Arts ……………………. 27 to 30
Cinema ……………….. 19,20
Community ………………4 to 11
Reading ……………………..21 to 26
Real Estate…. 36 No ces…… 39
Food ………………………...31,32
Sport and Fishing………. 33 to 35
Editorial …………………..2,3
What’s On …………….... 12 to 18
Facts are interes ng when you look at them, especially when combined together with others to offer a wider perspec ve, and to even contribute, or sway, a possible outcome.
The 2012 Census told us that, on census night, there were 40,593 residents comprising 11,318 families.
On that night there were 16,603 occupied houses, and most interes ngly there were 6226 unoccupied private dwellings. Empty, no-one there. Maybe there were locals who had gone away for winter, but then most likely they were holiday houses and short term rentals wai ng for summer to come around again.
The interes ng thing about that figure is that, comparing apples to apples, on Census Night 2021 a total of 27.3% of our houses were empty, compared to the NSW average percentage of 9.4%
Source: h ps://www.abs.gov.au/census/find-census-data/quickstats/2021/LGA12750
Now we need to get this in context. Census night in 2021 was a Tuesday on the 10 August 2021. Days in August that year were around 18C, and overnight around 4.5C. There would have been very few holiday makers. From these figures one might therefore conclude that the vacant houses were indeed Short-term stay accommoda on or family holiday homes.
We learnt more in June 2022, Council reported that there were 8,500 non-resident ratepayers who owned houses in the shire. Without doubt some of those are rented out permanently as investment proper es, but to learn that on Census night there were 6226 vacant houses indicates that there is a considerable number of non-resident ratepayer proper es that are holiday homes and short stay rentals.
In June 2022 the Eurobodalla Mayor, Mat Hatcher, said that some councils around the country, like Brisbane and Byron Bay, are using the regula ons available to them to push holiday rentals onto the permanent rental market by reducing the days they can be available for holiday stays, but that he wanted the NSW Government to take the lead.
New NSW Planning rules introduced last year now require owners of residen al accommoda on, who rent out their property temporarily for commercial gain, to register their property and pay an annual registra on fee via the NSW Planning Portal. This move is to ensure the rentals and hosts are accountable to their tenants and to the adjacent community. Addi onally it comes with a complaints register and the bonus that occupancy rates are recorded and rental income is cross linked to the taxa on department.
Presently, according to the website AirDNA, there are 1224 ac ve, registered, short term rentals in Eurobodalla. That means that there are s ll a swag of unregistered Short term rentals and holiday houses out there.
Eurobodalla, like the rest of the country, is suffering a housing crisis. We don’t have houses to accommodate our own workers, from baristas to doctors. There is ample employment opportunity, but no where to live. If you then add the infla on, low wage growth and the mortgage rate rises to the equa on you soon discover increased rents driving affordable housing out the window.
So what to do? In 2022 Eurobodalla Council pleaded to owners of holiday homes and short term rentals to consider ren ng to permanents. There was a posi ve ini al response but not response enough to solve an ever growing problem.
We now have a new Labor State Government who have inherited a housing crisis. A crisis where there are not enough affordable houses available for our fixed waged labour force needs. The crisis across the State and across the South East will require some applied thought to find a solu on.
One op on is to put a spotlight on the known. In the case of Eurobodalla the known is the short-stay proper es that are listed on the short-term rental accommoda on (STRA) register.
All local councils in NSW have access to the STRA Register and have a role in enforcing the planning rules, including repor ng an unregistered STRA premises and enforcing a STRA Fire Safety Standard, covering such things as smoke alarms, emergency evacua on informa on or fire ex nguishers. Councils also have access to the register to review ongoing neighbourhood noise complaints.
Con nues…..
While the Register might make short stay rentals safer and more accountable the bonus for Councils and agencies is that it records rental nights and links the property income to the taxa on authority. The risk is therefore on the client if they choose to stay in an unregistered property.
So what would you do if you were a Eurobodalla councillor?
What if you had a housing crisis, that there are few rentals, there was high unemployment and a higher propor on of the shire living in rental accommoda on on fixed incomes, knowing that every week you have more and more dri ing into homelessness?
If you were a councillor would you consider placing pressure on those 6226 unoccupied private dwellings of the 2021 Census? How might you do it?
For a start you would have access to the STRA Register. You could immediately move to rate those proper es with a Business Ra ng, a er all they are a business like any warehouse or shop front, genera ng income from their services. That single move would put pressure on Short stay rentals to consider moving across to permanent tenancy. Can this be done? Victoria is doing it.
The next op on would be to support, at a NSW Planning level, the constraints of maximum rental days per year for those 1224 ac ve, registered, short term rentals in Eurobodalla. Maybe 180 days per year? Maybe the maximum of 60 days per year, as suggested by the Independent Planning Commission for Byron Shire. That might encourage short term rentals to consider their long term op ons.
Surely if there were more permanent rentals on the market the market place would see a downturn in expected weekly rents. Also there would be fewer investment proper es purchased to take advantage of the current lucra ve short stay market. This too might help to keep prices down.
But it isn’t just the housing crisis that will drive our Eurobodalla councillors to consider their op ons.
Eurobodalla Council is facing financial stress. All that was once reported as rosy ain’t so rosy. Council reported at its last mee ng “Similar to most councils throughout the state and indeed the na on, Council faces significant financial challenges in the coming years. Cost of living pressures affect local government just as they do households. It is more expensive to build things, to maintain them, and to run the services our community expects. In March 2023, Councillors and senior staff spent two-half days reviewing the Council’s financial situa on to iden fy a path forward for the shire in response to these challenges”.
In a nutshell Council needs more money from Us. That will come by way of increased fees and charges, increased rates while selling assets, and ra onalising delivery of services, reconstruc ons and renewals.
One place Councillors can look, and most likely will look, is the opportunity to gain more rates from commercial short term rentals sugges ng that the move is to improve housing availability.
What would you do if you were a councillor in a region that runs on tourism and needs its holiday houses and short term rentals?
