The Northern Rivers Times Edition 132

By SAMANTHA ELLEY

As much as you may try, you can’t wipe the smiles off the faces of the BlazeAid volunteers right now.

Two editions ago, The Northern Rivers Times reported that the volunteer group had been asked by Richmond Valley Council to vacate the Rappville showgrounds by January 20.

“We had nowhere to go, so we were packing up and getting ready to move to Forbes,” said volunteer Cindy Lusted.

“Then I got a call from Nicky from Lismore City Council and she said she had a home for us.”

The home being offered to BlazeAid was 15-20 caravan spaces at the Lismore Caravan Park.

“Critically injured wildlife can’t wait until the next business day to receive medical treatment for injuries and illness,” said Foundation Veterinarian Dr Bree Talbot.

“They commonly present with injuries from impact collisions with cars, feral pest and domestic pet attacks, so it is incumbent on humans to provide a service to help them recover. It’s sad that the volume of patients is growing but we’re happy to be able to extend our service, thanks to the support of the International Fund

for Animal Welfare (IFAW).”

“To give our wildlife the best chances of survival, we need to ensure they have access to immediate and specialised treatment,

“It was just unbelievable,” Cindy said.

“We’ve got toilets,

A NEW

showers and half the camp kitchen.

“We have six months there with another six months if we need it.”

Over the next six months Cindy said BlazeAid hoped to get many of the jobs done they were unable to fnish due to the wet weather.

“Now it is dry, the farmers are so happy and are ringing us,” she said.

“They thought we would have had to walk away.”

There are currently 20 volunteers helping farmers to rebuild fences and do jobs around the farms after the damage done from the February 2022 foods.

“We even have 14 year old Bella from the Gold Coast, who is here with her grandmother and she

is learning all these new skills,” said Cindy.

“You can’t wipe the smile off her face.

“We are all walking around with a spring in our step now.”

provide 24/7 veterinary care,” said Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital Founder and CEO Dr Stephen Van Mil.

which is why IFAW is committed to building veterinary capacity together with Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital,’ said IFAW Animal Rescue Officer Robert Leach.

“By supporting this

critical lifesaving work, we are giving animals a second chance at life back in the wild, where they belong.”

“IFAW believes every individual animal matters and by extending this vet

service we are helping to ensure injured animals receive the care they need – no matter the day of the week.”

“It has always been our mission to operate seven days a week, and in time

“Wildlife face peril every single day, from catastrophic bushfires and floods to habitat loss, being hit by cars and other human-induced impacts. With people returning to pre-COVID travel patterns, the potential for negative anthropogenic impacts on wildlife is greater.

Equally, there is greater capacity for people who care about wildlife to make a difference.”

Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital has increased its operating hours to seven days a week

to extend expert veterinary care for injured, sick, and orphaned native animals.

NRLX BUSINESS PLAN SETS PATH TO GROWTH

THE Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) will be seeking expressions of interest from agencies looking to provide services at the state-of-the-art facility following decisions made at Council’s 20 December meeting.

NRLX Operations Manager Brad Willis is pleased Council last night endorsed the 2022 NRLX Business Plan, which aims to position the NRLX as a fnancially sustainable, modern livestock exchange and a leader in best practice saleyard operations.

The expressions of interest (EOI) process will be for a three-year Agent Licence Agreement, which sets the scope of requirements for livestock agencies seeking to operate from the facility.

Mr Willis said the EOI allowed for an impartial, open, and competitive process aimed at refning the businesses which have the beneft of utilising community assets for commercial and fnancial beneft.

He said it was critical Council ensured a competitive marketplace was provided as the community was compelled to utilise the services of an incumbent agent when they chose to sell through NRLX.

“Expressions of interest for agents’ licences will ensure Richmond Valley ratepayers can have confdence the best businesses in the marketplace have been selected to operate from the NRLX,” Mr Willis said.

“Agencies to date have done an excellent job along those lines and future agencies will need to demonstrate a commitment to the facility, customer service, and the values and behaviours commensurate with the NRLX’s status as one of the leading livestock selling centres in the country.”

Mr Willis said obtaining value for money for vendors was enhanced when there was open competition and the market was tested.

He said an increase

in agents meant more opportunities for primary producers and local businesses.

“The message is clear here: We are open for business, we are willing to continue to grow the business, expand our footprint and we are ready to support more farmers across northern NSW to achieve top dollar for their stock,” Mr Willis said.

Council’s General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said it was vital for the NRLX’s future sustainability that the producer continued to pay their fair share towards the facility, and vendor fees remained competitive in the marketplace.

Mr Macdonald said vendors historically contributed most of the fees to the NRLX business and Council had been implementing an incremental realignment of the cost sharing between vendors and agents from the previous model since the completion of the $15 million upgrade.

He said since the introduction of stock price-based vendor charges in 2020, there had not been an increase to vendor sale fees, and with Council’s decision to fx for a further three years it was a signifcant acknowledgement and support of the beef industry.

“In solidifying our offer for producers, the 2023-2024 NRLX Revenue Policy shows no change in core vendor sale fees and these fees will remain fxed to June 2026,” Mr Macdonald said.

“This will mean there have been no vendor sale fee changes in six years.”

The Business Plan also proposes changes to the operational processes at the NRLX, with a key priority to vertically integrate operations and services for the long-term viability and success of the business.

Mr Willis said streamlined information, knowledge, communication, and strengthened biosecurity and animal welfare measures would provide signifcant improvements to services, compliance, effciency, and

sustainability.

He said the plan highlighted current operational challenges, inadequacies of services and demonstrated the benefts and capacity Council had as an organisation to further advance the business for the beneft of the Richmond Valley agricultural sector.

“The plan includes strategies and actions to pursue growth, such as driving momentum in current successful areas of the business on the one hand, while pursuing untapped opportunities on the other,” Mr Willis said.

Another exciting development is the introduction of an NRLX Scholarship Program to enhance the future of agriculture in the Richmond Valley with an aim to commence students in January 2024.

“To build a strong pipeline for talent and reinvest in our agriculture community, we will be offering agricultural scholarships to fnd candidates who want to build a successful career in the agriculture sector, particularly in the beef sector, with great growth opportunities,” Mr Willis said.

The key priorities within the Business Plan are:

• A review of Agent Licence Agreements and the transition to a modern licence agreement with an increased focus on behaviours and values, WHS, biosecurity, transport chain of responsibility, branding, and marketing. The licence agreement will also form the contractual

agreement for the supply of services which will occur with the change of operational processes.

• NRLX Agent Licence Agreement expressions of interest procurement process as an open and transparent market test to reduce limitations and remove entry barriers to the marketplace. A target to have seven agencies undertaking livestock sales at NRLX from 1 July 2023.

• The introduction of an NRLX Scholarship Program

to enhance the future of agriculture in the Richmond Valley with an aim to commence students in January 2024.

• Recruitment and implementation of an NRLX livestock team, including a dedicated Livestock Coordinator and a defned and appointed Animal Welfare Offcer as is now required.

Mr Macdonald said these changes were in the overall interests of future NRLX operations, site users and Richmond Valley ratepayers.

He said it was critical the NRLX remained competitive and fnancially sustainable into the future.

“The NRLX is already a signifcant contributor to the region’s agricultural economy and we need to capitalise on opportunities to further grow its economic output,“ Mr Macdonald said.

The 2023-2024 Draft NRLX Revenue Policy will be on public exhibition until 4pm, Tuesday 28 February. Any person may make a written submission during the exhibition period by sending it to Richmond Valley Council by: Post – Locked Bag 10 Casino NSW 2470 Email – council@ richmondvalley.nsw.gov. au Hand delivery – at either of Council’s Customer Service Centres in Casino and Evans Head Online submission – by completing an online submission form via Council’s website

Casino NRLX business plan sets path to growth

THE NEW BAR, CONTAINED IN ONE AT WOOLI

By MARGARET DEKKER

It’s taking Lego to a whole new level – or levels! - in sleepy Wooli near Grafton with a new bar and café built solely from shipping containers proving quite the talking point in town as it takes shape on the main road in.

Situated at 353 North Street – tightly, between the Wooli Pub and service station - the ‘383 Container Bar’ is the latest offering from the Solitary Island Marine Park Resort and touted as ‘the ultimate gathering space .. a bar, a café, a backyard party .. where kids can be kids.’

Kids of any age, it seems!

The 2-storey structure built from an array of 20-ft shipping containers grouped on top and around each other, is still in construction stage with the containers only arriving before Christmas.

Once completed, the contemporary ft-out will include a restaurant, café, bar, and children’s covered playground in a series of spaces designed by Gavin Welsh of GW Drafting, Coffs Harbour.

The initial idea was for the facility to house an indoor playground only, but the design brief soon expanded to include ‘entertainment’ facilities for the grown-ups as well, inspired by similar designs seen in Victoria and abroad.

No joke, folks … The Sheik of Scrubby Creek, Chad Morgan OAM will headline Wendy Gordon’s first One-Day Muster on April 1 at Ulmarra, NSW, just outside the jacaranda town of Grafton.

The April Fools’ Day event will be held on the site of Wendy’s Clarence Valley Country Muster, which has endured three years of cancellations due to relentless flooding and COVID-19 restrictions.

Sadly, all the infrastructure for the week-long country muster has been washed away down the Clarence, so Wendy has teamed with Kross Kut Studios boss Lindsay Waddington to host three one-day events through the year – in

Island Marine Resort

Up until now, the bar and café complex was ‘top secret’ (according to the Resort’s website) but with the containers slowly moving into place over summer, the facility is now starting to take

You’d be a fool to miss out!

April, July and December – in a bid to rebuild the muster site. In October she plans to open up her beautiful gardens for a series of High Tea events during the Jacaranda Festival.

Joining Chad on the April 1 concert are Terry Gordon OAM, Lindsay Waddington, Allan Caswell, Justin Standley and the Kross Kut Showband, along with walk-up artists for the first part of the day.

Proceedings begin at 9am and continue through until 5.30pm.

Concert-goers can be entertained from early till late, with food and refreshments available onsite. Self-contained guests (motorhomers and

caravanners) are welcome to stay the night via prior arrangement with organisers.

Who doesn’t love to celebrate Christmas in July and what better

place to spend it than on a fabulous property in the beautiful Clarence Valley?

Bring your Santa suit and reindeers along to 11 Coulters Lane, Ulmarra. It’s the original long lunch with entry from 9am to 5.30pm. A delicious roast meal will be available.

From October 28-November 5, soak in the purple haze of Grafton’s famous Jacaranda Festival.

While you’re in the neighbourhood – how about a spot of High Tea in the garden at Wendy’s working cattle farm?

You can be assured of a delicious spread courtesy of the hostess with the mostest. Again, if you’d

like to bring your caravan or motorhome – call Wendy to discuss some options for your stay.

Wendy’s putting the call out for volunteers to help prepare the site for the week-long High Tea events in exchange for self-contained accommodation.

Visitors to the High Tea can browse the variety of market stalls onsite, enjoying a little retail therapy with their tea and scones.

The year’s final gathering is the Clarence Valley Country Muster Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 9. Walk-up artists can take their turn behind the microphone from 9am to noon with the main

ship-shape, not without some concerns from locals about its parking provisions and it being ‘a bit of an eyesore.’

The manager of Solitary Island Marine Park Resort was contacted for comment.

attractions on stage from 1.30 to 4.30pm.

The Clarence Valley Muster has been severely tested in recent times, but Wendy loves welcoming visitors to her rural retreat and can’t wait to see happy faces in the crowd once again.

Admission for these one-day events is just $40 per person and self-contained accommodation can be arranged for a small donation.

For more information call Wendy on 0432 741 947 or email wgordon@ cvcmuster.com.au www. cvcmuster.com.au

“Designed

for parents to kick back enjoy a brew and tasty treat

while the kids play all day in the GIANT indoor playground!” Solitary

proudly states online.

Artist’s impression of the ‘funky’ new addition to Wooli

Taking shape .. ‘383 Container Bar’ on North Street, Wooli Photo: Supplied

MORE FEDERAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR FLOOD-IMPACTED NSW RESIDENTS

Residents in Menindee and the Wingecarribee area can now access additional disaster support – the latest in a range of assistance provided to New South Wales communities impacted by almost fve consecutive months of extensive fooding and storms.

Federal disaster assistance has been extended to two local government areas: Central Darling, including Menindee, and Wingecarribee in the Southern Highlands.

• Eligible residents in the Central Darling Local Government Area (LGA) who have suffered a signifcant loss as a result of the foods, including a severely damaged or destroyed home or a serious injury, can now apply for the one-off,

non-means tested Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment of $1000 per adult and $400 per child.

• People who live or work in the Wingecarribee LGA and have suffered a loss of income because of the food impacts may be eligible for the Disaster Recovery Allowance, which is a short term income support payment of up to 13 weeks. People in Central Darling are already eligible for Disaster Recovery Allowance.

This brings the total number of New South Wales (LGAs) receiving support from the Albanese Government for this event to 76.

Information about payment eligibility

is available on the Services Australia website: servicesaustralia.gov. au/disasterevents.

The easiest way for eligible people to claim is online through myGov.

If people need additional support to claim, they can call the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 22 66 from 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

For information on all the assistance the Australian and respective state governments have made available to individuals, businesses and councils following the extensive fooding, visit the National Emergency Management Agency.

FARMERS WELCOME DISASTER FUND

The state’s peak farming body has welcomed the first round of the $200 million Disaster Ready Fund.

NSW Farmers Rural Affairs Committee chair Deb Charlton said it was positive to see a consolidation of agencies that both prepare for and respond to natural disasters.

“As we’ve seen over the past year or so, when natural disasters strike they come hard and fast,” Mrs Charlton said. “It’s critical we have

arrangements in place so we can not only protect lives and livelihoods, but also respond to the cleanup and recovery quickly and efficiently.

“This consolidation should increase transparency and make the process of identifying, designing and constructing essential infrastructure easier for local councils to support their communities.”

Widespread flooding across the state in 2021 and 2022 caused

VITAL

major damage not only to communities but also farms and rural businesses that were still dealing with the ongoing impact of ruined roads and essential community infrastructure.

Mrs Charlton said community consultation - both for towns and surrounding farmers - had to be a key component of disaster preparedness for the future.

CSIRO RESEARCHERS HELP DELIVER FOOD SECURITY WITH MAJOR

An international consortium of scientists has received a $34 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Agricultural Innovations (Gates Ag One) fund to improve crop productivity and food security in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.

Leading agriculture researchers from Australia’s national science agency CSIRO are part of the Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Effciency (RIPE) project, an international collaboration with the University of Illinois, the University of California, Berkeley, Lancaster University, the University of Cambridge, the University of Essex in the UK and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service.

The project aims to end hunger worldwide by improving the complex process of photosynthesis

to increase crop production.

With the demand for protein set to double in places like Africa by 2050, CSIRO scientist Jose Barrero said the focus is now on improving staple food crops, including cowpea, in some of the most disadvantaged and harsh landscapes on the planet.

“Cowpea is an important vegetable food source for smallholder farmers in Africa where it is a major source of protein,” Dr Barrero said.

CSIRO scientist TJ Higgins said the goal is to develop new improved cowpea varieties that provide better yield and that help deliver global food security in light of the expected population growth in West Africa and the challenging impacts of climate change.

“Existing work by CSIRO and partners on improving outcomes

LINK’S ‘MISSING MIDDLE’

for crops in Africa has already led to the development and commercial release of the world’s frst genetically modifed cowpea in Nigeria,” Dr Higgins said.

“This new cowpea variety is resistant to an important insect pest, the Maruca pod-borer.

“We have already seen major improvements in crop productivity in feld trials conducted by the RIPE project. This new research as part of the RIPE project will have an additional impact on reducing hunger and rural poverty,” he said.

RIPE Project Director Steven Long said the work being done by CSIRO and the RIPE team was world-leading and would have profound implications for smallscale agriculture in developing countries.

Farmers are frustrated by a stoush between state and federal governments that is holding up the construction of a vital freight link.

Recently, Transport Minister Catherine King said the federal government would fund the start and end of the Great Western Highway upgrade, but there was “no money for the middle section” – a tunnel proposed by the state government. According to

Infrastructure Australia, there were concerns about the merits of the project if that tunnel was not funded.

NSW Farmers Business, Economics and Trade spokesman Andrew Martel said the Great Western Highway was a critical link connecting farmers with consumers in the Sydney basin and the world, and people were sick and tired of the delays.

“We were calling for

upgraded road and rail back in 2019, and here we are again approaching another election and we’ve still got political issues stalling progress,” Mr Martel said.

“Secure freight corridors are essential for the agriculture sector to ensure the delivery of fresh produce to the domestic and international markets, and the Great Western Highway is central to achieving supply chain effciency.

“While we welcome the Minister’s confrmation that the $2 billion commitment from the Federal Government remains in place, it’s only for the beginning and end sections, which is useless without that middle connection.”

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, agricultural output from the NSW Central West Slopes and Plains region is close to $2 billion per

annum. Mr Martel said signifcant investment to deliver upgraded modern carriageways and rail corridors from western NSW through to the eastern markets and ports was essential.

“What farmers and rural communities expect to see is our state and federal governments sort these differences of opinion out and get on with the upgrades we need,” he said.

“There’s enormous

economic potential for the state and the nation in agriculture, but to realise it we need to get our produce to consumers.

“It is critical that the NSW Government commit to adequate funding to deliver the improvement in the middle – be it a tunnel or road upgrade – and deliver it within the next term of government.”

Residents confused by new development on food plain

By SAMANTHA ELLEY

What do you get when a local council considers a development application (DA) to establish 60 blocks of medium density housing on a food plain?

The answer is: a group of very confused and concerned local residents.

That is the situation in Broadwater after residents were advised by letterbox drop that Richmond Valley Council had a DA on public exhibition at 59 Rileys Hill Road to undertake a Torrens Title subdivision.

“If they develop 60 blocks of medium density housing, that means there will be duplexes on each block,” said resident Cat Martin.

“At 2-4 residences on each block that could be up to 1,000 extra people living here.”

The land for the proposed development is zoned RU5 – village zone, which allows

February foods, the land in question was completely under water.

The DA’s food report stated that RVC’s Development Control Plan requires all habitable foor levels be elevated to a minimum of half a metre above the 1 in 100 year food event level.

This will mean a minimum of 2.6 metres to 3.9 metres of fll and earthworks will be

• Koala habitats and the introduction of more domestic animals and the increase of traffc.

• The lack of infrastructure in the Broadwater village, with only one service station, no shops and no proper footpaths, will be stretched with the growth in population.

• The discomfort to current residents as the development is

Jemma Donnelly and Betty Archer agreed that more land was needed to relieve the housing stress on the Northern Rivers, but suggested there were better options.

“People have to have a place to live,” said Ms Archer.

“But why not on the other side of the freeway, which is food free or the

quarry, which is up for sale?”

Ms Martin noted blocks of land currently for sale in the middle of the village hadn’t been selling.

“They need to get out of the food plain,” she said.

“Why can’t they build on the hill?”

While the original development was scaled back from 90 to 60 blocks, Ms Donnelly said it’s a start.

“My frst proposal is to not have it at all,” she said.

“But there could be a compromise where they developed 2.5 acre blocks rather than the smaller ones proposed.”

Resident Neville Murray said he wasn’t against or for the development.

“There just isn’t enough information,” he said.

Outcomes of the community meeting included encouraging all residents to put their submissions in regarding the DA, signing a

petition to let the council and developer know their concerns and possibly organising a community meeting with the developer requesting more information.

Written submissions are invited by residents and interested parties on the development to be in by February 18.

These can be done by:

• post to –Locked Bag 10 Casino NSW 2470

• email – council@ richmondvalley.nsw.gov.

au

• hand delivery – at either of Council’s Customer Service Centres in Casino and Evans Head

• online submission – by completing an online submission form via Council’s website.

Please note comments on social media posts are not considered submissions.

for residential lots of varying sizes and shapes.

However, with the recent food experience in Broadwater and the plans by government bodies to buyback and retro-ft houses for future foods, residents are confused by the plans to continue building homes on a food plain.

“They plan to build the land up to 1.6 metres, which will make it an island,” said Ms Martin.

“That will force water to channel down our street.”

During last year’s

needed to achieve the required habitable height above food levels which is 5.1 metres.

These fgures, however, lifted from the April 2010 Richmond River Flood Mapping Study –Final Report are 13 years old and do not take into consideration the recent food levels experienced in the Broadwater area.

At a community meeting last week, in which residents along Rileys Hill Road and surrounding areas attended, other issues raised also included:

being built with the noise, dust and dirt that accompanies such activities.

• Lack of information so far provided to residents.

While DA papers are online, a meeting with the developer for more details would be preferred.

• The wellbeing and mental health of current residents having experienced the recent food, now dealing with the stress of this development.

Residents Ms Martin,

The community meeting

Betty Archer, Jemma Donnelly and Cat Martin stand in front of the area to be developed.

Water slides a hit

An attraction brought in to help offset the closure of the Grafton Olympic Pool has proved a hit with holiday makers.

More than 3000 people have slid down the inflatable waterslides installed at Grafton Showground between January 10 and 14.

Northern Rivers Jumping Castles free Summer Splash Fun Park at Grafton Showground this week as part of Clarence Valley Council’s Summer Splash program.

There were threes sessions available each day and all were sold out.

In addition to the slides there were sideshow games and food trucks.

Ulmarra upgrade ups speed

The controversial upgrade of the Ulmarra village CBD will pick up speed over the coming months.

Clarence Valley Council crews will be upgrading the water main, laying new drainage pipes and pits, and replacing the road in Coldstream and River streets.

The Bailey Park toilet block, will be replaced and crews will lay new footpaths plus add new lighting, shelters and a playground.

These works will cause temporary traffic and pedestrian disruptions, including reduced parking and limited access.

A temporary carpark and toilet block has been provided near the Rural Fire Service building.

Some Ulmarra residents were unhappy

with the timing of the works, which they say has disrupted holiday trading.

Main drag make over A long overdue makeover of Grafton’s main drag, Prince St, will reveal itself in the coming days.

The Grafton CBD will have a new look and feel, with the widening of footpaths, installation of planter boxes and introduction of nose-in parking taking place.

The trial is part of the Rediscover Grafton project which is funded by the NSW Government’s Streets As Shared Spaces Program to create more vibrant and accessible public spaces.

It includes the section of Prince Street within the two newly upgraded pedestrian crossings between Pound Street and Fitzroy Street.

Crews spent last week implementing the changes on the western side of Prince Street (Cotton On to Flame Trees Café), and will replicate the changes to the eastern side (Harveys Arcade to Best & Less) this week.

Netball courts progress

The redevelopment of the Grafton Netball Courts at Westward Park Grafton is on target for a March opening.

Preliminary works for the upgrade of the Westward Park complex have been complete Benefits of the upgrade include increased accessibility and safety for players spectators and officials, and improved lighting across the facility.

SAFFIN PLEASED LABOR IS GOING INTO BAT FOR MCGRATH FOUNDATION

AS a sea of pink saturated the Sydney Cricket Ground for the Third Test between Australia and South Africa, Lismore MP Janelle Saffin felt extremely pleased of NSW Labor’s commitment to significantly boost funding to the McGrath Breast Care Nurses network.

