The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 205

COUNCILLORS AND STAFF AT ODDS OVER FLOOD PLAIN DEVELOPMENT

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley Council has found itself offering conficting information to a State Government planning body meeting this week to deal with a 284-dwelling development in West Yamba.

A combination of red tape and delays in providing information to the Northern Region Planning Panel has meant council staff have provided a recommendation to the panel to approve the development.

But at the May 28 ordinary council meeting councillors voted 5-2 to not approve the development because of serious non-compliance issues detailed in an attachment to the report in the council business paper.

At the council meeting council’s director environment and planning Adam Cameron revealed council staff were required to submit the staff recommendation to the planning panel before councillors could see it.

This had led to the councillors seeing a staff assessment made 18 months ago, which included a long list of non-compliances.

By Samatha Elley Story P3 By Sarah Waters Story P4

Flooding in Shores Dr, Yamba, which trapped residents in their homes for day during the February/March 2022 fooding.

Councillors and staff at odds over food plain development

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley Council has found itself offering conficting information to a State Government planning body meeting this week to deal with a 284-dwelling development in West Yamba.

A combination of red tape and delays in providing information to the Northern Region Planning Panel has meant council staff have provided a recommendation to the panel to approve the development.

But at the May 28 ordinary council meeting councillors voted 5-2 to not approve the development because of serious non-compliance issues detailed in an attachment to the report in the council business paper.

At the council meeting council’s director environment and planning Adam Cameron revealed council staff were required to submit the staff recommendation to the planning panel before councillors could see it.

This had led to the councillors seeing a staff assessment made 18 months ago, which included a long list of non-compliances.

Mr Cameron said the staff had only submitted the most up to date assessment to the NRPP on the morning of the council meeting.

He said there was nothing to stop the council staff and councillors making differing submissions to the NRPP.

“An elected council may make a submission

on a development application to be determined by the panel up to seven days before the panel meeting and may speak to the to the submission at the public determination meeting,” Mr Cameron said.

The unusual regulations around planning panel operation created this situation.

When a development of regional signifcance comes to a planning panel, effectively council staff work for the planning panel and its rules forbid sharing that work, even with the councillors who effectively are their employers.

Mr Cameron confrmed this to the meeting.

“The council resolution and the offcer assessment report are two different things,” he said.

“The offcer assessment report is undertaken independent of the elected body in accordance with the planning panel operating procedures.”

Cr Greg Clancy moved the council make a submission to the NRPP when it met on June 11 to not support the 284-lot sub-division.

The applicant for the development is Garrard Building Pty Ltd acting for the owner, Kahuna No.1 Pty Ltd.

Cr Clancy said the submission to not approve was a “no brainer” due to the number and seriousness of the non-compliance issues raised in the staff’s preliminary assessment.

“These are serious non-compliances and omissions,” Cr Clancy

structure disempowered councillors and made them feel like they weren’t in a position to make a decision on these sort of developments.

Outside of council other groups were also preparing submission against the development, which has attracted 330 submission from the public.

Yamba Community Action Network was one of the groups making a submission, with its secretary Lynne Cairns addressing the panel.

Ahead of the June 11 hearing she said one of YambaCAN’s key concerns was providing adequate evacuation for residents during foods.

said.

“And I think the assessment briefng report which is available to us is what we have to take as our view of the planning issues in relation to this.

“We can’t see the report to the planning panel till after the planning panel.”

Cr Clancy then presented an extensive list of non-compliance issues, which were listed in Attachment A to the report to council.

The motion’s seconder, Cr Bill Day, said his concerns were the impacts on roads, parking and infrastructure and dramatic increases in population and numbers of motor vehicles using local roads.

Cr Karen Toms agreed the list looked damning, but said the staff report to the panel could well

contain measure the developer had taken to fx them.

“I feel that without actually knowing what the assessment is from our professional staff, that we are not prepared to support a motion without actually seeing how they’ve addressed those issues,” she said.

“And we can’t do that yet because that’s how it works with the planning panel.”

Cr Steve Pickering spoke in support of not approving the development.

He has been a critic of the NRPP “taking over” from council in planning matters and has put up a notice of motion calling for the NRPP structure to change to allow councillors to comment on matters before it.

After the meeting Cr Pickering said the current

“Evacuation plans rely on using Yamba Rd to get to the evacuation centre in Yamba Bolo and we know the road was cut for long periods during the February March 2022 fooding,” she said.

“And to get to Yamba Rd people would have to use Carrs Dr, Golding St and other roads that were also fooded for long periods.”

She said the amount of fll, up to three metres in some instances, meant homes built on these mounds became islands.

“People who get caught there or decide to stay will need to be supplied and it will mean extra work for SES and other emergency service carrying food or medical supplies or evacuating people.”

Greens MLC Sue Higginson will also make a submission to the panel and Dr Greg Clancy, will address the panel for the Clarence Environment Centre.

Flooding in Shores Dr, Yamba, which trapped residents in their homes for day during the February/March 2022 fooding.

Cr Greg Clancy moved successfully that the council make a submission to the Northern Region Planning Panel that it not approve a 284-lot subdivision in West Yamba, despite council staff making a submission to approve the development.

By Samantha Elley

On the corner of River and Cedar Streets stands a building that has been part of the fabric of Woodburn for many years and always a general store of some type.

Most recently, up until the 2022 foods it was the local IGA store.

Starting with pioneer, John Lang, who opened a small store on the southside of Woodburn, the Pedley Brothers took it over and replaced the old shop with a much larger store which opened in 1891.

It was two-storey and very light and airy.

Haberdashery, groceries, men’s boots and general drapery were downstairs and furniture and bedding upstairs.

Oscar Schulstad took over in 1917 and it became the Excelsior

A piece of history demolished

Store.

A few older residents in Woodburn would remember the store being Redwoods, as well.

Redwoods store was badly damaged in the 1945 cyclone and it was around this time the building was replaced for one that was all brick.

Owners of the building since 2002, Neale and Tania Hundy hope that its demolition will be a step in the right direction, since it was badly damaged in the 2022 foods.

“We have mixed feelings about the whole thing,” Tania said.

“One, it’s sad to see it being demolished as we have had lots of memories of the building and the changes.

“The other, is the future and where we go from here.”

The demolition almost happened last year in November, but is now a sure thing and while it is sad for the Hundys to see their memories go, and also sad to see a piece of Woodburn history demolished, there is always hope.

“Hopefully, at least, it will be a step in the right direction,” said Tania.

The timeframe for a new store, however, is up in the air.

“Our insurance company is AIG and we are still fghting over the water inundation as we speak.”

Demolition order

Corner of River and Cedar Streets

The Excelsior Store as displayed on the wall of the current building

Rare Encounter: Humpback Whales surprise fshermen in Tweed River

By Sarah Waters

What started as a typical morning of fshing on the bar in the Tweed River, ended in an unexpected surprise for Bryce Piper, 24, and Peter Berger, 37, last Tuesday morning.

The two keen fshermen, from Berger Houseboat Holidays, were coming back into the Tweed Marina at about 7am when two humpback whales came up behind their boat.

“They popped up probably about 10 meters behind us - we drifted in with them - at the entrance of the bar,” Bryce said.

“It was pretty crazy to be honest, it’s not something you can really appreciate unless you understand that whales don’t usually come into the river,” he said.

The whales, believed to be quite young in age, passed Jack Evans Boat Harbour, and went towards the frst bend in the Tweed River.

They hung around for

about 20 minutes, before making their way back out to sea.

Bryce said he has come across humpback whales plenty of times before while he was out fshing or diving in the ocean but had never seen them in the river.

“It was a beautiful morning, the water was crystal clear, sun was out - you honestly couldn’t get much better.

“Being there and seeing that was defnitely the best experience.

“They were just fapping around, it’s not

like they were stressed - I think it’s because the water quality at the moment is next level, so it doesn’t really surprise me that they came up the

caught bonito fsh in the river that morning, which is something that doesn’t usually happen.

Commercial fsherman

Joel Merchant was

river, but I couldn’t tell you why.

“It was close to high tide as well.”

Bryce said the sight of the whales made for a ‘perfect’ morning out on the water.

The two fshermen also

spotting for mullet when he also managed to flm the humpbacks.

Joel, who was born and bred in the Tweed, said it was the fourth time in about 25 years he has seen humpback whales go into the river.

“They were just adventuring around,”

Joel said.

“They were cruising along close, going in for a bit of a look and then cruising back out again, they were more curious.

“It was a lovely morning, and it was so calm - they just sort of cruised in like it was the ocean - they didn’t have to go through the surf breaks or anything,” he said.

Humpback whales pass Australia’s east coast between May and July after a summer of feeding on krill in Antarctic waters.

The whales migrate north to sub-tropical waters, near the Great Barrier Reef, where they give birth.

From SeptemberNovember they migrate back to the Antarctic.

Australia’s eastern coastline comes alive with the spectacular acrobatic displays of humpback whales during their annual migration of up to 10,000 kilometres.

Fishermen captured footage of two humpback whales that swam into the Tweed River

The entrance of the Tweed River which humpback whales came into last Tuesday morning

Peter Berger, 37, maintenance offcer at Berger Houseboat Holidays, saw two humpback whales in the Tweed River last week

Lismore MP Janelle Saffn welcomed home by massive python

By Sarah Waters

After a long day of politics, Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn came home to a rather unusual kind of ‘greeting party’ last Tuesday night.

A huge python was draped around the railing of her front porch where it had been residing for most of the day.

Ms Saffn said she was given prior warning that one of their house guests might be lingering about outside.

“I was on python alert as my husband Jim had told me,” Ms Saffn said.

“It is still interesting to walk up my fourteen stairs and know I shall be literally face to face with our python,” she said.

Ms Saffn has become quite accustomed to

pythons living in her home over the years. She had a resident python living at her home prior to the foods and wasn’t sure if it was still there afterwards -

only to open the front door and come face-toface with it.

“We have always had pythons and I believe there may be three… at least two in the ceiling.

“I am not going up the ladder to see.”

The pythons appear to be quite content with their residence at Ms Saffn’s house and fortunately for them she is happy to keep them on as guests.

“They never went near our cats and the dog is oblivious,” she said. Pythons are common throughout the eastern regions of NSW.

The most common snakes found in roof spaces are carpet pythons.

It is the perfect shelter for them, as they are sleeping where their food is.

Most people are happy to have snakes in their roof for free rodent control.

The huge carpet python that Lismore MP Janelle Saffn was greeted by when she arrived home last Tuesday

Lismore MP Janelle Saffn was relatively unfazed by her reptile guest

YambaCAN invited to address parliamentary committee

By Tim Howard

A community group at the centre of the opposition to housing development on the West Yamba food plain has been invited to give evidence to a NSW Parliamentary Committee later this month.

The invitation to Yamba Community Action Network from Portfolio Committee No. 7 – Planning and Environment represents a change of mind from the committee.

Earlier this year the committee had visited the NSW South Coast and Sydney, conducting site visits and taking submissions from residents.

But it decided to cut its North Coast commitments to just two days of site visits to areas between Port Macquarie and the Tweed.

Four members of the committee toured West Yamba and Maclean on May 31, where YambaCAN presented seven folders of documents, photographs and thumb drives containing Powerpoint presentations, videos and other evidence gathered during food events in the area.

YambaCAN chair Col Shephard said the change of heart from the

committee was welcome.

“We welcome the invitation of now being given the opportunity of a hearing,” he said.

“Two representatives will be providing evidence at the hearing for the inquiry into the planning system and the impacts of climate change on the environment and communities.

“The two representatives are Lynne Cairns, Secretary of Yamba CAN Inc, and Helen Tyas Tunggal, member of Yamba CAN Inc.”

The Portfolio Committee No. 7 – Planning and Environment invited

YambaCAN to give evidence at a hearing for the inquiry into the planning system and the impacts of climate change on the environment and communities in the Jubilee Room at NSW Parliament House, Sydney on Monday June 17 between 11am and 11.30am.

West Yamba residents were out in force for the committee site visit with at least 50 line streets waving banners and signs.

Mr Shephard said there needed to be a moratorium on development in the area while new evidence about the effects of

climate change on areas like West Yamba were investigated.

He said residents who lived through the fooding in February and March 2022 had noted and collected data on food heights and water fows which seemed to differ from the information planners relied on.

The committee’s terms of reference were established last year.

That Portfolio Committee 7 inquire into and report on how the planning system can best ensure that people and the natural and built environment are protected from climate change impacts and

changing landscapes, and in particular:

(a) developments proposed or approved:

(i) in food and fre prone areas or areas that have become more exposed to natural disasters as a result of climate change,

(ii) in areas that are vulnerable to rising sea levels, coastal erosion or drought conditions as a result of climate change, and

(iii) in areas that are threatened ecological communities or habitat for threatened species

(b) the adequacy of planning powers and planning bodies, particularly for local

councils, to review, amend or revoke development approvals, and consider the costs, that are identifed as placing people or the environment at risk as a consequence of:

(i) the cumulative impacts of development,

(ii) climate change and natural disasters,

(iii) biodiversity loss, and

(iii) rapidly changing social, economic and environmental circumstances

(c) short, medium and long term planning reforms that may be necessary to ensure that communities are able to mitigate and adapt to conditions caused by changing environmental and climatic conditions, as well as the community’s expectation and need for homes, schools, hospitals and infrastructure

(d) alternative regulatory options to increase residential dwelling capacity where anticipated growth areas are no longer deemed suitable, or where existing capacity has been diminished due to the effects of climate change

(e) listening to, and learning from, Aboriginal voices and experiences to better inform planning outcomes1

(f) any other related matters.

YambaCAN secretary Lynne Cairns, right and member Helen Tyas Tungal will present the group’s submission about the problems of food plain development to the NSW Parliament’s Portfolio 7 Committee in Sydney later this month.

By Tim Howard

The residents of Ulmarra did their best to ensure their beloved ferry sailed into history looking its absolute best for its last day of service on Monday.

The 74-year-old vessel, the latest to have crossed the Clarence River between Ulmarra and Southgate, made its last trip at 10.40pm on Monday, ending more than 130 years of history.

After making its last trip on Monday it’s scheduled to be towed to Harwood Marine where it will be decommissioned

Residents from Ulmarra and Southgate, who had fought the NSW Government since April to keep the ferry service, gathered on Sunday to dress up the vessel for its last two days of service.

Cr Steve Pickering, an Ulmarra businessman, has been one of the leading fgures in the battle to save the ferry service.

He brought two notices of motion to Clarence

Ferry departs looking its best

Valley Council, calling for the council to urge the State Government to ensure the ferry service continued.

Residents also raised a

petition which quickly attracted more than 6000 signatures which the Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, presented to State

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is shorter than the trip between Ulmarra and Southgate via Grafton.

“To hear this information is devastating and unbelievable.”

Cr Pickering said to take a service from regional NSW and then use the cost savings to buy and operate a similar service in Sydney was not right.

