The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 202

North Coast flood plain probe cut short

Northern Rivers Koala Hospital needs funding: Urgent appeal for support

Three year old Quinn Goodear and mum Greta Stanfeld ready for the Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular photo Lyle Radford

By Tim Howard Story P2

By Sarah Waters Story P10

North Coast food plain probe cut short

By Tim Howard

Northern Rivers residents will miss out on an opportunity to quiz members of a NSW Parliamentary committee investigating laws relating to food plain development when it visit later this month.

The Portfolio Committee 7 headed by North Coast-based Greens MLC Sue Higginson, has toured the South Coast and Sydney areas where residents have been able to make submissions and committee members have conducted site visits of key areas.

The committee was scheduled to begin a similar tour of North Coast regions from Port Macquarie to Tweed later this month, but at the last minute the tour has been cut back to just two days, in which committee members will conduct site visits.

Yamba residents group Yamba Community Action Network was disappointed to learn of the decision.

“Originally, the committee was to conduct hearings and 12 sites visits in the NSW mid-north and north coast region,” a spokesperson said.

“However the days for undertaking site visits has been limited to two days and it appears only fve site visits will be conducted in the mid-north and north coast area.

“It appears the committee will now be

undertaking site visits at South West Rocks, Yamba, Maclean, Evans Head and Brunswick Heads.”

The site visits in Yamba and Maclean will occur on the morning of May 31.

Ms Higginson said it was disappointing the committee visit had been cut short.

“The fact that Mid and North Coast communities will not have an opportunity to have hearings in their towns is not equitable,” she said.

“Our ideal outcome would have allowed for site visits and hearings across four days, but we have been limited to covering every community north of Port Macquarie in just two days,”

“The visits could be described as ‘high level’ as they will give committee members a general understanding of the developments that communities are struggling against,”

But Ms Higginson said the community could still have valuable input into the committee’s knowledge base by submitting document packets to the committee.

“Document packets that demonstrate the risks or history of the site are very valuable,” she said.

“These could include photos taken during high fain fall events or evidence of threatened environmental features.

“The evidence provided to the committee will be used in the preparation

of the committee report and recommendations to the government.”

Residents can attend the site visits, but would need to understand they are not designed for contact with committee members.

“The committee has invited specifc groups that have either made submissions or have contacted the committee,” Ms Higginson said.

“It is ultimately up to the groups invited who they bring on the site visits.

People with good knowledge and varied perspectives should be considered.

“The site visits are not intended for the general community, but the committee cannot prevent people from

attending at the same time.”

She said the information gathered would be part of an interim report in August that will make recommendations to the government based on evidence in submissions, hearings and site visits.

“We have already heard and received some excellent evidence demonstrating how the planning system is and isn’t working for communities, the natural environment and addressing the impacts of climate change,” Ms Higginson said.

Yamba CAN Inc members were concerned the visit to the Clarence had been cut short as it had just been revealed in the NSW State Disaster Mitigation Plan 2024-

2026 that the Valley had the highest food risk.

“Surely this triggers the necessity for the committee to provide hearings in the midnorth and north coast regions of NSW,” the spokesperson said.

“The Minister for Planning and Open Spaces, Paul Scully headed the decision to “scrap” rezoning plans for suburbs in western Sydney, including Marsden Park North and parts of West Schofelds, which were due to be developed with more than 10,000 homes.

“Plans for the new Riverstone Town Centre will also no longer go ahead.”

YambaCAN was concerned similar issues for areas that affected them would be ignored.

“We ask, when do residents lives and livelihoods matter on the North Coast of NSW,” the spokesperson said.

“Will council and the State Government continue to allow developments that detrimentally impact existing residents with the ongoing fll of the foodplain, to the extent of potentially risking the safe and effcient evacuation of people, risking lives in the process?

“Will existing homes and the homes in the already approved developments be able to obtain house insurance?

“Will the council continue to approve development on the Yamba foodplain?”

Supermarket Loyalty Programs Seen as Unfair by Consumers, CHOICE Survey Finds

According to new research from CHOICE, an overwhelming majority of consumers believe it is unfair for supermarkets to charge higher prices to customers who are not members of their loyalty programs. The survey, which included responses from over 8,000 CHOICE supporters, revealed that 4 in 5 respondents view member-only pricing schemes as inequitable. This sentiment is particularly pronounced during Privacy Awareness Week (6-12 May), which

this year promotes the theme ‘power up your privacy.’ The fndings highlight consumer discomfort not only with the cost implications of loyalty schemes but also with the privacy implications associated with the extensive data collection practices involved.

Raf Alam, CHOICE Senior Campaigns and Policy Advisor, criticized the practices of the supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths.

“While these companies promote the benefts of

their loyalty programs, our research suggests that loyalty doesn’t always pay off. It’s discriminatory to force consumers to exchange their personal data for discounts, especially on essential items,” Alam stated.

The survey also found that nearly half of the respondents are concerned about how their data is handled, noting that information gathered through loyalty programs is often shared beyond the supermarkets themselves,

encompassing sectors like insurance, credit cards, and other subsidiary businesses.

In response to these fndings, CHOICE is calling on the Federal Attorney-General to strengthen the Privacy Act to enforce fairer use of consumer data by businesses. Additionally, CHOICE advocates for the prohibition of member-only pricing on essential grocery items to ensure that all consumers can access necessary goods without compromising their privacy.

Alam emphasized the broader implications of these practices, stating, “It’s crucial that businesses face stronger obligations to prevent consumers from having to compromise their privacy for affordability. The necessity to protect personal information should not prevent anyone from accessing their basic needs.”

For more insights and details on the survey, visit CHOICE’s website

Greens MLC Sue Higginson shares the disappointment of North Coast residents that they won’t have a chance to make submissions to the Portfolio Committee 7 when it visits later this month.

Mayor and MP continue fght for ferry

By Tim Howard

The NSW Government needs to overturn its decision to decommission the Ulmarra Ferry says Clarence Valley mayor Peter Johnstone.

Cr Johnstone said a motion urging the government to abandon its plan to end the 130-year-old service on June 10 would come to next week’s Clarence Valley Council.

Cr Johnstone also revealed the full letter he received from the NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, giving her reasons for the closure.

The mayor said he’d met the minister shortly before the announcement of the closure was released.

“She was really well informed about the closure, so it was obviously something that had been in the works for a long time,” he said.

“Her arguments were very similar to those presented by Transport for NSW when it announced the ferry would be decommissioned.

Cr Johnstone said it was very disappointing the needs of a local community had been ignored, a view also shared by Clarence MP Richie Williamson.

Last week Mr Williamson took a petition signed by 6000 Clarence residents against the NSW Government’s

shocking choice to sink the Ulmarra to Southgate ferry service into NSW Parliament.

He said the arguments in the petition should

be enough for the government to reverse the decision, told the NSW Legislative Assembly on Wednesday.

“When the Government drove the last nail into the coffn by axing the Ulmarra Ferry service that had served the community for 100 years, I can only imagine the letdown, the disappointment, the disengagement and the sheer disbelief, just to save a few dollars, whilst those in the metropolitan area continue to have their transport subsidised by the public purse,” Mr Williamson said.

He revealed that in addition to the 6000-strong signature petition, he had received countless written messages from localsall against Labor’s cost cutting.

These messages included statement like these.

“Our business operates a logging and sawmilling business in the Ulmarra area, and this ferry service is absolutely essential for us to be able to continue with our business,” a local family frm wrote.

A man called Bill

wrote “In these times of escalating costs and high petrol prices, we deserve a trip that now takes us four kilometres. That is compared to the 62 kilometres the new trip would take.”

“Losing this vital piece of infrastructure will destroy our tiny community,” Shelley wrote.

Bobbie wrote, “I write in support of your petition, Mr Williamson. It is unfair that regional residents have to pay just to get to work—an extra 64 kilometres for me in my round trip.”

Mr Williamson said he was surprised at government boasts that the Labor Party represents the bush and the country.

“Where I come from, that is not the community sentiment,” he said.

“They are disappointed in the decision that has taken place and hurt by the lack of community consultation. They are urging the Minister, as I am, to reconsider her decision,” Mr Williamson said.

“The community of Ulmarra and Southgate feel bitterly let down by the Government.”

The Member for Clarence Richie Williamson in NSW Parliament with petitions containing 6000 signatures, to save the Ulmarra Ferry, which will be decommissioned on June 10.

Regional NSW’s Biggest Hospital Move Successfully Completed

By Sarah Waters

The new Tweed Valley Hospital in Cudgen is in full swing following the biggest hospital move in regional NSW history.

More than 120 patients were safely transferred by NSW Ambulance, and private patient transfer companies, last Tuesday, from the now closed Tweed Hospital on Powell Street in Tweed Heads.

Northern NSW Local Health District’s Director Clinical Operations

Lynne Weir said the transition to the

new facility was the culmination of more than 12 months of logistical planning, while the project itself had been more than six years in the making.

“This is a momentous milestone for everyone involved in the project, and of course for our patients, staff and the wider community,” Ms Weir said.

“The level of collaboration, expertise and engagement which has brought us to this point is simply outstanding.

“We are looking

forward to a bright future delivering the excellent healthcare we’re known for, in our brand-new health facility,” she said.

facility.

These services include emergency, trauma and

The Tweed Valley Hospital’s new telephone number is: 02 6677 2000.

Tweed Valley Hospital is now the major referral and teaching hospital in the Tweed-Byron region. It will provide a wide range of inpatient, day only and outpatient services in the brand new, state of the art

critical care, surgical services, cancer services, women’s care and newborn services, paediatric services, renal unit, intensive care, cardiac catheter laboratory and mental health.

Meanwhile, A range of community-based

and outreach health services will continue to be delivered on the old Tweed Hospital site in Tweed Heads.

The Tweed Heads Community Health Centre (THCHC) will be established, and will initially provide services such as wound clinics, women’s health services, stomal therapy, Child and Family services, Needle and Syringe Program counselling, Alcohol and Other Drug counselling and some antenatal services.

Additional communitybased services may also

be offered from the site in the future.

In the short term, services will continue to be provided from the exiting Community Health building - level 2 administration block, accessed from Florence Street.

BreastScreen NSW services will continue to be delivered from the current location at Powell Street.

For more information please visit: nnswlhd. health.nsw.gov.au

Byron Community Centre Celebrates Volunteers and Calls for More During National Volunteer

In celebration of National Volunteer Week, the Byron Community Centre recognizes its invaluable volunteers and invites more community members to join.

National Volunteer Week (NVW) 2024, held from May 20th to 26th, is Australia’s largest

annual celebration of volunteering. This year’s theme, ‘Something for Everyone,’ highlights the diverse talents volunteers bring to our community.

Over 200 volunteers currently contribute at the Byron Community Centre, impacting many lives. “We’ve seen a

dramatic increase in people accessing our services, especially at Fletcher Street

Cottage,” says Volunteer Coordinator Cath Levins-Byres. “More volunteers will help us provide consistent support.”

Since 2022, volunteers have dedicated over

1,140 hours to the Fletcher Street Cottage breakfast, showers, and laundry service, and over 3,653 hours to the Byron Community Centre, Byron Theatre, and Byron Markets.

“Volunteers are the backbone of our organization,” Cath continues. “Their

Week 2024

dedication ensures we can provide vital services.”

The Byron Community Centre offers various volunteer opportunities:

• Reception and Administration

• Marketing and PR

• Fletcher Street

Cottage

• Byron Theatre “Volunteering here is about being part of a vibrant and supportive community,” shares Stacy, a breakfast volunteer. Apply to volunteer and make a difference today at Byron Community Centre.

Long Awaited: The new Tweed Valley Hospital in Cudgen is now open

Historic ArrivalFirst Baby Born at new Tweed Valley Hospital

By Sarah Waters

On the day that marked a new era for healthcare in the Northern Rivers, a Tweed Shire family welcomed their newest family member into the world.

Last Tuesday, May 14, at 8.53pm, Johannah and Martin Espie’s newborn baby boy, secured a place in history as the frst baby born at Tweed Valley Hospital.

He weighed in at 2.958 kilograms.

Tweed Valley Hospital

Midwifery Unit Manager

Michelle Brinkman said both mother and baby

were well.

“I want to extend my congratulations to the Espie family on the arrival of their gorgeous baby boy,” Ms Brinkman said.

“I also want to thank our staff in the birthing and maternity units for their work in ensuring a smooth transition into the new hospital and the safe delivery of the frst baby born.”

Parents Johannah and Martin Espie said they are over the moon.

“It’s often said that it takes a village to raise a child,” Ms Espie said.

“We now consider the

midwifery and obstetric team at Tweed valley Hospital a very special part of our village.

“In particular Rebecca, Dannielle, Carrie and Carly, they went above and beyond to make the birth of our son everything we’d hoped it would be, including supporting our young daughter to be present and share in the experience.

“The Tweed Valley is truly blessed to have such a wonderful facility on our door stop, with such an amazing team of skilled professionals,” she said.

We can help you in your career

Are you studying and need a new laptop?

Are you in an apprenticeship and needing new tools?

Is there something, that you, a young person needs to help you in your career?

If so, then the Mid Richmond Education Fund may be able to help you.

Our next round is open until midJune, where grants are available to give a kick start to your future prospects.

Check out our application form on www.midrichmondeducationfund. org and see how we can help you.

Budget 2024-25: Rural Health Equity Remains Unaddressed

Statement by the National Rural Health Alliance

The recent Federal Budget has missed a crucial opportunity to tackle the persistent healthcare disparities between rural and urban Australia, asserts the National Rural Health Alliance.

Nicole O’Reilly, Chairperson of the National Rural Health Alliance, expressed disappointment at the budget’s failure to meet expectations. She emphasized the government’s lack of responsiveness to rural voices and its failure to commit to comprehensive reforms that would deliver sustainable and longterm benefts for rural communities.

The statistics paint a stark picture: Australians living farther from urban centres have lower life expectancies and

are twice as likely to succumb to preventable illnesses. Rural men and women face signifcantly higher risks of dying from avoidable causes compared to their urban counterparts. Alarmingly, many rural residents lack access to primary healthcare services within a reasonable distance from their homes, leading to reduced utilization of Medicare services and exacerbating the burden of disease in remote areas.

O’Reilly highlighted the evidence indicating a signifcant disparity in healthcare spending, with each person in rural and remote Australia missing out on nearly $850 per year in healthcare access, totalling an annual rural health underspend of $6.5 billion.

The National Rural Health Alliance

welcomed certain budget measures, such as the support for rural training opportunities through initiatives like the Charles Darwin University Menzies Medical Program and additional funding for the Royal Flying Doctors Service. However, O’Reilly stressed that these efforts alone are insuffcient to address the diverse healthcare needs across rural and remote Australia. While acknowledging positive steps, O’Reilly emphasized the urgent need for more comprehensive and sustained commitments to ensure equitable healthcare outcomes for rural and remote Australians. She urged the government to prioritize rural health reform in future budget allocations to ensure that all communities receive the care and support they deserve.

ENTRIES NOW OPEN

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

Entries close 5 pm, Monday 3 June 2024.

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

The Espie family with their baby boy – the frst baby to be born at Tweed Valley Hospital

TAFE NSW Giving First Nations Job Seekers in Casino a Foot in the Door to a Career in Hair and Beauty

TAFE NSW has partnered with a local Casino barber to deliver a new course that offers Aboriginal job seekers the opportunity to begin a career in the hair and beauty industry. The “Introduction to Hair and Beauty Skill Set” course has recently been provided to a group of students through the TAFE NSW Mobile Hair and Beauty Training Unit.

This course includes two accredited units designed to introduce students to both hair and beauty work, allowing them to explore their interests. If students discover a passion for the feld, they can pursue a traineeship or apprenticeship in hairdressing, barbering, or beauty.

Michael Day, a TAFE NSW graduate and owner of Black Comb

Barbershop, supports the training as an industry guest speaker, sharing his experiences and the benefts of working in the industry.

“I’ve had four apprentices from TAFE

NSW, and I know they’ve received the same high-quality, hands-on training I did from experienced teachers who are passionate about the industry,” said Michael.

“It’s important to connect with young people contemplating their future, and taster courses like this are a great way to introduce them to the main concepts. Participating in

these initiatives bridges the gap between training and industry. It allows me to network with potential employees for my business and gives students a foot in the door with local industry connections.

“It’s a privilege to help guide someone’s future and share my own experiences and pathways that have led me to owning a successful business.

I chose this industry because I have a passion for making people feel good about themselves, and it’s such a rewarding job – you can really turn a person’s day around by giving them a good haircut.”

Abby Hughes, TAFE NSW Hairdressing and Barbering Teacher, highlighted the course’s role in helping students understand the skills required and discover their interests.

“The Introduction to Hair and Beauty Skill Set course is designed to give students a clear pathway to a rewarding career in this exciting industry,” said Abby.

“There are many local opportunities available in the Casino area.

Through this course and our Mobile Training Unit, which supports our simulated practical training, we can connect job seekers to the right people to take the next step in their career.

Having Michael on board as a guest speaker has helped demonstrate the pathways available in this industry – not just in barbering, but also hairdressing and beauty. It is a rewarding industry to be part of, with a vibrant local network and exciting career opportunities.”

FEDERAL BUDGET 2024/25: IMPLICATIONS FOR BALLINA SHIRE

Mayor Sharon Cadwallader of Ballina Shire Council offered insights into the Federal Budget 2024/25 and its potential impact on the local community.

Acknowledging the signifcant commitment of $27.7 billion towards

various national projects, Mayor Cadwallader underscored the importance of initiatives targeting cost-of-living relief, education, and healthcare for community well-being. However, she expressed a desire for increased

infrastructure spending specifcally directed to regional areas.

“We appreciate measures aimed at supporting low and middle-income Australians, but Ballina Shire Council advocates for more

infrastructure investment in regional Australia,” Mayor Cadwallader emphasized.

Key highlights from the Federal Budget 2024/25 that are anticipated to beneft Ballina Shire and the Northern Rivers region include:

1. Infrastructure Investment: Allocation of $40 million for regional airports and community Wi-Fi initiatives.

2. Roads to Recovery Program: Progressive increase to $1 billion per year, along with additional funding for the Black Spot Program.

3. Cost-of-Living Relief Measures: Including energy rebates, tax cuts, and debt relief for tertiary students.

4. Support for Small Businesses: Funding totalling $290 million, with extensions to the

instant asset write-off scheme and support for small business owners’ well-being.

5. Healthcare Investment: $227 million for Medicare Urgent Care Clinics and regional healthcare support.

6. Housing Initiatives: Allocation of $6.2 billion to housing programs, aiming to address housing challenges and support new home construction and renters.

“While these allocations present opportunities for our region’s development, we await further details on funding distribution to Ballina Shire,” Mayor Cadwallader noted.

“With our population growing, it’s crucial that infrastructure keeps pace to support evolving community needs.”

“We hope for infrastructure investment directed towards Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, crucial for our local economy, given its signifcant passenger traffc and anticipated growth,” Mayor Cadwallader added.

She also highlighted the importance of addressing housing challenges amidst ongoing pressures faced by the construction industry and home builders.

For more information on the Federal Budget 2024/25, visit www. budget.gov.au. Or scan the QR code below.

Casino hair students TAFE NSW

Serenitas Celebrates Grand Opening of Multi-Million Dollar Clubhouse at Thyme Lifestyle Resort Evans Head

Serenitas, a leading provider of lifestyle communities and resorts for individuals over 50, proudly announces the grand opening of the state-of-the-art Clubhouse at Thyme Lifestyle Resort, Evans Head. The celebratory event saw enthusiastic homeowners joined by Mayor Robert Mustow and Serenitas CEO Rob Nichols, who offciated the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Nestled in the tranquil coastal enclave of Evans Head, the Clubhouse epitomizes refned living and leisure.

Located near the historic Evans Head Aerodrome and a short walk from pristine beaches, Thyme Evans Head offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and laid-back coastal charm.

Rob Nichols, CEO of Serenitas, expressed his excitement about the new facility: “We are thrilled to be opening the Thyme Evans Head Clubhouse, inviting residents and their guests to immerse themselves in the pinnacle of luxury living. With its striking architecture, ties to Evans Head’s aviation heritage, and a host of premium amenities, this opening heralds the next inspiring chapter for the resort’s homeowners and underscores Serenitas’ unwavering commitment to excellence.”

The multi-million dollar Clubhouse features an array of exquisite facilities, including a fully

equipped gym, heated swimming pool, health and beauty studio, luxurious cinema, sports bar complete with darts and pool table, croquet court, and more. A standout feature of the Clubhouse is the sophisticated Evans Lounge, providing homeowners a serene setting to enjoy views over the aerodrome by a cozy freplace.

“The Clubhouse caters to every taste,” added Mr. Nichols. “From our active residents utilizing the ftness facilities to our social groups making use of the Art & Craft Studio and other recreational spaces for gatherings and events.”

Demand for homes at Thyme Evans Head has been incredibly strong, with sales surpassing expectations since its inception. Located in the highly sought-after Northern Rivers district of NSW, Evans Head has emerged as a coveted community known for its relaxed coastal vibe and pristine waters.

“Our homes have garnered signifcant interest and are selling at an unprecedented pace,” remarked Rob Nichols. “With prices starting from $615,000, we are preparing to release our fnal homes for sale, reaffrming Evans Head’s status as a desirable destination for discerning homeowners.”

For more information about Thyme Evans Head, please visit www. evanshead.thyme.com. au.

Fire victims have a long road ahead

By Samantha Elley

Paul Wu and Kristina Nhen know it will be a long road to get their business back on track.

The restauranteurs and owners of the Mun-Tien Chinese and Thai Restaurant suffered a major setback when their business was one of two damaged by fre in Walker Street, Casino late last month.

“I have spent half my life in that business,” said Mr Wu.

“We came to Casino 22 years ago and the kids grew up with that restaurant in their lives.”

The community has rallied to help Mr Wu and Ms Nhen, along with Lorraine Webber, who owned the laundromat and sewing business next door, which was also

badly damaged.

Last week the Red

Doubtful Creek branch gave both sets of

each.

“We wanted to help them with their businesses and get something to them,” said Red Cross spokesperson Veronica Wheatley.

Ms Nehn said every little bit helped.

“We are very, very appreciative for what the ladies have given us,” she said.

“This was our livelihood, that paid our bills and our mortgage.”

The couple now need to wait for council to decide when they can go in and start the clean up.

“The cool room was damaged but the freezer seems ok,” said Mr Wu.

“We lost the dish washer and everything else, but it looks like the takeaway containers were saved.”

Cross ladies from the

Paul Wu and Kristina NHen out the front of what’s left of their Mun-Tien restaurant.

Veronica Wheatley of Red Cross, Lorraine Webber, Margaret Boyle and Maxine Booby of Red Cross and Kristina Nhen and Paul Wu.

I nearly fell off my chair Letter to the Editor

I nearly fell off my chair reading Rod Bruem, “Independent” Councillor’s reply to his fellow Councillor Kiri Dicker.

The last three years has clearly shown that Cr Bruem is far from independent, even bordering on Trumpian style of politics, something we don’t need in Local Government. He is more interested in playing politics & political point scoring than working collaboratively with all Councillors & staff for the good of the community.

I have never been a fan of Party or Group tickets in Local Council elections as it is detrimental to the local community.

In September I will be voting for individuals who will work for the community & keep away from group tickets, even the so called “Independent” ones.

John Heaton

Northern Rivers Koala Hospital needs funding: Urgent appeal for support

By Sarah Waters

Koalas are becoming an increasingly rare sight in NSW and the one organisation that is dedicated solely to their care in the Northern Rivers is desperately trying to keep operating as normal.

The Northern Rivers Koala Hospital, operated by Friends of the Koala, has made an urgent plea for fnancial support.

A decline in donations and available funding has threatened the hospital’s ability to operate effectively.

The hospital is specifcally designed for the medical treatment of koalas and is the only wildlife hospital in NSW licensed to vaccinate all treated koalas against Chlamydia - the number one cause of death for koalas in the Northern Rivers.

General manager of Friends of the Koala

Silva Everaers said more than 350 Koalas are treated at the hospital each year.

“From July last year we’ve seen a 20 per cent increase in koalas coming in, versus the year before,” Ms Everaers said.

“It will continue to increase as the threats to koalas are increasing with climate change, natural disasters, habitat being destroyed causing more koalas on the road, which leads to car hits, dog attacks and more diseases due to stress.

“So that’s obviously concerning, and it has been really, really busy for our volunteers rescuing and caring for them,” she said.

The Northern Rivers Koala Hospital was formed in 2019 and is part of the wider Friends of the Koala (FOK) organisation.

The FOK organisation receives government grants for certain projects including a recent grant to vaccinate 300 koalas against chlamydia.

But no government money is received for the operational cost of the koala hospital.

Half a million dollars needs to be raised by Friends of the Koala each year to cover the hospital’s annual operating expenses.

It is set up with diagnostic and treatment tools including ultrasounds, x-rays, a blood bank, as

well as surgical and pathology equipment to provide specialised 24/7 veterinary care to koalas.

magic happens,” she said.

“We work with over 300 volunteers, who do an absolutely

Until more funds become available the hospital may not be able to continue in its current capacity.

Ms Everaers said the priority was to keep the hospital funded and veterinary staff paid.

“That really is where the research and the

veterinary staff, the equipment we need, research facilities - it’s not free.”

Friends of the Koala have set up a special donation drive, appealing to the public’s generosity to help keep the hospital in operation and maintain their high standards of care.

