Patients in Northern NSW continued to receive high quality care throughout the busy winter period, amid sustained high demand for emergency care.
The latest quarterly BHI fgures reveal of the 53,078 people attended NNSWLHD hospital Emergency Departments
The latest Bureau of Health Information Healthcare Quarterly report (July – September 2022) captures a challenging period for Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD), as winter illnesses and ongoing furloughing of staff continued to place pressure on the health system.
Across the District, there were 53,078 emergency department attendances during the quarter, 24,874 of all those coming in for treatment were for noncritical conditions.
The report also showed more than seven in 10 patients (71.4 per cent) starting treatment on time, which is better than the NSW state average of 65.6 per cent.
More than eight in 10 patients (81.5 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark, also signifcantly better than the state average (74.8 per cent).
The majority of patients (71.9 per cent) left the ED within four hours, also better than the NSW average (57.4 per cent).
NNSWLHD Chief Executive Wayne Jones praised the work of health staff who continued to deliver compassionate and high quality patient care across the region.
“All throughout this year, we have seen our colleagues rally to support each other and
their patients through the challenges of the pandemic and natural disasters, both within our hospital walls and in the community,” Mr Jones said.
“I take this opportunity to thank our amazing staff who deliver the best care to our patients every day.”
A total of 3,804 elective surgeries were performed across the region, almost back to pre-pandemic levels.
“Thanks to ongoing partnerships with private hospitals and additional surgical theatre lists in our hospitals, we are seeing the numbers of patients on waiting lists continue to trend downwards over the previous six months,” Mr Jones said.
Any patients who feel their condition has deteriorated while waiting for their procedure are encouraged to contact their treating doctor for a clinical review and they can be placed in a higher urgency category if required.
Between mid-2012 and mid-2022 NNSWLHD increased its workforce by an additional 1,127 full time equivalent staff - an increase of 29.9 per cent including 223 more doctors, 374 more nurses
and midwives, and 132 more allied health staff.
The 2022-23 budget for Northern NSW Local Health District is over $985 million, an increase of more than $40 million, or 4.3 per cent more, on the previous year’s budget.
The NSW Government is investing a record $33 billion in health as part of the 2022-23 NSW Budget, including almost $900 million for the ongoing COVID-19 response.
The NSW Government also announced the largest workforce boost in the nation’s history in the 2022-23 Budget with a $4.5 billion investment over four years for 10,148 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff to hospitals and health services across NSW.
INDIVIDUAL HOSPITAL RESULTS BALLINA DISTRICT HOSPITAL had 4,406 ED attendances during the quarter. The majority of patients (67 per cent) started their treatment on time. More than seven in 10 patients (77.6 per cent) left the ED within four hours.
More than eight in 10 patients (83.8 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute
benchmark.
BYRON CENTRAL HOSPITAL had 5,132 ED attendances and nearly all patients (92 per cent) started their treatment on time, which is far better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (76.6 percent). Nearly all patients (94 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark, also better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (92.4 per cent). Almost eight in 10 patients (79.4 per cent) left the ED within four hours of arriving, also above the average for comparable hospitals in NSW (78.7 per cent).
CASINO & DISTRICT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL had 3,363 ED attendances in the quarter. The vast majority of patients (82.6 per cent) left the ED within four hours of arriving, which is better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (78.7 per cent). Almost all patients (96.7 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark, also better than the average for
comparable hospitals in NSW (92.4 per cent).
GRAFTON BASE HOSPITAL had 6,803 ED attendances during this quarter. The majority of patients (67 per cent) started treatment on time. Seven in 10 patients (71.6 per cent) left the ED within four hours, above the average for comparable hospitals in NSW (60.9 per cent). More than eight in 10 patients (87.7 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark, which is also better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (82.1 per cent).
LISMORE BASE HOSPITAL had 9,563 ED attendances during the quarter. The majority of patients (59.9 percent) started treatment on time, and more than half of all patients (53.7 percent) left the ED within four hours, in line with the NSW average for hospitals of a similar size (53 per cent). More than 8 in 10 patients (81.1 percent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark, which is better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (72.9 per cent).
MACLEAN DISTRICT HOSPITAL had 3,922 ED attendances during the quarter. More than eight in 10 patients (81.8 per cent) started their treatment on time, above the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (76.6 percent). Almost nine in 10 patients (87.4 per cent) left the ED within four hours, which is also better than the average for comparable hospitals in NSW (78.7 per cent). Nearly all patients (91.5 per cent)
were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark, which is in line with the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (92.4 per cent).
MURWILLUMBAH DISTRICT HOSPITAL had 4,459 ED attendances during the quarter. The majority of patients (78 per cent) started their treatment on time, which is above the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (66.3 per cent). More than eight in 10 patients (82.4 per cent) left the ED within four hours, signifcantly better than the average for comparable hospitals in NSW (60.9 per cent). Almost all patients (92.4 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark, which is also better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (82.1 per cent).
THE TWEED HOSPITAL had 13,306 ED attendances during the quarter. More than seven in 10 patients (71.5 per cent) started their treatment on time, which is above the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (62.8 per cent). Almost seven in 10 patients (66.9 per cent) left the ED within four hours, which is better than the average for comparable hospitals in NSW (53 per cent). More than seven in 10 patients (71.1 percent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark, which is in line with the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (72.9 per cent).
In a surprise turn-up for the (rental) books, Byron Bay’s once tight, almost impossible rental market of six months ago is now teeming with properties available for permanent rent.
A quick search of a popular real estate website shows 114 properties for lease in or around Byron Bay, including acreage at Ewingsdale, beachfront at Broken Head, resort living at Tyagarah, classic beach shacks at Brunswick Heads to a standard 3bdrm townhouse in Byron, with prices ranging from $500pw up to $6000pw.
Many of the homes on offer come fullyfurnished in the now almost ‘standard’ whitewash-timber-cane décor found in many holiday lets in the region.
And curiously, these premium homes are being listed in the peak
Christmas holiday/ summer season.
Deeann Montgomery of Harcourts Northern Rivers told The Northern Rivers Times she’s noticed fewer numbers at inspections – and is receiving fewer applications for
properties to lease.
“I feel we’re not getting the numbers we were getting,” she said.
Ms Montgomery noted the shifting trend whereby property investors are now chasing permanent, 12-month leases on
properties rather than the high yielding holiday-let dollar.
It could be visitor demand is softening in the pricey Byron Bay STRA market as costs of living and fuel charges soar, homeowners have incurred multiple and
costly interest rate rises, and people are simply spending less this holiday season.
‘It’s going from one extreme to the other,’ Deeann Montgomery said.
Owners are also reportedly tiring of the wear and tear on a property from highturnover holiday stays, mounting cleaning costs and the many incidental charges that come with STRA.
The clear increase in permanent rentals in Byron Bay now could also signal that Byron Shire Council’s new 90day cap on Short Term Rental Accommodation is having its desired effect, with owners reverting to the permanent rental market for steady, year- ‘round yields.
Owner of Byron Property Sales, Jeremy Bennett, agreed there’s ‘defnitely more opportunities now for renters’ at various price
points in the market but believes demand is still solid.
“Yes, there are defnitely renters out there, demand is still there, from your high-end renter to more affordable options,” Jeremy Bennett, owner Byron Property Sales said.
“It’s the most beautiful place in the world, the community and the lifestyle keep bringing people here,” he added.
Himself born and raised in Byron Bay, Jeremy Bennett said after two ‘crazy years’ brought by the Covid-19 pandemic and people’s need to get out of the big cities, Byron Bay – like other hot property markets in Australia - is now seeing an inevitable correction in both the sales and rental markets.
“By next year, it’ll be back to normal,” Jeremy Bennett, owner Byron Property Sales said.
A below-strength South Services team has plunged from second spot on the CRCA Premier League ladder to last place after a heavy defeat at the hands of Brothers.
Life still goes on despite having experienced one of Australia’s worst foods earlier in the year.
Christmas is just around the corner and our younger son, my baby, celebrated his 18th birthday.
I want to give tribute to the kids who have gone through this year’s ordeals as they make sense of how their normal world has been turned upside down.
My son had to deal with losing many of his possessions, although his desktop computer seemed to have escaped harm, and struggling with keeping up on his Year 12 subjects as the school closed for a couple of weeks playing host to many of the food victims as an evacuation centre.
On top of this, he was School Captain and represented his region with great dignity at the NSW Governor’s morning tea in Sydney, only weeks after the food.
A friend of mine teaches Scripture at the local primary school where every
child would have been affected by the food in one way or another.
She told me the children look out for each other. While they have been through so much for their tender years, they are keen to join in when she asks if they would like to pray for people.
And pray they do, remembering those who continue to need help.
At my son’s formal, I couldn’t go to the dinner as I had Covid, but I watched them all arrive in their fnery, while wearing a mask.
I wondered what the world was going to present to these kids that could possibly knock them off their feet.
As many of these young people have already been thrown to the ground, and yet they have gotten themselves up, dusted themselves off and continue on.
If character is developed by diffcult circumstances, the young people of the Northern Rivers are about to unleash barrel fulls onto the world.
Missing its three Cleavers: skipper Dylan, batter Brendan and spinner Chris, Souths could not keep a rampant Brethren batting line up in check.
Led by a masterful 79 from Mick Summers and twin knocks of 41 from Jake Kroehnert and Jamie Firth, Brothers piled on 7/203 in their 40 overs.
South’s opening bowler Matt Dalton was easily the pick of the attack with 4/23 from eight overs.
In reply Souths, a player short, were behind in the run rate and lost
wickets to be bowled out for 149 in the 33rd over.
Anthony Dickson continued his run of form with a punishing 60 and Brenden Cotten scored 21.
Souths were in the hunt while Dickson and Cotten were batting, but Summers, bowling fourth change, completed a fne double to take 3/21 from eight overs.
Luke Shipman was also
It was a costly loss for Souths which had been in second spot on the ladder for most of the season.
But it has been a stunning return to form for Brothers, who have struggled for consistency so far this season.
At Ulmarra wet weather washed out the much anticipated
clash with competition leaders GDSC Easts and the current premiership holders.
Despite no play, results from the weekend should see changes on the competition table.
Tucabia and Brothers should go to 21 points, behind Easts on 36. Souths on 18 points have hit the bottom of the ladder.
LISMORE MP Janelle Saffin is encouraging eligible businesses or co-operatives to apply for grants under the NSW Government’s $22-million Supply Chain Support Program.
Ms Saffin says the new program is aimed at supporting the recovery of processing businesses within the primary industry supply chains that were impacted by the February and March 2022 floods (AGRN 1012).
“Funding is available for businesses or cooperatives that sustained
direct flood damage or were indirectly impacted by disruptions to their supply chains,” Ms Saffin says.
“I’m aware that there was widespread and prolonged disruption to supply chains because of the floods so I’m glad this has been recognised with a program co-funded by the Australian and NSW governments.”
Grant amounts range from $100,000 and $2million with applications closing on 20 January 2023.
Eligible applicants must be a business or co-operative that is a first receiver and processor in the supply or value chain of the aquaculture
(including fisheries), horticulture (blueberries, macadamias, pecans, vegetables, tea tree) or agriculture (beef, dairy, soybeans, sugarcane, intensive livestock) industries.
For more information, go to https://www.nsw. gov.au/grants-andfunding/supply-chainsupport-program
For support, please contact the Department of Regional NSW by phoning 1300 679 673 or emailing floods. recovery@regional.nsw. gov.au
Meet the Northern Rivers’ Sunglasses King.
For thirty years Jon Laurenson has brought to the country from his base in Byron Bay, the nation’s leading eyewear and on-trend brands.
Think Arnette of the Nineties, Electric in the Noughties, international eyewear giant Luxottica and today his own ground-breaking label Childe, the frst environmentally-friendly eyewear product designed and sold in Australia.
Found in boutiques across the Northern Rivers - from Bangalow to Minnie Water!Childe is the realisation of Jon’s defning ethos that ‘nature is future/ future is nature,’ and as he told The Northern Rivers Times, a desire to do more and better for the planet.
“Around 2018, I saw
Italy, looked at what they were doing and what the options were and asked them to make a sustainable product out of plant-based materials. Recycling wasn’t really a thing in Italy at that point but I was certain in two years’ time, everyone would want them ..”
Two years on and Childe has heralded in a new era of eco-
conscious’ customer.
And it seems a more ‘clean-green’ product was warranted, with reportedly one billion plastic sunglasses going into global landfll each year. As Jon Laurenson explains, Childe eyewear is made from plants and science not plastics and toxins.
“The hand-made Bio Acetate Eyewear
M49 Bio-Acetate made from organic compounds of wood and cotton pulp fbres. This premium organic M49 bio-acetate is built to last a lifetime as eyewear but is also 100% bio-degradable under controlled industrial composting conditions of International standard ISO 14855, “Our Plant Based Childe Wilde Sunglasses frames are made from a plant based grilamid polymer made from 61% renewable resources. This polymer is petrochemical free and dramatically reduces carbon emissions in the production process as opposed to petroleumbased products,” he said.
Jon Laurenson admits ‘eco-options’ in eyewear are limited and production is more costly, but now in its fourth year, Childe’s product and philosophy make it worth the investment - for Jon and business partner Tim Okkerse, and hopefully
“The challenge is educating the consumer on the value of that investment, because ultimately, they are the one who has to foot the bill at the counter in the form of a higher RRP. I think we have found a sweet spot that balances value and investment and that really comes down to the quality. When it comes to our materials we are always on the hunt for new and innovative sustainable options like the plant-based lenses we introduced this year,” Jon Laurenson said.
The Childe logo features the serpent with its tail in its mouth; a symbol of infnity or something continually being reborn from itself. It’s apt, as Childe eyewear continues to evolve and grow, as do sustainable technologies and customer appetite for eco-eyewear that’s still chic.
“I wanted to make a really cool, fun fashion brand that was eco-sensitive
but real, not dulled down, that refected and supported local Byron communities, artists, musicians and entrepreneurs. It looks and feels like a premium fashion product, but it’s made from ecosensensitive materials, so it has it all.” Jon Laurenson said.
“I wanted to create a unique product and change the way people make and buy their sunglasses, and for it to be a quality product, that will eventually go global,” he added.
Childe eyewear might also be the ultimate manifestation of a South Fremantle astrologer’s chart reading long ago, when Jon Laurenson was a Perth teen making and selling boomerangs with locals; when it got to the ‘career’ part, the then-14-year-old Laurenson’s reading ‘went off the charts’ with the astrologist telling him, aptly, ‘Your future’s so bright, you’re gonna wear shades ..”
Former Grafton cricket umpire and school teacher Darren Goodger has reached rarified air in NSW Premier Cricket.
Goodger, or Goodge as he is known to his many friends and colleagues, has become one of only three umpires to have stood in 300 first-grade matches in the Sydney competition.
He reached the milestone in Saturday’s limited-overs fixture between Campbelltown Camden and St George at Raby Oval.
North Coast cricketers and cricketing officials will remember Goodger for his officiating on the field in local and representative cricket during the 1990s as well as his work behind the scenes in Clarence Valley and North Coast sport.
Since making his first grade debut at North Sydney Oval in February 2000 Goodger has become a widely respected figure on the Premier Cricket scene.
Twelve times he has collected the ‘firstgrade umpire of the year’ award as well as receiving the top honour for any member of the NSW Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association – the George Borwick Memorial Award – a record seven times.
Goodger has umpired in several first-grade Limited-Overs and Belvidere Cup finals, as well having officiated three domestic T20 fixtures, six One-Day
Domestic matches and one unforgettable first-class debut during his time on the Cricket Australia Umpire Development Panel.
Goodger’s first and only Sheffield Shield game was doubly memorable.
“It was November 2007 and it was at the SCG. New South Wales and Tasmania.
“(Life Member of Cricket NSW) John McMahon from Lismore was a real mentor for me and he was there for the game and the presentation of my First Class shirt which was made by Bob Horsell, who was a Chairman here at the time, but also a Cricket Australia board director,” Goodger said.
“Now the other reason John was at the ground was that my only Shield match was the First Class debut of (the late) Phillip Hughes and I knew the Hughes family being from Macksville, and me from Grafton, I knew them well.”
“The difference is I stopped there and he went on to play for Australia.”
As the Head of Competitions and Officiating at Cricket NSW, Goodger is responsible for ensuring every fixture of both the NSW Premier Cricket and Sydney Shires competition has an appointed umpire, a task which Goodger achieves week-in-week-out.
Amongst a long list of personal achievements, Goodger has played a part in the development of many umpires now standing at a national and international level, such as Gerard Abood, former NSW Blues player Rod Tucker, Greg Davidson, Tony Wilds and Simon Lightbody.
Chief of cricket performance Greg Mail, said this milestone was another well-deserved achievement for a popular official.
“He [Goodger] regularly averages 4.8+/5 from the first-grade
captains in Sydney, an unashamedly group of hard markers,” Mail said.
“When you add that to [Goodger’s] achievements in umpiring Shield and One-Day Domestic cricket you start to get a picture of the magnitude of his contribution to umpiring and to cricket in general.”
Mail said Goodger’s impact extends well beyond his on-field accomplishments.
“If you ask any of our umpiring contingent, Goodge’s contribution has been greater off the field than on it,” he said.
“His mentoring and coaching of a generation (or two) of umpires is where his real impact is.
“A born teacher and leader, the fact that NSW currently represent 50% of the Elite panels in Australian Cricket Umpiring is testament to his influence.
“The fact that he remains unsatisfied with 50% is testament to his drive for excellence.”
By SAMANTHA ELLEYRailway sleepers are truly the ugly ducklings in the sustainability world.
The long grey dried out looking logs have a secret and Julian Simpson of Off The Rails has discovered it and with his business is determined to save as many of them as possible from ending up in landfll.
The secret is that only millimetres below the tired and dull surface of the sleeper is some of the most beautiful timber, that when cleaned up, will grace any high end accommodation, or can make a home that more stunning.
And Julian’s efforts are getting noticed.
A fnalist in this year’s Northern Rivers 2022 Regional Business Awards for sustainability Julian has been running his timber business for nearly six years.
“It is a business that sources reclaimed timber mainly from railway lines and road bridges,” he said.
“We repurpose that timber to save the
environmental impact and sell it to landscapers and builders and others interested in reclaimed timber.”
From a background of structural landscaping Julian realised the sleepers were impossible to fnd.
“I had friends working on the railway lines, so I had good connections so the business took off from there,” he said.
“At the moment the stretch of line I source from is in Narrabri to North Star.”
The sleepers became disused when they needed replacing, according to Julian, but today they are being upgraded to concrete, hence the supply of unused timber that Julian pays market price for.
“At the moment I have the most railway sleepers on the east coast of Australia,” he said.
“I’ve got 30,000 out west, 100 semi-trailer loads.”
The sleepers are made from all Australian hardwoods, as they generally source it from the closest to where they built the railway lines.
“The section I have a lot of it is Pilliga red
ironbark, as the Pilliga State Forest is where it came from,” said Julian.
“Unfortunately, the way we’ve gone with our history, a lot of the old growth forest has been wiped out from people doing this very thing.
“I am there repurposing the timber that’s saving forests getting milked even more and giving them a chance
and retaining (walls),” he said.
timber anywhere,” he said.
to regenerate and also protecting the native fora and fauna.”
The repurposed timber has been used from sawdust for horse stables, through to decking and feature
walls, furniture, basins for bathrooms, foating shelving, and cabinetry.
Julian said it can be used for anything.
“The most popular is probably just garden beds for vege patches
“The most unique one I’ve seen is a waterfall edge vanity, so we mill them back into 25ml boards and laminate together like a big table and cut them into sections and make it with an antique mirror on the front of it.”
Julian will continue to source sleepers and when they run out, he will look at fallen trees and repurposing old houses and barns.
“I am open to fnding
“If I can reuse it, I will reuse it.
“I want unique pieces of timber, with a bit of character and history.
“I’ve got some bridge timbers that have been on a bridge since 1918 and that’s from a tree that’s 200 years old.”
Julian has seen demand for his timber grow in the most recent years.
“A few factors that has seen the increase,” he said.
“Firstly, we lost a third
of Australia’s forest three years ago in the fres, then we had the Covid building boom, then we had the foods, so this region has been absolutely peppered.
“Anything timber around here, unfortunately the price has gone up as we lost a few mills as well in fres and foods.
“Trying to source any timber, I will grab anything I can as there is a defnitely a huge need up here.”
By securing his deal at
Narrabri, Julian knows he has made a dent in keeping so much timber out of landfll.
“The biggest point of stopping wood going to landfll, is replacing it,” he said.
“If you’ve got 100 semi-trailers going to landfll and there’s sales for 100 semi-trailer loads, where is it coming from?
“It’s going to come from state forests and national parks and places like that.
“It’s going to reduce the natural environment and then it impacts the fora and fauna and messes up the environment.”
Julian was pleased to be nominated as a fnalist for the Northern Rivers 2022 Regional Business Awards, despite not winning the category of sustainability.
“That was really nice to be made a fnalist in that,” he said.
“It shows the support of the region that we got recognised for that.”
Trail bike enthusiasts get ready: construction of the Tweed’s frst mountain bike track recently commenced at Uki in the Tweed Valley.
Tweed Shire Council, in partnership with Tweed Valley Mountain Bike Riders, has engaged outdoor trail design and construction specialists Trailworx to build more than 8.5 km of mountain bike trails on Councilowned operational land adjacent to the Uki Wastewater Treatment Plant on Smiths Creek Road.
Work on the track began in late November and is expected to take about 6 months to complete, with the park projected to be opened to the public in mid-2023, weather permitting.
The project includes:
• 8 trails (2 climbing and 6 descending trails) covering more than 8.5 km, including green (beginner) and blue (intermediate) trails, and a black diamond level trail - all constructed to International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) trail construction standards
• construction of a pump track/skills park
• car parking for up to 10 vehicles
• staging or entry area including fencing and associated works
• trail signage including trail markers, directional signage, park map and rules
• necessary rehabilitation works and planting.
The project will include the removal of some trees (mostly camphor laurel regrowth) and earthworks for construction of the trails. Once the track is completed, revegetation planting will take place.
Council’s Manager Parks and Active Communities Murray Smith was thrilled to see the project fnally underway.
“The mountain bike community has long
been calling for a dedicated track of this kind and we are excited to be able to deliver,” Mr Smith said.
“The Uki Mountain Bike Park will be the frst facility of its kind in the Tweed and will provide a variety of mountain bike riding options for people of all ages and experience.”
Tweed Valley Mountain Bike Riders Club president Hugh Flower, whose club members contributed to the establishment of the park, said it was great to fnally see a mountain bike facility in the Tweed.
“Currently, mountain bike enthusiasts in the Tweed have to travel some distance – to Kyogle, Gold Coast or further south – to get their biking fx. This track, set in the heart of the spectacular Tweed Valley, is going to be a real drawcard for the local biking and broader community,” Mr Flower said.
“The facility has been developed with the community in mind,
to progress new and younger riders in the area, and giving kids and youth more recreational opportunities.
“The club will also undertake bush regeneration to rehabilitate the land back to its natural state and will host community tree planting days, aiming to offset the project’s carbon footprint.”
some construction noise from small earth moving equipment expected.
However, construction
2023.
The project has been made possible thanks to a $430,000 grant
Works will be undertaken from Monday to Saturday, between 7 am and 5 pm, with
will pause during the Christmas and New Year period and resume on approximately 9 January
awarded through the NSW Offce of Sport –Regional Sports Facility Fund 2021-22.
Ulmarra created several hours of Christmas Magic at the weekend for its annual festive season celebration.
With rain clouds threatening to north and south the little village on the banks of the mighty Clarence created a bubble of fne weather for the second Ulmarra Christmas Magic celebration.
While the threat of some wet weather might have kept the faint hearted at bay, for those who kept the faith they were treated to some outstanding street entertainment.
Grafton The Voice contestant Rachael Noakes sang upbeat versions of popular Christmas carols alternating with the combined voice of
the Wooli Beach and Clarence Valley Conservatorium choirs singing more traditional versions.
