The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 200

Councillors knock back Brooms conflict consultant proposal

By Tim Howard

Arriving at a plan of management for the Brooms Head Reserve has become so contentious Clarence Valley Council staff considered a conflict resolution consultant necessary to continue the process.

Council resolved in February to hear a further staff report on the long running attempt to arrive at a PoM for the reserve.

But when the report arrived it recommended ditching previous efforts and estimate costs for a new draft plan.

It also included recommendations to engage both a planning consultant and a “facilitator specialising in conflict resolution given the polarisation within the community regarding future management of the Reserve.”

To fund it the plan was to allocate $100,000 from the Crown Maintenance Reserve and include it in the 2024/25 Operational Plan.

The proposal was not to the liking of councillors.

Cr Debrah Novak (pictured) moved council continue with preparing the draft PoM in accordance with the resolution in February 2024, allocate funds up to $40,000 from the Crown Maintenance Reserve to complete this PoM.

The motion recommended funding the engagement of a planning consultant, but not a conflict resolution consultant.

It also stipulated the Terms of Reference for the PoM do not include, or relate to, the 2017 Concept Design

Report for Brooms Head Holiday Park.

Most councillors believed the need for conflict resolution was overstated, although all admitted the process to arrive at a PoM had been long and contentious, with some reference to attempts in 1995 to come up with a PoM.

In moving her motion, Cr Novak said many people at Brooms Head were happy with what the council proposed in its February 24 resolution and this motion if successful would “provide clarity” for the community.

But Cr Karen Toms said she could see trouble ahead if the council pressed ahead with current February resolution.

“It’s it is a it is a very contentious issue,” she said. “And I wish we could fix it so easily.

“But I come back to the information in the report that tells us that the Local Government Act 1993 does not make provision to amend an existing PoM.

“And we’ve got a very old PoM that I don’t think we even had proof that had went out to community consultation.”

Cr Toms said there she knew people in the community who were unhappy with the process.

“It’s it’s complicated because I think some of the community stakeholders don’t really understand what a plan of management is,” she said.

“They wanted to have it to have more teeth, they wanted to have nitty gritty things in there, but that’s not what Plans of Management do.”

Cr Toms was also concerned the $40,000

allocated would not cover what needed to be done and and the absence of conflict resolution consultant.

“In the report, it talks about $34,000 And it was $54,000,” she said.

“So we’ve got a bit of money.

We don’t know if that’s enough.”

Cr Toms said conflict resolution was perhaps not the right term, but she believed there needed to be some interaction with the community to ensure both it and the council were on the same page.

“We need to somehow bring the community with us,” she said.

“That’s what was said back in February or before we need to bring the community with us but I think the community also needs to understand really what a PoM is.”

Cr Steven Pickering said he had heard many different messages coming from the Brooms Head community about what was needed.

“They want a different goal from the plan of management I think that by putting the conflict resolution

consultant back into the mix, will give for a more streamlined and hopefully a better outcome,” he said.

“In the end, we want to we want to plan of management that the community agree with.

We don’t we don’t want a plan of management that is being forced on the community because it just won’t work.”

He said the community were engaged and consulted in the previous plan of management, but when it came to council, there wasn’t one person that he spoke to me that agreed with the entire plan.

“If we don’t have the conflict resolution, and we don’t end up with a PoM that they all agree with, we’re going to be back to square one again,” he said.

“And we’ll be doing this for the third time within a couple of years and I don’t want to see that.”

But the majority of councillors were more optimistic.

Cr Bill Day said beginning again would offend many in the Brooms Head community.

“It seems this Brooms Head plan of management issue has been argued for just so long,” he said.

“Finally in February we seem to have reached a degree of consensus with most parties.

“I had quite a bit of feedback from Brooms Head, people, residents and people who use the caravan park saying that we’re very very happy with council’s decision in February.”

“It seemed that we were on the right track.”

Cr Greg Clancy said there were different views about what needed to be done, but his feedback was that it did not need a person to sort them out.

“I went to the campers and caravans annual meeting and I’ve talked to locals and I’ve talked to visitors so I’ve got a bit of an idea of across the board and I think we need to employ a planning consultant to complete the job,” he said.

Put to the vote, council voted 7-2 in favour of Cr Novak’s motion, with Crs Toms and Pickering against.

Council investigating possible DA Tracker data breach

On 24 April, an upgrade to Byron Shire Council’s document management system resulted in some internal development related documents being viewable on the DA Tracker public web portal.

The DA Tracker is Council’s online portal that allows users to track the progress of development applications.

“Access to the DA Tracker was temporarily suspended as soon as we became aware of the issue, and the removal of the internal documents from the DA Tracker public web portal was completed on 29 April”. Council’s Manager Business Systems and Technology, Colin Baker said.

“We are currently investigating this incident to determine the exact nature and extent of the documents incorrectly published.” Mr Baker said.

Council takes the privacy of its customers very seriously and has engaged the NSW State Government’s Cyber incident response team to assist with the investigation. If it is determined that a data breach occurred, Council will be contacting any person directly impacted, and following other mandatory reporting requirements.

Customers concerned about this incident can contact Colin Baker, Manager of Business Systems and Technology by calling 02 6626 7347.

More help available to women experiencing domestic violence

Critical

funding will soon be available to all women in the Northern Rivers

By Sarah Waters

Critical funding will soon be available to all women in the Northern Rivers, and right across Australia, who finds themselves in a situation where they are experiencing domestic violence and need to escape.

Last week, the Federal Government announced it will invest $925m over five years from mid next year to permanently establish the Leaving Violence Program (LVP).

This will allow women escaping violence to access up to $5000 in financial support along with referral services, risk assessments and safety planning.

Intimate partner violence is a problem of epidemic proportions in Australia, with a quarter of all Australian women having experienced it in their lifetime.

Prime Minister Albanese declared violence against women to be a ‘national crisis and national challenge’ after the alleged murders of 28 women at the hands of men this year.

The Federal Government also announced it will introduce a suite of online measures to prevent children and young people accessing pornography and to

tackle extreme online misogyny, which is fuelling harmful attitudes towards women.

It will also introduce legislation to ban the creation and nonconsensual distribution of fake pornography.

Creating and sharing sexually explicit material without consent, using technology like artificial intelligence, will be subject to serious criminal penalties.

In addition, a new phase of the Stop it at the Start campaign will launch in mid-June and run until May next year.

It will specifically include a ‘counterinfluencing campaign’ in online spaces where violent and misogynistic content thrives, to directly challenge the material in the spaces that’s being viewed.

Federal member for Richmond Justine Elliot, who is also the assistant minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, said the scourge of violence against women is a national crisis, and a national shame.

Ms Elliot said the $925.2 million investment ensures that victim-survivors of domestic abuse are supported to make choices about leaving relationships and can

build a better life for them and their children.

“We know how vital this program is. Based on the uptake of the current trial, it is estimated the Leaving Violence Program will support approximately 36,700 victim-survivors each year, right across the nation,” she said.

Through the government’s Housing Australian Future Fund, 4000 homes have been provided for women and children impacted by domestic and family violence.

While, the government has committed another $100 million towards the Safe Places Emergency

Accommodation Program, which provides grants to fund the building, renovation or purchase of new emergency accommodation for women and children experiencing violence.

If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, chat online via www.1800RESPECT. org.au , or text 0458 737 732.

If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit http://www.ntv.org.au.

The Northern Rivers Community Legal Centre provides the Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service for free.

This local service supports women and children who are experiencing family violence or domestic violence.

The centre has a specialist worker to help Aboriginal women, and it can also help women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

For more information visit: northernriversclc. org.au

Intimate partner violence is a problem of epidemic proportions in Australia

Pool project on track, under budget

By Tim Howard

Grafton swimmers can look forward to a dip in their new $30 million pool complex later this year with progress on

“Those sort of decisions along the way possibly with the with the project control group, are fantastic and hope let’s hope we get some more savings,”

Centre,” she said.

Cr Whaites said it was not just Clarence Valley residents watching the progress of pool construction.

“When I visit Coffs

the Regional Aquatic Project on track and under budget.

At the April Clarence Valley Council meeting, Cr Alison Whaites, the council member of the community focus group for the project, thanked council staff and pool builder, Hines Constructions Pty Ltd, for keeping the project schedule for a December opening.

And Cr Karen Toms was able to point to a cost saving that’s already been achieved of $20,893.50.

“That’s happened in a variation because consolidating the splash pad plant room with the indoor plant room,” she said.

she said.

Cr Whaites said the response to the pool progress had been mostly positive.

“As the councillor on the community focus group for the regional Aquatic Centre, I share weekly updates on social media, photos and actual construction progress so our community is always informed,” she said.

“It’s fantastic to read all the positive comments on social media and from families that actually give me a quick message on social media or they actually stop me in the street to thank us and the council what we’re doing right now for the Aquatic

Harbour weekly I do get feedback from that community as well because they’ve always enjoyed coming up to our Grafton the Olympic pool,” she said.

“I know I did when I was a kid and I brought my kids up here as well.

“So they’re actually looking forward to coming up and spending some money in our town.”

Cr Whaites pointed out the site was still known as the Grafton Olympic Pool as there had been no name change approved.

“I just wanted to debunk that myth and that stuff that’s on social media,” she said.

“We have not changed the name to date.”

In the report to council the project status as of March 2024 included:

• Completed and poured the 25m backwash tank walls

• Completed and poured the leisure pool balance tank walls

• Installed formwork for 25m balance tank lid

• Reinforcing steel completed for splash pad balance tank base

• Steelwork commenced in 50m pool base

• Completed excavation of the 50m pool backwash tank

• Completed sanitary drainage to male and female amenities in the front of house building

• Commenced rough in of electrical in front of house building. The council voted unanimously to note the progress on the project.

Public Consultation: Have Your Say on Private Native Forestry Plan

Kyogle Council is seeking community feedback on a proposal that would transfer the governance of Private Native Forestry (PNF) to Local Land Services (LLS). Currently, approvals from both LLS and the Council are required for PNF activities. This change, affecting land zoned RU1 and RU4, is aimed at streamlining the approval process by designating LLS as the sole consent authority.

Key Proposal Points: Environmental Safeguards: Environmental standards will remain unchanged, requiring forestry operations to minimize adverse impacts.

Regulatory Oversight: The NSW Environmental Protection Agency will continue to oversee PNF compliance with environmental regulations.

How to Participate: Review the Proposal: Access the full details on the Kyogle Council’s website under Public Notices.

Deadline: Comments are accepted until 4 PM on Friday, 7 June.

Submitting Feedback:

Mail: Send submissions to PO Box 11, Kyogle, NSW, 2474.

Email: Direct emails to council@kyogle.nsw. gov.au.

The Council will compile all public input for the State Government’s consideration before finalizing the decision. Your feedback is vital to shaping the future of our region’s forestry practices and environmental sustainability.

“Probably

Cr Alison Whaites, second from left, with Cr Ian Tiley, left Member for Clarence Richie Williamson with members of the community outside Grafton Olympic Pool last year.

Midwives across NSW recognised for care and compassion

People across NSW are encouraged to celebrate and recognise midwives for their contribution to the NSW health system this International Day of the Midwife.

Health Minister Ryan Park said midwives are highly valued for their incredible work supporting women, their babies and families at such an important time in their lives.

“I thank every midwife across the NSW Health system for their ongoing commitment to providing safe and high-quality midwifery care to keep mothers and babies healthy across the state,” Mr Park said.

“The dedication, skill and compassionate care midwives provide to all women and their families is remarkable, with midwives supporting the birth of almost 100,000 babies in NSW each year.

NSW Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Jacqui Cross said midwives play a vital role in helping to deliver safe, effective and collaborative maternity care in the state’s public maternity services.

“I’m very proud of the exceptional work of midwives in our services, making a difference

in the lives of women, babies and their families every day,” Ms Cross said.

“Our midwives are passionate about providing womancentred care to ensure women feel empowered to make decisions about their maternity care that meets their unique needs and achieves their desired health outcomes.”

“Every year, we recognise the achievements of our nurses and midwives in the NSW health system through the Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards, so I encourage people to nominate an outstanding nurse or midwife when applications open tomorrow.”

In 2024, there will be a total of nine awards, including seven local health district and specialty network nominated awards, one consumer-nominated

Healing Heart award and one colleague-nominated Healing Heart award.

Nominations for the 2024 Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards close on Friday, 14 June 2024. For more information visit the NSW Health website.

New face on the club board

By Samantha Elley

He has a mountain of experience in the club industry and Neale Genge is excited to be taking over the reins of Club Evans or the Evans Head-Woodburn

take up a role on the Central Coast.

“Last year around June my father had a bit of a fall and he was in Newcastle hospital,” he said.

“An opportunity came up at Tuncurry Beach

accounting, law and marketing.

“Doubled the membership of Casino within 10 years and it went to $10 million profits,” he said.

“There are things we can tweak (for Evans)

difficulties but Neale is positive for the seaside club’s future.

“It’s early days but we are redoing downstairs,” he said.

“There’s been renovations happening down there in the

RSL Club which started last week.

Regular club patrons around the Richmond Valley would recognise his name when he was running the Casino RSM Club, where membership went from 4,5000 to 9,000 by the time he left.

Family reasons saw Neale leave Casino to

Bowling Club.

“They were going through a new refurbishment, a new bar and new restaurant.

“We had a busy Summer and Easter then the opportunity came up here to come to Evans Head.”

Neale brings not only his club experience, but he also has qualifications in

and also get involved in the community.

“They’ve done a great job so I just hope to bring a bit more professionalism and skills and bring the members along with us.”

Club Evans has had a bumpy ride over the last few years, having changed CEOs and dealt with financial

Riverfire restaurant.

“We’ve got a lot of entertaining happening…looking for more live entertainment.

Local acts as well.

“Providing a venue for everybody from eight to 80.”

Neale said once they do a few feasibility studies, they will look into further opportunities.

Nathan Montgomery B.Hlth.Sc.(Pod) (Hons) MAPA

Kassie Childs B.Hlth.Sc.(Pod) M.A.Pod.A.

Jasmine McEnerny

By Samantha Elley

Ballina truck driver has a gift for story-telling

For the last 35 years East Ballina man and local freight company truck driver, Steve Nethery, has been writing.

His first novel, Heavy Load, came out a few years ago and now his second novel, Long Flight Home, was published in January this year.

“I started writing Heavy Load 25 years ago and started it freehand,”

Steve said.

“Long Flight Home took five years.”

While Long Flight Home is not a sequel to Heavy Load, it is connected through the character Father Frank Casey.

“In Heavy Load he is only a small character, but it was suggested to me that he could have a story on his own,” said Steve.

“So I started writing Long Flight Home from there.”

While both books are works of fiction, Steve’s style is such that the lives of the men that are written about could be true.

In Long Flight Home, Father Casey is a knockabout Catholic priest of Irish convict descent.

While he is very much a no nonsense man, he is also very human and his best and worst traits come out in the book.

“He calls a spade a spade and his life is dedicated to helping the underprivileged,” said Steve.

We follow Frank’s story from his childhood days, through his war years and to when he trains as a priest and his achievements thereafter.

When it came to writing Frank’s story, Steve drew on his own experiences in life.

“I was brought up in a big Catholic family, being one of eight,” he

said.

“In fact, I am the seventh child of the seventh child

his six brothers, with all of them surviving.”

In the novel, Frank is part of the missions of the Lancaster Bombers that flew over Germany during World War Two.

Steve drew on this, using the experience of his uncle Cyril Nethery who flew 18 missions over Germany and Czechoslovakia.

of the seventh child.

“Dad was also a World War Two veteran as were

Rugby also features prominently in the story as all Steve’s uncles played first grade rugby union for St George.

Feedback from both Heavy Load and Long

Flight Home have been positive for Steve spurring him to start his third novel.

“I’ve had people say they can’t put the book down, or they couldn’t wait to pick it up again,” he said. His next novel will be about the mysterious stories and sightings of the yowie, entitled The Devil’s Hole.

“I’ve always had an interest in yowies,” he said.

“I’ve heard a few reports about yowie experiences and I know it is deeply embedded in Indigenous culture.”

If you would like a copy of Steve’s new novel Long Flight Home, or would like to read his first, Heavy Load, you can go to his website www.senethery.com or order off the Amazon website.

For a signed copy you can email him at stephen. nethery@bigpond.com.

GRAFTON REDMEN SCORES UP IN LIGHTS

The Grafton ‘Redmen’ Rugby Union Club has been awarded $19,800 to upgrade the scoreboard at its home ground in South Grafton, Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson has announced.

Mr Williamson said the current scoreboard had reached its end life and he was thrilled the Club had been successful in securing funding through the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant program to replace it.

“Local grassroots sporting clubs like the Grafton Redmen are the lifeblood of community sport, and this investment will increase both the player and spectator experience,”

Mr Williamson said.

“This latest grant is

in addition to funding I announced last year which saw new female change rooms and new lighting installed at the grounds.

“I thank the Grafton Redmen volunteers who made this possible as without

their commitment and dedication to the sport, none of this would have been achieved.”

Grafton Redmen Club President Bart McGrath said the Grafton Redmen have worked tirelessly over the past two years to obtain funding to

upgrade amenities at the club for the benefit of both players and spectators.

“The funding support received from the NSW Government to upgrade infrastructure at the grounds has seen the club go from strength

to strength on the field with increased junior and female participation as well as increased community sponsorship and support off the field,” Mr McGrath said.

The Local Sport Grant program is annual program that aims to

support grassroots sporting clubs to increase participation, host events, improve access and enhance sport and recreation facilities.

Mr Williamson said he will be announcing other successful recipients under the latest funding round in the coming weeks as he moves around the electorate.

“I encourage all sporting clubs across the Clarence and Richmond Valleys to jump online and subscribe to receive updates on when the next round of Local Sport Grants program open,” Mr Williamson said.

Further information can be found here https://www.sport.nsw. gov.au/grants/localsport-grant-program

Ballina author Steve Nethery

By Sarah Waters

The new Tweed Valley Hospital at 771 Cudgen Road, Cudgen will open to patients at 8am next Tuesday, May 14.

On the same day the Tweed Valley Hospital opens to patients, The

Tweed Valley Hospital opens in fve days

onwards should present to Tweed Valley Hospital.

All inpatients at The Tweed Hospital will be transferred to the new hospital.

This process is expected to take a full day, and is

Hospital staff will liaise directly with affected patients and their families or carers.

A community health service providing a range of clinics and community outreach services, as well as the existing BreastScreen NSW

Tweed Hospital at Powell Street, Tweed Heads, will close.

Anyone requiring emergency medical care from next Tuesday

being coordinated in partnership with NSW Ambulance, NSW Police, Transport for NSW and Tweed Shire Council.

service, will continue to be delivered at the Powell Street site in Tweed Heads. However, there will be no emergency services

or hospital inpatient services available at this location after Tuesday 14 May 2024.

Tweed Valley Hospital is located close to the M1 motorway and adjacent to Tweed Coast Road.

The hospital is easily accessed by car and public transport.

If travelling by car, follow the M1 to Chinderah, and take the exit towards Cudgen/ Kingscliff.

Continue on Tweed Coast Road and turn left at the intersection of Tweed Coast Road and Cudgen Road.

Drop off bays are located at the hospital’s three entrances - the main entrance, the emergency department and the east entrance.

Staff, patients and visitors will have access

to over 1200 free on-site car parking spaces at the Tweed Valley Hospital. There is long-term capacity for up to 1500 car spaces on the site.

Tweed Valley Hospital is located on a public transport route.

Bus stops are located

to read the full announcement from Kinetic.

For any questions, please contact Kinetic Customer Experience Team directly at info@ wearekinetic.com or (07) 5552 2700.

on both sides of Cudgen Road, directly in front of the hospital, with a pedestrian crossing at the traffc lights.

Bus service provider Kinetic has the details of all bus routes - visit https://brnw.ch/21wJq11

Hospital.

The hospital connects with established pedestrian and cycle routes in the area.

A taxi rank is also located at the main entry to Tweed Valley

Emma Jane Davies and Sasha Harrington at the new Tweed Valley Hospital

Last month the community had the chance to look through Tweed Valley Hospital before it offcially opens to patients on Tuesday

Grafton High mummy reveals more secrets

By Tim Howard

The existence of a mummifed Egyptian head in the library at Grafton High School is common knowledge for generations of the school’s students.

But when the ABC show, Stuff the British Stole, revealed its existence to the rest of Australia last year, the response was shock and wonder at how such an artefact came to be in the care of a regional high school.

The discovery also ramped up interest in the mummy and in a followup report the ABC has revealed forensic experts have discovered the sex, age and the period in which the person lived.

A forensic Egyptologist from the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine and Department of Forensic Medicine, Janet Davey, scanned the mummy in a CT scanner.

The ABC reported Dr Davey’s team combined with the University of Chieti in Italy to discover the mummy was female and had died aged between 50 and 60.

strict formulas,” she told the ABC.

The mummy has been in the school’s possession since 1915, according to note from 1960 which explained that a Grafton doctor, T J Henry bought the mummy while he was a medical student in Edinburgh during the late 19th Century.

But like the mummy itself, the story of how it got to the high school also has twists and turns with suggestions another famous former Graftonian was the source.

Nearly fell off my chair reading the recent NRTimes article on the Green’s Party ticket running for Ballina Shire Council (BSC) in the September elections. In particular, claims by my fellow councillor Kiri Dicker that she has “sat by and watched this Council make some of the worst environmental decisions in its history.”

It’s worth noting that after extensive community consultation, BSC adopted a comprehensive new Biodiversity Strategy in June 2023 to protect and enhance our environmental values.

They even had the gall to criticise Mayor Sharon Cadwallader for using her casting vote to ensure the cooperative approach was passed. If Cr Dicker has suddenly had a change of heart with regard to the complete disregard for local farmers shown by the Ballina Greens over the past year, then that is certainly to be welcomed. I will believe it when I see it.

Flecks of gold leaf attached to the head put the mummy in the GrecoRoman period of Egypt, roughly between the time of Alexander the Great in 332BC to the Roman occupation of Egypt and the early Christian period, around 395CE.

Dr Davey told the ABC the quality of the mummifcation, including the full removal of the brain – a process known as excerebration – plus the presence of gold leaf showed the woman came from a wealthy family.

The data from the CT scan encouraged Grafton High to fund a

reconstruction based on the data from the scan and put a face to the mystery.

The CT data was sent to forensic toxicologist Matthew Di Rago, at VIFM, who created a 3D print of the skull.

A forensic sculptor at VIFM, Jennifer Mann, took over and she was able to make a complete “forensic facial reconstruction” sculpture.

“[It] involves doing a portrait in reverse — so in effect, starting with a skull, and putting all of the musculature on, and then having to recreate the face based on very

Another version has the mummy coming from Sir Grafton Elliot Smith, a local who became one of the world’s foremost Egyptologists in the early 20th century.

He revolutionised the study of ancient mummies using X-rays to reveal their secrets without disturbing them.

When the tomb of Tutankhamen was discovered, he was responsible for the examination of the preserved body.

Grafton High School was contacted for information, but did not reply.

Councillor Dicker was the only councillor not to support it.

Cr Dicker goes on to say that “Greens on council have a long history of pioneering rural landholder programs that support landowners to protect and expand native vegetation.” That may be the case with regard to the Lismore Greens, however when I and my fellow independent councillors tried to get BSC to adopt Conservation Zones on farms modelled on the successful Lismore Council Rural Landholders initiative, the radical Ballina Greens including Cr Dicker and Jeff Johnson opposed it time and time again.

Cr Dicker also seems to have had a memory lapse in her comment, “If you vote for the Greens we’ll ensure land is used to build affordable rental housing for local workers.” In February this year Ballina Shire councillors voted for a history-making affordable housing scheme, giving the go-ahead for stage one of a council-owned unit complex at Wollongbar. The units will be made available for rent to critical workers who can’t get accommodation now. Once again, Cr Dicker was the only councillor to vote against the proposal. It seems the Greens will say just about anything in their quest to take complete control of Ballina Shire Council this September.

Rod Bruem, Independent Councillor, Ballina

For more than a century a mummifed head about 2000 years old has been stored in the library at Grafton High School. In the past year forensic experts have been able to reconstruct the mummifed remains and give people an idea of what this person once looked like. Photo: Jennifer Mann

National Walk Safely to School Day Turns 25: A Call to Action for Young Australians

As National Walk Safely to School Day approaches on Friday, 10 May 2024, primary school-aged children across Australia are encouraged to lace up their shoes for a walk towards a healthier future. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, this initiative, championed by the Pedestrian Council of Australia, highlights the myriad benefts of walking and other forms of active transportation, particularly to and from school.

This annual event not only emphasizes physical health but also aims to improve road safety, reduce environmental impact, and promote the use of public transport to lessen car dependency near schools. Harold Scruby, Chairman and CEO of the Pedestrian Council of Australia, emphasizes the importance of adult supervision for children under 10 when crossing the street, reinforcing the safety aspect of the campaign.

“Walk Safely to School Day is a great opportunity to teach our kids about the benefts of physical activity,” said Scruby. He also pointed to the worrying statistics of childhood obesity, which affects one in four children at critical levels across the nation, according to the latest ABS National Health Survey results from 2017-18. “The best form of physical activity for all Australians is walking regularly. Children need at least 60 minutes of

physical activity a day,” he added.

The day is not just about walking; it also encourages schools and parent groups to host healthy breakfast events to start the day nutritiously. This initiative supports the dual goals of fostering healthful eating habits and providing social interaction within the school community.

As the event marks a signifcant milestone, schools across Australia are gearing up to

participate more actively than ever. Parents, teachers, and caregivers are encouraged to get involved, not only to support their children but also to take part in making walking a regular part of their daily routine.

This initiative plays a crucial role in mitigating traffc congestion around school areas, promoting environmental stewardship, and fostering a sense of community. Everyone in the community is invited

to support the initiative, helping to instil healthy habits in children that can lead to lifelong benefts.

For more information on how to participate in National Walk Safely to School Day, visit the Pedestrian Council of Australia’s website or contact your local school to see what activities are planned for the day. Join the movement on 10 May and help make a difference in the lives of young Australians.

