Bangalow Heartbneat March 2013

Heartbeat Bangalow’s

free l march 2013 No.167 l Celebrating the Life and Times of the local Community

Time for a little mellow fruitfulness The rain and wild winds that have lashed the area, bringing destruction to farmers and householders, will hopefully soften as we head into autumn.

See our report on the effects of the weather and how to survive it on pages 12 & 13.

www.heartbeat.net.au

editorial Once again the weather gods sent severe storms to disrupt our production schedule and, more importantly, create further damage in the region. See pages 12-13 for coverage of the January storm and hints on how to survive the next, which has already happened. We hope for the best and apologise to those advertisers and contributors whose March events may not have been given adequate notice.

This is a very green issue, after

• Any problem fixed fast • No call out fees • Great deals on new PC’s

all, lots of rain means lots of green.

Not just St Patrick’s Day. Our journalists and contributors bring you up to speed on koala habitats, the Bangalow CSG-Free movement (note – volunteers still needed for the street surveys – see p.24), environmental weeds, Landcare and growing, and eating, herbs and vegies.

There are profiles of several locals, another streetscape and lots more. I hope you enjoy reading this issue, if you have power.

Di Martin

meet the team

t: 6687 5573 or 6681 5575

Di Martin Editor (with canine pal)

“RIGHT ADVICE” Whether it is SELLING or RENTING or any PROPERTY needs...

6687 2479 Visit our new website & read comments from recent clients who are happy with “THE RIGHT ADVICE” they received!

www.bangalowrealestate.com.au

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Di has a background in education at secondary, adult and tertiary levels.

Along the way she spent many years working on aid projects in Indonesia and Laos, finishing with management of international educational programs at RMIT and Monash Universities in Melbourne. Now settled in Bangalow, she first volunteered for Heartbeat as Advertising Coordinator and has now ‘graduated’ to Editor. Di also teaches Tai Chi and Chi Kung. “Joining the Heartbeat team early on in my time in Bangalow helped me to settle in and become part of the great community that is Bangalow. Having dogs also helped.” www.heartbeat.net.au PO Box 132 Bangalow NSW 2479 Editors: Dianne Martin 6687 2592 Ruth Kirby Email: editors@heartbeat.net.au Advertising: Janelle Saunders www.heartbeat.net.au Advertising: Janelle Email: advertising@heartbeat.net.au PO Box 132 Bangalow Saunders 0422 069 861 Production: allieleo@bigpond.net .au

B A N G A L OW ’ S H E A R T B E AT

For the

Janelle Saunders Advertising Coordinator

bangalow’s heartbeat

Janelle is our energetic advertising coordinator, joining Heartbeat in January 2012. “Working with the wonderful Heartbeat team has given me a very special insight into the unique and diverse community we have. Every day I wake up grateful that after 18 years in the Byron Shire I have ended up living in Bangalow”. Janelle may be recognisable to some as the bubbly one behind the counter at Design Bank.

She also runs her own Social Media Content Management Business, Social Neon. Janelle’s answer to sanity in her busy schedule is “a good laugh, a good dance and a very long sleep, occasionally”.

Editorial Team: Judy Baker, Marika Bryant, Tony Hart, Lyn Plummer, Brian Sundstrom, Christobel Munson Sub Editor: Helen Wilson Distribution: Bangalow Post Office, Brian Sundstrom, Peter Bradridge Web Pages: Wendy Gray DISCLAIMER. Benny Saunders,Accounts: Sally Rob Campbell This newsletter is published by Bangalow’s Heartbeat Incorporated PO Box 132 NSW 2479.

Schofield, AndreaChariman: Sturgeon, Neville Maloney Hon. Editors Dianne Martin, Ruth Kirby, Hon Sec/

NSW 2479 advertising@heartbeat.

Brian Sundstrom Public Officer Neville Maloney. Membership is open Editors: DianneDISCLAIMER. Martin net.au Distribution: Bangalow P.O., This news-letter is published

by Bangalow’s Heartbeat Incorporated Boxpostal 132 district.

NSW The 2479. to all adult residents of PO the 2479 6687 2592 Ad Production: Allie Leo Brian Sundstrom, Peter opinions expressed by individual not Hon Editors Dianne Martin; Ruth Kirby, Hon Sec/Public Officer Helen Wilson.

Membership is contributors open to allare adult Ruth Kirby Design: Niels Arup Bradridge, Neil McKenzie necessarily shared by the Editors and other members residents of the ‘2479’ postal district. The opinions contributors not necessarily the Association committee. are While every reasonEmail: editors@heartbeat.

Editorial team: Judy Baker, Website: Joannaexpressed Wilkinson by ofindividual shared by theDon Editors and other membersAccounts: of the Association While every reasonable effort is made able effort is made to publish accurate information, net.au Brown,Marika Bryant, Rob Campbellcommittee.

Bangalow’s Heartbeat Inc. no responsibility to Schofield publish accurate information, Heartbeat Inc. accepts no responsibility foraccepts statements made or Cover photo: Sally Tony Hart, Lyn Plummer,Bangalow’s Chairman: Neville Maloney

opinions expressed.

for statements made or opinions expressed.

BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

local figures

Tony Heeson (left) and Brian Grant (right) showing author Brian Sundstrom the Lions BBQ site.

A Men’s Shed for Bangalow?

I’d of course heard of the Men’s Shed organisation, knew something of its aims, but had little idea how it operates. I was therefore pleased to hear of plans for one in Bangalow and this chance to find out more. Our local Lions Club is leading the planning, particularly through members Brian Grant and Tony Heeson. They are quietly confident of success and provided the following information.

The Australia Men’s Shed Association was born, with Federal government support, after a national men’s health conference in 1995. The first shed followed soon after, at Lane Cove and there are now nearly 900 in Australia, including a new one about to be built at Mullumbimby. Sheds take many forms but are basically a meeting place

and workshop. The idea has also spread to several other countries, particularly New Zealand and Ireland. The main aim is the health benefits from groups of men meeting regularly and chatting while they work on useful community projects. The spin-off is of course the many projects they contribute to.

Sheds also encourage social activities and friendships and provide health information to members. A number of studies have been published showing increased length and quality of life for participants.

Locally, Brian Grant and Tony Heeson have made considerable progress with the idea. They are working with the Federal Men’s Shed body. On condition this support is formalised, the Bangalow Showground Trust has offered use of the building where

the Lions BBQ runs at show time. “It already has three-phase power and water and we would look to improve this structure as a first project, then add a shed”. Tony said.

“Through the Federal organisation, very economical sheds can be obtained via a sponsor, Fairdinkum Sheds.”

“The buildings in the Showground would be owned by the Trust, but our Lions Club would oversee the running to ensure it is open to all and has appropriate activities,” Brian added. “We have also had encouraging support from Council.”

Anyone interested at this early stage, particularly to assist planning, should contact Brian Grant 6687 2833. For general information go to www.mensshed.org

Brian Sundstrom

Bangalow

The Hinterland Specialists We're delighted to welcome back Tracey Wild - a valued member of the Elders Bangalow Sales Team.

Tracey brings extensive local knowledge, enthusiasm & a determination to get the best results for her clients.

19a Byron Street, Bangalow www.eldersbangalow.com.au

6687 1500 MARCH MARCH 2013 2013

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the environment

koalas in our community Mark Wilson, Trees Officer for Friends of the Koala, recently gave a very interesting talk to members of the Bangalow & District Garden Club. Did you know that in 1927, when shooting of koalas for their pelts was banned, 800,000 skins were sold in Queensland in the month before the ban took effect?

And now there are probably only 80,000 koalas left in the whole of Australia. Koalas are widely distributed across the Northern Rivers although their numbers vary depending on available habitat. The greatest threats to their survival are habitat loss and fragmentation, disease, cars and dog attacks.

The recent cyclonic weather has focused our attention on trees. Damage to commercial tree crops has been extensive but think also of damage to Mark Wilson, Trees Officer, Friends of the Koala with ‘Stuffy’ trees that are vital to support resident koala colonies. Koalas are very Gum and Blackbutt and non-eucalypts such territorial, live in small groups and are fussy as Paperbarks and Sheoaks. It’s thus very eaters. Young koalas will only eat the type hard to relocate displaced koalas. Adults of eucalypt their mothers weaned them need about twenty mature trees each so a onto. For example they won’t eat leaves of colony of ten koalas would need about 200 a Forest Red Gum if they’ve been weaned trees in their territory. Hand-reared joeys onto Swamp Mahogany and will even can be trained to eat a particular species refuse leaves on a Lismore Tallowood if it so they can be released where that species tastes different to the Bangalow Tallowood grows. Zoos generally display hand-reared they were raised on. These three eucalypt animals rather than wild-caught koalas so species are the primary food trees of local that feeding is not a problem.