Most shop owners kept their stores trading well into the evening with many setting up footpath displays of their wares.
And Santa was on hand to gather late Christmas
wishes from the true believers.
An event organiser and local gallery owner Steve Pickering said wet weather had made the event touch and go.
“We had been tossing up whether to go ahead with it and when it appeared the rain had magically stayed away, I
got onto social media to let people know it was still on,” he said.
Mr Pickering said the success of the frst Ulmarra Christmas Magic celebration last year had encouraged businesses to keep it going, even though the village reconstruction had cut parking spaces
and left the CBD looking less than its best.
“We want to make it annual event, so it has to be on every year, whatever happens,” he said.
“Ulmarra might not look the best this time, but we can say, hey, it’s been pretty good, imagine what it’s going to be like next year.”
But not every business was happy with the timing of the CBD and riverfront upgrade.
“Why did they have to start it just before Christmas?” one disgruntled local said.
“They could have started it at the end of January when all the shops were winding down after the holidays.”
Brides-to-be, start your engines! The Tweed Wedding Trail is open for exploring early into the new year with more than a hundred venues, suppliers, and all the latest wedding paraphernalia on show across the Tweed for budding brides, their besties and of course their proud mums!
Billed as “the largest moving wedding fair in our region,” the Tweed Wedding Trail features along its way some of the nation’s most sought-after wedding venues including waterfront Ancora at Tweed Heads, Babalou at Kingscliff, Bramblewood at Bilambil, Farm & Co Weddings at Cudgera, Fins at Plantation House in Duranbah, Osteria in Casuarina, and Summergrove Estate in Carool plus more.
Everything and everyone from the Celebrant to Plant Décor options; Entertainment and Floristry to Hair and MakeUp; Venue Hire to
Explore the trail of wedding options of the Tweed
Lighting, Photography, Videography and Stationery, and of course the all-important Cake, will be on show. It’s also a chance to meet the expert minds behind getting these crucial elements right.
And in 2022, the vogue wedding is also about the Stylist, Wellness
Advice, Tipi Hire, Mobile Cocktails or Dessert carts, Petsitting options, Candles, and unique Guest Transport (it is a Northern Rivers wedding after all!)
“Come along on the day and travel to each venue at your own pace and see spectacular set ups and meet incredible industry
professionals,” organisers of the Tweed Wedding Trail invite.
Venues and operators will receive guests between 11am and 4pm on Sunday, January 15.
To register interest in attending, and to receive the vital Tweed Wedding Trail map, visit the event’s Facebook page.
Wombats in Prince St
Grafton residents will need to get used to at least two “wombats” turning up on the main drag this month.
Clarence Valley Council has funding from Transport for NSW, to convert two existing pedestrian crossings on Prince Street between Pound and Fitzroy streets to wombat crossings this week.
.A wombat crossing is a pedestrian crossing on a raised fat-top platform. They create a more pedestrianfriendly environment by slowing traffc and providing greater visibility of pedestrians
for approaching motorists.
Work should be completed by Wednesday.
The Maclean CBD will be abuzz on Friday with late night shopping from 5.30pm to 8pm. Stalls for the event are already at capacity with food vendors, markets stalls, lots of bargains, free raffe, ham wheel, carols, live music and, of course, a visit from Santa!
For more information check out the Maclean District Business Chamber Facebook page.
The program is all locked in. There will be something for everyone to enjoy. The pumpkins are still fattening, enjoying the sun and dryer weather. The growers well they are pacing around like expectant fathers. Checking the shade making sure the vines are comfortable and suffciently hydrated. And keeping an eye on the sky. Come along to Stratheden Street, Kyogle see if you can guess the weight of the Magic Pumpkin. Meet Phil Dudman, he knows a thing or two about growing absolutely everything. Enjoy the Music in the street, enter the Watermelon Eating Contest. Be one hand to receive some giveaways from Searles Garden Supplies & our sponsor Royston Petrie Seeds. Enter your over sized veges in the home gardener contest. can make the Best Pumpkin Scones or Pumpkin Pie cash prizes are on offer for all the competitions. Maybe you would enjoy the Farmers & Craft Market or soaking up the sights from the shade of the trees. There will be Classic Cars & Motor Bikes on Display The fabulous Rail Motor Society Train will run over the weekend, through the breathtaking Border Loop. Bookings will open in the New Year. Details will be advertised on our Facebook page: Summerland Giant Pumpkin & Watermelon Festival and through the Tourist Information shop on Summerland Way, Kyogle and the Richmond River Times. See you at the Festival Stratheden Street, Kyogle
Heaviest Sweet Potato
Senior $50, Junior $25
Best Garden Harvest Basket Senior $50, Junior $25
A new Light Storm Vehicle and Storm
delivered to NSW State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers at
fxed to the roof, electric brakes and a removable winch.
Commissioner York said.
Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the $220,000 worth
enable SES volunteers to undertake more tree, roof and pumping jobs.
“As communities across NSW continue to experience the worst fooding on record, it’s important our tireless volunteers have the resources they need and deserve,” Ms Cooke
Member for Clarence Chris Gulaptis said the state-of-the-art handed over features LED emergency lights, an extension ladder
“This $220,000 investment in the Casino Unit forms part of the NSW Government’s $116.04 million Fleet Replacement Program which is delivering new vehicles and resources to communities right across regional, rural and remote NSW,” Mr Gulaptis said.
SES Commissioner Carlene York said the new assets would greatly increase operational and response capability.
“The vehicle and trailer are functional and capable to combat the very diffcult circumstances our volunteers face during these unprecedented foods. I’m pleased our members will have the latest equipment when undertaking their vital roles in their communities,”
Commander Karen Rea said the new vehicle and trailer were a welcome boost to the Unit’s resources.
“The last few months have been extremely busy for our Unit. With only 26 members, we have responded to more than 490 requests for assistance since the beginning of the year,” Ms Rea said.
To coincide with the Light Storm Vehicle and Storm Trailer being handed over, the Casino Unit also hosted a local community event today to showcase its facilities and vehicles, and provide information on volunteering and storm preparedness.
nuclear submarine acquisitions cost the Australian bottomless pit also known as ‘The Treasury’ and why is this cost not being disclosed?
The Australian taxpayer will be subsidising foreign military weapons industry manufacturing.
letters@nrtimes.com.au
Please keep under 250 words & include address and phone number This material from the originating organization/author(s) may be of a point-in-time nature, edited for clarity, style and length. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s).
Deadline 10am Monday’s
I am shocked and saddened to hear of your support for the jailing of Deanna ‘Violet’ Coco. She blocked traffic in Sydney for a short time in an attempt to highlight the threatened disruption looming from Climate Change.
I am 76 years old, and I worry about the future we are facing. I worry for my adult children and my grandchildren. In February this year my house flooded in the floods which went on to devastate Lismore. I am still repairing the damage and wondering whether I will have to abandon my home. The experts have stated that these floods were exacerbated by Global Warming.
I can understand a young person today feeling powerless and despairing in the face of the apparent refusal by Governments to take the threat of Climate Change seriously.
Deanna ‘Violet’ Coco does not need jail time. She does not need counselling. What she needs is to see those in power acknowledging the risky future facing us all and taking steps to limit the damage of burning fossil fuels. Every time a new coalmine is opened, or an existing one expanded, it is another blow to future survival. Another blow to the next generation’s chances of survival.
Release Deanna ‘Violet’ Coco on a good behaviour bond maybe, but do not punish her for her attempts to highlight this desperately important issue.
Yours sincerely, Hugh Nicholson
The Channon
It’s true that Christmas is the gift giving season celebrated in most countries around the world.
But gift-giving can be in many forms. Take for example this story about a well-off lady who decided to buy an investment
property for the future, so she went to an auction.
Before the auction started everyone was talking but she noticed an old lady sitting, distraught, trying to hold back her tears so she went over to ask what the matter was and found out that the old lady’s home that she had lived in for years was being auctioned. She told the old lady ‘I will try and buy the home so you can still live in it’ and that is what she did.
Similarly, Christians celebrate Christmas as the time when God sent His only begotten son Jesus or Yeshua, from His riches in Heaven down to earth to be born in flesh as a baby to buy us back from the Evil One controlling this earth so that we can be free from our trespasses/sins and have eternal life with God in the riches of Heaven.
It’s good to see that the NRTimes has an ‘Adopt-A-Family’ column on page 16 the last few weeks for those able to help others by donating to three charities. It says for presents to be unwrapped and suggests hampers/ vouchers welcome from local supermarkets, cinemas, swimming pools. This has been a most devastating year for a lot of people. It’s time to heal some hurts.
Lynette Evans NUMULGIAustralia signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Is the Australian Government going to breach that treaty by acquiring nuclear weapons.
A nuclear-powered submarine is a nuclear weapon whether or not it carries nuclear missiles.
It is not a cruise or cargo ship.
A rifle without a bullet in its breach is still a weapon, why else do we have to apply for licences in order to posses one.
How much will these
These nuclear submarine contracts are based upon illegality and as such are voidable.
China is now the boogy man.
How many unjust, illegal wars external to their territory has China been involved in since 1949 compared to Australia?
Australia… Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan and anywhere else the USA demands.
China …nil.
In 1965 the British Bastards could not dump Australia’s Primary Producers fast enough to join the European Common Market.
Australia’s farmers would have been up sewerage creek if China had not stepped in to save them by acquiring their produce.
To set the record straight…The WW2 Potsdam Agreement told Japan to get out of Formosa/Taiwan and it was returned to China.
It is Chinese Territory.
Claire De Ellae Urbenville
Interesting that 300 gigalitres will reduce a major flood in Lismore by two metres (information from the Engeny study via Graham Askey Lis app 25/11)
So, my maths says that if we build six 50 gig dams upstream of Lismore that would equal 300 gigs thereby reducing the flood by two meters.
If we also added retention basins downstream of the dams, we would reduce the floods further.
If we dig relieving channels to allow the water to escape more quickly and bypass some of Lismore, Coraki, Woodburn, and Broadwater we would reduce the flood height in Lismore further WITHOUT adversely affecting those downstream and actually reducing the flood levels in ALL AREAS below the dams!!!
But wait aforesaid dams, retention basins, channels may have some adverse environmental effects and according to a few very vocal people should not be allowed!! They forget to mention the environmental benefits from them especially the dams which could retain some water thus providing a permanent
water source for our native animals and release environmental flows in time of drought thereby keeping water in our creeks and rivers for the benefit of all. (Apparently, we are focusing on the heavier rainfall that is coming in the future according to those who espouse climate change but we are ignoring the fact that the dry periods will be longer and more intense, so water retention is extremely important)
Upfront cost is once only with very little ongoing cost for maintenance. Compared to what these latest floods have cost and will continue to cost into the future they are extremely small. We (the government) currently spend 97% of our disaster money on remediation AFTER THE EVENT and ONLY 3% on prevention!!! Hardly a good business model. We need to change this thinking and PREVENT or at least minimise flooding wherever possible This does not include the proposed Dunoon dam because it is primarily for water security for the area Rous Water services although it DOES have significant mitigation benefits as well as many other benefits for the area which is a bonus.
If natural solutions work, as some claim, our worst flooding would have been 60 to 100 years ago when extensive clearing was conducted for farmland, much of this cleared farmland has been allowed to revegetate over the years so our floods should be diminishing not setting records. I agree that our river health is abysmal and needs addressing as a matter of urgency but restoring river health will NOT STOP FLOODING, the floodplains were created over millennia and are evidence of past floods before ANY settlement had occurred.
Time to stop acting on what a very small vocal minority are saying and do what is BEST FOR THE COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE.
Col Baker Modanvillewatching Sky News “balanced” coverage where serial offender and fanatical Liberal Party operative Peta Credlin- along with the rest of the Sky News “after dark” rightist drongos who had just spent the last three years relentlessly demonizing the highly popular Premier- try and spin the unfolding Liberal carnage.
In particular the face on Credlin was something to behold, it looked like she had just stepped on something very smelly, and it was firmly stuck to her foot, something was seriously getting up her nose.
These Neo-cons never learn, it’s no wonder Labor is emphatically winning elections all over Australia and absolutely demolishing Conservative Govts in the process, that consistently insult and incense Aussie voters by always lecturing never listening, always denying never delivering, and arrogantly refuse to listen to anything that contradicts their own discredited bullsh#t. The chooks have certainly come home to roost for the Coalition and Murdoch’s minions.
intelligent mainstream Aussies have been giving the finger to Murdoch’s blatant support for toxic extreme right politics.
Keith Duncan PimlicoIt doesn’t take much to see the fly weight collusion between our politicians especially when it comes to their purses.
Ley and Dutton came out swinging with allegations that Labor would break the promise of tax cuts for the gloved society.
Albanese entered the ring with the chin down, eyes diverted, defence of ‘no we will not’ .
Barnaby tags with we need money for the rural sector, but the ring is rotten and nearly collapses because the bottomless treasury pit has been overpaying the promoters.
Those at ringside jump the ropes and ask Barnaby to stop the tax uppercuts and give pensioners a rise so they will be able to pay their council rates.
Ali shuffles prevail.
The Pollytishuns all want their pay rise disguised so they use the courtesy of the Tax system.
In Urbenville where the residents pay more per dollar valuation on their council rates than those in Point Piper, a fight where some idiots are promoting an incompetent council and the Tenterfield Mayor defending with ‘its good for you to have a 43% compound rate rise’.
THE
What a great night’s entertainment was had on the 26th of November watching Dan Andrews Victorian Labor Govt being returned for a third term with a well-deserved, increased thumping majority, and dishing out to the Liberals another thumping defeat.
The best was actually
This cabal of covert political operatives constantly inflame outrage and wage culture wars against something called “the left” and “wokeism”?, peddle every insane conspiracy theory their infantile minds can dream up, like “the great reset” (whatever that is) to entrap the highly gullible.
But even after all the nonsensical righty crap these overpaid, overacting, overly insulting, overly irrational, overly deceitful, overrated boofheads peddle, they fail to attract any more than a niche audience of just 50 to 80,000, just a tenth of what the ABC’s highly regarded 7.30 program attracts.
It’s little wonder
It appears that the bout is fixed.
At a meeting of the mayor & spectators in the Urbenville Madison Square Gardens Hall three exceptional heroes tell them all to GF.
I will vote for these 3 higher IQ gifted if they stand for council
Claire De Ellae
Urbenville
A fellow of the Royal Australia College of General Practitioners, and an Accredited Skin Cancer Doctor, Paddy has a special interest in the prevention and treatment of skin cancer, and holds Advanced Certificates in Skin Cancer Medicine/Surgery and Dermatoscopy
Paddy undertakes all aspects of patient care including skin cancer screening and diagnosis, and dermatological surgery including head, face and lower limb regions, using a variety of flaps and skin grafts
He is also passionate about informing his patients on the preventative measures that can be undertaken to avoid skin cancer
Dr Pramuk Jayatilake, or PJ as he prefers to be called, has extensive experience practicing medicine throughout Australia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and PNG
PJ is accredited with the Skin Cancer College of Australia and is able to perform full skin checks and procedures including skin flaps
PJ has a holistic, preventative approach to health and wellbeing
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.
Nestled in the foothills of the Tweed caldera, the scenic village of Tyalgum is gearing up for what will be a busy festive season.
The village has had to endure the closure of Tyalgum Road – the main entry to the village – due to a huge landslip caused by the foods in February this year.
Since then, access to the village has been via Numinbah Road, through Chillingham
through the Tweed hinterland and the village is preparing for what the community hopes will be a festive season worth celebrating.
Discover Tyalgum’s Brad Sims said the village had been hit hard by the closure of Tyalgum Road.
“With a number of community events planned, the message is defnitely ‘Tyalgum is open for business’,” Mr
every Friday night at Flutterbucks Pizza
• American-style BBQ smoker on every weekend at Tyalgum General Store
• Christmas Garden Concert featuring the Heart Collectors - Garden of Light, Saturday 10 December
• Hotel reopening - Tyalgum Hotel, Thursday 15 December
and on to Zara and Limpinwood roads.
Council has been busy since February repairing and reconstructing this alternative access which has also involved new pavement construction, widening, new drainage works and safety improvements, in time for the holiday season.
Tyalgum is only a 30-minute scenic drive from Murwillumbah
Sims said.
“We have a great range of boutique shopping, exquisite food and beverage venues and a variety of places to stay and enjoy some country hospitality.”
With Christmas rapidly approaching, the village is embracing the festival spirit with a number of events planned. These include:
• Live music
• Tyalgum
Community Christmas Carols - Tyalgum Hall, Sunday 18 December.
Details of events can be found at What’s On Tweed. Discover Tyalgum also distributes an email newsletter every week featuring all events, cafes, bars and shopping in the village. Read and/or subscribe to Discover Tyalgum at discovertyalgum.com.
BE THE REASON SOMEONES SMILES THIS CHRISTMASThere’s something for everyone this Christmas in the picturesque village of Tyalgum, nestled in the heart of the Tweed caldera. Enjoy a delicious American-style BBQ smoker meal offered every weekend in the garden of the Tyalgum General Store.
On Tuesday, 22nd November, Woolworths visited Murwillumbah Cricket Club to show their support for the food ravaged club, presenting a donation valued at $50,000 to help get the club back on its feet.
Woolworths were joined by a special guest, former Australian cricket star Shane Watson who personally delivered the exciting news to the club and young Woolworths Cricket Blast participants.
As the naming rights partner for Woolworths Cricket Blast, Woolworths has been a long-standing partner for grassroots cricket and is familiar with the challenges Murwillumbah Cricket Club has faced this past year including a complete fooding of the club’s facilities.
Woolworths are proud to help support Murwillumbah Cricket Club continue facilitating Woolworths Cricket Blast sessions to keep the grassroots program up and running for the region’s enthusiastic junior cricketers.
The signifcant support totalling $50,000 will help Murwillumbah Cricket Club rebuild their food damaged club house, replace Woolworths Cricket Blast Equipment such as bats, balls, stumps and drink bottles which were lost in the foods, the provision and the purchase of new assets for the club including
a brand-new BBQ and shade marquee Additionally, Woolworths will extend its support to cover the registration fees for all Woolworths Cricket Blast participants from Tweed Valley Cricket Association in 2023.
Shane Watson who presented the generous donation from Woolworths to the club said: “It’s been a big day here at Murwillumbah Cricket Club. Woolworths have donated $50,000 to Murwillumbah to be able to help them get back on their feet. I know how much it means to the cricket club to be able to have funds to renovate and redevelop the club house that got so badly affected by the foods.
“There are so many passionate people who love the game of cricket, who love the community and give up their time and energy and passion to be able to help the next generation of young
boys and girls coming through as cricketers.
“There’s no surprise here at Murwillumbah cricket club that there are a lot of incredible people who give up so much of their time to make sure the next generation of cricketers have the opportunity to enjoy the game of cricket and get out into the sun during the summer which is always such a huge part of every Australian Summer.”
Woolworths Supermarkets Head of Community and Sponsorships, Sarah De La Mare said: “We are proud to help support Murwillumbah Cricket Club who have shown great resilience through challenging times to keep their junior cricket programs up and running.
“We understand the importance of having access to grassroots cricket and we hope to encourage the growth and continued
participation, despite the setbacks in the region, by covering the registration fees for Cricket Blast in Tweed Valley Cricket Association in 2023.”
Murwillumbah Cricket Club President Adam Housen said: “When Woolworths made the announcement today, we just didn’t know what to say, it’s an amazing announcement and we’re so thankful and it’s really put a spring in the step in everyone here at the club.
“The $50,00 will help us rebuild our downstairs canteen and some of the other parts of the cricket club that have been missed due to what’s happened earlier in the year, but the community will all become a part of that, and they really embrace the cricket in this area so it will be amazing.”
To join your local Woolworths Cricket Blast program today you can head to playcricket. com.au
The NSW Government is urging all internet shoppers to stay alert and follow the steps required to keep their personal information safe this festive season.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said the holiday period was a popular time for cybercriminals to target busy online shoppers, as more and more people search the web for a Christmas bargain.
“Digital thieves are increasingly malicious and devious and will set up legitimatelooking websites or social media stores to trick shoppers into handing over money and personal details, or they may install malicious software on a person’s computer or phone,” Mr Dominello said.
“Cybercriminals rely on people letting their guard down when buying online, so it is vital to stay alert as fake sellers will often copy the designs and logos from real businesses to appear genuine.
“If users think a site could be fake, they should do a search for other web pages or profles by that seller and compare logos, business names, URL addresses and contact details to ensure they match.”
The NSW Government established ID Support NSW to assist customers who have had their governmentissued proof of identity stolen and make it
easier for them to access the help they need, as well as tips for keeping yourself safe online.
“ID Support NSW provides a single point-of-contact for customers who have had their identity compromised with options for additional support, counselling services and help replacing identifcation documents if required,” Mr Dominello said.
Steps to stay safe online this festive season include:
• Buy from trusted sellers. If it sounds too good to be true, it normally is
• Make sure the URL contains a padlock symbol and begins with https://
• Use secure payment methods only as these may be able to recover funds should an order not be received
• Don’t click directly on links, particularly from unsolicited texts and emails
• Search for and read reviews of sellers and consider if they seem genuine
• Check if sellers have an address and contact details which can be verifed and check they have a fair refund/return policy
• Only share what information is absolutely necessary
• Avoid saving credit card details to websites.
and upgrade program was funded through the NSW Government’s bridge maintenance program.
“The lead-based paints originally used on old bridges like this present some challenges when it comes to removing it,” Mr Farraway said.
The Glenreagh Bridge is back to its former glory following the completion of painting on the 104-year-old structure.
Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis said the steel truss bridge was built at the end of World War I and is unusual for a bridge of its time.
“Most of the road bridges built in that era were made with either concrete or timber because of the shortage of steel, which was required for the war effort,” Mr Gulaptis said.
“But the Glenreagh Bridge was different. It was built by the rail authorities to provide a connection between the
railway station on the eastern side of the river and Glenreagh village to the west.
“Rail authorities at the end of the war had access to steel because railways were an essential piece of infrastructure and they were given priority access.
“It’s one of the reasons it’s important to keep these bridges in good condition. They continue to provide a vital role in keeping communities connected, but also provide an important link to the past.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the $2.2 million repainting
“It requires an innovative solution to remove the paint while not polluting the surrounding environment.
“To do this we essentially shrink-wrapped the bridge to catch the waste material and vacuum it into a fltration system to dispose of it at a registered facility.
“Our Government is investing in new and upgraded infrastructure, but we’re also maintaining historically significant bridges that are part of the fabric of our communities.”
The Glenreagh Bridge is now open to traffc in each direction, however, crews will still be on site while some minor work is carried out.
The Red Soil Mentors is building a network of passionate people interested in learning more about restoring the soils and landscape of the
located in Ballina and Lismore.
The group has attracted landholders who are interested in building skills and sharing knowledge while focusing on the benefts that connecting with like-minded people offers.
Caroline Woodhead, who is coordinating the group, said there is a real need for community-driven projects such as this.
“In recent years tree-changers have focked to the region with many new landholders having little or no experience with riparian or rainforest restoration techniques,” Caroline said.
“Community-led activities have a likelihood of being more sustainable and relevant for local landholders, as well as encouraging neighbourhood connectivity and community resilience.
“We welcome anyone in the Red Soils Mentors who is interested in joining the group and we want to hear
what it is people would like to learn.”
Group member Rick Billson has been involved in Landcare for many years and said everyone who wants to tackle weeds and restore the rainforest has got to start somewhere.
“There is a certain energy that you only get from working together in a group,” Rick said.
“It’s inspiring to learn different approaches and experiment with new ideas on how to tackle problems.
“I feel it helps to have a long-term vision. Forests take time to mature so anyone interested in rainforest restoration needs to be patient but the rewards are the cool and calm that trees bring to your environment.”
While several formalised Landcare groups exist in the local area, informal networks which support work on private land can be more attractive for landholders already struggling to keep up with maintenance on their own properties.
Taking inspiration from the Jiggi Grass Roots Mentoring Group, the Red Soil Mentors was formed
to help build the skills, capacity and ongoing connection of landholders and other like-minded people.
Members of the Red Soil Mentors Group have the opportunity to work sideby-side on each other’s properties, to expand everyone’s knowledge base, confdence, and ongoing commitment to maintaining and expanding the riparian areas rehabilitated.
Initiated by Richmond Landcare and funded by North Coast Local Land Service under the NSW Government’s Marine Estate Management Strategy, this community-led group aims to be a self-sustaining landholder support network.
• To register your interest to attend a Red Soil Mentors feld day, contact Caroline at woodhead4@gmail.com
• For more information on the project contact Richmond Landcare at info@richmondlandcare.
org
• For more information on the Marine Estate Management Strategy, visit www.lls.nsw.gov.au/ mems or email mems@lls. nsw.gov.au.
Thanks to the generosity of the Children’s Hospital Foundation, a partner of the annual Woolworth Easter token appeal, Lismore Base Hospital has received a new humidicrib for Special Care Nursery.
Wanting to help the
The humidicrib provides sick or preterm babies with supplemental oxygen control and a temperature-controlled environment. The humidicrib allows for a baby’s vitals to be constantly monitored and observed for any changes.
Coordinator praised the ongoing generosity of the local community.
“Due to COVID and the foods, these last three years have been hard on our community; and most of the Our Kids fundraising functions have been cancelled.
Lismore community following the foods earlier this year, the Children’s Hospital Foundation contacted one of their partners, The Lottery Offce, to jump on board.
Jaclyn Wood, CEO of The Lottery Offce said the role of ‘Our Kids’ was integral to the community.
“It has been our pleasure to contribute to the work of this fabulous organisation and assist them in continuing to provide an extremely high standard of care to children and support to their families,” Ms Wood said.
The new humidicrib is an upgrade which replaces an older humidicrib, one of the frst pieces of equipment Our Kids purchased in 2005.
Jo Ezzy, Nurse Unit Manager, Lismore Base Hospital Special Care Nursery thanked the partners for their donation.
”The new humidicrib enables our team to continue to give high-quality care that our team strives to give the babies who are at increased clinical risk and requiring special care,” Ms Ezzy said.
Rebekka Battista, Our Kids Fundraising
However, even through hard times, the community has been so generous, and this investment to our local community from The Lottery Offce has been wonderful,” said Rebekka.
“Thank you to the Children’s Hospital Foundation and The Lottery Offce for working together to help our sick babies in the Lismore Region.”
If you would like to know more about Our Kids or what is currently on the Our Kids Wishlist, please contact Rebekka at info@ourkids. org.au or the offce at 66202705.
Aged care residents could see their daily pain symptoms improve by up to 50%, with some residents to experience no symptoms at all, a new pain management and reablement program developed by Whiddon has uncovered.
In partnership with Researcher (physiotherapist) Dr Jennie Hewitt, the awardwinning Exercise 4 Life program was piloted across three Whiddon aged care homes with participant activity totalling 896 seated knee extensors, 1,344 knee flexors, 672 sit to stand movements and 5,040 hip abductions, bringing the total amount of exercises to nearly eight thousand.
Trialling a new evidence-based approach to pain management, the program has highlighted the positive link between activity and quality of life, with an increased sense of happiness and general wellbeing felt across all 28 study
participants. The program also measured mood, which increased by 20% over the same time period.
The new program, Exercise 4 Life, was commissioned in response to the government’s new funding model, Australian National Aged Care Classification (AN-ACC), which enables aged care providers to offer evidencebased and therapeutic programs as part of an individuals’ care plan.
Dr Jennie Hewitt, who was an Expert Witness to the Royal Commission on Aged Care Quality and Safety on allied health service provision and co-designer of Whiddon’s program, praises the not-for-profit for taking such proactive measures and demonstrating how a better aged-care system can perform.
“The team at Whiddon have demonstrated industry leadership
by deciding to take an evidence-based approach to pain management and reablement,” said Dr Hewitt.
“Developing, testing and scaling new ways of delivering pain management and reablement programs places Whiddon at the forefront of best practice physiotherapy care. Timing of this study is especially critical as it comes at a point where allied health support is being re-evaluated as a result of the new funding model.
Reinforcing the relevance and demand for such programs, post
pandemic trends show that Google searches for ‘chair pilates for seniors’ increased by 80%1, while an increasing number of community organisations are supporting octogenarian members2 with special events to ensure the older generation remain on the move.
Whiddon is implementing Exercise 4 Life, across all 23 of its homes with the roll out to be completed by Christmas this year. The program will not only benefit its residents, but will also provide opportunities for Whiddon employees
to train as Therapy Assistants as part of the program.
Whiddon’s Head of Strategy and Innovation, Karn Nelson, said the new funding model has given Whiddon a fantastic opportunity to do something transformative not only for its residents, but also to attract good allied health practitioners to the Group.
“The previous ACFI funding model meant we were restricted to treating pain with treatments that were supportive, but not evidence-based as effective treatments. Now we can offer a very effective program for our clients and residents, and allow allied health specialists to use their skills to improve quality of life.
Here at Whiddon, we are always looking to achieve best outcomes for residents, while also developing new service delivery strategies in the transition to AN-ACC
based funding, but service delivery that also provides meaningful work for our hardworking staff and allied partners.
“I’m proud that the new program has proved so successful and that we have developed a new therapy service model that we can roll out over the coming months,” Ms Nelson added.
The initiative has already been recognised by the sector with Whiddon scooping up an award at this years innovAGEING National Awards. The award was given to the providers Innovation and Strategy team who were praised for their innovative spirit and an exemplary example of enabling older people to maintain their wellbeing and live their best lives.
Whiddon sets the benchmark for physiotherapy outcomes under new funding model
One of history’s brightest minds, albeit most reflective thinkers – Socrates, once stated, after being heralded as the wisest person in all of Athens, “The only thing I know is that I know nothing, and I am not quite sure that I know that.”
To your literal-minded, surface-skimming person, Socrates’ response could be considered an admission of idiocy; but ironically, only an idiot could interpret the wise old man’s comments as such. What he was in fact admitting to, on behalf of us all, was the true extent of comprehensional inadequacy we each possess, when it comes to what can and can’t be known, with any certainty.
For the self-aware person, or the ones that try their darndest to be, no day goes by in which there is not a moment you find yourself in the throes of ignorance, about any number of things in particular. The origin of the word ‘ignorance’ alone, stems from the Latin ‘ignoratia’, or ‘not knowing, having a want of knowledge.’
Considering Socrates died close to 2,500 years ago, it is fitting of people alive today that his comments still aptly capture something timeless about the nature of human beings. As such this wise old Athenian also once said, “There is only one good, knowledge; and one evil, ignorance… Intelligent individuals learn from everything and everyone; average people, from their experiences. The stupid already have all the answers.”
It is in having all the answers, and not wanting to even hear any additional questions that
true ignorance resides; it emanates from those afflicted with this vice, like the person who has fingers flung up behind their head unbeknown, to make two antennas in what they think is a serious photo. Or as the American teacher and reformer, Amos Bronson Alcott once aptly said, “To be ignorant of one’s ignorance is the malady of the ignorant.”
Relatedly, Wayne W. Dyer once shone a very bright light on this topic when he said, “The highest form of ignorance is when you reject something you don’t know anything about.” Not that this stops countless people from ‘speaking their mind’ or wanting to be seen as authorities on issues that arise ‘clearly’ beyond their grasp. Tacitus, who was a contemporary of Christ, once ably discerned, “No one knew anything, but each was confident in assertion.”
The safest way to navigate the perilous straits of ignorance is to keep in mind all the things you don’t know, and not wade into these areas with the bolstered convictions of an expert. That’s not to say you might not in time learn all there is to learn in a specific field; but hasten slowly, acquire the exposure, expertise, and the skills first of someone that has made the effort to be truly informed.
As the Scottish essayist, Thomas Carlyle once stated, “I do not believe in the collective wisdom of individual ignorance, “and nor should we; there are never grounds for an acceptance of ignorance that presents itself as anything other than what it is – a brute awareness that is in serious need of some learning and refinement.
“History is not a burden on the memory,” once said Lord Acton, “but an illumination of the soul.” Which is an apt entry point to the place and relevance of history in all our lives, irrespective of whether we acknowledge the notional, albeit emotional signifcance of this comment or not.
For Steve Tranter, the current President of Clarence River Historical Society, the value and importance of the past, or more particularly the people who toiled and strived to make our present what it is, is something he’s ever mindful of.
“I am passionate about history,” Mr Tranter said, “and particularly local history and seeing the hard work these people (that preceded us) did and the recognition they deserve. Decisions they made on a daily basis that shape our lives now.”
Based in the National Trust classifed ‘Schaeffer House’ in Grafton, Mr Tranter walks the walk and talks the talk when it comes to bringing history to life; which merely equates to having the interpersonal knack of keeping history alive through what you say, and all that you do.
The town of Grafton itself was named in honour of the Duke of Grafton in 1851; he was the second youngest Prime Minister of the UK at age 33, not to mention the eventual father of 12 children. His term as PM commenced two months after Captain Cook set sail from England in 1768, and ended three-months prior to Cook striding onto the shores of the east coast of Australia in 1770.
Evidently, the essence of history and all that takes place within it, is its interconnectedness, or the potential it has for connections that are seemingly non-
existent, albeit far removed, and yet made apparent through the application of diligence and research. As the American Nobel Prizewinner, Pearl S. Buck once gleaned, “If you want to understand today you have to search yesterday.”
Having devoted himself now to the rigours of historical preservation on a voluntary basis, when asked what life had taught him, Mr Tranter said, “I have always treated others as I would like to be treated myself. A good life, I believe, is where you put back more than what you take.”
As a former Captain’s Secretary on a warship in the Navy, and someone who has performed many positions at a Federal and State government level over a 50-year period, Mr Tranter said, “I believe success can be made through helping others, as you age and have achieved many of the things that you have set your mind to, then it becomes a wonderful thing to help others.
“I wish I had more time to fnish more tasks. I suspect though, that I, like many others, take on too many things and this makes time appear to be travelling much faster than it really is!”
While each of our lives only ever pass at the heartbeat speed of one day at a time, what becomes of our lives and any legacy we might leave behind, is quite often determined by what we do for others.
With this set as a basic criteria, it is clear that Mr Tranter, when that day fnally comes for him to call “Time!”, he will be fondly referred to, and remembered by all.
Long-time Clarence Valley community advocate, Debrah Novak has announced today she will be standing as a Community Independent for the State Seat of Clarence in the 2023 NSW March State Election.
Ms Novak begins her campaign with an open invitation to join her in a new conversation about how to do politics differently.
“My website landing page goes live today, and I am inviting anyone from the Clarence Valley or Richmond Valley who is interested in sharing this journey to register through the website so they can be
kept informed and can learn how their role is crucial in keeping our democracy healthy and transparent.
A ‘Community Independent’ represents the collective interests of the people and provides collaborative
leadership when sitting at the table with the major political parties”. This year Ms Novak was awarded the Grafton Midday Rotary’s Paul Harris Fellow Award for her community work, and it is this continued passion and community service she brings to her role as an elected Clarence Valley Councillor”.
Ms Novak is a second term Councillor for Clarence Valley Council and if elected as the new State Member in March can hold both positions for a period of 18 months.
To be an integral part of Ms Novak’s campaign please register at www.debrahnovak.au
The Queensland Country Women’s Association’s Coolangatta branch is calling on its neighbouring Tweed Heads community this Christmas to help families left isolated by domestic violence.
The QCWA is preparing special ‘care packages’ for mothers and children ahead of the big day.
“These families will be in local safe houses and refuges over Christmas after feeing their homes and taking very few possessions with them,” Karen Howell, Branch President QCWA Coolangatta said.
“They will not have any contact with their own families or friends at Christmas. We just want to help spread the joy of Christmas and let them know that their
community cares about them,” she said.
The Coolangatta QCWA would greatly appreciate any donations of canned foods - vegetables, fruit, spaghetti and fsh, packets such as pasta and sauces, long life milk and juices, breakfast cereals, savoury biscuits and small Christmas puddings and treats.
The Christmas packs
for the children will contain colouring-in books, pencils, card games etc.
“If you would like to donate a present for a child, please wrap it and mark it ‘boy/girl’ and age, or a present for ‘mum,’” Karen Howell, Branch President QCWA Coolangatta said “QCWA Coolangatta would appreciate any donation you can make for these wonderful
packs,” she added.
Items can be dropped into the QCWA hall at 169 Griffth Street, Coolangatta on any Tuesday between 9.30 am and 12 md (Qldtime) up until Tuesday, December 20.
For more information or to arrange an alternate time for drop-offs, please phone Annette on 0414 626 923.
Fire follow up
Clarence Valley Council had informed owners of a scrap metal yard near Grafton, which was the scene of a large fre last month, it had concerns with the business’s land use.
A council spokesperson said the council had issued correspondence under both planning and environmental legislation to the car wrecking yard at Trenayr with respect to land use at the site.
He said in light of the recent fre, council was considering options to progress compliance and enforcement action under the legislation.
NSW Fire and Rescue and Rural Fire Service brigades took nearly nine hours to bring the blaze which incinerated an estimated 1500 car wrecks, under control.
The NSW Environmental Protection Authority warned Grafton residents to stay indoors due to the toxic smoke plume issuing from the
fre.
The Iluka Woombah Family Fun Day is not far off and should go into the holiday calendar.
The day will feature a fve-event piglet racing carnival and will be held on Thursday, January 5 at Club Iluka from 11am.
It promises to be a hilarious and entertaining time for the whole family.
Clarence Valley Council offces in Grafton and Maclean will be closed from 10.30am on Thursday for a staff development day. Both offces will reopen at 8.30am on Friday.
In an emergency, like a water main break during the closure, use the after hours number 6626 6858 to report it.
Residents can use the www.clarence.nsw.gov. au/Forms/Report-it for any non-urgent matters.
Oooh!! I saw ‘Mum Jane’ fetch my ‘Car Travel Basket’ with a newly fuffed & washed blankie for my comfort! (‘Leemo Cat’ here.)
THIS means she is taking me for a drive! She ‘dropped’ me into the basket, locked it, and put it on the seat next to her. Yippeee! Off we drove! I realised quickly Mum is nothing but an evil conniving old woman. We went straight to a Vet surgery ‘cos I’ve had a wheezy chest and she wanted it checked out. After MEESIE being poked & prodded Mum was given medicine for ME to take. NUP, ain’t gonna happen. (Lovely readers, this is ‘Mum Jane.’ e.g., what happened with ‘Leemo’. I read this story 25 years ago and think it should be read by all cat lovers.) (Enjoy!) ‘HOW TO GIVE A CAT A TABLET’. Pick cat up and cradle it in the crook of left arm as if holding a baby.
Position right forefnger and thumb on each side of cat’s mouth and gently apply pressure to cheeks while holding pill in right hand. As cat opens mouth, pop tablet in. Allow cat to close mouth and swallow.
Locate pill from foor and cat from behind sofa. Cradle cat in left arm and repeat process. Retrieve cat from bathroom, and throw soggy pill away. Take new pill from foil wrap, cradle cat in left arm holding rear paws tightly with left hand. Force jaws open and push pill to back of mouth with right forefnger. Hold mouth
shut & count to 10. Retrieve pill from foor and cat from cupboard. Call spouse from garden. Kneel on foor with cat wedged frmly between knees, holding front and rear paws. Ignore growls by cat. Get spouse to hold cats head frmly with one hand while forcing wooden ruler into mouth. Drop pill down ruler and rub cat’s throat vigorously. Retrieve cat from curtain rail, get another pill from foil. Note: buy new ruler and repair curtains. Sweep shattered glass from foor. Set aside for gluing later. Wrap cat in large towel and get spouse to lie on cat with its head just visible from below spouse’s armpit. Put pill in end of drinking straw, force cat’s mouth open with pencil and blow pill down drinking straw. Check label to ensure pill not harmful to humans, drink water to remove taste. Apply band-aid to spouse’s forearm and remove blood from carpet with cold water and soap. Retrieve cat from tree. Get another pill. Place cat in cupboard and close door onto neck to leave head showing. Force mouth open with spoon. Flick pill down throat with elastic band. Fetch screwdriver from garage and put door back on hinges. Apply ice pack to cheek and check date of last tetanus shot. Discard T-shirt. Fetch clean one. Ring fre brigade to retrieve cat from neighbour’s tree. Apologise to neighbour who crashed into fence whilst avoiding cat. Take last pill from foil. Tie cat’s front paws to rear paws with garden twine & bind tightly to leg of dining table. Find heavy duty gloves. Force cat’s mouth open with small spanner. Push pill into mouth followed by large piece of fllet steak. Hold head vertically and pour 1/2 pint of water down throat to wash pill down. Get spouse to drive you to A&E. Sit quietly while doctor stitches fngers and forearm and removes pill bits from eyes. Hmmm..Leemo here. She exaggerates terribly does ‘Mum Jane’.
Meet the dynamic duo who own OTTWAY The Label, a lifestyle clothing brand. Manu and Neri recently purchased a beautiful property in Ocean Shores to be close to their new Byron Bay store. Discover the story behind their brand and why they chose the Northern Rivers to call home.
When did you open your OTTWAY Byron Bay store?
We started OTTWAY The Label fve years ago while living in Melbourne. We established our headquarters and fagship store there while running the online business. We opened our new store in Byron Bay (15 Lawson Street) in September. We have always been told that our brand was meant to be in Byron Bay - and we believe so!
OTTWAY is more than a clothing label, you describe it as a lifestyle vehicle. Tell us more.
Our focus with launching OTTWAY was to build a community of likeminded people who share a strong sustainability focus. We want to inspire people in the way they live, the way they look, and the way they feel –our mantra is ‘Life is for living’. It’s about being in the moment, being with friends and thriving in communities.
How is OTTWAY contributing to a sustainable future?
Building a sustainable future is always at the forefront of our minds. We are a slow-fashion
our impact by reducing the amount of energy consumption at the warehouse, offce and stores. We offset 100% of the electricity with renewable energy making us carbon neutral.
With every purchase we donate funds to install solar panels. Our sustainability program, Solo Sunny Days, has so far contributed 700 solar panels to communityowned projects around Australia – that’s enough energy to power more than 93 homes for an entire year!
You recently purchased your home in Ocean Shores. What inspired you to move to the region from Melbourne?
new adventure. Now we feel it is time to live the next chapter in Australia and fnd a place to call home. We have always loved this region for its laid-back lifestyle, its people, the nature, the weather and the amazing community of creators.
What appeals to you about Ocean Shores in particular?
It feels like we are living in a national park. It’s so lush and tropical. It is incredible having the option of the beach and river. We spend the majority of our time surfng, swimming, walking the dog, playing beach tennis and now we’re getting into fshing. We rented a tinny the other day and we’re considering
getting a couple of paddle boards, too.
After eight years of living the city life, this is exactly what we were after, but we didn’t want to feel isolated. We have the serenity of this peaceful space yet we can meet up with friends at multiple venues around the corner.
You’ve got a gorgeous house and the entertaining deck is amazing. What was the frst thing you fell in love with when you walked into the space?
Defnitely the views. We really like the sense of open space and we’ve already started to make our mark. We have white-washed all the foors which looks amazing. It really brightens the space. It is becoming more of a white beach cottage which is the look we envisaged.
You purchased the property from MANA real estate. How was the experience?
It has been so easy since day one. We dealt with really nice people who were always available for any questions. We also loved the pamper box we were given after receiving the keys. It was such a lovely feeling having a cheese platter on the deck overlooking our amazing view.
“Leemo has views on just about anything”
focused business and create unique designs in small batches using premium quality fabrics. We are always looking at ways to minimiseWe came to Australia about eight years ago from Spain and settled in Melbourne. We were chasing dreams with the spirit for living a
Today we’re talking to you about the Talaria Electric Dirt Bike.
The Talaria is our pick of the bunch here at RPC and is the one we have just started stocking. Price? $6150 and selling fast. Speaking of fast, the top speed of the sting is 70km/h and has a range of up to 70km depending on your riding style.
The Talaria Sting, while very similar to the well-known Surron Light Bee, boasts some notable improvements including a larger rear tyre (a common upgrade on the Surron) and an enclosed reduction gearbox over the belt drive reduction, known
for collecting mud, sticks and broken belts.
These bikes are near silent meaning you won’t be disturbing your neighbours with the sound of a petrol dirt bike at 7:30am on a Sunday morning.
It features a light weight frame, making it easy for riders of all shapes and sizes up to 100kgs, and a powerful electric motor faster than some due to its instant torque. This power is transferred through an effcient gear drive whilst operating extremely quietly. You can also talk to your friends while riding- you can hear each other and have a conversation. You also get
to see more wildlife as they aren’t frightened by the noise. For adventures with the wife and kids, its compact well-balanced structure is very easy to manoeuvre, and requires minimal maintenance, just don’t crash it on your frst day like we did in sheer excitement.
We have additional techy info in the main full-length article on our website and socials.
We’re not just spruiking a new product, we really are advocating a new lifestyle choice- complete freedom and fun and powered by the sun.
“When I got my off road bike I couldn’t get the smile off
my face for weeks, the thrill every afternoon after work, the jobs made easier on the farm, it’s just an obvious choice for a young rural farmer like me who also cares about the environment and likes to have fun!”
We are very stoked (see what I did there?) to fnally have an electric vehicle for sale here at RPC! Don’t be left behind!
Great news for those thinking about getting around town on one, there is a road registerable version coming soon that will be available through RPC. Follow our social media pages for updates!
emissions from using electric vehicles can only be achieved if cars/bikes are charged 100% from solar- so think about getting a solar system (from the specialists at RPC!) to charge your EV and lifestyle.
Zero
When you require high quality steel products, call Andersons Engineering, our friendly team are here to help your every need. We are your Kyogle steel fabricators who can
create spare parts, conduct machinery repairs and ft custom metal products, to name a few.
Located at 276 Summerland Way, Andersons Engineering is open for business Monday to Friday, 7.30am till 5pm.
Next to the Oakes Oval Cricket Stadium, this laid back motel close to shops, clubs and restaurants is 3km from horse racing at Lismore Turf Club, and just 1km from the
Our aim is to provide exceptional customer service, ensuring you get the items you need in the shortest possible time and at a competitive price.
Pop in and see us or give us a call on 0266 321415 for assistance and advice.
Bruxner Highway, making it a convenient stopover destination.
Casual rooms feature wi-f access, fat screen TVs and mini fridges, plus tea and coffee making facilities. Upgraded rooms add kitchenettes, dining areas and balconies. Room
Service is available.
Complimentary parking, informal restaurant, and outdoor pool and BBQ Grills, as well as laundry facilities are all available for our guests.
Give us a ring to make a booking on 02 6621 4455.
Local Labor members from across the Ballina and Byron Shires gathered on Sunday for the announcement of Andrew Broadley as the Labor candidate for the state seat of Ballina. Mr Broadley is a teacher at Richmond River High in Lismore and lives in East Ballina with his wife Leanne and their four children.
Supporting the launch were Justine Elliot, Federal Assistant Minister and Member for Richmond, Janelle Saffn, State Member for Lismore and John Graham MLC, NSW Shadow Minister for Roads, the Night-time Economy, and the North Coast.
Justine Elliot praised Andrew’s commitment to his community, “Andrew and his family were one of the frst to show up and the last to leave, when Xavier College became an evacuation centre and temporary hospital as Ballina was inundated. When times are tough you need someone on your side, someone you can count on, and Andrew is that kind of person.”
“Andrew will be a strong voice in a Minns Labor Government and he’ll deliver real change for our community.”
John Graham welcomed Andrew Broadley’s preselection, “We need Andrew’s voice in a Labor Government, with education and more support for teachers set to be a key focus in the coming election… And he’s already taken the opportunity to chew my ear about local roads, particularly that dangerous Bruxner Highway turnoff to Alstonville and food proofng Ross Lane in Lennox Head and the Cumbalum interchange.”
Janelle Saffn said she had been impressed by Andrew as President of the Lismore Teachers Association and admired his work to stop the closure of Richmond River High following the devastating foods. “Andrew has shown
his ability to fght, he stood up for his colleagues, would not back down and won.
“I know Andrew is also passionate about the health of the Richmond River, I’m looking forward to working together as State Members on our community’s shared interest in a healthy and functioning river system.
Andrew Broadley said it was an honour to be nominated as the Labor candidate, “I’d not really considered entering politics, until the foods, until I saw Janelle Saffn in action. How can you not be inspired by that level of commitment? I saw someone up close, give everything for her community. I thought, that’s what Ballina needs.
Someone who will put our community frst.”
“With four very active teenagers, most of my community activity has been supporting their involvement in sports and the arts, and I know how important these volunteer organisations are in our community. But my personal passion is getting hands on to help river rehabilitation, it’s so satisfying to know that you are making a real difference in our local environment.”
“It’s hard not to be impressed by Justine and our new Federal Labor Government, so much has been accomplished in the frst six months, after a decade of inaction.
Action on early childhood education, climate, an Integrity Commission, improving wages and so much else.”
“Like all of you, I was appalled when the National Party politicised food grants and abandoned those families seriously impacted in Byron and Ballina Shires. This State LNP Government is old, tired and has ceased to care. We desperately need a new Labor Government and I want to be a powerful voice for our community in that Government.”
As the summer season begins, emergency services organisations have joined forces to urge communities to be safe and prepared following a horror year of natural disasters.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the summer months are notorious for a heightened risk of severe storms.
“As we have seen repeatedly this year natural disasters can affect anyone at any time, so the key safety tips of preparing a bush fire survival plan, not driving through floodwaters, swimming between the flags and making sure your home is fire-safe are just as important as ever,” Ms Cooke said.
“We want everyone to have a great summer season and the way to achieve this is to be prepared, know your risk and look out for each other.”
Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Paul Baxter said families need to remain vigilant over summer.
“Whether it’s planning for any potential bushfire danger in your area or something as simple as putting up lights on your Christmas tree, please keep safety in mind,” Commissioner Baxter said.
NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Rob Rogers said the persistent rain has led to good grass and crop growth across NSW, especially in western parts of the State.
“As the warmer weather sets in, the landscape will dry out,
increasing the risk of dangerous and fast-moving grass fires so I am urging people to know your risk and familiarise yourself with the new Fire Danger Rating System which has been simplified into four levels – Moderate, High, Extreme and Catastrophic – with clear actions for each level,” Commissioner Rogers said.
NSW State Emergency Service Commissioner Carlene York said that with many roads flooded and properties isolated, it is important for people to take extra care while driving in flood-affected areas.
“Many of the rescues completed by our SES volunteers have unfortunately been for people caught in their vehicles by floodwater, so if you need to be on the road in these areas please plan ahead and in the event you do come across a flooded road then stop, turn around and find another way,” Commissioner York said.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos and Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce reiterated the importance of water safety and waterway awareness.
“Boaters should always log on with Marine Rescue when heading out, and log off when they return via VHF Channel 16 or the free Marine Rescue App. It’s quick and simple and gives you the reassurance that our volunteers can keep an eye out for you,” Commissioner Tannos said.
“My message this summer is to swim at patrolled beaches, stay between the red and yellow flags, make sure you supervise your children and wear a life jacket
where it’s necessary,” Mr Pearce said.
NSW Volunteer Rescue Association Commissioner Mark Gibson warned motorists of the dangers of driving while fatigued.
“Driver fatigue is one of the biggest killers on NSW roads and can be just as dangerous as drink driving, which is why I am urging drivers to take regular breaks when travelling long distances,” Commissioner Gibson said.
Everyone is being urged to follow these steps:
1. Know your risk: think about the area you’re in and the types of disasters that could affect you;
2. Plan now for what you will do: talk with your family and plan for what you will do if a disaster affects your area or where you plan to holiday this summer;
3. Get your home ready: prepare your home by doing general home maintenance and checking your insurance coverage;
4. Be aware: find out how to prepare, what to do if there is a disaster in your area or where you intend to holiday this summer and connect with emergency services or keep on top of local news reports to stay informed; and
5. Look out for each other: share information with your family, friends and neighbours.
Mr James underlined the fact that each homeowner who registered for the program would be dealt with on a case-by-case basis, to see which stream they were eligible for.
March 2022 floods.
• Your home is a residence (house/ unit/duplex) not used primarily for business purposes
By SAMANTHA ELLEYNatalia Skillings-Smith lived for a week on Woodburn bridge in early March, as flood waters filled her house.
“I preferred sleeping on the bridge than at the evacuation centre,” she said.
“We had the horses we had to feed and water, so it was our choice to stay there.”
Of the seven horses she rescued, the riding
school owner had to put one down as its injuries were too far gone.
All this while getting over the effects of a gall bladder operation and a couple of broken ribs when saving the horses.
Now, nine months later, Natalie and many other Woodburn residents have recently attended one of the outreach meetings at the local Hall, held by the Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation (NRRC).
Led
the NRRC, he went through the outline of the Resilient Homes Program.
There are basically three streams of help offered to six thousand homeowners. Who those homeowners are is still to be decided and the type of help they will receive will be on a case by case basis.
The streams are:
• Home buybacks
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.
– the homeowner receives a payment for the purchase of their house and land at pre-flood prices.
• Home raising –funding of up to $100,000 to elevate liveable areas above a property-specific flood level
• Home retrofit –funding of up to $50,000 to retrofit and repair liveable areas to improve the resilience for future floods.
Eligibility includes: You are a homeowner (owner-occupier or landlord) of a residence (house/unit/duplex) in the Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley, or Tweed LGAs (Local Government Areas) prior to the February and March 2022 floods.
• You are the homeowner of a residence that was either
• Directly damaged by flood waters in the February and March 2022 floods, OR
• Damaged as a result of landslip caused by the February and
• You meet the impact eligibility criteria relevant to each program stream
A question-and-answer time was conducted and Mr James went through many queries regarding insurance, house raising, what would be done with land that was bought back, compensation and how it would be paid and ways to register.
For further information you can contact info@ nrrc.nsw.gov.au. To register for the Resilient Homes Program, go to nsw.gov.au/ resilienthomesprogram or visit nsw.gov.au/nrrc
Parents of school-aged children including those starting Kindergarten in 2023, now have more opportunity to claim a $500 voucher for Before and After School Care (BASC), just in time to help with the cost of vacation care over the summer holidays.
The NSW Government’s $155 million BASC Voucher Program helps families with household budget pressures, and more than 263,000 vouchers worth $500 have already been claimed by parents. Of these, more than 197,000 have been redeemed at a BASC service to help families with the cost of care.
Member of the Legislative Council, Aileen MacDonald, said we know that BASC vouchers were a huge success in NSW.
“I encourage families who have not already downloaded and redeemed a BASC voucher before the summer holidays to do so, this will help cover the cost of vacation care,” Mrs MacDonald said.
“These vouchers aim to alleviate some of the
fnancial pressures that we know occur after the summer break and the start of school.”
Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said parents should download and redeem the $500 vouchers available to them.
“Every family with a child going into Kindergarten in 2023 can now download their voucher until 31 January 2023 if they have not yet done so.
“These vouchers support students in getting quality before and after school care, but also allows parents to have more money back in their household budgets.”
The Before and After School Voucher Program is delivered in partnership with Service NSW.
Customers can register and apply online via a MyService NSW account, in the app, or by visiting their nearest Service Centre.
To apply or fnd out more information about BASC vouchers, visit: https://www.service. nsw.gov.au/bascvoucher
Richmond Valley Council has won a huge slice of a new $12 million Nationals in NSW Government program designed to restore and improve food-hit sporting infrastructure, Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis and Richmond Valley Mayor Robert Mustow announced on Monday.
“My good friend Mayor Mustow and his team were successful in obtaining $1,579,506 from our Sport Priority Needs Progam – that is more than one eighth of the total funding available,” Mr Gulaptis said.
“Key benefciaries across the Richmond Valley will be cricketers, basketball players and croquet enthusiasts.”
In welcoming the funding, Mayor Robert Mustow said sporting facilities in good condition and with suitable amenities encouraged more people to be involved in sport, which led to healthier communities.
Being a keen sportsperson, Cr Mustow said it was important to have ft-for-purpose facilities which would meet the current and future needs of the community.
“Council identifed the need for upgrades to a number of local sporting felds and this funding will help refresh these much-used community facilities,” he said.
Alister Henskens said the NSW Government is investing in food affected communities through the program.
plays a critical role in the fabric of our
Oval. $152,574 for underground irrigation
• Colley Park $495,205 to restore playing surfaces, replace basketball court, upgrade lighting and irrigation.
• Queen Elizabeth Park. $436,199 for new cricket nets and feld and drainage upgrade as well as $163,169 for a new shed.
• Stan Payne Oval. $179,456 for new cricket nets and feld upgrades.
• Windsor Park. $118,146 for feld upgrades and new bollards.
• Casino Croquet Club. $34,757 to upgrade playing services and access/safety improvements.
communities, keeping people healthy, active and socially connected,” Mr Henskens said.
Project details are:
• Woodburn
Councils had until Friday 9 December to apply for a second round of funding. This can be done online at sports. nsw.gov.au.
Mr Gulaptis will announce successful projects for the Clarence Valley Council area over the coming days.
“This is a great
investment in community infrastructure.”
“Grassroots sportCasino User Groups Coraki Tennis Woodburn Oval with RVC Mayor Stan Payne Oval Evans Head
GARDENING AUSTRALIA
ABC, 7.30pm
NBN, 7.30pm
Don’t let the joy of Christmas be usurped by a malady of unruly pots, pans, errant casserole dishes and mixing bowls.
enthusiastic British chef Jamie Oliver streamline your festive banquet. You’ll eliminate any family ghts over who is going to wash (and dry) a jumble of cooking paraphernalia and discover a new world of fuss-free festive feasting. Oliver’s easy and delicious go-to dishes include a simple salmon gravlax starter, and fresh ways to whip up the turkey, roasted potatoes, Brussels sprouts and, of course, Yorkshire pudding. It’s easy Christmas fare, with a delicious British air.
It might be a tad twee to say every episode of Gardening Australia is bursting with joyous zest, but it’s true: host Costa Georgiadis (above) and co-presenters revel in nature’s bounty week in and week out. It’s only tting that the nal instalment of the year is an extrafestive Christmas-themed episode. Tonight, expect the enthusiasm to jolt up a festive notch, with Georgiadis known to sport a Santa hat in the past. A Christmas song gets an impressive spin with Clarence Slockee; Sophie Thomson creates ower lanterns; Josh Byrne primes his garden for the holidays and Millie Ross whips up panettone. It’s a jubilant way for nature lovers – and Georgiadis’ fans – to round out the year. 1612
7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at today’s top stories.
7.30 Gardening Australia. (Final) Josh Byrne preps his garden for the holidays.
8.30 Vera. (Ma, R) DCI Vera must untangle a web of family and nancial intrigue when she investigates the murder of a businesswoman’s sister whose body was found in the river during a boat party being held by her sibling.
10.00 Troppo. (Malv, R) Amanda is shocked to discover the attack on Ted.
10.55 ABC Late News. (Final) Detailed coverage of the day’s events.
11.10 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. (R) UK-based panel show.
11.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Engineering Reborn: Port House, Warehouse Hostel, Sandford Underground Laboratory. (PG) Hosted by Rob Bell.
8.30 Inside Central Station: Lidcombe Self Harm. (PGa, R) Narrated by Shane Jacobson.
9.30 Concorde: Secrets Behind The Crash. (PGa, R) The story of Air France Flight 4590.
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Dear Mama. (Premiere, Madl)
3.20 Big Fat Quiz Of The Year 2021. (Mls, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
WorldWatch. 9.30 Shortland St. 11.00 The Movie Show. Noon Cocaine Trade Exposed: The Invisibles. 12.50 The Source. 1.40 Figure Skating. ISU Grand Prix. 2020 NHK Trophy. Replay. 3.40 WorldWatch. 5.05 Joy Of Painting. 6.05 Jeopardy! 6.30 FIFA World Cup Extra 2022. 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Hoarders.
9.20 The Language Of Love. 10.15 Love And Sex In An Age Of Pornography. 11.15 News. 12.10am Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Christmas At Maple Creek. (2020, PGal, R) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PG) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. (R) 6.00 The Talk. (PGa) 7.00 Ent. Tonight. (R) 7.30 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 8.00 10 News First: Breakfast. 8.30 Studio 10. (PG) 12.00 Dr Phil. (PGal, R) 1.00 Jamie’s One-Pan Christmas. (R) 2.00 Ent. Tonight. 2.30 GCBC. (R) 3.00 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 3.30 Freshly Picked. 4.00
6.00 7News Local.
6.30 7News @ 6:30.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Johanna Griggs and Charlie Albone check out Rosedale Farm Home and Garden. Karen Martini makes prawn linguine with zucchini, mint and chilli. Adam Dovile creates a coat rack that is both stylish and practical.
7.30 Cricket. Big Bash League. Game 4. Melbourne Stars v Hobart Hurricanes. From the MGC.
8.15 Cricket. Big Bash League. Game 5. Sydney Thunder v Adelaide Strikers. From GIANTS Stadium, Sydney.
11.45 MOVIE: Wind River. (2017, MA15+av, R) An animal tracker nds a body. Jeremy Renner, Elizabeth Olsen. 2.00 Home Shopping.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) 11.00 Swimming. 16th FINA World Championships (25m). Day 4. Heats. 1.00 Eatwell Christmas With Emma Dean. (PG, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 Afternoon
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current A air.
(R)
7.30 Swimming. 16th FINA World Championships (25m). Day 4. Finals. From the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre.
10.30 MOVIE: Deck The Halls. (2006, PGals, R) Two neighbours compete to see who can come up with the most impressive Christmas lights display. Danny DeVito, Matthew Broderick. 12.30 Council Of Dads. (Premiere, PGa) Faced with a health crisis, a father reveals his plan to create a “council of dads” that will help support his family.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Take Two. (R) Home shopping.
4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
Farm To Fork. 4.30 Jamie’s Easy Meals For Every Day. (R) 5.00 10 News First.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.
7.30 The Graham Norton Show. (R) Graham Norton is joined by Kate Winslet, Sir Lenny Henry, Jack Whitehall and Nadiya Hussain.
9.30 Just For Laughs Australia. (MA15+s, R) Stand-up comedy performances from Dave Thornton, Chris Ryan, Mike Goldstein and Reuben Kaye. 10.00 Just For Laughs Uncut. (MA15+als, R) Hosted by Nikki Osborne.
10.30 Arj Barker: We Need To Talk. (Mls, R) A performance by Arj Barker. 11.40 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news and events.
12.40 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)
CONSUMER ADVICE (P) Pre-school (C) Children (PG) Parental Guidance Recommended (M) Mature Audiences (MA15+) Mature Audiences Only (AV15+) Extreme Adult Violence (R) Repeat (CC) Closed Captions (a) Adult themes (d) Drug references (h) Horror (s) Sex references (l) Language (m) Medical procedures (n) Nudity (v) Violence. BEST ON THE BOX
7TWO
(1995)
(2015, M, Hungarian)
Of Cameron Post. (2018, M)
VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Ben And Holly. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.40 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 7.00 Odd Squad. 7.10 Shaun The Sheep. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Spicks And Specks. 8.00 Hard Quiz. 8.30 MOVIE: Love The Coopers. (2015, PG) 10.15 Doctor Who. 11.00 Back. 11.25 Archer. 12.05am QI. 12.35 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces. 1.25 ABC News Update. 1.30 Close. 5.00 Hoot Hoot Go! 5.10 Dot. 5.25 Pablo. 5.35 Late Programs. ABC TV PLUS (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Inside Phuket Airport. 1.00 The Bionic Woman. 2.00 Full House. 3.00 The Nanny. 3.30 3rd Rock. 4.00 That ’70s Show. 4.30 Raymond. 5.30 MOVIE: The Nanny Diaries. (2007, PG) 7.40 MOVIE: Mean Girls. (2004, M) 9.40 MOVIE: MonsterIn-Law. (2005, M) 11.40 Telenovela. 12.10am Queer Eye For The Straight Guy. 1.10 Below Deck Mediterranean. 2.00 Full House. 3.00 Bakugan: Evolutions. 3.30 Ninjago. 4.00 TV Shop. 5.00 Pokémon Journeys. 5.30 Yu-Gi-Oh! Sevens. 6am Home Shopping. 7.00 Fish Of The Day. 7.30 Creek To Coast. 8.00 WSL Presents. 10.00 American Pickers. 11.00 American Restoration. 11.30 Pawn Stars. 1pm Pawn Stars South Africa. 1.30 Pawn Stars UK. 2.00 Scrap Kings. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Aussie Lobster Men. 4.30 American Restoration. 5.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Game 4. Melbourne Stars v Hobart Hurricanes. 7.30 Carnage. 8.30 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood 2. (1985, M) 10.30 MOVIE: New Jack City.
(1991,
6am
7.30 Seinfeld. 9.00 Becker. 10.00 The Middle. 11.30 The King Of Queens. 12.30pm Frasier. 1.30 Seinfeld. 3.00 The King Of Queens. 4.00 Becker. 5.00 Frasier. 6.00 Friends. 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. 9.30 Mom. 11.00 Frasier. Midnight Home Shopping. 1.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. 2.30 The Late Late Show With James Corden. 3.30 Becker. 4.30 Home Shopping. 5.30 Joseph Prince.
SKY NEWS (53) NITV (34) SBS FOOD (33)
6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Come Dine With Me Couples. 1.30 Tuscan Kitchen. 2.00 Cook’s Pantry. 2.30 Hemsley + Hemsley: Healthy & Delicious. 3.00 Barefoot Contessa. 3.30 Food Markets: In The Belly Of The City. 4.30 India Unplated. 5.00 Gourmet Farmer. 5.30 Come Dine With Me Couples. 6.30 Nigella Express. 7.00 The Cook Up. 7.30 Gordon Ramsay’s Christmas Cookalong. 9.00 Gok Wan’s Easy Asian. 10.00 Donal’s Meals In Minutes. 10.30 The Cook Up. 11.00 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. Noon Kungka Kunpu. 12.10 MOVIE: Bran Nue Dae. (2009) 1.45 Songlines On Screen. 2.00 Shortland St. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Bushwhacked! 3.25 Little J And Big Cuz. 3.40 Red Dirt Riders. 3.55 Future Dreaming. 4.00 Grace Beside Me. 4.30 Thalu. 5.00 Our Stories. 5.30 Songlines On Screen. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Great Blue Wild. 7.30 Barrumbi Kids. 8.00 MOVIE: Bush Christmas. (1983, PG) 9.40 First Nations Bedtime Stories. 9.50 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. 10.50 Late Programs.
9LIFE (84)
Island Of Bryan. 6.00 House Hunters Int. 7.00 House Hunters. 7.30 Yard Crashers. 8.30 Lakefront Bargain Hunt Renovation. 9.30 Building O The Grid. 10.30 Mountain Made. 11.30 Late Programs.
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 Hardgrave. 7.00 Bernardi. 8.00 The Media Show. 8.30 The US Report. 9.00 NewsNight. 10.00 NewsNight. 10.30 Piers Morgan Uncensored. 11.30 Late Programs.
Please Note: Programs are correct at the time of print and are subject to change by the
Agents yarded a total of 1,196 head at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange regular prime sale on Wednesday 7 December. Young cattle were again well supplied, while cows dominated the grown cattle section. The yarding of young cattle consisted mainly of light and medium weight weaners with steers and heifers well represented, and there was a few more light yearlings offered this week. Quality was fairly mixed with several pens of well fnished cattle, however there was a large percentage of light plain weaners through the sale.
Cow prices held frm this week averaging 274c/kg and reaching a top price of 326c/kg. Lighter heifer
LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK WEEK
ENDING 9/12/2022
Livestock numbers were similar across the selling spectrums this week as the penultimate sales were held. The stock presented was on a whole on the lighter side for most descriptions except the pork markets where there is a major selling season for their product. Cattle saw 838 head for the weekly sale, sheep and lamb numbers were at 1399 head. The markets were consistent with what is happening as we move closer to the Festive season and the holiday periods.
Vealer steers averaged 522.3c/kg topping at 645.2c/ kg or $1313.14 to $1711.95
Vealer heifers averaged 485.9c/kg topping at 630.2c/ kg or $1222.67 to $1658.16
Agents and vendors today presented a total of 1399 head to the local weekly sale. The yarding was a blend of good export lambs, good trade lambs and some tidy feed on lambs. The mutton supply was dominated by ewe and lamb units as well as a few well-conditioned lines of trade and export mutton. The buyers were in attendance but were reticent to push forward for their orders unless the stock on hand was exceptional. The market was subdued with lambs topping at $212 to average $151.10 ($3down), hoggets topped at $138 to average $89.74($20down), ewes topped at $100 to average $48.26($5up), wethers topped at $125 to average $84.71($9down), rams topped at $102 to average $57.94($21down), lamb rams topped at $120 to average $90.94($34down), ewe lambs topped at 157 to average $140.23($9down). The total yarding of
prices were softer with those up to 250kg averaging 488c/kg and topping their category at 698c/kg. Heavier heifers over 250kg saw a slight increase averaging 412c/kg and reaching a top of 576c/kg.
Bull prices remained steady this week with 17 head sold averaging 267c/kg and 655kg. Lighter steer prices were easier with those up to 250kg averaging 531c/kg and reaching a top of 736c/kg. Heavier steers over 250kg saw an increase averaging 434c/ kg and topping their market at 626c/kg. A fair number of bullocks sold on the day averaged 332c/ kg and reached a top of 380c/kg.
Vealer prices were slightly dearer averaging 521c/ kg and 207kg and reaching a top of 688c/kg.
Following on from Wednesday’s prime sale, the Casino Beef Week Potential Steer Sale was held at
Feeder steers averaged 437.9c/kg topping at 486.2c/ kg or $1610.80 to 2323.23
Feeder heifers averaged 390.2c/kg topping at 440c/ kg or $1401.25 to $1911.91
Yearling steers averaged 451.1c/kg topping at 696.2c/kg or $1546.76 to $2367.08
Yearling heifers averaged 417.6c/kg topping at 520.2c/kg or $1477.08 to $2438.82
Steers averaged 394.7c/kg topping at 435.2c/kg or $1612.93 to 2388.48
Heifers averaged 339.1c/kg topping at 400c/kg or $1426.75 to $2109.47
Cows averaged 292.1c/kg topping at 335.2c/kg or $1441.50 to $2338.00
Bulls averaged 340.7c/kg topping at 550.2c/kg or $1300.39 to $2572.01
Lambs topped at $212 to average $151.10 down $3/ head
Hoggets topped at $138 to average $89.74 down $20/ head
1399 head averaged $122.34 a drop of $6/head for the sale.
Cobby & Katrina Hobbs sold Dorper lambs 40.2kg to Jock Young Meats for $131, 33.5kg to restockers for $107, 43kg hoggets to restockers for $91, ewes to Take IT Easy Meats for $50
John & Marion Skinner sold Dorset lambs 57.3kg to Thomas Foods for $180, 67.5kg ewes to Eversons for $100
Vermont Past Co sold 1st x lambs 47.5kg to Thomas Foods for $205, to Warwick Meats for $120, 57kg shorn lambs to Thomas Foods for $195, 55.3kg to Thomas Foods for $184, 50.5kg unshorn to GR Prime for $178.50
Lawrence & Linda Springborg sold 52.5kg Dorper lambs to GR Prime for $185
Tim & Mary Turvey sold Xbred lambs 46.6kg to Thomas Foods for $165, 44.2kg to GR Prime for $136, White Suffolk ewe hoggets to restockers for $130 Geoff Rathmell sold Dorper lambs 48kg to Grants
the NRLX with 29 quality steers going under the hammer. The top priced steer of the day was a 310kg Limousin sold by Josh & Kirsty Sawtell to AJ & KM Gould for $3,069. The average price for the sale was 730c/kg with a top of 1,240c/kg.
Ray White Rural held a store sale at the NRLX on Friday 9 December with 1,373 head going under the hammer. Steers topped their category at 846c/ kg and averaged 594c/kg and 243kg whilst heifers reached a top of 680c/kg and averaged 541c/kg and 228kg. Cows reached a top price of $1,780 whilst Cows & Calves topped their market at $3,580.
The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange will be closed for the Christmas break from Wednesday 21 December and will re-open on Monday 9 January. The frst sale back for 2023 will be Wednesday 11 January. Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year from the NRLX team!
Ewes topped at $100 to average $48.26 up $5/head Wethers topped at $125 to average $84.71 a drop of $9/head
Rams topped at $102 to average $57.94 a drop of $21/head
Lamb rams topped at $120 to average $90.94 a drop of $34/head
Ewe lambs topped at $157 to average $140.23 a drop of $9/head
Total yarding of 1399 averaged $122.34 a drop of $6/ head
Pork sold from $160 to $224, Light Pork sold from $210 to $219, Stores sold from $88 to $181
Ducklings sold to $22.50, trio of call ducks sold to $22.50, Guinea Fowl sold to $30, Hens sold to $25, Hen & Chick units sold to $17.50, Roosters sold to $17.50, Duck with a dozen ducklings sold to $70
Quality Meats for $178, 56kg hoggets to Take IT Easy Meats for $100
Rory & Kathy Frost sold Dorper lambs 42.27kg to Luck Meats for $176
Ken Kelly sold sucker Dorper lambs 39.6kg to Eversons for $100, 35.6kg to Highchester Meats
Anthony Collins sold Dorper x lambs, suckers 33.75 off the ewes to restockers for $115, ewe & lamb units to restockers for $130
Melbin Family sold Dorper hogget rams 63kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $80, ewe and lamb units to restockers for $180
John P Murphy sold Dorper ram hoggets to Take IT Easy Meats for $80, rams to Whites Trading for $60, ewe & Lamb units to restockers for $102, ewes to Eversons for $41
John Schonrock sold Dohne wethers shorn to Eversons for $125
With the arrival of summer, residents across NSW are being urged to prepare for severe weather with an increased grass fre risk this season, following a horror year of fooding.
Member of the Legislative Council, Aileen MacDonald, said despite the persistent heavy rainfall there is an increased risk of grass fres.
“The wet weather has caused widespread vegetation growth which means we’re going into summer facing the most signifcant grass fre threat in more than a decade,” Mrs MacDonald said.
“All it takes is a few days of hot, dry and windy conditions for grass fres to spark so it’s important that households and landholders prepare now and have a plan in place
for what to do if an emergency takes hold.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience, Steph Cooke, said in addition to fre danger the summer months also bring a heightened risk of severe storms.
“We are enduring a third consecutive La Nina which has led to widespread severe storms and fooding, and unfortunately we could see more of this before the end of summer,” Ms Cooke said.
“As we have seen repeatedly this year an emergency can strike at any moment which is why we need to remain vigilant of the risks of severe weather.”
Mrs MacDonald said that following simple safety advice could be the difference between staying safe and catastrophe.
“Whether you’re spending the summer holiday season at home or travelling, I urge everyone to follow the key safety tips of preparing a bush fre survival plan, not driving through foodwaters, swimming between the fags and making sure your home is fre-safe,” Mrs MacDonald said.
“Being aware and prepared is a shared responsibility, so always think about the area you’re in and take the necessary precautions.”
Everyone is being urged to follow these steps:
1. Know your risk: think about the area you’re in and the types of disasters that could affect you;
2. Plan now for what you will do: talk with your family and plan for what you will do if a disaster affects your area or where you plan to holiday this summer; 3. Get your home ready: prepare your home by doing general home maintenance and checking your insurance coverage; 4. Be aware: fnd out
The locust population remained at generally low levels across inland eastern Australia –except for parts of the Flinders and North East Pastoral districts of South Australia and Lower Western district of New South Wales where some bands and swarms were present. No surveys were conducted in November in Victoria and much of NSW due to widespread fooding preventing access.
Primary Industries and Regions South Australia (PIRSA) and Biosecurity Queensland conducted ground surveys in areas where populations were reported or previously identifed. Consistent Isolated-density adults were detected over much of Queensland, North East Pastoral district of SA and Upper Western district of NSW with occasional Scattereddensity adults and Present-density nymphs. These fndings indicate that spring generation nymphs had survived and developed into adults in some egg-overwintering areas in part of southern
inland eastern Australia.
Across inland eastern Australia, November rainfall ranged from below 10 mm in the Birdsville area to over 100 mm in some southeastern areas, at average and above average levels in the north to very much above average level in the south, where highest on record fell over many areas. Apart from the arid interior, much of inland eastern Australia received more than 25 mm rain in November and this led to a continuation of the widespread fooding across much of NSW and Victoria. Inland areas recorded below average (1-3 degrees) monthly mean temperatures with much of NSW 3 degrees below average. The Bureau of Meteorology
forecast below average rainfall for December over the arid interior but generally about average for summer over inland eastern Australia, with above average maximum temperatures over the arid interior but below average over the eastern part of the inland, with similar patterns for minimum temperatures.
The overall outlook for summer is for low to medium density population levels to continue across inland eastern Australia, with localised medium to high densities in parts of the SA Flinders and North East Pastoral districts and NSW Western districts. Further medium densities are possible after any successful breeding in the Central West and
North West districts of Queensland. Adults will continue fedging from spring generation nymphs until mid-December in some southern parts of inland eastern Australia with some localised swarm formation expected. Some summer generation bands may hatch from localised breeding from mid-December onwards. Migration and dispersal into adjacent areas can occur under disturbed weather conditions. Localised breeding can occur in other parts of the inland and produce some higher densities.
There is a low to moderate likelihood of region-wide infestations developing in the SA Flinders and North East Pastoral districts and
NSW Lower Western district. Widespread highdensity infestations are unlikely during summer. Spur-throated Locust (Austracris guttulosa) The overall population was at low to medium levels. Surveys in November identifed consistent Scattered to Low-Numerous density adults in the North West, Central West, and Maranoa and Warrego districts of Queensland. Biosecurity Queensland identifed similar adult densities in the Central Highlands district. Isolated and occasional Scattered-density adults were identifed in other parts of Queensland and Western districts of New South Wales and North East Pastoral district of South Australia. The detection of mid-instar nymphs in early November indicates that some early-season breeding has occurred. Suitable habitat conditions during summer will encourage continuous breeding that may develop into some localised medium-high density nymphs. A wet spring and average summer in tropical and subtropical
how to prepare, what to do if there is a disaster in your area or where you intend to holiday this summer and connect with emergency services or keep on top of local news reports to stay informed; and 5. Look out for each other: share information with your family, friends and neighbours.
Queensland should facilitate higher reproduction and nymphal survival rates, which would result in more localised medium –high-density populations. There is a medium risk of a widespread low-medium density infestation. Some localised high-density infestations may develop in subtropical Queensland in summer.
Migratory Locust (Locusta migratoria) The population is likely to be at very low level. Surveys in November did not detect any migratory locusts. However, Biosecurity Queensland identifed occasional adults in the Central Highlands district. Under current and future favourable habitat conditions, breeding should continue in the Central Highlands and surrounding areas. Nevertheless, highdensity infestations are unlikely to result from the current very low population level.
There is a very low risk of a widespread infestation developing during summer
The dire food crisis continuing to grip huge areas of land and communities within New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia has prompted the urgent relaunch of Rural Aid’s Buy a Bale rescue campaign in the lead up to Christmas.
Thousands of rural families face a bleak festive season, with recovery from what has been deemed Australia’s most expensive food event hampered by ongoing rain across the more than 130 local government areas already declared disaster zones.
Rural Aid has now made an urgent plea for donations through the Buy a Bale program, which frst came to prominence when it raised $100 million for drought-affected farmers between 2015 and 2020.
Rural Aid CEO, John Warlters, said the scale of this disaster made it necessary to bring Buy a Bale back.
“These foods have had unprecedented impact on rural Australiansfamilies are losing their homes and livelihoods and entire towns are
being wiped out,” Mr Warlters said.
“Hay supplies are running out and stranded animals are drowning and starving. Crops are rotting in the ground.
“It’s time to bring Buy a Bale back, not only to provide much-needed fodder deliveries, but also to offer fnancial assistance, clean drinking water, volunteer and counselling support to Aussie farming families facing this crisis.”
Rural Aid predicts at least a two to three-year recovery for communities, with the funds required to adequately support
farmers and families estimated to be in excess of $50 million.
With concerns the extent of the disaster has not been fully communicated to policy makers, corporate Australia and the broader community, Mr Warlters is urging governments and private donors to commit to prioritising the wellbeing of affected communities.
“We’re ready to execute an extensive recovery support program based on a tried and tested approach, but we need as much help as we can get,” he said.
“With the generous support of the broader
community, we can help keep our farmers going, get them back on track, keep homegrown produce on our tables, and stand with our mates in regional Australia.
“These families need help, and they need it now. Without it, they face a frightening and uncertain time as the rest of the country gears up to celebrate Christmas.”
Deniliquin farmer and Rural Aid board member, Airlie Landale, said the foods have been catastrophic.
“It is now summer, yet it still feels like winter is rolling on and haunting us. It feels wrong to be speaking about too much
rain, but these foods have taken a toll on so many,” Ms Landale said.
“Farmers have lost thousands upon thousands of hectares of crop, producers have lost livestock, fences and their homes, and rural communities and businesses have been isolated and inundated
with water.
“It will take months – if not years – for people to recover, but I know the strength and resilience of our rural people will once again shine though.”
All donations received
by Rural Aid ensure the ongoing provision of critical economic and empathetic assistance to farmers, including the expansion of their national mental health and wellbeing program.
To support Rural Aid or make a donation go to: www.buyabale.com.au
Specialist food rescue operators from Singapore will touch down in Sydney this morning to assist with the ongoing food emergency across NSW.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the Singapore Civil Defence Force has dispatched a team of 18 food rescue specialists.
“The fooding we are currently seeing, on top of disastrous
fooding already this year, is stretching our emergency services to the very limit,” Ms Cooke said.
“This unprecedented fooding requires an unprecedented response and thankfully our emergency services friends from overseas are answering the call for help.
“This support will greatly help our local crews led by the SES who have not stopped responding to fooding for a single day this
year. It will give all our wonderful volunteers and staff much needed relief as they gear up to respond to fooding well into next year.”
NSW State Emergency Service (SES)
Commissioner Carlene York said the assistance would complement the 24 incident management personnel from New Zealand.
“Our volunteers have worked tirelessly, sacrifcing many hours away from their loved ones and putting their
own safety on the line to support communities through this devastating fooding,” Commissioner York said.
“The support from our overseas counterparts is greatly appreciated and will help our crews get through this diffcult time.”
The food rescue operators will undertake a practical induction before being deployed to Parkes and Wagga Wagga.
The international
support has been requested by the SES and coordinated by Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) in accordance with the provisions under the United Nations International Search and Rescue Advisory Group.
Commissioner Paul Baxter said the generous assistance will give all food rescue crews a chance to recover from their around-the-clock operations.
“Flood rescue operators across the
board have had to be rotated in-and-out of the feld since the food emergencies began,” Commissioner Baxter said.
“As you can imagine, we have to manage their fatigue during this ongoing crisis and this assistance will allow food rescue operators to have a well-earned break.”
Investment in housing, growing and upskilling the health workforce, ensuring access to quality learning at every stage of life and improving transport and digital connectivity will be key focuses of the NSW Government’s new vision for the regions.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole today unveiled Our Vision for Regional Communitiesa new strategy to ensure regional NSW remains the best place to live, work, play and raise a family.
“This is a vision for the regional NSW we are building with our local communities, backed by real actions we know will make a real difference to people’s everyday lives,” Mr Toole said.
“Over the past decade, we’ve invested billions in the infrastructure our regions need and in growing regional economies.
“This vision shows how we’ll build on that foundation and ensure regional communities
have access to the education and health services they deserve and attract the workforce we need to deliver those services. “It will ensure families can fnd a home by tackling housing pressures and deliver the infrastructure and services they need in their local community.”
Mr Toole used the strategy’s launch to announce:
• A new welcome experience to be piloted across eight regional locations to support key workers to relocate to the regions and put down roots
• A $5 million investment in scholarships to upskill existing health workers and attract new staff to regional communities
• A trial of contactless payments on regional bus services in Dubbo and Bathurst to make services easier to use Our Vision for Regional Communities is
backed by a detailed three-year action plan that outlines key initiatives that will bring the vision to life.
Initiatives already underway under the plan include:
• A $2.4 billion investment in strengthening the regional health workforce including new approaches to training and incentives
• A $174 million investment in key worker housing that will deliver hundreds of new homes for teachers, police and health workers over the next four years
• A $98 million investment in a new $250 travel card for regional apprentices and university students to ease the cost of travel for training and classes
A $160 million investment in social and sporting infrastructure, and community programs like bike
paths, playgrounds and community centres through the Stronger Country Communities Fund
• A $59 million investment in the next generation including $40 million for local initiatives shaped by youth for youth
“We are not just investing for now, we’re investing for the future,” Mr Toole said.
“Our vision recognises that regional communities are diverse and need local solutions that work for them –and that’s what we’ll deliver.”
Our Vision for Regional Communities and Action Plan 2023-2025 is a futurefocused strategy with key priorities across healthcare, education, communities and places and regional homes.
For more information about Our Vision for Regional Communities, visit: nsw.gov.au/ ourvision.
Meat & Livestock Australia’s (MLA) Market Information team has fnished the fnal stage of its wide-ranging indicator review, which has included extensive consultation with producers, industry representatives and other stakeholders.
The aim of the review was to:
• ensure the current offering of indicators is accurate, relevant and refective of current and future market trends by developing new, retiring old and improving existing indicators across sheep and cattle
• engage with industry to understand their needs for new or improved indicators to better refect market environment
• make continual improvement to deliver greater value to levy payers by providing additional and tailored data to inform business decisions.
According to Ripley Atkinson, Senior Market Information Analyst at MLA, the implementation of these changes will be made in a step-by-step, staged approach over the coming months to allow users ample time to become familiar with these changes.
“This approach aims to deliver continual improvement over time to the industry,” Mr Atkinson said.
“The review process includes the development of new indicators in areas which were identifed as lacking publicly available market coverage, including the online marketplace.
“In 2023, online
specifc indicators for young cattle, lambs and mutton will be released.”
Several new features have been added to the existing indicators on each dashboard to allow users a more tailored data experience, ensuring the information can be made specifc to each user’s needs.
This will allow information to support business decisions more readily.
The new features include:
• all indicators will be live – meaning after every sale is completed the indicator’s price will be updated throughout the day, rather than once at the end of every day
• users will be able to select and flter for weight ranges within each indicator to ensure market performance can be cross referenced with users’ current animal weights before selling decisions are made
• fat and muscle scores will now be fltered by the user themselves for both sheep and cattle if they choose to do so.
As part of the frst stage of implementation, a new restocker yearling heifer indicator was released on Friday 9 December.
This indicator will access its data from the current National Livestock Reporting Service (NLRS) database and aim to provide users valuable insights to female heifer prices destined to be future breeders.
This will be particularly important to understand rebuild and liquidation intentions from producers in different regions across the country.
Ray was born on 30th June 1930 at Rock Valley to parents Arthur and Mary Newton. Mary’s father, Denis Jordan drove the ferry at Wyrallah and Mary worked at one of the seven hotels at Wyrallah.
Ray left Rock Valley at the age of 6 years with his family when they moved to Lillian Rock near Nimbin. He attended Lillian Rock school along with his brother Harold and sisters Emily and Florence.
Glenda was born 2nd May 1934 to parents Richard Henry and Annie Elizabeth Akers, nee McClelland.
Glenda’s mother Annie was born in West Cambewarra, near Nowra on 13th February 1892. Annie’s father was James McClelland. She was a child to the second marriage. Early in her life, Annie contracted polio and suffered a leg deformity. She had to be carried everywhere, although on her own she relied on horses to get around. They frst lived at Gundurimba before moving to Blue Knob. When Annie was 26, she had an operation in Grafton. It was hoped the surgery would enable her to walk. Annie’s surgery greatly improved her mobility although it continued to give her problems with walking.
The Doctor was Earle Christmas Grafton Page who later become Sir Earle Page who in 1939 would serve as the eleventh Prime Minister of Australia.
Glenda’s father Richard was born 22nd June 1890. Apparently, his parents were taking their wool clip by dray to the markets in Brisbane and it was on the way back to Cunnumulla that he was born under the wagon. When Mount Burrell area was developed in 1910, Richard and his brothers took up the opportunity to take up the land. The property was right under Blue Knob. The men worked hard at clearing the 260
acres they had acquired. First there was the farm called “Fairbanks” then later “Bonnie Glen”. The men used cross-cut saws, axes and bullock teams to clear the land. The timber was sent to Murwillumbah for milling then bought back to build their homes.
marriage the house was only half built but after acquiring more timber he was able to complete the construction of the home on “Fairbanks”. A favourite saying of her mother when visitors came to visit was “The children could be seen and not heard!” Glenda
day was observed in schools throughout Australia on May 24th since 1905. A picnic was always held along with sack races and egg and spoon races for the children to compete. Owing to dwindling numbers at the school, Glenda spent her fnal
the milk. In later years they purchased a milking machine powered by a diesel engine. Glenda’s sisters Gloria and Delma used to run down to the dairy when they woke up in the mornings with their clothes in their hand. As their mother would be down there
also remembers at that time during the War with food rationing, mainly for butter, meat, sugar, petrol and clothing. Everyone would be issued with coupons.
The only time the family got to the beach was Boxing Day and News Year Day when all the local farm kids would climb into the back of a livestock truck that was normally used to transport pigs and cattle to the saleyards.
George Cox would rig his truck up with seats and a tarp over the top for shade and drive them to Tweed Heads or Coolangatta. They were good indeed.
Christmas time was a joy to the family that is when they got all the goodies: soft drink, puddings, plums, cherries and apricots.
They only received fzzy drinks on Christmas Day. Even though Glenda’s father suffered with severe arthritis he always grew his own
It was on one of Richard’s trips to Blue Knob for supplies that he met up with Annie. They were married in 1919 and moved onto the “Fairbanks” property. Then along came the children John Earle who died in infancy, Gloria Hope, Delma June, Lola Agnes, Richard Henry, Mona Marie and Glenda. In those early years of their
rarely saw people outside her family, when she did, they were the neighbours. They had no electricity and very few modern conveniences.
Telephones came through after World War Two when Glenda was about 12.
Glenda began her education at Mount Burrell Public School.
Empire Day was a day that Glenda loved. This
year at Blue Knob School then at the high school in Nimbin.
Glenda has fond memories of growing up on the farm running around in her bare feet and swimming in the creek. During the 1920’s Glenda’s parents began a dairy production enterprise, milking by hand and using a handoperated separator to separate the cream from
milking. The girls would get dressed and placed in a large box till milking was fnished.
In those early days the road was just gravel. During the War years there would be a convoy of trucks that would wind their way around the road. At one stage, the soldiers camped on the Akers property. They lived in tents there for a few months. Glenda
vegetables. He would also grow potatoes and pumpkins in between the rows of corn. Sugar was purchased in a fortypound bag and four in a twenty fve pound bag.
The Mount Burrell Post Offce was just down the hill from their property. It was run by the Betterridge Family.
Glenda was designated the roll of regularly going down to collect
the mail.
As a teenager Glenda attended dances in the country halls at Kunghur, Blue Knob, Nimbin and Wadeville. She would travel to these places with friends from neighbouring farms. It was here Glenda met this young man by the name of Ray Newton. Ray partnered Glenda when she made her debut at the age of 17 years at the Nimbin Hall.
Attending the local country show at Nimbin was a treat. The family would step out in their best clothes. A great day for all and looked forward to it each year. While growing up Glenda always had hand
- me - down clothes so when the time come to learn sewing, she did and loved making her own clothes. Glenda loved listening to the radio and riding horses.
Horses were a huge part of Ray and Glenda’s lives. As that was Ray’s only mode of transport when he visited Glenda at the farm. Ray and Glenda were married at St. Carthages Cathedral in Lismore in 1953. Glenda made her own wedding dress. Ray and Glenda did not own a car so after the reception at the Commercial Hotel they left on their honeymoon on a bus from New England Bus Company for their frst
night in Yamba. Next morning, they caught a bus to Grafton then the daylight train to Sydney then off to the Blue Mountains touring around for 5 weeks.
They moved in with Ray’s parents for eighteen months
then they moved to Reg Robson’s farm at Tucki Tucki where Ray was a farm hand also worked at Hepburn and Son Earthmoving. Ray and Glenda stayed there 7 years then onto Monaltrie in 1964 where Ray worked for the
Council.
In 1972 Ray and Glenda moved into Dalley Street, Lismore. Ray has always had a great interest in poultry where he showed them around the local shows and even as far as Sydney and Brisbane. He showed White Leghorn,
Minorcas, Pekin poultry with great success. He still has a few Pekin Bantams in the back yard.
At the time of printing, it is sad to hear that Ray has gone into care at St Josephs. Glenda continues living on in their home.
Australian agriculture is still on track for an outstanding 12 months, despite the impact of the devastating foods in the eastern states.
Executive Director of ABARES Dr Jared Greenville said today’s release of the ABARES Agricultural Commodities and Crop Reports shows the sector setting new benchmarks in export commodities and high yields for winter crops.
“The gross value of agricultural production is forecast to be a nearrecord $85 billion in 2022-23, just shy of the record set the previous year,” Dr Greenville said.
“Meanwhile, the winter crop is forecast to be the second largest on record at over 62 million tonnes.
Livestock production is expected to hold steady, contributing $34 billon to the national total.
“Another bumper year combined with high commodity prices means Australia’s agricultural exports are forecast to break records at over $72 billion in 2022-23.
“While the spring rain has impacted production, yields and quality in some parts of the country, some states are experiencing their best winter crops on record.
“Crops in Western Australia and South Australia beneftted the most from spring conditions, with total production in both states forecast to reach new record levels.
Total production in Queensland is forecast to reach the second highest on record, despite parts of the Darling Downs missing
out on plantings after being impacted by the foods.
“In other parts of the country, the results are mixed with both fooding and waterlogging impacting winter crop production.
“We saw a record amount of crop planted in Victoria this year.
At the state level, high yields in the Mallee and the Wimmera will offset crop losses in central and northern border regions. However, the full picture of damage to crops from extensive waterlogging remains an unknown.
“Unfortunately, New South Wales has borne the brunt of the damage from the spring rains and subsequent foods.
Record spring rainfall followed above average rain in August, which has led to losses. The total production for New South Wales has been revised down by 2 million tonnes since our last Crop Report in September.
“Considerable uncertainty remains over winter crop harvest progress and grain quality in New South Wales and Victoria given ongoing high rainfall, which could lead to downgrades in production value. Harvests in Victoria and New South Wales are likely to run well into summer.
“The current conditions are a reminder of the volatility of Australia’s climate. While it’s impressive how resilient the agriculture sector has been, it shows how events like foods and droughts can impact regions and Australian farmers.”
The NSW Government’s fnal agritourism policy has come into effect today, making it simpler and easier for farmers to start and operate agritourism businesses across the state.
Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes, Anthony Roberts visited
planning approvals.
“Whether its farm stays, cafes, cellar doors, retreats, roadside stalls, fruit picking, or small wedding venues, farmers in NSW now have the opportunity to increase cash fow right on their doorstep,” Mr Roberts said.
them to not only recover, but also to thrive.
“This policy will support and expand the booming agriculture industry. Landowners wanting to diversify their income will be able to start an agritourism business without lodging a development
agritourism policy have been welcomed by industry and stakeholders.
“This policy cuts arduous red tape and makes it easier for farmers to diversify without the need to go through an expensive and time consuming development application process,” Mr Saunders said.
“The NSW Government recognises agritourism as a fantastic way of educating people about where their food and fbre comes from and also putting on display some of the wonderful things regional NSW has to offer.”
Bilpin today to speak to farmers who can now diversify their income by including agritourism experiences through fast-tracked, or without,
application, as long as conditions are met.”
Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW Dugald Saunders said the changes to the
The NSW Government will work with councils to monitor the policy and how it’s operating, and make sure it’s balancing the needs of farmers and the community.
For more information visit www.planning.nsw. gov.au/agritourism
“Our primary producers have battled through foods, bushfres, drought and the COVID-19 pandemic, and we want to make it easier for
A new Biosecurity Collaboration Agreement will establish a National Forest Pest Surveillance Program to improve the early detection of exotic forest pests and the likelihood of their eradication.
This agreement will enable industry and government to carry out risk-based forest pest surveillance activities to early detect and manage new pest incursions in Australia through a wellcoordinated national surveillance program.
of its kind, committing to a consistent and harmonised approach with targeted expert surveillance, training and support of various stakeholders, and planning and reporting.
“This is a great example of how strong partnerships across governments and industry can improve our national biosecurity system.
The NSW Government has failed to follow their own consultation process for the Fisheries Management Amendment (Enforcement Powers) Bill 2022 with both the Aboriginal Fishing Advisory Council (AFAC) and the Recreational NSW Fishing Advisory Council being briefed on it the same day that it was announced in the NSW Parliament.
The new enforcement powers contained in the bill will have far reaching consequences for First Nations mob and recreational fshers alike with no consultation being conducted with the broader community. Enforcement offcers will be able to stop and search people in relation to anything under the Fisheries Act without the need to reasonably
suspect that an offence has been committed.
The Government is introducing these powers despite the non-commencement of a section of the Fisheries Act that protects Aboriginal cultural fshing rights that passed the Parliament 13 years ago. Aboriginal people in NSW are already disproportionately charged with fshing offences while engaged with their cultural fshing practices and without protection will be further targeted by enforcement offcers under these changes.
Greens MP and spokesperson for First Nations justice, Sue Higginson, said “This bill has arrived into the parliament without the consultation that is required and threatens to damage the trust between the Government and the AFAC,
“Consultation is a genuine process that requires listening and consideration from both sides. Minister Dugald Saunders has not consulted on this bill, in his communication to the advisory councils no mention was made of consultation or even briefngs. He informed the councils that the Department would run through the details of the bill but this occurred just hours before it was introduced to the Parliament,
“The Greens will move to amend some of the worst parts of this bill so that Aboriginal cultural fshing and Native Title rights and interests are protected from these far reaching new enforcement powers but the Government needs to come clean with the community about how this bill was brought into the Parliament without
following process, “It is important that Fisheries Offcers are enabled to uphold the law when it comes to illegal fshing but this bill is a hammer when it comes to the breadth of powers included. The recent report into the non-commencement of protection for Aboriginal cultural fshing outlines the evidence that First Nations mob are being criminalised, with dire consequences, for practising their cultural rights,
“The Government has had 13 years to protect Aboriginal cultural fshing but here we are now in the last week of Parliament sittings before the 2023 state election with the NSW Nationals trying to smash through legislation that has not been taken for consultation,” Ms Higginson said.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said this agreement was timely, given the increasing levels of trade, movement of people and commodities, and climate change contributing to an upward trend in the number of exotic forest pest incursions.
“A nationally coordinated surveillance program—supported by an effective diagnostic network—is needed to effectively mitigate the risk of exotic forest pests establishing in Australia,” Minister Watt said.
“Our forests represent the seventh largest forest estate in the world comprising native, commercial, and urban forests.
“New pests in our forests would have signifcant impacts on the Australian economy, trade and market access, environment, and way of life.
“Ensuring that forest stakeholders and government agencies work together in partnership is critical to achieving these aims.
“The landmark agreement is the frst
“It is also very timely as we know climate change can stress trees, making them more susceptible to pests, and a warming climate is changing the movement and range of pests to threaten new areas of forest.”
Plant Health Australia CEO, Sarah Corcoran said the early detection of exotic plant pest and diseases minimised the potential signifcant economic and social risks and improved the chances of eradication before these impacts occur.
“The National Forest Pest Surveillance Program demonstrates how connected strategies, collaboration and co-ordinated plant pest and surveillance activities strengthen the plant biosecurity system not only for the beneft of plant industries but for economy, environment, and community,” Ms Corcoran said.
Signatories to the agreement include the Commonwealth government, the Australian Forest Products Association, Plant Health Australia, all State and Territory governments, Forest Wood Products Australia, Invasive Species Council, and NRM Regions Australia.
Local Land Services will bring lab tests to the farm gate in a bid to help growers identify and stamp out cereal diseases such as crown rot.
The Local Land Services and NSW Department of Primary Industries project encourages farmers to submit cereal stubble samples after the current harvest in a bid to fast-track disease identifcation.
Agriculture and Plant Biosecurity Business Partner Dale Kirby said the project was a timely boost for wheat growers, with many facing challenges from ongoing wet weather.
“We’re supporting landholders by making it easier for growers to check retained cereal, such as wheat, durum and barley, for potential disease,” Mr Kirby said.
“We will supply the kits to farmers to collect
cereal stubble samples after harvest to be sent free-of-charge to NSW Department of Primary Industries specialists for testing.
“This allows us to quantify the level of inoculum across the state and work together to come up with management plans that will help growers and the industry.”
NSW Department of Primary Industries Cereal Pathologist Dr
“We will have sample bags in growing regions and are encouraging landholders and agronomists to get involved to help us gather accurate information so we can build solutions that work,” Dr Simpfendorfer
said.
“Growers can wait until after harvest so there will be no disruption to farming at an inconvenient time when they are already managing so much.
“We want to see growers recover from this ongoing wet weather and prepare for the next season with a better knowledge of crown rot and key management options.”
This program is
supported by the Grains Research and Development Corporation - project code DPI2207-04RTX.
Sample kits are available at the following Local Land Services offces:
• Moree
• Narrabri
• Gunnedah
• Scone
• Dubbo
• Forbes
• Wagga Wagga
• Deniliquin
Rural and remote students wanting to attend a public selective agricultural boarding high school will now receive early offers, giving them and their families more time to make the transition.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said families in the bush would now be provided advice on possible selection as early as Term 4, Year 5.
“For families who live in rural or very remote areas, sending your child to boarding school is a big decision,” Mr Toole said.
“We have some fantastic selective public boarding schools in NSW, and this will make it so much easier for families and prospective students to apply and attend those schools.”
Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell highlighted how families of students who are seeking to attend one of the three selective agricultural boarding high schools in NSW currently do not receive their placement outcome until late in Year 6, less than six months before they start.
“We know that many parents from rural and remote areas have to make boarding school decisions well in advance of when offers are released,” Ms Mitchell said.
“This change will give families the additional time and certainty they need to plan the transition to a boarding school, while making
sure high potential and gifted students from rural and remote areas have access to our terrifc agricultural schools.”
Early offers will only be made to students deemed geographically isolated, and following an interview and review of their academic merit.
Early offers will be available to students commencing with placement offers for Year 7 in 2024.
Students will still be able to apply under current processes as well.
The three public selective agricultural boarding schools in NSW are the Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School, Yanco Agricultural High School, and Hurlstone Agricultural High School.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries’ Young Farmer Business Program (YFBP) has today launched Season 4 of their podcast ‘Propagate’- six episodes that detail the personal stories of young farmers and fshers with the aim of inspiring others in the industry.
highlights how innovative and dedicated Aussie farmers and fshers are. I would encourage anyone in the industry to have a listen,” said Mr McCormack.
Key healthcare workers in regional NSW will be given the opportunity to enter the workforce or upskill, thanks to the NSW Government’s $5 million Rural and Regional Health Career Scholarships program.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the program is a key part of the NSW Government’s commitment to attract and retain healthcare workers in rural and regional NSW.
connected to our communities.
“This program is also targeting new workers, with scholarships to cover the cost of travel and accommodation, childcare, technology and training fees- aimed at making it easier for students to choose to move away from the city.”
Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said the program will not only attract new staff to the regions but support
across a range of health professions including allied health, nursing and midwifery and Aboriginal healthcare.
“This is about growing and empowering our regional health workforce and builds on the NSW Government’s $883 million regional health workforce incentive scheme, announced as part of the 2022-23 NSW Budget.”
The Rural and Regional Health Scholarships form part of Our
• The NSW Government is investing $4.5 billion over the next four years to deliver 10,148 full-time equivalent staff to hospitals and health services across NSW – the biggest ever boost to the health workforce in the nation’s history.
• About 3,800 of those positions will go to rural and regional areas.
Young Farmer Business Program Senior Project Offcer, Shannon McCormack, said the podcast provides young farmers and fshers with informative and encouraging stories and insights into the lives and businesses of innovators in the industry.
“The podcast is a valuable resource for our community as it showcases how young farmers and fshers across NSW are adding value to their products, branching into alternative markets, or tapping directly into the supply chain,” he said. Season 4 of Propagate features farmers who own and operate valueadded businesses and are a generation of growers focused on sustainability, regenerative land management and closing the gap between producers and consumers.
Recorded on farms and businesses right across the state, the podcast talks with farmers from the dairy, beef, vegetable, grains, pork, and poultry sectors, who are succeeding in their industries and rising to the challenges of balancing business, family, and technology.
“I want to thank the courageous young farmers who shared the incredible stories of their business and farming journeys. Their stories give hope and confdence to others looking at similar options,” he said.
“Our Government recognises that working in healthcare in the regions is completely different to working in the city,” Mr Toole said.
“That’s why this program has been specifcally designed for rural and regional health workers. We want our health workforce to feel supported and provide them with the opportunity to upskill or retrain while staying
existing healthcare workers.
“From Bourke to Bega, I’ve heard loud and clear that our health workers want to be provided with the opportunities to advance their careers without having to leave their families, their workplace and their communities,” Mrs Taylor said.
“These scholarships are fexible to individuals needs and are available
Vision for Regional Communities and Action Plan 2023-2025, a NSW Government initiative outlining immediate priorities and long-term strategies to make regional NSW an even better place to call home. To fnd out more about Our Vision for Regional Communities and Action Plan 2023-2025, visit www.nsw.gov.au/ ourvision.
Key facts:
• The NSW Government is investing a further $883 million will over the next four years to attract and retain staff in rural and regional NSW by transforming the way health clinicians are incentivised to work in the bush, and building the future workforce pipeline.
The diverse range of entrepreneurs and business owners hail from Casino, Bundarra, Eccleston, Southern Highlands, Rutherglen and John’s River. They share their experiences of embracing social media to create farm brands and a marketing platform, opportunities and challenges of starting a value-add business, and how they plan for the future.
“The podcast
The project is coordinated by DPI’s Young Farmer Business Program (YFBP) and highlights a small selection of hard-working and enterprising farmers from across NSW.
This season, and all previous seasons of Propagate, are available to download for free via Google Podcasts, the Apple Podcasts and YouTube.
For more information visit www.youngfarmer. nsw.gov.au
Road safety needs to be improved across regional NSW.
The Joint Standing Committee on Road Safety (Staysafe) tabled its report on speed limits and road safety in regional NSW today.
The Hon. Lou Amato MLC, Committee Chair, acknowledged that more needs to be done to make regional roads safer.
“Most road fatalities happen in country areas. Regional communities need roads that are designed and maintained to a high standard to allow them to safely go about their business”, said Mr Amato.
The Committee found that that the 100 kilometre per hour default speed limit may not be appropriate for all regional roads in NSW. It recommends that
local council requests to review speed limits are responded to more quickly and the reason for changing a speed limit is published.
The Chair stated: “Speed limits are an important way of keeping our roads safe and should be suitable for the road conditions, and the process for reviewing them should be timely, with any changes clearly explained to the community.”
The Committee also recommends construction of more overtaking lanes and allowing a speed limit tolerance when vehicles are safely overtaking.
“More overtaking lanes gives drivers more chances to safely overtake and prevent them from taking
unnecessary risks.”, noted Mr Amato.
The report’s 15 recommendations also focus on the need to educate drivers to drive to the conditions, and improved management of speed limits in road work zones. The feasibility of increasing speed limits above 110 kilometres per hour in some situations was also considered.
Suicide by truck was raised, with a recommendation that more work be done to better understand this issue.
On this point, the Chair stated: “While some research has been done, it is important that we get a better understanding of this issue, given the tragic affect it can have on all those involved.”
The Committee also looked at advances in vehicle technology and found there is a slower uptake in regional areas and that road infrastructure is not keeping up with these advances.
“We hope the Committee’s recommendations help improve road travel, which is a key part of daily life for regional communities.”, the Chair concluded.
The report is available on the Committee’s webpage, scan the QR
Irrigators will save water, time and money at the same time as protecting native fsh populations now and well into the future, thanks to the NSW Government’s $20 million Fish-Friendly Water Extraction project.
Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW Dugald Saunders said as part of the program, state-of-the-art fsh protection screens would be installed on 49 water pumps across the State, not just contributing to the health of the river systems and the longevity of fsh populations, but also increasing farmers’ productivity.
irrigation screens will deliver 2,900 megalitres per day of cleaner water by eliminating debris from the irrigation systems,” Mr Anderson said.
“Farmers and properties with fsh screens have already reported a range of benefts, including a reduced need to backfush, reduced costs of in-line fltration and energy savings of up to $3,000 per month.
The National Rural Health Alliance (the Alliance) welcomes the initiatives for rural, regional and remote health outlined in the Federal Budget 2022–23.
However, it is disappointing that the Budget fails to deliver the signifcant investment and innovation required to meaningfully address the health access challenges facing rural communities.
The Alliance CEO Susi Tegen observed that the Budget does acknowledge the need for initiatives to support and encourage a rural health workforce, including increasing funding to both the doctor and practice streams of the Workforce Incentive Program, support for additional rural generalists and junior doctors, and expansion of the Single Employer Model trials.
“However, it lacks a bold and broad approach to innovation in primary healthcare delivery in rural areas,” said Ms Tegen.
“What is missing is a clear vision for reform of primary health care in rural Australia,” she said.
Ms Tegen acknowledged that the Budget contains some welcome interventions to support and encourage a rural health workforce.
“The package to strengthen First Nations health is commendable, with additional funding to combat rheumatic heart disease, a Birthing on Country Centre of Excellence, improved access to dialysis treatment – including in rural and remote areas – as well as investment in First Nations health workers.
“However, we need to understand that the challenges of delivering health services in thin rural markets, and attracting and retaining a rural health workforce, are constantly increasing. This Budget will not address these challenges.
“Rural communities
are not just small cities,” Ms Tegen said. “They need a model of care that addresses the rural-specifc barriers to attracting and retaining a health workforce, while meeting the needs of individual rural communities.”
The Alliance has been calling for a commitment from the Government on the rollout of a new model of primary health care to meet the specifc needs of rural communities – rural area community-controlled health organisations*.
“This model should be community-developed and community-led, support access to multidisciplinary teams and ensure attractive conditions through a single employer,” Ms Tegen said.
“Funding of $24.7 million over four years to trial new primary care models is a step in the right direction.
“However, it falls well short of the signifcant fnancial commitment and innovation required to support real and immediate
action to improve access to primary health care for rural communities,” said Ms Tegen.
“Rural, regional and remote Australia is not only home to more than seven million Australians, but is also a major contributor to the nation’s economy, with around two-thirds of Australia’s export earnings coming from rural, regional and remote activity such as primary industry, mining, tourism, retail services and manufacturing.
“As such, it is not acceptable that rural Australians are missing out on equitable access to essential health care.
“The Alliance anticipates more and broader solutions in the next Budget, when there is opportunity for signifcant reform for better healthcare outcomes for Australians living in rural, regional and remote areas,” concluded Ms Tegen.
“These modern fsh screens are ftted with fne mesh and selfcleaning technology that effectively flters unwanted debris and fsh out of pumps and pipes, delivering cleaner water onto properties and reducing the need for farmers to spend time unblocking sprinklers,” Mr Saunders said.
“Research has shown us that these modern fsh screens also protect up to 90 per cent of native fsh passing through, which is critical as we continue to restock them in waterways after millions were killed during the drought.
“This project is a great example of how the NSW Government is supporting the agriculture industry to adopt modern, on-farm technology, translating innovative research into practical measures.”
Minister for Water Kevin Anderson said the fsh screens would not only protect millions of native fsh and the environment, but also deliver cleaner water to farms.
“The state-of-the-art
“This project will also boost employment in the region, with local businesses to be engaged to assist with the screen installations. It’s about looking after the environment, farmers and businesses at the same time.”
NSW DPI Fisheries will manage the fsh screen installation process in partnership with Water Infrastructure NSW, with construction to begin next year.
The fsh screening program is part of a suite of complementary measures being used to bolster native fsh stocks in the northern Murray-Darling Basin, which also includes the measures to improve fsh passage up and down the river.
For more information about the fsh screening project, visit the Fish Screens Australia website www.
fshscreens.org.au
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) welcomed the Andrews Government’s Cabinet announcement today, congratulating The Hon. Danny Pearson MP as Minister responsible for real estate matters under his Consumer Affairs portfolio and Assistant Treasurer.
With a range of critical market forces and industry issues currently surrounding and infuencing the sector, REIV CEO Quentin Kilian said now is the time for Government to put genuine focus on good property sector policy.
“While we have been calling for the property sector to have a dedicated ministerial portfolio, we look forward to working with Minister Pearson on a list of important issues, none more important than an update to the state’s tired tax regime,” Mr Kilian said.
“Despite the sector’s rapid recent evolution and a signifcant shift in market conditions, Victorian property participants are still dealing with archaic stamp duty that does nothing but inhibit aspiring homeowners, deter downsizers, and
cripple investors, all which compounds our current housing supply crisis.
“In Victoria, stamp duty equates to approximately 22 per cent of state and local government revenue so the question of removing stamp duty really centres around what to replace it with, and how to make the transition - this is where politics has the potential to interfere with good outcomes.
“Other states are seeing the light on this antiquated tax and REIV invites the Victorian Government into a discussion with industry
leaders and experts as we seek a better approach.”
The REIV’s seven key arguments to remove stamp duty are:
1. reduced purchase costs;
2. enhanced mobility of skilled people via the reduction of transfer costs that in turn aids better economic outcomes;
3. likelihood of older people moving to more appropriate accommodation and thereby releasing suitable housing stock for younger families;
4. increase in taxation transparency;
5. improved housing
affordability through decreased purchase costs and greater housing liquidity (supply of existing house stock);
6. with appropriate measures and intent by governments, increased availability of funds to meet social and affordable housing needs; and
7. greater stability in tax revenue modelling for governments. They are explained in the REIV’s discussion paper: State-based Property Taxes; an ineffcient system stymieing housing availability
Mr Kilian added the
2021 changes to the Residential Tenancies Act and the early-2022 (but not yet released)
Property Market Review also need to be immediate priorities for Government.
“On behalf of 8000 plus REIV members who employ more than 15,000 Victorians, we look forward to engaging with the returned State Government and work towards renewing policy impacting one of Victoria’s most important sectors,” he said.
The sea- and tree-change property market is slowing down across Australia, despite prices climbing faster in country areas over the past year than in the capital cities.
However, the affordability of regional hubs, including Newcastle in New South Wales and Ballarat in Victoria, has held up compared to metro markets, during a real estate boom whipped up by low listings and high demand for a provincial change of pace.
The verdant Hunter Valley was the top performing regional area in Australia, according to the research by CoreLogic.
Price growth in twentyfve of the largest noncapital regions dropped from 6.6 per cent in April last year, to 4.7 per cent in the three to April this year, new research by CoreLogic shows. Prices are rising, but not at the
rate they once were.
Property price growth in country and coastal Australia has longer-term heat behind it - values across the combined regions jumped 23.9 per cent in the 12 months to April this year.
The fgure raced in front of the combined capital city growth rate of 14.6 per cent for the same term, CoreLogic’s Regional Market Update found.
“Although demographic data is signifcantly lagged, anecdotally we are still seeing strong demand for regional housing supported by high internal migration rates,” CoreLogic research director Tim Lawless said in a statement.
“It seems many employers across the relevant industries have implemented permanent hybrid working arrangements for staff which is likely to be supporting the stronger
demand trend across regional Australia.”
The Hunter Valley’s median was the nation’s top performer, growing 34.3 per cent, although the median across the region is still under $1 million, according to CoreLogic. The Hunter, excluding Newcastle, outpaced growth in the Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven, which experienced a deceleration.
A home in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie is $250,000 cheaper than greater metro Sydney properties, and the Illawarra region (where Wollongong is an economic centre) is $143,000 cheaper than Sydney.
In Victoria, Ballarat’s median is $203,000 less than Melbourne’s median house price, and Geelong, the state’s second largest city, is a smidge cheaper than the big smoke ($5,350 less).
Australians facing poverty are more likely to be restricted with services like Centrelink because of the technology divide, a senate inquiry has heard.
Poverty and social services advocates shared their experiences with the federal government’s community affairs references committee in Brisbane on Tuesday.
Basic Rights Queensland practice director Sam Tracy said technology-based government resources could be one of the biggest barriers for many people trying to access services.
Mr Tracy said many people seeking benefts or assistance from government agencies like Centrelink did not have the digital literacy to access the right services.
“These systems are diffcult at the best of times for educated people who understand using technology,” he said.
“There has to be options for people — the door to the government isn’t there for a lot of people in regional areas but also for people in the cities is diffcult with digital literacy.”
The committee heard evidence that Centrelink services had been streamlined during the pandemic and users had found it easier to access needed benefts.
Anti-Poverty Network Queensland national liaison Jayden Oxton-White said the current system was “intentionally diffcult” for users.
He said those streamlined services had since reverted back to pre-pandemic now that lockdowns had ended and people were again dealing with the “digital divide”.
“It showed how cruel the system can be for people who are dependent on it,” he said.
YFS chief executiveCatherine Bartolo said during this period when benefts were increased to assist with those accessing Centrelink, many people had enough money to buy food and purchase everyday items “for the frst time”.
Ms Bartolo said those accessing YFS services declined by 60 per cent during the height of Covid lockdowns because of the government’s income support increased.
She said this allowed YFS to focus its attention on other areas, including improving digital literacy among its clients.
“The coronavirus brought out the digital divide, we were able to supply people with computers and that actually set them up to learn more about computers,” Ms Bartolo said.
“There’s a barrier for people who are poor and (can’t pay) for internet expenses.”
Nicholas Whitman, who also works at Anti-Poverty Network Queensland, told the committee on Tuesday the reality of people living pay check to pay check or without money at all could be struggling.
He said while many CBDs provided free Wi-Fi, those needing to access online services come up against many challenges day to day that many people might not consider.
“Over in Southbank (in Brisbane) in the state library the Wi-Fi is so location based, a lot of people are set up in the houseless community but they’re often moved on,” Mr Whitman said.
“If the police see them loitering along Southbank they’ll be moved on, so to have access to the state funded resources they face barriers sometimes.
“One of our members is putting together a list of where there’s free Wi-Fi
and you can hang out at.
“We’d love someone to run technology classes but that’s just not in our capabilities.”
Friends with Dignity chief executive Manuela Whitford said the government needed to look at streamlining services to ensure providers weren’t overlapping offerings to clients.
She said this would ensure clients would be able to get the required assistance they needed in a timely manner.
“We work in silos, we need to work and collaborate more to see what everyone is doing and doing it properly,” she said.
“If we’re not sharing that load, we’re not doing it well.”
Queensland Council of Social Service policy and research manager
Gayatri Ramnath told the committee having another doorway for users to access services that wasn’t digitally focused would empower many people to access those services.
Dr Ramnath said literacy issues, impacts of racism, trauma and mental health were all barriers but those could be managed if the right mechanisms were in place.
“It makes your job incredibly easy when you have a person participating in the system,” Dr Ramnath said.
“Even when someone’s feeling empowered, the number of times they have to have go to get (assistance) they start to think ‘what’s the point of doing this because I’m still going to be short of money by the end of the week’.
“We know people with low incomes are really good at household budgets but we just fnd they don’t have enough money.”
The committee will report its fnding to the senate on October 31 2023
Renault has freshened up its Koleos mid-sized SUV with signifcant upgrades to the Life and Zen model lines, and the addition of a new Zen 4x4 variant.
Koleos is an important vehicle for the French carmaker, accounting for nearly a third of Renault’s passenger and
the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment, while the addition of new standard safety and comfort features double down on the premium value-for-money proposition that has been a Koleos mainstay.
All Koleos variants now come with blind spot monitoring, front and side parking sensors, auto-folding mirrors, rear privacy
BOSE sound system, and Sand Grey Nappa leather removed from the option list. All three trim levels now no longer sport front fog lights or the wide-view driver’s side mirror.
As with all Renault vehicles Koleos has a fve-year Easy Life Ownership program that includes a fve-year, unlimited kilometre
New Peugeot 308’s grille features a new lion’s head emblem.
light commercial range.
The Koleos powertrain is unchanged with all variants powered by a fourcylinder 2.5-litre petrol engine, producing 126kW at 6000rpm and 226Nm at 4400rpm, mated to an X-tronic CVT automatic transmission.
Fuel consumption is listed at 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres from two-wheel models and 8.1 L/100km from the 4x4s.
Now, with the arrival of the new 4x4 Zen variant, Koleos has a broader offering in
glass, a new 18-inch alloy wheel design and chrome highlights on the lower side body and rear bumper
The Zen variant now gets the 4WD option as well as black leather upholstery, one-touch easy fold rear seats, 8.7-inch portrait touchscreen, customisable ambient lighting, easy park assist, hands-free powered tailgate, LED reversing lights, and a sweeping rear turn signal
The top grade Intens model sees 3D Sound by Arkamys replace the
warranty, fve-year roadside assistance, and fve-year capped price servicing.
Koleos Life 4x2: $37,000
Koleos Zen 4x2: $41,700
Koleos Zen 4x4: $44,200
Koleos Intens 4x2: $45,200
Koleos Intens 4x4: $47,700
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Renault dealer for drive-away prices.
By ALISTAIR KENNEDYPeugeot has released an updated version of its 308 small-medium hatch and wagon. First sold here in 2008 the 308 has never seriously challenged comparable models from Korea and Japan for sales, but those loyal to the French brand have always loved it for its style, comfort and handling.
cylinder, turbocharged unit it delivering 96 kilowatts of power and 230 Newton metres of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed Effcient Automatic Transmission (EAT8).
The all-new GT Sport Hatch Plug-In Hybrid will combine a 1.6-litre 132 kW 1.6-litre, fourcylinder petrol engine with an 81-kW electric motor for 165 kW of power and 360 Nm of torque together with an
housing Peugeot’ latest i-Connect infotainment system.
Standard safety and driver-assistance features in the new Peugeot 308 include: Active Safety Brake with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver attention warning, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop Function, Full Matrix LED headlights, Rear Cross Traffc Alert and 360-degree
The MY22 308 will initially come with the choice of three variants: GT Hatch, GT Premium Hatch, and GT Premium Wagon. A GT Sport Plug-In Hybrid Hatch will join the range in the frst half of 2023.
The 308 will be the frst Peugeot model to feature the brand’s new coat of arms, centrally mounted on bold, graphic grille.
As before power for the petrol variants will come from Peugeot’s PureTech 130 engine. A 1.2-litre, three-
upgraded version of the EAT8 transmission.
The MY23 308 is also roomier thanks to increases to the wheelbase, overall length, height, and width, ensuring even more space for rear seat passengers and luggage.
It also gets the next-generation of the i-Cockpit system with a new compact, multi-function steering wheel, 10-inch 3D digital instrument panel display and 10inch, high-defnition colour touchscreen
surround view parking camera.
We’ll be testing each of the three Peugeot petrol models early next year and will report then.
308 GT Hatch: $43,990
308 GT Premium Hatch: $48,990
308 GT Premium Wagon: $50,490
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Peugeot dealer for drive-away prices.
LDV’s new Mifa people mover is coming, but it’s not the electric one - at least not yet.
Arriving this month Mifa comes in three grades - Mode, Executive and Luxepowered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine which delivers 160kW of power and 360Nm of torque, through an 8-speed Japanese Aisin automatic gearbox.
There’s no hybrid and no battery electric version, and no mention of them either.
Overseas it’s offered with the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine or a 2.0-litre turbodiesel.
LDV describes Mifa as a people mover for the next generation. It’s set to shake up its segment thanks to its sleek
exterior styling, latest safety and technology features, and room for every passenger to travel in comfort and style no matter how far the journey.
“The all-new LDV Mifa is a glimpse into the future,” LDV’s Dinesh Chinappa said.
“Every new Mifa model will come with a signifcant level of standard safety equipment, convenient features, fuel-effcient powertrain and more for hard-working Australian families.”
“While it might not share the heart of its
electric sibling, the MIFA 9, it does share the fundamentals of evolutionary design, passenger comfort, safety and more.
“It has advanced the people mover game signifcantly and we’re looking forward to redefning the segment
that has, until now, been dominated by two brands.”
Mifa features a bold face framed by daytime running lights, wide stance and distinctive LED rear light signature.
Inside, comfort is a priority. Depending on variant, there is a
choice of seven or eight luxurious seats.
They include six-way electrically adjustable captain’s chairs in the frst and second row which can be confgured for ease of access, while footrests and foldout tray tables allow passengers to travel business class every day.
The safety story is a strong one with features including front and rear autonomous emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control, rear collision warning, lane departure warning and speed assist system.
Full details of the all-new MIFA including specifcation, pricing and more will be revealed mid-November. Also arriving this month is a fully electric version of the T60 ute and the eDeliver 9 large van.
Back in the ‘60s Gerry Anderson created the puppet phenomena Thunderbirds.
The puppets or marionettes later grew into real life actors in shows like UFO and Space: 1999, complete with space-age clothing, architecture and futuristic cars that made a buzzing, turbine-like sound.
I suspect many car designers have spent too much time watching sci-f shows because most seem to think EVs should come in a futuristic package, with form taking precedence over functionality.
Kia’s frst dedicated, fully electric vehicle, EV6, is an example. It looks and feels more like a statement of what is possible rather than a real car, one ready to take on the demands of the weekly grind or occasional trip to the tip on Saturday with a back full of crap.
EV6 may be Wheels’ Car of the Year and there are certainly many things to like about the car, but it’s not the most practical thing we’ve driven -- not by a long shot.
It’s a long, wide car at almost 4.7 metres and 1.9 metres across, with an oh-so-long 2900mm wheelbase.
But the proportions are not what we have come to recognise as ideal, with a short bonnet and hindquarters that bracket a long cabin.
After all, there’s no gas-guzzling ICE to accommodate up front. The batteries take up a bit of space though, sandwiched and spread out under the foor. To placate traditionalists, a grille of sorts remains at the front.
Unlock EV6 and fushftting, body-coloured door handles pop out in welcome.
Black A-pillar, wing mirrors and beltline garnishes complete the look, with full-width tail lights and a stylish rear wing.
Prices start from $72,590 for the EV6 Air RWD.
EV6 GT-Line RWD is priced from $79,590, while top of the range EV6 GT-Line AWD is priced from $87,590.
A high-performance version, the 430kW EV6 GT, is expected in January around the time of the Australian Open which Kia sponsors. Its price is
yet to be revealed.
Our test vehicle, the GT-Line AWD, came with the options of premium paint ($520) and a second cable that allows the car to be hooked up to a payas-you-go charger ($583), taking the price to $88,693 before on-road costs.
Standard kit includes 20-inch alloys with Continental 255/45 tyres, dual zone climate air with rear vents, and poweradjust, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel and mood lighting with 64 colours.
Trim is a combination of black and white, a mix of artifcial suede and vegan leather upholstery with white stitching, with power adjustment for driver lumbar support.
There’s also LED lights, folding, heated door mirrors with integrated indicators, automatic high beam, smart cruise control with stop and go, auto parallel and perpendicular parking, tilt and slide sunroof and a smart power tailgate.
Rounding out the list is head-up display, an autodimming rear-view mirror, auto lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors, along with a 360-degree camera.
Like all Kias, it’s covered by a 7-year unlimited kilometre warranty. Unlike others, pre-paid service plans are available.
Infotainment consists of a 12.3-inch touchscreen, with built-in navigation, with AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, Bluetooth, together with wired Android Auto and wired Apple CarPlay plus ‘Sounds of Nature’ ambient background noise.
In the GT-Line the
standard six-speaker sound system makes way for Meridian premium audio with 14 speakers.
Connect with three USB Chargers (1 x Type A and 2 x Type C) in the front tray with multimedia connectivity, two USB Charger (Type C) in front seat backs, plus two 12-volt power outlets ( 1 x boot side/1 x front tray). Wireless Qi phone charging is also standard.
Air is the more range focused of the trio, with 168kW of power and 350Nm of torque and a range of 528km, while RWD GT-Line with the same powertrain is good for 504km.
GT-Line with AWD adds a second electric motor and produces a combined output of 239kW and 605Nm, along with a range of 484km.
All are powered by the same 77.4kWh battery pack, which is located under the foor and weighs 477kg, with a single speed reduction gear transmission.
Moving through the grades, energy consumption ranges from 16.5 to 17.2 to 18.0 kWh/100km.
Five-star safety starts with seven airbags, a rear-view camera with dynamic guidelines, plus Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with car, pedestrian, cyclist detection (and junction turn assist).
There’s also Blind Spot (including rear cross traffc assist), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), Lane Follow Assist (LFA), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Driver Attention Warning with
lead vehicle departure alert (DAW+), MultiCollision Braking (MCB) and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
EV6 provides three top tether and two ISOFIX child seat anchors.
There are four selectable drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow which also change the look of the instruments.
Adding some drama to the drive experience is Active Sound Design (ASD) with a choice of artifcial engine sounds and custom setting.
They’re unique electronica rather than engine noise emulations.
With this much power and torque under foot and all that torque available in a fash, EV6 has plenty of get up and go, with 0-100km/h in the AWD taking a rapid 5.2 seconds.
With a burst of speed, overtaking can be accomplished virtually at will, but it’s a weighty device and wants to run wide in corners. Steering is heavy and uncommunicative.
EV6 has powerful braking too, perhaps too strong at times, or more specifcally -- irritatingly abrupt. It pulls up with a jerk and releases with a lurch, and can be diffcult to control in close manoeuvring.
One way to avoid this happening is onepedal driving, using the regenerative brake system that is controlled by the steering wheel paddles normally devoted to gears.
In this way, the car slows when you lift off the accelerator -- to a complete stop if necessary. An electric parking brake is provided, but instead of being located
close to hand in the centre console, it’s relegated to a position to the right and below the dash.
More jerkiness follows. Try releasing the brake and moving off in reverse if you’re parked on a slope. A dab on the accelerator pedal is required and is liable to result in an intake of breath as the car shoots backwards.
EV6’s space-age look is polarising. Some people love it, others hate it.
Facing the wrong direction, the pop-out handles are awkward to use and for a 4.7 metre vehicle getting in and out is not as easy as it should be.
The door openings are large, but a low roofine and relatively high seating position compromise access, together with the sunroof that further reduces headroom. Watch your head and hold on to your sunglasses.
Ditto for rear seat passengers, with an elevated seating position and low hanging roof, and surprisingly little legroom considering the length of the car.
Getting into the car for the frst time I was confronted with a washedout instrument panel with pale blue lettering on a white background that was diffcult to see in sunlight.
I was later able to change this to black after fnding the appropriate setting in the infotainment system, but for the frst few minutes I was fying blind.
Moving from one Kia to another, the steering wheel switch gear is familiar, but they had been transposed from one side of the wheel to the other.
The dash layout is similar to that of the Niro EV that we drove, but as
with Niro I found that I had lost a physical volume control.
The luggage area is quite large with a hidden area underneath for cable storage, along with a smaller boot at the front of the car, but alas no spare tyre.
A tyre repair kit is provided instead. Oh, and in case you’re wondering, it can tow a 1600kg load.
Most annoying was the location of the charge port. In Niro it is sensibly located at the front, but in EV6 it is cleverly concealed near the driver side tail light. The location necessitates backing the car in to access power.
Charging can take a looong time with a standard powerpoint, down to as little as 18 minutes for 80 per cent with a 350kW DC commercial charger.
Even fully charged the system reported a distance to empty range of 412km -- some 70km less than claimed.
Stranger still, after travelling a few kilometres to do some shopping, the range actually went up a few kilometres rather than down, even though the battery dropped to 97 per cent.
At the end of the day, we were getting 17.0kWh/100km after about 400km of mixed driving.
After all the EV6 hype, it’s a mixed bag and something of a let-down.
Until now Kia’s ergonomics have been a shining example of simplicity. Who let the nerds out?
It’s a halo model for the brand, pure and simple.
Cashed up nerds will want one. Lesser so, userchoosers, who will be drawn to the usual line-up of Euro suspects.
Who then does that leave? It’s a fairly short, exclusive list at $90K by the time you put it on the road.
Just over 500 EV6s have found homes in Australia this year. Over the same period, Kia has sold four times as many Stingers (and they reckon its days are numbered).
No doubt, the arrival of the EV6 GT will give the fgures a bit of a bump -but after that, who knows?
CHAOS WALKING (M) 120m
Thu: 12:40pm, 3:10pm, 5:20pm Fri, Sun: 12:10pm, 2:45pm, 7:35pm Sat: 12:50pm, 3:45pm, 8:20pm Tue, Wed: 1:00pm
CRISIS (MA15+) 130m
Thu: 10:40am, 2:50pm, 7:25pm Fri, Sun: 10:10am, 2:20pm, 7:20pm Sat: 10:45am, 1:15pm, 6:00pm Tue, Wed: 10:40am
NOMADLAND (M) 120m
Thu: 10:30am, 1:00pm, 7:35pm Fri, Sun: 10:00am, 12:30pm, 7:10pm Sat: 10:30am, 1:30pm, 6:15pm Tue, Wed: 10:30am, 1:00pm
RAYA & THE LAST DRAGON (PG) 125m
Thu: 10:30am, 3:15pm, 5:35pm Fri, Sun: 10:15am, 3:15pm, 5:00pm Sat: 11:00am, 3:10pm, 5:40pm Tue, Wed: 10:45am
THE LITTLE THINGS (M) 138m
Thu: 12:45pm, 5:10pm; Fri, Sun: 12:40pm, 4:40pm Sat: 3:40pm, 8:00pm; Tue, Wed: 12:40pm
WRONG TURN (MA15+) 112m Thu: 7:50pm; Fri, Sun: 5:30pm; Sat: 8:30pm RATINGS:
Nana used to say, “A watched kettle never boils”, which was a red rag to a seven-year-old bull who couldn’t resist testing the theory, got bored after a couple of minutes and went off to play with something more interesting, surmising that yes indeed, the statement is proved to be true and Nana knows everything.
Years down the track when watching a boiling a kettle became more interesting than television and you understood science better but still harboured lingering doubts that Nana could be wrong, and felt compelled to test the theory again, it quickly
became apparent that Nana was pulling the other one.
However, there are a number of modern-day equivalents of this old proverb that are scientifcally and empirically verifable and they all relate to computers and other devices, the most obvious of which is “A watched download never boils”, which everyone knows is true, but your blood sure does if you watch it long enough, and unlike the kettle, it truly will never arrive while you are watching.
The obvious corollary is that “A watched upload will never fnish” either and the length of time it takes to do so is directly proportional to the perceived importance
of the download/upload to the progress of the watcher’s day/workfow/happiness/ whatever.
There are minor variations to the theme of course such as “A watched automatic update will never complete”, or if it does will require a reboot that causes you to lose all your work from the ten minutes prior to the update and change all your preferences and/or function of the program that you are working in so you no longer understand how to use it and need to call a teenager who will look at you smugly and mumble something along the lines of “OK, Boomer” . There is a more serious application of this realm
of proverbs, “A watched YouTube clip will always buffer”, which like the upload issue, is directly proportional to the anticipated level of humour and the number of people waiting to watch it. Lastly, one of the most frustrating permutations of Nana’s new maxim is “A watched bargain can never be purchased before the payment details page times out”, which is why you should always attend the bottle shop in person, or get a teenager to order your wine for you and tell them it’s okay this time to click the “Yes, I am over 18” button which they have been doing for years anyway to access porn and buy stuff using your credit card.
SA Flavabom Rosé 2022, $25. The funky, cartoon label depicting a mermaid, roses and skulls from the Mexican festival Day of the Dead, belies the fact this isn’t as cheap and playful as you might think. Unexpectedly sensible, suave, and subtle rosé, dangerously easy to drink on summer days. 9.4/10.
Shiraz 2021, $25.
While the playful label lures you in, the 15.5 percent knocks you out. Full on without feeling fat but keep it to a few glasses or you’ll fall over. 9.3/10.
Valley ‘Madeline
Alice’ Blanc de Noir 2016, $60. Someone should market a case of wines with peoples’ names. An eponymous mixed dozen. Who doesn’t know a Madeline these days? Alright, most are only five years old, so don’t put it in the pass the parcel. 9.5/10.
Riesling 2022, $24.
You don’t always expect huge things from riesling, so when you get it, it really makes you sit up, grab another canapé and a top up. Voluminous character and overflowing with flavour, bit like our recycle bins. 9.6/10.
The Great Bonza Reserve Shiraz Cabernet 2019, $19.
Is Bonza ‘Reserve’ having a laugh? Clearly more special than Bonza Regular or Bonza Lite if there was one. But guess what, it’s actually rather good and can proudly wear the Reserve moniker without ridicule or mockery. 9.3/10.
Winning streak (2,1,4)
Elusively (9)
Subtle emanation (4)
Chutzpah (10)
1 Is gluten a protein or a carbohydrate? 2 The domesticated cultivation of wheat began in 9600 BCE in which part of the world? 3 Which is the majority sect of Islam in Iraq: Sunni or Shia?
4 The 1954 lm 12 Angry Men is set inside a what? 5 What is the highest legal court of appeal in the Australian court hierarchy?
6 In which lm was the constitution of Australia referred to in terms of its ‘vibe’? 7 In which county of England is Windsor Castle (pictured)?
Who famously read out the wrong winner for Best Film at the 2017 Academy Awards?
Bonnie Elizabeth Parker was one of which infamous pair?
The Clyde River ows through which Scottish city?
City in Ohio, US (9)
Substance in the tusk of an elephant (5)
e Makejev and Butler families of the late Meagan Makejev-Butler wish to extend our sincere thanks for all the condolences and love shown during this di cult time, following the sudden loss of our dearly loved “Megs”. Your love and support is very much appreciated.
When days are grey and your heart is sad, remember me and the fun we had, I’m with you still as you carry me, in your thoughts, your heart and memory
Passed away peacefully in Brisbane on 18th September 2022 surrounded by her loving family
Aged 89 years.
Much loved wife of Neville (dec).
Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Narelle and Raghnild; Gavin (dec); Brian and Julie; Mark (dec); Janine and Shane.
Cherished grandmother of 10 and great-grandmother of 7.
At Ursula’s request a private cremation has taken place and her ashes have been interred with her beloved husband, Neville.
God saw that you were weary… He knew you’d had your share. He gently closed your tired eyes, And took you in his care. Away to the beautiful somewhere, Sheltered from sorrow and pain, You rest in God’s beautiful garden… Until we meet again.
25-11-1932 - 6-12-2022
Late of Brisbane, formerly of Lismore and Leeton. Passed away surrounded by loved ones Sunday 4 December 2022, aged 82 years.
Dearly loved Husband of Diane.
Much loved Father and Father-in-law of Neville (dec.) & Christine (dec.), Chris & Maria, Adele & Alan, Tony & Louise, Sharon and Ronald & Nancy.
Stepfather to Athol & Tammy and Amanda & Chris. Cherished Grandfather and loving Great-grandfather to all of their children.
Beloved pet owner of Best Buddy Prince.
A Graveside Funeral Service was held at Coraki Cemetery.
01. 04. 1950 ~ 11. 12. 2022
Jean passed away peacefully at home aged 90 years.
Beloved wife of Bob (Dec.)
Much loved Mother and Mother-in-law of Rob & Pam, Judy & Chris, Dave, Sue & Wayne. Adored Nan to her grandchildren, John, Alan, David, Jenny, James, Shane, Sam, Kirsty, Kaytie, Tim, Meg, Josh & Noah, and her great grandchildren.
A private service was held for Jean on Wednesday the
Died peacefully at her home in Newcastle, Formerly of Lismore. Loved Mother and Mother in-law of Michelle and Brendan Lannen, Paul Kay (Dec). Sister and sister in-law of Dawn and Ray Dare. Grandmother to Georgia, Clare, Patrick, and Daniel.
Family and friends are invited to attend the grave side service of thanksgiving for Helen’s life, to be held at the graveside, Tucki Tucki Cemetery.
Wyrallah Road, Tucki Tucki, Tuesday 20th December 2022 commencing at 11:00AM
In memorial of Graham Victor Coss Loving partner of Jenny, father of Darren and Shannon.
Grandfather of Elise, Caylee and Ashton. A brother to Kevin, Russell, Terry, Rhonda, Sharon, David, Janelle.
A celebration of life will be held at Gummifera Garden, Lismore Memorial Gardens Skyline Road, Goonellabah on WEDNESDAY 21st December 2022, commencing at 10 am.
Ph: 02 6621 8266
15. 02. 1931 ~ 08. 12. 2022
Passed away peacefully at Lismore Base Hospital.
Loved and loving husband of Brigid “Nancy” for 69 years. Much loved father and father-in-law of Lyn & Kevin, Jan & Kevin, Patrick & Rose, Barbara (dec), Daniel & Lee and Geo & Tyler.
Loving Grandfather of 10 and great Grandfather of 11.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Requiem Mass for Brian to be held at St. John’s Anglican Church, Wattle Street Evans Head on FRIDAY 16th December, 2022 commencing at 2.00 pm.
A er the service the cortege will leave for the Evans Head Lawn Cemetery.
•
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.
NOTE:
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. 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 (closed 24th. December 2022 - 5th January 2023) 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.
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.
For more information - info@bacci. com.au or phone Deb on 0432105540
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.
As our following meeting date falls on Australia Day, the frst formal meeting will be on 23 February 2023. The Club will have some activities during this break.
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.
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
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
CHRISTMAS DINNER
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.
We have two Christmas stalls this month, on Friday 16th December we will be in River Street outside the Greater Building Society from 7am, there will be a large range of handicraft items along with Christmas themed fresh cooking plus many different chutneys, sauces and jams, tickets in our huge hamper will also be available, this will be drawn on Sunday 18th December at our stall at Ballina Farmers Market at Missingham by the Sea, 7 until 11, here we will have lots of jars of pickles, chutneys, sauces and jams plus Christmas cakes, scones, biscuits and many more delectable goodies to choose from.
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 7pmGuests 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.
We will be wrapping your Christmas Gifts at Ballina Fair for gold coin donation on: Monday 12th December through to Sunday 18th December from 9 till 4
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 Tuesdays 1pm - 3pm,
and Saturdays 10am - 1pm. Ph. 0411 719 074 for enquiries
We will convene again on the frst Friday in February 2023. Any enquiries to John Ritchie, President/Secretary, Fart North Coast Branch, 0437509618.”
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
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
The Probus Club of Ballina Waters will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday 21 December at the Cherry Street Sports Club commencing at 10.00 a.m.
There will be no guest speaker at this meeting as it will be followed by a Christmas lunch.
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.
CASINO COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED
Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am1.30pm. Contact 66626423 DH or casmenshed@live.com. au
The Casino CWA would like to say a big thank you all the lovely people who supported our Christmas Street Stall Saturday 28th last month; it was a huge success!! Our last meeting for the year was last Thursday 8th before our Christmas Party at the Lazy Lab. Also, a big thank you for your support of our Christmas Raffe. Next Saturday 17th outside Coles will be the chance to get a ticket or two if you haven’t already bought one. The draw will be Saturday afternoon. Everyone is welcome. Enquires Margaret Good 66621746, Jennifer Baker 043892060.
CASINO & DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY GROUP INC
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
If you would be interested in volunteering your time to help with meals on wheels give the offce a call on 66621217.
MONDAY D. Armitage & J. Corocher
TUESDAY M. Benn D. Coleman
WEDNESDAY D. Winkler
THURSDAY J.Yates
FRIDAY W & P. Edwards 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 a special CHRISTMAS social upstairs at the Casino RSM Club on Sunday the 18th November from 10.00am - 4.30 pm. Come along and enjoy some great country music and take advantage of the meals & drinks offered by the RSM Club.
New Artists always welcome. Free entry, raffes and lucky door prizes
More Info contact Carole 0438641500
CASINO UNITING CHURCH CHRISTMAS SERVICES
Corner of Canterbury & Diary Street Casino
Christmas Eve: 24th December @ 6pm - Lessons & Carols
Christmas Day: 25th December @ 9am - Service
CASINO VIEW CLUB
Monthly luncheon meeting at Casino RSM Club at 11am, second Thurs of every month. Contact Jan on 0418715374.
AA-LIVING SOBER MEETING is held every Tuesday 12:00-1:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church Cnr.
West & Canterbury Streets Casino Each week the group will discuss a chapter on living sober out of the AA Living Sober Book. Contact George on Ph: 0427133372 (due to so many scam calls) please leave your name and number and I will call you back.
ST MARK’S SINGERS
Come sing CAROLS and CHRISTMAS SONGS led by St Mark’s Singers at St Mark’s Anglican Church, Casino. 1.30pm on Sunday 18th December. All Welcome.
LINE DANCING CLASSES
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
Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. For more information phone Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.
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.
QCWA COOLANGATTA Is calling on our local community to help them by donating items for Christmas Care packs to be delivered to families who are victims of domestic violence.
‘These families will be in local safe houses and refuges over Christmas after feeing their homes and taking very few possessions with them’.
Branch President Karen Howell, said. ‘They will not have any contact with their own families or friends at Christmas. We just want to help spread the joy of Christmas and let them know that their community cares about them’.
They would greatly appreciate any donations of canned foods - vegetables, fruit, spaghetti and fsh, packets such as pasta
and sauces, long life milk and juices, breakfast cereals, savoury biscuits, and small Christmas puddings and treats. The Christmas packs for the children will contain colouring-in books, pencils, card games etc. If you would like to donate a present for a child, please wrap it and mark it with boy/ girl and age, or a present for ‘mum’. QCWA Coolangatta would appreciate any donation you can make for these wonderful packs. Items can be dropped into the QCWA hall at 169 Griffth Street, Coolangatta on any Tuesday between 9.30 am and 12 md (Qld) up until 20th December, or phone Annette on 0414 626 923 to arrange a time.
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.
BACK TO THE GOOD OLD DAYS OF THE EVANS HEAD CONCERT
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: 9am12noon; Junior coaching after school Wednesday 3.30pm-4.45pm, $6 a session. Everybody is welcome – all levels. Phone centre on
66251602. Mon-Thurs 9.00am-1.00pm 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.
GRAFTON CWA
Our last meeting for the year was held on Friday, 9th December. This was followed by Christmas lunch in the CWA Rooms, which were decorated and looked very festive. Thank you to Narelle and our catering committee for the delicious food. Thank you also to Lyn, for her Christmas quiz questions. Donations were made to the food appeal, instead of giving Secret Santa gifts.
Our next meeting is on Friday, 10th February. Morning tea is at 9.30, followed by the meeting at 10am. We look forward to seeing new members, anyone who is interested is welcome to attend. Our craft mornings will also resume in February, on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month, at 9.30am.
Anne McLellan Publicity OffcerPerhaps 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
“About 60 Seniors members recently held annual Christmas luncheon, racecourse function room. Day included 50’s & 60’s musical entertainment by Cruisin’ Broadway, & a delicious 2 course lunch was served. Also included presentation of senior of year
award to Betty & Charlie Doggett, & special awards to Alwyn Campbell & Gloria Watters. Winners of 6 grocery hampers: H. Cashel; S. Johnson (racecourse staff), F. Wratten; G Hunter-Blanch; J. Hawken; M. Sales. Sincere thanks: all for support & attendance, donors of groceries for hamper prizes, committee for work arranging function, racecourse staffer assistance, kitchen staff for rneal, entertainers for music. Christmas wishes to all. Regular activities to continue to l6 Dec, then 4 weeks break. Next meeting: 10.3Oam Tues 13 Dec, guest speaker, Chris Sparks. Enquiries: Sandra, 66427720; or 0417464946;’
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 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!
“Schaeffer House Museum at 190 Fitzroy Street, Grafton will close from December 18 to January 10, 2023. We will open with a great display of vintage clothes in 2023. Thank you to all the volunteers who working in the Research Room, House and Gardens. Caring for Grafton & South Grafton’s Heritage in so many ways for the beneft of us all. Best wishes for Christmas and a Happy New Year to all! Our contact number for special openings is 6642 5212”. Should you wish to discuss this matter further please do not hesitate to contact me on either (02) 66425212 or 0406397404.
HASTINGS POINT COMMUNITY CHOIR
Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414 794 380
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.
HOSPITAL AUXILIARY MEMBERSHIP DRIVE AT KINGSCLIFF
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.
KYOGLE SUNSHINE CLUB
Meets every Thursday at 9.30am. For more details contact 0499824274.
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.
Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at Kyogle Showgrounds in the luncheon room at 7pm. For more details Phone Jan on 0427293455.
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.
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
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 BASE HOSPITAL
AUXILIARY
Lismore Base Hospital
Auxiliary members would like to thank the community for supporting our Made from the Heart Craft Market at Lismore Workers Sports Club Goonellabah We raised $7,457.45 from the 2 day market.
The raffe was drawn at Lismore Square on the 10th December and we made $2,610.00.
The 1st Prize of $500.00 was won by J Martin Corndale 2nd Prize $100.00 was won by Paul from North Lismore. All money we raise goes towards buying equipment that is on the Lismore Base Hospitals Wishlist. A big thank you to our Artisans who had stalls and to the Lismore Workers Sports Club for their support.
Thank You Rhonda Powell Secretary Lismore Base Hospital Auxiliary
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.
LISMORE EMBROIDERERS GROUP
Lismore and District Embroiderers 2022 Exhibition.
By special request from Crawford House this exhibition has been extended until the end of January 2023. This will allow those who missed out on seeing the exciting range of embroidery art works in November to now have more time to plan a visit.
Theme: The Natural World – celebrating the natural environment around us.
Venue: Crawford House Museum, 10 Wardell Road, Alstonville.
Date and times: December 2022 and January 2023. Fridays 10am-4pm and Sundays 1-4
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 fatpack
Minor maintenance work
for the elderly & disabled Working with the disabled Talking with other members or simply having company Memberships: $40-year Attendance Fee: $3 tea/coffee Location: 15 Industry Drive East Lismore
LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC.
Lismore Orchid Society now meets 3rd Wednesday each month, 2 - 4pm 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 be meeting on Friday, 16th December, at Summerland House Farm at 12 noon for a Christmas Lunch. We are thrilled to join with Parkinson’s Specialist Nurse, Rebecca Manners and our two wonderful patrons, Janelle Saffn, MP, and Jenny Dowell, OAM to welcome our new specialist Parkinson’s nurse, Tim Ayers. All members of the Parkinson’s community and family and carers are invited to share this very special occasion. Please RSVP Di Tel: 0423941119 before Dec 4 to assist with bookings.”
Meet at the Goonellabah Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome
LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS
Please join us…... Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat…. Sharing Craft & Ideas.
From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds (off Bruxner Hwy) Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug) Contac: Kim- 0423935060 Linda- 0419489987 Email ~ lismorespinnersandweavers@ gmail.com
LISMORE TARGET RIFLE CLUB for .22 calibre rifes, meets Wed nights from 6.30pm & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 1.00 pm. Air rife shooting for .22 & 177 air rifes will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).
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.
EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome
MAINLY MUSIC
Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included.
Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200
NR U3A LISMORE INC. (UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE)
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.
PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS
Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St.
Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/ text Pam on 0418766247 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.
ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING
Want to be part of an
innovative, interesting and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a difference in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you!
Meets 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.
ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE
Interested in contributing to community? Local and international?
The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Options Cafe, Main St. Alstonville until further notice. Join us at Options please. Phone 0435 990 919 for more details.
SOUTH GUNDURIMBA HALL
Christmas Dance- Old Time/New Vogue
Saturday 17th December 2022. Starting Time @ 7:30pm
Entry: $8 includes Supper
Raffes and Lucky Spots. Welcome to dress in Christmas Theme For further information please phone Allan on 0418664015
Music- Judy Johnston on Keyboard
SPRUNG
Sprung!! is a registered charity and a notfor-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/
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
MULLUMBIMBY
There will be a CWA Christmas Stall out the front of the Mullumbimby Woolworths on Saturday morning, 17 December. We will be selling handicrafts, baked goods and Christmas treats so please come along and say hello
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.
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.
POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB
Meets at Black Rocks Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375. 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.
POTTSVILLE LADIES LIFEBALL
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.
TWEED HEADS
Poets and writers on the Tweed meet every Tuesday at the South Tweed Sports Club 1.30-3.30pm. Beginners welcome. Phone 0755248035.
TWEED HEADS PROBUS CLUB
Probus Club, Coolangatta/Tweed Heads. Be at Club Tweed at 10-00am on
the frst Wednesday of the 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
Yamba Day View Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Yamba Bowling Club on 3rd Monday of month, starting 10am for 10.30am. Acceptance and apologies to President Lyn 66463164 by Friday prior to luncheon for catering purposes. We hold a monthly social outing either for lunch or morning tea and visitors are always welcome.
YAMBA LIONS CLUB
Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members welcome.
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.
Are you interested in exploring the beauty that our region contains.
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.
Northern Rivers District:
Mostly sunny day. Slight (20%) chance of a shower in the north. The chance of a storm in the north in the morning. Winds westerly 15 to 20 km/h shifting east to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.
Thursday. Partly cloudy. Slight (20%) chance of a shower along the coastal fringe, most likely in the evening. Light winds becoming east to northeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.
Northern Tablelands District: The chance of a storm near the Queensland border in the morning. Sunny day. Light winds becoming west to southwesterly 25 to 35 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening.
A possible shower or storms in the northeast corner. A shower or two in the southeast, mainly near the Victorian border, falling as snow on the Alps above 1200 metres. Fine and mostly sunny elsewhere. Daytime temperatures above average in the northeast corner, and below average elsewhere, most significantly in the west. South to southwesterly winds, fresh in the east, tending southeasterly on the north coast later. Thursday. The chance of a shower near the coast, and over the southern ranges. Snow flurries possible on the higher Alps. Fine and mostly sunny elsewhere. Daytime temperatures above average in the northeast corner, and below average elsewhere, most significantly in the west. South to southeasterly winds, tending easterly on the northern coast.
Byron Coast:
Winds: Variable about 10 knots becoming west to southwesterly 10 to 15 knots during the morning then shifting east to southeasterly 15 to 20 knots during the day. Seas: Around 1 metre.
Swell: Southerly around 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny. The chance of a storm.
Coffs Coast:
Winds: Variable about 10 knots becoming northwest to southwesterly 10 to 15 knots during the morning then tending southeasterly 15 to 20 knots during the day. Seas: Below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the afternoon or evening.
Swell: Southerly around 1 metre. Weather: Sunny.
Gold Coast Waters:
Winds: South to southwesterly 10 to 15 knots becoming variable about 10 knots during the morning then becoming east to northeasterly 10 to 15 knots during the afternoon. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: South to southeasterly below 1 metre. Weather: The chance of a storm in the morning. Mostly sunny afternoon.
High:2:56am1.0m Low:8:11am0.7m High:2:45pm1.3m Low:9:37pm0.5m
High:4:03am1.1m Low:9:28am0.7m High:3:42pm1.3m Low:10:25pm0.4m
High:5:03am1.2m Low:10:45am0.7m High:4:40pm1.3m Low:11:10pm0.4m
High:5:56am1.4m Low:11:55am0.6m High:5:38pm1.2m Low:11:53pm0.3m
RiseSet Sun5:42am7:39pm MoonNil10:32am
Coffs Coast tennis is on a winner as local participants beneft from grants in round three of the NSW ATP Cup Tennis Legacy Fund, said Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh.
As many as 24 tennis clubs, associations and councils across NSW have shared in more than $347,000 in this round, including the Coffs Coast.
The grants program is designed to support grassroots tennis and help people of all ages and abilities play the sport through a partnership between the NSW Government and
Tennis NSW.
Mr Singh said he is delighted the following local project is beneftting from this initiative:
• Woolgoolga Tennis Club: Mums and Bubs Tennis Program $7600
“This grants program is helping to drive the growth of local community tennis by encouraging people to pick up a racquet and boost participation in this sport,” Mr Singh said.
“I congratulate all of our local tennis clubs on the projects they are providing with such passion and dedication
for members of our community.”
Grants of $1,000$50,000 were available through the Fund with applicants required to make a co-contribution.
(Photo)
The NSW Veterans Over 65’s cricket championships are being held in Lismore, Ballina and Lennox Head during the week commencing 12th December, with 10 teams from across NSW joining the local Lismore Emerging Greys (LEGs) cricket team in competition.
The Championships will consist of 2 Divisions, with the 8 teams in Div 1 playing a 40 overs per team competition, while the 3 Div 2 teams will play a 25 overs per team competition, with 2 matches each day.
Matches will be played on the Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at Oakes Oval, Mortimer Oval and Neilson Oval in Lismore and Fripp Oval in Ballina and Megan Cresc. in Lennox Head, commencing at 10.00 am each day.
This is the 2nd NSW O/65s championships and LEGs are the
current joint trophy holder with Port Jackson from Sydney.
Veterans Cricket started with only an Over 60s competition, but the rapid growth has led to O/40s, O/50s, O/55s, O/60s, O65s and O/70s tournaments at regional. State and National levels.
LEGs President, Roger Boyd said ‘It will be great for the local area to have many visitors supporting local businesses, and thanked Lismore and Ballina Councils for their enthusiastic support for the carnival’. ‘It refects the growing trend of our older generations living a healthy and active lifestyle’ he added.
Coffs Coast community sports clubs and organisations can apply for up to $9,000 to access lifesaving defbrillators, as part of the NSW Government’s Local Sport Defbrillator Grant Program. Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said sport is part of the fabric of life in our community, with more people participating in sport and active recreation. “Medical experts say the frst eight minutes following a cardiac arrest are critical, so early access to CPR and a defbrillator is essential to increasing a patient’s likelihood of survival,” Mr Singh said. “This funding will enable local sporting organisations and councils to install these defbrillators so they are equipped to respond to life-threating emergencies.
“I encourage all our sporting clubs to apply for these grants which will help prevent the trauma, and the heartache, that cardiac arrest can cause families.”
Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the NSW Government has
BOWLS
Championship & Competition
Winners 2022.
Singles Championship
Winner - T. Cselka, Runner/ up - G. Marczan.
Pairs - Winners - G. Marczan, P. Weller. Runners/up L. Vidler, B. Montague
Triples - Winners - G. Marczan, M. Carey, T. Cselka. Runners/up - L. Vidler, K. Robson, B. Montague.
Fours - Winners - J. Beckett, L. Vidler, B. Montague, V. Hart. Runners/up - B. Parkes, J. Fernance, K. Hickey, K. Robson.
Springtime Triples - WinnersB. Hancock, K. Townsend, E. Gollan. Runners/up - S. Rose, A. Viney, K. Keevers. Third - B. Cameron, M. Gibson, J. Fernance.
Springtime Fours - Winners - M. McPherson, B. Parkes, P. Freeman, T. Cselka. Runners/up - J. Beckett, B.
Cameron, G. Marczan, V. Hart. Friendship - S. Maxwell, M. Gibson, M. Carey, B. Montague.
Our Springtime Fours Competition concluded on 30-11-22
Round 5 - Skips only - T. Cselka defeated S. Downs. V. Hart defeated B. Montague. K. Keevers defeated J. Fernance.
Final Results - Winners - M. McPherson, B. Parkes, P. Freeman, T. Cselka 5W+34
Runners/up - J. Beckett, B. Cameron, G. Marczan, V. Hart 2W+5
Friendship - S. Maxwell, M. Gibson, M. Carey, B. Montague 2W -15
Ballina Mahjong 9th December 2022
Lesley Richie 1, Carol Meyer 2, Sally Lowry 3, Bev Lasater 4, Gail McDonagh, Margaret Bryant 5, Ronda Taylor 7, Kath Hubbard 8, Shirley Coleman 9, Shirley Atkinson 10, Joy Lowien, Lynda Scott
11, Val Heinritz 13, Susan Scott 14, Coral Lavelle 15, Diana Auret 16, Cindy Smith 17, Jan Small, Valda McLerie 18, Gladys D’Anna 20, Vanessa Reynolds 21, Pauline Bolte 22, Barbara Ellan 23, Lorna Simpson 24, Wendy Thornton 25, Pam Farrell26, Yvonne Weddup 27, Jeanette Henwood 28, Jan Henley 29, Lisa Wong 30, Shirley Henry 31, Susan Allan 32.
Mahjong is played on Friday at 12:30pm at the Ballina Bridge Club North Creek Road.
Enquiries for new players phone Vanessa on 66874181. Cherry Street Croquet Club Sports Results
ASSOCIATION CROQUET G.Drew 12 d P.Waters R.Chapman 9 L.Sampson 16 d G.Porter 9 C.Woodlands G.Drew 10 d H.Young 9 L.Sampson 20 d R.Chapman 18
RICOCHET CROQUET :
P.Waters R.Chapman 16 d D.Scott G.Porter 15 J.Doust R.Poynting 10 d J.Hannigan P.Scott 9 B.Waters N.Poynting 15 d N.Barnes P.Doyle 12 R.Poynting N.Poynting 11 d P.Scott W.Gilmore 7 P.Doyle G.Porter 11 d N.Barnes D.Scott 8
TWILIGHT CROQUET:
M.Rennie F.Duncan 7 d L.Whiteman N.Poynting 5 J.Huxley B.Bill 5 d D.Jones E.Astley 4 M.Rennie J.Huxley 5 d J.Saunders L.Whiteman 4 D.Jones E.Astley 4 d B.Bill W.Gilmore 3 G.Porter 4 d N.Poynting 2 J.Huxley N.Poynting 9 d W.Gilmore D.Jones 7 M.Rennie G.Porter 7 d L.Whiteman J.Saunders 4 F.Duncan R.Poynting 7 d E.Astley B.Bill 2 W.Gilmore G.Porter 9 d J.Saunders R.Poynting 5
Monthly Badge Winners : Association : P.Hume,
committed an additional $2 million over four years to the program.
“Whether you’re at your local sailing club or playing footy with your mates, when someone has a cardiac arrest, time is crucial – they can happen to anyone, anytime, or anywhere so it’s vital that a defbrillator is readily accessible,” Mr Henskens said.
“Through this funding, the NSW Liberals and Nationals Government is ensuring our sport clubs and venues are safe environments for everyone, both on and off the feld.”
The Local Sport Defbrillator Program is available to sport and recreation clubs, associations and organisations as well as councils and service clubs. Up to $3,000 is available per device with organisations able to apply for up to three devices valued at $9,000.
S.Hume, G.Drew. Ricochet : J.Doust, N.Barnes, D.Scott, J.Hannigan. Golf : J.Dorward, L.Wesely, J.OSullivan, D.Jones, M.Rennie, N.Poynting.
TOURNAMENTS: QLD Ricochet Open Doubles Championships : J.Williams F.Meek 1, J.Boys P.Spinks 2, B.McAlister S.Bates 3, D.Smith G.Stronach 4, D.Bell V Cooper 5, J.Wright A.McLennan 6. All new members very welcome Ph:0439240251 Cherrystreetcroquet@yahoo. com EAST LISMORE BOWLS RESULTS CLUB
Mohr, R Prior 9
G Finnigan, P Russell 23 def M Harding, R Parkes 21 Social results
J Burbidge, N Harding 21 def
T Alcorn, M Morrissey 20
R Nind, A Gaggin 25 def R McInnes, G Pollard 12
T Alcorn, J Carrall, Rocco 18 def G Finney, J Burbidge, B Adams 14
A Maslen, T Cheli 22 def A Phillips, S Clarke 21
c McKenna, J Olley 17 def Rocco, S Gregory 13
T Gibson, B Griffn 22 def M Flower, B Adams 16
D Sirach, M Harding 35 def G Pollard, R McInnes 15
A Gaggin, B Griffn 23 def W Morrissey, T Cheli 13
J Helmond, G Finnigan, L Softley 27 def T Alcorn, J Burbidge, Rocco 19
S Gregory, B Griffn 20 def B
Adams, J Carrall 14
T Gibson, J Olley 38 def G Painter, L Softley 3
A Grade pairs
P Nicholls, J Nicholls 27 def R
GT Scotcher, B Lee 23 def G Pollard, W Morrissey 15
The second race meeting of the 2022-23 season at Hessions Auto Parts Grafton Speedway was fought out on Saturday night, and the major wins resulted in the NSW Modlites Title going the way of Queenslander Corey Stein and the return of the V8 powered Late Models scored by fellow Queenslander Carter Armstrong.
In what was his maiden victory in the Modlites class, Stein, from Toowoomba, made it even more memorable due to the fact it was an NSW Title. How Stein’s winning performance played out, he managed to qualify on pole position for the NSW Title deciding feature race and went on to pace the feld for the entire 25-lap distance.
Behind the jubilant Stein at the fall of the chequered fag in the NSW Title decider was defending NSW Champion and another Toowoomba resident Rodney Pammenter in second, while the podium was completed by Rodney’s son Mitch Pammenter in third.
Three-time NSW Champion Klinton Hancey fnished just off the podium in fourth ahead of two-time Australian Champion Terry Leerentveld in ffth. The top-10 fnishers were rounded out by Trent McLean, Callum Beerling, Joshua Herne, front-row qualifer Tyson Snow and
Chris Fing. The action in the Late Models was thick and fast, but when it was all done and dusted, Armstrong proved to be the form driver and by virtue of this came away with the feature-race spoils.
The 20-lap event resulted in Armstrong leading from start to fnish and at the fall of the chequered fag defeated NSW’s David Robertson and fellow Queenslander Aaron Van Zeeland in second and third place respectively. The
In the support classes, the RSA Street Stockers resulted in the feature race going the way of Jakob Lesha who downed Steve Hall and Nathan Diews, NSW Champion Jordan Biviano claimed the Production Sedans feature race by defeating Stuart Fawcett and Aaron Hall, Jaiden Santin scored the RSA Junior Sedans All Stars feature-race win after
he outpaced Jeremy Wade and Brock Stubbs to the chequered fag, and in the RSA Junior Sedans New Stars feature race Luke McNabb emerged triumphant ahead of Jackson Bailey and Poppy Airey. With the busy ChristmasNew Year period just around the corner, it’s certainly going to see Grafton Speedway feature heavily. On the night of December 29, they will host the opening round of the Super Dirt Series for the V8 Dirt Modifeds along
with the support classes of AMCA Nationals, RSA Street Stockers, RSA Four Cylinder Sedans and RSA Junior Sedans. The following night (December 30) the Super Dirt Series for the V8 Dirt Modifeds returns with the second and fnal round, while the support classes are going to be made up of AMCA Nationals, RSA Street Stockers, RSA Four Cylinder Sedans and RSA Junior Sedans.
Grafton Speedway would like to thank Hessions Auto Parts for their support throughout the 2022-23 season. Based in Grafton, along with their nearby Coffs Harbour location, Hessions Auto Parts stock a wide range of parts and accessories at competitive prices.
To fnd out more about Hessions Auto Parts, contact them on 0266 423 085 (Grafton) and 0256 456 361 (Coffs Harbour) or visit their website at hessionsautoparts. com.au.
