From front page...
By TIM HOWARD
The organisers of this year’s Remembrance Day ceremony in Grafton believe they are taking some short term pain, for long term gain.
The ceremony in Memorial Park, at the river end of Prince St, attracted a disappointing crowd of around 40 people.
But Grafton RSL Subbranch president Leith Basset was philosophical about the turn out as the venue is in the middle of a massive renovation of the city’s riverside precinct.
“It anyone had seen this place even yesterday they would not have believed we could have held a ceremony here,” Mr Basset said.
He said Clarence Valley Council had done “really well” to prepare the park for the ceremony.
“The ground was
everywhere,” he said.
“The’ve cleaned the
Both Mr Basset and the sub-branch secretary
back in bigger numbers once the work was
a great place for people to come for
waterfront,” Mr Benfeld said.
Clarence Valley councillor Peter Johnstone delivered the address which examined the response to the news at 11am on November 11, 1918 that hostilities between the combatants had ceased.
He pointed to a mixture of relief and exuberance for many that the war was done.
But for millions of others the news brought feelings of hollowness and loss as they remembered loved ones who died in the fghting.
all chopped up and there were fences
area up and done it quickly too.”
Denis Benfeld predicted the people would be
completed.
“It’s going to be
our commemorations, but also to enjoy the
Cr Johnstone said the need for commemorations such as Remembrance Day to temper celebrations to ensure respect for those who lost everything, was an essential aspect of Remembrance Day.
It’s progress at last for the homeless people of Mullumbimby and surrounds, six months after February’s food disaster rendered their homes useless.
But for eleven existing Mullumbimby property owners, last week’s confrmation by the State Government of the town’s new ‘pod site’ at Prince and Station Streets, spells potentially more headaches – and heartache.
Resilience NSW’s recently-completed Flood Impact Assessment of the site has revealed the impending construction of 40 self-contained units – to house up to 160 people – would also, ironically, increase the food risk to these eleven Mullumbimby homes, drawing ire from an already-weary community.
“It is unacceptable that anyone would be worse off as a result of the housing pods in Mullumbimby. The affected houses must be included in the buyback
program,” one woman posted to local social media.
Cr Michael Lyon, Byron Shire Mayor, and representatives from Resilience NSW met affected owners and residents in Mullumbimby last week, moving to assure them any additional risk to their property is low, and on balance the construction works will safeguard more homes than they’ll threaten.
“There are eleven properties in total which will see impacts on their properties in a 1 in 100year food, due to the emergency housing works in Prince St, however only 2 will see impacts above the foor. There
are also 85 properties in the immediate vicinity that will see a reduction of fooding in a 1 in 100year food,” Cr Michael Lyon, Byron Shire Mayor said.
Mayor Lyon also hosed down public concerns about potential lead contamination from the old rail corridor during construction earthworks.
“There is no basis to this at all,” he said.
“Meeting with residents really brings home the continuing trauma that is being felt by those still impacted by the horrendous foods of February and March and I really feel for everyone still affected, including those desperate to fnd stable temporary
accommodation. For those residents and owners that are on the two properties that the pod site impacts in terms of above foor impacts, I really feel for their situation, and they shouldn’t have to face this alone,” Cr Michael Lyon, Byron Shire Mayor said.
Cr Lyon will move a Mayoral Minute at tomorrow’s (Thursday’s) meeting of Council, asking the State Government to consider these affected properties in the joint-Government’s $800m Buy Back program.
“.. So that this option exists for them. Although they may fall just outside the criteria
for this program based on food probability, I think combined with the impacts of these works they deserve to be included,” Cr Michael Lyon, Byron Shire Mayor said.
He’ll also move that Council lobby the NSW Government to accept liability if the works were to have caused fooding of two particularly at-risk properties in any future fooding event.
“The process involved to this point has been far from perfect and not in the order you would normally expect, as a food impact assessment would usually be provided prior to the flling of a site. This is however an emergency and there are people who are desperately in need of accommodation and hopefully we will see at least half of these pods housing people in Mullumbimby before Christmas,” Cr Michael Lyon, Byron Shire Mayor said.
The frst of the new housing ready next month Mullumbimby Pod construction at a glance:
(source Resilience NSW)
• Site works have commenced to construct 40 self-contained units to house up to 160 local people
• Design of the site has been fnalised including a food mitigation solution to minimise impacts on surrounding properties where possible.
• The frst dwellings are expected to be operational by midDecember, with fnal completion occurring in early 2023.
• The NSW Government commissioned independent consultants to undertake food modelling of different scenarios at the site then determined the most appropriate design option for the site.
“This design option was selected on the basis of it improving outcomes to the greatest number of properties surrounding the site, while enabling construction to proceed in the quickest timeframe possible,” Resilience NSW statement.
The full Flood Impact Assessment is available at www.nsw.gov.au/foods/ recovery/temporary-housing
By MARGARET DEKKER
Pet owners across the Northern Rivers are warned tick antiserum levels - used to treat advanced paralysis tick attachment - are now at critically low levels.
“Please share with anyone local with a dog or cat, that paralysis ticks are active, and vets have low to no tick serum until next month,” one pet owner posted to Tweed Coast social media.
The Australian Vet Association has advised veterinarians of the current, nationwide shortage of the antiserum.
“This is a result of a sudden increase in demand due to tick resurgence with the change in weather. There
are anecdotal reports that there may have been some complacency in tick prevention by owners during the winter and drought in many locations, leaving many animals unprotected.”
“Concurrently there is one main manufacturer servicing the market
and they are at full production capacity,” the Australian Vet Association advised last week.
The University of Queensland Vets’ Small Animal Hospital says it will now be even more diffcult for a vet to treat a suffering animal.
“The best thing we can do for our pets to avoid even needing to see a vet for treatment due to tick envenomation is to make sure they are on a wellrounded preventative and to triple check your current preventive NOW to make sure it also covers paralysis
ticks!” The University of Queensland Vets advise. Steps to follow to keep your pet(s) safer:
• Provide your pet with a preventative (ask your vet if unsure of type)
• Ensure preventatives are taken as frequently as the box recommends
• Set a calendar
What better way to top off a year like 2022 than to get Covid?
After avoiding the plague for two and a half years successfully, those two little lines jumped out at me after a visit south to attend a funeral a couple of weekends ago.
The high temperature and achy bones had warned me of the impending result, but I had already had a clue when my girlfriend, who I shared an apartment with to attend the funeral, advised me her husband had tested
positive.
While isolation is no longer mandated, I couldn’t in any good conscience, go
wandering through the masses, spreading the love, so to speak, so I stayed home and cancelled all
appointments. It just happened to be a very busy week.
The builder was meant to start on the vanity
area upstairs, so this was postponed.
Friends were coming to visit, so they were put off and the most heart-breaking of all, my son’s formal was last Thursday.
My one concession was to attend their arrival at the venue wearing a mask. My husband went stag, however, for the dinner and speeches as by the time they had all arrived in their finery and taken photos, I was exhausted. So home I went to soak in a hot bath.
Hopefully, I will be on
reminder for when preventatives are due
• Check your pet
DAILY for ticks
• Keep your grass short “Unfortunately, we are seeing high numbers of tick cases this year, but the good news is there are easy at home steps you can take to keep your pets from experiencing life-threating tick envenomation. We are so lucky to have tick prevention products available for our pets so it’s important we are giving this to them.”
The University of Queensland Vets maintain if you fnd a tick on your pet, the safest thing to do is contact your vet, even if your pet is on a preventative.
“Please still call your vet for support.”
the mend by next week, so the builder can come back and the vanity can be installed, which means no more brushing of teeth in the kitchen sink.
We also have a few deliveries of furniture due, including a dining table and entertainment unit. I spied a lovely bookcase on Marketplace but am trying to work out how to get it home, when it looks bigger than the car can carry.
Little steps.
Thyme Lifestyle Resort Evans Head has offcially begun work on its new multimillion dollar Clubhouse for its over 50’s lifestyle community, encouraging health, wellness, and socialisation for homeowners.
Richmond Valley Council Mayor, Councillor Robert Mustow and Serenitas CEO Rob Nichols this morning turned the frst sod on its
multimillion Clubhouse at Thyme Evans Head. They were also joined by Thyme Evans Head homeowners who will get to enjoy the Clubhouse facilities when it offcially opens next year.
Thyme Lifestyle Resort Evans Head is located in the Northern Rivers region of NSW with communities throughout QLD and NSW.
Serenitas CEO Rob Nichols says
“We are thrilled to be commencing construction of the multi-million-dollar Clubhouse at Thyme Evans Head. The positive response to what we have created so far has been exceptional with our team accelerating our project plan to meet demand. The new Clubhouse will no doubt enhance what is already a truly remarkable coastal community.”
“The design and facilities
of this Clubhouse is such an important component in cultivating a thriving community as it encourages homeowners to socialise with one another, build friendships and participate in health and wellness activities”
“Our focus is to create a lively and active community, building on the many benefts already on offer at
Thyme
The new Clubhouse at Thyme Evans Head will stand proudly in the heart of the community and will include state of the art facilities such
has created a Clubhouse that is state of the art in both its design and function, incorporating popular resort facilities and distinct zones for socialising, exercising and entertainment. I look forward to offcially opening the doors to the
as a bowling green, art and craft studio, alfresco BBQ dining, community kitchen, bar and an outdoor pool.
“Our experienced team
Clubhouse next year for our homeowners and for all the special moments that will come with it in the future” adds Mr Nichols
By SAMANTHA ELLEY
Despite their little school being affected by February’s food, Empire Vale Public School came out swinging in this year’s Green Innovation Awards as fnalists.
Their invention was a reusable cup tray made from poly lactic acid, printed on a 3D printer.
“Unlike cardboard cups, these can be recycled,” said students Rubi Nowland, Matthew Tansley, John-Carlo Gonce and Koda Johnson.
“Any design can be printed on them (where) businesses can have their logo on them.
“They can be coloured (as) all colours are available with poly lactic acid.”
The students said they spent all year working on their invention, as the awards are now just a part of their program each year.
The cherry on top of the cake was the little
school being mentioned in state parliament by Greens MP Tamara Smith.
The winners for this year’s Green Innovation Awards were Dunoon Public School in the primary division and St Paul’s College, Kempsey for the high school division.
Dunoon did a community walk to raise awareness of clothing
waste by tying together old clothes to show how much a person wastes in a year with facts spread through the walk.
St Paul’s used baskets over their bottle bins to encourage kids to participate in recycling.
“To say it’s been a tough year on the Northern Rivers is an understatement,” said Green Innovation CEO Dr Bridie Cullinane.
“So, the schools even getting to the fnals event is a big show of resilience.
“The ideas were the best that we’ve seen and outside the box.
“It was a great uplifting experience for everyone involved.”
Dr Cullinane said 20 schools were registered this year and the eight fnalists were all from the Northern Rivers region.
Residents in a new Junction Hill housing estate, near Grafton, are counting the costs of a violent storm which ripped through the region late on Saturday afternoon.
At least one house under construction collapsed, roofs were ripped off or damaged and at least one vehicle was crushed by a falling tree.
The NSW SES scrambled addition units from Casino, Coffs Harbour, Dorrigo, Lismore and Ballina to the area to begin running repairs and removing fallen trees.
The storm also blacked out about 8500 homes in the Clarence Valley with some regions remaining without power until Sunday
Residents said the storm which struck around 4.30pm on Saturday was extremely violent.
One resident who was fortunate only to lose several panels of metal fencing and an air conditioning unit, said his family had only moved into their new house three weeks earlier.
He said the wind was incredibly strong, blowing the rain and hail sideways into buildings.
“The hail was small
to start with, but got up to about golf ball size, although it was fairly soft,” he said.
“But it was smashing into the air conditioning unit on the side of the house and bent the blades of the fan.”
He said the most frightening aspect of the storm was the fying sheets of fence panel and other debris launched into the air.
“A sheet of fy metal hit my fence and cut it open like a knife,” he said. “If that had hit a person it would have cut them in half.”
One of the most noticeable items of debris were hundreds of pieces of polystyrene foam, used in a new construction technique called waffe pod slabs. The technique involves pouring concrete over polystyrene placed on the
ground to form the slab.
Junction Hill residents said there were a number of sites ready for a pour when the storm hit, scattering the polystyrene pieces through the estate and onto neighbouring farmland.
Electricity supplier
Essential Energy worked for more than 24 hours straight to restore power to a large section of the Clarence Valley including homes and businesses in Grafton, South Grafton, Waterview Heights, Clarenza, Coutts Crossing, Ulmarra and surrounding towns.
Essential Energy operations manager coastal Chris Maccoll said power had been restored to a majority of residents by midnight on Saturday, but some including about 250 properties
He said the storm had cause signifcant damage to the electricity network including snapping a high voltage power pole just outside the Grafton Zone substation.
The need for specialised large machinery and safe access to parts of the damaged network were a challenge for repair crews.
Mr Maccoll said
Essential Energy crews worked throughout Sunday 250 residents located in parts of Waterview Heights and Chambigne.
He said repairs to the network were complete with power returned to most customers.
“Customers who remain without power need to engage an electrician to complete repairs to their privately-owned electricity assets,” Mr Macoll said.
It appeared the storm had a narrow front which swept across Waterview and the estate on the outskirts of Junction Hill.
Residents in the older section of Junction Hill had some problems, including leaking roofs, but were spared the structural mayhem inficted on buildings less than 1km away.
For many of the crowds who focked to the shop on Sunday, it as reassuring the shop will remain open as an ice cream store and the staff have the option to stay on.
“People were worried the shop was shutting and we were hanging up our scoops,” Jeff said.
“Nothing could be further from it. The shop will stay open and I will be working with the new owner for the frst week or so to ease him in.
“I will be urging him to keep things as they are until he gets a good understanding of the business before he makes any changes.”
The Smiths also see big opportunities for growth in their mobile business.
something we’re doing already to some extent.”
Jeff said he would continue make ice cream, particularly the much-loved Jacaranda “favour”.
“That’s something the new owner asked frst up, if we could continue to supply the purple ice cream,” Jeff said.
Sunday’s farewell party was a typical I Scream function, full of fun with a nod to the past.
“All the staff wore a different version of the I Scream uniform, which has changed over the years.
By TIM HOWARDAfter 13 years the owners of Grafton ice cream parlour and retro cafe I Scream, Jeff and Robyn Smith might have wondered what the store meant to their town.
On Sunday the couple found out when news of an I Scream shop
mobile operations and manufacture of the ice cream.”
It seemed to do the trick. A serious offer came in and from Monday the shop front has changed its name to Ice Cream Haven, with sign writers booked in to do the make over.
Jeff said he would keep
difference to their town.
“There were a couple of ice cream shops around, but they were, I don’t know, a bit so-so,” he said.
“We wanted something that was different and had a bit of life in it.
“And we wanted to get back to the retro cafe look with the booths so
“It was crazy this year,” he said. “We made 1000 litres which just lasted until the end of the carnival.
“We actually had to make another 50 litres last week because there were still people enough people around to look at the tree after the festival was offcially over.”
Ever since the business opening, an I Scream van or cart has been almost part of the furniture at just about any outdoor event in the region.
“There is defnitely more area for growth in that. We can look at catering to birthday parties and other social events. In fact it’s
“I wore the frst version and we worked chronologically through the staff allocating a uniform to each depending on length of service.
Robyn said the most recent staff member
Telea Morley had only been a year old when the shop opened.
“It makes you realise how long the shop has been here when you think of it like that,” she said.
farewell party drew hundreds of people to the shop in Prince St, Grafton.
It was a chance for customers and former staff to say farewell to the location which has become a fxture in their lives.
It has been no secret the Smiths have wanted to sell the business since the start of the year, but buyers were thin on the ground.
“Basically there was no-one I would call serious,” Jeff said. “So by June, with no offers, I thought I would have to do something different.
“We decided to split the business and keep the
the new owner’s name under wraps until the opening, which means The Northern Rivers Times will introduce him next edition.
The Smiths decided to keep the I Scream brand going, maintaining their mobile caravan and carts and making their signature ice creams.
In the meantime there is a lot to refect on from an idea 13 years ago that looked like a massive gamble, but has morphed into a icon that’s become a fxture of life in Grafton.
Jeff said the main driver for him and Robyn was to build a business which would make a
families or couples or groups of friends could make it more intimate.”
The concept proved an instant hit with Grafton residents who quickly learned to factor in a visit to I Scream during a trip down town.
“We’ve got to know so many people just because we see them come into the shop so often,” Jeff said.
“And for a lot of families buying an ice cream cake for birthdays and other celebrations has come a tradition.”
And of course there is the purple ice cream which has become standard fare at Jacaranda time.
The legendary Tyalgum Hotel in the Tweed Hinterland prepares to reopen
And so the classic Slim Dusty ballad goes.
But for the 3,000 residents of the Tweed Valley village of Tyalgum, there’s
been no beer, countermeals, house wine or meeting place for at least six months as new ownership and hotel re-licencing issues get sorted.
But come December 15, all that will change with Tyalgum Hotel set to reopen its historic doors once more.
The Kitchen and Bottle Shop have expanded and
with a new carpet and paintjob “in keeping with the cultural listing of the main street,” something special is brewing.
“We don’t want to stay closed any longer then needed, so our staged opening will commence from the 15th of December,” Tyalgum Hotel’s website states.
The community’s favourite Tyalgum Hotel
swimming pool and grounds will have a new fence and turf in time for summer swimming – and a new playground will be installed in early 2023 with further plans to expand the undercover capacity in the Beer Garden.
“ .. and yes, dogs are welcome to join you for a drink in the Beer Garden,” the Tyalgum
Hotel website welcomes.
“We’re so much looking forward to meeting all the locals and regular visitors to the Tyalgum Hotel. We’re truly inspired to be taking over this wonderful historic pub with such a genuine community spirit. It’s exciting times for all of us with a terrifc summer season to look forward
to. We can’t wait!”
.. As locals continue to wait for the reopening of Tyalgum Road direct to Murwillumbah, still closed to traffc after extensive food damage in February. Access to Tyalgum continues via Chillingham.
Join NSW Fair Trading for a range of free presentations to get the latest information on managing a retirement village, or what you need to know about choosing a retirement village and what your rights and obligations are when living in a retirement village.
• What to expect from an audit
• How to use the Retirement Village Portal
• What to know about the information sharing rules introduced 1 Sept 2022
• Your budget, asset management plan and exit entitlement obligations
• What to consider when choosing a retirement village
• Rights and obligations when living in a retirement village
• Legal and fnancial advice
Thursday 1 December, 9.30am – 12noon
Byron Islander Resort, 1 Ronan Place Ballina
has the opportunity to contribute to creating a rail trail we can all be proud of,” Tweed Shire Council states.
“Eventually, it’s envisaged the new shared-user path will connect the Tweed Valley with Byron Shire, Lismore, and Casino. To be delivered in 4 stages, the 132 km trail is expected to draw thousands of visitors each year to explore and discover the natural beauty and history of the Northern Rivers.”
Whole Trail Update Lismore City Council has secured funding for the 16.3 km South Lismore to Bentley section and work is underway to secure
By MARGARET DEKKERA ‘Community Conversation’ held in Murwillumbah about the upcoming Northern Rivers Rail Trail, showed eager locals the fner details of the $14.3 million project, right down to its trail stations and signage.
As works by Hazell Bros visibly take shape along the 24-kilometre ‘Tweed Section’ of trail, the full vision is now nearly a reality.
“The briefng showcased the
completed Construction Plan (128 pages) with group sessions discussing what will feature along the trail at Murwillumbah Railway Station, Dunbible, Stokers Siding, Burringbar, Upper Burringbar, Mooball and Crabbes Creek, and identify any gaps,” Tweed Shire Council stated.
“The trail will celebrate the heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, 18 historic railway bridges, 2 tunnels and stunning scenic landscapes of the
world heritage-listed Tweed caldera.”
The initial Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail will meander south from Murwillumbah through Stokers Siding, Burringbar, Mooball and Crabbes Creek before terminating at the Shire’s southern-most boundary at Crabbes Creek/ Wooyung.
$600k of NSW Government funding will cover operating and maintenance costs of the Tweed section of the Rail Trail for its frst 3-years.
“It will provide a safe, off-road active transport route for residents and visitors,” Tweed Shire Council promotes.
On Track for Grand Opening in early ‘23
A session was also held on what’s to come as
the Tweed community prepares for the Northern Rivers Rail Trail’s
funds for the 15.5 km leg between Eltham and South Lismore. The
grand (re)opening early next year, including partner, supporter, and explorer programs to activate the trail, website development, and opening events featuring community celebrations.
“This is a wonderful community asset, and it is important to us that the Tweed community
13.4 km stretch between Casino and Bentley in the Richmond Valley is fully funded and also due to open in 2023.
When fnally, fully completed, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail will traverse 132 kilometres of glorious local country from Casino to Murwillumbah.
By TIM HOWARD
The number 11 will always have added meaning for Grafton boy Fitzroy McAndrew, but this year’s birthday was a first for him.
Born on November 11, 2011 – or 11/11/11 – last Friday he added another 11 to the score, celebrating his 11th birthday.
His parents Kieran and Katrina made sure the number feature strongly in the party decorations for the birthday bash they threw for Fitzroy and his mates on Friday.
“We made caps for everyone feature the date 11/11/11,” Kieran said.
“I’m no numerologist but from what I have read online it seems the number 11 is a powerful number, a master number,” Kieran said.
“When there are consecutive 11s then the power is said to be amplified.”
He celebrated his birthday at school (Clarence Valley Anglican School) then with a party at home in Grafton.
“Numerologists see 11 as a sign of enormous power and say that people who embody it often display
heightened intuition, natural intelligence, and spiritual insight,” Kieran said. “They also say that people strong with 11s are likely to be helpers, sensitive and at one with the universe.
“(Mum) Katrina and I
agree that those words suit Fitzroy perfectly.
“Fitzroy has never been interested in traditional boy pursuits like sports and cars, he is a softer caring soul, loved by all.”
Surfers can be so headstrong!
By MARGARET DEKKERTalk about headstrong surfers heading to the surf to make a stand!
It certainly gives new meaning to the term, ‘getting vertical.’
This dramatic moment of the head-standing
surfer was captured at Wategos in Byron Bay last week as the sun set and the Northerlies finally headed north (together with this surfer’s toes ..)
Taken by fellow waterman David Cavagna, the photo was shared on social
media in the hope this unnamed ‘surf-head’ would eventually be identified. Surely not everyone can do this?!
It’s a stunning reminder of how ‘wonder-full’ our local world is.
Eligible businesses can now register as an approved provider for the Premier’s Back to School NSW program, which will deliver families $150 worth of vouchers for each child enrolled to attend school in 2023.
Premier Dominic Perrottet said a new school year is an expensive time for families, and this new program will help them pay for essential items.
“The NSW Government is standing alongside families and providing a boost to household budgets by providing financial support to cover some of the costs of essential school supplies,” Mr Perrottet said.
“Three $50 Premier’s Back to School NSW Vouchers are available for each child and can be spent on supplies at any registered business – from school uniforms and prescribed textbooks to general stationery and equipment, such as lunchboxes and drink bottles.
“We are encouraging all businesses who stock school supplies to register as a provider as soon as possible, to ensure all families are able to take advantage of the program before the 2023 school year begins.”
Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said that the back to school period is exciting for families, but can also be stressful with school supplies adding up quickly.
“No matter if your child goes to a public or non-government school, you will have access to the Premier’s Back to School NSW Vouchers,” Ms Mitchell said.
“It’s just one of many cost of living measures the NSW Government is delivering to support families. These vouchers will help parents and carers in getting their students ready for the 2023 school year, so I urge businesses to register early so parents can start planning their back to school checklists.”
“These vouchers will not only be good for families but as we’ve seen from past programs, businesses will benefit from the extra spending stimulated by the
vouchers, which will be available to around 1.3 million school children.”
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said the registration process will be simple and available online.
“Eligible businesses can register as providers through the Service NSW website from today or by speaking with a Business Concierge who can lead them through the process,” Mr Dominello said.
“The vouchers will be redeemed using the same app many businesses already have on their devices, so approved providers simply need to ensure the Service NSW for Business app is updated to begin scanning.
“This program is one of more than 70 ways the NSW Government is providing hip pocket relief to households.”
All businesses who register as a provider, whether part of a national chain or a standalone small business, will be listed on the Service NSW website so they will be easy to find when families are looking to save on school supplies.
The Premier’s Back to School NSW vouchers will be available for parents to download and use from December.
Further details will be announced shortly.
For more information about the Premier’s Back to School NSW Vouchers and how to accept and redeem vouchers, visit www. service.nsw.gov.au/ back-to-school-vouchers, call Service NSW on 13 77 88 or book a call with a Business Concierge.
Information on how a business can register for the program is available at https://www.service. nsw.gov.au/transaction/ register-a-business-forback-to-school-vouchers
For more information about the NSW Government’s range of rebates and discounts, visit https://www.service. nsw.gov.au/campaign/ savings-finder or make an appointment with a Savings Specialists via phone on 13 77 88 or visiting a Service NSW centre.
Tweed Shire Council’s planning team has taken top honours at the prestigious 2022 NSW Awards for Planning Excellence, receiving the President’s Award and a Commendation in the Planning for Country category.
The awards –announced at the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) gala event in Sydney last Thursday – were received in recognition of the launch earlier this year of Council’s inaugural Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Town Planner Development Program.
Inspired by Melbourne-based Indigenous architect Jefa Greenaway, the program was developed in collaboration with Griffth University and the Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council and aims to increase the number of First Nations town planners in the Tweed and ultimately, Australia.
Under the program, successful First Nations students studying town planning at Griffth University are awarded a scholarship towards their tuition, as well as paid work experience equivalent to one day a week during their studies in Council’s planning division.
Council’s Planning Director Vince Connell
said he was delighted with the recognition for the program, which recently saw the frst successful applicant start work at Council.
“We are thrilled to receive the PIA NSW President’s Award which is judged across all of the awards entries, a huge achievement taking into account the high standard of other winning categories,” Mr Connell said.
“I was approached by so many people on the night who were interested in our program and I look forward to seeing this exciting initiative fourish in the months and years to come.”
Mr Connell said this
unique, collaborative
adaptability, fexibility
development program was fully funded, culturally appropriate, sensitive to work/study balance, and offered educational, workplace and cultural trainee support.
“We hope the program serves as a model for other organisations to broaden the representation of Indigenous people in town planning and allied professions and which will ultimately lead to greater Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education and employment outcomes,” he said.
“This should also result in a more diverse town planning profession that can help lead culturally sensitive planning outcomes in Australia.
“Patience, respect,
and willingness to play the long game are the critical aspects of the initial success of this program.”
The Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) is the peak national body representing town planning and the planning profession in Australia and represents approximately 5,000 members nationally and internationally.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Town Planner Career Development Program is supported by Griffth University’s GUMURRII Student Success Unit and the Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council.
For more information, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/ town-planner-program.
Private landholders in New South Wales are backing a push to significantly increase koala habitat in an effort to bring Australia’s iconic emblem back from the brink.
Koalas on the east coast of Australia are facing a grim future. Following severe population declines, made worse by the catastrophic bushfires of 2019-20, koalas were officially declared endangered in NSW, Queensland, and the ACT in February this year.
The Worldwide Fund for Nature-Australia (WWF-Australia) has partnered with ecological restoration specialists Envite Environment to identify areas around the Richmond Valley in Northern NSW that would support the expansion of koala habitat to sustain healthy populations into the future.
“There is a future for koalas on Australia’s east coast, but they need a big
helping hand to recover. We need to protect and restore large areas of koala habitat and create corridors to reconnect isolated populations,” said Tanya Pritchard, Landscape Restoration Project Manager at WWF-Australia.
Envite recognized that to achieve the outcomes needed and create important habitat corridors, there was a need to engage private landowners in the project.
“We need to plant around 23,000 food and habitat trees in the Richmond Valley in areas where there is the
best chance of survival and the greatest impact on koala populations,” said Dan Cox, Area Manager for Envite Environment.
