The Northern Rivers Times News ED241

2.5% pay rise recommended for council GM

TIM HOWARD

Just a year after splitting itself in two over a decision to award its general manager

Laura Black a pay rise, Clarence Valley Council is on the verge of doing it again, only bigger.

At Thursday’s frst council meeting of 2025 councillors will vote on a mayoral minute to: 1. note the Annual Performance Management report from the Performance Management Review Panel.

2.endorse the recommendation from the Performance Management Review Panel to award the General Manager 2.5% performance pay increase under Clause 8.3 of the Standard Contract of Employment for General Managers of Local Councils in New South Wales with the increase backdated to October 7, 2024.

The performance review panel of mayor Ray Smith, deputy Mayor Cr Greg Clancy plus Cr’s Cristie Yager and Debrah Novak undertook an assessment of the performance of the general manager over the past six months.

The Mayoral minute

reported the panel said Ms Black “met, and in some instances exceeded targets”.

“The panel acknowledged the general manager’s leadership and positive impact on staff culture. The general manager fosters strong relationships through accessibility, effective delegation, and consistent management practices.

“Staff feel supported and capable, and there is mutual professional respect between senior staff and the general manager. Improvements in staff retention and engagement with the community have been noted, alongside a positive relationship with unions.

“Reporting to councillors is generally satisfactory, with only minor delays. The leadership team’s capability and the general manager’s proactive problemsolving are recognised.

“Overall, performance and engagement are steadily improving, supported by council and the review panel.”

Last year the general manager’s performance review panel awarded Ms Black a 2% increase on her $342,000 salary

adding around $7000 to her pay packet.

If the mayoral minute succeeds on Thursday, Ms Black would receive about $9000 and push her annual salary towards $360,000.

The move has angered some in the community with social media commentary condemning the increase.

One of the most vocal, Yamba’s Craigh McNeill, has run posts critical of the general manager’s performance.

He also said he has spent between $15,000 and $20,000 to appeal

a NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal ruling concerning the defamation action involving the council, Ms Black and the community group, the Yamba Community Action Network. The appeal will be heard on March 14.

Mr McNeill has urged the community to turn out in force for Thursday’s meeting in Grafton.

The performance review panel process has been a fraught one with criticism from some councillors that it is little

more than a box ticking exercise.

One of those critics is the deputy Mayor Greg Clancy, who has been a critic of the structure of the review panel.

He survived an attempt to have the deputy mayor’s automatic selection on the panel overturned at a council meeting late last year.

At the time he said he was prepared to serve on the panel even though he was not happy with the process.

At the time much was made of his decision in 2023 to walk out of a review panel meeting in protest at the way it had been run.

He was also a member of a group of four councillors in the last council term who brought a rescission motion to council seeking to overturn the general manager’s 2% pay rise a year ago.

The three other councillors who opposed the pay rise last time, Ian Tiley, Jeff Smith and Bill Day did not stand for re-election at last year’s election.

There will be close scrutiny of the voting pattern when this is the frst item of business in Grafton on Thursday, beginning at 11.30am.

Australian Unemployment Rises to 10.1% in January Amid Growing Workforce

ROBERT HEYWARD

In January 2025, Australia’s real unemployment increased by 78,000 people to 1,620,000, reaching 10.1% of the workforce (up 0.4%). The rise in unemployment was driven by more people entering the workforce, with many struggling to secure jobs.

The total Australian workforce reached a record 16,115,000, an increase of 297,000 from December. Both employment and unemployment grew, with employment rising by 219,000 to a new

high of 14,495,000, while unemployment also climbed.

Employment Growth Driven by Full-Time Jobs

January saw a surge in full-time employment, which increased by 306,000 to 9,629,000—a new

record. In contrast, part-time employment dropped for the second consecutive month, falling by 87,000 to 4,866,000.

Unemployment Rises with Workforce Expansion

•Unemployed

Australians: 1,620,000

(10.1% of workforce, up 78,000 from December)

•Looking for parttime work: 837,000 (up 36,000)

•Looking for fulltime work: 783,000 (up 42,000)

Unemployment & Underemployment Hit

Highest Levels Since 2021

Total unemployment and under-employment rose to 21.4% (up 1.1%), the highest rate since January 2021.

•Under-employed Australians (working part-time but seeking more work): 1.81 million (11.3% of workforce, up 137,000)

•Total Australians unemployed or under-

employed: 3.43 million (21.4% of workforce)

Comparison to Two Years Ago

The workforce has grown 1,090,000 since January 2023, with employment rising 1,077,000 in that time. However, the increase in workforce participation is outpacing job availability, driving up unemployment rates.

The January unemployment estimates were obtained from Roy Morgan’s national survey of Australians aged 14+, classifying individuals as unemployed if they are actively looking for work.

Clarence Valley General Manager Laura Black

Just in time for the launch of the 2025 Plunge Arts & Culture Festival, the winners of the 2025 InFocus photography competition have been released.

The timing is important as the major prize winning photograph appears on the cover of the 2025 Plunge program.

This year’s major winner in the Plunge category is local radio announcer Misty Fisher with her work entitled Jacaranda Sky.

Judges described Jacaranda Sky as a contemporary composition of Jacaranda blossoms in vibrant colour.

In the community category Abigail Smith, pitched her work, the Woodford Island Crew to the judges.

The photo of Woodford Island Crew is a joyful image that celebrates canine contributions to

Dandahra Creek is a well executed concept that is a literal representation of ‘plunge’.

The Environment

our community.

In the Landscape category Kathy Brown’s Little Dandahra Creek caught the eye of the judges.

They said Little

category winner was Mitchell Forrester with The Milky Way, Cane Fire and McFarlane Bridge.

Judges said The Milky Way, Cane Fire and

McFarlane Bridge was a technically diffcult and successfully executed scenic photograph.

In the People

Winner’s work to grace Plunge booklets

receive a $500 prize, and their images will be featured in the 2025 program.

Large-scale banners

category Paisley Faith Padayachee’s In the Spotlight was the winner, described as quirky selfcapture that is unique and interesting.

Five winners will each

featuring the winning photographs will be on display in the courtyard of the Grafton Regional Gallery from Thursday, March 27 through the month of April.

Since the judging the photographs have been displayed at the gallery and other venues across the Valley.

The festival is the Clarence Valley’s premier month-long celebration of culture offering a smorgasbord of more than 120 events throughout April.

The free, 84-page program gives locals and visitors everything they need to know to ‘plunge’ head-frst into arts and culture.

Printed copies are available at council offces, libraries, galleries and a range of arts and cultural businesses.

Mitchell Forrester’s The Milky Way, Cane Fire and McFarlane Bridge is a technically diffcult and successfully executed scenic photograph.

The major prize winner of the 2025 InFocus photography competition is Misty Fisher’s work, Jacaranda Sky.

Abigail Smith’s photo Woodford Island Crew is a joyful image that celebrates canine contributions to our community

Paisley Faith Padayachee’s In the Spotlight selfe took out the People section with its quirk subject matter.

Kathy Brown’s Little Dandahra Creek is a well executed concept that is a literal representation of ‘plunge’.

TIM HOWARD

Museum mayhem as historical society homeless

It was a letter from council to the Richmond River Historical Society that alerted president, Dr Robert Smith, to the very real fact that the organisation was effectively homeless.

Since the February 2022 foods, the society, which runs the Lismore Museum, has been working out of a popup shop in Molesworth Street, still running their exhibitions and educating locals and tourist alike of the history of the city and surrounding villages.

“Lismore rate payers have been saved the cost of paying for a museum, but the benefts have fowed back to them,” said Dr Smith in the public access time of the Lismore City Council meeting last week.

“Now it is under threat.”

Dr Smith said council had gone quiet on lease discussions as the society prepared to move back into the municipal building at 165 Molesworth Street, after reparations had been done after the food.

“We were given a ‘what if’, (with the offer of the) former tourist info centre,” said Dr Smith.

“It is much smaller in square metreage, about two thirds.

“The real problem is

it is on the ground foor and is very food prone.

“We cannot evacuate a major display in the timeframe we get with a food.

“It will be more like a museum experience, rather than a museum.”

A peaceful protest was held outside council chambers before the mid morning meeting last Tuesday, for supporters of the society to show their displeasure with council’s actions.

The events that had led to this situation came about when Mayor Steve Krieg had issued a Notice of Motion to council staff to prepare a Property Strategy to be able to manage their portfolio of property assets.

Cr Krieg said he hadn’t singled out the society, nor the municipal

building.

“It’s about the billion dollars of assets our council cannot maintain and afford,” he said.

“I didn’t write (the Notice of Motion) to target the Richmond River Historical Society.

“This isn’t an eviction of the Richmond River Historical Society.

“What I want to see done is management of our pocket parks, for example, looking after the 47 community groups that we provide peppercorn rents for.

“It’s about streamlining our operations.”

Cr Krieg was adamant that the property audit it was about seeing Lismore grow and thrive and to be able to manage all assets properly.

Cr Knight-Smith proposed an amendment to exclude the municipal

building from the audit and offer a lease to the historical society at 165 Molesworth Street as a matter of priority.

“The Richmond River Historical Society is an institution that plays a vital role that preserves the history of Lismore and the villages,” she said.

“I urge you to continue to support the Richmond River Historical Society and ensure this vital resource remains a beacon.

“This motion sets to exclude the RRHS from their home for 30 years and I ask it be removed from the motion.”

A foreshadowed amendment was raised where it was agreed that a property strategy needed to be developed, which included options for a council offce

in the Lismore CBD, with the addition of priority be given to fnd a suitable location for the Richmond River Historical Society.

As well as being food free, Dr Smith said there were a number of requirements the new location would have to have.

“Adequate security, access space, research centre with its archives to be close to objects of museum,’” he said.

“540 sqm is what we plan for.

“If a new building goes up outside the food, we’d consider it.

“One aspect of the (municipal building) is it is a heritage building, it tells part of the history already and is uniquely suited.”

The foreshadowed amendment was passed

We have no problem with council conducting an audit and presence in CBD.

In implementation, we have sharp experiences.

Pre empted by staff without notifcation to community.

Immediate consequences to museum drastic.

Ask that museum be exempted from the audit. Library, museum and gallery. Council hasn’t had to fund it’s own museum as HS has been running it for 70 years.

Lismore rate payers have been saved the cost of paying for a museum but benefts fow. Now it is under threat. Agree Lease offer

nine votes to two.

Robert Smith, Richmond River Historical Society, Lismore Museum.

Right: Supporters of the Lismore Museum staying at the municipal building in Molesworth Street, gathered before the Lismore City Council meeting last week. Picture: Facebook.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

withdrawn.

LCC went quiet on lease discussions and we thought they had a lot on their plate. Apparently property audit was already underway.

While waiting for re-occupation we were referred to contractors and waited for December 2024.

We wonder why museum has been singled out.

How can we have trust in council. From the pattern of communication it seems that council now no longer wants a museum. The best offer we had was to downsize, food prone and no longer a museum.

Cr Knight-Smith. What is suitability of what has been offered?

We were given a what if, former tourist info centre. Much smaller in square metreage. About 2/3s. Real problem is ground foor is very food prone. Cannot evacuate a major display in the timeframe we get with a food. More like a Museum experience rather than a museum.

In a world constantly moving forward, we overlook preserving our roots. What buildings are there in Lismore that are appropriate for a museum and RRHS?

We don’t see anything with the foor space that is food free. In the third meeting yesterday, we said it has to be that and in the CBD it’s the frst foor of museum building. If a new building goes up outside the food, we’d consider it. One aspect of the museum is it is a heritage building, it tells part of the history already. Uniquely suited. Could you run us through the important tenets of a museum?

Adequate security, access space, research centre with its archives to be close to objects of museum. Synergy. 540 sqm is what we plan for.

Cr Krieg

Would you like to see LCC not progress a property strategy?

We would like an amendment to preclude a museum, like the library and the gallery.

I am speaking against the motion, solely as a

way of the exclusion of the museum.

Cr Dalton-Earles

What type of docs lost in foods?

Very little with in the museum. We would not move into such a premises that was food prone. Everything we had was above last food level and in planning to go ahead, we are looking at an extra margin of safety on frst foor. If this has been a staff decision, how do we maintain this relationship?

We were led to believe we were going in there and we were looking ahead. It wasn’t communication, it was a letter that went to an old email address I no longer use. No good will. The whole process has gone legalistic and not the process I thought we had.

What is the size difference of top foor of library and RRHS has been in?

The library is councilowned. No specifc option was offered until the third meeting

Cr Guise

What is the process of entering into a lease agreement with you?

We have never had a lease as we always operated under MOU. Based on good will. We went along with the lease agreement. May meeting of council said we would receive upper foor. In June, staff went quiet and we rested on good will.

Cr Jensen

Is there any way documentation can be stored offsite?

Documentation and archives need to be together with that area. Object storage can go offsite. Pure technical area we could get that down to low 200sqm.

Cr Robb

Can you give us the beneft of the doubt?

We are already in a holding pattern. We are stored in containers. We are still making plans. Locals know there is no such building readily available. Another option was to relocate and move around until something becomes available. Many objects and the collection are fragile.

Mr Justin Drews VIC could be a solution

Police probe Grafton hockey missing money

the trail of the missing money goes back to 2019.

Police are investigating the disappearance of a “substantial amount” of money from Grafton Hockey Association, president Lyn Newby has confrmed.

Ms Newby said police have been investigating the disappearance of the money since the association became aware of it at the end of last year.

A statement from NSW Police said detectives began looking into the matter in November.

Ms Newby was reluctant to comment on the amount that has gone missing from the account and who might be responsible.

“There’s a lot of rumour and innuendo fying about, but the association won’t be commenting until the police investigation has concluded,” she said.

But Ms Newby said

She said police have access to all the association fnancial records and the investigation was ongoing.

“They have told us the investigation could take up to 12 months,” she said.

Ms Newby said in the meantime Grafton Hockey could continue its normal operations without issue.

“In the short term we can operate normally,” she said. “Any problems are going to be long term, say when some major assets need replacement we might fnd ourselves behind the eight ball.

“The senior competition begins in March and we want to assure everyone that it will go ahead as usual.”

She described the news as devastating for the tightly-knit Grafton hockey community.

“We’re a real social, community oriented organisation where people can get together and enjoy their sport,” she said.

“It’s just devastating for everyone involved in our sport.”

Ms Newby said it was shocking for people involved in Grafton Hockey for this to happen because it was an organisation where members had made massive sacrifces for the sport.

She said that when the association needed large amounts of capital to develop hockey facilities decades ago, some members had taken out mortgages on family homes to secure the funds.

Ms Newby said she was not sure if there was any chance of recovering any of the missing money.

“The police have not given us any indication that was a possibility,” she said.

Other fgures involved in the sport have been tight lipped about the issue.

They have been stunned by the amount of money that appeared to have gone missing and the betrayal of the organisation.

“I hope the one good thing that can come out of this is anyone who is tossing up whether to play or not will decide to jump in have a game this season,” said a hockey fgure who did not want to be identifed.

A police statement said that on November 27 2024, police were notifed of fraudulent activity in the bank account of a sporting club.

Offcers attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District have commenced inquiries into the incident and urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

It will be business as usual for Grafton Hockey when competition resumes next month, despite a police investigation into how a massive amount of money disappeared from the organisation. Offcials say the investigation would go back to 2019. Photo: Shirleyanne Blanchard.

TIM HOWARD

Lismore Shows Resilience Three Years After Devastating Floods

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has returned to Lismore this week to meet with businesses, government representatives, and the local community to assess the region’s progress three years after the catastrophic 2022 foods.

The foods, which impacted the Northern Rivers region and South-East Queensland in February and March 2022, remain the costliest insured event in Australian history, with insurers receiving more than 242,000 claims totaling $6.4 billion. Today, over 99% of claims have been closed, though insurers continue to receive new claims each month from the event.

As part of its collaborative approach, the ICA also met with representatives from all levels of government to discuss ongoing recovery efforts and explore potential community mitigation solutions to protect Lismore against future natural disasters.

ICA CEO Andrew Hall on Lismore’s Recovery:

“Having been in Lismore in the days after the foodwaters receded and many times since, you can’t help being struck by the way in which the community has got back on its feet and is taking signifcant steps to better protect people from future events.

During the visit, ICA CEO Andrew Hall met with local businesses and participated in a roundtable discussion alongside Business NSW and the NSW Reconstruction Authority. The discussions focused on mitigation measures that have been implemented to improve resilience against future extreme weather events, including raising or relocating homes in high-risk locations and rebuilding businesses with stronger food protections.

“Through the

roundtable and personal engagement with those affected by the 2022 foods, it is clear that Lismore is trying new and innovative ways to improve community resilience. Many homeowners and businesses have invested in their own mitigation measures to reduce future food risks.

“However, Lismore remains one of the most food-exposed communities in the country, and much more investment in hard infrastructure is required to protect this unique city.

“This region is among the most densely populated areas on the east coast and is frequently affected by Australia’s most expensive extreme weather events. We need urgent action to protect Australian communities in nature’s fring line by investing in resilienceenhancing infrastructure, strengthening building codes, and reforming land-use planning.

These require signifcant government investment and collaboration.”

Addressing Insurance Challenges in the Northern Rivers

NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn MP, acknowledged the major insurance challenges facing the Northern Rivers, particularly in terms of access and affordability.

“On behalf of our community, and with the support of the NSW Reconstruction Authority, the Community Leaders Forum submitted the most comprehensive proposal on insurance access and affordability to the Federal Parliamentary Inquiry into insurance-related matters.

“The inquiry report recommended that the government consider our submission, and I am driving this forward as one of our key 2025 projects, alongside the

Regional Masterplan and the CSIRO Northern Rivers Resilience Initiative (NRRI), which will provide further mitigation options. These projects are interlinked.”

Business NSW Calls for Government Action on Insurance Costs

Business NSW Regional Director, Jane Laverty, emphasized the critical role of insurance in business operations and risk management. However, she highlighted that affordability and access have been severely impacted by disaster events, particularly the 2022 foods.

“We have been working closely with the Insurance Council of Australia and CEO Andrew Hall since the 2022 foods to navigate insurance challenges and explore alternative insurance solutions. We are also advocating for mitigation investments that could lower insurance premiums and improve accessibility.

“The consequences

of inaction are clear— uninsurable businesses lead to closures, job losses, and a weakened economy. We urge governments and industry stakeholders to collaborate, act decisively, and ensure a sustainable future for our business community.”

A Call for Action on Resilience and Infrastructure

As Lismore continues to rebuild, local businesses, community leaders, and government representatives are calling for urgent investment in infrastructure and policy reforms to better protect the region from future disasters.

The ICA and local stakeholders remain committed to working together to ensure Lismore and the Northern Rivers are more resilient, prepared, and protected for years to come.

JEFF GIBBS

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Yamba residents speak out against food plain DA

TIM HOWARD

Yamba residents opposed to a multi-million dollar residential development on the West Yamba food plain turned out in force to vent their feelings on Friday.

The developers of a 284-lot subdivision proposed for Miles St, Yamba, turned to the NSW Land and Environment Court to appeal a decision of the Northern Regional Planning Panel to reject the DA last year.

The LEC website describes a conciliation hearing as: “a process in which the parties to a dispute, with the assistance of an impartial conciliator, identify the issues in dispute, develop options, consider alternatives and endeavour to reach agreement. The conciliator may have an advisory role on the content of the dispute or the outcome of its resolution but not a determinative role. The conciliator may advise on or determine the process of conciliation

whereby resolution is attempted, and may make suggestions for terms of settlement, give expert advice on likely terms, and may actively encourage the parties to reach agreement.”

The court scheduled a conciliation hearing to be held on site last Friday and limited the number of speakers from the community to six.

A large group of residents gathered for the hearing, which was also attended by the developer, Neil Garrard, council staff and court

offcials.

The speakers were Yamba Community Action Network and Valley Watch representative Bob Cairns, a resident from Golding St, Jeremy Cayford, Grevillia Waters residents representative David Robertson, Yamba resident Craigh McNeill, nearby resident Ryan Scanlon and another resident Helen Hajduk.

Most of the speakers used their experiences during the February/ March 2022 food event in the region to provide

Winning Investment Solution

evidence why the NRPP decision should stand.

Mr Cairns, who has worked in food mitigation for Clarence Valley Council and was a senior project manager for spoke frst.

He said the food events in the area, which inundated homes and cut off residents for at least seven days, revealed the shortcomings of this proposed development.

Of most concern to him was the lack of adequate food risk management, including evacuation plans, for the area.

He was also concerned that development on the foodplain was contributing to the issues revealed in the 2022 food.

“The fow paths for the storm events appear to have been severely restricted by the previously flled areas on the Yamba foodplain,” Mr Cairns said.

“I am aware there is not a Master Plan or a Stormwater Plan for the WYURA to refect internal drainage needs, Clarence River fooding, fooding from the Lake Wooloweyah catchment or fooding from Yamba Road shopping centre areas.”

A member of Valley Watch who attended the hearing, Helen Tyas Tungal, said the speakers gave clear speeches about the issues involved.

“It was interesting that the developers were there, but didn’t ask questions or speak,” she said.

She said after the public hearing the court, council staff and the developer held a closed meeting at another location on the side of the development.

Clarence Valley Council staff recommended against approval of the DA and have engaged solicitors Marsdens Law

Group to defend the refusal.

Ms Tyas Tungal said that meeting was closed to members of the public.

At the NRPP meeting in June the panel voted 3-1 to reject the DA. It gave four reasons for refusal

1. The proposed development relies upon signifcant additional flling of the subject site. There is some discrepancy between the assessment report and the submitted application documents in relation to the intended minimum fnished surface levels. Insuffcient information was evident as to the quantity of additional (not yet approved) fll material, an approved source for this and the required method of transport to the site. Accordingly, the Panel could not be satisfed as to the environmental and amenity impacts of this required flling activity as part of the project, having regard to the provisions of cls. 5.21(2)(e) and 7.2 of the Clarence Valley LEP 2011 and s.4.15(1) (b) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

2. The site is in a high-risk food catchment, where food planning is in transition. The proposed residential subdivision would necessitate evacuation in major food events and is not intended to provide a food refuge for residents who may otherwise be isolated for signifcant periods of time. Some of these are likely to be vulnerable persons. Mindful of the need to apply a precautionary, risk-based approach to the determination of development applications in food-affected locations, the Panel did not have evidence that there would be adequate capacity or facilities for additional evacuees in safe evacuation centres. Nor did the SES email response to the proposal provided to the Panel address this issue or its capacity to support an evacuation of this subdivision, only noting that the warning triggers for evacuation in the applicants’ Flood Evacuation Plan were consistent with those in the local Flood Emergency sub-Plan. Accordingly, the Panel was not suffciently

satisfed in relation to safe evacuation measures for the purposes of cls. 5.21 of the Clarence Valley LEP 2011 and having regard to s.4.15(1) (b), (c) and (e) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

3. Having regard to s.4.15(1)(d)of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the Panel has also noted the level of community concern and anxiety about fooding issues and associated insurance costs, the complexities of riverine and stormwater food impacts, as well as problems experienced with food warning, evacuation and potential resident isolation in Yamba.