“It’s not right for a government that is supposed to represent all citizens to so blatantly and obviously favour and support those who live in Sydney over our farmers, tradies, families, and tourists,” he said.

“Come on Jenny Aitchison MP, what is going on here? This decision was made before the decision to cancel the Ulmarra service was made.”

Parliament.

While Cr Pickering was disappointed the government ignored the clear wishes of the community most galling was decision to maintain a ferry service in Sydney, which compared less than favourably with the Ulmarra service.

“The same day the Clarence Valley community discovered that while the Ulmarra ferry service had been cancelled, the same government took ownership and operational control of the Lower Portland Ferry,”

Cr Pickering said.

“The Lower Portland Ferry is in Sydney, transports fewer vehicles, costs more, and the equivalent trip by road

Cr Pickering said a Transport for NSW spokesperson had commented on local radio that the Portland service was different because the ferry in use was not near the end of its useful life and there was no sandbank issues.

“The thing about that is the government has known about those issues for a long time and done nothing to fx them,” he said.

“If they’d been serious about keeping the ferry service they would have had plans in place to replace it and deal with the silting problem.

“Instead they did nothing and just closed it down.”

Social media has also lit up with support for keeping the ferry service and many people taking time to have one last trip

on the ferry and sharing the experience.

Rumour the ferry was on the chopping block began to emerge early in the year and by aMarch Mr Williamson had raised a petition calling on the NSW Government to keep the ferry.

But before he could bring the petition to parliament the TfNSW director North Region Anna Zycki made the announcement the ferry was to close.

She said it had reached an age and condition where it was no longer ft to operate and ongoing river conditions also made the service untenable.

“The existing ferry has reached the end of its serviceable life,” she said.

“Because the existing ferry is now so old and requires so much repair, such a large restoration project would take about 18 months and cost an estimated $5 million, which is around a million dollars more than building a new car ferry.

“It’s effectively beyond repair, so this service would have been closed for that length of time anyway.”

Ms Zycki said silting on the southside of the river at Southgate was another problem for the service.

“The river is constantly changing course and there is nothing we can do to prevent the silt building up,” she said.

“We’ve dredged in the past, but it’s only a matter of a couple of weeks and the silt is back. It’s costly to do and has no lasting beneft.”

Ulmarra and Southgate residents have added some festive touches to the Ulmarra Ferry ofr its last day on Monday. The last crossing occurred at 10.40pm.

The ferry leaves to cross the river during its last day of service on Monday. Transport for NSW decommissioned the ferry on Monday, ending more than 130 years of river crossings at Ulmarra.

Ms Zycki said the number of cars carried on the ferry had plummeted since the opening of the second bridge at Grafton.

“When the new Balun Bindarray Bridge opened in Grafton in late 2019,

patronage of the Ulmarra ferry immediately dropped by 46%” Ms Zycki said.

“It was anticipated that demand for the ferry would decline once the new bridge opened so it would largely replace the

ferry service.

“The patronage hasn’t returned and the ferry – when river conditions allow it to operate – now carries on average about one vehicle per trip, costing taxpayers $22 for each vehicle journey.”

Diary of a food survivor

It is a bitter sweet moment to see a building that contains a lot of history, fnally become a victim to the 2022 foods.

This is the case for the Woodburn IGA on the corner of Cedar and River Streets which, at the time of writing, is ear-marked for demolition and, unless there has been a ‘stay of execution’ as was the case late last year, should be knocked down by the time you read this.

It’s bitter because the building represents many years of a general store on that site, although It was rebuilt after the 1945 cyclone. And its sweet, because it means progress is happening. Hopefully,

a rebuild and the appearance of another supermarket.

What I fnd ironic, however, is the owners of the building had insurance for storm and rainfall runoff and they are still arguing with the insurance company over payment.

I don’t know a lot about the insurance industry, but I would have thought, if you paid your premiums to cover yourself from a disaster and then it happened, then surely, you should get compensation.

I ran into a local resident I know at the coffee shop last week and he told me he was still living in a caravan and he had food insurance!!

Not many of us can afford food cover, living in a food affected area, but he was one of the few and still his house stands empty and unfxed.

I’m thinking that insurance is a waste of time for many people. We were lucky that our insurance company paid out on storm damage, but many of our neighbours were told they were getting nothing.

We will be sticking with our company, but I recommend if you were knocked back by your insurance company when you made a claim for what you were entitled to, then I’d be shopping around.

Little Steps

Organic Growth: Toby O’Grady’s journey from volunteer farmer to sustainable agriculture business owner

By Sarah Waters

The closest Toby O’Grady got to farming when he was young, was kicking a soccer ball behind the cane felds in Condong.

He wasn’t born into farming and didn’t really think about it until he travelled to Europe at the age of 20 and an opportunity to volunteer on a crop farm came up.

“2015 was when I frst discovered farming, and that was via traveling as a way to see the world but in a really affordable way by volunteering,” Toby said.

“I just happened to have some really good volunteers around me, who taught me about what agriculture is and how important it is.”

For two years Toby worked on farms in England, including orchards, egg production farms and mixed vegetable farms, which all focused on selling direct to customers.

When he arrived home, he sought job opportunities on farms in

NSW which focused on regenerative agriculture.

As his experience and passion in land rehabilitation and sustainable organic farming practices grew, he decided it was time to start his own farm.

In 2022, he put out a call to landowners in the Northern Rivers looking for land to lease for his ‘Ag-Venture’ which would produce certifed organic fruit and vegetables, he could sell.

“I always wanted to do it myself - put into practice the things that I’ve learnt and do different trials and

innovations.

“Even though we’ve been farming as a civilization for many thousands of years, we still haven’t fully fgured it out.

“I also wanted to get into the environmental side of it and the clean food side of it.”

Toby received more than 30 offers from landowners, but he decided to choose a three-acre plot of land at ‘Johny’s Garden’ in Duranbah to farm.

The area is known for its ferrosols (krasnozem) soil, which has favourable

agronomic properties.

Toby put together a strategy on how he could make an income, while practising new farming methods and focusing on research and development.

He drove up and down the coast talking to people who he thought might be interested in buying directly from him.

Then there were crop rotation plans, the purchasing of equipment, seed orders and an irrigation system that had to be set up.

Soil samples were tested to see what the soils were lacking for optimum plant and soil health.

“This was all then considered for how to implement growing organic vegetables,” Toby said.

“I ordered compost and organic amendments to be applied to the soil to correct mineral defciencies within the soil.

“Some areas we began planting in immediately, however most of the farm was planted out with a mixed species cover crop.”

Toby had a strong focus on producing nutrient-

dense organic produce and used compost and bio stimulants to increase biological activity in the soil.

These practices encourage vigorous root growth, nutrient uptake and weather-resilient growing conditions.

Cover cropping was used to help with soil fertility, weeds, pests, disease and biodiversity.

A few months after Toby started to work the land, he had his frst harvest of root vegetables, leafy greens and a range of herbs, which he supplied to local health shops.

He was encouraged to apply for the Mur’bah (Murwillumbah) Market, which he began to sell at each Wednesday, and it has since become the highlight of his week.

Fast forward two years later, and he now flls up his ute with about 50 crates of produce each week that he supplies to six local health shops.

Eventually, he plans to scale-up his business, but not until he has refned his farming practices and new methodologies.

In the meantime, he said his organic farming

business brings in a relatively comfortable income.

“I can do this because I have a great lease agreement that’s super affordable.

“The owners, who are retired farmers, are sentimental about keeping the land and the soil productive - producing quality food, supporting the community, dreams and livelihoods.

“I’d also like to note how important the supporters, buyers and retails shops, are in making this business possible.

“Supporting local and regenerative farms, makes for a more abundant and rich ecology - cleaner rivers, air and food.”

Despite access to land being inextricably linked to having a farm, Toby wants to show farming can be an accessible career even if you’re not born into it.

“You can do an apprenticeship for a plumber, you can go be an electrician, but there’s not really any clear path for farming - for frst generation farmerswhich is what I’ve found.

“I’d like to advocate for better opportunities in the future for new people who are keen to start farming, because there are a lot of people who are.”

You’ll fnd Toby and his organic produce, sold under the banner of Johny’s Garden at Murwillumbah Farmers Market each Wednesday.

You can follow more of his organic farming journey on Instagram @ ag_venture.

Toby is also available for available for home garden, small farm designs and consultations.

Toby O’Grady is a frst-generation farmer, who started his organic vegetable farm two years ago

You’ll fnd Toby selling his organic produce at the Murwillumbah Markets each Wednesday

Fit for the Long Haul: NHVR Urges Truck Drivers to Prioritize Well-Being This Men’s Health Week

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is urging truck drivers to prioritize their mental and physical health during Men’s Health Week.

NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto OAM highlighted the unique challenges truck drivers face, such as long hours on the road and extended periods away from family and friends.

“Men’s Health Week is a crucial time for truck drivers to refect on their well-being and make it a top priority,” Mr. Petroccitto said.

Truck drivers are vital to Australia’s logistics

network, but the demands of the industry can take a toll on their health. Long periods of sitting and the isolating nature of the job contribute to higher rates of mental and physical health issues among heavy vehicle drivers.

“It’s imperative for all truck drivers to remember that their mental and physical health comes frst,” Mr. Petroccitto emphasized. He advised drivers to manage their health by exercising, eating healthy foods, and getting enough rest and sleep.

The NHVR is calling

Application for Appointment of Board Members

Rileys Hill War Memorial Reserve Land Manager

on industry partners to support a culture that values the mental health of truck drivers

and reduces the stigma associated with seeking

help. Through the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative

program, the NHVR is enhancing mental health resources for truck drivers, including funding projects like OzHelp Foundation’s Health in Gear program.

OzHelp CEO Caroline Walsh noted the high risk of suicide among truck drivers, the second-highest industry group at risk in Australia. The Health in Gear program offers on-road presence, online support, information, and counselling services for transport and logistics workers.

“Truck drivers need to know that while the road may be long, they are

never alone,” Ms. Walsh said. OzHelp provides free counselling and 24/7 phone support for transport and logistics workers and their families at 1800 464 327. For more information on the NHVR’s initiatives and resources available for truck drivers, visit the NHVR website.

Ever wondered who is responsible for keeping Crown reserves operating?

Countless facilities like showgrounds, local halls and parks are run by Statutory Land Manager Boards, made up of people just like you. People who understand the need and have a desire to manage public land and assets for the beneft of the entire community.

Your role as a Board Member is voluntary, but the rewards of giving something back to the community are priceless.

We are looking for a good mix of people with a variety of skills, however, sound business and fnancial management skills and objective decisionmaking expertise would be a distinct advantage.

Don’t let this opportunity to do something for yourself and your community pass you by – contact us today.

The Rileys Hill War Memorial Reserve Land Manager manages the Reserve No. 540088 at Rileys Hill notifed on 3-May-1957 for War Memorial (Hall Site), Addition, Reserve No. 540085 at Rileys Hill notifed on 8-Jun-1951 for War Memorial (Hall Site). The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years.

Application for membership can be made via portal.crownland.nsw.gov.au

All applications are required to be lodged by 15 July 2024.

For further information contact Joe Endean on (02) 6642 9204 or go to reservemanager.crownland.nsw.gov.au LP2322

NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto OAM

Photo courtesy of NVHR Website.

Three FRNSW Veterans Honoured with Australian Fire Service Medal

Three distinguished veterans of Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) have been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) in recognition of their exceptional service and dedication to community safety. The AFSM, established in 1988, honours the distinguished service of frefghters, both permanent and volunteer, and is presented annually on the King’s Birthday by the GovernorGeneral, based on recommendations from Commonwealth and State ministers.

This year’s honourees are: Assistant Commissioner –Regional Operations, Cheryl Anne Steer

Assistant Commissioner Cheryl

Anne Steer began her career 28 years ago and has risen through the ranks to lead Regional Operations for FRNSW. Known for her operational excellence and effective management of major emergencies, she also mentors female frefghters and promotes values-based leadership. As cochair of the FRNSW Women’s Inclusive Network (WIN) and director of the Relief and Welfare Fund, she supports colleagues in need. Additionally, she contributes to documenting the history of female frefghters at the Museum of Fire.

Chief Superintendent –Capability Management, Paul Johnstone

Chief Superintendent Paul Johnstone has

dedicated 38 years to the fre service since joining the New South

Counter Terrorism. He has led signifcant improvements in medical

Wales Fire Brigades in 1985. His career includes roles in inner Sydney, Operational Staffng, and HAZMAT/

capabilities, frefghter training, and in-water rescue capabilities. His contributions extend to enhancing

policies, standards, and procedures, and he played a critical role in the response to the 2021/22 foods.

Captain, Paul James Dorin, Corrimal Fire Station

Captain Paul James Dorin joined FRNSW in 1993 as an On-Call frefghter. He is known for his commitment to community service and has developed numerous safety initiatives, including the Home Care Disability Fire Safety Program and the Smoke Alarm Action Day project. Beyond his duties, Captain Dorin is a talented cartoonist, using his art to raise funds for research into birth defects and childhood diseases such as cancer and epilepsy.

FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell praised

the award recipients for their exemplary service and dedication. “All three frefghters are widely recognized for their devotion to duty and their professional, thoughtful, and caring approach to their work,” Commissioner Fewtrell stated. “I’m personally very proud of them and they thoroughly deserve the recognition.”

Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib highlighted the professionalism and commitment of the honourees, stating, “Their professionalism consistently gets the job done. They have earned this recognition through courage and commitment, and I’m very pleased these frefghters are being honoured on the King’s Birthday in this way.”

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2024 JADA Judge Announced: Michelle Newton

Michelle Newton, Deputy Director at Artspace, Sydney, will judge Grafton Regional Gallery’s fagship drawing prize, the Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award (JADA), this year.

Michelle Newton has been the Deputy Director at Artspace since 2012, and in this time has cocommissioned and co-curated signifcant projects with artists and in partnership with

leading international institutions. She has recently written for and co-edited the monographs, Marco Fusinato: DESASTRES, Taloi Havini: Reclamation and Mel O’Callaghan: Centre of the Centre. Prior to joining Artspace, she worked with First Nations-led art centres Jilamara Arts and Crafts Association, Tiwi Islands (2006–09) and Jirrawun Arts on Gija Country (2009–11).

She was Associate Director for private gallery, Grantpirrie, Sydney (2011–12). She is currently Chair of Cementa, Inc. and on the Board of Create NSW Visual Arts Artform Advisory Board.

The 2024 JADA will be judged in the days prior to the JADA Offcial Opening Gala, on Friday 27 September.

Entries for the 2024 JADA are open until midnight, Sunday 30 June. Artists from across

Australia aged 18 and over and are invited to enter the award, with an acquisitive frst prize of $35,000 and $5,000 early career award.

Grafton Regional Gallery would like to thank the major sponsors of the 2024 JADA, the Friends of the Grafton Gallery.

