The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 194

Ulmarra fights to save its ferry

By Tim Howard

The picturesque sight of the ferry carrying traffic across the Clarence at Ulmarra, a feature of river life since the 1890s, could soon be no more.

On June 10 the operating certificate for the existing ferry expires and the 12-18 month lead time and estimated $4 million cost of replacing it will be a factor weighing heavily on investigations to decide on the future of the service.

On Monday Ulmarra residents flocked to Bailey Park, on the banks of the Clarence at Ulmarra, for the launch of a petition to the NSW Government aimed at saving the service.

Member for Clarence Richie Williamson has raised the petition, which he has promised to take to State Parliament to ensure the voice of the local community figures heavily in the deliberations on the ferry’s future.

The NSW Opposition transport spokesperson, Dave Layzell, joined Mr Williamson at the meeting and he was critical of the government for putting the service under threat.

“This is not about the numbers,” he said. “It is about that community infrastructure, it’s about making sure that people can get across there to work.

“It’s about making sure that people over there can get across and come across here for a pub lunch. It’s about making the place work.”

He said the costs of running the ferry would have minimal impact on the budget bottom line.

“Infrastructure like this is not going to save the NSW

budget,” he said.

“It’s not gonna make any difference to those people down there who are drinking their lattes. It’s gonna make a difference to you.”

Mr Williamson thanked the crowd who turned out on Monday for their passion and commitment in supporting the ferry petition.

“For him it’s 1km to get to the ferry, but it will become a 78km round trip, four days a week.”

She said the ferry was an important feature for the village.

“The Ulmarra Ferry is a vital part of the local community, which is primarily a farming and tourism community,” Ms

“We’ve all found out through rumours that this ferry is going to be taken away from us and we found out on Friday, from Transport for NSW that the end date is June 10.” He urged the community to take the fight to the government. “We’ve got to fight hard, we’ve got to

that will have to do an 80km round trip to get to their property on the other side without this ferry.”

A transport for NSW spokesperson said its investigations have revealed the vessel currently doing the job has reached its end of life and other factors, such as declining use of the

“The community has turned out in en masse today to support the launch of this community petition and that’s what it is,” he said.

“It is a community petition and a community movement to tell the government how important this facility is here at Ulmarra.”

Ulmarra businesswoman Sue Kearney told a story about an Ulmarra resident who would be severely disadvantaged if the ferry service ends.

“I just spoke to a worker this morning who travelled four times a week across on the ferry, she said.

Kearney said. “School children, workers, cyclists, tourists and especially farmers use it daily as well as it being a life-saving route in times of emergency.

“Ulmarra is one of few historical riverport towns left in the country with the ferry being a major drawcard for tourists and boost to the local economy.”

Cr Steve Pickering said the government was making moves to shut down the ferry service without any consultation with the community.

“We find out now there’s been no consultation with the community,” he said.

impacts, will all be considered as part of the investigations into the ferry operations. Transport for NSW will keep the community informed as these investigations progress.”

Government figures show the ferry services costs the taxpayer around $800,000 a year to run and since the opening of the Balun Bindarray bridge in Grafton in 2019, use of the ferry has dropped by around 46%

In 2021-22 the ferry averaged 73 crossings of the river a day, carrying an average of 88 cars a day or 1.36 cars for every trip. This equated to a cost to the taxpayer of $22 for every vehicle that uses the ferry service, when it is available.

The spokesperson said the impact of closing the ferry service on emergency services would be minimal. He said emergency service vehicles would only use the Ulmarra-Southgate ferry on the rare occasions where all other available routes are impassable.

come together as a community,” he said.

“It’s a vital piece of infrastructure for so many people. If we lived in Sydney, they would be building a tunnel for us they would be spending $30 billion on a tunnel for us to get from one side of the river to the other.”

He said the ferry united the two communities of Southgate and Ulmarra.

“We’ve got Southgate on one side, we’ve got Ulmarra on the other,” he said.

“We’ve got farmers with farm property on both sides of this river

ferry and siltation in the river have also had an impact.

“The investigation found the current vessel, which has been in operation for more than 70 years, has reached the end of its useful life and cannot be used past June 10, when its certificate to operate expires,” the spokesperson said.

“Repeated and ongoing siltation on the Southgate side of the river has had significant impact on the reliability of the current service, with the water often too shallow for the ferry to pass.

“These and other matters, including community

“Most of the emergency vehicles that service Ulmarra and Southgate are based in Grafton,” he said.

“For emergencies near Ulmarra, these vehicles use the Balun Bindarray Bridge in Grafton and Big River Way, and for emergencies near Southgate they use the Lawrence Road.

“Changes to the ferry operations would not change these preferred routes.”

He said Ulmarra has its own SES unit and is the headquarters of the Rural Fire Service Fire Control Centre for the Clarence Valley.

Ulmarra residents gathered in Bailey Park, Ulmarra on Monday to fight any moves to shut down the village’s ferry service.

The future of the Ulmarra Ferry services that has operated since the 1890s, is uncertain, with the current vessel’s certificate due to expire on June 10. Photo: Simon Hughes.

Northern Rivers popularity predicted to soar

By Sarah Waters

Close to 900,000 commercial passengers are predicted to pass through Ballina Byron Gateway Airport each year by 2040, as the Northern Rivers region continues to be a popular drawcard for tourism, business opportunities and liveability.

On March 7, Ballina Byron Gateway Airport officially opened its $20.68 million runway upgrade.

Since covid, there has been a huge increase in the number of flights in and out of the airport.

Airport manager Julie Stewart said currently about 635,000 commercial passengers come through the busy regional airport each year, but these numbers are predicted to soar in the next 15 years.

“Our airport is a key gateway for visitors to the beautiful Northern Rivers region, but the airport is also essential to support emergency service aircraft during

regional disasters,” Ms Steward said.

Population growth, post-COVID migration to regional areas and increased remote work flexibility have driven interest in the region.

Tourism has been fuelled by the popularity of the coastal areas, with the famed beaches, hinterlands and major music festivals.

According to the Northern Rivers Regional Economic Development Strategy - 2023 Update, tourism remained a key source of economic output and major employment in the region.

Spending by visitors in the region was $1.2 billion in 2021, despite significant impacts from natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Improvements to visitor accessibility to the region through investment in key transport infrastructure such as the airport, was flagged as an opportunity to support ongoing growth in the sector.

Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the investment in the airport, was an investment in the community and its economy.

“The runway upgrade will ensure the community have continued reliable and safe air services into the future for local tourism and business, while also providing aviation jobs

and career opportunities for local residents,” she said.

Ms Cadwallader said the Ballina Shire alone was an attractive residential and commuter hub.

“The region’s Visiting Friends and Relatives (VFR) market, noted by Tourism Research Australia, stands as Ballina’s second-largest market source, further

boosting airport traffic as local residents host visitors.

“The region has seen significant public and private investment in tourism-related products, further enhancing its appeal.

“Ballina Coast and Hinterland, though lesser known than Byron Bay, offers a rich visitor experience, striking a balance between coastal charm and a dynamic community.

“As a gateway to the Northern Rivers, Ballina, in particular, offers a relaxed pace, ample amenities and a vibrant community,” she said.

According to Economy. Id, tourism is a significant economic driver in the Ballina Shire, employing 1681 people and contributing $257.4 million to the local economy in the 21/22 period.

The forecasted growth in the region is based on historical patterns since the airport’s construction in the mid-1980s.

Ballina Byron Gateway

Airport serves not only

Ballina and Byron but also broader catchment areas, including southern Queensland and regions west and south of the Northern Rivers.

The increased flights experienced during/ following Covid border closures heightened awareness of the airport among neighbouring regional communities.

The Ballina Tourism Team recently unveiled the new Ballina Coast and Hinterland Visitor Guide, which highlights the region’s unmissable experiences.

The publication was made in collaboration with more than 45 local businesses.

Through a series of captivating imagery, insightful editorials and essential information, it encourages visitors to explore the region and discover the unique experiences on offer.

Sharpes Beach, Ballina, is one of the many attractions in the Shire for locals and visitors

Front page photo: Ballina Byron Gateway Airport has been upgraded to support the huge increase in the flights coming in and out of the region’s busiest airport

Place planning walkshop has residents talking

By Samantha Elley

A small number of residents within the MidRichmond area were asked to join consultants from Brisbane-based Place Design Group for a ‘walkshop’ through Evans Head last week, including yours truly.

Starting at the Evans Head Surf Club, this involved a walk along the footpath to the river, then through the park, stopping along the way to discuss opportunities and challenges for topics such as tourism, housing and population growth, economic development in the town centre and infrastructure.

Similar gatherings were also held at Broadwater, Rileys Hill and Coraki as Richmond Valley Council works on its Place Planning Project.

“ (Council) will also explore opportunities to

build resilience against future flooding and adapt to a changing climate,” said council’s website.

“Council is partnering with the NSW Reconstruction Authority to pilot a combined

approach to place planning and adaptation planning for this project. This will help to ensure that these communities can remain safe and sustainable into the future.”

Community workers, business people, residents and council staff joined the walkshop and discussed many different ideas and issues. These included

disability access to local beaches, toilets and a barbeque at the skate park, the need for mental health services and overall expanded medical services to service a growing population, accommodation for staff, sporting facilities and many other topics. All ideas were taken on board by the consultants. Details of future consultation sessions will be published on council’s website and social media sites for those interested in providing input into the project.

$1.4 MILLION UPGRADE FOR LISMORE SOWGROUND ROAD NETWORK

Safety and amenity have been improved at the historic Lismore Showground following a $1.4 million investment by Crown Lands to revamp its internal road network.

The Lismore Showground isn’t just a critical local community asset that plays host to a number of major events each year, but has also been used as an evacuation centre during past natural disasters in the region.

Approximately 1.1 kilometres of Lismore Showground’s roads have been repaired and upgraded to become much safer and more accessible, allowing visitors of all ages to come and enjoy

the livestock shows, motorcar racing, farmers markets, school events, carnivals, and all the other community events held at the showground.

The showground’s original concrete roads were constructed in 1974 and had deteriorated and were no longer fit for purpose. Heavy vehicle and pedestrian use over the years had resulted in uneven surfaces, potholes and loose gravel, with flooding causing more damage.

The uneven surface also meant the roads were not accessible for parents with strollers and people with a disability and their carers. Six roads across the network have now been fully replaced, allowing

for a much easier and enjoyable visitor experience.

The work was funded by a $645,000 COVID Stimulus grant and a $200,000 Showground Stimulus Fund contribution.

Lismore Showground was badly impacted by the devastating floods that impacted many communities across the Northern Rivers region. The showground also received a $585,000 Treasury Managed Fund Flood Insurance payment to help repair the roads which were badly waterlogged and damaged.

A geo-fabric bed was installed across the network to stop potholes forming and mitigate the

risk of erosion, before a new road base and asphalt was laid down. A new drainage system was installed which removed water and trip hazards from the road complex.

Excavated concrete and road base fill was recycled into an overflow car park as a recycling and sustainability initiative. An electric entry gate was also installed as part of the project.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“Showgrounds are a vital resource for regional communities hosting everything from agricultural shows to farmers markets, music festivals and school

career days. “This $1.4 million investment to upgrade the road network at Lismore Showground has improved this historic community venue and will help bring a resilient community even closer together.”

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said:

“Our community has been hit hard the last few years, but we always come together at Lismore Showground.

“About 75% of the roads across the showground are now brand new. This is a major investment that is another example of the NSW Government and local community coming together for the betterment of all.”

Lismore Showground and North Coast National Secretary Mark Sollom said:

“Lismore Showground has been the bedrock of our community for over 100 years. It’s the heart of our town, where people gather both during good times and the bad.

“Unfortunately, the old concrete road network that ran through the park was becoming a significant safety concern. Now our roads have been brought into the 21st century meaning more people can access the educational, agricultural and community events we hold at the showground.”

A step forward in animal welfare in the Tweed

By Sarah Waters

Construction of a new state-of-the-art animal pound cannot come soon enough for a dedicated group of volunteers who work tirelessly to keep cats and dogs off the street.

Next year, the doors to the new Tweed Pound and Rehoming Centre are expected to open on Lundberg Drive, in South Murwillumbah.

The new centre will be open seven days a week and has the capacity to house up to 40 dogs and 40 cats in need of new homes.

It will include veterinary care, an animal enrichment area, rangers’ office and an administration area.

Not-for-profit animal welfare organisation

Friends of the Pound (FoP) will operate the rehoming of dogs and cats at the new pound once it has been built.

Friends of the Pound rescue the Shire’s lost and unwanted pets but have had to find alternative ways to

Volunteers, school students, community groups and Council staff picked up more than 950 kilograms of litter across the Shire on the first weekend in March as part of Clean-Up Australia Day. Sarah Child, Council’s Resource Recovery Strategy and Engagement Officer, said that participants removed an outstanding amount

manage the influx of homeless animals since the council’s former pound, at Stotts Creek, closed in 2019. The former pound was closed due to the expansion of the Stotts Creek Waste and Recovery Centre.

The group of volunteer animal lovers at FoP have provided thousands of cats, dogs and rabbits with transient homes

through foster carers, a private boarding kennel and two adoption centres - Pet Barn and Best Friends Rescue.

Friends of the Pound has an outlet store in Tweed Heads South where it runs an op shop, sells pet food, offers discounted desexing vouchers and houses some of the cats that are ready for adoption.

It also has an outlet

store in Murwillumbah, but that is due to close in June as the lease can’t be renewed.

Friends of the Pound President Sonia Trichter said there are a large number of unwanted animals in need of a home and construction of the new Tweed Pound and Rehoming Centre is welcomed news.

“It’s been a long wait since 2019,” Ms Trichter

said.

“But we’re all really excited.

“We’ve still got 75 cats and dogs on our waitlistwe’re lucky if we get one adoption a day, it goes in peaks and troughs,” she said.

In the meantime, Friends of the Pound is committed to reducing the number of unwanted and homeless animals through community

Byron Shire gets cleaned up

of waste from clean-up events across this Shire.

“Council partnered with Positive Change for Marine Life to host a clean in Brunswick Heads this year. Together with volunteers we removed 80 kilograms of waste near Torakina and Brunswick Heads beach,” she said.

“At the other end of Brunswick Heads volunteers collected 750

kilograms of items and the Byron Bird Buddies removed an extra 120 kilograms of litter from along the Brunswick River!” she exclaimed.

“We were pleased to see over 16 clean-up events across the Shire this year. This included community, school, and business clean-up events. “It was great to see so many people involved in not only the

education.

It will offer discounted desexing vouchers until the end of June and continues to promote responsible pet ownership.

Ms Trichter said over the past year FoP has prevented the birth of approximately 600 unwanted kittens and puppies through the desexing program.

“People also need to realise when you get a pet it is for life – you just don’t get rid of them because you want to travel, move house or buy a younger model,” she said.

Ms Trichter said a lot of work went into preventing backyard breeding, which has caused an inundation of unwanted and unhealthy puppies.

Tweed Shire Council is currently calling for tenders to design and construct the new Tweed Pound and Rehoming Centre.

For more information please visit: tweed.nsw. gov.au/tenders-contracts.

clean-up events, but also helping us with the audit process, where we sort through the waste,” she said. The audit from the Council clean-up event uncovered:

• 280 cigarette butts

• 101 confectionary wrappers

• 99 pieces of clothing

• 967 plastic items

• 70 takeaway packages.

Friends of the Pound President Sonia Trichter says the new Tweed Pound and Rehoming Centre is welcomed news

More land released to support Northern Rivers’ recovery

A development at Mount Pleasant Estate, delivering up to 50 dwellings in Goonellabah, is the next stage of the $100 million Resilient Lands Program (RLP) to bring on new food-resilient land in the Northern Rivers.

Construction and enabling works for land sites will commence by mid-2024. The Mount Pleasant Estate site will demonstrate the best use of mixed-housing types designed to integrate with the surrounding neighbourhood and natural features.

Mount Pleasant Estate is the second site to be identifed under the RLP and follows the February 9 announcement of more than 400 new homes proposed at East Lismore, thanks to a partnership between the Reconstruction Authority (RA), Southern Cross University and Landcom.

The $100 million RLP aims to accelerate the delivery of new land and housing options, linking with the $700 million Resilient Homes Program (RHP) to give food impacted homeowners a pathway to move off the foodplain and out of harm’s way.

It comes off the back of a community-focused reset of recovery efforts which is being informed by feedback from

the Northern Rivers Community Leaders Forum as well as an extensive campaign door-knocking thousands of homes, carried out by the Reconstruction Authority.

This feedback has helped the RA to develop a more people-friendly, place-based approach to determine eligibility under the RHP, supporting our most vulnerable homeowners.

It will also achieve better outcomes –reducing the fragmented nature of buybacks in some locations, where single homes may be left in some streetscapes.

Recommendations from the Peer Review of the Resilient Homes Program’s food mapping and methodology also infuenced these enhanced eligibility requirements. The review was completed by a panel of experts.

The original methodology for the Resilient Homes Program prioritised home buybacks for homes at the greatest risk under most future food scenarios.

While the independent review was generally supportive of the prioritisation approach used for the Resilient Homes Program, it made 25 recommendations relating to eligibility, prioritisation, and the

implementation of the program.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority has accepted all the peer review recommendations, and they will also be used for continuous improvement of risk assessment methods used by the NSW Government. The full report detailing their fndings can be found here. To prepare for future disasters the NSW Government has developed Australia’s frst State Disaster Mitigation Plan (SDMP) to help mitigate natural hazards such as foods,

bush fres, storms, cyclones and coastal inundation.

This work will also help inform a Disaster Adaption Plan for the Northern Rivers which is currently under development.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Together, the Resilient Lands Program (RLP) and Resilient Homes Program (RHP) form the largest assisted relocation program in Australia to date.

“The RLP aims to accelerate the delivery of new land and housing

to provide participants of the RHP with more options.

“At Mount Pleasant, purchasing dozens of adjacent lots in an existing development allows the Reconstruction Authority to purpose plan and build the community. The land is ready to go.”

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

“These important initiatives will help reduce the impacts of future fooding and build further resilience in the community. The announcement of a second land release

site shows our ongoing commitment to the region and we will continue to help the Northern Rivers rebuild.

“The Reconstruction Authority will now reach out to Resilient Homes Program participants who have received a buyback offer to confrm their interest in purchasing land and housing made available under the Resilient Lands Program.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery, Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn said:

“It is great to see more land from the Resilient Lands Program come to Goonellabah.

“More land means more homes that are needed to support the community’s recovery.

“I look forward to more projects being announced in our neighbouring local government areas.”

Lismore Mayor Cr Steve Krieg said:

“This is a great announcement and another important step in the right direction for the recovery of our community.

“The partnership between the NSW Government and Lismore City Council continues to be strengthened, providing more housing and more security for our region. “

NEW AND UPGRADED EQUIPMENT FOR NORTH COAST SCHOOLS

Local MP Justine Elliot today announced that North Coast schools are benefting from new or upgraded facilities and equipment, thanks to funding from the Albanese Labor Government.

The projects include:

• Ballina Coast High School - $25,000

• Banora Point Public School - $25,000

• Bhaktivedanta

Swami Gurukula SchoolEungella - $25,000

NOW is the time to buy

From $325,000.

On care services 24/7

• Biala Special School - Ballina - $25,000

• Bilambil Public School - $25,000

• Brunswick Heads Public School - $25,000

• Goonengerry Public School - $25,000

• Hinterland Christian CollegeMullumbimby - $25,000

• Mount St Patrick Primary School –Murwillumbah - $25,000

• Pacifc Coast Christian School – Tweed Heads South - $25,000

• St Anthony’s

Primary School –Kingscliff - $25,000

• St Francis Xavier’s Primary School – Ballina - $25,000

• St James Primary School – Banora Point$25,000

• St John’s Primary School – Mullumbimby$25,000

• St Joseph’s Primary School – South Murwillumbah - $25,000

• St Joseph’s Primary School – Tweed Heads$25,000

• Stokers Siding Public School - $25,000

• Upper Coopers Creek Public School$25,000

This is all part of the Albanese Labor Government’s School Upgrade Fund which has delivered a total of $450,000 in local projects across the North Coast. These projects are helping to build a better and fairer education for students in our community.

“As your strong voice in the Albanese Labor Government, I’m proud to have delivered this important funding for our local schools.

“From new laptops and

air purifers to upgraded outdoor sports equipment, this funding has delivered upgrades to schools that need it the most.

“I want all students to get access to a quality education, including access to great facilities to learn in, and play on.

“The Albanese Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to build a better and fairer education system by investing in our schools and providing safer classrooms, playgrounds, and facilities,” Justine said.

Local MP Justine Elliot

Janelle Saffn MP and Cr Steve Krieg, RLP at Mount Pleasant Estate, Goonellabah

LONG OVERDUE REGIONAL CRIME INQUIRY WELCOME - WILLIAMSON

An inquiry into community safety in regional and rural communities by a NSW Parliamentary Committee has been welcomed by Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson.

Mr Williamson said the announcement by the NSW Labor Government was well overdue after it had previously refused calls to hold an inquiry.

“It is an important step forward in a whole-ofgovernment approach to seeking solutions to tackle the root causes of escalating crime in regional communities like the Richmond and Clarence valleys,” Mr Williamson said.

“The NSW Nationals fought side by side with the Country Mayors Association, the Police Association and NSW Famers calling for an in-depth parliamentary inquiry into the causes

of the spike in crime in regional communities and what was needed to address it.

“I am pleased the Premier and Police Minister have fnally listened so we can get on with the job of seeking solutions to the crime wave impacting regional communities.”

Mr Williamson said the inquiry will be undertaken by the NSW Legislative Assembly on Law and Safety of which his Nationals colleague, the Shadow Minister for Police, Paul Toole is a member.

“I have already spoken to Paul Toole in depth about the impact crime is having on my electorate,” Mr Williamson said.

“I know Paul will advocate very strongly to ensure no stone is left unturned in investigating the drivers of youth crime in all regional communities

and actions that can be taken to improve community safety.

“I will also be writing to the Chair of the Parliamentary Committee, Edmond Atalla, requesting the Committee holds a public hearing in my electorate.

“The Committee wants to hear frst-hand from regional communities and is accepting public submissions until 31 May.

“I encourage local residents, particularly those who have been impacted by crime, to tell their stories by lodging a submission,” Mr Williamson concluded.

To view the inquiry’s terms of reference and make a submission visit https://www.parliament. nsw.gov.au/committees/ inquiries/Pages/inquirydetails.aspx?pk=3042.

