Beagle Weekender Vol 295 January 27th 2023

Welcome to this week’s editorial,

Another Australia Day comes around. And once again, as I have done for many years, I reflect on what it must feel like being a first Australian and reflec ng on the wave a er wave of invasion that have landed these shores.

I wonder at that first day where a local was si ng by the shores and watched the first human arrive ashore, aligh ng from a canoe and kissing the ground, happy to have survived the paddle—or the long walk if that was the case.

I can imagine the conversa on between two wallabies watching on “Oi, Bruce, what do you make of that?”

Bruce, being the older reflected on the sight and responded “Yeah, heard about this mob. They have been on the move since they le Africa. They are pre y basic so it shouldn’t hurt having a few of them. Bit worried about their luggage though. Seems like they want to ignore our quaran ne rules and bring in dogs and rats”.

So the First Mob arrived, with their barely domes cated dogs and the rats that came in the luggage. And with them came manmade fire. And they burnt far and wide. Fortunately their impact was minimal. It was going to take a lot more than a handful of humans to change the face of a con nent. For nearly 60,000 years it seemed like everyone got along but the locals remained distant. A er all it was their country first and the First Mob of invaders weren’t invited.

The next wave of invaders was by ships. A different mob all together. This mob wore shoes and clothing, had weapons and a very nasty disposi on towards trees, rivers, animals, the First Mob of humans and any animal they encountered. They even bickered and fought amongst themselves carrying on like a bunch of criminals. To an outsider these newcomers were a blight with the singular inten on of ruining what was a pre y nice place before they came. They bought cows, goats, horses, more rats. They bought their weapons and a self en tlement that declared they now had mandate to do whatever they wanted.

The strangest thing of all was that they said that they could do so because of “laws” handed down by the “king”. The wildlife and the First Mob recognised that things were about to change for the worse.

And they were right. More invaders came, wave a er wave, and rather than considering how they might live with the environment these invaders put tools to use and changed the environment to suit them. Hundreds and thousands of trees were felled, the ground was mined, the rivers polluted and the wildlife and First Mob driven to cover.

Over the last 250 years those most recent invaders bred like the rabbits that they introduced, even outnumbering the foxes, cane toads, pigs, cats and hundreds of other species they have brought to those shores. But that wasn’t enough. They needed more, so the call went out and more and more came. By ship and by air. And every newcomer spelt the demise of yet another small corner of this vast land.

But it turns out the land isn’t vast enough to cope. There wouldn’t be all that many places le in this vast con nent where a human hasn’t had a dump or le behind plas c, glass or metal. There wouldn’t be a beach or river that could be called pris ne and you would be hard pressed to find evidence of the Australia that was before humans arrived.

The fact is that each and every mob, from the First Mob to the most recent arrivals, have played their role in changing this vast land from coast to coast including its rivers and seas. And instead of all coming together on Australia Day to consider what we have done to our land we instead resort to celebra ng what it is to be an Australian, we argue about who was First, who was Second, Third and Fourth as if it is important whilst we ignore the fact that we humans are all the invaders, and indifferent and ignorant to the legacy of what we, collec vely, have done, and con nue to do, to a land that was once pris ne.

But nothing will change. The Great BBQs will con nue and the flags will fly. So too will the arguments and the discord. And tomorrow we will con nue to burn, to clear, to mine, to pollute, to consume, to destroy, because that is our nature. Human Nature. Invader’s nature. If there is to be One Voice then let’s use it to heal the damage we have done, and con nue to do, to the very environment where we live.

Every Australia Day I try to imagine Australia, the con nent before the arrival of the human invaders from across the seas ……………... What a remarkable place Gondwana must have been. And then, like many others, I go down to the shore and pick up the bo les, the cans, the empty prawn bags, cigare e packs and discharged firework wrappers le behind by so many indifferent Australians …. on Australia Day.

Un l next—lei

Community bridge walk and celebra on to mark opening of new Nelligen bridge

A community celebra on will be held on the Nelligen foreshore in the coming weeks to mark the comple on of the new Nelligen Bridge before it opens to traffic.

A Transport for NSW spokesperson said the event is an opportunity for the local community of Nelligen to come together, reminisce, celebrate, and walk across the new bridge.

“Nearly a year ahead of schedule, the new two-lane bridge on the Kings Highway at Nelligen will be open to motorists, cyclists and pedestrians in late-February,” the spokesperson said.

“We want to thank the community for their pa ence during the construc on of the bridge and for their input to the design that will provide be er connec ons for the next 100 years.

“The community is invited to join us on the Nelligen foreshore for a sausage sizzle, to chat to the project team and an opportunity to walk across the new bridge on Saturday 4 February from 10am and 2pm.”

The spokesperson said the NSW Government has invested $148 million to ensure locals, tourists and the freight industry can experience a safe and reliable crossing of the Clyde River without speed or weight restric ons.

“Major work started on the new bridge early 2021 which is now opening to traffic nearly a year ahead of schedule,” the spokesperson said.

“The is a significant milestone in the Nelligen Bridge Replacement project which is now expected to be completed by the end of this year.

“A er the bridge opens to traffic, the project team’s focus will turn to removal of the old bridge, final pavement work and landscaping.”

Temporary traffic changes will be in place while we prepare for the bridge opening. More informa on on these impacts will be communicated to the community closer to the me.

For more informa on, go to nswroads.work/NelligenBridge

Congratula ons to Ms Patricia Ann ELLIS OAM

Connect To Country : a winner that showcases the South East

Narooma’s Connecting to Country programme, showcasing indigenous culture, crafts and dreaming tales, has been a red-hot winner, with the full programme of events for December and January selling out.

Fourteen workshops, tours, walks and experiences have been delighting participants who are enjoying the chance to try their hand at basket weaving and traditional art and dance or to join Elders on walks, boat trips and e-bike rides while learning about Yuin history, heritage and Dreaming stories.

The programme, curated by Southbound Escapes, and delivered in collaboration with First Nations tour operators, the NSW Government, and the Eurobodalla Shire Council, has exceeded expectations according to Southbound’s Director, Sally Bouckley.

‘We have been overwhelmed at the response to Connecting to Country,’ Sally said. ‘Our aim was to create awareness of Yuin culture and to raise the profile of some of the outstanding Indigenous experiences available on the South Coast. I think it’s safe to say that’s mission accomplished!

‘It’s fantastic that 16 participants have been able to participate in each experience for free, thanks to a portion of a $287,582 grant under the NSW Government’s Reconnecting Regional NSW - Community Events Program.

‘But the best part is that these Indigenous-led tours are going to be available into the future. Our aim was always to provide ongoing support for Indigenous tourism providers and I’m delighted that some of our Yuin partners have already had repeat paid bookings through our collaborative platform.

‘We are lucky enough to be working with some of the most well respected Yuin Nation Elders and Knowledge Holders in the region, and this programme has been a great chance for them to share compelling, authentic, immersive Indigenous experiences with locals and visitors alike.

‘My hope is that we can secure additional seed funding to expand this programme across the South Coast and make these experiences available all year round.’