NSW Labor on Saturday announced a Minns Labor Government will ensure New South Wales will become the first state in Australia where every person with breast cancer will be able to receive the free care and support of a breast cancer nurse, committing $19.5 million over three years to fund an additional 29 McGrath Breast Care Nurses across New South Wales.

This funding will provide an additional nurse for the Northern NSW Local Health District and six additional nurses to the Hunter-New England Local Health District.

Ms Saffin said: “I’m extremely pleased with this announcement. We know that the Northern Rivers region suffered a difficult year in 2022, the

floods greatly impacted access to essential services and continue to have devastating impacts on flood survivors’ day-to-day lives.

‘NSW Labor’s announcement offers local women some certainty that if they are diagnosed with breast cancer, they will have access the specialised care and support,” Ms Saffin said.

“In respect to the extra resourcing that would go to the Hunter-New England LHD, I have sought and secured a commitment that Tenterfield women needing this crucial

service will have additional access.”

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, with 20,428 women and 212 men being diagnosed annually in Australia.

Currently, eight McGrath Breast Care Nurses are funded by the NSW Government. The Government only last Friday (6 January) committed to continuing this funding.

Eight more were previously funded by the state government but the funding was cancelled in 2021. They are now forced to rely on

donations.

McGrath Breast Care Nurses are registered nurses, specially trained to provide invaluable physical, psychological and emotional support, from the time of diagnosis and throughout treatment throughout the course of their treatment.

To date 48,000 families across New South Wales have been supported by a McGrath Breast Cancer Nurse.

A McGrath Breast Care Nurse in a full-time position supports on average 100 patients per year, with 90 per cent of women in Australia living within 75 kilometres of a McGrath Breast Care Nurse.

Research shows that getting early access within the first weeks to a dedicated nurse significantly improves the experience and outcomes of a person with breast cancer, including a reduction in emergency department presentations, reduction in clinical consulting time, and improved medical appointment attendance.

The key is that patients have access to the same nurse throughout their treatment.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin

Diary of a Flood Survivor Part 24

By SAMANTHA ELLEY

The cane in the back paddock was burnt over the weekend.

So whatever debris may have still been lying there for the past nearly 11 months has now gone up in smoke.

There was defnitely something that had been overlooked, as just as the fre was dying down, a loud grinding and screeching sound could be heard.

I raced outside to see a long bluish fame shooting high out of the cane.

Of course, by the time I

had my camera in hand, it had gone, so you will have to take my word for it.

Hubby heard the noise as well and we are guessing it was an overlooked gas bottle. The fames brought a sense of renewal.

Just as the old crop has now been harvested and gone, making way for the new one, untainted by the food, so do many of our lives begin again.

We are now experiencing day to day life in a new year, further away from the food and its memories.

While they are still there, we know every

step we are taking is another step away from our food experience.

As new walls go up, new furniture is obtained and new memories are made, we step further away from the effects of the food, although we will never entirely forget.

But I don’t think we are meant to.

Our experiences over the past year have been to continue developing the character of the people that we are: more resilient, more tenacious and with a better understanding of our limitations and abilities.

Little steps.

Tabulam’s connection to Beersheba charge

By TIM HOWARD

The Clarence Valley’s premier league cricketers resume competition on Saturday to begin the run into the semi-finals with all teams vying for finals berths.

There is a clear leader in GDSC Easts but it

begins the second half of its campaign with its wings clipped after falling to Brothers in the final game before the break.

Easts all rounder Aaron Macfadyen has scored the only ton of the season and his fast bowling has snared key

wickets.

He was a notable absentee from the Easts lineup in their only loss for the season.

And after sitting in second spot since the start of the season, Souths Westlawn has dropped to last spot after two disappointing losses.

Well-known speaker and pastor Col Stringer will be visiting Tabulam this Sunday to share some insights into the Light Horsemen and the incredible role they played during World War One.

“And when we remember that of the 45,000 Australian Light

The big movers have been Tucabia Copmanhurst and Brothers whose seasons have picked up speed.

The two teams share second spot with Brothers behind on run rate, despite recording three wins to Tucabia’s two for the season so far.

The look of the competition table owes a lot to the weather, with Tucabia’s points tally bolstered by three washouts.

The weather has treated the Brethren less kindly, but their performances

Horsemen, 400 were First Nation Aussies,” Pastor Stringer said.

“And the fact that the commanding general, Chauvel, came from Tabulam.”

There are many connections to the band of men from such a young nation, who toppled the Ottoman

have picked up through the season with players like Jake Kroehnert, Mick Summers and Jamie Firth putting together some big scores.

Souths Westlawn began brightly, but have struggled to field the same team week in week out.

Opening bat Anthony Dickson has been a bright spot, scoring more than 200 runs so far and skipper Dylan Cleaver has had his moments.

But the issue has been middle order collapses such as in the last game

Empire, and Tabulam.

“This is a great opportunity to bring unity between our people – not further division,” said Pastor Stringer.

January 22, 10am at Tabulam Church. Enquiries, contact Angelia on 0484 518590

before Christmas.

Chasing Tucabia’s 170, Souths started brightly, to be ahead of the run rate after 10 overs only to be bowled out for 106 just 12 overs later.

On Saturday Tucabia host Brothers at the Ulmarra Showground in the showdown for outright second spot on the ladder.

At Ellem Oval Easts will be looking to find that winning feeling again while Souths Westlawn have to win to keep in contact with the leaders.

GDSC Easts opening bowler Aaron Macfadyen almost finds the edge against Brothers at Ellem Oval on Saturday.

Photo: Gary Nichols

Artwork by Ian Coate

WASTE VOUCHERS HELP LIGHTEN THE LOAD

BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY DATA SHOWS LA NIÑA DRENCHING IN 2022 AS BUSHFIRE

Lismore City Council has increased the number of free waste vouchers available to residents for January and February to help the community dispose of extra waste generated over the summer holiday period, Lismore City Council General Manager John Walker said.

“Council has an electronic waste voucher system where each property is allocated one waste voucher per year. To help dispose of extra waste generated over the holiday period, Council is issuing an extra 1000 vouchers

over January and February,” he said.

“Once a voucher is issued, residents have 30 days to take their waste to either the Lismore Recycling & Recovery Centre on Wyrallah Road, East Lismore or the Nimbin Transfer Station.

“We do ask residents to please sort as much of their waste as possible to allow us to recycle as many items as we can to keep them out of landfill.”

To apply for a free waste voucher and for more information, go to www. northernriverswaste. com.au

MARINE ALGAE WARNING FOR EVANS RIVER

THE combination of calm conditions, northerly currents and warm water

temperatures has seen marine algae blooms grow in and around Evans Head beaches and most recently the Evans River.

Trichodesmium (marine algae) appears naturally in tropical and subtropical ocean waters and are commonly known as sea sawdust, red tide, and sea scum.

Residents and visitors are advised to avoid the affected areas. In most cases, the blooms are generally harmless and can be easily washed

off the skin by rinsing with water. However, if they deplete the oxygen content of the water, they can cause death to aquatic animals and may irritate the skin of some people.

Under certain conditions these blooms, or slicks may become beached, which can result in a putrid, almost ‘fishy’ smell along the beach and shoreline. Its appearance may be brown, green, and pink as it dies off.

These blooms, beached or free floating, usually disappear in a few days.

The Bureau of Meteorology has published annual climate data and key statistics which show that 2022 was wetter and warmer than average for Australia overall, particularly for south east Australia where persistent heavy rain led to repeated and widespread flooding.

Following the La Niña drenching, emergency services and regional communities are gearing up for what could be a serious bushfire season, as high fuel loads couple with a potential return to El Niño conditions later this year.

The ongoing flood emergency in the Kimberley has been described as the worst ever seen in the state with communities cut off, homes inundated, and a significant loss of infrastructure across the region.

“Australians will remember 2022 as the year of the ‘great deluge’, when recordbreaking rain and floods, supercharged by climate change, left a trail of devastation from Queensland down to Tasmania,” Professor Lesley Hughes, Climate Councillor and Professor Emerita, Macquarie University, said.

“The climate risk to Australians is likely to remain high over the coming summer, with more rain and flooding expected in saturated catchments, a high

chance of more tropical cyclones, and warnings of a major Japanese Encephalitis outbreak that could affect up to 750,000 people.

“Australians are footing the multi-billion dollar damage bill from climate-fuelled worsening floods, bushfires, droughts, heatwaves, and storms while the coal, gas and oil companies fuelling climate destruction are raking in piles of cash and paying little to no income tax.

“There is nothing natural about these disasters. They are being unleashed on Australians by decades of reliance on fossil fuels. In Australia, these same companies are enjoying billions in public subsidies. It’s high time we end fossil fuel subsidies and use the savings to create a climate disaster fund so that we can help communities deal with the fallout of compounding and worsening disasters.”

Greg Mullins AO AFSM, former Commissioner of NSW Fire and Rescue and founder, Emergency Leaders for Climate Action, said: “There has been a large amount of regrowth in the forested areas hit by the Black Summer fires that will eventually die off and burn. Our bushfires are becoming far more frequent and severe. If we head into an El Niño

pattern, and it gets hot and dry, anything could happen.

“We’re already seeing warnings for fires in Western Australia, and grassfires are already happening in parts of New South Wales and South Australia, so our fire season is already under way.

“Australia’s current disaster planning and management systems are struggling to keep up with escalating disaster threats fuelled by climate change.

“In recent years, we have seen emergency responders overwhelmed by the scale, speed, and severity of extreme weather events, like the 2022 floods and Black Summer bushfires. Longterm recovery operations are also more challenging because disasters are striking more frequently.

“We need to make our disaster management systems fit-for-purpose in the face of worsening climate disasters.

Governments must invest in emergency services, better disaster management coordination, more accurate risk models, and community resilience programmes.”

David Karoly, Climate Councillor and former leader of the CSIRO Earth Systems and Climate Change Hub, said: “The continuing La Niña event has led to our wettest year across Australia since

the previous multi-year La Niña over 2010 and 2011.

“Despite lower-thanaverage Australian temperatures since the record highs we saw in 2019 prior to this event, we’ve still seen them come in at 0.2C to 0.3C hotter than the previous La Niña events due to global warming. Not only that, the extreme rainfall and flooding that has swept through many parts of the country this year has been made worse by these warming temperatures.

“What we’ve got is a climate system on steroids. Climate change is amplifying extreme events - like the heavy rainfall causing the floods in NSW in 2022 and the heat waves and bushfires in the 2019 Black Summer - making them bigger, more frequent and more dangerous. We are at risk of seeing more weather records broken if we stay on this trajectory of warming.

“Ensuring that we avoid the worsening effects of climate change on our weather systems is paramount to protecting our communities. We need urgent, deep, emissions cuts this decade to limit any further warming. Every fraction of a degree counts. Every tonne of carbon dioxide emissions adds to global warming.”

SAFFIN WELCOMES FIRST ROUND OF $1-BILLION DISASTER READY FUND

Lismore MP Janelle Saffn has welcomed the Australian Government’s new Disaster Ready Fund (DRF), which will provide up to $1billion over the next fve years, from 1 July 2023, to improve Australia’s resilience to natural hazards.

Ms Saffn says she hopes the NSW Government, through the NSW Reconstruction Authority as its nominated lead agency, will identify key projects to better prepare the Northern Rivers and Northern Tablelands regions for future natural disasters that will surely come.

“The NSW Reconstruction Authority, the establishment of which I strongly argued for since the February and March 2022 foods, will work with local councils and communities to identify suitable proposals,” Ms

Saffn says.

“The Disaster Ready Fund (DRF) Round One 2023-24 opened on Tuesday 10 January 2023 with Australian states and territories eligible to apply for a $200-million funding pool. Successful projects are to start from 202324.”

The NSW Reconstruction Authority will be responsible for coordinating proposals for their jurisdiction and submitting applications to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

More on how the Authority will undertake this process can be found on their website.

Frequently asked questions, guidelines and a fact sheet can be located at nema.gov.au.

Projects under DRF Round One 2023-24 can target a broad range of natural hazards, and can include:

(Stream 1) Infrastructure projects, such as • investment in grey infrastructure;

• investment in green-blue infrastructure (including nature-based solutions);

• investment in hazard monitoring infrastructure; and • business case development for future infrastructure (including investigation, modelling, concept and detailed design activities).

(Stream 2) Systemic risk projects, such as • supporting a better understanding of risk, through a better evidence base to understand and raise awareness of risk – to improve understanding of natural hazards and their potential impacts over time;

• strengthening decision making by enhancing governance networks and communities of

practice, including the development and/or alignment of resilience and risk reduction strategies;

• adaptation projects that improve land use planning and development practice projects, including but not limited to the preparation of regional or local plans and updating land use planning instruments and building codes; • projects that build the capacity and capability of businesses, community sector organisations and/or at-risk communities to improve their preparedness and resilience to the impacts of future disasters; and • projects that enable and incentivise private investment in disaster risk reduction.

Applications for Round One of the DRF close 5pm AEDT on 6 March 2023.

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR

ACTIVE AGEING GRANTS

People aged 60 and over in the Northern Rivers will soon have more options to help them stay fit, with applications now open for the ‘Active Ageing’ grants program.

Active Ageing grants are now available to support exercise providers and fitness leaders to provide lowcost exercise programs for people over the age of 60 in the Northern Rivers.

Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) is providing eight grants of $500 to support existing group exercise programs and five grants of $800 to help start new group exercise programs. NNSWLHD Acting Manager Health Promotion Graeme Williams said preventive healthcare plays a vital role in the health system.

“Having access to affordable exercise programs is one of the key things we can do to support people in the Northern Rivers region to stay active and well as they age,” Mr

Williams said.

“Exercise groups are a great way for older people to come together to build their strength, balance and endurance and to connect with others socially.

“Through the grants program, we are particularly interested in supporting new exercise programs for older people in locations where there may not already be many existing opportunities.”

The exercise programs must be delivered in the NNSWLHD footprint (the areas covered by Ballina, Byron, Clarence, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed Councils).

Applications close 27 January 2023. To apply, or for more information visit: healthupnorth. info/activeageinggrant

BLUE-GREEN ALGAE BLOOMS SEMI-TRAILER CATCHES FIRE ON HIGHWAY

Fire crews have extinguished a semitrailer that exploded in flames overnight, blocking the Pacific Highway on the state’s far north coast.

The B-double caught fire in the south-bound lanes of the highway outside Pimlico, south of Ballina, just before 11.30pm.

The truck and trailer were carrying six tonnes of aerosol spray cans, which ignited, causing large explosions at the scene.

The truck driver and another motorist made it to safety as the fire took hold.

The semi also contained bags of gravel and cane mulch.

Three Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) trucks

from Ballina and a Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) appliance from Goonellabah were joined by four Rural Fire Service tankers, NSW Police and NSW Ambulance at the scene.

The firefighters extinguished the truck fire and numerous spot fires caused by the exploding cans.

They also deployed an absorbent barrier to protect the environment from liquid run-off and decanted 400 litres of diesel fuel from the burning rig, which was destroyed in the fire.

Traffic flow was limited to one lane north-bound during the three-and-ahalf hour operation.

The cause of the incident has not yet been determined.

Residents and visitors in certain areas are being advised to avoid swimming and surfng in coastal waters, creeks, and estuaries if they see any signs of blue-green algae.

Blue-green algae, also known as Trichodesmium, is a naturally occurring algae that has been spotted in the lower reaches of Cudgen Creek, particularly in the area near the river mouth in recent days.

Marine winds have dispersed some of the bloom, but the presence of this algae is still a concern for the area.

According to Council’s Senior Program Leader – Environmental Health Marcela Lopez, bluegreen algae blooms are more likely to happen from August to April, when the temperature is warmer.

Trichodesmium may look like oil, slime, or other coloured substances in beaches and rivers and can also have a bad smell like

rotting plant matter or chlorine gas, with some describing it as “fshy”.

Even though most types of Trichodesmium are not harmful, some can produce toxins that may pose a health risk to humans and animals.

Direct contact with blooms of certain species may cause skin irritation, eye irritation, and allergic reactions. Ingesting or inhaling water droplets that contain toxins can cause symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea,

vomiting, and diarrhea.

Due to this, residents have been advised to avoid wading, swimming, or surfng in water where the algae is visible and keep animals away from it. They should also avoid eating shellfsh from affected waters and the water should not be used for drinking or other domestic use. If you come in contact with the algae, wash it off with soap and fresh water as soon as possible.

Trichodesmium is part

of the phyto-plankton family and plays a crucial role in the aquatic food chain.

However, its blooms can be a sign of water quality problems and it’s important to address this issue, especially if the blooms happen frequently or cover a large area. The growth of Trichodesmium can increase under calm conditions, northerly currents, and warm water temperatures but blooms tend to disappear naturally.

BALLINA SHIRE TAFE HIT BY GOVERNMENT CUTS

BONZA SET FOR TAKEOFF

The Australian Government is pleased to announce that Bonza has been granted an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) following a thorough assessment process, thus becoming the newest entrant into the Australian airline market.

This marks the first time in over 15 years that a new high-capacity airline has entered the Australian market, since the launch of Tiger Airways.

Bonza will establish its base of operations on the Sunshine Coast and aims to provide service to regional routes that are

currently underserved. AOCs are mandatory for all airlines that operate scheduled passenger services in Australia and are issued after a rigorous examination of an airline’s facilities, processes, trained personnel, and capacity to operate safely.

This guarantees that passengers can have confidence that they are traveling safely when boarding a flight in Australia. The entry of Bonza into the market is significant for the growth and diversification of the Australian aviation industry, and we look forward to the contributions and innovations that Bonza will bring to the market.

A NSW Labor Government plans to revitalize TAFE and address the skills crisis caused by over a decade of neglect by the NSW Liberals and Nationals.

The vocational education system in New South Wales has been signifcantly impacted by the loss of a third of TAFE’s teaching staff, the sale or planned sale of 14 campuses, a decline in enrolments by 160,000, and a decrease in apprenticeship and traineeship completions by half.

This has affected the Wollongbar and Ballina campuses, with Wollongbar experiencing a 33% decline in enrolments and a 13% reduction in staff, and Ballina experiencing a 45% decline in enrolments and a 17% reduction in staff.

To resolve the skills crisis, a Minns Labor Government will

prioritize TAFE by allocating a minimum of 70% of total skills funding to TAFE, review the vocational education system, engage in an open dialogue with the sector and remove the wages cap that has been impeding productivity for 12 years.

Tim Crakanthorp MP, Shadow Minister for Skills and TAFE said: “NSW is in a skills crisis. In just 12

months the number of occupations of National Skills Priority List has almost doubled.

“These commitments are the frst step in righting the wrongs of the last decade of mismanagement.

“Only a Minns Labor Government will restore TAFE to what it used to be and re-skill NSW.”

Andrew Broadley, Labor Candidate for Ballina said: “Both

Ballina and Wollongbar

TAFEs used to be vibrant community hubs, but now they are shells of their former selves.

“When I speak to the community about TAFE, I always hear back how important it is in making sure our kids get the skills and training they need to enter the workforce.

“TAFE will thrive under a Minns Labor Government.”

COFFS HARBOUR HEALTH CAMPUS EXPANSION OFFICIALLY COMPLETE

A larger emergency department, additional new operating theatres and increased capacity for renal dialysis are just a number of new services that have been delivered as part of the $194 million Coffs Harbour Health Campus Expansion Project.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh was joined by the Minister for Regional Health and Mental Health Bronnie Taylor today to offcially mark the completion of the signifcant redevelopment.

Mr Singh said the NSW Nationals in Government know how important health care is in the region, and this investment will change and save lives.

“Since this project frst began in 2018, health services in the Coffs Harbour region have been transformed, with local patients able to access world-class health care without having to travel,” Mr Singh said.

“Today’s milestone has been a long time coming for our community, and I thank everyone for their contribution in delivering a health campus that we can be proud of for generations to come.”

Mrs Taylor said the project has helped bring high-quality contemporary and accessible health care services closer to home for patients in the Coffs Harbour region.

“The value of health facilities to their communities, especially in regional areas, has never been more

apparent than now,” Mrs Taylor said.

“The project team has worked very hard, alongside staff, patients, families and consumer groups to ensure the new and refurbished facilities meet the needs of the community now and into the future, and I am very excited that work is now complete.”

Refurbishments have been completed on Emergency Department staff areas, perioperative services, support services areas, sterilising

services, medical and rehabilitation wards, outpatient services, cardiac catheter laboratory, education and administration services.

The $194 million project has delivered additional facilities and services for the Coffs Harbour community and surrounding areas, including:

• a larger emergency department

• additional new operating theatres

• a new short stay surgical unit

• additional critical care and inpatient beds

• an expansion of ambulatory care for the community to access outpatient health services

• increased capacity for renal dialysis

• research and education facilities.

Between mid-2012 and mid-2021, Mid North Coast Local Health District increased its workforce by an additional 1,128 fulltime equivalent staff - an increase of 41.3 per cent including 137 more

doctors, 538 more nurses and midwives and 85 more allied health staff.

The District is also set to get a major workforce boost which was announced as part of the 2022-23 Budget.

In 2022-23, the district will invest $776 million in its health services, an increase of $28 million on the previous fnancial year’s budget.

The Coffs Harbour Health Campus Expansion Project is part of the NSW Government’s record

$11.9 billion investment in health infrastructure over the next four years to 2025-26, with nearly a third of the capital allocation in this fnancial year going towards regional and rural health facilities.

Since 2011, the government has delivered more than 180 health capital projects across NSW, with more than 130 projects currently underway – of those, more than 90 are in rural and regional areas.

LETTERS, FEEDBACK AND OPINION

can we be sure that anything will come of it, especially when there is such opposition to these reforms?

We’d love to hear from you!

letters@nrtimes.com.au

Please keep under 300 words

you must 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).

The Northern Rivers Times, management and staff will not be responsible for comments made by the author. Defamatory comments will not be published and the author will be banned and blocked from sending further letters. Letters over 300 words will not be published.

GAMBLING

I am no fan of poker machines, but I am in favour of good policy rather than knee-jerk reactions. That is why I am supporting NSW Labor and their approach to introducing gambling reforms that will work.

Gambling addiction is a complex issue especially when online gambling is so prevalent and difficult to regulate. I am sure that we need to tackle problem gambling and money laundering as well, but we need a well thought out approach that may benefit from

I

some trial and error to understand what will work the best. Chris Minns was the first NSW leader to bring his policy of a cashless card trial to the public, before Premier Perrottet tried to trump him with an announcement that he will simply introduce a cashless gambling card without trialing it first. While this sounds appealing at face value, no details have been given and now we hear that members of the premier’s own cabinet don’t agree with what he is saying. How

NSW Labor has a well-planned approach that involves trialing a cashless gaming card before a full roll-out is considered. This is a policy that is agreed by the party, and it will be implemented if a Labor government is elected in March. Although it sounds like the Liberals are tougher on gambling, in the end words are cheap. The truth is that Labor’s policy is not only more likely to be implemented, it is also more likely to be successful. To address gambling reform, I will be voting for Labor at the March election.

Christine Robertson Local

VOICE TO PARLIAMENT

The voice to Parliament is a waste of time as it has no powers to change anything. The only way things are going to change for indigenous people is for one of them to become prime Minister and for there to be indigenous state premiers.