Govt funding for fve minor landslips in Byron hinterland

Five minor landslips in the Byron hinterland will be repaired this year, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

The landslips on Main Arm Road (two), Goonengerry Road, The Pocket Road and Left Bank Road, happened during the 2022 foods.

Evan Elford, Council’s Manager Infrastructure Recovery, said the news that the funding

application was successful was very welcome.

“These slips have not resulted in any road closures, but the land is unstable and needs to be fxed to make sure there is no further damage in the future,” Mr Elford said.

“With the Byron Shire sustaining approximately $300 million in damage to roads, bridges and causeways, it is really terrifc to get news that our application for

Gallery’s major art award returns

Entries are now open for the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre’s biennial $30,000 Wollumbin Art Award (WAA).

The award is open to artists living across the Northern Rivers in the areas of Tweed, Byron, Ballina, Kyogle, Scenic Rim Shires, Lismore and Gold Coast City. For the frst time, artists from the Richmond Valley are also eligible. Artists can submit up to 2 entries of any subject matter and medium. Award categories include a frst prize of $15,000 and a 2-week residency in the Gallery’s Nancy Fairfax Artist in Residence Studio; a $10,000 WAA Bundjalung Award for First Nations artists and a solo exhibition in the Gallery, and a $5,000

Emerging Artist Award. Artists aged between 5–18 years can enter the Wollumbin Youth Art Award (WYAA).

The WAA Bundjalung Award for First Nations artists is sponsored by Tweed Regional Gallery Foundation Ltd, and the Emerging Artist Award

is supported by Leanne and Greg Tong-Lyon.

The Wollumbin Youth Art Award is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre Inc.

Entries for both awards open 5 pm

Monday 25 March and close 5 pm, Monday 3 June 2024. The WAA is $35 per entry. Entries for the youth award are free.

For more information, visit gallery.tweed.nsw. gov.au/prizes-awards

funding for these repairs has been accepted and approved,” he said.

The repair to the landslips includes:

• Removal of existing debris and loose material.

• Rebuilding table drains.

• Revegetation of the slopes to prevent further erosion.

Staff will now fnalise design plans for the repairs with the work expected to start in mid-2024.

FIRST PRIZE $15,000 THE BUNDJALUNG ART AWARD $10,000 EMERGING ARTIST AWARD $5,000

ENTRIES NOW OPEN

For Artists living in the Tweed, Ballina, Byron, Kyogle and Scenic Rim Shires, Richmond Valley, Lismore and Gold Coast City.

Entries close 5 pm, Monday 3 June 2024.

To enter visit gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au or use QR code.

2022 WAA winner Amber Wallis receives fowers from then Gallery Director Susi Muddiman OAM, after the offcial announcement from guest judge Alison Kubler. Photo: Jaka Adamic.

The 2022 Wollumbin Art Award exhibtion. Photo: David Toyer.

Two years on Annette has her keepsakes returned

By Samantha Elley

Most people who experienced the loss of personal items in the 2022 food have come to terms with the fact they will never see them again.

Annette Dale of East Wardell was no different.

Her jar of matchbooks that she had been collecting since her twenties was a hobby of hers for forty years.

“My ex-husband and I would travel about to restaurants and nightclubs and I used to collect their matchbooks,” she said.

“I managed to salvage them in the frst food and put them in a shed, but then the second food actually took my water tank.”

The second food also took her collection of matchbooks, still in their jar.

“I hadn’t thought about them until half way through last year,” said Annette.

Fast forward to 2024 and Annette’s daughter

Katelin was scrolling on her social media when she saw a post where a staff member from the Ramada in Ballina was looking for the owner of a jar of matchbooks.

“Spotted foating along the river during the foods. Ramada staff fshed this jar out of the water. We would love to return this item to its owner.”

This was the sign on the jar.

“(Katelin) rang me and said ‘Mum, I have something of yours you lost in the foods’,” said Annette.

“I started crying and she flmed me when I got it back.”

That video was posted on the Wardell CORE Community Organised Resilience Effort page and Annette has been overwhelmed with all the positive comments and good wishes.

“To have my glass jar foat all the way from East Wardell to the Ramada is amazing,” she

said.

Annette said the food waters didn’t affect Wardell until March 1 and she thought she was safe on a mound.

However, when she woke up that morning she realised she was on an island and needed rescuing.

“I got rescued on a jet ski by two (very handsome) men,” she said.

“It was a terrifying experience, it was a leap of faith and I prayed the whole time.”

For the next six months Annette lived with her daughter and son-in-law in Tuckombil until the house was in a decent state to move back into.

Having her long lost collection of match books back has lifted her spirits no end and she visited the Ramada last Friday to meet the staff who saved her keepsakes.

“I am totally grateful to the Ramada staff,” she said.

Amber alert for blue-green algae at Clarrie Hall Dam

Despite the Tweed Shire Council’s recent elevation of the blue-green algae alert for Clarrie Hall

Dam to amber, tap water throughout the Tweed region remains safe for consumption and bathing. The amber alert signifes a potential increase in blue-green algae presence, prompting the Council to advise against recreational activities at the dam.

Brie Jowett, Council’s

Manager of Water and Wastewater Operations, explained that while the dam currently shows signs of algal species capable of producing toxins, the majority of tap water in the Tweed area is sourced from the Tweed River at Bray Park Weir. Even though the dam is experiencing spillage, the fow of the river over the weir remains healthy, reducing the likelihood of an algae alert for the weir at this time.

Furthermore, Council’s stringent water treatment processes effectively eliminate blue-green algae from the water during blooms, ensuring the safety and pleasant taste of tap water.

The alert for blue-green algae at Clarrie Hall Dam has been active since November 30,

2022, initially issued as a green alert. Blue-green algae occurs naturally and proliferates in still or slow-fowing water under warm, sunny conditions with high nutrient levels. Water affected by blue-green algae may exhibit a greenish hue and emit a musty or organic odor.

Tweed tap water remains safe, warning remains for recreation on the dam

Mrs. Jowett emphasized Council’s precautionary approach whenever blue-green algae is detected, advising against recreational activities on the dam and discouraging the consumption of fsh from the dam or untreated water from any source. Warning signs at the dam wall and Crams Farm alert the public to the presence of blue-green algae and associated risks.

Council continues

to conduct biweekly water testing at Clarrie Hall Dam and the Tweed River at Uki to monitor algal blooms, with additional weekly monitoring at other tap water source sites. For the latest updates, residents can visit Council’s website at tweed.nsw.gov.au/ waterandwastewater, and for more information on blue-green algae, they can refer to waternsw. com.au/water-quality/ algae.

By Samantha Elley

There were plenty of wheels and lycra at the beginning of the new section of Rail Trail at Casino on the weekend.

With the opening of the trail, bicycle riders of all ages gathered to mark this special day.

Even man’s best friend

Rail Trail opens at Casino

was accommodated on gophers and in bicycle baskets to enjoy the stretch of trail to Bentley.

Mayor of Richmond Valley, Robert Mustow, greeted those gathered and the offcial ribbon was cut.

“Take time to stop and enjoy the panoramic

views,” Cr Mustow said to the gathered crowd as he talked about travelling on the trail, especially at the notorious Gap, a steep section of the trail.

“To the south Casino township, south west Hogarth Range and Mallanganee Range, to the north, Back Creek and Bungabee

State Forest, north west Bentley and on to Boorabee.

“Today we have excited women, Mrs Keneally and Mrs Digby who are going for a ride.

“Both are 96 years old.”

Both ladies were the frst to cross the ribbon once cut and set the rest

of the riders and walkers on their way.

Sally Gooley of Casino had brought her children, with ages ranging from 6 years down to one year old to ride the trail.

“We all live out here and we’ve been watching it being built for the last however long and they are very excited seeing

the diggers and I think they are excited to fnally be able to ride (the trail),” she said.

When completed, the 132km trail will connect Casino and Bentley, through to Lismore and Eltham, the Byron Shire and then on to the Tweed Valley, fnishing at Murwillumbah.

NSW Sugar Industry Achieves Global Sustainability Re-Certifcation

The need for organisations to address sustainability issues is fast becoming business critical, with consumer demand for more sustainable products growing year on year.

For the past twelve years, the NSW sugar industry has been an active participant in Bonsucro certifcation, the world’s largest voluntary sustainability standard certifer of sugarcane. Bonsucro sets out a defnition of what sustainable sugarcane production should look like, providing a comprehensive metric

tool for sustainable farming and milling.

Under the obligations of the Bonsucro platform, regular audits are undertaken across the farming, milling and refnery operations.

Sunshine Sugar and its growers have just completed another successful series of audits, with all three mills, the refnery and 100 % of growers across the Clarence, Richmond and Tweed being successfully re-certifed.

Sunshine Sugar CEO, Mr Chris Connors said: “Our growers are an integral part of the certifcation process,

Andrew Fischer

being audited for sustainable farming practices, responsible use of chemicals and responsible waste management.”

“Signing up to Bonsucro’s credible, global platform has been a signifcant factor in our successful track record supplying to some of the biggest food and beverage brands across Australia. Our customers appreciate that our sustainability credentials stretch across the supply chain starting right at the source – on farm.”

In their latest report, Bonsucro statistics show that certifed members

continue to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, improve water stewardship and advance human rights in the sector. It also reveals a growing demand with market uptake of certifed products increasing 54% in the trade of certifed sugar.

“To our knowledge, no other sugar industry in the world has 100% participation from its growing, milling and refning operations, making our consistent compliance to the standard such a remarkable effort – one we’re very proud of;” Mr Connors commented.

Council welcomes gazettal of Aboriginal names for Cape Byron and Julian Rocks

Byron Shire Council welcomed the gazettal of dual names for two of Byron Bay’s most famous landmarks last week with Cape Byron to be also known by the traditional Aboriginal name ‘Walgun’ and Julian Rocks to be also known as ‘Nguthungulli’.

“This is such great news and we’d like to recognise and thank National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) who worked closely with Bundjalung of Byron Bay Aboriginal Corporation and the Cape Byron Trust,” Council’s Aboriginal Project Offcer, Rob Appo said.

“To have traditional Aboriginal place names returned to geographic features in the Byron Shire is really positive and acknowledges the ongoing cultural connection to Country and language for Arakwal people,” Mr Appo said.

Walgun means shoulder in the Bundjalung language and the Walgun/Cape Byron area represents a place of spiritual and cultural signifcance, with the area used for important gatherings and ceremonial practices.

Nguthungulli/Julian Rocks is a signifcant

and sacred Aboriginal site associated with a number of Dreaming stories of the Bundjalung of Byron Bay (Arakwal) people and the wider Bundjalung. Among the Bundjalung of Byron Bay (Arakwal) people, the traditional name Nguthungulli is used to

refer to the Father of the World.

“Council looks forward to working with the NPWS on bringing the new dual names into signage to bring about greater awareness and recognition of the cultural signifcance of these landmarks,” Mr Appo said.

Faster recovery funding for disaster-hit communities

The NSW Government has introduced a new, faster funding pathway to make it easier for Northern Rivers communities to rebuild vital roads and transport infrastructure following natural disasters.

The Tripartite Agreement between the NSW Reconstruction Authority, Transport for NSW and seven local councils will ensure a speedier roll out of reconstruction funds after foods, fres or other natural disasters.

Prior to this agreement, councils had to fnance the rebuilding of infrastructure before they could access additional funding from government.

Now, councils can access critical funds upfront at each stage of reconstruction, easing fnancial burdens and

making it easier to undertake reconstruction work more quickly.

The councils taking part are:

• Ballina Shire Council

• Byron Shire Council

• Clarence Valley Council

• Kyogle Council

• Lismore City Council

• Richmond Valley Council

• Tweed Shire Council

The NSW Reconstruction Authority and Transport for NSW are now developing supporting documentation, administrative arrangements and some initial training to implement the agreement with the councils.

NSW Premier Chris

Minns said:

“What we are doing through this agreement is providing certainty that these councils will receive the money when they need it.

“The agreement will accelerate reconstruction works and allow funds to fow quicker for future events.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“This agreement will help communities recover faster by giving councils access to the funds they need to get vital recovery work underway.

“Getting critical infrastructure rebuilt and in place to support the recovery effort as soon as possible is precisely what this agreement will facilitate.”

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

“The damage after foods, fre or any natural disaster can be signifcant, and this initiative will help speed up the restoration of essential road and transport infrastructure.

“The agreement is a clear demonstration of our proactive approach to helping councils get on with the job after natural disasters and build in greater resilience to future events.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

Jenny Aitchison said:

“The deeds between councils and the NSW Government have been signed, and funding will soon start to fow, relieving the cashfow impacts on food affected councils.

“Quickly restoring our roads and transport infrastructure is vital to setting up the regions for

recovery from the foods. “I have been personally meeting with these councils, alongside the Reconstruction Authority and Transport for NSW to help resolve their issues, and I am pleased this will see the quicker restoration of essential roads and transport infrastructure in Northern NSW.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn said:

“One of the lessons learned from the devastating foods of 2022 is that councils need an injection of funds immediately after a food event so they can get to work straight away and get communities functioning again.

Lismore City Council Mayor Steve Krieg said:

“This is the most signifcant day in the rebuild and recovery of the Lismore LGA. It’s taken 18 months to get here but now this agreement is signed, all residents of the Northern Rivers should see signifcant progress toward food restoration works being completed.

“Thank you to the NSW Government and all stakeholders for getting this across the line, it’s been a mammoth effort and will give a real boost to the recovery of our impacted communities.”

“This new approach is designed to get the money fowing to councils quicker, so they can get on with the work that needs to be done, fxing roads and bridges and essential public buildings and facilities.”

FITNESS KIDZ WINNER of SIX AWARDS AT NATIONAL AWARDS NIGHT!!

Fitness Kidz from Lismore has been recognised as a SIX TIME WINNER in the prestigious What’s On 4 Kids Awards.

These industry awards have been operating for more than 10 years and are presented by Australia’s leading “What’s On 4 Kids” business www. whatson4kids.com.au.

The awards celebrate and showcase the outstanding hard work, determination and achievements of hundreds of small businesses across Australia and this year was dedicated to local businesses being celebrated in their own state with a national fnal held on March 9th. All entrants are passionate about giving children a strong foundation in activities such as sport, music and arts.

Community votes and

an independent judging process were both used through the process meaning all winners were determined based on merit and community support.

Fitness Kidz owner Brad Hicks says he is absolutely delighted to walk away with six national awards:

• Best National Independent

Activity/ Class for 3-5 & 5-12 Years (PEOPLE’S CHOICE)

• Best National School Holiday Activity (PEOPLE’S CHOICE)

• Best National Kids Party Entertainer (5 years in a row, JUDGED WINNER)

• Best National

Kids Party/ Live Entertainer INDUSTRY LEADER of the Year (JUDGED WINNER)

• National Hall of Fame (PEOPLE’S CHOICE)

The fact that we’re based in the rural community of the Northern Rivers makes

these wins even more special! Fitness Kidz is adored by thousands of children & families and we thank you all for the support!

Winning these nationally recognised awards really helps put us on the map and with our exciting announcement of franchising Fitness Kidz all over Australia,

we’re looking forward to growing & offering our services to more children & locations!

The What’s On 4 Kids Awards are made up of various categories each representing particular areas of business including Best School Aged Activity, Best Kids Party Entertainer and Best Parent and Child Activity.

“The What’s On 4 Kids Awards are all about recognising excellence, passion and commitment by the kids activity industry in Australia and each year I am blown away by the standard of applications. Entrants in this year’s National fnal have exceeded our expectations by showing just how valued and sought after these award winning titles are for the industry” said What’s On 4 Kids Owner, Amy Sales.

It’s offcial: The Tweed’s tourism marketing is Australia’s best

The Tweed region proudly celebrates its outstanding achievements at the Australian Tourism Awards, held in Darwin on March 15th. Among the accolades received:

GOLD: The Tweed Tourism Company for Tourism Marketing & Campaigns.

SILVER: Potager - A Kitchen Garden for Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services.

FINALIST: Husk Farm Distillery for Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries.

The GOLD win for Tourism Marketing & Campaigns by The Tweed Tourism Company marks a signifcant triumph amidst a competitive national landscape.

Recognized as Australia’s best tourism marketing for 2023, the Tweed campaign surpassed notable contenders such as Rockhampton,

Queensland (Silver) and Mandurah, Western Australia (Bronze). This achievement underscores the region’s innovative marketing strategies and resilience in the face of challenges.

The winning campaign by The Tweed Tourism Company was part of a comprehensive Covid recovery strategy, showcasing initiatives like the promotion of the new Northern

Rivers Rail Trail, a Slow Road to Tyalgum drive campaign, hosting the Australian Society of Travel Writer’s Convention, and Australia’s frst Wellness Tourism Summit. Aligned with Tourism Australia’s THRIVE 2030 objectives, which aim to restore domestic visitation to pre-COVID levels by 2024, the campaign also included collaborative efforts with

Destination NSW under its Feel New brand.

Potager - A Kitchen Garden’s SILVER award in the Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services category further highlights the region’s culinary excellence.

Similarly, Husk Farm Distillery’s recognition as a FINALIST in the Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries category underscores the diversity and quality

of the Tweed’s tourism offerings.

At a state level, the Tweed emerged as the most awarded region outside of Sydney, with notable achievements in various categories. These remarkable results refect the dedication, creativity, and resilience of the Tweed’s tourism industry and its commitment to delivering exceptional visitor experiences.

Sally Scott, General

Manager of The Tweed Tourism Company, expressed immense pride in the region’s achievements, attributing them to the collective efforts of local tourism operators and the strong partnership with Tweed Shire Council. Mayor Chris Cherry echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the proactive response of the Tweed’s tourism industry in navigating challenges and supporting community recovery.

Managed by the Australian Tourism Industry Council, the Australian Tourism Awards serve as a platform to celebrate excellence in customer service, innovation, and resilience across the tourism sector. The Tweed’s success underscores its position as a leading tourism destination in Australia, showcasing its vibrant offerings and unwavering commitment to excellence.

The Tweed rules! Award winners at the prestigious 2024 Australian Tourism Awards held in Darwin on Friday 15 March are from left: Greer Zinker (TTC), Steve Cox (Destination NSW), Sally Hinton (TTC), Pete Burr (Potager) and Harriet Messenger (Husk Distillers).

Samantha’s Book

Renowned lighthouse engineer rekindles the spirit of Coffs Harbour

Hats off to a strong woman

Title: The Milliner of Bendigo

Author: Darry Fraser

Price: $26.99

Publisher:

HarperCollins

Australia

By Samantha Elley

Amidst a studio of silk, ta eta, straw and feathers, Evie Emerson creates her amazing and fashionable hats for the clientele of Bendigo. A beautiful piece of headwear is an important statement in 1898.

Unfortunately, she has caught the eye of an unscrupulous type who coerces her into an engagement she never agreed to. In trouble with the law for breaking a so-called contract and a sister who has not replied to any of her letters, Evie nds her life thrown into turmoil.

In another town, Evie’s

In a triumphant moment for the City of Coffs Harbour Council, the historic South Solitary Island Lighthouse Optic has been welcomed back with luminous splendour at the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshores, igniting the night sky once more.

Mayor Paul Amos expressed his delight at the optic’s new home within a specially crafted enclosure at the entrance to the jetty pier, deeming it the ideal location for this cherished heritage artifact. “This light fnds its perfect place here, continuing to serve as a beacon and a gathering point,” remarked Mayor Amos. “For many, it symbolizes the heart of our community.”

The restoration of the

light to its former glory has been nothing short of a labour of love and dedication, following its decommissioning in 1975 and subsequent relocation from the island to the mainland. Crafted by Chance Brothers in Smethwick, England, this extraordinary piece stands as the sole complete First Order eight-panel lens in Australia, one of just four such marvels supplied to the country.

Former regional lighthouse engineer, Jack Duvoisin, played a pivotal role in the rekindling of the optic’s brilliance, issuing the order to relight it—144 years to the day since he frst extinguished

its glow on the island, marking the station’s transition to full automation. Addressing the gathered crowd, Duvoisin hailed the optic as a beacon of excellence, proudly declaring it one of the nation’s premier displays of lighthouse equipment.

The endeavour to restore the light to its operational status and showcase it to the public was made possible through joint funding efforts from both the Council and the NSW Government. “After nearly half a century of slumber,” remarked Mr. Duvoisin, “this light is once again ablaze, a testament to our commitment to preserving our maritime heritage.”

Karlene McKeown, Council Events, Sport, and Cultural Services Group Leader, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the optic’s signifcance within the Yarrila Arts and Museum Collection. “It holds a special place in the hearts of our community,” she affrmed.

As the South Solitary Island Lighthouse Optic resumes its luminous duty, it not only illuminates the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshores but also serves as a poignant reminder of the region’s rich maritime history and enduring community spirit.

old friends: journalist, Fitzmorgan O’Shea and wheelwright, Ra erty Dolan, have problems of their own with the actions of a crooked policeman and his quest for revenge. e three of them meet up again in the most dramatic and life-threatening of circumstances with the might Murray as their backdrop. It is there that misunderstandings and secrets come to light between the three friends.

Darry Fraser is a well-known Australian author who lives on Kangaroo Island, where she creates and writes her amazing stories set in times past. Her other books include e Last Truehart, e Prodigal Sister, e Forthright Woman and Elsa Goody Bushranger.

You can order your copy of e Milliner of Bendigo from https:// www.goodreads. com/en/book/ show/171090028

Have your say on the future of Byron Shire

The Byron Shire community is encouraged to participate in a thorough review of the Byron Shire Community Strategic Plan (CSP) 2032. This pivotal document outlines the community’s priorities, aspirations, and overarching vision, thereby informing Council’s key plans and strategies for the upcoming decade.

As a community-driven plan, the CSP serves as a roadmap for shaping the future of Byron Shire, catering to the needs and desires of those who reside, work, and engage in activities within the area. Addressing four fundamental questions,

namely: “Where are we now?”, “Where do we want to be in ten years’ time?”, “How will we get there?”, and “How will we know when we have arrived?”, the CSP encapsulates the collective aspirations of the community.

In light of recent events impacting the community, there is a pressing need to reassess the CSP’s alignment with current community visions and aspirations. Esmeralda Davis, Director of Corporate and Community Services, emphasizes the importance of this review, stating, “Events over the last two years have had a lasting impact

on our community, and we are eager to check in again to ensure the CSP still refects what the community envisions for the next ten years.”