“Thankfully we had established some strong connections with landowners on previous projects who generously offered up their properties for planting” added Dan.
Envite have commenced planting on properties in Tatham, Ruthven, Bungawalbin and Coraki in Northern NSW with a view to regenerating more than 100 hectares of prime koala habitat.
Sue Higginson and Adam Dawson’s property is already a haven for koalas, and they have enthusiastically encouraged an expansion of habitat on their property.
“My work as a public interest environmental lawyer and now a member of the NSW Parliament has given me a real insight into how much trouble our iconic koala is in. Last year we learnt that koalas are likely to be extinct in the wild in NSW by 2050 if we don’t take real action to protect them. So, in addition to my work
off farm, Adam and I decided we needed to do more,” said property owner, Sue Higginson.
“We love living with koalas and have been planting koalas’ trees on the farm for years. We realised that if we are going to make a difference to the local population, we need to plant more trees and quicker. We are thrilled that with WWF and Envite we have now done this. We also believe that this planting will increase the resilience of our farm and therefore its productivity in the long term.”
“Sue and Adam’s property forms part of the Pelican Creek Corridor and has the potential to expand into critical koala habitat. We’re planting around 10,000 food and habitat trees across the property,” said Dan.
Envite also provide important education and mentoring to landowners to help them identify
plants and weeds, so they can maintain the seedlings and ensure they grow into healthy trees.
The project hasn’t been without its challenges with widespread flooding across the region in 2022 decimating earlier plantings and delaying completion of the project.
“The floods were truly devastating, but the camaraderie and commitment we’ve seen from people in the Northern Rivers gives me hope. With the help of more landholders like Sue and Adam, we can give koalas the chance to thrive, not just survive,” said Tanya.
This initiative is part of a broader suite of projects led by WWFAustralia to help double the number of koalas across eastern Australia by 2050. This project is supported by the Australian Government’s Bushfire Recovery for Wildlife and their Habitat program.
The draft Far North Coast Regional Water Strategy is on public display, and the community is invited to have its say on shortlisted options to deliver safer, more secure and reliable water for the region over the coming decades.
Kaia Hodge, Executive Director Water Strategy and Policy for the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, said the strategy was refined after first going on exhibition in 2020, and stakeholders will have until 11 December 2022 to lodge a submission before it is finalised.
“During the last consultation, we heard from Aboriginal communities, residents, businesses, farmers, stakeholder groups and Councils on how we can best address the water needs and deliver solutions for Lismore, Byron Bay, Ballina, Casino, Tweed Heads, and the entire region, for the next 20 years and beyond,” Ms Hodge said.
“We listened carefully to that feedback and are now proposing a shortlist of the best actions to ensure residents, industries and the environment have their water needs met over the long term.
“The Far North Coast is one of the fastest growing regions in the state, particularly off the back of COVID, and we expect towns and cities will continue to grow. Despite the recent wet weather and major flooding, which has had devastating impact on communities across the region, we know that we face a more variable climate in the years to come, with more intense storm events. We may face a drier climate overall, but there will continue to be periods of extreme wet weather.
“These challenges will put increased pressure on our water supply, and this is why we need to prepare now to secure a stronger water future for the region.
“We also need to balance the needs of the entire region and deliver solutions to best support our First Nations communities, the booming agricultural industry which contributes to the region’s $13 billion on
average annually to the economy, our towns and cities, and the environment.”
Shortlisted options include:
• Delivering a river rehabilitation program to improve the health of rivers and their ecosystems, including native and threatened frogs and fish
• Improving fish passage at high priority sites and installing fish screens to protect fish from irrigation pumps
• Innovative water supply options, including recycled water and managed aquifer recharge
• Improving our scientific knowledge of groundwater sources and the way we manage them
• Supporting Aboriginal people so they are more involved in water management, and integrating their traditional knowledge into decision-making Media Release
Department of Planning and Environment
• Supporting landholders to improve their land and farm management, which will help improve waterway health
• Improving our understanding of saltwater intrusion and its risks, to inform better management
The Department will also support Councils as they continue to improve water efficiency and explore new storage and infrastructure options.
The strategy and shortlisted options will be on display from 1 November to 11 December 2022 to ensure everyone has an opportunity to have their voice heard.
A webinar and faceto-face consultations will be held during the exhibition period.
Some sessions will also provide the community with a chance to learn more about the draft Richmond and Tweed water sharing plans, which are also on public exhibition.
For more information and to register your attendance visit: https://water.dpie. nsw.gov.au/plans-andprograms/regionalwater-strategies/ public-exhibition/ far-north-coast-regionalwater-strategy
A public hearing will be held to discuss a proposal by Council to reclassify 6 parcels of land at various locations across the Tweed from community to operational use.
Under the Local Government Act 1993, all public land is to be classified for either community or operational use, with any planning proposal to change classification to require a public hearing.
Planning proposal PP21/0003 has been placed on public exhibition and seeks to reclassify 6 parcels of land from community to operational including at Doon Doon, Murwillumbah and Bogangar.
In the first case, Council is seeking to reclassify 4 parcels of land at Doon Doon it has acquired as part
of its project to raise Clarrie Hall Dam wall to increase the water storage capacity of the Tweed.
These include:
• Lots 2 and 3 DP 1243701, Jacana Lane, Doon Doon
• Lot 4 DP 1243701, 17 Lone Pine Road, Doon Doon
• Lot 2 DP 1257191, Doon Doon Road, Doon Doon.
In the second case, Council is seeking to reclassify Lot 1 DP 709231 at 5 King Street, Murwillumbah (Sunnyside Mall open public carpark) to facilitate the possible commercialisation of airspace above this lot.
And in the third case, Council is seeking to reclassify the public reserve (unformed carpark) at Lot 3 DP842350, 104 Rosewood Ave, Bogangar to enable the possible sale or lease of this land.
A public hearing, chaired by an independent facilitator, will be held as part of this process, with details as follows:
Public Hearing 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm Wednesday 30 November 2022 Harvard Room, Tweed Shire Council Administration Office 21 Brett Street, Tweed Heads NSW 2485.
Registrations are essential. Visit yoursaytweed.com. au/6-lots-operational to register and to access related documents and information.
Our generous Australian spirit continues to shine in support of the many communities impacted by floods across New South Wales.
Supporters are urged to continue to use established donations channels to ensure flood-affected communities receive the support they need without overwhelming services on the ground.
As of 6 November, GIVIT - which works with local community organisations to ensure the right donations get to those in need quickly and at the right time - has provided more than $6 million in support across New South Wales since the March 2022 floods.
Through generosity and goodwill, GIVIT have raised over $17 million, with over $5.7 million for exclusive use in New South Wales. These donations have been spent on more than 380,000 items to support flood-impacted communities across the state, including vouchers for fuel and food, essential household items and clothing.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery
Steph Cooke said she wholeheartedly welcomes the support, but reminds the community that the best way to help is to donate responsibly.
“The devastating nature of these compounding floods has meant a lot of people have lost precious possessions, and although it is heartwarming to see so many donations and offers, we are asking the community, no matter where they live, to ensure they donate responsibly and don’t send unrequested goods to impacted communities,” said Ms Cooke.
“The NSW Government, in partnership with GIVIT, will continue to work alongside charities and community organisations to assess what support is needed as our communities navigate the recovery phase. These partners continue to assist with managing donated money and offers of goods and services.
“If you want to donate, please consider providing monetary donations to a charity working with flood-affected communities, such as GIVIT via givit.org.
au/storms-and-flooding and those listed on our website at nsw.gov.au/floods/donationssupport,” she said.
Local community organisations continue to identify the needs of those impacted by the floods and regularly request items to meet these needs via GIVIT’s online platform at givit.org. au.
GIVIT purchase and distribute these requested items, including vouchers and essential household goods to meet these needs. Importantly, wherever possible, these items are purchased via local businesses to support the local economy’s recovery.
Some of the examples of how GIVIT has helped people in the Northern Rivers region include an elderly man from Mullumbimby who has been living in his flood affected home.
He reached out for support as he needed a new bed as his old one was flood damaged and mouldy. GIVIT assisted with a voucher to purchase a new bed.
Another example includes a young Lismore mother who was living in a self-contained
unit within her own mother’s home when the floods hit. They were forced to evacuate quickly. Upon returning home they found that water had devastated both homes. Although the building has since been repaired, with no insurance, the young mother needed assistance with replacing essential household items. GIVIT assisted with whitegoods, a bed and baby items.
GIVIT continues to work with local councils and our NSW Government teams to connect with the many valuable charities and community groups that are playing an active role to support the recovery efforts. There are many organisations aiding in the flood recovery effort across that state.
Charities, services and community groups supporting people impacted by flooding in New South Wales are encouraged to register with GIVIT to access donations of essential items for the people they support at GIVIT.org.au/need-help/ organisations
First Light Healthcare, as a leading provider of in-clinic and onsite health, safety and wellbeing services, can help local employers, employees and their insurance providers prevent occupational-related injury and illness, and improve employee engagement, productivity and performance.
We work with you to tailor health and safety programs for your business, and can also assist with the management of Workers Compensation claims.
Our services include:
• Pre-employment medicals / physicals
• Employee health checks
• Ergonomic assessments and advice
• Injury prevention and management programs
• Working from home OH&S assessments
• Vaccination programs ( including COVID vax clinics)
• Skin cancer screening
• Drug and alcohol screening
• EAP Psychological Assistance
• Preventative mental health programs
• Hearing tests ( industrial)
• OH&S auditing and compliance reviews
• Educational material and workshops
First Light Healthcare - Byron Bay
Level 1/6 Marvell Street, Byron Bay, NSW 2481
First Light Healthcare - Ballina
Tamar Village, Suites 10 12, 92 Tamar Street, Ballina, NSW 2478 flhealthcare.com.au
For many years now our wonderful local community has been involved in Adopting a Family for Christmas. e gi of giving, thanks to the generosity of many locals families that don’t have a lot of support around them or are signi cantly disadvantaged this program gives them special moments that they would have never been able to have. Please contact one of the many Community Organisationsthat are involved this year to o er to make a di erence in a families life.
We ask presents not to be wrapped as this allows for carers/parents to be apart of the special process. Hamper/Vouchers such as local supermarkets/cinema/swimming pool is also suggested.
Drop o presents by the second week of December to your organisation of sponsor.
The Richmond Tweed Regional Library’s Mobile Library Service has won the prestig-ious NSW Public Libraries Association Innovation in Outreach Award for its work in the aftermath of the February natural disaster.
Lismore City Council General Manager John Walker paid tribute to the library staff who ensured the community had access to books so soon after the devastation of the natural disaster.
“We all saw the heartbreaking photos of the large pile of sodden books outside the Lismore Library after it was inundated by food waters,” he said.
“It’s an absolute tribute to the library team which could then turn around and quickly adapt the service in such a short time so that our community had access to books and some sense of normality.”
The annual award recognises high-quality outreach programs and services provided by public libraries across New South Wales.
Richmond Tweed Regional Library Manager, Lucy Kinsley, also paid tribute to the li-brary staff.
“The Lismore Library was destroyed, and the Mobile Library was damaged beyond re-pair, but staff ensured the service continued using
the library station wagon and Pop-up Library,” she said.
“This award is recognition of the hard work and determination to provide our region with a continuing service when our communities needed it the most.”
The Mobile Library visits 19 locations across the Lismore, Tweed, Ballina, and Byron Local Government Areas.
Everyone is welcome to come along, get on board, and see what’s on offer. With our semitrailer now back in operation, there’s a lot to see and do. For stop locations and times visit the library website at www.rtrl.nsw.gov.au.
Byron Shire Council has a new Draft Community Engagement Strategy and the community is invited to provide feedback on the document until 1 December.
“This Community Engagement Strategy is a new and important document for Council,” Media and Communications Coordinator, Annie Lewis, said.
“It highlights the importance and value of community and stakeholder input and its role in guiding and shaping the work and projects undertaken
by Council, outlining how and when we communicate and engage.
“We are fortunate that our community actively participates in opportunities to provide feedback to Council on a wide range of issues and our engagement rates are generally very high which is terrifc.
“This draft Strategy takes a close look at who our stakeholders are, and outlines to people the ways that we will engage with them for different projects,” Ms Lewis said.
The Community
Engagement Strategy, after being endorsed by Council, will be part of the suite of Integrated Planning and Report documents which set out how Council is planning and preparing to meet the present and future needs of the community.
Information on the Draft Community Engagement Strategy and how to provide feedback is on Council’s website.
ADOPT-A-FAMILY BE THE REASON SOMEONES SMILES THIS CHRISTMASMobile Library Recognised for Innovative Service
After a two year hiatus, the caravan, camping and land lease living industry has met to celebrate, acknowledge and recognise its survival and success with 14 businesses and individuals awarded for their outstanding product, service and achievements.
Presented by the industry’s peak bodies, the NSW Caravan and Camping Industry Association and the Land Lease Living Industry Association, businesses and individuals have been recognised for exceptional innovation and best practice.
“It is an honour to award the hard work and dedication seen throughout our industry, and these businesses and individuals in particular, by recognising their excellence and contribution,” CCIA NSW President Mark Lindsay said.
Award Winners Caravan & Camping Parks and Trade
The highly coveted NSW Holiday Park of the Year awards went to NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort (more than 100 sites) and BIG4 Myall Holiday Resort (less than 100 sites), with Myall River Camp receiving the NSW Holiday Park Innovation Award.
“With its safari tents, cabins and villas along with ensuite sites and surrounded by the natural beauty of Brisbane Water National Park, NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort on the Central Coast is an exceptional example of what our parks have to offer,” Mr Lindsay said.
“These businesses are setting the benchmark for holiday parks in NSW and offer the kind of holiday experience people are looking for while directly working to drive the increase in domestic visitation.”
The longest running
Australian-Made Camper Trailer manufacturer in the country, Cub Campers have received the NSW Manufacturer of the Year award. Producing high quality products with great service using Australian steel and canvas, they have built their campers from the ground up in their factory in North Rocks, NSW for over 50 years.
Winners include:
NSW Holiday Park of the Year Award (Less than 100 sites) BIG4 River Myall Holiday Resort
NSW Holiday Park of the Year
Award (More than 100 sites) NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort
NSW Holiday Park Innovation Award Myall River Camp NSW Manufacturer of the Year
Cub Campers NSW RV Repairer of the Year: Bold Trailer and Caravan Repair Centre
NSW Trade Dealer/Retailer/ Wholesaler of the Year: Jayco Newcastle
NSW Industry Provider of the
Year: Integrated Site Design
Employee of the YearHoliday Parks: Lisa Collier - North Star Holiday Parks
Employee of the Year - Trade: Matt Kennelly - Cub Campers
Young Achievers of the YearHoliday Parks: Steven Woolridge - Holiday Haven Huskisson Beach Beau Curtis - Ingenia Holidays at One Mile Beach
Award Winners Land Lease Communities
“Our land lease communities provide beautiful lifestyle spaces across the state and the NSW Land Lease Community of the Year Award was shared this year between two exceptional communities in the Port Stephens area,” Mr Lindsay said.
“Latitude One offers residents state-of-the-art community spaces, surrounded by natural bushland with function areas, bowling days, movie experiences and BBQs by the lake while Sunrise Lifestyle Resort residents enjoy a Clubhouse, tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pool, bowling green, games room, and even a resident workshop and garden.
“Both showcase the best of Land Lease Living with an incredible community spirit.”
Winners include:
NSW Land Lease Community of the Year Award
Sunrise Lifestyle Resort by Hometown Australia Latitude One by Ingenia Lifestyle
NSW Land Lease Community Engagement
Employee of the Year - Land Lease Communities: Ann Blair - Plantations by Ingenia Lifestyle
Young Achiever of the YearLand Lease Communities: Lauren Toussaint - Hometown Australia
President’s Award:
Introduced in 2019, this is only the second time the President’s Award has been delivered and recognises the industry’s innovators and builders who have helped to shape the industry over many decades and this year went to Robyn Kingsmill, Phillip & Diane East and Stephen Edwards.
CEO Lyndel Gray said the industry was making an incredible contribution to the NSW economy and in particular the tourism economy for which caravan and camping holidays now account for over 13 million domestic trips each year.
“The caravan and camping sector generates over $4 billion in economic activity across the state each year, directly employing close to 10,000 people and supporting the creation of a further 50,000 jobs.
“As our industry bounces back post-covid, these businesses continue to make a positive contribution to our economy and we are pleased to be recognising the great achievements of our industry through these awards.”
Attracting foot traffc to food affected CBDs; a ‘brains trust’ of locals with expertise, infuence and networks to help with food recovery and future challenges; and identifying community resources and skills are among the initiatives local leaders will work on together to help strengthen the Northern Rivers region.
Seventeen current and emerging leaders from across the Northern Rivers recently came together in Lismore to further develop their leadership skills and build a network committed to action and outcomes. They were selected to attend the leadership development program as part of the Leading Australian Resilient Communities (LARC) program, delivered by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) and the Regional Australia Institute (RAI). LARC is funded by the Australian Government’s Building Resilient Regional Leaders Initiative (Pilot) grant on the back of recent challenges faced by regions such as drought, bushfres, COVID and foods.
“LARC aims to support regional communities in meeting challenges and collectively drive the positive changes they want to see. This is effectively done through a collaborative network of individuals committed and invested in where they live,”
ARLF chief executive Matt Linnegar said.
RAI CEO Liz Ritchie said the program includes place-based multi-day leadership sessions held locally to identify challenges and opportunities.
“Region-specifc data from the RAI underpins the program. The group will receive coaching and support for practical, community
led projects they decide to pursue.” The participants come from diverse backgrounds and experience including small business, agriculture, childcare, education, communications, environment, urban planning, engineering, local government, community and youth engagement and tourism.
Alstonville business owner, Prudence Blennerhassett, is keen to address the challenges of youth homelessness. “I am profoundly aware of the power of diverse thinking and opinions.
Being able to build on an idea and be part of the solution.” Lismorebased communications specialist Rachel Quilty will use her new skills toward strategic planning for the region, with a focus on social infrastructure.
Owen Trembath, a fnance manager in Lismore, says his immediate focus is on economic recovery from the foods in the region. “The CBD has early green shoots of recovery. We have to come up with some ideas, not only to replenish our spirits but to create opportunities to make it attractive for people to visit, live and work here.” Graftonbased Aboriginal Landcare offcer, Michael Kennedy, sees the program as an opportunity to refect on the challenges of the last three years (foods, fres and COVID).
“The impact of foods, fres and COVID have had a detrimental effect on our community. We need to look at the total impact and start to make steps forward to recovery. This program will allow us to work on adaptable ways to build resilience.” Each project group will be sharing progress with the participating cohort in February 2023.
The Albanese Government is delivering on its commitment to back the bush, making critical investments in biosecurity and the timber industry to protect and grow Australia’s vital agricultural and forestry communities.
“The Government’s focus is investing to protect and grow our vibrant agriculture sector now and into the future and our biosecurity system is a pivotal part of this,” Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said.
“The arrival of new pests and diseases into Australia can have devastating and long lasting impacts on producers, regional communities and agricultural exports.
“This year we have seen both foot and mouth disease (FMD) and lumpy skin disease (LSD) emerge in Indonesia, putting Australia on heightened alert.
“Australia remains FMD and LSD-free, thanks to the strongest biosecurity response ever implemented, but we must remain vigilant.
“We are injecting $134.1m into the biosecurity system to ensure this continues to be the case.
“This is the frst step towards delivering our election commitment of a sustainable biosecurity funding model that allows the system to respond to increasing threats.
“Building on our earlier investments to support Indonesia in tackling these diseases and boost our own frontline efforts, we are fast-tracking $61.6m over the next two years toward this effort.
“Originally budgeted over four years, this funding will greatly assist our overall efforts to fll the gaps in our biosecurity system while strengthening our defences in Northern Australia.”
“The Government is also doubling funding for traceability initiatives
which would greatly assist in protecting our livestock industry in the event of such an outbreak,” Minister Watt said.
“Increasingly, consumers want to know the products they’re buying are authentic, clean, green and sustainable.
“We are working with industry and states and territory Agriculture Ministers on a national approach to improve agricultural traceability, with a commitment to implement a new scheme by January 1, 2025.
“This includes a signifcant contribution of $46.7m towards Australia’s livestock traceability ‘contact tracing’ system to maintain our world class system and ensure fast recovery from any potential disease outbreaks and protect Australia’s export trade.
“This is more than double what the previous Morrison Government had budgeted for this program.
“Improved traceability provides transparency in the supply chain and reassurance for consumers – and enhances our biosecurity as well.
“Delivering on our election commitment, we have also committed $11.7m through the budget for an additional 20 detector dogs and handlers to be deployed in airports and mail centres around the country.
“Detector dogs and their handlers are a vital part of our biosecurity system, playing a key role at our border in
preventing the entry of diseases such as FMD,” said Minister Watt.
Australia’s timber industry plays an important role in regional Australia.
“It employs thousands of workers, while providing critical timber supply,” said Minister Watt.
“That’s why we are delivering on our election commitment and providing $100m for an Australia wide institute to deliver forestry research and development; $8.6m to extend the life of the 11 regional forestry hubs until 2027; and $10m for forestry workforce training needs.
“Together these measures will strengthen the forest industry’s capacity to make greater use of the available timber resource and drive innovation and growth,’ said Minister Watt.
“The agricultural sector has had two bumper years, and it is important to look to the future and be ready for the challenges that lie ahead,” Minister Watt said.
“That’s why we have dedicated $20.8m for the government to be prepared for the next drought and to increase adoption of established drought resilience research, so we are ready to support farmers and communities when they need it most.
“And I am pleased to
announce $302 million has been committed through the Natural Heritage Trust to support sustainable agriculture practices and assist land managers to engage in carbon and biodiversity markets.
“We are also providing $4m for an inspectorgeneral for animal welfare, and $12.3m to support regional trade events, like Beef Australia 2024 in Rockhampton.
“The Albanese Government will also deliver on its commitment to introduce mandatory country of origin labelling, greatly assisting consumers fnd fresh, local seafood, supporting our worldclass fsheries industry”
Key agricultural budget initiatives:
• $61.6 million fast tracked to bolster Australia’s biosecurity system
• $11.7 million for more detector dogs
• $46.7 million increased funding for traceability initiatives
• $204.8 million for the forestry sector
• $20.8 million to prepare for the next drought
• $4 million to establish a new Inspector-General for animal welfare
• $12.3 million to support regional trade events
• $8.1 million to develop Australia’s seaweed farming
• $302 million to invest in sustainable agriculture through the Natural Heritage Trust
A series of free school workshops focussed on growing personal and community resilience among young people is being held across the Tweed this month as part of the upcoming Tweed Eco Festival.
The workshops, delivered through the Joyality Project, are targeted at primary school-aged students, and aim to arm them with strategies for generating resilience, participating in preparedness for natural hazards, and sharing their ideas for a climateresilient Tweed.
As part of the educational program, the students will display their artwork at the Tweed Eco Festival to be held at Knox Park in Murwillumbah on Sunday 13 November.
Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry celebrated the program which is helping to build confidence in young people in the Tweed.
“Supporting our young people to feel confident in how our emergency services and community
responds during natural hazards is so important,” Cr Cherry said.
“I’m pleased this program has focussed on building strategies to help young people feel okay when big climate events are happening around us, and to stay positive for a climate-friendly future. I look forward to seeing their artwork and murals at the Tweed Eco Festival.”
The Joyality Project’s lead educator Sara Hicks, who is running
the education program, said children were learning about resilience through meaningful and empowering activities.
“It’s been a difficult year for many young people who’ve been through flood events in the Tweed,” Ms Hicks said.
“Our aim is for students to explore resilience by building their selfawareness, strategies and support networks to help them connect with help and cope with natural
The NSW Government is ofering a new way to assist people on low incomes with their power bills by installing free solar systems for eligible households in place of their Low Income Household Rebate. This program aims to improve energy afordability by helping households unlock long terms savings on their electricity bills. While this means you will no longer receive the $285 annual rebate on your electricity bill, you could receive up to $600 in savings per year from your new solar system!
The ofer is only available to households that live in the specifed regions and meet the eligibility criteria. When participating in this program households will receive a free, fully installed 3kW solar system in place of their Low Income Household Rebate.
SAE Group are the approved provider, designing and installing solar systems to eligible homes in your region.
To be eligible you must:
Currently be receiving the Low Income Household Rebate
Agree not to receive the rebate for ten years
Own your own home
Not already have a solar PV system
Hold a valid Pensioner Concession Card or a Department of Veteran Afairs Gold Card
If you are not the registered homeowner, but your spouse is, you may be considered eligible collectively as a household
A 3kW system is designed to generate an average of 12.6kwh per day, which will deliver electricity savings depending on each household’s energy consumption. Managing Director of SAE Group Glen Ashton comments “We know electricity bills continue to place a lot of pressure on households, and we are pleased to be working with the NSW Government to help ease the pressure on low income households.”
SAE Group are an Australian owned and operated organisation with over ten years’ experience in the solar industry. SAE Group are a Clean Energy Council Approved Retailer, and hold accreditations ISO 9001, ISO 45001 for safety and quality systems. Safety is paramount to us, and it our goal to ensure we provide quality solar systems to eligible households that will deliver ongoing savings for many years to come.
Want to fnd out more?
Visit: https://energysaver.nsw.gov.au/solar-low-income-households to check your eligibility and apply online or visit www.saegroup.com.au or call us on 02 66 389 439. The Solar for Low Income Household Ofer is supported by the NSW Government.
hazard events.”
During the workshops, students will discover their ‘inner powers’ (strengths, personal qualities, mindsets) and learn about healthy coping strategies. They discuss who is around in their family and community to help care for them and other physical resources, and together they generate ideas about actions they can take to build community resilience. So far, students said
the best things they had learned in the workshops were about their own resilience and inner powers, how being prepared can help them feel more resilient, ideas for taking actions, helping themselves and others through challenges and that they have support around them. Some upper primary children said the most important thing they had learned was that they have a voice and their ideas mattered to the community.
The students’ ideas about resilience will be showcased in a collaborative mural display at the Tweed Eco Festival. The mural also incorporates large speech bubbles with personal statements and an audio recording made by the students.
“The voice of young people is often missing in community conversations about resilience and preparedness, and yet they have a unique perspective and many important ideas,” Ms Hicks said.
The public, including other children, are invited to engage and interact with the mural installation during the festival by adding their own ideas for creating an even more climateresilient community.
The Tweed Eco Festival will be held on Sunday 13 November from 9 am to 2 pm at Knox Park, Murwillumbah and will feature eco markets, kids’ activities, food trucks and live entertainment.
Presentations, stallholders and practical workshops will help people take action to be ready for natural hazards and reduce their environmental footprint.
Find out more about the festival and view the full program at tweed.nsw. gov.au/SustainableLiving or visit the Facebook event at fal.cn/ Tweed_Eco_Festival.
The event has been made possible through grant funding from the Australian Government.
ONE quirk of the English language, among countless thousands lurking in our everyday speech, is that reason rhymes with treason, it is only one little ‘t’ away from a notion that near on constitutes its opposite.
Relatedly, a turn of phrase that got me hooked on the power of words when they’re strung together in such a way as to make you feel like an astronaut looking back at earth from outer space. The Canadian anthropologist Northrop Frye once embedded, “What begins as reason soon ends in the conditioned reflexes of an insect state,” into the opening passages of a book called The Stubborn Structure.
Out of all the topics or tantalising ideals human beings have revered, rallied, albeit tried to elevate in place. Reason, or being reasonable is perhaps the cognitive goal that the most able-minded throughout history have deemed most worthy of utilising to determine their actions, as well as outright assess their overall personal worth.
None other than Cicero, one of antiquity’s finest thinkers, who paid the ultimate price for his fine thinking, having his head and hands lopped off and displayed in Rome after becoming involved in a power struggle with Mark Antony following the death of Julius Caesar. Prior to this ultimate example being made at his expense, Cicero had once said: “Reason is the mistress and queen of all things.”