For entry details, terms and conditions, and more information, visit graftongallery.nsw.gov. au.

14 projects share in $300,000 Community Building Partnership pool

STATE Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn (pictured) today (Friday, 7 June) announced that 14 projects had been successful under the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program for 2023.

Ms Saffn congratulated this round’s recipients and encouraged local organisations developing worthwhile projects to applicants to sign up for alerts about the CBP program so they are notifed when information about the next round is confrmed.

“Remember that there is only $300,000 to be spread across the entire electorate each year so please be realistic with the amount of funding sought,” Ms Saffn says.

“The Premier’s

Department has introduced strict probity measures around this grant program, including the overlay of independent assessment.”

Recipients of CBP funding for this 2023 round include:

Lismore City LGA: The Lismore Soup Kitchen Incorporated – towards improving amenities for volunteers and the hundreds of customers of The Good Pantry Lismore – new cool storage will be purchased and installed. -- $33,350.

Lismore Memorial Amateur Swimming Club Incorporated – towards capacity building of competitive swimming in Lismore –$19,353.

Northern NSW

Helicopter Rescue Service Limited –acquisition of night vision goggles (NVG) for its Lismore base –$18,970.

RSL LifeCare Limited – towards commissioning a local artist to install a mural

as a war memorial/ commemorative space at Chauvel Village Goonellabah, honouring Sir Harry Chauvel, of the Australian Lighthorse. -- $5,000.

Tenterfeld Shire LGA: Tenterfeld Chamber

of Tourism Industry & Business Incorporated – new Tenterfeld Visitors Information Centre – shopfront ftout, purchasing and installing free-standing equipment in a newly-leased building – $30,000.

Mingoola Hall Management Committee Incorporated – towards enhancing facilities at Mingoola Hall (fre exit side access to toilets to building code, installing a water tank) -- $29,439.

Kyogle LGA; Kyogle PA&H Society (Kyogle Show) –towards repairing the showground’s three arena surfaces to make them safe for competitors and exhibitors as the ground has become uneven and sloping. – $30,000.

– Kyogle Girl Guide Hall kitchen upgrade (purchase stainless steel materials to replace a kitchen which was destroyed by food –$5,500.

Tweed Shire LGA:

Uki Sporting Horse Association – towards all weather multi-purpose sand arena (to resurface arena with long-lasting road base and sand, providing a food-free, safe, all-weather, multi-purpose facility –$30,000.

Coolangatta-Wollumbin (Mount Warning) Dragon Boat Club Incorporated – Wollumbin Transport Vehicle (purchase a vehicle for towing dragon boats to training and regattas. Current 4WD vehicle is old and near the end of its life –$29,000.

Bonalbo and District Community Hall Association Incorporated – towards removal of ceiling tiles which pose a risk to volunteers and hall users, replacing them with new ones –$16,000.

Country Women’s Association of NSW – Tabulam Branch – towards supplying and installing a 4.5 kw grid connect solar system including panels, inverter, mounting rail and balance of system -- $7,700. The Girl Guides Association of NSW

Tweed Regional Museum – towards accessible drinking water for Tweed Regional Museum (provision of two accessible drinking fountains, indoor and outdoor, for visitors to the museum – $11,175.

Byron Shire LGA hinterland: Federal Community Children’s Centre Incorporated – outdoor blind installation and soft fall repair and extension – $34,513. Electorate-wide total -- $300,000.

Michelle Newton, Deputy Director, Artspace Sydney. Image courtesy of Artspace.

Norco, Australia’s oldest and largest dairy co-operative, celebrated a signifcant triumph at the 2024 National Dairy Industry Association of Australia (DIAA) Awards of Excellence.

The 100% farmerowned co-operative garnered 27 medals, including 10 Gold and 17 Silver, across various categories.

The DIAA hosts annual competitions that evaluate dairy products on technical merit, judged by industry experts based on favour, aroma, body, texture, condition, colour, and fnish. Norco’s Lactose Free Milk and REAL Iced Coffee Triple Shot achieved the highest scores in their respective categories, earning them Gold medals.

NORCO Co-op Wins Big at National DIAA Awards of Excellence

Gold Medal Highlights:

• Norco Lactose Free Full Cream and Lite Milks: Awarded Gold in the Modifed Milk category. These products are crafted with an enzyme that removes

Seniors Discounts

With infation effecting the lives of many, the seniors in our community are no exception. To help out with the cost of living, and to make sure that our seniors don’t go without, we have teamed up with some local businesses to offer a senior’s discount. Get in contact with these businesses today to fnd out more details.

lactose, catering to those with lactose intolerance while maintaining the taste and nutritional benefts of regular dairy milk.

• Norco REAL Iced Coffee Triple Shot: Awarded Gold in the

Flavoured Milk Coffee category, recognized for its delicious taste and energy-boosting properties.

Norco’s Chief Executive Offcer, Michael Hampson, expressed pride in

the co-operative’s achievements. “These awards honour our hardworking and dedicated farmers and demonstrate our commitment to producing fresh, great-tasting dairy.

From farm to factory, these accolades are a testament to our people’s continuous effort to maintain highquality standards across our range.”

Norco dairy farmer

Warren Gallagher highlighted the pride farmers feel in receiving such recognition. “Winning Champion at the Grand Dairy Awards for our Norco Lactose Free Milk and now excelling at the DIAA Awards makes us proud of our daily efforts. Partnering with a

dedicated processor like Norco shows the value of our hard work.”

Additional Gold Medals:

• Norco Pure Jersey Milk

• Norco Cream Top Non-Homogenised Full Cream Milk

• Norco Organic Milk

• Norco REAL Iced Chocolate (x2)

• Norco REAL Iced Strawberry

• Norco Sour Cream

To enter the DIAA Dairy Product Awards, all products must be manufactured in Australia, comply with the Dairy Products clause of the Food Standards Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code, and be commercially available.

Norco Lactose Free Full Cream and Lite Milks. Photo: Norco Website

A food restoration project on Rogerson Road, McKees Hill, took an unexpected turn when workers discovered a small colony of microbats living inside one of the stormwater drainage pipes slated for replacement.

The project, which involved replacing two large steel pipes with reinforced concrete pipes, revealed that at least half a dozen Southern Myotis Macropus, an intriguing bat species known for their fsh-catching abilities, had taken refuge in one of the pipes.

Lismore City Council’s staff quickly recognized the need for sensitivity and patience, postponing the project until the two juvenile bats were mature enough to fy and relocate safely.

This demonstrated the Council’s commitment to environmental protection and species conservation.

Alan Madden, Roads and Bridges Project Director for Flood Recovery at Lismore City Council, highlighted the importance of prioritizing environmental considerations in all food restoration projects.

“Temporarily

Contractors Prioritize Environmental Protection in Restoration Project BALLINA MP ANNOUNCES COMMUNITY FUNDING

Tamara Smith MP, Member for Ballina, today announced $300,000 in funding for a total of 14 projects to be delivered through the Community Building Partnership Program.

Local volunteer groups are the backbone of our community, Ms Smith said. “I am pleased that these groups can improve on their infrastructure and make life a little easier for their volunteers who do so much for our community.”

Ms Smith said the funds would deliver much-needed improvements to local facilities, including replacement of fencing and building a ramp at the Brunswick Heads branch of the Country Women’s Association, purchasing new equipment for OZfsh to improve the health of the Richmond River, a kitchen upgrade for Fripp oval in Ballina,

and better facilities for the disability therapy centre at Cerebral Palsy Alliance.

“This is exciting news for our community,” Ms Smith said. “This grassroots funding will directly help create a more resilient and inclusive local community with positive social, environmental, and recreational outcomes.

“I congratulate all the organisations that were successful in their applications and look forward to seeing how these projects make a real difference for people and the environment.”

The Member for Ballina has assisted more than 100 community organisations and delivered more than $3 million in grants through this program since she was frst elected in 2015.

The full list of successful projects in the Ballina electorate to the left.

halting construction to accommodate the microbats was an easy decision for us. We prioritize doing what’s right and ensuring the well-being of all creatures and the

environment impacted by our work,” Madden stated.

The contractors, Rugendyke and Bashforths, showcased exceptional patience and collaboration,

ensuring the best environmental outcome.

Their adaptability and creativity in handling this unexpected challenge were commendable.

The project team used thermal imaging

cameras to monitor the bats, confrming that the juveniles took fight just after sunset one May evening. Following this, the focus shifted to safely capturing and relocating the young bats to a nearby alternative roosting site.

To safeguard the bats, the project contractors sealed the hole in the steel pipe that served as their home and installed a timber bat box as an alternative roost. The bats quickly adapted to their new environment and are thriving.

Upon completion of the culvert work, plans are in place to relocate all bats, along with their bat box, into the newly installed concrete pipes, ensuring their continued safety and well-being.

This project underscores the importance of environmental protection in construction and highlights the efforts of Lismore City Council and its contractors in preserving local wildlife during essential infrastructure projects.

Ballina Electorate – Community Building Partnership program 2023 Successful Projects

July Exhibitions

Celebrating community, culture, and the environment.

Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) presents four new exhibitions this July. The 13th Annual Grace Cruice Memorial exhibition by BACCI (Ballina Arts & Crafts Centre) will be on alongside the 2023 SCU

continued relationships between Southern Cross University (SCU) and the Ballina Arts & Crafts Centre Inc. (BACCI), giving emerging and local artists the opportunity to exhibit in a professional gallery. The enduring creative call of our local environments will also be highlighted in two exhibitions that serve as a celebration and call to action.”

Scribbly Gums and Landforms | Dianne

Ingram Dianne uses mixed media to describe and translate her love of Australian gum trees and bushlands. Often working plein-air and employing her distinctive mark-making techniques to create abstractions of the landscape. Dianne imbues her work with ambiguity and unconventional juxtapositions that invite the viewer to create their own interpretations and experiences of our

Thomas Hannah’s Brainstorm details his time spent within the medical system after a diagnosis of epilepsy.

Graduate Award and two exhibitions that celebrate and show concerns for our local fora and fauna. Gallery Coordinator, Imbi Davidson, said “This July we are very excited to be presenting exhibitions that showcase our

This work explores the physical and mental effects of health issues with poignancy and humour, highlighting

Kitchener presents a glimpse into what the future may hold for fve Northern Rivers endangered or vulnerable animals. The focus is on fve threatened local animals, selected from fve major animal groups: the koala

13th Annual Grace Cruice Memorial Exhibition | BACCI Presented by the members of the Ballina Arts & Crafts Centre Inc. (BACCI), this exhibition is a tribute to founding member Grace Cruice, showcasing works created by BACCI members over the past year. BACCI is celebrating 26 years of continued activity and continues to promote a friendly meeting place for artists and craft people from Ballina and surrounding districts.

All exhibitions open Wednesday 26 June and continue until Sunday 18 August. The offcial exhibition launch will be held 5.30 – 7.30pm, Thursday 27 June. The Northern Rivers Community Gallery is located at 44 Cherry Street Ballina and is open Wednesday to Friday from 9am until

shared environment.

Brainstorm | Thomas Hannah (2023 SCU Graduate Award) The recipient of the 2023 SCU Graduate Award,

shared experiences between the artist and viewers.

Fallen | Jenny Kitchener Working with printmaking, Jenny

(marsupial); the jabiru (bird); Stephen’s banded snake (reptile); the green and golden bell frog (amphibian) and the birdwing butterfy (insect).

3pm and weekends from 9.30am until 1.00pm. For further information contact the Gallery on 02 6681 0530 or visit the website www. nrcgballina.com.au

Image Credit: Thomas Hannah, Self-Portrait #1, 2024

Image Credit: Jenny Kitchener, Tableau: fallen, 2023

Image Credit: Lesley Ryan, Crosswind, 2024

Image Credit: Dianne Ingram, From Meadow to Woodland, 2024

Byron Shire Council Unveils Inaugural Furry Friends Festival

Byron Shire Council is thrilled to introduce the Furry Friends Festival, a vibrant community event celebrating pets and their owners. Scheduled for Saturday, June 15th, at the Bangalow Showgrounds, this inaugural festival promises a delightful array of activities, expert advice on pet care, and opportunities for socializing—all while promoting responsible pet ownership and environmental stewardship.

Byron Shire Council is delighted to announce the launch of its

inaugural Furry Friends Festival, set to take place on Saturday, June 15th, at the picturesque Bangalow Showgrounds. From 9am to 12pm, pet lovers and their furry companions are invited to join in the festivities and partake in a day of fun, learning, and camaraderie.

“This is a fun community event to celebrate the Byron Shire’s furry friends and their owners while providing some practical advice and assistance with pet ownership,” remarked Ms. Sarah Nagel,

Council’s Manager of Public & Environmental Services, highlighting the festival’s dual focus on enjoyment and education.

The Furry Friends Festival boasts an exciting lineup of attractions, including complimentary face painting for children, enticing giveaways and stalls, a mouthwatering sausage sizzle, and a captivating photo booth for capturing cherished moments with pets. Attendees can also avail themselves of nail clipping services for their furry companions

and engage with local veterinarians for expert advice.

Moreover, the festival offers a unique opportunity for pet owners to learn from experienced dog trainers, with informative talks scheduled throughout the morning. “Bring your furry friends along for some nail clipping, talk to our local vets and sit in on dog trainer talks happening throughout the morning,” encouraged Ms. Nagel.

As a ‘dog on lead’ event, the Furry Friends Festival prioritizes the

safety and well-being of all attendees. “Having all our pets on leads will help everyone enjoy a safe space and the morning’s activities,” emphasized Ms. Nagel, underscoring the importance of responsible pet ownership.

In alignment with Council’s commitment to environmental conservation, the festival also aims to raise awareness of the Dogs in Public Places Strategy. “We’ll also be promoting our Dogs in Public Places Strategy, reminding people how

to fnd information on dog areas and why it’s important to stick to the rules to avoid fnes, but most importantly, to protect our beautiful environment and wildlife,” Ms. Nagel affrmed.

In essence, the Furry Friends Festival promises to be a delightful celebration of the bond between pets and their owners, fostering a sense of community spirit and promoting responsible pet ownership and environmental stewardship.

War Memorials Across NSW to Receive Funding

The NSW Government has announced funding for 19 war memorials across the state through Round 2 of the 2023/24 Community War Memorials Fund. A total of $150,000 has been allocated to support projects that preserve and enhance these signifcant community landmarks.

Funding Details

This round saw 28 applications from 23 Local Government Areas, with successful applicants coming from 16 Local Government Areas and representing 13 electorates. The funded projects span the state, from Bombala in the far south to Lake Cargelligo in the west, and McKees Hill in the far north.

Key highlights include:

• Bombala RSL sub-Branch: Awarded $10,000 for a condition assessment of the Bombala War Memorial to identify necessary conservation works.

• Blackheath War Memorial Arch: Also receiving funds for vital conservation efforts.