While Council holds a custodial role in preparing the plan, it’s essential to recognize that the identifed aspirations may not solely fall under Council’s jurisdiction. Collaborative efforts involving various partners, including state agencies and community groups, are instrumental in realizing the long-term objectives outlined in the Plan.

Ms. Davis underscores the signifcance of community feedback,

noting that it will directly shape the CSP and guide decisions and actions toward desired outcomes. To facilitate community engagement, various avenues, including an online survey and market stalls, will be available for individuals to share their perspectives and contribute to the plan’s evolution.

Individuals interested in providing feedback can access the online survey through the Your Say section of Council’s website. Additional information regarding the CSP review process will also be made available through Council channels.

2024

NEW ZEALAND SOUTH ISLAND GARDENS GROUP TOUR

Departure Date: 19 November 2024

$7,850 per person

Single Supplement - $1,650

This 12 day South Island tour will have you enjoying all the best that the South Island has to offer. The must do and see things when visiting the South Island are all included and then some more on this fantastic tour. Sit back and travel in comfort, everything taken care of with this small group.

ONLY 14 Spaces are available on this tour!

Price Includes:

• Home pick up and drop-off from the Northern Rivers

• Return airfares from including taxes

• 11 Nights quality accommodation with breakfast daily

• 7 dinners including TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Walter Peak Evening Dining

• Visit the spectacular Fox Glacier

• Visit Larnach Castle & Gardens and cruise Milford Sound

• TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Walter Peak Evening Dining

• TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Greymouth

• Air conditioned buses throughout All sightseeing entry fees per itinerary

Address:

Telephone: 02 6662 6255

Email:

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

‘MUM JANE’ & ‘LEEMO’ have DELUSIONS

I heard ‘Mum Jane’ say on the phone yesterday “YEP, I’m a ‘Baby’ Boomer as well.” Crikey, she’s delusional; she thinks she’s a wee Kangaroo! Her condition is more critical than I had believed. (It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ here!) Let’s face it, one PROPER (with her glasses on) look at herself in a mirror should tell her that she DOES NOT have a big strong thumping tail on her rear end.

NOR can she hop, or even box. Her face, hair & body should indicate to her quite clearly she is a 74 year old human female with many wrinkles & frizzy greying hair. Yep, she does get a few whiskers but not cute ones like a kangaroo; nor can she make barking & grunt sounds, although she DOES frequently make grumpy growls like kangaroos can; her ears are on the side of her face NOT on top of her head. OMG, what a dilemma. How should I address this most delicate state of a airs? I feel an episode of deep relaxing meditation on the grass, paws in air & many deep breaths with orrrrmmm purrs might assist in my approach. SO, that’s what I did. On coming out of my calm meditative state, I felt con dent, and ready to talk frankly with Mum about her ‘state of mind.’ Being forwardthinking, I made her a cup of tea with 3 gingernut bikkies. I told her to have a rest from making Rhubarb jam and come sit & relax with me. I believe she was touched & thanked me for my solicitous suggestion. She sat

down with a creaky groan so I jumped right in with ‘Mum, why do you think you’re a baby kangaroo? Are you taking hallucinatory drugs or having too many glasses of wine in the evening? You CAN fess up to me Mum; I’ll get help for you.’ On ruminating back to that exact moment in my 9 cat lives, I believe the look on Mums face should have told me to run for the highest hideaway in the world & set up a permanent camp. But no, being fearless, I stood my ground and awaited the response my astute brain told me might erupt. ARRGH! ‘Leemo, what the hell are you on about you ridiculous cat? Well? WHY would YOU THINK that I THINK

I am a baby kangaroo pray tell?’ Wheww, this is easy! ‘Well Mum, I heard you on the phone saying YOU WERE A BABY BOOMER. Well, I hate to tell you this Mum but a ‘Boomer’ is actually the name given to a large mature MALE kangaroo, specially the Eastern Grey & Forester species; you are neither ‘cos you can’t even hop, so why say it? Crikey. Her countenance was awful; I was told to shut-up & listen! (how rude!) ‘Leems, FYI the name ‘Baby Boomer’ also relates to people who, now, in 2024, are now aged between 60 & 78 years of age. When the Soldiers came home from World War II, there was an unprecedented postwar spike in birth rates between 1946 to 1964. I was one of those births. In other words, ‘a boom’ of babies occurred. Gottit?’ Hmmm? I bravely ventured a question kinda knowing my life was ‘probly on the line. ‘Mum, what did the Soldiers coming home have to do with this boom of babies? Please explain? ‘Did they kidnap and bring many babies home with them or what?’ Mum took deep breaths. ‘Leems, I am NOT discussing with you about how babies come to be AGAIN; we’ve HAD that talk. Go climb a tree, stare at grass, just go away.’

Crikey, I’m outta here. Nitey with a ‘half’ & deluded purrsie. Leemo.

Tweed Shire Council Throws Full Support Behind Fire Ant Eradication Efforts

Tweed Shire Council is rallying behind a crucial initiative to eliminate fre ants from the Tweed region, urging landowners to grant consent for treatment on their properties.

The National Fire Ant Eradication Program (NFAEP) is gearing up for extensive aerial treatment across targeted areas in Murwillumbah, with the aim of accessing 100% of properties to ensure successful eradication.

Scheduled to commence within days, weather permitting, the aerial program will deploy helicopters to administer eradication treatment on larger land parcels where consent has been obtained from landowners. This effort will complement ground-based eradication activities already underway on smaller

residential properties in Murwillumbah.

It’s essential to note that no treatment, whether aerial or groundbased, can proceed without the explicit consent of property owners.

Mayor of Tweed Shire, Chris Cherry, stressed the importance of community support for the fre ant treatment conducted by the NFAEP in collaboration with the NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI). “We must unite behind the efforts of the National Fire Ant Eradication Program to safeguard our community, agriculture sector, and local businesses from the irreversible damage caused by fre ants,” Mayor Cherry emphasized.

Local cane grower David Bartlett, who

chairs Council’s Rural Land Industry Management Committee and whose property falls within the targeted eradication zone, echoed Mayor Cherry’s sentiments. “As a community, it’s imperative that we take every possible measure to prevent the spread of fre ants in the Tweed,” Bartlett affrmed. He emphasized the need for community participation in the baiting program to mitigate the potential impact on the environment, farming businesses, and public health.

Eli Szandala, Sustainable Agriculture Program Leader at Council, underscored the urgency of the situation and highlighted the importance of adhering to movement requirements for materials such as soil,

turf, plants, baled hay, and mulch from areas affected by fre ants.

The Rural Land Industry Management Committee (RLIMC) recently convened with representatives from the NFAEP and NSW DPI to receive updates on the fre ant infestation detected at South Murwillumbah in November last year.

For comprehensive information about the fre ant treatment program and movement requirements in Murwillumbah, Piggabeen, and Cobaki, as well as guidance on identifying and reporting suspected fre ant sightings, visit freants.org.au/southmurwillumbah-fre-antdetection and dpi.nsw. gov.au/rifa, respectively.

Aerial treatment of fre ants being undertaken by the National Fire Ant Eradication Program on a property in south-east Queensland. The helicopters will be in the air around Murwillumbah in coming days, weather permitting.

An information hub has been set up outside Murwillumbah Civic Centre to answer any questions about fre ant treatment.

David Bartlett, Graeme Dudgeon and Mayor Chris Cherry urge landowners to allow fre ant treatment on their properties.

Embark on a Bilby Discovery Adventure this Easter in Lismore

Lismore City Council is thrilled to unveil an exciting Easter celebration: the Bilby Discovery Adventure, inviting families to embark on a delightful journey flled with fun and prizes.

Leading up to Easter, hidden Bilbies await discovery in local shop windows, offering an engaging and educational experience for children and their families across Lismore, East Lismore, South Lismore, North Lismore, and Goonellabah.

Participants are encouraged to seek out 10 hidden Bilbies, each accompanied by fascinating facts about these adorable creatures.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg expressed his enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the ease of participation and the enticing prizes on offer.

“Lismore City Council is excited to offer

this interactive and educational activity to our community, providing a wonderful opportunity to explore Lismore, learn about wildlife, and celebrate the Easter season together,” Mayor Krieg remarked.

“By completing the Bilby Discovery Easter Activity sheet, adventurers can have fun while also having the chance to win fantastic prizes from our local shops and library branches. It’s as simple as fnding all 10 adorable Bilbies and returning the completed sheet by Wednesday, April 3rd, to claim your prize.”

To kickstart the adventure, participants can collect the Bilby Discovery Easter Activity booklet from any of the local library locations, including the Lismore Children’s Library at Lismore Central Shopping Centre, the Lismore

Pop-Up Library at 146 Molesworth Street, and the Goonellabah Library at 27 Oliver Avenue.

Lismore City Council

CBD Activation

Offcer Kathryn Gray emphasized the collaborative effort behind the project, highlighting the positive involvement of local businesses and the Lismore Library.

“Lismore businesses have warmly embraced the Easter Bilbies, participating across our local business centres.

It’s been a joy to collaborate with Lismore Library, which provided research on facts and created the activity sheets,” Gray noted.

“It’s a delightful experience to discover the Bilbies hidden among the treasures and treats offered in different stores while enjoying quality time engaging in kid’s activities, shopping, and dining here in Lismore.”

Once all 10 Bilbies have been found, adventurers can return completed sheets to any of the three Library locations or at a participating business drop-off outlet to claim their prizes.

For more information on participating business outlets or

details about the Bilby Discovery Adventure and other unique events and activities in Lismore for March, visit www. visitlismore.com.au

A Bilby resting in one of the many Lismore businesses participating in the Bilby Discovery Adventure.

The full sweep of history...by

Nigel Dawe

AS far back as I can recall, history in all its fractal-myriad accumulation of detail and determining jetsam, has been something ever-present for me, a constant, if not an absolute essential – like my next drawn breath. It is alive for me, in such a way that has allowed me, without fail, to see beyond my here and now.

The Dutch historian Johan Huizinga once very perceptively said, “No other discipline has its portals so wide open to the general public as history.” Thus implying that the view history affords anyone that bothers to ‘take a look’ is never pointless or unproductive; to those with even the most fedgling attributes of refection, it provides clear glimpses and potential clues to the solution of everything imaginable.

If only the notions of American Henry Glassie were more widely adopted, “History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view, to be useful to the modern traveller.” Which encapsulates the value, or beneft of going out of our way to acquire an understanding of history. What it has to teach, when it is objectively taught, is more useful and instructive than any other body of knowledge accumulated by us easily misled creatures, who are capable of such behavioural extremes –both good and diabolical.

In the very least, little has changed, in terms of how an appreciation of history can inform and raise our sense of life and learning, since the ancient Roman Cicero made note, “To be ignorant of what occurred before you were

Lismore’s Revitalization: Converge Brings Creative Spark

born is to remain always a child. For what is the worth of human life, unless it is woven into the life of our ancestors by the records of history?” Which explains a lot, particularly the infantile energy those with no knowledge of history bring to any discussion that requires such a thing – as a bare minimum – to move forward.

Not that history is clear cut, transparent, or even accurate, often it is tinged with more than a skerrick of agenda, cultural ignorance, pig-headedness and hidden bias. Relatedly, Julian Barnes once rather tongue in cheek suggested, “History is that certainty produced at the point where the imperfections of memory meet the inadequacies of documentation.” For all that is recorded, salvaged or known of former times, the bulk of it is lost forever, and by degrees it is directly replaced by a tirade of events that emerge in such quick succession, as to render sincere refection impossible.

Intriguingly, the East German playwright, Bertolt Brecht once shone a rather telling light on what typically draws our historical ‘interest’, by saying, “The human race tends to remember the abuses to which it has been subjected rather than the endearments. What’s left of kisses?

Wounds, however, leave scars.” For history, like the future itself, is not all doom and gloom, it is not the exclusive province of tyrants and warped sycophants, but it is equally the domain of loving, balanced and brutally honest individuals, that simply desire, to make this world a better place.

Lismore City Council and the NSW Reconstruction Authority are excited to introduce the innovative Converge program, a dynamic initiative aimed at injecting creative energy into Lismore’s CBD.

Local artists, musicians, performers, and creatives are encouraged to submit their expressions of interest for a unique opportunity to utilize dedicated working spaces for developing projects in the heart of Lismore.

As a pivotal part of disaster recovery efforts, Converge is strategically designed to rejuvenate Lismore’s

CBD, underscoring the council’s commitment to fostering the arts and promoting economic development within our vibrant community.

Successful applicants will beneft from a range of professional development opportunities, entrepreneurial support, community engagement, and platforms to showcase their work directly to the public.

Building on the success of the Lismore Art in the Heart program, Converge aims to activate and enliven CBD spaces with an artistic and entrepreneurial spirit, ultimately driving

positive economic outcomes for the local economy.

Mayor Steve Krieg emphasized the signifcance of Converge in harnessing the economic and cultural potential of Lismore’s creative community. He highlighted the program’s role in fostering community connection and supporting Lismore’s thriving arts and culture scene.

Tina Irish, Lismore City Council’s Destination and Economy Manager, highlighted Converge’s role in revitalizing the CBD and nurturing local creative enterprise.

She emphasized the program’s contribution to Lismore’s identity as a dynamic cultural hub and its commitment to empowering local artists and entrepreneurs.

Successful applicants will have access to the Converge residency space in the Lismore CBD from mid-May to late December 2024.

Expressions of interest for Converge are open until the end of business on Monday, 15 April and can be submitted online at https://yoursay. lismore.nsw.gov.au/ converge.

MORE THAN HALF A MILLION DOLLARS IN FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR NORTHERN RIVERS COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS

Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation’s frst funding round for 2024 opens tomorrow, Tuesday 19 March, with more than $500,000 available for local community groups and charities with new and existing projects.

Applications will close on 16 April.

To support potential applicants with the application process, the Charitable Foundation is hosting a free, online workshop on Wednesday,

20 March at 10:30am (AEST). Groups can register here: https:// events.humanitix.com/ community-grantsworkshop-or-newcastlepermanent-charitablefoundation

Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation Partnership Specialist, Lanah Maruff, said the workshop is open to all, and is designed to build capacity and understanding of the grant funding model.

“Our workshops

are open to anyone interested in learning about our application process and ways to improve their approach to grant writing. Whether it’s with us, or another funder, we aim to support organisations in putting their best foot forward,” Ms Maruff said.

“We are looking for partners and projects that take a new, collaborative and inclusive approach to solving problems in the Northern Rivers

community.

“We are also excited by projects that demonstrate genuine collaboration between organisations of all shapes and sizes with a shared commitment to address disadvantage for people in their communities.

“Our regional communities continue to face big challenges and we want to ensure our funds go to where they will have the biggest impact. We encourage submissions from

eligible organisations who can demonstrate an enduring community beneft for those who need it most.”

Applications can be submitted via the Charitable Foundation website and close at 11:59pm on Tuesday 16 April.

Eligibility information

To be eligible for funding, a group must be endorsed by the Australian Taxation Offce as a Type 1 Deductible Gift

Recipient and hold Tax Concession Charity status, be registered with the Australian Charities and Not-ForProft Commission, and be a not-for-proft organisation which is charitable at law, and a legal entity such as an incorporate association of corporation. Groups are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria available at www. newcastlepermanent. com.au/funding-guide

JOINT EFFORTS DRIVE NEW ENGLAND RAIL TRAIL PROJECT FORWARD

Following a pivotal meeting at Parliament House on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, Glen

Innes Severn Council and Armidale Regional Council have received clarity to move forward with the New England Rail Trail project.

Representatives from both councils engaged in discussions with key state offcials, including the Premier, the Treasurer, and the Minister for Regional Transport, reaffrming their commitment to repurpose the disused rail corridor for community beneft.

The outcome of the meeting clarifed that there are no immediate plans to revive rail infrastructure in the region. This clarity allows both councils

to focus their efforts on advancing the New England Rail Trail project.

Glen Innes Severn

Council Mayor Rob Banham emphasized the signifcant opportunity the New England Rail Trail represents for the

region. “The clarity provided in the meeting enables us to proceed with confdence in delivering the New

England Rail Trail,” said Cr Banham. “We appreciate the support from state authorities and look forward to

working closely with them to expedite the implementation of the rail trail, offering recreational opportunities and economic benefts for our residents.”

The primary outcome of these discussions was the affrmation that there is no intention or expectation for the return of rail infrastructure in the region. Instead, the focus was on advancing collaborative efforts between local councils and state authorities to expedite the implementation of the New England Rail Trail project.

With clear support from state authorities, both councils are enthusiastic about the opportunities this project presents and are dedicated to its successful completion.

NPCF Director Ashley Gordon, Coolamon Community’s Pamela Brook and Evie Wood, NPCF Director Paul Juergens Recipients

EASTER CHURCH SERVICES FEATURE

2024 EASTER MASS AND LITURGY TIMES

ST FRANCIS XAVIER CATHOLIC PARISH, BALLINA

HOLY THURSDAY ~ 28th March

Mass ~ 6.00 pm ~ Ballina

Adoration ~ 7.30 pm ~ Ballina

GOOD FRIDAY ~ 29th March

Celebration of the Lord’s Passion 3.00 pm ~ Ballina 3.00 pm ~ Holy Family Church Lennox Head

HOLY SATURDAY (Easter Vigil) ~ 30th March

Vigil Mass ~ 6.00 pm ~ Ballina

EASTER SUNDAY MASSES ~ 31st March

7.30 am ~ Lennox Head 9.00 am ~ Ballina 11.00am ~ Ballina

RECONCILIATION ~ Ballina

Every Saturday 9.00 am – 10.00 am

Phn: 6686 1048

email: admin@sfxballina.org.au

Website: www.sfxballina.org.au

Community Recycling Centres

The right place for your problem waste

Lismore City Council adopts plan to drive tourism

In a strategic initiative aimed at fortifying Lismore’s visitor economy, the Lismore City Council has given the green light to an ambitious roadmap designed to propel the region towards tourism growth.

The Lismore Destination Management Plan (DMP), formally endorsed during the recent Council session, underscores the city’s commitment to leveraging its cultural, economic, and social potential through tourism.

Mayor Steve Krieg of Lismore City underscored the plan’s pivotal role in guiding Lismore, Nimbin, and neighboring villages towards becoming the quintessential alternative and regenerative tourism destination along the NSW North Coast.

“With a clear vision in mind, we are now poised to undertake the necessary steps to welcome travelers seeking active, creative, and sustainable lifestyle experiences, all while showcasing our region’s natural splendor and vibrant cultural fabric,” he stated.

unique local community provide a solid foundation for enriching visitor experiences.”

Nicole Linder, recipient of the NSW Tourism Gold Award and owner of the Eco Star-accredited accommodation provider Contained in Nimbin, lauded the inclusive approach to plan development, emphasizing the identifcation of the region’s alternative lifestyle and cultural diversity in an authentic and focused manner.

“Environmentally conscious travel is a rapidly growing segment, and Lismore, Nimbin, and our villages are ideally positioned to attract these travellers and curate the experiences they seek,” she remarked.

Echoing this sentiment, Helene Collard, local business proprietor and wellness provider at the Yemaya Centre for Reiki & Well-being, hailed the DMP as a beacon of hope for Lismore’s recovery, citing its focus on wellness and relaxation amidst the region’s scenic landscapes.

Looking ahead, Karen Hirst, Lismore City Council’s Destination Coordinator, stressed the signifcance of collaborative efforts in both constructing and implementing the plan. “We are all stewards of this essential planning tool, and its successful execution will necessitate a collective endeavor. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with local tourism operators to build upon our region’s existing strengths while developing tourism offerings that promise visitor experiences unlike any other,” she affrmed.

The Lismore DMP seeks to optimize the benefts of tourism for the region, safeguarding and enhancing its natural and cultural assets for the local communities and businesses of Lismore, Nimbin, and Villages. Crucially, it aligns seamlessly with broader strategic frameworks such as the North Coast NSW Destination Management Plan 2030 and the state’s Visitor Economy Strategy 2030, underscoring its pivotal role in propelling regional development.

There

“Our area boasts lush hinterland landscapes, fanked by UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests and National Parks. Additionally, our diverse creative arts culture and

“It celebrates our region as an appealing destination for rest and rejuvenation, surrounded by nature and offering numerous wellbeing and wellness experiences throughout our towns and villages,” she noted.

To access the Lismore Destination Management Plan, interested parties can visit www.lismore.nsw. gov.au and utilise the search bar to locate the document.

The magical Protesters Falls. Picture: Sera Wright

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

WARWICK

MC DOUGALL & SONS

LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK & DISTRICT WEEK ENDING 22/03/2024

Cattle numbers were slightly down from last week, the prices were still on par with other selling centres, the trend is for the markets to fall as we move into the shorter weeks for processors and as the weather still doesn’t want to favour the producers in many of our production areas. Sheep and Lamb numbers were up as the dry and the volume of stock available increases.

Vealer steers av 262.2c/kg topping at 338.2c/kg or $624.09 to $984.62

Vealer heifers av 231.2c/kg topping at 300c/kg or $457.23 to $877.50

Feeder steers av 300.2c/kg topping at 338.2c/kg or $1159.97 to $1632.65

Feeder heifers av 221.9c/kg topping at 296.2c/kg or $740.54 to $1183.00

Yearling steers av 317.5c/kg topping at 398.2c/kg or $943.30 to $1754.03

Yearling heifers av 231c/kg topping at 340.2c/kg or $681.45 to $1401.54

Steers av 263c/kg topping at 290c/kg or $1703.26 to $2185.83

Heifers av 227.3c/kg topping at 316.2c/kg or $1045.00 to $1624.83

Manufacturing steers av and made $810.48/head

Cows av 189.2c/kg topping at 228.2c/kg or $993.72 to $1706.25

Bulls av 214.4c/kg topping at 266.2c/kg or $905.01 to $2185.82

Lamb and Sheep numbers increased to 2677 head from last week, the market is still steady as numbers and quality vary for stock presented.