The fact we don’t have a treaty like what New Zealand has with the Maori is pathetic and totally long overdue the only way out for dysfunctional dystopian life’s that indigenous people live is a treaty and for them to be in positions of power to to be able to decide their own futures and that of their land, that allows black and white to live harmoniously amongst one another.

Alan Mosley Yamba

LISMORE’S SOLAR CARPARK

The Solar Car Park in Lismore’s Clyde Campbell carpark is certainly an impressive structure and on reading the article in the NRTimes 5/1/23 page 13, an impressive price as well at $650,000.

The article says it ‘was funded through a $1 million grant provided by the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Program to 52 NSW councils to complete infrastructure and other drought-relief projects.

I wouldn’t call the solar carpark a drought-relief project. More like a

Labor/Greens sustainable renewable project.

Helping farmers and others impacted by the drought like bushfire victims, plus the Rural Fire Service would be what I call droughtrelief.

Also, I would have used some of the money to install 20,000+ Litre rainwater tanks for whoever needed more water. At an approx. price of $5000 each installed would enable 130 households to have a water tank ready for the next drought for the equivalent price of the solar carpark. Not sure if it would make much of a

difference in alleviating the pressure of Dunoon Dam running out of water in the foreseeable future but it would be a start if every household had a rainwater tank.

So, the idea of a carpark was beneficial as it provides much needed shade for 34 cars and 4 motorbikes, and vehicle shade is what Lismore CBD needs more of, but it will be interesting to see how many people use the two electric vehicle charging spaces, and I hope it is flood proof as it is in a flood area.

Lynette Evans Numulgi

and positivity to the region.

The tour, which runs for 9 days starting on March 16th in Coffs Harbour and fnishing on March 24th in Noosa, will cover a distance of 1020km, and Ballina will be one of the overnight stops.

This event is a major fundraising effort for cancer research and I am committed to raising funds to support this worthy cause.

Cancer is a disease that has affected the lives of many people, and this tour gives me the opportunity to help in the fght against cancer.

As a local resident of Ballina, I am proud to represent my community in this tour and hope that it will bring awareness

The tour will be televised on Seven’s Sunrise program every morning with updates provided by sports reporter Mark Beretta, allowing the public to follow my journey.

As one of the 141 riders and an additional 30 support crew members, I am looking forward to this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

I urge the community to support me and the Tour de Cure by visiting my fundraising page through the QR code provided on the poster.

Every dollar donated brings us closer to a cancer-free world.

This Tour is not only physically challenging but also a way for me to do something for the greater good and I would be honored if you support me on this

journey and give towards cancer research.

“I am so excited to be taking part of this

incredible tour and I have, like many lost family and beautiful friends to Cancer.

“I am riding for them and hoping one day we will have a cancer free world.

“Ballina Insurance Brokers are proud to support me in this cause.

“All donations

appreciated; every small donation helps!”

Tour de Cure’s mission is to cure cancer.

Through inspirational cycling tours and events across Australia, they fund the boldest research, the most talented scientists, and the pioneering cancer projects that we believe have the greatest potential impact to fnd a cure for cancer.

See tourdecure. grassrootz.com/ signature-tour-2023/ kerry-humphries for more.

am honored to announce my participation in the 2023 Tour de Cure Signature Tour as a representative of Ballina Insurance Brokers.

‘Leemo Cat’ back with nifty news. As I have been told to read so much by ‘Mum Jane’ (aka Queen of Bossiness) I was enthralled to read that I can BUY a ROYAL TITLE. How nifty is that?! Now all I need do is suck-up enormously to Mum and get her to loan me the loot. Hmmm. I must frst decide by which Title I wish to be addressed. For $325 I can choose from Sir, Baron, Viscount, Earl, Duke. Oooh, I like the sound of DUKE LEEMO..how Royal is that! There’s more..I have to be a Duke of something like the Duke of Wellington or the Duke of Norfolk or York, you know! Ponder. I might ask ‘Mum Jane’ accompanied by some suck-up stuff. ‘Mumsie Wumsie, I have decided I would like to be called Duke Leemo…but I’m stuck with the last bit, where or what will I be Duke OF do you reckon? Can you help me out here? She looked me dead in the eyes like a shark ready to pounce (do sharks pounce? I’ll check it later) and replied. ‘Sure Leems, I can think of heaps of prodigious things you can apply to your ‘Duke Leemo’ title. How about ‘Duke Leemo of Dumbness’. ‘Duke Leemo of Calamity’. Apart from my wounded feelings, I felt she was TRULY NOT taking my aspirations to be called ‘Duke Leemo’

earnestly. Hmmm. New approach needed. ‘Mum, if you can fnd a dignifed end part for my soon-to-be ‘Duke Leemo’ title, I shall buy YOU a birthday present. You will be so touched by my thoughtfulness Mum. During my reading about how to get my Duke Title, I can also buy you a ‘Your Ladyship Title Pack’ for only $44..my total savings! (She fainted but kinda recovered so I went on.) The ‘Your Ladyship’ pack come with a personalised gold embossed Title Certifcate with your own Crest, including a legal Title Deed for 5 square feet of dedicated land within the Hogun Manor Estate situated on the west shore of Coniston Water, Cumbria, U.K. If you want to use the Crest on your jars of jam and chutney for CWA in the future you may. You may also visit your ‘5 square feet estate’ as many times as you want and have a picnic. You must admit Mum, my gift is pretty nifty is it not? I shall be ‘Duke Leemo’ and you will be ‘Lady Jane’. Your image may require enhancing to compliment your new title Mum. Do you perhaps have jewels, tiaras or fne silk low cut gowns (showing your bosom) slippers & glovies?’ (I know she bought a fan the other day from the Op Shop for 50c..it is from Assisi where St Francis hung out caring for outcasts & animals and nature.) I, ‘Leemo Cat’ am so elated right now. I’ve found the perfect birthday pressie for Mum, now all I have to do is get her to loan me $325 for a Dukedom. I put it in a ‘Dukey’ way. ‘Mum, if I collect every leaf and piece of bark in our yard and put it in our green bin, make you a cup of tea and clean out the fur from our Robovac, may I borrow $325 please?’ Well, at least her answer was concise..it was “NUP”.. BUT if you do what you are saying you’ll do, I’ll consider you getting a $44 Lordship Title.’ Yipppee.. ‘Lord Leemo of Lismore.’ I’ll start on my chorsies. Purrsies ‘Lord Leemo’.

$100 MILLION JOBS BOOST FOR REGIONAL NSW

Driving productivity and growth for local businesses, attracting new investment to the regions and boosting job security will be the focus of the next round of the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government’s Regional Job Creation Fund.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the $100 million Regional Job Creation Fund Round Three will provide grants for regional businesses to expand their operations, and attract interstate and international businesses to relocate to regional NSW.

During a visit to Cape Byron Distillery at Byron Bay today, Mr

Toole said the grants would allow businesses to boost production lines, deliver new equipment and embrace future technologies to drive effciencies and productivity.

“The Regional Job Creation Fund will create 6,500 jobs across key industries, and this new round will build on that by attracting additional advanced manufacturing capability to our regions,” Mr Toole said.

“We’ve already seen the difference this fund is making to regional businesses, including Cape Byron Distillery, which received $240,000 from the program to expand its production line and create 12

full-time jobs.

“It’s just one of nearly 200 businesses to beneft from this record investment in the previous two rounds, generating more than $360 million of private investment into regional NSW – and now we want to build on that by opening Expressions of Interest (EOI) for our next round of funding.

“This Fund is doing exactly what it was designed to do – creating jobs in regional NSW that support the economic growth of our regions, and ensure business confdence from Bourke to Byron Bay.”

Eligible businesses can apply for grants of between $100,000 and $10 million for projects

such as replacing plant equipment, upgrading technology and ensuring businesses that might otherwise have to relocate can remain based in regional areas.

Expressions of Interest for Round Three of the Regional Job Creation Fund open on Friday, 13 January 2023 and close 5pm Monday, 6 March 2023. Successful EOI applicants will be invited to submit detailed applications from May 2023.

For further information about the Regional Job Creation Fund, including program guidelines and eligibility criteria, go to: www.nsw.gov.au/RJCF.

COUNCIL TO SEEK SUPPORT FOR SPECIAL RATE VARIATION

Tweed Shire Council is seeking support on plans to apply for a Special Rate Variation ahead of the 2023/24 Budget cycle.

Council is seeking to apply for a 2.35% rise in general rates in addition to the 4.0% rate rise approved for the Tweed by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) – an independent body that determines the level of rates able to be collected by councils across NSW.

Council’s General Manager Troy Green said this would allow Council to increase its rates revenue by 6.35% for the 2023/24 year.

“While Council was in a good fnancial position at the start of this fnancial year, there are some challenges ahead, with an infationary environment for goods and services, wage increases, insurance premiums increases and an unprecedented growth in development applications,” Mr Green said.

“We are also facing increased information technology costs as we must retire our on-premises corporate system and move to a cloud-hosted software solution along with further investment in our cyber security

monitoring to protect our network and our data.

“Unfortunately, if we are to maintain our current level of services, we have no alternative but to apply for a Special Rate Variation (SRV) to our general rate levy ahead of our next Budget cycle.”

Councillors will be asked to formally decide on whether to apply for the Special Rate Variation at the upcoming Council meeting in February 2023. The SRV is only applicable to ordinary and special rates.

The SRV application comes after Councillors voted against seeking

a similar rate variation last year, to help lighten the burden on Tweed ratepayers in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated border closures.

Rates are assessed on a rate in the dollar of the land value supplied by the NSW Valuer-General, under an independent process undertaken every 3 to 4 years.

Under the Valuation of Land Act 1916 (NSW), Council is required to assess rates on the most recent land value of a property provided by the NSW Valuer-General.

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

‘MUM, I want to be given a ‘ROYAL’ title!

THE NEXT GENERATION OF NURSES AND MIDWIVES

Aspiring nurses and midwives are encouraged to choose a rewarding career with NSW Health, with support available through cadetship and scholarship programs in 2023.

Applications are now open for NSW Health’s Enrolled Nurse Scholarships, Aboriginal Nursing and Midwifery Cadetship Program and Aboriginal Nursing and Midwifery Scholarships.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said eligible school leavers and people considering a career change can apply for these cadetships and scholarships across NSW, which will provide professional and financial support to help them achieve their goals.

“The NSW health system is the best in the country because of our amazing workforce providing world-class healthcare to local

communities every day. If you are an aspiring nurse or midwife, there is no better place to learn and work than in our public hospitals,” Mr Hazzard said.

“These cadetship and scholarship programs will also help further boost and upskill our nursing and midwifery workforce to meet the growing demand in our public hospitals across NSW into the future.”

Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said nurses and midwives are a vital part of our health system, especially in rural and regional NSW.

“I encourage anyone who wants to become a nurse or midwife to start their career with NSW Health by applying for these cadetships and scholarships, which provide guidance and opportunities to explore a variety of clinical settings,” Mrs Taylor said.

“Placements are

available in our rural and regional hospitals, which are great places for nurses and midwives to build their skills and knowledge across a broad range of specialities, while caring and advocating for their local community.”

The Enrolled Nurse Scholarships offer a position in the Diploma of Nursing program, cover course fees and lead to employment as an enrolled nurse in a NSW Health facility, following standard recruitment and registration processes.

Minister for Skills and Training Alister

Henskens said the cadetships and scholarships would help kickstart the careers of NSW’s future nurses and midwives.

“The Liberal and Nationals Government is committed to providing world-class training to create a pipeline of skilled healthcare workers,” Mr Henskens said.

“These opportunities create workforce pathways so nurses and midwives in training are getting the practical skills and experience they need for jobs in the health sector.”

The Aboriginal

Nursing and Midwifery Cadetship Program, and Aboriginal Nursing and Midwifery Scholarships provide Aboriginal people with the opportunity to receive financial and professional support during their university studies.

Nurse cadet Maya Svagelli said the Aboriginal Nursing and Midwifery Cadetship Program helped her to build confidence in her nursing skills and knowledge.

“The best aspects of the cadetship was the experience of working in varied healthcare settings. I was able

to work in different areas such as inpatient aged care, inpatient orthopaedics and primary healthcare settings,” Ms Svagelli said.

“I

The NSW Government 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.

The NSW Government is also incentivising hard-to-fill, critical roles in hospitals and health facilities with an $883 million investment targeted at recruiting and retaining staff in regional, rural and remote areas.

would highly encourage Aboriginal nursing students to apply for this program for the experience and support that is provided to you throughout your degree.”

FOR as long as human beings have frequented in groups (for support and safety) we have been structuring and tiering ourselves along predominantly power orientated lines. Where we fit in with regards to our dominance, or resounding lack of, has determined so much of what we can do, where, how and when.

The origin of the word ‘power’ is derived from the Latin word potere, which means “to be able.” And being able to do what you like in the manner of your precise choosing pretty much constitutes the essence, albeit simplest explanation of what it means to wield power.

The Ancient Greek philosopher, Plato once observed, “The measure of a person is what they do with power.” Which is a wonderful metric to use to assess the merits and demerits of every leader and system of government throughout history. That many have come back with a ruinous “fail” against their name does not surprise.

Having made several trips to Germany over the years I remember each time being impressed how there is very little trace or reference given to one of the most deluded and destructive individuals of all-time. That being Adolf Hitler; for a tyrant that spoke in terms of instigating a reign that would last a thousand years, it is fitting it lasted little over 10-years before it was reduced to absolute rubble.

History’s consummate fathomer, if not connoisseur of the gross subtleties of power and its abuses, George Orwell wove into his cult classic 1984, the line: “Power is

not a means; it is an end. One does not establish a dictatorship in order to safeguard a revolution; one makes the revolution in order to establish the dictatorship...The object of power is power. Now you begin to understand me.” And understand him we do, especially when we turn our attention to the likes of Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping –two very self-invested peas in virtually the same political pod.

When it comes to Russia (a country with a rich culture I have always admired) the true ‘leader’ that history will one day recall, along the same lines as South Africa’s Nelson Mandela, will be the anti-corruption campaigner and qualified lawyer, Alexei Navalny. That Navalny is wasting away in a Russian prison cell is a disgrace, but it is one that will end with his ultimate triumph; already he has been recognised with an award from Amnesty International for being a prisoner of conscience.

Relatedly, the German social seer of sorts Friedrich Nietzsche, once said: “The same causes which tend to promote the belittling of people, also force the stronger and rarer individuals upwards to greatness.” It is thanks to the exceptional resolve of people like Mandela and Navalny, that tyrants and flawed regimes do not annex everything they see for the sole benefit of their own paltry selves.

As an apt warning, albeit a reminder to each of history’s rulers that have occupied their seats of power with an abject lack of conscience, Pablo Neruda once chimed, “You can cut all the flowers but you cannot keep Spring from coming.”

OFF THE BACK OF CLIMATE CRISIS, MORE MUST BE DONE TO SUPPORT RICHMOND AND TWEED COMMUNITIES

The peak social services body in NSW is calling for energy price relief, better dental care, and more secure and affordable housing for residents across the Richmond and Tweed region as part its policy platform in the lead up to the NSW election.

The NSW Council of Social Service (NCOSS) has put forward eight recommendations for policymakers to consider, in a bid to better support NSW citizens.

The recommendations respond to the situation in the Richmond and Tweed region, which according to NCOSS’ 2022 Cost of Living Survey of low-income households, is seeing:

• 47 per cent in housing stress

• 28 per cent experiencing a negative change to their housing arrangement (such as rent increase, eviction, damage to home)

• 28 per cent unable to pay a utility bill on time

• 22 per cent going without medication / healthcare

• 13 per cent going without a meal

NCOSS CEO, Joanna Quilty, said the past three years of constant

upheaval has taken a toll, and the community is looking for practical support around the rising cost of living, housing insecurity and healthcare.

“The climate events of the past couple of years have smashed local communities and we know it’s lowincome households and disadvantaged communities who have borne the brunt,” Ms Quilty said.

“That’s why we need investment that wards off widening inequality and entrenchment of disadvantage.

“We have reached a tipping point where families are being hit by rising costs, stagnant wages, and on top of all that, seemingly neverending natural disasters.

“Social services are on the frontline supporting these families, and we’re seeing frsthand the toll that it’s taking. We need urgent and purposeful action to combat these pressures.

“We are calling on policymakers to endorse our Policy Platform and work together to build a fairer NSW, including in the Richmond and Tweed region, which has been hit hard.

“As an example, according to NCOSS research, housing overcrowding was reported by 16% of respondents in Richmond-Tweed, and 44.9% of households renting were in housing stress, compared to the NSW average of 35.5%.

“The annual economic loss in the region due to fow-on impacts of housing stress on productivity and participation, is estimated at over $10 million dollars. The entire community suffers if that’s not addressed.

“Worryingly, the region saw the fourth highest increase in Domestic and Family Violence in the state – 33% over the course of the pandemic.

“That means $780 million in estimated costs for the region associated with this increase in violence over the period 2020-25including direct health and productivity costs as well as indirect costs due to pain, suffering and premature mortality.

“While an estimated $230 million will be lost in productivity over the period 2021-25 due to increases in poor mental health in the regionincluding anxiety and

depression amongst the employed population, but on average, NSW spends 33 per cent, or around $53 less, on community mental health services per resident than other states and territories.

“We have consulted extensively with our frontline services and broader networks over the past four years to inform these eight recommendations – they refect the pressing needs on the ground.

“We are also calling for extended contract terms and adequate annual indexation for social services organisations.

“This will allow social services providers to better support those who desperately need consistent and steady help and will provide job security and certainty for the largely female workforce.”

The recommendations are grouped into three categories: cost of living relief, supporting the most vulnerable, and social services sector sustainability.

For more information, and to read a copy of the Policy Platform, visit www.ncoss.org.au.

Power to the people…by Nigel Dawe

Planning still underway

TENTERFIELD HEAVY VEHICLE BYPASS ON TRACK

LISMORE MP Janelle Saffn has received confrmation from the Australian Government that two projects relating to the New England Highway – Tenterfeld Heavy Vehicle Bypass – planning and construction – remain on track.

Ms Saffn says Tenterfeld residents had had diffculty fnding out information about the proposed bypass so she requested an update from Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King.

“Minister King’s offce confrmed that the Australian Government in July 2017 committed $10 million for the planning phase,” Ms Saffn says.

“Transport for NSW started this work in January 2018 and it is still underway with additional studies, including an up-to-date traffc study.

“I’ve stressed the need for Transport for NSW and its consultants to properly consult Tenterfeld’s business community and local residents.”

Ms Saffn said Minister King’s offce also confrmed that the construction project

was announced at the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO) 2021-22 with the Australian Government committing $96 million and the NSW Government $24 million, for a total cost of $120 million.

“Construction start was scheduled for late last year (2022), and construction end, for late 2024,” Ms Saffn was told. “However, a new construction start date will depend on fnalising the planning project, contributing to the 2022-23 October Budget decision to defer this project for two years”.

The two-lane New England Highway currently passes through the centre of Tenterfeld and is restricted by numerous intersections and nearby buildings with minimal setback from the road.

The proposed 4.5-kilometre bypass aims to reduce congestion in the town centre, and move trucks and heavy vehicles out of the town, improving the effciency of the inland Sydney to Brisbane National Land Transport Network and safety for all road users, including freight transport.

$5M CLARENCE WAY PROJECT NEARS COMPLETION

A 3.7km stretch of newly sealed road is nearing completion at Keybarbin, north of Baryulgil in the upper Clarence Valley.

The Kungurrabar Creek to Flagstone Creek Upgrade is completely transforming the previous section of dirt road on the Clarence Way, 86km northwest of Grafton.

The $5 million reconstruction project, which commenced

in early 2022, has involved earthworks, new culverts and swale drains, guard rail, road widening and sealing.

Wet weather and foods had a signifcant impact on the rollout of the project, with a total of seven weeks of work lost between February and May.

However, formation and drains are now completed across the entirety of the project.

1.2km is fully sealed and the remainder is

due to be completed by early 2023.

The Clarence Way is a key access road for local agricultural industries and an important connection for regional freight between Grafton and the Bruxner Highway.

The project is cofunded by the Federal Government’s Roads to Recovery Program and NSW Government’s Bushfre Industry Recovery Package.

NO STOPPING MAJOR WORK ON COFFS HARBOUR BYPASS

Detailed design has been fnalised

The detailed design for the Coffs Harbour bypass has been fnalised, clearing the way for major construction to start in March.

The main changes to the design include refnements to the Englands Road, Coramba Road and Korora Hill interchanges.

While there have been design updates, the overall design, including tunnels, has not changed.

The detailed design refnements have been made following extensive consultation including on the environmental impact statement and refned design in 2019, during the concept design display in September 2018 and ongoing discussions with key

stakeholders since planning approval in December 2020.

There was signifcant collaboration between Transport for NSW and the Ferrovial Gamuda Joint Venture before these changes were fnalised.

The community is now being asked to provide comments on the project’s refned design.

Feedback on the detailed design can be made until Monday, 20 February and further details can be found at www. pacifchighway.nsw.gov. au/coffsharbourbypass.

Static displays of the design will be available from 11 January 2023 at:

• Coffs Harbour bypass display centre, 54 Moonee Street;

• Coffs Harbour City Council Offce, corner of Coffs and Castle streets;

• Harry Bailey Memorial Library, corner of Duke and Coffs streets; and

• Toormina Library, Minorie Drive, Toormina.

The $2.2 billion Coffs Harbour Bypass project is being jointly funded, with $1.76 billion from the Australian Government and $440 million from the NSW Government.

Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“The Australian Government is investing in critical infrastructure projects, such as the

Coffs Harbour Bypass, right across NSW.

“This project will be a game-changer for all those who rely on this busy segment of the Pacifc Highway, saving them time, increasing safety, improving accessibility to the Coffs Harbour CBD and boosting food immunity.

“These design changes are minor but will improve traffc fow and be better for motorists as well as nearby residents during construction and operation.

“Importantly, this milestone also paves the way for major construction to begin in March – which will support local jobs and stimulate the state and national economies.”

Quotes attributable

to NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway:

“The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is securing a brighter future by building the infrastructure that matters to the Coffs Harbour community with the Coffs Harbour Bypass.

“This project is part of our Pacifc Highway upgrade; once this and the M1 to Raymond Terrace projects are complete, you will be able to travel between Sydney and Brisbane, and not encounter a single traffc light.

“Our Pacifc Highway upgrade is making daily life easier for you and your family not to mention small businesses by providing you with a

quicker and safer way to get from A to B.”

Quotes attributable to State Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh: “One of the key themes we heard during the community consultation periods was the community wanted simplifed interchanges and the detailed design incorporates that feedback.

“The Coffs Harbour Bypass is the most signifcant infrastructure project in our community’s history and will transform our town by removing 12,000 vehicles from the CBD, making life easier for locals to get to work or drop the kids off at school.”

Kungurrabar Creek to Flagstone Creek upgrade

City of Coffs Harbour

CALL FOR MORE CREATIVES

City of Coffs Harbour is once again calling out for local creative professionals and businesses to join their “creative services panel” for its 2023 intake.