Connect You Too April Wrap Up

Connect You Too has been busy helping the community get out and about during April 2024.

In April 2024, we did a total of 2231 trips with a total of 12,172 service kms. Our popular destinations included 39 trips to Ballina; 156 trips to Coffs Harbour; 15 trips to the Gold Coast; 1171 trips to Grafton; 91 trips to Lismore and 648 trips to the Yamba/Maclean area.

We managed to get the community to 952 Specialist and GP appointments; 139 Hospital visits (Day Surgery drop off/pick-up); 314 social trips & 627 shopping trips.

In April, our social trips travelled to the Coffs Harbour Nursery. This month we are heading to Burringbar to visit Heaths Old Wares & have lunch at Tweed Valley Whey Farmhouse Cheeses. And in June, we are off to Sawtell for a tour of the area and have lunch at the Sawtell RSL.

Our Clarence Meals service delivered 1405 meals, 356 desserts and 70 soups during April 2024. We were able to do welfare checks, have a quick chat and help our customers see a friendly face.

Clarence Meals provides delivered meals to Iluka, Maclean and Yamba and surrounds from suppliers including Gourmet Meals, Lite n’ Easy and Meals on Wheels Grafton. For more information call 6646 6742.

Looking for a new home care package provider?

HART Services is available via our Townsend Connect You Too offces. For more information, call 1300 874 278.

If you need help with transport or meals, call Connect You Too at Townsend on 6645 3200 to see if you qualify for any subsidies or assistance.

Ballina Hospital Auxiliary

The Auxiliary attended the Ballina ANZAC Day March and the ladies marched under our Ballina UHA Banner, two of our ladies laid a wreath on behalf of our members.

We will be attending the Love Lennox Festival on the 1st June and holding a Cake Stall and Raffe. We hope for a good day, many thanks to the committee for our invitation.

Our next meeting will be held on Tuesday 21st May at 1.30pm in the Solarium at the Ballina District Hospital. All most welcome

HOLISTIC CARE HELPING VETERANS WITH PTSD

By Sarah Waters

Events such as Anzac Day have increasingly prompted conversations about the mental health of veterans and what help is available to them.

General Manager and Psychologist at Byron Private Treatment Centre Jenny McGee has extensive experience working with veterans who have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other mental health conditions that have resulted from their service.

In addition to evidence-based therapy for PTSD including, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Ms McGee said a holistic approach has profound benefts.

“What does happen with PTSD is that people are triggered by situations - people, places, sounds, smells and they can often be on high alert or hypervigilant where the whole nervous system is alerted, looking for danger and wanting to keep themselves safe and other people safe,” she said.

“For example, hearing a loud sound

The Transition and Wellbeing Research Programme report by the Department of Veteran Affairs states almost half (46 per cent) of the transitioned ADF were estimated to have met criteria for a lifetime anxiety disorder, and one-quarter were estimated to have met criteria for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

When compared to the general population, only four or fve per cent of people might experience PTSD in their lifetime.

and thinking that they might be back in that dangerous situation and going to extremes to protect themselves and other people.

“Or it might manifest as irritability and the inability to engage socially like they might have once done.

“About 30 per cent of veterans with PTSD also suffer from addictions with alcohol and substances as they try to medicate their distress and symptoms.

“What can be additionally helpful

for people is not only the evidence-based therapy they might undergo, but also to be in a green space and restful environment where they are able to allow the body and the physiological, high nervous system arousal to be lowered.”

About a third of the residents at Byron Private Treatment Centre are veterans, of all ages, who have served in different conficts, sometimes generations apart.

Some of them are

when it was referred to as ‘shell shock’ or ‘battle fatigue’ in WWII.

However, there has been a radical shift in how the community and society understands mental health, including the need to offer really supportive treatment.

“I think even our stigmatization of different conficts and different veterans has changed.

Australian Defence Force (ADF) members who have experienced PTSD from domestic service.

Ms McGee said veterans are encouraged to go to the beach daily, see the sunrise and connect to the natural cycles in nature.

“Research shows that exposure to nature can lower stress hormones, lower blood pressure, improve the mood and reduce the risk of developing other psychiatric disorders, like depression and anxiety,” she said.

Daily outdoor activities including swimming, surfng, bushwalking and even equine assisted therapy, are sustainable practises all servicemen and women can incorporate into their lives.

Research has also shown the Mediterranean diet improves symptoms of depression and stress.

While peer support in a mixed group therapy setting can help with the transition back into civilian/community life.

Ms McGee said the impact PTSD has on the nervous system, including irritability, avoidance behaviours and intrusive memories or dreams, are the same symptoms soldiers experienced in WWI

“And we’ve moved much more largely to really acknowledging the service that men and women have provided for Australia.

“With evidence-based treatment and support, people can overcome PTSD.

“Sometimes it might last for over a year, but people can heal and also repair Relationships,” she said.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a condition that can develop in response to a single, or repeated exposure, to trauma.

A number of events have the potential to cause PTSD, including threat of death, serious injury, viewing or handling human remains and seeing someone badly injured or killed.

If you need support, please contact veterans and families counselling service provider Open Arms on their 24-hour phone line: 1800 011 046 or visit www. openarms.gov.au and they can connect you with counselling services in the community.

The Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) also funds treatment for veterans.

For more information please visit: www. defence.gov.au or www. byronprivaterehab.com. au

General Manager and Psychologist at Byron Private Treatment Centre Jenny McGee has extensive experience working with veterans who have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Holistic healthcare has been shown to have profound benefts in the reduction of PTSD symptoms

FEDERAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE FUNDING WELCOMED, NOW THERE’S MORE WORK TO DO

The Family Co, the leading Domestic Violence Support Service in the Sutherland Shire, says domestic violence funding announced by the Federal Government is a much-needed injection and intervention.

Prime Minister Albanese today announced $925.2 million over fve years to permanently establish the Leaving Violence Program, providing those escaping violence with access to:

• Up to $5,000 in

fnancial support

• Extra referral services

• Risk assessments and safety planning.

The Family Co looks forward to seeing more detail around the support for case management support and crisis assistance, ensuring the funding does not increase demand on these already stretched resources without adequate resourcing.

The Family Co. provides Domestic and Family Violence Services across the

Sutherland, Bayside and Georges River Police Area Commands, with services including crisis, court and therapeutic support.

“So far this year, 27 women have died at the hands of men in Australia,” said The Family Co. CEO Ashleigh Daines.

“Last year alone, there were 583 incidents of domestic violence related assaults in Sutherland according to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research.

“And so far this

year, our local service providing help in just three council areas has received about 1,600 referrals for domestic and family violence support.

“Men’s violence against women is not a tragedy, it’s a travesty.

“So we absolutely welcome this Federal Government commitment to more money. This funding will help get women and children out of dangerous situations.

“And we are calling on the NSW Government to

step up further as well. We need more funding for domestic violence shelters, counselling services and front-line crisis support.

“But we also need more funding for prevention and early intervention services as well - to stop the violence from occurring in the frst place.

“We note the calls from Domestic Violence NSW – the peak group representing 150 organisations – for at least another $80 million for DV services in this

year’s State Budget, and we support that.

“We also support No To Violence’s call for more than $42 million over fve years to fund Men’s Behavioural Change and other case management and diversionary programs.

“Last election, NSW Labor committed to longer-term funding for social services and more focus on driving domestic violence rates down, and now we need to see that translate to action.”

Laboratory of Light Families Show Announced

By popular demand

NORPA is making our original school production, Laboratory of Light, open to families, for one night only.

Welcome to the curious and wonder-flled world of Luminous — a backyard scientist and inventor. Luminous never wants to be in the dark again, so is on a mission to understand and capture light.

Luminous spends all night conducting experiments in the Laboratory of Light in the hope that one day this will lead to recognition and fame. Darkness is lonely and needs a friend but Luminous is afraid of

the

dark!

One full moon night, as an electromagnetic wave travels through the Milky Way, Luminous’ most ambitious invention traps the smallest unit of light, a photon! This leads to an unlikely trio setting off on an adventurous discov-ery.

Join us for an engaging and magical night of wonder for the world around us, featuring light play experiments and original live music.

For ages 5-12 years and their families.

Laboratory of Light –Families Show Star Court Theatre, Lismore: Thu 6 Jun, 6pm

NSW Government to Modernize Planning with $5.6 Million AI Investment

The NSW Government has introduced a $5.6 million program to incorporate Artifcial Intelligence (AI) into local council planning systems. This initiative, titled “AI in NSW Planning,” aims to address the housing crisis by accelerating development assessments and enhancing planning effciency.

Project Highlights:

• AI technologies will target known delays in the development application assessment process.

• Selected technologies for trial include Adaptovate Pty Ltd’s DAISY, Archistar Platform, and Propcode CDC.

• Councils can apply for funding, with up to $500,000 available for joint grants and $200,000 for individual council applications. This funding aims to promote innovative solutions that streamline the application process, essential for reducing the average time it takes to assess new home development applications, which are handled by council staff 85 percent of the time.

Application Details:

Open to all councils until 22 May 2024. Successful applicants will be notifed in June.

Paul Scully, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, highlighted the program’s potential to modernize and enhance the effciency of NSW’s planning system, stating, “Our goal is to equip planners with advanced tools to ensure timely delivery of new homes.”

Councils interested in applying or seeking more information should visit the NSW Planning website. This initiative represents a major step toward updating NSW’s planning systems with AI, addressing the needs of the community more effectively

Council inserts action plan into tourism blueprint

By Tim Howard

Rubber stamping a seven-year plan to manage and develop tourism in the Clarence Valley was never going to good enough for Cr

Bill Day.

Cr Day, who headed the Clarence River Tourism Association for two decades, saw danger ahead when the proposal to put the Clarence Valley Destination Management Plan out for public exhibition came to the latest Clarence Valley Council meeting.

Cr Day said given the record of the council in tourism management, the plan would “collect dust” unless councillors committed to acting on its recommendations.

“They often collect dust unless it’s supported by annual plans that actually get down to the tin tacks, the budget, the staff resourcing that details of activities and projects,” he said.

He pointed to the failure of council’s frst venture into tourism management after it shut down the CRTA in 2014.

“We haven’t had a current tourism strategy for three years,” he said.

“The last one was brought in in 2016 for a fve-year period.

“I’ve gone through the 2016 plan and there’s things that were never done. There were things that failed miserably.

“It’s important that councillors get a grasp on what they want for the ratepayers money that we spend on tourism.”

He said the document

about to go out on public exhibition was a “wish list” and a “word salad” but was also an important document.

“It doesn’t contain a lot of heart and a lot of things that are quite substantial receive one line in the strategy,” he said.

To beef up the strategy Cr Day moved that council:

1. endorse the Clarence Valley Destination Management Plan for public exhibition from Friday 26 April to 6 June 2024.

2. as soon as possible following this exhibition, hold a councillor workshop for council to review the plan and submissions received during the exhibition period.

3. receive at this workshop a 12 to 24 month plan outlining the funding and processes regarding Clarence Valley Tourism activities and options.

“This workshop that I’m proposing is, really, really important,” Cr Day said.

“I’ll certainly be making a response to the draft strategy.

“I might bring up a notice of motion yet, detailing a few more specifcs about what I’d like to see in the workshop.

“There’s a new coordinator for Economic Development and Tourism, who’s just taken up her position in council.

“It’s very important that we help her understand

If Kristy Gill had her way, she would cook 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“I used to advertise on Facebook and made cakes for my friends and family,” she said.

From there, Kristy opened the Riverview Café in Coraki but when the opportunity came up for her to move her business to Casino, she took it.

And Crazy Cow Café was born.

“I fgured it was a good name to suit the beef

where to start and what’s expected from tourism from us representing the council.”

Deputy mayor Jeff Smith, who seconded Cr Day’s motion, said it was important to include an “action step”.

“I’ve read a lot of reports, and a lot of them don’t have that action step,” he said.

“This motion does in that we’re going to have a workshop and just as importantly talk about funding and processes for the next 12 to 24 months what’s achievable and what can and can’t be done.

“It’s all very good to having a wish list. But what is realistic, what’s feasible and what’s going to actually beneft the valley and the economy?”

Councillors were excited at the tourism opportunities discussed in the draft plan with indigenous heritage, eco-tourism and the

environment heavily mentioned.

But Cr Debrah Novak sounded a word of warning about how climate change could impact future tourism development. She even posited a term “natural disaster adventure” to keep tourists coming when nature turned ugly.

“It’s perfect for tourists, but when it’s blowing a gale, fooding they run, so we need to have a plan B to support these tourists to stay here,” she said.

“Give them some other sort of natural disaster adventure and come up with something different that will actually keep our tourists here looking for a bit more opportunity.”

Cr Steve Pickering said the draft plan did have a “plan B” with emphasis on galleries, museums as alternative activities to exploring the outdoors.

But he said plan was

Crazy Cow comes to Casino

capital,” she laughed.

After a lot of hard work to get the business up and running, Kristy opened her doors on Tuesday last week.

“We do lots of take home meals for people who don’t have time to cook, so they can take them home and put them in the freezer,” Kristy said.

“We do honey chicken, fried rice, home made lasagne, spaghetti bolognese and sausages and veges.”

The café also serves up hamburgers, chicken wraps, salad sandwiches and all the deep fried favourites.

“We will eventually do pizzas as well,” said Kristy.

designed to get visitors to explore areas the hinterland as well as enjoy the beaches and coastal activities.

He said an attraction like a paddle steamer would be an ideal link between these activities.

Cr Greg Clancy said he enjoyed the DMP’s focus on enjoying the region’s natural beauty but also the need to not “fog it to death”.

“They’re all all good things,” he said “And when they’re done properly and we protect what we’re what we’re trying to sell to the. tourists, I think it’s a win, win.”

Cr Alison Whaites said the planners had plenty to work with in the Valley and had done an outstanding job with the draft.

“They are doing a very good job of doing this and I encourage people to go and have a look to see what we’ve actually got,” she said.

Summing up, Cr Day said it was exciting to hear councillors talking so positively about tourism, but he added it was also important to ensure the tourism industry worked with the whole community.

“We need to focus on the troughs not the peaks when residents don’t resent tourism so much in those trough periods and we need to look at that,” he said.

Councillors vote unanimously in support Cr Day’s motion. It’s been on exhibition since April 26 and submissions close on June 6.

With her fve youngest kids in Casino Public School, only a walk away, Kristy knows she will have no problems with young helpers in the shop after school.

“My fve year old has already asked if he can come and help,” she laughed.

“We will be looking into gluten free cooking with our cakes and slices and we have lactose free milk for our coffees.

“We try and cater for everyone.”

“I hope he continues with that same attitude as he gets older.”

The Crazy Cow Café is located at 117 Barker Street, next to the Commonwealth Bank.

Cr Bill Day convinced council to beef up its latest tourism plan with actions that will give the idea in the plan a greater chance of being realised.

Diary of a Flood Survivor

When we were unpacking many of the items we’d saved from the food, as they had to be stored away while we were living elsewhere, it was a little like Christmas.

Possessions we hadn’t seen for seven months came to light and we were able to put them back where they belonged.

Clothes in the wardrobe, books on the shelves (although we have only put a minimal number out again and kept the rest in storage) and other items on display, as I mentioned about our photos on the walls, the other week.

Every now and then, something I remembered that I haven’t seen, I realise it has since been lost, such as my grandmother’s hand held mirror.

On other occasions, items I thought had been lost to the food, are actually safe and sound, such as a pashmina I bought in Malaysia quite a number of years ago.

Now, I don’t know how it could have been saved, as the drawer I had all my scarves, wraps and pashminas in, had gone under water, and except for a couple of very special items, I threw them all out.

This wrap may have been in the clothes I packed before we

evacuated or I simply forgot that I had it.

Either way, it was a special feeling to fnd it, even if it is just my memory going.

Recently the federal government, via the Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler (pictured), has provided Southern Cross University with $3.8 million to help us locals affected by the foods.

It is to help support over 200 people left with post-traumatic stress disorder after their experiences in 2022.

It is a stepped care model and if you are feeling like this is something you want to get involved with you can register your interest in the clinical trial at compassiontrial@scu. edu.au

Little steps.

Experience the Joy of Creativity at the TOGETHER Arts & Community Wellbeing Day

Mark your calendars for an enriching day of arts and culture at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) this May. The NRCG, in collaboration with artist and educator Claudie Frock and the Ballina Shire Council Community Recovery Team, is excited to present the TOGETHER Arts & Community Wellbeing Day. This special event is scheduled for Saturday, 11 May 2024, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and is set to transform the NRCG & Ignite Studios creative precinct into a vibrant hub of artistic and cultural activities.

Event Highlights:

• Natural Fibre Weaving: Join Tania Marlowe and Deb Cole from Jugan Dandii for a session of gentle natural fbre weaving.

• Pop Up Play Space: Experience the fun with Roundabout Theatre’s Lollipop Ladies in a colorful game’s installation in the NRCG green space.

• Collective Collage Workshop: Dive into a creative collage-making

session with Claudie Frock & Mia Zapata.

• Inclusive Gallery Movement Tours: Move and groove through the gallery with dancer and performance artist Katie Cooper-Wares in the DANCE THE ART tour.

• Youth Virtual Reality and Digital Storytelling Workshops: Engage with cuttingedge technology in art workshops led by Sean Spencer from Social Futures Computer Clubhouse.

TOGETHER is designed as a free, fun, and accessible event where community members of all ages can engage with some of the region’s most imaginative artists and facilitators. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals and families to explore their creativity, connect with others, and enjoy a playful day in the heart of Ballina. Accessibility and Additional Information:

• Auslan Interpretation: The event will include Auslan interpretation to ensure accessibility.

• Wheelchair

Accessibility: The venue is fully accessible by wheelchair.

• Sensory Friendly Space: A quiet space will be available for those who might need a break from the sensory stimulation.

• No Bookings Required: There is no need to book in advance. Feel free to turn up and participate in any of the creative sessions that interest you. This program is supported by both the Australian Government and NSW Government through the Community Recovery Program and represents a key arts and cultural initiative of the Ballina Shire Council. For any accessibility queries or further information, please contact Ella Millard at Ella.Millard@ballina. nsw.gov.au. Join us for a day of creativity and community spirit at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery & Ignite Studios Creative precinct located at the corner of Cherry St and Crane St, Ballina. Come along, and let’s create and connect TOGETHER!

Tweed Hospital

Northern NSW Local Health District services

moving 8am, Tuesday 14 May 2024

Public hospital and emergency services are moving to Tweed Valley Hospital.

If you need emergency medical treatment after 8am on 14 May go to the Tweed Valley Hospital Emergency Department at 771 Cudgen Road, Cudgen.

The Tweed Hospital, Powell Street, will close at 8am on Tuesday 14 May 2024.

Dial triple zero (000) for an ambulance if you require urgent medical assistance.

$500,000 Upgrade Set to Enhance Nursing Training at TAFE NSW Ballina

The NSW Government is ramping up its efforts to meet the increasing demand for healthcare professionals in the Northern Rivers region with a signifcant $500,000 investment to upgrade and expand the nursing training facilities at TAFE NSW Ballina. This funding boost aims to address the anticipated national shortfall of 123,000 nurses by 2030 by enhancing educational infrastructure and capacity.

The enhancements at TAFE NSW Ballina include the addition of a state-of-the-art simulated nursing ward and a dedicated home care training room. These new facilities are designed to offer nursing students a more immersive and practical

learning experience, preparing them for the realities of healthcare environments.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, who recently visited the campus, emphasized the importance of

the upgrade. “This investment will greatly enhance the training opportunities for our students, bringing simulation learning experiences up to the best practice standards,” said Minister Whan. He noted that the upgrades

would allow the campus to accommodate an additional 32 students per week across various nursing programs, including Certifcates III and IV in Health Services Assistance and the Diploma of Nursing. The project is set to

begin construction in May and is expected to be completed by August 2024. The upgrades are not only a response to the growing healthcare needs but also a strategic move to support the largest employment sector in the Ballina

Shire.

“The healthcare and social assistance sector is the largest employer in the region, and we are committed to investing in facilities, training, and industry-standard equipment at TAFE NSW to meet this workforce demand,” Minister Whan added. He also highlighted that the investment would prepare local healthcare students for success and support the region’s critical skills needs.

This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the NSW Government to enhance the infrastructure at TAFE NSW, ensuring that it continues to deliver high standards of education and training to future generations of healthcare workers in the region.

$50,000 in Local Sport Grants Awarded to Five Lismore Clubs for 2023-2024

STATE Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn, announced today that fve local sports clubs will beneft from a shared $50,000 as part of the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program for the 2023-2024 period. This program, managed by the NSW Offce of Sport, continues to support sports organizations in upgrading their facilities, equipment, and in staging events and training sessions.

Ms. Saffn expressed her enthusiasm for the grants, noting, “This funding will assist our local clubs and their

dedicated volunteers to offer more opportunities for community members of all ages and abilities to engage in sport and active recreation.”

The recipients of this year’s grants include a diverse range of projects aimed at enhancing local sports infrastructure and community involvement:

• Lismore Old Boys Rugby League Incorporated (Marist Brothers Rams Rugby League Football Club, established in 1912): Awarded $20,000 to foster a safe and inclusive culture through a coaching course aimed at encouraging

more participation from girls and women in rugby league. The funds will also support enhancements to their website and promotional activities.

• Dunoon United Football Club: Receiving $15,956 to build a chained backstop fence

at Balzer Park to prevent balls from entering a dangerously overgrown and steep area, with a matching co-contribution from the club.

• Kyogle Boxing Club Incorporated: Granted $7,729 for their ‘Heat for Health Heart Healing and Recovery’ project, which includes the purchase of a four-person infrared sauna to support recovery alongside existing methods like hydrotherapy and massage.

• Goonellabah Football Club: Allocated $4,103 for the ‘More boots on the feld’ project, which includes hosting two

‘come and try’ muster days to attract more juniors, senior females, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players for the 2024 season.

• Sporting Shooters Association of Australia NSW UrbenvilleWoodenbong branch: Funded $2,212 for the purchase of wireless remotes and receivers for clay target throwers, enhancing safety and competition effciency at their range.

The NSW Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper (pictured), highlighted the broader impact of the program: “A total

of 579 local projects across the state have shared in $4.4 million in NSW Government funding under this year’s program. We’ve doubled the funding for individual projects, enabling grassroots community sports clubs and associations to expand their programs and improve their equipment to better support participants.”

For more details on the Local Sport Grant Program and how to apply in future rounds, interested parties are encouraged to visit NSW Sport Grant Program.

‘It’s not love, it’s coercive control’

The NSW Government has launched an advertising campaign to raise public awareness and understanding of coercive control.

Using the tagline, “It’s not love, it’s coercive control. Know the signs of abuse,” this campaign uses video, audio and static advertisements with the slogan to show coercive control as a pattern of abusive behaviour over time.

Coercive control is insidious and can manifest in many ways. It is a pattern of behaviour which may include fnancial abuse, threats against pets or loved ones, tracking someone’s movements, or isolating them from friends and family to control them.

This campaign was a recommendation of the Joint Select Committee on Coercive Control, which highlighted the need to support community awareness of coercive control prior to the commencement of the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Coercive Control) Act 2022.

NSW is the frst Australian jurisdiction to introduce a standalone dedicated offence of coercive control.

The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Coercive Control) Act 2022 will criminalise coercive control in current or former intimate partner relationships in NSW starting from 1 July 2024. If found guilty, perpetrators can face up to a maximum of 7 years in prison.

The campaign was developed with over 70 stakeholders from the Coercive Control Implementation and Evaluation Taskforce and ten associated reference groups. This included victim-survivors through the Lived Expertise Reference Group.

This campaign follows the launch of a website in August 2023, designed to ensure the NSW public has access to credible information about coercive control.

NSW Police are also undergoing coercive control training, to ensure they are prepared

for the implementation of this reform.

Members of the NSW Government will be joined by other NSW Parliamentary Members, in a signal that a multipartisan approach will be taken on issues of women’s safety and domestic and family violence.

The importance of an awareness campaign on this topic was laid bare by market research which showed that 32 percent of respondents had not heard of the term coercive control, and only 26 percent had both heard the term and understood what it meant.

Coercive control has been strongly linked to intimate partner homicide, with the NSW Domestic Violence Death Review Team fnding that in 97% of intimate partner domestic violence homicides in NSW between 2000 and 2018 were preceded by the perpetrator using emotional and psychological abuse as a form of coercive control towards the victim.

Prue Car, Deputy Premier of New South Wales, said:

“Coercive control is an insidious and damaging form of domestic violence – it can leave victim survivors feeling isolated, vulnerable, and alone.

“This campaign is vital in ensuring the broader public know what coercive control looks like, and perpetrators

know what they are doing is wrong.

“The past few weeks have brought into sharp focus the need for urgent action on women’s safety.

“The NSW Government is committed to taking meaningful action when it comes to domestic and family violence, with a special Cabinet meeting to be held this week to discuss the Government’s response to gendered and domestic violence.

“All options are on the table when it comes to the prevention of family and domestic violence.”

Attorney General Michael Daley said:

“From 1 July, coercive control in current and former intimate partner relationships will be a crime punishable by up to seven years’ imprisonment.

“The NSW Government is committed to addressing domestic abuse, including coercive control.

“This campaign highlights that abuse against a current or former intimate partner is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

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

“This campaign is vital

because it helps build community awareness of coercive control and what it looks like in intimate partner relationships, with the ultimate goal of saving lives.

“These ads depict abusive behaviours that are, regrettably, all too familiar to some people in our community. It shines a light on this insidious abuse before it escalates and results in homicide.

“Coercive control laws will have a profound impact on the way that our justice system assesses and manages domestic violence cases, and the government is now making sure people recognise the signs and know what it is.”

Emma Hurst, Member of the Legislative Council, Member of the Animal Justice Party, said:

“As someone who has been the victim of domestic violence, I have also experienced the effects of coercive control. It is hard to explain the experience of coercive control, but someone having to know where you are at all times, and being continuously verbally abusive, has the ability to destroy someone’s life in so many ways.