Lambs topped at $180 to av $102.88 a drop of $7/head

Hoggets topped at $156 to av $80.93 a drop of $6/head

Ewes topped at $76 to av $45.39 level with last week

Wethers topped at $86 to av $56.39 a drop of $18/head

Rams topped at $120 to av $70.82 a rise of $12/head

Lamb rams topped at $158 to av $75.84 a rise of $8/head

Ewe lambs topped at $137 to av $131.63 a drop of $14/ head

Sale total av was $92.21/head a drop of $1/head

Pork sales were up in numbers with Sows selling from $98 to $300, Sow and litters selling from $225 to $410, Boars sold from $75 to $135, Gilts sold to $185, Baconers sold to $230, Pork sold from $190 to $235, Stores sold from $54 to $172

Bantams sold to $25, Pullets to $30, Chickens to $30, Roosters to $17.50, Hens to $32.50, Trio of Silkys sold to $37.50, Bantam Pullets sold to $27.50, Ducklings sold to $15, Hen & chicks sold to $40, Peacocks sold to $50, Pea hen sold to $40, Drakes sold to $30

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

Agents yarded a total of 2677 head for the weekly sale, slightly larger than as drawn for. The market was a shade easier for most descriptions with the heavy and trade weight fnished lambs feeling the least of the fall. The numbers swelled as we move towards winter and the lack of moisture falls from the sky. Some of the Western and Traprock areas are also feeling the impact of the dry spell. The ratio of lambs to mutton maintained the 75/25 spread, with a few more better mutton types available today.

Lambs topped at $180 to av $102.88($7/head down), hoggets topped at $156 to av $80.93 ($6/head down), Ewes topped at $76 to av $45.39 ($ par ), Wethers topped at $86 to av $56.39 ($18/head down), Rams topped at $120 to av $70.82 ($12 up ), Lamb rams topped at $158 to av $75.84 ($8/head up), ewe lambs topped at $137 to av $131.63 ($14/head down). The sale av was $92.21 a drop of $1/head overall.

Campbell Family sold Dorper lambs 53.2kg to Eversons for $143, 47.9kg to GR Prime for $138

Harry Crawford sold Aussie White x lambs 48.3kg to Warwick Meats for $142, 38kg to Mc Intyre Meats for $71, 59.3kg hoggets to Warwick Meats for $90

Winston Mc Namara sold Xbred lambs 60.5kg to Eversons for $159, 53.9kg to Eversons for $138

Garry Wilson sold Dorper lambs 46.5kg to Eversons for $130, 40kg to Hurley & Weiss for $80

Woodleigh Keetah P/S sold Dorper x lambs 48.1kg to Eversons for $130, 41.8kg to Mc Intyre Meats for $90

Sloan F/T sold Dorper lambs 33.7kg to restockers for $71 Melissa Ramsay sold Babydoll ram lambs 57.5kg to restockers for $158, ewes to restockers for $60 and a ram for $54

Geoff & Andrea Fearby sold Merino wethers 6 months skin to Thomas Foods for $54, Eversons for $37, Ewes to Eversons for $31

Larry & Shirley Hill sold cfa Dorper ewes to Thomas Foods for $45

Pikedale Past Co sold Dorper x lambs 43.3kg to restockers for $100, 43.3 kg to restockers for $84, 39.8kg to Hurley & Weiss for $66, 36 and 34.5kg to restockers for $81 and $71, hoggets 44kg to Eversons for $60, 38.5kg to Mc Intyre Meats for $54

Hurley & Weiss sold Dorper lambs 55kg to Thomas Foods for $155, ram lambs 45kg to Eversons for $89

Weekly Australian Climate, Water and Agricultural Update

Summary of key issues

• In the week ending 20 March 2024, the monsoon lows generated rain and storms in the tropics extending to central Western Australia and far-north Queensland.

Tropical Cyclone Megan generated higher than anticipated rainfall in the north, reaching 300 millimetres in some areas.

o Across cropping regions, New South Wales recorded up to 100 millimetres of rainfall, while up to 25 millimetres was recorded in Victoria, South Australia and Northern Queensland. Minimal rainfall occurred in Western Australia with cropping regions receiving rainfall of only up to 10 millimetres.

• Over the coming days, the northern half of the country is expected to receive up to 300 millimetres of rainfall associated with low pressure systems.

o A wet week in Queensland and northern New South Wales cropping regions will likely interrupt harvest of summer crops but boost soil moisture levels for winter crops.

o A drier week is expected in remaining cropping regions and will likely see a decline in soil moisture levels.

• Globally, variable rainfall during February has led to mixed crop production prospects.

o Global production conditions were generally favourable for rice while mixed for wheat, soybeans and maize.

o Global production conditions have generally remained largely unchanged, except for in South America, compared to those used to formulate ABARES forecasts of global grain supplies and world prices for 2023–24 in its March 2024 edition of the Agricultural Commodities Report. As a result, global grain and oilseed production are likely to remain similar to those presented in the March forecast, with falls in corn production to be offset by increase in rice and wheat production.

• Water storage levels in the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB) decreased between 7 March 2024 and 14 March 2024 by 190 gigalitres (GL).

Current volume of water held in storage is 17 553 GL, equivalent to 78% of total storage capacity. This is 13 percent or 2536 GL less than at the same time last year.

• Allocation prices in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke increased from

$26 on 7 March 2024 to $27 on 14 March 2024. Prices are lower in the Murrumbidgee due to the binding of the Murrumbidgee export limit.

Climate

1.1. Rainfall this week

For the week ending 20 March 2024, monsoon lows generated rain and storms in the tropics extending to central Western Australia and far-north Queensland.

Tropical Cyclone Megan generated higher than anticipated rainfall around the Gulf of Carpentaria, reaching 400 millimetres in some areas.

A low-pressure trough resulted in showers and thunderstorms in New South Wales, eastern Victoria and southern parts of South Australia. Meanwhile, a cold front in Tasmania brought rainfall exceeding 25 millimetres in some areas.

Across cropping regions, rainfall totals up to 50 millimetres were recorded across parts of New South Wales, while up to 25 millimetres was recorded across scatted areas of Victoria, South Australia and Queensland. Minimal rainfall occurred in Western Australia with cropping regions receiving no more than 10 millimetres.

Minimal rainfall across much of Queensland’s cropping regions allowed an uninterrupted harvest of summer crops. Rainfall across New South Wales will contribute to soil moisture storage for the winter cropping season.

Rainfall forecast for the next eight days

Over the 8 days to 28 March 2024, low pressure systems are expected to generate rainfall totals of up to 300 millimetres across most of the northern half of the country. High pressure systems will keep the southern half of the country generally dry. A cold front will result in rainfall in western Tasmania.

Across cropping regions, rainfall totals up to 100 millimetres are forecast for Queensland and up to 50 millimetres in northern New South Wales. If realised, these falls will boost soil moisture levels for pasture growth and prepare the season for the winter crops. However, the expected rainfall is likely to interrupt harvest of summer crops. Little to no rainfall is expected across the remaining cropping regions. With drier conditions in the recent weeks, particularly in South Australia and Victoria,

soil moisture levels are likely to continue declining.

As of 28 February 2024, global production conditions were generally favourable for rice, but variable for wheat, maize and soybeans.

• Wheat: In the northern hemisphere, winter wheat begins to break winter dormancy and enters early growth stage in the southern regions generally under variable conditions in parts of Europe, Ukraine, the Russian Federation, and north America.

• Maize: In the southern hemisphere, harvesting of the spring-planted crop is continuing under dry conditions in Brazil as conditions improve in Argentina. Dry conditions develop in South Africa, which may present a downside risk.

• Rice: In India, transplanting of the Rabi crop continues in the east under favourable conditions. In Bangladesh, Boro season rice is favourable. In southeast Asia, conditions are favourable in Indonesia as dry conditions develop in Thailand and the Philippines.

• Soybeans: In the southern hemisphere, harvesting is continuing

in Brazil under dry conditions and recent rainfall improves crops in Argentina.

The global climate outlook for April 2024 to June 2024 indicates that mixed rainfall conditions are expected for the world’s major grainproducing and oilseedproducing regions. Outlooks and potential production impacts for the major grain and oilseed producing countries are presented in the table.

Water markets –current week

Water storage levels in the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB) decreased between 14 March 2024 and 21 March 2024 by 166 gigalitres (GL). Current volume of water held in storage is 17 327 GL, equivalent to 78% of total storage capacity. This is 13 percent or 2539 GL less than at the same time last year.

Allocation prices in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke increased from $27 on 14 March 2024 to $30 on 21 March 2024. Prices are lower in the Murrumbidgee and regions above the Barmah choke due to the binding of the Murrumbidgee export limit and Barmah choke trade constraint.

Industry to farewell dedicated leader

CANEGROWERS

has wished long-time Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) chief executive Greg Beashel a wonderful retirement following today’s announcement that he would step down from the role of CEO and Managing Director on 30 June.

“Greg has been a tremendous servant to the industry during his time with QSL, especially while being in the top job,”

CANEGROWERS

Chairman Owen Menkens said.

“He has always been approachable, and willing to partner with the growing sector of the industry and has been a great advocate for the Australian sugarcane industry at an international level

through his leading roles with both The Global Alliance and the Australian Sugar Industry Alliance.”

“Greg’s legacy of navigating QSL through challenging times, while ensuring the organisation remained a highly respected and competitive marketer of Australian sugar within an increasingly competitive environment, is something he should be very proud of.”

After more than two decades at Queensland’s largest sugar marketer, 12 of those in the top job, Mr Beashel leaves big shoes for his successor Mark Hampson to fll, Mr Menkens said.

“After 24 years in the industry, Greg takes

with him a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be hard to replace.

“I congratulate Mark on his appointment to the CEO and Managing Director role. He has some pretty big shoes to fll, but I congratulate him and, given our already strong relationship with Mark, I am confdent he will be ready to make a positive contribution to the industry as an important leader when Greg retires in June.

“On behalf of growers, I wish Greg all the best with his retirement. After more 20 years in what I am sure was often a high-pressure role, he defnitely deserves a break.”

Complete Clearing Sale of Keith Lennard

Master Craftsman and Furniture Maker Antique & Vintage Collector

The complete sale of Keith Lennard’s personal inventory of antiques, vintage wares, handcrafted furniture, collection of sawn native timbers and furniture making equipment. Keith Lennard of Ulmarra has a reputation of being one of the Valley’s premier craftsmen.

Furniture: Antique Leadlight Kitchen Cabinet, Cedar Wall Hutch x 2, Cedar Coffee Table, Hoop Pine & Cedar Kitchen Dresser, Dressing Table, Chest of Drawers, Coffee Tables, Parquetry Dining Table, Wash Stand, Wooden Service Trolley, Antique Kitchen Dresser, Cedar Side Table Side Table Cedar Coffee Table Art Deco Wardrobe Singer Sewing

Mossman devastated as mystery investor walks away

The small north Queensland community of Mossman has been dealt a devastating blow, with a mystery investor pulling the plug on plans to purchase the local sugar mill, sending the region’s single largest employer into liquidation.

The mill’s parent company, the Daintree Bio Precinct Group, has been facing liquidation since going into voluntary administration last November.

The company received a lifeline on 29 February, when creditors supported a proposal put forward by an unnamed investor who stepped in at the last minute with plans to save the mill.

In devastating news, the community has now been told that those plans have fallen through, with the investor backing out of the deal just before the end of a 15-business day statutory deadline.

“It’s heartbreaking, not just for growers and the local sugar industry, but for the whole Mossman community,” CANEGROWERS Mossman Chairman Matt Watson said.

“Local growers have been backing this business for years through investment in our crops and in the mill

itself, and we had high hopes when this investor approached the company administrator with a plan to save the mill.

“They laid out their plans for bringing the mill back to proftability over the next four years, before transitioning into a green energy hub.

“To have those hopes crushed at the last minute and for the investor to simply walk away from the community is just devastating.”

CANEGROWERS is now calling on the State Government to honour its commitment to provide $12.1 million in funding to support workers and farmers.

“Growers have already invested more than $14 million into this year’s crop and the harvest is rapidly approaching. We need the government to come through on its funding commitment so that growers can recoup as much of that money as possible, otherwise a lot of families and businesses in the town will go to the wall,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.

Premier Steven Miles announced the funding at a Community Cabinet meeting in Cairns on 28 February, saying the government understood that Mossman Mill plays

“a pivotal role in shaping the town, livelihoods, and culture of the communities around it.

“Of course, we would like to see the mill continue operations, but our government is committed to ensuring our workers, farmers and wider community are supported, whatever the outcome,” Mr Miles said.

At the same meeting, Agriculture Minister Mark Furner acknowledged the signifcant contribution growers had made to the 2024 crop.

Mr Galligan is now calling on the Premier and Agriculture Minister to back up their words with actions and provide the funding necessary to help get the 2024 crop harvested.

“This is not just about growers getting paid, it’s also about mill workers, suppliers, tradies, businesses of all shapes and sizes, right across the region. Growers have put millions into this crop, but if they can’t get it harvested, more than $40 million will be lost to the community.

“Now is the time for government to step up and support the entire community by ensuring we can get this crop off,” he said.

Proposal for Seismic Testing off WA Coast Threatens Rock Lobster Industry

The rock lobster industry in Western Australia is sounding the alarm over a proposed seismic testing initiative off the state’s coastline, citing signifcant risks to the $240 million fshery. Pilot Energy is seeking to conduct seismic testing across a 946 square kilometre stretch of coast south of Dongara, aimed at identifying potential oil and gas reserves as well as carbon sequestration locations. This process involves the use of powerful air guns to create soundwaves that penetrate and map beneath the ocean foor.

While seismic surveys are mandated by the energy company’s federal oil and gas exploration license, the specifcs regarding the timing and methodology of the testing are yet to be determined.

Concerns have been raised following a study conducted by the WA Government last year, which revealed that seismic testing left lobsters disoriented and confused.

Matt Taylor, CEO of the Western Rock

Lobster Council, emphasized that research conducted on southern lobster species may not accurately refect the impact on WA’s “less resilient” red crayfsh. He highlighted the critical importance of the fshing grounds affected by the proposed testing, which support coastal towns and constitute a highly valuable area for the fshery.

Taylor expressed concern over the established research fndings, citing a signifcant reduction in lobster recapture rates, potentially attributed to the adverse effects of seismic activity on lobster behaviour and survival. Despite these concerns, Pilot Energy has shown reluctance to collaborate on research for the proposed survey.

In response, Pilot Energy spokesperson Matthew Smith affrmed the company’s commitment to addressing uncertainties and working with the Western Rock Lobster Council. While acknowledging the impact of seismic activity on marine life,

Beef processor proftability returning to normal range, after October spike

Following a brief surge late last year amidst a sharp decline in cattle prices around October, recent calculations indicate that beef processor proft margins have reverted to typical levels.

concluding the year at 0.86 in December.

Smith maintained that it was not directly lethal to lobsters but could modify their behaviour, potentially increasing their vulnerability to predation.

Smith emphasized the resilience of the Western Rock Lobster population and highlighted the proposed surveys’ limited impact on the species’ habitat. Additionally, Pilot Energy is pursuing plans for Australia’s frst offshore carbon capture and storage (CCS) project, aiming to convert an offshore oil well at Cliff Head for CO2 storage.

However, concerns persist within the lobster industry regarding the risks associated with carbon storage beneath the seabed, including the potential for leaching into the water column and causing ocean acidifcation. Despite assurances from Pilot Energy, industry stakeholders remain vigilant, advocating for measures to mitigate the potential adverse impacts on marine ecosystems and the fshing industry.

Episode 3’s Beef Processor Proftability Index (BPPI), last assessed in October, highlighted a signifcant improvement in processor margins, reaching a peak of 1.99 – the highest recorded since the data series began in 2000. This surge coincided with a downturn in Australian cattle prices due to concerns over potential drought, as forecasted by the Bureau of Meteorology.

Despite this peak, the BPPI gradually eased towards the end of 2023,

Subsequently, in the frst months of 2024, the BPPI has normalized, registering fgures of 0.39 for January and 0.44 for February. The shaded 70% range represents the typical behavior of the BPPI, based on historical monthly fuctuations since 2000.

It is essential to recognize that the BPPI is a theoretical model representing beef processing margins and does not imply all processors are either proftable or experiencing losses. A negative index signifes a challenging trading environment for processors, while a positive index indicates a more favorable environment.

Examining annual

averages since 2000, 2023 stood out as a strong year for beef processors, with an annual average BPPI of 0.83, rivaling the previous best year in 2014. However, the long-term average BPPI remains low at 0.14, refecting the volatile nature of the beef processing sector over the past decade.

Looking ahead, the projection of increased annual cattle slaughter towards the mid-2020s should sustain positive annual average margins for beef processors.

Based on current Meat & Livestock Australia slaughter projections, an index of 0.21 is anticipated for 2024 and 0.38 for 2025, aligning with historical correlations between annual slaughter and BPPI.

Preventing rural crime against farmers and rural industries is one of our priorities for Crime Stoppers and the NSW Police Force.

Crime Stoppers has invested over $250,000 in a range of marketing material to assist farmers, by helping to encourage reporting but also to prevent crimes.

The merchandise, which includes “No trespassing” gate signs, keyrings, notebooks, magnets, and stickers featuring the Police Assistance Line (PAL) details for reporting crime, is being distributed to farmers and landowners across the state.

This and other crime prevention strategies have been developed in consultation with the Crime Stopper’s Rural Crime Advisory Group consisting of representation from NSW Police Force, Centre for Rural Criminology at UNE, NSW Farmers Association, Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association, Australian Food and Fibre, Livestock & Transporters Association, Livestock, Bulk & Rural Carriers Association, and the Country Women’s Association who are also assisting with getting these items in the hands of farmers.

Preventing rural crime is a priority

The Australian Hoteliers Association (AHA NSW) has also come on board by distributing rural crime themed coasters to its network of venues in regional NSW, with the aim of starting a conversation and encouraging the reporting of crimes.

Face to face engagement is also part of the plan with the NSW Police Force, Rural Crime Prevention Team and Crime Stoppers attending community events in regional areas to meet with the community and discuss local issues.

Crimes in rural NSW are both varied and distressing. Stolen livestock, farm machinery and fuel theft, illegal hunting and trespassing are all having a devastating effect on the people

who live in our regional communities. This type of crime has signifcant fnancial, physical, and psychological devastation to farmers while effecting the wider economy.

The reporting of rural crime remains steady but lower than Police would like to see. When a crime is reported, particularly promptly, there is not just a greater chance of catching the perpetrators, but it increases the chance of recovering the stolen goods for our farmers.

It is absolutely imperative victims report. Your information matters. We cannot build capacity and infrastructure without information. Anything you provide Police or Crime Stoppers could be the missing piece of the puzzle needed to solve a crime.

Recently, a report to the Police Assistance Line led to a man being charged with the theft of irrigation equipment valued at around $30,000 and other offences. The Police investigated the report, arresting the man and recovering the stolen items.

In another incident, Police have recently arrested a man linked to several offences on rural properties across Central West NSW. These offences include the alleged theft of 1000 litres of diesel and damage to heavy machinery with an estimated value of more than $440,000.

CEO of Crime Stoppers NSW, Mr Peter Price said we can’t build community resilience and infrastructure if we are in the dark about farm crime.

“Being a victim of

there are some measures that individuals can do to help prevent crime from happening to them,” said Det/Ch Insp Whiteside.

Farmers are urged to accurately record livestock identifcation, remove keys from machinery, keep photos of valuable stock to assist with identifying them and install quality locking devices on your gates, sheds, and equipment.

crime and reporting the crime, matters. If police don’t know about the crime, they can’t do anything. The more information reported, the better equipped the police are to act to prevent or solve a crime”, said Mr Price.

“If we all work together, the result will be a better, more prosperous future, and safer and healthier communities.

The State Rural Crime Coordinator of the NSWPF Rural Crime Prevention Team, Detective Chief Inspector Cameron Whiteside said under reporting of rural crime continues to be a major problem in helping police prevent, disrupt, and respond to crime.

“We need a whole of community approach to reduce and solve crime in regional areas and

“If you see or hear of anything you believed to be suspicious, such as a vehicle in an area that’s not meant to be there, or stock being moved late at night; we urge you to call Crime Stoppers or your local police.”

We need to be better informed; we can’t do that without the public reporting crime.

There are many different ways the community can report crime in their area including PAL, their local police station, Crime Stoppers and Triple Zero for emergencies. The campaign centres on the tagline - Be a pal and report any theft, any time, to PAL on 131 444 - and - report suspicious or actual criminal information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

Yellowstone

Yellowstone, created by Taylor Sheridan, is a gripping American drama series that shows the hardships and the beauty of ranching in Montana. It’s set against the dramatic vistas of Montana and follows the Dutton family, led by patriarch John Dutton, played by Kevin Costner, who controls one of the largest contiguous ranches in the United States. The show delves into the conficts along the borders of their land, against a backdrop of shifting alliances, unsolved murders, and the ever-present pressure from developers and the national park.

Yellowstone is acclaimed for its

intricate storytelling, complex characters, and the portrayal of issues facing modern-day ranchers, wrapped up in

the struggle to maintain family legacy and land. The series has been praised for its stunning cinematography,

showcasing the rugged beauty of the American West, and for the depth and intensity of its performances, especially

Costner’s.

The series also explores themes of loyalty, justice, and survival, with a narrative

that is both epic in scope and deeply personal in its examination of the Dutton family’s internal dynamics and external threats. Through its seasons, Yellowstone has successfully expanded its universe, adding layers to its characters, and setting up intriguing plotlines, making it a compelling watch for viewers who enjoy dramas flled with power struggles, family dynamics, and a richly depicted American landscape.

Yellowstone is set to start flming the fnal season this year and should be aired in Summer 2024. It is now available to watch on Stan.

26

27 Extreme happiness; ... heaven

31 Organise ahead

33 Santa’s home (5,4)

36 Pure

37 Comforting

39 Roman cloak

42 Upon

43 Reel

45

TARGET TIME

R Y T I L A N H B

Today’s target:

28 words average

33 words good

39+ 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

ASTROLOGY with Joanne

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Auspac Media

Monday’s pre-Easter Lunar Eclipse lights up your partnership zone. So, this week, focus maximum attention on the special loved ones in your life. It’s also time to get the balance right between invigorating independence and cosy togetherness. Your motto for the moment is from Aries writer and activist Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Email: auspac@auspacmedia.com.au

our site: www.auspacmedia.com.au

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Are you stuck in a Taurean rut? Have you been too stubborn to embrace change? This week’s Lunar Eclipse shakes up your daily routine zone. Plus, adventurous Jupiter and innovative Uranus also inject fresh energy and enthusiasm into your day-to-day life. So use it as an opportunity to open your mind and expand your world. The Easter weekend favours social get-togethers with your extended peer group as you eat, drink, dance, enjoy and explore.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

With four planets powering through your work zone, a professional matter or a volunteer project is taking up most of your precious time at the moment. If it’s too much to handle on your own, then don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from your peer group. Don’t battle on alone … others are happy to pitch in and help. As Ringo Starr sings: “I get by with a little help from my friends.” The weekend is wonderful for relaxing, unwinding, drifting and dreaming.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Crabs are the natural nurturers of the zodiac but looking after loved ones won’t be easy, as you juggle your busy personal and professional lives. Monday’s Lunar Eclipse falls in your domestic zone, so it’s a good week to clean and declutter your living space, then you can enjoy entertaining family and/or friends on the Easter weekend. Some lucky Crabs will travel somewhere special or unexpected – to a destination with good food and a cosy, homey atmosphere.