Patricia Ellis, from Minga Aboriginal Cultural Services, who led a sold-out traditional basket weaving workshop, said the Connecting to Country initiative was not only creating employment for local Yuin people, it was also making an important contribution to raising awareness in the community and building respect for Aboriginal culture.

‘Sally’s passion and commitment for profiling Aboriginal experiences is amazing,’ Patricia said. ‘This programme has given us a chance to showcase our traditional skills and knowledge which is something we never had before.’

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the State Government’s Community Events Program is supporting the events and hospitality sectors across the regions.

“The past three years have been difficult, with many unpredictable events people have been disconnected from family and friends. We want to see communities thriving and businesses benefitting from more local activities, events and opportunities in the regions,” Mr Toole said.

For those who missed out on these hugely popular events, Southbound Escapes is taking enquiries for bookings at a later date. Email bookings@southboundescapes.com or call on 0407 106 392.

Above: One of the region's popular walks is Aboriginal Yuin Na on guide, Patricia Ellis, giving an insight into Aboriginal culture, history and Dream me stories unique to this area on a two hour walk along the stunning Bingi Dreaming Track which is part of the Eurobodalla Na onal Park

Work starts to repair landslip sites on Brown Mountain

Repair work on landslip sites along the Snowy Mountains Highway at Brown Mountain will start next week. A Transport for NSW spokesperson said since the highway was damaged during the severe weather events in early 2022, Transport for NSW has been inves ga ng and designing solu ons to repair a number of sites. “Brown Mountain is a key route for freight, locals and tourists travelling between the Snowy Mountains and the far south coast of NSW,” the spokesperson said.

“Repairs will start on three sites next week to help get this sec on of the road back to pre-disaster condi on and ensure it is more resilient to future severe weather.

“Work will involve reinforcing failed slopes at these three sites between Piper’s Lookout and the Brown Mountain Power Sta on, about nine kilometres west of Bemboka.

“Design solu ons are currently being developed for other sites also damaged during the severe weather events, with work on those expected to start later this year.

“Transport for NSW carried out extensive inves ga ons last year to understand the factors that led to the damage and inform designs that will ensure robust and resilient repair solu ons.

“These inves ga ons included flying drones equipped with LiDAR cameras capable of producing high resolu on 3D maps of the mountain slope terrain, as well as borehole drilling down to 13 metres to gather informa on about the ground and soil forma on.

“Transport for NSW will no fy the community when further work will be carried out and will plan repairs to ensure impacts to traffic are minimised wherever possible.”

Work will be carried out from 6am to 6pm on weekdays from 31 January and is expected to be completed by early March, weather permi ng.

Single lane closures with traffic lights and a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h will be in place 24 hours a day. Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their pa ence during this me.

For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW app, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

This is a one-day white card course that teaches the health and safety legisla on requirements in order to work safely and prevent injury or harm and iden fies repor ng common construc on hazards.

A white card or general construc on card is required for all workers who want to carry out construc on work or be on a job site. This course teaches you the basics of the construc on safety and gives the knowledge necessary to remain safe and healthy on the work site.

Units of competency covered is CPCCWHS1001 - Prepare to Work Safely in the Construc on Industry.

If you wish to find out more about this course, call our friendly administra on team on 4472 9202, visit our website at h ps://southcoastcolleges.edu.au/

Local photographers of all ages, it’s me to get snapping

Friends of the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden (ERBG), in partnership with the Eurobodalla Shire Council, invite photographers to enter this annual compe on. All entrants have a chance to win prizes and have their images selected for exhibi on and inclusion in the 2024 Botanic Garden Calendar.

Entry to the compe on is free. Images must be taken in the botanic garden during the last 12 months. Entries are now open

Entries close: 29 September 2023, 4pm

Sec ons and prizes

The compe on will award three prizes in the junior sec on (under 18 years) and four prizes in the open sec on. The public will have the opportunity to vote on their favourite image, which will win the People’s Choice Award.

All images included in the 2023 exhibi on will be available for sale to the public.

Open sec on - the first-place winner in each of the four categories will receive $300.

Junior sec on - three prizes will be awarded:

$250 - first prize

$100 - second prize

$50 - third prize.

The People’s Choice Award winner will receive $250.

Winners will be announced at the opening of the exhibi on and calendar launch on 20 October 2023. The People’s Choice Award winner will be announced at the close of the exhibit.

Categories

Open sec on

Flowers, foliage and fungi., Trees and landscapes ,Wildlife - all animals, birds, rep les and insects., People in the garden.

Junior sec on—The junior sec on accepts photographs of any subject or category.

.A condi on of entry is that submission of images gives automa c consent to the ERBG to use those images for exhibi on, adver sing or fundraising purposes.

For more informa on about the photographic compe on, contact the visitor centre: T: 02 4471 2544

Broulee Sand sculptures a crowd

It might be legal but will Council refuse to renew rodeo lease on ethical grounds

ABC News reports "A new RSPCA study looking at distress levels in calves put through the rodeo event has confirmed earlier findings that the prac ce is highly stressful and injurious to calves".

RSPCA renews calls for calf roping ban a er new study confirms high levels of animal distress

This study will add further pressure to Eurobodalla Councillors who are set to vote on the con nued approvals of the Moruya Showgrounds, that are under their care and control, for the purpose of rodeo.

In accordance with Sec on 47 of the Local Government Act 1993 no ce is given of Council’s proposed inten on to grant a licence for rodeo events, including a five-year licence to Rodeo Associa on of Moruya within Lot 1 DP 1141031 Crown Reserve 580020, Moruya Showground.

Wri en submissions regarding this proposal will be received by Council up to 10am on Tuesday 31 January 2023.

Have your say HERE: h ps://www.esc.nsw.gov.au/council/haveyour-say/public-exhibi on/other/public-no ce-licence-formoruya-rodeo

pleaser images by Mat Hatcher

South Coast receive $80,000 in funding from the Na onal Australia Day Council

Three South Coast organisa ons have received $80,000 in funding from the Na onal Australia Day Council, supported by the Australian Government, to hold local community events promo ng inclusion for Australia Day.

A er a difficult few years, Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips MP says she is delighted to see the community once again coming together in respect, reflec on and commemora on to celebrate our local community spirit.

The Rotary Club of Batemans Bay, Jervis Bay Marine Rescue and Kiama Municipal Council all received grants to hold local community events celebra ng culture, community and connec on, as part of this year’s theme to Reflect. Respect. Celebrate.

Local events will focus on Indigenous recogni on and cultural displays, as well as welcoming new ci zens and celebra ng our community as part of the day.

“I say it all the me – my favourite thing about the South Coast is our enduring and inspiring community spirit, and as we come together in unity tomorrow, I know that spirit will be on full display,” Fiona Phillips MP said.

“Inclusion, respect and connec on must be our focus, and I am really pleased to see these organisa ons pu ng those values first, I am absolutely delighted that the Australian Government con nues to support regional areas like ours to hold events that are important to us. This year, the Federal Government has worked to make events on Australia Day more inclusive and accessible to all Australians. Each event supported by the Na onal Australia Day Council (NADC) now includes specific elements to ensure their events are inclusive such as having Auslan interpreters, ramp hires, accessible ameni es or providing quiet spaces.