Mayor, Mat Hatcher brings balance to the argument telling the Bay Post (May 12th 2023) that short-term rentals are “an essen al part of the economy on the South Coast.
"The money flow from the tourism sector is what keeps this place going every year, so we can't simply shut off the tourists from coming here," he said.
"We don't have enough hotels for the tourists who want to come here. We need short-term rentals and we need to look a er locals.
"We should not penalise a young family from Canberra who wanted to come down here and buy a holiday house and use it half the year and spend their money while they're down here."
If you have a solu on to the looming financial crisis and the housing crisis then be sure to write to the Council. Meanwhile we will con nue to flounder between a rock and a hard place. Un l next—lei
A new 6.3 metre walk-through console Naiad (NYE-ADD) boat is closer to going into service at Marine Rescue Batemans Bay on the South Coast a er passing its sea trial.
The Batemans Bay 21 replacement vessel has been put through its paces by Marine Rescue NSW Senior Manager Fleet Kelvin Parkin at Yamba on the state’s north coast.
Parkin said the sea trial phase of a vessel’s construc on is an all-encompassing process to ensure that the finishes, specifica ons, systems, engines and sea capability meets Marine Rescue’s requirements.
BM 21 is a fantas c li le boat, really handled nicely, the crew will really enjoy it, its ergonomics are nice and performed very well on the water,” he said.
Mr Parkin said that BM 21 has been designed to be a mul -purpose vessel.
“It can really be very capable on enclosed inshore waters where we may have to help somebody out if they have run out of fuel or ba ery’s flat.
“Also if we need to do a search pa ern and run them inshore but also offshore.
“Quite comfortable to send them offshore up to about seven nau cal miles (13kms) where the crew can capably join in another search and conduct their own searches from these smaller vessels,” Mr Parkin said.
The vessel will be powered by twin 115hp outboard engines capable of reaching speeds of 38 knots.
Batemans Bay 21 also comes with a quick catch system on the trailer which Mr Parkin said makes launch and retrieval safer and easier for Marine Rescue volunteers.
“You drive the boat straight onto the trailer, it latches directly onto the trailer once you get into posi on and you drive away.
“It removes any chance of anybody ge ng their fingers in the way, you stay dry and you’re away into the carpark, secure the boat and you’re done,” he said.
Members from Marine Rescue Batemans Bay are set to undergo induc on and training on the new vessel in the coming weeks before the boat goes into ac ve service, replacing the exis ng BM 21 Cobia open RHIB boat.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said it’s important the service turns over its vessels regularly.
“This new vessel will really add to the capability of Batemans Bay.
“It’s great for the unit and for the volunteers and for the boa ng community in the local area that we've got this great new asset for that area,” Commissioner Barrell said.
BM 21 is one of 38 new rescue boats funded by the NSW Government’s $37.6 million investment in 2019 to support the vital, life-saving work of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisa on dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and suppor ng local communi es.
Essen al upgrades will be carried out on the Narooma Bridge next month to improve its safety and reliability for all road users.
A Transport for NSW spokesperson said the structure is a key link for locals and tourists, who use the Princes Highway on the South Coast each day.
“Upgrades to the Narooma Bridge include improving the safety barriers on the northern approach and the reloca on of traffic lights to improve visibility in both direc ons,” the spokesperson said.
Work will start on Monday 15 May 2023, with the pilling work around the bridge to be completed in the first two weeks. The upgrade is expected to take 10 weeks to complete, weather permi ng.
To minimise the impact on road users and the community, work will be carried out at night from 7pm to 4am. Transport for NSW aims to complete the noisy component of work before 11pm each night.
During work hours, there will be traffic control, reduced speed to 40 km/h and intermi ent single lane closures to ensure the safety of all those in the area.
Transport for NSW is contac ng nearby residents to provide informa on about the work and discuss how it can help reduce the impacts where possible.
Transport for NSW appreciates the pa ence of the community and motorists during this me.
Community members are encouraged to send any feedback or ques ons they may have regarding this work to Transport for NSW at southprojects@transport.nsw.gov.au
With the World Health Organiza on recently declaring the end of the global health emergency, COORDINARE – South Eastern NSW PHN acknowledged and thanked our region’s health professionals for their significant and ongoing response to the pandemic.
Dr Kathy Michelmore, COORDINARE’s Medical Director said more than 80 percent of vaccina ons against COVID-19 have been administered by general prac oners.
“The figures demonstrate that vaccines and boosters have helped reduce the death rate and hospital admissions, but it is important to remember the COVID-19 pandemic is not over,” she warned.
“Although we are no longer in a health emergency, it is important we all remain vigilant as COVID-19 is s ll present in our communi es and new variants may s ll pose a threat,” said Dr Michelmore.
“By con nuing to receive the COVID boosters our community can con nue to limit the impact of the virus, especially on vulnerable members of our community.
“But there is a risk if we become complacent and if vaccina on rates fall,” she added.
Milton Family Medical Prac ce’s Manager Marion Hatwell said, "Our concern about the end of global health emergency declara on is that sort of thinking could cause our community to become complacent and fall behind in vaccina ons.
“We created mobile vaccina on clinics during the pandemic for those with mobility or transport issues. We’ve decided to con nue our mobile clinics as a permanent service, as we are concerned for those who could fall behind in their protec on from COVID. We con nue to check if pa ents are up-to-date, especially those who don't have regular contact with health professionals. They o en need to top up their COVID boosters,” Ms Hatwell said.
“Whenever we have an influx of tourists we broaden our scope of pa ents who need to be offered vaccines,” she said
If you are an adult and it is more than six months since your last COVID vaccina on and if you haven’t had COVID in that six-month period, talk to your doctor to about topping up your vaccines.
“Boosters are important in maintaining protec on against severe COVID illness and protec ng those at risk of severe illness – that is, everyone aged 65 years and over as well as younger adults who have medical comorbidi es, disability or complex health needs,” said Dr Michelmore.
“We're encouraging people at risk of severe illness from COVID-19 to top up their booster before June this year. COVID isn't a seasonal virus like influenza, but it is possible to have a COVID and flu infec on at the same me. Ge ng vaccinated against both viruses prior to winter is recommended,” she said.