Anyone with a heart for wildlife, including business owners and philanthropists, can become a ‘Friend of the Northern Rivers Koala Hospital’ at: friendsofthekoala.org or support by donating to the organisation.

Friends of the Koala are a grassroots organisation with more than 35 years of experience working on critical, on-the-ground activities to conserve habitat and protect koalas individually and as a species. It originated as a charity focused on planting trees but has evolved into a multifaceted organisation that also provides 24/7 koala rescue, medical treatment, research, advocacy and community education.

incredible job rescuing and rehabilitating the koalas treated in our hospital, and because of that we are able to keep operational costs really, really low.

“But we can’t do it without fnancial support, in the end, there’s medicine,

Friends of the Koala has successfully rehabilitated and released over 2000 koalas back into the wild since its inception.

The Northern Rivers is home to one of the last signifcant, genetically diverse koala populations.

A koala being treated at the Northern Rivers Koala Hospital in Lismore

General Manager of Friends of the Koala Silva Everaers

From Near Death to Thriving: Hobi’s Incredible Recovery at Northern Rivers Koala Hospital

By Sarah Waters

The Northern Rivers Koala Hospital in Lismore recently shared a heart-warming story about a very young koala joey, named Hobi, which came into its care.

Discovered cold and alone under a bush, Hobi was taken to the Northern Rivers Koala Hospital in February this year.

The hospital’s veterinary team were initially concerned about the young joey’s chances of survival.

He weighed a mere 700 grams upon arrival and was suffering shock from exposure.

Hobi’s

Veterinary Clinical & Research Director at Friends of the Koala Dr Jodie Wakeman said Hobi could barely sit up, was very dehydrated, had an erratic heartbeat, abnormal head and eye movements and his body temperature was so low that a reading did not register on the thermometer.

“Hobi surprised us all - with some medications, fuids, intensive care in a humidicrib and lots of TLC, he slowly improved over the next

few days,” Dr Wakeman said.

“It wasn’t long before Hobi was eating leaves and starting to move around,” she said.

Hobi defed the odds and in the week’s that followed he gradually became stronger and stronger.

His heart rate settled, his body temperature and hydration normalised, and his metabolic and neurological problems disappeared.

After two months in

intensive home care with Joey Care Coordinator and part time vet nurse Liz McLeod, Hobi progressed to Koala Kindy and is now undergoing his rewilding

journey.

At Koala Kindy, run by Friends of the Koala, Hobi will learn how to feed himself, climb and interact with other koalas, before eventually being released back to the wild.

Dr Wakeman said Hobi was the ‘little miracle koala for the year.’

“We are so pleased to see him thriving and so proud of our veterinary and volunteer teams that help to save koalas like him,” she said.

Joey koalas rely on the care of their mother from birth to about 18 months of age.

At the Koala kindy, trained volunteer koala carers will continue to give joeys supplement milk once or twice a day, administer medications, visually assess their health and weigh them regularly.

Join the Scenic Rim for a Queensland Day Celebration!

The Scenic Rim Regional Council warmly invites everyone to a free Queensland Day Family Fun

Day on Sunday, June 2nd, celebrating both Queensland’s birthday and the region’s newest citizens.

Held at Jubilee Park in Beaudesert, the event will commemorate Queensland’s 165th birthday from 10am to 1pm with a variety of festive activities, including:

• An animal farm

• A reptile display

• Face painting

• Jumping castles

• A sausage sizzle

• Sporting displays

• Live music

The festivities will begin with a citizenship ceremony welcoming 44 new members to the Scenic Rim community, conducted by Mayor Tom Sharp.

“This Queensland Day marks 165 years since Queensland became an independent colony,

separate from New South Wales. This year is even more special as Beaudesert celebrates its 150th anniversary

in 2024,” said Mayor Sharp.

“Queensland’s story began on June 6, 1859, and at our Queensland

Day celebrations, 44 members of the Scenic Rim community will write the next chapter in their story as they formally become Australian citizens.”

Mayor Sharp also expressed gratitude for the Queensland Government’s support in staging this event.

“Council is grateful for the Queensland Government’s support in staging this event which will bring our community together. I

hope as many as possible will accept Council’s open invitation to what promises to be a fabulous day of family fun as we celebrate our Scenic Rim lifestyle and heritage and what it means to be a proud Queenslander.”

The Queensland Day Family Fun Day is part of the 2024 Queensland Government’s Queensland Day celebrations. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate!

Getting stronger: Hobi is now in Koala Kindy after his life saving treatment at the Northern Rivers Koala Hospital

Vulnerable:

early days in home care

Diary of a food survivor

I was a bit disappointed in myself the other week, as I had heard the Northern Rivers Reconstruction Authority, or whatever they are called at the moment, were visiting the Woodburn hub.

They were having one on one interviews with locals, I guess to give them an update on their individual circumstances.

The day came around and I totally forgot to even ring up to book an appointment, let along actually go down there.

So I headed down there last week to ask when the gang would be back. Apparently, it is June 12, so I have marked it down in my diary.

I had registered, ages ago for the possibility of the retroft, although was told later, you didn’t get a choice in what they offered you: buy-back, retroft or raising.

Some people who have been offered a buy-back have accepted despite putting in new kitchens and the like, so I’ve seen a few offers on the classifed pages for these to be sold.

We wanted a retroft, because we don’t want to move as we love where we live. I mean, who doesn’t want to wake up with the view of cane

paddocks every morning.

And while the river is a fooding concern, it is a gorgeous spot to walk to and spend refective time, which I did on Saturday with a cup of coffee to remember my mum who we lost on that day seven years ago.

Neighbours who have sold up and moved to another town, now tell us they don’t have to worry about foods, but

their insurances are still high as bushfres are a concern.

I’m sure coastal residents wonder about tsunamis or erosion and inland locals have to put up with drought. My point is, it doesn’t matter where you live, there is always some issue. I choose to, for this time in our life, see the positive. Little steps.

Spider woman’s book lifts lid on care risks

By Tim Howard

Jenna Thompson has always had a soft spot for spiders.

When she and her partner Dennis Mavridis moved houses in Maclean, before they fnally settled at the property near Lawrence, she recalls packing up the huntsman that had taken residence with them and moving it into their new home.

But the former school teacher and journalist, who does communications for the NSW Department of Primary Industries, took this love of arachnids to a new level when she discovered jumping spiders.

These spiders – think of the stunning, if tiny, dancing peacock spiders – are the new darlings of the micro-pet world.

And Jenna, who stumbled across one a couple of years ago at her home and helped it raise 32 babies, has put everything she learned from that experience into a 64-page selfpublished booklet, Australian Jumping Spider Care Guide.

Asked to explain how these spiders have broken down the instinctive fear spiders bring out in most people, Jenna said

it came down to the “cuteness factor”.

“These spiders have the big, forward-facing eyes. They’re fuzzy, they almost look like teddy bears,” she said.

“I’ve seen people online call them spider puppies, or web puppies because they do really break down that scary spider vibe.

“And they’re very smart. They sort of work out pretty quickly, that big person over there isn’t going to eat me.”

Jenna cannot recall how the fascination with this species of spider started, but she thinks it was around the time that Jürgen Otto’s stunning pictures of peacock spiders started making headlines.

She said she had been vaguely aware of their existence due to some posts on Facebook, but a chance discovery of an incapacitated female jumping spider in her backyard two years ago changed her focus.

“I wasn’t even looking for her to be honest,” Jenna said.

“I knew I wanted to keep one for a couple of weeks to get the feel of them and understand them a bit more. Just out of curiosity.”

“She was a big fan of those crickets,” Jenna said. “She went from struggling to turning things around very quickly.’

But Jenna was in for lot more surprises, 32 in all, beginning just a week later.

“She was pregnant, so within less than a week of having her she went straight into nesting and then produced 32 offspring a couple of months later,” Jenna said.

Jenna spotted an opportunity to gather more information about this species.

“I just wanted to keep her in captivity, understand how she behaves, how she reacts to things and then let her go again,” Jenna said.

“With the surprise babies, I sort of took it on the chin and went cool, this is a great opportunity to learn more about them from birth.”

But even basic details like, how long should I wait until they come out of the nest, were hard to come by, even online groups selling spiders and products to care for

Luckily for her new charge Jenna had just fnished caring for some green tree frog froglets and had a supply of live little crickets which she tried out as a jumping spider food source.

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them.

“I thought it was strange that, for people who are breeding and selling them, they couldn’t really tell me how long it was going to take before they hatched,” she said.

So, Jenna decided it was time to fll in the blanks and began to record the data the hatchlings provided.

It wasn’t an easy task, looking after animals about the size of a pinhead.

“I almost went blind,” Jenna said.

“But I found there’s so much data to come from them and there were patterns in that data.”

Unfortunately, Jenna found people with a commercial interest in the spiders had attitudes ranging from indifferent to hostile.

“There was really no interest in that information,” she said.

“I found I was pretty much alone in actually recording this kind of data, at least within the hobby community.”

Instead, Jenna went down the scientifc route and found scientists looking at the jumping spiders were also amazed by what they were fnding out about

go and buy a product that doesn’t have any consideration for the welfare of the spider.

It’s something Jenna has taken to heart and as much as she enjoys having spiders around, she won’t be keeping any in tiny enclosures.

“I prefer to see them in the wild, in their natural habitat,” Jenna said.

these tiny creatures.

“I started looking at scientifc papers, reaching out to the scientifc community and just got really into it,” Jenna said.

“One study, for example, found that they actually have an REM sort of sleep just like us.”

But it’s what the spiders do when they’re awake and hunting for a meal that really has scientists on the edge of their seats.

Jenna said she’s been in contact with New Zealand scientist Dr Ximena Nelson, who has just received a A$1million grant to study the hunting tactics of Portia jumping spiders.

“It’s very similar to the way a lion hunts in that it assesses the situation it compares the risks and the rewards which isn’t invertebrate behaviour,” Jenna said.

Prof Nelson, while speaking to the press last month, said the research had ramifcations for humans.

She said the new research would test whether planning is possible, not only in mammals and birds with

large brains, but also in small animals with tiny brains such as Portia, which has a brain with less than 1 million times fewer neurones than a human brain.

“Our fndings will be signifcant because they could lead to the development of algorithms that enable the creation of artifcial planning systems in machines with severe

returning spiders to the exact location they were found after any studies are completed,” Jenna said.

Jenna said she had come to a similar conclusion after her contact with the species. She said she had put the spider she cared for into a clear acrylic container which is commonly marketed and sold as a standard

power constraints, such as those used on space missions. This may have implications for artifcial intelligence,” Prof Nelson said.

Jenna said she was thrilled that Prof Nelson not only read her book but provided positive feedback and advice for any further editions.

“She also shared some fascinating information about population decline for the species and the importance of

jumping spider enclosure.

She said the spider was happy to nest in the container for two months while she hatched her babies, but after that she exhibited some troubling behaviour.

“Within a day or two of that spider emerging from the nest, she began obsessively pacing around the top of her enclosure. To me, it didn’t look normal, she

didn’t look happy.”

“That’s when I started to realise she’s actually a really smart spider, and to put her in something so tiny and understimulating was totally inappropriate for her.”

So how big an area do jumping spiders need?

As the name suggests, they’re active creatures and one that lived in the kitchen at her workplace, the old Agricultural Research Station at Trenayr near Grafton, moved around the whole room seeking food and mates.

It’s no surprise that when Jenna put those views in the spider community it generated opposition.

“There was a real lack of information out there, accurate information,” she said.

“I have my reservations about the enclosures. I don’t think they are appropriate.

“People were constantly asking questions, good questions, like, why is my spider behaving this way or what’s the best spider to start with?

“Those questions were often answered by the online community, but when it came to enclosures and behaviour, the answers given were often wrong.

“Some of the answers simply directed you to

“Though I know the scientists I’ve spoken to really struggle with the ethics of containing these spiders in those little cages while they study them.”“But they and I both realise it’s for a purpose, it’s the most effcient way to view them in a scientifc context, and it’s not for their entire lives.”

“For me the issue is, if you’re going to have them as a pet, it’s not good enough to just stick them in a small cage on a bookshelf with cute little trinkets inside that appeal to you and not the spider.”

Jenna says this book could be the start of something more.

“It’s still early days in unlocking the potential of these spiders, but I’m already thinking about how to build upon and expand this guide as more information is discovered about them,” Jenna said.

Already she’s enlisted the macro-photographic skills of photographer Tom Wainwright to capture close up images of local spiders.

“I’ve given Tommy a bingo card of spiders I would like photographed and he’s done a great job of fnding them and sending me the photos,” she said.

“His beautiful photos will defnitely compliment the next edition.”

To get a copy of the book Jenna has set up a web page: https:// jumpingspiderguide. com

Clarence Valley woman Jenna Thompson has just written an informative booklet on how to care for the latest craze in micropets, jumping spiders. It’s available online.

The forward facing eyes, the shaggy coat. They’re just some of the characteristics of the jumping spider that are making them the new darlings of the pet world.

Photographer Tom Wainwright has been hard at work tracking down jumping spiders in the Northern Rivers area. He’s captured some of the features that are turning them into sought after pets.

Samantha’s Book

Lawrence Loves… the big day approaches.

Did Big Foot have something to do with this double grisly murder?

Title: Unnatural Death

Author: Patricia Cornwell

Price: $23.00

Publisher: Hachette

Book Group

By Samantha Elley

If you have been following the Kay Scarpetta series you will know the amount of intrigue, excitement and tension that you will experience in this novel. If not, then a quick overview. Kay Scarpetta is the chief medical examiner in Virginia and her work gives a voice to the dead who have met their end, in more o en than not, grisly circumstances.

In this latest novel, Dr Scarpetta is called out to retrieve two mauled bodies in the Northern Virginia wilderness.

e secrecy around the

Lawrence Community Fundraising Inc. invites Clarence Valley residents to enjoy a free a community arts festival in Lawrence, this Saturday 25th May.

LCF Inc President, Jenna Thompson said, “Lawrence Loves… is a way of shining a light on aspects of village life that contribute to its identity. We’re focusing on three tried and tested ways of bringing people together: through food, performing arts and ceremony.”

The project is funded by the Yulgilbar Foundation and has comprised a series of free arts and craft workshops which culminate in a one-day festival.

Following several craft workshops at Lawrence Public and Pre-schools, a ‘school’ of brightly painted papier maché fsh will adorn the festival site, while students will be showing off their lantern designs during the parade after sunset.

deaths of these victims means the autopsies she has to perform are of the utmost importance to some very serious agencies.

Evidence surrounding the bodies at the site include some heavy duty bullets and a largerthan-life footprint that brings out the Big Foot conspiracists.

It is a terrifying ordeal just to retrieve the bodies, and not only that, Dr Scarpetta discovers some unwanted news that could mean her family and those closest to her are in imminent danger.

But who would be this brutal and why?

Patricia Cornwell sold her rst novel, Postmortem, in 1990 and won a swag of awards for it. Now an international phenomenon with her Scarpetta series, the awards keep on coming.

She has also written cookbooks, a children’s book, a biography on Ruth Graham (wife to Billy Graham), and a non ction account of Jack the Ripper’s identity.

You can order your copy of Unnatural Death at booktopia.com.au

a performance from the Maclean Scottish Town Dance Troupe. A Welcome To Country ceremony will take place

Club and Lawrence Community Fundraising Inc. And if you’re feeling creative, sign up for the Wattle Ball

There will be live music all afternoon and evening thanks to a partnership with local curators Original Sound Lounge, plus

at 3pm sharp. Activities on the day have a family focus and include ‘Pat a Paca’ sessions with Wahgungurry Alpacas, a circus playspace and giant wooden games. Visitors will be able to view displays and interact with members of Lawrence Historical Society, Lawrence Gardening Club, Lawrence Fishing

and/or Lantern Making Workshops on the day.

Hot food will be served by the Lawrence General Store food truck, a bush tucker barbecue hosted by The Hungry Gooris and an RFS sausage barbecue, with sweet treats offered by the Lawrence Public School P&C and I-Scream.

The event runs from 2pm to 9pm with the lantern parade at 6pm.

For anyone interested in learning the art of scone making, while enjoying a good yarn, join in ‘Sconversations’ with Maclean CWA at the Lawrence Hall from 10am on Saturday morning.

Attendees are advised to bring chair or picnic blanket and something warm to wear after dark for the lantern parade. Scan the QR code below for detailed event information.

SAFETY REVIEW LEADS TO SPEED ZONE CHANGES ON NEW ENGLAND HIGHWAY NORTH OF TENTERFIELD

Following a tragic incident earlier this year, where a teenager lost his life at an intersection on the New England Highway north of Tenterfeld, calls for safety improvements prompted a thorough safety review. As a result of this review, signifcant changes are being implemented to enhance safety measures at the intersection.

A spokesperson from Transport for NSW emphasized the profound impact of road fatalities on families, friends, and communities, reiterating the commitment to preventing such tragedies. In response to safety concerns and the intersection’s

crash history, safety improvement works commenced on May 13th.

The speed limit on the New England Highway will be extended by 3.2 km to the north, covering both the Old Ballandean Road and Bruxner Way intersections, with the speed limit reduced to 80 km/h on Old Ballandean Road. Electronic message signs will be installed along the highway to inform motorists of the new speed limit, remaining in place for several weeks after the speed zone change. Moreover, Give Way signs at both intersections will be replaced with

Stop signs, and all intersection warning signage will be upgraded, alongside refreshed line marking for improved visibility.

While the existing 80 km/h speed limit on Bruxner Way remains suitable and will be retained, the review process involved collaboration with Tenterfeld Shire Council and NSW Police, adhering to the NSW Speed Zoning Standard. It’s essential to recognize that speed limits are integral to a broader speed management framework aligned with the Safe System approach to road safety.

The speed zone review, a meticulous

process encompassing site inspections, analysis of road conditions and crash data, and consideration of traffc volumes, underscores the commitment to comprehensive road safety measures. Importantly, anyone, including Council, Police, or residents, can propose a speed zone review through the Safer Roads portal at www. saferroadsnsw.com. au/haveyoursay.aspx. or scan the QR Code below.

Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular 2024: A Celebration of Equine Excellence and Heritage

“The Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular this year is special for me as it coincides with the 10th anniversary of the inauguration of the monumental Kelpies sculptures in Scotland. I can’t wait to share the story of those equine giants with everyone. My kilt is packed and I’m ready to go!” - Andy Scott

Have you heard of The Kelpies in Falkirk, Scotland?

These colossal, iconic Clydesdale heads are the largest equine sculptures in the world and a testament to human ingenuity. Modeled on

real-life Clydesdale horses, Duke and Baron, these masterpieces are the work of Andy Scott, a Scottish fgurative sculptor whose creations are in demand worldwide. This June, Andy Scott is coming to Boonah in the Scenic Rim!

Andy Scott also created Clydebuilt, the landmark metal Clydesdale statue that proudly stands in the heart of Boonah. Crafted in 2003 at the Old Butter Factory in Boonah, this statue symbolizes the strong connection between the region and these magnifcent horses.

Event Highlights:

• Date: Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th June

2024

• Location: Boonah Showgrounds, 8 Melbourne Street, Boonah

• Time: 8 am until late both days

• More Information and Tickets: Clydesdale Spectacular

Meet Andy Scott: Andy Scott will be the guest of honour at the Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular. The public can join him at An Evening With Andy Scott on Wednesday, June 12, and throughout the weekend. This event is a rare opportunity to meet the sculptor behind some of the world’s most iconic equine sculptures and hear about his journey and artistic process.

Celebrating Heritage and Skill:

The Boonah region

establishing the Scenic Rim’s agricultural base by clearing land, ploughing paddocks, and bringing in harvests.

As Andy Scott remarked, “I’m so looking forward to returning to Boonah and the beautiful Scenic Rim after so many years.

The town has a special place in my memory as it was the launch point for several artworks and exhibitions I had in Australia.”

Join us for a weekend flled with heritage, skill, and community spirit. Celebrate the majestic Clydesdales and their signifcant role in

champions of a breed that is internationally listed as ‘vulnerable.’

In tribute to the Scottish descendants who settled in the region with their

has a rich history with the Clydesdale breed, celebrated annually at the Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular. This event, the richest Clydesdale show in the Southern Hemisphere, honours the grand

beloved Clydesdales, the event will feature:

• A stirring massing of Pipes and Drums

• Calling of the Clans

• The Clydesdale and Clan class

• Traditional

Scottish caber tossing

• Haggis burgers and a whisky bar

• Encouragement for attendees to wear clan kilts

The event will also showcase a full schedule of Clydesdale competitions and rare trades, including harness making, blacksmithing, wheelwrights, horsedrawn demonstrations, driving displays, and whip plaiting.

Why Attend?

The Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular is not just about celebrating the Clydesdales; it’s about embracing and preserving a vital part of the region’s heritage. The majestic Clydesdales played a crucial role in

shaping the Scenic Rim.

The Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular is a sub-committee of the Boonah Show Society Inc. and is supported by the Scenic Rim Regional Council and the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland. For more details, visit Visit Scenic Rim. https://www. visitscenicrim.com.au/ scenic-rim-2024-eventsnot-to-miss/

Andy Scott at The Kelpies April 2024 photo Martin Shields

Three year old Quinn Goodear with EMILY, ready for the Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular photo Lyle Radford

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

LEEMO’S ‘WINTER ESSENTIALS’ LIST

‘Mum Jane’, are you mindful of the fact that winter will be here SOON? I have winter issues to discuss. As an OLDER feline, I’m likely to feel the cold biting winds, blizzards, possible snow falls & chills of winter more than normal.’ (It’s Leemo Cat here!) ‘SO, Mum, I’ll require extra care, hugs, warmth, comfort & hearty food over winter; let me elucidate.’ Eeek, her bossy right hand went up and the even bossier VOICE said ‘STOP’ now Leems. It does NOT snow in Lismore.’ (HAH, I was prepared for her ignorant response!) I therefore continued, ‘Mum, YOU should be aware on that on July 3rd 1984 e Northern Star paper reported SNOW falling at Mount Nardi, just 24km from Lismore? (Yippee, she looked taken aback! Goodie!) ‘Hmmm, Leems, a cup of tea would be ni y. Would you mind?’ I made the crabby old bat her tea & chucked in a ¼ of a Valium pill to hopefully put her to sleep. As she slurped she truly looked quite jealous ref. my snow knowledge & started wa ing. ‘Oh Leems, my precious one, (in a ‘suck-up’ slimy voice which made me nauseous) I’m SO remiss at times! I’ve tried to forget the 1984 evil winter in Lismore where I had to sleep in front of the open re on a Zebra Skin with 4 blankies. My beloved felines ‘TE’ & ‘Rosie’ were with me and we kept each other snug & warm ‘til ‘Rosie’s’ tail caught on re & got badly singed; all hell broke loose. ‘TE’ got such a fright he ran outside and got PAW-frostbite. Oooh, Leems, it was

truly dreadful; I had to put ‘Rosie’s tail (to which she was still attached) in a bucket of freezing water. (I truly reckon Mum makes things up!) I’ve had enough of her codswallop so I told her to be quiet. ‘MUM, you’re forgetting ‘I’ started this discussion about ‘MY’ needs for winter so stop talking about yourself. OK?’ She looked ashamed of herself, took out her notebook & asked me what I needed. Oh Goodie!! ‘OK Mum, rstly, I will still wish to visit the great outdoors of our yard even in the event of snow. Please build me a sturdy tent-like shelter for these times (& buy me a sled so I can get to it). You can use stu like old newspaper, cardboard, sticks, dried leaves, blankies & straw, meaning I will still have an outside clean, dry place to seek shelter & meet with my buddies. is is imperative ‘cos older cats are susceptible to Chilblain. AND Mum, be more kindly toward me, Gottit? I might catch arthritis ‘cos of the cold & will need to avoid exertion. I reckon I’ll move UPSTAIRS to your room, and you can move DOWNSTAIRS to mine. is would make it easier for me to get around & avoid painful stair climbing if I DO catch arthritis. My diet will need much brothy stu like fresh sh warm soup & stewed rhubarb with custard & lemon jelly with apricots. Oooh.. And don’t forget, get your shing gear sorted Mum. (Her eyes were crossed & watering badly?) My Plush Blue Blankies are threadbare so I want 4 new so , thick & luscious ones, & 4 so snuggle booties for my paws, a warm hand-knitted pure wool beanie with ear holes (would Audrey make it?) and a hot water bottle. Gottit? Did you write all that down Mum?’ I glanced at her and heard a ghastly snu y snoring drone noise emanating from her nose. YUK! Hmmm? What to do?

I KNOW! I’ll sneakily turn on our TV and have a ni y snug a ernoon watching ‘Bluey’. (and leave a BIG reminder note out for Mum to go shopping for my stu !). Nitey with warm purrsies, Leemo.

SYDNEY LABOR NEEDS U TURN ON ULMARRA FERRY AXING, WILLIAMSON TELLS PARLIAMENT

A petition signed by 6000 Clarence residents against the NSW Government’s shocking choice to sink the Ulmarra to Southgate ferry service should be enough for Labor to reverse the decision, Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson told the NSW Legislative Assembly on Wednesday.

“When the Government drove the last nail into the coffn by axing the Ulmarra Ferry service that had served the community for 100 years, I can only imagine the letdown, the disappointment, the disengagement and the sheer disbelief, just to save a few dollars, whilst those in the metropolitan area continue to have their transport subsidised by the public purse,” Mr Williamson said.

He revealed that in addition to the 6000-strong signature petition, he had received countless written messages from localsall against Labor’s cost cutting.

