The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 165

VOICE YES CAMPAIGN DRAWS BIG CROWDS

SAVE THE REGIONAL SENIORS TRAVEL CARD

Our region is in a cost-of-living crisis. And yet, the NSW Labor government is cutting vital relief for our seniors. 1 million seniors across regional NSW have used the Regional Seniors Travel Card to go to the doctor, visit their families, or participate in social activities. Disappointingly, the NSW Labor government ended this program in July. The government needs to step up and continue providing this critical relief to our seniors. In a cost-of-living crisis, our seniors need more support, not less.

MEMBER FOR BALLINA

TAMARA SMITH MP

Voice Yes campaign draws big crowds

By Tim Howard

Hundreds of Clarence Valley residents flocked to hear prominent Yes 23 campaigners Thomas Mayo and Kerry O’Brien explain why it was necessary to support the Aboriginal Voice to Parliament in next month’s referendum.

Held in Grafton and Yamba last Tuesday and Wednesday, the forums coincided with the announcement of the referendum date on October 14.

The organisers of the events, Clarence Says Yes, were thrilled at the turnout, first in the upstairs Les Beattie Room at the GDSC and the following night at the Yamba and District Golf Club.

Tuesdays event in Grafton GDSC staff was delayed slightly as staff found more chairs to seat the crowd of around 160 who turned out.

The following night’s turn out in Yamba was even bigger with more than 250 attending.

As well as the public meetings Mr Mayo and Mr O’Brien met with Aboriginal Elders earlier in the day.

In his address to the meeting Mr Mayo reflected his past as a wharfie and unionist where he learned the value of collective action and on the history of attempts to bring an indigenous voice into Australian public life based on the 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart.

This document is an invitation to the Australian people to enshrine an indigenous voice in the constitution to enable First Nations people to advise parliament on issues involving indigenous people.

“I became a union official, eventually in 2010 after 16 years on the wharves and I’m here talking about the Uluru Statement from the Heart, not because it’s a union matter,” he said,

“It’s a social justice thing. I understand that this is the key to improving the lives of my families and my communities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across this nation.”

He talked about the

many groups set up to give Aboriginal people a Voice, but which had been shut down when government changed hands.

He described the Yolngu people and the Yirrkala bark petitions, petitions to kings and queens, Aboriginal bodies like the NAC, the NACC and ATSIC formed and disbanded from the 1920s to the early 21st Century, which sought to give his people a voice, but were silenced because of the power the authorities had over them.

“What I’m illustrating here is this pattern that we have established voices many times before,” Mr Mayo said.

“But we have learned through the history of our struggle, that always another government will come along and take it away.

“So that’s one of the lessons that go into this call for a constitutionally enshrined voice.

“We must rebuild a voice because we know that when we have a voice, we see greater progress when we lose our voice when there isn’t this structure with which to speak together with coherency things get worse. The gap widens.”

In his turn at the lectern, Mr O’Brien described with some shocking examples, what he had seen growing up in Queensland and in 50-plus years of journalism in Australia.

“When I grew up in Queensland, like practically all of my generation and

generations before mine, and sadly even generations after mine, I was always totally ignorant,” he said.

“Firstly, of indigenous history, culture, tradition, and civilisation, and I was equally ignorant of the the colonial and immediate post colonial history where white settlers arrived in his country essentially took it over.

“And the history is, is written in blood since that time.”

He said that as a young journalist in 1970 on assignment in Alice Springs he saw things that “shocked him to my core”.

“What I saw was the rawest of racism,’ he said.

“I saw people treated in the most appalling fashion. There was just no way that this could be justified.”

Mr O’Brien also reminded the audience of the milestones in indigenous affairs like the Mabo and Wik decisions in the High Court and how they had to overcome the misinformation campaign of the time.

“The scare tactic of the time was that people’s backyards were going to be taken by indigenous people through native title,” he said.

“And when the Wik Judgment came in, which related to pastoral leases, the scare tactic of that time was that farmers were going to have their land stolen from under them.

“None of it ever happened.”

He compared those events to the more recent Marriage

Equality Plebiscite.

“Remember how we were told that it was going to rob you have your religious freedom,” he said.

“And look at what’s happened since the marriage equality vote. This country is more united around that issue than ever before.

“There is kindness and tolerance in this country with regard to that issue than ever before.”

Mr O’Brien asked the audience to imagine how it would feel waking up on October 15, knowing the Voice Referendum had been passed.

“We wake up and we’re going to have a wish enshrined in our Constitution, giving indigenous people the right to have a say … before it goes out into the community to be enacted as policy that they are actually going to have a say. How dangerous is that?

“Giving indigenous people or say, not giving them a veto, not giving them a separate parliament, giving them a say.”

He said indigenous people had a long and successful history of running the country, which a Voice would recognise.

“Just just just think what it means, 65,000 years of civilisation is 65,000 years of not just survival, but in their own way, prosperity. 65,000 years,” he said.

“That is huge. We can’t say that. I certainly can’t say that.”

After the address, the

speaker took questions from the floor including from several people who said they questioned its necessity. One questioner sought to liken the Voice to South Africa’s apartheid policy, which drew a sharp response from Mr O’Brien. He reminded the questioner that the model of apartheid was modelled on the Queensland Government’s Aboriginal Protection Act of 1897, which allowed forcible removal of Aboriginal people to reserves and missions. There were moments when humour illuminated the debate.

Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung man Vincent Duroux told the gathering he was one of 15 children.

“My family married every European nation in the world,” he said. “The Scots, the English, the Norse, Dutch, American. You name it, we married them all. I took my name from a Frenchman. We love you.”

He said Aboriginal people had demonstrated their sincerity in seeking reconciliation with the white community.

“We have proven that we just want to be acknowledged as 350 nations of Aboriginals on

this continent.

“We’re entitled to be respected as any other peoples on the planet.”

Auntie Janay Daley, who made the Welcome to Country, said she was convinced her community would benefit from a Voice to Parliament.

“People have been saying Yes, others are saying No,” she said. “But when you see it close up, you realise people need to know more about it and understand what’s behind it and don’t make a rash decision.”

Event organiser Julie Perkins was thrilled to see so many people turning out for the forums.

“We didn’t realise it was going to be so big,” she said.

To conclude the forum Mr Mayo recited from memory the Uluru Statement of the Heart, which concludes with this message.

“In 1967 we were counted, in 2017 we seek to be heard. We leave base camp and start our trek across this vast country. We invite you to walk with us in a movement of the Australian people for a better future.”

Mr Mayo also encouraged those who attended to continue to spread the message in the community and enrol to support the Yes 23 campaign.

Yes 23 speaker Thomas Mayo describing how the Voice would fit into the Australian constitution should it succeed in the October 14 referendum.

Vocal Clarence indigenous spokesperson Patricia Laurie addresses the Yes 23 forum in Grafton on August 29.

HEAVY HAIL HITS THE NORTHERN RIVERS

By Sarah Waters

Storm season has arrived early this year with parts of the Northern Rivers region experiencing a downpour of large hail last week.

State Emergency Service public information officer Scott McLennan said the SES responded to 15 callouts from Coffs Harbour to Tweed Heads on Wednesday, August 30, following a storm.

People needed help with overflowing gutters, skylights broken by hail and roofs damaged by trees.

No major damage was reported.

“Normally storm season is October through to March, but it’s started to kick off already,” Mr McLennan said.

“With storms there comes wind, hailwhich we saw last night (August 30) in Murwillumbah, Tweed and Grafton - and some of those wind gusts can get up to 90kph.

“There was also quite a lot of lightening around - one of the challenges RFS has with lightning is it can start a lot of grass fires.

“For us, the issue is branches, trees, filled gutters, drains, downpipes and storm water drains.”

Mr McLennan said the increase in storm activity this season will result in flash flooding, strong wind events and more

damaging hail.

He understood the anxiety heavy rain in the Northern Rivers can bring to residents, but said there is a lot people can do to prepare.

“What we can do is make sure our gutters are clean, our downpipes are clean and our drains are clean.

“If you’ve got storm water drains, or any causeway and culverts, make sure they’re clear,

because if they’re blocked, you’ll get pooling of water.

“Put any loose items away around your yard, turn the trampoline upside down, trim trees and branches that can fall on your home.

“Have a plan for your pets too.

“Be ready, know what your risk is, get your home ready and be in control.”

Murwillumbah resident

Steven Gibbs property in Bray Park was lashed by hail stones.

Mr Gibbs said the hail was initially the size of a small fingernail.

“Most were about the size of 10 cents - largest was about a 50-cent size,” he said.

“We had about four hailstorms starting at 1.50pm (last Wednesday) the last was about 6.40pm.

“The longest hailstorm was at about 2.40pm and lasted about 30 minutes - continuous hail for 30minutes - I haven’t had anything like this.”

Residents are advised to download the Hazards Near Me app: www. nsw.gov.au/emergency/ hazards-near-me-app

Last year the NSW SES responded to 14,000 storm-related jobs across the state.

HAILSTORM: Heavy hail fell on Murwillumbah in the Tweed Shire last Wednesday with residents saying they hadn’t seen anything like it before.

Photos: Steven Gibbs

GM rules out rescission motion

By Tim Howard

A rescission motion aimed at overturning the Clarence Valley Council’s approval to demolish and rebuild a controversial community centre in Yamba will be declared unlawful and not presented to the council meeting.

Deputy mayor Cr Greg Clancy lodged the rescission motion, to overturn approval to demolish and rebuild the Treelands Drive Community Centre, ahead of the August 18 extraordinary meeting of council.

But general manager Laura Black has informed him the motion was unlawful and has cited section 3.20 of the council’s Code of Meeting Practice, which forbids the general manager from including any notice which for various reasons could be considered unlawful.

The section of the COMP reads:

• 3.20 The general manager must not include in the agenda for a meeting of the council any business of which due notice has been given if, in the opinion of the general manager, the business is, or the implementation of the business would be,

unlawful. The general manager must report, without giving details of the item of business, any such exclusion to the next meeting of the council.

The upshot of the ruling will be a report to the meeting from the general manager recording she has not included Cr Clancy’s motion in the business paper.

Cr Clancy said it was “outrageous” the general manager could make a ruling that shut down debate among councillors.

“This is a rescission motion that more than meets the requirements to come to council,” he said. “it has been signed by four councillors. The minimum requirement is three.

“These are matters which should be decided by councillors, not the general manager.”

The council COMP 17.6 makes this the only stipulation for a notice of motion to rescind.

• A notice of motion to alter or rescind a resolution, and a notice of motion which has the same effect as a motion which has been lost, must be signed by three (3) councillors if less than three (3) months has elapsed since the resolution was passed, or

the motion was lost.

The motion Cr Clancy sought to rescind was itself a controversial rescission motion, brought by the general manager and allowed in contentious fashion.

At the February 28 meeting Cr Clancy questioned if it was lawful, as it did not have signatures from any councillors.

Mayor Ian Tiley, reading advice from the Office of Local Government, allowed it on the basis it that new information had become available, that the council’s resolution to refurbish the centre and include a library was outside grant funding guidelines and put at

risk the council’s $11.1 million Bushfire Local Economic Recovery grant.

Council voted to rescind the resolution and reinstate its plan to demolish and rebuild the centre, which had been the plan when the grant funds were made available.

The community has since learned there was no such risk to the BLER funding.

The Yamba Community Action Network made successful requests under GIPA legislation to see emails between the council and the Department of Regional NSW around this issue.

One email, in March, from a Department

employee to council showed the department was aware of both Option A and B and was prepared to fund either option.

“With regard to point 2, I’m concerned that perhaps there’s been some confusion with the funding deed conditions, because for this project, we were aware Council were working on Option B and it would have been a permissible scope variation (i.e. to refurbish the existing centre, rather than knockdown/ rebuild, in order to deliver the project within the available funds). I thought it would be helpful to clarify that point,” a grant project officer wrote in email to council.

The GIPA documents also revealed the “new information” relied on to allow the rescission motion had been a ruling from the department informing the council it could not transfer funding from the Treelands Drive Centre to another, entirely different project, the proposed Grafton Aquatic Centre. This ruling had no bearing on choosing between plans to demolish or rebuild the centre.

Despite receiving

information that appeared to contradict the reason for the council to allow and approve the February 28 rescission motion, this information has never come to a council meeting.

Ms Black has made no secret she was of the opinion the latest rescission motion was unlawful.

The council has issued a press release describing the motion as unlawful and made the same point in an interview on FM 103 Loving Life radio.

Her view was the council could not rescind resolutions where the action had been taken or commenced.

“There are a number of motions, that sorry a number of resolutions that the rescission motion sought to cease I suppose or stop or halt or, you know, reverse,” Ms Black said on radio. “However, they have in the main, they have all been commenced.

“So, one of them was the negotiations, another one was that tenders were called, there are a number of different resolutions there, but they have already occurred, so you can’t rescind something that has already occurred.”

I love working with our local communities to make a difference.

Clarence Valley deputy Mayor Cr Greg Clancy.

Defamation threat must be formally withdrawn

By Tim Howard

A community group accused of defaming a senior Clarence Valley Council staff member says it remains under threat of litigation, despite council’s claims it has not commenced court action.

Last week the council issued a statement saying it had no plan to litigate against the Yamba Community Action Network or two of its office holders, Lynne Cairns or Col Shephard.

In July the council solicitor sent a letter to Yamba CAN claiming the group had defamed its general manager Laura Black and demanded it apologise and remove a Facebook post.

The group, acting on legal advice, took this to be a concerns notice which is an essential first step in defamation proceedings.

Mrs Cairns said while

the mayor and council spokespeople have claimed there has been no litigation, the original letter has not been formally withdrawn.

Yamba CAN Inc’s solicitor has advised that the council’s solicitor’s concerns notice is a document necessary to begin court proceedings and that council has until July 2024 to take Yamba CAN Inc to court if they believe Yamba CAN Inc has not complied.

“If council is not proceeding and threatening litigation in court will council’s solicitor be writing to Yamba CAN Inc’s solicitor informing the alleged defamation proceedings are withdrawn?” Mrs Cairns said.

The group’s legal advice has queried other anomalies in the council’s solicitor’s two letters to Yamba CAN

The first, a concerns notice, was addressed

to “Yamba Community Action Network (Yamba CAN) Inc.

She said the advice was the letter addressed Mr Shephard and Mrs Cairns as office bearers.

A second letter of further particulars, addressed to Yamba CAN Inc’s solicitor said:

“Our Client: Clarence Valley Council” and “Your client: Yamba Community Action Network (Yamba CAN) Inc.”

The council has claimed its p Yamba CAN Inc’s solicitor has replied to council’s solicitor denying the defamation allegations.

Yamba CAN wants an open and transparent council that welcomes community participation and upholds probity of council decision-making and good governance in accordance with council’s Strategic Internal Audit Plan 2022/2024.

ARSON ACTIVITY TARGETING SUGARCANE CROPS

Police and Fire crews were called to the scene of a spate of reckless arson activity targeting sugarcane crops across parts of the lower Clarence Valley last weekend.

In the early hours of Saturday morning, at least half a dozen paddocks of sugarcane were deliberately set alight on properties in the Chatsworth and Harwood areas. Given

the dry conditions, these uncontrolled fires, that were lit near homes and livestock could have had deadly ramifications.

The culprits also caused chaos by opening the rear hatches of numerous fully

loaded cane bins, each holding over 22 tonnes of cane billets.

Anyone with any information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Community fury at pool delays

By Tim Howard

The prospect of a scaled back Grafton Aquatic Centre and delays in awarding a tender has created fury among pool users.

Around 30 of them gathered outside the pool in Turf St, Grafton, on Thursday to vent against Clarence Valley Council’s handling of the project.

The demonstration occurred nearly a year to the day – September 17 – after the council announced Grafton pool would close permanently.

Last month, at an extraordinary meeting, called to note the results of negotiations between council and companies tendering for this project and a project in Yamba, councillors voted against accepting the advice.

The vote has little more than symbolic value, except to indicate further action, including a motion to rescind approval for the project, could have majority support.

For a representative of local pool users, GDSC Swimming Club president Stephen Donnelly, evidence of the council losing focus on the project was infuriating.

He said the there had already been a look of work behind the scenes on the project including geo-technical studies to uncover the structural deterioration of the site, which caused its closure.

Mr Donnelly was disappointed the council appeared to have changed its mind over the pool project.

“It’s come to crunch time and we have four councillors who want to

proceed with the project and five who don’t, based on the vote at the meeting,” he said.

He said the group who gathered at the pool on Thursday were determined to show the council what the public thought of it backtracking on the project.

“We’re on Facebook and the phones encouraging people to go to the September 26 council meeting to show them what we thing,” Mr Donnelly said.

‘We want people to email or phone councillors and write letters to tell them what they think.

“We’re also getting a petition together to show the council what the community is feeling about the delays.”

Mr Donnelly said councillors opposed to continuing with the current project spoke about costs blowing out from $24 million to $30 million or more and interest rates climbing above 6.5%.

He said delaying the project would also be costly and in a worse case scenario might mean

the pool complex was not completed.

“The South Grafton Pool is costing council $400,000 a year to run,” he said. “bringing contractors back in, the cost of re-tendering, the increasing cost of materials all these things add up to delaying the project adding to the cost.”

“And what happens if in a few years there’s a new council and they decide we only need a 50m pool and we’re stuck with that.”

Cr Peter Johnstone has consistently argued for a minimalist approach to replacing the Grafton pool complex.

He has no issue with the overall multi-pool design, but argues price constraint and difficult economic conditions mean the council should concentrate on building just a 50m pool initially and tackling the rest of the project when funds became available.

He attempted to further this proposal at the meeting, but Mayor Ian Tiley ruled him out of order and his attempt at a motion of dissent was

unsuccessful.

But he did make his position clear.

“What I would say is that the costs are clearly well beyond what really we’re expecting and I think we should be closing this process now and looking for alternatives and exit routes,” he said.

Cr Johnstone said he had been given a figure of just over $9 million to build a 50m pool, which, with around $6 million council had reserved for project would limit the amount of council borrowing to a few million.

But Cr Johnstone said he would hold off on bringing a rescission motion until he heard the result of the negotiations with tenderers, due at the September 26 council meeting.

“It will depend on what figurers we get from the tenderers and the attitude of the councillors,” he said.

Cr Johnstone was hesitant to mention a date when Grafton would have an 50m pool again, but suspected it would not earlier than 2025. He did not agree with a possible 10-year delay, which was a figure fellow councillor Alison Whaites mentioned in a media report.

A change.org petition has been raised asking the council to finalise a decision on the pool and commit in writing to an immediate commencement to build the full, three-stage plan or, option 2, a FINA standard 50m pool as the starting point of the project, with additional stages of the aquatic centre to come as funding is sourced.

DIOCESE ANNOUNCES VISION FOR THE NEXT 100 YEARS OF HEALTHCARE

The Diocese of Lismore today announced its vision to ensure the Northern Rivers and surrounding communities continue to be provided with high quality health care, announcing plans for a new private hospital, in the Uralba Street health precinct.

The new hospital will be built directly across the road from the Lismore Base Hospital, and the new hospital will facilitate the provision of expanded private health service opportunities and a consolidation of existing services.

“Our vision is to see a new private hospital created, surrounded by a thriving community of healthcare professionals providing cutting-edge specialist medical services,” said Greg Isaac, Diocesan Business Manager for the Diocese of Lismore.

“Since 1921 St Vincent’s Lismore has had a clear purpose to provide healthcare for the community in faith, hope and charity with compassion and respect. The plan we announced today will see the legacy of St Vincent’s Lismore continue long into the future.

“It is our unique history as a cornerstone of the community that has inspired us to think beyond the present day about how the growing and changing needs of our community will be best met for the next hundred years.”

“What we know is that innovative developments, like the one we have announced, will attract additional highly skilled specialists and create more, not

Please, be bushfire ready Preparations essential to avoid repeat of previous disasters

less opportunities for medical and health care professionals already working in the Northern Rivers region.

Just as the new private hospital and surrounding health precinct will offer contemporary models of care, so too it will be funded and operated using a contemporary model led by a specialist private hospital provider.

The Diocese of Lismore is progressing with the purchase of the land for the new hospital and will now undertake a competitive process to secure a specialist provider to operate its acute health services going forward. Once the new hospital is open, the Diocese’s vision is to invest more in bestin-class facilities and services at the existing hospital site in Dalley Street, transforming it into an aged care centre of excellence for the region. It is not proposed that the Diocese develops or operates the new hospital.

“The Diocese believes the specialised delivery and operating model for the new hospital, together with the Diocese’s vision for the future of St Vincent’s Lismore’s existing site, will take health and aged care in the Northern Rivers to a new level, and deliver even higher quality, patient-centered care, which is central to the values of the Diocese”, said Mr Isaac.

“We’re at the beginning of an exciting journey and look forward to our patients, staff, volunteers, health care professionals and communities joining us to achieve the best outcome for all.”

GDSC Swimming Club president Stephen Donnelly says Clarence Valley Council’s indecision over the Grafton Regional Aquatic Centre has angered the community.

A PROMISE KEPT FOR 100 YEARS

By Sarah Waters

In 1923, Legacy made a promise to help Australian defence force families carry on with their lives after the loss or injury of a loved one.

This year marked 100 years since that promise was made - and kept.

To recognise the service of Legacy, a centenary plaque dedication was held at Chris Cunningham Park in Tweed Heads last Wednesday.

Legacy representatives, war veterans and war widows attended the dedication to pay tribute to the work the organisation has done over the last century.

President of Legacy Gold Coast Craig Kingston refected on Australia’s wartime history and how the loss of 100,000 Australia soldiers during WW1 and WW2 impacted the nation.

“The greatest impact of

the death or poor health of a veteran is always felt frst and foremost by the family,” Mr Kingston said.

“This year Legacy commemorates its centenary of providing

6.25

support to these families often trying their best to fll the role of a missing husband, father, brother or uncle.

“Legacy did this for the families of 100,000 veterans who gave

their lives over two generations when our nation was young and our society had been robbed of the cream of its young men,” he said.

Mr Kingston said although there are nowhere near as many casualties among the newer generations of veterans, they still faced a lot of challengessome different, and some similar, to the WW1 and WW2 veterans.

Legacy has continued to care for families who have suffered from the effects of mental trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a result of war.

“The challenges of mental health are stark, and we now have many veterans who have given

their health in the service of our country,” Mr Kingston said.

Chaplain Rob Sutherland spoke about how he supported many veteran families after they lost a loved one in confict.

Mr Sutherland said Legacy was the ‘most trusted defence force charitable organisations’ which provided grieving families with the ongoing help they needed.

Tugun resident Dorothy Olney became involved her local Legacy Laurel Club - a social group for war widows - in 2007 after her husband, a former defence force member, passed away.

Mrs Olney said the Laurel Clubs were a valuable support to her

and many other ladies who had lost their husbands, during or after war.

“You’ve got to think about others, not just your own sad time,” Mrs Olney said.

“There are others who are going through the same thing you are, and they all need your help as much as you need their help,” she said.

After the dedication, Chaplain Rob Sutherland blessed the Legacy centenary plaque.

The dedication was held during Legacy Week, from August 27 – September 2, which is the charity’s biggest annual fundraiser.

Fundraising for Legacy originally started in 1942, during WW2, to help to raise funds for the widows and children of soldiers who did not return home.

It was known then as the War Orphans Appeal. Legacy currently supports 40,000 individuals and families across Australia with the help of more than 3400 volunteer members, known as Legatees.

The organisation was born in the trenches of the Western Front during WWI, when a soldier said to his dying mate ‘I’ll look after the missus and kids.’

This became known as The Promise, which it is still kept alive today.

To learn more or to donate visit: www. legacy.com.au/about-us/

CEMENTED IN HISTORY: War veterans and war widows attended the Legacy centenary plaque dedication at Chris Cunningham Park in Tweed Heads last Wednesday.

A Day of Fun supporting Jos

family, the Alstonville Plateau Sports Club is having ‘A Day for Jos’.

There will be a Kids Disco with Disco Statik and a Treasure Hunt.

NBN’s Big Dog will make an appearance with a host of other friends.

There will also be a show by The Wild Life Twins.

Local businesses have thrown their support behind the day by donating some fantastic prizes for the raffes.

The day will also hold an auction and up for grabs will be signed NRL jerseys, NRL packs, two nights at Alstonville Country Cottages, a night at the Ramada and much more.

LABOR SAFER WATER FOR CLARENCE RESIDENTS IS TOO BIG AN ASK FOR SYDNEY

The NSW Labor Government has confrmed in Parliament that it has no intention anytime soon of honouring its own election commitment for a water fltration plant for Clarence Valley Council, Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson says.

“I arranged for a question to be put in Parliament on this key issue to Sydney Labor Water Minister, Ms Rose Jackson MLC,” Mr Williamson said.

wasn’t ‘exploring options’ when it passed a law in June to protect Sydney water security, but not that of regional NSW,” Mr Williamson noted.

Labor’s Constitution Amendment Bill 2023 guaranteed public ownership of the Sydney Water Corporation and the Hunter Water Corporation, but not NSW Water, which serves the regions.

By Samantha Elley

To watch a loved one suffer from a brain tumour is bad enough, but when that person you care for is a young teenager who hasn’t had

a chance to live their life yet, that is a whole different layer of hurt.

That is the case for the family of Alstonville local Joscelyn McCabe.

The 13-year-old has been diagnosed with

DIPG or Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Gliomas which is a highly aggressive and diffcult to treat brain tumour found at the base of the brain.

To help raise funds to support Joscelyn and her

NOW is the time to buy From $325,000.

The day will be on September 10, starting at 12pm, so come along to Plateau Sports, 10-14 Deegan Drive, Alstonville with the kids for a great day and a worthy cause.

“Labor’s commitment before the election was ‘priority investment for this project’ however the Minister now says ‘we are exploring options’, code for yet another broken promise to regional NSW.

“The Government

“When it is something for Sydney, Labor cash splashes our tax dollars, but when it is a basic necessity for regional communities like the Richmond and Clarence Valleys, they hold a review and/or blame the previous Government. Not good enough,” Mr Williamson concluded.

Everything its quacked up to be

By Samantha Elley

The Richmond River is about to be inundated with little non-feathered quackers as the Rotary Great Duck Race gets ready to take place on September 10 from Fawcett Park.

For the last 30 years these friendly little yellow ducks have taken over the waters as funds are raised to beneft local and children’s charities.

Only last year the duck race brought in $12,000.

President of Rotary Ballina-on-Richmond, Jamie Marshall, said the Great Duck Race is an icon for the area.

“For us it’s a way for the community to connect,” he said.

“We can all get together, young and old, it’s a good thing especially as we have lost a few large events lately.”

This year the funds

raised will be going to Our House, Sprung Integrated Dance Theatre and Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital.

Local businesses can buy their own corporate duck for $50 and dress it up to represent and promote themselves.

There is a Best Dressed Duck event with everyone competing for an annual trophy.

While these ducks won’t be going in the water, those bought

for the main event, the Community Duck Race,

Tickets for the community ducks are 1 x

Website launched to raise community awareness of coercive control in domestic violence

A new website on coercive control has been launched by the NSW Government to help raise awareness and educate the public about this abuse, which is a known precursor to domestic violence deaths.

Attorney General Michael Daley said the website provides information to broaden the public’s understanding of coercive control in current or former intimate partner relationships. It provides accurate descriptions and examples of coercive control and includes information about what the legislative reforms mean, who they apply to, how to recognise patterns in behaviour that could lead to this form of abuse and where and how to seek help.

Amendment (Coercive Control) Act 2022 to criminalise coercive control in current and former intimate partner relationships.”

These new laws will come into effect in 2024 and, if found guilty, perpetrators can face up to a maximum of seven years in prison.

Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said there is very poor understanding of what coercive control is in the community.

assesses and manages domestic violence cases come 2024, and the government is now making sure people recognise the signs and know what it is.”

Women’s Community Shelters CEO Annabelle Daniel OAM said the website is critical to providing people with accurate information so they can spot the signs of coercive control in their own or others’ relationships.

will all have a number on them.

The public can buy a ticket corresponding to a numbered duck .

The frst past the post in the race, to be held on the Richmond River, will be entered into the 2023 Dashing Daffy and the holder of the winning ticket will receive a voucher from Harvey Norman Electrical for $500.

Second prize gets $250 cash from Launch Performance & 4X4 and third prizes a $100 voucher from Resonator Music.

$5 or 3 x $10 and are on sale at 130 River Street (next to the Lollie Shop), at Wallace’s, Flowers in Paradise, The Kitchen Café, McGrath Real Estate and Ballina Fair (near TK Maxx area). They can also be purchased online at www.trybooking.com/ CDTBW. Corporate Ducks can also be purchased for $50 online via the link.

Mark it in your diaries that the Rotary Duck Race starts at 11am at Fawcett Park in Ballina on September 10.

“The Domestic Violence Death Review Team found that about 97 per cent of intimate partner domestic violence homicides in NSW between 2000 and 2018 were preceded by coercive control where the perpetrator used emotional and psychological abuse towards the victim,”

Attorney General Daley said.

“And on average, one woman is killed in Australia every 10 days by an intimate partner.

“It is for this reason that the NSW Parliament passed the Crimes Legislation

“Independent research commissioned by the Department of Communities and Justice found that while 2 in 5 people claimed to know what coercive control means, only 1 in 5 could correctly identify at least one aspect of coercive control,” Minister Harrison said.

“Coercive control is a pattern of behavior used against an intimate partner that impedes on their freedom and liberty, and can include controlling the way they dress, who they communicate with and even their access to fnances.

“It is behaviour designed to exercise domination and control over another, and can be hard to spot because it can be deeply contextual.

“Coercive control laws will have a profound impact on the way that our justice system

“While some coercive and controlling behaviours can seem minor on their own, when they’re repeated or continuous, they can cause serious harm to the victim, affecting a person’s sense of safety and independence, and making them feel trapped, powerless and alone,” Ms Daniel said.

“A history of coercive and controlling behaviours in a relationship is also a known precursor for intimate partner homicide. So, if anyone is worried about coercive control in their own, or someone else’s relationship, please know, there is help.”

If you are experiencing or know of someone who is experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT seven days a week, 24 hours a day.

To learn more, visit the coercive control website here: nsw.gov.au/ coercive-control

Rotary Ballina-on-Richmond’s Jodie Shelley and president Jamie Marshall with a couple of corporate ducks. The others are some of the corporate duck entries.

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Landcare going from strength to strength in NSW

By Janelle Saffn MP, State Member for Lismore

On the evening of Tuesday 1st August I got together with many of my fellow Parliamentarians to join in the ‘Trees in the House’ celebration of Landcare NSW. It was great to see so much support for this wonderful movement which is now into its fourth decade of leading community efforts to care for our environment.

There is a strong NSW Parliamentary Friends of Landcare group of which I am proud to be a member, and the fact it is bipartisan demonstrates the commitment both sides of politics have towards Landcare across our great state.

Ahead of the 2023 state election the Labor

Opposition that I was a part of pledged $59 million towards the next phase of the NSW Landcare program to be rolled out over the coming four years. I’m pleased to report that we’ve honoured this commitment now that we’re in government. It is the largest-ever injection of funds into

Landcare by any NSW Government, and will support local jobs in rural and regional communities.

Landcare NSW coordinates a 60,000-strong network of volunteers in 3,000 Landcare groups across NSW, who augment work done by landholders on

THE DOORS OF ALCOHOLICS

sustainable agriculture and natural resource management.

Local Land Services NSW and Landcare NSW are now working together to maximise the outcome from the expanded program for the public of NSW and the environment.

The fresh funding will enable more investment in training and capacity building and strengthen community efforts to become more resilient in the face of extreme

Premier Chris Minns appointed me to a new role as Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery. I am honoured to take on this new role and will do my best to work on how to ensure continuous improvement in recovery.

We all know now from lessons hard learned that ‘better prepared, better response, brings better recovery’. We were not prepared for what happened in the 2022 foods and the then NSW

bushfre season than usual and communities need to start preparing.

Tenterfeld local government area (LGA) has already entered the Bush Fire Danger period and from 1 September several more northern NSW LGAs will enter, including Lismore, Kyogle, Clarence Valley, Tweed and Richmond Valley.

The Rural Fire Service (RFS) is ramping up backburning operations and has begun rolling

climate events.

Landcare has announced more than 100 community leaders are being employed to help combat the increasing skills gap expected to occur over the coming decade in rural and regional NSW, and an additional 11 new regional First Nations Landcare offcer roles are also being created.

It’s estimated that a supported Landcare community returns at least $4 for every $1 invested, meaning the $59 million will generate around a quarter of a billion dollars in benefts for NSW regional businesses, government agencies and rural economies.

Hard-won local experience to inform my new role

On 23rd August

Government had not taken on board any of the recommendations and learnings from the tragic 2017 foods.

I shall not lose sight of the enormous amount of recovery work that still needs to be done up here in my home patch and in step with my duties to play a coordination role across the government agencies. We are also fortunate to have our local MPs and Mayors backed by their councillors and councils all active in our recovery and we now meet every fortnight to advance and action all matters to do with recovery.

Be prepared for early start to fre season

The ongoing dry weather across the Northern Rivers heralds an earlier start to the

out new digital fre warning signs, with northern NSW among the priority areas. The digital signs will be updated automatically each day, meaning RFS volunteers will no longer need to manually change the signs.

It’s also reassuring to know that over 1,300 Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW State Emergency Services (SES) vehicles are now equipped with stateof-the-art 4G satellite communication systems.

This means that frst responders will be able to continue using radios, mobile phones and other handheld devices anywhere and at any time, even if communications infrastructure is damaged in a disaster.

Celebrating Landcare NSW at Parliament House on 1 August 2023 were (left to right) the Hon. Kate Washington, the Hon. Mick Veitch, the Hon. Penny Sharpe, the Hon. Janelle Saffn and the Hon. Trish Doyle.

All NSW emergency services vehicles have now been ftted with 4G satellite communications technology in time for the upcoming fre season.

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Diary of a Flood Survivor

We met our new neighbours over the weekend.

That may not seem like a big deal anywhere else, but when your neighbourhood has gone through a massive food, for new people to consider living in the area brings with it a mountain of hope.

Hope that the community will be flled with people again, hope that life will get back to normal and hope that it will not be so ominously quiet due to the empty houses that were not renovated and are no longer liveable.

Since the food I can count three brand new houses that have been built in the area, and now four when our neighbours are fnished with their project.

While we have seen a number of renters come

into the town, which in itself is a good sign, it’s the home-owners who are willing to make our village their forever place that has lifted our spirits.

While the buy-back

scheme is a great idea for those whose homes were in the path of last year’s food and possible future inundations, it leaves gaps in a community, like a lovely smile with missing teeth.

I have heard rumours of a number of buy backs in my street alone, so it makes me wonder, if the gossip is true, how that will look once all the formalities have gone through.

So to fnally meet the people who will be erecting a house on the empty block we have lived next door to for more than 13 years is an exciting development.

A couple of other

houses have elected for raising, which I fnd fascinating as they were already two storey homes.

Could these be Woodburn’s frst high rises?

At Southern Cross Care NSW & ACT, we want to support you to stay living at home, active and connected within your community. If you’re aged 65 years and over, or Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander aged 55 years and over, why not enquire about how home support services could assist you.

Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT) is a leading not-for-profit aged care provider that has been caring about people for more than 50 years.

We provide a comprehensive range of personalised, flexible services to help keep you living at home.

“We have a fairly big yard, I’ve tried to keep it nice. The Southern Cross Care team have organised mowing the lawns for me. Gardening makes me feel a lot better. It keeps the mind active.”

– Home Care Client Bill

“I like going to the pool. I’ve noticed it’s easier for me to get up and down, and I’m walking a bit easier.”

– Home Care Client Judith

It’s tough as a climate warrior

Title: Tough is not

Enough

Author: Steve Posselt

Price: $19.95

Publisher: Ebono Institute

Publishing

By Samantha Elley

If we all had the passion for what was important to us as Steve Posselt has in ghting climate change, who knows how much better the world would be. Depends on what you are passionate about, I guess. Hot o the back of his marathon kayak trip down the Murray-Darling River from Brisbane to Adelaide in 2007, to raise awareness of the state of our rivers, Steve knows more needs to be done.

As an engineer in the water industry he knows rivers are our lifeblood and if we are going to leave the planet in a decent state for our grandchildren, awareness, hopefully leading to action, needs to be raised.

For this reason, in 2015 he starts to plan an epic trip across three conti-

Women make up more than half of

NSW Ambulance ranks

By Sarah Waters

NSW Ambulance has become the frst NSW emergency service to reach gender parity in its ranks, with women now making up more than 50 per cent of the NSW Ambulance workforce.

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park was recently joined by NSW Minister for Women Jodie Harrison to mark the milestone.

“Dedicated and skilled women work across NSW Ambulance in many roles, including as paramedics, aeromedical crews, nurses, doctors, specialist rescue crews, call takers and dispatchers, and corporate and support staff,” Mr Park said.

“We are incredibly grateful for their contribution to the health system in New South Wales and thank them for their service to their communities,” he said.

NSW Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said it is important that workforces refect the people it serves.

“Workplace gender

nents to culminate at the Paris Climate Conference or COP21.

Tough is not Enough chronicles every step Steve and his support crew go on to make the adventure happen.

ere is humour, there is disappointment, there is triumph but most importantly there is a determination to do what Steve knows in his being has to be done. To make the world aware of the danger of unchecked climate change.

Climate warrior is a tting title for someone who takes his kayak, Old Yella, up the Mississippi, through the canals of the US and the UK, down the ames and across the English Channel and through the Seine to Paris.

For the reader concerned about this planet’s future, this book is a must read. For the reader who isn’t aware of the dangers of climate change, even more so.

You can pick up your copy of Tough is not Enough locally at Hemlock’s Books and Co ee at Woodburn or online at amazon.com.au

diversity matters and it is pleasing to see NSW Ambulance has achieved this,” Ms Harrison said.

“It is an important step for NSW Ambulance as an employer and for patient trust and care.

“We know that a diverse and inclusive workplace is benefcial to all employees - not just women - and has a positive impact on the

organisation as a whole.”

NSW Health Secretary Ms Susan Pearce said women now occupied almost 45 per cent of all leadership roles across the organisation and made up the majority of the executive leadership team.

“Gender diversity is so important because it brings a breadth of perspectives, experiences and skills that enhance

the quality of care we provide to our patients,” Ms Pearce said.

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dominic Morgan congratulated the women who have helped grow NSW Ambulance into the respected, skilled, and diverse organisation it is today.

Lee Clout was the frst female paramedic in NSW.

She joined the ranks in May 1979 at Wagga Wagga ambulance station.

“I’m really pleased that people are now being employed for their skills and experience, with women receiving the same opportunity,” Ms Clout said.

“Gender has got nothing to do with it. It’s just about what you can bring to the job.”

NSW Ambulance implements a range of support programs including tailored training programs, mentoring initiatives, and ongoing professional development opportunities.

REVISED LEVEE AND DRAINAGE STUDY AIMS TO IMPROVE FLOOD RESILIENCE

Calling all residents of Murwillumbah! Tweed Shire Council invites you to actively participate in shaping the future of our town by sharing your thoughts on the draft addendum to the Murwillumbah CBD Levee and Drainage Study.

Manager Roads and Stormwater Danny Rose said the draft study was an opportunity for Council to work towards creating a safer and more food-resilient community.

“The original study, conducted in 2018, helped us to understand the food risks and devise mitigation strategies for Murwillumbah. However, the 2022 food event and the degree of business and residential losses in the CBD catchment prompted us to re-evaluate and expand on our initial plans,” Mr Rose said.

“We have already secured the support of the National Emergency Management Agency, through tranche 1 of the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program, to fund pump

station upgrades in Murwillumbah.”

The draft addendum study will be used to guide investment under this program by recommending a series of food pump station upgrades. This will boost the capacity of the drainage systems behind the town levees while the river is in food, to reduce the impacts of inundation.

“While we can’t make the town food free, these measures will improve the town’s resilience and is a proactive step towards addressing worsening food risk with a changing climate,” he said.

“The draft study thoroughly assesses

these options, using new data and modelling of the 2022 food.

Recommended upgrades to the existing pump stations at Lavender Creek and Wharf Street will signifcantly improve performance and reduce economic losses.

“However, we need your perspective to ensure that these recommendations properly refect the needs of our town. Your involvement is important in shaping the future of Murwillumbah.”

The draft addendum to the Murwillumbah CBD Levee and Drainage Study is open for public feedback now until Wednesday

20 September 2023.

To have your say, make a written submission in one of the following ways:

• Online: Visit yoursaytweed. com.au/addendummurwillumbah-cbd-leveedrainage-study

• Email: Send an email to tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au with the subject heading: Addendum to the Murwillumbah CBD Levvee and Drainage Study

• Mail to: Murwillumbah CBD Levee and Drainage Study General Manager

Tweed Shire Council PO Box 816 Murwillumbah NSW 2484.

Aerial view of Murwillumbah in the 2022 food, looking along Wollumbin Street

Women now make up more than 50 per cent of the NSW Ambulance workforce

FASCINATINGLY, the first expression coined for Europeans over 230-years ago by the local indigenous community of Sydney was the word ‘berewal-gal’, which translates, “people from afar.” The connotation is one of almost unbridgeable distance, removal even; people that were somehow very much out of place, if not displaced in a very discernible sense.

Sadly, little has changed over the years as we head towards a referendum pertaining to a topic – The Voice – that has been rounded, if not abruptly paraded and then pounded into a wooden chest that might as well be destined for a delivery by mode of tall ship.

I personally hope we seize the opportunity as a country to celebrate, embrace and enshrine the presence and importance of our indigenous history; one that stretches over 65 thousand years into the past, a past that backdates all other ‘ancient’ cultures many times over. Relatedly, the pyramids were erected a mere 3 thousand years ago, which puts into stark perspective why the voice of our nation’s original inhabitants ought to be given the focus and paramountcy that it deserves.

Once upon a time human beings were creatures of their word, we gave it and it was in turn a given that whatever we agreed to, albeit stated, would be done. In time, the scribbled ink of our signatures would seal deals and assume an almost sacrosanct importance that our word should’ve always been enough to ensure. Or as Maya Angelou once reflected, “Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It

takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning.”

Traditional cultures the world over tended to be more inclined to function orally, which is why notionally, an initiative titled ‘The Voice’ taps into a way of interacting, respecting and communicating along lines that have been all but lost, if not rendered obsolete through our obsession with the primacy of the written word.

What our country stands to gain through saying ‘yes’ is a mechanism whereby we can have mature discussions; a platform that ensures we can all have a say (regardless of our race or background) and be heard via the merits of what we each have the courage and thoughtful conviction to raise. By saying ‘no’, we are in turn “saying” nothing more can be said, we are giving up on our past and more importantly our future, and accepting that neither can be used to learn lessons that will help us unite in ways we couldn’t otherwise imagine.

While no one alive today can personally be held responsible for the outrageous ‘principle’ of “terra nullius” (or “nobody’s land”), we can all take issue to the fact it should never have been utilised to displace and ultimately try to eradicate a way of life that had prospered for many thousands of years. Thus, here and now, it is our time to show responsibility and attempt to create a mechanism that will help to heal, promote and deepen our awareness – through discussion, of what makes our indigenous culture so unique and worthy of vigilant preservation.

The offcial Bushfre Danger Period will start from midnight this Friday, 1 September 2023 across the local government areas of the Clarence and Richmond valleys as warm, dry conditions increase the risk of fres, Clarence Nationals MP, Richie Williamson has announced.

Mr Williamson said we are bracing for what could be a challenging bushfre season coming hot on the heels of three years of high rainfall and vegetation growth.

“We are already seeing fres active across the Clarence and Richmond valleys because of hot and dry conditions, so it’s really important local communities are prepared for the bushfre season and are aware of the need to get fre permits as we enter this offcial Bushfre Danger Period,” Mr Williamson said.

“It is imperative that anyone intending to light a fre on the ground and in the open obtains a fre permit from their local Fire Control Centre.

“It’s also really important that everyone starts preparing their properties like taking simple steps to reduce vegetation and cleaning gutters to reduce the amount of fuel.

“It’s important to take heed of the permit requirement and property preparation to minimise danger to yourself, your property and your community.”

Mr Williamson said it is also a requirement to let the Rural Fire Service and your neighbours know 24 hours before you light up on your property.

“I want everyone to do the right thing as substantial fnes and prison terms of up to 12 months may apply to persons found to be

in breach of the Rural Fires Act 1997 and its regulations.

“With the fre season here, I would encourage everyone to download the ‘Hazards Near Me’ app which has a range of features to keep people informed and safe during an emergency.” https://www.nsw.gov.au/ emergency/hazards-nearme-app.

For details on acquiring a free fre permit in the Clarence or Richmond valleys, contact your local fre control centre below:

Clarence Valley Richmond Valley Address: 15 Coldstream St, Ulmarra Address: 40 Neville Bienke Memorial Dr, Casino Phone: 02 6644 5135 Phone: 02 6663 0000 A Fire Permit is required for burning activities during the Bush Fire Danger Period at all times.

From 1 September, the following LGAs

will begin their Bushfre Danger Period: Muswellbrook, Singleton, Kempsey, Nambucca, Mid-Coast, Port MacquarieHastings, Clarence Valley, Ballina, Byron, Tweed, Bellingen, Coffs Harbour, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley, Gunnedah, Liverpool Plains, Upper Hunter, Bega Valley, Eurobodalla and Shoalhaven.

This is in addition to the six LGAs that commenced the danger period on 1 August –Armidale Regional, Walcha, Uralla, Glen Innes Severn, Inverell and Tenterfeld. Further information about hazard reduction burning, obtaining permits and required notifcation is available on the RFS website here - https://www.rfs.nsw. gov.au/fre-information/ BFDP.

Railway Outcomes from BSC Meeting

The recent Byron Shire Council (BSC) meeting saw a debate last for what one councillor described as “the record time for an issue”.

Deciding whether a ‘rail trail’ (actually a trail without the rail) should be given a go ahead, produced an extremely emotional meeting. One councillor cried, others were angered and upset.

The debate centred on whether BSC should approve a rail trail only, on the railway line that passes through Byron Shire, or wait for the outcome of the current investigation into the condition of the line.

In the end a motion was passed favouring a rail trail, but the outcomes of the degradation study from Bangalow to Yelgun will be forwarded to council for its consideration when it is completed in December.

The Northern Regional Railway Company has been granted a license by UGL and TfNSW to access the line, to ascertain the costs

of fxing the tracks. Northern Rivers Railway Ltd has also been granted a license to access Lismore to Bangalow. The study so far is showing the tracks are in good condition and they will only need to have some sleepers replaced. Bridges and culverts have all previously had concrete foundations

installed so it is just the top, less expensive, layers that will need to be renewed. This is exciting news for those needing train services to return.

We can see there is plenty of room for a bike/walking path on the side, within the railway corridor. Some areas are within beautiful natural

Navigating life with a kid that has

Stories from Mastery Schools Australia

environments.

As the study is completed, investment for returning services will be sought.

If you support the return of trains and would like to help with the clearing please go to www.northernriversrail. com.au

GRAFTON REGIONAL HOCKEY ALL THE BRIGHTER THANKS TO$335,000 LIGHTING UPGRADE

The Grafton Regional Hockey Complex is all the brighter thanks to a $335,000 LED lighting upgrade to both of its synthetic playing felds.

Onsite today to offcially open the recently completed project, Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson said the funding was made possible thanks to an investment by the former NSW Nationals in Government under the Female Friendly Sport Facilities and Lighting Upgrade program.

“Hockey is a really big sport in Grafton and has produced some outstanding female players over the years, with the U/18’s girl’s representative hockey team recently travelling to Narellan to play in the Division 1 State Championships,” Mr Williamson said.

“The lighting upgrade will provide a safer and more inclusive space allowing increased night

games while at the same time reduce running costs by providing more durable lighting.

“When women and girls feel comfortable they are more likely to stick with their chosen sport. This helps local clubs keep existing players and inspires the next generation of female sporting stars.

“It’s important that we continue to invest in existing local sporting infrastructure making them safer,

more inclusive and more sustainable, and I congratulate Grafton Hockey Association on its successful application under the program.

Grafton Hockey Association Vice President Lyn Newby said the upgrade across both the existing playing felds will ensure the longevity of the lights and decrease direct electricity costs.

“This means we can keep playing fees at a reasonable cost and

ensure there is suffcient lighting around the complex to enable our player base to be secure, while enjoying sport and ensuring a safe and inclusive atmosphere while enjoying night hockey,” she said.

Grafton Rugby Club was also successful in receiving $160,000 under the same program to upgrade lighting and other female facility upgrades at its Hay Street sporting complex in South Grafton.

Dyscalculia is a maths learning disability that affects around two children in every Australian classroom. According to Learning Diffculties Australia, Dyscalculia is an ongoing crisis that continues to go unnoticed in mainstream schools. Over 10% of school children meet the criteria for Dyscalculia. However, will not receive the support they need to manage it. If these student’s do not get the learning support they need to navigate the challenges associated with dyscalculia, it can affect their ability to understand and perform tasks as they get older, and negatively impact their self-esteem.

In 2022, Helen enrolled her daughter at Mastery Schools Australia (MSA) who at the time was in year ten and suffering from Dyscalculia. Her daughter was struggling to read numbers and solve basic math problems. She went through years of mainstream schooling without the help she needed and began to disengage academically and socially. With her self-esteem shattered, she was rapidly losing faith in her ability to succeed. Like many other MSA families, the impact of her struggles was beginning to affect her entire family and her mother Helen was desperate to fnd a solution.

Helen said, “I could just see [her] struggling and not connecting to anything. It was like she lost herself

because she did not get it. I think the hardest part was she was struggling with maths. So, when she was doing well elsewhere, no one noticed how her struggle with maths was really affecting her.”

Many students with Dyscalculia come to MSA with little self-belief and low motivation to learn. MSA provides a safe and supportive learning environment with small classes, high teacher ratios and tailored learning support for every student so all students feel comfortable enough to learn.

Helen’s daughter came to MSA to repeat year ten. Within twelve months of attending MSA, Helen’s daughter went from refusing to attend school, to graduating year ten accepting multiple awards including the Highest Attendance and Community Values awards. Her twelve months at MSA were enough for her to re-engage with her learning, reconnect with her peers, and improve her confdence.

Helen’s daughter said, “MSA was what I needed, and I now feel like I can actually have a future.”

If your child is disengaged or struggling in a mainstream school, you can contact Mastery Schools Australia by calling (07) 5551 4080 or visiting our website www.msa.qld.edu.au

Written by Ashlee Thomas

Steel sleepers, Byron to Mullum track

Dyscalculia:

AHEAD OF A HOT DRY SUMMER, PILLOWCASE WORKSHOPS ARE HERE TO SUPPORT REGIONAL COMMUNITIES

Australia Post are proud to have just announced our support for Pillowcase workshops, delivered across the country by the Australian Red Cross. Working in every community across Australia, our team members are often at the frontline of disaster. We see frsthand how a disaster can affect a community and we want to do what we can to provide support. That’s why we’ve raised more than $1.8 million for Australian Red Cross since 2019 and contributed towards supporting 470,000 people across 133 emergency events. We also work hard to ensure via critical mail redirection services and pop-up post offces are available to Australians when they need them. But we also want to help even before people need us the most.

That’s why we’re passionate about supporting the Australian Red Cross Pillowcase workshops, helping to prepare more than 6,000 primary school students living in areas of high risk of natural

disaster every year. We’ll support Australian Red Cross in delivering the educational resources required for the program, including the emergency pillowcase kits that aid families in packing essentials swiftly during

crises. We know families want access to crucial support when natural disasters strike. So we’re pleased to play a part in Australian Red Cross’ mission to continue to foster resilience and the

practical skills needed in our communities to reduce the impact through psychological and practical preparation.

As we head into a hot, dry summer, it may be time to ask if you and your family feel

emergency-ready. Could your kids do with some new skills and additional support?

Learn more about Pillowcase workshops at https://www.redcross. org.au/emergencies/ pillowcase-program/

It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ here, addressing ‘Mum Jane’. ‘Mum, I read the other day that when the Baby Jesus was born, his Mother Mary laid him in a Manger full of nice fresh straw. Could we buy a Manger please; it must have legs and be at least 3 ft. above the ground. I have astutely not failed to notice that YOU are chucking straw all over our garden beds of late; to me this seems a rather futile exercise in stupidity so why not place the straw in a Manger, then put the Manger in a warm sunny place, or a cool shady place in Summer? It could be MY new place of repose, just like the Baby Jesus. Oooh Mum, it would be so nifty, kinda like my own fortress. Into the bargain, it would keep me safe from marauding puppies, wild foraging koalas, ferce snakes & 3 susso blokes atop camels who said they were wise men bearing gifts.’ (I have ALWAYS kept in mind your advice NEVER to take gifties from strange men Mum!) I fgured I should make her a cup of tea & a ginger bikkie to allow her time to ponder my request. All done!! I confess she did look a little befuddled by my MOST simple petition; she was emanating deep breaths with a meanie frown on her elderly countenance. Hmmm?!

Eeek..a shouty voice was directed at me & hit my ears like a lightning clap.

‘LEEMO, just sit down and listen to me you absurd cat; do you have one single clue about what a Manger is?

For your information, it is a a wooden or stone feeding trough or food box that holds hay for BIG sturdy farm animals like cattle, horses, and donkeys, even for large pigs, BUT unquestionably NOT for cats. I very much doubt Bunnings sell them, but perhaps you could head out West on your completely ‘under utilised’ delicate paws and ask a kindly farmer to give you a spare one; you can then drag it home yourself with a harness ‘cos I AM NOT becoming involved in bringing your preposterous request to fruition. GOT IT?’ (And I might add, Leems, you will pay the farmer from your own money!!) OMG, this is diabolical, it’s surprising I haven’t run away. BUT, I’m having the last say here; but frst a small meditation session is warranted; lying on the warm grass, paws in air, tail gently swishing & sun on my tummy. Blissy!! NOW, I had a plan, and, giving Mum a big purry licky kiss, I asked her to listen to me; my words came forth like a gentle miracle. ‘Mum, I ‘spose wanting a Baby Jesus Manger was a bit over the top. BUT, Mum, you’ve forsaken me a bit in past weeks; I just wanted your attention. All you do is cook jam & pickles & lemon butter and stuff and NOW you’re making old fashioned coconut ice, (and cussing) leaving nary a moment to spend with me playing with leaves & sticks & stuff on the grass.’

(Goodie, her meanie face became a calmer visage, well, as much as her wrinkles would allow.) ‘Oooh, Leems my darling boy, I truly am so sorry. I have just been most busy ‘cos my CWA BRANCH ARE HAVING A FUNDRAISING STALL AT BUNNINGS in Lismore on Sept. 9th. I’m just doing my bit to help raise money. I love you trillions so let’s go play on the grass together. Whoohoo, with purry purrsies. Leemo.

TWEED’S BIGGEST SOLAR ENERGY ARRAY OPENS AT BANORA POINT

Tweed Shire Council switched on the Shire’s largest solar array on the 31st of August, securing the Tweed’s top spot for solar energy uptake on the NSW North Coast.

Covering the size of a football feld, 1,208 high-effciency solar panels with a capacity of 604 kilowatts are now powering one of Council’s most powerhungry facilities, the Banora Point Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Mayor of Tweed Shire

Cr Chris Cherry said the Banora Point solar array had increased Council’s renewable energy capacity by about 60 percent, with more than 20 Council facilities now host to 1.6 megawatts of solar energy.

“Tweed homeowners, businesses and Council, it’s time to celebrate. We are the top adopters of solar energy on the North Coast of NSW,” Cr Cherry said.

“Nearly 53 percent of Tweed houses now have solar panels. There have been nearly 2,500 commercial solar installations in our Shire to date.

“It’s estimated the roofs of more than 20,000 Tweed homes plus businesses and Council facilities have a combined solar energy capacity of 125 megawatts.

“That’s the highest capacity of any local government area from Port Macquarie north to the Queensland border.

“Congratulations must

go to our homeowners and business community for adopting solar energy in such large numbers.

“Solar is a great investment in saving money on electricity bills and makes a vital and

pumps with new high effciency units.

only reduce our carbon emissions, but ultimately beneft ratepayers by saving money on power bills.”

Cr Cherry said those assets were some of the biggest power consumers at the plant and their replacement had reduced their power consumption

Tweed Shire Council’s water and wastewater facilities are some of its most power-consuming assets.

Historically, the facilities have used about $3.4 million of gridbased electricity a year,

effective contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from grid electricity,” she said.

The Banora Point solar array powers the Tweed’s largest wastewater plant, which processes the sewage of 55,000 people from Banora Point, Bilambil Heights, Terranora, Tweed Heads, Tweed Heads South and Tweed Heads West.

It’s the second major energy effciency project for the plant this year.

In June, Council replaced the plant’s aging blowers and Return Activated Sludge

by up to 7%.

“Together, these energy effciency projects are set to cut Council’s greenhouse gas emissions by 747 tonnes a year, saving us at least $140,000 on electricity costs annually,” Cr Cherry said.

“This is great news for our environment and goes a long way towards achieving Council’s Renewable Energy Action Plan goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions from our electricity use by 50% by 2025.

“Projects like these not

which is about two-thirds of Council’s entire power bill.

The cost of installing the solar array at the Banora Point plant was $1,050,000, which will pay for itself in energy savings in about 8 years. Go to tweed.nsw.gov. au/SustainableOperations to fnd out more about Council’s Renewable Energy Action Plan. Through initiatives such as the Banora Point solar array, Council is reducing its impact on the natural environment and responding to climate change.

“Leemo has views on just about anything” LEEMO v. MUM JANE on her COOKING

Tweed chalks up highest rate of solar uptake on NSW North Coast

Tweed Shire Council staff stand proud in front of the Tweed’s biggest solar array, housed at the Banora Point Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry, Cr Nola Firth, St Joseph’s College Science Leader of Learning Jo Burnett, St Joseph’s College students Harriet and Cleo, Club Tweed Finance Manager Deborah Workman and Council staff celebrate the opening of the Tweed’s largest solar array.

Applications open for Australia Day community event funding

Get involved in the platyproject for some platypus spotting this September

This September everyone is invited to help one of Australia’s most iconic species, the platypus, by participating in the platy-project.

Council is offering fnancial assistance to community organisations across the Tweed who plan to hold small community events three days either side of Australia Day 2024.

Council’s Manager of Corporate Governance

Stephanie Papadopoulos said these small community events have a big impact.

“As the Australian Government has given local councils a range of dates on which they can choose to hold their ceremonies, Council is offering fnancial assistance for eligible Australia Day Events to be held on one of the 3 days either side of 26 January 2024,” Ms Papadopoulos said.

“Bringing people together is paramount to fostering a vibrant community where both the people and places of

the Tweed can thrive.

“We look forward to seeing the events our community groups have planned for the public to enjoy.”

The amount of funding available is based on the expected audience size of the event.

There are criteria for application, which include:

• Any community organisation requesting fnancial assistance for an event must be Tweedbased and provide an outline of the event.

whatsontweed.com.

au - to ensure the public has information of the event.

The platy-project is an annual event hosted by the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) that brings together people from across Australia, to help count and monitor the platypus population in our waterways. Data collected from the project is used to better understand the platypus population and make informed decisions about their protection.

get involved in this special project to help this unique species. The briefng event is a great opportunity for everyone to bring their friends, neighbours, and kids to learn more about the species and how you can get involved in this years’ platypus watch,” Ms Caddick said.

“September is the best time of year to spot a platypus, but if you see one at another time, you can still jump on the ACF website and record your sighting on the platyproject map,” she said.

The 3 categories of funding support on offer are:

• Category 1: $300 for events up to 149 attendees

• Category 2: $400 for events with 150-249 attendees

• Category 3: $500 for events with more than 250 attendees.

Community organisations applying for the frst time will be assigned to Category 1 grant funding.

• The organisation must be an incorporated body and hold public liability insurance.

Get your application in before 5 pm on 29 September 2023

• Funds are not to be used for a social activity for members of the community organisation exclusively and no fnancial assistance will be given to privatelyowned businesses or companies.

• Successful applicants will be required to place event details on Council’s calendar of events -

• The successful applicant must also recognise Council’s support for the event on the day and in all promotional material. Eligible applications will be assessed by the Tweed Shire Australia Day Awards Selection Panel on Thursday 19 October 2023.

All relevant approvals will need to be applied for and must be in place if the event is to be held on Council-managed land such as a park or beach.

To apply, please complete the application form on Council’s Australia Day webpage and return your application to Council by 5 pm Friday 29 September

“Last year over 1,000 people across Australia participated in the platyproject, with several people spotting the mammal in the Byron Shire, including at the Bangalow Weir Parklands,” Council’s Biodiversity Team Leader, Liz Caddick said.

“The exciting thing is that Byron Shire residents may have a platypus living closer to them than they think. They are known to live in urban rivers, suburban creeks, and farm dams and we have plenty of those all around us and potentially many more platypus to spot,” she said.

To help kick-off the project this year, Vision Walks Eco Tours are partnering with Council to run a briefng event on Tuesday 29 August from 4pm until 5.30pm at the Bangalow RSL Hall. More information about the platy-project event is on Council’s website.

“I urge everyone to

As part of Council’s Dogs in Public Spaces Strategy (strategy) the location of the dog exercise area was amended at the Bangalow Weir Parklands to help protect local platypus. New signage is also being installed by Council to remind dog owners to keep their dogs on lead and out of the water.

“Platypus can be easily disturbed by dogs running in the water. They may stop them coming out and feeding, which is critical to their survival, especially in spring when they have babies (known as puggles) to look after,” Ms Caddick said.

“The signs encourage owners to keep their dogs out of the water and on-leash at all times. They can still be off-leash in the designated areas,” she said.

To see a map that shows the places you can exercise your dog off-leash in Byron Shire, please visit Council’s website. www.byron.nsw.gov.au

Community organisations keen to host an Australia Day community event can apply for fnancial support from Council.

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Church o cer (6)

4 Wages (8)

10 Poem (5)

11 Criticism (7)

12 Impeached US president (5)

13 Teachers (9)

14 Darling (8)

16 Excellence (6)

17 Astronomical cloud (6)

19 Female server (8)

23 With healing properties (9)

25 In addition (5)

27 Launched weapon (7)

28 Luxury (5)

29 Box (8)

30 Finish (6)

DOWN

1 Vast Sudanese grasslands (7)

2 Copy (5)

3 South-West Paci c region (7)

5 Metal body protection (6)

SUDOKU

6 Mean (7)

7 Present to someone new (9)

8

No. 162

5 A game of tenpin bowling consists of how many frames?

6 Who wrote the 1960s poems Ariel, Daddy and Tulips?

7 Miranda is a moon orbiting which planet in our solar system?

8 Valkyries are supernatural gures from what mythology?

1 What does a etcher make?

2 What city is known as the ‘City of Light’?

3 In mathematics, is the value of pi closest to: 5.23, 4.12 or 3.14?

4 Which of Henry VIII’s (pictured) wives gave birth to Elizabeth I?

9 Mr. Misto elees is a character in which musical?

10 In the coloured belt ranking system of karate, is blue above or below green?

ACROSS

1 Deceive (4)

5 Small particle (4)

6 Agricultural land (4)

7 Third person plural (4) DOWN

1 Stupid (4)

No. 162

WORD FIND

The

2 US state (4)

3 Small opening (4)

4 US TV award (4)

9-LETTER WORD No. 162 20

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included, and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Each number corresponds to a letter. Can you crack the code?

CROSS MATH

Insert each number from 1 to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations. Multiplication

5x5

G

S S

N I

I A E

A E

No. 138

HIDDEN WORD

Solve all the clues and an eight-letter word will be spelled out.

1 Cooked eggs

2 Looks like a bear

3 Smell these owers

4 Pour this on cake

5 Yellow, in the middle of 1-across

E T Y

No. 137

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words –ve reading across the grid and ve reading down.

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

6 Rooster’s call, ‘– – doodle doo!’

7 Home to otters, sh, crocodiles

8 Preparation for bread, cake or beans

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW...

1. Baron Cohen’s filmmaker alter ego Borat Sagdiyev is from which country?

A. Uzbekistan

B. Kazakhstan

C. Kyrgyzstan

D. Turkmenistan

2. Which Home and Away star did Baron Cohen marry in 2010?

A. Ada Nicodemou

B. Kate Ritchie

C. Isla Fisher

D. Melissa George

3. For which film did he win a Golden Globe?

A. Grimsby

B. Brüno

C. Sweeney Todd

D. Borat Subsequent Movie lm

4. In the 2012 Hollywood adapation of Les Misérables, who did Baron Cohen play?

A. The innkeeper Thénardier

B. The fugitive Jean Valjean

C. The police o cer Javert

D. The romantic Marius

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

GRAFTON

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DONOVAN LIVESTOCK & PROPERTY PH: 02 6643 4411 276 TOTAL HEAD YARDED

103 EXPORT 173 YOUNG CATTLE

A good quality yarding came forward this week with most cattle being in good condition. The market for bullocks slipped with only one processor operating however cows sold fully frm. All young cattle sold on par with previous weeks, the majority of them being better quality.

THIS SATURDAY – Bizzy & Jomanda Brahman Bull Sale, Grafton Saleyards | 11am

LISMORE

LISMORE CATTLE MARKET REPORT BROUGHT

TO YOU BY IAN WEIR & SONS - 02 6621 2768

OFF THE RAILS BY GLENN WEIR CATTLE MARKET REPORT

BEEF BREEDER SALE - 2ND SEPTEMBER 2023

Last Saturday a beef breeder sale was conducted by lan Weir & Son at Lismore Saleyards.

WARWICK

MC DOUGALL & SONS

LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK & DISTRICT W/E 01/09/2023

Cattle sales resumed at Warwick this week after the problems were fxed with the equipment and Agents saw 1210 head meet the market. The market was frm for the light feed on stock, heavy cows and steers held their ground, light feed on stock may have been a bit easier depending on type and breed.

Vealer steers av 252.1c/kg topping at 314.2c/kg or $602.20 to $829.29

Vealer heifers av 202.7c/kg topping at 248.2c/kg or $532.57 to $795.27

Feeder steers av 255.6c/kg topping at 300c/kg or $937.44 to $1613.24

Feeder heifers av 219.4c/kg topping at 248.2c/kg or $794.05 to $1277.61

Yearling steers av 249.4c/kg topping at 328.2c/kg or $758.40 to $1624.59

Yearling heifers av 204.9c/kg topping at 252.2c/kg or $629.58 to $1031.40

Steers av 248.3c/kg topping at 281.2c/kg or $1320.57 to $1617.72

Heifers av 221.2c/kg topping at 270.2c/kg or $1023.16 to $1576.26

Manufacturing steers av 220.3c/kg topping at 240c/kg or $1200.41 to $1488.00

Cows av 168.9c/kg topping at 230c/kg or $852.06 to $2162.00

Bulls av 228.7c/kg topping at 300c/kg or $1266.30 to $2682.72

Sheep and Lamb numbers increased to a total of 2509

THURSDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER 2023 – Grafton Store

Cattle Sale, Grafton Saleyards | 9am

TUESDAY 12TH SEPTEMBER 2023 – Grafton Fat

Cattle Sale, Grafton Saleyards |

A good quality yarding of breeders was on offer, and buyers mainly from the local area were in attendance.

Several lines of well-bred Angus heifers - calved and springing got the sale off to a good start ranging in price from $1,400 to $1,675 for an average of $1,540.

Small lines of cross bred heifers. PTIC, sold from $825 to $1,500 depending on condition and quality.

Cows and calves topped at $2,450 for John Hannigan’s

head with the stock drawn from the Western regions to the Border and the New England. The lambs were approximately 50% of the yarding with Mutton in various breeds and types making up the balance.

Lambs topped at $120 to av $86.20 ($4 /head up)

Hoggets topped at $100 to av $51.06 ($6 down)

Ewes topped at $75 to av $44.45 ($17down)

Wethers topped at $82 to av $52.59($7down)

Rams topped at $70 to av $30.51 (Par )

Lamb rams topped at $50 to av $33.76 ($5up)

Ewe Lambs topped at $100 to av $90.63 ($39up)

Total yarding av $67.13 a drop of $5/head week on week.

Pork & Poultry numbers were back this week. Sows sold from $150 to $200, Baconers from $208 to $238, Light Pork to $100, Stores from $20 to $161 Poultry saw Roosters sell to $27.50, Hens to $21, Pullets to $35, Peacocks to $60, Drakes to $30, Ducks to $52.50, Bantams to $25, Groups of Ducklings to $30, Groups of chicks to $45.

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

Agents today yarded a total of 2509 head for the weekly sale, the stock was drawn from Western Qld to Sth West Qld as well as the New England and Border Districts. The number was nearly double last week with a higher percentage of Mutton especially in the lighter categories. lambs topped at $120 to av $86.20 ($4up), hoggets topped at $100 to av $51.06 ($6down), Ewes topped at $75 to av $44.45($17down), wethers topped at $82 to av $52.59($7down), rams topped at $70 to av $30.51(par),lamb rams topped at $50 to av $33.76($5up), Ewe lambs topped at $100 to av $90.63($39up). The sale

SALES 02 6662 6222 sales@nrtimes.com.au

line of Greyman cows and calves, other ranged from $700 to $1.300 Good quality preg tested cows sold from $1,000 to $1,600.

In the bull section, Daryl and Charmain Patterson’s Black 2-year-old Simmental bull topped the day at $7,300.

The weekly Wednesday sale of meatworks bulls, cows and vealers and weaners continues at Lismore Saleyards, held in conjunction with all Casino

total of 2509 head av $67.13/head which was down by $5/ head from last sale.

Greenup Maryland P/S sold Dorset lambs 58kg shorn to restockers for $120 and $105, 62.5kg woolly to Thomas Foods for $117

Jukes & Sons sold Dorper lambs 56.1kg to Eversons for $111, 50.7kg to Eversons for $100, Ewe lambs 53.4kg, 52.8kg, 49.7kg, 49.3kg , to restockers for $100, Dorper ewes to Thomas Foods for $60, ewes to Eversons for $35

James Cowlishaw sold Merino wethers with a third wool skin to Eversons for $82

Gooroo Grazing sold Xbred lambs 50kg to Warwick Meats for $105, 53.5kg to Thomas Foods for $105, Dorper lambs 62.5kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $118, and Eversons for $108, 54.4kg to Thomas Foods for $108

Armstrong Family sold Dorper x lambs 49.6kg to Eversons for $108, 52kg to restockers for $108 and 52kg to GR Prime for $95, Ewes to Thomas Foods for $45, Ewes to Eversons for $22, $10 and restockers for $4

Banaba P/S sold Dorper x lambs 52.2kg to Eversons for $100, 41kg to Luck Meats for $65, Ewes to Thomas Foods for $68, Ewes to Eversons for $55

Sloss Family sold Merino wethers 61kg to Thomas Foods for $62, 54kg 4tooth to Thomas Foods for $50, 52kg Merino hoggets to Eversons for $39

Mc Dougall Family sold Dorper x lambs 53kg to Thomas Foods for $105, 49kg to Warwick Meats and Tonys Supa Meats for $100, ewes to Eversons for $30

Greg & Judy Collins sold 35.2kg Dorper lambs to restockers for $57, 35kg ram lambs to Whites Trading for $35, 25kg ram lambs to restockers for $27.

JCD Rural sold 48kg Dorper lambs to GR Prims for $100, 45kg to GR Prime for $70, Ewes to Eversons for $55

✆ Albury - 02 6080 9520, Casino - 02 6662 6222, Dubbo - 02 5858 4078, Gra on - 02 5632 3041, Moree - 02 6794 3889, Tamworth - 02 5719 1656, Wagga Wagga - 02 5940 8516 Directors, co-owners and co-founders: Jeffrey Gibbs and Sharon Bateman ISSN: 2652-7928 a Genesis Media company ABN: 84 134 238 181 All rights reserved © 2023 Distribution Coffs Harbour north to Southport and west to Tenterfield weekly.

Global beef markets: Lower demand in most regions and diverging prices to affect exports

Rabobank

Beef markets around the world – other than the United States – are seeing softer consumer demand, with global cattle prices now split

softer consumer demand and “full supply chains”.

In a number of regions, particularly in Asian countries, beef purchases made through 2022 and into 2023 in anticipation of recovery from Covid

fall to their lowest levels in fve years through July. But with some rain through cattle-producing areas in July, stability returned to the market,”

Mr Gidley-Baird said.

Weekly national

cow slaughter is seeing stronger volumes exported to the US – up 103 per cent for July.

“Australian live cattle exports are down 17 per cent for the year to date (July), but we see this

EPA issues Stop Work Order on forestry operations in Tallaganda State Forest

NSW Environment Protection Authority

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has issued Forestry Corporation of NSW (FCNSW) an immediate Stop Work Order to cease harvesting in parts of the Tallaganda State Forest.

Following a community complaint, EPA offcers inspected several active logging compartments in Tallaganda on Tuesday 30 August and located a deceased Southern Greater Glider around 50 metres from forestry harvest operations. It is not yet known how the glider died.

identifed den trees.

“While community reports suggest around 400 Southern Greater Gliders may be living in the Tallaganda State Forest, FCNSW has identifed only one den tree and we are not confdent that habitat surveys have been adequately conducted to ensure all den trees are identifed.

“The EPA has a strong compliance and enforcement program for native forestry, and we will take immediate action where warranted, including issuing stop work orders for alleged non-compliance.”

into two distinct groups: those in North America and Europe, and those in the rest of the world, Rabobank says in its just-released Q3 Global Beef Quarterly.

The report says declining supply and strong consumer demand in the US is driving cattle prices higher, while lower domestic beef supply has also held up prices in Canada and Europe. In most other regions, however, the opposite – increased supply and lower demand – is making prices softer.

Report lead author, Rabobank senior animal protein analyst Angus Gidley-Baird said US cattle prices have increased almost 30 per cent over the past 12 months, while Australian cattle prices have dropped by more than 30 per cent.

“This price spread is the largest we have seen in the past 10 years,” he said.

“Such a separation in prices will have consequences for beef exporters’ competitiveness, and we expect to see some shift in trade volumes as a result.”

A consistent theme across most markets –other than the US – is

have not been consumed, the report says. These are now part of growing stock levels that also include other proteins.

“Softer consumer demand is making it harder to move these volumes through the system,” Mr GidleyBaird said.

Australia

After falling for most o the year, Australian cattle prices had levelled out in mid-June, the report said.

Mr Gidley-Baird said the market had “seen heavy steer prices rise towards the end of July before dropping again. Meanwhile national saleyard restocker steers have drifted down slightly in August. The EYCI (Eastern Young Cattle Indicator) was down 45 per cent yearon-year for the month of August to average AUD 5.40/kg”.

Through May and June, prices had eased on producer concern about the seasonal outlook, which added additional cattle to the market, he said.

“At the same time, producer buying activity dropped as cattle numbers were building, processing capacity remains constrained and consumer markets are still soft. This saw prices

slaughter volumes for year to date (as week 33) were up 23 per cent on 2022 volumes with the increased cattle inventory fowing through to fnished cattle numbers.

“Processors remain constrained as they balance the decision to increase shifts with available cattle numbers and demand in end markets. As such, weekly cattle slaughter has been range bound at around 120,000 per week. Our expectations are that when supply chains start to clear and product starts to move more freely, given the additional cattle numbers on the ground, we will see processing capacity lift and Australian production take another step up,” Mr GidleyBaird said.

Australian export volumes rise

For Australia, the Q3 2023 Beef Quarterly says, export data for July shows beef export volumes up 30 per cent year on year.

However, Mr Gidley-Baird said, markets are mixed, with congestion generally limiting volumes to Asian markets, such as Japan, while strong demand in the US and an increase in Australian

more as a refection of lower Australian cattle numbers in northern Australia where the rebuild has been slower,” he said.

High livestock numbers

Mr Gidley-Baird notes Q2 Australian cattle slaughter numbers were up 16 per cent year on year, while 1H slaughter numbers were also up 16 per cent compared with the frst half of 2022 year.

“While not record levels, you can see that they are approaching the fve-year average and given constraints on processing capacity at the moment – these volumes will be testing throughput,” he said.

EPA Acting Executive Director Operations, Steve Orr said the discovery of a deceased glider was extremely concerning given their increased reliance on unburnt areas of the forest following the 2019/20 bushfres and its proximity to active harvest operations.

“Southern Greater Gliders are an endangered species and shelter in multiple tree cavities, known as ‘den trees’, over large distances,” Mr Orr said.

“Den trees are critical for the food, shelter and movement of gliders and FCNSW is required to protect them and implement 50 metre exclusion zones around

FCNSW has been ordered to immediately cease all harvesting, haulage operations, and any road and track construction work in the areas of concern in the Tallaganda State Forest. The order is in place for 40 days and can be extended.

FCNSW must immediately comply with the Stop Work Order. Failure to comply with a Stop Work Order is a serious offence and can attract a maximum court-imposed penalty of up to $1,650,000 and a further $165,000 for each day the offence continues. Similar penalties apply in respect of a breach of the Forestry Act.

The EPA’s investigation is ongoing.

Rabobank senior animal protein analyst Angus Gidley-Baird

Ant wars: How native species can win the battle over invasive pests

New research using insight from virtual gaming and real-world ant battles shows how native insects can be given an upper hand against some aggressive introduced species, which could help guide non-native invasive ant management.

Dr Samuel Lymbery, who undertook this work as a Forrest Prospect Fellow with The University of Western Australia and CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, used mathematical models on video game simulations, garnered from Age of Empires II, to illustrate how battlefeld dynamics change warfare outcomes.

These concepts were then confrmed in the real-world by observing ant battles between Australian meat ants, a native species, and smaller Argentine ants, a notorious pest.

“What we found from virtual gaming and then real-life ant battles was that mortality in the small armies of Australian meat ants facing off with large armies of non-native Argentine ants was lower in complex arenas and higher in simple arenas,” Dr Lymbery said.

“So, just like for humans, and in computer games, the outcome of ant-wars depends on the nature of the battlefeld.”

Dr Raphael Didham, Professor of Ecology in the School of Animal Biology at The University of Western

Australia and CSIRO scientist, said social insects such as ants were one of the few species to engage in warfare on the same scale as humans.

“This is because the evolutionary future of the sterile worker ants who do the fghting is invested in the greater good of the colony,”

Professor Didham said.

“We used two ant

species that clearly differed in their fghting prowess.

“Our frst combatant was the Australian meat ant, Iridomyrmex purpureus. These large

and beautiful ants are dominant in undisturbed bushland across regional Australia and construct gravelly nests.

“As their enemies, we selected the notoriously

invasive Argentine ant, Linepithema humile. These aggressive ants have been introduced to Australia and are comparatively tiny, but live in extremely large, hyper-cooperative colonies.

“Meat ants always defeat Argentine ants in one-on-one duels because of their size advantage.”

How modifying the battlefeld can dictate victory

Dr Bruce Webber, Principal Research Scientist at CSIRO, said the ant battlefeld research could have practical application for non-native invasive ant management.

“Non-native invasive ants are some of the worst pests on the

planet, costing the global economy tens of billions of dollars per year,” Dr Webber said.

“Invasive ants like Argentine ants are typically smaller and more numerous than native species, and are often more dominant in disturbed habitats.

“Disturbed environments are often simplifed at ground level, with the removal of undergrowth and natural debris creating open battlefelds.

“This research suggests that modifying areas where native and non-native ants co-occur, by adding natural debris or other such structures, may tip the balance in favour of our larger native species.”

Dr Lymbery said by modifying natural environments the native ants were given more opportunities to succeed.

“Warfare theory suggests that fewer, stronger soldiers will be more effective when battles are a series of one-on-one duels. But larger armies are more effective when they can surround their enemies and concentrate attacks,” Dr Lymbery said.

“Battlefeld complexity can tip the balance in favour of one strategy over another.

“When fghting in tunnels, alleyways, or diffcult terrain, it is harder for large armies to surround their opponents, so small forces of strong or savvy soldiers can sometimes succeed.”

Social insects like ants are one of the few species to engage in warfare on the same scale as humans. © Bruce Webber CSIRO

FRIDAY

GARDENING AUSTRALIA JUNIOR

ABC TV PLUS, 7.05pm

MONDAY

THE MASKED

TEN, 7.30pm

SINGER AUSTRALIA

It’s another singing competition, but there’s no other show with a party of lively crooning creatures. Set to inspire some feverish sleuthing, this season’s sprightly and bizarre characters include a hi-tech space fairy (pictured), a leather-jacketed crash-test dummy, a candy-coloured, pouty “cow” girl and a sparkling snow fox, with a crew of well-known celebrities hiding underneath these elaborate costumes. The avour of this over-the-top competition is delightfully ostentatious, with host Osher Günsberg and judges Abbie Chat eld, Mel B, Chrissie Swan and Dave

WEDNESDAY STARSTRUCK

ABC, 9.30pm

Dynamic Kiwi comedian Rose Matafeo’s (pictured) quirky rom-com has returned for its third season with an unexpected twist. After concluding on a heartwarming note between lovers Jessie (Matafeo) and Tom (Nikesh Patel), this spirited, funny story has fast-forwarded two years, and Jessie is now single. “It could have just been another year of Tom and Jessie going out and crazy pratfalls and that happened because he’s famous,” declares Matafeo. “I’d be bored by that… I want to get to the heavy stu .” As we ponder whether their spark can be reignited, Jessie distracts herself from news of Tom’s engagement by going on a date. Lively and refreshing, this new direction is seductive.

0809

FRIDAY, September 8

6.00 The Drum. Analysis of the day’s news.

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. Josh Byrne prunes native plants.

8.30 Miniseries: The Control Room. (Mal) Part 2 of 3. Gabe is blackmailed into further criminal behaviour by Anthony over his links to Sam.

9.30 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) Barnaby and Nelson investigate after an artist who had a manuscript stolen is electrocuted.

11.00 ABC Late News. Coverage of the day’s events.

11.15 Miniseries: Innocent. (Malv, R) Part 2 of 4.

12.00 Harrow. (Mv, R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

SBS World News.

9.40 Tony Robinson: The Thames At Night. (Ml, R)

10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 Vise Le Coeur. (MA15+a)

12.05 Reunions. (Mas, R)

1.55 Box 21. (MA15+v, R)

3.45 Food Safari. (R)

4.15 Bamay. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs goes behind the scenes at the OzHarvest warehouse. Adam Dovile shows how to make a daybed. Graham Ross visits the Broughton Hall garden.

7.30 Football. AFL. Finals Series. First elimination nal. Carlton v Sydney. From the MCG.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews.

11.00 Armchair Experts. (M) Adam Cooney, Cam Luke and Georgie Parker present their unique analysis of the week in AFL.

12.00 Reverie. (Mav, R) The upgrade is set to launch.

1.00 Home Shopping.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Finals Series. First qualifying nal. Brisbane Broncos vs Melbourne Storm.

9.45 NRL Finals Footy Post-Match. A post-match NRL wrap-up of the rst qualifying nal between the Broncos and the Storm, with expert analysis and player interviews.

10.30 MOVIE: The Enforcer. (1976, Mlnsv, R) Clint Eastwood.

12.30 MOVIE: Slayground. (1983, Mlv, R)

2.20 It’s All Greek To Me. (R)

2.50 9Honey: He Said She Said.

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Postcards. (PG, R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.

7.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week.

8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mals, R) Graham Norton is joined by actors Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Kate Hudson, Elizabeth Banks and British Vogue’s head fashionista Edward Enninful. Music comes from Self Esteem.

10.30 Just For Laughs Australia.

(MA15+s, R) Hosted by Nath Valvo.

11.00 The Project. (R) The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.

ABC TV PLUS (22)

Gardening Australia Junior. (Premiere) 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Spicks And Specks. 8.00 Hard Quiz. 8.30 MOVIE: Judy. (2019, M) 10.25 Noughts + Crosses. 11.20 Killing Eve. 12.05am Unprotected Sets. 1.00 Last Night Of The Proms.

2.15

5.00 Moon And Me. 5.25 Teletubbies. 5.35 Late Programs.

Noon Supergirl. 2.00 Full House. 2.30 Raymond. 3.00 MacGyver. 4.00 Family Ties. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 MOVIE: Sherlock Gnomes. (2018) 7.40 MOVIE: The Secret Life Of Pets. (2016) 9.25 MOVIE: Den Of Thieves. (2018, MA15+) 12.10am Homeland. 1.10 Grimm. 2.10 Love Island USA. 3.00 Bakugan: Evolutions. 3.30 Lego Jurassic World: Legend Of Isla Nublar. 4.00 Mega Man: Fully Charged. 4.30 TV Shop. 5.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 WSL Wrapped. 10.00 Blokesworld. 10.30 American Pickers. 11.30 Pawn Stars. 12.30pm Storage Wars: TX. 1.00 American Restoration. 1.30 Billy The Exterminator. 2.00 Hardcore Pawn. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Shipping Wars. 4.30 Storage Wars: TX. 5.00 American Restoration. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. 7.30 MOVIE: A Knight’s Tale. (2001, M) 10.15 MOVIE: Frantic. (1988, M) 1am Late Programs. 6am The King Of Queens. 7.00 Becker. 8.00 Seinfeld. 10.00 The King Of Queens. 11.00 Frasier. 11.50 The Traitors. 2.30pm Seinfeld. 3.00 The King Of Queens. 4.00 Becker. 5.00 Frasier. 6.00 Friends. 7.30 Thank God You’re Here. 8.30 The Big Bang Theory. 9.30 Seinfeld. 11.00 Frasier. Midnight Home Shopping. 1.30 MOVIE: My Spy. (2020, PG) 3.30 The Bold And The Beautiful. 4.30 Home Shopping. 5.30 Joseph Prince: New Creation Church. 9GO! (83) 6am The Age Of Innocence. Continued. (1993, PG) 8.00 The King Of Comedy. (1983, PG) 10.00 Mindscape. (2013, M) 11.50 Guilty Men. (2016, M, Spanish) 1.55pm Asterix: The Mansions Of The Gods. (2014, PG, French) 3.30 Passione. (2010, PG) 5.10 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 7.35 My Left Foot. (1989, M) 9.30 The Red Riding Trilogy: 1983. (2009, MA15+) 11.25 Bel Canto. (2018, MA15+) 1.20am The Curse Of Audrey Earnshaw. (2020, MA15+) 3.00 Late Programs. PEACH (52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Children’s Programs. 2pm Horrible Histories. 2.40 The Deep. 3.15 Winston Steinburger. 3.30 100% Wolf: Legend Of The Moonstone. 3.50 Draw With Will. 4.20 The Penguins Of Madagascar. 4.45 Mystery Lane. 5.05 Kung Fu Panda. 5.30 Miraculous. 5.50 Camp Lakebottom. 6.05 Secret Life Of Boys. 6.35 Operation Ouch! 7.00 Ace My Space. 7.35 The Fairly OddParents. 8.00 Kong: King Of The Apes. 8.20 Good Game Spawn Point. 8.45 Log Horizon. 10.25 The Legend Of Korra. 11.15 Close. ABC ME (23) 6am News Programs. 3pm News. 4.00 Afternoon Brie ng. 5.00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien. 6.00 ABC Evening News. 7.00 ABC National News. 8.00 Planet America. 8.45 ABC News Tonight. 9.00 ABC Nightly News. 9.30 Close Of Business. 10.00 The World. 10.30 World This Week. 11.00 News. 11.30 The Drum. 12.30am News. 12.45 Planet America. 1.30 Close Of Business. 2.00 DW News. 2.30 News. 2.45 Media Watch. 3.00 The World. 3.30 World This Week. 4.00 Late Programs. ABC NEWS (24) 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Postcards. 8.00 Garden Gurus. 8.30 The Block. 9.30 House Hunters Int. 10.30 Hello SA. 11.00 House In A Hurry. 11.30 Instant Dream House. Noon House Hunters Int. 1.00 Unsellable Houses. 2.00 My Lottery Dream Home. 3.00 The Block. 4.00 House In A Hurry. 4.30 Instant Dream House. 5.00 Fixer Upper. 6.00 House Hunters Int. 7.00 House Hunters. 7.30 Renovation Wild. 8.30 Building O The Grid. 9.30 Restored. 10.30 Lakefront Bargain Hunt. 11.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 11.30 American Adventures. 12.30pm Made In Italy. 1.00 The Streets With Dan Hong. 1.30 Dolce India. 2.00 American Feast. 2.30 Mexican Table. 3.30 Food Fight Club. 4.30 My Market Kitchen. 5.00 Mary Makes It Easy. 5.30 Comfort Food. 6.00 Taste Of Aust. 6.30 Food Unwrapped. 7.00 The Cook Up. 7.30 Come Dine With Me UK. 8.00 Poh & Co. 8.30 James Martin’s French Adventure. 9.30 River Cottage Australia. 10.30 The Cook Up. 11.00 Late Programs. 9LIFE (84) 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 News. 10.00 AM Agenda. 11.00 NewsDay. Noon NewsDay. 1.00 Chris Kenny Tonight. 2.00 Afternoon Agenda. 3.00 Paul Murray Live. 4.00 The Voice Countdown. 4.30 Business Now With Ross Greenwood. 5.00 Erin. 6.00 Peta Credlin. 7.00 The Rita Panahi Show. 8.00 The US Report. 9.00 The Media Show. 9.30 NewsNight. 10.00 NewsNight. 11.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.55 Kenya Wildlife Diaries. 10.50 Bamay. 11.15 MOVIE: Any Given Sunday. (1999, M) 2pm Shortland St. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Motown Magic. 3.25 Thalu. 3.40 Fresh Fairytales. 3.55 Pipi Ma. 4.00 The Untold Tales Of Tuteremoana. 4.30 Spartakus And The Sun Beneath The Sea. 5.00 Our Stories. 5.30 NITV News: Nula. 6.00 Niminjarra. 6.10 Bamay. 6.35 Kenya Wildlife Diaries. 7.30 MOVIE: Furry Vengeance. (2010, PG) 9.10 MOVIE: Big Mommas: Like Father, Like Son. (2011) 11.10 Late Programs. SKY NEWS (53) NITV (34) SBS FOOD (33) Please Note: Programs are correct at the time of print and are subject to change by the Networks. CONSUMER ADVICE (P) Pre-school (C) Children (PG) Parental Guidance Recommended (M) Mature Audiences (MA15+) Mature Audiences Only (R) Repeat (CC) Closed Captions (a) Adult themes (d) Drug references (h) Horror (s) Sex references (l) Language (m) Medical procedures (n) Nudity (v) Violence.

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Shortland St. Noon United Shades Of America. 1.30 Motherboard. 1.55 Unknown Amazon. 2.50 Cook Up Bitesize. 2.55 WorldWatch. 4.55 World’s Greatest Hotels. 5.50 Forged In Fire. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Hoarders. 9.20 Sex Tape Germany. 10.10 Transnational. 10.40 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. Stage 13. 2am Inside E ngham Prison. 3.05 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Australia’s Best Backyards. 8.00 Shopping. 8.30 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Harry’s Practice. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 House Of Wellness. 2.00 Discover With RAA Travel. 2.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.00 Escape To The Country. 4.00 Australia’s Best Backyards. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Home Shopping. 8.00 Healthy Homes Australia. 8.30 Buy To Build. 9.00 Reel Action. 9.30 Jake And The Fatman. 10.30 JAG. 12.30pm NCIS. 1.30 Bull. 2.30 Breaking Ooze. 2.45 Jake And The Fatman. 3.40 Diagnosis Murder. 5.30 JAG. 7.30 Bull. 8.30 NCIS. 9.25 NCIS: Los Angeles. 11.15 Star Trek: Discovery. 12.15am Home Shopping. 2.15 Diagnosis Murder. 4.05 JAG. 6am Gideon’s Way. 7.00 Cre o Dollar Ministries. 7.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. 8.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 9.00 Tennis. US Open. Day 11. 2.30pm My Favorite Martian. 3.00 Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman. 4.00 Antiques Roadshow. 4.30 Restoration Man. 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Mega Zoo. 8.30 MOVIE: My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2. (2016, PG) 10.25 MOVIE: Letters To Juliet. (2010, PG) 12.30am Late Programs. BOLD (51) 9GEM (82) 7TWO (62) VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.45pm The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.55 Shaun The Sheep. 7.05

Devastating scale of water buybacks revealed while critical questions go unanswered

The Federal Government has inadvertently revealed that damaging water buybacks will make up at least a third of water recovery under its revised Murray Darling Basin Plan, at a starting price exceeding $3 billion.

The startling revelation that government buyback spending could double under this proposal comes as serious questions emerge about how the Government will balance socio-economic impacts, and whether alternate proposals sought by the Government will be assessed before changes are brought before Parliament.

National Farmers’ Federation Water

Committee Chair, Malcolm Holm, said that in signalling a change to the legislative cap on buybacks, Minister Plibersek had shown her hand.

“The Minister has said last week the current 1500GL cap on buybacks will be lifted.

“Currently, they still have around 225GL of headroom under the cap, and a gap of 750GL to complete the plan. So by lifting the cap, the Minister is saying buybacks will exceed one third of remaining recovery.

“To launch headlong into buybacks of that scale would be devastating. Those caps and protections were put in place for a reason –

based on the maximum volume of buybacks communities could withstand.”

Meanwhile, Mr Holm said the admission that responses to a recent consultation had not yet been considered had left communities furious.

“The fact that buybacks are the focus when the Minister has over 1,000GL of buyback-free options sitting unread on her desk is a complete disgrace. The Minister is signing the death warrant for these towns and she hasn’t even reviewed the alternatives.

“Communities have done what the Government has asked here – they have done the legwork to give the Minister options. Instead

of acting in good faith and in a transparent way the Government is demonstrating it doesn’t care about farmers or communities.

“Those options should be given the time of day before blowing up the Plan and spending billions shutting down farms.”

Mr Holm said he remained hopeful that Parliament would force accountability and demand answers to important questions.

“As it stands, Minister Plibersek is asking the Parliament to sign a blank cheque to shut down farms. We think the cost to taxpayers will have to exceed $3 billion, but that’s just our estimate. We’re left

guessing because there’s no transparency.

“Both the Parliament and the community deserve better. They ought to have clarity on the extent of buybacks proposed, how socioeconomic impacts will be considered, and what engagement will occur to give communities a voice in this process.”

The NFF has written to Minister Plibersek posing 13 initial questions that now need answering in the wake of the Government’s initial announcement.

“There are a lot of gaps in information at the moment. That makes communities nervous, it makes food processors nervous, and it makes people who work in our

industries fear for their jobs.

“When state governments start leaving the table or participating conditionally based on community concerns, you know what’s been agreed is a bad deal. The question now is how bad, and can the Parliament step in to correct the course?

“We all want to see the plan complete, but we have a choice in how to get there. We want to see it done the smart way that delivers the water needed without taking food off the table in the middle of a cost-ofliving crisis,” Mr Holm concluded.

New Sportfshing Opportunities at Porters Creek Dam

A new catch and release sportfshery at Porters Creek Dam near Milton on the NSW South Coast is expected to become a popular destination for local and visiting anglers.

NSW DPI Fisheries Deputy Director General Sean Sloan said that the new fshery is the result of close work between the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Shoalhaven City Council.

“This is a new and exciting fshing catch and release location where anglers can target native Australian Bass,” Mr Sloan said.

“This new catch and release sportfshery has opened just in time

for the Australian Bass season opening on 1 September.

these iconic sportfsh.

“The work by DPI and Shoalhaven City Council

provide opportunities that can be enjoyed for generations to come.”

Shoalhaven City Council to maintain and promote fshing access at the dam.

“The dam will be managed in collaboration with the council as a catch and release fy and lure only fshery, that is, no bait fshing allowed,” Mr Sloan said.

“New signage will also

that the public is aware of these changes.

“DPI Fisheries Offcers will also be patrolling the area to ensure that these rules are being followed.”

“Stocking of juvenile Australian Bass in the dam has previously been undertaken by NSW DPI with assistance from the Shoalhaven Council.

“This work is part of the Native Fish Stocking program and has successfully established a productive fshery for

to create a new fshery at Porters Creek Dam will

Mr Sloan said DPI will continue to work with

be installed at Porters Creek Dam to ensure

DPI’s fsh stocking and access programs are supported with funds from the Recreational Fishing Trust and is a great example of fshing licence fees being re-invested back into improving recreational fshing.

The public is encouraged to report illegal or suspected illegal fshing activity to the Fishers Watch Phoneline on 1800 043 536 or report online via the form at: https://fal. cn/3gJWh

Extinction logging underway in Tallaganda State Forest

Critical habitat for the endangered Greater Glider is being logged in Tallaganda State Forest on the South Coast of NSW by Forestry Corporation despite it being one of only two large areas of habitat to have survived the 2019/20 bushfres. The World Wildlife Fund, Wilderness Australia and NSW Greens MP Sue Higginson have all written to the Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe, calling for an immediate stop to work in Tallaganda Forest while independent surveys can establish the location of Greater Glider habitat trees.

“The logging of Greater Glider Habitat in Tallaganda State Forest could be the nail in the coffn of extinction for Greater Gliders,” Greens MP and Spokesperson

for the Environment said. “Just last week the Biodiversity Conservation Act Review was tabled in Parliament and found that the laws in NSW are failing the environment and that native forest logging is damaging forest ecosystems and the habitat of native species. Now here we are looking at state sanctioned extinction logging underway in habitat that is critical to the survival of the endangered Greater Glider.

“Forestry Corporation have only recorded a single Greater Glider den tree in the 5,000 hectare area that they intend to log, this is completely at odds with most reports on the Greater Glider population in Tallaganda that show this population is just one of two large

populations remaining in the State.

“The Minister must use her powers to order a halt to the logging operations in Tallaganda so that this vast discrepancy in population reporting can be resolved, Forestry Corporation have either failed to conduct adequate surveys or they are willfully misleading the Government and people of NSW.

“The independent review of the Biodiversity Conservation Act headed up by Ken Henry AC explicitly stated that laws that have an objective to protect the environment must take precedence over laws that facilitate environmental harm. What is happening in Tallaganda is precisely what the review says needs to change.

Forestry Corporation have compiled with the letter of the Forestry Act and are now logging critical remnant habitat of an endangered species with impunity. We can’t keep destroying the habitat of species that are on the brink of extinction.

“I’ve written to the Minister and called for her to intervene now, to keep her promise of no new extinctions in NSW, because without the Government taking action now, Greater Gliders will be reduced to just one large population area in the entire state.

“If logging in Tallaganda continues, Greater Gliders will be pushed to extinction and this Government will be looking down the barrel of its own political failure.

ABARES Weekly Australian Climate, Water and Agricultural Update

For the week ending 30 August 2023, fronts and troughs brought isolated showers to south-eastern parts of the country. A high-pressure system kept the remainder of the country dry and clear.

Across cropping regions, rainfall totals of up to 15 millimetres were recorded in isolated areas in north-eastern New South Wales. Little to no rainfall was recorded in the remaining cropping regions. Given the lack of rainfall across many cropping regions in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia, these regions are continuing to see a gradual decline in soil moisture reserves. This represents an increased risk of declines in crop yields if follow-up rainfall is not received in the next few weeks.

The Bureau of Meteorology’s ENSO outlook remains at El Niño ALERT given that not all atmospheric indicators have reached El Niño thresholds. The sea surface temperature has exceeded El Niño thresholds in the tropical Pacifc. The Southern Oscillation

Workforce shortages worsen and grower sentiment plummets one year on from Jobs & Skills Summit

AUSVEG

Index is just below El Niño thresholds. In contrast, trade winds and cloudiness near Date Line are fuctuating closer to average and are yet to reach El Niño thresholds.

The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) index has been in the positive phase for the past two weeks, but this has to persist for several weeks to be declared a positive IOD event. A positive IOD, together with an El Niño, typically suppresses spring rainfall in central and eastern Australia. The expected onset of these climate drivers is infuencing the hot and dry outlook for spring.

Over the 8-days to 7 September 2023, fronts and troughs are expected to bring isolated showers to southern parts of the country. A high-pressure system is expected to bring mainly dry conditions to the remainder of the country.

Across most cropping regions, minimal rainfall totals of up to 10 millimetres are expected. These falls are not expected to have much beneft to crops and pastures as they are

unlikely to be suffcient to offset evaporative losses. Cropping regions in Queensland, northern New South Wales, northern Western Australia and western South Australia have experienced a dry August to date and have well below average levels of soil moisture. Crops and pastures in these areas will be disposed to heat and moisture stress, negatively affecting production potential.

Water storage levels in the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB) increased between 24 August 2023 and 31 August 2023 by 36 gigalitres (GL). Current volume of water held in storage is 21 026 GL. This is 2 percent or 457 GL less than at the same time last year.

Allocation prices in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke remained steady at $155 from 24 August 2023 to 31 August 2023. Prices are lower in the Goulburn-Broken and regions above the Barmah choke due to the binding of the Goulburn intervalley trade limit and Barmah choke trade constraint.

One year on from the Federal Government’s Jobs and Skills Summit, the crippling workforce shortages facing Australian vegetable growers have only worsened, and many growers are now reconsidering their future as vegetable producers.

An alarming sentiment survey conducted by AUSVEG, the vegetable peak industry body, has revealed recordlow morale among Australian vegetable growers, with labour shortages, workforce policy and legislative changes, increased compliance and rising operational costs major factors forcing growers to contemplate their commercial viability.

Appearing at the Senate Inquiry on Food Security in early August, AUSVEG highlighted how increasing costs of production, tightening margins and chronic labour shortages are making vegetable growers question their future in the sector, with more than 30 per cent of Australian vegetable growers now considering leaving the industry within the next 12 months.

The survey also highlighted that:

• 72 per cent are currently experiencing workforce shortages.

• 45 per cent rate their future viability with current workforce shortages as ‘poor to very poor’.

Ahead of the one-year anniversary of the Jobs and Skills Summit on Friday 1 September, the issues raised by AUSVEG in Canberra around workforce availability have still not been addressed, and are expected to deteriorate due to Labor’s recent policy changes that will narrow workforce options.

These new policies were a key concern highlighted by many growers in AUSVEG’s survey. The Working Holiday Maker program, PALM Scheme and overseas student visas, which allow Australian farmers to fll critical labour shortages with overseas workers, have all undergone signifcant changes in recent months.

AUSVEG CEO

Michael Coote said the dire survey results were not overly surprising given the signifcant challenges that growers had faced over recent years.

“We’re a year on from the Jobs and Skills Summit, and unfortunately the only changes the Government have made in that time are making the problem worse, not better,” said Mr Coote.

“Fire, drought, food, rain, hail, labour shortages, volatile markets, biosecurity breaches, unprecedented cost increases to inputs, and many other issues can have detrimental impacts on farmers and rural communities.”

“The toll is showing on

vegetable growers, and if even close to 30 per cent of them move away from vegetable production, frequent fresh produce shortages will become the new norm, and Australian families will bear the brunt with higher prices for their produce.”

“While the Agriculture Minister is trying to work with industry, the Albanese Government has not acted on feedback from growers when they’re already being crushed by rising input costs, severe weather and price pressure from the retailers, among other challenges.”

“Vegetable growers just want to be able to grow healthy produce and remain competitive in an increasingly complex business environment, but without an adequate supply of workers, there is a risk that fresh produce will not be planted and families will face higher food costs.”

AUSVEG is calling on the Federal Government to genuinely work with the vegetable industry on workforce policy reforms that uphold the highest standards of worker welfare while also meeting the needs of growers.

“The Australian vegetable sector is forecast to grow by at least an additional billion dollars in annual farm-gate value by 2030, but if we’re hamstrung by workforce availability that potential to grow the Australian economy will be lost,” said Mr Coote.

©Commonwealth of Australia 2023, Australian Bureau of Meteorology Issued: 30/8/2023

Note: The rainfall analyses and associated maps utilise data contained in the Bureau of Meteorology climate database, the Australian Data Archive for Meteorology (ADAM). The analyses are initially produced automatically from real-time data with limited quality control. They are intended to provide a general overview of rainfall across Australia as quickly as possible after the observations are received. For further information go to http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/ rainfall

NSW DPI allows restricted movement of hives out of almond farms

NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) will allow beekeepers to move beehives out of recently declared surveillance (purple) zones in almond pollination areas to manage biosecurity risks.

NSW DPI Chief Plant Protection Offcer Shane Hetherington said the recent identifcation of four Varroa mite infestations at Euston, Euroley, Nericon and Balranald had triggered the creation of eradication (red) and

surveillance (purple) emergency zones.

“We know the infested hives we have identifed by tracing movements from the Kempsey region have only been in these almond orchards for a short time and with plenty of foral resources the bees would not have travelled far,” Dr Hetherington said.

“That means the risk of them transferring mites to hives outside the red zone to hives in the purple zone is negligible.

“However, the foral resources are rapidly

running out as the almond orchards fnish the fowering period and bees will begin to rob neighboring hives which creates a signifcant biosecurity risk.

“The Emergency Order would normally prevent the movement of all surrounding hives out of eradication and surveillance zones as a precaution.

“We’ve conducted a thorough risk assessment and amended the Emergency Order to allow movement of hives out of the four new surveillance (purple)

zones to reduce the chances of bees from those few infested hives mixing with bees from other hives and spreading the mite.”

Changes to the Emergency Order introduced today allow beekeepers to move hives out of the four surveillance zones at Euston, Euroley, Nericon and Balranald, provided:

• The beekeeper lodges a movement declaration via Movement of bees (nsw.gov.au) for each load of bees PRIOR to movement

• The hives are moved to a General Emergency (blue) zone site

• Hives are moved directly to the destination site and not moved off that site until approved by NSW DPI

• Beekeepers must carry a copy of the hive movement declaration with them for the duration of the move

• The beekeeper alcohol washes up to 64 hives on arrival and reports the results to NSW DPI

• The beekeeper takes and retains

photograph of at least one alcohol wash which is time and datestamped and shows the approximate location

• Beekeepers should refer to the Emergency Order for full details of movement requirements

These changes do not allow movement of hives out of any other NSW surveillance (purple) or eradication (red) zones. Sites that receive hives from the four purple zones will be monitored by NSW DPI.

REA Group launches new report outlining fve priority measures to ease the New South Wales rental crisis

REA Group today launched a new report looking at the key issues contributing to the New South Wales rental crisis and offering solutions to solve some of the housing affordability and access issues faced by many renters.

The report, Measures to ease the rental market crisis, was produced by REA Group Senior Economist, Paul Ryan, following a workshop attended by rental market experts and industry leaders. Participants included a broad spectrum of the property sector who were able to provide valuable insights into the challenges experienced on both the demand and supply sides of the market and offer measures to address critical issues.

Kul Singh, REA Group Chief Customer Offcer, said this program of work was in direct response to calls from customers to unite the sector behind industryinformed solutions to help shape policy and affect meaningful change.

“REA Group is in a unique position with access to our residential real estate and property

developer customers, as well as Australia’s largest group of property seekers on realestate. com.au. We wanted to

property managers in order to safeguard the rental experience.”

“Fundamentally, Australia needs

Senior Economist.

“Competition for rental properties remains strong with substantially more potential renters

on top of general price infation, is putting signifcant pressure on rental households with current conditions set to exacerbate fnancial stress.

“Compounding the issue, construction rates have slowed across the country with 72,000 fewer dwellings built since the onset of the pandemic compared to what would have been implied from prepandemic construction rates.

“The good news is, we are starting to see

confdence in the market,” he added.

“Targeted and considered policy reform has the potential to unlock housing supply, which is why the report’s industry-informed recommendations prioritise improved housing utilisation and availability, coordinated government planning processes to incentivise fast and effective development, and ongoing encouraged investment. Alongside these reforms, we can improve renter tenure security and the suitability of homes with a focus on energy effciency and higher minimum standards.

bring together diverse perspectives to look at the near-term and address what we can do now to ensure better housing outcomes for all Australians.

“A thriving rental marketplace benefts renters, investors, our customers, and ultimately, the broader Australian community and economy. We need to fnd more effcient and effective ways to increase supply, encourage investment, and attract and retain

more homes, and we need more rental accommodation,” said Paul Ryan, REA Group

competing for each rental listing than before the pandemic in New South Wales. Rent increases,

investors return, which is an important support for housing supply and shows long-term

“It’s pleasing to see a number of these areas on the national agenda of our regulators and policy makers with the recent National Cabinet announcement to boost housing a supply a welcomed step forward,” Kul concluded.

To view the full report, scan the QR code bellow.

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Smooth Sailing: Family Holiday on a Cruise Ship in Australia

By Liam Jennings

When it comes to family holidays, few experiences rival the excitement and adventure of setting sail on a cruise ship. In Australia, cruising has become an increasingly popular choice for families seeking a stressfree and all-inclusive vacation. From exploring the breath-taking coastline to indulging in a variety of onboard activities, a family holiday on a cruise ship offers something for everyone, regardless of age or interests.

One of the most appealing aspects of a cruise holiday is the

spa treatments, ftness classes, or simply relax on deck, knowing their kids are well taken care of and having a blast. Cruising provides an excellent opportunity for families to spend quality time together without distractions. With no internet or mobile phone service while at sea, parents and children can disconnect from the digital world and focus on connecting with one another. Families can enjoy meals together, partake in exciting shore excursions, and create lasting memories while exploring new destinations side by side.

Cruise ships cater to the diverse tastes of their passengers, including the

Many cruise lines offer educational programs and workshops designed to engage children in learning activities while having fun. Kids can participate in interactive science experiments, marine biology sessions, and cultural workshops that broaden their horizons and spark their curiosity.

Safety is a top priority on cruise ships, giving parents peace of mind during their holiday.

Most ships have stringent security measures and well-trained staff to ensure the well-being of all passengers, including children. With 24/7 medical facilities onboard, parents can rest assured that assistance is

amenities, activities, and entertainment are included in the fare, making budgeting and planning more manageable. Families don’t have to worry about constantly pulling out their wallets; they can simply focus on enjoying their time together.

With no airport transfers, check-ins, or lengthy journeys between destinations, cruising eliminates much of the hassle associated with traditional travel. Families can enjoy the convenience of unpacking only once while visiting multiple destinations, allowing them to make the most of their time and energy on exploring and making memories.

Holidaying on a cruise ship as a family in Australia offers an extraordinary and enriching experience for everyone involved. With diverse destinations, activities tailored to all ages, and the convenience of all-

opportunity to visit multiple destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking. Australia’s extensive coastline offers a plethora of cruise itineraries, taking families to iconic cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, as well as stunning tropical islands like the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef. Each destination presents unique experiences and adventures, making the journey as exciting as the destinations themselves.

Modern cruise ships are like foating resorts, offering a vast array of activities and entertainment suitable for all family members.

From kids’ clubs and teen lounges to water parks and thrilling waterslides, children of all ages are bound to fnd endless fun on board. Meanwhile, parents can indulge in

pickiest eaters – children. Kid-friendly dining options are plentiful, with dedicated children’s menus and fexible meal times. Whether it’s pizza by the pool, ice cream sundaes, or themed dinner nights, kids will be delighted by the range of tasty treats available. A cruise holiday provides valuable educational opportunities for children. Visiting different ports of call exposes them to various cultures, histories, and natural wonders.

readily available in case of any medical concerns.

While children are entertained in supervised kids’ clubs, parents can take advantage of some well-deserved relaxation time. Cruise ships offer a range of adult-only spaces, including tranquil spa areas, sun decks, and lounges where parents can unwind and enjoy some quiet moments together.

A cruise holiday is a truly all-inclusive experience. Once onboard, most

inclusive travel, a cruise holiday provides the perfect opportunity for families to bond, explore, and relax together.

The joy of discovering new destinations while enjoying quality time with loved ones creates a truly unforgettable adventure that will be cherished for a lifetime. So, pack your bags, set sail, and embark on a smooth-sailing family holiday that promises endless fun and memories to last a lifetime.

Be a real superhero this September – dress up to fght Muscular Dystrophy

impacted by Muscular Dystrophy (MD).

Muscular Dystrophy Australia

Whether you’ve always wished to be Wonder Woman or fancied yourself as The Phantom, now is the prime time to join thousands of Aussies dressing up to do good for Muscular Dystrophy Australia’s (MDA’s) National Superhero Week which runs 4–10 September.

This fun initiative helps raise awareness and valuable funds to fnd a cure for the 60 genetic diseases and conditions that fall under the Muscular Dystrophy ‘umbrella’ which cause progressive – and irreversible – muscle wastage. Funds raised also support people

Heroes at childcare centres, kinders, schools, workplaces and sporting clubs are encouraged to sign up to organise a fundraiser where everyone ‘capes up’ or takes on an alternate superhero mission. Using the resources available at superheroweek. org.au your sponsor / fundraisers can read books or accrue steps, or do anything to help raise funds for MD.

MDA’s founder Boris Struk said this annual fundraising event supports the organisation’s important work towards a world without Muscular Dystrophy.

“Every dollar raised provides resources, advocacy and funding for research to help in the lives of those affected by the neuromuscular

disorder,” he said.

“MDA looks after more than 30,000 Australians ¬currently living with Muscular Dystrophy and

625 children and adults in Australia live with this condition caused by mutations in genes that control the production

shine a light on a serious condition that robs people of their mobility, their goals and dreams.”

The sky’s the limit with how you, our supporters can raise funds. You can dress as a superhero every day for the week or host a superhero themed event, a sausage sizzle or your own unique fundraising activity. Join the family of Muscular Dystrophy Supporters and make a difference.

One of the many benefciaries of MDA’s work, Lisa, said MDA has been an incredible support to her family after son Oscar’s diagnosis.

“MDA has provided education to Oscar’s school community as to how best to care for and make their practices inclusive for him and has provided funds for a world leading neuromuscular clinic at The Royal Children’s Hospital, where we have received fabulous medical care and support.”

To sign up for National Superhero Week 2023 or make a donation, go to superheroweek. org.au, where you can also fnd posters (under ‘Resources’) that you can download, print and display.

their families, supporting them in their challenging journeys.

“Around one in every

of proteins to maintain healthy muscle tissue.

“National Superhero Week is a fun way to

“MDA has been a great support to our family to link us to available support services for us, as well as introducing us to other families on a similar health journey,” she said.

The MDA online shop (mda.org.au/ shopwithus) has accessories, including capes, bandanas and hats, proceeds from sales contribute to research to fnding a cure to Muscular Dystrophy.

NORPA wins prestigious national performing arts award.

Northern Rivers based theatre company NORPA has won a prestigious PAC Australia IMPACT Award for ‘Love For One Night’, its sell-out 2022 show at the Eltham Hotel. The annual national awards celebrate performing arts leadership and innovation, with a focus on lasting community impact.

NORPA was recognised for its innovative presentation of ‘Love For One Night’, a site specifc show at the Eltham Hotel. The hotel, located in a community of just 343 people, was transformed into an outdoor theatre and became the backdrop for a project that provided paid employment opportunities for more than 50 artists and

creatives, reaching an audience of almost 4,000 people.

Following the devastation of the 2022 mega-foods in which NORPA lost its Lismore home, theatre, offce and equipment, NORPA turned to what it does best; creating exceptional performances for its community that supported healing,

coming together and partnership.

“We are incredibly proud of the entire NORPA and Love For One Night team, led by Artistic Director Julian Louis, and our partners at the Eltham Hotel. We are thrilled their work has been recognised nationally,” said NORPA Executive Director Libby Lincoln.

“So many aspects made Love For One Night special. Not only was it produced during a time of disaster response and immense uncertainty for the Northern Rivers region, Love For One Night was realised through an innovative and unique partnership between a theatre company and a country pub. The theme of ‘love’

intensifed at a time when so many had experienced the heartache and trauma of the foods.”

PAC Australia’s Executive Director, Katherine Connor said “Congratulations to all of our winners, who embody the essence of creating impactful and outstanding artistic work in their communities and beyond.”

Oscar is one of the benefciaries of Super Hero Week which is run by Muscular Dystrophy Australia

Oscar is one of the benefciaries of Super Hero Week which is run by Muscular Dystrophy Australia ‘Love for One Night’ by NORPA at The Eltham Hotel. Photo Kate Holmes.

Spaghetti Circus show a Monumental success!

Spaghetti Circus’ show Monumental has wrapped up a hugely successful sell-out season with close to 2000 people enjoying 10 action-packed performances across two weeks. An innovative presenting partnership with Brunswick Picture House attracted new audiences from interstate and across the region, allowing Spaghetti Circus to showcase the skill of its incredibly talented emerging performers.

Monumental featured Spaghetti Circus’ Performance Troupe of 15 performers aged 12 – 21 years. Working in an ensemble, the troupe developed spectacular new skills, which

evolved throughout the season. Directed by Spenser Inwood from award-winning company A Good Catch Circus, Monumental also featured local musicians Sue Simpson and Melia Naughton, who composed and then performed the original score live on stage.

Monumental celebrated unsung heroines and heroes in our society with the troupe building circus monuments in their honour.

“If you could bottle the spirit of what happened at Brunswick Picture House over the last three weeks, it would be an elixir for life! We have witnessed pure joy on and off stage, and those young performers have had an experience that will stay with them for life.” said Brett Haylock, Brunswick Picture House owner and Monumental Co-Producer.

“The whole

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SOUND OF FREEDOM (M) NFT

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TURTLES: MUTANT MAYHEM PG (NFT)

community has supported this sell-out season; it is a pleasure to watch creative, confdent and healthy kids supporting each other

it corresponds to the performance, and you can feel it,” said performer Jazzy (13). “Because we are relatively young, it also

of what we have done and so happy that people have come to see it.”

“It’s the frst big show I’ve ever done, so it feels really special and

taught us so many things we haven’t done before,” said Amani (16).

“Congratulations, Spaghetti CircusMonumental was a fantastic show!” said local creative Valley Lipcer after seeing the show, “I found the choreography and rhythmic pacing of the show incredibly pleasurable to watch and the accompanying original soundtrack mesmerisingly beautiful and layered. They are a great group of emerging performers whose energy, commitment and skill drove a very professional production.”

while having FUN,” said Alice Cadwell, Spaghetti Circus General Manager.

“It’s great to perform to an audience that is so excited because

inspires other young kids. They see us and say, ‘I want to do that!’”

“I’ve enjoyed learning new tricks,” said Jayson (17). “We’re really proud

exciting,” said Ruben (13).

“It has been a lot of fun. Working with A Good Catch gave us so many creative ideas and

If you would like your child to experience the joy of Spaghetti Circus, enrolments for Term 4 after school classes are now open (Early Bird discount until Sept 29). More info and bookings at www.spaghetticircus. com

Home Shows

JON STEVENS: THE NOISEWORKS & INXS COLLECTION

Saturday September 9, 2023 @ 7.30pm

HANS: DISCO SPEKTAKULAR TOUR

Thursday, September 21, 2023 @ 7:00pm

SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR: HOPE

THE EQUALIZER 3 (MA15+) NFT

THE NUN (M) NFT

Friday, September

Spaghetti Circus ‘Monumental’ performers. Photo Hamish McCormick

Bananaland - A new musical comedy

Razor sharp – irreverent – uplifting

Meet Ruby Semblance, a 21-year-old idealist. She believes in art, music and angry choreography. Ruby is the lead singer/ songwriter of Kitty Litter. Not Kitty Litter ‘the band’ mind you –according to Ruby, an “Onstage Conceptual Art / Music Oriented Happening”.

If that sounds unappealing, you’re right. Kitty Litter have been together for four years, have played fve hundred shows, and have one fan. One.

One fateful day Kitty Litter take the stage to be greeted by a sold-out audience… of small children. It turns out their furious protest song “Bananaland” has accidently become a hit on the kids’ music charts!

Is Kitty Litter destined to become the next

Wiggles? Spoiler: yes. And it’s our total delight as the audience to witness them rail against this destiny. Do they allow themselves

to be consumed with the notion of ‘selling out’ or do they buy into their accidental ‘kids’ band’ fame?

And whilst we’re on

the topic… if you think you’re coming to a show for kids, think again. The Kitty Litter to kids’ band journey is a rollercoaster romp full of heart,

music, comedy, pathos and lovable characters… with plenty of ‘choice’ words and cheeky ‘adultfriendly’ content thrown in to make this unlike

any musical you’ve seen before.

BANANALAND is a celebration of the glorious absurdity of following an impossible dream, featuring a knockout score by Kate Miller-Heidke and her collaborator Keir Nuttall – the award-winning song writing team behind Muriel’s Wedding The Musical and multiple platinum selling albums. It is directed by industry giant Simon Phillips, internationally renowned for his work on large-scale musicals including Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and Ladies in Black and famed for his stunning visual style and innovative staging. For tickets and info:

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Max Crus is a Clarence Valley-based wine writer and Grape Expectations is now in its 26th year of publication. Find out more about Max or sign up for his weekly reviews and musings by visiting maxcrus.com.au

Deal with your jolly trolley Molly.

Well, there goes another public holiday, dang, and what can the Nats whinge about now?

Anyway, congratulations to the Matildas who by now will hopefully have secured the number three spot in the World Cup, Sam Kerr’s face will be on our $100 notes and three quarters of Australians believe Mackenzie Arnold really is our Minister for Defence.

But life goes on and

Hare Raising Yarra Valley Shiraz 2019, $20. The cartoon label is straight from a kids book and they will love it, but fear not, kids know that wine tastes awful.

Grown-ups on the other hand will fnd their $20 more than amply rewarded with adult , lighter bodied shiraz. 9.2/10.

Hare Raising Yarra

we can now get back to important things such as, um, shopping trolleys. There are two types of people in the world. No, not National Party voters and those born after 1950. I refer to people who don’t put their shopping trolleys away after they’ve loaded the groceries into the car, and those who want to punch them.

Co-incidentally often the latter also want to punch National Party voters, indeed both groups want

Valley Chardonnay, $20. The quirky labels are nonetheless quite alluring, and it’s hard not to look at them more closely. Job done and if you take one home you’ll fnd even better value than the shiraz. 9.3/10.

Wildfower Western Australia Sauvignon

to do that, which begs the question what do National Party voters do with their shopping trolleys? But I digress.

How inconsiderate is that?

How often have you delighted in fnding a convenient parking spot only to discover that some rude, inconsiderate, lazy, annoying, thoughtless, entitled twat has left their trolley in the way?

How hard can it be?

Okay, if you’re disabled

Blanc Semillon 2021, $22. How refreshing to move into spring accompanied by a new wave of sauvignon blancs. Or should that be sauvignons blanc?

Whatever, bring on spring, the wildfowers and the Wildfowers, and most of all the wild sauv’ blancs, or sauvs’ blanc. 9.3/10.

or have a million screaming kids and 17 bags of shopping to ft into the V8 diesel Land Crusher, you might be forgiven, and counselled about how to raise kids and to think about the planet but even these people put their trolleys away…when they are being watched.

People who don’t put their trolleys away are likely also litterers…when no-one is watching.

The same people who

Wildfower WA Pinot Grigio 2023, $22. Pinot grigio is the new simple white you have when you are having simple fare on a lazy Sunday lunch. You don’t have to think about it much, even less than say, sauvignon blanc, but you can if you want to. 9.2/10. Longview Adelaide Hills

leave their rubbish on the table in the food court. The same people who stand still in the middle of the travelator or stand blocking the exit yacking to their National Party friends.

And this highlights another issue with trolley etiquette, there is invariably room on travelators to park your trolley to the left and allow people who have things to do in their lives apart from stopping and smelling roses and cooking

Devil’s Elbow Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, $30. You have to go out of your way to go around Devil’s Elbow now, and likely the site of the most truck rollovers in the country is not as dangerous as it was, but it is nicely memorialised in this cabernet, perfect for reminiscing your own

Max Crus

oil from KFC, but do they?

Never.

There is one other group too who should be allowed some latitude when leaving their trolleys in the way of other car-parkers, those who have just shopped at Dan’s and banged their shins so often on the stupid bit at the bottom of Dan’s trolleys that they can no longer walk without discomfort.

What’s that all about?

Bang your shins on these :

devilish deeds. 9.4/10. Longview Adelaide Hills Whippet Sauvignon Blanc 2023, $23. This is a modern and restrained SB and almost as much fun as a motorcycle ride through those same Adelaide hills in which it is produced. Cheaper too. Woof. 9.2/10.

OMBUDSMAN WELCOMES PAYMENT TIMES

Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson, wholeheartedly supports the call to overhaul the Payment Times Reporting Act and welcomes recommendations to make the data more useful for small business.

“Finance is the oxygen of enterprise. Cash fow is vital to the survival of small and family businesses, yet this sobering review by Dr Craig Emerson fnds there has been no signifcant improvement by big business to pay their small business customers in a timely way,” Mr Billson said.

“The original intention of the Payment Times Register was to improve the performance of big business but it has so far failed. Dr Emerson has produced a thoughtful road map to get this ambition back on track.”

The review was released today by Small Business Minister Julie Collins and Mr Billson commends Dr Emerson and the review team for their engagement, rigour and perspicacity.

“Almost 40% of the requests for assistance to our offce relate to payment times and payment disputes and as Dr Emerson has noted, late payments are a major source of fnancial and emotional stress for small-business owners and have fow-on consequences throughout the economy,” Mr Billson said.

“Sadly, Dr Emerson’s key fnding aligns with what we have been saying, that the performance of many big businesses in paying small businesses has been woeful.”

Dr Emerson’s report fnds: ‘there is no empirical evidence of a signifcant improvement in the payment terms and times of large businesses in respect of their smallbusiness suppliers’.

It also says: ‘Large businesses that do not pay their small-business suppliers quickly are using their market power to obtain a cashfow advantage over smallbusiness suppliers, regarding them as a cheap source of fnance’.

“Dr Emerson’s call for an overhaul of the ‘poorly functioning’ and ‘almost useless’ Register constrained by the legal design, aligns with our recommendation to the

inquiry for the Register to provide meaningful information that can easily be understood and applied by small business, regulators and the community.

“We agree with Dr Emerson the Register has ‘untapped potential’ that can be realised through the reforms he has suggested to deliver more accessible, accurate and useful information that will give big business an incentive to lift its game.

“ASBFEO is the only organisation that has dedicated time and resources to unpack the current complicated data-sets and tell the grim story of poor payment performance and a lack of meaningful improvement since the Register was established.

“Off the back of our work to analyse and communicate the economy-wide big business payment performance to their small business suppliers, we have championed a ‘good business pays’ campaign approach modelled on and informed by the UK experience and are well placed shine a spotlight on individual business performance.

“We particularly note that some big businesses

told Dr Emerson’s review they wanted to be able to compare their performance against others.

“Given that desire, we particularly welcome Dr Emerson’s recommendation to ‘foster a culture of prompt payment’ through an explicit responsibility being given to ‘publicise the worst and best payers’.

“We are ideally placed to bring into operation a “name, proclaim and shame” scheme that drives better payment performance in support of a more effective and reformed Register.”

As Dr Emerson’s review says: ‘The slowest payers would be named and shamed, while the fastest payers would be named and praised. Publicising the worst and best payers uses both reputational sanction and reward to infuence the payment

practices of businesses, since the reputation of a business matters.’

“Celebrating those big businesses that do the right thing will recognise their timely payment performance and put pressure on those with poor payment records. There are still too many big businesses who make small businesses wait an astounding 120 days or more to be paid,” Mr Billson said.

“A similar system

operates in the UK and has been highly effective and has made paying small-business suppliers quickly part of positive corporate reputations and the environmental, social and governance (ESG) obligations of large businesses.’”

Mr Billson said he also supported other recommendations in the review to better protect the rights of small businesses regarding unfair trading practices and unfair contract terms, facilitating the inclusion of a dedicated small business channel into the Australian Government’s proposed Designated Complaints function and increasing the adoption of eInvoicing.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson

Unleashing Power and Luxury Down Under: The Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé

By Jeff Gibbs

A Heritage Reimagined

While the 2024 MercedesAMG GT Coupe retains the classic long-bonnet, cab-backward design that characterized its predecessor, it has undergone a complete transformation. This second-generation coupe shares the majority of its hardware with the new Mercedes-AMG SL roadster, a vehicle already turning heads in Australian showrooms. This new GT is the ffth dedicated AMG model, joining the ranks of the SL, the GT 4-Door sedan, the original GT, and the iconic gull winged SLS coupe. It’s exclusively available as a coupe, while the new SL takes over the role of the GT Roadster, now providing four seats in both top-end two-door models.

Bigger, More Practical, and Luxurious

The 2024 AMG GT boasts a more substantial footprint, making it a more practical grand tourer. Its dimensions have expanded, measuring

4728mm in length, 1984mm in width, 1354mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2700mm. This growth offers not only more interior space but also a roomier luggage compartment, making it a genuine long-distance grand tourer rather than a strict two-seater sports car. The larger glasshouse enhances visibility in all directions, contributing to a more enjoyable driving experience. Additionally, the inclusion of optional 2+2 seating and a generous boot capacity ranging from 321 to 675 litres (with

CRAIGS FLOAT HIRE

rear seats folded) further amplifes its practicality. An electrically operated tailgate with handsfree operation adds convenience to the mix.

Heart-Pounding Power

Under the hood, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe offers two variants of AMG’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, meticulously handcrafted at Affalterbach, in line with the “one man, one engine” philosophy. The range-topping GT 63 4MATIC+ delivers a staggering 430 kW of power and a massive 800 Nm of torque, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 315 km/h.

The GT 55 4MATIC+, with 350 kW and 700 Nm of torque, is no slouch either, accomplishing the 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.9 seconds and hitting a top speed of 295 km/h. Both versions feature AMG’s SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G nine-speed automatic transmission, offering precise and quick gear shifts.

Innovative Aero Dynamics

The 2024 AMG GT Coupe comes equipped

with a cutting-edge active aerodynamics package designed to balance the often-conficting requirements of drag reduction, downforce,

Dynamics and Handling

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe offers an array of dynamic technologies to enhance the driving experience. The AMG

active rear-axle steering further improves manoeuvrability at low speeds and stability at high speeds. Composite brake discs, directional perforation for heat dissipation, and a range of wheel and tire options ensure exceptional stopping power and control.

Interior Elegance and Technology

Inside the cabin, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe offers a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. The centre console features an 11.9-inch multimedia touch-screen with the MBUX operating system, while the digital instrument cluster allows for personalized main views, including specifc layouts for ‘AMG Performance’ and ‘AMG TRACK PACE.’

cooling effciency, and low wind noise. The AIRPANEL system features two parts –vertical slats hidden behind the lower air intake and horizontal louvres behind the upper air intake. These elements remain closed to minimize air resistance but open to maximize airfow when extra cooling is needed, optimizing both performance and effciency.

Furthermore, an adjustable rear spoiler integrated into the boot lid adapts its position based on road speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, and steering angle, ensuring stability, and minimizing air resistance.

DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode selector includes settings like Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport +, Individual, and RACE, catering to a wide range of driving preferences.

The new GT features a fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheeldrive system with an electromechanically controlled clutch, allowing it to be driven as a traction-oriented all-wheel drive or as a pure rear-wheel drive. Its multi-link suspension, forged aluminium components, and active roll stabilization ensure excellent stability and response at high speeds.

Adding to its agility,

This “hyper analogue” cockpit combines classic design elements with the latest digital interfaces, creating an environment that immerses the driver in both luxury and technology.

Conclusion

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe is more than just a car; it’s a symphony of power, precision, and practicality. With its refned aesthetics, remarkable powertrain options, and cutting-edge aerodynamics, it redefnes the boundaries of grand touring. As it prepares to make its European debut in early 2024 and arrive in Australian showrooms soon after, the AMG GT Coupe marks a new chapter in the storied history of MercedesAMG, offering a thrilling driving experience for those who demand the best.

Unleash the Beast, Embrace the Grace – AMG GT Coupe

Electrifying Excellence: Unveiling the 2024 Ioniq 5 N Electric Hot Hatch

By Jeff Gibbs

In a groundbreaking leap into the world of high-performance electric vehicles, Hyundai is set to redefne the boundaries of electrifcation with the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N electric hot hatch. This remarkable vehicle not only marks the debut of Hyundai’s N performance division in the electric realm but also takes its place as the most expensive Hyundai ever offered in Australia. Let’s delve into the details of this electrifying revelation.

A Price Tag to Match the Power

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N has been positioned at a lofty price point, starting at $111,000 before on-road costs. This fgure represents a signifcant leap compared to its sibling, the Ioniq 5 Techniq all-wheel drive, on which it is based – a price difference of $31,500. In the context of Hyundai’s Australian lineup, the Ioniq 5 N comfortably assumes the title of the most expensive Hyundai ever, surpassing even the Ioniq 6 Epiq electric sedan, which starts at $88,000 before on-road costs. Furthermore, it more than doubles the price of the top-tier Hyundai i30 N petrol hot hatch, priced at $53,700 before on-roads.

In the realm of electric performance, the Ioniq 5 N fnds itself in the company of its Kia EV6 GT counterpart, yet it carries a heftier price tag. While the EV6 GT starts at $99,590 plus on-road costs, the Ioniq 5 N’s price is estimated to approach $120,000 drive-away, depending on the registration location.

Supremacy in Performance

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is not just defned by its price;

it is a powerhouse of performance. Standing as the largest vehicle ever to don the Hyundai N high-performance badge, the Ioniq 5 N boasts dimensions that surpass the i30 N hatchback by 400mm, offering both increased cabin space and road presence.

Under its sleek exterior, the Ioniq 5 N houses a formidable powertrain

coinciding with the announcement of the Hyundai N division at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2015.

During this 12-hour window, starting at 12:00 pm AEST and concluding at midnight, prospective buyers will have the chance to confgure their desired specifcations and secure their place in the queue

The Drift King’s Seal of Approval

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is poised to make its debut at the World Time Attack Challenge at Sydney Motorsport Park, where renowned

TESLA EXPANDS ACCESS TO 30 SUPERCHARGERS FOR NON-TESLA ELECTRIC VEHICLES IN AUSTRALIA

Tesla, the trailblazing

American electric vehicle manufacturer, has signifcantly broadened the accessibility of its Supercharger network in Australia, allowing electric vehicles from rival manufacturers to recharge at almost half of its charging stations. This expansion represents a signifcant step in enhancing electric vehicle charging infrastructure across the continent, as Tesla’s pilot program extends its reach to nearly every mainland jurisdiction.

In January 2023, Tesla made a pioneering announcement, designating fve of its approximately 50 Supercharger locations in Australia to support all electric cars equipped with a CCS fast-charging socket. This compatibility encompasses nearly every new batterypowered vehicle available for purchase in the Australian market, with the exception of the Nissan Leaf.

Australia, except for Tasmania and the Northern Territory.

Tesla offers two versions of Superchargers in Australia, including the V2, capable of delivering up to 120 kW, and the V3, which can provide an impressive 250 kW charging rate.

For drivers of non-Tesla electric cars, utilizing these Superchargers comes at a cost of 79 cents per kilowatt-hour. However, Tesla has introduced a subscription plan, priced at $9.99 per month, that reduces the charging cost to 66 cents per kilowatthour for non-Tesla drivers.

featuring dual electric motors that produce a staggering 478 kW of power and an impressive 770 Nm of torque in N Grin Boost mode. This translates to a spine-tingling 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 3.4 seconds, frmly establishing the Ioniq 5 N as a force to be reckoned with on the road.

Exclusive Pre-Sale Opportunity

Hyundai Australia has scheduled an exclusive “online pre-sale” for the Ioniq 5 N, commencing on September 15, 2023, marking what is referred to as the “N Birthday,”

with a $2000 deposit. Optional extras include a panoramic ‘Vision Roof’ for $2000 and matte paint for $1000. As a special incentive for pre-sale customers, Hyundai is offering a gift package valued at $1000, comprising two Hyundai N-branded Pelican hard cases, a torch, and additional N merchandise.

A comprehensive list of standard equipment will be disclosed closer to the vehicle’s launch.

The Ioniq 5 N will be available in a range of captivating colours, including Performance Blue Matte, Performance Blue, Abyss Black,

drift and racing driver Keiichi Tsuchiya, famously known as the “Drift King,” will take the wheel for a series of exhilarating demonstration laps. This event marks the beginning of a new era for Hyundai, one where electrifcation and highperformance seamlessly converge.

As the Ioniq 5 N electrifes the Australian automotive landscape, it signifes not just the evolution of electric vehicles but also Hyundai’s unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation.

Since then, Tesla has further reinforced its commitment to this initiative by adding an additional 25 Supercharger locations to the list, resulting in a total of 30 accessible charging stations out of the 63 located throughout Australia. This expansion now benefts electric vehicle owners across every jurisdiction in mainland

Tesla vehicle owners also beneft from reduced charging rates, typically ranging from 58 to 70 cents per kilowatt-hour, depending on the specifc location. To facilitate easy access to this expanded charging network, Tesla provides an online map showcasing the 30 Supercharger locations available to all electric cars, ensuring seamless recharging capabilities for electric vehicle owners across various suburbs and states in Australia.

Cyber Gray, Ecotronic Gray, Atlas White Matte, Atlas White, Gravity Gold Matte, and Soultronic Orange.

Could a cancer drug hold the key to a HIV cure?

WEHI

An existing blood cancer drug has shown promise in killing ‘silent’ HIV cells and delaying reinfections – a signifcant pre-clinical discovery that could lead to a future cure for the disease.

Hidden HIV cells, known as latent infection, are responsible for the virus permanently remaining in the body and cannot be treated by current therapy options. These hibernating, infected cells are the reason why people living with HIV require life-long treatment to suppress the virus.

Led by WEHI and The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity (Doherty Institute), the landmark study is being translated into a new clinical trial to assess whether the blood cancer treatment can be repurposed to offer a pathway towards an HIV cure.

At a glance

• A joint WEHI and Doherty Institute study fnds the cancer drug venetoclax – based on a groundbreaking research discovery at WEHI –can kill hibernating HIV-infected cells and, crucially, delay the virus from re-emerging.

• While current treatments can suppress the virus, they cannot target hibernating HIV-infected cells and permanently prevent the virus from coming back.

• A clinical trial based on the fndings will launch in Denmark and Australia, to test whether venetoclax can be used as a potential pathway to develop a cure for HIV.

An estimated 39 million people worldwide are living with HIV, including more than 29,400 Australians.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the standard of care treatment given to people living with HIV and is highly effective. But the medication cannot target hibernating HIV-infected cells, meaning it can only suppress the virus – not cure it.

ART for people living with HIV is life-long: if

a person stops taking this medication, hibernating HIV-infected cells will reactivate within a very short timeframe, leading to a resurgence of the virus.

An estimated 98% of Australians living with HIV currently have undetectable levels of the virus, as it is completely suppressed by their ongoing ART treatment.

In the new study, WEHI researchers used the cancer drug venetoclax on enhanced pre-clinical models of HIV and found it delayed the virus from rebounding by two weeks, even without ART.

Co-frst author, Dr Philip Arandjelovic from WEHI, said the discovery is an exciting step towards developing treatment options for the tens of millions of people currently living with HIV globally.

“In attacking dormant

HIV cells and delaying viral rebound, venetoclax has shown promise beyond that of currently approved treatments,” he said.

“Every achievement in delaying this virus from returning brings us closer to preventing the disease from re-emerging in people living with HIV. Our fndings are hopefully a step towards this goal.”

The study marks the frst time venetoclax has been used on its own to assess HIV persistence in pre-clinical models.

However, researchers also found the cancer treatment can be combined with another drug that acts on the same pathway and is currently in clinical trials, to achieve a longer delay in viral rebound, with a shorter duration of venetoclax treatment.

“It has long been understood that one drug

may not be enough to completely eliminate HIV. This fnding has supported that theory, while uncovering venetoclax’s powerful potential as a weapon against HIV,” Dr Arandjelovic said.

Lifelong memory game HIV primarily targets CD4+ T cells, a type of white blood cell crucial for the immune system to properly function. It is within these cells that HIV can lie dormant, ready to reactivate if the virus is not effectively eliminated.

Using human CD4+ T cells donated by people living with HIV who are on suppressive ART, scientists at the Doherty Institute found venetoclax was also able to reduce the amount of HIV DNA in these white blood cells.

Co-frst author, The University of

Melbourne’s Dr Youry Kim and a Postdoctoral researcher at the Doherty Institute, said venetoclax potently reduced the amount of intact viral DNA in patient cells when studied in the laboratory.

“This indicates that venetoclax is selectively killing the infected cells, which rely on key proteins to survive. Venetoclax has the ability to antagonise one of the key survival proteins,” said Dr Kim.

Milestone trial Venetoclax, marketed as VENCLEXTA, is based on a landmark discovery by Professor David Vaux AO in 1988. The drug is the result of a research collaboration between WEHI and companies Roche, Genentech (a member of the Roche Group) and AbbVie. It was developed by Roche,

Genentech and AbbVie and co-developed and trialled in Australia.

The Phase I/IIb clinical trial using venetoclax to treat HIV will start at the end of the year in Denmark, with plans to expand the study to Melbourne in 2024. It will be led by Professor Sharon Lewin (Director of the Doherty Institute), Professor Marc Pellegrini (Executive Director at the Centenary Institute) and Dr Thomas Rasmussen (clinician scientist at Denmark’s Aarhus University).

Prof Marc Pellegrini, a joint corresponding author and WEHI Honorary Fellow, said the trial will replicate the pre-clinical study conducted using WEHI’s state-of-the-art technology and facilities.

“The trial will assess the safety and tolerability of venetoclax in people living with HIV who are on suppressive antiretroviral therapy,” said Prof Pellegrini, a former Head of WEHI’s Infectious Diseases and Immune Defence Division.

Melbourne Laureate Professor Sharon Lewin, a joint corresponding author, concluded: “It’s exciting to see venetoclax, which has already helped thousands of blood cancer patients, now being repurposed as a treatment that could also help change the lives of people living with HIV and put an end to the requirement for life-long medication.”

The research was supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), The Sylvia & Charles Viertel Senior Medical Research Fellowship, Australian Centre for HIV and Hepatitis Virology Research, the Victorian Government and Australian Government.

The study, “Venetoclax, alone and in combination with the BH3-mimetic S63845, depletes HIV-1 latently infected cells and delays rebound in humanized mice”, involves collaborations with the University of Melbourne and Royal Melbourne Hospital, and is published in Cell Reports Medicine.

HIV virions, like the one depicted here in red, can hide inside immune cells and escape detection by the body. This is the main barrier to current cure efforts. Credit: Drew Berry, wehi.tv

Dr Philip Arandjelovic (top left) and Dr Youry Kim (top right). Professor Marc Pellegrini (bottom left) and Professor Sharon Lewin (bottom right) Credit: WEHI

Access to primary care is key to reduce Heart, Stroke and Vascular disease in rural and remote Australia

Today the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) is releasing our frst Best for the Bush ‘InFocus’ report looking at heart, stroke and vascular disease and the disproportional impacts for rural and remote Australia.

This follows the release of our frst Best for the Bush ‘Baseline’ report in February which again showed the most common reason for an RFDS aeromedical retrieval is in response to heart, stroke and vascular disease. This consistently accounts for almost a quarter of all RFDS aeromedical retrievals.

Our ‘In Focus’ report fnds that:

o Heart, stroke and vascular disease is a signifcant issue throughout Australia –more than 1.2 million people are living with one or more of these diseases, which contribute to a quarter of all deaths.

o Hospitalisation rates for heart, stroke and vascular disease were 1.4 times higher for remote and very remote populations. People living in remote and very remote areas overall were 1.4 times as likely to die from heart, stroke and vascular disease.

o Ischaemic heart disease, also known as coronary heart disease, is currently the leading cause of death in Australia and costs the Australian health system almost $12 billion a year. Deaths from ischaemic heart disease were up to 10 times higher in rural and remotes areas.

o Indigenous Australians, more than half of whom live outside major cities, experience heart, stroke and vascular disease at higher rates and at younger ages. Indigenous peoples were 1.8 times as likely to be hospitalised and 1.8 times as likely to die

from heart, stroke and vascular disease as nonIndigenous Australians.

o For stroke care, only 3% of Australians who live in rural and remote areas received care in a specialist stroke unit in 2021, compared to 77% of people who live in major cities.

o With the exception of nurses, the distribution of the primary healthcare

These risk factors can be effectively managed through primary healthcare initiatives.

The RFDS provides around 35,000 aeromedical retrievals every year, on behalf of the Commonwealth and our state retrieval partners -- transporting those living, working and travelling in rural and remote Australia to

spending defcit of $6.5 billion as compared to our major cities. And we know that the further you are from our major cities the harder it is to access comprehensive primary healthcare.

Based on the fndings of this report, the RFDS is recommending:

1. More equitable access to comprehensive primary healthcare

Quinlan. “And this impacts the prevention and management of heart, stroke and vascular disease for people living in these areas.

“Heart, stroke and vascular disease rates worsen by remoteness and socioeconomic status and most aeromedical retrievals for heart, stroke and vascular disease came from

designed with local communities to respond to need.”

The RFDS Best for the Bush InFocus report seeks to provide the evidence for governments, service partners and communities to work together to deliver innovative, patientcentered solutions to

workforce (per 100,000 head of population) is signifcantly lacking in rural and remote areas. There is strong evidence that acute heart, stroke and vascular disease events are largely preventable, especially with early diagnosis and treatment. Primary healthcare is at the forefront of services to identify, prevent, and manage heart, stroke and vascular disease risk. Modifable risk factors associated with heart, stroke and vascular disease are found at higher rates in rural and remote areas. These include high blood pressure and cholesterol; poorer diets; lower rates of physical activity; overweight and obesity; and, higher rates of tobacco smoking and alcohol intake.

the urgent hospital care they need.

This report shows that areas with the highest prevalence of risk factors and the poorest access to comprehensive and targeted services for preventing and managing heart, stroke and vascular disease correlate to areas where RFDS aeromedical retrievals are required to urgently transport people to necessary hospital care.

The latest data revealed in an independent Nous Group report, commissioned by the National Rural Health Alliance, also shows that for every person living in rural and remote parts of our country, there is an annual defcit in health care spending of $850 per year, equating to a total annual rural health

services in rural and remote areas, including cardiac care. This includes primary prevention, secondary prevention and targeted management plans;

2. Support for funding and service models for heart, stroke and vascular disease prevention and management that are appropriate for the rural and remote context

3. Better data collection and linkages to further understand the need in these areas.

“We know that access to adequate or comprehensive primary health care is poor in many parts of rural, and particularly remote, Australia,” says Federation Executive Director of the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia, Frank

areas without healthcare service provision, including lack of cardiac services and chronic disease management.

“As this report recognises “rural and remote communities need rural and remote solutions” that are

solve these problems and ensure better health outcomes for our rural and remote communities. This will only be achieved through the availability of adequate, equitable and appropriately targeted primary healthcare.

For all your aches, pains, strains and migraines THINK BOWEN THERAPY (THE AUSSIE THERAPY)

Practicing Bowen Therapy for the past 27 years

Nurturing Your Garden during the Upcoming El Niño Drought

By Liam Jennings

Australia’s climate is no stranger to the El Niño and La Niña weather patterns, which signifcantly infuence weather conditions across the continent. The El Niño phenomenon, characterised by drier and hotter conditions, can lead to challenging drought periods. With an upcoming El Niño drought predicted, gardeners in Australia need to be prepared to face water restrictions and scorching temperatures. However, with thoughtful planning, water-wise practices, and resilient gardening techniques, it is still possible to maintain a beautiful and thriving garden.

During an El Niño drought, water conservation becomes paramount. Adopting water-wise gardening practices can signifcantly reduce water usage while ensuring your garden remains healthy.

Consider implementing the following strategies:

• Mulching: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around plants to retain soil moisture, reduce evaporation, and suppress weeds.

• Drip Irrigation: Install drip irrigation systems that target the root zones of plants, delivering water effciently and minimising waste.

• Watering

Schedule: Water your garden in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler to reduce water loss through evaporation.

• Watering

Frequency: Adjust your watering schedule to water deeply but less frequently to encourage plants to develop deep root systems that can withstand drought conditions.

• Watering Can and Bucket: Collect rainwater using watering cans or buckets during the wetter periods to use during drier times.

Opt for droughttolerant and native plants

in your garden, as they are well-adapted to Australia’s harsh climate. These plants require less water and maintenance, making them ideal for withstanding El Niño drought conditions.

Australian native plants like Grevillea, Kangaroo Paw, and Banksia are excellent choices, as they not only thrive in drought but also attract native wildlife.

When designing your garden, group plants with similar water needs together. This practice, known as hydrozoning, allows you to effciently water your garden without overwatering or under watering certain plants. Placing drought-tolerant plants in one zone and more water-demanding plants in another ensures that each group receives the appropriate amount of water.

During an El Niño drought, temperatures can soar, subjecting plants to heat stress. Create shade and windbreaks in your garden using structures

like pergolas, shade cloths, or strategically positioned plants. This will protect sensitive plants from excessive heat and reduce water loss due to evaporation caused by strong winds.

Healthy soil retains moisture better than compacted or depleted soil. Prioritise soil health by adding organic matter, compost, and well-rotted manure to improve water retention. Healthy soil with good drainage allows plants to access water effectively, reducing the need for frequent watering.

If water restrictions become severe, prioritise watering essential plants like fruit trees, vegetables, and plants of sentimental value. Sacrifcing non-essential plants during drought periods ensures that vital resources are directed to the most valuable parts of your garden. Use water-saving techniques to minimise water waste and maximise effciency:

• Grey water Recycling: Consider

implementing a grey water system to reuse water from household tasks, such as washing dishes and laundry, to irrigate your garden.

• Rainwater

Harvesting: Install rainwater tanks to collect rainwater during wetter periods, providing an additional water source during droughts.

• Monitor Soil

Moisture: Use soil moisture meters or your fnger to gauge soil moisture levels before watering, preventing overwatering.

• Container

Gardening: Opt for container gardening for more control over water usage, as it allows you to monitor individual plant needs.

During droughts, garden pests may become more prevalent as they search for food and water. Implement integrated pest management strategies to deal with pests effectively while minimising the use of chemicals.

Gardening during

an El Niño drought requires adaptability and continuous learning. Observe your garden regularly, assess the performance of different plants, and adjust your gardening practices accordingly. Embrace the learning experience and discover which plants and techniques are most resilient to drought conditions.

Gardening during the upcoming El Niño drought in Australia may present challenges, but with proper planning and water-wise practices, your garden can fourish even in the face of adversity. Choosing drought-tolerant plants, implementing watersaving techniques, and prioritising essential plantings are key to creating a resilient and sustainable garden. With care, patience, and a commitment to responsible gardening, you can cultivate a beautiful and thriving garden that endures through the dry spells and celebrates the return of plentiful rains.

CRISPIEST-EVER SMASHED POTATOES

8 INGREDIENTS

• 1kg baby red royal potatoes

• 2 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 200g packet real bacon pieces, fnely chopped

• 2/3 cup pizza cheese

3 METHOD STEPS

Step 1

Preheat oven to 200C/180C fan-forced. Combine potatoes and 2 tablespoons oil in a large baking dish. Season with salt and pepper. Bake for 40 minutes or until just tender.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat remaining oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat. Cook bacon for 4 to 5 minutes or until lightly golden. Drain on paper

15m prep 10m prep

8 INGREDIENTS

• 1 corn cob

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• 4 shortcut bacon rashers, chopped

• 4 large avocados

• 60ml (1/4 cup) fresh lime juice

55m cook 10m cook

6 servings

• 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 tbsp fnely chopped fresh chives

• Baby French kale leaves, to serve

towel.

Step 3

Using a fork, squash potatoes until lightly crushed.

Top with cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake for 15 minutes or until potatoes are crisp and cheese has melted. Top with sour cream, bacon and chives.

Serve with kale leaves.Season with salt and pepper.

FULLY-LOADED GUACAMOLE (WITH BACON!)

8 servings

• 125g tomato medley mix, sliced

• 60g feta, crumbled

• 1 jalapeño, sliced

• Avocado oil, to serve

• 1/2 small red onion, fnely chopped

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander

4 METHOD STEPS

Step 1

Heat a chargrill pan over high heat. Add the corn and cook, turning occasionally, for 10 minutes or until tender and charred. Set aside to cool slightly. Use a sharp knife to cut down the length of the cob close to the core to remove the kernelsr.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the bacon. Cook, stirring, for 3-4 minutes or until crisp. Transfer to plate lined

• Lime wedges, to serve

• Plain corn chips, to serve

with paper towel to drain.

Step 3

Mash the avocado in a bowl. Stir in lime juice, onion and coriander. Season with salt. Spoon into a shallow serving bowl.

Step 4

Top with the corn, bacon, tomato, feta and jalapeño. Drizzle over avocado oil. Serve with lime wedges and corn chipsl.

“Cooking is like painting or writing a song. Just as there are only so many notes or colours, there are only so many favours - it’s how you combine them that sets you apart.”

- Wolfgang Puck

Death Notice

In loving Memory of Nola Maureen Heyman (Nee Moore)

12 April 1935 - 1 September 2023

Loving Wife of Albert (decd).

Loving Mother of Gail, Vickie, Joanne, Brett, and Scott. Loved Grandmother & Great Grandmother to their children.

Funeral Notice

In Loving Memory

Nita Mary LAWLER (nee Clark)

23rd December,1933 – 26th August,2023

Funeral Notice

Robert James Hulbert

7.09.1930 – 25.08.2023

Passed away on Friday, 25th August 2023 at Bupa Aged Care.

Beloved husband of Aileen.

Dearly loved Father and Father-in-law of Kenneth (Dec), Terence & Cherie, Dallas & Shendell.

Treasured Grandfather of Samantha, Ellie, Emma & Andrew, Joe & Lesa, Bethany & Tim, Samuel & Jamie, Alleena & Edward, Ricki-Lee & Mitchel, and Brody.

In accordance with Nola’s wishes a private cremation will take place.

e family wishes to thank the sta & carers at residential aged care Kyogle for the love, support and care extended to Nola during her time of residence. Your e orts never went unnoticed.

Ph: 02 6632 1720

Aged 89 years

Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at St Vincent’s Hospital Lismore. Loved wife of Pat Lawler (dec).

Loved mother and mother-in-law of Robert (dec), Phillip, Sue & Nick, Kathy & Mark. Loving Nanna and Grandma to her 8 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Relatives and Friends are invited to attend Nita’s Graveside Funeral Service to be held at the Dunoon Cemetery Monday 11th September 2023 commencing at 11am.

Ph: 02 6621 8266

This page is dedicated to all those that have passed

Adored Great Grandfather of Luana, Scott, Holly, Cody, Zara, Leo, Louie.

Nature’s Gentleman

Family and friends are invited to attend Robert’s Celebration of Life to be held at Parkview Funeral Home, 21 Kalinga Street, West Ballina on Friday, 8th September 2023 commencing at 2pm

Robert’s Service will be livestreamed please see Parkview Funeral Home website for details.

Funeral Notice

FISHER, Marjorie Annie

Passed away peacefully at Crowley Aged Care, Ballina on Sunday 3rd September.

Aged 96 years. Formerly of Goonellabah.

Dearly Beloved Wife of Owen (dec). Adored Mother of Roger, Marilyn, Cherryl (dec), Owen, Beverley and their spouses.

Much loved Grandmother, Great Grandmother and Great-Great Grandmother.

Loving Sister to Freda and Janice and also to Athol, Gloria, Joyce, Eric, Len, Royce, Don, Neil, Fay, Robert and Julie (all dec).

Family and friends are invited to attend a Church Funeral Service for Marjorie to be held at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Zadoc Street Lismore on MONDAY 11th September, 2023 commencing at 11.00 am. A er the service the cortege will leave for the Lismore Lawn Cemetery

Saddle, Steel Wheelbarrow, 2x Car Stands, Quantity of Snig Chains, Assorted Poly Fittings, KnapSaks, Poly Water Trough, ICB (1000L Pod), Molasses Lick Drum, 12FT Hurricane Farm Gate 1000L Steel Fuel Tank, Aluminium Extension Ladder, 3x Cast Iron Bath Tubs, Numerous Workshop tools including Hand & Power Tools, Grease Guns & Oils, Quantity of Electric Fencing gear including Steel Pickets, Rolls of wire, Stand offs & Solar Energizers, Fencing equipment including Wire, Wire Spinner, Strainers,

ALSTONVILLE

ALSTONVILLE & DISTRICT CRICKET

CLUB

To celebrate the 50 years since the amalgamation of Alstonville & Wollongbar Cricket Clubs, the Alstonville & District CC have planned several reunion activities for a reunion of former and current players to be held on the weekend of 20/21/22

October. Friday 20th

October - Informal Welcome drinks/dinner at the Federal Hotel from 6:00pm; Saturday 21st October -

“Old Mates Day” at Geoff Watt Oval which includes a BBQ luncheon from 10:30 am and drinks from 4:00 pm at the Plateau Sports Club and on Sunday 22nd October a special luncheon at the Plateau Sports Club from 11:30 am onwards. Signed cricket memorabilia will be auctioned from 2:00pm

ALSTONVILLE BRANCH OF THE RED CROSS

The Alstonville Red Cross branch meets monthly in Alstonville. As meeting dates sometimes vary, please call Carol on 0424 742 774 for details of our next meeting.

ALSTONVILLE PLATEAU

HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Join Alstonville Plateau Historical Society for a celebration of all things gardening, past and present, from botanicals to gnomes. Our latest exhibition, Spade Work, features the garden at Crawford House Museum through the ages, as well as the award-winning gardens of the Alstonville area. It will run until Friday 24th November. Crawford House Museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open on Fridays 10am-4pm and Sundays 1pm - 4pm or at other times by appointment for groups. There are facilities for research about Ballina Shire families, as well as books about local history and commemorative wineglasses and keyrings for sale. For enquiries, call 6628 1829 or visit. By the way, we have openings for people of any age to volunteer in administration or in the museum and, if you’re on a Jobseekers payment and 55 or older, it’s a great way to meet your mutual obligation requirements. If you’re interested, visit us at the museum or call us.

ALSTONVILLE & DISTRICT CRICKET CLUB

Alstonville & District Cricket Club will be celebrating its 50th year of existence since the amalgamation of the two village clubs on the plateau - Alstonville & Wollongbar on 10th July 1973. The reunion of former and current players will take place on Sat 21st & Sun 22nd October weekend. Plans include a Welcome BBQ luncheon at one of the home competition games being played at either Hill Park, Wollongbar or Geoff Watt Oval, Alstonville on the Sat 21st Oct. (Cricket draw for season 2023/24 still to be determined). Drinks will continue to fow from 4:00pm onwards at the Alstonville Plateau Sports Club.

On Sun 22nd Oct, a special

luncheon will be held from mid-day onwards at the Sports Club. Guests will be entertained with cricket stories from each decade and all attending former and current 1st Grade players will receive a keyring with their playing number attached (in line with the sequence of selection).

Leading into the reunion celebrations, an ‘Old Mates’ group will meet every month at ‘The Crossing Cafe’ Main Street, Alstonville for a social gathering and beverage to renew old friendships and forming new ones. For further enquiries for cricket reunion contact Jack Oates (mob: 0429 533 940) or for ‘Old Mates’ contact Garry Ensbey (mob: 0403 033 227

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

Celebrate the beginning of Spring with the offcial launch of Alstonville Plateau Historical Society’s Spring Activities program on the lawns of Crawford House Museum this Sunday 10th September from 1pm till 4pm. We’re calling September “Scarecrow Month” and on Sunday there’ll be a Scarecrow Nutbush Schemozzle (a line or chair dance), a Hobby Horse Gymkhana, workshops for making scarecrows, hobby horses and crepe paper fowers, plus the offcial launch of the ‘Travels with my Gnome’ photographic competition. Refreshments will be worms, carrots, and mud pies (all edible, of course) and the cost will be a gold coin donation, payable at the gate. Crawford House Museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville. enquiries, call 0429 079 364 (Ruth Povall)

ALSTONVILLE PROBUS CLUB

Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cupper and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are welcome.

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

A local women’s service club that meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at the Plateau Sports Club. Quota is committed to supporting and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the disadvantaged in our community through local projects.

QUILTERS

ALSTONVILLE

We are called Plateau Quilters Alstonville we meet the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the Month at the RSL Hall Alstonville from 1pm until 4pm New members would be most welcome. Rhonda Bonner 66298267

EMBROIDERERS GROUP

Meetings are 9.30am2.30pm 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month except December and January. Our venue is the Resource Centre at the rear of Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. We welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet,

share and learn.

MCLEANS RIDGES CRAFT GROUP meet at the McLeans Ridges Hall, Cowlong Road, McLeans Ridges on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Scrapbooking, card making, paper craft, knitting whatever takes your fancy. Come along for an enjoyable day. Bring your own morning tea and lunch. Coffee, tea, milk provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.

THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA (NSW Branch ALSTONVILLE SUBBRANCH

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch will now hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am at the RSL Hall, 13 Bugden Ave (next door to the Alstonville Medical Centre). All ex-Service persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning tea on completion of the meeting. Alstonville RSL sub-Branch have a ‘Lower Deck Luncheon’ at 1200 each Friday, everyone is welcome, we sit out the back of the Hall, order lunch from local suppliers, and have great conversations with good mates. There is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!

BALLINA

Fellowship of First Fleeters

The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Fellowship of First Fleeters will be held on Sunday 24th September 2023 at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina at 10.30 am. Anyone interested in their convict family history from any of the many feets who journeyed here are very welcome to join our group. Our guest speaker will be Alan Hicks speaking on the history of trains in Ballina. If you wish to attend, please contact Roddy Jordan on 66875339

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW HOBBY??? COME AND JOIN THE HEADLINERS CHORUS

We are an all-female group of all ages who love to sing “Acappella” in 4-part Barbershop harmony. We are well known in the Northern Rivers community and would love you to join us. Come along to a rehearsal on Monday nights from 7pm and for more information see our website or enquire to Tracey Ezzy on 0438 446 809

BALLINA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE INC. (BACCI)

We are a diverse group of Artists and Crafters that participate in wonderful group exhibitions. Over 50 members are from all over the Northern Rivers. Meetings are usually on the 1st Monday of every month at the Cherry Street Sports Club. Social gathering at 5, for a 5.30 start.

Ph: Deb on 0432105540

BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB

“Social play every Monday 9-11.30am”. Sessions for all levels of players on Mon, Wed, Sat from 1pm to about 5pm. Be seated at 12:45. Restricted session (under 300 Masterpoints)

Thu 1pm – about 5pm.

Friday mornings, Help with Play. Open to anyone who would like some help with their game from teachers on duty. 9am to about 11:15pm. Sessions are $5 for members and $7 for visitors at 13 North Ck Rd, Ballina.

Call Judy Forsyth: 0407664337.

BALLINA CWA BRANCH

Ladies that are at a loose end on a Wednesday morning, might like to come and join our happy band of members. We meet every Wednesday from 9.00am to noon and can learn many crafts from fellow ladies. Barbara, our Handicraft’s Offcer (0428116668) is there to lend a hand when help is needed. She also teaches us new handicraft techniques. If you have any UFO’s (unfnished objects) why not call in to see us for the morning? Morning tea is served at a cost of just $3. All are welcome. Mahjong is played in our rooms every Wednesday and Thursday from 12.30pm at a cost of $4. Everyone welcome.

Ballina Coastal Quilters

We meet at the North Lakes Community Hall in Whiting Way, Ballina on a Wednesday twice a month from 9 am to 2 pm. The group gives opportunities for friendship, support, and socialisation. and to celebrate our creative achievements in the area of quilting and related stitchery. We encourage our members to seek and share knowledge of their skills. New members would be most welcome. The cost is $5 per session Georgia 66876834

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS CLUB

We are taking a bus for a shopping trip to Pacifc Fair on Wednesday, November 29th. Cost is $26.00 Non probus Club members are cordially invited to join us. Pick up times are Alstonville 8:15am, Opposite West Tower Tavern at 8:30am, and Ballina RSL at 8:45am at the bus stop in front of the car park. For more information, and to book a seat call Pamela on 6681 1022.Ballina Ladies Probus Club meets on the frst Wednesday of the month at the Ballina RSL Club at 10 am for a business meeting, a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit or two, and a guest speaker. For more information call Beryl on 0419 258 282 This week we are celebrating Ballina Ladies Probus Club’s 36th Birthday.

BALLINA EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club at 6.30 for dinner at 7pm - Guests are always welcome. Our members support the education of disadvantaged children in Australia by fundraising activities and social events in our local community for The Smith Family - by sponsoring 5 Learning for Life students. Ph: Julie Stephan 0434988770.

BALLINA FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH

Ballina Free Community

Hot Brunch, First Saturday of each month.

Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a hot brunch of sausages, rissoles bacon & eggs, cereal, tea and coffee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take away meals available. Held at the Ballina Presbyterian Hall Corner of Cherry & Crane st Ballina 10AM TO 12PM Carol: 0438812235

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS CLUB

Ballina Ladies Probus Club welcomes new members, and visitors are welcome to attend a meeting to see what we are like. We meet at the Ballina RSL Club the frst Wednesday of the month at 10am. After the business meeting and a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit or two, we listen to a guest speaker. For more information call Wendy 0410 560 916 or Beryl 0419 285 282 This year we are having a Friendship Coffee Morning once a month at a variety of cafes around Ballina.

BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE

RSL DAY CLUB

A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment.

Every Thursday 10am to 2pm cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249

BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE CLUB

Social Bridge Play in Seniors Hall. Swift Street Ballina on Wednesday & Saturdays @ 12.05 pm Enquiries Phone: 0493425002 for details.

BALLINA TOY LIBRARY

Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina. Open Tuesdays 1pm - 3pm, and Saturdays 10am - 1pm. Ph. 0411719074.

IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

How about trying something different? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.

NORTHERN RIVERS

NAVAL & MARINERS ASSOCIATION

This association was formed to attract veterans for companionship, wellbeing and to supply advocacy to veterans. We hold an informal gathering every Friday, 2.30pm at Ballina Angling Club (families are welcome). Ph: Allan Watt: 0402 749 582

BRUNSWICK HEADS

BRUNSWICK VALLEY VIEW CLUB

Brunswick Valley VIEW Club’s monthly luncheons

are held at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10.30am for 11am.

Apologies to Wenda on 0449 563 580 no later than the Monday before. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women. The club supports seven disadvantaged students in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. 1800 805 366

CASINO

CASINO COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB INC

Please note change of day and date for September Social

It will be held upstairs at the Casino RSM Club on Saturday the 30th of September from 10.00am Come along and enjoy some great country music and take advantage of the meals & drinks offered by the RSM Club. New Artists always welcome. Free entry,raffes and lucky door prize contact Carole 0438641500

CASINO Uniting Church Harvest Festival 9am 17th September Auction of Produce 11am Bring a plate to share 12.30pm All very welcome.

ST MARKS SINGERS

CONCERT LOVE IS IN THE AIR 1.30 pm Saturday 9th Sept Anglican Hall Barker st Casino. Admission $10 includes afternoon tea with homemade biscuits Come along and met up with your friends for a lovely afternoon.

THE CWA CASINO DAY’S

next monthly meeting is at the Casino Community Centre 9.00am Thursday September 21st (3rd Thursday of the Month) 2023. The Land Cookery entry for September is Remembrance biscuits, you don’t have to be a member to submit an entry. All cookery enquiries -Rita Nicholls 0429364160. All welcome, come and have a cuppa and see what we are about. Enquires Margaret Good 66621746, Jennifer Baker 043892060.

CASINO COMMUNITY

MEN’S SHED

Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am1.30pm. Contact 66626423

CASINO & DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY GROUP

INC - We are open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm, Wednesdays from 12pm to 4pm and every third Saturday from 9 am to 11.30 am.

We are in Room 5, upstairs in the School of Arts building in Walker Street, Casino.

Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am.

For a small fee we can do research for you as well. Call 6664 1118

CASINO EVENING BRANCH OF CWA

The Casino Evening Branch of the CWA meets on the frst Thursday of the month at the Casino Uniting Church Hall at 6pm. Come along and have supper and fnd out what we do. All welcome.

Enquiries to: Jo 0417798622

CASINO FUN DAY OUT FOR SENIORS

A day out for ALL LONELY

PEOPLE of our aged communities from Casino, Kyogle, Lismore, Coraki, Woodburn, and Evans Head.

Feel free to get your own group together for a great day.

Where: Casino RSM Club

Date: Friday 15th September 2023

Time: 10.30am-2.30pm

Cost: $10

10.30am: Sandra BinneySolicitor, information on necessity of wills, power of attorney and guardianship.

10.45am: Vivianna- Pharmacist @ Scrivener & Webb, information about available and supplied services.

11.00am: Gerard DunlopSeniors Right Service, information about rights as older citizens.

11.20am: Lucky Door Prizes and Raffes Drawn.

12.00pm: Light lunch served with tea/coffee.

12.45pm: Entertainment from The Minstrels.

Contact: Jan Danaher0414625680 for Transport, Seating, Catering Purposes and any other Enquiries.

CASINO GALLERY-ART at the CASSINO GALLERY. The Casino Art Group meets here every Thursday to Saturdays 10am to 3pm Interested in promoting YOUR medium? Come to the gallery for information.

CASINO LADIES AND FRIEND CRAFT GROUP

Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month. Bring your own morning tea. Names to be in by lunch time Monday. Phone Vivian on 66621838 or Jan on 66626424.

CASINO & DISTRICT ORCHID SOCIETY Meet the 4th Thursday each month. At St Marks Anglican Hall @ 6:30pm

CASINO MEALS ON WHEELS

If you would be interested in volunteering your time to help with meals on wheels give the offce a call on 66621217.

WEEK 1

MONDAY D.Clarke & D.Allen

TUESDAY K.Evans & K.Rowse

WEDNESDAY L.Douglas

K.Bratti & own help

THURSDAY

H.Mofftt & J.Hanna

M.Goodlad & own help

FRIDAY L. Dorrington & S.Forrester

P.Plunkett & Own help

CASINO MINI RAIL

Every Sunday 10am to 4pm. Weather permitting. West Street Casino. Phone 0455673722.

CASINO MIXED PROBUS

CLUB

Our Meeting is on fourth Thursday of each month at Casino RSM Club at 10:00am. Contact Kathleen Griffns, President phone 0427622470 or Daphne Boyd, Secretary phone 0400070085.

CASINO UNITING CHURCH

CAFÉ PRAISE…. Every Wednesday @ 10-11am. All

Welcome 10am Morning Tea Fellowship.

Welcome and Chat 10.30am Praise and Worship

CASINO VIEW CLUB

Monthly luncheon meeting at Casino RSM Club at 11am, second Thurs of every month. Contact Jan on 0418715374

FAIRY HILL CRAFT GROUP is on Thursday September 7, 10 am at Fairy Hill Hall on Summerland Way. This is our annual BRING AND BUY market/stall, with proceeds

toward Hall upkeep. Please bring donated item/ items to sell, with price marked & a little cash to buy something. It would also be a great day to join the Fairy Hill Craft group. BYO craft project to work on and your lunch; tea/ coffee provided. For further details please phone Sue on 66633233

AA-LIVING SOBER MEETING is held every Tuesday 12:00-1:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church Cnr. West & Canterbury Streets Casino each week. The group will discuss a chapter on living sober out of the AA Living Sober Book. Contact George 0427133372

LION’S CLUB CASINO

Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start.

Secretary: Denise Green 0448014682

LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION

Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome.

Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.

ST MARKS OLD TIME NEW

VOGUE DANCE CLUB

St Marks Anglican church hall Barker Street Casino. Old Time and New Vogue. Revision & Beginners.

Every Tuesday from 3pm5.30pm @ $5 per head.

First Saturday night of each month from 7pm -10pm @ $10 per person. Live music Judy Johnson New members, all ages most welcome. Bring a plate to share in a supper. Contact Ronald: 66623328 / mob: 0449710552.

THE PLATYPUS RSL DAY

CLUB operates every Tuesday at the Community Centre from 10am to 2pm. The day consists of gentle exercises, mental stimulation, games, and entertainment. Members are asked to pay $7 for their morning tea and lunch. Transport can be provided within the town limits. If you are feeling socially isolated or just need a day out, please contact Robyn on 66623871. New members are welcome.

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon. New members welcome. More info Roz 0427825560

EVANS RIVER RSL DAY CLUB

The Evans River RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Remembrance Room at Club Evans RSL Evans Head from 10am until 2pm Cost $10 includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We have several vacancies for volunteers and members, anyone who is feeling in need of some company are welcome to attend. Come along and join in the fun. Contact Merilyn on 0401493316.

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS

CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP

Meet every Tuesday 9am12noon in the Recreation Hall (opposite the Kiosk). We invite you to join us for a relaxing morning of crafting, friendship and sharing ideas. Beginners are very welcome. Finishing UFO’s, Embroidery, Gold Work, Hexagons, & Group Projects are just some of the crafts done.

TABLE TENNIS AT GOONELLABAH

Tuesday and Thursday mornings social playing: 9am-12noon; Monday and Wednesday nights social playing: 7-9pm; Training Monday mornings: 9am-12noon; Junior coaching after school Wednesday 3.30pm-4.45pm, $6 a session. Everybody is welcome – all levels. Phone centre on 66251602. Mon-Thurs 9.00am1.00pm

THE PROBUS CLUB of Goonellabah meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Workers Sports Club in Oliver Ave. All welcome. Goonellabah Probus is solely a social club. We have a guest speaker each month and go for outings throughout the year. Meetings on Thursday commence at 10am and fnish at midday. For further information, please contact Gloria Francis on 02 6629 1442.

GRAFTON

GRAFTON AND DISTRICT

GARDEN CLUB -“Connecting people with an interest in gardening, plants, fowers and nature A huge thanks to our Open Garden hosts at Ulmarra recently. Such a beautiful display of so much colour. It looked like spring had come a month earlier in their garden than anywhere else in the valley. And to think that early last year it was covered in food water and mud. An amazing effort, we really appreciate the invitation. Our next meeting will be on Thursday 7th September at the Joan Muir Centre, 194 Turf St Grafton. 10am to midday. Entry is $2, please bring small change and morning tea to share if you are able. We will supply coffee, tea etc.There will also be the regular Bring and Buy table so if you have some plants, cuttings or produce you would like to donate, they are greatly appreciated. Please label plants and cuttings to help others know what they are buying. Paper and pens will be made available. All proceeds go to our Club. Our guest speaker from Orchids Plus will be speaking on the topic of Orchids and Tillandsias (air plants).If you are not a member you are most welcome to attend as a visitor and just pay the $2 entry fee. However, the10Membership Fee is payable on your second visit.

“GRAFTON SENIORS recently did 8-day coach tour to western NSW. Day l, to Narrabri through Glen Innes, Inverell, Delungra, Myall massacre memorial site, Bingara. Day 2, Guided tour old Narrabri Gaol, tourist centre, Crossing Theatre, Sawn Rocks. Day 3, Boggabri museum, Tractor shed, Narabri Fish Farm. Day 4, Yarrie Lake, CSIRO radio telescope, Wee Waa Museum. Day 5, To Coonabarabran, viewing tourist centre, Crystal Kingdom, Tooraweenah to view Warrumbungle range, Gilgandra tourist centre, then Dubbo. Day 6, Dubbo Western Plains Zoo & old gaol. Day 7, To Dunedoo painted silo, Coolah black stump, Mullaley, Gunnedah, Tamr,vorth Equine Centre, Entertainment centre, Big Golden Guitar, Oxley lookout. Day 8, Tamworth hands of fame, hall of fame, bronze busts of country stars, Uralla Thunderbolts grave & statue, McCrossins mill, railway station, Armidale UNE, park. churches, Guyra tomato hot houses, Glen Innes, then home. Sincere thanks to all for doing tour, committee for preparing picnic morning teas. coach

captain, Alan R, for great tour. Next coach trip, day to Kings Plains Castle, near Glen Innes, Fri, 17 November, just a few spare seats. Next meeting, I 0.30am, Tues, 12 September

GRAFTON U 3 A

The September Jabberfest will be held on Monday11th commencing at 10 a.m. in our usual venue The New Life Church in Arthur st. Following up on our outstanding August meeting, we will again meet, for the frst session ,Jessica Stamper from the local Constabulary, who will bring us all up to date with the latest SCAMS Yes all those annoying phone calls that seem on the face of it to be an actual factor that requires you to provide information that will be used to cost you a whole lot of your hard earned money. Scammers are becoming far more sophisticated and seemingly genuine and Jessica, who provided us with those Little Black Book[s] of Scams. will explain how these are evolving at an ever-increasing rate. This subject I’m sure could encompass the whole Jabberfest meeting not only the early session and after the tea break the other speaker for the day will be Dr. Bill Wynn, Physiotherapist at the Grafton Base Hospital We hope to see another eager and receptive roll up of members to the September Jabberfest for what must be subjects of great importance to us all 10 a.m. Monday 11 th be there.

GRAFTON CWA CELEBRATES CWA AWARENESS WEEK

This week is CWA Awareness Week, which runs from 3rd-9th September. The Country Women’s Association of NSW lobbies on various issues and this year is using its annual Awareness Week campaign to highlight the issue of neurodiversity and neurodivergent conditions including ADHD, autism, dyslexia and Tourette syndrome etc and is calling for urgent changes to improve diagnosis and treatment options around ADHD in regional areas. During Awareness Week, CWA wants to highlight these issues and urge governments at all levels to look at how we can better support those with neurodivergent conditions. We also want to raise awareness in our communities about what neurodiversity is, the many people who live with neurodivergent conditions, and through greater awareness, build understanding of difference, and be more accepting of those differences.

Members of Grafton CWA are learning more about neurodiversity this week after the monthly meeting and are joining with the statewide campaign to increase awareness and research funding.

Grafton Branch meets on the 2nd Friday of each month in CWA rooms, cnr Duke and Pound Sts. Morning tea is at 9.30am, followed by the meeting at 10am. New members are always welcome. Craft mornings are also held on 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month, starting at 9.30am

GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Perhaps it’s time to fnd out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the Mighty

Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton.

GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES

Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street. Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors.

We meet at 10.30a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with the exercises commencing at 11. All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants.

Further information can be obtained from Joan or Brian on 66447347 or 0416067315, or from Dot on 66423248 or 0477213017

GRAFTON VIEW CLUB

Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along, enjoy yourself with a tasty meal, a motivated guest speaker & ultimately disadvantaged children will be helped. Please phone Vorna at 66424719 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along to the next meeting to have some fun & help disadvantaged children. See you there!

CLARENCE RIVER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

“Schaeffer House Museum at 190 Fitzroy Street, Grafton. Is in full swing for 2023 with visitors starting to arrive by busload!

What do they see? First and last, the pretty gardens with a wide variety of plants, fowers, herbs and sheltering trees for the birds, butterfies, bees, and resident skinks. Inside the cool house they experience time travel as they see how people led their lives on Clarence over 170 years ago, building for us a rich heritage to value forever! They will also see how to value the knowledge and help given by the original inhabitants on whose land the newcomers settled. It’s a never-ending story in your “Story House” museum. Our vintage clothing collection will soon be stored away to make way for a new display, so pay a visit soon to Your Schaeffer House Museum!

Don’t forget we have nine other great museums in the clarence Valley just waiting for another visit from you! PS: Our resident gnomes can be found somewhere in the garden. Others are tiny and hiding away!!

Museum opening hours are Tues to Thurs and Sunday 1pm to 4pm $12 – Family $5 – Adult and $2 – Child.

Research hours are Tues to Thurs only from 9am to 3pm. There is a small charge for researching.

Our contact number for special openings is 6642 5212”.

Should you wish to discuss this matter further please do not hesitate to contact me on either (02)66425212 or 0406397404.

SCHAEFFER HOUSE MUSEUM, 190 PRINCE STREET, Grafton, NSW

Many items are being ‘rested’ and replaced with different interesting historical photographs, paintings, and objects. Come to see if you can “spot” the changes! Our museum is constantly changing,

COMMUNITY NOTICES

just like the lovely garden that surrounds it!

When did you last “drop in?”

All our museums have different collections and are entertaining so check out the opening times for Alumy Creek, Iluka, Yamba, Glenreagh, Maclean, Lawrence and Copmanhurst.

Schaeffer House hours: Tues, Wed, Thurs, and Sun 1-4pm

Admission Family of four $12.00 Adults $5.00 and children $2.00

We have been welcoming many new members lately, if you would like to join our historical society, you too, can receive our quarterly newsletters and receive many benefts in the Research Area.

Grafton Schaeffer House Museum is presently closed for renovations and is programmed to reopen on August 29, 2023. Watch for further notices.

The Museum is undergoing a complete makeover and will welcome your next visit. In the meantime, research enquiries will be attended to by phone and email 66425212. Tues/Wed/ Thur & Sundays 1 – 4pm”

HASTINGS POINT

HASTINGS POINT

COMMUNITY CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome

When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare

Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414794380

PROBUS CLUB OF HASTINGS POINT

The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at 10am on 3rd Tuesday each month, in the residents’ lounge at Hastings Point Tricare. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president 0409872773 for additional information.

KINGSCLIFF

TWEED COAST U3A

(University of 3rd Age) established with the aim of providing a supportive and engaging environment for people over 45 years not working full-time, in promoting active aging, fostering social connections, and empowering older adults to lead fulflling lives.

At the heart of our community are the friendships that bloom and fourish.

There are over 44 Classes available for example – art, craft, book chat, yoga, Pilates, tai chi, canasta, brain games, languages, writing life stories, walks, cycling.

Membership for Term 3 & 4 (July to Dec 2023) only $40 –No limit on number of classes you can attend. Join us to create meaningful connections, share stories, laughter, and create lasting memories.

Contact Julia 07 5524 8995

KINGSCLIFF 500 CARD CLUB

Kingscliff 500 Card Club.

Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club New players WELCOME

Contact: GARY 0499869992

KYOGLE

KYOGLE COUNTRY

MUSIC’s next day to be held on Sunday 10th September commencing at 11am at KYOGLE BOWLING CLUB. Meals and drinks available.

Everyone is most welcome. $2 donation at door appreciated.

KYOGLE SUNSHINE CLUB

Meets every Thursday at 9.30am. For more details contact 0499824274.

KYOGLE TIDY TOWNS FARMERS MARKET

Held every Saturday morning in Stratheden Street from 8am -12. Come along grab some local fruit & veggies, experience all Kyogle has to offer. New Stall Holders welcome. Ph: Anne 66321851

LION’S CLUB OF KYOGLE

Meeting is held on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at the Kyogle Lion’s shed from 6.30–7pm. Contact Neville Moon on 0448222334.

RICHMOND RIVER BEEF

PRODUCER’S ASSOCIATION

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at Kyogle Showgrounds in the luncheon room at 7pm. Ph: Jan on 0427293455.

ROTARY KYOGLE BAZAAR

Fourth Saturday of every month. See Rotary Kyogle Bazaar on social media for all the details or call 0459512249.

LENNOX HEAD

LENNOX HEAD CWA

Handy Craft Mornings on Mondays 9.30am-12noon in the community centre at Lennox Head. Call Jan on 66816150.

LENNOX HEAD DAY VIEW CLUB

The Lennox Head Day VIEW Club meets on the frst Monday of each month at the Lennox Head Community Centre with the meeting starting at 11am and includes an interesting speaker and concludes with a light lunch. An informal Coffee and Chat meeting is held on the third Monday of the month. The Club sponsors three students through The Smith Family Learning for Life scholarship program that provides educational items for disadvantaged Australian children. New members and guests are most warmly welcomed, and enquiries may be made to Enid 047187511 or Dawn 0466717435.

LENNOX HEAD EVENING

VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Lennox Hotel at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. Guests are welcome. “VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged. students.” Lennox Head Evening VIEW Club currently sponsors two Learning for Life students.

Ph: Sue Brennan 0409728814.

LENNOX HEAD LIONS

CLUB

New members welcome to join our close-knit club where the emphasis is on community service in a fun environment. Meetings are on the frst and Third Wednesday of each month at Club Lennox starting at

6.30pm. Members do what they can, when they can to facilitate the needs of our club.

PROBUS CLUB OF LENNOX

HEAD

Meets 9.30 for 10 at Club Lennox, 10 Stewart Street, on the frst Thursday of each month. Visitors are welcome, also retired, or semi-retired people wishing to join our non-service club to hear interesting guest speakers and to join in trips and outings are invited along. Ph: June Zentveld on 66871004

LISMORE

CAKES, JAMES, PICKLES, Baked GOODIES & CRAFT Stall at Bunnings Lismore on SATURDAY September 9th from 9am. Proceeds to Lismore CWA Branch Community Funding. BE EARLY and support a worthwhile fundraiser.

LISMORE HOME GARDEN AND EDUCATION CLUB next Meeting will be held on Thursday 14th September 1pm East Lismore Bowling Club . Special for September is Orchid or Iris please bench fowers by 12.30pm. bring and Buy Table. Membership Fees now due. New Members welcome and will to be followed by Annual General Meeting. Morning Tea Saturday 2nd September 10am at Val and Burnie Ramsay`s Place 45 Oakley Avenue East Lismore. Please bring plate of food to share for Morning Tea. Members and friends are invited to attend. Further info please contact Secretary 0448294496

RETURN TO JIGGI EVENT

Come along to Jiggi Hall for a back to Jiggi afternoon tea. Saturday 23rd September, 2pm - 4pm, bring a plate to share. Guest speaker is Jiggi-born author Gary Davis who will present his book Tom Mortimer Pitt Street Bankers which is set in Georgica and the Richmond Valley region.

LISMORE PARKINSON’S

DISEASE SUPPORT GROUP.

We meet every third Friday of the month. Next group Meeting is Friday, 15th of September Commences at 10am to 12pm at the South Lismore Bowls Club, 25 Wilson Street South Lismore. New members welcomed. Snacks & cold drinks available. Tea and Coffee with a Gold Coin Donation. Social Networking with Tea and Coffee, Companion Support Group. Parkinsons Nurse Tim and Parkinsons NSW Stacey Foster as special guest inquiries contact Marie 0448871290

TEXTILE ARTIST

WORKSHOP

Anne Stewart, Textile Artist Extraordinaire from Toowoomba will be conducting a Workshop in Lismore on SEPTEMBER 15TH from 10am to 3pm. Create an exquisite Needle Case Book. As places are limited BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL For all Workshop information contact vicki Boyle on 0437 465 642

LISMORE LIONS CLUB

Please save your used stamps to raise funds for The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation. Stamps are collected & forwarded on to be sorted & sold at Auction, to raise money for Children’s Mobility

For further information, please contact Margaret Boxsell on 0427141425

LISMORE CITY BOWLING

AND RECREATION CLUB COMMUNITY BINGO

every Monday morning 10 am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Phone 66 21 5991.

LISMORE CITY CONCERT BAND

Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.15-7.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan.

Ph: 0432575911

LISMORE CWA

We would like YOU to join us for the opportunity to be involved with a truly friendly group of fun, diverse & interesting women of all ages. You will make new friends who will support you, plus you’ll be part of contributing to the lives of Women and Children in our area through our fundraising endeavours. PLEASE THINK ABOUT IT! Why not come along as a ‘guest’ to see how you feel and experience the difference. being a CWA Member could bring to you and your life. We meet on the frst Thursday of each month at 9:30am for a 10am start. FOR MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION call our President Allison Kelly on 0428 216 079. We also run CRAFT meetings each Friday. You’ll learn new things, once again meet new friends, and enjoy creating beautiful craft in great company. FOR CRAFT INFORMATION call Vicki Boyle 0437465642.

LISMORE LIBRARY NEW LOCATION IN THE CBD

While the Lismore Library is under repair, you can fnd a PopUp Library at 146 Molesworth Street (Was Williams Shoes), for all your reading, watching and information needs. The library has a fresh collection of donated community books, DVD’s, Puzzles and more, with weekly programs and events. The library is open 7 days a week Free Tech Help Lismore Pop-up Library every Tuesday and Thursday by appointment. Our tech team can help you master your phone, tablet, or laptop. Email, Facebook, Apps, Photos…even how to turn the thing on!Make sure to book a one-on-one, 45-minute session, that can be tailored to your individual needs! Phone Lismore Pop-up Library on 0266212464.

LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY SHED

President: Don Abrahams

0437576837 Vice President: Bob Greig 0404860504

Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 9.00am – 3.00pm We are a community based non-proft organisation. Everybody is welcome: men, women & people with a disability of all ages. We encourage social inclusion. Our aim is to promote the mental, physical & emotional well-being of people in our community. Shed Activities Members work on their own projects, Mentoring is available, General woodworking, Welding & light engineering, Repair & restoration of items for the public Constructing projects, of items for the public Constructing projects for preschools, hospitals & other organisations Assembling fatpack, Minor maintenance work for the elderly & disabled,

working with the disabled, talking with other members or simply having company.

Memberships: $40-year

Attendance Fee: $3 tea/coffee 15 Industry Drive East Lismore

LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY

INC.

Lismore Orchid Society now meets 3rd Wednesday each month, 1:30pm to 4:00pm at Goonellabah Community Centre in the Goonellabah Public Library, 27 Oliver Ave Goonellabah. Ph: Bev on 0400326289

LISMORE SENIOR CITIZENS

Meet at the Goonellabah

Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome.

LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS

Please join us…... Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat…. Sharing Craft & Ideas.

From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds. (off Bruxner Hwy)

Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug)

Contac: Kim: 0423935060, Linda: 0419489987

LISMORE TARGET RIFLE

CLUB for .22 calibre rifes, meets Wed nights from 6.30pm & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 1.00 pm. Air rife shooting for .22 & 177 air rifes will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).

MORTGAGE STRESS AND COST OF LIVING PRESSURE

WORKSHOP

Lismore Pop-up Library, Thursday 14 September, 5.30pm Are you having money problems? Do you have trouble paying your bills? Are you unsure of what happens if you can’t pay your mortgage? Do you want to learn how to budget your money better, but you don’t know where to start?We can help. The Richmond Tweed Regional Library and the Lismore & District Financial Counselling Service are offering a one-hour workshop about mortgage stress and the cost of living. It will be presented by professional fnancial counsellors. This is the frst in a series of workshops on helping you manage money.The workshop is free. To book, call (02) 6621 2464. We hope to see you there!

CREATIVE AUTHORS OF LISMORE – RAIMOND DE WEERDT - Lismore Pop-up Library, Monday 9 September, 10:00am Raimond de Weerdt will take you on a journey through the largely unknown and fascinating history of portraiture in photography. Moreover, Raimond will share the story behind his book ‘Creatives of the NSW Northern Rivers,’ a remarkable collection of 340 photographic portraits capturing the essence of the creative individuals residing and working in the NSW Northern Rivers region. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the artistry of portraiture and learn more about the making of his book.

LISMORE CHILDREN’S LIBRARY NOW

OPEN

Come visit the brand-new Lismore Children’s Library at the top of the escalators at Lismore Central Shopping Centre. We have all your favourite library services, including Baby Time, Toddler Time and Story Time events, picture books, learn-to-read books, junior fction, and junior non-fction, as well as a dyslexia collection and sensory development kits. Read in the comfort of the library or borrow to take home!

LISMORE BASE HOSPITAL

AUXILIARY would like to thank the Community for supporting our Father’s Day Raffe at Bunnings Lismore. It was drawn on 31st August and the 1st Prize of $500.00 worth of Bunnings vouchers was won by Julie Lavis. We made $1,596.40. A big thank you to our sellers on these days. A big thank you to Bunnings in Lismore for supporting our Branch.

The money is going towards buying a Stryker Chest Compression System for the LBH Emergency Department to be used in the event of Cardiac Arrests. Worth $ 22,710.00

We are also having our Craft Market weekend on 9th and 10th December 2023. So put this in your diary as it is a great two days. More info will be forwarded out soon.

CO-DEPENDANTS

ANONYMOUS (CoDA)

Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships. The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or 0408336143

EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB Community Bingo

Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome

EAST LISMORE SOCIAL TENNIS

Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.

MAINLY MUSIC

Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/ caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200

NR U3A LISMORE INC.

(UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE)

Have you retired or just about to, from the workforce?

Are you looking to exercise your mind and body and keep both well oiled?

Well, Lismore U3A [university of the third age} could be just the place for you. This worldwide organisation has been running in Lismore for the past 30 years and thousands of local people have benefted from its programmes. It’s a great place to meet like-minded people and make new friends. The last three years have been diffcult for us as they have for everyone, and we are on a recruitment drive to meet and greet you!

We start 2023 with a choice of at least 30 classes, which include, Languages, Photography, Science, History, Qigong, Genealogy, and many others. We also have a social calendar each term.

U3A is entirely run by volunteers, with the committee and tutors coming from our membership. The joining fee Is $50 for 1 year and entitles you to attend any course you choose throughout the year; you can go every day if you wish. Why not peruse our site to see if there is a course that would be of interest to you. There is an online enrolment form that you can complete and any queries you have can be directed to our secretary, Pat, McLaren- Smith Ph. 66227408

PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS

Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St.

Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/text Pam on 0418766247 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE

NETWORKING

Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a difference in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you! Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at The Civic Hotel (210 Molesworth Street Lismore). Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC

East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.

ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE

Interested in contributing to community? Local and international?

The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Options Cafe, Main St. Alstonville until further notice. Join us at Options please. Ph: 0435990919

SUMMERLAND AMATEUR

RADIO CLUB

Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and

welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy, and similar subjects.

SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.

Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information.

Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Arts Pavillion at Lismore Showgrounds.Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601

ZEN AND INSIGHT

MEDITATION – LISMORE HEIGHTS

INSIGHT (VIPASSANA)

MEDITATION and practice: This mindfulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion.

For further details, please contact Rosie - 0402682925

ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm-8:15pm. The evening includes instructions, sitting meditation, Dharma talks and individual interviews with the teacher.

For further details, please phone: 0427778837

Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed at both groups.

MACLEAN

MACLEAN VIEW CLUB

Monthly meetings the 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purposes.

MURWILLUMBAH

MURWILLUMBAH

TWEED COAST U3A (University of 3rd Age) established with the aim of providing a supportive and engaging environment for people over 45 years not working full-time, in promoting active aging, fostering social connections, and empowering older adults to lead fulflling lives. At the heart of our community are the friendships that bloom and fourish. There are over 44 Classes available for example – art, craft, book chat, yoga, Pilates, tai chi, canasta, brain games, languages, writing life stories, walks, cycling. Membership for Term 3 & 4 (July to Dec 2023) only $40 – No limit on number of classes you can attend. Join us to create meaningful connections, share stories, laughter, and create lasting memories. Contact Julia 07 5524 8995

COMMUNITY PRINTMAKERS

MURWILLUMBAH Fine art printmakers. Meet at studio space 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding. Prints, gallery, workshops and more! Ph: Peter 0498399640 or Sue 0408493253.

MURWILLUMBAH

COMMUNITY GARDEN

Members and visitors are invited to join the group for activities and gardening tips

most Sundays. Time 3-5pm, street parking, BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat, and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Ph: Bob Johnson (02)66225792.

Mummulgum

MUMMULGUM HALL

BINGO - Thursday 7th

September Morning Tea 10am

Bingo Lunch $15

Free Bus – Woolworths Bus stop 9.30am Everyone welcome

NIMBIN

OLD TIME NIMBIN CENTRAL SCHOOL REUNION

We are pleased to invite you and your partner to join your fellow classmates for drinks and lunch at the Nimbin Bowling Club Sunday the 10th of September 2023.

Club opens at 10am. Bistro opens for lunch at 12pm. Approximately $20. Chefs’ menu will be provided closer to the day.

Photo ID will be required for club entrance.

We will need numbers for catering by the last meeting in mid-August 2023, please reply to an organiser by this time.

Royce Andrews: 0477006140, Rhonda Ryan (Whitney): 0448234254

POTTSVILLE

POTTSVILLE ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS: Is drinking costing you more than money?

AA works and is very active in Pottsville.

We meet every Thursday 7pm at St Marks 15A Coronation Ave Pottsville and local contact 1800 423 431 or 04019 45671

POTTSVILLE

TWEED COAST U3A (University of 3rd Age) established with the aim of providing a supportive and engaging environment for people over 45 years not working full-time, in promoting active aging, fostering social connections, and empowering older adults to lead fulflling lives. At the heart of our community are the friendships that bloom and fourish.

There are over 44 Classes available for example – art, craft, book chat, yoga, Pilates, tai chi, canasta, brain games, languages, writing life stories, walks, cycling. Membership for Term 3 & 4 (July to Dec 2023) only $40 – No limit on number of classes you can attend. Join us to create meaningful connections, share stories, laughter, and create lasting memories.

Contact Julia 07 5524 8995

POTTSVILLE FUN

CROQUET CLUB

Meets at Black Rocks Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375.

POTTSVILLE LADIES

LIFEBALL

Every Thursday morning 9.30am to 11.30am. Pottsville Community Hall, $5 per session includes morning tea. No joining fees. Ph: Jan 0431909760.

TWEED HEADS

TWEED COAST U3A

(University of 3rd Age) established with the aim of providing a supportive and engaging environment for people over 45 years not working full-time, in promoting active aging, fostering social connections, and empowering older adults to lead fulflling lives. At the heart of our community are the friendships that bloom and fourish. There are over 44 Classes available for example – art, craft, book chat, yoga, Pilates, tai chi, canasta, brain games, languages, writing life stories, walks, cycling. Membership for Term 3 & 4 (July to Dec 2023) only $40 –No limit on number of classes you can attend. Join us to create meaningful connections, share stories, laughter, and create lasting memories. Contact Julia 07 5524 8995

POETS AND WRITERS ON THE TWEED meet every Tuesday at the South Tweed Sports Club 1.30-3.30pm. Beginners welcome. Phone 0755248035.

TWEED HEADS PROBUS CLUB - Probus Club, Coolangatta/Tweed Heads. Be at Club Tweed at 10-00am on the frst Wednesday of the Month. Visitors and new members are very welcome.

TWEED PATCHWORK GROUP

Meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at South Tweed Community Center from 9-1pm at 18 Heffron Street Tweed Heads south all beginners welcome phone Moira on 0418686643. A friendly group of people with common interest in seeing, quilting and related craft.

TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB

V I E W as in Voice, Interests, Education of Women (Not many people are aware of what ‘VIEW’ club stands for!) AND NOT ONLY IN NAME: We are a group of ladies who care what will become of our youth! Our heritage – Their heritage – It is sad but true that many of our young people have no direction in their lives. Every morning we wake to the news that violence has occurred overnight in what was once considered a safe neighbourhood. How do these offending children/ youth feel the next morning knowing they have caused so much heartache - is this why we also hear of youth harming themselves so they can spread the pain? So, this is where VIEW Clubs and other similar clubs are starting from the bottom of the ladder by providing much needed funds to educate our youngsters so they will WANT to become the very best person they can not only in education but in their community and being proud of themselves and giving their parents hope for their child’s future. We at TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB PROVIDE THE NECESSARY FUNDS to educate just 7 of these children. We know not where they come from, but someone in their community has contacted THE SMITH FAMILY and

they in turn contact VIEW CLUBS OF AUSTRALIA who anonymously contact a VIEW Club who in turn take over the responsibility for these worthy children’s fees and so year after year their tertiary fees are paid. These fees are raised by VIEW Club members who attend meetings, listen to interesting guest speakers and regularly have days out at each other’s homes – so FUN and a tremendous satisfaction of knowing we are helping our future generation. More information can be gleaned by contacting our President Kathie on 0407709629.

YAMBA

YAMBA DAY VIEW CLUB

Yamba Day View Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Yamba Bowling Club on 3rd Monday of month, starting 10am for 10.30am. Acceptance and apologies to President Lyn 66463164 by Friday prior to luncheon for catering purposes. We hold a monthly social outing either for lunch or morning tea and visitors are always welcome.

YAMBA LIONS CLUB

Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.

ALL NORTHERN RIVERS

NRCF WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE

The Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRFC) is inviting Northern Rivers women to play an active role in empowering vulnerable women and girls in our region. The newly formed NRFC’s Women’s Giving Circle brings Northern Rivers women together to achieve equality and human rights for women and girls in our region and enable them to realise their full potential. Ph: 0499862886

The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE HARRIERS is a non-proft community group that is part of a worldwide organisation. The Hash House Harriers meet every Monday at 6pm for a run/walk from various locations around Lismore, Alstonville, and Ballina. The run/walk lasts for approximately an hour, followed by friendship,

banter and grub. We are very friendly and welcome new members.

NORTHERN RIVERS

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

Covering Wollongbar to Ocean Shores.

Meets 2nd Friday of each month at Summerland Farm, Wardell Road, Alstonville. A general catch up & chat with the opportunity to join in a casual Q&A session with Rebecca, our Parkinson’s nurse. She will be there to answer any questions that you may have about anything to do with living with Parkinson’s or supporting or caring for a loved one. Maybe you want to know about symptoms, medication, treatments, or services etc.

Rebecca is there to support us and help you manage your disease so that you live your best life. All those living with Parkinson’s Disease or those supporting them are most welcome.

Please RSVP Cheryl 0428286753.

NORTHERN RIVERS DAY PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Day Prostate Cancer Support Group is to be held on Wednesday September 13th - 10am until 12 noon at the Alstonville Plateau Sports Club (previously known as Bowling Club), Deegan Drive, Alstonville Men previously and newly diagnosed with prostate cancer are urged to join with the group to experience the personal cancer stories told which give a great opportunity for all present to share, learn and beneft from each other - Partners and Carers are also most welcome to attend as family are very much involved with the process and treatment of those with this diagnosis Enquiries phone Bob Corney 0493 075 612

ALCOHOLICS ANNONYMOUS The doors of AA are open -7pm Friday 8th September. AA is holding a LOCAL PUBLIC AA MEETING Open to anyone who might want more information about what AA is, what AA does and what AA doesn’t do. It’s a Free Event @ The Bangalow A&I Hall. Phone the National AA helpline 1300 22 22 22 Local helpline 1800 423 431 or 0401 945 671

FORECAST

Warnings

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Mostly sunny. Winds south to southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h turning southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming northerly 15 to 25 km/h during the day.

Northern Tablelands District:

Sunny. The chance of morning frost in the south. Light winds becoming northeast to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning.

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 turning north to northwesterly 25 to 35 km/h during the morning.

TIDES, SUN & MOON Ballina

New South Wales:

Mostly sunny, partly cloudy in the northeast coast. Patches of morning frost and fog along the ranges, and southern and central plains and slopes. Daytime temperatures above average in the west and north, about average elsewhere. Southwest to southerly winds along the coast, tending southeast to northeasterly inland.

Thursday. A shower or two and a chance of a storm for most districts, mostly sunny in the northwest interior. Late snow possible on the Alps above 1500 metres. A chance of morning fog and frost patches along the central and southern ranges. Daytime temperatures well above average, remaining about average southwest inland. Northerly winds, with a west to southwesterly wind change inland.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Southerly 15 to 20 knots shifting east to northeasterly 10 to 15 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to 1 metre during the morning. 1st Swell: Southerly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore during the afternoon. 2nd Swell: Northerly around 1 metre offshore. Weather: Sunny. Coffs Coast:

Winds: Southerly 15 to 20 knots shifting east to northeasterly 10 to 15 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to 1 metre during the morning. 1st Swell: Southerly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore during the afternoon. 2nd Swell: Northerly around 1 metre offshore. Weather: Sunny. Gold Coast Waters:

Winds: Northerly 15 to 20 knots becoming variable about 10 knots during the morning then becoming easterly 10 to 15 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing below 1 metre during the morning. Swell: Southeasterly below 1 metre. Weather: Sunny.

Grafton hockey hats on for $335k lights

By Tim Howard

Grafton hockey players

have taken to wearing hats and sunnies while playing at night after the installation of $335,000 of LED lighting at the city’s hockey complex.

Grafton Hockey Association vicepresident Lyn Newby said the new lighting for the associations two artifcial surfaces, the Brent Livermore Field and the The Legends Field had exceeded all expectations.

“It’s like playing during the day,” Ms Newby said. “Players have been saying they’ve taken to wearing hats when they play at night.”

Member for Clarence Richie Williamson offcially opened the recently completed project, funds through a project of the previous government NSW Government, the Female Friendly Sports Facilities

and Lighting Upgrade program, last Thursday

“Hockey is a really big sport in Grafton and has produced some outstanding female players over the years, with the under-18s girls representative hockey team recently travelling to Narellan to play in the Division 1 State Championships,” Mr Williamson said.

“The lighting upgrade will provide a safer and more inclusive space allowing increased night games while at the same time reduce running costs by providing more durable lighting.

“When women and girls feel comfortable they are more likely to stick with their chosen sport. This helps local clubs keep existing players and inspires the next generation of female sporting stars.

“It’s important that we continue to invest in existing local

sporting infrastructure making them safer, more inclusive and more sustainable, and I congratulate Grafton Hockey Association on its successful application under the program.”

Ms Newby said there were long-term benefts from the upgrade, particularly a drastic

drop in the association’s electricity bills.

She said GHA had been spending about $20,000 a year on the lights which were used six nights a week.

The lights were also more durable than the previous lights, with a lifespan of up to 25 years, which would

signifcantly lower maintenance costs on them.

“This means we can keep playing fees at a reasonable cost and ensure there is suffcient lighting around the complex to enable our player base to be secure, while enjoying sport and ensuring a safe and

inclusive atmosphere while enjoying night hockey,” she said.

Grafton Rugby Club was also successful in receiving $160,000 under the same program to upgrade lighting and other female facility upgrades at its Hay Street sporting complex in South Grafton.

Rainbow Dragons Regatta 2023 Results Wrap-Up

Dragon boat paddlers from 17 clubs from as far north as Redland Bay QLD, south to Hunter Valley and west to Narrabri started their racing seasons on the weekend at the 2023 Rainbow Region Dragon Boat Club regatta, on Shaws Bay, East Ballina.

Club president, Jan Wright, said

“Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and it sounds like everyone had a lot of fun along with some good, healthy competition.”

Starting Saturday afternoon, another local club Ballina, won the 1km turn race, with Tweed coming second and Kempsey third.

The four “State of

Origin” teams were drawn from a hat so never having paddled together to add an extra challenge. Both NSW teams showed they could stay the distance and challenge to take out both frst and second place.

Sunday started with a spectacular double rainbow arching over

the course which lifted everybody’s spirits for a full day of 200 metre racing.

The “Community Teams Challenge” made up of schools, clubs, Council, and Rainbow sponsors raced for a good cause- Jetts Pilots won $250 for their chosen charity. The tartan clad, Bravehearts,

won “Best Dressed.”

20s CREWS- Womens: 1st Currumbin, 2nd Ballina, 3rd Tweed.

Mixed: 1st Currumbin, 2nd Palm Beach/KIN, 3rd Tweed.

10s CREWS- Womens: 1st Rainbows, 2nd Coffs Coast, 3rd Currumbin.

Mens: 1st Currumbin, 2nd Ballina, 3rd Kempsey. Opens: 1st

Tweed, 2nd Palm Beach/ KIN, 3rd Rainbows. Rainbows are proud of their placings in 10s fnals because they were also the hard working volunteers, over the entire weekend.

Finally Breast Cancer Survivors results - 1st Wollumbin, 2nd Rainbows, 0.05 second difference.

Gathering to celebrate the offcial opening of the new lighting for Grafton Hockey Association’s artifcial playing surfaces are: front, from left: Shaneeka Wisz, Martina Williams. Rear from left: Kerri-Anne Falla, Shaniqua Williams, Member for Clarence Richie Williamson, Shelera Williams and GHA vice-president Lyn Newby.

By Tim Howard

You can tell where family sits with South Grafton Rebels superveteran hooker Steve Kirby.

Asked to describe how he felt after coming off the bench to play in the Rebels frst grade team’s preliminary fnal win over Nambucca on Sunday, alongside son and winger Damon Kirby, he left no doubt where it stood.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling,” he said. “Better than 20 years ago to the day when we won this game to make the grand fnal against Lismore.’

Kirby said his 21 years in the game with the Rebels, since arriving in Grafton from Brewarrina, had created plenty of milestone, but the chance to play footy with Damon and his other brother Chris Hardy, were the

Kirbys family fun playing for Rebels

standouts.

“It’s something you can’t really describe,” he said. “But to get the chance to play in the

Sadly Chris has been injured and unable to play at the end of the season.

Damon was just as

come along to the games wondering if I was going to get the chance frst grade footy,” he said.

“Now I’ve played

my life.

Kirby senior, now 45, said he’d been fortunate to be able to continue playing the game he

keep healthy and I haven’t had any serious injuries,” he said.

But the hooker, once renowned for his darting runs from dummy half, said his speed has moved to between the ears.

“I’ve got a lot smarter, as I’ve lost my speed,” he said. “Now I know where I have to be and get there early.”

He said having a coach like Rebels mentor Ron Gordon also helped.

“Ronnie has good game plans, which are simple for the players to follow,” he said.

“Everyone knows where they’re supposed to be and what they need to do.”

game that gets us into the big dance, alongside your son. There’s been nothing like it in 21 years.”

excited as his dad to have the “old man” suiting up in the same team.

“Growing up I used to

with my brother and old man in a team that’s in the grand fnal. It’s something I’m going to remember for the rest of

loved long enough to get on the feld with his boys.

“I’ve looked after myself, I eat well and

Steve will be at training this week and putting his hand up for grand fnal selection.

“It might be on an extended bench, but I’ll be available,” he said.

CASINO SOCIAL GOLF

RESULTS

03-09-2023

The monthly medal was won by Matthew Rankin with a net score of 27 from Matthew Gooding with 29. The putting trophy went to T. Jenkins with 14 putts and he also won the players draw.Nearest to pins:8th & 17th, T.Hook. 9th, D.Slade 10th, G.Randall.11th,15th, & 18th, J.Rankin. 12th & 13th, T.Jenkins.14th, P.Piccoli. 16th, D.Hampson. There will be no social golf played at Casino next Sunday as the club is off to Tenterfeld to play at their course and the sponsor is Madsen Meats Casino.

CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB SPORTS RESULTS ASSOCIATION

CROQUET :

G.Drew P.Hume 16 d

L.Hardy S.Hume 5

G.Porter 16 d P.Waters

B.Hardy 6

H.Young S.Hume 11 d

G.Drew P.Hume 9

RICOCHET CROQUET :

H.Young R.Chapman

13 d P.Waters

J.Hannigan 11

N.Barnes M.Russell 17

d J.Hamilton N.Watts 14

C.Edlund J.Doust 14 d

R.Allen C.Lane 13

P.Bolte B.Waters 14

P.Scott C.Woodlands 13

J.Hannigan M.Russell

8 d P.Scott H.Young 7

J.Copeland J.Doust 19

d N.Barnes M.Field 9

J.Hamilton N.Watts 13

d R.Allen P.Bolte 12

C.Lane 11 d C.Edlund

8 Ricochet Club

Croquet Doubles.

CORAKI

VETERANS

GOLF RESULTS

THURSDAY 31/8/23

The last round of the veterans championship, winner will be announced at presentation day.

Golf winner today, R Earnshaw, 2nd P Brophy. 3rdT Stanborough, free game M Fairfull chicken/ball winners T Doyle, J Weaver, G Tait, T Woods, W Lunnon, S Dawson, R Black, J Voght, B McDonald, B Collyer G Gibson. Nearest pins 3rd/12th R Earnshaw, 6th/15th J Lassig.

the many volunteers who cleaned and presented the course on Monday before, many positive comments on the condition of the course were made.

AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING

EVANS HEAD WOMENS BOWLS

22 Teams from around the District enjoyed a special day with 2xGames of 14 ends at Evans Head to celebrate their 70th Birthday/Gala Day.

everyone who helped make the day so special.

Ladies SocIal Day30-08-23 - Win & EndsWinners - J. Beckett, L. Hughes, I. Bale/G. Marczan, K. Robson.

Runners/up - B. Hancock, K. Townsend, J. Fernance.

Thank you Joan Fernance, Publicity Offcer.

Evans Head Ladies

Mahjong 1st September, 2023

Championships Division 1

Final : David Scott 16 d Ray Chapman 14.

Golf Croquet Team to play at Sutherland

Sydney 30th September.

Joan Doust Captain, Wendy Gilmore, Helen Young, Jim Hannigan, Christine Edlund, Rosalie Offey.

Alstonville Croquet Club Friendship Day 11th September.

Norma Watts, Joan Doust, Club Champions Ricochet & Golf OBE

This Thursday will be the September monthly medal commencing at 8.30am with a shot gun start. Last Tuesday our annual open day was played. A great feld of 120 players had a marvellous day. A very well organised day ensured that all players enjoyed the golf. Being well fed by Warrick and his helpers also kept the feld happy. As this is our biggest day of the year congratulations to all who organised the day and the running of the comp. Don’t forget

Winners - 2W+27Alstonville - P. Basso, M. Marron, O. Souter with District President Margaret Richards. Runners/up - 2W+26 - Ballina - J. Gregory, P. Condon, K. Elmis with C.E.O Evans Head Bowling Club Roger Hong.

First Round +12 Evans Head - T. Bell, A. Eyles, K. Keevers with Former President Yvonne Marsden.

Second Round +13 - Ballina - H. Ison, C. Chapman, P. Johns with Former President Merle Swanson

Congratulations to

Celebrating their 70th birthday & Gala Day on 23-08-23.

District & Club

President with Executive & Team

Cutting 70th Birthday

Cake Past Presidents.

1.Lorna Simpson, 2. Jan Small, 3. Vanessa Reynolds, 4. Joy Lowien, 5. Margaret. Bryant, 6. Wendy Thornton, 7. Kathy Pickles, 8. Rosemary Russell, 9. Shirley Atkinson, 10. Val Heinritz, 11. Ann Hewitt, Ramsay Roper, 13. Cindy Smith, 14. Jan Boardman, 15. June Greenaway, 16. Bev Lasater, 17. Leslie Ritchie, 18. Pauline Bolte, 19. Barbara Ellan, 20. Shirley Coleman, 21. Lynda Lovett, 22. Janene Jarvis, 23. Valda McLerie, 24. Pam Farrell, 25. Sarah Bull, 26. Lisa Wong, Ronda Taylor, Coral Lavelle, 29. Susan Scott, 30. Gail McDonagh, Yvonne Weddup, 32. Diana Auret, 33. Gladys D’Anna, 34. Jeanette McGuiness, 35 Sally Lowry, 36. Jane Fenech, 37. Eve Chapman

Rebels veteran Steve Kirby said Sunday’s preliminary fnal win over Nambucca to make a grand fnal, playing alongside son Damon Kirby, was the highlight of a 21-year career with the Rebels.

By Tim Howard

The South Grafton Rebels have won a chance to defence their Group 2 Rugby League premiership with a dominant 34-16 win over Nambucca at McKittrick Park on Sunday.

The Rebels scored six tries to three and effectively blew the Roosters off the park with their line speed in defence and balls skills in attack.

The results sets up a mouth-watering grand fnal at the Coffs Harbour International Sports Centre on Sunday between the two teams who have set the benchmark for skill and physicality this season.

If the Rebels can turn the 30 minutes of football they put together in frst half of the game against Nambucca into an 80-minute display, they have every chance of securing back-to-back premierships.

A brilliant fourthminute try to hooker

Dane Saunders, after the Rebels gifted possession to the Roosters with a sloppy carry coming out of defence, stung the Rebels into action.

They scored four converted tries to lead 24-6 at half-time, a lead that was never seriously threatened.

It was a relentless display, won on the back of ruthless defence, which seized on opposition errors and punished them.

Centre James Torrens put his side on the board with a well constructed try in the 12th minute.

Noting the Nambucca defence sliding toward the sideline, Torrens hit a ball from half Keaton Stutt on the angle, bounced out of

Dominant Rebels into grand fnal

an ineffectual tackle and dived over near the posts.

Nick McGrady converted to level the scores.

The Rebels dominated the game for the next 10 minutes and were rewarded when back rower Aiden Hyland crashed over.

While dominant on the scoreboard, the Rebels bench was in trouble with both starting props Lionel Johnson and Bailey Sinclair coming off injured inside the 20 minute mark.

The position worsened when young lock Nick Torrens also came off for treatment after receiving a knee in the back in a tackle.

Fortunately the Rebels were able to call on replacements of the calibre of Grant Stevens, who had a huge game with some important tackles and powerful ball carries.

The injuries did not seem to worry the Rebels attack, which pounced twice more in the last 15

minutes.

James Torrens notched his second try for the game, running a great angle to get on the outside of the defence and score near the left corner. McGrady slotted

The Roosters gave their supporters a glimmer of hope, scoring frst in the second half, when the Rebels allowed a high kick to bounce and lost the ball forward trying to clean up.

left wing. He passed inside and backed up to get the fnal pass which put him over in the corner.

The Roosters got a try back minutes later, through and element of

said the Rebels put together 30 minutes of top football in the frst half, but allowed some poor discipline into the game after that.

“But I’m not too worried about that now,” he said. “We’ve got through into the grand fnal and that’s what we aimed to do at the start of the game.”

He was worried about the number of injuries, but said he had taken a gamble during the game to keep his bench players on the feld.

“When we got so far in front, I decided not to risk the injured players,” he said. “We were lucky “Stump” (Stevens) was able to play so many minutes.

“It wasn’t in the plan, but he’s a player that can give you those big minutes, so it was why I decided to risk it.”

the sideline conversion to make it 18-6. It was the Rebels defence that created the last try of the half. Desperately swinging the ball wide to beat the rapidly advancing Rebels defence, Roosters fve-eighth Nelson Langley’s pass hit the chest of Rebels centre Jye Boehme, who had time to look around to check his luck on a 50m sprint to the line, which fnished in a high dive into the in-goal.

South Grafton also enjoyed some luck in the fnal minutes of the half when a spectacular cross kick from Nambucca halfback Tyrone Roberts-Davis landed in the arms of a Nambucca attacker who touched down, only to fnd the referee ruled him in front of the kicker.

Gifted possession Nambucca back rower Brody Simon made the Rebels pay with a try, converted by RobertsDavis.

Ill-discipline cost the Roosters any chance of a comeback at around the 20-minute mark when Saunders was sin-binned for a ludicrous lifting tackle on winger Damon Kirby.

Defenders lifted Kirby, but seemingly let him down, to avoid injury, only for more defenders to join in and tip him over to land heavily.

He lay on the ground for a couple of minutes while the referee called out Nambucca players for a lecture before sending Saunders to the bin.

Minutes later Hyland skirted the defence and made a break down the

luck as they attacked the Rebels’ line.

A poor pass to RobertsDavis put him under pressure, but when hit in a heavy tackle, the ball bounced into the hands of supporting Tyreece Sines, who scored wide out. Roberts-Davis failed to convert.

Inside the fnal fve minutes the Rebels were awarded a penalty close to the posts and skipper Keiron-Johnson Heron had no hesitation in getting McGrady to kick for goal. His successful kick made it 30-16.

But the Rebels had one more shot in their locker and mounted a last-minute attack on the Roosters tryline, which netted Boehme his second try of the game as the full time hooter sounded.

Coach Ron Gordon

He said the injuries would be assessed at training during the week. As he walked off the ground, Gordon’s mind had already switched to Sunday’s encounter with Woolgoolga at the Coffs Harbour International Sports Centre on Sunday. “We’ll have a different game plan for them,” he said. “Last time we didn’t follow the plan we had and it cost us.”

In the major semi-fnal the failure to make frst up tackles on powerhouse centres Shayde Perham and Sione Fangupo resulted in three tries.

Between them those two have scored 34 tries for the Seahorses this year. Restricting the amount of ball they receive cuts off one of Woolgoolga’s biggest threats.

The Rebels celebrate after centre Jye Boehme seized an intercept pass and raced 60m to score under the posts in Sunday’s preliminary fnal win over Nambucca. Photo: Gary Nichols.

The Nambucca defence shuts downs down Rebels fve-eighth Hugh Stanley who was one of his team’s best in the 34-16 win over Nambucca in the prelinary fnal at McKitrrick Park on Sunday.

Photo: Gary Nichols.

Rebels centre James Torrens dives over for a try in the preliminary fnal win over the Nambucca Rooster at McKittrick Park on Sunday. Photo: Gary Nichols.

Rebels centre James Torrens crosses for his second try of the game during the Rebels 34-16 preliminary fnal win over the Nambucca Roosters on Sunday. Photo: Gary Nichols.