The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 236

Full Story on Page 3

Samantha Elley

Story on Page 4 By Tim Howard Full Story on Page 6 By Samantha Elley

Signifcant step in $263.8m hospital redevelopment

TIM HOWARD

The decision to convert a section of the old Grafton Jail into an administrative wing for the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment has been a signifcant step forward in planning for the $263.8 million hospital redevelopment.

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said the acquisition of the old jail site provided critical new space to support the redevelopment of the hospital.

“This multi-million dollar redevelopment will improve healthcare capacity and ensure the hospital has the best, most up to date models of care for the residents of Grafton and the surrounding communities,” Mr Park said.

He said the redevelopment would improve health outcomes and meet the growing needs of Grafton and surrounding communities.

Clarence MP Richie Williamson has been a champion for the hospital redevelopment before he was elected to NSW Parliament and welcomes the news as evidence of bi-partisan support for the region.

“This redevelopment is vital for ensuring that Grafton Base Hospital meets the growing healthcare needs of our region, and I am delighted that work is progressing with

bipartisan support,” Mr Williamson said.

He said the adaptive reuse of the former Grafton Jail site aligns with a conservation management plan to preserve its heritage while providing new, much-needed administrative, offce, and training facilities for Grafton Base Hospital staff.

Mr Williamson further highlighted the economic and community benefts of reactivating this iconic site.

“I commend the NSW Government for acquiring this space for healthcare use and look forward to seeing its transformation beneft our local community.”

In addition to the site acquisition, a Development Application has been approved by the Northern Regional Planning Panel to refurbish two administration blocks within the former

minimum-security portion, on the northeastern corner of the jail, to provide contemporary administrative, offce and training support facilities.

Clinical services will remain on the existing Grafton Hospital site.

The former Grafton Jail operated between 1893 and 2020, it was closed following the opening of the new Grafton Correctional Centre in Lavadia.

The former Grafton Jail was added to the state’s Heritage Register in 1999.

The Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper approved of the move.

“The transfer of this part of the subdivided site to NSW Health ensures the Old Grafton Goal doesn’t remain an unused relic,” he said.

“This great outcome enables new uses for this important community asset, while also providing a

major economic beneft for the Grafton community.”

The adaptive reuse of a portion of the former jail site aligns with the conservation management plan prepared for the site in 2021, to ensure areas of heritage signifcance within the site are preserved and activated.

Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong said the jail site would remain an iconic place in Grafton.

“We have delivered another important milestone to revitalise and reuse one of our state’s key former correctional centres,” he said.

“Grafton Jail is an iconic place with a somewhat dark history, so it is wonderful we are delivering a positive new chapter that will ensure this monument serves the local community for years to come.”

The main works of the $263.8 million Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment, will deliver a new threestorey acute services building, including a new emergency department, emergency short stay, medical imaging and MRI, and inpatient unit.

The current day surgery and operating suite will be expanded to provide two additional operating theatres, increasing overall capacity.

Construction timeframes for the full redevelopment will be confrmed once planning has been fnalised and a builder has been appointed, with the refurbishment works at the former Jail site expected to start this year.

For more information visit: https://www.hinfra. health.nsw.gov.au/ projects/project-search/ grafton-base-hospitalredevelopment

Volunteer Stories: Rewards Beyond Expectations

The Northern NSW Local Health District is inviting community members to start the new year by becoming Healthcare Helper volunteers, providing vital support to patients, visitors, and healthcare staff at facilities in Lismore, Nimbin, Bonalbo, Urbenville, and Kyogle.

A Meaningful New Year’s Resolution Lismore Base Hospital General Manager Ian Hatton encourages

locals to consider volunteering as a way to give back while enhancing their own wellbeing.

“Volunteering is a fantastic New Year’s resolution because it helps others while enhancing your own wellbeing by helping you connect with people,” Mr. Hatton said.

The Healthcare Helpers program, launched in late 2023, has quickly become an integral part of the hospital community, offering roles such as: Greet and Guide

Healthcare Helper: Welcome visitors and assist them in navigating the hospital.

Patient Companion Helper: Provide comfort and companionship to patients, making their hospital stay more enjoyable. A Vital Role in Patient Care Volunteers are especially needed in critical areas, including the acute stroke and dementia unit and surgical wards.

“Our doctors, nurses, and allied

health staff deeply appreciate the support volunteers provide,” said Mr. Hatton. “We’re eager to welcome more people from diverse backgrounds to help refect our broader community and make patients feel more at ease.”

Volunteer Stories: Rewards Beyond Expectations

Jonathan Lawrence, a volunteer since 2024, highlights the fexibility and personal satisfaction of the role: “I like being a volunteer as I get to

meet a lot of people and feel part of the team. The hours are fexible, and I’m not tied down to a rigid schedule.”

Dorothy Thomas, one of the newest Healthcare Helpers, shared how the experience brings her joy and fulfllment: “Every day is different and good. It’s great seeing the amazing nursing staff working together for patients’ welfare. I love being able to give something extra to patients, like having a chat,

making them a cuppa, or even playing cards. It’s a pleasure, and I get back more than I give.” How to Get Involved

Volunteering is fexible and open to people from all walks of life. To apply or learn more, visit the Northern NSW Local Health District’s website at www.nnswlhd. health.nsw.gov. au/get-involved/ volunteering or email nnswlhdvolunteer@health. nsw.gov.au.

An aerial view of the old Grafton Jail, part of which will be incorporated in the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment.

It could be said that the Casino RSM Club runs in the blood of Trudy Lamont, who was recently elected unopposed as the frst female president to the board.

“I’ve been a member of the club since I was 18, and I’ve been coming here for as long as I can remember before that,” she said.

“I saw a mailout to members and a call for nominations and when I looked at the existing board, it was a mostly older and male dominated board. I noticed the younger demographic, especially families with young children, weren’t really represented.

“As someone who

First female president for RSM board

regularly takes kids to the club, I wanted to join to help make it more family friendly, as well as adding my professional skills to the role.”

That was four years ago, and despite being encouraged to stand for president two years ago, where Trudy felt she wasn’t ready, instead electing to be Senior Vice President, she has now taken up the mantle of president.

With a wealth of experience and background in law and governance, Trudy will no doubt be an asset, not only to the Casino RSM board, but the club and members in general.

“There have been a lot of changes in the club over the past four years,” said Trudy.

“We’ve worked on big projects outside the club and the family theme will be a continuing focus going forward.

“We are currently undertaking a feasibility report on how to accommodate families and children better, after our previous children’s

playroom had to be decommissioned after continuing vandalism.

“We are looking at a better way to cater to the kids.”

Having grown up in Casino, raised three children in the area and spent many a family celebration at the RSM

Club, Trudy is excited to be part of the future decision making of such an important community asset.

“In the last term, I was chairing a steering committee to create a much-needed youth hub for Casino that the club is backing fnancially,” she said.

“Our DA for this facility has now been approved and we will continue to progress the youth hub and hope to have an opening date in the not-too-distant future.

“The club is excited to be able to facilitate this for our community.”

When asked if she has had any negative pushback on her being the frst woman in the president’s chair, Trudy is philosophical.

“It’s different for the club as a whole and for the members,” she said.

“I was a solicitor for 20 years and worked in many places in senior roles.

“But I totally understand the signifcance of it being a big change.

“It’s different for me as well, but it doesn’t feel weird as I’ve had these types of roles over my career.

“Having the support of the rest of the board, who put me forward for this role and have put their faith in me, has me confdent in my ability to lead the club.”

Trudy also said the club’s new member forums have only shown encouragement and praise for the work of the board.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

Trudy Lamont President of Casino RSM

Controversial new body aims to streamline DA approval

TIM HOWARD

Developers in regional NSW with projects worth more than $30 million can seek to have their DA approval fast tracked through a new State Government body set up in December.

Called the Housing Delivery Authority, the body is troika comprising the Premier’s Department secretary Simon Draper, Department of Planning secretary Kiersten Fishburn and Infrastructure NSW chief executive Tom Gellibrand.

Their remit is to pluck proposals from the planning system or take developers’ applications, meet monthly to consider proposals and make recommendations to Planning Minister Paul Scully on whether to declare them as “state signifcant” developments.

The proposal has drawn both criticism and praise with local government concerned it is further erosion of their role to

have local control of development.

But others welcome the move to reduce bottle necks in the approval process.

Clarence Valley Council general manager Laura Black described the body as a state-led approval pathway that seeks to streamline approval and delivery of major housing proposals by removing local councils from the approval process.

Ms Black said the HDA pathway does not replace the existing “regionally signifcant development” pathway, where development applications are assessed by Clarence Valley Council’s professional staff and determined by the Northern Regional Planning Panel.

“From January 8, applicants may make an expression of interest to have their development applications declared as ‘State Signifcant Development’, where they are new housing projects over $30 million (on average 40 or more

homes) in regional NSW,” she said.

“The HDA pathway also includes an option where a State Signifcant Development application can be considered with a concurrent rezoning proposal.”

Ms Black said there were other areas where the authority could have an effect on the DA approval process.

“The HDA’s EoI process includes criteria that focuses on multi-dwelling housing, residential fat buildings, and shop-top housing delivery, including a contribution

to affordable housing supply, and limits proposals to locations that are well-serviced by infrastructure and free from environmental hazards and constraints, including food and bushfre prone areas,” she said.

“This means that subject to a proposal being accepted into the HDA pathway, Clarence Valley Council would have no role in assessment or determination of the State Signifcant Development application.”

Ms Black did not

comment on the criticism from some councils that this body concentrated decision making power with a few “distant bureaucrats” and removed local input and knowledge from the approval process for major projects.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said the authority was formally established on Thursday after a “short, sharp” consultation. He said the approval process would potentially shave a year off assessment times and marked a “signifcant change to how we bring major

housing developments to market”.

“These changes are about making it easier to increase housing supply near existing infrastructure vital to supporting thriving, vibrant communities, including more options for young people now and into the future,” he said.

From January 8, developers can submit expressions of interest to the authority for proposed large housing projects that have an estimated development cost above $60 million in Greater Sydney and above $30 million in regional NSW.

An estimated 80 to 100 proposals are expected to be assessed in the frst year.

More information on the Housing Delivery Authority and the process can be found here: www.planning. nsw.gov.au/policy-andlegislation/housing/ housing-deliveryauthority

Clarence Valley Council general manager Laura Black said a new DA approval authority could lead to the council having no say over some major developments in the region.

End of year review and looking ahead

JANELLE SAFFIN

The New Year is traditionally a time for reviewing the past year and planning for the year ahead.

While I often write about what I have been doing locally, I thought I would take this opportunity to give you a wrap up of some of the good news from the Minns Labor Government in 2024. Teacher vacancies have been slashed in regional NSW public schools.

There has been a 64 per cent drop in the number of merged and cancelled classes across the Lismore electorate in 2024.

95 per cent of public school principals say the mobile phone ban has improved student focus and reduced social isolation.

We’ve cut the elective surgery waiting list (waiting longer than clinically recommended) from 14,000 to 3,500 in one year

Introduced housing reforms– historic $5.1 billion investment in public housing, extensive planning reforms to deliver more homes and improve housing affordability and rental reforms- including banning no grounds evictions, limiting rent increases to once a year and making it easier to have pets in rentals.

Introduced the toughest domestic violence laws in the countrymaking it far harder for perpetrators to get bail.

We’ve introduced changes to planning controls to speed up the availability of crisis and temporary accommodation.

Bulk Billing incentive:

$189 million to safeguard bulk billing at GP clinics across the state by waiving payroll tax for GPS who bulk bill 70 per cent of appointments (80 per cent in metro areas).

First Home Buyers Assistance – waiving or reducing stamp duty for frst home buyers purchasing homes up to $1 million. This is the most generous frst home buyers support scheme in Australia.

Energy rebates: providing rebates on energy bills of $250 for families and seniors and $350 for low income households and those with medical conditions. This is on top of the Australian Government’s $300 energy relief

payment.

Wages: our budget provides for a 10.5 per cent pay rise over 3 years for the State’s essential workers. This comes on top of the 4.5 per cent pay rise last year, the biggest in over a decade. We have abolished the former government’s wages cap which caused real wages to go backwards over the 12 years they were in offce.

I note that the Nurses and Midwives pay claim has not yet been resolved and I continue to support them in their campaign.

This year we also saw the regional Drug Summit in Lismore and the NSW Summit in Sydney. Following on from that summit the Minns Government has announced a 12 month trial of pill testing at festivals. A welcome move to save lives.

SUMMER WEATHER WATCH

The start of the year it is historically a peak time for extreme weather events – storms, extreme heat, bushfres and foods. NRMA

Insurance has released its latest Wild Weather Tracker – which looks at our weather patterns and forecasts for the year ahead.

In 2024 the Richmond Tweed region was the hardest hit by weather events in NSW, making up 12 percent of weather damage insurance claims.

The report found that when going on holiday people will prioritise a tidy house over taking steps to protect it from severe weather.

The NRMA says if you are going to be away: Clear your gutters, downpipes and drains to protect from storm water overfow and property damage. Secure loose outdoor items; Clear overhanging trees and branches around your home – get a professional to do it if its dangerous- and clean up debris around your property.

The NRMA Wild Weather tracker can be found online by searching Help nation wild weather tracker.

Nominees Announced for the 2025 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards

Ballina Shire

Council invites the community to celebrate the extraordinary contributions of local individuals and groups at the 2025 Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony. The event will take place on Sunday, 26 January 2025, at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre, starting at 9am. Celebrating Our Community

The ceremony will commence with a Welcome to Country, followed by a citizenship ceremony welcoming 12 new Australians from diverse backgrounds, including Argentina, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. The highlight of the day will be the 2025 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards, honoring those who make Ballina Shire a better place to live. One exceptional nominee will be crowned Citizen of the Year.

Special Guests and Performances

The event will feature a special performance by talented singer Katie Rutledge and will be hosted by Sandra Jackson, a popular announcer from 101.9 Paradise FM, returning as the ceremony’s host. Family Fun in Lennox Park

After the formalities, the Lennox Head Lions Club will host a BBQ and live music at Lennox Park. Bring along your picnic blanket and swimmers to enjoy a relaxing afternoon of fun, food, and community spirit.

Australia Day: A Time to Refect and Celebrate

Australia Day is a moment to honor our shared history, celebrate our achievements, and embrace the multicultural identity that unites us as a nation. Whether sharing a meal, attending an event, or relaxing in the park, it’s a time to appreciate the proud traditions and diverse cultures that make our nation special. 2025 Australia Day Award Nominees

This year’s awards received over 40 nominations across eight categories, showcasing the talent, dedication, and hard work of the community. Categories include:

• Local Hero

• Young Citizen of the Year

• Senior Citizen of the Year

• Volunteer of the Year

• Sports Achievement

• Arts and Culture

• Environmental Contribution

• Community Event of the Year

The full list of nominees will be unveiled at the event, shining a spotlight on those who go above and beyond to make Ballina Shire an incredible place to live. Join Us to Celebrate Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate local heroes, welcome new citizens, and embrace the community spirit that makes Ballina Shire so special. For more details, visit the Ballina Shire Council website or follow their social media channels.

At the opening of the Gigadome at Lismore’s Heritage Park, from left, Lismore City Cr Harper Dalton-Earls, Lismore City Council Manager Liveable & Active Communities Tony Duffy, Janelle Saffn MP, Lismore City Cr Andrew Gordon and Heritage Park train-ride operator Brain Gray.

‘We need to get our country back on track’ Nationals

SAMANTHA ELLEY

The ‘games’ have begun and the frst local politician to prepare for this year’s federal election is sitting member for Page, Kevin Hogan pictured

Mr Hogan announced his endorsement by the Nationals party, early last week in the village of Clunes.

“I am humbled to have recently been endorsed as the Nationals candidate for this year’s federal election,” he said.

“It is an honour to serve our community and with their support I hope to continue to do so.”

Mr Hogan sees this federal election as signifcantly important due to the need to get the country back on track.

“I frmly believe our country isn’t heading in the right direction,” he said.

“We have a cost of living crisis and we also have a housing and rental crisis and part of that is the 1.2 million people that have come in over the last fve year period and we aren’t building the housing for them.”

Mr Hogan has blamed the cost of rising

grocery prices squarely in the government’s court.

“There’s a lot of costs and charges we believe Labor has added,” he said.

“One is the trucking tax, they made freight movement charges. The price of utes and SUVs has just gone up by January 1st.

“Water buyback that was instituted 12 months ago (means) they will be taking water out of the system from the farmers, that means we’re going to produce less food in Australia which I also believe will show we’ll have food increases as well.”

Mr Hogan said infation is still high and stayed that way for longer, not helped by Labor’s policies.

“Labor promised

a $275 cut to power bills,” he said.

“This didn’t happen.

“Instead, prices have increased, hurting our families and businesses.”

Mr Hogan said the Nationals have announced the frst of many policies if they are elected back into government.

“Our housing policy is a fve-billion-dollar infrastructure fund that we will give to local government,” he said.

“One of the constraints local governments face is specifc engineering costs, roads, getting the sewerage, getting the electricity.”

Regional Australia will receive 30 per cent of this Housing Infrastructure Programme unlocking up to 500,000 homes across Australia.

Developer to fght planning panel DA refusal

The developers of a 284-lot, $53.6 million sub-division in West Yamba, knocked back by the Northern Regional Planning Panel in June, will fght the decision.

In June last year the NRPP refused by three votes to one a DA lodged for 52-54 Miles St. Developer Garrard Building Pty Ltd, acting for owners Kahuna No.1 Pty Ltd, appealed the decision and the matter will now move to the NSW Land and Environment Court.

The NRPP is a State Government body set up to determine DAs of “state signifcance” valued at more than $30 million.

An LEC conciliation conference has been scheduled on site on February 14, beginning at 10.30am.

The NRPP, comprising chair Michael Wright, Stephen Gow, Penny Holloway and then Clarence Valley councillor Ian Tiley refused the DA on June 17. Ms Holloway voted in favour of the DA.

The NRPP gave the following reasons for refusing the application relating to flling of the site, the food risk and evacuation, community concerns about fooding, and the management of acid sulphate Soils:

“The proposed development relies upon signifcant additional flling of the subject site. There is some discrepancy between the assessment report and the submitted application documents in relation to the intended minimum fnished surface levels. Insuffcient information was evident as to the quantity of additional (not yet approved) fll material,

an approved source for this and the required method of transport to the site. Accordingly, the panel could not be satisfed as to the environmental and amenity impacts of this required flling activity as part of the project.”

Court documents reveal DA proponents commenced proceedings to appeal against the decision in July.

On December 20 the solicitors representing Clarence Valley Council, Marsdens Law Group, provided a letter dated December 19 to residents who provided submissions to the DA that they had been instruction to defend the panels decision to refuse the DA.

At the February hearing a maximum of six residents who objected to the DA may be able to make an oral presentation of their concerns.