“Animals are frequently used as tools of coercive control, which can involve threatening violence towards the animal, or to kill or get rid of the animal, if the victim does not

comply. We continue to look towards legislative options to tackle this insidious form of coercive control.”

Member of the Alex Greenwich, Independent Member for Sydney said:

“The NSW Parliament came together to pass landmark legislation to criminalise coercive control, and now with the nation’s focus rightly on gendered violence this advertisement campaign seeks to make NSW a safer place by helping people in all types of relationships, including same-sex relationships, recognise and report coercive control.”

Michael Regan, Independent Member for Wakehurst said:

“Having seen up close the personal damage coercive control has on a person and those around them, I am proud that NSW Parliament is leading the nation with these reforms. We need the whole country to get on board on now.”

Dr. Joe McGirr, Independent Member for Wagga Wagga said:

“It’s alarming to realise that 97 per cent of domestic violence murder victims had been subject to coercive control prior to their deaths.

“Coercive control is a red fag that can point to horrifying outcomes so it’s very important to raise awareness about this totally unacceptable abuse as part of wider efforts to prevent

domestic violence and improve safety for women and children.”

Roy Butler, Independent Member for Barwon said:

“The signs of Domestic Violence are often obvious: physical injury, loud, aggressive interactions - it’s a scourge in our community. Coercive Control can be even more damaging, and when it occurs, it’s often not noticeable to anyone but the victim and perpetrator. Coercive Control can also be a precursor to physical violence and has no place in society. I welcome this new protection against coercive control.”

Judy Hannan, Independent Member for Wollondilly said:

“While we stand here to call out violence against women, we need to remember we have a voice and there are many others that should be here today who have been taken at no fault of their own. It is the victim’s silence that we need to remember and we need to call out for them.”

SUPPORT SERVICES: If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000. For confdential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.

Lifeline Northern NSW Seeks Volunteers to Join Crisis Support Team Amid Rising Demand

Lifeline Northern NSW is inviting community members to become volunteer crisis supporters, responding to the growing need for emotional and crisis support across the region. The call for volunteers comes as Lifeline has observed a 35% increase in demand for its services since the COVID-19 pandemic began, further exacerbated recently by economic pressures.

Volunteering as a crisis supporter involves undergoing extensive training to prepare individuals for handling sensitive calls, offering hope and empathetic listening to those in distress. The training, which initially takes place online over eight to ten weeks, equips volunteers to manage

a range of challenging situations with calm and effective responses.

Kathryn Russell (pictured), a youth program worker and volunteer crisis supporter, shared her transformative experience with Lifeline.

“The training was unexpectedly lifechanging. It taught me

deep listening, empathy, and how to maintain composure during intense situations,” Russell said. She recalled a poignant moment when she helped a caller develop a safety plan, providing them with a renewed sense of hope.

Crisis supporters typically commit to one four-hour shift every

fortnight, with fexible training schedules and volunteer hours to accommodate varying lifestyles. Lisa Barnes, a team leader at Lifeline, emphasized the inclusivity of the program. “We welcome individuals from all backgrounds, ages, and experiences. You don’t need to have prior

counselling experience; we’re looking for empathic individuals eager to make a difference,” Barnes stated.

Lifeline Northern NSW is one of the 43 Lifeline centres nationwide, where over 4,000 volunteers answer close to one million calls each year. The organization

provides 24-hour support, including phone calls, text messages, and online chats, addressing the critical need for suicide prevention and crisis intervention. This opportunity not only offers a chance to contribute meaningfully to the community but also provides volunteers with invaluable skills and experiences in the mental health feld. For more information on becoming a crisis supporter and other ways to help, visit northernNSW.lifeline. org.au.

If this story or any personal issues raise concerns for you, please reach out to Lifeline at any time by calling 13 11 14, texting 0477 131 114, or engaging in an online chat at lifeline. org.au.

Nearly $1.4M in Grants Awarded to Strengthen Rural Communities Across Australia

In a signifcant boost for rural development, the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) has announced that nearly $1.4 million in grants have been distributed to 129 community groups across remote, rural, and regional Australia.

These grants, part of the FRRR’s Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) program, aim to support a variety of local initiatives designed to enhance community cohesion and resilience.

The funding was allocated across three streams: community enhancements like upgrades to local facilities; COVID-19 recovery projects such as the creation of cultural precincts; and disaster preparedness

and recovery initiatives, which include programs tailored for traumaresponsive community healing.

This round of SRC funding saw an unprecedented demand with 450 applications submitted, requesting over $4.5 million in support for projects collectively valued at more than $19 million. In response to the high demand, FRRR has streamlined its application process, signifcantly reducing the time from application to award to just nine weeks.

Jill Karena, FRRR’s Place Portfolio Lead, highlighted the shifting landscape of funding in rural areas, noting a decrease in traditional government and local business support.

“The SRC program’s fexibility and yearround availability are crucial, especially as communities transition from immediate disaster response to long-term recovery,” Karena

explained. “This round we observed a notable increase in applications for community events funding and initiatives aimed at boosting local economies through tourism and other activities.”

Despite the generous grant allocations, there remains a signifcant unmet need within these communities. An additional 85 projects were ready for funding, seeking over $900,000 which could not be met due to limited resources.

This underscores the critical role that small grants play in sustaining rural community groups and why FRRR is actively seeking new partners to expand its funding capabilities.

“Groups have expressed the importance of having access to timely and secure funding to support not just immediate needs but also medium and long-term goals,” said Ms. Karena. “These projects foster a strong

sense of place and identity, and they require continuous support. We hope to engage more collaborative funders to join us in nurturing the heart of Australia’s rural sectors.”

A complete list of the grant recipients is available on the FRRR’s website.

The SRC program is supported by a variety of donors, from private individuals to larger foundations, all listed on the FRRR’s website. Community groups and local not-for-profts are encouraged to review the program guidelines and consider applying for future rounds of funding. More information about the SRC program can be found at www.frrr.org. au/src.

Enhanced Public Bus Services Announced for Tweed Region Ahead of New Hospital Opening

The NSW Labor Government has unveiled a signifcant expansion of bus services in the Tweed region, designed to meet the anticipated increase in demand coinciding with the opening of the new Tweed Valley Hospital.

Starting Monday, 6 May 2024, several bus route timetables will be revised to improve connectivity within the Tweed Valley region,

particularly to the new hospital.

Key enhancements to the bus service include:

• Route 609 from Murwillumbah: This route will see an addition of 10 weekly trips directly serving the new hospital. These trips are scheduled to accommodate the shift patterns of hospital staff, with services in the morning and afternoon.

• Route 600

(Banora Point to Tweed Mall): Previously connecting Banora Point with Tweed Mall via Tweed City and the Tweed Hospital, this route will now extend from Tweed Heads West to Coolangatta from Banora Central, enhancing cross-border accessibility.

• Route 601: This service will be modifed to run from Tweed Mall directly to the new

Tweed Valley Hospital, catering to the needs of staff, patients, and visitors.

• Route 605: Extended to operate between Murwillumbah and Tweed Mall via Powell Street and Keith Compton Drive, this route will allow residents of Murwillumbah to travel directly to Tweed Mall, where they can connect with Queensland Translink services.

• Route 603: It will include stops at the new bus stations on Cudgen Road right outside the hospital entrance.

Ahead of the hospital’s offcial opening on 14 May, existing routes 600 and 601 will continue to serve the current hospital via Powell Street. After the new hospital becomes operational, these services will run via Wharf Street at Tweed Heads and will no longer divert via Powell Street.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, emphasized the strategic importance of these upgrades, stating, “The NSW Government understands the critical need for accessible healthcare. These new bus services will ensure that patients, visitors, and staff have reliable and convenient transportation to the Tweed Valley Hospital.”

Janelle Saffn, Parliamentary Secretary

for Disaster Recovery and Member for Lismore, highlighted the benefts for patients with mobility issues, “Better bus services that run direct to the facility are a signifcant improvement for those visiting the new hospital, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges.”

Emily Suvaal, NSW Duty MLC for Tweed, encouraged local residents to utilize the improved services, “The NSW Labor Government is committed to enhancing public transport in our growing regional communities. These new services will greatly beneft Tweed residents, and I commend Transport for NSW and bus operator Kinetic for their efforts in upgrading our public transport infrastructure.”

For detailed timetable information and to plan your trip, visit Transport NSW. https:// transportnsw.info/trip#/ trip

Summerland Farm Behind the Scenes Thursday 9 May

Summerland Farm is opening their doors on Thursday 9am – 2pm to showcase the fantastic job vacancies they have for people with disability in the local area. I have included some information below – bit I also have 4 case studies of current employees if you would like to write a story before Thursday. If you would like to attend on Thursday please let me know and I will lock it in with the team.

With over 45 job

vacancies for people with disabilities, Summerland Farm is opening its doors on 9 May, for a ‘behind the scenes’ guided tour of its many supported employment workplaces, and pathway programs.

A place of inclusion –Summerland Farm is one of the most successful disability enterprises in Australia, providing jobs for over 120 people with disability.

The public are invited to enjoy a guided tour, where visitors can meet

the teams ,and enjoy demonstrations and experiences at each of the businesses.

Visitors can also fnd out more on Summerland Farms new School Leavers Employment Supports (SLES) program and School Work Experience opportunities aailable.

The businesses and employment opportunities on show include:

• Restaurant &

Functions - Kitchen hands, baristas, customer service, food preparation, events.

• Retail Hub - Customer service, baristas, food preparation, ticket booth operators, food packing.

• Animal HubAnimal care, cleaning, feeding, and host animal encounters.

• Horticulture - Fruit packers, fruit graders, forklift operators, macadamia sorting.

• Farm Operations -

Fruit pickers, machinery operators, ride-on lawn mowing, tractor drivers.

• Administration - Customer service, computer work, invoicing, administration jobs.

• Site ServicesKeeping our gardens, lawns and customer area clean and tidy across the farm. Includes egg grading and packaging up eggs.

• Facility Management - Lawn mowing, whipper

snipping, weeding, leaf blowing, ride on lawn mowing.

Bookings are essential. Please book online here by scanning the QR Code

LIVING HOT: SURVIVING AND THRIVING ON OUR HEATING PLANET

Clive Hamilton will discuss the notion of how to prepare and manage the challenges thrown up by a warming climate in Australia. This topic is explored in “Living Hot”, the book Clive has co-authored with George Wilkenfeld. Clive will be in Lismore on Thursday 13 June at 7:00pm to give a sober assessment of

our climate change predicament and also explore how we can survive and even thrive. After his presentation, there will be opportunities for audience members to discuss Clive’s ideas.

Clive is a professor at Charles Sturt University in Canberra. He has been named a ‘living legend’ by academics

and scholars for his infuential work on social and environmental issues.

Tickets are $10 or $5 concession. The Club’s restaurant is open from 5.30pm.

Lismore Politics in the Pub is a non-proft organisation and all monies raised go towards speaker expenses and event running costs.

The committee is run by volunteers who will be delighted to see you on the night.

Scan the QR Code for more information.

SafeWork NSW Announces $1.2 Million Fine for Orica After Cobalt Dust Exposure

SafeWork NSW has today confrmed that Orica Australia Pty Ltd has been fned $1.2 million by the District Court of NSW following a signifcant breach of workplace safety laws. The penalty comes after the company admitted to exposing two of its workers to hazardous cobalt dust over several years, leading to serious health consequences including occupational asthma.

The prosecution, led by SafeWork NSW,

stemmed from incidents occurring between 2014 and 2019 at Orica’s Kooragang site. Orica pleaded guilty to a Category 1 offence under section 19 of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011—the highest level of offence under NSW law, indicating reckless conduct concerning risk of death, serious injury, or illness.

At the centre of this case was the exposure to cobalt dust, a known respiratory sensitizing agent that can cause

severe occupational illnesses. This exposure occurred in the Cobalt Catalyst Manufacturing Shed at Orica’s Kooragang Island facility, where the affected workers were employed. The court noted that the dust was

visibly produced during various manufacturing stages, posing consistent health risks.

Cobalt dust can lead to severe respiratory issues, including asthma, lung fbrosis, and damage, with potential for other critical effects such as

cardiac issues and liver and kidney congestion.

The court highlighted that Orica’s efforts to mitigate these risks were substantially insuffcient and poorly executed.

Trent Curtin, Head of SafeWork NSW, commented on the court’s decision: “The court confrmed that the risk of exposure was inevitable, and Orica’s attempts to safeguard against this were grossly inadequate. This prosecution should serve as a resolute message to

all industries: SafeWork NSW will not hesitate to enforce the full strength of the law to protect workers’ safety.”

For further details on health monitoring protocols related to cobalt dust, please refer to the SafeWork Australia guidance:

Samantha’s Book

Reconstruction Begins: Lismore’s Damaged Structures Demolished for

New Facilities

A life of death and shadows eventually freed

Title: The Orphan and the Albatross

Author: John Camillo

Price $22.95

Publisher: Shawline

Publishing

By Samantha Elley

Tommy has had a hard life already in his short years.

He is an orphan who escapes the fre of London by managing to board a cargo ship. His luck continues on its negative course when the ship is plundered by pirates who capture him and take him to their hidden base in the midst of a jungle.

When Short Shanks, the wild and crazy pirate, visits the lair, Tommy hides on his ship but is found by the

In a signifcant development for Lismore’s recovery, demolition work has started on eight buildings that were critically damaged during the 2022 food disaster. This marks a pivotal step in the city’s efforts to rebuild and revitalize affected areas.

Brett Lee, the Council’s program manager, highlighted the necessity of these demolitions for public safety and the future reactivation of the sites. “These buildings have long served the community, but the extensive damage from the February 2022 natural disaster means it’s time to clear the way for new developments,” he stated.

Demolition activities kicked off last week with the takedown of the old Essential Energy building located at the corner of Ballina Road and Conway Street. The next structures slated for

removal include the old Scout Hall on Wilson Street and the Humbley Oval Hockey Club Kiosk.

Plans are also set for the demolition of the toilet block and pumphouse at Lismore Lake, to be replaced by a new modular toilet to serve the lake park patrons. Furthermore, the weatherboard building at Sam Trimble Oval is due to be replaced with a new facility that includes an accessible toilet with

timed locks, a large shade shelter, lockable storage, and utility access. The existing brick amenities block at this location will also undergo upgrades.

At Neilson Park in East Lismore, the canteen or old cricket shed will be razed to make room for a new modular toilet/changeroom. Similarly, the amenities block at Wade Park and McKenzie Park in North Lismore are scheduled for demolition

to pave the way for the installation of modern modular toilets. These developments are part of a broader initiative to not only enhance the infrastructure but also to ensure Lismore’s resilience and readiness for future challenges. The community looks forward to the completion of these projects, which promise improved amenities and a revitalized urban environment.

Have Your Say on Byron Shire’s New Active Transport Plan

surly captain and cast adrift.

The story then unfolds of the experiences Tommy goes through, from living on an island with natives and other wild adventures on other doomed vessels in his very, very long life. He eventually shares his story with a young man who turns out to be a distant descendant.

For John Camillo, the ‘Rime of the Ancient Mariner’ is a fascinating piece of literature and so this story of Tommy the orphan has been adapted from the original poem. His goal with this children’s book is for Coleridge’s classic to fnd a new and younger audience, revitalising the interest in a great poem and story.

You can order your copy of e Orphan and the Albatross at shawlinepublishing. com.au

Byron Shire Council is inviting feedback from all residents who walk, roll, and ride within the community. The council has undertaken a signifcant review of its existing Bike Plan and Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan, both of which were initially developed in 2018 after extensive community input. Six years on, it’s time to evaluate the plans’ effectiveness, set new priorities, and celebrate the achievements thus far.

Shelley Currie, the Council’s Road Safety Offcer, highlighted a major update in the review process: the merging of the two previous plans into a singular, comprehensive document dubbed the Active Transport Plan.

“The goals, objectives, and outcomes of the previous plans closely align, so consolidating them into one unifed plan is a strategic move to streamline our

efforts and resources,” explained Ms. Currie. Objectives of the Active Transport Plan include:

• Enhancing opportunities for active travel.

• Boosting the connectivity of paths and cycleways throughout the Shire.

• Designing and implementing highquality infrastructure to ensure maximum safety and accessibility.

• Providing amenities that enhance the attractiveness of walking, rolling, and

riding.

• Encouraging the use of bicycles for shorter trips.

A draft of the Active Transport Plan is currently on public exhibition, and Byron Shire Council is seeking input from the community to refne and enhance the proposal. Residents are encouraged to review the draft plan and contribute their perspectives and suggestions.

Details for Public

Feedback:

• Read the Draft: The

draft Active Transport Plan is available for public viewing.

• Provide Feedback: Residents can submit their comments and suggestions to help shape the fnal plan.

• Deadline for Submissions: Feedback must be submitted by 31 May 2024.

For more information on the Active Transport Plan and detailed instructions on how to make a submission, please visit Byron Shire Council’s offcial website at Have your say on our Active Transport PlanByron Shire Council. This is a valuable opportunity for residents of Byron Shire to infuence local transportation policies and infrastructure, ensuring the community’s needs and safety are prioritized. Don’t miss your chance to contribute to a more connected and accessible Byron Shire.

SAE and BayFM Unveil ‘BaySounds’ - A New SongWriting Contest to Elevate Local Musicians

SAE Creative Media Institute, in collaboration with BayFM, is excited to announce the launch of ‘BaySounds,’ a novel song-writing competition designed to spotlight the burgeoning talent of emerging musicians in the Northern Rivers region. This initiative invites artists aged 16 and above to showcase their original compositions, with submissions accepted on the SAE website until Sunday, 16 June 2024. The grand prize winner will enjoy the privilege of having their song professionally recorded, mixed, and mastered at the state-of-the-art SAE Byron Bay recording studios by an SAE audio lecturer and talented fnal year students. Additionally, the winning track will receive rotational airplay on BayFM, and the artist will have a special

opportunity to perform live at SAE’s Open Day event on Saturday, 17 August—broadcast simultaneously on BayFM.

The judging panel for BaySounds features esteemed fgures such as Dirk Terrill, SAE Senior Lecturer; Ange Kent, President, and broadcaster at BayFM;

and Nathan Kaye, BayFM broadcaster and musician, who together bring a wealth of industry experience and insight.

Dr. Luke McMillan, General Manager at SAE, emphasized the signifcance of this collaboration: “SAE has a proud history of nurturing talents who

excel across the global music scene. With BaySounds, we aim to continue this legacy by empowering local artists and providing them with a platform to shine.”

Dirk Terrill expressed excitement about the dual benefts of the competition: “BaySounds not only gives emerging artists

valuable exposure but also enriches our students’ educational experience by involving them in real-world, professional activities.”

Ange Kent elaborated on how BayFM supports local music: “During the competition, we’ll feature songs from local artists on-air, with a special showcase of the

top 10 entries after the competition concludes.

The live performance opportunity for the winner underscores our commitment to promoting live local talent.”

Nathan Kaye shared his enthusiasm for discovering new artists: “BaySounds is a fantastic platform for artists to hone essential skills needed for festival and grant applications, and to effectively present themselves to the music industry.”

For those interested in participating, entries for BaySounds are now open. For more information or to submit your song, please visit sae.edu.au/baysounds. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your music career and potentially broadcast your talent across the Northern Rivers and beyond.

“Leemo has

views on just about anything”

‘MUM JANE’ WON! (‘THIS’ TIME!)’

A er last week when I told ‘Mum Jane’ I would be away on ‘Mother’s Day’ things are still uncompanionable between us. Hmm! I’ve pondered about how I might be fully restored to the old woman’s grace & favour. (“Leemo Cat” back.) SO, I told her I would bring in our mail. We only get mail every 2nd day, so I sussed out I COULD do this task in between my sleepies. BUT I hadn’t counted on the rain. Oooh, it’s been horrendous. I have to put on my 4 mini wellies & Paddington Bear rain hat and venture up the challenging slope to our letterbox. I then do an agile big (graceful) leap to the letter box, grab the stu in it, and then briskly frisk back down the slope with the stu in my mouth. (Don’t worry… there’s a method in my madness!!) Yesterday I found something in our mail and knew Mum would be overcome with gratitude & joy; AND, once I told her about it she would forgive my misdemeanours. SO, I asked, ‘Mumsie, “ARE YOU FREEE?” I got a meanie stare-glare & response of ‘don’t suck up Leemo; I am NOT watching ‘Are You Being Served’ so what do you want?’ Not to be deterred I spoke in a positive & cheery tone. ‘Mum, you won’t believe what I found in our letterbox to-day! Remember you used to get those catalogues with useful, household & personal beautifying stu in them? Well, a NEW one arrived to-day. It’s called “NIFTISTUFF” and the products in it are just perfect for things I know you worry about. (Ooooh, I was so excited!) For instance, Mum,

from this catalogue we can purchase many ni y things, and they are all so so CHEAP! ere’s a book called ‘SO, I’M DEAD. NOW WHAT?’ It has easy instructions Mum. AND THEN, there are 2 products from a rm called ‘LeScammo’. An Age Blemish Cream (I think for knees looking at the picture?) and a cream called e ‘Collogeniteo Secreto’ (sourced from the mountain springs of Burkina Farti) for your pruney face. It makes wrinkles and baggy eyes simply disappear. (I wonder where they go?) And Mum, a cream for warts & skin tags called à La Naturellei. Oooh, you’ll be so beguiling once you’ve applied them.’ I awaited pats, hugs and treats; none were forthcoming?

Hmmm! I’ll up the ante! AND, MUM, the best buy is a CLOCK that relieves confusion and anxiety, enhancing the life of people your age who may get muddled. It has a medication reminder screen with a ‘Wiggles’ song audible alarm, “AND” 8 OTHER reminder alarms & hourly chimes You’ll never forget to ll or clean my bowls or check my Litter Tray Mum, how helpful is that?’ Crikey, now I’m worried, STILL no response? ‘Leemo, make tea please. Remember the town of Nobby you were going to visit on your ‘proposed’ road trip to Qld? Well, Leems, I checked out stu about Nobby. Human Population 609. e ‘Nobby Times’ had an ad. for a RATTER..e.g., a cat with remarkable physical skills to catch all the crocodile sized rats in their town. I’ve sent your ‘Expression of Interest’ and Resume. You got the job Leems. You’ll be picked up Wed. and taken to Nobby on a bus.’ Ooooh, this is SO UNFAIR! e Old Bat sat back with a smile on her dial, beckoned me and gave me many hugs when I jumped on her lap quivering in fear. ‘Leems, what WOULD I do without you? I’ve tricked you, SO “I” WON. SO, what have you planned for me for Mother’s Day? Whoohoo! (‘Mum Jane’ is an appalling example of a supposedly KINDLY old lady & Mother) Nitey with hissy purrs, Leemo.

Candidate Briefng Sessions Announced for Upcoming NSW Local Government Elections

Are you considering a role in local government?

If you’re thinking about running for Council in the upcoming NSW Local Government elections, you’re invited to attend a candidate briefng session. The sessions are designed to provide prospective candidates with essential information about the responsibilities and operations of being a council member.

Former Lismore Mayor, Jenny Dowell (pictured), will host four candidate briefng sessions in the Tweed area during May and June. With extensive

experience in local government, Ms. Dowell will share valuable insights and guidance for those looking to serve

their community. Ms. Dowell emphasized the signifcance of the role: “Being a councillor is

an enormous honour but with that honour, there are big responsibilities. Communities expect and deserve all candidates to go into the election with eyes wide open.”

The briefng sessions will cover critical topics such as:

• The steps to becoming a candidate.

• The operational functions of councils

• The governance role of elected community representatives Understanding these aspects is crucial for anyone considering entering the local government arena.

$33.7 Million Upgrade Begins at TAFE NSW Kingscliff to Boost Regional Vocational Training

TAFE NSW Kingscliff has embarked on a signifcant development journey with the initiation of a $33.7 million upgrade to enhance its facilities and expand vocational training opportunities in the Tweed region.

The Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan (pictured), offcially marked the commencement of construction by turning the frst sod at the site of the new multi-purpose building.

This pivotal $25 million building is designed to be a versatile educational hub, poised to host a diverse array of courses, including animal studies, aviation, creative services, and electrotechnology. Its establishment is aligned with the regional goals to bolster skills in key sectors such as construction, healthcare, wildlife conservation, and aviation, which are essential for supporting local industries and economic growth.

The initial phase of this extensive upgrade is set to conclude in June of this year. It includes a substantial $8.8 million allocation for refurbishing several

existing structures on campus, particularly those used by health and community services.

This refurbishment is aimed at enhancing the training environment for health students, who will beneft from a state-of-the-art simulated hospital setting, thereby gaining crucial hands-on experience.

Minister Whan highlighted the strategic importance of this upgrade in response to the growing local demand for skilled professionals across various industries. “The demand for skilled nurses, builders, and electricians in Northern NSW is expected to rise signifcantly over the next decade,” he stated. “This new facility is not

just a building; it’s a future-proofng project intended to meet the increasing enrolment fgures and workforce demands in the Tweed region.”

TAFE NSW Kingscliff is integral to the local economy, providing residents with the necessary skills to meet employer demands and supporting the anticipated regional growth as more individuals and families choose to relocate to this desirable part of the world.

“The investment in TAFE NSW Kingscliff is not only about expanding our capacity to train the next generation of professionals,” Minister Whan explained. “It’s also about ensuring our

students and educators have access to modern, functional classrooms and the latest equipment to facilitate industryready training.”

This ongoing investment in infrastructure at TAFE NSW not only aims to enhance the learning experience but also ensures that the institution remains a cornerstone for meeting the educational and employment needs of the community. With improved facilities and resources, TAFE NSW Kingscliff is set to deliver better educational outcomes and play a pivotal role in addressing the state’s critical skills needs.

Who’s amused?... by

Nigel Dawe

Just to make it clear from the outset, I have nothing against TV or technology, if anything, I’m just as hooked and dependent on it as the next person, but this doesn’t excuse the all-pervasive way in which it has come to utterly consume our lives.