“Our business operates a logging and sawmilling business in the Ulmarra area, and this ferry service is absolutely essential for us to be able to continue with our business,” a local family frm wrote.

A man called Bill wrote “In these times of escalating costs and high petrol prices, we deserve a trip that now takes us four kilometres. That

is compared to the 62 kilometres the new trip would take.”

“Losing this vital piece of infrastructure will destroy our tiny community,” Shelley wrote.

Bobbie wrote, “I write in support of your petition, Mr Williamson. It is unfair that regional residents have to pay just to get to work—an extra 64 kilometres for me in my round trip.”

Mr Williamson said he was surprised at Government boasts that the Labor Party represents the bush and the country.

“Where I come from, that is not the community sentiment. They are disappointed

in the decision that has taken place and hurt by the lack of community consultation. They are urging the Minister, as I am, to reconsider her decision,” Mr Williamson said.

“The community of Ulmarra and Southgate feel bitterly let down by the Government,” he concluded.

Inviting Young People to Make Their Voices Heard

Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn, is calling on local young people to participate in a signifcant youth survey to share their views on important issues.

The NSW Government, in collaboration with the Advocate for Children and Young People (ACYP) and the Offce for Regional Youth, has launched the ‘Your Voice, Our Future’ survey. This initiative aims to engage young people on the issues that matter most to them.

Janelle Saffn emphasized the importance of regional youth participation:

“I am particularly reaching out to young people in our region because there will be issues that they face that are different from those in metropolitan areas. I hope that teachers and parents encourage all our young people to have their say because every voice deserves to be heard. This is a great way for the government to hear directly from local youth about their concerns, the future they envision, and what actions they would like the government to take.”

The survey, titled “Your Voice, Our Future,” is designed to

empower young people to infuence the future direction of the state.

Minister for Youth, Rose Jackson, who developed the survey with ACYP, stated that she wants to advocate for young people, ensuring their needs are understood and addressed through direct consultation.

Key Details:

• Target Audience: Young people aged 14 to 24

• Purpose: To help the government better engage with the state’s youth on policies and issues that affect them

• Survey Link: Your Voice, Our Future

Survey

• Deadline: Open until the end of the year

Janelle Saffn encourages all young individuals to seize this opportunity to make their voices heard and contribute to shaping a future that refects their aspirations and needs.

Richie Williamson with the Petitions in the NSW Legislative Assembly Chamber.

New Marine Rescue Brunswick and Trial Bay Vessels Successfully Complete Sea Trials

Yamba, May 16, 2024

– Two new replacement vessels for Marine Rescue NSW have completed successful sea trials at Yamba, marking a signifcant milestone before their deployment in the coming weeks.

Kelvin Parkin, Senior Manager Fleet at Marine Rescue NSW, expressed satisfaction with the performance of the new Brunswick 30 and Trial Bay 30 rescue vessels during their trials over the past two days.

with twin Suzuki 300 horsepower engines, enabling them to reach impressive speeds of up to 42 knots.

and communications technology, including a comprehensive Raymarine suite,” Parkin added.

“Their performance was outstanding. They exhibited excellent manoeuvrability, handling, and propulsion capabilities,” Parkin remarked.

Built by Yamba Welding and Engineering, the 10-meter Naiad rescue boats are equipped

“These vessels represent a signifcant enhancement in search and rescue capability for their respective regions. They feature stateof-the-art navigation

Volunteers from Marine Rescue Brunswick participated in the sea trials and underwent training on BR 30.

Jonathan Wilcock, Unit Commander of

Brunswick, praised the new vessel’s speed, performance, and layout compared to its predecessor.

“The improved speed and layout of the new boat will signifcantly enhance our response capabilities across the region. The navigation

equipment is particularly impressive, providing invaluable support for our mission of saving lives on the water,” Commander Wilcock stated.

Following the sea trials, Brunswick 30 will be stationed at Brunswick Heads Boat Harbour for further training and induction, while Trial Bay 30 is scheduled for delivery to the unit next month.

The NSW Government has contributed to the funding of both replacement vessels, underscoring its commitment to supporting the essential work of Marine Rescue NSW and its 3,400 volunteers.

Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based, notfor-proft professional organization dedicated to ensuring boater safety and supporting local communities on the water.

Nigel Dawe

“Life is a succession of lessons,” once said Ralph Waldo Emerson, “which must be lived to be understood. All is riddle, and the key to a riddle is another riddle.” No one bar the wily old sage of New England could’ve put it any better; while it doesn’t exactly spoon feed those who crave simple explanations, it does alert those with an enquiring mind where to roughly look and what to expect, when essential meaning is sought.

As such, lessons emerge in many different shapes and guises over the course of our lives, from those we are formally set in classrooms at school, to the informal hard knocks we receive as we drift into the trainer wheel-less world of adulthood. Relatedly, Elisabeth Kubler-Ross once said, “Learning lessons is a little like reaching maturity. You’re not suddenly more happy, wealthy, or powerful, but you understand the world around you better, and you’re at peace with yourself. Learning life’s lessons is not about making your life perfect, but about seeing life as it was meant to be.”

That said, an ignorance towards much of what we cause by way of our actions, is a far more common occurrence, to being able to learn from the inherent lessons within that which we encounter – good, bad or otherwise. Or as Roy T. Bennett once so wonderfully noted, “Never let hard lessons harden your heart; the hard lessons of life are meant to make you better, not bitter… Challenge and adversity are meant to help you know who you are. Storms don’t

Funding Needed Now for Rough Sleeping Crisis in Byron Shire, Says Mayor

Byron Shire Mayor

Michael Lyon is urgently calling on state and federal governments to provide much-needed funding for housing and homelessness services in Byron Shire. Mayor Lyon expressed his distress upon learning that Byron Shire has topped the 2024 NSW Street Count for rough sleepers for the second consecutive year.

just hit your weakness, but unlock your true strength.”

Ironically, some of our greatest lessons will not just be the result of our biggest mistakes and failures, they will often not be evident to us were they ‘presented’ any other way. Success has an alluring way of stroking our belly and making us believe that what we do can’t be bettered; while defeat on the other hand makes it very clear that the opposite is more often the case. As Henry Rollins once confessed, “We all learn lessons in life. Some stick, some don’t. I have always learned more from rejection and failure than from acceptance and success.”

Those able to learn, albeit glean their personal lessons are among the true learned in life; it is a giftedness that has absolute zero to do with any closeted institutes of learning. You can’t teach what your own life has to instruct or tell. As Elisabeth Kubler-Ross once discerned, “We’re put here on Earth to learn our own lessons. No one can tell you what your lessons are; it is part of your personal journey to discover them. On these journeys we may be given a lot, or just a little bit, of the things we must grapple with, but never more than we can handle.”

Whether we heed the lessons of what life wants us to know, is one of the greatest riddles in our own self development and awareness, or maybe Brian Rathbone couldn’t have been more succinct by saying, “Wisdom is the reward for surviving our own stupidity.”

needed. “One year is not going to be anywhere near enough to help get our most vulnerable community members into secure housing, especially when it is not accompanied by housing pathways,” he explained.

“We now have 17 percent of the entire state count here in Byron Shire, which is beyond devastating,” the Mayor stated. “Funding for homelessness services and vital social housing is relatively high in Sydney, while local funding is shockingly inadequate to meet our needs.”

Although the recent NSW Government investment in a 12-month pilot of a Byron Shire Assertive Outreach program is a positive step, Mayor Lyon emphasized that it falls short of what is

Mayor Lyon is advocating for a fve-year funding commitment, similar to those announced by the NSW Government for other services, to address the acute regional inequity. “We clearly have the most need, and the regional inequity is beyond comprehension,” he said.

Adequate housing, including social housing, is essential to support individuals transitioning out of homelessness.

Social housing provides government-subsidized, long-term rentals for people on very low incomes who cannot afford housing in the general market. “Despite having more rough sleepers than the City of Sydney, we have less

than 5 percent of the amount of social housing available – this cannot continue,” Mayor Lyon noted.

“Without these essential pieces of the puzzle, we’re all working with our hands tied behind our backs,” he added.

Mayor Lyon highlighted that Sydney’s stabilizing and, at times, reducing rough sleeping levels are a direct result of investments in housing and services. “Our local community members deserve the same right to be housed, with the support they need to live with dignity,” he asserted.

The 2024 Byron Shire Street Count recorded a signifcant increase in rough sleepers from previous years, with 300 people in 2023, 138 in 2022, and 198 in 2021. The 2022 count did not include Brunswick Heads or Mullumbimby due to extreme weather conditions.

The street count, conducted in

collaboration with the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, took place in the early hours of February 29 and March 1, 2024. It covered areas including Byron Bay, Belongil, Suffolk Park, Brunswick Heads, Mullumbimby, and Ocean Shores, excluding holidaymakers and temporary vehicle sleepers.

For more information on Council’s actions to support people experiencing homelessness, visit the Council’s website. https://www. byron.nsw.gov.au/ Residential-Services/ My-Community/ Homelessness-in-theByron-Shire or Scan the QR Code below.

Rife Range Road Upgrade

Commencing this Monday, May 20th, the eagerly awaited Rife Range Road intersection upgrade in Bangalow will kick off, following a brief delay last month attributed to unforeseen approvals needed from Transport for NSW, now successfully resolved.

Expressing gratitude for the community’s understanding during the setback, Phil Holloway, Council’s Director of Infrastructure Services, underscored the signifcance of this project for Bangalow. The upgrade encompasses various

enhancements such as the widening of Lismore Road, drainage improvements, establishment of new bus bays and shelters on both Lismore Road and Rife Range Road, and the creation of picturesque, shared paths connecting the bus bays to Tristania Street.

Beginning Monday, construction crews will mobilize on-site to commence the works, necessitating traffc diversion to Raftons Road via Keith Street or Leslie Street.

Mr. Holloway outlined the works program, indicating that certain

periods will entail road closures at the Rife Range Road and Lismore Road intersection, with detours in place. Advanced notice will be provided through information boards, yet all users of Rife Range Road and Lismore Road should anticipate delays and alternate routes.

Here’s what you need to know about the works program:

1. Intersection Closure: The intersection of Rife Range Road and Lismore Road in Bangalow will be inaccessible to all traffc, barring emergency services. This closure facilitates:

o Elevation of the road.

o Reconstruction of the intersection.

o Installation of culverts under Lismore Road.

This substantial undertaking is made possible through funding contributions from the NSW Government, Australian Government, and Byron Shire Council. For regular updates on the project’s progress, interested parties are encouraged to visit the dedicated ‘Rife Range Road upgrade’ page on Council’s website.

Construction of Vital Stormwater Pump Station Commences in Murwillumbah

In a signifcant step towards enhancing food mitigation in Murwillumbah, construction has begun on a new stormwater pump station situated behind the levee at Murwillumbah (Brothers) Leagues Club. This $1.626 million project is a collaborative effort between Tweed Shire Council, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Reconstruction Authority (RA), and the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

The new pump station is a key component of several initiatives being implemented in the Tweed Local Government Area under the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP). This program, funded by the Australian Government, allocates $150 million for food mitigation and resilience projects across the Northern Rivers region, severely affected by fooding in February and March 2022.

The NRRRP aims to foster long-term resilience, ensuring communities are better equipped to withstand and recover from future

disasters. Construction on the pump station began in early May and is expected to take approximately three months to complete, weather permitting. During this period, the levee wall and the dirt track behind the Brothers clubhouse will be inaccessible to the public.

The project includes the installation of two new pumps, each standing approximately two meters tall, capable of moving nearly 1,000 litres of stormwater per second at full speed.

Under the NRRRP, $6.67 million has been allocated for several additional projects, supplemented by $2 million from the RA.

These projects include:

• Wharf Street pump station upgrade

• Lavender Creek pump station upgrade

• New pump system within the East Murwillumbah levee

• Detailed evacuation procedures

• Alma Street modifcation

• Earthworks across Lot 4 on Quarry Road and modifcation of Condong Creek Construction activities began on May 9, 2024, with work scheduled from Monday to Friday

between 7 am and 6 pm, and occasional Saturday operations from 7 am to 1 pm. Safety measures include site fencing around the construction area and the temporary closure of the levee wall and dirt track behind Brothers Leagues Club. Equipment transport will occasionally utilize the park gate at the end of Murwillumbah Street, which will also serve as a temporary haulage route.

Community and Government Leaders Speak on the Project

Justine Elliot, Member for Richmond: “This project exemplifes how government funding can support communities in taking necessary steps to improve food protection

following the devastating 2022 food events. The NRRRP is delivering real projects in Tweed, ensuring communities like Murwillumbah are better positioned to recover from future severe weather events. I am very pleased to see construction underway with funding support from the NRRRP on this vital stormwater pump, which will boost food resilience. The Albanese Government is committed to helping the Northern Rivers on the road to recovery and ensuring we are all better prepared for future events.”

Janelle Saffn, Parliamentary Secretary of Disaster Recovery: “This will make a

signifcant difference to the lives and livelihoods of people living and working in Murwillumbah. It represents real action on mitigation measures, so communities are better prepared and able to recover from the devastating impacts of foods. It demonstrates a willingness from all levels of government to get on with the job of increasing community resilience to future disasters.”

Chris Cherry, Mayor of Tweed Shire Council: “This stormwater pump station is a vital component of Council’s food mitigation strategy for Murwillumbah and aims to reduce the

impact of stormwater fooding in the area. The pump station will not eliminate all fooding, but it will reduce the frequency and magnitude of nuisance fooding due to storm events. While we can’t stop fooding from occurring, the pumps will signifcantly improve drainage of the area following a rain event, helping to reduce the impact of fooding on local residents and Brothers Leagues Club in the future. Thanks to the generous support of NEMA, NSW RA, and DCCEEW, this project represents a signifcant step towards strengthening our community’s resilience to fooding.”

Clint O’Keefe, Chairman of Murwillumbah Leagues Club: “Flooding has long been a problem for us at Murwillumbah (Brothers) Leagues Club, and we are excited to see work start on building this new pump station. Brothers is an intrinsic part of Murwillumbah life – not only on match days but also as a centre for social gatherings. This pump station means we will be able to resume normal operations much quicker after a major rain event.”

STOCKSVILLE HEADLINES SEASON FINALE

Hessions Auto Parts

Grafton Speedway is set to conclude its 2023-24 season this Saturday afternoon / night with the annual Stocksville 100 event for the RSA Street Stockers and the Dash for Cash event for the Production Sedans.

Close to $10,000 in cash and prizes will be up for grabs across both the Stocksville 100 and Dash for Cash events, with nearly $5,000 for the taking in Stocksville 100 and a cool $1,000 is set to be paid to the winner of the Dash for Cash event, and it’s a massive way for the season to fnish up for Grafton Speedway.

Heading into the Stocksville 100, the favourite without a shadow of doubt is Raymond Terrace’s Shane Carlson, who has recently enjoyed a lot of recent success around the 440-metre Grafton Speedway track, where he is the defending Stocksville 100 Champion and

also picked up victory in last season’s NSW Title. Carlson is no doubt aiming to make it back-to-back Stocksville 100 wins, but it certainly won’t be an easy task,

as the likes of youngster Connor Reeves and Chris Corbett as his main challengers. The format for the Stocksville 100 is a total of three 20 lappers and one 40 lapper.

For the Dash for Cash event in the Production Sedans, the feld of winning contenders is wide open; however, drivers such as current NSW Champion Jordan

Biviano, Madison Harkin, Dale Corbett, Geoff Hayes, Sam Mooney and Aaron Hall are likely to be right up there fghting it for the $1,000 top prize. In the AMCA Nationals action, local veteran Tony Blanch is hoping to continue his solid 202324 season form around Grafton Speedway, and there is no doubt that he will be kept honest by out-of-town front runners in the father and son duo of Russ and Matt Hardy, as well as Paul Reeves. Making up the program for Grafton Speedway’s season fnale is going to be the RSA Four Cylinder Sedans, Modlites, Legend Cars, and Junior Sedans (both Top Star and New Star categories for their Gold Cup event).

Photo courtesy of Butcher Photography

ON SITE: State Member for Lismore and NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffn MP with, from left, Murwillumbah (Brothers) Leagues Club representative Dave Orr, Tweed Shire Mayor Cr Chris Cherry, Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot MP and Brothers’ Glenn Weaver inspecting construction of the new pump station.

LOCAL CONCRETE GIRDERS MAKE THEIR WAY UP THE HIGHWAY FOR BYPASS

The Coffs Coast community will soon see locally-produced concrete girders making the trip from Macksville to Coffs Harbour where they will form part of 15 of the 17 bridges on the Coffs Harbour Bypass alignment.

Transport for NSW Director Region North Anna Zycki said the project team is working with Australian Precast Solutions, which is casting the massive 260 Super T girders, which

The United Services Union (USU) has unveiled a startling revelation regarding the NSW Government’s handling of funds accrued through a fawed waste levy system, which has led to an annual loss exceeding half a billion dollars for local councils. Rather than channelling these funds back into assisting councils with their waste management services and infrastructure, as intended, the government’s actions have exacerbated fnancial strains on local authorities.

This revelation, to be presented before the NSW Standing Committee on State Development’s inquiry into local government fnancial sustainability,

measure from 18 metres to 35 metres long and weigh up to 90 tonnes.

“This demonstrates our commitment to investing in local businesses and local jobs,” Ms Zycki said.

“The ongoing program of work from the Coffs Harbour Bypass has ensured longevity for the 65 staff already employed at the precast yard, with further opportunities for an additional ten casuals in the future.”

Ms Zycki also said the girder movements will cause occasional delays for some road users and urged motorists to be extra mindful when sharing the road with these oversize loads.

“Each girder is classifed as an Over Size, Over Mass (OSOM) load and will be escorted to site with a pilot vehicle,” Ms Zycki said.

“To minimise impacts, only approved heavy vehicle haulage routes

will be used and deliveries will be made during off-peak periods, where possible.

“When driving near these vehicles, be mindful that they take up more space and are unable to stop quickly. Please remember to ACT – be aware, use caution and allow more time to get to your destination,” Ms Zycki said.

Doug Nimmo, Precast Superintendent from Australian Precast Solutions said the bypass

is providing a great boost for local companies.

“We’ve worked with Transport for NSW for many years, helping deliver structural elements for the Pacifc Highway duplication including for the Woolgoolga to Ballina upgrade a few years ago,” Mr Nimmo said.

“We’re pleased they keep coming back to us and we’re delighted to be part of the team that’s bringing the longawaited bypass to Coffs

Councils lose half billion dollars a year

highlights a pressing issue compounded by the detrimental effects of rate capping—a policy that has severely constrained the fnancial fexibility of the majority of NSW councils. Both the fawed waste levy system and the constraints of rate capping persist as legacies of the previous coalition government.

General Secretary of the USU, Graeme Kelly, underscored the severity of the situation, emphasizing that while local councils and communities contribute approximately $750 million annually through the waste levy, only a fraction, $250 million, is reinvested into local waste management initiatives. The staggering sum of $500 million is siphoned into

the state’s consolidated revenue, neglecting the intended purpose of aiding councils in managing waste sustainably.

The shortfall in waste levy revenue exacerbates

revenue for NSW.

Mr. Kelly decried this as a blatant instance of cost shifting by the NSW Government, which places undue strain on councils already grappling with fnancial

existing challenges, particularly in regions like northern NSW, where inadequate landfll sites prompt councils to incur additional costs by transporting waste across state borders.

This situation not only burdens ratepayers but also results in lost levy

constraints imposed by rate pegging, diminishing grants, and escalating service demands.

The USU contends that the mismanagement of the waste levy exacerbates fnancial pressures on councils, incentivizing some to seek alternatives

such as dumping waste in neighbouring states. This practice not only undermines environmental objectives but also erodes the fnancial stability of local councils.

However, the waste levy issue is symptomatic of a larger fnancial crisis facing local government in NSW, as highlighted in a report by Professor Brian Dollery. The report underscores the deleterious impact of rate pegging, which over two decades has precipitated heightened debt levels, infrastructure defciencies, and decreased municipal effciency compared to states without rate caps.

Mr. Kelly emphasized the urgent need for reform, asserting that unless councils are

Harbour.”

The Australian and NSW Government are funding the 14 kilometre Coffs Harbour Bypass. When complete, the project will save motorists 12 minutes travel time, bypass up to 12 sets of traffc lights and remove thousands of vehicles from the Coffs Harbour CBD.

More information about the bypass is available at https:// pacifchighway.nsw.gov. au/coffsharbourbypass

empowered to set rates refective of their actual costs, the risk of fnancial distress looms large, jeopardizing employment and essential services for over 50,000 council employees statewide.

The USU calls upon the NSW Government to dismantle rate pegging as part of a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at securing the long-term fnancial viability of local government. While recognizing the complexity of the challenges ahead, Mr. Kelly stressed that abolishing rate pegging represents a crucial initial step towards establishing a sustainable funding model that acknowledges the indispensable role of local government in community welfare.

Strengthening the justice system to better protect domestic and family violence victim survivors

The NSW Government is implementing signifcant legal reforms aimed at bolstering the protection of domestic and family violence victim survivors. These reforms, spearheaded by Premier Chris Minns and Attorney General Michael Daley, refect a commitment to prioritizing the safety of individuals impacted by domestic violence.

Key reforms include:

1. Reversing the presumption of bail: For serious domestic violence offences, such as sexual assault,

strangulation, and kidnapping, alleged offenders will now be required to demonstrate why they should be granted bail. This shift places the burden on the accused to justify their release, enhancing the scrutiny applied to bail decisions.

2. Electronic monitoring: Individuals charged with serious domestic violence offences and granted bail will be subject to electronic monitoring, ensuring closer supervision and accountability while

awaiting trial.

3. Expanded grounds for bail decisions to be ‘stayed’: Prosecutors will have the ability to challenge bail decisions in the Supreme Court, thereby preventing the release of potentially dangerous domestic violence offenders.

4. Consideration of domestic abuse risk factors: Bail decision-makers will be required to take into account various indicators of domestic abuse, including physical violence, stalking, and intimidation,

when assessing bail applications for domestic violence-related offences.

5. Victim perspectives: The views of victims and their families will be considered in bail decisions, providing an additional layer of protection and acknowledging the importance of victim input in ensuring safety.

6. Prosecution of perpetrators using tracking devices: Measures will be introduced to facilitate the prosecution of perpetrators who employ

tracking and surveillance devices to exert control over their victims.

Furthermore, the NSW Government has allocated $230 million to enhance the response to domestic and family violence, encompassing primary prevention, early intervention, and crisis response initiatives.

Additionally, NSW has secured a share of $1 billion in federal funding for emergency accommodation for domestic violence survivors.

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic

Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison, underscores the collaborative approach taken in developing these reforms, which involved extensive consultation with legal experts and stakeholders. Together, these measures represent a concerted effort to strengthen the justice system’s response to domestic and family violence, safeguarding the well-being of women and children across NSW.

Alarming Surge in Homelessness: Byron Shire Leads NSW According to 2024 Street Count

Byron Bay, May 15, 2024 – The recent release of data from the NSW Government’s 2024 Street Count has shed light on a concerning reality for Byron Bay, now home to the largest number of rough sleepers in NSW. With 2,037 individuals counted sleeping rough in 2023 compared to 1,623 the previous year, there has been a notable increase, with 348 individuals identifed in Byron Bay alone. This uptick, approximately 16% in Byron Bay, sharply contrasts with a more modest 1% rise in the City of Sydney. These fgures underscore the escalating crisis in regional areas, placing the Byron Shire at the forefront of homelessness and rough sleeping challenges.

Fletcher Street Cottage, Byron’s primary homeless support hub, stands as a frontline resource in addressing the mounting

homelessness crisis.

Established in 2022, the hub has become a vital lifeline, offering essential services and support to those in need. Over the past two years, it has served over 21,000 breakfasts, provided 9,200 showers and laundry services, and facilitated access to health and social services for numerous individuals.

Lindy Swain, Manager of Fletcher Street Cottage, emphasizes the urgency of the situation:

“The 2024 Street Count only provides a snapshot of rough sleepers in Byron Bay and does not capture the many hidden homeless – those sleeping in cars, tents, and couch surfng. We urgently require social housing in our region.

Fletcher Street Cottage remains dedicated to extending a helping hand to those impacted by this crisis. The support we offer is more crucial now than ever, and we are in dire need of funding to

sustain our efforts.”

Various factors such as rising interest rates, cost of living pressures, a local rental crisis, and inadequate social housing contribute to the surge in homelessness in Byron Bay. While these challenges are not new, their impacts are becoming increasingly severe, especially evident in the growing number of women seeking support at Fletcher Street Cottage, refecting broader societal pressures.

The Byron Community Centre, supporting local rough sleepers since the early 2000s, highlights the importance of sustained community collaboration and generosity in addressing this crisis. Fletcher Street Cottage collaborates with multiple service providers to offer comprehensive support to those in need.

Louise O’Connell, General Manager of Byron Community Centre, expresses

gratitude for the community’s support: “As Fletcher Street Cottage celebrates its two-year anniversary, community support is more crucial than ever in these challenging times. We extend our deepest gratitude to our dedicated staff, volunteers, donors, and partners, whose support is instrumental in addressing this escalating crisis. Our team works tirelessly to secure the necessary funding to sustain Fletcher Street Cottage and continue providing essential services to locals in need.”

For more information about Fletcher Street Cottage and to contribute, visit www. fetcherstreetcottage. com.au.