The presiding commissioner has the discretion to decide if residents may speak at the conciliation conference.

Should they be allowed to speak they will not be permitted to attend the remainder of the conciliation conference after they have spoken because the conference is a conciliation between the parties.

Residents wishing to speak at the conference should contact Alicia Foley at MLG, 02 4640 3618 or afoley@marsdens. net.au by February 5 to register their interest.

A vocal opponent of the DA has been the Yamba Community Action Network.

It’s chair, Col Shephard, said Yamba CAN was of the view that all people who made submissions to the DA should have received correspondence

from council’s solicitors in relation to this matter.

The DA has gone through a number of changes since it was originally submitted in 2019.

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

Then the 310-lot subdivision DA was withdrawn by the applicant in September 2022, before it was set to be determined by the Northern Regional Planning Panel NRPP, and a revised DA SUB2023/0001 for the 284-lot subdivision was resubmitted in December 2022.

The proposal was for a 284-lot subdivision comprising 277 low density residential lots, 1 medium density residential development lot, 1 commercial development lot, 1 low density development lot, 3 drainage reserve lots, and 1 open space reserve lot at 52 – 54 Miles Street, Yamba, off Carrs Drive. When the DA was placed on public exhibition, council received 330 submissions about the proposal, with just three in support.

Clarence Valley Council planning staff did an updated assessment of the proposal dated June 1, 2024, which recommended the development be approved.

The decision of the NRPP to refuse the application pursuant to section 4.16 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 was published just before midday on Monday, June 17

TIM HOWARD

IS A NEW BRANCH OPEN IN BALLINA?

BRANCH MANAGER

338 RIVER ST, BALLINA

FAMILY OWNED, LOCALLY OPERATED

Shane Watson

Broadwater to Shine as Host of Richmond Valley’s Australia Day Celebrations

JEFF GIBBS

Richmond Valley Council warmly invites residents and visitors to celebrate Australia Day 2025 with a vibrant, family-friendly event at Broadwater Community Hall on Sunday, 26 January. Starting at 9am, the day promises to be a heartfelt tribute to community spirit, resilience, and the shared values that unite the Richmond Valley.

Celebrating Local Heroes: Australia Day Awards

At the heart of the celebrations is the prestigious Richmond

Valley Australia Day Awards, which will begin at 10am. These awards honor the remarkable contributions of 16 exceptional individuals across six categories:

• Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year

• Volunteer of the Year and Young Volunteer of the Year

• Sportsperson of the Year and Young Sportsperson of the Year

This year’s nominees include:

Ruby Beckenham, Neil Burnett, Indi Butcher, Calean Cooper, Philip Cornish, Paul Cowles, Travis Dhu, Shae Fuller, Joshua Fussell, Crystal

League draw out for this season

TIM HOWARD

Grafton’s rugby league fans can start planning their winter activities following their favourite league teams following the release of the Group 2 Rugby League draw.

The competition kicks off on Saturday, April 12 and the Grafton Ghosts will be the frst local club in action playing 2024 preliminary fnalists, the Sawtell Panthers away on Saturday.

The South Grafton Rebels, which didn’t host a home game in season 2024 until May, will have the Rebels faithful behind them from game one.

But the Rebels have drawn a hard opponent frst up with last season’s runner-up Woolgoolga making the trip to McKittrick Park.

The next notable date for Grafton league fans is the frst local derby scheduled for McKittrick Park on the Anzac Day weekend on Sunday, April 27.

The Coffs Harbour Comets also kick off their season at home

Gill, Stephen Humphrys, Scott Lambeth, Melinda McLennan, Elyse McMaster, Christine Warren, and Abby Watson.

Through their inspiring stories of dedication, innovation, and perseverance, these individuals have enriched the lives of many in the Richmond Valley. Their achievements will be showcased in a stunning multimedia exhibition of photos and videos during the event. Following the celebrations, the exhibition will be displayed at the Casino Community and Cultural Centre for a month-long

public viewing.

Welcoming New Australians

In a poignant ceremony led by Mayor Robert Mustow, 11 individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds will offcially become Australian citizens. This citizenship ceremony, a highlight of the day, symbolizes the welcoming and inclusive nature of the Richmond Valley, further enhancing the region’s rich cultural tapestry.

Fun for All Ages: Music, Food, and Activities

The Australia Day celebrations in Broadwater promise a

full day of entertainment and enjoyment for the whole family. Attendees can look forward to:

• Live music performances showcasing local talent.

• Children’s entertainment in the community hall and at Broadwater Memorial Park.

• Food and market stalls offering delicious treats and locally made goods.

“This Australia Day, we celebrate not only our nation’s heritage but also the unique sense of community and diversity that defnes the Richmond Valley,” said Mayor Mustow.

Join the Festivities Whether you’re coming to honor the achievements of our local heroes, witness the joy of new Australians taking their citizenship oath, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, Broadwater is the place to be this Australia Day. For more information, visit the Richmond Valley Australia Day Facebook page. Let’s come together to celebrate the extraordinary stories and people that make the Richmond Valley so special!

when they host the Macksville Sea Eagles on Sunday, April 13. Nambucca Heads Roosters begin their premiership defence in Round 2, when they travel to take on the Grafton Ghosts. Nambucca Heads Roosters and Woolgoolga Seahorses meet in their grand fnal rematch during Round 7 in Woolgoolga.

Coffs Harbour Comets and Sawtell Panthers meet in their frst local derby of the season on Sunday, May 18 at Geoff King Motors Oval.

Coffs Harbour Comets reserve grade side will be going for three straight premierships this season, as they begin their campaign with a grand fnal rematch against the Macksville Sea Eagles.

Sawtell Panthers women begin their premiership defence at home against the Grafton Ghosts.

The 14-round season wraps up on the weekend of August 2-3, with fnals getting underway on Saturday, August 9.

The grand fnal is set for Sunday, August 31.

Trigger moments as LA burns

Since the February 2022 foods I feel like my empathy muscle has grown exponentially.

Every time I see a disaster in the news, either overseas or here in Australia, I am transfxed and memories and emotions come streaming back.

I have an insight into what the victims are feeling, what they will be going through and what road they will need to travel in the near future.

When the hurricanes hit Florida, when further foods affected other Australian towns and now the bushfres in Los Angeles, to name a few.

All of them have drawn me to stare at the news on television or got me clicking through to online stories on my laptop to fnd out the latest.

While I don’t know anyone in LA, I feel the

angst for those who have lost their houses in this ‘apocalyptic’ event.

One woman was interviewed where she described how her children’s schools were no longer there, neither were her neighbours, the library, all the businesses and community buildings…all gone.

Another exp-pat Australian woman had to go to Target to buy everything from underwear to toothbrushes.

Her description of wandering around in circles crying and not sure what to do next struck a chord.

Many a time after the food I felt like I was in a confusion bubble, wandering the shops trying to gather a plan of what we needed, but not knowing where to start when there was so much

we had to get.

There will be plenty of that in Los Angeles over the days, weeks and months as they overcome the tragedy of the wildfres that have hit this iconic city.

There will be fngerpointing, there will be donations, there will be blaming, there will be people living with friends, family and even strangers.

Community spirit will come to the fore with restaurants providing food, airbnbs offering accommodation. It will be a beautiful reaction to a devastating time.

If you would like to donate to help those suffering through the loss of their homes, here is a link to the California Community Foundation: calfund.org/funds/ wildfre-recovery-fund.

Nominations now open for 2025 Seniors Local Achievement Awards

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn (pictured) is encouraging residents of the Lismore electorate to celebrate the positive role seniors play in the community by putting in a nomination for the 2025 NSW Seniors Festival Local Achievement Awards.

“If you know a senior who helps make our community diverse, inspiring and active, then I encourage you to nominate them for acknowledgement of their contribution

“The annual NSW Seniors Festival is about celebrating the positive impact of older people in our families and society.

“Nominations are now open for the awards program, one of many initiatives the NSW Government promotes to support the state’s seniors living happy, healthy, and active lives.

Winners of the Local Achievement Awards will be announced during the NSW Seniors Festival which runs from 3rd-16th March 2025

By highlighting seniors’ continued efforts in helping the Lismore electorate thrive, we are continuing to challenge ageism and empower seniors to overcome social stigmas.

For more information about NSW Seniors Festival and the Local Achievement Awards, visit seniorsfestival.nsw. gov.au.

Nomination forms available from the Lismore Electorate Offce at 55 Carrington Street, or by emailing lismore@parliament. nsw.gov.au

Nominations close 5pm Friday, 21 February 2025.

Safety Upgrade for Rous Road Roundabout Begins, Temporary Detours in Place

JEFF GIBBS

Lismore City Council has announced the start of a $1.1 million safety upgrade for the Rous Road and Oliver Avenue roundabout, aiming to improve motorist safety in the area. Funded by Transport for NSW under the Australian Government’s Black Spot program, the project is expected to take eight weeks to complete, weather permitting.

Addressing a History of Accidents

Over the past fve years, six accidents have occurred on or near the roundabout, highlighting the need for action.

“Something clearly needed to be done,” said

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg. “We are committed to ensuring the safety of our community, and this upgrade will deliver that.”

What the Upgrade Involves

The project will be completed in two phases:

1. Initial works: Upgrading existing drainage infrastructure and widening the road pavement to the north of the roundabout.

2. Construction phase:

Building a new, larger concrete and asphalt roundabout with a 6m-wide travel lane, improving access from Jubilee Avenue and the Caroona Marima Care Facility.

Temporary Traffc Changes

Starting Monday, 13

January, Jubilee Avenue will be closed to through traffc at the roundabout for the remainder of the works. A detour will redirect traffc via Phillip Street, McDermott Avenue, and Oliver Avenue. Stop/go signs and reduced speed limits will also be in place.

“We all have a role to play in road safety, and I want to thank the community for their cooperation and patience,”

Mayor Krieg said.

Key Safety Features

The upgrade includes:

• Improved sightlines by removing three trees on the northern side of Rous Road, which will be replaced nearby.

• Modifcations to the Caroona Care Facility driveways, changing the

current entry/exit to an Exit Only and creating a new Entry Only point off Rous Road, approximately 40m west of the roundabout.

• Enhanced safety for vehicles turning at Jubilee Avenue and Rous Road, addressing confusion caused by their close proximity.

Background on the Black Spot Designation

The roundabout’s inclusion in the Black Spot program was based on:

• Limited sight distance due to large trees and low lighting.

• The crest of the intersection reducing stopping time for motorists exiting Jubilee Avenue.

• Historical accident

data, with six recorded incidents between 2018 and 2023.

Future Plans

The Council has confrmed the development of another roundabout at Reserve Street as part of the broader Rous Road design, with timing yet to be fnalized.

For residents and motorists, the temporary disruptions during construction will lead to long-term improvements in safety and traffc fow. The Council urges all road users to follow the temporary detours and traffc controls during this period.

CASTROL LISMORE SPEEDWAY: MARCUS DUMESNY IS $10,000 RICHER AFTER LIL’ AUSSIE OPEN WIN

Marcus Dumesny’s 410 Sprintcar victory in the $10,000-to-win Lil’

Aussie Open at Castrol Lismore Speedway, Wednesday January 8, carried greater signifcance than just getting to the chequered fag frst.

It was a personal triumph over back injuries that stalled his career with a stint on the sidelines which also put his seasonal campaigns on hold for sometime – in fact his last victory was the New South Wales Sprintcar Championship on April 1, 2023 at Sydney’s Eastern Creek Speedway. Back in Victory Lane

for the frst time in close to two years, an elated Marcus Dumesny summed it best with just a few words: “It’s been a long road back.”

Dumesny showed all his familiar speed , typifed when he put down the fastest lap of the Lil’ Aussie Open at mid-distance with a time of 11.309 seconds for a speed of 127.332 km/h around the tight confnes of the Lismore Showground bull ring.

Harry Stewart flled the runner-up position on the podium, while the drive of the night came from Luke Oldfeld who started from the back and charged from position 17 into third position!

Late afternoon – early evening rain delayed

the start of the meeting, watched by a big crowd including City of Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg.

Several attempts were made to get the frst lap of the main event completed in incidents that took out one of the pre-race favourites Alex Attard.

When the 25-lap feature settled down, Dumesny

commanded the role of pacemaker, chased hard by Stewart, while Mitch Randell was right with Stewart.

Further into the race, Brodie Davis gained ground on Randall. Randall became one of the hard luck stories of the race when he rode a wheel and crashed into the fence with 18 laps

remaining.

Oldfeld was a man on the move as he threaded his way through the feld. American Andy Pake ran in ffth as Oldfeld loomed into contention.

Oldfeld passed Pake, then Mitch Gowland in a superb drive into the top three.

It was not an easy night for Oldfeld who had an incident in an earlier heat and fnished in the fence. Without a heat result it meant he started at the back in the feature race and what followed from Oldfeld was one of the highlights of the night.

The top ten fnishing order was Marcus Dumesny, Harry Stewart, Luke Oldfeld, Mitch Gowland, Andy Pake, Callum Walker, Nash

Morris, Tony Bridge, Daniel Bridge and Bradi Owen.

Heat wins went to Dumesny and Stewart.

The main focus of the pre-meeting publicity and mainstream media coverage was the appearance of Americans Pake and Chase Randall. However Randall was an unfortunate late withdrawal from the fxture.

Other feature race winners on what was a very successful and entertaining night of racing were Jacob Jolley (LS 360 Sprintcars), Matt O’Neill (Compact Speedcars), Lindsay Clapham (Production Sedans) and Mitchell Haynes (Wingless Sprints).

DENNIS NEWLYN

Lil' Aussie Open winner Marcus Dumesny (centre) pictured with runner-up Harry Stewart (left) and third-placed Luke Oldfeld.

Photo: Tony Powell.

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

MUM JANE’S WARNING from COLESWORTH

‘Mum, WHY are you stomping around saying rude words? You’ve just been out to do our weekly ESSENTIALS shopping and, by the way, how come it took you so long? Well?’

(‘Leemo Cat’ here) I received a scowl from hell with a snarly demand I make her tea mixed with a nip of Brandy immediately. (OMG, she IS upset??) ‘Now, just listen Leems. I was ‘semi-arrested’ whilst I was shopping at Colesworth; I’m very stressed…gottit?’

(“SEMI” arrested?

Hmmm! is is a new one even for Mum who can come out with truly outrageous stu !) I spoke. ‘Oooh, poor Mumsie, (using my sleek soothy purry voice) I’m so saddened to hear about what must have been a dreadful experience; I’m quite certain it would not have been YOUR fault? Tell me what happened and we can talk about it’. She glared at me warily. ‘Don’t suck up Leems, you know I hate it!! Just bloody listen. I was ‘semi’ arrested simply for saying ‘kinda’ rude words out loud in Colesworth. Comprende?’ Eeeks! (NUP, I didn’t comprende at all but decided to err on the side of caution in this volatile situation.)

A er more Brandy nips than tea she settled. (aaargh!!) ‘OK Leems, let me tell you; there I was, minding my own business, wandering the Colesworth aisles with our ‘essentials’ list. Are you with me?’ ‘Errr, yep, I’m with you Mum.’ She continued: ‘AND, halfway down the Cereal aisle an o cial looking person with a uniform, badge (his name =

Hector…for crikey’s sake Leems, WHO gets called Hector? His parents must be most strange!) approached me & asked if we could have a chat. Leems, I glared at him and asked why he would wish to speak with a poor old Pensioner just going about her meagre shopping? ‘Hec’ haughtily informed me another shopper had bought to his attention I had been uttering rude words as I inspected the $ COST of stu .’ OMG, in my feline heart-of-hearts I believe what ‘Hec’ had to say was a 100% true probability. (Mind you, I was secretly enthralled by Mum’s story & can’t wait to tell my buddies ‘Mum’s a Crim!!) ‘So, Mum, what happened next?’ ‘Well Leems, in my best Pensioner (denture rattling) quivering voice, I told ‘Hec’ that the reason I used rude words was due to my dismay at the exorbitant COST of CAT FOOD (AND 90% of other essential items!) in Colesworth. I went on to explain (& chucked a few tears down my wrinkled cheeks) that my beloved Cat ‘Leemo’ was having to go without his favourite treats due to the cost & was facing appalling malaise; as he is my friend and companion I was considerably emotional & used rude words in error and therefore ‘Hec’ your Highnesty’, please accept my most utmost sorriness & promise I will NEVER use rude words in Colesworth again. Leems, I then added ‘Bless you & your Mum ‘Hec’ for bringing this to my elderly forgetful attention.’ Crikey!! ‘MUM, what happened next?’ ‘Well Leems, NOTHING MUCH ‘cept I was given an OFFICIAL warning by Haughty ‘Hec’ that if I use rude words again in Colesworth I’m banned & will get a FINE! ‘Mum, well, let’s go to ALDI… whaddya reckon?’ Ni y; her face lit up! Let’s go Leems. We’ll save heapsa $ & never have to go to Colesworth again. Whoohoo. Me & Mum had purry hugs & headed for our wee car. Nitey, Leemo.

Pets In The Park Opens Northern Rivers Clinic to Support Homeless Pet Owners

JEFF GIBBS

Pets In The Park (PITP), a national charity providing free veterinary care to pets of people experiencing homelessness, has announced the opening of its newest clinic in Northern Rivers, a region facing some of the highest homelessness rates in Australia.

For many individuals experiencing homelessness, pets are a source of companionship, hope, and unconditional love. However, the fnancial burden of pet ownership often forces them to prioritize their pets’ needs over their own, making access to basic veterinary care a signifcant challenge.

“Pet ownership brings immense joy and enrichment, but also substantial fnancial challenges,” said Jay Potter, President of PITP. “Too often, owners sacrifce their own welfare to ensure their pets’ health. This is where Pets In The Park plays such an important role.”

A Monthly Lifeline for Homeless Pet Owners

The new monthly clinic, held in Byron Bay, will support individuals and their pets living rough in Ballina, Lismore, Mullumbimby, Evans Head, and surrounding areas. Accessible via referrals from local homelessness support organizations, the clinic will offer free veterinary consultations, vaccinations, parasite control, microchipping, and treatment of common ailments.

In addition to healthcare, donated pet products, including food, bedding, and toys, will be distributed to enhance the pets’ overall wellbeing.

A Collaborative Effort

The clinic’s establishment is the result of a year of dedicated planning by

veterinary professionals

Dr. Elizabeth Settles, Helen McGregor, and Lauren Archer, working with PITP’s national offce. They secured a venue, gathered local veterinarians and vet nurses willing to volunteer, and developed a sustainable model to improve healthcare for these pets.

“This started with a conversation about the parvo outbreak in Lismore and how unaffordable vaccines were impacting puppies,” said Dr. Settles. “It evolved into creating a clinic to address broader veterinary care challenges for homeless pet owners.”

From March 2025, students from Southern Cross University’s new Vet Science program

will join as volunteers, gaining invaluable experience while helping the community.

A Region in Crisis

The Northern Rivers region faces an acute housing crisis, with skyrocketing property prices and a highly competitive rental market that often excludes pet owners. Many individuals live in cars or refuse emergency accommodation to keep their pets. The lingering effects of natural disasters have only exacerbated these challenges.

Get Involved Veterinary professionals are invited to volunteer through PITP’s website at www.petsinthepark. org.au. The charity relies solely on donations, with contributions over $2 tax-deductible in Australia.

By providing essential services to pets and their owners, Pets In The Park is making a critical difference in the lives of Northern Rivers residents, helping them navigate the challenges of homelessness while keeping their beloved companions by their side.

Rous Drinking Water Passes PFAS Safety Testing, Reaffrming High Standards

JEFF GIBBS

Independent laboratory testing has confrmed that Rous County Council’s (Rous) drinking water continues to meet the highest safety standards, with PFAS (per- and polyfuoroalkyl substances) undetectable at levels set by the Australian Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

Samples collected from across Rous’ water network were recently tested by NSW Health. The results, received in

December 2024, showed no detectable PFAS, aligning with Rous’ own routine testing conducted since 2023.

“I am pleased to share that the analysis undertaken by NSW Health has returned excellent results, with PFAS undetectable in all samples,” said Adam Nesbitt, Group Manager Operations at Rous.

“This reaffrms the safety and quality of our drinking water and refects the robust testing program we’ve maintained for some time. By conducting

regular testing and transparent reporting, we ensure our water supply meets — and exceeds — national safety standards.”

Understanding PFAS PFAS are humanmade chemicals used in various products, including non-stick cookware, frefghting foams, water-repellent fabrics, and food packaging, due to their resistance to heat, water, and grease. While useful, their durability means they persist in the environment, leading to strict guidelines for safe

levels in drinking water.

Proactive Measures Rous has taken a proactive approach to PFAS monitoring, conducting routine testing and publishing results in its Annual Water Quality Summary Report, available online.

“Our commitment to maintaining water quality ensures that the residents of the Northern Rivers region receive safe and reliable water,” Nesbitt added.

For more information, visit Rous County Council’s website.

Court Orders Holiday Letting Business at Kinabalu Farm to Shut Down

A remote holiday letting operation in the bush at Middle Pocket has been ordered to close after the NSW Land and Environment Court ruled that its dwellings were unauthorised and did not meet safety or building standards.

The owners of Kinabalu Farm, located at 333 Skyline Road, had been operating since 2022, offering visitors a rustic experience with basic cabin-like dwellings, including a handmade treehouse called The Treepod. Described as “the ultimate nature lovers and wilderness experience,” the site was accessible only by four-wheel drive and was nestled deep in heavily vegetated bushland.

Council Takes Legal Action

Late last year, Byron Shire Council brought

legal action against the owners, citing serious concerns over the safety and legality of the accommodations. The case was heard by Justice Nicola Pain, who found in favor of the Council.

On November 15, Justice Pain ordered the immediate cessation of all holiday letting activities at Kinabalu Farm, including the use

of fve unauthorised buildings: four cabins and The Treepod.

Serious Safety Concerns

In her judgment, Justice Pain noted that the property’s location posed signifcant risks, particularly with the imminent bushfre season.

“The location of the property is in a heavily

vegetated area, with limited access,” Justice Pain said. “The main usable road access is by four-wheel-drive only. There is a potentially serious environmental issue.”

An inspection by a building certifer revealed extensive noncompliance with building standards, including:

• Balconies without

balustrades.

• Access ways lacking railings.

• Absence of fre-rated and ember-retardant materials.

• Windows opening directly to the ground.

Additionally, the court found there was no development consent for the dwellings to be used for short-term rentals, nor was there a publicly registered management plan to alert emergency services to the site’s existence.

Immediate Action Ordered

Justice Pain directed the owners to:

• Cease advertising the unauthorised dwellings.

• Remove all promotional materials.

• Allow Council to inspect the property with 48 hours’ notice to ensure compliance. Failed Defence

While the owners’ solicitor suggested they intended to rely on

existing use rights as a defence, no formal case was fled. Justice Pain noted that the business had been given ample time to substantiate this claim but failed to do so.

Community and Environmental Impact

The court highlighted the potential dangers posed by the remote, heavily vegetated location, particularly during bushfre season. The case underscores the importance of adhering to planning and safety standards, especially in environmentally sensitive and high-risk areas.

Kinabalu Farm has been ordered to halt all bookings and operations until the dwellings comply with regulations, marking a signifcant victory for Byron Shire Council in safeguarding community and environmental interests.

MILESTONE IN GRAFTON BASE HOSPITAL REDEVELOPMENT WELCOME

Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has welcomed the latest milestone in the redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital, with part of the former Grafton Gaol site set to be acquired to support the hospital upgrade.

The $263.8 million project was initially committed by the former NSW Liberal and Nationals Government, and Mr Williamson is pleased to see the current NSW Labor Government honour this crucial investment.

“This redevelopment is vital for ensuring that

Grafton Base Hospital meets the growing healthcare needs of our region, and I am delighted that work is progressing with bipartisan support,” Mr Williamson said.

The adaptive reuse of the former Grafton

Gaol site aligns with a conservation management plan to preserve its heritage while providing new, much-needed administrative, offce, and training facilities for Grafton Base Hospital staff. A

development application for refurbishing two administration blocks within the north-eastern corner of the gaol has already been approved.

The broader redevelopment will deliver a new threestorey acute services

building, with expanded Emergency Department and operating facilities, signifcantly boosting local healthcare capacity. Refurbishment works at the former gaol site are expected to commence this year, with timelines for the full project to be confrmed once a builder is appointed.

Mr Williamson further highlighted the economic and community benefts of reactivating this iconic site.

“I commend the NSW Government for acquiring this space for healthcare use and look forward to seeing its transformation beneft our local community.”

For more details on the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment, visit: hinfra.health.nsw.gov. au

Photo courtesy of newsouthwaleshotels.net

ROBERT HEYWARD

Samantha’s Book

Key Milestone to Secure Safe Drinking Water for Tabulam

JEFF GIBBS

Finding family far from home

Title: Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens

Author: Shankari Chandran

Price: $21.25

Distributor: Booktopia By Samantha Elley

When I grow up to be a fully-fedged author, I want to be like Shankari Chandran.

I have to admit when I picked this book, I did so for the title. Who doesn’t love a good chai?

And the thought of having it in whatever Cinnamon Gardens were, sounded delightful. Turns out Cinnamon Gardens is a nursing home where residents have their own colourful histories, secrets, triumphs and disasters. Chandran introduces the reader to each of the characters in her lyrical, elegant and descriptive style showing how they have arrived there and what motivates their actions.

Many of the residents

The remote village of Tabulam in the Northern Rivers is on the brink of a transformative milestone, with plans underway for its frstever drinking water supply network. A $400,000 investment from Kyogle Council and the Australian Government’s National Water Grid Fund will kickstart early planning for the much-anticipated project.

The co-funded initiative will launch the preliminary business case for a three-stage construction project designed to provide a safe, clean, and reliable water supply to the village’s 500 residents, over a quarter of whom are Aboriginal.

Laying the Groundwork

are from a non-white Australian background, adding a unique favour of experience, culture, practices and norms. Within their differences and as they overcome the obstacles they endure, they fnd trust, family, competitiveness, loyalty and not a few lighthearted moments.

As some of these relationships take a turn for the worst and a strong under-current of racism rears its ugly head, the residents of Cinnamon Gardens will have to learn to fght new battles. Will they be able to survive and what devastating consequences lie ahead?

Shankari Chandran was born in London to Tamil refugees from Sri Lanka. She grew up in Canberra and studied law at the University of NSW, later working as a human rights lawyer in London. Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens was published in 2022 and won the 2023 Miles Franklin Award.

You can order your copy of Finding family far from home from www.booktopia.com.au

effective solutions.

The early planning work will deliver detailed analysis and designs for the project, including:

• Stage 1: Hydrogeological investigations, bore construction, and land acquisition for a water treatment plant and reservoir.

• Stage 2: Utilization of Hall Bore as a raw water source, construction of a new reservoir, and connecting the supply network to village homes.

• Stage 3: Expansion of the water supply source to include Clarence River groundwater and upgrading the treatment plant to accommodate future population growth.

The new funding builds on a 2021 scoping study, funded by the NSW Government, which explored various infrastructure options to identify the most

A Lifeline for Tabulam Currently, Tabulam residents rely entirely on rainwater tanks for drinking and household use, leaving the community vulnerable to water scarcity during droughts. This lack of critical infrastructure

has hindered economic growth and driven population decline, with the village losing about 20% of its residents since 2011.

The water supply project, alongside plans for a new town sewerage system, aims to reverse these trends by providing essential services and paving the way for longterm community growth and prosperity.

Voices of Support

NSW DCCEEW

Executive Director of Infrastructure Development, Lisa Hingerty, emphasized the signifcance of the project:

“Every person in NSW deserves clean and reliable drinking water, whether you’re from Sydney or live in one of our most remote communities. This project is a game changer for the hundreds of people who call Tabulam home. Locals have been crying out for this essential infrastructure for decades, and this funding is a signifcant step toward making that

a reality.”

Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland hailed the project as a landmark achievement:

“This is a landmark project for our community, over 70 years in the making. These early planning works are a big tick for Tabulam, setting the village on the path to its frst secure water supply network. The benefts will be enormous, from improving health and wellbeing to supporting economic growth and development.”

Looking Ahead

The preliminary business case is expected to be completed by mid to late 2025, moving the project closer to construction. Once realized, the water supply network will provide a secure, treated drinking water source to Tabulam residents, meeting the village’s needs for decades to come.

For more information, visit the project website.

Casino RSM Club Welcomes First Woman President to the Board

The Casino RSM Club has reached a historic milestone with the appointment of Trudy Lamont as the frst woman to serve as President of the Board of Directors.

This landmark achievement highlights the Club’s dedication to fostering inclusivity, innovation, and leadership excellence, marking a new chapter in its storied history.

A Trailblazer for the Club

A lifelong resident of Casino, Ms. Lamont was re-elected to the Board for her third term in November and brings a wealth of experience to her new role. With Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in law, Ms. Lamont specializes in corporate governance

and organizational risk management. Her extensive background in small business, compliance, and legal affairs makes her exceptionally well-suited to lead the Club into its next era.

“This is not only a personal honour but also an important moment for the Casino RSM Club,” Ms. Lamont said. “I am committed to building on the Club’s rich legacy while creating opportunities for growth, innovation, and inclusivity.”

Vision for the Future

As President, Ms. Lamont plans to focus on expanding Club initiatives, enhancing member engagement, and strengthening community partnerships. Her leadership signals a renewed emphasis on progress while honoring the traditions that have

made the Casino RSM Club a cornerstone of the community.

Endorsement from Leadership and Members

The Board, staff, and Club members have enthusiastically welcomed Ms. Lamont’s appointment, seeing it as a signifcant step forward.

CEO John Walker praised Ms. Lamont’s leadership: “This milestone underscores our Club’s belief in breaking barriers and driving progress. Trudy brings fresh perspectives and energy to the Board, and we’re excited about the future under her guidance.”

New Board Members

Ms. Lamont will lead a talented team on the Board, including:

• Frank McKey, Senior Vice President

• Jim Battese, Junior

Vice President

• John Black, Treasurer

• Vickie McAlister

• Troy Freeburn

• Sharon Davidson

• Matthew Sharpe

• John McMahon

Together, the Board is committed to advancing the Club’s mission and serving the Casino community.

A Historic Moment

Ms. Lamont’s appointment as the frst female president of the Casino RSM Club Board is not just a personal triumph but a meaningful step toward greater representation and inclusivity in leadership roles.

Her vision and expertise promise to guide the Club into a bright future, reinforcing its role as a vital part of Casino’s social and cultural fabric.

JEFF GIBBS

‘Give It Your All’: Future Students Invited to SAE Byron

Bay Info Night on January 16

ROBERT HEYWARD

Future creatives, get ready to kick off the new year with inspiration and direction at the SAE

Byron Bay Info Night on Thursday, January 16, 2025. This exciting event offers a behindthe-scenes look at one of Australia’s top creative tertiary education providers and is set to be a night of discovery, learning, and connection. From food trucks to student success stories, attendees will explore the vibrant world of creative media and technology at SAE’s six campuses across the country.

Discover Your Creative Path

Whether you’re a budding designer, flmmaker, animator, or aspiring music producer, SAE Info Night is the perfect opportunity to dive into your passion.

Explore SAE’s wide range of creative courses,

including:

• Design

• Film • Music

• VFX & Virtual Production

• Animation

• Audio

• Computer Science

• Creative Industries

• Games

Guidance and Insight from Experts

SAE faculty will be on campus to offer one-onone guidance, helping

future students fnd the right course to match their aspirations and career goals. Attendees will also have the chance to connect with SAE’s student services team, who provide support ranging from academic assistance to career advice.

Real

Stories, Real Inspiration

One of the highlights of the night will be the student and alumni

speakers, sharing their journeys and achievements since studying at SAE. At the Byron Bay campus, guests will hear from Bronte Dunning, a Bachelor of Film Production graduate who has been running her own videography and photography business since graduating in 2022.

“My biggest career highlights are defnitely flming Blues Fest

Byron Bay for the past three years and working recently with NITV for the Australian Women in Music Awards,” Bronte shared.

“SAE gave me the skills and confdence to start my own business and connected me with a wide network of creatives. My advice for new students? Apply yourself in every class and give it your all. What you put in is what

you get out. And most importantly, have fun with it!”

A Night to Explore and Enjoy

Attendees will get to tour the campus, enjoy delicious bites from local food trucks, and connect with faculty, staff, and current students. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the creative environment that SAE is known for and discover how to turn your passion into a career.

Join the Creative Community

Don’t miss this opportunity to step into the world of creative media and technology.

SAE Byron Bay Info Night is open to all future students or anyone curious about a creative career.

For more information and to register, visit the SAE website. Take the frst step toward a career that lights you up!

Bronte Dunning - Former SAE Graduate and owner of Bronte Dunning Creative NEWCOLOUR

HAVING had a week or two over the break to kick back, relax, reset and prepare for the rigours of a brand-new year, I decided to meander through the works of one of my favourite writers, the now largely unreferred to, if not outright unreflected upon Englishman – John Galsworthy.

Factoring in the silent ‘w’ in the word ‘writer’, the attempt to be as objectively right as possible, without being obnoxiously self-righteous, is what appeals to me in the writings of those I most esteem. Sensing that I’ve somehow become a better person through having read something that someone else has said, brings me a level of invigoration and pure elevation that I can’t even remotely convey. Which lands me right back into the creative realm of John Galsworthy, the lawyercum-lauded winner of the 1932 Nobel Prize for Literature. Being a none too keen-eyed observer of his upper-middle class compatriots, not to mention the everquickening, high-speed train, that is modern life, Galsworthy once noted, “Honesty of thought and speech and written word is a jewel; and they who curb prejudice and seek honourably to know and speak the truth are the only true builders of a better life.”

Intriguingly, Galsworthy met ‘by chance’ and became a lifelong friend of – an as yet unpublished – Joseph Conrad in 1893, aboard a sailing ship bound for Britain, in Adelaide. Which is another mind-boggling example of how two great cultural figures crossed paths to bolster one another,

Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment Secures Historic Site for Expansion

along the same uplifting lines as the ‘in person’ connection shared by Socrates and Plato; Emerson and Thoreau; Tolstoy and Chekhov, to name just a select few.

As if he were referencing his very own creative manner, albeit far-reaching and refined mannerisms as a writer, Galsworthy once said of a fellow wordsmith, “Without apparent effort he takes you with him into a rare, free, natural world, and always you are refreshed, stimulated, enlarged by going there. He puts down what he sees and feels, out of sheer love of the thing seen, and the emotion felt.”

Overwhelmingly, John Galsworthy is mentioned as a novelist, on those rare occasions that he is mentioned at all; but I find his essays and prose among the most impressively crafted in all of world literature.

Two of my all-time favourite books are titled The Inn of Tranquillity; and Candelabra, which are compilations of his prose that could well double as instructional aids for both how to best write in this form, and also, how to live a life of unbridled creative abundance.

Keeping in mind that Galsworthy passed away in 1933, from a brain tumour shortly after being awarded his Nobel Prize, his writings (at their finest) have retained a relevance and immediacy that has never waned, or failed to inspire. As such, he once noted, “The danger in this age is not our remaining ignorant; it is that we should lose the power of thinking for ourselves… I advanced with a light pen, feeling that none, and least of all myself, need expect to be right.”

The $263.8 million Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment has reached a signifcant milestone, with a portion of the historic former Grafton Gaol set to be acquired to support the hospital’s upgrade. The investment by the Minns Labor Government aims to meet the growing healthcare needs of Grafton and surrounding communities while preserving the heritage signifcance of the site.

Site Acquisition and Redevelopment Plans

A Development Application has been approved by the Northern Regional Planning Panel to refurbish two administration blocks within the former minimumsecurity portion of the gaol, located in its north-eastern corner. These blocks will be repurposed into modern administrative, offce, and training facilities. Meanwhile, clinical services will remain on the existing hospital site.

The former Grafton Gaol, which operated between 1893 and 2020, is listed on the state’s Heritage Register (since 1999). The adaptive reuse of part of the site aligns with the conservation management plan developed in 2021, ensuring the preservation of areas of heritage

signifcance while bringing new life to the site.

Key Hospital Redevelopment

Features

Planning and design for the main works are progressing, with the redevelopment set to deliver a three-storey acute services building housing:

• A new Emergency Department

• Emergency Short Stay facilities

• Medical Imaging and MRI

• Expanded inpatient units

Additionally, the Day Surgery and Operating Suite will be expanded, adding two new operating theatres to increase overall surgical capacity.

Construction timelines for the full redevelopment will be fnalized once planning is complete and a builder is appointed. However, refurbishment works at the former gaol site are

expected to begin this year.

Government and Community Perspectives

Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park, emphasized the project’s importance:

“The acquisition of this section of the old Grafton Gaol will provide critical new space to support the redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital. This multi-million dollar redevelopment will improve healthcare capacity and ensure the hospital has the best, most up-to-date models of care for the residents of Grafton and the surrounding communities.”

Minister for Lands and Property, Steve Kamper, highlighted the dual benefts of the project:

“This ensures the Old Grafton Gaol doesn’t remain an unused relic. It enables new uses for this important community asset while

also providing signifcant economic benefts for the Grafton community.”

Minister for Corrections, Anoulack Chanthivong, celebrated the site’s transformation:

“Grafton Gaol is an iconic place with a somewhat dark history, so it is wonderful we are delivering a positive new chapter that will serve the local community for years to come.”

A Positive Future for Grafton Labor Spokesperson for Clarence, Emily Suvaal MLC, welcomed the project:

“This is a fantastic outcome for the Grafton and Clarence communities as it secures the future use of this historic site, which will really beneft local residents.”

For more information on the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment, visit: Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment.

Galsworthy of the highest praise……by Nigel Dawe

ROBERT HEYWARD

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

SYDNEY HOTSHOTS NATIONAL TOUR 2024 COMING TO BROADWATER HOTEL

Look out ladies, the hunks from Sydney Hotshots are back to sizzle and seduce for one night only with a brand-new killer show.

The 2-hour production is a visual feast, choreographed and developed by Australia’s leading professionals.

Our hand-picked selection of dreamy guys will have the ladies up from their chairs, screaming for more, night after night! With a totally interactive production, The Secret Fantasies Tour is the perfect night out with the girls!

A high energy production, our shows boast the perfect

mix of killer dance routines, eyecatching costumes, acrobatics, and jaw dropping athletic male physiques.

Our smorgasbord of sexy guys are selected from 100’s of men nationwide and put though an intensive “Hotshots Bootcamp”, all graduating with an A+ in hip thrusting! Our fellas come from various backgrounds from Tradies, Cops, Farmers and even Fireman to tour Australia and entertain the ladies!

Hosted by seasoned professional Paul Reynolds (original cast member of Manpower Australia and Las Vegas headliner), Reynold’s

showmanship and cheeky banter with our audiences makes for an extra entertaining evening. It’s the most fun a girl can have standing up!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Fri 24th Jan

• Where: Broadwater Hotel

• Price: From $37.63

NUMBER CRUNCH

Place the digits 1 to 9 in the blue squares, so that all 6 equations are correct. Multiplication and/or division are performed rst, in whichever order they appear –followed by addition and/or subtraction, in whichever order they appear.

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 Champion squash player, Mohamed El Shorbagy, represents which country in international tournaments?

(a) Egypt (b) Pakistan (c) Iraq (d) Turkey

2 Which of the following scientists has an element named after him?

(a) Werner Heisenberg (b) John Kendrew (c) Larry Page (d) Ernest Lawrence

3 Chittagong is the secondlargest city of which country?

(a) Bangladesh (b) India (c) Sri Lanka (d) Pakistan

4 Shemar Moore stars as Daniel ‘Hondo’ Harrelson in which TV series? (a) Criminal Minds (b) The Handmaid’s Tale (c) NCIS (d) S.W.A.T.

5 In 2019, Hawthorn Hawks and which other team became the first in AFL history to play while it snowed on them? (a) St Kilda Saints (b) Brisbane Lions (c) Fremantle Dockers (d) GWS Giants

6 Which country shares a land border with Eritrea? (a) Egypt (b) Kenya (c) Djibouti (d) Somalia

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 FURCATE

(a) Thievish (b) Forked (c) Stealthy

2 MORTIFEROUS

(a) Producing musk (b) Relating to form (c) Fatal

3 NICOTIAN

(a) A tobacco smoker

(b) A cast-iron alloy

(c) The third eyelid developed in birds etc

4 ONEROUS

(a) Belonging to dreams

(b) Burdensome

(c) One-to-one

5 SOLILOQUY

(a) Absolute egoism

(b) A talking to oneself

(c) Absence of company

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY BEYOND PARADISE

ABC TV, 7.30pm

Less sunny in both setting and tone than its predecessor, this pensive Death in Paradise spin-o nds DI Humphrey Goodman (Kris Marshall, pictured) and his beloved Martha (Sally Bretton) at one of the lower points on the rollercoaster of life. However, this week’s mystery takes a break from the personal with a delightful detour into the art world. After a signi cant painting disappears in a seemingly impossible heist the entire community of Shipton Abbott is shaken to its core. Martha’s mother Anne (Barbara Flynn) is wracked with guilt, believing the theft is all her fault. But when Goodman and the team discover a centuries-long feud about the artwork’s origins, they’re left with more questions than answers.

FRIDAY, January 17

WEDNESDAY ELSBETH

TEN, 9pm

In a change from the usual gritty detective fare, this quirky comedy drama is not only a colourful cupcake of a crime procedural but strays from the “whodunnit” format, instead telling viewers who the baddie is from the beginning of an episode and then working out how to catch them. It all revolves around Elsbeth Tascioni

ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (6)

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Rulla’s Cooking On Country. (R) 10.30 Take 5. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Newsreader. (Mdl, R) 2.00 The Split: Barcelona. (Final, Ml, R) 3.00 Back Roads. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

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

7.30 Monty Don’s History Of The British Garden: The 18th Century. (R) Monty Don visits Rousham House.

8.30 Murder In Provence. (Final, Mav, R) A love a air seems to be at the heart of a young woman’s death in a nearby town.

10.00 Joanna Lumley’s Great Cities Of The World: Berlin. (Final, PG, R) Joanna Lumley concludes her journey.

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

11.05 Grand Designs: Norwich. (R)

11.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)

12.40 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.15 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.10 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 11.05 Great Canal Journeys. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Great Australian Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 3.05 Destination Flavour China. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! (R) 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Stage 11. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 MOVIE: The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button. (2008, R) Due to a strange ailment, a man who was born aged in his 80s grows younger as time passes. Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett.

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 De Gaulle. (Ma) France plunges into turmoil.

12.00 Kin. (MA15+lv, R)

2.40 Make Me A Dealer. (R)

3.30 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)

4.00 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am Morning Programs. 9.30 BBC News At Six. 10.00 Front Up. 12.15pm France 24 English News. 12.45 Hunters. 1.35 Question Team. 2.30 Scandinavian Star. 3.40 Uncovering Incels. 3.55 BBC News At Ten. 4.25 ABC World News Tonight. 4.50 PBS News. 5.50 Alone. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Love And Sex In Scandinavia. 9.35 Secrets Of Penthouse. 10.30 Homeland. 1.30am Love And Sex In Israel. 2.30 NHK World English News.

6am December Boys. (2007, PG) 8.00 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 10.00 Tracker. (2010, M) 11.55 A Bronx Tale. (1993, M) 2.10pm Petite Maman. (2021, PG, French) 3.35 Murder Party. (2022, PG, French) 5.30 Bright Star. (2009, PG) 7.40 The Two Faces Of January. (2014,

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. (PG) 10.00 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. One Day International. Australia v England. Game 3. 2.00 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. One Day International. Australia v England. Game 3. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 37. Sydney Sixers v Sydney Thunder.

10.30 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the game between the Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder.

11.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. (R) Johanna Griggs and Charlie Albone explore Vancouver’s food and shing delights.

12.30 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Women’s. Stage 1. Highlights.

1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Presented by Greg Grainger.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 5.00 NBC Today.

THURSDAY THE DARKNESS

SBS, 9.30pm

It’s no shock this grim but engrossing Nordic noir series is essential viewing, with acclaimed director Lasse Hallström (The Cider House Rules, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?) behind the camera and his real-life wife, the always-wonderful Lena Olin (Alias, pictured), in the lead role. Set in Iceland and with the backdrop of a refugee crisis taking place in the country, DI Hulda Hermannsdóttir (Olin) and partner Lukas (Jack Bannon) must investigate a kidnapping, with only a vague description from the kidnapped woman’s son to go on. However, it’s not long before they realise this crime is inextricably linked to another recent case they’ve worked on, as a sordid web of intrigue in Reykjavík grows ever deeper.

(5) NBN (8, 80)

6.00 Today. The latest in news, current a airs, sport, politics, entertainment, fashion, health and lifestyle. 10.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Hosted by Tony Jones. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Day 6. 4.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Afternoon 6. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by Roz Kelly and James Bracey. 6am

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 6. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late night 6. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey.

12.00 New Amsterdam. (Mam, R) Iggy helps a family come to terms with their deaf child’s inability to communicate.

1.00 First On Scene. (Maln) Documents moments captured by journalists and the stories behind the headlines from those rst on scene.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) A dog goes missing in the park.

4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Drive TV. (R)

7TWO (62) VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.45pm Beep And Mort. 3.00 Play School. 3.50 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 4.25 Nella The Princess Knight. 5.20 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.50 Robot Wars. 9.50 Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Hop. 6.30 Children’s Programs. Noon Hart Of Dixie. 2.00 Bewitched. 2.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 3.00 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 Tennis. Austn Open. Afternoon 6. 7.00 The Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: DC League Of Super-Pets. (2022, PG) 9.35 MOVIE: Journey To The Centre Of The Earth. (2008, PG) 11.35 The O.C. 12.35am The Nanny. 1.05 Love After Lockup. 2.30 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 3.30 Late Programs. 6am Fishy Business. 7.00 Step Outside. 7.30 Creek To Coast. 8.00 A Football Life. 9.00 America’s Game. 10.00

The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 TBA. 3.00 DVine Living. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. 8.30 Escape To

9GO! (83)

5.00 American Resto. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Surveillance Oz. 8.30 MOVIE: In The Line Of Fire. (1993, M) 11.10 MOVIE: The Empty Man. (2020, MA15+) 2am Late Programs.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Contestants compete in a high-stakes game where they must beat The Banker to win a cash prize.

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

7.30 MOVIE: Cast Away. (2000, Ma, R) A workaholic executive becomes stranded on a deserted tropical island after a plane crash. Tom Hanks, Helen Hunt, Nick Searcy. 10.20 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather.

10.45 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

11.50 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

K D L

G O N

E

E W Today’s target: 20 words average 26 words good 34+ words excellent

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

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Auspac Media

This week, retrograde Mars and the Full Moon highlight your home zone, so the focus is firmly on family matters as you take on more domestic responsibilities or search for a solution to a frustrating long-term problem. Take your time and think things through, as you reflect and reevaluate before taking action. Draw inspiration from birthday great Dolly Parton (who turns 79 on Sunday): “If you don’t like the road you’re walking, start paving another one.”

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

There’s no denying that 2025 will be full of changes and uncertainties, but don’t let the worries and ‘what-ifs’ drain your life of spontaneity and fun. The Sun and Uranus encourage you to take a giant leap of faith into the future, as you think creatively and love compassionately. Inspiration for the week is from civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr (who was born on January 15, 1929): “Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

This week retrograde Mars and the Full Moon stir up your money zone, so it’s time to budget wisely, pay bills promptly and shop prudently. Jupiter (planet of adventure, education, aspirations and generosity) is transiting through your sign until June 9. So make the most of this celestial opportunity that only comes along every 12 years! Wisdom for the week is from birthday great Dolly Parton: “Dream more, learn more, care more and be more.”

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Expect an intense and emotional week, as retrograde Mars and the Full Moon activate your sign. Your capacity to adapt will be put to the test, especially in relationships. A troubled partnership could end, making way for a new sweetheart or best friend. If you are overly defensive in your opinions and bossy in your behaviour, then loved ones and colleagues will stop listening to what you say. Try to get the balance right between being firm and being flexible!

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22) You’ll feel like retreating into your Lion’s den on Monday and Tuesday, when retrograde Mars and the Full Moon stimulate your solitude zone. Meditation, contemplation and relaxation are favoured, as you ponder your future and re-imagine your dreams. Uranus urges you to restructure your diet and exercise program, plus reinvent your daily work routine. If you tick these boxes, then you will improve (and transform) your health and career in the coming year.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Your involvement with a group, class, club or organisation has other people looking to you for a helping hand. Use your networking skills to drum up support, and don’t be afraid to ask others for assistance when you need it. Mars is retrograde and things are moving slowly, so you’ll have to be extra patient. Your motto for the week is from birthday great Martin Luther King “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Mighty Mars is reversing through your career zone until February 24. So relationships with work colleagues, clients and/or customers could be confusing, as your Libran patience and diplomatic skills are tested. Trying to rush matters (and people) won’t help the situation. Smart Librans will strive to be extra tolerant and understanding during this period. You could also feel physically and mentally tired, so slow down, eat well and get plenty of sleep.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

The Full Moon and retrograde Mars stir up your travel zone so if you’re on a business trip or holiday, double check all arrangements and don’t rush. With Pluto (your ruler) transiting through Aquarius until 2044, many Scorpios will undergo a major transformation where you gradually become more authentic and autonomous. It’s time to morph into the real you! Your motto is from birthday great Eartha Kitt: “The price we pay for being ourselves is worth it.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Courtesy of the Sun/Uranus trine, Monday is fabulous for upending your usual routine and going on an exciting adventure or making the most of an unusual opportunity that comes your way. But the Full Moon and retrograde Mars both stir up your ‘money-from-others’ zone, so it’s not a good week to sign an important contract, take out a loan or run up a large credit card debt. And if you’ve lent money to someone, don’t expect to get it back in a hurry!

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19) Despite some retrograde Mars relationship rumbles, this week is all about finding your true path and following your destiny. Inspiration for the moment is from birthday great, entertainer Eartha Kitt: “The river is constantly turning and bending, and you never know where it’s going to go and where you’ll wind up. Following the bend in the river and staying on your own path means that you are on the right track. Don’t let anyone deter you from that.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) With the Full Moon and retrograde Mars stimulating your wellbeing zone, it’s a good time to review your diet and reboot your exercise program. And remember – Pluto (the slow-moving planet of powerful transmutation) is now transiting through your sign until 2044. So you’re set for a long period of regeneration and transformation. Your motto for the week is from birthday great Dolly Parton (who turns 79 on Sunday): “Find out who you are and do it on purpose.”

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Venus is visiting your sign (until February 4) and Lady Luck is calling, so make sure you are ready, willing and able to capitalise on good fortune when it comes along. On Friday the Sun/Neptune link is fabulous for creative projects and spiritual pursuits, But – courtesy of retrograde Mars and the moody Full Moon – your relationship with a child, teenager, lover or friend may feel as if it’s going backwards. The number one quality required is patience.

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

Circus Arts School Holiday Program

Looking for an action-packed holiday adventure for your kids? Circus Arts Byron Bay offers the ultimate indoor holiday program, running Monday to Saturday during every NSW & QLD school break.

We offer non-stop fun with exciting circus activities that include acrobatics, juggling, and a high-fying trapeze for those brave enough to take the leap! Perfect for all ages and skill levels,

Step into a world where rhythm meets renewal, as the enchanting evening of live music unfolds under AKITU – a celebration that transcends mere revelry. This event is not just a party; it’s a spiritual journey, marking the rebirth of nature and humanity’s triumphant emergence from the depths of chaos.

Featuring:

• TIJUANA CARTEL

• XUJA

• SHE - J

our programs provide a chance to develop new skills, build confdence, and most importantly,

have fun.

Option to enjoy the convenience of our on-site cafe and add

a lunchbox + snack – making your day stress-free.

Don’t let your kids miss

out on this unforgettable holiday experience!

Important Details:

• Ages: Kids 5 - 16yrs

• Skill level: Suitable for all levels from absolute beginners to advanced

• What to bring:

o Comfortable, close ftting clothing, with pants or leggings that cover the knees

o A water bottle (free reflls)

o Food/extra snacks, if needed

Tijuana Cartel presents Akitu

• CAREBEAR

The heartbeat of AKITU is a lineup

that promises to be a sonic odyssey, curated to elevate your senses and propel you into the realm of euphoria. Headlining the event

SUZI QUATRO

With sellout tours around the world, there’s no holding a good rock icon down. Currently receiving the best reviews of her entire career, Suzi Q is a timeless force of nature, pure rock royalty and the unrivalled Queen of Rock and Roll.

Suzi will have the pedal to the foor for TWO spectacular two-hour shows in the Showroom in January 2025, showcasing her unbridled energy, powerhouse vocals and talented band of

musicians.

To date, Suzi has sold over 55 million records, and still counting. Her massive hits have kept her fans, new and old, dancing through the decades… 48 Crash, Too Big, Devil Gate Drive, Daytona Demon, The Wild One, She’s in Love With You, Mama’s Boy, If You Can’t Give Me Love, Rock Hard and Stumblin’ In.

See ONE or see BOTH shows!

Just don’t miss your chance to see the ultimate rocker, Suzi

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Fri 17th & 18th Jan

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: $109

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: 9:30am4:30pm daily in the school holidays

• Where: Circus Arts, Byron Bay

• Price: From $95

is the sensational TIJUANA CARTEL, whose fusion of world beats and electronic vibes will transport you to uncharted territories of sound. Their pulsating rhythms and infectious melodies are bound to create an immersive experience, setting the tone for the night’s cosmic celebration. Join us for a night of music that transcends the ordinary.

Tickets are very limited, and on sale now.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Sat 18th Jan @7pm

• Where: The Northern, Byron Bay

• Price: $65

What’s the Joke Show and Disco with Andy Jones

Andy Jones is a bestselling children’s author, entertainer, musician, song writer and comedian. He has been described as the most energetic lovable larrikin in kids’ entertainment performing up to 400 shows a year in schools, clubs, libraries and festivals all over the country.

He draws on his musical background to engage, educate and entertain by presenting what has been described

by hundreds of schools as the highest energy, engaging and enthralling shows for kids today.

Andy’s ‘What’s the Joke Show’ is a mix of music, comedy and literacy with a focus on humour and joke telling. It has been enormously successful clocking up over 1,000 performances in three years.

Come join the fun this January school holidays at Maclean Bowling Club. Free for children 3 years and under. Adults do not require a ticket.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Sat 18th Jan @5pm

• Where: Maclean Bowling Club

• Price: $5

Quatro, live on stage at Twin Towns!

Australia Day Ambassadors Set to Inspire Communities Across NSW

Eighty inspirational Australians, including innovators, educators, musicians, healthcare professionals, elite athletes, and environmental advocates, will spread a message of unity and pride as Australia Day Ambassadors across New South Wales on 26 January 2025.

Handpicked by the Australia Day Council of NSW, this year’s Ambassadors have been selected for their exceptional contributions to society. The diverse group includes charity founders supporting those in crisis, a sustainable living architect, and an awardwinning children’s author.

Inspiring Communities Across NSW

It’s

JEFF GIBBS

Byron Shire Council is gearing up to tackle one of the region’s most persistent environmental threats: cane toads. Residents and visitors alike are being encouraged to roll up their sleeves and join the Byron Shire Cane Toad Challenge from 18 January to 21 January 2025.

Get Involved: HandsOn Training

To prepare participants, Byron Shire Council is hosting a hands-on community information session on 16 January 2025, at Waterlily Park in Ocean Shores from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. The session will provide practical knowledge on identifying, catching, and humanely disposing of cane toads.

Claudia Caliari, Council’s Biodiversity Projects Offcer, emphasized the importance of

The Ambassadors will visit towns and cities throughout NSW, from Bega Valley to Blacktown, Griffth to Glen Innes, engaging in events such as citizenship ceremonies, cultural performances, community festivals, and charity initiatives.

NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham praised the program:

“These NSW Australia Day Ambassadors represent the heart and soul of our state and showcase the community spirit that we celebrate in NSW. I look forward to seeing this year’s group of accomplished Australians inspire communities and unite us as we come together as a nation to respect and refect.”

Now in its 34th year, the NSW Australia Day Ambassador

Program is the largest in Australia, underscoring the importance of community connection on this national day.

A Time to Refect and Celebrate

Through speeches and storytelling, the Ambassadors will share their personal experiences of what being Australian means to them. Corey Payne, 2013 NSW Young Australian of the Year and former NRL player, highlighted the signifcance of the role: “Being an Australia Day Ambassador is an opportunity to connect with people across NSW and celebrate the resilience, kindness, and inclusiveness that make our country so special. It’s inspiring to witness the pride and passion that NSW communities bring as they refect on what makes our country unique.”

Honouring Diversity and History

Yvonne Weldon, Chair of the Australia Day Council of NSW, emphasized the importance of inclusion and recognition: “Australia Day is a time for inclusion and recognition. It is also an opportunity to honour our shared history, continuing the signifcant contributions and custodianship of First Nations people, while embracing our diversity

and strengthening bonds that unite us as a community.”

Sydney’s Australia Day Program

In Sydney, Australia Day festivities will culminate with Australia Day Live, featuring performances by top Australian artists. The full program will be announced on 14 January 2025.

The NSW Government’s Destination NSW, the lead agency for tourism and major events, is

delivering the Australia Day in Sydney program, enhancing the experience with cultural showcases and entertainment. For a full list of the 2025 NSW Australia Day Ambassadors and their destinations, visit: Australia Day Ambassadors. This Australia Day, join in refecting on our shared history, respecting the contributions of all Australians, and celebrating the diversity and unity that defne our nation.

On! Join Byron Shire’s Cane Toad Bust

community involvement.

“We want people of all ages to join in,” Ms. Caliari said. “This session is informal, family-friendly, and designed to give everyone the tools they need to help.”

Attendees will also get to see a cane toad tadpole trap in action and learn more about effective strategies for controlling this invasive

species.

Partnering for Success

Byron Shire Council is teaming up with Watergum, an environmental organization renowned for its cane toad education programs and toad-busting initiatives in Queensland and northern NSW.

“All people need to do is register for

the challenge on our website, collect as many cane toads as they can between 18 and 21 January, and report their numbers,” Ms. Caliari explained.

To ensure humane treatment of the captured toads, Council and Watergum are setting up drop-off points where participants can deliver live toads for ethical euthanasia.

A National Effort

The Byron Shire Cane Toad Challenge is part of a nationwide campaign aiming to remove more than 50,000 cane toads from Australian ecosystems.

“You only have to step outside in the evening to see how widespread the problem is in our beautiful shire,” Ms. Caliari said. “This challenge is a fantastic

opportunity for people to take action and make a meaningful difference to our environment.”

Why It Matters

Cane toads pose a signifcant threat to Australia’s native wildlife. As highly invasive predators, they have devastating impacts on local ecosystems, poisoning native animals and competing with them for food and habitat.

Community-driven initiatives like this one are crucial in controlling their numbers and protecting biodiversity. Join the Challenge For details on the community information session and how to register for the Cane Toad Challenge, visit Byron Shire Council’s website.

This January, make a positive impact—join the fght against cane toads and help preserve the natural beauty of Byron Shire.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Brad Farmer

A Premium Soundbar To Elevate Your Sound At Home

LIAM JENNINGS

The Sonos Arc Ultra is Sonos’ latest fagship soundbar, the successor to the original Arc. It offers signifcant enhancements in audio performance and features, positioning it as a top contender in the premium soundbar market.

Design and Build

Maintaining Sonos’ minimalist aesthetic, the Arc Ultra features a sleek, perforated grille design available in black or white. It measures approximately 75 mm in height, 1178 mm in width, and 111 mm in depth, making it slightly longer and less tall than its predecessor. This design allows it to ft seamlessly under most TVs without obstructing the screen.

Audio Performance

The Arc Ultra delivers a 9.1.4-channel audio experience, utilizing 14 drivers powered by Class D amplifcation. This confguration includes seven tweeters and six midrange drivers, complemented by Sonos’ innovative “Sound Motion” woofer technology. This technology provides deeper bass and clearer sound, effectively doubling the bass output compared to the original Arc.

The soundbar supports Dolby Atmos, creating an immersive audio environment with precise sound placement and spatial effects. However, it does not support DTS:X formats.

Connectivity and Features

The Arc Ultra offers multiple connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and an Ethernet port. It features a single HDMI eARC port for TV connection, which may be a consideration for users with multiple HDMI devices, as it lacks HDMI passthrough capabilities. Control options include touch controls, voice commands via Amazon Alexa or Sonos Voice Control, and integration with the Sonos app. The soundbar also supports Apple AirPlay 2. Sonos’ Trueplay tuning technology is available for room calibration, now accessible to both iOS and Android users.

Pricing

The Sonos Arc Ultra is priced at $1,799. This positions it at a higher price point than the original Arc, refecting its advanced features and performance enhancements.

Considerations

While the Arc Ultra excels in delivering immersive audio, it lacks support for DTS:X formats and includes only a single HDMI port without passthrough functionality. These factors may infuence its suitability depending on individual home theatre setups.

Conclusion

Overall, the Sonos Arc Ultra represents a signifcant advancement in soundbar technology, offering enhanced audio performance and modern features that cater to both movie enthusiasts and music lovers.

In a world where internet connectivity is increasingly vital for communication, education, and business, Starlink, a satellite internet constellation operated by SpaceX, is transforming how people access the web, especially in remote and underserved regions. Founded by tech visionary Elon Musk, Starlink’s mission is to provide high-speed, lowlatency internet globally through a network of small satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO). Unlike traditional satellite internet providers that use a few geostationary satellites positioned thousands of kilometres from Earth, Starlink deploys thousands of satellites at much lower altitudes, around 550 kilometres above the surface. This key difference enables Starlink to offer faster speeds and signifcantly lower latency, making it a game-changer for areas with limited or no broadband infrastructure.

Expanding Product Line

Since its launch, Starlink has expanded its offerings to cater to various types of users, from individual households to large businesses and even travellers on the move. Each product is designed to meet specifc connectivity needs, ensuring reliable internet access in a variety of settings.

1. Starlink Standard (Residential Service) The most popular product in the Starlink lineup is the residential internet service, which is designed for households in rural and remote locations. The service

offers download speeds of up to 250 Mbps and latency as low as 20 to 40 milliseconds. Users receive a Starlink Kit, which includes a self-aligning dish antenna, a Wi-Fi router, and all necessary mounting hardware. The setup process is straightforward, allowing users to install the system themselves.

2. Starlink for RVs For those who are constantly on the move, Starlink offers a portable internet solution. Starlink for RVs provides travellers with reliable connectivity, even in remote camping locations or on road trips. The service operates on a “best effort” basis, meaning speeds may vary in congested areas, but it remains a valuable tool for maintaining internet access in areas without cellular coverage.

3. Starlink Maritime Starlink has also entered the maritime industry, providing high-speed internet to ships, yachts, and offshore platforms. The maritime package includes robust hardware designed to withstand harsh ocean conditions.

With download speeds of up to 220 Mbps in coastal waters, Starlink Maritime ensures that crews and passengers can stay connected while at sea.

4. Starlink Business For enterprises requiring higher performance, Starlink Business offers enhanced speeds and reliability. This service provides download speeds of up to 350 Mbps and comes with a more powerful antenna capable of handling higher data demands. Businesses in remote locations, such as mining sites

or remote offces, can beneft greatly from this solution.

5. Starlink Aviation

In a bid to bring high-speed internet to the skies, Starlink has developed a service tailored for aviation. With download speeds reaching 350 Mbps and latency as low as 20 milliseconds, Starlink Aviation allows passengers to stream videos, use dataintensive applications, and stay connected during fights. The service is compatible with a variety of aircraft and promises a seamless infight experience.

Key Features Driving Adoption

Starlink’s rapid adoption can be attributed to several standout features:

• Global Coverage: Starlink provides internet access in areas where traditional broadband providers are unavailable, such as remote rural communities, mountainous regions, and even isolated islands.

• Low Latency: Traditional satellite internet services often suffer from high latency due to the long distance signals must travel to reach geostationary satellites. By using low Earth orbit satellites, Starlink signifcantly reduces this distance, resulting in lower latency and improved performance for online activities like video conferencing and gaming.

• Easy Installation: The Starlink Kit is designed for simplicity. Users can set up the dish antenna themselves, and the system automatically aligns with satellites for optimal connectivity.

Pricing and Availability

Starlink’s pricing varies depending on the service tier and region. The standard residential service costs around $139 per month, with an upfront equipment fee of approximately $549. Meanwhile, specialised services such as Starlink Maritime and Starlink Aviation have premium pricing due to their unique hardware and operational environments.

In addition, Starlink offers a global roaming service called Starlink Roam, which allows users to connect to the internet worldwide. This is particularly useful for digital nomads and frequent travellers who need reliable connectivity across different countries.

Future Plans and Expansion

Looking ahead, SpaceX plans to expand the Starlink constellation signifcantly. With regulatory approval to launch up to 42,000 satellites, the company aims to enhance network capacity and improve global coverage. SpaceX is also equipping its satellites with laser links, which enable direct communication between satellites without relying on ground stations. This technology will further reduce latency and increase speeds, particularly in remote regions far from existing infrastructure.

Starlink has already demonstrated its value in disaster relief scenarios, providing internet access to areas affected by natural disasters and humanitarian crises. By offering a reliable, rapidly deployable connectivity solution, Starlink is proving to be a crucial tool in emergency response efforts.

LIAM JENNINGS

Revolutionises Internet Access with Satellite Connectivity

South Korea’s KGM SsangYong is set to make waves in Australia with the anticipated launch of its frst electric ‘lifestyle’ ute, likely to debut after the UK release in 2025. This innovative ute, based on the Torres EVX SUV, is expected to offer a practical, urbanfriendly alternative to traditional ladder-frame utes like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux.

KGM SsangYong

Electric Ute Highlights:

• Inspired by the O100 Concept: Unveiled in April 2023, the electric dual-cab ute could be named Torres EVT (shown above), as suggested by badging on the concept model.

• Urban-Focused

Design: The ute will cater to drivers seeking a versatile, medium-sized vehicle ideal for city use.

• All-Electric

Platform: Unlike the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Torres EVT will be electric-only, leveraging the Torres EVX SUV’s architecture.

• BYD-Sourced

Battery: Equipped with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, the ute promises a 462km driving range (WLTP).

• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) Capability: Owners can power tools or appliances directly from the vehicle, adding practicality for work or leisure.

Torres EVX SUV: On Track for 2025

The Torres EVX SUV, upon which the ute is

Sony and Honda’s Electric Car Unveiled

Sony and Honda have revealed the nearproduction version of their frst electric car under the jointventure brand Afeela, showcasing a luxury sedan aimed at the premium market. The vehicle, unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, is set to debut in the US in mid-2026, with plans to expand to Japan later that year. Australian availability remains uncertain.

A Tech-Powered Luxury Sedan

The Afeela 1 sedan combines Honda’s car

manufacturing expertise with Sony’s cutting-edge technology. Measuring 4915mm long, 1900mm wide, and 1461mm tall, it closely rivals the Tesla Model S in size and is larger than the Model 3. Equipped with dual motors producing a combined 360kW, the car boasts 483km of estimated driving range from a 91kWh battery pack. Charging supports 150kW DC fast charging and 11kW AC, compatible with Tesla

based, will launch in Australia in the frst half of 2025. Featuring:

• A 73.4kWh battery with a front-mounted 152kW/339Nm motor

• A focus on effciency and versatility for midsize SUV buyers

• Potential dualmotor all-wheel-drive confgurations under consideration 2025 Actyon SUV: A Familiar Name Returns KGM SsangYong is also reviving the Actyon (pictured right) nameplate, with the new coupe-styled SUV slated for Australian showrooms in early 2025. Highlights include:

• 1.5-litre turbocharged engine (120kW/280Nm) paired with a six-speed automatic

• Front- or all-wheel drive options

Superchargers in North America.

The Signature variant, priced at $US102,900 ($AU165,000), offers features like 21inch alloy wheels, rear

• A sleek, modern design derived from the petrol-powered Torres Market Context: While the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz remain unavailable in Australia due to lefthand-drive production, the Torres EVT and EVX could fll the void in the growing ‘lifestyle ute’ segment. This niche caters to drivers prioritizing urban utility over heavy-duty off-road capabilities, a trend refected in the popularity of mid-size SUVs in Australia, which represent nearly 25% of the total market.

The Future of KGM SsangYong in Australia: Rebranded as KGM SsangYong in Australia in October 2024, the company continues to

TikTok, and

KGM SsangYong Electric Ute and 2025

Actyon SUV

Confrmed for Australia

SsangYong name while introducing innovative models.

While other markets have phased out the SsangYong branding, it remains in Australia to maintain brand recognition. With a combination of

vehicles like the Torres EVT and familiar nameplates like the Actyon, KGM SsangYong is poised to strengthen its foothold in the Australian market, appealing to both techsavvy and traditional buyers alike.

entertainment screens, a bespoke sound system, and an array of tech enhancements. An entrylevel Origin model, launching in 2027, starts at $US89,900 ($AU141,000).

High-Tech Interior

Inside, dual screens span the dashboard for driving and entertainment, complemented by a voice assistant and graphics powered by Unreal Engine, widely used in video games. Infotainment includes apps like Spotify,

Zoom, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility remain unconfrmed. The interior prioritizes sustainability, using recycled and plantderived materials for 70% of surfaces. It offers conveniences like wireless charging, USB-C and HDMI ports, and household power outlets. A ‘media bar’ on the exterior shares information with other road users.

Performance and

Safety

Powered by dual 180kW motors for all-wheel drive, the car features air suspension linked to a 3D Motion Management System, integrating motor, brake, and suspension controls for optimal comfort and handling.

Safety tech includes 800 TOPS of computing power managing 18 cameras, nine radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and lidar for adaptive cruise control and lanecentering assist.

Market Position and Competition

Priced higher than competitors like the Tesla Model S Plaid ($US94,990) and BMW i5 M60

($US84,100), the Afeela 1 targets luxury buyers seeking advanced tech and premium design. Pre-orders are now open for California residents, with deliveries expected to begin in mid-2026. While its pricing and market position place it among elite electric vehicles, the Afeela 1 showcases a blend of Japanese innovation and engineering, offering a glimpse into the future of high-tech mobility.

JEFF GIBBS

JEFF GIBBS

‘Slow Grind’ Predicted for Australia’s 2025 Economy Amid Complex Challenges

dependent on improved consumer confdence and falling interest rates.

The Australian economy faces a challenging 2025 as interest rates, infation, unemployment, China’s economic slowdown, and the return of Donald Trump to the US presidency combine to shape an uncertain year. Economists anticipate a slow recovery, with modest growth and continued economic divergence among households.

2024: A Year of Divergence Sets the Stage

Leading economists described 2024 as a “winner-takes-all” year.

Renters and mortgage holders were hit hard by soaring interest rates and infation, while asset-rich households — particularly older Australians with paid-off homes and booming share portfolios — benefted from economic conditions. This divergence left many households struggling, while others prospered.

2025: Recovery

Expected, But Gradually

Challenger chief

economist Jonathan Kearns forecasts slow GDP growth in 2025 as the effects of infation ease. While the economy is expected to regain momentum, the process will be gradual,

IAN ROGERS

Australia’s economy is set for a challenging 2025, as the interplay of high interest rates, infation, rising unemployment, China’s economic slowdown, and global uncertainty under Donald Trump’s second US presidency shapes a complex year. Leading economists predict a slow recovery, with growth remaining below trend.

Recovery Will Be Gradual

Challenger chief economist Jonathan Kearns forecasts that

“GDP growth will slowly pick up as infation dissipates, and consumers will have more confdence to spend once we see some rate cuts,” Kearns said.

However, he emphasized that growth in 2025 will remain below trend, refecting lingering economic challenges.

Interest Rates: Cuts Are Coming, But They’ll Be Modest

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is expected to start reducing interest rates in mid-2025, with May being a likely starting point. Independent economist Nicki Hutley, however, advocates for earlier cuts, starting in February, though she acknowledges the RBA may wait longer.

“I think we’ll see two or three cuts, but borrowers shouldn’t expect substantial relief,” Hutley cautioned.

AMP deputy chief economist Diana Mousina notes that the RBA will require strong evidence that infation is under control before implementing rate cuts.

Infation: Easing into Target Range

Economists expect infation to fall within the RBA’s 2–3% target band in 2025, driven by

slowing price growth and reduced consumer demand. The latest infation data shows annual headline infation at 2.8%, the lowest since 2021, but the RBA’s preferred measure, trimmed mean infation, remains higher at 3.5%.

“We’ll see underlying infation come back into the band,” Hutley predicts. UBS’s George Tharenou agrees, expecting both headline and trimmed-mean infation to moderate further. Extended federal energy bill subsidies could also help ease cost pressures.

Unemployment: Rising, But Manageable

The strong labor market of 2024 is expected to soften in 2025, with unemployment rising to 4.3%, according to

growth and weaker business conditions will likely curtail hiring.

“Public sector job growth can’t continue indefnitely, which will ease labor market pressure,” Hutley said. Wage growth, which peaked in 2024, is also expected to decline.

Tharenou predicts unemployment will rise but stop short of becoming a major issue, as businesses adapt to modest proftability growth.

China’s Struggles

Weigh on Australia Australia’s reliance on China, its largest trading partner, remains a signifcant risk. China’s economy has been plagued by sluggish growth, a struggling

property sector, and weak consumer demand.

While Mousina predicts more stimulus from Beijing, Hutley remains skeptical, expecting limited improvement in Chinese demand for Australian commodities.

Trump’s Return: Uncertainty Looms

Donald Trump’s second term as US president brings potential volatility, with promises of steep tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico.

While Australia’s direct trade with the US is minimal, the impact on China could ripple into Australia’s economy.

“Trump’s policies might create volatility, but his use of the share market as a performance barometer may temper his actions,” Mousina suggested.

‘Slow Grind’ Ahead for Australia’s Economy in 2025

gross domestic product (GDP) will pick up slowly as infationary pressures ease, boosting consumer confdence and spending. “GDP growth will slowly improve as infation dissipates and interest rate cuts take effect,” Kearns said, though he cautioned against expecting a quick turnaround.

Interest Rates to Fall, But Modestly Economists anticipate the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will begin cutting rates by mid-2025, most likely in May, as infation moves closer to the RBA’s target range of 2–3%

annually. Independent economist Nicki Hutley supports earlier rate cuts to provide relief for stretched borrowers but warns of limited reductions.

“We might see two or three rate cuts, but borrowers shouldn’t expect substantial relief,” Hutley said.

Infation Easing into Control

Infation, which has dominated economic discourse, is expected to ease further. The latest data shows annual infation at 2.8%, its lowest level since mid2021, but underlying infation remains higher

at 3.5%, above the RBA’s target. UBS chief economist George Tharenou predicts both headline and core infation will moderate in 2025, supported by government energy subsidies.

Labor Market to Soften After surprising strength in 2024, unemployment is expected to rise, reaching 4.3%, according to the RBA. Slower economic growth and reduced public sector hiring will likely ease labor market pressures, while wage growth is expected to decline from its peak.

China’s Slump Hits

Australia

China’s faltering economy remains a signifcant risk for Australia, particularly for key exports like iron ore and coal. While AMP’s Diana Mousina expects Chinese stimulus measures to support moderate growth, Hutley is less optimistic, warning of ongoing weakness in demand.

Global Volatility Looms

The return of Donald Trump as US president adds uncertainty, with proposed tariffs on China potentially impacting Australia indirectly.

Economists remain cautious but suggest

While 2025 is not expected to deliver a dramatic turnaround, some improvements are anticipated. Tax cuts could provide relief to households, and easing infation may allow for modest real wage growth. However, economists warn of continued divergence between struggling and thriving households.

“We’re waiting to see whether productivity growth can pick up,” Kearns said, adding that Australia’s economic recovery will be a slow grind.

Overall, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of cautious optimism, with challenges ahead but opportunities for gradual improvement.

Trump’s focus on market performance could temper his more extreme policies.

A Year of Cautious Optimism Economists agree 2025 will bring modest improvements, with tax cuts, easing infation, and real wage growth offering some relief. However, the slow pace of recovery means economic divergence between households is likely to persist.

“2025 won’t be transformative,” Kearns said. “But with infation easing and rates falling, we’ll see gradual improvement.”

RBA forecasts. Slower economic

Cautious Optimism for 2025

IAN ROGERS

Crisis

China’s ongoing property collapse, led by giants like Evergrande, has caused staggering economic losses, with implications that should resonate loudly in Australia. As one of our largest trading partners, China’s struggles are a stark warning about the fragility of real estate markets and the broader economy.

The Scale of China’s

The fallout from China’s property downturn is immense. A Barclays Bank report estimates the total wealth destruction at $US18 trillion ($AU29 trillion), or approximately $US60,000 per Chinese household.

This loss surpasses the US property crash of 2008 that triggered the global fnancial crisis. With 80 million vacant homes — seven times the total number of

Australian dwellings — and declining property prices, the situation remains grim.

Harvard economist Kenneth Rogoff and IMF co-author Yuanchen Yang highlight that China’s overbuilding spree has created a massive oversupply of homes and infrastructure.

Construction accounted for 31% of China’s GDP in 2021, a precarious level seen before the property collapses in Spain and Ireland.

With a declining working-age population and soaring home price-to-income ratios in cities like Beijing and Shanghai, China’s real estate market faces a bleak outlook. The ripple effects include a weakened construction sector, falling economic output, and reduced demand for raw materials, including Australian iron ore and coal.

Implications for Australia

China’s Property Crash

A Cautionary Tale for Australia’s Housing Market

China’s property woes directly impact Australia’s economy. Slumping iron ore prices, now below $US100 per tonne, are reducing national income and pushing the federal budget back into defcit. The Australian dollar has also dropped below 62 US cents, a level not seen since the early 2000s.

Economist Chris Richardson warns Australians to pay closer attention to China’s struggles. “China’s demographic shift is remarkable — it’s ageing fast, with birth rates plummeting due to unaffordable housing,” he notes, citing homeprice-to-income ratios in Beijing and Shanghai that far exceed those of London or New York. Parallels with Australia’s Market

While Australia’s property market differs in key respects, the similarities are striking.

Like China, Australia has seen skyrocketing house prices, unaffordable deposits, and soaring household debt. Housing costs have contributed to declining birth rates, with prospective buyers increasingly reliant on family wealth to enter the market.

Unlike China, Australia faces a housing

undersupply, driven by strong population growth through migration. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic showed, disruptions to migration can quickly shift the supply-demand balance.

A Potential Domino Effect

China’s property crash poses a broader risk to Australia. By reducing national income, economic growth, and federal revenue, it could create conditions ripe for a housing downturn here. With high household debt and limited government debt, Australia’s ability to respond to a housing crash may be constrained if external shocks arise. Lessons to Learn China’s real estate collapse is a warning: unchecked property markets, excessive debt, and demographic shifts can destabilize economies. For Australia, maintaining a balanced housing market and managing external dependencies are critical to avoiding a similar fate. While rising prices have defned Australia’s crisis, the conditions for a potential crash are present — and China’s experience underscores how quickly fortunes can change.

IAN ROGERS

Does Watching TV Increase Dementia Risk?

New research from the University of South Australia (UniSA) sheds light on the relationship between sedentary activities and cognitive health, revealing that the type of sedentary behavior plays a signifcant role in maintaining brain function.

The study, which assessed the 24-hour activity patterns of 397 older adults aged 60 and above, underscores that not all sitting activities are equal when it comes to protecting cognitive abilities.

Which Activities Beneft Brain Health?

The fndings reveal that sedentary activities involving mental stimulation or social engagement — such as reading, crafting, listening to music, praying, playing a musical instrument, or chatting with others — are benefcial for memory and thinking skills.

ROBERT HEYWARD

A groundbreaking study from UNSW reveals that social factors play a crucial role in determining dementia risk, highlighting the need to look beyond genetics and lifestyle when addressing cognitive health.

According to Dementia Australia, over 421,000 Australians are currently living with dementia, a fgure projected to more than double to 812,500 by 2054. As dementia is set to become the nation’s leading cause of death, the study underscores the importance of considering social determinants as part of comprehensive prevention strategies.

The Role of Social Factors in Dementia Risk

Published in The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, the UNSW study identifes key social determinants — including marital status, living

In contrast, passive behaviors like watching television or playing video games were found to have a detrimental effect on cognitive health.

According to researchers, there appears to be a hierarchy in how different sedentary activities impact the brain. Some activities support cognitive function, while others may increase the risk of decline. This insight is crucial, especially since approximately 45% of dementia cases are potentially preventable through modifable lifestyle factors.

Why Context Matters

Dr. Maddison Mellow, a UniSA researcher, emphasized the importance of understanding the context of sedentary behaviors.

“We discovered that the context of an activity signifcantly infuences how it relates to cognitive function. Activities that encourage mental stimulation or

social interaction, such as reading or conversing with friends, are far more benefcial than passive activities like TV watching or gaming.”

While physical activity remains a top recommendation for reducing dementia risk, Dr. Mellow highlighted that even swapping one sedentary activity for a more engaging one could improve brain health.

“Our fndings suggest a need for a more nuanced approach. For brain health, the message isn’t just about ‘moving more and sitting less’ — it’s about choosing activities that engage the mind and

foster connection.” How to Support Cognitive Health

Taking care of your brain doesn’t require drastic lifestyle changes. Small, intentional adjustments can have lasting benefts: Prioritize enjoyable physical activities: Regular movement that gets the heart rate up is highly protective for both brain and physical health.

Make time swaps: Replace some passive activities with mentally or socially stimulating ones. For instance, swap an hour of TV for reading, crafting, or talking with a friend.

Incorporate movement breaks: Even during a movie marathon or a gaming session, break up prolonged sitting with fve-minute stretches or short bursts of physical activity.

“Every small change counts,” Dr. Mellow advised. “Even minor shifts, like choosing a book over bingewatching, can build healthier habits over time.”

Building a Cognitive Health Routine

With dementia risks largely infuenced by lifestyle choices, integrating stimulating sedentary activities

Dementia Risk: It’s More Than Genetics

arrangements, income, and education — as critical infuences on dementia risk.

“We’ve long known that lifestyle factors like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking reduce dementia risk. But our fndings reveal that social factors are just as important,” said Associate Professor Katja Hanewald of UNSW Business School.

The Poly Social Risk Score: Measuring Social Risk

To better understand the impact of social factors, the research team developed a ‘poly social risk score’, which aggregates 19 social determinants of health across fve domains:

• Economic stability

• Education

• Healthcare access

• Neighborhood environment

• Social context

“The score ranges from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating greater social risk,” explained

Shu Chen, the lead researcher and a UNSW Business School Scientia PhD graduate.

This innovative tool could help businesses and healthcare providers identify individuals or groups at higher risk of dementia, enabling tailored interventions that address specifc social challenges.

Key Social Determinants of Dementia Risk

The study, which analyzed long-term data from older adults, highlights the profound impact of social factors on cognitive health: Marital Status

Being married or in a partnership offers emotional and social support that can reduce stress and promote mental wellbeing.

“This support helps lower dementia risk by reducing stress and fostering mental health,” said Scientia Professor Henry Brodaty, from UNSW’s Centre for

Healthy Brain Ageing. Living Arrangements

Older adults living alone or experiencing social isolation often lack the interactions essential for cognitive health, increasing their risk of dementia.

ncome

Higher household income is linked to better access to healthcare, healthier living conditions, and lower levels of chronic stress, all of which reduce dementia risk.

Education

Greater levels of education build cognitive reserve, enhancing the brain’s ability to resist damage and delay dementia symptoms.

Implications for Businesses and Society

The fndings carry signifcant implications for businesses, especially those in healthcare, wellness, and employee wellbeing sectors.

“Reducing dementia risk benefts not just individuals but also businesses,” said

Hanewald. “It leads to lower healthcare costs, reduced absenteeism, and higher workforce productivity.”

To address these social determinants, companies are encouraged to:

Foster social interaction through team-building activities, social clubs, and community service projects.

Integrate social support into wellness programs alongside physical health initiatives.

Develop tailored services, like affordable healthcare packages or retirement plans, to enhance economic stability for aging populations.

“By improving social factors in workplaces, businesses can help aging populations while also enhancing employee wellbeing and economic outcomes,” Hanewald added.

For society as a whole, these interventions could alleviate pressure on healthcare systems,

and regular physical movement into daily life can offer powerful protection against cognitive decline. While it’s clear that physical activity remains the gold standard for brain health, this research highlights a key takeaway: not all sitting is bad, but the type of sedentary activity matters.

By making thoughtful choices in how we spend our time, we can nurture both mind and body, reducing the risk of dementia and fostering long-term well-being.

reduce the need for long-term care, and enhance the quality of life for older adults.

Social Connections and Daily Choices: A Brain’s Best Defense

While genetics and environment play a role, the study emphasizes the power of daily habits and social connections in maintaining brain health.

“Our research uncovers a powerful insight: your social connections and daily habits could be your brain’s best defence against dementia,” said Professor Brodaty.

Simple steps, like staying socially active and nurturing meaningful relationships, can signifcantly lower dementia risk, even in challenging circumstances.

By focusing on both lifestyle and social determinants, individuals, businesses, and society can build a more supportive and proactive approach to cognitive health.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Stock Photo

The Psychology of Wanderlust: Why We Crave Travel

For centuries, humans have been driven by a desire to explore beyond the horizon, to set foot on foreign soil, and to immerse themselves in cultures different from their own. This deep-seated urge to travel, often described as wanderlust, transcends cultural boundaries and time periods. But what is it about travel that calls to us so persistently? Is it simply the allure of novelty, or is there something more profound at play in our psychology?

The Evolutionary Roots of Wanderlust

To understand wanderlust, we must frst look at our evolutionary history. Human beings are inherently nomadic by nature. Our ancestors were hunter-gatherers who moved frequently in search of food, shelter, and better living conditions. This constant movement was not just a matter of survival; it shaped the way our brains developed. Anthropologists argue

that the ability to adapt to new environments and situations provided a crucial evolutionary advantage.

Curiosity, a key driver of travel, was essential for early human survival. Exploring new territories meant access to new resources, such as food and water. Over time, this need to explore became hardwired into our DNA. Though modern humans no longer need to roam to survive, the ancient pull of wanderlust remains embedded in our psyche.

The Allure of Novelty Psychologists often point to our brain’s love of novelty as a major reason why we crave travel. The human brain is wired to seek out new experiences, as novelty stimulates the release of dopamine, the “feelgood” neurotransmitter. This explains why so many people feel a rush of excitement when they step off a plane in a foreign country or set out on a new adventure.

According to Dr. Tamara McClintock Greenberg, a clinical psychologist, novelty

can help break the monotony of everyday life and improve mental well-being. Experiencing new sights, sounds, and cultures activates the brain in unique ways, promoting creativity, learning, and personal growth. Traveling introduces us to situations that challenge our usual way of thinking, forcing us to adapt and expand our mental frameworks.

Travel as a Form of Identity Exploration

Another psychological factor underlying wanderlust is the role that travel plays in shaping and reinforcing our identity. Many people view travel as a way to “fnd themselves” or gain a deeper understanding of who they are. This isn’t just a romanticized notion—it has a basis in psychology.

When we travel, we are often taken out of our comfort zones and placed in unfamiliar contexts. This allows us to see ourselves in a new light, away from the roles and expectations of our everyday lives. For some, this can be a transformative experience. According to research in identity theory, travel offers a unique opportunity for individuals to experiment with different aspects of their identity and develop a stronger sense of self.

Moreover, the stories we collect while traveling become a part of our personal narrative. These experiences shape how we see ourselves and how we present ourselves to others. In essence, travel allows us to create a richer, more

complex personal story. Escaping Routine and Finding Freedom

Routine can be comforting, but it can also become stifing over time. Many people turn to travel as a way to escape the predictability of their daily lives.

Traveling provides a sense of freedom and spontaneity that is often missing in structured, day-to-day routines.

This desire to break free from routine is tied to a psychological concept known as “selfdetermination theory.”

According to this theory, humans have three basic psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Travel fulflls the need for autonomy by allowing individuals to make their own choices, explore on their own terms, and experience a sense of control over their lives. Cultural Connection and Empathy

Beyond personal fulfllment, travel also satisfes our need for connection. Humans are inherently social creatures, and travel offers an opportunity to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Engaging with new cultures can foster empathy, understanding, and a sense of shared humanity.

Studies have shown that people who travel frequently tend to be more open-minded and tolerant. Exposure to different ways of life broadens our perspective and helps us appreciate the diversity of the world. This can lead to a more inclusive mindset and a greater appreciation for what

unites us as human beings.

Travel as a Mental Health Booster

Numerous studies have highlighted the mental health benefts of travel. Taking a break from work and daily responsibilities can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.

The anticipation of an upcoming trip can also boost happiness levels, as planning and looking forward to a vacation activate the brain’s reward system.

Furthermore, travel can serve as a form of mindfulness.

When we’re in a new environment, we tend to be more present, paying closer attention to our surroundings. This heightened awareness can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of peace.

The Endless Call of the Horizon Wanderlust isn’t just about wanting to see new places; it’s deeply tied to our evolutionary past, our psychological need for novelty, and our desire for personal growth. Whether it’s the thrill of stepping into the unknown, the joy of escaping routine, or the opportunity to connect with the world in new ways, travel offers something profoundly enriching.

In the end, wanderlust is more than a craving for adventure—it’s a fundamental part of what it means to be human. As long as there are horizons to explore and stories to discover, the desire to travel will continue to shape our lives in meaningful ways.

LIAM JENNINGS

ìIf

you donít know how to do itîÖyouíre in trouble. Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Rufus

Thomas or the more widely known Mick Jagger, clearly never had dogs. There is no such thing as ëJUSTí walkiní the dog.

You think walkiní the dog is easy? Ha, you clearly donít have a dog either.

Itís not like the old days when you could just let Rover out on his own to get into the garbage, poop everywhere, chase cars and kids on bikes and kill the local cats. Ah, those were

Daosa Piccadilly Valley

Blanc de Blancs 2020, $90. This doesn’t quite scream best bubbles of the year as did last year’s Max Crus Trophy-winning version, but it does scream drink me and try not to worry having to buy another bottle when others discover this. Why buy NV French stuff when you can have this? 9.7/10.

the days my friend, but no longer. You forget one thing and it can ruin your day, or someone elseís, and then thereís the fnes. All pooches need two walks a day, more if they are working breeds kept in a two-bedroom apartment on the third foor - what were the owners thinking? ñ one in the morning and one at the crazy, witching hour for all animals, 4pm-6pm. But you canít just walk out the door, you have to be prepared.

Daosa Piccadilly Valley

Natural RÈserve (7th Release) $59. From the great grapes of Champagne from 2022 and a splash of natural reserve wines, this should be the expensive one, given all the work, but instead it’s just the best value. Full of elegance and grown-up sparkling characters. 9.5/10.

Max Crus is a Clarence Valley-based wine writer and Grape Expectations is now in its 28th year of publication. Find out more about Max or sign up for his weekly reviews and musings by visiting maxcrus.com.au

First things frst, the monogrammed collar. BTW this is not for attaching the lead, this is so others on your morning walk can identify your dog and start a conversation accordingly. If itís Coco or Fif, ignore them, they are designer white fuffy things and are not real dogs. If itís a spiked collar with Bruiser, Killer, Tyson, or Brutus embroidered on it, cross the street.

Then thereís the harness, because when all hell breaks

Daosa Piccadilly Valley RosÈ 2021, $65. This too has taken a lot of trouble to get into the bottle, like trying to get a naughty dog into the car after an exciting day out but it’s been worth the blush, specially if someone is watching. Lovely gear you wish you could drink all the time. 9.6/10.

loose when you bump into Hannibal again, you donít want to break Cuddlesí neck as you pull her back from his gnashing teeth and snapping, snarling jaws. Or you need good purchase if you have to pull T-Rex back from munching on Gidget.

The most important thing to remember is poo bags, something which those who walk before dawn always seem to forget. For the novice, one is not enough. Indeed just to be safe, three

Parish Vineyards Forcett (Tasmania) Sauvignon Blanc 2024, $35. What a delight to have sauvignon blanc again. Very much in the old school mould before we tried to make them taste like New Zealand. Delightful. 9.4/10.

Parish Vineyards Sorrell (Tasmania) Riesling 2024, $35. This is a much more

is recommended. If there is an opportunity for your dog to embarrass you, this is the most common and effective way, and they know it.

Donít forget the dogs treats in case you have to do some on the spot training or bribery.

What have I forgotten? Oh yes, the hat and sunscreen. A sensible skin care regime is as essential as the phone with the ftness tracker to show off your exercise regime to other sad, data-obsessed losers.

gris-like riesling than a South Australian or WA style, more ACT, but then not. Maybe a Southern Highlands? Hmm, maybe it’s just Tassie? Note to self, try a tassie pinot gris and see if it’s like riesling. 9.2/10.

Parish Vineyards Evandale (Tasmania) Pinot Gris 2024, $35.

We were out the door and off before I realised Iíd forgotten one important thingÖPANTS! Whoops. It was right at this moment I discovered Iíd forgotten another important thingÖthe door key.

Yep, thereís a lot to remember when walkiní the dog, and then you have to go through it all again in the afternoon?

Or you could just let Rover go on his own and have a glass of wine.

Minimal nose is something some people spend a lot on, while winemakers usually want the reverse. This could do with a nose job; it’s a bit too subtle. But some occasions require a gentler approach, such as a church service perhaps. Are they BYO? Ask your local vicar to stock this as the house wine. 9.1/10.

Max Crus

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

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

CYPRIOT GRAIN CHICKEN SALAD

INGREDIENTS

• 170g (1 cup) burghul (cracked wheat)

• 1.5kg Kent pumpkin, deseeded, peeled, cut into 3cm pieces

• 500g chicken tenderloins

• 1 tbsp Garlic Seasoning

• 1/2 tsp sweet paprika

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 x 400g can no-added salt chickpeas, rinsed

• 1 small red onion, fnely chopped

• 1 cup chopped fresh coriander leaves

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh continental parsley leaves

• 80g (1/2 cup) seed mix, toasted (see notes)

• 40g faked almonds, toasted

• 50g (1/3 cup) dried cranberries, coarsely chopped

• 45g (1/4 cup) currants

• 50g (1/4 cup) drained capers, coarsely chopped

• 60ml (1/4 cup) fresh lemon juice

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, extra

• 100g feta, crumbled

METHOD

1. Place burghul in a heatproof bowl. Cover with boiling water. Set aside for 20 minutes or until tender. Drain well. Transfer to a large bowl.

2. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 220°C/200°C fan forced. Line a large baking tray with baking paper. Place the pumpkin on the tray and spray with oil. Season. Roast for 35 minutes or until tender and caramelised. Set aside to cool.

3. Place the chicken, seasoning and paprika in a bowl. Toss until well combined. Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, for 3-4 minutes each side or until golden and cooked through. Thickly slice the tenderloins diagonally. Set aside, covered, to keep warm.

4. Add the chickpeas, onion, coriander, parsley, seed mix, almonds, cranberries, currants and capers to the bowl with the burghul. Toss until well combined. Add the pumpkin, lemon juice and extra oil. Gently stir to combine. Season.

5. Spoon the salad into a large serving platter. Top with chicken and feta to serve.

25m prep 20m cook Makes 12

INGREDIENTS

• 400g (2 2/3 cups) self-raising four, plus extra, to dust

• 100g (1/2 cup) caster sugar

• 60g butter, chilled, chopped

• 1 tbsp fnely grated lemon rind

• 250ml (1 cup) lemonade

• 80ml (1/3 cup) fresh lemon juice

• 25g bought mini meringues, fnely crushed

• 160ml (2/3 cup) thickened cream, whipped

• 130g (1/2 cup) bought lemon curd

• Icing sugar, to dust

METHOD

THAI MANGO AND NOODLE CHICKEN SALAD

25m prep 15m cook serves 4

INGREDIENTS

• 3 garlic cloves, crushed

• 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar

• 2 tbsp fsh sauce

• 1 1/2 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tsp caster sugar

• 2 mangoes, thinly sliced

• 1 cup fresh coriander leaves

• 1 long red chilli, seeded, thinly sliced

• 1/3 cup vegetable oil

• 500g chicken breast fllets, thinly sliced

• 150g dried thin rice stick noodles

• 1 Lebanese cucumber, seeded, cut into matchsticks

• 1 carrot, cut into matchsticks

• 1 red capsicum, thinly sliced

• 3 green onions, thinly sliced diagonally

• 1/2 cup small fresh mint leaves

• 2 tbsp fried shallots

METHOD

1. Place garlic, vinegar, fsh sauce, lime juice, sugar, half the mango, half the coriander and half the chilli in a food processor. Process until mixture is smooth. Add 1⁄4 cup oil. Process until combined. Season with salt and pepper. Place half the dressing in a medium bowl. Add chicken. Toss to coat.

2. Place noodles in a large, heatproof bowl. Cover with boiling water. Stand noodles for 7 minutes or until tender. Drain. Refresh under cold water. Drain. Return to bowl. 3. Meanwhile, heat half the remaining oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add half the chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes or until chicken is browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate. Cover to keep warm. Wipe pan clean. Repeat with remaining oil and chicken.

4. Add chicken, cucumber, carrot, capsicum, onion, mint and remaining mango and coriander to noodles. Add half the remaining dressing. Toss to combine. Transfer to a large serving bowl.

5. Top salad with fried shallots and remaining chilli. Drizzle with remaining dressing. Serve

2. Pour the lemonade into the well. Use a fat-bladed knife in a cutting motion to mix until evenly incorporated and the mixture just begins to hold together. Knead on a lightly foured surface until just smooth. Shape dough into a 2cm-thick disc. Use a round 6cm-diameter pastry cutter dipped in extra four to cut 12 rounds from the dough, reshaping offcuts as needed. Place the scones, slightly apart, on the prepared tray. Bake for 17 minutes or until golden and scones sound hollow when tapped on top.

3. Meanwhile, place the lemon juice and remaining sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to the boil over high heat. Boil for 3-4 minutes or until thickens slightly. Remove from heat.

1. Preheat oven to 220C/200C fan forced. Line a baking tray with baking paper. Sift the four into a large bowl. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the sugar. Use your fngertips to rub the butter into the mixture until it resembles fne crumbs. Stir in the rind. Make a well in the centre.

4. Use a serrated knife to slice the warm scones in half horizontally. Brush the tops of the scones with the syrup then sprinkle with meringue. Top the scone bases with cream and lemon curd then sandwich with the scone tops. Serve dusted with icing sugar.

40m prep 35m cook serves 8

Nothing compares to the satisfaction of growing your own fresh produce, and one of the most rewarding plants to cultivate is the humble avocado tree. With its creamy fruit enjoyed in everything from salads to smoothies, the avocado has become a staple in many kitchens. But instead of heading to the store, why not grow your own tree at home?

No, you don’t! A single avocado tree is capable of producing fruit on its own, as most varieties have both male and female fower phases on the same plant, allowing for self-pollination.

Avocado trees have a unique fowering process. Varieties are divided into two types based on their fowering patterns:

• Group A: Flowers open as female in the morning, close, and then reopen as male the following afternoon.

• Group B: Flowers open as female in the afternoon, close, and reopen as male the next morning.

While this alternating pattern usually allows self-pollination, there are times when the fowers’ male and female phases don’t overlap perfectly. In such cases, self-pollination may not occur, so planting

Growing an avocado tree from seed is surprisingly simple and a fun project for any home gardener. You only need three basic things to get started: an avocado, three toothpicks, and a glass of water.

plants from seed is always a bit of trial and error.

Avocado trees thrive in tropical and subtropical climates, but with proper

The key to healthy avocado growth lies in the soil. Avocado trees prefer deep, fertile, and well-draining soil. A few weeks before planting, enrich the soil by incorporating

different varieties nearby can improve the chances of successful pollination. This is why many avocado growers opt to plant multiple trees to ensure a reliable fruit set.

Start by carefully removing the pit from the avocado and giving it a good rinse to remove any remaining fruit. Identify the fat end of the seed (which will face downward) and the pointed end (which should face upward). Next, insert three toothpicks evenly around the seed’s middle, creating a support to suspend the bottom half in water. Place the seed in a glass of water, ensuring the fat bottom end is submerged. Change the water regularly to keep it fresh. Within 2 to 4 weeks, you should see roots emerging from the bottom and a sprout starting to grow from the top. If nothing happens after a few weeks, don’t be discouraged—simply try again! Growing

care, they can also grow well in warm temperate and cooler regions where frost is minimal or non-existent. Some cold-hardy varieties can withstand temperatures as low as -5°C, though frost tolerance varies depending on the cultivar, so it’s essential to check the label before purchasing.

Avocado trees fourish in full sun and should be planted in a location protected from strong winds. Young trees are susceptible to sunburn, particularly in the intense summer sun. To prevent this, consider applying a diluted whitewash to the trunk. Once established, avocado trees are hardy and can withstand a range of conditions.

and water well.

Regular watering is vital, especially when the tree is young. However, it’s important to avoid overwatering, as avocado trees dislike “wet feet” (waterlogged roots). Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.

Young avocado trees beneft from regular feeding with a complete fertiliser to encourage healthy growth. Once the tree matures and begins producing fruit, switch to feeding with organic chook manure or a complete fertiliser during fruit set. Repeat this feeding process in summer and early autumn to support fruit development and overall tree health.

well-aged cow manure and a generous amount of blood and bone. For those growing avocado trees in pots, it’s crucial to use a highquality, free-draining potting mix. This ensures proper root health and reduces the risk of root rot.

In tropical and subtropical areas, you can plant avocado trees year-round. However, in cooler regions, it’s best to plant during spring when the risk of frost is low.

To plant, dig a hole large enough to comfortably ft the tree’s root ball. Gently remove the tree from its pot, tease out the roots, and place it in the hole. Backfll with soil, apply mulch around the base,

When to Harvest Avocados Avocados reach maturity while still on the tree but only begin to ripen after being picked. To check if your avocados are ready for harvest, pick one and leave it indoors to ripen. If it softens without shrivelling, it’s a sign that the rest of the crop is ready to be picked. There’s no need to harvest all the fruit at once; however, don’t leave them hanging on the tree for too long, as this can reduce the tree’s fruiting potential for the following season. The time it takes for avocados to mature varies based on the local climate—trees in tropical and subtropical regions will typically produce ripe fruit earlier, while those in temperate and cooler areas may take longer.

LIAM JENNINGS

16th of January,

Story on Page 43

Egg Shortages Persist as Supermarkets Enforce Purchase Limits

IAN ROGERS

Shoppers across Australia are once again facing empty egg shelves and strict purchase limits as a national egg shortage continues to disrupt supply chains.

The combination of avian infuenza, seasonal demand, and the industry’s shift away from caged eggs is driving the scarcity, according to key stakeholders in the Australian egg industry.

Consumers Struggle to Find Eggs

Third-generation caged-egg farmer

Danyel Cucinotta, based in Werribee, Victoria, says the shortages are noticeable and frustrating for consumers.

“Plenty of friends have been calling me asking why they can’t get eggs,” Cucinotta said.

Woolworths has stated it is actively working to increase egg supply, but Cucinotta believes the shortages may linger for another six to twelve months.

“You’ll see us playing catch-up for quite some time,” she added.

Seasonal Demand and Industry Transition

The egg industry is undergoing a challenging transition as farms recover from avian infuenza outbreaks and shift away from caged-egg production to free-range or barn-laid systems.

Melinda Hashimoto, CEO of Egg Farmers of Australia, explained the

complexities involved: “It takes time and capital expenditure to establish new farming infrastructure.”

This delay, combined with strong seasonal demand, has put immense pressure on supply. Farmers impacted by avian fu require time to reintroduce birds after quarantine measures, further slowing recovery efforts.

Supermarkets and Smaller Retailers Feel the Strain

Major supermarkets like Woolworths and Coles are especially affected, partly due to their policies favoring barn-laid and free-range eggs. Signs apologizing for reduced stock have become commonplace,

urging consumers to explore smaller or local retailers for alternatives.

“Major supermarkets have policies to mostly stock barn-laid or freerange eggs,” Hashimoto said.

Rising Prices Add Pressure

The shortage has driven egg prices higher, with caged eggs seeing signifcant price jumps.

Boyd Carmody, managing director of Creswick Open Range Farm in Victoria, highlighted the changing consumer behavior:

“The bottom end of the market has raised their prices substantially. When there’s only a $5 disparity between caged and open-range eggs, people are prepared to spend more.”

Carmody’s farm, which operates with less than 200 hens per hectare, has experienced a 25% year-on-year increase in sales, but he notes that supply will remain tight until mid-to-late Spring.

Why Recovery Takes Time

Six months after the avian infuenza outbreak, farmers are still grappling with production challenges. Expanding egg supply requires a minimum six-month lead time due to the need to increase hen numbers gradually and ensure sustainable operations.

Liam Brokensha, director of The Splendid Egg poultry farm in South Australia, acknowledged the risks involved in scaling

production. “We’d love to take advantage of higher demand, but when we’ve increased numbers in the past, demand often drops before the eggs reach shelves,” Brokensha said.

Looking Ahead

While industry stakeholders work toward stabilizing supply, the path to recovery remains complex and dependent on various factors, including avoiding further outbreaks of avian infuenza.

For now, consumers may need to rely on smaller retailers and brace for higher prices as the egg industry navigates this transitional period

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

DETAILED REPORT: NORTHERN RIVERS LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE - PRIME CATTLE STATISTICS (JANUARY 8, 2025)

Overview:

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange held its PRIME Cattle sale on January 8, 2025, featuring 689 head across multiple categories. The report highlights prices

WARWICK

WARWICK & DISTRICT LIVESTOCK MARKETS –MCDOUGALL & SONS PTY LTD MARKET REPORT

This week saw smaller volumes of livestock yarded, with frm to slightly stronger prices for cattle and lamb markets. However, the mutton market experienced a decline due to limited numbers, and overall volumes in the pig and poultry categories

per kilogram and overall values for various cattle types, offering insights into market performance.

Key Statistics:

Per Head:

• STEERS: 2 lots sold, each averaging $110 with a total value of $220. Per Kilogram (Kg): Sale Summary:

• Total Lots Sold: 689

• Head Sold: 324

• Lowest Price per Kg: $88.2

• Highest Price per Kg: $458.2

• Average Price per Kg:

were down. Weather conditions and reduced prices contributed to a general drop across most categories.

Cattle Market

• Vealer Steers: Averaged 304.8c/kg, topping at 360.2c/kg or $706.04 to $1050.60.

• Vealer Heifers: Averaged 245.7c/kg, topping at 350.2c/kg or $593.07 to $928.03.

• Feeder Steers: Averaged 325.2c/kg, topping at 380.2c/kg or $1285.95 to $1945.84.

• Feeder Heifers: Averaged 275.6c/kg,

$315.5

• Total Weight Sold: 226,445 kg

• Total Value: $714,467.75

Insights:

• STEERS commanded the highest average price per kilogram at $385.7, reaching a high of $458.2.

• COWS contributed the largest volume by weight (97,620 kg) and total value ($266,544.44).

• BULLOCKS averaged $315.3/kg, demonstrating strong demand within their category.

topping at 338.2c/kg or $989.13 to $1420.44.

• Yearling Steers: Averaged 326.7c/kg, topping at 370.2c/kg or $1027.68 to $1591.23.

• Yearling Heifers: Averaged 274.3c/kg, topping at 387.2c/kg or $943.29 to $1355.20.

• Steers: Averaged 309.6c/ kg, topping at 364.2c/kg or $1691.30 to $2154.62.

• Heifers: Averaged 247.9c/kg, topping at 284.2c/kg or $1131.41 to $1436.23.

• Cows: Averaged 191.5c/ kg, topping at 230.2c/kg or $1008.28 to $1615.24.

This data, prepared at 12:03 PM, January 8, 2025, refects robust

• Bulls: Averaged 253.1c/ kg, topping at 295.2c/kg or $1674.46 to $2745.36. Lamb & Mutton Market

• Lambs: Topped at $141, averaged $109.78 (up $17).

• Hoggets: Topped at $116, averaged $61.35 (down $14).

• Ewes: Topped at $116, averaged $44.05 (down $21).

• Wethers: Topped at $92, averaged $61.06 (down $20).

• Rams: Topped at $72, averaged $48.37 (down $4).

• Lamb Rams: Topped at $51, averaged $46.28

market activity across all categories, emphasizing the strength of the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange in maintaining competitive prices.

(down $13).

• Ewe Lambs: Topped at $54, averaged $52.45 (down $51). Overall, the lamb sale total averaged $81.28, a $2/head drop week-on-week.

Pig Market

• Sows: Sold to $250.

• Baconers: Up to $192.

• Pork: Ranged from $85 to $170.

• Stores: From $50 to $166.

• Barrows: From $70 to $156.

• Gilts: From $112 to $140.

• Boars: To $100.

• Sow & Litter: To $725.

Poultry Market

• Trio of Ducks: To $17.50.

• Hens: To $35.

• Roosters: To $17.50.

• Ducks: To $22.50.

Summary

Despite some frmer prices in cattle and lamb markets, the general trend refected the impact of reduced numbers and challenging weather conditions. The mutton market showed a signifcant decline, while pig and poultry numbers remained modest but steady.

Report compiled by: Ross Ellis

It’s an early 2025 wrap-up to the 2024 sugarcane season

SUNSHINE SUGAR

The NSW sugar industry has seen an unusually late end to the 2024 crush with Harwood Sugar Mill closing out the season on Tuesday 7th January 2025.

The 2024 crushing season in NSW had a buoyant start, with some crops achieving yields as much as 20 percent higher than forecast due to an extended period of exceptionally favourable growing conditions. This larger crop saw the earlier than planned introduction of 7-day operations at the Broadwater Mill and the addition of some 20 extra cane haul bins as well as some additional vehicles to service the Harwood Mill.

Both the manufacturing and agricultural

operations were impacted by intense wet periods that occurred along the NSW north coast through September and November, resulting in signifcant delays to milling operations and pushing back much of the planting season.

Of NSW’s three sugar mills, the Condong Mill in the Tweed Valley fnished on December

13th having crushed just over 402,000 tonnes of sugarcane.

Of this, 22,000 tonnes of food grade Raw and Low GI sugar was produced at Condong, with the balance sent to the company’s refnery for white sugar production.

The Broadwater Mill which ceased crushing on December

20th, having crushed some 520,000 tonnes of sugarcane for the season. The remaining 4,000 tonnes of crop was harvested and transported to Harwood for processing.

In total, the Harwood Sugar Mill, which recently celebrated its 150 years of operation, crushed a total of 588,000 tonnes of

sugarcane.

Sunshine Sugar Chief Executive Mr Chris Connors said, “whilst it has been a challenging season on many fronts, I am grateful to the staff, growers, harvesters and transport operators who worked together and persevered to ensure our growers cane was successfully cut and crushed.”

The NSW owned and operated Refnery, co-located at Harwood, expects to produce around 215,000 tonnes of white and caster sugar, along with food grade molasses and syrups and with the 22000 tonnes of DC raw and Low GI sugar gives Sunshine Sugar a total of 235,000 tonnes supplied to the domestic sugar market. These products are exclusively grown, made and sold in Australia to a range of retailers as well as food and beverage manufacturers.

Mr Connors shared that strong crop prices would continue into next year for NSW growers off the back of solid domestic sugar pricing and a comprehensive sales program delivered in partnership with Manildra Group.

Keep the Sheep Campaign Challenges PM Albanese in WA

IAN ROGERS

This morning, Keep the Sheep campaigners attended Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s event in Alkimos, intensifying their call for the government to reverse its live sheep export ban. Despite their presence, the campaigners reported receiving no response from the Prime Minister regarding their concerns.

A Direct Message to the PM Campaign spokesperson and

WA trucking business owner Ben Sutherland expressed frustration at the lack of engagement.

“We warned Albo to keep an eye on his rear-view mirrors as we’d be there. Today we asked him directly about the sheep trade and received crickets,” said Mr. Sutherland.

He reiterated that the Keep the Sheep campaign is ready to make the issue a key focus of the upcoming election campaign.

“We want him to know that Keep the Sheep is primed and ready for the election

campaign.”

Grassroots Support and Political Pressure

The campaign has gained signifcant traction, boasting over 106,000 signatories on its petition and thousands of volunteers, collectively known as the ‘Farmy Army.’

“The ‘Farmy Army’ won’t let Albo visit WA without seeing our supporters and hearing the message loud and clear,” Sutherland said.

He also pointed to the possibility of reversing the ban before the next election, urging

the government to act during what may be the fnal parliamentary sitting week.

“With possibly just one more parliamentary sitting period before the election, the PM faces a choice: reverse this devastating ban, or be prepared to see us and hear us every time he sets foot in WA between now and election day,” Sutherland warned.

Impact on Farmers and Industry

The live sheep export ban has already had a profound impact, with many farmers exiting

the industry and sheep numbers plummeting to record lows. Sutherland criticized the Albanese Government’s policy for undermining the livelihoods of sheep farmers across WA and beyond.

Proven Grassroots Action

The Keep the Sheep campaign has demonstrated its ability to mobilize support, including a highly visible truck rally through the Perth CBD and a major rally in Muresk. The campaign’s persistent efforts refect the deep

opposition within the farming community to the live export ban.

A Growing Election Issue

As the next federal election approaches, the Keep the Sheep campaign is determined to make live export policy a central political issue in Western Australia. With signifcant grassroots momentum, the campaign signals that Prime Minister Albanese and the Labor Government will face continued scrutiny and pressure on this divisive policy.

Regional WA Towns Push Back Against Rapid Wind Energy Expansion

The rapid rollout of wind turbines across Western Australia’s agricultural regions is raising concerns among local communities, who feel sidelined in the decisionmaking process. With more than 600 turbines planned for farmland south-east of Perth, residents are questioning the fairness of the state government’s approach.

A Lack of Clear Frameworks

Unlike New South Wales and Queensland, Western Australia has yet to establish formal rules for how renewable energy companies engage with local communities. This absence has left shire councils and residents grappling with

signifcant challenges, from land access to the economic impact of these developments.

Darkan farmer Karlene Goss recalled the frst notice of a project near her property: a business card left on her kitchen table. “This is a billiondollar industry,” she said. “The government needs to ensure there are commonsense ground rules to minimize impacts on communities, farmland, the environment, and our health.”

Community Concerns Local governments have been forced to mediate between the state, energy companies, and residents, often without suffcient resources. Leaders like Wagin Shire President Phillip Blight highlighted the secrecy surrounding

early discussions: “The frst thing talked about is confdentiality; don’t discuss it with neighbors.”

Residents want clarity on two fronts:

1. Economic Benefts: Towns seek assurance that wind farm projects will bring long-term advantages, not just temporary construction jobs.

2. Legal Protections: Landholders need safeguards against potential disruptions caused by the developments.

Balancing Transition and Collaboration

The state’s energy coordinator, Jai Thomas, acknowledged the importance of community acceptance: “We need new wind energy ahead of coal timelines, but it’s critical

to ensure communities beneft.”

Community forums have raised key issues, including fre mitigation, decommissioning, and fair compensation. While some residents view the turbines as necessary progress, others fear the projects will alter landscapes and create divides within communities.

A Path Forward

As WA transitions from coal to renewables, the government has promised a collaborative approach. However, local leaders insist that more transparency, consistent engagement, and robust community benefts frameworks are essential to ensure regional towns thrive alongside renewable energy developments.

ABARES Weekly Australian Climate, Water, and Agricultural Update: 8 January 2025

The week ending 8 January 2025 brought varied rainfall patterns across Australia, driven by low-pressure systems impacting the north, east, and west. Key highlights include signifcant rainfall in northern cropping regions, mixed pasture growth, and promising rainfall outlooks for the months ahead.

Weekly Rainfall Recap

• Northern and Eastern Regions: Signifcant rainfall totals ranging from 5–50 millimetres were recorded in northern cropping areas of Queensland and northern New South Wales, boosting soil moisture levels and supporting summer crop production.

• Southern Regions:

Drier conditions prevailed, with most areas receiving 0–25 millimetres of rainfall.

Outlook for the Coming Days

• North and East: Low-pressure systems are expected to deliver up to 100 millimetres of rainfall in parts of Queensland and New South Wales, benefting cropping areas.

• Other Cropping Regions: Little to no rainfall is anticipated.

Seasonal Conditions

• December 2024 Rainfall:

o Most of Australia experienced average to extremely high rainfall, with well above average totals in eastern and western areas.

o Parts of the south recorded below average rainfall, impacting soil moisture levels and pasture growth.

• Pasture Growth:

o Northern Australia: Average to extremely high growth due to above-average rainfall.

o Eastern and Southern Australia: Below average to extremely low growth, refecting drier conditions.

• Soil Moisture:

o Low levels persist in southern Australia.

o Above average soil moisture is evident in eastern Queensland, northern New South Wales, and large parts of Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

National Rainfall Outlook (February–April 2025)

The outlook indicates a high probability of above median rainfall across eastern and western Australia:

• Queensland and Northern NSW:

o 75% chance of rainfall between 100–200 millimetres, improving

soil moisture and supporting summer crop yields.

• Southern and Western Areas of Eastern Regions:

o Expected totals of 50–100 millimetres, likely aiding pasture growth and soil profles. Implications for Agriculture

• Increased rainfall in the coming months is expected to boost soil moisture profles and support summer crop production in Queensland and northern NSW.

• Summer pasture growth may also improve in areas forecast to receive signifcant rainfall, helping offset the mixed growth observed over the past three months.

No updates have been provided for water markets and storage since the last publication.

IAN ROGERS

IAN ROGERS

In Memoriam

Memorial Ron Bateman

“There’s a special kind of feeling When I think about you, Dad It’s beautiful to remember All the happy times we’ve had There’s a special kind of caring & loving That is meant for you alone There’s a place within my heart That only you can own Missing you always Dad.

(formerly Grieve, nee Todd)

Late of Toowoomba and formerly of Kyogle, passed away peacefully on 8th January 2025, aged 95 years.

Betty was a beloved Wife, loving Mother and Mother-in-law and adored Grandmother and Great-Grandmother to her family.

A graveside memorial service will be held for Betty at a date to be announced.

Funeral

Notice

ASHTON, JEAN MIRIAM

Passed away peacefully.

Beloved wife of John, loved by her son’s Graeme, Andrew and their families.

Loving sister of George (dec), Rosemary and their families.

Jean’s Memorial Service will be held at the Alstonville Baptist Church, 108 Wardell Road Alstonville, on Friday 17 January 2025, commencing at 1pm.

Death Notice

STROKARCK, Betty Merle

CASUAL POSITION AVAILABLE FOR BUS DRIVER

ABOUT US:

Northern Rivers Tours & Alstonville Bus Service are a locally owned and operated bus and charter service providing clients across the Northern Rivers with professional, reliable, and safe transport. We have a team of experienced drivers, and a feet of modern school buses, coaches and minibuses.

THE ROLE:

Ideal Job for Semi Retrees, Opportunity to earn extra income without afectng pension. Currently we have a casual role with an immediate start available for the right person to join our team of Bus Drivers. The role includes designated school bus runs as well as coach charters.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• A current NSW Bus Driver Authority Card

• A minimum MR Class Drivers Licence

• Be willing to complete all screening checks –including medicals, police checks, references and a working with children check

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WEATHER

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog inland. Slight chance of a shower. The chance of a storm. Light winds becoming northeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers. The chance of a storm. Light winds becoming northwest to southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then tending south to southeasterly during the afternoon.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the north. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm. Light winds becoming west to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then turning north to northeasterly during the day.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers. The chance of a storm. Winds northwest to northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h tending northwest to southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then tending south to southeasterly during the evening.

New South Wales: Isolated to scattered shower and storms developing into the afternoon. Storm possibly severe about the inland, extending over the ranges by the evening with damaging winds and heavy rainfall a risk. Daytime temperatures near to above average. Westerly winds though the inland, tending northeasterly about the coast. Thursday. Scattered showers and storms about the east, shifting to the northeast into the day. Storms possibly severe about the northeast. Clear and sunny in the west. Daytime temperatures near average in the northeast, otherwise below average elsewhere. North to northwesterly winds in the northeast, tending to a fresh and gusty south to southeasterly otherwise across the state.

Byron Coast: Winds: Northeasterly 15 to 20 knots turning northerly during the evening. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres south of Cape Byron during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Easterly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore north of Yamba. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: North to northeasterly 15 to 25 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Northeasterly around 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Gold Coast Waters:

Winds: Variable about 10 knots becoming northeasterly 10 to 15 knots during the day then tending northerly during the evening. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Easterly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Weather: Mostly sunny.

THE SPORTZOLOGIST

Although Australia were victorious in the Border-Gavasker Trophy, winning the series 3-1, India’s premier fastbowler Jasprit Bumrah, was an unstoppable force against Australia this summer.

The way that Bumrah dominated our batsmen, reminded me how Englands John Snow did a similar dismantling operation for his country on the infamous Ashes tour of 1970-71.

As a wide eyed eleven-year-old, I was able to watch this series on television, as this was the frst time our national

broadcaster the ABC, had provided ball by ball coverage of Test cricket, albeit in ghostly, grainy black and white, flmed with a solitary camera behind the bowler from only one end.

John Snow, who had reinvented his action in his mid-twenties, became a bowler of genuine speed and with his habit of targeting batsmen with short deliveries, he found the pace and bounce of Australian pitches much to his liking.

Snow’s aggressive and hostile bowling, which had all the Australian batsmen ducking and weaving, was a decisive factor in England winning back the Ashes

by a 2-0 margin.

The Sussex fast-bowler, fnished with 31 wickets at 22.83, the best return by an England bowler in Australia, since Harold Larwood’s 33 wickets at 19.51 in the 1932-33 Bodyline series. By winning that series, Ray Illingworth became the only English captain, to win the Ashes in Australia without losing a match, in a series of fve Tests or more. Also, in another rare occurrence, England did not receive one single LBW decision from the Australian umpires, during the six completed Tests matches.

Australian opener Keith Stackpole, through his

powerful stroke play, was the only batsman to weather the snowstorm. If the frst ball of a Test match was there to be hit, then Stackpole’s solid frame would launch into it.

In the series, Stackpole accumulated 627 runs at 52.25 with a top score of 207, however, that 207 scored in the frst Test at the Gabba, was clouded in controversy when he was not given runout on 18, by Australian umpire Lou Rowan.

Stackpole, who was a master of the hook and cut shots, was the frst aggressive opener I saw and he set the blueprint for Australian players like Michael Slater, Matthew Hayden and David Warner to follow.

In a controversial move by selectors, 36-year-old

Victorian opener Ken Eastwood, on the back of 737 runs in the Sheffeld Shield at an average of 122.83, was selected to replace the incumbent Australian captain Bill Lawry, for the historic seventh and fnal Test at Sydney.

Lawry was reportedly told of his sacking from the captaincy and Test side by a radio broadcast, as the Australian selectors headed by Sir Donald Bradman, apparently couldn’t get in touch with him.

In this his one and only Test for Australia, Eastwood scored just 5 and 0, however, in an error by offcials he has two baggy green caps. In an interview many years later Eastwood stated, “They gave me two caps to try on for size,

and nobody asked for the other one back, so it stayed in my bag.”

Famously the third Test of this series at Melbourne was washed out without a ball being bowled, resulting in the hasty arrangement of the frst One Day International (ODI) on the scheduled ffth day, January 5, 1971.

The 40 eight ball over a side match attracted 46,000 spectators through the MCG gates to watch Australia defeat England comfortably by fve wickets on the same ground they had won the frst Test match in 1877.

With England having to win the 1970-71 series to take possession of the Ashes, the fnal result was in doubt till the last session of the seventh Test.

The Clarence River Cricket Association has been able to donate more than $1700 to cancer charity the McGrath Foundation after the association’s Pink Stumps Day.

The carnival of T20 cricket was held at the McKittrick Park complex in South Grafton on December 21 and featured some stunning cricket as well as great support from the cricket community.

CRCA president Anthony Dickson thanked the clubs who played and those who came to support the event.

“We think it was a successful day, we hope all who came down and supported the event had a great time socialising and watching some great cricket,” he said.

BALLINA MAHJONG

RESULTS – 10 JANUARY

2025 The results from this week’s

Ballina Mahjong game are in! Congratulations to the top players:

1. Ronda Taylor

2. Coral Lavelle

3. Jan Boardman

4. Valda McLerie

5. Margaret Bryant

Other players’ rankings

include:

• Pauline Kearney

• Jan Rhodes

• Lorna Simpson

• Vanessa Reynolds

• Barbara Ellan, Gail McDonagh, Kath Hubbard

“With donations, the barbecue and the raffes we raised a total of $1726.80.

“That money will go to the McGrath Foundation to support those individual’s and their families who are impacted by breast cancer.

“We thank all the local businesses and members who dug deep and gave generously to support a great cause.”

Dickson also thanked the local businesses who dug deep to provide

prizes for the raffes held at the ground during the carnival.

They were:

• Content Stone

• The Book Warehouse Grafton

• Naeco Blue Seafoods

• Dan Murphy’s

• @ Bunnings Grafton

• Horseshoehooky

• harveyjewellers

grafton

• South Grafton Ex Servicemens Club

• Full Function

Remedial Therapy

• Sportspower Grafton

The McGrath

• Joy Lowien

• Gladys D’Anna

• Lynda Lovett

• Carol Meyer

• Susan Allan

• Jenny Lang, Pam Farrell

• Kathy Pickles

• Cindy Smith

• Janene Jarvis

• Ann Hewitt

• Shirley Atkinson

• Lisa Wong

• Wendy Thornton

• Sally Lowry, Yvonne Weddup

• Jan Small

• Jan Henley

• Ramsay Roper

• Pauline Bolte

Join Us for Mahjong!

Mahjong is played every Friday at 12:30pm at the Ballina Bridge Club. New players are always welcome, regardless of experience.

If you’re interested in joining, please contact Shirley on 0423 384 647. Come along and enjoy a friendly game in a great community atmosphere!

CHERRY STREET

CROQUET CLUB: LATEST SPORTS

RESULTS AND UPDATES

Ricochet Croquet Results

• M. Field & D. Scott

defeated R. Allen & N. Poynting: 13-11

Foundation raises money to fund McGrath Breast Care Nurses in communities across Australia and invests in their professional development to ensure people with breast cancer receive the highest standard of care.

The foundation has 233 McGrath breast care nurses, who help people and their families experiencing breast cancer by offering medical expertise, clinical care and psychosocial support, for

free.

From the time of diagnosis and throughout treatment, the foundation’s nurses are available to help.

So far more than 143,000 families have been supported since 2005, but the foundation looks to build on that record.

More nurses are needed to meet the growing rate of breast cancer diagnosis in Australia.

McGrath Foundation nurses work across Australia including

• N. Watts & J. Hannigan

defeated J. Doust & R. Poynting: 14-9

• Bev Bill defeated D. Jones: 12-12 (Bev Bill won by tie-breaking rule)

• P. Bolte defeated N. Barnes & M. Russell: 14-12

• B. Wellings & Bev Bill

defeated C. Edlund & P. Bolte: 12-12 (win by rule)

• Brenton Bill & N. Watts

defeated J. Doust & W. Gilmore: 16-14

• R. Poynting & D. Scott

defeated P. Waters & N.

Poynting: 7-6

• M. Russell defeated R. Allen: 14-6

• J. Hannigan & M. Field

defeated J. Doust & M. Russell: 12-11

• N. Barnes & P. Bolte

defeated N. Watts: 17-12

• D. Scott & B. Wellings defeated R. Poynting & N. Poynting: 14-9

• H. Young defeated P. Scott: 13-10

Upcoming Events and Deadlines

• Club Championships Entry Deadline: 19 January 2025

o Late entries will not be accepted.

o Categories include:

- Association, Ricochet, and Golf Croquet

- OBE, Novice, Singles,

many regional and rural centres, where breast cancer treatment and support may be harder to reach.

The McGrath Foundation has become one Australia’s most recognised and respected charities since Jane and Glenn McGrath’s very public experience with breast cancer.

When Jane was diagnosed with cancer for a second time, she had the support of a breast care nurse, who both empowered and comforted her, and her family.

This experience set the mission for the foundation, which has become an enduring commitment: to ensure every family experiencing breast cancer has the support of a Breast Care Nurse, no matter where they live – for free.

Doubles, High & Low Doubles

- Handicap Singles & Doubles

• Club General Meeting: Thursday, 6 February 2025, at 12:00 PM

o Venue: Cherry Street Croquet Club

New Members Welcome Cherry Street Croquet Club invites individuals of all ages to join this vibrant community sport. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a novice, there’s a place for everyone to enjoy the game and camaraderie.

TIM HOWARD

The Easts cricket team decked out in their pink caps ahead of their opening game in the CRCA Pink Stumps day at McKittrick Park, South Grafton.

Some of the spectators enjoying the shade on offer at J J Lawrence Field while taking in some of the 20/20 action during Pink Stumps Day.

CRICKET REDUCED TO ONE DAYERS

The Clarence Valley’s frst grade cricketers get a chance of playing one day cricket on Saturday after rain washed out the frst day of the frst game of 2025.

The shortened format can suit some teams and hamper others, but most interest remains on the

clash between South Services/Westlawn and Lawrence at Ulmarra Showground.

Souths Westlawn tops the competition table while Lawrence is in third spot and looking to improve its position. Lawrence had the best of the corresponding game at the start of the season when we weather enabled

Souths/Westlawn to secure a draw despite being well behind in the game.

The shortened format should not affect the barn storming Harwood outft which has been in devastating form in the frst half of the season.

Despite trailing Souths/Westlawn, they have been the form team of the season,

boasting century makers in Coby Tabor – with two – and Adrian Turner as well as match-winning legspinner Jacob McMahon, who already has 30 wickets for the season.

Harwood line up against Coutts Crossing at Lower Fisher Turf on Saturday and it is hard to predict anything but

another big win for the premiers.

It’s hard to believe that GDSC Easts and Tucabia Copmanhurst are battling each other to get off the bottom of the table at Ellem Oval, Grafton.

Both are fairly recent premiers in the CRCA frst grade competition and have a wealth of talent in their playing ranks.

Easts all-round Shannon Connor is one player who has not disappointed this year, but needs more support from the rest of the team.

For Tucabia it’s a matter of getting the best players on the paddock week in, week out.

TIM HOWARD