The next time you sit down to watch your favourite show, look at how the furniture is even arranged in our ‘living’ rooms, to ensure that we are immersed in the flickering spectacle that so utterly negates any face-to-face interaction with the ‘real’ people that we are in the actual presence of. Sadly, most of us enter a trance once we take a seat, fully absorbed by the fictitious, made to seem real, world of television.

One of my all-time favourite songs is called Working Class Hero by John Lennon, and it contains a rather haunting reflection of this modernday predicament. Wittily, albeit prophetically, Lennon observes, “Keep you doped with religion and sex and TV, and you think you’re so clever and classless and free, But you’re all f@#%ing peasants as far as I can see.” Offensive and unflattering – yes, but touching on something that can’t be denied –most certainly. Where did our need for escapism and distraction become the overwhelmingly dominant trait that so outright defines us? Or am I just flattering the ‘uniqueness’ of us modernites to suggest that we are anything new in terms of being drawn to the frivolous; after all, there was an ancient Roman saying, ‘Panem et circenses’ or ‘Bread and circuses’ which alluded to the same simple

Nearly $1.4M in Grants Awarded to Strengthen Rural Communities Across

Australia

obsession humans have for being amused, albeit simply pleased.

As if to somehow counter this crude inclination to outright overlook the sublime that plays out under our noses, the Nobel Prize-winning poet Wislawa Szymborska once admitted, “I misbehaved in the cosmos yesterday. I lived around the clock without questions, without surprise. I performed daily tasks as if only that were required.” Which is one of the most subtly scathing requests for each of us to wake up, and start appreciating the unfathomable miracle that is existence. Relatedly, Doris Lessing once beautifully confessed, “I don’t understand people being bored. I find life so enormously exciting all the time. I enjoy everything enormously if only because life is so short. What have I gotanother forty years of this extraordinary life - if I’m lucky? But most people live as if they have a weight put on them.”

And a considerable amount of this ‘weight’ gets applied through the meaninglessness of the amusements that we expose ourselves to.

If we are not careful, society runs the risk of situating the abjectly ephemeral at the very centre of its being. Or as W. H. Auden once foresaw many decades ago, “What the mass media offers is not popular art, but entertainment which is intended to be consumed like food, forgotten, and replaced by a new dish.” And as such, we should all know by now, the risks that ‘fast foods’ directly pose to our overall health and constitution.

In a signifcant boost for rural development, the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) has announced that nearly $1.4 million in grants have been distributed to 129 community groups across remote, rural, and regional Australia. These grants, part of the FRRR’s Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) program, aim to support a variety of local initiatives designed to enhance community cohesion and resilience.

The funding was allocated across three streams: community enhancements like upgrades to local facilities; COVID-19 recovery projects such as the creation of cultural precincts; and disaster preparedness and recovery initiatives, which include programs tailored for traumaresponsive community healing.

This round of SRC funding saw an unprecedented demand with 450 applications submitted, requesting over $4.5 million in support for projects collectively valued at more than $19 million.

In response to the high demand, FRRR has streamlined its application process, signifcantly reducing the time from application to award to just nine weeks.

Jill Karena, FRRR’s Place Portfolio Lead, highlighted the shifting landscape of funding

in rural areas, noting a decrease in traditional government and local business support.

“The SRC program’s fexibility and yearround availability are crucial, especially as communities transition from immediate disaster response to long-term recovery,” Karena explained. “This round we observed a notable increase in applications for community events funding and initiatives aimed at boosting local economies through tourism and other activities.”

Despite the generous grant allocations, there remains a signifcant unmet need within these communities. An

additional 85 projects were ready for funding, seeking over $900,000 which could not be met due to limited resources.

This underscores the critical role that small grants play in sustaining rural community groups and why FRRR is actively seeking new partners to expand its funding capabilities.

“Groups have expressed the importance of having access to timely and secure funding to support not just immediate needs but also medium and long-term goals,” said Ms. Karena. “These projects foster a strong sense of place and identity, and they require continuous support. We

hope to engage more collaborative funders to join us in nurturing the heart of Australia’s rural sectors.”

A complete list of the grant recipients is available on the FRRR’s website.

The SRC program is supported by a variety of donors, from private individuals to larger foundations, all listed on the FRRR’s website. Community groups and local not-for-profts are encouraged to review the program guidelines and consider applying for future rounds of funding.

More information about the SRC program can be found at www.frrr.org. au/src.

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RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

WARWICK

LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK & DISTRICT W/E 03/05/2024

Sale numbers were consistent for the cattle this week, sheep and lamb numbers doubled and the pig and poultry numbers were also higher.

The markets were frm to a shade easier for cattle, whilst sheep and lamb prices were up and the pork and poultry prices were frm.

Vealer steers av 292c/kg topping at 396.2c/kg or $647.82 to $1056.60

Vealer heifers av 255.7c/kg topping at 340c/kg or $615.08 to $1126.27

Feeder steers av 320.2c/kg topping at 360.2c/kg or $1208.38 to $1605.62

Feeder heifers av 247.9c/kg topping at 288.2c/kg or $799.44 to $1257.59

Yearling steers av 290.7c/kg topping at 376.2c/kg or $830.39 to $1620.87

Yearling heifers av 305.7c/kg topping at 364.2c/kg or $1011.80 to $1311.12

Steers av 272.6c/kg topping at 316.2c/kg or $1539.22 to $2059.47

Heifers av 228.9c/kg topping at 305.2c/kg

Cows av 183c/kg topping at 235.2c/kg or $918.49 to $1769.25

Bulls av 227.6c/kg topping at 328.2c/kg or $1005.78 to $2984.73

Lambs topped at $197 to av $118.23 up $28/head Hoggets topped at $138 to av $79.55 $11/head down Ewes topped at $94 to av $59.53 $9/head up Wethers topped at $170 to av $76.28 $33/head down Rams topped at $134 to av $80.56 $8/head down Lamb rams topped at $131 to av $85.15 $8/head up Yarding of 2072 head of Sheep & Lambs av $94.63/head a rise of $9/head .

Sows sold from $126 to $194, Pork sold from $192 to $202, Light Pork sold from $104 to $150, Stores sold from $30 to $143.

Guinea Fowl sold to $32.50, Roosters sold to $22.50, Hens sold to $27.50, Pullets to $25, Silkys sold to $25, Drakes sold to $50, Ducks sold to $47.50, Turkeys sold to $37.50, Geese sold to $37.50

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

Agents and vendors combined to present 2072 head to the weekly sale, the yarding was 80/20 break up of lamb to mutton categories. The market was stronger across the board for the stock presented. The drawings were from the Maranoa, Tara Western Downs as well as New England and local areas. Lambs topped at $197 to av $118.23 ($28 up), Hoggets topped at $138 to av $79.55($11 down), Ewes topped at $94 to av $59.53($9 up), Wethers topped at $170 to av $76.28 ($33 down), Ram lambs topped at $131 to av $85.15 ($8 up). The number of good trade and

Paul Millard sold Dorset x lambs 63.3kg to Eversons for $190

Russell & Jackie Hughes sold Suffolk lambs 60kg and 50kg to Eversons for $185 and $169

Gooroo Grazing sold Dorper lambs 53.5kg and 52.2kg to Ashtons Butchery for $183, 48.75kg to Ashtons for $179, 46.3to Leslie Lamb for $155

Haymark Inv sold 54.6kg Xbred lambs to Thomas Foods for $170

Simon Mascardri sold Dorper x lambs 66.2kg to Thomas Foods for $183

Currin Family sold Dorper x lambs 42.5kg to Mc Intyre Meats for $117, 33kg to restockers for $80, 26kg to Mc Intyre Meats for $51, Hoggets 48kg to restockers for $79, 47.6kg to MC Intyre Meats for $89 and $88, 44.5kg to Eversons for $90, 41.9kg to Mc Intyre Meats for $80, 42.5kg to Eversons for $77, Ewes to Thomas Foods for $61, to Eversons for $42 and $47.

Giltrow Family sold Dorper lambs 43.3kg to GR Prime for $125, Ram lambs 62.5kg to Take It Easy Meats for $115, 37.5kg to Gr Prime for $67, Hoggets 57kg to Eversons for $76, Ewes to Eversons for $86, Rams to restockers for $138 and $100

Lloyd & Desley Mauch sold 64kg Dorset lambs to Take IT Easy Meats for $197,97kg wethers to Self Meats for $170, rams to restockers for $100 and Whites Trading for $6

export types were limited with a larger proportion of the lambs in the light feed on types.

AIHW Report Highlights Urgent Need for Enhanced Healthcare Investment in Rural Areas

Today, a new release from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) has highlighted signifcant health disparities between residents in very remote areas and those in major cities.

According to the AIHW’s latest fndings, hospitalization rates in extremely remote locations are nearly double those in urban centres, and access to General Practitioners is notably lower in remote communities.

Nicole O’Reilly, Chairperson of the National Rural Health Alliance, expressed concern over these fndings, emphasizing the necessity for targeted investments to bridge these gaps. “Such appalling disparities should be rectifed with targeted investment and innovative approaches.

Your postcode should not determine your access to healthcare,” said O’Reilly. The AIHW utilized data from the 2022 Australian Bureau of Statistics National Health Survey to conduct its analysis, revealing prevalent health risks such as alcohol and smoking, along with high incidences of arthritis, mental health issues,

and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in rural areas. These factors contribute signifcantly to the healthcare strain on these communities.

O’Reilly advocated for the implementation of high-quality, culturally sensitive primary healthcare in rural regions, particularly to address prevention and management of health and behavioural risk factors and chronic

conditions. “This would signifcantly reduce the reliance on the acute hospital sector and rectify enduring disparities in health outcomes,” she added. Further exacerbating the issue, AIHW data shows a stark contrast in lifestyle risks between rural and urban populations. In outer regional and remote areas, 17.5% of the population smokes,

compared to 9.3% in major cities, and 32.7% exceed lifetime alcohol risk guidelines. Additionally, the obesity rate is alarmingly high, with 69.6% of people in these regions being overweight or obese. Highlighting the fnancial discrepancies, O’Reilly pointed out that the annual health underspend in rural Australian areas amounts to $6.55 billion, which translates to approximately $850 less spent on health per person each year compared to urban areas. “It shows that our rural communities are treated as second-class citizens when it comes to healthcare,” she remarked.

To address these challenges, the Alliance is advocating for the implementation of place-based models

of care that cater specifcally to local needs. One proposed solution is the Primary care Rural Integrated Multidisciplinary Health Services (PRIM-HS), designed to effectively serve rural communities. Additionally, O’Reilly calls for the establishment of a National Rural Health Strategy to unify state and federal rural health priorities and strategies, aiming to drive sustainable improvements in rural health outcomes over time.

These strategic measures are crucial in ensuring that rural residents receive equitable healthcare services, refecting a commitment to overcoming longstanding disparities in Australia’s healthcare system.

Community Plea: Queenslanders Rally for Mossman Mill’s Survival Amid Financial Crisis

In a signifcant demonstration of solidarity, thousands of residents from Queensland have rallied behind the imperilled sugar industry of Mossman, urging the State Government to intervene and ensure the continuity of the local sugar mill. This initiative is crucial for sustaining economic stability and fostering future community investments. Launched on April

12, a parliamentary e-petition advocating for the government to allocate additional time for Mossman’s transition to sustainable practices has swiftly amassed close to 5,000 signatures. The petition highlights the dire consequences of inaction which include the potential collapse of the agricultural sector, adverse environmental impacts, job losses, and a spike in welfare dependency.

The crisis intensifed last month when Mossman Mill, the principal employer in the region and a cornerstone of the local economy for over a century, entered liquidation. This development threatens not only one-third of the town’s employment but also places numerous local businesses at risk of uncertainty.

The local cane growers, who have collectively invested over $15 million

in this year’s crop, fnd themselves on the brink of fnancial disaster.

Matt Watson, Chairman of CANEGROWERS Mossman, emphasized the critical need for governmental support to harvest this year’s crop, which would mitigate fnancial losses for growers and inject millions into the local economy. This assistance is seen as essential for

providing the community and businesses time to strategize their future moves.

“The grim outlook for Mossman is a concern for all; our request is not merely for a temporary subsidy but a strategic investment in the region’s longterm viability,” stated Watson. He also pointed out the broad base of support this issue has

among Queenslanders, suggesting a unifed desire across the state to aid Mossman in this challenging time. Residents and supporters can express their support by signing the e-petition, which remains open until Sunday and is accessible via the provided link. https:// bit.ly/3xunfLZ

AgCAREERSTART Program Sees Record Participation as It Navigates Uncertain Funding Future

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) celebrates a new milestone with its AgCAREERSTART gap-year program, hosting 80 participants for 2024, demonstrating an impressive 83% retention rate of graduates continuing in the agriculture industry. Despite this success, the program’s future hangs in balance as funding beyond 2025 remains unconfrmed, prompting the NFF to seek commitment from the Federal Government in the upcoming May Budget.

On-the-Ground Impact

Daniel Gierek and Duke Richardson, two Sydney-siders and friends, embarked on their gap year not expecting to fall in love with agricultural life. After discovering AgCAREERSTART at the Western Sydney Careers Expo, they found themselves working together on a macadamia farm near Maryborough, QLD. “I’ve loved every second

of it,” said Daniel, noting his adaptation to farm life and the welcoming community.

Duke shared similar sentiments, stating, “AgCAREERSTART caught my eye because it looked like it would open more doors, with networking and education opportunities.”

Both participants have embraced the farming lifestyle and are considering how this experience might shape their future career paths.

A Host Farmer’s

Insight Sam Heagney, a Mungindi farmer and three-year veteran host of the program, refects positively on his experiences with AgCAREERSTART participants. “It’s been great for us as a gateway to welcoming more young people into our business,” Heagney said. He appreciates the fresh perspectives and energy young participants bring, even as they navigate the steep learning curve of farm work.

Growing Success and Uncertain Future

Since its inception, AgCAREERSTART has seen 180 young Australians take up posts on farms across the country, with participants benefting from hands-on agricultural experience. The program has grown from placing 30 participants in its pilot year in 2022 to 80 in 2024. However, the NFF is now advocating for sustained funding to ensure the program can continue its success.

Tony Mahar, CEO of the National Farmers’ Federation, emphasized the importance of the program: “We know there is a demand to bring future farmers into the industry and the program’s success rate speaks for itself. What we really need now is for the Federal Government to commit to further funding in the budget to provide certainty and ensure the program’s future.”

Opportunities Ahead

For Daniel and Duke,

the program has not only been a gateway to new experiences but also a catalyst for reevaluating their career aspirations. Both are keen to maximize their AgCAREERSTART bursary by engaging in further training and attending industry events, broadening their understanding of the sector.

Applications for the 2025 AgCAREERSTART program will open from 22 July to 29 September 2024. Host farmers are encouraged to apply now to become part of this enriching initiative. For more information, visit agcareerstart.com. au or engage with the AgCAREERSTART team at the upcoming Beef Week from May 7-11.

2024 AgCAREERSTART participants Daniel Gierek (left) and Duke Richardson at FutureAG encapsulate the vibrant new face of agriculture, poised to possibly defne its future.

Nominations Open for the 2024 Australian Biosecurity Awards

Australia is now calling for nominations for the prestigious 2024 Australian Biosecurity Awards, an annual event that celebrates outstanding contributions to the safeguarding of the nation’s biosecurity. The awards recognize individuals, groups, and organizations committed to enhancing Australia’s biosecurity systems, ensuring the protection of over $90 billion in agricultural production and $5.7 trillion in unique environmental assets.

Categories and Innovation in Biosecurity

This year, the awards feature nine diverse categories, including the newly introduced First Nations Award for Excellence in Biosecurity. This

addition aims to honour Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander contributors who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to biosecurity, going beyond their usual responsibilities to protect the land and people from pests, weeds, and diseases.

Justine Saunders APM, Deputy Secretary for Biosecurity and Compliance, emphasized the critical role of biosecurity in Australia.

“Our biosecurity system is fundamental in protecting our nation from exotic pests and diseases,” Saunders remarked. “It’s vital to

acknowledge those who contribute signifcantly to this system, ensuring our environmental and agricultural assets remain secure.”

Previous Winners and Achievements

Past recipients of the Australian Biosecurity Awards have included specialists who have

successfully kept invasive species like the khapra beetle and brown marmorated stink bug out of Australia. Other winners have led efforts to manage prevalent pests and diseases, tackling challenges like rabbit infestations, myrtle rust, and feral pigs on Kangaroo Island.

Nomination Process

Nominations are open to anyone with an interest in biosecurity, providing an opportunity to recognize the efforts and impacts of those committed to this crucial sector. The awards aim to spotlight the varied and extensive work being done across the country to maintain Australia’s biosecurity integrity.

The 2024 award categories include:

• Dr. David Banks Biosecurity Lifetime

Achievement Award

• Dr. Kim Ritman Award for Science and Innovation

• Industry

• Government

• Environmental Biosecurity

• Community

• Education

• Farm Biosecurity

Producer of The Year — jointly presented with Animal Health Australia and Plant Health Australia

• First Nations Award for Excellence in Biosecurity

For more information on the awards and details on how to submit a nomination, visit Australian Biosecurity Awards Nomination Page. Nominations will close at 9am on 10 June 2024.

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

ITS FAMILY GAME NIGHT!

A classic game night is the epitome of a cosy evening spent indoors, flled with laughter and friendly competition. Whether you’re looking to refresh your game cupboard or considering board games as thoughtful gifts, exploring the right options can enhance these lively gatherings.

THE GAME OF LIFE College, marriage, kids, insurance! In the Game of Life, each player navigates through various life stages using a plastic car on the game board, from choosing a college to settling into retirement.

The goal of the game is to traverse life by making wise decisions, aiming to retire frst and with the most wealth. It’s

an excellent game for teaching children about life’s lessons in a fun and accessible manner.

Product Details:

• Number of Players: Two to four

• Recommended Age: 8 and up

• Playing Time: 30 to 60 minutes

MONOPOLY

This board game involves both risk and chance as players purchase and trade properties while trying to avoid jail.

Players can buy properties if they have

the necessary funds and can generate income by charging rent to other players who land on their properties. The objective of the game is to bankrupt your opponents, which can be a lengthy process. The strategy is to acquire enough properties in the same area to create a monopoly, making it diffcult for other players to afford rent, ultimately leading to their bankruptcy.

Product Details:

• Number of Players: Two to six

• Recommended Age: 8 and up

• Playing Time: One to two hours

CARDS AGAINST HUMANITY

When playing Cards Against Humanity, forget about maintaining decorum. The game features black cards with open-ended prompts and white cards flled with a mix of humorous, risqué, and bizarre phrases. In each round, a player takes on the role of the judge and selects a black card to present to the group. The other players

then choose one of their white cards that best complements the prompt and hand it to the judge. The judge mixes these submissions and reads them aloud, ultimately picking a favourite based on their appeal. This game is strictly for adults, designed to provoke laughter.

Product Details:

• Number of Players: Four to 20

• Recommended Age: 18 and up

• Playing Time: 30 to 90 minutes UNO

To play this engaging family game, all you need is an Uno card deck.

The Uno deck consists of 108 cards, with 25 cards in each of four colours and eight special action cards, such as Skip and Reverse.

Players match cards from their hands to the card in the centre of the game by colour or number. They draw new cards from the deck until none remain. When a player is down to one card, they shout “Uno!”—a highlight of the game.

Product Details:

• Number of Players: Two to 10

• Recommended Age: 7 and up

• Playing Time: 30 minutes or less

The Game of Life Monopoly UNO

Cards Against Humanity

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

followed by addition and/or subtraction, in whichever order they appear.

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 The name of which country means ‘Land of the Pure’ in Urdu and Persian?

(a) Pakistan (b) Iraq (c) Bangladesh (d) Iran

2 In mathematics, the imaginary unit is denoted and commonly referred to as what?

(a) i (b) z (c) v (d) y

3 Minjee Lee is best known for her involvement in which sport?

(a) Cricket (b) Tennis (c) Basketball (d) Golf

4 Who starred as J. Robert Oppenheimer in the 2023 movie, Oppenheimer? (a) Kenneth Branagh (b) Robert Downey Jr (c) Matt Damon (d) Cillian Murphy

5 The Amalfi Coast is a popular tourist attraction in which country?

(a) Italy (b) Greece (c) Turkey (d) Egypt

6 In 2023, who won the Logie Award for Most Popular Actress?

(a) Ada Nicodemou (b) Kitty Flanagan (c) Celeste Barber (d) Julia Zemiro

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 AUTOLOGY

(a) Scientific study of oneself

(b) Self-sufficiency

(c) Absolute government by one man

2 COCCYX

(a) A one-seeded portion of a dry fruit that breaks up

(b) The terminal triangular bone of the vertebral column

(c) A fabulous monster

3 AURIC

(a) Of the organs of hearing

(b) Harsh in manner

(c) Of or containing gold

4 EVANESCE

(a) To determine the value of (b) To make smooth (c) To fade away

5 RUNKLE

(a) A little brook

(b) The smallest pig of a litter

(c) A wrinkle or crease

ALFAKODO

Letters A to Z have a number value Some are shown

FRIDAY

GARDENING AUSTRALIA

ABC, 7.30pm

You probably never entertained the idea of this unusual water feature in your backyard, but after tonight you won’t be able get the thought out of your mind. Forget a waterfall or a fountain: Hannah Moloney (pictured) marries cute amphibians with serene design when she creates a pond designed to happily house frogs. There’s also not one but two exciting garden tours: one awash with autumnal fancy and the other a sustainable revelation. Josh Byrne shares his crop rotation tips and, if you dream of cultivating tomatoes with abandon in the middle of winter, nd out if grow lights might be the ticket with Tammy Huynh as she investigates this popular gardening accessory.

FRIDAY, May 10

SUNDAY

LOUIS THEROUX INTERVIEWS...

ABC TV PLUS, 8.30pm

Documentarian Louis Theroux (pictured) exudes a charming and e ective naivety with his disarmingly laid-back interview style, nimbly unravelling his subjects’ essence. From paedophiles to religious extremists, the child medication epidemic and Vegas gamblers, the Brit has made a name for himself by tackling challenging subjects. In this second season, Theroux treks through mental health and political wounds, chinwagging with celebrities who “are all distinctive and brilliant in di erent ways”. Kicking o with boxer Anthony Joshua, this sixepisode series also features Dame Joan Collins, Chelsea Manning and Pete Doherty.

TUESDAY CREATIVE TYPES WITH VIRGINIA TRIOLI

ABC, 9pm

This intriguing and therapeutic ection on the creative mind, unwrapping and exploring how some of

Australia’s most recognised creators tap into their artistic instincts, goes out with a bang tonight, featuring thought-provoking artist Patricia Piccinini (pictured above left with host Virginia Trioli). The Melbourne-based but world-renowned visual artist is famous for her sculptures of disturbingly beautiful and grotesque human-like forms that challenge our ideas of what it is to be alive in a technology-obsessed world. In this captivating conversation with Trioli, Piccinini shares her thoughts on why she’s compelled to “create the worlds” that blossom in her mind.

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

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 That Paci c Sports Show. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Malv, R) 2.00 Queen Of Oz. (Ml, R) 2.30 White Fever. (Mls, R) 2.55 Ningaloo Nyinggulu. (R) 3.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.40 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.20 WorldWatch. 10.05 Peer To Peer. (PGa, R) 10.35 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. (PG, R) 11.25 The Lost World Of Joseph Banks. (Ma, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.35 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.05 Jeopardy! (R) 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 6. H’lights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Fatal Flatline. (2020, Mav, R) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PGa) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Hannah Moloney installs a frog pond.

8.30 Silent Witness. (Ma) An abandoned truck containing multiple dead bodies exposes a shocking human tra cking case.

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

10.00 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (Final, R) With guests Concetta Caristo and Dave Hughes.

10.35 White Fever. (Mls, R)

11.00 ABC Late News.

11.20 Grand Designs: Liskeard, Cornwall. (PG, R)

12.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)

12.55 Traces. (Madls, R)

1.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Eurovision Song Contest Semi-Final. (R) From Malmö, Sweden. 10.00 ABBA In Concert. (R) Coverage of performances by ABBA. 11.05 SBS World News Late.

11.35 L’Opera. (Mal, R) Flora vies to represent the Opera in Bulgaria.

3.20 World’s Most Luxurious Holidays. (R) 4.15 Luke Nguyen’s Railway Vietnam. (PG, R) 4.45 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch. 12.25 Story Of Late Night. 1.10 Criminal Planet. 2.05 The Swiping

2.30

5.25

Of

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs meets a mother-daughter team who have turned their love of food into a thriving business.

8.30 Football. AFL. Round 9. Fremantle v Sydney. From Optus Stadium, Perth. 11.30 Armchair Experts. (M) A panel discusses all things AFL.

12.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

12.45 Celebrity Obsessed: John Lennon. (Mav, R) Examines the case of Mark David Chapman.

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve. 5.00 NBC Today.

7TWO (62) VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 6.50 Kiri And Lou. 6.55 Supertato. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 MOVIE: Widows. (2018, MA15+) 10.35 MOVIE: Veronica Mars. (2014, PG) 12.25am Would I Lie To You? 1.25 QI. 1.55 ABC News Update. 2.00 Close. 5.00 Hoopla. 5.15 Ready, Jet, Go! 5.25 Alva’s World. 5.40 Late Programs. ABC TV PLUS (22)

5.55

6.45 Jeopardy! 7.40 8

8.35

Eats The 80s. 8.55 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 7. 1.35am QAnon: The Search For Q. 2.25 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30

Of

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Romance At The Vineyard. (2023, G) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 10. Parramatta Eels v Brisbane Broncos.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Parramatta Eels versus Brisbane Broncos match, with NRL news and analysis.

10.40 MOVIE: The Foreigner. (2017, MA15+alv, R) A businessman seeks justice. Jackie Chan, Katie Leung.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R) Hosted by Ben Shephard.

