The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 203

1500 NEW HOME SITES FOR RICHMOND VALLEY

By Samantha Elley

Summerland Estate is the latest piece of land to be opened up as part of the NSW Government’s $100 million Resilient Lands Program.

Located on the north side of Casino at Fairy Hill, the area has been identifed as part of Richmond Valley Council’s Housing strategy as it sits well above the foodplain, allowing for foodresilient homes to be constructed.

“Today, the announcement is ($245,000) to Richmond Valley Council to do some studies under the Resilient Lands package to open up, up to 1500 home sites at Fairy Hill,” said Clarence member, Richie Williamson, on the banks of the Richmond River at Woodburn last week.

“It is a signifcant injection of cash to allow the council to get to a position to apply for more funds.

“It is a further step in our food recovery here in the Richmond and of course more broadly across the Northern Rivers.”

From L to R: Parliamentary secretary for Disaster Recovery, Janelle Saffn, Richmond Valley Mayor, Robert Mustow, Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson and Reconstruction Authority’s CEO, Malcolm Lanyon. Photo: Trish Parker.

Last ditch bid to save Ulmarra ferry

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley councillors have not give up hope they can rescue the Ulmarra Ferry from State Government ordered oblivion.

At this week’s May council meeting Cr Steve Pickering has brought a notice of motion begging the NSW Government to reverse its decision to terminate the service from June 10.

Cr Pickering’s NOM asked that council:

1. write to Jenny Aitchison MP, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads of NSW, and Chris Minns, Premier of NSW, requesting a review of the decision to terminate the Ulmarra to Southgate ferry service and that assurance be given to the Clarence Valley community that the service will remain in operation.

2. write to the Local Member, Richie Williamson MP, thanking him for

his support to date and request he make representation to Jenny Aitchison MP, the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads of NSW, requesting a review of the Transport for NSW decision to terminate the Ulmarra to Southgate ferry and that assurance be given to the Clarence Valley community that the ferry service will be retained.

Cr Pickering said the ferry service was tied to the identity of the local community and was recognised as such in planning documents such as the Clarence Way Masterplan II.

It said: B 3.2 Promote cultural tourism that links to the river and refects a sense of place. Coordinate heritage assets. Manage and protect the ferry crossings for their local and tourists

B5 Enhance the visitor experience on the ferry. Consider safe options to allow pedestrians and cyclists and allow passengers to move out of their vehicles.

But Transport for NSW which operates the ferry said the service has become unviable with an average of just one car a trip using the ferry.

Cr Pickering said for residents, businesses, families with school children, tradies, farmers, primary producers and tourists from the Ulmarra side of the Clarence River to the Southgate side of the river; it acts as an infrastructure link, similar to a bridge.

The ferry operated

seven days a week between 6am and 10.40pm with stops for meal breaks. The trip took seven minutes each way.

Travelling from Ulmarra to Southgate using roads through Grafton would take 28 minutes and is 29.5km each way.

TfNSW claims that the patronage of the ferry has been reduced since the opening of the Balun Bindarray Bridge and the completion of the M1 Motorway.

The ferry service has also become less reliable recently, with around 250 stoppages last year (as announced by TfNSW).

The reliability was attributed to silt buildup under the ferry due to infrequent dredging.

Cr Pickering said the ferry was part of the community used for daily commutes and was also a tourist attraction.

“To date, there has been no local community consultation, and due to the haste of decision-making and the failure to consult the users and local community effectively, this decision will have unintended consequences,” Cr Pickering said.

The government has also received a petition with the signatures of 6000 people protesting against the decision to close the ferry service.

The outcome of the NOM to be heard at this week’s council meeting, will be reported in next week’s edition of The Northern Rivers Times.

Missing $1.9 mil turns up in village hall account

COMMENT

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley Council chose to go into confdential session this week to discuss possibly the worst kept secret of the year: how nearly $1.9 million of State Government money ended up in the bank account of a tiny village hall committee.

Late last month the council sent an urgent please explain to the Ewingar Community Hall Committee after council received advice from the State Government it had deposited nearly $1.9 million in grant funds with the council during 2023.

But there was a problem: it had no idea where the money was because it had never showed up in its

accounts.

A frantic search soon showed where the money had landed, when they spotted the bank statement of the Ewingar Hall committee.

Normally happy to have a couple of thousand in the bank, the account for April 2024 showed a balance of almost $1.9 million in the black with records of three deposits from different State Government departments during 2023 of $750,000 in April, $1.142,212 in June and $1390 in September.

The council was not amused, getting the local police to investigate how the funds came to be in the committee’s hands.

Sources in the committee revealed it was no laughing matter at their end as well.

When the money turned up in their account, they tracked down the

government departments responsible and asked them some pertinent questions like, what was this money for and how did the government get their bank account details.

When they didn’t get a response the concern $1.9 windfall was some sort of money laundering scam, so they waited for the midnight phone call or mysterious men in dark glasses to knock on some doors.

The wait ended in April this year when the State Government and the council worked out something was amiss and got serious about looking for the missing money.

The police involvement convinced committee members they weren’t unwittingly part of a scam, so in April committee members made the three hour round trip to their bank

in Casino to transfer the money to the council account.

Council debated two reports listed jn the confdential section of the business paper, which concerned member of the hall committee.

The committee is a S355 council committee which reports regularly to the council and is subject to council’s code of conduct.

The business paper said it was necessary for the committee to go into confdential session because it contained “personnel matters concerning particular individuals” and the information could “prejudice the maintenance of law” and “contains alleged contraventions of any code of conduct requirements applicable under section 440”.

The Northern Rivers

Times has learned the council planned to bring an urgent late item of business to it April meeting on this matter, but withdrew it at the last minute.

While it’s looking for explanations, the council might also like to explain when it plans to get moving on the building the Rural Fire Service brigade shed for the village promised after the 2019 fres which killed two people and destroyed 45 homes.

The council has had more than $850,000 in Bushfre Local Economic Recovery grant funding since July 2021, when the project was listed as the council’s number one priority.

So far all the Ewingar community have heard on the matter is crickets.

Community feeling to save the Ulmarra Ferry, which is due to be decommissioned on June 10, closing a 130-plus year history of service in the region.

By Samantha Elley

Summerland Estate is the latest piece of land to be opened up as part of the NSW Government’s $100 million Resilient Lands Program.

Located on the north side of Casino at Fairy Hill, the area has been identifed as part of Richmond Valley Council’s Housing strategy as it sits well above the foodplain, allowing for foodresilient homes to be constructed.

“Today, the announcement is ($245,000) to Richmond Valley Council to do some studies under the Resilient Lands package to open up, up to 1500 home sites at Fairy Hill,” said Clarence member, Richie Williamson, on the banks of the Richmond River at Woodburn last week.

“It is a signifcant injection of cash to allow the council to get to a

1500 new home sites for Richmond Valley

position to apply for more funds.

“It is a further step in our food recovery here in the Richmond and of course more broadly across the Northern Rivers.”

The Northern Rivers Times asked, as this announcement was made on the banks of the river at Woodburn, if there was land opening up for food-affected residents closer to the riverside village.

“That’s something the council will work through,” Cr Williamson said.

“This land (at Fairy Hill) was identifed some months ago… as one of the lands in the Richmond Valley Council area that is eligible for this funding.

“What I’m working for, for Woodburn is the Resilient Homes. I want to see houses raised and want to see homes retroftted because it’s really important

that communities like Woodburn are kept together.

“We have a critical mass, so schools continue to function and shops continue to function.

“It’s coming, I can tell you we are all working very hard, places like Woodburn, Broadwater to ensure that they get their fair share too.”

Reconstruction Authority’s CEO,

Malcolm Lanyon, said food-affected buyers will be prioritised to buy the new blocks of land at Fairy Hill as they come on the market.

“Under the Resilient Homes program, people that are in that program are actually prioritised for the Resilient Lands program,” he said.

There is, however, a question around the affordability of the blocks when they will be available.

Richmond Valley mayor, Robert Mustow said this was an exciting time for the Richmond Valley.

“With plans for new jobs and more houses on food-free land and at more affordable prices compared to many areas across the Northern Rivers,” he said.

Member for Lismore and Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery, Janelle Saffn, said this funding was a vitally important next

step towards delivering resilient homes for the community.

“It also demonstrates the NSW Government’s commitment to working with community leaders and supporting all parts of the Northern Rivers affected by the 2022 foods,” she said.

This Resilient Lands program announcement follows the recent ones of 400 lots in East Lismore and up to 50 new households in the Mount Pleasant Estate, Goonellabah.

As far as the Resilient Homes program goes, Mr Lanyon said over 100 assessments have been done for the house-raising and retroft program so far.

“I can say there will be an announcement quite imminent on the start of that program, certainly within Woodburn,” he said.

From L to R: Parliamentary secretary for Disaster Recovery, Janelle Saffn, Richmond Valley Mayor, Robert Mustow, Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson and Reconstruction Authority’s CEO, Malcolm Lanyon. Photo: Trish Parker.

Marketta concept expands around Valley

By Tim Howard

After wowing all concerned in 2023, Grafton Marketta makes a return to the Jacaranda City on June 8.

The evening of food, run and entertainment was a huge success at its inaugural outing and organisers say even more businesses have got behind the event this year.

The NSW Government has also come to the party with $150,000 to cover this event and four similar events planned for other Clarence Valley centres during rest of the year.

Event organiser with Clarence Valley Council Deborah Merritt said more Clarence food businesses and dance groups had expressed an interest in this year’s event.

“It’s great to see, because it shows the word is getting out and people understand how

they can make this work for them,” Ms Merritt said.

The funding this year

will also be distributed around the Valley with a total of fve community events to be held before the end of the year.

Ms Merritt said there would events in South Grafton, Ulmarra, Wooli and Maclean, with the only stipulation that each event was totally community driven.

“Each one is going to be different from the other and represent what each community wants

to say about itself,” she said.

“For example something like Marketta, which is designed to give bricks and mortar businesses a street presence, would not work in Wooli,” she said.

“The community there is looking to celebrate its natural beauty with the river, beaches and National Parks.

“And Ulmarra would be looking to do something different again, more quirky with something that captures the spirit of the community.”

Ms Merrett said the entertainment in Grafton on June 8 would top notch.

“A lineup of talented performers including Uncle Ken Gordon, Lennox Monaghan, Garimaa Ngahri, Sam Dyball, Eli Fahey Band and Pistol Whip will put on an unforgettable show,” she said.

“Entry is free, so bring your friends and family for a night flled with entertainment and good eats.”

Northern Rivers Housing and Homelessness Crisis: A Call to Action

The Northern Rivers’ leading local government organization is urgently calling on both the NSW and Commonwealth Governments to intensify efforts to address the severe housing and homelessness crisis plaguing the region.

Michael Lyon, Chair of the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation (NRJO), expressed profound concern over the latest fgures showing Byron Shire once again topping the annual NSW Street

Count for rough sleepers.

“Secure, affordable housing is a fundamental human need, essential for the liveability and wellbeing of the Northern Rivers communities,” Chair Lyon stated. “The current level of homelessness in our region is utterly unacceptable.”

Chair Lyon pointed out the stark disparity in funding for homelessness services, noting that while Sydney receives relatively high levels of

support, regional areas like the Northern Rivers suffer from grossly inadequate funding.

“We urgently need a signifcant funding commitment from both levels of government.

Our region’s need is the greatest, and the regional inequity is beyond comprehension,” he said.

The NRJO’s submission to the Australian Government’s proposed National Housing and Homelessness Plan

last year underscored the crisis’s aggravation due to extraordinary population growth during the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastation from the 2022 food disaster.

“We have consistently communicated to both the NSW and Commonwealth Governments that social housing levels in the Northern Rivers are critically low, comprising only one to four percent of all housing stock in our member councils’

areas,” Chair Lyon added. “Adequate social and affordable housing is crucial for helping our most vulnerable citizens transition out of homelessness. Every community member in our region deserves safe, dignifed housing.”

Improving community wellbeing now and into the future is one of the fve strategic regional priorities established by the NRJO. A central goal in achieving this priority is enhancing the

availability, affordability, and diversity of housing to meet the current and future needs of the Northern Rivers population. To this end, the NRJO and its member councils are committed to partnering with relevant government and non-government organizations to support increased access to social housing and crisis accommodation services across the region.

The Eli Fahey Band gets the crowd rocking at Marketta last year. Eli and the band is back again fun 2024.

The big centre stage in Prince St was a focal point for the crowds that focked to Grafton for the inaugural Marketta in 2023 and is sure be so again.

There was entertainment for people of all ages and this face painter had a steady stream of customers throughout the evening last year.

By Tim Howard

Yamba residents concerned about development on foodplains have a chance to voice those concerns this Friday when State Government committee looking into residential planning visits the region.

Members of the Portfolio Committee 7 will tour sites in West Yamba during the morning to get a frst hand look at the issues residents have faced as more developments come to council for development in the region.

After the February/ March 2022 food events, which inundated many homes in West Yamba, residents have become concerned more development would put people at risk during rain events and increase the severity of the fooding for existing building owners.

Residents group Yamba Community Action Network said it would be good for as many residents as possible to come to the Carrs Dr area

Flood plain development protest

around 8.30am with signs and placards to get their message across to the committee members.

The group has also prepared an extensive document package including USB devices containing Powerpoint presentations used to illustrate the issues residents face in 2022 when homes were fooded and people cut off for days due to the rising foodwaters.

Originally the committee was to visit the region for two days

and hear residents’ submissions.

This had been how the committee had conducted visits to areas on the NSW South Coast and Sydney earlier in the year.

However, earlier this month the committee decided it would cut the Northern section of its tour between Port Macquarie and the Tweed to just two days.

The committee chair, Greens MLC Sue Higginson, said this was regrettable, but had to be done because of time

constraints.

Yamba Can said the Committee would travel down Carrs Drive.

A spokesperson warned there were strict protocols for observers to follow to ensure they remained at a distance from the committee members as they visited sites.

“Yamba CAN Inc would like as many people as possible to stand on either side of Carrs Dr, near the access to Harold Tory Dr and O’Grady’s Lane,” the spokesperson said.

“We will have our

banners and signs that observers can hold up when the committee will be driving past in a bus.

“Please ensure personal safety in relation to traffc movement.”

People who wish to take part should be on site at about 8.20am ready to hold a sign.

Residents have shown they are prepared to demonstrate en masse when given a chance to demonstrate their opposition to what they say is unsuitable development.

Earlier this year A Current Affair visited the region to look into the issues around food plain development in the region.

Ms Higginson said residents were welcome to make their feelings known to the committee. 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. She said the information gathered would be part of an interim report in August that would 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.

Casual speeding is the biggest cause of trauma on NSW roads

Yamba residents bring out their signs and placards to demonstrate against food plain development in West Yamba when the TV program

A Current Affairs visited the area earlier this year.

Winter Deepens Homelessness Struggles

By Sarah Waters

A blanket is the difference between life and death for someone who is forced to live on the streets during winter, says Theresa Mitchell.

Mrs Mitchell is all too aware of the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness, especially as the temperature starts to drop.

As the founder of Agape Outreach in Tweed Heads she has helped thousands of people in the TweedByron region since 2009.

Agape provides homeless and vulnerable people with meals and clothing and also links them to support services.

This month, Agape launched its annual Winter Appeal to provide further support and comfort for those less fortunate.

The public are asked to help by donating blankets, tents, tarps, warm clothing and footwear.

Mrs Mitchell said warm and waterproof items made all the difference for people in need during winter.

“We have some really old, fragile, vulnerable people that are going to be sleeping in the elements,” she said.

“Just imagine if it was your grandma that was out there sleeping under a bridge at wintertime.

“It would be wonderful to be in a position to pay for some of these people to sleep in motels.”

With homelessness and housing insecurity at an all time high, Agape have experienced more demand for their services

than ever.

The charity makes - and distributes - 1000 meals each week to people in the Tweed-Byron region and even throughout the Gold Coast.

On average,150 people come into the centre each day in need of food, clothing or sometimes a friendly and supportive face to talk to.

Mrs Mitchell said there has been a noticeable increase in the number of families, women and young people coming in for help.

And it’s not necessarily just because they are sleeping on the streets.

Many of them need help with food because the cost of living is so high, and others need warmer clothing because they can’t afford their energy

bills.

“There’s so many different elements to poverty,” Mrs Mitchell said.

housing, not enough food and nutrition … they can’t pay the bills and things are unfortunately getting worse.”

Mrs Mitchell is studying clinical psychology so she can help people with their mental health when they come to Agape.

entirely community funded and rescues more than two tonnes of edible food per week.

With the growing need for the charity’s services, Mrs Mitchell said she hopes the government will step in and help out a bit.

Page 9

By Sarah Waters

“We’ve got so many people with housing insecurity - if not homeless - and so many more people facing homelessness.

She is currently fve years into her study and is working towards completing her master’s degree.

Since she founded Agape 15 years ago, it

Tweed Heads Charity Struggles to Keep Up

has grown to a team of 270 volunteers and fve paid staff members.

“There’s not just food insecurity, there’s electricity insecurity and of course it all impacts on people’s mental health as well… the mental health out there is really bad because people are not coping.

“They are not getting

In addition to providing meals and clothing, Agape helps people access NDIS, housing, legal and medical services, runs a psychology department and hosts sessions in life skills and wellbeing.

The organisation is

“We don’t have money to go beyond the 1000 meals a week that we make.

“We’ve had to turn some people away, sadly, and that will probably increase.

“But you know, we’re not funded, we have to fundraise for every dollar – we’re just keeping our heads above water.”

If you can help out with donations for Agape’s Winter Appeal please drop them into Agape Outreach at 56 Recreation Street, Tweed Heads.

Another option is to donate funds and Agape will purchase items on your behalf, please phone: 07 5293 7154.

For more information, please visit:

The invaluable contribution of volunteers across the country were celebrated last week for National Volunteer Week.

Volunteer Week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering held from May 20 - 24.

The special event highlighted the important role of volunteers in the community and invited people not currently volunteering to give it a go.

The Northern Rivers Times caught up with some of the volunteers at Agape Outreach in Tweed Heads, a charity which supports homeless and vulnerable people.

The public are asked to donate warm and waterproof clothing to Agape’s Winter Appeal to help people living on the streets

Theresa Mitchell founded Agape Outreach in Tweed Heads in 2009

By Samantha Elley

It’s not every day you get to hear about the moon coming for a visit, but that was what happened to Casino Christian School students when author and standup comedian Gary Eck came to visit last week.

As part of Beef Week celebrations, Gary read his latest children’s book, The Day the Moon Came to Stay to a group of very invested and intrigued Kindie and Year One students.

“I kind of see myself in a sense as a story teller,” he said.

“Everything I do has some sort of narrative. I am a stand up comic by trade.

“I’ve been doing it for 30 years and that in itself is micro-storytelling, telling short jokes, long jokes.

“I’ve always aspired to longer form stuff.”

A visit with Gary Eck and the moon

From the days of Tropfest, where he won with his short flm The Money in 2014, to his work in Happy Feet 2 with George Miller, Gary has always been involved in telling

stories.

His recent work has been involved in telling stories to children, including the animated series Ginger and the Vegesaurs, which can be viewed on ABC Kids.

“We are in our third season, which comes out in June,” he said.

“It’s the number two show on the BBC, just behind Bluey.”

His latest book, which he was able to read to the

students at the school, is entitled The Day the Moon Came to Stay.

“This one, I remember when my son was about three and there was a big full moon,” he said.

“I was holding him and

“We’re taking on the world in France”

he was looking up at the moon and he was trying to grab (it).”

“Then I thought ‘what if the moon came here and it was only six feet tall?’.”

From there, as Gary said, the story wrote itself where the main character, Billy, sees the moon is sad and so sends an invitation to the big celestial being to come for a visit.

A captivated audience of young listeners giggled and watched as Gary narrated the story, showing the effects of what happens when the moon visits.

Afterwards, he proceeded to show how you send a message to the moon via the Zoomer Boomer 3000 paper airplane.

The book, written by Gary Eck and illustrated by Nick O’Sullivan, is available online at amazon.com.au.

By Tim Howard

Personal touch never stronger for Troy

On tour again for the frst time since 2019, Australian country music singer/songwriter Troy Cassar-Daley, will showcase the most personal music he has written in his 30-plus year career.

The 33-date national tour kicks off in Pomona, Queensland this week, then heads to the Casino RSM on May 30.

He will play six shows at venues on the North Coast

The tour combines with the May 10 release of his latest album, Between the Fires.

Troy says the album, which was written as he dealt with the death, in mid-2022, of his mum, Gumbaynggirr Elder Auntie Irene Daley, was the most personal music he was written.

“Losing mum was the most confronting experience of my life,” he said. “It took me 12 months to unpack that stuff, but writing music

88

Lawence Historical Society volunteer and life member, Eulie (Eulalie) Allen was 88 years old on the 26nd May, making her not only the oldest volunteer at Lawrence Museum but also the longest serving. Eulie was born in Newcastle in 1936 and moved to Lawrence with her late husband Jim in 1998.

Eulie joined the Historical Society in 2000, and as part of the original group, approached Broadcast Australia for the purchase of the vacant former 2NR Broadcast Station building to establish the Lawrence Museum. They negotiated the purchase of the building for the cost of the legal fees. So many raffes and cake stalls later, they were able to move in.

The building had been

has really helped me heal.

“Performing these songs is going to be very personal. It’s me living out how I came to terms with mum’s passing.”

He wrote and recorded the album in his mum’s home at Halfway Creek, south of Grafton, which has added another layer of feeling to the album.

“Mum’s spirit was very much there, almost overseeing what was being made,” he said.

“The song Somedays is about mum not being part of my life any more.”

He said writing the album brought home the loss of both his mum and dad.

“The simple fact that you can’t just pick up the phone and just say ‘hi mum’ or ‘hi dad’ really comes home to you,” he said.

“I never thought I’d be making a record around those emotions.

“But it shines a light for you on the track to fnd your way ahead.”

The period after his mum’s death also put pressure on his marriage to wife Laurel and Troy has said the album title Between Two Fires was inspired by his feelings during that time.

Although the music is the most intensely personal he has written Troy is looking forward to sharing it with his audience, particularly on the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast.

“There are people, family and friends, who will be in the audience, who saw me get into fghts under the trees at school,” he said.

“Now they’re seeing me up on stage writing and singing music as a career.

“These shows are very special because of that.” He said revealing his most personal feelings was part of his role as a singer/songwriter.

“If a musician doesn’t have anything to say, it’s not worth them getting up there to perform,” he said.

Troy said his 90-minute show will be packed with music picked from his 30-year career but will include fve songs from his new album.

He said a song like Old Road Home, from Between the Fires, would resonate with a lot of people on the Northern Rivers.

“It’s an old bloke recalling what it’s like to drive from Brisbane down to Coffs Harbour,” he said.

“Remembering all those little places you use to call into and the stories that go with them.”

Writing and singing about such personal experiences has made Troy – a proud Gumbaynggirr/ Bundjalung man – one of Australian music’s most powerful story tellers.

It has also brought him countless awards, including 40 Golden Guitars, fve ARIA awards, four CMAA Entertainer of the Year titles, and three APRA

Song of the Year awards.