4. ThePanel was not satisfed that an adequate Acid Sulphate Soils Management Plan for the development had been supplied to the Council, as required under cls. 7.1(3) of the Clarence Valley LEP 2011, noting that Council had required such a Plan to be submitted as a condition of any consent. The DA has been in the pipeline for a number of years and undergone a number of changes.

The original application lodged by Garrard Building Pty Ltd on behalf of Kahuna No.1 Pty Ltd for the proposal was submitted to council in August 2019 for 295 lots, but following discussions it was amended in June 2021 to a 310-lot subdivision.

Then the 310-lot subdivision DA was withdrawn by the applicant in September 2022, before it was set to be determined by the NRPP, and a revised DA SUB2023/0001 for the 284-lot subdivision was resubmitted in December 2022. The proposal was for a 284-lot subdivision comprising 277 low density residential lots, 1 medium density residential development lot, 1 commercial development lot, 1 low density development lot, 3 drainage reserve lots, and 1 open space reserve lot at 52 – 54 Miles Street, Yamba, off Carrs Drive.

When the DA was placed on public exhibition, council received 330 submissions about the proposal, with just three in support.

A crowd of Yamba residents gather near the site of the controversial Miles St DA in West Yamba to listen to residents speak at a NSW Land and Environment Court conciliation hearing on Friday.

TIM HOWARD

The test swim for the new Grafton Regional Aquatic Centre over the weekend attracted around 1000 swimmers to test the waters.

The pool owners, Clarence Valley Council, were pleased with the response, which included the frst family to hold a birthday party at the pool.

A council spokesperson said the feedback on social media has been largely positive and indicated people like the new facilities.

Only one pool of the complex, the 50m outdoor pool, had been opened to the public while the work continues to prepare the complex for an offcial opening next month.

The pool should be even busier this week with booking for school swimming carnivals coming in.

The pool has been open to the public since Saturday and has resumed its 6am start to allow lap swimmers to

1000 try waters at new pool

As

arrive for their earlymorning dip.

The canteen and amenities also began operations at the weekend and would be available for pool users from now on.

Council’s general manager Laura Black praised the work of the contractors and staff to get the centre open.

“You can’t wipe the

smiles from our faces at the moment, we are thrilled to be opening the doors so everyone can enjoy the 50-metre pool,” she said.

“A tremendous amount of effort has gone into the redevelopment of the centre.

“From the initial design phase to securing funding and moving through the

tender process, the progress made by Hines Construction and our local contractors has been incredible to watch.”

Clarence Valley Mayor, Ray Smith shared the general manager’s excitement,

“It’s fantastic that we’ve fnished the 50-metre pool ahead of the summer’s end

and just in time for the local school swimming carnivals,” Cr Smith said.

“The 50-metre pool is a major asset for our region, providing opportunities for ftness, recreation, and competitive swimming. I can’t think of another facility nearby that would best this one.”

Adding to the

excitement, the centre proudly features stunning artwork by local artist Al Stark.

His unique panels have been installed along the 50m pool grandstand and will be a striking visual element to elevate the centre’s ambience.

While the 50-metre pool is the frst area in the whole complex to open, Hines Construction and contractors are working hard to complete the remaining indoor facilities, including the program and leisure pool, splash pad, and additional amenities.

Updates on the progress and anticipated opening dates for these areas will be shared with the community soon.

The Clarence Regional Aquatic Centre project is jointly funded by State and Federal Governments in conjunction with Clarence Valley Council. A formal opening and fun day to recognise all contributors is being organised for Saturday, March 22.

Around 1000 Clarence Valley locals took the opportunity at the weekend to test the water at the Clarence Regional Aquatic Centre. The pool is part of a $30 million project on the site of the old Grafton Olympic Pool, which has been closed since September 2022.

well as the human pool users the local ducks took the opportunity on the weekend to check out the new pool facilities in Grafton.

Diary of a Flood Survivor

When we had the pool taken away, an empty space, covered in sand and surrounded by river rocks, became the main focus of our backyard.

I didn’t realise how much space the pool had actually taken up.

We mulled over the idea of getting another pool, but as with most decisions, we had to take into account the possibility of another food also destroying whatever replacement we made.

And besides, our lives and lifestyle had changed somewhat, now the kids are grown up and no longer as interested in having pool parties, it seemed the best replacement was an infatable spa, which was our combined Christmas present.

The spa has made its home under the deck and, should we have to face another possibility of a food, it can be defated and moved

within the timeframe we usually have with an impending inundation.

This still left a yawning gap in our backyard.

What could we do with it?

Mark’s aunt is currently getting rid of some old, raised garden beds and we have offered to take them off her hands.

The frst one has been set up and as my dad described it, currently

looks like a ‘pimple on a pumpkin’.

So, hopefully, over the next few months, we will have our own thriving, Costaattracting garden village where we once played copious amounts of ‘piggy in the middle’ and did laps. If my green thumb comes to the fore, I may be advertising excess amounts of food for distribution.

Little steps

Have Your Say on the Future of the Kyogle Local Government Area

JEFF GIBBS

From today, residents, businesses, and community groups across the Kyogle Local Government Area (LGA) are invited to share their priorities and aspirations as part of Kyogle Council’s review of its Community Strategic Plan (CSP).

The CSP is Kyogle Council’s highest-level strategic document, guiding the region’s Delivery Program, Operational Plan, and Long-Term Financial Plan. The current plan was developed in 2022, based on community input at the time. However, with a new Council elected in September 2024, it is now time for a review to ensure the CSP refects the evolving needs and priorities of the community.

A Commitment to Community Engagement Kyogle Council Mayor, Cr Danielle Mullholland, emphasized the

importance of engaging with local residents to shape the region’s future.

“One of the things my fellow councillors and I are extremely passionate about is opening up the lines of communication between Council and the community,” Cr Mullholland said.

“Our residents, businesses, young people, volunteers, and community organisations are at the heart of what makes the Kyogle LGA so special.

“Listening to their diverse voices is vital to getting the CSP right, but more than that, this consultation is about building relationships and networks that will help us collectively achieve the plan’s goals.”

How to Have Your Say

• Kyogle Council is providing multiple ways for the community to get involved:

• Community Survey – Available online until Sunday, 16 March 2025. Paper copies are also available at Council’s administration centre.

• Consultation with Schools & Young People – Engaging local youth to understand their perspectives and ideas.

• Face-to-Face Community Sessions – Meetings will be held across the LGA, including Kyogle, Woodenbong, Bonalbo, and Tabulam.

• Drop-in Information & Feedback Hub – Visit the Kyogle Memorial Institute Hall on Thursday, 6 March 2025 to learn more and share your thoughts in person. More Information & Contact Details

To learn more and participate in shaping the future of the Kyogle LGA, visit: Kyogle Council’s project webpage

For further inquiries, contact Kyogle Council: Email: council@kyogle. nsw.gov.au Phone: 6632 1611

In Person: Council Administration Centre Join the conversation and help shape the future of Kyogle’s towns, villages, and communities!

Tweed Heads Man Revs Up Excitement with $50,000 Keno Win

A Tweed Heads man is ready for high-speed adventures after winning $50,000 in a Keno Classic draw. The lucky winner hit the jackpot in draw 968 on Thursday, 13 February 2025, with his winning ticket purchased at Ivory Waterside, 156 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads.

The New South Wales resident said he discovered the exciting news during a night out with a friend.

“It was quite the surprise,” the winner shared. “We put on a few games and completely

forgot about them. We weren’t watching the screen, so it was only when I checked my ticket that I found out about the win.”

Overjoyed with the unexpected windfall, the pair stayed out to celebrate. The winner already has plans for his prize:

“I’ll probably buy a new motorbike and put some towards the house. I’ve only played Keno about fve times, so it was pretty amazing to win like this.”

The man revealed he used a selection of special numbers and couldn’t be more grateful for his good fortune.

“Thanks so much!” Keno Players Enjoy Big Wins Across Australia

In FY24, Keno players across Queensland, New South Wales, the ACT, and Victoria celebrated more than 78.5 million wins, collectively worth over $1.16 billion. Among the major winners were 18 millionaires and multimillionaires, including a Shelly Beach dad who took home a $5.92 million windfall. Eight major winners were from New South Wales and the ACT, with total winnings of $588.5 million across the region.

JEFF GIBBS

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Resilient Lismore hosts ‘Stronger Together – A Community Gathering in the Quad’

RESILIENT LISMORE

Resilient Lismore is hosting a community gathering on Saturday the 1st March from 3.30pm to 7pm and are inviting the whole community to spend a few hours listening to good music, letting the kids play, and enjoying some food together.

“It’s going to be a lovely, gentle afternoon and it will be a space for people to connect with others in the community and just to spend some time together, three years on from the foods of 2022. We are stronger when we build community connections and when we work together, and community events are one way we can do this.” said Elly Bird, Executive Director of Resilient Lismore.

“The Quad has just reopened; the library is open again and the Conservatorium is undergoing its own amazing restorationwith all three buildings

back in action we are really looking forward to holding this special event in the heart of our city.

“It’s been three years since the foods and landslides that changed our community, and we know for some folks it’s helpful to spend time with others as we move past that milestone. “It won’t be for everyone and that’s ok, what’s

most important is that people look after themselves in whatever way works for them as we move through another milestone on our community recovery journey.”

“It’s going to be low key but fun. Bring your picnic blanket or your camp chairs, and grab some takeaway from nearby businesses, or

from the food vans at the event.

“The afternoon will kick off at 3.30pm with a Welcome to Country. There will be a performance by the All in a Chord Choir led by Imogen Wolf, soulful harmonies by Tapestry Road and grooves by the very popular Lismore Supper Club Soul Band.

‘The Chalkies’, with

Claudie Frock, will colour the Quad paths with the public and people can decorate a fag which will be joined together with all of the other fags to make a community bunting.”

Food vans from Lismore City Lions and The Salvation Army will offer low-cost meals, and there will be free fruit available for families

thanks to Social Futures.

“We are very grateful for the support of our major sponsors Southern Cross University and NORCO who are helping us to deliver the event, and we are also grateful for sponsorship from Social Futures, and from Cleanaway. Our sponsors are really helping us to make this event happen and it’s just another way they each continue to support the community more broadly.” said Ms. Bird.

“If it does feel right for you to come and spend some time with others on March the 1st, we would love to see you there. For any enquiries, please contact Emma on events@ resilientlismore.org. au or 0411 967 690. To RSVP to the event, please go to the QR code below.

Tweed Valley Hospital to Gain Additional Car Parking Spaces

JEFF GIBBS

Patients, staff, and visitors at Tweed Valley Hospital will soon beneft from 130 additional free car parking spaces, enhancing access and convenience at the state-of-the-art hospital. This upgrade will boost total parking capacity to over 1,300 spaces across the hospital campus.

The $723.3 million Tweed Valley Hospital, which opened in May 2024, has transformed healthcare delivery in the region. It offers new and expanded services for around 5,000 patients annually, including interventional cardiology and radiotherapy, which

means locals can now access life-saving treatments close to home rather than traveling outside the region.

Operational Review Leads to Enhancements

The decision to add parking and improve traffc management followed an operational review of the hospital’s transport and traffc arrangements. The upgrades aim to maximize the available space and improve the effciency of existing car parking areas. Key improvements will include:

• 130 new street-level car parking spaces

• New signage and line marking

• Enhanced parking management systems

Work will begin in the coming months and will be carried out in stages to minimize disruption to patients, staff, and visitors. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

Community and Staff Welcomed the Upgrades

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said the project refects the government’s commitment to improving access to healthcare for local residents:

“We’ve listened to valuable feedback from Tweed Valley Hospital staff and the community. I’m delighted to announce we will deliver additional car parking to further

enhance access to the hospital and vital health services for the local community.”

Labor Spokesperson for Tweed, Emily Suvaal MLC, emphasized how the additional parking would boost convenience and capacity:

“The additional car parking and enhancements to traffc arrangements will provide more options for patients, staff, and visitors. In the nine months since opening, the hospital has already welcomed 787 babies in its new birthing suites. This project ensures the hospital will continue to meet the growing health needs of our region.”

Commitment to Free Parking

Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot reiterated the importance of free parking at the facility:

“NSW Labor made a rock-solid commitment that parking would be free for staff, visitors, and patients. Thanks to all in our community who fought so hard for this, and for the additional free car parking spaces. Labor listens and Labor acts.”

Northern NSW Local Health District Chief Executive Tracey Maisey added that the upgrades will greatly improve the hospital experience for everyone:

“Additional parking will make a real difference to our patients, visitors, and especially our staff.

These practical steps will help ensure we continue to deliver frst-class healthcare to our community.”

Project Timeline and Community Updates

The project is being funded as part of the Tweed Valley Hospital Redevelopment, in partnership with Northern NSW Local Health District and Health Infrastructure. Staff and the community will receive regular updates as work progresses to ensure they are informed about the enhancements.

For more information about the Tweed Valley Hospital and parking updates, visit the Northern NSW Local Health District website.

Lismore’s Oakes Oval Wins Prestigious State Footy Stadium Award, Eyes National Recognition

Lismore’s Oakes

Oval has taken out the NSW Ken Gannon Community Football Facility Award, putting the premier sporting venue in contention for the national title. This accolade celebrates the best community football facilities across Australia and is a testament to Lismore City Council’s commitment to delivering top-tier sporting infrastructure.

Following a $12.4 million upgrade, Oakes Oval is now a leading contender for the national prize, having frmly established itself as the premier AFL venue in regional NSW.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg expressed pride in the community asset, emphasizing its role in Lismore’s identity.

“Local sports fans can now enjoy the best of the best playing right here in our hometown stadium,”

Mayor Krieg said. “The award-winning upgrades position Oakes Oval as a prime destination for high-profle games and events, further cementing Lismore’s reputation as a regional sporting hub.”

World-Class Upgrades

The stadium’s transformation included a complete overhaul of the grandstand, featuring new seating,

modern media and coaches’ boxes, and an extensive refurbishment of the Gordon Pavilion, which now boasts a function room, bar, and kitchen. The change rooms, amenities, and storage areas were also modernized, ensuring a frst-rate experience for players and spectators.

Since its redevelopment, Oakes Oval has hosted AFL

pre-season matches, local Australian Rules Football, Rugby League, and cricket games, as well as community events such as Carols in the Heart.

AFL Venue and Government Partnerships Manager for NSW, Samuel Thomson, noted that the award paves the way for exciting new opportunities.

“Now one of the

premier AFL venues in all of NSW, we look forward to Oakes Oval becoming the centrepiece for the continued growth of our game across Northern NSW,” Mr Thomson said.

Tony Duffy, Lismore City Council’s Manager for Liveable & Active Communities, highlighted the design and planning excellence behind the

redevelopment.

“This is not just a regional facility; it’s a multipurpose stadium for Lismore and Northern NSW,” Mr Duffy said. “We’re eager to see more local and elite-level content in the coming years.”

A Collaborative Effort

The refurbishment, delayed by the 2022 foods, was a joint effort across all levels of government. The project was funded by contributions from the Australian Government ($6 million), the NSW Government ($4.9 million), and Lismore City Council ($1.5 million).

With national recognition now in sight, Oakes Oval stands as a shining example of what’s possible when community, sport, and smart investment come together. Lismore’s future as a premier sporting destination has never looked brighter.

JEFF GIBBS

Creating Change: Have Your Say at Tweed’s Climate Action Café

JEFF GIBBS

Register now for Tweed’s biggest community-led climate event!

Tweed Shire Council is inviting residents to take an active role in shaping the region’s future by attending two Climate Action Cafés next week. These interactive workshops aim to inspire residents to support communityled climate initiatives, offering a platform for collaboration and innovation.

The Climate Action Cafés will take place at:

• Murwillumbah Services Club on Wednesday, 19 February (5–8:30 pm)

• Cabarita Beach Bowls and Sports Club on Saturday, 22 February (12 noon–3:30 pm)

RSVPs are essential, and light refreshments will be provided at both events.

An Invitation to Make a Difference

The Cafés will provide a casual and engaging space where residents can share ideas, brainstorm solutions, and prioritise local projects to tackle climate challenges. Projects most supported by attendees will be further developed and supported by the newly formed Community Climate Action Group.

Debbie Firestone, Council’s Climate Change and Sustainability Program Leader, encouraged residents to come along and participate in the conversation.

discussion and help us determine what’s most important to the community,” Ms Firestone said.

“The Tweed is one of the most climatevulnerable regions in NSW, and many of us have experienced the impact of extreme weather events on our homes, businesses, and wellbeing. But we also know how resilient and resourceful this community is.

“If you have a project idea that can make a difference—or if you’re simply passionate about being part of a positive change—come along and help shape the future of climate action in the Tweed.”

• Biodiversity, coasts, and waterways

• Energy, water, and buildings

• Food systems and agriculture

• Waste and circular economy

• Education and climate conversations

implementation.

Join the Movement

February | 5–8:30 pm

Climate Action Café #2

– Cabarita Beach Bowls and Sports Club

• Saturday, 22 February | 12 noon–3:30 pm

To register, visit www. humanitix.com

“These events are informal, fun workshops designed to promote

Key Topics for Exploration Attendees will focus on several core topics, including:

These discussions will help develop a Community Climate Action Plan, with mentors and support from the Community Climate Action Group, who will be on hand to guide projects through to

Tweed residents have already shown remarkable leadership in rooftop solar adoption, electric vehicle use, and wildlife conservation efforts. Now’s the time to take that passion a step further and work together to build a sustainable, climateresilient future.

Event Details: Climate Action Café #1 – Murwillumbah Services Club

• Wednesday, 19

For more information, contact Debbie Firestone on (02) 6670 2400 or email tsc@tweed.nsw. gov.au.

Come and be part of the solution. Your ideas can help create lasting change!

TRADIES WANTED

Williamson Slams Minns Government For Failing To Act On Youth Crime In Richmond And Clarence Valleys

RICHIE WILLIAMSON

State Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has condemned the Minns Labor Government for failing to address rising youth crime in the Richmond and Clarence Valleys, following its $4 million funding boost to tackle youth crime in Bourke and Kempsey— while ignoring other high-need areas.

Mr Williamson said while the funding for Bourke and Kempsey is welcome, it does nothing to assist victims of youth

crime in his electorate.

“Youth crime is spiralling out of control, and the Minns Government continues to sit on its hands,” Mr Williamson said.

“Every day, I hear from families, small businesses, and community members who are suffering because of escalating crime.

“The people of the Richmond and Clarence Valleys deserve real solutions—not selective handouts that leave communities behind.

We need urgent legislative reform and real investment in crime

prevention because right now, this government is failing us.”

A long-time advocate for crime reduction strategies, Mr Williamson is calling for stronger bail laws, increased police resources, and targeted intervention programs to address the root causes of youth crime.

“Chris Minns and his Government cannot continue to ignore the crisis in the Richmond and Clarence Valleys. We need action now—our communities deserve better than failed policies and empty promises.”

Picture Right: Council's Program Leader - Climate Change and Sustainability Debbie Firestone is ready to welcome Tweed residents to a Climate Action Cafe.

Samantha’s Book

From Trash to Treasure: Casino Couple Almost Bin $95,000 Winning Keno Ticket

JEFF GIBBS

Overcoming insurmountable odds

Title: Conviction: How I Overcame My Traumatic Past and Found My Purpose

Author: Norliza Pavlakos

Price: $29.64

Distributor: Amazon

By Samantha Elley

It was as simple as going to meet some friends for drinks.

A car pulls up and the guy inside has pulled over to tell Norliza how stunning she looks and that he is a scout looking for models.

He offers her a business card, which looks legit, and as she sits on the edge of the passenger seat of his car to write her phone number, he takes off, with her falling into the car.

The next few hours, Norliza experiences hell. When she fnally escapes, her life is never the same and worse is yet to come.

She has already experienced child abuse and eventually fnds herself in an abusive marriage and even experiences homelessness.

A Casino couple has been revealed as the region’s latest Keno winners, almost throwing away a $95,000 jackpot ticket before realizing their life-changing fortune.

The lucky couple, who purchased the Keno Mega Millions 8 Spot ticket at Casino RSM Club, confessed they had no idea they’d won the $95,026.60 prize in draw 302 on Monday, 10 February 2025.

Incredibly, it was the wife’s frst time playing Keno and the husband’s frst time in years.

“We Almost Threw It Out!”

Speaking about the surreal experience, the winning husband shared how close they came to losing their prize.

“We didn’t even know at frst! My wife and

I went for lunch on Monday and played a few games but left before checking our ticket,” he said.

“A few days later, we saw a post saying the club was looking for their 8 Spot winner from Monday.

“Lucky we still had the ticket! I was surprised to see it still sitting on the bench and not in the bin.”

The husband admitted their decision to play was spontaneous.

“Funnily enough, I hadn’t played in years, and my wife had never played, but we said,

‘bugger it, let’s give it a go.’ It’s still surreal.”

The couple plans to use their winnings to pay off their house and buy a caravan for future holidays.

Record Wins for Keno Players in 2024

The Casino couple’s win adds to a long list of Keno success stories across the eastern states.

In FY24, Keno players celebrated more than 78.5 million wins worth over $1.16 billion.

During this period, 18 new millionaires and multi-millionaires were crowned, collectively taking home over $46.7

Understandably, Norliza’s life spirals into a pattern of depression, addiction and despair. Her life isn’t over, however, and Conviction is a testimony of the resilience and strength Norliza found in her faith, her own spirit and the support of others to fnd a way out of the tunnel she was in.

The road she has travelled wasn’t easy and there were many setbacks, but she has come from being victimised to a successful entrepreneur and award-winning keynote speaker, sharing her inspiring personal growth stories.

Conviction is a book of hope for those who feel there is none.

According to Norliza, a broken life can be healed, restored and renewed.

Norliza is the founder of My Mind Hub, a global mental health platform, and the Liza Pavlakos Foundation, a philanthropic initiative dedicated to supporting those in need.

She is also a keynote speaker across the globe.

You can get your copy of Conviction from www.amazon.com.au or Norliza’s website at norliza.com

million. Among them was a Shelly Beach dad who walked away with $5.92 million.

In NSW and the ACT, players racked up more than 40.3 million wins, totaling over $588.5 million.