Or in other words, reason ought to figure, if not rule over all we say and do: it should accompany us at every step and turn of the
way. It is little wonder that Cicero was a driving inspiration for the thinkers of the Enlightenment, or otherwise known as the Age of Reason. Not that there was an inordinate amount of reason being shown during this period that spanned from the 1680s through to the 1810s. It did however mark a transition away from religion towards science as being the main framework with which we make sense of the world.
One ironic feature or inclinational facet of this macro shift in interpretative bias is beautifully alluded to by the American comedian George Carlin, who once chimed: “Tell people there’s an invisible man in the sky who created the universe, and the vast majority will believe you. Tell them the paint is wet, and they have to touch it to be sure.”
The arguable poster boy at the very tail end of the Enlightenment period, and cultural super star (a full century before there was even such a thing)
Lord Byron, perhaps best captured the essence of his age when he once noted, “Those who will not reason, are bigots, those who cannot, are fools, and those who dare not, are slaves.”
Near on two hundred years after the passing of Lord Byron, our Information Age presents just as many, if not countless more challenges and threats to the realisation of a true age of reason – which remains a dream no less worth pursuing, or at least believing in, now more so than ever.
Mixed messages coming out of the Albanese Government on urgently needed funding for food damaged roads will provide no solace for Councils left responsible for carrying out the repairs.
Nationals Deputy Leader, Senator Perin Davey echoed the concerns raised by local governments with Local Government NSW (LGNSW) calling the issue a state of emergency.
“Local Government needs help to get our country moving again but all they are getting is mixed messages and self-congratulation from the Government.
“During question time the Minister for Regional Development, Kristy McBain claimed the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LCRI) would be used to fx food impacted roads.
“Meanwhile at Senate Estimates the bureaucrats responsible for the program were saying the program was not a food response program.
“In reality if Councils were to
follow Minister McBain’s advice they would have less funds to undertake routine maintenance and upgrades.
Senator Davey said it was disappointing the Minister was trying to claim credit for responding to the food crisis through an existing, ongoing program designed to support the core business of local governments, not natural disaster response.
Acknowledging some help from the Commonwealth Government for roads damaged by foods through the Australian Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, Senator Davey said consecutive La Niña conditions and ongoing wet means our roads network is severely degraded and more needs to be done.
“At a minimum the Albanese Government should look to match the NSW Government commitment of an additional $50 million pothole fund for councils to get our roads back up to scratch.
According to LGNSW the
urgent call for the NSW and Federal Governments to increase their existing road funding commitments in the wake of this year’s catastrophic foods was unanimously supported by NSW mayors and councillors attending the congress.
As part of the Statewide Roads Emergency, LGNSW is calling for:
• An acceleration and signifcant increase in funding for the $1.1 billion Fixing Local Roads and Fixing Country Bridges program
• A boost to Roadblock Grant funding to compensate for the damage to the regional road network
• New funding to provide councils with plant machinery and skilled workers to expedite road repairs.
“Local governments are already struggling, and many have had to raid their roads budget to bring roads up to scratch its vital that the Albanese Government stop claiming to be giving when telling councils to use their existing funds,” Senator Davey said.
Coffs Coast organisations can now apply for funding to support local community projects under the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants program.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said the $12.5 million annual program supports new or upgraded facilities across sport and recreation, arts and culture, disaster readiness and community infrastructure.
“This is a great chance for our local organisations to seek funding for a project to provide long-term tangible benefts to the community,” Mr Singh said.
“The current round of funding will prioritise
projects in food-affected communities, supporting ongoing efforts to rebuild and repair damaged community infrastructure.
“With foods and storms taking a huge toll on many regions across NSW, it’s great that Infrastructure Grants can be used to help impacted communities get back on their feet.
“A disaster category is not new as we have
previously included drought and bushfreaffected communities for priority funding under the program.”
Mr Singh said Infrastructure Grants can fund construction, alteration, renovation, completion and ft-out of buildings and community infrastructure.
“Types of projects funded include new or upgraded sports grounds, museums, theatres,
homeless shelters and evacuation centres,” Mr Singh said.
“These projects are all about creating resilient, healthy and connected communities, promoting participation in sport, recreation and arts, and boosting social inclusion and disaster resilience.
“Funding under the program is made possible by the Clubgrants Category 3 program, which re-invests profts from registered clubs’ gaming machines into community projects.”
The current round of funding closes on Monday 31 October. For more details visit www. nsw.gov.au/grants-andfunding/responsiblegambling-grants
As National Asbestos Awareness Month starts today (1 November), Council is urging the community to think smart and stay safe when it comes to renovating, with dangerous asbestos still found in thousands of homes across the region.
With at least one in three homes built in Australia before 1990 containing asbestos, Council is urging residents to always book a licensed professional to do an asbestos sample test or to consider purchasing an asbestos testing kit before making a start on any renovation works. Disposing of asbestos, the wrong way or illegally dumping the material can also incur a heavy penalty.
Even something as simple as drilling a hole through a wall can pose a risk if asbestos is present in your home. Once disturbed, the micro fbres in the material, if inhaled, can cause a range of health problems, many of which pose serious health risks.
Sadly, over 4,000 people die from asbestos-related illness every year across the nation. That is more than three times the national road toll.
Asbestos test kits are available to purchase from the front desk at the Murwillumbah Civic Centre for $53.30.
“As a rule, if your home was built or renovated before the 1990s, you should assume there may be asbestos present and take special precautions,” said Council’s manager building and environmental health, planning and regulation Denise Galle. “We want the community to stay safe and be aware of the risks and know what to do in order to identify it and remove it properly.”
The asbestos testing kits provide easy step-by-step instructions on how to take samples safely. The kit includes a mask, sample bags and a pre-paid satchel. The
samples are sent to a certifed asbestos testing company and the results of the test are emailed to the resident.
Once asbestos is identifed, residents are urged to use a licensed asbestos removalist to dispose of the material.
Asbestos waste must not be disposed of in domestic waste bins or stored on a property.
For further information about asbestos management, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/ Asbestos or call (02) 6670 2400. Testing kits are available for purchase and drop off at the Murwillumbah Civic Centre.
To get a licence and a list of removalists, please contact SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50or visit safework.nsw.gov.au/ hazards-a-z/asbestos.
Students wrapping up their schooling on the Coffs Coast will be given the opportunity to access fee-free training to help them rapidly gain new skills for summer jobs in industries experiencing labour shortages such as hospitality, construction and early childhood education.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said the NSW Government’s Summer Skills program will help school leavers fnd their feet as they try to match their early career opportunities with the right training.
“Businesses on the Coffs Coast and across NSW need workers now and this program will help upskill young people and fnd jobs this summer,” Mr Singh said.
“Summer Skills gives young people meaningful opportunities to get jobs, whether it’s a gig at their local café or securing work in the aged care sector.”
Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said the Summer Skills program will deliver 4,000 feefree courses, with a focus on school leavers, as part of the NSW Government’s record $3.1 billion investment in skills and training.
“If you’re completing your HSC, now is the perfect time to get skilled for free and jump straight into a well-paid and rewarding job over the summer,” Mr Henskens said.
“This program is helping people boost their budget by slashing
course costs, so that young people can get the skills they need for the jobs they want – whether that’s to kickstart a career or earn money while they study.
“It will also help businesses address labour shortages so that they can employ more people and have a bumper summer.”
Summer Skills courses will be available for people aged between 16 and 24 who have left school, through TAFE NSW and other registered training organisations.
For more information, go to https://skills. education.nsw.gov.au/ initiatives/summer-skills
If your home was built before 1990, it could contain asbestos.
Asbestos can be found throughout the home, in walls, bathrooms, ceilings, foors, laundries, kitchens, roofs, fences and garages.
Asbestos is dangerous when damaged, disturbed, or deteriorating so you shouldn’t remove it yourself.
Four times more people die from as bestos related diseases annually than on our roads, so during this year’s Nation al Asbestos Awareness Week councils across the north coast in partnership with North East Waste, are asking households to ‘Be Asbestos Ready’.
If you’re looking to renovate, planning ahead will help avoid delays and cost blow outs.
start by contacting a licensed asbestos professional if you aren’t trained to locate, manage, or remove it.
As part of a regional scheme aimed at reducing the unsafe removal of asbestos by home renovators, all Northern Riv ers councils offer subsidised ‘House hold Asbestos Testing’ (HAT) kits. The kits include easy step-by-step instruc tions on how to take samples safely and send to a certifed testing laboratory. The results are then emailed back to residents.
If asbestos is identifed and requires removal, residents are urged to use a licensed removal contractor (https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/
Before you begin a renovation, please follow these three simple steps.
1. Think ahead: Remember that asbestos was used in over 3000 building products and can be found throughout the home.
2. Plan ahead:
Exposure to asbestos fbres can cause cancer. Fibres from disturbed, damaged or deteriorating asbestos are easily inhaled and can be a health risk. There’s no fast or easy way to remove it, so plan ahead to minimise risks and avoid project delays and unexpected costs.
3. Get a professional: Please don’t risk your health, or any one else’s health. If you’re renovating,
hazards-a-z/asbestos ) to remove and dispose of it safely.
Asbestos waste should always be dis posed of at a landfll (https://www.newaste.org.au/asbes tos/#up) licensed to accept it. It is illegal to dispose of asbestos waste in any domestic or commercial bins or anywhere other than a landfll licenced to accept it and doing so can incur very heavy fnes.
For further information about managing household asbestos or obtaining a ‘Household Asbestos Testing (HAT) kit, contact your local council or visit https://www.newaste. org.au/asbestos
For more information on asbestos safe ty, visit asbestos.nsw.gov.au
Be asbestos ready asbestos.nsw.gov.au
fail to notice, when I give you a goodnight lick or kiss, the FURS on your chin are so ferce and sharp they scratch my tongue. You’re supposed to be a lady person, so how come you have sharp furs on your chin like blokes have? If this continues you’ll be able to run away to a Circus as the “Old & Crabby Bearded Lady.”
Oooh..you’ll ‘probly be the star attraction.’
4,572 new patients have taken advantage of the increased fnancial assistance available to people in regional communities who need to travel long distances to receive specialist care.
There is foreboding on my mind right now (‘Leemo Cat’ here) ‘cos I decided to fnally speak to ‘Mum Jane’ about a most disquieting situation that has concerned me about her for ages. I have kept my views to myself to date and refrained from my ‘paw-in-mouth speak.’ BUT, it can’t continue, so I am going to jump off the deep end and speak out. (Ooooh, scarey!) ‘Mum, can we have a talk please?’ She glared and responded by telling me this had better be important ‘cos she is busy painting wooden critters. (Another very long story!) ‘Mum, do you promise to speak the truth when I ask my next question?’ She looked most peeved and responded ‘Leems, just get on with it, I am half-way through painting a Wombat’. (OMG!) ‘Well Mum, you know how you give me a goodnight kiss every night, and I give you a lick or kiss back, well, Mum, I’m not kissing or licking you back any more ‘cos I think secretly you’re a bloke, not a lady.’ Ooooh, I knew I was in mega strife when she splotted paint on the Wombat’s wrong part and said rude words. ‘Leemo, (very irate voice) I am tired, my leg still hurts, and I’m busy painting critters. Please say something that does not resemble the ravings of an inordinately rambunctious drunk Irish Ballad Singer.’
CRIKEY..well, I’ll come right out with it then. ‘Mum, I can’t but
Crikey, perhaps I went just a tad too far with my comments. Her face took on the look of an indignant prune. (one with chin hair.)
Ooooh. I had best calm things down so I fetched her tea & ginger nuts. ‘Mum, don’t take umbrage. My intent is principled. I just want you to look more lovely (a suck up of major proportions) AND I have nifty news for you. My posh lady feline friend ‘Pascalie’ told me about Beauty Salons. They do stuff like the removal of chin fur, hair trims & perms, false fngernails, tattooed eyebrows, fake eyelashes, waxing of legs & body hair, spray tans and many other appearance enhancers.
SO MUM, I took $$ from my meagre Christmas savings and made an appointment for a ‘make over’ to make you look even lovelier. (oopsie, suck-up no 2!) How nifty you’ll look. You are due tomorrow at 6am ‘till late, receiving the ‘Ultra Deluxe’ makeover package ‘cos you’re worth it.’
Well, my kindly intent decidedly fzzled!
Mum almost shouted. ‘Leemo, the growth of little furs on my chin is perfectly normal. You’re the only one whinging. I don’t mention the fur on your face. I am not going to a Beauty Salon. AND, you ridiculous cat, further comment on this topic will mean the cessation of all treats, brushes, ‘Bluey’ on TV and hiding of all of your plush blankies… gottit?’ Oh Dear…the Wombat is splattered, and Mum is crabby.
Time for meesie to disappearsie. ¼ purrsies, Leemo.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said in the Mid North Coast Local Health District, 428 new patients have lodged claims under the Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme (IPTAAS) since August 1, when the NSW Government’s $149.5 million funding boost came into effect.
“It is fantastic that as a Government we are able to help reduce the fnancial burden of regional NSW patients and their families when travelling for treatment,” Mr Singh said.
“The NSW Government has not only increased subsidies for travel and accommodation but there are now tens of thousands more people eligible for the scheme.”
The subsidy for people requiring accommodation has been almost doubled, while the NSW Government has also almost doubled the private vehicle subsidy rate from 22 cents to 40 cents per kilometre for patients who have to travel more than 100
kilometres for care.
As well as receiving more money back, additional patients are now eligible –those attending noncommercial clinical trials, high risk foot clinics, highly specialised publicly funded dental health clinics and ocularists.
Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said the changes are making an enormous difference for people living in our regional and rural communities.
“We know there were people in our regional and rural communities who were not seeking the care they needed because of the high cost of travel and accommodation,” Mrs Taylor said.
“With the increased subsidies now available, many of these people are now receiving lifechanging treatment.
“This crucial program is helping to ensure that no matter where you
live in NSW, you can access the healthcare you need.”
Armidale couple Pat and Robert Hanson thought they’d have to budget for large travel and accommodation costs when Robert learned he needed cancer treatment in Coffs Harbour.
“When Robert was diagnosed with cancer, it was a very stressful and overwhelming time as Robert’s treatment was going to be in Coffs Harbour, 180km away, and he needed six weeks of radiation treatment,” Mrs Hanson said.
“IPTAAS allowed us to travel and stay in Coffs Harbour for that time without needing Robert to drive back and forth, which was a huge relief. It covered our petrol and our accommodation at the hospital, saving us around $3,000.”
Community-based charity Can Assist
provides fnancial support to cancer patients living in rural and regional areas to help access treatment and care.
“I can’t put into words the weight I see lifted when patients and our volunteers realise what the increase in IPTAAS rebates means for them,” Can Assist Executive Director Emma Phillips said.
The NSW Government is launching a comprehensive awareness campaign to promote the benefts of the expanded scheme, which will include fyers, fact sheets, an updated website and social media posts targeting existing, new, and potential patients and their families and carers.
In addition, NSW Health is continuing to review and streamline the IPTAAS application processes to make it easier for patients to lodge claims.
Today I welcomed the introduction of the NSW Reconstruction Authority (NSWRA) Bill into the Parliament. The establishment of the NSW Reconstruction Authority is essential.
Since day one I have advocated for an NSW Reconstruction Authority modelled on the successful QLD Reconstruction Authority (QRA) as a response to the humanitarian disaster caused by the 28 February catastrophic food. It was clear to me we needed an overarching agency to guide preparedness,
response, recovery, reconstruction, mitigation, and transformational adaptation.
Subsequently I made this one of my key recommendations to the Independent Flood Inquiry (O’Kane and Fuller).
I was thrilled to see Commissioners O’Kane and Fuller recommend the establishment of an NSW Reconstruction Authority as an overarching agency.
Importantly the QRA model is very much focused and embedded in community and we will ensure the NSWRA
does the same. The QRA has power to cut through beaurocracy and has only exercised those three times in its 11year existence and the NSWRA will operate in the same cooperative way.
I have been well briefed on the NSWRA Bill and I thank the NSW Minister for Planning Anthony Roberts and his team for their work on it. I appreciated Minister Roberts praised my leadership and advocacy for our communities post our fooding disaster.
I am also working
closely with the NSW Shadow Minister for Planning Paul Scully in the lead up to the bill being debated next week. The approach is rightly one of bipartisanship so that the people in the Lismore Electorate and citizens of NSW will have in place legislation, structures, and machinery of government to respond to better to disasters.
I am carefully considering the bill and will keep the community informed as I follow and debate the legislation in Parliament.
“
”‘MUM JANE has fur on her CHIN… CRIKEY!’
quick Mount Cooperabung track and although there were a couple of bad crashes all competitors walked away unsceathed thanks to the safety controls
Bright and early at 7.00am on Sunday 6th November nearly 40 competitors their cars
ries Hillclimb being run as part of the Coffs Festival of Motorsport. Eleven members of
After 45 Years of Ownership the Hotel Cecil, in the Norther Rivers town of Casino, has a new operator.
Following a successful Expression of Interest campaign in late 2021, the Hotel Cecil has this week settled following an extended settlement negotiated by the purchaser.
The hotel occupies an imposing corner site with main street frontage and is well known for its commanding two storey traditional presence.
Marketing literature at the time of sale noted the $123,000+ per week in sales, via the consistent bar, bistro, and gaming departments, large drivethrough bottleshop, TAB, Café area and on-site carpark which includes surplus land with further potential.
Leonard Bongiovanni of Manenti Quinlan stated that “the purchaser identifed the value add-opportunities having been in the same local hands for around 45 years and
being run entirely under management”.
John Hannigan of John Hannigan Real Estate added “The consolidation of hotels in town with a population of around 11,000 meant the campaign generated plenty of interest”.
While the sale price was not disclosed, it is said to be consistent with market guidance during the campaign of circa $9m.
and race teams were queued at the gate to Mount Cooperabung, eager for the running of ‘Round 1’ of the Red Point (nb: the capitol R & P is part of their company logo) Tri-Se
Grafton Sporting Car Club took part in this round with several taking home trophies for both outright and class wins.
The racing was fast and free over the very
and actions put in place by the hosts ‘Kempsey Sporting Car Club’.
All in all, an outstand ing day of racing was enjoyed by all, with copious Sausage, Steak and Egg n Bacon sand wiches being consumed. Great racing, great hosts and a great series spon sored by RedPoint.
Look out for the remaining two events in the series and indeed the many events being run throughout November as part of the Coffs Coast Festival of Motorsport.
With the recent increases in electricity prices (with more expected) there has never
been a better time to consider a solar and/or battery solution to provide for your electricity needs.
There can be no better investment that will start saving you money from day one, easing the growing cost of living pressure due to
Glenn Rowe - With many years gathering a wealth of experience in the auto electro-mechanical and air conditioning industry, you can rely on Glenn to fully rewire you boat or box trailer among many other services.
rising infation. Typically a residential solar system will pay for itself in 3-5 years (20-30% return on investment) and for business properties the returns are even greater. The more power your property uses the greater the savings. We can also offer $0 deposit
Being a mobile service, there is no need to worry about getting your project into the shop, Glenn will come to you and provide a quote in a timely manner.
We can help with solar panels, electric brake units,
Green Loans that are cashfow positive from day 1. Why pay money to the big electricity retailers when you can use that money to pay for your solar system and future proof your energy costs?
Call our offce today to fnd out more!
www.northcoaststockfeed.com.au northcoaststockfeed@bigpond.com
to ensuring maximum mechanical accuracy and functionality and a safe and quality assured performance. Call now for a quote on 0477 123 586 and get the boat safely out on the water this summer.
Countryfolk Workwear & Apparel are run by sister duo Lauren and Jessica Thomas.
brands like King Gee, FXD, Levi, Hard Yakka, Greenhip Workwear for Women and Ringers Western, the girls are committed to
We have moved to Casino!
Summerland Tool Supplies offer the largest range of high quality power tools in the Northern Rivers Region. We sell an outstanding range of tool boxes, welding gear, generators, laser levels, spanners, sockets, hole saws
fnding the right gear for you!
The sisters have lived in Kyogle on and off for nearly 2 decades and are raising their small families there. They both volunteer in many community groups, for local markets and festivals as well as running Countryfolk Monday -
and much more.
Whether you are a mechanic, carpenter, electrician, plumber, bricklayer or any other tradie, our team is dedicated to equipping you with the gear you depend on. Since 1989, our family owned
Saturday. They made large donations of socks, underwear and work clothing after the tragic foods in Lismore and are determined to see our communities up and running again in quality affordable work clothing.
Come in and have a chat to
and operated store has been supplying tools, equipment and supplies to the local community, for many years in Lismore and now out of our new store in Casino.
We carry products from the most trusted brand names
the girls about your personal or business needs! You are always greeted with a smile! Countryfolk Workwear &
Apparel 67-71 Summerland Way Kyogle NSW 2474
including KC Tools, Molytec, UNIMIG, Drill Doctor, Kincrome, Katana, Lavar, Westinghouse Generations, Metabo, Puma Compressors, Eurotech and more.
Contact us or drop in and see Butch and the team at 137-141 Johnston Street, Casino.
One of Australia’s fnest folk and roots duos, Ash Bell and Sara Tindley, will perform live at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre on Friday 18 November 2022.
The event will raise funds for the Sierra Learners Association to help underprivileged children in West Africa.
Sarah King, Founder of Sierra Learners Association, is proud to bring the event to Lennox Head and said “All proceeds from the event will help provide quality education for underprivileged children in schools and communities through libraries and scholarships in Sierra Leone, West Africa. Funds also help us to engage the services of young capable women as
library teachers to support the children with reading”.
“It will be a wonderful evening of music that we hope will result in a big boost to our fundraising efforts, especially after losing so many books in the Lismore foods that were destined for the children in West Africa.” added Sarah King.
Ash Bell and Sara Tindley are two of Australia’s most celebrated singer/ songwriters. Together they form a timeless folk and roots collaboration born of tough love and deep humanity, their music is very moving. Renowned artists in their own right, Tindley with four highly acclaimed studio albums, and Bell the former front man of Starboard
Cannons, a festival favourite. Supporting them is the sublime Sylvie Millard, performing a soulful set of original songs.
Sierra Learners have been supporting communities in Sierra Leone since 2012 by providing books, computers and libraries. When the project started about ffty percent of young people could not read or write.
Sierra Learners provides educational opportunities for children who would otherwise be left behind.
Tickets are just $25 plus booking fee and children under 16 are free. Tickets to the fundraising event are available online, please visit www.communityspaces. com.au/tickets
Coffs Harbour businesses are about to get a boost from the city’s bypass, with an industry briefng being held for local subcontractors and suppliers by major contractor Ferrovial Gamuda Joint Venture.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said with major construction to kick off early next year, the project team is keen to ensure it works with local businesses that want to be part of this game-changing project.
“When complete, the 14-kilometre bypass will enhance the Coffs CBD by removing more than 12,000 vehicles from the heart of town, making it easier for locals and tourists to get around,” Mr Singh said.
“It’s great to see Ferrovial Gamuda Joint Venture is working hard to ensure the project maximises its use of local contractors and suppliers and is engaging with them at this early stage, to start building these important
relationships.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said a key goal for the Coffs Harbour bypass is to generate local economic activity and upskill local businesses to work with major contractors.
“There will be opportunities for all kinds of businesses and I encourage business representatives and contractors who believe they might have something to offer this project to attend this briefng,” Mr Farraway said.
“There will be a strong focus on engaging with local suppliers and contractors and ensuring the project does not place extra pressure on an already crowded accommodation market in Coffs Harbour and the surrounding area.”
While work is being done to fnalise the detailed design for the Coffs Harbour bypass, the industry briefng is an opportunity for local businesses to
learn more about the project, including the staging of works and future opportunities during construction.
The event will include a presentation from the major work contractor, a question and answer session and an opportunity to network.
The industry briefng is being held from 12pm to 3pm on Friday 25 November at Pacifc Bay Resort in Coffs Harbour.
All businesses interested in working on the project are urged to register ahead of time to receive alerts and information.
To register, please contact Dusko Bajic on 02 9927 3100 or via email to enquiry@ icnnsw.gov.au
The Australian Government and NSW Government are jointly funding the $2.2 billion Coffs Harbour bypass on an 80:20 basis.
More information is available at: pacifchighway.nsw.gov. au/coffsharbourbypass
Work to raise a 350 metre section of Lismore Bangalow Road by up to 1.5 metres will start by the end of the month to make it more resilient to future foods.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is providing $2.4 million through the Flood Mitigation Program to improve safety and food impacts.
“We know it is critical to keep road networks open during emergencies, which is why we are building more resilience against natural disasters into our networks,” Mr Farraway said.
“This can be done by increasing the height of roads, improving drainage or, in the case of bushfres, managing vegetation on road corridors.
“The upgraded section is about six kilometres west of Bangalow and is a valuable link between Lismore, the coast and the Pacifc Highway.
“The project will ensure this vital corridor is more resilient against mother
nature and drive down disruptions to motorists.
“No matter where I have been around the state, I’ve heard loud and clear we need to build back damaged road networks better than they were before.
“That is why I recently opened applications for the new $312.5 million Betterment package for councils in northern NSW. This is the frst natural disaster funding of its kind that allows state and local governments to better build back their damaged road infrastructuresomething I want to see implemented right across the state.”
Work starting on Monday, 14 November will be carried out from 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and 8am to 5pm on Saturdays.
It is expected to be complete by June 2023, weather and site conditions permitting.
Single lane, alternating traffc fow arrangements will be in place during work hours, and small sections of road pavement will be unsealed during construction.
Now in its 27th year, National Recycling Week (7 to 13 November) provides an important opportunity to improve recycling knowledge, develop better recy-cling habits and build greater trust in the recycling process.
It’s simple, everyday actions like recycling, which help to protect the Tweed’s internationally signifcant environment for future generations.
this is just not true – it is being recycled. Your items are being turned into different and new products such as plastic in-dustrial pallets, geo-matting for embankments, piping, paper, cardboard, new glass jars, bottles and more.”
To see how the Tweed’s recycling material is processed, Council has produced a video demonstrating the
than just the usual paper, card-board, glass, hard plastics, and steel and aluminium cans that belong in our yel-low-lid recycling bins due to the Australasian Recycling Label Program.”
The Australasian Recycling Label Program has made the process of identifying what can be recycled easier. Keep an eye out for the instruction labels on common household
bottles.
• Household and car batteries, paints, oils, gas bottles and fuoro globes and tubes and smoke detectors are accepted for free at the Community Recycling Centre (CRC) at Stotts Creek Resource Recovery Centre.
• Various takeback schemes through Terracycle.com are now in place for a variety of beauty, self-care and dental products.
Council’s Resource Recovery Education Offcer Dominique Pomeroy said Na-tional Recycling Week provided a great opportunity for us all to consider our recycling habits.
“It’s important for us to think about how we can send less to landfll, reuse items and choose products with recycled content to ensure our recycled products are valuable,” Ms Pomeroy said.
“We often hear people say: ‘Why worry what you put in the recycling bin any-way, it just goes to landfll’. However,
process at our Chinderah recycling facility.
As part of the week’s activities, Council together with our partner North East Waste, is encouraging residents to continue their efforts to recycle right, and to think beyond their kerbside bins.
“As a region, the Northern Rivers is tracking well above the state average, with a 59% recovery rate from our kerbside recycling and organics bins,” said Linda Tohver, Education Coordinator at North East Waste.
“It’s also becoming easier to recycle more
items that show which bin each component of the pack-aging can go into as well as where recycling can occur in-store.
The Waste Wizard on Council’s website can also help residents determine ‘what goes where’.
Top tips for recycling beyond your kerbside bin:
• Return and Earn – currently accepts drink containers such as cans, beer and mixer bottles, cartons, juice boxes and poppers. In 2023 this will ex-pand to include larger soft drink and juice bottles and wine
• For smaller quantities of problem waste, like household batteries and mobile phones, residents have access to the region’s network of free Community Recycling Stations, installed by Council and North East Waste. They are found at 3 locations across the Tweed including the Tweed Heads and Murwillumbah Civic and Cultural Centres and the Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre.
