Editorial

Welcome to this week’s editorial, There is a buzz in the air as we approach the last week before Christmas. A trip to Moruya greets you with so much traffic and a need to consider parking somewhere other than the shop you want to visit. The streets are filling with pedestrians; enough to have you remember to keep to the le as they do in the city. Along with the pedestrians is the increased traffic, expected to peak around 8000 vehicles per day, trundling through the main street. The good news is that the shoppers will be greeted by the annual street decora ons and mber Santa cut-outs that are put up every year by our local groups while the shop fronts are all festooned by members of the local Chamber, out to win the Best Dressed Window award. Further south we see the decora ons of the Tuross Head Progress Associa on at the Tuross Head turnoff and the installa on of decorated Christmas whales in Narooma, sponsored by local businesses. Though I am not one for Na vity scenes and Santa I do enjoy the rela onship that the decora ons have with summer. Every year the decora ons go up and very soon a er the masses arrive. And for a month at best our shops are trading at capacity, our cafes are full and for the only me in the year every house in the shire has its lights on and the sounds of families having fun reverberates up and down usually quiet streets. Summer is a me of beaches, seafood, icecreams, thongs and laughter. Some say this year will be less fun and less laughter because of the cost of living impacts. That may be so, but for the many who come to the coast each year there is the free enjoyment of the freedom of the beach, the walks along shorelines, the cas ng of a fishing line with the children at sunset, a good book taken down from the shelves of your summer accommoda on or from a community book nook, and a snooze in the a ernoon with the so seabreeze through an open window, li le has changed in decades—carefree summers with the value addons, if a TV is available, of the Boxing Day Test and the Sydney to Hobart yacht race. I enjoyed a recent segment on Adam Liaw’s cooking program where Maggie Beer recalled her family being so poor one Christmas that the only gi the children received was a bo le of Coke each, le under the Christmas tree. This had me remembering the Christmas presents that we had as a family in the 1950s to the 1970s during a “poor period”. My father wore socks to work. White socks, long socks. His toenails were like razors so his socks always had toe holes but the uppers were always decent. So every year I would by him socks. And every year he would thank me. There were no surprises but it was fun to go to the trade store with the money I made cashing in my father’s empty beer bo les, to then buy socks, wrap them, and proudly present them. In return I would always receive clothing. Most o en grey shorts and white shirts that, funnily enough, doubled as my school uniform. “Oh, thanks Dad and Mum, just what I needed”. As for my mother she hated the Sunlight Bar Soap that my father and I had in the shower so her Christmas and Birthday presents were quite o en upmarket Cashmere Bouquet soap bought at BPs or Steamships stores, where the rich folk shopped. The thing I remember most about Christmas was not the gi s but the mangos. So many mangos, free via all the trees that grew nearby. I s ll con nue the tradi on of a mangos in summer with the annual treat of a mango on Christmas Day. I fear that Christmas has become a huge cost burden to many families and a me of dread, especially in the current difficul es. But it need not be with so much simple pleasure available, for no cost at all. Maybe it is me to revisit what Christmas was and return it to a simpler me that bought families together to share a small gi and a meal, be it a slice of Spam on white bread with tomato sauce or a grand turkey with all the trimmings. As for my wish of a Christmas present. Whilst I inherited my father’s razor sharp toe-nails I fortunately don’t wear or need socks. Neither do I need a school uniform. That leaves the other op on—my Christmas mango. Perfect. Enjoy the week ahead and enjoy the mayhem whilst it lasts. Un l next—Lei

community Dr Hugh Humphrys re res a er 33 years

December 16th 2022 heralds the re rement of Moruya's Dr Hugh Humphrys. Hugh arrived in Moruya thirty three years ago from Adelaide having achieved his degree at Adelaide University, further adding to his studies in the UK in obstetrics and anaesthe cs.