The Community War Memorials Fund aims to ensure that local war memorials remain well-maintained and continue to serve as places of refection and

remembrance.

Ministerial Comments Minister for Veterans, David Harris, expressed pride in the initiative, emphasizing the importance of preserving these historical sites.

“It is wonderful to announce this funding, which will be used for important projects around the state. Our communities are proud of their military history, and local war memorials are a vital part of our culture enabling us to refect on over 100 years of our veterans’ service and sacrifce.

A total of $150,496.65 was awarded to councils, RSL sub-Branches, and community groups, with grants ranging from $2,000 to $15,000 to fund conservation projects in 13 state electorates in both metropolitan and regional areas. I encourage all communities to review the status of their local war memorials and to apply for funding for any restoration work that is needed.”

Community Responses

Mr. Vern Carmody, Honorary Secretary of the Bombala RSL sub-Branch, expressed gratitude for the grant which will aid in the preservation of the

Bombala War Memorial.

“Thank you to the NSW Government for this grant for the heritage assessment of our wonderful war memorial at Bombala. This will assist us to attain an assessment of the repairs and conservation required for this historical cenotaph that was erected for the citizens of Bombala in 1922. The memorial is a centrepiece of the Dawn

Service and Veterans’ March every Anzac Day, and also used for Remembrance Day activities. Bombala RSL sub-Branch would also like to thank the staff of the Snowy-Monaro Regional Council who assisted us in the preparation of the grant application.”

Dr. Rosemary Dillon, CEO of Blue Mountains City Council, highlighted the cultural and historical

signifcance of local war memorials.

“Local war memorials are central features of our towns and villages, and they are precious to us all. They pay respect to those who put their country and their fellow servicemen and women before them. They are an ode to those who fought so we can have the freedoms we take for granted today. Erected around 1929,

the Blackheath War Memorial contains 76 names of local men who served overseas in the First World War, including six who died on active service. This funding will go towards restoration works at Blackheath War Memorial, which will help with the protection and conservation of the memorial for years to come.”

Next Steps

Round 1 of the 2024/25 Community War Memorials Fund is currently open and will close on 24 July 2024. Communities are encouraged to review their local war memorials and apply for funding to address any conservation needs. For more information and to apply for funding, visit the NSW Veterans Affairs website.

Conclusion

The NSW Government’s commitment to funding war memorials underscores the importance of preserving these sites as part of Australia’s cultural heritage. By providing fnancial support for their upkeep, the government ensures that future generations can continue to honour and remember the sacrifces made by veterans.

Soldiers to March into Lismore: Freedom of Entry Parade

Soldiers from the esteemed 41st Battalion, Royal New South Wales Regiment, based in Lismore, are set to perform a stirring Freedom of Entry Parade into the heart of the Lismore CBD on Saturday, June 22nd, 2024.

Led by the commanding offcer, Lieutenant Colonel Danial Healy, the ceremonial parade will feature up to 200 soldiers from the Northern Rivers region, accompanied by a military marching band. The event will commence at 1:00 pm on Magellan Street, proceeding through the city streets before concluding at Memorial Gardens on Molesworth Street around 2:00 pm.

This symbolic

Time

procession will see the soldiers donning their full regalia, showcasing the esteemed traditions of the battalion.

Superintendent Scott Tanner, the Richmond PD District commander, and Mayor of Lismore, Councillor Steve Krieg, will formally challenge the soldiers’ right of entry into the city as they halt along the route.

Lieutenant Colonel Healy emphasized the signifcance of exercising the battalion’s Freedom of Entry, underscoring the close ties between the soldiers and the local community. He highlighted the battalion’s pivotal role in the response to the 2022 foods, reaffrming their commitment to serving the community.

The Freedom of Entry Parade holds historical signifcance, rooted in military tradition and medieval history. It represents the highest honour bestowed upon the Australian Defence Force by a city, symbolizing the enduring bond between the military and the local community.

The parade not only serves as a ceremonial spectacle but also as an opportunity for the soldiers to deepen their connections with the City of Lismore. As a prelude to the lantern parade, this event promises to be a captivating display of unity and respect, commemorating the rich heritage of the 41st Battalion.

to Enter the 2024 Lismore Business Excellence Awards

Enter the 2024 Lismore Business Excellence

Awards

The 2024 Lismore Business Excellence

Awards are now open, inviting businesses within the 2480 postcode to showcase their achievements and contributions to the local economy.

Organized by Business Lismore, also known as the Lismore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the awards aim to recognize and honour outstanding business achievements.

These awards celebrate businesses that have persevered through challenges, embraced opportunities, and contributed to the growth and prosperity of Lismore.

Why Enter?

Recognition: Gain acknowledgment for your hard work and achievements.

Networking: Connect with other business leaders.

Promotion: Increase your business’s visibility.

Validation: Validate your strategies and operations.

Categories

There are 23 award categories covering a wide range of industries, ensuring every type of business has the opportunity to be recognized. Categories include:

• Retail and Personal Services

• Trade, Construction & Manufacturing

• Business & Professional Services

• Health, Care & Wellness Industries

• Agriculture & Primary Industries

• Tourism, Recreation and Visitor

Experience

Event Details

Date: 10 August 2024

Location: Lismore Turf

Club

How to Enter

To enter, visit the Business Lismore website https:// lismorechamber.com.au/ for application details and submission guidelines.

Final Thoughts

The Lismore Business Excellence Awards offer a platform for businesses to gain the recognition they deserve and contribute to the overall vibrancy and economic health of Lismore. Business Lismore encourages all eligible businesses, regardless of size, to participate and celebrate the collective success of the Lismore business community.

MAX TO THE MAX Artist Showcase

BRUNSWICK PICTURE HOUSE

SATURDAY 29 JUNE at 7pm

SUNDAY 30 JUNE at 4pm

My Dream is to be Fabulous’ - Max McAuley

The Fabulous Max McAuley is heading to the iconic Brunswick Picture House for two great shows on 29 and 30 June.

Showcasing the many talents – and faces – of Max McAuley, Max to the Max is a fabulous celebration of Art, Creativity, Diversity and Life. Max will take you on a journey from tears of laughter to tears of deep joy and back again as you watch him metamorphose in front of your eyes from Comedian to Drag Queen – with several stops along the way…….

A collaboration with Choreographer, Performer and Producer Ché Pritchard, Max’s One Man Show is the result of months of work based on the foundations of inclusive practice and mutual respect. These two talented artists have shared all their wild ideas and creative brilliance to curate a show that is unique, extraordinary, surprising and delightful.

‘Hello beautiful! Hang on, I mean Hello, I’m beautiful! I’m Max!’ –Max McAuley

Enjoy some time in the shady courtyard of the beautiful Brunswick Picture House pre and post show to browse a gallery of Max’s handcrafted ceramics and breathtaking photography inspired by nature and created with love.

Max is a Northern Rivers local who grew up in Myocum and now lives in Ballina. A young man with Down syndrome, Max has been a principal dancer with Sprung Dance Theatre since its inception nearly 11 years ago. Max to the Max is his frst work as an independent artist and has the added challenge of being a One Man Show.

The creative process has thrown up a number of challenges that Max & Ché have worked together to overcome. There will be a brief Q&A after the show offering the audience an opportunity to learn more about how the work was created and the outcomes achieved.

The result is an outstanding achievement and a feast for the eyes. Be prepared for anything and enjoy every minute as Max invites the audience to join him on his creative journey. Max to the Max offers something for everyone who is a lover of art and entertainment at its best.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW https://brunswickpicturehouse.com/max-max-29-30-jun/

For more info please contact Alex McAuley 2481gogs@gmail.com 0427 270 420 Visit Max’s website https://www.maxmcauley.com.au/ Follow Max on Insta @maxmcauley_

Book

Ballina Shire Celebrates Multiple Finalists in the 2024 North Coast Tourism Awards

When secretive big business meets the Aussie outback

Title: The Year of the Roo

Author: Jeff Townsend

Price: $22.00

Publisher: Authoraide

Publications By Samantha Elley

Zi is in a world of trouble.

As a young girl from China, she has been shipped over to the property of some large landowners in a faraway country, where she knows no-one, as a “comfort girl”. Her days are spent entertaining Chinese businessmen who have own over to gamble and fool around with the girls provided for them. But Zi has a plan to escape.

Rueben, better known as Roo, due to his

Ballina Shire Council is delighted to announce that several local tourism businesses and initiatives have been named fnalists in the prestigious 2024 North Coast Tourism Awards. These awards acknowledge growth, entrepreneurship, and commend the success of tourism businesses throughout the North Coast Destination Network region.

Ballina Visitor Information Centre has been nominated for Excellence in Innovation, Excellence in Tourism Services, and Outstanding Young Tourism Business Leader, highlighting the centre’s innovative approaches, exemplary service standards, and the outstanding contributions to our local community.

occupation of collecting kangaroo skins and meat for commercial purposes, has seen his fair share of the world. He now indulges his interests by living in a small shack in outback Australia and earning a living o the back of one of our national emblems.

A er a routine day collecting his quota, he heads to the Stonehenge pub, the local watering hole, and is about to encounter someone who will turn his life upside down. It will involve the secrets of a large, nearby landholding being ‘blown apart’ for all the world to see. But it will come at a cost.

Je Townsend is a local Casino writer and has published a swag of other books, that tell thrilling tales from all around the world. e Year of the Roo is no exception.

You can order your copy of e Year of the Roo from amazon.com. au

Lennox Head Cultural Centre has been recognised for Event Venue of the Year, a category that celebrates venues excelling in business events, conferences, music events, and leisure events.

Ballina Contemporary Art Market (Northern Rivers Community

Gallery) is a fnalist for Festival/Event of the Year, a category honouring events that signifcantly enhance the visitor experience and contribute to the local cultural landscape. We are equally proud to highlight the achievements of operators within our region. Sugar Beach Ranch in South Ballina has earned a nomination for Excellence in Wellness Tourism, recognising their unique and compelling visitor experiences focused on wellness. Bonito Peruvian Eatery in Wollongbar is a fnalist for Excellence in Food

Tourism, celebrating their outstanding culinary excellence and signifcant contribution to the region’s gastronomic appeal.

Taking part in these respected awards is a rewarding experience for businesses. It gives them a chance to think about what has made them successful—like their goals, strategies, and visions. Being nominated and shortlisted for these awards allows operators refect on their journey, helping them gain valuable insights to continue their growth and secure their future.

“We are incredibly proud of our local

fnalists,” said Mayor Sharon Cadwallader.

“Their hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit have not only elevated their own businesses but also enhanced the overall appeal of Ballina Shire as a premier tourist destination. We wish them all the best in the upcoming awards.”

The winners will be announced at an Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner on 1 August 2024 at Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges.

Tickets are available at https://events.humanitix. com/2024-north-coasttourism-symposium-andgala-awards-dinner

Free Youth Empowerment Workshop to Upskill and Inspire

Are you aged 14 to 24 or know someone who is?

Byron Shire Council is offering a free two-day Youth Empowerment workshop on the last weekend of June at Federal Hall. Event Details

• Date: Saturday, June 29, and Sunday, June 30

• Time: 10 AM to 4 PM both days

• Location: Federal Hall

• Cost: Free How to Participate Book your free ticket through the Council’s What’s On page by scanning the QR code below.

Workshop Objectives Designed to address the impacts of recent foods on young people

in Byron Shire, this workshop aims to:

• Inspire and support wellbeing

• Strengthen interpersonal skills

• Build tools for resilience and leadership Program Highlights Byron Shire Mayor, Michael Lyon, encourages participation, stating, “This is a wonderful opportunity for young people to build their interpersonal skills and mental resilience, whether it’s dealing with foods, natural disasters, or everyday life.”

Thanks to NSW and Australian Government Disaster Funding Arrangements, this valuable training, worth hundreds of dollars per

participant, is offered free of charge.

Workshop Activities

Participants will:

• Have their voices heard and valued

• Meet others with similar experiences

• Explore personal passions and purpose

• Recover well and develop leadership skills

Facilitators and Guest

Speakers

The workshop will be facilitated by the Joyality Collective’s Shamila Millard, along with youth leaders Audrey O’Donnell Par, Saorise Chu, and Byron Shire Council’s Recovery Offcer Zali Spinner.

Special guest Sophie Wilksch, winner of the Resilient Australia

Mental Health and Wellbeing Award, will also speak.

Additional Information

• Catering: Delicious local food provided

• Methodology: Joyality uses applied ecopsychology to strengthen connections to self, community, and nature.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity for free wellbeing support and training.

Get to work with Kubota’s rugged RTV-X900W.

Powered by a reliable Kubota 21.6HP, 3 cylinder diesel engine, the RTVX900W is complimented with a smooth VHT-X transmission, strong steel frame, independent rear suspension and worksite tyres. While it may be tough and rugged, the RTV doesn’t skimp on luxury, featuring more leg room, deluxe split-bench seating, digital panel and additional storage, providing an incredibly comfortable ride for those long days out on site.

How about your doubts…by

Nigel Dawe

LIKE the most versatile of herbs in any kitchen, doubt when used too sparingly, disappears without a trace in any dish – to the point it may as well not be included at all; but equally, it becomes offensively present when it is applied without measure or restraint.

Relatedly, the ground-breaking French physicist, Henri Poincare once said, “To doubt everything, or, to believe everything, are two equally convenient solutions; both dispense with the necessity of reflection.” Thus, occupying the somewhat sane, or sensible middleground of belief by way of sound reflection, is perhaps as rare a trait today as it ever was.

I’ve often thought how Doubting Thomas, who was one of Jesus’ 12 apostles, has perennially copped the rawest of reputational deals. Having merely expressed a healthy degree of doubt that such a thing as someone returning from the dead, was at least questionable, if not worthy of further inspection, rather than accepting it at squinting face value.

The English writer, W. H. Auden once noted, “The basic stimulus to the intelligence is doubt, a feeling that the meaning of an experience is not self-evident.”

Alternately, when things are accepted as self-evident or beyond questioning, you’ve drifted into the domain of enforced, albeit inflexible thinking. Or as Jerry Saltz once discerned, “Certainty sees things in restrictive, protective, aggressive ways, and thus isn’t seeing at all.”

Interestingly, the origin of the word ‘doubt’ stems from the Latin term ‘dubitare’, which means to hesitate or to waver in opinion. It is

Casino Truck Show to Auction Custom-Made Bar for Charity

also derived from the ancient root word ‘duo’, meaning ‘two’, and implies having to choose between two things.

The inherent duplicity of doubt, as a concept and word is captured in other languages also.

The German word for doubt is ‘zweifeln’; ‘zwei’ meaning ‘two’ and ‘feln’, being the German word for ‘rock’, albeit something potentially very hard and firm.

Even were we to take the most cursory look back at history, one defining theme that has been sadly consistent is the observation of Peter Ustinov, who once very succinctly said, “Beliefs are what divide people. Doubt unites them.”