The Lunar Eclipse fires up your tempestuous nature, so you’ll feel amped up and ready to perform as you overdo just about everything! But don’t let overconfidence (and over-exuberance) trip you up. Your head’s full of ambitious dreams and fabulous schemes, but they’ll only work if you can persuade other people to contribute to Team Leo. You’ll find creative collaboration (especially at work) will take you a lot further than functioning as a solo operator.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

With four planets dashing through your partnership zone, the more diplomatic, caring and compassionate you are, the better your personal and professional relationships will be. Monday’s pre-Easter Lunar Eclipse stimulates your selfesteem and money zone. So – if you want to do well financially – spending sprees are out, and serious saving is in! It’s also an appropriate time to reflect on your personal values and reassess your current priorities.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

The pre-Easter Lunar Eclipse is in your sign, so do your best to be fair and balanced, as you appreciate differing viewpoints. But is your lovelife stuck on autopilot? It’s time to blast away the cobwebs and look at things from a fresh angle. Single Libra – are you fed up with dating disasters? Steer clear of flirtatious charmers with frivolous values and dubious motives. Attached Libra – love, adventure and experimentation are a super romantic mix.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Monday’s Lunar Eclipse favours meditation, contemplation, relaxation and investigation as you solve a problem or get to the bottom of a perplexing mystery. However, if you stubbornly hang onto the past and resist change, you’re in for a rocky ride. You need to be more flexible and adapt to constantly changing circumstances. Heed the wise words of Scorpio actor and social commentator Will Rogers: “Chaotic action is preferable to orderly inaction.”

The Sun and Mercury are transiting through your leisure-and-pleasure zone, so it’s time to plan a party, book a massage, attend a concert, see an exhibition, or organise a night at the movies. Plus, the Lunar Eclipse activates your hopesand-wishes zone. So smart Sagittarians will start dreaming and planning a bigger and better life now! Your quote is from this week’s birthday great, entertainer extraordinaire Elton John: “I’ve always been, and still am, a dreamer.”

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Do your best to be sensitive to the needs of others. The pre-Easter Lunar Eclipse stirs up relationship insecurities (especially at home and work) and you may have to handle someone with kid gloves! Keep your Capricorn cool, as you participate in some difficult conversations and then deftly steer the subject matter onto safer ground. Short trips, education, friendships, creative projects, and local community connections are particularly favoured.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

With the Lunar Eclipse activating your wanderlust zone, many restless Aquarians will feel cooped up, housebound and a bit stir-crazy. So pull on your travelling shoes and escape on an Easter getaway or plan an adventurous trip for sometime soon. On the weekend you’ll communicate your innovative ideas with extra pizazz, as you dream big dreams, talk about progressive philosophies, and make connections with influential folk from foreign shores.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

The pre-Easter Lunar Eclipse highlights a close relationship, shared finances or a joint venture. Secrets and issues of loyalty could also be placed under the microscope, as you discover whether your trust in someone has been well-placed. And prepare for a burst of Piscean creativity and energy as Venus, Mars, Saturn and Neptune activate your sign. Lucky opportunities could magically manifest, especially within your local community or via social media.

Madeline Moore

MAIN ARM GENERAL STORE

OPEN 7 DAYS

Only closed good friday

FRIDAY

GARDENING AUSTRALIA

ABC, 7.30pm

Surrounding themselves with plants and nature seems to eternally instil the Garden Australia crew with a palpable sense of vibrancy and passion… and they never pass up the opportunity to celebrate an occasion. In tonight’s joyous and upbeat o ering, the school holidays are here and there’s an abundance of inspiration for the break. Costa Georgiadis visits Australia Zoo to not only meet its fascinating residents, but learn about how its plants supply food and a habitat. Jane Edmanson (pictured) visits an inspiring outdoor area that proves size doesn’t matter, where a courtyard big enough to park a car is ourishing with native trees and a lush wild ower meadow.

FRIDAY, March 29

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 6.30 Cook And The Chef. (R) 7.00 News. 9.35 Easter In Australia. (PG, R) 10.30 That Paci c Sports Show. (R)

11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News.

12.30 QI. (Ml, R) 1.00 Silent Witness. (Malv, R)

2.00 House Of Gods. (Ma, R)

3.00 The Cook And The Chef. (R)

3.25 To Be Advised.

5.10 Grand Designs. (R)

6.00 Back Roads: Longford, Tasmania. (R)

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News At Easter. Takes a look at today’s top stories.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Jane Edmanson tours a tiny garden.

8.30 Happy Valley. (Malv) Catherine confronts Clare. Faisal and Joanna hatch a plan that takes an unexpected turn.

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

10.05 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R) A satirical news program.

10.35 QI. (PG, R)

11.05 ABC Late News.

11.25 Grand Designs: Essex. (R)

12.15 Belgravia. (PG, R)

1.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

SUNDAY HOUSE OF GODS

ABC, 8.30pm

This heady mix of wealth, power, faith and family comes to its crunch in a satisfying, simmering conclusion. The tension has been ratcheted up to oppressive levels in this Sydney-based story of an Iraqi family. It’s a polished drama vibrating with sterling performances, every little detail is plumbed melodramatic e in “When God Speaks”, resolution of sorts as the dragged to light, but some unexpected power and deals to appreciate and unravel as Sheikh Shaaker (Simon Elrahi) confronts his adversary and uncovers the depths of patriarch Sheikh Mohammad’s (Kamel El Basha) ambition. It’s a thrilling act. Also starring Maia Abbas (pictured).

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.00 Wonderful World Of Baby Animals. (PG, R) 10.50 Mountain Vets. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch.

2.00 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum.

3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Mystery Of The Ark Of Covenant. (PG, R) A look at the Ark of the Covenant.

8.20 Japan: World’s Most Punctual Train: From Tokyo To The Sea Of Japan. Part 1 of 2.

10.10 Naples: Under The Volcanic Threat. (R)

11.10 A French Case. (Premiere, Mal)

12.10 Max Anger: With One Eye Open. (Mal, R)

3.30 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

TUESDAY NCIS

TEN, 9pm

Prepare to be surprised and energised by this unpredictable season 21 premiere. After more than 20 years, this trusty naval police procedural stalwart can admittedly feel a little worn out at times, but after long-standing star Mark Harmon’s exit last year, there’s more room for the supporting players to shine. Wilmer Valderrama (pictured) makes his mark in a powerful character development for Nick Torres tonight. “Algún Día” goes beneath the surface and into the troubled family history of the anguished cop in a daring storyline. Next week, pack tissues for a moving special tribute episode to late actor David McCallum, who played Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard for two decades.

SEVEN (6)

6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Don’t Sweat The Small Stu : The Kristine Carlson Story. (2021, PGadl) 2.00 Border Security: America’s Front Line. (PG, R)

2.30 Surveillance Oz. (PG, R)

3.00 The Chase. (R)

4.00 Seven News At 4.

5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens.

8.30 MOVIE: The Butler. (2013, Malv, R) The dramatic changes that swept through society, from the civil rights movement to Vietnam and beyond, are seen from the point of view of a White House butler who served seven presidents across three decades. Forest Whitaker, Oprah Winfrey, John Cusack.

11.15 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (Mal,

TEN (5) NBN (8, 80)

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning.

12.00 MOVIE: For The Love Of Chocolate. (2021, G, R) Rhiannon Fish. 2.00 Pointless. (PG) Presented by Alexander Armstrong. 3.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 4. South Sydney Rabbitohs v Canterbury Bulldogs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 The Talk. (PGa)

6.30

Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Ready Steady Cook. (PGa) Hosted by Miguel Maestre.

8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mal, R) Graham Norton is joined by Bruce Springsteen, Anya Taylor-Joy, Anna Maxwell Martin and Mo Gilligan.

9.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia. (PGs, R) Graeme Hall tries to prevent a dog from ruining a relationship and save another from eviction.

10.30 Fire Country. (PGa, R) A re erupts after a plane crash.

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

NUMBER CRUNCH CROSSCODE

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 DISPARITY (a) Disparaging talk (b) Inequality (c) A calm state of mind

2 FURIBUND (a) Stealthy (b) Thievish (c) Raging

3 GRAVEOLENT (a) Rank-smelling (b) Solemn (c) Mourning

4 LAMBENT (a) Softly bright (b) Unsatisfactory (c) Deserving sorrow

5 PARVENU (a) A set of ornaments (b) A gumboil (c) An upstart

SOLUTIONS

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 Who knocked Novak Djokovic out of the 2024 Australian Open singles tournament?

(a) Daniil Medvedev

(b) Rafael Nadal

(c) Jannik Sinner

(d) Alexander Zverev

2 Halitosis is more commonly known as what?

(a) Tennis elbow

(b) Baldness

(c) Ringworm

(d) Bad breath

3 Tarawa is the capital city of which island country?

(a) Nauru

(b) Kiribati (c) Palau (d) Samoa

4 Which well-known song includes the words, “You saw her bathing on the roof“?

(a) Like A Rolling Stone (b) My Sharona (c) Hallelujah (d) Smells Like Teen Spirit

5 Who wrote the 1960s novel, The Sundered Worlds (aka The Blood Red Game)?

(a) Terry Pratchett (b) Richard Adams (c) Michael Moorcock

(d) Graham Joyce

6 In which decade did the period known as the Great Chinese Famine begin?

(a) 1950s (b) 1940s (c) 1930s (d) 1920s

Here is a crossword with a di erence, all the letters of the alphabet are represented by a number in the grid and there are no clues. Some letters have been given as clues to get you started, use the code cracker grid below to keep track of each letter and their coded number.

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

ALFAKODO

Letters A to Z have a number value

Some are shown in the right hand cells Create remaining values using clues in centre cells

Splendour In The Grass has Released its Massive 2024 Lineup

The Splendour In The Grass lineup has just dropped (A bit earlier than expected due to an apparent slip up via a billboard in Sydney), and we can see some massive names heading to Byron Bay in July!

A bit different than the usual array of artist who travel far and wide to the North Byron Parklands, the lineup has received a great facelift with some iconic headliners, and some up and coming artist for punters to enjoy.

Set over 3 huge days, one of Australia’s biggest festivals is set to leave a wide range of music lovers happy. Let’s have a look at who will be playing over the 3-day event.

Friday 19th

Headliner – Kylie

Joined by:

• G Flip

• Turnstile

• Tash Sultana

• Omar Apollo

• Partiboi69

• Angie McMahon

• Viagra Boys

• Isoxo

• Confdence Man

• Otoboke Beaver

• Allday

• A.B. Original

• Yard Act

• Teen Jesus & The Jean Teasers

• Jk-47

• Leisure

• Kita Alexander

• Skeleten

• Radio Free Alice

• Becca Hatch

• Nick Ward

• Triple J Unearthed

• Plus lots more!

Saturday 20th

Headliner – Future

Joined by:

• Yeat

• Hayden James

• Fontaines D.C.

• Lizzy Mcalpine

• Tones And I

• The Last Dinner Party

• The Presets (Dj Set)

• Pond

• Boywithuke

• Middle Kids

• Beddy Rays

• Swim

• Coco & Clair Clair

• Michael Marcagi

• Floodlights

• Rona.

• The Dreggs

• Teenage Joans

• Good Neighbours

• Rum Jungle

• Willo

• Miss Kaninna

• Logan

• Plus lots more!

Sunday 21st

Headliner – Arcade Fire

Joined by:

• Girl In Red

• Baby Gravy

• Royel Otis

• Dj Seinfeld (Exclusive)

• The Kills

• Tv Girl

• Thelma Plum

• Fletcher

• Polaris

• Eyedress

• Sofa Kourtesis

• Sam Alfred

• Pacifc Avenue

• Erika De Casier

• Grentperez

• Danny Ocean

• Old Mervs

• Paris Paloma

• 6 Sense

• The Slingers

• Vv Pete

• Belair Lip Bombs

• Triple J Unearthed

• Plus lots more! With a huge range of artist for everyone to enjoy, it’s time to get in and start planning with your mates. With camping available to keep you in the action, or accommodation nearby, it’s best to make sure you’re prepared and book in early. Tickets are on sale now via the offcial Splendour In The Grass Website.

Event Details

• When: 19, 20 & 21 of July

• Where: North Byron Parklands

• Tickets:

Jet are playing at Hotel Brunswick

Get ready to rock as Jet will hit the stage at Hotel Brunswick on Friday May 24.

JET today announce an extended run of dates across Australia this May and June celebrating the 20-year anniversary of their seminal debut album, Get Born.

Due to popular demand, the band are extending their highly successful anniversary tour from September last year to visit a fresh list of towns and cities across the country. The

‘Extended Edition’ begins in Torquay on Friday May 10 before visiting Hobart, Fremantle, Darwin, Brunswick Heads, Sunshine Coast, Central Coast, Kiama, Canberra and Newcastle.

Jet will play Get Born in full, re-visiting the incredible track list that won them fans right across the world –including timeless tracks such as Are You Gonna Be My Girl, Look What You’ve Done, Rollover DJ and Get Me Outta Here. Songs that sound

as invigorating today as they did 20 years ago.

Jet are Nic Cester (vocals/guitar), Chris Cester (vocals/drums), Cam Muncey (vocals/ guitar) and Mark Wilson (bass). Formed in Melbourne in the late ’90s, Jet released their frst EP, the vinyl-only Dirty Sweet in 2002. Get Born was released after their label deal with Elektra and was followed by the albums Shine On in 2006 and Shaka Rock in 2009. After riding a wave of international success,

Jet disbanded in 2012 before re-forming in early 2017. In November last year, the band received the honour of being inducted into the 2023 ARIA Hall Of Fame.

Don’t miss JET as they return this May for the Extended Edition of their Get Born 20-Year Anniversary Tour.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday May 24th

• Where: Hotel Brunswick

• Tickets: via Live Nation

The customer is always right

Emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the needs of paying customers in water management decisions.

WaterNSW’s operating license must be customer-centric, with a focus on serving the needs of paying customers above non-paying community stakeholders who are merely observers in the process.

The NSW Irrigators’ Council (NSWIC) has submitted recommendations to the IPART review of WaterNSW’s operating license, urging a reassessment of costsharing frameworks.

Specifcally, NSWIC calls for a review to ensure that water users are only charged for water delivery services, rather than bearing the burden of public good services such as fsh passageways and climate change adaptation.

Claire Miller, CEO of NSWIC, expressed

concerns about the interpretation of the ‘impactor pays principle’ by IPART. She highlighted the disproportionate burden placed on WaterNSW customers for funding public good services demanded by the broader community.

Furthermore, the recent IPART Pricing Determination of 2021 led to a substantial increase in WaterNSW charges for water users, with rumours suggesting another signifcant leap in charges for the next pricing determination.

Miller emphasized that such hikes are unsustainable for farmers, who face challenges in continuing agricultural production under such fnancial pressures.

NSWIC’s submission also addressed concerns regarding the effectiveness of current engagement models employed by water management authorities. Customer feedback

indicates dissatisfaction with communication, service quality, and engagement methods. NSWIC advocates for improved consultation processes that prioritize customer needs and preferences, including targeted and meaningful consultation, valleybased engagement approaches, and regular satisfaction surveys.

Additionally, NSWIC supports the retention and enhancement of Customer Advisory Groups (CAGs) to facilitate direct customer consultation and ensure accountability to operating standards.

In conclusion, NSWIC urges regulatory authorities to listen to the voices of water users and implement reforms that align with the evolving needs of NSW communities while ensuring fair and equitable cost-sharing arrangements in water management practices.

US pull back on vehicle emissions timings should sound warning in Australia

The recent announcement that the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has adjusted the timelines of its vehicle emission standards due to concerns over consumer and manufacturer impacts should serve as a cautionary tale for the Australian Government regarding the proposed New Vehicle Effciency Standards (NVES), according to the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF).

David Jochinke, President of the NFF, emphasized that while there are differences between the US and Australian markets, rushing into an NVES policy could disproportionately affect producers and regional Australians.

“Farmers support efforts to reduce Australia’s greenhouse

gas emissions, and the National Vehicle Effciency Standards may incentivize the transition to lower emission vehicles,” stated Mr. Jochinke.

“However, for Australian farmers, viable alternatives are currently lacking, forcing them to purchase vehicles that would be penalized under this scheme.”

Mr. Jochinke highlighted concerns about potential cost increases for farming, with many vehicle manufacturers warning of price hikes due to the policy’s implementation. He stressed that there are currently no viable alternatives in the Australian market that match the towing capacity, all-day range, and durability of internal combustion vehicles commonly used on farms across

the country.

“These vehicles are our tools of the trade, essential for everyday operations much like a journalist relies on a laptop or a painter relies on a paintbrush,” he added.

The NFF is urging the Government to exempt vehicles used by primary producers from the scheme until genuine alternative options are available or until it can be demonstrated that price increases on existing vehicles will not occur.

“We appreciate the Government’s willingness to listen to our concerns and their openness to considering appropriate changes before fnalizing the policy,” Mr. Jochinke remarked. “We are closely monitoring to see if these changes adequately address our concerns as the policy progresses.”

Study Warns: Climate Change to Fuel Rise in Food Prices and Infation

A recent study conducted by an environmental scientist in collaboration with the European Central Bank reveals that as temperatures rise due to climate change, food prices and overall infation will experience an upward trend.

Examining monthly price data of food and various goods alongside temperature and climate factors across 121 nations since 1996, researchers have determined that “weather and climate shocks” will contribute to an increase in the cost of food. The projected rise is estimated to be between 1.5 to 1.8 percentage points annually within the

next decade, with even higher impacts expected in regions already experiencing elevated temperatures, such as the Middle East.

These fndings, published in the journal Communications, Earth, and the Environment, indicate that by 2035, climate change-induced extreme weather events alone could lead to an overall infation increase of 0.8 to 0.9 percentage points. Although seemingly modest, these fgures hold signifcance for fnancial institutions like the US Federal Reserve, which actively combat infation.

Lead author of the

study, Max Kotz, a climate scientist at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany, underscores the broader implications of these fndings, stating, “This is really another example of how climate change can undermine human welfare and economic stability.”

Looking ahead to 2060, the study predicts a further escalation in climate-triggered infation, with global food prices anticipated to surge by 2.2 to 4.3 percentage points annually. This translates to an increase in overall infation ranging from 1.1 to 2.2 percentage points.

Gernot Wagner, a climate economist at Columbia University’s business school, comments on what he terms “climatefation,” highlighting the striking nature of the data presented in the study. Through an analysis of 20,000 data points, Dr. Kotz and European Bank economists establish a causal link between extreme weather events, particularly heatwaves, and rising prices. While discussions around infation and climate change often focus on rising energy prices, Dr. Kotz emphasizes the additional impact of productivity shocks

stemming from climate change-induced weather phenomena.

The study underscores the 2022 European heatwave as a pertinent example, wherein high temperatures signifcantly reduced food supplies, resulting in a two-thirds of a percentage point increase in food prices and a one-third of a percentage point rise in overall infation. Dr. Kotz further notes that these price increases were even more pronounced in regions such as Romania, Hungary, and parts of southern Europe.

Frances Moore, an environmental economist at the University of

California, Davis, who was not involved in the study, acknowledges the credibility of the fndings, particularly the observed relationship between regional temperature anomalies and national infation.

Dr. Kotz concludes that the infationary pressure on food and other prices is exacerbated in areas and seasons characterized by hotter temperatures. Consequently, while regions like Europe and North America may experience some impact, the Global South, with its limited resources, may face more severe consequences.

SURVEY REVEALS REGIONAL HOUSING CRISIS STRAINS HEALTH AND INDUSTRY

Recent survey fndings from members of Regional Capitals Australia (RCA) paint a stark picture: 100% of respondents report that local health services are feeling the strain of the housing shortage, while an overwhelming 93% indicate that major local industries are also being adversely affected.

Chair of Regional Capitals Australia, Cr Kylie King, expressed deep concern over the multifaceted impacts of the housing crisis: “What started as a housing shortage has now evolved into a full-blown health and employment crisis in regional areas.”

Cr King elaborated on the wide-ranging consequences: “The acute shortage of housing in regional Australia is not only hampering local employment opportunities but also impeding the provision of essential services and critical national projects such as our transition to renewable energy.”

In-depth case studies conducted in RCA member councils Albury, Ballarat, Geelong, and Port Hedland underscore common challenges, including the exorbitant costs associated with infrastructure development, skills defcits, and the

underutilization of existing land and properties.

While Regional Capitals Australia acknowledges the efforts of all levels of government to address the housing shortfall, it calls for more decisive action to combat the crisis.

To tackle the housing crisis head-on, Regional Capitals Australia proposes the following measures:

• Increased release of crown land for social and affordable housing

• Implementation of planning guidelines mandating inclusionary zoning or pre-set ratios

for social and affordable housing

• Flexibility for infll development in established areas

• Refurbishment or redevelopment of government-owned derelict housing

• Adoption of innovative housing solutions such as 3D printing, modular, or prefabricated housing

• Support for the development of project partnerships with local housing providers

• Continued support for infrastructure development costs

The survey also highlights skills shortages as a signifcant

impediment, with 87% of RCA member councils identifying a scarcity of builders and tradespeople as the primary barrier to new housing initiatives.

Additionally, 73% of respondents reported a shortfall in strategic and statutory planners, essential for planning and approving residential developments.

To address skills shortages, Regional Capitals Australia recommends:

• Ensuring that skilled migration aligns with regional needs

• Providing scholarships and subsidies for degrees and training in areas

experiencing skills shortages, particularly in planning

• Increased investment in technical education and apprenticeships

• Expansion of vocational education offerings in more locations to reduce travel barriers

Cr King emphasized the urgency of responsive policy measures: “Regional housing supply must catch up with demographic shifts, necessitating more adaptive, innovative, and dynamic policy settings to empower regional councils to meet the unique needs of their communities.”