1.35 Pointless. (PG, R)

2.30 Destination WA.

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Postcards. (PG, R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

9GO! (83) 6am Brideshead Revisited. Continued. (2008, PG) 8.15 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 10.00 L.A. Story. (1991, M) 11.50 Man Of The Year. (2006, M) 2pm Princess Caraboo. (1994, PG) 3.50 Lola. (1961, PG, French) 5.25 55 Steps. (2017, PG) 7.30 The Young Victoria. (2009, PG) 9.30 Queen Of Hearts. (2019, MA15+, Swedish) 11.50 Our Kind Of Traitor. (2016, MA15+) 1.50am Violet & Daisy. (2011, MA15+) 3.25 A Piece Of My Heart. (2019, M, Swedish) 5.30 The Movie Show.

Best Buys. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Building Giants. 4.30 Storage Wars. 5.00 American Restoration. 5.30 American Pickers: Best Of. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 MOVIE: This Means War. (2012, M) 9.30 MOVIE: Air America. (1990, M) 11.50 Late Programs.

6am Children’s Programs. Noon Manifest. 2.00 Bewitched. 2.30 Full House. 3.00 The Nanny. 3.30 Raymond. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 MOVIE: The LEGO Ninjago Movie. (2017, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Toy Story 2. (1999) 9.30 MOVIE: Wonder. (2017, PG) 11.50 Dating No Filter. 12.20am Love Island UK. 2.30 Manifest. 3.30 Beyblade Burst: Quad Drive. 4.00

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Ready Steady Cook. Two teams led by celebrity chefs Adriano Zumbo and Anna Polyviou go head to head in the kitchen.

8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (PGls, R) Compilation of highlights from the series featuring Taylor Swift, Daniel Craig, Eddie Redmayne, Lashana Lynch, Bono, Kate Hudson, Sir Ian McKellen, Colin Farrell, Bruce Springsteen and many more. 10.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather.

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

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

2024 CASINO BEEF WEEK

Supporting Beef Week 2024

Richmond Valley Council has been a proud supporter of Casino Beef Week for more than 40 years: one of the Richmond Valley’s signature events.

64 Asperys Road, Ettrick NSW 2474 59 Pennefather Close, Yorklea NSW 2470

Sprawling Heritage style home on 24 acres with a North Easterly Aspect, Glorious far reaching views, 4 bedrooms, Formal and informal living areas, Tassie Oak kitchen, Patio with ideal aspect, Double lock up garage, 4 bay car shed 12 x 7.3m with adjoining 5.8 x 7.3m studio with bathroom and kitchenette, 24 acres enhanced by a seasonal creek, mostly new boundary fencing, 15 minutes to Kyogle. Reduced to sell.

Grand Entertainment on 5 acres, Modern country charm, 2 seperate outdoor entertaining areas, both complete with built in BBQ’s, Your very own bar, 6000Ltr 8-person swim spa, Gourmet kitchen featuring a 900mm SS oven, 360-degree wrap-around verandah, 4 bedroom, Seperate study, Media room, Master suite with ensuite and walk in robe, 90,000 litres of water storage + Dam, 110 meter par 3 golf hole, 25 minutes from Lismore, 5 Minutes to Casino. www.realo.tv.com.au

CASINO BEEF WEEK

2024 Iconic Escorted Group Tours

22 DAY ULTIMATE SCANINAIA & ICELAND DEPARTING 19 OCTOBER 2024

$13,720 pp Twin Share $1,600 Single Supplement

This 22-day tour of Scandinavia and Iceland will have you snapping photos at all the scenic spots. Visit Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Estonia . Travel in comfort with everything taken care of! Price includes:

• Q uality hotel accommodation throughout

• English speaking guides throughout

• Breakfast daily and 5 Dinners

• International & domestic economy flights

• All sightseeing, train & ferry tickets and entry fees per itinerary

• Private Northern Lights search tour & Flam Railway

• Return transport to/from home to airport in Northern Rivers

12 DAY NEW ZEALAND SOUTH ISLAND TOUR DEPARTING 19 NOVEMBER 2024

$7,850 pp Twin Share $1,650 Single Supplement

Join us on this unique 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.

Price includes:

• Return transport to/from home to airport in Northern Rivers

• Return airfares from Gold Coast including taxes

• 11 Nights quality accommodation with breakfast daily

• 7 dinners Incl. TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Walter Peak Evening Dining

• TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Greymouth

• All sightseeing and entry fees per itinerary

BEEF WEEK HISTORY

RETRO REWIND

THE 2024 QUEENS AND AMBASSADORS

Mainmark Ground Engineering Pty Ltd. NSW Building Licence No. 288848C

Alahna Thomson Annaleise Barrett

Carlee Crowley

Claira Lee-Joe

Ellie Brettner

Reny Dooley

Georgie Keep

Zanthie Bailey

Ambassadors

PREVIOUS BEEF WEEK QUEENS

BREENS CASINO

Are you looking for a career change or a new employment opportunity? Would you like to make a positive difference in the lives of people living in the Northern Rivers?

Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT) is a leading not-for-profit aged care provider that has been caring about people for more than 50 years. We deliver personalised, quality care and support services across our network of Residential Care Homes, Retirement Villages and Home Care services.

If you’re a Registered Nurse, we’d love to hear from you!

• $20,000* sign on bonus

• Over $18,550* tax-free benefits

• Flexibility for your lifestyle

• Training and development

• Earn while you study

• Career progression

• Relocation assistance

• Reward and recognition program and much more …

FREE service offers Farmers and Fishers so much than grant support

The Rural Financial Counselling Service wants to show their support for Beef Week’s celebration of farming to remind producers they can open the gate to proftable and sustainable long-term success.

As farmers across NSW are feeling the sting from a combination of disaster impacts, rising on farm costs, bio security risks, high debt and interest rates plus ongoing cost of living pressures, the Rural Financial Counselling Service Northern Region is reminding local communities, help is at hand from our dedicated local team.

“The perfect time to review your operations, get a good grip on your numbers and put a plan of action in place is now - our team are specialists, we are here and we are ready to assist,” says RFCSNR’s Northern Rivers RFC’s Sam Green, Cindy Prowse and Katrina McDougall.

From Flood to Drought and beyond Producers needing support with recovery from the previous years of bushfres, fooding

and drought conditions may already be familiar with the service for accessing much needed grant support but that is only a small slice of what RFCSNR can bring to a farm enterprise.

“Side by side recovery and getting prepared for the future is absolutely possible! You don’t know what you don’t know and that’s the purpose of Rural Financial Counsellors – we are experienced in the unique need of famers and work with clients to build skills, knowledge and empower them to be fnancially and personally capable. Together we create a roadmap to not just survive but fourish through the many challenges a life on the land brings.” RFCSNR a unique model of support Rural Financial

Counsellors work one on one holistically with farmers over time. This unique approach builds fnancial and personal resilience by delivering:

• practical and meaningful analysis of their farm business

• understanding and fnancial literacy skills

• risk reduction and business preparedness planning

• presentation and explanation of alternative business options

• debt mediation and advocacy.

The Rural Financial Counselling Service

NSW Northern Region provides free confdential and impartial support to primary producers at risk of or experiencing fnancial hardship and is funded by both the Australian and NSW Governments.

Advertorial

2024 BEEF WEEK SCHEDULE

2024 CASINO BEEF

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

C I P

N M O

A N O Today’s target: 8 words average 10 words good 12+ words excellent

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

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Auspac Media

Have you been shopping up a storm when you should have been saving or paying off debt?

Expect a financial hiccup as the Sun, New Moon, Venus, Jupiter and Uranus highlight money matters (and also bring up issues involving your personal values and self-esteem). You’ll find the less you base your core self-worth on money, status, image, physical appearance and unrealistic media expectations of what beauty is, the happier and healthier you’ll be.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

It’s time for Bulls to bewitch and bewilder! With the Sun, New Moon, Venus, Jupiter and Uranus all lighting up your sign, your positive and negative Taurean traits are boosted this week. So expect to be more sensual, stable, patient and dependable … and more possessive, pedantic, slow-moving and stubborn! Your motto for the moment is from iconic Taurus actress (and birthday great) Katharine Hepburn: “My greatest strength is common sense.”

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

Communicating with others becomes complicated and nuanced, as the New Moon urges you to dig beneath the surface and get to the bottom of an old emotional issue. You’re also keen to assist someone in need but resist the urge to indulge in gratuitous gossip. Courtesy of the Sun/Saturn link, Tuesday favours being as disciplined and organised as you possibly can, especially at work. Whereas Wednesday is all about escaping through the power of your imagination.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Venus, Jupiter, Uranus and the New Moon activate your hopes-dreams-and-wishes zone, so divert your attention away from current problems and draw up a wish-list for the rest of 2024. Don’t waste the opportunity to escape into your imagination, set intentions and dream ambitious dreams for the future. The Sun and Saturn stimulate your travel and education zones, so it’s important to keep in touch with school mates, college friends and/or international contacts.

Your career is about to get a welcome shot in the arm as Venus, Jupiter, Uranus and the New Moon all barnstorm through your work zone. So it’s time to show your boss, colleagues and competitors what you are truly capable of. With an extra boost from the Sun/Saturn link, it’s definitely time to be brave, bold, organised and businesslike. Draw inspiration from Hollywood movie star (and birthday great) Katharine Hepburn: “Without discipline, there’s no life at all.”

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Most Virgos have very high expectations. On Tuesday the Sun connects with Saturn, which will amplify your perfectionist streak. Which could lead to unwanted stress when you have to deal with New Moon changes, unfamiliar situations and/or updated information. You’ll discover that perfection is hard to find! So your motto for the week is from Spanish painter (and birthday great) Salvador Dali: “Have no fear of perfection … you’ll never reach it.”

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22) Prosperity planets Venus and Jupiter (plus Uranus and the New Moon) are transiting through your ‘money-from-others zone’. So some lucky Librans will benefit from an inheritance, gift, bonus, divorce settlement, insurance claim, bumper tax return or superannuation payout. Make sure you spend any windfall wisely, with a view to future financial security. Mars and Mercury are in your relationship zone, so be proactive about communicating with others.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

The Sun, New Moon, Venus, Jupiter and Uranus are all transiting through your partnership zone. So, when it comes to relationships (of the romantic and platonic variety), expect the unexpected! But avoid being a stubborn Scorpio. Instead, loosen up, go with the intuitive flow, and keep your negative thoughts to yourself. As Joni Mitchell (a fellow Scorpio) observes: “There are things to confess that enrich the world, and things that need not be said.”

Sagittarians can be very scattered, but this week the Sun, New Moon, Venus, Jupiter (your power planet) and Uranus are all transiting through the earthy, steady sign of Taurus. So you will feel more grounded, focused and settled than usual. The mid-week New Moon also suggests a fresh start involving work or health as you commence a new job, devise a more nutritious diet, or reboot your fitness routine. Tuesday is terrific for work matters and family functions.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

The Sun makes a positive connection with your ruler Saturn, so concentration is high, your attention to detail is even better than usual, and any work you do will be of an extremely high standard. Coupled Capricorn – it’s a wonderful week to work on deepening the love and commitment between the two of you. If you are looking for lasting love, don’t accept second best. Be discriminating, as you patiently wait for the right person to come along.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) With the Sun, New Moon, Venus, Jupiter and your ruler Uranus visiting your domestic zone, Home Sweet Home is the place to be this week. Expect a fresh start involving a relative, a renovation or DIY project, a new home or an additional family member. Or perhaps you’ll receive some surprising news about a pregnancy, engagement, marriage or divorce! A financial matter looks solid, as long as you’ve done your homework and got a second opinion.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Have you been pandering to other people, Pisces? The Sun and Saturn encourage you to stand strong and make decisions that suit you. A current situation (or problem) has more flexible options than you previously thought. Past mistakes can be fixed, contracts can be cancelled, and agreements can be broken. Your motto is from birthday great, singer and activist Bono: “The world is more malleable than you think, and it’s waiting for you to hammer it into shape.”

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

FLOTSAM FESTIVAL LAUNCHES FOR 2024: 12 DAYS OF GOLD COAST FILM AND PHOTO

Flotsam Festival 2024 has offcially dropped in on the Gold Coast, marking 12 days of celebration of surf culture, art, and creativity.

The multi-trail surf flm and photography celebration will feature dozens of dynamic events and exhibitions that stretch along the shores of the southern Gold Coast, indoor and outdoor spaces, venues and businesses from May 1 to May 12.

The 2024 edition will deliver several new initiatives and welcome works by a wave of international stars as events roll along the coastline through Coolangatta, Kirra, Tugun, Currumbin, Palm Beach, and Burleigh.

From new and iconic flm screenings, unique

exhibitions, photography showcases, live music and performances, to thought-provoking forums and educational workshops, attendees can expect a diverse array of free or low-cost activities that showcase the unique essence of the Gold Coast surf culture.

Multiple flm and photography competitions launched in the festival leadup, along with two major interactive and free community photography initiatives, Now + Then and Flotsam Ripples.

Coolangatta’s iconic The Pink Hotel will have its fenceline wrapped in images for Flotsam’s Now + Then, a site takeover showcasing a photographic journey through time via images

from local past and present shown across the eras, with additional images accessible by QR code.

Curated by legendary lensman Ted Grambeau, Flotsam International Masters of Surf exhibition will feature arguably the largest group of leading surf photographers ever assembled into one exhibition.

With more than 40 of the world-best surf photographers contributing, this exhibition will launch at a landmark opening at Kirra Beach House on May 3, 1-5pm.

Sharing tales behind the images, guest panellists will include surf flmmaker Taylor Steele joining Ted to recount their adventures shooting Mick Fanning

biopic ‘Missing’ Attendees will also enjoy roaming canapes and sunset sips by presenting partners Solento Organic Tequila.

The Kirra Hill Community & Culture Centre will also be home to the Australian Surf Photo of the Year Exhibition from 1-12 May and the Flotsam Media + Makers forum May 11.

Hosted by awardwinning author and journalist Tim Baker, the free Media + Makers forum will host informative panels on topics ranging from the art of book making, to how to make a living as a freelancer.

HOTA, Home of the Arts will showcase the Occumentary 25th Anniversary Screening with surf flmmaker

Jack McCoy. The multi award-winning flm showcase will be the frst time the flm has been shown in cinemas on the big screen.

Seminal surf flmmakers George Greenough and Andrew Kidman will also have work featured in showcase events during the festival, bringing with them a host of special guests and - in the case of Kidman - live music scores to classic flms.

Flotsam Festival was created to foster and spotlight individual artists, creators and talent, amplify the fourishing arts and cultural industry, and serve as a place of community connection.

“Entering year three, the Flotsam lineup is set to deliver one of the largest ocean-inspired arts festivals of its kind. The calibre of international talent from across the eras joining us will ensure this year’s exhibitions and flm events are truly world class,” said FLOTSAM Festival Director, Carolyn Emge.

Highlighting the vibrant spirit of surf culture and artistic expression through ocean-inspired flm and photographic arts, with an extensive calendar of events, the festival aims to captivate audiences of all interests. Flotsam Festival is presented by Flotsam Arts Inc and proudly supported by the festival’s foundation partners, the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Experience Gold Coast.

LAB LEAKED BEATS MURWILLUMBAH

Lab Leaked Beats Murwillumbah is excited to announce our May line-up. We’re blessed to have such talent to share with you! We welcome to the stage:

• CORQI

• AFRODITE

• JIMMY D

• EMMET ORBIT

We gather at M-Arts

Precinct Murwillumbah. Think groovy warehouse meets artist hub. Classy industrial vibes with high ceilings and a bar that has favours of Melbourne. Super friendly staff offering us cocktails, beers, wine & spirits all night long. We’re joined by live artists and performers! Think festival vibes!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: 18th of May

• Time: 6pm - 12am

• Cost: $25 - $35 + BF

• Tickets: See QR code

Photo credit - Tony Harrington

Photo credit - Trent Mitchell

Australia Welcomes First Llamas in Over a Decade, Enhancing Local Gene Pool

Australia’s llama community is set to receive a signifcant boost with the arrival of fve llamas at the Mickleham Post Entry Quarantine facility, marking the frst such arrival in the country in over ten years. The only centre in Australia equipped to house camelids, Mickleham’s facility has been bustling with activity as biosecurity staff work to ensure these new residents adapt comfortably to their new environment.

Justine Saunders, Deputy Secretary of Biosecurity and Compliance at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, expressed her enthusiasm about the new additions. “This is an exciting development

for Australia’s budding llama population, made possible by our robust animal biosecurity system,” stated Ms. Saunders. She emphasized the importance of Australia’s rigorous protocols in maintaining the safety and sustainability of the country’s diverse biodiversity.

Jane Ackland of Everlong Llamas, the importer responsible for these new residents, highlighted the signifcance of this importation for genetic diversity within Australia’s llama breeding programs.

“After a signifcant search, I selected these animals for their quality and genetic diversity,” she explained, noting that the last import of llamas from

the USA was in the mid-1990s. “They will bring a unique and transformative change to my breeding program here in Wamboin, NSW.”

The llamas’ journey from a cold Chicago winter to a warm Australian summer was not only long but marked by careful monitoring and testing to ensure their health and safety.

“Despite over 24 hours in transit, the llamas arrived lively and energetic,” Ms. Saunders remarked. Observations of their behaviour indicated that they adjusted well, engaging with their surroundings and displaying playful behaviour.

During their stay at the quarantine facility, the llamas underwent a series of health checks including blood

tests for diseases like bluetongue virus, epizootic haemorrhagic disease, and brucellosis. Further testing followed two weeks post-arrival to confrm their health status before they were cleared by biosecurity, following negative test results and a fnal health inspection.

This import marks a signifcant milestone for Australia’s agricultural biodiversity, ensuring the continued vitality and expansion of the local llama population.

Each year, Australia’s biosecurity measures facilitate the safe arrival of a wide array of animals, contributing signifcantly to the country’s rich ecological and agricultural landscape.

By Helen Trustum

The following story was written by Robert Leycester Dawson, son of Robert Barrington Dawson owner of Bentley Station, situated at Bentley. Robert was born in Bowenfels near Lithgow in 1860 and died in 1943 in Lindfeld, Upper North Shore of Sydney.

My father, Robert Barrington Dawson, in the year of 1869, on an offcial visit to the Richmond as Crown Lands Commissioner, rode one day from Casino to Lismore, with Mr C. H. Fawcett, then a Police Magistrate. Between the townships

and about 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) from Casino, they turned a short distance off the road to the left and from the ridge (later Armstrongs paddock) obtained a fne view of “The Double Huts Plain” and adjacent beautiful country. My father was astonished when told by his friend that this rich and productive looking land was only held on lease from the Crown by the Runnymede cattle station and therefore still open for free selection. At once he made up his mind to become the owner and there to build his future home. Accordingly in March 1870, he went from

Bellevue, our then home near Grafton to Casino, made a closer inspection of the “Land of Promise” at “Double Huts” and free-selected three 40, 48 and 49 acre blocks thus securing the lagoon and the wooded ridge upon which the future home was to be built. Returning to the Clarence, at the end of April 1870 we left Bellevue for the Richmond, Via Gordon Brook and Camira, our furniture and effects being was sent by horse drays by the usual direct route via The Traveller’s Rest and Myrtle Creek. At Gordon Brook, my mother and I stayed a month with Mr and Mrs

Hawkins Smith and her brother and sister, Anson and Miss Alice Rothery. My father and my brother Arthur David, rode across to Casino, visited the “Double Huts” and Arthur then became a free-selector by taking up a 50 acre block adjoining those already secured by father, I think Arthur’s block took in part of the Horse-shoe Flat and Red Ridge. They returned to Gordon Brook. Nearing the end of May and we then set out for Casino, my father driving the old roan mare and Polly, tandem, in the buggy while I rode Puck and Arthur on his bay pony

We stayed the frst night at the ten-mile outstation (from Gordon Brook 10 miles) /16 kilometers James Saville family (afterwards our neighbours at One Tree Farm). Next night at Camira and next at Myrtle Creek in Ben Sellers accommodation house and the fourth evening we reached Casino. Travelling was slow owing to the rough bush tracks and only here and there was it possible to trot the buggy horses.

At Casino we stayed nearly six months in a cottage close to Britton’s Hotel. Later the cottage housed the frst newspaper,

The “Richmond River Express and Tweed Advertiser”. Arthur and I attended the public school under Mr Peter Walsh.

Late in June we were all invited to spend a week with the Garrard Family at Boorie. We went on horseback as the awful boggy road was quite impassable for vehicles. The horses could hardly struggle through the fearful bogholes at other creeks and gullies. We took our lunch and had it at Bentley which had just been named after my father’s birthplace (Great Bentley Lodge) at Essex in England. The blocks and

Thomas

Spider.

Looking down from Homestead site to lagoon.

Inside Naughtons Gap tunnel.

Naughtons Gap tunnel.

Tim Ryan and his mother standing on the Bentley Railway Siding on enlistment Day.

By Helen Trustum

bloodwood sleepers for the house were in position and four men were at work.

The remains of Ward Stephens (original owner of Runnymede Station) two shepherd’s huts built during the early forties, were still visible about 20 yards from the west end front of the big house. My father planted his banana ground on the site of Stephen’s sheep yard and for over 20 years a plentiful supply of fruit was the result.

Just before Christmas 1870 my mother was fnding herself very sick and tired of Casino and the life in a poky cottage overlooking the Inn. My mother decided to take the law into her own hands and shift to Bentley. The house was only partly built but the skillion part was habitable though there were no doors or windows and the fooring was only roughly laid. Needless to say, we boys appreciated the change. We got away from school and enjoyed the bush life, tree grubbing and felling for the men in the sawpit sawing the red cedar and bloodwood for the house.

I am afraid that when my father designed the house he did so on too large and expensive a scale for his moderate means and therefore it was years before it was properly completed. His idea was that if he

brought his wife and family to a hot climate, the least he could do was to house them comfortably and in a cool building. Hence the wattle and daub walls. Split bloodwood upright lathes in and out of which long blady grass was woven and this was plastered over with puddled clay from a pit on the Red Ridge. The fnished walls were then whitewashed and were about 6 inches thick. It was a slow job. The front

verandah is 78 feet long by 9 feet wide. There are four large from rooms, a kitchen at the west in and four skillion rooms The frst roof was of stringy bark all stripped by the Aborigines, most of it by “ Mr Morris King of Woombee”, which is the native name of the place. The bark, though cool, was not satisfactory, the pitch especially on the skillion parts being too fat for bark and leaked. In the summer of 1874-1875 the roof

was taken off and replaced by bloodwood shingles, over 20,000 of them. James Page, an expert tradesman, split and put on the shingles with Cosgrove as his helper. At the end of 1914, forty years later, Claude Edwards had galvanized iron put over the shingles. The frst chimneys were wooden but had to be replaced by brick because they caught fre too often and rendered the house unsafe.

For many years the rooms remained unceiled and I don’t think the building was completed till my brother married Brenda Rudder in December 1883 and another wooden kitchen and servants room were added on the back. Owing to his long absences on offcial duties my father was unable to properly supervise the building and other early improvements, so he engaged his old friend

MR A.A. Leycester as Manager and he and his wife came from Sydney and were with us from November 19th 1871 to November 19th 1872. Mr Leycester was a very good amateur carpenter and knew bush life from A to Z. Amongst other things he and Robert Fogwell, from Coraki, constructed the stockyard, bails, crush and gallows. Mr Leycester was a keen sportsman and taught us properly to handle frearms. All my life I have thought myself fortunate to enjoy the company of such a man and absorb bush lore from him during my young days. Arthur and I had then a tutor and it was to take advantage of this for educational purposes that Willie came and stayed at Bentley for about 18 months. The tutor being William James Osbourne Harman, who was born in England and educated at Queen Elizabeth’s Royal Grammar School. Arthur and I went to school under Mr F.R. Newton at Grafton from June to Christmas 1874 and the next year followed Mr Newton to Brockley, in the Big Scrub. This school closed down at the end of 1875 and that completed our education. To be continued -

Train passing through Bentley

Pear tree still growing on property - all Homestead site photos were taken in May 2022.

Pine trees planted in the 1880’s at the Homestead site. Trees still there

Site of the Bentley Homestead.

National Farmers’ Federation President to Visit Queensland Sugarcane Heartland

David Jochinke, President of the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF), is set to experience the vibrancy of Queensland’s sugarcane sector during his visit to the Burdekin region this week.

Originally a grain and livestock farmer from Victoria, Mr. Jochinke will take advantage of Queensland’s splendid sunshine as he tours various farms across the region, engaging directly with local members of CANEGROWERS.

The visit coincides with the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of CANEGROWERS

Burdekin, where Mr. Jochinke aims to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within Queensland’s critical sugarcane industry. “It will be great to have David here and get him out on the farm so he can hear directly from growers about the work they are doing and their hopes and plans for the future,”

said CANEGROWERS

Chairman Owen Menkens.

CANEGROWERS, as a founding member of the NFF, maintains robust ties with the national organization, working closely on issues that affect their members and the broader agricultural sector. During his visit, Mr. Jochinke is scheduled to tour several farms before returning to the CANEGROWERS

Burdekin offce to meet with staff and directors

and to address the AGM. Refecting on the signifcance of the sugarcane industry, Mr. Jochinke noted, “Given that sugarcane is Queensland’s secondlargest agricultural export, I am eager to gain frsthand insights into what makes the industry tick.” He also highlighted the broader policy challenges facing Australian farmers: “There is a deluge of bad policy ideas being thrown at farmers from decision

makers in Canberra. It’s why I launched the unprecedented campaign, Keep Farmers Farming on my frst day in the job as NFF President.”

Mr. Jochinke expressed his anticipation of discussing with local growers the pressing issues that affect their livelihoods and their vision for the sector’s future, particularly with an eye toward the industry-wide goal of reaching $100 billion by 2030.

On Wednesday, his schedule includes a meeting with the local Burdekin Council, furthering his commitment to engaging with key stakeholders to advocate for and support the farming community effectively. This visit underscores the importance of direct dialogue between national leaders and local agricultural communities in shaping a prosperous future for the industry.