When one’s beliefs lead to the killing and harming others, then that system of belief grossly morphs into something quite opposite to what it is believed to be.

Having read each of the world’s revered scriptures I am in no way rubbishing religion, because I think at its core: they each represent humanity’s urge, albeit purest inclination to stand on our tippy-toes and reach for the stars. There are an estimated 4,000 or so religions in the world, none of which are really any more ‘allencompassing’ than the rest, but each have their morsels of truth.

Fittingly, Bertrand Russell once sanely suggested, “I believe that the main object of education should be to encourage the young to question and to doubt those things which have been taken for granted. What is important is independence of mind. What is bad in education is the unwillingness to permit students to challenge those views which are accepted and those people who are in power.”

The North Coast Petroleum Casino Truck Show organizing committee is thrilled to announce the auction of a custom-made bar to raise funds for charity.

Generously donated by Queensland-based Moore Trailers, the 2.4m x 2.4m bar is crafted from steel with mirror stainless ends, designed to resemble the rear end of a trailer. Valued at $6,500, this versatile bar is perfect for entertaining and recreational use.

Enhancing the auction, Engel Australia has contributed a 95-litre upright fridge valued at $1,699, ensuring this auction is a highlight of the event.

The auction will take place on Saturday, 3 August, at the Mafeking

Lamp roundabout at 2:45 pm, just before the trophy presentation. The Casino Truck Show extends gratitude to Moore Trailers’ Scott Gollan and Engel Australia’s Jason Dwyer for their support.

For 2024, men’s health charity Movember has been chosen as the Casino Truck Show charity partner. Movember, a leading men’s health organization, focuses on mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. Since 2003, Movember has funded over 12,500 projects, engaging more than fve million participants worldwide.

In 2023, the Casino Truck Show donated

$10,000 to local charities, including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Casino Soup Kitchen, and Jumbunna Community Preschool.

Mark your calendars for the 2024 North Coast Petroleum Casino Truck Show, set to take place in the Casino CBD on Saturday, 3 August. This must-attend event for truck enthusiasts will showcase innovation, performance, and community spirit.

The festivities kick off with the street parade at 10 am, followed by the trophy presentation at 3 pm. Entertainment will feature performances by Mossy Rocks and the Tony Q Band on two stages, along with kid-friendly activities like amusement rides and

face painting. Exhibitors will display industryrelated products and services.

The event will culminate with a thrilling bull ride by J&J Rodeo under the new arena at the Casino Showground. Online registrations open on Monday, 1 July, with the entry fee remaining at $30 per participant. For more information, visit the Casino Truck Show website.

Do You Support an Extension to the Lease of the Kingscliff Temporary Housing Village?

Council is seeking community feedback on a proposal to extend the lease on parkland at Kingscliff to accommodate the temporary housing pod for an additional six months. The NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) has requested a six-month extension to the temporary village lease at Elrond Drive, Kingscliff, extending it to December 2025.

The extension would provide additional time for the RA and Northern Rivers Housing (NRH) to support residents into long-term housing and to allow for the decommissioning of the pods during this extension period.

Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry emphasized the importance of this extension, stating, “There are currently more than 450 households living in 11 temporary housing sites across the region, and a signifcant waitlist

of people still seeking housing support.”

“Kingscliff’s temporary housing village has 31 self-contained housing units which provide a safe and secure home to more than 60 people affected by the 2022 foods. Some residents are waiting for their homes to be rebuilt, while others need to fnd an affordable rental property,” Cr Cherry added.

While the Council supports this request for

a six-month extension, it seeks input from local residents to understand their views on the request before making a fnal decision.

Council owns the land at 99 Elrond Drive, where the Kingscliff temporary housing village is located. In June 2022, Council entered into a three-year lease of the property with Resilience NSW, now known as the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA). The

lease was established for the construction, maintenance, and operation of temporary housing and is set to expire on 16 June 2025. The temporary housing villages were originally intended to provide up to two years of accommodation for displaced households as a result of the 2022 foods, with the remaining lease period allocated for site restoration. However, due to widespread

housing stress and contractor shortages in the region, residents of the temporary housing village face signifcant obstacles to returning home or securing alternative stable housing.

In November 2023, Council received a request from the NSW RA to extend the lease for an additional two years until June 2027. Following this request, a meeting was hosted by the NSW RA and Council with neighbouring residents in February 2024.

During this meeting, the NSW RA indicated the request to extend the lease for two more years (until 2027) had been withdrawn.

In May 2024, Council received a new request from the NSW RA to extend the lease for an additional six months until 31 December 2025. At Council’s meeting on 16 May, it was resolved to agree to

this extension, subject to public notifcation and consultation with residents of the pod village and the wider community. Additionally, it was resolved to consult with the community to determine the future use of the space. This consultation will take place separately before the end of the lease in December next year. Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on the extension of the lease before 5 pm on Wednesday, 3 July 2024. Council will consider all submissions before deciding whether to proceed with the extension.

Have your say online at yoursaytweed.com. au/99ElrondDrive, email tsc@tweed. nsw.gov.au, or write to the General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816, Murwillumbah, NSW 2484.

The temporary housing pods at 99 Elrond Drive, Kingscliff. Council is seeking community feedback on the extension of the lease by 6 months.

EPA Working with Community after PFAS Found in Mullumbimby

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is actively engaging with residents in the Mullumbimby area following the detection of PFAS in groundwater.

In collaboration with Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW), the EPA conducted a door knock of 12 properties southwest of the fre station yesterday (Monday).

This week, EPA staff will expand their efforts, door knocking around 68 properties as a precautionary measure to gather more information about groundwater usage in the area.

EPA Director of Regulatory Operations, David Gathercole, assured residents that there is no immediate health risk since all nearby properties are connected to town water, which remains safe for consumption.

“The town water is safe to drink, but residents using groundwater should take precautions to limit possible exposure until further testing is completed,” Mr. Gathercole stated.

Precautionary measures include:

• Avoid using groundwater, bore

Annual Trout Fishing Closure Commences After June Long Weekend

Recreational fshers are reminded that the annual fshing closure in trout streams and rivers across NSW is in place from Tuesday, 11 June 2024.

NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Senior Fisheries Manager for Fish Stocking and Enhancement, Matthew McLellan, stated that the annual closure allows salmonid species to breed uninterrupted during their spawning run.

“The four-month closure ensures we protect our fshing assets for future seasons,” Mr. McLellan said.

Fishing During the Closure

water, or surface water for drinking, cooking, or personal hygiene.

• Avoid eating homegrown food produced using groundwater.

• Avoid swallowing groundwater and flling swimming pools with groundwater.

“We understand residents may have questions and concerns and want to provide them with helpful information and advice. We’ll be asking them about their groundwater use and sampling will be offered to residents in the area of the door knock,” Mr. Gathercole said.

This sampling will help the EPA better understand PFAS presence in the area.

The good news is that no PFAS has been detected in local creeks or the Brunswick River, allowing recreational activities such as boating, fshing, canoeing, and swimming to continue safely.

The EPA will keep the community informed as sampling continues. Residents can contact the EPA via the Environment Line at 131 555 or email info@epa.nsw. gov.au.

During this time, recreational fshers can still enjoy fshing at popular trout dams across NSW such as:

• Lake Jindabyne and Eucumbene Dam in the Snowy Mountains

• Oberon Dam near Bathurst

• Talbingo Dam near Tumut

• Malpas Dam near Armidale

Fishers can also enjoy quality angling in the Macquarie River (excluding tributaries above its junction with, and including, Lewis Ponds Creek) and the Turon River and tributaries (below the Upper Turon Road crossing).

The fshing season for trout and salmon in trout rivers and streams will re-open on Saturday, 5 October 2024, coinciding

with the start of the October long weekend.

Trout Fishing Rules

Detailed information on trout fshing rules can be found on the DPI website, NSW DPI FishSMART app, and the NSW Freshwater Fishing Guide, which is available from NSW DPI Fisheries offces and most bait and tackle stores.

Compliance and Regulations

NSW DPI Director Fisheries Compliance, Dr. Andrew Moriarty,

emphasized that it is an offence to fsh in trout streams during the closed season.

“DPI Fisheries Offcers will be patrolling the State’s inland waterways throughout the trout closure period to ensure compliance,” Dr. Moriarty said.

Fishers heading to any trout dams this winter are reminded that they must have a current NSW recreational fshing fee receipt (fshing licence) on them at all times while fshing.

A combined bag limit of fve and a size limit of 25 cm applies to trout or salmon in all trout dams, except in artifcial fy and lure dams where the bag limit is two.

Reporting Illegal Fishing Activity

Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected illegal fshing activity to the Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536 or via the NSW DPI website https://fal.cn/3fMUz

Council builds prosperity and bridges

Kyogle Council has been growing the prosperity of the local government area while completing a once-in-a-lifetime bridge building program, Kyogle Council Mayor Kylie Webster said today.

“As of today, Kyogle Council has replaced 89 bridges in three years, and physically built 81 new bridges,” Cr Webster said.

“That equates to almost three new bridges built every month.

“That is a truly amazing effort and one which the whole Council is incredibly proud of. It’s even more amazing when you consider that our staff have simultaneously been working to recover from the catastrophic fooding which occurred in 2022.

“I don’t know of another small rural council which could

have achieved what this council has achieved.

“We are always saying that Kyogle Council punches above its weight, and this is proof of that.”

Council received $40.419 million through the State Government’s Fixing Country Bridges (FCB) Program to partfund the replacement of 77 of the bridges (which included eight bridge to culvert projects) plus a multi-million-dollar funding package from the Australia Government to build other 12 new bridges.

Council also employed local contractors to design and construct another six bridges under the Fixing Country Bridges Program. Four of the six bridges have been completed so far.

“Council’s bridge renewal program

has been incredibly successful, and it has meant that our residents and primary producers no longer have to contend with load limited bridges that impact their ability to run their farms” Cr Webster said.

“Back in 2020 before we started our bridge renewal program,

Council had four bridges closed due to structural failures, 25 load limited bridges and 125 timber bridges, of which more than 70 were 70 plus years old.

“We now have just a handful of aging timber bridges to replace and our communities enjoy safer, more reliable transport routes.”

Kyogle Council

However, the job’s not over yet.

The completion of the new Suffolks bridge on Bean Creek Road this week means Council has fnished 77 bridges it committed to build under Round 1 of the Fixing Country Bridges program.

Council has funding to replace another 16 bridges, including Montgomerys Bridge and the Risk Road Bridge, and when all those bridges are fnished, Council will have no more aging timber bridges to replace.

“By delivering a safe, reliable bridge network, Council has provided community access and helped drive growth in the agriculture, rural industries and tourism sectors” Cr Webster said.

“We’ve helped build prosperity on the back of building bridges.”

Spawning trout - Credit NSW DPI

PFAS - Photo by PFAS Facts

e Northern Rivers Times

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX MARKET REPORT

NUMBERS OF YOUNG CATTLE DOWN BUT PRICES REBOUND AT NRLX SALE

At the NRLX sale on Wednesday, June 5, numbers were down by 600 compared to last week’s large yarding, with 1,600 head up for sale. This decrease was primarily seen in the young cattle, though cow numbers were also slightly lower.

The yarding of young cattle consisted mainly of vealers and weaners, with a few pens of yearlings. Prices regained last week’s losses, increasing by 30c, driven by active Western and Queensland buyers.

Restocker weaner steers sold from 252c to 376c, averaging 340c. Similarly, restocker weaner heifers saw gains, ranging from 160c to 305c, while vealers for processing sold from 180c to 226c/kg. Feeder and background yearling steers fetched prices from 294c to

LISMORE

OFF THE RAILS - BY GLENN WEIR CATTLE MARKET REPORT LISMORE SALEYARDS BREEDER SALE 1ST JUNE 2024

330 female cattle were sold at Ian Weir & Son’s Lismore saleyards on Saturday 1st June.

The yarding consisted of mainly of middle-aged cows with calves from 2 to 5 months old, PTIC cows and heifers, and a few lines of un-joined heifers and 10 bulls. The sale was lacking the quality of recent breeder sales and prices were a refection of this.

Heifers with young calves topped at $2,400 for an F1

WARWICK

MC DOUGALL & SONS

LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK & DISTRICT W/E 07/06/2024

Numbers for both major sales this week were frm on last week and as it went sale wise, both entities performed remarkably on the same plane with the yarding’s performing at a slightly better rate for the better types in both fnished and feed on with slightly rising prices. The yarding’s were mainly feed on types and older stock moved on as winter creeps in.

Vealer steers av 306.9c/kg topping at 386.2c/kg or $615.36 to $1044.00

Vealer heifers av 248.9c/kg topping at 300c/kg or $489.41 to $900.00

Feeder steers av 288.5c/kg topping at 366.2c/kg or $1069.31 to $1627.50

Feeder heifers av 214.7c/kg topping at 316.2c/kg or $668.24 to $1319.54

Yearling steers av 349.2c/kg topping at 400.2c/kg or $928.74 to $1456.00

Yearling heifers av 246.6c/kg topping at 300c/kg or $729.57 to $1395.00

Yearling heifers av 246.6c/kg topping at 300c/kg or $729.57 to $1395.00

Steers av 287.3c/kg topping at 336.2c/kg or $1615.74 to $2212.70

Heifers av 258.1c/kg topping at 306.2c/kg or $1180.99 to $1882.88

330c, with yearling heifers topping at 350c/kg.

Statistics By Stock Type

The mixed yarding of cows saw plainer grades

Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange

Per: Head

The yarding of export cattle mainly included cows, with a small number of grown steers and heifers. Insuffcient numbers of grown steers were available for a reliable quote, while grown heifers peaked at 274c/kg.

to 20c cheaper, whereas 3 and 4 score cows experienced little change. The 2 score cows sold from 129c to 178c, 3 score medium weights averaged 185c, and 4 score cows ranged from 195c to 227c/kg.

Per: Kg

(Brahman x Hereford), others ranged from $1,500 to $1,800. Cows and calves topped at $2,050 with most in the $1,000 to $1,600 range depending on size of cow and size of calf. PTIC cows and heifers sold from $750 to $1,300, once again depending on quality.

An Angus bull (20 months old) sold on behalf of “Bentley Angus” topped the bulls at $4,500.

Cattle Sale 4th June 2024

720 cattle were yarded at the popular Lismore Saleyards on Tuesday 4th June.

A very good line of up to 220 grown cattle sold to good competition from meat operators and re-stockers.

Fat heavy cows sold from $2.00 to $2.16 per kilo.