To fnd out more, vis-it newaste.org.au/crs or contact Council.
• Most household batteries can also be recycled at B-cycle drop off points available at participating retailers including Woolworths, Coles, Aldi, Bunnings and Battery World.
SUNDAY
Twenty years after Gina Riley (above right) and Jane Turner’s (above left) suburban-set parody premiered, the comedians return with this anniversary special. The co-writers and co-stars are back in ctional Fountain Lakes as mother and daughter duo Kath Day-Knight and her spoilt o spring Kim. Expect every character, including Magda Szubanski as Sharon, Glenn Robbins as Kel and Peter Rowsthorn as Brett, as well as a crowd of guests starring Kylie Minogue, Michael Buble, Eric Bana, Barry Humphries and even a former prime minister.
MONDAY FOLAU
A few years ago, footballer Israel Folau was all over the headlines thanks to his controversial social media posts concerning homosexuals and transgender people. The uproar resulted in his sacking from Rugby Australia for breaching its player code of conduct and his multimillion dollar contract was ripped up. Now, after the dust has settled, this incisive two-part documentary examines how the complexities of free speech and religious freedom collided, and what role the work place should have. This rst episode explores Folau’s upbringing in the devout Christian traditions of the ka community, as well as the repercussions of his father’s health scare.
Tonight’s premiere involves a tribute to Shane Warne. Prepare to laugh out loud and feel all nostalgic. 1811
6.00
7.30 Gardening Australia. Advice for the home gardener.
8.30 Frankly. Fran Kelly chats with some of the biggest names and brains in Australia and from around the globe.
9.10 All Creatures Great And Small. (PG) James has to settle old scores both on and o the playing eld when a familiar face returns to Darrowby.
9.55 Fisk. (Ml, R) Roz is pursued by a gentleman caller.
10.20 Troppo. (Mal, R) A PI searches for a missing tech pioneer.
11.25 ABC Late News. Detailed coverage of the day’s events.
11.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
We are still working our way through November, but a Christmas special from the joy- lled crew is here to imbue everyone with Christmas excitement and wonder. Expect festive puns and an array of garish knitted jumpers as host Hamish Blake (right) pulls out all the stops in this two-part special, kicking o tonight. The merry contestants are The Block’s Darren Palmer, former Wiggle Emma Watkins, Home and Away star Lincoln Lewis and cooking empress Poh Ling Yeow, who team up with past contestants to nd out who can create the most impressive LEGO Christmas build.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Fugitive At 17. (2012, Madv, R) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PG) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Tutankhamun: The Last Exhibition. (M) 9.05 Good With Wood. (Final, PG) In order to win the competition, the three remaining woodworkers must build a bar in just two days.
10.00 Raiders Of The Lost Art: China. (R) Takes a look at China’s Tang dynasty.
10.50 SBS World News Late.
11.20 Das Boot. (MA15+v, R)
12.20 The Sleepers. (Malv, R)
2.40 Atlanta. (Madls, R) 4.30 Food Safari. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am WorldWatch. 9.30
Shortland St. 11.00 The Movie Show. Noon
6.00 7News Local.
6.30 7News @ 6:30.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs and Charlie Albone continue their Alaskan cruise. Adam Dovile builds a budget-friendly coat rack. Karen Martini cooks calamari fritti with master mayonnaise. 8.30 MOVIE: Pretty Woman. (1990, Mls, R) In need of an escort for social events while visiting Los Angeles, a ruthless, workaholic businessman gives a prostitute a rst-hand look at the lives of the rich when he hires her to be his companion for a week. Richard Gere, Julia Roberts, Hector Elizondo. 11.05 To Be Advised.
1.00 Home Shopping.
7TWO
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Just For The Summer. (2020, PGa, R) 1.50 Garden Gurus Moments. (R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 Afternoon News.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current A air.
7.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo: Pygmy Hippo. (PGa) A pygmy hippo is pregnant.
8.30 MOVIE: Bridget Jones’s Diary. (2001, Mlsv, R) A British woman struggling with various romantic entanglements documents a year of her life in a diary. Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant.
10.30 MOVIE: Ghosts Of Girlfriends Past. (2009, Ms, R) Matthew McConaughey.
12.20 Reported Missing. (Ma, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Take Two. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.
7.30 The Living Room. (PG, R) Barry Du Bois shares tips for wall art. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. Graham Norton is joined by Bono, Taylor Swift, Eddie Redmayne and Alex Scott. 9.30 Just For Laughs Australia. (Mals, R) Stand-up comedy performances featuring Sam Taunton, Je Green and Skit Box. 10.00 Just For Laughs Uncut. (MA15+als, R) Hosted by Nikki Osborne.
6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Sarah Graham: Food Safari. 2.30 My Market Kitchen. 3.00 Barefoot Contessa. 3.30 From Scratch. 4.30 Asia Unplated. 5.00 Gourmet Farmer. 5.30 Hugh’s Three Hungry Boys. 6.00 Poh & Co. Best Bites. 6.30 Cook And The Chef. 7.00 The Cook Up. 7.30 Rick Stein’s Cornwall. 8.00 Cook Like An Italian With Silvia Colloca. 8.30 Travel, Cook, Repeat With Curtis Stone. 9.30 Come Dine With Me UK. 10.00 Bizarre Foods. 10.30 The Cook Up. 11.00 Late Programs.
12.55 The Young And
Gurus
Our
Roadshow. 3.40 MOVIE: Dentist On The Job. (1961, PG) 5.30 Murder, She Wrote. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Antiques Downunder. 8.00 Antiques Roadshow Detectives. 8.40 MOVIE: Tears Of The Sun. (2003, M) 11.10 Late Programs. BOLD (51) 9GEM (82)
6am Home Shopping. 8.00 Camper Deals. 8.30 Roads Less Travelled. 9.00 What’s Up Down Under. 9.30 Escape Fishing With ET. 10.00 MacGyver. Noon NCIS: Los Angeles. 1.00 NCIS: New Orleans. 2.00 Bull. 3.00 Bondi Rescue. 3.30 The Love Boat. 4.30 Star Trek: The Next Generation. 5.30 MacGyver. 7.30 NCIS. 8.30 NCIS: Los Angeles. 10.30 Evil. 11.30 Star Trek: Discovery. 12.40am Home Shopping. 2.10 The FBI Declassi ed. 3.05 ST: Next Gen. 4.00 MacGyver.
9LIFE (84)
SKY NEWS (53)
6am Morning Programs. 1pm The World According to Rowan Dean. 2.00 Afternoon Agenda. 3.00 Paul Murray Live. 4.00 Afternoon Agenda. 4.30 Business Now With Ross Greenwood. 5.00 The Kenny Report. 6.00 Peta Credlin. 7.00 Bernardi. 8.00 The Media Show. 8.30 The US Report. 9.00 Hardgrave. 10.00 NewsNight. 10.30 Piers Morgan Uncensored. 11.30 Late Programs.
OPTION 1: $1.95M OPTION 2: $2.5M
This substantial holding is situated on the outskirts of Grafton and warrants your attention if you are searching for highly productive country to breed or fatten cattle, coupled with the ability to grow forage or fodder crops; with the added lifestyle advantage of being less than an hour from the coast to dip your toes in the ocean.
Initially purchased as a 264 acre property (with approx 20 acres of this being floodfree), the owners cleverly recognised the benefits of adding more flood-free land on to the holding, and secured the neighbouring ‘School Lane Block’ which provides an additional 80 acres (approx) of high land. This provides a fantastic 344.5 acres of country with such a great balance, rarely made available in the Clarence Valley.
The property is being offered for sale with two options:
OPTION 1: The Main Block by itself (264 acres). Price: $1,950,000.
OPTION 2: The property as a whole, being The Main Block and School Lane Block combined (344.5 acres). Price: $2,500,000.
THE MAIN BLOCK: 264.8 acres / 107.17Ha. Homestead, 10 paddocks, steel cattle yards, machinery shed, old dairy shed + rear hay shed. Approx 20 acres flood free.
THE SCHOOL LANE BLOCK: 79.76 acres / 32.28Ha. Improvements are two paddocks, a holding paddock, two dams, steel/timber yards. Flood free land. Please phone JoJo Newby of Farrell McCrohon Stock & Station Agents on 0417 690 637 to discuss further.
FRIDAY 11 NOVEMBER
Agents yarded a total of 1,364 head at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange regular prime sale on Wednesday 9 November. Weaners made up the largest percentage of the young cattle with most of the yearlings being light weigh steers and heifers. Quality was very mixed with a few more light weight weaners steers and heifers through the sale this week. The market was easier with last week’s gain in prices being lost depending on weight and breed.
LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK WEEK ENDING 11/11/2022
Agents this week saw numbers increase across the board for all bovine and ovine sales. The pork and poultry numbers also saw an increase. The fne weather is letting the vendors get their stock to sales without the problems associated with the running water.
The cattle market was fully frm for the larger yarding and the only price falls were due to type and condition. The sheep and lamb vendors had a different scenario with the market falling cosiderably in a week.
Vealer steers averaged 602.5c/kg topping at 732.2c/ kg or $1439.71 to $2040.00
Vealer heifers averaged 553.4c/kg topping at 700.2c/ kg or $1349.95 to $1777.23
Feeder steers averaged 488.1c/kg topping at 608.2c/ kg or $2127.84 to $2539.83
Cow prices saw a slight drop this week averaging 353c/kg and reaching a top price of 422c/kg. Lighter heifer prices saw a drop with those up to 250kg averaging 567c/kg and topping their category at 814c/kg. Heavier heifers over 250kg were stronger averaging 453c/kg and reaching a top of 685c/kg.
Bull prices were easier this week with 20 head sold averaging 311c/kg and 668kg. Steer prices were cheaper with those up to 250kg averaging 645c/kg and reaching a top of 838c/kg. Heavier steers over 250kg averaged 484c/kg and topped their market at 694c/kg. A good number of bullocks sold on the day averaged 404c/kg and reached a top of 418c/kg.
Feeder heifers averaged 423.9c/kg topping at 530.2c/kg or $1559.79 to $2100.84
Yearling steers averaged 547.5c/kg topping at 646.2c/kg or $1933.32 to $2720.00
Yearling heifers averaged 501.2c/kg topping at 600c or $1641.24 to $1983.55
Steers averaged 417.8c/kg topping at 560c or $2211.92 to $3076.50
Heifers averaged 406.9c/kg topping at 469.2c/kg or $1917.84 to $2580.00
Cows averaged 321.5c/kg topping at 408.2c/kg or $1623.52 to $2812.00
Bulls averaged 374c/kg topping at 645.2c/kg or $1773.81 to $3805.89
Lambs topped at $205 to average $134.13 down $36/ head
Vealer prices were cheaper this week averaging 587c/kg and 216kg and reaching a top of 852c/kg.
Ray White Rural held a store sale at the NRLX on Friday 11 November with 1,301 head going under the hammer. Steers topped their category at 970c/ kg and averaged 606c/kg and 264kg whilst heifers reached a top of 840c/kg and averaged 633c/kg and 231kg. Cows reached a top price of $2,400 whilst Cows & Calves topped their market at $4,300.
George & Fuhrmann will hold a store sale this Friday 18 November with 1,500 head booked. Further bookings are welcome.
Hoggets topped at $148 to average $88.50 down $55/ head
Ewes topped at $140 to average $67.80 down $30/ head
Wethers topped at $125 to average $75.29 down $56/head
Rams topped at $110 to average $71.06 down $43/ head
Ram lambs topped at $151 to average $117.94 down $18/head
Ewe lambs topped at $162 to average $134.29 down $28/head
Sows sold from $200 to $400, Light Pork from $185 to $198, Baconers sold to $246, stores sold from $59 to $171
Hens & chicks sold to $40, Roosters sold to $20, Hens to $22.50, Guinea Fowl to $25, Quails to $12.50, Ducklings to $17.50
Agents today yarded one of its bigger yarding’s in recent weeks, as the sun allowed more access to presenting stock on the up. There was a good mix of both mutton and lambs on offer today. The market was down across all sectors, with the better , heavier end having less fall the light feed on types. Lambs topped at $205 to average $134.13($36down), hoggets topped at $148 to average $88.50($55down), ewes topped at $140 to average $67.80($30down), wethers topped at $125 to average $75.29($56down), rams topped at $110 to average $71.06($43down), lamb rams topped at $151 to average $117.94($18down), ewe lambs topped at $162 to average $134.29($44down).
Richard & Beatrice Mc Dougall sold 50kg Dorper lambs to Ashtons Butchery for $202
Martin Power sold Suffolk lambs 44.1kg to
HIGHLIGHTS MARKET REPORT 18TH OCTOBER 2022
There were 191 head yarded at Grafton Fat Cattle Sale 8th November 2022. A smaller yarding in Grafton this week, over-all there was a mixed yarding of both prime and restocker types on offer. The market for export cattle was frm with Bullocks to 409.2c/kg and heavy Cows to 390c/ kg. Although there wasn’t many on offer, Store Cows sold dearer, topping at 390.2c/kg. Young cattle saw mixed results which depended on the quality.
Sale Highlights include:
A/c Greg Moore sold a Charolais Cross Steers
DATE 7/11/2022
Numbers decreased this sale with a total yarding of 196 head. A mixed quality yarding saw prices meet a frm to slightly cheaper market. A small but quality yarding of steers sold to 550 cents, while the bullocks topped at 395.2 cents.
In the Cow section, heavy weight cows sold to 371.2 cents, while the medium weights reached 364.2 cents, light weight cows top ed at 250 cents. Heifers sold to 471.2 cents.
In the trade section weaner steers topped at 668.2 cents, while the heifer portion reached 654.2 cents, both returning to the paddock. A mixed yarding of Bulls sold to 336.2 cents.
Eversons for $182
Stanthorpe State High School sold Dorset sucker lambs 44.1kg to Eversons for $182, ewes to Eversons for $140
Neville Darr sold Xbred lambs 48.7kg to Thomas Foods for $150
Rory & Kathy Frost sold Dorper lambs 43.1kg to Shelley F/T for $170
Stephen & Fran Thompson sold Dorset lambs 52kg to Warwick Meats for $150, Xbred ewes to Eversons for $112, Dorset rams to restockers for $100, and Eversons for $80
Shelley F/T sold Xbred lambs off grain 54.6kg to Ashtons Butchery for $205
Mark Winning sold Dohne lambs 55kg to Thomas Foods for $145, 47kg to Eversons for $80, hoggets 55.2kg to Eversons for $85
446.2c/kg weighed 425kg - $1,896.35
A/c G Skinner sold an Angus Cross Cows 386.2c/kg weighed 520kg - $2,008.24 p/hd
A/c R & H Corrigan sold Angus Cross Cow 386.2c/ kg weighed 715kg - $2,761.33
A/c Pillar Valley Pastoral sold Brahman Cross Cows 389.2c/kg averaged 623.8kg - $2,427.64 p/hd
A/c Baryulgil Pastoral Co. sold Hereford Cows 385.2c/kg averaged 570kg - $2,195.64 p/hd
A/c Ken Tucker sold a Charolais Bull 365c/kg weighed 855kg - $3,120.75
LIGHT STRS. 650.0 AV. 540.4 STEERS 580.0 AV. 518.5 471.2 AV. 418.6 HFRS. 530.2 AV. 526.2 HEIFERS 550.0 AV. 506.5 HEAVY STRS. 668.2 AV. 663.5 (200 TO 280KG) 499.2 AV. 499.2 (280KG PLUS) HFRS. 654.2 AV. 594.7 (200 TO 280KG) 500.0 AV. 495.8 (280KG PLUS)
STEERS UP TO 400KG 550.0 AV. 550.0 STEERS 400-500KG 500.2 AV. 485.4 STEERS 500KG PLUS 359.2 AV. 348.
LIGHT 250.0 AV. 250.0 MEDIUM 364.2 AV. 336.6
Lawrence & Linda Springborg sold Dorper lambs 55kg to Gr Prime for $178, 60kg ewe hoggets to restockers for $148, ewes to restockers for $90
Sunnymount Farming P/L sold Dorper lambs 50kg to GR Prime for $170
Dugald & Vicki Marshall sold Xbred lambs 48.9kg to GR Prime for $181
Gradenfoe Past Co sold Merino lambs 50kg to Thomas Foods for $169, hoggets 49.4kg to Eversons for $85, 45kg shorn Merino lambs to GR Prime for $132, wethers to Thomas Foods for $100
Alum Rock Past Co sold Merino ewes to Eversons for $75 and $65
Will Bazley & Vanessa sold Suffolk sucker lambs 41.3kg to GR Prime for $139, 32.3kg to restockers for $101, ram lambs 48.1kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $151
A/c NJ Constructions Pty Ltd sold Angus Cross Steers 664.2c/kg weighed 235kg - $1,560.87
A/c PA & TM Waghorn sold Angus Cross Steers 670.2c/kg weighed 325kg - $1,574.97
A/c G Skinner sold Angus Cross Steers 810.2c/kg averaged 127.5kg - $1,033.01 p/hd
A/c KR & RM Payne sold an Angus Cross Steers 600.2c/kg weighed 265kg - $1,590.53
A/c M Fifeld & P Smith sold a Charolais Cross Steer 702.2c/kg weighed 210kg - $1,474.62
A/c L Towns sold Devon Cows & Calves - $2,300.00 p/unit
HEAVY 371.2 AV. 364.2 BULLS 600KG+ 336.2 AV. 313.2 BULLOCKS 540KG + 395.2 AV. 392.6
TOP PRICES
BULLOCKS: RA & L PATERSON $ 3115.49
STEERS: BRIANNA NICHOL $ 2312.84 COWS: NW & SG GROGAN $ 2386.80 HEIFERS: ED BURKE $ 2337.00 YEARLINGS: A J & JA CHRISTOPHERSON $ 2151.88 VEALERS: HUGH ARTHUR $ 1921.92 BULLS: NW & SG GROGAN $ 2988.09
For the week ending 9 November 2022, a high-pressure system in the south-east brought relatively dry conditions to much of Australia, with rainfall totals of less than 10 milli-metres observed in most regions. Weekly rainfall totals exceeding 15 millimetres were observed in isolated parts of eastern Victoria, central and south-eastern New South Wales, southern parts of Western Australia, southwest South Australia, as well as north-ern parts of Western Australia, the Northern Territory, and Queensland.
· La Niña continues in the tropical Pacifc, with atmospheric and oceanic indicators re-fecting a mature La Niña event. The negative IOD event in the tropical Indian Ocean that has persisted since mid-June is currently declining
and is expected to end in early December. The Southern Annular Mode is currently positive and is likely to remain pos-itive into early summer. A MaddenJulian Oscillation of moderate strength is currently active over the western Pacifc Ocean and is expected to move eastwards and weaken over the coming days.
· The rainfall outlook for December 2022 to February
2023 suggests there is a greater than 60% chance of exceeding median rainfall across most of Victoria, New South Wales, eastern Queensland, Tasmania, and eastern parts of South Australia. However, below median rainfall is likely for much of Western Australia and the northern tip of the Northern Territory between December to February.
· The temperature outlook for December 2022 to February 2023 indicates that maxi-mum temperatures across most of Australia are likely to be close to average, with slight-ly lower than average maximum temperatures across eastern New South Wales. Minimum temperatures are expected to be slightly above average for part of north-east Tasmania, but close to average for the
rest of Australia.
· Over the 8-days to 17 November 2022, a low-pressure system building over central Australia and moving south-east, is forecast to bring moderate rainfall to much of east-ern and northern Australia. Meanwhile, a highpressure system over the southern Indian Ocean is forecast to bring little to no rainfall to much of Western Australia, and western parts of South
Australia.
· Water storage levels in the MurrayDarling Basin (MDB) decreased between 2 Novem-ber 2022 and 9 November 2022 by 22 gigalitres (GL). Current volume of water held in storage is 24 147 GL which represents 96 per cent of total capacity. This is 8 percent or 1827 GL more than at the same time last year.
· Allocation prices in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke decreased from $36 per ML on 28 October to $34 per ML on 4 November 2022. Prices are lower in the Goulburn-Broken, Murrumbidgee and regions above the Barmah choke due to the bind-ing of the Goulburn intervalley trade limit, Murrumbidgee export limit and Barmah choke trade constraint.
A range of projects aimed at reducing the risk posed by future disasters will share in almost $13 million from the Australian and New South Wales governments.
The joint funding is being provided to educational institutions, Government agencies and not-for-proft organisations through the State Risk Reduction stream of the Disaster Risk Reduction Fund (DRRF) to deliver projects that better protect communities against future natural disasters, including research programs, useable tools like apps and awareness campaigns.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said the funding is being allocated to projects that have a State-wide impact.
“Investing in ways that reduce the severity and impact of natural disasters is a high priority. We stand ready to work with all levels of government, community members and
organisations to achieve this,” Minister Watt said.
“Over the past three years New South Wales has copped disaster after disaster which have left communities reeling. Recovery is ongoing and we
continue to support those efforts, but it is equally important to make sure we are investing in risk reduction projects for future disasters.”
New South Wales Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience
and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the State Risk Reduction stream of the DRRF targets projects which will better protect communities.
“The $13 million will go towards helping
communities be better prepared for when future disasters inevitably strike,” Ms Cooke said.
“The projects receiving funding cover a range of hazards including foods, fres, heatwaves and storms, with initiatives
ranging from capability building and community engagement to new data systems and technology.”
The DRRF offers $52 million in total to build resilience and help reduce, mitigate and manage the risks of future disasters.
Some of the successful funding recipients include the Bushfre Building Council of Australia for the creation of a building assessor app and training program to improve the disaster resilience and energy effciency of homes, and the Department of Planning and Environment to undertake food hazard projects under plausible climate change scenarios.
For a list of recipients of the frst round of funding, visit: www.nsw. gov.au/resiliencensw/ disaster-risk-reductionfund.
Remembering those early days at “Grandchester”
South Gundurimba, comes very easy for Michael McMahon. This year marks 60 years of trading.
Michael was born 18th December 1944 to parents Leo and Sue McMahon.
As a young boy growing up on the family farm at South Gundurimba, he remembers helping with the family chores before walking 2 miles (3 .5 kms) out from their home to catch the bus to South Lismore with his brother Terry and sisters Margaret, Rosemary, and Leonie.
In those early days, Michael’s parents operated a dairy farm, where the cream had to be taken down the hill by horse and slide and loaded on to a cream truck driven by Bob Clarke. The cream would be picked up on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday and taken through to the factory in Lismore. When the empty cans were delivered back to the farm, there would be bread or butter contained in them or other essential items needed on the farm.
Michael’s Grandfather, Richard McMahon was interested in horse breeding which he meticulously managed successfully for many years. He was well known for blood horses “Reprieve”, “Uproarious”, “Fernhill”, “Sportsman” and many others including
($6) a day. In 1962 Michael started trading in cattle at the age of 18 years.
One day at the Lismore Saleyards, Fraser Walker from Gilbert Walker and Co approached Michael
Smith, Alex Hermann, Harry Stone, Earle Weir, Jimmy Botterill, Ron Graham, Andersons, F. J. Walker, HET Harry Ellis Trading, Anco, Bindaree Beef and John McDonald “JR”. This man “JR” was
the well-known trotter “Salvator”.
From an early age Michael was always interested in horses. This was encouraged by his
father Leo who was a Committee Member of the North Coast National during the 1940’s and 1950’s. He remembers the time when about 10 years old and winning “Good Hands” that is Champion Rider today, at the North Coast National in 1954. One day, Michael asked to have a day off so he could ride “Brownie” to the farrier Charlie Schreiber,
memorable wins was in 1955 at the Casino Bushmans Carnival when he won the Earl Fahey
in South Lismore to be shod. The Nun who was his teacher, remarked “Shame the farrier is not putting shoes on your feet!” One of Michael’s
Trophy for the Junior Draft on “Lookout” owned by Joe McNamara. He was victorious again in 1958 in the same event on a horse called “Jimmy”.
Another popular horse was “Rex”.
After school days, Michael would go droving for Herb Cawley, his brother Terry, father Leo and Harry Stone. The deal with Harry Stone was that the cattle had to be delivered from South Gundurimba to the Airport paddock in South Lismore.
In 1968 Michael married Dianne Templeman. Their children, Simon and Maryanne, followed on with the traditions of the show ring and won countless Champion Hacks, Pony and Rider classes
Royals.
Michael was a “Red Coat” at the North Coast National for 28 years. A Red Coat is a Steward at the show that escorts the horses to safety from on and off the ring. Other men that were with him at the time were George Gray, Scott Gray, Ron Weir, and Ron Maher. The Ring Stewards were: Noel Rippon, George Parker and Ron Weir. Nothing Michael likes better is to saddle his horse and ride around the property checking his cattle.
Following on from his droving jobs, he started work at the pig and calf sale yards for Ron Barnes on Monday and Wednesday at £2/10/ shillings ($5) and cattle sale on Thursdays at £3
and asked him to sell the calves. A week later he was asked to sell the cows on a Thursday. After work Fraser Walker took Michael to the Lismore Police Station where he obtained his auctioneering licence. This licence he still has today. Michael loved selling but loved
a good friend to Michael. Markets in 1960 were reasonably stable, then instability in the 70’s with the economic crash, saw cattle prices plummet. Fat cows down to 8 cents a kilo, bullocks to 12 cents, store cows down $1 and fat cows $25.
trading. At that time Fraser Walker had a stroke and the business changed hands, so Michael went trading.
Michael has seen many dramatic changes over the years with the markets. For example: paying $16 to $18 and selling them for $24 to $25 back in the 60’s. Men he remembers, also businesses around the saleyards include: Graeme
This year in 2022 is Michael’s 60th year of trading and he wouldn’t want it any other way.
Congratulation’s Michael for your dedicated work with the cattle industry. May you enjoy many more years. Michael is still attending sales each week at Casino and will be back in Lismore when the saleyards start up again.
NORCO PRIMEX 2022, the largest coastal based feld days, offcially opens at 1.30pm this Friday November 11 at the Richmond Valley Events Centre on Cassino Drive off the Bruxner Highway at Casino.
Ahead of the offcial opening, Thursday saw a record crowd of an estimated 7,000 arrive keen to see the latest in agribusiness equipment and know-how in action and on display.
‘It’s been eighteen months since the last Primex and after the last couple of years we’ve had with COVID and fooding, the crowd is just so happy to be back celebrating and supporting those enterprises that are the backbone of our region,’ Primex Field Days Director Bruce Wright said.
Amongst displays from 370 local, national and international exhibitors and more than a thousand suppliers there is an estimated $100 million dollars worth of the latest machinery and products on display and being put through its paces.
One equipment display, by Casino’s own Days Machinery is worth more than $5 million alone.
For the frst time at
Primex much of the hardware on display will be available for almost immediate delivery.
‘There’s a lot of opportunity to really get your businesses going with the continued tax incentives and Primex has always been a great place to talk a deal and get a great outcome,’ Mr Wright said.
Mr Wright, along
with NSW Minister for Agriculture Dougald Saunders, Norco CEO Michael Hampson and Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow will be on hand to kick things off at Friday’s launch at the Nourish Pavilion.
This year’s event is also big on the food experience with chef, restaurateur and proud
Bundjalung woman of the Widjabul Wia-bul clan, Mindy Woods, demonstrating how to whip up a seafood poke bowl at 1pm in the Nourish Pavilion, just prior to the offcial opening.
Norco Primex attendees will recognise Mindy as a Masterchef fnalist and the creative force behind Karkalla
Restaurant in Byron Bay. She will be presenting a range of inspirational cooking demonstrations on Friday.
Being Remembrance Day Norco Primex 2022 will also pause for one minute’s silence at 11am on Friday to commemorate those men and women who fought and died for Australia.
‘It’s a privilege to stop and remember where we have come from and the sacrifces that have been made on all our behalf,’ Mr Wright said.
On Saturday, attendees can help decide Australia’s best tasting tap water when Water Industry Operators Association of Australia (WIOA) and Richmond Valley Council host the Ixom 2022 Best Tasting Tap Water in Australia competition.
Water treatment plants
from every state have submitted samples with the winner, announced on Saturday, going on to represent Australia at the Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting Competition in West Virginia, USA, next year.
Education and the next generation of rural agri-business leaders is also a major focus with the Primary Industry Education Foundation having a strong presence at this year’s event.
‘We have everyone from the Department of Education through to our local Southern Cross University here highlighting the opportunities available in agricultural studies right through to agricultural careers,’ Mr Wright said.
‘You don’t have to be a ffth-generation farmer to build yourself an agribusiness career and stay in the regions we all love.’
The introduction of frst-ever penalties for unfair contract terms has been welcomed by the ACCC. The penalties are for businesses that include unfair contract terms in their standard form contracts with consumers and small businesses.
Previously, specifc terms of a contract could be declared unfair and therefore void by a Court, but they were not prohibited, and the Court could not impose any penalties on businesses that included them in standard form contracts.
Businesses have 12 months to review and update their standard form contracts before the penalties apply.
Our perishable agricultural goods inquiry found potential unfair contract terms were often in producer supply agreements, which were presented to growers on a ‘take it or leave it’ basis.
These contract terms frequently shifted
signifcant uncertainty and risk onto growers.
The changes will also expand coverage to more small business contracts. The protections will apply to contracts with small businesses which employ fewer than 100 persons or have an annual turnover of less than $10 million and will apply irrespective of the value of the contract. The changes also clarify other aspects of the laws, such as more clearly defning ‘standard form contracts.
Separately, the changes also include signifcant increases in maximum penalties for breaches of certain provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act including the Australian Consumer Law. These maximum penalties apply to a range of offences and civil penalty provisions under the ACL, and they also apply to most civil and criminal offences under competition law.
Berries Australia and the Australian Blueberry Growers Association (ABGA) both elected new leaders at their October AGMs.
Anthony Poiner of SmartBerries has taken over as the Chair of Berries Australia from berry stalwart Peter McPherson and Andrew Bell from Mountain Blue has taken over from Jonathan Shaw of Mt Nimmel blueberry farm as the ABGA president.
Anthony has more than twelve years in the berry business and has been a key driver of blueberry production in Queensland with the establishment of a major site in Mundubbera. SmartBerries also grow rubus and Anthony’s
overall knowledge of the category along with his experience as an importer/exporter will stand the industry in good stead.
Andrew Bell has been involved in the blueberry industry his entire life and has worked alongside his father Ridley Bell in the breeding, production and marketing of premium blueberries under the Mountain Blue brand. Andrew’s deep understanding of all facets of the blueberry industry will ensure that the ABGA remains an effective industry body for growers of all sizes.
The industry would like to give acknowledge the enormous contribution of both Jonathan Shaw
and Peter McPherson to the Australian berry industry. Both were instrumental in the establishment of Berries Australia.
Peter was the inaugural Chair of Berries Australia, which was a ftting role for a man who has been a giant in the sector for more than 40 years. Peter’s deep understanding of the industry and his extraordinary international connections have been invaluable to the establishment of
Berries Australia.
Jonathan’s legal expertise and focus on governance enhanced the professionalism of both the ABGA and Berries Australia and his focused, outcomes driven approach will be missed.
The industry is fortunate to have leaders of such calibre take on these voluntary roles and there is no doubt that Anthony and Andrew will continue in this tradition.
Southern Cross University and the Environmental Analysis Laboratory (EAL) are inviting farmers and land managers across the country to participate in a Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry incentivised soil sampling and analysis program.
Under the pilot Soil Monitoring Incentives Program (SMIP), the soil analysis data can assist farmers to make informed decisions on land management practices, while also being available to others for use through the Australian National Soil Information System (ANSIS).
Farmers and land managers can receive $275 per sampling site, capped at $10,000 per ABN, towards the cost of soil sampling and analysis and sharing the data through ANSIS. They can also receive assistance from Commonwealth-funded soil extension offcers to interpret their soil test results.
EAL’s Senior Manager of Laboratory Operations, Graham Lancaster, said participating in the soil sampling initiative enables farmers to benchmark the carbon or organic matter of their farm soil and can even contribute to Emissions Reduction Fund projects.
Southern Cross’ SMIP Project Offcer, Debbe Allen, said: “It’s really important we get farmers from across the country involved, and lots of
them, so that in future those making policy decisions around soils will have relevant data for informed decisions.
“Currently, there is not enough quality data to make confdent recommendations, and compared with the rest of the world, we are decades behind with this.
“It might cost farmers a little more money, but it might also save them signifcantly on ameliorants, if they know what nutrients
their pastures and crops can already access below the top 10cm layer.”
Southern Cross University is also looking for qualifed agronomists across the country with soil sampling experience to come on board to assist with delivering this program.
For more information on the program visit https://www.scu.edu. au/pilot-soils-program/, email soiltest@scu. edu.au or phone 02
6620 3489. Additional information on the program can be found in Frequently Asked Questions.
The program ends on 30 June 2023. This project is supported by funding through the Australian Government National Soil Strategy (Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry).
A bill that will save country roads and help the state’s farmers save money has been passed by Parliament. NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said farmers were poised to save up to $2.8 billion over the next 30 years thanks to a bill introduced by Independent MP Greg Piper, which would effectively “unshackle” the Port of Newcastle from an earlier deal struck by the Baird Government.
“We have been supportive of plans to better utilise the Port of Newcastle, and release it from the artifcial barriers that are holding back its potential,” Mr Martin said.
“Farmers in the north west have had their produce trucked past Newcastle to Port Botany, which is wildly ineffcient and results not only in extra wear and tear on our country roads, it puts more strain on an alreadycongested Sydney road network.
“Giving growers the opportunity to send more containerised produce through the Port of Newcastle in a more effcient manner would save farmers between $16 and $22 per tonne, or up to $2.8 billion over the next 30 years, allowing them to reinvest in their businesses and drive even more economic activity in the regions.”
In 2021, the Port of Newcastle exported 3 million tonnes bulk
wheat – a 900 per cent year on year growth – and had fertiliser imports grow 69 per cent year on year. Meanwhile, growers were still trying to export their produce from previous years with on-farm storages packed to the brim. Mr Martin, a grain farmer from the Liverpool Plains, said effcient access to markets was critical for farmers, but high port charges, rail constraints and port bottlenecks were limiting future growth opportunities.
“The fact that we’ve got produce being driven by road into the biggest city in the country is a clear sign we’ve got some big issues with our rail freight system,” Mr Martin said.
“This bill opens the way to give the Port of Newcastle the opportunity to expand and grow and meet its potential – something that will save farmers money, grow the state economy, reduce strain on our roads, reduce truck emissions, and help the Hunter Valley in its eventual industrial transition away from coal mining.
“Improving the regional freight networks that drive so much economic activity is one of our key priorities, and I thank the Parliament for voting to remove one of the roadblocks to future success.”
A Minns Labor Government will strengthen and secure the resilience of our Agriculture industry, by legislating and funding an Independent Biosecurity Commission, that will be headed by a new Biosecurity Commissioner who will provide independent advice and report to Parliament on an annual basis.
Besides the existential threat of climate change - biosecurity, weeds and pests present the most signifcant threat to the environment and a productive primary industries sector. In 2014 it was conservatively estimated that the cost to NSW agriculture from weeds is approximately $1.8 billion annually.
NSW needs a stronger voice to tackle the threat of biosecurity. The Government’s approach has been piecemeal, lacks transparency and coordination, and is disproportionate to the economic and environmental threat posed by invasive species.
The frst task of this Commission will be to work with the Natural Resource Commission to develop a clear picture of the extent of invasive species and the damage they are doing to both the environment and the agricultural industry, so appropriate action can be taken to better protect NSW farmers.
NSW Labor will also: • Direct $10 million to a good neighbour program to tackle weed and
pest infestations on government land neighbours private property.
• Re-engage a Dairy and Fresh Food Advocate to look at supply chains, address food security issues and be a voice for farmers.
A Minns Labor Government will also ensure a strong and independent NSW Agriculture Commissioner to provide more protection for our best farmland and ensure food security and a more sustainable and productive agriculture industry.
The current model lacks independence, and the teeth and resources to get the job done.
This commission will report back to NSW parliament and be tasked with addressing critical issues in the bush such as identifying and protecting state signifcant land and renewable energy projects.
Chris Minns, NSW Labor Leader said:
A strong agriculture sector underpins the success of our rural and regional communities – and our rural and regional communities underpin the success of our economy and our state.
“Today is an affrmation that a Minns Labor Government will work closely with NSW Farmers and more broadly the NSW food and agribusiness industry to make the most of the agricultural opportunities available to NSW.
“Biosecurity is the responsibility of everyone, and failures affect everyone.
“Regional NSW has had a diffcult four years, moving from the grip of the worst drought in 100 years into a series of historic food events. This in conjunction with the ongoing mice plague, biosecurity incursions such as Varroa mite and the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 have had mammoth economic impacts on the bush.
“NSW Labor is
committed to supporting regional NSW and we will have more to say on this ahead of the 2023 election.
Mick Veitch, Shadow Minister for Regional NSW, Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Shadow Minister for Western NSW said:
“Many of the policies we are announcing are ones which should already be in place, however the NSW Government have increasingly taken our regional communities for granted and not put in the safeguards necessary for their livelihoods.
“Today NSW Labor has demonstrated our commitment to making the bush more resilient and to working hand in hand with our regional communities.
“These announcements are a frst step in what will be an ongoing conversation with an industry foundational to our states economic health.
On the eve of Primex, Labor Candidate for Clarence Leon Ankersmit said he is looking forward to hosting Mick Veitch in Casino on Friday.
“Come and talk to us at Primex. NSW Labor is focused on doing the job of government on behalf of farmers and agricultural enterprise. Biosecurity and food security are matters that require coordination and resourcing. NSW Labor is committed to working with the Agricultural sector to reduce these threats and improve productivity.
Applications are now open for the National Agriculture Traceability Regulatory Technology (RegTech) Research and Insights grant round.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said the new $6 million RegTech Research and Insights grant round would contribute to enhancing agricultural traceability and supporting the growth of the agricultural sector.
“These grants are vital to fnd ways to make traceability compliance easier for farmers and simpler for businesses to ensure better market access,” Minister Watt said.
“Increasingly, domestic and international consumers want to know that the products they are buying are authentic, clean, green and produced ethically.
“Australia has a great story to tell the world and enhancing traceability across agricultural supply chains is key to providing our producers the value-added benefts they deserve.
“Effective agricultural traceability mechanisms make it easier to provide evidence of provenance, sustainability and other desirable qualities, and remain up-to-date with changing international import requirements.”
Minister Watt said these new grants were part of a wider focus on animal traceability, which included the recent budget announcement of $46 million to improve livestock traceability.
“We are working with industry and other stakeholders to develop a National Agricultural Traceability Strategy 2023-33 and these grants are an investment towards innovative initiatives that will increase effciencies and bring greater benefts across the supply chain.
“Successful projects will strengthen partnerships to provide ongoing benefts for traceability and Australian agriculture production and export.”
The grants are available to industry or research applicants who meet 1 or more of the following outcomes:
• investigation of how RegTech can assist in streamlining agricultural compliance obligations
• feasibility assessments of traceability RegTech systems
• identifcation and assessment of standardisable features of traceability RegTech applications, devices and platforms that can be applied across agricultural industries, supply chains and commodities to increase value and expand export market access.
Industry and research organisations will be able to apply for up to $500,000 for projects lasting up to 2 years from April 2023 to June 2025.
Applications close on Wednesday 14 December 2022.
For more information and to apply, visit www. communitygrants.gov. au/grants.
The Albanese Government has reaffrmed its ongoing support for the live export cattle industry ahead of the LIVEXchange Conference in Darwin, Australia’s major event for the livestock export industry.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Murray Watt said Australia’s live cattle trade was a major contributor to our national economy.
“Australia’s live cattle export trade contributes more than $1 billion to our national economy each year and employs 1,527 people directly with more than 80 per cent of these jobs in Northern Australia,” Minister Watt said.
“In line with the LIVEXchange conference theme, we are focusing on strengthening our markets and developing shared values to produce quality meat.
“We are a government that works with industry and consults widely.
“That’s what we did with Australia’s frst ever
National Lumpy Skin Disease Action Plan, which we launched in Darwin last month, in partnership with cattle and live export groups, to help protect our cattle and buffalo industries.
“It also built the foundation for our new Northern Australia Biosecurity Coordination Network to help manage the threat of LSD and
drought resilience and sustainable agricultural practices.
“I know there have been some challenges for the industry this year with foot and mouth disease detected in Indonesia, our biggest market for live cattle exports, which made some Indonesian lot feeders more risk averse than before.
delivering vaccines, training and technical expertise.
“We will continue to work with the Australian cattle industry and our trading partners to ensure the export regulations meet the high standards of animal welfare expected by the Australian community.”
Fast facts:
• This year’s LIVEXchange Conference theme is ‘From here to there together: strengthening our foundations and creating connections’.
• Australia is a major exporter of live cattle, having the second-largest share of the global market at 14 per cent in 2020.
foot and mouth disease.”
Minister Watt said last month’s Budget shows that the Albanese Government is focussed on investing to protect and grow our vital agricultural industries.
“That’s being done through key investments in our biosecurity system, livestock traceability, trade,
“But I’m pleased to see those trade numbers starting to bounce back in August and September.
“It’s crucial for Australia’s export success for us to be loud and proud about being FMD and LSD-free.
“And we are of course supporting Indonesia to manage their outbreaks,
• In 2021-22, Australia exported more than 617,000 head of cattle with an approximate value to the Australian economy of $1 billion.
• More than three-quarters of live cattle are exported to South-East Asia, including Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Brunei.
Australia has endorsed the Glasgow Breakthrough Agenda on Agriculture (GBAA) at COP27.
The endorsement will now facilitate constructive engagement with the GBAA’s goal to make ‘climate-resilient, sustainable agriculture the most attractive and widely adopted option by farmers everywhere by 2030’.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Murray Watt, said the global trade of food and fbre was increasingly being shaped by sustainable production standards.
“The endorsement of this goal is a timely message to the international community of our government’s priorities,” Minister Watt said.
“We are working with our agricultural, fsheries and forestry sectors to bring a new focus to managing climate change and realising the opportunities within a broader context of sustainability.
“Australia’s farm and commodity groups already have already made great ground to enhance their sustainable methods.
“Support for this UK agenda will further build Australia’s international reputation as a nation committed to sustainable agriculture production and investment in climateresilient agriculture production.
“We will use our alliance with the GBAA to showcase Australia’s investments and experiences to ensure the government’s
ambition catches up to industry.
“This will include the Australian Government’s support for our neighbours in the Indo-Pacifc Region, where support for smallholding producers is so important for food security and livelihoods.”
Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, said the Australian Government has a legislated target to reach net zero emissions by 2050 in line with the Paris Agreement.
“Our farmers are on the front line of climate change,” Minister Bowen said.
“Participation in the GBAA is just another step forward to improve collaboration and share the innovation of Australia’s agriculture sector.
“Australia’s participation in global initiatives, such as the Global Research Alliance (GRA) on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases and Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate, demonstrates our commitment to the GBAA objective.
“It comes off the back of our recent announcement to sign up to the Global Methane Pledge, a worldwide pledge to reduce methane emissions by 30% before 2030.”
The broader aim of the Glasgow Agenda is to accelerate clean technology transitions in each sector through strengthened international collaboration, cooperation and coordination.
NSW Irrigators’ Council (NSWIC) welcomes this week’s announcement of ex-tended deadlines for food-affected water users to upgrade metering equip-ment in coastal valleys and the southern Murray-Darling Basin.
“The extension is necessary given the diffcult times facing communities af-fected by foods on top of fres and recent climate extremes,” said NSWIC CEO, Claire Miller.
“We were hearing from many farmers feeling anxious as deadlines loomed, who wanted to do the right thing, but need to prioritise their health, safety and disaster recovery effort.”
“For farmers with homes, livestock, pumps and produce washed away by foods, having to replace existing water meters with a new, expensive models right now would’ve rubbed salt in a very raw wound.”
NSW’s non-urban water metering policy requires farmers to upgrade meters to comply with the AS4747 standard, the highest in the world; the new meters must be installed by a duly qualifed person, with tamperproofng to ensure security.
The original 1 December 2022 deadline for the southern MurrayDarling Basin valleys
has been extended by six months to 1 June 2023, while the 1 Decem-ber 2023 deadline for coastal NSW has been extended 12 months to 1 December 2024.
“To be clear, irrigators already have meters as is required by law– this policy is about upgrading to comply with a new standard,” Ms Miller said.
The announcement does not change the deadlines for the state’s largest irri-gators, or irrigators in the northern Basin valleys, where the new requirements are already in place.
“The Minister has listened to farmers in the Lismore area, led by the Rich-mond-Wilsons
Ms Miller said.
“Whilst the timeframes are being extended on the coast and in southern Basin valleys, we do encourage water users to get started as soon as they are able, given the range of complications and unexpected delays experienced by irrigators in other regions.
“The irrigation sector takes metering and compliance very seriously. Only the most exceptional of circumstances – as we are now seeing –warrants our support for extensions.”
NSW Farmers CEO Pete Arkle has criticised environmental politics holding up rebuilding efforts across the state, saying we need less talk, more action.
At present, landholders seeking to harvest timber on their properties need to go through a duplicated approvals process at a state and local government level, reducing supply of hardwoods, delaying rebuilding efforts, and driving construction costs higher when people can least afford it.
In response, NSW Agriculture Minister Dugald Saunders introduced legislation to enact changes to the Private Native Forestry Code, which would see dual consent requirements dropped and approval periods extended from 15 to 30 years.
Local Government NSW slammed the move, saying councils were being sidelined, but NSW Farmers CEO Pete Arkle said LGNSW had admitted councils were under “unprecedented fnancial pressures” and should welcome plans to ease the regulatory burden.
“We have roads across the state that can’t be fxed fast enough, a planning system that’s clogged up for all these rebuilding efforts, and councils that are clearly under the pump,” Mr Arkle said.
“That’s why it’s so crazy that some of these councils – particularly those dominated by environmental politics – are desperate to cling to control of timber approvals.
“The new Private Native Forestry Code includes
boosted environmental protections and these projects will still be subject to strict review, it just won’t be done at a council level.”
Mr Arkle said the independent Natural Resources Commission described the new Private Native Forestry Codes as a signifcant improvement over the previous codes, with a number of additional environmental protections relating to koalas, unmapped streams and harvesting intensity limits.
The proposed legislation would not change the Environment Protection Authority’s enforcement function, existing State Environmental Planning Policies, or any existing prohibitions for forestry.
“It’s just crazy that our own heavily regulated timber industry is
shedding jobs while the state spends $2 billion a year on importing timber from some fundamentally unregulated overseas forests to rebuild homes after natural disasters,” Mr Arkle said.
“We had a housing affordability problem before this year’s foods, and now communities are feeling even more pressure with rising infation, high material costs and a lack of tradies to get the job done.
“Cutting some of this senseless red tape is one common-sense way the government can improve timber supply, and in turn ease the burden on local councils whose staff already have their hands full with development applications and road repairs.”
Businesses will now be able to register for the NSW Seniors Card program faster and more effciently online, thanks to the new digital registration process offcially going live from today.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said the new and improved digital registration process will save businesses time and make it easier for them to update their discounts and business details.
An army of cyber security, cloud computing and artifcial intelligence experts will be trained at the State’s frst revolutionary Institute of Applied Technology (IAT) with the NSW Government today unveiling of a suite of 19 new digitalfocused courses.
The new facility, located at Meadowbank, is a partnership between TAFE NSW, Microsoft, the University of Technology Sydney and Macquarie University, and will focus on turbocharging the take-up of digital skills to strengthen our State’s workforce.
Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said the new IAT, which opens in February next year, is now taking enrolments in courses spanning artifcial intelligence, cyber security, cloud computing, machine learning and data analytics.
“These courses have been developed handin-glove with industry to meet current and emerging skill needs,” Mr Henskens said.
“At a time when cyberattacks are on the rise, this training will allow people to quickly build the skills we need for a strong and safe digital economy.
“With Australia needing another 17,000 cyber professionals by 2026, now is the time for people to enroll in courses at our new IAT and get the skills they need for
jobs in cyber security, digital forensics, data engineering, machine learning, and more.”
To meet this increasing industry demand, the IAT will offer a combination of fexible microskills and microcredentials to cater for new learners as well as current industry workers who require upskilling to maintain pace with the rapidly evolving sector.
Member for Ryde and Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said learners can stack multiple microcredentials to create a nationally recognised certifcation, such as a diploma, or advanced diploma, or count towards a degree with participating education partners.
“Ryde is being transformed into an education and employment powerhouse, and this revolutionary new training facility will help attract, retain and upskill local workers, which is a fantastic win for our community,” Mr Dominello said.
In addition to the 19 programs now available, the IAT will release another 16 courses in time for Semester 2, 2023. For more information, visit www.iat.nsw.edu.au.
“Until now, businesses were required to submit paper forms and wait up to four weeks to get approved to join the program with on average just ffteen new businesses on boarded each month,” Mr Dominello said.
“With the new online registration process, we have the ability to register hundreds of new businesses every week. For most businesses the registration process will take less than 10 minutes.
“We have also added a new enhanced map experience that will
provide seniors with a bird’s-eye view of the savings on offer.
“Since launching the Digital Seniors Card in April, we have had an average of 24,000 seniors joining the program every month. Our digital savvy seniors are really enjoying the experience with a customer satisfaction rate of 90 per cent.”
Minister for Seniors Mark Coure said increasing business participation in the NSW Seniors Card program was a win-win for seniors and businesses.
“By reducing the registration time, we are making it much easier for businesses across the State to get involved
in the program and promote themselves to the almost two million seniors in NSW,” Mr Coure said.
“The new digital platform will also allow new and existing businesses to easily update their discounts with the click of a button. This is a great opportunity for businesses to directly reach one of the State’s biggest markets.
“While giving them opportunity to connect with more customers, these businesses will ultimately be helping ease some of the pressure on seniors’ house hold budget.”
To register their business for the NSW
Seniors Card program, business representatives must be authorised to act on behalf of the business by being listed as an associate in the Australian Business Register. If they are not, they’ll be guided through the steps for authorisation when they start their registration. Alternatively, they can supply a letter of authority.
For more information or to register, call Service NSW on 13 77 88 for assistance or to complete the online form go to: https:// www.service.nsw.gov. au/transaction/applybe-nsw-seniors-cardprogram-participatingbusiness
Scams affecting small business
Between JanuarySeptember this year, Scamwatch received more than 1,440 reports from small businesses about scams, with $6.6 million lost.
False billing and phishing scams were the most commonly reported scams.
Recent data breaches Scamwatch has seen new scams quickly emerge following the Optus data breach.
As a small business, it’s important that you take extra care with customer accounts to protect your data and your money falling into the hands of scammers.
It’s equally important for you to monitor your platforms and services for scams or suspicious activity.
Five simple steps to avoid scams
1. Inform and educate your
staff members about scams (such as by forwarding this email and subscribing to Scamwatch email alerts and following @ Scamwatch_gov on Twitter).
2. Have clear processes in place for verifying and paying accounts, and make sure all staff know about them.
3. Ensure your systems have up-to-date anti-virus software.
4. Consider what business information you post on social media and networking sites, as scammers use publicly available information to
target businesses.
5. Back up your data regularly and store your backups offsite and offine. The Australian Cyber Security Centre explains how your business can back up your data.
Stay ahead of scammers
Scams Awareness Week is helping to highlight common scams affecting small businesses and what you can do to reduce the risk to your business.
Visit the Scamwatch website to view a series of short educational videos, featuring simple and practical tips to help
you identify and protect your business from scams.
Privacy obligations
Scammers can gain identity information by unlawfully accessing your records.
If your small business has privacy obligations, you must take reasonable steps to protect personal information from misuse, interference, loss, unauthorised access, modifcation or disclosure. See the OAIC’s guide to securing personal information.
More details on protecting your small business are available on the Scamwatch website.
If you think you have been scammed, contact your bank or fnancial institution immediately.
If you have given personal information to a scammer, contact IDCARE on https:// www.idcare.org/
No word on the price yet but Cupra’s all- electric, hot hatch Born could turn some heads.
Built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform, the rear-wheel drive Born is expected to arrive by April next year.
VW believes Cupra’s intersection of design, performance and technology perfectly aligns with the interests of Australian buyers.
Born shares a platform with Volkswagen’s ID.3 and the Audi Q4 e-tron.
With 170kW of power and 310Nm of torque, Born boasts a 0-100km/h time of 7.0 seconds.
What’s more, with an 82kWh battery, 77kWh of which is useable, it will have a range of 511km (WLTP).
Engineers have focused on matching steering, ride, handling
and electronic stability control (ESC) tune to the instantaneous electric thrust unique to BEVs with a view to driver appeal.
Progressive steering, sports suspension and 19-inch alloys are standard.
Dynamic chassis control, 20-inch wheels and wider Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres will form part of a Performance Package option – one of two packs available.
A high level of technology includes LED headlights with Light Assist (Auto High Beam), a 12.0-inch infotainment display and 5.3-inch driver display, DAB+ digital radio, 4 USB-C ports, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and wireless phone charging.
This is bolstered by active safety technology including adaptive cruise
control, 360-degree camera, lane assist, front assist, park assist, side assist with rear traffc alert and more.
Further luxury can be obtained including heated and power adjustable front seats, Beats premium sound and more, via the second, Interior Package.
Cupra’s Ben Wilks said the Born will cement the allure of the Barcelona brand in the local market.
“The Born is a BEV with a long 500kmplus range, exclusive rear-wheel drive hot hatch dynamics, plus the interior space and versatility of a larger vehicle,” he said.
“Its specifcations are ideal for progressive Australian customers who will also be drawn to pricing similar to our other great hot hatch, the Leon VZx.”
Mazda Australia has released details of its MY23 CX-8 SUV highlighted by a major styling update and a range of new tech features.
First sold here in 2018 the CX-8 flls the gap between the mid-sized CX-5 and large CX-9 previously occupied the discontinued CX-7. The other two SUV models are the compact CX-3 and marginally larger CX-30.
Exterior changes include a block mesh pattern grille and grille surround, restyled front and rear bumpers, a new headlight and taillight design, a sleeker rear tailgate and
new wheel designs. A new body colour, Rhodium White, takes the colour palette to eight.
The 10.25-inch Mazda Connect infotainment system now comes standard across the range, as does wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Other tech upgrades include a highresolution 7.0-inch digital instrument display, USB-C ports for front-row occupants and a remote window control system activated via the key fob.
Also standard across the new CX-8 range will be Mazda’s intelligent Drive Select or ‘Mi Drive’, which lets the driver switch between Normal, Sport
and Off-Road modes, will be a standard feature for AWD models.
The updated Mazda CX-8 now gains an even greater reduction in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) inside the cabin, equating to a quieter, smoother ride.
Mazda Australia Managing Director, Vinesh Bhindi, said the updated CX-8’s new features and redesigned appearance would ensure it stayed at the top of buyers’ wish lists.
“With this latest update, Mazda CX-8 has taken the game to another level, with both styling and technology that will ensure it’s a hit with Aussie buyers for years to come.”
In a somewhat mystifying move, Subaru has released a Forester special edition known as the Forester 2.5X.
But from what we can see the only difference between it and the entry level Forester 2.5i AWD is the infotainment unit. There are no markings to differentiate the car, but digging a little deeper into the detail reveals more.
The “absolute beloved classic”, gushes the PR department, will feature an exclusive 7.0-inch Alpine audio unit that introduces wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Well, if you’re a user
of either system, that’s going to make things easier not having to plug in your phone. If you’re not . . . it’s nothing to get excited about.
But, hang on a second, doesn’t the entry model have an 8.0-inch touchscreen?
It certainly does and physical control knobs
to go with it, making the job of accessing features such as volume a whole lot easier.