On arrival in Moruya Hugh put out his shingle at the Campbell Street medical prac ce where he provided the community with a GP obstetrics service and anaesthe cs for visi ng specialists and local GPs and the hospital based surgeon. In addi on to his commitment to the Emergency department Hugh cared for residents at IRT Moruya aged care facility. Outside of his medical contribu ons Hugh is fondly remembered for his roles in hospital reviews and on hospital floats. His most recent appearance being in the revised Moruya Mardi Gras parade. Hugh always promised to himself that he would re re when he “hit” the milestone of turning 70 and he has achieved that goal. Hugh is looking forward to doing sailing, road trips, skiing ,bushwalking and generally po ering around his home. Congratula ons Hugh, from all of us. And thank you for your service . Above: Hugh (in the top hat and tails) will be surely missed by his pa ents as he closes the door of his consul ng room this a ernoon. There is no doubt he will miss his pa ents as much as they will miss him. Photo taken at Moruya Mardi Gras by South Coast Pix

community New Era for the Batemans Bay Sunday Markets

No ma er what city you visit, the local markets are always interes ng and a rac ve. The town market provides a window into the local economy, the culture and the way of life. The weekend market provides a chance to mix and catch up, to trade and to find those special li le things made by the locals. Did you know Batemans Bay has had a Sunday Market for more than 30 years? It was established as a monthly market back in 1989 by the Batemans Bay High School Parents and Ci zens (P&C) Associa on who were keen to raise some funds for the newly established high school. In those days, stall holders parked around the school oval before dawn and welcomed visitors and locals alike when they came to browse. In 2011, the Batemans Bay Sunday Market moved to Corrigan’s Beach Reserve at Batehaven. Twenty six years a er it was established, the Rotary Club of Batemans Bay Rotary took over the Sunday Market and Marine Rescue Batemans Bay started a second market in the month at the same loca on. In recent years, the weather and covid has played havoc with the Sunday Market, resul ng in the cancella on of more than half of the markets in the last three years. Now, the Batemans Bay Sunday Market is back, bigger and be er than ever and moving to the waterfront precinct in Batemans Bay. The first market on the foreshore will be held on Sunday December 18th 2022. Market organiser Neil Simpson said ‘It has been a long, frustra ng period as we have not been able to hold regular markets for quite some me’. Looking for a new beginning and a refreshed market, Rotary has decided to move the Sunday Market to the newly completed Batemans Bay foreshore waterfront precinct. All the regular favourite stalls plus a few fantas c new addi ons will be spread along the Clyde River from the boatshed up to the new bridge. The market is open from 9am to 1pm on the first and third Sunday of every month throughout the year. There is no charge for entry. Visitors to the market are asked to park in one of the many public car parks throughout Batemans Bay centre and walk down to the waterfront precinct to enjoy everything the market has to offer. As well as great market stalls, live music, food and coffee you should check out all the local shops in Batemans Bay on your Sunday morning stroll to the markets. There are plenty of places to sit and enjoy the music and the view. You can browse over 60 market stalls and then stay on for lunch in beau ful Batemans Bay. ‘We are looking forward to a huge market on December 18th to kick us of in the new loca on’ said Neil Simpson. ‘There has been huge interest and every site is booked. Locals who have never been to the Sunday Market now have no excuse’. The Sunday Markets are proudly organised by the Rotary Club of Batemans Bay, and all proceeds go to local Rotary projects.

Eurobodalla Mayor Mathew Hatcher says buying or ren ng in Eurobodalla has become almost impossible for everyday people and it is vital Council properly understands community priori es around the housing crisis.

“Rents con nue to increase with nearly half of rental households in rental stress, while house prices have nearly doubled since 2020,” Mayor Hatcher said. “Un l recently, Eurobodalla was rela vely affordable, with house prices significantly below the state average. This is no longer the case.” Mayor Hatcher said there were no easy answers and it would take concerted effort at all three levels of government to remedy the shortage. General Manager Warwick Winn said Council was developing a Local Housing Strategy to iden fy the ac ons required to meet the shire’s housing needs. “We have a short online survey running right now and I urge residents to take part. The results will help us understand what the community see as priori es in housing and will feed into our dra strategy, which will be out for public exhibi on in early 2023,” Mr Winn said. “The strategy will iden fy demand for new and different types of housing over the next 20 years and pinpoint ac ons to meet this demand by assessing the capacity of exis ng residen al land, the types and sizes of new homes, and appropriate loca ons for development.” Eurobodalla’s housing and support agencies have been involved in the development of the dra strategy to date, along with NSW Department of Planning and Environment, the Land and Housing Corpora on, Southern Cross Housing and SEARMS. The survey is open un l Tuesday 20 December. For more informa on and to par cipate in the survey, visit Council’s Eurobodalla Local Housing Strategy webpage. The community will have a further opportunity for input when the dra plan is exhibited early in 2023.