"This builds on the incredible advocacy of the 2023 Australian of the Year, Dylan Alco ", Ms Phillips said. Successful hosts received up to $20,000 to deliver inclusive events that incorporate the message of ‘Reflect. Respect. Celebrate. We’re all part of the story’. Those working with First Na ons communi es to incorporate and celebrate their local history and culture received up to an addi onal $10,000.

“Australia Day is an opportunity to reflect on the history of our country and consider how we can all move forward together in a way that is respec ul and considerate. I am pleased to see so many local events and community organisa ons working hard to strike that balance this year,” Fiona Phillips said.

Fiona Phillips encouraged all local people to consider how they can join with their community in respect and reflec on this Australia Day. The NADC’s Australia Day Community Grants program is supported by the Australian Government. For more informa on visit australiaday.org.au.

A list of grant recipients in the Gilmore electorate is below:

Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW - Jervis Bay Unit - $30,000

The Marine Rescue Jervis Bay 2023 Annual Australia Day Duck Derby is a great family day which includes Aboriginal cultural displays, markets, food stalls, entertainment, and duck races. A true celebra on of Australia Day.

Kiama Municipal Council - $30,000

Celebra ng our local Australia Day Awardees and new ci zens through a ci zenship ceremony.

Rotary Club of Batemans Bay Inc - $20,000

Australia Day will be celebrated with a community breakfast on the foreshore next to the Clyde River and at an a ernoon tea launch of an exci ng new series of videos featuring our community members.

The new Durras Community Blackboard has been installed

The new Durras Community Blackboard has been installed! This is a project by the DCA funded with money raised at the Durras Handmade Easter Market. Thanks to all those who have supported this project. It was built by local volunteers - many thanks to Daniel Perrum, Bob Mates, Steve Gruber, Sco Innes, Mick May, Jarrad Smith and Trevor Daly. Thanks also for supplies and assistance to Camerons Hardware owners and staff. If using the blackboard, please use only plain chalk. No texta pens, s cky tape or

should

A free 2023 Seniors Fes val Ac vity for you from Living Connected

Where: NBN Community Hub 3 Clyde St Bateman Bay

When: Friday February 3rd and 10th , 10am to 12noon

What:

Seniors o en look back and think of pu ng together the story of their lives. You may have bits of your recent lives recorded online on social media, earlier memories saved in photo albums and other mementoes. In this introductory session, we will begin with a discussion on your life’s legacy.

We will show you how to use a blog to collect your life stories online and link them to create a coherent record of your life. These can be public or private or le to family and friends in your will. Follow on sessions will be arranged if needed to provide ongoing help for this ac vity as well as general help with phones, tablets and computers. Some background material to help you to prepare for this ac vity: h ps://beconnected.esafety.gov.au/topic-library/online-hobbies/blogs-online-journals Bring your tablet or laptop if you have one.

pins

be used as they will damage the surface

New land values published for the South Coast region

The NSW Valuer General has published land values for the South Coast Region. The land values reflect the value of land only, as at 1 July 2022. Land value is the value of the land only. It does not include the value of a home or other structure.

Property sales are the most important factor valuers consider when determining land values. The new land values will be used by Revenue NSW to calculate land tax for the 2023 land tax year. Registered land tax clients will receive their land tax assessment from Revenue NSW from January 2023.

Councils receive new land values for ra ng at least every three years. Land values are one factor used by councils to calculate rates.

All councils have been issued with the 1 July 2022 land values. Landholders will receive a No ce of Valua on showing their land value before it is used by council for ra ng. No ces will be issued from January 2023. This gives landholders me to consider their land value.

The latest land values for all proper es in NSW are available on the Valuer General NSW website, along with informa on on trends, medians and typical land values for each local government area.

South Coast NSW region local government areas Bega Valley, Eurobodalla, Kiama, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Wingecarribee, Wollondilly and Wollongong.

General Overview

The total land value for the South Coast region increased 38.2% between 1 July 2021 and 1 July 2022 from $155.1 billion to $214.4 billion . Residen al land values have increased very strongly by 38.3% overall. The increases were experienced in Bega Valley (62.1%) and Eurobodalla (61.3%).

The main drivers in the region included high demand for lifestyle proper es with constrained largest supply in many of the coastal villages. This region also includes the Southern Highlands, which benefits from its natural amenity and proximity to the Sydney market.

Commercial land values increased very strongly by 32.6% overall. Bega Valley (44.5%) and Eurobodalla (48.6%) experienced the largest increases with high demand due to rela ve affordability in comparison to more established commercial precincts in larger urban areas. Increases in Wollongong (40.6%) were largely driven by demand for mixed use development.

Industrial land values increased very strongly by 43.1% overall. The highest increases were in Wollondilly (63%), Shellharbour (49.9%) and Wollongong (49.5%). This was driven by support from the growing popula on bases, while Wollondilly experienced high demand given its rela ve affordability and proximity to Sydney.

Rural land values increased very strongly by 40.1% overall.

The largest increases were seen in Bega Valley (69.9%) and Eurobodalla (57.1%).

The land value increases were driven by high demand, with the area generally being ghtly held leading to low supply.

Demand was high for rural lifestyle proper es in close proximity to larger popula on centres.

Clear winner for Great Australia Day Rotary Duck Race

This year’s Great Australia Day Rotary Duck Race was one of the smoothest races ever, much to the delight of Narooma Rotary organisers.

“What we love is how much our community has embraced this fun event a rac ng bumper crowds, possibly even more than previously,’ said Co-Race organiser Rotarian Mike Young. “Many helped the ducks to the star ng line on the bridge and then dropped them over on the star ng hoot from NSW Mari me’s vessel.

“We were concerned the southerly might impact the race. While some in the field did take the more scenic route under the boardwalk or into Mill Bay and were therefore disqualified, the bulk of the field stayed on course to the finish line.”

There was a clear winner – Duck 88 which crossed the line upside down showing the possible ‘winged keel’ effect. The winning cket was held by Archie Huggins of the Southern Highland who wins $1,000.

The duck judged last was 171, held by Jenny Bainbridge of Mystery Bay who wins $100.

Narooma Rotary thanks all those who came out in kayaks, boats, and paddle-boards to assist with collec ng the 1,000 ducks, as well as Marine Rescue and NSW Mari me. “We couldn’t run this great event without their assistance,” Mr Young said.

Proceeds this year will go towards Carers’ Accommoda on at the new Eurobodalla Regional Hospital (the Carers’ Accommoda on is a Eurobodalla Rotary ini a ve) and prostate cancer research through the Narooma Prostate Cancer Support Group.

Above: Joint Coordinators of the Australia Day Rotary Duck Race Mike Young and Julie Hartley show the winning Duck 88 and the corresponding cket held by Archie Huggins of the Southern Highlands.

A heads up for the Moruya Bypass op ons

Minister for Regional Transport’s unlawful applica on of biodiversity offsets threatens to destroy ancient and unique cri cally endangered species near Coffs Harbour

Sue Higginson, the Greens Member of the NSW Legisla ve Council has released a media statement that suggests of an unlawful applica on of biodiversity offsets threatening to destroy ancient and unique cri cally endangered species near Coffs Harbour.

