BYRON Shire Council is under pressure to respond to the state government with a proposal on how it will combat its housing issues.
NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully recently extended the time frame Council had to work out how it would implement 12 planning recommendations advised by the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) to bring more long-term rentals into its housing market.
A key recommendation suggested Byron Shire Council only allow non-hosted Short Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) to be rented for 60 days, per year.
Non-hosted refers to accommodation that is offered without the host having to be there, such as Airbnb.
Originally, Council had until June 24 to respond to the state government about how it might implement the findings of the IPC report as part of its planning proposal.
But Member for Ballina Tamara Smith went into
‘We’re in a housing crisis’ is a common phrase used in many towns and cities throughout Australia.
Byron Shire has been highlighted as one of the hardest places in the state to secure a long-term rental.
According to the NSW Independent Planning Commission’s (IPC) report the social impact of nonhosted STRA in the Shire is also more significant.
bat for the Byron Shire and asked Mr Scully to give the Council more time.
A ‘short extension’ was agreed on.
Mr Scully said there were ‘a number of recommendations that involve action’ by Byron Shire Council.
“I have instructed the Department of Planning to seek advice from the Council on its capacity to implement the Commission’s recommendations,” he said.
“I am currently considering the Commission’s advice and the views of all stakeholders, including the Byron community.”
Mr Scully can accept or reject Council’s proposal.
He would not be drawn on when he is expected to make his determination.
He said there was ‘a complex interplay of issues’ and he must strike the right balance for residents, businesses and visitors to arrive at a sensible solution.
The NSW Independent Planning Commission released its highly anticipated 84-page advice report on Byron
It states much of this difference is due to Byron Shire, particularly the Byron Bay township, being a highly attractive year-round destination for tourism and permanent residency.
‘Some of the housing affordability and availability issues experienced in Byron Shire are consistent with overarching national trends and the pressures faced by desirable coastal regional locations.
‘Others are exacerbated
Shire’s Short Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) planning proposal, on April 27, this year.
The report focused on ‘planning considerations that are relevant to the tension between using residential properties for non-hosted STRA and ensuring the availability and affordability of long-term rental housing’ in the Byron Shire.
In December last year, then Planning Minister, Anthony Roberts, requested the IPC provide advice on short-term holiday accommodation, rental affordability and availability issues in the Byron Shire.
The request was made after the former state government intervened on Council’s plans to adopt a 90-day cap for holiday rentals, such as Airbnb.
A key question was whether the planning proposal by Byron Shire Council to introduce a 90-day cap on the number of nights a residential premises can operate as a non-hosted STRA, should proceed.
In its first of 12 recommendations, the IPC stated the proposal
by Byron Shire’s specific characteristics as a sought-after location with high-value natural and community capital but shortfalls in developable hinterland, vulnerability to flood impacts, specific statutory building height and density controls and a high proportion of nonhosted short-term rental accommodation (STRA)’.
Against a national backdrop of increased property and rental prices, Byron Shire is experiencing a substantial tightening
should not proceed ‘as it would not adequately achieve its stated objectives and may have unintended adverse economic consequences’.
It instead advised to tighten the cap for non-hosted STRA to 60 days across the entire Byron Shire, rather than 90 days, in only certain parts of the Shire, that Council originally proposed.
‘Unlike the 90-day cap, a 60-day cap would send a serious market signal to encourage a shift from non-hosted STRA uses to long-term rental’.
The report also advised STRA within Byron Shire should be defined as a type of ‘tourist and visitor accommodation’.
If owners wanted to use it beyond the 60-day cap, they would need council consent.
The other recommendations outlined, included the NSW Government being advised to work with Council to support the urgent release of more land for housing development within Byron Shire.
It encouraged a return of secondary dwelling properties to
of housing availability and affordability on most metrics when compared to other locations.
The cost of purchased and rental housing has increased significantly, outpacing growth in regional NSW and Sydney. Rental vacancy rates have fallen, and homelessness has risen.
Rental properties are not affordable for lower income households and half the Byron Shire renters are experiencing rental stress.
long-term rental and advised to address worker accommodation requirements and the supply of alternative (non-STRA) visitor accommodation.
It said the state government should support Council in continuing to work with the Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation to address the ongoing housingrelated impacts of the 2022 floods.
Introducing a levy on all STRA properties in Byron Shire was also suggested to provide an income stream to Council that could be used to address amenity, infrastructure and service impacts from STRA on the local community. Improving supply of housing in the Byron Shire could also include reducing approval times, increasing land availability through rezonings and infill initiatives and increasing density controls in appropriate locations.
The IPC report stated Byron Shire was ‘experiencing notable housing availability and affordability issues compared to the rest of New South Wales.’
New housing stock and land releases planned under a suite of existing local and state-level housing policies have not proceeded at a rate that matches demand and community need.
According to the NSW Department of Planning and Environment about 1300 properties are currently registered for use as non-hosted STRA. This exceeds other urban and coastal NSW locations. Some properties currently used for STRA were previously used for long-
Members of the IPC listened to 75 speakers at public hearings including community and industry representatives and Byron Shire Council. And received more than 500 written submissions.
Byron Shire Mayor Michael Lyon did not comment about the timeframe council have been given to respond to the state government with its proposal, but previously said council was feeling ‘very positive’ about the IPC findings.
“The report shows how closely the IPC has listened to the Byron Shire community and Council and that they’ve heard us on the significant housing pressures we’re experiencing and the impacts of holiday letting,” Mr Lyon said. If a 60-day rental cap on non-hosted STRA is approved as part of Byron Shire Council’s planning proposal, it could pave the way for other local councils, including Tweed Shire Council, to also propose strict caps for short-term rental accommodation.
term rental stock, which is no longer available as housing for residents.
The IPC report concluded that the use of properties as non-hosted STRA in a tight residential market, which has already undergone significant increase in property and rental values, is a highly visible contributor to the persistent housing affordability and availability issues in the area.
Distressing words to read for any dog lover last week as local Vet
Dr Bruno Ros of North East Equine Veterinary Services posted on social media on Tuesday 16th May about the incident he says occurred around 3:55pm, in an attempt to find the person he says “lined the dog up, and kept driving, even after the border collie had been hit”.
Bruno relayed the story to us, repeatedly saying that the dog, similar to any animal, wildlife included, was a sentient being, whose life should be considered, and to treat it in this manner, was an unsavoury act”.
The dog was hit during the day, on a long straight road in Coraki, with Dr Bruno giving all manner of signals for the driver to slow down, to avoid hitting the pet dog, who had escaped with a neighbouring dog, and wandered out onto the road.
“I was catching and safely securing the large
brown dog, the friend of the border collie, which takes time as you can imagine, and during this time, despite all the warnings possible, the driver of the white van chose not to slow down at all, but instead, lined up the border collie, and didn’t stop or even slow down.”
“I appealed to the community in the hopes that someone may have a dash cam which could identify the driver, but haven’t heard anything back so far”
Dr Bruno, clearly affected by the act of animal cruelty, has gone first thing to purchase cameras to cover all angles, as he says “he doesn’t want to be in that position again”.
Dr Bruno also urged “anyone who hits an animal, which may happen accidentally, to stop and call WIRES for wildlife, or a local Vet to ensure the animal doesn’t have to suffer unnecessarily, unless it is clearly identified the animal is no longer alive”.
Dr Bruno says “All
animals, as sentient beings deserve this.” Research (1) clearly shows while historically, animal cruelty has been considered an isolated issue, there is a well-documented link that it is a predictive or co-occurring crime with violence against humans, and is associated with other types of violent offences.
By reporting these crimes and identifying them early, more violent crimes can be avoided.
If you have witnessed this or similar animal cruelty cases, report them with as much evidence as you have, registration number and images/video are ideal, to Richmond District police or Crimestoppers- 1800 333 000 https://nsw. crimestoppers.com.au/.
(1. Phil Arkow, “Recognizing and Responding to Cases of Suspected Animal Cruelty, Abuse, and Neglect: What the Veterinarian Needs to Know,” Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports, no. 6 (November 2015): 349-359, accessed January 26, 2021,
It is interesting to visit the shops in my little community and not deliberately, eavesdrop on the topics of conversation.
Guaranteed it will be about the progress the conversationalists are making on their homes or living situation.
I know, because I have been part of many of those conversations.
Today, as I dropped in to get a coffee from one shop, I met up with two locals and we were discussing décor and how we were redesigning our homes.
It was fun to talk about changing colour schemes, additions to the house that we would
talk about but never do except that the flood took us right back to basics.
We put in those sliding doors, changed the standalone oven to one in the wall to save our aging backs, added better lighting to the vanity area, put in VJ panelling and picture rails and numerous other tweaks. Our builder came to inspect our downstairs and measure up for materials this past week.
I think I’ve mentioned before, that while we have been motivated to get our home back to a reasonable standard, the momentum is waning in regards to areas of
the house we don’t use as much, especially as we are nearly emptynesters.
No need for the kids’ hangout area to be fixed downstairs, but we will do it up to at least not have it looking like a builder’s site. The same for the spare room, for when visitors come to stay.
And I guess I’d like the laundry to be updated and tiles replaced.
Oh, who am I kidding? We will be constantly fixing the house up for months to come.
However, it doesn’t all have to be done in one go.
Little steps.
TIME ONLY
BY TIM HOWARD
A new funeral home that has opened in South Grafton this month has added a strong local connection to its operation.
The Parkview Funeral Home’s office in Cowan St, South Grafton, is the latest addition to the group, which operates in Lismore, Ballina and Casino.
Ms Cannon, worked for many years in administration at a Grafton school and has a wealth of local knowledge built from that experience.
“My new role is not as big a change from what I did at school as it looks,”
Ms Cannon said.
“At school I worked with the children and staff in at times sensitive situations.
a sensitive time where it’s important to establish empathy with them.”
She said she has been fortunate to have some outstanding mentors in the company since she came on board last October.
“It’s been a steep learning curve,” she said. “Before the South Grafton office opened I trained at Casino, Lismore and Goonellabah working and learning how to set things up.”
“Parkview Funeral Home have a compassionate team of industry professionals of the highest standard, which is in-keeping with our values, and our focus is to create a meaningful farewell which honours the life of your loved one, while taking care of every aspect which needs to be done, allowing the family to be together and to grieve.
Williamson, who did the honours.
She said the group
But she said people could choose to use their own churches and other
It has appointed local woman, Sharon Cannon, as its manager and funeral director.
“In my new role there are quite a few similarities in that we are working with people at
Ms Cannon said she had been working behind the scenes at the Grafton office prior to its grand opening on May 5.
She said the new building in Cowan St, South Grafton, has been set up to provide funeral services to the whole Clarence Valley.
She said Parkview Funeral Home offered personalised funeral and pre-planning services while supporting and comforting families grieving the loss of a loved one.
“We are proud to be here and to be part of this community,” she said.
“We formalise the paperwork, liaise with local churches, florists, caterers, and other venues, and we also work with the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths, and Marriages, and Centrelink.
“We say to people, ‘let us take your loved one into our care’, and we tailor to what the family would like when celebrating the life of their loved one.
“The family is our number one priority.”
She said the official opening had been a success, with about 60 people in attendance, including newly elected Nationals MP for Clarence Richie
were impressed with the design and appeal of the new building, which includes the latest industry technology.
She said the Gwydir Chapel which can accommodate up to 180 guests can live-stream and has private function rooms.
venues to hold a service.
“We’re also open to other churches using the chapel to hold services,” she said.
Ms Cannon said Parkview Funeral Home was confident it would grow and bring new staff members into the team.
My office will be moving back to 55 Carrington Street, Lismore, now repaired since the February 2022 flood.
This relocation will be effected from Wednesday 2 May until our first fully operational day Tuesday 9 May My staff will endeavour to respond to all phone and email messages
We thank everyone in advance for your understanding as we ‘build back better’ to provide services to our local community for the next four-year term of Parliament.
The family of South Grafton woman Doreen
Robb know how to celebrate her birthday, after all there have been 97 of them and her sisters and brother have been there for most of them.
A casual glance at the family gathering last week at the Grafton District would have taken in a group of older people having a good time.
But that appearance would only scratched the surface of a remarkable occasion.
At 97 Doreen is the oldest child of Arthur and Beatrice Crampton, who brought 13 children into the world and guided 11 of them to adulthood after returning from World War I.
Seven of those children are still alive and five Dorothy (Dot), Violet (Vi), Molly, Dawn and brother Lenny arrived at the GDSC last Thursday, ready to party.
Apart from the twins, Molly and Dawn – babies at the tender age of 87 – the others are all in their 90s, but age does not appear to have wearied, but just slowed them a little.
Another nonagenarian sister, Queenie, wasn’t feeling well enough to attend, but was there in spirit and as a topic of conversation.
Doreen volunteered herself as the quiet one of the family.
“I like to sit back and watch what goes on around me,” she said, amid the bright chatter and banter of her brothers and sisters.
But she has a sharp enough wit.
When I was told she was still living at home and kept a beautiful garden, she drily remarked:
“That’s the trouble with
living by yourself, you have to do everything.”
And how good a gardener is she?
Younger brother Lenny, who at 90 loves nothing more than travelling the East Coast of Australia in his van following the country music festivals, jumped in.
“She could plant a fourinch nail and grow it into a crowbar,” he said.
“I like flowers and growing things,” she said.
“I spend just about every day in the garden.”
Doreen’s other passion –outside family – has been tennis, which she played competitively into her 70s.
“When the tennis is on the TV I love to watch it,” she said.
“He’d only been here a year or two when the war broke out and he enlisted at Cowra and was soon on a ship back to England,”
Molly said.
“He was in the fighting in Europe and he met my mum while he was over
him.”
As a youngster Lenny got a job working on the Snowy Mountains Project working as a plant operator. He worked on building the new Parliament House in Canberra and various highway projects around
on it,” he said.
Going to a dance has been a part of the women’s lives since they moved to the area around Ulong and Molton as youngsters.
“We would think nothing of walking eight miles to a dance,” Molly said.”And
youths, making their debut was something that eluded them until fairly recently.
In 2017 Dawn, Molly, Vi and Dorothy made their debut at Coutts Crossing with five other debutants. “We were presented to the lady mayoress. People who came along that night said it was one of the best debutant balls they ever had,” said Molly.
The conversation turned often to the missing sister, Queen, whose absence surprised the gathering.
Queen’s youthful career as a bullock driver, was remarkable even for her versatile brothers and sisters.
“When she was driving bullocks she could yell and swear with the best of them,” Doreen said.
Of the modern players, Rafael Nadal is her favourite and she has fallen out of love with Novak Djokovic, but she still holds out a candle for a favourite Aussie of yesteryear.
“Johnny Newcombe was beautiful,” she said. “I used to love watching him play.”
Listening in to the conversations around the table the Crampton family have not done it by the numbers.
The father, Arthur came to Australia from England just before World War I.
there after the war.
Molly’s account of her mum and dad’s “online” romance more than 100 years ago might hit a chord with modern readers, although the line they were on was a telephone line and not the internet.
“Mum worked in the telephone exchange as an operator,” she said. “That’s how she met dad, talking to him when he made a phone call.
“From there he arranged to meet her and he brought her back to Australia with
NSW, picking up skills on the job.
“They used to call me the Thiess Spare Part,” he said. “Whatever needed to be done, I could do it.”
Retirement around 30 years ago didn’t suit Lenny, so after a career working on the roads he decided he came up with a design for a “the Lenny, a metal spreader to distribute stones onto bitumen.
“It’s still used today and there’s a world-wide patent
eight miles back at 2am or 3am in the morning.”
“There’s a road between Timm’s Vale and Camp Creek, Crampton Rd, named after us,” Lenny said.
Their love of dancing has been a lifelong passion which the sisters, Vi Dot, Dawn and Molly, shared until recently teaching their ballroom dancing skills to younger generations.
Despite all the ballrooms they frequented in their
“But away from that, she was the sweetest, gentlest person who would help anyone in trouble.
The helping trend continued well into Queen’s 80s when she helped “oldies” mow their lawns.
“Queenie at 84 was mowing lawns for old people who were younger than she was,” Doreen said.
Although several older brothers and sisters reached ages in their 90s, Doreen’s determined to get to three figures.
“Making 100 would be a big thing,” she said
Master Scuba Diving Instructor, and Lieutenant Maritime Warfare Officer in the Navy, Jason Baker early last week found something he had never found before in his many years as a professional diver.
The Femur (top of the leg) bone, belonging to an adult male was discovered in the sand near the Wollongbar Ship Wreck off Belongil Beach, in Byron Bay. With Theo Hayaz still missing, his body unfound, questions on the locals’ lips, are “is it Theo’s?”.
Police have confirmed that the bone discovered in water, near the Wollongbar wreck, is human. Further police dive searches have brought forth more items of interest and Byron Bay police officer Matt Kehoe told media outlets, it has all been
sent for further testing.
“We’ve had some forensic examination done and it has determined that bone is a human bone, we’ve got ongoing forensic examination to identify the origins of the bone and to compare that with any of our known missing persons.”” Chief Inspector Kehoe told the media.
Chief Inspector Kehoe also shared that the bone was a substantial size and hadn’t been in the water for long, the “bone has only been in the water for a short period of time, being either weeks or at most a couple of months,” he said.
Chief Inspector Matt Kehoe also told media that the clues leading to who the leg bone belonged to would not be Theo, but that of a Columbian man who went missing in the Byron Bay surf in March this year.
“We have obtained a DNA sample that we would be able to link from that missing Columbian male, so that will be one of the first avenues of investigations we will pursue,” Chief Inspector Kehoe said. After multiple agencies attempted to recover and save the man, he went missing. A swimmer also attempted to save him, but due to the rough conditions, was unsuccessful at that time. According to police, forensic testing could take a number of weeks.
Tweed Shire Council has issued an amber alert for blue-green algae in the Tweed River at Uki - two weeks after declaring an amber alert for Clarrie Hall Dam.
Council’s water and wastewater operations manager Brie Jowett said the amber alerts meant blue-green algae might be multiplying in the affected waterways. She stressed tap water across the Tweed including at Uki, remained safe to drink and bathe in.
“We have a water treatment plant at Uki and it draws and treats water from the river for the local community,” Mrs Jowett said.
“The heavy rain earlier this week increased the amount of water spilling from the dam, with the water flowing down Doon Doon Creek into the Tweed River upstream of Uki.
“This is the most probable reason why our scientists at the NATA-accredited Tweed Laboratory have just detected blue-green algae in the river at Uki.
“We will continue to ensure drinking water throughout the Tweed is treated appropriately for the conditions.”
Mrs Jowett said the algae detected in the dam and river was not a species capable of producing toxins.
She said if toxinproducing algae were present, Council’s water treatment processes were ‘robust.’
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“We remove blue-green algae from our treated water whenever blooms occur, so our tap water would still be perfectly safe to drink and bathe in.”
However, Mrs Jowett said Council was advising against recreational activities in the Tweed River at Uki and Clarrie
Hall Dam.
Water for most of the Tweed is sourced from the Tweed River downstream at the Bray Park Weir.
The village of Uki has its own treatment plant, drawing water from the Tweed River at Uki.
The village of Tyalgum has its own water supply - the Oxley River at the Tyalgum Weir.
Council is monitoring the situation and maintaining testing twice a week at the dam, the Tweed River at Uki and Bray Park and weekly from the Oxley River at Tyalgum.
The Northern Rivers Times reported on bluegreen algae at Clarrie Hall Dam in its May 11 edition.
While Tweed Council said in a recent media release that ‘blue-green algae occur naturally in still water’ Water Quality Australia provides a more detailed explanation.
It states that Cyanobacteria or blue-green algae, photosynthesise like plants and need sunlight, nutrients - especially nitrogen and phosphorus - and carbon dioxide to grow and produce oxygen.
If conditions are suitable, cyanobacteria can increase to excessive levels and form visible ‘blooms’ which can lead to poor water quality and, with some species, the potential for toxicity.
The algea can reproduce
quickly in still or slowflowing water when the weather is warm and the water is nutrient-rich.
External sources of nitrogen and phosphorus, including agricultural fertilisers, household products, sewage effluent and stormwater runoff, can cause algae blooms to form.
Water Quality Australia states that once a bloom is detected there are currently few ways to disperse it without adverse side effects.
Clarrie Hall Dam has an open and un-gated spillway.
Council has no control over water spilling from the dam once the water level of the dam reaches the full supply level.
Affected water can appear to have a green, paint-like scum on the water, near the edges, or greenish clumps throughout the water and a musty odour.
Warning signs are going up at public access points to the Tweed River near Uki to inform the public of the presence of blue-green algae and any potential risk.
Warning signs remain in place at Crams Farm and the Clarrie Hall Dam wall. For the latest update on algae alerts, visit Council’s website at tweed.nsw.gov. au/recreational-blue-greenalgae-alerts.
When a soldier, in the trenches of the Western Front during World War One, whispered to his dying mate, ‘I’ll look after the missus and the kids’, it set off a chain reaction.
Known as The Promise, those words became the foundation on which Legacy started in 1923 in Melbourne by Sir Stanley Savige, inspired by Sir John Gellibrand. It continued to grow over the next 100 years.
To celebrate its centenary, Legacy has been running a torch relay that started in Pozières, France, where it was lit last month and will be in Casino on June 23.
Darryl Clifford, Chairman of Legacy Casino and Robyn Spruce, secretary, will book end the relay to start at the Casino Military Museum and end at the Casino RSM Club.
“It is a 1.6km stretch that will be completed by five people,” said Robyn.
The Casino branch of Legacy at one stage was
looking after 185 widows and their families.
“We are still supporting about 56 widows,” said Robyn.
“Most of our ladies are World War Two widows.”
Originally, it was returned servicemen who took this duty of caring for and supporting widows and children.
They later became known as Legatees.
To this day, it is the Legatees who volunteer the support that Legacy provides.
Robyn joined Legacy 16 years ago after her husband, Norm, a Vietnam Veteran, passed away.
“I joined the Laurel Club, a social branch of Legacy,” she said.
“Three months later I
was president and still am.”
When Legacy opened the membership up to ladies, Robyn went along to that and two months later was made secretary.
Darryl, also a Vietnam veteran, had done some work for a Legatee and was asked if he would like to join Legacy.
“I joined about 35 years ago,” he said. “And have been chairman for around 13 years.”
Currently, across Australia Legacy continues to support 40,000 individuals and families, with the help of over 3,400 volunteer members, Legatees.
After the torch has been run in Casino, it will head to Lismore then Ballina
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskus has pushed for harsher penalties as a response to group Extinction
Rebellion’s Climate Protests featuring Lismore resident Violet Coco this past week.
The Premier’s brother Rob works for Santos as Head of External Affairs, however he has vowed to “make all appropriate declarations” if a conflict is set to arise in his decision-making, he has told media when asked about the
conflict and his harsh penalties, meaning protestors now may face up to $50,000 in fines for their actions.
Actions included an arrest of “Gina Rinehart” (the name given by Ms Coco who was arrested, glued onto the floor) obstructing entry to the APPEA Oil & Gas Conference, where more fossil fuel, namely gas, projects were being presented for investment for this past week. Other actions taken by the group included an awards ceremony for biggest climate wrecker, a major
arterial road being blocked as one of the members of the Climate Action protest group dangled from a bridge, where she had abseiled down from, and a large banner drop across a major bridge, where the main windows of the conference, were facing, saying “End Fossil Fuels Now”.
Violet Coco just days prior had taken a 48 hour hunger strike action with a number of other protestors on the steps of the Victorian House of Parliament, declaring that food security is a
very real risk of Climate Change. Whilst Violet and fellow protestors do face small fines, they were released after varying amounts of time on remand, some overnight, without convictions.