Gloucester, New South Wales

Exploring Regenerative Farming: Seeking Farmer Input

The growing interest in regenerative farming practices refects a shift among farmers toward alternative solutions for enduring challenges such as soil erosion, water retention, landscape vitality, escalating input expenses, fuctuating market dynamics, and evolving consumer expectations.

At the forefront of this movement is an online survey led by Southern Cross University, focused on gauging grain farmers’ perceptions, practices, and goals regarding regenerative agriculture. Supported by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), this initiative forms part of the recently announced project,

“Regenerative Agriculture: Understanding Intent, Practices, Benefts, and Disbenefts.”

Dr. Hanabeth Luke, leading the survey component, articulates its purpose: “This survey seeks to delve into farmer objectives and their alignment with the practices encapsulated within the regenerative agriculture toolkit. It aims to capture current perceptions within diverse farming systems.”

The research, aiming to encompass approximately 500 crop farmers nationwide, aims to elucidate grower goals, practices, and perceptions regarding regenerative agriculture. Subsequently, the

Southern Cross University research team plans to engage 75 crop farmers for a comprehensive three-year project. This project aims to establish effective monitoring mechanisms for the potential benefts or drawbacks of regenerative agriculture in Australian cropping systems, across a spectrum of indicators including agronomic, soil health, ecological, social, and economic facets.

Despite the surge in popularity of regenerative agriculture techniques, a universally accepted defnition remains elusive in Australia. This survey seeks to enrich the understanding of

pertinent farming objectives and their implications for soil, land, and business management.

Project lead Dr. Adam Canning emphasizes, “This research will provide clarity around the utilization of environmental, social, and agronomic indicators for grain growers seeking to evaluate and track their progress toward diverse regenerative goals.”

Dr. Giacomo Betti, the GRDC Manager Sustainable Cropping Systems – South, underscores the investment’s objective: “To furnish Australian growers with clarity regarding the integration of regenerative agriculture into

cropping systems.”

Dr. Betti emphasizes the pivotal role of grower participation in implementing diverse practices to ensure a comprehensive dataset and meaningful conclusions.

To maintain objectivity, GRDC has assembled a multi-disciplinary team from Southern Cross University’s Faculty of Science and Engineering. Comprising experts in soil health, agronomy, ecology, rural sociology, and natural capital accounting, this team will ensure scientifc rigor throughout the project’s lifecycle, fostering balanced and evidence-based outcomes.

SURVEY

The online survey will

take approximately 20 minutes to complete.

Survey link: https:// scuau.qualtrics. com/jfe/form/

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The research is approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of Southern Cross University (approval number: ECN 2024/027).

*The 75 recruited growers will be asked to provide access to their land so measurements can be taken and relevant data can be shared. Both Southern Cross University ethics and GRDC protocols are in place to ensure confdentiality of any individual data shared in the project.

Southern Cross University’s Dr Hanabeth Luke and Dr Adam Canning in a corn crop

Healthcare equity is one step to Close the Gap for rural First Nations people

National Rural Health Alliance

The National Rural Health Alliance (the Alliance) calls on governments and health entities to commit to the recommendations of the Close the Gap Campaign Report 2024 to ensure that we, as a nation, realise true health equity for Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“The Alliance takes a stand with Close the Gap in its call to fully implement the 2021–2031 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan and other supporting plans under First Nations’ leadership to ensure that we close

the gap in health,” said the Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen.

Achieving healthcare equity for First Nations people, especially for the almost 61 per cent living in rural, regional, and remote areas, must be a priority, given the stark disparities in health compared to nonIndigenous populations and, those who live in metropolitan areas.

A signifcant gap exists in life expectancy between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians – 6.8 years for males and 6.5 years for females in rural areas. This gap grows even bigger as remoteness increases – to 12.4 years for both males

and females.

“Addressing health workforce shortages in rural areas is one step towards Closing the Gap as First Nations peoples continue to face issues in accessing equitable and culturally safe health care. As such, the

Alliance supports the Close the Gap Report’s recommendation to invest in the development of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce, as outlined in the Health Plan, and create a culturally safe Australian

healthcare system that is responsive to the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” said Ms Tegen.

First Nations people are challenged by natural disasters throughout the year and feel a major brunt from dramatic climate variances. It is vital to invest in a national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Coalition on Climate and Health. The impact of climate-related disasters has a signifcant impact on the health and wellbeing of Indigenous populations, and more must be done to support First Nations communities to lead climate change prevention, mitigation, and adaptation strategies to improve health outcomes,” said Ms Tegen. Susi Tegen, Chief Executive, National Rural Health Alliance

“We strongly believe that rural workforce training and leadership development programs should support First Nations people living in rural, remote, and regional Australia and ensure there are culturally safe and appropriate healthcare services available. Therefore, we urge the government to invest in expanding opportunities for First Nations people to be embedded in the leadership and governance of the Health Plan.

“Additionally, rural

CRT PARTNERS WITH TIACS TO SUPPORT RURAL MENTAL HEALTH

Australia’s largest independent rural retailing group, CRT has today announced a $90,000 partnership with national mental health charity, TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter).

TIACS’ free phone and text service offers mental health support to Australia’s blue-collar community, from tradies and truckies to rural communities and people working in agriculture – with the CRT partnership marking the organisation’s frst platinum alliance with an Australian rural retail business.

“TIACS removes the

physical and fnancial barriers that have prevented farmers, and rural communities from accessing the kind of professional support they need to be able to better handle the challenges that life throws at all of us,” said Jason Banks, TAICS Co-CEO.

Born through the realisation that there were too many barriers to free mental health support for the bluecollar and agricultural communities, TIACS provides a one-off chat or ongoing counselling sessions without a GP referral.

“Our vision is to be the mental health support

service that people tell their mates about,” said Jason.

“We’re fully funded by industry for industry, offering the greatest quality of care from professional counsellors who are trained to support farmers and the rural communities.” With over 290 stores across Australia, CRT has a continuing commitment to supporting the

Jason Banks

communities in which they operate, playing vital roles in a wide variety of community initiatives, events, and organisations.

“By joining the TIACS Alliance, CRT acknowledges the important role agricultural service providers have in raising awareness of mental health services available to rural and farming communities,” said Rebecca Gay, Head of Independents at Nutrien Ag Solutions, CRT’s parent company.

“Our member stores are an important part of the communities they serve.

CRT owners and team

members see frsthand the unique challenges faced by farmers and rural communities, and are proud to be part of the solution when it comes to starting a conversation and making a meaningful impact on the mental health and wellbeing of our community.”

“CRT is proud to be TIACS’ frst rural retail Platinum Alliance partner and to be raising awareness of the important, free service TIACS makes available to farmers, the ag industry and rural communities,” said Rebecca.

NEW POLLING REVEALS: NSW RESIDENTS CONCERNED ABOUT FORCED RELOCATION DUE TO FIRE AND FLOOD RISKS

A tumultuous summer of weather extremes has left NSW residents apprehensive about the escalating risks of foods, fres, and heatwaves, raising fears of potential displacement from their homes.

According to polling conducted by the Climate Council, one in three NSW residents either have experienced or know someone who has been compelled to relocate following an extreme weather event.

Nationally, the survey fndings are equally concerning:

• One in three Australians express

worry about the possibility of permanent relocation due to extreme weather conditions.

• A staggering 79% of Australians express concerns about the impact of extreme weather events on children and young people.

• One in ten Australians have already faced the grim reality of temporary or permanent displacement from their residences due to extreme weather events.

• A third of Australians are acquainted with individuals who have been forced to relocate

from their homes due to extreme weather occurrences.

• Almost 85% of Australians fear the potential affordability crisis of insurance as extreme weather events worsen.

Dr. Grant Blashki, a practicing General Practitioner and Climate Council Fellow, remarked on the gravity of the situation: “This summer’s erratic weather patterns have plunged communities into a whirlwind of danger, alternating between perilous downpours and record-breaking heat. It’s no wonder Australians

are apprehensive about the future safety of their homes and families.”

Blashki continued, emphasizing the profound impact of forced relocation: “The fear of displacement is well-founded, with one in ten Australians already having experienced upheaval due to extreme weather events. This upheaval extends beyond physical displacement; it disrupts the invaluable support networks and community ties that people rely on.”

Addressing the challenges faced by communities, Major

General Peter Dunn, a member of Emergency Leaders for Climate Action, highlighted the urgent need for resources and preparation:

“Communities across Australia are grappling with a relentless barrage of extreme weather events fueled by climate change. The frustration is palpable as many have lost homes and loved ones, underscoring the critical need for resources to prepare and recover from these disasters.”

Dunn emphasized proactive measures: “We must shift our focus from responding to

emergencies to investing in preparedness and prevention. By empowering communities with the necessary resources and information, we can mitigate risks and safeguard lives and properties from the devastating impacts of climate-fueled disasters.”

The polling, conducted by YouGov with a nationally representative sample of 1,568 Australians, aimed to gauge the impact of climate change and extreme weather events on the wellbeing of Australians.

A house in Lismore burst into fames as the residents were rescued via boat in the nick of time. Picture- Facebook

Streamlining Genomic Testing for Cow-Calf Producers: A Gateway to Confdent Decision-Making

In the intricate world of cattle ranching, every producer faces their strengths and weaknesses. However, with the evolving landscape of technology and resources, there are now viable options available to bridge these gaps effectively. Whether it’s delving into research, embracing technological advancements, outsourcing tasks, or delegating responsibilities, the journey to improvement is multifaceted.

Navigating the myriad variables of cow-calf production can often pose challenges, leaving producers grappling with decision-making uncertainties. Yet, in 2024, ranchers fnd themselves armed with an array of tools to bolster their confdence in managing their operations, with genomic testing emerging as a pivotal asset. Nick Hammett, Key Accounts Manager for Neogen®, sheds light on how genomic testing, such

as Igenity® Beef, is revolutionizing decisionmaking processes for commercial cow-calf producers, as highlighted in Season 7, Episode

11 of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast. Traditionally associated with seedstock operations, genomic testing has now transcended its boundaries, proving to be invaluable for operations of all sizes.

“I think that’s maybe one of the biggest values of genomics is that you don’t have to be

a seedstock operator,” notes Hammett. With a mere tissue sample from the animal’s ear, genomic testing unveils a wealth of information by scrutinizing the animal’s genome, offering insights into production characteristics and genetic profles.

Once the tissue samples undergo analysis, producers receive comprehensive reports encompassing 17 different traits and 3 indexes. While these scores do not constitute true EPDs,

they empower producers to make informed decisions when selecting replacement heifers, purchasing bulls, and even marketing opportunities. “The best starting point with the greatest return on investment is testing your potential replacement females to make more accurate decisions on which ones will stay in the herd longer,” Hammett emphasizes.

Moreover, genomic testing extends its benefts to bull selection,

enabling commercial cattlemen to make discerning purchases with confdence. By objectively measuring strengths and weaknesses, producers can hone in on areas requiring improvement and align their breeding decisions accordingly.

Seedstock producers, in turn, play a pivotal role in guiding their commercial counterparts towards sounder purchasing decisions.

While genomic testing may not feature prominently in

NFF Urges Parliament to Side with Farmers Against Controversial Biosecurity Levy

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is issuing a resounding call to parliamentarians to stand in solidarity with Australian farmers as the contentious Biosecurity Protection Levy undergoes scrutiny in the House of Representatives March 19.

NFF President David Jochinke has emphasized the pressing need for politicians to prioritize the welfare of farmers amidst ongoing debates surrounding the levy. Despite mounting evidence indicating the levy’s inadequacy and advocating for its abolition, the Government possesses the necessary support to pass it through the lower house.

“We urge Senators to exercise prudence and halt the progression of this legislation, affording them the opportunity

to heed the extensive criticism directed towards this fawed policy,” Mr. Jochinke asserted.

The opposition to the Biosecurity Protection Levy extends beyond Australia’s 85,000 farmers, with notable dissent from entities

such as the Productivity Commission, the Australian National University, the Offce of Impact Analysis, and even importers.

“While the progression of this legislation was never desired, the optimal scenario would entail its referral to the

Senate Committee for thorough examination,” Mr. Jochinke continued.

“This procedural step would allow for adequate time and analysis to address the legitimate concerns raised by farmers.”

He emphasized that Australian farmers

operational budgets, its impact on effciency and productivity cannot be overstated. By selectively breeding heifers with optimal maternal traits, performance, and feed effciency, producers can mitigate input costs and enhance overall proftability. Hammett draws a parallel to variable rate application in farming, underscoring the transformative potential of genomics in driving down costs and optimizing resource allocation.

As the spring calf crop arrives, producers are urged to contemplate the transformative potential of genomic testing in enhancing herd performance and bottom-line proftability. In an era defned by technological advancement, embracing genomic testing emerges as a strategic imperative for cow-calf producers striving for operational excellence and sustainability.

SIDE BAR

already shoulder substantial fnancial burdens through existing levies, which encompass biosecurity spending and the management of on-farm pests and diseases introduced by importers and travellers’. Introducing an additional tax dedicated to biosecurity services places undue strain on farmers and effectively subsidizes foreign competitors who import food products into Australia.

“In addition to deviating from standard policy design and tax practices, this levy fundamentally undermines principles of fairness,” Mr. Jochinke concluded, urging Senators to act in the best interests of Australian farmers and ensure equitable outcomes in biosecurity policy.

1. NFF’s Appeal to Parliament: The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is calling on politicians to support Australian farmers by halting the progression of the controversial Biosecurity Protection Levy in Parliament.

2. Flawed Policy

Criticism: Despite mounting evidence suggesting the levy’s inadequacy, the Government possesses the necessary numbers to pass it through the lower house. Opposition to the levy extends beyond farmers to include entities such as the Productivity Commission, the Australian National University, and even importers.

3. Fairness

Concerns: The introduction of an additional tax for biosecurity services places undue fnancial strain on farmers, who already shoulder signifcant fnancial

Mexico

Mexico, a country rich in vibrant culture, historical landscapes, and breathtaking natural beauty, stands as a quintessential destination for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From the sun-kissed beaches of Cancun to the bustling streets of Mexico City and the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan, Mexico offers a diverse palette of experiences. This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with essential insights, tips, and must-see destinations for your journey to this enchanting land.

Mexican culture is a beautiful tapestry woven from indigenous traditions and Spanish colonial infuences, evident in its music, dance, art, and, most notably, its cuisine. To truly experience Mexico, one must dive into its local markets, savour street food delicacies like tacos, tamales, and pozole, and enjoy the lively mariachi performances that fll the air with vibrant rhythms.

• Mexico City: The heart of Mexico, where modernity meets history. The Zocalo, Chapultepec Park, and the Frida Kahlo Museum are must-visits. The city’s culinary scene, ranging from street food stalls to gourmet restaurants, offers a taste of the country’s rich favours.

• Cancun and the Riviera Maya: Known for their crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, these destinations are perfect for relaxation and water sports. Explore the Mayan ruins of Tulum, dive in the Great Maya Reef, or experience the nightlife in Playa del Carmen.

• Oaxaca: A cultural gem, Oaxaca is renowned for its indigenous cultures, colourful textiles, and exquisite culinary tradition. Don’t miss the ancient ruins of Monte Albán and the vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations if you’re visiting in late October to early November.

• Guadalajara: The birthplace of mariachi music and tequila, Guadalajara offers a mix of colonial architecture and contemporary art scenes. The nearby town of Tequila is essential for those interested

in learning about the production of Mexico’s most famous beverage.

• Chiapas: For the adventurous, Chiapas offers lush jungles, cascading waterfalls, and the ancient Mayan city of Palenque. The Sumidero Canyon and the colonial city of San Cristobal de las Casas are also highlights.

TRAVEL TIPS

• Language: Spanish is the offcial language. Learning basic phrases can enhance your experience, though many people in tourist areas speak English.

• Currency: The Mexican Peso (MXN) is the currency. ATMs are widely available, but carrying some cash is advisable, especially in remote areas.

• Safety: While Mexico is generally safe for tourists, it’s important to stay informed about your destination, avoid risky areas, especially at night,

and follow local advice.

• Transportation: Mexico offers a range of transportation options, including buses, which are a popular and affordable way to travel between cities, and domestic fights for longer distances. In cities, ride-sharing apps and taxis are convenient ways to get around.

• Climate: Mexico’s climate varies from arid to tropical, depending on the region and altitude. Coastal areas are typically warm year-round, while the highlands can be cooler. The rainy season runs from May to October, so plan accordingly.

CULTURAL ETIQUETTE

Respect and understanding are key when travelling. In Mexico, polite greetings are important, and punctuality is fexible, especially in social settings. Bargaining

in markets is common but should be done respectfully. Tipping is customary, ranging from 10% to 15% in restaurants and for other services.

CULINARY JOURNEY

Mexican cuisine is a highlight of any trip. Beyond tacos and tequila, each region boasts its specialties, such as mole in Oaxaca and ceviche in the coastal areas. Street food is not only delicious but also an integral part of Mexican culture. However, it’s wise to eat at busy stalls to ensure freshness.

PREPARING FOR YOUR TRIP

Before departure, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Travellers from many countries do not need a visa for stays of up

to 180 days, but it’s essential to check the latest entry requirements. Travel insurance is highly recommended.

ITS TIME TO HEAD OFF TO MEXICO

Travelling to Mexico offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a country flled with rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality. By immersing yourself in its culture, respecting its traditions, and embracing the adventure, you’re sure to leave with memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s the ancient pyramids, the bustling cities, the serene beaches, or the delicious cuisine that draws you, Mexico promises an experience flled with wonder and excitement. So, pack your bags, bring an open heart, and prepare to explore the vibrant soul of the country of Mexico.

EMBRACING THE CULTURE KEY

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Max Crus is a Clarence Valley-based wine writer and Grape Expectations is now in its 27th year of publication. Find out more about Max or sign up for his weekly reviews and musings by visiting maxcrus.com.au

Honey, I shrunk the cereal.

Shrinkfation. Is there a more clumsy, ugly, awkward word?

Of course, there are many : discombobulation, for one, and economists are particularly good at them which reminds us of Macquarie Dictionary’s Word of the Year last year ‘Cosi-livs’. Yes, stupid word that no-one has ever uttered except journalists telling us about Macquarie Dictionary’s lost direction.

Typically too, ‘shrinkfation’, like anything from the economic faculty of the

Patrick Limestone Coast

P-Series Field Blend

Rosé 2023, $20. Imagine pouring this on a bowl of maybe not Coco Pops but muesli? A riot of colour and the favours might work too. Suitably dry and the label suggests strawberries and cream. Sounds like breakfast to

School of Hard Knocks, tells us the truth but is not helpful in any way. Indeed anything from that discipline should be accompanied by the warning “past performance is no indicator of future performance”, although paradoxically in the case of economic forecasts they actually are…ie they’ve never forecast anything of worth, least of all when bad things might happen, eg Great Depression, global fnancial crisis, how long interest rates would remain low…sorry Philip.

Patrick Limestone Coast ‘P-Series’ Shiraz 2017, $20. How good is that having the winery precellar their reds and thus embodying that slightly aged French bistro appeal. Let your mind and heart wander as you sip this on the left bank of the Murray. Great value. 9.4/10.

So, what is shrinkfation?

In a world not short on crises, eg Taylor Swift leaving the country and Kate photoshopping some wrinkles, and okay Gaza, Ukraine, Navalny and Trump, shrinkfation is defnitely up there. It’s the insidious behaviour of Big Cereal in cahoots with Big Supermarkets to hoodwink consumers in the quest for ever-bigger profts and stomachs.

Yes, a number of big-brand cereals have been quietly reducing their packaging size

‘P-Series’ Cabernet

Sauvignon, 2019, $20. Not quite the agedness of the shiraz but perhaps in a few years? More Rundle Street Adelaide than the Champs Élysées, which is fne depending on where you are already. 9.3/10.

Stockman’s Ridge Wines Signature Range

(sometimes, more correctly, reducing the contents’ weight inside packets of the same dimensions) while simultaneously raising the price (perhaps also the sugar content), thus, co-incidentally, discombobulating the cereal-munching public who are mushrooms until Choice, or in this case, Deakin Uni, point it out, pouring scorn, if not milk on the perpetrators.

The perennially popular poo-performance enhancing Sultana Bran has been dropped right in

Sauvignon/Merlot) 2022, $40. This is a kid’s chemistry set range, each wine mixing a different combination of three elements to see which one will burn through steel or blow things up. Such winery fun. The pick of the blends for moi, and I would have stopped blending

it as the worst offender for packaging shrinkage, adding more cred to the body building credo of steroid-takers - something to do with nuts - which segues nicely to another ‘worst’ offender, Crunchy Nuts, whose price rose the steepest, in exact reverse correlation to the nutritional value of the stuff. Sugar is the secondlisted ingredient and the packet contains the warning “May contain traces of nuts”, which is about right.

Yet another startling development in the

Stockman’s Ridge Wines Signature Range ‘Right Bank’ (Merlot/ Cabernet Franc) 2022, $40. The Mama Bear of the Signature Range champions the merlot at 70% and makes the blend just a shade softer than the solo franc, a shade less franc to be frank. 9.4/10.

developing world is that everything is getting more expensive, to which Kellogg’s has helpfully responded that we should eat cereal for dinner.

Ah, brings back memories of Uni’ days and share houses, and who stole the milk, and since many of us enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, serendipitously legitimising something few ever have consciously considered, wine with (or on) cereal.

Hmm, what’s a wine that goes with Coco Pops?

Orange Signature Range Cabernet Franc 2022, $40. Cabernet franc is not commonly seen on its own, the lesser sibling to sauvignon often used as a blender, so it’s a treat to taste its contribution to claret blends. Better have another glass for scientifc

Max Crus

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

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

BEEF AND CHICKPEA KORMA

10m prep

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• 500g lean beef mince

• 1 brown onion, chopped

20m cook

• 4cm piece fresh ginger, peeled, fnely grated

• 1/3 cup korma curry paste

8 servings

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

METHOD

841 calories

1. Heat oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Add mince. Cook, breaking up mince with a wooden spoon, for 5 minutes or until browned. Add brown onion. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until onion

CREAMY CHICKEN CARBONARA

10m prep

15m cook

4 servings 1184 calories

INGREDIENTS

• 500g Penne

• 1 tbsp Olive Oil

• 500g Chicken Breast Fillets, cut into 2cm pieces

• 250g short-cut bacon rashers, sliced

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 cup (250ml) Chicken stock

• 2 Egg yolks

• 3/4 cup (185ml) thickened cream

• 1 tbsp Cornfour

• 1/2 cup (40g) parmesan, fnely grated

• 2 tbsp fat-leaf parsley, chopped

METHOD

1. Cook the Penne in a saucepan of boiling water following packet directions. Drain.

PROSPECTA UTILITIES STRIKES $8M DEAL

A Queensland family that transformed the land lease industry is moving into the communications and renewable energy space, with an $8 million investment in world-first 5G mm wave fixed wireless access network technology.