A month to have your say on a creek name in

Kyogle LGA

LISMORE MP

Janelle Saffn says the Geographical Names Board is seeking community feedback on a proposal to rename a portion of Leycester Creek to Hanging Rock Creek.

The creek rises in Barkers Vale in the north and runs to Wilsons River at Lismore and was gazetted as Leycester Creek on 4 January 1974.

Historical evidence shows that the section of the river running north from Websters Creek to Barkers Vale has been known as Hanging Rock Creek since the early 1900s and over time, the name has been altered to Leycester Creek.

The proposal was submitted by a member of the local community and is seeking to rename the section of the river running north from Websters Creek to Barkers Vale as Hanging Rock Creek.

Ms Saffn said the Geographical Names Board is seeking feedback to gauge community sentiment for the proposed name.

Suggestions for alternative names are not being sought at this time, Ms Saffn said.

Details of the proposal can be viewed and submissions lodged on the Geographical Names Board’s website by visiting www.gnb.nsw. gov.au

Alternatively, written submissions may be mailed to the Secretary, Geographical Names Board, 346 Panorama Avenue, Bathurst, NSW 2795.

The closing date for submissions is 5 June 2024.

$3.8 MILLION TO HELP NORTHEN RIVERS COMMUNITY HEAL AFTER 2022 FLOODS

RESEARCHERS

at Southern Cross University have been awarded more than $3.8 million to help Northern Rivers locals affected by the devastating 2022 foods.

In a world-frst approach, the researchers will implement a stepped care model to support over 200 people left with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after the foods.

To date, there have been very few clinical trials focused on recovery from disasterrelated PTSD. None have focused on a stepped care model.

Stepped care is an evidence-based system for treating mental health, involving a hierarchy of treatments, from least to most intensive.

The stepped care treatments in this clinical trial will include an arts-based group compassion program and group-based MDMA-assisted therapy. It is hoped the fndings will provide additional treatment options for those impacted by future disasters.

People can register

their interest in participating in the clinical trial by emailing compassiontrial@scu. edu.au

The Albanese Government is providing these funds as part of the 2022 Clinical Trials Grant Activity, with funding commencing from March 2024.

Grants totalling $62 million were awarded to 26 recipients as part of the grant opportunity.

The Albanese Government has committed a total of $750 million for the Clinical Trials Activity Initiative over ten years.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Health Mark Butler MP:

“Supporting the mental health of Australians is a key priority for the Albanese Government.

“In a country often ravaged by bushfres, foods and cyclones, the world-frst research by Southern Cross University will look for new and innovative ways to help communities recover following natural disasters.

“We hope that this research project will help the Northern

Rivers community to recover following the food tragedy.

“Our Government is proud to support this groundbreaking research through the Medical Research Future Fund.”

Quotes attributable to NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn MP:

“This project not only offers innovative evidence-based practices for trauma relief, but also means something positive can come out of our local experience. This research will add to the body of knowledge around trauma and post-traumatic growth.

“James Bennett-Levy has an international reputation for innovative mental health approaches and a commitment to the wellbeing or rural Australians, particularly the residents of the Northern Rivers Region. That’s why I was happy to throw my support behind this project.”

Quotes attributable to Lead Researcher, Professor James Bennett-Levy, of Southern Cross

University:

“I thank the Minister for funding this worldfrst clinical trial of a stepped care model in a post-disaster context.

“In 2022, northern New South Wales, and Lismore in particular, experienced Australia’s most devastating foods.

People are still suffering from disaster-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

“Our research after the 2017 foods showed that mental health problems were compounded if people were self-critical and blamed themselves. We have therefore designed a stepped care program with a self-compassion focus.

Step 1 will evaluate a fve-session arts-based program which engages participants in creating compassion-focussed artworks. If participants still have PTSD, they may be eligible for Step 2, MDMA-assisted therapy. Prior research has shown that MDMAassisted therapy is an effective evidencebased treatment for PTSD and enhances self-compassion.”

Quotes attributable to Vice-Chancellor and President, Southern

Cross University Professor Tyrone Carlin:

“Under Professor Bennett-Levy’s leadership and expertise, this novel trial will broaden our knowledge about the effectiveness of therapeutic treatments for addressing serious trauma following a natural disaster.

“Lismore is the most food-prone city in Australia. We know that many in the Northern Rivers community remain traumatised by the 2022 back-to-back food disasters. Lismore is also the birthplace of Southern Cross University, and with our roots deeply embedded in the community it is appropriate we lead this project.

“We congratulate Professor Bennett Levy for being awarded the MRFF grant. It represents the largest block MRFF funding received by Southern Cross University to date and illustrates the excellence and impact of critical research conducted by the University in our region.”

Lennox Headland Tree Planting Day On Again

The annual Lennox Head Community Tree Planting Day is occurring again Friday 10 May 2024.

Patrick Sloan from GeoLINK is enthusiastic about inviting the community to plant in the 19th year since the GeoLINK and Ballina Shire Council planting partnership began.

Patrick says, “Each year, the local community rallies at the iconic Lennox headland to plant native seedlings of littoral rainforest species to restore what was once present on the headland pre-1800s. The day also helps the

community celebrate World Environment Day.”

James Brideson, Ballina Shire Council’s Natural Resource Offcer, is proud of the work so far.

“A large area has been planted since the event’s inception in 2003 when 20 volunteers frst came together to plant 140 seedlings,” said Mr Brideson.

“Each year the event continues to grow, and at last count, it has been supported by 1,850 volunteers planting over 14,000 seedlings.”

Everyone is invited to join at the top of Lennox

headland from 9am to 12noon on Friday 10 May 2024.

Ballina Shire Council will supply trees, mulch, water, and some tools.

The Lennox Head business community and volunteer groups have generously donated a barbecue and refreshments.

“Please wear sun protection and closed-in shoes and bring digging tools if you own any,” added Mr Brideson.

For further event information, contact GeoLINK on 02 6687 7666.

Annual Tree Planting Day

Lennox Head Credit Geolink

Man Faces Court for Multiple Offenses in Murwillumbah

A 27-year-old man is slated to appear in Tweed Heads Local Court today, facing a total of 22 charges stemming from various alleged driving and property offenses in Murwillumbah.

The charges follow a comprehensive investigation by local law enforcement into a series of incidents that occurred in early April 2024.

The investigation, led by offcers from the Tweed/Byron Police District and the Far North Highway Patrol Command, was initiated after authorities linked several criminal activities, including alleged break-ins, car thefts, police pursuits, and breaches of Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs). During the course of the probe, two arrest warrants were issued for the suspect.

Following extensive inquiries and aided by community tips, police located the suspect at a unit on Church Lane in Murwillumbah around 5 PM on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. After a brief foot chase, he was apprehended and taken to Tweed Heads Police Station, where the warrants were executed, and the charges were formally laid.

The charges against him include seven counts of driving with a license expired within the last two years, three counts of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, two counts each of engaging in a police pursuit and dangerously driving, receiving stolen property from outside NSW, and failing to wear a seatbelt properly. Additionally, he faces charges related to breaking and entering, using a vehicle with an unauthorized number plate, failing to appear in court as required by bail conditions, breaching detention orders, contravening restrictions in an AVO, and affray.

The man was denied bail pending his court appearance. The local community has been following the case closely due to the number of offenses and the nature of the alleged crimes.

National Parenting Survey Unveils Challenges of Modern Parenting Amid Economic and Social Pressures

In a landmark survey, the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program today disclosed fndings from its most extensive parenting study to date, underscoring the severe impacts of economic hardships, emotional stress, sleep deprivation, and digital media concerns on the mental health and wellbeing of children.

A total of 8,304 parents and caregivers participated in this comprehensive national survey, orchestrated by Triple P founder and Clinical Psychologist at the University of Queensland, Professor Matt Sanders. The fndings offer a detailed overview of the multitude of challenges confronting a broad and diverse demographic of Australian families.

Professor Sanders emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “The results reveal the current state of stress under which families in Australia are operating,

amidst escalating fnancial diffculties, rising concerns over children’s mental health and wellbeing, and increasing instances of school refusal.”

He further noted, “Parenting is a complex journey exacerbated by these pressing issues. It is imperative that we equip families on the front lines with evidence-based support to foster their wellbeing and enhance their parenting effcacy, ensuring the development of happy, resilient children.”

Key Insights from Triple P’s 2024 National Parenting Survey:

• Financial Restraints: Approximately 90% of respondents have reduced spending due to cost-of-living increases, with signifcant cutbacks on dining out (81%), entertainment (70%), and vacations (69%). More than half have also scaled down

on grocery expenses.

• Emotional and Relationship Impact: 42% of parents reported that fnancial strain has adversely affected their capacity to maintain calm and nurturing relationships within the family.

• Self-Care and Mental Health: Nearly half of all parents expressed dissatisfaction with their personal time for self-care activities such as exercising, socializing, or engaging in hobbies. About two-thirds feel guilty about the time spent with their children, and a substantial majority (83%) of parents with young children under fve years old experience sleep deprivation weekly.

• Communication and Discipline: Over 80% of parents fnd themselves raising their voice or yelling at their children, highlighting the strain of parenting under stress.

• Digital Concerns:

The digital realm poses signifcant challenges; 85% of parents who allow their children to use social media report regular conficts, and a strong majority remains concerned about online safety (82%) and the impact of social media on their children’s mental health (79%).

Professor Sanders advocates for proactive engagement, “These fndings underscore the importance of equipping parents and caregivers with effective strategies to guide their children’s digital interactions. Regular, open discussions about technology use are essential for navigating this complex landscape.”

Despite these challenges, the survey revealed a resilient streak among parents, with 80% optimistic that their children would lead better lives than their own.

“The response underscores the pivotal

role of parents and caregivers as agents of change in their children’s lives. To support this vital role, we continue to provide accessible, evidence-based parenting resources, with over 270,000 Australian families already benefting from our online support programs,” added Professor Sanders.

Funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care under the Parenting Education and Support Program, the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program offers essential resources for parents and caregivers, accessible at triplepparenting.net.au.

The survey was executed by C|T Group on behalf of Triple P International, refecting a national initiative to address and mitigate parenting challenges through strategic support and guidance.

Rising Tide Northern Rivers Gains Momentum with Film Nights and Action Initiatives

Rising Tide Northern Rivers, a dynamic climate defence movement, has offcially launched in Hastings Point and Lismore, galvanizing local communities to address Australia’s signifcant contributions to the global climate crisis. As one of the world’s largest exporters of coal and gas, Australia faces crucial challenges, which Rising Tide aims to confront by targeting coal exports, especially through Newcastle, the world’s largest coal port.

The formation of Rising Tide Northern Rivers was inspired by a signifcant turnout at the World’s Largest Blockade of the Port of Newcastle in November 2023. Over 2,000 activists, including more than 100 locals from Northern Rivers,

participated in the 32-hour blockade using hundreds of kayaks. This monumental event led to Australia’s largest mass arrest for climate action, with seven locals among the 109 detained. At the movement’s Hastings Point launch, attendees took to Cudgera Creek in kayaks, discussing

motivations behind their climate activism and exploring strategies to expand the network. The Lismore launch featured heartfelt welcomes from Uncle Roy Gordon and musical contributions from Terri Nicholson and Paul Paitson, who performed songs echoing themes of resistance and environmental

stewardship.

Emma Briggs, who attended the Lismore event, expressed her commitment to challenging the ongoing reliance on fossil fuels within Australia. “Despite international promises to move away from coal and gas, domestic practices remain largely unchanged. It’s crucial that we implement the environmental safeguards we needed decades ago,” she stated.

Upcoming Events

Rising Tide Northern Rivers continues its outreach with upcoming flm screenings of ‘The First Wave: The People’s Blockade’. These events aim not only to educate and inspire but also to support crucial environmental campaigns:

• Brunswick Heads

Picture House: Join us on Sunday, 5 May at 5:00 PM for a screening that will beneft the Save Wallum campaign. Tickets are available in advance through the Brunswick Heads Picture House website.

• timbre in Lismore: Another opportunity to engage will be on Friday, 24 May at 5:00 PM. To attend this event, please RSVP at The First Wave Lismore Screening. These flm nights are excellent opportunities for community members to come together, learn about the impacts of coal and gas, and take actionable steps towards a more sustainable and equitable future. Rising Tide Northern Rivers is at the forefront of local climate action, urging residents to join in their ongoing efforts to protect our planet.

Cameras to enforce seatbelt law across NSW from July 1

WEARING a seatbelt will be enforced by existing mobile phone detection cameras from July 1 as the NSW Labor Government bolsters efforts to counter the rising number of road fatalities across the state.

The simple act of correctly wearing a seatbelt while in a moving vehicle has been a legal requirement in NSW for more than 50 years, but data shows 150 people died while not wearing one in the fve years between 2019 and 2023.

On average, 15 per cent of deaths on NSW roads every year still involve seatbelt nonusage, with 36 people tragically lost last year.

The enhancement of the state’s world-frst mobile phone detection camera network will allow for a July 1 start date to the cameras also enforcing the seatbelt laws for the frst time, the NSW Government confrms today.

Unlike when other new enforcement technologies have come into effect, there will be no grace period of warning letters after the NSW Parliament voted against starting seatbelt detection cameras in warning mode when enabling legislation was passed last year.

Photos released from testing of the cameras show a small but persistent percentage of drivers and some

passengers continue to fout the law and wear their seatbelt incorrectly, including with the sash below the arm.

Every dollar raised by seatbelt cameras will go back into road safety.

Quotes attributable to State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn:

“The key here is personal, family and community safety. This is the best position from which to start.

“Our government wants to keep us safe. Our government has a duty to keep us safe. And at times that calls for some tough love.

“If drivers are failing in your obligation to keep yourself, your passengers and your fellow citizens, we shall

slug you hard.

“I cannot believe that in 2024 some people are driving without putting their seatbelts on. They are putting themselves and everyone they come into contact with at risk.

“The message is clear; belt up, buckle up or pay the price.”

As of midnight Thursday 2 May 2024, 124 lives have been lost on NSW roads, which is 16 more than the same time last in 2023.

The NSW Labor Government has introduced a number of measures to counter the rising number of road fatalities, including:

· The demerit point trial to encourage motorists who maintain

a spotless record over 12 months to have a demerit point removed from their record

· Hosting the state’s frst Road Safety Forum of international and local experts

· Last month we signed the National Road Safety Data Sharing Agreement to help support analysis of driver behaviour, and help the various state and federal governments work together to understand where the funding needs to go

· Removing a loophole to force all motorists driving on a foreign licence to convert to a NSW licence within six months

· Doubling roadside enforcement sites

used for mobile speed cameras, with the addition of 2700 new locations where a camera can be deployed. Enforcement hours will remain the same.

Today marks the start of National Road Safety Week, an annual initiative of the Safer Australian Roads and Highways (SARAH) Group, which aims to highlight the impact of road trauma and ways to reduce it.

The theme for 2024 is All road safety is local – Drive So Others Survive.

For more information on National Road Safety Week visit: https://roadsafetyweek. com.au/

Rising Tide Northern Rivers Gains Momentum with Film Nights and Action Initiatives

Key points

• Raine & Horne expands its presence in the NSW Northern Rivers region with the launch of Raine & Horne Ballina/Alstonville, led by experienced real estate agents Aiden Wilcox and Curtis Golding.

• The dynamic duo aims to change the landscape of real estate in the Northern Rivers, with Mr Wilcox focusing on real estate sales and Mr Golding overseeing the property management division.

• The co-principals were attracted to Raine & Horne because of its continuous improvement, industry-leading technology, and forwardthinking approach, particularly highlighting the recent rebranding efforts that refect a clean and modern look for the Australasian super brand.

Ballina, NSW, (2 May 2024) Super brand Raine & Horne is excited to announce it is boosting its well-entrenched network in the NSW Northern Rivers region with the launch of an offce in Ballina led by experienced real estate specialists and long-time real estate competitors Aiden Wilcox and Curtis

Golding.

Raine & Horne Ballina/Alstonville is extending its services to Alstonville and other surrounding areas, with Mr Wilcox spearheading real estate sales and Mr Curtis overseeing the property management division.

“Curtis and I have known each other for a fair while. We’ve worked for competing agencies in the area and were getting tired of the old-school approach to real estate,” Mr Wilcox said. The duo are born and bred in the Ballina region, while Mr Curtis’s family has a long history in the local real estate market.

Mr Wilcox continued, “Our long-term goals were to open an agency individually, but we were fairly like-minded in our approach and wanted to create something, and then Raine & Horne Growth Manager Steve Worrad came along.”

The decision to partner with Raine & Horne was motivated by their positive experience with Mr Worrad, who had been instrumental in helping them fnd the perfect offce location, along with Raine & Horne’s commitment to

continuous improvement. During their short interactions with Raine & Horne, the duo has been impressed that the super brand has continued to tweak its industry-leading technology, such as the AI-driven, social media marketing platform Amplify.

“Steve has been working with us for a while now to get us on board, and over that time, we’ve seen changes to Amplify that show that Raine & Horne never sits still. It felt like it was meant to be,” added Mr Golding, who has worked in the local real estate market since leaving school in 2008.

“We appreciate Raine & Horne’s forwardthinking approach with products such as Amplify and the frst-to-market online listing tool, DigiKitPlus— both are user-friendly, professional, and always up-to-date.

“The brand adopts current trends, setting them apart from many agencies in the Ballina and Alstonville area, which may not have refreshed their templates and tools in recent years. In today’s dynamic environment, staying

three steps ahead is crucial; otherwise, you risk falling behind swiftly.”

Smooth onboarding and prime location

The onboarding process with Raine & Horne has been smooth and impressive, according to Mr Wilcox. “From what they’ve shown us so far, it’s a cut above some of the other systems and processes we’ve used in the past,” he notes.

Mr Golding added, “Every time we pick up the phone and have a question, they’ve been good at getting responses to us quickly. Quite frankly, I can’t fault them in the onboarding process so far.”

The new offce, located at 178 River Street in Ballina, is strategically positioned on one of the best street corners in the area, offering excellent visibility and exposure. Mr Wilcox explained “Steve found the location, and because the commercial leasing market in Ballina is exceptionally tight, we decided to buy an established business, and start the ft-out.

“Buying out a business to access the property represents a signifcant

additional startup cost. However, there hasn’t been a suitable shop available for lease for three to fve years, and we were determined to secure a prime location. We also feel it demonstrates the hard yards we’re prepared to take to be successful.”

The co-principals express their excitement about the clean and forward-thinking branding of Raine & Horne. “It’s a massive step in the right direction. It’s clean, consistent, and resonates with the 21st century,” says Mr Golding.

Robust local demand from out of area buyers drive median prices

According to Mr Wilcox, the local market is robust and poised for growth, underpinning its standing as one of the fastest-growing markets in Australia.

“Despite a slight price correction, good turnover prevails. Median house prices in Ballina and Alstonville hover around a million dollars and $850,000-$1,000,000, respectively,” he said.

The demand is fuelled by local buyers, responding to a scarcity of supply, escalating land and building prices, and

post-food recovery.

“External interest persists, with buyers from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast attracted by the region’s charm and lifestyle,” Mr Golding added.

“Currently, a 70-30 split between local and out-of-area buyers prevails, a shift from the trend we saw during COVID-19.”

The offcial offce launch event in May 2024 will celebrate the agency’s commitment to providing excellent service and embracing the next wave of real estate.

“We have a team of approximately eleven individuals who have joined us. They all share a like-minded approach and a genuine eagerness to achieve immediate success,” said Mr Golding.

“Their mindset is aligned with our contemporary values— striving for excellence. They seek a brand that is modern, consistent, and in tune with the demands of the 21st century – and that is Raine & Horne.”

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Elon gated by eSafety Commissar.

Iam so disappointed, indeed angry, furious even.

I have written to X and Facebook many times (you can’t phone them, and obviously face to face with Facebook is out) but no matter how hard I have tried I can’t get anyone on X or Facebook to post an AI generated fake of myself selling some miracle product or even get a rightwing-nazi-nut-job to post some vile racist, sexist or religious garbage on my page.

Amicus McLaren Vale Reserve Shiraz 2021, $16.50. Not sure what the real prices of these wines are, so just divided 99 by 6, including delivery! Incredible. Very McLaren Vale and suitably solid stuff without being too sophisticated. 9.1/10.

Don’t they know who I am? Surely if Karl Kruszelnicki gets impersonated to sell wellness poisons, I’d be worth a clone fogging something.

Yes, that and other recent events have seen the social media debate turn to the dark side which has merely proved the arrogance of the various platforms and that they should be called to account. Maybe.

Of course that would

Shiraz 2021, $16.50. Everyone wants to belong, however if Facebook is your only belonging, that’s where it gets sad. But if you get one of these, you’ll belong to the Hills too. Serviceable stuff with which to watch The Sound of Music. 9/10.

mean siding with Peter Dutton and Sussan Ley, although oddly not the rest of them, who, paradoxically, demonstrated wholeheartedly during last year’s referendum debate that they believe lies and misinformation on social media are fne if it wins votes and donations.

But yes, perhaps one must draw a line. Lies, deceit, AI generated fakes and how persecuted Donald Trump is, are all fair game, as is gambling, trolling and

2020, $16.50. Barely four years old but has that dusty old Parisian bistro character about it, a bit rough around the edges but when you’re in Paris, that just adds to the character and romance. 8.9/10.

Pirathon Barossa Valley

abuse generally, so why not stabbings, massacres, beheadings and other vile stuff?

Just don’t show a bare breast or you will be smote by the full evangelical weight of Mark and Elon, you vile, perverted, flthy, godless, low-life cretin. You’ll be banned from FB and X forever.

The hardest bit to grasp, though, is that these platforms (who famously pay no tax nor heed to social norms and laws) are

boast, Silver, subtly suggesting second place, although who wouldn’t be happy coming second in the world at something? Regardless it is alluring Barossan wine with a juicy-fruity nose (not the breakfast cereal btw) and defnitely smells younger

not compulsory. We are not forced to watch awful videos or the National party explain its anachronistic sense of entitlement, so why not just switch off, Jacquie Lambie style?

Then if they’re still in business, just put warnings on social media as they do on cigarette packets and wine bottles about the relative truth and potential harm, and tax them to buggery while we’re at it.

Alas the issue merely highlights the weirdly

Vale Heritage Limited Edition Shiraz 2021, $16.50. ALike lots of stuff sold online, the limited edition probably means it is limited to how ever many bottles customers want. But it is big and lovely, so you will likely want more 9.3/10.

weak-kneed worth of governments in this realm. We tax wine half to extinction, but Facebook and X barely pay a cent. Go fgure is the modern vernacular.

Meanwhile, look what I found advertised on Instagram recently…a six-pack from Vinomofo for $99! Just don’t follow the links to The Blind Boys of Alabama…ooh, hang on , they’re the good guys. I meant The Proud Boys of Alabama.

Sauvignon 2012, $?. The oldest of the bunch and the hardest to get into…sealed under cork. The antithesis of modernity. Haven’t they learnt anything from social media? Specially crafted for friends and family of Reschke apparently, so you can feel

Max Crus

THE HEART OF INLAND NSW

Dubbo

Start your journey in Dubbo, a vibrant regional city with the famous Taronga Western Plains Zoo. Here, you can enjoy a safari experience in Australia, viewing a wide range of animals in open-range settings. Dubbo also serves as a great base for exploring nearby historical towns and natural reserves.

Orange

Next, head to Orange, known for its excellent food and wine scene. This town is a haven for gastronomes, offering exquisite local produce and wine-tasting tours at its numerous vineyards. The region’s cool climate is perfect for growing Chardonnay and Shiraz grapes, making it a mustvisit for wine enthusiasts.

Bathurst Bathurst, Australia’s oldest inland settlement, is next on your list. It’s famous for the Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit, which hosts the Bathurst 1000 car race. However, the city’s

history is not all about racing; it’s also home to beautiful heritage buildings and the fascinating Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum.

Mudgee

Further into your journey, Mudgee awaits with its charming colonial buildings and another thriving wine industry. Mudgee’s wine tours are a delightful way to spend a day, or even a weekend, sampling some of the best drops in the region, paired with gourmet local foods from surrounding farms.

ADVENTURE AND NATURAL BEAUTY

Blue Mountains

No trip to inland NSW would be complete without visiting the Blue Mountains. Known for dramatic scenery, it features steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests, waterfalls and dotted villages. The area offers abundant hiking trails, scenic world cableway, and the famous Three Sisters rock formation.

Warrumbungle

National Park

For those who prefer a

more rugged adventure, the Warrumbungle

National Park provides a unique blend of mountainous terrain, rich wildlife, and clear night skies ideal for stargazing. It’s a great spot for camping, hiking, and photography.

HIDDEN GEMS

Glen Innes and the Celtic Country

Explore Glen Innes in the New England region, known for its Celtic heritage. The town hosts an annual Australian Celtic Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the country. The nearby Standing Stones represent the Celtic connection and are a unique sight in the Australian countryside.

Lightning Ridge Lightning Ridge, known for the black opal, provides a unique outback experience. Visit the opal felds, try your hand at fossicking, or relax in the naturally heated Artesian Bore Baths.

PRACTICAL TIPS

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit inland NSW is during

the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), when the weather is mild and pleasant.

• Getting Around:

Driving your own or renting a car is the best way to explore inland NSW, as it allows you to travel at your own pace and access areas that are off the beaten path.

• Accommodations: From cosy bed and breakfasts in historic towns to luxury retreats in the countryside, there’s a wide range of accommodations available to suit any preference.

INLAND NSW AWAITS!

Inland NSW is a region of rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. It offers a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences that cater to all ages and interests. This guide only scratches the surface of what this vibrant area has to offer, so pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Australia.

National Framework Proposes Expanded Role for Paramedics in Home Palliative Care

A new national framework suggests enhancing the role of paramedics in supporting palliative care patients who wish to die peacefully at home, potentially easing the pressure on emergency departments. Developed through consultations with a diverse group of stakeholders—including paramedics, palliative care physicians, general practitioners, and carers from six countries and all Australian states— the framework aims to integrate palliative care more deeply into paramedic services and reduce unnecessary hospital transports. Published in the international peerreviewed journal Palliative Medicine, the framework achieved consensus among experts on 32 service modifcations to standardize best

practices for paramedics providing palliative care in community settings.