Launched in 2022 as an initiative to seek assistance with marketing and communications activities, the creative services panel has been a huge success, with dozens of engagements to date.

“Since establishing the panel last year there has been an overwhelming response to have another intake. So we’re calling out for local businesses who aren’t already on the panel to put their creative credentials forward,” said Chris Chapman, Acting General

“It’s been fantastic to see both the quality and quantity of creative businesses based in our LGA. We look forward to meeting more of them and working together in 2023 and beyond.”

The City has a huge job to do in terms of promoting services, facilities, initiatives and programs to the community - from the arts through to tourism, nature programs, environmental education, disability initiatives, lifeguards, events, sports - the list is long.

Through seeking out local creative businesses and adding them to the panel, the City is able to use these suppliers more readily.

The creative services that the City is looking for include:

• Photography and/or videography services

• Branding and/or graphic design

• Print management and/or direct mail

• Digital marketing and/or website services and/or

• Copywriting and/or

• Other services required as part of a promotional and marketing campaign

The 2023 intake will be open from Tuesday 10 January and close on Tuesday 28 February 2023.

For more information and how to join the panel, head to the Business section of City of Coffs Harbour’s website.

Australia Day Awards

RECORD NUMBER OF NOMINATIONS

Lismore City Council received a record number of nominations for this year’s Australia Day Awards.

Fifty-four community members were nominated across seven categories: Citizen of the Year, Aboriginal Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, senior and junior Sportspersons, Services in Community and Sports team.

Mayor Steve Krieg thanked those who took the time to nominate someone they knew for an Australia Day Awards.

“It is not surprising that we received so many nominations this year, given the way our

BE SCAM AWARE THIS NEW YEAR

With a range of exciting events on offer in the coming weeks the NSW Government is encouraging people to remain vigilant and avoid disappointment when buying tickets to sporting and entertainment events online.

Minister for Fair Trading Victor Dominello said as demand for event tickets increased there was also a rise in scams and scalping.

“People need to buy tickets from reputable platforms to avoid the risk of re-selling where the cost is often increased to exorbitant levels, in violation of State laws,” Mr Dominello said.

“Some consumers may also be scammed if they purchase tickets from resellers then fnd the ticket is invalid or not refundable if an event is cancelled.

“If online offers or private sales seem ‘too

good to be true’, it’s often because they are.

“We can learn from previous cases of issues in ticket scalping, such as when tickets to the 2022 National Rugby League were offered at 49 per cent above the original price on eBay.

“eBay was issued a $44,000 fne, so there are serious consequences.”

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said everyone has a right to attend their favourite

concert or support their sports teams without the fear of being scammed.

“It is important consumers know about the risk when buying from a reselling platform and know how to identify scams,” Mr Henskens said.

NSW Fair Trading urges consumers to report scams to the ACCC’s Scamwatch site: https://www. scamwatch.gov.au/ report-a-scam.

community responded and helped each other out after last year’s natural disaster,” he said.

“Australia Day Awards give us a chance every year to honour those passionate people in our community who dedicate a large part of their lives to building a stronger healthier community with no thought of personal gain.”

“I’m also happy to announce that sports presenter and soccer commentor Andy Paschalidis will be Lismore’s 2023 Australia Day Ambassador.

“It’s ftting that in sports-mad Lismore

our Australia Day Ambassador made his career talking sport.

Having worked in the game since 1983, Andy is a true football tragic. He’s covered some of soccer’s biggest events, including multiple World Cups and European Championships.

“I encourage everyone to come along to our Australia Day Awards from 9am on 26 January at the Goonellabah Sports & Aquatic Centre, listen to Andy’s keynote speech and most importantly thank and acknowledge our Australia Day nominees and Award winners.”

Manager at City of Coffs Harbour.

BALLINA HOOKS NEW ARTIFICIAL REEF IN FISHING BOOST

NSW Health is advising the community to be aware of the signs and symptoms of rare but severe, invasive bacterial infections following recent increases in cases.

Executive Director of Health Protection NSW, Dr Richard Broome said there had been increases in both meningococcal disease (IMD) and invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) infections in recent weeks.

Cases of IMD were above average in NSW towards the end of 2022, and cases of iGAS have increased in NSW, in other states, and overseas.

Dr Broome said it was important the community was aware while the infections are very rare, both can be very serious and can cause death or permanent disability.

“In their early stages, invasive bacterial

infections including IMD or iGAS sometimes mimic symptoms of viral infections like COVID and influenza, and can also follow or occur at the same time as a viral infection,” Dr Broome said.

“Rapid intervention and effective treatment for invasive bacterial infections are available and can be lifesaving. We urge people to pay close attention to symptoms, trust their instincts, and seek urgent medical care if symptoms worsen or if they or the people they care for appear very unwell.

“While notification data on iGAS has only recently become available in NSW, the number of people unwell with the condition has clearly increased here and across the world,” Dr Broome said.

Ballina will be home to a new artificial reef under the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government’s commitment to drive sustainable recreational fishing in NSW.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the Offshore Artificial Reef, a purpose-built structure placed on the sea floor and designed to withstand a one-in-100year storm event, would provide a high-quality fish habitat in a big win for recreational fishers.

“Ballina is already

home to the Big Prawn - and now we want to also make it home to big catches,” Mr Toole said.

“The new reef will create the perfect marine environment for a range of fish species, enhancing recreational fishing opportunities so that even more locals and tourists can drop a line and land a catch, while also providing significant ecological benefits.

“Ballina is the latest site of nine reefs already delivered by the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government, which

have already produced spectacular results as underwater habitats come alive with a diverse range of fish and marine species.

“We know how popular fishing is across the Ballina region, and delivering this new offshore reef is a great use of recreational fishing fees, ensuring even more fishers can claim their catch for many years to come.”

Ballina Bait and Tackle owner Brett Hyde said the reef will be a big hook for bringing new

fishers to the area.

“Creating a milliondollar reef will be a great tourism driver for our region and a boost for the local economy, while also providing a benefit to keen local fishos,” Mr Hyde said.

NSW Department of Primary Industries will now undertake further detailed assessments and consultation to determine the most suitable locations off Ballina for the reef to be placed.

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.

NOMINEES ANNOUNCED FOR THE 2023 BALLINA SHIRE AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS

The Ballina community has banded together and shown its true Australian spirit recovering from a pandemic and last year’s devastating foods.

This Aussie spirit will be recognised at the Australia Day Celebrations hosted by Ballina Shire Council on Thursday 26 January 2023.

Ballina Shire Council is inviting the community to come along and congratulate this year’s Australia Day Award nominees and winners, welcome our newest Australian citizens, and refect on the Australian story.

The celebrations will be held at Lennox Head Cultural Centre commencing at 9am and will feature the citizenship ceremony, the Australia Day awards, and performances by singer Katie Rutledge and young Alstonville singer and songwriter Levi Maxwell.

Ballina Shire Council is delighted to have both Liz Ellis and Sandra Jackson return as co-hosts for this year’s ceremony.

Liz is one of Australia’s elite athletes and most successful netballer ever. Liz was captain of the Australian Diamonds and the Sydney Swifts netball teams and holds the record for the most test matches played for Australia. Liz is a sports and current affairs commentator, author, mother and resides in Ballina Shire.

Sandra is a well-known face and voice in Ballina Shire. She has been on our airwaves as a radio announcer with Paradise FM for over 20 years.

Sandra is also Ballina Shire Council’s Events Support Offcer and has hosted many community events and Australia Day awards ceremonies.

Australia Day Award

Nominees

Over ffty nominations received across the categories of Sporting Achievement, Arts and Cultural, Volunteering, Young Citizen, Senior Citizen, Community Event, and Environment will be recognised and celebrated on the day.

The nominees are:

Senior Citizen of the Year

Anna Dicker

Kerrie Gray Brian Alston

Joyce Emmett

Volunteer of the Year

Ballina State Emergency Service Bonita Avery and Cheryl Morton Douglas Townsend

Emma Tiaitia

Ballina Shire Flood Recovery Distribution Hub

Garry, John and Joshua Joblin

Helga Hawkes

Jackson Connellan

Joan Gibson

Kelli-Ann Potts

Lennox Head Lions Club

Mark Ross

Michele Robertson

Rex and Di Farrell

Robyn Hargrave Ruth Henderson Sue Chapman Terry Hodgetts

Young Citizen of the Year

Chai Healy Illarah Roberts Jackson Connellan Lachlan Jones

Community Event of 2022

Ballina Shire Meals on Wheels Social Activities Program

Community Mental Health SymposiumRotary Club of Ballinaon-Richmond

Dementia Inclusive Ballina Alliance Advisory Group Weekly Activities

Lennox Head Lions Club Flood Relief and Recovery

Quota Alstonville Craft & Garden Fair

Resonator Music –School Showcase 2022 Sports Achievement

Alexander CrimminsAthletics

All Girls Surfriders

Lennox Head

Alstonville Water Polo Briony Leonard – Little Athletics

Emma TiatiaVolleyball

Julie Davies - Netball

Kim PickeringPickleball

Lennox Beach Line Dancers

Mary Davis – Dragon Boat Racing Team Butcher Off Road

Racing Team

Tyler Dogan - Athletics Arts and Cultural Award

Daniel Roberts, Marcus Ferguson and Tania Marlowe – Ballina Airport Public Artworks

Tania Marlowe and Debra Cole - Jugan Dandii Weaving Collective Marcus Ferguson – Nyangbal Cultural Knowledge Holder and Teacher

Environmental Award

Empire Vale Public School - Reusable Cup Trays

Marlon Denning –Rock Pool Waltz Nature Documentary

Rotary Satellite Club of Ballina Lifestyle The Wildlife Twins

The awards ceremony will conclude with the announcement of the 2023 Ballina Shire Citizen of the Year.

Transportation is available for community members unable to drive to the venue. For details contact Council’s Communications Team on 1300 864 444.

The event will also be livestreamed, to watch visit Ballina Shire Council’s website at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ AustraliaDay

This event is proudly supported by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council, NSW Government’s Reconnecting Regional NSW Community Events Program and Ballina Shire Council.

RESISTANCE TO LOGGING CARNAGE CONTINUES IN BULGA FOREST

The community of the Bulga Plateau and friends turned out again recently, to stand in the way of the logging machines to try and prevent further forest carnage in the Bulga State Forest.

Access to the logging area was blocked by a young forest protector on a tripod. Isla Lamont, 21, was born in Taree.

“The Bulga Plateau with its waterfalls, forests and secret swimming holes has always had a special place in my heart.

“I spent some of the happiest days of my life here. It is one of those places where all is green and good in the world. I couldn’t stand idly by knowing that the bulldozers were destroying Bulga forest. If not me then who?

“It’s only 3 years since this area was ringed by fire. So many animals died. The gum trees might have leaves on them again but the animals are only holding on to existence by the tips of their claws.

“If I have children I want them to have the chance to see Greater Gliders, Sooty Owls,

Spotted-tailed quolls and Koalas,” Isla said.

Isla was supported by dozens of other people, holding colourful banners and signs, many with koala masks and chanting ‘Save our Forest Home!’

They were joined by Greens MP Sue Higginson.

The Bulga Forest is west of Port Macquarie, on a ridge of the Great Dividing Range, it’s forests are the water catchment for the towns Port Macquarie, Wauchope, Taree and Wingham.

The area was caught between the Rumbadump and Coombes Complex fires in 2019. At that time the local community, set up their own 24 /7 ‘community support hub’ and provided food and support for dozens of fire crews and affected residents over many weeks.

Now they have set up a ‘forest support camp’, to provide food and care for all those who come to help resist the killing of the trees.

The camp has been set up at the Ellenborough Falls campground.

The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government have fast-tracked the opening of applications for the $500 million Regional and Local Roads Repair Program.

Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said councils across the state can now apply earlier for their slice of $500 million in NSW Government funding for urgent road repairs.

“Our priority is to make sure NSW roads are in the best condition possible so tradies and truckies can work and families can make their way home from holidays safely,” Mrs Ward said.

“All 128 councils are eligible for a one-off payment to help them

fix roads that have been damaged by successive severe weather events throughout 2022.”

Councils need to make an application to Transport for NSW, which will allocate the funds based on total kilometres of roads managed in each local government area.

The funding split will provide $280 million for rural and regional councils and $220 million for councils in Greater Sydney and outer metropolitan areas. This new money is on top of existing funding and assistance to councils including the Regional Roads Block Grant program and NSW Disaster Assistance Arrangements.

CAT CONTROL EFFORT SUPPORTS RECOVERY OF NATIVE WILDLIFE

A recent trapping program coordinated by North Coast Local Land Services and Clarence Valley Council has seen the removal of 19 feral cats from sites around Grafton, reducing the threat to the survival of many native species in the area.

The control of feral predators on the North Coast is regarded as a key action to support the recovery of native wildlife populations after the 2019-2020 bushfires.

Senior Land Services Officer, North Coast Local Land Services, Tiffany Felton said the results of the trapping program have been fantastic thanks to the productive collaboration between North Coast Local Land Services and Clarence Valley Council staff.

“During the trapping program cats were transferred to Clarence Valley Council’s animal

shelter and checked for microchip identification.

Owned and identified cats were returned to their owners and cats that had acceptable behaviour were rehomed,” Tiffany said.

“Most animal captures were feral cats that were euthanised in

accordance with animal welfare standards.”

Feral cats are having a devastating impact on Australia’s native wildlife due to their exceptional hunting skills. More than one million birds are killed by cats every day in Australia.

Both domestic and feral cats are a significant threat to the survival of many native species including about 80 endangered and threatened small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

This project is supported by North

Coast Local Land Services and Clarence Valley Council through funding from the Australian Government’s Bushfire recovery package for wildlife and their habitat.

Natural Resource Management Coordinator, Clarence Valley Council, Reece Luxton said the project provided an opportunity to learn more about the prevalence of stray and feral cats in the region.

“Some stray cats with feral behaviour were being fed regularly by people on public land. These cats were not owned or cared for responsibly. These animals were known to be breeding in significant numbers at the site of capture which further increases the level of harm to local wildlife,” Reece said.

“To prevent cats killing native wildlife pet owners are encouraged

to adopt responsible pet ownership guidelines,” Tiffany said.

“These including registering your pet with your local Council, keeping your cat indoors or in a purpose-built enclosure, and desexing your cat as early as possible to prevent unwanted litters.

“Responsibly cared for cats are also less likely to fight with other cats reducing both injury and stress.”

If you encounter a stray or feral cat you are encouraged to contact your local animal shelter or Council and report it on the online tool FeralScan: https:// www.feralscan.org.au/ feralcatscan/default.aspx Further information about this program is available by contacting Andy Vinter, Senior Land Services Officer, North Coast Local Land Services on 0447 194 848.

COFFS COAST NOMINATED IN GLOBAL GREEN AWARDS

In November 2022 the Coffs Coast was selected by global organisation Green Destinations’ as having one of the Top 100 Green Destination stories in the world.

The Coffs Coast story entry, Two Path Strong, celebrates Aboriginal tourism on the Coffs Coast and the rich culture that has supported the establishment of the first bilingual school of an Aboriginal language in NSW, The Gumbaynggirr Giingana Freedom School (GGFS).

This story of sharing Gumbaynggirr culture and knowledge of Country across the Coffs Coast has now been nominated to receive a Global Green Destinations Story Award, in the Culture and Tradition category. The awards will be judged by sustainable tourism experts from

around the world and winners be announced at ITB Berlin on the 7th March 2023 at the Green Destinations Story Awards ceremony.

“We are very excited that our story has been shared with the world and now to be the only Australian story in these global green awards is phenomenal,” says Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation (BMNAC)

CEO Clark Webb.

“We are honored and proud that the story of our Gumbaynggirr Giingana Freedom School and our award-winning cultural tourism businesses are nominated in the Culture and Tradition category,” says Mr Webb, who is also the owner operator of Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours.

Known as the

‘sharing people’, the Gumbaynggirr people are widely celebrated for giving their abundant food, waterways and knowledge to others, so it’s fitting that they receive international recognition for their success in sustainable tourism and Indigenous education.

Acting General Manager, City of Coffs Harbour, Chris Chapman said: “It’s so exciting to

be the only Australian destination nominated in these global awards and I urge people out there to also vote for our destination story in the People’s Choice category.

“Our region is further cementing its status as an ecotourism centre with a significant cultural story that will be shared around the globe.”

Ecotourism Australia CEO, Elissa Keenan added her congratulations. “The Coffs Coast continues to support local sustainable tourism ventures and encourages ECO Certification among local ecotourism and nature tourism businesses elevating their mission to protect the natural landscapes that draw travellers to the destination year after year.”

Gumbaynggirr Giingana Freedom

School, NSW first bilingual Indigenous language school is located in Coffs Coast, along with an array of award-winning tours, cafes and cultural experiences run by the Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation (BMNAC). The region is also home to 8 Ecotourism Australia-certified businesses and experiences, with several more being supported by City of Coffs Harbour to achieve Eco Certification over the coming months.

Vote for Coffs Coast Destination to win the People’s Choice Award. Voting is open now and ends on January 24th at 9am Australian Eastern Standard Time. To ensure fair selection, votes are limited to one per person. Go to www. greendestinations.org.

Building approvals and home values falling at a record pace, with more to come

Australian building approvals fell for a third straight month at the end of 2022, with Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data revealing the number of houses and apartments planned in November were almost half the record achieved in March 2021 at the height of the pandemic.

The data release coincides with the latest Corelogic research which also shows home values falling nationally at a record-breaking pace in the past eight months due to rising interest rates, albeit from signifcant highs.

The ABS data reveals dwelling approvals fell 9 per cent seasonally adjusted in November, accelerating the 5.6 per cent drop recorded in October.

The total of 13,898 approvals compared with a high of 23,522 in March 2021 when buyers rushed the market to take advantage of the federal government’s HomeBuilder grant.

“The result was

driven by private sector dwellings excluding houses, which decreased 22.7 per cent,” says Daniel Rossi, the ABS head of construction statistics.

This indicates the biggest pullback occurred in high-density developments such as apartment projects, with approvals for private sector houses falling by just 2.5 per cent in comparison.

“The November result is the third consecutive month of declines for total dwelling approvals, having fallen 21.7 per cent since August,” says Rossi.

The biggest falls were experienced in NSW, where approvals were down 18.4 per cent, followed by Western Australia (down 17.5 per cent), Victoria (down 12.7 per cent) and Queensland (down 5.6 per cent). Tasmania and South Australia both recorded gains with the former surging 75.7 per cent and the latter 10 per cent.

The latest housing approvals data have combined with the record fall in Corelogic’s Daily Home Value Index to paint a bleak picture for the residential sector nationally. The weight of interest rate increases and rising construction costs have been weighing on the market which remains broadly undersupplied as refected in the national vacancy rate.

According to Domain, the national vacancy rate in November stood at a record low of 0.8 per cent, which was almost half the level a year earlier.

Master Builders Australia says the ABS fgures refect the economic pressures facing the construction industry, leading CEO Denita Wawn to describe the downward trend as ‘concerning’.

“It’s clear that we are facing signifcant challenges which need to be addressed head-on if we want to weather the storm and see a

sustainable recovery,” Wawn says.

“There have been signs that detached-house building approvals had stabilised, but recent months indicate that they are moving downwards. Higher density home building approvals, which are particularly sensitive to interest rate movements, had shown momentum during 2021 but this is now on the way down.”

Meanwhile, the building approvals downturn has been matched by a record fall in residential property prices as the latest CoreLogic Daily Home Value Index fell a record 8.4 per cent on 7 January 2023 from its peak on 7 May last year.

According to the researcher, this beats the previous record of an 8.38 per cent fall between October 2017 and June 2019. However, the key difference is that the latest fall took just eight months, compared with 20 months previously, while further

falls are expected this year.

“The main force behind record home value falls is the recent cycle of rate hikes that have risen at the fastest pace on record,” says Eliza Owen, CoreLogic’s head of residential research in Australia.

“A 300-basis-point increase in the underlying cash rate over just eight months has resulted in a rapid reduction in borrowing capacity, lowering the amount buyers can offer for homes.

“In addition to constrained borrowing capacity, higher interest costs may be dissuading potential buyers altogether.”

Owens says weaker demand for housing may refect Australia’s ‘hangover’ from the frenetic pace of sales during the 2021 property boom which saw an estimated 619,531 properties change hands – the biggest volume of housing sales in more than 18 years.

CoreLogic reveals that the downturn is being led by the three largest capitals, with Sydney’s falls from peak to trough at 13 per cent, followed by Brisbane (10 per cent) and Melbourne (8.6 per cent).

Perth has been the standout with values only down 1 per cent from their August high.

“Over the coming months, housing market conditions are expected to remain soft,” says Owen.

“The underlying cash rate is likely to see further increases in 2023, with market expectations pricing a peak of around 4 per cent, while the median forecast from Australian economists is lower at 3.6 per cent.”

Owen says the erosion of borrowing capacity will ‘likely prolong the country’s housing downturn until interest rates stabilise’.

Located in the highly sought-after estate of Gays Hill, you’ll find this truly unique, newly renovated 5 bedroom home that is a class above the rest!

It’s not hard to fall in love with this property as you enter through the front doors with all the features that transform this house into a home.

Starting with the 5 spacious bedrooms all boasting built-ins, with the guest room coming with a walk-in wardrobe and the master featuring an ensuite and walk-in wardrobe as well.

The stunning, completely renovated kitchen is an open plan area which features top of the range Smeg appliances, induction cook top, designer range quartz countertops and finishes with a large walk-in pantry.

The kitchen adjoins the dining room which is complete with a brand new woodfire heater and flows into the cosy lounge room area.

The bathroom has been beautifully renovated and designed to suit all with a large open rainfall shower and free-standing bath.

The large entertaining back deck is a hidden gem of this property.

Overlooking the backyard, the inground pool area and the breath-taking views of the surrounding farmlands, this veranda is perfect to sit and watch the afternoon sunset with a co ee or have a BBQ with a few friends.

The large brick shed/man cave is a great additional to this home as it would be perfect to be transformed into a pool house, granny flat or

Locally

WORLD BANK’S GLOBAL ECONOMIC PROSPECTS REPORT SLASHES GLOBAL GROWTH FORECASTS IN 2023, PUTTING MULTIPLE COUNTRIES AT RISK OF RECESSION

The World Bank has slashed its 2023 growth forecasts to levels teetering on the brink of recession for many countries.

Its announcement comes as the impact of central bank rate hikes intensifes, Russia’s war in Ukraine continues and the world’s major economic engines sputter.

The development lender said it expected global GDP growth of 1.7 per cent in 2023, the slowest pace — outside the 2009 and 2020 recessions — since 1993.

In its previous Global Economic Prospects report in June 2022, the bank had forecast 2023 global growth at 3 per cent.

It forecast global growth in 2024 to pick up to 2.7 per cent — below the 2.9 per cent estimate for 2022 — and said average growth for the 2020-2024 period would be under 2 per cent — the slowest fveyear pace since 1960.

The bank said major slowdowns in advanced economies, including sharp cuts to its forecast to 0.5 per cent for both the United States and the euro zone, could foreshadow a new global recession less than three years after the last one.