community Australasia Hotel Opens As A Premier Sapphire Coast Tourist Icon

The landmark heritage building Hotel Australasia, in Eden, will be holding a gala re-opening ceremony from 5pm on Saturday, 17 December, following a mul -million-dollar renova on and expansion. Commonly known to locals as the “Grand Old Lady”, the hotel at Imlay Street is now 119 years old and has returned to be a place for locals and tourists to stay in luxury accommoda on, eat, gather, and be entertained. The Australasia now features eight superbly appointed rooms for couples and families, providing a base in the heart of Eden from which they can explore the beau ful Sapphire Coast. The hotel’s heritage bar, now called “The John Hines Bar”, has been fully renovated and expanded to cater for small and large groups, while the building also features a new dis llery producing vodka and gin. Another key amenity is an in mate lounge room, called “Judy’s Lounge”, where high teas are served for in mate gatherings, while “Pikes Bistro” serves meals. The 5-star bou que heritage hotel has recently appointed Luke Wakefield as head chef to their soon to open Circa 1904 restaurant. Mr Wakefield has 20 years of award-winning experience as a chef.. The Australasia, which has just been announced as a State-significant site and heritage listed by the Na onal Trust, will again be an important community amenity for Eden and wider Sapphire coat community. Mr Mark Toma, a director of Core Asset development, said “We are excited to be re-opening this Sapphire Coast icon and provide the region with a much-needed shot in the arm, genera ng jobs and tourism growth. “We are proud to open the hotel again and welcome locals and tourists, especially as cruise ships have now returned to the newly renovated port in Eden”, he concluded. Celebrate the summer sols ce with

SAGE Head along to the SAGE Garden in Moruya this Sunday for a fun evening with friends. The SAGE Summer Sols ce is a fundraising event featuring nonstop delicious pizzas, made using tasty local produce, fresh out of the wood-fired oven! We don't stop making them un l the groans are loud and clear. It's the perfect event to catch up with your friends in the beau ful surrounds of the SAGE community garden. Where: SAGE Garden, Queen St, Moruya When: Sunday 18 December 2022 - Gates open 4.30pm for 5pm dinner Tickets: $22 pp, $60 for a family of 4, $13 for children under 13 years. Tickets must be pre-purchased before the event – head to sageproject.org.au to get yours.

community $150 Savings Per Child To Get Back To School

Parents across NSW can access $150 worth of vouchers through the Back to School NSW program, giving a boost to household budgets through savings on textbooks, uniforms, sta onery and other school essen als helping families with cost of living pressures. Parents, guardians and carers are encouraged to apply for three $50 Premier’s Back to School NSW Vouchers per child, which can be used at registered businesses towards towards the cost of school uniforms, shoes, bags, textbooks and sta onery You can start applying for the vouchers from Monday, un l they expire on 30 June 2023, giving everyone plenty of me to take advantage of the savings. Applying for the vouchers is simple and can be done in a ma er of minutes using the Service NSW app, on the phone or by visi ng a Service Centre. For more informa on about the vouchers visit www.service.nsw.gov.au/back-to-school-vouchers, call Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit your local Service NSW Service Centre. Customers can search for registered businesses here: h ps://vouchers.service.nsw.gov.au/vouchers/providers-search/

community McGrath plants flag on

Eurobodalla Coast

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th December 2022 – Familiar faces in the Batemans Bay community, leading property agents Kylie and Luke Allan, have partnered with McGrath Estate Agents to bring the renowned agency to the Eurobodalla Coast. Kylie and Luke Allan are Principals of the new McGrath Batemans Bay agency on North Street. The Allans lead an experienced team of 12 including four Property Management staff. McGrath Head of Franchise Chris Mourd welcomed the Allans. “We are excited to have Kylie and Luke join us as principals,” he said. “We share like-minded values.” Mr Mourd said Batemans Bay is a key des na on with its loca on being crucial to servicing the Sydney, South Coast and Canberra triangle. “McGrath Batemans Bay is an important extension to our Mollymook and Ulladulla offices,” he added. Luke Allan said they’re delighted about the move from Elders to McGrath. “We were drawn to the company’s forward-thinking culture in terms of innova on and technology,” said Mr Allan. “Their advanced systems and unparalleled support allow our team more me to focus on their clients.” Kylie Allan brings 17 years’ experience in the property industry to McGrath Batemans Bay. She is con nuing to create posi ve and stress-free experiences for her clients. “This is a fun and fast-growing real estate agency with family values at our core,” she said. The Allans intend on McGrath Batemans Bay becoming the leading pres ge agency on the Eurobodalla Coast. “The brand and its reputa on align well with our coastal loca on where we’ve set several property records recently including the $13.2 million sale of 41 Anderson Avenue, in Tuross Head in January,” said Mr Allan. “We followed that sale with 21 Beechwood Court in Sunshine Bay for $2.05 million and then we again broke the suburb record in April with the $2.52 million sale of 22 Beechwood Court.” McGrath Batemans Bay extends its services from Depot Beach in the north to Tuross Head in the south. Its key precincts are Batemans Bay, Moruya and surrounding suburbs.