When their habitat is destroyed or koalas but they will eat some secondary species such as Flooded Gum, Sydney Blue fragmented by storm damage or clearing,

koalas suffer stress and can be susceptible to disease or attack by dogs as they try to find new food sources and shelter.

How can you tell if a koala is sick? One sign is the coat colour: ‘Stuffy’, pictured with Mark, has a brown coat. This is a sign of a very old or sick koala as the coat should be grey. Brown staining on the rump, or crusty or puffy eyes, indicate disease such a Chlamydia. Phone Friends of the Koala 24 hour Rescue and Information Service on 6622 1233 if you find a sick or injured animal or one with a brown coat.

What else can you do to help koalas? The Friends give away free koala food trees to landholders in areas where koalas reside, encouraging plantings to link up the existing patches of remnant koala habitat to create more continuous corridors of food and shelter. You can also volunteer your time for rescuing, caring, leaf harvesting and nursery work. Donations are always welcome. Find the Friends of the Koala Care Centre in Rifle Range Road, next to Southern Cross University in Lismore. Last year the centre had about 300 koalas come into care, then released. The nursery attached gives away koala food trees and also sells native plants to raise funds. A full list of plants for sale can be downloaded from the website. For more information: www.friendsofthekoala.org.

Judy Baker

H O L I D AY I n A G R A C I O U S A pA Rt m e n t I n n O B L e pA L A z z O n O tA R n I C C H I in a stone sicilian village high in the m a d o n i e m o u n ta i n s

tA I L O R e D peRSOnAL JOURneYS I n S I C I LY tHeSICILIAnHOUSe.COm

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BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

Bangalow Landcare: the next step Liz Gander follows up on the article about finishing up the landcare group in last month’s Heartbeat It took a few weeks but there was some interest. For a town this size and with such a young population it was diappointing how little response there was, but some is better than none. If you missed the story, to recap briefly, Bangalow Landcare have virtually no active members left and will cease to exist without support from our community.

It has been decided to hold one last meeting to discuss our options as it seems the interested people are unclear of how and when to help. Everyone who has an interest is finding a way to keep this group

going is invited to attend. It is hoped that people who want to see this group continue in some capacity and are willing in help in some way will come along and share their ideas. There are ways to keep it alive without getting your hands dirty if that is what the new direction needs to be. It just means putting a dedicated fund raising team together and paying contractors to do the work.

The Patron to the Environment fundraising plan last year was successful to a degree but needed more of a driving force. This is one avenue. Despite recent

news about funding cuts to Landcare there are grants available but they take work and we need people who can manage these applications. Perhaps another new direction is to have just a big working bee each quarter for the whole community to attend to work on a particular site. We are open to ideas and trying hard to keep this alive. The more ideas the better so come and share them on the day.

The meeting is set for Monday, 11 March at 6 pm and will be held on the verandah of the Heritage House Tearoom.

Please call Liz on 6687 1309.

Towards a CSG-free Bangalow A crowd of more than 100 people attended the public meeting held on 12 February in the A&I Hall, to find out more about the upcoming Bangalow-resident survey.

Fowlers Lane resident, Alex Law, was the MC for the event, introducing guest speakers including Jo Immig, the National Toxic Network’s coordinator. Jo, whose particular field of interest is children’s health, outlined the scientific evidence proving the dangers of Coal Seam Gas mining.

Arriving late on the scene after dealing with a disastrous road collapse in Upper

Madeira vine in flower

Coopers Creek, Byron Shire Mayor Simon Richardson, gave a spirited account of the importance of “standing up and doing something” in support of movements such as CSG-Free Northern Rivers.

The coordinator of the Main Arm community survey, Maree Murffet, then outlined the way the surveys worked in her area, and the same formula will be followed for the five town areas of Bangalow and the four out-of-town areas. Area coordinators signed up on the night, and others signed up to do the door to door surveying.

Madeira vine aerial tubers

So if it hasn’t happened already, expect a knock on your door in the next few weeks.

Volunteer surveyors will be coming round every street to ask whether or not residents want their road or land to be Gasfield Free, but more surveyors are still needed.

Once the surveys have been completed and results tallied, the results will be announced. For further information, go to www.csgfreenorthernriver.org or www. csgfreebyronshire.org or phone Bangalow coordinator, Bianca Ferrari 6687 2511.

Christobel Munson

Madeira vine treatment

March of the Madeira Vine Judy Baker kicks off a new series on environmental weeds in our region with the dreaded Madeira vine.

March is the month when Madeira vine, Andredera cordifolia, is readily visible as it marches across the countryside.

It’s easy to recognise at the moment as it produces creamy-white perfumed flowers in tassels on vines covering the tops of trees and shrubs growing on roadsides, in parks and backyards. This vigorous climber is considered to be a major threat to rainforest remnants. The MARCH 2013

leaves are heart-shaped, light green and fleshy and the stems are brown. The vine reproduces from aerial and underground tubers. The aerial tubers will fall off and shoot if you pull the vine down from the host so it’s important to deal with the plant in the recommended way. Do not cut the stem. See the diagram (from the Big Scrub Rainforest Landcare Group booklet: Common Weeds of Northern

NSW Rainforests). Using a sharp knife, scrape one side of the stem only then paint the area immediately with 100% glyphosate. Spray ground infestations with 1:50 glyphosate. Bag any tubers or small hand-weeded vines in plastic and place in the sun to destroy. This is a very persistent weed, so regular followup is important to make sure you’ve eliminated it all.

Judy Baker 5

community noticeboard Bowlo news The Bowlo has an enthusiastic new board of locals, an inspiring and service-focused manager in Luke Wilson, some great entertainment booked and a commitment to making the club more family friendly.

It now has over 550 members.

A new feature is $10 lunches from Wednesday to Saturday and a weekly theme dinner will be announced soon. The members’ draw will return every Friday along with an extended set of raffles. Disco diva Lisa Hunt will play Friday, 1 March, 8pm, $20 or $25 at door.

Ukuleles practice Wednesdays, and Thursdays are for tango.

We’re open Tues 4-8pm, Wed/ Thurs 12-9pm, Fri/Sat 12-10pm and Sun 12-8pm. Hours can be extended to accommodate events.

Robin Osborne

Coffee for a cause Drink our local Zentveld’s coffee while raising money for cancer research! Zentvelds are holding a charity open day with roaster tours, latte art demos and prizes while fundraising for Relay for Life. Come to the plantation at 193 Broken Head Rd Newrybar on Saturday, 2 March from 8.30am till noon. Bec Zentveld The Byron shire Relay for Life event will be held on the Mullum rugby league football fields on 16 and 17 March.

Local community and business

groups are urged to enter, sponsor or join a team. Contact: emilyp@nswcc.org.au Eds

Samba-Blisstas The Samba-Blisstas will not be training on Tuesday nights in Bangalow anymore! The Bangalow community deserves a thank you for accepting the rumble every Tuesday for the past eight years or so. Bookings are now open for the only four week course for 2013 in Ballina, Kingscliff and Gold Coast from Monday, 4 March.

Look out for The SambaBlisstas in 2013 at The Billy Cart Derby and a return to the Xmas Carnival. More info call 0417 969 743 www.carnavaldrumming. com Paul Barrett

Food and Films On Monday, 4 March at 4pm, Sustain Northern Rivers will host a special twilight forum of food and films at the 7th Byron Bay International Film Festival, exploring how our community can make the most of the wonderful resources we have for growing, finding and enjoying local food.

The special event at the Byron Bay Community Centre will include a panel discussion, interspersed with short films, exploring the topics of growing food at home, reducing waste and the impacts of unsustainable mass production.

Panelists include Pam Brook (Brookfarm), Alison Drover (Fork in the Field), Sian Butt (The Beautiful Feast), and Dierk Kimler (Mandala Garden Products). The winner of the Byron Bay Film Festival’s Sustainable Shorts Award, sponsored by Sustain Northern Rivers, will also be announced and screened. Claire McGarry

Dog club Anyone interested in giving doggie an outing with mates while the owners have an adult chat with like-minded people, join us at the showgrounds every Thursday 4.30pm from 7 March.

Di Martin

An extra special senior Council is seeking nominations of local residents to be considered for the shire’s first Seniors Week Positive Ageing Award. If you know someone aged 60 or over who is actively involved in our community, provides a role model to inspire and encourage older people, challenges traditional assumptions about older people, and is making a difference to one or a number of people, we invite you to nominate that person for recognition.