Dr. Madeleine Juhrmann, the lead author, a trained paramedic, and a research fellow at Flinders University, emphasized the growing global demand for palliative care, which has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. She highlighted the need for home-based care, “Many palliative care patients have a strong desire to pass away at home surrounded by family, without the distress of hospital transport following basic pain management.”

In her publication, Dr. Juhrmann outlined the varying roles of paramedics in delivering unscheduled palliative care and stressed the need for consistent support. “Paramedics are ideally positioned to

provide care to palliative and end-of-life patients in the community, especially after-hours when specialist services may not be available,” she wrote.

The framework

suggests practical steps to empower paramedics in delivering comprehensive, personcentred palliative care:

• Access to electronic medical records to review

patients’ advance care plans and palliative care details in real-time.

• Maintenance of palliative and end-oflife care guidelines by ambulance services, including administering specifc medications for common end-of-life symptoms onsite.

• Integration of paramedics into local palliative care referral pathways, offering alternatives to hospital emergency departments.

The impact of such initiatives is refected in personal stories like that of Leonie Jamieson, whose husband Neil died peacefully at home in Port Noarlunga in 2019. Paramedics respected Neil’s advance care directive against intubation and hospital transport, focusing instead on comfort measures. “The paramedics read his directive thoroughly and

respected his wishes, which was a great relief to us,” Ms. Jamieson shared.

Andrew Noble, an Extended Care Paramedic and Team Leader who participated in the expert panel, noted, “This research will signifcantly help ambulance services develop consistent policies and practices across the country, tailored to the unique needs of palliative patients preferring homebased care.”

The framework, part of Dr. Juhrmann’s PhD research supported by the HammondCare Foundation, sets the stage for a multidisciplinary approach to implement these strategies effectively, aiming to overcome any barriers to integrating the framework into national policies and practices.

When living in your own home is no longer an option, you’re most welcome to make our home yours and live in

and

Dedicated to quality care

You will be treated with kindness, dignity and respect. We are dedicated to providing the best care possible to give residents their best life.

We’re for people, not for profit Southern Cross Care has supported older people in NSW and the ACT for over 50 years. As a not-for-profit organisation, we’re solely focused on providing the best care we can.

We’ll arrange the services important to you

Every resident is unique. We’ll work with you to create a personal care plan for your exact needs. Those needs will be met by our team of carers, lifestyle officers, spiritual and wellbeing coordinators, registered nurses, and any specialists needed.

Visit our home with a tour

We’ll be happy to arrange for a tour, please ask when you call.

Leonie Jamieson, whose husband Neil died peacefully at home in Port Noarlunga in 2019

Escalating Health Costs Demand In-Depth Review of Private Health Insurance

New insights have surfaced, indicating an uptick in private health insurance costs that may be fuelling proft margins rather than enhancing patient care, according to recent Australian Medical Association (AMA) data. This information aligns with concerns expressed by retirees in the Policy Advocacy Survey conducted last year, where private health emerged as a major worry among 6,500 older Australians, ranking as their second largest concern.

The AMA’s fndings suggest that signifcant components of rising premiums are not directly associated with improving patient services such as treatments, hospital stays, or medical equipment upgrades. Instead, there has been a notable increase in net proft and management expenses. Over the past four years, net insurance profts reportedly surged by 50.2% and management expenses by 32%, overshadowing the modest increases in patient rebates (3.6%) and general treatment benefts (13.4%).

These revelations come amidst controversy stirred by an ABC Four Corners report, which highlighted potential overcharging practices in spinal surgeries—a claim

the AMA disputes as unbalanced. In contrast, representatives from Private Health Australia, including CEO Dr. Rachel David, defend the current fnancial practices, citing rigorous scrutiny by regulatory bodies and attributing expense increases to broader economic infation.

The debate extends to the returns policyholders

receive from their premiums, with the general insurance sector averaging returns of 65 cents per dollar, whereas private health insurers report returning 86 cents per dollar. The AMA advocates for a minimum return of 90 cents per dollar to ensure greater value for premium payers.

Amid these contentious exchanges, the need

for a comprehensive review of the private health insurance system has never been more pressing. National Seniors Australia has proposed that the Federal Government commission the Productivity Commission to undertake a thorough inquiry focused on the escalating growth of insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses,

the value and scope of coverage, and necessary reforms to curtail costs.

The proposed inquiry aims to particularly address the concerns of older Australians, seeking to enhance the value proposition of policies for this demographic and ultimately halt the relentless cycle of premium increases and coverage limitations that many face.

This issue, complicated by ongoing disputes between healthcare providers and insurers over responsibility for rising costs, underscores the urgency for an independent, in-depth review capable of implementing signifcant reforms in the private health sector. An objective examination by the Productivity Commission could pave the way for a restructured system that better serves all Australians, especially the elderly.

Retiring at 70: The Emerging Trend Among Australian Workers

A recent study has highlighted a signifcant shift in retirement expectations among Australians, particularly among educated, whitecollar workers. The analysis by KPMG indicates that the average retirement age is rising, now reaching the highest levels since the early 1970s. This change refects broader labour market dynamics and societal trends infuenced by post-COVID-19 conditions.

Key Findings:

• Rising Retirement Age: Men now expect to retire at an average age of 66.2 years, up from 63.3, while women have seen

their expected retirement age increase from 61.6 to 64.8 years.

• Infuence of Education: Higher levels of education correlate with extended working years, suggesting that more educated individuals tend to retire later.

• International Comparisons: Countries with rapidly aging populations like Japan and South Korea have seen retirement ages push to around 70.

Labour Market Contributions: During the COVID-19 pandemic, older workers played a crucial role in flling gaps within the Australian labour

market. Between 2019 and 2021, individuals aged 55 and over accounted for nearly 70% of the labour force growth. However, the share of older workers has since decreased with the resumption of international migration and an increase in the younger workforce.

Despite these trends, Terry Rawnsley, a KPMG urban economist, suggests that the continued rise in retirement age may have reached a plateau, citing a shortage of older workers to sustain the growth seen during the pandemic.

Drivers of Extended

Working Years:

• Job Flexibility: Enhanced fexibility in

“knowledge-intensive” roles allows older workers to continue their professional activities beyond traditional retirement ages.

• Health and Education: Better overall health and higher education levels enable longer working lives.

• Financial Needs: Larger mortgages and delayed parenthood mean many Australians need to work longer.

• Technology: Advances in technology facilitate remote working, enabling older Australians to work from more desirable locations, effectively allowing for a

form of “semi-retirement.”

Regional Variations: Cities like Perth and Melbourne exhibit the highest expected retirement ages, refecting tight labour market conditions. In contrast, Sydney and Brisbane show lower retirement ages, possibly due to individuals moving to coastal areas upon retirement.

Impact on Wellbeing: A separate study by Flinders University highlights potential negative impacts of increasing the Age Pension eligibility age to 67. The study suggests that delaying retirement can adversely affect life satisfaction, particularly because it may reduce

individuals’ sense of control over their lives—a signifcant component of the positive health effects associated with retirement.

As Australia grapples with these evolving labour market and demographic trends, the fndings call for a nuanced understanding of the implications of delaying retirement, not just from an economic perspective but also considering the wellbeing of aging workers. The balance between extending working life for economic necessity and the quality of life in later years remains a critical issue for policymakers and society at large.

Cadillac Prepares to Expand Electric Vehicle Lineup in Australia - starting with Lyriq Crossover

By Jeff Gibbs

Cadillac is poised to make a signifcant impact in the Australian market with the launch of its electric vehicle (EV) lineup, beginning with the Lyriq crossover (pictured). Jess Bala, General Motors (GM) Australia and New Zealand’s managing director, indicated that following the introduction of the Lyriq, the luxury brand plans to unveil more models by late 2024 or early 2025. The company’s initial foray into the Australian market will be marked by the Lyriq, which will be built in right-hand drive at GM’s Spring Hill, Tennessee plant. This move is part of Cadillac’s broader strategy to establish a strong foothold in the EV sector globally. While the Lyriq is set to start, GM has not dismissed the possibility of sourcing future models from China, depending on market dynamics and production strategies.

GM has already laid the groundwork for additional EVs by securing trademarks in Australia for names like Optiq, Escalade iQ, and Vistiq, hinting at what might be next in their lineup.

Bala explained that trademarking globally is a standard part of GM’s process to maintain brand consistency as new vehicles are

conceptualized and eventually launched.

Cadillac aims to differentiate itself in the competitive luxury EV market

by offering a unique buying experience. The brand will sell vehicles through three ‘Cadillac Experience Centres’ located in Melbourne and

Sydney, Australia, and Auckland, New Zealand, rather than traditional dealerships. This directto-consumer approach is designed to provide a reimagined luxury buying experience that extends from initial inquiry to long-term vehicle ownership.

Despite aiming for “exclusive volumes,”

Bala is confdent in the brand’s potential

in the Australian market, particularly among luxury buyers who see themselves as trendsetters. The Lyriq will be competitively priced within the mid-sized SUV segment, competing with similar offerings from established European luxury brands like BMW’s iX. In the US, the Lyriq starts at around A$90,000, although specifc Australian pricing has not been confrmed but expect a starting price of $150,000.

Cadillac’s commitment to an elevated after-sales experience includes providing consistent, high-end service, emphasizing the ongoing relationship with the customer well beyond the initial purchase.

As Cadillac gears up to expand its presence with a range of EVs, it is clear that the luxury automaker is not only challenging competitors but also redefning the luxury car ownership experience in Australia.

Anticipation Builds for RAM 1500 TRX Successor as RAM Signals New Developments

By Jeff Gibbs

As the automotive world continues to evolve, RAM Trucks is not standing still, especially in the highperformance pickup segment. The brand has stirred excitement with a potential successor to the powerful RAM 1500 TRX, as revealed in a LinkedIn post by the company’s marketing chief, Jeff Summers. This post, flled with hidden details from the RAM 1500 RHO’s reveal video, hinted at an even more formidable model in the pipeline. Current Landscape and Future Potential

The 2025 RAM 1500 RHO, equipped with a force-fed straight-six engine, aligns with the outputs of other facelifted MY25 RAM 1500 models. Although it marks a signifcant advancement, it doesn’t directly replace the supercharged 6.2-litre

V8-powered TRX known for its raw power and speed. Notably, the RHO’s competitive 0-97 kph acceleration time brings it close to its predecessor’s performance metrics, but enthusiasts and critics know that the TRX’s legacy demands even more.

Clues and Confrmations

In his post, Summers particularly highlighted a dirt bike in the RHO reveal video labeled ‘540’ for horsepower, alongside another bike

with a blank label, speculated to represent the horsepower for an upcoming RAM model. This tease suggests that RAM is not only keen on continuing the TRX lineage but is planning to surpass previous benchmarks. RAM CEO Tim Kuniskis further fueled these speculations at the reveal of the TRX Final Edition by mentioning, “This current chapter in Ram’s high-performance trucks is coming to a close, but it’s not the end of TRX’s story.”

Exploring New Horizons

The speculation around the next TRX includes several exciting powertrain possibilities:

• Enhanced SixCylinder Option: Building on the RHO’s engine, an even more powerful six-cylinder could be in development, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible without a V8.

• Hybrid Powertrain: Refecting broader industry

trends towards electrifcation, a hybridized version of the Hurricane engine is a strong contender, potentially offering a blend of traditional combustion power with electric effciency and torque.

• Full Electric Confguration: As Stellantis moves towards electrifcation, a fully electric TRX could transform the concept of high-performance pickups, delivering instant torque and reducing emissions. Strategic Positioning and Market Impact

The upcoming model is poised to challenge the Ford F-150 Raptor R directly, situating the RHO to contend with the standard F-150 Raptor. This strategic positioning not only diversifes RAM’s offerings but also

caters to varying levels of performance needs and preferences within the consumer base.

Expected Timeline and Introduction

Industry insiders anticipate that the new RAM 1500 TRX could be revealed next year as a 2026 model. This timeline allows RAM to perfect the integration of advanced powertrains and perhaps set new standards in truck performance.

Conclusion

As RAM prepares to unveil its next-generation TRX, the automotive community watches with bated breath. With the potential introduction of groundbreaking technologies and powertrains, RAM is not just aiming to continue the TRX legacy; it’s looking to redefne it, ensuring the brand remains at the forefront of the high-performance truck market.

By Jeff Gibbs

Kia’s 4WD SUV based on Tasman ute

Kia is gearing up to introduce a formidable competitor in the rugged SUV market with its latest project, a ladder-frame 4WD based on its Tasman ute. Newly released renders provide a glimpse into what could potentially shake up the segment currently dominated by models like the Toyota LandCruiser Prado.

The vehicle, still under consideration but increasingly likely due to robust international demand, showcases a blocky design, poised to capitalize on Kia’s new ladder-frame platform initially developed for the Tasman. Although details are still forming, the SUV’s concept stems

from substantial insights into the ute’s design and capabilities.

Anticipation for this rugged SUV is growing not just in Australia but globally, with signifcant interest from markets like the Middle

East and South Africa.

These regions, known for their preference for powerful engines and robust vehicles, suggest the inclusion of a V6 engine could be pivotal. Kia may likely equip the SUV with

the 3.5-litre V6 engine found in models such as the Carnival and Sorento, which delivers approximately 216kW and 355Nm.

However, enthusiasts and potential buyers will need to be patient.

Kia’s focus remains on successfully launching the Tasman ute, scheduled for next year, before expanding its line-up. The potential SUV variant could hit the market by 2025 at the earliest.

Kia’s commitment to setting high standards in the utility segment is clear, with aspirations to benchmark the Tasman ute as a top contender.

“We’re defnitely aiming for (the benchmark),” stated Kia Australia’s product planning chief, Roland Rivero. “We’re not mucking around when it comes to the ute. We want to make sure that the frst attempt at a ute from our brand is one that’s going to do well in our market.”

As the automotive landscape braces for Kia’s next big move, the industry and consumers alike are keenly watching what could be a new leader in the tough, versatile SUV category.

2024 Nissan Z Nismo Hits the Market with Abundant Supply

By Jeff Gibbs

Nissan has signifcantly increased the availability of its top-tier Z Nismo sports car for 2024, ready to compete aggressively with the Toyota Supra and Ford Mustang GT. After the initial 100 units sold out in less than an hour in 2023, Nissan Australia has now ensured a more plentiful supply for eager consumers, with immediate delivery options from dealerships.

The 2024 Z Nismo, exclusive in its automatic transmission confguration, is equipped with a twinturbo 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 309 kW and

520 Nm of torque, an increase of 11 kW and 45 Nm over the standard Z model. The car features a suite of Nismo-specifc enhancements including larger front brakes, a tuned launch control, and upgraded suspension and anti-roll bars for sharper

cornering capabilities. Additionally, the Nismo variant includes a specialized exhaust system, enhanced engine cooling, sporty Recaro seats, and wider tires for better grip. Aesthetic and aerodynamic tweaks further distinguish it

from its less powerful counterpart.

Despite its numerous upgrades, the Z Nismo comes with a hefty price tag starting at $94,000 (before on-road costs), positioning it $18,000 above the standard Z auto. It directly competes

with the Supra GR GTS, priced from $97,380, which offers both manual and automatic transmissions and is powered by a BMWsourced 3.0-litre sixcylinder turbocharged engine.

For those interested in traditional muscle cars with more seating, the Ford Mustang remains a viable option. It boasts a 5.0-litre V8 engine with 339 kW and 556 Nm, available at a more affordable $68,290.

Nissan Australia’s Managing Director, Andrew Humberstone, emphasized the demand for the Z Nismo, noting that the rapid sell-out of the frst batch

underscored the need to bolster supply to satisfy the built-up consumer anticipation. “The Z Nismo is a vehicle that needs to be driven to be believed, and we’re so happy that even more Australians will now get the chance to do exactly that,” he stated. With its blend of performance enhancements and the iconic Nismo badge, the 2024 Nissan Z Nismo is poised to make a signifcant impact in the sports car market, offering an enticing option for driving enthusiasts looking for a blend of power, style, and exclusivity.

The Institute of Applied Technology –Construction (IATC) has announced three new microskills to its suite of courses as well as fee-free training places for women.

The Institute is a partnership between TAFE NSW, leading construction company CPB Contractors, and Western Sydney University.

Co-designed with industry experts, microskills are online, bite-sized, self-directed courses. These three new microskills focus on topics critical for building capability in the construction sector now and into the future and include: Introduction to Women in Construction, Introduction to Sustainability in Construction, and The Role of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in Construction.

The IATC is also furthering its commitment to encourage more women to kickstart a career in construction or upskill in their current role with the availability of 60 fee-free training places in its microcredential courses. The scholarships come at a time when the construction industry in Australia is facing a shortage of over 100,000 workers.

Applications are

NEW SCHOLARSHIPS FOR WOMEN TO BUILD CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION

now open for the Women in Construction Scholarships, delivered by the Institute of Applied Technology Construction.

CPB Contractors General Manager Infrastructure NSW and ACT, Rob Monaci said, “As the pipeline of infrastructure continues to grow, particularly with the focus on housing and new energy, the need for more skilled workers is an industry-wide issue. We need to be doing more to attract people at all stages of their careers to transition into fulfilling careers in construction, particularly women.”

The microcredentials take eight weeks to complete and provide industry-specific skills recognised as evidence of competence. The microcredentials can be completed online or face-to-face.

Women in Construction Scholarship courses are aimed at high-growth areas and include:

• Project Management Foundations in Construction

• Introduction to Project Scope Management in Construction

• Project Risk Management in Construction

• Stakeholder Engagement and Management in Construction

• Quality Management in Construction

• 2D CAD Drawings and 3D Models in Construction

• Introduction to Building Information

Modelling (BIM) in Construction

• Microsoft Office Foundations in Construction; and

• Power BI Fundamentals in Construction

Director Operations Institutes of Applied Technology Helen Fremlin encouraged women interested in a career in construction to take advantage of the free microcredentials and said they promote a practical learning journey.

“Whether you choose online or face-to-face, these microcredentials include regular educatorled sessions. These draw on industry specific examples, tasks, and case studies to give students the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills directly with the support of educators.

“Part of the eligibility process requires women to complete two microskill courses. Microskills are free, two-hour, self-directed sessions, a great way to

help get you started.”

CPB Contractors’ Rob Monaci added, “The introduction of these three new Microskills focused on women, sustainability and BIM are really exciting as not only are they critical to the future of our industry, but they are also compelling in attracting new entrants to the workforce who are passionate about the role diversity, sustainability and digital technology plays in building the game changing infrastructure projects set to roll out across our cities and regions,” said Mr Monaci.

Western Sydney University Interim Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Clare Pollock, said the suite of microskills and microcredential courses and scholarships will empower women in construction and will help to meet Australia’s

workforce needs.

“The University has a proud history of opening up educational opportunities for students including talented women in our region. These innovative microskills and microcredentials will help students upskill and take advantage of skilled job opportunities in the fast-growing construction sector,” said Professor Pollock.

“Western Sydney University is pleased to partner with TAFE NSW and CPB Contractors to co-develop and co-deliver courses that integrate research-led learning with advanced technical and industrybased skills while boosting diversity in the sector.”

Successful applicants will be offered a preclass connection session to meet other women and visit a construction site in Sydney.

TAFE NSW and Training Services NSW are also inviting young women in schools and parents across the state to register for a Girls in Trades virtual event on the 22nd of May. Participants will learn about different careers and study pathways for young women to consider in construction and non-traditional trades.

Analysts Forecast Delay in RBA Rate Cuts as Infation Exceeds Expectations

Australians may not see interest rate cuts until at least 2025 as new data reveals infation rates not cooling as quickly as anticipated.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reported on Wednesday that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 1% during the March quarter, surpassing the expectations of economists and the previous quarter’s rise of 0.6%.

While the annual infation rate has decreased to 3.6% from 4.1% in December 2023, remaining within the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) target range of 2% to 3%, experts warn that the path to lowering infation remains challenging. Factors such as a robust job market, impending

personal income tax cuts, and persistent high prices for services and essential goods could push back the timing of the RBA’s anticipated rate reductions.

The trimmed mean, the RBA’s preferred infation measure that excludes volatile price shifts, has only marginally decreased to 4% from 4.2% in the previous quarter, signalling less cooling than hoped. This development comes ahead of the RBA’s upcoming interest rate decision next month, where the focus will shift to its revised economic forecasts and potential adjustments in its infation target timeline. Cameron Kusher, Director of Economic Research at PropTrack, commented that the unexpected strength in

the quarterly infation fgure is likely to delay the frst rate cut to early 2025. Financial markets have adjusted expectations, accordingly, no longer anticipating a rate cut this year, infuenced by last week’s robust domestic job data and persistent high infation in the US.

Persistent Housing Pressures

The housing sector continues to be a signifcant driver of infation, with health, education, and food costs also contributing to price increases during the quarter. Michelle Marquardt, ABS Head of Prices Statistics, highlighted that rental infation is climbing at its fastest pace in 15 years due to low vacancy rates across major cities.

Further compounding the issue, new data from PropTrack shows that rents have increased by 9.1% over the past year, outpacing property price growth. According to Kusher, despite signs that rental growth may slow, a signifcant reduction or stabilization is unlikely in the near future. The combination of a decade-low in housing construction and fuctuating investor activity suggests that rental costs will continue to escalate above infation rates.

Economic and Housing Analyst Views

Despite the overall downward trend in annual infation, some economists caution that it is still premature for the RBA to consider rate reductions. The persistently high infation

result has led analysts at Westpac to postpone their rate cut forecast to November 2024, rather than September.

Luci Ellis, Westpac Chief Economist and former RBA assistant governor, expressed concern over the trimmed mean measure remaining at 4%. “Although headline infation has edged closer to the RBA’s target range, the underlying infation pressures suggest a more prolonged period of elevated rates,” Ellis noted.

Similarly, Tim Reardon, Chief Economist at the Housing Industry Association, described the 1% quarterly CPI increase as worrisome, indicating that high infation may become more entrenched in the

economy, driven by ongoing housing supply shortages.

HSBC Chief Economist Paul Bloxham remarked that while the peak in cash rates might have been reached, there remains a risk that the next adjustment could be an increase rather than a decrease. “The journey to sustainably achieve the mid-point of the RBA’s target band appears longer than anticipated,” Bloxham added.

This complex economic backdrop underscores the challenges facing the RBA as it navigates the delicate balance of fostering economic growth while managing infationary pressures.

Rising High-Income Renters Intensify Housing Affordability Crisis

The increasing presence of high-income earners in the rental market is intensifying competition for housing and exacerbating affordability issues, signalling deeprooted systemic problems in the housing sector. According to a study by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI), the proportion of higherincome households in the private rental market has signifcantly risen, from 8% in 1996 to 24% in 2021. Meanwhile, the number of lower-income renters has remained largely unchanged, underscoring the widening gap in housing accessibility. This trend has been driven by a worsening

in housing affordability, reaching its poorest state in over three decades, coupled with a long-term decline in homeownership rates. The PropTrack Housing Affordability Index reveals that a household earning the median income in Australia can currently afford only 13% of homes sold nationwide, with lowerincome earners virtually priced out of buying a home. This shift is partly due to escalating house prices and declining affordability, which delay homeownership and force more individuals into the rental market. Furthermore, census data highlights a decreasing trend in homeownership rates

across successive generations since the mid-20th century, with younger groups increasingly less likely to purchase homes as they age. This shift contributes to more people choosing or needing to rent for longer periods.

Rental markets have also experienced severe strains. PropTrack’s Rental Affordability Report indicates that renters faced the toughest market conditions in at least 17 years in 2023. Over the past four years, rental prices have surged by over 40% in both capital cities and regional areas since the onset of the pandemic. This rapid increase in rental costs has signifcantly outpaced household

income growth, leading to a higher proportion of income being required to cover rent.

Despite a slight easing in rental price growth this year, the increases remain substantial. As of March 2024, the national median advertised weekly rent rose by 9.1%, reaching $600. This increase was particularly pronounced in capital cities, where median rents climbed to $625 per week. For a median household earning $110,000 annually, only 30% of advertised rentals are affordable, based on spending 25% of pre-tax income on rent, with even lower percentages in more expensive markets like Sydney.

The scarcity of

affordable rentals is even more critical for lowerincome households, who fnd almost no affordable options in current listings. Higher-income renters, with more fnancial fexibility, often opt for more affordable rentals in competitive markets, thereby intensifying the pressure on lower-income renters seeking similar housing.

This phenomenon has not only affected urban areas but also smaller capitals and regional markets, where rental prices have skyrocketed since the pandemic began. The ability to work remotely has prompted many to relocate to less expensive areas, maintaining strong population growth in

these regions and further fuelling rent increases. Signifcant rent hikes have been particularly notable in Perth, with a 76% increase since the pandemic’s start, and in Brisbane and regional Queensland, where rents have risen by 50% and 55% respectively. This disproportionate growth in cheaper markets has drastically reduced the proportion of affordable rentals available, underscoring the urgent need for policy interventions to address housing affordability and ensure equitable access to housing across income levels.

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

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

BEEF CURRY PIES

30m prep 40 cook 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 small brown onion, fnely chopped

• 250g beef mince

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tsp curry powder

• 400g can lentils, rinsed, drained

• 165ml can coconut milk

• 4 sheets frozen puff pastry, just thawed

• 1 egg, lightly whisked

• 130g (1⁄2 cup) natural yoghurt

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint leaves

• Salad, to serve (optional)

METHOD

1. Heat the 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large deep frying pan over medium heat. Add the 1 small brown onion, fnely chopped. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until softened. Add the 250g beef mince. Cook, breaking up any lumps with a wooden spoon, for 5 minutes or until browned. Add the 1 tbsp tomato paste and 2 tsp curry powder. Cook, stirring, for 30 seconds or until aromatic.

2. Stir through the 400g can lentils, rinsed, drained and 165ml can coconut milk. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until liquid has reduced and thickened. Season. Transfer to a bowl and set aside to cool completely.