Violet’s actions, and those of her peers, come as the United Nations legislates to penalise any Nation who does not take immediate and appropriate action, in line with the IPCC recommendations, with those Nations to be penalised through the International Court of Justice.
Fire and Rescue stations across the state opened their doors to the public on May 13 as part of their annual open day.
The open day coincided with the launch of NSW Fire and Rescue’s Winter Safety Fire Campaign.
Members of the public were able to see first-hand what goes on behind the scenes at local fire stations.
At Tweed Heads Fire Station, firefighters took part in active demonstrations, including how they use thermal imaging cameras to assist them with rescues at house or building fires.
They used one of their most recognisable tools - the jaws of life - to show how they extract a person trapped in a crash car. The hazardous material fire truck (hazmat) was on display along with two fire trucks which children were quick to jump in and live out their dream of being a firefighter.
Tweed Heads Leading Station Officer (LSO)
Erin Rampling said they had a great turn out for the day with about 400 people showing up.
“We had really good numbers - these open days are great for us, because we get to share our fire station with the public, but also reinforce our message about fire safety,” Mr Rampling said.
“For the 2023 safety campaign we remind people about the importance of being vigilant at home, because each year approximately
20 people die in NSW from fires that could have been prevented.
“Most of these fatalities occur in people’s homes,” he said.
Mr Rampling said there was still a surprising amount of people who don’t have working smoke alarms.
Residents need to ensure their smoke alarms are not only working but are installed in living areas and bedrooms.
Smoke alarms should be interconnected, so if
one goes off, the other one in the house will too and they’re more likely to wake people up.
Residents can test their smoke alarms once a month by pushing the button on them, which does a quick test.
If it ‘starts chirping’ indicating that it is not working properly, local firefighters can come and have a look at it.
Mr Rampling said Tweed residents are also advised to phone the fire station and book a safety visit for free.
Firefighters will come to the house, check the smoke alarms are adequate and are installed in the correct areas of the home. They will also help residents make home fire escape plans and show them how to use a fire extinguisher.
Other tips to keep fire safe during winter include ‘keep looking when cooking’, not overloading power boards, keeping towels at least one meter away from heaters and clearing the lint in dryers.
Mr Rampling said the station responds to about
1000 calls a year.
“They’re a real mix bag, we have conventional structure fires, industrial unit fires, commercial buildings, but also a lot of motor vehicle accidents,” he said.
“We do a lot of rescues, also industrial rescues - entrapment in machinery - they can be challenging.
“Because Tweed is fairly unique and we’ve got the M1, we’ve got a lot of heavy vehicle movement on there, so that keeps us busy as well - we had a B double
(truck) fire last week on the M1.
“We do a lot of ambulance assistance as well – it keeps us on our toes.”
At Tweed Heads Fire Station half of the 41 firefighters are professional, while the other half are retained on-call firefighters. The station is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
If there is a call out, firefighters will be out the door within two minutes to attend to the incident.
Title: Crucial Choices
Author: Maria Prestinenzi
Publisher: Shawline
Publishing Price: $22.95
By Samantha Elleyis is a book that proves everyone has a story.
Maria is one of many hundreds of thousands of people who came from across the waters to make her home in Australia.
As a happy child in Italy in the 1960s, she then came with her family to a culture very di erent to what she was used to. rough her teens, she experiences language barriers, racism and, of course, boys.
As Maria navigates this new world, she meets and marries her sweetheart and raises a family.
What started as an idea over a bottle of wine, recently came to fruition when the Jumbunna Community Hub had its official opening this week.
A multi-purpose hub, it is located next to the Jumbunna Community Preschool and Early Intervention Centre.
“I am so excited,” said general manager Karen McDermott.
“It was a vision for me as I saw we had outgrown the area we had.”
workshops, meetings and training,” Ms McDermott said.
“We have three therapy rooms, two of them with telehealth facilities.”
people up to 18 years.
The event was attended by the mayor Robert Mustow who officially opened the hub.
“I would just like to say
Jumbunna Preschool which went towards helping purchase part of the land.
It is not without its challenges, however, and she experiences moments of personal success and deep despair, including the issue of mental illness.
e reader can not help but cheer her on as she realises her successes, but then has to make decisions to bene t her family, sometimes above those of her own personal happiness.
Maria Prestinenzi is an Italian immigrant who, by writing her life story, has shown how she overcame the odds of being uprooted and planted in a totally di erent garden.
Still living in Melbourne, where her family rst settled, Maria continues to love learning about di erent cultures and traditions and has travelled extensively and met some amazing people.
You can order your copy from shawlinepublishing. com.au
The Jumbunna community started in 1972 when it opened the preschool.
Now with 48 staff and numerous families, the new hub will be a welcome space for the growing needs of the community.
“We have a room for groups to hold
There is also a kitchen, office space and different areas for community groups.
The new facility will provide much needed additional space for family-based support services such as parenting groups as well as NDIS support for children and young
thank you to Jumbunna for what you do for our community,” he said.
Two blocks of land had been generously donated by the Northern Rivers Food Co-operative and funding was received through a partnership of the Federal and State Governments, as well as $500,000 from
Children from Casino West Public School performed traditional and modern dances for representatives of the community.
Community groups interested in hiring the space at the Jumbunna Community Hub can contact Karen McDermott on 0429232790.
BOAT operators are urged to take care in the Tweed River following several sightings of a dugong over the past 12 months, including one last week.
Dugongs are often seen in Moreton Bay, but the presence of the marine mammals in the Tweed is unusual.
Tweed Shire Council’s Team Leader for Coast and Waterways
Tom Alletson said the dugong may have relocated to the Tweed following the impact of the 2022 flood.
“Dugongs feed on seagrass beds and are entirely dependent on these habitats being extensive and healthy,” Mr Alletson said.
“Healthy dugongs need healthy seagrass beds and seagrass is
reliant on clear water so the leaves can receive sunlight and photosynthesise.
“So far it appears there may only be one individual dugong in the Tweed, and it is not known if it has been here permanently since the first sighting in May
2022,” he said.
Mr Alletson said good water quality was essential to attract and sustain marine life in the Tweed River.
“To improve water quality, we need to continue to address issues throughout the Tweed River catchment.
“This includes measures such as restricting cattle access to creeks, revegetating waterways with native plants and protecting riverbanks from the impact of boat wake and flood flow.”
Mr Alletson said boat owners need to help prevent potential strikes on marine animals and protect seagrass beds.
“People need to take great care not to chop up seagrass beds with their propellers when operating in shallow water - and take extreme care when travelling at speed, close to our more extensive seagrass beds.
“This is important not only for our dugong guest, but for our resident turtles and dolphins too.”
To find out more visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/ rivers-creeks.
“The test of our progress,” once said WWII American President Franklin D. Roosevelt, “is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little.” And it is ironically the shared, albeit very far-removed plight of those at the top end compared to those far below, that generate such deeply unsettling reactions in me.
That 123,000 people in Australia were recorded as being homeless on the last census night in 2021 (up 6,000 from the previous count in 2016) is surely nothing short of a national disgrace. In a country like ours: that one entire MCG stadium full of people sleep without a secure place to call home; and that 45,000 of ‘our’ homeless are under the age of 25 thickens the plot in the most shameful way.
Add into the above societal witches brew the near equally damning statistic that 1.667 million people are unemployed in this country (many of which are not in this predicament through any motivational or gaping skill deficiency of their own) and you have a cluster of issues that jaggedly combine to form a national dilemma.
Working our way up now from the bottom of the nation’s prosperity mill to the earnings of our nation’s top executives, this is where the gross obscenity of the discrepancy in earnings between us is hard to reconcile. Not through jealousy or any inclination to lop a tall poppy (if that’s what this cluster of people even represent) but a puzzled inclination to probe the fundamental question – what is the true worth of any of our services?
Dawe
Just as Steve Kilbey describes music ‘as the gift that keeps on giving’, the same could be said about his creative energy.
The 68-year-old founding member of Australia’s iconic alternative rock band The Church has recently come off a six-week tour of the US.
His ethereal, dream-like lyrics ‘aided and bettered’ by the instrumentation of seasoned musicians, captivated (and mystified) audiences with songs from the band’s latest albumThe Hypnogogue.
To start the ball rolling, the annual salary of arguably our country’s most important role – the Prime Minister is $549,000 (his fellow politicians rake in around $211,000 each per annum). Keeping in mind $41,900 a year is the national median personal income for Australians and you already have a picture that is somewhat out of kilter. But where things start to become truly warped is the fact the top 5 CEOs in this country each earn no less than $15 million a year ($23.72 million being the highest). Digging even superficially into this earning divergence, our top end Cheshires are often validated their incomes by being in ‘high-risk’ industries (i.e., financial related fields) but one could argue how much more high-risk to one’s life is being homeless or having to function (on behalf of an entire family) just above the poverty line? Which begs the next question - Is anyone, irrespective of what they do, genuinely worth millions of dollars a year? Maybe it’s just me, but I couldn’t look myself in the mirror if I was raking in such an obscene amount of money.
If the above snapshot isn’t stomach-churning enough, then ponder the global predicament, which pits 700-million people in the category of extreme poverty and some 2,640 individuals in the glittering herd of billionaire (holding a net worth of $12.2 trillion between them). I’m not sure where it all ends, but I can’t help thinking somewhere within the vicinity of what Karl Marx once suggested, “The last capitalist we hang shall be the one who sold us the rope.”
Kilbey describes the concept album ‘as the best’ of 26 albums released since the band’s formation 43 years ago.
It came together six years after The Church’s 2017 album Man Woman Life Death Infinity.
The time between albums allowed Kilbey to experiment with ‘every type of music’ he had in him, develop The Hypnogogue’s science fiction narrative and bring together the best band he has formed.
The line-up of musicians includes Kilbey on vocals and bass guitar, drummer and producer Tim Powles, former Powderfinger guitarist Ian Haug, multi-instrumentalist Jeffrey Cain and Ashley Naylor, who is considered one of Australia’s finest guitarists.
Kilbey said the ‘very coherent’ line-up has created a unity he hasn’t experienced in a band before.
“When I first started putting bands together, the last thing on my mind was to have a really coherent band that plays really tightly and plays a really slick show,” he said.
“I was a precocious songwriter, and you
know I had my look together - sort of trying to be an Australian version of David Bowie - I could play bass guitar, but there were so many things I didn’t understand, and it took me so long to really understand what drives audiences wild.
“What they really like is when a band is really tight and when they all play together really well - and this band certainly fulfills that.”
The Church played to sold out audiences during their latest tour of the US.
Reviewers applauded Kilbey’s ‘wholesome yet timeless vocals, witty charm and uproarious jokes’ while the band’s ‘collective energy and
showmanship’ made for stella performances.
“I felt like we could swagger on stage every night completely confident that no matter what happens, no matter what the nature of the audience was like, we could slay ‘em,” Kilbey said.
The story behind the album, which Kilbey thought a lot about during covid, couldn’t be truer to the band’s psychedelic and prog rock style of music.
It is told through 13 musical compositions made up of melancholy tones, resounding melodies and elegant acoustic guitar the band has become synonymous with.
Kilbey said the new line-
up of musicians initially started playing around, got different songs together and over time it occurred to him he was making his first concept album.
“The songs started forming concepts, it didn’t all happen at once, it took me a long time to figure it out and I’m still trying to figure it out…”
The Hypnogogue is based on a songwriter living in a dystopian, broken-down future in 2054, who can’t write songs anymore. He meets a woman scientist Sun Kim Jong in North Korea who invented a machine - The Hypnogogue.
“The woman is a hit-song making
phenomenon, but she does it by pulling songs out of people’s minds,” Kilbey said.
“It ends up that the songs are dangerous songs and people who listen to them end up terrified.”
Despite this, the songwriter still uses the machine in an attempt to revive his career.
He falls in love with Sun Kim Jong and then it all goes wrong.
Kilbey said the concept was loosely based on today’s society, or at least where it might be heading, which is becoming shrouded by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and self-interest.
“On the way we bring audiences to certain moments of the songwriter’s life - it’s like a scientific-thriller steeped in music.
“But all the songs work together as compartmentalised pieces.
“There are a couple of songs on the album that I really love to play, one of them is called ‘No Other You’ and to me it’s one of the most lovely and romantic love songs I have ever written - you can take the whole story out of the equation and it’s still a beautiful song.”
Kilbey said the song was ‘unashamedly and unapologetically’ David Bowie.
He hasn’t resisted any of his musical inspiration, like he may have 20 years ago, and said it is the most prog rock album the band has made.
While he admits it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially if people are into typical pub rock songs, he describes it as complex, layered music and lyrics that makes listeners think.
“One time I had a guy quote my lyrics - ‘They’re going to send you away she said psychic angels spread on the top of her head’ - and say to me ‘why do you have to write about that stuff’.
“I said what do you want me to write about – he said what’s wrong with
cars and girls and getting into fights - you know ‘it’s a long way to the top if you want to rock n roll’ type stuff.
“But our songs have many layers and textures musically and lyrically - it takes people of a journey.
“At first people sometimes can’t understand it but if you listen to it over again it starts to reveal itself.”
After spending almost his entire life making music, Kilbey still isn’t sure how a combination of ‘chords, lyrics and notes’ can be so mood altering.
And his passion for music will be the last thing that fades into the distant out-of-this world realms, his songs transport you to.
“We find we’re constantly evolving and moving forward, and our new songs are as good as our old.
“We’re not a nostalgia act.
“There’s been a bit of a tendency in rock n’ roll where they sort of start getting a bit soft and the big ones (bands) rely on their back catalogue of songs.
“I don’t really like lingering in the past.
“I sometimes wish I was playing to Elton John size audiences in an arena but having to trod out all those songs from 42 years ago that would feel like some kind of death to me.
“I don’t mind trodding out some old ones as long as I can play some new ones and luckily our new album is full of some really good songs to play.”
Kilbey said it had been a long slow haul and after 26 albums The Church, in his opinion, has made some ‘ok albums and some really, really good ones’.
After finally ‘adjusting all the controls and getting it right’ The Hypnogogue has rolled off the table and it as a masterpiece.
“I guess it’s much like Puccini (famed Italian composer) he was doing his best music towards the end of his life,” he said.
Australian audiences are next in line to be treated to The Church’s creative talent.
Kilbey said there is nothing more he would rather do than go around Australia and play the new album, as well as some of the band’s classics such as “Under the Milky Way’.
“It will all be skilfully mixed up together with the continuity through the last 43 years of all the stuff we have done.
“We are giving them a good cross section of songs and it is a long, three-hour show where we run the whole gamut.
“We have an acoustic bit where we take it all down to acoustic guitars and reinterpret some songs, we have pounding, psychedelic jams, we play all the hits from our career - it’s a brilliant across the board section of The Church.”
THE CHURCH WILL PLAY AT THE TWIN TOWNS THEATRE ON SATURDAY, MAY 27 AS PART OF THE HYPNOGOGUE WORLD TOUR. FOR TICKET
INFORMATION
VISIT: WWW. THECHURCHBAND.
NET
THE CHURCH ON TOUR
THE Church have unveiled their 26th studio album The Hypnogogue with eight Australian dates announced for The Hypnogogue World Tour. The ARIA Hall of Fame inductees will celebrate 43 years since their formation by embarking on the extensive world tour performing new music and songs from their 26-album career.
The Australian leg of the world tour will come off the back of a 21 city, six-week US tour and will stop at eight cities across the country, including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Hobart, Adelaide, Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Newcastle.
The Hypnogogue is a monumental concept album which captures the band’s bespoke sound without re-treading creative steps.
The record features
band has ever done.
“We’ve never created a concept album before,” he said.
“It is the most teamwork record we have ever had. Everyone in the band is so justifiably proud of this record and everyone helped to make sure it was as good as it could be.
“Personally, I think it’s in our top three records. The complexity, the way the songs relate to each other and the level of collaboration that has gone into the record.
“It will go on rewarding you for years and years. There’s lots of subtle references to other artists, other songs and other times”.
recently released singles The Hypnogogue, C’est La Vie and No Other You, offering a pool of melancholy tones and psychedelic swells, transporting listeners to another realm, guided by its striking science fiction narrative.
The album was recorded at iconic Australian studio Damien Gerard Studios on the Central Coast and mixed by Darrell Thorp (Radiohead, Beck, Foo Fighters).
Bassist, vocalist and founder Steve Kilbey said The Hypnogogue is the most prog rock album the
The Church yield an expansive music career with a phenomenal back catalogue of songs including Reptile, The Unguarded Moment, Almost With You and Under the Milky Way regarded as one of the most influential and recognisable Australian rock anthems of all time. Their equally stellar live shows have been deemed ‘spectacular’ by MAGNET Magazine, citing their ‘dreamy psychedelia that will daub your evening with shades of paisley’.
Last year’s performance to a 50,000 strong crowd at USA’s Cruel World Festival alongside Blondie, Bauhaus and Morrissey was heralded as ‘a subtle delight that captivated the late afternoon audience’.
Lunch and Dinner 11.30am-2.30pm / From 5.30pm
Starts 2nd June
The debriefers for the organisers of Grafton’s first Marketta have only one question to answer: when is the next one?
A crowd estimated at more than 5000 packed into the centre block of Prince St on Saturday afternoon and evening to sample the wares of local businesses and
take in the entertainment provide in the street and on the big stage.
The Marketta, funded by the NSW Government Streets as Shared Spaces Program, was a joint effort of the Grafton Chamber of Commerce, Clarence Valley Council and the Jacaranda Festival.
Jacaranda Festival manager Mark
Blackadder was delighted as he moved around the stalls and events in the packed street.
“Everyone involved has responded amazingly well,” he said. “And from the crowds we’ve got here, we certainly got the marketing right.
A member of the Bent Bridge Brewing team, Mick Harris, spoke for
many of the stall holders.
“It didn’t just happen, there was so much work going on behind the scenes in the lead up to it,” he said.
“But it’s been all worth it. All the stalls are local businesses and that’s made for a real community atmosphere in the street.
The main stage on the Fitzroy St roundabout
was the focus of the night with a continuous array of entertainers.
Uncle Ken Gordon kicked off the entertainment with a Welcome to Country and introduced e Garimaa Ngahri Dancers.
A highlight of the dancing was Lennox Monaghan playing the yidaki (similar to a didgeridoo).
Performances from Eli Fahey and his band, Hats Off and the Ryan Martin Trio kept the crowds bopping into the night.
There was also plenty for younger people with free face painting, balloon art and street art stalls all doing a roaring trade.
‘Leemo Cat’ here. NUP, I have not YET gone to Heaven and ‘Mum Jane’ is helping me write my words this week. In truth, I am still not at all well ere are some spaces in time where I kinda do feel AOK. But, there are other times where I don’t feel good; I just feel in pain and stressed. I know this is a ecting Mum in a most awfully adverse way which I can tell ‘cos of the way she is behaving. However, I believe she has an unrealistic expectation that I will just, all of a sudden, be back to my old self but it’s not happening as she wants. I HAVE told her that ‘WANTS’ and ‘HOPES’ are for completely di erent scenarios, and to stop being so illogical. I, myself, do so much want to be better too, but at this point in time I simply am not. So, there you have it, a kinda outline of the situation with me and Mum right now. I have been to the Vet Surgery (where they are all wonderful, caring and lovely) 4 times in 10 days. ( ey have not however, o ered me or Mum ‘Frequent Visitor Points’ for a plane trip to the Himalayas where my far distant Cousin, ‘Rinpoche’ the Dalai Lama’s Cat lives. She is an extraordinary and gi ed mystical feline and I know IN MY HEART she would have simply laid a paw on me and xed my illness.)
e nice Vet Surgery did give Mum, however, (free
of charge) a ginormous bag of ‘Vet Prescription’ Urine treatment biscuits which are apparently very safe for me to eat and will assist in my recovery. When it comes to biscuits, I’ll explain. Mum is one of those humans you meet in life, I would describe as, quite purely, a gullible person who trusts that everything she reads, and all she is told or hears is an unequivocal truth or fact. She is a ‘believer’ in possibly the wrong sense of the word due to her inane most trusting nature. As an example, I, Leemo, could tell her that one of her ears has fallen o . Instead of questioning what I have told her, she would go looking for her ear instead of checking that it may well still be attached to her head. Comprende?
Hmmm. Let me explain. Since I have been unwell, Mum has been reading about and watching stu relating to my condition. She told me she watched a show from a handsome sur e kinda looking Vet from USA who said cats should never ever be given biscuits. en, when she took me to our local Vet, they told her that there are truly safe biscuits for cats, specially those with my condition, and are Vet prescribed. So, “I” Leemo, did some research. Crikey, I do so wish I could speak human words…best I can do is suggest that pet owners avoid the ‘bad’ stu to look for when buying food containing Corn/Wheat Gluten, Meat, Grain meals & by-Products like BHA & BHT, PG. I hope this helps you in choices. Mum told me just HOW $big healthy food & treatment is for pets, and it hurts me that due to cost, some people can’t look a er their beloved animals! She was also told yesterday by the Vet that my condition really can’t be xed in the long-term, but we can try, over time and diet, to keep me as well as we can in the interim. My belief is that “LOVE Rescues Everything” so me & Mum are doing what we can to make me better, with big dreams & hope to win Lotto. With love & purrs, Leemo (& Mum Jane)
BY KATE COXALL
Pump prices getting you down? Have you considered going electric? Would a Ute run by your own electricity supply, spark your interest? Northern Rivers residents can find the details for the Electric Ute Roadshow, which is travelling through the region, starting with Grafton, tomorrow, Tuesday 21 May at 5:30pm and Lismore on Thursday at 5:30pm on the Solar Citizens website: https:// www.solarcitizens. org.au/Solar Citizens is an independent, community-based organisation working to protect and grow renewable energy and clean transport in Australia. Their roadshow is in part, a response to what they say is not enough, in the Federal budget, for clean transport addressing the cost of living crisis.
In response to what they say, is the significant lack of focus on clean transport spending within this Federal Budget, Solar Citizens National Director Heidi Lee Douglas said “although the organisation warmly welcomed investment in clean energy in the budget, she hopes that the government soon starts to deliver on the significant opportunity for cost-of-living savings from clean transport”.
“Rising fuel prices due to Russia’s war in Ukraine have left Australians dealing with record high fuel prices at the petrol pump. High fuel prices are especially bad for regional Australians, who on average drive further, have older, more inefficient cars, and pay more at the petrol pump than people in cities. This means a higher portion of regional Australians’ income is being guzzled up and sent offshore to foreign oil barons,” said Douglas.
“In addition to its commitments to a Fuel Efficiency Standard and charging infrastructure
for electric vehicles, this Government should now focus on ways to secure smart, effective cost-of-living savings for Australians from clean transport.
“We can essentially eliminate household fuel bills if we marry electric vehicles with the rollout of more home solar, enabled by the low-interest loans for energy-saving home upgrades in this Federal Budget. This would be a massive saving for Australians’ hip pockets amid ever-rising household costs.
“In addition to what’s already included in the program, the Federal Government should extend the low-interest loans for energy-saving home upgrades to e-bikes. Households could see huge savings by swapping out their second car for an e-bike, and also reduce congestion on our roads and carbon emissions.”
Earlier this month, it was announced that Transport Minister Catherine King would conduct a 90-day review into infrastructure projects, to assess which projects are the highest priorities for Australia’s national interest.