Nominations close on Tuesday, 12 March and the award will be presented at the Mayor’s Morning Tea, one of the key events being

during Seniors Week (17-24 March 2013). Over 25 different events and activities will be held across the shire during the week.

For more information contact Karen Ingleman on 6626 7000.

BSC press release

Open garden An open garden will be held at 31 Grace Road, Bexhill from 10am until 4.30pm on 16 and 17 March. Cost is $7 and under 18s are free. Open Gardens Australia

New dentists’ open day New owners Eduarda and Fabio Miranda, along with the Bangalow Dental team, invite the Bangalow and surrounding community to their open day Saturday, 16 March from 10 til noon. Share nibbles and drinks, see kids entertainment and hear local one-man band Juzzie Smith. All welcome. Alison Carter

Newrybar Dinner /Movie Newrybar Hall in partnership with Travelling Flicks presents Searching for Sugar Man at Newrybar Cinema Saturday, 16 March at 7pm.

A great night out in a historic village hall, book a table and come with your friends (BYO). Tickets $30/head, pre-event bookings recommended to ensure seats. Tickets from Barebones (Bangalow), Driftlab (Newrybar), and Talisman (Lennox Head). Or direct via payment to Newrybar

Heritage House Tearoom open 10am to 3pm Wednesday - Friday Booking (p) 6687 2183

RF Byrne Earthmoving Construction & Paving

 Access Roads  Plant Hire - grader etc  Driveway & Car Parks

 Erosion Control  Hot Mix & Bitumen Seal Phone

Dick on 6687 8418 or 0412 831 944 549 Friday Hut Rd Brooklet 2479

66

♦ Pots ♦ Garden plants & pavers ♦ Quality Garden Soils ♦ Bulk Potting Mixes ♦ Compost & Mulches ♦ Sand & Gravel 225 Lismore Rd, Bangalow Ph: 6687 1520 Robyn & Ian Black - Proprietors BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

Community Hall BSB 032591 Account 236213 and indicate name. Tickets may be available at the door unless sold out.

Enquiries: 6687 8443 or newrybarhall@gmail.com. More info: www.travellingflicks.com This event is a fundraiser for Newrybar Hall.

Ian Duncan

CWA update The CWA country of study this year is Morocco. Milton from Oriental Carpets in Bangalow spoke to us on the history of rugs and showed us a sample of his gorgeous rugs. We are busy working on handmade Easter crafts for sale. CWA meets regularly every Wednesday for company and craft. Once a month, on the third Monday, we have evening craft from 6pm8pm. Hilary Wise

Technology and Power expo for seniors A very special free event on Tuesday, 19 March at 9.45am at the Tintenbar Hall for Seniors Week 2013 – a Technology Assistance and Power Saving Information Expo. The first session is being hosted by the IT teachers and students of Alstonville High School. They invite you to come along and receive one-on-one training to assist you with your mobile or iPhone, your computer, laptop or tablet. A light morning tea will follow and the second

session will commence around 11.15am. It is being presented

by Essential Energy, Ballina Shire Council and the State Government. We will learn how to go about becoming more efficient with our power use and, most importantly, how to save money on our power bills. Please ring Marg on 6687 8033 for more information or to arrange transport. TinCAN (Tintenbar Community Aid Network)

Netball Club news The start date for 2013 season is Saturday, 23 March. Please come along and join in the fun. Net-Set-Go 6-7 years; Netta 7-11yrs; Netball 10-17yrs; Seniors 18+ For more information please call Grescha 0439 487 169 or go to brunswickbyronnetball.com. au/home. Netball: a game for everyone.

Grescha Brewer

Poultry Club The Bangalow Poultry Club is back in action after six months of recess when all members were busy breeding show winners for the 2013 show season. The club meets on the second Sunday of each month at 2pm in the poultry pavilion.

The ‘big poultry auction’ is on Sunday 21 April at the Showgrounds.

The Annual Poultry Show will be held on 25 May in the poultry pavilion with around 1000 birds

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

posing for the grand champion.

If you need more information on anything go to the web site bangalowpoultryclub.com.au

Glenda McKenzie

Ethics coordinator and teachers An ethics coordinator and ethics teachers are wanted for Bangalow Public School. Ethics is provided as an alternative to non-religious studies. These are volunteer positions. If you have some free time and would like to be involved in the school community, please call the Bangalow Public School on 6687 1434.

Bev Dhnaram

Our skatepark

Construction on the $180,000 skatepark, to be located between the sporting fields, should begin in April and be completed mid year. The project includes landscaping, furniture, shade structure, water bubbler and footpath. BS press release

Billy Cart Derby Get your carts ready or you’ll miss the fun! Our annual Billy Cart Derby is on again so highlight Sunday, 19 May on your calendars.

Tony Heeson

CAWI CAWI provides care and finds homes for unwanted or surrendered animals. We also rehabilitate orphaned or sick

animals without owners and promote responsible pet ownership. CAWI is run by volunteers and is currently trying to raise money to build Byron Animal Adoption Centre. Our main source of income is from our Op Shop and we are always in need of household goods and furniture to sell in our store.

We provide a pick up service so please call 6685 1444 if you can help. Check our website for more information and how to make cash donations.

Elizabeth Newhouse

Hospital Auxiliary Byron Bay Hospital Auxiliary is a fundraising group of volunteers who meet in the Hospital Group Room on the third Monday of the month at 2pm. Every cent raised is used to purchase equipment for the Hospital and Byron Shire Community Health, most recently for the Palliative Care Nurses based at the Bangalow Community Health Centre. If you are interested in joining the Auxiliary or volunteering a couple of hours a month in the Hospital Coffee Shop please phone the Secretary on 6685 3162 for more details.

Jan Lang

Red Cross Report The next meeting is on Friday, 5 April at 10am in the RSL Hall.

All welcome. There’s a street stall fundraiser on Saturday, March 2 from 8am.

Dot Gill

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MARCH MARCH 2013

2013

77

local happenings

welcome to peter mortimore Peter, a well-known Australian artist, has accepted the role of Acting Acting President - Peter Mortimore - peter@petermortimore.

President of the Bangalow Chamber of Commerce. Peter and com; Windhorse Gallery; Treasurer - John Hudson - hudmaster@ Carolyn are the owners of the unique Windhorse Gallery in Byron hotmail.com; Accountant Bangalow; Vice President - Matthew Ridderhof - matthew.ridderhof@gmail.com; Street Bangalow.

Peter Mortimore and Mark Young Foodworks Bangalow; Secretary - Meredith We feel confident it is back to business Barry - meredith@baskbeach.com; www. as usual for the Bangalow Chamber of baskbeach.com Bangalow; Executive Commerce and the future is looking bright.

Member - Eve Heath - eheath@bigpond.net.

The February meeting was very well au; Heath’s Old Wares Bangalow attended our guest speaker for the evening We welcome all members, past members, was Mr Mark Young - Business Development business owners, managers and interested Manager Northern Rivers NSW Business residents to our meetings. They are held Chamber. Mark spoke on Entitlements to the 4th Thursday of the month at 5.30pm at Members of the NSW Business Chamber, Bangalow Museum and Tea House. The next specifically the 19% discount on electricity our financial members are eligible to access as Bangalow Chamber Chamber meeting: Thursday, 28 March, 5.30pm, Bangalow Museum & Tea House. For any enquiries or to join the committee phone: Eve of Commerce is a member of the NSW Business Chamber.

Heath 6687 2222 or email: admin@bangalow.biz.

The Bangalow Chamber of Commerce current executive is:

BCCC Mega Garage Sale!

Are you in the market for fabulous pre loved treasures? Then read on! As part of our yearly fundraising, the Bangalow Community Children’s Centre (BCCC) will again host the ‘Rumble in the Jumble’ bumper community garage sale on its grounds on Saturday, 16 March from 8 11am. Parents of the centre will be setting

up shop to sell their wares and the entire community is welcome to attend. You can expect to find books, clothing, children’s clothes, children’s toys, household items, crafty things, bric-a,brac, collectables and other terrific used wares. There will be deals galore.