A biodiversity offset basically means "We can do whatever we want to to this land, we can clear fell it, kill all of its wildlife and turn it into a concrete wasteland if we want because... we paid money into a fund that "safeguards" an area where it will remain "untouched". Not managed but "untouched".

It is nothing more than a contrived, coordinated method to offset the impacts of development. An example of biodiversity offsets can be seen in Broulee and the Moruya Airport. Eurobodalla Shire Council (ESC) applied for, and was granted, a Biodiversity Cer fica on (Biocer fica on) of proposed urban expansion in the Broulee area and proposed development at Moruya Airport.

What does this have to do with the Moruya Bypass route?

Possibly a lot if we read look at the latest Classified Adver sement in the Bay Post and then at the latest media release of Sue Higginson :

The route selec on for the Coffs Harbour Pacific Highway Bypass is under intense scru ny following revela ons that expert advice was changed or ignored to avoid certain agribusiness proper es and instead destroy three areas of cri cally endangered species. Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Sam Farraway, must stop and explain and release the reports and documenta on that resulted in the decision to change

Con nues….

the route from avoiding the cri cally endangered environments, to destroying them and unlawfully applying biodiversity offsets for ecological communi es and species that are on the verge of ex nc on.

Greens MP and spokesperson for the environment, Sue Higginson, said “The Minister for Regional Roads needs to immediately halt this bypass construc on. The discovery of two previously unknown, and now formally recognised as cri cally endangered, species and the rare and endangered rainforest remnant stand known as Grandpa’s Scrub, during the environmental inves ga ons for the Coffs Harbour Bypass should have guaranteed that these areas would not be destroyed for this road,

“The areas that have been chosen as biodiversity offsets for the new route are completely inappropriate and share none of the characteris cs of the area set to be destroyed. The minimum requirement of like-for-like biodiversity offsets for cri cally endangered species and ecological communi es has been completely ignored precisely because there is no other area that shares the unique ecology of Grandpa’s Scrub,

“Transport for NSW held community forums two-and-a-half years ago before deciding on a low impact route that would traverse already cleared land and hor cultural proper es. In an act of poli cal bastardry, there has since been a decision to change the route that will destroy cri cally endangered species and ecological communi es,

“To jus fy the new route, Transport for NSW commissioned a new assessment that only examined the weedy fringe of Grandpa’s scrub and over-ruled the original report that correctly iden fied the significance of this remnant rainforest,

“Sam Farraway needs to immediately stop this madness and release the documents that jus fy the decision to change the route of the bypass and explain why the new route favours influen al local business owners despite the proven presence of cri cally endangered species that will be destroyed,

“Grandpa’s Scrub is a small but significant stand of unique endangered biodiversity and contains living fossils from the ancient Gondwana Rainforests that are found nowhere else on Earth. We must not let the Government destroy this part of our environment. It is quite unbelievable that we would let this happen when we can have the highway bypass follow the route that passes through cleared land and hor cultural areas as was decided following the original consulta on and assessments,

“It’s not too late, in fact we are just in me to do the right thing. If we wrongfully con nue with the current proposed route; only then will it be too late - for these very special parts of our environment” Ms Higginson said.

Moruya RSL Sub Branch News

Remember the Moruya RSL Sub Branch mee ngs are held at the Moruya RSL Memorial Hall at 11Page St Moruya on the third Tuesday of the month. We welcome any visitors to our mee ngs who are veterans or serving personnel from the Armed Services.

Read the Beagle for further news of the Moruya RSL over the coming months towards Anzac Day

VOLUNTEER to HELP WILDLIFE, become a Rescuer and Carer

We need your help to help our Wildlife. The WIRES Rescue and Immediate Care Course (RICC) is WIRES introductory wildlife rescue and immediate care training. It is mandatory for all new WIRESvolunteers wan ng to start rescuing and caring for wildlife.

A one day RICC will be held in Batemans Bay, Saturday 4th March 2023. Another will be held later in the year, Saturday 1st July, 2023.

For more informa on please visit WIRES at www.wires.org.au or www.wires.org.au/rescue/become-a-rescuer

**Past Members and Former RICC Par cipants

It is now faster and easier for past members to rejoin WIRES and for those who have previously completed the RICC to ac vate their membership if they would like to get involved as ac ve rescuers and carers.

If it has been less than 2 years since you completed the WIRES RICC you can re-join or ac vate your membership by emailing members@wires.org.au.

If it has been more than 2 years since you completed the course you can re-join or ac vate your membership a er comple ng

delivered 100% online.

the WIRES RICC Refresher, which is

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 8.0012.00 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

Eurobodalla Shire Council Mayor Mat Hatcher, along with the Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips and the Member Bega, Dr Michael Holland, welcomed 18 new Aussies on January 26th at a ceremony in the forecourt of the Moruya Chamber. Above: pledging ci zenship under a sunny blue Eurobodalla sky.

Also announced today, the winner of the Fergus Thomson Heritage Award. Congratula ons to Gary Traynor who received his award from Yvonne Thomson.

Are you interested in Photography

Are you a seasoned photographer or a smart phone happy snapper? If you have an interest in photography, why not come along to Narooma Camera Club’s first ou ng for 2023 and meet our members.

Handkerchief Beach Picnic Area Sunday 5 February 4 pm Bring your camera, food and drinks

For further informa on call Maree 0435 835 815 or Michelle 0409 020 458

Locals, grab ckets to NRL trial match

More than 3,000 ckets to the NRL preseason match at Moruya have been sold, with half the crowd expected to come from out of town.

Moruya’s Ack Weyman oval is currently closed for prepara on to host the Canberra Raiders and Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs on Sunday 12 February.

Eurobodalla Mayor Mathew Hatcher said it was great to see so many spectators coming from out of town.

“More than half of the cket sales are from people outside Eurobodalla, which is great for our area, but we don’t want locals to miss out,” he said.

“Get your ckets quick, because I’m feeling this’ll be a sell-out event.”

Above: Canberra Raiders pu ng in the hard yards at training recently, ready for the preseason match. Image: Raiders media.

Tickets are capped at 5000 and won’t be sold at the gates. Buy ckets via Eventbrite.

“If you’re not tech savvy, find someone to give you a hand buying ckets online,” Mayor Hatcher said.

“You could also pop into your local library and use a computer there too.”

Ge ng to the game will be easy, thanks to Marshalls Bus and Coach Company who have prepared a bus schedule with ckets available on their website.

There will be two accessible sea ng sites and drop off points with Council’s mobility mats that are used on beaches, rolled out to help people across the so grass.

Mayor Hatcher looked forward to the under 21s Jersey Flegg game kicking off the day at 1.45pm.

“It’ll be great to see upcoming stars of Rugby League out to impress before the main game,” he said.

“I can’t wait to see everyone enjoy the spectacle of professional football at one of our local grounds.

“There’s full bar services provided by our local clubs, an oyster and champagne bar as well as pre and mid-game entertainment – it’ll be big with some local talent!”

Proceeds from the event will go to local Group 16 clubs.