There have also been 32 number-one chart singles and numerous gold and platinum albums that confrm him as an icon of Australian music.

But he also realises the importance of passing the baton and the Between the Fires tour will also allow him to showcase some of the next generation of musicians.

Troy will perform in Northern NSW on:

May 30 – Casino RSM - Casino - NSW May 31 - Twin Towns ShowroomTweed Heads - NSW

June 6 - South West Rocks Country Club

June 7 - Coffs Harbour CEX

June 8 - Yamba Yamba Bowls

June 9 - Coutts Crossing Coronation Hall To get tickets, go to https://troycassardaley. com.au

years old and still volunteering!

vacant for some years and was in a derelict state, the doors off, and cattle camping inside. Both Jim and Eulie were active with the big clean up. Eulie recalls fellow volunteers Rae Harrison and Olive Webb climbing ladders to clean the windows, “I scrubbed the foors,’ she explained” I couldn’t fall very far doing that job.”

It took 2 years to repair and clean the building and begin the Museum collection. The Museum was fnally opened on June 12, 2004, by Allan Rawson, Regional News Editor of the ABC.

Even in the early days, members were very conscious of meeting fnancial commitments, and the ladies of the Bluff Point Quilters, many of them Society members too, annually held a Bluff Point Quilters Exhibition

to raise funds for the operation of the Lawrence Museum.

Eulie has been a contributing member of the quilters since inception. The quilter’s meet for one day a week, and create not only beautiful patchwork quilts, but also knit, crochet and hand sew items for charities.

The members held garage sales and other fundraising events to pay the bills.

Eulie has seen the Museum grow from these early beginnings to the much-praised Museum we have today.

“Of course, we did not have access to the resources we have today, none of us were trained to operate a museum, but we were all very passionate to keep our history alive for the community and future generations.”

Vice President Roz Jones has worked with

Eulie for several years.”

Eulie has worked from the grass roots level through to conservation and digital cataloguing of items. Eulie is always ready to learn more, enjoys moving with times and regularly participates in our skills workshops.”

“We were delighted to present Eulie with Life Membership in 2018

Eulie is a great mentor for new volunteers, she has a great knowledge of

the collection, museum practices, Lawrence history and loves working with people. Her colleagues enjoy working with her and describe her as ‘kind, caring, humble, she always has time for you’.

Eulie believes it is very important to have museums preserve our social history and sees the Society as a great learning opportunity, for both history and conservation.” We need to keep our museums to preserve our history for the future generations.”

The Lawrence Historical Society welcomes new volunteers, especially those willing to be weekend guides. If you can spare 3 hours week, please call Roz on 0429 477 102. You don’t need to know anything about the history, all training will be given.

Samantha’s Book

From Addiction to Empowerment: Caroline

Bellenger’s journey and why she volunteers

The Day the Moon Came To Stay

Title: The Day the Moon Came To Stay

Author: Gary Eck

Price $26.99

By Samantha Elley

Billy noticed one night that the moon looked very sad.

He was worried that it had been hit by a meteorite and might not be well.

He wondered if there was any way he could cheer the moon up.

Of course, it is no easy feat to send a message to the moon, but Billy managed to do it, thanks to his Zoomer Boomer 3000, a super duper paper airplane that could travel fast distances.

at is, a er it had been chewed up, stomped on and had a skateboard ridden over it.

By Sarah Waters

Caroline Bellenger draws on her journey of triumph over addiction to empower others through wellness workshops she leads at Agape Outreach in Tweed Heads.

The workshops are tailored to support vulnerable individuals on their journey towards improved mental health, by educating them about ftness, nutrition and mindfulness.

Billy gets the biggest surprise when the moon takes him up on his o er and comes to stay.

What happens next is a series of adventures, that could only really happen to a moon when it comes to visit.

Gary Eck is a well known stand up comedian and along with his illustrator, Nick O’Sullivan, are cocreators of the animated series Ginger and the Vegesaurs. ey have collaborated on this beautifully illustrated and written children’s book, which also gives an underlying lesson on the importance of the moon in our lives.

Like all of us, the moon has a very speci c role to play in daily life, and Billy soon discovers what that is.

e book is available online at amazon.com. au.

In 2009, Caroline changed her life around. She overcame 20 years of alcohol and drug addiction, which resulted from childhood sexual abuse trauma.

Sport and ftness played a pivotal role in her journey to overcoming addiction, she said.

“I was a highly functioning addict - I held down corporate jobs, travelled the world and still played sports, but it all catches up with you,” she said.

“After I got out of rehab, I fnished my bronze medallion at the surf club - that was my goal to do that.

“I tried to get my bronze medallion before I went to rehab and failed.

“Through the surf club

training sessions, I started running.

“It was torturous at frst, but once I got to the 2km mark I started to feel better, and I just kept going.”

Caroline started to swap her one-hour Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, with one hour runs, once she felt AA had served its purpose.

She felt so good after a run, that her journey to wellness kept going - and going.

Not only did she get her bronze medallion, but she also started cycling and swimming in the ocean almost every day.

In 2019, Caroline, and her son, represented Australia at the World Triathlon Championships in Switzerland.

At the same time, she forged a prosperous career by transforming her passion for health and wellness into a thriving business, offering life coaching and ftness training.

She also opened her own gym.

And is now a soughtafter motivational speaker and best-selling author.

In 2019, Caroline was named Gold Coast Women of the Year

Wellness Warrior and has achieved many more accolades, including the 2023 winner of the global Women’s Business Club Positivity Award.

She said going back to university to fnish her honours degree at the age of 40 was one of her top achievements, along with representing Australia in a triathlon at 50 and climbing to Everest Base Camp.

When life presents challenges, Caroline laces up her running shoes instead of resorting to substances like she once used to.

“Running is my meditation; my head is still like a landmine of stuff,” she said.

“When I’m really stressed, I just go for a run.”

And it is that type of advice which she shares with others through her wellness workshops at Agape.

She also believes that vulnerable individuals can thrive when their needs are addressed at a holistic level, beyond the mere provisions of food and shelter.

“We get really engaged with them - I teach them body connection,

nutrition, exercise, meditation, belief systems - and I’ve had some amazing breakthrough moments with them.

“I’m all about helping people to build their self-esteem by making healthy choices.

“People often just need someone to believe in them, before they can believe in themselves.”

Caroline said volunteering at Agape has allowed her to give back and contribute to other people’s life journey.

“It also keeps me grounded too, because I can relate to a lot of the people who come here.

“Agape is a place where people who are homeless, disadvantaged, have mental health and drug issues can come and not be judged, because they often feel excluded and here, we don’t ask a lot of questions.

“Because of my own experience, I have no judgement and I believe everybody has intrinsic value.”

For more information on the wellness workshops at Agape Outreach please visit: agapeoutreachinc. com

Every edition published online and free

Caroline Bellenger represented Australia in a triathlon at the age of 50 after overcoming 20 years of addiction

The wellness workshops at Agape Tweed are facilitated by Caroline Bellenger

2024 Casino Beef Week Recap

I felt the trepidation ripple through my luxurious winter fur. OMG, what is ‘Mum Jane’ on about now? She informed me last night that we needed to have a serious summit to-day ‘cos it’s ‘Our House Budget’ time. (‘Leemo Cat’ back). When I retired last night I was as enthralled about this ‘summit’ as I would be about having my delicate paws nailed to the oor to stop me evading the inevitable drivel ahead. My instructions were delivered tersely by the old woman at lightsout. ‘Leemo, please have tea, bikkies, pens & notepads ready at 9.30am sharp. Gottit?’ e time arrived & she strolled to the ‘summit’ table dressed in a purple velvet suit from about 1968 (with FLARED trousers. just horrendous!) a tie & peery glasses (looking like a miserly Ms. Scroogette) & plonked herself down ‘I shall now commence. (A gavel was banged loudly) ‘Have those in attendance read the Agenda?’ She put 2 hands up; I put up half a paw & got a crabby glare. ‘I will therefore continue. On a review of our nances, there are certain cost-cutting steps that must be taken to enable us to survive the crippling winter ahead & the extortionate cost of living involving all present.’ (As I and SHE were the only ones present I felt her comment outrageously stupid, but kept it to myself.) She banged her silly Gavel again & said ‘Please refer to Agenda Item 1. ose present will stand & outline a

”

plan relating to what they are prepared to give up to help our dire nancial situation. Mr Leemo, proceed please.’ Another Gavel bang. (‘Mum Jane’s’ Gavel is a rock taped to a ruler, OMG? In my 75 cat years this inane scenario would score a blue ribbon as the clear winner in the ‘Mum Jane Stupidity’ stakes but I stayed quiet) I proceeded.

‘Ms Chairlady, (hissing silly old bat under my breath) a er consideration of your words, please note for the Minutes that I, Leemo Cat, for my part, will sacri ce the following; I will, with heavy heart, give up Smoked Cod, Hot Chips, Lambs Fry, Choko Pickles, Sour Cream, Crumbed Brains, McDonalds, Tripe & Onions, Eggplant…eeek, I was rudely interrupted. e shonky Gavel was banged so hard the table reverberated. ‘MR LEEMO, (shouty voice) you are in total contempt of this Summit. e list you have submitted contains not one item that you eat anyhow, making it clear you will be making no sacri ces at all. It is noted you haven’t mention your mini ‘3 A DAY’ cans of Pate, Sou é or Mousse from Aldi?. WELL?’

If you forego those luxuries and switch to Black & White cans of minced something or other, we could save $ hugely, Gottit?’ I pondered & gured I TRULY had nothing to lose so I shouted back at her. ‘OK Mum, pray tell, what are YOU giving up, c’mon, out with it ‘cos I’ve got an idea.’ OH DEAR, the pruney countenance went pale & a quivery voice asked, what idea Leems?’ ‘Well Mum, you could take your hideous purple suit to an Antique Fair & ‘probly get $23.25 for it; take most of your clothes & your ugly hats along as well & maybe get another $37? Would that help?’ Hmmm, looking at her poor sad face I reckon its truce time. I jumped up into her lap & we had a snuggle & I purred loudly. (I reckon I WON this time!) With kinda happy purrsies, Leemo.

Diary of a Flood Survivor

I got all excited last week when I received a media alert regarding the Resilience Land program to be announced at Woodburn.

My frst thought was, they must be opening up land nearby for those who have been food affected and received a buyback.

My excitement was somewhat tempered when the announcement was in regards to funding provided to Richmond Valley Council to explore the options of opening 1500 sites at Fairy Hill, north of Casino.

The funds provided will help the council determine the viability of such a large area of land and, hopefully, when opened, food survivors will be given top priority if they are registered with the Resilient Homes program.

This is a huge step in providing food resilience for future families, so here’s hoping when it happens, the prices of the blocks of land will be affordable for those who need it the most.

I did manage to get in a question or two about the Resilient Homes program, specifcally in regards to the house raising and retroftting of existing homes.

I was told that an

announcement on this was ‘imminent’, so keep an eye out for future developments.

Many of our creative residents have done their bit to remember and memorialise, not just the food event, but also the actions of those who bravely fought through.

The video Tinny Heroes was one such piece of work, but there was another video I watched on the food and its effects in Broadwater

called Broadwater: Our Town Under Water on Vimeo.

It is about 40 minutes long and be warned, you will need tissues.

I don’t recommend viewing it if you still have bad memories, however, it is an incredible record of the events of two years ago, seen through the lens of a food survivor.

Little Steps.

Tweed Council Honours Local Heroes During National Volunteer Week 2024

Council will use National Volunteer Week to celebrate the signifcant contribution volunteers make across the Tweed and to spotlight those who so selfessly give back to the community.

National Volunteer Week, Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering, will be held from Monday 20 - Sunday 26 May. The event aims to highlight the vital role volunteers play in communities across the country.

According to the latest Census, nearly 14,000 people in the Tweed reported doing some sort of volunteer work – this equates to 14.3% of the local population.

This year, the theme for National Volunteer Week is ‘Something for Everyone’ which aims to recognise the diverse interests and talents people bring to volunteering.

Council’s Manager Inclusive and Creative Communities Shannon Carruth said it was important the work of volunteers was recognised – especially

considering the events of the past few years such as the foods and COVID-19, the effects of which can still be felt.

“I encourage all residents to join me in celebrating our volunteers this week and every week. Whether through a simple thank you, a kind gesture, or a commitment to giving back in your own way, let’s show our appreciation for those who make the Tweed the wonderful place that it is,” Ms Carruth said.

“From the brave SES and RFS volunteers who help us in times of crisis, to the volunteer lifesavers who keep us safe along our beautiful coastline and those who give up their time to take care of our beaches, bushland and rivers. The hard-working volunteers who are the heart and soul of our local sports clubs and community groups, to those helping to build a vibrant community at local events and facilities, and the many compassionate individuals who give their time in our charity

shops, animal rescue centres – and everything in between – we say thank you.

“We want to collectively show our immense appreciation for all that you do to help the Tweed’s people and places to thrive.”

Some Tweed Shire volunteers have already been formally celebrated and recognised this year for their tireless work at the 2024 Tweed Shire Council Australia Day Awards. Tweed resident Kate McKenzie, who co-founded Fingal Head Coast Care in 1986, took out the Volunteer of the Year Award (Individual) for her dedication to the local environment.

And the Chinderah Community Hub, established in the aftermath of the 2022 food, took out the Volunteer of the Year Award (Group) for their dedication to helping those in need across the Tweed.

Past winners of the Tweed Local Achievement Awards during Seniors Week have been long-

standing members of organisations such as the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS), people that support local wildlife and environmental organisations, and those that give their time to make the Tweed a more inclusive place.

Council offers a range of volunteer opportunities including at the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Centre and Tweed Regional Museum, where passionate volunteers support visitors to have a more positive and enriching experience and are an integral part of daily operations.

Other volunteer opportunities exist in events, environmental sustainability and projects.

For information and resources about volunteering, visit Volunteering Australia. For information about volunteering with Council, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/ volunteering.

“Leemo has views on just about anything

‘MUM JANE’S PURPLE VELVET SUIT’

At the media alert about new blocks opening up for food survivors. Photo: Trish Parker.

What does the current federal government solar discount mean for

The federal government provides a solar discount to home owners and businesses in Australia that install a small scale renewable energy system (solar, wind or hydro) under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) to help with the purchase cost. Installing an eligible system allows the creation of Small-scale Technology Certifi cates (STCs). The number of STCs created is based on:

•The amount of renewable electricity the system produces or the amount of electricity consumption it reduces.

•The climate region where it’s installed.

Under the package, the federal government will pay around $350 per kilowatt towards cost of a solar system. This amount reduces at the end of the calendar year (every year up until 2030 when the program is finished) so the right time to invest in solar is now

Three great packages if you mention this ad!

you?

Let’s break it down

Maxine and Daniel are considering a 5.28KW solar system, supplied and installed by ProSolar for $6,937. The federal government discount for this system is $1,938 (at time of publishing). This brings their system cost down to $4999 saving them $1,850 per year enabling them to pay back their investment in 2.98 years!

Alternatively, the same system can be financed for $27 per week. This can be an attractive way to reduce your bill and put the money you would normally pay your power company into your very own power system on your rooftop.

ProSolar provides advice and guidance in a simple and easy way, to ensure you select the optimal solution for your home and budget. This is the best opportunity Northern Rivers families and business owners have ever had to generate our own power For more information, call ProSolar on 02 7912 0760 or 0482 082 304.

ProSolar has designed three great packages to help you take advantage of the federal government discount.

6.6kW Solar System

• 15 x JA 440W N-Type BiFacial Panels with a 25-year product and 30-year warranty

• 1 x GoodWe 5kW inverter with a 10-year premium warranty

• Cost $8393

• Less federal government discount of $2394

• Total cost after discount = $5999 or $29 per week.

8.8kW Solar System

• 20 x JA 440W N-Type BiFacial Panels with a 25-year product and 30-year warranty

• 1 x GoodWe 8.5kW inverter with a 10-year premium warranty

• Cost $11,229

• Less federal government discount of $3230

• Total cost after discount = $7,999 or $39 per week.

10.56kW Solar System

• 24 x JA 440W N-Type BiFacial Panels with a 25-year product and 30-year warranty

• 1 x GoodWe 10kW inverter with a 10-year premium warranty

• Cost $13,367

• Less federal government discount of $3875

• Total cost after discount = $9,490 or $49 per week.

The above prices include supply, installation (standard installation on a tin roof) and GST. The federal government discount is subject to change at anytime.

Gratitude is no platitude…by

Nigel Dawe

“Gratitude,” once said the Roman Statesman Cicero, “is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others.” It gives rise and reason to being not just the best version of ourselves, but also to being our most appreciative of life: irrespective of whether we fnd ourselves hobnobbing it in a palace, or barely getting by in a rickety hovel.

That the origin of our modern-day word ‘gratitude’ stems from the old Latin term ‘gratus’, which means ‘thankful’, makes complete and utter sense. It is a quality that truly imbues, if it doesn’t outright imbibe those of a philosophical nature. None other than Meister Eckhart, the 14th Century German theologian once aptly said, “If the only prayer you said was thank you, that would be enough.”

It’d be an interesting exercise (and one I’ve yet to even do myself) to count how many ‘thank-yous’ we give on any given day. If the tally was less than 24 – one for each hour of the day, then we ought to take a long, hard and corrective look at ourselves. It is a simple assessment along the clearcut lines of what G. K. Chesterton once noted, “When it comes to life, the critical thing is whether you take things for granted, or take them with gratitude.”

Relatedly, John Ortberg once very succinctly chimed, “Gratitude is the ability to experience life as a gift. It liberates us from the prison of self-preoccupation.”

That being the most atrocious and restrictive ‘occupation’ of all; it is also one that doesn’t allow for any free range, let alone expression

HOW TAFE NSW BALLINA IS HELPING FUTURE

PROOF NORTHERN RIVERS NURSING

The national peak body for nurses has highlighted the important role TAFE NSW Ballina is playing to address a skills shortage in the Northern Rivers region and helping futureproof the local nursing workforce.

or acceptance of the importance and value of others, a value that is equal, real and as ‘righteous’ as our own. Without subscribing to, or encouraging any fip outlooks that require tinted glasses – that make everything appear wonderful; we do need to adopt a mindset that somehow fosters a response akin to the views of Roy T. Bennett, who once said, “Being grateful does not mean that everything is necessarily good. It just means that you can accept it as a gift… Gratitude builds a bridge to abundance.”

Being able to see, and then savour, in a default fashion – the beautiful, the special, and the good – is a great place to start applying gratitude where, and when it matters most: which is at each and every moment of our lives. The next step is to express these responses to everyone that makes a difference in so many countless ways.

Or as William Arthur Ward once suggested, “Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.”

Like a strange, real-life or three-dimensional game of snakes and ladders, by keeping gratitude to ourselves we rapidly sink, if not slide back into the indulgent mire of self-preoccupation. Life is not all about ‘us’, it is infnitely more about acknowledging those we share our days with. And as Neal A. Maxwell once said in such stocktaking fashion, “We should certainly count our blessings, but we should also make our blessings count.”

The Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) said there was never a more important time to invest in the future of nursing, saying training providers like TAFE NSW were critical.

Research by Health Workforce Australia found that due to an ageing workforce and growing population, there could be a national shortfall of 100,000 nurses by 2025.

APNA CEO Ken Griffth described TAFE NSW Ballina’s role in training the next generation as a “positive sign for Australia’s health”.

“It’s essential that nurses entering the health system are trained well and can have the opportunity to develop their skills where we need them most, particularly in primary health care and in rural and remote settings,” Mr Griffn said.

“The increased interest in studying nursing at TAFE NSW is a positive sign for Australia’s health.

“We know that nursing is a fulflling career. The

role that Enrolled Nurses play in the health care system is vital and this will only grow over the coming years.”

The NSW Government is investing $3 million over the next three years to upgrade nurse training facilities at TAFE NSW campuses across the state.

Brett Swalling is one of many TAFE NSW Ballina graduates armed with the practical skills and work experience to make a running start into his nursing career.

Brett graduated with a Diploma of Nursing in 2023 and now works as an enrolled nurse at Lismore Base Hospital, one of only 10% of Australian men in

enrolled nursing. He is advocating for more young men to choose a career in health.

“Nursing is a great lifelong career that can take you anywhere and you meet so many new people. TAFE NSW offers practical, hands-on learning, and the teachers are so supportive. I want to help remove the stigma for men in nursing and I encourage more men to consider it as an incredibly rewarding career path.

“Through my placements during the course, about the complex issues faced by our ageing population and the practical skills to help me hit the ground running.

Since graduating, I’m continuing to learn so much now working in orthopedics and acting as a leader and a mentor to other graduates coming through.

“There’s many opportunities for future leaders – like many industries, nursing is about knowing your personal strengths and fnding a pathway that will fulfl your skills,” Brett said.

Data from Economy ID reveals the Health Care and Social Assistance workforce is the largest industry by employment in the Ballina Shire, generating over 4,000 jobs in 2022/2023.

TAFE NSW Nursing Lead Dr Zach Byfeld said TAFE NSW worked closely with health providers and organisations such as APRA to help ensure TAFE NSW was keeping pace with workforce needs.

“We meet regularly with all our industry partners to come up with new and innovative ways to keep learners in communities and create a constant pipeline of new nurses,” Dr Byfeld said.

“Nurses are an indispensable part of the healthcare system, as was again highlighted during the pandemic and TAFE NSW is committed to continue training the nursing workforce of the future.”

Brett Swalling.

BIG RIVER CAMPDRAFT CLUB SCORES FUNDING TO UPGRADE ARENA AT HAWTHORNE EQUESTRIAN PARK IN SOUTH GRAFTON

Big River Campdraft Club (BRCC) has been awarded $6937 from the NSW Government to upgrade the centre arena rails at Hawthorne Park Equestrian Park in South Grafton, Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson announced at the annual Big River Campdraft on the weekend.

Mr Williamson said the current centre arena rails were in dire need of replacing to ensure all users are provided with a safe arena and was thrilled the BRCC had been successful in securing funding through the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant program to begin the project.

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

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

Mr Williamson said.

“I thank the BRCC volunteers who made this possible as without their commitment and dedication to the sport, none of this would have

“Local grassroots sporting clubs like the BRCC are essential to the community, and this investment will increase both competitor and spectator experience,”

been achieved.”

President of the BRCC, David Gillett said grants manager Lynne Hugginson had been working tirelessly to obtain funding to upgrade facilities at Hawthorne Park.

“The funding to begin replacing the rails on the centre arena is a

tremendous bonus for not only BRCC but all ten clubs and their members that use the facility,” Mr Gillett said.

“The upgrade not only enhances safety but also improves the visual appeal of the arena.

“Hawthorne Park infrastructure is built and maintained by local

club volunteers with the support of generous donations and grants.

“We would like to thank our local MP, Richie Williamson for supporting the community and investing in local equestrian activities.”

The Local Sport Grant program is annual

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

Further information can be found here https:// www.sport.nsw.gov.au/ grants/local-sport-grantprogram

Photo - Richmond Valley Council

Warning: Highdose MDMA tablets (ecstasy) circulating in NSW

NSW Health is warning the public of highdose MDMA tablets (ecstasy) in circulation across NSW, found to contain around twice the average dose of other MDMA tablets.

