The Northern Rivers Newspaper Edition 208

REGIONAL CRIME ISSUE ON THE TABLE

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley Council has found itself offering conficting information to a State Government planning body meeting this week to deal with a 284-dwelling development in West Yamba.

CRIME ON THE RISE

By Samantha Elley

A combination of red tape and delays in providing information to the Northern Region Planning Panel has meant council staff have provided a recommendation to the panel to approve the development.

decrease.

It is no secret that crime in the Richmond-Tweed is on the rise.

But at the May 28 ordinary council meeting councillors voted 5-2 to not approve the development because of serious non-compliance issues detailed in an attachment to the report in the council business paper.

The latest crime figures from the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) show a rise in areas such as domestic and non-domestic violence assault, break and enter and car theft.

At the council meeting council’s director environment and planning Adam Cameron revealed council staff were required to submit the staff recommendation to the planning panel before councillors could see it.

Local towns, such as Coraki and Goonellabah, have had resident meetings to work out how to stem the tide of criminal activity.

This had led to the councillors seeing a staff assessment made 18 months ago, which included a long list of non-compliances.

Those areas that haven’t increased, have remained stable but there has been no

Local politicians and law enforcement gathered with residents and community leaders in Casino last week to discuss the issue.

Full story page 2

Shadow Minister for Police, Paul Toole, NSW Nationals

Leader, Dugald Saunders and Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson were on hand to hear what the locals had to say at the Richmond Valley Council chambers.

“We’ve held a roundtable to look at and hear from people involved in the youth crime space, the domestic violence space and more broadly crime in general across the mid North Coast and the Northern Rivers,” said Mr

Williamson.

“We’ve heard some incredible stories from people doing incredible things in our community to tackle youth crime.

“We’ve heard some stories with regards to why people are committing crime, particularly here in Casino. I think it’s fair to say we have more work to do.” Full story page 2

Regional crime issue on the table

By Samantha Elley

It is no secret that crime in the Richmond-Tweed is on the rise.

The latest crime fgures from the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) show a rise in areas such as domestic and non-domestic violence assault, break and enter and car theft.

Those areas that haven’t increased, have remained stable but there has been no decrease.

Local towns, such as Coraki and Goonellabah, have had resident meetings to work out how to stem the tide of criminal activity.

Local politicians and law enforcement gathered with residents and community leaders in Casino last week to discuss the issue.

Shadow Minister for Police, Paul Toole, NSW Nationals Leader, Dugald Saunders and Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson were on hand to hear what the locals had to say at the Richmond Valley Council chambers.

“We’ve held a roundtable to look at

and hear from people involved in the youth crime space, the domestic violence space and more broadly crime in general across the mid North Coast and the Northern Rivers,” said Mr Williamson.

“We’ve heard some incredible stories from people doing incredible things in our community to tackle youth crime.

“We’ve heard some stories with regards to why people are committing crime, particularly here in

that concerns me,” said Mr Williamson.

“And that’s certainly been brought to our attention today.”

The roundtable highlighted that the primary offenders are mainly younger people at night and Mr Williamson said there was a large increase in motor vehicle theft and break and enters.

“Make sure you lock up at night,” he said.

“Make sure you report crime, because police need an accurate picture

electorate,” he said.

“I am hopeful that might happen in the future.”

Topics covered in the roundtable also included the issues around bail and programs that are currently working to reduce crime.

“Prevention is much better than cure,” Mr Williamson said.

“What preventative measures can be done to ensure that the people aren’t before a magistrate or aren’t going to jail or Acmena (Youth Justice

wave of regional crime.

“There are a lot of good people and good organisations willing to get “Skin in the game” and we’ve got to back it,” he said.

“I’ll take that fght to Macquarie Street every single day of the week, because that’s what we need, for our people to be safe and feel safe.”

Mr Saunders said while looking for solutions, it has to be a regional or even a town-based solution.

Casino. I think it’s fair to say we have more work to do.”

Mr Williamson said, during Covid there was a dip in crime but since then, there has been an increase, not only in the number, but the severity.

“This isn’t just a Casino issue, this is a wider community issue, but the severity is something

of where and when crime is happening.

“Make sure your car is locked.”

Mr Williamson said the government is supporting the cause for a rural crime inquiry.

“I’ve written to the chair of that committee and I’ve impressed to him, I’d like to see an inquiry held here in my

Centre).

“I’m willing to work with my colleagues and the government to fnd programs that prevent crime, particularly here in the Northern Rivers.”

Mr Williamson said some of the attendees at the roundtable included community leaders who were willing to get involved to help stop the

“It isn’t a once sized fts all solution,” he said.

“That’s why today getting some of the providers already in that space to actually talk about what they do and what their feeling is, maybe restricting the opportunities they have and how we can look to help them in the future.”

Internal police reviews continue to leave women to die

The death of another woman, Sarah Miles, at the hands of a domestic partner in Casino, and why it took police more than an hour to respond to a call, has prompted calls for an end to internal reviews by the NSW Police. The Minister for Police has announced there will be a Critical Incident Investigation into the death, leaving questions about the effectiveness of police investigating police and the role of the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) having limited oversight powers to address the root causes, rather than shifting blame and refusing responsibility.

Greens MP and spokesperson for Justice Sue Higginson said “This is another tragedy that should have been avoided. Another woman’s death, in my home region and another domestic and family violence fatality where

police took too long to respond. Once again the NSW Government is allowing police to investigate where the police failed, Surely enough is enough,”

“It seems that the Minister would like to pin the blame for this tragic death on triple-zero. She has called for an independent investigation, but in the same breath accepted that once again it will be the police who investigate the police. We know how this goes, we’ve relied upon this system for years and it is not changing anything. It’s not protecting people, helping police or keeping communities safe,”

“To get to the bottom of how this tragic death happened, the circumstances that led to it and why police responded too late, this investigation must at least be fully directed by the LECC independent oversight body and the police

must fully cooperate. In reality the LECC does exceptional work but it has very limited powers. It has been shocking to watch as the Police routinely frustrates even basic LECC oversight measures, consistently refusing to cooperate in interviews and then astoundingly dragging the LECC through the courts to hide key evidence in Critical Incident Investigations. We shouldn’t have to stand for this from the police leadership team. They are letting down victims, their loved ones, police offcers and the community as a whole.”

“Unfortunately, the NSW Police Force has proven incapable of investigating their own, especially in matters of domestic and family violence. In two-thirds of domestic violence investigations, offcers do not comply with their own operating procedures and three-quarters of investigations into violent

incidents are inadequate.

This is not information that the police volunteer. We only understand the full extent of this problem because of LECC investigation,”

“Despite the recent moral panic over police resources in regional areas, the truth is that Casino, and other country towns have ample police resources. The problem is how those resources are being used, and in this case of wrongful death, how they aren’t being used.”

“Richmond Police District investigated just 19 of 67 misconduct complaints made by members of the public last year. There are legitimate and longstanding community concerns about the priorities of Richmond Police District. We have seen a rash of serious domestic violence offences, too often lethal and the deployment of police offcers against non-urgent issues and

non-dangerous people in the community. NSW needs a serious rethink of how and when the police are being used, the causes of crime and the culture of policing but Premier Minns has blocked efforts to have that conversation,”

“Police investigating police in NSW has roundly failed to improve policing and keep communities safer in this State. The police force is an enormous state institution based on hierarchy, power, lethal weapons and responsibility. If we want to see changes and improvements in policing, for police and the community, we need a system built on transparency and accountability and public trust, that will only come through an independent integrity and accountability body with teeth and muscle,” said Ms Higginson.

By Tim Howard

The traditions that have made the Grafton July Racing Carnival one of Australia’s pre-eminent country race carnivals have reasserted themselves after the Covid-19 period says carnival organiser Michael Beattie.

Beattie, the executive offcer of the Clarence River Jockey Club, said the 2024 carnival, which jumps out of the barrier on Sunday with Kensei Club Community Race Day was getting better each year.

He said Covid had a big impact on the carnival, although he praised the public for continuing to support it through those diffcult days.

“Looking at the fgures that we’ve got, we’ve certainly got a greater interest in membership, after the hangover from Covid and that’s a really good sign,” he said.

“Another positive is that entries close today for the Caloundra Cup,

July Carnival getting back to its best

which is the last of the lead up races for the Grafton Cup and there’s 21 entries for the Caloundra Cup.

“This is really good for us, because it shows there is some depth in the quality of the horses around at this stage.”

Beattie said the CRJC was determined to stick with its traditions because it’s what the patrons enjoy.

“That tradition racegoer still looks forward to Grafton,” he said. “There’s not many place that replicate what we do and think that gives us our point of difference.

“That’s why we keep getting people coming back year after year.”

Beattie acknowledged this year’s carnival might not have some of the big moments, such as former jockey Leah Kilner’s emotional return to the track where she was almost killed in a horrendous fall the year before.

“Leah’s moved away from racing now, I

believe,” Beattie said. “We don’t have anything planned like that this year, but it was certainly a wonderful moment last year that anyone who was there would remember for the rest of their lives.”

But he said the quality of the horses coming should guarantee a good

fortnight of racing.

“One of the horse I would like to see come is Adam Campton’s Deepour,” he said.

“He was in the Ramornie last year, but didn’t have a lot of luck in running.

“He’s a horse I think ideally suited to the Ramornie and he’s had

Warehouse

two quite good lead up races in Brisbane, running seventh in the Lightning and then seventh in the Healey.

“Both of those are traditionally very strong lead-up races to the Ramornie.”

Beattie is also hopeful Murwillumbah trainer Matthew Dunne will send his talented galloper Cepheus to Grafton to defend his South Grafton Cup title and have another crack at the Big Dance, where he fnished second.

“I would hope Matty has plans to get him ready for the Big Dance and have another go at that,” he said.

One story Beattie would like to see continue was to see champion jockey Rachel King return to Grafton to attempt a hat trick of wins in the Grafton Cup.

“Rachel is on a hat trick for sure,” he said. “But she’s got married and been racing overseas in England.

“I believe she only

Community Event

started racing again in Australia this week.”

But he said if last year’s Cup winner Zoumas, who was in the weights for the Caloundra Cup.

“He’s only had a couple of runs back from a spell and Caloundra would be his third run back.

“I would be very hopeful he makes the trip to Grafton and if that’s the case it may tempt Rachel to make the trip too.”

The race dates to enter into your calendar this July:

Sunday July 7: Kensei Club Community Race Day

Sunday July 14: Grafton Toyota Sth Grafton Cup Day

Wednesday July 17 : Grafton District Services Club Ramornie Hcp Day

Thursday July 18: Westlawn Finance

Grafton Cup Day

Sunday July21: Maclean Bowling Club Maclean Cup Day

Two-time Grafton Cup winning jockey Rachel King would be on a hat trick if she returns to Grafton this year. Unfortunately the chance are slim, as she has just returned from racing overseas, but it hasn’t been ruled out.

Council after $8.9 mil in ferry compensation

By Tim Howard

The NSW Government should pump the estimated $8 million it will save with last month’s closure of the Ulmarra Ferry service back into local Infrastructure says Clarence Valley council general manager Laura Black.

At the June council meeting Ms Black presented a report “advocating that funds proportional to the loss of the ferry service be spent in community.”

Cr Steve Pickering, who was a strong voice in the fght to keep the ferry service, moved that council accept the report which recommended that council:

writes to local State Member Richie Williamson seeking his support in advocating for an allocation of funds to the Clarence Valley in lieu of continuation of the Ulmarra to Southgate Ferry service by Transport NSW.

2. writes to the Minister for Regional Transport, the Hon. Jenny Aitchison requesting:

a. funding totalling $8,883,950 to enable the upgrade of 5km of Lawrence Road from Great Marlow to Grafton and, completion of the Ulmarra Riverside Precinct Bailey Park connectivity and Small Park upgrade and, completion of the Grafton Waterfront

Precinct from Villers to the Grafton Bridge.

b. Transport NSW prioritises its commitment to design and deliver pedestrian access across Big River Way in the town of Ulmarra to facilitate connectivity in the town.

c. Funds be made available to Transport NSW to prioritise the upgrade of the Pound and Villers

Street intersection to a signalised intersection as this is both a residual matter relating to the Grafton Bridge duplication and an intersection that will experience increased vehicular movements as a result of cessation of the Ulmarra to Southgate Ferry.

Cr Pickering said the funds would help compensate the region for the loss of a valuable piece of infrastructure.

“It’s very unfortunate that we were actually looking at requesting funding to be reallocated within the Clarence Valley,” he said.

“The only reason this motion was put forward is because the Transport for New South Wales decided to cancel the Ulmarra to Southgate ferry service, giving the community only four weeks notice of this intention.

“And then to strip all of the assets away within two days, it’s very unfortunate, but there is obviously going to be

a huge cost saving to Transport for New South Wales and the State Government.

“It would be really nice if some of that money could be reinvested back into our valley, on roads and infrastructure, which is more heavily used than the Ulmarra Ferry may have been.”

Ms Black outlined where the funding was needed and could be spent.

“The funding we are seeking will go towards the upgrade of 5kms of Lawrence Road from Great Marlow to Grafton, the completion of the Ulmarra Riverside Precinct Bailey Park connectivity and Small Park Upgrade, as well as the completion of the Grafton Waterfront Precinct from Clarence Street to the Grafton Bridge.” Ms Black said.

Council has received more than $2 million under the Disaster Recovery Fund Agreement to address critically damaged pavement areas on Lawrence Road at Alumy Creek. During the design, it was identifed that approximately 4.8km of Lawrence Road from the intersection of Great Marlow Road to Grafton requires road widening along with pavement upgrades to address several road safety concerns.

“Council staff have progressed with a design of this section of road

which will address these issues and provide a signifcantly safer route of travel,” Ms Black said.

“A construction estimate of $7,341,307 has been provided for this project which leaves a funding shortfall of $5,128,948, and without funding this project will be delivered in stages once funding becomes available.”

In parallel with the Lawrence Road upgrades, the requested

funding will also go towards the completion of the upgrade of the northern end of parkland at Bailey Park Ulmarra, the upgrade of the RV campground at Small Park Ulmarra, and the completion of the Clarence Street to the Grafton Bridge section of the Grafton Waterfront Precinct.

The general manager’s report also requested that Transport

NSW prioritises its commitment to design

and deliver pedestrian access across Big River Way in Ulmarra and for funds to be available for the upgrade of the Pound and Villiers Street intersection to a signalised intersection to cope with the increased vehicular movements as a result of the cessation of the Ulmarra to Southgate Ferry.

Council voted unanimously to support the motion.

Ulmarra residents decorated the ferry with ribbons and streamers on its last day of service on June 10. The vessel has been towed to Harwood Marine for decommissioning.

By Samantha Elley

When Lara Kennedy was asked to teach acro dance classes, she jumped at the chance. The Kyogle resident has been dancing since she was four years old and taken on all forms including jazz, contemporary and acro.

For those who don’t know what acro is, it is a form of acrobatic gymnastics or acrobatic dance.

“The dance school in town was looking for someone to do acro dance,” she said.

“I put my hand up as I’ve done gymnastics and dance.

“I was doing that from 2020 until August 2023.”

From there, Lara decided to take the exciting step of opening up her own school, but this time concentrating solely on acrobatics.

And so LAcro was born.

“I am trained and affliated with Acrobatic

Going agro for ACro

Arts, which is an organisational body who provide training for acrobatic teachers,” she said.

“The kids call me LA, and they came up with the name of the school.”

The school is currently being held at the Uniting Hall in Kyogle, which unfortunately has its setbacks.

“My goal is to fnd my own space,” said Lara.

“Set up and packing time is around 30-45 minutes and the equipment is heavy and I have to pay for the whole time I am there.

“I would love an industrial style shed with concrete foors and strong metal supports on the roof where we could do our aerial skills from.”

A typical acro lesson, according to Lara, has a cardio component, then stretching and the syllabus based on each class.

“Each student has a folder with an Acrobatic Arts level they are sitting at,” Lara explained.

“As they achieve a skill, they get to tick it off.”

The syllabus can

involve all manner of acrobatics from cartwheels, to handstands, up to back hand springs and back tucks.

“We have just started Lyra, which is aerial (performances) in the sky and silks,” said Lara.

At LAcro students range from two years old up to a women’s class where the average age is in their forties.

“The women’s class is very gentle stretching, conditioning and cardio,” said Lara.

“They have done some amazing partnering and

a lot have said its helped with post childbirth and muscle separation and pelvic foor.”

Acro has become more and more popular with Lara now taking on up to 75 students.

“This year we’ve got our end of year concert which is something I’d love to have the community sponsor,” said Lara.

“It can be expensive with music and video costs.

“I am also trying to organise some community

performances, as the students have built up some amazing skills.”

Cost for the classes is $15 per student, or if paying a term at a time, you pay for nine lessons with the 10th free.

“We also have family discounts, making it cheaper for each sibling,” said Lara.

“My main goal I to make it as family friendly and affordable as I can.

“I am aware dance is an expensive niche sport especially when siblings want to do it.”

To learn more about LAcro visit the Facebook page at www.facebook. com/LAcro Acrobatics or scan the QR below.

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By Tim Howard

Council food plan rules out lower foor heights

Clarence Valley Council has ruled out lowering minimum foor heights for new developments in an interim food planning document approved at the recent council meeting.

The report, the Lower Clarence Flood Model Update 2022 went to council’s June 25 meeting and provoked intense debate as councillors sought to balance the need to protect people from the danger of developing on food plains while allowing not allowing development costs to escalate.

These fears were refected in many of the 24 public submissions the report attracted.

When analysing the submissions council staff noted they range from questioning the accuracy and conclusions of the 2022 Flood Model, that the interim food plain levels are too high and will impact on property values and building costs, to those that suggest current residential zoned land that is food prone should not be permitted to increase fll.

The councillors

refected these concerns during questions and debate.

Cr Ian Tiley cut to the chase during question time.

“Is council looking to decrease the habitable foor levels through this motion?” he asked of general manager Laura Black.

“No, the inclusion of the new point three confrms that the food planning levels for the purpose of development will not be reduced through this proposal,” Ms Black said.

There were also concerns about the mention of North Grafton in a report on Lower Clarence food modelling, allowing an alternative food modelling approach for the region.

The report sought to establish a “case by case” approach for development in North Grafton in consideration of the existing issues with habitable foor levels.

It proposed new development be permitted to a level of 6.4 metres under the current Development Control Plans (DCPs).

Staff said a measured approach

was recommended to ensure unforeseen socio-economic impacts are minimised regarding access to new housing and the local economy.

While some councillors had concerns changes in regulation could raise

report were confusing and eventually withdrew the motion.

Cr Karen Toms said she found the stories from residents in their submission to be concerning.

“This is a really big change,” she said. “It’s going to change the face of our communities, and it’s going to impact on a lot of people and I don’t really know how we can avoid that.

“I’m not that clever. I’m not one of these scientists who come up with these decisions.”

Cr Toms said what annoyed her was the way government implemented these big changes.

prices to prohibitive levels, others suggested council seek a ban on any development on the food plain.

Cr Greg Clancy sought to introduce a foreshadowed motion that “the council not approve any more developments below the 1% AEP, including climate change.”

Cr Clancy said the options presented in the

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public safety.

“We have a duty of care to protect as many people as we can,” she said.

“And if we can protect people by employing some interim food planning levels for two years, until the foodplain risk management plan and study is completed, this is what we’ve got to do to protect people’s lives.

Cr Novak said most of the feedback she had from residents was from people concerned that it would allow development lower than today’s development.

“They put planning proposals forward for our LEPs, but it’s something that councillors have to make that decision with,” she said.

“So I do believe there are unintended or maybe not unintended consequences, maybe there may be they’re consequences we just don’t realise yet. I don’t know. But I’m concerned.”

Cr Debrah Novak supported the proposal because it improved

“Point three confrms that the food planning levels if introduced today, shall not be lower than they are today,” she said.

Mayor Peter Johnstone made a rare contribution to the debate, praising the report for the amount of public consultation it revealed.

“You can see in the way that it’s been written, it has been listening to what people have been saying and adjusting things,” he said.

“In particular, I’d like to commend item three on that.

“We’ve had submissions

from people in the public and concerns expressed that as a result of the motion today that actually people are they’re allowed to build lower on the foodplain.

“But that’s made absolutely clear crystal clear that that’s not going to be happening. So we can assure quite a few in the community about that.”

The mayor also said approving the motion had improved matters for the public.

“The danger if we do not adopt this today is, as other councillors have said, which is kicking the can down the road,” he said.

“By voting for this motion, we’ve improved things. It doesn’t mean we couldn’t change things again in the future and tighten things up again in the future.

“We have the opportunity today to make an improvement. And even a small improvement is an improvement.”

Council voted 8-1 for the motion, with Cr Clancy the only objector.

Mayor Peter Johnstone made a rare foray into debate in support of the interim food levels proposed, saying they’re an improvement, even if only a small one.

By Samantha Elley

The magpie is well known for two characteristics.

First, they are a beautiful blend of black and white and second, they are ferce protectors of their young.

For this reason, Bradley Walker, local community advocate, has established the CDAT (Community Drug Action Teams) Magpie Centre Indigenous Corporation which works to bring reconciliation between black and white.

“I am trying to be a role model for the community with everything that’s happening around drugs and alcohol and the youths doing all the breaking and enters,” he said.

“I decided to do a yarning circle for men only, so we can talk about men’s business.

“It’s called the CDAT Magpie Men’s Yarning Circle.

“Like a magpie, black

Stormwater Infrastructure Upgrade at Byron Resource Recovery Centre to Begin Shortly The Byron Shire Council will soon commence an upgrade to the stormwater infrastructure at the Byron Resource Recovery Centre (BRRC). This project aims to prepare the facility for future weather events and further future-proof it.

Danielle Hanigan, Manager of Resource Recovery at Byron Shire Council, stated that the initial phase will focus on upgrading the drains and swales on the northern and western sections of the site.

“Visitors to the Byron Resource Recovery Centre

Time for a yarn that will lead to action

and white, it doesn’t matter what your colour is.

“That’s what my corporations stands for - reconciliation and closing the gap. I won’t exclude anyone. You are all welcome to come around and sit. Regardless of your colour you are family.”

Bradley wasn’t always the community advocate he is today.

Eight years ago, he was using drugs and abusing alcohol.

“I used to do needles, ice,” he said.

“I used to deal in a lot of these houses, drink in them, domestic violence, steal cars, break into houses and break into shops.”

He puts his change of life down to the Christian faith of his grandmother and auntie.

“It’s a seed (my grandmother) planted when I was a young kid and my auntie kept watering it every day,” said Bradley.

should expect some minor delays over the next few months while we complete the upgrade works. The facility will remain open, and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause,” she said. “This stormwater upgrade is part of a larger multi-year upgrade program and is benefcial for both the site and the environment by minimizing stormwater runoff.” Works Program – How Will It Affect You?

• Start Date: Early July

• Duration: Approximately 10 weeks (weather permitting)

• Work Hours: 8 am to 4 pm on weekdays, and 8:30 am to 11:30 am on Saturdays

“When you water a seed, it blooms to be lovely and beautiful and that’s me now, advocating for the kingdom of God frst and foremost.”

Bradley’s aim is for leaders and mentors in the community to come together through the yarning circle to help the youth and men that need

Impact on Visitors:

• Additional construction crews and machinery will be on-site during the upgrade.

• Normal traffc fow and site road conditions may change.

• There may be some short-term impacts to site access and minor delays, but efforts will be made to minimize disruptions to normal operations and site access.

• Visitors are requested to follow on-site information, including construction area signage, traffc management, and instructions from staff.

support the most.

“It’s community led,” he said.

“When we get community up here, we can ask them what they want and then we follow up.

“If someone comes in and says they are homeless we can ask housing to come and be a part of the yarning circle.

Shout Out to Council’s Awesome Bush Regeneration Team

Byron Shire Council’s small but mighty bush regeneration team is making a signifcant impact on the natural environment. Currently, the team is working on 432 hectares of bushland reserves across 90 sites, including 15 kilometres along the Brunswick River and its tributaries, and more than nine kilometres of coastal vegetation.

“If they have troubles with the justice system, we can have probationery and parole (offcers) up here to work with the community.

“I like to yarn, but I like the action.”

Bradley is not alone in his efforts as one of the directors of the corporation, also Bradley, last name Alfred, is a great believer in helping people talk through intergenerational trauma.

“I’ve always been involved in my church since I was 12 in some sort of role of helping people,” he said.

“But since coming to Lismore and associating with Brad, I’ve been made aware of a far greater need.

“The amount of government services there are is good, but we still need to get it together.

“This little yarning circle can really help people by talking and sharing experiences

the team’s dedication, with more than 9,000 hours of bush regeneration work completed in the last fnancial year. “The team removes weeds from Council-managed sites, allowing natural regeneration to occur,” Filipczyk said. “It’s hard work, especially in summer, but seeing the positive changes in the natural landscape is incredibly rewarding.”

For more information about the project, please visit the Council’s website.

I was happy to drop in to Bentley Community Preschool to deliver the good news that I helped them secure a $24,786 grant to replace the preschool and hall fence.

It was wonder ful to join the kids for stor y time with their teachers and educators, who do an amazing job for our children’s future.