If you choose to make a purchase

THE BIZ Bangalow’s Heartbeat welcomes recent new advertisers: C&C Homemakers – under new ownership

or two you’ll be helping our beloved not-for-profit community centre meet its annual fundraising target as all stall holders will be donating a portion of their takings straight back to BCCC. Be sure to come early to catch the bargains of the day! Where: BCCC, 1 Raftons Road, Bangalow Joanna Wilkinson

new ownership Windhorse Gallery -exhibiting exclusive artists Vertex –Your local arborist

Monique Feain - Dance Lab- Dance Classes Skin Solutions- Beauty therapy Bangalow Dental – under

McGrath Real Estate -Tim Miller is your local contact Jive Lounge- now at the Bangalow Bowlo

BEESLEY & HUGHES

Open 8am5.15pm

LAWYERS of BANGALOW

We provide a confidential, competent and prompt legal service with sensitivity appropriate to the current economic circumstances.

Owen Hughes: Principal Solicitor Cassandra Bennett: Solicitor

16 Byron Street, Bangalow

www.beesleyandhughes.com.au

Ph: 6687 1717

HUDSON MANAGEMENT SERVICES 

Accountants

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Taking care of local businesses for over 10 years

Contact John HUDSON for an initial consultation 85 BYRON ST, BANGALOW  PH: 6687 2960 88

BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

local happenings

adfas goes to kyoto On March 4 ADFAS (the Association of Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Societies) presents a lecture on ‘The City of Kyoto and the Cult of Beauty’, by Pauline Chakamkjian. Truly one of the most beautiful cities in the world, this is an overview of the most stunning monuments and sites of Kyoto, the old capital of Japan. Kyoto not only has magnificent shrines, temples and gardens but is also famous for its array of marvellous, colourful and seasonal festivals.

ADFAS is a group of thirty-four societies with over 6000 members in Australia. ADFAS Byron Bay and Districts presents eight evening talks throughout the year: entertainment and enjoyment for anyone interested in the arts, history and culture. Our first event of the year will be a champagne opening to the new season on March 4 at 5.30pm, in the A&I Hall, Bangalow. Guests are welcome at $25 per lecture. Membership for 2013 is $125 for the eight talks, plus some surprises. Guest fee for members of other societies is $5. For more information contact Hans Mol: 6687 8293 or myconnexxions@bigpond.com.

Hans Mol

Bangalow Bowlo seeks business partners Bangalow Bowlo has implemented the next phase of its business plan, placing an advertisement in national and local newspapers seeking expressions of interest and proposals for a development partnership, and/or management concession, and/or any other business proposal that will advance the Club.

The Board’s acting chair, Tony Hart, said, “Our vision is to rejuvenate the club by establishing a sporting, entertainment and cultural centre for Bangalow in the heart of the Byron Shire. The Centre could provide a focal point for the community and include options such as sporting activities and clubs; an auditorium for

music, entertainment and cultural events; a restaurant, cafe, bar and beer garden; accommodation for visiting sporting groups; facilities for children.”

Since its reopening in April last year, the club has experienced challenging trading and financial circumstances. It is clearly not out of the woods yet. The Board is experimenting with an entrepreneurial approach to refresh this important community asset which offers huge future potential. Hence expressions of interest are now being sought to develop a partnership that could attract new members and clientele and meet the needs of the changing local demographic.

One of the club’s unrealized assets is the block of land on its eastern edge, about which discussions are already underway with council in relation to what could be constructed there, its possible use as a carpark and the potential for rezoning.

Tony said the club is in need of a creative plan coupled with engaged and capable proponents who, while remaining sensitive and responsive to the membership and community needs, are able to put the Club on a sound commercial footing. Expressions of interest closed late February and Heartbeat understands at least a dozen information packages have been requested.

Robin Osborne

tim miller

Integrity. Knowledge. Results.

Contact our area specialist Tim Miller to find out why your property is worth more with McGrath.

T M E W MARCH 2013

FEBRUARY 2013

02 6618 3331 0411 757 425 timmiller@mcgrath.com.au mcgrath.com.au 9 9

the person behind the job

Beating the Odds This month’s person behind the job is Richard Rombouts, Bangalow’s newsagent. Don Brown reports.

Richard’s taste in books is changing, If you don’t start life with a silver spoon in your mouth, it helps to have a strong heart probably influenced by Carolyn’s love and a fighting spirit. Richard was one of of reading. Once mainly a reader of the children born with physical problems detective fiction and action books he is caused by the sedative drug, thalidomide. now branching out into more serious He managed to overcome the physical works. Similar changes are taking place deficits quite early and to make the fullest in his movie and television choices. He possible use of the things he had. After primary school in Sydney, at the age of 13 he moved with the family to a farm at Gulargambone.

This was a happy time as the life of the farm offered many activities which called on all his inventiveness and persistence. After completing Year 10, he went to Canberra in 1979 to complete his senior years, then, returning to the farm, he extended his qualifications in wool classing and as a powder monkey. He also worked on the farm before buying his own farm in 1980. Like so many small holdings the farms were always battling to stay afloat.

When the farms were sold in 1989, the families moved to Byron Bay where his father set up in the building industry and Richard became a partner, handling Richard Rombouts Photo by Judy Baker the estimates, supervising construction and other admin tasks. He came to Bangalow in 2004 and particularly enjoyed the dark Swedish he and his partner, Carolyn, who is an avid series, The Bridge and Wallander with their reader and book reviewer for Heartbeat, complex characterisation and intricate plots. In music, he remains a devoted rock bought the newsagency.

Richard is keen on maintaining good and roller.

Richard and Carolyn have been physical condition. He enjoyed several together for thirteen years. They share the seasons of football with Lennox and Byron demanding workload of the agency with teams before a serious bout of cellulitis put its early morning starts and long hours. an end to that. In typical Richard fashion he Although there are disadvantages in any job compensated by taking up lawn bowls and which offers services seven days per week, yogalates and by regular visits to the gym. the daily interaction with the customers is a The demands of the job, including long great compensation.

When he first arrived periods on his feet in the shop, make fitness he knew few people, but the newsagency a necessity.

is a great place to get to know people and customers quickly became friends.

Richard’s daughter by a previous marriage has recently completed her degree in Social Work in Victoria. She now lives and works in Wodonga. Finding time to visit is always difficult as are holidays with Carolyn. Later this year however, a trip to New Zealand will be a chance for the two of them to share some private time.

Like Rita Cowled and Susie Boyle, who appeared in previous articles of this series, his key word when talking about Bangalow is ‘community’. He quickly realised that this is a community in a very real sense, a place of friendship and support in tough times and widespread involvement in community activities.

While he knows about the various political groupings in the town, Richard avoids partisan affiliations. He finds they can place unnecessary strains on otherwise friendly relations. He does admire the spirit and enthusiasm of the participants and has good relations with all of them.

When looking to the future, Richard sees new challenges ahead. The agency is up for sale, awaiting an appropriate buyer. But until that sale takes place, there will still be the same friendly reception that both newcomers and long term residents experience.

To start life with physical disabilities must seem so unfair, and to experience the occasional cruelty of children and thoughtless adults could make someone bitter and despairing. Though he has faced these challenges, at no time during our talk did Richard show any self pity. I really admired his enthusiasm for life, his sense of fun, and his concentration on positives.

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wild weather

Damaged blueberry netting

Damaged macadamias

FARMERS CLEANING UP AFTER CYCLONE Cyclone Oswald certainly gave us all three days of very strong winds over the Australia Day weekend. Fortunately Bangalow township seems to have escaped relatively lightly. The local SES says there were lots of trees down and plenty of work for them but no major incidents in town and only minor power outages. As we townies grumble while we continue resurrecting our gardens, spare a thought for the farmers around here, many of whom were seriously affected. The winds were consistently from the NE, the aspect chosen for many tree and vegetable crops, but the most exposed to this event.

Macadamias are of course this area’s biggest agricultural industry and many farms were hard hit. Large numbers of mature trees were ripped right out or seriously damaged. Once the orchard canopy was broken, the winds really got in, sometimes to whole rows, (see pic of 30-year-old trees down). While aspect was a major determinant of damage, tree spacing and pruning had some influence on letting the wind into the canopy. The tree damage is

serious enough, but large quantities of nut were blown down, only a month or so off harvest. This fallen green nut is worthless but still has to be picked up to clear the way for harvesting of the mature nuts.

Apart from Macadamias, there was considerable damage to some of the other horticulture enterprises in our area. The local Farmers Market growers told me of bananas being particularly hard hit (50% of trees lost on one farm north of Bangalow) and also citrus and paw paw amongst the worst affected. Avocado trees seemed largely OK, but quite a lot of fruit dropped. Many vegetables in the open were shredded.

While those in glasshouses or under netting fared better, some were still badly affected due to damaged structures allowing wind in. One new glasshouse was blown off its foundation and another I heard of had a panel blown out, then the wind flattened all the trellises inside. Some areas had several days without power.