Above: McGrath Batemans Bay principals, Luke and Kylie Allan

Right:: the new McGrath Batemans Bay agency on North Street, Batemans Bay

With the holiday season almost here, COORDINARE has joined with the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District and Southern NSW Local Health District to encourage people to be prepared this summer period. COORDINARE's CEO Dianne Kitcher said: "As we are currently experiencing another wave of COVID cases, now is the me to check that your COVID vaccina ons are up-to-date and confirm if you would be eligible for an virals, to save valuable me if you do test posi ve for COVID-19. To avoid a COVID infec on, mask wearing, physical distancing and considering whether to a end crowded events are precau ons worth undertaking at this me." "If you’re at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, and are eligible for an virals, speak to your doctor or nurse prac oner before the holiday season about how you would access these medicines. You would need a prescrip on to get the tablets or capsules from your nearest pharmacy within the first five days of symptoms," said Ms Kitcher. "Ge ng prepared before the holiday season could be as simple as checking you have enough medica on or medical supplies available, or you have adequate repeat prescrip on to cover the holidays and normal business closures, especially if you test posi ve for COVID and need to stay home." “Although it currently isn't mandatory to self-isolate, if you’ve tested posi ve to COVID-19, it’s recommended you stay home un l acute symptoms (runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever) have gone. Make sure you have supplies such as first aid kit and a health ac on plan with a list of important health phone numbers handy, this could help you save me and avoid unnecessary stress if you do have an urgent health need,” she said. Ms Kitcher said if you or someone you know is unwell over the holidays, ask yourself: ‘Is my urgency an emergency?’ There are plenty of health care op ons for unexpected medical issues like sunburn, minor cuts or toothaches which don’t involve a trip to the hospital emergency department. Contact your nearest general prac ce (details at healthdirect.gov.au) Call the healthdirect hotline to speak to a registered nurse on 1800 022 222 Visit a nearby pharmacist Call  000 in a medical emergency A end the nearest emergency department for a serious illness or injury.

community Tilbrook Plaque unveiled in Tuross Head

A excellent turnout by the Local Member for Bega, the community, councillors and staff a ended a public ceremony at the new Tuross Head /Highway intersec on bus shelter on the occasion of the official dedica on of a plaque recognising the longservice of THPA Secretary John Tilbrook and his advocacy for the interests of the Tuross Head community in many areas including the bus shelter.

Above Right: Member for Bega, Dr Michael Holland was on hand to congratulate John Tilbrook on the accomplishments of improving the Highway intersec on, improving the carpark and then finally reloca ng the bus stand to a safer posi on east of the highway. Mayor Hatcher paid respect to those who had helped over the years and especially to the Council staff who brought the carpark and bus stand into being.

Above: John Tilbrook flanked by Eurobodalla Mayor, Mat Hatcher and Councillor Tanya Dannock.

New funding will enable improved pedestrian access to key des na ons at five loca ons within Eurobodalla says Council’s director of infrastructure Tony Swallow. The grants were secured under the Get NSW Ac ve Program. Mr Swallow said the $1,350,000 of state money would be supplemented by $65,000 from Council. “These paths are important links that improve safety, accessibility and social outcomes, and encourage walking and cycling for leisure, health and commu ng,” Mr Swallow said. The five new paths are: Along Northcove Road extending the link between Long Beach to Maloneys Beach, providing safe pedestrian access to local businesses, public toilets and beaches Between Beach Road at Surf Beach to Carramar Drive at Lilli Pilli to fill in the missing link in uninterrupted pedestrian access from Lilli Pilli to the Batemans Bay CBD Along Sylvan Street at Malua Bay to provide safe access to the shops and foreshore Along Hawkins and Evans Roads at Tuross Head to connect the shopping precinct to the exis ng path at One-tree point. Corunna Street and Tilba Streets in Narooma to connect the community to the surf beach, tourist parks and golf course.