The Puljich family, behind the 3072-home GemLife and Living Gems portfolios, is bringing the disruptive technology to Australia under its new business, Prospecta Utilities.

Challenging fibre-to-the-premise offerings and traditional telecommunications providers, it will allow non-carriers to establish their own enterprise networks.

Prospecta Utilities has struck a deal with American software and hardware provider Airspan Networks Holdings for the first 500 units of the groundbreaking AIR5G 7200 5G radio technology, a stand-alone solution that

Thinking Real Estate. Think TCR

can network multiple homes, devices and technologies enabling intelligent cities.

GemLife resorts will be the first in the world to access the new technology, with a pilot of 97 homes at GemLife Tweed Waters in the first quarter of 2024, before it is deployed across all 14,000 existing and future homes across the 30 resorts in the portfolios by 2028.

Prospecta Utilities is also in discussions with developers and asset owners across the multiresidential, retirement, commercial, retail, industrial, agricultural, sports, education and private health spaces to install the new technology, which is available across three offerings to suit various applications.

Prospecta Utilities chief executive officer Mark Langdon said the technology was a game changer in Australia and internationally, offering a future-proof alternative to traditional networks.

“This new technology delivers fast, low-latency and reliable connectivity at speeds up to 2GB per

second, while providing a cost-effective solution and future readiness,” he said.

“While traditional fibre services Wi-Fi only, radio networks allow connection to various devices and technologies, redefining the way industries like logistics, warehousing, transportation, agriculture, renewables and manufacturing manage robotics and advanced equipment.

“Its ability to enhance automation and digital transformation improves operational efficiencies and drives growth, with its applications only set to increase as new technologies get up to speed.

“In a fast-evolving technological environment, it is capable of servicing a future that doesn’t yet exist, with innovative businesses investing now poised to have the first-mover advantage.”

GemLife Director and Chief Executive Officer, Adrian Puljich, said continuous innovation was vital for all businesses operating in the modern environment,

including its GemLife and Living Gems resorts.

He said the new technology would ensure a quality experience for its residents and the operational efficiency of the land lease communities.

“We see the opportunity to connect amenities and infrastructure in our own resorts to improve systems and experiences, from irrigation sensors that enhance sustainability by only watering when required to automated buggies to transport residents and a digital concierge and fully integrated energy management,” he said.

“Investing in private enterprise networks future proofs our resorts, meaning our offerings for residents can easily evolve alongside emerging technology, using advancements to enhance lifestyle and well-being.

“In the immediate term, residents will enjoy seamless internet connection to their homes, at a more affordable rate. Connecting each home to this technology is about 40 per cent cheaper than

traditional fibre.”

Mr Puljich said the technology would also offer environmental and safety advantages during construction of the resorts, with plans to deploy the network as its 553-home GemLife Moreton Bay resort in South-East Queensland came to life.

“During construction, we’ll be able to use the technology to monitor safety and air quality, by networking individual machinery, tracking UV exposure levels for our workers and dust levels,” he said.

Prospecta Utilities is also making headway in the renewable energy sector, offering customised Virtual Power Plants (VPP) to better utilise solar power, reducing running costs and providing lower electricity bills for homeowners.

That technology has already been rolled-out across several GemLife resorts, which are now up to 90 per cent energy independent while saving residents more than 60 per cent on their power bills.

Small business sector, agriculture now enduring ACCC priority

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) recently unveiled its compliance and enforcement priorities for the 202425 period, marking a significant shift by including protection for small businesses, including agriculture, as a steadfast focus for the first time.

In alignment with its commitment to upholding competition and consumer laws and small business industry codes of conduct, the ACCC is dedicated to ensuring that these

safeguards extend to small businesses and the agriculture sector. Furthermore, the ACCC will prioritize addressing competition, fair trading, consumer protection, and pricing concerns within the supermarket sector, with a specific emphasis on food and groceries during the 2024-25 period. This renewed emphasis on the supermarket sector arises from notable price hikes observed in food and groceries, coupled with the expressed concerns of Australian consumers and farmers regarding

supermarket pricing practices. In response to these concerns, the government issued a directive in January for the ACCC to conduct a comprehensive 12-month price inquiry into competition within the supermarket and grocery sector. This inquiry tasks the ACCC with conducting a detailed examination of supermarket pricing practices and investigating the relationship between wholesale prices, including farmgate prices received by farmers, and retail prices charged

by supermarkets to consumers.

Additionally, addressing unfair contract terms in consumer and small business contracts remains a key enforcement priority for the ACCC. The introduction of penalties for unfair contract terms has prompted proactive adjustments by numerous businesses to their standard form agreements.

A concise summary of the ACCC’s priorities for the 2024-25 period is available via the QR code below.

Michael Smith 0413 454 350 michael.smith@tcre.net.au

Kaeren Smith 0412 454 150 kaeren.smith@tcre.net.au

By Homelessness NSW

Homelessness NSW is urging the state government to spend $1 billion each year for a decade to double the supply of social housing by 2050.

Homelessness NSW

CEO Dominique Rowe said the state must build 5,000 dwellings annually to lift NSW’s share of social housing from one in 20 to one in 10 homes.

“NSW has failed to invest in social housing for decades. Last year, just one-ffth of people seeking help from homelessness services could fnd long-term accommodation,” she said.

“Our ability to give NSW’s most vulnerable communities a roof over their heads is falling while housing stress and homelessness soar.

“Right now, many of the 57,000 households on the social housing waitlist are forced to wait up to a decade for a safe and stable place to call home.

“Investing in social

housing will not only save lives but pay dividends by easing pressure on health, community and justice services in the long run.”

In its budget submission, Homelessness NSW warns frontline services risked staff cuts and closure without a 20% funding boost.

“Underfunded frontline providers are being fooded with calls for help and forced to turn away one in every two people who need accommodation. Services will be unable to keep staff on or their doors open without more

funding,” Ms Rowe said.

“Even for people who get through the door, help is limited. Half of those who need temporary or crisis accommodation cannot access it. That means women and children are forced to return to violent partners, seek shelter in a vehicle, on a couch or the street.”

Homelessness NSW is calling for $30 million over three years to provide more temporary accommodation and ensure one-ffth was reserved for women and children experiencing domestic violence.

It also urged the

government to develop a dedicated approach to ending homelessness among Aboriginal communities.

“It is unacceptable that we have failed to reduce the rate of homelessness among Aboriginal people who account for a third of those receiving help from frontline services in NSW,” Ms Rowe said.

“The solutions must be led by Aboriginal people and investment is needed in Aboriginal organisations and across the whole sector to support this work.”

Homelessness NSW is calling for:

1. $1 billion annually

for the next decade to build 5,000 social houses per year, allocating 30% of stock to Aboriginal people;

2. A 20% funding boost for specialist homelessness services, or $64 million a year for two years;

3. Funding for homelessness provider contracts to be indexed at 6.2% to keep pace with the cost of service delivery;

4. $30 million over three years to secure additional temporary accommodation, including 20% reserved for women and children experiencing domestic violence;

5. $62 million over three years to extend the state’s Together Home program;

6. The development of an Aboriginal-led approach to ending homelessness, including ensuring providers are culturally competent;

7. $1.2 million for nonresidents experiencing homelessness;

8. $1.8 million in housing support for people aged 55 or older;

9. Adequate funding for a dedicated youth homelessness plan.

By Jeff Gibbs

The 2024 Polestar 2 continues to assert itself as a formidable contender in the electric vehicle (EV) market, blending striking design, advanced technology, and sustainable performance. As the second iteration of Polestar’s all-electric fastback, the 2024 model builds upon its predecessor’s strengths while introducing notable enhancements across various facets of the vehicle.

Design and Exterior

The Polestar 2’s design ethos embodies a harmonious fusion of Scandinavian minimalism and contemporary aesthetics.

The 2024 model retains the sleek silhouette and clean lines that distinguish it on the road, showcasing a refned yet assertive presence.

Notable updates include refreshed exterior colour options and subtle refnements to the front and rear fascia’s, further enhancing its visual appeal and modern allure.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the 2024 Polestar 2, and you’re greeted by a

2024 Polestar 2 Review

meticulously crafted interior that prioritizes both luxury and sustainability. Premium materials, such as vegan leather and recycled textiles, adorn the cabin, creating an ambiance of refned elegance. Ample space for passengers and cargo ensures comfort and practicality, making it an ideal choice for daily commuting or long journeys. The intuitive infotainment system, powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS, offers seamless connectivity and access to a plethora of smart features, including voiceactivated commands and personalized settings.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Underneath its stylish

exterior lies the heart of the Polestar 2 - a potent electric powertrain that delivers exhilarating performance and dynamic handling.

The 2024 model offers multiple powertrain confgurations, including a dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive, capable of propelling the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in just over 4 seconds. Adaptive suspension and precise steering contribute to a composed and engaging driving experience, whether navigating city streets or tackling winding roads. With an estimated range of over 250 miles on a single charge, the Polestar 2 provides practicality without compromising on performance.

Safety and Technology

Safety remains a top priority for Polestar, and the 2024 Polestar 2 comes equipped with an array of advanced safety features and driver assistance systems. Standard features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, providing peace of mind and enhancing overall safety on the road. Cutting-edge technology, such as a 360-degree camera system and blind-spot monitoring, further augments situational awareness and mitigates potential risks.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

As a leading proponent

a benchmark for ecoconscious automotive design and innovation.

Conclusion

In summary, the 2024 Polestar 2 exemplifes the future of electric mobility, combining cutting-edge technology, sustainable design, and exhilarating performance in a sleek and sophisticated package. With its

of sustainable mobility, Polestar places a strong emphasis on minimizing its environmental footprint throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle. The 2024 Polestar 2 exemplifes this commitment through its use of eco-friendly materials, energyeffcient manufacturing processes, and carbonneutral operations. By prioritizing sustainability without compromising on performance or luxury, Polestar sets

refned aesthetics, advanced features, and eco-friendly ethos, the Polestar 2 stands out as a compelling choice for discerning drivers seeking a premium electric driving experience. As Polestar continues to push the boundaries of innovation and sustainability, the Polestar 2 reaffrms its position as a standout contender in the competitive EV landscape.

Isuzu D-Max Electric Ute Confrmed for Australia

By Jeff Gibbs

In a signifcant development for the Australian automotive market, Isuzu has confrmed the introduction of the electric variant of its iconic D-Max ute. This move underscores Isuzu’s commitment to sustainable mobility and aligns with the global trend towards

electrifcation in the automotive industry. Electric Powertrain and Performance

The Isuzu D-Max Electric Ute is set to feature an advanced electric powertrain, offering drivers an environmentally friendly alternative without compromising on performance or capability. While specifc details

regarding the electric drivetrain are yet to be disclosed, Isuzu has indicated that the electric variant will retain the D-Max’s renowned towing and off-road capabilities, ensuring it meets the demands of both urban and rural customers.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

By introducing the electric

variant of the D-Max, Isuzu aims to reduce carbon emissions and minimize the environmental footprint associated with traditional internal combustion engines. Electric vehicles (EVs) inherently produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them an ecofriendly transportation solution. Additionally, the D-Max Electric Ute is expected to leverage sustainable manufacturing practices and materials, further contributing to its environmental credentials.

Market Response and Consumer Expectations

The announcement of the Isuzu D-Max Electric Ute has generated considerable anticipation among Australian consumers, particularly those seeking an electric vehicle option in the popular utility segment. With the increasing focus on sustainability and the growing demand for electric vehicles, Isuzu’s decision to introduce an electric variant of its fagship D-Max model

is well-timed and aligns with evolving consumer preferences.

Infrastructure and Charging Network

As the electric vehicle market continues to expand, the availability of charging infrastructure plays a crucial role in facilitating widespread adoption. Isuzu is expected to collaborate with stakeholders to develop an extensive charging network across Australia, ensuring D-Max Electric Ute owners have convenient access to charging stations for their daily commuting and long-distance travel needs.

Conclusion

The confrmation of the

Isuzu D-Max Electric

Ute for the Australian market represents a signifcant milestone in Isuzu’s journey towards sustainable mobility. By combining the practicality and versatility of the D-Max with an advanced electric powertrain, Isuzu aims to offer consumers a compelling electric vehicle option that meets their diverse needs and preferences. As anticipation builds for its offcial launch, the Isuzu D-Max Electric Ute is poised to make a notable impact on the Australian automotive landscape, ushering in a new era of electrifcation in the utility segment.

Tesla’s Cybertruck: A Bold Vision or Missed Opportunity for Australian Roads

By Jeff Gibbs

Tesla’s ground-breaking electric pick-up truck, the Cybertruck, has fnally made its debut on US roads, but with no confrmed plans for an Australian release, the question arises: Are we really missing out?

Amidst the fervent debate surrounding electric vehicles, the Tesla Cybertruck stands out as a polarizing fgure, capturing attention and curiosity despite being relatively inaccessible to most. While eager Australian enthusiasts await news of its potential arrival Down

Under, the Cybertruck has already begun its journey into the hands of American buyers, sparking intrigue and speculation about its capabilities and practicality.

Priced from $US60,990 for the entry-level Rear-Wheel Drive model, the Cybertruck’s cost has seen a notable increase since its initial unveiling, now reaching up to $US99,990 for the top-tier Cyberbeast tri-motor version.

Despite the price hike,

demand remains strong, indicating a willingness among consumers to embrace Tesla’s innovative approach to electric vehicles.

The Cybertruck boasts impressive driving ranges, with the singlemotor RWD model offering a claimed range of 402km, while the dual-motor AWD and tri-motor Cyberbeast models offer up to 547km and 515km respectively. However, with Australian orders closed and no confrmation of a

right-hand drive variant, local enthusiasts can only watch and wait in anticipation of potential future availability.

For those fortunate enough to experience the Cybertruck frsthand, its presence on the road commands attention and fascination. In truckcentric Texas, where traditional pick-ups like the Ford F-150 reign supreme, the Cybertruck stands out as a futuristic anomaly, drawing admiration and curiosity wherever it goes.

Despite its eye-catching

design and impressive performance, the Cybertruck’s practicality for everyday use remains a subject of debate. While its acceleration and driving dynamics impress, concerns arise over its interior quality, handling, and ride comfort, particularly in urban environments.

Critics point to its unconventional design, lack of refnement, and limited practicality compared to traditional pick-up trucks, raising questions about its suitability for mass

to invest in a Tesla Cybertruck hinges on individual preferences and priorities. While its radical design and cutting-edge technology appeal to avant-garde enthusiasts, practical considerations such as comfort, usability, and affordability may deter others.

By Jeff Gibbs

In a move hinting at a signifcant shift in its lineup, Mazda has reportedly trademarked the name ‘Mazda 6e’ in Europe, fuelling speculation about the development of an electric successor to its popular Mazda 6 sedan. This development underscores Mazda’s commitment to embracing electrifcation and aligning with the growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions.

Transition to Electric Powertrain

The potential introduction of the ‘Mazda 6e’ signals Mazda’s readiness to transition from traditional internal combustion engines to electric powertrains. With the automotive industry witnessing a paradigm shift towards electrifcation, Mazda aims to position itself as a frontrunner in the electric vehicle (EV) segment by offering consumers an eco-friendly alternative without compromising on performance or driving dynamics.

Sustainability and Environmental Focus

By exploring the electric avenue with the Mazda 6e, Mazda demonstrates its dedication to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. Electric vehicles inherently produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment. The introduction of the Mazda 6e aligns with Mazda’s broader sustainability goals and commitment to minimizing its environmental footprint throughout its product line-up.

Market Response and Anticipation

The trademarking of the ‘Mazda 6e’ name has sparked anticipation among automotive enthusiasts and industry observers, who eagerly await further details about Mazda’s electric sedan offering. The Mazda 6 has long been acclaimed for its stylish design, refned driving experience, and advanced features. The prospect of an electric

successor in the form of the Mazda 6e generates excitement, especially among consumers seeking an electric vehicle option in the midsize sedan segment.

Innovation and Technological Advancements

The potential introduction of the Mazda 6e represents a signifcant step forward for Mazda in terms of innovation

adoption. However, for early adopters like cybersecurity specialist Shaheen Badiyan, the Cybertruck represents a bold statement and a glimpse into the future of automotive innovation.

Ultimately, the decision

As the Cybertruck continues to make waves in the automotive industry, its impact on the future of electric vehicles and consumer preferences remains to be seen. Whether it will revolutionize the pick-up truck market or remain a niche novelty, one thing is certain: the Tesla Cybertruck has sparked a new era of innovation and exploration in the automotive world.

Electric Mazda 6 Successor on the Horizon

and technological advancements. Electric vehicles offer numerous benefts, including instant torque delivery, smooth and silent operation, and reduced maintenance requirements. Mazda is expected to leverage its expertise in engineering and design to deliver a compelling electric sedan that combines driving pleasure with environmental

responsibility.

Conclusion

While details about the Mazda 6e remain scarce, the trademarking of its name in Europe suggests that Mazda is actively exploring the development of an electric successor to its acclaimed Mazda 6 sedan. As Mazda continues to embrace electrifcation and innovation, the Mazda 6e holds the

promise of delivering a compelling electric sedan option that embodies Mazda’s trademark blend of style, performance, and sustainability. With anticipation building for its potential debut, the Mazda 6e has the potential to make a signifcant impact in the electric vehicle market and reinforce Mazda’s position as a leader in sustainable mobility.

The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably left a profound and lasting impact on societies worldwide, casting a long shadow that continues to infuence our daily lives, economies, and collective psyche.

As we navigate the complex challenges and uncertainties brought about by the pandemic, its effects reverberate across multiple facets of our existence, shaping our present realities and shaping the trajectory of our future.

Healthcare Crisis:

First and foremost, COVID-19 has exposed vulnerabilities within healthcare systems globally, testing their resilience and capacity to respond to public health emergencies. The overwhelming infux of patients, shortages of medical supplies and personnel, and the strain on healthcare infrastructure have underscored the need for robust preparedness and proactive measures

COVID Casts a Long Shadow

to address future health crises effectively.

Economic Disruption:

The pandemic has unleashed unprecedented economic disruption, triggering widespread job losses, business closures, and fnancial instability. Supply chain disruptions, reduced consumer spending, and fuctuations in global markets have exacerbated economic inequalities and pushed millions into poverty, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive recovery strategies and support mechanisms for vulnerable populations.

Social Impacts:

Socially, COVID-19 has brought about profound shifts in how we interact, communicate, and connect with one another. Physical distancing measures, lockdowns, and travel restrictions have reshaped social norms and behaviors, leading to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and mental health challenges.

The pandemic has

also laid bare existing social inequities, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities and exacerbating underlying societal divisions.

Educational Transformation: The education sector has undergone rapid transformation in response to the pandemic, with widespread school closures and the adoption of remote learning modalities. While technology has enabled

continuity of learning, the digital divide has widened, exacerbating disparities in access to quality education and exacerbating existing educational inequalities.

Environmental Repercussions: Despite temporary reductions in pollution levels during lockdowns, the pandemic has underscored the interconnectedness of human health and the environment. Zoonotic diseases like COVID-19 highlight the risks associated with habitat

destruction, wildlife trade, and unsustainable land-use practices, emphasizing the need for a more holistic approach to environmental stewardship and biodiversity conservation.

Resilience and Adaptation: Amidst the challenges posed by COVID-19, stories of resilience, innovation, and community solidarity have emerged, demonstrating humanity’s capacity to adapt and persevere in

the face of adversity. From frontline healthcare workers risking their lives to save others to grassroots initiatives providing essential support to vulnerable populations, the pandemic has sparked acts of compassion, empathy, and collective action.

As we continue to grapple with the far-reaching effects of COVID-19, it is imperative that we draw upon the lessons learned from this crisis to forge a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient future. By prioritizing investments in public health infrastructure, fostering social cohesion, promoting economic recovery strategies that prioritize inclusivity and sustainability, and addressing systemic inequities, we can emerge from the shadow of COVID-19 stronger, more united, and better prepared to confront the challenges of tomorrow.

Unlocking the Benefts of Pets in Aged Care Facilities: A Call for Change

Despite extensive research highlighting the numerous benefts of having pets in aged care facilities, surprisingly few establishments are open to the idea of allowing furry companions as residents – a stance experts strongly advocate needs to change.

The comforting sound of four paws with claws gently padding down the corridors of an aged care home is a source of joy for many residents. However, in Australia, this heart-warming scene is regrettably rare. Despite our nation’s reputation as animal lovers, only 18% of aged care homes consider permitting residents to keep pets, as revealed by the Aged Care Survey Results 2023 from the Companion Animal Network Australia (CANA).

This statistic is particularly striking when juxtaposed with the fnding that 86% of individuals believe older adults experience enhanced mental and physical health through interactions with pets in

aged care facilities.

The decision to transition into residential care is often fraught with emotional challenges, both for the individual and their loved ones. This decision becomes infnitely more diffcult when someone is compelled to bid farewell to their cherished ‘fur’ family member.

Preserving the bond

between people and their pets yields the optimal health outcomes for both parties involved.

Abundant research underscores the myriad physical and mental health benefts individuals derive from the unwavering companionship of a pet, including reduced blood pressure, alleviated anxiety, and

improved heart health. Furthermore, adhering to established routines with pets can mitigate symptoms of depression and potentially slow the progression of dementia. Veterinary advisor at PetSure, emphasizes the importance of education in fostering understanding among aged care providers regarding the profound

benefts of the humananimal bond for senior Australians.

“Whether achieved through public education campaigns, research initiatives, or the development of tailored programs and resources for the aged care sector, there are numerous avenues to underscore the array of positive impacts companion

animals offer the elderly,” says Dr. Chan.

“Permitting pets to reside in retirement homes alongside their owners could not only attract a broader range of residents to these facilities but, more crucially, it could signifcantly enhance the emotional and physical wellbeing of those residing within them.”

By Jeff Gibbs

Experience Matters: The Great Unretirement

In recent years, a notable trend has emerged among seniors across the globe: the rise of unretirement. Contrary to conventional expectations of retirement as a period of relaxation and leisure, an increasing number of older adults are choosing to remain active in the workforce, pursuing new opportunities, and leveraging their wealth of experience to make meaningful contributions to society.

The phenomenon of unretirement refects a shift in attitudes towards aging and work, driven by a combination of economic, social, and personal factors. As life expectancies continue to rise and traditional notions of retirement become less feasible for many individuals, the concept of retiring at a fxed age is being redefned. Instead, seniors are embracing the idea of ongoing engagement, continued learning, and purposeful work well into their later years. There are several reasons why individuals are

The advantages of elderly individuals having pets are numerous and impactful, benefting both their physical and mental well-being:

Companionship: Pets provide constant companionship, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common among the elderly, especially those living alone or in care facilities.

Emotional Support:

opting for unretirement:

1. Financial Security: In an era of economic uncertainty and rising living costs, many seniors are choosing to extend their working years to bolster their fnancial security and ensure a comfortable retirement.

2. Health and Wellbeing: Research suggests that staying active and engaged in meaningful work can have numerous health

Pets offer unconditional love and support, providing a sense of purpose and meaning to their owners’ lives. The bond formed between an elderly individual and their pet can be deeply rewarding and therapeutic.

Physical Activity: Caring for a pet, such as walking a dog or playing with a cat, encourages physical activity and exercise, which is

benefts, including improved cognitive function, physical health, and overall wellbeing.

3. Lifelong Learning: For many seniors, the desire to continue learning and growing remains strong throughout their lives. By remaining in the workforce, older adults have the opportunity to acquire new skills, stay abreast of industry trends, and contribute their knowledge and

essential for maintaining mobility, fexibility, and overall health in older adults.

Stress Reduction: Interacting with pets has been shown to lower stress levels and decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression. The act of petting a dog or cat can release feelgood hormones such as oxytocin and serotonin, promoting relaxation and emotional well-being.

expertise to new projects and initiatives.

4. Social Connection: Work provides a valuable source of social interaction and camaraderie for many individuals. By remaining employed, seniors can maintain connections with colleagues, clients, and peers, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness often associated with retirement.

Routine and Structure: Pets thrive on routine, and caring for them can help elderly individuals establish and maintain daily routines, providing a sense of structure and stability in their lives.

Social Interaction:

Owning a pet can facilitate social interaction and connection with others, as pets often serve as conversation starters and can help break down barriers between people,

5. Sense of Purpose: Engaging in meaningful work can provide seniors with a sense of purpose and fulfllment, allowing them to make a positive impact in their communities and leave a lasting legacy. The rise of unretirement represents a paradigm shift in how society views aging and work. Rather than viewing older adults as passive recipients of retirement benefts,

leading to increased socialization and engagement.

Cognitive Stimulation:

Engaging with pets, whether through training, grooming, or play, stimulates cognitive function and mental agility, helping to keep the mind sharp and active.

Sense of Security: Pets can provide a sense of security and safety, especially for elderly individuals living

we are recognizing the value of their experience, knowledge, and wisdom in driving innovation, productivity, and growth. By embracing the concept of unretirement, seniors have the opportunity to redefne their later years on their own terms, leading fulflling and purposeful lives well beyond traditional retirement age.

As the trend towards unretirement continues to gain momentum, it is essential for employers, policymakers, and society as a whole to support older adults in their decision to remain active in the workforce. By creating age-friendly workplaces, offering fexible work arrangements, and promoting lifelong learning opportunities, we can harness the talents and contributions of seniors to build a more inclusive, vibrant, and prosperous society for generations to come. Experience matters, and the great unretirement is testament to the enduring value of older adults in today’s rapidly changing world.

alone, as they offer companionship and may alert their owners to potential dangers or emergencies.

Overall, the bond between elderly individuals and their pets is mutually benefcial, promoting physical health, emotional well-being, and social connection, while enhancing the overall quality of life for both parties involved.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR GUTTERS

Maintaining clean gutters is crucial for the well-being of any property. Over time, gutters can become clogged with leaves, moss, debris, and even birds’ nests, obstructing proper rainwater runoff and leading to potential dampness and fooding issues. Ensuring your gutters are free from obstructions not only enhances their effciency but also protects your property from waterrelated damage. This guide will walk you through essential tips and strategies to keep your gutters in pristine condition, making them a feature you can be proud of.

ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR THE JOB

A successful gutter cleaning operation begins with the right set of tools. Protect yourself with personal protective equipment (PPE) such as eye protection, nonslip rubber soled boots, and waterproof clothing.

For the cleaning itself, a range of tools

can facilitate the process:

• Pressure Washer and Attachments: Ideal for removing stubborn debris and cleaning the tiles.

• Hard Bristled Broom and Hand Brush: Useful for clearing loose debris off the roof and emptying the bulk of materials from the gutters.

• Small Electric Blower: Great for clearing off loose bits of dirt and leaves from both the roof and gutter without having to get your walking surface wet.

• Small Hand Trowel: Perfect for scraping out thick gutter gunk.

• Green Waste Bags or Bin: To collect and dispose of the debris cleared from the gutters.

• Sturdy Ladder: Essential for reaching the gutters safely, especially for doublestory buildings.

• Cleaning Solution: A quality multi-purpose cleaner can break down tough grime without

damaging the gutters. Wearing appropriate PPE is vital, especially when operating a pressure washer, as fying debris can cause injuries. Additionally, always be cautious of any electrical cables in the vicinity.

START WITH THE ROOF

Most gutter debris originate from the roof, making it logical to begin your cleaning process there. Use a hard-bristled brush or a blower to remove loose materials, bagging them up as you go. This step not only prevents future blockages but also provides an opportunity to inspect your gutters for any damage.

CLEARING GUTTER DEBRIS BY HAND

Before introducing any water into the equation, manually remove as much debris as possible using a small hand trowel. This approach prevents downpipe blockages and ensures a more effective cleaning process.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CLEANING SOLUTION

A quality cleaning solution can signifcantly ease the gutter cleaning process, helping to loosen tough deposits and prevent future debris build-up. For particularly stubborn areas, consider using a rotating brush accessory with your pressure washer.

EFFECTIVE USE OF TOOLS

Using an angled spray lance and the correct nozzles can make a signifcant difference, especially when working from a height. Select nozzles that match your gutter material to avoid damage while ensuring thorough cleaning.

GUTTER PROTECTION

To extend the lifespan of your gutters, consider applying specialist paints that prevent rust and provide a protective barrier. Be cautious with plastic guttering, as not all paints are suitable.

DOWNPIPES AND DRAINS

Keeping downpipes clear is essential for effcient water runoff. Likewise, ensuring that your drains are free from blockages is critical for the overall effectiveness of your guttering system.

GUTTER GUARDS

Installing gutter guards can be a game-changer, reducing the frequency of cleanings needed by preventing large debris from entering the gutters. They also deter birds from nesting and can signifcantly reduce maintenance efforts.

REGULAR MAINTENANCE

For most properties, cleaning the gutters twice a year is adequate. This bi-annual cleaning can prevent issues like moss build-up and ensures that your gutters remain in good condition, facilitating easier cleaning in the future.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

• Safety: Always prioritise your safety by using stable ladders

and wearing appropriate PPE.

• Environmental Considerations: opt for eco-friendly cleaning solutions and disposal methods to minimise your environmental impact.

• Professional Assistance: Consider hiring professionals for occasional inspections to identify issues that might not be apparent to you.

GET CLEANING

Maintaining clean gutters is more than a chore; it’s an investment in the longevity and health of your property. By following these comprehensive tips, you can ensure that your gutters remain functional and clean, protecting your home from potential water damage and contributing to its overall aesthetic appeal. Remember, consistency is key; regular maintenance can save you from costly repairs in the long run.

Return Thanks

Death Notice

Elizabeth Roslyn Raymont (neé Carter)

17.09.1952 – 19.03.2024

In loving memory of Elizabeth Roslyn Raymont.

Late of Goonellabah and formerly of Chatsworth Island.

Passed away peacefully a er a short illness, aged 71 years.

Dearly loved Wife of Duncan.

Much loved Mother to Victoria and Lachlan.

Cherished Sister of Bill (dec), Anne, Kelvin and Margaret (dec).

A funeral has been held.

Death Notice

27. 09. 1933 ~ 18. 03. 2024

Passed away in the loving care of St Andrews Nursing Home Ballina.

Dearly loved wife of Alan Gordon Beckman (dec) for 60 years.

Cherished aunt of Grant & Anne Morehead.

Reunited with her Alan at Alstonville Cemetery In accordance with Nea’s wishes a private cremation has taken place.

Ritchies Supa IGA is a leader in the independent Supermarket and Liquor industry. We are seeking a Meat Manager and a Butcher to join our Ballina team.

Previous applicants encouraged to re-apply. Join the Masters of Meat at Ritchies today!

Applications to: matt.hockings@ritchies.com.au

Warnings

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Cloudy. High chance of showers. Light winds becoming easterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers. Light winds becoming southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the south. Medium chance of showers in the north, slight chance elsewhere. Light winds becoming easterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers on and east of the ranges, slight chance elsewhere. Winds east to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h.

New South Wales:

Showers on and east of the ranges, particularly about the southern half including Greater Sydney, and the far north east. A slight chance of a shower along the far northern inland, slopes and plains. Dry and sunny elsewhere. Patchy morning fog across the southern ranges and the northeast. Daytime temperatures near average however, below average in the southeast as well as inland parts along the Queensland border. East to southeasterly winds, tending more southerly in the southwest.

Thursday. Scattered showers on and east of the ranges. Dry and sunny elsewhere. Daytime temperatures near average, tending below average in the east and along the northern border. East to southeasterly winds, tending more southerly in the southwest.

Byron Coast: Winds: Northerly 10 to 15 knots turning east to northeasterly below 10 knots during the morning. Seas: Below 1 metre. 1st Swell: Southerly 1.5 to 2 metres, decreasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the morning. 2nd Swell: Northeasterly around 1 metre.

Weather: Partly cloudy.

Coffs Coast: Winds: Northerly 10 to 15 knots turning east to northeasterly below 10 knots during the morning. Seas: Below 1 metre. 1st Swell: Southerly 1.5 to 2 metres, decreasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the morning. 2nd Swell: Northeasterly around 1 metre.

Weather: Partly cloudy.

Gold Coast Waters:

Winds: Easterly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore during the evening. Swell: Easterly around 1 metre. Weather: Cloudy. 80% chance of showers.

Sun6:53am6:49pm

Joel Lammers, 13 years old from Evans Head will be travelling to Canberra next weekend to compete in the ACT State Titles held annually at the Mark Webber Circuit, Queanbeyan. Joel has won the race previously in 2022 to become

the ACT Rookie State Champion as well as winning the NSW State Championship 6 months later at Dubbo.

To help him along his way, Gary McDonald and the Old Boys from Club Evans RSL have supported him with $500 sponsorship to

assist with the costs.

Gary provided Joel with the cash at the Club’s Friday night weekly raffe announcing that “Joel is another fne example of our youths excelling in their chosen sport”. Joel then made an acceptance speech thanking Gary and

BALLINA MAHJONG

22ND MARCH 2024

Susan Scott 1, Kath Hubbard 2, Shirley Coleman 3, Shirley Atkinson 4, Carol Meyer 5, Vanessa Reynolds, Joy Lowien 6, Sally Lowry 8, Gail McDonagh 9, Jan Henley 10, Lorna Simpson 11, Ramsay Roper 12, Linda Lloyd 13, Penny Evans 14, Jane Fenech, Barbara Ellan 15, Lisa Wong 17, Gladys D’Anna 18, Valda McLerie, Val Heinritz 19, Pauline Kearney 21, Jan Boardman 22, Pauline Bolte 23, Wendy Thornton 24, Kathy Pickles 25, Diana Auret 26, Lesley Richie 27, Jan Small 28, Cindy Smith 29, Ann Hewitt 30, Yvonne Weddup 31, Jenny Lang 32, Coral Lavelle 33.

Mahjong is played

on Friday at 12:30pm at the Ballina Bridge Club North Creek Road. Enquiries for new players phone Shirley on 0423384647.

CASINO RSM

WOMENS BOWLS

RESULTS

Triple club champions for 2024:

Ivy Watson, Raelene Skirrey & Marlene Jordan

Winners of the triples championship fnals played on Wednesday 20/3 were:

Marlene Jordan, Raelene Skirrey & Ivy Watson def

Jan Dwyer, Annette James & Maria Hellyar

Congratulations to the winners

In our social game & winners of the day were:

Nancy Moran, Jan Cooke & Helen Lavelle def

the Old Boys for the funds they raise and the support they provide to the local community.

Joel started racing 5 years ago at the age of 8 years old riding a KTM 65cc in the Western Australia Supermoto Championship. In the same year, Joel

moved to NSW and commenced racing Karts at Lismore and Coffs Harbour. Since then, Joel has raced at 18 different tracks in 82 events around Australia winning his 2 State Titles and consistently fnishing at the front of the pack with over

40 podium places & trophies to his name.

Joel started the 2024 race calendar with a bang winning the City of Sydney Titles last month at Eastern Creek. We wish Joel all the best for his upcoming races for the year and beyond.

Denise Grice, Denise Skinner & Mary Mead

CHERRY STREET

CROQUET CLUB SPORTS RESULTS

ASSOCIATION

CROQUET:

P.Waters P.Hume 18 d

G.Porter 12

Club Championships

Division 3

G.Drew 12 d S.Hume 11

RICOCHET

CROQUET :

B.Wellings 19 d

M.Field 18

J.Doust J.Hannigan 11

d

R.Allen N.Barnes 9

B.Bill G.Drew 9 d

P.Bolte R.Offey 9

P.Waters 12 d

R.Chapman D.Scott 10

D.Jones M.Russell 12

d

J.Doust J.Hannigan 9

B.Bill N.Poynting 12 d

R.Allen P.Scott 9

P.Bolte

C.Woodlands15 d

R.Offey N.Watts 8

Club Championships

Handicap Doubles

R.Poynting N.Poynting 11 d N.Watts M.Russell 10

A.Mangan J.Bate 19 d

W.Gilmore R.Chapman 12

PENNANTS : Alstonville 8 d Cherry Street 2

Ballina 7 d Casino 3

Lismore v Byron Bay washed out

TOURNAMENTS

Forster Autumn Golf Croquet

Singles A Block

W.Borkhardt 3rd

B Block D. Simmons 3rd

Doubles W.Borkhardt & P. Long 1st .

D.Simmons & P.Gentle 6th

Gateball come and try day for all players

Thursday 18th April 9am, all welcome.

EVANS HEAD

WOMENS BOWLS

Ladies Social

Day- 20-03-24 - 3

Bowl Triples- Winners - M. McPherson, P. Freeman/L. Hayes, E. Gollan

Fours Championship

Final played 20-03-24 - L. Vidler, A. Eyles, B. Montague (sub),

G. Marczan defeated T. Bell, K. Hickey, J. Fernance, K. Robson. Congratulations to Winners & Runners/up & thank you to all the Teams who participated in the Championship games

By Tim Howard

Harwood Cricket Club has celebrated its return to the Clarence Valley competition by wrapping up the CRCA frst grade premiership with an eight-wicket win over Lawrence at Ellem Oval at the weekend.

Harwood dominated their Lower Clarence rivals from the outset, routing them for 79 on day one and fnishing the day at 2/58.

Overnight rain delayed the inevitable until midafternoon when Coby Tabor, 41no and skipper Ben McMahon, 17no, knocked off the required runs without drama.

It was all over in 33 overs. McMahon stroked the fourth ball of Jarrod Ensbey’s 11the over to the boundary to level the scores, then tapped the

fnal ball of the over for a single to win the game.

With so much time lost to rain and Harwood so far ahead in the game, both skippers called stumps by mid afternoon.

Harwood’s clinical fnish on day two followed a day of

carnage on the Saturday Lawrence skipper

Nathan Ensbey had his only win of the day, calling correctly at the coin toss and deciding to bat.

Disaster struck almost immediately with veteran opener Ben Hill, 1, out

on the fnal ball of the second over.

Mark Ensbey and frst drop Rowan Green dropped anchor for 13 overs, but could not get on top of the bowling.

Harwood’s opening pair of Duncan Fischer and Troy Turner kept the runs to a trickle and until the 15th over with the score on 22, Fischer trapped Ensbey in front for 10.

Green and new man in Luke Moloney found runs had to come by and within fve overs both had been dismissed.

After Ensbey’s dismissal McMahon made the fateful decision to introduce Corey Lewis to the bowling crease. His ability to bowl medium pace off cutters on a tight, fourth and ffth stump line, was made for grand fnal cricket.

On the fnal ball of his second over Lewis had Green caught by Jacob McMahon, the frst of this fve wickets for the innings.

Three balls later Fischer had his third for the innings and the wheels had fallen from the Lawrence effort at 4/28.

The pattern was set for the Lawrence innings.

a ball that went for four wides.

The frst wicket didn’t come until the 14th over when Simmons was dismissed for 6.

First drop Coby Tabor immediately capitalised on the dogged start from the openers and was more expansive with his stroke play, Within a few overs he was in double fgures and his attitude put the bowlers on notice that anything off line would concede runs.

Clumps of wickets would fall in between in between periods of stubborn defence.

Nathan Ensbey, 17, and experienced all rounder Doug Harris, 5, dug in for on of those periods and took the score to 51. But when Ben McMahon bowled Doug Harris, it kicked off another tumble of wickets.

Lewis lured Ensbey into a false stroke a few balls later and in his next over had Nathan Anderson caught for a duck,

At 7/54 it was going to take a miracle for Lawrence to post something for its bowlers to defend.

Darby Rouse, 9, was virtually becalmed but Chris Townson, took the fght up to the bowlers, striking three boundaries in his innings of 16.

But when he fell with the score on 78, the end came quickly with the fnal two wickets falling for just one run.

Harwood were in no hurry and openers Maison Simmons and Matt Farrell faced four maiden overs.

In fact Harwood’s frst runs didn’t come until the end of the ffth over, when Townson bowled

When the score reached 44 Harris had Farrell caught for 12, but Ben McMahon and Tabor took took the score to 2/58 at stumps on Saturday,

Raid kept the players from the feld until mid-afternoon and when it resumed Tabor and McMahon calmly moved total to 2/80 when it was decided to halt play.

It marked the end of a summer of cricket which began with enterprise with the new-look premier league featuring the return of Harwood and Lawrence making a successful foray into two-day cricket.

Harwood, a powerhouse in Clarence cricket since the formation of the original premier league in 1995, had left the Clarence to play in the North Coast Premier League competition.

But the exit of Grafton club Brothers after the the Christmas break revealed some weaknesses in the game which required some inventive work arounds to keep the competition viable.

In the end it was the newcomers to the competition who had the most success and who played the most enterprising cricket.

The Harwood team celebrates after a devastating eight-wicket win in the Clarence Valley mixed frst grade cricket grand fnal at Ellem Oval, Grafton at the weekend.

FOR the second occasion in the 2023-24 season, Hessions Auto Parts Grafton Speedway will play host to an Australian Title over the upcoming Easter Long Weekend, with drivers coming from all over the country to battle it out for Australian Modlites Title glory this Friday and Saturday night.

In what is going to be one of the most hotly contested Australian Titles in speedway this season, a feld of nearly 40 of the country’s best Modlites drivers have nominated, and the driver everyone is going to be chasing will be defending Australian Champion Sam Gollschewsky. The Brisbane, Queenslandbased driver, who has only visited Grafton Speedway on a couple of occasions, is focused on defending his Australian Title crown on the 440-metre Grafton Speedway track.

Although Gollschewsky carries

favouritism tag due to his Australia # 1 status, the form driver so far this season in Modlites has without a doubt been fellow Queenslander Corey Stein, who has won the Victorian Title and recently claimed the Queensland Title spoils at Kingaroy Speedway. Stein is certainly not stranger to the Grafton Speedway track, after he won last season’s NSW Title there, and came very close to defending the event at the track earlier this season up until a mistake while out in front cost him the win and he consequently dropped back to fnish in third. With a lot of experience around Grafton Speedway, Stein is focused on challenging for the top step of the Australian Title podium and nothing less.

Apart from Stein, others with their fair share of Grafton Speedway success are the father and son duo of Rodney and Mitch Pammenter.

The Queensland-based racers have both tasted NSW Title success at Grafton Speedway, with Rodney winning the 2021 event and Mitch picking up the NSW Title honours earlier this season.

Other Australian Title contenders includes the likes of Nathan Politch, exciting Modlites newcomer and current South Australian Champion Ryan Silcock, Casey Collins and Sean Rose, along with former Australian Title holders in Terry Leerentveld and Kyle Honour. When it comes to the local challengers, there are both Trent McLean and Chris Corbett. The latter, who is a V8 Dirt Modifed regular, is stepping into the car normally campaigned by Will Butler.

To say that the two nights of the Australian Modlites Title will be action packed is quite the understatement, and picking a winner amongst such a strong feld of competitors is

certainly no easy feat.

The support classes over the two nights of Australian Modlites Title action are set to be the V8 Dirt Modifeds, RSA Street Stockers, RSA Four Cylinder Sedans, Stock Cars and Junior Sedans on the Friday night, while for night two there will be AMCA Nationals, RSA Four Cylinder Sedans (50 lapper), Stock Cars and Junior Sedans on the Saturday night. Grafton Speedway would like to thank Hessions Auto Parts for their 2023-24 season support, which is their seventh consecutive season as the track’s naming-right’s sponsor. With store locations in both Grafton and Coffs Harbour, Hessions Auto Parts stock a wide range of parts and accessories at competitive prices. To fnd out more, contact them on 0266 423 085 (Grafton) and 0256 456 361 (Coffs Harbour) or visit their website at hessionsautoparts.com. au.

Hundreds of footballers spanning from Newcastle to the North Coast converged upon Forsyth Park in Coffs Harbour for an exhilarating Gala Day of football on Sunday, March 24th.

The SAP (Skills Acquisition Program) caters to junior footballers under 12 years old, who

proudly represent their community football clubs during weekend fxtures.

In a carnival atmosphere, players relished the opportunity to compete against teams hailing from various regions including Newcastle, Tamworth, Port Macquarie, Taree, and the Coffs Coast.

Locally

North Coast (blue) v Mid Coast (black)

North Coast Football Junior players

Corey Stein - Modlites

IT’S ALL HARWOOD IN CRICKET DECIDER