Jan 28th - Dave Berry – Tomakin Club (7.30pm)

Jan 28th - DJ Jo Jo Karaoke – Tuross Club (7.30pm)

Jan 28th - DJ Ma Brown at Batemans Bay Soldiers Club

Jan 28th - Flock of Haircuts at Club Catalina 2pm

Jan 28th - Mick McGrath at the One Tree Inn, Tuross Head

Jan 29th -Rick Bamford – Club Tuross (4pm)

Jan 29th - Felicity Dowd at Tomakin Social Club

Feb 1st - Chamber Philharmonia Cologne (Germany) at the Anglican Church, Batemans Bay. 8pm. h ps://www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/999318

A er several successful European tours in 2019 and 2020 the Chamber Philharmonia Cologne (Germany) is coming back to Australia in summer 2023 with a powerful and lovely new programme. Tickets $40

Feb 3rd - DJ Ma Brown at Batemans Bay Soldiers Club

Feb 3rd - Jamie Parkinson – Tomakin Club (7.30pm)

Feb 4th - Pla num Duo at Batemans Bay Soldiers Club

Feb 4th - Driving Sideways at Club Malua (7.30pm)

Feb 4th - Rod Folpp – Tuross Club (7.30pm)

Feb 5th - Steve Benic – Tomakin Club (2pm)

Feb 11th - Sirenics at Club Malua

Feb 18th - Flock of Haircuts at Club Malua

Mar 5th - Kingswood at Smokey Dan's, Tomakin

Mar 24th to 26th 2023 - Moruya Blues and Roots Fes val at the Moruya Waterfront Hotel

Cobargo Folk

Fes val March 3rd to 5th

2023 TICKETS ON SALE

Fes vals come in all shapes and sizes, from the large spectaculars where thousands dance in front of huge stages with giant sound systems and dazzling light shows, to those like ours, smaller and more in mate, and where everyone who steps over through the gate makes their own unique contribu on to crea ng the event.

We think our fes val is very special.

What began 28 years ago as a street fes val in the historic main street of Cobargo has grown into a joyful three-day celebra on of folk and roots music, song, dance, cra and more in the relaxed Sapphire Coast hinterland of New South Wales. Proudly produced and presented by the Yuin Folk Club Inc since 1996, the Cobargo Folk Fes val is wholly volunteer-run, independent and non-commercial. Any profits we make go to helping grow music and art in our beau ful region.

Our fes val is a place where you can immerse yourself in a range of different experiences, camp and reconnect with family and friends, join other musos in a pick or a session, perhaps with a couple of performers, enjoy a drink and some great food. Along with our concerts and an enthralling First Na ons program featuring the Yuin Elders’ Yarning Tent, we have workshops open to all, KIDBARGO! – our kids’ fes val and The Crossing Youth Stage, where you might spot an emerging young ar st with a shiny career ahead.

Authen c, original, crea ve, inspiring – come and join us in 2023. From our hearts to yours with love from a bunch of local folk who care. T

IX PRE-PURCHASED ONLINE ARE CHEAPER THAN GATE TICKETS. ALL CAMPERS MUST PRE-PURCHASE A WEEKEND TICKET PLUS CAMPING ONLINE. ONCE SOLD OUT NO FURTHER CAMPING TICKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE GATE STRICTLY NO PETS ALLOWED ON SITE – you will be directed to leave immediately

Fes val Site Ticket Office Hours Thursday 2nd March: 10.00am to 6pm – campers allowed on site from 10 am Friday 3rd March: 8.00am to10.30pm Saturday 4th March: 8.00am to 10.00pm Sunday 5th March: 8.00am to 2.00pm

Gadfly 271 By Robert Macklin

Jacinda Ardern’s announcement of her standing down as New Zealand’s PM was quite a surprise. Kiwi journos tell us that she had lost some popularity at home; and while that might indeed be true, can you imagine a John Howard, Kevin Rudd, Tony Abbott, Scott Morrison or Malcolm Turnbull voluntarily departing the limelight and the levers of power, much less a Vladimir Putin or a pretend emperor Xi Jinping, just because they were on the voters’ nose?

Not, I suggest, in a million years.

Of course, they’re all blokes, but that’s only part of it. I’m happy to accept her version that after five and a half years at the top: “I know what this job takes. And I know that I no longer have enough in the tank to do it justice. It’s that simple.’

But it’s the manner of her leaving that’s truly impressive. It’s not just a gender thing, even though it’s curiously reminiscent of Ash Barty’s decision to leave tennis at the top of her game. Somehow, the Kiwis have created a system where parliamentary democracy has found a rare graciousness beyond the raw struggle for majority power.

In this case it extends beyond the polite transfer of leadership from Ardern to Chris Hipkins (I guess that’s Kiwi for Hopkins) the kid from Hutt which we’re told is ‘a lower socio-economic region in the capital’s north’. The new Deputy PM, Carmel Sepuloni is a product of a Tongan, Samoan and Pakeha ancestry. ‘It’s very hard to fathom that a workingclass girl from Waitara can become the deputy prime minister of New Zealand,” Sepuloni said.

Maybe so. But compare that with Australia, where until the Albanese Government came along Aboriginal women were virtually invisible in the councils of government. Perhaps it’s significant that it was New Zealand that gave women the right to vote in 1893 some nine years before Australia in 1902.

In each case, the British landgrab was at least in part a strategic thrust against its traditional French competitor. And in New Zealand’s case, this was a factor in the negotiation with the Maori in the Treaty of Waitangi. We’re still awaiting such a Treaty with the Aboriginal people and Waitangi complicated the possible incorporation of the two colonies in the Australian Federation.

But we’ve always had a fascinating relationship with ‘Aotearoa’ (which is itself an equally valid name for NZ these days). It sometimes feels as though they’re a kind of conscience against which to measure our national proclivities. Their relationships with America and China, for example, seem somehow more principled – they decline to host US nuclear warships and market Chinese gooseberries as Kiwifruit – yet they’re so nice about it they escape unscathed from both.

At the same time, we love competing against them on the sporting arenas, be it netball where we usually win or rugby where we invariably lose. And we love pinching their talents and claiming them for our own, like our first Labor PM Chris Watson who migrated here at 19; entertainers Rebecca Gibney, Keith Urban, Russell Crowe and the mighty Phar Lap; to say nothing of the mouth-watering comestibles like the Pavlova, the Lamington, the Anzac biscuit and of course the Flat White cup of coffee.

But above all, it’s the quality that Jacinda Ardern wanted most to be remembered for that seems to elude our political practitioners: ‘As someone who always tried to be kind,’ she said.

I guess that’s it in a nutshell…or a kiwifruit.

robert@robertmacklin.com

Reading—A beer with Baz

Mick was engrossed in a copy of ‘Spare’ by Prince Harry, as Bazza landed the schooners. He nodded a ‘G’day’ and returned to reading.

“I will just finish this chapter, Bazza.”

Mick took a sip, turned a page and his audible ‘tut tuts’ had Bazza smiling.

“Reading the sequel to ‘Oliver Twist’, eh Mick?”

Mick shook his head and con nued reading as ‘Know All Ron’ and ‘Timeless Tom’ joined them.

Ron sipped his schooner and rubbed his chin.

“Well……that’s another Australia Day done and dusted, Bazza.”