“Given fragile economic conditions, any new adverse development — such as higher-than-expected infation, abrupt rises in interest rates to contain

it, a resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic or escalating geopolitical tensions — could push the global economy into recession,” the bank said in a statement accompanying the report.

The bleak outlook will be especially hard on emerging market and developing economies, the World Bank said, as they struggle with heavy debt burdens, weak currencies and poor income growth, as well as slowing business investment, which is now forecast at a 3.5 per cent annual growth rate over the next two years, less than half the pace of the past two decades.

Weakness in growth and business investment will compound the already devastating reversals in education,

health, poverty and infrastructure and the increasing demands from climate change,” World Bank President David Malpass said in a statement.

China’s growth in 2022 slumped to 2.7 per cent, its second-slowest pace since the mid-1970s — after 2020 — as zeroCOVID restrictions, property market turmoil and drought-hit consumption, production and investment, the World Bank report said.

It predicted a rebound to 4.3 per cent for 2023, but that is 0.9 percentage-point below the June forecast, due to the severity of COVID-19 disruptions and weakening external demand.

The World Bank noted that some infationary

pressures started to abate as 2022 drew to a close, with lower energy and commodity prices, but warned that risks of new supply disruptions were high, and elevated core infation may persist.

This could cause central banks to respond by raising policy rates by more than currently expected, worsening the global slowdown, it added.

The World Bank called for increased support from the international community to help lowincome countries deal with food and energy shocks, people displaced by conficts, and a growing risk of debt crises.

It said new concessional fnancing and grants are needed, along with the leveraging of private capital and domestic resources, to help boost investment in climate adaptation, human capital and health, the report said.

The report comes as the World Bank’s board this week is expected to consider a new “evolution road map” for the institution to vastly expand its lending capacity to address climate change and other global crises.

Its plan will guide negotiations with shareholders, led by the United States, for the biggest revamp in the bank’s business model since its creation at the end of World War II.

REINFORCING NSW AS A GLOBAL QUANTUM CENTRE

Quantum computing startups and deep-tech companies will be supported to advance their innovations through the NSW Government’s new $7 million Quantum Computing Commercialisation Fund.

Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology Alister Henskens said NSW’s quantum ecosystem is uniquely placed to be a global leader of quantum technologies.

“Thanks to the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government’s strategic investment over the past decade, NSW is leading the nation in quantum research and development, boasting world-leading companies such as Silicon Quantum Computing, Diraq and Q-CTRL,” Mr Henskens said.

“Our 20-Year R&D Roadmap recently identifed our world class quantum ecosystem as an area of competitive advantage, and we want to help our State fourish in this area to create new jobs and industries which will grow the economy and help secure a brighter future for the people of NSW.

“This fund will target both startups and existing deep-tech

companies to ensure that innovative projects are accelerated towards commercialising quantum computing, maintaining our momentum and reinforcing NSW’s position as a global quantum centre of excellence.”

NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte said the Fund would support companies with quantum computing hardware or software within Technology Readiness Level 3 – 7, to help them develop their technology and attract large-scale private investment.

“The quantum technology industry has the potential to generate up to $4 billion in revenue and create 16,000 jobs by 2040,” Professor Durrant-Whyte said.

“Quantum technology is already revolutionising many aspects of our society and economy, including transport, health care, fnancial services, defence, weather modelling and cybersecurity.”

Further information, including guidelines and an online application form can be found online. Applications close at 10am AEDT 2 February 2023.

The World Bank’s latest report notes some infationary pressures began to abate at the end of 2022

It warns risks of new supply disruptions are high going into 2023 As low-income countries deal with food and energy shocks and conficts, the World Bank called for increased support

SATURDAY

JAMIE OLIVER: TOGETHER

TEN, 6.30pm

TEN, 8.45pm

Young couple Sam (Rose McIver) and Jay (Utkarsh Ambudkar) are trying to turn the somewhat ramshackle country house they inherited into a successful B&B. After a near-death experience, Sam can see and hear the many ghosts who inhabit the house, so the couple always have some spirited helpers to call on. In this episode, feisty jazz singer Alberta’s (Danielle Pinnock, pictureda) Prohibition-era expertise comes in handy when Sam and Jay run into complications during a whiskey tasting soiree.

MONDAY BODY OF LIES

7MATE, 10.30pm

FRIDAY, January 20

Meanwhile, Isaac (Brandon Scott Jones) wants to start his own ghost fraternity, but nds the others joining a group set up by Trevor (Asher Grodman), because of the fun it promises.

6.00 Old People’s Home For Teenagers. (Final, PG, R) Part 5 of 5.

7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at today’s top stories.

7.30 Monty Don’s Adriatic Gardens: Venice. Part 1 of 3.

8.30 Endeavour. (Masv, R) Part 2 of 3. After a taxi driver who owes a large debt to a colleague is found dead in his vehicle, the investigation leads Endeavour to a nudist colony where guests are making the most of the spring sunshine.

10.00 Miniseries: The Accident. (Ml, R) Part 3 of 4.

10.50 ABC Late News.

11.05 Miniseries: Us. (Final, Ml, R) Part 4 of 4.

12.05 Unforgotten. (Malv, R) 12.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Supertrains: The Race For Speed.

8.30 Inside Central Station: Mardi Gras. (PGa, R) Takes a look at the diverse nature of the sta and crew working across the Sydney Trains Network.

9.25 How To Build A Nuclear Power Station. (R) Part 2 of 2.

10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 Gomorrah. (MA15+v, R)

2.00 The Kimberley Cruise: The Full Journey. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am WorldWatch. 9.30 Shortland St. 11.00 The Movie Show. Noon Assholes: A Theory. 1.30 Figure Skating. 2021 ISU World C’ships. Ice dance. Replay. 3.15 WorldWatch. 5.15 Takeshi’s Castle. 5.45 Joy Of Painting. 6.15 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.40 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Hoarders. 9.20 Booze, Bets and Sex That Built America. 10.55 News. 11.50 Raw Comedy Festival. 1.30am My Life Online. 2.00 Future Man. 3.10 Late Programs.

(1968, G, R) 2.00 Border Security: International. (PG, R) 2.30 Beach Cops. (PG, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. (R)

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Johanna Griggs meets Colleen, an artist who creates paper sculptures. Ed Halmagyi cooks sword sh. Dr Harry Cooper checks out a basset hound club. 8.30 MOVIE: The Sound Of Music. (1965, G, R) On the eve of World War II, a novice nun becomes a governess to a large Austrian family. Her enthusiasm quickly wins over the children, reigniting their stern single father’s zest for life and love. Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer, Eleanor Parker. 12.05 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Stage 3. Norwood to Campbelltown. 116.8km. Highlights. From Adelaide. 1.00 Home Shopping.

6am Home Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Our Town. 8.00 Harry’s Practice. 8.30 Million Dollar Minute. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Stage 3. 3.30 Medical Emergency. 4.00 Surf Patrol. 4.30 Better Homes And Gardens. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Border Security: International. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 Australia’s Big Backyards. 11.30 Late Programs.

Based on the novel by journalist David Ignatius, Ridley Scott’s hard-hitting on terror as waged by Americans on foreign soil, and back home in the US. Leonardo DiCaprio plays a young ltrates a terrorist cell under the remote instruction of an indi erent CIA veteran (Russell Crowe, above). Writer William Monahan, who won an Oscar for Martin Scorsese’s The Departed, successfully brings the novel’s gritty urgency and combative character dynamics to the big screen as the mismatched pair team up to bring down an emerging terrorist leader.

With Jamie Oliver, it’s about more than just the recipe: he’s peddling an idyllic, laid-back and good-looking lifestyle. The veteran British chef and cookbook author dishes up simple and colourful fare that looks mouth-watering, but the world he inhabits is just as intoxicating. In this new series, scenes of friends and family relaxing and eating at an e ortlessly styled table hit all the right aspirational notes. Tonight, Oliver whips up a gorgeous spread that’s the perfect way to say thank you to those you love. The summery feast includes Mediterranean salmon, lemon potatoes, garlicroasted tomatoes and a unique summer pudding. It’s all washed down with prosecco cocktails. 2001

Open. Day 5.

Melbourne Park.

Roz Kelly.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 5. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey. 12.00 New Amsterdam. (Mamv, R) Sharpe notices the hospital’s blood supply is running dangerously low, Max concocts a plan to save the day. Reynolds realises he has a thing or two to learn from Bloom. Iggy helps a patient face their inner demons.

1.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) Revisit some accommodation favourites, from Yorke to the Barossa.

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) Skippy helps two teachers who get into trouble hiking in the park.

6am TV Shop: Home Shopping. 7.00 Cre o Dollar Ministries. 7.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 10.00 Australian Open Tennis

(PG, R) 4.00 Farm To Fork. 4.30 Bold. (PG) 5.00 News.

6.30 The Project. Hamish Macdonald, Georgie Tunny, Michael Hing and Julie Goodwin take a look at the day’s news.

7.30 The Graham Norton Show. Graham Norton is joined on the red couch by Cate Blanchett, Margot Robbie, Alan Carr and Ashley Banjo.

9.30 Kitty Flanagan: Smashing. (MA15+ls, R) A stand-up performance by Australian comedian and writer Kitty Flanagan tackling a host of topics, from sex to algorithms, Cirque du Soleil, football players and harbour porpoises.

11.30 The Project. (R) Hamish Macdonald, Georgie Tunny, Michael Hing and Julie Goodwin take a look at the day’s news.

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Late-night talk show. 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Billy The Exterminator. 4.00 Scrap Kings. 5.00 Demolition NZ. 5.30 American Restoration. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 MOVIE: Salt. (2010, M) 9.35 MOVIE: Anna. (2019, MA15+) 12.05am Late Programs. 6am The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. 7.00 NBL Slam. 7.30 Seinfeld. 9.00 Becker. 10.00 The Middle. 11.30 The King Of Queens. 12.30pm Frasier. 1.30 Seinfeld. 3.00

9LIFE (84)

6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Strait To The Plate. Noon Sing About This Country. 2.00 Shortland St. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Bushwhacked! 3.25 Red Dirt Riders. 3.40 Wolf Joe. 3.55 Tales Of The Moana. 4.00 Thalu. 4.30 Spartakus And The Sun Beneath The Sea.

5.00

$12 FOR A LETTUCE, ‘UN-AUSTRALIAN’

Following the launch of the annual summer Australian Lamb ad, Aussie Lamb is back to challenge the term “Un-Australian” and remind the world that it’s all our differences, along with our delicious lamb, that unites us.

Research conducted by Australian Lamb found that almost half (45%) of Aussies have been called out for an “UnAustralian” act, while over half (52%) have used the term to describe someone or something. It seems it is most popular amongst Millennials,

with the majority (60%) having called someone or something “UnAustralian” or been called it themselves (59%).

Unsurprisingly perhaps, the rise in living costs over the last 12 months have dominated the list of the most “Un-Australian” things to have happened in 2022. However, aside from the lettuce hitting the headlines, it’s the $34 watermelon causing the most uproar (55%), above both rising rent / property prices (36%) and rising interest rates (32%).

Now though, it seems

that these call outs have gone too far. More than half (53%) of Australians believe that the term “UnAustralian” has become so overused in 2022 – it’s hard to know what is or isn’t Australian anymore. Interestingly, more men than women (61% versus 46%) believe this to be the case.

The latest advert from Australian Lamb imagines an alternate reality which sees people being called out for being “UnAustralian” before being banished to “Un-Australia” – an infnite cultural exile.

In the lifeless desert, we meet Aussies who’ve committed offences from switching off the test cricket, eating a meat pie with a knife and fork, to not knowing the second verse to Khe Sanh.

When Lambassador Sam Kekovich appears in a cloud of smoke, alongside a sizzling BBQ and perfectly searing lamb, it’s clear all this “UnAustralian” accusing has gone too far.

Graeme Yardy, Domestic Market Manager at MLA says: “The use of “Un-Australian” has got

out of control, everything from how you eat your pie to having a wedding on Grand Final day is on the chopping block. Chances are you’ll be viewed as “Un-Australian” by someone! What makes Australia great is that we celebrate our differences.

Lamb is famous for bringing Aussies together, so what better way to cut through this division and help us come together over these collective differences than with a good lamb BBQ.”

“As ever, this campaign is topical, tongue in cheek

and positions lamb as the meat of choice to unite us.”

The research confrmed that our national foods and eating habits are also sacred, with a Bunnings with no sausage sizzle (28%), eating a pie with a knife and fork (27%) and toasting fairy bread (24%) all being called out as “Un-Australian”.

You can watch the flm via the Australian Lamb Facebook and YouTube page or view the content and access delicious lamb recipes at www. australianlamb.com.au.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

WEEK ENDING FRIDAY 13 JANUARY

Agents yarded a total of 793 head at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange regular prime sale on Wednesday 11 January. The yarding consisted mainly of young cattle and a small penning of cows. Young cattle were comprised of a good supply of weaners along with several pens of yearlings throughout the sale. Quality was mixed, although there were several pens of well fnished cattle

GRAFTON

HIGHLIGHTS MARKET REPORT 10TH

JANAURY 2023 SUPPLIED

LIVESTOCK & PROPERTY

offered and also some supplementary fed yearlings. Not all of the usual buyers operated this week, resulting in a signifcantly cheaper market.

Cow prices saw a drop from last year averaging 262c/kg and reaching a top price of 294c/kg. Lighter heifer prices were easier with those up to 250kg averaging 395c/kg and topping their category at 490c/kg. Heavier heifers over 250kg were stronger averaging 408c/kg and reaching a top of 458c/kg.

Bull prices remained steady with 19 head sold

BY DONOVAN

There were 109 head yarded at Grafton Fat Cattle Sale 10th January 2023.

A very small sale in Grafton this week to kick off 2023. There was almost as many spectators in the crowd than there were cattle, with many producers sitting on the fence

WARWICK

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

The New Year opened the selling season with a larger number of stocks for the frst sale. The agents and vendors combined to present 2855 head for the opening sale.

The yarding was dominated with runs of ram lambs and lighter feed on lambs. The stock was drawn from the local and Southwest as well as New England. Lambs topped at $192 to average $142.63(par), hoggets topped at $140 to average $89.33($10down), ewes topped at $142 to average $67.47($3down), wethers topped at $120 to average $100.45($53up), rams topped at $112 to average $91.68($35up), lamb rams topped at $130 to average $68.30($16up), ewe labs topped at $160 to average

WARWICK

OPENING LIVESTOCK MARKETS FOR 2023 MC DOUGALL & SONS

Agents saw the New year in with mixed results, cattle saw numbers yarded in the low periods with only 326 head meeting the market. Opening sales are always a conundrum with most vendors looking for a wait and see approach to the selling season. As this time of the year is still regarded as a holiday time it will always be up or down. Most processors try to achieve their maintenance schedules at this time of the year, which can lead to ups and downs in a lot of categories.

Vealer steers averaged 408c/kg topping at 519.2c/kg or $871.69 to $1633.95

Vealer heifers averaged 450.1c/kg topping at 528.2c/ kg or $1176.17 to $1761.94

to see what the market does. The market was in line with many selling centres across the State which saw limited processor activity and restockers very subdued in bidding, the low numbers also being a factor in the downward trend. The majority of the yarding was Cows and heavy Bulls, while the quality of the young cattle was mostly plain.

Sale Highlights include:

A/c L & K Hebblewhite sold an Angus Cross Bullock 330c/kg averaged 695kg - $2,293.50

A/c Merve Cox sold an Angus Cross Cow 273.2c/kg weighed 590kg - $1,611.88

A/c Baryulgil Pastoral Co. sold Brahman/Hereford Cows

$131.47($41down). The total yarding of 2855 head was $0.56c dearer than the last sale of 2022

Bushy & Sugary P/L sold Dorper trade lambs 46.4kg and 40.3kg to Shelley F/T for $142 and $123 Gooroo Grazing sold Dorper x lambs 63.5kg and 58.1kg to Thomas Foods for $190, 52.75kg to Leslie Lamb for $186

Robinson & Elder sold Dorper x lambs 50.3kg to Eversons for $165 and 57.85kg hoggets to Grants Quality Meats for $105

Neville Darr sold Xbred lambs off feed 50.5kg to Eversons for $175

Leon Willis sold Xbred lambs 57kg to Eversons for $180, 47kg to Leslie Lamb for $160, 52.1kg hoggets to Eversons

Feeder steers averaged 386.5c/kg topping at 440c/kg or $1642.76 to $1949.22

Feeder heifers averaged 365.5c/kg topping at 448.2c/kg or $1234.25 to $1635.93

Yearling steers averaged 406.3c/kg topping at 492.2c/kg or $1431.58 to $2026.56

Yearling heifers averaged 391.8c/kg topping at 468.2c/kg or $1270.98 to $1792.24

Heifers averaged 297.6c/kg topping at 340.2c/kg or $1423.58 to $2063.02

Cows averaged 228.7c/kg topping at 289.2c/kg o $ 1178.84 to $1855.92

Bulls averaged 357.2c/kg topping at 410.2c/kg or $1136.59 to $1462.50

Lambs topped at $192 to average $142.63 $1 down Hoggets topped at $140 to average $89.33 a drop of $10/head

Ewes topped at $142 to average $67.47 a drop of $3/ head

averaging 268c/kg and 531kg. Steer prices saw a drop with lighter stock up to 250kg averaging 437c/ kg and reaching a top of 552c/kg. Heavier steers over 250kg averaged 421c/kg and topped their market at 486c/kg. A small number of bullocks sold on the day averaged 291c/kg and reached a top of 300c/kg.

As with most other categories, vealer prices were softer averaging 422c/kg and 235kg and reaching a top of 548c/kg.

Ray White Rural will hold a store sale this Friday 20 January. Further bookings are welcome.

269.2c/kg averaged 552.5kg - $1,487.33 p/hd

A/c LR & VB Franey sold a Brangus Cow 273.2c/kg averaged 560kg - $1,529.92

A/c Blackadder Brangus sold an Angus Cross Cow 270c/ kg weighed 610kg - $1,647.00

A/c Tony McLennan sold a Santa Gertrudis Bull 265c/kg weighed 990kg - $2,623.50

A/c NSW DPI sold an Angus Bull 260c/kg weighed 1020kg - $2,652.00

A/c LR & VB Franey sold Angus Cross Heifers 450c/kg averaged 240kg - $1,080.00 p/hd

for $100

Martin Roberts sold Xbred lambs off crop 49.5kg to Eversons for $180, 46.6kg to Thomas Foods for $171, 40kg to GR Prime for $110, 39.7kg to GR Prime for $100,45.3kg Dorper x to GR Prime for $100

John Knaggs sold Dorper ewes in lamb to Bellvue rams for $142 to restockers

Brett Goselin sold 47kg Dorper x lambs to Thomas Foods for $140, 57.5kg hoggets to Eversons for $90, 4th wethers to restockers for $120

Mody Grazing Co sold Merino wethers to Eversons for $10949kg Merino stags to restockers for $50 and $36, 49kg hoggets to Eversons for $48

Aaron & Candice Learoyd sold Dorper x lambs 19.6kg to restockers for $38

Wethers topped at $120 to average $100.45 a jump of $53/head

Rams topped at $112 to average $91.68 a jump of $35/head

Ewe lambs topped at $160 to average $131.47 a drop of $41/head

Ram lambs topped at $130 to average $68.30 up $16/head

The total sale average of $120.82 was $0.48/head dearer than last sale of 2022

Sows sold from $107 to $302, Gilts to $178, Boars to $200, Pork $156 to $186, Stores from $64 to $170 Roosters sold to $20, Hens to $22.50, Pullets sold to $20, Ducks sold to $12.50, Ducklings sold to $12.50, Quail sold to $12.50, Guinea fowl sold to $17.50.

Wishing all the readers a safe Happy start to the New Year from all of us at Mc Dougall & Sons.

FARMERS SUPPORT CARBON CREDIT REVIEW FINDINGS

Farmers for Climate Action welcomes the release of the Chubb Review into Australia’s carbon credit scheme, and calls on the Federal Government to implement all of its recommendations, but notes the fnal report does not properly address the fundamental issue of the integrity of existing carbon credits.

The Chubb review came about after whistleblower Professor Andrew Macintosh from Australian National University resigned from the Emissions Reduction Assurance Committee, and pointed out problems with several of the methods producing carbon credits.

Professor Macintosh was subsequently backed by major carbon credit players making up around half of Australia’s carbon credits.

The review has recommended major overhauls to the system, but does not acknowledge any problem with current credits.

Farmers for Climate Action Strategy Director, Cambell Klose, said Australia’s farmers relied on the integrity of Australia’s carbon credits to maintain the value of, and income from, their investments into growing carbon crops.

“Farmers for Climate Action welcomes recommendations made by the Chubb Review to end the multiple conficting roles of the Clean Energy Regulator, give new life to the integrity committee, and to end new projects claiming carbon credits under avoided deforestation.

“The review puts forward sensible recommendations which

are a step forward in fxing the problems, yet fail to acknowledge any problems.

“It is contradictory to offer solutions without acknowledging the problem. This review skates over the idea that there are any issues with the current market.

Australian farmers who have invested in growing carbon crops are the ones who pay the price when integrity issues with carbon credits are revealed because it reduces confdence in the market and the price paid for carbon credits.”

“We also encourage governments to remember that offsets can only be a small part of Australia’s emissions reduction. Stopping emissions at the source is the most effective way to stop emissions.

“We support the Federal Government’s announcement that

it will adopt the recommendations from the review.”

BACKGROUND:

• The review into Australia’s carbon credit scheme, the Chubb Review, was commissioned by the Federal Government in September 2022 after concerns were raised about the integrity of the scheme.

• Concerns were raised by companies making up a signifcant portion of Australia’s carbon credit, who revealed they too had issues with the integrity of ACCUs. (ACCU: Australian Carbon Credit Units issued to farmers or businesses who are reducing emissions with one ACCU for every tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent stored or avoided.)

WEEKLY AUSTRALIAN CLIMATE, WATER AND AGRICULTURAL UPDATE

• For the week ending 11 January 2023, tropical cyclone activity and seasonal thunderstorms brought widespread rainfall across most of northern Australia. In Australian cropping regions, rainfall totals of between 15 and 50 millimetres were recorded across much of northern and central Queensland. Little to no rainfall was recorded in remaining cropping regions for the week ending 11 January 2023. The persistence of dry conditions across cropping regions of Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia would have continued to support the harvesting of winter crops.

• December 2022 rainfall was 33% above average for Australia as a whole but below average to average across cropping regions of Australia. Below average to average rainfall in December benefted the harvesting of winter crops across Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia, while average rainfall still allowed harvest activities to recommence across New South Wales, following severe disruptions in November due to heavy rainfall.

• Across much of New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and parts of Western Australia above average to extremely high pasture growth will likely enable farmers to continue rebuilding stock numbers and provide opportunities to replenish fodder supplies during late spring or early summer.

• La Niña under way in the tropical Pacifc is slowly weakening and

expected to dissipate by February. The active Madden-Julian Oscillation in the western Pacifc Ocean is expected to move into the Atlantic in the coming days and remain there for the next two weeks, increasing the monsoon activities across the Australian region. Those climate drivers will bring above average rainfall across northern and eastern Australia and below average rainfall for western Tasmania during summer.