The 2024 street count, conducted between February 1 and March 1, 2024, is published annually. Visit www. facs.nsw.gov.au/housing/ housing-reforms/ homelessness/streetcount for further details.

Transgrid Launches Aerial Bushfre Prevention Inspections on North Coast

Starting next week, Transgrid will deploy a helicopter over the North Coast as part of its annual bushfre prevention program.

This initiative involves thorough inspections of high-voltage electricity transmission lines to identify any potential bushfre hazards and assess the condition of towers and transmission lines, ensuring their safe operation as summer approaches.

Lance Wee, General Manager of Asset Management at Transgrid, emphasized the importance of these inspections. “We are dedicating substantial resources to inspect our network and perform necessary vegetation management and maintenance. Our goal is to mitigate bushfre risks well before the summer season,” he stated.

From February to September, specialist teams will oversee the inspection of infrastructure across Transgrid’s extensive 13,000km network. These efforts aim to pinpoint any issues with vegetation encroachment or maintenance needs.

Residents may notice the helicopter fying at approximately 50 kilometers per hour along the transmission lines, as crews work to photograph and inspect

the infrastructure.

“This aerial view allows us to proactively address any potential issues and effectively manage bushfre risks,” explained Mr. Wee.

Transgrid is grateful for the community’s patience and understanding during this critical period.

“These inspections are vital for maintaining safety and preventing bushfres, and we appreciate the community’s support as we undertake this essential work,” Mr. Wee added.

Weather permitting, the inspections will cover areas including Boambee, Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Kempsey, Lismore, Macksville, Nambucca Heads, Port Macquarie, and Raleigh from May 16-26. However, the schedule may change.

For more details or updates on the inspection schedule, please contact Transgrid’s toll-free hotline at 1800 222 537 or visit their bushfre risk management page at Transgrid Bushfre Safety by scanning the QR Code below.

Under Labor, everything will continue to cost more for longer

By Kevin Hogan

“This Albanese Labor Budget means everything will continue to cost more for longer” Member for Page, Kevin Hogan said.

“Prime Minister Albanese promised this

would be a ‘true Labor budget’ and tonight we know what this means: a big spending, big taxing con job that fails to tackle infation or meaningfully address the housing crisis.

“Do you feel better or worse off after two years

of Labor?

“This Labor Government has added $315 billion of extra spending over the last two years. A typical household with a mortgage is now more than $35,000 worse off.

“After two years

in offce and three Labor Budgets, the Government is no closer to dealing with its homegrown infation crisis – which means more pressure on cost of living and interest rates higher for longer.

“The RBA Governor

has said our infation is “homegrown” meaning it is a direct consequence of Labor’s bad decisions and wrong priorities.

“Australians know this despite the Treasurer’s spin. Housing is up 12%, rents are up 12%, insurance up 26%,

electricity is up 18%, and gas is up 25%.

“Australians are paying the price for Labor’s wrong priorities and bad decisions. In these uncertain economic times, we needed a Budget that gets back to basics.

HEADLINERS CHORUS HIT A MILESTONE

After a few months hiatus the Headliners Chorus are very happy to announce that we are back performing for the Community. We spent the time welcoming 10 new ladies to the chorus and learning new repertoire and Director, Cath Gordon, is extremely happy with the results.

We recently sang at the Ballina RSL Anzac Day Dawn Service and again at the Cenotaph for the Day Service and it was a great honour for us all to be part of this. We also sang at the Lighthouse Club in the Richmond Room and were delighted to be invited back to sing later in the year.

Recently the chorus hit a milestone and celebrated its 20th Anniversary as a chartered SAI chorus. To mark the occasion one of our ladies took on the task of making a book to capture the memories and the journey of the chorus to its present state. The book launch was a celebration for past and present members and we were delighted when our Mayor, Sharon Cadwallader, joined us for champagne at the RSL for the book launch.

Julia Murphy has done a wonderful job and managed to capture the essence of the chorus from its inauguration to the present with beautiful photos and snippets which have been collated and remind us all of the wonderful experiences we have shared over the years. It has already sold out its frst edition and been reordered.

Go Julia !!!!! If anyone wold like a copy am sure it could be arranged so please contact the chorus on our website headlinerschorus.info.

We will be having our own big concert on 14th September in the Ballina RSL Auditorium so save that date and are already flling up our calendar rapidly for the rest of 2024.

Casino Showground Bookings Now Available

We are excited to announce that the recently revitalized Casino Showground and Racecourse precinct will commence accepting bookings starting from Monday, June 3rd.

With a generous funding injection of $12.8 million from the Bushfre Local Economic Recovery Fund, alongside contributions from various sources including the NSW Showground Stimulus Program, Drought Communities Funding, Crown Lands, and Council, the total investment in this redevelopment has reached $14.4 million. This newly enhanced facility boasts a range of features including

a spacious undercover arena, an outdoor sand arena, turfed areas, covered stables, and a state-of-the-art racehorse stable complex capable of accommodating up to 80 horses. Additionally, new parking areas for cars, trucks, and foats have been added for the convenience of visitors.

Of notable appeal is the newly constructed racehorse exercise area, which includes round yards, a horse walker, and a 50-metre equine pool. These amenities are expected to draw considerable interest from equestrian enthusiasts and event organizers alike. Furthermore, enhancements such as powered event camping areas have expanded

the facility’s versatility, allowing for hosting a diverse range of events including country music festivals, car shows, trade exhibitions, and markets.

Despite the offcial opening ceremony held on April 20th to commemorate the acknowledgment of government funding, certain essential construction tasks remain pending due to unforeseen circumstances. These include the high-voltage power upgrade, completion of the equine training area, and fencing installations crucial for ensuring the safety of all facility users.

Unfortunately, adverse weather conditions in the Northern Rivers

region have exacerbated delays, saturating many areas of the facility and rendering them unsuitable for immediate use. However, efforts are underway to expedite the fnalization of these outstanding projects in alignment with the originally tendered project costs.

In tandem with these developments, the Council is set to deliberate on its Draft Revenue Policy for 2024-2025 at its upcoming meeting.

This policy will outline the proposed fees for utilizing the facility and will undergo a public exhibition period of 28 days following the meeting, during which community feedback and submissions will be

welcomed. We extend our gratitude to all existing stakeholders and potential users for their patience throughout this project’s completion, which has been hampered by unforeseen challenges. We eagerly anticipate opening all elements of this facility to serve the broader community.

For those interested in booking the venue, please visit the Council’s venue hire website - Bookable, or scan the provided QR code for direct access.

Ranger Nick Honoured with Australian Owned Achievement Award

In a competitive feld of contenders, Ranger Nick emerged victorious, securing the prestigious “Australian Owned Achievement Award 2024” in the recently announced Australian Owned Business Awards on May 7, 2024. Surprised by the announcement, Ranger Nick received a message from the judging panel praising his unwavering commitment to Australian ownership and excellence. The panel acknowledged the

stiff competition and commended Ranger Nick’s business as a leader in its domain.

Refecting on the unexpected news, Ranger Nick expressed his elation, stating, “I was on my way to the Capella Country Music Festival, after spending a few days in the scrub with no mobile reception, when I received the news. Needless to say, I am absolutely thrilled, fattered and honoured.”

This accolade marks Ranger Nick’s

third triumph in a year, following his recognition as a Finalist in the Australian Small Business Champion Awards and as a Winner in the Innovation and Sustainability Excellence category of The Australian Rural Business Awards.

Renowned as the charismatic Aussie Bush Cook, Ranger Nick embodies the authentic Australian spirit with his unwavering passion for Australian heritage and traditions. He has

dedicated himself to sharing his camp oven cooking and bushcraft skills with fellow adventurewrs across the country and abroad.

With four published books, his own merchandise line, and notable appearances on television and radio, including Channel 7Mates’ “Step Outside with Paul Burt” and West Bremer Radio, Ranger Nick’s infuence continues to grow.

Grateful for the support he has received, Ranger

Nick humbly thanked his supporters, expressing his determination to continue his endeavors.

“I extend my heartfelt thanks to all for your unwavering support,” he said. “I better pull up my socks and keep on going.”

Ranger Nick eagerly anticipates receiving his offcial trophy at the Dayboro Annual Show in early July, marking another milestone in his illustrious career.

New Tourist-Friendly Signs on Pacifc Motorway to Boost Visits to Byron Shire’s Charming Towns

By Jeff Gibbs

Byron Shire is set to enhance its appeal to motorists on the Pacifc Motorway, with new signs promoting the tourist attractions and services of Mullumbimby, Brunswick Heads, and Bangalow. Anna Zycki, Transport for NSW Region North Director, announced that these eye-catching signs would be installed along both the northbound and southbound lanes as part

of the Pacifc Motorway project’s ongoing efforts to support towns that have been bypassed.

The installation aims to draw more visitors off the motorway by showcasing what each town has to offer, such as fuel, boating facilities, cafes, and rest stops. The signs will feature vibrant, large-scale images representing the unique attractions of each location. For Bangalow, the imagery captures the early morning

sunlight bathing its charming main street. Brunswick Heads will be represented by aerial shots of the crystal-clear waters at the mouth of the Brunswick River, and Mullumbimby’s sign will display the scenic hills with Mount Chincogan in the background.

These visually striking signs are part of a broader strategy seen in other bypassed communities like Wardell, Woolgoolga, Grafton, Nambucca,

and Kempsey, and will extend up to the Queensland border.

The selection of the images was made after extensive consultations with Byron Shire Council and local community members, ensuring that the signs not only attract tourists but also authentically represent the towns’ allure.

The installation process will begin this weekend and is expected to be completed by the end

of June, promising to enhance the visibility and accessibility of these charming towns to passing traveller’s and contribute positively to their tourism and economic development. For more information about bypassed town signs, go to the QR code below.

A Heartfelt Journey: One Father’s Solo Trek to Transform Lives with Lifestart Disability Services

Scott Berry, a devoted Australian father, is embarking on a transformative journey from Brisbane to Sydney, cycling solo to raise vital support for Lifestart Disability Services, an organization that has been a lifeline for his family for over two decades.

Commencing his heartfelt mission on Thursday, May 16th, Scott, a dedicated father of three from Kellyville, will pedal his way from Komatsu’s offce in Brisbane to a jubilant reception awaiting him in Sydney, spanning a challenging 9-day trek –all in honour of Lifestart.

Lifestart extended a helping hand to Scott, his wife Julia, and their three sons over twenty years ago when their son Nathan was diagnosed with Autism as a toddler. Now 24 years old, Nathan stands as a

shining example of the transformative power of Lifestart’s support and early intervention, leading a happy, independent life and contributing positively to his Hills community.

Motivated by gratitude and a deep love for his family, Scott seized an opportunity provided by his employer, Komatsu Construction, to undertake a personal challenge for a charitable cause. For Scott, it was a chance to pursue his passion for cycling while giving back to the organization that profoundly impacted his family’s journey.

A poignant reunion awaits at the fnish line on Friday, May 24th, where Nathan’s longtime therapist, Louise Ulliana, a speech pathologist, will surprise the Berry family. The reunion holds special signifcance as the Berrys credit Louise

with positively shaping Nathan’s life during his formative years.

The critical importance of early intervention in childhood development cannot be overstated, and Lifestart’s support was pivotal in guiding Nathan’s educational

journey, including the crucial transition to primary school.

Beyond providing support within the NDIS framework, Lifestart recognizes the holistic needs of families and communities, offering initiatives like Start

Strong Pathways and Speak UP to empower children and their support networks.

Through generous donations, Lifestart ensures that families receive comprehensive support beyond NDIS, fostering educational opportunities and building essential life skills. With dedicated professionals like speech pathologists and occupational therapists, Lifestart profoundly impacts the trajectory of children’s lives.

Scott, accompanied by family members, Nathan’s therapist, and a Lifestart representative, will be available for interviews and visual opportunities upon the completion of his inspirational ride.

For further details, including a VNR of the Berry family and b-roll of Lifestart, please visit the provided link.

About Lifestart: Lifestart is committed to supporting children and young people with disabilities, along with their families and communities, to realize their full potential. Through tailored support programs delivered by passionate Allied Health Professionals, Lifestart empowers children to thrive and lead fulflling lives.

Established in 1996 by eight visionary families seeking greater involvement in their children’s care, Lifestart has grown from a single classroom program to serving over 10,000 children annually across New South Wales. Believing in the right of every child to full inclusion within their communities, Lifestart strives to make this vision a reality through unwavering dedication and support.

Grafton to host Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award Regional Cook-Off

Australia’s longestrunning culinary competition for emerging chefs is coming to Grafton!

Northern New South Wales’ (NSW) budding young chefs, aged 16-24, will battle it out at the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Awards regional heat on Wednesday 29 May, 2024 at TAFE NSW - Grafton. The cook-offs will take place in locations across Australia and New Zealand between May and July, with the NSW

Regional competition consisting of two heats in Newcastle and Grafton.

Assessed to globally recognised standards, each chef will have two and a half hours to prepare and present two plates of a main course and a dessert to the panel of judges.

The participant who scores the highest points from the NSW Regional heats will progress to the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award Grand Final at Melbourne’s Fine Food

Expo – the largest food service expo in the Southern Hemisphere –in September.

The 12 regional fnalists from around Australia and New Zealand will go head-to-head over two heats in front of a live audience to determine one national winner.

The 2024 Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year will be announced at an exclusive industry awards ceremony and receive an international culinary experience valued at $10,000 ^!

Careers will be made in Grafton

With the support of Nestlé Professional, the Australian Culinary Federation and NZChefs, the Golden Chef’s Hat Award has provided a springboard for more than 8,000 chefs to advance their careers.

Nestlé Executive Chef and Golden Chef judge, Elke Travers said: “Since 1965, Nestlé Professional has supported the future of the food service industry through

the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award and celebrated local aspiring chefs.

“From Coffs Harbour to Yamba, this year’s Grafton cook-off participants will showcase the local region’s exceptional culinary talent, while gaining industry recognition and opening doors to career-making opportunities.” Chef Elke said.

Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award 2008 and 2009 national fnalist and Executive Chef at

the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Dylan Sanding said: “The regional cook-offs provided me with an invaluable opportunity to connect with world-class chefs and mentors – it’s a fantastic platform to encourage and inspire the future champions of our local foodservice industry.”

For more information on the Grafton regional cook-off, please visit goldenchefs.com.au.

Nathan & Scott Berry

Nestle Golden Chef’s Hat Award

Nestle Golden Chef’s Hat Award 2023 Grand Finalists

Kyogle Council Celebrates

Fourth Annual Kyogle Readers and Writers Festival

Kyogle Council is proud to announce its support for the 2024 Kyogle Readers and Writers Festival, set to take place over three days this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

This year’s festival boasts an impressive lineup of esteemed authors, including the lively host of ABC’s Gardening Australia, Costa Georgiadis, and the multi-award-winning Bundjalung writer, Melissa Lucashenko.

Mayor Kylie Webster expressed her excitement, stating, “The Kyogle Readers and Writers Festival highlights the vibrant cultural and artistic community in Kyogle and its surrounding villages, drawing visitors from across the North Coast and south-east Queensland.”

The event features a diverse program catering to primary and high school students, with workshops covering topics such as weaving, bookmaking, selfpublishing, Zines, and performance poetry. Additionally, attendees can enjoy author conversations, panel discussions, and various interactive sessions.

The festival’s highlight event will be a captivating conversation between Costa Georgiadis and Angela Catterns, taking place in the KMI Hall on Saturday afternoon at 2 pm. The festival will conclude with a literarythemed trivia night at the Kyogle Golf Club on Saturday evening.

Mayor Webster encouraged everyone to explore the festival’s program on the Kyogle Readers and Writers website and participate in the diverse range of activities offered.

For more information and the festival schedule, visit www. kraw.com.au/.

Ballina Bound: 2025 State Championships Heading to Northern Rivers

Bowls NSW is thrilled to announce Ballina as the host of the 2025 and 2027 State Championships. The Northern Rivers Region will welcome over 900 competitors to the area, with Cherry Street Sports, Club Lennox Sports and Alstonville Bowls Club securing the venue hosting rights.

Bowls NSW CEO Tim Rowe is thrilled to bring the State Championships to another regional hub after the success of the 2024 event in Dubbo. “We have made a concerted effort to adjust the way we deliver our major events with a stronger focus on regional areas of NSW. An event like this delivers over $1.5m in economic impact to a community and it is important that we look to support regional Australia by moving these events to areas that will beneft signifcantly from them. These locations have so much to offer, and I am certain that the Northern Rivers

Region in March is an ideal location given the weather and holiday destination that this area is known to be. What a great excuse for our players to bring their friends and families away for a few days in the region. I should also note the incredible state of the greens in this region and the facilities that the clubs here offer. I congratulate the clubs from this region on how they have presented themselves. We have no doubt that 2025 and 2027 will take the delivery of

our State Championships to the next level.”

Cherry Street Sports will be the main host venue for the 2025 State Championships, and Club CEO Tere Sheehan cannot wait for the opportunity. “We are immensely proud to have been awarded the Bowls NSW State Championships for both 2025 and 2027. This recognition allows us to represent our region and showcase our top-notch facilities to the entire state. Our Proft-forPurpose business model

is centered on giving back to our community, and by hosting this prestigious event, we continue to support the foundational values of our club.”

The 2025 State Championships will attract thousands of players and spectators to the Ballina area over a 16-day period, including some of the best bowlers in Australia and the world. Mayor of Ballina Shire Council Sharon Cadwallader is excited at the opportunity of bringing a major

sporting event like the State Championships to the Region. “Hosting the 2025 and 2027 Bowls NSW State Championships is a monumental achievement for the Ballina Shire and highlights our region’s capacity to bring together top-tier sporting events that showcase our exceptional facilities and hospitality. This is not just a win for the bowlers but for the entire community as it brings signifcant economic and social benefts. We are thrilled to provide a scenic backdrop and a warm welcome to all participants and their families. The Ballina Coast and Hinterland Region is ready to make these championships a memorable experience for everyone involved.”

The 2025 Bowls NSW State Championships will start on Tuesday 25 March 2025 and continue until Wednesday 9 April 2025.

BUDGET 2024: SUPPORTING THE NORTH COAST

Local Labor MP

Justine Elliot has hailed the Albanese Labor Government’s 2024 Budget as a vital source of relief for residents on the North Coast, emphasizing its focus on Australian-made solutions for the future.

“This Budget is a lifeline for every Australian and particularly for those in my electorate of Richmond. The people of the North Coast are facing signifcant challenges, and this Budget steps up to provide immediate assistance when it’s needed most,” Justine remarked.

“It introduces tax cuts for all taxpayers and relief on energy bills for households across our region,” she added.

The Albanese Labor Government’s Budget addresses the cost of

living with a range of measures, including:

• Tax cuts for every Australian taxpayer commencing July 1, benefting 71,000 individuals in the electorate of Richmond.

• A $300 energy rebate for each household.

• Reduction in prices for commonly used medications.

• A 10% increase in Commonwealth Rent Assistance, benefting 9,375 households in Richmond.

• Alleviation of approximately $3 billion from student HECS debt, supporting 19,704 individuals with a HELP debt in Richmond.

• Initiation of home construction projects nationwide, including a $1 billion allocation for housing aiding women, children feeing domestic violence, and young Australians.

• Enhancing support for working parents by adding superannuation on top of Paid Parental Leave.

• Provision of an additional 24,100 Home Care packages to cater to the needs of older Australians.

“This Budget further expands on the cost-of-

living measures already implemented by the Government, such as reduced childcare costs, cheaper medicines, and fee-free TAFE,” Justine explained.

“It aligns with our government’s two-year focus on addressing cost-of-living pressures while ensuring a

Labor MP Justine Elliot

sustainable future for Australia.

“We’re investing in an Australian future, emphasizing clean energy and new technology as transformative opportunities. By investing in energy and skills, we’re paving the way for more employment opportunities and fair wages on the North Coast.

“Crucially, the relief provided in this Budget doesn’t add to infationary pressures, showcasing our commitment to easing the burden on Australians.

“This Budget aims to train more skilled workers, construct more homes, expand bulk billing, and provide greater access to TAFE or university education,” Justine concluded.

State Champs

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

Producers took advantage of a few days of fne weather

WARWICK

MC DOUGALL & SONS

LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK & DISTRICT W/E 1//05/2024

Agents and vendors were pretty consistent with the numbers yarded this week for both Beef and Sheep & Lambs. The cattle numbers of 1179 head were consistent with last week as well as Sheep & Lamb numbers of 1712 head. The markets were frm to a shade easier for the trade and processing types but the lighter and feed on stock was in high demand, as well as fnished trade and export types.

Vealer steers av 329.4c/kg topping at 396.2c/kg or $783.45 to $1123.01

Vealer heifers av 240.9c/kg topping at 320.2c/kg or $523.51 to $820.58

Feeder steers av 312.1c/kg topping at 350c/kg or $1093.49 to $1488.00

Feeder heifers av 263.1c/kg topping at 308.2c/kg or $883.39 to $1343.58

Yearling steers av 286.3c/kg topping at 330c/kg or $786.67 to $1530.45

Yearling heifers av 279.7c/kg topping at 390.2c/kg or $895.44 to $1866.46

Steers av 270.6c/kg topping at 313.2c/kg or $1466.22 to $2433.50

Heifers av 249.3c/kg topping at 308.2c/kg or $1095.39 to $1540.14

to move cattle, resulting in a larger yarding of 1,675 head at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) in Casino today, Wednesday, May 15.

There was a good supply of cows, with the main increase in numbers seen in young cattle, including vealers, weaners, and an increased number of yearlings. The quality was mixed, with some lighter young cattle starting to show the effects of the wet weather, though a fair percentage of good quality cattle were present in the sale. The market was frm to slightly dearer for well-bred cattle. Restocker weaner steers sold from 274c to 400c, averaging around 345c to 350c/kg. Restocker weaner heifers sold from 228c to

Cows av 203.5c/kg topping at 245.2c/kg or $1067.56 to $2191.44

Bulls av 244.5c/kg topping at 280.2c/kg or $1328.67 to $2638.16

Lambs topped at $195 to av $135.27 ($23 up)

Hoggets topped at $130 to av $95.78 ($20 down)

Ewes topped at $94 to av $70.13 ($19 up)

Wethers topped at $100 to av $89.67 ($37 up)

Rams topped at $120 to av $86.42 ($12 up)

Lamb rams topped at $170 to av $119.71 ($32 up)

Sale total of 1712 head was $109.83 up by $19/ head week on week.

Pork numbers were limited but were frm on previous rates, Sows sold to $182, Boars sold to $98, Stores sold from $70 to $149, Hens sold to $30, Roosters to $22.50, Pullets to $45, Guinea Fowl to $15, Turkeys to $15, Drakes to $35, Groups of Ducklings sold to $30, Guinea Fowl to $12.50, Chicks to $10

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

Vendors and Agents combined to present 1712 head to the local weekly sale. The yarding consisted of 1712 head, the break down was 60/40 lamb to mutton. The market was fully frm for the trade and feed on types in the lambs, the heavy export weights eased slightly. Mutton was strong as some good lines made as good as over the hooks rates. Light lambs and feed on types were keenly contested.

Lambs topped at $195 to av $135.27 ($23 up), Hoggets topped at $130 to av $95.78 ($20 down), Ewes topped at $94 to av $70.13 ($19 up ), Wethers topped at $100 to av

294c/kg.

There was a good run of yearling steers, most of which went to backgrounders, with prices 10c dearer, ranging from 250c to 348c/kg. Yearling heifers sold up to a top of 298c/kg.

The yarding of export cattle included a few pens of grown steers and heifers, along with a good penning of cows. Grown steers sold from 258c to 278c, an increase of 10c, while grown heifers reached a top price of 270c/kg. The cow market was 10c to 15c dearer, with 2 score cows SELLING FROM 188C to 215c, 3 scores averaging 213c, and 4 scores selling from 228c to 248c/kg. This report was compiled by Doug Robson from Meat & Livestock Australia.

$89.67 ($37 up ), Rams topped at $120 to av $86.42($12 up ), Lamb rams topped at $170 to av $119.71 ($32 up). The total yarding of 1712 head averaged $109.83 a jump of $19/head week on week.

Tom & Tracie Cooper sold Dorset x lambs of feed 62.75kg to Thomas Foods for $195, ram lambs 62.75kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $150

Vermont Past Co sold 1st x Dorset lambs 53.3kg to GR Prime for $166, 53.3kg to Thomas Foods for $164, 51.32kg to Eversons for $158

Gary Cartwright sold Xbred lambs off feed 48.1kg to Warwick Meats for $156, 44.5kg to Mc Intyre Meats for $135, st x lambs 46.6kg to Mc Intyre Meats for $131, Dorper x lambs 45.3kg to GR Prime for $149

Neville Baldock sold 55kg Dorper lambs to Take IT Easy Meats for $169, 46.5kg to restockers for $158, 32.5kg to GR Prime for $97

JCD Past Co sold Dorper lambs 50.7kg to GR Prime for $168, 45kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $141

Kim Aisthorpe sold Dorper lambs 49.6kg to Eversons for $162, 48.7kg to Warwick Meats for $158, 42.5kg to GR Prime for $130, 38kg to GR Prime for $98

Warwick Ryan sold Dorper lambs 32.8kg to restockers for $81

Giltrow Family sold Dorper ewes to Thomas Foods for $92, Eversons for $90, Mc Intyre Meats for $80, Ewes to retockers for $71

Cooinda P/S sold Dorper x lambs 45kg to restockers for $149, 42.2kg to GR Prime for $126, Hoggets 44kg to GR Prime for $85

CONTACT US - The Northern Rivers Times Rural Edition ✆ 1300 679 787 SALES 02 6662 6222 sales@heartlandmedia.com.au Albury - 02 6080 9520, Casino - 02 6662 6222, Dubbo - 02 5858 4078, Grafton - 02 5632 3041, Moree - 02 6794 3889, Tamworth - 02 5719 1656, Wagga Wagga - 02 5940 8516 Directors, co-owners and co-founders: Jeffrey Gibbs and Sharon Bateman ISSN: 2652-7928 a Genesis Media company ABN: 84 134 238 181 All rights reserved © 2024 Distribution Coffs Harbour north to Southport and west to Tenterfield weekly.