“We welcome Minister King’s 90-day review into infrastructure projects, and urge her to address ways that sensible, long-sighted transport decisions can help reduce
cost-of-living,” said Douglas. “We urge the Government to prioritise walking, cycling, and public transport infrastructure when assessing projects during this review – putting people and the planet first. “Building and widening urban freeways encourages more driving, causes congestion and carbon emissions, and is an expensive option for households while petrol prices skyrocket. Instead, building more walking, cycling and public transport infrastructure gives people a low-cost, low-carbon and healthy alternative to driving, while also reducing congestion”
“Solar Citizens supports the Climate Council’s call for 50% of the transport budget to be spent on public transport and 20% to be spent on walking and cycling, but any shift in this direction would be very welcome.”
The Federal budget commitments for clean transport include:
Reducing Transport Emissions
The Government will provide $20.9 million over 5 years from 2022–23 for initiatives to decarbonise the transport and infrastructure sectors and support achieving the net zero by 2050 target. Funding includes:
• $7.8 million over 4 years from 2022–23 to develop a Transport and Infrastructure Net
Zero Roadmap and Action Plan to support the $7.4 million over 4 years from 2023–24 to develop Fuel Efficiency Standards to encourage light vehicle manufacturers to increase the supply of fuel efficient and electric vehicles in the Australian market
• $5.2 million over 4 years from 2023–24 to support Australia’s transition to electric vehicles through the development of a national charging infrastructure mapping tool, safety guidance and training for emergency service workers. Funding will also support the evaluation of requirements for retrofitting existing multiresidential buildings with electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and a large format battery recycling, reuse and stewardship initiative in Australia
• $0.6 million in 2023–24 to develop a Maritime Emissions Reduction National Plan to facilitate the energy transition for the domestic maritime sector.
“Leemo has views on just about anything”
WHERE
There’s nothing like discovering the hidden gems off the main highway, places you can take the family and relax, eat, create memories and have experiences you hadn’t even thought about let alone making them a reality. Get away for a week or even a weekend to rejuvenate you mind, body and spirit. The Northern Rivers Region has an abundance of almost secret spots if we set out to see them. Our creeks and rivers, forests and beaches are second to none and once you’ve been you will return time and time again. Along the way there’s plenty to see and do, the landscape is a pleasure to drive through with rolling fields, hills and mountains, along the magnificent coastal beaches taking in the Tweed, Byron, Lennox, Ballina and beyond.
Enjoy sumptuous food, gorgeous surrounds, crystal clear water, white sand and the flora and fauna will take your breath away. Whether your looking for an action packed holiday or simply some peace and serenity, Northern New South Wales has it all. Call in to quaint Murwillumbah and check out Belle M Boutiques winter line then cruise through to the Chillingham Store where an array of treats awaits you. Pop out to Tyalgum and visit the Tyalgum Hotel or Mariefields Farmstay, through to Uki for lunch at Mavis Kitchen, through Burringbar to Tweed Valley Cheese, down to Clunes and stay a few nights at Nutting Hill Villa, the ultimate in luxury. You can stock up on goodies at Clunes Store for your stay. Spend the day at Invercauld House at Goonellabah, rest and relax at Clarence Valley Wilderness Lodge at Tabulam where the kids can go wild in nature or gorgeous Hidden Valley Tea Gardens and Camping at Loadstone. A visit to Clay Corner in Kyogle is a must while out this way.
The Tyalgum Hotel threw open the doors to the excitement of the Tyalgum Village – in time for summer with a revitalised Bistro, Bar, Pool and Accommodation.
Tyalgum, a picturesque village, was once a must do for the Gold Coast and Brisbane drive market, however road closures has led to tourism suffering for overtwelve months, and it looked as though things were about to get much worse when the only pub in town closed the doors last August.
However, a last-minutereprieve and a hands on, intensive renovation that could have given the Block a run for its money has seen the pub relaunched to a welcoming community, with three chefs in the kitchen and a focus on supporting local producers.
The hotel website is now live at Tyalgumhotel.com
With the official opening by Janelle Saffin MP on January 25 at 11 am a new chapter of supporting live music, excellent bistro meals, revitalised accommodation, cold beers and providing a focal point for the community begins.
39 Coolman Street, Tyalgum NSW 2484
BOOK ONLINE:
The Apple & Grape Motel offers quiet, comfortable, and affordable motel accommodation right in the heart of Stanthorpe town. Our rooms are very quiet, with all accommodation set back from the main street, ensuring a comfortable and peaceful sleep. We have a variety of motel room types available to suit a range of holiday makers and visitors from families to business travellers and couples in addition to accommodating guests who require disabled facilities.
Our bright rooms offer free Wi Fi, flat screen TV, microwave, mini fridge, as well as tea and coffee making facilities. Within walking distance to the main street and restaurants, what more could you need.
Experience the variety that the Stanthorpe region, the Granite Belt and the Southern Downs has to offer. Follow your taste buds and sample local wines, preserves, jams, olives and chocolates while visiting our many wineries, national parks, lavender and berry farms and try the delicious fruits and vegetables at the fruit stalls and orchards.
Give your friendly hosts a call on 07 4681 1288 to book your getaway.
Tweed Valley Whey Farmhouse Cheeses is a small 100% Australian family owned and operated artisan dairy farm. We run 100+ head of dairy cattle which supply the A grade milk for all our products. We would love to welcome you to our family farm nestled in the gorgeous Tweed Valley in Burringbar. You can buy direct from the gate, share a meal, taste our cheeses on a platter or indulge in our artisan gelato made with our fresh milk straight from our dairy.
Tweed Valley Cheeses make a delicious range of artisan cheeses to suit every palate. We sell these from our on-farm outlet alongside our licensed café where you can relax with a light lunch, cake and coffee or devonshire tea. Our retail area stocks pottery, timberwork and other artisan produce. Enjoy a cheese or antipasto platter, one of our home baked quiche, scones or slices under the cool undercover eating area and enjoy our farmhouse hospitality.
We are adjacent to the newly completed Tweed Rail Trail so stop in for a refreshment or two. Or better still, camp a few days or more with us in our self-contained camping area and explore the Rail Trail and the beautiful town of Burringbar at your leisure. With biking and hiking to keep you busy, your stay with us will be one to remember.
Call us now on 02 6677 1111 to book your next adventure.
Established in 1922, the Chillingham General Store is nestled in the lush hamlet of Chillingham in the gorgeous Tweed Valley. 10 minutes from the Queensland border and an hour drive from Byron Bay. For 100 years we have been providing drinks, food, fuel and groceries to locals and visitors alike. We also boast a Post Office and licensed bottle shop with a lovely beer garden surrounded by beautiful gardens. We are a family owned and operated business dedicated to serving fabulous food, providing essential goods and services to our customers as well as an ambient atmosphere in our al fresco dining area. Our Heritage Listed building will delight you, all the special nooks and crannies created over 100 years.
Every weekend you can enjoy live music and pizzas with the family, keep an eye out for our special food nights – curry, Italian to name a couple. Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter to keep up and be prepared for the activities at Chillingham Store. Call in and grab one of our classic burgers, fresh sandwiches and rolls made every day, homemade cakes, pies and sausage rolls, milkshakes, coffee and tea all made to your liking.
Pop in soon to experience the historic chillingham store, enjoy our food and wine and soak up the atmosphere.
Nestled in the heart of Kyogle, next to the Roxy Gallery on Summerlad Way, Clay Corner stocks handmade pottery and artwork from Kyogle and the Northern Rivers. Well worth a visit, Clay Corner is a feast for the eyes and senses, full of locally made pottery, candles, jewellery, cards, metal work, windchimes, birdbaths and many other nick knacks. There is also a large variety of stock sourced from other small Australian businesses and designers, such as gold and silver jewellery, all natural personal care products essential oils, and perfumes.
So many items with a focus on Australian designs of birds, animals, and Australian flowers. For the children there are wooden puzzles, children’s books and soft toys of Australian animals, bamboo bird and butterfly brooches, a selection of beautiful journals and cards made from recycled paper and jigsaw puzzles to baskets and shopping bags all ethically sourced.
If you’re looking for a gift or a souvenir look no further than Clay Corner.
perfect place to relax in Queensland’s Wine Country.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in the beautiful Scenic Rim, then look no further than Herrmann House. It’s the new, overnight home which is perfect for brides to be, couples or friends wanting to getaway. Herrmann House is located at 37 George Street in Kalbar, Queensland. Originally, the site housed one of Kalbar’s oldest houses. It sat there by itself since the turn of the century, then recently another historic Kalbar home was moved to the same site to create the big, beautiful country homestead steeped in history.
Enjoy the comfort of this historic homestead boasting 3 king bedrooms each with ensuite, 1 queen bedroom with ensuite, beautiful kitchen facilities, wif and netfix and much more. Snuggle around our frepit in the gorgeous garden area and watch the star flled sky. Herrmann House has been awarded a four and a half star rating by the QLD Tourism Industry Council, and we look forward to welcoming you soon. Call us now to book your next getaway on 0478 767046 or contact info@herrmannhouse.com.au
We’re not just a general store, Clunes Store is a multifaceted business that combines a boutique cellar, a bustling café, post offce and much more. We pride ourselves on sourcing local, sustainable and specialty produce and provisions as well as everyday needs for the community from your frst coffee of the day, making breakfast to grabbing goods for the pantry. The Clunes Store provides the Clunes community with the best fresh produce and artisan products straight from local farmers and producers. For lovers of all things bulk and waste free, we have a bulk foods section flled with local, organic and spray free options – nuts, seeds, fours, pastas, dried fruits, lentils, pulses, muesli, oats, grains, and chocolate. Our Clunes Store Cellars are the exclusive cellar door for Jilly Wines. We stock a high volume of small batch natural wines, craft beers and ciders which we have on tap so bring your own bottle or fll one of our Clunes Store growlers or squealers.
Our new Café provides breakfast and lunch opening till 3pm. Every Thursday night is Pizza Night and Friday is Gyoza/ Japanese Night with the bar open. Everything on the menu is made in house or locally, with a menu designed to offer something for everyone from a classic bacon and egg roll to vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options, our dishes cater dietary requirements and preferences across the board. It’s simple food, done well.
Nestled at the base of the majestic Wollumbin-Mt Warning, this 25 acre former dairy farm is home to a relaxed country style restaurant, a rich organic kitchen garden, eco-friendly B&B Cabin Accommodation and a highly sought after wedding and events venue. Surrounded by world heritage rainforest and the fertile farmland of the lush Tweed Valley, it’s no wonder the focus here is all about sustainability.
Less than an hour’s drive from Surfers Paradise, and 40 minutes from Byron Bay, the Mavis’s Kitchen Team use fresh, organic produce from their own kitchen garden and local food producers. Presented In a spectacular natural environment with stunning views, our food is delicious and second to none. Our restaurant is open for breakfast on the weekends 8am – 10.30am, lunch Wednesday to Sunday 11:30am till 3pm and Dinner Saturday nights only from 6pm.
If a meal at Mavis Kitchen is a feast for your senses then a stay in one of our Cabins is a salve for your soul. Whether you’re sharing with friends or taking time out for some personal pampering, each cabin has its own special character, charm and style to suit your needs. Spend a night, a weekend or as long as you like and experience the bliss of waking up in paradise.
For more information or to make a booking, call us on 02 66 795224.
Nutting Hill is the perfect venue set on 100 acres among majestic gardens. You can wander from the Castle Villa through the shady macadamia orchard to Emerald Lake, play lawn games or laze in the cabanas at either end of the spectacular heated infinity pool.
There is a separate wading pool for the little ones adjacent to the barbecue and vast outdoor entertaining area.
The 100-acre property is completely off grid offering total privacy.
Fabulous sunsets and spectacular valley views. We boast 5 spacious bedrooms and a mezzanine that can convert to a sixth bedroom, 3 bathrooms, 2 powder rooms and an expansive kitchen for you and your guests.
Nutting Hill is the ultimate Mediterranean Luxury Retreat.
Instagram: nuttinghill_
Nestled on 165 acres of land in the beautiful Tweed Valley, Mariefields Farmstay offers a spacious 6 bedrooms of deluxe accommodation, plus a separate Banquet Barn for exclusive use of guests. The 4 king bedrooms and 2 single bedrooms have quality linen with very comfortable beds and sleeps up to 10 guests. Our king beds can be converted to singles. With a snuggly fireplace, 84-inch smart TV, leather lounges, 2 bathrooms and 2 separate toilets, fully equipped kitchen, BBQ on veranda with 2 days beds, you can’t want for more to enable a relaxing holiday. We have professional caterers ready to ensure you don’t have to cook at all if you don’t want to. Adjacent to the homestead is the Banquet Barn with long timber tables and chairs, pool table, lounges etc, making Mariefields ideal for parties, reunions, family get togethers or corporate meetings and a lovely seminar venue. There’s lots of activities including koala forest walks or creek swimming in an organic environment with abundant wildlife and domestic animals to enjoy or sit around the outdoor firepit to enjoy homemade scones and jam with billy tea and enjoy the views of the caldera and Mt Warning. We are the home of Bill Mollison’s first permaculture farm in the world, and we invite our guests to sample our organic rainforest mauka honey fresh from our apiary. Call us now to book your relaxing holiday amongst nature at its finest.
Invercauld House in Goonellabah is a beautiful venue right on your doorstep.
Manager Sara Brennan, said the conference centre is perfect for both small gatherings and large groups.
“We have five conference rooms available, with our largest fitting 150 people in theatre-style seating.
“For smaller groups, our Valley View room is set apart from the conference centre in a separate building. Catering to around 15 people, the private room has a balcony with stunning views and its own kitchen,” Sara said.
“All rooms have fully automated lighting and audio, video conferencing, projector and large screen display.
“We don’t just host conferences, we host a range events such as weddings, birthdays and wellness retreats.
“Our dining room and pool area is perfect for parties and barbeques and there are 29 accommodation villas so your guests can stay onsite and enjoy a few drinks at the bar and a delicious meal cooked by our catering team,” said Sara. Call 6624 1881 to book a tour of the venue.
With frontage to Grady’s Creek and backed by a goods train line, the occasional sound of the train’s toot delights campers every time. We offer general camping, an area for tents and swags and custom bookings are most welcome. We will go out of our way to accommodate large groups together. We have 2 amenities blocks, 6 toilets and 6 hot showers.
The Tea Garden Café is open on holiday weekends- Christmas, Easter, Australia Day, Anzac Weekend etc or on request and booking for parties, car shows etc. Enjoy our barista made coffees, Devonshire teas, breakfast menu, hot food including hamburgers, hot chips, sandwiches and more as well as a variety of cold drinks. Firewood and Ice are also available to purchase.
Hidden Valley is dog friendly; owners are asked to keep their dogs under control so all campers can enjoy their stay. Set on 26 acres of lush bushland, there is plenty of hiking trails, nature to discover, swimming, beautiful green wide-open spaces to lay back and relax to your hearts content.
Call us to book your next getaway to nature.
Empowering both individual real estate professionals established agencies to take control of their future and bring an entirely new level of service to clients.
Rental Specialist - contact us to view available rentals. 0457 200 210
427 Hillyards Road, Boorabee Park
Dubai is a city that is known for its luxurious lifestyle and glamorous vacations. From the towering skyscrapers to the sprawling desert, Dubai is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting city escape, Dubai has something to offer. When it comes to the perfect holiday destination, Dubai should be at the top of your list. With its stunning beaches, world-class shopping, and bustling nightlife, Dubai is the ultimate destination for a luxurious holiday.
There’s something for everyone in Dubai, from the high-end resorts to the budget-friendly hotels. One of the best things about Dubai is its stunning beaches. With its warm waters and white sandy beaches, Dubai is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic get-away or a family holiday, Dubai’s beaches are the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy some quality time with loved ones. If you’re looking for some excitement, Dubai has plenty to offer.
From the world-famous Burj Khalifa to the iconic
Dubai Marina, there’s something for everyone in this vi-brant city. From the high-end restaurants to the bustling nightlife, Dubai has something to offer for everyone.
When it comes to shopping, Dubai is the ultimate destination.
From the worldrenowned Dubai Mall to the boutique shops of the Gold Souk, there’s something for everyone in Dubai. Whether you’re looking for designer labels or bargain buys, you’ll be sure to fnd something to suit every budget. When you’ve had enough of the hustle and bustle of the city, it’s time to explore the desert.
Dubai’s desert offers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the beauty of the de-sert.
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing retreat, the desert has some-thing for everyone. Finally, if you’re looking for some culture and history, Dubai is the perfect desti-nation.
From the majestic Jumeirah Mosque to the exotic Bastakiya, there’s something for everyone in Dubai.
Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s
rich culture or take part in an exciting cultural experi-ence, you’ll be sure to fnd something to suit your needs. With its stunning beaches, world-class shopping, and vibrant nightlife, Dubai is the ultimate destination for a luxurious holiday. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure, a relaxing retreat, or a cultural experience, Dubai has something for everyone. So, why not start planning your dream holiday in Dubai today?
What to do: Dubai is an exciting and vibrant city flled with amazing activities to explore. From shopping to sight-seeing, there’s something for everyone in this cosmopolitan city. Whether you’re a tourist looking for a fun-flled vacation or just a local looking for something different to do, here are some of the top things to do near Dubai.
Go on a Desert Safari: One of the most popular activities to do near Dubai is to go on a Desert Safari. This is a great way to experience the true beauty of the Arabian desert. From dune bashing to sand boarding, there’s some-thing for everyone. You can even opt for the traditional Bedouin style camp where you can enjoy delicious food, drinks, and entertainment.
Visit Dubai’s Top Attractions: Dubai is full of attractions worth visiting. Start your journey at the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. From there, you can visit the Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping mall. Make sure to take a ride on the Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. Explore the souks and markets
of the old city and take a picture of the traditional architecture of the Dubai Creek.
Shop Till You Drop: Dubai is a shopper’s paradise. From traditional souks to modern shopping malls, you can fnd every-thing here. If you’re looking for luxury items, head to the Gold Souk, the world’s largest gold market. You can also visit the Dubai Mall, where you can fnd designer brands and high-end stores. For those looking for something more traditional, visit the spice souk or the textile souk.
Explore the Beaches: Dubai has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an adventurous water sport, you’ll fnd it here. Kite Beach is a great spot for kite surfng and windsurfng, while Jumeirah Beach is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or sunbathing. You can also enjoy a variety of water sports activities and beach clubs.
Visit the Palm Islands: The Palm Islands are a must-see for anyone visiting Dubai. These islands are man-made and are home to some of the world’s most luxurious resorts. Explore the Island of Dreams, which is home to the Atlantis Hotel, or take a ride on the monorail at the Palm Jumeirah. You can also take a boat ride around the Palm Islands and get a glimpse of the amazing architecture.
Go on a Wildlife Safari: For those looking to explore the wildlife of Dubai, a wildlife safari is the perfect way to do it. Head to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and explore the desert on the back of a camel
or horse. You can also visit the Dubai Zoo and Aquarium, where you can view some of the most exotic animals in the world.
Experience the Local Culture: No trip to Dubai is complete without experiencing the city’s unique culture and traditions. Head to the Bastakiya district, where you can explore the city’s traditional architecture
and culture. You can also visit the Heritage and Diving Village, where you can learn about the city’s traditional diving techniques. These are just some of the things to do near Dubai. From shopping to wildlife safaris, there’s some-thing for everyone in this vibrant city. So, whether you’re a tourist or a local, make sure to take some time to explore the city and experience all that it has to offer.
Experience a weekend getaway on the Tweed Coast that transports you and your loved one to another world. With in room spa treatments, fabulous food & drink, gorgeous surrounds and much more. Our Indian Palace will delight you both!
Two self-contained luxury suites are available – perfect match for a romantic getaway.
Enjoy
Our
suite is one of the ultimate romantic getaways in NSW. 220m2 of absolute luxury.
RICHMOND Valley Council’s new Community Strategic Plan (CSP) sets an ambitious growth agenda for 2040, including more people, housing, jobs and green spaces.
It also sets key directions to ensure our communities are sustainable, that we protect our environment and use our natural resources wisely.
By 2040, the Richmond Valley’s population is expected to grow by 4000, creating some 2000 extra employment opportunities, including 600 direct jobs from the Regional Job Precinct. There is also a plan to unlock flood-safe lands with room for 2000 new homes.
General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said the new CSP sets a pathway for steady, responsible growth in the Richmond Valley, which would provide muchneeded homes for local families, more jobs for young people and more services and facilities for our towns and villages.
“There are many
exciting initiatives ahead in the next 20 years as we finish the major works we’ve begun and open new opportunities for our Valley,” Mr Macdonald said.
“We will deliver our plans to secure long-term water supplies, provide new and upgraded water and sewage infrastructure and enhanced community facilities across the entire Valley to support the more than 2000 new homes which can be built on flood-safe land.”
Mayor Robert Mustow said the preceding natural disasters challenged and redefined the way we lived but did not redefine our sense of community and the values we share.
Cr Mustow said in the first long year after the flood, Council worked with its community to rebuild the Valley, which now stood on the threshold of change and opportunities.
“Council’s focus remains on continuing to build back better after the floods, while harnessing new opportunities to grow and diversify our economy and provide much-needed housing for our community,” he said
Council has developed four key directions for its future plans based on the feedback it received from the community consultation program.
1. Strengthening our role in the region
This direction is based on the Richmond Valley Growth Management Strategy, recently adopted by Council, and the remaining actions of the Rebuilding the Richmond Valley Recovery Plan. It also includes strategies from the Key Directions in Economic Development paper recently presented to the local business community for consultation. The direction focuses on building back better after the floods, identifying opportunities for our community to grow, strengthening our economy, and providing more housing, jobs and services.
2. Creating great places to live This direction is based on consultation with the community, including our two community surveys and the community online ideas board. It focuses on creating vibrant, liveable, and safe communities –providing opportunities to learn, create and celebrate, enhancing our town centres and retail precincts and ensuring our parks, playgrounds, sports fields and community facilities are well maintained. It also looks at strategies to adapt to a changing
climate and build resilience against future natural disasters.
3. Protecting our unique environment This direction is based on our Sustainable Communities Strategy, recently adopted by Council after community consultation. It focuses on preserving our native bushland and biodiversity, maintaining healthy rivers, beaches, and waterways, and helping our Valley transition to a circular economy in the way we manage our future resources.
4. Delivering for our community This direction focuses on the role Richmond Valley Council will play in helping to deliver this plan. It includes Council’s civic leadership in engaging with and advocating for our community, as well as our responsibilities for managing community resources and providing great service.
Mr Macdonald said completion of the Draft Community Strategic Plan and Delivery Program marked another important milestone in the Richmond Valley’s flood recovery, as these documents set in place long-term strategies for the community to grow
and prosper.
“The CSP, together with other key strategic plans, such as the Richmond Valley Growth Management Strategy and Sustainable Communities Strategy, has created the framework for the objectives, strategies and actions that will help to deliver Council’s goals and priorities,” he said.
The Draft Community Strategic Plan and Delivery Program, along with the Draft Operational Plan 20232024 (including Draft Financial Estimates 2023-2027), the Draft Long Term Financial Plan 2023-2033 and Draft Revenue Policy 2023-2024, are on public exhibition for comment until 4pm, Wednesday 14 June.
Any person may make a written submission during the exhibition period by sending it to Richmond Valley Council by: Posting to Locked Bag 10 Casino NSW 2470 Emailing council@ richmondvalley.nsw.gov. au Hand delivery at either of Council’s Customer Service Centres in Casino or Evans Head Online submission – by completing an online submission form via Council’s website.
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Featuring Machinery & Farm Equipment
John Deere 5303 4WD Tractor with front end loader & bucket in excellent condition (65hp)
Howard EHD E Series 6 foot cut slasher
Polaris Ranger Diesel 257 hours in as new condition
Rover Mini Rider ride on lawn mower near new condition
Winchester 2 horse float, registered, dividers, awning, near new tyre's Silvan PTO 400ltr spray with 200m hose
Yamaha Timberwolf 2WD quad bike
Stihl MS 311 Chainsaw, Stihl 034 Chainsaw with Atom attachment
2 dog kennels - 1 x 2 bay kennel and 1 x 3 bay kennel
Large number of hand tools - hoes, axes, spades etc.
Various Saddlery - Bert Kelly saddle fully mounted, bridles, bits, spurs, horse rugs, whips, boxes and boxes of horse shoes
Fisher & Paykel 8.5kg Top loader washing machine, 2 bedroom suites, Iron bed, 4 single bed mattresses, Numerous cabinets, Desk, TV & DVD player, antiques and much much more
Bidding card system will apply, light refreshments available, photos on our website
Terms strictly Cash or Cheque on the day - NO Eftpos NO Internet - Very little phone service
NRLX MARKET REPORT
WEEK ENDING FRIDAY 19TH OF MAY
Agents yarded a total of 516 head at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange regular prime sale on Wednesday 17 May. Young cattle and cows were well supplied in a mixed quality line up of cattle. The largest percentage of young cattle consisted mainly of vealers and weaners. Most of the young cattle went to restockers in a market that was frm to a cheaper trend, depending on quality and breed.
HAROLD CURRY 02 6736 1344
TENTERFIELD
MARKET REPORT
SALE DATE: 15.05.2023
NUMBER YARDED: 246
Numbers decreased this week with a total yarding of 246 head, with the market following a cheaper trend in line with last week’s markets. A small yarding of
MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT
Agents today yarded a rain affected yarding of 1695 head, drawn from the usual areas the yarding had a mix of light , trade and export weights available. The market was on a par with last week with the heavy end of the lambs and mutton frmer, whilst the light trade and restocker lambs and sheep were slightly easier. Lambs topped at $178 to average $127.70($1down), hoggets topped at $115 to average $63.04($30down), ewes topped at $120 to average $77.46($19up), wethers topped at $120 to average $78.21 ($12down), rams topped at $210 to average $49.93($47down), lamb rams topped at $113 to average $73.25($3down). The sale average of $115.42 was $9/head dearer than last sale.
Gooroo Grazing sold Dorper lambs 51.2kg to Warwick Meats for $169, Dorset x lambs 55kg to Eversons for $150, ewes to Thomas Foods for $100
Banaba Past Co sold Dorper lambs 59kg to Eversons for $178, 46.8kg to GR Prime for $143.50
Rory & Kathy Frost sold Dorper lambs 46.5kg to Leslie Lamb for $159.50
Vermont Past Co sold Dorset x lambs 51kg to
Cow prices saw a drop on last week averaging 186c/ kg and reaching a top price of 230c/kg. Heifer prices were easier with lighter stock up to 250kg averaging 217c/kg and topping their category at 254c/kg. Heavier heifers over 250kg averaged 237c/kg and reached a top of 300c/kg.
Bull prices were marginally stronger with 13 head sold averaging 221c/kg and 809kg. Steer prices were dearer with lighter stock up to 250kg averaging 326c/kg and reaching a top of 394c/kg. Heavier steers over 250kg averaged 307c/kg and topped their market at 362c/kg. A small number of bullocks sold on the day averaged 267c/kg and reached a top of
steers reached 340.2 cents while bullocks topped at 191.2 cents.
In the cow section heavy weights sold to 200 cents, medium weights reached 186.2 cents, while light cows topped at 150 cents, heifers sold to 250 cents. In the trade section steers topped at 355.2 cents, whilst the heifer portion reached 320 cents, both returning to the paddock. The yarding of bulls sold to 185.2 cents.
TOP PRICES
Eversons for $155
Stephen & Fran Thompson sold Dorset x lambs 53kg to Eversons for $165
Lawrence Springborg sold Dorper lambs 52.3kg to Leslie Lamb for $169
Melrose Grazing sold Dorper x lambs 60kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $170, 45kg to Grants Quality Meats for $145, 25kg ram lambs to Highchester Meats for $65, rams to GR Prime for $75
Andrew Finley sold Aussie White lambs 47kg to GR Prime for $154, 47kg to Eversons for $148, 46kg to Warwick Meats for $144 and GR Prime for $141
Geoff & Andrea Fearby sold Merino wethers to Thomas Foods for $87, to Eversons for $50
Maichael Wright sold Aussie White ewes to Thomas Foods for $100
Robert & Lisa Sylvester sold Merino ewes 4th 51kg to Eversons for $86, older ewes to Thomas Foods for $70
LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK WEEK ENDING 19/05/2023
Rain interrupted the selling of livestock throughout this week as good falls were in most areas which had a lower number yarded for the weekly sales. Cattle numbers hit 715 head with the market frm on last week’s rates, Sheep and lambs saw an
270c/kg.
Ray White Rural held a store sale at the NRLX on Friday 19 May with 428 head going under the hammer. Steers topped their category at 370c/kg and averaged 313c/kg and 255kg whilst heifers reached a top of 264c/kg and averaged 239c/kg and 229kg. Cows reached a top price of $780 whilst cows & calves topped their market at $2,320. PTIC heifers reached a top of $1,310.
Ramsey & Bulmer and T&W McCormack will hold a store sale at the NRLX on Friday 2 June. Bookings are welcome!
BULLOCKS: CL Wilcox $1467.75
STEERS: Evelyn Ryan $1632.00
COWS: MR Hutchings $1326.00
HEIFERS: MR Hutchings $1340.00
YEARLINGS: Ballogie $1100.00
VEALERS WP & JM Condric $1061.33
BULLS: Darryl McCarthy Building Co $1953.86
NEXT SALE: 29th May 2023, 9:00am Start
elevation in value in the heavy end of both Mutton and Lambs. Pork and Poultry numbers and values remained the same.
Vealer steers av 356.1c/kg topping at 396.2c/kg or $868.32 to $1221.00
Vealer heifers av 264.6c/kg topping at $346.2c/kg or $596.15 to $1193.25
Feeder steers av 324.4c/kg topping at 367.2c/kg or $1294.14 to $1611.61
Feeder heifers av 261c/kg topping at 288.2c/kg or $901.85 to $1141.23
Yearling steers av 336c/kg topping at 372.2c/kg or $1027.84 to $1530.54
Yearling heifers av 282.6c/kg topping at 342.2c/kg or $894.66 to $1368.80
Steers av 298.3c/kg topping at 374.2c/kg or $1632.97 to $1947.04
Heifers av 262.3c/kg topping at 299.2c/kg or $1136.88 to $1805.49
Cows av 190.9c/kg topping at 234.2c/kg or $982.18 to $1850.18
Bulls av 248.4c/kg topping at 304.2c/kg or $953.55 to $2481.36
Lambs topped at $178 to av $127.70($1down)
Hoggets topped at $115 to av $63.04($30down)
Ewes topped at $120 to av $77.46($19up)
Wethers topped at $120 to av $78.21($12down)
Rams topped at $210 to av $49.93($47down)
Wattle Grove Speckle Park is set to host its second annual Fire & Ice Sale at the Cattle Complex in Toowoomba Showgrounds at 3pm on the 3rd June. On offer will be 40 purebred Speckle Park females, 30 Speckle Park cross heifers, and exclusive embryo packages.
Speckle Park are continuing to gain traction in the beef cattle market and are well known for their distinctive black and white coats, but it is what’s underneath the coat that producers
Dale and Belinda Humphries, Wattle Grove Speckle Park are more interested in.
“They are great to look at for sure but they are so much more than just a pretty coat.” Belinda Humphries
“Their ability to marble off grass, their doability, weight gains, hardiness, maternal traits and carcass attributes are the real selling points.”
“It really is the beef underneath that puts Speckle Park ahead of the competition.”
The stud is known for breeding moderateframed, structurally correct, easy doing, and highly maternal females. The upcoming Fire & Ice Sale will showcase the strength of their cow herd and the impressive genetics they have on offer.
“We have been breeding Speckle Park since they were introduced to Australia in 2008 and we stand by our motto great cattle, great people, and good times. Our sales are more like events. We really try to ensure everyone has a great time and goes home with the perfect cattle for their program.”
“Speckle Park are suited to large or small producers; they are adaptable to any environment and climate. They really do tick all the boxes for beef cattle breeders.”
The Fire & Ice Sale will take place on the 3rd of June with the Auction starting at 3pm. Online bidding is available through Auctions Plus and Elite Livestock Auctions.
“We love helping new
breeders get started in Speckle Park and sharing in their success.”
“This will be a fully catered event with live entertainment and of course high quality Speckle Park females and genetics. It’s defnitely worth making the trip north for. People can view the catalogue on our website www. wattlegrovespecklepark. com.au or get in touch if they need more information.”
The Future Drought Fund’s Science to Practice Forum is on again from 6-8 June, and the program is available now.
The 3-day forum is a showcase of the innovative tools and practices Australian farmers and communities are using to build drought resilience and a sustainable agricultural sector.
Deputy Secretary of Agriculture and Food Policy and Research, Rosemary Deininger, says that the online forum will also showcase the work of the Future Drought Fund’s 8 Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hubs located around the country.
“The Science to Practice Forum is an opportunity
to collaborate and network with likeminded people committed to growing a sustainable agricultural sector,” Ms Deininger said.
“It also demonstrates how integral the implementation of the Future Drought Fund, and its $100 million dollar a year investment, is performing right across the country.
“Hearing the stories of how Australian farmers and communities are using innovative tools and practices to build drought resilience can infuence the decision making of both farmers and policy makers.”
This year’s forum will be hosted by Pip Courtney, awardwinning journalist and host of ABC’s Landline, and features keynote
speakers, presentations, panel talks, video content and First Nations perspectives from right across the country, with each day focussed on a particular theme:
• Tuesday 6 June: Research and development
• Wednesday 7 June: Farmers and Agricultural Advisors
• Thursday 8 June: Community and policy
View the 2023 Science to Practice Forum’s full program and register
for the free event here , or visit the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry website for more information.
Farmers say scrapping Dungowan Dam is a short-sighted move that will limit future food production.
State Water Minister Rose Jackson announced Dungowan Dam would not proceed in the wake of the federal budget, saying it would save
taxpayers $632 million.
But NSW Farmers Tamworth Branch chair Kevin Tongue said it was a bad decision that would have long-lasting impacts on the region.
“We grow a lot of food and fbre in this region and we’ve got incredible
soil, but you can’t grow anything without water,” Mr Tongue said.
“Having this dam would have enabled farmers to grow more, which in turn would have driven the regional and state economy and given consumers more food and fbre.
“I think this is really short-sighted given the enormous potential for agriculture and the increasing need for our products as the global population grows.”
Mr Tongue said locals were also deeply concerned about future water security given
predictions of a return to El Nino.
“While the Minister is talking about strategies to improve water security, we’re living with the memories of the last drought,” he said.
“We nearly ran out of water in Tamworth
during the last drought and everyone agreed we needed to build more dams to make sure that didn’t happen again.
“Without water farming communities will perish, and I am deeply concerned about what the long-term impact of this decision will be.”
SBS VICELAND, 9.40pm
FRIDAY
SMOTHER
ABC, 8.30pm
Awash with the moody landscapes of seaside County Clare and the turmoil of the Ahern family, this unabashedly over-the-top Irish drama returns for its third and nal season. After last season’s cli anger, viewers are advised to hang onto to their weatherproof hats: a wave of red herrings and jolting surprises are forecast. Starring a erce Dervla Kirwan (above) as the family matriarch Val, this season takes an unexpected turn. In tonight’s opener, the Ahern clan gathers for Val’s brisk remarriage. Grace (Seána Kerslake) returns to London and Finn (Dean Fagan) is incensed about his ordeal, despite the Ahern family’s candour.
6.00 The Drum. Analysis of the day’s news.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Josh Byrne meets a productive duo.
8.30 Smother. (Return, Mals) After the turmoil and Finn’s subsequent injuries, Grace returns to London.
9.25 Mayfair Witches. (Masv)
At Deirdre’s funeral, Rowan is plunged into the world of the infamous Mayfair family.
10.10 Interview With The Vampire. (Malnsv) Louis and Lestat’s lives change.
10.50 ABC Late News. Coverage of the day’s events.
11.05 The Split. (Mals, R) Hannah’s lives collide.
12.05 Harrow. (Mav, R)
1.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
It’s the travel show that purposefully takes a di erent tack. Fronted by British comedian Joe Lycett – who has taken over Richard Ayoade’s (pictured) former role like a duck to water – it’s basically a vehicle for interesting scenery, humorous asides and quirky facts as Lycett accompanies fellow comedians on laconic trips around the globe. Tonight, Stephen Mangan (The Split sized and very relaxed foray into sunny Rio de Janeiro. Armed with sunglasses and board shorts, the duo wax lyrical as they sip coconut cocktails, sample local fruit and check out iconic sights such as Christ the Redeemer.
Margolyes and Alan Cumming. Unfailingly funny and admirably honest, the duo came together to explore the delights and quirks of their native land in a motorhome during the pandemic. In this four-part follow-up, premiering tonight, Miriam and Alan are still enamoured by Scotland, but they also expand their horizons to include California. They are like kids in a candy shop, riding the “Hogwarts Express” steam train and visiting the Cairngorms, with ordained minister Alan even conducting an LGBTQIA+ wedding. It’s a joyous, personal take on the travelogue genre.
6.00 NBN News.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Building The Impossible.
8.30 Robson Green’s British Adventure: The Hebrides And The Dee. (PG) Part 4 of 4.
9.25 Legends Of The Pharaohs: Curse Of The Pyramids. (Ms, R) A look at the Pharaoh Sneferu.
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (MA15+a)
11.45 Vienna Blood. (MA15+a, R)
3.25 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.25 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 7News Local.
6.30 7News @ 6:30.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Adam Dovile makes a modern, oating-style vanity. Karen Martini bakes a carrot, gruyere and herb loaf.
8.30 MOVIE: Spider-Man: Far From Home. (2019, Mv, R) After Peter Parker, in his identity as Spider-Man, nds himself facing four destructive elemental monsters while on holiday in Europe, he receives help from a mysterious new hero called Mysterio. Tom Holland, Jake Gyllenhaal, Zendaya.
11.00 To Be Advised.
12.00 MOVIE: Ablaze. (2019, Mal, R) A re occurs in a Christchurch department store. Hannah Marshall, Daniel Watterson.
2.00 Home Shopping.
7.00 A Current A air.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 13. Parramatta Eels v North Queensland Cowboys. From CommBank Stadium, Sydney.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Parramatta Eels versus North Queensland Cowboys match, with news and analysis.
10.40 MOVIE: Triple 9. (2016, MA15+lv, R) An unsuspecting rookie foils a heist. Casey A eck, Anthony Mackie.
12.45 Tipping Point. (PG, R) Hosted by Ben Shephard.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Postcards. (PG, R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.
7.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGal) Chappo goes to rescue a father and daughter and gets assistance from an unlikely source.
8.30 To Be Advised.
9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (PGa, R) Graham Norton is joined on the red couch by actors Daniel Craig and Sir Ian McKellen, presenter Clive Myrie, and comedian John Bishop. Singer-songwriter Charlie Puth performs his song Loser
11.30 The Project. (R) The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.
12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)
1.30 Home Shopping. (R)
The Albanese Labor Government will invest $236 million over 10 years to establish a national, reliable food warning network. Communities, emergency services and businesses need reliable access to food forecasts and warnings, to help them prepare and respond to fooding events. This investment will improve reliability and consistency of food data, forecasts and warnings.
The funding will be used to purchase and upgrade high priority food gauges that are currently owned by local, state and territory governments in food-prone areas. In many cases these are run down and poorly maintained.
Based on the advice of the Bureau of Meteorology, work in Queensland will be prioritised. This is due to
the high food risk to the community in Australia’s most disaster-prone state and the Queensland Government’s prior commitment to share the cost of ongoing operations of the food gauge network.
This funding will ensure high priority catchment upgrades can begin in every state and territory across Australia, if successful cost sharing arrangements are agreed to.
Over a number of years, local and state governments have been calling for a national solution to address critical, long-standing risks in Australia’s food gauge network.
Dating as far back as 2015, studies have warned that the patchwork food gauge network would increase risk during foods. Most recently, following the devastating 2022
food season, multiple independent inquiries called upon the Federal Government to consolidate, upgrade and assume responsibility for ongoing maintenance of the food network.
The inquiries identifed several, terrifying examples where communities were left uninformed or unprepared during the foods because of broken or outdated food gauges.
The Labor Government is fxing this, after years of Coalition neglect.
The Flood Warning Infrastructure Network builds upon the work the Albanese Government is doing to ensure Australia is better prepared for future disasters. This includes new Budget commitments to overhaul how warning messages are delivered to residents during disasters through the National Messaging System (NMS), as well
as ongoing investment in resilience and mitigation measures that will keep communities safer from disasters, through the Disaster Ready Fund. Comments attributable to the Minister for the Environment Tanya Plibersek:
Severe weather events, including foods, are becoming more extreme and more frequent. The people of Queensland and Northern NSW especially know that from recent tragic experience.
When these events occur, people need access to the best available information, in real time. Reliable food warnings
will help Australians prepare for moments of extreme weather. It will keep people safer as they happen. And being better prepared will, when the water recedes, help reduce the fnancial impact of fooding on families and businesses.
Comments attributable to the Minister for Emergency Management Murray
Watt: We know that reliable early warnings are critical to keep people safe, and limit the physical impacts and costs of food events. The Albanese Government will ensure that the physical
infrastructure used to gauge foods in high priority food areas is reliable and up to scratch.
We’ve seen communities hit by terrible disasters in recent years, and this investment will mean people are given time to protect themselves, their property and their land. Over several terrible food seasons, the Coalition ignored calls to show national leadership and upgrade and maintain food gauges in high-risk communities. The Albanese Government have heard the calls for a national solution and that is what we are delivering.
The NSW and Australian Labor Governments should step up and provide fnancial support to the struggling Clarence River prawn industry, the new MP for Clarence, Richie Williamson says.
In an impassioned Private Member’s Statement in the NSW Parliament last week, Mr Williamson said the local prawn industry was suffering great stress
through no fault of its own.
“For the life of me, I cannot understand why any government would let uncooked green prawns into this country,” Mr Williamson told the Legislative Assembly.
He said the Clarence River Fishermen’s Cooperative had not been eligible for any grants despite the ravages of fres, foods,
disease, and biosecurity control orders.
“The industry is in crisis and needs the full support of the New South Wales State Government and the Albanese Federal Government combined.”
Mr Williamson said the frst step should be to offer relief by way of a waiver on Crown lease fees, a policy lever that has been used previously.
“There are lives well and truly at stake. This is a matter of urgency,” Mr Williamson concluded.
A transcript of Mr Williamson’s Private Member’s Statement can be viewed herehttps://www. parliament.nsw.gov. au/Hansard/Pages/ HansardResult.aspx#/ docid/HANSARD1323879322-130400/ link/2292
Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has called for applications for two non-executive director positions on its board.
MLA’s board currently comprises nine directors, including eight nonexecutive directors and the managing director. The MLA Board
provides strategic guidance and effective oversight of the management and performance of MLA in delivering its strategy. The Board operates under mature corporate governance and risk management frameworks to ensure producer levies, government matching dollars and
partner funds are invested effectively and in the right areas to ensure the continuing prosperity of the Australian red meat and livestock industry. Candidates with experience and extensive commercial skills in either of the following areas are encouraged to apply:
• Australian beef production with experience in modern northern production systems, pasture management, genetics and nutrition. Knowledge of RD&E and emerging technologies will be well regarded.
• Australian sheepmeat production with
experience in modern production systems, pasture management, genetics and nutrition. Knowledge of RD&E and emerging technologies will be well regarded.
Directors are nominated through the selection committee and appointed by members at MLA annual general meetings
for a three-year term, with retiring directors able to nominate for reelection.
Applications for the current round close on Sunday, June 11. For an information pack visit: www.mla.com.au/ directorguidelines or call (02) 9631 1500.
Australia’s beef sector is set for a return to “more normal” market conditions in the season ahead, after a recent extraordinary period marked by record prices levels and volatility, according to Rabobank’s Australian Beef Seasonal Outlook 2023
But while prices are projected to track in a narrower range – at close to current levels –through the year, this is still “historically high’ and expectations are that beef producer margins will remains strong, the agribusiness banking specialist says.
And the lower prices and resulting market stability will have “an upside”, according to report author Rabobank senior animal protein analyst Angus Gidley-Baird, with cheaper cattle improving Australia’s competitive position in export markets and less price volatility allowing supply chains to rebalance.
“While high cattle prices in recent times have been great for producers selling cattle, this legacy remains and we are now working our way through some very expensive cattle in much softer consumer markets,” he said. “A more stable price range for 2023 will allow the supply chain to rebalance, once these expensive cattle are cleared.
“Cattle prices have returned to more average levels, making Australian beef competitive again and creating a more sustainable market for everyone in the supply chain.”
This price stability also provides an ideal opportunity for cattle producers to plan for the future.
“This greater stability, along with the expectation that farm profts will still be strong, also provides an ideal time to plan and
prepare for the future,”
Mr Gidley-Baird said.
“And with a number of wetter seasons behind us, there is increased likelihood of a dry season ahead, so now is the best time to prepare for future, less favourable years.”
Prices
The bank forecast prices to remain at levels experienced in April through the remainder of the season as cattle supplies build and producer demand declines.
“We are projecting prices will be more ‘normal’ in 2023, rather than continuing the dramatic fuctuations seen over the past three years,” Mr Gidley-Baird said.
“The record cattle prices of early 2022 could not last forever. Now, after a signifcant contraction, we believe the current prices are more in balance with market fundamentals and we expect cattle prices to hover in a relatively narrow band around current levels for 2023.”
The bank expects the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) to be in the range of AUc 700 to AUc 800/kg cwt.
“If this range is maintained, the average EYCI for 2023 will be 30 per cent below the 2022 average,” Mr Gidley-Baird said. The bank expects other classes of cattle to experience a similar price trend. “Although the price spread between restocking cattle and fnished cattle will narrow as lower producer demand will see the premium for young stock decline,” he said.
Although cattle prices are forecast to remain at lower levels in 2023 –and costs are projected to stay steady – Australian beef producer margins will likely remain strong in 2023 and into 2024, the report says.
Cattle slaughter and beef production are both expected to rise in 2023, the Rabobank Outlook says.
Mr Gidley-Baird said “after the lowest cattle slaughter in 37 years”, 2023 would see a strong lift in slaughter volumes, as cattle numbers grow with progeny from successive years of herd rebuilding starting to fow on to the market.
The bank expects slaughter numbers will rise by 16 per cent in 2023 (to just under seven million head), with a further rise in 2024.
However, production volumes are only forecast to rise by seven per cent (to just over two million tonnes), refecting a greater presence of grass-fed cattle in the system and lighter slaughter weights. This would see production volumes still nine per cent below the 10-year average, Mr Gidley-Baird said.
Numbers of cattle on feed are expected to rise slowly, but stronger demand for feeder cattle is not expected until the second half of 2023.
Australia’s cattle breeding herd is “almost back to normal”, the report says.
“We believe that most operators – with the
exception of some in Queensland and northern Australia – now have close-to-normal breeding numbers,” Mr GidleyBaird said.
And this will see less cattle trading on the market.
“The past couple of years of high cattle prices and favourable seasonal conditions have encouraged producers to trade more cattle than usual, rather than build breeding stock,” he said. “Now, with lower cattle prices, drier seasonal conditions and the recovery of breeding numbers, we expect producers will revert to previous practices and reduce the level of trading.”
The report forecasts Australian per capita consumption of beef to fall in 2023 – by 1.6 per cent – after increasing in 2022 to an average of 23.8 kilograms per person per year, despite the high retail prices for beef over the past two years.
Adjusting for population growth, this would see domestic consumption this year increase by one per cent in 2023, the report said.
Beef exports, however, are expected to rise by
10 per cent, driven by the projected production growth.
Mr Gidley-Baird said softening consumer demand for beef in Japan and South Korea in 2023 “leads us to expect little growth in those markets”.
But, the US – which has declining beef production and a reasonably-strong consumer market –provides “possibly the more likely opportunities for export growth”. Competition from other proteins would, however, be strong, he said. China also provides export growth opportunities, following the relaxation of Covid restrictions which should support a recovery in beef demand in the foodservice channel.
“Although this may be offset by the weaker Chinese economy and also competition from rising Brazilian volumes,” Mr GidleyBaird said.
For live cattle exports, the report says, the number of cattle available will lift in 2023, following an increase in the breeding inventory.
“Numbers are projected to lift 14 per cent to just over 700,000 head, after dropping to the lowest level in 17 years in
2022,” Mr Gidley-Baird said.
Indonesia is set to remain the main destination for live exports, with volumes to Vietnam having “dropped dramatically” (by 80 per cent) since 2020, and not much recovery expected in that market.
Global markets
Global beef markets are slowly building momentum, the report says.
“Overall, challenging economic conditions and slower consumer demand will be countered by shrinking US beef supplies and recovering Chinese foodservice,” Mr GidleyBaird said.
Rabobank expects global beef production to remain relatively static in 2023.
Growth in Australia and Brazil will be offset by a contraction in the US, the report says.
“Higher US beef prices driven by a contraction in US production are expected to support global beef prices, although the real impact is not expected until later in the year, more likely 2024 and 2025” Mr Gidley-Baird said. “This should generate much more favourable trading conditions for Australian suppliers.”
Stiff penalties and refusal of entry into Australia await those who attempt to avoid our border biosecurity measures.
On Sunday 7 May 2023, biosecurity offcers conducted an inspection on an incoming passenger at Perth International Airport who had declared nothing on their incoming passenger card.
Upon inspection, biosecurity offcers found the passenger had over 1.8kg of pork sausage and 360g of donkey glue, with both products posing a huge biosecurity risk.
Biosecurity offcers issued the passenger with a $3,300 infringement notice and referred the passenger to the Australian Border Force for visa cancellation.
Department Secretary and Australia’s Director of Biosecurity, Andrew Metcalfe AO said our biosecurity offcers are working tirelessly to ensure that we keep foot and mouth and other diseases out of our country – everyone entering Australia needs to remember this.
“Our message is loud and clear – if you are in doubt, declare your items. It’s the safest option. We will be checking and we are grateful that the vast majority of travellers do the right thing” Secretary Metcalfe said.
“The consequences of attempting to circumvent our biosecurity laws are severe. In this case the visitor was hit with a large infringement notice and turned around at the airport – so they don’t even get to experience Australia.”
Deputy Secretary, Biosecurity and Compliance Group, Dr Chris Locke said that travellers who have their visa cancelled are removed from Australia
on the earliest available fight and can face an exclusion period of three years before they are able to reapply for a visa.
“Not only has this passenger been turned around at the border and has wasted a trip –they have been given an infringement of $3,300 for intentionally trying to circumvent our biosecurity laws, said Dr Locke.
“The threat of foot
and mouth disease and lumpy skin disease haven’t gone away - the threats that we face at our borders are real and the work our biosecurity offcers do every day prevents these diseases and pests from coming into our country.”
Find out more about your responsibilities when travelling to Australia
Fast Facts:
• On 1 January this year, Australia
increased penalties for biosecurity breaches from $222 per penalty point to $275 per penalty point.
• Previously, a 12-point penalty infringement was $2664. It is now $3,300.
• Travellers who have their visa cancelled are removed from Australia on the earliest available fight and can face an exclusion period of 3
years before they are able to reapply for a visa.
• When travelling to Australia, know what you can bring in and always fll out your Incoming Passenger Card truthfully. Find out more about your responsibilities when travelling to Australia: www. agriculture.gov.au/ biosecurity-trade/ travelling/toaustralia.
The 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E is here!
After three and a half years of anticipation, Australians finally have the opportunity to reserve this controversial electric high-riding pony car. Ford Australia is accepting reservations from today, May 10, starting from 2:00pm AEST.
A $1000 deposit is required to secure your choice of the three Mach-E model variants available, which include the Select, Premium and GT. The entry-level 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E Select has a single-motor/rear-drive powertrain producing 198kW and 430Nm of torque, and a 71kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery that should provide for an estimated range of 470km.
The mid-series Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium (priced from $92,990 plus ORCs) has a single e-motor with a higher output of 216kW/430Nm and a longer estimated range of 600km from its larger 91kWh battery. At the top of the range is the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, priced at $108,990 plus ORCs. It features a dual-motor/all-wheel drive EV powertrain that delivers 358kW/860Nm and enables 0-100km/h acceleration in a claimed 3.7 seconds. The GT also uses the larger 91kWh battery and carries a WLTP-verified range of 489km.
The only option listed
is prestige paint at $700 across the range. Equipment highlights on the entry-level Mach-E
seats (both front and rear), black headlining and multi-colour ambient lighting. The Mach-E
with charging stations mapped along the way, as well as real-time traffic monitoring and
Select include a 15.5inch infotainment screen (running Ford’s latest SYNC 4A operating system), a 360-degree camera, 10-speaker B&O sound system (including subwoofer), wireless phone charging, eightway electric front seat
GT has several unique elements including MagneRide active suspension, the trackoriented Untame Plus drive mode (adding to the Active, Whisper and Untame modes common to all models), Brembo Flexira performance
suggested routes (again, with battery charge status and public recharging points factored in).
Australian customers are required to use Ford’s online reservation portal to purchase the Mustang Mach-E; dealers are not taking orders, but customers will be required to select a preferred dealership as part of the process.
adjustment and Black Onyx Sensico seats with artificial leather trim across all five positions. Exterior features include 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof and unconventional E-Latch door handles.
The Mach-E Premium adds LED projector headlights, higher-grade scuff plates and pedals, red contrast stitching to the Black Onyx Sensico
braking package and 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli tyres.
The GT’s cabin includes heavily bolstered Ford Performance front seats, trimmed in a soft-touch faux leather material. All models have access to the FordPass app which enables a variety of specific EV connected services, such as destination planning
The 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E is an exciting and innovative addition to the automotive market. It provides a high-performance, all-electric vehicle with a range of features that caters to all budgets and lifestyles. With its advanced powertrain, range of features, and its relatively affordable price tag, the 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E is sure to be a hit with Australians.
How much does the 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E cost?
Select – $79,990
Premium – $92,990
GT – $108,990
* Prices exclude on-road costs
The ffth-generation Toyota Prius, which made its debut in the United States and Japan, is unlikely to make a return to Australian showrooms.
Despite its new body, adoption of Toyota’s fagship model technology and a range of more powerful and effcient hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, low sales numbers from previous years are disinclined to make a return feasible.
Approximately 35,000 of the 300,000 hybrid cars sold in Australia were Prius models, with their peak occurring in 2008. Nonetheless, in 2021, the number dropped to less than 100.
The 1.8-litre Prius, with its new 103kW hybrid power option, has the potential to match the 2023 Corolla Hybrid it shares its drivetrain with, in addition to a 2.0-litre hybrid system to provide a more powerful 144kW. Both of these options come with the potential for front or all-wheel
drive depending on the market. Toyota has not provided any fuel economy fgures yet, though Toyota Global Design Boss Simon Humphreys has informed viewers of the car’s livestream that it will be the most effcient model in its class. For the frst time, the 2.0-litre Prius plug-in hybrid offers increased power with a combined output of 164kW.
Its 13.6kWh battery pack has been relocated to the rear seats, thereby lowering the centre of gravity and allowing for
more boot space. With its 0-100km/h acceleration time estimated to be around 6.7 seconds, this
wide and 1420mm tall Prius rides on a 2750mm wheelbase, making this one 50mm shorter,
The car that was the forerunner of today’s petrol-electric hybrid technology is back in a whole new form; featuring a revamped exterior, upgraded technology, and increased power. Unfortunately, these updates won’t be available in Australia.
model will be one of the quickest and most powerful production Prius models ever built. Based off the current model’s architecture, the 4524mm long, 1782mm
22mm wider, 50mm lower and 50mm longer between the wheels than the outgoing car. With its sleeker fve-door hatchback, LED headlights, full-width LED
tail-light bar, and alloy wheels up to 19 inches in diameter, elements of Toyota’s BZ electric-car range are integrated into the design. Inside, there is a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen as the fagship model, as well as a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster ahead of the driver.
Interior features include cloth or synthetic leather trim depending on the model, dual-zone climate control, heated seating, ventilated seats, an ambient lighting system integrated into the
dashboard, USB-C ports, an electric parking brake, solar panels on the roof of the plug-in model and a panoramic sunroof.
Safety features for the Prius from Toyota’s Advanced Safety System consist of autonomous emergency braking, lanekeep assistance, adaptive cruise control and blindspot monitoring with rear cross-traffc alert. Additional features include automatic parking and a digital rear-view mirror, with some models having power sockets inside to allow external electric devices to be charged from the car battery. The 2023 Toyota Prius is due in Japanese showrooms before the end of this year in hybrid form, with the plug-in hybrid due mid next year. Toyota Australia, however, has no plans to introduce the new Prius to the market, with other vehicles such as the Yaris, Yaris Cross, Corolla, C-HR and Corolla Cross now substantially increasing the hybrid offering.
Max Crus is a Clarence Valley-based wine writer and Grape Expectations is now in its 26th year of publication. Find out more about Max or sign up for his weekly reviews and musings by visiting maxcrus.com.au
Now that we’ve got King Charles’ Coronoscopy, sorry, Coronation out of the way – thanks for that little gem, Aunt and Uncle - we can all get back to ignoring them until another one dies and maybe even think about establishing a head of our own state who isn’t determined by a battle back in 1066.
And what would happen then? How intriguing.
Nevertheless, who didn’t watch the medieval
Cook’s Lot Orange
‘Allotment No.1010’ Shiraz 2021, $25. Allotment 1010 sounds somewhat medieval making the WET tax on wine a suitable tithe for the Lord of the Manor or King Trev’. Too good a shiraz to waste on commoners. 9.4/10.
Cook’s Lot Orange
‘Allotment No.666’
spectacle, as Ms L. described it?
Who didn’t go all mistyeyed at the golden couple in the golden coach, a scene straight out of Golden Books.
Old blokes in funny gowns bejewelled with stuff stolen over the centuries chanting funny incantations as if that would help us believe God chose this bloke Charles and that spending £100million in doing so was taxpayer money well spent. Who
Pinot Gris 2022, $25. Not many bottles of this will go to superstitious and religious types, so an unlikely bevvy for a coronation but chances are they wouldn’t drink anyway. Their loss. An uncommonly characterful gris, with a fragrant flourish that invites you to have more, which you will.
could miss that?
However to be fair, it was sponsored by Sportsbet and the commercial stations ran ads throughout the service, taking bets and spruiking ‘Multis’, whatever they are, on how long Charlie III would reign.
So actually, that’s hardearned tax dollars going straight into gambling company coffers which is, um, pretty much business as usual.
Who didn’t marvel as Charles donned the giant cloak and glove before
9.4/10.
Taylor Made Clare Valley Coonawarra BDX Blend Cabernet, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc 2019, $25 . Real claret in the true sense of the word, just missing a little petit verdot to complete the blend, but it’s doing alright without it and pretty worthy red for
slipping on the ring Bilbo Baggins brought back from Mordor, all behind a screen of secrecy, which did seem somewhat superfuous given 40 million people were watching on telly.
Anyway, you would think now was a great time for Australia to ditch the funny old bloke with big ears as our head of state and get our own, but a republic is not the answer. We need the monarchy, if only as a tourist attraction and another gambling opportunity, so why not
the price. 9.2/10.
Taylors Clare Valley Masterstroke Cabernet Shiraz 2017, $60. Prestigious Parcels and Exceptional Regions boasts the label, which could be a nice catch phrase for Australia Post for a premium courier service. Each bottle a Masterstroke might be
choose our own?
No need for a war or a beheading to choose ours, we could just have a lottery with the winner perhaps allowed one passing of the baton to a chosen family member just to keep the silly entitlement thing going, a nod to tradition.
Imagine that?
“I now dub thee King Trevor of West Wyalong and Queen Sharon. The kids Princess Mikkaylah and Prince Brayden, could
pushing the envelope a bit, but it’s yummy cabernet with a lovely photo on the back label.
9.4/10.
Vickery Eden Valley Riesling (EVR 1203 ZMS) 2022, $24
That’s a lot for one label and even more for a wine itself. Loads of character and depth for a humble
Max Crusbecome the Duchess of Sylvania Waters and Duke of Woy Woy or something, all paid for by gambling advertising. We could even have an offcial wine sponsor, by appointment of course, and who better than Henschke, who have just released their latest Hill of Grace at $950 per bottle. How apt and a win-win except, chances are you will lose.
Meanwhile the rest of us could toast the new Aussie monarch with something more common :
riesling. Morish and embarrassingly easy to drink. 9.3/10.
Vickery Watervale Riesling (WVR 2802 CKBBS) 2022, $24. More bright, bitey, young riesling to lure you away from pinot gris, cheap chardonnay and coronations. Who could fail to be persuaded? 9.2/10.
Fund manager Cedar Pacifc has announced the launch of its frst build-to-rent (BTR) fund, with a $500 million equity raise. The fund will be seeded by two developments, one in Brisbane and one in Auckland, New Zealand, before targeting other Australian capital cities.
Established in 2015 by Luxembourg-based Pamoja Capital, Cedar Pacifc has a $2.5 billion portfolio of more than 10,000 beds across 18 assets in Australia and New Zealand, with an additional four assets in development.
To manage the equity raise, Cedar Pacifc has appointed Savills Capital Advisors. The project in Queensland is set to become the state government’s third pilot build-to-rent project, featuring 475 apartments, of which more than half will be eligible for governmentsubsidised rent. Essence Communities, a subsidiary of UniLodge, will manage the completed projects under a white-label agreement.
Cedar Pacifc CEO Bernard Armstrong said, “Affordable and professionally managed housing is key to a growing population,
fuelled by Millennials, older Gen Zs and the return of higher immigration numbers. We are passionate about creating positive investment opportunities with responsible social and environmental factors.” The launch of the fund follows the government’s announcement that the managed investment trust withholding tax rate for residential BTR developments will be halved from 30 per cent to 15 per cent for foreign investors in jurisdictions like Singapore, Canada and Japan. The changes, which will apply from 1 July 2024, are for
projects of 50 or more apartments made available for rent to the general public and retained under single ownership for at least 10 years before being sold. Greystar Real Estate Partners, Mirvac, Cadillac Fairview, Sentinel Real Estate Corporation, Tim Gurner and HESTA are all tapping into the Australian BTR market. Cedar Pacifc’s new BTR vehicle has a further nine assets totalling 3,500 units in its pipeline, including four with development approval. The fund manager plans to target assets in Sydney, Melbourne,
Canberra and Perth.
Savills Capital Advisors
Co-Head Joe Guilfoyle said, “We anticipate strong interest from institutional investors both in Australia but also internationally. We anticipate attractive risk-adjusted returns in the BTR sector in Australasia due to
forecast rental growth as the market matures over the next few years.” Overall, Cedar Pacifc’s BTR fund is set to revolutionize the Australian rental market, offering more accessible and professionally managed housing to meet the needs of a growing population.
By JEFFREY GIBBSOnline gambling is illegal in Australia under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) recently conducted an investigation into a website called CS:GO Roll, which was found to be offering online casino-style games with virtual in-game items called ‘skins’ as the currency.
Skins are virtual items that can be earned or
purchased in the popular online video game
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO). They are used for cosmetic purposes and can be traded on thirdparty platforms for real money.
In the case of CS:GO Roll, players could deposit skins in exchange for in-game coins to gamble on casino-style games. Winnings from the site were paid out in the form of skins, which could then be converted into real money.
ACMA Chair Nerida
O’Loughlin said the investigation highlighted the need for gambling sites to abide by Australian laws, regardless of the currency used.
“Providing casinostyle games online is prohibited in Australia when playing for money or something of value, whether that’s Australian dollars, cryptocurrency or in this case, online gaming skins,” O’Loughlin said. “Skins gambling
services are particularly concerning as they tap into a youth market and have the potential to convert gamers into gamblers.” As a result of the investigation, the website has been taken offine and its owner, Feral Holdings Limited, has been issued with a formal warning for contravening the Interactive Gambling Act.
The fndings of the ACMA investigation serve as a reminder of the importance of
regulating gambling sites in Australia. The authority is committed to creating a safe and responsible online gambling environment, one that is free from the potential dangers
posed by skins gambling services. It is essential that all gambling services in Australia abide by the law and refrain from providing casino-style games for real currency or virtual items.
By JEFFREY GIBBS
Australia’s consumer watchdog is taking action against social media infuencers who may be failing to disclose sponsored posts and advertising. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has received 150 tipoffs from consumers in response to its call-out asking for information, with most of these infuencers in the beauty, lifestyle, parenting, and fashion spaces.
The ACCC will be monitoring a range of social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, Facebook, and livestreaming
service Twitch, in the coming weeks. Both small and large-scale infuencers will be targeted, as even those with a lower following can build and maintain an authentic relationship with their audience, making it easier to hide their advertising posts. The ACCC is also taking into account
other parties such as advertisers, marketers, brands, and social media platforms for their role in facilitating misconduct.
ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb noted that the number of tip-offs is a refection of the community’s concern about the increasing number of manipulative marketing techniques on
social media. The sweep will also target other sectors where infuencer marketing is widespread, including fashion, beauty, cosmetics, food and beverage, travel, health and ftness, wellbeing, parenting, gaming, and technology. This follows the ACCC’s announcement of looking into businesses making misleading environmental claims and fake online reviews, with a report outlining the fndings to be released in the coming months. Gottlieb said it is important for social media infuencers to be clear about any commercial motivations behind their posts, including those that
are incentivised and presented as impartial but are not.
The ACCC will take action where consumers are at risk
of being misled or deceived, which could include compliance, education, and potential enforcement activities as appropriate.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is targeting websitse providing gambling services for Counter-Strike skins.BY JEFFREY GIBBS
The new movie
‘Renfeld’ is a modern retelling of the classic horror story of the same name. It follows the story of Renfeld, a man who is slowly being driven insane by his obsession with vampires. As his descent into madness progresses, he fnds himself in a life-or-death battle against the vampires and their master, Dracula. The movie is set in the present day and follows Renfeld’s journey as he struggles to come to terms with his own mental illness. Renfeld is portrayed as a sympathetic character, as he is struggling to understand what is happening to him and why he is being targeted by vampires.
His journey is one of selfdiscovery as he fghts to keep his sanity in the face of overwhelming terror and danger. The movie is well-crafted and thrilling, as Renfeld’s plight is explored in detail. The movie also features some excellent special effects and cinematography, making for a visually stunning experience. The atmosphere is tense and unsettling, as
Renfeld is constantly under threat from the vampires. The performances from the actors are also strong, with the lead actor
portraying Renfeld’s descent into madness with aplomb. The supporting cast are also excellent, with particular mention
going to the actor playing Dracula for his menacing and imposing performance. Overall, ‘Renfeld’ is an exciting and captivating horror
movie that is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
It’s a modern take on the classic horror story, with a fresh and exciting
twist. It’s a thrilling and gripping experience that will have viewers hooked from start to fnish.
Highly recommended
The highly anticipated movie Strays 2023 is the latest flm from acclaimed director Jamie Fox. Set in 2023, Strays follows the story of a group of multiple stray dogs as they are rounded up by a mysterious organization known as the “Omega Program”. The dogs are then taken to an abandoned facility in the middle of
nowhere, where their future is uncertain. The lead dog, named “Bolt”, quickly realizes that he and the other strays are being used as part of an experiment to create a new breed of super dogs. With the help of a mysterious girl, Bolt and his newfound allies must learn to trust each other in order to survive and fnd freedom. The movie is sure to be an emotional roller coaster as the dogs embark on their journey of self-
discovery and hope for a better future.
Strays 2023 is a heartwarming adventure that showcases the resilience and strength of animals while also exploring the fascinating world of genetics and the consequences of human interference in nature. The movie features an impressive cast of actors, including Jamie Foxx as Bolt, as well as other notable stars such as Jennifer Aniston, Kiefer Sutherland, and Abigail
Breslin. Foxx brings a unique energy and charisma to the role of Bolt, as he leads the pack of strays on their mission to fnd freedom.
Strays 2023 is sure to be an exciting and entertaining movie that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. With its thought-
provoking themes and stunning visuals, the movie is sure to be a hit with both animal lovers and action fans alike.
BY JEFFREY GIBBSThe latest movie adaptation of DC Comics’ Flash is here!
Titled Flash – Worlds Collide, this movie promises to be a thrilling exploration of the multiverse, full of action, drama, and suspense.
The Flash is a superhero with the power to move at superhuman speeds, and in this movie, he must use his powers to traverse the multiverse to stop a powerful villain from destroying the fabric of reality. As he battles the villain, he encounters alternate versions of himself from alternate timelines, and must work with them
to save the world from destruction. The movie promises a roller coaster ride of excitement and adventure.
The Flash must battle a range of new villains, while also learning more about his own power and the power of the multiverse.
Along the way, he makes new allies as well as enemies, and discovers his true potential. The movie is also set to deliver a powerful message about the importance of family and friendship. The Flash must learn to trust his allies in order to defeat the villain, and must also rely on his family
and friends to help him in his quest.
Flash – Worlds
Collide is a thrilling new take on the classic DC Comics hero, and promises to be an exciting ride for both fans of the comics and newcomers alike. With an all-star cast, stunning visual effects, and a gripping plot, this movie is sure to be a hit.
So, if you’re looking for a fun and exciting movie, Flash – Worlds
Collide is defnitely one to check out! Get ready for a thrilling adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
as Flounder, Jonah Hauer-King as Eric, Awkwafna as Scuttle, and Javier Bardem as King Triton. The movie is sure to be a hit, and will be a great way to introduce a new generation to this classic story. With a talented cast and crew, this movie is sure to be an entertaining and magical experience.
BY JEFFREY GIBBS
The Little Mermaid is a classic tale that has been beloved by children and adults alike for decades. Now, Disney is breathing new life into this story with a live-action remake set to be released in 2023.
The flm is being directed by acclaimed director Rob Marshall, and is being co-produced by his wife and frequent
collaborator, John DeLuca. It is being written by David Magee, who wrote the screenplay for the hit movie “Life of Pi.” The movie will follow the same general plot as the original tale, but with a modern twist.
In this story, the Little Mermaid is a young girl who is forced to fee her home after a powerful storm.
She fnds herself stranded in an undersea
kingdom where she meets a rag-tag group of young mermaids. Together, they must fnd a way to survive in a hostile environment and journey to the surface to fnd their way home.
The Little Mermaid 2023 will star Halle Bailey as Ariel, the Little Mermaid, and Melissa McCarthy as Ursula, the villainous sea witch.
The movie will also feature Jacob Tremblay
The Public Health Association of Australia welcomes the comprehensive action plan on vaping and tobacco use announced today by Health Minister Mark Butler and congratulates the
Minister for committing to take decisive steps in the face of an emerging public health disaster.
Adjunct Prof Terry Slevin, CEO, Public Health Association of Australia says that the new measures, including
For all your aches, pains, strains and migraines THINK BOWEN THERAPY (THE AUSSIE THERAPY)
stronger legislation, enforcement, education, and support to tackle recreational vaping are important steps toward re-establishing Australia’s position as a world leader on tobacco control.
“The widespread, aggressive marketing of vaping products, particularly to children, is a worldwide scourge,” says Adjunct Professor Slevin.
“For smokers who are legitimately trying to
quit using vapes, the prescription model pathway is and should be in place.
“But that should not be at the cost of creating a new generation of nicotine addicts among children and young people.”
“We congratulate Minister Butler for responding to the evidence and standing up to a powerful industry that seeks to proft at the expense of current and future generations’ health.”
Minister Butler’s announcement comes as some of Australia’s leading tobacco experts gather in Adelaide at the PHAA’s Prevention 2023 conference, with vaping on the agenda of the 2-4 May event.
It also follows recent research, led by Professor Simone Pettigrew of The George Institute for Global Health, and published in the Australia and
New Zealand Journal of Public Health, which showed that almost half of young people who completed an online survey reported being either current e-cigarette users (14 percent) or having tried or used them in the past (33 percent).
Adjunct Professor Slevin also welcomed the announcement of Government investment in a new public health campaign to discourage vaping and encourage Australians to quit smoking.
“We cannot forget that one in 10 adults woke up this morning craving a cigarette. Tobacco is still one of the leading preventable causes of death and illness in Australia.
“It has been over 10 years since Australia had a federally funded tobacco campaign and we have been calling for it to be reinvigorated for over fve years, so this news is particularly welcome.”
Dr Raglan Maddox, Tobacco Spokesperson, PHAA, also welcomed the renewed funding for the Tackling Indigenous Smoking program.
“Most Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who smoke want to quit, or wish they never took it up,” Dr Maddox said.
“But approximately 40 percent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults smoke daily. These measures are a much welcome step toward accelerating reductions in tobacco use.”
Adjunct Prof Slevin concluded: “Today is a pivotal, historical moment in Australia’s fght against smoking, vaping, and Big Tobacco. We congratulate Minister Butler, and look forward to seeing positive progress as he works with the states and territories to ensure these commitments are fulflled.”
By JEFFREY GIBBS
Low-light indoor plants are a great way to bring some life and greenery into even the darkest of spaces. These special plants thrive in lowlight conditions, making them a great choice for apartments, offce buildings, and other areas that don’t get much natural sunlight. Not only do they add a touch of nature to your home or offce, but many of them also have air-purifying properties that can help improve the air quality in your home or workspace. When choosing a low-light indoor plant, the most important consideration is the amount of light that the space gets. Generally speaking, plants that are labelled as “lowlight” can tolerate a few
hours of direct sunlight per day, although this can vary depending on the species. It’s also important to look at the size of the plant when selecting a low-light indoor plant; some species can grow quite large, making them a better choice for larger spaces. There are many types of low-light indoor plants to choose from, ranging from small succulents to tall ferns. Some of the most popular low-light plants include Chinese evergreen, peace lily, pothos, and spider plant. All of these are relatively low-maintenance plants that don’t require a lot of sunlight or water to thrive. When it comes to caring for your lowlight indoor plants, it’s important to keep in mind that they don’t
need a lot of water. While these plants do need some moisture, they are generally forgiving if you forget to water them occasionally. If the soil feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water your plants. Too much water, however, can be just as harmful as not enough, so be sure to check the soil moisture level before watering. When it comes to fertilizer, low-light indoor plants don’t require a lot. In fact, it’s best to only fertilize your plants once or twice a year. Be sure to use a fertilizer specifcally formulated for indoor plants, as regular outdoor fertilizers can be too strong for indoor plants. Low-light indoor plants are a great way to bring some life and greenery into even the darkest of spaces. Plus, they are relatively lowmaintenance and don’t require a lot of water or fertilizer. And since they don’t need a lot of sunlight, they are perfect for apartments, offce buildings, and other areas that don’t get much natural sunlight. With so many species to choose from, you’re sure to fnd the perfect low-light indoor plant for your home or offce.
FERTILIZING:
Indoor plants are a great way to add life and greenery to any home, but taking care of them can be a tricky task. Low-light indoor plants require extra care and attention, especially when it comes to fertilizing.
In order to keep your low-light indoor plants healthy and thriving, regular fertilization is a must. Fertilizer is an essential part of any indoor plant’s health. It provides essential nutrients that plants need to grow and produce
fowers and fruit. Without fertilizer, plants will become weak and stunted, and eventually die. Low-light indoor plants are especially sensitive to the lack of nutrients, and need to be fertilized regularly in order to grow and fourish.
When it comes to fertilizing low-light indoor plants, there are several different options available. The most common method is using a liquid fertilizer, which is easy to apply and can be found in most gardening stores. Liquid fertilizers come in a variety of different formulations, so it’s important to read the label and choose one that is appropriate for your particular plant. It’s also important to follow the instructions on the label and only use as much fertilizer as is recommended; overfertilizing can be just as detrimental to your plants as not fertilizing at all.
Another option for fertilizing low-light indoor plants is to use slow-release pellets. These pellets are specifcally designed to slowly release nutrients over time, providing a steady supply of nutrients to your plants. Slow-release pellets are usually applied at the same time as the regular watering schedule, and should be applied according to the instructions on the label.
Finally, there is the option of using natural fertilizers. Natural fertilizers are made from organic materials and provide a slow, steady release of nutrients. Natural fertilizers can be applied in a variety of ways, such as mixing them into the soil or sprinkling them on the surface of the soil.
Natural fertilizers are often more expensive than other fertilizing options, but they are a great way to provide your plants with the nutrients they need without the use of harsh chemicals.
No matter what type of fertilizer you choose, it’s important to remember that low-light indoor plants need regular fertilization in order to stay healthy and thrive.
Fertilizing your plants too often or with the wrong type of fertilizer can be just as damaging as not fertilizing them at all. Be sure to read the instructions on the label carefully, and follow them closely to ensure the best results for your plants. With the right fertilizer and regular care, your low-light indoor plants will be healthy and beautiful for years to come.
20m prep 6h 20m cook
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1.5kg Beef Brisket
• 12 eschalots, peeled
• 200g streaky bacon, halved lengthways, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 6 sprigs fresh thyme, plus extra to serve
• 1 dried bay leaf
3 METHOD STEPS
STEP 1
• Heat half the oil in a fameproof slow cooker bowl over medium-high heat.
• Cook beef for 5 minutes each side or until browned.
• Transfer to a plate.
STEP 2
• Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining oil to bowl.
• Add eschalot and bacon. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until eschalot softens.
• Add garlic and thyme. Cook for 1 minute. Transfer bowl to slow cooker.
• 1 cup red wine
• 1/2 cup Massel beef style liquid stock
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 carrots, thickly sliced
• 200g swiss brown mushrooms, halved
• 200g button mushrooms
• 300g green beans, steamed, to serve
• Mashed potato, to serve
• Add brisket, bay leaf, wine, stock and tomato paste.
• Top with carrot and mushroom. Cover with lid.
• Cook on low for 6 hours or until beef is very tender.
STEP 3
• Remove and discard bay leaf.
• Using 2 forks shred meat coarsely.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Serve with green beans and mashed potato.
20m prep 35m cook 8 servings
5 METHOD STEPS
STEP 1
• Preheat oven to 180C/160C fan-forced.
• Grease 8 holes of 2 x 6-hole, 3/4-cup-capacity Texas muffn pans.
• Line base of each hole with a round of baking pape
STEP 2
• Combine dates, boiling water and bicarbonate of soda in a large heatproof bowl.
• Set aside for 10 minutes to soak.
STEP 3
• Using an electric mixer, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fuffy.
• Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition until just combined.
• Stir in combined fours, cinnamon and date mixture.
• Spoon evenly among prepared holes.
• Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a skewer
inserted into the centre of 1 pudding comes out clean.
• Set aside for 10 minutes to cool.
STEP 4
• Meanwhile, make Burnt caramel sauce Place caster sugar in a large, deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
• Cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, for 6 to 8 minutes until sugar melts and caramelises to a dark brown.
• Remove from heat. Carefully pour in the cream (mixture will spatter at this stage).
• Add salt and butter. Return to low heat. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until toffee dissolves and sauce thickens slightly.
STEP 5
• Transfer puddings to serving plates. Drizzle with hot caramel sauce. Serve with double cream.
• 2 cups pitted dates, fnely chopped
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 125g butter, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup self-raising four
• 1/2 cup plain four
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Double cream, to serve
BURNT CARAMEL SAUCE
• 1 cup caster sugar
• 300ml pure cream
• 1 tsp sea salt fakes
• 50g butter
The latest ABS government fnance fgures show that total property taxes covering all State and Local governments throughout Australia totalled $36.4 billion last fnancial year (2021/2022) and property taxes by State and Local governments overall surged by 67 percent during the tenyear period from 2012 to 2022.
Over the last decade, property tax collections increased nationally by $14.7 billion to $36.4 billion – a rise of 68 per cent.
This annual $36.4 billion in government property taxes equates to property tax collections of $100 million every
day according to Kevin Young President of Property Club, Australia’s largest independent property investment group.
“And these fgures do not include the billions of dollars collected by the Federal Government from taxes on the property sector such as GST and capital gains taxes.
“Rising property taxes are forcing property investors to sell their properties during an unprecedented rental crisis in Australia.
“Property Club members throughout Australia are selling their investment properties after being hit by increasing levels of government taxation
including the decision by the Federal Government in 2017 to remove depreciation benefts from second hand rental properties.
“It is time for all levels of government to stop using property owners as a cash cow and share the burden of taxation more fairly with other investors such as those who invest in the stock market.
“That is why Property Club is urging government to introduce a new share trading tax to offset the massive increase in property taxes over the last decade.
“When the GST was introduced, government gave a commitment to
remove stamp duty on property.
“This never happened but it was removed on share trading due to lobbying by the powerful fnance sector.
“Mum and dad property owners cannot spend millions of dollars on lobbying government like the fnance industry. Because of this lobbying, the fnance industry has been given preferential treatment over property owners which has created a major distortion in our taxation regime.
“The reality is that property owners were shortchanged by the failure of government to abolish stamp duty on property after the
introduction of the GST nearly two decades ago.
“A special annual tax on share trading would help enable stamp duty to be abolished on property and no further increase in land taxes.
“In addition, tax depreciation benefts should be restored to
second hand rental properties by the Federal Government.
“The only way to solve the housing crisis in Australia is to reduce taxes on the property sector and this proposal by Property Club would be a major frst step in this sound policy direction” he said.
The Minns Labor Government is acting to strengthen the quality of building and construction in NSW by establishing a NSW Building Commission by the end of the year – a single body to oversee the regulation, licensing and oversight of the industry.
The Building Commission will build on the strong foundation laid by Building Commissioner David Chandler since his appointment in 2019. The housing supply crisis that our state is facing will require more supply and more construction if NSW is to retain its young people and families. The jump in rental prices in recent times has left too many NSW residents considering their future.
The NSW Government recognises the pressing need for more homes to enter the market – to ease pressure on the housing market and keep young people in NSW.
But the Minns Government is committed to ensuring the tens of thousands of new homes that our state requires are quality homes.
Building Commissioner David Chandler has sent a strong message to the high-rise apartment sector that there is a tough regulator policing the industry. This was overdue.
The NSW Building Commission will elevate and strengthen this work, ensuring people who purchase any property in NSW can have even greater confdence in the
quality of the work.
The Government will also this year introduce to Parliament its new, plain English Building Act, implementing an important election commitment.
The new Building Act will consolidate and modernise many pieces of legislation, some decades old, scattered throughout the state’s statute books.
This work will provide clarity to consumers and the sector about their rights and responsibilities and incentivise the building sector to deliver quality homes.
Departments have also started work on implementing the Government’s suite of election commitments.
The Government has already fulflled one of its commitments, appointing a separate Minister for Building, Anoulack Chanthivong.
Chris Minns, NSW Premier said:
“I’ve made clear we need more supply, there’s no two ways about it.
“The pressure on the rental market is severe, and the Government’s job is to get more supply into the system to help alleviate some of that pressure.
“But I want to provide confdence to the public that when we build, we’ll build properly.
“We want well-built, well-designed suburbs with top-tier buildings and top-tier builders.
“The Building Commissioner David Chandler has done a remarkable job cleaning up the construction industry. We want to expand on that and ensure can get supply moving while still maintaining public confdence in the quality.”
Minister for Building, Anoulack Chanthivong said:
“We have the chance to deliver on a once in a generation opportunity to transform the NSW construction sector.
“We’re thrilled to be joined by David Chandler OAM who has been responsible for bipartisan reforms to strengthen and modernise our construction sector.
“This sector accounts for almost 10 per cent of the economy, so getting this right is critical.”
“We have to build up not out and this is the frst step in ensuring the projects in this global city are of the highest quality.”
1 Contract part (6)
4 Thick cable (6)
10 Excel (5)
11 Journeyed (9)
12 Tropical fruit (9)
13 Donor (5)
14 Figure (6)
15 Impoverished (4)
19 Wan (4)
20 Modernise (6)
24 Detached (5) 25 Maritime mercenary (9)
28 Finished (5)
1 Cutting very short (9)
2 Self-government (8)
3 Retention (7)
9 Victorian mountain range (7)
16 Having a small piece broken o (7)
17 Plant yielding fragrant oil (8)
18 Archipelago o the coast of Scotland (8)
19 Lucerne (7)
1 What was the RPG video game Gloomhaven adapted from?
2 Against the Loveless World is a 2019 novel by which author?
3 What main two materials make up the Pyramid of Giza?
4 The Nintendo Switch was released on March 3 of which year?
5 Tenet is the latest lm by which British-American lm director?
6 Which of the following is not a fruit: tomato, eggplant, potato or pumpkin?
7 In terms of printing, what does CMYK stand for?
8 Amanda Collin (pictured) stars as Mother in what 2020 sci- series?
9 The period during the Dutch Golden Age in which tulip bulb prices skyrocketed and then dramatically collapsed is called what?
10 Turquoise is a birth stone for which month?
ACROSS
1 Forward (4)
5 Operator (4)
6 Blood-sucking insect (4)
7 Shape (4) DOWN
1 Polish (4)
2 Norway’s capital (4)
3 Look slyly (4)
4 Small drink of whiskey (4)
The
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included, and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.
No. 146 14
Call 07 5534 4494 or jump onto cunninghamvaluers.com.au to see what services we can offer you! Email admin@cunninghamvaluers.com.au
R B Insert each number from 1 to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations. Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.
G T R S D S O S ×
Solve all the clues and an eight-letter word will be spelled out.
6 To copy or repeat
Call 07 5534 4494 or jump onto cunninghamvaluers.com.au to see what services we can offer you! Email admin@cunninghamvaluers.com.au admin@cunninghamvaluers.com.au Coolangatta & Tenterfield Email Offices
Call 07 5534 4494 or jump onto cunninghamvaluers.com.au to see what services we can offer you! Email admin@cunninghamvaluers.com.au
Each number corresponds to a letter. Can you crack the code?
× +
NOTE: + = 52
÷ –
+ = 6
× +
× = 14
+ +
=
= =
28 14
7 A beam of light, can come from a gun
8 Like a sock for your hand
1. In which new Foxtel series does Naomie Harris play a mother named Helen?
A. The Flight Attendant
B. Raised by Wolves
C. The Undoing
D. The Third Day
2. Which James Bond character has she played since 2012’s Skyfall?
A. M
B. Bill Tanner
C. Miss Moneypenny
D. Q
NAOMIE
3. Her role in which film earned an Oscar nomination?
A. Spotlight
B. Moonlight
C. Green Book
D. The Shape of Water
4. At which university did Harris earn a degree in social and political science?
A. University of Oxford
B. University of Cambridge
C. Harvard University
D. Yale University
5
13 × +
= 28
= 14 =
+ + + ×
= 6 ×
+ ÷ –+
= 52 ×
6 3 2 9
4 7 1
8
CROSS MATH 5X5
14 13 S T R A P A R A B A G A T O R A S I D E S H O E S WORDFILL
e family of the late Leonard Ernest Leslie Bryant Wish to express our thanks and gratitude to all who attended Len’s funeral. Many thanks to all condolences and all services that provided care and support in Lens time of need.
Loving wife Marie, children and partners, Rodney and Nicole, Lenesse and Wayne, Ashley and grandchildren .
8 August 1940 to 29 May 2019
In my heart forever, missing you my partner, Love Pasqualina and family
Lorna Elizabeth “Betty” 16th May, 2023.
Much loved wife of John. Dearly loved mother of Kerri-Ann. Treasured Grandmother of Ellie & Jack and Ben. Beloved sister, sister-in-law, aunt and adopted Nanny of many.
The family and friends of BETTY are warmly invited to attend her Funeral Service to be held in its entirety in the Pavillion Function Centre, Cnr. Nundle Road and Back Kootingal Road, Nemingha commencing 2.30pm, Thursday 25th May, 2023.
JAMES VINCENT McLEAN
23/04/1947 - 09/04/2023
Passed Away Peacefully at Westmead Hospital Sydney N.S.W.
Loving Father & Grandfather. Loving Son of Harold & Mary McLean (Deceased)
Loving Brother of his siblings.
Loving Uncle to his Nieces & Nephews. Reunited with Mum, Dad & Five Siblings.
A Private Family Service was held in Sydney on the 10th of May, 2023
This page is dedicated to all those that have passed
What a relief! e Federal Government recently announced that aged care sta are set to receive the recognition they deserve, with wages for aged care sta set to increase by 15% in July.
We are looking for new team members to join our small but friendly home. Most importantly you will be in a position to bring a high level of service, care and satisfaction to our residents in their later years, supported by a fabulous team working for a not-for-pro t organisation that has been in the caring business for over 80 years.
Cook / Kitchen Sta
We need great cooks & capable kitchen hands.
Essential:
• Knowledge in providing nutrition to the elderly (incl. special diets)
• Working knowledge of HACCP, but not essential.
• Ability to work independently with demonstrated cooking abilities.
• Flexible and happy to work a rotating roster.
• A passion for caring for others and delivering great food!
Care Services Sta / AINs
Essential:
• Caring compassionate individuals.
• A desire and willingness to work with each resident to empower them to continue to do the things that they love.
• Current First Aid Certi cate desirable.
A Certi cate III in Aged Care or Individual Support (or working towards)
• Team player who is highly motivated with excellent communication skills
• Availability to work various shi s across various days
Please forward your expressions of interest and CV to the Care Manager admin.richmond@northcoast.upa.org.auenquiries welcome to 02 6662 1937
We’re excited about the Federal Government’s announcement to increase wages for RNs and are now looking for the right person to join our clinical team. Wages are set to increase by 15% in July.
Our RNs enjoy working closely with sta , consumers and their health practitioners in a small friendly home. Most importantly you will be in a position to bring a high level of care and satisfaction to our residents in their later years.
Essential:
• Full unrestricted AHPRA registration as a Registered Nurse
• Experience in Aged Care Nursing but not essential. A willingness to learn.
• An individual who values compassion, respect, integrity, kindness, and inclusiveness.
Bene ts and Perks
• From $44 ph. + Plus super and leave loading.
• Salary packaging options (up to $15,900 living expenses & $2,650 entertainment bene ts, tax free)
• Access to a Wellness Program & $200 annual payment
• Up to $500 retention bonus for permanent appointments
• Financial support for AHPRA registration (including payment of annual fees)
• Supportive and friendly work environment
• Work/life balance and exible working arrangements available Pre-employment screening e successful candidate is required to complete UPA’s pre-employment screening process including a police check.
Interested?
Please email your interest/application to careers@northcoast.upa.org.au or call 02 6628 5559 for a chat.
• Roof
tile and metal
• Guttering: whirly birds: mesh
• Emergency/insurance
TREE SERVICES
ALSTONVILLE
ALSTONVILLE BRANCH OF THE RED CROSS
The Alstonville Red Cross branch meets monthly in Alstonville. As meeting dates sometimes vary, please call Carol on 0424 742 774 for details of our next meeting.
ALSTONVILLE & DISTRICT CRICKET CLUB
Alstonville & District Cricket Club will be celebrating its 50th year of existence since the amalgamation of the two village clubs on the plateau - Alstonville & Wollongbar on 10th July 1973.
The reunion of former and current players will take place on Sat 21st & Sun 22nd October weekend. Plans include a Welcome BBQ luncheon at one of the home competition games being played at either Hill Park, Wollongbar or Geoff Watt Oval, Alstonville on the Sat 21st Oct. (Cricket draw for season 2023/24 still to be determined). Drinks will continue to fow from 4:00pm onwards at the Alstonville Plateau Sports Club.
On Sun 22nd Oct, a special luncheon will be held from mid-day onwards at the Sports Club. Guests will be entertained with cricket stories from each decade and all attending former and current 1st Grade players will receive a keyring with their playing number attached (in line with the sequence of selection).
Leading into the reunion celebrations, an ‘Old Mates’ group will meet every month at ‘The Crossing Cafe’ Main Street, Alstonville for a social gathering and beverage to renew old friendships and forming new ones.
For further enquiries for cricket reunion contact Jack Oates (mob: 0429 533 940) or for ‘Old Mates’ contact Garry Ensbey (mob: 0403 033 227)
ALSTONVILLE PROBUS CLUB
Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cuppa and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are welcome.
ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB
A local women’s service club that meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at the Plateau Sports Club. Quota is committed to supporting and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the disadvantaged in our community through local projects.
ALSTONVILLE UNITING CHURCH
Are holding some MARKET STALLS in their Hall Cnr. Main Street & Bugden Avenue on THURSDAY 1st JUNE from 10.am - 2pm. For sale will be a variety of CAKES, slices, biscuits etc. Also, CRAFTS & Gifts, PRODUCE incl. Jams / pickles etc. plus some ANTIQUE & collectable items. MORNING TEA will be on sale with some ‘snack ’type food. At the rear of the Hall the Bargain Shop will be OPEN with LOTS of Bargains e.g., Adult & Children’s Clothing, Kitchen ware, linen, books, Plants and lots more.
Enq: L. Hunt 66 280 542
Publicity Offcer
CRAWFORD HOUSE
MUSEUM
The latest exhibition at Crawford House Museum is “Signifcant Stories and Items from the Alstonville Plateau Historical Society Collection”. It will introduce you to some amazing historical objects which have been identifed during the Society’s Signifcance Assessment Project and have state and national heritage signifcance. By popular demand, the exhibition has been extended until Friday 26th May. The museum also has facilities for research about Ballina Shire families, as well as books about local history and commemorative wineglasses and keyrings for sale. The museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open Fridays 10am-4pm and Sundays 1pm-4pm or at other times by appointment for groups. Enquiries (02) 6628 1829, aphs2477@ yahoo.com.au or www. aphsmuseum.org.au. By the way, we have openings for people of any age to volunteer in administration or in the museum and if you’re on a JobSeeker payment and 55 or older, it’s a great way to meet your mutual obligation requirements. If you’re interested, visit us at the museum or phone or email us.
EMBROIDERERS
GROUP
Meetings are 9.30am2.30pm 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month except December and January. Our venue is the Resource Centre at the rear of Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. We welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet, share and learn.
MCLEANS RIDGES
CRAFT GROUP meet at the McLeans Ridges Hall, Cowlong Road, McLeans Ridges on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Scrapbooking, card making, paper craft, knitting whatever takes your fancy. Come along for an enjoyable day. Bring your own morning tea and lunch. Coffee, tea, milk
provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.
SQUARE DANCING
Summerland Larrikins
Squares Alstonville, Fridays 7.30pm-9.30pm at Uniting Church Hall, 59 Main Street, Alstonville. Contact 0407663017 for further information. New dancers welcome.
THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA (NSW Branch) ALSTONVILLE SUB-BRANCH
Alstonville RSL subBranch will now hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am at the RSL Hall, 13 Bugden Ave (next door to the Alstonville Medical Centre). All ex-Service persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning tea on completion of the meeting. Alstonville RSL sub-Branch have a ‘Lower Deck Luncheon’ at 1200 each Friday, everyone is welcome, we sit out the back of the Hall, order lunch from local suppliers, and have great conversations with good mates. There is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!
BALLINA
BALLINA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE INC. (BACCI)
We are a diverse group of Artists and Crafters that participate in wonderful group exhibitions. Over 50 members are from all over the Northern Rivers. Meetings are usually on the 1st Monday of every month at the Cherry Street Sports Club. Social gathering at 5, for a 5.30 start.
Ph: Deb on 0432105540
BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB
“Social play every Monday 9-11.30am”. Sessions for all levels of players on Mon, Wed, Sat from 1pm to about 5pm. Be seated at 12:45. Restricted session (under 300 Masterpoints) Thu 1pm – about 5pm. Friday mornings, Help with Play. Open to anyone who would like some help with their game from teachers on duty. 9am to about 11:15pm. Sessions are $5 for members and $7 for visitors at 13 North Ck Rd, Ballina. Call Judy Forsyth: 0407664337.
BALLINA COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB INC
“LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC DAYS” of The Ballina Country Music Clubs are scheduled for the frst Sunday of the Month.
“Boot Scootin Day”, put this date in your calendar “SUNDAY 4th JUNE” another big day cause we’re going to celebrate our 17th year, yeah, we started in 2007.
BALLINA CWA
On Friday 26th May, the Ballina CWA Branch will
be holding their cake stall outside The Greater Bank from 9.00am – 2.00pm. Please join us for these very worthwhile fund raisers. All are welcome.
BALLINA EVENING
VIEW CLUB
Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club at 6.30 for dinner at 7pm - Guests are always welcome. Our members support the education of disadvantaged children in Australia by fundraising activities and social events in our local community for The Smith Family - by sponsoring 5 Learning for Life students. Ph: Julie Stephan 0434988770.
BALLINA LADIES
PROBUS CLUB
The next meeting of the Ballina Ladies Probus Club will be on June seventh at the Ballina RSL Club at 10 am. The Guest Speaker will be Mark Patterson speaking on “on-line security” All visitors are welcome. Phone Wendy 0419560916 or Pamela 66811022 for more information
Taking names for the shopping trip to Robina Town Centre on Wednesday 12th of July. Cost is $26.00 Coach trip to Grafton on Wednesday 14 June. Visitors welcome. $45.00 payment by 7 June 2023
Included in cost coach, morning tea/coffee, scones with jam and cream at New Italy. Time to browse in gift shop and museum. Drive to Grafton, look around shops and get lunch at own cost. Then visit historic Shaeffer House Museum, cost of entry included. Pick up at Alstonville and Ballina. Phone Wendy or Pamela (phone numbers above) for more information
BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE
RSL DAY CLUB
A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment.
Every Thursday 10am to 2pm cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249
BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE
CLUB
Social Bridge Play in Seniors Hall. Swift Street Ballina on Wednesday & Saturdays @ 12.05 pm Enquiries Phone: 0493425002 for details.
BALLINA TOY LIBRARY
Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina.
Open Tuesdays 1pm - 3pm, and Saturdays 10am - 1pm. Ph. 0411719074.
IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB
How about trying something different? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.
NORTHERN RIVERS
NAVAL & MARINERS ASSOCIATION
This association was formed to attract veterans for companionship, wellbeing and to supply advocacy to veterans. We hold an informal gathering every Friday, 2.30pm at Ballina Angling Club (families are welcome). Ph: Allan Watt 0402 749 582
PROBUS CLUB OF BALLINA WATERS
The next luncheon will be on Friday 26 May. This club is a mixed club and both men and women are invited to join us for a range of interesting social functions. Further information is available from the Secretary Brian on 0432277170.
BROADWATER
COUNTRY MUSIC
AFTERNOON
Dungarubba Hall will be having a Country Music
Afternoon at Broadwater Hall (as their Hall is still not repaired) on Sat 27th May 12pm to 5pm, afternoon tea available, a variety of entertainers.
Regards Erin Gollan
BRUNSWICK HEADS
BRUNSWICK VALLEY
VIEW CLUB
Brunswick Valley VIEW Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10.30am for 11am.
Apologies to Wenda on 0449 563 580 no later than the Monday before. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women. The club supports seven disadvantaged students in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. 1800 805 366
CASINO
CASINO & BONALBO UPPER CLARENCE
LIONS CLUBS
Casino Lions club now meets each 4th Wed at the RSM.
CASINO COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED
Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am-1.30pm. Contact 66626423
CASINO CROQUET CLUB
Casino Croquet Club members are reminded that the winter playing
times will commence from 6th June. Arrival time for setting the greens will be 12md for start of play at 12.30pm. New players are welcome to come along for your free trial games. Mallets are available. Bring afternoon tea and join us in a cuppa following play. Thanking you.
Jean Andrews (Publicity Offcer, Casino Croquet Club)
CASINO & DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY GROUP INC
We are open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm, Wednesdays from 12pm to 4pm and every third Saturday from 9 am to 11.30 am. We are in Room 5, upstairs in the School of Arts building in Walker Street, Casino. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am. For a small fee we can do research for you as well. Call 6664 1118
CASINO EVENING BRANCH OF CWA
The Casino Evening Branch of the CWA meets on the frst Thursday of the month at the Casino Uniting Church Hall at 6pm. Come along and have supper and fnd out what we do. All welcome. Enquiries to Jo on 0417798622
CASINO GALLERYART at the CASSINO GALLERY. The Casino Art Group meets here every Thursday to Saturdays 10am to 3pm Interested in promoting YOUR medium? Come to the gallery for information.
CASINO HOSPITAL
AUXILIARY needs volunteers to work in the hospital kiosk. Roster days are negotiable and can be discussed with the Kiosk Supervisor by contacting Barbara on 0439607788 or phoning the hospital kiosk during the day on 66600539.
CASINO LADIES AND FRIEND CRAFT GROUP
Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month. Bring your own morning tea. Names to be in by lunch time Monday. Phone Vivian on 66621838 or Jan on 66626424.
CASINO MEALS ON WHEELS
If you would be interested in volunteering your time to help with meals on wheels give the offce a call on 66621217.
WEEK 2
MONDAY B. McEnerny & C. Moulden
J. Yates
TUESDAY B. Bennett
K. O’Reilly & L&N O’Reilly
WEDNESDAY
M.&M. Ayshford G. Mannix
THURSDAY J. Crooks
S. Garrard & E. Grogan
FRIDAY
M. Anderson
J. Connell
CASINO MINI RAIL
Every Sunday 10am to 4pm. Weather permitting. West Street Casino. Phone 0455673722.
CASINO MIXED PROBUS CLUB
Our Meeting is on fourth Thursday of each month at Casino RSM Club at 10:00am. Contact Kathleen Griffns, President phone 0427622470 or Daphne Boyd, Secretary phone 0400070085.
CASINO/RICHMOND VALLEY BLIND CITIZENS AUSTRALIA BRANCH
Casino /Richmond Valley BCA Branch June meeting is in the Casino Baptist Church Hall on the corner of Canterbury and West Streets Casino on Monday 5th June at 10am. Special guest speakers from the View Club will be in attendance. This is a special homemade hot soup luncheon meeting. After the meeting a hot soup luncheon will be served. New members are very welcome to join and enjoy a “cuppa” with everyone before the meeting. Free transport is available. Phone Denise: 0448 014 682
CASINO UNITING CHURCH
CAFÉ PRAISE…. Every Wednesday @ 10-11am. All Welcome 10am Morning Tea Fellowship. Welcome and Chat 10.30am Praise and Worship
CASINO VIEW CLUB
Monthly luncheon meeting at Casino RSM Club at 11am, second Thurs of every month. Contact Jan on 0418715374
AA-LIVING SOBER MEETING is held every Tuesday 12:00-1:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church Cnr. West & Canterbury Streets Casino Each week the group will discuss a chapter on living sober out of the AA Living Sober Book. Contact George on Ph: 0427133372 (due to so many scam calls) please leave your name and number and I will call you back.
CWA CASINO DAY
The CWA Casino Day invites everyone to our June meeting at the Casino Community Centre 9.00am Thursday June 15th (3rd Thursday of the Month), 2023. All welcome, come and have a cuppa and see what we are about. Our Mother’s Day Raffe was
drawn on Saturday 13th May, the lucky winners were Alison Newby 1st prize - $100 gift voucher for McDonalds Pharmacy and Elva Jones 2nd prize a $50 voucher for McDonalds Pharmacy. Thank you to everyone who bought tickets and helped to make the raffe a success. Enquires Margaret Good 66621746, Jennifer Baker 043892060.
FAIRY HILL CRAFT GROUP
Fairy Hill Craft group is on Thursday, June 1, 10 a.m. at the Fairy Hill Hall, Summerland Way, Fairy Hill. This month continue U.F.O’s / current projects. Show & Tell: Candle holders. New members always welcome. Tea/ coffee supplied, BYO lunch. Phone Sue 66633233 for details.
LION’S CLUB CASINO
Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start. Secretary: Denise Green 0448014682
LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION
Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.
THE PLATYPUS RSL DAY CLUB operates every Tuesday at the Community Centre from 10am to 2pm. The day consists of gentle exercises, mental stimulation, games and entertainment. Members are asked to pay $7 for their morning tea and lunch. Transport can be provided within the town limits. If you are feeling socially isolated or just need a day out, please contact Robyn on 66623871. New members are welcome.
EVANS HEAD
EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon. New members welcome. More info Roz 0427825560
EVANS RIVER RSL DAY CLUB
The Evans River RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Remembrance Room at Club Evans RSL Evans Head from 10am until 2pm Cost $10 includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We have several vacancies for volunteers and members, anyone who is feeling in need of some company are welcome to attend. Come along and join in the fun. Contact Merilyn on 0401493316.
EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP
Meet every Tuesday 9am12noon in the Recreation Hall (opposite the Kiosk). We invite you to join us for a relaxing morning of crafting, friendship and
sharing ideas. Beginners are very welcome. Finishing UFO’s, Embroidery, Gold Work, Hexagons, & Group Projects are just some of the crafts done.
GOONELLABAH
GOONELLABAH
LIBRARY
Life Story Writing Workshop at Goonellabah
Library
Thursday 25 May at 11am –4pm. A practical three-hour workshop in creative non-fction. This workshop will support all areas of interest, including memoir, family history, personal essay, travel diary, local history and feature article. A range of exercises and discussions progressively build upon each other. Getting started can be the hardest part but it doesn’t have to be, especially when the right side of the brain comes into play. The writer’s voice, fnding an opening hook and sensory language get attention. Turning facts into a compelling story is at the heart of the workshop which explores the writer’s maxim, Show, Don’t Tell.
11am - 12pm: Inconversation on memoir writing with Bob Brace and Graeme Gibson
1pm - 4pm: Writing Workshop
Please bring writing materials. Catering provided. Ph: 02 66251235
LIFE & RELATIONSHIPS
FOR WOMEN- 6 Sessions
Would you like to have closer, more harmonious relationships with others? This small confdential group is for women who want to move from surviving to thriving in their relationships and lives. Learn new skills, discuss new ideas and have fun.
When: Mondays 22nd May-3rd July
Time: 9:30am-12:30pm
Where: Child and Family Health Centre, Oliver Ave. Goonellabah.
Facilitator: Pamela Craven.
Women’s Health Matters
Cost: FREE
Bookings: 66202999
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. MonThurs 9.00am-1.00pm
THE PROBUS CLUB of Goonellabah meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Workers Sports Club in Oliver Ave. All welcome. Goonellabah
Probus is solely a social club. We have a guest speaker each month and go for outings throughout the
year. Meetings on Thursday commence at 10am and fnish at midday. For further information, please contact Gloria Francis on 02 6629 1442.
Connecting people with an interest in gardening, plants, fowers, and nature. It was lovely to get a bit of rain and now these great sunny days are welcome. Unlike summer when the garden dries out quickly there seems to be more time to simply enjoy it. Also, a great time of year for catching up on jobs that are easier to do in cooler weather outside.
Our next meeting will be on Thursday 1st June at the Joan Muir Centre, 194 Turf St Grafton. 10am to midday.
Entry is $2, please bring morning tea to share if you are able. We will supply coffee, tea etc. There will also be the regular Bring and Buy table so if you have some plants, cuttings or produce you would like to donate, they are greatly appreciated. Anything gardening related. All proceeds go to our Club.
A guest speaker from Rocky Point Products will also be present.
Publicity Offcer: Jane Rhodes: 0438 593032
GRAFTON CWA
Meetings of Grafton CWA are held on 2nd Friday of each month in the CWA Rooms, cnr Duke and Pound Sts. Morning tea is at 9.30am, followed by the meeting at 10am. Our next meeting will be on Friday, 9th June, when guest speaker will be Tanya Burman from Home Instead. New members are always welcome, members who join at this time of year pay a reduced rate until fees are due in October.
Craft mornings are held on 2nd and 4th Mondays at 9.30am-a good opportunity to get together to do some craft, meet other people, have a cuppa and a chat.
Anne McLellanGRAFTON’S
MIGHTY CLARENCE
TOASTMASTERS CLUB
Perhaps it’s time to fnd out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the Mighty Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton.
GRAFTON SENIOR CITIZENS
Grafton Senior Citizens
“Grafton Seniors recently had coach trip, with a small
group of 22. Travelled highway north to New Italy, for picnic morning tea, & time to browse complex. Drive through Woodburn, Coraki, Casino, to Windara plant nursery, for organised lunch, & time to view complex.
Back to Casino for afternoon refreshments at McDonalds.
Sincere thanks to all for support, committee for serving morning tea. & Coach Captain, Geoff, for good trip. Next trip, Fri,23 June, to mystery venue, some seats available.
8 day tour to Narrabri, Dubbo, Tamworth, from 12 August, still requires more bookings.
Soup day, Mon, 19 June, still taking bookings, which close 13 June for catering. Enquiries, Sandra, 6642 7720 or 04 1 7 464 946.”
GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES
Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street. Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors. We meet at 10.30a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with the exercises commencing at 11.
All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants. Further information can be obtained from Joan or Brian on 6644 7347 or 0416 067 315, or from Dot on 66423248 or 0477 213 017
GRAFTON VIEW CLUB
Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along, enjoy yourself with a tasty meal, a motivated guest speaker & ultimately disadvantaged children will be helped. Please phone Vorna at 66424719 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along to the next meeting to have some fun & help disadvantaged children. See you there!
CLARENCE RIVER
HISTORICAL SOCIETY “Schaeffer House Museum at 190 Fitzroy Street, Grafton. Is in full swing for 2023 with visitors starting to arrive by the busload! What do they see? First and last, the pretty gardens with a wide variety of plants, fowers, herbs and sheltering trees for the birds, butterfies, bees, and resident skinks. Inside the cool house they experience time travel as they see how people led their lives on the Clarence over 170 years ago, building for us a rich heritage to value forever! They will also see how to value the knowledge and help given by the original inhabitants on whose land the newcomers settled. It’s a never-ending story in your “Story House” museum.
Our vintage clothing collection will soon be stored away to make way for a new display, so pay a visit soon to Your Schaeffer House Museum! Don’t forget we have nine other great museums in the clarence Valley just waiting for another visit from you! PS: Our resident gnomes can be found somewhere in the garden. Others are tiny and hiding away!! Museum opening hours are Tues to Thur and Sunday 1pm to 4pm $12 – Family $5 – Adult and $2 – Child. Research hours are Tues to Thur only from 9am to 3pm. There is a small charge for researching. Our contact number for special openings is 6642 5212”. Should you wish to discuss this matter further please do not hesitate to contact me on either (02)66425212 or 0406397404.
COWPER ART GALLERY- Clarence Valley Woodworkers
The range of work in the exhibition includes everything from beautifully crafted bookmarks, wine goblets, hand carved sculptures, turned bowls and platters, to pieces of furniture, clocks and mirrors all made in a variety of timbers including jacaranda, cedar and silky oak. Don’t miss your chance to see these beautiful artworks that focus on the essence of working with wood. The Clarence Valley Woodworkers exhibition at Cowper Art Gallery and Studio: 90 Clarence Street Cowper Opens at 4pm on Sunday 28th May until 16th July, Ph: 0429357388 The gallery is open on Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-4pm.
SCHAEFFER HOUSE MUSEUM, 190 PRINCE STREET, Grafton, NSW
Many items are being ‘rested’ and replaced with different interesting historical photographs, paintings, and objects. Come to see if you can “spot” the changes! Our museum is constantly changing, just like the lovely garden that surrounds it!
When did you last “drop in?”
All our museums have different collections and are entertaining so check out the opening times for Alumy Creek, Iluka, Yamba, Glenreagh, Maclean, Lawrence and Copmanhurst. Schaeffer House hours: Tues, Wed, Thur, and Sun 1-4pm Admission Family of four $12.00 Adults $5.00 and children $2.00
We have been welcoming many new members lately, if you would like to join our historical society, you too, can receive our quarterly newsletters and receive many benefts in the Research Area.
Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome
When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414 794 380
The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at 10am on 3rd Tuesday each month, in the residents’ lounge at Hastings Point Tricare. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president 0409872773 for additional information.
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.
KINGSCLIFF 500 CARD CLUB
Kingscliff 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club
New players WELCOME
Contact: GARY 0499869992
KYOGLE
KYOGLE COUNTRY MUSIC
Kyogle Country Music’s next musical day is on Sunday 11th June at Kyogle Bowling Club commencing
at 11am. The club will have lunch afternoon tea coffee drinks available during the day. A $2 donation at the door appreciated.
KYOGLE SUNSHINE
CLUB
Meets every Thursday at 9.30am. For more details contact 0499824274.
KYOGLE TIDY TOWNS
FARMERS MARKET
Held every Saturday morning in Stratheden Street from 8am -12. Come along grab some local fruit & veggies, experience all Kyogle has to offer. New Stall Holders welcome. Ph: Anne 66321851
LION’S CLUB OF KYOGLE
Meeting is held on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at the Kyogle Lion’s shed from 6.30–7pm. Contact Neville Moon on 0448222334.
RICHMOND RIVER
BEEF PRODUCER’S ASSOCIATION
Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at Kyogle Showgrounds in the luncheon room at 7pm. Ph: Jan on 0427293455.
ROTARY KYOGLE BAZAAR
Fourth Saturday of every month.
See Rotary Kyogle Bazaar on social media for all the details or call 0459 512 249.
LENNOX HEAD
LENNOX HEAD CWA
Handy Craft Mornings on Mondays 9.30am-12noon in the community centre at Lennox Head. Call Jan on 66816150.
LENNOX HEAD DAY
VIEW CLUB
The Lennox Head Day VIEW Club meets on the frst Monday of each month at the Lennox Head Community Centre with the meeting starting at 11am and includes an interesting speaker and concludes with a light lunch. An informal Coffee and Chat meeting is held on the third Monday of the month. The Club sponsors three students through The Smith Family Learning for Life scholarship program that provides educational items for disadvantaged Australian children. New members and guests are most warmly welcomed, and enquiries may be made to Enid 047187511 or Dawn 0466717435.
LENNOX HEAD EVENING VIEW CLUB
Meets on the second Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Lennox Hotel at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. Guests are welcome. “VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith Family. Through fundraising activities
and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged. students.” Lennox Head Evening VIEW Club currently sponsors two Learning for Life students.
Ph: Sue Brennan 0409728814.
LENNOX HEAD LIONS CLUB
New members welcome to join our close-knit club where the emphasis is on community service in a fun environment. Meetings are on the frst and Third Wednesday of each month at Club Lennox starting at 6.30pm. Members do what they can, when they can to facilitate the needs of our club.
PROBUS CLUB OF LENNOX HEAD
Meets 9.30 for 10 at Club Lennox, 10 Stewart Street, on the frst Thursday of each month. Visitors are welcome, also retired, or semi-retired people wishing to join our non-service club to hear interesting guest speakers and to join in trips and outings are invited along. Ph: June Zentveld on 66871004
LISMORE
LISMORE BASE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY Lismore Base Hospital Auxiliary are holding a
Christmas in July on 22nd of July at 12 noon at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club 181 High Street Lismore Heights. Tickets are $35.00 a head for a two Course meal. We will be having games, Raffes ,lucky door prizes and a Hundred club . Come along and have a great day out with friends. Contact Carol on 0414847199 for tickets. Money raised goes towards buying vital equipment for Lismore Base Hospital.
LISMORE CITY CONCERT BAND
Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.15-7.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan. Ph: 0432575911
LISMORE CWA
IT’S ‘23’ SO COME AND SEE what being a member of the Lismore CWA DAY BRANCH could mean to you. We would like YOU to join us for the opportunity to be involved with a truly friendly group of fun, diverse & interesting women of all ages. You will make new friends who will support you, plus you’ll be part of contributing to the lives of Women and Children in our area through our
fundraising endeavours. PLEASE THINK ABOUT IT! Why not come along as a ‘guest’ to see how you feel and experience the difference. being a CWA Member could bring to you and your life. We meet on the frst Thursday of each month at 9:30am for a 10am start. Our 2023 meetings commence in February.
FOR MEMBERSHIP
INFORMATION call our President Allison Kelly on 0428 216 079. We also run CRAFT meetings each Friday. You’ll learn new things, once again meet new friends, and enjoy creating beautiful craft in great company.
FOR CRAFT
INFORMATION call Vicki Boyle on 0437 465 642. WE LOOK FORWARD SO MUCH to meeting you.
LISMORE HOME GARDEN AND EDUCATION CLUB
Next Morning Tea Saturday 24th June @ East Lismore Bowling Club. Next day coach trip sat17th June Gold Coast Nursery visits. Ph: 0448294496
LISMORE LIBRARY NEW LOCATION IN THE CBD
While the Lismore Library is under repair, you can fnd a Pop-Up Library at 146 Molesworth Street (Was Williams Shoes), for all your reading, watching and information needs.
The library has a fresh collection of donated community books, DVD’s, Puzzles and more, with weekly programs and events. The library is open 7 days a week.
Lismore Library - Social Circle
Friday 26 May at 10am –12pm
Come meet and mix with other seniors in our relaxed weekly social groups. This Friday, come and listen to this incredible local story, how our local journalist Lee created “Feral Cheryl”, the anti-Barbie doll. It all started as a joke! Refreshments provided; good times guaranteed.
LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY SHED
President: Don Abrahams 0437576837 Vice President: Bob Greig 0404860504
Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 9.00am – 3.00pm We are a community based non-proft organisation. Everybody is welcome: men, women & people with a disability of all ages. We encourage social inclusion. Our aim is to promote the mental, physical & emotional well-being of people in our community.
Shed Activities
Members work on their own projects, Mentoring is available, General woodworking, Welding & light engineering, Repair & restoration of items for the public Constructing projects,
of items for the 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. Ph: Bev on 0400326289
LISMORE SENIOR CITIZENS
Meet at the Goonellabah Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome.
LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS
Please join us…...
Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat…. Sharing Craft & Ideas. From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds. (off Bruxner Hwy) Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug)
Contac: Kim- 0423935060 Linda- 0419489987
LISMORE TARGET
RIFLE CLUB for .22
calibre rifes, meets Wed nights from 6.30pm & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 1.00 pm. Air rife shooting for .22 & 177 air rifes will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).
EAST LISMORE
BOWLING CLUB
Community Bingo
Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore.
Everyone Welcome
EAST LISMORE SOCIAL
TENNIS
Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We
invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.
MAINLY MUSIC
Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment.
Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200
NR U3A LISMORE INC. (UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE)
Have you retired or just about to, from the workforce? Are you looking to exercise your mind and body and keep both well oiled?
Well, Lismore U3A [university of the third age} could be just the place for you. This worldwide organisation has been running in Lismore for the past 30 years and thousands of local people have benefted from its programmes. It’s a great place to meet like-minded people and make new friends.
The last three years have been diffcult for us as they have for everyone, and we are on a recruitment drive to meet and greet you!
We start 2023 with a choice of at least 30 classes, which include, Languages, Photography, Science, History, Qigong, Genealogy, and many others. We also have a social calendar each term. U3A is entirely run by volunteers, with the committee and tutors coming from our membership. The joining fee Is $50 for 1 year and entitles you to attend any course you choose throughout the year; you can go every day if you wish. Why not peruse our site to see if there is a course that would be of interest to you.
There is an online enrolment form that you can complete and any queries you have can be directed to our secretary, Pat, McLaren- Smith Ph. 6622 7408
PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS
Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St.
Our brief meeting is
followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/text Pam on 0418766247 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.
ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING
Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a difference in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you!
Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at The Civic Hotel (210 Molesworth Street Lismore). Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.
ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC
East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.
ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE
Interested in contributing to community? Local and international?
The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Options Cafe, Main St. Alstonville until further notice. Join us at Options please. Ph: 0435 990 919
SUMMERLAND
AMATEUR RADIO CLUB
Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy and similar subjects.
SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.
Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information.
Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Arts Pavillion at Lismore Showgrounds. Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601
ZEN AND INSIGHT
MEDITATION –LISMORE HEIGHTS
INSIGHT (VIPASSANA)
MEDITATION and practice:
This mindfulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion. For further details, please contact Rosie - 0402 682 925
ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm-8:15pm. The evening includes instructions, sitting meditation, Dharma talks and individual interviews with the teacher. For further details, please phone: 0427778837
Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed at both groups.
MACLEAN
MACLEAN VIEW CLUB
Monthly meetings the 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purposes.
MURWILLUMBAH
COMMUNITY PRINTMAKERS
MURWILLUMBAH
Fine art printmakers. Meet at studio space 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding. Prints, gallery, workshops and more! Ph: Peter 0498399640 or Sue 0408493253.
MURWILLUMBAH
COMMUNITY GARDEN
Members and visitors are invited to join the group for activities and gardening tips most Sundays. Time 3-5pm, street parking, BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat, and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Ph: Bob Johnson (02)66225792.
POTTSVILLE
POTTSVILLE FUN
CROQUET CLUB
Meets at Black Rocks
Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375. We will have a new starting time at the end of daylight saving.
POTTSVILLE LADIES LIFEBALL
Every Thursday morning 9.30am to 11.30am. Pottsville Community Hall, $5 per session includes morning tea. No joining fees. Ph: Jan 0431909760.
TWEED HEADS
Poets and writers on the Tweed meet every Tuesday at the South Tweed Sports Club 1.30-3.30pm. Beginners welcome. Phone 0755248035.
TWEED HEADS PROBUS CLUB
Probus Club, Coolangatta/ Tweed Heads. Be at Club Tweed at 10-00am on the frst Wednesday of the Month. Visitors and new members are very welcome.
RICHMOND-TWEED FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY INC
The Society holds its monthly general meeting on the frst Saturday of every month at Players Theatre, 24 Swift Street, Ballina, from 2pm-4pm and at each meeting we have a presentation of a topic at that meeting we hope you will continue to support us announcing this through your relevant media outlet, I have listed some upcoming meetings: Saturday 3 June Meeting: First Clue that Sparked a Line of Enquiry. Coordinated by Robyn Hilan. Saturday 1 July Meeting: A Photograph That Tells a Story. Co-ordinated by Jackie Chalmers. Saturday 5 August Meeting: AGM plus talks on The Black Sheep in the Family co-ordinated by Joy Conlon
TWEED PATCHWORK GROUP
Meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at South Tweed Community Center from 9-1pm at 18 Heffron Street Tweed Heads south all beginners welcome phone Moira on 0418686643. A friendly group of people with common interest in seeing, quilting and related craft.
TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB
Calls on community to give generously to The Smith Family’s Winter Appeal. We’d encourage anyone interested to get in touch and come along to our next meeting on Thursday June 1st. at the South Tweed Sports Club to learn more about VIEW.”
Anyone interested in fnding out more about TWIN TOWNS DAY
VIEW Club contact President Kathie on 0407709629
YAMBA
YAMBA DAY VIEW CLUB
Yamba Day View Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Yamba Bowling Club on 3rd Monday of month, starting 10am for 10.30am. Acceptance and apologies to President Lyn 66463164 by Friday prior to luncheon
for catering purposes. We hold a monthly social outing either for lunch or morning tea and visitors are always welcome.
YAMBA LIONS CLUB
Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.
ALL NORTHERN RIVERS
NRCF WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE
The Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRFC) is inviting Northern Rivers women to play an active role in empowering vulnerable women and girls in our region. The newly formed NRFC’s Women’s Giving Circle brings Northern Rivers women together to achieve equality and human rights for women and girls in our region and enable them to realise their full potential. Ph: 0499862886
The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE HARRIERS is a non-proft community group that is part of a worldwide organisation. The Hash House Harriers meet every Monday at 6pm for a run/ walk from various locations around Lismore, Alstonville and Ballina. The run/walk lasts for approximately an hour, followed by friendship, banter and grub. We are very friendly and welcome new members.
NORTHERN RIVERS PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP
Covering Wollongbar to Ocean Shores.
Meets 2nd Friday of each month at Summerland Farm, Wardell Road, Alstonville. A general catch up & chat with the opportunity to join in a casual Q&A session with Rebecca, our Parkinson’s nurse. She will be there to answer any questions that you may have about anything to do with living with Parkinson’s or supporting or caring for a loved one. Maybe you want to know about symptoms, medication, treatments or services etc.
Rebecca is there to support us and help you manage your disease so that you live your best life. All those living with Parkinson’s Disease or those supporting them are most welcome. Please RSVP Cheryl 0428286753.
Warnings
See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings
Northern Rivers District:
Sunny. Light winds.
Thursday. Sunny. Light winds.
Northern Tablelands District:
Sunny. Patches of morning frost. Light winds becoming westerly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the afternoon.
Thursday. Mostly sunny. Patches of morning frost on and west of the ranges. Winds west to northwesterly 20 to 30 km/h.
New South Wales:
Chance of a shower or two about the Alps. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere. Cold morning with widespread morning frost and areas of fog inland. Daytime temperatures near average. Light to moderate northwest to northeast winds. Deceptively powerful surf conditions along the central part of the coast. Thursday. Showers developing on and west of the ranges in the south, falling as snow above about 1100 metres. Dry and mostly sunny in the north. Areas of morning frost and fog over the northern inland. Daytime near or a little below average. Strengthening northwest winds ahead of a west to southwesterly change sweeping through the west and south later in the day.
Byron Coast:
Winds: Northerly about 10 knots increasing to 15 to 20 knots during the afternoon. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Southerly 1.5 to 2.5 metres. Weather: Sunny.
Coffs Coast:
Winds: Northerly about 10 knots increasing to 15 to 20 knots during the afternoon. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Southerly 1.5 to 2.5 metres. Weather: Sunny.
Gold Coast Waters:
Winds: Southeasterly 10 to 15 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Southeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres inshore, increasing to 1.5 to 2.5 metres offshore. Weather: Mostly sunny.
SPEEDWAY
MARYBOROUGH RESULTS FROM SATURDAY, MAY 20, 2023.
V8 Dirt Modifeds.
Heat 1: Andrew Pezzutti
1, David Clark 2, Ryley Smith 3. Heat 2: David Clark 1, Andrew Pezzutti 2, Brendan Cherrie 3. A-Main:
King 3. Heat 3: Brodie King 1, Tyler Burnham
2, Jaiden Healey 3. Heat
4: Nathan Harper 1, Kiel Swadling 2, Jake Clarke
3. Heat 5: Jeremy Wade
1, Brodie King 2, Nathan Deuchar 3. Heat 6: Tyler Burnham 1, Jake Clarke 2, Stephen Keeler 3. Feature (50 laps): Tyler Burnham
Cobb 2, Connor Reeves 3. Junior Top Stars. Heat
1: Jaiden Santin 1, Indi Butcher 2, Khye McDonald
3. Heat 2: Indi Butcher 1, Jaiden Santin 2, Isobelle Jennar 3. Heat 3: Jaiden Santin 1, Isobelle Jennar 2, Khye McDonald 3. Feature: Jaiden Santin 1, Indi Butcher 2, Brock Stubbs 3. Junior New Stars. Heat
Taylor 1, Russ Hardy 2, Tony Blanch 3. Feature: Russ Hardy 1, Tony Blanch 2, Jai Jones 3. SSA Street Stockers. Heat
1: John Stoward 1, Darren Ciesiolka 2, Luke Gray 3. Heat 2: Darren Ciesiolka 1, Chris Corbett 2, Luke Gray
3. Heat 3: Darren Ciesiolka
for his rivals in the feature race.
Carlson, who had earlier in the season at Grafton Speedway claimed the NSW Title spoils, took out two out of the three heat races, before going on to continue his winning ways by romping to victory in the feature race ahead of Matt Cobb in second and Connor Reeves in third. The topfve fnishers were rounded out by Brendan Hayes and Dallas Barnier, while the remaining fnishers were Adam Grill, Robert Grill, Nathan Diews, Gavin Wade and Tayler Lofthouse.
and managed to defeat Jeremy Wade and current NSW Champion Jaiden Healey to the chequered fag.
Zeke Edwards 1, David Clark 2, Ryley Smith 3.
GRAFTON RESULTS FROM SATURDAY, MAY 20, 2023.
1, Jeremy Wade 2, Jaiden Healey 3. RSA Street Stockers. Heat
1 (20 laps): Shane Carlson
1, Chris Corbett 2, Adam
1: Jackson Bailey 1, Aida Miller 2, Jackson Kunny 3. Heat 2: Jackson Kunny 1, Aida Miller 2, Poppy Airey
3. Heat 3: Jackson Kunny
1, Luke Gray 2, Ricky Gill 3. Feature: Darren Ciesiolka 1, Luke Gray 2, Ricky Gill 3.
Apart from Carlson’s pair of wins in the hard-fought heat-race action for this season’s Stocksville 100, Chris Corbett was the other winner of the 20-lap events.
The support class feature races were claimed by Stuart Fawcett (Production Sedans) who proved too strong for Dale Corbett and Aaron Hall, Darren Ciesiolka (Street StocksSSA) outpaced Luke Gray and Ricky Gill, current South Australian Champion Jaiden Santin (Junior Sedans - Top Stars) fnished ahead of Indi Butcher and Brock Stubbs, and Jackson Kunny (Junior SedansNew Stars) managed to defeat Jackson Bailey and Poppy Airey.
4 Cylinders. Heat 1: Jaiden Healey 1, Nathan Harper 2, Jake Clarke 3. Heat 2: Jeremy Wade 1, Tyler Burnham 2, Brodie
BALLINA MAHJONG
19TH MAY 2023
Joy Lowien 1, Sally Lowry
2, Jan Small 3, Lorna Simpson 4, Kath Hubbard
5, Lesley Richie, Vanessa Reynolds 6, Carol Meyer
8, Val Heinritz 9, Barbara
Ellan 10, Lynda Lovett, Susan Scott 11, Rosemary Russell, Valda McLerie
13, Diana Auret, Pauline Kearney 15, Pam Farrell
17, Margaret Bryant 18, Cindy Smith, Shirley Atkinson 19, Jeanette Henwood 21, Wendy
Thornton 22, Jenny Lang
23, Susan Allan 24, Jane
Fenech 25, Deborah Green
26, Shirley Henry 27, Coral Lavelle 28, Jan Boardman
29, Gail McDonagh 30, Yvonne Weddup 31, Jan Henley 32, June Greenaway
33.
Mahjong is played on Friday at 12:30pm at the
Grill
3. Heat 2 (20 laps): Chris Corbett 1, Matt Cobb
1, Aida Miller 2, Poppy Airey 3. Feature: Jackson Kunny 1, Jackson Bailey 2, Poppy Airey 3. SSA Production Sedans. Heat 1: Stuart Fawcett 1, Myles White 2, Aaron Hall
3. Heat 2: Ryan Green 1, Stuart Fawcett 2, Myles White 3. Heat 3: Stuart Fawcett 1, Trevor Boyd 2, Sam Mooney 3. Feature: Stuart Fawcett 1, Dale Corbett 2, Aaron Hall 3. AMCA Nationals. Heat
THE 2022-23 season concluded on Saturday afternoon for Hessions Auto Parts Grafton Speedway, and it was current NSW Champion Shane Carlson who managed to dominate proceedings in the meeting’s major event, the annual Stocksville 100.
In the AMCA National action, the feature-race honours went the way of veteran racer Russ Hardy ahead of Tony Blanch and Jai Jones in second and third place respectively at the completion of the 20-lap journey. Earlier in the meeting, the heat-race wins were shared between Blanch, Paul Reeves and Mark Taylor.
2, Connor Reeves 3. Heat
3 (20 laps): Shane Carlson
1, Matt Cobb 2, Brendan Hayes
3. Feature (40 laps): Shane Carlson 1, Matt
1: Paul Reeves 1, Darren Miller 2, Graham Holland
3. Heat 2: Tony Blanch
1, Russ Hardy 2, Eddie Mackney 3. Heat 3: Mark
Regarded as one of the major events on the RSA Street Stockers season calendar, the Stocksville 100, which saw drivers compete in three 20-lap heat races and then a 40-lap feature race, saw the Raymond Terrace-based Carlson prove too strong
For the RSA Four Cylinder Sedans, their mammoth 50-lap feature race was action packed and it was youngster Tyler Burnham who came away with the top honours. Burnham, who recently graduated out of Junior Sedans, was in great form throughout the feature race
The Grafton Speedway promotion team would like to thank everyone, including race fans, competitors and offcials, for helping make the 202223 season a successful one. The team is now preparing to work on making the 2023-24 season even better. Grafton Speedway would like to thank Hessions Auto Parts for their 2022-23 season support. Based in Grafton, along with their nearby Coffs Harbour location, Hessions Auto Parts stock a wide range of parts and accessories at competitive prices. To fnd out more about Hessions Auto Parts, contact them on 0266 423 085 (Grafton) and 0256 456 361 (Coffs Harbour) or visit their website at hessionsautoparts.com.au.
Ballina Bridge Club North Creek Road.
Enquiries for new players phone Vanessa on 66874181.
CASINO WOMEN’S
BOWLS RESULTS
On Wednesday 17/5 we had one game of round 1 for the club minor consistency championship the result was:
K. McKay def M. Jordan
They both bowled well, congratulations to the winner & good luck in her next game.
We had 2 games of social bowls & the winners for the day were:
R. Skirrey, C. Haynes & I. Watson def C. Doyle, N. Moran & M. Hellyar
Tho other rink winner was:
J. Cooke, D. Skinner & M. Mead def D. Grice, J. Dwyer & K. Jonsson
Wednesday 24/5 is our beef week event & then on Wednesday 31/5 the minor consistency rounds will continue.
If you have an interest in learning to play lawn bowls or would like to return to lawn bowls, again come & join us at the Casino RSM club on a Wednesday morning from 9am to 12.30pm.
CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB
SPORTS RESULTS
RICOCHET CROQUET: Club Championships
Handicap Doubles: R.Poynting H.Young 8 d B.Wellings G.Porter 6
PENNANTS: Ballina 4 d Alstonville 2 Ballina 4 d Cherry Street 2
TOURNAMENTS :
Australian Open Singles Golf Croquet
Championships : R.Fletcher 1, M.Fletcher 2, G.Phipps 3, J.Gumbrell 4, B.McHardy 5, K.McGlynn 6, C.Quinn 7, B.Jennings 8, O.Dickinson 9, P.Freer 10, G.Lambeck 11, D.Scott 12. Plate Division: A.Matthews 1, P.DeArugo 2. NSW Selctors Golf Croquet
Tournament : Men : G.Denyer 1, H.McPherson 2, M.Powys 3, T.Abbott 4. Women : K.McLoughlin 1,
3, S.Sellers 4.
Gateball Croquet at Cherry Street Croquet
Club Thursday 25th May
8.30am.
All welcome to come along. Gateball a new version of Croquet.
Played as a team event for young and old. 5 players per team.
CORAKI VETERANS GOLF RESULTS
THURSDAY 18/5/23
52 Golfers enjoyed an 18 hole single stableford played on a golf course that was presented in magnifcent condition, Winner P Smith, 2nd J Gibson, 3rd R Black, free game J Savins, chicken/ ball winners T Newton, J Celich, D Vagne, M Fairfull, J Weaver, T Woods, E Reddell, T
This Thursday will be another single stableford commencing with a shot gun start at 8.30am followed by our monthly barbeque.
EVANS HEAD WOMENS BOWLS
Semi Final Club Championship Major Pairs played 17-05-23
L. Vidler, B. Montague defeated J. Fernance, K. Robson.
M. Gibson (Sub), K. Keevers defeated L. Hayes, V. Hart.
Final to be played 24-0523.
Ladies Social Day 17-05-23
- 2 Bowl Triples - Winners - B. Hancock, B. Cameron, A. Viney.
after they a swirling kick eluded the Rebels defence and Collett picked up the crumbs to score.
Woods kicked the diffcult conversion to put the Ghosts in front for the frst time in the game.
Cameron scored his third try minutes later, this time back up a break up the middle and Woods again nailed the conversion to make the lead challenging at 28-20.
The Rebels appeared to be squandering possession as they tried to bridge the gap trying to make miracle plays.
He said the team had to get back to playing disciplined football to get back into the game.
“We got the chance to get down in their half near half time and we got a couple of tries,” Cameron said.
For Rebels coach Ron Gordon it was a game that got away from his team.
“Ill discipline cost us,” he said. “We turned back the clock to the way we played a couple of years ago.”
from back page
By Tim HowardThe Grafton Ghosts have staged a comeback for the ages to grab a 28-26 local derby win over the South Grafton Rebels in the Group 2 Rugby League game at McKittrick Park.
Sunday’s showdown looked destined for the hosts after the Rebels jumped out to a 20-4 lead 25 minutes into the game on the back of a hat trick of tries to fullback Keiron Johnson-Heron and another to young winger Jye Boehme.
But the discipline that has characterised the Rebels over the past year, slipped away and the Ghosts piled on 24 unanswered points to grab the lead just after half time.
The Rebels were quick out of the blocks, scoring their frst through JohnsonHeron in under three minutes.
Some good lead up play from veteran No 6 Hughie Stanley got the Rebels close to the line and JohnsonHeron ran onto a short pass to crash over. Nick Torrens knocked over the conversion from close to the posts.
The Ghosts replied with a try of their own a few minutes later to winger Jay Olsen.
Cooper Woods conversion hit the uprights, but for the next 20 minutes that was as close as the Ghosts got to adding to their total.
From the kick off Ghosts winger Wirri Boland dropped a swirling ball, putting the Rebels on attack 20m out.
A set piece from a scrum soon after swept the ball to the left, putting Boehme over in the corner. Torrens’ conversion attempt also hit the post.
The Ghosts staged a promising raid into the Rebels half, but punishing defence held them.
The Rebels swept upfeld and were hard on attack when the frst signs of the feeling between the two teams broke out.
Some pushing in the play the ball degenerated into a brawl with players running in from everywhere.
In a desperate bid to stamp his authority on the game, the ref put Rebels skipper Grant Stevens in the bin along with Ghosts backrower Justin King.
The Rebels scored two more tried through Johnson-Heron to hit 20
points and put the Ghosts on the defensive.
The game turned as the Rebels seemed to have the Ghosts pinned on their line. But a poor kick option ended in the hands of the Ghosts try scoring machine Dylan Collett who seemed destined to score until mowed down in desperate cover.
Trying to slow the play the ball, Johnson-Heron turned from hero to villain when the referee gave him 10 in the bin for a professional foul.
The Ghosts exploited the extra player advantage, with skipper Todd Cameron scoring two tries darting out from dummy half, dragging his team back into the contest trailing 20-16 at half time.
Minutes into the second half the Ghosts drew level
But newly signed centre James Torrens got back to basics, running hard and twisting though tackles to score. Nick McGrady nailed a tricky kick to get the score to 28-26 and set up a thrilling fnal few minutes.
The Rebels piled on the pressure and looked close to scoring on several occasions only to be denied by desperate defence on the line.
Inside the fnal minutes Stanley tried his pet play, a fat cross kick to an unmarked winger, which put the winger away. He passed inside, but the Ghosts covered dragged him down a few metres from the line, defusing the threat.
After the game a relieved Cameron said his heart was in his mouth as his team repelled the desperate Rebels.
“The boys just kept turning up for each other,” he said.
He said there had been some niggle between the two teams, but nothing more than you’d expect in hard-fought local derby.
He said he had been forced to make some interchanges of key players late in the half, which coincided with the Ghosts comeback.
“Unfortunately the new players didn’t maintain the intensity we’d established in the frst part of the game,” Gordon said.
The Rebels were delighted with the crowd turn out for the game.
Ground manager Terry Power said it was several seasons since McKittrick Park had witnessed such a big turnout.
Scores
Grafton Ghosts 28: Tries Todd Cameron 3, Jay Olsen, Dylan Collett. Goals: Cooper Woods 4 def South Grafton 26: Tries: Keiron Johnson Heron 3, Jye Boehme, James Torrens. Goals: Nicholas Torrens 2, Nicholas McGrady 1
THIS Saturday night will see the 2022-23 season for Hessions Auto Parts Grafton Speedway conclude, and the highlight event out of the large felds of competitors is going to be the annual Stocksville 100.
The Stocksville 100 event has attracted a hotly contested feld of RSA Street Stockers from around the state of NSW, which includes current and two-time NSW Title Shane Carlson. Carlson, from Raymond Terrace in NSW, heads into the event as the favourite, following him picking up the NSW Title spoils earlier this season.
Apart from Carlson, other Stocksville 100 contenders are the likes of Jakob Lesha, Chris Corbett, Adam Grill, Adrian Williams, Connor Reeves, Greg
Dickinson, Brenden Hayes and Steve Hall.
When it comes to the format for the Stocksville 100 around the 440-metre track, it includes three rounds of heat races for each driver, along with a B main and the Stocksville 100 deciding feature race.
Supporting the Stocksville 100 are the AMCA Nationals, Production Sedans, SSA Street Stocks, RSA Four Cylinder Sedans and Junior Sedans. A solid line up of AMCA Nationals will converge at Grafton Speedway, along with current Queensland Champion Chris Corbett in the SSA Street Stocks, Portland’s Jaiden Healey is the current NSW Champion in the RSA Four Cylinder Sedans, and a big feld of Junior Sedans have nominated, as drivers aim
to get some vital track time leading into next season’s National Title at the venue.
When it comes to non-stop speedway action, Grafton Speedway is the place to be this Saturday
night for the 2022-23 season fnale.
Grafton Speedway would like to thank Hessions Auto Parts for their 2022-23 season support, which is their sixth consecutive
season as the track’s naming-right’s sponsor.
With store locations in both Grafton and Coffs Harbour, Hessions Auto Parts stock a wide range of parts and accessories
at competitive prices. To fnd out more, contact them on 0266 423 085 (Grafton) and 0256 456 361 (Coffs Harbour) or visit their website at hessionsautoparts.com.au.