• The rainfall outlook for February to April 2023 suggests most of the country has close to equal chance of above or below median rainfall. Root zone soil moisture levels across both northern and southern cropping regions are above average. Therefore, close to average rainfall during this period is unlikely to negatively impact summer crops growth and yield prospects.

• Over the 8-days to 19 January 2023, widespread rainfall is expected across most of northern Australia. However, little to no rainfall is forecast across most of Australian cropping regions. The continuation of dry conditions will likely further allow saturated soil to drain, however, a fooding risk remains for some areas. Little to no rainfall forecast across most cropping regions is likely to provide favourable conditions for crop harvesting and summer crop planting.

Farmers for Climate Action welcomes many aspects of Safeguard Mechanism changes proposed today by Climate Change Minister, Chris Bowen, but has concerns about unlimited credits and land use.

“Reducing the baseline emissions of companies

covered by the safeguard mechanism by 4.9% a year to 2030 is a positive step and delivers on the spirit of what the Government promised in the election campaign,” FCA Strategy Director, Cambell Klose said.

“However, allowing companies to use unlimited carbon credits

to ‘offset’ their emissions fails to reduce carbon emissions, and could see a perverse outcome of carbon crops taking over too much food producing land if the price of carbon credits rises steeply.

“This is compounded by the fact the Chubb Review into Australia’s

carbon credits skated over serious concerns about the integrity of some of Australia’s carbon credits.

“The climate won’t be helped by creating fimsy carbon reductions which aren’t worth the paper they’re written on.

“A limit on the amount of carbon credits each

company can use to ‘offset’ emissions, which is focussed only on hard to abate sectors, would be a sensible step towards genuine emissions reduction. The best place to stop emissions is at the source.

“We need to stop digging up and burning

fossil fuels and focus on a rapid and orderly change to a renewable energy energy power grid, as well as investing in the electrifcation of industry as quickly as possible.”

Farmers for Climate Action is a movement of 7500 farmers calling for strong climate policies.

FARMERS CONCERNED RELIANCE ON OFFSETS COULD ERODE INTEGRITY OF SAFEGUARD MECHANISM AND AUSTRALIA’S NET ZERO COMMITMENT

MARGARET ROLLINGS STORY

coninued from ED131 (05/01/2023)

PROMULGATION INDONESIAN LINGUIST

Interested in entering the world of Intelligence? The Navy is looking for motivated people to work in this highly classifed environment providing intelligence support for the Navy, Army, and Air force.

I had the choice of remaining as a WRAN Radio Operator working in the Morse Code Section or applying for the

position advertised entailing a full-time year- long Indonesian language course at the RAAF Point Cook School of languages with immediate promotion to Leading WRAN and upon graduation promotion to Petty Offcer…

But wait, there is

more…. a guaranteed posting to serve in Singapore for a year as an Interpreter/ Translator upon completion of the course.

WHICH ONE DID I CHOSE? I think you’ve guessed!

The RAAF School of languages, Point Cook was no ordinary language school; it was a military language school and back then regarded as a world leader in the delivery of Asian languages, given the Vietnam War and Indonesia/Malaysia confrontation, as well as European languages, with the frst language on offer being Japanese in July 1944, towards

the end of the Second World War. The motto was Festina Lente translating to Make haste slowly, which we found amusing.

Language acquisition is extremely demanding and requires intense focus. However, thanks to the up-to date teaching methodology of our dedicated instructors and their access to state-ofthe-art materials and resources, all 19-armed forces and civilian participants graduated with fying colors. I was left with a passion for everything Indonesian, their language, culture, traditions and of course the food. This passion in later years has extended to many

other Southeast Asian Countries, such as Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Timor-Leste plus the countries of the great Subcontinent, India and Pakistan, and of course more recently China.

History has a habit of repeating itself. Both John, (who was in the RAF when I met him) and his late father Arthur (posted to Singapore during The Second World War) met their brides in Singapore. John’s parents married in Singapore; however, it was not until I was discharged from the Navy, that I headed to London to marry John in 1969. Following a quick trip home to Kyogle, my discharge papers demanded this,

in awe, the intricate routines performed by the famous Lipizzaner Stallions and the superb horsemanship at the Spanish Riding School.

London in the late 60s was still the Swinging Sixties, everything I expected it to be. Rock legend, Elton John was

to the new rock music genre, heavy metal, which ranged from aggressive singing to unintelligible screaming as they belted out fans’ favorites such as ‘Whole Lotta Love’ and ‘Stairway to Heaven’. Of course, John and I spent many

it was back on the plane once again bound for London via Bahrain and Vienna where I watched

outrageous, his concert was a blinder! Led Zeppelin on the other hand introduced me

busy days exploring must-see attractions, such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar

Many years later in 2017 at the Jerez de la Frontera Horse Fair, Andalusia, Spain

On behalf of the RAN, commemorating ANZAC Day in Singapore in, 1969

Joanne and Sandy, London, 2019

Wedding day, Muswell Hill, London, 1969

Square, Westminster, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace and many more. Australia’s sociocultural ties with the ‘mother country’ were still very strong and at school we had learnt about the strength and heroism of this grand British Empire as well as glorious victories in hard-fought battles. It

route to the school on many an ice-cold morning, was forced to wait at the entrance to the runway. I was fascinated by the trainee pilots at the helm of a Windjeel (three-seater training aircraft), performing their take offs and landing practice, amusing ourselves by allocating them a score

movies as Pride and Prejudice and The Da Vinci Code. This time I was to be fascinated again by take offs and landings of a different kind, that is, vertical. No. 1 Squadron was the frst in the world to receive the nimble Harrier Jump Jet, sometimes described as a beagle on steroids, unlike the sluggish training aircraft, the Windjeel, which was more of a fying tank. It was 1970 and ten years had passed since leaving home

Burghley Horse Trials and British Equestrian Team Manager at the 1964 Olympic Games. What a memorable experience; being introduced to The Royals, Princess Anne, and Mark Phillips at the veterinary inspection prior to the commencement of The Burghley Horse Trials Three Day Event in 1971. And just to add a little more color to the occasion it was touching to see a much younger Queen award her only daughter,

I should be.” I was ecstatic! For me it was returning to my roots. For John, a huge career change; from an aircraft engineer to a dairy farmer!

Prior to our arrival

coincidently, one property to the south east of “South Plains”. The property was complete with a classic, 1900’s Federation style home making it a step back to yesteryear. We

is a mere coincidence that our son Sandy lives in London with his beautiful partner, Jo, where I frst hit the shores in my early twenties.

My knowledge of aircraft was nil. Except in 1965, when at RAAF Point Cook School of Languages and, en

out or ten.

With John’s recent return from Singapore and a newlywed he was posted to No. 1 Squadron, RAF Wittering, near the delightful, mediaeval market town of Stamford, well known as a frequent flming location for such

and subsequently, the horse world beckoned. I found myself working as stud groom on a Connemara Pony Stud for Mrs. Grose, the very gracious and considerate wife of Brigadier James Grose, Director of the world-famous

Princess Anne, the gold medal in the prestigious European Three-Day Eventing Championship riding the magnifcent Thoroughbred cross gelding, Doublet, a gift to Anne from her mother.

Moving along to 1973. “I’m back where

in Kyogle and on Dad’s suggestion, we purchased the most delightful property on a bend in the Richmond, hence the name ‘River Bend’ (currently owned and lovingly restored by Adam and Lindee-Anne Flack), which was situated,

immediately opened the dairy, started sending cream and producing beef and pork as well. To say John ‘hit the ground running’ was an understatement.

Continued in the next edition of The Northern Rivers Times.

Margaret in the 1960sManifold’s name and the pony’s colour, chestnut.

Our charming, 1900s Federation style at ‘Riverbend’

In Darwin playing hockey for the Armed Forces Team, 1966.

THE Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) will be seeking expressions of interest from agencies looking to provide services at the stateof-the-art facility following decisions made at Council’s 20 December meeting.

NRLX Operations Manager Brad Willis is pleased Council last night endorsed the 2022 NRLX Business Plan, which aims to position the NRLX as a fnancially sustainable, modern livestock exchange and a leader in best practice saleyard operations.

The expressions of interest (EOI) process will be for a three-year Agent Licence Agreement, which sets the scope of requirements for livestock agencies seeking to operate from the facility.

Mr Willis said the EOI allowed for an impartial, open, and competitive process aimed at refning the businesses which have the beneft of utilising community assets for commercial and fnancial beneft.

He said it was critical Council ensured a competitive marketplace was provided as the community was compelled to utilise the services of an incumbent agent when they chose to sell through NRLX.

“Expressions of interest for agents’ licences will ensure Richmond Valley ratepayers can have confdence the best businesses in the marketplace have been selected to operate from the NRLX,” Mr Willis said.

“Agencies to date have done an excellent job along those lines and future agencies

will need to demonstrate a commitment to the facility, customer service, and the values and behaviours commensurate with the NRLX’s status as one of the leading livestock selling centres in the country.”

Mr Willis said obtaining value for money for vendors was enhanced when there was open competition and the market was tested.

He said an increase in agents meant more opportunities for primary producers and local businesses.

“The message is clear here: We are open for business, we are willing to continue to grow the business, expand our footprint and we are ready to support more farmers across northern NSW to achieve top dollar for their stock,” Mr Willis said.

Council’s General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said it was vital for the NRLX’s future sustainability that the producer continued to pay their fair share towards the facility, and vendor fees remained competitive in the marketplace.

Mr Macdonald said vendors historically contributed most of the fees to the NRLX business and Council had been implementing an incremental realignment of the cost sharing between vendors and agents from the previous model since the completion of the $15 million upgrade.

He said since the introduction of stock pricebased vendor charges in 2020, there had not been an increase to vendor sale fees, and with

Council’s decision to fx for a further three years it was a signifcant acknowledgement and support of the beef industry.

“In solidifying our offer for producers, the 2023-2024 NRLX Revenue Policy shows no change in core vendor sale fees and these fees will remain fxed to June 2026,” Mr Macdonald said.

“This will mean there have been no vendor sale fee changes in six years.”

The Business Plan also proposes changes to the operational processes at the NRLX, with a key priority to vertically integrate operations and services for the long-term viability and success of the business.

Mr Willis said streamlined information, knowledge, communication, and strengthened biosecurity and animal welfare measures would provide signifcant improvements to services, compliance, effciency, and sustainability.

He said the plan highlighted current operational challenges, inadequacies of services and demonstrated the benefts and capacity Council had as an organisation to further advance the business for the beneft of the Richmond Valley agricultural sector.

“The plan includes strategies and actions to pursue growth, such as driving momentum in current successful areas of the business on the one hand, while pursuing untapped opportunities on the other,” Mr Willis said.

Another exciting

development is the introduction of an NRLX Scholarship Program to enhance the future of agriculture in the Richmond Valley with an aim to commence students in January 2024.

“To build a strong pipeline for talent and reinvest in our agriculture community, we will be offering agricultural scholarships to fnd candidates who want to build a successful career in the agriculture sector, particularly in the beef sector, with great growth opportunities,” Mr Willis said.

The key priorities within the Business Plan are:

A review of Agent Licence Agreements and the transition to a modern licence agreement with an increased focus on behaviours and values, WHS, biosecurity, transport chain of responsibility, branding, and marketing. The licence agreement will also form the contractual agreement for the supply of services which will occur with the change of operational processes.

NRLX Agent Licence Agreement expressions of interest procurement process as an open and transparent market test to reduce limitations and remove entry barriers to the marketplace. A target to have seven agencies undertaking livestock sales at NRLX from 1 July 2023.

The introduction of an NRLX Scholarship Program to enhance the future of agriculture in the Richmond Valley with an aim to commence students in January 2024.

Recruitment and implementation of an NRLX livestock team, including a dedicated Livestock Coordinator and a defned and appointed Animal Welfare Offcer as is now required.

Mr Macdonald said these changes were in the overall interests of future NRLX operations, site users and Richmond Valley ratepayers.

He said it was critical the NRLX remained competitive and fnancially sustainable into the future.

“The NRLX is already a signifcant contributor to the region’s agricultural economy and we need to capitalise on opportunities to further grow its economic output,“ Mr Macdonald said.

The 2023-2024 Draft

NRLX Revenue Policy will be on public exhibition until 4pm, Tuesday 28 February. Any person may make a written submission during the exhibition period by sending it to Richmond Valley Council by: Post – Locked Bag 10 Casino NSW 2470 Email – council@ richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au Hand delivery – at either of Council’s Customer Service Centres in Casino and Evans Head Online submission –by completing an online submission form via Council’s website

For more information contact NRLX Operations Manager Brad Willis on 0408 203 654.

Comprising:

Cows & Calves

180x180 Angus heifers & calves

40x40 Angus Shorthorn heifers & calves

30x30 Angus Hereford X cows & calves

30x30 Brangus heifers & calves 20x20 Roan Red Shorthorn X heifers & calves

10x10 Santa Hereford X heifers & calves

10x10 Brangus Hereford heifers & calves 30x30 Charbray heifers & calves Heifers PTIC To Angus Bulls 100 Angus heifers 50 Angus Hereford X heifers 90 Santa Hereford heifers 60 Brangus & Hereford Brangus X heifers 70 F1 Hereford Brahman X heifers 30 Simbrah heifers 12 Speckle Park X heifers 10 Charbray heifers Unjoined Heifers 50 Angus unjoined heifers 25 Brangus unjoined heifers 25 Brahman X unjoined heifers

Agents Comment:

This years draft of heifers have been selected to provide the breeder not only the best genetics but also for their milking performance.

This top quality draft will see around 300 calves on the ground by top quality sires. This sale provides the opportunity to secure top quality heifers that will provide more performance and more returns for your future beef operations.

SEEDY CONCEALMENT IN SHOES FOILED BY BIOSECURITY STAFF

An attempt to sneak high-risk seeds into Australia in the heels of running shoes, has been foiled by biosecurity offcers conducting routine parcel checks at a facility that handles international mail and imported air cargo in Brisbane.

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Deputy Secretary of Biosecurity and Compliance Dr Chris Locke said bags of pumpkin (cucurbita sp.) and nightshade seeds (solanaceae) were concealed in a pair of sneakers mailed from Burundi in east-central Africa.

“Both seed types did not meet import conditions and are known to harbour diseases including

melon necrotic spot virus (MNSV) and tobamoviruses, which if spread into the community could cause widespread devastation to many of Australia’s vegetable crops,” Dr Locke said.

“Some people don’t seem to understand the consequences of infected

plants and plant material, including seeds, being illegally sent through the mail. MNSV and tobamoviruses put at risk many valuable vegetable crops including melons, squash, tomatoes, potatoes, and capsicum,” Dr Locke said.

The parcel had been mislabelled as containing

The next step in making Australia a more disaster resilient nation will be made as applications open for the Albanese Government’s signature Disaster Ready Fund (DRF).

After years of intense rain and devastating fooding this program will deliver on the Government’s election commitment to ensure Australia is better prepared for future natural disasters.

Up to $200 million is available next fnancial year to state and territory governments,

in partnership with councils, for projects to support communities to reduce risks and better prepare for future foods, cyclones, bushfres, storm surges and other natural disasters.

Projects may include infrastructure like food levees, drainage improvements, fre breaks and evacuation centres to help reduce the vulnerability of communities facing high levels of disaster risk, or initiatives that improve collection and sharing of data, improve land use planning or strengthen

community capabilities.

It’s part of a longterm commitment to making Australia more resilient in the face of growing natural hazards, investing up to $1 billion over the next fve years.

Emergency Management Minister, Murray Watt said opening applications was an important milestone in improving Australia’s disaster resilience.

“Australians have had a really tough couple of years with foods, fres, cyclones and more

new shoes, a leather jacket and a denim outft for a child.

The shoes immediately drew the attention of the inspecting biosecurity offcer because they were dirty and not new as declared.

The offcer found a hole in both heels of the shoes. He carefully

inspected the cavities to discover the poorly wrapped seeds.

The seeds were identifed by a DAFF botanist and the concealment confrmed with a new, oversized X-ray, supplied to DAFF by the Australian Border Force (ABF). Oversized X-Rays are used to

impacting our country,” Minister Watt said.

“We know that these natural disasters will only increase in intensity and frequency due to climate change.

“That’s why before the election we committed to overhaul Scott Morrison’s failed $4.8 billion Emergency Response Fund, which didn’t build a single disaster mitigation project in three years.

“We’ll now put this money to work, to protect Australians’ lives, their properties, and to save taxpayers

Saleyards and processors in the sheep and farmed goat industries now have access to grants from the NSW Government to prepare for the implementation of mandatory electronic identifcation.

Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said the funding would allow saleyards and processors to start planning for the rollout of the system in NSW from 1 January 2025.

“The NSW Government knows implementing electronic identifcation within the sheep and farmed goat industry is a big change, one we have worked with industry on from the

start,” Mr Saunders said.

“We want saleyards and processors to start their planning and design of infrastructure and any essential modifcations associated with their business.

“Grants between $5,000 and $15,000 will be available for these businesses to commence planning for essential modifcations and the critical infrastructure required.”

Mandatory electronic identifcation for sheep and goats will play a crucial role in responding quickly and effectively to incursions like Foot and Mouth Disease.

In addition, the use of electronic identifcation

will provide the ability to improve on-farm monitoring and management and decision making, leading to improved productivity and market access opportunities.

“We want to protect and keep building our $1.5 billion sheep and goat industries – that’s why the NSW Government is providing this initial fnancial support to help businesses prepare,” Mr Saunders said.

“We also are continuing to work with the Commonwealth Government to fnalise a cost sharing model to support the broader roll out of the mandatory electronic identifcation

for sheep and goat producers in NSW.”

Saleyards and processors will be contacted directly by NSW Department of Primary Industries in the new year to inform them of the grants application process.

Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association CEO Peter Baldwin welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement.

“As the National peak body representing livestock agents across NSW, we know that the implementation of mandatory sheep and goat electronic identifcation is a huge piece of work and will

some of the huge repair costs that are incurred after every natural disaster.

“The Albanese Government understands that by investing in ongoing disaster mitigation, we can proactively deliver meaningful projects that curb the devastating impacts of foods, fres and other types of disasters, rather than just react to events.

“This is an unprecedented opportunity for all state and territory governments to take

screen larger packages, so we have the capability to screen small to large parcels arriving into the country.

Arriving via the DHL Express centre, any mail containing imported goods below $1000 can be inspected under SelfAssess-Consignment (SAC) processes, making it subject to DAFF and ABF scrutiny.

MNSV was detected in watermelons and rockmelons in isolated outbreaks in NSW (2012), Victoria (2016) and Queensland (2018), causing whole crops to be destroyed.

Tobamovirus can infect some weed species including prostrate pigweed and creeping cucumber and is detrimental to the farming sector.

positive steps to safeguard essential infrastructure, communities, and industry.

“We expect them to work with local Councils and community groups when putting forward ideas for projects.”

State, territory and local governments will be expected to match funding under the DRF, where possible, and will be able to submit project proposals for funding until March 6, 2023.

take support from the government to ensure it is rolled out in the

best, most seamless way possible,” Mr Baldwin said.

FULL-SIZE

By CHRIS RILEY

Ford continues to spruik the virtues of its ‘fullsize’ utility cum pick-up F-150 due around the middle of next year.

But you have to wonder whether Australia needs another hulking American pickup on its roads, indeed whether it would be better off without any of its ilk?

GMC’s Silverado and the Ram range of full-

power and 678Nm of torque.

This could be more about keeping a lid on the price which will be well in excess of $100,000 anyway.

F-150 will be offered in fve-seat Crew Cab form and is able to tow a 4500kg braked trailer. And while it is happy to tell you how popular this model is and how much power and torque the engine produces, it has not revealed how

most capable, full-size pick-ups available in Australia.

F-150 will be offered in XLT and Lariat grades with the top-selling 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, 10-speed automatic transmission and fourwheel drive.

Both versions will be available in SWB (3683mm wheelbase, 1676mm load box) and LWB (3988mm wheelbase,

NEW VARIANT FOR MAZDA BT-50

Mazda BT-50 LE

By CHRIS RILEY

Mazda Australia has added a new variant to its popular BT-50 utility range with some styling changes, greater functionality and

bar fully completes the tough yet elegant exterior.

These items are in addition to the already very good equipment list ftted as standard, which includes dual-

specifying the same accessories separately.

Mazda Australia Managing Director, Vinesh Bhindi, said: “One of the many strings to the Mazda

size trucks are already here and have been for some time.

In fact, the F-150 itself is already, privately imported and converted to right-hand drive by Victoria’s Harrison F-Trucks as well as Queensland-based Performax International.

Performax incidentally is the largest importer of American vehicles in this country.

These large vehicles take up a lot of real estate and use quite a bit of fuel, but Ford is not offering the electric (Lightning) or hybrid versions of the F-150.

It’s going with the tried-and-true EcoBoost twin turbo 3.5-litre petrol V6 which delivers 298kW of

much fuel it uses.

Figures suggest it should be around 11.8 litres per 100km -- and that’s on a good day.

Australia is predominantly a diesel market for utes and SUVs and buyers generally want nothing to do with petrol engines.

But more than 8000 Australians have registered an interest in the F-150, with thousands of prospective orders already placed with dealers.

Ford says more US customers choose the EcoBoost V6 than any other F-150 engine and this powertrain will make F-150 one of the most powerful, and

1981mm load box) confgurations.

Durability tests in Australia have seen F-150 clock up more than 135,000km, the equivalent of lapping Australia nine times.

Some of the world’s most punishing roads were also replicated in the laboratory at Ford Australia’s You Yangs Proving Ground with F-150’s driveline, steering, wheels and suspension punished on a Kinematic and Compliance (K&C) rig. Overseas it has also been put through its paces hundreds of times on Ford’s torturous Silver Creek Road durability track in Arizona.

attractive pricing.

The new BT-50 LE is based mid-spec and comes with a single hooped polished alloy bull bar, polished sports bar and a heavy-duty tub liner.

There is local input with the bull bar engineered here to integrate fully with the safety systems of the vehicle, ensuring crumple zones, airbag and assistance systems are unhindered.

Manufactured from high-quality stainless steel and featuring an integrated brake light, the polished sports

zone climate control, satellite navigation, advanced keyless entry, reverse camera and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility.

All versions of the Mazda BT-50 LE will be offered as a DualCab Pickup 4x4 with a 3.0L turbo-diesel engine paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission, fnished in the attractive Ingot Silver Metallic paint hue.

Priced from $64,295 before on-roads, the Mazda BT-50 LE represents a $2500 saving for customers overall compared to

BT-50’s bow is the sheer breadth of customisation options available through the Mazda Genuine Accessories program, all of which come with a fve-year warranty when ftted at delivery.

“With the new Mazda BT-50 LE, we’re offering the best of both worlds – an enhanced and individual look, combined with even more added versatility.”

Orders for the new Mazda BT-50 LE are being taken now for delivery in February 2023.

FORD EVEREST SPORT V6

By EWAN KENNEDY

Ford recently updated its Everest with improvements to safety and comfort, so it was a good opportunity to carry out another road test and see what this popular model is like now.

There are four variants: Ambiente, Trend, Sport, and Platinum. The frst two come with the choice of rear- or fourwheel drive the other two are RWD only.