“Yeah Ron…….it seems to be a day of either lamb chop barbecues or demonstra ons. A na onal day should unify a country. I reckon we need a different approach.”

Tom leaned in.

“Well Bazza…..there are other ways to cook lamb you know. You could extend the menu to lamb curries, Morrocan lamb or a favourite of mine, slow cooked Greek lamb shoulder.”

Bazza furrowed his brow.

“Ahh…… yeah, Tom celebra ng our range of cultures is a good start but I reckon we should talk about the date.”

Ron splu ered his beer and eyeballed Bazza.

“I suppose you want to change the date for Australia Day, Bazza. Bloody typical of you…… and it was noted that you were not flying the Australian Flag at your place yesterday.”

Bazza took a generous sip.

“Well we won’t get into that one, Ron, but changing the date will not change the history. We could argue ‘invasion’ or ‘se lement’ for hours but there is no doubt our First Na ons People are affronted by a celebra on on the 26th January. I reckon Noel Pearson’s sugges on that the 25th and 26th January be both recognised as na on days is worth considering.”

Tom’s eyes beamed.

“What…… allocate two public holidays, Bazza?”

“Yeah, Tom. The 25th January to recognise more than 60,000 years of con nuous culture of our First Na ons People and the 26th January to recognise the mul cultural country we have become. I reckon the two days can be jus fied. If necessary, we can do without the Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday which was never celebrated on her birth date and besides, we now have a King.”

Ron rubbed his head.

“What do you reckon about changing the dates for Australia Day Mick?”

Mick carefully bookmarked his copy of ‘Spare’, took a long sip, cleared his throat and enjoyed the elongated silence.

“I totally agree to changing the dates…….. I blame Captain Arthur Phillip.”

Bazza’s schooner and bo om jaw dropped simultaneously.

“You see fellas……if Captain Arthur Phillip had waited un l Friday or even the Monday to set foot on Sydney Cove, we would not have this problem of a public holiday on a Thursday.”

Acknowledge: h ps://thenewdaily.com.au/finance/2023/01/26/australia-day-two-day-fes val-kohler/

Have a beer with Bazza at john.longhurst59@gmail.com

Low Cost Housing

The Beagle Editor,

I applaud Mayor Mathew Hatcher seeking a solu on for those Eurobodalla residents who struggle to get a roof over their head especially those who suffered from the bush fires.

May I make a sugges on?

The Council owns the site of what was the Batemans Bay Bowling Club in the Batemans Bay Central Business District.

The Local Government Superannua on Fund owns Batemans Bay's large shopping centres and presumably its Funds have capital to invest. If the Council, on behalf of the ci zens of Eurobodalla, put in the land and the Local Government Superannua on Fund which must make a good return from the rent ul mately paid by Batemans Bay consumers, financed on a commercial basis a unit development on that land, it would be a "win win" for everyone.

Mayor Hatcher must appreciate that the recent real estate boom on the coast is going to flood his rate coffer nicely so he should not need to argue that the Council needs to sell the land rather than donate it to the needy.

He could be seen as a li le "needy" as we in Batemans Bay have recently "profited" by well over one billion dollars of NSW Liberal Government funds for bridges, roadworks and a splendid arts and aqua c centre.

John Haslem Batemans Bay Ci zen

100 Years Ago January 27th 1923

THE following pupils from the Dwyer’s Creek Public School passed the Qualifying Cer ficate Examina on: - Mary Foreman, Walter Summers and Pearl Henry.

OWING to the outbreak of pleuro in the district, the Tilba A., P. & H. Society has decided to eliminate all ca le sec ons from their exhibi on on the 14th and 15th Feb.

FARMERS and se lers declare that the present method of destroying rabbits with poison are doing more harm than good. The poison carts which go out to spread the poison for the destruc on of the rabbits leave in their train a collec on of dead jackasses, goannas, and other birds, which aid the farmer in his fight with Nature’s pests. Goannas in par cular, says one farmer, are farmers’ friend in the war against the rabbit. They descend a rabbit burrow and eat as many as a li er of 19 young rabbits at one meal.

MRS. S. Lou t, whose capability with the sewing needle is so well known, with her sister, Miss Lily Keyte, no fy that they will open a dressmaking establishment at Gundary on 1st Feb.

ALL the Public Schools in this district resumed work on Monday. No change in the personnel was made at these ins tu ons, but at the Convent School, which re-opens Monday next, almost a complete change in the management and teaching was effected. Sister M. Basil, sister of the late Mr. R. N. Carden, has been appointed Mother Superior.

ON Thursday night, Mr. John Smith, a well-known and much respected resident of Moruya, passed to his reward at the age of 78 years. Born in Tipperary, Ireland, he came to this country in 1866. He resided in this district for 48 years and was always found to be of an upright and charitable disposi on, being loved and admired by all classes of the community. … A widow, six sons, William (Moruya), John (Woy Woy), Daniel (Sydney), Bernard (Shellharbor), Darcy (Sydney), Clement (Newcastle) and four daughters Miss Mary (Moruya), Mrs. Hughes (Rozelle), Mrs. Ashton (Dundas) and Mrs. Freeman (Sydney) are le to mourn the loss of a devoted husband and father.

MORUYA COTTAGE HOSPITAL - …Matron reported pa ents in the hospital Nov. 30th 4, admi ed since last report 9, total treated 13, discharged recovered since last report 7, remaining in hospital December 31st 6. House Commi ee – Reported at me of visit everything in sa sfactory order. More wood was required to be cut up into lengths and split up. Door of morgue requires re-fi ng. The new bath is now being fi ed in and the floor covered with lead. More assistance is required at the hospital to cope with the work. It was decided to write to the Immigra on Bureau asking if they could supply a suitable woman to help.

Extracted from the Moruya Examiner by the Moruya and District Historical Society Inc. h ps:// www.mdhs.org.au

ons 38 OUT NOW

South Coast History Society Recollec

South Coast History Society is ‘off to a flying start’ this year.

In addi on to producing their February/March 2023 issue of ‘Recollec ons’ (a ached) they’re about to launch a new book ‘Fascina ng Bega: The Anatomy of a Town 1851 – 2023’ which the Society have co-produced with Bega Valley Historical Society

The Society has also scheduled a couple of history-based bus tours of Bega and return to 2023 with their free Monday Morning Movies in Merimbula that resume on 6th February… Keep in mind that the South Coast History Day is on March 25th, 2023. And that’s not to men on several talks they’re giving to community groups and their presence at the Bega Show.

Peter Lacey of the South Coast History Society said "The incredibly high level of support we are receiving from the community con nually encourages us and enables us to share and promote the South Coast’s very interes ng history – and, for that support, we thank you very much"

Register to automa cally receive future copies of Recollec ons by email—Simply email ‘Send Recollec ons’ to southcoasthistory@yahoo.com. It’s free! Or subscribe and they’ll post copies to you. Send your cheque for $20 to South Coast History Society, 90 Whitby Wilson Road, Quaama NSW 2550, along with your name and address, to receive paper copies of the next six issues of Recollec ons.