Farmers Make the Most of Fine Weather to Move Cattle at NRLX in Casino

Better be-leaf it: celebrating International Day of Plant Health

In commemoration of the International Day of Plant Health on May 12, 2024, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry is spotlighting the signifcance of regional collaboration in safeguarding plant health.

Regional achievements in plant health will be lauded during the Plant Biosecurity Research Initiative (PBRI) Symposium, a two-day event held at the Cairns Convention Centre on May 8 and 9. The symposium aims to foster better coordination among industry stakeholders, researchers, and governments to protect plant health.

Gabrielle VivianSmith, Australia’s Chief Plant Protection Offcer, emphasizes the critical role of plants in sustaining our region’s ecosystems. She underscores the staggering impact of plant pests and diseases, which annually result

in the loss of 40% of food crops globally, with rural communities bearing the brunt.

Vivian-Smith highlights the department’s commitment to research and innovation to combat these challenges and support farmers’

livelihoods.

One notable initiative involves researching the effcacy of ethyl formate in controlling the khapra beetle at Australian borders, alongside collaborative efforts with the Queensland government

to mitigate seasonal incursions of exotic fruit fy. Additionally, the department is enhancing biosecurity measures domestically and fostering partnerships with neighbouring countries to ensure regional plant health.

Recent endeavour’s include departmental visits to ‘highbiosecurity-risk’ sites in Honiara, where collaboration with Solomon Islands’ counterparts facilitated the detection of exotic plant pest threats.

As the Biosecurity Protection Levy looms for consideration in the senate today, the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) issues a fnal, impassioned plea to senators, underscoring the critical importance of standing in solidarity with Australian farmers and decisively voting to #ScraptheTax.

NFF President David Jochinke conveys a sense of urgency, acknowledging the persistent threat posed by the levy’s potential passage, despite months of concerted opposition from within the agricultural sector and throughout the broader supply chain.

Expressing profound dismay, Jochinke laments the apparent disconnect between the government’s stance and the genuine concerns voiced by farmers nationwide.

He emphasizes the government’s failure to engage in meaningful dialogue, address substantive issues, or heed the resounding call

to reconsider this deeply unpopular policy.

In a remarkable display of unity, the NFF and its extensive membership, representing the full spectrum of Australia’s agricultural commodities, have mobilized to send an unequivocal message: the Biosecurity Levy is unjust, ill-conceived, and detrimental to the livelihoods of Australian farmers.

Jochinke further underscores the troubling disregard exhibited by the government towards expert advice, including recommendations from reputable bodies such as the Productivity Commission and the Australian National University. He highlights the levy’s potential to confer a competitive advantage to foreign competitors, while burdening local farmers with unnecessary fnancial constraints.

With a rallying cry, the NFF implores senators, particularly those from the Greens and the crossbench, to heed the

voices of farmers and independent experts alike. They call upon the senate to fulfll its vital role as a check on rushed and fawed policy initiatives, emphasizing the imperative of thorough scrutiny and critical evaluation.

In essence, the NFF’s message to the senate is clear: Australian farmers deserve better. By voting to #ScraptheTax, senators have the opportunity to demonstrate their unwavering support for the agricultural sector and uphold the interests of the communities they represent.

For more background on the Biosecurity Protection Levy, see the QR code.

Furthermore, Papua New Guinea’s National Agriculture and Quarantine Inspection Authority will host biosecurity offcers from Solomon Islands to exchange insights on target pests and surveillance techniques, aligning with the department’s Pacifc Biosecurity Strategy. The PBRI symposium will encompass diverse topics such as varroa mites in honeybees, the Indigenous Ranger Biosecurity Program, and biosecurity risks in the wine industry. In addition to acknowledging regional achievements, it’s worth noting that the United Nations designated May 12 as the International Day of Plant Health in 2022, emphasizing the vital role of plants in sustaining life on Earth. With plants contributing 80% of the food humans consume and generating 98% of the oxygen we breathe, safeguarding their health is paramount for global well-being.

Dr. Gabrielle Vivian-Smith conducting an inspection of a coconut rhinoceros beetle grub in Fiji.

NFF sounds the alarm on superannuation tax impost

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) reiterates its signifcant concerns regarding the potential ramifcations of the Federal Government’s proposed tax adjustments on superannuation, particularly highlighting the adverse impact it may have on numerous family-owned farms.

Evidence presented by fnancial and tax experts during a Senate Economics Committee Inquiry underscores the disproportionate burden these changes could impose on the agricultural sector, potentially leading to dire consequences such as the necessity for families to divest their farming assets.

The report of the Inquiry into the Economics Legislation Committee Treasury Laws Amendment (Better Targeted Superannuation Concessions and Other Measures) Bill 2023 was released late last Friday, preceding the

legislation’s scheduled debate in the lower house this week.

Tony Mahar, Chief Executive of the NFF, expressed dismay that the fnal report seemingly neglects to address the concerns raised by the NFF regarding the potential adverse effects of the reform on small businesses and family farms.

Mahar emphasized the profound impact these reforms could have on succession planning for family farms, particularly due to the unique structure

of farming businesses. Many farmers opt to manage their homes and businesses through Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs), rather than making conventional superannuation contributions.

In numerous cases, older farmers utilize SMSFs to hold their farms and subsequently lease them to their children, thereby ensuring retirement income for themselves while facilitating the transition to the next generation of farmers.

The NFF is deeply apprehensive that the proposed taxation of ‘unrealized gains’ on holdings could escalate tax obligations to the extent that farmers are compelled to sell land assets to meet their tax liabilities. Given the substantial land values juxtaposed with the modest cash income typically generated from farming, this new tax could constitute a signifcant proportion of a farmer’s annual retirement income, if not surpass it altogether.

Such a scenario

presents a distressing dilemma for farmers: either sell their farms to fulfll the new tax obligations or increase lease rates to such an extent that their own children and grandchildren are unable to afford them, potentially driving them away from the industry.

The NFF’s concerns resonate throughout the inquiry, with evidence from the SMSF Association indicating that over 17,000 accounts in 2021/22 held farming land, and more than 3,500 of these

would be impacted by the new tax. Moreover, it is anticipated that this fgure could escalate substantially in the ensuing years if the Government persists in refraining from applying indexation to the base threshold.

Various organizations, including The Tax Institute, Financial Advice Association of Australia, and the Institute of Financial Professionals Australia, have echoed similar apprehensions during the inquiry, highlighting the unjust burden placed on farmers and the potential repercussions of the changes, including the forced sale of farms.

Mahar stresses the imperative for the Government to reevaluate this tax policy and elucidate how it will mitigate adverse effects on everyday farming families, emphasizing that such consequences were assuredly not the intent of these reforms.

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

ANDY GOLLEDGE BAND - ‘YOUNG, DUMB & WILD’ ALBUM TOUR

PREPARE YOURSELF FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE MUSICAL ADVENTURE AS THE ANDY GOLLEDGE BAND EMBARKS ON THEIR ‘YOUNG, DUMB & WILD’ ALBUM TOUR 2024.

Slated for release on April 19, 2024, the album captures the essence of life’s transitions, celebrating the beauty of ageing, the excitement of new love, and the thrill of exploring new environments.

The title track, ‘Young, Dumb & Wild,’ stands out as a powerful anthem that transcends

superfcial notions of youth to delve into the core of creative freedom. This single follows the earlier release of ‘Country Band’ in late 2023, a lively road trip anthem that celebrates the many forms of love in various relationships. Together, the tracks weave a seamless narrative, encapsulating the highs and lows of life’s twists and turns.

Andy Golledge, a prominent fgure in the Australian alt-country scene, aims to deliver a mature and cohesive experience with this album, showcasing his unique ‘Alt-Countryesque Dad Rock’ style.

Following the success of his debut album, ‘Strength of a Queen,’ which won ‘Best Independent Country Album/EP’ at the AIR Awards 2023, Andy Golledge continues to make waves in the music scene. His debut album charted impressively on ARIA’s Top Vinyl Albums and Australian Country Albums, earning nominations at the ARIA Awards 2022 and CMAA Golden Guitar Awards 2023.

An Andy Golledge show promises to be both exhilarating and unpredictable. The band features some of the most respected

musicians in the Australian alt-country/ Americana scene, including Leroy Lee (guitar/vocals), Caitlin Harnett (banjo/vocals), Nick Ryan (bass), and Josh Piltz (drums). Their performances range from tender moments that bring tears to rollicking numbers that make you dance wildly. Don’t miss the chance to experience the spectacle of the ‘Young, Dumb & Wild’ Album Tour. Grab your tickets now and pre-order the album, available with exclusive merch bundles you won’t want to miss!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When – Friday 24th of May at 6:30pm

• Where – Bangalow Bowlo

• Price – from $33.40

• Tickets – Via the QR code.

NUMBER CRUNCH

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

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 What is the capital city of Norway? (a) Helsinki (b) Oslo (c) Copenhagen (d) Reykjavík

2 The ARIA Music Awards were first awarded during which decade? (a) 1980s (b) 1970s (c) 1960s (d) 1950s

3 Which country would you be in if you were at King Abdullah Sports City? (a) Armenia (b) Saudi Arabia (c) Yemen (d) Bahrain

4 What is the smallest perfect number? (a) Six (b) One (c) Three (d) Five

5 Who started on pole position for the 2024 Australian Formula One Grand Prix? (a) Lewis Hamilton (b) Max Verstappen (c) Charles Leclerc (d) Valtteri Bottas

6 Which country shares the shortest land border with Slovenia? (a) Hungary (b) Croatia (c) Austria (d) Italy

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 FULGENT

(a) Shining

(b) Tawny

(c) Readily shed

2 MACULATE

(a) To spot

(b) To moisten

(c) To tease

3 TANTIVY

(a) At full gallop or speed

(b) Slow in pace or movement

(c) With reckless boldness

4 OSCITANT

(a) Yawning

(b) Pertaining to the mouth

(c) Swinging to and fro

5 VENAL

(a) Excusable

(b) Acting by poison or by sorcery

(c) To be bought

FRIDAY

SILENT WITNESS

ABC, 8.30pm

After working together for more than a decade, the writers of this long-running forensics procedural most likely grew tired of the will-they-or-won’t-they tension between Nikki (Emilia Fox, pictured) and Jack (David Caves) and resolved to be done with it and let them fall in love. It’s a bold move that has irked some, but the general grumpiness about this season should arguably be directed at the imsy writing. Twenty-six seasons in, the characters and script don’t hum with the vigour and believability that was once trademark but, for some, the fact the characters are still alive and kicking is enough. In “Star Part 1”, the underbelly of social media and in uencers is explored after a death at a music festival.

FRIDAY, May 24

SATURDAY

JUMANJI: THE NEXT LEVEL

SEVEN, 7.30pm

This action-packed sequel doubles down on the success of 2017’s Jumanji reboot, Welcome to the Jungle, to excellent e ect. Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Kevin Hart, Karen Gillan (pictured), Nick Jonas and the four teen leads are all back, joined by Awkwa na, Danny DeVito and Danny Glover. Two years after their last adventure, Spencer (Alex Wol ) and the gang have grown up, gone to di colleges and drifted apart. Drawn back into the game, Spencer goes missing in the real world and his friends team up with his grandpa Eddie (DeVito) and his friend Milo (Glover) to rescue him. It’s a tad confusing from there, as only Martha (Morgan Turner) is playing as the same avatar (Gillan), but it’s just as fun, fresh and creative as its predecessor.

TUESDAY

SECRET SCIENCE

ABC, 9pm

Whether you’re down in the dumps or on top of the world, one thing remains certain: the realm of human emotions is fascinating and complex. In this educational and playful series, much-loved host Myf Warhurst (pictured) is untangling everything we need to know about the six core emotions, how our brains are wired to react a certain way and how we can in uence how we feel. Last week’s premiere basked in everything about one of the most coveted emotions: joy. Tonight, the pendulum swings in its opposite direction, to the intensity of anger. Warhurst discovers there’s a thin line separating its destructive power and the constructive anger that sparks change.

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 Miniseries: The Cry. (Mal, R) 3.00 Further Back In Time For Dinner. (R) 3.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.45 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 18. 8.00 WorldWatch. 10.10 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. (R) 11.00 The Story Of Chocolate. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! (R) 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 18. H’lights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Hidden Family Secrets. (2018, PGav, R) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PGa)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. Millie Ross forti es her autumn plot.

8.30 Silent Witness. (Mad) A death at a music festival draws the team to the dark side of social media and online in uencers.

9.30 Gruen. (R) Wil Anderson and a panel of experts analyse the advertising industry and consumerism.

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

10.40 QI. (Ms, R)

11.10 ABC Late News.

11.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R)

12.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)

1.00 We Hunt Together. (MA15+al, R)

1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Abandoned Railways From Above. (PG)

8.30 Secrets Of The Lost Liners: Titanic. (Return, PGa) Looks at e orts to restore the memory of the RMS Titanic

9.30 Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters: A Big Find. (PGal, R) 10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 World On Fire. (Malv) 11.55 Catch And Release. (Mal, R)

3.15 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. (Ms, R)

4.05 Peer To Peer. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

The Chase. (R)

Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs catches up with Dr Chris Brown.

8.30 MOVIE: The Ugly Truth. (2009, MA15+s, R) A romanticallychallenged producer becomes embroiled with the chauvinistic host of a TV program who o ers to help her nd love so she can prove his theories about dating are correct. Katherine Heigl, Gerard Butler, Bree Turner.

10.30 To Be Advised.

12.05 Celebrity Obsessed: Alec Baldwin. (Ma, R)

1.05 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Buckley’s Chance. (2021,

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 12. Manly Sea Eagles v Melbourne Storm.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Manly Sea Eagles versus Melbourne Storm match, with news and analysis.

10.40 MOVIE: Survivor. (2015, Mlv, R) A state department employee is framed. Milla Jovovich, Pierce Brosnan.

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

1.35 Pointless. (PG, R)

2.30 Explore TV: Portugal & Spain. (R)

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)

(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm 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: A Time To Kill. (1996, M) 10.55 MOVIE: The Informant! (2009, M) 12.40am Would I Lie To You? 1.40 QI. 2.10 MOVIE: Kill Your Darlings. (2013, MA15+) 3.50 ABC News Update. 3.55 Close. 5.00 Hoopla. 5.15 Ready, Jet, Go! 5.25 Alva’s World. 5.40 Late Programs. ABC TV PLUS (22) 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 Children’s Programs. 5.45 MOVIE: Madagascar. (2005, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Finding Nemo. (2003) 9.30 MOVIE: Cats & Dogs. (2001, PG) 11.20 Dating No Filter. 12.20am Love Island UK. 2.20 Full House. 2.50 Transformers: Cyberverse. 3.00 Bakugan. 3.30 Beyblade Burst: Quad Drive. 4.00 Transformers: Prime. 4.30 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 4.50 Late Programs.

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

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

7.30 Ready Steady Cook. With ve secret ingredients at their disposal, two teams led by celebrity chefs go head to head in the kitchen.

8.30 To Be Advised.

9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mls, R) Graham Norton is joined by Laura Linney, Dawn French, London Hughes and Adrian Edmondson. 10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather.

10.55 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Cyberwar. Noon WorldWatch. 12.25 Most Expensivest. 1.20 Criminal Planet. 2.15 Bamay. 2.35 Over The Black Dot. 3.25

4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 The Yorkshire Steam Railway: All Aboard. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

(64) SBS MOVIES

9GO! (83) 6am Black Narcissus. Continued. (1947, PG) 6.55 Mosley. (2019, PG) 8.45 Mrs Lowry And Son. (2019, PG) 10.25 The Last Vermeer. (2019, M) 12.35pm Cordelia. (2019, M) 2.15 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 4.10 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 5.50 The Thief Lord. (2006, PG) 7.40 6 Days. (2017, M) 9.30 Dead Man Down. (2013, MA15+) 11.40 Free Fire. (2016, MA15+) 1.15am The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest. (2009, MA15+, Swedish) 4.00 Cordelia. (2019, M) 5.40 The Thief Lord. (2006, PG)

(52)

ITM Fishing Show. 7.00 Merv Hughes Fishing. 7.30 Creek To Coast. 8.00 A Football Life. 9.00 America’s Game: The Super Bowl Champions. 10.00 Blokesworld. 10.30 American Restoration. 11.00 American Pickers. Noon Pawn Stars. 1.00 Counting Cars. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Building Giants. 4.30 Storage Wars. 5.00 American Restoration. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. 8.00 Football. AFL. Round 11. Fremantle (Walyalup) v Collingwood. 11.00 Late Programs.

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

B D N

A A U

N C E

Today’s target: 12 words average 16 words good 22+ 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

Thursday’s Full Moon motivates you to be adventurous, and then Jupiter shifts into your study and local travel zones. So this week is all about education and exploration. With your ruler Mars charging through your sign, it’s imperative to strike while the iron is hot! Be inspired by music pioneer (and fellow Aries) Diana Ross: “You can’t just sit there and wait for people to give you that golden dream. You’ve got to get out there and make it happen for yourself.”

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Quit wasting time, Taurus! The Sun, Venus and Jupiter are spending their last days in your sign, which provides a golden opportunity to fine-tune who you are and where you’re going … quick smart! The fiery Full Moon also pushes you to draw up a creative plan, as you start transforming your dreams into reality. Be inspired by birthday great Stevie Nicks: “Dreams do come true, but not without hard work, determination, and a little bit of magic.”

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

It’s a big week for Geminis, as the Sun, Venus and Jupiter all transit into your sign. So it’s time to be creative, cooperative, adventurous and generous. Over the next 12 months, make the most of travel and prosperity planet Jupiter jumping through your sign as you explore, experiment and enthuse. Here, there and everywhere! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Bob Dylan (who turns 83 on Friday): “There is nothing so stable as change.”

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

The Full Moon fires up your wellbeing zone, so it’s time to focus on your health. Have you been burning the midnight oil and now you’re suffering from burnout? Or have you been running around on autopilot, making careless mistakes? The Sun, Venus and Jupiter shift into your solitude zone, so slip into hermit Crab mode as you slow down, simplify your life, prune projects or organise a digital detox. Meditation, contemplation, and relaxation are a must.

Thursday’s Full Moon fires up your creativity zone, so you’re in the mood to dance, draw, paint, perform, play music and/or sing up a storm! Then Jupiter jumps into your hopes-and-wishes zone, where it stays until June 2025. So it’s time to set goals for the future and make long-term plans. And don’t make them too safe and sensible. Go for gold, as generous Jupiter helps you envision ambitious dreams and inspiring schemes over the coming year.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

The Sun, Venus and Jupiter cruise into your career zone. So – if you want to get ahead – strive to work smarter, not just harder. And, if you choose to take on a professional challenge in the coming year, you’ll find the benefits will far outweigh the difficulties. When it comes to a complicated family matter, avoid quick fixes. Instead, be patient and do all the research that’s required. Virgo vigilance and close attention to details will result in a satisfactory solution.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Lady Luck is calling, as Venus (your power planet) links up with prosperity planet Jupiter. So it’s a good week to enter a competition, buy a lottery ticket, start a new job or go on a first date. With Jupiter transiting into your travel zone, foreign shores beckon over the next 12 months. So start planning your itinerary now – and make sure you keep up to date with your international contacts.

Thursday’s Full Moon highlights social media, education and conversation.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

This week’s stars fire up your financial zones.

Thursday’s Full Moon could bring money matters to a head. Then luck and loot are linked from May 26 onwards, when Jupiter (planet of good fortune) transits through your money-fromothers zone. So – over the coming year – expect a boost to your bank balance via a pay rise, work bonus, superannuation payout or extra business. Any windfall won’t last long if you don’t manage it wisely though.

The Sun, Venus and Jupiter (your patron planet) transit into your partnership zone. So – when it comes to close relationships – it’s time to be creative, cooperative, adventurous and generous. Attached Archers – pamper your partner and show them they are Number One. Unhappily single? True love is on the way, as long as you believe. Your mantra is from birthday great Stevie Nicks (who turns 76 on Sunday): “I live in the realm of romantic possibility.”

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19) Thursday’s fiery Full Moon highlights your humanitarian side. Being of service to others (with kindness and compassion) brings joy and satisfaction. Plus take the time to savour and enjoy the simple things in your everyday life –like a kiss from a child or a walk in the park. Then Jupiter (planet of good fortune) jumps into your work and wellbeing being zones on the weekend, which is good news for health matters and job satisfaction for the rest of the year.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) With the fiery Full Moon activating your bohemian side and Jupiter jumping into your selfexpression zone, it’s time to do your own thing, in your own highly individual way. Don’t play it too safe though. Forge your own path and follow your unique dreams. The more adventurous and inventive you are, the luckier you’ll be! Draw inspiration from birthday great Cher: “The people who make a difference in the world are the ones who aren’t afraid to be themselves.”

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Thursday’s Full Moon fires up your career zone, so it’s a good week to set professional goals, apply for a job or seal a business deal. Then prosperity planet Jupiter transits into your domestic zone on the weekend. So sometime over the next 12 months is a great time to redecorate, renovate, build an extension, sell property, buy a

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

HORIZON

There is a place between sea and sky – a sacred realm, where the sun rises and falls and the light is new.

From two of the world’s great First Nations comes a brandnew work: Horizon. Some call it a feeling, some call it the mother spirit. It’s the place where sea meets sky, the horizon we all look to, the compass that guides us home.

In Bangarra Dance Theatre’s frst main stage cross-cultural collaboration, leading Māori choreographer Moss Te Ururangi Patterson joins beloved Bangarra alumna Deborah Brown. Together they guide the award-winning ensemble in stories that honour their mother countries and the spirit that calls them home.

Brown is a proud

descendent of the Wakaid Clan and Meriam people in the Torres Strait, with heritage from far across the seas in Scotland. She carries strength and resilience from her ancestors. Patterson was born in Turangi near Lake Taupō, and describes the sense of home as something alive, that he carries like a beating heart.

To open the program, Saibailayg (Saibai

Islander) Sani Townson expands his acclaimed work Kulka, debuted in Dance Clan in 2023, to make a thrilling opening piece paying homage to Sani’s grandfather and his Torres Strait heritage. Come explore the cultural forces that bind us together, across oceans and eons. Experience the resilience of the First Peoples of the Oceania region, that extends across the

continent now known as Australia, the Torres Strait Islands and Aotearoa, our southern neighbour.

Horizon is a double bill opening with Kulka by Bangarra alum Sani Townson, followed by the primary piece, The Light Inside, choreographed by Bangarra alum Deborah Brown and Māori choreographer and Arts Laureate Moss Te

ITALIAN RENAISSANCE ALIVE

Experience the beauty and brilliance of the Italian masters in “Italian Renaissance Alive,”

an immersive journey celebrating Europe’s cultural rebirth. This extraordinary exhibition,

• When - 8-17 of August

• Where - QPAC

• Price - from $59

• Tickets - Via the QR code

from the creators of Van Gogh Alive, takes you on a mesmerising adventure through the 14th to 17th

centuries, showcasing masterpieces by some of history’s most renowned artists, including Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Caravaggio, and more.

“Italian Renaissance Alive” brings to life the era’s explosion of art, culture, architecture, sculpture, and literature. As you step into this breathtaking digital multi-sensory gallery, you’ll be surrounded by the grandeur and elegance that defned the Renaissance period. The exhibition is designed to immerse you in the sights and sounds of the time, creating an unforgettable experience that transcends

traditional art displays.

Witness iconic works like the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel ceiling, the enigmatic Mona Lisa, and the enchanting Birth of Venus. These masterpieces are presented in stunning detail, allowing you to appreciate the intricacies and genius of the artists’ techniques. Accompanied by a powerful operatic musical score, the exhibition enhances your sensory experience, evoking the emotions and atmosphere of the Renaissance.

Through “Italian Renaissance Alive”, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the

cultural and intellectual movements that shaped the modern world.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be transported back in time and experience the Renaissance like never before.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When - on until the 4th of August

• Where - HOTA, Gold Coast

• Price - from $29

• Tickets - Via the QR code

Ururangi Patterson. EVENT DETAILS:

Varroa Development Offcers Provide Practical Support to Beekeepers in NSW

In a signifcant move to combat the persistent threat of Varroa mites, New South Wales (NSW) has introduced eight new Varroa Development Offcer (VDO) roles. These roles are part of the broader National Varroa Management program and follow a national agreement to transition to a Varroa mite Transition to Management Plan (T2M), adopted by the National Management Group (NMG) in February 2024.

The Varroa mite, a parasitic pest affecting honeybees, has become a signifcant concern for beekeepers worldwide. In NSW, the appointment of VDOs aims to provide beekeepers with the necessary tools and knowledge to manage this pest effectively. These offcers will offer practical assistance and vital information, playing a crucial role in building skills, resilience, and understanding among beekeepers.