A COVID-19 vaccine can be given at the same me as flu shots and other vaccines.
To book a vaccina on appointment view the COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Service Finder
Local Aboriginal community members have come together on the cultural lands of Brinja Yuin, at the site of the new $260 million Eurobodalla Regional Hospital to share their knowledge about the Aboriginal artefacts and items uncovered during archaeological inves ga ons for the project.
Amanda Bock, Health Infrastructure Execu ve Director of Regional and Rural projects said around 600 artefacts and items have been unearthed during the archaeological works, showing how Aboriginal people lived and worked on this land thousands of years ago.
“Tradi onal owners and Elders along with the Cobowra Local Aboriginal Land Council and other Registered Aboriginal Par es have been working closely with the archaeologists as part of the excava on process to iden fy artefacts and share their cultural knowledge,” Ms Bock said.
“Listening and collabora ng with the local Aboriginal community as we uncover these items has provided a wonderful opportunity to understand and learn more about the region’s rich cultural history, and we are grateful for their generosity in giving their me and sharing their culture and stories.”
Ashleigh Keevers-Eastman, senior heritage consultant at Biosis, said four members of the Biosis team and eight Aboriginal site and cultural officers have been working at the salvage site each day.
“Over four weeks, the team have been involved in digging and sieving through approximately 100sqm of the site, which equates to around 100 salvage pits,” Ms Keevers-Eastman said.
“To date we’ve discovered hundreds of culturally significant items including many stone tools, which shows how Aboriginal people lived and worked on this land thousands of years ago.”
Brinja Yuin/Gadu Elder, Maureen Davis said the wider Aboriginal community from across the Eurobodalla a ended a special gathering on site to hear first-hand from heritage consultants, Biosis, and Brinja Yuin original custodians about the work being conducted and the early discoveries.
“The informa on session was a great opportunity for our local Aboriginal community to gain a be er understanding of the archaeological process happening on site, and importantly to have their ques ons answered by both the experts and knowledge holders,” Ms Davis said.
“The discovery of the artefacts shows clear evidence that our people lived and raised their families here. They travelled along this sec on of the land, taking in the sea coast south of the Moruya River to the Wagonga River at Kianga, extending some five miles inland across the landscape.”
The project team and archaeologists are con nuing to work with Registered Aboriginal Par es to determine what happens next with the discovered items, with archaeological work expected to be completed by the end of the month. Con nues…….
con nues….
Ms Bock said the new hospital is a pilot project for the NSW Government Architect’s Connec ng with Country Framework and thanked the local Aboriginal community for their ongoing contribu on to the design of the hospital to ensure it is a safe and welcoming health facility for the community.
“The par cipa on of the community throughout the planning and design phase is helping to ensure this new hospital becomes a place of healing and wellbeing – where all members of our community feel safe and welcome,” Ms Bock said.
Construc on of the new Eurobodalla Regional Hospital is due for comple on in 2025
We acknowledge the Tradi onal Custodians of the Land, the tribal groups that make up the Yuin Na on, on which the event took place and on which the new Eurobodalla Hospital will be built.
For more informa on about the new Eurobodalla Regional Hospital development please visit the project website: www.eurobodallahs.health.nsw.gov.au
Love hand-made? Love the look of beau fully cra ed mber? Then the annual Tilba Woodwork Show is for you. The Central Halls on the main street of Central Tilba hosts the 27th exhibi on of fine woodwork cra ed by ar sans from north of Batemans Bay to south of Bega.
Exquisite handcra ed items will be both on display and for sale, ranging from small toys to cu ng boards and serving pla ers, from fine jewelry boxes to pens, bowls - both func onal and decora ve, and much more. Come and watch the magic of wood turners at work on the lathes, and stroll through the Exhibi on Hall and vote for your favorite piece on display.
In addi on, the Dalmeny Quilters will once again be special guests and will have a display of their intricately designed quilts and other handmade items, most of which will be for sale.
Enter the raffle for the opportunity to win a variety of great prizes. The entry fee is $2.00 per adult and for children under the age of 16 entry is free.
This week, under the Repurposing for Resilience Friday project, a electrical team from MESA install 32A & 25A 3 phase circuits for a commercial oven and Induction hot plate hob at Ricky’s Place in Bega.
Sharon volunteers her renowned Chefs expertise every week to run both the Kitchen and Garden of Ricky’s Place, which provides free meals for the community of Bega.
Sharon is not only a qualified and well-respected Chef but also a finished artist, having studied at the ANU glass school and journeyed metallurgy; silver & gold smithing for jewellery making over the past 20 years or so.
Sharon has generously gifted her time and skills to assist the Repurposing for Resilience (RfR) on several occasions and in recognition of this and the selfless work of Sharon and the Ricky’s team for the local community there, the RfR team decided it was high time to return a benefit for her collaboration.
The RfR electricians estimate the value of the work to be in the vicinity of $1200.00 and challenge other local small businesses to donate some of their own time and effort to one of the many not-for-profit organisations that contribute so much to our communities.
Have you got a story to tell? Or a poem? Want to write, share and learn in a friendly environment? Come along to a mee ng. New members welcome any me.
Eurobodalla Writers (a Branch of the Fellowship of Australian Writers)
www.eurobodallawriters.org
1st Wednesday of each month 10.30 -1.30 Red Door Hall, Page St, Moruya
1st Monday of each month 6.30 – 8.30 pm various venues Contact Rosie Toth – rosietoth102@gmail.com or 0437627756
Recently the Southerly Busters Branch (south of Sydney to the border) of the Australian Caravan Club took a trek to the annual Drovers’ Campfire Fes val at Boggabri in north west NSW.
Eleven vans and motor homes from the group made the trip which included four recently joined units. They made stopovers at Muswellbrook and Quirindi on the way up and Gunnedah, Galargambone, Parkes and Lake Wallace on the way back, staying several nights at some of these venues and taking in the local sights and really enjoying some of these excep onal country centres..