Back Issues of Recollec ons are available, free, in PDF format at www.bit.ly/Recollec onsX where X is the issue number (1 to 37, except for Issue 3 which is 3- and Issue 10 which is 10-). Recollec ons 38 will be available to non-subscribers at one of the many outlets across the region.

Narooma Gallery presents: Frida & Feathers

Perpetua (Pe ) McInnes and Donna Goulding exhibit new work together for the first me at the Narooma Gallery. Diverse works, both ar sts explore character, belonging, and personal strength.

Un l Sunday, January 29, 2023 4:00 PM

Narooma School of Art & Soldier's War Memorial Hall Inc92 Campbell Street, Narooma

Goulding’s works are an interpreta on of Frida Khalo’s life. Khalo is a muse, model and leader for many women and a source of inspira on for countless ar sts. Goulding states: I am interested in the life of Frida Kahlo as she is a strong woman like me, and she inspires me to create and be honest. Frida Kahlo’s strong poli cal, intellectual and deeply patrio c views always sought to be a strong voice for oppressed women. Self-taught, her pain ng allowed Frida to overcome and alleviate severe physical and psychological pain caused by a debilita ng accident.

A er a 30 year career in Fes val and Event management, McInnes has recommi ed to her con nued love of crea ng and pain ng. The works for this exhibi on are an explora on of colour movement. They express McInnes’ fascina on with birds, which on observa on are like humans, each bird has their own clans and personali es.

Ar st talk gathering

All are welcome to come along and listen to the ar sts talk about their work and stay for drinks and a sausage sizzle immediately a er.

Saturday 21 January 5:30 pm - 7:00pm

Image credits:

Le : Donna Goulding, Frida (detail), 2022, acrylic, 300 mm H x 150 mm W. Photograph the Ar st

Right: Perpetua McInnes, Inquisi ve (detail), 2022, oil, 610 mm H x 1220 mm W. Photograph the Ar st

A day of FREE crea ve arts session for Aboriginal youth aged 12-24.

28 January 10AM-4m Lunch provided Narooma Surf Life Saving Club

Work with Elders, Knowledge Holders and local ar sts to learn more about local cultural history and stories. Create content for a new exhibi on featuring digital projec ons. light and sound.

Info & bookings: Ashweeni Mason 0499 356 279 or Jazz Williams 0497 281 464

Marking Country is presented by South East Arts

Tennis Fun Days and new online booking to serve yourself some free tennis

Tennis court hire has become a whole lot easier with an online booking system. Eurobodalla Council is celebrating the launch of the new booking system with free court hire on Saturday and Sunday 28-29 January. Available courts include: Batemans Bay, Malua Bay, Broulee, Bodalla, Tuross Head, Dalmeny and Narooma.

With eyes currently on the Australian Open, Council’s recreation development coordinator Tina Smith said it was perfect timing to promote tennis in our shire.

“We’re encouraging people to give the new online registration and booking process a go and have some fun on the courts for free,” Ms Smith said.

“All you need to do is book online, punch a code into the lock of the tennis court gate and away you go.”

The online process is a big change from having to book through a local shop or servo and paying with cash to collect a court key. Once you’ve registered online, Ms Smith said it’s easy to book other courts around Australia – which is handy when travelling!

If you’re completely new to tennis or looking to get back into it, tennis clubs will be holding open days and could lend some gear.

“Reach out to your local tennis club to see what they have planned for their open day,” Ms Smith said.

Malua Bay’s two courts will be open for everyone on Saturday 28 January between 4pm-8pm, with no need to book. President Ken Foster said their club will host a series of matches, competitions and games.

“There’s no restrictions on age or ability - it’ll be a fun day,” Mr Foster said.

Thanks to Tennis NSW, clubs received funding to host an open day. Malua Bay has organised a sausage sizzle, squid and chips van as well as coffee and cakes to feed everyone for free.

“It’d be great to see new members join after the weekend,” Mr Foster said.

“Our members come from as far as Batehaven and Broulee; we all have the common desire to have a good laugh, a good time and good coffee together.”

Tuross Head Tennis Club, in associa on with Tennis NSW, will be having an open day on Sunday 29th January.

Free Tennis Family Fun day at Malua Bay Jan 28th

Malua Bay Tennis Club will be welcoming people of all ages and abili es, who enjoy a game of tennis, on Saturday 28 January from 4pm to 8pm. Come along for a fun

filled free a ernoon of tennis, free refreshments for all players, thanks to Anne e and Henry Thompson in their Squid ‘n Round Van serving Squid and Chips, Sausage Sizzle and so drinks also Mar na Ciccarelli in her Coffee Van serving Coffee and cakes!

Come along and join in the fun!

Hotondo Broulee Bay to Breakers Ocean Swim March 12th

The 11th annual ocean swim bringing together a community of people with the shared enjoyment of the ocean, par cipa on and fitness.

The Hotondo Broulee Bay to Breakers Ocean Swim on Sunday 12th March 2023 from 9:00am. This year the event will see more than 400 people take to the water.

Get your Hotondo Broulee Bay to Breakers Swim entries in now.

Entries close on Friday 3 March 2023 and there are no late entries nor on the event day. Cash prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd in the open. Cash prizes for the fastest Age Division Swimmer. Medals for Junior, Noice and Flipper swimmers. Swim waves determined by age group and gender.

The 1.4km swim course starts at Shark Bay on Broulee Island swimming over the reef and behind the breakers before swimming to the finish line on the sands of South Broulee (Bengello) Beach. This ocean swim is run by the volunteers of Broulee Surfers Surf Life Saving Club. Condi ons can vary from a peacefully calm swim to south-easterly chop and swell making for a challenging swim. If the condi ons are judged to be risky the swim is moved to an alterna ve, safer site.

The event will be subject to Government and SLS NSW COVID 19 requirements. As the requirements are updated the website will be updated. If the event is cancelled the registra on fee will be refunded. www.iga.com.au/

Tight Finish In Tuross Head Vets Golf Stableford Event

In what was a closely fought Stableford event at Tuross Head Vets Golf on Wednesday 25 January, five players ed on 17 points requiring mul ple count backs to determine the finishing order. Winner on the day was Teri Swanbury from Ron Hanlon, Graham Moore and Herb Muriwai.

Minor prizes went to Steve Gardner also on 17, followed by Len Rogers with 16, Des Jackson on 15, and then the following players all on 14 points: Ross Hendy, Jane Egli s, Paul Coffey, Peter Coffey, Ken Hush, Neal Watson, Dorothy Madden, Ted Quinlan and finally Chris Wra en.

Ray Downey suffered at the hands of the handicapper to take out the infamous Bradman award with nearest the pins going to Ken Brown on the 4th, Jeane e Miller on the 6th, and to Jeane e Miller and Steve Swanbury on the 7th. Steve Johnston won the Accurate drive.

Broulee Runner’s Results

Wednesday 25 January 2023

Hot humid condi ons confronted the 49 actual starters in this evening’s event. Therefore, personal best me were hard to come by except for Evelyne Carton in the 2-kilometres and Sanda Halpin in the 3kilometres.

It was family night with at least three members par cipa ng. These families were the close knit Merzs, the flying Birks, the talented Johnsons, the flee ooted MacKay’s, and the top Gunn’s,.