I am always keen to help local groups secure grants to help them do even better for our communities. Please do get in touch.

Dave Filipczyk, Team Leader of Bush Regeneration, highlighted

Notably, 50 of the sites, covering approximately 47 hectares, are now at maintenance level. This means they contain

and hopefully fnding positive direction.

“This little group is just a catalyst to get all those resources working for them.”

If you feel a yarning circle is something that can help you in your stage of life, the two Bradleys would warmly welcome you to meet with them, to possibly help you connect with whatever resources are out there for your need. They are also just keen to have you share your story and become part of the yarning circle family. They meet every Thursday at 3.30pm at the Church of Christ, 39-41 Rous Road, Goonellabah.

The Magpie Corporation also holds a community barbeque every third Friday of the month at 3.30pm at the park in McDermott Avenue, Goonellabah.

You can contact Brad Walker on 0477 831 694 for further details.

less than one percent of introduced species, requiring only minor work several times a year.

Byron Shire residents can support the bush regeneration team by refraining from throwing lawn clippings and garden waste into the bush or over their fences, as these plants can easily seed and spread, harming the natural environment.

Thank you to the bush regeneration team for their dedication and hard work in preserving the natural beauty of the Byron Shire!

By Tim Howard

A Clarence Valley developer asking to increase the height Yamba Rd development has been likened to a child seeking a third helping of ice cream.

Deputy mayor Jeff Smith made the allusion at the council’s latest meeting when the developers of a multidwelling development at 6 Yamba Rd, applied for approval to modify the building in a way that would have increased the building height, which already exceeded the maximum height in the LEP, by 25%.

Early last year the same developer was granted approval to modify the development and its return last week was too much for Cr Smith.

“Back on March 29, 2023. I spoke about a guy a kid with a scoop of ice cream and he came back for a second scoop,” he said.

“Well we’ve got a kid that’s come back for a

Third ice cream scoop one too many

third scoop right here, but I’m not gonna dwell on those sort of images anymore.”

Cr Smith said he’d read one of the fve submission on the matter that said the development was presenting an unreasonable bulk and scale to the Yamba streetscape.

“This is a three story set of units which now wants to raise up to 11.25m,” he said.

“How much is enough? You know, just we’ve approved it for 9.88m and I’ll be voting against this and for the foreshadowed motion for that reason.”

Cr Karen Toms was the lone voice supporting the modifcation which sought to increase the height of Building 1 with a redesign of the roof from a fat roof to a skillion roof and an increase in internal ceiling heights, change visitor parking from parallel park to a ‘nose in’ arrangement and make minor

modifcations to some internal layouts of the dwellings.

But when Cr Ian Tiley moved a foreshadowed motion to refuse the modifcation because it did not conform to the Clarence Valley LEP, it quickly became evident where most councillors sympathies lay.

Cr Steve Pickering said the numbers involved in the modifcation were too much.

“We’ve got a nine meter height limit in our LEP for a reason,” he said.

“For a developer to come along and think

that they can increase that by 25%. It’s just it’s too much.

“We initially approved an increase in the in the height limit to 9.88 metres, which was already outside the requirements or the standards for the LEP.

“So to go to over 11 metres over two metres difference 2.25 metres higher than the maximum permissible height and Yamba it’s just it’s too much.”

Cr Bill Day said it was time to take a stand against developers trying to slip past regulations.

“This, I believe, is like

death by 1000 cuts,” he said.

“Developers continue to put in development applications to increase by small amounts until you get to something that’s substantially above what’s allowed in Yamba.

“There’s an alternative the applicant can reduce this section of the building by one storey to fully comply with the LEP.

“If the new height that’s applied for now had been originally proposed in the previous DA, that DA may not have been approved,

and I think our early approval is being misused.”

In her right of reply Cr Toms warned council might fnd itself in the Land and Environment Court, costing ratepayers up to $40,000.

But councillors showed little concern and voted down the motion to approve.

In debate on his foreshadowed motion, Cr Tiley said the proposal was unfair to nearby residents cutting out breezeways and blocking views. He said it was also important to send a message to developers that the council would take a dim view of developments that exceeded its legislative requirements.

Cr Greg Clancy said it was legitimate to make small allowances, but the council needed to set a precedent for such large height exceedance. Councillors voted 8-1 in favour of refusing the modifcations.

Lismore City Council Launches Historic Road Restoration Effort

By Robert Heyward

Lismore City Council has embarked on an unprecedented mission to restore over 120km of unsealed gravel roads damaged by recent natural disasters. Over the next three months, six dedicated local crews will work tirelessly to grade and repair the most severely affected areas.

This extensive project, one of the largest of its kind in Lismore’s

rural history, represents a multi-million-dollar investment aimed at improving key transport corridors, ensuring safer and faster commutes for residents.

Brendan Logan, Lismore City Council’s Chief Operating Offcer, emphasized the importance of rural roads to the community.

“Rural roads are lifelines for many, providing essential access for locals, visitors, emergency services, and

local businesses. This record-setting grading project demonstrates our commitment to restoring these vital routes to their optimal condition as quickly as possible,” he said.

“This blitz on over 120km of unsealed roads is a signifcant investment for our teams, who are responsible for maintaining 1,215km of sealed and unsealed roads annually across the local government area.”

The initiative not only addresses the urgent need for road restoration post-food but also injects substantial fnancial benefts into Lismore’s local economy by engaging local contractors for the work.

“This project is more than just road repairs; it’s an incredible ‘shop local’ initiative. By hiring local contractors, we’re ensuring that the investment benefts our community directly, creating jobs and

keeping money within the community,” Logan added.

The project is scheduled to take approximately three months to complete, weather permitting, with priority given to the most severely damaged roads. The assessment process is ongoing, and additional roads may be included in the recovery efforts as needed.

For a complete list of roads undergoing restoration and to stay

updated on the progress of recovery efforts for roads and bridges, visit the Council’s dedicated Flood Recovery – Roads and Bridges Your Say page at yoursay.lismore. nsw.gov.au. Funding for this project has been granted by Transport for NSW (TfNSW) under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) guidelines to reconstruct eligible assets to their predisaster function.

An artists drawing of the building proposed for 6 Yamba Rd which would have created a building more than 11m

Tweed Shire Council Seeks Community Input on Affordable Housing Plan

The Tweed Shire Council is inviting community feedback on a draft plan aimed at addressing the signifcant shortage of social and affordable housing in the region.

The draft Tweed Affordable Housing Strategy has been developed in response to unprecedented pressures on housing affordability and accessibility to affordable rental housing.

Currently, there is a shortfall of 1,118 social housing dwellings and 2,665 affordable housing dwellings in the region. Without intervention, it is estimated that up to 4,885 dwellings will be needed by 2041.

The draft Tweed Affordable Housing Strategy is being developed alongside the Tweed Growth Management and Housing Strategy, which focuses on accommodating population growth

and employment opportunities in the region through to 2041. Once completed, the strategy will provide clear guidance to developers and community housing providers on how to create new affordable housing opportunities.

Key components of the strategy include:

• Implementing measures to increase affordable housing units, including a mandated target of 10% social and affordable housing for new developments in certain areas.

• Forming partnerships with non-proft organizations and developers to improve housing availability and accessibility.

• Exploring innovative approaches to address housing shortages.

• Monitoring and reporting on the progress of social and affordable housing projects, including the number of units built, project timelines, and community impact.

• Advocating for supportive policies at all government levels and engaging in outreach and

education efforts.

Mayor of Tweed Shire, Chris Cherry, emphasized the urgent need for housing reform in the region. “With only 2.9% of homes in the Tweed being social and affordable, and 47% of renter households under rental stress, it’s clear affordable housing supply is out of step with our community’s needs,” Cr Cherry said.

“This Strategy represents signifcant progress in trying to address the housing crisis and ensuring that everyone in the Tweed has a place to

call home.”

While the council does not build homes, it can implement policies to require a percentage of homes to be affordable and encourage the construction of homes to address the housing gap.

“We need homes that our service workers, baristas, and cleaners can afford.

Without this, we will not be a strong, resilient community,” Cr Cherry added.

The council is asking residents to review the draft Strategy and provide input before 4 pm on Wednesday,

August 7, 2024. How to Have Your Say The draft Strategy, along with Frequently Asked Questions and Fact Sheets, can be viewed at Your Say Tweed. Residents can provide their input before 4 pm on Wednesday, August 7, 2024. Online information sessions will also be held during the exhibition period, and community members can register on the Your Say Tweed website.

The council collaborated with consultancy group URBIS to develop this draft Strategy and extends its gratitude to all key partners and community groups who provided valuable feedback through extensive workshops. These include Councillors, the Tweed community, Community Housing Providers, service providers, Aboriginal groups, and Council staff.

Without intervention, there will be a shortfall of up to 4,885 affordable and social homes in the Tweed by 2041. Council is urging residents to provide feedback on its draft Affordable Housing Strategy.

Be Fire Safe: Ensure your smoke alarms are working

By Janelle Saffn MP State Member for Lismore

AS WE move into the colder months, Fire and Rescue NSW has launched its winter safety campaign, with important messages about what you can do to be fre safe, and save lives.

Last winter, nearly half of the 1080 homes that were impacted by fre in NSW did not have a working smoke alarm. This fgure is far too high, especially considering approximately 20 people a year die in house fres in NSW that could have been prevented. Hundreds more people survive a fre but suffer life-changing health consequences.

In NSW, it’s a legal requirement to have working smoke alarms on every level of your home. You are twice as likely to die in a home fre if you don’t have a working smoke alarm.

Fire and Rescue NSW is urging the community to check they have a smoke alarm, test that it is working and if it isn’t, contact them for a free safety visit: https://fre. nsw.gov.au/safetyvisits

When a fre takes hold, every second counts. In less than 30 seconds, a small fame can turn into a major fre, that’s why having a fre escape plan is crucial for every household. Without a plan, lives are at risk.

I encourage you to visit the Fire and Rescue NSW website, download the template and draw up your escape plan. It’s recommended that residents practice their escape plan at least twice a year to ensure everyone knows what to do.

Remember, in case of fre: stay low, get out, and stay out! Ensure windows and doors have

quick-release devices. Protect your loved ones by planning and practicing your escape plan.

Download your plan today: https://fre.nsw. gov.au/befresafe Budget boosts housing, incentivises bulk billing

THE NSW Budget, handed down on June 18, was a responsible one which importantly addressed the historic neglect of social housing supply and frontline health worker accommodation, and which incentivised GP clinics to bulk bill more than 70 per cent of

patients.

Lismore has been identifed as a possible future location for some of the 120 new health worker dwellings, which may include building new accommodation, refurbishment of existing living quarters and possible purchase of suitable properties such as motels.

In Opposition, I successfully lobbied to keep the former Laurel Lodge in Lismore in public ownership, and had it repurposed as social housing units, so in Government,

I’ll strongly advocate for our fair share of this Budget’s record investment in new housing, including public housing.

If GP clinics across our electorate take up the Government’s new Bulk Billing Support Initiative (once legislated) it will help keep them viable, help reduce cost-of-living pressures on patients and take the pressure off hospital emergency departments.

I was pleased to see that the Budget had allocated funding to help deliver on some of my key

election commitments. I look forward to seeing these much-need projects, among many others, roll out.

These included:

• $3 million towards my $5-million election commitment supporting Resilient Lismore’s ‘Repair to Return’ program, formerly known as the ‘Two Rooms Project’.

• $5.5 million to continue safety improvements on the Bruxner Highway.

• $1 million to start planning for a major upgrade of the Alphadale Crossroads intersection on the Bruxner in Lismore City LGA.

• A $3.1 million grant to Tenterfeld Shire Council to complete the Mount Lindesay Road upgrade between Legume and Woodenbong.

• $4 million in grants to Kyogle Council towards improving food immunity of the Clarence Way between Sandilands and Bonalbo.

• $2.55 million in grants to Kyogle Council towards a major program to replace the LGA’s remaining 30 timber and composite bridges.

RDA Northern Rivers Welcomes New Director of Regional Development

The Hon. Donald Page, Chair of RDA Northern Rivers, is pleased to announce the appointment of Anthony

Shreenan as the new Director of Regional Development (DRD) for RDA Northern Rivers.

“I am delighted

to announce the appointment of Anthony Shreenan to the role of Director of Regional Development,” said Mr.

Page.

Anthony Shreenan brings extensive experience across multiple sectors, including healthcare, higher education, international marketing, and public administration. For the past 18 years, he has focused on regional development, working at various levels of local and state government.

His contributions have been instrumental in driving transformational projects, fostering industry development, and facilitating partnerships between the private and public sectors. Anthony has a proven track record in stakeholder engagement, project management, and problem-solving, which

he has consistently applied to advance the interests of the regions he serves.

“Anthony possesses the commitment and skills necessary for working with all levels of government and the private sector to strengthen RDA Northern Rivers as a key regional development agency,” said Mr. Page.

Mr. Shreenan expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I am focused on promoting industry development and fostering growth within the Northern Rivers region, building upon the foundations already laid by RDA Northern Rivers.

I am dedicated to enhancing regional

prosperity through strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts across diverse sectors and stakeholders and look forward to working with the RDA Northern Rivers Board and staff in the role of DRD.”

The RDA Northern Rivers Board also acknowledged the outgoing DRD, Alex Smith, and wished him well in his retirement.

“The Board thanks Alex Smith for his contribution and is excited to have Anthony take over the role,” said Mr. Page.

“I look forward to working with the Board to continue delivering on RDA’s charter across the Northern Rivers,” said Mr. Shreenan.

Janelle Saffn MP with the Fire + Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fretwell and Member for South Coast Liza Butler MP at the launch of the Winter Fire Safety campaign.

Windara. Planted by community, growing with Achieve

On behalf of everyone at Achieve Australia, CEO Jo-Anne Hewitt is excited to welcome Windara Communities as a new addition to our group.

The Windara café, function centre, retail nursery, and supported employment service for people with disability will continue to have local management. At the same time, Windara will be part of our plans to fnd new ways to live our passion for bringing inclusion to life for people with disability.

Achieve thanks the former Windara Communities Board and the Catholic Diocese of Lismore for entrusting Achieve Australia to continue to grow Windara as a wonderful community asset and supported disability employment service.

We also thank the Windara team for their support and enthusiasm about our shared future.

Achieve Australia is a for-purpose disability services organisation well-established in the Northern Rivers. We share the values and aspirations of Windara to serve the Northern Rivers community and support people with disability to grow and participate in community life.

We also take this opportunity to acknowledge all the people of the Northern Rivers who were part of setting up Windara in the early 1990s and the many others who have supported its growth over the years as champions, employees, volunteers, board members, and patrons.

Windara continues to be open for business so please visit us at 253 Sextonville Road Casino or contact us on 6662 3800 to make an enquiry or booking.

To learn more about Achieve Australia visit www.achieveaustralia.org.au

Tweed Shire Council Adopts $283 Million Budget for 2024/2025

Tweed Shire Council has approved a comprehensive $283 million budget for the 2024/2025 fscal year, focusing on critical improvements in water, roads, and waste infrastructure. This budget, ratifed at the recent Council meeting, aligns with the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework, encompassing:

• The 2022/2026 Delivery Program and 2024/2025 Draft Operational Plan

• The 2024/2034 Resourcing Strategy

• The 2024/2025 Revenue Policy and Statement

• The 2024/2025 Budget

• The 2024/2025 Fees and Charges

The 2024/2025 Operational Plan, which includes the budget, outlines the services, projects, and resources slated for the third year of the Delivery Program. It aims to fulfll the objectives set forth in the Community Strategic Plan. These documents were available for public

comment from April 22 to May 20, 2024, and received one submission.

The $283 million budget is sourced from three primary funds: $169 million from general funds, $56 million from water funds, and $58 million from sewerage funds.

Key capital works, totaling $68 million, will be fnanced during the 2024/2025 fnancial year,

including:

• $15.7 million for sewer infrastructure

• $15.6 million for resource recovery, including $4 million for waste transfer station infrastructure, $7 million for the Eviron Quarry landfll haul road, $4 million for constructing the Eviron Quarry landfll cell, and $600,000 for a new green organics drop-off

area

• $14.9 million for capital roadworks

• $2.7 million for the Clarrie Hall Dam project

• $2.9 million for relocating Council’s Works Depot to foodfree land

• $1.6 million for implementing the Council’s IT Enterprise Resource Planning project

• $800,000 for

stormwater drainage Mayor Chris Cherry emphasized that the budget maintains the Council’s strong fnancial position while balancing cost-ofliving pressures and infationary impacts on operations.

“In developing the Operational Plan and Budget, we have been mindful of balancing the cost-of-living pressures

on our ratepayers and residents against the current infationary impact on operations and providing core infrastructure to our community,” Cr Cherry stated.

To support the outlined projects and services, general fund rates will increase by 4.6%, as recommended by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART). This adjustment will result in ordinary minimum residential rates rising by $53.65 to $1,220.35, ordinary minimum business rates increasing by $59 to $1,341.45, and ordinary minimum farmland rates going up by $53.65 to $1,220.35 for the 2024/2025 year.

Additionally, annual charges for water, sewerage, and waste services will rise by $70.20, bringing the total minimum residential bill to $2,959.45 for the 2024/2025 fnancial year—a 4.37% increase. For more information, visit Tweed Shire Council’s Planning and Reporting.

BRUXNER HIGHWAY SLOPE STABILITY IMPROVEMENTS

Motorists can expect fewer natural disasterrelated interruptions to journeys on the Bruxner Highway following the completion of slope stability improvements at Saleyard Creek near Tabulam.

Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and Member for Lismore Janelle

Saffn said repair and improvement work on a landslip about one kilometre west of Tabulam was completed

ahead of schedule.

“The terrain on this section of the Bruxner Highway can be testing and workers faced a number of challenges to get the job done,” Ms Saffn said.

“Material along part

of the project was a combination of clay and granite and held a lot of water. That combined with rain throughout the project meant it was diffcult to handle.

Ms Saffn said the extreme weather events

of 2022 had resulted in two embankment slips in the area and the stability work was required to improve structural integrity and safety for road users.

“Motorists can now look forward to safer

and more reliable journeys on this section of the Bruxner Highway,” Ms Saffn said.

The work near Tabulam was jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments.

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Marine Rescue NSW Enhances Flood Rescue Capabilities in Northern Rivers Exercise

Marine Rescue NSW has conducted its frst-ever multi-agency food rescue and operational readiness exercise, aimed at bolstering its food rescue capabilities to support the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) and other agencies during signifcant weather emergencies across the state.

Following a $3.7 million allocation from the state government after the 2022 NSW Flood Inquiry, Marine Rescue NSW has established a State Operations Group (SOG). Volunteers within this group have undergone specialized food rescue and support training, utilizing the Service’s newly acquired multi-purpose vessels, vehicles, and equipment.

With this training, 36 volunteers from Marine Rescue NSW’s Northern Zone are now qualifed to deploy with assets at the request of the NSW SES, supporting food

response operations statewide.

Northern Zone

Commander Darren Hulm highlighted the exercise held at Copmanhurst to test the Service’s food rescue and support capability.

“The involvement of NSW SES in a Marine Rescue NSWcoordinated exercise provided invaluable real-world experience for our volunteers,” Hulm said. “These learnings will better prepare us for

actual deployments.”

Hulm emphasized that the exercise confrmed Marine Rescue NSW’s food response training and capabilities align with the NSW State Rescue Policy and meet the expectations of the NSW SES.

“We will continue to develop and enhance our State Operations Group to ensure we are best prepared when NSW SES requests our assistance,” he added.

“Communities across

NSW can be assured that Marine Rescue NSW’s SOG volunteers and assets are ready for deployment statewide.”

Capability Manager

Dave Bowing explained that the exercise simulated a real-time out-of-area deployment.

“To create a realistic scenario, volunteers were tasked with assisting the NSW SES in response to a Tropical Low expected to bring excessive rainfall to the Upper Clarence

and Orara catchments,” Bowing said. “Our mission involved working with NSW SES teams to safely conduct evacuations, resupplies, and rescues in the Copmanhurst area.”

The exercise saw 14 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from units at Point Danger, Brunswick, Ballina, Evans Head, and Port Macquarie, supported by operational staff, three multi-purpose vessels, and one infatable rescue

boat. The NSW SES contributed 14 on-water operators and multiple assets.

“Together, teams launched and retrieved vessels, located and retrieved manikins and simulated live victims, navigated hazards, and conducted resupply operations,” Bowing noted. He also praised the performance of the newly acquired multi-purpose vessels.

“These six-meter vessels, with their low draught and ability to navigate shallow waters, proved effective in the exercise. Their bow loading doors allow for safe movement of people and supplies, which is critical during food responses.”

The success of this inaugural exercise has informed refnements to Marine Rescue NSW’s activation and deployment model, ensuring readiness for real-life food response scenarios.

Windara Communities Joins Forces with Achieve Australia for Future Growth

Beloved Casino café, nursery, and venue

Windara joins disability organisation Achieve Australia to position for growth

• Windara to retain its brand presence, remain locally managed and retain its Casino heritage.

• Spotlight on training and employment opportunities for people with disability.

• Achieve Australia is already well-established in Casino committed to further investment in the Northern Rivers community.

Windara Communities has become part of Achieve Australia, a for-purpose disability services provider that runs several services in the Northern Rivers.

Comprising a commercial nursery, café, function centre, catering and lawn mowing services, Windara offers training and employment to people with disability while also serving as a treasured community facility.

The transition of Windara from the Catholic Diocese of Lismore to Achieve Australia took effect on 1 July 2024. All Windara staff retained their jobs and are now employed by Achieve Australia.

“We are thrilled the Diocese has entrusted us to build on all its great work to take Windara forward,” Achieve

Australia CEO Jo-Anne Hewitt said. “We are excited about the potential to create more services for people with disability while retaining Windara as a wonderful place for the people of the Northern Rivers to visit and enjoy.”

“Our passion at Achieve Australia is to bring inclusion to life for people with disability.

Windara shares our values through its adage, ‘where everyone is equal’ making it the perfect addition to our organisation,” Ms Hewitt said.

Windara was opened in 1991 by Bishop

Satterthwaite as a nursery where people with disability could work and learn. The enterprise has grown through the years adding more services, helped by the efforts of many Northern Rivers

residents as supporters, employees, volunteers, and patrons.

“We have long admired Windara and know of its place in the affections of the people of the Northern Rivers. Achieve Australia has also been a highly satisfed venue client,” Ms Hewitt said.

“Bringing Windara into our organisation is the result of many months of careful planning and we are so excited about the future,” Ms Hewitt said.

“Windara will continue to grow with Achieve.

The centre will retain a manager on site while being part of our larger team in Casino headed by Operations General Manager Ainsley Carpenter.”

“Windara is one of the ways Achieve Australia is investing in the Northern Rivers community. There is more to come as we explore new ways to

create opportunities for people with disability to learn, grow, and be part of community life,” she said.

From its base in Casino, Achieve Australia offers Supported Independent Living (SIL) services, runs a day service centre, holiday programs, and provides drop-in support for people with disability living around the Northern Rivers region.

In January 2024, Achieve Australia launched My Life True North to offer a two-week beach holiday experience at Evans Head to people with disability. The program was a success and will run again in January 2025.

A successful partnership between Windara and Achieve, that honours the legacy of work done so far and empowers the local community for growth.

Grant for cane harvester helps 2024 harvest get underway

The Lower Richmond River Cane Harvesting Co-operative has started harvesting this week, with the use of a next-generation harvester funded by a State and Federal grant.

Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery, Janelle Saffn, said the Co-op was able to buy a $930,000 sugar cane harvester with the support of funding under the Supply Chain Support Program.

“The Co-operative was heavily impacted by the 2022 foods, with sheds, machines, vehicles and parts damaged or lost.

“As a cooperative they were excluded from food recovery grant programs and I took up their case with NSW Agriculture minister Tara Moriarty and Federal Minister Murray Watt.

“I advocated for a second round of the Supply Chain Support Program to include cooperatives, and the Lower Richmond Co-op successfully applied for a grant under that program.

“Their new Case 9900 series harvester, the frst to operate in NSW, has increased harvesting capacity, lower fuel consumption, longer engine life, and automatically adjusts

to difference operating conditions.

“And it’s great to know the harvester was bought locally from Days Machinery.

Co-operative Chairman Pat O’Connor said the

$875,000 Supply Chain 50-50 grant enabled the purchase the harvester, a workshop truck, a forklift and a facility upgrade to make the workshop more resilient to cope with foods.

“There is no doubt that without Janelle Saffn’s intervention, harvesting co-operatives in NSW would not have received any assistance and it would have taken years to recover.

“We greatly appreciate the work Janelle has done for this Cooperati9ve and the Sugar Industry as a whole on a number of issues.”

Achieve Australia CEO Jo-Anne Hewitt

“

has views on just about anything

ONCE A ‘BOOMER’ always a BOOMER

I read lately about stu that Baby Boomers used to do that are now obsolete to a Millennial? I’ve noted however, ‘Mum Jane’ still ‘boomers’ around obliviously in her 74 year old world. Hmmm! Perhaps it’s time to set her right with a few actualities ‘cos she obviously hasn’t heard things have kinda changed & how much time she wastes? (It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ back.) ‘Mum, why do you iron things?

Have a landline phone? Still write letters & cards with a pen & ink and send them via the POST OFFICE? Sew & mend things? Have a cheque book? Drive a manual car? Have a esaurus and a Dictionary? Read books instead of a Kindle? Use a Phone Book? Cut your own hair? (Oh dear, the list just goes on!) ‘Mum, are you FREEE?’ As is her habit, she peered over her book and told me to go away & not pester her ‘cos she’s reading a book called ‘Mrs Chippy’s Last Expedition’ (again) about a cat (who was actually a boy, not a girl) who went to the Polar regions aboard the ship ‘Endurance’ on Ernest Shackleton’s legendary expedition. Mum informed me ‘that no iota of claptrap I had to talk to her about would be as spellbinding as Mrs Chippy’s story & to zip it.’ Crikey, that’s pretty rough language for a wrinkled little old lady. Too bad, I’m going to persist so I bit her ankle. ‘Mum, c’mon, tell me why you have anachronous habits and I’ll make you cups of tea for a week.’ She replied suspiciously with

eyebrows raised ‘With stem ginger bikkies?’ I acquiesced. ‘OK Mum, how come you still send cards & letters in envelopes, write stu on them with a pen & ink, then go to the Post O ce & buy stamps to send them? Using your phone or PC would be a more e cient use of your time?’ I got her ‘stare glare’ from hell and was told to listen. ‘Leems, there is nothing I abhor more than greeting cards & letters typed on or created by a computer & sent via the internet. In my view, it’s a most disrespectful approach to acceptable communication toward extra special people in my life. Gottit? I truly enjoy writing properly, not just bashing away at a keyboard (unless it’s a complaint to a business or something like that.) End of story!’ Hmmm! Perhaps I’ll raise another of her 1950 habits. ‘OK Mum, tell me why you still iron tea towels & pillow cases & handkerchiefs & T-Shirts & stu . Why not buy items made from crease resistant fabric? (She ordered Tea & Bikkies. Done!) ‘Leems, I like creases in things. I spray with water when I iron them, folding them & creating ni y creases. is brings a sense of order to my linen closet & cupboards, having stu in neat piles pointing the right way. AND Leems, I so much appreciate a clean creased ironed pillow case to lay my head upon at night, or a linen tea towel hanging neatly on a rack. And as for hankies, they must be ironed with creases as, quite simply, it makes me happy and that, to me, is important! I like order in my life!’ Oh dear me, I’m getting nowhere with this discourse so I’ll quit whilst behind & not bring up any more of her ‘old fashioned’ habits ‘cos it’s pointless. Ooooh, OMG, horror! I just noticed something awful! ‘MUM, how come my best Plush Blue Blankie on the chair in my room is not folded neatly enough for me to repose upon? You KNOW this upsets me!’ I reckon I’ll slink o somewhere pronto as the look on her pruney face was enough to make a volcano erupt. Nitey now, Leemo.

NSW Opposition Urges Reversal on Composite Power Pole Decision to Mitigate Power Price Hikes

By Ian Rogers

The NSW Opposition is urging the Minns Labor Government to reconsider its decision to replace hardwood power poles with composite poles, highlighting potential increases in power prices and adverse environmental impacts. Call for Government Intervention

During a visit to Coffs Harbour Hardwoods at its Glenreagh Mill, NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders, accompanied by Shadow Minister for the North Coast Gurmesh Singh, Member for Clarence Richie Williamson, Member for Oxley Michael Kemp, and industry representatives, called on Environment Minister Penny Sharpe to intervene. They emphasized the need to avoid further power

price hikes and provide stability for the timber industry.

“Hardwood has been hard done by here. Not only will this untested product be worse for the household budget by adding to power bills, but it will also be worse for the environment by increasing our carbon footprint,” said Mr. Saunders.

Impact on Cost of Living Shadow Minister for the North Coast Gurmesh Singh warned that the switch to composite poles would exacerbate the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

“It’s bad enough Labor’s budget didn’t allocate any funding to help families while times are tough, but now the Government is making decisions that will make things worse,” Mr. Singh remarked.

With infation effecting the lives of many, we don’t want you to miss out on enjoying your life. To help out with the cost of living, we have teamed up with some local businesses to offer discounts through a range of different products and services. Get in contact with these businesses today to fnd out more details. Each business will have there own terms and conditions. Please contact them today to fnd out more.

Support for the Timber Industry

Last week, the NSW Nationals party room reaffrmed its support for the hardwood and softwood timber industry, endorsing responsible and sustainable harvesting measures while opposing the transfer of productive state forests to national parks without strong scientifc justifcation for improved outcomes.

Regional Impacts

Member for Clarence Richie Williamson pointed out that recent timber supply reductions are a direct result of the Minns Labor Government’s decisions.

“All of the shutdowns we’ve seen over the past six months or so have been caused by this Government letting the timber industry down. It needs to do better to stand up for our regional

workers and businesses,” he said.

Backing Primary Producers Member for Oxley Michael Kemp reiterated the NSW Nationals’ commitment to primary producers, emphasizing the importance of the hardwood timber industry to the Mid North Coast. “Hardwood timber is the backbone of the Mid North Coast, and last week every single member of our parliamentary team showed their support for one of our most sustainable industries,” Mr. Kemp stated.

The NSW Opposition’s call to reverse the composite pole decision underscores a broader concern for economic stability, environmental sustainability, and the support of regional industries and communities.

Leemo

”

Richie Williamson, Singh & Kemp at Glenreagh Mill. Dugald Saunders at Glenreagh Mill.

By Samantha Elley

The next time you are at an event such as a wedding or birthday party, you may be lucky enough to experience the fun that is Capture360 & Photobooths Northern Rivers.

Thanks to the incredible team of Emma Youngberry and Ian Ashcroft, who are Casino locals, born and bred, celebrations are taking on a whole new depth of fun.

“I’ve always been interested in photography, taking photos and editing them,” said Emma.

“I do family photos and pregnancy photos and even did a wedding for a

friend.

“I always wanted to have a photo booth.”

The opportunity came up for the couple to purchase a photo booth and they took it.

They now have four photo booths, two enclosed and two open, that they hire out for the night where people use unique props to have a photo taken as a memory of the night.

Then contact with a friend in Queensland opened up a whole new world of photography for Emma.

“Just recently my friend in Queensland bought a 360 video booth,” she said.

“I got in contact with her

and asked what that was.”

Emma and Ian went from there and now they have a video booth.

“I did my research and found there were none on the Northern Rivers,” she said.

“I found out the closest was on the Gold Coast.”

Emma explained that with the Capture360 video booth, people stand on a platform while a video camera goes around them.

“You grab some props, bust a move and when its fnished you get instant sharing on your social platforms,” she said.

“So far, we’ve done a 21st, a 40th, two weddings and we have two more coming up.”

Stars of Casino was the frst big charity event the business has done, since purchasing the Capture360, but they hope to do many more.

“There were about 350 people at Stars in Casino at the RSM Club,” said Emma.

“It was a bit last minute, but we reached out.”

The result was a great night for the community with more momentum built for the burgeoning business.

Being local, Emma and Ian can guarantee reasonable prices and great service for your event.

“I do personalised photo design as well,” said Emma.

“If you are getting married and you want a pink backdrop, I can do that for the photo booths and the video.

“We also have neon lights that add to the experience.”

There are reasonably priced packages for whatever your needs are and the couple are also happy to provide custom prices.

“We have packages ranging from Basic to Platinum made up for certain hours,” said Emma.

“As an example our top package provides the Capture360 and the photobooth for six hours (including set up and packing away) for $1200.

“This includes the backdrop, lights, neon signs, props, a custom photo strip, USB with all the photos and a 50 page guest book.”

Capture 360 covers all the Northern Rivers, including Grafton to the Tweed.

Quotes can be arranged for travel to further destinations.

Check out Capture360 & Photobooths Northern Rivers on Facebook and Instagram to see what you could be experiencing at your next big event.

You can contact them at 0412 215 486.

CAPTURE 360 & PhotoboothS

Advertorial

By Rob Heyward

Lismore City Council Approves Historic $301 Million Budget

In a landmark decision, Lismore City

Council has passed an unprecedented $301 million budget, focusing on operational effciency, liveability, and prudent investment to service the community while promoting sustainability and growth.

Commitment to Sustainable Growth and Operational Effciency

Mayor Steve Krieg emphasized that the budget, part of the council’s long-term fnancial plan, is designed to foster economic and social responsibility, ensuring Lismore’s prosperity.

“This budget represents our plan for continuing to deliver on the sustainable rebuild of Lismore. It sets a strong plan to ensure we take strides toward growing as a prosperous, connected, and thriving regional hub of the Northern Rivers,” he stated.

Focus on Essential Services and Community Needs

A signifcant portion of the budget, $209.9 million, is allocated to essential services including water, waste, sewer, roads,

and bridges. Mayor Krieg highlighted the community’s mandate for fnancially sustainable operations with responsible use of ratepayer funds. “A majority of our budget is invested in the essential services our community cares about the most,” he said.

The budget also includes a $18 million investment in city asset maintenance, featuring a 30.7% increase in drain and stormwater management. Additionally, the council is investing in a vast road network, extensive sewer and water pipes, and

maintaining numerous parks and open spaces.

Investing in Liveability and Community Services

Beyond essential services, the council is investing $19.8 million into facilities and services that enhance Lismore’s liveability. This includes pools, libraries, parks, sporting clubs, walking trails, galleries, dog parks, and community events. Nearly $7 million is earmarked for community services and assets that support a safer city, with $2.5 million allocated to affordable housing initiatives.

Support for Vulnerable Residents and Community

Projects

The budget also provides $1.43 million in discounts and concessions to ease fnancial burdens for those in need.

Councillors approved additional funds for various community projects, including $25,000 for sharps disposal bins, $20,000 in cash and $20,000 in-kind support for the Lismore Lantern Parade, $1,100 for Magpie Centre administration, and $30,000 for the Eltham Public School safety project. They also

amended the Delivery Program to seek funding for a footpath/cycleway between Dunoon and Modanville.

Budget Highlights:

• Total Budget: $301 million – Backing Lismore

• Capital Investment: $134.5 million –Building Lismore

• Increase in Drain and Stormwater Investment: 30.7% –Investing in what matters

• Borrowings: $0

– Limiting burden on ratepayers

• Roads and Bridges

Investment: $74.2 million – Repairing and reconstructing our

transport network

• Sewer Charges: $0 increase

• Rate Increase: 4.7% – Maintaining rate peg set by the State Government

• Affordable Housing: $2.5 million investment

• Natural Disaster Restoration Works: $107.3 million total investment

• Lismore Urban Sports Precinct: $1.3 million to complete

• Basic Services Investment: $209.9 million – Water, waste, sewer, roads, bridges (including funded capital works)

• Liveability Investment: $19.81 million – Sports facilities, galleries, libraries, events, pools, dog parks, community assets, playgrounds

• Community Support: $4.8 million direct investment

– Concessions, free events, affordable housing, waiver of leasing fees, free grounds maintenance for community sporting clubs

The 2024-2025 budget underscores Lismore City Council’s commitment to balancing essential services with the amenities that make Lismore a vibrant and sustainable community.

Survey reveals Northern Rivers public schools stretched to breaking point

A survey of public school teachers and principals in the Northern Rivers reveals how the combined impact of the $1.9 billion funding shortfall and teacher shortage is leading to merged classes, poorer student wellbeing and unsustainable workloads, the NSW Teachers Federation has warned.

NSW Teachers Federation President Henry Rajendra will hold a doorstop with local teachers at Lismore High School Campus at 8:15am on Tuesday, 25 June

The survey of 288 principals and teachers across Northern Rivers found:

• 39% have taught merged/split classes regularly or always;

• 96.5% agree that “schools as a whole currently have diffculty in retaining teachers in the profession”;

• 17% are committed to staying in the profession until retirement;

• Only 3.5% of teachers say their school is well-resourced;

• 75% reported a decline or signifcant decline in student wellbeing and engagement in past 18

months;

• 91% reported a decline or signifcant decline in teacher wellbeing and morale;

• Only 15% say counsellor support is adequate.

NSW Teachers Federation President Henry Rajendra said Northern Rivers public schools were facing immense challenges due to the funding shortfall.

“Amazing things happen in our public schools every day, but the Government is exploiting the goodwill of teachers to maintain standards. This is not sustainable.

“The challenges facing our schools are too great, and the cost of inaction too high. We need the state and federal governments to step up and deliver the funding our schools so urgently need.

“The Federal Government must lift its share of funding to 25% by 2028, while the NSW Government must ensure that public schools are genuinely funded at 100% of the Schooling Resource Standard.

“Providing a quality education for every child is not just a moral imperative, it’s an

economic necessity. Today’s students are the lifeblood of tomorrow’s workforce.

Shortchanging their education now will have consequences for decades to come.”

Mr Rajendra said it was time for federal MPs to fght for their local public schools, pointing out that public schools educate the overwhelming bulk of the region’s students.

Electorate Number of public school students

Percentage of total students Page: 15,687

65.3 per cent

Richmond 13,123

56.9 per cent

“Our schools and our students need champions in Parliament who will stand up and demand fair funding,” he said.

“It’s time to stop the excuses and start investing in our children’s future. Every student in the Northern Rivers deserves the resources and support they need to thrive.”

Mr Rajendra said fully funding public schools was the only way to ensure every child in the Northern Rivers got the support they needed to succeed.

Samantha’s Book

WAVE OF CASH FOR EVANS AND YAMBA SURF LIFE SAVING CLUBS

Escaping Yugoslavia

Title: Escaping Yugoslavia

Author: Leonard Kopilas

Price: $22.95

Publisher: Shawline

Publishing By Samantha Elley

Communist rule sucks! at is the thinking of Raj Krizic, a young man growing up in the newly formed state of Yugoslavia. Party membership is forced on all citizens and if there is dissension, the rebels have to get used to the idea of a substandard life. No education, no bene ts and virtual starvation.

When Raj turns 18 he has to make a decision: enter the compulsory military service or run away.

With a friend by his side and his brother already escaped, Raj takes the most daring option and makes his way to the border of Italy.

The Evans Head-Casino and Yamba Surf Life Saving Clubs are the big winners from the NSW Government’s latest round of funding under the Surf Club Facility Program, Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson has announced.

“Evans Head-Casino has been awarded over $84,077 to reduce

their electricity costs by installing solar panels and to upgrade the security system to keyless entry, while Yamba has secured $124,608 to replace the surf club’s existing deck and verandah fooring,” Mr Williamson said.

“These grants will ensure the clubhouses are well maintained and equipped to train

our next generation of surf lifesavers in a modern and sustainable environment.

“Surf Life Saving Clubs like Evans Head and Yamba are often the hub of their local communities, and our volunteer lifesavers should have access to ft-for-purpose facilities so they can focus on saving lives.

“The clubhouses are often used as a function rooms for weddings and other community events so the whole community will beneft from these upgrades.

“Surf Clubs don’t just save lives, they teach young people all sorts or life skills to equip them for the future, so this is a really good investment.”

The Koori Mail Indigenous Art Award

Entries are open until 1 September 2024.

On the way, the two men have close calls with the communist regime but are also helped along by some locals.

ere is no rest for the two runaways as they search for freedom far away from their families and the country they grew up in.

Raj searches desperately for his brother, who leaves his some clues along the way.

Will the friends ever be able to settle in a country where they can be free and not a prisoner in a country they belonged to as an accident of birth?

Escaping Yugoslavia is Leonard Kopilas’ second book.

e rst was Memoirs of a Stay-At-Home Dad. He is a musician as well as an author and lives in Melbourne, Australia with his wife and two children. You can pre-order your copy of Escaping Yugoslavia from www. shawlinepublishing.com. au.

The Koori Mail Indigenous Art Award 2024 is an art prize for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, frst launched at Lismore Regional Gallery in 2021. Established, midcareer, and emerging Indigenous artists working in any medium are encouraged to enter

the prize. This non-acquisitive award is free to enter. Shortlisted artworks will be included in the exhibition at Lismore Regional Gallery from 30 November 2024 to 2 February 2025. For further information and access to the entry form, visit the Lismore Gallery website.

Youth School Holiday Programs

Get creative during these school holidays at our free youth-focused workshops.

Painting with wool (12 - 17 years)

In this hands-on workshop, facilitated by Courtney Heffernan, participants will explore the fascinating art of wet felting, a traditional technique that transforms wool fbres into beautiful works of art. By the end of the session, each participant will have created their own unique wool painting to take home and proudly display.

Event details: Thursday, 18 July, 10am - 12pm

Koori Mail, 11 Molesworth St, Lismore Registration is essential as limited places are available.

Lino printing on t-shirts and tote bags (16 - 24 years) This workshop will cover the basics of lino printing. Participants can bring a design to the workshop or use nature-related templates created by the facilitator, Estefania Minniti. Carve, ink, and press your masterpiece onto paper or fabric. Tote

bags and paper will be provided. Participants can bring their own t-shirt to print on.

Event details:

Thursday, 18 July, 10am - 12pm

Koori Mail, 11 Molesworth St, Lismore Registration is essential as limited places are available

After School Art Class for Teens

We are continuing our after school art class for tweens and teens throughout the term at a new location—the

Lismore Library meeting room. Come make new friends and learn new skills with artist Rosie Gordon.

Event Details: Every Wednesday, 4pm - 5.30pm Lismore Library meeting room

Lismore Shopping Centre, Shop T03, Terania St, Lismore Price: $20 per class

To book in or enquire for these programs, please visit the Lismore Regional gallery website.

Evans Head-Casino SLSC.

BROADWATER PUBLIC SCHOOL P&C LAUNCHES SAVE BROADWATER SCHOOL

Broadwater Public School P&C invites the public to our community dinner and launch night to support Save Broadwater School.

An event to show how important Broadwater Public School is to our local community and to highlight the signifcance of returning our school to Broadwater NOW.

@SAVE

BROADWATER SCHOOL

Broadwater Public School has been at a temporary school site for more than two years since the food. The temporary site is outside of the Broadwater township, it is small and congested with no access to their own open space and lacks many other facilities. Our students are suffering at this inadequate temporary facility.

The redesigned school signifcantly improves food resilience and is well above the recently updated food model, while complying with additional food planning requirements. The DA has been through two years of planning and technical assessments and is the defnition of Building Back Better.

Now the Development Application (DA) for the rebuild has been

signifcantly delayed and is now at risk of NOT being approved by the Regional Planning Panel and Richmond Valley Council.

We are asking the

Regional Planning Panel to approve the DA for the school rebuild without delay, prioritising the students welfare and valuing the social, economic and

mental health benefts of returning the school to Broadwater immediately.

The P&C submission to the DA (copy attached) details our current situation, how it is

impacts on our student’s welfare, the serious and irreversible impacts to students and the Broadwater Community if the DA is rejected or delayed further and how the redesign of the school has signifcantly increased its resilience.

The Regional Planning Panel and Richmond Valley Council has an opportunity to make this school rebuild a successful food recovery project, a model one.

Please read our attached submission and contact Emma Crethar with any questions or media comments. Otherwise, we hope to the as many people there on Saturday 6th July at Broadwater Hall.

QR Supplied: Link to PDF Submission

CONVERGE to Revitalize Lismore’s CBD with Artistic Vibrancy

Lismore City Mayor

Steve Krieg and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn, alongside Aunty Thelma and some of the CONVERGE artists, have inaugurated the CONVERGE initiative, Lismore’s Creative Enterprise Development Program, at 123 Woodlark Street.

CONVERGE is an innovative inner-city artist-in-residence and creative enterprise development program designed to provide selected artists with a dedicated space to develop and create art. “Lismore has long been recognized as a creative powerhouse, boasting a large, diverse, and talented artistic community,” said Mayor Krieg.

A core group of 11 local artists will now occupy the previously

vacant building at 123 Woodlark St, transforming it into a vibrant space for artistic collaboration and skill exchange. “Every week, new businesses are opening in the CBD, and life is certainly returning to the city.

CONVERGE will add to the colour and bustle of Lismore, bringing positive economic outcomes through increased visitation and local spending,” Mayor Krieg added. “Supporting our creative community by providing spaces to create and showcase work is crucial for fostering community connection and promoting Lismore’s arts and culture.”

The program follows a highly competitive Expressions of Interest process, which resulted in the selection of the

following artists:

• Michelle Gilroy: Lismore artist focusing on self-portraits that highlight her experiences as a person with a disability.

• ‘It’s’: A collaboration between Scott Sinclair and Aaron McGarry, merging cosmic themes with innovative artistic materials and processes.

• Karenza Ebejer: A socially engaged video artist and documentary flmmaker exploring relationships to place,

culture, and identity.

• Matt O’Brien: An artist whose work connects personal experiences with the Australian landscape, creating intimate dialogues between the individual and country.

• Adrienne Kenafake: A multi-disciplinary artist working with sculpture, performance, and installation to explore the potential of objects as emotional and cultural archives.

• Antoinette O’Brien:

A fgurative ceramics artist deeply committed to community, refecting on place, sky, sea, and soil in her work.

• Paul Walker: An independent dancer and performance artist with a focus on community arts and interactive performances.

• Annie Monks: A visual artist exploring healing through art, inspired by relationships with community and Country.

• Chris Lego: An artist working across various mediums, including zine self-publishing, screen printing, and DJing, with a focus on chaotic and unique event decor.

• Stefanie Miriklis: An artist transforming found objects and memories into thought-provoking works addressing societal adaptation and climate change.

CONVERGE is funded by the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) to support the arts sector in the aftermath of the 2022 foods. Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn emphasized the economic importance of investing in the arts.

“It’s estimated that every dollar spent on the arts in NSW is worth $1.88 to the economy. The Converge project is another way to promote our region as a place where creatives can thrive,” she said. The program aims to foster economic and community recovery by leveraging the arts.

“We have seen how arts events like the LisAmore festival and Lismore Lantern Parade can lift community spirits.

CONVERGE will continue this positive impact,” Saffn added.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg, Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn and Aunty Thelma with come of the CONVERGE artists who have taken up residence at 123 Woodlark Street.

Nigel Dawe

I must’ve only been about 12, getting my $4 an hour as a shop assistant after school in a relative’s arts and frames store when I first came across the allure of Salvador Dali. An eccentric artist who called his own shots, if ever there was one. But he once so aptly thundered, “The thermometer of success is merely the jealousy of the malcontents.”

And funnily enough, the first time I heard this was during the only time I was ever picked on as a kid, having recently scored my school’s captaincy, which brought me into the narky sights of people who I thought were my friends. As hurtful as it all was, it taught me the most invaluable lesson I was to ever learn: that the cruel snipes of others rarely have anything to do with what we actually do or say, however good or bad.

Much later I came across the following bull’s eye of a comment by the German archer of deep fathoming, Frederich Nietzsche, “The higher you ascend, the smaller you become to the eyes of envy.” And when you reflect on the flung spleen of those who try to ‘belittle’ you, that’s all it is: an attempt to reduce your standing to somehow enhance their own meagre occupied vacuum.

Sadly, Shannon Alder came very close to a recurring interpersonal truth when she once noted, “There will always be someone willing to hurt you, put you down, gossip about you, belittle your accomplishments and judge your soul. It is a fact that we all must face.” And if there is anything overlooked in such a sentiment, then

Shaking Up Weight Loss: CSIRO Research Finds Meal Replacement Offering Stacks

Signifcant Findings from the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet

A new analysis reveals the effcacy of CSIRO’s Fast Start meal replacement shakes, part of the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet online program, in helping Australians begin their weight loss journey. The study found that 98 per cent of members lost weight within 12 weeks.

Key Results

Bette Midler ‘iced the cake’ when she suggested, “The worst part of success is trying to find someone who is happy for you.”

Which is nothing new, as none other than the Elizabethan, one-man-universe of elevated thought, William Shakespeare wove into his play, Othello, the still rumbling line, “O, beware, my lord, of jealousy; It is the green-eyed monster, which doth mock the meat it feeds on.” And as such, us mere mortals can only imagine the extent and lengths Shakespeare’s contemporaries went to ‘to bring him down a peg or two’.

On that note, it is incredible to think that the bard from StratfordUpon-Avon is credited as having created over 1,700 words (not to mention countless phrases) that never existed in English before he ‘graced the stage’. From words like bedroom, eyeball, gossip, and zany; to phrases like ‘wild goose chase’ and ‘the world is my oyster’; Shakespeare left by far the greatest imprint of any cultural figure upon the English language, as we know it.

The price of being ridiculed and loathed by those who couldn’t hold a candle to Shakespeare’s talents, must have surely brought him joy, if anything. Or, as he also made stealth mention in Othello, “Trifles light as air are to the jealous confirmations strong as proofs of holy writ.” And as it turned out, the full extent of what could be considered ‘holy writ’ in every sense of the phrase, belonged to the hand of Shakespeare alone.

The analysis of over 10,300 members showed remarkable outcomes:

• 12-Week Results: 28 per cent of participants moved out of the obese category.

• 24-Week Results: 31 per cent achieved the same milestone after 24 weeks.

• Clinically Signifcant Weight Loss: 75 per cent of members lost at least fve per cent of their starting body weight, and 20 per cent lost 10 per

cent or more.

The Fast Start Approach

The Fast Start program is designed to help overweight or obese Australians adopt sustainable and healthy dietary changes. The program begins with partial meal replacements and includes education, behavior change support, and structured meal plans. After three weeks, members transition to the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet’s whole foods meal plan for the remainder of the program.

Importance of Early Success

CSIRO Research

Scientist Dr. Gilly Hendrie emphasized the importance of the initial phase in sustaining behavior change. “When people feel their clothes are ftting better, have more energy, or see the numbers dropping on

the scales, it helps stay motivated to stick at it,” Dr. Hendrie said. She noted that meal replacements alone are not a long-term solution, as many people revert to old eating habits once they stop using shakes.

The transition to a whole foods program is crucial for long-term success.

Aligning with National Goals

The fndings are in line with the World Health Organisation’s aim to halt the rise of obesity, and Australia’s National Obesity Strategy.

“Australia needs to strive to stop the increase in obesity rates observed over the past 10 years if we are to reduce chronic disease and have a healthier population,” Dr. Hendrie stated.

Growing Popularity

Since its launch in January 2023, the Fast Start program has quickly gained

popularity, with memberships now comprising over onequarter of the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet member base.

Conclusion Sustainable and holistic programs like the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet are critical to reducing obesity and chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. By supporting individuals in their weight loss journey and equipping them with the knowledge and tools to build healthier habits, these programs contribute to a healthier and longer-living Australian population. For more information on the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet and the Fast Start program, visit the CSIRO website.

Jealousy is a curse…by

Photo courtesy of CSIRO Website

High Schoolers Haven Set to Transform Youth Opportunities in Lismore

A Collaborative Effort to Empower Local Youth

Lismore City Council, in partnership with ABC Takeover Lismore winners from the May leadership summit, is launching a groundbreaking initiative for local youth: High Schoolers Haven. This project aims to redefne opportunities for teenagers in Lismore, providing a vibrant framework for pop-up events where young people can develop skills, build connections with peers and mentors, and offer valuable feedback on their community.

Commitment to Youth Empowerment

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg emphasized the Council’s dedication to supporting young people, highlighting this initiative as a pivotal opportunity to empower and connect the city’s future leaders.

“There have been ongoing collaborative efforts since November 2023 involving Council, the Offce for Regional Youth, and the Richmond Police District to amplify youth voices,” Mayor Krieg said. “High Schoolers Haven is an outcome of this collaboration and something we hope will establish a successful framework that can be replicated in any community or location

moving forward.”

Youth-Led Initiative

Artesia, one of the ABC Takeover summit winners and a key fgure in the development of High Schoolers Haven, pointed out the lack of social opportunities for teenagers outside of school. “As a teenager, I would much rather attend events organized by my peers, trusting that they know how to create activities we truly enjoy,” she said.

Activities and Engagement

High Schoolers Haven will offer a range of activities from sports to arts at the Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre stadium, complemented by dedicated chill-out spaces for relaxation and socializing. In addition to recreational activities, the initiative will feature local youth organizations available for young people to engage with.

Pilot Phase and Data Collection

The pilot phase of High Schoolers Haven will kick off with events scheduled on Friday evenings: 5 July, 2 August, 6 September, 4 October, and 1 November from 4 pm to 7 pm. Comprehensive data collection during these sessions – covering attendee numbers, costs, community backing, and participant input – will be crucial in

assessing the initiative’s sustainability and identifying potential future funding avenues. Call for Support

All interested organizations, individuals, and groups are invited to support these events by submitting a supporter application at the High Schoolers Haven page on Your Say Lismore. Young people wanting to attend the events can also register on this page.

Conclusion

High Schoolers Haven represents a signifcant step forward in providing meaningful opportunities for youth in Lismore. Through this initiative, the community can come together to support and empower its young members, fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment for future generations.

For more information and to get involved, visit Your Say Lismore.

Tweed Regional Gallery Announces Finalists for 2024 Wollumbin Art Award

By Ian Rogers

The Tweed Regional Gallery is thrilled to reveal the fnalists for the prestigious biennial Wollumbin Art Award (WAA), celebrating the artistic talent and diversity in the region. This year, 72 fnalists have been selected from a pool of 461 entries. Their works will be featured in a fnalist exhibition at the Gallery from Friday, 6 September 2024. Selection and Judging Panel

The pre-selection panel for the award included Sebastian Goldspink, Director of Hazelhurst Arts Centre and proud descendant of the Burramattagal people of Western Sydney; Tina Wilson, Exhibitions

Curator at Tweed Regional Gallery; and Gallery Director Ingrid Hedgcock. Respected local Elder Aunty Joyce Summers also joined the panel for all First Nations entries. Ms. Hedgcock noted the high quality of submissions, making the selection process particularly challenging.

“We had an incredibly strong pool of entries this year, and we sincerely thank all artists who submitted their work,” said Ms. Hedgcock. “We look forward to sharing the fnalist exhibition with everyone in September.”

Awards and Prizes

Finalists are competing for a $15,000 First Prize, which will be announced at the Awards night on Saturday, 7 September,

starting at 5 pm. Other awards include a $10,000 First Nations Bundjalung Award, sponsored by the Tweed Regional Gallery Foundation Ltd, and a $5,000 Emerging Artist Award, supported by Leanne & Greg Tong-Lyon. Guest judge Sebastian Goldspink will select the winners after viewing all installed artworks.

Wollumbin Youth Art

Award

The 2024 Wollumbin Youth Art Award (WYAA) winners will also be announced on the same night. Claire Conroy, the Gallery’s Education and Audience Development Offcer, emphasized the importance of recognizing young artists alongside their more established peers.

“The simultaneous

announcement of the WAA and WYAA winners allows young artists to share the spotlight with emerging and established artists, building their confdence and offering them a valuable professional experience,” Ms. Conroy said. “We encourage all young artists to continue their creative pursuits and take advantage of the many opportunities at the Gallery.”

Jodi Ferrari, Children’s Gallery Coordinator at HOTA Home of the Arts, will serve as the guest judge for the WYAA and will review the young fnalists’ artworks before making her fnal decision.

Exhibition Details

The WAA exhibition will showcase a wide range of artistic

practices, including photography, printmaking, painting, textiles, ceramics, and flmmaking. It will feature works from both well-established and emerging artists across the region. The exhibition will run from Friday, 6 September to Sunday, 24 November. The WYAA exhibition will be on display from Friday, 6 September to Sunday, 17 November. For those unable to attend in person, the Gallery’s Instagram channel will provide live-streamed award announcements starting at 5:45 pm on Saturday, 7 September.

For more information and a full list of fnalists, visit Tweed Regional Gallery.

Greater Bank Opens Up Financial Literacy Program Across North Coast Classrooms

The Greater Bank Finance Academy

The Greater Bank Finance Academy is excited to announce that teachers across the North Coast will be able to deliver the High School Financial Literacy Program in 2024. This free program empowers Year 9 and 10 students with crucial fnancial literacy skills by providing a full course curriculum for classroom delivery.

Program Overview

The curriculum covers essential topics such as budgeting, saving, planning for the future, and understanding fnancial products like credit cards and loans. It also addresses

modern fnancial trends, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the fnancial world they will navigate.

Greater Bank Chief Distribution Offcer, Emma Brokate, emphasized the program’s goal of inspiring students with vital money management skills.

“Financial literacy isn’t just about managing money; it’s about encouraging individuals to make informed decisions that enhance their fnancial stability and wellbeing,” said Ms. Brokate. She highlighted that enabling teachers to deliver the full program ensures

that more students can access essential money management skills directly within their educational environment.

Collaboration and Benefts

This initiative is a collaborative effort between Greater Bank and the University of Newcastle, blending academic insights with practical fnancial experience. Dean of the University of Newcastle Business School, Professor James Skinner, underscored the benefts of the partnership. “Our collaboration with Greater Bank is built on a shared commitment to education and community

engagement,” Professor Skinner said. “We are proud to enhance fnancial literacy in our communities and offer our students practical experiences that prepare them for the future.”

The program benefts high school students by providing them with practical fnancial knowledge, while also offering university students valuable experience as ambassadors, ensuring they are job-ready upon entering the workforce.

Course Content

The short course consists of four core subjects and three electives, all aligned with the NSW High School Curriculum.

The downloadable lesson plans, activities, and presentation slides provided to teachers include:

• Lesson 1 –Introduction to Financial Literacy

• Lesson 2 – The Fundamentals of Financial Literacy

• Lesson 3 – Savings and Budgeting

• Lesson 4 – Credit and Debit Banking

Additionally, three optional electives are available to tailor the program to the school’s needs:

• Elective 1 – Investing

• Elective 2 –Cybercrime and Scams

• Elective 3 –Employment Participation and

Accessibility

Schools interested in participating in the Greater Bank Finance Academy can visit www.greater.com.au/ uon to get in touch. The program is designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that students from various backgrounds and regions can beneft.

This initiative refects Greater Bank’s commitment to rolling out an Australiancurriculum-aligned program across all of NSW, highlighting the signifcant benefts of enhancing fnancial literacy among young Australians.

Entry from Byron Bay-based artist Lorriane Dean. Bloom, 2024, ceramic, 30 x 65 x 20 cm.

One of the fnalists in this year’s Wollumbin Art Award: Gold Coast-based artist Elizabeth Dodds, Glazy Sundays 2024, oil on canvas, 60 x 91 cm.

Weaving by the River 2024, acrylic on cotton canvas, 122 x 101 cm by Tweed-based Wiradjuri artist Hannah Lange.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX MARKET REPORT 26/06/2024

Cattle sales at the NRLX saw a slight increase in numbers on Wednesday, June 26, with a total yarding of 1,650 head. The young cattle yarding was predominantly composed of weaners, many of which displayed mixed quality due to winter conditions. Despite this, several runs of wellbred weaner steers and heifers were featured in the sale.

Queensland buyers remained active in the market, securing a signifcant portion of the weaner cattle. The absence of some usual restocker buyers led to a softer market, with most stocker weaner cattle selling at 20 cents

GRAFTON

in short supply, however there were some good quality pens on offer which generally held frm. Light Weaners and poor-quality cattle are becoming very hard to sell.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DONOVAN LIVESTOCK & PROPERTY PH: 02 6643 4411

GRAFTON FAT CATTLE SALE 25/06/2024

388 Total Head Yarded - 190 Export 198 Young Cattle

The last cattle sale for the fnancial year saw a generally good yarding of stock come forward. There were mixed results throughout the yarding with only a small gallery of buyers operating. Bullocks sold to a frm market whilst Cows continue to slide, with only one sale of heavy cows over 200c/kg. Young cattle were

TENTERFIELD

BROUGHT TO YOU BY HAROLD CURRY PH: 02 6736 1344

TENTERFIELD MARKET REPORT 24.06.2024

Cows sell to $1,436.16 - Number Yarded: 556

Numbers increased this sale with a yarding of 556 mixed quality cattle, with all categories meeting a cheaper market – similar to last week’s markets. Another small

WARWICK

LIVESTOCK MARKET REPORT FOR WARWICK & DISTRICT, WEEK ENDING 28/6/24

This week, the livestock markets maintained robust trading activity as the fnancial year drew to a close amidst the onset of frost, infuencing market dynamics. Cattle numbers remained steady with 971 head, featuring a notable increase in light store types compared to previous weeks. Sheep and lamb numbers saw a slight uptick, with lambs dominating the market split at 80%, primarily falling within lighter trade weights.

Summary of Livestock Prices:

Vealer Steers: Averaged 263.7c/kg, peaking at 318.2c/kg or $579.89 to $910.85.

Vealer Heifers: Averaged 210.8c/kg, topping at 276.2c/kg or $420.87 to $856.22.

Feeder Steers: Averaged 299.2c/kg, with a top price of 340.2c/kg or $1086.00 to $1314.96.

Feeder Heifers: Averaged 254.3c/kg, reaching up to 266.2c/kg or $875.08 to $909.85.

Yearling Steers: Averaged 294.4c/kg, peaking at 339.2c/ kg or $900.51 to $1529.78.

Yearling Heifers: Averaged 240.1c/kg, with a high of 364.2c/kg or $691.06 to $1484.12.

Steers: Averaged 282.5c/kg, topping at 321.2c/kg or $1213.92 to $1643.39.

Heifers: Averaged 202.6c/kg, reaching up to 263.2c/kg or $826.41 to $1494.36.

Cows: Averaged 160.2c/kg, with a top price of 216.2c/kg or $759.56 to $1760.00.

Bulls: Averaged 239.2c/kg, peaking at 274.2c/kg or $928.48 to $1990.70.

In the sheep market:

Lambs: Topped at $200, averaging $136.35 ($36/head increase).

Hoggets: Topped at $120, averaging $96.74 ($12/head increase).

HIGHLIGHTS

• Phil Bailey sold Angus Cross Bullocks 214.2c/kg averaged 848kg - $1,816.68 p/hd

• Sumo Cattle Company sold Wagyu Cross Steers 260.2c/ kg averaged 636.7kg – $1,656.61 p/hd

• MC & EM Fuller sold an Angus Cow 190c/kg weighed 645kg - $1,225.50

• G McCarthy sold Angus Cross Cows 190.2c/kg averaged 600kg - $1,141.20 p/hd

• B Crispin & T Clark sold Brangus Cross Cows 195ckg

yarding of bullocks topped at 258.2 cents, whilst feeder steers sold to 374.2 cents.

In the cow section heavy cows topped at 211.2 cents, medium weights to 197.2 cents while light weights reached at 150 cents, heifers sold to 240 cents. Trade cattle were mixed in quality with lightweight Angus weaner steers topping at 400.2 cents, whilst the heifers sold to 319.2 cents, both returning to the paddock. The plain yarding of bulls sold to 201.2 cents.

Ewes: Topped at $97, averaging $70.03 ($10/head increase).

Wethers: Topped at $126, averaging $87.96 ($15/head increase).

Rams: Topped at $100, averaging $74.38 ($11/head increase).

Lamb Rams: Topped at $117, averaging $105.95 ($33/ head increase).

Ewe Lambs: Topped at $166, averaging $110.88 ($45/ head decrease).

The overall sale average across all categories was $112.39, refecting a weekly increase of $13 per head.

Other Livestock and Poultry Prices:

Pork: Boars sold from $142 to $160, Sows from $50 to $308, Baconers from $70 to $80, Pork from $183 to $220, and Sores from $38 to $180.

Poultry: Pullets and drakes sold up to $32.50, geese up to $40, ducks up to $12.50, guinea fowl up to $12.50, turkey hens up to $57.50, peacocks at $50/pair, ducklings in groups from $17.50 to $30, hens up to $30, and roosters up to $22.50.

This week’s market report refects stable trading conditions amidst seasonal adjustments, with notable price movements across various livestock categories and poultry.

MC DOUGALL & SONS

LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK & DISTRICT

Agents and vendors collaborated to deliver a total of 1,841 head for the weekly sale. The yarding comprised an 80/20 split between lambs and hoggets versus mutton, with the majority of lambs falling into the lighter trade category.

MARKET HIGHLIGHTS:

• Lambs: Topped at $200, averaging $136.35 (up $36/ head)

• Hoggets: Topped at $120, averaging $96.74 (up $12/ head)

per kilogram cheaper. Restocker weaner steers fetched prices between 198c and 332c, averaging 294c, while restocker weaner heifers ranged from 164c to 300c, averaging 240c/kg.

The sale featured only a few yearlings, with steers topping at 286c and heifers reaching up to 272c/kg. Grown steers, present in limited numbers, sold at a top price of 256c, and grown heifers sold for up to 240c/kg.

The cow market remained frm, with prices frming by up to 10c. Two-score cows sold for between 140c and 178c, three-score medium weights averaged 190c, and four-score cows ranged from 190c to 220c/kg

averaged 597.5kg - $1,165.13 p/hd

• Nattai Investments sold Brahman Cows 205.2c/kg averaged 560kg - $1,149.12 p/hd

• GW & JM Clark sold a Brahman Bull 220c/kg weighed 860kg - $1,892.00

• Orama Nominees sold Brangus Cross Steers 272.2c/kg averaged 345kg - $939.09 p/hd

• Hirst Farming Enterprises sold Santa Steers 310.2c/kg averaged 234.2kg – $726.39 p/hd

• M, M & S Golding sold Angus Heifers 230.2c/kg averaged 215.7kg – $496.57 p/hd NEXT SALE

DLP Special Store Cattle Sale - Thursday 4th July - 9am

TENTERFIELD TOP PRICES

$1558.00 NEXT SALE 8th July 2024, 9:00am Start.

• Ewes: Topped at $97, averaging $70.03 (up $10/head)

• Wethers: Topped at $126, averaging $87.96 (up $15/ head)

• Rams: Topped at $100, averaging $74.38 (up $11/ head)

• Lamb Rams: Topped at $117, averaging $105.95 (up $33/head)

• Ewe Lambs: Topped at $166, averaging $110.88 (down $45/head)

The total yarding averaged $112.49/head, refecting a $13/ head increase from the last sale.

INDIVIDUAL SALES:

• Sloss Family: Sold Aussie White lambs (48.75kg) to Eversons for $168, and ewes to Eversons for $94.

• Andrew Finlay: Sold Aussie White lambs (50kg) to Thomas Foods for $183, and (49.1kg) to GR Prime for $166.

• Andrew & Pauline Innes: Sold Aussie White lambs (48.75kg) to GR Prime for $167, (44kg) to Eversons for $141, (41.25kg) to GR Prime for $117, and 65kg ewes to Eversons for $97.

• Scaresbrook Family: Sold Xbred lambs (48kg) to GR Prime for $158.50, and (40.8kg) to GR Prime for $115.

• McLean Farms: Sold Aussie White lambs (42kg) to GR Prime for $126, (39.5kg) to GR Prime for $112, (37.2kg and 36.2kg) to GR Prime for $100, (34kg) to restockers for $93, (30kg) Ram lambs to GR Prime for $70, and Rams to McIntyre Meats for $62 and $50.

• Gradenfoe Past Co: Sold 1st cross Dorset lambs (55kg) to Take IT Easy Meats for $189.

• Greenup Maryland P/S: Sold Dorset lambs (60kg) to Thomas Foods for $200.

• Dayne & Michelle Barrett: Sold Dorper lambs (44kg) to MC Mahon Bros for $156.

• Bodumba Farming: Sold Dorper lambs (46kg) to GR Prime for $149, (40kg) to Jock Young Meats for $116, (70kg) hoggets to McIntyre Meats for $85, and ewes to McIntyre Meats for $85.

Migration Paper Prompts Renewed Calls for a Farm Visa

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed the Regional Migration Discussion Paper released today, viewing it as a vital step towards ensuring appropriate migration settings for farmers and regional Australia. The paper addresses various regional migration issues, with a particular focus on the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program.

Importance of Backpackers in Agriculture

NFF Acting CEO Charlie Thomas emphasized the critical role backpackers play in the agricultural workforce. In the latter half of last year alone, nearly 12,000 working holiday makers chose to work in agriculture.

“Backpackers are essential to our farm workforce. Without them, we’d see farmers walk away from farming,” Thomas stated.

A recent NFF survey found that many farmers would either change their crops or cease farming altogether if their access to overseas workers was restricted. Specifcally, 63% of farmers indicated that removing the 88-day work incentive would have a “catastrophic” impact on their business.

Thomas also highlighted that backpackers bring a diverse set of skills to the

agricultural sector while contributing signifcantly to regional economies.

“Research has shown that backpackers seek an authentic Australian experience, immersing themselves in local communities. This not only benefts agriculture but also generates billions for the tourism economy,” he said.

Ensuring Safe and Rewarding Work

The Discussion Paper underscores the need to guarantee safe and rewarding work conditions for backpackers during their mandatory 88 days.

The NFF reaffrmed its commitment to maintaining high standards in worker treatment.

“There is no place in our industry for those who mistreat their

workers,” Thomas said. “We are open to practical solutions that address these issues directly rather than simply cutting off access to essential workers.”

Call for a PurposeBuilt Agriculture Visa

The NFF reiterated its call for a dedicated agriculture visa, which it believes is the most effective solution for the industry’s unique needs.

New Recipients of Traceability Grants Announced

Eleven new projects have been awarded a total of $4 million in funding under Round 3 of the Australian Government’s Traceability Grants Program. This program supports collaborative projects aimed at enhancing traceability systems to bolster agricultural export supply chains.

Key Highlights:

• Continuation of Efforts: Tina Hutchison, Deputy Secretary for Agricultural Trade and Regulation, emphasized that this latest round of grants builds on the signifcant work achieved in the frst two rounds to improve the traceability of Australian agricultural commodities.

• Wide Range of Benefciaries: The grants beneft a diverse range of sectors, including First Nations producers of native foods, wine, honey, pork, beef, and sheep producers, seafood harvesters, timber exporters, and more.

“A purpose-built agriculture visa would be responsive to the industry’s specifc requirements, reduce administrative and fnancial burdens, protect workers from exploitation, and attract individuals genuinely interested in farm work,” Thomas explained.

“It ticks all the boxes. We strongly urge the government to revisit this idea as a comprehensive solution.”

Conclusion

The NFF sees the Regional Migration Discussion Paper as a starting point for a robust discussion on optimizing migration settings for the agricultural sector. By implementing a dedicated agriculture visa, the government can ensure the continued success and sustainability of Australia’s farming industry while safeguarding the welfare of its workers.

26th ANNUAL

• Enhancing Competitive Edge: These grants will help recipients maintain a competitive export advantage and expand into lucrative export markets.

“As with the frst two rounds of this program, we’re proud to assist more Australian farmers and producers in improving agricultural supply chain traceability systems, and accessing new opportunities,” said Ms. Hutchison.

Strategic Framework: Prior to the launch of Round 3, the Government released the National Agricultural Traceability Strategy 2023 to 2033, outlining eight objectives and 11 priority areas for action. The current round of the Traceability Grants Program focuses on:

• Demonstrating Value-Add: Enhancing and supporting trust and adoption of agricultural traceability by demonstrating value-add and return on investment.

• Improving Information Flows: Enhancing two-way, producer-consumer information fows to identify value-add creation and distribution opportunities and drive business development.

• Research and Development: Establishing a fexible and responsive agricultural traceability research and development agenda.

BULLS

Program Objectives: The Traceability Grants Program is part of the Modernising Agricultural Trade – Promoting Australia’s Clean, Green Brand initiative.

Building on the outcomes of earlier rounds, the activities funded under Round 3 are expected to be completed by June 30, 2026.

For more information on the grants awarded under this round, visit the department’s website.

Farm Census Vital for NSW Safety and Livestock Protection Call to Action for 170,000 Farmers

By Rob Heyward

New South Wales (NSW) farmers are being urged to participate in the 2024 Annual Land and Stock Return, a crucial initiative aimed at enhancing the state’s emergency response capabilities. This census will require approximately 170,000 farmers to report their livestock numbers and land use information.

Building a Statewide Agricultural Snapshot

Local Land Services

Acting CEO, Rob Kelly, emphasized the signifcance of this data collection effort. “The 2024 Annual Land and Stock Return will create a comprehensive statewide picture of agricultural land use and livestock across NSW,” Kelly stated.

“This information is invaluable for supporting land managers during disasters and biosecurity outbreaks, enabling the NSW Government to respond swiftly and accurately to priority incidents.”

Benefts for Farmers and the State

The data collected from the returns will serve multiple purposes:

• Disaster Response: Provides critical support to land managers during emergencies such as bushfres and biosecurity threats.

• Service Delivery: Informs the development of services tailored to the needs of NSW farmers.

• Environmental Protection: Helps protect the state’s ‘clean and green’ reputation and environment from pests and diseases.

• Animal Health

Monitoring: Assists in monitoring focks and herds for emergency animal diseases.

• Market Access: Ensures the continued openness of domestic and international markets.

Kelly also highlighted the necessity for all landholders, including those without livestock, to complete their returns to avoid unnecessary fees. “It is crucial that all land managers submit their forms, regardless of whether they have livestock,” he said. “Failure to complete the return will result in the automatic application of the Animal Health and Meat Industry Levy to the next rates notice.”

Streamlined Submission Process To facilitate

participation, the submission process for Annual Land and Stock Returns has been streamlined. Landholders can submit their returns online at www.lls.nsw. gov.au/aslr or via a paper form, which can be mailed or delivered to the nearest Local Land Services offce.

Key Dates and Participation

• Portal Opening: 30 June 2024

• Submission Deadline: 31 August 2024

For more information, visit www.lls.nsw.gov. au.

By participating in the 2024 Annual Land and Stock Return, farmers contribute to the safety and security of NSW’s agricultural sector, ensuring the well-being of their communities and livestock.

House Committee performs ‘hit and run’ on WA farmers

Australia’s peak farm body has savaged a report on the Government’s live sheep ban, released by the House of Representatives Agriculture Committee today.

Acting Chief Executive Charlie Thomas labelled the inquiry process a “hoax” designed to sideline the concerns of farmers.

“We’re talking about

cancelling an industry. Cancelling people’s jobs and livelihoods.

“This ban is already causing real pain and suffering, and it will lead to a lot more.

“To rubber stamp the suffering this ban will cause with just two public hearings and four business days for submissions is shocking. “13,000 submissions were received. Thousands of those

haven’t even been processed. Questions on notice have gone unanswered.

“This report is nothing but a political hit and run on the hardworking people whose livelihoods are at stake.”

The NFF is now urgently calling on the Government to make good on its commitment to a Senate Inquiry.

“We had a commitment from

Minister Watt in Senate Estimates that he would back a comprehensive Senate Inquiry to unpack the merits of this policy. It’s time to make good on that.

“This is clearly an incredibly complex and contested issue with a lot to unpack. We call on all Senators to urgently refer this to a Committee so that scrutiny can get underway.”

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

Relive your best musical memories with Toni Childs’ Greatest Hits Live in Concert.

Join the legendary Toni Childs for a special two-hour performance as she celebrates her life’s musical works. Toni will be performing hits and fan favourites from Union, House of Hope, the Woman’s Boat and Keep the Faith in the frst hour of her show then the second hour will be an introduction to Toni’s new music, from two very special albums It’s All a Beautiful Noise and Citizens of the Planet.

Emmy Winner and three-time Grammy nominated recording artist, Toni is a celebrated singer/

songwriter known for her powerful voice, inspiring independent spirit and crafted storytelling. With fans in over 50 countries around the world, Toni

has produced a list of international hits such as: Don’t Walk Away, Stop Your Fussin’, Walk and Talk Like Angels, Zimbabwe, Where’s the

Ocean, Many Rivers to Cross, I’ve Got to Go Now and Because You’re Beautiful, to name a few.

The coming years will see the wider release of

two very special albums of music. First, ‘It’s All A Beautiful Noise’ and the second ‘Citizens Of The Planet’. Both releases are a part of

two unique 3D Mapping animated shows – two hours of music, animation and high tech audience engagement. This will be a solo show played to visual and backing track.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday July

5 - 7:30pm-10:00pm

• Where: Jetty Theatre, Coffs Harbour

• Price: From $70

• Tickets: via the QR code

NUMBER CRUNCH

Place the digits 1 to 9 in the blue squares, so that all 6 equations are correct. Multiplication and/or division are performed rst, in whichever order they appear –followed by addition and/or subtraction, in whichever order they appear.

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 The Australian Diamonds defeated which team to win the 2023 Netball World Cup for the 12th time? (a) Germany (b) New Zealand (c) England (d) South Africa

2 Mousseline sauce is made by adding cream to which popular sauce? (a) Hollandaise (b) Dijon (c) Béarnaise (d) Paloise

3 What is the official language of Senegal? (a) French (b) Arabic (c) Spanish (d) English

4 In radiotelephone communications, which one of the following phrases is used to indicate there is a problem? (a) Pow-pow (b) Pan-pan (c) Fre-Fre (d) Mod-mod

5 Which King of England was also known as the Hammer of the Scots?

(a) Edward I (b) Henry VII (c) Edward VI (d) Henry II

6 AB ‘Banjo’ Paterson features on which Australian banknote? (a) Ten-dollar (b) Twenty-dollar (c) Five-dollar (d) Fifty-dollar

PUZZLES

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 DENIGRATE

(a) To give a name to (b) To deny (c) To blacken a reputation

2 IGNOMINY

(a) Want of knowledge

(b) Loss of good name

(c) The firing system of an internal combustion engine

3 LITERATE

(a) According to the letter (b) Engaged in a lawsuit

(c) Able to read and write

4 NUTRIENT

(a) Drooping (b) Nourishing

(c) That may be numbered

5 ULULATE

(a) To offend (b) To criticise beyond the sphere of one’s knowledge (c) To hoot or screech

FRIDAY

TROPPO

ABC, 8.25pm

Set six months after the rst season’s scintillating nale, this odd-couple outback detective drama returns with another gritty, compelling mystery to solve. Local star Nicole Chamoun (Safe Harbour) and US actor Thomas Jane (The Punisher) both return, as Amanda and Ted are thrust into a bizarre murder involving two bodies fused together by re. Hired to prove that Raphael (Ethan Lwin), the son of one of the victims, is innocent, the unconventional PIs soon clash with newly arrived Detective Sergeant Pip Sweeney (Zindzi Okenyo). With old enemies around the corner and an exotic drug ring taking over Crimson Lake, this promises to be a thrilling sophomore season for an Aussie gem.

FRIDAY, July 5

MONDAY

LITTLE J AND BIG CUZ

ABC FAMILY, 6.05pm

Returning with its fourth season, this homegrown animated series follows the sweet and funny adventures of First Nations kids Little J and Big Cuz. Voiced by beloved actors Miranda Tapsell (Love Child), Deborah Mailman (Total Control), along with Black Comedy’s Aaron Fa’aoso and Mystery Road: Origin’s Mark Coles Smith, this unique series revels in a sense of wonder and curious, with a generous dollop of cheeky shenanigans. Written by First Nations talent and proudly celebrating Indigenous culture, this new set of 10 episodes is available in two languages –Yalanji and Kalaw Kawaw Ya. Kicking o with a craters and meteorites tale, there’s a wonderful birthday party and a road trip coming up.

WEDNESDAY MOULIN ROUGE: YES WE CAN - CAN!

SBS, 7.30pm

It’s a Parisian institution known the world over for its feathered dancers, bedazzled

can-can spectaculars, but it might surprise many to know that the Moulin Rouge cabaret club is in fact run by a Yorkshirewoman. Tough-as-nails artistic director Janet Pharoah is at the centre of this lively documentary as she recruits a new group of dancers for the cabaret club’s company – looking to British dance schools for her next generation of stars. The only thing higher than the dancers’ kicks are Pharoah’s expectations. In tonight’s double-episode premiere, 22-year-old hopeful Erin auditions for the third time, while 32-year-old Toohey considers hanging up her shoes after 12 years on stage.

ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (6) TEN (5) NBN (8, 80)

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Walking Man. (PG, R) 10.30 That Paci c Sports Show. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (Final, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Final, Malv, R)

2.00 The Split. (Ma, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 3.55 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Paci c. (PG, R) 4.40 Grand Designs: The Streets. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.35 Love Your Garden. (Return) Presented by Alan Titchmarsh.

8.25 Troppo. (Return) Six months on, Ted and Amanda investigate a bizarre local murder and an exotic drug ring.

9.25 Gruen. (R) Wil Anderson and a panel of experts analyse the advertising industry and consumerism.

10.00 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

10.30 Austin. (PG, R)

11.00 ABC Late News.

11.15 Grand Designs: The Streets. (R)

12.05 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Paci c. (PG, R)

12.50 We Hunt Together. (Madlv, R)

1.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 6. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 11.00 Tour De France 2024 Highlights Review. (R) 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 6. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 A Short History Of Living Longer. (Ma, R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! (R) 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Tour De France 2024 Highlights Review. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Hailey Dean Mysteries: Deadly Estate. (2017, PGav, R) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PG) 3.00

6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Princes In The Tower: New Evidence. (R) Explores the fate of the Princes in the Tower.

9.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 7. Nuits-Saint-Georges to Gevrey-Chambertin. 25.3km individual time trial. From France. 2.00 Blackout: Tomorrow Is Too Late. (Malv, R)

3.50 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 7.20pm Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Strange Chores. 8.00 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Operation Ouch! 9.05 O cially Amazing. 9.35 Dragon Ball Super. 9.55 Supernatural Academy. 10.20 The PM’s Daughter. 10.45 Phoenix Rise. 11.45 Good Game Spawn Point. 12.25am Rage. 1.25 TMNT. 2.10 The Legend Of Korra. 2.35 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Dr Harry Cooper helps a Dalmatian. 8.30 MOVIE: The Other Woman. (2014, Mals, R) After discovering her boyfriend is married, a woman tries to get her ruined life back on track. However, when she accidentally meets the wife he has been cheating on, she realises they have much in common. Cameron Diaz, Leslie Mann, Kate Upton.

10.45 To Be Advised. 11.45 Autopsy USA: Roger Moore. (Ma, R) 12.45 Criminal Confessions. (Mav, R) 2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

(62)

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista. 12.40 Over The Black Dot. 1.30 WorldWatch. 2.00 Tour De France 2024 Highlights Review. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 4.00 WorldWatch. 5.25 Brooklyn Nine-Nine. 6.20 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Travel Man’s Greatest Trips. 9.25 Sex Before The Internet. 10.20 The Lesbian Guide To Straight Sex. 11.15 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Medical Emergency. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Harry’s Practice. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 House Of Wellness. 2.00 Industry Leaders. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 Australia’s Best Backyards. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Mighty Ships. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current A air. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 18. Brisbane Broncos v Penrith Panthers. From Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane. 9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Brisbane Broncos versus Penrith Panthers match, with NRL news and analysis. 10.40 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 5. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 5 Late. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England.

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) Matt, Sonny and Mark encounter a vengeful woman who blames them for the incarceration of her family.

9GO! (83) 6am Walk With Me. Continued. (2017, PG) 7.35 2001: A Space Odyssey. (1968) 10.15 In The Line Of Fire. (1993, M) 12.35pm 28 Days. (2000, M) 2.30 Minari. (2020, PG, Korean) 4.40 The Majestic. (2001, PG) 7.25 Entrapment. (1999, M) 9.30 All The Old Knives. (2022, MA15+) 11.25 The Invisible Fight. (2023, Estonian) 1.35am Joe. (2013, MA15+) 3.45 Next Door. (2021, M, German) 5.35 Spit re. (2018, PG)

6am Children’s Programs. Noon Ben Fogle: Starting Up Starting Over. 1.00 Young Sheldon. 1.30 Bewitched. 2.00 Full House. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Children’s Programs. 5.40 MOVIE: Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed. (2004, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Night At The Museum. (2006, PG) 9.45 MOVIE: Tomb Raider.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. Special guests include Steph Tisdell. 7.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Hosted by Tom Gleisner. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Guests include Julianne Moore, Ricky Gervais, Jamie Oliver, Paapa Essiedu and Olivia Dean. 9.30 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a look at the week that was.

10.30 10’s Late News.

10.55 The Project. (R) 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

PEACH (52)

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

E R L

E W H

E S

E

Today’s target: 5 words average 7 words good

10+ words excellent

Find words of four letters or more. Every word must include the centre letter and each letter is used once only. Find at least one nine-letter word. No colloquial or foreign words, capitalised nouns, apostrophes, hyphens. No verbs or plural words ending in ‘s’. Solution list is not exhaustive. Ref: Macquarie Dictionary

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Auspac Media

Have you been feeling like a tired and lacklustre Ram, with too many activities crammed into your timetable? Avoid work functions and social events this week. The Sun, New Moon and Venus are in your home zone, so rest and relaxation (at Casa Aries) are just what the doctor ordered. You could be asked to do some volunteer work or contribute to a humanitarian project. As birthday great Princess Diana said: “Everyone has the potential to give something back.”

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Bulls can too easily get bogged down in a boring old rut. This week the New Moon encourages fresh ideas, exciting connections and lively communication. And with Mars and Uranus still moving through your sign (plus a Mars/Saturn link) it’s also time to break a few rules and ruffle a few feathers – in a planned, responsible way. So your mantra is from birthday great Princess Diana: “I don’t go by the rule book … I lead from the heart, not the head.”

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

The New Moon shines a spotlight on your current bank balance as well as money mistakes you’ve made in the past. If your finances are in a mess, then it’s time to sort them out. Venus is also visiting your $$$ zone, which increases your extravagant and gullible side. Be careful you don’t indulge in a ‘comfort shopping’ spree that you later regret. Slow down and think things through. Remember … good things eventually come to Geminis who wait!

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Sensitive Crabs are ruled by the silvery, changeable Moon, so you can’t help but be affected by this week’s New Moon in Cancer, as it stirs up your emotions. Plus Mercury and Pluto agitate professional partnerships or financial insecurities. But becoming overemotional and unreasonable won’t help matters. Instead, tune into the magical promise of the new moonbeams as you learn to love yourself, celebrate your strengths and follow your dreams.

This week Pluto opposes Mercury (in your sign) so your bossy, demanding, Diva side could take over. If you sweat the small stuff, then you’ll end up feeling tired and emotional by the end of the week. It’s time to de-stress, as the New Moon lights up your spiritual/solitude zone and you meditate, contemplate, ruminate and relax. You might just enjoy it! Plus pay close attention to a developing situation, and the symbolic messages in your nightly dreams.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

With the New Moon activating your hopes-andwishes zone, it’s time to articulate (and write down) your goals and dreams for the future. Then you can put them into action. But don’t let a loved one or workmate manipulate you on Wednesday, as they try to persuade you to do something against your better judgment. Have the strength –and common sense – to stand your ground and say: no (with a firm smile). Friday and Saturday favour disciplined, productive work.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22) Polite Librans are the peacemakers of the zodiac. And you’ll certainly require your diplomacy skills this week. Pluto opposes Mercury, so a relationship with a child or friend could be particularly frustrating. The best way to handle the situation is with plenty of patience and understanding. The New Moon activates your career zone, so don’t be a Libran wallflower. Speak up and promote your talents! If you procrastinate, then a golden opportunity could pass you by.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

The Neptune and Saturn trines boost your Scorpio creativity and productivity. But Wednesday’s tempestuous Mercury/Pluto opposition highlights your inclination to jealous, possessive, bossy or overbearing behaviour – especially at home. So do your best to loosen your intense grip on a loved one, otherwise you’ll just drive them away with your dramatic pronouncements and demanding antics. The New Moon highlights travel and/or education plans.

Sagittarians can easily become preoccupied with the busy distractions of daily life, full of noisy notifications and garrulous gossip. This week the Sun, New Moon and Venus light up your intuitionand-secrets zone (in the perceptive sign of Cancer), so aim to spend some quality time on your own. Slow down, meditate, contemplate, and listen to the quiet voice within. Your motto is from birthday great Princess Diana: “I work on instinct. It’s my best advisor.”

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

This week (courtesy of the Mercury-Pluto opposition) an obstacle could be placed in your path. Or you could be drawn into a power struggle with a relative, friend or work colleague, especially involving money and/or trust. Don’t stress and obsess! Sometimes hurdles help you slow down and see the path ahead more clearly. And the Mars/Saturn link will help you adjust your compass and tweak your plans. A proactive, sensible approach brings benefits.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

The New Moon activates your work and wellbeing zones, so it’s a good week to start a job, launch a business, begin a new diet or embark on a rebooted exercise program. With Venus also in your daily routine zone, it’s time to harmonise, compromise and cooperate with the main people in your day-to-day life. Pluto (in your sign) opposes Mercury on Wednesday, so expect some intense thoughts and powerful conversations. When it comes to finances, be practical.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Tuesday’s Mercury/Neptune trine is fabulous for visionary thinking, creative pursuits and spiritual insights. With Neptune slowly meandering through your sign, you intuitively know what is right for you – even though you may appear confused to others. Don’t let your work colleagues (or peer group) push you around or persuade you to do something you don’t believe in. Saturn (in your sign) encourages you to be sensible and stay grounded.

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

What is Create For A Day?

SAE University College is opening its doors this July for a oneday program, designed to expand your skills and get you working on inspiring creative projects in the felds of Animation, Audio, Design, Film, Games or Electronic Music Production.

Don’t miss out on your chance to experience life as an SAE student and discover what it means to be a creative professional, in stateof-the-art facilities with industry experts by your side. During the workshop, attendees will learn valuable practical and collaborative skills to build a creative piece of work! They will also receive a certifcate of participation to acknowledge the creative project they have undertaken.

Due to the level of workshop content, this event is open to school students aged 15 years and above (Year 10 and over).

WORKSHOPS ON OFFER

See a sample of a new work-in-progress theatre piece from HOTA ArtKeeper artist in residence Lisa Smith. From searching for the right words for a eulogy, to the hazards of crying unexpectedly in the supermarket, Awake is a new theatre work that explores the

• Animation: Unleash the illusion and magic of movement! Learn the practical skills used in 2D animation & 3D modelling, and apply visual effects to bring your design to life.

• Audio: Step into our world-class studios and be introduced to the principles of studio sound production, including recording and music production

public rituals of farewell alongside the more private face of grieving.

Join local theatre maker Lisa Smith to see a sample of the work she’s been making with collaborator and multi-instrumentalist

Vicky Falconer (Once Darlinghurst Theatre, Fringe Wives Club, Co-

analogue and digital games concepts.

• Electronic Music Production: Experience life as a music producer as you are taken through the process of creating a track. Within the one-day workshop, you’ll learn sequencing, synthesis, mixing, and more! Our expert mentors will guide you through all the ins and outs of producing music using industrystandard software.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday, 6 July, 2024 | 10:00am –4:00pm

• Where: SAE, Byron Bay Campus

software, studio signal fow, microphone techniques, and other audio elements including post-production and mixing techniques. If the thought of a career in Audio is music to your ears, you’ll love our Audio workshop.

• Design: Embrace the exciting world of communicating with visuals! We’ll introduce you to the

Artistic Director Hayes Theatre Sydney) through her ArtKeeper residency at HOTA. You’ll also hear insights into their creative process and the plans the creative team have for Awake’s future.

We invite you to share in an evening of music, storytelling, sandwiches and perhaps a whiskey

design process, utilising Adobe Creative Cloud, layout and typography concepts, branding, and photo manipulation.

• Film: Lights, camera, action! Discover the principles of flm production, from screenwriting and storyboarding, camera operation to technical production on set, lighting, sound, editing, and post-production

or two. Awake is both a gathering and a joyful refection on the ways we say goodbye, facing the expected and the unexpected in grief, and what we’d say if we could do it all again.

Make a night of it by experiencing the exclusive frst reading of Loki Liddle’s new poetry

techniques.

• Games: Love games? Want to know more about the process of Games Development? Then this is the workshop for you! We’ll introduce you to the principles of Games Development, including games software, programming languages, games design principles and psychology, prototyping, covering

work beforehand at 6:30pm. Loki has created this collection of poetry and stories through his ArtKeeper residency at HOTA.

Presented by HOTA, Home of the Arts as part of HOTA’s ArtKeeper 2024 Public Program.

EVENT DETAILS:

• Please note: Spaces for this event are extremely limited. Attendees can only participate in one workshop. Workshops available may change.

• Cost: $25 per person (lunch included)

• Tickets: Via the QR code

• When: Thursday July 4 - 7:30pm - 8:30pm

• Where: HOTA, Surfers Paradise

• Price: Free

• Register: via the QR code

CSIRO Partners to Strengthen Regional Health

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, will collaborate with governments across the Pacifc and Southeast Asia to enhance their preparedness and response to disease outbreaks. This partnership aims to address the challenges posed by emerging and endemic infectious diseases in humans and animals within these regions.

With over 75 percent of emerging infectious diseases being zoonotic (transmitted from animals to humans), and a 300 percent increase in outbreaks over the past 30 years, such as COVID-19 and avian infuenza, the initiative is timely and critical.

CSIRO will work with nations including Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, the Philippines, and Fiji to bolster their capabilities in identifying, tracking, and responding to health emergencies.

Key Initiatives

Laboratory Capacity Building and Training:

CSIRO will support laboratory capacity building, biomedical manufacturing training, digital health expertise, and the establishment of health networks. This will help regional partners enhance their diagnostic and response capabilities.

Access to Expertise and Facilities:

CSIRO will offer access to its multidisciplinary

expertise across animal and human health, along with facilities such as the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP), the National Vaccine and Therapeutics Lab, and the Australian e-Health Research Centre.

ACDP Projects

1. Animal Health Laboratory Networks:

Strengthening animal health laboratory networks and leadership across Southeast Asia and the Pacifc, including cross-region lab placements and building lab leadership capability in Vietnam.

2. Avian Infuenza Diagnostics: Enhancing regional networks and building laboratory diagnostic and leadership capacity for avian infuenza in Indonesia and across Southeast Asia and the Pacifc.

3. Field Diagnostic Capacity:

Improving feld animal health diagnostic capacity and networks for Pacifc Island nations and territories.

4. Biorisk Management Training:

Providing biorisk management training for laboratory personnel and developing a network of biorisk leaders across Southeast Asia and the Pacifc.

5. Viral Emerging Infectious Disease Testing: Conducting viral emerging infectious disease testing at high-risk locations such as wildlife

markets in Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, and the Philippines.

Biomanufacturing Partnership

A biomanufacturing partnership will enhance Thailand and the Southeast Asia region’s capabilities to develop and manufacture vaccines, biopharmaceuticals, and small molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). This includes building capability and skills in Thailand for the development of complex products, starting with an anti-cancer drug and an anti-viral.

Digital Health Expertise

The Australian e-Health Research Centre will assist partners in the Philippines and Fiji in adopting international open health data and interoperability standards. These standards will enable safer, consistent, equitable, and effective health data exchange between nations, and the creation of real-time systems for disease tracking and surveillance.

Funding and Support

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) will provide $15 million in funding for the partnership, with CSIRO contributing an additional $9.2 million, plus access to its researchers, expertise, and facilities.

Statements

Dr. Doug Hilton,

CSIRO Chief Executive, emphasized the importance of the initiative:

“Building stronger, more resilient health systems in the Pacifc and Southeast Asia creates shared success, prosperity, stability, and trust in science. It protects human and animal health, ensures equitable and inclusive health outcomes, and strengthens regional economic security, productivity, trade, tourism, and development.”

Australian Government Initiative

The partnerships are part of the Australian Government’s fveyear $620 million Partnerships for a Healthy Region initiative, which supports partner nations in building resilient and equitable health systems.

Dr. Hilton concluded:

“We look forward to working with regional partners to help them build more resilient health systems, address their current and future challenges, and ensure they have the right tools and training to protect our region from the spread of disease.

CSIRO has clear scientifc strengths in health, biosecurity, and infectious disease, as well as decades of experience in health system strengthening in the Pacifc and Southeast Asia, which continue to improve lives around the world.”

All Hands on Deck as Mossman Harvest Gets Green Light

The race is on to kickstart Mossman’s cane crush, following the State Government’s commitment to contribute up to $6 million towards the transportation costs of moving the cane 100 kilometres south to MSF’s Mulgrave Mill.

Government Support

After months of intensive negotiations involving CANEGROWERS

Mossman, the Douglas Shire Council, Douglas Chamber of Commerce, MSF Sugar, and the Queensland Government, Premier Steven Miles announced that the government would cover nearly half of the transport costs.

“This is a good economic outcome for the industry, with growers looking to recoup some of the $15 million they have invested in preparing this crop,” said CANEGROWERS

CEO Dan Galligan.

“I’d like to thank the Premier, as well as Minister for State Development Grace Grace and Minister for Agriculture Mark Furner, for listening to grower concerns and taking action to ensure Mossman’s 2024 sugarcane crop can be cut and crushed.”

Economic Viability

Despite many Mossman growers considering commercial cane supply agreements with MSF, the project’s economic viability hinged on shared transport costs among the government, milling company, and growers.

“Growers will still need to pay up to $12 per tonne for transport costs, so the fnances are tight for some, but they are determined to turn this crop into an economic outcome,”

Galligan added. “This arrangement provides certainty around this year’s crop and some breathing room for growers to consider their next move.”

Relief for Growers CANEGROWERS

Mossman Chairman Matt Watson expressed relief at the government’s commitment. “For months we’ve been in limbo, unsure if our crops would be saved or left to rot,” he said. “MSF’s decision to receive and crush the cane was the frst critical step, and their diligence and persistence made it happen. Securing the funding for transport costs was the fnal hurdle, and now we can all start preparing for the crush.”

Watson acknowledged that signifcant work remains before harvesting can begin.

“We have plenty of planning to get harvesters ready and the mill is also making preparations. But now that the harvest is confrmed, it’s all hands on deck to make this happen.”

With the government’s support and the collaboration of all stakeholders, Mossman’s cane crush is set to proceed, ensuring that the investment and hard work of local growers result in a successful harvest season.

By Helen Trustum

The Swan Bay Ferry was downstream from Coraki, on the Richmond River. It was a short crossing. The ferry that operated there was a small timber hand winch ferry operated by Mr John Malone. This ferry had been in operation since the days of horse and buggy. The frst ferry to service the area was by winding a rope connected to the ramps. This went on for many years. These ferries are sunk on the Woodburn side of the river to prevent the bank from collapsing and being washed away. During the time when

Ted Lindsay operated the ferry, it broke away from the ropes and quickly made headway down the river. Fortunately, it grounded on a spit and was later towed back by steamboat. The same ferry sunk during a food and overturned with a load of cattle aboard while operating at Woodburn during the 1951 food.

Swan Bay was an important river port town, the hub of a thriving agricultural community, located on the cleared banks of the Richmond River. Essentially there was a link by ferry to the northern side of the river which gave access to the

North Arm Road.

A sugar mill was built at Swan Bay by Alex McPherson. John Flett, a qualifed engineer from Scotland was employed on the McPherson property to install the sugar crushing plant. John Flett was sent out to Australia as an employee of the Glasgow based Engineering Company of W. & W. McOnie. John Flett worked for over three years in the Mid-Richmond district installing and maintaining small sugar mills. In June 1883 John Flett acted as a sponsor to enable his younger brother Thomas Flett to emigrate to Australia with his family

in 1884.

Mr and Mrs Beausang were the Postmaster and Postmistress at the Swan Bay Post Offce for many years. They were well respected citizens of Swan Bay.

Richmond River Herald – 28/3/1902

Reported in Richmond River Herald on 28/3/1902 of a very narrow escape from drowning of the Reverend Mother and one of the Sisters of the Coraki Convent. They had been to the chapel at the Bay and were returning in a sulky with a lad named Pinkerton driving. When the horse stepped off the punt and onto the

approach, the punt went out into the stream and the horse and sulky went into the river. The horse was drowned. The Sisters jumped off falling into three feet of water. There were complaints that the approaches were considered too steep to be safe.

Richmond River Herald – 18/10/1907

It was reported that John O’Çonner, of Swan Bay wrote to the Council seeking twenty four pound compensation for the loss of a few head of cattle caused by the sinking of the Swan Bay Ferry on 22/9/1907. Ferryman was John Malone, Drover

F. Wilcox with his son Roy. According to these statements the sinking of the ferry was due to the cattle rushing to one end and causing the ferry to go down. Four head of cattle were drowned.

Richmond River Herald – 30/7/1909

Another incident on 30/7/1909 that the Council had to deal with was when the cable rope was snapped by Gollan Brothers cream boat. It was alleged by the ferrydriver, that he was midstream at the time when the rope broke. A new rope had to be supplied at a cost of upwards of eight pound. Gollan Brothers

Jim Savins, Ted Lindsay and Peggy Savins on Swan Bay Ferry with Norm Savins green chev ute View

By Helen Trustum

apparently blew the whistle, but the punt continued on it’s way and thereby caused the accident.

Richmond River Herald - 12/4/1938

Owing to a strong run in the river the Swan Bay Ferry broke loose from the moorings on 12/4/1938 and ended up a few hundred yards away being held by one end of the wire in Mr McKeough’s saccaline (sweet sorghum grass) paddock. Over 704 points of rain (7.04 inches or 179mm) had fallen in six days and the water was over the fences in Swan Bay and Bungawalbyn.

In the 1950’s a motor utility belonging to Mr Norm Savins got into diffculties. As it approached the Swan Bay ferry the front portion of

Norm’s Ute went into the river. The utility rolled over in deep water and disappeared from sight.

A tractor owned by Mr R.M. York was bought to pull the utility from the water, but both vehicles plunged into the river. The tractor was hauled from the river by timber jinker. Both drivers jumped clear. The third and last ferry was motorized.

In the fnal days, the ferry was operated by Alex McPherson and son Stewart. The offcial hours were 7am to 11am and 3pm to 6pm on weekdays, excluding public holidays. However, the McPherson Family lived nearby and were often called on to provide service outside those hours. It is estimated that about 15

vehicles per day regularly used the service, however a count in October 1978 showed 495 vehicles crossing in a month. This was during summer when fshermen were using the service to launch their boats. The ferry was once used to transport cattle to sales and during foods and later was important in transporting cane tractors and bins to and from the Sugar Mill.

During the late 1960’s early 1970’s a hut was built by Alec McPherson and Dave Felicietti on the northern side of the river near the ferry approach. This was used by the Ferry Drivers.

Of all the ferries on the Richmond River, Swan Bay along with Gundurimba were the only ones to miss out on the construction of a

bridge. Swan Bay had Woodburn bridge nearby and Gundurimba had Wyrallah Bridge.

MEMORIES:

Rhonda McPherson –The McPherson Family were one of the early settlers in Swan Bay. They settled in 1861. The Swan Bay Ferry played a major part in their lives. Don McPherson would take people in his sulky home from the dances at Bungawalbyn Hall in the early 1940’s. In later years he would shuffe people back and forwards across the river to the dances in an outboard boat.

Peggy O’Çonner - nee Savins, recalls those days when attending Lismore High School. Peggy, along with the Felicietti and McPherson children, would have to cross the

river to catch the school bus at Yorks. Ted Lindsay would row them across the river in the rowboat.

Paul (Doc) OÇonner – Doc recalls those school days when he rode his horse to St Joseph’s School in Coraki. Leaving Swan Bay and meeting up with Kelly Rowsell from Buckendoon, he would ride down Willow Tree Road to meet Bobby Boland from Delelevin, then on to the dip yard near the Coraki Ferry where the horses stayed for the day. Later years a horse paddock was made at the school. One day Kelly did not want to go to school, so hopped off his horse and rolled in the mud. He went back home with a big story, but his mother Ada cleaned him up and took him to school

where he was there before the other boys arrived. Their neighbour, Annie Morandini, helped Kelly with his reading. Ferry Drivers: J. Malone, S. Johnson, J. Samuels, Ted Lindsay, Alex and Stewart McPherson.

Ref: Northern Star, Richmond River Herald, Mid Richmond Historical Society at Coraki, “Looking back at Bungy” by Margaret Jennison and Betty Olivieri, Peggy O’Çonner from Swan Bay, Margaret McPherson from Yorklea and Terry Bolands book “Forfarshire Ploughman”.

Postmistress, Mrs Bausang with Phillip O’Conner - 1978

Swan Bay township with Post Offce building on left, Richmond River on right with Ferry cutting.

Swan Bay Ferry - 1980

Ferryman Ted Lindsay on Swan Bay Ferry

Cyclops Wand Detector Tested to Combat Hitchhiker Pests

Hitchhikers heading to Australia, beware – a new wave of detection technology is being trialled to keep free riders at bay.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has recently tested an innovative detector designed to identify biosecurity risk materials and hitchhiker pests. The Cyclops-2 prototype, developed by Christchurch-based Techmatics NZ, is an advanced wand-like camera-pole device currently being trialled in Melbourne. This trial aims to determine its suitability for broader

biosecurity operations.

Justine Saunders, Deputy Secretary of Biosecurity and Compliance at the Department, emphasized the pilot’s goal to make the work of biosecurity offcers both easier and safer.

“If successful, the wand could introduce a digital, effcient, and safe method for offcers to inspect hard-to-reach areas, such as the tops of shipping containers or underneath large machinery,” Saunders stated.

“Presently, inspections are labour-intensive and rely on non-digital

equipment. This technology could signifcantly enhance the safety and wellbeing of our dedicated biosecurity offcers on the frontlines.”

She added, “With their advanced digital capabilities, these wands could also bolster our risk detection abilities, providing better protection for Australia’s agriculture sector against hitchhiker pests. Utilizing off-the-shelf technology is a costeffective approach to strengthening Australia’s biosecurity.”

At the request of the Department, Techmatics

NZ has upgraded the Cyclops-2 inspection kit, adding a motorized function for camera tilting, removable batteries for extended use, and a support harness to stabilize the wand during inspections. This pilot project represents a collaborative effort between the government and industry to address biosecurity challenges more effectively. Such projects aim to deliver results aligned with the National Biosecurity Strategy, which seeks to develop a future-focused, effcient biosecurity system.

Historic Win for Farmers: Fiona Simson Elected WFO Vice President

By Rob Heyward

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is proud to announce that immediate past President Fiona Simson has been elected Vice President of the World Farmers’ Organisation (WFO).

Ms. Simson, nominated by the NFF, was elected at the WFO General Assembly in Rome. President David Jochinke, who attended the event with NFF CEO Tony Mahar, highlighted this achievement as a signifcant milestone for “Team Australia.”

It is believed that Ms. Simson is the frst Australian representative

to attain such a highlevel position within the WFO.

“This elevates the NFF’s voice at the table, ensuring Australian farmers will be heard in international conversations on global agricultural policy and how food and fbre are produced in Australia,” said Mr. Jochinke.

“Issues such as climate change, deforestation, animal welfare, and agricultural chemicals are infuencing policy agendas globally. These are critical concerns for Australian farmers, and it is essential that global policymakers and markets understand them in the Australian

context.

“The WFO’s growing infuence with powerful

bodies, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization, the World

Trade Organization, and the United Nations, underscores the necessity of Australian representation.

“That’s why we are here at the WFO, and having high-level representation through Fiona gives Australian farmers a powerful platform to infuence global agricultural policy.”

Ms. Simson has a robust history of involvement with the WFO, having previously served on its women and youth committees and, over the past year, as the Oceania representative on the WFO Board.

“Farmers are at the forefront of the big

issues facing the world, like climate change, food security, and sustainability,” Ms. Simson remarked.

“There are many competing voices on these issues, but it is critical that farmers present a united front and demonstrate to global policymakers that we can be part of the solution.”

Her election marks a historic moment for Australian agriculture, providing a signifcant opportunity to shape global agricultural policies that will beneft farmers both locally and internationally.

Fiona Simson - Photo by Future Food Systems

Relax, have a break and enjoy BRISBANE

Enjoy good times in the CBD

Located in the heart of the Brisbane City CBD just steps from the Queen Street Mall shopping precinct, casino and cultural centre, travellers enjoy well-appointed one-bedroom apartment accommodation with free private parking, exceptional dining and amenities that include a recreation deck with heated pool, sauna and gymnasium

Experience the allure of stunning city views and the convenience of free private parking at this remarkable residence. Retreat to comfort with a queen-sized bed and a fold-out couch, complemented by amenities like free WiFi and an HD TV. Refresh in the modern bathroom, and enjoy access to the pool, steam room, sauna, and gym. Take in the cityscape from your private balcony, and indulge your culinary desires in the full-service kitchen equipped with a microwave, co ee machine, electric kettle, oven, toaster, and dishwasher. Complete your stay with private laundry facilities, including a complimentary washer and dryer, ensuring a seamless experience from start to nish.

- Split A/C (heating + cooling) in living area and bedroom - WIFI

- Parking for 1 car

- Balcony with seating

- Amenity note: Communal outdoor pool, sauna, bbq area and gym

To make a booking, simply scan the QR Code and select your getaway dates.

The History of P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises, originally known as the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company, has a rich history that spans nearly two centuries. Founded in 1837 by Brodie McGhie Willcox, Arthur Anderson, and Captain Richard Bourne, P&O initially operated mail routes between England and the Iberian Peninsula. The company’s frst ship, the paddle steamer William Fawcett, marked the beginning of its long maritime tradition.

In the mid-19th century, P&O expanded its services to include passenger travel, catering to the growing demand for leisure voyages among the affuent. The company introduced regular passenger services to destinations such as India, Australia, and the Far East, signifcantly contributing to the development of international travel and tourism.

By the late 19th century, P&O had established itself as a leader in the luxury cruising industry. The company’s ships were known for their opulence, offering passengers unparalleled comfort and elegance on their journeys. P&O Cruises became synonymous with quality and sophistication, attracting a loyal clientele of travellers seeking unique and exotic experiences.

The 20th century saw P&O adapt to changing times, including the challenges posed by two world wars and the advent of air travel. Despite these obstacles, P&O continued to innovate, launching new ships and expanding its routes. In 1974, P&O Cruises was offcially established as a dedicated brand within the larger P&O Group, focusing exclusively on the cruise market.

In 2003, P&O Cruises became part of Carnival Corporation, the world’s largest cruise company. This acquisition enabled P&O to enhance its offerings and expand its reach further. Today, P&O Cruises operates a feet of modern ships, continuing its tradition of delivering exceptional cruise experiences with a touch of British heritage.

The Closure of P&O Cruises Australia to the Carnival Corporation

In a signifcant development within the cruising industry, P&O Cruises Australia, a trusted brand in the cruising industry for over 90 years, is set to close. This announcement has sent ripples through the travel and tourism sectors, marking the end of an era for the iconic brand.

The closure is part of a strategic realignment by Carnival Corporation, the parent company of P&O Cruises Australia, which will see the operations of P&O Cruises Australia folded into Carnival Cruise Line.

P&O Cruises Australia has been a signifcant player in the South Pacifc and Australian cruise markets. Its history stretches back to the early 20th century, and it has been instrumental in popularising cruising in the region. Over the decades, P&O has built a reputation for offering budget-friendly cruises, making sea travel accessible to a broader demographic. The brand has been cherished by many Australians, often serving as their introduction to cruising.

The transition will occur in stages, with the rebranding and redeployment of the P&O feet. The ships Pacifc Encounter and

Pacifc Adventure will be rebranded under the Carnival Cruise Line banner, while the Pacifc Explorer will be retired in February 2025.

Carnival Corporation plans to implement some technological upgrades and minor changes to these ships to align them more closely with Carnival’s standards. However, they intend to maintain much of the essence and experience that P&O Cruises Australia guests have come to love.

Several factors have contributed to this decision. The South Pacifc region presents unique challenges, including a smaller population base and higher regulatory and operational costs.

According to Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation, these factors have made it increasingly diffcult to sustain the P&O brand in its current form. The consolidation into Carnival Cruise Line, which already has a strong presence in Australia, is seen as a way to streamline operations and leverage economies of scale.

For those who have bookings on P&O Cruises beyond February 2025, Carnival Corporation has assured full refunds and assistance with

rebooking on other cruises. Guests can expect communications from the company detailing these changes and providing options for future travel. The transition aims to be as seamless as possible, ensuring that loyal P&O customers continue to enjoy memorable cruise experiences under the Carnival brand.

Despite the closure of P&O Cruises Australia, Carnival Corporation remains committed to the Australian market.

The company plans to operate a total of seven cruise lines with 19 ships calling on 78 destinations in the region. This extensive presence will help maintain the vitality of the cruising industry in Australia and the South Pacifc, offering a variety of options for cruisers.

The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from the industry and the public. While there is a sense of nostalgia and loss among those who have fond memories of P&O cruises, there is also optimism about the future. Industry experts like Ryan Thomas, CEO of Ignite Travel Group, acknowledge that the departure of P&O Cruises Australia will leave a gap, especially for budget-conscious travellers. However, they also express confdence

that Carnival Cruise Line will fll this void effectively, maintaining the accessibility and affordability that P&O was known for.

In the months leading up to the fnal sailings, Carnival Corporation plans to celebrate the rich legacy of P&O Cruises Australia. This will include special events and tributes to honour the brand’s contributions to the cruising industry and the countless memories it has created for passengers over the decades.

The closure of P&O Cruises Australia marks the end of a signifcant chapter in the history of cruising in the South Pacifc. As Carnival Corporation integrates P&O’s operations into its broader portfolio, the focus will be on ensuring continuity and enhancing the cruising experience for Australian travellers. While the iconic P&O brand will be missed, the future promises new opportunities and adventures under the Carnival banner. The cruising industry in Australia is set to evolve, building on the foundations laid by P&O Cruises Australia and continuing to offer unforgettable journeys across the seas.

CSIRO Empowers SMEs with Digital Technologies and AI Program

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, is launching a free 10-week online program to help small to medium enterprises (SMEs) enhance their research and development (R&D) capabilities using digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI).

The “Innovate to Grow: Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence” program connects businesses focused on digital and AI solutions with valuable knowledge, resources, and mentors. This initiative aims to advance their projects and ideas significantly.

Dr. Liming Zhu, CSIRO’s Data61 Research Director for Software and Computational Systems, emphasized the program’s timeliness. “Digital technologies

and AI continue to reshape industries and drive economic growth,” he said. “The rise of generative AI and large language models like ChatGPT are rapidly transforming the digital and cyber innovation landscape. Companies can tap into new growth

opportunities thanks to the increasing power of generative AI.”

Since its launch in 2020, Innovate to Grow has supported over 600 early-stage R&D companies, providing them with the essential knowledge and tools to develop

their ideas. Michelle Armistead, CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow Program Coordinator, urged Australian SMEs to apply, highlighting the access to expert facilitators and experienced researchers that successful applicants receive. “Australian

SMEs are crucial to the growth and resilience of our economy, particularly in emerging industries like digital tech and artificial intelligence,” she said.

“Past participants have found immense value in working through the self-paced deliverables

and connecting with our expert advisors, helping them to make informed decisions about advancing their R&D plans.”

The program is open to SMEs working in various subsectors of AI, including computer vision, machine learning, large language models like ChatGPT, natural language processing, digital manufacturing, quantum computing, cybersecurity, robotics, autonomous systems, and more.

Applications close on July 21, 2024. To learn more and apply for the “Innovate to Grow: Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence” program, or to discover more programs for SMEs, visit the CSIRO website.

REGENERATIVE ENTERPRISE GETS A BOOST

An exciting program supporting regenerative agriculture enterprises was launched at Norco Primex recently with over 140 business leaders attending the luncheon event to get behind the initiative aiming to improve the regenerative agriculture production capacity and capabilities of the region.

The Sourdough Regenerative Connection Program is funded by the NSW Government’s Accelerating Regional Innovation Fund (ARIF) Grant managed by the Byron Community College who have partnered with Business NSW to deliver the program alongside a range of collaborators

including Southern Cross University and Local Councils who are enthusiastically supporting industry development.

Our passion for maximising the potential of businesses in the region is a great fit for this program and the Northern Rivers has been enabling regenerative agriculture practice and enterprise for some time, so this is a great opportunity to boost that activity.” Says Jane Laverty, Regional Director Business NSW Northern Rivers.

The Program will comprise of town hall events across the region, an 8 week accelerator program (in August and

October) and enterprise mentoring through the highly regarded Sourdough Business Pathways Mentors.

“The exciting opportunity for farmers, entrepreneurs and small business owners in Agrifood, Agtech or Agriwaste who are in start-up or scale-up mode is the 8-week

fully funded accelerator program with our Expert in Residence, Saadi Allan.

“Saadi is a well-known entrepreneur in the region, with Subpod, the innovative composting gardening brand he co-founded and led achieving international success. It is a real boon for us to have Saadi

leading the accelerator program and wonderful for us to be advancing industry development opportunities here.” Jane said.

Applications are now open for participants in the Accelerator program being delivered over the 8 weeks culminating in a pitch night with local leaders.

An Investor Package is also up for grabs for the pitch night winner, including $2,500 towards enterprise development and a Mentor Advisory Masterclass. A great boost for any business right now and wonderful exposure for the business, product or service.

“I am looking

forward to working with people passionate about growing their enterprise in this sector and being a regenerative business demonstrating best practice. The 8 weeks will be full of great learning and sharing opportunities with exciting guest presenters and practical strategies that can make a difference from day one.” Says Saadi Allan, Expert in Residence for Sourdough Regeneration Connection Accelerator Program.

For more information or apply to be a participant go to regeneration connection.com.au

Saad Allan_Expert in Residence Sourdough Regeneration Connection Program

Regeneration Connection Launch at Primex

Regeneration Connection Panel Discussion at Primex

Australia’s Housing Market Reaches Record High, Locking Out

The total value of Australia’s residential housing market has soared to an unprecedented $10.7 trillion, making it increasingly diffcult for aspiring frst-home buyers to keep pace with rising property prices.

Key Data Highlights: New data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) on Tuesday revealed that the combined value of Australia’s 11,176,100 residential dwellings increased by $209.4 billion in the frst three months of the year, bringing the total to $10.72 trillion. This surge occurred despite elevated interest rates and a cost-of-living crisis. Remarkably, this total exceeds the combined value of Australia’s superannuation, listed share market, and commercial property markets.

• Average Price Increase: The average

price of residential dwellings rose by $14,300 to $959,300 in the March quarter, with increases seen across all states and territories.

Market Dynamics:

• Boosted Confdence: The rising property market has boosted confdence among both buyers and sellers.

PropTrack data indicates that auction clearance rates remain robust despite a signifcant increase in the number of homes hitting the market this year.

• Supply and Demand:

PropTrack senior economist Eleanor Creagh noted that strong buyer demand is absorbing the increase in new home listings, further fuelling price growth. She explained, “A housing supply shortfall matched by strong demand is outweighing the impacts of higher borrowing costs and stretched affordability.”

Borrowing and

First-Home Buyers

Market Activity:

• Interest Rates and Borrowing Capacity: Although borrowing capacity has decreased due to higher interest rates—which have risen 13 times since May 2022—expectations for continued price growth are spurring market activity. “Ongoing home price rises are likely incentivizing many to overcome affordability challenges and transact with the expectation of continued growth,” Ms. Creagh said.

• Resilient Prices: Despite the higher interest rate environment, home prices have remained resilient. However, the pace of price growth has slowed since the stronger surge seen during the summer selling season earlier this year.

Regional Performance:

• Record High Values: According to PropTrack, home values nationwide reached a record high

in May, with prices up 6.7% over the past year and as much as 20% in some hotspots. Perth, the best-performing capital city, saw dwelling values soar by 20.6% over the past 12 months, while Brisbane is now the equalsecond priciest capital city. Several regional cities, particularly in Western Australia and Queensland, have also experienced double-digit price growth.

Market Sentiment and Future Trends:

• FOMO Returning: As property prices continue to rise, homeowners who had delayed their purchasing plans appear to be re-entering the market. A recent survey from Mortgage Choice indicates a busy end to the year, with 57% of prospective buyers delaying their decision to buy until 2024. Mortgage Choice CEO Anthony Waldron reported a sense of ‘cautious optimism’

among customers motivated to act on their property plans. “Paired with the continuing momentum we’re seeing for new purchase loans, we anticipate stronger demand in the months ahead,” Mr. Waldron said.

Lending Trends:

• Increase in Home Lending: ABS data released last week showed a sharp increase in home lending, with the value of owneroccupier home loans up 19% compared to a year ago, and investor lending surging 36% year-onyear. While the number of frst-home buyer loans remains well below the pandemic peak, they have been trending higher this year as more people look to escape the tight rental market.

Strategies for FirstHome Buyers:

• Adjusting Expectations: Sydney buyer’s agent Michelle May emphasized that while worsening

affordability is a barrier, it doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker for frsthome buyers. She advises buyers to adjust their expectations and focus on getting their foot in the door, building equity, and moving away from the rental market. “The goal is to simply get their foot in the door, build equity, and free themselves from the rental market,” Ms. May said. “To do so, frst-home buyers need to acquaint themselves with a new set of facts: the dream of a freestanding block with a quarter-acre yard is long gone, and trendy urban areas are also likely out of reach.”

As Australia’s housing market continues to reach new heights, prospective buyers must stay informed and adaptable to navigate the challenging landscape effectively.

Mortgage Stress Declines in May with Further Reduction Expected Post Tax Cuts

New Roy Morgan Research Highlights

Mortgage Stress Trends

Recent research by Roy Morgan reveals a signifcant decrease in mortgage stress among Australian homeowners. As of the three months leading to May 2024, 1,514,000 mortgage holders, representing 29.7%, are classifed as ‘At Risk’ of mortgage stress. This fgure marks a decline of 46,000

individuals (-1.1%) from the previous month and is the lowest level recorded this year.

Stable Interest Rates and Increased Household Incomes

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) maintained steady interest rates during their June meeting and will not convene to discuss interest rates in July. The proportion of mortgage holders ‘At Risk’ in May

is the lowest since July 2023, when it was 29.2%, and the frst instance this year that it has fallen below 30%. The reduction in mortgage stress is largely attributed to rising household incomes, which have alleviated fnancial pressures for some homeowners.

The record high for mortgage stress was 35.6%, reached in mid2008.

Impact of Interest Rate Increases

Since May 2022, when the RBA initiated a series of interest rate hikes, the number of Australians ‘At Risk’ has increased by 707,000. The offcial interest rate now stands at 4.35%, the highest since December 2011.

Additionally, 976,000 mortgage holders (19.9%) are considered ‘Extremely At Risk,’ signifcantly above the long-term average of 14.4% over the past decade.

Future Projections: Tax Cuts and Potential

Interest Rate Hike

Roy Morgan’s projections indicate a further decrease in mortgage stress due to upcoming Stage 3 income tax cuts, despite a potential interest rate increase of 0.25% in August 2024. These tax cuts, starting in early July, are expected to boost take-home incomes for many Australians.

In May, 29.7% of mortgage holders were ‘At Risk,’ a fgure anticipated to remain unchanged in June. However, with the tax cuts, the number of ‘At Risk’ mortgage holders is forecasted to drop by 32,000 in July, down to 1,482,000 (29.1%). By August, this number is expected to slightly decrease further to 1,480,000 (29.0%).

Understanding ‘At Risk’ and ‘Extremely At Risk’ Roy Morgan defnes ‘At Risk’ mortgage holders as those whose mortgage repayments exceed a certain percentage of

their household income, depending on income and spending levels. ‘Extremely At Risk’ refers to those for whom even the interest-only payments surpass a critical proportion of household income.

Unemployment: A Key Factor

Unemployment remains the most signifcant factor infuencing mortgage stress. Roy Morgan’s latest unemployment estimates for May show 2,703,000 Australians (17.2% of the workforce) are either unemployed or underemployed. Despite recent infation increases, the greatest determinant of a household’s ability to manage mortgage payments is employment stability.

CEO Commentary

Michele Levine, CEO of Roy Morgan, notes the slight easing of mortgage stress in May, with 1.51 million mortgage holders now ‘At Risk,’ a reduction of 46,000. She highlights the positive impact of

rising household incomes and the Stage 3 income tax cuts on reducing mortgage stress.

Levine emphasizes that while interest rates are a factor, the critical variable affecting mortgage stress is household income, directly linked to employment. The robust job market over the past year has supported rising household incomes, moderating the increase in mortgage stress since mid-2023.

Conclusion

The fndings from Roy Morgan’s Single Source Survey, based on interviews with over 60,000 Australians annually, including more than 10,000 owneroccupied mortgage holders, underscore the importance of income stability and employment in managing mortgage stress. With the upcoming tax cuts, mortgage stress is expected to decline further, providing relief to many Australian households.

Millions of Australians Unknowingly at Increased Risk of Heart Failure

Over four million Australians are unaware of health conditions that can signifcantly increase their risk of heart failure, according to new research.

Despite heart failure affecting around half a million Australians and over 67,000 new diagnoses each year, awareness remains alarmingly low. Notably, less than half of the population understands the link between heart failure and common conditions such as type 2 diabetes and kidney disease, which affect 1.2 million and approximately two million Australians, respectively. Moreover, many Australians overlook crucial warning signs of heart failure, including iron defciency, erectile dysfunction, poor diet, and infections.

A recent survey by YouGov, commissioned by the charity

Hearts4heart, reveals that more than four million Australians are not aware of the comorbidities that can increase the risk of heart failure. This lack of awareness is concerning, especially given the ageing population and the growing prevalence of heart failure.

Tanya Hall, CEO of Hearts4heart, highlighted the critical need for greater awareness.

“The latest research around awareness of comorbidities among Australian adults is very concerning,” she said. “It is particularly troubling that only one in three Australians (32%) are aware that kidney disease can increase their risk of heart failure. This condition is a major mortality risk indicator in heart failure and can impact 44% of Australians over the age of 75.”

Hall also pointed out the low awareness of the link between

heart failure and type 2 diabetes, despite the latter being a high priority on the national health agenda. “Heart failure is the number one cause of hospitalisations for those over the age of 65 and is estimated to cost the Australian health system $3.1 billion each year. Lack of awareness of the health conditions that can increase the risk of heart failure is taking a toll on Australia’s health at both personal and national levels,” she commented.

Professor Andrew Sindone, Director of the Heart Failure Unit and Department of Cardiac Rehabilitation at Concord Hospital, stressed the importance of managing comorbidities to improve health outcomes.

“Despite the name, heart failure doesn’t mean the heart has stopped or failed; it means that the heart is ‘failing’ to keep up with the body’s demands. Effective management of comorbidities is

crucial to ensure the best outcomes and a better quality of life.”

He urged individuals to speak to their GPs to understand their risks and treat any underlying medical conditions.

“Early discussions with your GP can support early detection and intervention of heart failure, reducing the risk of life-threatening complications, including heart attack and stroke,” he stated.

Heart failure can manifest in various ways, often with no symptoms in its early stages.

Symptoms can appear suddenly and be severe (acute heart failure) or develop gradually (chronic heart failure).

These symptoms include breathlessness, sudden weight gain, tiredness, dizziness, swelling in the lower body, trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, dry cough, and irregular heartbeat.

Heart Failure

Awareness Week, an initiative by Hearts4heart, aims to raise awareness about heart failure in Australia, increase understanding of its symptoms, and highlight the importance of early detection to improve patient outcomes.

In May 2023, the Heart Health Check program, subsidized by Medicare, was extended for another two years. This program allows people aged 45 and over, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 30 and over, to assess their risk of heart disease during a 20-minute consultation with a medical practitioner. For more information and resources, visit Hearts4heart. If you are concerned about yourself, a friend, or a loved one who may be showing symptoms of heart failure, seek medical advice promptly.

Are You Prepared for a ‘Rainy Day’?

Setting aside money for unforeseen circumstances is a prudent fnancial habit that can ensure peace of mind and security during retirement. As we age, the importance of fnancial stability becomes increasingly apparent.

While managing weekly expenses can be challenging, building an emergency fund is crucial for maintaining your fnancial health. Here are some key reasons to have a fnancial reserve:

Health-Related Expenses

While Medicare and private health insurance cover many costs, unexpected out-of-pocket expenses can still arise. Having a fnancial cushion can alleviate the stress associated with these unexpected medical bills.

Home and Living Adjustments

As mobility issues become more prevalent with age, the need for more accessible housing, assisted living facilities, or modifcations to your

current home can become necessary—and costly.

Family Support

Providing fnancial assistance to family members, such as helping a grandchild with education expenses or supporting children facing unemployment or health issues, can be an important aspect of your fnancial planning.

Infation and Rising Living Costs

Infation can erode purchasing power over time, making it more expensive to cover daily living costs. Unexpected increases in prices for essentials like food, utilities, and transport can strain a fxed income.

Bereavement Costs

The death of a spouse or close family member can bring unexpected expenses, such as funeral costs, travel for family gatherings, and legal fees associated with estate settlements.

Natural Disasters Bushfres, foods, and cyclones can cause signifcant property damage and disrupt your

life. Emergency savings can help cover insurance gaps and provide for immediate needs in the aftermath of such events.

Building an Emergency Fund

Here are some practical steps to help you build a “rainy day” fund:

Review Your Financial Status

Start by calculating your monthly expenses and identifying areas where you can cut back or save more effciently.

Understanding your fnancial baseline is the frst step in creating a robust emergency fund.

Determine Your Savings Goal

Assess your specifc circumstances and potential risks to determine how much you need to save. Keep in mind that your needs will change as you get older.

Automate Your Savings

Set up a direct debit from your pension or other income sources into a high-interest savings account. This ensures you consistently save without having to think about it.

Maximize Benefts

Ensure you are receiving all the benefts to which you are entitled, such as the Age Pension, health care concessions, and other government support. These benefts can free up additional funds that can be directed towards your emergency savings.

Regularly Review Your Strategy

Life circumstances and fnancial markets change, so it’s important to review your savings strategy regularly. Adjust your contributions as necessary to ensure your emergency fund remains adequate.

By building an emergency fund, you can safeguard your future fnancial independence, support your family, and maintain your quality of life in the face of unexpected events. A well-prepared fnancial cushion not only provides peace of mind but also ensures that you are ready to handle life’s surprises with confdence.

Community-led Innovation to Revolutionize Healthcare Access in Rural Australia

The National Rural Health Alliance (the Alliance) is delighted to announce that the Minister for Health and Aged Care, the Hon Mark Butler, has allocated $16 million for innovative healthcare delivery trials through 11 projects in rural and remote Australia. Among these projects is a groundbreaking initiative to transform healthcare delivery in rural Australia, specifcally in Mareeba, far north Queensland, with a population of approximately 12,000 people, in collaboration with Mareeba Community’s Family Healthcare (MCFHC). Mareeba contributes signifcantly to Australia’s economy through its production of mangoes, sugar cane, avocados, bananas, lychees, vegetables, pineapples, cashews, cotton, tea tree oil, coffee, beef cattle, and chicken meat.

PRIM-HS Model

The Alliance’s Chief Executive, Susi Tegen,

expressed pleasure that the Minister recognizes the potential of the Primary care Rural Integrated Multidisciplinary Health Service (PRIM-HS) model. This model, proposed by the Alliance and developed with community input, aims to provide healthcare solutions tailored to rural communities, where urban-based models often fail.

The PRIM-HS model will be trialed at MCFHC with a $1.57 million grant. This

initiative is driven by community volunteers dedicated to ensuring their community has access to health services equivalent to those available to urban Australians. By collaborating with health clinicians, local government, industry, community, and health stakeholders, they believe they can develop effective local solutions.

Benefts and Goals

Ms. Tegen highlighted the opportunity for the Mareeba community to address unique

local health challenges sustainably. The trial will focus on workforce issues, healthcare access, and setting collaborative priorities. The grant also aligns with the National Health Reform Agreement review process, offering a pathway for delivering primary healthcare in rural areas.

The PRIM-HS model emphasizes community-led and co-designed healthcare delivery. The Alliance has long advocated for community-

based, not-for-proft organizations to provide multidisciplinary primary health care tailored to specifc community needs.

Commitment and Future Plans

The Alliance is committed to mentoring and supporting the trial program at a local level, working with MCFHC on the implementation and evaluation of PRIM-HS, facilitating governance, and sharing learnings with other primary healthcare entities across Australia.

With evidence of a $6.55 billion annual underspend in rural health, the Alliance is optimistic about the potential improvements in rural health and wellbeing.

As the trial progresses, the Alliance looks forward to sharing insights and adapting the model for other rural, regional, and remote communities to address ongoing healthcare access and health outcome challenges. About the Alliance

The National Rural Health Alliance comprises 53 national organizations dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of over 7 million people in rural and remote Australia. Its diverse membership includes representatives from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, health professional organizations, health service providers, educators, and students.

Be Careful Letting a Flutter Could Break Your Bank

By Jeff Gibbs

Many of us enjoy a small bet or a lottery ticket. Just be mindful not to spend more than you can afford and remember that the odds are against you.

Gambling is a popular pastime among Australians, adding a bit of excitement to our lives with the potential for winning a prize or sum of money. For many seniors, a futter on the pokies or a punt on the horses or footy is an occasional and enjoyable social activity. However, gambling should always be approached with caution. Excessive spending on gambling can lead to serious fnancial and emotional problems. The fact is that gambling can be addictive. Some people get hooked on the rush of adrenaline and the allure of hitting the jackpot. The bells, whistles, and fashing lights of the pokies, the thrill of a race, or the anticipation of a lottery draw can be overwhelming. It’s crucial to recognize when a harmless futter turns into problem gambling. Here are some

signs that gambling may be becoming an issue:

• Spending more than you can comfortably afford to lose: Setting a budget is crucial.

• Chasing losses: Never “throw good money after bad,” as you risk getting caught in a dangerous cycle that can quickly escalate.

• Neglecting other responsibilities: If gambling starts to take precedence over important aspects of your life, such as bills, social activities, or family time, it may be a sign of a problem.

• Borrowing money: Don’t use credit cards, loans, or money borrowed from friends and family to gamble. The consequences of gambling excessively can be particularly severe for seniors. Many retirees live

on a fxed income, and losing signifcant amounts of money can jeopardize fnancial stability. Moreover, the emotional toll of gambling losses can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression.

How You Can Play It Safe

Here are some tips to help you enjoy gambling without risking your fnancial health:

• Set a budget: Decide how much money you can afford to lose each week or month and stick to it.

• Time limits: It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re having fun, but sticking to a schedule can prevent you from spending too much time (and money) on gambling.

• Avoid chasing losses: Accept that losses are a part of gambling. Trying to win back lost money

can lead to even bigger losses. Know when to walk away.

• Use cash, not credit: This helps you keep better track of your spending.

• Stay informed: Understand the odds and how games work. The odds are always against you, and you might be shocked at how little your chances are of winning a substantial prize.

• Seek help if needed: If you feel that gambling

is starting to take over your life, don’t hesitate to seek help.

This article is for general information and advice only. Gambling can be addictive, so please play responsibly.

Resources for Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, these resources are available:

• Gambling Help

Online: A free, confdential online service

offering support and counselling.

• Gamblers Anonymous: Can direct you to help in your area.

• Lifeline: Provides crisis support 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 13 11 14.

Remember, the excitement of gambling should never come at the cost of your fnancial and emotional well-being. Play responsibly and stay informed.

2024 MG Cyberster: Pricing Confrmed and Order Books Open

By Jeff Gibbs

MG has offcially opened the order books for its highly anticipated Cyberster in Australia, confrming that the new electric roadster will be priced between $100,000 and $150,000. The Cyberster, which marks MG’s return to the sports car segment, is expected

Information Brad Chruszcz, MG

Australia’s national sales manager, commented on the launch: “Dealers are taking orders as we speak, with the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) range falling between $100,000 and $150,000. Exact MSRP fgures will be fnalized closer

features a striking design, even with the badges covered for testing purposes.

Design and Technology

The Cyberster’s design includes a new front fascia with a larger grille, a fghter jetinspired bumper, and updated LED headlights. The rear features new tail-lights with a

and is expected to be MG’s most expensive car to date. The roadster measures 4535mm in length, 1913mm in width, and 1329mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2690mm, making it larger than a BMW Z4 and signifcantly bigger than a Mazda MX-5. Despite its size, the Cyberster

seen in Tesla and Lexus models.

Global and Australian

to hit Australian shores later this year.

Model and Performance Australia will exclusively receive the fagship 77kWh AWD version of the Cyberster. This top-tier model boasts dual electric motors producing 400kW and 725Nm, enabling the car to accelerate from 0-100km/h in a mere 3.2 seconds. This version will feature the largest battery pack and the highest performance specifcations among the available variants globally.

Dealer and Availability

to the launch date.” He also mentioned that the limited number of units coming to Australia will likely create a supply and demand situation given the existing interest from both the public and MG’s 90+ dealers.

First Impressions

The frst examples of the MG Cyberster have already arrived in Australia for engineering evaluation. Spotted in Sydney, this right-hand drive model is equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels and staggered Pirelli P Zero tires, hinting at the fagship version’s arrival. It

distinctive signature and a black connecting strip. Interior upgrades include 8- or 9-inch central touchscreens with wireless Android Auto, revised graphics, an easier-to-use interface, and a 360-degree camera system. Additional features include USB-C charging ports, a 7-inch semi-digital instrument cluster, and traffc jam assist for hands-free driving in low-speed conditions.

Specifcations and Dimensions

The Cyberster is built on MG’s new Modular Scalable Platform (MSP)

maintains classic sports car proportions with a long, low bonnet and a rearward driving position. Futuristic touches include LED headlights, angular LED tail-lights, and scissor doors.

Interior and Features Inside, the Cyberster is equipped with three digital screens for the driver’s display, infotainment, and HVAC controls. The model displayed featured a conventional round steering wheel, though a yoke-style steering wheel may also be available, inspired by concepts

Launch

The Cyberster is set for a summer 2024 launch in the UK and Europe, with the Australian release following soon after. While exact Australian launch dates are unconfrmed, the announcement reassures that it will be within 2024.

Pricing and Market

Positioning

Expected to rival the likes of the BMW Z4 and Porsche Boxster, the Cyberster’s price range of $100,000 to $150,000 positions it as a premium sports car offering. Despite

earlier speculation that it could compete with the Mazda MX-5, its size, and powertrain suggest a higher price point and more competitive features.

The 2024 MG Cyberster is set to be a landmark release for MG, combining cutting-edge electric performance with a nod to the brand’s storied sports car heritage. For more information and to place an order, prospective buyers are encouraged to contact their local MG dealer. For additional details, visit MG Motor’s offcial website or follow the latest updates from MG Australia.

ACT Introduces Emissions-Based Vehicle Registration System

By Jeff Gibbs

Starting July 1, 2024, Canberra car owners will see changes to vehicle registration fees, with a shift from a weight-based to an emissions-focused system. The new system aims to make registration cheaper for many, but higher-emitting vehicles will face increased costs.

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government states that 96% of private passenger vehicles will pay the

same or less under the new scheme, which is based on the Federal Government’s Green Vehicle Guide. Vehicles will be categorized from AAA (0g/km CO2) to D (221g/km CO2).

Chief Minister and Minister for Climate Action, Andrew Barr, highlighted that the changes are designed to reduce cost-ofliving pressures while promoting loweremission vehicles. The government projects

a savings of $6.6 million for motorists over four years through adjustments in registration, stamp duty, and concessions.

With private vehicle use accounting for approximately 70% of transport emissions in the ACT, the Territory aims for a zero-emissions feet by 2035 and net-zero emissions by 2045.

The current discount on registration fees for zero- and low-emission vehicles will end on

June 30, 2024, but those registered before this date will still be eligible for a two-year discount if processed manually at an Access Canberra Service Centre.

The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries supports the new system but urges that costs should not disproportionately impact motorists and calls for a unifed national road-user charge to ensure fairness and clarity across Australia.

By Jeff Gibbs

Isuzu has unveiled a mid-life facelift for its MU-X off-road SUV in Thailand, showcasing a refreshed exterior and upgraded technology ahead of its anticipated Australian launch in the coming months.

Exterior Upgrades

The facelifted MU-X, which competes with the Toyota LandCruiser Prado, Ford Everest, and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, mirrors the recent updates applied to the D-Max ute. The SUV now features a revised front end with a larger grille, a new fghter jet-inspired bumper designed to improve aerodynamics, and updated LED headlights.

The rear has also been enhanced with new tail-lights featuring a distinctive internal signature, a black connecting strip, and newly designed 18- or 20-inch alloy wheels.

New RS Variant

In Thailand, Isuzu is introducing a new topof-the-range RS variant. This model boasts a

2025

By Jeff Gibbs

2025 Isuzu MU-X Facelift Unveiled

blacked-out exterior with a gloss-black roof, green stitching on the seats, and red ambient lighting strips, providing a more premium and sporty aesthetic.

Audi

RS Q8

Audi has unveiled its facelifted 2025 RS Q8, featuring a refreshed design and a new fagship Performance variant that boasts more power than the departed R8 V10 supercar. This hottest SUV from Audi is set to hit European showrooms later this year, with Australian arrival dates yet to be announced.

Key Highlights

• Variants: The RS Q8 is now offered in two variants – the standard model and a new Performance trim.

• Engine: Both variants are powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V8. The standard model delivers 441kW and 800Nm, while the Performance version increases outputs to 471kW and 850Nm.

• Performance:

o Standard RS Q8: 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds, top speed of 250305km/h.

o RS Q8 Performance: 0-100km/h in 3.6 seconds, making it the most powerful petrol production vehicle sold

Interior Enhancements

Inside, the MU-X is equipped with new 8- or 9-inch central touchscreens featuring an updated infotainment system. This system

Facelift:

supports wireless Android Auto connectivity, offering revised graphics, an improved user interface, and a new 360-degree camera system with an underfoor view. Additional interior updates include USB-C charging ports, physical volume and tuning controls, capacitive

shortcut buttons for media controls, an available 7-inch semi-digital instrument cluster, updated front seat patterns, and traffc jam assist for hands-free driving in low-speed traffc.

Future Australian Launch

While Isuzu has not yet confrmed the specifc

details or timing for the Australian market, the pattern observed with the recent D-Max ute facelift suggests the updated MU-X will likely arrive in Australian showrooms between December 2024 and March 2025.

“We are unable to share comment on future model plans, timings, or specifcations for future Australian spec vehicles. As soon as we have confrmed information, we will share this with the market,” an Isuzu spokesperson stated.

Conclusion

The 2025 Isuzu MU-X facelift introduces signifcant design and technology enhancements, promising to elevate the driving experience and appeal of this off-road SUV.

Australian customers can expect the updated model to hit local showrooms in the near future, continuing Isuzu’s tradition of robust and reliable vehicles.

For more information, stay tuned to Isuzu’s offcial announcements as the Australian launch approaches.

Audi’s Most Powerful Petrol Car Unveiled

by Audi.

Performance and Technology

The Performance variant of the RS Q8 is only 14kW less powerful than its sibling, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT. However, it is faster around Germany’s Nürburgring Nordschleife race track, setting a new SUV record with a lap time of 7 minutes 36.698 seconds, compared to the Porsche’s 7 minutes 38.925 seconds. Both models come with eight-speed automatic transmissions and all-wheel-drive systems. The mechanical centre differentials can send up to 70% of engine torque to the front wheels or 85% to the rear. The RS Q8 Performance features a new, lighter exhaust

system standard, with an optional RS sport exhaust that includes gloss black tailpipes.

Suspension and Handling

Adaptive air suspension is standard across the RS Q8 range, offering up to 90mm of ride height variation. Active anti-roll bars stiffen in corners to reduce roll and disconnect in straight lines to enhance comfort. Rear-wheel steering is also standard. Options for the regular RS Q8 include a sport differential and carbon-ceramic brakes, which are standard on the Performance model.

Exterior and Interior

Design

• Exterior: The facelift includes a new front fascia with a honeycomb-pattern grille,

a tweaked rear diffuser with a vertical centre refector strip, and new colour options (Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red). The RS Q8 features HD matrix LED headlights and OLED taillights with customizable lighting signatures and a “proximity indication feature for greater road safety.” Gloss black highlights are standard on the RS Q8, becoming matte grey or optional carbon-fbre on the

Performance variant.

New 23-inch alloy wheels are available in various fnishes, with a forged design on the Performance model that improves brake cooling and reduces unsprung mass by 5kg each.

• Interior: The interior offers a choice of red, grey, and blue RS design packages, with blue exclusive to the Performance variant, including blue seat belts. The packages include

contrast stitching, an Alcantara steering wheel, and Dinamica microfbre gear shifter wrapping. Various option packs add grey, red, or blue seat inlays, embossed RS logos, and additional microfbre highlights.

Pricing and Availability

The 2025 Audi RS Q8 will be available to order in Europe from later this week, with prices starting from ¤141,900 (approximately $AU229,000).

now

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Max Crus is a Clarence Valley-based wine writer and Grape Expectations is now in its 27th year of publication. Find out more about Max or sign up for his weekly reviews and musings by visiting maxcrus.com.au

No nukes is good nukes.

Just as the expression

“Anything that can be taken two ways”, usually means only one thing, “let’s have a mature debate”, is code for ‘it’s immature to disagree with me’.

As a card-carrying greenie, I am about to be excommunicated - Nuclear is a good idea…on paper. However, even if we start now (which we can’t), it will take twice as long to build as anticipated and cost twice as much (think Snowy Hydro 2.0) by which

Bowrider (Allegiance Wines) Riverina Pinot Noir 2023, $22. Wasn’t sure if Bowrider meant archers on horseback or being at the front of a boat. Turns out it’s dolphins, and who doesn’t love them? You don’t see many Dolphins in the Riverina, nor pinots, but they’re making their move. Seafood lunch would work,

time all our uranium will be exhausted on submarines, which co-incidentally Peter Dutton thinks are foating nuclear power stations, a very clever ruse because what community would object to having a submarine in its backyard?

(Note : must visit Holbrook again.)

You won’t get much electricity, but your city is defended against marauding hordes.

The only problem is cost. Paradoxically, we’re already buying three

but not dolphins obviously. 8.9/10.

Bowrider (Allegiance Wines) Riverina Sauvignon Blanc 2024, $22. The frst 2024 wine across the boardroom table deserves a nod for not only being the freshest wine this year but perfectly acceptable bright, sharp, sauv, avoiding the old-

nuclear-powered subs for $385Billion, yet according to the CSIRO, a large-scale nuclear power plant only costs $8.5Billion, so why is everyone jumping up and down about nuclear power and not submarines?

Why not just sacrifce one submarine for 12 power plants, notwithstanding that we will not get electricity from them until 2075, by which time the world will have moved to other forms of power generation heretofore unheard of, perhaps undreamt of?

school pitfall of too much of the above. 9.3/10.

Bowrider (Allegiance Wines) Riverina Shiraz 2023, $22. The stylised dolphin labels lift this above average ‘animalthemed’ wines, and really, dolphins are up there with dogs in human connections. At the lighter end of the shiraz spectrum, perfect

Warp drive, Ion drive, super-solar or something that Isaac Asimov thought of in 1950.

One nuke factory costs the equivalent of putting solar panels plus a battery on 550,000 homes or businesses…tomorrow!

Make some of them community batteries so apartment-dwellers, the poor and those without sun also get it, and bingo!

The aluminium industry and other big users can buy their own gas for the mystical ‘Baseload’ power

for an outing on a cruiser or yacht watching the bowriders. 9/10.

Robert Oatley McLaren Vale Signature Series Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre 2020, $23. 2020 seems almost antique by current standards, but adds a lovely depth and integrity to this, one of Australia’s most popular

or just buy bigger batteries. Problem solved…with current technology!

Queer that after setting us back 10 years in renewable development, the party of privatisation and small government is now advocating public funding of nuclear electricity, although naturally the distribution will be privatised for as big a proft as extractable.

Then at the end of the power station’s life, the public will again be asked to foot the bill for

grape combinations. 9.4/10.

Robert Oatley Margaret River Signature Series Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, $23. Sometimes a cabernet tastes exactly how you expect, and usually those wines are from WA. 14 per cent is almost light these days, and again 2020 old, both of which allow some true cab character to

decommissioning…after having paid twice as much as alternative sources for electricity along the way. Noice work if you can get!

Thankfully, many wineries long ago saw the writing on the Powerwall and many are largely if not entirely powered by renewables already. So while governments obfuscate and procrastinate, we can still enjoy a wine while watching the ship-show… speaking of which, and pass the popcorn please:

emerge, voila! 9.3/10.

Robert Oatley McLaren Vale Signature Series Shiraz 2021, $23. You’d have to think a trophy winner at the McLaren Vale wine show was clever stuff, and it is. Understated by shiraz standards, you can see it gently swayed the judges rather than nuked them. 9.4/10.

Max Crus

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

From simple meals to show-stopping feasts, there’s something for everyone.

CHICKEN, LEEK AND SOUR CREAM PIE

55m prep 1h cook 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

• 50g unsalted butter

• 1 leek, trimmed, sliced

• 50g (1/3 cup) plain four

• 375ml (1 1/2 cups) chicken liquid stock

• 1 barbecue chicken, skin and bones removed, meat chopped

• 125g (1/2 cup) Light Sour Cream

• 1 tbsp fnely chopped fresh rosemary

• 1 egg, lightly whisked

• 2 tsp milk

Sour cream pastry

• 300g (2 cups) plain four

• 100g unsalted butter, chopped

• 125g (1/2 cup) Light Sour Cream

• 1 egg

METHOD

1. For the pastry, process four and butter in a food processor until mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add cream. Process until combined. Add egg. Process until mixture just comes together. Transfer to work surface. Knead until smooth. Shape one-third

of the pastry into a rectangle. Shape remainder into a rectangle. Wrap both in plastic wrap. Chill in fridge for 20 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add leek and cook for 5 minutes or until soft. Add four and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until mixture bubbles. Remove from heat. Gradually add stock, whisking until smooth. Return to heat. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until mixture thickens. Remove from heat. Stir in chicken, sour cream and rosemary. Season with salt and white pepper. Set aside to cool.

3. Preheat oven to 220°C/200°C fan forced. Place a baking tray on bottom shelf of oven. Roll out larger portion of pastry into a 3mm-thick rectangle. Line a 11 x 35cm (base measurement) futed tart tin with removable base with pastry. Trim excess. Reserve scraps. Spoon chicken mixture over pastry base. Roll remaining pastry out and cover top of pie.

4. Re-roll pastry scraps. Cut into leaf shapes. Place leaves on top of pie. Combine egg and milk in a bowl. Brush over top of pie. Bake on preheated tray for 45 minutes until golden.

BACON AND EGG QUICHES

SLOW-COOKER CAMBODIAN CHICKEN CURRY

5m prep 6h cook

4 servings

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 tbsp red curry paste

• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric

• 270ml can coconut milk

• 900g chicken thigh fllets, fat trimmed, quartered

• 1 lemongrass stalk, white part bruised

• 5 cardamom pods, crushed

• 2 kaffr limes leaves

• 2 tbsp desiccated coconut

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• Steamed rice, to serve

• Fresh basil leaves, to serve

• Lime slices, to serve

• Thinly sliced red chilli, to serve

METHOD

1. Whisk together the curry paste, turmeric and half of the coconut milk in the bowl of a slow cooker. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Add the lemongrass, cardamom, lime leaves and remaining coconut milk. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is very tender.

2. Remove and discard the lemongrass. Stir the desiccated coconut and sugar through the curry. Serve with steamed rice and top with basil, lime slices and chilli.

INGREDIENTS

• 6 rashers streaky bacon

• 100g fetta, crumbled

• 4 Eggs

• 1 cup (250ml) thickened cream

• 9 cherry tomatoes, halved

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Grease 6 holes of a ½-cup (125ml) Texas muffn pan and line the bases with baking paper. Arrange 1 bacon strip around the side of each prepared hole. Divide fetta evenly among the holes.

2. Whisk the eggs and cream in a large jug until well combined. Season. Pour evenly over fetta and top with tomato.

3. Bake for 25-30 mins or until frm to touch. Set aside in the pan for 5 mins to cool before carefully turning onto a wire rack to cool completely

Gardening has seen a remarkable evolution over the years. From rudimentary tools to sophisticated machinery, the transition has been profound. The debate between modern and traditional garden tools is a compelling one, refecting broader changes in technology, lifestyle, and environmental awareness.

Traditional Garden Tools

Traditional garden tools have been the backbone of gardening for generations. These tools, often made from wood and metal, include

hoes, shovels, rakes, and pruners. Each tool is designed for a specifc task, whether it’s turning soil, digging holes, or trimming plants.

One of the primary advantages of traditional garden tools is their simplicity. They are straightforward to use and require no special training or knowledge.

The manual nature of these tools also means they are reliable; there is no risk of mechanical failure or the need for batteries or electricity.

Moreover, traditional tools often have a longer lifespan. A wellmaintained hoe or shovel

can last for decades, passed down from one generation to the next. This durability is partly due to the materials used in their construction. High-quality steel and sturdy wood handles can withstand years of wear and tear.

However, traditional garden tools are not without their drawbacks.

The manual effort required can be taxing, especially for those with physical limitations or large gardens. Digging, weeding, and other repetitive tasks can lead to fatigue and strain. Additionally, traditional tools may not be as effcient as their modern counterparts in certain situations, potentially requiring more time and effort to achieve the same results.

Modern Garden Tools

Modern garden tools have revolutionised the way we approach gardening. These tools incorporate advanced materials, ergonomic designs, and technology to enhance gardening effciency and comfort. Electric and batterypowered tools, such as leaf blowers, hedge trimmers, and tillers, are now commonplace.

The most signifcant advantage of modern garden tools is their ability to reduce physical labour. For instance, a battery-powered or petrol tiller can prepare a garden bed in a fraction of the time it would take using a traditional hoe. Similarly, electric or petrol hedge trimmers can make quick work of trimming bushes and hedges, saving time and energy.

Ergonomic designs are another hallmark of modern tools. Manufacturers have focused on creating tools that reduce strain on the body. Features such as padded handles, adjustable lengths, and lightweight materials make these tools easier and more comfortable to use, particularly for extended periods.

Technology has also made its way into the garden with smart tools. Automated irrigation systems, robotic lawn mowers, and soil sensors can optimise gardening tasks, ensuring plants receive the right amount of water and care. These smart tools can be controlled via smartphones, allowing gardeners to manage

their gardens remotely. Despite their advantages, modern garden tools come with some downsides. They are often more expensive than traditional tools, both in initial cost and maintenance. Batterypowered and electric tools require regular charging and may need replacement parts over time. Additionally, their reliance on technology can be a double-edged sword; if a tool malfunctions or the battery dies, it can halt gardening activities until the issue is resolved.

Finding the Right Balance

Choosing between modern and traditional garden tools ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences. For those who appreciate simplicity and durability, traditional tools may be the better choice. They offer reliability and a connection to the past, making them a favourite among many seasoned gardeners.

On the other hand, modern tools are ideal for gardeners looking to save time and reduce physical effort. They are particularly useful for those with larger gardens

or physical limitations that make manual labour challenging.

The convenience and effciency provided by modern tools can make gardening a more enjoyable and accessible activity for a broader range of people.

The Choice is up to You

Both modern and traditional garden tools have their place in the gardener’s arsenal. Traditional tools offer simplicity, durability, and a timeless charm, while modern tools bring effciency, comfort, and technological advancements. By understanding the benefts and limitations of each, gardeners can make informed decisions that suit their specifc needs and preferences, ultimately enhancing their gardening experience.

Whether you prefer the hands-on approach of traditional tools or the innovative features of modern ones, the key is to fnd the right balance that allows you to enjoy and succeed in your gardening endeavours.

Death Notice

JACKSON, SIMON NICHOLAS

22. 03. 1969 ~ 28. 06. 2024

Late of Ballina. Passed away peacefully on Friday 28th June 2024, aged 55. Much loved father and father-in-law of Joshua & Stephanie, Dean & Brittinee, Tayla & Sam. Cherished Poppy Jack of Kehlani, Huxley, Angus, Hallie and Arlen. Beloved son of Robert (dec.) and Kaye and brother of Chris and Tim.

Sandra Lee Dunbar 25th July 1957 – 27th May 2024

Passed away peacefully at home at Busselton WA. Dearly loved wife of Chris, much loved mother and mother-in-law of Troy and Stacey, Erin and Matthew.

Loved Nanna of Jack, Logan, Isla and Thomas. Loved daughter of Geoffrey and Lenore (decd) & stepdaughter of Suzanne Pringle.

Loved sister and sister-in-law of Donna & Ray, Lisa, Ross & Kelly, Mark (decd) and Denise.

Daughter-in-law of Thomas and Gloria Dunbar. Sister-in-law of Shereen & Ian Rossiter and Melissa and Neil Hepburn. Loved aunt and great aunt of her nieces and nephews.

A cherished life, a talented Lady.

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WEATHER

FORECAST

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Cloudy. High chance of showers. The chance of a storm along the coastal fringe. Winds southerly 15 to 25 km/h becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers. Winds southerly 15 to 25 km/h.

Northern Tablelands District:

Cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Winds southeasterly 25 to 35 km/h.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers on and east of the ranges. Winds southeasterly 20 to 30 km/h.

New South Wales:

Scattered showers about the coast and in the northeast, more frequent along the north coast. The chance of showers over the central and northern inland. The chance of snow showers

on the Alps and far southern ranges above 1100 metres. Dry and partly cloudy elsewhere. Areas of morning frost on the southern and central ranges, and the inland plains. Daytime temperatures below average in the far northeast and mostly near average elsewhere. South to southeasterly winds, fresh at times along the coast.

Thursday. Scattered showers about the coast and possibly about the adjacent ranges, more frequent along the north coast, and possibly falling as snow above 1300 metres on the Alps. The slight chance of a shower west of the Divide. Areas of morning frost in the south and possibly on the northern ranges. Daytime temperatures mostly near to average. South to southeasterly winds along the coast, fresh at times, tending east to southeasterly inland.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Southeasterly 15 to 25 knots. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, increasing to 1.5 to 2 metres offshore north of Yamba. 1st

Swell: Southerly 2 to 2.5 metres, tending southeasterly 2 to 2.5 metres during the morning. 2nd Swell: East to northeasterly around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres north of Yamba. Weather: Cloudy. 90% chance of showers. The chance of a storm.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: Southeasterly 15 to 20 knots turning southerly during the afternoon. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the afternoon. 1st Swell: South to southeasterly 2 to 2.5 metres. 2nd Swell: East to northeasterly around 1 metre. Weather: Cloudy. 90% chance of showers. The chance of a storm.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Southeasterly 15 to 25 knots. Seas: 1.5 to 2 metres, decreasing to 1.5 metres during the evening. 1st Swell: Southeasterly 2 to 2.5 metres. 2nd Swell: Easterly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Weather: Cloudy. 90% chance of showers.

By Tim Howard

The South Grafton Rebels have climbed off the bottom of the Group 2 frst grade rugby league ladder with a decisive 40-16 win over Macksville at McKittrick Park, South Grafton.

It was the Rebels frst game at home since early May and the start of a three-game home streak that will test Sawtell, the Grafton Ghosts and Woolgoolga in the run Into the semi-fnals.

While the Rebels are only a mathematical chance to climb into contention for a semi-fnal spot, they have found the type of form that will create headaches for the front runners.

The Rebels muscled up in defence against an aggressive Macksville pack and tore them apart in attack with a number of their seven tries for the afternoon worthy of the season highlights package.

Nick McGrady showed he has settled into the half back position with a hat trick of tries as well as a couple of assists to go with fve goals.

Hard working lock Richard Roberts snared a couple within minutes of each other in the frst half and Jamal Laurie and Tyler Roberts scored one each.

McGrady opened the scoring with a converted try early in the game.

But it was the Rebels defence on their line that broke the hearts of the visitors and introduced an element of desperation into their attack.

After surrendering a glut of possession to the Sea Eagles, the Rebels looked out on their feet and couldn’t believe their luck when hooker Zane Doolan knocked on over the line midway through the half.

A couple of penalties piggy backed the Rebels upfeld and a sweeping backline move to the left edge put McGrady over for his second try of the day.

Ten minutes the Rebels came close when Jye Boehme nearly benefted from a magical Hughie Stanley short kick. He few high to grab the ball over the line, but was judged to have knocked it on trying to ground it.

But it was a short reprieve for Macksville when Roberts crossed for two tries with minutes of each other at the end of the half.

The 22-0 score line at half time fattered the visitors. The Rebels had scored four tries and came close on a couple of other occasions.

The second half was barely a few minutes old when the Rebels scored a try from the freakish bounce a rugby league ball can sometimes take.

After forcing a line drop out the Rebels watched Andrew Blair’s long drop kick fall into space.

The ball hit on its point and instead of bouncing forward it bounded back toward the Macksville line.

But the bounce surprised everyone, except McGrady who charged onto the ball and crashed through the

tackle of fullback Josh Bartlett to score in the corner.

McGrady’s conversion missed, but a couple of minutes later he had a much easier shot when the Rebels were awarded a penalty after a high tackle.

At 28-0 it looked like the Rebels were going to run up a cricket score, but to their credit, the visitors kept plugging away and were the next to score when they punished a rare error from Stanley, who spilled a straight forward catch from the kick off.

A big run from centre Damien Carriage-Watts and couple of quick play the balls followed by slick passing from fve eighth Rielly Laverton put winger Ryan Atkins over.

Blair converted and Macksville were on the

board at last.

The Rebels hit back with the try of the game several minutes later. It came from nowhere as McGrady juggled a pass as the defence rushed at him.

Instead of panicking he threw a neat dummy and stepped past a tired forward and sprinted into the clear.

Laurie spotted his opportunity and came screaming through on his outside.

With the defence closing McGrady decided the chip ahead was the best option and placed a delightful kick into the path of his winger who was at top speed on his outside.

Laurie grabbed the ball metres from the line and crashed over the top of the covering winger to score a magic try.

At 34-6 in front the

Rebels discipline started to slip and a series of penalties in the Rebels quarter led to the visitors second try.

It was well taken score.

Interchange forward

Andrew Welsh and lock Mathew Hyland dented the defensive line before Blair made a half break and passed to a fying Bartlett who touched down in the corner.

Blair’s conversion hit the uprights and bounced out

Macksville were in again a few minutes later when Welsh scored after the referee sent Rebels fullback Keiron JohnsonHeron to the sinbin with fve minutes left on the clock.

Welsh took a quick tap 10 metres out and charged over to score under the stick.

Blair’s conversion made it 34-16, but the

Rebels had the last laugh when brothers Richard and Tyler Roberts combined for the fnal score of the game in the dying seconds of the game.

Richard Roberts put the try on a plate for his brother, slipping through a half gap and passing inside for Tyler to sprint 30 metres and run round under the posts.

Prop Bailey Sinclair was given the kicking duties and knocked over the conversion to make the score 40-10.

Despite the score there were some worries for the Rebel with stand-in captain coach Grant Stevens limping off in the frst half and centre Brian Quinlan-Randall taken from the feld in the second half. The weekend results triggered some movement in the top fve.

On Saturday the Grafton Ghosts moved into second spot on the ladder with a 24-18 win over previously secondplaced Sawtell at Frank McGuren Field. The Panther’s slid to fourth. Premiers Woolgoolga jumped into third spot with a 30-12 win over the Coffs Harbour Comets on Sunday.

The win puts them a point ahead of the Panthers, who a single point ahead of Macksville in ffth spot. The Rebels host Sawtell on Sunday and on Saturday the Ghosts will be looking for revenge against Nambucca who humbled them 62-12 at home earlier in the season.

CASINO RSM WOMEN’S BOWLS

RESULTS

On Wednesday 26/6 rounds for the minor pairs were played & the results were: Jan Cooke & Jan Dwyer def Carmel Doyle & Chris Haynes Ivy Watson & Julie Creighton def Denise Skinner & Mary Mead

Congratulations to the winners & good luck in the next round, which will be the fnal on Wednesday 3/7. In our social game the result was: Judy Carthew & Maria

Hellyar def Marlene Jordan & Annette James New members welcome.

CHERRY STREET

CROQUET CLUB

SPORTS RESULTS

RICOCHET CROQUET:

R.Allen N.Poynting 12 d

C.Woodlands N.Barnes 8

D.Scott 12 d P.Waters 11

P.Bolte J.Hannigan 12 d

H.Young J.Doust 8

R.Poynting J.Bate 11 d

A.Mangan D.Scott 7

H.Young J.Hannigan 11 d

R.Allen N.Poynting 8

P.Scott P.Bolte 10 d

B.Wellings M.Russell 8

D.Jones M.Field 12 d

J.Doust B.Bill 10

TOURNAMENTS:

Northern Rivers Area

Golf Championships: Handicap Doubles:

R.Hughes M.Mitchell Ballina 1st

G.Leach S.Elliott Byron Bay 2nd

Open Handicap Singles:

G.Leach Byron Bay 1st

W.Borkhardt Byron Bay 2nd.

Open Level Play Singles:

R. Chapman Cherry Street 1st

P.Waters Lismore 2nd.

Crusader Cup Open

Doubles :

R.Chapman D.Scott

Cherry Street 1st

M.Hughes S.Daley

Ballina 2nd.

CORAKI VETERANS

GOLF RESULTS

THURSDAY 27/6/24

54 Golfers played an 18 hole single stableford event, winner W Swindle, 2nd R Earnshaw, 3rd J Celich, free game D Bullock, chicken/ball winners G Flaherty, S McDonald, J Dorien, S Toms, J Nilsson, A Ganter, J Savins, B Collyer, J Lassig, T Beemster, G Ablett, T Doyle, K Osborne, R Rodda, T Newton. Nearest pins 3rd/12th G Ablett, 6th/15th G Flaherty.

This Thursday will be the July Monthly Medal commencing with a shot gun start at 8.30am. AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING

BALLINA MAHJONG 28TH JUNE 2024

Shirley Atkinson 1, Carol Meyer 2, Linda Lloyd 3, Jan Small 4, Coral Lavelle 5, Vanessa Reynolds 6, Ronda Taylor 7, Janene Jarvis 8, Joy Lowien, Lorna Simpson 9, Jane Fenech 11, Gail McDonagh 12, Wendy Thornton 13, Yvonne Weddup 14,Jan Boardman 15, Lisa Wong 16, Pauline Bolte

17, Ann Hewitt, Lesley Richie, Valda McLerie 18, Gladys D’Anna 21, Shirley Coleman 22, Kath Hubbard 23, Ramsay Roper 24, Margaret Bryant 25, Pauline Kearney 26, Jenny Lang 27, Barbara Ellan, Diana Auret 28, Pam Farrell 30, Kathy Pickles 21, Sally Lowry 32, Cindy Smith 23, Susan Scott 34, Jan Henley 35. Friday at 12:30pm at the Ballina Bridge Club North Creek Road. Enquiries for new players phone Shirley on 0423384647.

Rebels halfback Nick McGrady, pictured here in a fle photo from two seasons ago, was too hot to handle for the Macksville defence on Sunday, with three tries and fve goals. He also fgured heavily in at least two other tries on the day.

The South Sydney Rabbitohs have signed promising outside back Fletcher Myers immediately until the end of the 2025 season today.

Myers, 21, has been released from the remainder of his playing contract at the Newcastle Knights and he will join the Rabbitohs immediately on a development contract for the remainder of the 2024 season as well as the 2025 season.

Myers, a proud Worimi man, is a Waratah Mayfeld Cheetahs junior that spent two years in the Sea Eagles’ development pathway before heading back north to Newcastle where he was on development contract with the Knights this year. Myers has played 20 NSW Cup matches with the Knights and Sea Eagles over the past two seasons as well as having opportunities to play in NRL pre-season trials with both clubs, and represented New South Wales under

16s and the New South Wales Koori under 16s in 2019, where he was named man-of-the-match in the annual clash against the Queensland Murri under 16s.

Myers is also studying a Bachelor of Education (Secondary Science and Physical Education) degree at Southern Cross University, setting himself up for a career post-football.

Rabbitohs Head of Football, Mark Ellison, says Myers will add further depth to the outside backs at the Rabbitohs, particularly in the centres.

“Fletcher is highly motivated to take the next step in his career and he has expressed his excitement to have the opportunity to push for that to happen at South Sydney,” Mr Ellison said.

“He is a big body with skills to match, he’s a mature young man, and we’re looking forward to having him don the red and green of the Rabbitohs this year and next.”

By Gary Nichols

There was a subdued atmosphere in the Grafton Redmen dressing room as players wrestled with their emotions in the wake of their 24-21 loss to SCU Marlins on Saturday.

Down 17-0 at the break, Grafton almost dramatically snatched an

unlikely victory in the shadows of full time but fell agonising short in a high-quality game.

The home side raced to a 24-0 lead just after halftime however, to their credit, Grafton stayed patient and slowly clawed their way back into the contest to set up an epic grandstand fnish.

Marlins produced a

fawless frst half with their “wolf-pack” style line defence shutting down Grafton’s attack.

Grafton could not be accused of lacking heart, but giving away 24-unanswered points proved to be their undoing.

Grafton’s attack at times looked fat and unimaginative while

their clean-out at the breakdown lacked that physical edge and intensity.

For Grafton number eight Mosese Tuvoliu and Johnny King were the pick of the forwards while in the back’s winger Atunasia Vodovodo is proving to be a strike-weapon out wide.

As the registration period closed on June 30, Woolgoolga Football Club celebrated a recordbreaking year with 605 enthusiastic footballers signing up for the 2024 season.

Woolgoolga president Peter Knott expressed his delight with the club’s growth, attributing the success to the strong community spirit of the town. “Our community is the heart and soul of this club,” Knott said. “Their support and enthusiasm have fuelled our remarkable growth.”

Although the season has passed its halfway point, clubs are still busy rescheduling catch-up matches from previous

rounds that were washed out. Despite these challenges, Woolgoolga Football Club is thriving. Knott shared insights into what makes the club so successful, highlighting their undefeated men’s premier league team,

which is currently sitting proudly at the top of the league. “Our premier league team is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved,” Knott said. “They’re performing exceptionally well, and we couldn’t be

prouder.”

Meanwhile, at the other end of the spectrum, the Woolgoolga under-12s had their moment in the sun, celebrating their frst win of the season. The young players’ joy was palpable as they relished their hard-earned victory. It’s been a record year across the board, with almost 6,000 players registering in 2024 in the North Coast Football region, marking a 13% rise from the previous year. Female football continues to grow, with a total of 1,913 female footballers registering in 2024, accounting for 32% of total registrations.

Fletcher Myers

The Redmen almost snatched a last-minute win over the Marlins after conceding 24 unanswered points. The team will be looking to re-discover their physical edge in at the forwards in the second half of the season. Photo: Gary Nichols.

The Tweed Seagulls Rugby League Club is proud to announce its annual Eximm Indigenous Recognition Day, set to take place on Saturday, 6th July, at Piggabeen Sports Complex. This special event is dedicated to honouring the rich cultural heritage of the Indigenous community, promoting inclusivity, and celebrating the spirit of rugby league.

The Seagulls Host Plus Cup team will take the feld in a specially designed jersey created by renowned local Indigenous artist Christine Slabb. The jersey, titled “Birds of a Feather,” represents both the club and the region.

Our major partner, Seagulls Club, has once again supported the day by forgoing their front-of-jersey spot for Eximm. Tweed Seagulls CEO Brendon Lindsay expressed gratitude, stating, “We thank the Seagulls again this year for their support in forgoing the front of jersey spot for our community and Indigenous Jersey partners, Eximm. Both organizations hold community engagement at the forefront of everything they do, and for Eximm to support our club in delivering this day of recognition

again in 2024 is a credit to their organization, and we thank them for this.”

Eximm’s Business Development Executive, Paul Coughlan, added, “We are once again extremely proud and honoured to be the front-of-jersey sponsors for the 2024 Indigenous Recognition Game Day. Eximm believes culture holds a signifcant role within the community, and this sponsorship enables us to align our values with the Tweed Seagulls Rugby League Club and the tremendous support they deliver to the community.” Eximm

also extended their gratitude to Christine Slabb for bringing the story “Birds of a Feather” to life on this year’s jerseys. The Indigenous Recognition Day will be a day-long celebration featuring a series of exciting games and activities, including:

• Welcome to Country by Kyle & Josh Slabb

• Performance by the Gudjinburra Dance Group

• PCYC Tweed Heads

Youth Hub: Selling raffe tickets to raise funds for the 2024 “Nations of Origin” Bundjalung

Representative Under 14s and 16s Basketball Program.

The event is supported by Sinead Singh and First Nation Start Up, who helped organize the program.

Tweed Seagulls Junior Rugby League Games: Kicking off the morning, our talented junior teams will showcase their skills and passion for the game. This is a fantastic opportunity for young players to experience the thrill of playing in front of a supportive community.

Gold Coast Titans All Abilities Games:

The highlight of the day will be the Tweed Seagulls game against the Mackay Cutters, kicking off at 5:00 PM.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, 6th July

• Time: Event starts at 2:00 PM, Main Game Kick-off at 5:00 PM

• Location: Piggabeen Sports Complex, Tweed Heads, NSW

In addition to the thrilling on-feld action, the event will include traditional Indigenous performances and the PCYC activations hub for all the kids.

In a demonstration of our commitment to inclusivity, we are thrilled to host the Gold Coast Titans All Abilities teams. These games will highlight the incredible talent and determination of players with disabilities, proving that rugby league is a sport for everyone.

Under 8’s Games: We will host teams from the Northern Rivers and the Gold Coast, giving the afternoon a State of Origin feel.

At 4:45 PM, we will host the Indigenous Dance Group and Welcome to Country.

“We are incredibly excited to host the Indigenous Recognition Day,” said Brendon Lindsay, CEO of the Tweed Seagulls Rugby League Club. “This event is a testament to our commitment to community, culture, and the inclusivity of rugby league. It’s a day to celebrate not only the sport but also the diverse backgrounds and abilities of our players and supporters.”

The Tweed Seagulls Rugby League Club invites everyone to join us for this special occasion. It’s an opportunity to enjoy fantastic rugby league, embrace cultural diversity, and support the growth and inclusion of all players in our sport.

TWEED SEAGULLS INDIGENOUS RECOGNITION DAY:

CELEBRATING CULTURE, INCLUSION, AND RUGBY LEAGUE