This affected cool rooms and in one case, mushrooms in a controlled environment

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shed. There were many power surges damaging electrical equipment, catching out even some with backup generators.

On the positive side, there has been a big mango crop, many picked just before the winds and a lot blown down but useable.

One market stallholder managed to get three year’s supply frozen down for their ice blocks and fruit flats. I was also pleased to hear that the Hayters Hill free-range chooks were OK. In a big wind some years ago, one of their ‘chook mobiles’ was blown away along with many hens. This time they were securely anchored with guy ropes.

Coffee, while still affected, seems to have been one of the most resilient crops.

Resilient is also an apt term for most of the farmers I’ve spoken to: “We are in a climatesusceptible industry and just have to get on with it, replant, tidy up and pull through,” is a common attitude. Yes, that is farming, but this event was quite a significant one. If you see some markets and stalls less stocked than usual, you will understand why.

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wild weather

life without power: be prepared

The wild winds and rains that rampaged through our region recently caused huge destruction to the landscape with commercial and domestic trees uprooted, crops lost and properties isolated. Cleaning up continues. On the domestic front blackouts were widespread, making us realise how dependent we are on an uninterrupted supply of electricity. Without power many of us can’t cook, get drinking water, or even flush the toilet.

When a big storm breaks, tune into the weather forecast. Raging winds will bring down trees onto power lines. Like the Boy Scouts, let’s make sure we are prepared.

Here’s a checklist to lessen the pain.

Water If you suspect power cuts ahead, fill the bath with water for flushing the toilet and washing in. Keep a supply of 2-litre bottles filled with drinking water in the cupboard, also useful to clean your teeth.

If you have no bath or are slow to realise electricity is about to blow, you could utilise a giant heavy-duty black plastic pickle jar or similar. Locate it close to the house so it’s filled by gutter overflow – perfect for flushing toilets.

A pool offers another ready supply: the only problem is getting access in a wild storm.

Fridge replacement Loss of power makes one realise how often we go to the fridge. When the power cuts, buy some ice (if you can) and fill the Esky with your most-used everyday products, like dairy foods.

Depending on length of blackout, food can remain in the freezer for about three days.

If you can’t get ice, keep the fridge door closed as much as possible.

Constant door opening raises its internal temperature. Consider purchasing a small gas or kerosene-run camping fridge for emergencies like this.

Lighting Apart from a good store of candles and matches, keep several torches at hand.

Keep a supply of fresh batteries. When

the crisis is over, remember to remove the batteries and re-charge the lamps.

Camping goods stores have perfect equipment, such as Coleman-style lamps (pictured) and lanterns which run on LPG gas or re-chargeable batteries.

Their bright light lets you read a book and cook dinner. Clip-on LED lights are great for reading in bed.

Lighting for the elderly Consider the older person; loss of light is very disorienting and can result in falls and medical emergencies.

Electricians can install a wired-in emergency back-up that gives light for 90-minutes post blackout: worth considering in our region, with many brown-outs.

Cooking Make sure your home has one gas cooktop: stove, barbecue or camping unit.

Keeping informed Buy a battery operated radio and tune in to Lismore ABC. During emergencies frequent announcements are made relating to flooded areas and blocked roads. (However, their advice to check various websites can be frustrating when the computer is down.)

Remember to remove the batteries at the all-clear as they tend to oxidise over time.

A Red Cross radio (pictured) is a great asset.

It’s powered by solar, or hand-winding when there is no sunlight. It also has the facility to re-charge most mobile phones.

Phone Walk-about, cable-free phones require electricity. Keep an old fashioned Telstra handset to plug in once the power goes out.

Important numbers Keep on hand a list of emergency phone numbers. Include the SES, local Council,

Telstra, Country Energy or your chosen supplier, Radio 2NR. Generators It’s worth considering the feasibility of owning a generator for when power is out. Is it worth the cost for say five days’ use a year? If you do buy, consider the equipment you’d need to power: fridge/freezers, computers, stove, TV, pumps, etc and get one to match your needs. Folks without have to go cold turkey on their iPads, Kindles and the like.

If you buy, make sure you have fresh petrol or appropriate fuel available. Petrol goes stale but can be siphoned from the car.

For agricultural needs, such as a dairy farm, it’s even more important to have a generator. In this case it’s a necessity.

Animals, birds Chooks, dogs, cats and other pets get frightened during heavy storms; they need to be safe, warm and comfortable. Don’t forget them in the whole scheme of survival.

Keep a Kit Make up an emergency box. Tell everyone in the household where it’s stored. In it keep batteries, candles, matches, torches and other lighting, emergency phone numbers, battery operated radio, phone handset, and a medical supply kit.

Keep your cool Finally, it is worth acknowledging that four or five days of making-do in increasingly primitive circumstances can take its toll on even the best humoured. Tempers fray and going to bed with the sun is only okay when by choice. It’s a good idea to keep a few new toys and games stored away to divert young children and treat yourself to a meal out when possible. And a bath or shower!

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green fingers

a bountiful harvest Like many former city folk, the idea of having a small veggie patch at home was part of the tree-change dream. But when it came to starting the plot and reaping the benefits, the results were dire - acrid greens, deformed carrots and strawberries so small and so seedy that even the ravenous resident water dragon wouldn’t touch them.

Hardly living off the grid.

But it was all rookie error, explains Dayne Thompson, a horticulturalist with an interest in organics, permaculture and sustainability. “A common mistake made by many first time gardeners is the continual harvest and replanting without replenishing and resting the soil,” says Dayne. “Starting a home veggie patch for the first time or reviving a neglected patch can be a rewarding experience for the whole family. From windowsills to balcony pots to ripping up the front lawn there is so much room for creativity.”

Dayne, who’s lived in the Northern Rivers for eight years, recently established a thriving kitchen garden at Harvest café Newrybar, nestled between the new deli and original restaurant building. Prior to construction of the garden, Dayne spent a whole year brewing a rich compost from the kitchen’s green waste, balancing the mix with coffee grounds and wood ash from the bakery. “Initially starting a veggie

garden with healthy nutritionally rich, friable soil and good drainage is important to the success and longevity of your garden harvest,” he says. “This gave us a large amount of rich compost to fill our garden beds with, creating a perfect foundation for the garden to grow from.” What’s more, composting from the kitchen saves a staggering six tonnes of green waste from landfill each year.

Once the soil is sorted, the next challenge is plant selection. And those new to gardening – and those with a persistent brown thumb - might consider starting with a legume. “I really love planting peas and beans as they grow so well in our area,” says Dayne, suggesting heirloom varieties for planting right now. “They have a long continual harvest, can be grown in small spaces using vertical techniques, are also great companions and give back much needed nitrogen to the soil.”

A herb garden, when established in the right spot, is also invaluable for cooking as well as having medicinal and healing qualities.

“The next is a basic salad garden to provide daily greens. These need a little more attention and regular staggered planting, but will provide all year round, so place this garden close to the kitchen or somewhere where it will receive daily observation,” says Dayne.

And the Harvest Kitchen Garden receives daily observation, not just from the resident gardener and admiring restaurant patrons, but from the chefs, who sneak out to pluck some fresh herbs, salad leaves or edible flowers with which to experiment and garnish.

The garden is a work of art that is both visually and gastronomically satisfying.

Featuring raised hardwood beds - designed and built by London Constructions – it is planted with continuous rotation of seasonal plants incorporating green manures and companion planting. There are beautiful rock walls - designed and built by Bay Area Stoneworks - surrounding the perennial plants and dwarf fruit trees, that are both practical and an inviting spot to admire the flourishing garden.

Looking ahead Dayne and the Harvest team are working towards having a highly productive and diverse farm plot providing a larger amount of produce for the kitchen and beyond.

“I really do feel a sense of gratitude for just how fortunate we are with our rich volcanic red soils,” says Dayne. “I am constantly being inspired by the many passionate local growers and gardeners in this area.”

I don’t think I’m quite that passionate gardener Dayne’s referring to, but I’m going to give it another shot. Sally Schofield

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health and wellbeing

eat your greens The health benefits of green vegetables are undisputed, but that doesn’t make the task of getting a five-year-old to gobble up their broccoli any easier. But the pay off – healthier immune system, warding off cancer, autoimmune disease, inflammatory disease, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, not to mention bone health – make persistence worthwhile.