Started in 2006, the Boggabri Drovers’ Campfire Fes val has become a much an cipated feature for caravanners, motor home owners and travellers along Australia’s highways and byways. The event was the brainchild of Lion Geoff Eather and developed with the support of the Boggabri Lions Club.
This year the Boggabri Lions Club, prepared a wonderful program to keep their visitors entertained during the groups’ four day stay, including also ou ngs to a local coal mine, a long horn steer farm and a sheep shearing exhibi on with the a endees all travelling in the local school bus!
There was entertainment in the evenings provided at the exhibi on hall in the showground which included a Trivia Night, a hypno sm show along with local bands and entertainers on the stage each a ernoon and into the night.
One of the outstanding features of the fes val was how residents of all ages in the small country town combined to make this unique annual event an unqualified success. The profits from the fes val is divided up amongst the local community groups.
These people operated stalls, made dampers and stews in their campfire ovens which was enjoyed by all of the occupants of the 200 plus vans and motor homes who a ended.
The ‘Busters’ have other trips planned this year which include a three week journey along the Victorian side of the Murray River and into South Australia then returning on the NSW in August – September.
There are also local get-togethers along the south coast planned for the coming months with three days at Callala RSL Club during Melbourne Cup Day then finalising the year with a four day Christmas event at Shoalhaven Heads.
Anyone interested in joining the group can contact the secretary at southerlybusters@australiancaravanclub.com.au or ring him on 0428571291
Ray White Batemans Bay and Ray White Moruya want to help raise money for the Cancer Council and help kids and adults affected by cancer.
They will be hosting the event at their Ray White Batemans Bay and Ray White Moruya offices!
If you can’t make the event and would like to donate, please click on the link below!
https://bit.ly/ BiggestMorningTeaRayWhite
They would love your support to help raise money for this amazing cause and look forward to seeing you soon!
www.iga.com.au/
Beat the ‘Winter Blues’ with the first of the Blues at the Kinema concerts on 27 May, hosted by Narooma School of Arts. It features The SunBears, voted favourite blues ‘Emerging Ar st 2022’ by Sydney Blues Society members last year, and Kara Coen, one of the south-east’s most exci ng new female soul ar sts.
Tickets cost $40. Sufficient ckets must be bought by 12 May to ensure the concert goes ahead, so get in quick.
The SunBears are not just another blues band. They have a huge sound that blends George Thorogood passion, a crunch of AC/ DC rawness and a sprinkling of John Mayer soul. Each show is a fully immersive, energe c with an original contemporary blues rock sound. They will entertain you, make you move and most definitely make you love the blues. They opened for Suzie Quatro at The Enmore Theatre, have taken their high energy original contemporary blues sound all over Australia, achieved a number one hit with their latest single ‘Naughty Boy’, and have locked in a European Tour this year.
Kara Coen plays a unique fusion of blues and roots, smooth jazz and pop with a message of love, empowerment and inclusion. Her vocals are intoxica ng with a dynamic powerhouse voice, and lyrics compelling and straight from the heart.
Kara has been called a modern Aretha Franklin and been compared to Amy Winehouse, Janis Joplin and Sarah Blasko. She is currently working on her debut album of original songs and gearing up for her first Australian tour.
The SunBears and Kara Coen Blues concert is at the Kinema on Saturday 27 May.
Doors open 6pm; show starts 6.30pm. There will be bar with wine, beer and cocktails and noodle boxes for vegans, vegos and meat eaters.
Buy ckets online through www.naroomaschoolofarts.com.au, not at the Kinema.
Right: Kara Coen
Coming to Narooma Kinema 27 May – Kara Coen, one of the south-east’s most exci ng new female soul ar sts.
May 13th - Joshua Veneris – Club Malua
May 13th - Rick Bamford at Tomakin Social Club
May 13th - Roddy Reason at Club Tuross
May 13th - Steve Jackson at Moruya Golfy
May 13th - Stru – Club Malua (7.30pm)
May 13th - Totum at Club Catalina
May 19th - Mick McGrath – Club Malua
May 19th - Riff – Soldiers Club (7.30pm)
May 20th - Suede Cats – Club Malua
May 20th - Joe Driscoll at Tomakin Social Club
May 20th - Tony Wade at Club Catalina
May 20th - Michelle Bri – Club Tuross (6.30pm)
May 20th - Joe Driscoll – Tomakin Club (7.30pm)
May 20th - Suede Cats – Club Malua (7.30pm)
May 20th - Riff – Soldiers Club (8pm)
May 20th - Parmy Dillon at Smokey Dans
May 21st - Eurobodalla Live at Moruya Golfy
May 26th - Tim Freedman is coming to Smokey Dan's in Tomakin
May 26th - Jason Maynard – Club Malua
May 27th - Southern Impact – Club Malua
May 27th -Jason Maynard at Tomakin Social Club
May 27th - Vinyl Rain at Club Catalina
May 27th - Creedence and Friends – Batemans Bay Soldiers Club (8pm)
May 27th - Canberra Blues Band SunBears, support by local muso Kara Coen at Narooma Kinema
May 27th - Parmy Dillon at Tukka Cafe
May 27th - RNB Takeover at Moruya Waterfront
May 28th - The Vallies – Batemans Bay Soldiers Club (8pm)
Jun 3rd - AC/DC show at Moruya Golfy
Jun 3rd - The Radiators at Moruya Waterfront
Jun 10th - The Alvey's Farewell Party at the Steampacket
Jun 16th - Bondi Cigars, support by QLD Jake Hoskin at Narooma Kinema
Jun 24th - Rock Show– Batemans Bay Soldiers Club (8pm)
Fri 30th Jun - The INXS Tribute Show @ Moruya Waterfront Hotel
Sat July 29 - Affinity String Quartet 2:30 pm St Paul’s Anglican Church, Narooma
Aug 18th - Geoff Achison at Narooma Kinema
wri en and directed by the Wachowskis[a] in their feature film directorial debut. Violet (Jennifer Tilly), who longs to escape her rela onship with her mafioso boyfriend Caesar (Joe Pantoliano), enters into a clandes ne affair with alluring ex-con Corky (Gina Gershon), and the two women hatch a scheme to steal $2 million of Mafia money.