Play Smart and Check Your Tickets

This heartwarming story is a reminder for Keno players to always check their tickets. You never know when a spontaneous decision could turn into a lifechanging moment—just ask this Casino couple, whose quick game turned into a $95,000 stroke of luck.

The winning ticket was purchased at Casino RSM Club, 162 Canterbury Road, Casino.

For more information on Keno results and prizes, visit your local Keno outlet or check online

Teacher Resignations Drop for the First Time in 13 Years in NSW

JEFF GIBBS

Minns Labor Government’s Pay Rise and Workplace Reforms Credited for the Positive Trend

For the frst time in 13 years, the number of teachers resigning from NSW public schools has dropped signifcantly, marking a turning point in the state’s education sector. Teacher resignations fell to their lowest level since 2021, as the Minns Labor Government’s historic pay rise and improved working conditions have brought renewed hope to the profession.

The fall in resignations coincides with a continued drop in teacher retirements, which have also reached their lowest rate in more than two decades. These fgures stand in stark contrast to the LiberalNational Government’s tenure, during which resignations steadily increased, driven by wage caps and rising non-classroom workloads that led to a

teacher shortage crisis. By the Numbers: A Positive Shift

In 2024, teacher resignations and retirements fell across multiple key categories:

• Total teacher resignations dropped from 2,050 in 2023 to 1,779, the lowest since 2021.

• Resignations for frst-year teachers fell from 4.7% in 2023 to 3.5%, also the lowest since 2021.

• Resignations for teachers in their frst fve years dropped from 4.6% in 2023 to 3.9%, signaling growing stability.

• Teacher retirements dropped to 1,014, representing a 43% decline over the past decade.

• Retirements as a percentage of the workforce fell to 1.8%, the lowest rate since 2002.

A Decline in Teacher Vacancies

The start of the 2025 school year also saw a dramatic improvement in staffng levels, with a 40% reduction in

teacher vacancies since the election of the Minns Government.

The combination of competitive salaries and improved job security has played a signifcant role in retaining experienced teachers and attracting new talent.

Driving the Turnaround

Key reforms introduced by the Minns Labor Government include:

• The largest pay rise for NSW’s 95,000 teachers since the 1990s.

• Permanent contracts for over 16,000 teachers and support staff, improving job stability.

• Expansion of the Priority Recruitment Support model from 79 to 110 schools to fll positions in hard-to-staff areas.

• Re-engaging recently retired and resigned teachers, bringing experienced educators back into classrooms.

• Administrative task reductions and simplifed mandatory training, giving teachers more time to focus on teaching.

• A mobile phone ban in

all public schools, aimed at reducing distractions and improving student focus.

A Bright Future for Education

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said these improvements are an important step toward restoring respect and stability in teaching.

“We made a commitment to restore the reputation of teaching in NSW, and that’s precisely what we’ve done,” Ms. Car said.

“We’ve brought teacher salaries up and teacher vacancies down. The sharp drop in resignations speaks volumes about the positive impact felt in classrooms across the state.”

“While there’s still work to do, these improvements mean one thing—better learning outcomes for our students. That’s at the heart of everything we do.”

Tweed Seniors Festival 2025: Time to Shine!

Tweed’s older residents are ready to take centre stage as the 2025 Tweed Seniors Festival kicks off from 3–16 March with a packed program of more than 40 events, celebrating the vibrant contributions of seniors across the region.

This year’s festival, themed ‘Time to Shine!’, offers a mix of creative workshops, cultural experiences, social events, and physical activities designed to promote wellbeing, community connections, and lifelong learning.

A Community Celebration

Naomi Searle, Tweed Shire Council’s Director of Sustainable Communities & Environment, highlighted the festival’s importance to the region.

“With twice the state average of people over 60, the Tweed is home to an incredible community of older residents

who make invaluable contributions every day,”

Ms. Searle said.

“The Tweed Seniors Festival is a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate these contributions, while also providing a space for connection, learning, and wellbeing.”

Festival Launch and Local Achievement Awards

The festival will begin with a grand opening ceremony on Monday, 3 March at the Tweed Heads Civic & Cultural Centre Auditorium. The event will include the highly anticipated Local Achievement Awards, celebrating seniors who have gone above and beyond to make the Tweed a diverse, active, and inspiring place to live.

Chris Watts, Manager of Tweed Meals on Wheels, will serve as MC for the event, with entertainment provided by Danceland Tweed Heads professional dancers and Fiddle

Faddle, a traditional old-time music band.

Community Connection and Recognition

Phil Eizenberg, the 2025 Tweed Senior Ambassador and Fiddle Faddle band member,

called the festival a fantastic opportunity for seniors to explore new experiences and connect with others.

“Seniors are at the heart of our community,”

Mr. Eizenberg said.

“I’m proud to be part

and ftness classes to live performances and social gatherings, there’s something for everyone.

The Tweed Seniors Festival is part of the larger NSW Seniors Festival, the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest event dedicated to celebrating older people. Get Involved

of this year’s festival celebrating their contributions. It’s a great chance to try something new, stay active, and meet others.”

Guests at the opening ceremony will also enjoy a complimentary morning tea, prepared

by the Tweed Hospital Auxiliary, and have the opportunity to learn about local services and community programs available for older residents.

Festival Highlights

With events ranging from art workshops

For the full Tweed Seniors Festival program, visit the Tweed Shire Council website at tweed.nsw.gov.au/ seniors-festival.

Free tickets for the opening ceremony can be booked at Humanitix. Bookings are essential. Come along, celebrate Tweed’s incredible seniors, and enjoy the fun and festivities!

UNICEF Australia Selects Northern Rivers Local as New Young Ambassador

JEFF GIBBS

UNICEF Australia has announced Northern Rivers local Sian McCowan as a Young Ambassador to represent Queensland in an 18-month leadership and advocacy program for aspiring young changemakers.

Sian, 22, is one of 11 new UNICEF Australia Young Ambassadors, aged 16-23, selected from 350 applicants nationwide. Currently studying at university in Brisbane, she will

join the program to amplify the voices of young Australians and advocate for systemic change.

UNICEF Australia

CEO Tony Stuart emphasized the importance of youth voices in shaping policies and programs that impact children.

“From all corners of the country and each with unique life experiences, we want to know what is important to Australia’s young people and how we can address the issues that impact them. That

is why our Young Ambassador program is central to our mission,” Mr. Stuart said.

A Passion for Change

Sian McCowan, a proud Biripi and Dunghutti woman, is deeply committed to equality and justice.

“My passion for children’s rights is deeply intertwined with my personal and community experiences. Growing up with a mother in law enforcement, I witnessed frsthand the ongoing inequality First Nations Peoples face

in accessing health and mental health services, compounding their overrepresentation in the justice system— especially among youth.

“I am driven to advocate for systemic change that addresses historical injustices and ensures that all children, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive,” she said.

Developing Future Advocates

Over the next 18 months, the Young Ambassadors will receive leadership and

communication training, gaining frsthand experience in advocacy at the highest levels of government.

UNICEF Australia’s Child and Youth Engagement Manager, Zoe Grayan, highlighted the importance of the program in equipping young people with the tools to infuence change.

“Our UNICEF Australia team of experts is ready to guide these new Young Ambassadors as they explore their passion areas, grow their

knowledge, and learn the ins and outs of advocacy.

“The selection process is never easy, but these incredible young people showcased their determination and motivation to make a positive impact,” Ms. Grayan said.

The UNICEF Australia Young Ambassador Program is proudly supported by IKEA Australia, further strengthening its commitment to youth empowerment and advocacy.

JEFF GIBBS

Picture Left: Tweed Seniors Festival will run from 3 –16 March, offering a huge lineup of more than 40 events - including African Drumming workshops at the M|Arts Precinct Murwillumbah. (Pictured: On the drums are Tweed locals Helen, Mike, and Sue)

Phil Eizenberg, Tweed’s offcial Senior Ambassador of the year, will be performing at the festival’s open ceremony on Monday 3 March with the Fiddle Faddle band.

“

OF MAMMALS & LEARNING STUFF

‘Mum Jane’ & ME, ‘Leemo Cat’ are enjoying a ni y Sunday reading the papers. Mum was in a most amiable loving mood giving me pats & brushes in between reading & tea slurping & initiating convivial conversation. (Hmmm…this is a bit suss but I’ll go with the ow!) ‘Leems, let’s have a Question Game. We each are allowed ask one question..whaddya reckon?’ ‘Okeydokey Mum, I’ll go rst ‘cos I’m the oldest. Here I go! ‘Mum, am I a Mammal?’ ‘Whoohoo, what a ni y question Leems and YEP, you are a ‘SMALL MAMMAL’

e.g., Felis Catus, a small domestic carnivorous mammal, whereas your rellies like Lions, Tigers, Elephants,Whales & stu are known as the ‘GREAT MAMMALS. Why do you ask Leems?

‘Well, Mum, I read in the paper that a Whale brie y swallowed a bloke and his kayak o Chilean Patagonia, and obviously, not nding this treat to his liking, spat it out quick smart. SO MUM, this justi es some of MY behaviours doesn’t it? (She looked puzzled!) For instance Mum, sometimes, when you put new stu in my bowl & NOT my normal treats, I spit it out all over our rugs ‘cos I don’t like it; just like that Whale did (whales prefer KRILL by the way Mum) and no-one got cross with him. SO, Mum, WHEN I do a treat spit I’m simply applying my Felix Catus Mammal traits so a cessation of your spitty rug crossness carry-on would be ni y, Gottit?’ Hmmm! She looked abbergasted at my

anything”

words but surprisingly didn’t even seem put out?

‘OK Leems, fair enough, I’ll never put NEW treats in your bowl unless I check with you rst!’ Crikey, I wasn’t intending she go THAT far but I ‘spose if she runs it by me all will be in AOK!

‘Righto Leems my boy, it’s my turn to ask YOU a question. ‘HAVE YOU, per chance, been using my mobile phone to hide & call my sister Cay and tell her bbies about ME being mean to you?

I’m only asking this ‘cos she called me yesterday & hinted that I should adopt a more benevolent & tender-hearted approach to our ‘Mum & Son’ relationship? Even blind Freddy would see her comments could only have originated from the actions of a ‘Master Mammal of Mischief’ don’t you think? Could it perhaps be a Felis Catus called Leemo?’ (Eeeek.. OMG..Aunt Cay assured me she wouldn’t say a word when I told how di cult Mum is to live with) Eeeek! She WENT ON. AND, Leems, if you’d been fool enough to call my Sister PJ you would have gotten bloody short shri ! ‘Moving on: I have a list here of Felis Catususes eager to move in to our house. 2 of them even like picking up leaves!! Gottit? Before I interview them, how about we try continuing with our ‘Mum & Son’ relationship with maybe some changes? (OMG, the anticipatory HORROR!) ‘Leems, let’s just both of us realise that if we don’t make mistakes in life none of us will ever achieve anything ‘cos we won’t learn what NOT to do! So, amongst other things, how ‘bout you use the grass to do spitty things & I’ll desist from old lady crabbiness over trivialities like messy rugs, which are, in the scheme of life, trivialities.’ ‘Ooooh, what a ni y outcome we arrived at from chatting. Mum, I’ll make tea for you & then we can do my ‘Feathers on a Stick’ games on the grass, then my brush, then my treats!! (her eyes shot up??) Nitey with hugs & purrsies, Leemo.

Adam Gilchrist Pavilion Honours an Aussie Cricketing Legend

JEFF GIBBS

Lismore’s reputation as a premier regional sporting hub has reached new heights with the unveiling of the Adam Gilchrist Pavilion at the Lismore Regional Sporting Hub. Named in honour of Adam (Gilly) Gilchrist, one of Australia’s greatest cricketers, the pavilion is part of a $12.4 million upgrade to Oakes Oval and Crozier Field.

A Tribute to a Cricket Icon

Adam Gilchrist, renowned for his aggressive batting and wicketkeeping prowess, is deeply connected to Lismore, where he spent his formative years and attended school in Goonellabah. As a key member of three World Cup-winning teams (1999, 2003, 2007) and a Wisden Cricketer of the Year (2002), his contributions to Australian cricket are legendary. His induction into the International Cricket Council’s Hall of Fame cements his place in cricket history.

Refecting on the

honour, Gilchrist said: “It’s an incredible honour to have a pavilion named after you. Growing up in Lismore, I never imagined this day would come. I hope it serves as a reminder of the community that supported me and how much this place means to me.”

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg described the pavilion as a ftting tribute:

“Gilly brought joy and amazement to cricket fans across the world. It’s an absolute honour to have this high-quality facility named after one of Lismore’s most iconic sporting fgures.”

A Multi-Purpose Sporting Venue

The Adam Gilchrist Pavilion is a modern, multi-purpose venue designed to host sporting and community events. Key features include:

• Function room with internal seating for 100

• Commercial kitchen and bar

• Offce space and meeting rooms

• Viewing deck overlooking Oakes Oval and Crozier Field

• Modern amenities

including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, accessible toilets, and a lift

The fexible space can be divided into three separate areas, making it suitable for meetings, private functions, conferences, weddings, and corporate events.

A Major Investment in Regional Sport

The $12.4 million upgrade to the Lismore Regional Sporting Hub has transformed the facility, delivering:

• New change rooms

• Upgraded grandstands

• Enhanced spectator areas

• Cricket training nets built to national standards

• Additional amenities blocks

Funded through

contributions from the Australian Government ($6 million), NSW Government’s Regional Sport Infrastructure Fund ($4.5 million), Stronger Country Communities Fund ($400,000), and Lismore City Council ($1.5 million), the upgrades ensure that Lismore remains a top-tier destination for high-profle sporting events.

The Adam Gilchrist Pavilion is now available for hire, offering an ideal setting for community gatherings, corporate events, and social celebrations.

For bookings and more information, visit the Lismore City Council website at www.lismore.nsw.gov. au.

Transparency at the heart of strata reforms

Greater accountability and transparency are at the heart of new strata laws now in effect which require strata managers in NSW to be upfront with owners about kickbacks and conficts of interest.

The reforms give property owners better information and increase accountability for strata managers through improved transparency around their fnancial relationships and potential conficts of interest.

The expanded disclosure requirements mandate clear and timely information-sharing by strata managers.

Under the new laws, strata managers must:

• Disclose any

connections with suppliers and developers, including the nature of the relationships

• Provide detailed breakdowns of insurance quotes, including commissions and broker fees

• Report in real time if any new connections or interests arise during their appointment Additionally, strata managers must now provide enhanced annual reports to owners corporations which detail any supplier and developer connections.

NSW Fair Trading will be enforcing these new obligations, with strata managers required to understand and comply with the new requirements, including

auditing their previous disclosure practices to identify any gaps, and implement processes to ensure timely and accurate reporting under the new requirements.

Strata property owners are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the changes and discuss any concerns with their strata manager. Targeted compliance operations and education initiatives will embed recent reforms and improve consumer confdence in strata management.

Managers who fail to meet the new disclosure obligations may face penalties of up to $110,000.

These new rules form part of the second

tranche of reforms the Government has passed through the NSW Parliament to improve the strata industry.

A third tranche of reforms is currently being debated in the NSW Parliament and will increase accountability of developers to ensure initial strata levies are accurate so owners aren’t hit with higher fees once they move in, and will introduce fnancial hardship provisions for people struggling to pay their fees and protect owners from unfair contract terms. For more information, visit the NSW Fair Trading website.

Leemo has views on just about

To

be heroic…by

Nigel Dawe

“THE hero,” said German American philosopher Felix Adler, “is one who kindles a great light in the world, who sets up blazing torches in the dark streets of life for people to see by.” And more often than not, such people go on ‘lighting the way’ for the rest of us, long after they are gone.

Without exception, the defining essence of those we might consider to be heroes, are thus through behaviours that exemplify courage under pressure, albeit actions undertaken that seemingly defy every trace of self-interest and personal preservation. Doing things for, or because of, others (and usually against extraordinary odds) bestow an aura to acts of heroism that almost utterly transcend rational appreciation.

One person I greatly admire, and consider to be a hero in every sense of the word is Neale Daniher, the recently honoured 2025 Australian of the Year.

Having been diagnosed with MND in 2013, Neale set to work to raise funds for research into a cure for this terminal affliction. In the 12 years since, this force of nature of a man has raised $115 million, which won’t directly assist him, but it will help every future sufferer of this disease.

Some years ago, I read Daniher’s autobiography titled When All Is Said and Done; you can’t help realising why his nickname when he coached the Melbourne Demons was ‘The Reverend’, such is his optimistic and truly upbeat bent of personality. Traits that saw him take his team from last in 1997 to a Grand Final in the

Draft Hampton Park Reserve Master Plan Open for Public Feedback

year 2000. A miracle worker perhaps, but I’d argue more a driven advocate for singleminded principles and work ethics that lead to ultimate success. As he once made note, “Passion might ignite the flame, but purpose keeps it burning… Embrace life for what it is. Grasp the opportunities. Be at the high end of sceptical, but the low end of cynical.”

In an alternate field, another personal hero of mine is early American aviation pioneer Amiela Earhart. Being the first woman to fly nonstop and solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932, she was to lose her life five years later attempting to circumnavigate the globe. Neither wreckage of her plane nor her remains were ever found, it is believed that she crashed somewhere in the Pacific Ocean. Though, to this day her adventurous spirit and legacy lives on. In a very straight-forward and no-nonsense manner, Earhart once said, “It takes as much energy to wish as it does to plan… Believe and you’ll find the courage to soar. Even against the wind, never let your spirit falter.”

While some have heroism thrust upon them because of circumstances out of their control, others attain it through conscious choice, having committed to causes and disciplines that require their sustained efforts and application. Or as Bob Dylan once said, “A hero is someone who understands the responsibility that comes with their freedom,” not to mention a deep awareness of what needs to be done, and for whom.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Ballina Shire Council is inviting community members to provide feedback on the Draft Master Plan for Hampton Park Reserve, which is now on public exhibition.

The draft plan outlines a vision for the future of Hampton Park, aiming to balance open space, community green areas, and active recreation while building on existing infrastructure for tennis and other uses.

Early in 2024, Council conducted extensive community consultation to gather insights from key user groups about how the reserve is used and what improvements residents would like to see.

Community Feedback Highlights

Some of the key themes identifed during consultation include:

• Protecting the iconic fg trees and planting additional shade trees

• Addressing drainage and fooding concerns

• Improving car parking and footpath connections

• Preserving community green spaces for informal activities

• Supporting sporting groups’ aspirations to expand court capacity

Proposed Improvements

Following consultation, a Draft Master Planning Report was presented at the 28 November 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting, where it was resolved to prepare an amended draft for public exhibition.

The proposed design includes several signifcant changes:

• Formalised on-street car parking

• A new vehicle access point off Moon Street

• Closure of Burnet Street driveway access upon construction

The plan aims to balance the competing demands for space, ensuring a functional and attractive environment for general community use while meeting the needs of active sports and recreation groups.

Have Your Say

Council is seeking input from the community to help shape the fnal version of the Hampton Park Reserve Master Plan.

• Do you agree with the vision?

• Are the priorities

right?

Residents are invited to complete an online feedback form after reading the Draft Master Plan in full at yoursayballina.com.au/ Hampton-park-reservemaster-plan.

Submissions close Friday, 28 February 2025.

Future Planning and Implementation

While no funding has yet been allocated for the implementation of works, the fnalised Master Plan will serve as a key management framework for the reserve. It will also guide future investment and planning to ensure that community needs and aspirations are met. For more information, visit the Ballina Shire Council website.

Hampton Park Reserve Draft Master Plan - Key Features (EXTRACT ONLY)

Byron Shire Council Adds New EV Chargers in Mullumbimby and Byron Bay

Byron Shire Council has installed four new Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers in carparks at Mullumbimby and Byron Bay, supported by $18,000 in funding from the NSW Government’s EV Destination Charging Grants program.

The carpark adjoining the Council’s Mullumbimby offces and library now features

two new 22kW AC chargers, bringing the total number of charging stations at the site to four. The Mullumbimby chargers are powered by a 99kW solar array, ensuring a greener energy source for EV users.

In Byron Bay, two new 7kW charging units have been installed at the Lawson Street North carpark, behind the Byron Bay Pool. This

complements the existing EV charging station at the Byron Library carpark, which serves two parking spaces.

Boosting Local EV Infrastructure Council’s Sustainability Offcer, Rachel Thatcher, said the new charging stations are part of the Council’s ongoing efforts to reduce transport emissions and support the transition to electric vehicles.

“We see the shift to electric vehicles as playing an important role in reducing transport emissions in the Byron Shire, and we were thrilled to receive funding for these additional charging stations,” Ms. Thatcher said.

Byron Shire already has the highest EV ownership in the Northern Rivers and ranks second in regional

NSW, with 517 EVs registered locally—a number expected to grow steadily.

“As a tourist destination, we also need to be ready for the needs of our visitors. Reducing ‘range anxiety’ is key to encouraging more people to adopt EVs,” Ms. Thatcher added.

Aligned with Sustainability Goals

The expansion of EV infrastructure aligns

with the Council’s Net Zero Emissions Action Plan and the Power Up Northern Rivers Electric Vehicle Strategy, which aim to support continued EV uptake in the region.

“Increasing EV infrastructure in the Shire is key to supporting the transition to a lowemissions future,” Ms. Thatcher said.

For more information, visit the Byron Shire Council website.

JEFF GIBBS

Tywana Caldwell Selected as Featured Artist for Lismore’s Reconciliation Action Plan

JEFF GIBBS

Lismore City Council has proudly announced Tywana Caldwell as the local artist whose work will feature prominently throughout the Council’s upcoming Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

Ms. Caldwell’s artwork, titled Ngulliboo, meaning ‘all of us’ in Bundjalung, symbolises the RAP’s vision of unity, strength, and connection.

Refecting on the signifcance of her work, Ms. Caldwell expressed her deep connection to the Lismore community.

“I am a proud Bundjalung woman from the Widjabul Wia-bal people here in Lismore. My family is from here—it’s my community. This is where I grew up and still live,” Ms. Caldwell said.

“The artwork represents what I think Lismore stands for—the things that shaped my belief in

why I think Lismore is beautiful. It’s beautiful to share because it’s about our community, about Lismore, and the people here.”

Celebrating Community and Connection

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg praised Ms. Caldwell’s artwork for embodying the values and aspirations of the Reconciliation Action

Plan.

“It’s important for us as a Council to support young people and nurture the incredible talent within our community. Tywana’s artwork refects the strength, connection, and unity that we strive for through our Reconciliation Action Plan,” Mayor Krieg said.

Lismore City Council General Manager Jon

Gibbons added that Lismore is privileged to have such talented individuals within its community.