Bangalow naturopath and nutritionist Sally Pattison sheds some light on the often maligned and mistreated food group – greens. “There are no bad vegetables, but not all vegetables are equal – the leafier and greener the better,” says Sally, who operates a clinic in Station Street. “Greens fall under the category of superfood. Dark green leafy vegetables are, calorie for calorie, probably the most concentrated source of nutrition of any food,” she says. “They are a rich source of minerals (including iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium) and vitamins, including vitamins K, C, E, and many of the B vitamins.”

“Vitamin K is perhaps the star of these nutrients,” says Sally. “A cup of most cooked greens provides at least nine times the minimum recommended intake of Vitamin K, and even a couple of cups of dark salad greens usually provides the minimum all on their own.” Recent research has provided evidence that vitamin K may be even more important than we once thought and many people don’t get enough of it. “As Vitamin K is fat soluble (along with A, D and E) it is optimal to eat it with some oil, so add

some oil to your salad or vegetables after steaming,” says Sally.

“Greens also provide a variety of phytonutrients including beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which protect our cells from damage and our eyes from age-related problems, among many other effects. Dark green leaves even contain small amounts of Omega-3 fats,” she says.

“And greens are virtually carb free!”

“Adults should aim for 5-7 serves of vegetables per day. This equates to roughly 2-3 cups of cooked vegetables.”

“We can include greens very easily in every meal or just one,” says Sally. Some delicious suggestions include: l In a cooked breakfast, try tossing some spinach through your scrambled eggs for delicious ‘green eggs’. l The Green Smoothie – blend cucumber, green apple, spinach leaves, some ginger, celery even avocado – a meal in a glass. l A leafy salad – a complete meal with the addition of any form of protein for lunch – left over roast meat, tuna, chicken, egg or legumes.

At dinner you can include rocket in a salad, top off a pizza or stir it through your pasta.

Another way to add greens – and wonderful flavours – to meals is with herbs.

“I call them nature’s vitamins,” says Sally.

“And they add so much both to your health and the enlivening of the foods we eat. They are nutrient dense and as we tend to eat a lot of them raw it is even better.” Think about basil and tomatoes – they grow together and they go together in many meals.

“If all else fails – you can get your greens in a powder – ie vital greens – spirulina, chlorella, broccoli sprouts, wheatgrass, barley grass,” says Sally. “Just a teaspoon in your morning smoothie!”

Kids present their own challenges, but Sally has these tasty tips to disguise nutritious greens including: l Guacamole made from avocado, lemon juice, spices served with veggie sticks. l Cucumber boats filled with nut paste. l Little trees (aka broccoli) sprinkled in toasted sesame seeds. l Baby spinach sautéed with mushrooms on toast or in a toasted sandwich with tomato. l Stir-fried broccoli with sweeter vegetables like carrot and capsicum. l Kale chips made by tearing kale into pieces, toss in oil and salt and put in low oven till crisp. l Sea vegetables – think nori-wrapped sushi or an Asian soup with some kombu. l Sprinkle sprouts over kid friendly salad or pop into their sandwich.

And for the broccoli avoiders?

“Call it ‘Alien Food’, it worked for my boys!” she says.

Sally Schofield

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artery

the arts Blues are upon us: Festival, that is. Although with the deluge, animals pairing up two by two, a cyclone and winds to rival the morning after a good curry, you could almost think there was the possibility of climate change! Bah humbug. Marching on regardless, the only way to lift one’s spirits (make mine a double) is to contemplate the Zen of creating your own arty space in your own arty world. I know it sure helps me! How about paddling around some of these liquid opportunities?

Face-off 2013 Northern Rivers Portrait Prize is on again. This painting and drawing prize is open to artists wanting to commit a person in arterly form, from the Northern Rivers, whom the artist believes to be of value in their life personally or to the community at large. Plenty of scope there!

Acquisitive prize of $10,000 with Armsign Award ($1500) and Peoples’ Choice Award ($500) non acquisitive.

Entry forms artgallery@lismore.nsw.gov.au by 19 April.

Young Songwriters and Film

hopefuls Lismore Young Songwriters Competition: invites youngens to muster up their musical prowess and start writing lyrics for the 2013 LYS Comp with categories of hip hop, folk/country, punk/metal, rock/indie and pop. A Young Songwriter of the Year will be chosen at the live judging concert 11 April. Info Lizette.Twisleton@ lismore.nsw.gov.au by 24 March.

Youth Film Competition: Byron Shire Youth Council is launching its first attempt at this comp, inviting all youngens from 12-25 to give short film, documentary, or music clips a shot. Got an iPhone?

Then start shooting. Great prizes (iPads, public screening of your film and all that kudos). Contact www.byron.nsw.gov.au/youthevents by 22 March.

Have you entered the Swell yet?

Artists are invited to submit entries for Swell Sculpture Festival happening on 13-22 September along Currumbin Beach. $15,000 non-acquisitive prize on offer by the Gold Coast City Council. All forms of sculpture encouraged and entry open to national and international artists in any

medium. More about that from www.swellsculpture.com.au by 15 March.

The Text Prize Text Publishing wants talented writers of young adult and children’s books. A $10,000 contract is waiting for some novelist to step up to the mark.

More info http://textpublishing. com.au/about-text/the-text-prize

by March 29.

We’re at the Moller Pavilion INSIDE the Bangalow Showgrounds Art-on-the-Move, your local artists are back purveying their wares in the Moller Pavilion, that’s the Pavilion inside the showgrounds, band end of the markets. Yes, come and see us and enter our art lucky-dip for a chance to win an arty pack: a combination of prints, books, glass, cards etc donated by Karyn Fendley, Leonie Jackson, Dave Kill, Jacqueline King, Marika Bryant, Soren Carlbergg and Caroline McKay. Nicole from Collecting Feathers has bunting to festoon the world, which sounds pretty damn cheery to me! Bangalow Market Day - see you there.

Marika Bryant

Arts supplier data base Arts Northern Rivers invites consultants, workshop facilitators and marketing companies with arts experience to join our local suppliers database. Arts Northern Rivers often engages the services of consultants and workshop facilitators to help us deliver a program of skills and professional

MARCH MARCH 2013

2013

development opportunities in the region. These workshops can cover the areas of: Social Media, Marketing, Online Marketing, Publicity, Public art policy, Project development, Website development, Business plan development, Grant writing, Community cultural project development, Public

relations, Copy writing, Editing. If you have skills and experience in delivering workshops in these or other cultural development areas and would like to join our database please complete this form. https://www.surveymonkey. com/s/ConsultantDatabase

Arts Northern Rivers

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that old time religion

Uniting Church Bangalow

Rev. Ken Day

The Uniting Church of Australia was formed in 1977 and is an amalgamation of the following three churches: the Congregational Union of Australia, the Methodist Church of Australasia and the Presbyterian Church of Australia.

The Uniting Church in Station Street Bangalow was originally a Methodist Church and prior to January 1910 parishioners met at what was then known as the Temperance Hall in Lismore Road on the way out of Bangalow. The Temperance Hall is now a pottery studio.

Commencement of a new church building at the current Station Street site commenced in July 1909 at a cost of £638. It was opened in January 1910 and presided over by Reverend Leonard Peacock.

Unfortunately the church building was all but destroyed in 1914 by hurricane strength winds. The Bangalow Heritage House Museum has a great photo of what was left of the Methodist Church building in the aftermath of this hurricane.

The Methodist Church was rebuilt at the current site one year later. The cedar pews from the original building were saved and used with the existing building. The building was later extended for multi-purpose use.

Today services are held 5pm on Sundays. The service includes music, children’s and teen’s ministry, attending to the Scriptures, and mission prayer. Rev Ken Day is the Resource Minister for the church. Ken’s purpose is to supply “resources and support for worship, ministry and mission in local communities through congregations and faith communities”.

To find out more about the Bangalow Uniting Church please view the following websites: http://www.facebook. com/pages/Ken-Day-Far-North-Coast-Uniting-MissionResourcing/154358817945192.

Andrea Sturgeon

Saturday Night Trivia – Fundraiser for BPS Fancy yourself a trivia buff? Well put on your thinking caps and sharpen your pencils in preparation for Bangalow Public School’s inaugural trivia night fundraiser. To launch fundraising activities for the new year, the Bangalow Public School Brains Trust is preparing to put you through your paces on Saturday, 16 March at the Bangalow Bowling Club.

Kicking off at 7.30pm sharp, tickets are just $15 per person and can be purchased now from the school administration office.