Hot p: Buy back something this Christmas

Why not get cra y this Christmas and turn someone’s trash into treasure? From bikes that look brand new to quirky baby highchairs, there’s all sorts of second-hand treasures at Surf Beach, Moruya and Brou waste facility Buy Back Shops. Council staff re-stock the shop each day with preloved items. Casual shop a endant Nathan Cullen was amazed by the things people chuck out. “There’s brand new car parts and new blinds, even an electronic safe s ll in its packaging,” he said. “There’s a lot of fishing rods, sur oards and building materials which are all fast sellers.” Last week, regular customers Jeff and Lyn McMahon picked up a trolley-full of Christmas presents for $50 as well as a load of free mulch. The McMahon family do Christmas differently. “It’s our family tradi on to only give presents that are recycled or something we’ve made,” Lyn said. Lyn loves to find les and materials for mosaics, while Jeff finds quirky things to upcycle. It’s not just about a bargain or interes ng finds, but also spending quality me with loved ones exploring the shop. If you feel some items you’re taking to the p could have a second life, men on it at the weighbridge. Get in quick, the Surf Beach Buy Back Shop will be closed between Monday 26 December and Wednesday 4 January. For opening hours and fees, visit Council’s website. With visitors arriving for the summer holidays, delays at Council’s waste facili es are expected. Please leave plenty of extra me when visi ng, especially at Council’s busiest facility at Surf Beach.

Above: The McMahon family of Mossy Point celebrate Christmas with the environment in mind, giving presents either upcycled or made.

community The Christmas Gala by U3A in Batemans Bay Dec 18th

Believers, Agnos cs and Atheists all enthusias cally welcomed... On Sunday morning 18 th December at 10am, U3A are having a Christmas Gala, which will tell the story of the na vity in song and drama. The morning will feature The Three Tenors- Steve Johnston, Paul Marshall and Duncan McDiarmid, all having glorious and powerful tenor voices. The U3A Singers, conducted by Lyn Brown, happily accepted the invita on to par cipate, and numbers swelled when they heard more about the morning’s events.

Members of the church congrega on gleefully agreed to dress up and perform the Christmas story. The much coveted roles of Mary and Joseph were given to Yemi and Oscar Gouillet; ideal candidates, since they produced twin babies earlier this year, Jada and Jus n. Of course the twins will star as the babies Jesus.

Obviously the Three Kings will be our tenors, and the angels will be the U3A Singers, with Gabriel being acted by Meredith. We will not be reading from the bible. Instead the actors will be pu ng the message into their own words. As well, some favourite carols have been chosen to enhance the story. In the tradi on of the Uni ng Church, this will be a fine example of Inclusivity, with Mary of Nigerian heritage, Jesus portrayed as a boy and a girl, and Believers, Agnos cs and Atheists all enthusias cally welcomed.

Come and have fun. Remember, 10am at the Batemans Bay Uni ng Church on Sunday morning 18 th December.

For further informa on, call Kay on 0438 717606.

NSW Na onal Parks photo compe on

NSW Na onal Parks and Wildlife Service are excited to announce the launch of their #NSWParks photo compe on Whether you love photography, exploring new trails and lookouts, or simply spending me in nature, you could win a dream holiday by showing them na onal parks from your perspec ve . There are four categories: Landscapes and Vistas, Animals and Plants, Enjoying Nature and Remote Country. The winner of each category will score a trip to 1 of 7 iconic na onal parks stays, from The Chalet in New England Na onal Park to Galong Cabins in Blue Mountains Na onal Park. Find your path this summer and capture the beauty of na onal parks on your camera or phone. Terms and condi ons apply. All copyright remains with the photographer. Entries will be accepted from 13 December 2022 to 31 January 2023. No entries will be accepted a er 11:59pm 31 January 2023. Head to their website to learn more and submit your entry h ps://na onalparks.nsw.gov.au/photo-compe on All winners will be announced on the NPWS website and social media on 28 February 2023. All images must be submi ed though our photo submission form. Digital images that are sent via email will not be accepted. The entry forms contain required fields for informa on about the photo, category to be entered, and contact informa on for the entrant, including an email address. If possible, please embed the photographer’s name and cap on informa on in the photo’s metadata.