The purple-grey tablets have a ‘Punisher’ skull design on the front.

Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, Dr Darren Roberts, said consuming high doses of MDMA has been linked to cases of serious illness and death in NSW.

“MDMA can cause severe agitation, raised body temperature, seizures or fts, irregular heart rhythm and death,” Dr Roberts said.

“Other risks include taking MDMA in combination with other stimulants, such as amphetamines or cocaine.

“The amount of MDMA in a tablet or capsule can vary a lot, even within the same batch. The health risks from MDMA are greatly increased if high amounts (including multiple doses) are consumed over a short period.

“Hot environments,

such as at music festivals, increase the risk of harm from MDMA. Taking a break from dancing, seeking shade, and drinking water are important measures to reduce the risk of overheating.

“It is very important to remember, if you or a friend has taken drugs and feel unwell, you won’t get into trouble for seeking medical care. If you or a friend feels unwell, please seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero.

“There are experienced onsite medical providers and teams of well-trained peer volunteers from programs such as DanceWize NSW who are ready to support you at many major festivals. Other event staff are also trained to help patrons.”

For more information about staying safe, including the warning signs to seek help, see Stay OK at Music Festivals.

For information about the potential adverse effects of MDMA, please contact the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.

Tweed Regional Museum to get major lighting upgrade

STATE Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn has welcomed a $140,000 NSW Government grant to upgrade lighting at Murwillumbah’s Tweed Regional Museum in its 20th anniversary year.

Ms Saffn congratulated Museum Director Molly Green on her successful application under the Infrastructure Grants Program, made possible by the Clubgrants Category 3 Fund.

This fund reinvests a contribution from the state’s registered clubs’ gaming machine profts back into community projects.

In a community recognition statement lodged in Parliament last week, Ms Saffn paid tribute to the professionalism and

passion of Ms Green, Curator Erika Taylor and their dedicated support staff.

“It’s hard to believe it’s been two decades since three historical societies – Murwillumbah, Tweed Heads and Uki & South Arm – signed a Memorandum of Understanding to amalgamate under Tweed Shire Council’s

management,” Ms Saffn said.

“Over that time, the museum has grown exponentially into one of Australia’s leading regional museums.

“Molly Green is blessed by having a 30-strong team of volunteers, known as museum ambassadors.

“Tweed Regional Museum has amassed

a collection of more than 100,000 objects housed in the former Tweed Shire Council Chambers, built in 1915, and extended with a contemporary space in 2014.

“While the collection can also be viewed online, it is the high standard of rotating exhibitions for which the museum is renowned.”

Omnia: all and everything is a new major exhibition celebrating the 20-year milestone and will run until 23 November 2024.

Curated to redefne the traditional museum experience, Omnia invites visitors on an immersive journey through the vibrant history, dynamic present and promising future of the Tweed Shire.

New outreach team set to tackle homelessness in Byron

More people sleeping rough in the Byron area will receive the support they need with the NSW Government setting up a $1.3 million Assertive Outreach team to help people experiencing homelessness in the North Coast community.

The recent 2024 Street Count data painted a clear picture of the scale of the homelessness crisis in the region, with a 16 per-cent increase is people sleeping rough in the Byron Shire area.

Homes NSW has partnered with local service providers Social Futures and Momentum Collective to form the new cross-agency team, delivering intensive case management and outreach patrols to drive down homelessness.

The approach is based on the successful Tweed Assertive Outreach model, which employs staff with expertise in complex case management. The group started the frst of its regular Assertive Outreach patrols in the Byron area in March 2024.

Linking people sleeping rough with accommodation and

health services is a critical aspect of the Assertive Outreach model. The new team will be trialled for one year and is fully funded by the NSW Government.

The establishment of this new service is in addition to the Government’s $11 million investment in 2023-24 for homelessness services in Northern NSW, which covers the LGAs of Ballina, Byron Shire, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed.

Minister for Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“Homelessness should never become a repetitive cycle which is why we’ve set up this new team to help more people experiencing homelessness in the region to get back on their feet, connected with appropriate services and accommodation.

“It is heartbreaking that in the latest street count data 348 people were counted sleeping rough in Byron Shire LGA, accounting for the largest number in the state. We know we need to do

more to start turning that number around and getting people into homes.

“We will continue to invest and build on programs that are proven to help drive down the numbers of homelessness.

The expansion of the Assertive Outreach team is a strong step in the right direction as we continue to build on strengthening crucial homelessness services in the region.”

Social Futures CEO Tony Davies said:

“We welcome the extension of the Assertive Outreach Program to Byron. By tailoring personalised plans to meet unique needs, we support access to healthcare, assist with NDIS applications, and connect to vital support services.

“Social Futures has been an integral part of the Tweed Assertive Outreach pilot since 2019, providing intensive case management and support to participants. We are delighted to be part of the team bringing this award-winning program to Byron Shire.”

Momentum Collective

CEO Tracey Mackie said:

“Momentum Collective have worked with the Assertive Outreach pilot in Tweed Heads since inception in 2019, seeing a signifcant reduction of rough sleeping amongst clients we engaged with. One of the biggest outcomes of this model is that it demonstrates a sustaining tenancy rate of over 90% with people who have been rough sleeping through engagement with the program.

“With Byron Bay LGA having the highest number of rough sleepers in NSW following the 2023 Street Count, funding for this collaborative approach in the region will enable Momentum Collective and collaborative partners to build on the success of Assertive Outreach Tweed Heads and provide similar measurable decreases among the rough sleepers of Byron Bay.

“We are thrilled with the opportunity and appreciate the investment in this area from the NSW Government.”

Tweed Regional Museum Director Molly Green showing Lismore MP Janelle Saffn around the Omnia: all and everything exhibition.

Relax, have a break and enjoy BRISBANE

Enjoy good times in the CBD

Located in the heart of the Brisbane City CBD just steps from the Queen Street Mall shopping precinct, casino and cultural centre, travellers enjoy well-appointed one-bedroom apartment accommodation with free private parking, exceptional dining and amenities that include a recreation deck with heated pool, sauna and gymnasium

Experience the allure of stunning city views and the convenience of free private parking at this remarkable residence. Retreat to comfort with a queen-sized bed and a fold-out couch, complemented by amenities like free WiFi and an HD TV. Refresh in the modern bathroom, and enjoy access to the pool, steam room, sauna, and gym. Take in the cityscape from your private balcony, and indulge your culinary desires in the full-service kitchen equipped with a microwave, co ee machine, electric kettle, oven, toaster, and dishwasher. Complete your stay with private laundry facilities, including a complimentary washer and dryer, ensuring a seamless experience from start to nish.

- Split A/C (heating + cooling) in living area and bedroom - WIFI

- Parking for 1 car

- Balcony with seating

- Amenity note: Communal outdoor pool, sauna, bbq area and gym

To make a booking, simply scan the QR Code and select your getaway dates.

New partnership in delivering Together Home program

Northern Rivers Housing (NRH) have established a key collaborative partnership with Momentum Collective to deliver quality wraparound case management and support services for those housed by NRH under the Together Home Program.

NRH has been delivering all aspects of the program since 2020 having been awarded the contract by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice. The goal of Together Home is to transition people onto a trajectory away from homelessness and into long-term stable housing, while improving participants overall personal wellbeing.

In ensuring continuity of support for clients, enhancing clients’ outcomes, and taking hold of the expert skills of a local provider, NRH has engaged Momentum Collective to deliver specialist support services. Working to coordinate and strengthen relationships between the various services involved in a person’s support plan, including disability supports, Momentum Collective teams will work alongside Tenancy Managers of NRH to sustain strong tenancies within housing in the Northern Rivers of NSW.

NRH CEO Craig Brennan said of the partnership

“We know that when community-based organisations can work positively and productively together, we can achieve more for the people of our community. Housing is absolutely essential to improving a person’s life and to creating a thriving community.”

“Our already strong relationship with Momentum Collective will ensure that we are successful in facilitating pathways into longer term housing by meeting the increasing demand for support services from within our current tenant cohort – achieving

optimal outcomes for Together Home clients.”

Momentum Collective CEO Tracey Mackie says of the partnership

“We frmly believe that every person in Australia, no matter their situation, should have access to a safe and suitable accommodation.

Working with NRH, will enable even more individuals to access long-term housing away from homelessness.”

Partnering with organisations such as NRH, which share our values and mission, is integral to our approach. This collaboration represents an exciting opportunity to enhance our impact and effectiveness in serving the communities.”

NRH is a wellrespected not-for-proft organisation that manages and constructs quality, long term, and affordable housing.

As the largest local Tier One Community Housing Provider in the Northern Rivers Region, NRH supports local communities from Tweed Heads to Clarence Valley specialising in social housing, affordable housing, temporary housing, disaster response, and property management. Currently NRH manages close to 1,000 properties and over 1,700 tenancies under a variety of housing programs, as well as seven of the temporary accommodation villages.

Momentum Collective is a premier not-forproft organisation providing comprehensive community services ranging from community housing, disability accommodation and support, mental health and homelessness to family and domestic violence, child family and community services. With a proud 40-year, Momentum Collective’s reach extends from Mid North Coast to South East QLD. Last year, Momentum Collective assisted over 5,500 clients and families across the organisational footprint.

Goonellabah Skatepark Set for an Exciting Upgrade

The Goonellabah Skatepark is poised for exciting upgrades, with work scheduled to commence next week. The project, funded by the NSW Government under the Stronger Country Communities program, will introduce new skate elements and essential maintenance to enhance the experience for all users.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg expressed enthusiasm for the improvements. “I look forward to seeing the new and improved facilities at the Goonellabah Skatepark, which is already very popular and well used. These upgrades mean it will continue to be well used into the future,” he said. Mayor Krieg also thanked local member Janelle Saffn for securing the funding.

The upgrades, designed by Trinity Skateparks with input from local enthusiasts, include new ramps, a manual pad, loading dock and hydrant, fat rail, and a slappy curb. These additions will

offer new opportunities and challenges, catering to the growing number of skate, scooter, and BMX riders in the community.

In addition to the new elements, the project will address drainage improvements and remediation of the deteriorated skate foor surface, ensuring a smoother ride and extending the park’s lifespan. Fresh paint will rejuvenate the facility, making it a more attractive destination for skaters and spectators.

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn praised the project, emphasizing the importance of outdoor spaces for youth recreation and socialization. “I’m really pleased that the local skating community has had input into the improvements being made as skaters know best what is required to get the best out of the facility for all levels of ability and all ages,” she said.

Tony Duffy, Council’s

Manager Liveable and Active Communities, predicted the skating community would be thrilled with the upgrades. “The new elements and surface improvements will signifcantly enhance the facility, providing a safer and more enjoyable space for our local community. We’re committed to supporting active lifestyles and creating vibrant recreational spaces for our residents,” he said.

Work is expected to start on Wednesday, May 29, and is anticipated to be completed by July 12, weather permitting. The skatepark will be closed to the public during this period to ensure safety and swift completion of the upgrades.

Council appreciates the community’s patience and understanding during this time.

Alternative Recreational Facilities:

• Caniaba Skatepark (Perradenya Estate): Suitable for beginners, located in Adam Gilchrist Park.

• Nimbin Skatepark (Peace Park): Features a “snake run”, mini ramp, bowls, and street section for all skill levels.

• Wollongbar District Park: Includes a quarter pipe, rails, and ramps for beginners and intermediates.

• Bangalow Skatepark: Offers a large kidney bowl, double fow bowl, and street area with obstacles for all skill levels.

• Ballina Skatepark: Features transitions, bowls, rails, ledges, manual pads, stairs, and half pipes with a scenic river view.

• Jarjumirr Skate Park (Byron Bay): A competition-level skatepark with a 10ft bowl, beginner to intermediate areas, and a plaza section with granite ledges. For more information about the Goonellabah Skatepark upgrades, please visit the Your Say page.

Artist impression of the upgraded Goonellabah Skatepark.

Historic boost to health services on the NSW North Coast as the new Tweed Valley Hospital is offcially opened

The NSW Government is today offcially opening the $723.3 million Tweed Valley Hospital, a state-of-the-art health facility on the NSW North Coast that will also be supported by a new Urgent Care Service in the area and a brand new Ambulance Station in Kingscliff.

This investment will provide a signifcant boost to healthcare on the North Coast of NSW, a rapidly growing region that deserves the best access to world class healthcare.

Tweed Valley Hospital

The new Tweed Valley Hospital represents the largest capital health investment in the regions in NSW history, including capacity for 430 beds, almost 200 more beds than at the former hospital.

Key features of the hospital include:

• Access to radiotherapy services, as part of a new integrated cancer care service.

• New satellite medical imaging in the emergency department, to speed up access to support.

• An interventional cardiology service that is currently being developed, delivering diagnostic and interventional cardiology procedures for the frst time in Tweed.

• A clinical training and research hub through the Northern NSW Academic Health Alliance that brings together local universities, TAFE NSW and the Local Health district.

• And a new car park will provide over 1,000

free car parking spaces at the hospital campus.

Tweed Urgent Care Service

Further to the opening of the new hospital, residents in the Tweed will now also have access to an Urgent Care Service in Tweed that eases pressure on emergency departments by providing care to people in their homes.

The new service, launched only weeks ago, is initially treating elderly patients in the comfort of their home or Residential Aged Care Facility.

Next month the service will expand to operating seven days a week from 8.00am – 8.00pm, to support people of all ages across the Tweed region to receive urgent care at home.

The service will be staffed by a team of nurses, NSW Ambulance Extended Care

Paramedics and allied health professionals.

Kingscliff Ambulance Station

Ambulance services in the region are also being boosted with construction of Kingscliff’s new ambulance station, on track for completion in the coming months.

The new two-level ambulance station will replace a 65-year-old station on Marine Parade in Kingscliff.

It will feature eight internal parking bays (including an internal wash bay), administration and offce areas, staff rest facilities, gym, logistics and storage areas and on-site parking.

These new health facilities and services are further supported by the NSW Government’s commitment to rebuilding essential

services by addressing the staffng crisis inherited from the former government.

From lifting the wages cap, working to deliver 500 new paramedics in rural and regional NSW and implementing safe staffng levels while delivering paramedics a historic pay rise, the NSW Government is supporting the staff these new hospitals, ambulance stations and services need.

Quotes attributable to Premier Chris Minns:

“Whether you live in the middle of the city or in regional communities like the North Coast, we’re working hard to make sure everyone has access to the very best health care.

“This new hospital as well as a new urgent care service and ambulance station are going to make a huge difference to this

rapidly growing region in NSW.

“We are not only committed to delivering the very best health facilities but also to looking after the staff in them who look after all of us.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:

“This $723.3 million hospital is the one of the largest hospital investments in NSW history,”

“For the community here in Tweed, this facility means hundreds more hospital beds, more ED treatment spaces, and more single patient rooms.

“New services at the hospital are estimated to beneft 5,000 patients each year by giving them access to care locally, without needing to travel outside the region as was previously the case.

“We’re also pleased the Urgent Care Service is up and running, enabling residents to receive high quality, expert care without leaving their home, providing a better patient experience and easing pressure on the region’s busy emergency departments.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Lismore

Janelle Saffn:

“I am proud to be part of a Government which is committed to investing in rural and regional health infrastructure to support better health outcomes for local communities.”

“This new hospital, the establishment of an urgent care service and a new ambulance station at Kingscliff will provide benefts for Tweed and beyond.”

Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for the Tweed Emily Suvaal MLC:

“I thank our incredible health staff, leaders and managers who have been integral to this project, ensuring the successful delivery of this fantastic health facility for the community.”

“As a former nurse, it is great to know this beautiful new hospital was designed in partnership with clinicians, staff and the community to deliver the best clinical outcomes for patients.”

“It’s also great the campus will be home to the Northern NSW Academic Health Alliance, which will build a pipeline of skilled healthcare workers for the Northern Rivers.”

Visual Storytelling + Personal Brand Workshop

Tenterfeld Public Library is hosting this special workshop in partnership with Workforce Australia – Local Jobs Program and Arts North West to provide practical experience in digital storytelling for local jobseekers or sole traders wanting to

develop a brand profle for their business idea.

Unlock your potential and stand out in today’s competitive job or small business market with the Visual Storytelling and Personal Brand workshop.

This 3-hour workshop equips participants with essential digital

Friday 21 June 2024

media skills to enhance any workplace, build awareness of digital footprint and strategies to craft their personal brand and practical experience in making video content for social media to boost future employment opportunities. Upon completion,

participants will receive a certifcate for their resume.

To register, contact Sewa Emojong from the Local Jobs program by email sewa@ nenwfacilitator.com.au or by phone 0423 556 377.

This is a Free event fully subsidised by the

Local Jobs Program and Arts North West. Contact the library for more information by email library@ tenterfeld.nsw.gov.au, phone 02 6736 6060 or pop in and talk to one of our friendly staff at 135 Manners Street Tenterfeld weekdays between 10.00am –

5.00pm.

Bookings via the QR code below.

Key Points:

CSIRO Releases 2023-24 GenCost Report

• Renewables remain the lowest-cost new electricity technology.

• Large-scale nuclear technology costs included for the frst time.

• Future wind costs revised upwards.

CSIRO, in partnership with the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), has released the 2023-24 GenCost report, a leading economic analysis of the costs associated with building future electricity generation, storage, and hydrogen production in Australia.

Signifcant Updates

• Inclusion of

Large-Scale Nuclear: Responding to increased stakeholder interest, this edition includes cost assessments for large-scale nuclear power for the frst time. Despite nuclear being more expensive than renewables and requiring at least 15 years for development, the report found no technical barriers to its implementation in Australia.

• Wind Power Costs: Projections for onshore and offshore wind costs have been revised upwards due to slow recovery from global infationary pressures.

• Renewables’ Competitive Position: Renewables, even with associated storage and transmission costs, remain the lowest-cost new build technology. This is due to a decade of cost reductions for wind, solar photovoltaics (PV), and batteries prior to the pandemic.

Stakeholder Engagement

CSIRO’s Director of Energy, Dr. Dietmar Tourbier, emphasized the importance of stakeholder feedback, which included over 40 written submissions and participation from more than 200 industry webinar

attendees. This feedback is crucial as cost forecasts can fuctuate signifcantly, and diverse technologies are necessary for the transition to net zero.

Report Highlights:

• Nuclear Power:

Based on South Korea’s successful nuclear program, the cost estimates for largescale nuclear assume a continuous building program in Australia. The initial investment would be high, but costs could decrease over time.

• Solar Thermal: Revised cost estimations now show solar thermal power to be competitive with nuclear and other

non-renewables that utilize carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.

• Infation Impact: While infationary pressures have eased, their impact varies across technologies. Onshore wind costs increased by 8%, while large-scale solar PV costs decreased by the same proportion.

Gas turbine costs saw an increase of up to 14%, while other technologies remained relatively steady.

Additional Resources

The report includes a new frequently asked questions section (Appendix D) to address

common stakeholder queries from current and past consultations.

AEMO’s Executive General Manager of System Design, Ms. Merryn York, and CSIRO’s Chief Energy Economist and GenCost lead author, Paul Graham, highlighted the importance of the GenCost report in strategic planning and policy analysis, particularly for the Integrated System Plan. For more detailed information, the full report can be accessed on the GenCost website.

Fire ant eradication treatment rolls out in Wardell

• Treatment is the only proven way to eradicate fre ants once and for all.

• The National Fire Ant Eradication Program must access 100% of targeted properties to ensure eradication success in Wardell, New South Wales.

• Wardell residents are asked to provide treatment consent so fre ant teams can complete critical eradication work.

Residents in Wardell, New South Wales, are encouraged to let fre ant teams onto their properties to deliver critical eradication treatment – treatment has already started in certain areas.

The National Fire Ant Eradication Program (the program) must treat 100% of all targeted properties, regardless of whether fre ants are visible or not, to ensure eradication success.

Eradication treatment will be conducted on nearly 900 sites within 2 km of the detection site, further protecting the area and ensuring no undetected fre ants exist.

The program will deliver fre ant treatment using aircraft, utility terrain vehicles, and ground teams with handheld spreaders.

Aerial treatment proves to be one of the quickest and most cost-effective methods, enabling fre ant teams to treat large areas effciently.

Fire ant treatment is safe for people, animals, and the environment and is approved by the Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicines Authority. The treatment contains the same active ingredient commonly found in household and agricultural pest control products, but at a much lower concentration.

Eradication efforts will continue for years to come. Residents can expect fre ant teams to treat their properties multiple times over several years, followed by extensive surveillance.

How you can help

The National Fire Ant Eradication Program requires the consent of landowners to access properties in New South Wales.

If you are within the target area and have not already provided consent, it is important to do so as soon as possible.

The property information form enables landowners to advise of access restrictions, such as locked gates, animals, and waterways.

To provide treatment consent, please complete the property information form at: freants.org.au/

property-form

Visit freants.org. au or call 13 25 23 to learn more about fre ants and eradication treatment.

Ashley Bacon, Executive Program Director – National Fire Ant Eradication Program:

“We must treat 100% of all targeted properties whether fre ants are visible or not,” he said.

The National Fire Ant Eradication Program is a nationally cost-shared program funded by:

“Treatment can only be applied when conditions are suitable, which means rain,

wind, and unfavourable weather could impact the delivery and timing of treatment. We are making the most of each available day and are here to get the job done.

“Eradication is a national priority and is only possible if we all work together – the community, industry, and all levels of government.”

Cr Sharon Cadwallader, Mayor –Ballina Shire Council

“Now is the time for us to put a proactive foot forward and let fre ant teams in so they can do their important work and safeguard our region

from fre ants,” she said.

“If you have not already provided the National Fire Ant Eradication Program with consent to treat your property, I urge you to jump online and complete a property information form.

“Treatment has proven to be the only way we can eradicate this invasive pest – we must rally to protect our community, outdoor way of life, local agricultural sector, and businesses.”

Scott Charlton, Chief Invasive Species Offcer – Department of Primary Industries (NSW)

“Eradicating fre ants is not easy, but we can do it with eradication treatment and fre ant-safe practices in place in New South Wales – everyone plays an important role,” he said.

“We need to continue working closely with the National Fire Ant Eradication Program and Ballina Shire Council to facilitate thorough treatment and ongoing surveillance in Wardell.

“Our Biosecurity (Fire Ant) Emergency Order remains to prevent this pest from spreading.

“This biosecurity order restricts the movement of materials and machinery that can carry fre ants such as soil, hay, mulch, manure, quarry products, turf, and potted plants.”

RURAL NEWS

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX MARKET REPORT

MARKET REPORT SUMMARY - NRLX AUCTION, MAY 22, 2024

Attendance at NRLX on Wednesday, May 22, saw a modest decline, with a total of 500 head present. The auction featured a notable presence of young cattle, alongside a substantial grouping of cows. Among the young cattle, vealers and weaners predominated, with fewer yearlings available this week. The overall quality of the offerings was varied, with a

GRAFTON

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DONOVAN LIVESTOCK & PROPERTY PH: 02 6643 4411

GRAFTON FAT CATTLE SALE DATE: 21/05/2024 809 Total Head Yarded - 475 Export - 334 Young Cattle

A fair sized yarding came forward this week, export cattle being the majority. Bullocks, cows, and heavy heifers were well represented, along with a generally good quality yarding of young cattle. Bullocks were dearer by 10-20c/kg. Heavy heifers also followed a similar trend.

Cows held frm in price to top at $2.37kg, with most sales between 215-225c/kg. Store cows topped at 218c/kg for good types, however, plain and light condition cows were hard to move.

The gallery of buyers competing on young cattle was limited, however, good quality calves held up okay in value. Plain and badly bred cattle saw limited competition.

SALE HIGHLIGHTS

TENTERFIELD

BROUGHT TO YOU BY HAROLD CURRY PH: 02 6736 1344

TENTERFIELD MARKET REPORT

Steers sell to $1,972.32

Sale Date: 20.05.2024 - Number Yarded: 707

Numbers increased this sale with a yarding of 707 mixed quality cattle. A very small yarding of bullocks topped at 234.2 cents,

WARWICK

LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK & DISTRICT W/E 24/05/2024

Cattle numbers were on a par with the previous week as we moved towards our frst light frost of the year. Sheep and Lamb numbers were on the rise as some areas looked to offoad their older stock before winter sets in. The markets for the beef section were no dearer and just held their own but the big price differential is the fnish to go with the weights. Sheep and Lambs took a tumble across most sectors of their sale with limited restocker interest as well as the main buyers easing their interest. Pork numbers were down but their prices were frm to a shade dearer, with poultry still on the same rates excepting a few specialty types.

Vealer steers av 303.1c/kg topping at 402.2c/kg or $611.16 to $1025.61

Vealer heifers av 239.3c/kg topping at 328.2c/kg or $538.19 to $1011.75

Feeder steers av 284.8c/kg topping at 361.2c/kg or $1060.16 to $1550.00

Feeder heifers av 266c/kg topping at 328.2c/kg or $922.32 to $1291.70

Yearling steers av 283.7c/kg topping at 368.2c/kg or $853.86 to $1408.00

Yearling heifers av 260.3c/kg topping at 334.2c/kg or $765.01 to $1403.64

Steers av 292.6c/kg topping at 371.2c/kg or $1602.00 to $2199.00

Heifers av 249.9c/kg topping at $336.2c/kg or $1191.83 to $1761.28

Manufacturing steers av 232.5c/kg topping at 255.2c/kg or

signifcant proportion of weaner cattle exhibiting signs of the persistent wet weather conditions. Consequently, some producers were compelled to sell their livestock due to these challenges.

Market conditions showed signifcant variability, as not all buyers participated, and quality exerted a discernible infuence on pricing dynamics. Nonetheless, several lots of well-bred weaner steers and heifers were showcased during the sale.

Restocker weaner steers experienced a slight decline in prices, particularly for medium weights, which were 5c to 10c cheaper, while lighter steers saw a more substantial decrease of 30c to 40c.

The price range for most steers was between 268c to 386c, averaging 340c, whereas light restocker steers experienced a price reduction of up to 30c to 40c, selling between 240c to 380c,

GRAFTON FAT CATTLE SALE TUESDAY 21ST MAY 2024

A/c David Carmont sold Brangus Bullocks 276.2c/kg averaged 725.7kg - $2,004.42 p/hd

A/c KR & SS Woodward sold Brahman Cross Bullocks 279.2c/kg averaged 709.1kg - $1,979.78 p/hd

A/c DW & LC Makejev sold Brangus Bullocks 282.2c/kg averaged 695.8kg - $1,963.64 p/hd

A/c Bailey Holdings sold Angus Bullocks 279.2c/kg averaged 642.5kg - $1,793.86 p/hd

A/c Borsato & Caldieraro sold Charolais Cross Cows 236.2c/kg averaged 667.5kg - $1,576.64 p/hd

A/c Geoff Woods sold a Charolais Cow 235.2c/kg weighed 645kg - $1,517.04

A/c AW Moran sold Angus Cows 235.2c/kg averaged 600.6kg$1,412.67 p/hd

A/c AJ, PJ & SM Williamson sold Brahman Cross Cows 235c/ kg averaged 580kg - $1,363.00 p/hd

A/c Double J sold Simmental Cross Cows 231.2c/kg averaged 573kg - $1,324.78 p/hd

A/c MA, DM, CA & KA Johnson sold Brahman Cows 237c/kg averaged 570kg - $1,350.90 p/hd A/c Amanda Verhagen sold Angus Cows 235.2c/kg averaged

whilst a good run of feeder steers sold to 368.2 cents. Another large yarding of cows saw heavy cows sell to 238.2 cents, medium weights to 226.2 cents while light weights topped at 180.2 cents, heifers sold to 305 cents.

Trade cattle were mixed in quality with lightweight Angus weaner steers topping at 416.2 cents, whilst the heifers sold to 300.2 cents, both returning to the paddock. The plain yarding of bulls sold to 230 cents.

TENTERFIELD TOP PRICES

$1729.19 to $2284.04

Cows av 204c/kg topping at 270c/kg or $1115.42 to $1957.50

Bulls av 240.7c/kg topping at 273.2c/kg or $1150.35 to $2364.25

Sale av was 258.2c/kg for a $953.96/head average.

Sheep & Lamb numbers escalated as we moved into the frst frost, a few vendors were offoading some of their older mutton types and the lighter end of their stock. The market was varied with the odd better weight and fnished stock still frm, with the lighter and unfnished end falling.

Lambs topped at $196 to av $120.47 9$15/head down)

Hoggets topped at $130 to av $71.79 ($24/head down)

Ewes topped at $100 to av $62.06 9$8/head down)

Wethers topped at $66 to av $66 ($33/head down)

Rams topped at $69 to av $62.83 ($24/head down)

Lamb rams topped at $140 to av $99.50 ($20/head down)

Sale av for the 2168 head was $103.26 a drop of $6/head week on week.

Sows sold from $140 to $316, Pork sold from $150 to $240, Light pork from $160 to $170, Baconers from $170 to $268, Stores sold from $32 to $183

Quail sets sold to $22.50, Guinea Fowl sets sold to $17.50, Duckling sets sold to $12.50, Chick sets sold to $15, Pullets sold to $32.50, Hens sold to $37.50, Roosters sold to $15

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

The total yarding of 2168 head to the weekly sale was up in numbers from the previous weeks. The yarding was mainly 70% lamb and hogget with the balance mutton types. The yarding had a good run of trade and export weight lambs and mutton with a drawn-out tail with a few light lines. The fresh light lamb and hogget types were frm but as we move into winter the lighter unfnished types are being punished. Lambs topped at $196 to av $120.47 ($15/head down), hoggets topped at $130 to av $71.79

with an average of 311c/kg.

Light restocker weaner heifers also witnessed a decrease in prices by 30c to 40c, whereas heavier heifers were less affected, achieving sales ranging from 148c to 292c/kg.

A standout lot of heavy vealers was acquired by a local butcher for 338c/kg. Grown steers were relatively stable in price, with only a few pens selling at a frm rate, topping at 278c/kg. Similarly, grown heifers attained a peak price of 258c/kg.

In the cow market, prices experienced a slight decline of 10c to 15c, with 2-score medium weights selling between 170c to 193c, while 3-score medium weights averaged 201c. 4-score cows ranged from 193c to 231c/kg.

565.8kg - $1,330.84 p/hd

A/c Daniel Kelly sold a Santa Cross Cow 228.2c/kg weighed 550kg - $1,255.10 A/c AW Moran sold Angus/Charolais Heifers

averaged 530kg - $1,453.26 p/hd A/c Tim & Stephanie Henderson sold Brangus Heifers

averaged 463.8kg - $1,202.04 p/hd A/c BJ Slarke

May

BULLOCKS: PM Carpenter - $1861.89

STEERS: Kelvingrove Pty Ltd - $1972.32

COWS: DR & VJ Bridge - $1505.58

HEIFERS: Darryl McCarthy Building - $1662.84

YEARLINGS: Paratai Pty Ltd - $1508.97

VEALERS: GN Rural - $1017.06

BULLS: Kelvingrove Pty Ltd - $1764.00

NEXT SALE 3rd June 2024, 9:00am Start

($24/head down), Ewes topped at $100 to av $62.06 ($8/head down), Wethers topped at $66 to av $66 ($33/head down), Rams topped at $69 to av $62.83 ($24/head down), Lamb rams topped at $140 to av $99.50 ($20/head down). The total yarding of 2168 head was $6/head down on last week’s sale.

Dayne & Michelle Barrett sold Dorper lambs off feed 44.6kg to Eversons for $150

Pilton Park sold Dorper lambs 51.25kg to Ashtons Butchery for $180

Andy & Helen Ferrier sold Dorper lambs 50kg and 47.3kg to Ashtons Butchery for $171 and $156

Stillwater Past Co sold Dorper lambs 47kg to Ashtons Butchery for $156, 44kg to GR Prime for $138

KJB Drilling sold 49kg Dorper lambs to Leslie Lamb for $170, 46.7kg to GR Prime for $159

Warwick High School sold Texcel lambs 46.6kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $134, Rams to restockers for $65

Giltrow Family sold Dorper x lambs 49.3kg to Eversons for $161, 48.75kg to Warwick Meats for $165, 46.2kg to Eversons for $155, Ewes to Eversons for $85, Ewes to Thomas Foods for $70, Ewes to Eversons for $55 and Rams to GR prime for $55

Gradenfoe Past Co sold Merino wether hoggets 452.6kg to Eversons for $60, 47.5kg to restockers for $60, 51.4kg 4tooth wethers to Eversons for $66

Jack & Sally Sloss sold Merino ewes to Thomas Foods for $53, to Eversons for $45, to Mc Intyre Meats for $43

Woodenbong State High sold Suffolk ewes to Eversons for $69

Hurley & Weiss sold Dorper lambs 48.5kg to GR Prime for $156, 45.4kg to Warwick Meats for $140, Ram lambs 47.5kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $110, Rams to Whites Trading for $46

Bazley family sold Dorset x lambs 40.8kg to GR Prime for $114, Dorper x lambs 38.5kg to Eversons for $90, Hoggets 1stx 50kg to restockers for $96

LIVE SHEEP EXPORT BAN: A CRUSHING BLOW FOR REGIONAL COMMUNITIES, SAYS MARTIN MOSES, CEO MOSES & SON

The government’s decision to implement a ban on live exports by sea by 2028 is poised to unleash a devastating ripple effect that could spell disaster for numerous regional communities. This move threatens to dismantle generations of hard work for many families and exacerbate the challenges already faced by our struggling economy.

This decision demonstrates a profound disconnect between the government and its regional constituents, effectively abandoning us in pursuit of meeting carbon emission targets. We feel like sacrifcial lambs, offered up to

appease the agendas of those far removed from the realities of our industry.

This isn’t about farmers playing the victim; it’s about farmers fnally saying “enough.” We’ve been overlooked and disregarded for too long, and it’s not just our industry that suffers. It’s every Australian farmer who has poured their heart and soul into their livelihoods, often with minimal returns. We continually fnd ourselves having to push back against decisions made by infuential fgures who lack genuine insight into our sector. By succumbing to pressure from activists

and inner-city voters who are disconnected from the highly regulated and scientifcally-backed practices of our industry, we risk dismantling the very backbone of our country. Without a government that collaborates with the agricultural sector, Australia may witness a mass exodus of producers, with many farmers forced to walk away from the land they love. And then what?

While Agriculture Minister Murray Watt insists that their $107 million transition package will provide suffcient assistance, we believe this sets a dangerous precedent for

all farming sectors, not just the sheep industry.

The industry leaders’ walkout from the Croplife Ag Industry breakfast this week signals widespread disapproval of the decision. So why is the government determined to cripple an industry? It’s not just sheep farmers who will bear the brunt; it’s also truck drivers, shearers, and other workers in the supply chain who will be affected. Where is their compensation?

The government is dictating the fate of our industry without consulting us, treating us as pawns in their game. What more must

we do to be heard? Must we line our tractors up outside Parliament House, as our European counterparts have done?

Predictions suggest we will witness alarming drops in sheep numbers and wool production. So why would anyone want to remain part of an industry deliberately being wound down?

The future looks bleak, and the resilience for which we are known is diminishing. Farming may soon become untenable.

It’s time for the government to wake up and acknowledge how much this country relies on farmers for its sustenance, its clothing,

and its economic prosperity.

Rather than criticize and dismantle a sector they clearly understand little about, I extend a personal invitation to any politician to visit our region and meet with our sheep producers and other farmers. Witness our welfare practices frsthand and see the science that underpins our operations. Without farmers, Australia will fall, and the fall will be swift and severe.

Consider this a warning: Australian farmers have had enough.

- Martin Moses, CEO Moses & Son

Australia’s Rabbit Biocontrol Pipeline Strategy

Australia’s Rabbit Biocontrol Pipeline Strategy, unveiled today, marks a pivotal step in combating the nation’s most devastating vertebrate pest – the rabbit. This strategic release aims to drive research and development efforts, offering promising economic, environmental, and social advantages nationwide.

The comprehensive Strategy delineates ten recommendations aimed at enhancing the utilization of existing biocontrol agents while pioneering the development of novel biocontrol tools. By fostering a collaborative national approach to rabbit biocontrol research and innovation, the initiative seeks to uphold minimal rabbit populations and mitigate their detrimental effects, safeguarding the achievements of prior successful biocontrol endeavour’s. Endorsed

by all Australian governments at both State and Federal levels, this Strategy signifes a united front against rabbit infestation.

Andreas Glanznig, Chief Executive of the Centre, emphasized the necessity of a continuous pipeline of biocontrol agents to counter the perpetual “arms race” between rabbits

and viral biocontrol agents. Without such strategic research and development, Australia risks heightened rabbit impacts, which currently impose an annual economic burden exceeding $200 million and threaten 322 nationally listed species.

Dr. Tanja Strive, Senior Principal Research Scientist at CSIRO,

underscored the potential of biocontrol measures outlined in the Strategy to facilitate the recovery of native species and ecological communities adversely affected by rabbits. Developed by a consortium of seasoned scientists from government agencies in New South Wales, South Australia, and Victoria, along with

CSIRO, the Strategy also emphasizes the imperative of integrating biological control with conventional methods and enhancing extension and adoption strategies.

Dr. Strive highlighted the historical effcacy of rabbit biocontrol in Australia, dating back to the release of the myxoma virus in the 1950s, which

has since accrued cumulative benefts surpassing $70 billion to the nation’s livestock and farming sectors. Notably, previous rabbit biocontrol pipeline strategies yielded groundbreaking research and development, culminating in the national release of Australia’s frst rabbit biocontrol agent in two decades – RHDV1 K5 – in 2017 through the Centre.

Impacts of Rabbits:

• Compete with native wildlife for food and shelter, leading to land degradation.

• Target native tree and shrub seedlings, impeding their regeneration.

• Diminish crop and pasture yields and facilitate the spread of weeds.

• Pose threats to periurban and urban areas by damaging various sites and landscapes.

• Act as hosts to animal and human parasites and diseases.

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

THE TEMPEST

Now in it’s 9th year the Annual Midwinter Shakespeare Banquet Dinner event returns with a brand new production of Shakespeare’s fnal masterpiece ‘The Tempest’. Performed by the multi award winning Shepherd’s Purse Theatre Company, this transcendent tale of forgiveness is for the ages.

In a world of magic and mystery, a powerful sorcerer named Prospero fnds himself exiled to a remote island with his daughter Miranda, after his dukedom is usurped by his treacherous brother Antonio. Prospero, a master

of the mystical arts, commands the spirits of the island, including the mischievous Ariel

and the savage Caliban. When a ship carrying Antonio and his allies is caught in a tempest

conjured by Prospero, the sorcerer sees an opportunity for revenge. As the shipwrecked

party is scattered across the enchanted island, a tale of retribution, forgiveness and the

power of love unfolds. With a touch of comedy and a stunning musical score by Emmy winner Paul Englishby, Prospero must choose between.

EVENT DETAILS:

• Dates: Thursday 18

July 2024 - Saturday 20

July 2024

• Where: Flutterbies Cottage Cafe, 23 Coolman Street, Street, Tyalgum

• Cost: $125.00

• 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 Invincible was the final studio album by which famous artist?

(a) Whitney Houston (b) David Bowie (c) Amy Winehouse (d) Michael Jackson

2 What type of cake is a traditional Sachertorte?

(a) Fruit (b) Banana (c) Chocolate (d) Carrot

3 In economics, negative consequences arising from large increases in a country’s income are referred to as what?

(a) Dutch disease

(b) Irish disease (c) Swiss disease (d) French disease

4 The most populous city of which country is situated on the coast of the Sea of Marmara?

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

5 Jon Arbuckle is a character from which popular comic strip?

(a) Peanuts

(b) Li’l Abner

(c) Garfield (d) Hägar the Horrible

6 In 2019, which TV program won the Logie Award for Most Popular Entertainment Program?

(a) Gruen

(b) Gogglebox Australia (c) Hard Quiz (d) The Voice

PUZZLES

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 AUGER

(a) A soothsayer

(b) A carpenter’s boring tool

(c) A northern constellation

2 BURGEE

(a) A swallow-tailed flag or pennant

(b) A sailor’s dish of boiled oatmeal

(c) A light 16th century helmet with cheek pieces

3 FULMINOUS

(a) Dusky

(b) Pertaining to thunder and lightning

(c) Serving as foundation

4 QWERTY

(a) The number of times one quantity is contained in another

(b) A standard arrangement of keys on a typewriter keyboard

(c) A stone hand-mill

5 RUMINATE

(a) To crush out of shape

(b) To inform against

(c) To chew the cud

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY SOCCER

TEN, 7.30pm

The Matildas have well and truly captured the nation’s hearts. Coming o the back of 12 sold-out matches and with the Olympics just around the corner, this highly anticipated friendly against China from Adelaide Oval is set to get the adrenaline pumping for soccer fans new and old. The Matildas will be looking to assert their dominance in this warm-up against the reigning AFC Women’s Asian Cup champions as they prepare for their mission to secure their rst Olympic gold medal. While a few injuries plague the team, stars such as Mary Fowler and Ellie Carpenter, along with hometown hero Charli Grant (pictured), will be raring to impress in this penultimate clash before jetting to France.

FRIDAY, May 31

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

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. Sophie Thomson visits a “pawsome” garden. Costa Georgiadis walks a tranquil nature trail.

8.30 Silent Witness. (Mav) Nikki takes matters into her own hands.

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

10.10 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

10.40 Blak Ball. (MA15+l, R)

11.10 ABC Late News.

11.25 Grand Designs. (R)

12.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)

1.05 We Hunt Together. (Madlv, R)

1.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

SATURDAY

SPIDER

- MAN: NO WAY HOME

SEVEN, 7.30pm

The ultimate multiverse superhero movie with more surprise appearances than you can poke a stick at, this third solo outing for Tom Holland as the webslinging arachnid hero packs enough plot and character for ve lms into its long run time. Struggling in the aftermath of his true identity knowledge, Peter Parker pictured) asks for the of Doctor Strange Cumberbatch) to reverse it. the solution brings more problems as many familiar faces (some friendly, others not) from Spidey icks of the past appear. Holland is as appealing as ever and there’s a bounty of metahumour.

MONDAY THE STREETS HONG KONG

SBS FOOD, 7.30pm

Chef and author adventures in the foodie mecca and melting pot of Hong Kong. In what he describes as a

“life-changing trip”, The Chef’s Line host is on a passionate mission learning about the history and culture of this city’s unique street foods which are becoming “a dying art”. From handmade sh balls tarts, wonton noodles, tofu and dim sum, Hong discovers the traditions, recipes and stories behind tasty delicacies. Thankfully, this fun, appetizing foray isn’t purely informative; Hong also whips up these dishes step-by-step so that viewers so they can create these delectable treasures at home.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Abandoned Railways From Above. 8.30 Secrets Of The Lost Liners: Costa Concordia. (PGa) Delves into the ill-fated Costa Concordia

9.20 Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters: Rogue Waves. (R)

10.10 SBS World News Late.

10.40 World On Fire. (Malv)

11.45 Catch And Release. (MA15+l, R)

3.05 Fantastical Factory Of Curious Craft. (PG, R)

4.00 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 6.50 Kiri And Lou. 6.55 Supertato. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 MOVIE: Frequency. (2000, MA15+) 10.25 MOVIE: The Disaster Artist. (2017, M) 12.05am Would I Lie To You? 1.05 QI. 1.40 ABC News Update. 1.45 Close. 5.00 Hoopla. 5.15 Ready, Jet, Go! 5.25 Alva’s World. 5.40 Late Programs. ABC TV PLUS (22)

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs catches up with Mark Olive, Australia’s most acclaimed Indigenous chef. Graham Ross takes a look at liliums. Juliet Love shows how to avoid tangling strings.

8.30 To Be Advised.

12.40 Australia’s Amazing Homes: Vintage Twist. (PG, R) Johanna Griggs and Pete Colquhoun visit Australia’s most stylish and breathtaking homes.

2.00 Home Shopping.

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

5.00 NBC Today. International news including interviews with people from the world of business, politics, media and sports.

7TWO (62)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 13. Newcastle Knights v Canterbury Bulldogs.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Newcastle Knights versus Canterbury Bulldogs match, with news and analysis.

10.40 MOVIE: Into The Blue. (2005, Mdlv, R) A group of divers nds illegal cargo. Paul Walker, Jessica Alba.

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

1.50 Pointless. (PG, R)

2.45 Explore: Hamilton Gardens. (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)

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

6.30 The Project. Rove McManus, Georgie Tunny, Michael Hing and Monty Dimond to take a look at the day’s news. 7.30 Soccer. Women’s International Friendly. Game 1. Australia v China PR. From Adelaide Oval. 10.30 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.55 The Project. (R) Rove McManus, Georgie Tunny, Michael Hing and Monty Dimond to take a look at the day’s news. 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 It’s Suppertime! Noon WorldWatch. 12.25 Most Expensivest. 1.20 Curious Australia. 1.50 Our Stories: Connecting With Country. 2.20 Bananas. 2.25 Over The Black Dot. 3.15 WorldWatch. 5.15 Tattoo Age. 5.45 Building The Ultimate. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Hoarders. 9.25 The Orville. 1.15am QAnon: The Search For Q. 2.10 Mental Illness On Death Row. 3.05 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Morning Programs. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Harry’s

Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 The Yorkshire Steam Railway: All Aboard. 8.30 Heathrow. 9.00 Soccer. Friendly. AC Milan v AS Roma. 11.00 Late Programs.

9GO! (83) 6am Three Summers. Continued. (2019, PG, Portuguese) 6.35 Last Chance Harvey. (2008, PG) 8.15 The Falcons. (2018, PG, Icelandic) 10.10 Dating Amber. (2020, M) 11.50 Then Came You. (2020, M) 1.40pm A Raisin In The Sun. (1961, PG) 4.00 Belle And Sebastian 3. (2017, PG, French) 5.40 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 7.30 The Longest Week. (2014, M) 9.05 Finding Your Feet. (2017, PG) 11.10 On Chesil Beach. (2017, M) 1.15am Man Up. (2015, M) 2.50 Late Programs.

6am Children’s Programs.

Noon Manifest. 1.00 Raymond. 2.00 Bewitched. 2.30 Full House. 3.00 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 MOVIE: Tom & Jerry. (2021) 7.30 MOVIE: Finding Dory. (2016) 9.30 MOVIE: Valentine’s Day. (2010, M) Midnight MOVIE: Vampires Suck. (2010, M) 1.35 Vanderpump Rules. 2.30

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

F R H

O U M

S

A E

Today’s target: 14 words average 20 words good

28+ 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

When it comes to managing a complicated financial matter, Uranus encourages you to be creative and have a flexible plan. And Mercury urges you to look at a current problem in a less judgmental and more rational way. The situation is in the process of transforming in an organic fashion. Your ruler, Mars, is currently in Aries (until June 9) so avoid rushing things and trying to force change. Do your best to be proactive and patient; dynamic and diplomatic.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

This week curious Mercury and innovative Uranus link up in your sign. So it’s time to speed up your thinking, explore innovative ideas, discuss alternative points of view and try new approaches. Keep what’s working in your life – but throw out things that aren’t working and don’t be afraid to break a few stodgy old rules. Inspiration for the week is from movie icon (and birthday great) Marilyn Monroe: “If I’d observed all the rules, I’d never have got anywhere.”

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

As the Sun makes its annual transit through doppelganger Gemini (sign of the double-trouble Twins) prepare for a stop-start kind of week! Frantically go-go-go one day (Mercury/Uranus) and frustratingly slow the next (Mercury/Saturn). So you need to be nimble, adaptable and stoical. Plus – with Mercury and Uranus sometimes snoozing in your solitude zone – take the time to slow down and reassess where you are going … and where you’ve been.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

You’re keen to retreat into your cozy Crab cave as the Sun, Venus and Jupiter all transit through your contemplation zone. So solo activities like yoga, meditation, reading and journal writing are favoured this week. But – if you stumble and make a mistake – don’t let negative self-talk drag you down. Keep going! Be inspired by birthday great Kylie Minogue (who turns 56 on Tuesday): “I didn’t want to fizzle out. I had to keep going, like a little Shetland pony.”

Fiery Mars activates your travel zone, so a heavenly holiday is likely sometime soon. But it won’t happen if you’re a lackadaisical Leo! Take action ASAP via a spontaneous booking (if you’ve got the money) or a smart savings plan (if you’re currently cash-strapped). The Sun, Venus and Jupiter also urge you to take a good long look at your hopes and wishes for the future. Do they need a shake-up? Make sure your dreams are creative, flexible and fun.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

This week Mercury (your power planet) connects with Saturn and Uranus, so concentration and curiosity will take you far. The focus is also on work as the Sun, Venus and Jupiter all jump through your professional zone. But don’t overdo it, Virgo … and don’t make the mistake of neglecting family and close friends. As movie star (and birthday great) Marilyn Monroe observed: “A career is wonderful, but you can’t curl up with it on a cold night.”

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Saturn (in your job zone) links up with Mercury so it’s a good time to study, learn, apply yourself and work hard. Motto for the week comes from Kylie Minogue (who turns 56 on Tuesday): “There’s no shortcut to learning a craft; you just have to put the years in.” International adventures and interstate escapades are calling as the Sun, Venus and Jupiter activate your travel zone. Be patient and make it a priority to plan (and save for) a dream holiday later in the year.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You currently have four planets (Mercury, Uranus, Saturn and Neptune) transiting through your relationship zone. So other people could perplex you with their confusing behaviour. Avoid being a cynical Scorpio who sabotages partnerships. Nurture and cherish your close connections. If you’re unhappily single, keep pursuing your dream of finding your soulmate. Be inspired by birthday great Kylie Minogue: “I’m sure that love exists. Even infinite, eternal love.”

Avoid jumping to conclusions, making hasty assumptions and passing on unsubstantiated information. Slow down, Sagittarius! The Sun, Venus and Jupiter are jumping through your partnership zone. So creative, diplomatic communication (and a spirit of generosity) will help improve relations with family and friends, as you get your message out loud and clear. Friday is fabulous for lightbulb moments as you discuss innovative ideas and think outside the box.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

The week starts well with the positive link between mind planet Mercury and your ruler Saturn. Which encourages clear thinking, disciplined work, strategic planning, goal-setting and problem-solving for clever Capricorns. And then Friday’s stars favour innovative ideas, unusual points of view and long-term friendships. As movie star Marlene Dietrich (a fellow Capricorn) observed: “It’s the friends you can call up at four am that matter.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Prepare for a hectic week when you overdo just about everything. Under the influence of the Mercury/Uranus hookup, you’re inclined to be enthusiastic and exhausting, restless and rebellious, questioning and quirky. You’ll certainly be hard to ignore as you ruffle a few feathers with your impulsive ideas and spontaneous comments. But jumping to conclusions could land you in hot water – especially when it comes to a family member or a close friend.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You won’t feel particularly energetic or motivated, as Saturn drains the gas out of your tank. Avoid the temptation to get carried away and make unrealistic promises. It will be very easy to over-extend yourself and find you’ve bitten off more than you can comfortably chew! Use the prevailing astro-winds wisely as you re-calibrate your expectations, especially when it comes to domestic matters and family members. Creative collaboration will take you far.

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

FILM: GRAVEL ROAD SCREENING, Q&A AND LIVE PERFORMANCES

Gravel Road is the story of Jay Minning, singer-songwriter of the most remote rock band in the world, the Desert Stars.

His four-piece band are traditional land owners of Spinifex Country, in the Great Victoria Desert, Western Australia — home of the last nomads.

From their home in remote Tjuntjuntjara, we follow Minning and his band’s frst-ever tour as they rock their way across the Western Desert with songs of

hunter-gatherer life. Their elders survived the British atomic testing (at the infamous Maralinga site) and the band’s profound connection to culture spans back 2,000 generations.

With customary Spinifex reciprocity, Minning shares the journey with East-Coast friends, a band named The Re-mains, providing a rare glimpse into his country, his culture, his music and his extraordinary everyday life.

120 mins, Australia Includes Q&A and Live performances by Desert Stars & The Re-Mains

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: 1st of June at 5pm

• Where: Star Court Theatre, Lismore

• Price: From $25

• Tickets: Via the QR code.

THE ANIMALS: THE FAREWELL TOUR: THE FINAL ENCORE

The Animals announce after their 60th Anniversary “The Farewell Tour: Greatest Hits” – The band’s Final Tour of Australia was such a huge success at Twin Towns, they feel they need to return for The Farewell Tour: The Final Encore!

The Animals were “one of the most important bands” in the British Invasion.

The Beatles and Rolling Stones were the headliners, whilst The Animals were the backbone of blues!

The Animals’ impact and infuence is undeniable. They created some of the most iconic songs in popular music history including – We’ve Gotta Get Out Of This Place, The House of The Rising Sun, Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood, It’s My Life, Don’t Bring Me Down and Boom Boom and more all of which will be performed on this Greatest Hits Final Tour.

“The Animals are Original Member John

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: 7th of June at 8pm

• Where: Twin Towns Club and Resort

• Price: From $79

• Tickets: Available via QR code.

LENNOX HEAD - RIVERTREE FILM SCREENING

FREE COMMUNITY EVENT - EVERYONE IS WELCOME Patagonia & RIVERTREE Film

Inc invites you to a screening of the documentary feature flm RIVERTREE. A story that celebrates

the mighty Clarence River (Biirrinba, Boorimbah). An adventure of community, connection and kin

in the shadow of the mountains, and the race to mine her rare minerals buried in the mountains.

Directed by Matty

Hannon and Narrated by Aunty Pat Lenore, Hayley Talbot & Daniel Ross.

EVENT DETAILS

• When: May 30, 2024 at 6:30pm

• Where: Lennox Head Cultural Centre

• Price: Free

SEAFIRE: INTERNATIONAL FIREWORKS COMPETITION

SeaFire, the Gold Coast’s very own international freworks competition, is returning to the shores of Surfers Paradise Beach! Italy and the United Kingdom, two of the world’s best pyrotechnic teams, will compete for the coveted title at 6pm and 7pm respectively. The winner will be

crowned at 7:45pm.

Australia’s leading pyrotechnic team, Skylighter, will close the night with a sensational Aussie freworks fnale at 8pm.

SeaFire is a free familyfriendly event. Make a weekend of it with a staycation or have an early dinner at one of the

many mouth-watering restaurants in Surfers Paradise.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday, 01 June 2024 | 06:00 PM09:00 PM

• Where: Surfers

Paradise Beach

• Cost: Free

Steel alongside Danny Handley, Bobby Ruiz and Barney “Boogie” Williams”

New RAS Youth Initiative, RAS AgriLink, to Enhance Connectivity in Agriculture

Fostering unity, inspiration, and connectivity among young individuals in agriculture lies at the core of the newly launched youth initiative, RAS AgriLink, by the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS).

This initiative aims to establish a central platform where young people in agriculture can connect with likeminded peers and access essential resources.

At the heart of the RAS AgriLink Community is a dedicated Facebook group, serving as a

hub for tomorrow’s agricultural leaders to engage in discussions, share industry-related ideas and concerns, and showcase their agricultural endeavors, including products, services, and events.

Susan Wakeford, Chair for the Youth Affairs Committee, highlighted that the idea for RAS AgriLink stemmed from feedback received during networking events, emphasizing the need for a centralized space to facilitate connections among young individuals in agriculture and

provide clarity on industry events and programs.

RAS AgriLink aims to provide a supportive environment where young farmers, industry professionals, and students can exchange experiences, seek advice, and network with others who share their passion for agriculture. This initiative aligns with RAS’s mission to empower the next generation in agriculture by offering opportunities for skill development, knowledge expansion, and networking.

The launch of RAS AgriLink coincides with the Young Farmer Business Program Conference, held in Armidale, where an RAS AgriLink representative will be present. Grace Collins, recently announced as the RAS Rural Achiever for 2024, will also participate as a guest speaker on this year’s Young Farmer Panel Discussion.

The Young Farmer Business Program Conference, organized by the Department of Primary Industries, features innovative farm

tours, presentations, and networking opportunities aimed at equipping young farmers with the necessary tools to enhance their business ventures.

For more information about the RAS AgriLink initiative or to promote youthfocused agricultural events, visit AgriLink (rasnsw.com.au).

Details about the upcoming Young Farmer Business Program Conference can be found at Young Farmer (nsw.gov.au).

Farmers Decry Painful Budget: “Keep Your Money”

In a scathing response to the Federal Budget, farmers across Australia have voiced deep disappointment, accusing the government of inficting further harm on the agriculture sector. National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) President David Jochinke condemned the budget’s allocation of signifcant funding towards ending the live sheep trade, labelling it as a betrayal to farmers. Jochinke expressed dismay that while the budget highlighted spending for the Future Drought Fund, only a fraction of it represented new funding. He criticized the government’s prioritization of

appeasing activists over supporting farmers, asserting that the trade shutdown would exacerbate the challenges already faced by the agricultural community.

The announcement regarding funding for emission reduction efforts in agriculture was cautiously welcomed by the NFF, pending further details. Jochinke underscored the importance of clarity and engagement in implementing measures to address climate change in the sector.

While the budget’s investment in regional infrastructure, particularly road improvements, was acknowledged

positively, Jochinke called for transparency regarding funding for water buybacks in the Murray Darling Basin. He emphasized the need for clear communication to communities affected by such decisions.

The budget’s cuts to programs supporting careers in agriculture, including the Harvest Trail Services and AgCAREERSTART, were met with disappointment. Jochinke highlighted the signifcance of these programs in addressing workforce shortages and connecting young people with opportunities in farming. Regarding renewable energy, while some provisions were deemed

positive, such as funding for the Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner, Jochinke stressed the need for enforceable codes to protect farmers and regional communities. Despite some welcomed announcements in the budget, such as the extension of the instant asset write-off and funding boosts for trade and farm safety initiatives, Jochinke reiterated farmers’ dissatisfaction with the overall direction of the budget, urging the government to reconsider its priorities and better support the agricultural sector.

The NFF awaits more detail on the $63.8

NFF Expresses Gratitude to Senators for Opposing Biosecurity

Levy

The National Farmers’ Federation extends its gratitude to the Senators who have championed the cause of farmers in Parliament by voicing their opposition to the proposed Biosecurity Protection Levy.

Senator Peter WishWilson of Tasmania made a formal announcement today, declaring The Greens’ opposition to the levy, citing rushed and inadequate consultation processes.

Senator Wish-Wilson stated, “The Bill the government introduced to specifcally tax farmers in this regard is poor policy in both principle and design and should be rejected.”

The NFF has confrmed that The Greens, Coalition, One Nation, as well as Senators David Pocock, Jacqui Lambie, Tammy Tyrell, and Ralph Babet, stand in opposition to the tax—a stance applauded by NFF Chief Executive Tony Mahar.

“On behalf of Australian agriculture, thank you for demonstrating common sense. This was a fawed policy with numerous shortcomings,” Mr. Mahar expressed.

million over a decade to support initial emission reduction efforts in the agriculture and land sectors. They also noted the $107 million allocated to cancel the live sheep trade and expressed concern over the impact on farmers and the supply chain. Additionally, they criticized cuts to programs supporting careers in agriculture and called for more transparency regarding water buybacks in the Murray Darling Basin. Despite some positive aspects of the budget, the NFF remains dissatisfed with the overall direction, urging the government to prioritize the needs of the agricultural sector.

“We have vehemently advocated to #ScraptheTax, and now we urge the Government to fnally abandon it and seek a better approach to ensure Australia’s biosecurity system remains world-class,” added Mr. Mahar.

The NFF has called upon the Government to withdraw the legislation and collaborate with farmers and stakeholders to develop a policy that garners widespread support.

“It is imperative now for the Government to discard this policy and engage with the agriculture industry to safeguard Australia from pests and diseases, benefting both farmers and all Australians,” Mr. Mahar concluded.

By Helen Trustum

Nestled in the hills 10 kilometers south of Lismore lies Wyrallah. It was once a thriving place when it boasted a mill, brickworks, four hotels, two wine shops, four butcher shops, churches and a school as well as other stores and public buildings.

One of the frst sawmills on the Richmond River was erected in the early

1860’s at Wyrallah on what was known as the North Arm. In 1862 Mr William Lane and son Albert landed from the schooner “Josephine” and erected a slab hut.

Shortly after the paddle boat “Rainbow” arrived from Port Stephens with the machinery for the owner James and Captain Robert Beckenridge. Within a year the mill was operating. Beckenridge

Brothers had their teams of bullocks, trucks, drays, horses and cattle were bought overland from Port Stephens, Via Grafton and the Tablelands.

Referring to the ferry, Gundurimba Shire records make note of it functioning in 1885.

The ferryman’s cottage beside the Wilsons River was built about the same time the ferry started operating on the

1st September 1885.

The ferry carried foot passengers, animals, horses, gigs and drays, with the ferry wound across the river by hand.

When the ferry sank in the 1890 food, it was sent to Ballina for repairs. Foot passengers and horseman were carried by boat and the horses swam the river.

The ferrymen operated the Wyrallah ferry, in 24 hour shifts. These

men were: Bill George, Fred West Snr., James Edward Pearce, Charles Tonkin, Mr Nipperess, Herb and Ray Whitney. (only names I have found out).

The last ferry operator before the bridge was built in 1968 was Mr Charles Tonkin. The new Wyrallah Bridge was offcially opened by the Honourable Sir Davis Hughes, Minister for Public Works on

31st August 1968.

The Wyrallah Ferry was then moved to Swan Bay and the Ferrymans House was moved just a few hundred metres to the rear of the Wyrallah Bush Fire Brigade headquarters. Wyrallah residents were very happy with their new bridge.

MEMORIES

Dawn Coles, (nee Randle): was reared at

Fred West under new bridge at Wyrallah - 1968

Fred West on Wyrallah Ferry

By Helen Trustum

Ferros Lane, Ruthven in a family of 13. The children loved the river and every chance they had the Randle children would be swimming in the river. That is where they learnt to swim with their father getting them to jump into the water while they were tied on to a long rope.

Dawn remembers the Gallagher Family often fshing at night. Travelling to the school

at Wyrallah the children had to cross the river by boat. Dawn also rode her pony to school where she would cross the ferry. This was in the early 1950’s.

Marie Essery, (nee West): lived with her parents, Fred and Elsie West on Tuckean Island. When it came for her to attend school at Wyrallah she was boarded at Ray and Mavis Prentice’s home

near the Wyrallah ferry.

Marie is the Grand Daughter of the Ferry Master at Wyrallah, Fred West Snr. and his wife Lavina, who lived in the Ferrymans cottage near the ferry. Fred operated the ferry for many years.

Jim Pearce: His Grandfather James Edward Pearce was the ferryman at Wyrallah. Jim spent many great weekends sitting on

the side gate fshing for garfsh. This would have been between 1953 and 1955.

David Barnsley: As a child, David used to go on the run delivering bread for McLeish’s Bakery over the ferry and back to town. One day the river was swollen with food water. He found it very scary as he had to hand wind the ferry over and with all the

logs and debris coming downstream at him, he said the responsibility was way beyond his paygrade $0.

Fred Hoskins: Fred still lives at Wyrallah and at 92 years of age, remembers when Bill George retired from operating the Wyrallah Ferry and went to live in Sydney. Every time he heard the bell ringing at the railway station, he would say “COMING”.

Fred said it took a long time to get that out of his mind. As that was the way of telling the Ferry Crew, they were on the other side waiting for the ferry. Bill was Ferrymaster at Wyrallah during the 1920’s.

Ref: Northern Star, Fred Hoskins Wyrallah, May Essery Mullumbimby, and Dawn Coles Lismore.

Ferryman’s Cottage near the Wyrallah Ferry

Wyrallah Ferry - 1962

Randle Children off to school by crossing river in the boat

Glen Innes Severn Council Invites Community Feedback on Draft 2024-25 Operational Plan and Budget

Glen Innes Severn Council is seeking community input on its Draft 2024-25 Operational Plan and Budget, which details the proposed initiatives and fnancial allocations for the upcoming fnancial year. The public exhibition period for the draft documents will continue until Thursday, 13 June 2024.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE: Review the Documents:

• Online: Have Your Say

• In Person:

o Council’s Town Hall Customer Service Offce, 265 Grey Street, Glen Innes

o Council’s Church Street Customer Service Offce, 136 Church Street, Glen Innes

o Glen Innes Severn Public & TAFE Library,

71 Grey Street, Glen Innes

o Village Post Offces in Emmaville, Deepwater, and Glencoe Submit Feedback:

• Online: Through the Council’s Have Your Say page.

• Email: Send to council@gisc.nsw.gov. au.

• Mail: Address to The General Manager, Glen Innes Severn Council, PO Box 61, Glen Innes NSW 2370.

• In Person: Drop submissions at Council’s Customer Service Centres in Grey Street or Church Street. The deadline for all submissions is 4.30 PM on Friday, 14 June 2024.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE DRAFT OPERATIONAL PLAN:

• Regional Roads and Transport: Improvement

and maintenance of vital transportation routes.

• CCTV Installations: A multi-year project to enhance security across the region.

• Urban Landscaping: Beautifcation and green space projects within urban areas.

• Drainage and Water Network Upgrades: Enhancing infrastructure for better water

management.

• Parks and Recreation Upgrades: Enhancements to local parks and recreational facilities.

• ANZAC Park Playground: Development of new play areas for children. This Operational Plan and Budget aims to conclude the current Council’s term with

a focus on fnalizing ongoing programs and commitments. It serves as a guiding document for delivering essential services such as roads, parks, ranger services, development services, waste and recycling, sport and recreational facilities, community and economic development, and cultural exhibitions and events.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:

Community members are strongly encouraged to review the draft documents and provide their feedback during the public exhibition period. All feedback will be carefully considered by the Council before the fnalization and adoption of the 2024-25 Operational Plan and Budget in June 2024.

For more information or to access the draft

documents, please visit Have Your Say.

Contact Information:

• Email: council@gisc. nsw.gov.au

• Mail: The General Manager, Glen Innes Severn Council, PO Box 61, Glen Innes NSW 2370

• In Person: Council’s Customer Service Centres at 265 Grey Street and 136 Church Street, Glen Innes Your participation is crucial in shaping the future of our community. Please take the time to review the draft Operational Plan and Budget and share your insights.

Businesses urged to tap into NSW Regional Development package

LISMORE MP Janelle Saffin is urging eligible businesses to tap into a $35-million package of NSW Government initiatives funded under the $350-million NSW Regional Development Trust.

Ms Saffin said two initiatives immediately relevant to the Northern Rivers and Northern Tablelands regions were $5 million in low interest loans to eligible small and medium businesses to encourage economic growth and employment, and a further $5 million to empower Aboriginal businesses.

Two initiatives which could potentially benefit our regions in the longer term were $15 million to improve regional and remote airstrips and a $10-million Workforce Activation Package to establish, expand or upgrade childcare initially in Bourke, Broken Hill and Cobar, Ms Saffin said.

All four initiatives have been guided by the Regional Development

Advisory Council and informed by several roundtables with rural communities hosted by Minister for Regional New South Wales Tara Moriarty, across the state.

THE $35-MILLION PACKAGE INCLUDES:

$5 million to encourage economic growth and employment in regional NSW

• $5 million will be invested to provide low interest loans to eligible small and medium businesses to encourage economic growth and employment in regional NSW.

• From last Friday, 17 May 2024, food and beverage manufacturing small and medium businesses will be able to apply for loans between $100,0000 and $1,000,000 with a 2.5 per cent fixed interest for the life of the loan, to allow them to invest in new technologies and equipment that increases efficiency and productivity.

• NSW is home to more than 30 per cent of the nation’s small and medium enterprises. However, the RBA has highlighted that currently small businesses are finding it difficult to access finance from traditional lenders with approval times, underwriting security requirements and interest rates cited as key concerns.

• This investment from the NSW Government has been developed to make it faster and easier for regional small businesses to thrive.

$5 million to empower Aboriginal businesses

• The Aboriginal Economic Development Package will support Aboriginal businesses and organisations to identify and execute commercial opportunities, leading to improved economic and employment outcomes.

• The funding will assist eligible Aboriginal organisations and businesses to deliver

projects that enable improved economic and employment outcomes, for example upgrades to community-controlled facilities or the expansion of native food operations.

• Aboriginal projects are currently under consideration, with commencement of the pilot program to happen over the coming months. Details coming soon. $15 million to improve rural and remote airstrips

• Effective remote and Western NSW airstrips that are accessible all year round will increase economic development opportunities, plus the delivery of health care and emergency services to reach communities that would otherwise be required to travel long distances to access similar services.

• The New South Wales Government has commenced an audit of rural and remote airstrips across 20 local government areas in Western NSW and

will develop a rollout schedule based on priority and need, that will be completed by September this year.

• Following this, the NSW Government will commence the upgrades of airstrip and aerodrome related infrastructure and equipment improvements.

• This investment will improve rural and remote communities’ access to critical services, businesses, essential workers and supplies, particularly in the event of an emergency or natural disaster.

$10 million Western NSW Workforce Activation Package to establish, expand or upgrade NSW childcare

1. The Western NSW Workforce Activation Package will provide $10 million to establish, expand or upgrade early childhood and education care across three initial local government areas of Bourke, Broken Hill and Cobar.

2. This initiative is

designed to increase the availability of long day care in regional areas.

3. Co-designed with the early childhood sector, this is an innovative approach to strengthening the workforce in remote communities by addressing one of the barrier’s faced by parents looking to return to work in areas where there is little or no early childcare available.

4. Successful applicants must demonstrate that funded activities will increase their ability to offer additional childcare places.

Further investments in these projects will be considered following an initial review of their implementation. For more information, see the QR code.

US giant Hard Rock flatly denies a takeover for The Star

Hard Rock International has unequivocally denied any involvement in a takeover bid for The Star Entertainment Group (ASX: SGR). The US-based casino and hospitality giant released an official statement overnight refuting claims that it is part of a consortium aiming to acquire the Australian casino operator.

The denial came in response to a statement from The Star, which suggested that Hard Rock was part of a group exploring a “potential transaction” with the company.

“Hard Rock International wants to clarify that it is not engaged in, nor has it authorized, any discussions, activities, or negotiations related to a proposed bid for The Star,” the company stated. “Furthermore, Hard Rock International has not permitted the use of its brand in any

proposed bid for The Star by any third party.”

This rebuttal has created confusion, as The Star’s previous statement identified Hard Rock Hotels & Resorts (Pacific) as part of the consortium, implying a connection to Hard Rock.

The US company strongly disputed this claim, even suggesting potential misuse of its brand. “Our brand is built on a legacy of integrity, excellence, and a commitment to our guests, partners, and team members worldwide,” Hard

Rock stated. “Any unauthorized use of the Hard Rock name in business dealings is taken very seriously. We are currently investigating this matter and will take all necessary legal actions to protect our brand and reputation.”

Hard Rock urged stakeholders and the public to rely solely on official communications from Hard Rock International for accurate information regarding its business activities and partnerships.

The Star responded briefly to Hard Rock’s

statement but did not provide further clarification. The company reiterated that it had not received any proposal directly from Hard Rock International.

“The Star confirms that it has not engaged in substantive discussions with the consortium regarding its proposal,” The Star stated. The company acknowledged Hard Rock International’s statement, which clarified its non-involvement in any discussions or negotiations related to a proposal for The Star.

The Star’s initial statement followed media speculation about a potential takeover or recapitalization plan amid a second Bell inquiry into the company’s suitability to hold a casino license in NSW. The news of a possible transaction led to a 20% increase in The Star’s share price, closing at 54 cents.

Australia may not be the frst place that springs to mind when you think of skiing. However, nestled within its mountainous regions are some of the best ski resorts that offer a snowy paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. With winter approaching, there’s no better time to be getting ready for a winter holiday to the snow. Here’s a closer look at the top ski destinations in Australia, each providing unique experiences for visitors of all ages and skill levels.

THREDBO

Located in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, Thredbo is one of Australia’s most iconic ski resorts. It boasts the country’s longest ski runs and a vibrant village atmosphere. Thredbo is perfect for those seeking a blend of skiing and après-ski activities. The resort offers a variety of runs catering to beginners and advanced skiers alike. In addition to skiing, Thredbo’s village is flled with restaurants, bars, and shops, providing plenty of entertainment off the slopes. For the adventurous, the Merritts Gondola offers stunning views of the surrounding snow-covered landscape.

PERISHER

As the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, Perisher is a must-visit for any ski enthusiast. Spread across seven peaks in the Kosciuszko

National Park, Perisher provides an extensive range of terrain suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The resort is divided into four main areas: Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Blue Cow, and Guthega, each with its unique charm and offerings. Perisher’s extensive snowmaking facilities ensure excellent skiing conditions throughout the season, and its après-ski scene, including various dining and entertainment options, makes it a popular choice for both families and young adults.

FALLS CREEK

Falls Creek, located in Victoria’s Alpine National Park, is known for its picturesque village and extensive skiable terrain. It is the largest ski resort in Victoria, offering a European-style village where accommodation, dining, and après-ski activities are all within walking distance.

Falls Creek is especially family-friendly, with a variety of activities such as snow tubing, tobogganing, and night skiing. The resort also caters to crosscountry skiing enthusiasts, with over 65 kilometres of groomed trails. Falls Creek’s ski-in, ski-out accommodation ensures that visitors can maximise their time on the slopes.

MOUNT HOTHAM

Mount Hotham, also in Victoria, is famed for its challenging terrain and stunning views. Known as the ‘powder capital’ of Australia, Mount Hotham offers some of the best off-piste skiing in the country. The resort’s unique village, located at the top of the mountain, provides breathtaking vistas and a convenient base for ski-in, ski-out access. Mount Hotham is ideal for advanced skiers and snowboarders looking for a more

thrilling experience. Off the slopes, the resort offers a range of dining options and cozy lodges, perfect for unwinding after a day of intense skiing.

MOUNT BULLER

Mount Buller, situated in Victoria’s High Country, is one of the most accessible ski resorts from Melbourne, making it a popular weekend getaway. The resort features a wide variety of runs, suitable for beginners to advanced skiers. Mount Buller’s village offers a bustling atmosphere with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. The resort is also known for its lively events calendar, featuring everything from ski races to music festivals. Families will appreciate the dedicated kids’ programs and snow play areas, ensuring that even the youngest visitors have a memorable experience.

Australia’s ski resorts offer a diverse range of experiences, from the extensive terrains of Perisher to the charming village of Falls Creek and the thrilling slopes of Mount Hotham. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a family looking for a fun winter getaway, these resorts provide something for everyone. Each destination combines excellent skiing conditions with vibrant village life, making Australia a surprisingly delightful destination for winter sports. So, pack your ski gear and head to the Australian Alps for an unforgettable snowy adventure.

Traveling can be an enriching and life-changing experience, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With some careful planning, creative thinking, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone, you can explore the world without spending a fortune.

Book in Advance

One of the best ways to save money on travel is to book fights and accommodations well in advance.

Airlines and hotels often offer signifcant discounts for early bookings. Set up price alerts on travel websites to get notifcations when prices drop. Be Flexible with Dates and Destinations

Flexibility is key to fnding the best deals. If you can travel during off-peak seasons or mid-week, you’re more likely to fnd cheaper options. Use fare comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to explore the cheapest dates and destinations.

Pack Only What You Need

Avoid checked baggage fees by traveling with only a carry-on. This not only saves money but also makes it easier to move around. Pack versatile clothing that you can mix and match and be mindful of airline baggage policies to avoid unexpected charges.

Hostels and Budget Hotels

Hostels are a great option for budget travellers. They are not only cheaper than hotels but also offer a chance to meet fellow travellers. Websites like Hostelworld and Booking.com have extensive listings of budget-friendly accommodations.

Home Sharing and Couch-surfng

Consider home-sharing platforms like Airbnb or Couch surfng, where you can stay with locals for free or at a lower cost than traditional hotels. This not only saves money but also provides a more authentic travel experience.

House Sitting

Websites like TrustedHousesitters connect travellers with homeowners looking for someone to care for their property and pets while they are away. In exchange for your services, you get free accommodation.

Public Transportation

Use public transportation instead of taxis or rideshares. Buses, trams, and subways are usually much cheaper and provide a more immersive way to experience a city. Look for multi-day or unlimited travel passes for additional savings.

Walk or Bike

Many cities have bike-sharing programs or pedestrian-friendly areas. Walking or biking not only saves money but also allows you to explore places at your own pace.

Carpooling and Ride-sharing

If you need to travel longer distances, consider carpooling or ride-sharing services. These platforms connect drivers with passengers heading in the same direction, allowing you to share the cost of the journey.

Cook Your Own Meals

If you’re staying in a place with kitchen facilities, take advantage of them. Buying groceries and cooking your own meals can signifcantly cut down on food expenses. Visit local markets for fresh and affordable ingredients.

Eat Like a Local

Avoid touristy restaurants and seek out where the locals eat. Street food

and local eateries often offer delicious meals at a fraction of the cost. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals.

Take Advantage of Free Breakfasts

Many hostels and budget hotels offer free breakfast. Make the most of this by flling up in the morning, so you can spend less on lunch and snacks throughout the day.

Free Walking Tours

Many cities offer free walking tours led by knowledgeable local guides. These tours are usually tip-based, so you can pay what you can afford. They are a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture without spending a lot of money.

Museums and Attractions

Look for free or discounted admission days at museums and attractions. Many cities have passes that offer signifcant savings on multiple attractions. Research ahead of time to fnd out what’s available.

Outdoor Activities

Nature is often free to enjoy. Hiking, swimming, and exploring parks and beaches are fantastic ways to experience a destination without spending much. Look for outdoor festivals, concerts, and events that don’t charge admission.

Travel Apps

Download travel apps that help you fnd deals on fights, accommodations, and activities. Apps like Hopper, Kayak, and Skyscanner can help you track prices and fnd the best deals. Stay Connected for Less Avoid expensive international roaming charges by using a local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device. Apps

like WhatsApp, Skype, and FaceTime allow you to stay in touch with loved ones for free or at a low cost.

Currency Exchange

Use apps like XE Currency to monitor exchange rates and fnd the best time to convert your money. Avoid exchanging money at airports where rates are typically less favourable.

Volunteer or Work Abroad

Consider volunteering or working in exchange for room and board. Websites like Workaway and WWOOF connect travellers with opportunities to work on farms, hostels, and other projects around the world.

Travel Hacking

Sign up for travel reward programs and credit cards that offer points or miles. With strategic use, you can earn free fights, hotel stays, and other travel perks. Be sure to read the terms and conditions to avoid hidden fees.

Network with Fellow Travellers

Join travel forums, social media groups, and online communities where you can share tips and advice with other budget travellers. Sometimes the best recommendations come from those who have been there before.

Traveling on a budget requires a bit of planning and fexibility, but it’s entirely possible to see the world without spending a fortune. By making smart choices about when and where to go, how to get there, and where to stay, you can have amazing travel experiences without emptying your wallet. Remember, the goal of travel is to experience new places and cultures, not to spend extravagantly. So pack your bags, set your budget, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Landlord Exodus

Victoria’s rental market is bracing for a severe downturn, with new data indicating a troubling decline in investor activity and a net reduction in rental properties.

According to MCG Quantity Surveyors, the state is experiencing a signifcant drop in new investor loans, which is leading to a shortage of rental stock and escalating market pressures.

“Victoria’s rental market is in a precarious position,” states Mike Mortlock, Managing Director of MCG Quantity Surveyors. “Over the last three months, investor loans in Victoria totalled 10,220, translating to an annualized fgure of 40,880. During the same period, annualized ex-rentals were calculated at 45,924. This results in a net loss of 5,044 rental properties, a 1% decrease in the state’s private rental stock.”

The problem extends beyond current landlords leaving the market; prospective investors are also hesitant to invest in Victoria. This trend highlights a broader investor reluctance driven by unfavourable policies and market conditions that discourage investment in the state’s rental properties.

“Landlords are increasingly cautious about entering the Victorian market,” Mortlock continues.

“It’s not just about those who are leaving. Many potential investors are now

avoiding Victoria altogether, seeking opportunities in other states with more favourable conditions. This reluctance to invest is further shrinking the available rental stock, making it harder for tenants to fnd affordable housing.”

To tackle this crisis, it’s essential to focus on constructive solutions rather than assigning blame. Demonizing landlords could worsen the situation for renters, who are already struggling with reduced rental availability and rising prices.

“We need to resist the temptation to point fngers at landlords,” advises Mortlock.

“Blaming them as the bad guys will only exacerbate the problem, making things even worse for long-suffering renters. Instead, we should work on creating a more supportive environment for property investors, which in turn will help stabilize and grow the rental market.”

To mitigate this impending crisis, it is crucial for policymakers to develop strategies that encourage investment in the rental market. This could involve revising tax policies, offering incentives, and creating a more investor-friendly regulatory environment. By fostering a supportive climate for property investors, Victoria can enhance its rental stock and ensure more affordable housing options for its residents.

First-home buyers rushing back into the real estate market

First-time homebuyers are making a robust return to the real estate market nationwide, with home loan approvals for this demographic reaching pre-pandemic highs. According to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) for the March quarter, the value of new home loan commitments for frst-home buyers has surged by an impressive 17.9% year-on-year and 4.4% month-on-month, totalling $5.19 billion.

This resurgence follows a period of record lows in home loan approvals for frst-home buyers between 2021 and 2023.

The January quarter saw approvals reach their highest levels since the onset of the Covid pandemic, setting the stage for continued growth in the sector.

Mathew Tiller, Head of Research for the LJ Hooker Group, noted the changing landscape as the Reserve Bank

of Australia concludes its extended cycle of interest rate hikes.

He highlighted that frst-time purchasers are now exploring opportunities to enter the homeownership market, driven by aspirations to secure a property for living or investment purposes.

In March 2024, seasonally adjusted fgures for owneroccupier frst-home buyers revealed notable increases in new loan commitments:

• Nationally, there was a 4.5% rise to 9,918 approvals, marking a 9.9% increase compared to the previous year.

• Victoria experienced a 5.8% increase, Queensland saw a 4.2% rise, Western Australia recorded a 2.8% uptick, Tasmania surged by 12.9%, and the Australian Capital Territory saw a 1.6% increase.

• However, South Australia witnessed a 5.9% decline, New South Wales experienced

a 0.5% drop, and the Northern Territory recorded a signifcant 14.5% decrease.

Mr. Tiller emphasized that these fgures point to a probable further rise in frst-home buyer demand throughout 2024. With the likelihood of further rate increases diminishing, prospective buyers, particularly those entering the market for the frst time, are expected to feel more confdent about managing their future mortgage costs.

Beachfront Apartment Yields $170k

Annual Rental Income for New Owners

A beachfront apartment in Coolangatta, located in one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after holiday destinations, has become the city’s top property sale of the week. The threebedroom ocean view unit in the Nirvana by the Sea building sold off-market for $3.785 million. The buyers, a couple upgrading from another high-rise in

the same area, secured the property which commands a gross rental income of $170,000 per year from short-term accommodations.

The sellers, who moved to a penthouse with a rooftop pool in a nearby tower, facilitated the sale through Real Specialists agent Wayne Bisgrove. The apartment, located on the eighth foor at 805/1-3 Douglas St., is

in its original condition and last changed hands for $2.45 million in August 2020. It offers a fexible foorplan spread over 300 square metres of open-plan living, including three bedrooms, a media room, and an offce.

Key features of the property include a contemporary kitchen with a wide island bench and integrated Miele appliances, foor-toceiling glass windows offering views from Surfers Paradise to Snapper Rocks, and a covered balcony ideal for al fresco entertaining. The unit also boasts four bathrooms, including a master ensuite with a bathtub.

Built in 2009, Nirvana by the Sea consists of 66 two and threebedroom apartments designed to offer 5-star accommodation to holidaymakers.

The building features amenities such as a heated lap pool, spa, sauna, and gym. According to PropTrack data, unit prices in Coolangatta have risen by 4.7% over the past 12 months, reaching a median price of $995,000.

Wayne Bisgrove noted that both the buyers and the sellers had previously rented their properties as holiday lets. He mentioned that interstate buyers and retirees are currently the most active in the local market, with an even split between owner-occupiers and investors. Recent research by AirDNA on the international holiday rental market revealed that Gold Coast properties have a revenue per available room (RevPAR) of $258, the highest in Australia behind the Whitsundays. Seiko Ma, CEO of Alice’s Home, explained that RevPAR is a metric that measures how well a property generates revenue by optimizing occupancy rates and pricing strategies.

Mortgage Stress on the Rise: 30.8% of Mortgage Holders ‘At Risk’ in April

New research from Roy Morgan reveals that 1,560,000 mortgage holders (30.8%) in Australia were ‘At Risk’ of mortgage stress in the three months to April 2024. This fgure represents a 29,000 increase from

The number of Australians ‘At Risk’ of mortgage stress has risen by 753,000 since May 2022, when the RBA began increasing interest rates. Currently, the offcial interest rate stands at 4.35%, the highest since December

Those considered ‘Extremely At Risk’ have interest-only payments that surpass a certain proportion of household income.

Employment and Mortgage Stress

Unemployment remains the most critical factor

2022 indicates easing infation pressures, yet the level remains above the RBA’s target range of 2-3%. High petrol prices, for instance, have persisted for a record 45 consecutive weeks above $1.80 per litre.

the RBA’s rate hikes have undoubtedly increased fnancial pressure on many mortgage holders, the concurrent rise in household incomes has provided some relief. As the economic

“Extremely at Risk” is also based on those paying more than a certain proportion of their after-tax household income into their home loan, based on the Standard Variable Rate set by the RBA and the

Mortgage Stress – % of Owner-Occupied Mortgage-Holders Mortgage Risk projected forward following interest rate increase in June 2024

the previous month but remains below the peak levels seen earlier in 2024.

Despite no Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) board meeting on interest rates in April, mortgage stress increased from March levels but stayed lower than the highs in January and February 2024. These earlier peaks followed the RBA’s latest interest rate hike in November 2023. A key factor in the lower levels of mortgage stress in March and April has been rising household incomes, which have eased fnancial pressure on some mortgage holders.

Although the current percentage of mortgage holders ‘At Risk’ is signifcant, it is still well below the record high of 35.6% reached during the Global Financial Crisis in mid-2008, refecting the larger size of the Australian mortgage market today. Rising Mortgage Stress Since Interest Rate Increases Began

2011. Additionally, 994,000 mortgage holders (20.2%) are considered ‘Extremely At Risk’, a signifcant rise from the long-term average of 14.4% over the last decade.

Projected Increase in Mortgage Stress

Roy Morgan has modelled the impact of a potential RBA interest rate hike of +0.25% in June 2024, which would raise the rate to 4.6%.

Under this scenario, the number of mortgage holders ‘At Risk’ would increase slightly to 1,566,000 (30.9%) in June 2024, a 6,000 increase from April 2024. This number could rise further to 1,579,000 (31.2%) in July 2024, an increase of 19,000 from April 2024.

Determinants of Mortgage Stress Mortgage holders are classifed as ‘At Risk’ if their mortgage repayments exceed a certain percentage of their household income, which varies depending on income and spending.

impacting household income and mortgage stress. Roy Morgan’s April unemployment estimates show nearly one-in-fve Australian workers are either unemployed or underemployed, totalling 3,129,000 (19.8% of the workforce). This is an increase of 503,000 from a year ago.

Insights from Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine

Michele Levine, CEO of Roy Morgan, highlighted the slight increase in mortgage stress in April and noted the importance of household income over interest rates in determining mortgage stress levels. She pointed out that the employment market’s strength over the past year, with 418,000 new jobs created, has been crucial in moderating increases in mortgage stress despite high interest rates.

The recent decrease in annual infation to 3.6% in March 2024 from 7.8% in December

Levine emphasized that while interest rates are a signifcant factor, employment and household income play a more substantial role in determining mortgage stress. The robust job market has supported rising household incomes, helping to alleviate some mortgage stress pressures.

Conclusion

The data underscores the delicate balance between interest rates, employment, and mortgage stress. While

landscape evolves, closely monitoring these variables will be crucial for understanding and addressing mortgage stress in Australia.

“At Risk” is based on those paying more than a certain proportion of their after-tax household income (25% to 45% depending on income and spending) into their home loan, based on the appropriate Standard Variable Rate reported by the RBA and the amount they initially borrowed.

amount now outstanding on their home loan.

“At Risk” is based on those paying more than a certain proportion of their after-tax household income (25% to 45% depending on income and spending) into their home loan, based on the appropriate Standard Variable Rate reported by the RBA and the amount they initially borrowed.

“Extremely at Risk” is also based on those paying more than a certain proportion of their after-tax household income into their home loan, based on the Standard Variable Rate set by the RBA and the amount now outstanding on their home loan.

Source: Roy Morgan Single Source (Australia), average interviews per 3 month period April 2007 –April 2024, n=2,789. Base: Australians 14+ with owner occupied home loan.

Source: Roy Morgan Single Source (Australia), February – April 2024, n=3,679. Base: Australians 14+ with owner occupied home loan.

Protect Yourself and Others from Serious Illness as Flu Season Starts in NSW

NSW Health strongly urges the community to stay up to date with their vaccinations to protect themselves and others, as the fu season begins, and notifcations of respiratory viruses rise across the state.

The latest NSW Health Respiratory Surveillance Report shows that infuenza and COVID-19 transmission in the community is increasing, while respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains at high levels.

NSW Chief Health Offcer Dr. Kerry Chant said the latest data shows more than 2,000 people were diagnosed with infuenza across NSW in the week ending 11 May 2024.

“We are now offcially entering the infuenza season, with cases expected to surge rapidly in the next six to eight weeks, so now is the time to book in for a fu vaccine to protect yourself and your loved ones,” Dr. Chant said.

“This is a timely reminder for parents, as we are already seeing an increase in the number of young children becoming sick with the virus. The fu vaccine is readily available and free for those at higher risk of severe illness, including children aged six months to under fve years.

“We are also seeing COVID-19 activity increase from low to moderate levels and expect that COVID-19 will also continue to increase, so we are encouraging the community to make sure they are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations.

“With all three viruses in circulation, we also want to remind the community that

How the Federal Budget Affects You

symptomatic people should stay at home and wear a mask if they do need to go out. They should avoid visiting high-risk settings like hospitals, aged, and disability care facilities.”

There are a few simple steps you can take to help protect yourself and your loved ones from respiratory viruses like COVID-19, infuenza, and RSV, including:

• Stay up to date with your recommended fu and COVID-19 vaccinations

• Stay home if you are sick and wear a mask if you need to leave home

• Get together outdoors or in large, well-ventilated spaces with open doors and windows

• Consider doing a rapid antigen test (RAT) before visiting people at higher risk of severe illness

• Talk with your doctor now if you are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 or infuenza to make a plan about what to do if you get sick, including what test to take, and discussing if you are eligible for antiviral medicines

• Don’t visit people who are at higher risk of severe illness if you are sick or have tested positive for COVID-19 or infuenza

More information on infuenza and the COVID-19 booster vaccines can be found here:

• NSW Health Infuenza Information www.nsw.gov.au/ health/infuenza

• NSW Health COVID-19 Vaccination Information www. nsw.gov.au/covid-19/ vaccination

Stay protected and help safeguard the community as we enter fu season.

The 2024/25 Federal Budget has introduced several measures aimed at addressing the cost-ofliving challenges faced by seniors. National Seniors Australia (NSA) has been instrumental in advocating for these changes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s included in the budget and how it impacts you.

COST OF LIVING

$300 Energy Bill

Relief - households will receive a $300 rebate on their energy bills, provided directly via electricity bills. Unlike last year’s $500 rebate, this new relief will not be means-tested, making it accessible to all households. This is in addition to any state-based rebates, such as Queensland’s $1,372 energy rebate for eligible seniors, which NSA also supported.

Commonwealth Rent Assistance - Starting 20 September 2024, the maximum rate of Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA) will increase by 10%, translating to an additional $18.80 per fortnight, or nearly $500 annually, for single renters at the maximum rate. This follows a 15% increase last year. NSA continues to advocate for changes in the CRA indexation process to better refect rent increases rather than the overall CPI.

12-Month Freeze on Deeming Rates - The budget extends the freeze on social security deeming rates for another 12 months, maintaining the current rates until 30 June 2025. This provides stability for pensioners amid rising interest rates. The lower deeming rate remains at 0.25%, and the upper rate at 2.25%.

TAX MEASURES

Tax Cuts for All

Taxpayers - Effective from 1 July, the tax cuts will beneft all 13.6 million taxpayers, including many seniors. The 19% tax rate will be reduced to 16%, and the 32.5% rate to 30%, while the 37% and 45% rates will remain unchanged but with adjusted thresholds. These changes will ensure that an additional 2.9 million people earning $45,000 or less receive a tax cut.

HEALTH

INITIATIVES

Freeze on Medication Co-payment Indexation - The budget includes a fve-year freeze on the Pharmaceutical Benefts Scheme (PBS) copayment for pensioners and Commonwealth concession cardholders, keeping it at $7.70 until 31 December 2029. The general co-payment will be frozen at $31.60 from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025.

Higher Medicare Levy Thresholds - The income thresholds before paying the Medicare levy will increase for lower-income seniors and pensioners. For singles, the threshold will rise from $38,365 to $41,089, and for senior couples, from $53,406 to $57,198.

Pharmaceutical Benefts Scheme - The budget allocates $3.4 billion for new and amended PBS listings, including treatments for COVID-19, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, chronic kidney disease, multiple sclerosis, and various cancers, among others.

Hospital Discharge Support - An $882.1 million investment aims to support the earlier discharge of older Australians from hospitals. This includes $610.4 million for state and territory governments to address

long-stay older patients and ongoing funding for transition care and palliative care programs.

Mental Health Services - A package of $588.5 million over eight years will establish a free national digital health service to improve mental health and suicide prevention.

AGED CARE REFORMS

Aged Care Funding

- The government has committed $2.2 billion over fve years to ongoing aged care reforms, including the new Aged Care Act effective from 1 July 2025 and the consolidated Support at Home program.

Aged Care ICT and Digital Systems - $1.2 billion will be invested over fve years to enhance digital systems within aged care. An additional $174.5 million over two years will fund the ICT infrastructure for the new Support at Home Program and Single Assessment System starting 1 July 2025.

Home Care Packages

- An extra 24,100 home care packages will be available in 2024–25, costing $531.4 million. This aims to reduce waitlist times, which worsened last year due to lower package availability.

Quality and Safety

- The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission will receive $110.9 million over four years to enhance its regulatory capacity and implement a new regulatory framework by 1 July 2025.

Workforce Support$65.6 million over four years will go towards attracting and retaining aged care workers, collecting reliable data, and improving outcomes for care recipients. However,

NSA’s recommendation to amend Age Pension Income Test rules for older care sector workers has not been implemented.

My Aged Care Contact Centre - The centre will receive $37 million over two years to reduce wait times due to increased demand and service complexity.

Dementia and Palliative Care - $30.4 million over three years will continue the Specialist Dementia Care Program, with additional funding for dementia research and palliative care training programs.

Support in Thin Markets - The Home Care Workforce Support Program will receive additional funding to grow the care workforce in regional and remote areas. Providers in these areas will also receive $7.8 million over two years to transition to the new funding model.

ADDITIONAL BUDGET INITIATIVES

Services Australia Staff - $1.8 billion will be allocated for additional frontline staff at Services Australia, aimed at improving service standards and reducing claims backlogs.

Flexibility for Carers - From 20 March 2025, the participation limit for carers will change to 100 hours over four weeks, and this limit will only apply to work, not study, volunteering, or travel.

Veteran SupportAdditional funding will be provided to improve the viability of home care and community nursing programs for veterans, enhance claims processing, and simplify veterans’ compensation and rehabilitation processes.

Men’s Sheds - Aligned with the National Men’s Health Strategy, $11.6 million over two years will support Men’s Sheds and national men’s health research and data collection initiatives.

The 2024/25 Federal Budget demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing the needs of seniors through signifcant fnancial relief and targeted support across various sectors.

Peeling Back the Truth About Supermarket Pricing

Many older grocery shoppers struggle with small print and illegible but essential product information. This issue must be addressed, and National Seniors Australia (NSA) has recommended ways to improve the situation.

Increased Scrutiny and Cost-of-Living Pressures

Supermarkets are currently under intense public scrutiny, as consumers face extreme cost-of-living pressures. Various inquiries into alleged misconduct by supermarkets involving suppliers, staff, customers, and regulators have dominated recent news. The latest inquiry, the Senate Select Committee on Supermarket Prices, has just delivered its report.

NSA’s Advocacy and Unit Pricing

In its submission to the committee, NSA highlighted concerns about high prices and poor unit price labelling. The committee has acknowledged NSA’s

input and addressed these issues in its report.

Unit Pricing Challenges

NSA emphasized the importance of seniors being able to easily compare products and prices across different brands. Effective price comparison requires accessible information, but recent trends have made this increasingly diffcult. The display of unit pricing is inconsistent across supermarkets, complicating comparisons for consumers, particularly older individuals with vision impairments.

The Grocery Unit Pricing Code mandates that certain retailers, such as supermarkets, provide unit pricing (price per standard unit of measure) to facilitate value comparisons. This is intended to empower consumer choice and foster competition between brands and products. However, supermarkets often fail to present unit pricing in a clear and understandable

manner.

Call for Better Enforcement

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), which administers the Grocery Unit Pricing Code, needs to take stronger action to monitor and enforce compliance. This is especially crucial when product sizes change or vary. NSA, alongside the Queensland Consumers Association, has recommended that the ACCC prioritize enforcing retailer compliance with the Unit Pricing Code and be adequately resourced to do so.

NSA also advocates for the Federal Government to conduct an independent national review of the unit pricing system to assess and improve its effectiveness and administration.

Committee Recommendations

The Senate committee’s report to the Federal Government refects NSA’s recommendations, urging the government

to:

• Implement a mandatory information standard for unit pricing, enhancing the legibility and prominence of unit prices and noting changes in product prices and sizes.

• Standardize and rationalize discount and promotional terms to prevent misleading promotional material.

• Prominently disclose any changes in product price or size.

The committee also recommends increasing the ACCC’s enforcement powers to better police compliance with the Unit Pricing Code and the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct and to prosecute offenders.

Truth in Labelling

Consumers are not only frustrated by poor unit pricing but also by the legibility and accuracy of shop labelling. Major supermarkets like Coles, Woolworths, and Aldi have faced criticism for potentially misleading promotional labels.

Consumer advocacy group Choice found that

one in four shoppers had diffculty determining if promotional price tags represented genuine discounts.

Research revealed widespread confusion, with supermarkets arguably using various labels to manipulate and hinder informed purchasing decisions.

Small Print Labelling

Small print and confusing label designs further exacerbate the problem, particularly for older individuals and those with disabilities. This issue extends beyond supermarket shelf labels to packaging information, where small print and poor colour contrasts make reading diffcult.

Campaign for Better Labelling

Following its success with the Senate inquiry, the Queensland Consumers Association (QCA), supported by NSA, is campaigning for improved labelling in supermarkets. QCA’s Ian Jarratt points out that current regulations do not specify minimum

print sizes or objective, measurable standards for label legibility. Discrimination Concerns

Poor labelling practices disproportionately affect people with disabilities, potentially violating anti-discrimination laws. General consumer law prohibitions against misleading or deceptive conduct and potential unfair conduct prohibitions may also be relevant.

Need for Legislative Change

There is a signifcant need for legislative changes and for regulators to prioritize and adequately resource the monitoring and enforcement of compliance. Consumers are encouraged to report diffcult-to-read or misleading consumer information to the relevant regulators. By addressing these issues, we can ensure that all consumers, especially older Australians, can make informed choices about the products they buy.

NSW Custody Statistics: Quarterly update March 2024

The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research has today released adult and youth custody statistics up to March 2024.

The key fndings include:

Adults

• In March 2024, there were 12,456 adults in custody, which remains considerably lower than prior to the pandemic (down 1,010 or 8% lower than in March 2019).

• While the overall prison population remains low, the remand population is now at its highest point on record (5,452 in March 2024, up 674 or 14% since March 2019).

• The main offences driving the increase in the adult remand population include domestic assault (up 236 or 35.7%), sexual offences (up 177 or 30.1%), non-domestic assault (up 122 or

BOWEN THERAPY

18.4%), intimidation/ stalking (up 148 or 96.1%), and weapons offences (up 82 or 67.2%). The number of people on remand for these offences has increased because the number of people charged has increased (the remand rate by comparison is largely unchanged).

• In March 2024, there were 3,008 adults in custody for domestic

violence offences (up 762 or 33.9% since March 2019). More than half (52.2%) were on remand.

• The Aboriginal prison population is also now at a record high, with 3,841 Aboriginal adults in prison in March 2024. This is equivalent to 31% of the prison population. Young people

• In March 2024, the youth detention population was 223. This is only slightly

lower than prior to the pandemic (down 22 or 9% lower than in March 2019).

• The main offences for which young people are on remand are: break and enter (23.1%), car theft (16.6%) and robbery (16.6%).

• There were 148 Aboriginal young people in youth detention at the end of March 2024, 27 more than in March 2019. Two-thirds (66.4%)

of the youth detention population is now made up of Aboriginal young people which is the highest on record.

• Currently, 78.4% of Aboriginal young people in detention are on remand. The main offences for which Aboriginal young people are on remand are: break and enter (29.3%) and car theft (22.4%).

By Jeff Gibbs

Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max: Luxury on a Budget

Chery’s new fagship SUV, the Tiggo 8 Pro Max, aims to bring a taste of luxury to the affordable end of the market. Priced from $41,990 drive-away, this mid-sized, seven-seater SUV promises value while offering a host of features typically found in more expensive vehicles. Here’s a closer look at what this Chinese newcomer has to offer.

Pricing and Variants

• Urban ($41,990 drive-away):

o 18-inch alloy wheels

o Synthetic leather upholstery

o Ambient lighting

o 360-degree camera

o Wireless phone charging

o 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster

o 12.3-inch central infotainment screen

o Heated and ventilated front seats with electric adjustment and memory settings

• Elite (Additional $2000):

o Powered tailgate

o Heated exterior mirrors

o Forward-facing dash camera

o Third-row air vents with fan speed adjustment

• Ultimate ($47,990 drive-away):

o All-wheel drive

o Tinted windows

o Panoramic sunroof

o Exterior puddle lights

o Additional speakers (10 total)

Design and Interior

The Tiggo 8 Pro Max blends sharp design with practical functionality. Its interior, designed to rival six-fgure luxury cars, features high-quality materials like synthetic leather, wood-look trim, and silver highlights. The front seats are plush, and there is ample storage, including a spacious area beneath the centre console.

Key interior features

include:

• Touch-sensitive buttons on the dash for ventilation and window demisting, which bring up associated menus on the main display.

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

• An infotainment system with intuitive menus and controls.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Tiggo 8 Pro Max houses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine that produces 180kW and 375Nm of torque. This engine provides strong low-end power but can struggle with traction in the front-wheel-drive Elite model, especially during tight cornering. The all-wheel-drive Ultimate model mitigates these traction issues.

Transmission and handling insights:

• Seven-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission, which sometimes hesitates from a standstill and during lower gear acceleration.

• Steering lacks feedback and is inconsistent under acceleration, particularly in the front-drive model.

• Normal and Sport modes add weight to

the steering but do not signifcantly improve feedback.

• Soft suspension leads to body roll in corners but provides a generally comfortable ride.

Practicality and Usability

The Tiggo 8 Pro Max is designed with family use in mind, offering three rows of seats. However, the third row is best suited for smaller passengers, and accessing it is easier from the driver’s side due to the single outboard seat design.

Key practical features:

• Middle row seats can slide forward to increase legroom for third-row passengers.

• The Elite and Ultimate models include third-row air vents to improve comfort for rear passengers.

Conclusion

The Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max stands out with its luxury-like interior and extensive list of standard features at a competitive price point. While it has some minor drawbacks in handling and third-row accessibility, its value proposition and wellappointed cabin make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish and well-equipped sevenseater SUV.

BMW Skytop Concept: A Glimpse into BMW’s Design Futurea

By Jeff Gibbs

The BMW Skytop concept, recently leaked ahead of its offcial unveiling at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Italy, marks a signifcant return to design brilliance for the German automaker. This luxury two-seat targa-top roadster, rooted in the 8 Series, blends elements from BMW’s storied past with futuristic design cues, signalling potential directions for the brand’s future grand tourers.

Design and Features

The Skytop is characterized by its substantial dimensions, featuring a long bonnet and an expansive rear, reminiscent of classic BMW roadsters. This design pays homage to the Z4, Z3, and the limited-production Z8,

while forging a new path with its modern aesthetics.

Exterior Design:

o Front End: The Skytop sports a sleek BMW kidney grille fanked by thin strip headlights. Large air intakes on the front bumper hint at performance capabilities, yet the overall look is more refned than some of BMW’s recent aggressive designs.

o Body Lines and Wheels: The car rides on turbine-style wheels and features sharp, clean body lines. The removable targa roof stands out as a focal point, enhancing its sporty appeal.

o Rear End: Thin horizontal taillights echo the front headlights, and a ducktail spoiler adds a touch of aerodynamic elegance. Dual oval

exhaust tips integrated into the rear bumper hint at powerful performance.

Interior Design:

o The interior of the Skytop, while reminiscent of the 8 Series, takes luxury up a notch with gold accents, crystal trim pieces, and plush reddishbrown leather. The cabin exudes opulence and sophistication, embodying BMW’s commitment to luxury and comfort.

o The Skytop is equipped with the

latest BMW iDrive infotainment system, traditional wing mirrors, a rear-view mirror, and practical elements like a tow hook cap, indicating its readiness for production.

Powertrain and Performance

The absence of blue outlining on the BMW roundel suggests that the Skytop will be powered by an internal combustion engine, rather than a plug-in hybrid or electric powertrain. This

aligns with the vehicle’s design ethos, harkening back to classic roadsters while embracing modern performance standards.

Implications and Speculations

The Skytop concept could herald several possibilities for BMW’s lineup:

Future 8 Series:

The design language and features might foreshadow a new generation of the 8 Series, possibly indicating a shift towards more exclusive, high-end designs in BMW’s grand tourer segment.

• One-off Show Car: Alternatively, the Skytop might be a unique creation meant to showcase BMW’s design capabilities and innovation, without a direct production counterpart.

Offcial Unveiling

The Skytop concept made its offcial debut at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este between May 24 to 26. It will be displayed alongside the M Hybrid Art Car, offering a full reveal of its capabilities and design intricacies.

The BMW Skytop concept reaffrms the brand’s prowess in luxury automotive design, combining elements of heritage and innovation to create a vehicle that captivates both the eye and the imagination. As more details emerge, enthusiasts and industry watchers alike will be keen to see how BMW translates this concept into its future production lineup.

By Jeff Gibbs

Key Points:

• Affordable Pricing for Australia: The anticipated $80,000-plus price tag for the BYD Shark announced at its global launch in Mexico will not apply in Australia.

• Towing Capacity

Concerns: The initial 2500kg braked towing capacity is unlikely to be increased to the class-standard 3500kg at launch.

• Launch Date: Expected in late 2024.

Australian enthusiasts of the new 2024 BYD Shark can rest easy. Despite the high price announced at the global launch in Mexico, the 4x4 dual-cab plug-in hybrid ute will be more affordable in Australia.

BYD Shark Ute Won’t Cost $80,000

Local BYD importer EVDirect’s CEO, David Smitherman, assures a competitive pricing strategy to ensure the vehicle is attractive to Australian buyers.

Smitherman stated, “Our objective is to grow market share, and to do that, you have to have

a really strong offering on pricing and product. We are working hard to achieve that.”

However, hopes that the Shark’s towing capacity might be increased to the classstandard 3500kg appear

unfounded for the initial launch. The current 2500kg capacity, along with an 875kg payload, falls short of market leaders. Smitherman and his team are pushing for higher specs, but fnal specifcations for

Australia are yet to be determined.

Liu Xueliang, BYD Asia Pacifc Auto Sales Division general manager, indicated that achieving a 3.5-tonne towing capacity for the frst generation is

unlikely. “For the BYD Shark frst generation, we probably won’t be able to achieve 3.5 tonnes,” he told Australian media. Despite these limitations, feedback from Mexico has been positive. The two 1.5-litre petrol enginebased powertrains revealed are likely to come to Australia, with the local specifcation still to be fnalized. Additionally, singlecab and cab/chassis workhorse versions of the Shark are planned, and a battery-electric BYD ute is also under development.

Smitherman remains optimistic about the Shark’s potential in the Australian market, highlighting ongoing efforts to refne the vehicle’s specifcations to meet local demands.

Cheaper 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Turbo-Petrol to Follow New Hybrid

By Jeff Gibbs

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe, a seven-seater family SUV, will soon offer a more affordable petrol-only version, scheduled to arrive in Australian showrooms by the end of this year. Initially launched with hybrid power, the Santa Fe lineup will expand to include a 2.5-litre turbocharged fourcylinder petrol engine in November or December.

Expected Pricing

The new petrol variant is anticipated to lower the entry price of the Santa Fe range from the current $55,500 plus on-road costs of the hybrid model. If pricing differences between petrol and hybrid versions of the previous Santa Fe lineup serve as an indicator, the new petrol Santa Fe might start around $52,000

plus on-road costs, or approximately $55,000 drive-away. This price point would still be about $6000 more than the previous base-model V6 variant.

Engine and Performance

The new 2.5-litre turbocharged four-

cylinder engine, which also powers the Hyundai Sonata sedan, will replace the outgoing 3.5-litre non-turbo V6 engine. The turbocharged engine produces 206kW of power and 422Nm of torque, compared to the 200kW and 331Nm of the previous V6. It

will be paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Summary

• Current Hybrid Model Price: $55,500 plus on-road costs

• Expected Petrol

Model Price: Approximately $52,000 plus on-road costs or $55,000 drive-away

• Engine Specs: 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder,

206kW/422Nm

• Transmission: Eight-speed dual-clutch automatic

• Availability: November or December 2024

The introduction of the petrol-only Santa Fe provides a more budget-friendly option for buyers, while still offering enhanced power and performance compared to the previous V6 model.

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Power to the people…who need it least.

Three hundred bucks, yoohoo!

Thanks Albo.

Everyone is lying in bed today praising the PM and pondering what they will do with this serious extra coin, except that of course it’s going straight off your electricity bill and into the hands of energy companies the CEOs of which will now achieve their KPIs and handsome bonusses as a result and make our already mindbogglingly complicated electricity bills

Paracombe Adelaide Hills Chardonnay 2020, $42. There is so much good chardonnay these days and so little time, we’d best make a start or we’ll never make it. Start with this. 9.4/10.

Paracombe Adelaide Hills Malbec 2019, $32. After a week of wimpy pinots and other lighter

even ‘complicateder’.

But it’s fair isn’t it?

Everyone gets it, sort of. Obviously it’s $300 for anyone who pays an electricity bill, so actually many won’t get it, the homeless for instance. Oh well.

Of course there is some debate about whether rich people should get it given they will just pop it into their super or a bottle of Dom Perignon, which actually won’t be quite enough so don’t get too

fuffy stuff one yearns for a manly (or womanly) red wine with guts. A juicy 14.5 per cent malbec was the perfect antidote. But do I have to wait until next Friday for another? 9.4/10.

Paracombe Adelaide Hills Cabernet Franc 2018, $32. Cab franc can be a tad uninteresting,

excited.

“Just too complicated to give to some and not others”, said Treasurer Jim, yet he has no trouble, or more correctly goes to a lot of trouble to dish out capital gains concessions, negative gearing and franking credits, and how complicated are they?

Man you need a degree in fnance to understand franking, not to mention having to redirect your moral compass from “WTF” to “Yes, this is fair”

but this one breaks the mould…or is it mold. Anyway it’s broken, alright! No use crying over spilt milk. Okay, it’s more expensive than milk, but it tastes just as good. Snap…three 9.4/10s in a row.

Coriole McLaren Vale Sangiovese 2022, $30. This feels way lighter

at the same time. However a private school education helps enormously with all of the above, except alas they won’t even pick up the phone for $300.

Okay, having such a gift income-means-tested is problematic, given our most wealthy often declare zero income, but why single out energy?

Why not give the money straight to Harvey Norman, or Brad Banducci, the oil industry or Jeff Bezos?

Paying TV subscription

than 14 per cent suggests and it takes a moment to adapt to the slightly Euro-red favours. So just act as if you are on holidays in Italy, and you will enjoy it 20 per cent more. 9.1/10.

Coriole McLaren Vale (The New Australian Collection) Piquepoul 2023, $28. Another of

services instead of electricity would be much more fun, while $300 worth of juice would keep most people’s cars going for weeks which seems much better value than running your reverse-cycle heater for three days, specially if you live in your car.

Giving everyone $300 is like giving $10 to a homeless person in the street, and then deciding, to be fair you should also give $10 to everyone else, including those entering the

the continuing wave of wine from imaginative growers luring people away from the white wine staples and it succeeds in many ways not least a weird name and a truly interesting white wine. How much more do you need? An extra point for novelty. 9.3/10.

Star Casino or Grand Hyatt. Struth, are we that shallow and bereft of political and social thought that $300 will buy our vote? It does nothing to alter the cause of cost-ofliving pressure, indeed merely perpetuates it. How about the government buys everyone one solar panel each, each year until all our homes are powered for free? And then give us all $300 to support the wine industry and celebrate. I’m starting now :

Coriole McLaren Vale Negroamaro 2023, $30. The ideal wine for a streaming binge. Light enough at 13.5 per cent but characterful enough to run with at least four eps’ without thinking of changing style let alone channels. 9.4/10.

Max Crus

BREAKFAST EGG AND HAM MUFFINS

5 INGREDIENTS

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

• oil spray

• 4 eggs

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

• 4 (English) muffns, halved and toasted

• 120g shaved leg ham

3 METHOD STEPS

Step 1

Spray a frying pan with oil. Heat over medium heat. Cook ham, turning, for 2 to 3 minutes or until light golden. Transfer to a plate. Cover to keep warm.

Step 2

Preheat grill on medium. Lightly spray pan with oil. Heat over medium heat. Cook eggs for 4

• 4 slices tasty cheese

minutes or until cooked to your liking.

Step 3

Place 4 muffn halves on a baking tray lined with foil. Place 1 egg on each muffn. Top each with ham and 1 slice cheese. Grill for 1 minute or until cheese has melted. Top with remaining muffn halves. Serve.

SLOW COOKER PANANG BEEF CURRY

SLOW COOKED TUSCAN BREAD SOUP

16 INGREDIENTS

• 2 tsp olive oil

• 1 brown onion, fnely chopped

• 2 carrots, peeled, chopped

• 2 celery sticks, trimmed, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 200g cavalo nero (Tuscan cabbage), stem removed, leaves shredded

• 2 thick slices Italian bread (pane di casa), lightly toasted, torn into chunks

15m prep 4h cook

6 servings

• 1 tsp fennel seeds

• Pinch of dried chilli fakes

• 400g can crushed tomatoes

• 400g can Cannellini Beans, drained, rinsed

• 1L (4 cups) Massel vegetable liquid stock

• 40g (1/2cup) fnely grated parmesan, (or vegetarian hard cheese) plus extra shaved, to serve

• 1 lemon, juiced, zested

GREEK CHICKEN MEATBALL AND LEMON SOUP

• Finely chopped continental parsley, to serve

• Bouquet garni (4 fresh or dried bay leaves, 4 fresh sprigs thyme, 2 fresh sprigs rosemary)

2 METHOD STEPS

15m prep 20 cook 4 servings

almost tender.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tbsp peanut oil

• 1 brown onion, cut into thin wedges

• 80g (1⁄3 cup) Panaeng Curry Paste

• 70g (1/4 cup) natural peanut butter

• 270ml can coconut milk

• 2 makrut lime leaves, torn, plus extra to serve

• 1 tsp brown sugar

• 2 tsp fsh sauce

• 1kg beef chuck steak, cut into 3cm pieces

• 1 small eggplant, chopped

INGREDIENTS

Step 1

• 3 eggs

• 500g chicken mince

• 1 tbsp oregano, fnely chopped

• 1 tbsp fat-leaf parsley, fnely chopped

Set a 5L slow cooker to Browning. Heat oil. Cook onion, carrot and celery for 5 minutes or until tender. Add garlic, fennel and chilli. Cook for 1 minute. Add tomato, beans, stock and bouquet garni. Season. Change cooker setting to High. Cover. Cook for 3-4 hours or until vegetables are

• 2 spring onions, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup (50g) dried breadcrumbs

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 brown onion, fnely chopped

• 4 cups (1L) chicken liquid stock

• 75g spaghetti, broken into 5cm lengths

• 1/3 cup (80ml) lemon juice

• Flat-leaf parsley leaves, to serve

• Lemon wedges, to serve

METHOD

Step 2

Stir in cavalo nero, bread and parmesan. Cover and cook on High for 30 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly. Stir in lemon juice, to taste. Serve topped with parsley, lemon zest and extra parmesan.

2. Heat half the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for 5 mins, turning occasionally, until browned all over. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a clean plate.

3. Meanwhile, heat the remaining oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring, for 5 mins or until onion softens. Pour in the stock.

4. Add the meatballs and spaghetti to the stock mixture in the saucepan. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 10 mins or until the meatballs are cooked through and spaghetti is al dente.

• 150g green beans, trimmed and halved

• Gluten-free roti, to serve

• Steamed white rice, to serve

METHOD

1. Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until soft. Add the curry paste and peanut butter. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute. In 4 batches, add the coconut milk, stirring well after each addition until combined. Add the makrut leaves, sugar and fsh sauce.

“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.”

1. Lightly whisk 1 egg in a large bowl. Add mince, oregano, parsley, spring onion and breadcrumbs and mix well to combine. Roll tablespoons of the mixture into balls and place on a plate.

5. Whisk the lemon juice and remaining eggs in a medium bowl until well combined. Whisk 1 cup of the hot soup into the egg mixture. Gently stir the egg mixture into the soup until combined. Stir over low heat for 2 mins or until the soup thickens slightly. Remove from heat. Divide among serving bowls. Serve with parsley leaves and lemon wedges.

2. Place the beef in a slow cooker. Pour over the onion mixture and stir until combined. Cover and cook on Low for 7 hours. Add the eggplant and beans. Cover and cook for 1 hour or until the vegetables are tender.

- Auguste Escoffer

3. Top the curry with extra makrut leaves. Divide among serving bowls. Serve with roti and rice.

GARDENING NEWS 52

The Importance of Taking Breaks While Gardening

Gardening is a fulflling and therapeutic activity, offering a chance to connect with nature and cultivate beautiful spaces. However, the physical demands of gardening are often underestimated, leading to fatigue and even injury if proper care is not taken. One crucial aspect of maintaining both productivity and health in the garden is the importance of taking regular breaks.

Gardening involves a variety of physical tasks such as repetitive motions, bending, lifting, and prolonged periods of standing or kneeling. These activities can strain muscles and joints, resulting in discomfort and potential injuries such as back pain, tendonitis, or knee problems. Taking regular breaks allows your body to recover and reduces the risk of overuse injuries. Incorporating stretching exercises during these breaks can help maintain fexibility, improve circulation, and prevent stiffness.

Furthermore, breaks provide an opportunity to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the elements.

Dehydration and heat exhaustion are common risks, especially during the hotter months. By taking short, frequent breaks to drink water and rest in the shade, you can prevent these conditions and maintain your energy levels. Additionally, wearing appropriate clothing and applying sunscreen can help protect against sunburn and overheating.

Consider using a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay cool and

shielded from the sun. Mental well-being is another signifcant beneft of taking breaks while gardening. Extended periods of intense focus and physical exertion can lead to mental fatigue. Stepping away from your tasks periodically helps to clear your mind, reduce stress, and maintain motivation. Breaks give you a chance to enjoy the beauty of your garden from a different perspective, fostering a deeper appreciation for your work. Taking a moment to observe the fruits of your labor, listen to the sounds of nature, and breathe in the fresh air can rejuvenate your spirit and enhance your overall gardening experience. Incorporating regular breaks into your gardening routine can enhance both your enjoyment and the effectiveness of your efforts. Setting a timer can be a helpful reminder to pause, stretch, hydrate, and relax. Consider using these breaks to check on other aspects of your garden, like inspecting plants for pests or diseases, or simply sitting back and appreciating the progress you’ve made. Gardening should be a source of joy, not strain. By taking care of your body and mind, you ensure that you can continue to tend to your garden with enthusiasm and care. Remember, a well-tended garden requires a well-tended gardener. Embrace the practice of taking breaks, and you’ll fnd that your gardening endeavors are not only more productive but also more enjoyable.

Vegetables That Don’t Grow Well Together

Gardening is a beloved hobby for many, with veggie patches being the pride and joy of avid gardeners. The sight of lush green plants and the promise of fresh, home-grown produce is incredibly rewarding. However, it can be frustrating and disheartening when your crops don’t produce fruit or start to wither. Often, the issue is not with your gardening skills but rather the plants around them. Understanding which vegetables grow well together and which can’t make a signifcant difference in your garden’s success.

Why Some Vegetables Don’t Grow Well Together

Not all plants are compatible. Some plants, when grown in proximity to each other, can have detrimental effects. This phenomenon is similar to companion planting, where certain plants thrive when grown with their ‘friends.’ Conversely, some plants can hinder each other’s growth due to competition for resources, chemical interactions, or susceptibility to the same pests and diseases.

Here’s why some vegetables dislike each other:

1. Competing for Nutrients and Resources: Plants with similar root systems often compete for the same nutrients and water. In a tightly packed veggie garden, this competition can become ferce, with one plant

potentially dominating and depriving others of essential nutrients. This imbalance can stunt the growth of less dominant plants.

2. Releasing Allelopathic Chemicals: Certain plants release chemicals into the soil that are toxic to other plants. This process, known as allelopathy, can severely impact the growth and health of neighbouring plants. These chemicals are not released intentionally but can have signifcant adverse effects.

3. Spreading Disease and Attracting Pests: Vegetables within the same family often attract similar pests and diseases. Planting them close together increases the risk of widespread infection, potentially damaging or destroying entire crops.

5 Vegetables That Don’t Grow Well Together

Potatoes and Tomatoes: Both potatoes and tomatoes belong to the nightshade family. Despite this familial connection, their differing growth cycles make them poor companions. Planting them together can lead to the transmission of diseases like blight, which can devastate

both crops. The diseases can strike at different times, increasing the risk of cross-infection and leading to stunted growth and reduced yields.

Beans and Onions: Onions have allelopathic properties, emitting a chemical called allicin. Allicin is benefcial for repelling pests but detrimental to beans. It kills urease bacteria, essential for beans to fx nitrogen in the soil. This disruption can signifcantly harm bean growth. Planting beans and onions together can lead to poor nitrogen levels in the soil, stunting the growth of your bean plants.

Fennel and Tomatoes: Fennel is a unique plant that doesn’t get along well with most vegetables. It is part of the brassica family and releases chemicals that inhibit the growth of nearby plants, particularly tomatoes. The impact on tomatoes can be severe, causing stunted growth and poor fruit production. To avoid this, it’s best to grow fennel in a separate container or pot away from your main veggie patch.

Pumpkin and Summer Squash: These two vegetables can crosspollinate, leading

to the production of less palatable fruit. Additionally, they share common pests and diseases. If one plant becomes infected, it can quickly spread to the other, potentially ruining both crops. To prevent cross-pollination and disease spread, keep these plants separated.

Broccoli and Tomatoes: Broccoli and tomatoes have different planting schedules, which can cause issues when they follow each other in the garden. Broccoli is typically planted earlier and can leave behind high levels of sulphur in the soil. This sulphur can stunt the growth of tomatoes planted afterward, resulting in smaller, less productive plants. Rotating crops and ensuring a proper planting schedule can help mitigate these issues.

Conclusion

A thriving vegetable garden requires more than just good soil and adequate water; it also demands careful planning regarding plant placement. By understanding the dynamics between different vegetables, you can prevent competition for nutrients, allelopathic reactions, and the spread of pests and diseases. Keep these combinations in mind to ensure your garden remains healthy and productive, allowing you to enjoy the fruits of your labour without unnecessary setbacks. Happy gardening!

In Memorian

BIDDLES, Peter Roger

Passed away 21st May 2024.

Late of Ballina, formerly of Sydney and Alstonville.

Aged 82 years.

Beloved husband of Ruth. Loving father of Adam, Sarah and Emma. Much loved Pa to Eloise, Joshua, Cooper, Luke, Piper, Isla, Imogen, Lucie, Alexandra and great-grandfather to Peyton.

Privately Cremated.

A memorial service for Peter will be held at a later date.

CHINDERAH (02)6674 3777

Death Notice

KNIGHT, ELAINE JOYCE

Passed away peacefully on Saturday May 11th, 2024. Aged 101 years.

Daughter of Lottie and Anthony Lee (both dec). Loved mother and mother-in-law of Robert & Sharon, Raymond, Delma, David & Julie. A much-loved nana, great nana and great great nana. Dear sister and sister-in-law of Douglas Lee (dec), Betty Carey (dec) and John & Marie Lee. In accordance with Elaine’s wishes a private funeral service has taken place.

2

2

50

5

WEATHER

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog inland. Slight chance of a shower. Light winds.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the south. High chance of showers near the Queensland border, slight chance elsewhere. Light winds.

Northern Tablelands District:

The chance of morning fog. Mostly sunny afternoon. Light winds. Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog. Slight chance of a shower near the Queensland border in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming northwest to northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning.

New South Wales:

Dry and mostly sunny, apart from the chance of showers in the far northeast. Areas of morning frost along the southern half of the ranges and inland. Patchy morning fog about the northern ranges and Hunter. Daytime temperatures near or slightly above average. East to northeast winds, tending northwest about the southern ranges and becoming fresh on the Alpine peaks later. Thursday. Showers developing across the south and west during the day and tending to areas of rain in the far west in the evening. The chance of showers in the far northeast. Mostly dry and partly cloudy elsewhere. Early frost possible on the northern and southern ranges. Patchy morning fog on the northern ranges. Daytime temperatures a little above average. Northeast to northwesterly winds, becoming fresh about the ranges and far west, and strong on the Alpine peaks.

Byron Coast: Winds: Southeasterly 10 to 15 knots turning easterly below 10 knots during the evening. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: South to southeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy.

Coffs Coast: Winds: Variable about 10 knots. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Southerly 1.5 metres. Weather: Mostly sunny. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Southeasterly 15 to 20 knots turning easterly 10 to 15 knots during the evening. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore north of Point Lookout. Swell: South to southeasterly below 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Fishing clubs and organisations are being encouraged to host their own ‘Gone Fishing Day’ events as part of the State-wide celebrations on Sunday, October 13, Bryan Van Der Walt, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Program Leader Recreational Fisheries, said today.

Clubs can now apply for a fshing package or a grant of up to $2,000 to host fshing activities such as casting and fshing workshops and information sessions as part of their event.

The fshing package consists of rod and reel sets, some giveaways/prizes and advisory information. Alternatively, clubs can apply for grants of up to $2,000 to purchase items such as fshing gear, bait, food and non-alcoholic drinks, equipment hire,

CASINO SOCIAL GOLF RESULTS

26-05-2024

After several weeks of no golf the club fnally got to play for the monthly medal which was won by Donald Hampson with a net score of 27 from Jeff Rankin with 33. The putting trophy was won by T.Hook with 12 putts and W.Jackson won the players draw. Nearest to pins: 8th, W.Jackson. 10th, D.Hampson. 11th, G.Shephard. 12th, 13th & 17th, T.Jenkins.14th,15th, 16th & 18th G.Randall. Next Sunday’s event

etc to run their local Gone Fishing Day event. Activities to restore fsh habitat, through replanting and/or weeding creek banks, on Gone Fishing Day are also eligible to apply.

“Gone Fishing Day is a fantastic opportunity to attract keen fshers to take to the water and share the benefts of this fun, healthy outdoor activity for everyone around the State, MrVan Der Walt said.

“Experienced fshers and newcomers can both participate on the day, sharing tips and experience, and help usher in the newest generation of young anglers.”

Applications for grants and fshing packages close on 8 July 2024.

Once again, DPI will be running six major events around NSW with a range of fun activities including learn to fsh sessions with experts,

casting competitions as well as lots of fshing giveaways, including fshing guides, fshing lures and other fshing gear.

Recreational fshing is a $3.4 billion industry that supports the equivalent of 14,000 full-time jobs around our state. It’s important to acknowledge this day and the positive impact this industry has on our economy and communities.

Gone Fishing Day is proudly supported by NSW DPI with funding from the NSW Recreational Fishing Trusts.

DPI event locations will be announced over the coming months.

Application forms and grant funding guidelines are available via the QR code.

Gone Fishing Day is run in collaboration with the Australian Recreational Fishing

sponsored by DIY

Home Timber & Hardware Casino is yet to be decided and visitors are welcome to play with hit off from 6-30am till 7-30am.

CASINO WOMENS BOWLS RESULTS

On Wednesday 24/5 we had our event for beef week, good day had by all.

Winners for the day were:

J. Carthew, S. Bryant & D. Skinner def K. Moore, J. Cooke & C. Haynes Runners up were: M. Jordan, N. Nugent

& L. James def R. Baker, N. Moran & R. Skirrey

Congratulations to winners on the other 2 rinks.

CHERRY STREET

CROQUET CLUB SPORTS RESULTS ASSOCIATION

CROQUET:

S.Hume P.Hume 13 d G.Drew 5

Club Championships

Handicap Singles: G.Porter 13 d P.Waters 8 RICOCHET

CROQUET:

N.Barnes M.Russell 16

B.Bill R.Poynting 13

N.Poynting 16 d

P.Bolte J.Doust 12

P.Waters 17 d

J.Hannigan 9

Club Championships: Div 2 Singles

J.Hannigan d G.Porter forfeit

Hand Singles P.Waters d G.Porter forfeit

GOLF CROQUET: Div 2 Club Singles

Championships:

Final: M.Russell 7 d

B.Wellings 2

Semi-fnals: M.Russell 7 d P.Bolte 6

B.Wellings 7 d J.Doust 4

Pauline Bolte, Joan Doust, Barbara Wellings,

Maurie Russell, Division 2 Championships.

CORAKI VETERANS GOLF RESULTS

THURSDAY 23/5/24

44 Golfers played on a fairly damp and heavy course Winner G Gibson 2nd B Kerrison, 3rd R Black, free game B Micheal, chicken/ball winners S McDonough, J Nilsson, D Knox snr,

Foundation.

“It doesn’t matter if you haven’t fshed before or if you’re the keenest of anglers, Gone Fishing Day is for everyone,” Mr Van Der Walt said.

“We are so fortunate here in NSW to have so many exceptional fshing locations, both inland and coastal, which are ranked among some of the best in the world.

“Gone Fishing Day is a great opportunity for people to get out on the water and take advantage of these terrifc locations.

“Mark your calendars for Gone Fishing Day, Sunday 13 October 2024.”

W Henwood, D Vagne, T Wood, B Collyer T Foster, T Doyle, A Parr, K Lloyd Nearest pins 3rd/12th B Kerrison, 6th/15th B Micheal.

This Thursday will be an 18 hole single stableford commencing with a shot gun start at 8.30am followed by our monthly barbque. With some more fne weather the golf course will be back to its usual great condition.

AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING

By Tim Howard

Grafton Ghosts try scoring wizard Dylan Collett has overturned a 2024 drought in style, touching down four times as his team romped to a 28-10 win over the Coffs Harbour Comets.

The Comets, languishing at the foot of the Group 2 Rugby League table, came to Frank McGuren Field, desperate for a win to open their account for the season.

The frst 20 minutes was an arm wrestle as the game swept from end to end, with both teams threatening to score, but unable to cross the line.

The Ghosts fnally broke through midway through the half, turning a stirring defensive effort into points.

The Comets were hammering the Ghosts line and were unlucky not to score, with last ditch Ghosts defence holding them up over the line twice in two

minutes.

A raking clearing kick from fullback Toby McIntosh turned into a brilliant 40-20, putting the Ghosts on attack inside the Coffs’ quarter.

The ball swung across the feld toward the left edge, where Collett loves to attack.

Just a few metres from the line, he ran onto a short pass from hooker Mason Graham and spun out of a tackle to put the ball down around 10 metres in from touch.

Halfback Cooper Woods converted to make the score 6-0 to the home team.

The Ghosts were in again 10 minutes later courtesy of a bullocking run from big prop Oliver Percy.

Running onto a short ball from lock Jordan Gallagher, Percy turned a routine hit up into points, dragging three defenders with him over the try line.

Woods converted again to give the Ghosts a

handy 12-0 lead heading into the break.

But the Comets were able to make a dent in the lead just before half time when they fnally were able to capitalise on a couple of Ghosts handling errors that gifted the visitors good feld position.

Attacking down the right edge, big centre Marty Ferguson brushed through some ineffectual tackles to score in the right corner.

The second half began in similar fashion to the frst, with both sides trying to assert themselves.

The Comets created several close calls close to the Ghosts line but a combination of stiff defence and poor attacking options denied them a chance to narrow the lead.

The scores remained at 12-4 until 15 minutes from time when Collett ran onto a sweetly timed pass from second rower Jake Martin, which put

him into the clear. He swerved inside the fullback and touched down just to the left of the uprights to give Woods the easiest shot at goal, which he converted.

Five minutes later Collett was in again, this time receiving a popped pass on the try line and virtually falling across the line to score.

Woods pushed his conversion to the right of the posts to give a 22-4 scoreline.

Collett showed his value in defence from the restart when Ferguson managed to tap back the short kick off.

The Ghosts skipper was the only player to show any urgency to dive on the bouncing ball.

The fnal minutes of the game became a free-forall as Coffs swept the ball downfeld and lost possession in the Ghosts quarter.

In turn the Ghosts counter attacked down the right side with

McIntosh breaking free. Two passes later Collett ran onto a pass and touched down under the posts. Woods kicked the goal to give the Ghosts a 28-4 lead with two minutes left on the clock.

The Comets were able to score a consolation try with Ferguson picking up his second try just before the siren sounded.

Curry nailed the sideline conversion to make the fnal score 28-10.

The lopsided score did not do justice to the effort Coffs Harbour made on the day.

They probably had equal feld position stats to the Ghosts, but found the Ghosts goal line defence more diffcult to break.

The Ghosts made marginally more chances, but were ruthless in taking them and this accounted for the comfortable scoreline in their favour.

On Saturday the South Grafton Rebels slumped

to their fourth loss in fve games, going down 26-14 in the grand fnal replay against Woolgoolga.

The Rebels started brilliantly and were leading the Seahorses 10-0 until they allowed Woolgoolga fullback Dane O’Hehir to score just before half time.

Big centre Shayde Perham scored early in the second half to level the scores at 10-10.

From there it was all Woolgoolga as half Tyler Murden, then Perham and O’Hehir scored tries, which Murden converted.

Rebels centre Nick McGrady’s try in the 62nd minute was the only Rebels score in the second half.

Next Sunday the Ghosts take on Woolgoolga at Solitary Islands Sports Ground Field 1 and the Rebels have the bye.

Ghosts captain coach Dylan Collett scored four of his team’s fve tries on Sunday against the Coffs Harbour Comets.

In line with the 2024 AIS Concussion and Brain Health Position Statement, tailored resources have been developed to assist coaches and support staff in identifying concussion symptoms and implementing effective treatment and ongoing management strategies. Here, Para-rowing coach James Loveday shares his experiences with concussion in sports.

As a coach, it is crucial to recognize when an athlete is not performing at their peak. Australia’s Paralympic Rowing Coach, James Loveday, emphasises that these observations are vital in detecting signs of concussion.

Loveday recalls a particular incident involving a young athlete who attended training shortly after being involved in a car accident. “He was a bit dazed initially, and we discussed whether he

should train that day. As the week progressed, it became evident he was struggling with the daily demands of training,” Loveday explained. The athlete exhibited diffculties with sun exposure and showed a noticeable decline in cognitive skills. “He was receiving physiotherapy for whiplash after someone rear-ended him, causing his head to jerk backward. Only when we considered the possibility of a concussion did we realize that was likely the issue,” Loveday noted.

Coaches, according to Loveday, observe

athletes both at their best and worst, enabling them to quickly identify when something is amiss. “This athlete, usually very charismatic, became unusually quiet, disengaged, and frequently sought rest between sessions. It was a stark change in behaviour,” Loveday remarked.

Upon confrming the concussion, the team promptly implemented a tailored management plan. “Once it was clear what we were dealing with, we transitioned to a gradual return-to-training protocol. We reduced

the intensity of workouts and coordinated with the athlete’s school to minimize screen time for about ten days until he could resume normal activities,” Loveday explained.

Refecting on the experience, Loveday advises that in cases of suspected concussion, particularly with para-athletes, consulting a doctor should be the frst step. “Medical consultation is crucial to determine the appropriate course of action, especially since managing concussions in para-rowing may require unique considerations,” he concluded.

For more information, visit the Concussion in Sport website.

The Coffs City United Lionesses surged to the top of the HIT105.5 North Coast Football Premier League with a commanding 4-1 victory over Sawtell at Toormina Oval on Saturday. With two goals each from Jordan Maddalena and Georgia Silvy, the Lionesses secured a win that propelled them to the league’s summit, placing them three points ahead of Urunga, who have played one match fewer. Maddalena was a constant threat as the centre forward. Her perfectly timed run pierced the Sawtell defense, and she calmly slotted the ball into the net.

Georgia Silvy

extended the lead with a stunning strike into the top corner of the net ten minutes later . In the men’s premier league, a determined Sawtell ended Woolgoolga’s six-match winning streak with a hardfought 0-0 draw. Both teams had several chances to score, but solid defending and goalkeeping heroics ensured the match remained goalless. Sawtell’s rise has been remarkable. After fnishing bottom of the table last year, they are now a force to be reckoned with, currently sitting in third place on the ladder behind league leaders Woolgoolga and second-placed Northern Storm.

James Loveday