3. Preheat oven to 220°C/200°C fan forced. Line a large baking tray with baking paper.

4. Use a 15cm-diameter bowl as a guide to cut 2 discs from each pastry sheet, using 4 sheets frozen puff pastry, just thawed scraps to create full circles. Press to join.

5. Lay out the 4 pastry discs with the joins. Divide the flling among discs, mounding slightly and leaving a 2cm border. Place the remaining pastry discs on top. Crimp edges to seal and transfer to prepared tray. Use a small knife to score the top of the pastry to decorate. Brush with 1 egg, lightly whisked. Bake for 20 minutes or until puffed and golden.

6. Place the 130g (1⁄2 cup) natural yoghurt and 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint leaves in a small bowl and stir until combined. Serve the pies with the minted yoghurt and Salad, to serve (optional), if using.

INGREDIENTS

• 500g beef sirloin steaks

• 3 tbsp butter

• 250g button mushrooms, halved

• 1 French shallot, peeled, fnely chopped

• 2 1/2 tsp curry powder

• 1 tsp sweet paprika

• 250ml (1 cup) Massel Beef Style Liquid Stock

• 400g can coconut milk

• 400g dried spiral pasta

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh continental parsley

METHOD

1. Season the 500g beef sirloin steaks with salt. Heat 1 tbsp butter in a large deep frying pan over high heat. Cook the steaks for 2-3 minutes each side or until cooked to your liking. Transfer to a plate and set aside to rest until required.

2. Melt 1 tbsp remaining butter in the pan until foaming. Add the 250g button mushrooms,

SLOW COOKER TERIYAKI BEEF

10m prep 8h cook 8 servings

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1.5kg piece blade or topside beef

• 250ml (1 cup) Massel beef style liquid stock

• 80ml (1/3 cup) light soy sauce

• 60ml (1/4 cup) mirin seasoning

• 60ml (1/4 cup) cooking sake

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 2 tsp fnely grated fresh ginger

• Toasted sesame seeds, to serve

• Sliced green shallots, to serve

METHOD

1. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook, turning often, for 10 minutes or until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.

2. Place the stock, soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, garlic and ginger in a jug. Stir to dissolve the sugar. Pour over the beef. Cover and cook on Low, turning the meat occasionally, for 8 hours or until very tender.

3. Transfer the beef to a large plate. Use 2 forks to coarsely shred. Return the beef to the slow cooker to cover in sauce. Divide beef among serving plates. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and shallots. Serve with sliced chilli and rice.

halved and cook, without stirring, for 2 minutes. Stir. Cook for a further 2 minutes or until the mushrooms are golden and liquid has evaporated. Add the remaining butter, 1 French shallot, peeled, fnely chopped, 2 1/2 tsp curry powder and 1 tsp sweet paprika. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute or until aromatic. Add the 250ml (1 cup) Massel Beef Style Liquid Stock. Bring to a simmer. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.

3. Reduce heat to medium. Add 400g can coconut milk. Bring to a simmer. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until mixture thickens.

4. Meanwhile, cook the 400g dried spiral pasta in a large saucepan of salted boiling water following packet directions or until al dente. Drain.

5. Thinly slice the steak. Return to the pan with any juices. Toss to combine. Season. Divide the pasta among serving bowls. Top with the stroganoff and sprinkle with 1 tbsp chopped fresh continental parsley to serve.

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO GREENHOUSES

For many gardeners, a greenhouse is a transformative addition to their gardening practice, providing a controlled environment that can signifcantly extend the growing season and offer a sanctuary for tender plants. Whether you’re a novice looking for basic guidance or an experienced gardener aiming to optimize your space, understanding how to effectively use a greenhouse is key.

Why Invest in a Greenhouse?

A greenhouse offers numerous benefts that make it a worthwhile investment for any gardener:

• Extended Growing Season: Most notably, a greenhouse allows you to start your growing season earlier and extend it later into the fall. This

is especially valuable in cooler climates where frost can limit outdoor growing options.

• Protection from Elements: Your plants are shielded from severe weather conditions such as heavy rains, strong winds, and hail. Additionally, it provides a barrier against pests and roaming animals.

• Versatility in Planting: Greenhouses enable the cultivation of plants that wouldn’t typically thrive in your local climate, including exotic fruits, fowers, and specialized crops.

Choosing the Right Greenhouse

Selecting the right greenhouse depends on your needs, budget, and available space:

• Lean-to Greehouses: Attached to a side of your house, these are great for space-saving

and utilize the heat from your home, reducing energy costs.

• Freestanding Greenhouses: These structures stand alone and can be built in various sizes. They provide fexibility in terms of location and usually have better light exposure.

• Cold Frames: Smaller than traditional greenhouses, cold frames are a good option for beginners looking to protect a few plants from frost.

Materials Matter

The materials used in constructing a greenhouse directly affect its effciency and durability:

• Glass: Traditional and aesthetically pleasing, glass greenhouses offer excellent light transmission but can be expensive and fragile.

• Polycarbonate: This is a more durable and insulating option than glass, though it may yellow over time, reducing light transmission.

• Plastic Film: An economical choice, plastic flm is easy to replace but needs to be changed every few years due to wear and tear.

What to Grow in Your Greenhouse

The beauty of a greenhouse is that it can support a wide range of plants. Here are some categories to consider:

• Vegetables: Tomatoes, capsicums, cucumbers, and leafy greens thrive in the stable conditions a greenhouse provides.

• Herbs: Basil, chives, parsley, and thyme can be grown year-round in a greenhouse environment.

• Flowers: Start annuals like marigolds

and petunias early or grow tropical fowers like orchids.

Optimizing Your Greenhouse Setup

To get the most out of your greenhouse, consider these tips:

• Temperature Control: Install a thermometer to monitor the inside temperature. Ventilation is crucial; automatic vent openers can be a useful investment.

• Humidity Management: Too much humidity can lead to mould and plant diseases. Ensure adequate air circulation with fans and keep the soil well-drained.

• Shelving and Layout: Maximize space by using shelving units. Plan your layout by placing taller plants at the back and smaller ones in front.

Greenhouse

Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance is key to a successful greenhouse:

• Cleaning: Clear gutters and ensure downspouts are free from debris. Wash the interior and exterior of the greenhouse to maximize light.

• Check for Damage: Regularly inspect for any structural damages or tears in the covering and repair them promptly to maintain an optimal environment.

• Pest Control: Keep an eye out for pests and manage them using

natural methods, such as introducing benefcial insects or using organic pesticides.

Seasonal Considerations

• Spring: Start seedlings early and prepare for transplanting as the weather warms.

• Summer: Focus on ventilating the greenhouse to prevent overheating and shade plants if necessary.

• Autumn: Begin to winterise the greenhouse by installing heaters if needed and planning for cold-tolerant crops.

• Winter: Use the greenhouse to protect perennials and to start vegetables early for a spring harvest.

Conclusion

A greenhouse can be a delightful and productive extension of your gardening hobby. It not only enhances your plant-growing capabilities but also provides a peaceful retreat.

With proper planning and maintenance, a greenhouse can transform your gardening experience, yielding abundant harvests and beautiful blooms regardless of the whims of the weather outside. Whether for pleasure or practicality, the investment in a greenhouse continues to enrich the lives of gardeners around the world.

Funeral Notice

Passed away peacefully, in the care of his loving family, at St. Andrew’s Age Care, Ballina, aged 89 years. Loved husband of Daphne for 65 years.

Adored father & father in-law of Lisa & Sergio, and Andrew & Alyson.

Cherished granddad “Max” to his grandchildren Taylor, Chloe, and Lucy.

Loved twin brother of Brian and brother of Gary and Neil, and their partners.

Loved by the extended Sidney and Toovey families.

Family & Friends are invited to attend the memorial service to celebrate the life of Max, to be held at, e Ballina Surf Club, Compton Drive, East Ballina, In the “Club Room” on the ground oor, Friday 10th May 2024 commencing at 2:30 PM.

In loving memory of Colleen Farrugia (neé Dingli)... Late of East Lismore. Formerly of Federal and Rooty Hill. Passed away peacefully aged 85 years. Former Wife of Joseph Michael Farrugia. Much loved Mother and Mother-In-Law of Louise, Joseph(dec), Je ery & Kate, Anthony and Greg & Peta.

Cherished Grandmother of Jake, Grace, Brooke and Samuel.

Loved Sister of Paul, Mary, George, Charlie, Tony, Carmen and John, and all their families.

A very special thankyou to the wonderful sta at St Joseph’s Nursing Home, East Lismore.

Forever In Our Hearts

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Colleen’s Funeral Service to be held at e Wilson Chapel - Parkview Funeral Home, Goonellabah on Friday 10th May, commencing at 11:30am.

A er the service, the cortege will leave for the Lismore Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Friday, 10th May 2024 10:00AM AEST

50 Brahman X Steers

30 Angus Steers 15-18 Months

22 Droughtmaster Steers 15-18 Months Old

150 Angus X Weaner Steers

100 Charolais X Weaner Steers

30 Charbray Weaner Steers

100 Simmental X Weaner Steers

30 Santa Hereford Weaner Steers

100 Brahman X Weaner Steers

50 Brangus X Weaner Steers

100 Hereford X Weaner Steers

30 Charolais X Weaner Heifers

50 Angus X Weaner Heifers

50 Polled Hereford Weaner Heifers

15 Santa Hereford Weaner Heifers

20 Brangus X Weaner Heifers

30 Simmental X Weaner Heifers

4 F1 Heifers Unjoined

5 Droughtmaster Heifers 12-15 Months Old

5 Angus Heifers Unjoined

6 Speckle/ Brahman X Cows PTIC

20 Brahman X Cows & Calves

20 Hereford X Cows & Calves

5 Angus Cows PTIC

Special Lines:

A/c GV & GL Farrell - Kiel Vale

37 Santa Hereford Weaners - Mixed Sex

A/c DT & RL Amos - EU Acc’ - Old Bonalbo

40 F1 Hereford Brahman Weaner Steers

A/c I K Burley - Woodenbong

40 Polled Hereford Weaner Heifers - Remolea Poll Hereford Blood

A/c MKR Family Partnership

70 Simmental X Weaners

WEATHER

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. High chance of showers. Winds southerly 15 to 25 km/h tending southeasterly during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Light winds becoming south to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers on and east of the ranges, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Winds east to southeasterly 20 to 30 km/h.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers on and east of the ranges, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Winds easterly 20 to 30 km/h.

New South Wales:

Scattered showers along the coast and adjacent ranges. Chance of a shower in the far west. Fine elsewhere. Daytime temperatures slightly above average in the south and west, near average elsewhere. Southeasterly winds along the coast tending easterly west of the ranges.

Thursday. Scattered showers along the coast and adjacent ranges. Chance of showers in the far northwest. Fine elsewhere. Daytime temperatures slightly above average in the south and west, near average elsewhere. Southeasterly winds along the coast tending easterly west of the ranges.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Southeasterly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres. Swell: Southeasterly 2 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 90% chance of showers.

Coffs Coast: Winds: Southeasterly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres. Swell: Southeasterly 2 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 90% chance of showers.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Southeasterly 15 to 25 knots. Seas: 1 to 2 metres. Swell: Southeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres inshore, increasing to 1.5 to 2 metres offshore. Weather: Partly cloudy. 80% chance of showers.

The Woolgoolga Wildcats kicked off Female Football Week with an impressive 3-0 victory over Sawtell in the HIT105.5 North Coast Premier League at the Coffs Coast Synthetics.

The Woolgoolga Wildcats set the tone for Female Football Week with a commanding 3-0 triumph over Sawtell in the HIT105.5 North Coast Premier League at the Coffs Coast Synthetics.

The match began with a poignant moment as players from both teams participated in a ceremonial walkout and observed a minute’s silence (videoclips 0999 and 1017) in memory of Kye Schaefer, who was tragically lost after a

NEWS

BALLINA MAHJONG RESULTS 03-05-2024

Jeanette Henwood 1. Ronda Taylor 2, Jan Small 3, Wendy Thornton 4, Shirley Atkinson 5, Shirley Coleman 6, Coral Lavelle 7, Lorna Simpson 8, Pauline Kearney 9, Kathy Pickles, Pam Farrell 10, Val Heinritz 12, Barbara Ellan 13, Linda Lloyd 14, Lisa Wong 15, Joy Lowien 15, Vanessa Reynolds 17, Kath Hubbard 18, Janene Jarvis 19, Susan Allan 20, Gail McDonagh 21, Jan Boardman 22, Yvonne Weddup 23,

fatal stabbing following a surf session at Park Beach

Chloe Webb ignited the Wildcats’ offensive prowess, breaking the deadlock just six minutes into the game. Displaying impressive teamwork, the Wildcats orchestrated a seamless transition from defence, with speedster Webb expertly slotting the ball past the helpless goalkeeper (video clip reference 1093).

In a stroke of fortune for the Wildcats, they doubled their advantage courtesy of an own goal in the 12th minute, further asserting their dominance on the feld.

The Wildcats then put the game beyond doubt with another clinical fnish in the 86th minute, sealing their well-deserved victory.

Surfng Australia is thrilled to announce the return of the Seas

The Day festival, the world’s largest female participation surf event, set for June 22-23, 2024, at Kingscliff Beach, NSW. Following a record-breaking debut last year with over 12,000 attendees, the festival continues to celebrate and empower women in the surfng community.

The event spans two days packed with activities, from surfng competitions across various divisions to educational workshops and engaging talks by leading fgures in the industry. This year, the festival will include three themed hubs focusing on Women of Surf, Wellness, and Film & Photography, providing a platform for insightful discussions and networking.

Event Highlights Include:

• Competitions: Open to female surfers of all ages and skill levels, including the Open Women’s Shortboard, Open Women’s Longboard, Under 18 Shortboard, and the highly popular Under 12 Mini Shredders division.

• Guest Speakers and Workshops: Featuring infuential fgures such as seven-time World Champion Layne Beachley and the 8x World Champion Steph Gilmore’s mother, Tracy Gilmore. Topics will cover a range of subjects from sports psychology to professional growth in surfng.

• Entertainment and Wellness Activities: Attendees can enjoy live music, yoga sessions, breath work workshops, ice baths, and a variety of food trucks providing local cuisine.

• Film and Photography Hub: This new addition will showcase the works of female producers and creators in the industry, including the premiere of ‘Belinda’ by professional longboarder Belinda Baggs and a session on women’s health and nutrition by Alicia Edge, the performance dietitian for the Matildas.

• Support and Sponsorship: The festival is supported by signifcant contributions from the NSW Government, Tweed Shire Council, and various corporate sponsors, highlighting the community and governmental support for enhancing women’s roles in sports.

Chris Mater, CEO of Surfng Australia, expressed his enthusiasm for the event’s second iteration, noting, “We aim to inspire more girls

and women to embrace surfng. This festival not only celebrates their achievements but also provides a supportive community for all attendees to share their passion for the ocean.”

Emily Suvaal MLC, Labor spokesperson for Tweed, praised the event’s positive impact on local tourism and community cohesion, “Seas The Day not only highlights the talent and spirit of female surfers but also signifcantly boosts the local economy by attracting visitors to our beautiful region.”

For more details about the Seas The Day festival and to purchase tickets, please visit seasthedaysurffestival. com. Join us in Kingscliff for a celebration of women in surfng, flled with competition, education, and community engagement.

Lynda Lovett, Valda Mclerie 24, Jane Fenech 26, Susan Scott 27, Cindy Smith 28, Jenny Lang 29, Pauline Bolte 30, Jan Henley 31.

Friday at 12:30pm at the Ballina Bridge Club North Creek Road. Enquiries for new players phone Shirley on 0423384647.

CASINO SOCIAL GOLF RESULTS

05-05-2024

No social golf was played last Sunday due to the course closure and next Sunday’s event sponsored by Just Brakes And Exhaust

Casino will be a four person ambos for the Richard Hempstead Memorial trophy and it will be played at the Grafton course.

CHERRY STREET

CROQUET CLUB SPORTS RESULTS ASSOCIATION

CROQUET :

P.Waters 13 d S.Hume

P.Hume 6

R.Chapman P.Hume 11

d S.Hume P.Waters 9

RICOCHET

CROQUET : N.Barnes M.Russell 18

d P Bolte P.Scott 8

J.Hannigan 13 d

N.Watts J.Doust 12

B.Wellings D.Scott 10 d R.Poynting

N.Poynting 8

R.Allen 17 d M.Field 14

J.Bate D.Scott 12 d

R.Poynting N.Barnes 8 J Hannigan 12 d A.Mangan 11

R.Poynting N.Poynting 14 d M.Field P.Scott 12

P.Bolte 12 d J.Doust

M.Russell 12

PENNANTS : Cherry Street 6 d Alstonville 4

Byron Bay 7 d Lismore 3

Casino 7 d Ballina 3

Croquet for Juniors

Tuesday afternoons 4pm / 5pm. All welcome.

Robyn Poynting 0414700512

CORAKI VETERANS GOLF RESULTS

THURSDAY 2/5/24

May monthly medal winner T Patch, vets winner S Toms2nd A Ganter, 3rd G Tait chicken/ball winners I Welsch, M Fairfull, J Lassig, W Celic, R Earnshaw. Nearest pins 3rd/12th J Lassig, 6th/15th J Lassig. Putting comp G Tait.

This Thursday will be an 18-hole single stableford commencing with a shot gun start at 8.30am

AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING

EVANS HEAD WOMENS BOWLS Minor Singles ChampionshipSemi-Final played 24-04-24 - A. Eyles defeated P. Fuller. K. Townsend defeated E. Gollan Final played 2604-24 - Winner - A. Eyles , Runner/up - K. Townsend. Congratulations to Winner & Runner/ up & all the Bowlers who competed in this Championship game.

Surfng Australia launches 2024 Seas The Day.

Credit: Hannah Jessup / Surfng Australia

Lismore is gearing up to become the focal point of women’s baseball as it hosts two premier events at the Albert Park Baseball and Softball Complex from May 9-12. The city will welcome top international talent for the Australian Women’s Baseball Showcase and the Australian Little League Girls Division Championships.

The events will feature notable teams such as the Adelaide Giants, Brisbane Bandits, and Victorian Aces, alongside stars from the Emeralds and World Cup players from Canada, Japan, and the United States. This convergence of elite and emerging talent underscores the signifcance of these competitions on both a national and global scale.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg expressed enthusiasm about the city’s role as hosts, highlighting the economic and social benefts expected from

the tournament. “The remarkable standard of our facilities at Albert Park not only benefts local athletes but also positions Lismore as a prime location for hosting international sports events,” Mayor Krieg said. He also pointed out that the event is projected to generate signifcant revenue for the local economy, estimated at $435,172.

The schedule will

accommodate the Little League games in the morning, featuring competitors under 13, followed by professional matches in the evening. This format not only maximizes the use of the upgraded facilities but also enhances spectator engagement throughout the day.

Baseball Australia

CEO Glenn Williams commented on the progression of women’s

baseball in Australia, saying, “With each edition of the Australian Women’s Baseball Showcase, we see the bar raised higher, and this year’s lineup promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in women’s sports.”

The support from the New South Wales Government has been pivotal in bringing these events to Lismore, as noted by Minister for

Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty. “Supporting such events aligns with our commitment to enhance female participation in sports and bring communities together,” Moriarty stated.

Janelle Saffn, State Member for Lismore, also remarked on the signifcance of these events for the region. “Hosting these championships not only showcases Lismore’s top-tier sporting infrastructure but also ignites passion and engagement in baseball across rural and regional Australia,” she said.

The 2024 edition of these events builds on the successes of previous tournaments held in Adelaide and Geelong, spreading the excitement of women’s baseball across the country. All games from the upcoming tournaments will be broadcast globally via Baseball+, ensuring fans worldwide can partake in the action. For more information on game schedules and tickets, visitors are encouraged to explore the local offerings of Lismore, from its vibrant culinary scene to its unique art galleries and trendy establishments, further enhancing their experience of this international sporting spectacle.

Albert Park Baseball and Softball complex

By Tim Howard

The South Grafton Rebels have bounced back from two frst-up losses to hand the Coffs Harbour Comets a seventries to three thrashing at McKittrick Park on Sunday.

The scoreline fattered the visitors as the home team bombed at least three more tries with poor last-pass options.

The game was a catch up game from round 2 which was washed out due to a waterlogged ground.

It was a comfortable, 36-18 win for the Rebels who dominated most of the 80 minutes.

The Rebels were on the board after two minutes when centre Tyler Roberts crashed over in the corner.

Dummy half Todd Cameron timed his pass perfectly to the big centre, who ran hard onto the ball and executed a text book fend to shrug off a would-be tackler and dive over.

His centre partner Nick McGrady added the extras with a conversion from near the sideline to give the Rebels the perfect start to the game. From the outset the Rebels forwards made easy metres through the Coffs pack.

Veteran Grant Stevens, who has switched from the back row to prop this season, was dynamic, charging into the ruck, making big inroads every time and handing off a couple of deft offoads.

Coffs were next to score in the 16th minute after the Rebels gifted possession to them attempting a frst tackle offoad.

The Comets spread

the ball to the right and second rower Justin Hull put in a deft grubber which found winger Buddy Craigie who headed for the corner.

Fullback Boehme held him up but Craigie slipped a pass inside to centre Ronan Singleton, who touched down in the corner.

Nathan Curry missed the conversion.

One on one strips became the play of the next few minutes with Coffs second rower Peter Uikelotu picking the Rebels pockets twice in a few minutes.

But Coffs did little with the gift of possession and it was the Rebels whop scored soon after a dynamic surge from Stevens carried the ball

30m up feld.

With the defence in trouble fve-eighth Hugh Stanley spotted the Coffs defence short on the left side.

He passed to Boehme, who drew the winger and his short pass gave Jamal Laurie a stroll to the line.

The Rebels hammered the Coffs line and were rewarded with a second try to Laurie about 10 minutes from half time.

Second rower Conrad Lardner snapped up a risky offoad from Uikelotu and delivered an overhand basketball pass to Laurie, who ran around under the posts to score.

South Grafton could have scored again when they pressed the line for two sets after the referee pinged the Coffs defence for a couple of high shots.

The half ended on a sour note with Stanley sin-binned for a late tackle just before the siren.

right corner of the feld. Running the ball one out from their line, McGrady executed a one-on-one strip which handed the Rebels possession a few metres out.

McGrady popped into dummy half on the next play, threw a pass to Tyler Roberts who crashed over. Cameron took over the kicking duties but missed the kick as the Rebels surged to a 20-6 lead.

The Rebels blew a chance to widen the gap minutes later after Stevens charged down a clearing kick and toed the ball ahead.

The ball bounced for the fullback Damion Dumas, who was able to bat the ball across the dead ball line.

South Grafton were almost in again a few minutes later carrying the ball upfeld with a series of short passes.

and short pass to centre

Marty Ferguson allowed him to crash over the line. Curry converted and Coffs closed the gap to 20-10.

Coffs were in again soon after when Boehme, who had a horror day under the high ball, dropped a kick near the sideline.

A few plays later the back-pedalling Rebels defence allowed Comets fullback Damion Dumas to step around and brush off at least four tackles to score near the posts.

The conversion narrowed the score to 20-18 and it looked like game on.

Instead the Rebels found another gear.

They were unlucky not to get a try when a player grounded the ball against the posts, but the ref ruled a knock on.

more tries and were unlucky not to have a third after the siren. McGrady scored with eight minutes left on the clock when Coffs defenders seemed reluctant to dive on a loose ball he had grubbered over the tryline.

He didn’t hesitate and dived on the bouncing ball to score the matchsealer.

Young reserve Kalyn Squires put the icing on the cake with a couple of minutes to go, strolling through some fimsy defence to score near the posts. Cameron potted the conversion to make 36-18.

The Rebels would have been delighted with the performance of the forward pack, with Stevens the standout.

His front row partner Bailey Sinclair made some big plays, but like many, found it hard to match Stevens’ work rate.

Lock Richard Roberts was not far behind and his back row partners Brian Quinlin Randall and Conrad Lardner did plenty in attack and defence.

At the back Boehme will need to do some work defusing bombs. The Coffs kickers let him off lightly after he dropped two and let another bounce.

To his credit he did not let that affect other aspects of his game and he ran the ball strongly and tackled effectively.

Centre Tyler Roberts had a big games scoring a couple of tries and defending strongly and his partner McGrady made the most of his opportunities.

Rebels skipper Stevens remonstrated with the referee there was nothing dangerous in the tackle but to no avail.

Curry kicked the penalty goal to send the teams to the break with the score 16-6 in favour of the Rebels.

The Rebels began the second half in similar fashion to the frst.

Cameron put in a brilliant kick into the

Winger Damon Kirby spilled the ball just short of the line, letting the visitor of the hook for the second time in fve minutes.

Encouraged by their escapes, the next 10 minutes were all Coffs Harbour.

They regained possession from a short drop out and carried the ball upfeld.

A surging run from Uikelotu carried the ball close to the line

But the Rebels were in minutes later, capitalising on a good break downfeld.

They swung the ball to the right and McGrady put up a beautifully weighted kick on the goal line.

The Coffs winger knocked it into the arms of Richard Roberts, who dived over to score. Cameron took over kicking duties, but missed to the left with this attempt.

The Rebels sealed the deal in the fnal 10 minutes scoring two

Out wide Jamal Laurie’s pace and positional play will create havoc for most teams. He picked up two tries on Sunday making sure he was in position to take the fnal pass.

SCORES

South Grafton 36 (Tries: Tyler Roberts 2, Jamal Laurie 2, Richard Roberts, Nick McGrady, Kalyn Squires. Goals: Nick McGrady 1, Todd Cameron 3) def Coffs Harbour 18. (Tries: Marty Ferguson, Ronan Singleton, Damion Dumas. Goals: Nathan Curry 2).

Rebels stalwart Grant Stevens has taken to the front row role like a duck to water. His powerful surges with the ball were a threat to the Coffs defence every time he touched the ball. Photo: Gary Nichols.

REBELS HAMMER COMETS