Graeme Holt’s Charolais off Bangalow sold at $2.12 for a return of $1,327. Geoff Nilon’s Hereford sold for $2.16

Manufacturing steers av 19.5c/kg topping at 213.2c/kg or $901.29 to $1204.58

Cows av 186.6c/kg topping at 227.2c/kg or $856.73 to $1859.00

Bulls av 217.9c/kg topping at 269.2c/kg or $855.38 to $2246.21

Sale total of 1202 head av $836.12

Lambs topped at $240 to av $127.64 ($5 up )

Hoggets topped at $115 to av $76.78 ($11 down)

Ewes topped at $128 to av $74.04 ($16 down)

Wethers topped at $115 to av $75.56 ($26 down)

Rams topped at $130 to av $69.18 ($32 down)

Lamb rams topped at $138 to av $71.04 9$50 down)

Sale av of $104.99 was a drop of $5/head for 1868 head yarded.

Pork numbers were back, sows made from $240 to $255, Boars sold to $180, Pork from $170 to $202, Light Pork to $189, Stores from $91 to $182

Poultry was waning in numbers as well, Roosters sold to $20, Hens to $20, Ducks to $20, Guinea Fowl to $20, Pullets and Turkeys sold to $15, and the days highlight was a pair of peacocks highlighting at $50

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

Agents and vendors combined to present 1868 head for the weekly sale. The drawing was from local and the Maranoa areas as well as New England. The yarding was a 55/45 % split between lamb categories and mutton categories. The lambs were of a mixed type with a few runs of good lambs with the bulk either unfnished or a lighter weight. Mutton had a few runs of ewes and wethers with

for a return of $1,351. Secondary cows sold from $1.70 to $1.95 per kilo.

Bulls topped at $2.12 per kilo with most good heavy bulls ranging from $1.95 to $2.05 per kilo.

The prices for weaners benefted from the rain in the west, with most showing gains of 20c to 50c per kil when compared to last week’s local sales. Good quality Euro and Angu steers sold from $3.20 to $3.80 per kilo, their sisters ranged from $2.80 to $3.20 per kilo.

Secondary lines of cross bred weaners were hard to sell last week but this week were more popular. Steers ranged from $2.70 to $3.50 per kilo and heifers $2.20 to $2.80 per kilo.

Don’t forget to book in any weaners you would like to sell for our special weaner sale at Lismore on Thursday 13th June with a 9am start.

some good fnish as well as a smaller percentage of light weight and Merinos. Lambs topped at $240 to av $127.64 ($5 up ), Hoggets topped at $115 to av $76.78 ($11 down), Ewes topped at $128 to av $74.04 ($16 down), Wethers topped at $115 to av $75.56 ($26 down), Rams topped at $130 to av $69.18 ($32 down), Lamb rams topped at $138 to av $71.04 ($50 down). The sale total of $104.99 / head was a drop of $5/head week on week.

Stephen & Fran Thompson sold Dorset lambs shorn 69kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $240

Greenup Maryland P/S sold shorn Dorset lambs 60kg to Eversons for $197 and to restockers for $200

David Sedgwick sold Dorper x lambs 50kg to Mc Intyre Meats for $171

Kim Aisthorpe sold Dorper lambs 52kg to Eversons for $178 and 48.6kg to Eversons for $166

Welsh Family sold Aussie White lambs 60kg to Mc Intyre Meats for $200

Rory & Kathy Frost sold Dorper x lambs 54kg to Grants Quality Meats for $190

Phil & Gabe Byrnes sold 46.7kg lambs to Eversons for $177, 45.5kg to Jock Young Meats for $180

Hurley & Weiss sold Dorper x lambs 49kg to Eversons for $178, 47.1kg to Leslie Lamb for $174, 48.3kg to Eversons for $174

Kerlin Family sold 50kg Dorper x lambs to Mc Intyre Meats for $169, 43.6kg to GR Prime for $130, 41.1kg to GR Prime for $120, ewes to restockers for $86 and Rams to restockers for $8, ewes to Eversons for $43 and $34

Martin Power sold Suffolk lambs shorn 35.7kg to Eversons for $72

CONTACT US - The Northern Rivers Times Rural Edition ✆ 1300 679 787 SALES 02 6662 6222 sales@heartlandmedia.com.au Albury - 02 6080 9520, Casino - 02 6662 6222, Dubbo - 02 5858 4078, Grafton - 02 5632 3041, Moree - 02 6794 3889, Tamworth - 02 5719 1656, Wagga Wagga - 02 5940 8516 Directors, co-owners and co-founders: Jeffrey Gibbs and Sharon Bateman

ISSN: 2652-7928 a Genesis Media company ABN: 84 134 238 181 All rights reserved © 2024 Distribution Coffs Harbour north to Southport and west to Tenterfield weekly.

Detector Gadget: Blue Skies Ahead for eDNA Sampler Drones

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s Innovation Pilots team has successfully used drones to collect environmental DNA (eDNA) samples from a waterway in Canberra.

Last month, the department, along with project partners, analysed the sample collected to confrm the presence of feral deer in the Ginninderry area.

Director of Research and Innovation Jessica May said the project paves the way for a faster, safer, more cost-effective, and targeted method of DNA sampling.

“It took the team just 15 minutes to sample the water needed using the drone. Previously, sampling by foot took

Secret cuts to the environment budget discovered through Senate Estimates hearings should quash any belief that the Albanese Labor Government care about delivering on the ground environmental outcomes. Having revealed at the last Estimates Hearings in February a dishonoured commitment of $90 million from the Landcare Rangers program and deferral of its election commitment out into the never-never, the Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek has now been found to be a serial menace to the environment.

Despite declaring to the National Press

over one hour due to tough surrounding terrain,” Ms May said.

“This time-saving method will help us focus our resources and save on operational expenses when taking samples across a large geographic area.

“Compared to water’s edge sampling, extracting from the middle of a water body delivers a better opportunity for a less contaminated sample. When using the technology, drone operators remain safe

in an open clearing throughout the sample collection. Samplers do not need to trudge through slippery bogs or venture down into steep ravines, reducing the risk they sustain physical injury or encounter dangerous wildlife

during sampling.

“Now we have seen its potential, drone sampling may be used to detect the presence of native and invasive species that shed DNA into the environment, like avian infuenza in water birds,” Ms May said.

NO CARE FOR LANDCARE

Club in July 2022 that the thousands of environmental volunteers across Australia “just need a government that cares as much as they do,” it is clear the Albanese Government is not what they need.

As highlighted by Conservation Volunteers Australia, the decision by the Albanese Government to quietly shelve the signature $90 million Landcare Rangers election commitment is reinforced by the axing of the nation’s marine litter and environmental disaster volunteering programs, managed by Conservation Volunteers Australia - taking the management of our environment backwards.

Together these programs had over 25,000 volunteers signed up between them.

This was despite the previous Coalition Government’s commitment to continue funding them as part of the $100 million Environment Restoration Fund extension announced in its fnal 2022-23 Federal Budget (March), but axed by the Albanese Government to fund its ‘Saving Native Species’ election commitment in its revised October 2022-23 Federal Budget.

The Shadow Minister for Emergency Management and Water, Senator Davey, who is also the Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of

Landcare, said she was appalled by the way the Albanese Government was killing off environmental programs by stealth.

“Minister Plibersek is acting like a feral cat in a wildlife sanctuary. She’s creeping around wiping out key organisations in the dead of night,”

Senator Davey said.

“When asked today in Senate Estimates why the Government was cutting these programs we received nonsensical answers about skills shortages, deferrals and alternative funds.

“Programs like the Landcare Rangers and those managed by Conservation Volunteers Australia are the frontline of

our environmental stewardship and are both locally popular and effective.

“Our environment deserves better than a Minister who is breaking promises and cutting environmental funding to on the ground volunteer organisations at the same time as bolstering the Canberra based bureaucracy.”

Shadow Environment Minister Jonno Duniam is stunned at the neglect shown to volunteer organisations by Albanese Government:

“On the one hand Tanya Plibersek is plunging millions of dollars of taxpayers’ money every year into organisations like the Environmental Defenders Offce that

Innovation Pilot projects enable government and industry to together implement new technological solutions in the feld. The projects aim to deliver outcomes for the National Biosecurity Strategy to build a future-focused department and biosecurity system that can prevent, predict, identify, and respond to biosecurity threats more effectively and effciently.

Project partners

• Ginninderry Conservation Trust

• National eDNA Reference Centre

• University of Canberra

• The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

seek to frustrate and stop important projects and is hiring thousands of extra bureaucrats in Canberra at great expense. Yet, on the other, she’s deciding to rip funding out of programs like Landcare that actually make a genuine, practical difference to local environments.”

“The uncovering of Labor’s secret axing of the $90 million Landcare Rangers program was further proof that they are not on the side of regional communities. They will always try to bloat bureaucracies and harvest Green votes in the inner-city rather than seek community consultation and deliver practical policies.”

Drone Lifts Hydrasleeve with Water Sample above waterway in Ginninderry, ACT

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

COPPÉLIA

Love and mayhem collide in this airy, light-hearted ballet with Australian fair

A beautiful, life-like doll and two quarrelling young lovers create comic chaos in this spirited ballet with a twist.

Set in the sun-drenched South Australian town of Hahndorf in the late 19th century, this mischievous

story has a distinctly regional atmosphere featuring colourful, endearing characters inspired by history.

Six years after the arrival of Dr Coppelius in their village, Swanilda and her friends are intrigued by Coppélia – the bright young woman that appears on his balcony. Jealous of her sweetheart Franz’s

interest in the doctor’s mysterious ‘daughter’, Swanilda sneaks into his house to confront her rival. But all is not as it seems – and when the doctor discovers Franz is another intruder, delightful mayhem follows!

Choreographer Greg Horsman, after Arthur Saint-Léon and Marius Petipa, has created a

touching and witty production – with a vivid Australian aesthetic. With joyful dance and the charming music of Léo Delibes, Coppélia is a light-hearted ballet that will charm audiences of all ages.

Created at the end of the Romantic era, it was loosely adapted from Arthur Saint-Léon’s three-act ballet frst

performed by the Paris Opera in 1870 and incorporates elements of both Romanticism and Classicism. The plot was inspired by ETA Hoffmann’s stories Der Sandmann (The Sandman) and Die Puppe (The Doll). Rich in humour and storytelling, Coppélia is a co-production between Queensland Ballet and

West Australian Ballet. EVENT DETAILS:

• When: 7-22 June

• Where: QPAC

• Price: From $107

• Tickets: Via the QR code

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 If a person’s opinion is tendentious, it might also be described as what? (a) Illogical (b) Dogmatic (c) Biased (d) Uncertain

2 What is the secondlargest city of Egypt by population?

(a) Cairo (b) Giza (c) Port Said (d) Alexandria

3 Who wrote a series of novels featuring the character Amos Decker?

(a) J. M. Coetzee

(b) David Baldacci (c) George Saunders (d) James Patterson

4 Which country has the world’s only nonquadrilateral national flag? (a) Laos (b) Bhutan (c) Mongolia (d) Nepal

5 The reunification of North and South Vietnam occurred during which year? (a) 1979 (b) 1976 (c) 1974 (d) 1971

6 Who won the 2023 Wimbledon Men’s singles final? (a) Novak Djokovic (b) Jannik Sinner (c) Carlos Alcaraz (d) Daniil Medvedev

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 CODICIL

(a) A manuscript volume

(b) In music, a passage forming the completion of a piece

(c) A supplement to a will

2 IMPECUNIOUS

(a) Short of money

(b) Not liable to sin

(c) Fearless

3 OBJURE

(a) To chide

(b) To bind by oath

(c) To express disapproval

4 PRESAGE

(a) An omen

(b) Predominance

(c) Urgency

5 SPRAG

(a) An annoying child

(b) A fish like the herring but much smaller

(c) A bar inserted to stop a wheel

SUNDAY

LADIES IN BLACK

ABC, 8.30pm

You needn’t don your Sunday best for this new six-part series, but you’ll probably be inspired to pull out some of your fancier duds after falling for this heartwarming tale of a bygone era. Birkenstocks and activewear may be unpalatable after enjoying this female-led ’60s world of fashion directed by Gracie Otto and starring her screen-star sister Miranda (pictured), along with a resplendent Jessica De Gouw (The Secrets She Keeps) and American bombshell Debi Mazar (Entourage, Younger). Based on the book and set six months after the 2018 movie, this glamorous Aussie drama unwraps the stories of the women running the chic Goodes Department Store during a time of great change.

FRIDAY, June 14

MONDAY

STUFF THE BRITISH STOLE

ABC, 8pm

Journalist Marc Fennell (pictured) enraptured audiences with his dazzling rst season of investigative daring into the prized possessions the British monarchy have quietly nabbed as their own across the centuries. He’s back with season two to dig deeper into the swiped treasure in a fascinating eight-part doco 11 di erent nations including Kenya, Egypt, Canada and South America. Fennell’s globe-trotting mission features both shipwreck and desert in a compelling puzzle of ownership and truth. In tonight’s premiere, the Parthenon Marbles are under the microscope, with legendary actor and intellect Stephen Fry joining Fennell at the controversial museum exhibit.

THURSDAY GUILLAUME’S FRENCH ATLANTIC

Award-winning chef Guillaume Brahimi (pictured) now calls the idyllic shores of Sydney home, but for this Parisborn TV personality, nothing beats the beauty of the French Atlantic coastline.

After drinking in this gloriously shot travel and foodie series, you’d be hard-pressed to disagree with him. Premiering tonight, this lush ve-part sojourn follows the charming Frenchman on a gastronomic and historical journey, beginning in Normandy and concluding on the Spanish border as he eats, drinks and rhapsodises his way through the stunning region. Chateaus (aka castles) and wine star in this travel show where a sliver of cheese is like a slice of heaven and the humble viewer learns how to whip up French donuts.

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

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 That Paci c Sports Show. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Mal, R) 2.00 Miniseries: The Cry. (Mals, R) 3.00 Love On The Spectrum. (PG, R) 3.55 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 4.45 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

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

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. Costa Georgiadis meets the clivia king.

8.30 Silent Witness. (Ma) The Lyell team returns to the crime scene when another victim is in peril.

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

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

10.35 Austin. (PG, R)

11.05 ABC Late News.

11.20 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R)

12.10 Love Your Garden. (R)

1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs: India. (PGa, R) 9.55 Outta Town Adventures. 10.55 Charles I: To Kill A King. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.30 Such Was Life. 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Walking Britain’s Lost Railways. (PGav, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Abandoned Railways From Above. (PG)

8.25 Secrets Of The Lost Liners: Oceanos. (PGa) Takes a look at the Oceanos 9.15 Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters: Spies In The Deep. (PGal, R) 10.05 SBS World News Late. 10.35 World On Fire. (Malv)

11.35 Shadow Lines. (MA15+v, R) 3.45 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)

4.45 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 7.20pm Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Strange Chores. 8.00 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Operation Ouch! 9.00 O cially Amazing. 9.35 Dragon Ball Super. 9.50 Supernatural Academy. 10.15 The PM’s Daughter. 10.40 Phoenix Rise. 11.45 Good Game Spawn Point. 12.35am Rage. 1.35 TMNT. 2.20 The Legend Of Korra. 2.45 Shasha And Milo. 3.15 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: No One Would Tell. (2018, Mav, R) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PG) 3.00

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

8.30 MOVIE: Knives Out. (2019, Mal, R)

An eccentric detective, enlisted to investigate the untimely death of a wealthy and renowned crime novelist, must deal with the deceased’s conniving family and a web of lies to uncover the truth. Daniel Craig, Ana De Armas, Chris Evans. 11.15 Dream Home. (PGl, R) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown.