If you can round up a group of braniacs, we’ll be selling tables of eight with each table receiving a complimentary cheese plate. Hosted by Quiz Mistress 18

extraordinaire Sharon Fraser, this social night will feature questions across a number of categories including general knowledge, music, film and television, sport, celebrity and local history. All this plus games, prizes, entertainment and a great way to connect with other members of the community. Each ticket holder will also be in the draw for our fabulous lucky door prize of a $250 voucher towards accommodation at Peppers Salt Resort and Spa at Kingscliff.

For those who can get down to the club early, our good friends at the Bowlo are offering a dinner special of pasta, salad and bread for just $15 per person. Order

from 5.45 – 6.45pm.

Please note, this event is strictly ADULTS ONLY so book your babysitters now, choose a team name and come and impress old and new friends with your knowledge of all things trivial. And remember, knowledge is power when it comes to trivia!

Tickets for this bigger-than-Ben-Hur trivia night fundraiser will be strictly limited so don’t blow this golden opportunity to showcase your clever clogs.

Who will be crowned Bangalow’s Public School trivia champions? All will be revealed on Saturday, 16 March at the Bangalow Bowlo.

Viv Fantin BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

the arts

film funding boost The drizzly grey weather did nothing to through this funding”.

An example of the local screen talent is dampen the enthusiastic turnout to an inviting Northern Rivers Screenworks ABC1 TV drama The Gods of Wheat Street. morning tea at Heritage House on Tuesday, It is currently in postproduction and will be 19 February. The event was a platform for aired on ABC1 later in the year. Screenworks Screenworks to announce recently received Chairperson Lois Randall worked as a federal funding and introduce its 2013 producer on this TV drama. Indigenous writer and Casino local, John Bell, penned Professional Development Program.

Screenworks has received $26,475 from the TV drama. Filming for the production the Regional Arts Fund. The fund enables occurred last year around Casino, Lismore Screenworks to partner with the Indigenous and Coraki. The production employed over Unit at the Australian Film Television and 200 people many of whom were locals.

At the Screenworks event Lois said “The Radio School to provide an intensive writing clinic for indigenous emerging Gods of Wheat Street highlights opportunities for producing screenwriters in the indigenous Northern Rivers. drama in this Screen Australia region and the has provided $25,000 need for us funding for Northern to nurture the Rivers Screenworks professional 2013 Professional development Development of more programs. It was Indigenous also announced storytellers”. that Screen NSW Lois also is contributing mentioned how to professional sought after development by indigenous providing $20,000 stories and funding from the characters are 2012/2013 Industry in mainstream Development Fund. film and TV as Screen NSW are Justine Elliot, Janelle Saffin, Lois Randall evidenced by also committing a and Jill Moonie the high rating further $10,000 for TV drama Screen Audience Development and $30,000 for an Redfern Now and award winning movie The Sapphires.

Interactive Media program.

Visual Effects Artist and Supervisor Screenworks General Manager Jill Moonie spoke at the event and introduced various William Gammon also spoke at the event speakers from the federal government and and mentioned he would not have moved the local screen industry. Jill mentioned his family and his visual effects company, that the screen industry in the Northern Cumulus, from Sydney to this region if it had Rivers region contributed over $1,000,000 not been for the support of Screenworks. last financial year to the regional and NSW Will has worked on multiple blockbuster economy. “They recognise the industry here movies such as the Harry Potter series, The Legend of the Guardians and Happy Feet is a great economic opportunity,” she said.

Federal Member for Page, Janelle Saffin 2. Will is hoping to help local filmmakers MP, identified the rich culture in this area and utilize his companies’ skills.

Screenworks, based in Bangalow, is the suggested that local and regional content is desired. She also said “It’s all about jobs. No Northern Rivers film, television and digital matter how talented you are you have to media office responsible for attracting work. Workshops will go a long way to help production to the region and for the professional development of Northern people build their career paths”.

Federal Member for Richmond, Justine Rivers screen practitioners. For more Elliot MP, also acknowledged the “strong information about Screenworks, Lois and skill set of wonderful creative people” in William visit these websites: http://www. the Northern Rivers. She said, “I’m sure screenworks.com.au/ http://www.everycloudproductions.com.

Screenworks will continue to go from strength to strength and people in our area au/pictures/the-gods-of-wheat-street/p/51 http://cumulusvfx.com/. Andrea Sturgeon will become more involved as they expand

MARCH 2013

MARCH 2013

At Bangalow School Every Saturday morning 9.30am -11.30am

ACCOUNTANT Possum Business Services Rob Campbell CPA

PO Box 93 Bangalow - Tel 6687 1493 Fax 6687 1493 Email robposs@australis.net

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bangalownursery@linknet.com.au

19 19

what I’ve been reading

The Blind Man’s Garden

by Nadeem Aslam Here is a book that rewards attentive readers. Beautifully written, engaging characters, a carefully crafted and complex story and a lovely garden where the author successfully transports the reader with his descriptiveness.

The story is about a Pakistani family and it documents the period of civil unrest in Pakistan and Afghanistan shortly after the events of 11 September from a Muslim perspective. Whilst there are several characters playing an important role in the story the main intrigue centres on the foster brothers, Jeo and Mikal.

They disappear, without the approval of the family, to Afghanistan to help civilians and soldiers wounded in the conflict between American soldiers and the Taliban.

The patriarch of the family (Rohan) is a devout Muslim, a widower deeply disturbed by his wife’s death and haunted by the mistakes he may have made in the name of Islam. Together,

Rohan and his wife founded an educational institute ‘Ardent Spirit’ which is now under the control of past students who, unbeknown to Rohan, have militant connections.

Rohan and his family still live in a beautiful home and garden owned by the school. These militants have planned to murder Jeo and Mikal and, once they are disposed of, plan a coup at the school with the purpose of getting international attention.

Naheed and her mother, Tara, depict the difficulties created for a woman and her young daughter alone in Pakistani society without the protection of a male family member.

Rohan intervenes to protect Naheed by suggesting a speedy marriage to Jeo which will ensure that she is safe from Tara’s predatory landlord.

The only problem with this solution being that it is Naheed and Mikal who are in love….

This is the story of a family, a story about a conflict. It’s a love story and a story about the extremes people will endure to repay a debt of kindness.

Highly recommended.

Carolyn Adams – Bookworms & Papermites

useful information and contact numbers AA Tues 5.30 Richard 0466 885 820 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 Bridge Fri 12pm Steve 6688 4585 Cancer support 1st Wed 1-4pm Chris 6687 0004 Childcare Centre 7.45am-6pm Kerry 6687 1552 Cricket Club Anthony 0429 306 529 Co-dependents Anonymous Sat 4pm Gye 0421 583 321 CWA 2nd Wed Claire 6687 0557 Garden Club 1st Wed Hazel 6687 8409 George the Snake Man George 0407 965 092 Groundforce Georgia 6629 1189 Historical Society/Museum/Tea Room Wendy 6687 2183 Land/RiverCare 1st Sat working bee Liz 6687 1309 Lawn Bowls, Men Wed & Sat 1pm Gerry 6687 1142 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 Cyndi 6687 0640 Police Peta 6687 1404 Pony Club Kim 6687 8007 20

Pool Trust 3rd Wed Peta 6688 4236 Poultry Club Hec 6687 1322 Progress Association Ian 6687 1494 Quilters 2nd,4th Thurs Leonie 6687 1453 Red Cross monthly - 1st Fri Dot 6687 1246 Rugby Union Richard 0415 773064 S355 C’mtee Heritage House Dawn 6687 2442 Scouts Tues 6.30pm Alison 6628 1024 Show Society Karen 6687 1033 Soccer Club 2nd Mon 6pm Nick 6687 1607 Social Golf every 2nd Sun Brian 6684 7444 Sports Association 2nd Wed bi-monthly Brian 6687 1024 Sporting Field bookings Nick 6687 1607 St Vincent de Paul Thurs 10-11am/Catholic Hall Tennis Court Hire 6687 1803 Writers Group 1st Thurs Simone 6629 1588 VENUES A&I Hall Station St Susie 0428925472 Anglican Hall Ashton St Philip 6687 1046 Bangalow Showgrd Moller Pavilion Karina 6687 1035 Sports/Bowling Club Byron St Scott 6687 2741 Catholic Hall Deacon St Jane 6685 6260 Coorabell Hall Coolamon Scenic Simon 6684 2888 Newrybar Hall Newrybar Village Ian 6687 8443 RSL Hall Station St Charlotte 6687 2828 Scout Hall Showgrounds Jenny 6687 2047 Heritage House Deacon St Dawn 6687 2183 BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

new horizons

6628 1898 (24 hours)

Harry Westera Art Lessons & Workshops Painting & Drawing

3 Deacon Street

Streetscape Landscape Portrait 0431 702 255

www.harrywesteraart.com.au

BAD CREDIT?