Bound was the first film directed by the Wachowskis, and they took inspira on from Billy Wilder to tell a noir story filled with sex and violence. Financed by Dino De Lauren is, the film was made on a ght budget with the help of frugal crew members including cinematographer Bill Pope. The directors ini ally struggled to cast the lesbian characters of Violet and Corky before securing Tilly and Gershon. To choreograph the sex scenes, the directors employed sex educator Susie Bright as an ad hoc in macy coordinator, and she also made a cameo appearance in the film.
Bound received posi ve reviews from film cri cs who praised the humour and style of the directors as well as the realis c portrayal of a lesbian rela onship in a mainstream film. Detractors of the film found its plot superficial and cri cized the violence as excessive. The film won several fes val awards.
The ABC has a policy, it seems, that no good news comes from China; they even base their China reporters in Taiwan! So you’ll be forgiven if you missed the short report emerging from Shanghai last week that finally nailed the ACT Government’s insistence on pursuing the 19th century Tram technology that has split the Capital in twain.
They call it ‘light rail’ but it’s not just some harmless ‘virtue signalling’ by the Chief Minister Andrew Barr’s Labor-Green team that has governed Canberra for almost a generation; nor is it simply the arrogance of untrammelled power in an electorate where the Liberals have been dominated by the former right-wing Senator Zed Seselja.
It might have made some sense when Walter Burley Griffin included it in his 1912 plan for the city of a maximum 10,000 inhabitants. Today, as the population approaches 500,000 across a vast expanse of countryside, it would be laughable if Canberrans were not wrestling grimly with government charges that have soared in a vain attempt to pay for the folly.
Here’s the short China report you missed: ‘At the Shanghai auto expo, a local company, CATL unveiled a battery that could propel electric cars more than 1000 kilometres on a single charge. In could even power an electric aircraft. Battery design is like a goldrush at the moment,’ the report said, ‘as researchers push the boundaries of materials chemistry and develop lighter, longer lasting, safer, cheaper batteries that charge more quickly. CATL plans to go into mass production later this year.’
Moreover, the latest revelation from the local press is that the Government has sought up to $2 billion from ‘Middle East’ sources to pay for more tram lines and some other infrastructure.
Like so many other Canberrans, I am outraged that the tram is so expensive when there’s the certain prospect within reach of batteries producing silent, pollution-free buses with no expensive tracks, and ever cheaper EVs that cruise quietly and safely over well-tended roads.
As mentioned in an earlier column, I am currently engaged in the research and writing of Charles Weston’s biography – a wonderful character and a giant in his field. Much of my work has been in collaboration with the long-time forester and NCDC executive, John Gray whose doctoral thesis on Weston is a brilliant academic achievement. John has long been appalled by the Government’s neglect the of Canberra’s protective ‘green mantle’ throughout the city. With clean battery power there would be more than enough funding to keep the Capital the horticultural showcase created by Weston from 1913-26 and the other great arboreal warrior, Lindsay Pryor from 194558.
In short, Canberra’s premier example of a city’s arboreal character is suffering while the horticultural and tree plantings throughout the city that protect it from the worst effects of climate change are crying out for help.
It is an assault on the capital’s heritage. And as the Chief Minister plans to extend its reach across the Lake to service yet another high-rise apartment cluster, it can only get worse. Who could ever have believed that the bar would be set so low?
robert@robertmacklin.com
The annual Sydney Writer’s Fes val is Australia’s largest forum celebra ng books and ideas. Bringing the world’s finest authors and esteemed thinkers to Eurobodalla audiences in real- me through live streaming.
The events are free, but booking is required. To book, visit eventbrite.com/cc/sydney-writers-fes val-live-stream-2147769
The Sydney Writers’ Fes val is one of Australia’s best-loved forums for literature, ideas and storytelling and Eurobodalla Libraries will livestream featured SWF events from Thursday 25 to Sunday 28 May.
Libraries coordinator Samantha Fenton said the line-up for this year’s livestream promised to be a cracker.
“Whether you want to listen to foodie banter between Stephanie
“The conversa ons, debates and ence par cipa on with live Q&A
“While a endance is free, places
To see the host of events on offer at the libraries, visit the Euro-
“Are we there yet? Are we there yet? This bloody road trip is taking forever, Mick.”
Mick shook his head and turned left ten kilometres from Taralga.
“Careful driving is the secret, Bazza. The police should credit me with penalty driving points.”
Bazza grinned.
“It reminds me of the time I was driving in New Zealand, Mick. There are fewer speed limit signs over there and the last one I remembered seeing was 80kms per hour. Anyhow, a police car was behind me, so to be on the safe side, I slowed to 60kms and hoped he would pass. No such luck…… so I slowed to 40kms and the siren goes off and the lights are flashing in the rear view mirror. The policeman then cautions me….. for driving too slow.”
Mick half laughed but focused on dodging potholes. Bazza was thrown around in the passenger seat like a rag doll.
“Bloody hell, Mick………they pay for these rides at Luna Park.”
Mick braked in time to miss a kangaroo.
“The state of the road is a sore point with my Brother in Law, Bazza. He has an ongoing blue with the local council.”
Mick stopped at a gate and as Bazza alighted, Bon Jovi’s ‘Living on a Prayer’ blasted away the serenity.
“Is this the right address, Mick? It sounds like a rock festival. I’m expecting a bunch of hippies around the next bend.”
Mick ignored the comment and slowed to take in a 100 metre wall of carefully stacked chopped firewood.
Bazza’s eyes widened.
“Enough firewood there Mick, to not only get through winter, but the next Ice Age as well.”
Mick sucked in a deep breath.
“Enough of the smart arse comments, Bazza. You are here to learn a few lessons and the first one is to be prepared. It makes more sense to use the summer months to chop, stack and dry the firewood. You are the sort of bloke that would leave it to the depths of winter and burn damp wood”
Bazza concurred with a rub of his chin and the Aesop Fable ‘The Wild Boar and the Fox’*sprang to mind.
Mick parked the car outside the farmhouse and slipped on overalls, workbooks and a hat.
“Now there is no point knocking on the front door, Bazza. My Brother in Law is always out the back. That’s why I call him Outback Jack or OJ, but it also suits because he likes travelling to places like Bourke and beyond.”
They entered the back shed to a whirr of activity. OJ moved from measuring to cutting corrugated iron and back to measuring. Bazza’s eyes widened as a range of different tools beyond his comprehension were used at lightening pace to perfect the sheets of iron. Each tool was returned to its rightful place, following use, and Bazza made a mental note.
OJ spun around for greetings and shook his head at Bazza’s clothes and sandals.
“It’s nice of you blokes to help out. Bazza you need to slip on these overalls and boots.”
OJ flicked Bazza a battered Akubra hat.
Mick lowered his voice.
“You really should be taking notes, Bazza. Right clothes for the job.”
OJ outlined the job for the afternoon in detail as they hovered over plans.
Bazza licked his lips.
“I reckon we should have a beer and think about it. We can always do it later.”
Mick eyeballed Bazza and shook his head repeatedly.
“Ahh Bazza, that attitude is the core of your problem…… the reason your front gate is jammed open and the front fence about to topple over is you like to ‘think about it’ or ‘do it later’. Your place is full of half completed projects. I’m hoping OJ can set you straight.”
OJ chuckled.
“Let’s go with the rewards system, Bazza. A beer or two at the end of the job will taste much better.”
Bazza nodded.
“A hard earned thirst eh, OJ?”
Spanning a life me of love and loss, crossing borders and oceans, Atlas: The Story of Pa Salt, co-authored by her son Harry Whi aker, draws Lucinda Riley's Seven Sisters series to its stunning, unforge able conclusion.
A boy is found, moments from death, and taken in by a kindly family. Gentle, precocious, talented, he flourishes in his new home, and the family show him a life he hadn't dreamed possible. But he refuses to speak a word about who he really is. As he grows into a young man, falling in love and taking classes at the pres gious Conservatoire de Paris, he can almost forget the terrors of his past, or the promise he has vowed to keep. But across Europe an evil is rising, and no-one's safety is certain. In his heart, he knows the me will come where he must flee once more.
The seven sisters are gathered together for the first me, on board the Titan to say a final goodbye to the enigma c father they loved so dearly.
To the surprise of everyone, it is the missing sister who Pa Salt has chosen to entrust with the clue to their pasts. But for every truth revealed, another ques on emerges. The sisters must confront the idea that their adored father was someone they barely knew. And even more shockingly: that these long-buried secrets may s ll have consequences for them today.
Tilba is becoming famous through the foresight of its farmers. It is being held up as an example of what an up-to-date farm should be like in a me of drought. The dry spell, it is reported, has not affected Tilba to the same extent as further south. Most of the farms are equipped with silos, and the stock fed on ensilage look remarkably well. Moreover, it is stated that there are several farms in the district whose milk supply is quite equal to that of a normal season.
The bones of two celestrials [Chinese emigrants] were exhumed at the local cemetery last week, and shipped to the Flowery Land.
Miss Miller, of Bimbimbie, unfortunately met with an accident through being thrown out of her sulky, the lady receiving a severe shaking and fractured ribs. Dr. Cutler was immediately sent for, and the pa ent is now progressing favourably.
Since Mr. George Brown, of Bodalla, was operated on, the most serious one performed here, was skilfully done on Tuesday by Dr. Cutler on li le Mollie Mylo , only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. P. J. Mylo . The li le girl was suddenly taken ill on Saturday, and the case being diagnosed as appendici s the pa ent was removed to the local hospital where the opera on took place. It transpired that the case was much worse than an cipated, peritoni s having supervened. However, with skilful treatment, and assiduous nursing by Matron Constable, we are pleased to report that there is now a slight improvement, and her recovery is almost assured.
Mr. A. H. Preddy and family have le “Tuffwood” and taken up residence in Mrs. J. Emmo ’s commodious co age “Eversley” in Page Street.
Bateman’s Bay. (From our Correspondent.) Mogo footballers played a return match with the Bateman’s Bay juniors on the la er’s ground. The game was extremely rough and several players were badly knocked about especially young Barling, of the Mogo team. The Bay won by 3 to nil.
The dredge put into this port on Tuesday a ernoon, pending favourable weather to commence opera ons on the Moruya Bar.
Mr. Forbes Mackay, who is always on the lookout for latest modern methods, has had an up-to-date electric light plant installed at “The Bungalow.” We expect others will follow suit shortly.
AUCTION SALE on May 19th at 2.30 p.m. sharp. H. J. Thomson will sell … under instruc ons from Mr. H. E. Simpson; - No 1 Farm, known as “Oaklands,” Mullenderee, containing 87 acres of alluvial flats, divided into seven paddocks, with a five-roomed co age and kitchen, bails, silo and shed, and two acres of lucerne; No 2 Farm, known as Ninderra Estate, containing 433 acres of highly improved hilly land, and having a permanent water supply, with co age, bails, and 100 ton silo built of granite.
Extracted from the Moruya Examiner by the Moruya and District Historical Society Inc.
The importance of shipping to the South Coast un l the early 1950s will be highlighted in an exhibi on by Narooma Historical Society in Narooma Library 12-27 May during library hours.
Society President Laurelle Pacey said in the early days roads were rough tracks or nonexistent so the sea provided a vital transport link.
“It was the means of taking cargoes mainly to Sydney returning with supplies for se lers, miners and businesses, mail and o en also carried passengers,” she said.
“Cargoes could include mber, wa le bark, oysters, oats, cheese, maize, wheat, hides, kegs of bu er, even granite from Moruya River. In the early days of steamers, it was a 13 hour trip from Narooma to Sydney compared with several days by road.”
On Friday 19 May at 10.30am, Ms Pacey will talk about shipping to the south coast, par cularly Narooma. Everyone is welcome.
The exhibi on coincides with the Na onal Trust’s Australian Heritage Fes val and Interna onal Museums Day on 18 May.
She also urges everyone to visit Narooma’s Lighthouse Museum in the Visitors Centre which highlights Narooma’s rich mari me past and its close associa on with Barunguba (Montague Island).
The River of Art Fes val is back from Friday 15 to Sunday 24 September 2023. Now in its 18th year, the 10-day fes val will feature culture, music, visual art, theatre, and crea ve workshops around the fes val theme Celebra ng Place.
The River of Art Fes val is now invi ng proposals from ar sts, the community and business to be a part of this year’s fes val by producing crea ve works or providing a venue or gallery to host events.
The deadline for proposals is Wednesday 12 July.
Seven Eurobodalla ar sts share their experiences of the 2019-20 bushfires through pain ng, printmaking, sculpture and installa on at the Basil Sellers Exhibi on Centre from 6 May – 4 June.
Embers, Epicorm II celebrates the beauty of revival whilst confron ng the reality of personal and environmental vulnerabili es.
The exhibi on opening event was a night to remember for 120 people who celebrated the amazing ar sts and their artwork on Friday 5 May.
Above: Artworks from seven Eurobodalla ar sts has formed a powerful exhibi on at the Bas. Embers, Epicorm II runs from 6 May – 4 June.
Ar st Raewyn Lawrence was impressed by the response a er her artworks completely sold out on the night.
“There was such deligh ul support from the community with all of the sold works staying locally in Moruya,” Ms Lawrence said.
“Everyone locally has experiences of the bushfires. It was humbling to see people respond to my pain ngs as they remembered the colours of the black tree trunks and the intense, luminous green of new growth.”
Curated by Nicole Wallace, the group exhibi on resonates with all who experienced the bushfires and the journey of recovery.
Featuring ar sts include: Cheryl Davison-Overton, Mirabel Fitzgerald, Jennifer Hawkins, Julie Mia Holmes, Raewyn Lawrence, Amy Schleif and Jo Victoria.
From devasta on, ar sts share posi vity a er the bushfires inspired crea vity and expression. They have captured elements of regenera on, hope, resilience, and collabora ve healing.
“It’s very powerful when you walk into the Bas,” Ms Lawrence said.
“The exhibi on has celebrated recovery and brought people together to reflect on how far the community has come.”
Hear directly from the ar sts about their work at the ar st talk on Saturday 13 May, 11am.
Visit the Bas’ website to view ar st profiles or to book in for the ar st talk.
Featuring works by:
Walbunja/Ngarigo
Cheryl Davison-Overton
Mirabel Fitzgerald
Jennifer Hawkins
Julie Mia Holmes
Raewyn Lawrence
Amy Schleif
Jo Victoria
Basil Sellers Exhibi on Centre
Corner Vulcan and Campbell Streets, Moruya
Exhibi on runs from 6th May to 4th June, 2023
Open Daily, 10:00am to 4:00pm
ARTIST TALKS: Saturday 13th May, 11am
.
Six local ar sts who regularly get together and paint. These ar sts are all different in their approach to pain ng, style, technique, subject ma er, medium and colour pale e. The artwork is diverse and ranges from realis c local scenes, impressionis c work, s ll life, abstract expressionism, as well as semi abstract landscapes and seascapes. Various media is used, some of which explores acrylic paint, mixed media, ink, pastel and much more.
The exhibi on is open 7 days per week 8am to 5pm for May.
Recently I’ve been wri ng about the many therapeu c benefits of Moringa oleifera. Over the years I’ve been extremely excited about the research I’ve found on Moringa oleifera and even more excited when customers reported the numerous benefits, they’ve found using Moringa oleifera.
Many customers have found Moringa has been able to lower their blood pressure, to the point they have needed to adjust their medica on. Some have found it has lowered their cholesterol as well as their blood sugar.
As I have wri en previously, Moringa oleifera has been grown for centuries in Northern India and Africa. Ayurvedic medicine, the tradi onal medicine which has been prac ced in India for centuries has been using Moringa oleifera during that me to treat high blood pressure. It’s thought Moringa oleifera lowers high blood pressure by allevia ng vascular dysfunc on and decreasing oxida ve stress. Querce n, which is found in Moringa, contains these an oxidant proper es decreasing the oxida ve stress on the heart, and in turn may assist in stabilising blood pressure. Moringa is high in Potassium which is also helpful in reducing and preven ng high blood pressure (1).
Because Moringa contains chlorogenic acid and isothiocyanates it is also believed to assist in controlling blood sugar. A er a meal, it has been found chlorogenic acid can help to control blood sugar levels by regula ng our cells uptake or release of glucose. It is thought when consuming Moringa there may be posi ve results on fas ng blood sugar levels, insulin levels and overall blood glucose control, assis ng with blood sugar balance (2).
A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2000 (3) found when feeding Moringa oleifera to laboratory rats there was a no ceable lowering in the levels of bad cholesterol. The Moringa was fed to rats on a high fat diet as well as rats on a standard diet with a reduc on in cholesterol overall. Moringa oleifera contains Beta-Sitosterol a nutrient which blocks LDL, the bad cholesterol build-up in your body. It is also an an -inflammatory agent for our body. This Beta-Sitosterol is of similar structure to cholesterol. In fact, it ba les with cholesterol in the intes nes thereby reducing the absorp on of cholesterol, lessening damage to blood vessels and most importantly prevents build-up of plaque in arteries and veins which can be caused by high cholesterol.
This nutrient dense leaf, which is believed by some to be one of the most nutri ous plants on the planet seems to have a never-ending list of health benefits. Because it is high in protein, essen al amino acids, 27 vitamins and 46 an oxidant it is an excellent supplement to take every day whether or not we are suffering from any of the above health issues. A er all, preven on is be er than cure. Plus, as I’ve been wri ng, the general feedback when taking Moringa is that it increases energy and creates a general feeling of wellbeing. I’m sure we would like a li le more energy to get through the day.
For more informa on on Moringa oleifera call to see Bev and the team at Go Vita, Your Health Shop at 5 North St, Batemans Bay or phone on 0244729737. Tune in to Bev every Wednesday at 12.30pm on 2EC.
Chan Sun M, Ruhomally ZB, Boojhawon R, Neergheen-Bhujun VS. Consump on of Moringa oleifera Lam Leaves Lowers Postprandial Blood Pressure. J Am Coll Nutr. 2020 Jan;39(1):54-62. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2019.1608602. Epub 2019 May 7. PMID: 31063434.
Owens FS 3rd, Dada O, Cyrus JW, Adedoyin OO, Adunlin G. The effects of Moringa oleifera on blood glucose levels: A scoping review of the literature. Complement Ther Med. 2020 May;50:102362. doi: 10.1016/ j.c m.2020.102362. Epub 2020 Feb 28. PMID: 32444043
Ghasi S, Nwobodo E, Ofili JO. Hypocholesterolemic effects of crude extract of leaf of Moringa oleifera Lam in high-fat diet fed wistar rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2000 Jan;69(1):21-5. doi: 10.1016/s0378-8741(99)00106-3. PMID: 10661880.
What is Ceremonial Cacao you might ask? Cacao ceremonies are a centuries old ritual. Ceremoni- al cacao is 100% whole cacao bean paste which is unsweetened and solidified with all the healthy fats, high an oxidants and nutri onal and mood enhancing benefits. It increases blood flow to the brain, helping to strengthen our awareness and focus. When preparing your ceremonial cacao drink, you are encouraged to be mindful and enjoy the experience. Experiment with different spices and milks, to create your own unique drink for a transcendent morning or a ernoon ritual.
Direc ons:
Heat water or milk of choice (dairy, almond, coconut, oat or soy milk) - do not boil. Drop 4-6 Power Superfoods Cacao Paste Bu ons into your mug or glass jug. Pour heated liquid onto cacao bu ons and emulsify using a hand frother, blender or steam wand un l it’s melted, frothy and well mixed.
Great conditions for running attracted 52 starters this evening and there were 10 personal best times. In the 2 kilometres Aengus Delaney, Violet Turner, Ashlee Beby, JP Tangney, Orla Tangney, Asha Tangney, Remy Shannon, and Anna Marley all recorded PBs. In the 3 kilometres Emma Dawson and Meg Edenborough improved on their previous best time.
We celebrated Paige Connaughton’s 400th run this evening. Paige first run was on 27th February 2008. She was encouraged by Liza Martini to come along. This was a very significant date for the success of the Broulee Runners as it is today, as she brought along her mother and father Deb and Dave. It is history now because Deb has been very instrumental with the growth of the event with her marketing on Facebook and of course her work as the starter and photographer for many years. Dave is the action man having made 640 appearances since 2008. Paige believes in quality over quantity having successfully cleaned up her father over all distances.
Wednesday 10th May was the final round of our Club Championships. Total entrants: 31 with two divisions.
Div 1; 0-25: Div 2; 26-45
Congratula ons to our club champion, Sylvia Donohoe who posted a score of 315 off her handicap of 2
The gross runner-up is Jayne Hothkis who posted a score of 340 off her handicap of 8
The ne winner is Lisa Beveridge who posted a score of 299 off her handicap of 25
Dorelle Monteith is the Silver Salver winner with a score of 377 off her handicap of 15
Grade B gross winner is Marion Brooks who posted a score of 413 off her handicap of 26
Gross runner up is Maddie Robinson who posted a score of 425 off her handicap of 29
Ne winner was Lynne McDonald with a score of 307 off handicap of 34. Tina Wilson won the Professionals Trophy with 153 off her handicap of 21.
On Wednesday 17th May Narooma Women are hos ng a charity day in support of The Family Place. Shotgun start 0830-0900. Golfers and non-golfers are welcome. Bookings at Narooma Pro Shop 4476 0507
beagle abode: the leading online weekly Eurobodalla real estate guide, showcasing the current Eurobodalla, and wider South Coast property market
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.
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 #1146:
Tuesday’s Federal Budget was the first full budget by a Labor government in more than a decade. Interestingly there wasn’t a massive number of new announcements regarding the property market as the “big ticket items” had already been announced in the mini budget in October. The headline act is the proposed $10bn Housing Australia Future Fund which guarantees a minimum of 1,200 social and affordable houses in each state and territory over the next five years. This fund needs to be approved by the House of Representatives and the Senate however the Coalition are not supporting the proposal saying it will add to inflation and the Greens believe it doesn’t go far enough and want $5bn directly spent on housing and also a national rent freeze (which we think is probably a good topic for another Franzen Tips). As this article “goes to press”, it appears Labor have not succeeded in getting the proposal through the Senate so further negotiations will need to take place for the next parliamentary sitting which will be in June. With housing being one of the biggest issues in Australia today, one would think all sides of government would be expediting a solution but alas it appears not.
The budget however still contained several announcements regarding the housing market. The industry is highly supportive to lift the rate of the Commonwealth Rent Assistance by 15% (approximately $31 a fortnight) which will assist many in the cost-ofliving crisis. However once again some believe that it is no way near enough given the huge increase that has occurred in the rental market in recent months. Most experts believe that the only initiative that will bring down rental prices is by increasing rental supply, but as noted above the various parties cannot agree on how to do that.
Also announced were several schemes targeted at boosting the nation’s build-to-rent (BTR) sector, most notably halving the managed trust withholding tax from 30% to 15%. This aims to build on the mini budget’s National Housing Accord which promised 1m new homes between 2024 and 2029. Mr Zorbas from the Property Council of Australia says BTR projects “provide tenants with long-term security of tenure, superior amenities, and professionally managed properties,”
Another notable item was an additional $67.5 million in funding through the 2023–2024 financial year for the National Housing and Homelessness Agreement Transitional Funding. This will boost homeless funding to the states and territories.
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
presidentTHMS@gmail.com
secretaryTHMS@gmail.com
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