1.00 Boy To Man: The Cave Climbers. (PGa, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Cowboy Kings Of Crypto. 10.30 Spiralling. Noon WorldWatch. 12.25 MOVIE: Selena. (1997, M) 2.45 Over The Black Dot. 3.35 WorldWatch. 5.30 Modern Marvels: Toys. 6.15 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Big Zuu Goes To Mecca. 9.40 Sex Before The Internet. 10.35 Sex Unlimited. 11.30 Ten Year Old Tom. 12.35am Bad Education. 1.10 Dark Side Of Comedy. 2.05 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Medical Emergency. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Harry’s Practice. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 15. South Sydney Rabbitohs v Brisbane Broncos.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the South Sydney Rabbitohs versus Brisbane Broncos match, with news and analysis.

10.40 MOVIE: Point Break. (2015, Mlv, R) An FBI agent in ltrates a team of extreme athletes. Édgar Ramírez, Luke Bracey.

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

1.35 Pointless. (PG, R)

2.30 Destination WA.

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Postcards. (PG, R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

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

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

7.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Hosted by Tom Gleisner.

8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mls, R) Celebrity guests include Sarah Snook, Boy George and Miriam Margolyes. 9.30 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a look at the week that was.

10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather.

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

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

(52) 7MATE (64) SBS

Continued. (1951, PG) 6.30 The Grey Fox. (1982, PG) 8.10 Walking On Sunshine. (2014, PG) 10.00 A Fish Called Wanda. (1988, M) Noon Healing. (2014, M) 2.10 Magnetic Fields. (2021, PG, Greek) 3.45 The Importance Of Being Earnest. (1952) 5.30 An Ideal Husband. (1999, PG) 7.25 Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. (1988, PG) 9.30 Long Story Short. (2021) 11.20 Runner Runner. (2013, MA15+) 1am Son Of A Gun. (2014, MA15+) 3.00 The Mask Of Zorro. (1998, M) 5.30 The Movie Show.

6am Children’s Programs. 11.30

Sur ng Australia TV. Noon MOVIE: The Lonely Spirits Variety Hour. (2022, M) 1.35 Young Sheldon. 2.00 Full House. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Children’s Programs. 5.40 MOVIE: Monster Family. (2017, PG)

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

N E H

N O M

O Y O Today’s target: 5 words average 7 words good 10+ 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)

Mighty Mars (your boss planet) is now transiting through practical, productive Taurus (until July 20) so you’re fired up to get things done. But this week – with Pluto squaring Mars on Tuesday –moderation and cooperation could be difficult to find. So do your best to calm down and keep the peace. Friday’s terrific Sun/Mercury conjunction boosts your ability to connect and converse with others, especially within your local community. So make the most of it!

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

With proactive Mars in your sign, and Pluto activating your career zone, you’re keen to power ahead and achieve more at work. But high stress levels, long delays and short timelines are a problem at the moment, as you are diverted from professional responsibilities by a tricky personal matter, a meddling friend or a frustrating financial issue. With plenty of patience and a dollop of diplomacy, you’ll steer your way through a challenging week.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

This week – courtesy of Wednesday’s Mercury/ Saturn square – work looks stressful, and you won’t have the patience to put up with annoying people or tedious explanations. So strive to extricate yourself from negative situations in a tactful way. On Friday, communication and conversation are the buzzwords as you share opinions, learn a new skill, or pass on some exciting information. It’s a good time to give your Gemini brain cells a thorough workout!

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Expect a rather stressful week as Saturn and Pluto stir up resentments, unfinished arguments and bad memories. Burying your head in the sand is probably a good option for sensitive, overloaded Crabs. Use the downtime for relaxation, contemplation and planning. Then – from Friday onwards – dare to set ambitious goals and dream big dreams. As writer (and birthday great) Joyce Carol Oates reminds us: “A daydreamer is prepared for most things.”

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22) You’re determined to complete a project with creative panache and loads of Leo style. But there are some frustrating planetary patterns so expect power plays, disruptions or delays. Patience and compromise are required, otherwise it will be a long and challenging week. When it comes to your work routine and professional projects, the big lesson to learn is how to delegate. No-one (not even a super-capable Leo) is indispensable!

On Friday, follow your dreams.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Virtuous Virgos love to feel useful and productive. But does it seem as if you’re treading water at work, or a close relationship is going backwards?

This week Saturn slows things down and increases frustrations (especially on Wednesday). But then Mercury (your patron planet) hooks up with the Sun on Friday, which encourages you to pair up with a creative colleague and make your professional dreams come true. You’ll need to be extra patient though!

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22) Saturn and Pluto stymie motivation and slow progress. You could also find it difficult to stick to your chosen diet, daily exercise program or usual beauty routine. Perhaps it would be better to moderate your perfectionist streak, accept your perceived imperfections, and learn to love yourself as you are? Be inspired by birthday great Judy Garland: “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.”

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Prepare for a rather tricky week as Pluto squares Mars, and people (or circumstances) frustrate your plans. Don’t let others hijack your career goals or derail your domestic dreams. No matter how challenging things become or how long it takes, you need to be the captain of your own ship and the master of your own destiny! So your motto is from fellow Scorpio, award-winning actress Tilda Swinton: “What is any life without the pursuit of a golden dream?”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

This week, if you’re argumentative with family members, friends and work colleagues, then they will be in the mood to fight back! So – if you want to avoid fiery clashes – do your best to be more tolerant and understanding towards others. Plus, try to view a troubled close relationship from a much more philosophical perspective. The winning formula for smooth Sagittarian communication is conversation + cooperation + generosity + joy.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Saturn (your ruling planet) squares Mercury on Wednesday, so expect a stressful week of frustrations and challenges involving work, health, education or neighbours. And – courtesy of Mars and Uranus – a friend or family member could say or do something that makes you gasp. As writer (and birthday great) Joyce Carol Oates reminds us: “Sometimes people surprise us. People we believe we know.” A flexible, philosophical attitude will get you through.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) The Sun, Mercury, Venus and Jupiter are all transiting through your romance and friendship zones. Communication, creative partnerships and joint ventures are favoured, as you spark ideas off each other. Expect some resistance to your ideas, but that’s OK. Plus (courtesy of Mars and Uranus) you’ll find your domestic life and family relationships are exciting and unpredictable. So hold onto your hat and expect the unexpected. Life certainly won’t be boring!

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Do your best to avoid Piscean procrastination and negative self-talk. Mars and Uranus are activating your learning and local environment zone. So it’s time to be clever, confident and proactive as you set ambitious goals, attract mentors and expand your world in exciting new directions. Study, observe, listen and learn! Your motto for the week is from birthday great, writer William Butler Yeats: “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

The Listen Out 2024 Lineup has Dropped!

Listen Out has confrmed its return for 2024, revealing an eclectic mix of hip-hop, R&B, and dance artists today (June 4th). The festival will take place from late September to early October, with its condensed sister festival, Listen In, once again happening in Adelaide.

Full details on the line-up, dates, and ticket information can be found below.

Headlining the festival is 21 Savage, making his Australian debut. Joining him is UK grime veteran Skepta, marking his frst Australian shows since the 2019/2020 New Year period.

The hip-hop line-up features top-tier talent, including 21 Savage,

Skepta, Lil Tjay, Tyla, Flo Milli, Teezo Touchdown, and more.

For those eager to hit the rave cave, expect searing sets from producers and artists like John Summit, The Blessed Madonna, Folamour, Cassian, Conducta, and more. Don’t miss Sub Focus performing his 2023 masterpiece Evolve in full.

Local legends will also be showcased, highlighting the best Australia has to offer.

Strong names like Miss Kaninna, Djanaba, Soju Gang, and a Foura B2B Tom Santa set will be part of the tour, with each Listen Out date spotlighting local talent on their stages.

Listen In will return

to Adelaide, bringing along 21 Savage, A Little Sound, Folamour, Jessie Reyez, John Summit,

Lil Tjay, Skepta, and the triple j Unearthed winner to South Australia.

Tickets for Listen Out

and Listen In 2024 go on sale at staggered times on Thursday, June 6th. For full information, visit the festival’s website.

Listen Out 2024

• Friday 27 September

– Caribbean Gardens, Wurundjeri Lands, Melbourne Vic

• Saturday 28

September – HBF Arena, Mooro Lands, Joondalup WA

• Saturday 5 October –Brisbane Showgrounds, Turrbal Lands, Brisbane Qld

• Sunday 6 October –Centennial Park, Gadigal Lands, Sydney NSW

Listen In 2024

• Sunday 29

September – Ellis Park/ Tampawardli, Kaurna Lands, Adelaide SA

National Line-Up

• 21 Savage

• Skepta

• Lil Tjay

• Tyla

• Flo Milli

• Jessie Reyez

• Teezo Touchdown

• Lithe

• John Summit

• Sub Focus

• Evolve

• Folamour

• The Blessed Madonna

• Cassian

• Disco Lines

• Jazzy

• Koven

• Conducta

• A Little Sound

• Ben Gerrans

• AK Sports

• Foura b2b Tom Santa

• Miss Kaninna

• DJANABA

• Soju Gang

New flms to catch at the Cinema in June

As the weather cools, who wants to be outside? Well, what better way to entertain yourself then sitting in the warmth of a cinema! And with some amazing new flms playing this June, there is something on the screen for everyone.

Furiosa: A Mad Max Story

Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth star in Academy Awardwinning mastermind George Miller’s “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga”. As the world fell, young Furiosa is snatched from the Green Place of Many Mothers and falls into the hands of a great Biker Horde led by the Warlord Dementus. Sweeping through the Wasteland, they come across the

Citadel presided over by The Immortan Joe. While the two Tyrants war for dominance, Furiosa must survive many trials as she puts together the means to fnd her way home.

Fall Guy He’s a stuntman, and like everyone in the stunt community, he gets blown up, shot, crashed, thrown through windows and dropped from the highest of heights, all for our entertainment. And

now, fresh off an almost career-ending accident, this working-class hero has to track down a missing movie star, solve a conspiracy and try to win back the love of his life while still doing his day job. What could possibly go right?

The Garfeld Movie Garfeld (voiced by Chris Pratt), the worldfamous, Monday-hating, lasagna-loving indoor cat, is about to have a wild outdoor adventure!

After an unexpected reunion with his longlost father – scruffy street cat Vic (voiced by Samuel L. Jackson) –Garfeld and his canine friend Odie are forced from their perfectly pampered life into joining Vic in a hilarious, high-stakes heist.

Challengers

From visionary flmmaker Luca Guadagnino, “Challengers” stars Zendaya as Tashi

Duncan, a former tennis prodigy-turned-coach and a force of nature who makes no apologies for her game on and off the court. Married to a champion on a losing streak (Mike Faist), Tashi’s strategy for her husband’s redemption takes a surprising turn when he must face off against the washed-up Patrick (Josh O’Connor)—his former best friend and Tashi’s former boyfriend. As

their pasts and presents collide, and tensions run high, Tashi must ask herself, what will it cost to win?

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Director Wes Ball breathes new life into the global, epic franchise set several generations in the future following Caesar’s reign, in which apes are the dominant species living harmoniously and humans have been reduced to living in the shadows. As a new tyrannical ape leader builds his empire, one young ape undertakes a harrowing journey that will cause him to question all that he has known about the past and to make choices that will defne a future for apes and humans alike.

CONRAD SEWELL AT THE MULLUMBIMBY EX SERVICES CLUB

Catch ARIA awardwinning artist, Conrad Sewell LIVE in Mullum on June 14th 8pm. He is set to perform all of his biggest hits, including ‘Healing Hands’, ‘Start Again’ and his smash hit with over one BILLION streams, Firestone. Conrad takes his new

album ‘Precious’ on the road to play to his fans for the very frst time.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday 14th June 8pm

• Where: Mullumbimby Ex Services Club

• Price: $50

• Tickets: Via the QR code.

DONT MISS OUT ON YOUR CHANCE TO CATCH CONRAD!

Historic Fine Issued for Unauthorized Land Clearing

In a landmark decision, a landowner in Canyonleigh, Southern Highlands, has been fned $135,000 and ordered to pay the prosecutor’s costs after illegally clearing over fve hectares of native vegetation on their property. This case marks the frst instance in which the NSW Land and Environment Court has sentenced an individual for such an offence.

The court heard that the landowner commenced the unauthorized clearing in two stages between July 2021 and August 2022. Despite being served with a Development Control Order by the Wingecarribee Shire Council in August 2021

and a Stop Work Order by the Department of Planning and Environment in April 2022, the landowner continued the clearing activities.

Unauthorized clearing of native vegetation in regulated rural areas is a violation of section 60N of the Local Land Services Act 2013. The property in question is classifed as a “regulated rural area” and the vegetation is designated as “native vegetation.”

The cleared area contained trees over 200 years old and 54 species of native fora, including trees critical for the endangered Koala and habitats for the vulnerable Gang Gang Cockatoo and YellowBellied Glider. The

native vegetation in this area was of particularly high quality, as there had been no clearing since 1913.

Chief Justice Preston stated that the clearing had “directly and likely substantially reduced the biodiversity value of the area and the habitat provision for wildlife.”

The landowner was convicted under section 60N of the Local Land Services Act 2013, fned $135,000, and ordered to pay the prosecutor’s costs.

This ruling sets a precedent, highlighting the severe consequences of unauthorized land clearing and the importance of preserving biodiversity.

Ingrid Emery, Executive Director Regional

Delivery Biodiversity, Conservation and Science, commented on the signifcance of the outcome:

“This is a signifcant outcome which should serve as a reminder to others that there are rules about clearing native vegetation on regulated land, and that those who intend to clear without authorization will face substantial penalties.

The landowner was aware that their actions were not permitted and continued to destroy our native fora, causing signifcant impacts on the biodiversity in the region. I would like to thank all those involved in investigating and bringing this matter before the court.”

Look out for animals on country roads

Transport for NSW has launched its annual ‘Animals on country roads’ public education initiative to help remind motorists to drive safely around animals. Between 2013 and 2022 there were a total of 1,423 crashes with an animal which resulted in 25 people dying and a further 1,592 people injured. Deputy Secretary Sally Webb said driving or riding on country roads can present unique challenges due to the presence of wildlife and livestock. Animals can appear suddenly and behave unpredictably, especially at dusk and dawn when they are more active.