“As we work on our fourth Reconciliation Action Plan, this incredible artwork serves as a powerful reminder of Lismore’s strength through community and our ongoing commitment to building stronger relationships with

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Mr. Gibbons said.

Community Consultation and Input

The new RAP is currently in the community consultation phase, with a framework being developed to outline the practical actions Council will take to strengthen relationships, respect, and opportunities for

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

To help gather community input, Council has engaged Tim Roberts from East Coast Heritage and Archaeology, who will work closely with the community to shape the new RAP.

A Your Say survey is now open, inviting residents to share their thoughts and ideas at www.yoursay.lismore. nsw.gov.au.

Additionally, members of the public are encouraged to attend a drop-in session at the Lismore Library Meeting Room (Lismore Central Shopping Centre) on Wednesday, 19 February, between 10am and 2pm. This will be an opportunity to have a yarn with Tim Roberts, share feedback, and contribute to the future of reconciliation in Lismore.

For more information, visit www.lismore.nsw. gov.au.

Tywana Caldwell Selected as Featured Artist for Lismore’s Reconciliation Action Plan

ROBERT HEYWARD

HAPPENING NOW:

Tensions are rising in North Lismore as NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) attempts to cut water supply to nine government-owned houses currently sheltering homeless people.

Local residents and homeless people have responded by blocking water lines with caravans, resulting in a peaceful standoff with police and authorities. Protesters, supported by House You and Reclaim Our Recovery (ROR), are calling the move a breach of human rights and a public health crisis in the making.

Despite ongoing negotiations for a humane solution, authorities appear determined to proceed with water

disconnection, prompting outrage from community advocates.

Access to water and sanitation is recognised as a fundamental human right under the United Nations Resolution A/ RES/64/292 (2010).

“A Breathtakingly Callous Act”

Chels Hood Withey of House You condemned the decision, describing it as a clear violation of international humanitarian standards.

“It’s breathtakingly callous for a government authority to use water disconnection as a tactic against homeless people,”

Ms. Withey said. “The NSW government is knowingly creating a public health crisis by cutting off water and sanitation from people who have nowhere else to go.”

Miriam Torzillo from

Reclaim Our Recovery echoed the sentiment:

“The people of Pine Street are humans entitled to basic human rights. Public health standards and international law should protect them, not be ignored for political convenience.”

Vacant Homes and a Growing Crisis

The situation is made

even more frustrating for advocates given the 800+ vacant government-owned homes in the Northern Rivers region.

“The occupation of eight homes in a quiet backstreet of Lismore is being treated as so problematic that authorities are willing to ignore public health obligations and push

these people out,” an ROR spokesperson said. “It’s staggering overreach.”

The Northern Rivers homelessness crisis continues to worsen, with public housing solutions dwindling from 40 promised homes to just 10, according to recent discussions with the RA.

Water Disconnection a Dangerous Move

The disconnection of water poses an immediate threat to basic sanitation for residents of Pine Street, many of whom are students, young workers, and vulnerable community members.

With temperatures soaring during the Australian summer, advocates warn that health risks will escalate while residents await a Supreme Court order that could legally force them to vacate.

“We’re not surprised that politics is triumphing over humanity once again,” House You concluded, “but the reckless intransigence of the Reconstruction Authority will have serious consequences— consequences for which they must be held accountable.”

Tywana Caldwell Selected

Artists in Focus: Tweed Regional Gallery Launches Autumn Exhibitions

ROBERT HEYWARD

The Tweed Regional Gallery is set to celebrate the start of its Autumn program with the launch of three exciting new exhibitions on Friday, 14 February. Showcasing the talents of Gadigal/ Sydney-based artist Minghua Xiang and regional artists Zion Levy Stewart and Dawn Walker, the exhibitions explore themes of life, connection, and creativity through unique artistic lenses.

Gallery Director Ingrid Hedgcock described the program as a vibrant refection of artistic diversity and personal storytelling.

“We are delighted to showcase these immensely talented artists, each offering a deeply personal and unique perspective on life and connection,” Ms. Hedgcock said. “We encourage everyone to visit, experience these works frsthand, and celebrate the incredible talent on display.”

Finding Harmony in Hope – Minghua Xiang Minghua Xiang,

recipient of the 2024 Tweed Regional Gallery National Art School (NAS) Master of Fine Art Residency Award, will present his solo exhibition

Finding Harmony in Hope, the culmination of his residency at the Nancy Fairfax Artist in Residence Studio.

Xiang’s work bridges traditional Eastern and Western aesthetics, blending gestural markmaking and abstraction to evoke a sense of interconnectedness. His layered paintings refect the ancient Chinese

proverb: “Harmony is most precious.”

Life is Art – Zion

Levy Stewart

Regional artist Zion Levy Stewart will showcase his joyful and heartwarming acrylic paintings in Life is Art, chronicling his 25-year journey as an artist.

Known for his infectious personality and vibrant creativity, Levy Stewart’s works capture a whimsical world of quirky people, birds, and animals, inviting viewers to see life through his unique lens.

“Zion’s art is a beacon

of positivity,” said his mother, Christine Levy. “It has the capacity to spread joy, bring happiness, and put smiles on people’s faces like a sunrise.”

Levy Stewart, who lives with Up Syndrome (commonly referred to as Down Syndrome), was a fnalist in the 2022 Wollumbin Art Award (WAA) at Tweed Regional Gallery.

Porcelain Places –Dawn Walker

Dawn Walker builds upon her previous work in the 2022 and 2024 Wollumbin

Art Awards with her exhibition Porcelain Places. Through delicate oil paintings, Walker explores the nostalgic beauty of antique souvenirs from the Tweed and surrounding regions, presenting serene landscapes and intimate still lifes that offer new meaning to these treasured keepsakes.

Walker’s work refects both the charm of the souvenirs and the deep connection they evoke to place and memory.

Opening Night and Public Programs

The Autumn exhibitions will offcially open on Friday, 14 February with doors opening at 6 pm. Guests are invited to enjoy a pre-event drink on the Apex Dining balcony, followed by opening speeches at 6.15 pm.

• Finding Harmony in Hope will be on display from 14 February to 22 June 2025.

• Life is Art and Porcelain Places will be open from 14 February to 4 May 2025. Bookings are essential via Humanitix for the opening event.

Gallery Playdate: Creative Fun for Children

• Date: Wednesday, 5 March | Time: 9 am – 10 am

• Program: A fun, free session for children aged 3–5 years and their carers, inspired by Dawn Walker’s Porcelain Places. Activities include sensory play, storytime, and guided artmaking for young creative minds. Bookings essential via Humanitix.

For more information and event details, visit the Tweed Regional Gallery website.

Byron Bay Woman’s Fight Against Rare Cancer Highlights Need to End Australia’s ‘Cancer Lottery’

IAN ROGERS

Most Australians remain unaware of the cancer lottery—a cruel reality for those diagnosed with rare or less common cancers. Unlike patients with more common types of cancer, those with rare diagnoses face not only a life-threatening disease but also a deeply unequal healthcare system that limits access to critical treatments and expertise.

In the lead-up to the federal election, Rare Cancers Australia (RCA) has released its 2025 Election Priorities manifesto, calling for urgent action to ensure specialised expertise, genomic medicines, and equitable access to

life-saving treatments for all cancer patients.

For 35-year-old Byron Bay resident Natalie Willacy, this unequal system is not just a political issue—it’s a matter of survival.

A Rare Diagnosis and an Uphill Battle

Natalie’s life changed one year ago when she was diagnosed with Adrenocortical Carcinoma, an extremely rare cancer. Her oncologist had never even heard of it.

“I was at the hospital when I got the news,” Natalie said. “I had a 17-centimetre tumour in my chest, just millimetres from my heart. Surgery was too dangerous. They told me if I made it through

the night, I’d start chemotherapy the next day.”

She made it through the night and began a gruelling round of chemotherapy. The treatment took a brutal toll, with side effects so severe that her medical team explored alternative options through genomic testing.

That testing led to Pembrolizumab (Keytruda)—an immunotherapy that offered new hope. The problem? Keytruda is not listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefts Scheme (PBS) for Natalie’s cancer, despite being approved for 13 other types of cancer. The cost: $8,000 per treatment.

“I need a round of immunotherapy every six weeks,” Natalie said. “Each treatment costs $8,000, and I have to travel between Byron and Brisbane for it. I couldn’t continue chemo because of the horrendous side effects, and the immunotherapy has reduced my tumour size and made surgery possible. But I had to access my superannuation just to afford it.”

A System Failing Regional Cancer Patients

Christine Cockburn, CEO of Rare Cancers Australia, says Natalie’s story is just one example of the systemic inequities rare cancer patients face—especially those in

regional areas.

“This federal election is a defning moment for cancer care in Australia,”

Ms. Cockburn said.

“It’s a chance to save thousands of lives and build a future where survival isn’t dictated by cancer type, postcode, or fnancial means.

“In the land of the fair go, this ‘cancer lottery’ is unacceptable. Every person diagnosed with cancer should have the best chance to survive and live well, no matter their income or where they live.”

A Call for Tangible Change

RCA’s 2025 Election Priorities manifesto lays out concrete solutions that must be top of the next federal

government’s agenda:

• Subsidised genomic testing to ensure accurate diagnoses and access to the best treatment options

• Faster, fairer, and affordable access to life-saving treatments

• Access to highly specialised expertise, regardless of a patient’s location

“This election is not just about politics; it’s about saving lives and fxing a broken system,” Ms. Cockburn said.

For Natalie and countless others living with rare cancers, the hope is that these changes come before it’s too late.

Minghua Xiang at the Nancy Fairfax Artist in Residence Studio in 2024 Photograph- Aaron Chapman

Dawn Walker, Swan souvenir 2024, oil on canvas, 28.5 x 23.5 cm, Image courtesy the artist © The artist

LIAM JENNINGS

Wanting to invite all your friends, family or colleagues to a event but can’t be bothered to send invites individually? Or stop from having another dreaded group chat that blast you with messages?

Well you’re in luck!

Apple has introduced their new app ‘Apple Invites’ that helps users create custom invitations to gather people to a special event or occasion.

With Apple Invites, an Apple user can create an event and share

invitations to anyone, even if the recipient isn't an Apple user. Once the event has been created, recipients can RSVP, contribute to Shared Albums and engage with Apple Music Playlist.

“With Apple Invites, an event comes to life from the moment the invitation is created, and users can share lasting memories even after they get together,” said Brent Chiu-Watson, Apple’s senior director of Worldwide Product Marketing for Apps and iCloud.

“Apple Invites brings

together capabilities our users already know and love across iPhone, iCloud, and Apple Music, making it easy to plan special events.”

To get started, the Apple User can create the event and choose an image from their photo library or the app’s gallery backgrounds which is a curated collection of images representing different event types. You can also integrate the app with Apple Maps and Apple Weather to give guest directions and weather specifc to the event.

As well as organising the event, guest can add photos to a dedicated Shared Album which allows them to share memories from the event. Guest can also add to a playlist on Apple Music if the event requires music.

Apple Intelligence also makes it easy for users to customise there event with the use of an AI Writing Tool and use the built-in Image Playground to produce original images using descriptions and concepts.

Host get full control

of the event by being able to customise every aspect of the event. They can manage the event details, share invitations, change and view the invitation preview and much more.

For guest, they can customise the invitation for how it shows up on their device without making any changes to the users event. They also have the ability to change there RSVP or to report the event if it looks suspicious.

Users can download Apple Invites from the App Store, or access

it on the web through icloud.com/invites. iCloud+ subscribers can create invitations, and anyone can RSVP, regardless of whether they have an Apple Account or Apple device. With Apple Invites, planning and managing events has never been easier. Whether you're hosting a family gathering, a work function, or a casual get-together with friends, this new app streamlines the invitation process, making it effortless and engaging for both hosts and guests.

LIAM JENNINGS

Swann, a global leader in security technology, has launched the Active Response Personal Safety Alarm, a compact yet powerful device designed to enhance personal security. With a 110-decibel emergency siren and smart alert features, the alarm aims to provide users with an extra layer of protection in emergencies.

Cutting-Edge Safety Features

The Swann Active Response Personal Alarm is more than just a noise deterrent. It integrates with the Swann Security app, allowing users to send instant emergency

alerts via SMS to their primary contacts when triggered. The device connects to smartphones via Bluetooth, ensuring a seamless link between the alarm and the user’s trusted network.

To activate the alarm, users can either pull

the emergency pin or press a dedicated button. The piercing siren is designed to deter potential threats and attract attention from bystanders, making it an effective tool for personal security in high-risk situations.

Subscription-Based Monitoring for Extra Protection

Swann offers an optional Active Response™ Plan, starting at $4.99 per month, which includes 24/7 professional monitoring and response services. With this plan, users can instantly connect to trained security experts in case of an emergency, providing a higher level of assurance, particularly for those who frequently walk alone at night, students, or the elderly.

Designed for Portability and Convenience

The device is designed to be lightweight and discreet, approximately

the size of a lipstick container, and comes with a keyring and lanyard attachment. This makes it easy to carry on a backpack, keychain, or purse, ensuring accessibility in critical moments.

Powered by a CR2 battery, the alarm boasts a battery life of up to one year, reducing the need for frequent replacements. This ensures users can rely on the device without worrying about constant maintenance.

Who Can Beneft from the Swann Active Response Personal Alarm?

Swann markets this device as a safety tool suitable for various demographics, including

women, seniors, students, runners, and night-shift workers. It provides peace of mind for those who may need immediate assistance in emergencies, whether they are facing a security threat, a fall, or a medical emergency.

A Game-Changer in Personal Security

As personal safety continues to be a growing concern, Swann’s latest innovation is set to make a signifcant impact. The Swann Active Response Personal Alarm offers a combination of traditional emergency alerts with modern smart technology, ensuring users feel safer in their daily lives.

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

Tracy Chapman Tribute Show

Andrea Kirwin and her band are bringing the Tracy Chapman Tribute show to Mullum Civic Hall on Friday 21 February 2025 with doors at 6.30pm for 7.30pm show start. Tickets are $45 plus booking fee and will be a 2 hour seated show with a 20 minute interval.

Seats are not allocated and there will be some seats set aside for anyone with accessibility requirements. Please book tickets early to avoid missing out. Please read on below for more information on the show being presented by Peace Run Records and Agency.

Most of us have a story about the frst time we discovered Tracy Chapman’s music.

For some of us it was driving on a road trip and hearing ‘Talking bout a Revolution’, or ‘Fast Car’ being played on the radio, for others we bought the vinyl record or cassette in the late 80s. For Australian/ Fijian singer-songwriter

Andrea Kirwin it was through discovering Tracy’s debut album in her big brother’s cd collection as a 7 year old in the early 90s. From that moment Andrea was intrigued and amazed at the voice she heard singing the songs in her bedroom in Townsville, QLD and back then she had no idea how Tracy’s legacy would help shape her into the musician she is today.

Since Tracy released her debut record on 5

April 1988, she has been in a league of her own and continued to be one of the most respected artists in the Music Industry globally. A self-confessed number 1 fan of Tracy, Andrea Kirwin grew up with Tracy’s music and has been performing covers of Tracy Chapman songs over her almost 20 year career in the Australian Folk Festival scene having started her own songwriting career at age 21 in Canberra back in 2006. Andrea performed her frst Tracy Chapman Tribute show tour with her band back in 2018 after many requests from friends and music lovers to put on a concert. Since then they have toured the 2 hour concert again in 2022 and will

ISAAC FRANKHAM - BYRON BAY | FREE ENTRY

Featuring:

• ISAAC FRANKHAM

• SPECIAL GUESTS

TBA Get ready to dance the night away with the incredible local talent

Isaac Frankham as he brings all your favourite hits to the stage, Join us from 9 PM - 2 AM for an epic night of live music, as Isaac takes you through the best party anthems and timeless classics.

be performing select Theatres and regional halls across QLD, NSW and VIC in February 2025 and coming to Mullum Civic Hall on Friday 21 February. Andrea and Band will cover songs from each of Tracy’s 8 albums including favourites such as ‘Fast Car’, ‘Give Me One Reason’, ‘Talking Bout A Revolution’, ‘The Promise’ and more with additional songs including some of Tracy’s collaborations such as ‘The Thrill Is Gone’, which she performed with B.B King, ‘Sweet Home Chicago’ with Bonnie Raitt and ‘Ain’t No Sunshine’ with Buddy Guy.

Even through Tracy Chapman remains

quite the enigma to the general public, you can tell a lot about Tracy through her lyrics and songs. Tracy’s music is authentic, powerful and unforgettable. Andrea will explore some of these questions and tell stories about the signifcance of some of the songs during the concert, which will be played very much the same as on the original recordings. Andrea’s band consists of drums, bass, electric guitar, keys and some concerts will also feature special guest artist appearances. As Tracy Chapman is a private person this concert isn’t a description of Tracy’s life but more a celebration of her music and lyrics, performed

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Sat 22nd Feb @8pm

• Where: The Northern, Byron Bay

• Price: Free

beautifully by Andrea and her band. Fans of Tracy Chapman are welcome to sing along and join in and hopefully one day we look forward to presenting this show at Mullum Civic Centre on Friday 21 February.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Fri 21st Feb @7pm

• Where: Mullumbimby Civic Hall

• Price: From $13

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 The distance from Paris to London is approximately how many kilometres?

(a) 116 (b) 344 (c) 783 (d) 992

2 In the United States, Thanksgiving is celebrated on which Thursday during the month of November?

(a) Fourth (b) Third (c) Second (d) First

3 Simon Whitlock is best known for his involvement in which sport? (a) Darts

(b) Soccer (c) Lawn bowls (d) Field hockey

4 In which part of the human body is the medial plantar artery located?

(a) Neck (b) Thigh (c) Forearm (d) Foot

5 Olympia is the capital city of which US state? (a) Wisconsin (b) Vermont (c) Washington (d) Ohio

6 Which one of the following events is not included in a women’s decathlon competition? (a) Discus throw (b) 100 metres hurdles (c) 1500 metres (d) Triple jump

PUZZLES

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 ARGENT

(a) A burner admitting air within a cylindrical frame

(b) Silver

(c) The adjutant stork

2 ETYPICAL

(a) Unconformable to type

(b) Relating to the true origin of a word

(c) Concerning nations or race

3 INTERPOLATE

(a) To translate

(b) To question

(c) To tamper with

4 PROGENITOR

(a) A traitor

(b) A weather prophet

(c) The founder of a family

5 VELLEITY

(a) Mere inclination

(b) Concealment

(c) Sincerity

BEST ON THE BOX

MONDAY

SUITS L.A.

SEVEN, 9.10pm

It’s a story every TV producer dreams of: four years after legal drama Suits called it quits in 2019, the series became the most-streamed show of 2023 (even beating Bluey). Whatever the reason for its belated surge in popularity (though razor-sharp writing, racy o ce romances and curiosity about Meghan Markle’s acting talents come to mind), creator Aaron Korsh can only hope lightning strikes twice with this West Coast spin-o . It follows former New York federal prosecutor Ted Black (Arrow’s Stephen Amell, pictured), whose fresh start as an entertainment lawyer isn’t going to plan – his Black Lane rm is in dire straits and he’s not at all keen on the only way to save it from ruin.

FRIDAY, February 21

TUESDAY NCIS

TEN, 9pm

Along with fast-paced investigations, intriguing cases and snappy dialogue, one of the joys in watching this longrunning naval crime procedural lies in teasing out the details of its character’s personal lives. While Supervisory Special Agent Alden Parker (Gary Cole, pictured) isn’t quite as mysterious as his predecessor Gibbs (Mark Harmon), we still don’t know too much about the team leader when he’s not on the clock. However, tonight’s episode makes one thing crystal clear about Parker: his penchant for pastries. Directed by Rocky Carroll, who ( ttingly) plays Director Vance, “Baker’s Man” sees Eleni (CSI: NY star Melina Kanakaredes), the owner of Parker’s favourite bakery, targeted by blackmailers.

6.00 News. 9.00 ABC News Mornings.

10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 11.05 The Newsreader. (Ml, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Malv, R) 3.00 Nigella Bites. (R)

3.25 Grand Designs. (R)

4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)

5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Monty Don’s Spanish Gardens. Monty Don travels across the north of Spain.

8.30 Silent Witness. (Final, Ma) Nikki and the team are called to Kings Cross station museum, after eight bodies are found entombed below.

10.15 Optics. (Mls, R) A Hollywood star challenges the team.

10.45 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

11.15 ABC Late News.

11.30 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) (PG, R)

12.15 Grand Designs. (R)

1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10 Wonderful World Of Baby Animals. (PG, R) 10.00 Puppy Secrets: The First Six Months. (Final, R) 11.00 Georgia From Above. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Abyss: The Rise And Fall Of The Nazis. (PGav, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secrets Of Royal Gardens. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

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

7.30 James May: Our Man In Italy. (Premiere, Ml)

8.30 Tony Robinson’s Marvellous Machines: Mighty Machines. (R) A look at mighty machines.

9.25 Mysteries Of The Ancient Dead: Zoroastrians, Mongolia, The Bo.

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Bonn. (Msv) 11.45 Sisi. (MA15+s, R)

2.30 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (PGa, R)

3.30 Employable Me (USA) (Ma, R)

4.20 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.45pm Beep And Mort. 3.00 Play School. 3.50 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.25 Nella The Princess Knight. 5.20 Kangaroo Beach. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning

PBS News. 5.30 Cycling. ProVelo Super League. Round 3. 8.35 If You Are The One. 9.35 Love And Sex In Japan. 10.45 Pose. 1am Hells Angels: Kingdom Come. 1.55 Sex, Drugs And Bicycles. 3.35

a rough-and-tumble approach to the historical events it’s based upon. Taking place in Spring 1943, the second season sees the SAS threatened with disbandment before the elite British Army regiment spearheads an assault on Italy. Gwilym Lee (pictured,above right) joins the cast as Bill Stirling, a new thorn in the side of Lieutenant Paddy Mayne (Jack O’Connell, pictured, above left) and the brother of his captured comrade David (Connor Swindells). The action begins in Cairo, where Paddy is in military prison after an explosive reaction to being denied leave for his father’s funeral.

ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (6) TEN (5) NBN (8, 80)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 2.00 To Be Advised. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Adam Dovile travels in Canada.

8.30 MOVIE: The Greatest Showman. (2017, PGa, R) After meeting a wealthy playwright, showman and entrepreneur PT Barnum sets out to create a wax museum and circus. However, as his fame grows and business ventures increase, he almost loses everything. Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams, Zac Efron.

10.40 GetOn Extra.

11.10 To Be Advised.

12.50 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

To The Country. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 DVine Living. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Surf Patrol. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt.

(64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 12.50pm My

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The 13th Summer. (2022, Mlv, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 David Attenborough’s Mammals: The New Wild. (PG) Looks at how mammals must adapt.

8.40 MOVIE: The Hitman’s Bodyguard. (2017, MA15+alv, R) A bodyguard must protect the life of a hit man who is set to testify at the International Criminal Court. Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L Jackson, Gary Oldman.

11.05 MOVIE: No Sudden Move. (2021, MA15+lv) Don Cheadle.

1.00 Getaway. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Wheel Of Fortune UK. Contestants compete to solve word puzzles in order to win cash and prizes determined by The Wheel. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Graham Norton is joined on the red couch by actors Julianne Moore and Paapa Essiedu, comedian Ricky Gervais and celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. Singer Olivia Dean performs her single Dive 10.50 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.15 The Project. (R) 12.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6am Hook, Line And Sinker. 7.00 Step Outside. 7.30 Creek To Coast. 8.00 A Football Life. 9.00 America’s Game. 10.00 Blokesworld. 10.30 Freesurfer. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 American Resto. Noon American Pickers. 1.00 Pawn Stars. 2.00 Pawn Stars Do America. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Counting Cars. 4.30 Storage Wars. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Surveillance Oz: Dashcam. 8.30 MOVIE: Ambulance. (2022, MA15+) 11.25 Late Programs.

9GO! (83) 6am Bride And Prejudice. Continued. (2004, PG) 7.05 Red Obsession. (2013, PG) 8.35 Princess Caraboo. (1994, PG) 10.25 Swan Song. (2021, M) 12.25pm The Big Chill. (1983, M) 2.25 Magnetic Fields. (2021, PG, Greek) 4.00 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir. (2018, PG) 5.50 Paris Can Wait. (2016, PG) 7.30 Dance First. (2023) 9.30 My Policeman. (2022, MA15+) 11.35 Black Bear. (2020, MA15+) 1.35am Redemption Of A Rogue. (2020, MA15+) 3.25 Blue Jean. (2022, M) 5.15 The Last Wave. (1977, PG)

6am Children’s Programs. Noon Gossip Girl. 2.00 The Golden Girls. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom. (1984, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Loop Track. (2023, MA15+) Midnight MOVIE: Wish Upon. (2017, M) 1.45 Love After Lockup. 3.00 Bakugan. 3.30 Beyblade Burst QuadStrike. 4.00 Transformers Bumblebee: Cyberverse Adventures. 4.30 Late Programs.

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

A E L

B M O

M E R

Today’s target: 14 words average 20 words good

30+ words excellent

Find words of four letters or more. Every word must include the centre letter and each letter is used once only. Find at least one nine-letter word. No colloquial or foreign words, capitalised nouns, apostrophes, hyphens. No verbs or plural words ending in ‘s’. Solution list is not exhaustive. Ref: Macquarie Dictionary

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

Media

Rams love to rush full speed ahead, but this week’s frustrating stars don’t encourage haste. Your patron planet Mars is still retrograde (until February 24). So, if your actions are blocked or a relationship hits a brick wall, then use it as an opportunity to regroup, re-plan and re-energise. You thrive on debate and confrontation but pick your battles carefully because (in the short term) you’re unlikely to win. Compromise and a cool head will get you a lot further.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

It’s time to review and renew your peer group as the Sun, Mercury, Saturn and Neptune fire up your friendship and networking zones. Be inspired by birthday great, writer Anais Nin: “Each friend represents a world in us, a world not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born.” When it comes to neighbours and local community connections, don’t rush. Meditation, contemplation, rumination and relaxation are favoured.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

This week Jupiter squares your ruling planet, Mercury. So, if you spread gossip or jump to hasty conclusions, you could end up in hot water. And avoid the tendency to take shortcuts, especially at work. A slap-dash attitude will only mean you have to do everything twice. With a more methodical and practical approach, you can accomplish tasks and still have plenty of time to play. With Mars reversing through your money zone, impulse buys are a temptation.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

It’s not a good week to initiate ambitious projects that require heaps of energy and buckets of enthusiasm. Mars is reversing through your sign (until next Monday, February 24) so you may feel like a sluggish, unmotivated, cranky Crab! However, it is a suitable time to revise, rehearse and re-imagine. So your motto for the moment is from writer and birthday great, Anais Nin: “There are many ways to be free. One of them is to transcend reality by imagination …”

Saturn is transiting through one of your money zones, so look for ways to consolidate your finances and build firm fiscal foundations for the future. Getting sound professional advice is best policy, as you work on manifesting abundance. Inspiration and intuition are taking a short break, but they’ll be back soon. Your motto for the week is from writer and birthday great Anais Nin: “You should not give anybody the power to decide what is right and wrong in your creativity.”

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

Partnerships – of the romantic, platonic and business variety – are highlighted, as the planets activate your relationship zone. Jupiter is visiting your career and life direction zones, so self-belief is the key to success and satisfaction. Don’t let annoying disruptions and minor matters rattle you! Keep going on your chosen path, with confidence and determination. Be inspired by birthday great, writer Anais Nin: “Good things happen to those who hustle.”

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22) It’s not a good week to initiate ambitious professional projects that require plenty of energy, enthusiasm and motivation. Dynamic Mars is reversing through your career zone (until next Monday, February 24) so you may feel like a lazy, lacklustre Libran! However, it is a suitable time to review, revise, rehearse and re-imagine. Venus is transiting through your relationship zone, so make sure you tell loved ones how much they mean to you.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

On Tuesday the Sun transits into fellow water-sign Pisces, which boosts your creativity, compassion and sensitivity. However, this week much of your time could be consumed by a frustrating problem involving a child, teenager or friend. In order to satisfactorily resolve the situation, you’ll need to be discreet, proactive and patient. If you are going away (locally, interstate or overseas), then take your time and double-check all travel arrangements carefully.

Speedy, spontaneous Sagittarius – it’s time to slow down and tread gingerly. Mars is still in retrograde mode until February 24, so avoid being too blasé about a complicated issue (especially involving intimacy, trust, taxes, income, property, possessions or joint finances). With Jupiter (your patron planet) squaring communication planet Mercury on Thursday/Friday, be careful you don’t put your foot firmly in your mouth and end up offending a loved one.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

Mighty Mars is still reversing through your relationship zone until Monday, February 24, so be extra patient with loved ones. Jupiter blesses professional projects with one proviso … your heart must be in what you are doing. If you’re just going through the motions, it will affect the quality of your work. On Thursday and Friday, don’t jump to conclusions and assume you know what a relative, neighbour or colleague is thinking. You may be way off the mark.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

Four planets are activating your cash zone. Letting finances take their own course seems tempting but you really do need to keep up to speed with money matters. If you increase your financial literacy then it will pay off handsomely further down the track, as you replace short-term whims with long-term strategies. This week’s positive Venus vibes are fabulous for social media connections and inventive internet endeavours as you talk, text, tweet and post up a storm. PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

Courtesy of retro Mars, be extra patient with a child, teenager or friend. On Tuesday, the Sun joins Mercury, Saturn and Neptune in Pisces. So you’ll feel like daydreaming and creating even more than usual as you perform, paint, draw, dance, write, sing songs, play music or take photographs. Be inspired by writer and birthday great Anais Nin: “Throw your dreams into space like a kite, and you do not know what it will bring back, a new life, a new friend, a new love.”

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

MARTIN WAY

Round Up: A Country Club Night - Brunswick Heads

BRUNSWICK!! Get your boots on, ‘cause Round Up! is rollin’ into town with the rootenest tootenest Country Music Club Night around! We’ll have our DJs spinnin’ all your favourite country bands and artists from Luke Combs to Dolly Parton, Kacey Musgraves to Morgan Wallen + everything in between! Jump on these tickets now, because they’ll be Going Going Gone real soon!

SOUNDS LIKE:

Zach Bryan: Morgan Wallen: Luke Combs: Kacey Musgraves: Bryan Martin: Dolly

Parton: Chris Stapleton: Tucker Whetmore: Sam Hunt: Travis Collins: Rascal Flatts: Casey Barnes: Megan Morony: James Johnston: Jayden

Shingleton: Kaylee

Bell: Shania Twain:

Morgan Evans: Blake

Shelton: Faith Hill: Blanco Brown: Taylor

Swift: Jelly Roll: Brad

Cox: HARDY: Carrie

Underwood: Walker

Hayes: Darius Rucker: Andrew Swift: Kane

Brown: Hudson Rose: Taylor Moss: Johnny

Cash: Seaforth: Zac

Brown Band: Pistol

Annies: Willie Tate: Keith Urban: Thomas Rhett: Reba McEntire:

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Fri 21st Feb @6pm

• Where: Hotel Brunswick, Brunswick Heads

• Price: From $14.78

Singer/Songwriter/ Guitarist Playing professionally in S E Qld and Northern NSW for over 25 years, Martin has built up a wide following who are never surprised to hear ‘the unexpected’. His ever-increasing variety of material, enables him to take you on a special journey and his passion for giving the audience his best, is embellished with his own personal take on all the classics we know and

When you’ve got a back catalogue like Daryl Braithwaite’s it’s hard to fnd new material that will slip easily into an established canon of classic hits. In 2020, when almost no one expected it, Braithwaite returned with a stunning new single ‘Love Songs’.Let’s face it, you don’t get to wear that King of Pop crown for nothing. Daryl’s vocal pipes should be listed as a national treasure – as should his instinct for hearing a song and making it his own.

It’s no surprise Daryl’s live audience warmed to the song immediately.

“It’s like when I started out with Sherbet in 1970, that’s how you would gauge the

love. Previously from Sydney, the soloist has toured nationally and overseas.

He has supported such icons as James Morrison; Gang Gajang and Jimmy little (to name a few). In his early years he concentrated mainly on original material, he released 5 studio albums and played with some of Australia’s fnest musicians, such as Mark Kennedy (Jimmy Barnes, Renee Gayer);

Tim Reeves (Mungo Jerry); Jeremy Stone (David Bowie); Pixie Paul Jenkins (John Williamson) etc.

Today, he can expertly manoeuvre through most eras of music and it is easy to feel the passion and share the enjoyment of this acoustic guitarist. His ability to please and create a great atmosphere will certainly entertain and leave everyone with lasting memories of a night well spent.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Sun 23rd Feb @1pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Banora Point

• Price: Free

DARYL BRAITHWAITE

reaction to new material.

We’d all discuss it after the gig if the song had worked or not. The audience are the best indicator of those things.”

“Roger fnally got to hear it and said, ‘It suits

you more than P!nk, and she’s not recording at the moment’. I was relieved. So, we went ahead and recorded it.”

ABOUT DARYL

BRAITHWAITE

Daryl Braithwaite is an iconic Australian

singer/songwriter and ARIA Hall Of Fame Inductee. As the front man and vocalist for 1970’s band Sherbet, Braithwaite rode a wave of local and international success with songs such as Howzat

and Summer Love propelling the band the band to superstar status.

Braithwaite went on to embark on a highly successful solo career which included a #1 ARIA Album Chart for his album Edge (1988) featuring the hit singles As The Days Go By and One Summer.

Braithwaite’s 1990 follow up album Rise included the single The Horses which reached #1 on the ARIA Singles Chart and to this day remains an anthem for generations of Australians. In 2020, Braithwaite joined a host of local and international artists to perform at Fire Fight Australia, Concert For National Bushfre Relief in front of an

audience in excess of 70,000 at Sydney’s ANZ Stadium. In 2023 Daryl was invited by Harry Styles to sing HORSES with him at Accor Stadium Sydney in front of 60,000 people.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Sat 22nd Feb @8pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: $66

Jason Lee: Dustin Lynch: Steve Earle: Christie Lamb: Cam + Heaps More...

Toyota GR Super Sport

670kW Hybrid Beast to Redefne the Supercar Game

JEFF GIBBS

The Toyota GR Super Sport is coming, and it’s bringing 670kW of hybrid fury to the streets. As the spiritual successor to the Lexus LFA, this beast is set to crush expectations with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 hybrid, track-inspired engineering, and stunning looks that scream performance. Forget limited editions— this time, the GR Super Sport is here to stay as a catalogue model.

Toyota’s Gazoo Racing (GR) division is dialling up the excitement, combining lessons from the racetrack with cutting-edge tech for the ultimate driving experience. Expect spine-tingling

JEFF GIBBS

The Toyota Celica, once synonymous with affordable performance, may be returning in 2026, according to recent industry reports. The Celica, which frst debuted in 1970, earned a loyal fanbase over seven generations before production ended in 2006. Now, Toyota appears ready to resurrect the legendary nameplate with a modern, technology-forward interpretation of the sports coupe.

acceleration, razorsharp handling, and a hybrid howl that’ll leave your heart racing. Performance and Powertrain: Built for Speed

The GR Super Sport swaps the LFA’s legendary V10 for a 4.0-litre twinturbocharged V8 paired with a multi-stage hybrid system, producing a jaw-dropping 670kW (900hp) of combined power. Here’s what makes it special:

• Engine Power: 537kW (720hp) from the V8 alone

• Hybrid Boost: Adds serious torque and responsiveness for instant power delivery

• Drive Layout: Front-engine, rear transaxle, rear-wheel

drive for optimal weight distribution and handling balance

• Chassis: Alloy frame with carbon-fbre body panels, blending strength and lightweight construction for agility and speed

With this powertrain setup, expect 0–100 km/h in under 3 seconds and a top speed that punches beyond 330 km/h.

Dimensions: Aggressive Stance, Low Profle

The GR Super Sport keeps things low and wide for maximum stability and aerodynamics. According to BestCarWeb, its dimensions are:

• Length: 4600mm

• Width: 1950mm

• Height: 1200mm The sleek bodywork

and aggressive lines not only boost aerodynamics but give the car a menacing presence on the road. Expect sharp creases, a wide rear end, and a road-hugging stance that will turn heads wherever it goes.

Tech and Design: RaceReady Meets Luxury Inside, the GR Super Sport blends raceinspired minimalism with luxury fnishes. Expect lightweight materials like Alcantara, carbon fbre, and cutting-edge tech, from a confgurable digital cockpit to advanced driving aids for track or street use.

Advanced suspension systems and performance brakes will keep this beast under control, while active

aerodynamics ensure maximum grip at speed.

Track Roots, Road Focus

Testing at SpaFrancorchamps and Fuji Speedway has shaped the GR Super Sport into a track weapon that’s just as comfortable tearing up twisty mountain roads. Toyota’s GR GT3 race car has clearly infuenced its design and performance ethos, blending race car pedigree with everyday usability.

Availability and Price Set to hit the market in late 2025, the GR Super Sport is expected to cost around $A315,000—a bargain for a car offering supercar performance with hybrid effciency. Unlike the LFA’s limited

Toyota Celica Revival Rumoured for 2026

electric motor, creating a high-performance hybrid. This setup could deliver the perfect blend of power and effciency, with an expected output north of 220kW (300hp). Such a move aligns with Toyota’s carbon-neutral strategy, while

distribution for enhanced grip and cornering performance. Gazoo Racing (GR), Toyota’s performance arm responsible for the GR Yaris and GR Corolla, is rumoured to be leading the project, ensuring the car will have track-ready

Its combination of lightweight design, precise handling, and approachable performance made it a favorite among enthusiasts.

A Hybrid Powertrain for the Future

Leaked information suggests that the new Celica will feature a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine paired with an

maintaining the sporty DNA that made the Celica famous. To keep up with current performance car trends, the Celica could offer all-wheel drive (AWD), taking advantage of electric torque

Celica’s Racing Legacy

The original Celica established itself as a dominant force in rally racing, winning multiple World Rally Championship (WRC) titles in the 1990s.

Design-wise, the 2026 Celica is expected to take cues from Toyota’s GR GT3 Concept, featuring a low-profle coupe shape, aggressive bodywork, and advanced aerodynamics.

Inside, expect a drivercentric cabin with digital instrumentation, performance seats, and Toyota’s latest infotainment and safety technologies. What’s Next?

While Toyota has not offcially confrmed the Celica’s return, industry watchers believe the announcement could come in early 2025, with a potential unveiling at Tokyo Auto Salon or

run of just 500 units, this new model will have ongoing production, giving more enthusiasts a shot at ownership.

Final Word: The LFA Legacy Reborn

The Toyota GR Super Sport isn’t just a car; it’s a statement. It combines track-bred performance, futuristic tech, and Toyota’s unmatched reliability. For those lucky enough to get behind the wheel, it promises to be a oncein-a-lifetime driving experience. Whether you’re a fan of the original LFA or just love the idea of a 670kW street-legal race car, the GR Super Sport is the one to watch. Buckle up—this hybrid beast is ready to change the game.

Geneva Motor Show. If true, the 2026 Toyota Celica promises to be a worthy successor, blending nostalgia with modern performance tech for a new generation of enthusiasts.

Trump’s Steel Tariffs: Potential Blow to Australia’s Metal Industry

U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium imports are reigniting fears of global trade disruption, with Australia’s $113 billion metal industry potentially caught in the crossfre. While Australia’s direct steel and aluminium exports to the U.S. are relatively modest— around $1 billion in 2023, according to UN Comtrade—the ripple effects of protectionist measures could signifcantly impact prices, jobs, and competitiveness across the country.

A Small but Vulnerable Market Share

Australia’s direct exports to the U.S. include $500 million of aluminium and $400 million of steel, representing just 10% of total metal exports. Still, industry experts warn that the secondary impacts— global oversupply, price hikes, and increased competition in Asia— could pose a much larger threat.

Mark Wilson, CEO of the Australian Steel Institute, expressed concern over how global price instability could harm local businesses.

“While our direct exposure to the U.S. market is limited, Australia cannot operate in isolation from the global market,” Wilson said. “U.S. tariffs would food the Asian market with cheap steel, making it diffcult for Australian producers to compete and driving down prices. This will hit regional economies like Port Kembla and Whyalla hard.”

Aluminium Industry Braces for Impact

The Australian Aluminium Council sees

particular risks for the aluminium sector, which relies on international markets for a large share of its business.

Rachel Green, spokesperson for the Council, highlighted the vulnerability of the industry.

“Our aluminium exports to the U.S. may not be as large as China’s, but every lost contract has a real impact on jobs and production,” Green said. “Australia’s aluminium producers are already under pressure from rising energy costs and supply chain disruptions. If tariffs make it harder to compete internationally, we’ll see that pressure intensify.”

Aluminium is critical to industries such as aerospace, automotive manufacturing, and packaging, making access to global markets essential for Australian producers.

Infrastructure and Manufacturing at Risk Beyond direct exports, the construction and manufacturing sectors in Australia may also face rising costs if global steel and aluminium prices spike due to U.S. protectionist policies. This could delay major infrastructure projects and increase costs for renewable energy development and vehicle manufacturing.

David King, a senior economist at the Grattan Institute, warned that increased volatility could undermine Australia’s infrastructure pipeline.

“If steel prices rise signifcantly, it could add hundreds of millions of dollars in additional costs to large projects,” King said. “This would ultimately hit taxpayers and slow the rollout of critical infrastructure.”

Manufacturers dependent on affordable

steel and aluminium may also have to pass rising costs on to consumers, affecting sectors like construction, white goods, and renewable energy products.

The Geopolitical Tightrope Australia’s response to U.S. tariffs could also have farreaching diplomatic consequences, forcing the country to balance its long-standing alliance with the U.S. and its economic reliance on China—Australia’s largest trading partner.

Dr. Peter Collins, a trade policy expert at the University of Sydney, sees a complex diplomatic challenge.

“Backing the U.S. on tariffs could risk economic retaliation from China, which would be catastrophic for Australia’s broader export market,” Dr. Collins said. “But opposing the U.S. could strain diplomatic relations, particularly in the Indo-Pacifc region, where security cooperation is vital.

China: The Economic Juggernaut China is Australia’s largest trading partner, accounting for over 30% of total exports, including iron ore, coal, agricultural products, and consumer goods. Any perceived alignment with U.S. protectionist policies could provoke retaliatory measures from China, which has historically used trade

restrictions as a political tool.

In 2020, after Australia called for an independent inquiry into the origins of COVID-19, China imposed tariffs on Australian barley and suspended imports of coal, wine, and beef. A similar response to Australia siding with the U.S. on tariffs could have devastating economic consequences, particularly for exportdependent sectors.

Dr. Peter Collins, a trade policy expert from the University of Sydney, highlights the stakes:

“China holds immense economic leverage over Australia. Any move that Beijing interprets as aligning too closely with U.S. trade policies could lead to swift and severe repercussions, particularly in the resource and agricultural sectors.”

The Indo-Pacifc Security Dilemma

While trade with China is crucial, regional security concerns cannot be ignored. The Indo-Pacifc region is increasingly volatile, with China asserting its infuence through military expansion. Australia’s alignment with U.S. defense strategy—especially through partnerships like AUKUS—requires continued U.S. diplomatic and military support. However, tying security and trade policy too closely could lead to

confict with Australia’s broader regional interests. Southeast Asian nations, many of which rely on steel and aluminium exports to the U.S., may also be affected by the tariffs, complicating Australia’s regional relationships.”

Strategies for Mitigation

Experts are calling on the Australian government to proactively engage in diplomacy and prepare contingency plans.

Several strategies have been recommended to mitigate the potential impacts:

• Diplomatic lobbying to secure an exemption, as Australia successfully did in 2018.

• Diversifying export markets in Asia and Europe to reduce reliance on U.S. demand.

• Investing in advanced manufacturing, enabling local industries to create value-added products and reduce dependence on commodity exports.

• Strengthening regional trade agreements like the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacifc Partnership (CPTPP) to open up alternative markets.

A High-Stakes Balancing Act

For Australia, the return of U.S. steel tariffs is not just an economic issue—it’s a geopolitical test. Balancing the need for strong U.S. security ties with the imperative to maintain healthy

economic relations with China and regional partners is a complex but essential task.

The wrong move could leave Australia isolated, caught between two superpowers with competing interests. The right approach will require diplomacy, strategic foresight, and regional leadership—all while ensuring the nation’s long-term economic stability and security.

As global trade tensions rise, Australia must tread carefully or risk being caught in the crossfre. Conclusion: Preparing for the Worst

While Australia’s direct exposure to U.S. steel and aluminium tariffs may seem small, the knock-on effects could be signifcant.

Price volatility, global oversupply, and heightened competition in Asia are all potential risks that could affect not just the metal industry but also infrastructure, manufacturing, and regional jobs.

“We’ve been here before, and we’ve seen the damage these tariffs can do,” said Mark Wilson of the Australian Steel Institute. “This time, we need to be prepared—not reactive.”

As the world braces for another round of trade tensions, Australia must act swiftly to protect its industries and position itself for long-term resilience. The stakes are too high to ignore.

JEFF GIBBS

Australia should look to New Zealand’s experience as a warning against allowing superannuation withdrawals for home deposits, with new research showing that such policies drove house prices higher while reducing homeownership rates, particularly for younger buyers.

The KiwiSaver HomeStart scheme, introduced in 2010, aimed to help frst home buyers enter the market by allowing them to access their retirement savings. However, evidence from New Zealand’s lived experience shows the

policy had the opposite effect—fuelling rapid house price growth and increasing debt levels among frst home buyers. What Happened in New Zealand?

A detailed analysis by the Super Members Council highlights key trends since the policy’s introduction:

• House prices surged 134% from June 2010 to June 2024—1.5 times faster than Australia’s house prices during the same period.

• Homeownership rates declined, particularly for people in their 30s, falling by 7%.

• Debt levels skyrocketed, with frst home buyers taking out larger mortgages to keep

up with rising prices.

• High loan-to-value ratio (LVR) loans tripled, with 75% of frst home buyers now taking on loans exceeding 80% of the property value, compared to just 25% in 2014.

Instead of creating more opportunities for young people to buy homes, the scheme accelerated house price infation. Since 2014, the majority of frst home buyers in New Zealand have had no choice but to access their retirement savings, with the proportion rising from 65% in 2015–16 to 77% in 2023–24.

Super Members

Council CEO Misha Schubert said Australia

should avoid repeating New Zealand’s mistakes.

“If you want to see further rises in house prices and falling homeownership rates, New Zealand shows a super-for-housing policy will lead you there,” Ms. Schubert said. “But if you want to fx the housing crisis, the answer lies in building more homes and expanding supply—not raiding superannuation.”

Higher House Prices, Lower Returns

The research reveals a strong link between KiwiSaver withdrawals and house price spikes—when withdrawals rose, so did house prices. During the COVID-19 period, when

Cautionary Tale: New Zealand’s Super for Housing Scheme Led to Higher Prices, Fewer Homeowners

withdrawals temporarily declined, house prices followed suit.

Additionally, the fnancial impact on retirement savings is signifcant. New Zealand’s retirement funds are required to hold more liquid assets to meet withdrawal demand, resulting in lower returns compared to Australia’s superannuation funds.

By September 2024, Australian MySuper products had outperformed KiwiSaver options by an average of 1.16% annually over the past decade. If replicated in Australia, this lower return would leave a 30-year-old worker earning the median wage $132,000 worse off at retirement.

Economists Agree: Housing Supply, Not Super, Is the Answer

A recent Economic Society of Australia survey found only 1 out of 49 leading economists supported the idea of allowing super withdrawals for housing.

Saul Eslake, a respected independent economist,

reinforced this view in a comprehensive report for the Super Members Council.

“Policies that allow Australians to pay more for housing only make homes more expensive. They don’t increase homeownership rates,” Mr. Eslake concluded.

The long-term consequences for government spending are also stark. Australian pension costs are falling, but if a super-for-housing policy is introduced, spending could rise to $8 billion per year by 2102, with a total cumulative cost of $304 billion to the federal budget.

Building Supply, Not Higher Debt Experts and policymakers agree that addressing Australia’s housing crisis requires building more homes, not policies that infate house prices and debt levels.

“The evidence is clear,” Ms. Schubert said.

“Super for housing won’t help young Australians— it will push the dream of homeownership even further out of reach.”

JEFF GIBBS

What You Need to Know About Australia’s $573 Million Women’s Health Package

IAN ROGERS

The federal government has unveiled a $573 million women’s health package, promising signifcant savings for younger women on oral contraceptives and older women experiencing menopause. The new measures aim to make essential therapies and treatments more affordable while addressing long-overdue health concerns for Australian women.

Menopausal Hormone Therapy Subsidies

From 1 March, three menopausal hormone therapies—Estrogel Pro, Estrogel, and Prometrium—will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefts Scheme (PBS). Currently, over 100,000 women pay around $650 per year for these medicines. Under the PBS, eligible patients will pay just $7.70 per month with a concession card or $31.60 per month for general patients.

Dr. Sonia Davison, endocrinology lead at the Jean Hailes Clinic, welcomed the change, saying it would make a “meaningful difference” to many women’s lives.

“For far too long, menopausal women have had their experiences dismissed and faced barriers to accessing affordable treatment options,” Dr. Davison said.

One in four women experiences severe or prolonged menopausal symptoms that can affect their quality of life. Symptoms include hot fushes, night sweats, sleep deprivation, joint pain, mood changes, and decreased concentration, often lasting around seven years.

New Oral Contraceptive Pills on the PBS

The package also includes the frst PBS listing of new oral contraceptive pills in more than 30 years. Yaz and Yasmin will now be available at a subsidised price, helping 50,000 women save hundreds of dollars annually.

Women who currently pay around $380 per year for non-PBS listed contraceptive pills will now pay $126.40 annually, or $30.80 with a concession card.

Savings on LongTerm Contraceptive Procedures

The government will

also increase Medicare payments to doctors and nurse practitioners for the bulk-billed insertion and removal of long-term contraceptive devices such as implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs).

Medicare rebates for these services will rise by up to 150%, with around 300,000 women expected to save up to $400 in out-of-pocket costs annually.

Future Investments and Expanded Services

Other measures in the $573.3 million package are expected to roll out after the upcoming election, should Labor secure another term.

These include:

• Increased Medicare rebates for menopause health assessments and long-term contraceptive procedures

• New pelvic pain clinics

• Further investments in perimenopause and menopause services

Health Minister Mark Butler said the absence of new contraceptive pills or menopausal hormone therapies on the PBS for decades demonstrated the

system’s failure to meet women’s needs.

“Today’s announcement is a tribute to all the Australian women who have worked so hard, for so long, to have their voices heard and acknowledged,” Mr. Butler said.

A Shift Toward Addressing Women’s Health Needs

Assistant Health Minister Ged Kearney described the package as an effort to “shift the dial on an entrenched culture of medical misogyny.”

The opposition welcomed the initiative, with health spokeswoman Anne Ruston pledging that the Coalition would match the funding. However, she also expressed concern about the increasing diffculty and cost for Australian women to access primary care.

The Australian Medical Association highlighted funding for long-term contraceptives and the expansion of clinics to support menopause and perimenopause as key steps in addressing the health needs of Australian women.

What’s the Solution? Loneliness in Aged Care:

JEFF GIBBS

A new initiative to tackle loneliness among older Australians is being pioneered by Silverchain and Federation University Australia. With research showing that 28% of older people in high-income countries like Australia experience loneliness, the partnership aims to develop practical, evidence-based solutions to improve the quality of life for those in in-home aged care.

A PhD candidate, co-supervised by researchers from Federation University and Silverchain, will lead the project, working closely with practitioners and older Australians to explore and implement scalable interventions.

The research will be embedded within Silverchain and focus on delivering realworld outcomes for aged care clients.

Loneliness: A Growing Public Health Concern

Adjunct Professor Tanya Davison, Silverchain’s Director of Research Discovery, described loneliness as an epidemic and a major public health risk.

already invested in innovative support programs like Enhanced Management of Home-Based Elders with Depression, which aims to reduce symptoms of depression in older Australians receiving care at home. The new PhD project, funded by the Silverchain Foundation, builds on this work and represents an exciting opportunity to combine academic excellence with practical innovation.

Developing Scalable Solutions Federation University’s Distinguished Professor Colette Browning said that while general awareness of loneliness is increasing, the specifc needs of inhome aged care clients have been overlooked in policymaking.

“It is crucial to explore innovative strategies to mitigate loneliness and enhance mental health in this population,” Prof. Browning said. “This partnership allows us to develop evidence-based interventions that can be widely implemented across the aged care system.”

“While this analysis from PLOS One focuses on older adults in general, risk factors for loneliness—such as partner loss, limited social networks, poor perceived health, and depressed mood—are often heightened among people receiving inhome aged care,” Prof. Davison said. “This underscores the need for targeted research and intervention for this vulnerable group.” Silverchain has

The project will include a series of studies to explore the experience of loneliness among in-home aged care clients, with the goal of developing scalable solutions that can enhance mental health and wellbeing across the sector.

By combining academic research and practical interventions, the partnership between Silverchain and Federation University aims to set a new standard in addressing one of the most pressing challenges in aged care.

Swiss Couple Sets World Record for the Longest Road Trip in a Single Vehicle

For nearly four decades, Swiss couple Emil and Liliana Schmid have been on the road, setting a Guinness World Record for the longest continuous journey by a couple in a single vehicle. Since October 1984, the duo has travelled over 740,000 kilometres across more than 180 countries, making theirs the most extensive road trip in recorded history.

The Journey Begins

What started as a oneyear adventure quickly turned into a lifelong pursuit of exploration.

The Schmids set off from their hometown in Switzerland in a Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60, originally planning a world tour before returning home. However, as the journey unfolded, their passion for travel only grew stronger. Instead of heading back, they extended their trip

indefnitely, embracing a nomadic lifestyle fuelled by curiosity and a love for new experiences. Their remarkable adventure has taken them across all seven continents, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the remote deserts of Namibia and the icy landscapes of Antarctica. Over the years, they have navigated diverse terrains, faced countless challenges, and amassed a lifetime of extraordinary memories.

A Car Built for the Long Haul

The vehicle at the heart of their journey is a 1982 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60, which has been their home, mode of transport, and most trusted companion throughout their travels. Despite covering an unprecedented distance, the Land Cruiser remains in operation, thanks to regular maintenance and meticulous care from the couple.

Over time, the vehicle has undergone necessary

repairs and modifcations to withstand the rigours of long-term travel. However, Emil and Liliana have remained loyal to their original car, believing that it is not just a machine but a symbol of their enduring adventure.

Challenges and Triumphs on the Road Traveling across the globe for nearly 40 years has not been without its diffculties. The couple has faced visa restrictions, unpredictable weather, mechanical breakdowns, and even political instability in some regions. Yet, their unwavering determination has seen them through countless obstacles.

One of their biggest challenges has been fnancing their ongoing journey. Unlike modern digital nomads, the Schmids set off without sponsorships, travel blogs, or social media presence. Instead, they have relied on careful

budgeting, occasional odd jobs, and the generosity of strangers they meet along the way. Their frugal lifestyle and ability to adapt to different circumstances have been key factors in sustaining their travels. Despite these hurdles, the couple remains undeterred. Their philosophy is simple: keep moving forward and embrace whatever comes next. With each new destination, they continue to experience the world in a way few others have.

A Life of Endless Discovery

For Emil and Liliana, the road itself has become their home. Over the years, they have experienced a breathtaking variety of cultures, cuisines, and traditions. They have forged friendships with people from all walks of life and gained a deep appreciation for the planet’s diversity. Their extensive travels have taken them to

iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall of China, the Amazon Rainforest, the Egyptian pyramids, and the vast Australian Outback. They have also explored lesser-known gems, including hidden villages in Central Asia, remote Pacifc islands, and uncharted landscapes few travellers ever reach. When asked about their favourite destinations, the couple insists that every place holds its own magic. Their love for the open road is not about ticking off countries but about immersing themselves in the endless beauty of the world.

The Record-Breaking Achievement

In recognition of their extraordinary achievement, Guinness World Records offcially acknowledged the Schmids for the longest continuous road trip by a couple in a single vehicle. With more than 740,000 kilometres covered and no signs of stopping, they continue to extend their record

with every passing day.

For many, the idea of a never-ending road trip might seem daunting, but for Emil and Liliana, it has become a way of life. Their story serves as an inspiration to travellers worldwide, proving that adventure knows no age limit and that the world remains an open road for those willing to explore it.

What’s Next?

After nearly 40 years of travel, the Schmids show no desire to settle down. Their goal remains unchanged: to keep exploring as long as they are able. Whether crossing new borders or revisiting old favourites, their passion for discovery remains as strong as ever.

While many dream of escaping routine for a life on the road, Emil and Liliana have turned that dream into their reality, proving that the adventure of a lifetime can last forever.

LIAM JENNINGS

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Max Crus is a Clarence Valley-based wine writer and Grape Expectations is now in its 29th year of publication. Find out more about Max or sign up for his weekly reviews and musings by visiting maxcrus.com.au

Everyone wins a prize after all.

Somewhere over the past 40 years someone in a very infuential position decided it would be a great idea to give every kid a trophy. This was intended to improve the self esteem of the slower runners, swimmers and high-jumpers, the ones who weren’t so good at maths, or science or the arts, or art itself.

Of course it just made the slow kids and the less academic embarrassed and

d’Arenberg Adelaide Hills ‘The Noble’ Mud Pie (Viognier, Arneis), 2015, $25 (back then). Rescued from the cellar after the great food of 2022, we possibly drank it just in time but would love to have another dozen to test it over the next ten years. Better than de Bortoli’s noble one, with similar characters, it is easy to forget just how good stickies can be. 9.8/10.

lowered their self-esteem even further, largely because they weren’t so slow that they didn’t understand that they were getting a prize for pretty much not getting a prize, like getting a birthday present when it wasn’t their birthday, which also happened along with everyone getting a prize in each layer of pass the parcel. Well, losers, suck it up, there is only one Max Crus Trophy and the rest of you

Again just for balance, here’s a bunch of other wines that scored really highly but never saw the light of publication:

Yalumba Wrattonbully FSW Botrytis Viognier 2023, $30. Bring back stickies I say. You can drink them straight, or with fruit or dessert or you can put them in cocktails. How versatile is that?

can just look on in awe and wonder, and see if you can do better next year.

This year, the eponymous trophy is awarded to the highest scoring wine because I am too lazy to contrive a better system, and realise that those occasions in the past when it was awarded for various reasons such as whatever we drank the most of during the year, or the least, were perhaps a tad unfair and

That beautiful character of sweet-bitter marmalade wins everyone over. 9.6/10.

Tamburlaine Organic Wines Orange Wine Region Reserve Syrah 2018, $60. Another precellared offering from one of the longest standing organic wine producers in the country, it belies it’s top-end-of-town alcohol content (14.8) with aplomb. Imagine how much it

open to corruption, however benefcial that was at the time, and, come to think of it, might be a good thing to go back to.

Unlike Triple J’s Hottest 100 which is also awarded on the nearest Saturday to Invasion Day, or National White Righteousness Day or whatever the right-wing anti-woke warriors wish to call it now, The Max Crus Trophy requires only one vote, mine. Bit like the

would cost in Scandanavia? 9.5/10.

Castagna Beechworth Classic Dry Vermouth Aperitif, (NV), $50. Speaking of negronis, the maker says this might be a bit too much for such a combination but having braved the experiment I disagree. But it’s not for the feint hearted, the delightful bitterness may not be everyone’s cup of

Chinese government, and America’s, although that’s really a du-archy now that Elon has a vote.

Anyway, from the fewest number of contenders in the trophy’s history since 1998, 478, refecting my adherence to health warnings and, well, actually because there were fewer deliveries, four wines achieved the highest mark in 2024, 9.8/10, so the winner was decided by a penalty shoot-out and eeny-meeny-

tea, although of course that’s bitter too, so maybe? 9.5/10.

Briar Ridge Hunter Valley ‘Briar Hill’ Chardonnay 2022, $50. I stop putting whites I the fridge the night we light the frst fre of winter, and this wine is part of the reason why. There are some many lovely things going on and you wouldn’t want to dull any of them.. 9.6/10.

miny-mo.

Actually all but one had appeared in the column already, so for self-esteem reasons, it got the gong. Yes, okay, it is an award for missing out.

The runners-up for 2024 are Taylors Clare Valley St Andrews Riesling 2020, Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley Vat 1 Semillon, 2018, and Nozawa Onsen Distillery Gin. Which leaves the winner… drum roll…

Knappstein Clare Valley Riesling 2022, $25. A delicious full-bodied and roundly characterful, quintessentially Clare riesling which is often discounted in the big stores making it one of the best value wines on the shelf. But don’t tell anyone, lest that changes. 9.5/10.

Max Crus

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

From simple meals to show-stopping feasts, there’s something for everyone.

EASY SHEPHERD’S PIE POTATO BAKE

15m prep 35m cook serves 4

INGREDIENTS

• 4 (about 800g) brushed potatoes, peeled

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 brown onion, fnely chopped

• 1 carrot, peeled, fnely chopped

• 2 celery sticks, trimmed, fnely chopped

• 500g lamb mince

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 tbsp Tomato Paste

• 200ml pkt Beef Gravy

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 65g (3/4 cup) coarsely grated Cheddar Cheese

METHOD

1. Cook potatoes in a large saucepan of boiling water for 20 minutes or until tender when tested with a skewer. Drain. Set aside until cool enough to handle. Peel and thickly slice.

2. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrot and celery and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until softened. Add lamb mince and cook, breaking up any lumps with a wooden spoon, for 5 minutes or until the lamb changes colour. Add garlic and tomato paste, and cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes or until paste starts to change colour.

3. Add gravy and Worcestershire sauce to the lamb mixture and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly. Season. Transfer to an 18 x 22cm (base size) ovenproof dish.

4. Preheat an oven grill on high. Top lamb mixture with the potato slices, slightly overlapping. Sprinkle with cheese. Grill for 5-8 minutes or until the cheese is golden. Serve..

THAI GREEN CURRY CHICKEN RISSOLES

PORTUGUESESTYLE CHORIZO PASTA SALAD

INGREDIENTS

• 300g Penne pasta

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 chorizo sausages, thinly sliced

• 200g haloumi, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup (75g) sriracha mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup (60g) Sour Cream

• 350g pkt Kaleslaw Salad Kit, salad mix only

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced crossways

• 2 tbsp chopped oregano

METHOD

1. Cook the pasta in a large saucepan of boiling water for 12 mins or until al dente. Refresh under cold water. Drain well. Transfer to a large bowl.

2. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo and cook, stirring, for 3 mins or until browned. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towel. Add the haloumi to the pan. Cook for 1 min each side or until golden and heated through.

3. Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream and 2 tbs warm water in a small jug until well combined. Add the salad mix, onion, chorizo, haloumi and oregano to pasta in the bowl. Toss to combine.

4. Transfer pasta mixture to a serving platter. Drizzle with the mayonnaise mixture and season to serve.

20m prep 10m cook serves 4

INGREDIENTS

• 500g chicken mince

• 100g green beans, thinly sliced

• 2 green shallots, fnely chopped

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh coriander leaves

• 50g pkt Green Curry Paste

• 1 egg

• 120g (1 cup) Bread Crumbs

• 125ml (1/2 cup) vegetable oil

• 120g pkt 4 Leaf Salad Mix

• 1 Lebanese cucumber, coarsely chopped

• Lime wedges, to serve

METHOD

1. Place chicken mince, beans, shallot, coriander, curry paste, egg and half the breadcrumbs in a bowl. Season. Mix until well combined. Shape into 8 patties.

2. Place remaining breadcrumbs on a plate. One at a time, roll the patties into the breadcrumbs, pressing frmly to coat. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden. Drain on a plate lined with paper towel.

3. Divide rissoles, salad mix and cucumber among serving plates. Serve with lime wedges alongside.

The History of Gardening

Gardens have played a signifcant role in human civilisation for thousands of years, evolving from simple plots for survival to intricate landscapes designed for beauty, power, and ecological balance. Throughout history, gardens have refected cultural shifts, technological advancements, and even spiritual beliefs. Here’s a look at how gardening has transformed across the ages.

Prehistoric Beginnings (~10,000 BCE)

The earliest gardens were rather small cultivated areas where early humans grew edible plants close to their settlements. These were likely extensions of natural foraging practices, marking the beginning of agriculture. The Fertile Crescent, spanning modern-day Iraq, Syria, and Turkey, was among the frst regions where humans intentionally grew wheat, barley, and legumes.

Persian Paradise Gardens (~500 BCE)

The Persians introduced the concept of the “paradise garden,” enclosed spaces with water channels and symmetrical plantings that represented harmony and balance. These gardens heavily infuenced Islamic and Mughal garden designs, which spread throughout the Middle East and South Asia.

Medieval Monastic Gardens (~500–1500 CE)

During the Middle Ages, European monasteries cultivated extensive gardens for both sustenance and medicinal purposes. These included cloister gardens for refection, herb gardens for medicine, and orchards for fruit production. The structure of these gardens laid the groundwork for modern botanical gardens.

Japanese Zen Gardens (~1300–Present)

Japan developed a distinctive gardening style, focusing on minimalism and symbolism. Zen rock gardens (karesansui) used sand and stones to represent mountains and rivers, while tea gardens (roji) were designed to create a meditative atmosphere. These principles continue to infuence modern landscape design.

Mesopotamian Gardens (~3000 BCE)

In ancient Mesopotamia, early forms of irrigation allowed gardens to fourish beyond mere subsistence. The Sumerians developed organized plots for growing food, herbs, and medicinal plants. The signifcance of gardens extended to religious sites, where temple gardens were cultivated with fruit trees and fowers to honour deities.

Roman Villa Gardens (~100 BCE - 400 CE)

Gardening took on a new form in ancient Rome, where villa gardens became symbols of wealth. The Romans adopted and expanded Greek gardening traditions, incorporating fountains, sculptures, and neatly trimmed hedges. They also developed kitchen gardens, known as hortus gardens, where herbs and vegetables were grown for daily use.

Islamic and Moorish Gardens (~700–1500 CE)

Islamic gardens fourished in hot climates, incorporating shaded walkways, fountains, and lush greenery to create a cooling effect. The quadripartite (Chahar Bagh) design, divided into four sections by water channels, symbolised paradise. Famous examples include the gardens of the Alhambra in Spain, which blended Islamic and Mediterranean infuences.

Colonial and Botanical Gardens (1700s–1800s)

As European empires expanded, so did their fascination with exotic plants. Botanical gardens were established worldwide, both for scientifc study and to showcase the wealth of colonising nations. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, founded in 1759, became a global centre for plant research and conservation.

Egyptian Temple and Palace Gardens (~2000 BCE)

The Egyptians elevated gardening to an art form. Tomb paintings from this period depict lush, symmetrical gardens with lotus ponds, date palms, and colourful fowers. These gardens, often enclosed, were created for the elite, offering both aesthetic pleasure and a space for spiritual retreat. They also pioneered early irrigation techniques that infuenced later civilisations.

Chinese Scholar Gardens (~400 CE)

Unlike the symmetry-focused gardens of Rome and Persia, Chinese scholar gardens were designed to mimic natural landscapes. They featured carefully arranged rocks, water features, and pathways to create a harmonious balance with nature. These gardens refected Taoist and Confucian principles, emphasising contemplation and simplicity.

Renaissance and Baroque Gardens (~1400–1700 CE)

The Renaissance brought a revival of classical gardening principles, particularly in Italy, where grand gardens like those at Villa d’Este were designed with terraces, statues, and intricate water features. The French Baroque style, epitomised by the gardens of Versailles, emphasised grandeur, order, and control over nature.

Victorian Gardens and Public Parks (1800s–1900s)

The Victorian era saw a surge in ornamental gardening, with an emphasis on elaborate fowerbeds, greenhouses, and glass conservatories. Public parks, such as Central Park in New York, were designed to provide green spaces in rapidly industrializing cities, promoting health and leisure among urban populations.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX CASINO 12/02/2025

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange recorded a strong sale day on February 12, 2025, with 917 lots sold, totalling $943,354.54 in sales. Steers and bullocks dominated the market, with steers reaching a high of 412.2 c/kg, while bullocks averaged 322.6 c/kg.

Cows made up the largest volume, with 135 sold, contributing $330,790.14 to total sales. Vealer bulls and heifers performed well, with vealers averaging 292.2 c/kg, refecting steady demand for young cattle.

Despite limited numbers, cows & calves and heifers saw competitive prices, with cows & calves selling for $1,425 per head.

The overall market remained strong, with an average price per head of $1,028.74. The results indicate continued demand for quality prime cattle, particularly in the steer and bullock categories. Statistics By Stock Type

LISMORE

OFF THE RAILS - LISMORE SALEYARDS 13/02/2025

1,300 steers and heifers were sold at the Lismore Saleyards on Thursday 13th February 2025. It was a very good yarding of 180 feeder steers, 620 yearling/weaner steers, 480 heifers and handful of bull calves. Feeder steers with milk or 2 teeth sold from $3.20 to

WARWICK

WARWICK & DISTRICT LIVESTOCK MARKETS

– WEEK ENDING 14/02/2025

Numbers were on a par this week for both ovine and bovine selections , with the markets easing across the board for most descriptions. The only exception was for quality fresh forward stock and the heavier, fnished types. Cattle numbers remained around the previous week , with the Sheep and lamb numbers rising. Pork was still keenly sought as well as the poultry section.

• Bulls av 290.7c/kg topping at 344.2c/kg or $1207.16 to $2538.00

• Cows av 261.83c/kg topping at 293.2c/kg or $1415.56 to $2140.08

• Feeder heifers av 306.c/kg topping at 382.2c/kg or $1075.02 to $1436.12

• Feeder steers av 357.3c/kg topping at 388.2c/kg or $1482.10 to $1940.21

• Heifers av 305.2c/kg topping at 400c/kg or $1556.41 to $2080.00

• Steers av 326.7c/kg topping at 422.2c/kg or $1913.90 to $2349.80

• Vealer heifers av 318.8c/kg topping at 380c/kg or $788.09 to $1050.43

• Vealer heifers av 356.4c/kg topping at 424.2c/kg or $872.06 to $1236.60

• Yearling heifers av 329c/kg topping at 402.2c/kg or $1108.23 to $1985.55

• Yearling steers av 351.56c/kg topping at 414.2c/kg or $1179.51 to $1951.60

Per: Kg

Report Prepared At 12:47 Wednesday, February 12, 2025 By MS At Workstation OUTCROSSOFFICE2

$3.46 per kilo. Older steers sold from $2.70 to $3.15 per kilo. Kay Gibbs Hereford bullock sold for $2.98 per kilo for a return of $2,042. Yearling and weaner steers sold to good competition with most fnding new homes in Southern Queensland or the Tablelands. Good lines of Charolais and Angus steers sold at premium rates of $4.10 to $4.46 per kilo for returns of $1,050 to $1,342. Brangus and crossbred steers ranged from $3.60 to $4.15 per kilo. Lines of F1, Hereford and Brahman steers were popular with buyers paying $3.80 to $4.48 per kilo for steers weighing 190 to

The yarding of 1018 head av $1261.26/ head Sheep & Lamb numbers rose to 2958 head to a market following the cattle trend of fresh, fnished articles frm whilst the lighter types were back in value.

• Lambs topped at $210 to av $121.48 ($7/head up )

• Hoggets topped at $142 to av $103.29 ($39/head up )

• Ewes topped at $137 to av $67.70 ($12/head up )

• Wethers topped at $130 to av $76.21 ($9/head down )

• Ram Lambs topped at $210 to av $96.59 (Even )

• Rams topped at $70 to av $44.14 ($27/head down)

• The total yarding av $97.19 ($7/head up ) Boars sold from $170 to $215, Sows sold from $60 to $285, Baconers sold to $235, Stores sold from $82 to $194. The numbers were down for most sections , with keen competition for stock available. Hens sol to $42.50, Roosters to $17.50, Laying hens to $17.50, Pullets to $27.50, Peacocks sold to $25, groups of Guinea Fowl sold to $37.50, chicks to $55, Ducklings to $12.50

APL/ MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

Agents and vendors combined to present 2958 head to the local market. The stock was drawn from near and far from the South West , Roma , New England, Traprock and local vendors. The yarding was approximately a 60/40 split between Lamb and Mutton categories. The buying panel was back to full strength will all usual buyers looking to compete. There was a lighter yarding in condition and fnish for a higher percentage of the yarding. This led to most categories falling in value dollar wise. Lambs toped at $210 to av $121.48 ($7/up), Hoggets

220 kg, with returns of $790 to $990.

In the heifer section a few lines of good quality F1 weaners topped the day at $4.40 to $5.15 per kilo for returns of $981 to $1,272. Most Euro heifers sold from $3.20 to $3.58 per kilo for returns of $700 to $865. Angus heifers sold in the $2.70 to $3.10 per kilo range and cross bred heifers $2.40 to $3.10 per kilo, depending on quality. The next Special weaner sale is to be held in Lismore on Thursday 13th March.

Don’t forget the next meatworks and weaner sale will be this coming Tuesday 18th February from 7.30am.

topped at $142 to av $103.29 ($39/up), Ewes topped at $137 to av $67.70 ($12/up), Wethers topped at $130 to av $76.21 ($9/down), Ram lambs topped at $210 to av $96.59 ($par ), Rams topped at $70 to av $44.14 ($27/ down). The total yarding av $97.19/head a rise of $7/head week on week.

• Ashby Past Co sold Dorper lambs 45.5kg to Mc Mahon Bros for $149, 38.8kg to GR Prime for $98

• Keith Cobon sold Dorset lambs 55kg to Thomas Foods for $189, 45.2 and 48.8kg to restockers for $102 and $115

• Cooinda P/S sold Dorper hoggets 52kg to Eversons for $130, Merino wethers to Thomas Foods for $42 and Eversons for $15

• Dalby State High sold Texcel ewes to restockers for $100

• Jack & Norma Dwan sold Dorper lambs 47.8kg to GR Prime for $169

• Andrew & Helen Ferrier sold Dorper maiden ewes to restockers for $130 and Fletchers for $112

• Paul Horner sold Suffolk ewes to Fletchers for $100, 52.8kg lambs to Eversons for $130, 40kg to Eversons for $75

• Hutchings Family sold Dorper lambs 39.3kg to Shelley F/T for $94

• Parnell Family sold A/White hoggets 50.8kg to Eversons for $110, 43.5kg to Eversons for $85

• Martin Roberts sold 55kg Dorper x lambs to Thomas Foods for $199, 53kg to Warwick Meats for $182, 51.5kg to Warwick Meats for $185, 48kg to GR Prime for $147, 47.5kg to Eversons for $144, 59kg hoggets to Eversons for $125, 58kg to Eversons for $130

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

BEAUDESERT

15/02/2025 - DROUGHTMASTER STEERS HIT $1790 AT ALL RED SHOW & SALE

Agents Bartholomew & Co reported an outstanding yarding at their 20th Annual Beaudesert All Red Show & Sale on Saturday. Pen after pen of heavy feeder steers came to hand and sold well in line with the current market. Quality lines of restocker steers and replacement heifers sold to an enthusiastic panel of buyers. Marula Farms Trust, Mt Barney, sold Droughtmaster steers 2½ years for $1790. An excellent run of 2-year-old Droughtmaster steers account Hills Family Pty Ltd, Chinghee Creek, sold to a top of $1780. Amanda Ilka, Chinghee Creek, sold Droughtmaster steers 2 years for $1680. Santa x steers from Brett and Sarah Brasington, Maroon, sold for $1730. Pam Moriarity, Canungra, sold Santa x steers 20 months for $1640. Simto Droughtmasters, Lamington, sold Droughtmaster steers 15 months for $1480. Santa steers 15 months account Yawarra Pty Ltd, Nindooinbah, sold for $1480. JD Grazing, Boonah, sold Santa steers 15 months for $1460. Santa steers 15 months account Glenn and Janelle Cahill, Christmas Creek, sold for $1410. Santa Hereford x steers account Coopers Constructions Biddaddaba, sold for $1400. Liz Evans and John Rowling, Hattonvale, sold Droughtmaster steers 15 months for $1400. Droughtmaster steers account Todd Finch, Canungra, sold for $1350. Santa weaner steers account Trevor and Sue Whitehall, Mt Berryman, sold for $1190. The Kleinschmidt Family, Maudsland, sold Santa weaner steers for $1190. Mark and Vickee Binstead, Palen Creek, sold Santa weaner steers for $1100. Droughtmaster steers 12 months account Michael and Cheryl Fraser, Mundoolun, sold for $1090. Droughtmaster weaner steers account Greg and Michael Wilkie, Beaudesert, sold for $960. Glenn and Janelle

Cahill, sold Santa heifers 15 months for $1320. Liz Evans and John Rowling sold Droughtmaster heifers 14 months for $990. Droughtmaster heifers 15 months account Jarryd Janke, Rockside, sold for $930. Santa heifers 12 months account Klemley Park, Benobble, sold for $1010. The Kleinschmidt Family sold Santa weaner heifers for $900. Droughtmaster heifers 12 months account Phil and Michelle Day, Ferny Glen sold for $810. Produce to be Proud of, Innisplain sold Droughtmaster heifers 12 months for $780.

The next Beaudesert Store Sale will be held this Saturday 22nd February, commencing at 9:30am.

RESULTS

Pen of Steers Suitable for Future Export

1st: Hills Family Pty Ltd

2nd: Hills Family Pty Ltd

Pen of Steers Suitable for Future Trade

1st: JD Grazing

2nd: AC & CL Ludwig

Pen of Weaner Steers

1st: TD & SM Whitehall

2nd: C & MJ Kleinschmidt & Capaja

Pen of Females Suitable for Breeding

1st: GS & JM Cahill

2nd: PJ & M Day

Pen of Heifers Suitable for Feed-on

1st: GS & JM Cahill

2nd: PJ & M Day

Pen of Weaner Heifers

1st: Klemley Pty Ltd

2nd: Produce to be Proud of Best Pen of Droughtmaster Cattle

Hills Family Pty Ltd – Export Steers

Best Pen of Santa Gertrudis Cattle

TD & SM Whitehall – Weaner Steers

Champion Pen of the Show

TD & SM Whitehall – Weaner Steers

Marquis Group Delivers for Growers as 2024 Season Closes with Strong Sales

IAN ROGERS

The Marquis Group has wrapped up the 2024 harvest season on a high note, with empty warehouses and recordbreaking sales, signaling another successful year for the company and its growers. The Notional Price rose signifcantly from $1.80/kg in 2023 to $3.20/kg in 2024, bringing substantial returns to suppliers.

This year’s harvest intake reached 19,350 tonnes of Nut-In-Shell (NIS) at 10% Moisture Content, surpassing the 18,964 tonnes collected in the previous season. Marquis also sold over 5,100 tonnes of macadamia kernels and 4,500 tonnes of highquality NIS to its global and domestic customers, reinforcing its market leadership and industry strength.

$8.5 Million in Bonus Payments and Dividends for Shareholders

The Group continues to focus on rewarding

its growers and shareholders. Over the past year, Marquis has returned more than $8.5 million through bonus payments and dividends to its shareholder suppliers, refecting its commitment to maximizing returns.

Ben Adams, CEO of Marquis Macadamias, credited the company’s success to strategic market positioning, strong customer relationships, and growing global demand.

“The selling year began with some uncertainty, but thanks to our solid market position and customer trust in our high-quality products,

we were able to sell out of both NIS and kernel,” Mr. Adams said. “This outcome highlights the strength of the macadamia industry and the dedication of our valued growers and customers.”

In December 2024, the company accelerated payments, ensuring growers received full Notional Price payments ahead of schedule. By early February, Marquis announced a Shareholder NIS Bonus Payment of $0.20/kg, bringing the fnal 2024 price to $3.40/ kg at 33% SKR.

“This increase refects our ongoing commitment to rewarding

shareholders who entrusted us with their 2024 crop deliveries,” Mr. Adams said.

Positive Outlook for 2025

With positive market signs and a strengthening USD, Mr. Adams expressed optimism for 2025, hinting at further improvements in farm gate prices.

“All indications point toward a reasonable improvement in the 2025 Notional Price,” he said. “We’re seeing encouraging demand growth, with many major customers requesting early deliveries and additional quantities for their 2024 contracts,

indicating low inventory across the supply chain.”

Marquis anticipates demand will remain strong throughout 2025, positioning the company for another successful season.

Global Expansion and New Markets

Throughout 2024/25, Marquis expanded its global presence by entering new markets and solidifying existing relationships. A key milestone was entering the Indian market, a signifcant step in the company’s international expansion strategy.

Additionally, Marquis reinforced its relationships with long-

term customers, securing stable supply agreements and boosting demand growth.

“We have appointed a new International Sales Manager to service our growing customer base and a Business Development Manager to help customers maximize the value of our kernel products,” Mr. Adams said.

Market Resilience and Future Growth

Mr. Adams praised the resilience of the macadamia market and the commitment of Marquis growers and shareholders as key factors in the company’s success.

“It is the collective support of all our growers that allows Marquis to market the largest volume of Australian-produced and processed kernel,” he said. “Supporting and servicing our customers remains critical to our success.”

For more information on becoming a Marquis supplier, visit www. marquis.com.

NSW Regional Airports Set for Major Upgrades Under

$12 Million Funding Boost

The Albanese Labor Government is investing almost $12 million to upgrade regional airports across New South Wales, ensuring vital improvements that enhance safety, capacity, and accessibility for communities across the state.

Under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Program, the funding will support runway resurfacing, fencing, lighting, drainage upgrades, and other essential works. These upgrades are critical to maintaining regional airports as lifelines for emergency healthcare, tourism, commerce, and education.

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional

Development and Local Government Catherine King highlighted the importance of investing in regional aviation.

“Upgrades like these aren’t just improvements—they’re the difference between regional residents getting medical help, frefghters accessing communities during emergencies, and economies growing through tourism,”

Minister King said.

“We want our regions connected to loved ones, healthcare, and opportunity.”

Key Airport Upgrades Across NSW

• Merimbula Airport (Bega Valley Shire Council) – $3.8 million for stage two of the runway extension, adding 80 metres of pavement at both ends to create a 1,800-metre take-off length. This will

allow larger aircraft, including narrow-bodied passenger planes, frefghting tankers, and military transports, to operate at Merimbula, boosting emergency response capabilities and tourism.

• Moruya Airport (Eurobodalla Shire Council) – $200,000+ to reseal the runway, taxiways, and apron pavement, along with replacing apron lighting to ensure continued safe operations. This will support night and low-visibility operations for emergency services like the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) and aerial frefghting teams, as well as regular passenger services.

• Albury Airport (Albury City Council)

– $5 million for a full runway overlay to improve safety and

strengthen the surface for larger aircraft, especially during bushfre season when emergency services are critical.

• Moree Regional Airport (Moree Plains Shire Council) – $1 million to upgrade the aeromedical apron, taxiway, and parking bays, creating a 24-hour aeromedical facility to support urgent medical services.

• Griffth Regional Airport (Griffth City Council) – $500,000 to replace aging runway lights, ensuring safety and continuous operations, particularly for RFDS and NSW Air Ambulance services.

• Mudgee Regional Airport (Mid-Western Regional Council) –$220,000 for stormwater drainage improvements to prevent prolonged closures due to

fooding, which has disrupted passenger and emergency medical fights in the past.

Strengthening Regional Communities Federal Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain emphasized the importance of the Merimbula Airport upgrades in improving disaster response and boosting local connectivity.

“This upgrade will support larger frefghting aircraft when we need them most and improve safety for in-fight emergency recoveries,”

Ms. McBain said. “It also ensures Merimbula Airport remains a key hub for local businesses and tourism, while keeping our community connected.”

Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips welcomed the

improvements at Moruya Airport, calling it a lifeline for the region.

“Moruya Airport supports our economy, helps farmers get produce to markets, and allows locals to access vital services,”

Ms. Phillips said. “This investment will create jobs and strengthen our connections across Australia.”

Building on Previous Success

Today’s announcement builds on the $100 million already delivered under the frst three rounds of the Regional Airports Program, which supported 194 projects across Australia.

For a full list of Round 4 projects, visit the Regional Airports Program website at: www.infrastructure. gov.au.

IAN ROGERS

IAN ROGERS

Food Regulators Accused of Price Gouging and Failing Growers

The NFF Horticulture Council has taken direct aim at national food regulators, accusing them of unjustifed red tape and revenue-raising tactics that are driving up food prices and punishing growers. The Council is demanding an independent review of the Food Ministers’ Meeting, calling into question its competence, accountability, and role in creating new food safety standards for fresh berries, leafy vegetables, and melons.

In a scathing letter to Commonwealth, state, and territory representatives, Council Chair Jolyon Burnett slammed the process, describing it as fawed from the outset and plagued by mismanagement and self-interest.

“This process has had a stink to it from day one,” Mr. Burnett said. “The Food Ministers’ Meeting launched this without industry consultation—in

direct breach of its own rules. Now states are exploiting these new standards to rake in more revenue at the expense of growers and consumers.”

“Brazen Revenue Raising”

The Primary Production and Processing (PPP) standards, developed by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), were supposed to streamline food safety and traceability across the supply chain. Instead, Mr. Burnett says, states and territories have gone rogue, implementing additional layers of red tape that don’t improve food safety but fatten government wallets.

“This isn’t about protecting public health; it’s about opportunistic cash grabs,” he said. “We’ve seen states depart from the agreed model, burdening growers with unnecessary compliance just to create new streams of revenue for themselves.”

With food prices already soaring, Mr.

Burnett warned that these regulations would push costs even higher, making it harder for Australian families to put fresh produce on the table.

Systemic Failure and Lack of Accountability

At the core of the problem, according to Mr. Burnett, is the Food Ministers’ Meeting, which he accuses of being unft for its role.

“The Food Ministers’ Meeting is supposed to be the umpire between stakeholders. Instead, it’s acting as both judge, jury, and executioner,

creating regulations and then enforcing them with zero transparency or independent oversight,” he said. “It’s failing on every front—a complete dereliction of duty.”

The Council is calling for a comprehensive, independent review into the body’s performance, specifcally regarding its role in implementing the new standards for fresh produce.

States Unprepared, Growers Penalised Adding insult to injury, several states have failed to pass the necessary legislation to enforce the

new standards—despite having two and a half years to prepare.

“Most states aren’t ready, yet growers will still be expected to comply,” Mr. Burnett said. “We’re demanding a 12-month extension for any jurisdiction that hasn’t got its act together. This mess should not be the growers’ problem, and consumers should not have to pay the price for government incompetence.”

Align with Global Benchmarks or Risk Collapse

The Council is also calling for national consistency and mutual recognition of voluntary food safety standards that already meet global benchmarks, warning that anything less will push small growers out of business.

“If these states can’t get on the same page, they’ll destroy the very industry they claim to protect,” Mr. Burnett said. “Every layer of bureaucracy added to the supply chain just raises costs and threatens the survival of countless Australian growers.”

With consumers facing a cost-of-living crisis, Mr. Burnett made it clear that the NFF Horticulture Council won’t back down.

“This is about power, proft, and politics—not food safety,” he said. “We won’t stand by while regulators play games with livelihoods and force Australians to pay more for food in the middle of a national affordability crisis.”

Rural Students from Narromine High Selected for Oncein-a-Lifetime Excursion to Sydney Royal Easter Show

IAN ROGERS

Narromine High School students have been chosen as the 2025 recipients of the Royal Agricultural Society (RAS) of NSW Youth Group’s All Roads to the Royal program, a prestigious initiative providing a unique opportunity to attend the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

The four-day excursion, held from Monday, 14 April to Thursday, 17 April, will include exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, networking sessions with industry leaders, and a comprehensive educational experience to inspire a passion for agriculture. Up to 40 students and teachers will participate, with return transport, accommodation at St

Joseph’s College in Hunters Hill, and meals included.

Now in its sixth year, the All Roads to the Royal program aims to remove barriers for socioeconomically and geographically isolated students, offering syllabus-based educational experiences

that promote careers in agriculture and related industries.

Chair of the RAS Youth Group, Sarah Stanbury, expressed her excitement in welcoming Narromine High students:

“It is incredibly rewarding to share the magic of the Show with

schools that might not have the opportunity to attend. The students have shown a strong interest in agriculture, and we hope this experience broadens their horizons and opens doors to vast opportunities within the agricultural sector.”

Narromine High’s

Agricultural Show Team, which has grown from 7 to 30 members, will be attending the Show. The team regularly competes at the Narromine and Dubbo Agricultural Shows in sheep and poultry events.

Agricultural teacher Corina Wykes shared

her students’ excitement about the trip:

“Many of our students have never attended the Sydney Royal Easter Show due to living so far away. This experience will be life-changing, offering both agricultural insights and exposure to a wider world.”

The program also aims to introduce students to potential career paths in agriculture, hospitality, event planning, and marketing, helping them explore a range of future opportunities.

Designed and delivered by the RAS Youth Group, made up of young professionals aged 18 to 35, the All Roads to the Royal program is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of agriculturalists and nurturing the future of rural NSW.

Council Chair Jolyon Burnett

NSW Government’s Tough Stance on Fire Ants Pays Off – Crackdown on Rogue Businesses Results in Major Fines

ROBERT HEYWARD

The Minns Labor Government’s commitment to protecting NSW from the devastating impact of red imported fre ants is delivering real results. Two Queensland businesses have been convicted and fned a total of $60,000 for breaching biosecurity laws aimed at keeping fre ants out of the state. This victory highlights the effectiveness of the government’s increased surveillance, compliance, and enforcement measures.

biosecurity certifcates.

• Marlyn Compost was convicted of 20 offences for illegally moving turf without certifcation.

To strengthen the fght against fre ants, NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty introduced a complete ban on turf movement from Queensland’s infested zones in November 2024. This tough approach is helping keep the threat at bay while sending a strong message

for failing to meet certifcation standards.

• 8 penalty notices issued and 3 warnings.

In addition, fre ant sniffer dogs have been deployed in Kyogle and Tweed Valley to monitor trucks and landscaping sites, while border checkpoints use CCTV and Police cooperation to prevent illegal movements.

Ongoing Surveillance and Community Involvement

from businesses.

• 1,613 surveillance operations conducted across the state.

A Clear Message from Minister Tara Moriarty

Since being elected in 2023, the Minns Labor Government has prioritized biosecurity, increasing funding to fght fre ants from $15 million annually to $95 million over four years. This bold action is aimed at ensuring NSW communities, homes, farms, and natural landscapes remain safe from this invasive species.

Major Recent Prosecutions:

• Brytarbri Pty Ltd (Allenview Turf) was convicted of nine offences for moving soil, turf underlay, and compost from the Queensland fre ant-infested area into NSW without required

to rogue businesses.

Operation Victa –Keeping NSW Safe

The Government’s border enforcement initiative, Operation Victa, is a prime example of how coordinated efforts are stopping fre ants before they spread. So far, the operation has conducted four waves of inspections, resulting in:

• 352 vehicles stopped, with 156 from fre ant-infested areas.

• 12 vehicles turned back to Queensland

The Minns Labor Government has launched an extensive surveillance program that relies on cuttingedge technology and community reporting to detect any potential threats. Since December 2023, the fre ant team has achieved the following:

• 1,366 voluntary community reports checked for potential fre ant sightings.

• 12,750 Record of Movement declarations

“The Minns Labor Government is serious about stopping fre ants from entering NSW. There will be no tolerance for businesses that fout our biosecurity controls and threaten our state’s homes, farms, and natural landscapes. The full force of the law will be applied to anyone who compromises the safety of our communities.

“We’re using monitoring, CCTV, police support, sniffer dogs, and border checks to prevent the spread of fre ants. I urge everyone to comply with biosecurity requirements or report those who aren’t. Together, we can protect NSW from this menace.”

The Minns Labor Government remains committed to working with the Queensland Government to eradicate the fre ant infestation, ensuring regional NSW remains protected, connected, and thriving.

For more information on biosecurity regulations and fre ant control, visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries website.

Farmers Celebrate Victory as Biosecurity Protection Levy is Scrapped

IAN ROGERS

Farmers across Australia are rejoicing following Federal Parliament’s decision to scrap the Biosecurity Protection Levy, bringing relief to the agricultural sector. The move is seen as a signifcant win for farmers who had fercely opposed the tax, arguing that it was unfair and placed an unnecessary fnancial burden on primary producers.

National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) President David Jochinke

welcomed the decision and thanked Minister for Agriculture Julie Collins for listening to farmers’ concerns.

“This is a huge win for farmers,” said Mr. Jochinke. “The Minister and the Senate have listened – this tax was deeply fawed and unfair. We appreciate the Minister’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the sustainability of our biosecurity system.”

The NFF played a key role in lobbying against the levy, with farmers and industry stakeholders united

in their opposition.

Thousands of farmers voiced their concerns through petitions, consultations, and advocacy campaigns.

“Together, we put up a ferce fght, and we are relieved to close the book on this idea,” Mr. Jochinke added.

“Farmers already contribute signifcantly to biosecurity. We look forward to working with the Government on policies that strengthen our defence against pests and diseases without imposing additional costs on farmers.”

The decision to scrap the levy reinforces the importance of collaboration between the Government and the agricultural sector to protect the nation’s biosecurity without compromising the sustainability and proftability of farmers.

Farmers remain committed to working towards a robust biosecurity system, ensuring Australia continues to be safeguarded from the threat of pests and diseases while fostering growth in agriculture.

Death Notice

Maureen Noonan of East Ballina died peacefully at home (7/2/2025) surrounded by her Husband Terry, Children Kerrie and Mark, and their partners John and Megan and all of her five grandchildren Abbey, Kate, Tilly, Oliver and Ruby. Millie was also by her side.

Thank you to all our family and extended family, and friends for all the support.

Funeral Notice

In loving memory of Clive R. Stephens

A fabulous 91 years

Long time Casino resident who loved to play Bowls and attend the Casino Mens Shed.

Much loved father of Bruce, Russel and Wendy. Family and Friends are invited to a ‘Celebration of Life’

to be held in St Marks Anglican Church Hall Casino at 11am on the 25th of February.

Funeral Notice

GRAY, Leslie James ‘Les’

Late of Brooms Head. Dearly loved Husband of Flo (decd). Much loved Father and Father-in-law of Wayne (decd) and Tracey, Gayle and Owen, Glen and Debbie, Neil and Sally, Leanne (decd), and Owen and Margaret.

Treasured Grandpa and Great Grandpa to their families.

Passed away peacefully 15 February 2025

AGED 91 YEARS

FOREVER WITH HIS LORD

Relatives and friends of the late Les Gray are respectfully invited to attend the Service of anksgiving to be held at the Uniting Church, Church Street Maclean, Monday 24 February 2025, commencing at 11:00am.

Funeral Notice

Harley William Roberts born 29 January 1932, died suddenly of heart failure on Sunday 9 February at Barongarook Gardens Colac Victoria at the age of 93 years.

Loved husband of Mary Irene Fay Roberts (West) of Keerrong, brother and brother-in-law of June and Jack Blinkhorn (latter dec’d), Audrey and Fred Buckner, Ali Wall (dec’d) and Colin and Patricia (both dec’d).

Adored son of Florence and William Roberts (both dec’d) Loved father, father-in-law and grandfather of Bronwynne Roberts, John Calvert and Jack and Georgina Calvert, father and father-in-law of Allison and Stephen Arnott and grandfather of Alice and Mackenzie Arnott, father of Louise Ann Green and grandfather of Tom and Elizabeth Green, father-in-law of John Green.

Loved Uncle of Susan, Kim and Judith Blinkhorn and Harley Buckner, and their families. Loved brother-in-law and uncle of the extended family of Fay.

Loved and respected by his many work colleagues and friends through Neutral Bay Primary School, Naremburn High School, North Sydney Leagues Club, the Forestry Commission of NSW, the NSW Public Service Board, Alexander Mackie CAE, Sydney CAE, Sydney College of The Arts, UTS, University of Western Sydney, North Parramatta Residents Action Group, Carnarvon Golf Club, Surf Life Saving NSW and the Aboriginal Advancement League.

Thank you to the staff of Barongarook Gardens Colac for the wonderful care of Harley in the last months of his life, and to his carer Lorraine Tanian and to the Colac paramedic team of Ambulance Victoria.

Harley’s burial will take place at 11:30am on Tuesday 25th February at Rookwood General Cemetery. Please meet at the Rookwood General Cemetery offce, Hawthorne Avenue, Rookwood.

A Memorial to celebrate Harley‘s life will be held afterwards at 1pm at Carnarvon Golf Club, Lidcombe, Sydney followed by refreshments.

Please confrm your attendance by email to: bcalvert@irrewarra.com.au

This page is dedicated to all those that have passed

February 20, 2025 The Northern Rivers

Funeral Notice

Tribute In loving memory of Kevin William Gray OAM 01 Sept 1935 - 07 Feb 2025 Late of Alstonville.

Passed away peacefully on Friday 7th February 2025. Loving Husband of Valerie. Cherished Father and Father In Law of Geo rey & Tanya, Bronwyn. Devoted “Pop” of James and Milla. Loving Brother of Shirley and Nancy and their families. Will be sadly missed by all his relatives and friends.

Aged 89 Years “Forever Loved”

Relatives and friends are warmly invited to attend Kevin’s Funeral Service to be held at Alstonville Uniting Church, 14 Bugden Ave, Alstonville on ursday 20 February 2025 commencing at 11:00am.

FRNSW members are requested to attend in uniform and form a guard of honour.

(Full summer dress uniform including medals) At the conclusion of the Church ceremony, the funeral will proceed to the Alstonville Lawn Cemetery, Alstonville Cemetery Rd Alstonville.

Barry Irvine 20. 09. 1939 ~ 14. 02. 2025

Passed away a er a long battle with illness. Dearly loved husband of Valerie (dec) for 59 years. Cherished brother of Glenda, Noel, June and Cyril. Proud Uncle. Great companion and friend of Elizabeth Campbell. Friend to many.

Devoted Ambulance Paramedic. Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Barry’s life to be held at Rainbow Chapel, Rainbow Avenue, Ballina on THURSDAY (February 20, 2025) commencing at 2.00 pm. A er the service a private cremation will take place.

Funeral Notice

CRAIGS FLOAT HIRE

FORECAST

Warnings

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon. Light winds becoming easterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon. Light winds becoming easterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Light winds becoming east to northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. The chance of a storm. Winds

east to northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light during the morning then becoming east to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the afternoon.

New South Wales:

Isolated showers about the east, most likely along the coast. Dry and sunny elsewhere. Daytime temperatures below average. South to southeasterly winds.

Thursday. Isolated to scattered showers about the east, most likely on and east of the Divide. The chance of afternoon storms in the northeast. Sunny inland. Daytime temperatures below average. South to southeasterly winds, fresh near the coast.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Variable below 10 knots becoming easterly 10 to 15 knots during the day then tending northeasterly during the evening. Seas: Below 1 metre. 1st Swell: Southerly 2 to 2.5

metres, decreasing to 1.5 metres during the afternoon or evening. 2nd Swell: Easterly around 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: Variable below 10 knots becoming easterly 10 to 15 knots during the day then tending northeasterly during the evening. Seas: Below 1 metre. 1st Swell: Southerly 2 to 2.5 metres, decreasing to 1.5 metres during the afternoon or evening. 2nd Swell: Easterly around 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Gold Coast Waters:

Winds: Easterly 10 to 15 knots turning southeasterly 15 to 20 knots during the morning. Seas: Around 1 metre. 1st Swell: Southeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres inshore, increasing to 1.5 to 2.5 metres offshore. 2nd Swell: Northeast to southeasterly around 1 metre. Weather: Partly cloudy.

After threatening multiple times this season, Harwood has broken through for its frst outright win in the Clarence River Cricket Association frst grade completion at the expense of Tucabia Copmanhurst.

Harwood were bowled out for 179 on day one of the clash with Tucabia at Ulmarra Showground, but had the hosts reeling at 5-25 at stumps.

On Saturday they followed through, rolling them for 54, which would have been a lot less except for a freewheeling 24no from Brad Chard batting at number 9.

Coming in 7-27, Chard a six and three fours in 29 balls, while the other batters scored just three.

Ordered to follow on, Tucabia fared worse, succumbing for 40 scored in 29.4 overs with only Bohdi Henwood, 13, reaching double fgures.

Harwood opening bowler Troy Turner did the damage in Tucabia’s frst innings, taking 5-21 from 12 overs.

Corey Lewis gave a hint of what was to come taking 4-1 in eight overs to wrap up the tail.

In the second innings Lewis was unplayable taking 5-9 in 9.4 overs.

Ben McMahon was also in good form, snaring 3-16 from eight overs.

Harwood’s leading

bowler for the season legspinner Jacob McMahon was only required to bowl six overs for the game and went wicketless.

In a remarkable feat at Ellem Oval South Services/Westlawn were able to withstand a punishing century from leading all rounder Shannon Connor, 102, to snare a win over GDSC Easts.

Defending a modest

156 Souths knew the wicket of Connor, who was 58no, was key to their chances of success.

But he was forced to play a lone hand and when he fell caught and bowled by Scott Avard the score was 6-133 with 24 more required to win.

But the Easts tail couldn’t get it done and the fnal four wickets fell for fve runs.

Veteran seamer Nathan Blanch held his nerve

BALLINA

MAHJONG RESULTS – 14TH

FEBRUARY 2025

1. Susan Allan

2. Vanessa Reynolds

3. Jeanette Henwood

4. Gail McDonagh

5. Valda McLerie

6. Joy Lowien

7. Margaret Bryant

8. Linda Lloyd

9. Shirley Atkinson

10. Pauline Kearney

11. Lynda Lovett

12. Sally Lowry

13. Pauline Bolte

14. Kath Hubbard

15. Lisa Wong

16. Yvonne Weddup

17. Cindy Smith

18. Jan Small

19. Jane Fenech

20. Ramsay Roper

21. Barbara Ellan

22. Pam Farrell

23. Rosemary Russell

24. Coral Lavelle

Mahjong is played at the Ballina Bridge Club every Friday at 12:30 p.m. Interested players are welcome to join. For more information, please contact Shirley on 0423 384 647.

CASINO WOMEN’S BOWLS RESULTS –WEDNESDAY, 12TH

FEBRUARY 2025

The winners of the day were decided on the highest margin:

• Kay Jonsson, Maryanne Chandler & Ivy Watson def Carmel Doyle, Julie Creighton & Denise Skinner

Other Winning Rink:

• Jan Cooke, Tanya Maxwell & Mary Mead def Helen Lavelle, Marlene Jordan & Raelene Skirrey

Bowls is played every Wednesday at the Casino RSM Club, starting at 9:00 a.m. New players are always

during the Connor onslaught taking regular wickets with a stump to stump line.

His fgures of 5-74 in 19 overs unchanged kept Souths/Westlawn in the game and stopped Connor from establishing a partnership that could have turned the game. Avard picked up a couple of easier wickets to fnish with 3-11 from 3.4 overs and skipper Dylan Cleaver bowled

a long spell to take 2-51 from 13 overs.

Connor, who took seven wickets on day one, had a massive game, but did not get the support he needed to get a vital win for his team.

Sent back in for a second innings Souths Westlawn reached stumps at 1-67 scored in 24 overs, with opener Brenden Cotten not out on 47 including four boundaries and a six.

welcome to join this enjoyable sport.

CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB –SPORTS RESULTS

Association Croquet

Division 2 Singles

Club Championship:

• P. Waters 21 d G. Porter 11

Ricochet Croquet

• D. Scott & N. Poynting 13 d R. Chapman & R. Poynting 8

• J. Dorward & N. Watts 17 d P. Bolte & Bev Bill 11

• H. Young 14 d

Lawrence held off a tenacious bid from Coutts Crossing to chase down their frst innings total of 161 at Lower Fisher Turf.

The difference between the two teams was Ben Shaw, who took 7-30 from 13.5 overs to help dismiss Coutts for 123. Coutts frst drop Lewis Chevalley, 41, and opening bat Tim Tilse, 32, threatened for a while, but Shaw had Chevalley caught by skipper Nathan Ensbey and then took six more wickets as the Coutts resistance fell away.

With two games to play before the semi-fnals, the top three, Harwood, Souths/Westlawn and Lawrence look set, but Coutts is under threat in fourth spot, just a point ahead of Tucabia.

On Saturday leaders Harwood host Souths/ Westlawn at Harwood Oval, Tucabia and Coutts Crossing tussle at Lower Fisher Turf, Grafton and Lawrence and Easts meet at Ellem Oval.

In representative cricket CRCA will need Coffs Harbour at Ellem Oval, Grafton, on Sunday in the grand fnal of the North Coast Cricket inter district competition.

Selectors have chosen a team of Matt Dougherty (c), Beau Sevil, Shannon Connor, Tim Tilse, Lewis Chevalley, Rohan Hackett, Dylan Cleaver, Jamie Firth, Nathan Anderson, Dylan Lucas, Nathan Blanch, Dave Duroux. The game begins at 10am.

Brenton Bill & Jim Hannigan 14

Club Championships

Handicap Singles:

• D. Scott 17 d G. Porter 14

Handicap Doubles:

• P. Scott & M. Russell 12 d P. Waters & B. Wellings 8

Division 3 Singles:

• M. Russell 14 d C. Edlund 12

Division 2 Singles:

• G. Porter 25 d N. Barnes 16

Cherry Street

Pennants Team 2025

Team Manager: Penny Scott

A strong team has been selected to represent the club in Pennants. The frst game is on 3rd March at 12:30 p.m., Cherry Street vs. Ballina. All are welcome to come and support the team.

Team Members: Jim Hannigan, Wendy Gilmore, Jenny O’Sullivan, Jenny Dorward, Barbara Wellings, Robbie Allen, Gloria Lewis

TIM HOWARD

Souths/Westlawn opening bowler Nathan Blanch about to deliver the ball. He took 5-74 against GDSC Easts at Ellem Oval on Saturday. Photo: Gary Nichols.

Harwood opening bowler Troy Turner was devastating in Tucabia’s frst innings taking 5-21 as his team powered to outright victory. Photo: Gary Nichols.

Easts centurion Shannon Connor slams a ball over the leg side during his lone hand innings of 102 against Souths/Westlawn at Ellem Oval on Saturday. Photo: Gary Nichols.

In the high-stakes world of motorbike racing, where speed, talent, and determination separate champions from the rest, few stories rival the incredible journey of Drew De Boer. From promising young rider to test development guru, near-death survivor, and youth mentor, Drew’s path has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Now at 36, he’s on the brink of an unbelievable comeback in the 2026 MotoAmerica season.

But getting here was anything but easy.

A Rising Star Falls

At just 17, Drew seemed destined for stardom, securing a coveted spot in the 125cc

World Championship with Honda. It was a dream few dared to imagine—a shot at MotoGP glory.

But as quickly as the opportunity came, it slipped through his fngers. Distractions and immaturity led to poor decisions that resulted in his contract being terminated before he ever raced at that level.

“The loss was crushing,” Drew refects. “I thought I had it all fgured out, but I didn’t realize how precious those moments were.”

Far from giving up, Drew pivoted. He spent years as a test and development rider for Suzuki, working behind the scenes to help shape future championshipwinning bikes. His

expertise and resilience played a pivotal role in Suzuki’s 2020 MotoGP world title win.

“I wasn’t in the spotlight, but I still felt a sense of purpose,” Drew says. “I kept telling myself that the dream wasn’t over. I just had to fnd another way.”

Mentorship and a Life-Changing Crash

In addition to his work with Suzuki, Drew began mentoring young riders, teaching them about the mental strength required to succeed in motorsport. But just as his life seemed to fnd balance, disaster struck in 2023 at Japan’s iconic Suzuka Circuit.

In a catastrophic crash, Drew suffered spinal and neck damage, a shattered pelvis, and broken legs.

Clinically dead at the scene, he was revived and airlifted to the hospital. Doctors warned that he might never walk again.

“After the crash, I didn’t know if I’d ever be the same,” he admits. “It was a battle I didn’t think I could win.”

Through sheer determination and months of agonizing rehabilitation, Drew defed the odds. In just 10 months, he was walking—and training for a racing comeback.

A Second Chance

In November 2024, Yamaha USA offered Drew a three-year contract to race in the 2026 MotoAmerica season. It was the second chance he had dreamed of.

“It felt like everything I’d worked for was fnally coming together,” Drew says. “This time, it wasn’t just about me. It was about showing that no matter how many setbacks you face, you can always bounce back.”

A Role Model Beyond Racing

Off the track, Drew is equally passionate about mentoring youth in the NSW Northern Rivers through his work with HYAP and WAYS. He helps young people facing tough circumstances, guiding them away from negative infuences like crime and toward better opportunities.

“Kids today face pressures we never had to deal with,” Drew

says. “Many come from broken families and don’t have the support they need. My goal is to give them the tools and confdence to make better choices.”

Unstoppable Spirit Drew’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience, mentorship, and the belief that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Whether racing in MotoAmerica 2026 or inspiring the next generation, Drew De Boer proves that every setback can be a step toward an even greater comeback.

“Every day, I remind myself that the dream is still alive,” he says. “And I’m not done yet.”

JEFF GIBBS

Athletes planning to pursue higher education in 2025 can now apply for fnancial support through the Australian Institute of Sport’s (AIS) Athlete Education Scholarship program. Offered in partnership with the John and Myriam Wylie Foundation, the program provides grants of up to $5,000 per athlete to assist with study-related expenses beyond their sporting commitments.

Aligned with Australian sport’s vision to “win well,” the scholarship helps ease the fnancial challenges of balancing education and highperformance sport. It also supports athletes in broadening their career opportunities and preparing for life beyond competition.

Since its launch in 2020, the AIS and the John and Myriam Wylie Foundation have awarded more than $473,000 in scholarships to over 160 student-

athletes, including 47 recipients from 19 different sports last year alone.

Among them is Australian 50m breaststroke record holder Grayson Bell, who expressed his gratitude for the scholarship, which enabled him to pursue both his swimming career and his passion for software engineering.

“Balancing academics with the demands of training and competition as an athlete is

from Chopping in the Tigers forward line.

Tweed Coast Tigers coach Dean Solomon is optimistic about key forward Mitch Chopping’s prospects for his second season with the club, as the forward looks set to continue making an impact in the competition.

Chopping, an experienced forward, played 16 games in his debut season for the Tigers, kicking 41 goals. Solomon is hoping for another consistent season

“’Chop,’ as he’s affectionately known, joined the club last year after the team went winless in 2023. Reaching the fnals in 2024 was a signifcant step forward, and we’re only just getting started. We’ve been adding 16- and 17-year-olds who are now eligible and will continue to do so, forming the most exciting, dynamic team we’ve had in years.” Solomon has

encouraged Chopping to step up as a leader for the younger players during pre-season training at the newly named Beaumont Tiles Tweed Oval. Chopping, one of many new recruits last season, will play a key role in mentoring the youth as they enter their third season under Solomon’s leadership. With the season starting in less than eight weeks, the excitement within the playing group is palpable, and they’re eager to hit the feld.

challenging and the AIS scholarship has signifcantly eased that burden,” Bell said.

“It’s given me the freedom to focus on my athletic goals while ensuring I can continue to achieve my academic pursuits.

“It’s not just an investment in my education and athletic career, it’s an investment in my goals.”

Fellow 2024 Scholarship recipient and wheelchair rugby player Damien Mortaud

is also thankful for the support that helped him fnish a Certifcate IV in Residential Drafting which he hopes will lead to a career making Australia more accessible for people living with a disability.

“I was absolutely honoured to receive the AIS Athlete Education Scholarship. It was instrumental to me fnishing my studies and getting me ready to pursue my passion outside of my sport,” Mortaud said.

The AIS Athlete Education Scholarship is open to categorised athletes who are intending to enrol, currently enrolled, or part way through a course or unit of study from an educational institution that is part of the Elite Sport Education Network (ESEN).

For more information or to apply, visit the AIS Athlete Education Scholarship webpage. Applications close at 2:00pm AEDT Friday 14 March 2025.

GAVIN MCKEAN

Swimmer Grayson Bell received an AIS Athlete Education Scholarship in 2024 which he put towards a Bachelor of Software Engineering.

Wheelchair rugby player Damien Mortaud was also a 2024 scholarship recipient.

IAN ROGERS

HARWOOD JUGGERNAUT ROLLS OVER TUCABIA