Pelican Rocks, Greenwell Point win 2022 Great Australian Fish & Chip Award

The winners of the 2022 Great Australian Fish & Chip Awards, organised by Seafood Industry Australia (SIA), have been announced, with the country’s best fish & chippers in each state and territory crowned. “In every town, across every state and territory, people spruik their fish & chips as number one. So, we’ve listened to the people, and crowned the most popular fish & chip shops around the country,” SIA CEO Veronica Papacosta said. “A er close to 60,000 votes from the public spread across 683 stores around the country, the winners of the 2022 Great Australian Fish & Chip Awards People’s Choice Awards have been crowned:: New South Wales – Pelican Rocks, Greenwell Point New South Welshmen cast the most votes out of any state/territory, which meant this top store reeled in the most votes in the en re compe on! Queensland – Costa’s Seafood Cafe, Capalaba Tasmania – Fraggles Fish and Chips, Launceston South Australia – Dolphin Fish Shop and Take Away, Netley Northern Territory – Frying Nemo Fish and Chippery, Stuart Park Australian Capital Territory – Snapper & Co., Yarralumla Western Australia – Ralphy’s Ocean Treats, Falcon Victoria – Jarrah Street Family Store, Wodonga “It’s no secret the Australian seafood industry and foodservice sector. We encourage everyone to take a night or two off from the kitchen, get together with your friends and family, and support your local takeaway store and your fishers, while you enjoy some Great Australian Fish & Chips. “The Great Australian Fish & Chip Awards showcase the very best fish & chip businesses around the country, while they celebrate our great Australian seafood, and the fishers who produce all of our favourite seafoods. “The awards also highlight the importance of buying fresh, local, Australian seafood. It’s important to always ask for Aussie seafood; even why you’re buying fish & chips. Australian seafood is one of the most sustainable protein sources in the world and our fisheries management is world-class. "However, 62 per cent of seafood eaten in Australia is imported, so un l the Albanese Government’s Country of Origin Labelling for seafood sold in foodservice is brought in, it’s important you chat to your server about where your seafood is from.

www.iga.com.au/

community milk crate founda on launch Boxing Day at Mossy Cafe

milk crate founda on are a not for profit, stacked on suppor ng the mental health of hospitality workers and breaking down the s gma surrounding it

Right: Milk Crate Founda on are holding an official launch party at Mossy Café on Pacific on Boxing Day from 7:30am, with V&C Foods dona ng milk and Guerrilla Roasters dona ng coffee. All proceeds from the day go to suppor ng Milk Crate. For more informa on, follow @milkcratefounda on or visit milkcratefounda on.org

Above: "A milk crate, in its simplest of forms transports milk. For some, it’s a res ng place, a dining table, a shelf, a ladder, a founda on for the hospitality industry. We are Milk Crate Founda on".

R to L Bloss McClelland, FOUNDER, Owner of Mami’s Bar (Batemans Bay), Mathew Hatcher, Head Bloke and Chris na Bruce, here to make you smile.

‘Escape Bags’ are free, tote bags filled with the necessi es that a vic m of abuse and his/her children may need when ini ally escaping a dangerous or abusive situa on. Each ‘Escape Bag’ contains high-quality products as its makers understand the importance of feeling comforted and worthy in a crisis. ‘Escape Bags’ are not gender-specific and, by providing two varia ons, ‘Parent and Child’ and ‘Single Adult’, providers cater for all vic ms of abuse. KAKADU COLLECTIONS at Dalmeny may also be able to assist with emergency clothing for children under 2 years and females - note that these items are EUC pre -loved items. Residents of Eurobodalla - If you wish to collect your free 'ESCABAG' please contact 0439999517 and leave a message. A response will discuss the safest op on available to arrange collec on. Escabags Ltd is an Australian registered charity who distribute ‘Escape Bags’ for vic ms fleeing domes c and family abuse. Founder and CEO Stacy Jane was recently awarded the Aware Super NSW Community Hero Award for 2022 at the NSW Women of the Year Awards. She had the pleasure of a ending the Governors Recep on hosted by Her Excellence The Honourable Margaret Beazley (Governor of NSW) at Government House, Sydney.

community Successful 2022 for Batemans Bay Evening View Club and Santa visits

The Batemans Bay Evening View Club had a successful year in 2022 fundraising for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. Our main focus has been fundraising through our raffles, Pamper night auc on, Bunnings BBQ’s and Soup and Sandwich Luncheon but we have also had our monthly mee ngs with guest speakers, trivia games and fun mes. The raffle for the rug crocheted by member Tracey was a great success. At our December mee ng on Wednesday 7th December we had Santa presents as a fun me for members and guests. We also celebrated birthdays for December and January and President Julie gave Deb, Anne e and Doreen a birthday chocolate. On Thursday 8 December we had a stall at the Bunnings Christmas Market night where local community groups were invited to have a stall. This year we have been able to increase our sponsorship of students in the Smith Family Learning for Life Program and also contribute more to other packs for the disadvantaged students. We are now sponsoring 6 students and part sponsor our Regional student and also we donated $500 to the Smith Family Toy and Book Appeal. We have had guest speakers from the Wires, RFS and the Photographic Club. Our Soup and Sandwich Luncheon was a fun social event and the Pamper Ac on raised over $500. We have had Bunnings BBQ’s and the Bunnings Market Days and Evening and these are always well supported. As well as guest speakers at our monthly mee ngs we celebrate any member’s birthdays in that month. The monthly mee ngs are held at the Batemans Bay Soldiers Club. The next mee ng of the Batemans Bay Evening View Club will be held on Wednesday 8 February 2023 at the Soldiers Club at 6.00 pm for 6.30 pm at a cost of $25 for a meal and the mee ng. Visitors and guests are always welcome to come and join everyone and enjoy an evening with women from all walks of life and listening to a great guest speaker. For all enquiries please contact Julie on 0408 215 553 or Jenny on 0429 726 630.

Above: President Julie with Birthday Girls, Deb, Anne e and Doreen

TUROSS HEAD RURAL FIRE BRIGADE SANTA RUN 2022

It wouldn’t be summer or Christmas without it! You need to know: Friday 23 rd December:  Drop off gi s at the fire shed (Drake Street) between 2:00 and 6:00pm o Securely wrapped, labelled with street and number plus name of recipient o $2 dona on per gi Saturday 24 th December:  ● Gi s will be delivered by Santa between 2:00 and 6:00pm  ● Santa will come to your front gate. Please don’t let children run across the road

Garden Assistant required to start early 2023 For large na ve garden near Bodalla. We want a keen strong worker with an interest in plants. Knowledge and experience is helpful TAFE training available Wages relevant to experience Further enquiries & to apply: Text or phone 0427 211 127

Community—Tuross Head NSW State Elec on And Be er Access To Hospital Care

The Beagle Editor, The TUROSS HEAD PROGRESS ASSOCIATION Inc (THPA), on behalf of its community, is red of the years of lack of transparency, spin and misleading informa on in rela on to local access to quality healthcare. The THPA is now taking a proac ve role by appoin ng two highly experienced commi ee members to work towards solu ons. THPA will build on the outstanding efforts of Dr. Michael Holland and Fitzroy and Mylene Boul ng (organisers of 3 large scale pe ons for improved hospital clinical services). The long term lack of access to local public hospital care compared to the level of care available to metropolitan communi es is one of the most important issues facing our South Coast community in the upcoming NSW elec on. NSW governments, Lib/Nat and Labor, have over many decades treated rural and regional healthcare with a combina on of indifference and neglect leading up to the recent NSW Parliamentary Regional and Rural Hospital enquiry with its devasta ng nega ve findings. The commitment to building a new hospital in Moruya by the current government is a big step forward despite being long overdue. With regard to improving clinical services there is a small, faint light at the end of the poli cal tunnel with both major par es acknowledging the deficits in rural/regional healthcare and very, very faint hints at improving those clinical services but without any clear proposals. The THPA's task is to get clear and consistent ac on statements prior to the elec on from all poli cal par es and SNSWLHD so that all voters can make an informed decision. Vo ng decisions in the 2023 NSW elec on will determine hospital care for at least 20 years into the future.

Star ng early next year THPA will provide frequent updates of any changes right up un l the elec on.

Support the TUROSS HEAD PROGRESS ASSOCIATION Inc (THPA) by becoming a member. For more informa on contact Honorary Secretary secretarythpa@gmail.com The Shed welcomes males over eighteen with the aim to provide a safe place to be involved in joint projects, snooker, photography, cards, table tennis etc or just have a cuppa and a yarn. Our general open me is Monday and Thursday 8.00-12.00 am We also open Tuesday 2.00-4.00pm for cards (euchre) Wednesday 2.00-4.00pm for snooker and the camera group meet Thursday 2.00-4.00pm. For informa on contact brocky1967@outlook.com or ptuross@bigpond.com

community Support Student Sculpture While Enjoying Your Coffee

If you love your coffee and want to support young ar sts in our Shire, there’s a new blend out there to sa sfy both your passions. You’ll recognise the brand and blend because a striking new design on the packaging will alert you to this opportunity. Sculpture for Clyde has partnered with Guerilla Roasters to raise money for the Student Sculpture Prize and Exhibi on to be held in May 2023. Some proceeds from the sale of the Student Sculpture blend will be used to stage the exhibi on and award winning young sculptors. The new blend features a design by Sophie Heslop from St Peter’s Anglican College, winner of the inaugural coffee logo compe on. Sophie’s design caught the a en on of Guerilla Roasters’ owner, Mathew Hatcher and will now spearhead the campaign to support other young ar sts in our community. “We love this project,” said Student Sculpture organiser, Frances Harmey. “We support and promote a young ar sts using one medium, in order to raise funds to award young sculptures on other mediums.” “We’re thrilled that Guerilla Roasters selected our sculpture event to support and that it’s come to frui on so quickly. Just in me for Christmas and summer. “It’s an indica on that lots of businesses and individuals in our Shire support crea vity and the ar s c endeavours of young people. We also have sponsorship commitments from Go Vita Batemans Bay and Steph’s Fabrics in Moruya.” Five local high schools have decided to join the Student Sculpture Exhibi on and Prize, and individuals can enter by contac ng us through our website www.sculptureforclyde.com.au or by emailing frances.harmey@gmail.com Student Sculpture coffee beans can be purchased from Mossy Cafe outlets and through the Guerilla Roasters website.

Cap on: Sophie Heslop with her design for the new coffee blend that will support young ar sts in the Student Sculpture Prize and Exhibi on in May 2023.

community Dr Rae Luckie : Master of History

Batemans Bay resident Dr Rae Luckie and husband Barry travelled to Armidale where last Friday she was awarded a Master of History, specialising in local and family history. Rae established the Graduate Diploma of Educa on program at the University of Wollongong’s Batemans Bay campus which ran from 2009 un l and the end of 2014. S ll passionate about teaching, Rae has taught crea ve wri ng at venues throughout NSW. She and Barry caravanned each year to the Central West and Riverina where she facilitated crea ng wri ng classes in local libraries and wri ng centres. Rae said the far south coast has a special place in her heart. In the late 1970s Barry was transferred to the Bega Police Sta on, and shortly a er Rae was appointed secretary to the then town clerk of Bega Municipal Council, Paul White. Rae recalls the turbulent me during the amalgama on of Bega, Imlay and Mumbulla councils. ‘The buzzword was economies of scale’, Rae recalls. Currently a voluntary tutor for Batemans Bay U3A, Rae will be teaching two crea ve wri ng programs in 2023 at Batemans Bay Library. The Wednesday a ernoon group will be for those who have completed any of Rae’s wri ng workshops over the years. The Monday a ernoon group will be for those who are interested in in kickstar ng their crea vity—from prose to poetry, from memoir to family history, from crime to historical fic on. Rae is a professional editor and is also a mentor for the Australian Society of Authors.

Pictured: Mr James Harris, Chancellor, University of New England, presen ng Master of History to Dr Rae Luckie 9 December 2022

community Help Malua Bay Fire Brigade help the Brown Family

Malua Bay Rural Fire Brigade is organising this fundraiser. Malua Bay Rural Fire Brigade member Greg Brown, his wife Jill and daughters Cate and Amelia, and Cate’s partner Luke have been devastated by Cate’s recent diagnosis of stage 4 biliary cancer. Ca e, who recently completed her nursing degree at 21, was about to start her nursing career but is instead ba ling this terrible disease. Jill has le her job to care for Cate, and Greg, a selfemployed carpenter, will be reducing his hours significantly so he can help care for and spend as much me as possible with Cate. Malua Bay Rural Fire Brigade say "Greg is one of our most experienced members, and even now con nues to a end call-outs, serving the community in which he lives. He also served his community during the relentless 2019/20 fires. He is the recipient of the NSW Premier’s Bushfire Emergency Cita on, the Na onal Emergency Medal and the Na onal Medal. "Our brigade hopes to assist Greg’s family by easing its financial burden. We will also be undertaking other fundraising measures, which will be publicised on our web page ( h ps://www.maluabayrfs.com/) and Facebook page (h ps://www.facebook.com/maluabayruralfirebrigade ).