GRINNING LIKE...

Helen Johnston talks to Kim and Anna Cheshire in this continuation of the New Horizons series.

Kim and Anna Cheshire have just celebrated their first anniversary of moving into this area and they couldn’t be happier.

After many holidays and regularly attending the Roots and Blues Festival they took the decision to purchase a home set in a pretty garden of three acres just out of Bangalow.

Kim, born in the UK, played in rock’ n roll bands in both England and America.

On moving to Australia in 1980 he gradually became involved with country music bands in Sydney and went on to write music for films and ran his own music management company. He says he never really fitted into the ‘sex drugs and rock n’roll’ scene of the music industry and is glad to have left all that behind.

He just loves playing his music and has recorded two solo albums. He now writes a column for the glossy music magazine Country Update and does most of the maintenance around their property. He cares for two Jerusalem donkeys, four sheep, two chickens, a deaf dog called Waylon and a large productive vegetable garden and several fruit trees.

With parents involved in the theatre Anna Hruby knew from a young age that she wanted to be an actress. As a twelve year old she took the part of Nell in Seven Little Australians and says she was lucky to train at the Ensemble Theatre under Hayes Gordon. She has appeared in numerous roles in most of Australia’s best

MARCH MARCH 2013

2013

loved television series and many stage productions. Anna describes herself as the least ambitious actress in the country but she has never needed nor contemplated moving overseas to seek work.

Since moving north she flies to Sydney early Tuesday mornings, spends three days working there and returns home on Thursday evenings. Initially this was somewhat difficult to manage but she has fallen into the rhythm of this weekly pattern and feels she has the right balance in her life. In recent years the actress who did occasional voice overs has gradually morphed into a voice over artist who does occasional acting jobs. Her current work is a commercial for Suncorp Funeral Plan in which her daughter Polly appears.

Anna is also a sign language interpreter for the Deaf Society of NSW and she finds this aspect of her work, making communications clear for her clients, very rewarding.

Kim and Anna are delighted at how many people they have got to know in such a short time. Anna is part of a Saturday morning casual social gathering for coffee and conversation in Bangalow. She has found this a great source of friendship and local information. Both she and Kim are happy to share their considerable talents in their adopted community where they have found a liberating and satisfying lifestyle that suits them perfectly.

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21 21

taking it to the streets

Like an octopuses tentacles, the streets of Bangalow are reaching out beyond original settlement borders. Such is the growing popularity of this Northern Rivers heritage town. Palm Lily Crescent is a more recent addition to Bangalow’s streetscapes. This street is close by established streets like Rifle Range Road and Raftons Road and is entered directly off Sansom Street.

Although recently built, houses within Palm Lily Crescent are in keeping with the heritage flavour of Bangalow. Early 20th century Ashgrovian Queenslander architecture is very apparent in this street.

Palm Lily Crescent sweeps around to the left and slopes downward. The street is gradually being developed but it still retains a rural feel.

Toward the end of the crescent lies vacant land and farmland. Close by views of lush green hills are eye catching as you wander down Palm Lily Crescent.

Andrea Sturgeon Photos by Benny Saunders and Andrea Sturgeon

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BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

out there

Scout Jamboree success On 2 January the 23rd Australian Scout Jamboree kicked off with a bang !

Nearly twelve thousand Scouts from Australia and around the world all arrived in Maryborough (Queensland) in high spirits, alighted from their buses and immediately started setting up what would be home for the next twelve days.

The first night was an amazing opening ceremony and the fireworks certainly excited everyone.

The next day we finished setting up our camp sites and were eager to get started. Each troop embarked daily on a variety of activities ranging from wading through waist deep mud in Challenge it to exploring the town of Maryborough in Explore it, not to mention Splash it, Endure it, Love it, Climb it, Clown it, Make it, Smash it, Tag it…one

long action-packed schedule.

With daytime so busy you might imagine we’d be tired by nightfall but think again!

Every night was spent fist pumping to the likes of Reece Mastin, Jessica Mauboy and Timomatic live on stage and being entertained by Space Cowboy, Constantino and compered by the hilarious Josh Thomas.

The entire town of Maryborough, including the local police and the Fire Brigade, got in on the act. Police Officers could be seen crawling through mud filled trenches as part of a 4km obstacle course or careering down the mountain on a flying fox while fire fighters provided everyone with a much needed water blast to cool us off.

Nearing the end of Jamboree, all the Scouts were exhausted and eager for a hot shower. Slowly the camp site got smaller and smaller as we all prepared to depart for home and newly made friends said their good-byes and exchanged numbers.

As the buses left Maryborough in one long convoy, we all fell asleep dreaming of the 24th Australian Jamboree to be held in 2016.

Many thanks to the devoted Scout Leaders and Rovers for providing such an amazing Jamboree.

Thanks to the community of Bangalow for making our attendance possible by supporting our fundraising efforts over the past three years which also enabled the Scouts of East Timor to enjoy the spoils of Jamboree.

Jack Hogan, First Bangalow Scouts

Desert Rose (Adenium obeisium) Desert Roses are hardy, succulent plants which are native to the deserts of Africa and the Middle East. They can grow to a height of 2m and have swollen, bulbous trunks almost like a baobab. They seldom reach that height in this area as they are mostly grown in pots. Beautiful striking flowers in pinks, reds or white cover the plant in late spring and summer.

The flowers more closely resemble alamandas and frangipani than roses.

Desert Roses need a well drained soil and full sun. In spring and summer they need to be watered and fertilized, but will rot if left sitting in water. Even though deciduous in cold climates, they will sometimes stay in leaf with sufficient light, warmth and light watering.

They are best propagated from seed as cuttings often produce scraggly plants which don’t develop the bulbous stems and prolific flowers.

Lyn Plummer

Bangalow Cellars Locally owned and operated You’ll always find something special in

43 Byron Street Bangalow Ph 02 6687 1262 www.thecellar.com.au

Sun - Thurs 10am - 8pm | Fri - Sat 10am - 9pm MARCH 2013

MARCH 2013

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march diary

town talk Murray Deane, from Coopers Shoot, had a trailer full of appealing five-month old Boar goats for sale at $60 each. Less cute mature goats sell for $50. Another goat lover, Kyle Anderson, of Mullum, had a tiny but perfectly formed Dairy Cross Miniature goat for sale. If the market proves a hit, as its first day indicated, Eden will hold it monthly.

Phone Ron or Rita for details on 6687 1452.

Christobel Munson

Little creatures Eden Country Store successfully launched a Small Animal Market late in February.

Despite much of Bangalow being without power and a ‘Road Closed’ sign at the Bangalow roundabout putting off all but the most determined, the yard around the Dudgeon’s Lane rural store was the ideal venue, with kids looking at animals and kids (baby goats) checking out the children.

Most popular animals were surely the Babe look-alikes, actually ‘English Large’ piglets raised by Greg Cromwell (pictured here) on 50 acres at Goonengerry. Cute when tiny, Greg says they grow to more than 200kgs, so think twice before you buy a weaner piglet for $100, or a three-month old for $150.

Children were also fascinated with Greg’s small-sized Dexter calf. Tender meat from his Dexter cattle are already proving to be popular with outlets such as Harvest Café.

Greg was also selling Plymouth Rock and Light Sussex chickens.

1

Lisa Hunt at the Bowlo

2

Fundraising at Zentveld’s plantation for Relay for Life. Red Cross street stall.

4

Samba-Blisstas course begins; Food and films; ADFAS

5

Red Cross meeting

7

Dog club begins

Wanted!

Survey volunteers

11

Landcare options meeting

12

Positive Ageing nominations close

Further to the page 5 CoalSeam Gas story, Bangalow coordinator Bianca Ferrari is still looking for volunteers to survey residents of some areas of Bangalow. Surveyors will be knocking on doors asking residents one question: whether or not they want their land or road to be Gasfield Free. If you’re interested, please phone her on 6687 2511.

Christobel Munson

16 BCCC mega garage sale; BPS

Mystery photo

Trivia Night; Newrybar dinner/ movie night; Bexhill open garden; Mullum Relay for Life begins; Bangalow dental open day

17

Bexhill open garden

19

Technology and power saving expo for seniors

23 Netball season starts 24

Bangalow Market

28

Chamber of commerce meeting Farmers Market; 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 HB deadlines: 13(ads) 18(copy)

Do you know where this was taken? Hint – somewhere in Bangalow. See the April issue of Heartbeat for the answer. Eds

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BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT