box 132 NSWshared 2479. Hon. Editors Christobel Munson, Stephanieof postal district.This Thenewsletter opinionsis expressed individual contributors are not necessarily by the Editors and other members King, Hon Sec/Public Officer Helen Wilson. Membership is open to all adult residents of the 2479 postal district. The opinions expressed by individual the Association While every reasonable effort isofmade to publish accurate information, Bangalow’s Heartbeat Inc. contributors are not committee. necessarily shared by the Editors and other members the Association committee. While every reasonable effort is made to publish acceptsinformation, no responsibility forHeartbeat statements made or expressed. accurate Bangalow’s Inc. accepts no opinions responsibility for statements made or opinions expressed. Printed by Pristine Publications.

BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

l o ca l n e w s

Fire Station Park

The nearly completed refurbishment of the Fire Station Heritage Park has caused plenty of comment.

Heartbeat has received a number of quite indignant comments on the resolution to the upgrade of this centre-of-town park. None of it flattering. While it could easily be argued that if a place has been designated ‘Heritage’ it should retain some original – or sympathetic – ‘historical’ elements, it is also reasonable to suggest that a modern interpretation could have been equally appropriate. If only… If only some shelter had been provided from both the searing sun and the belting rain. Or some seating that did not entail sitting on hard concrete steps, linear wooden benches or at a camphor wood table. This latter had to be chained down to stop it escaping when it realised that it was not in a compatible style with anything else – old or new. It all seems so sterile and unsuitable. Such a shame for what used to be a friendly (if shabby) meeting place. All that money and we end up with a hard-edge, high-style park that reflects neither the character nor needs of Bangalow. There must be a way to make it more user-friendly. Rant by Stephanie King

Showgirl in the zone Our 2010 Showgirl, 24 year-old Madelyn Herwig from Fernleigh, will be representing Bangalow at The Land Sydney Royal Showgirl Zone Finals on Saturday 26 March in Lismore. Describing herself as a “bit of a daredevil”, Madelyn has been a regular competitor at the Bangalow Show, particularly in the Showjumping events, but she has also tried the Belt Buckle and Boot Cup and the steer ride in the Rodeo. Showgirls representing 14 country shows

from the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast will be judged at the Zone Finals on their rural and general knowledge, personality, confidence, presentation and speech. Two girls are then selected to compete in the finals at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in April. The Bangalow Show Society is very proud to have Madelyn representing the district as our Showgirl and we all wish her well at the Zone Finals. The Bangalow Show Committee

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Final Celebrations!

Friday 4th March 12.30pm Bangalow Park Lunch at Heritage Tearooms Wetland Site Walk and Talk Learn about Bangalow Park History Bookings by 1st March shannonbg@sustainablefutures.com.au Full Reconnecting to Country ‘Grand Tour’ Program: www.sustainablefutures.com.au or www.rouswater.nsw.gov.au Reconnecting to Country is a partnership project between Rous Water, Sustainable Futures Australia and Widjabul Elders of the Bundjalung Nation.

Heritage House’s Dawn Lotty and Chamber of Commerce’s Michael Malloy do some plaque work.

Launching the Heritage Walk Late in February the Bangalow Historical Society, in conjunction with the Bangalow Chamber of Commerce, launched a Heritage Walk of historical buildings of interest around the town of Bangalow. MP Don Page unveiled one of the plaques located on the streetside verandah of the Bangalow Post Office. Following the ‘opening ceremony’ a morning tea was held at the Heritage House Museum. “The intention of setting up a Heritage Walk is to provide visitors to the town, and residents of the area, the chance to have a self-guided tour to learn more about the past uses and history of buildings around Bangalow,” said Rita Cowled, president of the Bangalow Historical Society. “Depending on your individual speed,

it will offer a leisurely half-hour walk to both expand your knowledge of what happened here in times past, and acknowledge the interesting and constantly changing history of our town.” More than 25 plaques were mounted on buildings with ‘a past’. A map of Heritage Walk is available from the Heritage House Museum and various shops in Bangalow. Preparation for the launch took a hardworking team from the Historical Society many months to coordinate and prepare. Most involved were Vivienne Gorec, Dawn and Robert Lotty and Rita Cowled with financial support provided by the Bangalow Chamber of Commerce. For more information, contact the Bangalow Historical Society Museum and Tearooms on (02) 6687 2183. Christobel Munson

ANZAC Day announcement Please take note: ANZAC Day this year falls on Easter Monday and all ExServicemen and women are invited to take part in the commemorations. The parade will assemble at Memorial Park (near the roundabout), on 25 April at 10.30am ready for the march to head off at 10.45am for the RSL Hall in Station Street. Accompanying

the parade will be the Bangalow Drum party, and it is hoped that members of the 41st Battalion, community groups and WWII vehicles will also be present. The march will be followed by the wreathlaying ceremony at the Cenotaph and the traditional ANZAC commemoration service in the hall. Chris Gray

BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

local news

Watch out: State Elections ahead In case you had not yet noticed, the State known as the inaugural President of TOOT Government elections will be held on (Trains on our Tracks), was the only candidate Saturday 26 March. Bangalow falls into the to contact Heartbeat with information on her Ballina State Electorate and covers an area of campaign. Her story follows: Karin Kolbe is standing as an Independent 980 square kilometres. It includes Alstonville, Bangalow, Ballina, Byron Bay, Brunswick at the 26 March State government election. As Heads, Mullumbimby, Ocean Shores, Wardell well as being the President and spokesperson and Wollongbar. About 44,000 voters are of TOOT, Ms Kolbe is also the presenter of registered on the electoral role, with an overall BayFM’s program ‘The Spin Cycle’ aired each Friday morning. population of about 60,000. “Independents need to be part of our Bangalow is located in the centre of our State electorate. Byron Shire takes up about governments,” says Karin. “Only Independents 50 per cent of the electorate, the north half, while Ballina Shire covers about the other 50 per cent, to the south. Within Bangalow you can vote at the A&I Hall, at Coorabell Public School, or at Fernleigh, Newrybar or Teven-Tintenbar Primary Schools. Other nearby polling booths are at the Ewingsdale Hall and Xavier Catholic College in Skennars Head. There are four local candidates up for election to the Lower House for Toby Warnes Don Page 2479 residents to consider. Byron Shire mayor, Jan Barham, is running on the Greens ticket for a spot in the Upper House. Don Page MP, who joined the National Party in 1984, has been the State Member for Ballina since 1988 – the first and only. A familiar face in Bangalow, in those years he’s acted as the Shadow Minister for Tourism; Small Business; the North Coast; Regional Development; Skills Development and Training; Roads Simon Richardson Karin Kolbe and Housing; Forestry Land and Water Conservation; and Assistant Minister can truly champion their communities as they for Roads, as well as being a Parliamentatry don’t need to follow a party line. Our region is a complex mixture of agriculture, tourism, Secretary three times. The Labor Party candidate is 23-year-old artists and more. Bangalow brings all these Arts-Law uni student, Toby Warnes, while elements together in one beautiful unique Byron Shire councillor Simon Richardson package – from the Agricultural Show to is the Greens candidate. Karin Kolbe, well Bangalow pork to the Billy Cart Derby.”

Some years ago, Ms Kolbe participated in a transport forum held at the A&I Hall. “All the participants from Lismore were late, because a truck carrying canola oil had spilled its load on the Lismore-Bangalow road. I felt that the unused rail line outside the door was laughing at us.” In her opinion, a light-rail commuter train service with 16 trains per day would help solve Bangalow’s parking problems. “Action on rail and other transport services is essential. Political talk from current sitting members has produced nothing. Transport is key for so many state government services. Without transport, the best TAFEs, clinics and jobs are inaccessible to many. We need the right mix of buses, rail, roads, scooters and bicycles, for locals and visitors alike.” To Ms Kolbe, the disrepair of the Bangalow railway station symbolises the state government’s disrespect for Bangalow “and I will fight for its repair,” she adds. In her opinion, diversity is the key to resilient communities. “For instance, Bangalow is home to Screenworks which is a great example of the new ‘creative economy’ that thrives in the region. As well, we must fiercely protect our natural environment. Clean water and air, biodiversity and reducing carbon emissions are essential for long-term prosperity.” To Ms Kolbe, “Centralised planning from Macquarie Street doesn’t work. Long-term we need to get rid of our state governments. To start that process, our regional bodies need to have more responsibilities and a much greater say in regional planning.” Before moving to the area in 2002 (she lives in Suffolk Park and is president of the Suffolk Park Progress Association), Ms Kolbe owned an IT company in Sydney. Christobel Munson

BANGALOW Wholesale Nursery Editors: Christobel Munson Stephanie King Art: Niels Arup Advertising: Dianne Martin Ad Production: Allie Leo Editorial Team: Judy Baker, Marika Bryant, Tony Hart, Lyn Plummer, Brian Sundstrom Sub editor: Helen Wilson Research: Pam Beazley, Moira McDade Distribution: Bangalow Post Office, Brian Sundstrom, Peter Bradridge Web Pages: Wendy Gray Accounts: Rob Campbell Chairman: Neville Maloney

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community noticeboard

Ethics Classes

Bangalow Public School is looking for community volunteers to teach philosophical ethics classes once a week to Year 5 and 6 students. Training will be provided by the St James Ethics Centre to selected volunteers. For more information visit www. primaryethics.com.au and contact the school ethics coordinator at ivo.bangalow@gmail. com Ivo Correia

CWA – Learn a Craft

Every Saturday morning 10am-2pm CWA is hosting ‘Keep you in Stitches’. Learn something new, come and sit and stitch with us. Everyone welcome. In conjunction with Senior’s Week the Bangalow CWA is holding a ‘Learn a Handicraft Skill’ on 26 March, 10am-2pm at their CWA rooms in Bangalow. Come along, meet some locals, have a cuppa and learn a craft. Learn how to knit, crochet, embroider or sew. Bring your own UFO (un-finished object) and get some help to finish it off. For more info, phone Claire on 6687 0557. Claire O’Meara

Garden Club Competition

The Bangalow Garden Club’s Biennial Garden Competition will be held in mid-September. Judging day will be on Friday 23 September and entry forms will be available soon. More club information on page 13. Helen Johnston

SK8 Park

Wednesday 2 March at 6pm (note time change) at Bangalow Bowlo. Come and join us and have your say – we especially need people who understand funding and how to get it. We had a ‘beneficiary’ stall at the February market selling T-shirts and caps with our new logo and also tickets for our next raffle which will be drawn at the Billy Cart Derby. For

more info: Jane Reffell 6687 1640; Lyle Le Sueur 6687 1644 Email: bangalowsk8park@ gmail.com Jane Reffell

BCCC Celebrates

This year marks the 30th Anniversary of the opening of the Bangalow Community Children’s Centre. We plan to celebrate in style! We’ll kick off with the BCCC Birthday Boogie – a welcome disco for families, which will be held at the A&I Hall on 12 March. Stay tuned for details of a number of BCCC anniversary events scheduled to take place in 2011, culminating in the major annual fundraiser, which will be held in October. Get your dancing shoes ready and watch this space! Kerry Elbourn

Tintenbar News

Dance across the Generations Following our very successful dancing demonstration last year, TINCAN, in collaboration with the Tintenbar Hall Committee and Red Cross, will again be celebrating Senior’s Week with a display of dancing. This will be at Tintenbar Hall, on Wednesday 23 March from 10.00am-1.30pm. Entertainment will include a ballroom display by Des and Pat Baptist and Teven Tintenbar school. A light lunch will be provided. Enquiries: Marg Dean, 6687 8033, or Toska McLeod, 6687 8140. Toska McLeod

Hallelujah

The Northern Rivers Conservatorium Arts Centre and the Bangalow Chamber of Commerce have agreed to sponsor a major choral event in Bangalow on Sunday 29 May 2011. For more information see the May issue of Heartbeat. Michael Malloy

Travel Photography Contest

Following its success last year, the Northern Rivers Travel Photography contest is on again.

MOBILE LIBRARY At Bangalow School every Saturday morning 9.30am -11.30am

This year’s theme is ‘City Sights and Nature’s Delights’, with all funds raised going to Bangalow Land and Rivercare. The contest is open to photographers of all ages with great prizes, including $350 worth of cash prizes donated by the Bangalow Chamber of Commerce, up for grabs. The closing date for entries is Wednesday 29 June. Winners will be announced at a fundraising exhibition at the A&I Hall on Thursday 30 June. So get snapping! For info: Kim on 0400 887 991 or kim@ wildwriting.com.au Kim Wildman

Bowlo News

The Cowboy Cup, Sunday 20 March at 9.30am for a 10am start. Entry of $15 includes green fees and lunch. There will be seafood raffles and prizes. A fun day to celebrate Roy Hulbert’s life. Donations and proceeds will go to Roy’s chosen charity: the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service in Lismore. Phone the Bowlo to put your name down. Courtesy Bus available. All enquiries: 6687 1235. Saturday 5 April we will be having the Well Swung Daddies playing, $15 entry. Tickets at club. Our Monster Easter Raffle will be in mid March. Tickets at bar, $2 each or six for $5. Drawn the week before Easter. Check the front billboard for what’s on. Please support us so we can continue to support you. Hope to see you soon. Caroline Nolan

Writers Group

The next meeting of the Bangalow Writers Group is to be held on Thursday 3 March at 9.45am sharp at Heritage House.There is also an informal coffee morning on Thursday 17 March 10am at Heritage House to chat about anything and everything to do with writing. Feel free to join our friendly and supportive group to help discover your hidden talents

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BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT 66 BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

or to develop/improve your existing writing endeavours. Info: Simone on 6629 1838 or James on 6628 5061. Simone

Lions Club

2011 started with good news: a cheque for $14,000 was forwarded to the Lions Queensland Flood Relief Appeal. These funds were raised by the Bangalow Lions Club, the Anglican Op Shop and several private donations. Unnecessary administration fees were averted by sending the cheque directly to the Appeal. In this way the money is guaranteed to reach those personally affected. Heartfelt thanks to all who contributed. Visitors to the Bangalow Farmers Market are advised that a Lions fund raiser for 2011 will be a Saturday morning raffle – twice a month – outside the Foodworks Supermarket, and we anticipate local support for this venture. Lions Hearing Dogs appeal and Bangalow Land and Rivercare Group have been two recent recipients. We welcome the reinstatement on Saturday 19 March of the cancelled Christmas Eve Street Carnival. Our usual Lions BBQ will be in operation, as it will be for the Cancer Council Relay for Life on March 12 at the Showground. We welcome new members to our Lions Club. Meetings are held at 7pm on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at the Anglican Hall. Enquiries to Secretary Roger Forman (02) 6687 0543 or email: normie@nnsw.quik.com.au Lion Kevin Palmer

Pony Club

The season is up and riding again and the fun of catching up with friends old and new is upon us again. Our first inter club competition is happening early March. Providing safety with horses: Many parents buy their children a pony but, with the changing of rural development, it is getting hard to ride

in safety. Pony Club can cater for your child’s ability and offers safety and information in all aspects of horsemanship skills from understanding instructors. Pony Club meets on selected Saturdays throughout the season which runs from February to August. Our rally days have been organised and campdraft and sporting days are also on the agenda throughout the season, along with the disciplines of flat riding and dressage. Enquiries regarding our club can be directed to Sherida, 6684 7495, or Julie, 6688 4232 or 0432 313 894. Julie Ash

Cabaret da Desh

Here we go again – and Saturday 16 July will be our 11th show. This is just a little nudge to all who love having fun on stage – and Da Desh time. We would love to hear from you all: ideas, acts – any jugglers out there? Maybe some performing animals. Let’s hear about them. There will be changes this year as a few people have moved, but that doesn’t mean everything stops. On with the show! Please give Karen and Ruth a call on 6687 1393 or 0439 862 816. Karen Ryan

Kevin Palmer Speaks

Local author Kevin Palmer, whose memoir Boys’ Home to Broadway was launched at the 2010 Byron Bay Writers Festival, is proving to be a popular guest speaker with various organisations in the district. He has recently spoken to the Ocean Shores Probus Group, the Friends of Ballina Library and the Bangalow Book Club. This month on 9 March he will be at the Bangalow CWA to discuss his book and the time he lived in Iceland and during Senior’s Week – Tuesday 22 March – at the U3A Group in Lismore. For availability check: brucemcdonough@ hotmail.com Kevin Palmer

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Reconnecting Celebration

The final Bangalow event in the Reconnecting to Country celebrations will be on Friday 4 March, 12.30pm, at Heritage House. There’ll be lunch followed by a wetland site walk and talk. If you’d like to join in, RSVP to Shannon Baunach-Greenfields (shannonbg@ sustainablefutures.com.au). For full details of the program check the Rous Water Website.

Nia

Getting fit can feel fabulous. Nia is a sensorybased movement practice that leads to health, wellness and fitness. It empowers people of all shapes and sizes by connecting the body, mind and spirit. Nia takes dance, martial arts and healing arts and combines them to create an hour-long movement routine, done barefoot, to great music. Founded in 1982 by Debbie Rosas and Carlos Aya-Rosas, Nia is an opportunity for whole body conditioning and it’s about the joy of movement. It is based on a philosophy that ‘movement is medicine’. Nia is at the RSL Hall on Wednesday mornings at 10.30 am. Just bring water, a towel, a yoga mat (if you have one) and your curiosity. Enquires: Janet on 6684 9303; redplanetjanet@aapt.net.au; niaaustralia.com.au Janet Walker

ADFAS

The year’s first lecture, on Monday 28 March at 6.30pm, is The Treasures of the Silk Road. This 10,000kms highway, synonymous with romance and adventure, was used between 200-1500AD and provided cultural bridges as well as trade routes from Xi’an in China, through Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran and Syria to the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul. The lecturer is Chris Bradley. See last month’s Heartbeat for more info. Full program is on the website. Membership and other enquiries to Prue Langler on 6685 3495 or email adfas. byron@gmail.com Susie Warrick

North Coast Bookkeeping Services For all your Bookkeeping requirements including BAS, QuickBooks or MYOB ph: 6687 2604 Ian Holden fax: 6687 2893 7 Rosewood Ave, Bangalow book001@bigpond.net.au Member of Australian Bookkeepers Network

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Poultry parasites Hopefully your poultry all escaped that nasty wet, now they are facing the extreme heat. Here is some information on how to deal with external parasites on poultry. To keep your birds cool is exactly the same as you keep yourself cool; provide plenty of fresh cool water stored out of the sun, lots of shade, and let the chickens do their own thing. Just a reminder though, the external parasites are a worry to the poultry, and again this is the type of weather they thrive in. A parasite is a living organism that invades the body of your bird, and survives without providing benefit. It generally stays on the outside of the chicken’s body. The major external parasites of birds are lice, scaly leg mites, feather mites, ticks, fleas, flies and mosquitoes. Death from these infestations are rare, but production losses often occur because of irritation to the bird. Most external parasites suck blood and can cause the bird to become anaemic and unwell.

External parasites can spread from bird to bird, so again good husbandry is very important. But none of these parasites is invasive to humans. Control is simple Talk to your vet or stock feed agent and purchase the correct insecticide and follow the manufacturer’s instructions very carefully.

Birds may be sprayed, dusted or dipped; dusting is more convenient if there are only a few birds. Whatever method you use, ensure that the bird is completely covered with insecticide. Under the wings and around the

vent (anus) are often missed and these are favourite areas for the parasite. If you feel the lice are out of control it will be necessary to clean the roost where the bird sleeps, the nest boxes, walls, ceiling and crevasses (after the birds are removed). I am not able to cover each parasite individually but a lot of common sense is needed. Look out for the health and wellbeing of your chickens and you will ensure years of enjoyment from them. Remember to clean your pens once a week. A good balanced diet with fresh clean water, and a quick inspection of each bird, is all that is needed and I guarantee you a lovely fresh egg for breakfast every day. Contact the Poultry Club on 6687 1322 if you need further information, And a reminder that the annual Northern Rivers Poultry Auction will be held at the Bangalow Showground on 17 April. www. bangalowpoultryclub.com.au Glenda McKenzie

baby feeding space at the markets With the generous support of the Bangalow Parks Trust, the Northern Rivers branch of the Maternity Coalition has been given permission to use the verandah of the Moller Pavilion to establish a Babies’ Feeding Space at the Bangalow Monthly Markets. There the organisers have created a

‘refuge’ from the bussle and noise that are part and parcel of the Sunday market scene. Rugs are spread out and a range of toys are set up so families with their little ones can stop and take a break from the crush of people and the (often overwhelming) heat of the market. The project had been running

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BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

remembering

Pauline Trimble. 1 May 1929 – 2 February 2011 Farewelled by her community on 4 February 2011. Pauline Trimble was a Nashua girl who lived and breathed family and community. She was part of the essence and fabric of Nashua for over 80 years. Pauline was born in Nashua, went to school here, worshipped at the local church. She was a Sunday school teacher, and a member of the ladies fellowship group that kept the community connected. Apart from a brief couple of years ‘away’ in Booyong, Pauline lived in Nashua all her life. Born Pauline Johnston, she married Ken Trimble and together they made a home where their three children Peter, Paul and Janelle grew and thrived (partly, I am sure, because of her amazing cooking!) To her family she was the centre of farm life and home. When I met Pauline she was an enthusiastic

and passionate supporter of ‘our Nashua’. The work we did together gathering history and shaping the community cricket day were days of fun, enthusiasm and support. Pauline’s amazing memory recalled events and places, people and spirit. She could connect you to picnics on horseback, dances, trips to the beach, endless hours spent milking and cooking. She was always cooking for sports gatherings and celebrations and picnics. Pauline had a way to bring out the best in you: she was the rock of her family and that care extended to the community of Nashua. She helped me link up with so much more than a community of people. She lived and breathed the ‘Spirit of Nashua’ and was so very keen to share this treasure and help bring

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it to life in any way she could. Never at the front – but always there: Pauline wouldn’t speak publicly, but would stand beside you and support you. Pauline’s legacy lives on in our renewed community, in all the history we gathered before it became lost or forgotten, and in our community cricket day which Ken and Pauline Trimble graciously hosted and supported. When I think of Pauline I think of the words of Australian poet Noel Davis: ‘It’s little things done with love that weather the sea of time.’ Pauline leaves behind lifelong friends – and new ones. We are all better people for knowing Pauline and sharing her gentle, graceful, encouraging and vivid spirit. Jacinta Lithgow

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Greenies of the month: Neil and Erica Holland

As you drive from Bangalow the back way to the Bay and approach Hayters Hill, there is a patch of rainforest on the right just before the St Helena Road junction. This is part of Neil and Erica Holland’s property. Erica inherited this land from her great-grandfather, pioneer settler J. J. Hayter. Together with husband Neil they purchased an adjoining farm 38 years ago when they gave up teaching to work the property full time. They now have some 120ha for their beef cattle, farm stay, cabinet timber and rainforest regeneration projects. The two hectare patch of heritage-listed rainforest has been well-preserved and maintained by the Hollands. This involved taking out ‘weeds’ such as madeira vine, privet, lantana and crofton weed, then frequent follow up. They have also added an adjoining two hectare of new plantings. This has been done with assistance from the National Heritage Trust, Big Scrub and Byron Creek Landcare and Rainforest Rescue, with 3500 trees planted from 1992 to 1995. These are now well-developed, considering the exposed southern aspect, and almost look part of the original scrub. (In the photo above, the junction of the new planting is behind Erica.) The Hollands made the interesting observation that the remnant is still growing taller (a nearby long-term resident is losing some of his view). Perhaps some of the biggest trees were logged many years ago and are now being replaced? There have been no further trees taken out for at least 120 years, though. A very pleasing feature of the property is the way different areas are managed. Parts that

can be sustainably grazed have been cleared of rock so they can be slashed and kept weedfree. There is virtually no soil-loss from well grassed and grazed paddocks compared, for example, to other enterprises in this district involving ploughing or bare soil surfaces. Steeper areas, gullies and creek banks are being progressively revegetated with native trees. This is very important, particularly the creek banks, as it is the headwaters of Byron Creek. (In flood time, Neil has kayaked from the spillway of the dam down to Eltham!) Their 12-year-old cabinet timber plantation has unfortunately had very mixed success, despite many weeks of labouring. Hoop Pine is the best performer, being less susceptible to wallaby damage. Wallabies were originally not native there, but are now a major challenge to young trees. Neil and Erica were among the founding members of the Byron Creek Catchment Landcare group. Formed in 1993, the group has done great restoration work along the creek in that area. This continues, with a new grant received only recently. Erica says the paperwork is becoming ever more demanding however. Some other land management challenges faced by this hard-working and enterprising couple include: debates with the Shire about taking a little of the scrub to straighten the road; environmental weeds and grasses invading land; declining support for rural industries. The total result is a productive and environmentally responsible property, with lovely walks for farm stay guests and many lessons for other landholders. Brian Sundstrom

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Giant rainforest snail, Hedleyella falconeri

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NATURE NOTES FOREST SNAILS

Tread lightly in the forests, says Judy Baker. You never know what treasures lie underfoot.

While walking in our native forests there is a great abundance of plant species and wildlife, so it’s hard to know whether to look up at the trees and birds and butterflies or look down to watch your step. On the forest floor bright fungi take the eye, but look more closely and you might see some of the snails that inhabit our region. They are an important part of the recycling of nutrients in the forest. Three species I’ve come across on local walks are: n The Giant Rainforest snail, Hedleyella falconeri, has a shell that can grow to 100mm (that’s larger than a tennis ball) and is considered Australia’s largest land snail. It lives in sub-tropical rainforest, where it forages in the leaf litter, and is considered relatively common. n A snail that carries its shell more horizontally than upright, probably Fastosarion (Helicarion) freycineti. n Mitchell’s rainforest snail, Thersites mitchellae, with a shell to 55mm, is confined to lowland forest of the north-eastern NSW coast, from Lennox Head to the Tweed. Although once common, for some years it was thought to be extinct, following massive clearance of lowland forests in northern New South Wales for coastal development. Now small populations have been found at a number of sites. It is listed as critically endangered, with possibly less than 500 mature individuals extant. A research team from Southern Cross University is monitoring the populations of the snail and studying its ecology. Watch for it in coastal paperbark forests. Mitchell’s rainforest snail, Thersites mitchellae

MARCH 2011 MARCH 2011

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our environment

Flowering Summ

Young gardeners showing they care to Landshare.

Matchmaking Gardeners In January, the Northern Rivers became the first region in Australia to launch a new community gardening joint venture: Landshare Australia. Through its website www.landshareaustralia. com.au it will provide a social networking service to introduce people with spare land to others wanting to grow vegetables, but with nowhere to do it. “Public concern for ‘food miles’, mounting food prices and a desire to get back to old fashioned flavour has generated a dramatic rise in people wanting to grow their own fruit and vegetables,” said gardening ‘guru’ and co-founder of the new service, Phil Dudman. “With the recent floods and associated food shortages, there’s never been a better time to get started. “Backyards in Australia are getting smaller

leaving thousands of would-be revolutionaries yearning for a piece of dirt on which to grow. That’s where Landshare Australia comes in,” explains Phil. “We are calling for people in the Northern Rivers to register their interest in Landshare Australia – as landowners, gardeners and helpers – to show the rest of Australia how the concept works. “Helpers can offer their assistance in the field or share their knowledge online by answering questions and participating in website forums. We’re also looking for people to register as ‘supporters’, those who support the idea of freeing up more local land for food production and want to be kept up to date with the Landshare movement.” For more information contact Phil Dudman on 6622 1654, mob 0410 625 622.

At present two lovely pink flowering trees are gracing our district. One is a native which grows from the Clarence River up the coast to north Queensland and into Papua New Guinea. This is the pink Euodia, now classified as Melicope elleryana (previously Euodia elleryana) in the Rutacaeae family. The flowers are very distinctive, a very pretty rich pink, growing along a branch in tight little balls. Close up they look rather hairy. It is a very useful tree for gullies or areas that are inclined to be wettish. It grows fast and can top 10 metres in suitable situations. The flowers become black seeds in the winter and attract many birds. They also attract the lovely blue Ulysses butterfly. The other pink tree flowering at present

Pink Cassia (Cassia javanica)

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Bringing back childhood memories: a ‘Magic Faraway Tree.’

mer Trees – Pink is Cassia javanica (also called Cassia nodosa) which originates in Malaysia and Indonesia. It is sometimes called the apple blossom shower tree and grows its flowers along the branches above the leaves in a spectacular display of whitish pink blossom. These have five petals rather like a single rose. The flower also has a slight rose scent. This handsome tall tree tends to develop an umbrella type shape rather like the Poinciana and in very dry weather can be deciduous for a short time in winter. Many plants which used to be classified as Cassia have now been reclassified as Senna because of their medicinal value. They mostly have yellow flowers. Helen Wilson

bangalow garden club Thirty members of the Garden Club enjoyed the first Saturday social outing for the year to a lovely five-acre rural property in Eureka with an enchanting ‘Faraway Tree’. The place was recently acquired by a new member who is making changes to the garden. Input from visitors

Pink Euodia (Melicope elleryana)

was welcomed in identifying some trees and shrubs and making suggestions for future planning. The next meeting is Wednesday 2 March, 1.30pm. Gwen Weir will show how to make a simple worm farm to provide the garden with lots of nourishment. Helen Johnston

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our environment

Creekside Weed Walk Late in December members of the Jindibah intentional community in Fowlers Lane were happy to learn that they had been selected to receive a grant from the federal government’s Caring for our Country funding for Community Action Groups. The grants are made available through the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. The objective of the ‘Sleepy Creek Riparian Restoration Project’ is to extend remnant lowland rainforest by controlling lantana and other weeds, to improve the water quality of Sleepy Creek, a tributary of Wilson’s Creek, and to provide a wildlife corridor adjoining neighbouring corridors. The group’s first experiential field day was held in January after weeks of very heavy rain. The purpose was to identify specific weeds and learn how to effectively deal with them. A group of 19 people braved the weather for the creekside weed walk, including members of the Possum Creek Landcare Group, the Bangalow Land and Rivercare Group, the Fowlers Lane Community Group as well as residents of the Jindibah community. David Pont, an environmental scientist from

the Bangalow Land and Rivercare Group with extensive experience in the project management of natural wetland rehabilitation, led the group. He identified major weeds, and discussed the effective ways in which the Bangalow Landcare group had treated such weeds in similar locations over the last 13 years. Among other matters, David explained how to deal with the regrowth on one large camphor laurel growing by the Jindibah community’s creek swimming hole that had been treated with Roundup eight years ago. Since then new shoots had appeared along an upper section of the tree, together with a number of 2m high suckers nearby along the creek bank. Since the tree wasn’t dead, not enough Round-up had been used initially. David recommended

Double Trouble Northern Rivers Wildlife Carer, Pam Hide, is caring for the first set of rare Brushtail possum twins that the group has dealt with since it began in 1992. The possum’s mother had died by the time she came into Pam’s care so the furless twins, weighing 106 and 110 grams, came into the world prematurely to meet their foster mum. ‘Running Bear’ and ‘Little Big Foot’ are very different to the Ringtail possums Pam usually has in care. “Ringtails are gentler and less aggressive than Brushtails,” she explained. “The twins are double the trouble, double the learning and double the experiences.” Pam has observed that each possum’s personality is quite distinctive: Little Big Foot is a greedy feeder, but observant. Running Bear is a playful extrovert. The

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‘girls’ will stay with Pam in Bangalow for the first two months of their lives, then go to a carer with an aviary from which they will eventually have a ‘slow release’ back into the environment. To learn how to become a carer and acquire basic rescue methods for our diverse range of local wildlife, the Northern Rivers Wildlife Carers is holding an introductory training day, from 9am-4pm on 27 March in Wollongbar. The cost is $30, which includes one year’s membership. For information call Jo after 9am on 6624 7778 or email jo_shep@yahoo.com If you

injecting the living part of the tree with Roundup, using 1ml for every cm diameter of the tree. To treat the suckers, use of either Roundup or diesel was recommended. During the walk the means of dealing with a number of other weeds including lantana, setaria, paspalum, wandering jew, whisky grass, rag weed, privet, mistweed and fireweed was discussed. Constructive use of lomandra and creeping grevillia along the weeded creek banks was advised. Results of the walk and ongoing reports of the activities of the Sleepy Creek Riparian Restoration Project will be uploaded onto the community’s website www.jindibahcommunity.org over the 18 month course of the project, with other community events to come. After creekside weeds are controlled, the riparian area will be prepared for revegetation and planted with local species. Weed control will prevent further erosion while the project aims to preserve the genetic resource of existing plant species. The creek walk was concluded with a barbecue in Harry Fowler’s old shed by Sleepy Creek, the location of many Bangalow community celebrations for nearly 100 years. Christobel Munson

do find an injured or orphaned animal please call the Northern Rivers Wildlife Carers’ 24 hour hotline on 6628 1866. Pam is happy when the joeys she raises successfully make the transition from pouch to aviary. “There is great satisfaction in giving these creatures a second chance at life. Knowing that they come into care in the first place because of humans, a car hit or a pet attack, then it does become our responsibility to give them that opportunity to grow and to live. Even if it does mean hopping up at 3am and then again at 7am!” Jo Shepherd

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local news

The Scarlett School

The Scarlett School is a Contemporary Music School based in Newrybar. Open to kids and adults alike, this is the place “to learn the music you want to learn” in the words of the school’s founders, singing sisters Melia and Nerida Naughton, of Scarlett Affection. The Scarlett School launched last June with a sold-out concert showcasing some exceptionally talented local students. Since then it has grown exponentially, and now has 50 students learning songwriting, voice, piano, guitar and performance.

Melia and Nerida are delighted to uncover such local talent. Says Melia: “We have been overwhelmed with interest for the School, which reflects the calibre of talent in the Northern Rivers community.” Nerida adds: “There are so many young people creating amazing original music and playing the music they want to play. We are very excited to be working with them.” Last November Scarlett School students were invited to perform at the Mullum Music Festival which proved to be a “real highlight”.

Many involved had not previously performed beyond their lounge rooms, so the Mullum Civic Hall provided a more professional location for their debut public performances. Apart from the Scarletts, the School’s teachers include songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Emily Rose Sorensen, an enthusiastic teacher with a strong focus on vocal training. During the Easter break, the School will run a holiday intensive workshop for budding songwriters. For more details call the Studio on 6687 1925 or www.scarlettaffection.com

Bangalow Fruit Cake At the 2010 Bangalow Show Leanne Prior won the ‘Rich Fruit Cake Competition’, following the recipe as directed in the Show Schedule. As the Bangalow Show winner Leanne had to bake another Fruit Cake only a week later for the Zone Finals in Casino where she was up against the best Fruit Cakes in Northern NSW. Never before has Bangalow won this stage of the competition, but Leanne Prior is our Fruit Cake Queen. She will soon be baking a third Fruit Cake, this time representing Bangalow and the North Coast at the Sydney Royal Easter Show! Karen Ryan Leanne Prior with Bangalow Show Committeemen – Denis Jarrett, Alf Jarrett, Murray Deane and Greg Nash. potential plus ouline ad.pdf

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artery

the arts Life is a challenge, and truly challenging for some more than others. To become one of the “others” involves choice, determination and focus, and also to “let go” of old habits and situations that just don’t serve well any more! Always wanted to be arty, but thought you just didn’t have the tools-of-the-trade to springboard into the unknown? Wait no longer. Marika Bryant suggests you try your hand at this little selection of opportunities. Go on! What’s holding you back, eh? Sculpture:

If you can sculpt and love chocolate, try this: create artworks from my favourite food group on Sunday 31 July, between 10-4 at Portside Wharf, Hamilton, Qld. Submissions to Gemma Lacey at info@ teamlacey.com.au or (07) 3356 6810. Swell Sculpture Festival 9-18 September is on again at Currumbin Beach and there is $30,000 in awards and acquisitions via Gold Coast City Council. Deadline 15 March; www.swellsculpture.com.au Hunter Region Botanic Gardens Sculpture Prize at Heatherbrae in May. Guidelines, application details, etc at http:// australiansculpture.com/ by 1 April.

Portraiture and Photography:

Environmental Photographer of the Year 2011 celebrates professional and amateur photographers who use their ability to raise awareness of environmental and social issues. Give it a go and make a difference through your passion: www. epoty.org by 31 July. The Olive Cotton Award ($20,000 Biennial Award for Excellence in

Photographic Portraiture) held 3 June to 31 July. http://www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/ by 1 April. The Northern Rivers Portrait Prize depicting people from the Northern Rivers who make a difference! www. lismoregallery.org/ by 25 March. Head on Portrait Prize: http://www. headon.com.au/ by 13 March.

(Colour my World); June (Scarlet); August (Dark Night of the Soul) eeekkkk; October (Trash); December (Visions for 2012). www.serpentinearts.org by 10 March.

Writing:

Gertrude Contemporary and/Art & Australia/Emerging Writers Program wants critical discussion of Australian contemporary art. Don’t we all? http:// opps.artabase.net/ by 10 March, for all of those with a view to share.

Show me the $$$$:

The Quick Response Scheme offers up a $1500 grant to access arts and cultural opportunities as they arise, so if they have already arisen for you, try www.nt.gov.au Want to exhibit at the Serpentine Gallery in Lismore? There are themed exhibitions calling for your work: March (Tree); April

Rainforest Reflections by Marika Bryant

Exhibitions:

Art on the Move: Your local art consortium, on again at the Moller Pavilion, INSIDE the Bangalow Showgrounds (near the band). Come see ME, Soren Carlbergg, Karyn Fendley, Leonie Jackson, Jacqueline King, Mike King-Prime, Bronwyn Russell, and many others (who knows who will be there?) plying their trade and showing off their wares. Bangalow Market Day, 27 March, www.marikabryant.com

Screenworks and ABC Open Catherine Marciniak, at back, at one of her community workshops.

In February, Northern Rivers Screenworks partnered with ABC Open to run an information workshop on the recently launched ABC Open. The workshop covered how ABC Open helps regional communities tell their stories. From uploading a photo or video story, to writing a blog or making a photo slide show, ABC Open has a range of collaborative MARCH 2011

community storytelling projects in which the interested public are invited to take part. North Coast based ABC Open Producer, Catherine Marciniak, is an award winning documentary filmmaker and television producer. She has lived on the North Coast for the past 13 years and has mentored and trained many emerging screen-content makers during her career.

“Launched in 2010, ABC Open is a wonderful resource for our community. It gets more stories about regional Australians on the public broadcaster; it allows our audience to have an interactive relationship with the ABC; and, at the same time it teaches screen content creators and the general public the digital skills they need to make the most of living in the digital age,” said Catherine. The Bangalow, Lismore and Murwillumbah workshops have passed, but on Thursday 3 March 10am-3pm at the Byron Bay Community Centre, 69 Jonson St, Byron Bay, there is a workshop in partnership with Northern Rivers Writers’ Centre. Saturday March 12, at the Grafton Regional Gallery, 158 Fitzroy Street, Grafton, there is a workshop in partnership with Grafton Regional Gallery. RSVP Catherine Marciniak at abcopen. northcoast.nsw@abc.net.au or phone 6627 2013. More information: www.abc.net.au/open or www.screenworks.com.au Lisa O’Meara 17

H E A LT H A N D W E L L B E I N G

Anxiety & Depression

Anxiety and depression are common but complex mood disorders in today’s society. They require individualised treatment as symptoms and causes are various. For the majority of sufferers their condition will be mild and, after a short period of rest and appropriate treatment, normal functioning will be restored. Unfortunately, some people have great difficulty in correcting the imbalances underlying their disease. Anxiety is part of a biologically useful reaction to danger, preparing us for flight or fight. However, excessive activity of this normal body function can lead to General Anxiety Disorder. Symptoms of this include lack of energy, irritability, tense muscles, difficulty in falling asleep or staying asleep, trembling, twitching, headaches and sweating. Most of us will experience these symptoms occasionally, but when these symptoms are prolonged they can greatly affect our ability to cope. Causes are individual. Most common is longterm stress – mental, emotional or physical – which overloads the body and starts to interfere with normal function. Hormonal imbalances, chemical sensitivities and blood sugar irregularities can further compound the problem. Naturopathic treatment includes dietary

recommendations to avoid stimulants such as tea, coffee and alcohol as well as sweets, refined foods and processed foods. Nutrient deficiencies are minimised by consuming a large range of fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, wholegrain cereals and breads, healthy oils and adequate protein. Calming herbal teas (like chamomile and lemon balm) are beneficial especially at night and with meals. The herbs passionflower and valerian can relieve sleep problems, and B complex vitamins and magnesium supplements may also be helpful as these nutrients are depleted in times of stress. Regular exercise and relaxation help release tension from the body. Depression is characterised by loss of interest or pleasure in almost all activities, difficulty in performing tasks, fatigue and depressed mood for most of the day. We all have ‘bad days’, but ongoing depression can be associated with chronic disease, imbalances in brain chemistry and adrenal exhaustion brought on by long-term stress. Omega 3 fatty acids are important for brain function, so eat more fish or supplement with EPA/DHA as part of a nutrient-rich diet. Siberian ginseng and withania support the adrenals, and Coenzyme Q10 assists in energy production. Kaye Shadbolt

SunSmart Nippers

Hundreds of Far North Coast nippers competed in February’s inter-club championship without worries of sunburn as the region became the first in NSW to introduce a new sun safe uniform policy. Surf Lifesaving FNC has developed the policy, making it mandatory for all competitors at nipper competitions across the region to wear a sun safe uniform including a long-sleeved shirt, wide brimmed hat and shorts between events. The FNC has amongst the highest skin cancer rates in NSW. More than 275 locals develop melanoma each year, with many others facing other forms of skin cancer.

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“Nippers can spend hours at the beach when competing in carnivals and it is our duty to protect them from sunburn when representing the club,” says Wayne Jones, President of Lennox Head/Alstonville SLSC. Michael Cannon, from FNC Cancer Council adds, “Children have extremely sensitive skin, and sunburn in childhood will greatly increase the risk of them developing skin cancer in later life. “Lifelong habits are formed at a young age so it’s heartening to see FNC SLSC encouraging sunburn prevention amongst nippers and their families as part of the ritual of visiting the beach.”

Feet First Health

Your shoes and running: When it comes to running, most of us rely heavily on our shoes. With those thick, bouncy soles, supportive instep and reinforced sides, it feels quite satisfying to hammer along the pavement, the slap of those shoes hitting the bitumen announcing your arrival to fellow pathwalkers ahead, waking babies in their prams as you pass. How could heavy running be bad for you? That’s the point of cushioned, ‘injury-preventing’ shoes, right? To support the foot? You may know from agonising experience how easy it is to develop some kind of injury from running. The Science of Sport, from Sportsscientists.com, highlights the amazing finding that despite the massive technological advancement of running shoes over the last 30 or 40 years, the “percentage of runners who get injured each year has remained pretty much the same”. Of course, you’d imagine that a more supportive shoe = less injury. However, what scientists are finding is that because runners’ feet and ankles are now supported by good shoes, they can’t feel when poor technique is slowly inflicting injury, and so they fail to fix that technique. For instance, landing heavily with the heel can gradually corrode the anterior cruciate ligament in your knees, especially for women. This leads to expensive surgery and lengthy, painful recovery time. So, the tip for this month is to occasionally run barefoot (doesn’t need to be a long distance) so that you can feel what is happening to your knees, ankles and feet when you use poor technique: heel striking first, heavy running, outside of foot rolling in, etc. You will naturally fix your own technique so it is comfortable to run barefoot, and technique is improved when it comes back to running in shoes. For more info check out Dr Chris Richards’ article: http://barefootrunningshoe. blogspot.com/2008/02/is-there-runningshoe-mafia.html. Dylan Arnot

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s o g g y mem o r i e s

WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE

The extraordinary floods that have swept this wide – and now quite water-logged – land have been an amazing sight on our TVs. But Terry Bleakley wants to remind us that up here, in the serene hills of Bangalow, we have seen our fair share of ‘washed away’ over the years. Believe it or not! 1930 Byron Creek in flood, near the Church.

1930s Byron Street flood.

Flood in Deacon and Station Streets.

1954 Flood in Station Street.

1981 May - a flash flood.

The Blacksmith’s shop in flood at the bottom of Byron Street.

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the biz

enter p r i s i ng New business happenings in Bangalow:

n BangBurgerBar has opened, located between Obsession and Tsang’s the Chinese restaurant. Looks like it could become a winner with a range of reasonably priced burgers with such names as Barbibeef, Bangaloha, Biteybeef, Bangchook, Bangasanga and The BigBang. n Barcoo Beef has relocated from Byron Bay to the Bangalow Industrial Estate, next to C&C Homemakers. Wholesale and retail. Their products are also available at Charlotte’s Market. n driftlab has replaced the Nurybah Gallery in Newrybar, next to the Harvest Café. Run by Zane Grier (whose brother Tristan owns Harvest), driftlab sells clothing, shoes and accessories.

New Urban Release Areas DCP

A new chapter begins for the Byron Shire Development Control Plan. Among other things, Tony Hart vents his frustration at bike paths and parking issues. Last year Heartbeat reported on the 2010 Byron Shire DCP in which the section on Bangalow remains much as it was 15 years ago when the DCP was first prepared. At its last full meeting in 2010, Council considered a separate DCP for the six areas of Bangalow recently rezoned residential, some of which already have development proposals pending. This will become an additional chapter of the overall Shire DCP (even though there is an existing separate chapter dedicated to Bangalow). Surely it would be easier for developers and residents alike if the outdated chapter were updated to include all the development controls for the new urban release areas as well as for Bangalow as a whole. Council sought a number of amendments to the draft new areas DCP which has returned to officers for further refinement. Most of the

Photo by Darren Pearson

resolved changes are commendable, such as encouraging rain gardens, landscape treatments to slow traffic and provision for community gardens. However, some of the contentious issues raised at community forums, such as vegetation buffers on public land and small lot sizes, were not addressed.

An interesting aspect is the requirement to provide bike and pedestrian access to open space areas to encourage public use of those areas. Another is that bike paths in the new areas must link up to Bangalow’s existing or proposed networks as delineated in the Bike Plan (Clause 3.6b). Council resolved that the bike path map should be increased in size from A4 to A3. This will show what little progress has been made on Bangalow’s bike and pedestrian paths and how little of the network is available for connection to the new urban release areas. Improvement of Bangalow’s infrastructure, such as its bike paths, to help cope with the increased population of these release areas is one of the high priority community concerns. There is still no indication of when or if Council plans to deliver Bangalow’s bike path, nor other infrastructure needs such as more parking.

USEFUL INFORMATION AND CONTACT NUMBERS AA Tues 5.30 Doug 6687 8668 Angling Club Outing 2nd Sat Ray 6687 1139 Aussie Rules Bill 6687 1485 Aussie Rules Junior Greg 6687 1231 Bangalow Community Alliance (BCA) Terry 6687 2525 Bangalow Markets monthly 4th Sun Jeff 6687 1911 Bangalow Freemasons 4th Monday 7.30pm Steve 6624 5547 Bridge Fri 12pm Brian 6687 2427 Cancer support 1st Wed 1-4pm Chris 6687 0004 Childcare Centre 7.45am-6pm Kerry 6687 1552 Cricket Club Anthony 0429 306 529 CWA 2nd Wed Sue 6687 2619 Garden Club 1st Wed Shirley 6687 1417 George the Snake Man George 0407 965 092 Groundforce Georgia 6629 1189 Historical Society/Museum/Tea Room Vivienne 6687 2183 Jazz-x-ercise Thurs 6pm Ann 6629 1041 Land/RiverCare 1st Sat working bee Liz 6687 1309 Lawn Bowls, Men Wed & Sat 1pm Ian 6687 2604 Lawn Bowls,Women Tues 9am Dot 6687 1246 Lions Club 2nd/4th Tues 7pm Roger 6687 0543 Mufti Bowls 3rd Sat 9am Lynne 6687 1823 Netball Club train 4.15 Thurs Rachel 6687 0402 Op Shop 10-3pm Sat 10-12 6687 2228 Parks Committee 3rd Tues 7.30pm Jan 6684 7214 Playgroup Tues 10am Jenni 6629 1740 Pony Club Kim Herwig 6687 8007 20

Pool Trust 3rd Wed Peta Poultry Club Hec Progress Association Liz Quilters 2nd,4th Thurs Leonie Red Cross monthly - 1st Fri Emily S355 C’mtee Heritage House Dawn Scouts Tues 6.30pm Alison Show Society Karen Soccer Club 2nd Mon 6pm Nick Social Golf every 2nd Sun Brian Sports Association 2nd Wed bi-monthly Brian Sporting Field bookings Nick St Vincent de Paul Thurs 10-11am/Catholic Hall Tennis Court Hire B&S Club Kaylene Writers Group 1st Thurs Ruth

6688 4236 6687 1322 6687 1195 6687 1453 6687 1038 6687 2442 6628 1024 6687 1033 6687 1607 6684 7444 6687 1024 6687 1607 6687 1944 6687 1235 6686 3008

VENUES A&I Hall Station St Michael 6687 1081 Anglican Hall Ashton St Russell 6687 1046 Bangalow Showgrd Moller Pavilion Karina 6687 1035 Sports/Bowling Club Byron St Lynne 6687 1235 Catholic Hall Deacon St George 6687 1969 Coorabell Hall Coolamon Scenic Simon 6684 2888 Newrybar Hall Newrybar Village Kay 6687 1324 RSL Hall Station St Charlotte 6687 2828 Scout Hall Showgrounds Jenny 6687 2047 Heritage House Deacon St Dawn 6687 2442 BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

o n T H E B OO k S H E L F

The Raven’s Heart Jesse Blackadder

Historical fiction is not normally my thing. But Jesse Blackadder (a talented author living in the Byron Shire) has written a captivating account of a fictional protagonist, Alison Blackadder, during the short but treacherous times of Mary Queen of Scots. The novel, inspired by the author’s trip to Scotland in 2004 and her own family connection to the Blackadder clan, takes us on a journey of intrigue and deception, loyalty and treason until its conclusion with the execution of William Blackadder who was hanged, drawn and quartered in 1567 by order of the Lords of the Secret Council. Our protagonist has lived her life (mostly disguised as a boy and later in her life disguised as a young man) with the belief that her father William Blackadder is the true heir to Blackadder Castle at Berwickshire. Alison Blackadder has endeared herself to the queen as one of her ladies-in-waiting and eventually as a loyal confidant. Alison’s loyalty is rewarded with the Queen’s promise of the return of Blackadder Castle to the Blackadder family. But, as the Queen’s tenuous hold on the throne ensues, Alison discovers documents

that cast doubt on the validity of her claim to Blackadder Castle. This novel is a fascinating insight into the world of Lords and Nobility and the life and times of Mary Stuart. It’s a time of double dealing, adultery, homosexuality, syphilitic kings and ever changing alliances. Jesse writes an exciting story, maintains the underlying

Fertile Footy Fathers In August last year, Heartbeat ran a story on the ‘Fertile Footy Fathers’ – six local men who formed a team for the Summer 6s soccer in Bangalow. They discovered they were all ‘pregnant’ and decided to write a book on their experiences with the subsequent births and fatherhood experiences.

Our Heartbeat story followed on from the Byron Writers Festival and its ‘Pitch session’, where aspiring writers pitch a summary of their proposed book to a panel of publishers. The ‘Footy Fathers’ were a hit in this session and three different publishers approached them with expressions of interest. Since

plot extremely well and provides a terrific conclusion to a most enjoyable read. Jesse will be at Bookworms & Papermites (aka Bangalow Newsagency) on Saturday 12 March from 8am to sign your copy. So once you have finished at the Farmer’s Market come on over to the Newsagency and say hello. Carolyn Adams, Bookworms & Papermites

then, Heartbeat was pleased to hear that they have signed a contract and worked hard on their book which is to be published this year for Father’s Day. We look forward to reporting on a successful launch later in the year. Brian Sundstrom

Bangalow Cellars 39 Byron St, Bangalow  ph:

6687 1262

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Great weekly specials

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la vida local

Bangalow Public School

Mrs Mara Timms

Mr Barry Spry

Bangalow Public School has hit the ground running in 2011, with the classes already formed and students producing quality work across all Key Learning Areas. We look forward to an exciting time this year, with special events planned in PDHPE and

Ms Andrea McLean

Creative Arts. Introducing our new teachers: Mrs Mara Timms: Mara comes to Bangalow PS with vast experience, having been teaching since 1984. She began her career in Brewarrina before moving to Coffs

Harbour, then Corindi and has taught at Evans River K-12 School since 2001. Mara has a special interest in teaching the early years of schooling, and enjoys drawing and graphic design. Mr Barry Spry: Barry comes to our school on a teacher exchange with Ms Monty. He began his career in 1991 with eight years at Balranald where he met his future wife. He has taught at Mullumbimby since 2000. Barry brings a wide range of skills with him, and is the District, Zone and Regional Convenor of PSSA AFL. He enjoys golf and AFL and spending time with his boys. Ms Andrea McLean: Andrea lived in Japan for three years and was an ESL teacher in Japan, Korea, Thailand and India. She moved to the North Coast in 2004, and has taught at Ocean Shores, Crabbes Creek and Byron Bay. Andrea likes to surf and cook. Peter Flannery

Sandi Dean Music Scholarship

The winners of the 2011 Sandi Dean Music Scholarships are 14 year-old David Krippner and his brother 12 year-old Michael Krippner of Coopers Shoot. The boys attend Byron Bay High School and the scholarships will enable them to attend the prestigious Sunwater and Stanwell Music School in

Scout News

The Bangalow Scout Leaders have another exciting year planned for the scout troop. Firstly they will be taking part in the Cancer Council’s Relay For Life this month at the Bangalow Showground. This will be an easy camp for those new to scouts. They will be selling popcorn and running activities such as the tug-of-war to help raise money for this great cause. The next camp in April will

Rockhampton during April 2011. While both are very proficient in piano/keyboard, Michael also plays guitar and drums and David plays classical guitar. The director of the music school is Paul Dean, Artistic Director of the Bangalow Music Festival and now Director of the

Australian National Academy of Music. The scholarships are funded jointly by the Bangalow Lions Club and the Bangalow Chamber of Commerce and are named in honour of Sandi Dean, a much loved community member and tireless worker for the Bangalow Lions. Michael Malloy

be at Potters Farm near Bangalow followed up with a Region Rally in May. The rally is a competition camp where the scouts skills will be pitted against the rest of the region’s scout troops. Bailey Grant and Mason Brown attended the State Cub Scout Cubaree in January as activity helpers for the cubs – and from all reports did the Bangalow Scouts proud. They

were presented with two certificates: one from the State Commisioner for Cub Scouts and our regional Cub Scout Commisioner. The ‘Try Joey/Cub Scouts’ four-week program is continuing. Joey Scouts are girls and boys aged six and seven, while Cub Scouts are eight to 10 1/2 year olds. Please call Jenny Holden for more information on 6687 2047. Lisa Sharpe

NOW SE

LLING

2011 • DON’T MISS OUT! Directory deadline: May 13.

Email updates, changes or new listings to: jannellestein@gmail.com or use a “directory listing form” from the Bangalow Post Office. • All advertising queries - Sue Holm on ph: 0419 441 556 Ad Booking deadline: April 18.

MARCH 22 22

2011

17 BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

LA VIDA LOCAL So much a sign of summer! Lennox Head team congratulate each other for getting the last Bangalow batsman (Hamish Guest) out. His team mate Sebastian Gleeson-Power is on the left. Bangalow Under 12s won the match and are heading towards being in the semi finals. Photo by Lisa Sharpe

Relay for Life

Once again the Byron Shire Relay for Life is upon us with only a few weeks left to get your teams in and registered. Held in Bangalow this year, at the Showgrounds for the first time since 2007, it is set to be a fantastic event. We’ve had a great response with plenty of teams having already registered. This year’s Relay for Life has been organised by a group of local volunteers on behalf of the Cancer Council. It will be held on the 12/13 March with the opening ceremony on Saturday 12 March at 3pm. If you are a cancer survivor, a carer, supporting friend, loved ones, or simply wanting to make a difference, come along and enjoy the event and participate in the Survivors walk, Candlelight Hope ceremony and much more.

MARCH 2011 MARCH 2011

Some Byron Shire residents have already shown their community spirit by participating in some of the team events that have been held over the past year in the lead up to the Relay for Life and contributed to the $13,943 that has already been raised.

We urge all those who have been involved in previous years, and people who have never experienced it, to rally the troops, gather your family, friends, co-workers and class mates to form your own team. Early Bird registration fees are $15 per person up until the 4 March. All registration fees from 5 March will be $20. As quoted by the chairperson of the first ever Byron Shire Relay for Life committee, Kaye Hall: “We in Byron Shire are indeed fortunate in being able to hold our inaugural Relay for Life in the picturesque Bangalow Showground. Let’s all work together and bring this magic quality to our Relay.” More info: Susan Tsicalas, 6684 1188, or Liz Parks, 6687 1195, or website http://relay. cancercouncil.com.au/2011/byron_shire_2011

th o iw n etralrku mo u r g o s s ip c h i t c h a t w sp

Christmas

March.

Following the disappointment of the cancellation of the Christmas Eve Carnival due to appalling weather conditions, the show will go on with a mini carnival on Saturday 19 March starting from 5.30pm. There will be street performers in Station Street and stage acts in the A&I Hall. The RSL Hall will be a special place for the littlies and the SK8 boarders might even give us a demo. Come and enjoy the legendary Bangalow spirit at this free family-friendly event. Confirmed performers include the Space Cowboy, Joel Salom, Suzy Leigh, The Scarlett School, Lifeline, the Samba Blisstas and more. Be there! Michael Malloy

of this for $20 donation at the door. To prepurchase tickets, go to Design Bank who are also offering a $100 voucher. Among other kind sponsors are: Reflections of Byron; Heart of Byron; Annabelle McLisky Yoga; Mish Mash Soap; You’re Fired (Sue Buckle Ceramics/Classes); Goddess of Babylon; and Artists donating paintings (so far) for auction include Marika Bryant; Mark Venice; and Anne Leon. Marika Bryant

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Garden Club; SK8 Park meeting

Writers Group

Reconnnecting to Country lunch

Federal Flood Fundraiser

Kevin Palmer at CWA

Relay for Life opening Jesse Blackadder book signing BCCC Boogie Night

Writers Group

Christmas Eve in March

Start of Seniors Week Cowboy Cup

Tintenbar Dance

State Election CWA Handicraft Day

Wildlife Carer training Bangalow Market

ADFAS Farmers’ Markets 5, 12, 19, 26, 31 APRIL

ANZAC Day HB deadlines 13 (Ads) 20 (Copy)

After the Flood – A Federal Fundraiser.

Come and support our efforts on Saturday 5 March, at the Federal Hall. Locals have banded together to create an evening of entertainment, prizes, raffles and STUFF. Bands will play (Mick McHugh, Mal and the Longboarders, Colin George, It’s Probably Us, ENRGY and more) and there will be food and frivolity. All

Ian Oelrichs OAM. Congratulations to Coopers Shoot resident, Ian Oelrichs, for being awarded an OAM on Australia Day for services to tourism. His contributions range from tourism planning to advising on eco-tourism.

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• VIP Limousine Airport Transfers

Ballina from $80 Gold Coast from $200 Brisbane from $400 Lismore $130 newspapers & bottled water supplied

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www.bangalowlimousines.com.au 24 24

BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT