The Northern Rivers Times Edition 151

CHINDERAH RESIDENTS FEAR THEIR HOME WILL BE LOST TO THE TWEED RIVER

BY SARAH WATERS

RESIDENTS of Homestead

Holiday Park in Chinderah Les Barron and Di Parkinson fear it is only a matter of months until their home slips into the Tweed River.

Last year’s Tweed flood, which swept through Homestead Holiday Park, caused the riverbank’s rock wall to slip away behind their home.

The land behind their home has continued to erode since.

Their house now sits in a precarious position only seven meters from the river and the erosion gets worse each day.

Mr Barron said they’ve lost about four meters of land behind their house over the last year.

Despite pleading with Tweed Shire Council to do something about the situation, nothing has been done and they have no idea when it will be.

“We’ve been emailing council for 12 months, but they fob us off to Waterways,” Mr Barron said.

“And then the Waterways fob us back to the council, so it’s backwards and forwards and nothing gets done.

“Every time a boat

goes past, the wake comes in and you see it undermining the land, it just washes it out.”

The couple have got as far as speaking with engineers from the council only to be told a number of reports will need to be done before they can do anything to fix the erosion.

Mrs Parkinson said if no one steps in and does something soon it’s

going to be too late.

“It’s been 12 months now,” she said.

“The ground has gone down so much - you can see the grass area where it has fallen recently and once a month another big chunk falls in and we’ve already lost four meters.

“In 12 months’ time it will be up to my back door.

“I’ve very scared, I put a lot of money and effort

into fixing this place that we live in, and I love living here, it’ll just be horrendous if I lost it - it’ll bankrupt me.”

Neighbour Anne-Maree Jackson said she was highly concerned about the lack of action to resolve the situation.

“I’ve lived here for 22 years and the area of land that has now gone, used to have picnic tables there under the

palm trees,” Mrs Jackson said.

“The problem isn’t getting fixed – there’s too much red tape.

“I’m worried for my neighbours and if their house goes, mine will be next.”

Mrs Jackson said there were also a lot of older residents who walk along the river and grandchildren of residents who play and fish off the riverbank.

The eroded area has not been cordoned off and residents hold further concerns that someone could easily slip into the river.

A spokesperson for Crown Lands confirmed the land between the Homestead Holiday Park and the river was owned as freehold by Tweed Shire Council.

They said any enquiries needed to be directed to the council as the landowner.

Tweed Shire Council Mayor Chris Cherry said council was aware of the issue and had submitted a funding application to the NSW Government to stabilise the erosion, however the outcome of the grant remained unknown.

“The question of who is responsible for this site is unclear, with the

land in question being a combination of NSW Crown Land and Tweed Shire Council land,” Ms Cherry said.

“However, the site is not accessible to the public and is managed as if it was private property by the owners of Homestead Holiday Park, who charge residents rent to occupy their homes and use public land.”

Ms Cherry said if the grant application was successful, and council received funding to stabilise the erosion, it could still take up to 12 months to fix.

She said it was due to the lengthy process required to gain NSW Crown Land approvals.

“Council typically waits 12 months for a NSW Crown Land licence for any riverbank erosion stabilisation project – however we hope approval will come quicker than this.”

Ms Cherry also explained why the unstable riverbank was currently not cordoned off by council.

“Given there is no public access to this site, council does not access, manage or maintain the riverbank at this location. “Should safety barriers of any kind be erected

CLARENCE MP AND RICHMOND VALLEY MAYOR UNITE IN BID TO REOPEN CASINO COURTHOUSE

The ongoing closure of the flood-damaged Casino Courthouse is hurting locals, and local State Nationals

MP for Clarence Richie Williamson, with the backing of Richmond Valley Council Mayor, Robert Mustow through a recent Mayoral Minute has used a speech in Parliament to ask the NSW Labor Government to re-open it ASAP.

“I fully support Mayor Mustow’s bid for the

Casino courthouse to be reopened and seek any assistance to expedite the repair works required given the impacts on the local community and the economy,” Mr Williamson told the Legislative Assembly.

Mr Williamson said the first priority of flood recovery was helping flood victims, but it was time to also restore key community assets.

“The closure of the

Casino Local Court is having a negative impact in many ways. The low socio-economic and high Indigenous communities, some of whom have very limited transport, are struggling to attend because public transport is almost non-existent.”

“It is impacting family members who are needed at the court as support people. I believe that the operational impact on our local

police force is now immense because local police officers need to travel to and from Lismore or Kyogle for appearances and court hearings.”

“Economic impacts on Casino are being felt because of the lack of court days, which would normally bring to the community a high number of professional people to the community, where they would quite often

stay for the night.”

“It would be a great shot of confidence for the community if the court were reopened as soon as possible. It is a part of the healing and recovery process that is so important for my community.”

“I urge the Government to do everything in its power to have the Casino courthouse fully operational again as soon as possible.

ERODED RIVERBANK: The trunk of a palm tree (furthest from the land) indicates where the land behind Di Parkinson’s home once stretched out to.

Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson

by council, we would be bound to inspect and maintain this site on at least a weekly basis.

“For the reason of no public access, and the need for staff to continually access the site by way of private property, no hazard identification is provided at the site.”

Ms Cherry said given the severity of waterway erosion experienced across the Tweed following last year’s flood and the lack of public access to this site, the issue was ‘just one of many’ being considered

FLOOD AFFECTED RESIDENTS SAY THEY’RE NOT WAITING TO BE RESCUED AGAIN

by council.

“We appreciate this is a very worrying situation for the residents but there are just so many repairs after the flood that council is compelled to prioritise repairs based on certain risk factors,” she said.

The Northern Rivers Times tried to contact the owner of Homestead Holiday Park, but he was away at the time this story went to print. A follow-up story will be in next week’s edition

BY SARAH WATERS

CHINDERAH residents Lyn Tupaea and Michelle Shaw have taken on the role of co-leaders for the Community-led Resilience Team (CRT) at Homestead Holiday Park.

Both ladies were impacted by the February 2022 Tweed floods and decided it was up to them to ensure their own safety.

Ms Tupaea has happily lived at Homestead Holiday Park next to the Tweed River on Chinderah Bay Drive for six years.

But after the 2022 flood, she was displaced for four months.

Her home was six houses back from the river’s edge, but when the river burst its banks, water went right through it and left it uninhabitable.

Initially she was re-located to the Kingscliff TAFE Evacuation Centre, but a few days later, she had to live between hotels and holiday accommodation until her home was repaired. Because it was Easter and school holidays a lot of the accommodation had already been prebooked. She often found herself scrambling to find somewhere to sleep for the night.

The accommodation, she was able to find and stay in during the four months, cost her $18,000. As the same time, she was trying get her home clean and repaired so she could eventually return to it.

Both her cars were written off too.

Ms Tupaea said there were people who experienced far worse than her, but she certainly does not want to relive the experience again.

“We need to be prepared for next time,” Ms Tupaea said.

“Now we’ve joined the continued page 4

TOO CLOSE: Residents at Homestead Holiday Park in Chinderah, from left, Les Barron and Di Parkinson with neighbour AnneMaree Jackson, are fearful ongoing erosion on the Tweed River will eventually claim their home

EMERGENCY PLANNING: New portable radios, purchased with donations raised through the Together Tweed Mayoral Flood Appeal 2022, were delivered to residents at Chinderah’s Homestead Holiday Park. Pictured, from left, residents Lyn Tupaea and Michelle Shaw, Mayor Chris Cherry and Red Cross representatives Tammy Jones and Jasmin.

FLOOD AFFECTED RESIDENTS SAY THEY’RE NOT WAITING TO BE RESCUED AGAIN

continued from page 3

Community-led Resilience Team (CRT) we’re linked up to the SES and the rural fire brigade and if there’s a big amount of water coming down, they’ll notify us.

“In the floods last time we had no communications, they went down, and we were completely cut off.

“Now the Community-led Resilience Team people will be able to contact people at risk – contact people on oxygen and people who are in wheelchairs and get them out sooner.

“Last time it happened so quickly, and we weren’t prepared at all.

“We’ve all thought we can’t sit back and just wait for someone to come and save us.

“By having the portable radios (purchased by Australian Red Cross Emergency Service) it’s going to be a big help.”

Ms Tupaea said the Community-led Resilience Team was like a Neighbourhood Watch group and it has allowed residents to become involved and educate themselves on what to do in an emergency.

She said there had been a ‘big shift’ at the holiday park and everyone had put their hand up to help.

“We have identified

skills we didn’t know we had before.

“The more we are able to help ourselves, the better it is for the future.”

Fellow resident and Community-led Resilience Team co-leader Michelle Shaw has lived at the Homestead Holiday Park for 11 years.

Ms Shaw said she had never seen the park flood before 2022.

“It went up over the barbeque, all the big, heavy (outdoor) chairs ended up in the river,” Ms Shaw said.

“The water went up to my second step, our sheds and storage shed were covered in mud.”

Ms Shaw said she got off relatively lightly compared to other residents at the holiday park.

But, when the flood water first came through the park, she was ‘very scared.’

“The one thing I did find traumatic was when we tried to get out - we got the notice late from the SES and the water was already coming up (to about knee height) and we couldn’t get out.

“Local volunteers in boats and jet skis came to get us out - before that I was panicking because we were trapped, we didn’t know what to do.”

Ms Shaw said the Community-led Resilience Team has allowed residents to formulate a plan for future evacuations.

MUCH-NEEDED EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE WELCOMED

BY SARAH WATERS

THERE are residents at Chinderah’s Homestead Holiday Park who get anxious every time it rains heavily.

Memories of last year’s February and March floods are still fresh in their minds.

The holiday park was one of many in the Tweed Shire subjected to widespread flooding, which resulted in most of its residents been evacuated by boat and jetski.

Cut off from internet and phone services, they were left to face rising flood waters until help arrived.

But, now residents at Chinderah’s holiday parks are a lot more prepared for future emergencies.

Last Wednesday (May 24) portable radios were handed over to residents at the holiday parks to improve flood resilience in the Tweed.

The radios were among more than 40 Ultra High Frequency (UHF) and Very High Frequency (VHF) radios purchased by the Australian Red Cross Emergency Service.

The Australia Red Cross Emergency Service received a $20,000 donation from the Together Tweed Mayoral Flood Appeal 2022 to purchase the radios.

If communication is lost during a flood or bushfire emergency in the future, the radios will ensure communities are not isolated.

Red Cross Community Resilience Officer Tammy Jones assisted displaced community members during the 2022 floods.

She worked at the Banora Point Evacuation Centre and provided outreach support to isolated communities.

Mrs Jones said the radios would enable residents to stay connected to each other during times of need.

“After the 2017 flood, a lot of people didn’t think we could get anything worse - and then the floods of Feb 2022 hit us and it was far worse,” Mrs Jones said.

“We are still providing support to so many community members who remain displaced and are in need of help following last year’s flood.”

Mrs Jones started the Community-led Resilience Teams (CRT) which grew out of the disaster recovery work in the Tweed following the widespread flooding from Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017.

Community-led Resilience Teams are led by residents and provide emergency preparedness information within their local communities.

They link to emergency service agencies including the SES and fire brigades to raise awareness of

local disaster risks and combine resources to improve the resilience of individuals, families and the community.

Mrs Jones said Community-led Resilience Teams have really helped communities come together and support each other.

“After the floods you saw so many people isolated and disconnected, and they weren’t getting the information they needed to.

“We believe these new Community-led Resilience Teams will do a lot to build resilience in the community moving forward.”

There are currently 26 Community-led Resilience Teams in the Tweed Shire and 130 altogether throughout NSW.

More and more communities, especially isolated ones, throughout the state have started to adopt the model.

Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry joined Mrs Jones at Homestead Holiday Park to formally present the radios to its residents.

Mayor Cherry said residents at holiday

parks in Chinderah were among the most vulnerable in the community.

“I am especially pleased to see these funds raised through the appeal going to them,” Ms Cherry said.

“We know that in times of emergency, knowledge is power, and these radios will go a long way towards ensuring communities are not isolated again in the event of any future emergency - be it flood, fire, pandemic or any other situation.

“With these radios, residents will be able to make contact with each other, with their neighbours at nearby holiday parks and stay in touch with first responders to ensure they are well prepared for any event.”

A total of $80,230 was raised through the Together Tweed Mayoral Flood Appeal 2022 appeal.

In addition to the radios purchased for the Red Cross, funds were distributed to the Murwillumbah Community Centre to replace their bus and to the Family Centre, Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRCF) and local units of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES).

For more information on the Together Tweed Mayoral Flood Appeal 2022, visit tweed.nsw. gov.au/mayoral-floodappeal Anyone who is interested in setting up a CRT in their community can contact the Red Cross at nswemergencyservices@ redcross.org.au

WE ARE MOVING BACK TO OUR OFFICE

My office will be moving back to 55 Carrington Street, Lismore, now repaired since the February 2022 flood.

This relocation will be effected from Wednesday 2 May until our first fully operational day Tuesday 9 May My staff will endeavour to respond to all phone and email messages

We thank everyone in advance for your understanding as we ‘build back better’ to provide services to our local community for the next four-year term of Parliament.

FINDING HELP: Homestead Holiday Park resident Michelle Shaw, co-leader of her park’s new Community-led Resilient Team (CRT), tries out one of the new portable radios that was given to residents.

BY TIM HOWARD

The Grafton Anglican diocese has revealed who will the ninth Dean of Grafton after the retirement of Dr Gregory Jenks last year.

The Bishop of Grafton, Murray Harvey, has named the The Revd Canon Naomi Cooke, to the role, the first woman to take the position.

Canon Naomi has more than two decades of ministry experience and since 2016 has been school chaplain at Bishop Druitt College, an Anglican School in the Diocese of Grafton at Coffs Harbour. She has also been a member of Cathedral Chapter since 2020.

Her online biography said that during her time as chaplain Naomi has offered outstanding leadership within the school, as well as being a pastorally caring

priest. She has offered a genuinely creative

and inclusive ministry to the whole school community.

Before coming to Grafton Diocese, Naomi was Chaplain

New Grafton Anglican Dean named

at Trinity Anglican School and at MLC School in Sydney.

Canon Naomi is passionate about holding together the breadth of Anglicanism with respectful and robust diversity. She has been instrumental in the journey towards developing a Reconciliation Action Plan for the diocese and building reconciliation with First Nations communities. Naomi is also a member of the Ecumenical Relations Commission of General Synod of the Anglican Church of Australia. Her ministry incorporates Godly Play, Taize prayer, Prayer spaces, and labyrinth

reflections.

As Dean of Christ Church Cathedral Grafton, Canon Naomi has a vision for how the cathedral might shine its light as an inspiring gathering place for the wider community, with a ministry that embraces the liturgical legacy of the cathedral while also exploring innovative ways to connect with and serve the community.

She is excited about supporting and leading the Grafton cathedral parish’s commitment to compassionate action for the common good.

Her installation as Dean will take place at Christ Church Cathedral Grafton on Saturday, August 12 at 11am.

We’re Hiring Registered Nurses in Casino

The next Dean of Grafton will be the Reverend Canon Naomi Cooke. She will be installed at a ceremony in Christ Church Cathedral, Grafton on August 12 at 11am.

Council to act on pay rise dilemma

BY TIM HOWARD

Clarence Valley councillors have taken action against regulations which force them to ratify their pay rises through a council vote.

But before they did, they supported a recommendation to increase their pay by 3% for the next year.

At the May 23 council meeting councillors vented their frustration at s248 and s249 of the Local Government Act, which requires councillors to approve annual pay increases for mayors, deputy mayors and councillors.

After voting down a motion of from Cr Alison Whaites to refuse a 3% pay increase recommended by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal, councillors resolved to lodge a motion at the next Local Government NSW Association Annual Conference requesting the NSW Government review s248 and s249.

During debate on Cr Whaites motion, a number of councillors, including the mover, voiced their dismay at the need to vote themselves a pay rise.

“It makes me sick to the stomach that we’re the only people that have to vote for their own pay rise,” Cr Whaites said.

She said it caused her stress, divided the council and led to bullying on social media.

“But I did stand as a councillor saying I would not take a pay rise, not take the super

and I have no choice but to call this one again,” she said.

Cr Whaites call on all councillors to support her stand. She admitted the amount was “not much, $3.46 per day, less than a cup of coffee”.

She said the country was doing it tougher than 12 months ago, with 12 interest rate rises, cost of living increases and the introduction of new taxes and charges which will make life more difficult.

Cr Day’s sought to amend Cr Whaites motion with an appeal at the Local Government Association meeting, but Mayor Ian Tiley ruled it was a separate motion and Cr Day then called it as a foreshadowed motion.

Cr Greg Clancy opposed Cr Whaites’ motion.

He said council as a professional body needed to keep its remuneration up to date.

“It’s not noses in the trough,” he said. “I can understand its difficult for Cr Whaites and me to accept a rise, because it’s for ourselves.

“But I don’t see it as for ourselves. I see it as for councillors on Clarence Valley Council.

“Because the councillors we’ve got now won’t always be here and if we keep refusing reasonable increases, the remuneration will not keep up with the costs.”

Cr Clancy also dismissed the idea that the money saved on councillor wages would help the community.

“We’ve got to consider

the remuneration for councillors is not exorbitant and the regular increases are not something we should all see as unfair.”

Cr Jeff Smith said there was a contradiction in the council rules.

He noted sections in the Code of Conduct which warned councillors accepting gifts or money, but then councillors were allowed to vote for their own pay rises.

Cr Smith supported Cr Day’s view that there needed to be changes in the rules to avoid this occurring again.

“There’s something wrong where we have to vote yes or no for a pay rise,” he said.

“It should be set by the local government authority or someone, other than us.”

But he said he would honour his commitment he made when he joined council not to accept a pay rise and would vote against this one.

Cr Steve Pickering said it was “outrageous” the government put councillors into this position.

He argued councillors were just like other people, doing a job, undergoing training trying to make good decisions.

He said he used his council pay to pay staff to cover for him while he undertook council business and did not claim expenses, such as travel.

He noted CPI increases were between 5% and 7%, much less than the 3% offered to council.

Councillors were also

able to turn down the increases offered.

Cr Whaites said she liked the proposed motion from Cr Day and also said extra money would always b useful, but would honour her commitment to not accept a pay rise.

Councillors voted 6-3 against her motion, with Crs Whaites, Smith and Debrah Novak for it.

The council then debated a foreshadowed motion from Cr Karen Toms to accept the recommendation to receive a pay rise drawing a rare foray into debate from Cr Tiley, who sought to correct some “ill-informed commentary out there”.

“I work every day on council business, I work long hours,” he said. “A lot of it’s from home.

“In the life of this council I’ve never made one claim for travel, nor for sustenance, nor have I sought superannuation.

“This phone here is at my total cost, no remuneration from council. My computer works overtime, the internet is at my cost.

“When we contribute the hours we do each week and don’t claim … the remuneration we get is very ordinary.”

Council voted 6-3 for the pay rise.

Cr Day’s proposal to move a motion at the Local Government conference in October to get away review the relevant sections of the Local Government Act creating this problem was passed unanimously.

Clarence Valley councillors reluctantly voted for a pay rise at the last council meeting on May 23.

Councillor defends $40k legal bill

BY TIM HOWARD

A Clarence Valley councillor says a successful legal appeal against council that cost it more than $40,000 should be regarded as a success.

Cr Bill Day said the successful appeal against the council was not an “absolute victory” for the appellant.

He said he had moved the original motion of refusal for the DA and for reasons of transparency wanted to explain his reason and talk about the outcome.

“I did want to point out, despite the LEC accepted the DA, they amended the proposal to make it more compatible with the setbacks of surround properties and to reduce the amenity impacts on the surrounding properties,” he said.

“It wasn’t an absolute victory one way or the other.

“To challenge this sort of DA is not an easy thing to do. Not

something to do lightheartedly because the legal costs to the council are substantial, the legal costs slightly over $40,000 and then staff costs on top of that were about 70 hours of staff time as well.

“I did this because I think we ended up with a better development but certainly at a considerable cost to the council.

“I don’t think we need to apologise for that. To get better development there is a cost.

“It’s something we have to balance when we do so.”

Cr Toms had a different point of view to Cr Day.

She said the money and staff time spend on the matter were a cost to ratepayers that was hard to justify.

“I have much difficulty in accepting the fact that it’s a better outcome for our ratepayers,” she said.

“One of the reasons for refusal was for the neighbours’ objections and I was there are the

time when we did a site inspection.

“The councillors who refused it went up onto the verandah of the neighbour who actually objected and looked at the view across the neighbouring block, because his view straight out to the river was gone because of his planting.

“I just want to say you can’t always have a view from a neighbouring blocks and the five metres is a very expensive extra five metres setback.”

She doubted this was a good outcome for ratepayers, as providing the setback on a large block may have cost the developer an extra $50,000.

Cr Toms said it was a lesson learned and should encourage councillors to take a harder look at was permissible under development controls.

She said the council hired consultant engineers to defend its decision, because its own

staff had approved the development.

She said one consultant had not been able to defend the appeal, so had to find another expert who would.

“We need to understand what our role is as councillors,” Cr Toms said.

“This was an expensive lesson in my opinion.”

Cr Peter Johnstone said he agreed with the motion, but was not happy with Cr Toms’ commentary.

“I drew a completely different conclusion to Cr Toms,” he said.

“As a result of our efforts as councillors we have a better outcome.

“The outcome is a mediate outcome that was taken to the LEC as a mediated outcome as a better solution for the people next door and I would say for us as a council.”

Councillors voted unanimously to note the report of the legal costs to the council.

WILD WEATHER TRIGGERS NORTHERN RIVERS AND TANKS REFILL BEFORE EL NIÑO

was “notorious for this, and dangerous” during flash flooding events.

BY KATE COXALL

Residents affected by the catastrophic flood disaster of 2022 reported feeling triggered online, by the intense downpour that lasted 48 hours last Monday night through to Wednesday morning, with some casualties of flash flooding also reported.

The ute pictured, was swept off the 13th causeway, near Kohinur Hall in Upper Main Arm over the Monday night’s deluge, with local’s unable to confirm exactly what had happened to the driver, but confirmed the causeway in question

The Bureau of Meteorology (The Bureau) have reported between 50-150mm for the week, with the most rain falling in the furthest North of our region- Tweed Heads coast. Warnings for flash flooding were released by the Bureau and SES on Monday night as the rain was at its heaviest.

It has been predicted that the rest of the year however will likely see what has been deemed a “super” El Niño by some climatologists, where increased risks of bushfires due to higher temperatures and drier conditions may occur.

Residents on tank water may be thankful to have full tanks after last week’s deluge, but it may be an idea to be water wise going into the coming drier months ahead.

LISMORE AIRPORT TESTING GROUND FOR EMERGENCY SERVICE RESPONSE

LISTEN FOR LYREBIRDS IN TWEED

BY KATE COXALL

Last Wednesday morning, 24th May, residents and business owners will have heard the lights and sirens of an emergency action plan, across emergency response agencies including the NSW Police, NSW Fire Brigade, Rural Fire Service, NSW Ambulance, SES, Red Cross and Lismore City Council.

A Lismore City Council spokesperson said “It’s all part of Council’s ongoing commitment to safety and preparedness. The exercise aimed to test specific aspects of the Airports Emergency Plan.”

The primary goal was to coordinate these organisations in line with the Airport’s

Emergency Plan and assess the adequacy of the procedures and facilities provided.

Council’s Chief Operating Officer Brendan Logan said this important safety exercise emphasises the airport’s commitment to preparedness and emergency response.

“The exercise [was] designed to replicate a realistic scenario, enabling all agencies to showcase their response capabilities and ensure seamless coordination.

We are confident that this exercise will further enhance our emergency response capabilities,” he said. The exercise included activities such as ‘making safe’ procedures, simulated emergency egress, medical interventions and foam blanket

practice.

To create a realistic scenario, a Beechcraft Baron aircraft with simulated damage was used in the exercise. Actors and mannequins then simulated specific injuries.

The exercise took place on the airport runway, requiring a temporary closure for a period of three hours.

The emergency exercise is an essential component of Lismore Regional Airport’s commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards. The insights gained from this exercise will contribute to the continuous improvement of emergency response procedures, ensuring the safety of all airport users.

BY SARAH WATERS

In the lead up to winter, one of the Tweed’s rarest birds is in the spotlightthe Albert’s Lyrebird.

Tweed Shire Council launched its Lowland Lyrebird Links project in 2019 to help conserve the species and increase the condition and connectivity of Albert’s Lyrebird habitat.

Albert’s Lyrebird are mostly a grounddwelling bird that can only be found within a small area of far southeastern Queensland and north-eastern NSW.

The community are

asked to listen for the call of the Albert’s Lyrebird in May and June as part of Tweed Shire Council’s eightyear project to protect and map where the lyrebirds are in the Tweed.

Citizen science data can help with the local threatened species’ survival.

Albert’s Lyrebirds are much more often heard than seen.

Their calls can be heard echoing through the gullies of the last remaining pockets of lowland rainforest in the Tweed.

Their dawn chorus can be heard on winter mornings.

Lowland Lyrebird Links project has been funded by the NSW Environmental Trust Saving Our Species Contestable Grants program.

Join the ‘Listening for Lyrebirds’ project on the iNaturalist website or app to record your observations.

More information on the project, how to listen for Lyrebirds, and examples of their calls can be found on Council’s website.

using parliamentar y

The new Casino Ambulance station is now officially open. It is par t of a massive ambulance program from the previous Gover nment, which also delivered new stations for Evans Head and Iluka, a record increase in paramedics, better pay conditions and upgraded fleet.

An Albert’s Lyrebird captured on camera

SOLAR CITIZENS EVENT A HIT FOR NR TRANSITION TO EV’S

Diary of a Flood Survivor

BY SAMANTHA ELLEY

BY KATE COXALL

Lismore and Grafton residents were given the opportunity last week to head along to the Solar Citizens events, promoting Electric Vehicles, namely the big gap in the Australian market currently, the Electric Ute.

could move over to an electric vehicle to save on the hefty pump prices.

“People are aware of how much they can save by moving to electric vehicles, and while we aren’t driving around in the best ute, it is the first available on the Australian market, and is a 2WD ute more suited

of vehicles, including better models of EV Ute’s and better prices, is on the Fuel Efficiency Standards coming up for review, with submissions having closed yesterday, Wednesday 31st May.

“Fuel Efficiency Standards will give people the choice of more efficient, affordable

When we evacuated our house on Monday, February 28, 2022, we closed everything up and locked the house.

This also meant we left the garage door down.

Our neighbours were a little smarter, they left theirs up.

This means the water flowed through but the pressure if it didn’t buckle the door.

Our poor garage door now has a slight bow to it.

What this means is, instead of just replacing

the motor for the garage door to lift up and down, we actually have to replace the whole garage door.

An expensive lesson learnt.

As I write, we are waiting for the garage door people to turn up and replace it.

Since the house was built it has been a black door, but as with everything else we have replaced and renewed, we are trying something different.

We are going grey. I know, we’re such daredevils!

For those of us living in a flood prone area,

perhaps we should collectively gather all the wisdom we have learnt from last year and write a tip book.

Then we can keep our own copies and hand them out to anyone new who moves to the area. Make it part of a welcome pack.

While we obviously can’t stop future floods, maybe we can mitigate the stress and expense by doing little things to make it easier.

My first tip would be to keep the garage door open.

Little Steps

Solar Citizens spokesperson- Ajaya Haikerwal- Clean Transport Campaigner told us the events were well attended, by both those who are innovators and

to an inner city tradie or Electrician, or council workers and mining companies.”

“These Utes are released for the general public in addition to the larger corporate market” says

and diverse vehicles that are suitable for the regions – including the much-loved Aussie tradition of utes.”

“By touring an electric ute around Australia, our community campaign

heavily engaged in the “Electrify Everything Transition” conversation, and those who are curious about whether they

Ajaya, “but in limited supply due to the main policy lever”

The focus says Ajaya for Australians wanting to see more availability

is allowing regional communities and MPs see first-hand the many cost-saving benefits that electric vehicles can bring to the regions.”

It doesn’t look like it, but the garage door has a slight bow to it that will make it difficult to work properly when the motor is replaced.

TENTERFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY TO BE REVITALISED WITH NSW GOVERNMENT FUNDINGTEMPORARY CLOSURE ANNOUNCEMENT

Council asks for community feedback on draft budget

Tenterfield Public Library is set to undergo a significant revitalisation project and will be closing its doors at 5pm Friday 2 June 2023. The library will be closed for 7 weeks to complete the project and re-open on Monday 24 July 2023. Loans will be temporarily increased

to build your personal home library collection. The new library revitalization fit out has been designed to permit full space adaptability for different uses, allowing greater capacity for the library to host a range of public programs and events. The new fit out will involve

Lismore residents and ratepayers are encouraged to provide feedback on Lismore City Council’s Draft 2023/27 Delivery Program and Draft Operational Plan 2023/24, as well as supporting financial documents.

back to the June Council meeting for adoption. They can be found at the Your Say Lismore tab on Council’s website www. lismore.nsw.gov.au

a balanced budget, despite the high level of uncertainty caused by rapidly rising costs and high interest rates.

history.

to 50 items for members with a due date after the re-opening. Home library members services will continue as normal. Additionally, Library members have unlimited free access to an extensive range of digital resources through subscriptionbased services such as cloudLibrary NewsStand, Comics Plus, IndyReads, National Geographic Virtual Library, Borrow Box and many more. Drop in or call the library ahead of time for assistance or further information on accessing one of these fantastic digital resources. In preparation for the new-look library, a mega-book sale of ex-library books will be held on-site at the library for one week starting on Monday 29 May until Friday 2 June between 10:00am – 5:00pm. Don’t miss this rare opportunity

the upgrade of public area furnishings and include new shelving and flooring, additional study and breakout areas, relaxation seating, accessible height adjustable public computer desks, adaptable meeting and activity spaces and feature a new children’s section with special picture book shelving and include fun, child friendly tables and seating. To maintain the charming heritage architecture of the School of Arts building, the new fit-out does not involve any structural changes. The project has been funded by the State Government with $198K coming from the 2021/22 State Library NSW Public Library Infrastructure Grant Program. Councillors and library staff look forward to welcoming our community back to the ‘new look’ library in July with improved functionality to access library services.

Lismore City Councillors last night voted to place the documents on Public Exhibition until 16 June when they will come

The Program and Plan sets out the projects, services and activities Council will provide to the community, how much they will cost and when they will be delivered.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said Council was determined to develop

Get your green thumb on at Lennox

“I’m happy that we have delivered a budget with a slight net cash surplus of $205,000,” he said.

“Councillors are very aware that our community is doing it tough, particularly as we continue to recover from the worst natural disaster in Australia’s recorded

“That is why we have purposefully kept any rises in rates, fees or charges below the rate of inflation of 7.8 per cent.

“And importantly, we now also have a viable four-year plan and a Long-Term Financail Plan. I am optimistic that if we are disciplined and stick to these plans, we will finally be on the path to financial sustainability.”

Ballina/Byron Airport overlay starting soon

After a four-year hiatus, the annual Lennox Head Community Tree Planting Daywill return on Friday 9 June 2023. Community members plant native seedlings of littoral rainforest species to restore what was once present on the

headland pre-1800s.

Since the event’s inception in 2003, more than 13,000 seedlings have been planted by 1,650 volunteers.

Everyone is invited to join at the top of Lennox headland from 9am to 12noon.

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport is set to commence a major maintenance project known as the Runway Overlay Project 2023.

This project involves an asphalt overlay to the existing runway surface, and the installation of grooves into the finished surface. The runway lighting system will also undergo a significant upgrade to a more efficient LED lighting system.

These maintenance

works will extend the runway’s lifespan by up to 10 years.

The main runway overlay works will commence Monday 5 June and continue through to late July 2023 (weather permitting). During this time, the runway will be closed to normal operations from 9pm each evening to 5.50am the following morning. Visit the airport website for more information.

2023 NEW ZEALAND SOUTH ISLAND GARDENS GROUP TOUR

Departure Date: 31 October 2023

$6,700 per person Single Supplement - $1,600

This 12 day Garden tour on New Zealand’s South Island will have you enjoying all the best that the South Island has to offer. The must do things when visiting the South Island plus the must see gardens are all included and then some more on this fantastic tour. Sit back and travel in comfort, everything taken care of with this small group.

Price Includes:

• Home pick up and drop-off from the Northern Rivers

• Return airfares from including taxes

• 11 Nights quality accommodation with breakfast daily

• 6 dinners and 2 lunches

• Visit 5 exquisite gardens including Larnach Castle & Gardens

• TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Walter Peak Evening Dining

• TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Greymouth

• Air conditioned buses throughout

• All sightseeing entry fees per itinerary

A travel back in time shows true test of character

Title: Test of Wills

Author: Deborah Goldie

Publisher: Shawline

Publishing Price: $22.95

By Samantha Elley

ere were two things in life Will loved. ey were playing AFL, and the stories his grandfather, also named Will, would share with him about his time in a Hitler Youth Camp during World War Two.

One night a er contracting a bad virus, his mother puts him to bed with a hot chocolate. When he wakes up, he is in 1942 and entering the same Hitler Youth Camp his grandfather had entered.

In fact, he has taken on the role of his grandfather as a young boy and soon discovers the di culties he had

Mad Dog Boxing visited by Athol McQueen

experienced in that time.

He remembers his grandfather telling him of the night of the ‘great escape’ where he and a friend had tried to help a young Jewish family. e ending was a not a happy one for his grandfather and Will decides that he will complete the task the older Will was unable to nish.

It will mean being hunted by the and experiencing the full force of the German army.

Test of Wills is Deborah Goldie’s rst published novel and is based loosely on the life of her grandfather, who was part of a Hitler Youth Camp in World War Two.

She has worked with children for over 20 years and is a passionate advocate for teaching them important events and time in history.

You can order your copy from shawlinepublishing. com.au

BY SAMANTHA ELLEY

It was our last article on local gym Mad Dog Boxing and the achievements of some of its boxers, that caught the eye of legendary Olympic boxing competitor Athol McQueen.

Before he knew what was happening, coach and owner of the gym, Scott Smith, received a call from Mr McQueen.

“He liked what we were doing and wanted to meet the fighters and visit the gym,” said Scott.

“I told a few people that I wanted to have there, not expecting

“Before I knew it, there were 40 people.

new barbeque for the event as well.”

Mr McQueen and his wife Gloria shared their time and words of wisdom to the young boxers leaving behind a set of signed gloves from the Commonwealth Games and a picture of ‘Smokin’ Joe’ Frazier, gold medallist at the 1964 Olympic games. Also, the man who defeated Mr McQueen for the gold medal.

MAFS star Natasha Green (nee Spencer) was also there with her new husband, Garry Green.

“They gave us $1,000 towards a new (boxing) ring for the gym,” said Scott.

such a family vibe.”

The gym continues to grow to a point that Scott joked he may need to take on another trainer.

“I think there is a renewed interest in boxing,” he said.

“We have our own Sunny McLean from Woodburn who just got named as part of the NSW State of Origin Boxing team, where he’ll be fighting the Queensland team in Brisbane on June 24.”

Scott said anyone is welcome to come to the gym.

many people as it was a Wednesday night.

“A mate of mine brought around a brand

“They said the place looked amazing and had

On Tuesday nights, there is also a girls’ boxing class. You can contact him on 0410 538 744.

Some of the girls with MAFS star Natasha Green (nee Spencer), second from right.

Signed boxing gloves from Athol McQueen.

The Mad Dog Boxing crew with Athol McQueen (centre)

Former Tweed Shire Deputy Mayor remembered for service to community

BY SARAH WATERS

Former Tweed Shire Councillor George Davidson OAM has been remembered as a passionate advocate for the Tweed.

Mr Davidson passed away in Brisbane recently, where he has lived in recent years following 16 years of community involvement in the Tweed. He was 85.

Mr Davidson received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division in 2010 for his service to the Tweed community through a range of local government, sporting and veterans’ organisations.

Mr Davidson served the Tweed as a Councillor from 1999 to 2004.

He was Deputy Mayor in 2002 and 2003.

He was active in the Tweed Coast community in particular and was president of the Cabarita Beach/ Bogangar Residents’ Association from 1997 to 1999.

Mr Davidson will also be remembered by many for his role as chairman of the Cabarita Beach Sports Club for a number of years in the 1990s.

Current Councillor Warren Polglase served

on Council with Mr Davidson.

“George was very professional in his dealings in local government, reliable and sincere, with a good sense of humour,” Mr Polglase said.

“He supported growth and opportunities at that time.

“He also strongly lobbied for improvements to Les Burger Field at Bogangar and was instrumental in its rejuvenation and the facility we see there today.”

Former Tweed Shire

Have your say on the future of Shaws Bay

Ballina Shire Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on the future management of Shaws Bay in East Ballina.

A Coastal Zone Management Program (CZMP) was prepared for Shaws Bay in 2015 and has been extremely successful, with most actions now completed.

“Council has progressively implemented the Shaws Bay CZMP actions, which have included addressing bank erosion, improving access and amenity, saltmarsh habitat creation, dredging and environmental monitoring,” said Council’s Manager Public and Environmental Health, Kerri Watts.

“Feedback from the community on work completed to date has been extremely positive, and we have seen a huge increase in recreational use of the bay.”

Council General Manager Mike Rayner, who was Director of Engineering during Mr Davidson’s time as a Councillor, remembered Mr Davidson as a committed Councillor.

“George was a great supporter of the Council organisation,” Mr Rayner said.

“His OAM was fitting public recognition of the contribution he made to community life in the Tweed.”

Mr Davidson’s funeral was held at Tweed Valley Lawn Chapel, Eviron Road, Eviron on Monday, May 29.

Due to changes in legislation, and the growing need to address issues such as climate change, Shaws Bay will be the focus of a new Coastal Management Program (CMP), with funding assistance from the NSW Government’s Coastal and Estuary Grants Program.

Council will transition the existing Shaws Bay Coastal Zone Management Plan into a Coastal Management Program in accordance with the Coastal Management Act 2016 and the NSW Government Coastal Management Framework. Ballina-based Hydrosphere Consulting has been appointed to develop the first stage of the Program, including a Scoping Study. The Scoping Study will review work undertaken to date, consult

with the community, and provide a clear path to implement future stages of the Coastal Management Program.

“There is a lot of public interest in this iconic waterway,” said Ms Watts.

“Council is very

keen to ensure the new program meets public needs and allows for ongoing maintenance and improvements into the future.”

“Community input to the Scoping Study is critical to capture feedback and to inform future management priorities.”

Community members can have their say via a survey that is now open at Your Say Ballina. Submissions will close Friday 14 July 2023.

Residents can also drop

a pin on the map tool to highlight areas they want to see protected, maintained, or improved; and they can ask questions of the project team.

“There are a lot of different views on what the management priorities at

Shaws Bay should be,” said Hydrosphere Consulting’s Managing Director, Mick Howland.

“Our job is to provide a well thought out program that meets the community’s expectations and will be eligible for future stategovernment funding. We have an open mind, and we are genuinely encouraging feedback and suggestions from the public.”

To get involved visit yoursayballina.com. au/shaws-bay-coastalmanagement-program

Shaws Bay showing expanded beach on eastern shoreline.

Photo credit: Hydrosphere Consulting

Shaws Bay showing expanded beach and new picnic shelters at Pop Denison Park. Photo credit: Hydrosphere Consulting

Former Tweed Shire Councillor George Davidson OAM.

OFFICIAL OPENING OF NEW CASINO AMBULANCE STATION

Grafton Waterfront Precinct nearing completion

Richie Williamson pictured with members of the Casino United Hospital Auxiliary along with local paramedics, Mikaela Moulle & Laura Belfanti and former Clarence MP Chris Gulaptis, and local paramedics, Mikaela (in vehicle) and Laura pose for a photo during a recent event to mark the completion of works on the new Ambulance Station. Mr Williamson is unable to attend the official opening on Tuesday due to NSW Parliament sitting.

The official opening of the new Casino Ambulance Station tomorrow, May 30 crowns a 12-year period of The Nationals in the former NSW Government delivering key infrastructure for the Richmond and Clarence Valleys, according to local Nationals MP, Richie Williamson.

“This a really important health asset for Casino and conveniently located right next to the local hospital,” Mr Williamson said.

“I know how much this new ambulance station means to the local community and I am thrilled we were able to deliver this important piece of health infrastructure.

“I want to thank

my friend Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow whose enthusiastic cooperation ensured this state-of-the-art health facility was delivered efficiently and on time.”

A massive ambulance program from the previous Government also delivered new stations for Evans Head and Iluka, a record increase in paramedics and better pay conditions and upgraded fleet.

Mr Williamson said the new Casino Station includes internal parking for up to six emergency ambulance vehicles, staff rest facilities, administration and office areas, logistics and storage areas, an internal wash bay and staff parking.

“The last State Government brought us the multi-billion dollar Pacific Highway upgrade, the new Grafton Bridge, locking into the NSW Budget the massive upgrade of Grafton Base Hospital, and so much more” Mr Williamson said.

“As I said in my first speech to Parliament, I am keen to work with the Labor Government on behalf of locals to ensure infrastructure delivery for the Richmond and Clarence Valley continues.”

The community will soon be able to reap the benefits of the Grafton Waterfront Precinct project. The $6.5 million

Precinct will soon be open for our whole community to enjoy,”

Clarence Valley Council General Manager Laura

Grafton as a river city.”

Equal and universal access has been a priority of the project, with wheelchair and stair access to the riverbank at multiple locations from the top of the levee wall. The remaining works to be completed include building the arrival plazas and adding the finishing touches to the access stairs and ramps at Duke Street and Clarence Street, as well as completion of landscaping in and around these structures.

• Check out the Grafton Waterfront Masterplan here

Federal Government funded project is now in the final stages and is set to be ready for the public to enjoy in the coming weeks.

The project will provide improved access

along the water’s edge, and plenty of shade, seating and lighting to encourage people to use the riverside landscape.

“It is very exciting to announce that the Grafton Waterfront

Black said.

“As a significant project within the Clarence River Masterplan, it will transform the riverbank into a bustling hub of activity and redefine

• Check out the Clarence River Masterplan II here

• Design of Grafton Waterfront lookout point explained

Removed from the original scope of works and currently under design are fully accessible amenities inclusive of a Changing Place, making Grafton one of about 250 locations across Australia providing people with disability and high support needs access to suitable, safe and private bathroom facilities. We thank the community for their continued patience while this exciting and important project is completed.

to the north bank of the Clarence River at Grafton with a 700m long, 3m wide shared user path meandering

The access ramp from the top of the levee wall at Duke Street to the waterfront is in the final stages of construction.

An artistic shade-covered viewing platform is one of the focal points of the Grafton Waterfront Precinct.

Seating and lighting has been installed along the shared user path to encourage people to utilise the landscaped waterfront.

REMAGINE ART PRIZE 2023 WINNER ANNOUNCED

People with disability are invited to join a unique photography project

The winner of the Remagine Art Prize 2023 has been announced, with Canberra glass artist Jennifer Kemarre Martiniello taking out the first prize of $5,000 for her sculpture, Not Wasted, made from recycled television screens. Of Arrernte (Australian Central Desert), Chinese and Anglo-Celtic descent, Martiniello embraces 60,000 years of Indigenous Australian culture through her identity and the medium of glass.

“This work illustrates my caretaker roles of taking care of Country and shattering silences around dominant culture taboo about speaking openly about death. This is a self-portrait illustrating my journey through lung cancer and subsequent metastatic brain tumours,” said Martiniello.

“It is also about taking care of Country despite being an urban-based First Nations artist who has used various forms of western technology which contemporary society discards, with no clue as to what harm it may cause to the ‘Mother’ who nurtures us.”

The annual Remagine Art Prize is hosted by Hornsby Shire Council in partnership with Hornsby Art Society. This competition challenges artists to create works in response to the crisis we are all facing with waste and over-consumption. The theme for this year was ‘Wasteland or Wonderland’, referring to the decisions that we make each day about how much waste we create.

Kyogle-based painter Ross Tamlin was named runner up, winning $3,000 in prize money for his painting, Scrap Metal.

“I am an artist who has been recycling waste house and industrial paint, using it in my paintings for years. I was inspired to do a painting of the scrap metal I had seen on a recent trip to the local tip and was amazed by the

massive pile of industrial and household waste,” said Tamlin.

Talented Hornsby photographer Orlando Luminere collected the Local Artist Award and a $1,000 prize for his photograph, Wasteful Photography.

Claire Engkaninan Low from Kirribilli secured the Recycled/Reused Materials Award and $1,000 in prize money for her painting on a discarded skateboard, All Monsters Are Real. Kiacatoo’s mosaic artist Kelly MacKey was also acknowledged in this category, with a Highly Commended by the judges.

Mt. Victoria’s Scott Collins won the Youth Award (16-21 years) and $750 in prize money for his artwork, Ethereal Wasteland.

Hornsby Shire Mayor Philip Ruddock praised the finalists for their inspiring artworks.

“Congratulations to these worthy winners of the Remagine Art Prize. These artists have expressed their passion for sustainability and the environment through each of these unique, thoughtprovoking works. Council remains committed to preserving our natural environment for generations to come. This year’s theme emphasised how we can all play a part in reducing waste and living more sustainably,”

Mayor Ruddock said.

The respected panel of judges for 2023 was Australian contemporary artist, Leila Jeffreys, curator Nick Vickers, and John Cheeseman, Director of Mosman Art Gallery.

Art lovers can visit the 2023 Remagine Art Prize finalist exhibition at Wallarobba Arts and Cultural Centre, 25 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby until Sunday, 4 June 2023. Tuesday to Sunday, 10am - 4pm. Free entry.

For further details, visit hornsby.nsw.gov.au/ remagine.

People with disability are invited to join a unique photography project

Northern Rivers people with disability are invited to take part in a photography project designed to capture their experience of the world and give others more understanding of living with disability.

Photovoice is a five-week photography workshop-project led by not-for-profit organisation, Social Futures – an NDIS partner in the community.

Social Futures Capacity Building and Engagement Manager Lynda Hope describes Photovoice as a form of photographic storytelling.

“Photovoice explores the concept of ‘disability pride’ and each week participants take a photo connected to a theme that helps them express how they feel. The topics the group will discuss include ‘I love being me because…’, ‘inclusion’, ‘courage’ and ‘pride’,” Ms Hope said.

“Photovoice will be run online, so all participants need is a smart phone or a camera, and the Zoom video chat app.

“And you don’t even need to be particularly creative to participate. You just need to be comfortable talking and sharing in a small group. You will also have the chance to make new

friends.

“We will teach you how to use your smart phone or camera with tips and tricks on taking great photos. And you will need a willingness to learn more about yourself and to share with others.”

“Every week participants will then share their photos illustrating that theme and then explain their photo. We do this as a group.

“People will feel supported and safe to explore their thoughts, feelings and perspectives about topics relating to disability that aren’t usually talked about.”

You can learn more about Photovoice by watching this video on the Social Futures

website: https:// socialfutures.org.au/ service/photovoiceshare-the-world-throughyour-eyes/ Ms Hope said she wanted to organise a community exhibition of the photos participants were happy to share.

“Thought-provoking photos show the reality of the participants’ lives to the community – they illuminate challenges, celebrate triumphs and hopefully encourage the broader community to have a deeper understanding of the lives of people with disability and the issues that affect them,” she said.

If you are aged 18 years or older and interested in being part of Photovoice – Disability Pride groups

Artist’s Statement

Half a brain

Perseverance and persistence, relearnt how to knit.

A brain beanie was created to reflect my brain injury The righthand side of the beanie is grey with outlines of the different parts of my brain

This has now become the mascot of the charity I am currently involved in.

Artist’s Statement “Gaslit”

You’re being too sensitive…

Get over it…

C’mon its not that bad… Harden up…

The world doesn’t revolve around you… Some things are not as obvious as a ramp or cane.

I suffer in silence and sit in shame.

Noises razor sharp and I struggle to breathe.

Someone just listen to me please.

I take pride in who I am I take pride in what I can create

One of my creations is QuackStar who is a creative magical duck with magical rainbow wings

He takes pride in bringing hope, love and magic to the world

We can all take pride in who we are

with Social Futures, call 1800 522 679 or email lac@socialfutures.org.au

Artist’s Statement “Gaslit”

You’re being too sensitive… Get over it…

C’mon its not that bad… Harden up…

The world doesn’t revolve around you…

Some things are not as obvious as a ramp or cane.

I suffer in silence and sit in shame.

Noises razor sharp and I struggle to breathe.

Someone just listen to me please.

Creative competitors have their chance to shine

BY SAM ELLEY

Neither worldwide pandemic nor recordbreaking flood could keep the Lismore Eisteddfod down.

Despite an absence of three years, the Eisteddfod has returned.

“We lost everything in the Lismore flood - 114 years of written history and irreplaceable

be repaired or replaced.

“This included the restoration of our perpetual trophies and the replacement of our display cabinets.

“These had been on display in the Lismore Library, which suffered severe flood damage.

“We have also purchased new choir rises which were previously stored in the Lismore City Hall

to look further afield, even outside Lismore in the case of the Schools Competition.

The Eisteddfod is now putting out a call for all competitors.

“Is your talent in song or dramatic performances? Perhaps you play the piano, or one of the string, woodwind or brass instruments,” said Ms Stevenon.

“Does your performance joy come through dance - ballet, song and dance, hip-hop, tap, jazz or troupe? Or the fun and excitement of Primary and Secondary School performances?

“The Lismore Eisteddfod is your opportunity to step out onto a stage and showcase your talent.”

Ms Davies connection to the Lismore Eisteddfod is through her mother, Thelma Turner, who competed in the Lismore Musical Festival in 1925 and was subsequently offered a scholarship to study at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

Marriage to Harry Graeme and the birth of two daughters followed. Thelma Graeme - now her professional name - continued with her musical career and remained in the music world for the rest of her life.

Howlett have stepped forward to support the Lismore Eisteddfod.

Resonator Music in Ballina and Planet Music in Lismore are providing the awards and Lismore High School,

September in the Civic Hall in Casino.

The Northern Rivers Conservatorium in Lismore will host the Speech and Drama, and Vocal and Instrumental Competitions from 2 - 8

memorabilia,” said organiser Yvonne Stevenson.

“Fortunately, through a flood relief grant, we were reimbursed for equipment which had to

along with computer and speakers.”

While the regular competition venues were severely damaged due to the flood, the organisation has had

Ms Stevenson said the fact the 2023 Eisteddfod was going ahead was in no small part to their patron, Margot Davies.

“Margot approached us last year, offering her assistance to get the Lismore Eisteddfod up and running,” she said.

To honour her mother’s musical career beginning in Lismore, Margot Davies has established the Thelma Graeme Perpetual Award for a female singer 16 years and over.

“The winner will receive a perpetual Trophy and $500 to be used for voice advancement and/or tuition.”

Local sponsors Sackett and Weir and Murray

The Northern Rivers Conservatorium and the Richmond Valley Council have assisted with venues.

“We would love to hear from any potential sponsors – be it monetary, offering awards, or assisting at competition venues,” said Ms Stevenson. Schools Competitions will be held from 28 August until 1

September.

The Dance Competitions will commence on 23 September and continue until 6 October at the Lismore High School Campus auditorium. Competition schedules are available on their website: lismoreeisteddfod.com. au or call the secretary for further information on 0427 404383.

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

Celebrating 100 Years of

BY SAM ELLEY

As my state of health is improving, ‘Mum Jane’ said I could ‘paw’ my words for myself this week, but that she would be on standby for me if needed. It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ back. Oooh, truly, the past weeks have been most troublesome, both for ME, and for Mum. I believe this is ‘cos she’s an old woman. She frets & stresses about me constantly. (Which in cat thinking means she totally loves and adores me, goodie?) I DID ask her NOT to stress ‘cos ‘I’ sense her tension. So, she started singing to help. OMG! ( e choices I have are truly horrendous!)

Mum reckons she’s aged many years since I became unwell but says there is a light of the end of it all and it’s positive. Ooooh, I do pray this is true. is time last week I had one of those mystical intuitive ‘cat-mind feelings’ that Mum was about to call an Undertaker for me, weeping & wailing all at once. is lled me with much concern, as her state of mind has been as such that she probably would have got it wrong and called for a bloke with an Excavator. She hasn’t been going to or doing CWA stu which is not good ‘cos I know she loves CWA. Anyhow, let me tell you what’s been going on. I now have to eat new food on advice from the Vet. It is ‘sposed to help my condition, and I also take medicine twice daily. Whilst Mum has said ZILCHO to me about

the cost of this new food, I’ve heard her talking to one of her Sisters and saying this new food is 2+ times the cost of the food she is accustomed to buying me. AND, I JUST KNOW, the next thing to happen in our house (when I am totally well) will be a Budget Strategy Meeting relating to the $$ Old Aged Pensioners and everyone have to nd to feed their Companion Animals. Crikey, I just can’t wait!! (NOT!!) But wait, there’s more. One would THINK that in my poor state of health whilst resting on my best Plush Blue Blankie in Mum’s chair, I would be allowed to watch episodes of ‘Bluey’ ALL DAY long. NUP, guess what? Mum decided it would be best for my recovery to put a 24/7 thingie on our TV. It has sounds of running water and harp music with pictures of a most cutesy sleepy kitten dri ing o to sleep, waking up again then dri ing o again? I tell you, a cat of my intelligence needs more than this to stimulate my brain and help me to get better?

(Like Mum reading me

“THE HISTORY OF CLEOPATRA’S CAT”).

I’m starting to resent that cutesy kitten quite frankly but also know it is really not to blame. Hmmm?

I have more to tell you, Mum has an amazing and lovely friend called ‘JP’. She came to our house last Sunday and ‘talked to me’ in many soothing ways, with her hands ‘around’ me (not ON me) and so words and stu . I felt calm for the rst time in days, ‘cos Mum’s own stress has been radiating to me and making ME stressed. ‘JP’ sent Mum outside so she could focus on me. I truly felt much more relaxed a er her visit, and have since slowly started feeling more like myself. Mind you, Mum & I did have a ni y time yesterday. We played Laser Light chasing and it was so much fun.

To-day, though, I feel a ‘teensy’ bit tired & unwell but nowhere as poorly as I was 2 weeks ago so both Mum and I decided WE will both try hard not to stress or worry. (I also so pray Mum will stop singing her appalling songs!) So loving purrsies, Leemo.

Swimming lessons in the creek, riding horses to school, running around barefoot in the playground, Empire Day celebrations.

These are the memories of staff and students over the last hundred years of Larnook Public School.

Opened in 1922, members of the community will be gathering on June 10 to celebrate the little school’s centenary.

Steve Clough was principal at the school from 2004, where he was relieving, then took on the permanent role in 2005 and stayed until his retirement in 2018.

“It was a two teacher school with an enrolment anywhere from 27 children up to 49,” said Mr Clough.

“Classes were broken up into K-2 then 3-6.”

During his time as

“We lived close to the school, so would go home for lunch,” she said.

“We had swimming lessons in the creek,

Betty said the school was a lovely place, with a mix of Italian and Australian students at that time.

“Everyone got on really

students increased, so that’s when they brought in demountables.

“The current office was the old schoolroom.”

Mabel Adams believes

principal, Mr Clough said Larnook became part of the Big Scrub program.

“This is where the 12 small schools in the area, including Blakebrook, Caniaba, Coffee Camp and Corndale and Wian Wian had special days where we got together and went on excursions,” he said.

“The end of year concert was big. Every two years we would do a whole school concert.

“One year we did Mary Poppins and another year it was Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”

Betty Bressan went to Larnook from 1961 to 1967 and was one of the three Volpatti sisters.

where our fathers would clean it of debris and weeds until they declared it safe.

“Then our mums would come and be the

well,” she said.

“There was no such thing as bullying as we were all equal.

“When I left in 1967, there were only 15

she is the oldest student still living, as she started at Larnook school in 1945, the year she turned seven.

“There were 15 children and the teacher when I started,” she said.

“My best friend was Ellen Donodel and even though she was only at the school for a year, she is still my best friend today.

“She was my bridesmaid and I was her matron of honour.”

Mabel remembers riding her horse to and from school each day.

There was a horse paddock opposite the school where the horses would be left.

life savers and safety officers.

“Bullrush stings were the worst things that happened.”

students but by the time of the Aquarius festival, many came into the area and bought property.

“The numbers of

“One day I was riding home from school and I got into a cantering race with one of the boys,” she said.

“Then my saddle slipped right off the horse.

JUST ONE “+” DAY AT A TIME for LEEMO

Larnook Public School

“I spent a week at home and my mother had to walk the three miles to the school to tell them I wouldn’t be coming.”

Learning to write was done with pencil on special books with blue lines for small letters and red lines for capital letters.

“It was like call ith a softish pencil, then pen and ink. The pen was a nib at the end of a wooden piece and we had ink wells in the

desk.”

Betty said she had been looking forward to using the nib and ink, but biros were introduced to students by then.

Both ex-students remember the end of school Christmas concerts and their athletics carnivals.

“Empire Day was celebrated in the school,” said Betty.

“Children put on performances and the parents came to watch

and would bring a plate.”

Mabel remembers one particular Christmas concert where they performed a play called ‘Santa Claus comes down the chimney’.

“A lot was going on as we were making props and another girl and I were the two main actors,” she said.

“When Santa Claus was to come out of the chimney we weren’t supposed to laugh.

“But when we saw

those two legs come down, we both burst out laughing.

“I still got a prize for best actress that year.”

Neither of the students remember wearing uniforms. In fact, they were lucky to be wearing shoes.

“We had sandals but a lot of the country boys just turned up with bare feet,” said Betty. Both ladies will be attending the June 10 celebrations at the

school.

“Everything was like a best memory,” said Mabel of her time at Larnook school.

“This school has been really something to me.”

Larnook Public School is calling for memorabilia and photos to display at their June 10 event, which starts at 10am at the school, 1282 Cawongla Road, Larnook.

The official opening will be at 10.30am

with morning tea and a small selection of lunch sandwiches for a gold coin donation.

Coffee cart and Amici Italian food van will be available, as will souvenirs for sale. Please bring cash as eftpos can be unreliable and please RSVP to help with catering.

For further information or to provide memories, call 6688 0133 or email larnookcentenary@ gmail.com.

ARGUABLY, one of the most impressive, albeit truly irrepressible traits that any of us can display is decency, even the very mention of the word itself seems to evoke a tsunamilike wave of positive emotion. As such, not too many things we could ever possibly do, eclipse the things we actually do through the inclination of decency.

In his era, if not broader century-defining novel The Plague (which was an allegory of the Nazi occupation of France in WWII), Albert Camus inserted the unbuckling notion, “It may seem a ridiculous idea, but the only way to fight the plague is with decency.” Time and time again throughout history, it is decency and not the degenerate misuse of power and might by menial spirits, that has prevailed.

As the American Congressman and qualified attorney Raja Krishnamoorthi once refreshingly said, “When the norm is decency, other virtues can thrive: integrity, honesty, compassion, kindness, and trust.” Like a wise old taskmaster that knows no other way than leading from the front, albeit clearing the way for all to follow: decency is the deep, regarding harbinger of everything that is admirable and most praiseworthy in the behaviour of any human being.

One of my personal favourite examples occurred in 2018 when the still current Dutch PM, Mark Rutte (who was also the second youngest PM to be elected in Netherlands history) personally cleaned up one heck of a mess caused by him spilling a full cup of coffee while entering parliament. In front of five

Dawe

Emergency exercise to test Lismore Regional Airport’s emergency plan

ready-to-pounce cleaners and an absolute entourage of aides; Rutte grabbed a mop and proceeded to clean up after himself. While the act in itself isn’t groundbreakingly notable, the gesture, and effect it had on those present reflects the true essence and social value of decency.

Relatedly, as Chris Ernest Nelson once suggested, “Our greatest social responsibility is to demonstrate to all others how to live in this world of hunger, sorrow, and injustice with generosity, dignity, and decency.”

Evidently three virtues that distinguish people who put the plights, concerns and considerations of others, if not above their own, at least on an equal par so as to grant the greatest gift of all – respect in the form of unconditional awareness reinforced by a deep appreciation of others.

If being mindful and courteous (which is basically all decency is) is not something that comes naturally to you, then heeding a few pointers made by the Russian literary icon, Anton Chekov might help. In 1886 he reflected on criteria that defined decent people, “They respect human beings as individuals and are therefore always tolerant, gentle, courteous and amenable... They have compassion for other people besides beggars and cats… They are not devious, and they fear lies as they fear fire… Civilized people don’t put on airs; they behave in the street as they would at home.”

So, whether you are in the street or just pottering about the house, make decency the trait that clearly defines and refines what you do every step of the way.

Don’t be surprised if you hear and see lots of sirens and flashing lights at the Lismore Regional Airport on Wednesday morning - it may seem like a life-threatening emergency, but it’s not. It’s all part of an important emergency exercise as part of Council’s ongoing commitment to safety and preparedness. The exercise will take place on the airport runway on Wednesday, 24 May from 10am to 1 pm and

Have your say on design of new shared path for Raftons Road, Bangalow Council is designing a new shared path on Raftons Road in Bangalow and is seeking input from the community on two options proposed.

The new shared path will run along Raftons Road from Rifle Range Road to the existing footpath opposite 19 Leslie Street, Bangalow.

The purpose of the new path is to create a safe and accessible alternative transport

aims to test specific aspects of the Airports Emergency Plan. Involvement is required from several emergency agencies, including the NSW Police, NSW Fire Brigade, Rural Fire Service, NSW Ambulance, SES and Lismore City Council. The primary goal is to coordinate these organisations in line with the Airport’s Emergency Plan and assess the adequacy of the procedures and facilities

route for the local community. It will link residences with the local Community Children’s Centre, businesses, workplaces, schools and services.

“We have narrowed it down to two options for this shared path –option one is on the northern side of the street and option two is in the verge on the southern side for most of the route,” Council’s Director Infrastructure Phil Holloway said.

“There was a third option on the northern side of the street but it

provided.

Council’s Chief Operating Officer Brendan Logan said this important function emphasises the airport’s commitment to preparedness and emergency response.

“The task is designed to replicate a realistic scenario, enabling all agencies to showcase their response capabilities and ensure seamless coordination. We are confident that this will further enhance

involved removing koala habitat gum trees so that option has already been ruled out.

“We’re asking the community to go to the Your Say page on our website or come into Council to see what is proposed and tell us what you think is the best option and why,” he said.

“There are pros and cons with both options with some parking needing to be removed,” he said.

“Once we have community input we can finish the design

our emergency response capabilities,” he said. The exercise will include activities such as ‘making safe’ procedures, simulated emergency egress, medical interventions, and foam blanket practice.

To create a realistic scenario, a Beechcraft Baron aircraft with simulated damage will be used in the exercise. Actors and mannequins will simulate specific injuries.

process and apply for the funding needed to make it happen,” Mr Holloway said.

You can have your say on the two options proposed for the Raftons Road Shared Path Project until Friday 9 June, 2023.

The design phase of this project has been made possible thanks to $50,000 funding from the NSW Government’s 2022/23 Get NSW Active program and investment from Byron Shire Council.

An Improved Regional Jobs Platform for the Northern Rivers HERITAGE PARK LANDSCAPE MASTERPLAN ON EXHIBITION

A draft Landscape Masterplan for Mullumbimby’s muchloved Heritage Park is on exhibition.

The purpose of the draft masterplan is to provide some direction for the future development and layout of the park which meanders along the bank of the Brunswick River.

to infrastructure, like the playground and pathways, are accessible and able to be used by everyone in the community.

Healthy North Coast and Training Services

NSW to rollout the next evolution of the regional jobs platform – Jobs Northern Rivers.

On Tuesday 23 May, a rebranded jobs platform went live with a new technology provider.

We are proud to launch the Jobs Northern Rivers platform which can be accessed on the web via https:// jobsnorthernrivers.com. au.

Since launching in July 2020, the regional jobs platform initiative has achieved some key outcomes in engagement with the Northern Rivers employment market. This market included a range of jobseekers (such as school leavers, youth, displaced workers), employers in many industries (including agribusiness, primary health care, manufacturing, hospitality, and construction) and training service providers (including community colleges, registered

high priority for RDA

Northern Rivers and this new platform is integral to achieving this”, says Chair of RDA Northern Rivers, Don Page Nathan McGrath, RDA Northern Rivers Director of Regional Development said, “Providing a platform that automates regional job advertisements while also giving local employers access to the jobseeker market is one way we can support workforce planning in the Northern Rivers.”

The NRRC recently outlined a $7.9 billion pipeline of infrastructure projects that will require a surge in workforce capacity to support reconstruction efforts on the Northern Rivers after the 2022 floods.

Platforms like Jobs Northern Rivers could help with the recruitment of hundreds of workers including builders, civil contractors, geo tech engineers, project managers and other professional services.

“With that $7.9 billion

currently,” NRRC Chief Executive David Witherdin said.

“It is really about government working collaboratively with partners like RDA Northern Rivers to deliver that and bring the skills here.”

Healthy North Coast Chief Executive, Monika Wheeler, said her organisation was keen to support Jobs Northern Rivers and had contributed $50,000 to the initiative, funded through the Australian Government’s North Coast Primary Health Network program.

- 2 -

“We see Jobs Northern Rivers as supportive workforce strategy to attract health professionals to the region and promote the benefits of living and working in our attractive, yet still recovering, regional communities,” Ms Wheeler said.

“Our contribution is part of our broader flood recovery package for Northern Rivers primary

and allied health providers,” Ms Wheeler said.

The new platform, Jobs Northern Rivers, leverages an automated jobs feed to showcase more job vacancies, allow people to search jobs without registering and remains a free service. The platform targets jobs in the Northern Rivers local government areas of Clarence Valley, Richmond Valley, Lismore City, Kyogle, Ballina Shire, Byron Shire, and the Tweed Shire.

Jobseekers, Employers and Service Providers on the previous version of the platform will be directly invited, via email, to register on Jobs Northern Rivers. Registration as an employer or a jobseeker is as simple as heading to the website https:// jobsnorthernrivers. com.au and clicking the button to “Join this Community”.

Malcolm Robertson, Manager Open Spaces and Facilities, said Heritage Park is an important public space and is used by people of all ages.

“The aim of the masterplan is to look at the park in its existing form and how we might improve a range of things to cater for the future needs and desires of residents,” Mr Robertson said.

Things that are addressed in the draft masterplan are:

• Upgrading of facilities including the playground, paths, parking, shelters, and seating.

• Protection and improvement of the natural environment including the riverbank.

• Improvements to drainage

• Improving pedestrian safety at the intersection of Brunswick Terrace and Tincogan Street.

“One of the key areas we are focusing on is making sure that everyone can find their way to, in and around Heritage Park, Mr Robertson said.

“We can do this by making sure that improvements

“What we really want now is for Mullumbimby residents, and people who use Heritage Park, to provide us with their feedback and this will be incorporated into a report for the Council.

Mayor Michael Lyon said it is important that people realise that the document on exhibition is only a draft, and it can change.

“For example, when I looked at the draft, I noted that there is a suggestion that both boat ramps be removed but I think the ramp at Federation Bridge is an important asset, along with improving access to the water for all craft,” Mayor Lyon said.

“I am looking forward to reviewing the broader community feedback and learning more about what is important to people who use Heritage Park and the Brunswick River for a wide range of different activities,” “Once endorsed by the Council, staff can apply for grant funding for projects that are based around the central theme of creating a beautiful, green, peaceful, engaging and fun place for all,” Mayor Lyon said.

Information on the Heritage Park Draft Landscape Masterplan and how to make a submission is on Council’s website. The closing date for submissions is 23 June 2023.

Lismore City Council awards tender for Nimbin Road landslip remediation

Lismore City Council has awarded the tender for the remediation of landslips on Nimbin Road to Civil Mining and Construction Pty Ltd. This significant milestone marks another step towards enabling the area to remain a thriving tourist destination.

Two landslip sites on Nimbin Road were identified as significantly impacted by the February 2022 natural disaster through pre and post disaster assessments.

Council has prioritised this project, working in collaboration with state authorities. The roadworks will not only provide a safe and well-designed route for locals and tourists, but will also re-establish access to other villages and cultural attractions in the region.

Council’s Chief Operating Officer Brendan Logan said awarding this tender is a massive win for the Nimbin community.

“The community has displayed remarkable

resilience throughout the past year. Through this project, the road can be restored, and the town can continue to thrive as a tourist hotspot,” he said.

Nimbin Village, renowned worldwide for

its vibrant atmosphere, attracts thousands of tourists to the region. Awarding this tender will enable the landslip remediation project to commence, restoring dual lane access to the town for residents,

businesses and tourists. The anticipated timeline for the works is approximately nine months, subject to weather conditions, specialist contractors, and material availability. During this period,

traffic control lights

and existing single lane traffic control measures will remain in place.

The works will involve piling and retaining wall construction, pavement reconstruction, road reinstatement,

installation of guardrail barriers, signage, guideposts and line marking. Road users are advised to follow signage and anticipate delays during the works.

This project is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Government’s under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) with the funding administered by Transport for NSW.

For further information and updates on the project, please visit our dedicated Your Say Maintaining Roads and Bridges page at https:// yoursay.lismore.nsw. gov.au/maintaining-ourroads-and-bridges

If you have any inquiries or feedback, or if you want to provide your contact information for project updates, please contact Council on 6625 0500 or email council@lismore.nsw. gov.au. Please mention ‘Nimbin Road - April Update’ in the subject line.

SMOOTH NEW ROAD ON THE WAY FOR MURWILLUMBAH ROAD TO COOLAMON SCENIC DRIVE

SECURING LONGER TERM FUNDING FOR SPECIALIST HOMELESSNESS SERVICES

Works have started on a $245k road upgrade of a 400 metre section of Murwillumbah Road, near St John’s Primary School, that stretches up Coolamon Scenic Drive to the SES facility in Mullumbimby.

The works include a new $188k pedestrian crossing funded by NSW Federal Road Safety Program under the School Zone Infrastructure SubProgram opposite St John’s Primary School and will greatly improve safety for all users.

“These works are part of Council’s ongoing reseal program and our crews will be repairing the road this week so it’s ready for a full reseal next week, weather permitting,” Council’s Director Infrastructure Services, Phil Holloway said.

“Everyone who lives in Mullumbimby and the hinterland knows this is a very heavily used

section of road - whether it’s getting into town, to school, church, the Mullum Showgrounds, Spaghetti Circus, the farmers markets – this is a section of road that has been in poor condition for too long.

“This much-needed upgrade will deliver a safer and smoother road for the whole community that’s built to last for the long-term,” he said.

Council is asking residents, the school community and parish not to park their vehicles in the work zone until works are completed (around Wednesday 31 May, weather depending).

The School Zone Infrastructure Sub Program is making it safer for pedestrians on their way to and from school, and when walking within school zones. It is part of the $540 million NSW Federal Road Safety Program.

Works have started on a $245k road upgrade of a 400 metre section of Murwillumbah Road, near St John’s Primary School, that stretches up Coolamon Scenic Drive to the SES facility in Mullumbimby.

The works include a new $188k pedestrian crossing funded by NSW Federal Road Safety Program under the School Zone Infrastructure SubProgram opposite St John’s Primary School and will greatly improve safety for all users.

“These works are part of Council’s ongoing reseal program and our crews will be repairing the road this week so it’s ready for a full reseal next week, weather permitting,” Council’s Director Infrastructure Services, Phil Holloway said.

“Everyone who lives in Mullumbimby and the hinterland knows this is a very heavily used

section of road - whether it’s getting into town, to school, church, the Mullum Showgrounds, Spaghetti Circus, the farmers markets – this is a section of road that has been in poor condition for too long.

“This much-needed upgrade will deliver a safer and smoother road for the whole community that’s built to last for the long-term,” he said.

Council is asking residents, the school community and parish not to park their vehicles in the work zone until works are completed (around Wednesday 31 May, weather depending).

The School Zone Infrastructure Sub Program is making it safer for pedestrians on their way to and from school, and when walking within school zones. It is part of the $540 million NSW Federal Road Safety Program.

The NSW Government has granted a two-year extension of Specialist Homelessness Services (SHS) contracts, providing stability and continuity for some of the state’s most vulnerable people.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Rose Jackson, has acknowledged that the surge in demand has been driven by the effects of the pandemic, natural disasters, and the escalating housing affordability crisis.

Contracts for Specialist Homelessness Services and the Homeless Youth Assistance Program are set to expire on 30 June 2024.

“I am extending these existing contracts for a further two years. This will increase the current contract term from three years up to five years. The end date for these contracts will change from 30 June 2024 to 30 June 2026,” Ms Jackson said.

“Tens of thousands of people rely on us each year for essential support during times of crisis and it’s important for us to support them

and the organisations that work to provide housing solutions to our most vulnerable,”

“We are committed to delivering on our election commitments, which includes longer term, 5-year funding certainty for Specialist Homelessness Services. “This important reform will ensure SHS providers have certainty about funding, staffing, and continuing the incredible work they do to support people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Specialist Homelessness Services are focused on reducing the number of people who are homeless or living in insecure accommodation in NSW. This includes young people, families, natural disaster victims and women and children escaping domestic violence.

Everyone in NSW should have access to safe and secure housing. The NSW Government is committed towards increasing housing supply and delivering solutions to help break cycles of homelessness.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Rose Jackson,

The CWA in NSW says NO to waste-to-energy incinerators

Grants to boost community spirit

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin says the NSW Country Women’s Association has voted at its AGM to oppose waste-to-energy incinerators.

“The CWA has adopted a policy to advocate for the newly elected NSW Government to rescind its decision to establish waste-to energy incinerators and instead immediately introduce technology and waste reduction programs that use methods that minimise greenhouse gas emissions.

Ms Saffin said the Tabulam branch put the motion, which was one of several successful motions from the North Coast Group at the AGM in Bathurst this month.

“Other north coast policy positions adopted at the AGM included calling for telecommunications providers to maintain coverage to disaster impacted communities, for stronger legislation to protect koala habitat, and for ongoing resources for weed

management plans.

“The CWA also supported the call from the Hume group for stricter regulation and cessation of online betting and mobile phone apps, particularly during TV sports coverage.

“Lismore Day Branch President, Aliison Kelly and Lismore Evening branch President, Kerry Harvey spoke at the AGM to thank members for their support for our region.

The CWA donated $500,000 in flood relief last year.

“In the last Parliament I was active in establishing a Friends of the CWA group and I can report that we will be re-establishing the group in the new parliament.

“As a CWA Member myself I am proud to be associated with this organisation of women that has such a strong record of pushing through changes that improve the lives of women and rural communities,and support the social good in general.”

In partnership with The Yulgilbar Foundation, FRRR has awarded $785,794 in grants to 23 local groups for community projects designed to strengthen community capacity and resilience in the Clarence Valley and surrounding region.

These grants, which

region.

Ten of the 23 grants will support local events and festivals. This includes the Grafton Jacaranda Festival for a concert for 5,000 people Featuring Troy CassarDaley and Don Walker. Also set to perform on stage at the Grafton Jacaranda Festival is the

the projects funded demonstrate the important role that social connectedness plays in disaster recovery.

“While each place has its own unique set of recovery needs, in this round of grants we saw many community groups seeking funding for projects designed to

across the region, many of which will boost the capacity of local groups to contribute to recovery activities.

“For example, funding for Container of Dreams based near Tabulam will help women develop micro-enterprise skills, Woombah Residents

are funded through The Yulgilbar Foundation Fund program, are the final tranche of a $2 million commitment awarded over the last three years.

In the wake of the 2019-20 bushfires and subsequent disasters including floods and COVID, these grants will support local groups to foster community connection, education and wellbeing across the

Big Scrub Orchestra, which has also been awarded funds. The Orchestra’s grant will support music workshops to boost resilience, health and wellbeing of local children in five small rural public schools and support their performance in the Jacaranda Festival.

Sarah Matthee, FRRR’s General Manager of Partnerships and Services, said that

bring people together to strengthen social connections, which is such an important part of the recovery process. This also gives us valuable insight into where communities are in their recovery journey.”

Madeleine Noble, Executive Officer of The Yulgilbar Foundation said the Foundation is proud to support a variety of projects

Association will expand activities at the community garden focusing on disaster preparedness, and Lawrence Community Fundraising will run a series of creative workshops and events celebrating local residents and their skills”.

The full list of the recipients can be found on FRRR’s website.

Mudyala Aboriginal Corporation Rising Warriors_FRRR Yulgilbar

Friends of the Labyrinth Kyogle_FRRR Yulgilbar grant 2023

BY JEFFREY GIBBS

Seattle, one of North America’s most picturesque cities, is a must-visit holiday destination. Located between the sparkling Puget Sound and the magnifcent Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges, this vibrant Pacifc Northwest city offers a wide array of attractions, activities and delicious culinary experiences.

Accommodations in Seattle come in a range of options, from citycentre high-rise hotels to

boutique establishments in downtown’s charming historic neighbourhoods. Visitors can also fnd excellent bed & breakfast options, many with panoramic views of Seattle’s landmarks and scenery. For a truly unique setting, there are plenty of accommodations located outside of the city, letting guests explore the rugged beauty of the Pacifc Northwest and take in stunning views from the comfort of a cabin or cottage.

When it comes to food, Seattle is a smorgasbord

of delights. From coffeehouses and craft breweries to Michelinstarred restaurants and local favourites like Smith Tower, there is something for every taste. Seafood is a must-try in Seattle, from mackerel and salmon to the famous local favorite, geoduck. Food-lovers can also explore the city’s incredible ethnic dining options, from acclaimed Japanese restaurants to much-loved Vietnamese eateries.

Things to do:

One of the most popular activities people enjoy in Seattle is a visit to the iconic Space Needle. The Space Needle is a 605-foot tower located in the middle of Seattle and provides visitors with breath-taking views of the city skyline. While at the Space Needle, visitors can take an elevator ride to the observation deck and be on top of the world for a few moments.

Another great way to experience Seattle is to take a ride on an iconic attraction such as the Seattle Great Wheel. The

Seattle Great Wheel is a 175-foot tall Ferris wheel that offers spectacular views of the surrounding Puget Sound. The Ferris wheel is a great way to get a Birdseye view of Seattle while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

For the more adventurous at heart, Seattle has plenty of outdoor activities to offer visitors. With Mt. Rainier as a backdrop, Seattle is a paradise for those who love to hike, camp, and explore the wilderness.

There are many great camping sites within the city limits and nearby, as well as trails in Mt. Rainier National Park that offer stunning views of the Pacifc Northwest. As a bonus, Seattle is also home to some of the country’s top rock-climbing spots. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, Seattle has something for you too. From its beaches to its coffee houses, Seattle is a city of relaxation.

CREATE LASTING MEMORIES AT SECRET LAKE

We’re Here to Welcome You

Whether you’re seeking a walk on the beach, an afternoon of shopping, or a leisurely meal to savour each moment, Seattle has something for everyone. No matter what your preference, Seattle has something to offer. From its iconic Space Needle to its outdoor activities, Seattle has something to appeal to every traveller. Whether you’re a city-lover looking to explore the cityscapes, or an outdoor enthusiast looking to explore the great outdoors, you’ll fnd something to enjoy in Seattle.

Seattle is one of the most beautiful cities in the USA, and it offers plenty of activities for a great vacation. Whether you’re looking for delicious cuisine, adventurous activities, or just some good ol’ sightseeing, Seattle is an ideal destination for a getaway. So, pack your bags and prepare to have an unforgettable time!

Located only 10 mins drive from Lawrence, near Grafton, Secret Lake is the best place to relax and unwind on a fabulous camping holiday. We offer more comfort and style than most campgrounds, with camp kitchen with BBQs, microwave, sinks, electric kettle, hot showers, ushing toilets and more, everything to make sure you have everything you need for a more than comfortable stay.

Secret Lake is a small family run business, recently opened, nestled in the Clarence Valley amongst our abundant wildlife and birdlife, sandstone outcrops, waterholes and creeks. With 60 acre lake the focal point, we provide lakeside and bush sites for tents, caravans, motorhomes, swags and anything in between.

With lots of activities available free of charge, you can do as little or as much as you like at Secret Lake. Enjoy kayaks and in atable tyre tubes on the water, catch and release shing, bush walking, bike riding through the day and laze around one of our communal re pits at night and stargaze. We are pet friendly so all the family can enjoy exploring over 800 acres of natural bushland. Go to our website (www.secretlake.com.au) and book your next adventure.

Facilities:

• Private 60 acre lake bull shark and bullrout free without tides and safe for water activities

• Bush & Lakeside Campsites

• 20km of existing bush tracks for bike riding and bushwalking

• Bush Volleyball court

• Lake is stocked with silver perch, golden perch and bass for catch & release lure shing

• Fire Pits

• Easy access – all wheel drive accessible

• 10 minutes’ drive from Lawrence where you can enjoy an amazing counter meal and stock up at the general store

• Free kayaks to use

6 HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS ON A BUDGET AND CLOSER TO HOME

BY JEFFREY GIBBS

Australia is an ideal destination for couples looking to have a romantic honeymoon on a budget. With its stunning beaches, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant cities, there are plenty of places to explore and enjoy. From the lush rainforests of Queensland to the rugged coastlines of the Northern Territory, Australia offers couples the opportunity to experience a wide variety of activities and attractions. When planning a romantic honeymoon on a budget, one of the most important factors to consider is cost. Fortunately, Australia is home to a variety of affordable destinations, each offering something unique. Here are six of the best romantic honeymoon destinations in Australia that won’t break the bank.

Melbourne is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city full of culture and excitement. From the bustling laneways of its CBD to the scenic beauty of its beaches, there is plenty for couples to explore. Plus, many attractions in the city are free or very affordable. For example, a tour of the Royal Botanic Gardens is free, and

walking the streets of St Kilda is a great way to explore the area without spending a fortune.

2. The Great Barrier Reef. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most incredible natural wonders of the world and a must-see destination for any romantic honeymoon. While it can be expensive to take a tour of the reef or go diving, there are plenty of affordable options for couples looking to explore. For example, taking a glass-bottom boat tour is an inexpensive way to experience the beauty of the reef.

3. The Gold Coast. The Gold Coast is a popular destination for couples looking for a romantic honeymoon on a budget. With its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and plenty of attractions, this region is packed with activities for couples to enjoy. Plus, there are plenty of affordable accommodation options, from camping and caravan parks to budget hotels.

4. Fraser Island. Fraser Island is a stunning natural paradise located off the coast of Queensland. With its white sand beaches, crystal-clear lakes, and lush rainforests, this is

the perfect destination for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Plus, there are plenty of affordable accommodation options, from camping and caravan parks to budget hotels.

5. The Whitsundays. The Whitsundays

is an archipelago of 74 islands located off the coast of Queensland. With its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of activities, couples can spend their honeymoon exploring the beauty of this region. Plus, there are

plenty of affordable accommodation options, from camping and caravan parks to budget hotels.

6. Kangaroo Island.

Kangaroo Island is located off the coast of South Australia and is home to some of the country’s most stunning natural beauty. With its rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, and abundance of wildlife, this is the perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic honeymoon. Plus, there are plenty of affordable

accommodation options, from camping and caravan parks to budget hotels.

No matter what kind of romantic honeymoon you’re looking for, Australia has something for everyone. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and plenty of affordable accommodations, couples can experience the best of Australia without breaking the bank. So, if you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon on a budget, these six destinations are sure to provide the perfect getaway.

1. Melbourne.

The Whitsundays

Kangaroo Island

Melbourne

The Great Barrier Reef

The Gold Coast

Fraser Island

RURAL NEWS

1st of June, 2023

“We look forward to supporting this important initiative and highlighting the fantastic beef products that NSW has to offer.”

Throughout the week, the Aussie Beef Mates will also share ideas on innovative beef uses and network with stakeholders within the supply chain. Importantly, they will learn from each other as they create beef dishes inspired by regional favours.

Chef Roy Villacrusis is from Asiatic Culinary Services in the United States. He said that he had been working with MLA for the last decade, learning about Australian grassfed beef and pasture raised lamb and its versatile application.

“I am now an offcial Aussie Beef Mate and am super excited to be part of the US delegation for this year’s trip to Australia,” Mr Villacrusis said.

“I can’t wait to have hands on experience on how these amazing animals are cared for and prepared for shipping to our kitchens across the world.

The eyes of the world are on Australian beef this week, as international chefs converge on Sydney and regional NSW as part of the Aussie Beef Mates delegation.

Organised by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) in collaboration with Investment NSW, the Aussie Beef Mates delegation runs from May 28 to June 2, with the international visitors being immersed in all things beef from the paddock to the plate.

The program is running for the frst time this year. During this visit, 16 chefs and food professionals will visit NSW from countries including China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, United Arab Emirates

and Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, the UK and the US. They will visit a farm, processing plant and restaurants in the state’s Northern Rivers region as well participate in an Australian beef masterclass session in Sydney, exploring topics including butchery, Meat Standards Australia, food safety, integrity systems, and much more.

Global Business Manager at MLA, Josh Anderson, said Australian beef is enjoyed in over 100 countries around the world and is renowned for being a highquality and sustainable product.

“Through the Aussie Beef Mates program, international chefs and food professionals learn and share the Australian beef story

to their global network, driving international demand for this premium product,” Mr Anderson said.

“There is no better way to learn about the Australian beef industry than by spending time with producers and food professionals that are passionate about Australian beef.

“The program also leverages off the global recognition of Sydney and NSW, helping put NSW and Australia in the spotlight. The program will help to grow global exports by boosting the profle and understanding of beef in key overseas markets. It also shines a spotlight on NSW’s agricultural, food production, and trade and investment sectors.

“Following the event, MLA’s international marketing team will launch several global activations with the Aussie Beef Mates, providing a platform for them to share their experiences and infuence within their network to promote Australian beef and NSW produce.”

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said the Aussie Beef Mates program gives the Minns Government a chance to help sell Australia’s world class products to the world.

“This event will showcase the high-quality beef products available across NSW and draw attention to our state’s thriving beef industry on the global stage,” Mr Chanthivong said.

“These products have been a great compliment to my style of cooking. I call it Asiatic Cuisine and I can’t wait to learn more of how they get to this level of consistency and continue to achieve their goal to carbon neutrality in the next few years. I can’t wait!”

The Aussie Beef Mates delegation 2023 is a testament to MLA’s commitment to promoting Australian beef on the global stage, and the NSW Government’s support of the local industry. Through this program, MLA hopes to continue to strengthen relationships with key international markets and drive demand for Australian beef.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX MARKET REPORT

WEEK ENDING FRIDAY 26 MAY

Agents yarded a total of 847 head at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange regular prime sale on Wednesday 24 May. Young cattle were well supplied and there was a fair penning of cows. The yarding of young cattle consisted mainly of vealers and weaners, along with a small offering of yearlings. Quality of

GRAFTON

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

GRAFTON FAT CATTLE SALE 23/05.2023 420 TOTAL HEAD YARDED 170 EXPORTED 250 YOUNG CATTLE

A mixed quality yarding came forward for Grafton’s fortnightly Fat Cattle Sale

There were some good quality lines on offer with all categories well represented. Not all the usual processors

WARWICK

MC DOUGALL & SONS LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK WEEK ENDING 26/05/2023.

Cattle and Sheep numbers were around the mark as previous sales the only difference seeming to be a fair amount of lighter stock coming onto the markets. The pain is still being felt as the values are falling as we move into the period of the year when a fair amount of stock come onto the markets. Consumer demand and export rates are falling as we gather momentum.

Vealer steers av 308.1c/kg topping at 378.2c/kg or $792.51 to $1331.87

Vealer heifers av 255.5c/kg topping at 328.2c/kg or

WARWICK

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

Agents yarded 2758 head for the weekly sale with the increase in numbers leading to a fall in the market across the board. The lambs today were more in the light and unfnished types which may have brought on the downturn. The Southern markets are also infuencing prices as the volume of stock coming onto the market combined with interest rate rises and the onset of winter leading to growers looking to offoad stock rather than feed on through winter. Late crops are also infuencing the availability of feed.

Lambs topped at $167 to average $90.61($37down),

the young cattle was mixed with some well bred steers and heifers throughout the sale, along with some plainer cattle that were showing the affects of Winter. The largest percentage of young cattle were acquired by restockers with only a small number going to process.

Cow prices held frm on last week averaging 187c/ kg and reaching a top price of 225c/kg. Heifer prices were marginally easier with lighter stock up to 250kg averaging 210c/kg and topping their category at 314c/kg. Heavier heifers over 250kg averaged 229c/ kg and reached a top of 290c/kg.

operated on the Export Cattle with prices again falling 1020c/kg for both Cows and Bullocks. Some good quality restocker Steers and Heifers also met limited competition with most sales between 200-300c/kg. Store condition or poorly bred stock were very hard to shift.

Friday 26th May 2023 - Property Auction, 10:00am, Booroo Quarry - South Grafton Bowling Club

Thursday 1st June 2023 - DLP Special Store Cattle Sale, 9:00am, Grafton Saleyards

Saturday 17th June 2023 - Clearing Sale, 10:00am, 510 Bucca Road, Bucca NSW

Sale Highlights

Grafton Fat Cattle Sale 23rd May 2023

A/c Scott Mackey sold Brangus Bullocks 243.2c/kg

$654.14 to $1056.66

Feeder steers av 292.9c/kg topping at 318.2c/kg or $1246.36 to $1554.99

Feeder heifers av 231c/kg topping at 250c/kg or $867.68 to $1255.40

Yearling steers av 303.2c/kg topping at 370.2c/kg or $898.29 to $1238.77

Yearling heifers av 253.4c/kg topping at 350.2c/kg or $796.75 to $1593.41

Steers av 281.6c/kg topping at 319.2c/kg or $1676.82 to $1991.98

Heifers av 210.9c/kg topping at 234.2c/kg or $926.42 to $1452.04

Cows av 176.8c/kg topping at 215c/kg or $989.36 to $1732.25

Bulls av 197.4c/kg topping at 274.2c/kg or $1051.04 to $2062.42

Sheep & Lambs saw 2758 head hit a very depressed

hoggets topped at $93 to average $64.17($par), Ewes topped at $100 to average $42.54($35down), Wethers topped at $105 to average $96.62($18up), Rams topped at $50 to average $15.71($34down), Lamb rams topped at $179 to average $58.40($15down), Sale total of 2758 head averaged $80.12 a drop of $35/head average.

Vermont Past Co sold shorn 1stx Dorset lambs

51.8kg to Eversons for $147

Cooinda P/S sold Dorper x lambs 47kg to GR Prime for $139, 47.5kg to Jock Young Meats for $150, 45.8kg to Gr Prime for $142, 52kg hoggets to Eversons for $65

Rory & Kathy Frost sold 48kg Dorper lambs to Leslie Lamb for $150, 44kg to Leslie Lamb for $140, Ewes to Thomas Foods for $75, rams to Eversons for $10

Gradenfoe Past Co sold cfa Merino ewes with a

Bull prices saw a drop with 25 head sold averaging 203c/kg and 626kg. Steer prices fell with lighter stock up to 250kg averaging 272c/kg and reaching a top of 350c/kg. Heavier steers over 250kg averaged 291c/kg and topped their market at 378c/kg. A large number of bullocks sold on the day averaged 258c/kg and reached a top of 266c/kg.

Ramsey & Bulmer and T&W McCormack will hold a store sale at the NRLX on Friday 2 June with 1,200 head expected. Bookings are welcome!

averaged 802kg - $1,950.46 p/hd

A/c S & P Wratten sold Brahman Cross Bullocks 255c/ kg averaged 688kg - $1,755.25 p/hd

Alc Geoff Jones sold a Charolais Cross Cow 228.2c/kg weighed 780kg - $1,779.96

A/c P & W Feneley sold a Charolais Cross Cow 218.2c/ kg weighed 645kg - $1,407.39

A/c Rick Cavanough sold Simmental Cross Steers 254.2c/kg averaged 318kg - $810.26 p/hd

A/c SJ & TJ Elks sold Angus Steers 274.2c/kg averaged 157kg - $430.89 p/hd

A/c LR & VB Franey sold an Angus Heifer 258.2c/kg weighed 345kg - $890.79

market, the saving grace being the heavier fnished end of the market propping up the fall occurring in the light and feed on stock.

Lambs topped at $167 to av $90.61 ($37down)

Hoggets topped at $93 to av $64.17 ($1 up)

Ewes topped at $100 to av $42.54 ($35 down)

Wethers topped at $105 to av $96.62 ($18 up)

Rams topped at $50 to av $15.71 ($34 down)

Lamb rams topped at $179 to av $58.40 ($15 down)

Sale average of $80.12 was $35/head cheaper than last sale.

Boars sold from $75 to $146, Sows from $114 to $352, Pork from $81 to $191, Stores from $48 to $168

Hens sold to $21, Roosters to $18, Pullets to $16, Ducks to $17.50, Ducklings to $9, Turkey stags to $25, hens to $18

third wool to Thomas Foods for $65

Arolla Past Co sold Aussie White lambs 56.6kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $160, 45kg to Jock Young Meats for $130

Jack Dwan sold Dorper lambs 41kg to Eversons for $75, ewes to Eversons for $40

Martin Campbell sold Poll Dorset 4tooth wethers to Thomas Foods for $100

Alaringa Rural sold Dorper ewes to Thomas Foods for $75

Winston McNamara sold Dorset lambs 62kg to Thomas Foods for $167, hoggets 65kg to Take IT

Easy Meats for $93, 65kg ram lambs to Take IT

Easy Meats for $90

Charlie & Leeanne Mc Carthy sold Xbred lambs 45kg to Uniplaza Meats for $96, 33.3kg to GR

Prime for $50

Western Australian Hass avocado producers will soon be able to export to Thailand.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Murray Watt said this was a signifcant market access win for avocados, with an estimated market value of approximately $10 million.

“Improving market access for the Australian avocado industry is a priority for the Albanese Government,” Minister Watt said.

“The Australian avocado industry has recently experienced substantially lower prices on the domestic market due to

AVOCADOS ACCESS THAILAND TRADE

high supply.

“Opening new market access and trade opportunities is helping the avocado industry maintain steady supply and pricing.

“It supports the horticultural sector in meeting their target of a $20 billion sector by 2030 and the broader agricultural industry to grow toward a $100 billion sector.

“Thailand was Australia’s 12th largest agriculture, fsheries and forestry export market by value in 2021, worth $1.5 billion, including horticulture at $105 million.

“Consumer appetite for avocados is high in Thailand and it is no surprise that there is demand for our worldclass, clean, and healthy produce.

“Australia and Thailand have worked closely over many years on Australia’s long standing market access request for Hass avocados and this agreement demonstrates signifcant progress.

“It’s just one way the Albanese Government is continuing to expand market access and new trade opportunities for Australian fresh produce.”

To enable trade to commence for Australian avocados, Thailand needs to undertake verifcation activities, which we expect to

happen during the upcoming Western Australian 2023-24 avocado season. As a further demonstration of this

important trading relationship, conditions for the export of cooked duck meat from Thailand to Australia have also recently been fnalised.

CALL FOR FLOOD REVIEW TO PREVENT FUTURE RISK

NSW Farmers is calling for a comprehensive, ongoing review of devastating fooding during La Nina to prevent future threats to people, property and livelihoods.

Communities across the state experienced heavy rainfall and widespread fooding from March 2021 to the end of 2022, causing an estimated $5 billion in damage to homes, businesses, roads and other infrastructure.

NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said many people had reported unprecedented damage resulting from these foods, and called for a review into foodplains and planning decisions that may have exacerbated the problem. “We’re concerned that foodwater went places it hadn’t previously gone, and a lot of my members are saying they

think public and private ‘food works’ may be a contributing factor,” Mr Martin said.

“Levees, roadways or other structures built on the landscape alter the speed, depth and movement of foodwater, and we’re concerned that this is why we saw unexpected fooding that presented a real threat to lives.

“We support the NSW Water Minister’s call for improved modelling, but beyond that we need a comprehensive, ongoing review of public and private works so we can get to the bottom of what went on and more importantly understand how to prevent future food impacts.”

Many months after the foodwater subsided people were still trying to pick up the pieces and recover from these natural disasters, Mr

Martin said, but among farming businesses the doubt and uncertainty was presenting real challenges to future productivity.

“Some of our members have serious doubts about whether buildings and paddocks that were thought to be safe might be inundated again, and they’re wondering whether they should rebuild a shed or repair a roadway if it might simply be destroyed again,” he said.

“This doubt and uncertainty is having

a huge impact on productivity – this is a time when we need every part of agriculture fring on all cylinders to really drive our economic output.

“It’s the same for towns, we’re seeing entire communities fnd it diffcult to get insurance, and that’s having a major impact on those people – with so much doubt and uncertainty for homes and businesses, and with such a diffcult rebuilding effort still ahead of them, we would hate to see once vibrant towns collapse.”

Mr Martin said the state government had a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build back better from this major, widespread disaster, and set up a process that would protect people, property and the environment, and improve planning certainty into the future.

“Flooding rains can’t be avoided, but we can avoid exacerbating the problem, and we can prevent future loss of life, of livelihoods, of property and of business,” he said.

“We need to make sure we have ft-for-purpose planning rules and accurate modelling that takes into account the cumulative impact of food works and looks at the movement, depth and velocity of fows.

“This might involve aerial scans and talking to people on ground about their experiences, but the end result we want to see is that if a proposed new levee bank or roadway or dam will food a town or a property, it gets changed to avoid that impact.”

Australian dairy leaders have warned locallyproduced milk is under threat as soaring costs and falling prices force farmers to leave the industry.

NSW Farmers Dairy Committee acting chair Malcolm Holm said “a perfect storm” of events was making it harder and harder to be a dairy farmer every year, with a drop in prices from processors coinciding with high costs, competition for land, and a lack of confdence in the industry.

“The family dairy business is becoming harder and harder to manage and consumers

FAMILIES FEELING THE PINCH ON MILK

are being forced to choose between our great locally-made dairy products or the imported ones as a result of the declining milk volumes,” Mr Holm said.

“We’ve got this horrible situation where the supply is shrinking and rather than prices that support farmers we’ve got signs the processors will drop their prices, which will lead to less Australian milk in supermarkets.

“If we learned anything from COVID it’s that we can’t rely on imports for our food security, we need to shore up supply locally!”

Processors are required to release their opening milk prices each year before 2pm on June 1 under the mandatory Dairy Code of Conduct, which came into effect following an ACCC inquiry into farmgate milk prices. Victorian processor Bulla was frst out of the gate this year announcing prices of $8.80 to $9.60 per kilogram of milk solids, below what many in the industry said would be needed to stop the declining number of farmers.

Mr Holm said farmers had little option but to accept the prices offered by local processors, and while no-one wanted

to see the price of milk rise in the supermarkets, failure to support the industry would lead to a downturn.

“It’s a tough situation for farmers and families at the moment – we don’t want to see the

price of milk rise in the supermarkets, but at the same time we don’t want to be driven out of business,” he said.

“There are a lot of costs in the supply chain that are contributing to milk prices, and we’re

getting squeezed on either end.

“Recent federal budget announcements of rises in heavy vehicle road charges and increased biosecurity levies will further squeeze the whole market.”

FINDING FARMING SOLUTIONS TO CLIMATE VOLATILITY

Australia’s farmers will be able to access proven practices and technologies to make their businesses more resilient and sustainable as conditions dry, thanks to a series of grants from the Future Drought Fund.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said the Extension and Adoption of Drought Resilience Farming Practices grants would enable farmers and regional communities to build better drought practices into their businesses.

“Drought is a normal part of the Australian landscape, but we know we will see more frequent and more intense droughts thanks to climate change,” Minister Watt said.

“Farmers listen to other farmers, so these grants

will mean farmers can share practices and tools that will shore up businesses before the next dry hits.

“I know that many parts of Australia are still dealing with the aftereffects of last year’s foods, but I also know that the next drought is always around the corner.

“What drought resilience looks like will be different from place to place, and there is no one-size-fts-all solution.

“We’re investing $13 million from the Future Drought Fund, through the Extension and Adoption of Drought Resilience Farming Practices program to provide 18 grants to organisations and farmers across Australia, which will enable a range of projects to go ahead.

“This includes a grant for Ag Excellence Alliance, who will work with 15 grower groups and four Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hubs across southern Australia to show farmers how early sowing can be more effcient and help manage climate risks.

“In northern Australia, the NT Farmers Association will work with cattle farmers to adopt best practice cotton production, which supports diversifcation and provides an additional food source for livestock as conditions dry.

“Another project will help improve the proftability and productivity of wine, horticulture, grains, cotton, sugar and livestock producers on 75 farms across South

Australia, Queensland, and northern NSW.

“Australia’s farmers are innovative and independent. We’ve already seen how our farmers are adapting to the changing climate.

“These initiatives mean proven ideas and technologies can spread further, readying agribusiness to carry on through the hard times.”

The Extension and Adoption of Drought Resilience Farming Practices program is part of the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund which provides $100 million each year for programs and projects to support farmers and regional communities to build their drought resilience.

For more information, including the full list of Extension and Adoption of Drought Resilience Farming Practices grant recipients, visit https:// www.agriculture.gov.au/ agriculture-land/farmfood-drought/drought/ future-drought-fund/ extension-adoptiondrought-resiliencefarming-practices-grants

BEST ON THE BOX

WEDNESDAY UTOPIA

ABC, 8pm

FRIDAY HIDDEN FIGURES

SEVEN, 8.30pm

A critically acclaimed hit of 2016, this lm is based on the true story of three black women who worked behind the scenes to put man in space. Taraji P. Henson (Empire) is NASA mathematician Katherine G. Johnson who, along with her colleagues Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer, The Help) and Mary Jackson (singer Janelle Monáe, above) helped keep the USA get ahead in the space race, all while conquering the sexism and racism of the day. Heartwarming and inspiring, this is a classic feel-good ick of the highest order. Also stars Kevin Costner and Kirsten Dunst.

FRIDAY, June 2

6.00 The Drum. Analysis of the day’s news.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Costa Georgiadis meets ower show designers.

8.30 Smother. (Mal) Anna confronts her new stepfather Paul about their own one night stand and invites him to the hotel.

9.25 Mayfair Witches. (Mav)

Trapped in the First Street House, Rowan and Sip must confront its many mysteries in order to escape.

10.05 Interview With The Vampire. (Mahlv) Louis and Lestat live through the Depression.

10.50 ABC Late News.

11.05 The Split. (Ml, R)

12.05 Harrow. (Madnsv, R)

1.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

After almost ve years, this much-loved political satire returns with fresh shenanigans at the Nation Building Authority, a government organisation run by a comical band of diligent pen-pushers. Season ve delivers eight exciting new episodes about the minutiae and relationships of federal bureaucracy and o with the all the crew, including star and director Rob Sitch (right), Celia Pacquola, Dave Lawson, Dilruk Jayasinha, Kitty Flanagan and Anthony Lehmann returning for the hijinks. With its trademark hilarious characters and dry one-liners, this season features an embarrassing UNESCO report and a road project held up by an errant stature.

THURSDAY RICK STEIN’S CORNWALL

SBS FOOD, 8.30pm

Chef Rick Stein is a foodie, but

gentleman who loves striking up a conversation with fellow gourmands.

Known to quote works of literature and freely wax lyrical, Stein’s series are intimate and educational delights. In this third season of exploring his beloved Cornwall, the slow pace and attention to detail is tantalising and, of course, the food is a wholesome treat. Tonight, the self-e acing Brit visits shing port of Boscastle, where an unusual seafood restaurant is calling. After a jaunt to Cornwall’s only organic mushroom farm, he whips up a stir fry with lion’s mane mushrooms and broccoli. It’s brain food at its best.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Building The Impossible: Oil Rig. (PG)

8.30 Marseille: Birth Of A Megapolis. Explores the history of Marseilles.

9.30 Legends Of The Pharaohs: The Tyrant King. (Masv, R) A look at the Great Pyramid of Giza.

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (MA15+av)

11.50 Vienna Blood. (Ma, R)

3.30 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Children’s

The Movie Show. 6.10 Asterix And Obelix In Britain. (2012, PG, French) 8.15 Dr Strangelove. (1964) 10.05 Transcendence. (2014, M) 12.15pm The Reluctant Fundamentalist. (2012, M) 2.40 The Movie Show. 3.10 Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi) 5.05 A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG) 7.20 Steel Magnolias. (1989, PG) 9.30 Good Night, And Good Luck. (2005, PG) 11.15 The Hurricane. (1999, MA15+) 1.50am Gagarine. (2020, M, French) 3.35 Limbo. (2020, M) 5.30 Amazonia. (2013, No dialogue)

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs catches up with Kate Flood, who teaches about the bene ts of composting.

8.30 MOVIE: Hidden Figures. (2016, PGal, R) Based on a true story. Three African-American women working as mathematicians for NASA play a big role in one of the world’s greatest achievements by helping send an astronaut into space. Taraji

P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe.

11.00 To Be Advised.

12.00 MOVIE: Slam. (2018, MA15+alv)

A young Australian’s suburban life turns into hell when his sister, a slam poet and activist, disappears. Adam Bakri, Rachael Blake.

2.30 Home Shopping.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 14. Wests Tigers v Canberra Raiders.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Wests Tigers versus Canberra Raiders match, with news and analysis.

10.40 MOVIE: The Foreigner. (2017, MA15+alv, R) A businessman seeks justice. Jackie Chan.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

Hosted by Ben Shephard.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Postcards. (PG, R) The team explores Mount Martha.

4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) Skippy searches for a missing cat.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGal) Lifeguards honour their former colleague Terry with a traditional paddle out.

8.30 To Be Advised.

9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mls, R) Graham Norton is joined by actors Michelle Williams, Helena Bonham Carter and Brendan Fraser, screenwriter Russell T Davies and talent show judge Oti Mabuse. Music from singer-songwriter Cat Burns.

11.30 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news and events.

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Stephen Colbert interviews a variety of guests from the worlds of lm, politics, business and music.

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

7MATE (64)

(83)

PEACH (52)

Coolangatta, Gold Coast

COOLY ROCKS ON UNVEILS HUGELY ANTICIPATED ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP FOR 2023

Lovers of music, motors and the lifestyle of yesteryear are preparing for another not-to-bemissed event on the annual calendar as one of Australia’s largest nostalgia festivals announces its much anticipated entertainment lineup.

This year’s Cooly Rocks

On, to be held on the Gold Coast from 7-11 June, will feature a host of big international performers, along with Australia’s favourite rock ‘n’ roll, rockabilly and swing artists from across the country.

One of the headline acts in the 2023 program is Swedish group The Go Getters, arguably one of the biggest rockabilly bands in the world. The trio who formed 35 years ago is sure to keep the toes tappin’ all night as they

make their frst appearance in Australia in more than a decade.

Japan’s Johnny Pandora has been breaking hearts on the rock ‘n’ roll and rockabilly scene since he was 18 years old, performing nearly 200 shows a year. Now the singer, bassist, guitarist and dancer is ready to wow audiences in Coolangatta as part of this year’s lineup.

New Zealand’s original retro rockers Boom! Boom! Deluxe are set to fll the dancefoor, playing a mix of authentic 1950s and 60s classics laced with clever re-workings of modern songs in the rock ‘n’ roll styles.

“This year’s festival is going to be bigger and better than ever with fve international acts invited to perform, as well as dozens

of acts from across the country flling the streets with the sound and energy we have become famous for,” said Major Events Gold Coast Director of Festivals and Events Mark Duckworth.

Fan favourites from Melbourne, The Rechords, will perform their unique blend of bluegrass western swing, hillbilly and rock ‘n’ roll.

Adelaide’s hottest sevenpiece 50s swing, rhythm and roots group Lucky Seven will set the mood at the Cooly Rocks On Moonlight Swing Dance, as well as channelling the original rock ‘n’ roll genius of the legendary Bill Haley with their outft The Lucky Comets: The Sounds Of Bill Haley.

Queensland’s own Cherry Divine, dubbed the ‘Princess of Rockabilly’,

grew up listening to records on her Grandad’s gramophone. Her love for rockabilly has taken her around the world and she can’t wait to return to Cooly Rocks On.

Headlining in the Elvis Precinct this year is the USA’s Shawn Klush, who’s widely considered the best Elvis Tribute Artist in the world.

“For Elvis fans, it doesn’t get much better than this,” said Mark Duckworth.

“Shawn tours extensively around the world performing to sold out shows, but his inaugural Cooly Rocks On appearance will be his frst Down Under in fve years. The team is so excited to present Shawn at the 2023 festival.”

The critically acclaimed artist was named the

frst-ever ‘Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist’ by Elvis Presley Enterprises in Memphis and has been described as the “closest thing to The King in concert.”

Cooly Rocks On is also bringing another renowned international Elvis Tribute Artist to the Gold Coast, with an Australian-frst performance from Jimmy Holmes (USA), who has taken the industry by storm.

In an unmissable event, Jimmy Holmes and Mark Andrew will present “The King Returns to Stage ‘68-’72” in a nod to Elvis’ triumphant return to the live arena after waving goodbye to Hollywood.

For lovers of surf culture and classic rock ’n’ roll car songs, The Australian Beach Boys Show will bring back memories of

cruising in coupes and feeling fne in a Chevrolet 409.

Other notable artists performing this year include The Pacifc Belles, Issi Dye, Jake & the Cadillacs, Kenny and the Nitro Rockers, Melody Graves and the Hokum Redemption, Peaches & the Alphasonics, Swingabilly Ray and more!

“If you’re all about 50s, 60s and 70s music then get ready to step back in time with our curated lineup of legendary artists at Cooly Rocks On in 2023.” said Mark Duckworth.

Cooly Rocks On is supported by the Queensland Government, via Tourism and Events Queensland, and is a feature on the It’s Live! in Queensland events calendar.

Cooly Breeze Rooftop Restaurant & Bar supports the responsible service of alcohol.

Seaside Sanctuary for Ultimate Relaxation Escape to Kalm Springs

Kalm Springs is the epitome of indulgence and tranquillity nestled in the heart of Casuarina, Northern NSW. We invite you to embark on a journey of sensory bliss and rejuvenation, where time stands still and your well-being takes centre stage. Our exclusive Recovery & Health Spa offers an array of premium therapies designed to soothe your mind, body, and soul:

• Sensory Deprivation Floatation Tanks

• Private Infrared Saunas

• Cold Exposure Ice Bath

• LED Light Therapy

Whether you seek a single visit to escape the chaos, value packs for regular indulgence, treatment packages to address specifc concerns, or memberships for unlimited access to Kalm Springs, we have the perfect option for you.

Let this be your time to recover, heal, and exhale.

SATURDAY NIGHT CAR CRUISE

You asked, we listened!

After a long-awaited return, we’re beyond excited to bring back the Saturday Night Car Cruise to Cooly Rocks On 2023!

Watch as the streets of Coolangatta are transported back in time as they are taken over by cars from the eras gone by. With four safely fenced off designated viewing areas along Marine Parade, you’re in for a treat as you watch the impressive feet drive by!

Starting from the northern end of Griffth Street, then going onto Marine Parade and around Kirra headland, drivers will be able to enjoy three laps* of this beautiful route.

LOCATION:

DEPARTING FROM GRIFFITH STREET

TIME & DATE:

FROM 6PM SATURDAY 10 JUNE

PRICE: $20 + BOOKING FEE

*Number of laps is approximate and may change.

Coolangatta, Gold Coast

GOODWIN PARK

Get ready for even more nostalgia as you get up close to the various cars, bikes and more from the 50s, 60s, and 70s!

Back for the third year, Goodwin Park includes Show ‘N’ Shine vehicles, an interactive car simulator area, scooters, bicycles, vintage buses and more! If you’re looking to purchase some vintage goodies, you can stroll through a variety of market stalls throughout the park.

Come check it out for yourself and be transported back to the world of yesteryear.

COOLANGATTA/ TWEED BARBARIANS

R.U.F.C

All

CASH ONLY

5:30am till 10:00pm

SATURDAY and SUNDAY

Award Winning Cheeses

Kustomville is a Kustom culture experience showcasing the best lowbrow art, kustom bombs, sleds, hot rods, and coupes from across Australia and beyond!

Take a stroll through the precinct to see the streets of Coolangatta transported back to the good ol’ days.

Back for its third year, Kustomville is not to be missed!

LOCATION:

KUSTOMVILLE (SOUTHERN END OF MARINE PARADE)

ROCK ON DANCE WORKSHOPS

Rock on in and learn a thing or two at Cooly Rocks On’s Rock On Dance Workshops, hosted by Cooly locals, Gotta Swing. Enjoy fve days of learning various dance styles, including Rock ‘n’ Roll, Swing, Rockabilly, Lindy Hop, Balboa, Shag, line dances and more as you heat the foor up to everyone’s favourite hits. With teachers from nine schools across Australia, you’re bound to learn a thing or two. Partners are not required, all skill levels are covered and all welcome. PLUS with free Social Dancing at the end of each day, you can keep your hips moving long into the night at The Strand at Coolangatta with DJ Rhythm Man Mark, host of the Rock On Dance Workshops.

WHEN:

Wednesday 7 June, 9:00AM – 5:30PM

Thursday 8 June, 9:00AM – 5:30PM

Friday 9 June, 9:00AM – 5:30PM

Saturday 10 June, 9:00AM – 5:30PM

Sunday 11 June, 9:00AM – 12:30PM

*Exact workshop times and further information will be published in the app closer to the festival.

LOCATION: Level 1 in The Strand at Coolangatta (outside Little Cooly Pizza & Pasta Bar)

PRICE: $10 | Walk-ins only

MOST

DEVELOPMENT SITE

76 Marine Parade Kingscliff

Outstanding opportunity to capitalise and re-develop this high profiled landmark site which allows for both Residential & Commercial options.

This prime landmark site is located on the highly exposed junction of the beachfront esplanade and Seaview St, directly opposite the Kingscliff Surf Club and surrounded by a smorgasbord of cafés & retail outlets, the Kingscliff Shopping Village anchored by Woolworths and the highly acclaimed Kingscliff Hotel which is a few hundred meters away.

KEY DETAILS:

• 885m2 allotment

• 2 street frontages (Marine Pde & Seaview St)

• Zoned MU1 (mixed use Residential / Commercial)

• Height to 13.6M / Floor ratio 2:1

• Suit luxury apartments, retail, professional offices & medical (STCA)

For Sale

By Negotiation David Stringer 0418 150 731 david@djstringer.com.au

STEP BACK IN TIME

The moment you set foot in Retrosheila, Coolangatta, you are transported back to childhood, resisting the temptation to touch Grandma’s things. It’s a treasure trove of vintage clothing and accessories, trinkets and knickknacks, kitchen items, jewellery and much much more. You can pick up a gift or a momento at a great price, there’s something for everyone. Every inch of the store is a delight and Gregory, the owner of this gem is so passionate about his collectables he travels the world to pick up items to sell in his shop.

If you’re looking for a special outfit or accessory for Cooly Rocks, pop in to Retrosheila, just off the beach opposite Beachhouse. We’re open Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday 11am till 4:30. Extended hours over Cooly Rocks weekend.

Bespoke Skincare For You

REGIONAL HOUSING SQUEEZE HOLDING BACK ECONOMY

In-demand workers are facing soaring rents and dwindling vacancies in rural and regional areas, creating an “unsustainable” situation for the agricultural sector.

Tenants are paying at least 10 per cent more than last year for the majority of areas, with Upper Hunter rents the worst – jumping by 22.9 per cent. Communities with strong agricultural bases, such as Forbes, the Richmond Valley, Yass and Wagga Wagga were among those with 15 per cent rent rises, while the number of rental vacancies was far lower than the number of job ads, a trend NSW Farmers Workplace Relations chair Chris

Stillard said was “unsustainable”.

“I know everyone is feeling the pinch with higher costs at the supermarket and rising electricity prices, but if people can’t afford to live in these places then we won’t get the workers we need to produce our food and fbre,” Mr Stillard said.

“Farmers are often at the bleeding edge of cost-ofliving pain, taking lower and lower prices for our produce while paying more and more to grow it, and we absolutely empathise with rural and regional renters.

“This is a problem that needs to be solved, and soon.”

The issue of housing access and affordability was a key issue facing local, state and federal governments, and there were a range of solutions put forward, such as reducing short-term holiday rentals, building pre-fabricated homes for workers, and/or changing planning rules.

Mr Stillard said all

options needed to be on the table and called for an urgent review that looked beyond metropolitan areas to the specifc needs of rural, remote and regional communities.

“Available housing in rural, remote and regional areas is scarce –while the rental vacancy rate in the regions has

lifted from last year, it is still below what would be considered a balanced market,” he said.

“If you look at Echuca and Moama, there are 22 rental vacancies and an additional 27 vacancies on AirBNB – those are additional properties that could be used to ease the rental market.

“It’s a similar situation in communities right across the state, and we’ve heard many stories of businesses buying old pubs or motels to house their workforce. If we’re going to attract doctors and nurses and teachers and tradies to regional areas we need somewhere for them to live.”

WORKING TOGETHER FOR A DROUGHT-PROOF FUTURE

The Albanese Government is leading the discussion on drought preparedness and response, with consultation underway on a new Australian Government drought plan.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Murray Watt said the best way to support the agricultural sector and rural communities was to speak with them directly.

“We’ve just published our review into the Australian Government national drought plan—which means fresh ideas and new voices have explored hands-on approaches to managing drought,” Minister Watt said.

“While reviewing the current plan, more than

100 farming, community, environmental and other organisations had their say on how we could make improvements. Thanks to their feedback we now have 18 recommendations to consider.

“The landscape has changed signifcantly since the Drought Response, Resilience and Preparedness Plan was released in 2019—so a review was needed— and as we head towards our next El Niño cycle, drought preparedness is essential.

“We want to make sure the plan is useful for farmers and rural communities, and we are consulting with stakeholders further to make sure the plan is ftfor-purpose.

“Two forums will be run later this year. My department will work with the National Farmers’ Federation to host the next National Drought Forum in Rockhampton this September.

“Policy makers and support organisations will come together at that forum. It’s a chance to hear stakeholder’s views on how to face challenges that accompany drought, like mental health impacts, climate change and sustainable agriculture, and the contribution of First Nations People to drought policy.

“There will also be a Science to Practice Forum in June—held by the Future Drought Fund. Farmers are

using innovative tools and practices to build drought resilience and sustainability in the agricultural sector, and this is their chance to share what they know.

“Good policy doesn’t happen in a vacuum, I encourage anyone

Beekeeping Supplies

with an interest in sustainable, climatesmart agriculture to get involved and have their voice heard.”

The review of the Australian Government drought plan can be read here: https:// haveyoursay.agriculture.

gov.au/new-australiangovernment-droughtplan

To register for the 2023 Science to Practice Forum, visit www.eventbrite. com/e/2023-scienceto-practice-forumtickets-596424209867

GOVERNMENT MUST ACT TO BRING DOWN GROCERY PRICES

NSW Farmers has called upon the federal government to crack down on big businesses driving up the cost of groceries by abusing market power.

When the Reserve Bank of Australia lifted interest rates to an 11year high this week,

NSW Farmers Business, Economics and Trade Committee chair John Lowe said, more stress was placed on families experiencing cost of living stress. Mr Lowe said serious competition reform needed to be delivered by the federal

government as part of next week’s budget.

“We know food is the second-largest household expenditure behind rent or mortgage repayments, and the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported food spending increased by 12.8 per cent in the 12 months to February 2023,” Mr Lowe said.

“But we also know the cost of groceries is increasing not just because of infation, but because of years and years of consolidation in the food processing and retail sector.

NSW Farmers set target for EID

The state’s peak agricultural body says mandatory electronic identifcation tags for sheep should cost no more than $1 per tag, setting a clear target for state and federal governments.

Last year Australia’s agriculture ministers agreed to mandate the use of electronic identifcation under the national traceability system for sheep and goats. But almost 12 months later, farmers were still worried about how much the scheme might cost their businesses, and made it clear there must be fnancial support to implement traceability reform.

NSW Farmers had agreed to policy

providing in-principle support for the national traceability scheme after it was mandated by the previous government, President Xavier Martin said, but there was a need to set a maximum cost amid growing angst from producers.

“Farmers are rightly becoming increasingly concerned about the costs associated with implementing eID for sheep and goats, following the previous government’s mandating of the traceability system last year,” Mr Martin said.

“Since the former government’s announcement of mandated electronic identifcation for sheep and goats in July 2022,

“Where once there were many businesses in the food sector, the level of market concentration we see today has led to incredible power imbalances that are driving up the cost of food for consumers.”

Farmers had campaigned long and hard for fairness in the market, Mr Lowe said, and while the voluntary Food and Grocery Code was supposed to improve the behaviour of retailers and wholesalers towards suppliers, it had been found by the Australian Competition and

we have been clear that there must be suffcient fnancial support made available for producers of these livestock.

“Our Executive Council has looked at what other state governments are providing their producers and calculated a maximum price of $1 per tag is reasonable for the NSW Government to support given biosecurity benefts everyone, not just producers.”

The offcial position of NSW Farmers on the national traceability reform for sheep and goats clearly articulated the Association’s inprinciple support for the move to mandatory eID was conditional on several factors, including:

• Tag costs were reduced to an economically affordable level,

• Farmers and the supply chain were provided fnancial assistance to

Consumer Commission to have “signifcant shortcomings”.

“Implementing recommendations from the ACCC’s 2020 Perishable Agricultural Goods Inquiry would be an excellent starting point to bring food prices down for consumers,” Mr Lowe said.

“The entire reason the ACCC came to be in the frst place was to protect the consumer, and it’s about time these recommendations were taken seriously.

“If the federal government is serious

about tackling some of the cost-of-living problems facing Australian families in next week’s budget, then it needs to listen to the expert advice of the nation’s competition watchdog and make our markets fairer for everyone.”

Among the ACCC recommendations NSW Farmers wanted to see implemented were:

• Making the Food and Grocery Code mandatory with civil penalties for breaches

• An economy-wide prohibition on unfair trading practices

• An overhaul of the current merger and acquisition approval process

There also needs to be an analysis of supply chain profts, with a focus on markups and price gouging.

invest in technology, and

• The transition was underpinned by an equitable funding arrangement across the supply chain.

Mr Martin said with state and federal governments mandating a more expensive system, there needed to be fnancial assistance on the table, and the

$1 price tag was in line with other states.

“Farmers need support in reducing the cost of accredited eID National Livestock Identifcation System devices, including ear tags and similar identifcation technology, under this reform,” Mr Martin said.

“The last thing we want to see is a signifcant cost burden borne by

producers who are now required to transition to using eID by government.

“NSW Farmers is determined to secure fnancial assistance for farmers and the supply chain to invest in technology; to retain tag free pathways, and ensure the system be developed in consultation with producers.”

SOFT AGRICULTURE

SUSTAINABLE ORGANIC FARMING TECHNIQUES

SOFT Agriculture offers an extensive range of products to suit Classic Conventional and Organic Farming methods.

OUR RANGE: Classic Conventional Animal Range

Fiona Simson Elected to World Farmers’ Organisation Board

The National Farmers’ Federation is pleased to announce that its President, Fiona Simson, has been elected overnight as a Director of the World Farmers’ Organisation (WFO).

At the 2023 World Farmers’ Organisation General Assembly, held in Sun City, South Africa, Fiona Simson was elected to represent the Oceania Constituency of the

WFO. The Oceania Constituency represents farmers in Australia and New Zealand.

“Farmers are at the forefront of the big issues facing the world. When it comes to climate change, food security, economic development and environmental protection, farmers are part of the solution.

“It’s important that when discussions are being

held at the global level on issues impacting on agriculture, Australian farmers will be able to have a voice in those discussions.

“A strong voice for Oceania in the WFO provides an opportunity for NFF to communicate Australian industry and government approaches in these global forums.

“It is essential to food and fbre producers a

strong voice on the big global issues.”

The World Farmers’ Organisation is the global voice for farmers across the world. It represents farmers in international forums through the ‘Farmer Constituency’ a collaboration of farmers organisations from diverse countries.

“The World Farmers’ Organisation is at the heart of global discussions. Whether its COP or the UN Food Systems Summit, the WFO has a seat at the table. As a Director, I can ensure Australian

farmers are heard at the highest levels.

Ms Simson also paid tribute to Katie Milne, outgoing WFO Vice President and Oceania Board Director.

“Katie Milne has been a phenomenal

representative of farmers in Australia and New Zealand. I’m proud to be able to carry on Katie’s work, ensuring that the voices of farmers in our region are heard everyday around the world.”

New Report Highlights Opportunities For Strengthening Indigenous Agriculture

A landmark report by the National Farmers’ Federation and KPMG released today has underscored the need for better engagement to unlock the economic potential of Indigenous agriculture.

The Realising the Opportunity report, released at an NFF forum in Darwin today, aims to strengthen the economic and cultural empowerment of Indigenous Australians through accessible and collaborative pathways in agriculture.

Chair of the NFF’s Indigenous Engagement Working Group, Natalie Sommerville, a South Australian farmer and descendent of the Wagadagam people of the Torres Strait, hoped the report would progress Australia’s thinking about the important role of Indigenous agriculture and the signifcant economic opportunity it represents for First Nations peoples.

“For millennia Indigenous Australians have sustainably managed and shaped landscapes for a range of purposes, including the production of food.

“For Indigenous peoples these practices, products, skills and knowledge form an incredibly rich tradition of signifcant ongoing cultural importance, and also of future economic potential.

“Amplifying these valuable contributions from Indigenous individuals and organisations and collaborating is an enormous opportunity for both Indigenous peoples and our agricultural sector today,” Ms Sommerville said. “The frst step is to listen and learn from previous engagement”.

NFF Acting President David Jochinke emphasised the role that Indigenous Australians could play in agriculture becoming Australia’s next $100 billion

industry.

“There is a very real and direct connection between reaching growth ambitions, the economic empowerment of Indigenous peoples, and Closing the Gap across the full range of social outcomes.

“To unlock that potential, we need to do better at attracting Indigenous Australians to the industry, and supporting and promoting Indigenous agribusinesses,” Mr Jochinke said.

KPMG Partner and Agribusiness Sector

Lead Georgie Aley said the report’s fndings are underpinned by broad stakeholder consultation.

“Access to current and reliable data on the scale and contribution of Indigenous Australians in agriculture has been a challenge, which is a fundamental hurdle we have to collectively overcome.

“To compile this report, we consulted

with a wide range of Indigenous and nonIndigenous stakeholders from across the agriculture industry.

“We heard consistently that we need to better bridge traditional and contemporary agriculture and strengthen Indigenous engagement in agriculture, and we’ve made practical recommendations to help the industry down that path,” Ms Aley said.

Recommendations from the report include:

• Building cultural awareness across the industry to better attract and retain an Indigenous workforce;

• Wider adoption of Reconciliation Action Plans;

• Endorsement of joint ventures that balance Caring for Country and commercial agriculture;

• Unlocking culturallyappropriate access to capital for Indigenous businesses;

• Better promotion of Indigenous agribusiness and agricultural products.

Mr Jochinke said the NFF would now consider these recommendations as it progresses its Indigenous policy work.

“We acknowledge that as an organisation

we are at an early stage of improving our engagement with Indigenous cultural awareness.

“We’re grateful for the work that KPMG has done in this report to help progress industry’s thinking, and offer us practical advice on a path forward.

“We’re committed to deepening our engagement and helping amplify the contribution of Indigenous Australians as a central part of the industry’s growth,” Mr Jochinke concluded.

The full report is available here

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS CHANGES RISK BULLDOZING TRADIES

The freedom of choice for tradies to be their own boss is under threat, with the Federal Government proposing to force independent contractors to give up their business to become an employee, says Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn.

Master Builders Australia has today released its response to the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations discussion paper on ‘Employee like’ forms of work and stronger protections for independent contractors.

Master Builders Australia vehemently

opposes the ‘employeelike’ policy and urges the Government to restrict its scope solely to gig workers, as purportedly intended.

“The proposed ‘employee-like’ policy goes beyond the Government’s purported original scope of supporting gig workers and leaves the door open to swallow industries across the economy. This includes well-established forms of work, including independent contractors and self-employed tradies,” Ms Wawn said.

“The building and construction industry is made up of around 440,000 businesses, with over 264,000 of

them being independent contractors, representing one in fve workers.

“For decades, the industry has attracted individuals who choose to go out and be their own boss and have the freedom to choose the hours they work, the projects they work on, who they work for and negotiate their own fees and conditions.

“If the policy is implemented as foreshadowed in this paper, it will fundamentally upend and damage the entire building and construction industry which is founded on a model of specialist contract work arising from the way in

which building work is performed.

“The dynamic nature and array of specialist contractors required on a project mean it is simply not feasible for businesses to have to permanently employ independent contractors, and critically, it takes away the rights of independent contractors to run their own business.

“The ‘employee-like’ measure represents one of the most signifcant and real attacks on the rights of self-employed and independent contractors.

“The proposed changes pose a serious threat,

introducing uncertainty, commercial risk, and negative consequences for the community, consumers, and an industry already grappling with disruptions, economic uncertainty, and high infation.

“Master Builders Australia strongly urges

the Federal Government to explicitly exclude the building and construction industry from their employeelike industrial law changes to protect the sector’s integrity and the rights of independent contractors,” said Ms Wawn.

JAPANESE

SEAFOOD POWERHOUSE INVESTS IN AUSSIE RED SEAWEED STARTUP

Australian seaweed startup Immersion Group has welcomed a cornerstone investment from Nissui Corporation to accelerate the production of the native red seaweed Asparagopsis.

Proceeds from the investment will be directed into the construction of a new onshore Asparagopsis production plant near Geelong in Victoria, expected to create up to 30 new jobs.

Nissui Corporation

chief executive Shingo Hamada said the

investment was an important step for the company to capitalise on the growing momentum behind Asparagopsis as a methane-reducing feed additive for ruminant livestock.

“We see an incredible opportunity to produce Asparagopsis, targeting premium beef markets in Australia and Japan”.

Mr Hamada said the investment would facilitate the expansion of a new seaweed division at Nissui.

“Nissui’s existing marketing and distribution channels

present an opportunity to develop a global Asparagopsis brand with Immersion Group, capable of servicing markets worldwide.”

Japan-based Nissui Corporation (TSE: 1332) was the secondlargest seafood producer globally in 2022 based on revenues of $8 billion.

Immersion Group CEO Scott Elliott said the Nissui investment would allow Immersion Group to rapidly scale the company’s proprietary onshore production technique for

Asparagopsis and move into other geographies globally.

“There are 1 billion cattle in the world, and to have a cornerstone investor and strategic partner in Nissui puts us at the forefront of servicing this unheralded demand.”

“Immersion Group was founded on a simple premise: we didn’t want to be the biggest Asparagopsis producer immediately, but we did want to be the best.” Asparagopsis from the production plant will be directed into supplying

trials in Australia and Japan. The proposed onshore plant will compliment Immersion Group’s existing operations in Portarlington and Queenscliff on Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula

and Perth in Western Australia.

The company delivers its onshore work in partnership with the University of Western Australia and Deakin University.

NSW CONSIDERS PENALTIES FOR IMPROPER DISCLOSURE OF CONFIDENTIAL GOVERNMENT TAX INFORMATION

Businesses and organisations caught disclosing confdential NSW Government taxation information could face new multimillion-dollar penalties under a plan being considered by the Minister for Finance.

The NSW Government currently consults with representative industry bodies as part of the consultation process on tax policy and legislation.

Taxation liaison groups are an important part of tax consultations. They provide an opportunity for experts in the private

sector to give input into changes to the tax regime.

Revenue NSW regularly consults with the NSW Law Society, the Tax Institute, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, CPA Australia, the Property Council of Australia (NSW) and an association representing several small business groups.

If the confdentiality of the process is not respected it could lead to businesses or individuals knowingly avoiding tax, obtaining unfair commercial advantages

or result in a loss of faith in the consultation process.

The Chief Commissioner of State Revenue has already been in touch with the chairs of the liaison groups to underscore the importance of confdentiality.

Minister for Finance

Courtney Houssos said:

“The NSW Government takes the confdentiality of sensitive taxation information extremely seriously and will not hesitate to come down hard on anyone who breaks trust with or takes

unfair advantage of the people of NSW.

“I am working with the Chief Commissioner of State Revenue to ensure that severe penalties will apply to advisors and organisations who seek commercial advantage by sharing confdential tax related information.

“We are developing a range of measures that will impose signifcant penalties for individuals and entities that unlawfully use or disclose sensitive or confdential tax information provided by the Government.

“We are going to pursue these changes swiftly and introduce penalties in the order of millions of dollars.

“These proposed multimillion-dollar penalties should serve as a frm warning for organisations

and businesses that we expect confdentiality arrangements to be honoured on behalf of the people of NSW. “These measures will safeguard the integrity of our tax system.”

Immersion Group CEO Scott Elliott and Nissui Corporation Chief Executive Shingo Hamada

Japanese seafood powerhouse invests in Aussie red seaweed startup

Ford Ranger or Volkswagen Amarok

BY JEFFREY GIBBS

The all-new secondgeneration Volkswagen Amarok is starting to roll into Aussie dealerships and while it shares many components with the Ford Ranger, there are more differences than initially meet the eye.

The sleek Volkswagen boasts a powerful 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, advanced Matrix LED headlights, dual 12-inch digital screens, and a more modern exterior design inspired by local tastes. The 2.3-litre powertrain produces a robust 222kW of power and 452Nm of

torque, and pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission to make for a surprisingly engaging and responsive drive. This engine does not come with the Ford Ranger and is available at the mid-range Style level (priced from $66,990 with either a 2.0-litre four-cylinder or a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel).

The Amarok’s exterior design is very different and features a sharpedged and modern aesthetic with bodywork below the window line being exclusive to the Amarok. The unique exterior works to create

a vehicle with toughness and muscularity, ideal for those who are looking for a car for daily commuting and off-roading.

Moreover, the sophisticated dual 12-infotainment and instrument cluster–screens are featured in the Style and more expensive variants, which is only offered on the pricier Ranger Platinum and Raptor variants.

Overall, the Volkswagen Amarok is a very attractive option for people looking for something stylish, powerful, and reliable.

With its powerful engine, advanced Matrix LED headlights, dual 12-inch digital screens, and a modern exterior design, this car is a great choice for both urban and off-road driving.

Unfortunately for customers in Australia, if they want a Ford Ranger they will need to wait, with buyers of almost all V6 variants facing “extended” wait times from the factory in Thailand.

Ford’s latest intel around new-vehicle delivery times indicates a wait list of up to 15 months for the more popular, high-spec

models, and up to a two year wait for vehicles in desired colours and with certain options.

Meanwhile, Volkswagen Australia commercial vehicle director Ryan Davies claims that despite global shipping and quarantine issues, Amarok supplies are healthy both in terms of production and vehicles already heading for Australia.

Most variants should have a delivery window of three to six months. The Ranger and Amarok are both top-selling utes in Australia, attracting millions of buyers a year.

However, the Ranger

is the more popular of the two, with an expected 50,000 units sold in a good year. The situation is reversed for the Amarok, with VW aiming for 10,000 units sold by 2023.

This should make the Amarok a rarer and more exclusive ute down the road. In terms of performance, the Amarok is an impressive ute with its unique suspension setup delivering a smooth ride.

Compare that to the Ranger, and it’s clear why there are so many fans of both vehicles.

Kia confirms Ute for Australia in 2025

BY JEFFREY GIBBS

Kia Motors Australia has confirmed plans to launch a new ute to the Australian market in 2025. The new ute is set to revolutionise the way Australians drive and experience the open road. Kia Motors have not released many details regarding the upcoming ute, but the company has stated that it will offer a luxurious experience and an innovative design to accommodate the needs of Australia’s SUV and pick-up truck buyers.

The new ute will be Kia’s first foray into ute territory and will expand

its incredible range of passenger vehicles in the Australian market. Kia Motors has an extensive

history of quality, reliability, performance, and value for money that have helped them

become one of the leading car manufacturers in the country. The new ute will adopt the same

strong body and sleek look of Kia’s current sedans and SUVs while also delivering a unique style that will stand out from the standard pick-up truck market.

The cabin will feature cutting-edge technologies and materials that will drive comfort and convenience for drivers and passengers alike. Kia’s ute will have the capacity to transport larger items with more ease than a standard car, while also offering the dependability and safety that is expected from the brand.

The ute’s off-road capabilities will be tested

for Australian conditions to ensure that it can handle the rough terrain that is found in remote parts of the country. It will also be powered by the latest engine technology to ensure that it has the efficiency and power to tackle any trip. Kia Motors is yet to announce the official release date for its ute in Australia but are confident that it will deliver an exciting new option to the pick-up truck market.

This announcement marks the start of an exciting new chapter in the Kia Motors’ Australian automotive journey.

Ford Australia Pushes Back New Mustang Release to Early 2024

BY JEFFREY GIBBS

The much-anticipated sixth-gen Mustang closed its order books in 2022, leaving prospective buyers waiting until early 2024 for the new model’s arrival. Australian delivery of the ‘S650’ Mustang was originally

going to take place by late 2023, but due to global production delays this has been pushed back to the first quarter of 2024. Ford has officially confirmed the new timeline, with the car set to roll off the production line in Michigan’s Flat Rock Plant by the end of 2021

and arrive in Australia a few months later. Customers will however have some information on pricing before the year ends, as Ford is likely to announce prices in the second quarter of 2023.

• 5.0 V8 and 2.3 turbo carry over with

improvements.

• Ecoboost now auto-only

• Unique designs differentiate GT from Ecoboost

• Drifter handbrake standard

• Arriving Australia early 2024, not late 2023 as anticipated

Lexus Accelerates Electrification with Launch of Second All-Electric SUV

BY JEFFREY GIBBS

Lexus has made its second bold step into Australia’s EV market, launching the luxury-focused RZ 450e mid-sized battery-electric SUV priced from $123,000 plus on road costs.

The RZ BEV follows the brand’s first all-electric model, the UX 300e, which went on sale late last year and becomes part of Lexus’ commitment to offer electrification on all its models in Australia by 2030. Lexus’ RZ also beats the Toyota BZ4X BEV– with which it shares the platform and some drivetrain components – to market by about six months. Lexus Australia CEO John Pappas said at the RZ launch in Adelaide this week that the SUV “marks a turning point in Lexus’ history.” “It is the first Lexus designed from the outset as a BEV.

It also brings all the fine qualities of refinement and luxury expected of the brand andpackages it in a car that redefines the driving relationship. The RZ is built on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform – to be used in the BZ4X and Subaru Solterra – but unlike these two, comes exclusively with two electric motors and constant all-wheel drive. Lexus has loaded the RZ with all the luxury features and a comprehensive safety

inventory built under its ‘takumi’ craftsmanship and mandate for high build quality. Externally it carries the decade-old ‘spindle grILLE’ theme but the shape appears only as a body-coloured panel and not as an operating intake for an engine’s cooling system.

Mr Pappas said the ‘reinterpretation’ of the design language of previous Lexus models still retained the brand’s distinctive cues while marking it as “something very new”. Two variants are available – the RZ 450e Luxury ($123,000 plus on-road costs) and the RZ 450e Sports Luxury ($135,000 plus costs) with the only option being black dual-tone paint for an additional $4200. Both versions have the same drivetrain – two motors each powering the front and rear axles with a combined 230kW and 435Nm of torque. Lexus said that almost 20 years of expertise

in battery and hybrid technology is within the RZ “resulting in a battery designed to perform at the highest levels and backed with a leading 10-year/ unlimited km warranty.”

Standard equipment for the Luxury includes 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights with static auto-levelling and headlight washers, LED daytime running lights, rear spoiler, rear privacy glass and driver’s side auto-dimming with auto power folding function. NuLuxe upholstery is standard in both variants but varies in its look and feel. The Luxury comes with ‘NuLuxe’ upholstery, eight-way driver and front passenger power adjustable seats with two-way driver lumbar adjustment, 14-inch multimedia display, 10-speaker Panasonic audio with digital radio, wired Android Auto and wireless Apple Carplay, five USB-C ports, a wireless phone

charger and a smart key card. The Sports Luxury adds 20-inch alloy wheels, acoustic glass, dynamic auto-levelling headlights with cornering function, Ultrasuede (vegan) interior trim, heated outer rear seats, ventilated driver and front passenger seats, heated steering wheel and the new radiant front heating feature for front passengers.

The upmarket version also gets a 13-speaker Mark Levinson hi-fi premium audio system, three-position driver’s seat memory, touch sensitive steering wheel controls, head-up display, adaptive high-beam system, intelligent park assist and a panoramic roof with dimmable glass. Mr Pappas said the ‘drive-bywire’ electronic steering system shown in overseas markets is likely to come to Australia as an option but is “12 to 18 months away.” He said the hold-up was related to meeting ADR compliance.

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Blow your own crumpet

LastThursday was International Chardonnay Day, but that’s enough about wine, let’s talk about crumpets.

People forget about the importance of the humble Golden Crumpet and how it has the ability to shape lives and meld families together or indeed tear them apart. So it was with shock and dread that I recently noticed a slight change in the breakfast staple.

Let’s be clear on two things frst however : one, there is no other type of crumpet than Golden

Yeringberg Yarra

Valley Chardonnay 2020, $69. Possibly a new vintage due soon, but this cool climate chardonnay has enough going on to keep you interested but not so much that you are overwhelmed. You can

Crumpet and secondly it shouldn’t and indeed isn’t restricted to merely breakfast food. It is equally a staple of after-school/ work snack, or midnight, wintry, fridge-forage food.

While we’re at it, let’s be clear on two other things about crumpets - and this is where they have the most potential to either unite or destroy families and create relationships or, alas, cause their breakdown.

The frst contentious aspect of crumpets is what to put on them.

You should not put anything on a crumpet

think enjoy thinking about it, or just enjoy it. 9.5/10.

Yeringberg Yarra

Valley Pinot Noir 2021, $98. The crest on the labels of Yeringberg has the Latin phrase Ferme Droit, which could translate to ‘always

Max Crus is a Clarence Valley-based wine writer and Grape Expectations is now in its 26th year of publication. Find out more about Max or sign up for his weekly reviews and musings by visiting maxcrus.com.au

except butter. The only question you need to ask is how much. This too is divisive…”do you want a heart attack with breakfast Max?” is a common refrain.

Some people put honey or jam or, heaven forbid, Vegemite on them. They are wrong.

The second; cooking crumpets is a very individual thing but if you don’t share the same toasting standards with someone, don’t even think about sharing a house together let alone a life or worse, children, because crumpet preference is

right’ or perhaps just right. How apt for such a polished pinot. 9.6/10.

Mr Riggs Coonawarra Clare Valley Watervale Riesling, 2022, $25. Bright fresh and colourful riesling, redolent of our newish teal parliamentary

clearly genetic. My dad loves his crumpet like his toast, burned a fair bit. Nothing stupid mind you, more a controlled burn like indigenous Australians used so successfully to manage our landscape for 60,000 years before white man arrived and told them how to do it properly, which we’ve been doing ever since, and continue with despite experiencing raging bushfres every now and then and the greatest level of mammalian extinction in the world.

But what would they know? Of course white man

members and just as refreshing. 9.3/10.

Mr Riggs McLaren

Vale ‘The Gaffer’ Shiraz 2020, $30. Very McLaren Vale, very shiraz, and a perfect wine for bingeing movies. But remember to watch the credits and fnd out who

knows better, according to Peter Dutton, who apparently is being advised by PWC on the matter. But I digress.

I too like my crumpets burned, but this really sets Ms L. off, much as it does our smoke alarm. See, genetic and divisive.

And this is where things have changed. It used to take two goes of the toaster on ‘max’ to get the right colour and texture in a crumpet, now it’s brown after one! Something is different that cannot be explained by climate change.

the gaffer is. Pretty good value. 9.4/10.

Oxford Landing SA Shiraz 2021, $13.

Sustainably grown and vegan seems to be a catchcry of labels lately, so anyone can lay claim to doing their bit for the planet just by drinking

Max Crus

Whatever is going on noone seems to know. Could it be a subtle marketing change like diminishing the size of Wagon Wheels and fddling the recipe of Ginger Nut biscuits?

More investigation is required but we need to be vigilant, or the bloody smoke alarm will go off again.

Meanwhile, what have crumpets got to do with wine? Nothing. There is no known wine accompaniment. Lucky it was International Chardonnay Day this week.

wine. 8.9/10.

Zema Coonawarra Cluny Cabernet Merlot 2018, $25. Ha, try saying that ten times quickly… Coonawarra Cluny Cabernet after a few glasses. Comfortable classic cabernet for connoisseurs. 9.3/10.

In remote Pilbara country in Western Australia, troubled 16-year-old Indigenous girl, Murra, fnds herself abandoned after an explosive incident with her addict mother. On the cusp of being lost in the child protection system, an unusual lifeline is thrown her way by her uncle Ian, the local cop, in the form of a unique photo safari. Before Murra knows it, she is careening down a dusty highway with a minibus full of at-risk teens and two charismatic team leaders. Will this be the lifeline Murra needs or the catalyst for her demise?

An uplifting comingof-age road movie about unconventional friendships, frst crushes and fnding who you are on the road less travelled.

Main Cast:

Mark Coles Smith, Tasma Walton, Shantae Barnes-Cowan, Carlos Sanson Jr., Ngaire

Pigram, Pedrea

Jackson, Mikayla Levy, Andrew Wallace

How heartbreak healed through music: Jackson’s music debut

Music wasn’t even on Jackson’s radar growing up. Even a year ago, he’d call you crazy if you told him he was on the cusp of releasing a debut album. He went through a devastating heartbreak and sought music to fnd solace. Ideas began to fow and songs began to write. And now, within a year, Jackson’s releasing his debut album, ‘Days Drift Waves Hit’, on August xx.

It’s the result of countless hours behind the acoustic guitar. Searching and fnding an identity which resonates with what he set out to achieve.

The best way to describe the album would be as half rhythm acoustic and half rock. And when describing what makes the album tick, Jackson was candid. “This album is about looking at who I am as a person and what my values are,” he explained.

“As I continued to

write more songs, it was the same themes that kept coming up in the lyrics. The album is an exploration of my relationships, particularly with my family.” This culminates in the hit song ‘Littl emme’ – a love letter and heartfelt promise written to his adopted niece. It’s a song that speaks about the enduring power of love and the strong connections that remain unshaken, even in the face of life’s obstacles. Through this song, Jackson expresses his intention to come back to her and reinforces their unbreakable bond.

‘Days Drift Waves Hit’ is an 8-song journey. The album was produced by his good friend Yarn, a producer based out of Mullumbimby.

Yarn’s resume speaks for itself, with a long list of accolades including working with a range of talented, homegrown musicians.

For more information and news about Jackson, you can visit the website for regular updates and jump on his Instagram at Jackson_untapped. The album, ‘Days Drift Waves Hit’, is available for purchase on both CD and vinyl from August xx at jacksonuntapped.

PH: 6686 9600

ballinafaircinemas.com.au

Thurs

BOOK CLUB 2: THE NEXT CHAPTER M 108 Min

FAST X M 141 Min

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3 M 149 Min

JOHN FARNHAM: FINDING THE VOICE M 95 Min

SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE PG 140 Min

SWEET AS M 88 Min

THE LITTLE MERMAID PG 135 Min

BYRON MUSIC FESTIVAL RELEASES FULL LIST OF WEEK-LONG SIDE EVENT LINE-UPS

beachfront event in Dening Park. Spanning all genres and demographics, the program is designed to appeal to and be accessible to locals.

The full line-up is:

LAUNCH PARTY -

Friday 16 June, The Great Northern Hotel (+18, Free Entry)

Flying Machine Off Judy

Soy Division Stoned Waves Ratmongers Fauve

Billy Bailey Cecile

Kira Sunday Ben Walsh

AFTER PARTY - Saturday

Birren RECOVERY DAY/ CLOSING PARTY –

Sunday 18 June, Treehouse (All ages, Free entry)

Summer Woods Felicity

Lawless Animal Ventura Burning Hands

Byron Music Festival has announced the full epic line-up for its’ satellite events to be held throughout Byron Bay over the festival weekend 16-18 June.

Over three days Byron

Music Festival hosts a diverse line-up of all-local musicians throughout venues including Treehouse

17 June, Byron Bay Services Club (All ages, Free entry)

DJ Sun Jazz Velvet Trip

Colbey

The New Language The Versace Boys Tahlia

Matheson

AFTER AFTER PARTY –

Saturday 17 June, Saltwater Social Club (+18, $10 Entry)

DJ’s into the night (still to be announced)

“We’re so excited and proud to showcase as many local artists as we can over the festival weekend. The diversity of musical talent in our area is immense. Many of these artists are on the precipice of exciting careers so we want locals to get out see them, support them, and celebrate them while they can!” said Festival Director Nick Sergi. BMF is an all-ages, all-inclusive, multivenue, weekend-long music festival combined with a fagship cultural placemaking event that celebrates the immense creative talent of Byron Bay and beyond.

BMF is supported by Byron Music, Create NSW, Byron Bay Brewery, Stone & Wood, Husk Distillers, Flip Insurance, Hnry, Treehouse Belongil, McGrath Real Estate, SAE, Jonson Lane, The Great Northern Hotel, Byron Bay Services Club, Salty’s, Hertz, McWilliams Wines, Azteca Margarita, Altos Tequila, Explore Byron Bay, Humantix, ByronBay.com, and Bay Fm.

EVENT INFO:

Byron Music Festival 2023

Friday 16 – Sunday 18 June

2023

Main Event: Dening Park, Byron Bay, Arakwal

Bundjalung Country Main event date: Saturday 17

June, 11am – 8:30pm

Tickets (frst release):

General Admission = $55

Youth (7-14 yo) = $20

Under 6’s = Free

Carers = Free Info: www. byronmusicfestival.com.au

at Belongil, The Great Northern Hotel, Byron Bay Services Club, Saltwater Social Club, and an iconic

COMMUNITY BEACH CLEAN-UP, BEACH SOCCER GAME & BBQ (Co-hosted with Positive Change for Marine Life)

– Sunday 18 June, Dening Park & Main Beach (All ages, Free)

Byron Music Festival is fundraising for Bay Fm and Byron Youth Service. The fundraising goal is $10,000. Any individual or business who would like to donate a prize to the mega raffe (drawn on Sat 17 June) can register via info@ byronmusicfestival.com.au

BIG RED BASH ‘NUTBUSH’ WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT SET TO BE BIGGEST AUSTRALIAN TRIBUTE TO TINA TURNER

Thousands of boot-scooters to hit the red desert sands at July Birdsville Big Red Bash

With the passing of legendary performer Tina Turner Birdsville Big Red Bash attendees and organisers are rallying to ensure a new world record is set to one of her biggest hits – Nutbush City Limits on Thursday July 6, 2023.

The Nutbush City Limits dance world record attempt will be a highlight of the fnal day of the sold-out three-day 10th anniversary Birdsville Big Red Bash event – with more than 4,084 boot-scooting Nutbush dancers needed to beat the current record that was set at the 2022 Birdsville Big Red Bash.

The Nutbush City Limits world record attempt is set to form Australia’s biggest tribute to Tina Turner with the spectacular dance off set to take place below the Simpson Desert’s legendary 40-metre-high Big Red sand dune – the largest of its kind in the world.

The Nutbush has collectively raised more

than $500,000 for the Royal Flying Doctors since 2016 and this year it’s hoped that around 5,000 people will come together to Nutbush at the Birdsville Big Red Bash – adjudicated by the Australian Book of Records.

Last year punters kicked up the dust in wild and wacky costumes dancing to Tina Turner’s 1973 soul classic – with organisers expecting many revellers will come as their favourite incarnation of Tina at this year’s events.

“We were very sad to hear of Tina Turner’s passing earlier this morning. She was an incredible performer and her Nutbush City Limits song and associated world record attempt is a huge, fun part of our events. We always get quite a few people dressed up as Tina for the Nutbush world record attempt, but we’re now expecting even more this year. She was so well loved and it’s

always an amazing call to action when her Nutbush song is played out across the festival sites and thousands of boot scooters came together to dance their way into a new world record. Our Mundi Mundi Bash Mad Max Dress up in August is also sure to have a huge representation of Tina’s iconic Mad Max look. I’m sure she would have been proud that the Nutbush raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Royal Flying Doctors, and that this legacy will live on,” said Steve Donovan, Operations Manager for the Outback Music Festival Group who stage the Birdsville Big Red Bash and Broken Hill Mundi Mundi Bash.

The 4,084 Nutbush City Limits world record set at last year’s Birdsville Big Red Bash annihilated the previous mark of 2,878 dancers, which was set at the 2021 Big Red Bash. The Broken Hill Mundi

Mundi Bash staged an epic ‘State of Origin’ battle to try and wrest the world record from the Queensland event however ultimately fell short by 364. The Nutbush has collectively raised more than $500,000 for the Royal Flying Doctors since 2016 and this year it’s hoped that around 5,000 people will come together to Nutbush at the Birdsville Big Red Bash – adjudicated by the Australian Book of Records

Felicity Lawless

Flying Machine

CANCER SURVIVAL RATES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AT AN ALL-TIME HIGH

Survival rates for adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer are at an all-time high, with 90 per cent of young people diagnosed with cancer alive fve years after diagnosis.

According to the latest Australian Institute for Health and Welfare cancer in adolescents and young adults in Australia report, which reviewed national cancer outcomes for people aged 15-24 years, the improvement in survival was most dramatic for blood cancers where fve-year survival had increased from 64 per cent in the 1980’s to 91 per cent in the most recent reporting period.

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said NSW’s cancer specialists, hospitals and community agencies are committed to supporting young

people with cancer and helping them thrive as adults.

“NSW has some of the best cancer survival rates in the world and that simply wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and passion of our state’s health professionals and cancer researchers,” Mr Park said.

“To see so many young people survive cancer is incredibly encouraging, but work continues to achieve our vision of a time when no young person loses their life to this disease, and they can go on to live long productive lives not overshadowed by ongoing side-effects or fear of another cancer diagnosis.”

Professor Tracey O’Brien, NSW Chief Cancer Offcer and

CEO of Cancer Institute NSW says that while the overall survival increase has been dramatic there is still much to do to improve survival rates and address the long-term impacts experienced by these young people.

“On average in NSW, one adolescent or young adult will be told they have cancer every day. Hearing this at any age is devastating, but it is tougher when you are also dealing with heightened physical, emotional, social, educational and sexual changes,” Professor O’Brien said. “Facing cancer treatment while also having to consider the impact their diagnosis and treatment could have on their future health, fertility and careers is challenging and

heartbreaking.”

Between 1984 and the current reporting period, rates of colorectal cancer increased almost fourfold (nine to 33 cases per million) and for thyroid cancers almost threefold (13 to 35 cases per million). Survival for these cancers, which rank in the top fve most common cancers seen in this age group, was high at 95 per cent and 99 per cent respectively. While overall survival had improved dramatically, there were certain cancers where survival rates remain lower, such as brain, bone and soft tissue sarcomas.

“Overall, these results are very encouraging and give great hope, but we need to be mindful that people are not statistics, and progress made

in treatment of some cancers like bone cancer is less positive, with a third of young people not surviving to fve years after their diagnosis,”

Professor O’Brien said.

“We will continue to focus on research and innovation to improve outcomes for all young people diagnosed with cancer.”

NSW has a state-wide multidisciplinary youth cancer service with hubs at Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney

Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Westmead Hospital, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, John Hunter Hospital, Calvary Mater Hospital, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Chris O’Brien Lifehouse.

Over the last fve years, the NSW Government through the Cancer Institute NSW has invested $4 million in AYA cancer research and $5 million annually into Cancer Clinical Trials.

NEW SKIN CANCER CAMPAIGN TARGETS OUTDOOR WORKERS

Outdoor workers are exposed to three times more UV radiation than indoor workers, with the Cancer Institute NSW urging people to take action to reduce their skin cancer risk.

The Cancer Institute NSW’s new hard-hitting ‘Change Your Routine’ video campaign warns of the dangers of skin cancer, with supportive resources for workers and employers that model how, when and where to protect their skin at work.

Professor Tracey

O’Brien, Chief Cancer

Offcer for NSW and CEO of Cancer Institute

NSW says you may not be able to see or feel UV, but it’s ever present,

even on cool and cloudy days.

“It’s a misconception that UV radiation is only harmful during summer, with high UV index levels present in NSW from August to May,”

Professor O’Brien said. “Ninety-fve per cent of melanoma and 99% of non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by overexposure to UV radiation from the sun and for those working in agriculture, construction, roads and our backyards, the risk of developing skin cancer is even greater.

“Fortunately, most skin cancers can be prevented if we follow the advice that has been drummed into us for decades –

when outdoors, slip on protective clothing, slop on SPF 50+ sunscreen, slap on a wide brimmed hat, seek shade and slide on sunglasses. It can truly save lives.”

Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, with two out of three Australians treated for skin cancer during their lifetime. Not all skin cancers can simply be cut out, with men over 40 years of age 2.5 times more likely to die from melanoma than women of the same age.

Professor O’Brien says UV radiation is a major workplace hazard and employers have a duty of care to protect their

workers.

“There are simple measures employers can take to protect their staff, like setting up shade areas using gazebos or awnings, attaching sun protection to helmets, providing employees with sunscreen and breathable full length work wear and ensuring workers follow other

sun safety measures,”

Professor O’Brien said.

Construction worker Corey Jane, 29, has had 20 skin cancers removed from almost every part of his body and calls on fellow outdoor workers to make sun protection part of their daily routine.

“My attitude towards sun safety since my diagnosis has changed drastically. It’s not uncool to be the person with the big hat, the sunglasses, the long sleeve shirts, because at the end of the day, that person has a better chance of living a longer, healthier life,” Corey said.

“This campaign will be hitting the airwaves and reaching out to workers and employers online,” Minister for Health Ryan Park said.

“The campaign will dispel myths about the risks of skin cancer as well as provide simple and practical steps for workers and their

employers to take to prevent it.”

“Make checking the UV index part of your morning routine before you head to work. If its High, then cover up and protect yourself,” Minister for Work Health & Safety Sophie Cotsis said.

“It only takes a few minutes to protect yourself from the harmful UV rays and it could save you a lifetime of battling skin cancer.

“Worker health and safety isn’t just about hardhats and harnesses, it is also about sun protection and avoiding overexposure to UV on the job.”

The general rule is to protect your skin from the sun when the UV index is high, at three or above. Daily UV index levels can be monitored at myuv. com.au. More information on the ‘Change Your Routine’ campaign is available here.

Growing bulbs is a rewarding activity for gardeners in the Northern Rivers

With the right conditions, these hardy plants can thrive in many different soils and climates. Bulbs have been used for centuries for their beauty, colour, and hardiness. In Australia, many bulb varieties have adapted to thrive in temperate climates.

Therefore, when deciding which bulbs to plant in the Northern Rivers, it is important to understand the particular climate, soils, and seasons of this region. The frst step is to research what varieties of bulbs grow well in the Northern Rivers. Easy to maintain varieties such as daffodils, iris, and tulips, are some of the most popular choices. Other more exotic varieties such as freesias, paper whites and anemones can also be grown successfully in the area. Once the variety is chosen, the right time of year to plant is important.

The majority of common bulbs should be planted in spring, which is usually from September to November.

Specialty bulbs such as gladioli, paper whites and freesias are best planted in early Autumn, which is from April to May. Once the season is decided, preparation of the garden space is necessary. Most bulbs prefer a spot in full sun or some morning sun. The area should also be mulched well to retain moisture and the soil should be well-draining and of a neutral pH.

Once the soil is prepped, dig holes that are about 5 cm deep, leaving space between each bulb. Place each bulb into the hole, ensuring the pointed side is facing up, and cover with soil. Care should be taken to ensure the soil is frmed around the bulb so that the plant is secure. Watering is then essential to ensure the bulbs can thrive. It is important to keep soil moist but avoid overly wet conditions which can cause bulbs to rot. Once the bulbs have been planted, with the right care and conditions they will begin to fourish.

Daffodils and tulips should begin to bloom within two to three months and other varieties such as paper whites and freesias will likely take longer to

fower. With a little extra effort, gardeners in the Northern Rivers can enjoy the beauty of bulbs for years to come. With the right selection, timing and care, these plants will continue to thrive in their new home.

Our pick:

Are you feeling the chill during winter?

There are still ways to add a cheerful fourish of colour to their garden during the coldest time of year! There are several winter-fowering bulbs that provide a brilliant display in the colder months and are easy to plant. First on the list of must have winter fowering bulbs is the Daffodil.

Not only are they a popular symbol of spring, but they also fower during winter in many parts of Australia including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Darwin. A bonus is that they need minimal care once planted - just make sure the soil is moist and they will produce a cheerful yellow fower for months to come.

Puschkinia scilloides var, libanotica, or Star of Bethlehem, is another great winter fowering plant.

These bulbs produce star shaped, white fowers on delicate long stems. They require full sunlight throughout the day to thrive and while the stems can be a bit foppy, they are ideal for used in containers as a decorative border or feature in any garden. The snowdrop or Galanthus nivalis is a delicate-looking bulb with white petals that

come with a hint of pale green or yellow. The most remarkable thing about these bulbs is that they are able to fower in temperatures as cold as -10 degrees Celsius. Not only that, they do best in partial shade and moist soil making them the perfect option for Australia’s winter garden. If a resident of Australia is looking for something a bit more vibrant than white, then a winterfowering Cyclamen should be on the list.

These colourful plants are available in shades of pink, purple, white and even bi-coloured which makes them incredibly attractive in the garden. They prefer cool temperatures and require a bit more care than the other options, but they are worth it when it comes to adding an extra splash of colour during the winter months. Finally, the tiny but eye-catching Muscari or Grape Hyacinth is the perfect fower for winterfowering bulbs.

These purple, bellshaped fowers look almost too delicate for the Australian winter and will add a soft and subtle charm to any garden! They require the same care as the snowdrop, and thrive in cool temperatures and moist soil. With such an array of winter-fowering bulbs, there is something for everyone.

You can easily add a bit of cheer during the gloomy winter months by investing in some of these stunning winter-fowering bulbs. With a little bit of effort and the right bulbs, the garden can return to its colourful best even in the coldest time of year!

Daffodil

Snowdrop or Galanthus nivalis

Cyclamen

Grape Hyacinth

LAYERED VEGETABLE BAKE

11 Ingredients

• Olive oil, to grease

• 2 medium (about 300g) beetroots

• 480g orange sweet potato (kumara), peeled, thinly sliced

• 400g pumpkin, deseeded, peeled, thinly sliced crossways

• 2 parsnips, peeled, thinly sliced

20m prep 1h 15m cook

• 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced lengthways

• 1 large (about 200g)carrot,peeled,thinly sliced

• 1 large brown onion, halved, thinly sliced

• 3 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup loosely packed chopped fresh mixed herbs(such as parsley, thyme and oregano)

• 125ml (1/2 cup) reduced-fat thickened cream

3 Method Steps

STEP 1

• Preheat oven to 160°C.

• Brush a 3L (12 cup) capacity ovenproof dish with oil to grease.

• Wearing rubber gloves to avoid staining your hands,trim, peel and thinly slice beetroot.

STEP 2

• Layer the sweet potato, pumpkin, beetroot, parsnip, fennel, carrot and

onion with the garlic and herbs in the prepared dish, drizzling each layer with a little of the cream.

• Top with another drizzle of cream.

STEP 3

• Roast, uncovered, in preheated oven for 1 1/4 hours or until vegetables are golden brown and tender when tested with a small sharp knife.

European Investors Capitalizing on Australia’s Property Market

spike in the number of new properties being purchased by international buyers, with the market share now being at 7.9%.

Furthermore, 25% of Chinese mainland UHNWI’s and 22% of UHNWI’s from Hong Kong are exploring options of applying for a second passport or citizenship. Overall, the Australian property market shows continued

signs of growth despite the global economic after-effects of the pandemic, maintaining hope for Chinese buyers looking to invest in real estate within Australia. Property pricing remains a signifcant factor in international investment, and key insight into the pool of global property ownership will no doubt bring further stability to the market in the following year.

BY JEFFREY GIBBS

Foreign investment in the Australian real estate market is growing, with a new report indicating which countries are leading the way.

Surprisingly, the nation with the highest number of property buyers obtaining Australian real estate valued over $US2 million ($A3 million) is not from Asia, as was once thought, but rather the Europe.

The Wealth Report 2023 compiled by global property insights platform Knight Frank, revealed that Europe is outranking other nations when it comes to multimillion dollar real estate investments in Australia, followed by the US.

Though no exact fgures are available, from market data on realestate.com.au it can be deduced that search interest for Australian properties has increased by 30 per cent globally.

Nadine Goldfoot, managing partner at immigration legal group Fragomen in the UK, said the Covid-19 pandemic has driven many Europeans to move to Australia. “The ‘digital nomad’ boom has brought many more people into the ambit of global mobility – and countries have responded by fnding new ways to attract them,” she said.

Alasdair Pritchard from Knight Frank commented that high volatility and unpredictability in Europe’s property market has triggered more investors to purchase properties overseas.

“Wealthy individuals living in unstable regions have always sought a ‘Plan B’ – homes in the US, Australia or Europe that can enable the transition to a new life if needed,” he said.

For the UK and US, the main property hotspots include Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Gold Coast, and Brisbane region which includes Brisbane City, Ipswich, Logan City, Moreton Bay, and Redland City.

Interestingly, there is also a rise in searches for rental properties, with year-on-year increase of 34.2 per cent.

Data from PropTrack also reveals that other countries like Spain, Canada and Hong Kong are also making their presence known in the Australian real estate market. Overall, there is a growing interest in overseas investment in Australia, with the UK and US leading the charge, and Europe showing its eagerness to move Down Under. It is evident that the Covid-19 pandemic is playing a signifcant role in the sudden shift of foreign buyers vying for the

luxurious Australian real estate.

As the Australian property market continues to rebound, hope remains for potential Chinese buyers in the coming year. According to Knight Frank’s analysis, Singapore and China had the third and fourth highest number of overseas buyers, refecting the appeal of Australia’s proximity to Asian nations.

Senior director and head of residential and private offce at Knight Frank in Singapore, Nicholas Keong, said buying property in Australia has become more popular due to its desirable lifestyle, weather, and education. PropTrack data shows that Chinese propertyseekers are particularly interested in purchasing a home in Melbourne, followed by Sydney, Adelaide, Box Hill (Victoria) and Brisbane.

In their Attitudes Survey, Knight Frank also reported that 86% of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWI) from Malaysia have expressed interest in buying real estate in Australia, along with 36% from Singapore and 34% from the Chinese mainland.

Victoria Garrett, head of residential at Knight Frank Asia-

Pacifc, commented that domestic buyers have been slow to return to the Australian prestige residential market, but that inquiry from foreign buyers has since increased.

This news comes alongside National Australian Bank’s (NAB) survey results, which indicate a

Childers

• 56.1501 ha or 138.75 acres

• 47.22ha or 116.68 acres under trees

• 13,600 2 year old trees with spacing 10 x 3.5

• 160 ML Water Allocation 70 psi at outlet

• Underground mains & submains (poly piping with droppers & fushing taps at each end)

• Pump Shed at outlet - 50hp Electric motor & pump (not used) mainly water with mains pressure

• Large highset Queenslander Timber home, 4

2 bathrooms, 2 offces & Solar System

• Shed 10m x 7m open front

• P.O.A.

QUICK CROSSWORD

6 Bottle for the table (6)

7 Allowing (8)

8 Author of short pieces (8)

13 Teacher (10)

16 Relating to time (8)

17 Actress, – Jolie (8)

18 Experienced people (8)

21 Cooing bird (6)

SUDOKU

22 Antenna (6)

23 Exacting (6)

26 Slight (4)

1 In what century did Australia implement the eight-hour work day for all industries?

2 Which famous poem contains the lines ’The time has come,’ the Walrus said/’To talk of many things:/Of shoes and ships and sealing wax/ Of cabbages and kings’?

3 What is the largest city square in the world?

4 In March of which year did the Ansett Australia Group cease operating?

5 The Komodo dragon (pictured) inhabits ve islands, including the island of Komodo, in which country?

6 What three colours are on the Jamaican ag?

7 Which sought-after medal depicts three men with their hands on each other’s shoulders?

8 What is the collective term for the odourless, colourless, single-atom gases such as helium?

9 In rowing, which member steers and coordinates the rhythm of the rowers?

10 What eld of study is concerned with moral issues of biological research and medical practice?

ACROSS

1 Skeletons are made of it (4)

5 Nautical hail (4)

6 Harass (4)

7 Performs (4) DOWN

1 Poet (4)

2 US state; capital Columbus (4)

3 Junction (4)

4 Facial features (4)

WORD FIND No. 147

The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included, and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Secret message:

WORD FILL

Each number corresponds to a letter. Can you crack the code?

CROSS MATH

No.

HIDDEN WORD

Solve all the clues and an eight-letter word will be spelled out.

1 A dangerous weapon used in Star Wars, a light-something

2 This bad Sith Lord was once a Jedi; Dooku, not Dracula!

3 A star ghter, not the B-wing, X-wing or Y-wing

4 A small vehicle for one pilot used for races in The Phantom Menace

5 Name the character: a small, mean junk dealer and slave owner with wings

6 The big hairy wookie is called Chew-what?

7 R2D2 is one of these, and so is C3PO

8 What are the small teddy bear creatures in Return of the Jedi?

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW...

1. For her role in which TV show did Tapsell win Most Outstanding Newcomer and Best New Talent Logie Awards?

A. Black Comedy

B. Cleverman

C. Redfern Now

D. Love Child

2. In which Australian children’s series does she voice the main character?

A. Bluey

B. Little J & Big Cuz

C. Mustangs FC

D. Grace Beside Me

3. What is the title of Tapsell’s memoir, released in April 2020?

A. Any Ordinary Day

B. A Question of Colour

C. Top End Girl

D. A Bigger Picture

4. Which Bridesmaids actor did she star alongside in the hit musical TheSapphires?

A. Kristen Wiig

B. Rose Byrne

C. Rebel Wilson

D. Chris O’Dowd

Death Notice

HUNT, PETER JOSEPH

Passed away peacefully on ursday 18th May 2023 at his own home, with his beloved wife Ann beside him. Aged 88 years

Loved father of Tom, Jim & Alison. Cherished Grandpa to Fergus and Henry, and (Gracie the cat!)

Loved and sadly missed by all his family and friends.

‘Rest in Peace’

As per Peter’s wishes a private service has been held.

In Memoriam Death Notice Funeral Notice

In Memoriam

LAMB: Charles William

24.10.1934 to 6.5.2023

Passed away peacefully on Saturday 6th May 2023 at e Richmond Lodge, Casino. Aged 88 Years. Beloved husband of Evei. Much loved father and father-in-law of Julie and Tony, Philip and Sally. Cherished Pop of his grandchildren Eloise, Alex, Stephanie and Christopher, and great grandchildren Tyler, Matilda, Ashton and Zoe.

Loved brother of Robert (dec) and Beryl.

“A faithful husband, loving father, grandfather and great grandfather, and a trusted friend. He will be greatly missed”

According to Charlies wishes a family service was held on 26th May 2023

CRIMMINS BARRY JOHN

30.6.1932 – 24.5.2023

Passed away peacefully, in the care of his loving family, at Lismore base Hospital, aged 90 years.

Loved and loving husband of Annette for 59 years. Adored father & father in-law of Anthony & Jennifer, Mark & Sharon, Matthew & Angela, and Christine & Rob Cook.

Cherished poppy Baz to his grandchildren Hollie, Alexander; Cody, Riley, Jack; Chloe, and Charlotte.

Loved brother & brother in-law of Bob and Maree, Betty & Jerry Boyle (both Dec’d), Brian & Rae Doring (both Dec’d) and Bruce & Marie Stewart (both Dec’d). Loved Uncle of their families.

Family and friends are invited to attend the Requiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul for Barry, to be held at Our Lady Help of Christians, Catholic Church, Union Street, South Lismore, Monday 5th June 2023 commencing at 10:00 AM. Followed by private family Interment

,,Biey

This page is dedicated to all those that have passed

Position Vacant

Cook / Catering positions Care / AIN positions

Richmond Lodge, Casino (30 beds)

What a relief! e Federal Government recently announced that aged care sta are set to receive the recognition they deserve, with wages for aged care sta set to increase by 15% in July.

We are looking for new team members to join our small but friendly home. Most importantly you will be in a position to bring a high level of service, care and satisfaction to our residents in their later years, supported by a fabulous team working for a not-for-pro t organisation that has been in the caring business for over 80 years.

Cook / Kitchen Sta

We need great cooks & capable kitchen hands.

Essential:

• Knowledge in providing nutrition to the elderly (incl. special diets)

• Working knowledge of HACCP, but not essential.

• Ability to work independently with demonstrated cooking abilities.

• Flexible and happy to work a rotating roster.

• A passion for caring for others and delivering great food!

Care Services Sta / AINs

Essential:

• Caring compassionate individuals.

• A desire and willingness to work with each resident to empower them to continue to do the things that they love.

• Current First Aid Certi cate desirable.

• A Certi cate III in Aged Care or Individual Support (or working towards) Team player who is highly motivated with excellent communication skills

• Availability to work various shi s across various days

Please forward your expressions of interest and CV to the Care Manager admin.richmond@northcoast.upa.org.auenquiries welcome to 02 6662 1937

BEEF BREEDER SALE LISMORE SALEYARDS

Registered Nurse (30 beds)

We’re excited about the Federal Government’s announcement to increase wages for RNs and are now looking for the right person to join our clinical team. Wages are set to increase by 15% in July.

Our RNs enjoy working closely with sta , consumers and their health practitioners in a small friendly home. Most importantly you will be in a position to bring a high level of care and satisfaction to our residents in their later years.

Essential:

• Full unrestricted AHPRA registration as a Registered Nurse

• Experience in Aged Care Nursing but not essential. A willingness to learn.

• An individual who values compassion, respect, integrity, kindness, and inclusiveness.

Bene ts and Perks

• From $44 ph. + Plus super and leave loading.

• Salary packaging options (up to $15,900 living expenses & $2,650 entertainment bene ts, tax free)

• Access to a Wellness Program & $200 annual payment

• Up to $500 retention bonus for permanent appointments

• Financial support for AHPRA registration (including payment of annual fees)

• Supportive and friendly work environment

• Work/life balance and exible working arrangements available

Pre-employment screening e successful candidate is required to complete UPA’s pre-employment screening process including a police check.

Interested?

Please email your interest/application to careers@northcoast.upa.org.au or call 02 6628 5559 for a chat.

STORE CATTLE SALE

MACHINERY SALE

A/C BRAD AND PAULINE COOK 53 FOX ROAD, ROSEBANK

ursday 15th June from 10am

Tractors, Bikes and Mower

Kioti RX8030 80hp 4WD tractor, air con cab c/w FEL 4 in 1 bucket, 900 hrs , Same Argon 60hp 4WD tractor, ROPS, 650 hrs, 5’ Southern Cross Slasher, 8” Hydraulic woodchipper, PTO drive 100 hrs, Yamaha YFB 2WD quad motorbike, Yamaha TTR230 motor bike, 2000km, Yamaha RT 100 motor bike, 48” Fastrack Hustler SDX zero turn, commercial grade, 400 hrs

Machinery and Tools

40mm Honda centrifugal pump, 3kva generator, Electric Welder, 8cfm compressor – belt drive, Chain saws – Stihl MS170, MS180, MS231, MS381, Pole saw – Stihl near new, Brushcutters – Stihl, Echo and Husqvarna, Poly spray tanks – 100 litre and 200 litre, Poly re tank – 100 litre, Poly fuel tank, pump and hose – 200 litre

Cattle Handing Equipment

HD Cattle yards 40 head - loading ramp, vet crush, race, gates in frame, holding yard, Cattle Back rub frame, feed ring, buckets and troughs, Cattle drench and vaccination gear Fencing materials – pickets, hand strainer, li er and driver

Others

Assorted building materials and fence posts Household furniture , Ziegler and brown gas BBQ with hardwood trolley, Assorted camping equipment, Bric a brac and sundries

For more detail: https://ianweirandson.com.au/listings/ machinery-sale-rosebank/ www.ianweirandson.com.au

•

• Septic Tanks

• Reed Beds

•

• Cattle Grids

• New & replacement metal roofs

• Painting of tile and metal roofs

• Roof repairs: tile and metal

• Guttering: whirly birds: mesh

stump grinder

CASINO/KYOGLE

be held from mid-day onwards at the Sports Club. Guests will be entertained with cricket stories from each decade and all attending former and current 1st Grade players will receive a keyring with their playing number attached (in line with the sequence of selection). Leading into the reunion celebrations, an ‘Old Mates’ group will meet every month at ‘The Crossing Cafe’ Main Street, Alstonville for a social gathering and beverage to renew old friendships and forming new ones. For further enquiries for cricket reunion contact Jack Oates (mob: 0429 533 940) or for ‘Old Mates’ contact Garry Ensbey (mob: 0403 033 227)

ALSTONVILLE PROBUS CLUB

Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cuppa and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are welcome.

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

A local women’s service club that meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at the Plateau Sports Club. Quota is committed to supporting and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the disadvantaged in our community through local projects.

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

Come and celebrate the centenary of Legacy and its important work at the latest exhibition at Crawford House Museum at Alstonville. Legacy is dedicated to caring for the families of fallen or seriously injured veterans, and the Far North Coast Branch of Legacy is partnering with the Alstonville Plateau Historical Society to present this exhibition. It runs until Friday 30th June and the Society will donate all entry fees to Legacy. The museum also has facilities for research about Ballina Shire families, as well as books about local history and commemorative wineglasses and keyrings for sale. The museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open Fridays 10am-4pm and Sundays 1pm-4pm or at other times by appointment for groups. Enquiries (02) 6628 1829. We have openings for people of any age to volunteer in administration or in the museum and, if you’re on a JobSeeker payment and 55 or older, it’s a great way to meet your mutual obligation requirements. If you’re interested, visit us at the museum or phone or email us.

EMBROIDERERS GROUP

Meetings are 9.30am-2.30pm 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month except December and January. Our venue is the Resource Centre at the rear of Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. We welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet, share and learn.

• Emergency/insurance repairs Septic

Phone office on 66811793 enquiries@rooftechroofing.com.au

2/32 Southern Cross Drive, Ballina Lic 303299C and 301815C www.rooftechroofing.com.au

INSURANCE - COMMERCIAL STRATA - RESIDENTIAL

ALSTONVILLE

ALSTONVILLE BRANCH OF THE RED CROSS

The Alstonville Red Cross branch meets monthly in Alstonville. As meeting dates sometimes vary, please call Carol on 0424 742 774 for details of our next meeting.

ALSTONVILLE & DISTRICT CRICKET CLUB

Alstonville & District Cricket Club will be celebrating its 50th year of existence since the amalgamation of the two village clubs on the plateau - Alstonville & Wollongbar on 10th July 1973.

The reunion of former and current players will take place on Sat 21st & Sun 22nd October weekend. Plans include a Welcome BBQ luncheon at one of the home competition games being played at either Hill Park, Wollongbar or Geoff Watt Oval, Alstonville on the Sat 21st Oct. (Cricket draw for season 2023/24 still to be determined). Drinks will continue to fow from 4:00pm onwards at the Alstonville Plateau Sports Club.

On Sun 22nd Oct, a special luncheon will

MCLEANS RIDGES CRAFT GROUP meet at the McLeans Ridges Hall, Cowlong Road, McLeans Ridges on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Scrapbooking, card making, paper craft, knitting whatever takes your fancy. Come along for an enjoyable day. Bring your own morning tea and lunch. Coffee, tea, milk provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.

SQUARE DANCING

Summerland Larrikins Squares Alstonville, Fridays 7.30pm-9.30pm at Uniting Church Hall, 59 Main Street, Alstonville. Contact 0407663017 for further information. New dancers welcome.

THE RETURNED AND SERVICES

LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA (NSW Branch) ALSTONVILLE SUB-BRANCH

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch will now hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am at the RSL Hall, 13 Bugden Ave (next door to the Alstonville Medical Centre). All ex-Service persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning tea on completion of the meeting. Alstonville RSL sub-Branch have a ‘Lower Deck Luncheon’ at 1200 each Friday, everyone is welcome, we sit out the back of the Hall, order lunch from local suppliers, and have great conversations with good mates. There is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!

BALLINA

BALLINA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE INC. (BACCI)

We are a diverse group of Artists and Crafters that participate in wonderful group exhibitions. Over 50 members are from all over the Northern Rivers. Meetings are usually on the 1st Monday of every month at the Cherry Street Sports Club. Social gathering at 5, for a 5.30 start.

Ph: Deb on 0432105540

BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB

“Social play every Monday

9-11.30am”. Sessions for all levels of players on Mon, Wed, Sat from 1pm to about 5pm. Be seated at 12:45. Restricted session (under 300 Masterpoints) Thu 1pm –about 5pm. Friday mornings, Help with Play. Open to anyone who would like some help with their game from teachers on duty. 9am to about 11:15pm. Sessions are $5 for members and $7 for visitors at 13 North Ck Rd, Ballina.

Call Judy Forsyth: 0407664337.

BALLINA COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

“LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC

DAYS” of The Ballina Country Music Club are scheduled for the frst Sunday of every Month.

Hope you have recovered from our fabulous Mother’s Day “boot scootin day”, because “SUNDAY 4th

JUNE” another big day cause we’re going to celebrate our “BIRTHDAY”, 17th year, yeah, we started in 2007. Our “Live Music Birthday” will be celebrated with the ever popular “ANN, BILL & the 2 J’s” band, on SUNDAY 4th JUNE 2023 at THE BALLINA RSL CLUB, Grant Street BALLINA. The Country Music gets underway at 10.45am at the “RRIE” so come and share the day with an encore performance from “TONY WAGNER”. With a host of “WALK UP-ARTISTS”, together with our innovation “half time break” we introduce: “Gukey Tunes” also known as “THE GUKEYS” (Stringed Band). What more can you want than a “Sunday Fun Day” of breath-taking afternoon music that will be something to remember, while not forgetting the Line Dancing that will leave you breathless. Along with the Great Country Music, there are Raffes with great prizes, Lucky Door Prizes, BCMC Members draw and Walk-up Artists Draw.

BALLINA EVENING

VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club at 6.30 for dinner at 7pm - Guests are always welcome. Our members support the education of disadvantaged children in Australia by fundraising activities and social events in our local community for The Smith Family - by sponsoring 5 Learning for Life students. Ph: Julie Stephan 0434988770.

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS CLUB

The next meeting of the Ballina Ladies Probus Club will be on June 7th at the Ballina RSL Club at 10 am. The guest speaker will be Mark Patterson speaking on “on-line security” All visitors are welcome. Phone Wendy 0419560916 or Pamela 66811022 for more information. Taking names for the shopping trip to Robina Town Centre on Wednesday 12th of July. Cost is $26.00

Coach trip to Grafton on Wednesday 14 June. Visitors welcome. $45.00 payment by 7 June 2023

Included in cost is coach, morning tea/coffee, scones with jam and cream at New Italy. Time to browse in gift shop and museum, Drive to Grafton, look around shops and get lunch at own cost. Then visit historic Sheaffer House Museum, cost of entry included. Pick up at Alstonville and Ballina

BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE

RSL DAY CLUB

A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment.

Every Thursday 10am to 2pm cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue

Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249

BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE CLUB

Social Bridge Play in Seniors Hall. Swift Street Ballina on Wednesday & Saturdays @ 12.05 pm

Enquiries Phone: 0493425002 for details.

BALLINA TOY LIBRARY

Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina.

Open Tuesdays 1pm - 3pm, and Saturdays 10am - 1pm. Ph. 0411719074.

IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

How about trying something different? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.

NORTHERN RIVERS NAVAL & MARINERS ASSOCIATION

This association was formed to attract veterans for companionship, wellbeing and to supply advocacy to veterans. We hold an informal gathering every Friday, 2.30pm at Ballina Angling Club (families are welcome). Ph: Allan Watt 0402 749 582

PROBUS CLUB OF

BALLINA WATERS

The Probus Club of Ballina Waters will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday 21st June at the Cherry Street Sports Club commencing at 10.00 a.m. The guest speakers will be the District Chairman of Probus, who will present a Certifcate to recognise 35 years since the Club was formed. This club is a mixed club and both men and women are invited to join us for a range of interesting social functions. Further information is available from the Secretary Brian on 0432277170.

BRUNSWICK HEADS

BRUNSWICK VALLEY VIEW CLUB

Brunswick Valley VIEW Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10.30am for 11am.

Apologies to Wenda on 0449 563 580 no later than the Monday before. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women. The club supports seven disadvantaged students in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. 1800 805 366

CASINO

CASINO & BONALBO UPPER CLARENCE LIONS CLUBS

Casino Lions club now meets each 4th Wed at the RSM.

CASINO COMMUNITY

MEN’S SHED

Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am1.30pm. Contact 66626423

CASINO CROQUET CLUB

Casino Croquet Club members are reminded that the winter playing times will commence from 6th June. Arrival time for setting the greens will be 12md for start of play at 12.30pm. New players are welcome to come along for your free trial games. Mallets are available. Bring afternoon tea and join us in a cuppa following play. Thanking you.

Jean Andrews (Publicity Offcer, Casino Croquet Club)

CASINO & DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY GROUP INC

We are open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm, Wednesdays from 12pm to 4pm and every third Saturday from 9 am to 11.30 am.

We are in Room 5, upstairs in the School of Arts building in Walker Street, Casino. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am. For a small fee we can do research for you as well.

Call 6664 1118

CASINO EVENING

BRANCH OF CWA

The Casino Evening Branch of the CWA meets on the frst Thursday of the month at the Casino Uniting Church Hall at 6pm. Come along and have supper and fnd out what we do. All welcome. Enquiries to Jo

on 0417798622

CASINO GALLERY-ART at the CASSINO GALLERY.

The Casino Art Group meets here every Thursday to Saturdays 10am to 3pm Interested in promoting YOUR medium? Come to the gallery for information.

CASINO HOSPITAL

AUXILIARY needs volunteers to work in the hospital kiosk. Roster days are negotiable and can be discussed with the Kiosk Supervisor by contacting Barbara on 0439607788 or phoning the hospital kiosk during the day on 66600539.

CASINO LADIES AND FRIEND CRAFT GROUP

Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month. Bring your own morning tea. Names to be in by lunch time Monday. Phone Vivian on 66621838 or Jan on 66626424.

CASINO MEALS ON WHEELS

If you would be interested in volunteering your time to help with meals on wheels give the offce a call on 66621217.

WEEK 3

MONDAY V.Gray & N.Nowlan

TUESDAY S.Forrester

WEDNESDAY H. Hurst N.& K.Ryan

THURSDAY B. Bennett

FRIDAY

Richmond Valley Council B & H.Elford

CASINO MINI RAIL

Every Sunday 10am to 4pm. Weather permitting. West Street Casino. Phone 0455673722.

CASINO MIXED PROBUS CLUB

Our Meeting is on fourth Thursday of each month at Casino RSM Club at 10:00am. Contact Kathleen Griffns, President phone 0427622470 or Daphne Boyd, Secretary phone 0400070085.

CASINO/RICHMOND

VALLEY BLIND CITIZENS

AUSTRALIA BRANCH

Casino /Richmond Valley BCA Branch June meeting is in the Casino Baptist Church Hall on the corner of Canterbury and West Streets Casino on Monday 5th June at 10am. Special guest speakers from the View Club will be in attendance. This is a special homemade hot soup luncheon meeting. After the meeting a hot soup luncheon will be served. New members are very welcome to join and enjoy a “cuppa” with everyone before the meeting. Free transport is available. Phone Denise: 0448 014 682

CASINO UNITING CHURCH

CAFÉ PRAISE…. Every Wednesday @ 10-11am. All Welcome 10am Morning Tea Fellowship. Welcome and Chat 10.30am Praise and Worship

CASINO VIEW CLUB

Monthly luncheon meeting at Casino RSM Club at 11am, second Thurs of every month. Contact Jan on 0418715374

AA-LIVING SOBER

MEETING is held every Tuesday 12:00-1:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church Cnr. West & Canterbury Streets Casino Each week the group will discuss a chapter on living sober out of the AA Living Sober Book. Contact George on Ph: 0427133372 (due to so many scam calls) please leave your name and number and I will call you back.

CWA CASINO DAY

The CWA Casino Day invites everyone to our June meeting at the Casino Community Centre 9.00am Thursday June 15th (3rd Thursday of the Month), 2023. All welcome, come and have a cuppa and see what we are about. Enquires Margaret Good 66621746, Jennifer Baker 043892060.

FAIRY HILL CRAFT

GROUP

Fairy Hill Craft group is on Thursday, June 1, 10 a.m. at the Fairy Hill Hall, Summerland Way, Fairy Hill. This month continue U.F.O’s / current projects. Show & Tell: Candle holders. New members always welcome. Tea/coffee supplied, BYO lunch. Phone Sue 66633233 for details.

LION’S CLUB CASINO

Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start. Secretary: Denise Green 0448014682

LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION

Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.

ST MARK’S SINGERS, CASINO

“Love is in the Air” concert.

1.30pm Saturday 24th June at the Anglican Hall Barker Street. $10 admission includes afternoon tea with homemade biscuits. All Welcome.

THE PLATYPUS RSL DAY CLUB operates every Tuesday at the Community Centre from 10am to 2pm. The day consists of gentle exercises, mental stimulation, games and entertainment. Members are asked to pay $7 for their morning tea and lunch. Transport can be provided within the town limits. If you are feeling socially isolated or just need a day out, please contact Robyn on 66623871. New members are welcome.

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon. New members welcome. More info Roz 0427825560

EVANS RIVER RSL DAY CLUB

The Evans River RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Remembrance Room at Club Evans RSL Evans Head from 10am until 2pm Cost $10 includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We have several vacancies for volunteers and members, anyone who is feeling in need of some company are welcome to attend. Come along and join in the fun. Contact Merilyn on 0401493316.

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP

Meet every Tuesday 9am12noon in the Recreation Hall (opposite the Kiosk). We invite you to join us for a relaxing morning of crafting, friendship and sharing ideas. Beginners are very welcome. Finishing UFO’s, Embroidery, Gold Work, Hexagons, & Group Projects are just some of the crafts done.

GOONELLABAH

GOONELLABAH

LIBRARY- MONDAY BOOK CLUB

Monday 5 June,

If you enjoy reading and would like to expand your circle of friends, a book club could be just the thing you are looking for. Meet new people, chat about what you are reading and enjoy a light morning tea. Everyone is welcome. For more information, please phone Goonellabah Library on 02 6625 1235.

LIFE & RELATIONSHIPS FOR WOMEN- 6 Sessions

Would you like to have closer, more harmonious relationships with others?

This small confdential group is for women who want to move from surviving to thriving in their relationships and lives. Learn new skills, discuss new ideas and have fun.

When: Mondays 22nd May-3rd July

Time: 9:30am-12:30pm

Where: Child and Family Health Centre, Oliver Ave. Goonellabah.

Facilitator: Pamela Craven. Women’s Health Matters

Cost: FREE Bookings: 66202999

NORTHERN RIVERS EVENING PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Evening Prostate Cancer Support Group is to be held on Wednesday June 7th - 7pm until 9pm at the LISMORE WORKERS SPORTS MAIN CLUB 202 OLIVER AVENUE, GOONELLABAH. Meals available at the Club if required.

Men previously and newly diagnosed with prostate cancer are urged to join with the group to experience the personal cancer stories told which give a great opportunity for all to share, learn and beneft from each other. Partners and Carers are also most welcome to attend as family are very much involved with the process and treatment of those with this diagnosis. This will be a time of caring and sharing.

Enquiries phone Bob Johnson (02) 6622 5792

TABLE TENNIS AT GOONELLABAH

Tuesday and Thursday mornings social playing: 9am-12noon; Monday and Wednesday nights social playing: 7-9pm; Training Monday mornings: 9am-12noon; Junior coaching after school Wednesday 3.30pm-4.45pm, $6 a session. Everybody is welcome – all levels. Phone centre on 66251602. MonThurs 9.00am-1.00pm

THE PROBUS CLUB of Goonellabah meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Workers Sports Club in Oliver Ave.

All welcome. Goonellabah

Probus is solely a social club. We have a guest speaker each month and go for outings throughout the year. Meetings on Thursday commence at 10am and fnish at midday. For further information, please contact Gloria Francis on 02 6629 1442.

GRAFTON

GRAFTON AND DISTRICT

GARDEN CLUB

“Connecting people with an interest in gardening, plants, fowers and nature.”

Last week we had the privilege of being able to wander through a beautiful garden at Seelands, belonging to two of our members.

We were greeted by a koala high up in one of the many gum trees that they planted over 50 years ago with the hope of attracting koalas. It was once again heart-warming to listen to landowners who not only love to garden for pleasure and for food but who also have a keen interest in the wildlife that love to visit their garden. Of course, we have to take the good with the bad, one garden bed had been full of fowers the day prior to our visit but a possum visited the night before and ate them all. No problem, there was a lot of great colours and such a spectacular view of the river. Hoyas, staghorns, orchids and bromeliads seem to be thriving too.

Our next meeting will be on Thursday 1st June at the Joan Muir Centre, 194 Turf St Grafton. 10am to midday.

Entry is $2, please bring morning tea to share if you are able. We will supply coffee, tea etc.

There will also be the regular Bring and Buy table so if you have some plants, cuttings or produce you would like to donate, they are greatly appreciated. Anything gardening related. All proceeds go to our Club.

Our guest speaker will be Di from Honey Bee Hives.

Publicity Offcer: Jane Rhodes: 0438 593032

GRAFTON CWA

Meetings of Grafton CWA are held on 2nd Friday of each month in the CWA Rooms, cnr Duke and Pound Sts. Morning tea is at 9.30am, followed by the meeting at 10am. Our next meeting will be on Friday, 9th June, when guest speaker

will be Tanya Burman from Home Instead. We are also looking forward to hearing about the CWA Conference in Bathurst, which was attended by several of our members. New members are always welcome, members who join at this time of year pay a reduced rate until fees are due in October.

Craft mornings are held on 2nd and 4th Mondays at 9.30am-a good opportunity to get together to do some craft, meet other people, have a cuppa and a chat.

Publicity Offcer: Anne McLellan

GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE

TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Perhaps it’s time to fnd out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the Mighty Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton.

GRAFTON SENIOR CITIZENS

Next trip, Fri,23 June, to mystery venue, some seats available.

8 day tour to Narrabri, Dubbo, Tamworth, from 12 August, still requires more bookings. Soup day, Mon, 19 June, still taking bookings, which close 13 June for catering. Enquiries, Sandra, 6642 7720 or 04 1 7 464 946.”

GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES

Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street. Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors. We meet at 10.30a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with the exercises commencing at 11. All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants. Further information can be obtained from Joan or Brian on 6644 7347 or 0416 067 315, or from Dot on 66423248 or 0477 213 017

GRAFTON VIEW CLUB

Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along, enjoy yourself with a tasty meal, a motivated guest speaker & ultimately disadvantaged children will be helped. Please phone Vorna at 66424719 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along to the next meeting to have some fun & help disadvantaged children. See you there!

CLARENCE RIVER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

“Schaeffer House Museum at 190 Fitzroy Street, Grafton. Is in full swing for 2023 with visitors starting to arrive by the busload! What do they

see? First and last, the pretty gardens with a wide variety of plants, fowers, herbs and sheltering trees for the birds, butterfies, bees, and resident skinks. Inside the cool house they experience time travel as they see how people led their lives on the Clarence over 170 years ago, building for us a rich heritage to value forever! They will also see how to value the knowledge and help given by the original inhabitants on whose land the newcomers settled. It’s a never-ending story in your “Story House” museum. Our vintage clothing collection will soon be stored away to make way for a new display, so pay a visit soon to Your Schaeffer House Museum!

Don’t forget we have nine other great museums in the clarence Valley just waiting for another visit from you!

PS: Our resident gnomes can be found somewhere in the garden. Others are tiny and hiding away!!

Museum opening hours are

Tues to Thur and Sunday 1pm to 4pm $12 – Family $5 – Adult and $2 – Child. Research hours are Tues to Thur only from 9am to 3pm. There is a small charge for researching.

Our contact number for special openings is 6642 5212”.

Should you wish to discuss this matter further please do not hesitate to contact me on either (02)66425212 or 0406397404.

SCHAEFFER HOUSE MUSEUM, 190 PRINCE STREET, Grafton, NSW

Many items are being ‘rested’ and replaced with different interesting historical photographs, paintings, and objects. Come to see if you can “spot” the changes!

Our museum is constantly changing, just like the lovely garden that surrounds it!

When did you last “drop in?”

All our museums have different collections and are entertaining so check out the opening times for Alumy Creek, Iluka, Yamba, Glenreagh, Maclean, Lawrence and Copmanhurst.

Schaeffer House hours: Tues, Wed, Thur, and Sun 1-4pm Admission Family of four $12.00 Adults $5.00 and children $2.00

We have been welcoming many new members lately, if you would like to join our historical society, you too, can receive our quarterly newsletters and receive many benefts in the Research Area.

HASTINGS POINT

HASTINGS POINT COMMUNITY CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome

When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414 794 380

PROBUS CLUB OF

HASTINGS POINT

The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at 10am on 3rd Tuesday each month, in the residents’ lounge at Hastings Point Tricare. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president 0409872773 for additional information.

KINGSCLIFF

KINGSCLIFF 500 CARD CLUB

Kingscliff 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club

New players WELCOME

Contact: GARY 0499869992

KYOGLE

KYOGLE COUNTRY

MUSIC

Kyogle Country Music’s next musical day is on Sunday 11th June at Kyogle Bowling Club commencing at 11am. The club will have lunch afternoon tea coffee drinks available during the day. A $2 donation at the door appreciated.

KYOGLE SUNSHINE CLUB

Meets every Thursday at 9.30am. For more details contact 0499824274.

KYOGLE TIDY TOWNS FARMERS MARKET

Held every Saturday morning in Stratheden Street from 8am -12. Come along grab some local fruit & veggies, experience all Kyogle has to offer. New Stall Holders welcome. Ph: Anne 66321851

LION’S CLUB OF KYOGLE

Meeting is held on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at the Kyogle Lion’s shed from 6.30–7pm. Contact Neville Moon on 0448222334.

RICHMOND RIVER BEEF PRODUCER’S ASSOCIATION

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at Kyogle Showgrounds in the luncheon room at 7pm. Ph: Jan on 0427293455.

ROTARY KYOGLE

BAZAAR

Fourth Saturday of every month.

See Rotary Kyogle Bazaar on social media for all the details or call 0459 512 249.

LENNOX HEAD

LENNOX HEAD CWA

Handy Craft Mornings on Mondays 9.30am-12noon in the community centre at Lennox Head. Call Jan on 66816150.

LENNOX HEAD DAY VIEW CLUB

The Lennox Head Day VIEW Club meets on the frst Monday of each month at the Lennox Head Community Centre with the meeting starting at 11am and includes an interesting speaker and concludes with a light lunch. An informal Coffee and Chat meeting is held on the third Monday of the month. The Club sponsors

three students through The Smith Family Learning for Life scholarship program that provides educational items for disadvantaged Australian children. New members and guests are most warmly welcomed, and enquiries may be made to Enid 047187511 or Dawn 0466717435.

LENNOX HEAD EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Lennox Hotel at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. Guests are welcome. “VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged. students.” Lennox Head Evening VIEW Club currently sponsors two Learning for Life students. Ph: Sue Brennan 0409728814.

LENNOX HEAD LIONS CLUB

New members welcome to join our close-knit club where the emphasis is on community service in a fun environment. Meetings are on the frst and Third Wednesday of each month at Club Lennox starting at 6.30pm. Members do what they can, when they can to facilitate the needs of our club.

PROBUS CLUB OF LENNOX HEAD

Meets 9.30 for 10 at Club Lennox, 10 Stewart Street, on the frst Thursday of each month. Visitors are welcome, also retired, or semi-retired people wishing to join our non-service club to hear interesting guest speakers and to join in trips and outings are invited along. Ph: June Zentveld on 66871004

LISMORE

LISMORE BASE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY

Lismore Base Hospital

Auxiliary are holding a Christmas in July on 22nd of July at 12 noon at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club 181 High Street Lismore Heights. Tickets are $35.00 a head for a two Course meal. We will be having games, Raffes, lucky door prizes and a Hundred club. Come along and have a great day out with friends. Contact Carol on 0414847199 for tickets. Money raised goes towards buying vital equipment for Lismore Base Hospital.

LISMORE CITY CONCERT BAND

Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.15-7.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan. Ph: 0432575911

LISMORE CWA

IT’S ‘23’ SO COME AND SEE what being a member of the Lismore CWA DAY BRANCH could mean to you. We would like YOU to join us for the opportunity to be involved with a truly friendly group of fun, diverse & interesting women of all ages. You will make new friends who will support you, plus you’ll be part of contributing to the lives of Women and Children in our area through our fundraising endeavours. PLEASE

THINK ABOUT IT! Why not come along as a ‘guest’ to see how you feel and experience the difference. being a CWA Member could bring to you and your life. We meet on the frst Thursday of each month at 9:30am for a 10am start. Our 2023 meetings commence in February.

FOR MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION call our President Allison Kelly on 0428 216 079. We also run CRAFT meetings each Friday.

You’ll learn new things, once again meet new friends, and enjoy creating beautiful craft in great company.

FOR CRAFT

INFORMATION call Vicki Boyle on 0437 465 642. WE LOOK FORWARD SO MUCH to meeting you.

LISMORE HOME GARDEN CLUB

Will be meeting Thursday 8th June 1pm at East Lismore Bowling Club. Special for June is Foliage (Leaf or Plant). Please bench entries by 12.30pm. Day Coach trip to Kingscliff area Saturday 17th June. Next Morning Tea Saturday 24th June at Esther Burn`s Place. More info contact sec 0448294496

LISMORE LIBRARY NEW LOCATION IN THE CBD

While the Lismore Library is under repair, you can fnd a Pop-Up Library at 146 Molesworth Street (Was Williams Shoes), for all your reading, watching and information needs. The library has a fresh collection of donated community books, DVD’s, Puzzles and more, with weekly programs and events. The library is open 7 days a week.

TUESDAY BOOK CLUB:

Tuesday 6 June,

If you enjoy reading and would like to expand your circle of friends, a book club could be just the thing you are looking for. Meet new people, chat about what you are reading and enjoy a light morning tea. Everyone is welcome. For more information, please phone Lismore Library on 02 6621 2464.

POETRY GROUP:

Wednesday 7 June, 3pm –4.30pm

Join us to read, listen to and share Poetry at the library monthly poetry group. Meet other poets, share your own work, or bring your favourites poems. Gain the inspiration to improve your writing while feeling the soothing effects and emotive power that sharing poetry brings. New members welcome. Afternoon tea

COMMUNITY NOTICES

provided. For more information, please phone Lismore Library on 02 6621 2464.

SOCIAL CLUB: Friday 9 June, 10am – 12pm

Join this fun group on every Friday morning at 10am. This Friday join the group to complete the giant crossword. Refreshments provided; good times guaranteed!

For more information, please phone Lismore Library on 02 6621 2464.

LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY

SHED

President: Don Abrahams

0437576837 Vice President: Bob Greig 0404860504

Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 9.00am – 3.00pm

We are a community based non-proft organisation. Everybody is welcome: men, women & people with a disability of all ages. We encourage social inclusion. Our aim is to promote the mental, physical & emotional well-being of people in our community.

Shed Activities

Members work on their own projects, Mentoring is available, General woodworking, Welding & light engineering, Repair & restoration of items for the public Constructing projects, of items for the publ ic Constructing projects for preschools, hospitals & other organisations Assembling fatpack, Minor maintenance work for the elderly & disabled, working with the disabled, talking with other members or simply having company.

Memberships: $40-year

Attendance Fee: $3 tea/coffee

Location: 15 Industry Drive East Lismore

LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC.

Lismore Orchid Society now meets 3rd Wednesday each month, 1:30pm to 4:00pm at Goonellabah Community Centre in the Goonellabah Public Library, 27 Oliver Ave Goonellabah. Ph: Bev on 0400326289

LISMORE PARKINSONS NSW SUPPORT GROUP

“Parkinsons NSW Lismore Regional Support Group. We meet every third Friday of the month. Next group Meeting is Friday, 16th of June Commences at 10am to 12pm at the South Lismore Bowls Club, 25 Wilson Street South Lismore. New members welcomed. Snacks & cold drinks available. Tea and Coffee with a Gold Coin Donation.

Social Networking Coffee and Tea meeting also, Spouse/Careers Group. Any inquiries contact Marie 0448871290

LISMORE SENIOR CITIZENS

Meet at the Goonellabah Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome.

LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS

Please join us…... Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat…. Sharing Craft & Ideas. From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans

Ridges Rds. (off Bruxner Hwy)

Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug)

Contac: Kim- 0423935060

Linda- 0419489987

LISMORE TARGET RIFLE CLUB for .22 calibre rifes, meets Wed nights from 6.30pm & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 1.00 pm. Air rife shooting for .22 & 177 air rifes will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).

CO-DEPENDANTS

ANONYMOUS (CoDA)

Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships. The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or 0408336143

EAST LISMORE BOWLING

CLUB Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone

Welcome

EAST LISMORE SOCIAL

TENNIS

Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.

MAINLY MUSIC

Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200

NR U3A LISMORE INC. (UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE)

Have you retired or just about to, from the workforce?

Are you looking to exercise your mind and body and keep both well oiled?

Well, Lismore U3A [university of the third age} could be just the place for you. This worldwide organisation has been running in Lismore for the past 30 years and thousands of local people have benefted from its programmes. It’s a great place to meet like-minded people and make new friends. The last three years have been diffcult for us as they have for everyone, and we are on a recruitment drive to meet and greet you! We start 2023 with a choice of at least 30 classes, which include, Languages, Photography, Science, History, Qigong, Genealogy, and many others. We also have a social calendar each term.

U3A is entirely run by volunteers, with the committee and tutors coming from our membership. The joining fee Is $50 for 1 year and entitles you to attend any course you choose throughout the year;

you can go every day if you wish. Why not peruse our site to see if there is a course that would be of interest to you. There is an online enrolment form that you can complete and any queries you have can be directed to our secretary, Pat, McLaren- Smith Ph. 6622 7408

PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS

Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St. Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/text Pam on 0418766247 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING

Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a difference in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you! Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at The Civic Hotel (210 Molesworth Street Lismore). Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC

East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.

ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE

Interested in contributing to community? Local and international?

The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Options Cafe, Main St. Alstonville until further notice. Join us at Options please. Ph: 0435 990 919

SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy and similar subjects.

SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.

Come and learn an addictive hobby with us.

We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information.

Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Arts Pavillion at Lismore Showgrounds. Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601

ZEN AND INSIGHT MEDITATION – LISMORE HEIGHTS INSIGHT (VIPASSANA)

MEDITATION and practice:

This mindfulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and

walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion.

For further details, please contact Rosie - 0402 682 925

ZEN MEDITATION and practice

The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm-8:15pm. The evening includes instructions, sitting meditation, Dharma talks and individual interviews with the teacher.

For further details, please phone: 0427778837 Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed at both groups.

MACLEAN

MACLEAN VIEW CLUB

Monthly meetings the 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purposes.

MURWILLUMBAH

COMMUNITY PRINTMAKERS MURWILLUMBAH

Fine art printmakers. Meet at studio space 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding. Prints, gallery, workshops and more! Ph: Peter 0498399640 or Sue 0408493253.

MURWILLUMBAH

COMMUNITY GARDEN

Members and visitors are invited to join the group for activities and gardening tips most Sundays. Time 3-5pm, street parking, BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat, and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Ph: Bob Johnson (02)66225792.

POTTSVILLE

POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB

Meets at Black Rocks Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375.

POTTSVILLE LADIES LIFEBALL

Every Thursday morning 9.30am to 11.30am. Pottsville Community Hall, $5 per session includes morning tea. No joining fees. Ph: Jan 0431909760.

TWEED HEADS

Poets and writers on the Tweed meet every Tuesday at the South Tweed Sports Club 1.30-3.30pm. Beginners welcome. Phone 0755248035.

TWEED HEADS PROBUS CLUB

Probus Club, Coolangatta/Tweed Heads. Be at Club Tweed at 1000am on the frst Wednesday of the Month. Visitors and new members are very welcome.

RICHMOND-TWEED FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY INC

The Society holds its monthly general meeting on the frst Saturday of every month at Players Theatre, 24 Swift Street, Ballina, from 2pm-4pm and at each meeting we have a presentation of a topic at that meeting we hope you will continue to support us announcing this through your relevant media outlet, I have listed some upcoming meetings:

Saturday 3 June Meeting: First Clue that Sparked a Line of Enquiry. Co-ordinated by Robyn Hilan.

Saturday 1 July Meeting: A

Photograph That Tells a Story. Co-ordinated by Jackie Chalmers. Saturday 5 August Meeting: AGM plus talks on The Black Sheep in the Family co-ordinated by Joy Conlon

TWEED PATCHWORK GROUP

Meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at South Tweed Community Center from 9-1pm at 18 Heffron Street Tweed Heads south all beginners welcome phone Moira on 0418686643. A friendly group of people with common interest in seeing, quilting and related craft.

YAMBA

YAMBA DAY VIEW CLUB

Yamba Day View Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Yamba Bowling Club on 3rd Monday of month, starting 10am for 10.30am. Acceptance and apologies to President Lyn 66463164 by Friday prior to luncheon for catering purposes. We hold a monthly social outing either for lunch or morning tea and visitors are always welcome.

YAMBA LIONS CLUB

Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.

ALL NORTHERN RIVERS

NRCF WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE

The Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRFC) is inviting Northern Rivers women to play an active role in empowering vulnerable women and girls in our region. The newly formed NRFC’s Women’s Giving Circle brings Northern Rivers women together to achieve equality and human rights for women and girls in our region and enable them to realise their full potential. Ph: 0499862886

The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE HARRIERS is a non-proft community group that is part of a worldwide organisation. The Hash House Harriers meet every Monday at 6pm for a run/walk from various locations around Lismore, Alstonville and Ballina. The run/ walk lasts for approximately an hour, followed by friendship, banter and grub. We are very friendly and welcome new members.

NORTHERN RIVERS PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

Covering Wollongbar to Ocean Shores.

Meets 2nd Friday of each month at Summerland Farm, Wardell Road, Alstonville. A general catch up & chat with the opportunity to join in a casual Q&A session with Rebecca, our Parkinson’s nurse. She will be there to answer any questions that you may have about anything to do with living with Parkinson’s or supporting or caring for a loved one. Maybe you want to know about symptoms, medication, treatments or services etc.

Rebecca is there to support us and help you manage your disease so that you live your best life. All those living with Parkinson’s Disease or those supporting them are most welcome.

Please RSVP Cheryl 0428286753.

Warnings

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Sunny. Light winds.

Thursday. Mostly sunny. Light winds.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. Patches of morning frost. Light winds becoming westerly 15 to 20 km/h during the day. Thursday. Mostly sunny. The chance of morning fog on and west of the ranges. Winds west to southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light during the afternoon.

New South Wales:

A few showers about the southern half of the ranges and adjacent western slopes. Dry and mostly sunny in the northeast, mostly cloudy elsewhere. Areas of morning frost possible about the ranges and northern slopes. Daytime temperatures near or slightly average. West to northwesterly winds, freshening about the southern ranges. Thursday. A few showers about the southern ranges and adjacent slopes, possibly extending to parts of the southeast. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere. Morning frost about the northern ranges. Daytime temperatures a little above average. West to northwesterly winds tending south to southeasterly along the coast later in the day.

Byron Coast:

Winds: North to northwesterly about 10 knots increasing to 10 to 15 knots during the morning. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Southerly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Weather: Sunny.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: North to northwesterly about 10 knots increasing to 10 to 15 knots during the morning. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Southerly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Weather: Sunny.

Gold Coast Waters:

Winds: East to southeasterly about 10 knots. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Southerly below 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny.

CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB

SPORTS RESULTS

RICOCHET CROQUET :

D.Scott N.Poynting 18 d

G.Drew R.Chapman 10

N.Barnes C.Edlund 10 d

P.Bolte M.Russell 10

R.Poynting C.Lane 12 d

R.Allen J.Doust 6

P.Scott C.Woodlands 11 d

B.Wellings J.Hannigan 9

ASSOCIATION CROQUET :

G.Drew C.Woodlands 13 d

L.Hardy B.Hardy 10

Pennants : Byron Bay 5 d Ballina 1

Final Results : Ballina 1st , Byron Bay 2nd , Cherry Street 3rd, Casino 4th, Alstonville 4th.

R.Hughes & J.Wilson 3, M.Sawers & B.Bowen 4, P.Waters & B.McAlister 5.

Gateball Croquet players at Ballina.

Next Gateball Day 22nd June 9am. All welcome.

CASINO SOCIAL GOLF RESULTS 28-05-2023

The I should have day was won by Matthew Gooding with a net score of 24 from Fred Bruni with 27.The putting trophy went to G.Shephard with 14 putts and M.Gooding won the players draw.Nearest to pins:8th & 9th, G.Randall. 10th & 18th, M.Gooding. 12th & 16th, T.Jenkins.13th, B.Yates. 14th, G.Skennar. 15th, J.Rankin. Next Sunday’s event sponsored by Newstead Automotive Services Casino will be a single stroke on the top 11 holes for the monthly medal and visitors are welcome to play with hit off from 6-30am till 7-30am

CASINO WOMENS BOWLS RESULTS

QLD Mixed Open

Golf Croquet Doubles

Championships :

A.Matthews & F.Wright 1, B.Martin & J.Molyneux

2, G.Hull & A.Rawding

3, G.Spencer & S.Bates 4,

R.Newsham & G.MClean

5, M.McMahon & C.D.Vene 6, D.Simmons & W.Borkhardt 7, B.Turner & T.Gray 8.

NSW Ricochet Open Doubles Championships : C.Paterson & C.Williams 1, D.Cornish & W.Worrall 2,

Winners: C. Doyle, J. Cooke & M. Richards

The Casino RSM Womens Bowling Club held their beef week event on Wednesday 24/5, we had 30 bowlers & a good day was had by all. We had a game of bowls followed by a lovely lunch & presentations. The winners for the day were: C. Doyle, J. Cooke & M. Richards Runners up were: T.

Maxwell, D. Grice & E. Schumaker.

On Wednesday 31/5 we will continue on with rounds for the Minor Consistency club championship. (51cm)

CASINO WOMENS BOWLS RESULTS

Winners: C. Doyle, J. Cooke & M. Richards

The Casino RSM Womens Bowling Club held their beef week event on Wednesday 24/5, we had 30 bowlers & a good day was had by all.

We had a game of bowls followed by a lovely lunch & presentations.

The winners for the day were: C. Doyle, J. Cooke & M. Richards Runners up were: T. Maxwell, D. Grice & E. Schumaker.

2nd - Bernie Macdonald (37)

Gross - Joe McWilliam (35)

Div 2

1st - Stephen Payne (35)cb

2nd - Garry Coughlin (34)

Gross - Jeff Larkin (19)

Ball run-down: 32 c/b.

NTP’s:

2nd - Stephen Payne (170cm)

11th Peter Fiore (158cm)

16th - Ed Bennett (110cm)

Saturday 27th May - Single Stableford - Shootout Round

Div 1

1st - Chris Barbary (39cb)

2nd - Guy Bezrouchko (39cb)

3rd - Sam Stefanaras (39cb)

Div 2

1st - Darryl Riley (39)

2nd- Glyn Harding (38cb)

3rd - Mark Hilder (38cb)

Div 3

1st - Glen Moller (40cb)

2nd - Ryan Hewett (40cb)

3rd - Terry Crandell (38)

Ball run-down 35

NTP’s:

2nd - Darryl Riley(123cm)

5th - John Kay (192 cm)

8th - Grant Hunter (262)

As mentioned at Saturday’s presentation there is lot of divots on the course that have not been flled in. Coming into winter, growth is slowing up and it takes longer for the grass to regrow. If the members can make a concerted effort to fll their own divots and any in close proximity they see. There is plenty of sand available to fll the sand buckets.

BALLINA MAHJONG

26TH MAY 2023

Sally Lowry 1. Joy Lowien

2. Lorna Simpson 3. Susan

Scott 4. Gail McDonagh 5. Ronda Taylor6. Vanessa Reynolds 7. Jane Rhodes

8. Lisa Wong 9. Jane Small

10. Janene Jarvis 11. Pam

Farrell 12. Deborah Green

13. Pauline Kearney 14.

Diana Auret 15. Pauline

Bolte 16. Wendy Thornton

17. Linda Lovett 18. Jan Henley 19. June Greenaway

20. Coral Lavelle, Valda McLerie 21.

Ann Hewitt 23. Val Heinritz

24. Kathy Pickles 25. Jan

Boardman 26. Barbara

Ellan 27. Shirley Atkinson

28. Jenny Lang 29.

fathead.

2nd place, in the seniors competition, went to her boating partner Terry Daly also with 10 luderick. 3rd place, in the seniors competition, went to Denis Wynn with 3 bream and 4 fathead.

In the junior competition Olivia Davidson weighed in 1 Flathead. Unfortunately for her no other junior nominated. Our next outing will be held on 24th June, in conjunction with our Annual Presentation at our Yamba Clubhouse.

EVANS HEAD WOMENS BOWLS

Major Pairs Club Championship Final was played on 24-05-23. Lyn Vidler & Beverley Montague defeated Pam Freeman & Kim Keevers. Congratulations to Winners & Runners/up & all the Teams that participated in the Championship. Well done!

EVANS HEAD WOMENS BOWLS

On Wednesday 31/5 we will continue on with rounds for the Minor Consistency club championship.

GOLF RESULTS FOR LAST WEEK

Thursday 25th May: Single Stableford

Div 1

1st - Paddy Molloy (37)

11th - Sam Stefanaras (244cm)

13th - Peter Warren (122cm)

16th - Sam Stefanaras (51cm)

THIS WEEK’S EVENTS

Thursday: 1st June-2023Single Stableford

Saturday: 3rd June 2023

Oaten’s Monthly Medal Stroke Event.

GRAFTON DISTRICT ANGLERS CLUB MAY OUTING RESULTS

Grafton District Anglers Club held their May Rock, Beach and Estuary outing on 20/21 May 2023

There were 19 nominations with 12 anglers weighing in fsh.

1stplace, in the seniors competition, went to Krystal Pfeiffer with a catch of 10 large luderick and 1

Ladies Social Day 24-0523 - 3 Bowl Triples - Win & Ends - Winners - B. Hancock, B. Cameron, S. Downs/I. Bale. Runners/ up - J. Beckett, L. Stratton,

Scrappy win for Ghosts

BY GARY NICHOLS

It was an ugly win, but the Grafton Ghosts were happy to walk off Frank McGuren Field on Sunday with two competition points against a previously undefeated Coffs Harbour Comets side.

In a game riddled with errors from both sides, the Ghosts held on for a dramatic 20-16 victory to retain the Clem

made no mistake with the conversion for the visitors to race to a 6-0 lead.

Both sides continued to cough up the ball and give away silly penalties much to the frustration of the crowd. However, when the Ghosts fnally found themselves in good feld position, go-toman Dylan Collett brushed aside fve Comets’ defenders to

to give his side a 10-6 lead.

Another infringement at the ruck by Grafton saw the visitors lock the scores at 10-all after Ronan Singleton burrowed his way over the try line right on the stoke of half-time.

After the break, Grafton stretched the lead to 14-10 when, from out of nowhere, Ghosts’ half-back Thomas Bowles split

had some much-needed breathing space.

The clutch moment in the game came when Comets’ fullback Ronan Singleton spilt a towering bomb, and from the ensuing scrum, a rampaging Justin King found the chalk to increase the lead to 20-10 with ffteen left on the clock.

Another unforced error by the home side saw Coffs reawaken the contest when Paul Pen Simona crossed for the visitors third try. Curry’s conversion set up a thrilling last fve-minutes.

The Ghosts’ dug deep and refused to buckle in the dying stages to record an all-important 20-16 victory.

lot of injuries the last few weeks and now we are getting a few more troops back which helps.”

Collett is arguably the best centre in the competition with his powerhouse running and ability to shrug off defenders close to the line. When asked about his try-scoring talent, the

Rankin Shield.

Coffs drew frst blood when hooker Joey Cudmore caught the Ghosts’ defence napping. Nathan Curry

score out wide.

And not long after, Collett was at it again, terrorising the Comets right edge to pick up his second four-pointer

the defence from 40-out to score next to the uprights.

Cooper Woods missed the conversion, but all of a sudden Grafton

Two-try Ghosts’ hero Dylan Collett admitted it was a scrappy game, but added his side are slowly building each week.

“We defnitely made it hard on ourselves with all the errors,” he said.

“But we’ve had a

Ghosts centre was full of praise for his middle forwards.

“It all comes down to the middle players setting the platform, making the meters and getting a quick play the ball so I can do my thing on the edge,” he said.

Ghosts’ cult hero Justin King was tireless in both attack and defence and was rewarded with the match-winning try late in the second half.

Collett admitted his teammate was a bit unique on the playing feld.

“I’m not sure what’s going on in his head sometimes during the game,” Collett said.

“But he is fantastic to have on the feld and around the club.”

In other news, the South Grafton Rebels cruised to a comfortable 30-6 win over Macksville.

GRAFTON GHOSTS 20 (Tries: Dylan Collett 2, Thomas Bowles 1, Justin King 1. Cooper Woods 2 conversions.) COFFS HARBOUR COMETS

16 (Tries: Joey Cudmore 1, Ronan Singleton 1, Paul Pen Simona 1, Nathan Curry 2 conversions)

Speedway Season Finishes For V8 Dirt Modifdes

BY BRIAN PULLEN

Hi-Tec Oils Toowoomba Speedway concluded the V8 Dirt Modifed 2022/2023 season with the running of the Queensland Title on Saturday night.

Six heats were raced with each driver contesting three heats to qualify for the main event.

Winners of the heats were Terry Leerentveld, Chris Corbett, Brayd Stephenson, Blake Eveleigh and Kevin Britten who was

successful in two heats.

Britten was top point scorer from David Clark and Mark Robinson, all previous Australian champions.

Britten and Clark battled at the front for the lead with Britten crossing the fnishing line frst from Clark.

Scott Cannon was the big mover shooting through the feld from position eleven to fnish on the podium in third.

Brock Armstrong won the Sportsman award.

Matthew Paul Photography

Photo credit: