Racing will be returning to Casino after somewhat of a hiatus and there have been many changes made, thanks to the seven-race card to celebrate the running of the 2023 Charcoal Inn Casino Gold Cup on Saturday, 12 August.
“ (Richmond Valley) Council spent money on the showgrounds, including the race track (earlier in the year) but the stewards believed the track wasn’t ready in time which affected Beef Week races which were important to the town,” said Casino Racing Club President, John Walker.
“This time we got on the front foot and wrote to the stewards telling them they did not give due consideration to Casino and it cost the race club a lot.
“We got good responses from Country Racing and we’ve done some work.”
Mr Walker is pleased to announce that it is all systems go with the news the race track is ready and in great condition.
“From what we are seeing, the track has never been in better order,” Mr Walker said.
“Rectification works to three sections of grass on the racing track course proper, including drainage improvements and the laying of 15,000 square metres of new kikuyu turf, has the track looking its best in years. “Add in a solid
watering and maintenance program targeted for optimal growth, including coring, aerating and topdressing, we now have a surface which will deliver highly competitive racing.”
Mr Walker said The Charcoal Inn Casino Gold Cup had always been a vital race day on the local racing calendar, and as this is the first meeting since last year and judging by the interest being shown, the atmosphere is preparing to be electric.
The Charcoal Inn Casino Gold Cup is also known for its Fashion on the Fields and the lucky winner this year will receive a $100 gift voucher from Arum, and a $50 Kwong Sings gift voucher.
Don’t forget the ever popular The Charcoal Inn Casino Gold Cup Calcutta, which will be held at The Charcoal Inn on Friday 11 August, getting underway at 6pm. Gates open at 11am, and full TAB facilities will be available, as well as a fully-stocked bar and food.
The Casino Racing Club continues to work with Richmond Valley Council on the $8.2 million Casino Showground and Racecourse upgrade project.
Funding for this vital upgrade was made possible under the Bushfire Local
Economic Recovery Fund, co-funded by the NSW and Australian governments.
The upgrade will see:
• The construction of a 40mx80m undercover arena for equestrian and other agricultural events.
• New 40m x40m outdoor sand arena adjacent to the new undercover equestrian arena.
• New racing stable complex to accommodate up to 80 horses.
• Ancillary works such as manure bays, wash bays and 22 outdoor day yards.
• Equestrian exercise area including round yard and horse walker.
• Rehabilitation and upgrade of the sand-based training track.
• Improvements to three sections of the grass racing track course proper.
• New truck and float parking area.
• Centre arena surface upgrade.
• Service upgrades including electricity, water, sewer and trade waste.
Council also received $918,814 under the Crown Lands Showground Stimulus Fund for the cut-out yard, cutting yard extension, electrical upgrades to new transformer and new
amenities block, as well as $45,000 for improvements to drainage and repairs to internal access roads. A further $420,000 from the Drought Communities Fund saw the construction of the day stalls and powered camping to the overnight camping area.
Other works include:
• New training stable complex - three
out of four stable blocks have been constructed with internal electrical and plumbing fit-outs underway. Stable panels are being fabricated, with installation planned for later this month.
• New services – new sewer, water and electrical services underway. This will be ongoing through
to end of project with commissioning expected end of 2023.
• Undercover equestrian arena –main portal frame erected, tiered concrete seating near completion, erection of southern steel awning for shaded spectator seating installed, concreting continuing throughout August.
Mickey Sahni, the new general manager of Bupa Ballina, believes it his Indian culture that helped nurture his passion for looking after the elderly.
“I’ve been working in aged care coming up to 14 years now,” he said.
“I’ve just moved over from New Zealand, working for Bupa New Zealand.
“I absolutely love being in aged care.
“Coming in from an Indian background, we look after our elderly parents and grandparents.”
With his wealth of experience in aged care, business management and quality improvement, Mickey is looking forward to the challenges and triumphs
that lie ahead with running Bupa Aged Care at Ballina.
“I am learning the Australian way, it is pretty much similar to New Zealand but the compliances are a little different,” he said.
Mickey understands the continual challenges that lie around Covid and staff shortages, but is not deterred in his goal to continue the care he knows Bupa residents are accustomed to.
“I love to work with staff who are passionate about what they do and from what I have seen so far, everyone is very caring and supportive of the residents and relatives in the home,” he said.
“We have started our new recruitment campaign and are always on the lookout for quality
people to join our team.”
With his wife and three children, 10, 8 and 10 weeks old still living in New Zealand while they tie up loose ends before they make the permanent
move across the ditch, Mickey is keeping busy. He is focusing on reinforcing the first-rate care and championing Bupa’s ongoing initiative to improve the quality of
its care around residents living with dementia.
“Eventually, I would also like to see the home becoming a community hub of care, where residents and
local people alike can enjoy the benefits of networking and mutual support, in a setting that provides expert residential, dementia and end-of-life care,” he said.
Clarence Valley residents will need to keep their eyes peeled to pick up local scenery and faces in a new television series partially shot in the area, which aired for the first time this week.
Some of the shooting of the television series The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart took place in South Grafton, Southgate and Ulmarra early last year.
South Grafton’s iconic Post Office Hotel was converted into the Bluff Hotel and residents took in the conversion of their “local” into a Northern Territory watering hole. Hotel publican Terry Kelly said a few people had reminded him in recent days the show was about to air.
“It was that long ago, I hadn’t given it a thought until a few people brought it up in the last few days,” he said.
“It was quite an eyeopener to see what they had to do for about seven minutes of footage.”
An old timber house on a sugar cane farm near the ferry at Southgate was used for a number of scenes in the seven-hour mini-series.
And the streetscape of
Ulmarra was turned into a Victorian town for the purposes of the drama.
Filming for the show began in October 2021 and continued around NSW and the Northern Territory until late last year.
The show stars Hollywood superstar Sigourney Weaver and Australian acting bigwigs Asher Keddie and Leah Purcell.
The Lost Flowers of
whose violent childhood casts a dark shadow over her adult life.
After a family tragedy in which she loses both her abusive father and beloved mother in a mysterious fire, nine-year-old Alice is taken to live with her grandmother June on a flower farm, where she learns that there are secrets within secrets about her and her family’s past.
Alice Hart is an adaption of Aussie author Holly Ringland’s 2018 novel that tells the story of a young girl, Alice Hart,
Set against Australia’s breathtaking, natural landscape, and with native wildflowers and plants providing
a way to express the inexpressible, this
building to an emotional climax as Alice finds
Carey plays the title role, with Frankie Adams, Alexander England, Charlie Vickers), Tilda Cobham-Hervey, and Alyla Browne as young Alice.
The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart is produced by Made Up Stories, Amazon Studios and Endeavor Content.
enthralling family drama spans decades, as Alice grows from a child into a woman. Her journey is epic and visceral,
herself fighting for her life against a man she loves.
As well as the main stars Alycia Debnam-
The first three shows of the series launched exclusively on Prime Video in Australia on August 4 and a new episode will screen weekly.
The new Tweed Valley Hospital and Kingscliff Ambulance Station are timely developments in a state which is struggling to keep up with health needs.
NSW public hospitals remain under sustained pressure, with a record number of ambulance responses and critically ill patients presenting to emergency departments - according to the latest Bureau of Health Information (BHI) Healthcare Quarterly report (January – March 2023).
Despite an increase in the number of triage category 2 patients presenting to emergency departments, wait times in NSW public hospitals were down for the third consecutive quarter.
Throughout the first quarter of 2023, there were 770,089 attendances to NSW public emergency departments.
Of these, 113,637
were patients with an imminently lifethreatening condition (triage category 2) – the highest number of patients recorded in this category since BHI began reporting.
Despite the increase
in more complex presentations, the majority of patients (67.4%) started their treatment on time, while almost eight in 10 patients (77.7%) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff
within the 30-minute benchmark time.
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said the results showed the state’s health system still faced major challenges. There was a record 347,720 ambulance
responses, the highest of any quarter since 2010.
There were 10,868 life-threatening cases (P1A responses) for NSW Ambulance which was slightly down on the previous quarter but still up 70.3% on
pre-pandemic levels.
“There are signs the performance of the NSW health system is starting to recover from the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Park said.
“That’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of each and every one of our essential healthcare workers.
“But the health system is facing unprecedented demand and has suffered from a lack of investment in its frontline work force.
Mr Park said the NSW Government was in the process of rolling out a broad suite of initiatives to improve patient access to care and ease pressure on the state’s busy emergency departments.
This included the establishment of 25 Urgent Care Services across the state to help reduce the number of unnecessary ED presentations among children and aged care residents.
By Sarah Waters
Patients, their families and carers living in Tweed, Byron and Murwillumbah communities will have more options for timely, tailored healthcare with the establishment of a new urgent care service in the region.
A new Rapid Outreach Service, which aims to reduce unnecessary trips to the emergency
department, is expected to be operational by the end of the year.
The model will allow patients to be treated at home, create better links between the hospital and primary care systems and allow people to receive urgent care for injuries and illnesses when a GP is unavailable.
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said people who visit EDs could receive more timely and
tailored care within a community setting.
“We know there is a high and ongoing demand for emergency care in the Tweed region, which is why we’re investing heavily in building the new Tweed Valley Hospital and expanding the capacity of health services in the area,” Mr Park said. Care will be provided at no cost to the patient and will include access to
pathology, radiology and allied health services.
The Rapid Outreach Service will operate seven days a week and patients can be referred through several avenues, including via Healthdirect, NSW Ambulance or emergency department staff.
The model will include access to care from GPs, nurses, allied health clinicians and extended care paramedics.
It can also link in with other services such as Aboriginal Health Workers and Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs Services. Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the service would boost access to health care in the region.
“By providing care and support in person in the patient’s own home or aged care facility, as well as through virtual care
platforms, it removes the burden of having to travel to hospital or the GP for healthcare,” Ms Saffin said.
The Rapid Outreach Service is being delivered as part of the NSW Government’s $124 million program over two years to deliver 25 urgent care services.
The NSW Government expects all 25 Urgent Care Services to be operational by mid-2025.
One Lismore business
owner knows there is a bad smell coming and it is not from any lingering food water.
Not wanting to be named, this business person runs a company that pumps out septic tanks in the Lismore City Council area.
“We received an email from Lismore City Council on the 28th June this year, saying our charges for tankered waste were increasing by 150%,” he said.
“These new charges were starting on 1st July. No warning, no consultation, nothing.”
The email stated that Septic Waste Disposal Charges within the Lismore LGA which had been at $39.50 in the last fnancial year would now be $104.00.
For mixed loads or portable toilet waste the charge had risen from $88.50 per kilolitre to $221.50 per kilolitre.
“The Council only provides sewerage for the towns,” said the business owner.
“Once out of the town limits, most people are on septic so this will affect a lot of people.”
Lismore City Council was contacted regarding the increase and a spokesperson responded.
“Septage contaminated loads are highly concentrated and require extensive treatment,
resulting in high costs associated with this treatment,” he said.
“The recent increases in the septic waste disposal charge and the mixed load or portable toilet waste charge brings Lismore City Council in line with other councils across the Northern Rivers.
“All new fees and charges for this fnancial year were put on public exhibition for feedback,
along with the budget, on 17 May 2023.”
The Northern Rivers Times did a quick survey of tankered septic charges across the Northern Rivers and the results are shown below:
• Ballina Shire Council - $113.00 per load (as opposed to per kilolitre)
• Byron Shire Council - $47 per kilolitre
• Kyogle Council -
$65 per kilolitre
• Richmond Valley Council - $69 per kilolitre
It is obvious Lismore City Council’s septic tankered waste disposal charges are now the most expensive on the Northern Rivers.
With this massive increase of charges, the business owner has had no choice but to pass this cost onto consumers.
“People will start
pumping (their waste) down the paddock,” he said.
“People have been caught doing this and I wouldn’t dare do it.
“I’d lose the lot. We have disposal spots that council have authorised.
“Some say they will dig a hole and solve the problem that way.”
A local TAFE NSW graduate Holly Oates has sharpened her foristry skills in preparation to step into a skills battlefeld with his industry peers in Melbourne this month.
The 17-year-old Alstonville local said her anticipation was building after months of mentorship from her TAFE NSW teachers and guidance at her workplace.
“Ever since I did work experience in Year 10 at Alstonville Florist, I’ve known foristry is something I want to pursue. I’ve really enjoyed gaining hands on experience throughout my studies and in my day-to-day work and am excited to be able to showcase my skills on
the big stage soon,” Ms Oates said.
“It was my teacher who suggested I compete in WorldSkills, and I haven’t looked back since. The support from my teachers and fellow competitors has been invaluable. I recently visited TAFE NSW Tamworth for a training course which helped me hone my skills in cutting fowers, making decorative displays, and arranging bouquets, and I’ve also been working with my boss on different techniques.”
The WorldSkills Australia 2023 National Championships will see over 500 vocational students converge in Melbourne over three days with their eye on a coveted gold medal.
Holly is one of many TAFE NSW students to be competing in the national competition.
WorldSkills hosts regional, national, and international competitions which celebrate excellence and showcase vocational educational and training. Winners from the Nationals are in the running to be selected for the Australian Skillaroos team to compete against more than 75 countries. The international championships have run every two years since 1950.
TAFE NSW Executive Director Education and Skills, Dr Raf Marcellino, said: “WorldSkills is Australia’s largest vocational education and
excellence competition.”
“These highly skilled students have earned the right to represent Australia after besting all other local talent at the regional WorldSkills competition in Sydney,” Dr Marcellino said.
“The ultimate goal for
Holly will be to win a gold medal, which could earn her a place on the Australian Skillaroos team to compete with the world’s best at the 47th WorldSkills International Competition fnals to be held in France in 2024.”
“WorldSkills
competitions provide TAFE NSW students with amazing and life-changing learning opportunities.
“WorldSkills creates an exciting, interactive, and engaging environment for participants. The WorldSkills competition lifts their experience beyond technical mastery to embrace important life-long skills that will help them succeed individually and provide Australia with a worldclass skilled workforce.”
The WorldSkills Australia 2023 National Championships will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 17-19 August.
Our Kids is delighted to announce that the Seaton Foundation has generously donated over $37,000 worth of equipment to Lismore Base Hospital’s Special Care Nursery, Children’s Ward and Women’s Care Unit.
The equipment consists of a Humidicrib, a Coaxial Ophthalmoscope, a new manikin and Resusright Juno training monitor, and a Bilibed Blanket.
“This is a tremendous investment to Our Kids and to our local families,” Rebekka Battista, Our Kids Fundraising Coordinator, said.
“The Seaton Foundation is proud to be able to support Our Kids by providing much needed equipment,”
Belinda Seaton, Seaton Foundation Founder, said.
“We have been supporting Our Kids for
the last three years and love how our partnership helps so many families in our region.”
Our Kids works with the Nursing Unit Mangers in the paediatric department of each local hospital from Grafton to Tweed, to assess which items are most needed.
Through donations, bequests, regular giving, workplace giving and events, monies and awareness are raised to help purchase equipment on the ‘Our Kids
Wishlist’.
Since 2001, Our Kids, through the generosity of the community, has purchased over $2.3 million worth of equipment for local hospitals. This equipment helps keep our kids local when needing medical care.
If you or your business would like to partner with Our Kids, please email info@ourkids. org,au or phone the Our Kids Offce on 6620 2705.
NEW COMMUNITY GRANT TO FUND RESOURCE RECOVERY INITIATIVES IN BALLINA SHIRE
Each year Ballina Shire Council will allocate $50,000 to the Resource Recovery Community Grant program.
The program will consider projects and initiatives that align with Council’s resource recovery strategic objectives to improve community waste minimisation, reduce waste to landfll and/or recover resources.
Applications for the program will be open year-round, with a limit of one application per individual, community group or organisation considered per year.
Council’s Resource Recovery Education Offcer, Samala Heart, said their team is thrilled to launch the new community grant.
“This is about rewarding innovation and fuelling resource recovery in our community,” said Ms Heart.
“We’re encouraging ideas big and small. We know that signifcant change can come from innovative waste minimisation and resource recovery initiatives, particularly at the grassroots level.”
Examples of resource recovery initiatives supported by the program could include waste minimisationbased workshops and reuse, repair, or recycling schemes.
Applications can be made online at ballina.nsw.gov.au/
Teams crawl through tubes, run over mountains and through hurdles; they make up war cries and navigate with their teams in oversized pants or infatable tyres to win the night.
Youth groups and local young people converged on Evans River K-12 school last Friday night to take part in an energetic and
over 100 but one team member said they have had as many as 300 at
youth ministry that has been visiting schools, churches and youth
of an event young people can relate to, such as Kickoff, for the last 50 years.
“Today’s youth are facing more challenges than any other generation in the past,” their website states.
“More than ever, they are seeking authenticity and truth.
competitive night called Kickoff, run by the faith-based group Word of Life.
The kids came from Ballina, Byron Bay, Casino, and Lismore to conquer the obstacle courses, work with a team and generally enjoy a fun-flled night, while also hearing the gospel of Jesus.
Numbers were easily
their Kickoff event.
Word of Life is a global
groups with their gospel message in the context
Saturday 12 August 2023, 11am – 3pm
Mantra on Salt Beach, Gunnamatta Avenue, Kingscliff
Connect: with our hospitals and health teams and learn about the skills needed to join us.
Find: jobs, training and volunteering opportunities at hospitals and services in Tweed, Murwillumbah and Byron, including Allied Health, Aboriginal Health, Mental Health, Support Services, Nursing and Midwifery, and the new Tweed Valley Hospital.
Seeking: cleaners, administration staff, nurses, doctors, and more.
You
“Word of Life Youth Ministry is reaching today’s youth whose needs constantly change with biblical principles that never change.”
LP1305
The time has come to install the new dean for Grafton’s Christ Church Cathedral.
The Rev. Canon Naomi Cooke has been appointed the ninth Dean of Grafton and will take up the position on Saturday.
I have decided I like the smell of freshly painted walls.
It indicates a completion of a renovation, the fnal step to a lovely new room.
Since we had moved back into our house the vanity and toilet rooms were still in need of fxing and for many months we have been staring at bare plastered walls while getting down to business.
This week our painter had a free day and was able to give us some time to fnally give those areas the coat of paint they needed
He has to come back to paint the doors and some trim, but we have learnt
to be patient with the workload of our tradies. Where we live we are surrounded by cane felds behind us and two houses up to the side of us.
Last season the cane behind us was burnt, and as expected, there were a few overlooked items that got burnt with it, along with, I believe a gas cylinder, if the blue fame that shot out was anything to go by. This weekend just gone, they burnt the paddock to the side, and while we did hear a bang we didn’t expect, there were no large blue fames.
I believe, and I would be happy for a local cane
farmer to correct me, but this season will have burnt off the last of the ‘food cane’?
That is, the paddocks that had cane growing in them when the foods hit.
So after this season, all the cane paddocks will be ‘clean’ of food debris and farmers can rest easy, not expecting any nasty explosions or burnt surprises.
If that is the case, then I am so happy for our farmers.
It is another step for them back onto the road of normality after what we experienced 17 months ago.
Little steps
Last Saturday night saw Mad Dog Boxing’s Sunny Maclean win the interstate title between NSW and Queensland.
Her appointment was announced by the Bishop of Grafton, the Right Rev Dr. Murray Harvey.
The position of Dean is a senior appointment within the diocese, having responsibility for Christ Church Cathedral and being a member of the Senior Leadership of the Diocese.
“Canon Naomi has a strong sense of vocation to this task,” Bishop Murray said.
“She brings more than two decades of ministry experience to her new role as Dean.”
“Since 2016 she has been School Chaplain at Bishop Druitt College, an Anglican School in the Diocese of Grafton
at Coffs Harbour and a member of the Cathedral Chapter since 2020.
“During her time as chaplain Naomi has offered outstanding leadership within Bishop Druitt College, as well as being a pastorally caring priest.”
Dean Naomi has been instrumental in developing a Reconciliation Action Plan for the diocese and building reconciliation with First Nations communities. Her installation will be
held in Christ Church Cathedral on Saturday, beginning at 11am.
Canon Naomi said she was looking forward to her new role.
“I am excited to join the vibrant community of Christ Church Cathedral,” she said. “I hope to engage with the community across wider Grafton and the diocese in supporting and leading the Cathedral parish’s commitment to compassionate action for the common good.”
The young Woodburn lad is pictured in the centre with trainer Scott Smith and Ray Chatterton who helped work Sunny’s corner during the fight. Photo contributed
Set in picturesque Edenville, Edenville Equestrian Centre provides lesson for all ages and levels of rider. The equine facility includes one arena, with a raised, covered seating area for viewing. The round yard is situated next to our working equitation course. We also have fully equipped stables and day yards. We have 16 hand selected school riding horses to cater to all ranges of abilities. Students are taught a holistic approach to ricing this includes how to tack up, maintain and feed your horse. We run classes 7 days a week 8am - 4pm. We also run Saddle Club on Saturdays and Sundays for younger riders. We are fully insured and have fully qualified coaches. We encourage our students to set their own goals, including attending shows and events and the sta fully support students in their goals.
Please contact us on 0266335321 or through our FB
TWEED
ShireCouncil have halted a development application for a 13-lot subdivision, which includes 11 residential lots, at 40 Creek Street, Hastings Point.
Council voted six to one in favour of Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry’s motion to ‘refuse’ the application at its August 3 Planning Committee Meeting.
The site has been the subject of extensive development assessment processes, site analysis, fooding studies and biodiversity investigations.
Developers have had a long history of unsuccessful subdivision applications.
About 40 per cent of the site is zoned R1 General Residential and the rest is zoned Environmental Wetlands.
The frst subdivision application in 2010 for 45 lots was refused and another application was withdrawn in 2017 for 17 lots.
An application was submitted again in 2019 with the proposal been amended numerous times to address council’s concerns about biodiversity impact minimisation, habitat restoration measures and fooding assessments.
The 2019 application was given in principle support.
Council offcers
recommended the most recent development application be approved in an extensive report to councillors.
The report stated: ‘the proposal is supported by a detailed food assessment which concludes that the proposal will not result in a signifcant worsening of food impacts on residential properties in the area’.
While, the site contains areas of high biodiversity and ecologically sensitive land, the report said the development footprint is located in an area of the site that has previously been modifed and contains managed pastureland.
A detailed Habitat Restoration and Biodiversity Management Plan was submitted with the application.
Council was also dedicated ‘lot 13’ for conservation purposes.
During the planning meeting, Mayor Chris Cherry said she was against the application ‘with a very long history’ despite initially supporting it in 2019.
“I gave it conditional support based on the development application not increasing its development footprint,” Ms Cherry said.
“Of the proposal in 2019 only three of the lots were intercepting into the 75m ecological buffer zone, now I think seven of them are.
“A lot of changes have been made, but the biggest thing that has happened since that interim in principal support that was given (in 2019) is the 2022 foods.
“That has been such a big wake-up call for all of us.
“We heard today from the fooding and planning experts just how much consideration should be given to the location (on Cudgera Creek estuary) to the impact of storm surge in a climate change future that we are most defnitely going to see.
“It is imperative that we take this seriously… we can’t keep saying ‘it’ll be ok.”
Ms Cherry said the food mitigation measures put forward in the proposal were ‘simply not good planning’.
She specifcally stated a safe evacuation route had not been properly considered in the event of a food.
Councillor Nola Firth echoed the mayor’s concerns about fooding and said the environmental impact could not be ignored.
“This is a very important piece of land environmentally,” Ms Firth said.
“It’s right beside the Cudgen Nature Reserve, which is managed by NSW National Parks, part of it is zoned environmentally protected wetlands and littoral rainforest.
“It’s got high conservation area on the biodiversity values map, it’s a site that has key fsh habitat, it has threatened fauna and bird species.
Ms Firth also raised concerns about the
development footprint extending into the 75m and 50m ecological buffer zones of the coastal wetlands and removing 340m2 of koala habitat.
She said Hastings Points locals would also be impacted by the development and they’ve been fghting against it for years.
Councillor Warren Polglase, who was the only councillor to support the proposal, said the case may end up in court.
“I support this application,” Mr Polglase said.
“The council gave in principle support for this proposal to be able to proceed.
“Once upon a time a 40-lot subdivision was allowable on that site because of the zoning, it’s now been boiled down to 11 residential lots.
Mr Polglase said the slight ‘encroachments’ on ecological buffer zones was true, but not over the top and council had accepted these in the past.
He also said other points of view needed to be considered and was somewhat dismissive about ‘all the stories on climate change.”
Hastings Point residents have recently voiced their concerns about fooding in the area if the proposal were to go ahead.
By Sarah Waters
SCHOOL students in the Northern Rivers are starting their day with improved focus, engagement and emotional regulation - thanks to a healthy breakfast.
More than two million breakfasts have been served to students in NSW, as part of Foodbank’s Breakfast 4 Health program.
The program has been running in schools across NSW since 2019 to
ensure students can start each school day with a nutritious meal.
The NSW government recently injected $8 million into the program to expand it to more schools and help ease the cost-of-living pressures on families.
There are currently 500 schools which take part in the program.
Among them are a large number of Northern Rivers schools including Banora Point High School, Ballina Coast High School, Kyogle
Public School, Lismore South Public School, Murwillumbah East Public School and Tweed Heads South Public School.
Over the next four years it is estimated that 1000 schools across the state will adopt the program.
Foodbank, Australia’s largest food relief charity, states over 763,000 households in NSW and ACT went hungry in the last 12 months due to lack of funds.
With the growing cost of living pressures, 23 per cent of households in NSW are now classifed as ‘severely food insecure’.
Eighty per cent of schools which served a wholesome breakfast to students reported an increase in attendance and 89 per cent saw an increase in class engagement on days the program was run.
The School Breakfast 4 Health program has also to helped reduce absenteeism
and productivity in the classroom.
NSW Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car recently celebrated the success of the program.
Mr Minns said he always wanted to address the cost-of-living crisis and expanding the program was an important step to help families.
“Making sure children are getting the most out of their time at school is my number one priority,”
he said.
“This starts by ensuring that they are not hungry in the classroom.”
Minister Car said it was an investment in children’s education and also helped struggling families.
Schools interested in participating in the program can apply directly to Foodbank via its website and are assessed according to need.
Residents interested in connecting over their shared passion for environmentally friendly projects are encouraged to attend the frst Community Action Network workshop at Pottsville this Saturday.
The free workshop comes after Tweed Shire Council this week published the fnal report for the Climate Ready Tweed project which highlighted popular themes from residents keen to take action on climate change.
The report by Griffth University represents the most comprehensive baseline assessment of community perspectives on climate action ever completed in the Tweed Shire.
Funded through a Federal Government grant, the broader project involved an environmental education program for 72 upper primary students, and the Tweed Eco Festival in November 2022, attended by more than 500 people.
From November 2022 to May 2023, Griffth University received 252 responses from Tweed residents on a comprehensive climate action survey and interviewed 29
people to understand their experiences in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, dealing with climate-related disasters and ideas for responding to climate change. Fifty
change.
“This Saturday (5 August), Council is hosting a Community Action Network event at Pottsville representing a practical opportunity for new and existing community members and groups to share their passions for environmentally friendly projects, collaborate and build our collective capacity for action,” Ms Firestone said.
have gained a wealth of insight from the community through the Climate Ready Tweed project. What we’ve heard again and again is that people want to make more connections within the community and have opportunities to build on each other’s strengths, skills and appetite for action,” Ms Firestone said.
people participated in co-design workshops to develop community-led responses to climate
Griffth University’s
fnal report for the project highlighted key barriers to community climate action,
namely concern that actions are not able to solve environmental problems, lack of trust in authorities, actions are too expensive and environmentally friendly options are unavailable. Enablers of climate action include climate education, awareness raising, capacity building and collaboration.
Council’s program leader climate and sustainability Debbie Firestone said Council was wasting no time in responding to the recommendations of the report.
“It’s also an opportunity to progress ideas developed in Griffth’s co-design sessions. The free workshop will feature guest facilitator Jo Taranto from Good for the Hood, sharing insights about what has been successful in mobilising net zero neighbourhoods and place-based community action.”
The Griffth University report highlighted that tapping into existing networks was a key enabler for engaging the community in a collaborative way for climate action. The Community Action Network intends to connect quarterly in different parts of the Tweed to build on momentum and energy generated by the Climate Ready Tweed project.
“We’re so grateful to
“In the Griffth University workshops, people began to develop ideas they’re most passionate about – we want to support those community-led ideas and help bring them to life.” Register to attend the free Community Action Network Workshop on Saturday 5 August at Pottsville Beach Community Hall from 9 am to 11 am at community-actionnetwork.eventbrite. com.au/ or for more information contact education offcer –sustainability and environment Jane Moad on 02 6670 2400. Read the Griffth University Climate Ready Tweed fnal report and fnd other research outputs and resources at tweed.nsw.gov.au/ climate-change.
Community perspectives on climate change to shape future action
New report highlights popular themes for climate action in TweedResidents shared their views on climate change as part of the Climate Ready Project run in conjunction with Tweed Shire Council and Griffth University. Taking part in the Climate Ready Tweed workshop. Image courtesy Salvador Cantellano.
Tweed Shire Council has downgraded the blue-green algae alert at Clarrie Hall Dam from amber to green.
While testing by the NATA-accredited Tweed Laboratory Centre has confrmed algae levels in dam water have decreased, algae species capable of produc-ing toxins continue to be detected.
Council’s Water and Wastewater Operations Manager Brie Jowett said while it was good news the blue-green algae alert had been downgraded, untreated water in Clarrie Hall Dam and its upstream and downstream tributaries might still be harmful to humans and animals.
“Council always takes a cautionary approach with blue-green algae – we con-tinue to advise residents and visitors not to come into contact with dam water, not to eat fsh from the dam and to keep animals away,” Mrs Jowett said.
“Never drink untreated dam or river water at any time. Don’t water livestock and other animals with untreated water from the dam and its upstream and downstream tributaries.
“If you come into
contact with the algae, rinse it off with fresh water and seek medical advice if symptoms appear.”
Blue-green algae warning signs remain in place at public access
processes, tap water throughout the Tweed remains safe to drink and bathe in,” Mrs Jowett said.
“The processes remove algae and potential toxins, alongside taste
points to the dam, alerting the public to the risks.
Affected water appears to have a green paint-like scum on the water, near the edges, or greenish clumps throughout the water. It can have a musty odour.
Council issued a green alert for blue-green algae at the dam in November 2022 and raised the alert to amber in May 2023.
Mrs Jowett said the Tweed’s tap water remained safe.
“Due to our robust water treatment
and odour compounds, ensuring our tap water continues to be treated to a standard that is well within Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.”
Lab scientists will continue to test untreated dam water twice a week. Untreated river water that supplies the Tweed’s water treatment plants at Uki, Bray Park and Tyalgum is being tested weekly.
Find out more about Clarrie Hall Dam at tweed.nsw.gov.au/ clarrie-hall-dam.
Flooding can mean devastating loss and ongoing hardship. But it can also be a time when communities demonstrate a spirit of enormous resilience and uni-ty.
To mark the signifcance of the 2022 foods for the Clarence Valley region, lo-cal artists were commissioned to create a series of public artworks.
Nationally recognised artist Al Stark created the murals on the pylons under the new Harwood Bridge adjacent to Yamba Road, renowned street artist ‘Nitsua’ painted the Lawrence Water Tower, and about 20 people produced artworks on plywood panels for the planter boxes in Prince Street, Grafton.
The $100,000 project was funded by a one-off NSW Government grant target-ed at Northern Rivers councils for activities that commemorate the February-March 2022 food events.
“The challenge for this project was it had to be delivered quickly,”
Clarence Valley Council General Manager Laura Black said. “Other similar projects can take up to 18 months from start to fnish. This was a unique opportunity that was offered to us with targeted funds rather than the usual
application pro-cess, which meant we had a four-month deadline to complete the project.
“The Lawrence Water Tower and Harwood
invitation was sent via Council’s social media and Notice-board newsletter to all artists in the Clarence Valley to participate in the pro-ject. Both murals and all 20 panels were completed by July.
Bridge pylons had both been pre-viously identifed in community consultation as ideal locations for public art-works. So when this grant was offered we were fortunate to already have these suitable locations ready to go.
“It’s great to now see these landmarks come to life with such incredible works of art.”
In May an open
Council worked with Transport for NSW through the approval process for the bridge pylon artworks, with local artist Al Stark selected to paint the iconic lo-cation due to his level of experience and proven reliability to deliver a high standard on budget and within a timeframe. The four sentinels represent the local fsh, birds, animals and plants. Check out more of Al Stark’s artworks here https:// creativeroad.com.au/ artist/al-stark/
Meanwhile Nitsua, who also recently painted the mural of late Yaegl elder Un-cle Ron Heron, painted the Lawrence Water Tower, which was upgraded by Council
in 2022. Students at Lawrence Public School helped conceptualise ideas for the mural, which depicts “a child gazing up towards the moon with the vibrant plumage of the Rainbow Lorikeet soaring through the valley creat-ing trails of rainbow dust and a symbol of the eternal fow of the powerful Clarence
River winding through the valley out to sea”.
Watch this stunning start to fnish time lapse video by Simon Hughes Photography of the Lawrence Water Tower artwork https:// creativeroad.com.au/ artist/al-stark/ The Lawrence Water Tower artwork has already caught the
attention of the popular Australian Silo Art Trail website https://www. australiansiloarttrail. com/about, putting the Clarence Valley on the map for many interstate travellers. Check out more of Nistua’s artworks here https:// www.nitsua.com.au/
“The water tower is yet another fantastic attraction to pull travellers off the highway and into the hinterland,” Ms Black said. “Our Tourism team often feld calls from interstate travellers asking whether the Clarence Valley has any silo or water tower art, so it’s great to now be able to tell them that we do.
“For locals, hopefully this collection of artistic chronicles of the 2022 food event helps to further develop shared identity, collective memory and connection to place.” Click here for more information on how public art is managed to par-ticipate in the Clarence Valley https://www.clarence. nsw.gov.au/Council/ Governance/Policies/ Public-art-policy
Title: A Daisy in the Field
Author: Annie Chandler-Cummings
Price: $22.95
Publisher: Shawline
Publishing
By Samantha ElleyOver the next four weeks of reviews I will be looking at the Flower Quartet series by Western Australian author Annie Chandler-Cummings, based around a family of four women, who span three generations.
is rst book centres around the youngest member of the family, Daisy Tate.
Daisy is studying horticulture at university and is literally living her dream, running a garden centre named Daisy’s Dream.
She lives with her sister Poppy, mother Rose and grandmother Lily, (do you see the pattern?) and is engaged to Kyle, her childhood sweetheart.
On Tuesday, August 1st, the Council’s inaugural Byron Shire Community Awards took place at the Ocean Shores Country Club, where the remarkable efforts of nine local legends were offcially recognized.
The community showed great support by submitting just over 60 nominations across the nine award categories, acknowledging the impactful work of both individuals and local organizations.
Among the honourees was Louise O’Connell, renowned for her tireless and inspiring contributions to the Byron Bay Community Centre and Fletcher Street Cottage. Byron Shire Mayor, Michael Lyon, expressed his admiration for Louise, describing her as one of the most talented, hard-working, generous, and selfess individuals he has encountered. Her unwavering dedication to helping people experiencing homelessness in the community set her apart.
He has been seconded to the army and has to spend six months overseas.
While there, however, he su ers an injury that he feels will be permanent and he won’t be able to live the full life he had planned.
It makes him re-evaluate everything, including his relationship with Daisy.
Meanwhile, Daisy has issues of her own, mainly in the form of a handsome professor who wants to help further her studies.
e question is, can the strong bond Daisy and Kyle have forged, overcome the outside inuences of life experiences that seem to be taking them on separate paths?
Annie Chandler-Cummings lives 400 kms north of Perth in a country town where the beach is on her doorstep, and life with her two dachshunds, Sosaj and BIskit, is almost idyllic.
e perfect place to be inspired to write romance.
You can order your copy from shawlinepublishing.com.au
creative for 20 years, successfully creating and maintaining the highly successful regional dance business, The Cassettes. Through lockdowns, foods and fres, Marissa has led dozens of community workshops and has taught dance to over 3000 Byron Shire residents of all ages and abilities, bringing creativity and fun into so many lives!
The Mayor emphasized that Louise’s unique quality is not merely working alongside people but empowering them through her resourcefulness and compassion. Her signifcant contributions made her the deserving recipient of the 2023 Community Member of Byron Shire award.
During Local Government Week, the awards ceremony took place at a new mid-year schedule, deviating from the traditional date of January 25th, before Australia Day. The decision proved to be positive, evident from the large number of nominations received, showcasing the impactful work that truly makes a difference in the Byron Shire community. The Mayor appreciated the opportunity to refect on the outstanding contributions made by individuals and organizations during this time.
In conclusion, the Byron Shire Community Awards celebrated the exceptional efforts of local heroes, making a signifcant difference in the lives of others and bringing positive change to the Byron Shire community. Award winners across all categories included:
• Creativity Award –Marissa Treichel (The Cassettes) Marisa’s nomination applauded her work as a professional choreographer, dance leader and community
• Caring for Country Award – Tiago Neto Tiago’s nomination acknowledged his work organising events for young people at the YHA Byron Bay including an Aboriginal art event with Munu and Aboriginal cultural awareness with Delta Kay, among others. In creating awareness about Aboriginal culture, Tiago emphasises the importance of caring for natural resources through explanations from local elders. Tiago is a role model for environmental care for the next generation – he demonstrates how small actions can make a big impact.
• Access and Inclusion Award – Karen Gross (the Paddock Project) Karen’s nomination recognised her disability support work both in education and with Social Futures for 17 years. Karen saw an opportunity to utilise the Paddock Project to create meaningful employment opportunities for local people living with disability.
Thanks to Karen’s model the Paddock now employs more than 20 participants who are engaged in work and work preparation programs. Workers are involved in all aspects of the garden including seed sewing and harvesting fresh produce.
• Contribution to Health and Wellbeing Award –Queer Family
The Queer Family’s nomination was for initiation of the Queer Information and Referral Project and were able to directly reach around 2000 people through social events, workshops, and support.
In a regional area with few mental health professionals specifcally trained in lgbtqia+ issues, upskilling local professionals is a signifcant method of creating a larger support network for the queer community.
• Giving Back to Byron Shire Award – Sama Balson (Women’s Village Collective) Sama’s nomination applauded her efforts to
fnd the Women’s Village Collective in 2020 as a grass roots movement which has grown to be a registered charitable organisation making waves in the community. The Collective aims to prevent women’s homelessness by providing affordable housing solutions, links to services, support referrals, connections, and empowerment for women. Sama has made a positive impact on the lives of women in the community and has been there to lend a hand in times of crisis and uncertainty.
• Open Award – Aya Harral-Haines (Turtle Rescue Superstar)
Aya’s nomination celebrated the work of this 5-year-old who has successfully raised over $600 in donations through cup cake and garage sales for the Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue Inc. Her contribution will assist with the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of turtles! Aya’s efforts will hopefully inspire people from all groups to support local organisations who are driving environmental change and education.
• Community Initiative of Byron Shire – The Repair Café Post-Flood Initiative by the Shedding Community Workshop. The Repair Café Post-Flood initiative’s nomination acknowledged the volunteer based, trauma-informed and community-focussed response to the 2022 Northern Rivers foods –organised by the Shedding Community Workshop. The initiative coordinated teams of volunteers to collect, assess, clean, repair, test, donate and deliver food damaged items to the community, free of charge. The nomination applauded the huge range of items repaired over six weeks that resulted in over 20
tonnes of waste being rescued from landfll. Shedding Inc and The Repair Café continue to share the unique knowledge and experience they gained during the food recovery with communities and resilience networks all over NSW.
• Young Community Member of Byron Shire – Zali Spinner (Main Arm food response)
Zali’s nomination recognised her efforts to coordinate deliveries of food, water and medication to people living in isolated areas during the 2022 foods.
Zali is recognised as a devoted and committed member of the Main Arm community and a respected voice for young people. Her optimism, passion and can-do attitude continues to inspire others.
• Community Member of Byron Shire – Louise O’Connell
Louise’s nomination recognised the remarkable work involved in running the Fletcher Street Cottage service which offers ongoing support for people experiencing homelessness in the Byron Shire. Louise works endlessly to arrange doctors, social workers, food, showers, and hairdressers for those in need.
Louise’s work has been described as empowering, resourceful, compassionate and nothing short of remarkable. She has volunteered countless hours to help those who need it most and is committed to creating a safe and welcoming place at Fletcher Street Cottage in Byron Bay. The 2023 Byron Shire Community Awards were judged by an evaluation panel.
Panellists who identifed close relationships to nominees, or had made a nomination, abstained from voting in that category.
Watch your language…by Nigel Dawe
One of Australia’s most renowned glass artists takes inspiration from our region
The Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre will present a new exhibition titled In the Glow of Green by leading Australian glass artist Clare Belfrage from Friday 4 August 2023.
Exclusive to the Tweed Regional Gallery, the exhibition is the outcome of Belfrage having undertaken a two-week residency at the Gallery’s on-site studio, the Nancy Fairfax Artist in Residence Studio.
THE frst break I ever got in my working life literally came after uttering something in a lift I didn’t realise had my company’s CEO in it. After some quasi-offcious manager made a vacuous comment about communication, I blurted: “It’s nothing more than the sending of a message via mutually understood medium with some effect.” Which was ironically a defnition I’d somehow retained from high school.
Before the last lucid syllable of my impromptu disclaimer had settled into silence, I had a business card thrust into my hand with the request, “Talk to my EA and come up and see me for a chat.” A chat that led me to performing a role in a strategy and planning division for the next 18-months.
I don’t make mention of the above life-altering lift pitch to big note myself; I mention it merely to highlight the way a refned, if not a welltimed use of words can cut through any irksome bind caused by having to compete with tedious sods that hog everyone’s attention by waffing on about nothing.
It wasn’t until I travelled overseas though, to countries where English wasn’t spoken that I realised what communicating effectively really meant. The things you refect upon when you’re at the mercy of a language that you are not fuent in. It occurred to me that you master a language when you utilise it in a way that fully transcends the functional usage of it. So, from being able to say I’m hot or hungry to being able to use wordplay, pun and metaphor is the absolute hallmark of true
competency.
Mexico’s only winner of a Nobel Prize for Literature, Octavio Paz once said, “True enough, we cannot get outside of our language, but this language that imprisons us is also a window, a lookout post on the world, on our fellows, and on other languages.” Arguably, there is no better window to glimpse, glean, or deeply appreciate the world around us than through language, which is overwhelmingly one of the most taken for granted blessings that we possess. Relatedly, the Chinese writer Gao Xingjian stated in his actual Nobel lecture, “Born at the start of human civilisation, language, like life, is full of wonders, and its expressive capacity is limitless… The human need for language is not simply a need for the transmission of meaning; language is also needed for one to listen to, and for affrming one’s own existence.” Which is the essential fipside to an effective use of language, and communication outright: the ability to listen, discern and refect. Just as important as being able to say things of genuine worth, effective communication is largely determined by our ability to listen – to take on board the thoughts and musings of others. As Roy
T. Bennett once enthused, “Listen with curiosity. Speak with honesty. Act with integrity. The greatest problem with communication is we don’t listen to understand. We listen to reply. When we listen with curiosity, we don’t listen with the intent to reply. We listen for what’s behind the words.”
In 2022 Belfrage used her time here as an immersive research period – flled with walking, writing, photographing, drawing, thinking, smelling, feeling, being.
“On each day of the residency, Clare would visit a nearby national park, observing the small details of these natural environments such as moss, lichen and bark,” said Gallery Director Susi Muddiman OAM.
“These patterns, colour and rhythms of nature became the inspiration for the creation of a
new collection of glass objects made by the artist in her Adelaide
luminosity and detail.
“This exhibition is an exciting opportunity
extraordinary detail of the natural world – our backyard. It’s an honour for the Tweed Regional Gallery to present this exhibition, especially as it has a unique and direct connection to the Northern Rivers region.”
home studio and the hot glass studio at Adelaide’s iconic JamFactory. The resulting glass works are breathtaking in their colour, striking
to experience the work of a leading Australian artist working in the very special medium of glass.
“Additionally, it is inpired by the
Clare Belfrage: In the Glow of Green will be on display in the Friends Gallery at the Tweed Regional Gallery until 26 November 2023.
For all activity and event details visit the Gallery website https:// gallery.tweed.nsw.gov. au/Home
It was two weeks of just really quiet, thoughtful research: walking in the rainforest, a lot of photography, a fair bit of writing, drawing and just absorbing the place, all on my own.
–
Clare Belfrage
• CommBank launches Next Chapter Innovation to support programs for long-term recovery for victim-survivors
• Financial Abuse Leadership Summit brings together leaders from business, government and Domestic and Family Violence sector
• New survey fnds 2 in 5 of Australia’s adult population have experienced fnancial abuse or know someone who has
CBA CEO Matt Comyn unveiled the Next Chapter Innovation program during the CommBank Financial Abuse Leadership Summit in Sydney. This initiative aims to collaborate with not-for-proft and social enterprise organizations, supporting projects that aid victim-survivors in their long-term recovery from fnancial abuse. Inspired by The National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032, Next Chapter Innovation focuses on vulnerable groups, including First Nations, culturally diverse communities, young people, people with disabilities, older individuals, and LGBTQI+ communities.
Partners in the Next Chapter Innovation program will receive grants of $50,000,
$100,000, or $200,000, executive support and mentoring, access to a think tank for leveraging corporate expertise, and participation in an inaugural conference hosted by CommBank.
During the CommBank Financial Abuse Leadership Summit, leaders from business, government, and the Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) sector came together to collaborate on preventing and responding to fnancial abuse.
Matt Comyn highlighted the efforts of the CommBank Next Chapter program since 2020, supporting victimsurvivors in reclaiming fnancial independence and accessing necessary support. Next Chapter Innovation aims to elevate existing efforts by partnering with various DFV sector
organizations committed to eliminating fnancial abuse.
The National Plan identifes economic abuse, including fnancial abuse, as a critical aspect of addressing gender-based violence in Australia. Financial abuse is a form of domestic and family violence where perpetrators exert control by manipulating fnances and assets.
Various speakers, including Commissioner Micaela Cronin, Domestic, Family, and Sexual Violence Commissioner, and Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Justine Elliot, commended CommBank’s support for the National Plan and the Summit’s collaborative approach to ending fnancial abuse.
Lula Dembele, Director
of Lived Expertise and Advocacy, Women’s Trauma Recovery Centre, and Co-founder of Independent Collective of Survivors, emphasized the importance of involving lived experiences in addressing fnancial abuse and praised CommBank’s Next Chapter Innovation program as a signifcant step towards meaningful impact and change.
The announcement coincides with the release of the latest CommBank Community Awareness Survey, revealing a worsening prevalence of fnancial abuse across Australia, despite increased awareness of the issue. The survey highlights its higher incidence among younger generations, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,
and individuals with disabilities.
Organizations eligible for Next Chapter Innovation must be Australian-based, offering direct funding to local programs.
Applications are open until August 25, 2023. Those affected by domestic or family violence can seek support from the Next Chapter Team at 1800 222 387, regardless of their banking institution. In emergencies or unsafe situations, call 000 or
contact 1800RESPECT at 1800 737 732 or www.1800RESPECT. org.au.
Note: 1The research was conducted by YouGov in accordance with the Australian Polling Council standard. The survey is a nationally representative sample comprised of 10,008 Australians aged 18 years and older.
This study was conducted online in May 2023. Following the completion of interviewing, the data was weighted by age, gender, region, household income and highest level of education to refect the latest ABS population estimates.
Ballina Shire Council and the Northern Rivers Community Gallery want to hear from artists who would like to participate in a public street art project.
Expressions of Interest (EOI) are being sought for painted murals and paste ups focused on sites within the Tamar Street/ Winton Lane carpark precinct and the Northern Rivers Community Gallery/ Holden Lane precinct in the Ballina CBD.
“Many of the walls adjoining the carpark areas and laneways
attract tagging and graffti. This is a one-off trial that aims to demonstrate the value of quality street art in increasing vibrancy and preventing unwanted graffti,” said Council’s Sustainability Planner, Skye McNamara.
EOI’s are sought from artists to provide either:
• A site-specifc painted mural (artist to design and install); and/or
• Existing artwork that is suitable for reproducing as paste ups (artist to provide copies of their existing
artwork and option for NRCG to print and install).
Several artists will be shortlisted and invited to submit artwork and all projects are expected to be completed by 14 October 2023.
For artist guidelines and to apply visit www. nrcgballina.com.au/ v1/public-programs/ public-art
Applications close Monday 14 August.
For enquiries please contact Skye McNamara, Sustainability Planner on 1300 864 444.
The Australian Government has funded the installation of digital advance warning food signs at three sites in our Local Government Area to improve safety for motorists during future weather events.
The signs have been installed at the three sites below and will be commissioned and tested over the next few weeks.
• Wyrallah Road (Monaltrie Road & Skyline Road)
• Boatharbour Road (Richmond Hill Road & Cameron Road)
• Nimbin Road (Bishops Creek)
The installations include automatic
electric warning signs, as well as a separate camera mounted on a high pole at each site where the stream gauge/sensor is located.
The signs require minimal maintenance and operate with a sensor, meaning that when water levels reach a specifc depth over the road, the signs are automatically activated to close the road.
The solar powered signs and cameras also automatically connect to Council’s Disaster Dashboard and Live Traffc.
The cameras are activated once the creek/ stream reaches a pre-
determined level and/or the signs are activated.
These automatic advance warning signs don’t require Council staff to manually travel out and place “Road Closed” signs. This in turn frees up our staff to focus on other important tasks during the times where roads are fooded, such as closing food gates, removing fallen trees, moving Council assets to higher ground and generally assisting our community.
Council will be looking for opportunities to provide more of these signs into the future
JANELLE SAFFIN, State Member for the Lismore electorate, is calling on Northern Rivers residents to put forward nominations for the 2024 Premier’s Multicultural Community Medals, which open today.
The medals honour the unsung community heroes who work in the feld of multiculturalism in NSW. Submissions have also opened for
the 2024 Multicultural Honour Roll, which give posthumous recognition for signifcant achievements by members of NSW’s vast and diverse society.
“Our communities are diverse and this diversity both strengthens and enriches our society,” Ms Saffn said.
“For instance, during and after the 2022 Northern Rivers food events we saw enormous
contributions made to the rescue and recovery effort by local Aboriginal organisations, migrant workers from the Pacifc and faith-based communities.
“It is great that we can acknowledge contributions such as these through these awards.”
There are 12 categories for the awards, including business, local government, not-for-
proft and a special category to recognise the achievements of an outstanding and innovative language teacher who instils knowledge and a lifelong love of language and culture in students.
The awards program is one of the most prestigious in the State. Medal recipients and Honour Roll inductees are celebrated at a gala awards ceremony
attended by hundreds of community members and cultural, faith and political leaders.
Premier Chris Minns said he was proud to endorse this year’s awards.
“These awards recognise not only the incredible leaders in New South Wales right now, but also those who have come before us, whose impact is still being felt decades later,”
he said.
Nominations close on Thursday 7 September.
For further information on how to apply, please visit: The Premier’s Multicultural Community MedalsMulticultural NSW.
Contented purrsies from ‘Leemo Cat’. ‘Mum Jane’ is much better after her bout of RSV Virus. I am exceedingly relieved, as this restores life in our house to mellowness and harmony once more. Goodie! Now, whilst she was unwell, moping around & grumbling, I snuk off and took the time to go through some of her old photos. Ooooh, the shock of seeing some of them was harrowing. I concluded that ‘once upon a time’ Mum was a quite ‘pleasant’ looking female. She certainly would not have been considered a ‘looker’ and did not get wolf whistles from building sites. She did however, have a simple but pleasing, homey look, rather like a freshly home baked pumpkin & ‘raisin’ scone. (e.g., her freckles.) Think of Charlotte Lucas in ‘Pride & Prejudice’ who married the Clergyman Mr William Collins. (I didn’t like HIM one little bit when I watched the movie with Mum!) Hmmm. A dilemma has presented itself to my astute yet sensitive mind. Should I just come out and ask her ‘what has transpired’ over the years to change how she looked THEN, to how she looks NOW; my concern being she now looks like an overcooked fruitcake with cracks in it. Eeek! I shall have a small rest and think about how to approach this rather delicate state of affairs to ensure our harmonious relationship is not
jeopardised. This could be a challenge! OK, I’m up for it. ‘Mum, what happened to how you look compared to many years ago? Could you explain?’ Crikey, (much to my confusion) she smiled lovingly at me and even gave me a pat. ‘Leems my darling boy, it’s called getting old..pretty simple really. Let me explain more. Appearances may seem important to you ‘cos you associate positive qualities to people who are attractive in appearance. For instance Leems, I reckon you appear to think that good looks in someone means they are happier and have a more rewarding life than others. I believe YOU think plain looking people may be unhappy ‘cos they don’t fall into the ‘good looks’ genre. Well, Leems, it’s an interesting way to perceive things but I disagree. It’s not how people LOOK, it is the type of person they ARE. Gottit? If you had read ‘Pride & Prejudice’ properly, like I told you to, you would come to understand that is about people who had to learn to overcome biases about looks, status, money & all that stuff, and simply look for and love the nifty side of a person’s character, free of preconceived prejudices. Gottit?
So, Leems, yep, I am getting older..and so are YOU, but you hide all your wrinkles with fur. Imagine if I shaved it all off your body? YOU would freeze and look like a truly bad version of a Sphynx cat! I USED to worry about ageing Leems; now I look in a mirror and think, crikey Jane, you’re old but realise it doesn’t matter in the scheme of things and actually makes me smile. Every wrinkle is a refection of my life, both the positive and the negative.’ Crikey, Mum has really had far too much to say. I shall go and refect on all of this. Nitey with bored purrsies. Leemo.
This year’s bushfre season has the potential to be especially dangerous according to a UNSW fre expert, who is urging people to get prepared and mitigate the risks.
Professor Guan Yeoh, director of the ARC Training Centre in Fire Retardant Materials and Safety Technologies, says recent weather patterns have created conditions that increase the chance of major bushfres.
Those include three years of increased rain which have promoted rapid vegetation growth, followed by a more recent very dry winter creating a tinderbox scenario. That means any incident of lightning, which is the cause of around 50 per cent of bushfres in Australia, could easily spark rapidly spreading fres over wide areas.
In addition, the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has recently forecast that the southern hemisphere is entering into an El Niño climate cycle and has warned of a “surge in global temperatures”.
“In the last few years, we have had a lot of rain and foods and because of that there has been a lot of growth of grass, trees and bushland,” says Prof. Yeoh, from UNSW’s School of Mechanical
and Manufacturing Engineering.
“I was recently in the Blue Mountains just outside Sydney and I could see that everything was totally green and fourishing.
“This winter has been very dry and now we must be ready for a scenario where we will have high summer temperatures, the same as they are currently experiencing in the northern hemisphere.
“Given all that I think it is important for people to be really prepared for bushfre season and think about what might be coming.”
Prof. Yeoh says people can help protect themselves and their property from the dangers of bushfres with a few simple tasks and is encouraging them to be done as soon as possible.
“Prevention is always the best thing if possible, so I think everyone should get prepared now. If you leave it too late, you tend to forget or you run out of time,” he says.
“I think if you can prepare yourself now then you’ll be ready for when bushfre season starts, which may be as early as September this year given the conditions.”
Here are Prof. Yeoh’s fve tips for getting ready for bushfre season:
1. Clean out gutters
Throughout the
year leaves and other vegetation can easily accumulate in gutters around your house.
This is all fuel for a potential fre and can easily be sparked by extremely hot embers that often carry many kilometres on the wind from the main location of a raging bushfre.
Cleaning gutters is one of the main ways to ensure that your house does not catch fre in a bushfre situation.
2. Get your water tank ready
After clearing the gutters, it would be a good idea to hose them with water, which reduces the chances of hot embers sparking a fre.
This should also prompt you to ensure you have a reliable supply of water should it be needed to dampen down approaching fames.
It is also important to have sturdy hoses easily available which can reach all around your property for the same reason.
3. Clear bushland around your home
As much as possible, try to create a ‘buffer zone’ between local bushland and your property.
This means trimming overhanging trees and shrubs, mowing long grass and removing the cuttings.
It’s also important to remove any fammable materials around your house such as outdoor furniture, paint cans, and even door mats.
4. Be evacuationready
Make sure you and your family have a clear and concise plan to evacuate if conditions become too dangerous.
Think carefully about when you would decide to escape, which route you would take and what the back-up option would be should a bushfre block your way.
Prepare fully by keeping up to date with local bushfre information via TV, radio, websites, social media, and special apps such as ‘Fires Near Me’.
5. Fireproof your property
If you have the time, fre retardant paints are available which could prevent your house from being badly damaged or even destroyed in a bushfre.
Prof. Yeoh and his team at UNSW have helped develop a fre-coat paint - the frst to meet the Bushfre Attack Level 40 standard indicating a high bushfre riskwhich will shortly be on sale in Bunnings. Such paint could help protect you and your family in the house if evacuation from a bushfre proved impossible.
“Leemo has views on just about anything” ‘AGEING’ is simply a word for ‘LIVING’
Tweed residents are being asked for their feedback on what they would like to see for the future of the Banora Point Community Centre.
Located on the corner of Leisure Drive and Woodland Drive at Banora Point, the facility is currently used by Council to host the Fun Activities for Banora Seniors program (FABS) – a twice-weekly community program offering a range of group and social-based activities for seniors.
The centre is also available for hire for private events, with other regular activities including a Church group, martial arts and group ftness for seniors.
Supported by a Project Support Offcer funded by the Commonwealth Home Support Program,
activities undertaken by the FABS program include card games, mah-jong, scrapbooking, mosaics, jewellery-
decided at its meeting in March to exit out of aged care services and programs.
Council’s Director
funding ends, she was keen to see the popular program continue.
“Council’s decision is not about shutting
said.
“Banora Point is the only community centre in the Tweed where programs are facilitated
could be operated.
“We want a proactive plan for both the Banora Point Community Centre and FABS program that sees it thrive and we are looking for alternative measures to manage this fantastic community asset and the FABS program.”
Council has engaged consultants Better Cities Group to research ways in which the centre and the FABS program could sustainably operate in the future.
making, crochet, knitting and needle work, to name a few.
However, amid major Federal Government funding reforms in the aged care sector, Council
Sustainable Communities and Environment
Naomi Searle said while Council would no longer be able to facilitate the FABS program after December 2023 when its
the community centre or stopping its services but about looking for ways in which the centre can operate outside of Council in its day-to-day operations,” Ms Searle
by Council staff. We want to open it up to the whole community to see what types of services and programs they might like to use at the space and how they think it
Part of this research includes a survey for residents to give feedback on what they think that future may look like. To have your say on the future of the Banora Point Community Centre, visit Your Say Tweed and complete the short survey before 5 pm on Monday 14 August.
ACROSS
1 Withdraws (7)
5 Questions (7)
9 Exaggerated statements (9)
10 Cold meat dish served in a jellied mould (5)
11 Sudden gust of wind (6)
12 Actress, – Jolie (8)
14 College (6)
15 Yield (4)
19 Biblical garden (4)
20 Art of dwar ng shrubs or trees (6)
24 Used to hold a letter (8)
25 Part of former Yugoslavia; capital Sarajevo (6)
27 Basic food made with water, our and yeast (5)
28 Belonging to a thing by its very nature (9)
29 Someone who has stopped working for a living (7)
30 Coach (7)
DOWN
1 Division (6)
2 Mediterranean Island nation (6)
3 Neglected (8)
4 Frozen akes (4)
5 Australian state (10)
6 Rubber (6)
7 Broken (8)
8 Athenian philosopher (8)
13 Wooden spoon, proverbially (5,5)
16 Recall (8)
17 With the most mass (8)
18 Camellia (8)
No. 158
8 words: Good
words:
21 Engineless aircraft (6)
22 Simultaneous performance of action, speech or song (6)
23 Shallow dish to hold a cup (6)
26 Sport tidbit (abbr) (4)
No. 158
1 What term is also commonly used to refer to a socket wrench?
2 Sophie Okonedo (pictured) starred in which TV series based on a novel by Christos Tsiolkas?
3 Is Lake Argyle a natural or arti cial lake?
4 Yerevan is the capital of
which country?
5 Who wrote the 1971 novel The Day of the Jackal?
6 Which is the richer source of vitamin A: a) egg, b) mango or c) broccoli leaf?
7 In which South American country would you nd the Araraquara ‘Coca-Cola’ Lake?
8 What are the four stages of a butter y’s life cycle?
9 Which woman has appeared most often in Time magazine’s annual list of most in uential people in the world?
10 What derogatory term is used to refer to the alien population in the lm District 9?
ACROSS
1 Co ee focused restaurant (4)
5 Cylinder on which to wind (4)
6 Long periods of time (4)
7 Had on one’s body (4)
DOWN
1 Team of workers (4)
2 Related to aircraft (4)
3 Fright or alarm (4)
4 Other than or in addition to (4)
The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included, and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.
Secret message:
6 LETTERS CASINO ERECTS IRONIC STRINE
7 LETTERS COASTER ENIGMAS FOCUSED POSTAGE ROOSTER ROWBOAT
Insert each number from 1 to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations.
C A
S
A I
A O E
I G
S E R
Insert the missing letters to make 10 words –ve reading across the grid and ve reading down.
NOTE: more than one solution may be possible
8 LETTERS
Each number corresponds to a letter. Can you crack the code?
Solve all the clues and an eight-letter word will be spelled out.
1 When you go back around in a car
2 Heroes: Wonder and Cat –
3 A song on How to Train Your Dragon 2:
– – Fantasy
4 A lm and a musical, The Sound of –
5 Where Ariel, Ponyo and Nemo live
6 Someone whose job is to pretend to be someone else
7 A green Mr Man from Tiddletown
8 Small made-up, human-like creatures
1. On which ’90s sketch show did Flanagan make her television debut?
A. Big Girl’s Blouse
B. Full Frontal
C. Fast Forward
D. The Micallef P(r)ogram(me)
2. What is the focus of The Junkees with Dave and Kitty, the podcast she records with Dave O’Neil?
A. Antiquing
B. Junk mail
C. Trashy reality TV
D. Snack foods
3. Which television network is home to her new law firm comedy Fisk?
A. ABC
B. SBS
C. Network 10
D. Seven Network
4. Who replaced Flanagan on the cast of The Weekly with Charlie Pickering in 2019?
A. Judith Lucy
B. Luke McGregor
C. Peter Helliar
D. Fiona O’Loughlin
ANSWERS: 1B, 2D, 3A, 4A PUZZLES
Plunging steel prices have helped bring building product price infation to its lowest in almost three years but a bumpy road remains with accelerating infation of other materials and labour shortages continuing to drive up the cost of building says Master Builders Australia chief economist Shane Garrett.
“During the June 2023 quarter, the cost of building materials increased by another 0.6 per cent, the smallest quarterly increase since the end of 2020.”
“While the slowdown in the overall cost of home building materials is welcome, there has still been a sizeable increase of 7.4 per cent over the past 12 months.
“The past year has seen sizeable drops in the cost of several crucial building materials. The 10.0 per cent drop in steel product prices over the past year was the most signifcant
change, with a welcome reduction of 4.4 per cent in the cost of structural timber also occurring.
“Steel and timber were the source of the biggest cost headaches over recent years - the fact that prices here are now in reverse is something of a relief.
“However, the outlook is bumpy as even though the general trend in building materials prices is a favourable one, there has been a worrying acceleration in the cost of concrete, cement and sand products, a category where prices are now 16.2 per cent higher than a year ago.
“Total building construction prices rose 1.0 per cent in the June quarter and 6.5 per cent over the past twelve months predominately driven by labour shortages,” Mr Garrett said.
Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn said the surge in building costs over
recent years has taken a heavy toll on the cost of newly built homes and infrastructure across Australia.
“Latest infation fgures show that new dwelling costs rose by 7.8 per cent over the past year, exacerbating the housing affordability crisis.”
“The rental market has also been hit hard by the surge in new home building costs. During the June 2023 quarter, rental infation hit its fastest pace since 1988.
“With building and
construction costs skyrocketing since the pandemic, it is important that government policies prioritise productivity improvements, reduce supply constraints and maintain fexibility.
“The Federal Government’s proposed industrial relations reforms will have damaging consequences for the industry and further impact the increasing costs of construction,” Ms Wawn said.
The Reserve Bank of Australia’s decision to hold interest rates is a welcome reprieve to households as ABS data released today shows more bad news for Australia’s housing crisis with new home building approvals falling by 7.7 per cent in June said Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn.
“We can already see the impact of interest rate rises exacerbating the housing crisis.”
“Attention needs to be turned to addressing the structural undersupply challenges of the housing market.
“The rental market is feeling the brunt of this pressure with higherdensity home building approvals sinking by 21.0 per cent in June.
“New apartment and unit building is a key source of new supply for Australia’s rental market. These results come on top of last week’s fgures showing that rental infation has shot to its highest rate in
14 years.
“Sadly, the uptick in higher density approvals in May was short-lived with approvals returning to low levels since before the pandemic.
“Right now, many new home building projects are failing to get off the ground due to the combination of high costs and a declining investment appetite, infamed by rising interest rates.
“We need to see governments working to make it easier for new projects to get the green light by kickstarting private investment and reducing development costs and delays.
“Taxes, regulations and the industrial relations environment all have an impact on the cost of construction.
“The building and construction industry continues to implore the Opposition and crossbench to pass the Housing Australia Future Fund legislation,” said Ms Wawn.
Cattle numbers were consistent with 932 head yarded with the market frm to a shade dearer for some descriptions. The market for the lighter trade and the cows showing the most improvement, whilst the other categories were frmly supported by the restockers and feed on buyers. Processors are still flling their orders as long as the stock suits their demands.
Vealer steers av 311.6c/kg topping at 356.2c/kg or $720.29 to $946.90
Vealer heifers av 225.6c/kg topping at 322.2c/kg or $505.14 to $998.82
Feeder steers av 326c/kg topping at 365.2c/kg or $1174.53 to $1527.36
Feeder heifers av 250.4c/kg topping at 290.2c/kg or $840.94 to $1499.61
Yearling steers av 326.3c/kg topping at 370.2c/kg or $1065.63 to $1429.17
Yearling heifers av 247c/kg topping at 310c/kg or $790.40 to $1613.92
Steers av 279.7c/kg topping at 323.2c/kg or $1622.83 to $2349.34
Heifers av 258.7c/kg topping at 270c/kg or $1394.25 to $1908.20
Manufacturing steers av 223.2c/kg to return $870.48.
Cows av 216.8c/kg topping at 245.2c/kg or $1255.59 to $1910.66
Bulls av 261.6c/kg topping at 300c/kg or $1534.67 to
$2875.21
Sheep and Lamb numbers were back with 1379 head meeting the market, with the prices stable for most descriptions. The bulk of the stock yarded was in the lamb categories with some good runs available. Mutton saw a few better types
Lambs topped at $122 to av $78.61 ($2up)
Hoggets topped at $100 to av $47.81($19 down)
Ewes topped at $100 to av $38.14($12 down)
Wethers topped at $100 to av $51.57($11up)
Rams topped at $100 to av $76($14up)
Lamb Rams topped at $75 to av $48.92($5down)
Ewe lambs topped at $0 to av $0 ($0)
Sale total averaged $67.28 a fall of $3/head week on week.
Sows sold from $80 to$110, Boars from $80 to $110, stores from $40 to $170
Ducks sold to $32.50, Ducks trio to $17.50, trio to $35, Turkey stags to $17.50, Turkey hens to $30, Hens to $17.50, Roosters to $15
Written By: Ross EllisMC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT
Agents today yarded 1379 head for the weekly sale 75% being lambs/hoggets with the remainder mutton, with some good lines of ewes and a run of fne wool wethers. The market remained frm for the lambs, cheaper for hoggets and ewes , stronger for wethers and rams , slightly down on a limited number of lamb rams. Lambs topped at $122 to average $78.61($2 up), hoggets topped at $100 to average $47.81($19 down), Ewes topped at $100 to average $38.14($12 down), Wethers topped at $100 to average $51.57($11 up), Rams topped at $100
to average $76($14 up), Lamb rams topped at $75 to average $48.92 ($5 down). The total yarding of 1379 head averaged $67.28 a drop of $3/head week on week.
Warwick State High School sold Texel lambs 54kg to restockers for $118
Gradenfoe Past Co sold Dorset x lambs 45.6kg to GR Prime for $103
Bazley Family sold Suffolk x lambs 56kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $105, Ewes to Take IT Easy Meats for $100, rams to restockers for $100
Nioa Past Co sold Dorper lambs 57.8kg to Thomas Foods for $108
Arolla Past Co sold Australian White lambs 54.2kg to Thomas Foods for $104, 53kg to Eversons for $100, 52.8kg to GR Prime for $109, 46.2kg to Leslie Lamb for $95, Ram lambs 54kg to Self Meats for $75
Alaringa Rural Enterprises sold Dorper lambs 56kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $108, 40kg to Highchester Meats for $66, ewe hoggets 65.6kg and 57kg to Eversons for $60.50, 4th ewes to restockers for $60, ewes to Thomas Foods for $55 and Eversons for $41.50
Kim Nielsen sold 1stx ewes shorn to Thomas Foods for $60
Martin Roberts sold Dorper x lambs 53kg to restockers for $100, 51kg to Warwick Meats for $92, 43.3kg to Warwick Meats for $65
Robert Deans sold Dorper lambs 42kg to Grants Quality Meats for $90
Mick & Katrina Gibbs sold Dorper lambs 44.7kg to Leslie Lamb for $99, 40kg to Luck Meats for $110, ram lambs and hoggets 51.5kg to Self Meats for $66, Rams to Self Meats for $68
Hitchhiker pests are not native to Australia and have a specifc biology or behaviour that allows them to ‘hitch a ride’ to Australia via sea containers, imported goods and other forms of transportation.
As concerns surrounding the international movement of hitchhiker pests via sea containers rise, Australia is spearheading international efforts to manage biosecurity risks associated with the sea container pathway.
First Assistant Secretary of Biosecurity
Plant and Science Services, Monica Collins said that the department, in close collaboration with industry stakeholders and governments worldwide, is actively addressing this issue in its work under the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC).
Recently, the department co-hosted
the IPPC’s International workshop on ‘Pest risk mitigation of sea containers and their cargoes and the facilitation of international trade
representatives, international organisations and international peak industry bodies, fostering valuable discussions on managing biosecurity
said.
“The department is committed to preventing the entry and establishment of exotic pests that could pose signifcant threats to the
the global fght against hitchhiker pests.
“We recognise the importance of collaboration and we are actively working with international partners to
pests.
Given the substantial volume of global trade transported in sea containers, the risk posed by this pathway demands a collective and coordinated response on a global scale.
In collaboration with Australian universities, research organisations, industry and international counterparts, the department is taking signifcant steps to address the hitchhiker pest risk associated with the sea container pathway.
- defning the way forward’ in Brisbane from 17 to 19 July 2023.
This workshop brought together global stakeholders, including government
risks associated with the sea container pathway.
“The IPPC workshop was a signifcant milestone in our efforts to fnd effective global solutions,” Ms Collins
country’s agriculture and supply chain industries, economy, environment and way of life.
“As a world-leader in biosecurity, Australia is at the forefront of
fnd effective solutions to this complex issue.”
In recent years, Australia and other countries have witnessed a surge in the global movement of hitchhiker
The department is exploring innovative technologies to enhance automatic detection capabilities, researching modifcations to sea container design and leading global discussions on comprehensive solutions to mitigate this risk.
ABC, 8pm
SBS, 9.40pm
ABC, 7.30pm
Could man of god and beguiling star of the show reverend Will (Tom Brittney, pictured) be sent to jail? Stranger things have happened in the world of TV but sometimes it’s more about the stirring journey rather than the destination. At least, that’s what Grantchester fans will be hoping. Emotions are at full speed in tonight’s poignant story about forgiveness. After the shocking motorcycle accident in last week’s episode, Will is shell-shocked by the thought he has killed someone. Geordie (Robson Green) is not convinced of his friend’s guilt and sets out to clear him, while unsurprisingly, Elliot (Michael D. Xavier, Outlander) is raring to lock up the pretty priest.
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 First Weapons: Wartilykirri. (Final, PG) Hosted by Phil Breslin.
8.00 Death In Paradise. (Madv, R)
DI Neville Parker investigates the death of a survival expert on a remote island near Saint Marie.
9.00 Midsomer Murders. (PG, R)
The authorities are called in to investigate a series of murders inspired by images from a medieval fresco.
10.30 Gold Diggers. (Mls, R) Gert and Marigold’s mother rolls into town.
11.00 ABC Late News.
11.15 Miniseries: Roadkill. (Madls, R)
12.15 Harrow. (Mv, R)
1.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
With a new government and Prime Minister running the country, lovably verbose foodie, journalist and member of the Parliamentary Press Gallery Annabel Crabb (pictured) returns with the seventh season of her series. Here, she makes herself at home in politicians’ houses, with food and chat on the agenda. This fresh round of eight visits includes Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney, Western Sydney Independent MP Dai Le, Greens Senator Jordon Steele-John, Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe and Minister for Aged Care and Sport Anika Wells, along with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton. Settle in with a cup of tea for this fascinating season of diverse parliamentary gures.
One of Game of Thrones’ most memorable bad guys, Iwan Rheon – who played the
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. (PGl, R)
8.30 Legends Of The Pharaohs: Akhenaton, The Enigma. (M) Takes a look at Akhenaton.
9.30 Iceland With Alexander Armstrong. (PGa, R)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Vise Le Coeur. (Malv)
11.50 Stella Blomkvist. (MA15+v, R)
1.35 Beforeigners. (MA15+v, 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. Johanna Griggs and Adam Dovile embark on an epic road trip through Northern Ireland to Belfast. Dr Harry Cooper meets a goat. Ed Halmagyi cooks rhubarb pie. Graham Ross explores the National Arboretum.
8.30 To Be Advised.
1.30 Home Shopping.
anyone unfamiliar with the source material might be taken aback by this moody-thenunexpectedly-gory British six-part series, which doesn’t stick to the conventions of any genre. The story follows young detective ery (Ukweli Roach, pictured), who is obsessed with nding whoever killed his little brother more than two decades ago. Featuring three story threads, along with two other police o cers played by Rheon and Sacha Dhawan (Doctor Who), it’s not for the faint-hearted.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current A air.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 24. Brisbane Broncos v Parramatta Eels. From the Gabba, Brisbane.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Brisbane Broncos versus Parramatta Eels match, with NRL news and analysis.
10.40 MOVIE: A Most Violent Year. (2014, MA15+lv, R) An immigrant ghts to protect his business. Oscar Isaac, Jessica Chastain.
1.00 The Garden Gurus. (R) Neville Passmore creates a garden that rocks.
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.
7.30 Location, Location, Location Australia. Follows property experts Mitch Edwards and Mark McKie as they search for the perfect home in Adelaide.
8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) A fast-paced look at news, with Emma Holland, Guy Montgomery, Kitty Flanagan, Alan Davies and Ed Kavalee competing to see who can remember the most about the week. Hosted by Tom Gleisner.
9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Olly Murs performs.
12.00 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news and events.
1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
Emigrant Creek in northern NSW has undergone a remarkable habitat transformation with the collaborative efforts of OzFish Unlimited, local landholders, and North Coast Local Land Services. A two-year project, funded by the Australian Government’s Fisheries Habitat Restoration program, resulted in the planting of 4500 new native trees and the installation of 25 reef balls, along with the creation of a connected foodplain wetland. This restoration effort has created a thriving habitat for native fsh and other wildlife along a 2.65km stretch of the creek.
The project’s innovative aspect involved the pilot of concrete reef balls, a frst for OzFish in a freshwater environment. These reef balls were strategically placed in the creek to address the
lack of in-stream habitat complexity, especially in areas where freshwater mixes with salt. Fishers will monitor fsh use, algae growth, and other organisms on the reef balls to gauge their effectiveness.
One of the project’s signifcant achievements was the reconnection of a critical fsh habitat corridor, serving as a spawning zone for Aussie bass and linking the creek to an open freshwater wetland, which acts as a native fsh nursery during high water levels. Additionally, the restoration efforts tackled the infestation of woody weeds, particularly camphor laurel, along a 4km stretch north of Tintenbar on the western side of Emigrant Creek.
The community’s dedicated efforts over the past fve years have turned Emigrant
Creek into a haven for native fsh, platypus, and turtles. Over 7km of riparian zone has been planted and restored through various initiatives funded by Ballina Shire Council’s Healthy Waterways Program and Local Land Services, showcasing the commitment of OzFish and its partners in this transformation.
Cassie Price, OzFish’s Director of Habitat Programs, praised the collective efforts, emphasizing the positive impact on local fsh habitats. The restoration work involved reconnecting wetlands to the creek, reintroducing native plants to the riverbank, adding woody and rocky structures to the river bottom, eliminating invasive weeds, and addressing pest species to ensure the thriving populations of native fsh.
Although the return
of platypus sightings signifes the success of the restoration, there remains concern about the presence of carp. OzFish encourages the community to report carp sightings in Emigrant Creek, allowing for targeted eradication efforts and supporting the recovery of native fsh populations.
OzFish welcomes input from the Emigrant Creek community, urging residents and anglers to share their views and contribute to future actions in rebuilding Emigrant Creek as a haven for fsh habitats through their website. The collaboration and commitment shown by all parties involved have been instrumental in the impressive transformation of Emigrant Creek’s ecosystem.
The state’s peak farming body is supporting fve bright young minds from country communities to complete their studies.
The NSW Farmers 2023 Tertiary Scholarships, each worth $4000 annually, were awarded to members or their children to support their university or vocational qualifcation in an agriculturerelated feld.
This year’s recipients include Bega’s Amelia Whyman, who is studying a Bachelor of Animal Science, Megan Seis from Dunedoo, who is studying a Bachelor of Veterinary Science, aspiring Occupational Therapist Tiarna Burke from Jerilderie, Sam Johnson from Forbes, who is studying a Bachelor of Property Value, and Annabelle Shannon from Bugaldie, who is studying a Bachelor of Arts. Scholarships are based on academic performance, commitment to agriculture and rural communities, and allround ability including leadership qualities and communication skills.
NSW Farmers Rural Affairs
Committee Chair
Deb Charlton said since its inception in 1993, the scholarship program had shown the Association’s commitment to fostering the future of farming.
“There is a wealth of opportunity in agriculture, and it’s incumbent on us as an industry body to both highlight and help improve access to these opportunities,” Mrs Charlton said.
“Opportunities in agriculture will only grow more exciting as the sector enjoys a boom period and as technology and innovation drive greater variety and dynamism in agricultural careers.
“The sector has huge potential, and the future success of agriculture truly lies in the hands of the talented younger generation coming through.”
Mrs Charlton said the scholarships had a proven track record of helping the younger generation fnd their passion in agriculture, and she was confdent this year’s contingent would go on to achieve great things.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has been advised by the Indonesian Agriculture and Quarantine Agency (IAQA) that Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) has been detected in a small number of Australian cattle exported to Indonesia—after those cattle had arrived and spent some time in Indonesia.
“Australia is and remains free from lumpy skin disease, as confrmed today by Australia’s Chief Veterinary Offcer,” RMAC Chairman, Mr John McKillop, said.
“The robust systems that Australia has for the ongoing monitoring of our animal disease status supports us to trade
around the world.
“We respect the right of Indonesia’s technical
LSD.”
NFF President, Ms Fiona Simson, said
“In the meantime, Australian livestock products continue to be
the unfolding situation, and its highly technical nature, all enquiries should be directed to media@aff.gov.au at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
“The Department and the Minister have been very proactive in providing industry with information on this developing situation
and the Department continues to be the agency responsible for communicating the situation,” Ms Simson said.
regarding the live export of Australian cattle to Indonesia.
The groups met as part of a standing industry response taskforce that includes: The Red Meat Advisory Council, National Farmers’ Federation, Cattle Australia, Australian Lot Feeders’ Association, Australian Meat Industry Council, Australian Livestock Exporters Council, LiveCorp and Meat & Livestock Australia.
authorities to seek relevant assurances that live cattle exported from Australia comply with their animal health requirements. This includes being free of
the industry and the states and territories are working closely with the Australian Government to provide the assurances sought by Indonesia’s authorities.
traded, including live cattle to Indonesia where the trade remains open,” Ms Simson said.
Ms Simson said that due to the governmentto-government nature of
Red meat and livestock industry stakeholder groups met this afternoon to discuss the communication from the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
Industry and stakeholder groups will be providing the information to their members as soon as practicable, using the offcial information from DAFF.
Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Jane Weatherley as General Manager of Communications and Adoption.
Dr Weatherley comes to the role from Integrity Systems Company (ISC), a subsidiary of MLA, where she has been Chief Executive Offcer since 2016. Prior to this, she was MLA’s General Manager – Livestock Productivity, managing Meat Standards Australia (MSA), livestock genetics and sheep productivity RD&E.
In her new role, Dr Weatherley will provide strategic direction and leadership to
develop and implement stakeholder engagement and communication strategies that build awareness and adoption of MLA activities and programs. She will also spearhead the adoption of innovative agricultural practices among livestock producers by enhancing the critical linkages between adoption and communication. With a keen focus on delivering impactful messaging to stakeholders and the broader public, she will play a pivotal role in promoting the benefts of the Australian livestock industry and its commitment to sustainability and ethical
practices.
Dr Weatherley said she was excited to be taking on the role and to be strategically driving communication and adoption strategies that enhance the proftability, productivity and sustainability of the industry.
“I look forward to working with the MLA team in this role to help red meat and livestock producers build greater connections with MLA R&D and marketing activities and also to continue to build our positive communications with the broader community, telling Australian red meat’s incredible story,” Dr Weatherley said.
MLA’s Managing Director, Jason Strong, said MLA was thrilled to announced Dr Weatherley as the General Manager of Communications and Adoption.
“Jane has extensive experience in communications, adoption and extension backed by a deep knowledge of and passion for the industry,” Mr Strong said.
“She has an incredible track record of
delivering high value and impactful initiatives for the industry.”
Dr Weatherley commences her new role on 21 August
2023. MLA has also commenced recruitment for a new Chief Executive Offcer for ISC with an internal and external search.
For the week ending 2 August 2023, a series of cold fronts brought isolated falls to parts of western, southern and south-eastern Australia. Scattered falls were also recorded across parts of northern Queensland, and the interior of Northern Territory. Across cropping regions, rainfall totals of up to 10 millimetres were recorded in central and southern New South Wales and across Victoria, parts of South Australia and Western Australia. This has likely only been enough to sustain crop and pasture growth but insuffcient to build up soil moisture reserves. Little to no rainfall was recorded in Queensland and northern New South Wales.
Rainfall during July 2023 was slightly above the long-term average at a national level. An unseasonal rainfall event brought above average to extremely high rainfall to northern Australia. In cropping regions, July rainfall was extremely low in Western Australia and large areas of South Australia. Rainfall was below average across much of Victoria and large areas of New South Wales. Below average rainfall has seen little improvement in soil moisture levels in northern New South Wales, and central and northern Western Australia. These areas will require timely rainfall in the coming weeks to sustain crop growth at current levels.
For the 3 months to July 2023, above average rainfall totals resulted in above average to extremely high pasture production for this time of year across much of central Western Australia, and parts of southern Northern Territory, South Australia, western and southern New South Wales, parts of western and southeastern Queensland, and central Victoria. Average to extremely high pasture production across grazing regions will likely enable farmers to continue to maintain current stock numbers and provide opportunities to build standing dry matter availability. Below average pasture growth
over the past 3 months will likely result in graziers not being able to maintain current stocking rates leading to increased turnoff across parts of tropical northern Australia. Across southern Australia, graziers will be more reliant on supplementary feed to maintain stocking rates and production. Over the 8 days to 10 August 2023, a low-pressure system is expected to bring showers to southern parts of the country early in the week. Onshore winds are expected to bring showers to coastal Queensland. A high-pressure system is expected to bring mainly dry conditions to the remainder of the country. Across cropping
regions, rainfall totals of up to 50 millimetres are expected across southern Western Australia, while falls of between 5 and 25 millimetres are expected in Victoria and up to 15 millimetres in southern parts of New South Wales. South Australia is expected to receive lighter falls of up to 10 millimetres. If these falls eventuate as forecast, they are likely to be suffcient to support ongoing crop and pasture growth and development. Little to no rainfall is forecast for cropping regions in central and southern Queensland, northern New South Wales and northern Western Australia. Crops is these areas will be particularly prone to heat and moisture stress over
spring.
Water storage levels in the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB) increased between 27 July 2023 and 3 August 2023 by 3672 gigalitres (GL). Current volume of water held in storage is 20 704 GL. This is 1 percent or 139 GL less than at the same time last year.
Allocation prices in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke increased from $118 on 27 July 2023 to $126 on 3 August 2023. Prices are lower in the Goulburn-Broken and regions above the Barmah choke due to the binding of the Goulburn intervalley trade limit and Barmah choke trade constraint.
Tullamore animal genetics practitioner
Mark Mortimer has been awarded the prestigious Helen Newton Turner Medal for his major contributions to Australia’s livestock genetics research and development.
Named after Dr. Helen Newton Turner, a distinguished researcher renowned for her dedication to enhancing sheep genetics for superior wool production, this award celebrates exceptional accomplishments and remarkable contributions to the feld of animal genetics in Australia.
Kate Lorimer Ward, Chair of the Helen Newton Turner Trust and Deputy Director General of Agriculture for NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) said Mr Mortimer was a welldeserved recipient of this medal.
“Mr Mortimer has played a pivotal role in enhancing the genetic quality of livestock in Australia through his remarkable achievements
in implementation, innovation, and research,” she said.
“For example, in 2003 Mark worked closely with the Sheep CRC to develop the use of RFID tags in the stud, successfully developing software linking the systems for data collection and decision implementation.”
Mr Mortimer is currently the Technology and Data Analysis Manager for the Nucleus Stud and Centre Plus Merino Group, a family partnership with his father Robert and brother Doug. His skill in data management and attention to detail is demonstrated by the Centre Plus Merino group’s rating of 98.6%
for the accuracy of data entered into the Sheep Genetics database.
“It’s amazing to learn that his journey into this feld began at just 16 when he took on a data entry position with his parents’ sheep breeding operation,” Ms LorimerWard said.
“Today, his status as one of Australia’s leading genetic practitioners is demonstrated by his inclusion on many industry advisory groups, including the Sheep Genetics Advisory committee, and Meat & Livestock Australia’s National Livestock Genetics Consortium.”
Adding to the 2023 honours list, beef genetics research
scientist Dr Brad Walmsley received the inaugural Helen Newton Turner Bright Futures Award, acknowledging his accomplishments as a rising talent in animal genetics.
“Dr Walmsley is a real asset to the Australian beef industry through his continued initiative in applied quantitative genetics,” Ms LorimerWard said.
Dr Walmsley is a research scientist at the Animal Genetics
and Breeding Unit (AGBU), NSW DPI’s joint venture with the University of New England. He provides leadership in the BREEDPLAN research team responsible for the technical and implementation stewardship of BREEDPLAN and BreedObject. His guidance also extends to supervising postgraduate students, post-doctoral researchers, and staff, ensuring the
continued success and implementation of BreedObject.
Among his many achievements, including 18 scientifc journal papers and 11 genetics presentations since 2014, Dr Walmsley is an active contributor to the design and ongoing conduct of the Southern Multibreed project, a major cattle genetics project involving NSW DPI, the University of New England, AGBU and Meat and Livestock Australia.
“Awards like this not only encourage and inspire those working in animal genetics, but also reinforce the pivotal role it plays in improving animal productivity, health, welfare, enhancing sustainability in agriculture, and conserving biodiversity,” Ms Lorimer-Ward said.
The offcial award ceremony was held at the Association for the Advancement of Animal Breeding and Genetics (AAAGB) Conference in Perth.
Advertising in The Northern Rivers Rural lift out offers numerous advantages for businesses seeking to reach and engage with rural communities:
1. Targeted Audience: Rural pages attract readers residing in rural areas, providing a highly targeted audience for businesses focusing on rural markets. These readers are likely to be interested in local events, businesses, and services, making the advertising message more relevant.
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Sweeping paddocks of grain crops are a familiar sight that greet people across much of regional Australia, but how many stop to think that those crops end up in their sandwich or breakfast bowl?
In fact, the average Aussie wheat farmer produces enough grain to make 3 million loaves of bread and 2 million tins of Milo.
In the fnal week of a crusade to better connect consumers with where their food comes from – and to value that food – the NFF-led campaign under the Australians Farmers platform aims to connect those dots.
Collaborating with kitchen creatives and cookbook authors Alex Elliott-Howery and Jaimee Edwards from Cornersmith, the six-week campaign has put the spotlight on six
foods and six farmers who have grown those foods.
NFF President Fiona Simson, a grain grower herself from New South Wales’ Liverpool Plains, hoped the Australian Farmers campaign had opened people’s eyes to just how much work farmers invested into growing food sustainably, even the everyday foods you wouldn’t normally think twice about.
“This week we’re putting the spotlight on a household staple – bread. It’s main ingredient, wheat, is also a staple in the farming world,” she said.
“Cereal grains comprise 21% of the agricultural production pie because they’re incredibly important to feeding Australians and people across the globe.
“You don’t have
to drive far from an Australian city or town to see a grain crop, but how many people consider those crops might just end up as the main ingredient in a bowl of cereal or pasta?”
GrainGrowers CEO Shona Gawel said the organisation had crunched the numbers and found the average Australian grain farmer grows enough wheat to produce 3 million loaves of bread and 2 million tins of Milo each year.
“Australia produces a huge 23 million tonnes of wheat each year. This is used in bread, pasta, pizza dough, cake, instant noodles, dumpling skins and even animal feed,” Ms Gawel said.
“Our farmers work hard to grow crops sustainably, producing high quality food not only for today, but for
generations to come.”
Given bread is one of the most wasted foods in Australian households, the Cornersmith duo will explain why bread is too precious to waste. They will show people how to store it properly and what to do if it goes stale (and it’s not throwing it in the bin!)
People will meet Brad Jones, a farmer from Western Australia, which is the nation’s largest wheat growing state, producing about 8.5 million tonnes each year.
From the outset Brad’s farm looks like any other cropping property but dig a little deeper and you’ll fnd they’re introducing satellite imaging, have more than 700 soil testing sites and using a robotic sprayer to reduce chemical use by 95%.
NSW Farmers Energy Transition spokesman Reg Kidd says upgrading existing powerlines would short-circuit community pain over transmission projects.
A proposal from the Victoria Energy Policy Centre to use existing powerline easements to house 80-metre-high pylons and high voltage powerlines was worth investigating for NSW as well, Mr Kidd said.
“We’ve got people being told their farms will be cut in two
by enormous towers carrying high-voltage powerlines, and it’s creating a real headache for landholders and communities,” Mr Kidd said.
“This suggestion from Victoria would basically re-purpose the existing transmission line routes, drastically reducing the pain for landholders and giving people more certainty about what will be installed and where.
“At the very least this is worth serious consideration, particularly if it will
save not only time and money but also prevent disruption to food production.”
The major investment into wind and solar installations across rural and regional communities had caused signifcant tension in recent years, with complaints of developers turning up with lines drawn on maps, Mr Kidd said.
“To date the genuine consultation has been pretty ordinary in some places, and it seems it’s the result of someone
3. Community Connection: Advertising in rural pages demonstrates a commitment to the local community and fosters a sense of connection with the readers. It helps businesses position themselves as part of the community, which can enhance brand loyalty and trust.
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6. Niche Markets: Rural pages often feature specifc
content relevant to the local audience, such as agricultural news, rural events, and local happenings. Businesses targeting niche markets, such as agricultural products or services, can fnd their ideal audience in these pages.
7. Infuence and Authority: Rural newspapers often hold signifcant infuence and authority in their communities. Being featured in such publications can lend credibility and authority to a business, helping to establish a positive reputation.
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Businesses can leverage these features to connect with readers and demonstrate their involvement in community affairs.
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Comments attributable to Fiona Simson, President, National Farmers’ Federation
The National Farmers’ Federation notes the update from the advisory panel on the phase out of live sheep exports by sea.
in an offce somewhere drawing lines on a map willy-nilly,” he said.
“We’ve already got the potential social problems of catering for an enormous, short-term workforce during construction of these projects, with shortages of doctors, nurses and other professions likely to be exacerbated.
“Why not take the opportunity to reduce the hassle – and the expense – and repurpose the existing powerline easements?”
Report acknowledges the signifcant impacts on sheep and cattle producers, the wool industry, broadacre cropping, other businesses in the supply chain, wellbeing, communities, animal welfare, trade markets and more.
The panel has found the “overwhelming majority of those people who attended our public meetings voiced their opposition to the government’s decision”.
It also found people were feeling “uneasy” and the “potential impacts on livelihoods has been unsettling”.
This sentiment was refected in three separate
analyses recently released by Rabobank, jointly by Australian Wool Innovation and Meat and Livestock Australia, and Voconiq.
The NFF stands with 24 other peak agriculture bodies and farmers across Australia to oppose the ban or any process to phase out the trade.
We knew majority of the community was behind us and this should be a reality check for the Government.
The Government now needs to make a choice, will it support Australian farmers and regional communities or radical activists pushing vexatious and misleading agendas?
We’ve said from the beginning this is a red line issue for all of Australian agriculture. Let’s now see a red line drawn through this policy so farmers can get back to what they do best – producing food and fbre for Australia and the world.
Departure Date: 31 October 2023
$6,700 per person
Single Supplement - $1,600
This 12 day Casino Travel Shoppe Escorted Garden tour on New Zealand’s South Island will have you enjoying all the best that the South Island has to offer. The must do things when visiting the South Island plus the must see gardens are all included and then some more on this fantastic tour. Sit back and travel in comfort, everything taken care of with this escorted small group.
Price Includes:
• Home pick up and drop-off from the Northern Rivers
• Return airfares from including taxes
• 11 Nights quality accommodation with breakfast daily
• 6 dinners and 2 lunches
• Visit 5 exquisite gardens including Larnach Castle & Gardens
• TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Walter Peak Evening Dining
• TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Greymouth
• Air conditioned buses throughout
• All sightseeing entry fees per itinerary
By Liam Jennings.
For many Australians, Bali has become synonymous with the perfect holiday destination. This
is its proximity. Located just a short fight away from major Australian cities, Bali offers a convenient and affordable travel option for a quick getaway.
a major draw for tourists. From lush rice terraces to pristine beaches and magnifcent volcanoes, the island boasts a diverse and captivating landscape. Australians,
often more affordable in Bali, allowing travellers to enjoy a luxurious experience without breaking the bank.
Bali’s vibrant culture is a signifcant draw
making it an ideal destination for diverse travellers. Whether one seeks a relaxing beach holiday, an adventurous escape, a spiritual retreat, or a lively nightlife,
dream come true. The island is famous for its world-class surf breaks, attracting wave riders from all over the globe. Australians, who share a
Indonesian Island, with its enchanting landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, has captured the hearts of millions of Australians who fock there for holidays. The allure of Bali can be attributed to a combination of factors, making it an irresistible choice for those seeking an idyllic escape from the daily grind.
One of the key factors driving the popularity of Bali among Australians
Considering Australia’s geographical location, getting anywhere else in the world, such as Europe or the USA can be both costly, time consuming and realistically, a nightmare for travel. With numerous airlines operating direct fights, Australians can be on the island in just a few hours, making it an attractive destination for both short breaks and longer vacations.
Bali’s natural beauty is
who are accustomed to beautiful coastal regions, are instantly captivated by Bali’s exotic charm and the chance to experience a different tropical paradise. Compared to many other international holiday destinations, Bali offers a great value for money. Australians fnd that their currency goes further in Bali, making it a cost-effective option for an overseas vacation.
Accommodations, dining, and activities are
for Australians seeking an enriching holiday experience. The island’s Hindu-infuenced traditions, colourful ceremonies, and artistic heritage create a unique and immersive cultural experience. Visitors can witness traditional dance performances, explore intricate temples, and browse through local art markets, all of which add depth and authenticity to their vacation.
Bali caters to a wide range of preferences,
Bali has it all. From the serene shores of Nusa Dua to the hip vibes of Seminyak and the lush jungles of Ubud, there’s a perfect spot for every Australian traveller.
The Balinese people are renowned for their warm hospitality and genuine smiles. Australians feel welcomed and embraced by the locals, adding a sense of comfort and familiarity to their holiday experience. This cultural exchange allows visitors to connect with the Balinese community, enriching their understanding of the local way of life.
Australians are known for their love of good food, and Bali does not disappoint in this aspect.
passion for surfng, fnd Bali’s consistent waves and warm waters an irresistible magnet for their surfng adventures.
Bali is a fantastic destination for families, offering a range of family-friendly resorts, activities, and attractions. Parents fnd comfort in the safe and welcoming environment, where children can enjoy fun-flled adventures and cultural experiences.
To
The island’s dining scene offers a tantalizing array of favours, from traditional Balinese dishes to international cuisine. Food enthusiasts can embark on a culinary adventure, trying local delicacies and exploring the numerous cafes and restaurants offering diverse menus.
For surfers, Bali is a
Bali’s allure to Australians as a holiday destination can be attributed to its close proximity, natural beauty, affordability, cultural richness, and the wide array of experiences it offers. From relaxation to adventure and everything in between, Bali has something to offer every traveller. As the love affair between Australians and Bali continues to thrive, this island paradise will undoubtedly remain a top choice for memorable holidays for many years to come.
Time is running out for Northern Rivers flm-makers to submit their work for a possible screening at the Byron Bay Film Festival in October.
Local flm creatives have until August 18 to present their work for a chance to have it seen by their community at the town’s iconic cinematic event, which attracts independent flms and their makers along with industry insiders from all over Australia and around the world.
Submissions are closed for out-of-area flms but as part of the Festival’s mission to support the region’s creatives, organisers have extended the entry date for local submissions in the category of Byron Bay Filmmaker, for Northern Rivers residents only.
The Northern Rivers is home to an abundance of inventive and talented flmmakers and this is their chance to have their work shown to a large and discriminating audience, said Festival Director J’aimee Skippon-Volke.
“The name Byron Bay has a renown far beyond its borders and for 17 years the Film Festival team has worked to create a reputation to match, pushing to stamp Byron as hub for creativity and innovation,”
J’aimee said. “I’m always delighted to discover talented flm-makers who have made Byron their home or who have grown their skills here.”
Entries are invited from emerging flmmakers and seasoned professionals alike, and across all genres. Those working in the exciting feld of extended reality (XR) are also welcome.
To have a chance at being shown at the Festival, flm-makers are invited to visit the website (QR Code bellow)
Byron Bay Film Festival runs from October 20-29 at venues from Ballina to Murwillumbah.
The state’s biggest showcase of public education’s creativity and performing arts is turning 40, and schools across the North Coast are joining the ‘Fabulous’ party.
Students from hundreds of schools across the state were chosen to perform at this year’s Schools Spectacular - the world’s largest amateur variety show and one of NSW public education’s fagship arts events.
Students from Maclean High School and The Rivers Secondary College - Kadina High Campus are among more than 150 who will perform as featured artists at this year’s Schools Spectacular.
The local schools whose students will perform at this year’s event include:
• Camden Haven High School - eight students
• Dorrigo High
School - fve students
• Forster Public School - 12 students
• Gloucester Public School - 17 students
• Grafton High School - six students
• Grafton Public School - one student
• Gulmarrad Public School - 14 students
• Harrington Public School - six students
• Kingscliff High School - 12 students
• Kingscliff Public School - 12 students
• Maclean High School - one student
• Murwillumbah Learning Community High School - 13 students
• South Grafton High School - 15 students
• The Rivers Secondary CollegeKadina High Campus - one student
• Tweed River High School - 10 students
They will join a cast of thousands of public school students from on stage at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on Friday 24 and Saturday
25 November for a ‘Fabulous’ display of youth dance and musical performances.
The theme this year is ‘Fabulous’ and celebrates a show that has wowed its audiences for 40 years since its frst performance to celebrate the opening of Darling Harbour’s Entertainment Centre in 1983.
This year’s show will feature a 2,600-person voice choir, 2,300 dancers, an 80-piece symphony orchestra, the signing choir, stage band, specialist ensembles and VET crew all under the guidance of more than 600 teachers.
Executive producer, Richard Spiewak, said the one-of-a-kind production gives thousands of publicschool students the opportunity to be challenged and engaged through the performing arts.
“The Schools Spectacular is just that – a spectacular display of the incredibly talented students and staff in
our public schools,” Mr Speak said.
“To be chosen to perform at this worldclass event is not only testament to their talent, but also an opportunity for students to nurture their love for performing while working alongside some of the fnest talents in the entertainment industry.
“Congratulations to all the students who have been selected to perform at this year’s event – it is going to be fabulous,” he said.
Tickets for the 2023 Schools Spectacular will be on sale through Ticketek from Friday, July 28.
Schools Spectacular is produced by The Arts Unit at the NSW Department of Education and proudly supported by Telstra, NSW Teachers Federation, School Bytes, RODE, Smartsalary, Teachers Health, Steinway Galleries, Event Partners: Qudos Bank Arena, Seven Network and Ticketek.
Toowoomba
Carnival of Flowers
Music the perfect pairing for the Festival of Food & Wine –September 8 to 10
With Toowoomba
Carnival of Flowers’ Festival of Food & Wine just six weeks away, here’s a deep dive on the knockout line-up of Australian music headed to Queens Park from September 8 to 10 for the celebration!
TOP TIP – book your tickets AND somewhere to stay NOW because tickets are selling fast! Tickets are ON SALE NOW.
Friday 8 September:
Steph Strings, Budjerah, Sneaky Sound System
Steph Strings | Welcome Melbourne-
based singer-songwriter Steph Strings to Toowoomba! She’s been Australian Musician’s “Musician of the Month”, had sell-out shows at Melbourne’s iconic Chapel-off-Chapel and has impressed at Ocean Sounds Festival on Phillip Island, and Winter Wine Festival in NSW. Now, Steph Strings will treat us to her acoustic folk jams with subtle hints of John Butler Trio, Tash Sultana and Ziggy Alberts. Budjerah | STAR
ALERT!! ARIA awardwinning Coodjinburra artist, Budjerah, brings an innovative blending of R&B and pop favours – he’s already had hits Ready for the Sky, Missing You and a recent collaboration with WILSN for a stirring cover of Crowded House’s Better Be Home Soon. He supported Ed Sheeran’s recent
Thurs August 10 - Wed August 16
Asteroid City (M) NFT
BARBIE (PG)
Australian tour and has just released new song Video Games – cowritten with Aussie indie icons Meg Mac and Chris Collins.
Sneaky Sound System | Famed Australian dance group, Sneaky Sound System is all about dance, with charttopping hits like UFO, Pictures and I Love It, and ARIA Awards for
Breakthrough Artist and Best Dance Release, the frst of 14 nominations to-date. Plus, they’ve lent vocals and lyrics to superstars Jay-Z, Kanye West and Snoop Dogg, and been a guest mentor on The Voice. So, get your dance pants on!
Saturday 9
September: Hamilton Band, Chocolate
Starfsh, Hoodoo Gurus
Hamilton Band | led by frontman and Fiji Idol winner, Lai Utovou, Hamilton Band knows how to step it up a notch having shared the stage with artists Brian McKnight, Jill Scott, Maxwell, D’Angelo, Common, Anthony Hamilton, Angie Stone, Leelah James, and
Paramore (to name a few!). Prepare to dance.
Chocolate Starfsh | One of Australia’s best live bands of the 90s and 25 years later, they still pack venues. Make sure you pick up your platters and wine glasses, because Chocolate Starfsh plan to leave EVERYTHING on the foor as they rock out in Toowoomba!
Barbie (PG)
• Oppenheimer (MA 15+)
• Gran Turismo (M)
• The Miracle Club (PG)
• Meg 2: The Trench (M)
GRAN TURISMO: BASED ON A TRUE STORY (M) Oppenheimer (MA15+)
THE
Meg 2: The Trench (M) NFT
THE MIRACLE CLUB (PG)
SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR: HOPE
Saturday August 12, 2023 @ 7:30pm
RHYTHMS OF IRELAND
Monday August 14, 2023 @ 6:30pm
BJORN AGAIN: THANK ABBA FOR THE MUSIC 2023
Friday August 25, 2023 @ 8:00pm
MUSIC OF THE NIGHT TRIBUTE TO ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER
Sunday August 27, 2023 @ 2:00pm
MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL
Saturday, September 2, 2023 @ 7:30pm
JON STEVENS: THE NOISEWORKS & INXS COLLECTION
Saturday September 9, 2023 @ 7.30pm
HANS: DISCO SPEKTAKULAR TOUR
Friday, September 22, 2023 @ 7:30pm
SHE WILL ROCK YOU “THE STORY OF WOMEN WHO DARED TO ROCK THE WORLD”
Friday October 6, 2023 @ 7:30pm THE AFTERNOON AT THE POPS: THE MUSICALS OF BROADWAY
Sunday October 29, 2023 @ 2.00pm
ANH DO: THE HAPPIEST REFUGEE
Thursday November 9, 2023 @ 7.30pm
MANPOWER AUSTRALIA
Wednesday February 7, 2024 @ 7.30pm
RUNNING IN THE SHADOWS OF FLEETWOOD MAC
Friday May 17, 2024 @ 8.00pm
R
Thursday, September 21, 2023 @ 7:00pm
Hoodoo Gurus
| Rockstars of the Aussie music scene
and inductees into the Australian ARIA’s Hall of Fame, the Hoodoo
Gurus are behind anthems like That’s My Scene, Bittersweet and
Like, Wow – Wipeout. Music legends right here in Toowoomba!
Sunday 10 September Dreams Show -
Fleetwood Mac & Stevie Nicks Tribute | Who doesn’t LOVE Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks? Dreams Show delivers all the loved anthems and incredible musical moments you need for a perfect Sunday afternoon. You are welcome!
Eurogliders | It’s them – live on stage! The Australian music makers who found international success through their
hit single Heaven (Must Be There). So, allow the songs of an Australian generation to wash over you and cleanse the palette in a way that only the 80s can!
Jon Stevens | THE MAN HIMSELF! Lead singer of Noiseworks, fronting rock legends INXS from 2000 – 2003, and starring as Judas in Australia’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar, Jon Steven’s is a total rockstar! Witness him singing live hits like Take Me Back, Touch and Hot Chilli Woman, or one of his collaborations with stars Kate Ceberano and
Black Sorrows. Sit back as you wine, dine, and prepare for the perfect rock ‘n’ roll dinner and a show!
Famed Masterchef
Foodie Justine Schofeld leads the Farm to Fork demonstrations over the three day Festival. Queens Park will become home to The Tasting Room and have bars serving sips from 4Brothers Brewery, Pechey Distilling Co and Burleigh Brewing, as well as the BBQ Pityard from Paddock Butchery, the sellout Botanical Society area, and more than 35 food and wine stalls. Flower crown making stations also return.
The internationally acclaimed Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers will take over September as a joyous 30 days of petals, favours, sounds and sights, headlined by 190,000 blooms.
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is supported by the Queensland Government, through Tourism and Events Queensland, and features on the It’s Live! In Queensland events calendar.
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2023
1 – 30 September 2023 tcof.com.au
Festival of Food & Wine
8- 10 September 2023 tcof.com.au
Bugger, there goes my chance for gold and a lifetime on the motivational speaking circuit.
Dictator Dan canned the Commonwealth Games right at the peak of my training for the synchronised lawn-mowing crown (under 100cc, nonride-on, kikuyu division), one of the frst events of any games so the pitch is perfect for the lawn bowls on day three.
The hopes and dreams of young (and old) Aussies bound for glory by beating the daylights
Crittenden Estate
Mornington Peninsula
‘Pinocchio’ Rosato (nero d’avola) 2022, $26 This might reveal who’s telling the truth, although the quote (and graphics) on the label, “What can I do for you my dear assassins”, may not endear, specially cat and fox lovers. Sharp and tart yet fragrant and
out of competitors from other stupidly wealthy, sports-obsessed nations like Lesotho, Maldives, St Kitts and Nevis among other countries that the Brits took under their wing - while taking their natural resources, culture, religion and system of government - dashed.
Thus it appears the Comm’ Games era is over and all we’re left with are memories.
Who can forget that exhilarating fnish in the fnal of the…what was it
fruity, you’ll need food with this, maybe some cat or fox? 9.2/10.
Crittenden Mornington Peninsula Cri De Coeur Pinot Noir 2021, $95. Delicious pinot to sway non-red drinkers to your evil ways…if you’re rich. Buying a carton will help regional Victoria and cause more than your heart to cry,
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
again, the Small-Bore Clay Target thingy or the Archery (Recurve), in 1984…or was it 1992. Hang on, was that the year they were held in Botswana? Nah, can’t be they were never held in Africa.
Actually, who can remember?
Never again will the wealth of Great Britain, Australia and New Zealand be used against third world countries for the purpose of…um…oh, who cares, it’s all Dan’s fault and now so we can just get on with
but there will be tears of joy too. 9.6/10.
Hanging Rock Bendigo Heathcote ‘The Diplomat’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, $28. How apt for a wine for the occasion, so help save Dan and a bit of Victoria while enjoying a warming cabernet and dreaming of gold 9.3/10.
our other favourite sports, blame-shifting, budgetfudging and explaining why that money can’t now be spent on public housing and hospitals.
Naturally this whole problem only arose because the Games organising Committee used PWC to do their budget ($2billion) and when Dan engaged Deloitte’s to audit those fgures, suddenly there was a blow-out to $7billion, once their fees were factored in.
Meanwhile, let’s not
Hanging Rock Macedon Ranges
Victoria Jim Jim Three Sauvignon Blanc, 2022, $35. Sauvs blancs seem so rare these days in a sea of gris so they are a real treat, in our household at least. And so we treated ourselves, several times. 9.4/10.
Provenance Geelong Shiraz 2021, $36.
mention the beautiful irony that having stated the games should cost $2bill in total, when asked how much had been spent already, now wasted, the Games organisers answer was, yep, $2billion. That’s what you get for using PWC.
Yes, fudging the fgures is the marquee event of any large sporting fxture, invariably embodying the economic phenomenon peculiar to such events, the ‘Trickle-up Effect’, where overwhelmingly the returns go to the sponsors and
How appropriate? This won Dan’s very own Premier’s Award for best wine from all of Victoria’s wine shows and would have been served at the top tables throughout the games. Should be plenty to go around now. Lovely stuff 9.5/10.
Provenance Golden Plains Rosé 2022, $28.
Max Crus
infrastructure companies.
Really, who cares if some privileged, rich, white kids from our taxpayerfunded Institute of Sport, can’t prove themselves against naturally talented Greco-Roman wrestlers from impoverished former colonial outposts?
Nevertheless, we should feel sympathy for those who will suffer mostregional Victoria’s wineries and cellar doors. Why not help support them by chipping in for a bottle or two.
Sounds like something out a of spaghetti western, which makes a lot of sense anyway. Why not a rosé after a showdown at the OK Corral or with the Comm Games committee? Or beforehand, might defuse the situation. Nice with a spaghetti western or marinara. 9.3/10.
The twelve interest rate rises by the RBA since May last year have collectively boosted the income of the banks by $88 billion according to Kevin Young, President of Property Club, Australia’s largest independent property club.
Mr Young said that Australians hold over $2.2 Trillion in home loan mortgages and each interest rate rise delivered billions in dollars in additional income to the banks.
“If the RBA increases interest rates by another 0.25 per cent today their income will automatically be boosted by over $5 billion which would be outrageous,” he said.
“This is because the big bank income bonanza has been at the expense of ordinary mum and dad Australians who had seen their personal income slashed by rising interest rates.
“This is voodoo economics! How is making the big banks richer and ordinary
people poorer going to solve our cost of living crisis and reduce inflation quickly at the same time?
Mr Young proposed a more equitable and smarter way to reduce spending in the economy by imposing a special super levy on all income earners.
“It would ensure that the money of ordinary people who put into their superannuation which they can enjoy in retirement rather than handed over to the big banks.
“This proposal would reduce spending across the board rather than only targeting home loan borrowers.
“This failed policy of increasing interest rates has already seen more than 35, 000 fewer rental properties coming onto the rental market over the past year as lending to property investors has been hit due to 12 successive rises in interest rates.
“This has resulted in few rental properties that in turn has driven up rents and fed into inflation.” he said.
Consumers in dispute with financial firms lodged a record 96,987 complaints with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) in the past 12 months, an unprecedented rise of 34 per cent on the previous financial year.
AFCA’s Chief Ombudsman and Chief Executive Officer, David Locke, said the rise reflected growing financial stress in the community, the continued scourge of scams, and issues with insurer claims handling that had continued for well over a year now.
“We are deeply concerned by the volume of complaints consumers are having to escalate to AFCA,” Mr Locke said. “It’s not fair on consumers and not good for business. We need to see a significant improvement from firms.”
Mr Locke said the impact of financial stress from rising interest rates and costs of living became increasingly evident in complaints in the final quarter of 2022-23.
Overall, banking and finance complaints rose 27 per cent to 53,638 in 2022-23. Within that, complaints involving financial difficulty rose 9 per cent over the year but were up 31
per cent when the June quarter was compared with the same period a year earlier. Home loan complaints and credit card complaints also spiked higher in the final months of the year.
“We want to see banks and other finance providers continue to take active steps to identify and support customers who are experiencing financial difficulty,” Mr Locke said.
Pleasingly, the banking and finance sector had continued to lift the proportion of complaints resolved at the earliest stage of the AFCA process.
Buy now pay later (BNPL) complaints rose 57 per cent in 2022-23. Mr Locke noted people were turning to other forms of credit to manage tight budgets.
“This underlines the importance of the federal government’s plan to regulate BNPL under the National Consumer Credit Act, and recent reforms addressing what’s known as ‘payday’ lending.”
Meanwhile, personal transaction accounts overtook credit cards as the most complained about product, with disputes up 86 per cent. It is the first time credit cards have failed to top the list since AFCA’s inception nearly five years ago.
This was partly due to scam-related complaints,
which rose 46 per cent last year to 6,048.
“We witness first-hand the human cost of this serious and sophisticated financial crime,” Mr Locke said. “It’s pleasing to see initiatives by individual banks to combat scams but we would welcome a more consistent approach across the sector.”
Mr Locke welcomed the government proposal for codes of practice addressing scams.
“AFCA believes there is a need for enforceable standards, to lift the bar on scam prevention and remediation. This will also aid the work we do as an ombudsman service.”
The top issue in complaints to AFCA in 2022-23 was delay in insurance claim handling (up 76 per cent). Overall, general insurance complaints rose 50 per cent to 27,924.
“We have been raising our concerns about claim delays with insurers for over 12 months now,” Mr Locke said.
“It is disappointing that this continues to be a concern. While we acknowledge the challenges insurers have faced, the bulk of complaints in the past year were not about natural disasters but about regular claims. We would like to see insurers take the necessary steps to ensure fewer policyholders have to take a complaint to
AFCA.”
Delay in insurance claim handling was also a significant issue in superannuation. Super complaints rose 32 per cent overall, but within this was a 136 per cent rise in complaints about claim delays, including the payment of death benefits.
“We urge fund trustees to closely track the progress of claims and to review outcomes for members,” Mr Locke said. “Access to this money is vital for people who have lost a loved one or are unable to work.
Unnecessary delays and poor communication are distressing.”
Overall, in 2022-23 consumers secured $253.8 million in compensation and refunds after coming to AFCA. In addition, AFCA’s systemic issues work – on issues with a wider impact than single complaints – resulted in firms remediating more than 368,000 people to a total of $75.5 million.
AFCA has helped secure $1.07 billion in compensation and refunds since starting operation on 1 November 2018. It has received more than 367,000 complaints in that time. Its systemic issues work has resulted in 4.8 million people receiving $340.2 million.
In the ever-evolving landscape of electric vehicles (EVs), the automotive world is set to be transformed once again with the much-anticipated arrival of the 2024 Electric MG Cyberster in Australia. MG, known for its rich heritage and modern innovations, is ready to make a bold statement with this futuristic electric roadster. As sustainability takes centre stage, the Cyberster aims to redefne the driving experience, offering an exhilarating blend of style, performance, and eco-friendliness.
The design of the 2024 Electric MG Cyberster captivates with its cutting-edge aesthetics. Embodying the essence of MG’s classic convertible sports cars, the Cyberster seamlessly blends nostalgia with a forward-looking vision. Its sleek, aerodynamic lines and a low-slung silhouette harken back to the golden age of sports cars while integrating advanced technology. One of the most striking features of the Cyberster is its LED-lit “Magic Eye” headlights, which give the vehicle a distinct, futuristic appearance, day or night. The aggressive front grille and sculpted fenders not only contribute to the car’s bold presence but also enhance its aerodynamic effciency, maximizing range and performance.
Beyond its captivating exterior, the 2024 Electric MG Cyberster boasts impressive performance capabilities. Powered by a stateof-the-art electric powertrain, this roadster can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a breathtaking time of under 4 seconds, making it a true contender among sports cars. With instant torque delivery characteristic of electric vehicles, the Cyberster promises a thrilling and responsive driving experience that enthusiasts will surely appreciate.
Range anxiety becomes a thing of the past with the Cyberster’s robust battery pack.
The vehicle’s advanced lithium-ion batteries provide an estimated range that comfortably covers long-distance trips in and around Australia. Moreover, MG is investing in expanding its fastcharging infrastructure, ensuring that Cyberster owners can conveniently recharge their vehicles across the country.
Interior and Technology
Step inside the 2024 Electric MG Cyberster, and you’ll fnd a futuristic and driver-focused cabin. The cockpit boasts a digital instrument cluster, presenting vital information at the driver’s fngertips. Meanwhile, a large infotainment touchscreen
graces the centre console, offering seamless connectivity and access to a suite of advanced features.
As a two-seater roadster, the Cyberster prioritizes the driver and passenger experience, providing comfortable and supportive seats that hold occupants securely during spirited drives. Ample legroom and headroom are thoughtfully integrated into the vehicle’s design, ensuring a pleasant journey whether it’s a short urban commute or an extended road trip.
MG understands the importance of safety in modern vehicles, and the Cyberster is no exception. Equipped with a suite of advanced
safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blindspot monitoring, the Cyberster aims to provide peace of mind to its drivers. Additionally, the vehicle’s rigid structure and reinforced safety cage enhance occupant protection during unforeseen events.
Conclusion
As we march towards a greener and more sustainable future, the 2024 Electric MG Cyberster arrives as a beacon of innovation and style in the Australian automotive market.
Combining classic MG design with modern electric performance, the Cyberster promises to
revolutionize the way we view sports cars. With its remarkable acceleration, impressive range, and advanced safety features, the Cyberster caters to both driving enthusiasts and eco-conscious consumers. As MG makes strides in expanding its electric vehicle offerings, the Cyberster is sure to leave an indelible mark in the hearts of Australian drivers, demonstrating that sustainability and performance can coexist in perfect harmony. The roadster is set to shape the future of driving, showcasing the immense potential of electric vehicles in creating a cleaner and more exciting automotive landscape for Australia and beyond.
2024 Z Nismo receives a facelift with a new front bumper featuring a prominent diffuser, a thinner-mesh grille for better airfow, canards to manage turbulent air, a larger rear spoiler, and red accents throughout. Inside the cabin, Recaro bucket seats, a leather and Alcantara steering wheel, and a red-coloured push-button starter add to the sporty atmosphere. The car is equipped with modern features, including a digital instrument cluster, touchscreen multimedia system, multi-function steering wheel, front and rear parking sensors, and more.
By Jeff GibbsNext year, Nissan’s Nismo-tuned Z, known for its hardcore performance, will make its way to Australian showrooms. This upgraded version boasts increased power, torque, handling prowess, and an aggressive design.
The 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 engine now delivers an impressive 313kW/521Nm, compared to the previous 298kW/475Nm. The power peak is reached at 6400rpm, while the torque peak is available from 2000-5200rpm, as opposed to the base
model’s range of 16005600rpm.
The enhancements responsible for these gains include improved cooling, revised electronic wastegate control for increased turbocharger boost and turbine speed, and an independent ignition spark timing strategy inspired by the GT-R Nismo. Additionally, an upgraded oil cooler allows for sustained periods of intense driving.
The major change, however, lies in the transmission, as the new Nismo will exclusively feature a
nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission has been
Nismo’s downshifting capability is nearly twice as quick as the
fnely tuned by Nismo to deliver faster and more dynamic shifting performance. In fact, the
standard Z automatic, and the Sport+ driving mode is designed to be highly responsive for
performance driving, making manual shifting unnecessary on the track. Despite the performance-oriented upgrades, Nissan has also focused on cornering grip. The suspension has been reworked, and the car now features unique stabilizer bars, extra underfoor bracing, and stiffer bushings. Uprated brakes with 15-inch rotors up front and 13.8-inch rotors in the rear, along with a performance-focused brake-pad compound, keep everything in check.
The exterior of the
Safety is not overlooked, even with the car’s track-focused nature. The Nismo comes with autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffc alert, and high-beam assist as standard.
Pricing for the Z Nismo in the Australian market will be disclosed later, but it is expected to be higher than the standard Z and possibly more than the limited-run Z Proto. Nonetheless, it might still be more affordable than its main competitor, the Toyota Supra, which has a higher starting price.
Mitsubishi Australia
has set its sights on introducing a fagship edition of the new Mitsubishi Triton ute, aimed at taking on rivals like the Toyota HiLux Rogue and Nissan Navara Warrior. The new Triton range is slated to hit Australian showrooms in February, and the company believes there is an opportunity to offer a top-of-the-line version above the current GSR model.
Mitsubishi Australia’s CEO, Shaun Westcott, revealed that they are considering two options for the development of this fagship edition. The frst option is to create it in-house, while the second
involves partnering with Walkinshaw, the former Holden Special Vehicles engineering frm. Walkinshaw has previously collaborated with Mitsubishi on the limited-run Triton Xtreme special edition for the outgoing model, which
will be available in showrooms later this year. While the decision is yet to be fnalized, Westcott emphasized that there is potential for a high-performance Triton variant in the market. Mitsubishi Japan is already considering
a factory-built Triton Ralliart to rival the Ford Ranger Raptor, but no offcial green light has been given for that project.
It is important to note that the Triton Xtreme, designed and engineered by Walkinshaw, was
proposed to Mitsubishi Australia by the Walkinshaw Automotive Group, not the other way around. The upgrades for the Xtreme were created by Walkinshaw in collaboration with companies like Supashock, a supplier of suspension systems for V8 Supercars.
While Mitsubishi Australia supports the Triton Xtreme project, they clarify that it is not a formal partnership. Westcott commended Walkinshaw’s initiative and expressed enthusiasm for the concept. However, their focus now lies in exploring the possibility of the Triton Ralliart pitched by Mitsubishi’s headquarters in Japan.
Mitsubishi Australia is keen on the Triton
Ralliart model if it brings a performance advantage rather than merely being an appearance package. The Ralliart range could comprise various models, with the high-output Ford Ranger Raptor competitor being Mitsubishi Australia’s preferred choice.
As the release of the new Triton draws near, Australian drivers eagerly await further updates on whether the fagship edition will become a reality and whether it will carry the Walkinshaw touch. The potential collaboration between Mitsubishi and Walkinshaw promises to deliver an exhilarating pickup truck designed to conquer the Australian roads and beyond.
The frst half of 2023 has seen Tesla dominate the electric vehicle (EV) market to an extent that raises doubts about its competitors catching up anytime soon. Tesla’s sales fgures are nothing short of remarkable, with the American automaker selling an impressive 25,577 EVs, representing a staggering 76.5 percent of the entire electric vehicle market. In comparison, China’s BYD, the closest challenger, managed to sell 6,196 examples of its Atto 3 during the same
One critical factor contributing to Tesla’s dominance is the brand loyalty it has garnered.
successfully employed by automakers like Toyota, Hyundai, and Kia over the past
Model Y has the potential to revolutionize the luxury market. Being the frst EV for most
offerings have managed only 1,114 total sales in Australia this year. Audi, too, fnds itself in
buyers away from Tesla with their aftersales and ownership experiences. However, this strategy is becoming increasingly risky as Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y sales continue to outperform the competition by a signifcant margin.
In conclusion, Tesla’s dominance in the EV market during the frst half of 2023 has given it a considerable advantage as the automotive industry shifts towards electrifcation. The brand’s loyal customer base and consistently
period.
Even the ‘big three’ German luxury brands – Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz –collectively offered 10 different EV models but only achieved a total of 2,030 sales in the frst six months of the year. This glaring difference in sales numbers puts Tesla in the driver’s seat as the automotive world transitions towards an electric future.
As any car manufacturer knows, it is much easier to retain existing customers than to attract new ones. Tesla’s growing customer base means that more and more buyers are likely to remain loyal to the brand, provided the company continues to deliver positive ownership experiences. This strategy of fostering customer loyalty has been
few decades. A prime example is the Hyundai Excel, which once captivated buyers with its affordability and reliability. Hyundai’s ability to provide a positive ownership experience resulted in many customers sticking with the brand, contributing to its growth and evolution into a more premium automaker.
Similarly, the Tesla
of its customers, if it proves to be troublefree, these buyers are likely to remain loyal to the brand, even when comparing it to established luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
Despite Mercedes offering a strong lineup of EVs, including the EQA, EQB, EQC, EQE, and EQS, these alternatives to Tesla’s
a challenging position with limited electric options like the high-end Q8 e-tron and e-tron GT, resulting in just 273 sales. Although Audi’s management sees the Q4 e-tron as a potential volume-selling EV, they have yet to announce a defnite timeline for its release in Australia.
Established brands remain confdent in their ability to entice
strong sales indicate that Tesla is well-positioned to sustain its success into the future. As other automakers strive to compete, they must address the challenges posed by Tesla’s brand loyalty and continually evolving electric offerings. Only time will tell if Tesla’s lead can be narrowed or if the race has indeed been decided before it has fully begun.
Monash University
A Monash University-led study has found that the risk of brain bleeding outweighs any potential beneft of reducing the risk of strokes in healthy older adults who take daily low dose aspirin.
Published in JAMA Network Open, this is the frst major investigation into the risk/beneft of aspirin as a primary prevention measure in older people, who are often exposed to head trauma through falls and other knocks to the head. Bleeding is a known side effect of aspirin.
Researchers drew on data from ASPREE (ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly), a primary prevention aspirin trial involving
more than 19,000 initially healthy older adults, mostly over the age of 70, the vast majority in Australia and the rest in the USA.
Primary prevention involves actions to preserve health and prevent adverse health events. Secondary prevention interventions are taken after a health event to avoid it happening again.
The participants, who did not have known cardiovascular disease when they entered the study, were randomly assigned 100 mg daily aspirin or placebo tablet for an average of fve years.
The secondary analysis study found no statistically signifcant difference in the incidence of ischemic stroke - the most
common type of stroke, caused by a blockage in vessels carrying blood to the brain - between the aspirin and placebo group.
Overall, strokes were
reported in 4.6 per cent of the aspirin group and 4.7 per cent in the placebo group. While the number of brain bleeds was small, bleeding events were 38 per cent higher in those who took aspirin compared to
placebo.
The researchers concluded that the risk of brain bleeding outweighed any potential beneft in reducing strokes. This included bleeds into the brain, and bleeds on the brain surface which are commonly associated with head trauma.
“These fndings suggest that low-dose aspirin may have no role for the primary
prevention of stroke and that caution should be taken with use of aspirin in older persons prone to head trauma e.g. from falls,” the researchers wrote.
Senior Author
Professor John McNeil said the study underlined possible risks for some, but older people taking aspirin should not stop doing so without consulting with their GP.
“Although the overall incidence of bleeding was not common, it highlighted another risk of low-dose aspirin, especially relevant to older people susceptible to head trauma,” Professor McNeil said.
“These fndings do not apply to older adults taking aspirin on medical advice, such as after a heart attack and ischaemic stroke. In
secondary prevention, the balance of risks and benefts generally favours aspirin. It’s important to consult with your GP before making any changes to your medicine intake.”
First author and Director of Stroke Services at Alfred Health, Professor Geoffrey Cloud, said people could reduce their risk of stroke by living a healthy lifestyle.
“Older people concerned about reducing their risk of having their frst stroke should not take daily aspirin without their doctor’s advice but instead concentrate on modifcation of lifestyle risk factors and blood pressure control,” he said.
bloodstream, as part of EIGS.
As core body temperature increased, the extent of gut damage, bacterial endotoxin, systemic infammatory responses, and gut symptoms also rose.
death if not treated appropriately.”
Australians playing sport or working in physical jobs for extended periods in hot weather or environments risk gut damage and blood poisoning that may lead to serious illness.
For the frst time, a Monash Universityled research project has identifed the point at which people face potentially serious Exercise-Induced Gastrointestinal Syndrome (EIGS), and the corresponding degree of seriousness.
EIGS can cause a range of debilitating signs and symptoms, as a result of pathogenic agents (e.g. bacteria or bacterial endotoxins) in the gut leaking into
blood circulation.
This situation may lead to more serious clinical implications such as sepsis, if the body’s immune system can’t cope with these pathogens in the blood. EIGS mimics similar health conditions such as ischaemic bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and infammatory bowel disease.
Published in Temperature, the study found that a rise in core body temperature to 39°C, and above, from two hours of exercise in hot conditions can predict the onset of gut damage and the movement of pathogens from the gut into the
Lead author Kayla Henningsen, a Dietitian and Exercise Gastroenterology PhD candidate at Monash University’s Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, said EIGS could occur during sports activities or even work.
“Physically demanding felds, such as the mining industry, military, agriculture and frefghting services, are notorious for not only the exertional activity required to fulfl the role of the occupation, but also for the potential of heat exposure,” Ms Henningsen said.
“Occupations that require high levels of physical labour while being exposed to extreme heat conditions could also experience gut symptoms from exertional-heat stress, leading to an increase in the risk of systemic shock, infections in the bloodstream, or even
EIGS can occur when prolonged exertion in the heat diverts blood fow to the body’s periphery (e.g., limbs) to help cool the body. This causes the wall of gut cells to break and open as less blood is surrounding the gut and providing the cells with the nutrients they need to stay tightly sealed.
Toxins and microbes can then move from the gut into the bloodstream, causing EIGS symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and possibly a full-body infammatory response, or even death if left untreated.
Depending on the type, duration and environmental conditions, up to 85 per cent of endurance athletes, such as marathon runners, report experiencing these gut symptoms.
The study saw endurance-trained athletes run for two hours in 21.2-30.0°C and 35.0-37.2°C heat, with blood samples and temperatures taken at various points. It found that two hours of steady running (60 per cent
of VO2max) in hot conditions could predict the magnitude of EIGS.
Ms Henningsen said while all parts of Australia were hot for part of the year, those working and playing sport in temperate climates such as Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australia could be at even greater risk. She and her team are now assessing nutrition strategies to maintain blood fow aroundthe gut during exertionalheat stress, to help prevent gut damage. While strategies have been developed, such
as carbohydrate and/or protein during exercise, consuming a high FODMAP diet and/or body cooling strategies, the new information will provide improved guidance.
“Findings from this research will not only help athletes’ performance and keep them safe, but will build upon Occupational Health, Safety and Environment practices within workplace settings to prevent adverse health outcomes to individuals who are exposed to prolonged exertional-heat stress,” Ms Henningsen said.
Renting a house in Australia doesn’t mean you have to give up on your gardening dreams. Whether you have a passion for plants or
garden without making permanent changes to the property. You can use pots, planters, and hanging baskets to grow fowers, herbs, and even small vegetables. opt for lightweight containers
maximise their green space.
simply want to create a cosy outdoor space, gardening in a rental house is both possible and rewarding. Embrace the opportunity to cultivate a beautiful garden that brings joy and tranquillity to your living space. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and ideas for gardening in a rental house in Australia.
One of the most renterfriendly ways to garden is through container gardening. Containers offer fexibility and mobility, allowing you to create a stunning
for easy moving and select a mix of colourful plants to add life and vibrancy to your outdoor area.
If you have limited space, consider vertical gardening. Vertical gardens are a spacesaving and visually appealing way to grow plants vertically on walls or fences. You can use wall-mounted planters, pallets, or even repurposed items to create your vertical garden. This is a fantastic option for renters with small courtyards or balconies who want to
When gardening in a rental house, it’s wise to choose low-maintenance plants that won’t require constant care and attention. Australian native plants are often a great choice, as they are well-suited to the local climate and require minimal water and maintenance. Droughttolerant succulents, hardy shrubs, and
perennial fowers are also excellent options for a low-maintenance garden.
Before making any signifcant changes to the outdoor space, always seek your landlord’s permission. Some landlords may be open to landscaping improvements, as it can enhance the property’s appeal. Discuss your gardening plans and propose a design that is
easily reversible when you move out. This open communication can lead to a mutually benefcial arrangement that allows you to create a beautiful garden while respecting the property.
Composting is a fantastic way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden. In a rental house, traditional compost piles may not be practical, but you can opt for a container composting system. Use a compost bin or tumbler to compost kitchen scraps, yard waste, and
Use items like garden screens, outdoor rugs, potted plants, and outdoor furniture to create a welcoming atmosphere. Temporary landscaping is easily adjustable, allowing you to adapt your garden as your needs and tastes evolve.
Maintaining your garden is essential to ensure it thrives throughout your rental period. Regularly water your plants and monitor their growth and health. Prune and deadhead fowers to encourage new growth and fertilise
shredded paper. This not only benefts your garden but also helps the environment by reducing landfll waste.
If you live in a community of rental houses, consider collaborating with your neighbours on gardening projects. Shared garden spaces can foster a sense of community and allow you to pool resources and ideas. You could create a communal vegetable patch or a collective fower garden that everyone can enjoy.
Temporary landscaping is a fantastic option for renters who want to transform their outdoor space without causing permanent changes.
as needed to keep your plants nourished.
Gardening in a rental house is a delightful and rewarding experience. By using container gardening, vertical gardens, lowmaintenance plants, and seeking your landlord’s permission, you can create a beautiful garden that enhances your living space. Collaborating with neighbours and implementing temporary landscaping are additional strategies to make the most of your gardening journey. Embrace the opportunity to nurture nature and create your green thumb oasis, even if you’re renting!
2 servings
• 1 banana, frozen, sliced
• 1 pitted fresh date, chopped
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
Step 1
• 500ml (2 cups) milk (cow’s or soy)
• 75g baby spinach leaves or trimmed kale leaves
Blend the banana, date, chia and milk in a blender until well combined. Add the spinach or kale and blend until smooth.
7
prep
• 400g penne pasta
• 250g chorizo, sliced
• 580g Jar Basil and Garlic Pasta Sauce
• 2/3 cup Grated Pizza Blend Cheese
Step 1
Cook penne in a large pot of boiling salted water according to packet directions. Drain and return to pot.
Step 2
Meanwhile, cook chorizo in a frying pan on high for 2-3 mins, until browned. Add to pasta
prep 10m prep
5m cook 25m cook
4 servings
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 100g baby rocket leaves
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
with pasta sauce. Transfer to a 10-cup capacity ovenproof dish. Combine cheese and breadcrumbs. Scatter over pasta.
Step 3
Transfer pasta bake to a preheated grill. Cook for 5 mins, until melted and golden. Toss together rocket and oil. Serve pasta bake with rocket leaves.
18 servings
• 3 x 150g packets bought mini tart shells
• 18 Allen’s Fantales, unwrapped, halved
• 250ml (1 cup) thickened cream
• 2 eggs
Step 1
Preheat oven to 180C/160C fan forced. Line a baking tray with baking paper. Place the tart shells (in foil cases) on the prepared tray. Place two Fantale halves in the base of each tart shell. Bake for 5 minutes or until softened.
Step 2
Meanwhile, whisk together the cream, egg, egg
• 2 egg yolks
• 2 tbsp caster sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste
• Icing sugar, to dust (optional)
yolks, caster sugar and vanilla in a bowl. Strain through a fne sieve into a large jug. Divide strained mixture evenly among tart shells. Bake for 17 minutes or until custard is just set. Set aside for 15-20 minutes or until cooled slightly.
Step 3
Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with icing sugar, if using.
The death of Robert Keith Shephard, 81 yrs, occurred in Sydney 27 July 2023. He was the loved son of Athol and Daphne Shephard (both dec’d), and brothers Chris and David.
A private cremation will take place in Sydney.
27.08.1941 ~ 02.08.2023
Passed away peacefully in Lismore. Dearly loved wife of Leslie (dec). Loving mother and mother-in-law of Danny & Angela, Lori & Colin, Janelle, Larry, Vicki & Barry and Julie. Cherished granny of her 14 grandchildren and adored great granny of her 17 great grandchildren
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a graveside service for Shirley, to be held at Wardell Cemetery, Pine Street Wardell on FRIDAY (August 11, 2023) commencing at 10.00 am. No owers by request, donations in lieu to care.org.au or may be le with the Funeral Director. e family also request that you wear colourful attire.
04.03.1936 – 04.08.2023
Elva Fay Cook, nee’ Bryce. Late of Goonellabah, Formerly of Alstonville. Passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Friday the 4th of August 2023. Aged 87 Years.
Dearly loved Wife of John McLean. Loved Mother and Mother-in-Law to Andrew, Stephanie & Alvin, Robyn & Robert, and Megan.
Family would like to thank the sta at Lismore Base Hospital, wards C7 and C8 for the care and compassion they gave to Elva during her time there.
Relatives and Friends are invited to attend Elva’s Funeral Service to be held at e Wilson Chapel, Parkview Funeral Home, Goonellabah on Tuesday the 15th of August 2023 at 10.30am. A er the service a cortege will leave for Alstonville Cemetery.
Ballina 02 6686 7036
Passed away peacefully on 31st July at Lismore Base Hospital. Late of Ruthven. Aged 94 years. Dearly loved husband of Lexie. Much loved father & father-in-law of Julie (decd), Graham & Barbara, Lindy & Brett Organ. Cherished Pop of Karen, Andrew, Kylie, Angelina, Rebecca and Nicholas, and Great-Pop of their families. Loved and sadly missed by all the Paterson & Sneath families.
Relatives & friends of Tom are invited to attend his funeral service to be held this FRIDAY 11th August, 2023 commencing at 10am in e Wilson Chapel, Parkview Funeral Home, 43 Holland Street, Goonellabah. Livestreaming from the Chapel will be available at the following link: https://vimeo.com/event/3606840
This page is dedicated to all those that have passed
Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located at Kooyong State Conservation Area, Banyabba Road, Gibberagee, NSW 2469 www.rfnsa.com.au/2469004
1. Telstra Limited (A.C.N 051 775 556) are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities to allow for the introduction of 5G to Telstra’s network. As part of this network upgrade, Telstra proposes the installation of LTE700 (4G) and NR850 (5G) technologies at Gibberagee locality and surrounds.
2. The proposed works at the above site includes the removal of four (4) existing panel antennas and one (1) solid parabolic dish antenna and the installation of four (4) new panel antennas (each no more than 2.8m long) and one (1) solid parabolic dish antenna (no more than 2.4m in width). The proposal also includes the installation of two (2) remote radio units (RRUs) and the installation of associated ancillary equipment. All internal equipment will be housed within the existing equipment shelter located at the base of the facility.
3. Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low-Impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the above description.
4. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/ or written submissions should be directed to Matilde Tobon, Aurecon Australasia Pty Ltd (A.B.N 54 005 139 873) via email to: Matilde.TobonMaya@aurecongroup.com or via post to:Matilde Tobon, Aurecon Australasia, PO Box 23061, Docklands, VIC, 8012 by 5pm on 24/08/2023.
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 cupper 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.
We are called Plateau Quilters Alstonville we meet the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the Month at the RSL Hall Alstonville from 1pm until 4pm New members would be most welcome.
Contact Rhonda Bonner
66298267
Phone numbers only, no email addresses
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.
Join Alstonville Plateau Historical Society for a celebration of all things gardening, past and present, from botanicals to gnomes. Our latest exhibition, Spade Work, features the garden at Crawford House Museum through the ages, as well as the award-winning gardens of the Alstonville area. It will run until Friday 24th November. Crawford House Museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open on Fridays 10am-4pm and Sundays 1pm - 4pm or at other times by appointment for groups. There are facilities for research about Ballina Shire families, as well as books about local history and commemorative wineglasses and keyrings for sale. For enquiries, call 6628 1829.
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 call us.
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 plateauAlstonville & 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
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 ARE YOU
NEW HOBBY??? COME AND JOIN THE HEADLINERS CHORUS
We are an all-female group of all ages who love to sing “Acappella” in 4-part Barbershop harmony. We are well known in the Northern Rivers community and would love you to join us. Come along to a rehearsal on Monday nights from 7pm and for more information see our website or enquire to Tracey Ezzy on 0438 446 809
BALLINA UNITING CHURCH
A mini market and morning tea to support Frontier Services will be held at the church hall, 54 Cherry St Ballina on Sunday 20th August at 10:15am. Delicious morning tea by donation. There will also be stalls selling cakes, biscuits, produce, craft, plants and bric-a brac. Everyone is welcome.
BALLINA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE INC. (BACCI)
Ballina Hospital Auxiliary
Our new executive is now in place and our President for the coming year is Meg Gordon, Secretary is Chris Penn. Treasurer is unchanged as Jenny Williams is continuing. Vice Presidents are Dorothy Staples and Lynne Hancock who are all helped by a committee of Assistants.
Our frst event for the new fnancial year will be at the Alstonville Quota Craft Show on the 26th and 27th August, where we will have a craft and preserves stall. Our next Ballina Street Stall is on Thursday 21st September outside The Greater Bank on River Street, Ballina where we will have our Cakes, Craft and Raffe.
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 FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH
on Monday nights at 7pm in the Ballina RSL Auditorium. We are an Accapella ladies chorus of varied ages and interests, but all share the same love for singing in harmony together and welcome all newcomers with open arms so come and give it a try.
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.
EMBROIDERERS GROUP
Meetings are 9.30am-2.30pm 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month except December and January. Our venue is the Resource Centre at the rear of Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. We welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet, share and learn.
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 SUBBRANCH
Alstonville RSL sub-Branch will now hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am at the RSL Hall, 13 Bugden Ave (next door to the Alstonville Medical Centre). All ex-Service persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning
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 CWA BRANCH
Ladies that are at a loose end on a Wednesday morning, might like to come and join our happy band of members. We meet every Wednesday from 9.00am to noon and can learn many crafts from fellow ladies. Barbara, our Handicraft’s Offcer (0428116668) is there to lend a hand when help is needed. She also teaches us new handicraft techniques. If you have any UFO’s (unfnished objects) why not call in to see us for the morning? Morning tea is served at a cost of just $3. All are welcome. Mahjong is played in our rooms every Wednesday and Thursday from 12.30pm at a cost of $4. Everyone welcome.
Ballina Free Community Hot Brunch, First Saturday of each month. Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a hot brunch of sausages, rissoles bacon & eggs, cereal, tea and coffee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take away meals available.
Carol: 0438812235
BALLINA LADIES PROBUS
Ballina Ladies Probus welcomes new members. We meet at the Ballina RSLClub the frst Wednesday of the month at 10 am, and after a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit two, listen to a guest speaker. For more information call Wendy 0410 560 916 or Beryl 0419 285 282
We are taking names for our shopping trip to Ballina Fair on November 29th. $26.00. The bus will pick up at Alstonville, West Ballina, and Ballina RSL. Contact Wendy 0410 560 916 or Pamela 6681 1022
Our September speaker will be Sue Perrow, an author and therapeutic storyteller for children.
A very successful night was held at the Ballina RSL on 31st July. The Headliners Chorus had a “Come and Try in July” to welcome any prospective ladies to the chorus and we were thrilled to have NINE ladies arrive full of enthusiasm and eager to see if this could be their new hobby. Cath Gordon, our director, soon had them buddied up to chorus members and soon we were singing our rehearsal scales and warmups which led into the “good stuff”. It was wonderful to have them swell our numbers and we look forward to them returning
PROBUS CLUB OF BALLINA WATERS
The Probus Club of Ballina Waters will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday 16th August at the Cherry Street Sports Club commencing at 10.00 a.m. The guest speakers will be Col Lee who will talk about the rebuilding of houses affected by last year’s foods. There will be a brunch in lieu of a lunch at the end of the month. 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.
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
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
BYRON BAY
THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA
BYRON BAY SUBBRANCH
An invitation is given to one and all to attend the Byron Bay Vietnam Veterans Day Service at the Memorial Cenotaph, Cnr Marvel & Tennyson Streets, Byron Bay on Friday 18th August 2023, Commencing at 11 a.m.”
CASINO
CASINO COMMUNITY
MEN’S SHED
Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am1.30pm. Contact 66626423
The CWA Casino Day’s next monthly meeting is at the Casino Community Centre 9.00am Thursday August 17th (3rd Thursday of the Month) 2023. All welcome, come and have a cuppa and see what we are about.
Enquires Margaret Good 66621746, Jennifer Baker 043892060.
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 0417798622
CASINO FUN DAY OUT FOR SENIORS
A day out for ALL LONELY
PEOPLE of our aged communities from Casino, Kyogle, Lismore, Coraki, Woodburn and Evans Head.
Feel free to get your own group together for a great day.
Where: Casino RSM Club
Date: Friday 15th September
2023
Time: 10.30am-2.30pm
Cost: $10
10.30am: Sandra BinneySolicitor, information on necessity of wills, power of attorney and guardianship.
10.45am: ViviannaPharmacist @ Scrivener & Webb, information about available and supplied
services.
11.00am: Gerard DunlopSeniors Right Service, information about rights as older citizens.
11.20am: Lucky Door Prizes and Raffes Drawn.
12.00pm: Light lunch served with tea/coffee.
12.45pm: Entertainment from The Minstrels.
Contact: Jan Danaher0414625680 for Transport, Seating, Catering Purposes and any other Enquiries.
CASINO GALLERY-ART at the CASSINO GALLERY.
The Casino Art Group meets here every Thursday to Saturdays 10am to 3pm Interested in promoting YOUR medium? Come to the gallery for information.
CASINO 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 & DISTRICT ORCHID SOCIETY
Meet the 4th Thursday each month. At St Marks Anglican Hall @ 6:30pm
Elizabeth Brand and Helpers
Uniting Church Hall canterbury st Casino. $5 entry tea/coffee eats available for purchase.300
original a4 art works on show and available for a donation Larger artwork priced accordingly Craft items For sale, macramé, crotchet and knitted items to purchase All proceeds to aid the Baptist mission union working in Homabay, Kenya supporting 5 widows and orphans, food and education for 40 children ,building etc Meet Colin Bennett our contact who will be here on the day please contact Elizabeth 02 66623802 or Julie 0402663528
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 1
MONDAY
D.Clarke & D.Allen
TUESDAY
K.Evans & K.Rowse
WEDNESDAY
L.Douglas
K.Bratti & own help
THURSDAY
H.Mofftt & J.Hanna
M.Goodlad & own help
FRIDAY
L. Dorrington & S. Forrester
P.Plunkett & Own help
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 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
CASINO COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB INC
will be holding their next social upstairs at the Casino RSM Club on Sunday the 20th of August from 10.00am Come along and enjoy some great country music and take advantage of the meals & drinks offered by the RSM Club.
New Artists always welcome Free entry, raffes, lucky door prize Carole 0438641500
Fairy Hill Craft group is on Thursday September 7, 10 am at Fairy Hill Hall on Summerland Way. This is our annual BRING AND BUY market/stall, with proceeds toward Hall upkeep. Please bring donated item/ items to sell, with price marked & a little cash to buy something. It would also be a great day to join the Fairy Hill Craft group. BYO craft project to work on and your lunch; tea/ coffee provided. For further details please phone Sue on 66633233
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 0427133372
LION’S CLUB CASINO
Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start.
Secretary: Denise Green 0448014682
LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION
Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.
ST MARKS OLD TIME
NEW VOGUE DANCE CLUB
St Marks Anglican church hall Barker Street Casino. Old Time and New Vogue. Revision & Beginners. Every Tuesday from 3pm5.30pm @ $5 per head. First Saturday night of each month from 7pm -10pm @ $10 per person.
Live music Judy Johnson New members, all ages most welcome. Bring a plate to share in a supper. Contact Ronald: 66623328 / mob: 0449710552.
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
TABLE TENNIS AT GOONELLABAH
Tuesday and Thursday mornings social playing: 9am-12noon; Monday and Wednesday nights social playing: 7-9pm; Training Monday mornings: 9am12noon; Junior coaching after school Wednesday 3.30pm-4.45pm, $6 a session. Everybody is welcome – all levels. Phone centre on 66251602. Mon-Thurs 9.00am-1.00pm
THE PROBUS CLUB of Goonellabah meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Workers Sports Club in Oliver Ave. All welcome. Goonellabah Probus is solely a social club. We have a guest speaker each month and go for outings throughout the year. Meetings on Thursday commence at 10am and fnish at midday. For further information, please contact Gloria Francis on 02 6629 1442.
GRAFTON
Grafton CWA
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. 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 cup of tea and a chat.
Members are looking forward to next year’s CWA Conference in May, which is to be hosted by the North Coast Group in Coffs Harbour. The North Coast Group is made up of 16 branches covering the area from Iluka in the north
to Urunga in the south and west to Dorrigo. Members from these branches will be helping with the organisation and running of the Conference, which should attract many visitors to the area and be of beneft to the local economy.
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
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 66447347 or 0416067315, or from Dot on 66423248 or 0477213017
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 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 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 Thurs and Sunday 1pm to 4pm $12 – Family $5 – Adult and $2 – Child. Research hours are Tues to Thurs 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.
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, Thurs, and Sun 1-4pm
Admission Family of four $12.00 Adults $5.00 and children $2.00
We have been welcoming many new members lately, if you would like to join our historical society, you too, can receive our quarterly newsletters and receive many benefts in the Research Area.
HASTINGS POINT
HASTINGS POINT COMMUNITY CHOIR
Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome
When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414794380
PROBUS CLUB OF HASTINGS POINT
The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at 10am on 3rd Tuesday each month, in the residents’ lounge at Hastings Point Tricare. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president 0409872773 for additional information.
KINGSCLIFF KINGSCLIFF TWEED COAST U3A (University of 3rd Age) established with the aim of providing a supportive and engaging environment for people over 45 years not working full-time, in promoting active aging, fostering social connections, and empowering older adults to lead fulflling lives.
At the heart of our community are the friendships that bloom and fourish.
There are over 44 Classes available for example – art,
craft, book chat, yoga, Pilates, tai chi, canasta, brain games, languages, writing life stories, walks, cycling. Membership for Term 3 & 4 (July to Dec 2023) only $40 – No limit on number of classes you can attend.
Join us to create meaningful connections, share stories, laughter, and create lasting memories.
Contact Julia 07 5524 8995
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’s next Day is on again on Sunday 13th August commencing at 11 am. KYOGLE BOWLING CLUB who will be fully catering with Bistro Meals and all drinks including tea and coffee.
EVERYONE MOST WELCOME
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 0459512249.
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 LIONS CLUB
Please save your used stamps to raise funds for The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation. Stamps are collected & forwarded on to be sorted & sold at Auction, to raise money for Children’s Mobility For further information, please contact Margaret Boxsell on 0427141425
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
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.
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 0437465642.
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.
Free Tech Help Lismore Pop-up Library every Tuesday and Thursday by appointment
Our tech team can help you master your phone, tablet, or laptop. Email, Facebook, Apps, Photos…even how to turn the thing on! Make sure to book a oneon-one, 45-minute session, that can be tailored to your individual needs!
For more information and to book an appointment phone Lismore Pop-up Library on 0266212464.
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 OCHID 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 City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday Morning 10am to 12 noon.
Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome Ph (02) 66 21 5991
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).
Lismore Home Garden and Education Club will be holding a meeting. Thursday 10th August at 1pm. East Lismore Bowling Club. Special for August Fruit or Veg. Please stage Flowers by12. 30pm.Memberships are now due. New members welcome. Bring and Buy Stall. More info contact Sec 0448294496
CO-DEPENDANTS
ANONYMOUS (CoDA)
Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships. The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or 0408336143
EAST LISMORE
BOWLING CLUB
Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome
EAST LISMORE SOCIAL TENNIS
Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.
MAINLY MUSIC
Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200
NR U3A LISMORE INC. (UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE)
Have you retired or just about to, from the workforce?
Are you looking to exercise your mind and body and keep both well oiled?
Well, Lismore U3A [university of the third age} could be just the place for you. This worldwide organisation has been running in Lismore for the past 30 years and thousands of local people have benefted from its programmes. It’s a great place to meet likeminded 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. 66227408
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: 0435990919
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 - 0402682925 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
MURWILLUMBAH TWEED COAST U3A (University of 3rd Age) established with the aim of providing a supportive and engaging environment
for people over 45 years not working full-time, in promoting active aging, fostering social connections, and empowering older adults to lead fulflling lives. At the heart of our community are the friendships that bloom and fourish.
There are over 44 Classes available for example – art, craft, book chat, yoga, pilates, tai chi, canasta, brain games, languages, writing life stories, walks, cycling.
Membership for Term 3 & 4 (July to Dec 2023) only $40 – No limit on number of classes you can attend.
Join us to create meaningful connections, share stories, laughter, and create lasting memories.
Contact Julia 07 5524 8995
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.
Mummulgum
Mummulgum Hall Bingo
Thursday 7th September
Morning Tea 10am Bingo
Lunch $15 Free Bus – Woolworths
Bus stop 9.30am Everyone welcome
NIMBIN
OLD TIME NIMBIN CENTRAL SCHOOL
REUNION
We are pleased to invite you and your partner to join your fellow classmates for drinks and lunch at the Nimbin Bowling Club Sunday the 10th of September 2023. Club opens at 10am. Bistro opens for lunch at 12pm. Approximately $20. Chefs’ menu will be provided closer to the day.
Photo ID will be required for club entrance.
We will need numbers for catering by the last meeting in mid-August 2023, please reply to an organiser by this time.
Royce Andrews: 0477006140, Rhonda Ryan (Whitney): 0448234254
POTTSVILLE
Pottsville Alcoholics Anonymous: Is drinking costing you more than money? AA works and is very active in Pottsville.
We meet every Thursday 7pm at St Marks 15A Coronation Ave Pottsville and local contact 1800 423 431 or 04019 45671
POTTSVILLE
TWEED COAST U3A (University of 3rd Age) established with the aim
of providing a supportive and engaging environment for people over 45 years not working full-time, in promoting active aging, fostering social connections, and empowering older adults to lead fulflling lives.
At the heart of our community are the friendships that bloom and fourish.
There are over 44 Classes available for example – art, craft, book chat, yoga, Pilates, tai chi, canasta, brain games, languages, writing life stories, walks, cycling.
Membership for Term 3 & 4 (July to Dec 2023) only
$40 – No limit on number of classes you can attend. Join us to create meaningful connections, share stories, laughter, and create lasting memories.
Contact Julia 07 5524 8995
POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB
Meets at Black Rocks Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375.
POTTSVILLE LADIES LIFEBALL
Every Thursday morning 9.30am to 11.30am. Pottsville Community Hall, $5 per session includes morning tea. No joining fees. Ph: Jan 0431909760.
TWEED HEADS
Gardeners or Potters
Twin Towns and District Garden Club meets every second Monday of the month. December is awards and presentations. Our next meeting is Monday 14th August 2023. Time: Meeting starts 10 am. Doors open 8.30 am NSW time. Meetings Venue: Tweed Heads Civic Centre Auditorium next to Library, Brett Street, Tweed Heads. Guest Speaker: AugustAnne Whittingham - Feng Shui in garden design We offer raffes, lucky door prize, presidents award, trading tables, cuttings table, members prize draw, Benching of plants and fowers and foral art both novice and senior. Begonia Society, Social Morning teas, bus trips and best of all Friendship. Come along, bring a mug to share a coffee or tea with like-minded gardeners. See you there, don’t forget to bring a mug.
TWEED COAST U3A
(University of 3rd Age) established with the aim of providing a supportive and engaging environment for people over 45 years not working full-time, in promoting active aging, fostering social connections, and empowering older adults to lead fulflling lives. At the heart of our community are the friendships that bloom and fourish. There are over 44 Classes available for example – art, craft, book chat, yoga, Pilates, tai chi, canasta, brain games, languages, writing
life stories, walks, cycling. Membership for Term 3 & 4 (July to Dec 2023) only $40 – No limit on number of classes you can attend. Join us to create meaningful connections, share stories, laughter, and create lasting memories. Contact Julia 07 5524 8995
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 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
V I E W as in Voice, Interests, Education of Women (Not many people are aware of what ‘VIEW’ club stands for!) AND NOT ONLY IN NAME: We are a group of ladies who care what will become of our youth! Our heritage – Their heritage – It is sad but true that many of our young people have no direction in their lives. Every morning we wake to the news that violence has occurred overnight in what was once considered a safe neighborhood. How do these offending children/ youth feel the next morning knowing they have caused so much heartache - is this why we also hear of youth harming themselves so they can spread the pain? So, this is where VIEW Clubs and other similar clubs are starting from the bottom of the ladder by providing much needed funds to educate our youngsters so they will WANT to become the very best person they can not only in education but in their community and being proud of themselves and
giving their parents hope for their child’s future. We at TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB PROVIDE THE NECESSARY FUNDS to educate just 7 of these children. We know not where they come from, but someone in their community has contacted THE SMITH FAMILY and they in turn contact VIEW CLUBS OF AUSTRALIA who anonymously contact a VIEW Club who in turn take over the responsibility for these worthy children’s fees and so year after year their tertiary fees are paid. These fees are raised by VIEW Club members who attend meetings, listen to interesting guest speakers and regularly have days out at each other’s homes – so FUN and a tremendous satisfaction of knowing we are helping our future generation. More information can be gleaned by contacting our President Kathie on 0407709629.
WOLLONGBAR
WOLLONGBAR PROBUS CLUB meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Alstonville Plateau Bowls and Sports Club, 10-14 Deegan Drive Alstonville, at 10.00am.
The next meeting will be on Thursday 17th August, our guest speaker is Lyn Lockery a Local Poet.
Our next bus trip is to Tropical Fruit World on Wednesday 25th October. Visitors are welcome to join our bus trip. Contact Keith on 66280393 for more details.
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.
NORTHERN RIVERS EVENING PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Parkinson’s NSW Lismore Regional Support Group. We meet every third Friday of the month. Next group Meeting is Friday, 18th of August. Commences at 10am to 12pm at the South Lismore Bowls Club, 25 Wilson Street South Lismore. New members welcomed. Snacks & cold drinks available. Tea and Coffee with a Gold Coin Donation Social Networking with Tea and Coffee, Companion Support Group, and the rescheduled Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month Bowls Day contact Marie 0448871290
Al-Anon Family Groups: 1300 252 666 * al-anon.org. au * Not everyone trapped by alcohol is an alchoholic. Family and friends are suffering too. Al-Anon and Alateen can help.
BALLINA, WEDNESDAY, 6.30pm, St Mary’s Anglican Church Admin Building, 24 Burnet St (also via Zoom Meeting, ID 25260000, dialin option: +61 2 8015 6011)
Al-Anon Family Groups: 1300 252 666 * al-anon.org. au * Not everyone trapped by alcohol is an alchoholic. Family and friends are suffering too. Al-Anon and Alateen can help.
BANORA POINT, MONDAY, 6.30pm, Salvation Army,
The Community Centre, cnr Woodlands and Leisure Drives
Al-Anon Family Groups: 1300 252 666 * al-anon.org. au * Not everyone trapped by alcohol is an alchoholic. Family and friends are suffering too. Al-Anon and Alateen can help.
BANGALOW, FRIDAY
2.00PM, via Zoom Meeting, ID 25260000, dial-in option: +61 2 8015 6011
Al-Anon Family Groups: 1300 252 666 * al-anon.org. au * Not everyone trapped by alcohol is an alchoholic. Family and friends are suffering too. Al-Anon and Alateen can help.
CHINDERAH, SUNDAY 4.00pm, Seventh Day Adventist Church, 83 Phillip St
Al-Anon Family Groups: 1300 252 666 * al-anon.org. au * Not everyone trapped by alcohol is an alchoholic. Family and friends are suffering too. Al-Anon and Alateen can help.
GRAFTON, TUESDAY, 12.00 noon, CWA Rooms, Market Square, Duke St
Al-Anon Family Groups: 1300 252 666 * al-anon.org. au * Not everyone trapped by alcohol is an alchoholic. Family and friends are suffering too. Al-Anon and Alateen can help.
ILUKA, MONDAY 11.00am, Iluka CWA Hall, 2 Charles Street (behind Iluka Museum)
Al-Anon Family Groups: 1300 252 666 * al-anon.org. au * Not everyone trapped by alcohol is an alchoholic. Family and friends are suffering too. Al-Anon and Alateen can help.
LISMORE/ GOONELLABAH, TUESDAY, 1.00pm, The Studio, 14 Pleasant St, Goonellabah (also via Zoom Meeting, ID 25260000, dialin option: +61 2 8015 6011)
Al-Anon Family Groups: 1300 252 666 * al-anon.org. au * Not everyone trapped by alcohol is an alchoholic. Family and friends are suffering too. Al-Anon and Alateen can help.
MURWILLUMBAH
WEDNESDAY, 1.00pm, Church of Christ, 18 William St, Murwillumbah
Al-Anon Family Groups: 1300 252 666 * al-anon.org. au * Not everyone trapped by alcohol is an alchoholic. Family and friends are suffering too. Al-Anon and Alateen can help.
TWEED HEADS, THURSDAY, 5.00pm, NSW TIME, St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church Hall, 13 Powell St (cnr Florence St)
TWEED HEADS, ALATEEN, THURSDAY, 5.00pm, St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church Hall, 13 Powell St (cnr Florence St)
Warnings
See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings
Northern Rivers District:
Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers near the coast, slight chance elsewhere. Light winds.
Thursday. Sunny. The chance of morning fog inland. Light winds becoming northerly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.
Northern Tablelands District:
Mostly sunny. The chance of morning fog in the south. Areas of morning frost. Light winds.
Thursday. Patches of frost and the chance of fog in the morning. Mostly sunny afternoon. Winds west to northwesterly 20 to 30 km/h.
New South Wales:
The chance of an early shower along the northern coast, and a possible late shower in the far southwest. Fine and mostly sunny otherwise. Areas of morning frost about the southern inland, and along the ranges. Daytime temperatures near average about the northern coast, and above average elsewhere. Southeast to northeasterly winds near the coast, and north to northwesterly winds inland.
Thursday. Showers across the southern inland, increasing to rain periods about western slopes of the southern ranges. Snow on the Alps above 1400 metres. Fine and mostly sunny elsewhere. Daytime temperatures near average across the southern inland, and above average elsewhere. North to northwesterly winds, shifting fresh southwesterly in the south and west.
Byron Coast:
Winds: South to southeasterly 10 to 15 knots tending east to southeasterly below 10 knots during the afternoon. Seas: Around 1 metre. 1st Swell: Southeasterly around 1 metre. 2nd Swell: East to southeasterly around 1 metre. Weather: 80% chance of showers. Coffs Coast:
Winds: South to southeasterly 10 to 15 knots decreasing to about 10 knots during the day then becoming east to northeasterly during the evening. Seas: Below 1 metre. 1st Swell: South to southeasterly around 1 metre. 2nd Swell: Easterly around 1 metre. Weather: 70% chance of showers.
Gold Coast Waters:
Winds: South to southeasterly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to 1 metre during the afternoon or evening. 1st Swell: Southeasterly around 1 metre. 2nd Swell: Easterly around 1 metre. Weather: 80% chance of showers.
Sun6:24am5:19pm
Moon12:21am11:10am
The Clarence Valley will farewell one of its sporting icons this weekend at a special service to honour Lower Clarence rowing legend Harold Kratz who has died aged 96.
Tributes have fooded in from around the country following the death of the much loved competitor and coach whose love of the sport knew no bounds.
While he competed as a rower right up to his late 80s, often rowing with wife Hazel, who died in 2019, it was as a coach Harold had most impact.
Hazel, a relative latecomer to the sport, took up rowing because Harold’s involvement in the sport was so intense..
“If I wanted to see him, I had to to take up rowing,” she said.
“In about 1968 or 69 I began rowing and have been doing it ever since.”
The pair have teamed up in Masters events winning many medals in State and National competitions, with their best effort a silver in the World Masters games.
His rowing career began in 1948 as a competitor with Maclean Rowing Club (now Lower Clarence Amateur Rowing and Sculling Club), where he remained throughout his career.
The top echelons of Australian rowing held him in such high esteem he was awarded an Australian Sports Medal on 2000 and the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2021.
When Rowing NSW endorsed his nomination for an Australian Honour they highlighted that he has served on the committee of his club, maintained their equipment and coached their crews.
“He established an record of producing fne young scullers with a
strong work ethic and a humble, down to earth attitude that set them up well for not only their rowing careers but life after their competition days have passed,” the report noted.
Harold’s enviable record included winning fve National Championships as a coach or co-coach between 2006 and 2010.
Between 2008 and 2011 he coached Rachael See, Riley Elvery and Leah Saunders onto Australian teams to compete at the World Junior Rowing Championships And Leah Saunders went on to a successful career in the Australian senior team winning medals at World Championships.
Rowing NSW also noted that Maclean High School has been the recipient of many years of his coaching and much of their success is attributable to his work.
Harold also worked as a satellite coach with the North Coast Academy of Sport since its inception in the early part of this century coaching regularly at academy
camps as well as mentoring other rowing coaches for more than 20 years.
His enormous contribution to the sport was acknowledged when Harold was the recipient of the Rusty Robertson MBE Award from Rowing NSW in season 2010-2011 which is awarded to an individual or group of individuals who have made a signifcant and sustained contribution to the endeavours and objects of the Association.”
The NSW Union of Rowers have recognised Harold’s considerable impact on the sport in awarding him the Master of the Year Award for his outstanding contribution to Masters rowing and his dedication to the ideals of the sport over the decades.”
The sport is grateful for the enormous contribution made by Harold and we, along with the hundreds of rowers who learned plenty from him, will miss him dearly. Our thoughts are with his family: children Robert and Marg, Murray and Tristen, Peter, and
David; grandfather of six, great-grandfather and great-greatgrandfather to their
families.
A service and wake to celebrate Harold’s life will be held at The
River Room (former RSL building), Maclean at 2pm on Saturday 12th August 2023.
Grafton Ghosts coach and stand-in captain
Adam Slater has inspired his makeshift team to a 28-22 win over the Nambucca Heads Roosters at Frank McGuren Field on Sunday.
Slater led from the front in all aspects of a game which see-sawed for the full 80 minutes as one side then the other clawed into the lead only to fall back again.
He scored three tries with powerful surges close to the line, made crucial tackles and ran the ball strongly.
And his leadership inspired a team crippled by injuries and players playing out of position to keep its focus in a high pressure game.
The Ghosts went into the game with fullback
Cooper Woods at half, backrower Clay Watters-Campbell at hooker and a number
of players battling niggling injuries.
Regular captain Todd Cameron was out with
a groin injury forcing Slater to take a strong leaders role on feld.
Slater also revealed
a phone call on the weekend had convinced former Ghosts captain coach Ben McLennan
to suit up for at least one more game and hopefully more with the Ghosts still a semi-fnal
06-08-2023
The monthly medal was won by Gary Shephard with a net score of 20 from Dave Roberts with 28. The putting trophy went to W.Jackson with 16 putts and D.Hampson won the players draw. Nearest to pins: 8th & 12th, G.Skennar.9th, G.Randall.10th & 11th, R.Ruttley. 13th, D.Hampson. 14th, M.Rankin. 15th, G.Shephard. 16th, W.Jackson. 17th, Vinny. 18th, J.Rankin.Next
Sunday’s event sponsored by Richmond Valley Meats in the RSM Shopping Village Casino will be a single stroke on the bottom 10 holes and visitors are welcome to play with hit off from 6-30am till 7-30am.
Casino Women’s Bowls results
2023 club selected open pairs champions.
C. Haynes & C. Doyle
Results from Minor Pairs started today & the results were:
J. Creighton & D. Skinner def T. Maxwell & M. Mead
C. Haynes & J. Carthew def L. James & D. Grice
Congratulations to the winners.
The fnal game for the Minor Pairs will be played on Wednesday 9/8
Good luck to these ladies playing in the fnals.
We also had a social game & the winners for the day were:
A. James, C, Doyle, R. Skirrey & K. Jonsson def
A. James, K. Walters, I. Watson & H. Lavelle
We will have the Major Pairs starting on
Wednesday 16/8
CHERRY STREET
CROQUET CLUB SPORTS RESULTS
ASSOCIATION
CROQUET :
P.Waters L.Hardy 15 d
B.Hardy D Scott 12
M.Gidding 21 d
R.Chapman 18
G.Drew 8 d
C.Woodlands D.Scott 7
RICOCHET CROQUET :
N.Watts R.Hannigan 14 d N.Barnes C.Woodlands
10
P.Waters 14 d
R.Chapman D.Scott 8
N.Barnes C.Woodlands
14 d R.Offey N.Watts
10
R.Poynting C.Lane 8 d
J.Doust B.Waters 8
P.Scott M.Russell 10 d
N.Poynting 8
P.Bolte 12 d J.Hannigan 12
Club Championships
Division 1 : R.Chapman 21 d
P.Waters 10
TOURNAMENTS : Sawtell Golf Croquet
Singles : Block B Division. Denise Simmons 4th, Graham Mahoney 7th Block E Division Christine Mahoney 5th.
winners W Lunnon, J Sauer, S Toms, R Mackay, R Webber, J Savins, A Ganter, J Nilsson, G Flaherty, T Patch. Nearest pins 3rd/12th J Lassig 6th/15th T Patch Putting comp T Patch J Lassig.
07-23 - Lucky RinkWinners - M. Burdekin, K. Hickey, J. Bilney. Runners/up - C. Hammon, M. Gibson, M. Playford, R. Roberts. 02-08-23 - Lucky Rink - Winners - M. Keeffe, J. Smith, J. Phillips, J. Bilney.
CORAKI VETERANS GOLF RESULTS
THURSDAY 3/8/23
A large feld played the August Monthly Medal winner J Lassig, vets winner J Voght, 2nd S McDonough, 3rd B McDonald, free game P Bruggy, chicken/ball
This Thursday will be the start of the vets championships golfers are reminded that three out of the four rounds are counted and for the championship you retain the handicap that you started on. Hit off time will be a shot gun start at 8.30am. Golfers are reminded that our Vets open day will be played on Tuesday 22/8 if you are intending to play in this event please nominate on the sheet on the notice board in the clubhouse.
AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD
GOLFING Max
Ladies Social Day - 19-
Winter Triples - 2023
This event is a Round Robin Competition & commenced on 02-0823. ResultsRound 1M. Adams, L. Vidler, B. Montague defeated B. Hancock, G. Marczan, K. Keevers.
J. Beckett, M. Gibson, S. Downs defeated J. Williams, K. Townsend, E. Gollan.
C. Hammond, A. Eyles, V. Hart defeated S. Maxwell, M. Carey, J. Fernance.
V. Forshaw, K. Robson, P. Freeman - Bye. Round 2 - (Skips only)
P. Freeman defeated B. Montague. V. Hart defeated E. Gollan.
S. Downs defeated J. Fernance. K. Keevers - Bye
Grafton Ghost’s big prop Mitch Garbutt was one of his team’s best on Sunday against Nambucca, scoring a try and posing a constant threat with his powerful running and offoads.chance.
The frst 15 minutes of the game was pretty traditional stuff with both sets of forwards ripping in, trying to get on top.
The Roosters fullback Robert Smith used his massive high kick at the end of most of their sets of six to terrorise new Ghosts fullback Wirri Boland.
To their credit, the Ghosts back three of Boland, Liam Bloomer and Jay Olsen managed to defuse each bomb, but not without some anxious moments.
But it was a Roberts fick pass to a fying Roosters centre Tyrees Sines that opened the scoring in the right corner. Halfback
Tyrone Roberts-Davis missed the conversion.
The Ghosts had several chances to equalise, but were denied by some good Roosters defence and poor last tackle options.
But midway through the half the Ghosts got it right and a grubber from fve-eighth Thomas Bowles eluded the defence for Slater to pick up and plunge across the line. Wood’s
now had a handy 12-4 lead.
As half time closed the Ghosts were awarded a penalty close to goal and Slater opted for a shot at goal, which Woods converted to take the score to 12-4.
The Ghosts kicked another penalty goal in bizarre circumstance after the half-time siren.
Woods had a kick a long-range shot at goal that missed, but was
which he converted. Although in front 16-4 at half time, the scoreline fattered the Ghosts and when the Roosters scored a miraculous try early in the half, you could sense a comeback was on.
Chasing a kick that looked to be going over the dead ball line, centre Michael Tyerman dived and batted the ball back into play where backrower and one of the Roosters’ best Khan Jarrett dived on it to score.
Hooker Jai Waddy took over the kicking and converted the try for a 16-10 scoreline.
The Ghosts lead was whittled away further when a succession of penalties allowed the Roosters to set up camp on the Ghosts line.
The pressure told when Roberts-Davis threw a big dummy and strolled through some tired defence to score under the posts. The conversion made it 16-16.
Again it was a run from a few metres out which led to the try, which Woods converted, giving them a 22-16 lead.
The Rooster weren’t done with yet and another Roberts-Davis try near the uprights, after the Ghosts failed to gather a bouncing ball in the in-goal, levelled the scores again at 22-22 with about 12 minutes on the clock.
The Ghosts winner came in the fnal 10 minutes of the game, when the Ghosts biggest bopper Mitch Garbutt charged over from 10m out using his powerful fend to push away defenders and score just to the right of the posts. Woods converted to level the score.
Both sides had chances in the fnal minutes, including a devastating Roosters breakout that should have led to a try except for a wayward fnal pass to a support player.
owed it to them to lead from the front,” he said. He said it had been a big boost to the side when McLennan agreed to play and hoped he would suit up for the rest of the season.
Bouncing back after three losses leaves the Ghosts with semi-fnal prospect, although they face the dangerous Bellingen Magpies in the fnal competition game on Sunday.
“They’re a side you can’t take too easily,” Slater said. “They’ve knocked over a couple of good sides this year.
The South Grafton Rebels have a chance to close out the minor premiership at home on Sunday despite a 12-6 loss to Woolgoolga on Sunday.
The Rebels scored early and held a 6-0 lead until well into the second half, courtesy of a Jamal Laurie try and Nick McGrady intercept.
conversion from close to the posts put the Ghosts into the lead, 6-4.
Minutes later Slater was in again in almost an identical position, this time surging over from close range. Woods was again successful and Ghosts
caught by RobertsDavis who chipped ahead.
But when a Rooster who was in front of him attempted to tackle the Ghosts player who caught the ball, the referee gave Woods another shot at goal from much closer,
It was also the time Slater decided it was time for McLennan to come off the bench.
Fittingly it was Slater who broke the deadlock, punishing some lapses of discipline from Nambucca which gave the Ghosts a chance to exert pressure.
After the game Slater downplayed his heroics, saying he’d mainly been trying to set an example to his teammates to keep digging deep.
“There were blokes out there playing out of position, some who probably shouldn’t have been playing and I
Two second half tries from the Seahorses were enough to seal the win, but Macksville’s 26-24 win over the Coffs Comets kept the Rebels on top of the table.
A win over Sawtell on Sunday will give South Grafton the minor premiership in a competition where only three points separates frst from sixth.
Grafton winger Jay Olsen feels the weight of a gang tackle from Nambucca forwards as he hits the ball up coming out of defence. Photo: Gary Nichols. Grafton Ghosts backrower Justin King added some sting to the Ghosts defence when he came off the bench against Nambucca on Sunday.