Our test vehicle was the Everest Sport with four-wheel drive. It has a recommend retail price of $69,090, to which on-road costs have to be added.

STYLING

Everest is a great looking SUV with a frontal appearance that certainly leaves no doubt this is a tough vehicle aimed at owners who want to make a statement that they are serious about what they’re driving.

The large black grille has a chrome-look horizontal centre that extends almost the full width of the vehicle. Outside of the grille are high-tech-look headlights and squared-off daytime running lights.

There are indents in the doors that probably add to the strength but are also there to add style. Wheelarches are rounded in traditional 4WD fashion. The neat rear has a lip spoiler that probably helps keep rain off it but it also suits the styling.

INTERIOR

This Everest is equally large inside. The front seats are wide and comfortable to provide good support during moderately hard cornering, thought obviously it’s not a sporty vehicle. The middle row seats can carry three but there’s a

sensible emphasis on the two outer rears being set up for comfort for two.

The foor is almost fat in the second row which adds to the comfort factor.

The rearmost pair of seats aren’t easy to get into and out of for adults but are fne for kids.

And the kids will love to travel there to be as far from mum and dad as possible…

INFOTAINMENT

The Everest Sport we tested had a 12-inch infotainment display, which is larger than the 10-inch on the lower specced models. It has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Ford’s new SYNC 4 architecture has a lot of features and functionality and is easy to use.

There’s a wireless charging pad, digital radio and FordPass connectivity that lets you use remote start, location services and locking/ unlocking.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

The Everest Sport we tested was powered by a 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel that develops up to 184 kilowatts of power, and a very strong 600Nm of torque.

Everest is offered with

two drivetrain options: a 4x2 driving the rear wheels is only available on the 2.0-litre Ambiente and Trend variants.

The 4×4 is offered across the complete range and has an

advanced full-time four-wheel drive system that uses an electronically controlled on-demand two-speed electromechanical transfer case with selectable drive modes.

Everest’s e-Shifter has optimised performance for different surfaces, road conditions and vehicle usage.

There are four On-Road Drive Modes (Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul and Slippery) and two Off-Road Drive Modes (Sand and Mud/Ruts).

SAFETY

Ford Everest has a 2022 fve-star ANCAP safety rating. Standard features in the Trend include seven airbags, including driver’s knee airbag,

pre-collision assist and pedestrian detection, autonomous emergency braking and traffc sign recognition.

There’s also dynamic stability control with roll stability control, ABS anti-skid brakes with electronic brake force distribution, traction control and emergency brake assist are constantly active when on the move.

Parking is made easy with the use of a rear-view camera, plus audible sensors front and rear.

DRIVING

This is a large vehicle that’s quite easy to drive despite the real estate it offers for carting people. It can take up almost the

full width of traffc lanes on some narrower multilane roads so the driver has to pay attention to keep it from leaving its own lane.

On motorways it’s fne as the roads are wider and the big Ford is in its intended territory, the US of A.

Throttle response is pretty good for the engine type but you do have to think ahead at times.

Handling is good and the steering feels as though it has been set up for those who enjoy driving. We suspect that there’s some Aussie input in this as Ford engineers in this country pass our thoughts and desires back to head offce in the USA.

Rough road surfaces can be quite noisy but on smooth concrete motorways everything becomes very peaceful.

Parking can be a hassle, especially in tight underground carparks where sometimes it will be necessary to go back

and forward to get into some spots

SUMMING UP

Ford Everest is a large 4WD that can be used as a people mover, off-road exploring and everything in between. You get a lot of vehicle for your money and this big Ford certainly deserves a place high on your list of possible buys.

MODEL RANGE

2.0 Ambiente RWD: $52,990 2.0 Ambiente 4WD: $57,990

2.0 Trend RWD: $60,290 2.0 Trend 4WD: $65,290 3.0 Sport 4WD: $69,090 3.0 Platinum 4WD: $76,880

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Ford dealer for drive-away prices.

SPECIFICATIONS

(Ford Everest 3.0-litre turbo-diesel fve-door wagon)

ENGINE:

Capacity: 3.0 litres Confguration: V6

Maximum Power: 184 kW @ 3250rpm

Maximum Torque: 600 Nm from 1750 to 2500rpm

Fuel Type: Diesel Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 8.5 L/100km

CO2 Emissions: 224 g/ km

STANDARD WARRANTY: Five years / unlimited kilometres

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: TBC:

NSW Health is advising the community to be aware of the signs and symptoms of rare but severe, invasive bacterial infections following recent increases in cases.

Executive Director of Health Protection NSW, Dr Richard Broome said there had been increases in both meningococcal disease (IMD) and invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) infections in recent weeks.

Cases of IMD were above average in NSW towards the end of 2022, and cases of iGAS have increased in NSW, in other states, and overseas.

Dr Broome said it was important the community was aware while the infections are very rare, both can be very serious and can cause death or permanent disability.

“In their early stages, invasive bacterial infections including IMD or iGAS sometimes mimic symptoms of viral infections like COVID and in uenza, and can also follow or occur at the same time as a viral infection,” Dr Broome said.

“Rapid intervention and e ective treatment for invasive bacterial infections are available and can be lifesaving. We urge people to pay close attention to symptoms, trust their instincts, and seek urgent medical care if symptoms worsen or if they or the people they care

for appear very unwell.

“While noti cation data on iGAS has only recently become available in NSW, the number of people unwell with the condition has clearly increased here and across the world,” Dr Broome said.

Between September and December of 2022, 137 cases of iGAS were notied in NSW.

ere were 36 cases of meningococcal disease (IMD) reported in NSW in 2022.

Indicators of serious illness include fever, a fast heart rate, cold hands and feet or a mottled look to the skin, di culty waking or increased lethargy or confusion. e person looks unwell and may also have nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain.

Symptoms to look out for in young children that may indicate severe illness include irritability, di culty waking, high-pitched crying, refusal to eat/feed, fewer or no wet nappies or decreased urination, cold or mottled limbs, and di culty breathing.

People with meningococcal disease may experience severe headache, neck sti ness, dislike of bright lights, or unexplained joint or limb pain. A non-blanching rash of red-purple spots or bruises may also

occur but o en presents later in the illness. Do not wait for a rash to occur. iGAS can cause di erent symptoms. As well as the signs of serious illness, they may have muscle aches and pains. If they have a bruise or a skin infection this may become red, warm or very painful, including pain beyond the area that is obviously a ected.

People with iGAS may develop a red, warm, painful, and rapidly spreading skin infection which may have pus or ulceration. Children may present with a sunburn-like rash. e rash and skin changes are not always present so do not wait for a rash to seek care if the person is very unwell.

Lower abdominal pain, bleeding, or bad-smelling discharge from the vagina can be symptoms of serious

infection in women who are pregnant or who have recently given birth.

For more information on iGAS and IMD see the NSW Health website.

Get into the summer vibe with this fruity mocktail featuring red berries, lemonade, mint, and cucumber. Cool and refreshing, it’s fabulous on hot summer days

Summer cup mocktail

STEP 1

INGREDIENTS

TO GARNISH

Chop the cucumber and mint sprig into small pieces. Bring 200ml water to the boil in a small pan and then add the mint and cucumber. Turn o the heat and leave for 2 mins. Add a small handful of frozen berries, let them defrost for a minute, then crush them lightly with the back of a spoon. Strain the mixture. This will keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours and will be enough to make four drinks.

STEP 2

Pour 40ml of your strained mixture into a tall glass. Add a handful of ice and top up with 120ml lemonade. Garnish with whatever chopped fruit you like or some more frozen berries and mint leaves if you have them. Stir gently to combine.

Grape

Expectations by Max Crus Robin Brockett

Bellarine Peninsula Amphora Syrah 2016

$45. Not sure whether ‘twas the slight age or merely the character of the wine but this was a sophisticated contribution to the Xmas table and admired by all. 9.6/10

Mitolo McLaren Vale G.A.M. Shiraz, 2019, $69. G.A.M. is the kids’ names which is often how posh people name their houses, or cavoodles. Lucky the kids weren’t Charles, Rachael, Anthony and Peter. Delicious, posh red wine and cheaper than a Cadoodle. 9.5/10

Cullen Wines Wilyabrup

Margaret River Mangan East Block Malbec Petit Verdot 2021, $55. Different enough to create interest around the dinner table and clever enough to create even more. A lovely variation on the red wine theme. 9.6/10

Rusden Barossa Valley Christine’s Vineyard Grenache 2021, $49. A lot of people like grenache because it is frequently a bit lighter than other reds, but someone forgot to tell Rusden. Christine is a big, brash girl of great weight yet still fruity enough to stay on the leash. 9.5/10

Majella Coonawarra Sparkling Shiraz 2021, $35. Sparkling shiraz never fails to impress, and good sparkling shiraz never lasts long enough. Wisdom dictates two bottles at least for any occasion, temptation will ensure they get drunk. But then again, wisdom should dictate dogs have legs. 9.5/10

Jacob’s Creek South Australia Riesling 2022, $8. How good is Jacob’s Creek? Providing decent wine to the masses (and rich people with Doodles) at a mass-produced price since 1847. This offering continues the tradition of fantastic value. As egalitarian as it gets. 9.4/10

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

The gentrifcation of suburbs and regions has always been fascinating but it’s become extremely diffcult to rank them lately.

Erstwhile ‘middle-class’ suburbs of modest, three-bedroom, singlebathroom dwellings, on blocks with ample room for kids to play cricket or footy and enough green space left over for some fower beds and a veggie patch, are getting hard to fnd.

In the past you could tell a suburb was trending to gentrifcation not only by the renovations - which typically attempted to replicate the original dwelling above and behind the existing structure to accommodate more bathrooms while still presenting a humble ‘Cal’ Bung’ to the street, or bulldozed the original, replaced with a square,

cement box of little environmental consideration and even less architectural merit, flling the entire block to the permitted building boundary – but also by the cars that inhabited the driveways.

The proportion of BMW, Mercedes and Audis in the street was as big a giveaway as the number of tradie utes blocking access and disturbing the peace from 7.01AM.

In time, Teslas and the number of solar panels became the litmus of living standard.

But the symbols of wealth have changed. Now the level of gentrifcation is assessed not by the cars, but by the breed of the dog in the driveway.

The status of an area is immediately recognisable by the

oodles of Doodles out and about.

Cavoodles are the new currency of the cashed-up, and there’s a strange phenomenon accompanying the trend.

These dogs are so expensive, posh cars are disappearing from the suburbs with high concentrations of Doodles.

Clearly one cannot afford both.

Equally, as Oscar Wilde opined, “to have one Cavoodle may be regarded as a fortune; to have two is impossible”.

However even Cavoodles now are trumped by the new(old) kids on the block, the Labradoodle, or better yet, the Groodle, not to mention the Double Doodle which is a crossbreed, and a common phenomenon whereby there’s a

And let’s not mention bizarre breeds like pugs, the vet bills for which easily outstrip mortgages, even at 6 per cent. Have you seen how much a good ventilator costs?

Naturally people already are cutting back on dogs, leading to the proliferation of breeds which save money on non-essentials such as legs. Enter the Dachshund, if he can get up the steps.

Doodle at both ends of the lead.

ACROSS 1 Drafted Russian cavalry soldier (7)

Windfall (7)

Inherited from one’s family (9)

Exactitude (5)

Pick (6)

Going in (8)

Greek oracle (6)

Nasty (4)

Paradise (4)

Type of brandy (6)

Relating to cultivated land (8)

Maximum (6)

River owing from Tibet to the Arabian Sea (5)

Incapable of being seen (9)

Vote in again (2-5)

Appraised (8)

Grunge musician Cobain (4)

SUDOKU

1 Which storyteller are the fables The Tortoise and the Hare and The Boy Who Cried Wolf attributed to? 2 In which year was The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare rst published? 3 Who directed the lms Boyz n the Hood and Higher Learning?

4 According to NASA, how many con rmed moons does Jupiter have?

5 How many teams play in the Australian Football League? 6 Which band released the albums Adrenaline and Around the Fur?

7 What was Madonna’s (pictured) seventh studio album, released on March 3, 1998? 8 The Ganges river, Meghna river and Brahmaputra river all ow into which bay? 9 How many pens did Barack Obama use to sign the 2010 Patient Protection and A ordable Care Act into law?

10 Gangkhar Puensum is the highest mountain in which landlocked Asian country?

Submit to (4)

Australian fashion model, Miranda – (4)

Central European river (4) DOWN

Donkey (coll.) (4)

Cain’s brother (4)

Street edge (4)

Australian explorer, Edward John – (4)

InDeathMemoriam Notice

GREENHALGH, PATRICK LEE “PAT”

Late of Swan Bay. Passed away peacefully at Lismore Base Hospital on Saturday January 14th, 2023.

Aged 69 years. Dearly loved husband of Narelle. Loved and loving father of Rachel & Je ; and Gary. Pat will be missed by many.

In accordance with Pat’s wishes, a private cremation will take place.

In FuneralMemoriam Notice

ROBERT MAURICE DEEP “BOB”

Passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at Surfers Paradise. Aged 68 years.

Dearly loved partner of Siiri.

Loving brother of Michael, Rhonda and Barry.

Uncle to Louise, Christopher (dec) and Camile (dec); Douglas, Matthew and Alexander. A friend to all who knew him and will be sadly missed by all.

Always In Our Hearts

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Bob’s Funeral Service to be held at St Andrew’s Anglican Church, Zadoc Street Lismore on TUESDAY (January 24, 2023) commencing at 11.00 am. Following the service the cortege will leave for Coraki Cemetery.

Funeral Notice

John Tabor Galvin

Late of Kyogle. Formerly of Glen Innes and Mudgee.

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday 04 January 2023, aged 82 years.

Dearly loved Husband of Lorraine. Much loved Father and Father-in-law of Wayne & Vanessa, Paul & Kelly and Alan & Penny. Cherished Grandfather of Wyatt, Pippa, Esther, Peter and Patrick.

Much loved Brother of Elizabeth, Sally, Jane (dec.) and Jim (dec.)

A Funeral was held at Kyogle Cemetery on Friday 13 January 2023 at 10:30 am.

Funeral Notice

BAKER Douglas Stephen “Doug” 10.4.1952 – 2.1.2023

Passed away peacefully at his home in Kyogle, aged 70 years.

Loved father & father in-law of Tara & Allan, David & Stephanie, and Geo & Denise.

Cherished poppy to his grandchildren Tanner, Austin, Caitlin, and Mason.

Loved by the extended Baker, Galvin, and Schroder families. Special friend to all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to attend the celebration of Doug’s life, to be held at the Chapel of the Lismore Memorial Gardens, Skyline Road Goonellabah. Friday 20th January 2023 commencing at 10:00 AM

,,Biey FAMILY FUNERALS

Funeral Notice

GOUGH, CORAL GAIL (NÉE NEWMAN)

9.10.1933 – 6.1.2023

Coral passed away peacefully on Friday, the 6th of January 2022, aged 89 years. Late of Surfers Paradise, Formally of Lismore.

Dearly loved wife of Norm (dec). Loving mum to 20 children. Cherished grandmother of her many grandchildren, and loving great-grandmother to all her great-grandchildren. Loved sister to Snow.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Coral’s funeral service to be held at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, 10 Zadoc St, Lismore NSW 2480, on ursday the 19th of January 2023, commencing 10:00 am A er the service, the cortege will leave for the Lismore Memorial Gardens Lawn Cemetery.

In lieu of owers, please consider a donation to Spinal Muscular Atrophy Australia, at https://smaaustralia.org.au/donate/

Funeral Notice

DWYER, MARGARET JOAN

23.08.1935 – 12.01.2023

Passed away peacefully on ursday 12th January, 2023. Aged 87 years.

Dearly loved wife of Bill (decd). Loved mother & mother-in-law of Paul & Elizabeth and Geo & Alyssa. Cherished Nanna of Luke, Kieran, Eilish and Jude.

Loved and sadly missed by the MacRae and Dwyer Families.

‘Rest in Peace’

Relatives & friends of Margaret are invited to attend her Requiem Mass for the repose of her soul to be o ered Monday 23rd January 2023 commencing at 10.30am at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Canterbury Street, Casino. Followed by Burial in Casino Lawn Cemetery. Live streaming link: https://vimeo.com/event/2783548

Funeral Notice

SMITH Ian Ross

14.06.1952 – 9.01.2023

Passed away peacefully at Lismore Base Hospital, with his family by his side aged 70 years.

Loved and loving father and father-in-law of David & Mel and Leiarna & Michael.

Cherished Poppy to grandson Harley. Loved and special friend to all who knew him.

Family & Friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Ian’s life to be held at the Gummifera Garden of the Lismore Memorial Gardens, Skyline Road Goonellabah, Monday 23rd January 2023 commencing at 10:00AM.

Followed by interment at the Bexhill Cemetery.

e family would like to thank the carers & friends that have had a signi cant impact on Ian’s life.

Members of the NSW Police Force & Retired Police Association are invited to attend.

6622 2420

You will be missed

Position Vacant – Urban Services Officer

Position Vacant – Urban Services Officer

Council is seeking suitable applicants for a new Urban Services Officer position based at Kyogle, Bonalbo or Woodenbong. The position offers a great range of benefits and career progression, and involves work across all of Council’s Urban Services areas, including: Pools, Parks and Gardens, Community Facilities, Water and Sewer operations, among others. Council is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from people from diverse backgrounds, people living with disabilities and indigenous Australians.

Urban Services Officer Permanent Position 38 hours per week with a 9 day fortnight

$50 195 to $64,360 per annum + 10.5% superannuation

Date

5pm Monday 6 Feb 2023

Applications addressing the selection criteria can be forwarded by email to employment@kyogle.nsw.gov.au or by post, marked “Confidential” to the Risk and Human Resources Coordinator Kyogle Council, PO Box 11, Kyogle, NSW 2474. Please ensure you read the Guide for Applicants and Position Description which are available from Council's website www.kyogle.nsw.gov.au or by contacting Council on 02 6632 1611.

A/C Irwin

Angus & Angus Cross Heifers & Cows

approx. 120 calves at foot, all running with Angus bulls, balance

be preg

Angus & Angus Cross Cows, 2nd to 4th calvers, approx. 60 Charolais calves at foot, 5-9 months old, all running with ANC Charolais bulls, balance to be preg tested 1 Angus Bull A/C Saratini Farms 20 x 20 Simmental Cross Heifers & Cows, 1st to 2nd calvers, calves 4-9 months old 20 Simmental Cross Heifers & Cows, 1st to 2nd calvers, PTIC 10 x 10 Angus & Angus Cross Cows 1st to 4th calvers, calves 4-9 months old 8 Angus & Angus Cross Cows 1st to 4th calvers, PTIC 5 x 5 Brahman Cross Cows, calves 4-9 months old All running with Calmview Charolais bulls

COMMUNITY NOTICES

Please read

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.

ALSTONVILLE

ALSTONVILLE

ALSTONVILLE

BRANCH OF THE RED CROSS

The Alstonville Red Cross branch meets on a monthly basis in Alstonville. As meeting dates sometimes vary, please call Carol on 0424 742 774 for details of our next meeting.

ALSTONVILLE PLATEAU HISTORICAL SOCIETY

At its next monthly meeting at 2pm on Sunday 15th January, Alstonville Plateau Historical Society will proudly present “Introducing Ballina’s Most Recent Settlers”. Stanley Yeo and Ruth Henderson will introduce us to Ballina’s newest settlers, brought to Australia through the Community Refugee Settlement Program. The meeting will be held in the Community Resource Centre at Crawford House Museum, 10 Wardell Road Alstonville. Visitors are very welcome; entry is free, and no booking is required. Enquiries (02) 6628 1829, aphs2477@yahoo.com.au or www.aphsmuseum.org.au.

ALSTONVILLE PROBUS

Our next meeting day, 26 January 2023, falls on Australia Day, so it has been agreed that, rather than change the day, our Club would celebrate Australia Day.

Our frst meeting, therefore, for 2023, will be held at the Alstonville Plateau Bowls & Sports Club, Deegan Drive, Alstonville, on 23 February at 10.00 am. The guest speakers for this meeting will be four of our own members who will be telling of a special time or event in their lives. All visitors or new members are welcome.

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

A local women’s service club that meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at the Plateau Sports Club. Quota is committed to supporting and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the disadvantaged in our community through local projects.

Contact: quotaalstonville@ gmail.com for more details.

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

The theme of the latest exhibition at Crawford House Museum is the natural world – celebrating the natural environment around us. It features all new works by members of the Lismore Branch of the Embroiderers Guild and showcases creative interpretations of not only the theme but also members’ responses to challenges, workshops and competitions. The exhibition runs until Sunday 29th. January 2023. 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. The museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open Fridays 10am-4pm and Sundays 1pm-4pm or at other times by appointment for groups. Enquiries (02) 6628 1829, aphs2477@yahoo.com. au or www.aphsmuseum.org. au. By the way, we always need volunteers – if you’re interested, visit us at the museum or phone or email us.

MCLEANS RIDGES CRAFT

GROUP meet at the McLeans Ridges Hall, Cowlong Road, McLeans Ridges on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Scrapbooking, card making, paper craft, knitting whatever takes your fancy. Come along for an enjoyable day. Bring your own morning tea and lunch. Coffee, tea, milk provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.

SQUARE DANCING Summerland Larrikins Squares Alstonville, Fridays 7.30pm-9.30pm at Uniting Church Hall, 59 Main Street, Alstonville. Contact

0407663017 for further information. New dancers welcome.

BALLINA

BALLINA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE INC. (BACCI)

We are a diverse group of Artists and Crafters that participate in wonderful group exhibitions. Over 50 members are from all over the Northern Rivers. Meetings are usually on the 1st Monday of every month at the Cherry Street Sports Club. Social gathering at 5, for a 5.30 start. For more information - info@ bacci.com.au or phone Deb on 0432105540

BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB

“Social play every Monday 9-11.30am”. Sessions for all levels of players on Mon, Wed, Sat from 1pm to about 5pm. Be seated at 12:45. Restricted session (under 300 Masterpoints) Thu 1pm –about 5pm. Friday mornings – Help with Play – open to anyone who would like some help with their game from teachers on duty. 9am to about 11:15pm. Sessions are $5 for members and $7 for visitors. Everyone entering the club must be fully vaccinated. 13 North Ck Rd, Ballina Please call Judy Forsyth (president) on 0407664337. www. ballinabridge.org.au

BALLINA COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

The Ballina Country Music Club’s “LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC DAYS” are scheduled for the frst Sunday of the Month. After an 8 week break our next “LIVE MUSIC DAY” is SUNDAY 5th February 2023 at THE BALLINA

RSL CLUB, Grant Street BALLINA. To hear the best of Live Country Music be there at 10.45am and share part of the afternoon with Special Guest Artist the ever popular local “Jeff Massey” There will be our fabulous “WALK UP-ARTISTS” and with Santa Claus back in the North Pole we will be looking to hear some original Australian Country styles, so it’s gonna be a great Australian Country Music Day. Backing band for the day is the Northern Rivers ever popular “ANN, BILL and the 2J’s” back from Surfboard Riding and Fishing.

BALLINA CWA

Ballina CWA Handicraft and Friendship mornings have commenced from 9.00 am until 12 noon, in our rooms on River Street (Next to the RSL). Why not come along with or without your handicraft to have a chat and enjoy morning tea for $3. For more information, please ring

our Handicraft Offcer, Barb on 0428116668. Our CWA Branch meeting will be held on Monday January 16th at 9.00am. All are welcome to attend. Mahjong is being played in our rooms from 12 noon on Wednesdays and Thursdays at a cost of $4. For more Information, please ring David 0473587412.

BALLINA EVENING VIEW CLUB

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.

BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB

Has activities every day for Senior Citizens. Monday –Line Dancing 9:30am, Art 1 pm. Tuesday - Line Dancing 9:30am. Wednesday - Tai Chi 8:30am, Bridge 1pm, Ballroom Dancing 6:45pm. Thursday – Yoga 7:30am 4. Line Dancing 9:30am, Indoor Bowls 1pm. Friday – Nothing as yet. Saturday - Bridge 1pm. Contact Bonnie 0414927361

BALLINA TOY LIBRARY

Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina. Open Tuesdays 1pm - 3pm, and Saturdays 10am - 1pm. Ph. 0411 719 074 for enquiries

ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT RETIREES

We will convene again on the frst Friday in February 2023. Any enquiries to John Ritchie, President/Secretary, Fart North Coast Branch, 0437509618.”

FREE COMMUNITY BRUNCH BALLINA

We are now pleased that our hot brunch centre can be held twice a month, the 1st and third Saturday. Everyone is welcome, so come and enjoy a free sausage sizzle, hot dogs, tea, coffee or juice or just come for a chat. This is held at the Ballina Presbyterian Church Hall, on the corner of Cherry and Crane St 10am to 12pm for more information call Chris on 0411510430

IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

How about trying something different? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and

COMMUNITY NOTICES

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

NORTHERN RIVERS NAVAL & MARINERS ASSOCIATION

This association was formed to attract veterans for companionship, wellbeing and to supply advocacy to veterans. We hold an informal gathering every Friday, 2.30pm at Ballina Angling Club (families are welcome). Contact Allan Watt for more information on 0402 749 582 or email jakknco@bigpond. net.au

PROBUS CLUB OF BALLINA WATERS

The Probus Club of Ballina Waters will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday 18th January at the Cherry Street Sports Club commencing at 10.00 a.m. There will be an interesting guest speaker, and proposed activities for the 2023 year will be foreshadowed. An Australia Day morning tea will be held on the 26th as the frst social function for the year. This will be followed by a luncheon on Friday 27th. This club is a mixed club and both men and women are invited to join us for a range of interesting social functions. Further information is available from the President Brian on 0432277170.

CASINO

CASINO R R COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

will be holding a special CHRISTMAS social upstairs at the Casino RSM Club on Sunday the 16th of January 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 & BONALBO UPPER CLARENCE LIONS CLUBS

Casino Lions club now meets each 4th Wed at the RSM.

CASINO COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED

Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am1.30pm. Contact 66626423 DH or casmenshed@live.com. au

CASINO CWA

The Casino Day CWA Our next meeting will be Thursday 16th February 2023. 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: 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.

WEEK 3

MONDAY V.Gray & N.Nowlan

CASINO

J.Lindsay TUESDAY

D.Coleman M. Newstead

WEDNESDAY

J.Connell N.& K.Ryan

THURSDAY B. Bennett

FRIDAY Richmond Valley Council B &

H.Elford

CASINO MINI RAIL

Every Sunday 10am to 4pm. Weather permitting. West Street Casino. Phone 0455673722.

CASINO MIXED PROBUS CLUB

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 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.

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 ASSOCIATION

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.

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon. New members welcome. More info Roz 0427825560

EVANS RIVER RSL DAY CLUB

The Evans River RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Remembrance Room at Club Evans RSL Evans Head from 10am until 2pm Cost $10 includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We have several vacancies for volunteers and members, anyone who is feeling in need of some company are welcome to attend. Come along and join in the fun. Contact Merilyn on 0401493316 for more details.

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP

Meet every Tuesday 9am12noon in the Recreation Hall (opposite the Kiosk). We invite you to join us for a relaxing morning of crafting, friendship and sharing ideas. Beginners are very welcome. Finishing UFO’s, Embroidery, Gold Work, Hexagons, & Group Projects are just some of the crafts done.

Our frst meeting for 2023 is on 7th February @ 9am.

GOONELLABAH

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

Grafton CWA- 15th January

Although Grafton CWA didn’t have a meeting in January, we’ve had a busy week! Last Monday, CWA members attended a morning tea at the CWA rooms, to meet two special visitors from WaggaColeambally. Annette Forsyth and Denise Fergusson, had been friends of the late State President Judy Richardson, and had come to visit her husband in Grafton. They were both very interesting ladies and it was nice to welcome them to Grafton.

Then members enjoyed a visit to Grafton Regional Gallery last Friday, where we saw the exhibition of Archibald Prize entries and the prize winning painting by Blak Douglas. We also enjoyed a delicious morning tea at Rubony’s cafe. Thanks to Lyn our Cultural Offcer for organizing this.

The next meeting of Grafton CWA will be on Friday, 10th February, with morning tea at 9.30 am and the meeting starting at 10am. Craft mornings are held on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month. New members are always welcome.

GRAFTON AND DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB

Happy New Year.

Our next meeting is on Thursday 2nd February at the Joan Muir Centre, 194 Turf St Grafton. 10am to midday. $2 entry at door to cover the venue.

Please bring morning tea to share if you are able. We will have our Bring and Buy table so if you have some plants or cuttings or produce you would like to donate, they are greatly appreciated.

Our guest speaker will be Annette Cook who will be giving a presentation on creating and maintaining habitat gardens. Hope you can make it.

Jane Rhodes Publicity Offcer 0438 593032

graftondistrictgardenclub@ gmail.com

GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Perhaps it’s time to fnd out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly

invited to attend the Mighty Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton. For more information please contact: Vice President on email Jan Coleman janetlcoleman@ gmail.com or Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ graftontoastmasters

GRAFTON SENIOR CITIZENS

“After a recess of 4 weeks, most Grafton Seniors activities will resume week commencing 16 Jan,2023. Memberships: still $10, can be paid any time after that date. New members: welcome to come along on Thursday, 19 Jan, between 9am & I l.30am, to join up, or any Thursday after that date, or meeting day. Next meeting: Tuesday, 14 Feb, 10.30am. No meeting in January. Bus trips: frst for new year Friday, 24 Feb, to Bellingen area, still spare seats. Enquiries: Sandra 6642 7720, or 0417 464 946;’

GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES

Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors

We meet at 10.30 a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with the exercises commencing at 11. All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants

Further information can be obtained from Joan or Brian on 6644 7347 or 0416 067 315, or from Dot on 66423248 or 0477 213 017

GRAFTON VIEW CLUB

Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along, enjoy yourself with a tasty meal, a motivated guest speaker & ultimately disadvantaged children will be helped. Please phone Vorna at 66424719 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along to the next meeting to have some fun & help disadvantaged children. See you there!

CLARENCE RIVER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

“Schaeffer House Museum at 190 Fitzroy Street, Grafton. We will open with a great display of vintage clothes in 2023

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

HASTINGS POINT

HASTINGS POINT

COMMUNITY CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome

When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414 794 380

PROBUS CLUB OF HASTINGS POINT

The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at 10am on 3rd Tuesday each month, in the residents’ lounge at Hastings Point Tricare. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president 0409872773 for additional information.

KINGSCLIFF

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

KYOGLE

GOONELLABAH

KINGSCLIFF

EVANS HEAD

GRAFTON

KYOGLE SUNSHINE CLUB

Meets every Thursday at 9.30am. For more details contact 0499824274.

KYOGLE TIDY TOWNS FARMERS MARKET

Held every Saturday morning in Stratheden Street from 8am -12. Come along grab some local fruit & veggies, experience all Kyogle has to offer. New Stall Holders welcome. Enquiries Anne 66321851

LINE DANCING CLASSES

Beginners are welcome –Kyogle every week Friday 5.30pm. All interested phone Lorraine 0418264489.

LION’S CLUB OF KYOGLE Meeting is held on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at the Kyogle Lion’s shed from 6.30–7pm For more information contact Neville Moon on 0448222334.

RICHMOND RIVER BEEF PRODUCER’S ASSOCIATION

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at Kyogle Showgrounds in the luncheon room at 7pm. For more details Phone Jan on 0427293455.

LENNOX HEAD

LENNOX HEAD CWA

Handy Craft Mornings on Mondays 9.30am-12noon in the community centre at Lennox Head. Call Jan on 66816150.

LENNOX HEAD DAY VIEW CLUB

The Lennox Head Day VIEW Club meets on the frst Monday of each month at the Lennox Head Community Centre with the meeting starting at 11am and includes an interesting speaker and concludes with a light lunch. An informal Coffee and Chat meeting is held on the third Monday of the month. The Club sponsors three students through The Smith Family Learning for Life scholarship program that provides educational items for disadvantaged Australian children. New members and guests are most warmly welcomed, and enquiries may be made to Enid 047187511 or Dawn 0466717435.

LENNOX HEAD EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Lennox Hotel at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. Guests are welcome. “VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith

Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged students.” Lennox Head Evening VIEW Club currently sponsors two Learning for Life students. Contact Sue Brennan 0409728814.

LENNOX HEAD LIONS CLUB

New members welcome to join our close-knit club where the emphasis is on community service in a fun environment. Meetings are on the frst and Third Wednesday of each month at Club Lennox starting at 6.30pm. Members do what they can, when they can to facilitate the needs of our club.

PROBUS CLUB OF LENNOX HEAD

Meets 9.30 for 10 at Club Lennox, 10 Stewart Street, on the frst Thursday of each month. Visitors are welcome, also retired or semi-retired people wishing to join our non-service club to hear interesting guest speakers and to join in trips and outings are invited along. Phone Jan 66876859.

LISMORE

LISMORE BASE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY

Lismore Base Hospital Auxiliary are inviting you to a MEET and GREET

Morning tea on the 2nd of February 2023 at 10am at Oak Tree Retirement Village Community Hall,17 Mackellar Place Goonellabah.

At the morning tea you will have the opportunity to meet our volunteers,fnd out what we do and see if you would like to join our Auxiliary. We are a team from all walks of life,making a difference and having fun.

Some of our activities that might interest you include cooking, sewing, making craft items, working in our Hospital Shop or helping at our craft markets and events.

All money we raise goes towards buying equipment for Lismore Base Hospital which will ultimately help our families,friends and members of our community.

We would love to see you on 2nd February and love it even more if you decide to join us...

Please contact me Rhonda on 0427251600 if you have any questions.

LISMORE CITY CONCERT

BAND

Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.15-7.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you

can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan. For more information, Tel: 0432575911 visit: www. lismorecityconcertband.org. au, and our Facebook and Instagram pages.

LISMORE CWA IT’S ‘23’ SO COME AND SEE what being a member of the Lismore CWA DAY BRANCH could mean to you. We would like YOU to join us for the opportunity to be involved with a truly friendly group of fun, diverse & interesting women of all ages. You will make new friends who will support you, plus you’ll be part of contributing to the lives of Women and Children in our area through our fundraising endeavours. PLEASE THINK ABOUT IT! Why not come along as a ‘guest’ to see how you feel, and experience the difference being a CWA Member could bring to you and your life. We meet on the frst Thursday of each month at 9:30am for a 10am start. Our 2023 meetings commence in February.

FOR MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION call our President Aliison Kelly on 0428 216 079. We also run CRAFT meetings each Friday. You’ll learn new things, once again meet new friends and enjoy creating beautiful craft in great company.

FOR CRAFT INFORMATION call Vicki Boyle on 0437 465 642. WE LOOK FORWARD SO MUCH to meeting you.

LISMORE 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 FRIENDSHIP FESTIVAL INC

Lismore Friendship Festival Inc is hosting a community entertainment BEYOND VENICE with a celebration of entertainment with an

Italian twist. Enjoy a welcome opportunity for locals and visitors to return to a great night out that has been on hold because of Covid. It’s time to party!

Beyond Venice is a fun flled masquerade dance party on Saturday, February 18 2023 (6.30 p.m. – midnight) at the SCU Lismore campus Deck and Lounge. Come dressed for the carnival of masks for prizes and good times with friends.

For information and ticket bookings (essential) contact Julie at 0493631611. Price ($75 per person) includes 3 course dinner, an open bar and dance music by popular Domenico and his Latin Mafa Band!

The event is a fundraiser for the free family friendly LisAmore! day of celebration on Sunday, June 18, 2023 at the Lismore Turf Club. There guests will be able to enjoy special kids’ activities, great stalls of yummy Italian food, entertainment, games, dancing and a chance to learn more about Lismore’s sister city links to cities in Italy.

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, 1:30pm to 4:00pm

at Goonellabah Community Centre in the Goonellabah Public Library, 27 Oliver Ave Goonellabah . . .’ Contact Bev on 0400326289

LISMORE

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

“Lismore Regional Parkinson’s Support Group will meet at Summerland House Farm on Friday, Jan, 20th, at 10am. This will be a planning meeting and all members of the Parkinson’s Community, family and friends are invited to come along, meet with our Parkinson’s Nurses and have a say in the type of guests you would like to see and opportunities you would like the group to offer throughout 2023 to assist us to live well with Parkinson’s. Looking forward to seeing you all there. For further information phone Di : 0423941119”

LISMORE SENIOR CITIZENS

Meet at the Goonellabah Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome

LISMORE

SPINNERS & WEAVERS

Please join us…... Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat…. Sharing Craft & Ideas.

From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds (off Bruxner Hwy) Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug) Contac: Kim- 0423935060 Linda- 0419489987

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).

EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome

LISMORE

LENNOX HEAD

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

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.

SPRUNG

BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Enquires: phone Bob Johnson (02)66225792.

POTTSVILLE

Auditorium next to Library, Brett Street, Tweed Heads.

Guest Speaker January - Tropical Fruit World “Growing Tropical Fruit”

an ex Norfolk Island resident and will be talking about her life there as well as her frst feeter Lydia Munro. All Visitors are welcome.

NRCF WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE

POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB

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

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

Sprung!! is a registered charity and a not-for-proft community organisation that offers Dance, Theatre & Movement workshops and training to people with disabilities. We are currently looking for volunteers to assist our organisation in a number of ways including supporting our Tutors and Disability Support Workers; transcribing; catering; professional skills; technical support and backstage support. Our workshops and performances run in Lismore, Mullumbimby, Tintenbar and Lennox Head expanding to Ballina and the Tweed. Any interested volunteers can reach us here and for general information please contact us on info@ sprung.org.au

SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy and similar subjects. For more details about the club and its activities see the club’s website: https://sarc.org.au/

MACLEAN

MACLEAN VIEW CLUB

Monthly meetings the 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purposes

MURWILLUMBAH

COMMUNITY PRINTMAKERS

MURWILLUMBAH

Fine art printmakers. Meet at studio space 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding. Prints, gallery, workshops and more! E: cpmmurwillumbah@hotmail. com - T: Peter 0498399640 or Sue 0408493253. Find us on Facebook & Instagram.

MURWILLUMBAH

COMMUNITY GARDEN Members and visitors are invited to join the group for activities and gardening tips most Sundays. Time 3-5pm (NSW time), street parking,

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.

TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB

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 for further information please ring President Kathie on 0407 709 629. … Thank you. Freda Shaw: 07 55 41 357

TWIN TOWNS & DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB

Twin Towns and District Garden Club meets every second Monday of the month. Meetings Venue: Tweed Heads Civic Centre

• We offer raffes, lucky door prize, presidents award, trading tables, cuttings table, members prize draw, Benching of plants and fowers and foral art both novice and senior. Begonia Society, Social Morning teas, bus trips and best of all friendship.

• Come along, bring a mug to share a coffee or tea with likeminded gardeners.

See you there, bring a mug. Gwen: 0468 872 199, (leave a message please).

WOLLONGBAR

WOLLONGBAR

PROBUS CLUB

Wollongbar Probus Club is meeting for an informal luncheon at the Wollongbar Tavern at 12 noon on the 19th of Jan.

YAMBA

YAMBA DAY VIEW CLUB

Yamba Day View Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Yamba Bowling Club on 3rd Monday of month, starting 10am for 10.30am. Acceptance and apologies to President Lyn 66463164 by Friday prior to luncheon for catering purposes. We hold a monthly social outing either for lunch or morning tea and visitors are always welcome.

YAMBA LIONS CLUB

Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.

ALL NORTHERN RIVERS

NORTHERN RIVERS BUSHWALKING CLUB

Are you interested in exploring the beauty that our region contains. The Northern Rivers Bushwalking Club offers a variety of activities for people of all abilities and ages in bushwalking, cycling, kayaking, abseiling, qigong and social interaction. Visit our Facebook page or our website nrbc.org.au for more information.

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/women’s-giving-circle/ on the NRFC website for more information and to join the Women’s Giving Circle. murbahcommunitygardens@ gmail.com - follow us on Facebook #MurwillumbahCommunity Garden

The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE HARRIERS is a non-proft community group that is part of a worldwide organisation. The Hash House Harriers meet every Monday at 6pm for a run/walk from various locations around Lismore, Alstonville and Ballina. The run/walk lasts for approximately an hour, followed by friendship, banter and grub.

We are very friendly and welcome new members. For more details email: nrhhh@ freelists.org.

NORTHERN RIVERS PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

Covering Wollongbar to Ocean Shores.

Meets 2nd Friday of each month at Summerland Farm, Wardell Road, Alstonville. A general catch up & chat with the opportunity to join in a casual Q&A session with Rebecca, our Parkinson’s nurse. She will be there to answer any questions that you may have about anything to do with living with Parkinson’s or supporting or caring for a loved one. Maybe you want to know about symptoms, medication, treatments or services etc.

NORTHERN

RIVERS FIRST FLEETERS GROUP

The next meeting of our local Northern Rivers First Fleeters Group will be held on Australia Day at the Cherry Street Sports Club in Ballina at 10.30. Our guest speaker is

Rebecca is there to support us and help you manage your disease so that you live your best life. All those living with Parkinson’s Disease or those supporting them are most welcome.

Please RSVP Cheryl 0428286753.

WOLLONGBAR

MACLEAN

MURWILLUMBAH

POTTSVILLE

YAMBA

TWEED HEADS

ALL NORTHERN RIVERS

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog inland. Slight (20%) chance of a shower. Light winds becoming easterly 15 to 25 km/h during the afternoon then tending northeasterly in the evening. Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog inland. Medium (60%) chance of showers in the south, slight (30%) chance elsewhere. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming northeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then tending northeast to southeasterly during the afternoon.

Northern Tablelands District: Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog on and east of the ranges. Slight (20%) chance of a shower in the north. Winds easterly 15 to 25 km/h becoming light during the morning then becoming northeast to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon.

New South Wales:

Showers and storms across the west and south, extending as far north as the Hunter. The chance of morning fog and the slight chance of a shower in the northeast. Fine and mostly sunny elsewhere. Daytime temperatures above average, tending near average in the far northeast and far south. Warm to hot, northeast to northwest winds ahead of a cooler, gusty south to southwest change in the south and west.

Thursday. Showers and storms across the east and north, contracting northeast. Fine and sunny in the southwest. Daytime temperatures near average in the northeast and below average elsewhere. Cooler south to southeasterly change extending throughout.

Byron Coast: Winds: Easterly 10 to 15 knots turning northeasterly 15 to 20 knots during the afternoon. Seas: Below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres south of Cape Byron during the evening. Swell: Easterly around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the morning. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Coffs Coast: Winds: Northeasterly 15 to 25 knots turning northerly 15 to 20 knots during the evening. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the afternoon or evening. 1st Swell: Easterly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore north of Coffs Harbour. 2nd Swell: Southerly around 1 metre.

Weather: Mostly sunny.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Easterly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to 1 metre during the afternoon. Swell: Easterly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Low:12:56am0.3m High:8:03am1.8m Low:2:43pm0.3m High:8:18pm1.1m

Low:1:50am0.2m High:8:56am1.9m Low:3:32pm0.2m High:9:14pm1.2m

Low:2:43am0.2m High:9:45am1.9m Low:4:21pm0.2m High:10:05pm1.2m

Low:3:35am0.2m High:10:34am1.9m Low:5:07pm0.1m High:10:55pm1.2m

RiseSet Sun6:04am7:48pm Moon1:53am4:10pm

Thursday. Becoming cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the north. High (80%) chance of showers in the south, medium (60%) chance elsewhere. The chance of a storm. Light winds becoming northwest to southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then tending east to southeasterly during the afternoon.

Cherry Street Croquet Club

Sports Results

ASSOCIATION CROQUET : G.Drew C.Woodlands 10 d

P.Waters S.Hume 9

P.Waters G.Porter 14 d G.Drew 9 D.Scott 23 d G.Porter 11

RICOCHET CROQUET :

N.Barnes H.Young 15 d

B.Wellings P.Scott 9

R.Allen N.Poynting 13 d C.Edlund M.Russell 5 N.Watts P.Doyle 11 d M.Field D.Scott 7

R.Poynting 17 d J.Hannigan 7 J.Hannigan N.Poynting 12 d N.Watts P.Scott 9

C.Edlund R.Poynting 12 d R.Allen B.Wellings 9 N.Barnes D.Scott 16 d P.Waters P.Doyle 15

TWILIGHT CROQUET :

J.Saunders B.Taylor 3 d C.Lane M.Russell 2 J.Taylor N.Alfonso 4 d C.Edlund 2 R.Poynting J.Huxley 5 d W.Gilmore B.Liebman 3 N.Poynting 6 d B.Bill J.Hannigan 4 F.Duncan 4 d M.Maloney L.Wesely 4

B.Bill C.Edlund 5 d J.Saunders M.Maloney 3

B.Liebmann N.Poynting 9 d N.Alfonso C.Lane 2 J.Hannigan 4 d M.Russell J.Taylor 2 L.Wesely B.Taylor 5 d J.Huxley G.Porter 4 R.Poynting 3 d F.Duncan W.Gilmore 3 N.Poynting 7 d C.Edlund M.Russell 4 J.Huxley F.Duncan 4 d B.Bill B.Liebmann 2 J.Saunders 3 d C.Lane M.Maloney 1 W.Gilmore N.Alfonso 4 d L.Wesely 3 J.Hannigan 7 d R.Poynting 4

Australian

J Nilsson, T Perkins, S Toms M Fairfull, A Ganter, W Swindle, T Patch, R Gacioppa, P Martin, N Reeves, J Braby. Nearest pins 3rd/12th S Toms, 6th/15th D Vagne.

CORAKI VETERANS GOLF RESULTS THURSDAY 12/1/23

A feld of 52 contested an 18 hole single stableford, winner W Henwood, 2nd C Cupitt, 3rd S Smith, free game G Gibson, chicken/ball winners W Lunnon,

This Thursday an 18 hole two man ambrose will be played commencing with a shot gun start at 8.00am. Please don,t be late. Please note the following Thursday 26/1/23 we will be playing a single stableford followed by our monthly barbque from 8.00am onwards.

AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING Max

Photo courtesy of Tony Powell

By Tim Howard