You do, however, gain a new hidey hole freed
up by the smaller unit for keys and pocket change and the like.
Further investigation reveals the ‘Special Edition’ also loses the single CD player and Voice Command Recognition, as well as dropping a USB port. There’s now just the one USB-A socket.
Forester 2.5X is priced from $37,890 plus onroads, the same as the entry 2.5i and will be available in six colours, Crystal White, Ice Silver, Horizon Blue, Magnetite Grey, Crimson Red and Brilliant Bronze.
Subaru Australia’s Blair Read, said: “Subaru Forester is one of our most popular highvolume vehicles, with
Australians opting to own this car due to its all-around capability, excellent visibility, comfort and reliable drivability.
“We’re delighted to bring the Subaru Forester 2.5X AWD to the Australian market and offer another great choice for Subaru customers.”
Great. Can’t see too many Forester drivers trading up on this one. Sounds like they’ve run out of standard infotainment units and this is plan B to keep sales moving?
Just saying.
A new block mesh grille will be a feature of the upgraded Mazda CX-8
How this as a recipe for cooking up a successful motor vehicle?
Start with the base of Australia’s top-selling brand for the past 25 years, add a badge that’s been around since 1967 and accumulated more than 1.5-million sales here. Then bulk it up to get into the booming compact SUV market, and top it off with the latest in fuel-saving hybrid technology.
What you get is the brand-new Toyota Corolla Cross, a compact SUV that is likely to scare the pants of every other competitor in its highly-competitive market segment.
After a long period when Toyota’s smallest SUV, the RAV4, grew into a mid-sized model leaving the compact feld open to numerous competitors from other brands, it now has three vehicles in contention, Yaris Cross, C-HR and now the Corolla Cross.
There are three Corolla Cross three variants, GX, GXL and a new name, Atmos. As is the norm with Toyota each comes with a hybrid option which adds between $2500 and $3000 to the price while GXL and Atmos are also available with all-wheel drive.
Prices, prior to onroad costs, range from $33,000 for the entry level 2WD GX petrol through to $49,050 for our test vehicle, the Atmos AWD hybrid.
Although it sits on the same platform as the Corolla hatch, the Cross has a totally different body as beftting an SUV. The styling is quite conservative but that’s unlikely to deter the typical Toyota buyer who prefers function over fashion.
While it shares much with the Corolla its outer appearance is more miniRAV4 than maxi-Corolla with a snub-nosed grille featuring the Toyota logo, with blue highlights in the centre. GXL and Atmos add front foglights, enhanced LED headlights and roof rails.
The Atmos gets a two-piece panoramic
moonroof.
INTERIOR Anyone stepping up from the latest Corolla hatch or sedan will have no problem adapting to the dashboard layout of the Cross because, apart from the new touchscreen (more later), they are all-but identical.
That’s not a criticism because we’ve always loved the stylish yet functional Corolla design.
What they will appreciate is the extra interior space that the SUV conversion has brought to the Cross with more headroom throughout and plenty of leg and footroom in the rear seats for all but the tallest of occupants.
Only the Atmos comes with a folding centre armrest complete with twin cupholders.
Boot space varies according to driven wheels and powertrain, ranging from 380 litres in the Atmos AWD hybrid up to 436 litres in the 2WD non-hybrid GX and GXL. Atmos comes with a powered rear hatch and kick opening feature.
Power for the Corolla Cross petrol variants comes the wellestablished Toyota four-cylinder 2.0-litre inline engine that generates 126 kW and 202 Nm from 4400 rpm.
Hybrid versions employ a 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine teamed to an electric motor on the front axle for a combined maximum power output of 146 kW. The GXL
and Atmos hybrids add a second electric drive motor on the rear axle.
Fuel consumption in the petrol 2WD Corolla Cross is a claimed 6.0 litre per 100 kilometres and 4.4 L/100 km from the AWD Hybrid.
Power is linked to either two or four wheels via a sequential ten-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT).
In addition to the usual mandatory safety features all Corolla Cross variants come with eight airbags, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffc alert ; and ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Also standard in all models is the latest Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 package which adds a pre-collision safety system with pedestrian and cyclist detection, active cruise control, lane trace and departure alert with steering assist, lane change assist with deceleration assist, road sign assist, door exit warning and automatic high beam.
In addition, GSX gets parking support brake with vehicle and object detection and a panoramic view monitor. Atmos adds pedestrian detection to the parking support brake feature as well as advanced park assist.
Corolla Cross has yet to receive an ANCAP rating but the maximum fve points would seem certain.
Corolla Cross is the frst Toyota in Australia
to get the brand’s new multimedia system. The entry-level GX uses an 8.0-inch touchscreen, GXL and Atmos get a 10.5-inch screen. The resolution is sharp and fast to respond with the option of using voice activation.
Satellite navigation is standard in the GXL and Atmos.
There’s wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto along with a single Type-C USB port in the front console of the GX and two in the centre console of the GXL and Atmos.
Behind the steering wheel there’s a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster in the GX and GXL, with a much larger (12.3 inch) one in the Atmos.
Corolla Cross also gets the latest version of the Toyota Connected Services communications system that uses the myToyota Connect smartphone app to allow owners to do such things as remotely check the status of the doors and lights, access information such as the vehicle’s last known location and recent trips, or start the engine or climate control.
The taller body of the Corolla Cross assist with access while the higher driving position, large windscreen, side windows and mirrors together with a relatively narrow A-pillar combine to provide excellent visibility to the front and side, only let down a bit by a fairly skinny rear window.
There’s a reassuringly
solid feel to the Cross and it’s easy to drive and park around the urban environment which is most likely to be its home with steering which is relatively light but direct and intuitive.
Apart from the batteryonly start and silent running the Atmos hybrid that we tested had that sharp acceleration that we enjoy in all vehicles with an electric component.
Suspension is wellbalanced although we did get knocked around when maneuvering through a badly-cratered section of our drive courtesy of some recent fooding.
Toyota is playing a waiting game in adopting pure electric and plug-in hybrid technology relying – very successfully – on the hybrid variants that feature across the range with sub-5.0 L/100 km fuel consumption relatively easily achieved.
It’s quite rare for road testers to be able to match or beat the optimistic fuel consumption numbers that car company’s publish but we were able to average 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres during our week in the Corolla Cross AWD Hybrid, just under the listed 4.4 L/100 km. In one 40-kilometre rural run we got down to 3.6.
Helping these impressive results, Corolla Cross is the frst local model to get the 5th generation Toyota hybrid powertrain which combines a lighter lithium-ion battery with
a more powerful main electric drive motor.
Everything about the new Corolla Cross points to it being a major success for Toyota.
The Corolla name brings decades of credibility while the SUV body adds the familyfriendly practicality that is so popular at this time. Add it’s neat styling, comparatively spacious interior, capable performance and excellent fuel economy and we expect it to overtake its compact SUV rivals within the next 12 months.
All Toyotas now come with a fve-year, unlimited kilometre warranty. This can be extended to seven years on the engine and driveline, and 10 years on the hybrid battery, subject to all scheduled servicing being done at Toyota dealerships.
There is also fve-year capped price servicing due every 12 months or 15,000 kilometres at just $230 per visit.
GX Petrol 2WD: $33,000
GX Hybrid 2WD: $35,500
GXL Petrol 2WD: $36,750
GXL Hybrid 2WD: $39,250
GXL Hybrid AWD: $42,250
Atmos Petrol 2WD: $43,550
Atmos Hybrid 2WD: $46,050
Atmos Hybrid AWD: $49,050
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Toyota dealer for drive-away prices.
(Toyota Corolla Cross 2.0-litre petrol / electric hybrid fve-door wagon
ENGINE:
Capacity: 1.987 litres Confguration: Four cylinders in line
Maximum Power: 112 kW at 6000 rpm
Maximum Torque: 190 Nm at 4400 rpm
Fuel Type: Standard unleaded petrol Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 4.4 L/100km CO2 Emissions: 101 g/km
DRIVELINE: Ten-speed continuously variable transmission
Kia Niro is a compact, fve-seat crossover offered by Kia since 2016. Second generation Niro was launched in late 2021 and is essentially a downsized vessel for Kia’s electric technology.
A partner for the larger, higher-priced EV6, it’s offered in three versions overseas: hybrid, plugin hybrid and battery electric variants.
Australia takes the hybrid and fully electric versions and the one we’re looking at here is the fully electric top spec Niro EV GT-Line.
We were pretty impressed with the previous version and eager to see what changes had been made with the replacement which lobbed in July this year. The basics remain the same, but there’s a lot more bling and of course the price has gone up to match.
All-new Niro features the latest version of Kia’s signature Tiger Face, which extends from the bonnet to the bumper below.
Although the shape of the wagon is conventional, the look has been enhanced by striking ‘heartbeat’ daytime running lights (DRLs), a bold skid plate and coloured side cladding which combine to lift the look.
The side profle features a striking C-Pillar, fnished in contrasting colours, which incorporates an air channel that exits behind the tail lights to help to improve aerodynamic effciency.
At the rear, Volvo-like tail lights complete the look, while the heartbeatshaped rear refector, skid plate and lower bumper complement the front design.
Niro EV comes in two grades: S and GT-Line. S is priced from $65,300 and the GT-Line from $72,100 plus on-roads. Premium adds $520.
Our car was fnished in Snow White Pearl with a Steel Grey C pillar. Inside, recycled materials have been used to reduce the environmental footprint.
The headlining is made from recycled PET materials, the seats are made from Bio PU with Tencel from eucalyptus tree fbres and BTX-free paint (without benzene, toluene, and xylene) is
used on the door panels.
Options for personalisation include a choice of contrasting C-Pillar colours with the GT-Line: Cityscape Green or Mineral Blue can be combined with a gloss black C-Pillar, while Snow White Pearl can be paired with a C-Pillar and cladding in Steel Grey.
Standard kit includes two-zone climate air, cloth/artifcial leather trim, power-adjust front seats and a heated steering wheel.
There’s also heads-up display, smart cruise control with stop and go, remote smart parking assist, auto high beam, auto lights and wipers, auto-dimming rear vision mirror, a handsfree tailgate, wireless Qi charger and telematics (eCall, Remote Control, Vehicle Status Monitoring etc).
EV GT-Line adds ambient lighting, LED headlights, ventilated front seats, tilt and slide sunroof, front passenger reclining relaxation seat and V2L which means you can use the car to power other devices.
Infotainment in the GT-Line consists of a 12.3-inch touchscreen and eight speaker Harman Kardon audio, with voice control, built-in navigation, with AM/FM and DAB digital radio and the Sounds of Nature background noise. Once again, the cheaper S gets wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while the GT-Line makes do with the wired version of both. Go fgure?
As well as a platform, Niro shares its powertrain and battery pack with the Hyundai Kona Electric.
This means 150kW of power and 255Nm
of torque, Single Speed Transmission (reduction gear) that drives the front wheels and a battery capacity of 64.8kWh.
Safety features include eight airbags, rear view camera with dynamic guidelines and autonomous emergency braking (AEB), with Car, Pedestrian, Cyclist and Junction Turning detection.
There’s also Multi Collision Braking (MCB), Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross Traffc Collision Avoidance Assist (RCCA) and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) as standard across all trim levels.
Other standard safety features include Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), High Beam Assist (HBA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Rear View Monitor (RVM) and Rear Cross-Traffc CollisionAvoidance Assist (RCCA).
GT-Line adds Front and Rear Parking Sensors, Parking CollisionAvoidance Assist Reverse (PCA-R), Safe Exit Assist, Power Child Lock and Emergency Service ‘eCall’ through the Kia Connect functions.
There are four selectable drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow (the latter replacing Eco+). Each has a different effect on things like the air-con and electric motor torque profle.
A ‘virtual’ engine sound compensates for lack of engine noise. Supposedly, if you don’t like it, you can turn it off (we couldn’t fnd how to do so).
The dash from 0-100 km/h takes 7.8 seconds, it has a top speed of
167km/h and a very useable driving range of 460 km (WLTP) -- 5km more than the model it replaces.
The 423kg battery array is secreted under the foor and takes the weight of the car to a hefty 1727 kg.
It’s a much snazzier looking thing than the previous model, with cool LED lights, an interesting rear pillar design and two-tone paint work that all make it stand out.
A new car has not been launched that hasn’t grown in dimensions and Niro is no exception.
The EV’s dimensions have grown 45mm in length to 4420mm, 20mm in width to 1825mm, with a height the same at 1570mm EV. The wheelbase has also grown 20mm longer to 2720mm.
Unlike the hybrid, the EV is ftted with smaller, aerodynamic, 17-inch alloys and 215/55 R17 Michelin Primacy 3 rubber.
Boot space has grown to 475 litres behind the rear seats, with a tyre repair kit for punctures.
The dated interior of the previous model has been replaced by hi-tech, minimalist decor echoing rivals such as the Volvo and Polestar.
Colourwise, it’s a combination of bone, grey and piano black trim, with some metallook fnishers. Some of the grey is textured, but there needs to be more colour variation.
A pair of 10.25-inch digital screens, one for the instruments and a touch sensitive one for infotainment merge to create a single sweeping effect.
Touch sensitive aircon controls sit below the centre screen, separated from the screen above by a pair of slim line air vents.
Kia says the layout removes clutter for a clean and coherent look and ensures front seat
occupants can access these important controls without the need to scroll through multiple menus.
That may be so but try turning down the volume if you’re the front seat passenger. There’s no physical volume knob and nothing apparent in the infotainment system.
Same goes for fnding your favourite radio station. It assumes the operator knows to swipe the screen left to expose more options including the radio.
There’s no physical home button either.
For once in a very long time, I found this latest Kia system diffcult to use. Bad move guys.
Like the previous model, the drive experience is fun, punchy, when necessary, with decent range to keep any feelings of anxiety at bay.
With 420 kilos of battery riding close to the road, Niro is surprisingly well anchored in corners, although weight eventually tells against it as it tries to run wide.
The ride can be harsh and bouncy at times (EVs don’t like speed humps).
Performance is rapid but not what we’d describe as fat out quick. Punch the accelerator and it surges forward, putting annoying tailgaters in their place -but they’re not gone and forgotten.
We clocked up more than 500km at an average of 14.7 kWh/100km.
Niro EV seems reluctant to give up its stored energy, with distance to empty changing hardly at all sometimes -- unlike some EVs that chew through their charge quickly.
Charging is via Type 2 AC or CCS Combo 2 DC connections and we’re happy to say the charge port is conveniently located at the front of the
car.
Given a choice, I’d prefer all my EVs to come this way, as it makes nosing the car into the charger much easier. Note though that not all chargers you come across support all types of connection, and you may require an adaptor.
Satnav by the way keeps track of the nearest charge station.
Topping up the EV’s 64.8kWh lithium-ion polymer battery from 10-100 per cent using the supplied cable and standard powerpoint will take 27 hours 30 mins.
With a standard 7kW wall box this reduces to 9 hours 25 mins, or with a more powerful 11kW box, 6 hours 20 mins. A fast DC charger can do it in as little as 43 minutes.
Energy from braking is reclaimed and fed back into the battery. It can be controlled using steering wheel paddles and permits one-pedal driving.
Lift your foot off the accelerator and the car will brake automatically. While it all sounds like fun, the purchase of an electric car is a big commitment.
Like I’ve said in the past, buying an EV, at least at this stage of the game, is something of a lifestyle choice. Be warned because it could take over your life.
The previous model offered value for money in terms of an EV. Price creep has made this one less attractive, together with a nerdy control system.
You’ve got to keep someone sensible in charge, preferably a woman. I hate myself for saying this -- but they are better at cutting through the hype.
Thousands of frst home buyers will now be able to unlock the dream of home ownership sooner following the successful passage of the Perrottet Government’s historic legislation in Parliament today.
For the frst time in Australia, frst home buyers will be given the choice between paying a smaller annual property fee or a large upfront stamp duty on their frst property.
Premier Dominic Perrottet said the First Home Buyer Choice would be a gamechanger for frst home buyers, helping families get the keys to their frst home sooner.
“The great Australian
dream of home ownership just got much easier for a generation of young families,” Mr Perrottet said.
“For the frst time we will provide frst home buyers with a choice,
helping thousands of people to shave around two years off the time needed to save for a deposit.
“People can now save huge sums of money on the biggest purchase of their life.”
Treasurer Matt Kean said the new law would help more young people enjoy the fnancial security that comes with home ownership.
“First Home Buyer Choice will signifcantly reduce upfront costs, reduce the time needed to save for a deposit and will see the majority of eligible frst home buyers paying less tax overall,” Mr Kean said.
“We are giving people the opportunity to decide for themselves what best suits their fnancial situation. Those buying
a home to live in for life can still choose stamp duty, but for many, paying an annual tax for the limited time they actually live in the property will make more sense.”
Eligible frst home buyers can access the scheme from Saturday 12 November.
These buyers will be required to pay stamp duty on purchases made until 15 January 2023, but then will be able to apply for a refund of their stamp duty if they choose to opt into the annual fee.
From 16 January 2023 purchasers can opt in to the annual fee directly and will not be required to pay stamp duty.
First Home Buyer Choice will be available
for dwellings costing up to $1.5 million. For the purchase of vacant land intended for the construction of a frst home, the price cap will be up to $800,000.
The program is uncapped and will be available for every eligible frst home buyer who wants to access it.
NSW Treasury data shows the breakeven period between upfront stamp duty and an annual property fee would be 36 years for an $800,000 apartment, 28 years for a $1 million townhouse, and 26 years for a $1.25 million house.
The same data shows that if a frst home buyer purchased a $1 million house and sold it 10 years later, which is around the median holding period,
the annual property payments over the 10 years would total $19,881 in present value terms compared with $40,090 in upfront stamp duty - a saving of $20,209.
The NSW Government has allocated $728.6 million to First Home Buyer Choice over the next four years.
The First Home Buyer Choice is a key component of the Government’s $2.8 billion
Housing Package announced at the 202223 NSW Budget that aligns with the Housing 2041 vision.
For more information on the First Home Buyer Choice, go to https://www.nsw.gov. au/initiative/frst-homebuyer-choice
An online calculator is available to assist frst home buyers to assess their options. To view the calculator, go to https://www.service. nsw.gov.au/transaction/ calculateyourpropertytax
The NSW Government has announced a review of the NSW Retail Leases Act 1994 (the Act), which impacts landlords, investors and retail tenants.
Minister for Small Business Victor Dominello said it was timely to review the Act to consider the impact of any changes in the retail landscape and broader leasing practices and requirements.
“The review will consider whether the Act continues to meet its policy objectives and whether any amendments should be made to improve certainty and the regulatory environment for retail landlords and tenants,” Mr Dominello said.
“Cutting red tape, improving certainty and reducing administrative costs are primary objectives of the review.” Mr Dominello said
the effective operation of the Act was a key requirement for many businesses and investors and the review would help ensure the legislation remained effective and constructive.
“I look forward to the review identifying practical measures that will support business and the broader retail property industry,” Mr
Dominello said.
An industry reference group will be established representing landlords, tenants and other key stakeholders to support the review and provide industry expertise. An inclusive public consultation process will also ensure other stakeholders are afforded the opportunity to have their say.
NSW Small Business
Commissioner Chris Lamont, who will be conducting the review, said he expected it would provide a renewed focus on improving business relationships between retail leasing tenants and landlords.
“The Retail Leases Act should be clear, refect industry expectations and promote confdence across the business sector,” Mr Lamont said. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the review and can review the Discussion Paper, Terms of Reference and complete the online survey by visiting https://www. haveyoursay.nsw.gov. au/retail-leases. The review is expected to be completed within nine months.
ALSTONVILLE
3 Cawley Close
Saturday 10:00-10:30 am
Troy MacRae 0414 867 035
ALSTONVILLE
1/13 Arrowsmith Avenue Saturday 10:00-10:30 am Troy MacRae 0414 867 035 or Tina Kelly 0421 183 222 Elders Real Estate Alstonville
ALSTONVILLE
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ALSTONVILLE 36 Cooke Avenue Saturday 11:00-11:30 am Tina Kelly 0421 183 222 Elders Real Estate Alstonville
LENNOX HEAD 49 Hutley Drive Saturday 12:00-12:30 pm Jack Oates 0429 533 940 Elders Real Estate Alstonville
LYNWOOD 52 Dees Lane Saturday 11:00-11:30 am Troy MacRae 0414 867 035 Elders Real Estate Alstonville
First home buyers across NSW will have a spring in their step at auctions and open homes this weekend with the First Home Buyer Choice coming into effect.
For the frst time in Australia, eligible frst home buyers will be given the choice between paying a smaller annual property payment or upfront stamp duty on properties up to $1.5 million.
Though the First
Home Buyer Choice will not begin until 16 January 2023, frst home buyers from this weekend will be eligible to retrospectively opt into the annual payment. They can apply from 16 January to opt in and have any stamp duty paid refunded.
Premier Dominic Perrottet said this choice will empower frst home buyers as they head out to auctions and inspections over the
weekend.
“Starting today, frst home buyers will get a huge boost with a system that helps rather than hinders their journey to owning their frst home,” Mr Perrottet said.
“The opportunity starts now, with buyers able to choose the option that will suit their own fnancial circumstances and see them come out ahead in the long run.”
Treasurer Matt Kean said more than 6,000
frst home buyers are estimated to choose the annual property fee each year.
“This is about giving home hunters the chance to decide what works best for them. It will give people greater fexibility as they approach one of the biggest investment decisions most will make in their lifetime,” Mr Kean said.
“Home ownership builds economic security, fnancial independence,
personal freedom and offers people a stake in our nation. This reform will bring thousands of people closer to that dream, sooner.”
For the purchase of vacant land intended for the construction of a frst home, the price cap will be up to $800,000.
The First Home Buyer Choice is a key component of the Government’s $2.8 billion Housing Package announced in the 2022-
23 NSW Budget.
Eligible frst home buyers can register their interest at: https://www. service.nsw.gov.au/ get-notifed-about-frsthome-buyer-choice
An online calculator is available to assist frst home buyers to assess their options. To view the calculator, go to: https:// www.service.nsw.gov. au/transaction/calculateyour-property-tax
NSW Health is warning people about the dangers of consuming large amounts of poppy seeds after at least eight people in NSW presented to hospital with severe poisoning soon after ingestion. More cases have been reported interstate.
Symptoms of poisoning have only been observed when people have purposely consumed poppy seeds as a drink. Reported symptoms can be severe, including: seizures/severe muscle pain/severe muscle spasm/ cramping/stiffness or abnormal movements.
Preliminary investigation suggests that high levels of a naturally occurring chemical in the raw poppy seeds may be a factor, which needs to be well-cooked to be destroyed.
The investigation is ongoing and there have been no cases of poisoning in people who have eaten poppy seeds as part of a baked food product.
Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, A/Prof Darren Roberts, said consuming large quantities of this chemical in poppy seeds can be dangerous.
“We are urging anyone who has had large quantities of poppy seeds, for example as a drink, and who experiences any unusual and severe symptoms to seek immediate medical attention by visiting their nearest Emergency Department. Call triple zero for emergency assistance,” A/ Prof Darren Roberts said.
The NSW Poisons Information Centre can be contacted 24/7 on 13 11 26 and can provide more information about poisons and what to do in suspected cases of poppy seed poisoning.
NSW Health is working with the NSW Food Authority, as well as other jurisdictions, to investigate the issue further.
NSW Health Pathology is celebrating 10 years since it was formed, bringing together public pathology and forensic and analytical science services from around the state.
The statewide organisation now operates more than 60 laboratories and 150 collection centres across NSW, conducting over 100,000 clinical and scientifc investigations every day.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the public pathology service proved invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the organisation provided vital public health testing.
“From growing the live virus and sequencing its genome, to creating an SMS service to notify patients of their PCR results, NSW Health Pathology proved essential to protecting the health and safety of the people of NSW,” Mr Hazzard said.
“I want to thank all of NSW Health Pathology’s staff
for their incredible efforts over the past 10 years. The work they have done, and continue to do, to care for the people of NSW is remarkable.”
During the past decade NSW Health Pathology has made signifcant advances, including opening a $91.5 million state-of-the art Forensic Medicine and Coroners Court Complex at Lidcombe and rolling out an electronic tracking system for patient samples statewide.
Founding Chief Executive Tracey McCosker PSM, who remains at the helm of the organisation, said the service’s 5000-strong workforce is dedicated to fnding the answers that help protect the health and safety of the people of NSW.
“The dedication our people have displayed is something I won’t forget. They have worked tirelessly and under enormous pressure to deliver services we’ve all relied on and can all be proud of,” Ms McCosker said.
It is unclear why tradies hate me.
Perhaps it was that incident years ago when a builder was putting the fnishing touches to some new back steps at a friend’s place, and I nearly died descending them to admire his handy work because the treads were too close together or narrow even for my (rather short) boots.
“Ooh, are these steps a bit close together”? I politely opined.
“What does ‘opined’ mean, and did I ask for your opinion? How long have you been a builder?”, he responded with a tone not dissimilar to my boots.
Or perhaps it was “How many steps have you built”,
but you get the idea. He was questioning my ability to make something when of course he should have been asking “How many steps have you descended?”, a suggestion which went down about as well as I did his steps.
Luckily my friend’s mother also almost died that day on those steps and suddenly, “perhaps they are a bit close together…yeah, I was going to change them”, he was heard to remark.
Co-incidentally, every encounter with tradesmen ever since has followed a similar pattern.
But how do they know?
Is it because they are already having smoko when
I stroll past with the dog at 7am? Which begs the question “why do tradies always start stupidly early”?
It’s not as if they do any work then. They stand around yacking about footy or Australia’s level of migrant intake while John Laws blathers on in the background, occasionally starting up their loudest power tool on the tick of 7am, just for effect.
Is it my soft hands when greeting tradies, revealing, quite correctly, that I haven’t lifted anything heavier than a pen for 30 years, and ask, again politely, why can’t we do without cornices?
Is it because whenever I wear steel-capped boots I get blisters?
Or that the only hi-viz colour that suits me is fouropink?
Does it stem from that time that I innocently asked the builder why the owners hadn’t used an architect. How was I to know he was an owner builder? How can you tell.
Maybe it was that time I was having Friday night drinks with friends right next to a bunch of tradies and ordered moscato instead instead of Tooheys New, and upon sensing the sneers said, “same as you, it’s what we order when we want something cold, frothy and completely uninspiring but unlike Tooheys New, has some favour?”
Blanc (“partners in crime”) 2019, $18. What is it with the Aussie wine industry and crooks? Nice wine over which to ponder your next heist or fraud or speeding fine. 9/10.
(“that’s refreshingly honest”) 2020, $18.
Refreshingly honest putting Riverland on the label too, good on ya Byrne Vineyards. Honesty is the best policy in life and chardonnay. 9.1/10
Munro (Individual Vineyard) Shiraz 2019, $115.
Like a lot of tradies on a Friday night I am not a super fan of Hunter reds but I had to eat my words, and my dinner, with yet another exception to the rule.
Body and depth of a brickie, why can’t they all be like this? 9.6/10.
(Sustainably Made) 2022, $10. Again, maybe not a go-to for tradie mates, but ignoring the gender stereo type debate and the vocational stereo type debate, tradies’ wives will likely love this, as did we, specially those called Fiona. Again astonishingly good value. 9.2/10.
(Sustainably Made) 2022, $10. It’s no soft and fluffy moscato, but as a Friday arvo tipple, you are still best advised to not order this with your tradie mates. Nevertheless, amazingly good value and not out of place at an art gallery front bar. 9.1/10.
Vineyard ‘The Aunts’ Shiraz, 2021, $40. Sounds like the hole I dig myself when in the company of tradies, but I reckon I could win a few over with this, steer them away from the Tooheys for day, for the same price as a round on a Friday night. 9.4/10.
ACROSS 1 Trial (4)
Rundown (10)
Most courageous (7)
Improvement (7)
Contend (8)
Light purple (5)
Doohickey (4)
Video recorders (10)
Healthy (10)
Headland (4)
Knave (5)
Bomb fragments (8)
Token (7)
US politician, Hillary — (7)
Cynicism (10)
(4)
First screen of a video game (5,4)
Signature (9)
Food dressing (5)
Having sharp corners (7)
African livestock enclosure (5)
Drills (9)
From what cereal is pumpernickel made?
Who did Monica Bellucci (pictured) play in The Passion of the Christ?
What comic strip did Jim Davis work on before Gar eld?
4 The endocrine system is a system of what in the human body?
5 What is the term for a baby ferret? 6 What colour is cadmium? 7 The Nobel Prize was established in 1895 in which country? 8 Who released the 2004 single CoinOperated Boy? 9 And to what musical genre is it said to belong? 10 In computer data storage, if you are striping, are your disks in RAID 0 or RAID 1?
Aries Mar 21 - Apr 20
ARIES MAR 21 - APR 19
You’re getting on very well with those you care about most and it appears you have a lot of positive infuence on other people you meet as well. Even if from time to time, you and your lover seem to disagree, you’re both able to easily fnd compromises. Make sure that the romantic side of your relationship is not being overlooked or even completely forgotten.
In your job there are positive outcomes to be had right now. You’re able to stick to your view point and effortlessly convince your colleagues and your superiors about your preferred way of working.
Currently any team you’re responsible for turns out to be very successful because there is no competitive atmosphere to disrupt the implementation of your winning strategy.
Take note, it’s important under present circumstances, to try and avoid disagreements with your lover. You’re advised to rethink your position - one more time – to be on the safe side!
Accusations made in haste and heated discussions lead to unnecessary stress that swamps your partner. Be gentle with your lover and yourself and importantly remain objective and fair!
Full of life you’re able to master the tasks with drive and determination, which brings brilliant results. Sometimes you don’t know what to do with all your energy. You rush headfrst into projects, which in the end you’re not able to follow through with. You should concentrate on using your potential in a suitable way. Otherwise you’ll achieve less than you’re capable of!
GEMINI MAY 21 - JUNE 20
Again and again you prove you’ve great diplomatic skill. You’re settling quarrels or dealing with an on-going upset in your relationship – you defnitely have the right personal approach! You should spend as much time as you can with your lover, the person you care about most. If you’re living alone, you’ve a great chance to change this now. Simply be a little courageous! The effcient and considerate way which you’re conducting yourself at work is particularly commendable and can help you advance in your career. Be proud and make sure the people who matter most are aware of your achievements; you’re a high performer, which should be valued and appreciated. Success normally goes hand in hand with making sure you are heard!
Being fair-minded about your own interests and those of your lover will bring about mutual respect; especially if you live in a long-term relationship, you’re able to make the necessary compromises that will stand the test of time. If you’re single the chances of success are good too, thanks to your confdent appearance you make a lasting impression on those you meet. Show what you’re capable of and make the most of opportunities as they arise. Assert yourself as much as possible and bring others round to your point of view. Try to take care of as many negotiations and administrative responsibilities as possible - as long as you’re able to approach them with relative ease. Be aware - others may now try to take the credit for all your efforts!
Leo Jul 23 - Aug 23
LEO JUL 23 - AUG 22
Any extreme resentment won’t do your love life any good. If your relationship is unduly stressed with needless tussles and your attitude alienates your partner. Control yourself a bit more! If you’re single, it’s possible such brusque conduct works quite well - to pick someone up. But nobody will want to stay around you for too long, if you continue to behave like this. You’re really motivated; with so much energy you must direct it towards a positive goal. You’ll be surprised how much you achieve. But take care not to get involved in any contentious issues with colleagues. You’re not particularly good with anyone who objects to your methods; you’re easily wound up. If you’re behaving this way, you need to practice some self-control.
You’re able to positively resolve long standing matters with your lover before they intensify any further. If you’ve been in a relationship for a prolonged period, you might want to think about making it permanent. If you’re single the next date - could be a crucial one. Whether it results in a proposal of marriage or a new relationship – love and romance are on the agenda! You effortlessly take care of everything. You’re especially skilled in solving any awkward situations that crop up. When it comes to disputes amongst colleagues, you’re the perfect mediator and even in negotiations you’ll stand your ground. Take care of your personal affairs. Don’t postpone important decisions; decide what to do now! You can rely on your intuition.
LIBRA SEP 23 - OCT 22
Your love life can be unfavourably affected by your deeply passionate feelings, which could easily cause tension and clashes with your partner. Alternatively, you might fnd that love-making can be a great help in easing the situation between you, but any arguments that might possibly be on-going are best left till later. Ultimately conficts can’t be resolved by sex alone. You’ll encounter a situation at work this week, which will irritate you immensely. Try to remain calm! Often the worry is not worth it. Nearly always most conficts are over just as quickly as they started. At the same time you shouldn’t be too complacent! If there are fundamental problems, try to phrase your opinion in an objective and carefully considered manner.
Put some energy into your romantic life and make an effort to be happy in your relationship. Listen carefully when your lover speaks to you. Don’t unnecessarily put at risk what you’ve built together over the years! Try to utilize your enhanced energy to keep up the erotic tension between you. Surprise your lover, let them how spontaneous and original you can be. It’s important to give way in potentially argumentative situations or you’ll fnd any progress you’ve previously made is eroded. Concentrate on things you have to do and you’ll be problem free. Be watchful; nobody should think you’re being complacent! However, your work situation isn’t everything; use your spare resources to create a better work/life balance for yourself.
Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21
SAGITTARIUS NOV 22 - DEC 21
You’re not behaving very diplomatically and your lover is feeling the full effects of your dismissive attitude. Be more considerate and allow others to express their point of view as well. Your stubbornness and bossiness tends to bug your partner and they feel exasperated. If single approach matters less-hastily, thoughtfulness often gets you further than obstinacy. Are your colleagues annoying? Does your boss demand too much? Do you feel provoked? Naturally if this is the case, take long deep breath before making any wild assumptions or accusations; if you want to maintain a good working relationship with others. Eventually you’ll manage to overcome your problems and be able to tackle any especially demanding tasks.
Your ability to firt has never been better; it’s time to strut your stuff! If you’re single make use of your appeal and keep your eyes open for romantic opportunities. With such confdence, you draw attention to yourself and are quite a catch. If in a relationship, luck is on your side too; you charm your lover even though the circumstances are not as good as they might be. You’re in the lucky position of being able to make use of all your skills. You’re enthusiastic and with such an inspirational attitude, you’re appreciated by your work colleagues and those who matter most. Your unfailing energy and all together considerate ways make you a popular coworker. Keep going like this, it could soon contribute to the advancement of your career.
AQUARIUS jan 20 - feb 18
You would like to change a lot of things. But you run the risk of making your lover feel confused. You’re sticking to your principles with all your pent up frustration; instead show your partner you need them, take a walk together or give each other a comforting massage. If you’re single use a more restrained approach, otherwise you could easily appear rather foolish. With such a high level of energy you easily make unfounded accusations and jump to wrong conclusions. Try to calm down and stop being so irritable, it only serves to cause confusion amongst those you work with. If possible, over the next few days, concentrate on tasks where you can work alone. If that’s not possible, refrain from coffee and other stimulants. Stay calm!
You’re irresistible, sociable and outgoing, you’ve got the ability to respond well to people you fnd attractive. It’s great to have a lover like you, who has the right attitude, knows how to handle a relationship and has a big heart. You won’t be alone for too long. Your relationship could easily turn into a happy partnership and ultimately becomes even happier for you. You can make things happen and be enormously effective. The advantage you have that makes you a winner is the pleasure you derive from the projects you undertake. You’re able to accomplish your goals and show consideration for others. You have an excellent sense of what to do and say in certain situations and which ones to avoid. You should rely on that sense!
14.02.1934 - 3.11.2018
Annette Benn 21.06.1967 - 23.10.2019
Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day Unseen, unheard, but always near Still loved, still missed and very dear.
Carmel and Families
04.01.1944 – 05.11.2022
Passed away peacefully at Lismore Base Hospital, in the care of his loving family over a nip of Rum, aged 78 years.
Loved and loving Husband of Rosie for 52 years. Gentle loving Father and Father-in-law to Tanya & Christopher, Louise & Jason, and Sharon & Rodney.
Cherished Nonno to Angus, Ollie, Zephyr & Oliva. Loved Brother of “Ernie”. Loved by the extended Poles & Verado Families.
In keeping with Bruno’s wishes, a private family cremation has been held Monday 14th November 2022
18. 12. 1929 ~ 09. 11. 2022
Passed away peacefully at Ballina. Dearly loved son of Nellie & Patrick (both deceased), loving brother & brother-in-law of John & Eileen, beloved uncle, great uncle and great great uncle.
Loved by many and will be sadly missed.
Requiem Mass for the repose of Louis’ Soul will be celebrated at St Francis Xavier’s Catholic Church, Ballina on Friday (November 18, 2022) commencing at 10am.
25-7-1942 ~ 5-11-2022
Passed away on Saturday 29th October 2022 Aged 36 years
Dearly loved wife of Frank. Loving Mother and Mother-in-law of Timothy, Christopher & Gillian, Pauline & Jon. Much loved Nanna of Sarah, Laura, Kate, Claire and Declan. Passed away 5th November 2022 AGED 80 years
According to Margaret’s wishes a private burial has been held.
Dearly loved Wife of Richard Adoring Mum of Jack and Elloise and Step-Mum of Jesse Beautiful & loved Daughter of Peter & Jenny and Daughter-in-law of Clarrie (dec) & Yvonne Beloved Sister of Kerry, David and Sandra and Sister-in-law of Emma, Tim, Sue & Geo and Leanne & Chris Loved Aunty Megs of Estella, Perle, Toby, Felix, Genevieve, Robert, Rebecca, James, Jake, Corbin, Bridgette, Nash, Maevy and Teddy
A FUNERAL SERVICE to celebrate Meagan’s life was held at the Bulter family property at Sandy Hill on Saturday 12th November 2022 and A GRAVESIDE SERVICE to inter Meagan was held at the Kyogle Lawn Cemetery on Monday 14th November 2022 “Cantered o into the sunset”
19.06.1940—11.11.2022
Peter passed peacefully at Lismore Base Hospital Friday, 11th November 2022, aged 82 years.
Son of Harry and Eileen (dec.), father of Anthony, Stephen and Michael, former husband of Marie, partner of Jenny, and beloved grandfather.
A public memorial service will be held at Parkview Funeral Home Ballina 10:30 am Saturday 19th November, 2022. No owers by request. Please refer to Parkview Funeral Home website for livestreaming details.
11.07.1932 ~ 08.11.2022
Passed away at Ballina Hospital and late of Norton Street, Ballina.
Loving mother and mother-in-law of Jo-Ann & Tony Hancock, Dallas Joyce and Melissa Brown. Loved nonna of her 9 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.
Sister of Henry, Jean, Vince, Eric, Mavis (all dec), Kevin and Pat and aunt of their families.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Rita’s Funeral Service to be held at the Rainbow Chapel, Rainbow Avenue West Ballina on THURSDAY (November 17, 2022) commencing at 11.00am. A er the service a private cremation will take place.
Ballina 02 6686 7036
Passed away suddenly 9th November 2022. Much loved husband to Dorothy. Loved father and father-in-law to Sarah & Bradley Moore, Danny (dec), Michael & Rebecca, and Luke & Adela. Cherished pop to Jacob, Sophie, Chloe, Nathan, Ellie, Amber, Hollie, Mitchell, Chelsea, William and Jack. Aged 70 years
For funeral details please visit www.parkviewfunerals.com.au in the coming days
“Wally”
14.10.1944 - 8.11.2022
Passed away peacefully at Lismore Base Hospital, aged 78 years.
Loved and loving Husband of Marion for 47 years. Loving Father of Janine Campbell and her family. Stepfather of Leisa Munn and Tony & Lisa Munn. Loved Poppy to their Families.
Cherished Twin Brother & brother-in-law of Donald & Ann (Both Dec’d) and brother & brother-in-law to Dorothy Osborne, Margaret & Gordon Starkey, and Elaine Anderson (Dec’d) Neil (dec) & Marlene Flanagan and Esther Clarson. Loved Uncle of their families.
A service to celebrate Wally’s life was held at the Chapel of the Lismore Memorial Gardens Wednesday 16th November 2022
,,Biey
Binney 02 6622 2420
Dunoon Road North Lismore, Allura Parklands Residential Development, Lismore LGA Allura Parklands Pty Ltd invites Aboriginal people and Aboriginal groups who hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the signi cance of Aboriginal objects and places for Dunoon Road, North Lismore to register to be consulted.
A development application (DA5.2021.221.1) has been submitted for the proposed Allura Parklands Residential Development, located west of Dunoon Road, North Lismore NSW. e proposed development is for the establishment of mixed-use lots in eight precincts. A total of 759 lots will comprise one residual lot, 742 new residential lots, 14 public reserves, and two commercial lots. e allotments subject to development comprise Lot 21 DP1148069, Lot 20 DP 1148069, Lot 2 DP 570029, Lot 1 DP 596437, Lot 1 DP 1243923, Lot 113 DP 755729, Lot 2 DP 1243923, Lot 1 DP 772626, Lot 2 DP 772626, Lot 3 DP 772626, and Lot 35 DP 755729.
e purpose of consultation with Aboriginal people is to assist the proponent in the preparation of an application for an AHIP and to assist the Executive Director of Heritage NSW (Department of Planning and Environment) consideration and determination of the application.
Please note that details of the Aboriginal people or organisations who register an interest in consultation will be forwarded to Heritage NSW and Ngulinguh Local Aboriginal Land Council (NLALC). Please advise at the time of registration if you do not wish for your details to be released to the relevant organisations.
For more information please contact:
Tony Hurt
Barker Ryan Stewart (on behalf of Allura Parklands Pty Ltd) 76 Tamar Street Ballina NSW 2480
T:0414217664
E: tony@brs.com.au
To register your interest, please contact: Grace Eldon
E: g.eldon@everick.net.au
Everick Heritage Pty Ltd 6B Reserve Street, Annandale, NSW 2038 T: 02 9552 2944
Registrations must be received by phone or in writing by 24 November 2022.
Sale Notes: e females booked for this sale are of exceptional quality and consist of Angus, Brangus, F1, Charbray, Hereford, Santa/Hereford, Brahman and Speckle Parks. Females will be available in smaller lines and on display from 9.30am Saturday. Your attendance would be highly recommended.
Further Bookings Welcome
A/c Percey and Pat Mills
15 Cedar Street, Goonellabah Wednesday 23rd November, 10am
Motor Vehicle: 2010 Great Wall Tray Back Ute 2WD, Only 37,750km Furniture: Household full of good clean furniture including - Westinghouse fridge, Top load washing machine, Dining table & 6 Chairs, Lounge suite, Bedroom suites, Blanket box, Wall unit etc. Sundries: Victa Mower, Whipper Snipper, Blower, Homelite Chainsaw, Wheel Barrow, Garden Tools, Hand tools and Garden Ornaments, host of sundries.
Percey and Pat have taken great care of their belongings, everything is in good clean condition.
Directions: Cedar Street is in the eastern end of Goonellabah, on the Hilltop Hotel side of 2LM Building.
See Website for Photos: www.ianweirandson.com.au
Terms: Cash or Cheque Day of Sale Glenn Weir: 0427 299 104
(02) 6621 2768
The noticeboard is a place for residents and community organisations to fnd the latest news from community and social services in The Northern Rivers.
All content is submitted by community organisations. The Northern Rivers Times provides the noticeboard facility and approves submissions before publication.
All Notices submitted must be no longer than 300 WORDS MAX and supplied via email on an attached word, pages or PDF document.
Photos will not be accepted.
AGM’s (annual general meetings) are not part of the community pages and if required to be published you must submit your AGM for the Classifeds Section of the newspaper, an advertising fee will be charged. Call Sharon on 02 6662 6222 for all AGM’s.
The Northern Rivers Times management has the right to refuse and/or not publish any content not following the above guidelines.
All Community Notices must be submitted each week on or before 11am every Monday for the next edition to be published.
ALSTONVILLE
The Alstonville Red Cross branch meets on a monthly basis in Alstonville. As meeting dates sometimes vary, please call Carol on 0424 742 774 for details of our next meeting.
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. Contact: quotaalstonville@gmail.com for more details.
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. Phone 0435 990 919 for more details.
ALSTONVILLE UNITING CHURCHMARKET COMMITTEE
CHRISTMAS MARKET STALLS— AT ALSTONVILLE UNTIING CHURCH -Cnr Bugden Ave., & Main Street- THURSDAY 1st DECEMBER from 9am– 1pm. Feelin’ Festive’ is the theme and along with some CHRISTMAS BAKING you will still fnd a variety of CAKES /SLICES/BISCUITS etc. Also, an iced CHRISTMAS CAKE that you could win in a RAFFLE. This stall will be in the ‘ROOM ‘right next to the Bargain
Shop along with the PRODUCE STALL which once again will have lots of JAMS / PICKLES for sale OUTSIDE you will fnd Christmassy’ type gifts and CRAFT, along with ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES. Lots of BARGAINs on offer as well at the BARGAIN BASEMENT e.g. Adults & Children’s Clothing, kitchenware, plants, linen and lots of Bric-a -Brac .. ALL WELCOME - enq. Ph. 66 280542
CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM The theme of the latest exhibition at Crawford House Museum is the natural world – celebrating the natural environment around us. It features all new works by members of the Lismore Branch of the Embroiderers Guild and showcases creative interpretations of not only the theme but also members’ responses to challenges, workshops and competitions. The exhibition runs until Sunday 29th. January 2023 (closed 24th. December 2022 - 5th January 2023). There are also new books – “Happy 21st Alstonville Plateau Historical Society” and “I Found It in the Pioneer” – and commemorative wineglasses and keyrings for sale, which would make ideal Christmas presents. 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, aphs2477@yahoo.com.au or www. aphsmuseum.org.au.
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.
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 Dyraaba Hall Committee will host a bus trip to Robina Shopping Centre on Saturday 19th November. Cost is $30 and includes morning tea. There will also be raffes. The bus will leave Dyraaba Hall @ 7am, Casino Post Offce @ 7:30am, can also pick in Lismore, Alstonville & Ballina. Bookings & Enquiries phone Veronica on 66671101. All proceeds after expenses will go towards the maintenance of the Hall.
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. Our next Exhibition is at the Ballina Masonic Centre, Cherry Street on 18-20 November, Friday 6-8 and Weekend 9-3. Some great Christmas gift ideas, amazing raffe prizes and a pop-up cafe. It is a fundraising event for Heart to Heart Australia.
For more information - info@bacci.com.au or phone 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. Everyone entering the club must be fully vaccinated. 13 North Ck Rd, Ballina Please call Judy Forsyth (president) on 0407664337. www.ballinabridge.org.au
Don’t be alone this Christmas, come join us for a free Christmas lunch of chicken, ham, Salad and dessert. This is a free event held on Christmas day at the Ballina Anglican Church, on the corner of Norton and Burnet St Ballina @ 12pm to 2pm. Come one come all. This is an alcohol-free event. For all info phone Chris on 04 115 104 30
BALLINA CWA
Ballina CWA Handicraft and Friendship mornings are in full swing on Wednesdays from 9 until 12 in our rooms on River Street next to the RSL, come along with or without your handicraft, have a chat and enjoy morning tea for $3, for more information please ring our Handicraft Offcer Barb 0428116668.
Our CWA meeting days are held on the 3rd Monday of the month commencing at 9am, all most welcome to attend. Mah-jong is being played in our rooms from 12:15 on Wednesday and Thursday, for more Information please ring David 0435323079.
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. Contact President Julie Stephan 0434988770.
BALLINA HOSPITAL AUXILIARY
Christmas Raffes will continue on River Street from Monday 21st November till 2nd December.
Our Christmas Stall will be on Thursday 2nd December outside The Greater Bank on River Street, Ballina. Lots of Cakes, Gifts and Crafts and our Christmas Raffe will be drawn on that date.
We will be wrapping your Christmas Gifts at Ballina Fair for gold coin donation on: Monday 5th December through to Sunday 11th December from 10 till 2 and: Monday 12th December through to Sunday 18th December from 9 till 4
BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB
Has activities every day for Senior Citizens. Monday – Line Dancing 9:30am, Art 1 pm. Tuesday - Line Dancing 9:30am. Wednesday - Tai Chi 8:30am, Bridge 1pm, Ballroom Dancing 6:45pm. Thursday - Yoga 7:30am 4. Line Dancing 9:30am, Indoor Bowls 1pm. Friday – Nothing as yet. Saturday - Bridge 1pm. Contact Bonnie 0414927361
BALLINA TOY LIBRARY
Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina. Open Saturdays 10am – 1pm. Ph. 0411 719 074 for enquiries
FREE COMMUNITY BRUNCH BALLINA
We are now pleased that our hot brunch centre can be held twice a month, the 1st and third Saturday.
Everyone is welcome, so come and enjoy a free sausage sizzle, hot dogs, tea, coffee or juice or just come for a chat. This is held at the Ballina Presbyterian Church Hall, on the corner of Cherry and Crane St 10am to 12pm for more information call Chris on 0411510430
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. For more, contact our President via email at: president-3209990@toastmastersclubs. org or our PR offcer at: vppr-3209990@ toastmastersclubs.org
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). Contact Allan Watt for more
information on 0402 749 582 or email jakknco@bigpond.net.au
Activities this month include a happy hour on Friday 18th, a luncheon on Friday 26th, and a theatre party on Saturday 27th. 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 President Brian on 0432277170.
Casino Lions club now meets each 4th Wed at the RSM.
We welcome newcomers and supporters – come along and join our fun evening. We are upstairs at the Casino RSM Club each Thursday with ‘eyes down ‘at 7pm. We now have ‘Play-Mates’ (electronic tablets) and if you play a Playmate during July, we are giving you one free book. BUT if you prefer to play books, we still sell paper games. Looking forward to seeing new people!! Any questions don’t hesitate to call Jan on 0414625680.
Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am1.30pm. Contact 66626423 DH or casmenshed@live.com.au
The Casino CWA would like to invite everyone to our monthly meeting held the 3rd Thursday of the month. Next meeting is at the Casino Community Centre 9.00am Thursday 17th November. November’s Land Cookery Bake is a Ginger Fluff Sponge. Our Christmas Street Stall will be on the 26th November. Our Christmas Raffe ticket Sales will go on Sale 1st December outside Woolworths. Everyone is welcome. Enquires Margaret Good 66621746, Jennifer Baker
043892060.
CASINO & DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY GROUP INC
Christmas Party - It is approaching that time of the year when we celebrate the end of another successful year through holding our Christmas party. The Christmas Party is on 14 December starting at 11am. Bring a gift to the value of $10. The raffe will be drawn on 14 December at the Christmas party. We are open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 2 pm Wednesdays from 12pm to 4pm and 3rd Saturdays from 9am to 11.30am.
We are in Room 5, upstairs in the School of Arts Building, Walker Street, Casino.
Meetings: 2nd Wednesday of each month, at 10 am.
Closed: mid-December to late January (can open then by appointment).
Memberships: January to December: single $40, family $50 (2 people same address), student $30, pensioner $35, pensioner couple $45.
Address: P.O. Box 586 Casino, NSW, 2470. Phone: 6664 1118.
Email: casinofhg@gmail.com Website https://sites.rootsweb. com/~auscdfhg/index.htm
CASINO GALLERY ART at the CASSINO GALLERY. The Casino Art Group meets here every Saturday 10am - 3pm. The Gallery is also open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10am to 3pm. Interested in promoting YOUR medium? Come to the gallery for information. Cassinoartgallery@gmail.com
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 WEEK 5
MONDAY S. Forrester J. Whittaker & family TUESDAY D. Coleman K. Rowse & K. Evans
WEDNESDAY J. Cornell P. Muntelwit & G. Mannix THURSDAY H. Mofftt & J. Hanna
FRIDAY M.Anderson
Richmond Valley Council staff
CASINO MINI RAIL
Every Sunday 10am to 4pm. Weather permitting. West Street Casino. Phone 0472638044.
CASINO MIXED PROBUS CLUB
Meeting 4th Thursday of the month. For more information call the secretary on 0419886119. New Members most welcome. Call Fran on 0419 886 119 for more information.
Casino R R Country Music Club will be holding their next social upstairs at the Casino RSM Club on Sunday the 20th November from 10.00am - 4.30 pm. Come along and enjoy some great country music and take advantage of the meals offered by the RSM Club. New Artists always welcome. Free entry, raffes and lucky door prizes. More Info contact Carole 0438641500
CASINO SENIOR CITIZENS
All welcome, our activities currently held at Casino RSM, Wednesday Hoy at 1pm. Contact Jan 0414625680
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 12:001:30pm 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.
St Marks Old Time/New Vogue Dance Club @ St Marks Anglican Hall, Barker Street Casino
Saturday 3rd December 2022
Starting time 5:45pm, Dinner 6pm, Dancing 7pm
Dinner Members $10, Visitors $30, Dance only $10 Raffes, Lucky Spots, Supper. Please BYO Drinks & Nibblies. Members to supply non-perishable items for raffes. Welcome to dress in Christmas Theme.
Confrmation of numbers required for catering Please phone Pam & Ron on (02) 66623328 or 0415454470
Beautiful Dance Music, Judy Johnston on Keyboard Thank you, Christmas Blessings.
Beginners are welcome – Casino, every week Weds 5pm. All interested phone Lorraine
0418264489.
Line Dance Intermediate Classes only- Every Monday night
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 Email: deniseg. vip@outlook.com
LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION
Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. For more information phone Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.
THE CASINO & DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
Sun, Mon, Wed and Fri 10am to 2pm. Email casinohistorymuseum@outlook. com for further information. Check us out on Facebook.
THE FAIRY HILL CRAFT GROUP
Fairy Hill Craft group Christmas lunch will be held on Thurs. Dec 1, 11.30 a.m. at St Mark’s Anglican Hall in Barker St. Cost will be approx. $26 for 2- course baked meal + dessert. New, present & past members are most welcome. Please bring a gift (approx. $10 value) for Mrs Claus to distribute. For your booking, please ph.: Sue on 66633233.
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.
The Dyraaba Hall Committee will host a bus trip to Robina Shopping Centre on Saturday 19th November. Cost is $30 and includes morning tea. There will also be raffes. The bus will leave Dyraaba Hall @ 7am, Casino Post Offce @ 7:30am, can also pick in Lismore, Alstonville & Ballina. Bookings & Enquiries phone Veronica on 66671101. All proceeds after expenses will go towards the maintenance of the Hall.
The Channon Disaster Resilience Action Group is holding a ‘Building Resilient Landscapes’ workshop on Saturday 19th of November 9.30am-4pm at the Channon Hall, 8 Mill Street, The Channon. This event aims to support landholders who want to improve their productivity and/ or biodiversity but are facing challenges from extreme weather events such as droughts, fres, fooding and landslides. This is a free event funded by Healthy North Coast.
Our area has been affected by extreme weather events in the last few years. The Channon Resilience Action Group has organised an event to help the community learn strategies to build resilience into our landscapes, to help us maintain and grow our productivity in primary production or have more
fourishing and biodiverse gardens. Topics include: Indigenous knowledge and helping us understand the importance of Indigenous land-care practices in land management; regeneration, native plants and how they improve landscape resilience; Natural Sequence Farming and its role in landscape hydration and erosion mitigation; permaculture and how it can be used to improve land productivity, biodiversity and resilience.
Bookings are essential, register now to secure a place at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ building-resilient-landscapestickets-454652356437. media release article is written by Zoe Dodd.
If there are any questions: Ivy on 0428 026 307
EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon. New members welcome. More info Roz 0427825560
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 for more details.
FREE Family Concert: Come along and enjoy music from the PAST: 50’s, 60’s & Country Music. This is a family concert for all to enjoy, like what people enjoyed many years ago at Evans Head. We have got some great entertainers that everyone will enjoy.
This event will be held upstairs in the main auditorium at the Evans Head RSL Club.
Starting at 5PM on the 29th of December
For more information contact: Max 66628387 or 0418647882
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. Mon-Thurs 9.00am1.00pm or visit website www. fnctabletennis.com.au
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.
who supported our morning tea, cake stall and handicraft stall on Jacaranda Thursday. Winners of the raffe held at the morning tea have been notifed. Also, thanks to everyone who supported the North Coast CWA Group foat in the Jacaranda Parade. We all had fun and did lots of cheering. (And in answer to numerous shouted requests for scones, the rules of the parade say that we can’t give out anything from the trucks!!) We of course do lots of other things as well as making scones- for example, lobbying government on key issues, including focussing this year on the critical need for improvements to maternity services and support in rural and regional Australia.
Members from the Grafton branch and North Coast Group attended the funeral of the late Judy Richardson AM, held on Friday 11th November. Judy was a past CWA president of Grafton Branch and also NSW State President. Our condolences go to her family, rest in peace Judy.
The next meeting of Grafton CWA will now be on Friday 18th November, with morning tea at 9.30am and the meeting starting at 10am. New members are always welcome.
Anne McLellan Publicity OffcerOur next meeting is Thursday 17th November at 10am at the Joan Muir Hall at 194 Turf St Grafton. We will have a Bring and Buy table and a guest speaker whose topic is Growing Bonsai plants. Bring something to share for morning tea if you like.
More information to come regarding our Christmas lunch at the Golf Club on 3rd December. A new group is starting to take form, not as part of our club but some of our members are involved. Started by Scott Baker, the focus is to ensure the future of our Jacaranda trees and to improve their numbers and ongoing health. So, if you would like to be involved in Friends of the Jacarandas and help to promote the planting of new trees and maintenance of existing ones, please come along and learn more: Thursday 15th December at the Grafton District Services Club at 5.30pm.
Everyone is welcome, bring a friend!
Happy Gardening, Jane Rhodes: 0438 593032
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. For more information please contact: Vice President on email Jan Coleman janetlcoleman@gmail.com or Facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/graftontoastmasters
GRAFTON SENIOR CITIZENS
“Senior’s meeting attendance 42, apologies 14.
Guest speaker: Jess Stamper, youth crime prevention, Clarence Police, spoke on crime in general, some declining, some increasing, particularly scams.
Correspondence: In, advice from Westlawn Investments; Out, letter of appreciation to Chris Gulaptis, upon his retirement.
Bus Trips: for 2023 now being considered, with trip to Bellingen, 24 Feb, just on sale.
Christmas luncheon: 2 Dec, bookings close 18 Nov.
Entertainment, Cruisin’ Broadway. Newsletter: latest edition currently being distributed.
Competition winners: J. Campbell; H. Cashel; M. Harper; D. Handley; E. Williams.
Y. Cooney; D. Bailey.
Annual fees: due February.
AGM: 14 March 2023.
Next meeting: 10.30am, 13 December, Guest speaker, Chris Sparks.
Enquiries: Sandra, 6642 7720; or 0417 464 946.”
Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street
Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors
We meet at 10.30 a.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!
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
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.
The Tweed Hospital, it recognises that the new hospital will be located south of Tweed Heads and residents in those areas may be interested in volunteer work when the new hospital opens.
The branch welcomes the opportunity to talk to those who are retired, unemployed or simply
looking for a chance to give back to one of our most critical services – our hospital.
There is a range of jobs that can be performed. The branch runs raffes, a gift shop, fashion parades, jumble sales and luncheons. People with cars are very important to the running of these operations to transport material to the various venues. The branch meetings are held monthly, and the cost of membership is only $5 per year. There are some procedures that must be processed, such as police checks. Full vaccination is required for those volunteers who are working in the hospital. So, the public in the Kingscliff area and surrounds are invited to talk to our volunteers about our UHA branch of The Tweed Hospital. For more information contact John on 0421085985.
The next Kyogle Rotary Bazaar is scheduled for Saturday 26th November with entertainment kicking off at 10am from guitar, violin and vocal duo “Songsation” who perform your favourite classics with soulful sophistication They will be followed from 12 noon by well known “Soulsista” Sheli Nagas who performs original works from the heart covering a diverse range of styles from soul to rock with an easy listening acoustic sound. This Bazaar has over 40 stalls booked in and is a great place to chill out catch up with family or friends listen to some great music check out some of the new stalls and afterwards go up town and see what the rest of the town has to offer.
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. Enquiries Anne 66321851
LINE DANCING CLASSES
Beginners are welcome – Kyogle every week Friday 5.30pm. All interested phone Lorraine 0418264489.
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 For more information 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. For more details Phone Jan on 0427293455.
Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church KYOGLE 29TH NOVEMBER 2022 AT 10.30 AM
ALL FAITHS are invited to join together to raise their voices to sing praises to your Lord. Includes poetry readings and an appearance by the St Brigids Catholic School Choir A light lunch will be provided afterwards.
Please RSVP by 20th November for catering purposes to Maureen 02 66 331 528 or Trish 0439 322 384
The Dyraaba Hall Committee will host a bus trip to Robina Shopping Centre on Saturday 19th November. Cost is $30 and includes morning tea. There will also be raffes. The bus will leave Dyraaba Hall @ 7am, Casino Post Offce @ 7:30am, can also pick in Lismore, Alstonville & Ballina. Bookings & Enquiries phone Veronica on 66671101. All proceeds after expenses will go towards the maintenance of the Hall.
LENNOX HEAD CWA
Handy Craft Mornings on Mondays 9.30am-12noon in the community centre at Lennox Head. Call Jan on 66816150.
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.
Monster Hamper and lots of cheer. Cash or card. M-F: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm; Sat: 8:30 am – 12:00 noon.
CWA LISMORE DAY BRANCH “STILL” WANT “YOU’’ in 2022. Our Branch Meetings are held on the frst Thursday of each month at 9:30am for a 10am start. We want “YOU” to join us for the chance to be involved with an amazing group of friendly, fun, interesting women of all ages. You will make new friends and be involved with wonderful opportunities to contribute to worthwhile Community causes assisting Women and Children. PLEASE THINK ABOUT it and come along as a ‘GUEST’ to see what you think. You will experience for yourself the difference being a CWA Member will bring to yourself and your life. For MORE INFORMATION contact our President ALIISON KELLY on 0428216079. WE ALSO RUN A WEEKLY CRAFT MEETING each Friday from 10am. This provides a great opportunity for you to learn new and wonderful Craft, and once again meet a group of new friends. Tea & Coffee are available for a very small donation. We always have nifty Craft projects underway and love helping anyone new to Craft learn, whilst creating beautiful items in great company. For MORE INFORMATION call HELEN DARGIN on 0438828619. WE SO MUCH LOOK FORWARD to welcoming you.
LENNOX
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. Contact 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. Phone Jan 66876859.
LISMORE ANGLICANS’ ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SHOP DATES: Monday, November 21 to Friday, December 9, 2022 VENUE: 13 Woodlark Street, LISMORE formerly Taking Shape opposite The ARK - street sculpture. Come and buy your Christmas treats. Homemade cakes and puddings, slices, biscuits, scones. Lots of handicraft items. Plants.
EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome
LISMORE
Lismore Base Hospital Auxiliary is holding a” Made from the Heart Craft Fair “ on Saturday 26th November 2022 at 10 till 3pm and Sunday 27th November 2022 10am till 2pm. At Goonellabah Workers Sports Club 202 Oliver Avenue Goonellabah.
We invite you to celebrate the most beautiful time of the year with us. We are looking for Artisans who might like to sell their wares over the two days and must have insurance.
Local Artisans and Auxiliary will have a large variety of their wares available
Eftpos available at most stalls. We are also running a Raffe 1st Prize $500 so if you see us around the Lismore Shopping Centres in our yellow shirts please come up, say hi and buy a ticket. Drawn 10th December.
All money raised goes towards the Lismore Base Hospital Wish List they give to the Auxiliary. Contact Colleen 0401081747
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.
For more information, Tel: 0432575911 visit: www.
lismorecityconcertband.org.au, and our Facebook and Instagram pages.
Embroiderers Group. Meetings are 9.30am-2.30pm 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of
each month, at Crawford House, 10 Wardell Road, Alstonville. This is our new venue where we welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet, share and learn. For more information see our Facebook page ‘Lismore Group – Embroiderers’ Guild NSW’, or simply turn up.
LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY SHED
President: Don Abrahams 0437576837
Vice President: Bob Greig 0404860504
Email: lismoremcs.contact@gmail. com
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 public
• Constructing projects for preschools, hospitals & other organisations
• Assembling fatpacks
• 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 now meets 3rd Wednesday each month, 24pm at Richmond Tweed Regional Library, 6 Centenary Drive Goonellabah, (corner of Oliver Av and Centenary Dve). Contact Bev on 0400326289
Lismore Regional Parkinson’s Support Group will meet on Friday, 18th November at 10 am -12 Noon at Summerland House Farm. Our guest this month will be the talented Parissa Bouas who plans to explore the possibilities and benefts for those living with Parkinson’s of a participating in a choir. The Carers will also have an opportunity to meet and there will be an opportunity for members to share strategies and offer support in a confdential, non-judgemental setting. All member of the Parkinson’s community and family are most welcome to attend. For details, Phone Di: 0423941119”
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 TARGET RIFLE CLUB for .22 calibre rifes, meets Wed nights from 6.30 pm & 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).
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)
Retired? Make new friends, gain knowledge, laugh and learn, enjoy a richer retirement. U3A offers over 30 classes and activities each week. One yearly fee of $50 entitles you to attend all classes/activities of your choice. Interested? Check out our webpage http://www.u3anriv.org.au for course list, times and venues or contact 66227408 Follow us on Facebook.
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 fortnightly at The Sherwood Hotel (75 Molesworth Street Lismore) on Wednesdays at 5.30pm. For more information contact Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.
ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC
Is in its 60th year and meets at the East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.
SPRUNG
Sprung!! is a registered charity and a not-for-proft community organisation that offers Dance, Theatre & Movement workshops and training to people with disabilities. We are currently looking for volunteers to assist our organisation in a number of ways including supporting our Tutors and Disability Support Workers; transcribing; catering; professional skills; technical support and backstage support. Our workshops and performances run in Lismore, Mullumbimby, Tintenbar and Lennox Head expanding to Ballina and the Tweed. Any interested volunteers can reach us here and for general information please contact us on info@sprung.org.au
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. For more details about the club and its activities see the club’s website: https://sarc.org.au/
The Dyraaba Hall Committee will host a bus trip to Robina Shopping Centre on Saturday 19th November. Cost is $30 and includes morning tea. There will also be raffes. The bus will leave Dyraaba Hall @ 7am, Casino Post Offce @ 7:30am, can also pick in Lismore, Alstonville & Ballina. Bookings & Enquiries phone Veronica on 66671101. All proceeds after expenses will go towards the maintenance of the Hall.
MACLEAN VIEW
Month. Visitors and new members are very welcome.
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.
The club meets at the South Tweed Sports Club on the frst Thursday of the month 10.30 for 11am DST with regular guest speakers i.e., magician Jim. For further information please ring President Kathie on 0407 709 629. … Thank you. Freda Shaw: 07 55 41 357
The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Fellowship of First Fleeters will be held on Sunday 27th November 2022 at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina at 10.30am. Our guest speaker will be from the Westpac Helicopter Service. All visitors are very welcome. If you wish to attend, please contact Roddy Jordan on 66875339 or via email hollysbuddy1@bigpond.com
Monthly meetings again, after months of lock down. It will start as usual 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purposes
COMMUNITY
MURWILLUMBAH
Fine art printmakers. Meet at studio space 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding. Prints, gallery, workshops and more! E: cpmmurwillumbah@hotmail. com - T: Peter 0498399640 or Sue 0408493253. Find us on Facebook & Instagram.
COMMUNITY GARDEN
Members and visitors are invited to join the group for activities and gardening tips most Sundays. Time 3-5pm (NSW time, street parking, BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Enquires: phone Bob Johnson (02)66225792.
TWIN TOWNS AND DISTRICT GAREDN CLUB. Twin Towns and District Garden Club meets every second Monday of the month. December is awards and Lunch, for those members to go to Club Tweed Bistro and pay as you go. Meetings Venue: Tweed Heads Civic Centre Auditorium next to Library, Brett Street, Tweed Heads. We offer Raffes, lucky door prize, presidents award, trading tables, cuttings table, Benching of plants and fowers and foral art. Begonia Society, Social Morning teas, bus trips and best of all friendship. Come along, bring a mug to share a coffee or tea with like-minded gardeners. We also have a monthly Guest Speaker.
Guest Speaker: November - Jan Pilgrim from Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers “Backyard Wildlife” See you there, bring a mug. Gwen 0468 872199, (leave a message please).
WOLLONGBAR
The last meeting of the year for the Wollongbar Probus Club is on the 17th Nov. at 10 am at the Alstonville Plateau Bowls Club. This will be followed by our Christmas luncheon at the Alstonville Federal hotel. Come along and enjoy the festivities.
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. Visit the Women’s Giving Circle nrcf.org.au/womensgiving-circle/ on the NRFC website for more information and to join the Women’s Giving Circle. murbahcommunitygardens@gmail. com - follow us on Facebook #MurwillumbahCommunity Garden
POTTSVILLE
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. We will have a new starting time at the end of daylight saving. We play at Black Rocks Sports Field. New members are welcome. For further enquires please ring Jean on 0431606375.
Every Thursday morning 9.30am to 11.30am. Pottsville Community Hall, $5 per session includes morning tea. No joining fees. For enquiries, please call Jan 0431909760.
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
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’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.
NORTHERN
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. For more details email: nrhhh@freelists.org.
Covering Wollongbar to Ocean Shores.
BUSHWALKING
Are you interested in exploring the beauty that our region contains.
The Northern Rivers Bushwalking Club offers a variety of activities for people of all abilities and ages in bushwalking, cycling, kayaking, abseiling, qigong and social interaction. Visit our Facebook page or our website nrbc.org.au for more information.
Meets 2nd Friday of each month at Summerland Farm, Wardell Road, Alstonville. 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.
Northern Rivers District:
Mostly sunny. Slight (30%) chance of a shower in the south, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming west to southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.
Thursday. Sunny. Winds southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h turning south to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening.
Northern Tablelands District:
Mostly sunny. Winds westerly 15 to 20 km/h increasing to 25 to 40 km/h during the morning then turning southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the evening.
Thursday. Sunny. Patches of morning frost in the south. Winds southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h becoming light during the evening.
southern and central ranges. Daytime temperatures near average in the northeast, and well below average elsewhere. Southeast to southwesterly winds near the coast, and west to southwesterly winds inland.
Thursday. Fine apart from the chance of a shower near the coast. Mostly sunny. Early frost patches on the ranges. Daytime temperatures well below average. Southeast to southwesterly winds, fresh along the coast.
Byron Coast:
Winds: Southwesterly 15 to 20 knots tending southeasterly during the day. Seas: Below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres
during the morning. Swell: Southerly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore south of Coffs Harbour during the afternoon. Weather: Mostly sunny. 60% chance of showers. The chance of a storm.
Coffs Coast: Winds: Southwesterly 15 to 20 knots tending southeasterly during the day. Seas: Below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the morning. Swell: Southerly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore south of Coffs Harbour during the afternoon. Weather: Mostly sunny. 60% chance of showers. The chance of a storm.
Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Northwesterly 10 to 15 knots, turning west to southwesterly in the morning. Winds turning east to northeasterly in the afternoon, then turning southwesterly in the late evening. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing below 1 metre during the morning. Swell: Easterly below 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny.
High:5:06am1.0m Low:10:21am0.6m High:4:45pm1.3m Low:11:31pm0.4m
High:5:55am1.2m Low:11:29am0.6m High:5:39pm1.3m
Low:12:10am0.4m High:6:38am1.3m Low:12:27pm0.5m High:6:27pm1.4m
Low:12:45am0.3m High:7:17am1.4m Low:1:18pm0.5m High:7:12pm1.3m
RiseSet
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Lismore driver Nathan Herne has capped an amazing couple of weeks of driving here and overseas with a clean sweep at the Turtle Wax Trans Am at Bathurst at the weekend.
Driving for the Valvoline Team Herne’s GRM Ford Mustang won all three drives to dominate racing.
Just a week earlier the two-time National Trans Am winner made a cameo on the US circuit, contesting the fnal round of the National Trans Am Championship at the Circuit of The Americas in Texas.
Herne drove as part of the Stevens-Miller Racing squad racing with Evan Slater, Tyler Kicera and Rhett Barkau driving a Ford Mustang as part of the factory Howe Racing Enterprises squad at COTA.
While he fnished out of the placings, the 20-year-old Australian showed enough to convince US racing teams he has what it takes to win at that level.
Back in Australia in time to race at Bathurst Herne dominated a competitive feld including All American Driveline driver Ben Grice and Supercheap Auto’s Nash Morris, Garry Rogers Motorsport driver Owen Kelly and Brett Holdsworth’s
Grassroots sporting organisations in eight food affected local government areas (LGAs) will beneft from almost $12 million in NSW Government support to help get community sport back in action.
Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the $12 million program was supporting the repair and reconstruction of 61 community sporting facilities damaged in the FebruaryMarch 2022 foods with grants of between $15,000 and $500,000.
“Grassroots sport plays a critical role in the fabric of our communities, keeping people healthy, active and socially connected,” Mr Henskens said.
“This funding will repair and rebuild community sporting facilities that were damaged by the devastating foods earlier this year, and help communities get back playing the sports they love.”
The funding is the frst tranche of a $55 million NSW Government commitment to help community sport return in food affected communities.
11TH NOVEMBER 2022
Carol Meyer 1, Shirley Atkinson 2, Gail McDonagh 3, Jan Small 4, Lynda Lovett 5, Lorna Simpson 6, Coral Lavelle, Sally Lowry 7, Joy Lowien 9, Jeanette Henwood 10, Bev Lasater 11, Susan Allan 12, Lesley Richie, Shirley Coleman 13, Diana Auret, Susan Scott 15, Ronda Taylor, Valda McLerie 17, June Greenaway 19, Shirley Henry 20, Pauline Bolte, Pauline Kearney 21, Val Heinritz 23, Gladys D’Anna, Jan Henley 24, Margaret Bryant 26, Yvonne Weddup 27, Pam Farrell 28.
Mahjong is played on Friday at 12:30pm at the Ballina Bridge Club North Creek Road.
Enquiries for new players phone Vanessa on 66874181.
WOMENS BOWLS
Wednesday 9/11 results
Winners for the day were: T. Maxwell, J. Cooke & M.
TPS Group Chevrolet Camaro. Herne’s heroics on the track would come as no surprise to North Coast speedway fans who remember his dad Stuart Herne sweeping all before him in dirt track racing.
In fact Nathan debuted in his father’s sport last Boxing Day, driving a 410 Sprintcar in round fve of the Tasmanian Sprint Car Championship in Tasmania.
The voice of speedway Wade Aunger” described “The Hit-man” Stuart Herne as an Australian speedway icon.
“The fve-times National V8 Dirt Modifed titleholder is renowned for his tenacity, his single-minded focus and his penchant for pressing the right side boot frmly to the frewall.”
Nathan has shown similar traits, competing in Trans Am competition for the past four years, securing his frst title at the fnal round of the Trans Am Series at Mount Panorama and backing up for another title earlier this year.
Just before leaving for the States earlier this month, Herne clean swept the opening round of the 2022 S5000 Tasman Series on the Gold Coast.
Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the second round of community sport food funding, totalling $43 million, is now available in 74 LGAs impacted by the February-March and June-July foods.
“Repairing community infrastructure after the devastating food events we’ve seen this year is essential to boosting local economies and jobs, as well as to helping residents get back to a sense of normality, which is one of the most important parts of the recovery process,” Ms Cooke said.
The $43 million Essential Community Sport Assets Program includes two funding streams:
• Stream One - offering $33 million to 74 LGAs with grants of between $150,000 and $1 million available; and • Stream Two – offering $10 million to sporting organisations and organisations that deliver sports programs, with grants of between $15,000 and $500,000 available.
Applications for the Essential Community Sport Assets Program close Friday, 9 December 2022. More information is available on the Offce of Sport website.
Mead def T. Maxwell, C. Haynes & M. Hellyar
Other rink winners were: C. Doyle, R. Skirrey & A. James def L. James, D. Grice & H. Lavelle J. Creighton & D. Skinner def J. Carthew & J. Dwyer Winners were drawn out of the hat.
CASINO SOCIAL GOLF RESULTS 13-11-2022
The winner of social golf on Sunday was Trevis Jenkins with a stableford score of 27 points on a countback from Gary Skennar also 27. The putting trophy went to L.Lawlor with 15 putts and T.Jenkins won the players draw. Nearest To pins: 2nd, G.Skennar. 3rd & 6th, L.Lawlor. 4th, J.Rankin. 5th, R.Ruttley.7th & 18th, M.Gooding. 17th, Vinny.
Next Sunday’s event sponsored by Damien Pacitto Electrical Casino will be a single stroke on the top 11 holes and also the monthly medal play off and visitors are welcome to play with hit off from 6-30am till 7-30am.
RICOCHET CROQUET : N.Barnes N.Poynting 12 d P.Scott 10 D.Scott D.Jones 13 d C.Edlund R.Chapman 9 R.Allen J.Doust 13 d R.Poynting W.Gilmore 11 J.Hannigan 17 d
B.Wellings 14 D.Scott M.Russell 19 d M.Field N.Poynting 15 D.Jones 11 d J.Doust 8 W.Gilmore R.Poynting 14 d B.Wellings C.Edlund 10
TOURNAMENTS :
Northern Rivers Area Ricochet Championships: Handicap Singles : N.Barnes 1st, P. Scott 2nd, Jim Hannigan 3rd, Robbie Allen 4th.
Handicap Doubles : B.Wellings C.Edlud 1st, R.Allen N.Barnes 2nd, J.Johnston S.Daley 3rd, P.Scott J.Hannigan 4th.
Level Play Singles : D.Scott 1st, M.Hughes 2nd, J.OBrien 3rd, R.Hughes 4th.
Crystal Cup Doubles : R.Chapman D.Scott 1st, S.Daley M.Hughes 2nd,
J.OBrien R.Hughes 3rd. Association Croquet New Zealand v Victoria NZ 11games / 301 def Victoria 1game / 112 Association Croquet: Come & Try Day 24th November 8.45am.
Cherry Street Croquet Grounds Ballina
All welcome.
Coaches in attendance : Ray Chapman, David Scott, Gloria Drew.
All new players very welcome. 0439 240 251
CORAKI VETERANS GOLF RESULTS
THURSDAY 10/11/22
A feld of 49 golfers played an 18 hole stableford event for Christmas hams, club handicap winner G Brown, vets winner R Black, luckey card draw ham D Vagne, 2nd T Woods , 3rd R Gacioppo, B Micheal, S McDonough, T Foster, J Mather, K Lloyd, B McDonald S Toms, B Kennedy, J Nilsson, R Thorne, B Waterson, L Bonner, M Perkins.
Nearest Pins 3rd/12th S Ormond, 6th/15th G
Gibson. Table card draw M Fairfull.
This Thursday will be an 18 hole single stableford commencing with a shot gun start at 8.30am. The Thursday 24/11/22 will be our annual presentation day and christmass party commencing at 9.00am with a shot gun start for nine holes only.
AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING. Max
CLUB RESULTS
A Grade singles results: Rocco 25 def G Finnigan 14 N Scandrett 25 def M Prior 7 P Russell 25 def S Gregory 18 J Olley 25 def L Maslen 14 S Fields 25 def GT Scotcher 16
A Grade Pairs: J Essex, A Gaggin 32 def R McInnes, G Pollard 14 B Grade Pairs
G Donnelly, B Stevens 25 def J Bancroft, A Carrall 16
Social results
J Burbidge, N Harding 21 def T Alcorn, M Morrissey 20. P Campbell, T Prior 32 def R Mohr, R Prior 18
Springtime Triples - Round 7 - Final played 09-11-22
Skips only - K. Robson defeated J. Fernance. E. Gollan defeated P. Freeman. A. Peel defeated T. Cselka. K. Keevers Bye. Social Bowls - 09-1122 - Winners - B. Parkes, G. Marczan, A. Viney, K. Keevers.
Congratulations to Beverley Montague & Sue Downs, from our Club, on winning the Region 1 State Pairs Championship for 2022 at South West Rocks.
A defant half century from opener Beau Sevil has put Brothers in a sound position against Souths/Westlawn at Ellem Oval on Saturday.
Sevil was dismissed for bowled by Souths skipper Dylan Cleaver for 54, just before a violent storm halted play for the day, with Brothers at 4-107.
It was a steady performance from the Brethren, who have got their season back on track after a disastrous season opener, when they were bowled out for 31.
A win against Tucabia last game and a solid effort against Souths/Westlawn on Saturday shows the team is back to its usual combative form.
The club will enjoy the return of representative batsman Mick Summers, who plundered 88 from Tucabia’s topline attack last game.
He backed with 29 in a grinding partnership with Sevil, but with both dismissed just before the rain came, it will be up to the lower order to put the polish on the promising start.
Souths welcomed a
returning player also, with fast bowling all rounder Matt Dalton turning out for a rare game.
Dalton, who has led the Souths attack for the past few seasons, said he was available play this game and a few weekends over the Christmas period.
He took the vital wicket of Summers, caught behind for 44 from 13 overs.
On Saturday Souths/ Westlawn will need to capitalise on its late successes on day one and wrap up the innings before it progresses too far.
Souths have a couple of batters in good form with Anthony Dickson and Mick Fletcher scoring half centuries so far this season.
The merger of the two clubs has also attracted top order batter Simon Wilson to the fold.
He and skipper Dylan Cleaver, plus the two form players mentioned, will need to fre if the team is to record its frst win this season.
By Tim HowardClarence Valley premier league cricket competition leader GDSC Easts was just fve runs away from securing frst innings points when the savage storm that decimated parts of the Clarence Valley on Saturday afternoon ended play.
Easts, inspired by last-game century maker Aaron Macfadyen, 4/16 and left-arm spinner David Bruton-Duroux, 4/3, routed premiers Tucabia Copmanhurst for 53 at Lower Fisher Park Turf.
Macfadyen did the early damage, dismissing opener Ted Niland and the the dangerous Matt Dougherty in his frst two overs before Tucabia had scored.
Easts ratcheted up the pressure with skipper Shannon Connor bowling fve consecutive maidens and Macadyen conceding a lone boundary in his frst six.
They were rewarded with two more wickets to Macfadyen to have Tucabia on the rack at 4/13.
Veterans Bob McKenzie and Andrew Buchanan dug in and took the score to 30, when Connor turned to his spinner BrutonDuroux.
It was a devastating move. He took two wickets in his frst over and two more in
his third, while Connor trapped McKenzie in front for 12, ensuring the scoring ground to a halt.
The spinner extracted plenty of bounce and turn, which made his straight ball lethal, as Chris Adamson learned when he was bowled frst ball by a faster one skidding between bat and pad.
Five wickets had fallen for no runs and it was left to skipper Brad Chard, 9, and number 11, Jake Chevalley, 14no, to get the score past the half century.
The pair swung hard at anything loose and put together the best partnership of the game.
With black clouds rolling in Easts openers Tom Gerrard and Connor headed out to bat. It’s a familiar scenario for the competition leaders, which has two wins from two game in this rain-interrupted season.
They didn’t waste this opportunity either with Connor hitting a couple of boundaries in a six-ball 9 and Macfadyen showing continued good form, belting 23 from 13 balls with fve fours.
At the other end Gerrard dropped anchor and was 9no and Ted Lobsey was 3 from 19 balls when the rain came.
While Easts should score the runs for a frst innings result next week, the turning wicket provides opportunities for an outright result with a full day’s play.
If Easts get more than 50 in front, the pressure will be on Tucabia to limit the damage.
Tucabia will need early wickets and concede only a narrow lead.
If they can get Easts chasing any more than 100 for an outright result, they would have a great chance to pull something out of the fre.