The shift to a T2M plan marks a strategic change in how Australia addresses the Varroa

mite problem. The NMG’s decision in September 2023 to move towards management rather than eradication refects the growing recognition of the challenge posed by this pest. The plan focuses on enhancing industry resilience, preparedness, and knowledge, ensuring that beekeepers are well-equipped to handle the ongoing presence of Varroa mites.

NSW has been proactive in implementing these measures due to the widespread presence of Varroa mites within the state. The quick establishment of VDO roles demonstrates a commitment to equipping beekeepers with the necessary skills to manage the pest effectively. This proactive approach is essential in minimising the impact of Varroa mites on the beekeeping industry.

A critical aspect of the management plan is the emphasis on monitoring and reporting. Beekeepers are encouraged to report their monitoring results, which are crucial for

understanding the current spread of Varroa mites.

These results are made available on the Varroa heat map, accessible via the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) website.

The VDOs are also closely involved in the training and education program currently underway in NSW. This program covers various aspects of Varroa mite management, including monitoring and reporting actions, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), record-keeping requirements, and different treatment methods such as mechanical, chemical, and organic options. Through these efforts, beekeepers are provided with comprehensive guidance on managing the pest.

Beekeepers interested in learning more or participating in upcoming workshops can visit the Varroa Management Training tab on the dedicated NSW DPI Varroa Mite website. Additionally, the VDO network can be contacted directly by

calling 1800 084 811.

Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said:

“The Varroa Development Offcers will work with individual beekeepers as well as beekeeping clubs to provide practical, hands-on assistance to build skills, resilience and understanding as Australia transitions to managing this pest.

“These roles will eventually roll out across the rest of Australia, but NSW, where Varroa mite is present, needed to move quickly and decisively to meet the needs of this very important industry.

“The VDOs will work hand in hand with the extensive training program which has also commenced in NSW, with locations and dates for training being released regularly.

“These skills will be key to ensuring a robust and resilient beekeeping and honey industry, worth $147 million across Australia, ensuring it can continue to support our nations pollination-reliant industries worth over $16 billion annually.

NFF condemns shock timeline for live sheep phase-out

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has strongly condemned the Government’s abrupt announcement of a radical four-year timeline to phase out live sheep exports, leaving farmers stunned and reeling from the implications.

NFF CEO Tony Mahar expressed deep disappointment, labelling the move as a reckless leap towards catastrophe for farming communities, animal welfare, and Australia’s global trading relationships.

Mahar emphasized the inadequacy of the proposed $20 million annual support package, deeming it grossly insuffcient compared to the signifcant investments made by farmers in their businesses. He criticized the Government’s handling of the issue, accusing them of neglecting proper consultation, withholding crucial information, and announcing the package mere days before the budget reveal, all while espousing false claims of collaboration with industry stakeholders. Furthermore, Mahar highlighted the detrimental impact of the decision on Western Australian farmers, who are already grappling with the fallout of the policy. He underscored the Government’s disregard for the distressing situation unfolding in WA and

lambasted their conduct as a disgraceful betrayal of farming communities.

The NFF stressed that the repercussions of the policy extend beyond domestic economic and social implications, warning of adverse consequences for Australia’s international partnerships and animal welfare standards. Mahar emphasized the risk of exacerbating poor animal welfare outcomes and turning a blind eye to the demands of crucial Middle Eastern trade partners.

Moreover, the NFF cautioned against the legitimization of extreme animal activism at the expense of farmers’ livelihoods, asserting that ideological-driven policies pose a grave threat to agricultural industries nationwide.

Mahar condemned the Government’s pandering to fringe activists and called for unifed opposition against policies that sacrifce the interests of hardworking farmers for political gain. In conclusion, Mahar rallied farmers to stand frm and continue the fght against the misguided policy, urging resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity. He affrmed the essential role of farmers in global food production and pledged unwavering support in overturning the detrimental decision imposed by the Government.

By Helen Trustum

Five kilometres down the river from Lismore’s Ballina Street Bridge boat ramp, rounding a sharpe though wide bend, creates the pointing promontory named Sandy Point. At the southern end of the now abandoned meat works, is a cut into the steep western bank ending at a concrete ramp where the Gundurimba Ferry would pull in. On the opposite side of the river is farmland featuring a gentle sweeping cut with dressed stones visible at low tide. These approaches on either side bear the words “Beware Submarine Cable” are the remains of the Gundurimba Ferry. Gundurimba played an early role in the British invasion of the Wilsons River. Cedar getters frst established themselves in 1842 at Codrington, soon after at Wyrallah. When a severe drought hit in 1843, the loggers were attracted to the “well grassed plain” and tree flled ridges at Gundurimba. They soon set up camp on both

sides of the river. The town of Gundurimba was proclaimed in 1859, three years after Lismore.

By 1871, Gundurimba had a population of 202 on both sides of the river. There were several shops, a hotel, post offce, school, shipwright, horse riding track, a Church of England and a slaughter yard. The same year the residents petitioned the Government for a ferry to be established, to no avail. Then in 1885 they tried again for a ferry at Gundurimba. Finally in 1887 the punt was offcially proclaimed a government ferry. The fares were set the same as other ferries in the district.

For every foot passenger – twopence

For every horse, mare, mule drawing or not drawing – sixpence

For every gig, dray or cart – 1 shilling

For every wagon, dray or vehicle with four wheels – 1 shilling & sixpence

For every ox or head of cattle – threepence

For every sheep, lamb,

pig or goat – 1 shilling & twopence

Gundurimba now had their own ferry. The connection between Gundurimba and South Gundurimba was secured. On 1st January 1902, all 88 hand operated ferries in the eastern districts of NSW were transferred to the newly formed shires.

The Gundurimba ferry became the responsibility of the newly formed Gundurimba Shire Council. Shortly afterwards the Government abolished ferry tolls, except between 11pm and 6am. The night toll was established in 1924.

For its entire existence until 1961, the Gundurimba Ferry was hand operated. Getting the ferryman’s attention was not easy. The ferry was generally moored on the eastern side near the cottage. During the 1950’s, on the South Gundurimba side of the river, a ploughshare with a large bolt tied to a rope, was used to get the ferryman’s attention with a load clanging noise.

A constant danger to

the ferry were ships travelling up and down the river. Vessels would have to give four whistle blasts above Sandy Point to signal their approach. It soon became clearer that the west side ferry approach was too steep. It was fne for people on foot and on horse, yet a gravel surface was required. In February 1936, Harry Seed was taking a load of pigs across the river to the Lismore Saleyards. The vehicle’s front wheels made it on the bank, but the rear wheels pushed the ferry back and they became imbedded in the mud. After unloading the pigs, another lorry came from Lismore to pull the truck out.

By 1960, it was decided to close the ferry due to costs and traffc decline.

In May 1961, the ferry sank, due to a major hull failure. The local Government approved the closure on 14th July 1961.

Ferry Drivers –Benjamin Edwards, MemoriesJohn Cooper: Referring to a letter by 81 year old John Cooper

from Tomki, Casino in the Richmond River Herald dated 31st July 1936, it stated that his father was the frst man to take up land on the North Arm. He secured 12 acres on the southern side of the river near the Gundurimba Ferry and where the Abattoirs stood. Looking at a map there is S M Cooper mentioned, right on the bend of the river near the ferry.

John Goodwin: We lived across the highway in South Gundurimba. My sister rode her bike and travelled across the ferry to school.

Robert Hayes: I worked with the livestock carrier of a Thursday of each week picking up calves around Coffee Camp and West Nimbin. They would then be taken to Fredericks Abattoirs. I think Hutleys were there from 1964 -65.

Luke Patch: I remember Steve Harmon doing all the welding and ftting when it was rebuilt.

Robert Maxwell: I worked at the Binadaree Abattoirs during the 1980’s as a stockman.

I remember planting all those gum trees that grace the driveway as you drive in. I can remember seeing the ferry approach, it was very visible at the time right next door to the abattoir.

Jim Pearce: I spent a lot of time growing up with my maternal grandparents Ben and Doris Edwards at Gundurimba. Earliest memory is centered on the ferryman’s cottage which was occupied by my Grandparents around 1948. Aunty Lou Edwards was the Postmistress. An important job for the ferryman was to drop the ferry cable to allow passage of the ocean going vessels, “Wyangarie” or “Wyrallah” to pass on their way to Lismore.

Mike Hooke: I worked at the Abattoirs.

Elizabeth Benetti: Back in 1940-41, my Dad was the Health Inspector for the Municapality of Lismore also a Meat Inspector. His job was working with the Shires, inspecting the

Cream boat on the Richmond River

By Helen Trustum

Slaughter Houses in the area. I went with Dad before school to all these places. We went to Fredericks and Hutleys who supplied butchers, Jackson and Ward and several other butchers in Lismore.

Brian Jarvis: My Dad Bob Jarvis worked for Jack Fredericks – early 1950’s to 1955.

Edna Small: I attended the Gundurimba Public School between 1943 and 1947. The teachers at the time were Mr Massey and Mr McCrohan. There were several families of children from South Gundurimba that travelled across the ferry each day to attend school. I remember Miss Edwards and from memory a Mr Edwards

ran the ferry. It was a busy little community, with a school, hall and a tennis court.

Peter Fitness: I came to Lismore from Sydney just before Christmas 1953, to work in the family butchering business, owned by my mother’s brother, J.C. (Jack) and A.K. (Keith) Fredericks. I lived in South Gundurimba with my Uncle Keith and Aunt Elsie, until I was married in May 1960. We lived right above the Gundurimba ferry approach, so it was very much a part of our lives at that time. The ferryman was George Willis, who lived with his wife and family in a cottage on the eastern approach.

My Uncle owned a paddock on Gundurimba Road, an extension of Keen Street and we had to dip the cattle every three weeks, meaning we had to take ourselves and our horses across the river. We usually left home quite early so, to save us waking him up, George would bring the ferry over to our side, secure it, then row his boat back home. Being the junior member of the group, I usually had the job of winding the handle that propelled the ferry, which I didn’t mind, as it was all a new experience for me. Sometimes we would take cattle across, as the ferry had two sets of gates, the inner set forming a pen in the

middle of the ferry, which could hold six to eight head. I’m not sure when the ferry fnally fnished, I think it was during a food in the early 1960’s, but it was before Ballina Street Bridge was opened in September 1963. We then had to go through Lismore to access the paddock, which we did, loading the horses on a small truck.

I commenced working in the family slaughter yards, adjacent to the ferry approach in January 1954. It was a typical, small country yards, extremely primitive by modern standards, involving much hard labour. We would only kill eight or ten a day, starting

at 5am, the rest of the day was spent working around the paddocks. This included fencing etc. My Uncles also bred racehorses. I often spent time ploughing, using a grey Ferguson tractor, planting lucerne, eventually harvesting it, stacking it in a big shed and fnally chaffng it using a tractor and belt driven chaff cutter.

In 1956, we built a new, much more modern (for the time) abattoir, with electric winches and saws. This was added to over the years, including refrigerated cool rooms and a loading dock which could accommodate semitrailers. In 1988 we sold the abattoir to John McDonald, who

traded as Yolarno, in Casino. He changed the name to Bindaree Beef. By this time, I had two sons, David and Tim, working with me. Davd and I left the business in 1990. Tim stayed on in quality control until the McDonald Family sold it to Casino Abattoirs several years later. It has had a chequered history since then, and now lies seemingly abandoned with coral trees blocking the view from the main road.

Ref: Parts taken from article “Crossing the River at Gundurimba” by Rob Garbutt printed in Richmond River Historical Bulletin November 2021.

Also, great help from Peter Fitness, Wyrallah.

Gundurimba Ferry - 1926

Bindaree Abattoirs showing ferry approach.

Gundurimba Ferry sinking in the river. Front page of Northern Star - 30/6/1947.

Don’t Miss Out! Early Bird Tickets Now on Sale for the 2024 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Gala Dinner & National Announcement

The National Winner and Runner Up of the 2024 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award will be announced at a Gala Dinner at the Great Hall, Parliament House in Canberra on Tuesday, 20 August 2024. The prestigious event celebrates female-led ingenuity in the regions.

The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, with the support of platinum sponsor Westpac, showcases the critical role women play in rural, regional and remote businesses, industries and communities.

The annual Gala Dinner is an opportunity to celebrate the forwardthinking, courageous leaders who come from industries across some of the remote areas of Australia, including each of the State and Territory winners, Kate Lamason (QLD), Rebecca Keeley (NSW/ACT), Grace

Larson (VIC), Belle Binder (TAS), Nikki Atkinson (SA), Mandy Walker (WA) and Tanya Egerton (NT).

2023 AgriFutures

Rural Women’s Award

National Winner Nikki Davey will be the event MC with the black-tie evening attended by award alumni, government offcials, industry and private sector representatives and media. The event

is open to the public to purchase tickets.

AgriFutures Managing Director John Harvey said the long-running Award is a salute to the wonderful contribution that Australian women are making in the regions.

“The Gala Dinner is an event that champions the remarkable contributions of the 2024 cohort and is an opportunity to honour these

extraordinary women who are the pillars of our rural and regional industries, businesses, and communities,” Mr Harvey said.

Background Information

Now in its 24th year, the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award has gained a signifcant profle, growing in prestige and popularity, and is recognised as a program of infuence

among parliamentarians, industry, media and Award Alumni.

Each state and territory winner receives a $15,000 grant for their project, business or program, access to professional development opportunities and alumni networks.

The National Winner and Runner Up will receive an additional grant of $20,000 and

$15,000, respectively, thanks to the awards platinum sponsor, Westpac.

AgriFutures Australia is committed to the future growth and advancement of the Award as a means of identifying, celebrating and empowering women.

The Rural Women’s Award is one of many AgriFutures Australia initiatives ensuring our rural industries prosper now, and into the future. For more information about the awards and to buy tickets, see the QR code below.

New one-stop shop to attract,

support and promote women in building

Master Builders Association of New South Wales, in collaboration with the NSW Government, proudly announces the launch of Women Building NSW, a comprehensive digital platform designed to attract, support, and champion women in the building and construction sector.

Unveiled on May 13, 2024, the Women Building NSW website represents a significant stride towards fostering inclusivity and diversity within the industry. This innovative initiative offers a centralized hub of resources and support tailored to women, young girls, parents, employers, and consumers alike.

Brian Seidler, Executive Director, underscores the pivotal role of Women Building NSW in empowering women to pursue enriching careers within the dynamic realm of building and construction. With the industry serving as a cornerstone of economic growth and development, Seidler highlights the imperative of harnessing the diverse talents and skills of women to drive progress.

Despite the industry’s substantial footprint, statistics reveal a significant gender disparity, with women comprising only 15% of the workforce and a mere 3% of tradies. Seidler emphasizes the vast potential inherent in tapping into this underutilized talent pool to address chronic workforce shortages and meet the pressing demands of NSW’s housing crisis.

Bob Black, NSW President, affirms the Women Building hub as a valuable resource offering comprehensive guidance and support to navigate the various pathways available to women in the industry. By consolidating information and resources, the platform aims to streamline access to opportunities and empower women to thrive in traditionally male-dominated domains.

Central to the Women Building NSW initiative is the provision of a diverse array of features and resources, including a detailed Job Guidebook covering over 100+ career options, a business start-up booklet tailored for aspiring female entrepreneurs, and resources for parents, teachers, and career advisors. Additionally, the platform offers insights into upcoming pre-apprenticeship courses, apprenticeship opportunities, and resources to support employers in fostering gender diversity within their organizations.

The project has been made possible through funding from the Trade Pathways Program - Training Services NSW, underscoring the collaborative effort between industry stakeholders and government entities to effect positive change. For those eager to explore the wealth of resources and opportunities available through Women Building NSW, the website can be accessed at http://www. womenbuildingnsw. com.au.

Australian unemployment increases in April to 9.7% - overall labour underutilisation at highest since October 2020

In April 2024, Australian ‘real’ unemployment increased 177,000 to 1,535,000 (up 1% to 9.7% of the workforce) despite overall employment remaining near its all-time high at over 14.2 million. In addition to the increase in unemployment, there was also a slight increase in underemployment, up 18,000 to 1,594,000. These combined increases mean a massive 3.13 million Australians (19.8% of the workforce, up 1%) were unemployed or underemployed in April – the highest level of total labour under-utilisation for over three years since October 2020 (3.15 million) during the early months of the pandemic.

The April Roy Morgan Unemployment estimates were obtained by surveying an Australia-wide cross section of people aged 14+. A person is classified as unemployed if they are looking for work, no matter when. The ‘real’ unemployment rate is presented as a percentage of the workforce (employed & unemployed).

• Overall employment remains near all-time record high at over 14.2 million in April:

Australian employment was down slightly by 35,000 to 14,232,000 in April. A significant fall in part-time employment drove the decrease, down 261,000 to 4,903,000 while full-time employment increased by 226,000 to 9,329,000.

• Unemployment increased in April with 177,000 more Australians looking for work:

In April 1,535,000 Australians were unemployed (9.7% of the workforce, up 1%), an increase of 177,000 from March driven by more people looking for both full-time and part-

time work. There were 669,000 (up 74,000) looking for full-time work and 866,000 (up 103,000) looking for part-time work.

• Overall unemployment and under-employment increased by 1% to 19.8% in April:

In addition to the unemployed, a further 1.59 million Australians (10.1% of the workforce) were under-employed, i.e. working part-time but looking for more work, up 18,000 from March. In total 3.13 million Australians (19.8% of the workforce) were either unemployed or under-employed in April.

• Comparisons with a year ago show rapidly increasing workforce driving employment growth:

The workforce in April was 15,767,000 (up 142,000 from March and up a massive 717,000 from a year ago) – comprised of 14,232,000 employed Australians (down 35,000 from a month ago) and 1,535,000 unemployed Australians looking for work (up 177,000 from a month ago).

Although unemployment and under-employment remain high at 3.13 million – the highest combined figure since October 2020 during the early months of the pandemic, there has been a surge in employment over the last year – up by a large 418,000 to a near record high of 14,232,000.

ABS Comparison

Roy Morgan’s unemployment figure of 9.7% is more than double the ABS estimate of 3.8% for March but is approaching the combined ABS unemployment and under-employment figure of 10.3%.

The latest monthly figures from the ABS indicate that the people working fewer hours in March 2024 due to illness, injury or sick

leave was 537,100. This is around 146,000 higher than the prepandemic average of the five years to March 2019 (391,300) – a difference of 145,800.

If this higher than pre-pandemic average of workers (145,800) is added to the combined ABS unemployment and under-employment figure of 1,541,200 we find a total of 1,687,000 people could be considered unemployed or under-employed, equivalent to 11.4% of the workforce.

Michele Levine, CEO Roy Morgan, says total Australian unemployment or under-employment has increased to its highest in over three years at 3.13 million in April – 19.8% of the workforce – with over 1.5 million people either unemployed or under-employed:

“The latest Roy Morgan employment estimates for April show total Australian unemployment or under-employment (also known as labour underutilisation) has increased 195,000 to 3,129,000 (19.8% of the workforce, up 1%).

’Real’ unemployment increased 177,000 to 1,535,000 (9.7% of the workforce) and underemployment increased by 18,000 to 1,594,000 (10.1%).

“This is the first time in over a year that both unemployment and under-employment have increased in the same month with the two usually moving in opposite directions. The increase means overall labour under-utilisation is now at its highest for over three years since October 2020 (3.15 million) during the early days of the pandemic.

“The labour force has experienced rapid change over the last year with a large increase in population (+717,000) – a rate almost three times higher than the average annual population growth over the last 25

years of 287,000. This population increase has been the driver of a growing workforce, up by 667,000 to a record high of over 15.7 million in April 2024.

“In turn, the increasing workforce has led to large rises in both employment, up 418,000 to over 14.2 million, and unemployment, up 249,000 to 1,535,000. As well as unemployment increasing 249,000, under-employment is up by 254,000 – a combined figure of 503,000 more Australians either unemployed or underemployed than a year ago in April 2023.

“The figures show that although new jobs are being created, there are not enough jobs being created to soak up the nearly 700,000 people who joined the workforce over the last year and increasing numbers of Australians are becoming unemployed or underemployed.”

“The sustained increase in unemployment and under-employment over the last year shows the labour market is struggling to provide the right jobs for all those joining the workforce. Tackling this continuing high level of unemployment and under-employment must be the number one priority for the Federal Government which is due to hand down a pre-election Federal Budget this week.”

This Roy Morgan survey on Australia’s unemployment and ‘under-employed’* is based on weekly interviews of 974,626 Australians aged 14 and over between January 2007 and April 2024 and includes 6,020 telephone and online interviews in April 2024. *The ‘underemployed’ are those people who are in parttime work or freelancers who are looking for more work.

Australia offers some of the best landscapes and adventurous road trips in the world. Whether you’re cruising along the iconic Great Ocean Road, exploring the rugged Outback, or meandering through lush rainforests, choosing the right vehicle for your journey is crucial. With such a large distance between places, it is essential that you have a vehicle that’s equipped for long drives and comfort. As well as having places to sleep, as hotels can be costly and incontinent. From motorcycles to buses, each mode of transport has its unique advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore the best types of vehicles to travel Australia in, helping you decide which one suits your adventure style.

Motorcycles are the epitome of freedom and adventure.

Traveling Australia on a motorcycle offers an unparalleled sense of connection to the environment. The wind in your hair, the unobstructed views, and the thrill of the open road make for an unforgettable experience.

• Mobility and Flexibility: Motorcycles can navigate through traffc, reach remote

areas, and park with ease.

• Cost-Effective: Generally cheaper on fuel and maintenance compared to larger vehicles.

• Sense of Adventure: The feeling of freedom and exhilaration is unmatched.

• Limited Storage: Packing light is essential, which can be challenging for extended trips.

• Weather Exposure: Riders are exposed to the

elements, making it less comfortable in adverse weather conditions.

• Safety Concerns: Motorcycles offer less protection in case of accidents.

Motorcycles are ideal for solo travellers or couples looking for an adrenaline-fuelled adventure. The Great Ocean Road, with its winding coastal routes, is particularly popular among motorcyclists.

Vans have long been a favourite for road trippers, offering a blend of comfort and convenience. They provide more space for luggage and can be easily converted into a cosy home on wheels.

• Versatility: Vans can be adapted for sleeping, cooking, and storage, making them perfect for extended trips.

• Comfort: More protection from the elements and a more

comfortable ride than motorcycles.

• Affordability: Vans are generally more affordable than larger motorhomes or caravans.

• Space Limitations: While more spacious than a motorcycle, vans still have limited living space.

• Mainly 2wd: Since most vans aren’t 4x4, it limits you to sticking t o the pavement, not being able to explore some harder to reach places.

• Curved Everything: When building a van camper, every surface that you work on is curved, making it hard if you have no craftsmen experience.

Vans are perfect for those who value fexibility and comfort. Popular routes for van travellers include the East Coast from Sydney to Cairns where 4x4 isn’t needed for majority of the trip.

For those looking to explore Australia’s rugged terrain, a 4x4 vehicle is the best choice. These vehicles are designed to handle off-road conditions, making them ideal for adventures in the Outback and remote areas.

• Off-Road Capability: 4x4s can tackle rough terrain, from sandy deserts to rocky trails.

• Durability: Built to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring reliability on long journeys.

• Flexibility: Allows access to remote locations that other vehicles can’t reach.

• Cost: Higher purchase price and fuel consumption, as well as the risk of damaging the vehicle on the track.

• Comfort: You will need to either sleep on the ground in a tent or

swag, giving you limited protection if the weather is bad, and also meaning you have to set up and pack up every day.

A 4x4 is essential for exploring iconic Australian destinations like the Kimberley, Simpson Desert, and Fraser Island. These vehicles offer the freedom to venture off the beaten path and experience Australia’s wild beauty.

Motorhomes offer a luxurious way to explore Australia, combining transport and accommodation in one. These self-contained units provide all the amenities needed for a comfortable journey.

• All-in-One: No need to set up camp; everything is within reach.

• Comfort: Spacious

interiors with beds, kitchens, bathrooms, and even living areas.

• Convenience: Park anywhere and enjoy the comforts of home.

• Features: Motorhomes generally are full of high quality features such as batteries, bathrooms, full kitchens, air-cons and much more.

• Cost: High purchase and rental costs, along

Caravans provide the comforts of home while on the road. They are towed by a car or 4x4, offering fexibility and space for families or groups. They are one of the most popular ways to travel for older Australians and families for long distance stays.

• Comfort and Space: Plenty of room for sleeping, cooking, and relaxing.

• Convenience:

Equipped with amenities like kitchens and bathrooms.

• Flexibility: Detach the caravan and use your vehicle for day trips.

• Manoeuvrability: Can be challenging to drive and park, especially in urban areas.

• Fuel Consumption: Towing a caravan increases fuel usage due to the weight, wind drag etc.

• Cost: Not only do

you need to purchase the caravan, but also a car capable of towing it, which means two registrations, insurances, repairs etc.

Caravans are ideal for families or travellers planning extended stays in one location. Popular caravan routes include the coastal drive from Melbourne to Adelaide and the scenic loop around Tasmania.

with signifcant fuel consumption.

• Size: Can be challenging to drive in narrow or winding roads and to fnd parking.

Motorhomes are perfect for those who want to travel in comfort and style. They are wellsuited for elderly drivers who aren’t looking to tow, and they are great if you are constantly moving around.

Converting a bus into a travel vehicle is an option for large groups or families wanting a spacious, mobile home. Buses offer extensive space and can be customised to suit specifc needs.

• Space: Ample room for large groups and storage.

• Customisation: Can be outftted with various amenities for

a comfortable living experience.

• Durability: Built for long-distance travel and heavy use. They care also comfortable for large groups of people so they don’t need to squish into a car.

• Cost: High initial investment and ongoing maintenance expenses.

• Manoeuvrability: Diffcult to drive and park, especially in urban settings.

• Licensing: For majority of busses, you will need an upgraded license as it is over a certain weight and size range.

Buses are best for group travel or long-term adventures. Popular routes for bus travellers include the East Coast and the extensive routes across the Outback.

Sydney Landlords Ordered to Pay Tenant Thousands Over Excessive Rent in Dilapidated Unit

In a recent tribunal ruling, landlords in Sydney have been directed to compensate their tenant with over $7000 for overcharging rent on a poorly maintained apartment.

The one-bedroom unit in Potts Point had been leased to the tenant since around 2017, with a new lease signed when the landlords acquired the property in 2019.

Initially, the rent was set at $550 per week, later reduced to $480 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite an attempted increase to $540 in February 2022, this was withdrawn following the tenant’s application to the Civil and Administrative Tribunal. Throughout this period, the tenant argued that the rent paid was excessive due to the state of disrepair of the apartment, citing issues such as holes in the cornices, broken blinds and kitchen tiles, and torn vinyl foor coverings.

The landlords contended that the extent of disrepair was reasonable given the under-market rent being paid and disputed the impact on the

tenant’s comfort. They also cited delays in repairs due to COVID lockdowns and other personal issues. However, the tribunal found in favour of the tenant, ruling that the rent was excessive by 20% during the relevant period and ordering compensation of $5151. Additionally, the tribunal awarded the tenant $2500 in compensation for emotional distress caused by the state of the rental property. Further orders were made for the landlords to replace the dilapidated vinyl foor coverings and repair the bedroom wardrobe. Despite repairs to some issues being undertaken before the tribunal proceedings, the tribunal considered them as part of the excessive rent claim.

The ruling highlights the importance of landlords maintaining rental properties to a reasonable standard and responding promptly to tenant complaints about disrepair. It also underscores the tenant’s right to seek recourse through legal action when necessary.

Criticism Mounts Over Federal Budget 2024 Housing Package

The housing package unveiled in the 2024 federal budget, totalling $6.2 billion, has faced sharp criticism for its perceived inadequacy in tackling the affordability crisis, despite some groups welcoming the new initiatives.

The aim of the housing package is to unlock more affordable housing options, alleviate infrastructure bottlenecks, and bolster student housing without exacerbating infation. However, critics argue that the measures fall short of addressing the pressing housing

challenges faced by Australians.

Out of the $6.2 billion in new funding announced, $1.9 billion is allocated towards loans for the development of new social and affordable homes, while $1 billion is earmarked for ‘enabling infrastructure’ essential for connecting services to new housing developments, including roads, water, and power.

Although this funding adds to the over $11 billion in housing measures announced earlier, some of these initiatives were

repurposed funding and joint agreements with states and territories.

Maiy Azize, spokesperson for Everybody’s Home, expressed disappointment, stating that the government’s budget fails to alleviate the housing cost burden for Australians already struggling in a challenging housing market. Azize criticized the perceived lack of genuine funding for social housing, highlighting that much of it constitutes repackaged initiatives and loan offers rather

than real fnancial support.

Meanwhile, Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor criticized the government’s failure to address infation and the cost-of-living pressures experienced by households and businesses nationwide.

The reception to the housing package underscores the ongoing debate over the adequacy of government measures in addressing the housing affordability crisis, highlighting the need for more comprehensive and effective solutions.

Analysts Predict Cooling in House Price Growth Amid Interest Rate Uncertainties

By Jeff Gibbs

As the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) keeps interest rates steady, experts are forecasting a slowdown in house price growth during the upcoming winter months, infuenced by ongoing uncertainties about potential rate hikes. Despite this, a prevailing fear of missing out (FOMO) may drive buyers who have been sidelined, eagerly awaiting rate cuts.

Current Rate

Status and Economic Indications

The RBA’s recent decision to maintain the cash rate at 4.35% comes with a cautious note from RBA Governor Michele Bullock, suggesting further hikes could occur if infation remains unchecked. This announcement aligns with data from the March quarter showing stronger-than-expected infation, leading fnancial markets to adjust their expectations for a rate cut to no earlier than mid-2025.

Impact on Property Market Dynamics

Eleanor Creagh, a senior economist at PropTrack, noted that the market had previously benefted from a pause in rate hikes since November, resulting in robust price increases. However, she anticipates a moderation in this trend: “As we enter the typically quieter winter period and with rate cut expectations pushed to possibly early 2025, we expect to see a slight deceleration in price growth.”

Ben Burston, Chief Economist at Knight Frank, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the potential for a rate cut this year has signifcantly diminished following the RBA’s recent statements. He pointed out that while buyer caution regarding interest rates persists, the stronger drivers of market activity—such as rental price increases, limited housing supply, and population growth— continue to exert signifcant infuence.

Seller and Buyer Activity in a ‘Normal’ Market Environment

With disruptions like school holidays and public holidays now past, the real estate market is entering a period that will better refect standard conditions.

Upcoming auctions are set to increase notably, with over 2,548 homes scheduled this week—a 43% rise from the same period last year.

Anne Flaherty from PropTrack observed that unlike typical post-Easter trends, the market has seen a sustained high volume of listings. “Clearance rates are holding up well, averaging around 60% in recent weeks, which indicates continued strong buyer engagement,” she added.

Regional Variations and Market Segmentation

Cate Bakos, a Melbourne-based buyers’ advocate, described the current market as exhibiting a ‘two-speed’ dynamic, where wellpresented properties attract signifcant competition, whereas

less desirable listings are slower to sell. She also noted improvements in the availability of building materials and labour, which could infuence market activity.

While Victoria and New South Wales report higher listing volumes, markets in South Australia and Western Australia have experienced limited supply, contributing to continued price increases in Perth and Adelaide.

Future Expectations and Strategic Buying

Rich Harvey, a buyer’s agent, noted a prevailing hesitancy among buyers concerned about current interest rates, with many awaiting clearer signs of potential rate reductions. “Once rate cuts become more likely, we anticipate a resurgence in market demand,” Harvey stated.

Bakos predicts that the RBA’s decision to hold the rate will bolster buyer confdence, potentially prompting many to enter the market before any actual rate cuts, recalling the rapid price increases seen in 2021. “As soon as there’s talk of a rate drop or an actual rate drop, we’re anticipating that buyers will food in—and they don’t want to get swept up in that,” she explained.

In summary, while the Australian housing market may face a period of slower growth due to the interest rate environment, underlying factors such as low supply and high demand continue to support active market conditions.

Bendigo Bank Leads the Way in Home Loan Satisfaction

Bendigo Bank has emerged as the top choice for home loan customers in Australia, as revealed by a recent survey encompassing over 30,000 respondents from the nation’s ten largest banks.

The survey, released yesterday, highlighted Bendigo Bank’s exceptional customer satisfaction rate, standing at an impressive 87.7% over the six-month period ending March 2024, according to Roy Morgan. This fgure solidifes Bendigo Bank’s position well above the industry average, frmly establishing its leadership in customer satisfaction.

Richard Fennell, Chief Customer Offcer for Consumer Banking at Bendigo Bank, expressed pride in the bank’s customercentric approach, emphasizing the importance of fostering strong relationships with customers.

“At Bendigo Bank, we prioritize

building meaningful connections with our customers,” stated Mr. Fennell. “Our relentless commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes for each individual customer sets us apart. Over the past two years, we have made concerted efforts to engage with our home loan customers, ensuring that their loans align with their unique circumstances.”

“As we approach the colder months, we urge all Australians to reevaluate their home loan needs through Bendigo Bank’s Home Loan Health Check,” added Mr. Fennell. “Whether it’s refnancing, investing in property, or purchasing a frst home, Bendigo Bank stands ready to assist.”

Beyond boasting Australia’s most satisfed home loan customers, Bendigo Bank has earned recognition as the country’s most trusted bank, consistently ranking among the top 20 most trusted brands nationwide.

Patrick Pretlove, a 24-year-old Airline Cabin Manager who recently purchased his frst home in Geelong, commended Bendigo Bank for the support he received during the signifcant fnancial decision-making process.

“Bendigo Bank provided invaluable support throughout my application process,” shared Mr. Pretlove.

“Meri Dimovska, in particular, was incredibly responsive to my numerous inquiries and kept me informed every step of the way. Their dedication to customer care truly made a difference, and I wholeheartedly recommend Bendigo Bank to any prospective homebuyer.”

To explore Bendigo Bank’s diverse range of home loan products and conduct a personalized home loan health check, visit the Bendigo Bank website today.

Study shows 20 per cent of Australians are harmed by others’ drinking

A recent study conducted by La Trobe University, published in the Addiction journal, sheds light on the profound impact of excessive alcohol consumption on Australians, revealing that approximately 20% of adult Australians have experienced harm due to the drinking behaviors of acquaintances. The study delves into the repercussions on family members, friends, and colleagues.

Dr. Anne-Marie Laslett, the lead researcher, emphasizes the pressing need for policy reforms and enhanced services, particularly to support regional women and children who bear the brunt of family members’ drinking habits.

The research, spanning both urban and rural areas, unveils a disparity in the harm experienced, with women disproportionately affected, especially when residing with or being related to heavy drinkers.

Key fndings indicate that nearly two-thirds of participants reported the presence of heavy drinkers in their social circles, with over 22% acknowledging adverse effects from the drinking habits of acquaintances. Specifc instances of harm included emotional distress, neglect, and disruptions to familial roles.

Notably, 15% of women reported emotional distress compared to 8% of men, highlighting gender discrepancies in the impact of alcohol-related harm.

The priceless wellbeing benefts of art included in a Home Care Package

Furthermore, serious consequences such as verbal abuse, fnancial strain, and even physical or sexual harm were reported by some participants.

Dr. Laslett underscores the urgent need for comprehensive interventions, including targeted support services for women and youth affected by others’ drinking. While advocacy organizations like the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) and the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) have been championing harm prevention initiatives, immediate government action is imperative to address this multifaceted issue effectively.

Drawing from international research, Dr. Laslett suggests psychosocial interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and anger management, as effective strategies to alleviate the strain experienced by family members affected by others’ drinking habits. Tailored programs addressing intimate partner violence and alcohol abuse have shown promise overseas and warrant further exploration in the Australian context.

In conclusion, the study underscores the urgency of adopting a multifaceted approach encompassing policy reforms, targeted interventions, and enhanced support services to mitigate the far-reaching consequences of excessive alcohol consumption on individuals and their communities.

In a groundbreaking initiative, older individuals residing in their own homes are now relishing oneon-one sessions with professional artists as part of their home care packages, ushering in a novel approach that not only enhances wellbeing but fosters social connectivity.

Under the auspices of the Arts on Prescription @ Home program, HammondCare At Home has pioneered the provision of art lessons to its clients, encompassing those grappling with dementia, alongside the customary cleaning and personal care services typically offered by home care providers.

In certain instances, healthcare professionals, including general practitioners, may recommend clients to partake in artist visits, recognizing the inherent health benefts therein.

Lorraine Carroll, aged 87, and Roslyn Rooke, aged 69, are among the benefciaries of this

innovative endeavour, receiving visits from one of HammondCare’s 15 skilled artists who offer engagement through painting, singing, acting, and dancing. These sessions, fnanced through their home care packages, provide a diverse avenue for self-expression and enrichment.

Bay Warburton, General Manager of HammondCare At Home, underscores the organization’s commitment to holistic care, emphasizing the integration of physical, mental, clinical, and spiritual wellbeing within their service provision.

Lorraine, a retired dressmaker, revels in her regular sessions with

artist Shirley Cambitzi, delving into the intricacies of watercolour painting amidst landscapes, portraits, and still life compositions.

Shirley’s fortnightly visits, facilitated through HammondCare At Home’s Arts on Prescription @ Home program, serve as a source of accomplishment and respite for Lorraine, despite her mobility challenges.

Similarly, Roslyn, a resident of Carlingford, seized the opportunity to nurture her latent passion for art, embarking on a journey of self-discovery with artist Michelle Lo. Despite grappling with osteoarthritis, Roslyn fnds solace and fulfllment in her artistic

pursuits, with Michelle’s companionship serving as a beacon of joy and camaraderie.

Recent research published in The Journal of Ageing and Social Change corroborates the tangible benefts of the Arts on Prescription @ Home program, highlighting its capacity to engender enhanced social interaction, facilitate personal growth, and foster a sense of achievement among participants.

Professor Christopher Poulos, Director of HammondCare’s Centre for Positive Ageing and architect of the program, extols its potential to infuse homes with joy and vitality, particularly for individuals navigating the complexities of dementia.

To explore HammondCare At Home and its comprehensive range of services, visit their website at https://www. hammond.com.au/care/ home-care-services.

HammondCare artist Michelle Lo with client Roslyn Rooke, of Carlingford

Electric Vehicle Sales in Australia See First Decline in Over Three Years Amidst Ongoing Hybrid Boom

By Jeff Gibbs

In a notable shift in the Australian auto market, electric vehicle (EV) sales experienced their frst downturn since late 2020, marking the end of a signifcant growth period.

According to the latest industry fgures, EV registrations dropped by 5% in April, with 6,194 units sold compared to 6,530 in the same month last year.

This decline interrupts a streak of substantial growth for EVs, which had seen consistent triple-digit year-on-year increases since early 2021. The slowdown began in the latter half of 2023, transitioning to more moderate double-digit growth rates. Year-to-date, EV sales are up by 32%, a decrease from the 46% increase recorded in the frst quarter of 2024.

Tesla, a leading name in the EV market, saw a signifcant sales decrease of 44% yearon-year to 2,077 units, despite remaining the top-selling EV brand in April. The company has recently announced further price reductions for its Model 3 sedan and Model Y SUV in an effort to boost sales.

Meanwhile, Chinese automaker BYD

reported a 26% increase in year-on-year sales, driven by the new Seal sedan, though its Atto 3 SUV saw a substantial 63% drop in sales.

Other newcomers to the Australian EV market, including models from Ford, Subaru, and Toyota, have yet to make a signifcant impact.

Hybrid vehicles, on the other hand, continue to see explosive growth. Hybrid sales surged by 195% in April 2024 compared to the same month in the previous year, with year-to-date sales of combustion-electric vehicles also up nearly 140%. Plug-in hybrids are enjoying a similar uptick in popularity.

Diesel vehicles have also shown positive movement, with a 14% increase yearto-date following a 22% rise in April. In contrast, petrol vehicle sales have remained relatively fat, showing a slight decrease in April.

This shifting landscape raises questions about whether April’s downturn in EV sales is an isolated incident or an early sign of Australia aligning with trends of declining EV sales observed in markets like the US and Europe.

2025 Porsche 911 Hybrid production starts

By Jeff Gibbs

Production of the highly anticipated Porsche 911 hybrid has commenced following an extensive testing phase, with the German automaker boasting that it surpasses its petrol-only counterpart in terms of speed.

Scheduled for its global debut in Europe on May 28, 2024, Porsche has already revealed impressive performance metrics for the 911 hybrid. Clocking a blistering lap time of 7:16.934 minutes around the demanding Nurburgring Nordschleife race circuit, the hybrid variant outpaces its predecessor by a signifcant 8.7 seconds. While Porsche has not specifed the exact model of the previous 911 being

referenced, it’s evident that the hybrid iteration is geared towards performance, more akin to the Carrera or Carrera S variants rather than the track-focused GT3 RS. Renowned as a benchmark for automotive prowess, the Nurburgring Nordschleife presents a challenging 20.8-kilometer layout, featuring a diverse range of corners and surfaces. This exceptional lap time underscores the 911 hybrid’s dynamic capabilities and positions it as a formidable force on both road and track.

While Australian availability has yet to be confrmed, Porsche frst hinted at the development of a hybrid 911 with the introduction of the eighth-generation ‘992’ model in 2019.

As part of a mid-life

facelift for the current 911 lineup, the hybrid variant is slated for release in 2025, aligning with Porsche’s ambitious target of electrifying over half of its new vehicle sales by 2025 and achieving 80% electric sales by 2030.

Details regarding pricing, trim levels, and nomenclature for the 911 hybrid remain undisclosed. However, speculations suggest it may adopt the moniker “Porsche 911 t-Hybrid,” following the trademark registration of ‘t-Hybrid’ by the company. Notably, the hybrid powertrain may depart from Porsche’s signature fat-six engines, potentially incorporating a four-cylinder petrol engine supplemented by electric propulsion. Drawing inspiration from Porsche’s

illustrious motorsport heritage, particularly its successful 919 endurance racing program, the 911 hybrid is anticipated to channel the technological advancements and performance prowess demonstrated by its racing counterparts. Although not designated as a plug-in hybrid, akin to the Porsche 918 hypercar, the 911 hybrid is poised to leverage insights gleaned from Porsche’s current LMDh endurance racing program.

With Porsche’s hybrid endurance racers already clinching victories in prominent events like the World Endurance Championship and IMSA series, the 911 hybrid promises to be a gamechanger in the realm of high-performance electrifed vehicles.

By Jeff Gibbs

Revolutionary Electric GMC Hummer EV Ute Confrmed for Australian Market

Electric vehicles are revolutionizing the automotive industry, and the latest entrant to the electrifed arena is the iconic GMC Hummer EV pick-up. With the frst right-hand-drive conversion underway, Australia is poised to welcome this electrifying behemoth as part of a global export initiative.

The 2024 GMC Hummer EV pick-up, renowned for its rugged prowess and cuttingedge technology, is set to make its mark Down Under, thanks to a strategic partnership with Global Conversions based in the United Arab Emirates. As pioneers in vehicle conversions to right-hand drive, Global Conversions specializes in adapting vehicles predominantly sourced from the United States to meet the specifc requirements of international markets.

Under the skilled hands of Global Conversions, the Hummer EV pick-up is undergoing rigorous testing and evaluation following its transformation from left-hand drive to righthand drive confguration. This milestone marks the commencement of a comprehensive export program spanning across 77 countries, with Australia positioned

By Jeff Gibbs

Genesis Australia is gearing up for an expansion of its product lineup, with the eagerly anticipated introduction of the GV90 SUV expected to be the brand’s next groundbreaking model. Following the unveiling of the Neolun concept earlier this year, the GV90 is poised to join Genesis Australia’s rapidly growing portfolio of luxury vehicles.

In a recent interview with Drive, Justin Douglass, head of Genesis Australia, revealed plans to bolster the current portfolio by

at the forefront of this ambitious endeavour.

Chairman Suresh Edirisinghe has affrmed Global Conversions’ commitment to producing the Hummer EV pick-up in right-hand drive, catering to the discerning tastes of Australian customers.

Both the entry-level two-motor and the more powerful three-motor versions of the Hummer EV pick-up, equipped with all-wheel drive and all-wheel steering as standard, will be made available for Australian enthusiasts. While exact pricing

and availability details for the Australian market are yet to be disclosed, the US pricing for the two variants provides an initial insight. The base ‘2x’ two-motor version starts from $US98,845 ($AU149,879), while the

higher-spec ‘3x’ threemotor version commands a price of $US106,945 ($AU162,062). These fgures refect the Hummer EV pick-up’s formidable capabilities, with the ‘3x’ variant boasting a staggering

745kW of power and a range of 613km between recharges.

Powered by General Motors’ cutting-edge Ultium battery technology, the Hummer EV pick-up promises blistering performance coupled with impressive effciency. Its 800V architecture facilitates rapid charging, with up to 160km of range achievable after just 10 minutes of charging. These features position the Hummer EV pick-up as a formidable contender in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape.

Genesis Australia expansion plans

adding at least one more model, with the goal of achieving a total of six models by 2030. While Genesis Australia boasts an impressive lineup, including the G70 and G80 sedans, the GV70 and GV80 SUVs, and the GV60 electric car, the absence of the G90 sedan is notable due to its exclusive production in left-hand-drive confguration. The forthcoming GV90 is expected to be a fullsize seven-seat SUV, strategically positioned to compete with fagship models such as the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS. While details about the GV90 remain somewhat

elusive, insights gleaned from the Neolun concept showcased at the New York motor show offer some tantalizing clues. It’s widely speculated that the production GV90 will be an electric vehicle, likely sharing size similarities with

the Kia EV9. However, what sets it apart could be its underpinnings, potentially built on Hyundai Motor Group’s eM electric platform as part of the Integrated Modular Architecture system. Production of the GV90 is slated to

As Australia embraces the electric vehicle revolution, General Motors remains committed to delivering right-hand-drive vehicles tailored to local preferences. With the GMC Hummer EV pickup poised to electrify Australian roads, the automotive landscape is set for a monumental shift towards sustainable mobility.

In addition to the Hummer EV pick-up, General Motors’ portfolio of electrifed vehicles includes the Cadillac Lyriq SUV, slated for an Australian debut in late 2024. With a steadfast commitment to producing righthand-drive vehicles, General Motors aims to cater to the evolving needs of Australian consumers while driving the adoption of electric vehicles in the region.

As the automotive industry embraces electrifcation, Australia stands at the forefront of this transformative journey, poised to embrace the future of mobility with open arms. With the impending arrival of the GMC Hummer EV pick-up, Australian enthusiasts can look forward to experiencing the thrill of electrifying performance, redefning the notion of rugged adventure in the age of sustainability.

by past performance concepts like the Genesis X Convertible concept.

commence toward the end of next year, which could delay its introduction to the Australian market until 2026 or 2027. Additionally, Genesis Australia may explore the possibility of introducing a production sports car, hinted at

While specifcs regarding Genesis’ future plans remain closely guarded, there’s a growing likelihood of incorporating more hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains into the lineup, aligning with market demands and the brand’s evolving strategy. Douglass emphasized Genesis’ unwavering commitment to meeting customer expectations, hinting at potential developments that resonate with market trends and customer preferences.

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Fossils fuel book bans.

Some days you wake up and ask yourself

“has the world turned upside down, or did I overdo it last night?”

Albanese’s government has declared the best way to phase out fossil fuels is to…wait for it…use more of them. Yes, the fossil fuel ‘gas’ is apparently the great saviour for humanity to help us stop using…um…gas.

In a dangerous show of bi-partisanship, the Coalition would agree except their

Sevenhill Clare Valley St Ignatius (Cabernet, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc) 2020, $60. Ah, the great grapes of claret have that telltale, deliciously alluring scent, even if they don’t come from Bordeaux. Clare Valley is possibly the closest thing we have to Bordeaux, so voila! Je

largest donor, Gina, doesn’t, so the Nats are off the leash and the libs have gone ballistic with nuclear instead because it’s so green and… um…expensive.

Then, just when you thought the world was righting itself, the government has decided we can raid the funds we have saved for retirement to buy a house which we can later sell to help pay for our retirement, to which the real estate industry said, “YOU

Sevenhill Clare Valley Inigo Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, $30. Clare is renowned for cabernet and even modest offerings such as this are good value, specially if you let them breathe for a couple of hours or overnight in a closed bottle. But who can wait that long? 9.2/10.

BEAUTY!!!”.

But it’s alright, only rich people will be able to do this and house prices will go up along with real estate commissions. To which the rich cry, “YOU BEAUTY”.

Then, deep in the bowels of Western Sydney, a council has banned from their library books showing same sex couples with kids. Critics have pondered frstly whether this is still 2024, and secondly how thin is this wedge and what will

‘Inigo’ Grenache 2022, $30. This new breed lighter-bodied, cleaner, grenache still carries some character, but it’s just not the same as the gritty, dirty grenaches of old. Violins please. 9.1/10. Moppity Hilltops ‘Atrius’ Tempranillo, 2023, $35. The label artwork by James

they ban next.

Don’t like same sex stuff?

Ban it.

Murder not your thing?

Ban all books depicting murder. Sorry Agatha et al. What about stealing?

And in keeping with the Ten Commandments, most (politicians excepted) seem to agree thou shalt not bear false witness, so books about stealing and lying are out.

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house or wife?

Yeah, nah. That’s fne, and

apart in the bottlo and you wouldn’t mind it on your wall, as opposed to the wine which you would not, but would be much cheaper. Maybe you could do a montage of the labels? Very tempranillo, perfect wine with which to admire art. 9.2/10. Moppity Murrumbateman

the whole housing industry is predicated on that dictum. Coveting houses that is, not wives. Better Homes and Gardens and 50 Shades of Grey can stay.

However that the community is outraged is weird because the community voted for the councillors who banned the books, just as we voted for a government with a weird approach to climate and housing.

It’s all very well to

Grenache Mourvedre 2022, $35. Atrius could be an adapted Greek name, Atreus, father of Agamemnon, and bringer of curse upon his family, so maybe this is named after a different bloke.

The only curse here is that the bottle is not endless. Interesting cool climate take on the combination.

whinge about killing the planet and the inequality of wealth, but if the majority of voters don’t agree, you’re buggered. Just ask America. Should enough people eventually vote against alcohol, who are we, the minority, to deny them?

Thin edge of the wedge indeed, so best make it a wedge of delicious hard cheese and a bottle of red while we can.

Moppity Hilltops ‘Atrius’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, $35. 13.5 per cent pretty light for a cab’ by today’s standards but this is not apparent, specially, as above if you give it time to breath, it becomes a proper full-bodied cab’ with all the commensurate good bits of the breed.

Max Crus

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

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

BUTTER CHICKEN AND CAULIFLOWER SOUP

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tbsp rice bran oil

• 4 (500g) skinless chicken thigh fllets, trimmed, halved

• 1 large brown onion, fnely chopped

• 1/2 cup butter chicken paste

• 1/2 small (450g) caulifower, cut into forets

• 1 desiree potato, peeled, roughly chopped

• 400g can diced tomatoes

• 3 cups chicken liquid stock

• 200g green beans, trimmed, cut into 4cm lengths

• 60g baby spinach

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1/2 cup plain Greek-style yoghurt

• 2 tbsp faked almonds, toasted

• Warmed naan bread, to serve

METHOD

1. Heat oil in a large heavy-based saucepan over

medium-high heat. Add chicken. Cook, turning, for 5 minutes or until chicken is browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate. Roughly shred chicken.

2. Add onion to pan. Cook, stirring, for 3 to 4 minutes or until softened. Add curry paste. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute or until fragrant. Add caulifower and potato. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes.

3. Add tomatoes and stock. Cover. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low. Simmer, partially covered, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes or until potato and caulifower are tender. Set aside for 5 minutes to cool slightly.

4. Blend soup, in batches, until smooth. Return soup to pan over low heat. Add beans, spinach, lemon juice and chicken. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until beans are tender. Remove pan from heat. Stir in yoghurt.

5. Ladle soup into bowls. Sprinkle with almonds and serve with naan.

COOKIE DOUGH CROISSANTS

10m prep 35 cook

4 servings

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 500g extra-lean beef chipolata sausages

• 1 medium brown onion, halved, sliced

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 400g can Cannellini Beans, drained, rinsed

• 800g can Diced Tomatoes

• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• Chopped fresh fat-leaf parsley leaves, to serve

• Crusty bread, to serve

METHOD

1. Heat half the 1 tbsp olive oil in a large, heavybased saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook 500g extra-lean beef chipolata sausages, in batches, turning, for 5 to 6 minutes or until browned all over. Transfer to a plate.

2. Heat remaining oil in pan. Add 1 medium brown onion, halved, sliced and 2 garlic cloves, crushed. Cook, stirring, for 5 to 6 minutes or until onion has softened. Add 400g can Coles Cannellini Beans, drained, rinsed, 800g can Coles Italian Diced Tomatoes, 1/4 cup barbecue sauce and 1 tbsp brown sugar. Return sausages to pan. Cover. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, uncovered, for 25 minutes or until sausages are cooked through and sauce thickened. Sprinkle with Chopped fresh fat-leaf parsley leaves, to serve. Serve with Crusty bread, to serve.

INGREDIENTS

• 4 store-bought croissants

• 450g packet Choc Chip Cookie Dough, cut crossways into 12 slices

• Icing sugar, to dust

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 180C/160C fan forced. Line a baking tray with baking paper

2. Use a large serrated knife to cut each croissant in half horizontally, without cutting all the way through. Open up the 4 store-bought croissants and place

2 450g packet Choc Chip Cookie Dough, cut crossways into 12 slices in the centre. Fold the top of the croissant over the cookie dough to enclose. Cut a remaining slice of cookie dough in half. Press the cookie dough halves on the top of the croissant. Repeat with the remaining croissants and cookie dough.

3. Transfer the croissants to the lined tray. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden. Dust with Icing sugar, to dust. Serve warm. Watch our step-by-step video below to see how to make these Cookie dough croissants.

Create a Lush Fern Garden with These Shade-Loving Plants

If your garden is protected from the sun, consider transforming it into a mini fern rainforest. Ferns evoke the essence of rainforests with their earthy aroma and prehistoric charm, creating a calming and otherworldly atmosphere. These low-maintenance plants are not only beautiful but can outlive many other plants, adding texture and rich green hues to the damp and shady parts of your yard, making your garden lush and luxurious. With so many fern varieties to choose from, here’s a guide to get you started.

GROWING FERNS

IN YOUR GARDEN

Ferns thrive in part to full shade and prefer rich, earthy soil reminiscent of their rainforest origins. Ideal soil for ferns is welldrained and nutrient-rich from decaying leaf matter. In warmer parts of Australia, protection from all

sun may be necessary, while in cooler regions, shielding them from the harsh afternoon sun is suffcient. Ferns are predominantly perennial, allowing you to divide and propagate them in spring or autumn to enhance your shady garden areas.

UNDERSTANDING FERN TYPES

All ferns are vascular plants, growing from spores rather than seeds or fowers. While many ferns grow directly from the ground, like bird’s nest ferns and autumn ferns, others thrive on rocks or trees.

• Lithophytes: Ferns that attach themselves to rocks.

• Epiphytes: Ferns that grow on trees, fences, or man-made structures, drawing nutrients from decaying leaf matter and animal droppings caught in their leaves.

Epiphytic ferns are particularly versatile, making them excellent for planting on fences

and structures within your garden.

IDEAL PLANTS FOR YOUR FERN GARDEN

Australian Tree Fern

For gardens with ample shade, the Australian tree fern is a stunning choice. With its large canopy and elegant single trunk, this fern can bring a piece of the rainforest, like the Daintree, to your backyard. It can grow between 5 and 10 metres tall, so ensure you have suffcient space for its fronds to spread.

Staghorn Fern

The staghorn fern is a classic choice that remains stylish. As an epiphytic fern, it can attach to trees, fences, or even the exterior walls

of your home, making it perfect for covering unsightly areas or adding texture to your garden’s fence line.

Bird’s Nest Fern

With apple-green, shiny leaves that can reach 1-2 metres in height, the bird’s nest fern is ideal for pots or planting in the forks of trees to maintain a rainforest aesthetic. These ferns also make excellent indoor plants, provided they are kept out of direct sunlight and in well-draining soil.

Elkhorn Fern

Similar to the staghorn fern, the elkhorn fern can be attached to trees or walls, adding a prehistoric touch to your garden. This low-maintenance fern

thrives with ample shade and occasional compost for nutrients.

Soft Tree Fern

Native to eastern Australia, the soft tree fern, also known as the man fern, features bright green fronds forming a feathery canopy that can grow up to 15 metres tall. This fern is perfect for flling large, shaded spaces. Its trunk also provides an excellent base for growing epiphytes like elkhorn ferns or native Australian orchids.

Hen and Chicken Fern

Also known as mother spleenwort, this New Zealand native fern boasts feathery foliage that cascades beautifully, remaining lush yearround. It thrives in part-shade and should be protected from direct sunlight, adding elegance to the dappled shade of your garden.

Autumn Fern

To introduce colour variation among your ferns, consider

the autumn fern. Its triangular fronds transition from pinkish to coppery before maturing to bright green, offering a stunning contrast of autumnal oranges and greens to enhance your garden’s visual appeal.

Baby’s Tears Ground Cover

A rainforest garden isn’t complete without a charming ground cover. Despite its melancholy name, baby’s tears is an excellent ground cover for shady garden areas. It can also be grown in pots and along pavers, adding a delicate touch to your fern garden. By incorporating these diverse fern species, you can create a serene, rainforest-like garden that thrives in the shade, offering beauty and tranquillity year-round. Whether you have a large backyard or a compact space, these ferns will transform your garden into a lush, green haven.

Australian Tree Fern Autumn Fern

Baby’s Tears Ground Cover

Elkhorn Fern

Soft Tree Fern Bird’s Nest Fern

Hen and Chicken Fern

Staghorn Fern

8 August 1940 to 29 May 2019 In my heart forever, missing you my partner, Love Pasqualina and

Late of Ballina. Passed away peacefully at Crowley Nursing Home on ursday 9th May 2024, aged 88. Beloved wife of Jack (dec.). Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Ron and Roma, Rodney & Eleanor, Tony (dec.), Brad & Peta. Devoted grandmother to all her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Loved and sadly missed by her extended family and friends. A private cremation was held

page is dedicated

Death Notice

JAMES, STANLEY ARTHUR

7/1/1938 – 14/5/24 86 Years

Passed away peacefully on the 14th May 2024, at Kyogle MPS formerly of Groom St, Kyogle Dearly Loved Husband of Esme

Loved Father & Father in Law to Julie & Brian Paine, Robert & Sue James and Dianne James Loved Grandad of 5 and Great Grandad of 6 “Lovingly Remembered”

Privately cremated as per Stan’s wishes. Esme and the family wish to thank the sta at Kyogle MPS for their care, compassion and comfort given to Stan and the Family.

REID, JOAN PATRICIA - nee Lever

Passed away peacefully on 15th May 2024 at e Cedars Nursing Home. Late of Casino. Aged 89 Years. Beloved wife of Alan (decd). Much loved mother & mother-in-law of Je & Rhonda, Stephen & Jenni, Leanne & Jim Rankin, Lynette & Warren Watson.

Cherished by her 13 grandchildren & 20 great-grandchildren. Loved and sadly missed by all the Reid & Lever families.

Special thanks to sta at Whiddon Nursing Home, Casino and Dr Aldo Castagna for their wonderful care and attention. Rest in Peace

Relatives and friends of Joan are invited to attend her funeral service to be held on FRIDAY 31st May 2024 commencing at 11.00am at St Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Hickey Street, Casino followed by burial at Casino Lawn Cemetery.

Funeral Notice

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Mostly sunny. The chance of morning fog inland. Medium chance of showers near the coast, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Winds southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h tending southerly during the morning then becoming light during the afternoon.

Thursday. Mostly sunny. Medium chance of showers near the coast, most likely in the evening. Winds southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h tending southerly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District:

The chance of morning fog. The chance of morning frost on and west of the ranges. Mostly sunny day. Light winds.

Thursday. The chance of morning fog. Patches of morning frost in the south. Mostly sunny day. Light winds becoming southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

New South Wales:

Isolated showers along the coastal fringe, possibly extending to the ranges of the Hunter and the Mid North Coast. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere. Areas of frost about the southern and central ranges and slopes, patchy along the far northern ranges. Patchy morning fog about the ranges. Daytime temperatures slightly below average. Southwest to southeasterly winds. Thursday. Isolated showers along the coastal fringe, possibly extending to the ranges of the Hunter and the Mid North Coast. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere. Areas of frost about the southern and central inland, patchy along the northern ranges.

morning fog about the

if

Coast: Winds: Southerly 20 to 30 knots. Seas: 1.5 to 2 metres, decreasing to 1.5 metres during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Southerly 2.5 to 3 metres. Weather: Cloudy. 90% chance of showers.

Coffs Coast: Winds: Southerly 20 to 30 knots. Seas: 1.5 to 2 metres, decreasing to 1.5 metres during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Southerly 2.5 to 3 metres. Weather: Cloudy. 90% chance of showers.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Southeasterly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres. Swell: Southerly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1.5 to 2 metres offshore. Weather: Partly cloudy. 80% chance of showers.

Patchy

ranges. Daytime temperatures average,

not slightly below. Southwest to southeasterly winds. Byron

SURFERS

PARADISE, QLD (May 17th, 2024):

Excitement is building ahead of the inaugural Australian Interschools Surfng Championships presented by Ghanda, set to debut on the Gold Coast from next Wednesday 22nd May (competition starts Thursday 23rd May).

More than two-hundredand-ffty Schools surfng competitors from across the country will go head-to-head at Surfers Paradise in what is Australia’s biggest school surfng event.

Sports Excellence Surfng Coach at Palm Beach Currumbin High School Blair Semple spoke about the buzz around his group of surfers as they prepared

for a teams event, something that’s rare on the Gold Coast.

“We’re really looking forward to the Australian Interschools comp. There aren’t a lot of competitions that allow the students to represent their school in a teams surfng format so we’re excited to see how we fare against other schools from around the country,” said Semple.

“Ghanda is so excited to be presenting the very frst Australian Interschools Surfng Championships. We are proud to be one of the largest Australian

owned companies and thought this was a great opportunity to give back to the next generation of up-and-coming surfers,” said Josh Rudd, Ghanda Founder.

City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate was equally excited about having a new junior surfng event on his city beaches.

“Surfng is in our city’s DNA. With world-class breaks and a vibrant coastal culture, there is no better home for the inaugural Australian Interschool Surfng Championships.

“Well done to Surfng

Australia for introducing this new competition format which enables us to continue to identify and support the next generation of surfng talent ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. As a city, we have produced many surfng world champions and I have no doubt these young athletes will put on an incredible show on our shores this week,” said Mayor Tom Tate.

with Surfng Australia.

BALLINA MAHJONG 17TH MAY 2024

Jan Small, Lorna Simpson 1, Janene Jarvis 3, Val Heinritz 4, Jan Boardman 5, Joy Lowien 6, Shirley Coleman 7, Vanessa Reynolds 8, Gladys D’Anna 9, Coral Lavelle 10, Cindy Smith, Shirley Atkinson 11, Jeanette Henwood, Pauline

Bolte 13, Sally Lowry 15, Kath Hubbard, Yvonne Weddup 16, Lesley Richie 18, Valda McLerie 19, Pam Farrell 20, Jan Henley 21, Lynda Lovett 22, Margaret Bryant 23, Pauline Kearney 24,

Diana Auret 25, Jane Fenech 25, Lisa Wong 27, Gail McDonagh 28, Kathy Pickles 29, Linda Lloyd 30, Jenny Lang 31, Susan Scott 32. Friday at 12:30pm at the Ballina Bridge Club North Creek Road. Enquiries for new players phone Shirley on 0423384647.

CASINO RSM WOMENS BOWLS RESULTS

Wednesday 15/4:

The fnal for the club championship for the Minor Consistency was played today & the result was: Chris Haynes

def Julie Creighton.

Congratulations to Chris on becoming the 2024 Minor Consistency Club Champion for 2024.

Well done to Julie for becoming runner up in this event.

In social bowls the winners of the day were: Carmel Doyle, Marlene Jordan & Annette James def

Judy Carthew, Denise Grice & Ivy Watson

In our other social game: Helen Lavelle & Raelene Skirrey def

Maria Hellyar & Kaye Jonsson

Love the Ghanda family. #oceanstateofmind

Surfng Queensland CEO Adam Yates was excited about his organisations role in co-managing the event

“Surfng Queensland is stoked to help facilitate this great new school surfng event in partnership with Surfng Australia. We are excited to see the level of surfng when the competition gets underway next week. Events like this are great for the region and all involved. To our interstate visitors we say enjoy the magic winter conditions on the Gold Coast!,” said Yates.

About the Australian Interschools Surfng Championships:

The Australian Interschools Surfng

Championships is open to all secondary schools, including government, catholic and independent schools across Australia, to compete and feld teams in each division. Schools can enter multiple teams and individuals across Boys and Girls from Year 7-12 or just one team or one individual.

The Australian Interschools Surfng Championships are proudly supported by Experience Gold Coast, Ghanda Clothing, Pit Viper Sunglasses, Soundboks, the Hyundai Surfng Australian High Performance Centre (HPC) and Surfers for Climate.

CHERRY STREET

CROQUET CLUB

SPORTS RESULTS ASSOCIATION

CROQUET : R Chapman P.Hume 11d P.Waters S.Hume 9

P.Waters 13 d S.Hume

P.Hume 6

G.Porter 17 d G.Drew

P.Hume 14

Division 3 Club

Championships :

P.Waters 21 d S.Hume 4

RICOCHET

CROQUET : P.Scott C.Edlund 12

N.Poynting M.Russell 7

P.Bolte B.Waters 11 d

J.Doust N.Barnes 10

J.Bate 13 d P.Bolte 12

N.Poynting 23 d M.Russell J.Hannigan 17

N.Barnes H.Young 12 d J.Doust R.Poynting 8

R.Chapman A.Mangan 17 d P.Scott N.Watts 14 Division 2 Club Singles Championships: R.Poynting 7 d P.Waters 5 Croquet for Kids Tuesday afternoons 4pm.

All welcome.

CORAKI VETERANS

GOLF RESULTS

THURSDAY 16/5/24

Well what a wet and heavy golf course after all the rain certainly

kept the golfng numbers down, however this coming week looks to be much better, Winner P Brophy, free game P Martin, chicken/ ball winners P Bruggy, D Vagne, T McBurney, R Thorne, S Toms, M Bruggy, R Rodda. Nearest pins 3rd/12thJ Sauer, 6th/15th P Martin.

This Thursday an 18 hole single stableford event will be contested commencing with a shot gun start at 8.30am. AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING

Palm Beach Currurmbin High School’s Amelia Craike (left), Coach Blair Semple and Maddison Kenchington (right) are ready to represent when the Australian Interschools Surfng Championships Presented by Ghanda gets underway next Thursday May 23rd in Surfer’s. Photo Credits: Blainey Woodham/Surfng Australia

Girls Divisions competitors Amelia Craike and Maddison Kenchington, Luke Madden -Chief of Sport – Events, Participation & Community at Surfng Australia, Palm Beach Currumbin High Sports Excellence Surfng Coach Coach Blair Semple, Boys Division competitors Luca Martin, Jai Nield and Sunny Clarke. Photo Credits: Blainey Woodham/Surfng Australia

By Tim Howard

The Nambucca Roosters demonstrated why they are one top of the Group 2 Rugby League competition ladder with a 46-12 thumping of the South Grafton Rebels at McKittrick Park on Sunday.

Apart from two frst-half tries, the Rebels rarely cracked a well organised Rooster defensive line and when they did fnd themselves in scoring positions, poor options cost them any chance to exert pressure.

The Rebels opened the scoring in the eighth minute when centre Tyler Roberts pinched the ball from his opposite number in a one on one strip and set sail upfeld.

He found half back Nick McGrady looming in support and McGrady’s pass to a fying Jamal Laurie resulted in a try to the left of the uprights which McGrady converted to give his side a 6-0 lead against the run of play.

But the Roosters soon asserted their dominance with a pair of tries from kicks to fve-eighth

Tyreece Sines.

The Roosters equalised minutes later punishing the Rebels for a secondtackle dropped the ball coming out of their half.

Sines was a little fortunate that his kick ahead bounced off the rump of Rebels prop Grant Stevens and bounced up into his hands.

He planted the ball under the posts with three Rebels defenders desperately trying to hold him back.

The Roosters hit the front just a minute later when they brought the ball back from the kickoff.

Sines again kicked, this time fnding space and regathering.

Fullback Keiron Johnson Heron and half McGrady slipped off the tackle and he found himself putting the ball down under the posts in almost the same spot he scored his previous try.

Ahead 12-6 the Rooster dominated feld position and possession as the Rebels defended desperately.

But in the 24th minute the Rebels pounced in

a well executed move starting in their own half.

A series of surges around the ruck carried the ball to the Roosters quarter line, where fve-eighth Hugh Stanley was able to wrong foot the defence and then slip a short inside ball to prop Bailey Sinclair who crashed over under the posts.

The play was an indication of what the Rebels could achieve when they put their plays together, but it was a rare occurrence in a lacklustre effort from the home team.

The Rebels had some half chances to score in the next few minutes, but made crucial errors when on attack.

The Roosters cracked the game open in the 31st minute when they converted some extended feld position.

Attacking down the left a short kick into the in-goal eluded the grasping fngers of fullback Johnson-Heron, but bounced perfectly for winger Beau Langford, who dived on the loose ball to score.

With minutes left in

the half the Rebels tried to swing the ball to the right, but in a play that summed up their day, passes were directed behind players or found the grass and eventually the knock on came.

Down 16-12 at the break the Rebels were in the game if they could come out in the second half and show more ball control and discipline.

Instead the Rebels found themselves defending tenaciously in the opening minutes after a massive 40-20 from Rooster skipper and fullback Tyrone RobertsDavis found touch 7m from the Rebels’ line.

There was no score for a scrappy 15 minutes, with the Roosters marginally having the better of play.

But it was the breakdown of a promising Rebels attack that gave the visitors the decisive break of the afternoon.

Second rower Brian Quinlin-Randall latched onto a loose ball and sprinted upfeld.

He appeared to be hit around the shoulders in a covering tackle and

Roosters centre Dane Saunders knocked the ball from his grasp.

Rebels players appealed for a high tackle penalty or a knock-on but the referee was having none of it.

Saunders sprinted away to score giving his team the vital score of the half, taking the score to 22-12.

Rebels lock Richard Roberts had been causing headaches for the Roosters and almost got on the scoreboard only to knock on as he crashed over the line.

But in the fnal 15 minutes the Roosters piled on the agony for the Rebels in front of their home ground, running in tries seemingly at will.

Half Logan Jones slipped through the middle of the Rebels forwards to score.

Then lock Jay Melrose ripped the defence apart with a great surge upfeld. He found centre Willy Baker with short pass and he scored in the corner.

The Rebels looked shot and began falling off tackles.

Substitute winger Toby

Batten crashed over in the corner and with a minute left Baker ran past some non-existent t defence to score in the right corner.

Roberts-Davis put the icing on the cake with three sideline conversions for each of last three tries.

It was not a good weekend for Grafton league teams with the Grafton Ghosts falling to Macksville 34-22 at Allan Gillett Oval, Macksville.

The home side scored six tries to four, with rugged centre Jake Martin scoring twice. The weekend results put the Ghosts on fourth and ffth spots on the competition ladder.

On Saturday the Rebels head to Woolgoolga for a grand fnal rematch, although this season they fnd the Seahorses a spot lower than them on the competition table.

On Sunday the Ghosts host cellar dwellers, the Coffs Harbour Comets, who are yet to win a game this season.

Rebels fve-eighth Hugh Stanley produced one magic break in the frst half which led to a try, but for most of the game the Nambucca defence was able to keep him quiet.

On Wednesday 15th May 2024, the Tweed Seagulls RLFC hosted a highly successful Leaders in League Breakfast at Seagulls, celebrating the signifcant contributions of women to both rugby league and business. The event also highlighted the club’s community programs. There were over 150 business leaders and community members from the Northern Rivers NSW and Gold Coast who attended.

The breakfast featured an esteemed business panel including Rebecca Frizelle OAM (PartOwner & Director Gold Coast Titans), Shannon McFadden (Chief Strategy, Sustainability and People Offcer Queensland Airports), Oliver Horn (CEO Nutra Organics), and Samantha

Bliss (Independent Director QRL), who shared their insights and experiences.

A football panel comprising Jo Barrett (Gold Coast Titans NRLW Program Manager), David Penna (Tweed Seagulls Head of Football), Georgia Ellison (BMD Premiership Tweed Seagulls), and Bridget Hoy (BMD Premiership Tweed Seagulls) provided valuable perspectives on the female game and where they see it heading.

A highlight of the event was the unveiling of the 2024 Eximm Sport Indigenous Jersey, titled “Birds of a Feather,” designed by local artist Christine Slabb and presented by Matty Francis.

The club also announced the 2024 Gold Coast Airport

Female Tom Searle Scholarship recipients: Kali Ainsworth and Kaylee Booth. Kali, hailing from Casino and a member of the U19 Harvey Norman side, aspires to play in the NRLW and work with children as a SLSO. Kaylee, captain of the U17 Harvey Norman side and player for the Tweed Heads Seagulls JRL, aims to pursue a career in the Fisheries and also dreams of playing in the NRLW. These two girls are a great example of the Tweed Seagulls commitment to the female game and the pathway opportunities Tweed Seagulls are providing Northern

Rivers players to the elite level.

The event’s success was attributed to the attendees and our wonderful partners.

CEO Brendon Lindsay extended special thanks to EML Group, Gold Coast Airport, and Greenmount Timber & Building Supplies for their steadfast support of our female program. Additionally, we acknowledge Eximm and Hiway Group (Hiway Stabilizers), The Recycling Solutions Specialists, for their pivotal role in the club’s community programs.

A special mention goes to our MC, Mickey Coleman, for his outstanding contribution to the event.

Sydney, NSW – May 20: Greyhound Racing

NSW (GRNSW) has announced an Organisational Reset aimed at reducing costs and enhancing business effciencies amid challenging trading and market conditions.

The restructuring involves staff redundancies at head offce and operational teams, reductions in supplier and contractor expenses, and decreased club distribution payments.

Rob Macaulay, GRNSW Chief Executive Offcer, stated that the reset targets a 30% reduction in total budget expenditure for FY2024-25.

“Efforts have been made to preserve returns to participants, who are the core of our sport,” Mr. Macaulay said. “Prizemoney per race remains unchanged, with minor adjustments to Group and Feature races already published.

Animal welfare and track safety initiatives will continue to receive increased funding, adhering to our commitment to world-best practices.”

The reset follows a state-wide consultation with participants, industry leaders, and business partners.

“GRNSW, like other racing bodies in Australia, is facing tougher trading conditions due to a signifcant reduction in wagering turnover,” Macaulay explained.

“Wagering-derived revenue is down 22.5% this year, impacting our overall income. The severe challenges in the Australian wagering market are affecting all racing organizations, including ours.”

The impact has necessitated job losses as part of a comprehensive business review. Support, including counselling and career transition services, is being provided to departing staff.

Most redundancies affect head offce managerial and administrative roles, and the Wyee kennel facility will be repurposed as a base for the “Aussie Mates” US rehoming program for retired NSW greyhounds, managed by a welfare logistics partner.

“This reset follows extensive consultations and a full business review to address the ongoing decline in wagering revenue,” Macaulay noted.

“Identifed cost savings include head offce and supplier reductions, with club distribution payment programs being fnalized based on wagering turnover revenue.”

Macaulay emphasized that all animal welfare programs, including rehoming, PTSD retraining for retired greyhounds, and track safety upgrades, will remain fully funded with a commitment to maintaining world-best standards.

ROOSTERS HAND REBELS

A THUMPING