Broulee runners excel in Surf lifesaving compe on with several families compe ng in the Carnival at Foster. We look forward to seeing their results. It is understood that the Aitkin, Beby, Carver, Domeny families and others will represent the district.

Winner Teri Swanbury

Moruya River.

How ever you choose to spend yesterday, I hope you made the most of it. We had a very busy day in the store, which has con nued what has been a very busy holiday period for us. The walls in the store are star ng to show signs of a busy season, and we are wai ng for freight to help top them back up again. The river has been fishing very well again this week, from the mouth all the way up into the mountains, there has been something for everyone. In the salty sec ons, bream, flathead, trevally, estuary perch, whi ng and tailor have all been available to those spending some me along the banks or on the water. There has been no real go to spot this week, as every part of the river has held the same chance at finding fish as any other. For the visi ng anglers, please make sure you are aware of the areas you can and can’t fish! I have spoken with several anglers this week, how have been fishing within the sanctuary zones, not realising they were doing so! The areas are usually pre y well sign posted, and ignorance will not stop fisheries from throwing the book at you, if you are caught fishing in the wrong area!

Preddy’s wharf, quarry wharf and the town wharf have all fished well this week, while the flats under the town bridge have also produced some good flathead, bream and the odd estuary perch.

Up in the sweet water, the Bass guys have been having some all me fun, with plenty of bass being taken on surface lures later in the a ernoon and spinnerbaits, hardbody lures, so plas cs and even the good old scrub worm during the day. Please remember that there is a daily bag limit of 2 fish per angler, with only 1 fish allowed to be over 35cm in size in rivers if you are going to take a feed.

Check out Chris Bamman’s latest YouTube video, for an idea of the bass season we have been having to date. Tuross River.

Tuross has been on fire this week from all reports! Flathead, bream, trevally and finally some cracker whi ng for those that have managed to get them to bite. The whi ng are there in big numbers, but the consensus of reports has been that they have been a bit hesitant to hit surface lures this week. Live nippers seems to have been the best bait op on this week, with plenty of refusal on the surface gear. Hopefully as water temps con nue to increase the surface bite will kick into overdrive!

The hole in front of the boat sheds has produced some nice flathead, Luderick and the odd mulloway this week, while the areas around four-ways has produced some very nice bream, flathead, estuary perch and again the odd mulloway in the holes,, snags and sand flats.

The areas around Bumbo have seen again some nice flathead, bream, estuary perch and the odd mulloway. As you can see, the whole system is firing at the moment, so get amongst it to get a feed for yourself, of just enjoy a great past me.

The bass boys and girls have also been having a great me of it in the fresh water part of Tuross, with plenty of good bass being taken this summer also. Rock and Beach.

Salmon on the beaches con nue to be the main stay for beach anglers, but the bream and whi ng are well on the chew now that the water temps have spiked. No par cular beach has been producing anymore than any other beach this week, and it has been a ma er of hurrying up and wai ng for the fish to come past where you are.

The Moruya breakwall has been producing some nice flathead and Trevally for those who know where to look, while bream and salmon have also been taken on the beach side further along the wall.

Offshore.

The gamefish season is in full swing at the moment, with the Marlin bite going off at the moment. From all reports the Tollgate Island classic that has just been run was a huge success with plenty of Billfish tagged. For the inshore crews, there have been good numbers of snapper in around 40-50m of water now that the temps have climbed, while in closer there have been good catches of sand and ger flathead in as li le as 10m of water.

We will be ge ng another drop of Kings product next week, so the gear we are currently out of will, for the most part be restocked. We have a new range of bite en cer rigs that are perfect for the estuary bait angler wan ng to chase bream, whi ng and even flathead, so come in store and check them out. The new Daiwa Jigheads are selling well, and by all reports hold a so plas c really well, and are strong and sharp.

We are con nuing our search for someone to join the Tackle World Moruya team, so if you think this might be of interest to yourself or someone you know, please feel free to get in contact with us. Stay safe everyone and remember, “everyday’s a good day for fishing…” Team Tackle World Moruya.

OUT NOW—your latest Beagle Abode : Eurobodalla’s leading real estate guide

The beagle abode is an online weekly Eurobodalla real estate guide showcasing the current Eurobodalla market and our many realtors.

The beagle abode is the new addi on to the South Coast Beagle that owns The Beagle and the South Coast Travel Guide: The Nature Coast of NSW : from Durras to The Tilbas

The Beagle Abode has been established to provide that service while also providing our readers with a glossy overview of latest proper es on the market each week.

You can find Beagle Abode on the Beagle website under REAL ESTATE

The latest Beagle Abode lis ngs are also available each week as a FlipBook on the website and also distributed to readers via our social media pages and our twice weekly mailouts.

CLICK HERE:

h ps://www.beagleweekly.com.au/real-estate

South Coast Property Specialists (Carlene Franzen)

Tips #1131:

National Housing Supply and Affordability Council

Last week we provided a quick update on the impact that the Federal Government’s Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee and the State Government’s Stamp Duty reforms are having on the property market. A few weeks ago the Federal Government also announced the board members of the new interim National Housing Supply and Affordability Council. (Note: The government has explained that the interim measure is intended to operate “until the council is established permanently in legislation”.)

The Chairperson of the Council will be Ms Lloyd-Hurwitz who is currently the CEO of Mirvac Group and a member of the steering committee for Property Champions of Change. She has previously been on the board of the Property Council of Australia and the Green Building Council of Australia, as well as held positions at Macquarie Bank. Other board members are listed below, and it really shows the diversity of experience that the government is looking for in trying to address Australia’s housing issues:

 Professor Rachel ViforJ – economist and member of the steering committee for the Asia-Pacific Network for Housing Research

 Helen Waters Silvia – CEO of the Women’s and Girls’ Emergency Centre

 Dr Marcus Spiller – urban economist, planner, and former member of the National Housing Supply Council

 David O’Loughlin – Urban Renewal Authority director, former president of the Australian Local Government Association

The draft legislation for the establishment of the Housing Australia Future Fund, Housing Australia, and the National Housing Supply and Affordability Council is expected to be introduced into Parliament in early 2023, according to Minister for Housing Julie Collins. Ms Collins said: “Having a safe and affordable place to call home is critical for Australians……We want to ensure our investments are underpinned by expert advice.”

Let’s all hope that this expert panel can really provide advice that the government can implement to address the ever-growing problem of housing supply (for purchase and rental), and also the affordability for people who are looking to purchase or rent.

Automotive

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Excavation

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Pest Control

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TV Antenna

The Beagle business and trades Directory a to z

Waste Management

Late entries

The Beagle Trades and Business Directory provides local Trades and Businesses a free lis ng in a hope that they might gain work from it, and con nue to provide employment and economic benefit to their families and our communi es. Adver sing is usually outside the affordability of many smaller businesses and sole traders. The Beagle supports locals. These lis ngs are FREE. If you are a local business and would like to be listed please contact us as we o en turn over these lis ngs to give everyone a fair go. Email beagleweeklynews@gmail.com Trades and Businesses can also list themselves on the Beagle Trades and Business Group in Facebook at h ps://www.facebook.com/groups/1303512213142880/