“Simple things everyone can do include slowing down, staying alert, following warning signs and being aware that animals are often more active around water holes, as well as harder to see at sunrise and sunset,” Ms Webb said.

“By taking some extra care you will be protecting both human lives and our wildlife.”

To help reduce the risk of a crash and keep everyone safe, motorists should always do the following:

• Reduce your speed when driving through areas where wildlife is known to be active.

• Keep an eye out for animals on or near the

roadside.

• Stay alert near waterholes and creeks, where animals tend to gather.

• Remember that animals are harder to see at sunrise and sunset.

• Follow animal warning signs - Take note of warning signs alerting you to the presence of animals in the area. If you see these signs, slow down, stay alert and be prepared to stop if required.

“One in every 40 casualty crashes on country roads involves a vehicle hitting an animal, animals like kangaroos and cattle are often close to the road and can be unpredictable - which

PALM Work Hours Change a Positive Step for Australian Farmers

The National Farmers’ Federation’s Horticulture Council has welcomed recent improvements to the Pacifc Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, which promise to enhance its viability as a workforce option for Australian farmers.

Effective from 1 July 2024, the revised policy mandates that employers of short-term workers offer 120 hours of work over four weeks, instead of the initially proposed requirement of 30 hours each week.

Jolyon Burnett, Chair of the NFF Horticulture Council, expressed optimism that the Albanese Government’s adjustment responds to industry concerns about the initial weekly hour requirements, which could have discouraged employer participation in the PALM scheme and reduced opportunities for Pacifc workers to earn substantial wages in Australia.

“Business confdence in horticulture is at a low ebb right now, and a lot of that has got to do with a lack of certainty in our workforce options,” Mr. Burnett said. “The announced improvements will be a

is why it’s important that all drivers take care around animals on our roads,” Ms Webb said.”

“This campaign is a great reminder to all drivers to be vigilant and cautious when traveling on country roads, especially in regions known for wildlife activity.” Social media, radio and digital displays are now rolling out to remind motorists how to stay safe around animals on the roads.

For more information on road safety and driving tips in animalprone areas, visit the Transport for NSW Road Safety website.

real shot in the arm for employers in the sector, especially for those who have made signifcant accommodation and other capital investments to meet scheme requirements.”

Mr. Burnett applauded the government’s responsiveness and emphasized the need for a long-term strategy to develop a secure, reliable, and productive workforce for the horticulture industry, incorporating a balanced mix of labor sources.

“The PALM scheme has an important, if not central, part to play in that mix, but caution against leaving ourselves overdependent on it,” he said. “Regardless of the improvements announced today, there will still be situations where engaging PALM workers, given the relative infexibility of the scheme and its attendant costs and requirements, will not be commercially viable.”

He concluded by reaffrming the Council’s commitment to ongoing collaboration with the government to optimize the labor mix for the horticulture sector.

Statement on China’s reinstatement of export approvals

Comments attributable to NFF President, David Jochinke

We welcome today’s announcement of the reinstatement of export approvals for fve Australian meat processing facilities into China.

This is another important step in the right direction towards improving our trading relationship with one of Australia’s major partners.

This builds on the welcome lifting of restriction on wine imports announced in March this year.

Australian agriculture is a trade dependent sector, exporting more than 70% of what it produces and China is a valued trading partner for Australian farmers.

We thank Ministers Don Farrell, Penny Wong and Murray Watt for their tireless work to resolve these suspensions.

We will continue to work with the government as it progresses the resolution of remaining trade impediments for the meat and rock lobster sectors.

By Helen Trustum

From about the time of 1849 when a permanent settlement was established at Coraki and William Yabsley was able to obtain the lease of Brook Station and with the passing of the Robertson Land Act in 1861, many new settlers arrived. A plan to build a “Village of Coraki” was made in 1866. From

then on, the settlement began to grow and a public ferry crossing was needed.

A new ferry for this service was built by William Yabsley Jnr. and launched by him in August 1879. This service operated from a point in the river near the Police Station. Local Member, Mr Robert Pyers received many requests for a bridge over

the South Arm.

In 1891 “Scrubby” Nolan obtained the lease to operate the ferry for 10 pounds, the next year it went to Patrick Gillick for 53 pounds then in later years J. Hutchinson paid 93 pounds. However, there were many complaints about the service. The early ferries had no gates or side rails. There were problems with the ferry

approaches as they were steep and slippery in wet weather.

By the 1880’s both Yabsley and Yeager had established successful shipping enterprises and Coraki was a busy inland port. There was obviously a huge increase in the use of a ferry.

On 10th February 1897 it was noted in John McKinnons diary that

Council decided to take over another ferry at Coraki to be established at the foot of Adam Street.

Public Works annual report 1898 – 1899 recorded that a new hand ferry was built at Adam Street.

During 1904 the Government announced that it would endeavour to convert all ferries to steam, but this was not

accomplished in Coraki until September 1910 when a steam ferry built in Ballina went into operation. Responsibility for roads, bridges and ferries was in the hands of the Department of Public Works from the late 1850’s. In 1925 the Main Roads Board assumed responsibility. This became the Department of Main Roads in 1932

Coraki Ferry

Allan Clark with his horse crossing the Coraki Ferry

Allan Trustum and Helen Maxwell crossing the Coraki Ferry in 1965

By Helen Trustum

and in 1989 the Roads and Traffc Authority.

Glebe Bridge over the South Arm of the Richmond River was built with the frst pile driven in 1904. The bridge was always referred to as the Pyers Bridge, as Robert Pyers offcially opened the South Arm Bridge on 4th May 1905 at a cost of 9,500 pounds.

Water hyacinth was always a menace in the river where a food was the only effective way of getting rid of it.

The Arthurson Family deserve recognition in the Coraki Ferry story. Men from the Arthurson family have a special record, for at one stage, three brothers manned Richmond River Ferries.

Jack was on Burns Point, Angus (Spark)

on Woodburn and Andy on Coraki. These men had previously worked on river boats, as their father before them.

“Spark” was on the small relief ferry when it sank in the February 1951 food at Woodburn. Sadly, “Spark” himself was drowned on 20th June 1960, when his car plunged off the Coraki Ferry into the Richmond River.

A grand occasion was held for the opening of the $1.6 million bridge on 23rd May 1990. The bridge was offcially opened by the Minister for National Resources Mr Ian Causley, while Coraki Councillor, Mr Ken Thomas shared cutting the ribbon.

Over 5,000 people were in attendance on this special day in Coraki to

witness the opening of the bridge after 92 years of ferry service.

Warren Robinson one of the last operators of the Coraki Ferry. He was part of a team of fve men operating the ferry service for the last 10 years leading up to the ferry ceasing operation. Before Coraki, Warren worked at Woodburn until it was replaced by a bridge in 1982. The Coraki Ferry was shipped to Ulmarra on the Clarence, for the Ulmarra run.

MEMORIES

Ray Hunt: I have crossed all the ferries on the South and North Arm of the Richmond Riveras it was named. From Tuckurimba where I live, I crossed the Broadwater Ferry for 41 years. I

retired in 1998 and a bridge was built the following year. Nearly call that bad luck. The ferrymen over the years were a fne bunch of men either day or night. It always paid to be good friends, or they would leave you waiting on the bank.

Men, Ray Hunt recall’s: Ollie Ryan – Coraki, Spark and Andy Arthurson- Coraki, Bill Tarplee- Coraki, Warren Robinson- Coraki, Jim Haynes - Woodburn, John GallagherWoodburn, Col Sauer- Broadwater, Jim Trellfo- Wardell.

Robert Maxwell: I remember the time when a certain resident came to the ferry on his way home from a night in Coraki. After entering the ferry, he went off to

sleep and the ferry man could not wake him. This caused a problem, so he was left in the car on the ferry where he went back and forwards across the river till daylight.

Ferryman at Coraki: Courtesy of booklet “Ferry to Bridge, Crossing the Richmond River at Coraki”.

The First Ferry, William Tunstall, W. Watt, John McVicar, Nelson, Charles Sharpe. Bloom, Gillespie, “Scrubby” Nolan, Patrick Gillick, N. Manlow, J. Hutchinson, P Roche and J. Hile.

Adam Street Ferry –Paddy Roche, Joe Nix, Jack Day, Ted Sheather, Mr Fairhall, “Dad” Roberts, Ted Coombes, Dave Williams, P. B. O’Conner, H. Louis, J. Mc Intyre, C.J.

Cavanaugh, T. Andrews, Murray, C.S. Smith, C.A Gillum, D.S. Rosman, P. Orchard, A.V. Bottrell, Max Saxon, J. Evans, Andy Arthurson, Spark Arthurson, Sandy Davis, Foggy Richards, C. Gilbert, Neil Wallace, F. Webber, H.L. Morton, W. Greber.

J. R. McFadden, A.J. Winslade, W. Tarplee, Reg Black, Lyndon Everingham, Stan Everingham, J. Nighingdale, M. Chaffy, Ollie Ryan, Jim Haynes, Colin Sauer, M. Milligan, W. Robinson, J. Gollan, A. Wilkes.

Ref: Ferry to Bridge –Crossing the Richmond River at Coraki, published by the Mid Richmond Historical Society: Northern Star.

Opening of Coraki Bridge in July 1990, showing the Coraki Ferry

Ferryman Len Evingham on his last day driving the Corakl Ferry - 1990

Glebe Bridge at Coraki opened on 4th May 1905.

Ferryman, Andy Arthurson during 1965 Flood

CANEGROWERS Urges Extension for Disaster Recovery Grant Deadline

CANEGROWERS is calling on the State Government to extend the deadline for primary producers impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper to apply for and complete works under disaster recovery grants.

CANEGROWERS

CEO Dan Galligan highlighted that many growers are struggling to meet the current 30 June deadline through no fault of their own.

“The simple fact is, when this recovery package was announced, everyone knew that a six-month window was too short for applications and works,” Mr. Galligan

said.

“The shortage of contractors, staff, and equipment in far north Queensland means growers, often those most severely affected, have been unable to complete repair work.

“If growers can’t fnd contractors to complete the necessary work, they will miss the government’s deadline and will no longer be able to access those desperately needed disaster recovery funds.”

Mr. Galligan noted that not extending the deadline would particularly harm Mossman growers,

who are already facing challenges due to the recent liquidation of their local sugar mill.

“Growers in the region are already struggling and they need to get their farms back into shape. They are anxious about what the future holds for their businesses, their families, and their entire community.

“I would ask the government not to compound that hardship by enforcing this entirely arbitrary deadline. The timeframe should be extended and extended now.

“Many growers suffered considerable

damage to farming infrastructure when Jasper hit or in the weeks that followed when food waters ripped through the community.

“They want desperately to get those repairs completed, but until they can get contractors on site there isn’t much they can do. Growers shouldn’t be punished for circumstances beyond their control.”

Extending the deadline will provide much-needed relief and support to these growers, allowing them the necessary time to rebuild and restore their operations.

Massive rally shows farmer solidarity in face of live sheep ban

At an unprecedented rally, thousands of farmers, truckies and members of country towns have travelled to the centre of Perth to demonstrate the opposition to the Albanese Government’s live sheep ban.

Speaking from the rally, WA truckie, Ben Sutherland said it was an overwhelming success and showed the depth of support that everyone affected by the ban had from everyday

West Australians.

“The rally showed us how much people support us. We had beeps and waves from hundreds of drivers and pedestrians as well as a great response on social media,”

Mr Sutherland said the rally involved entire communities; with cattle farmers, truckies, sports clubs and workers all joining in the effort.

“So many people have taken time out of their days because they all

know how harmful a ban will be. We hope that people will support us through the rest of the campaign as it continues,” he said.

The convoy stretched over 20km and involved over 1700 vehicles and over 3000 people. The petition has now been signed by 23k people since the launch.

With legislation introduced into Parliament this week, the Keep the Sheep team said there was

no time to waste and called on people across Perth to consider the Government’s motives for shutting down the industry.

“We know there are activists that will call for cattle exports, chemicals and other farming practices to be banned next and they won’t stop there. We’re saying to people of Perth – will the Government come for your job next?”

Unprecedented Move Refecting Industry Unity

NFF President David Jochinke emphasized that this unprecedented move shows a united front from the agriculture industry. He voiced the industry’s frustration and concern over the government’s policies, stating:

“Farmers, fshers, and foresters feel they are being treated with contempt as this Government pursues its single-minded policy agenda. There is a clear disconnect between what the Government is doing and what farmers need to remain proftable and productive. The Government says it’s listening, but today the agriculture sector reiterated its view – that farmers do not feel like they are being recognized.”

Critique of Government Policies Jochinke highlighted several issues, including the government’s approach to the live sheep export ban, which he described as the fnal straw. He criticized the government for implementing policies that he believes align with inner-city voter preferences but neglect rural and regional communities.

“We’ve seen a number of seriously harmful policies from this Government now. We say to the Government: Stop with the poor policy and red tape. Stop taking away our markets, our water, our workers, our land.”

Call for Government Support

Jochinke expressed a

desire for a government that supports the growth and potential of the agricultural sector:

“We can be Australia’s next $100 billion industry. We can continue to sustainably grow Australia’s export income, create new jobs in our cities and regions, and reinvest in our landscapes – but we need a Government that backs us, not diminishes us. Instead of building the value of our industry, this Government’s policies will directly strip billions from farm output over the coming years. They’ve taken away water, shut down markets, added new taxes, and blocked workers. It’s a recipe to kill off economic activity and grow less Aussie food and fbre.”

Farmers’ Frustration and Simple Request

Jochinke concluded by expressing the farmers’ deep frustration and simple request to the government:

“Farmers are furious, frustrated, and they are hurting. But most of all, they just want to get on with the job of growing the food and fbre we all need. What we are asking the Government is actually very simple: to keep farmers farming.”

This strong stance from the NFF underscores the critical challenges facing the agricultural sector and the urgent need for government policies that support, rather than hinder, Australia’s farmers.

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.

Greece, with its sun-kissed beaches, turquoise waters, and rich history, is the epitome of a dream destination. Island-hopping in Greece offers an unparalleled experience of exploring stunning islands, each with its unique charm. From the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos to the serene landscapes of Santorini, the Greek islands have something for everyone. This guide will provide you with essential information to plan your island-hopping adventure, including the best time to visit, ways to get around, planning your itinerary, quick travel tips, and a budget breakdown.

Cyclades Islands

When you picture Greek islands, chances are you’re picturing the Cyclades. Everything about this group of islands in the Aegean Sea is iconic—from the blue-domed churches to the stunning sunsets. Santorini and Mykonos are the most famous, but don’t miss the charm of islands like Paros and Naxos.

Dodecanese Islands

The Dodecanese, infuenced by Italian rule until 1948, boast picturesque landscapes and quaint villages. Rhodes and Kos are the largest and most well-known, but smaller islands like Symi and Patmos offer serene beauty and rich history.

The Best Time to Visit

The ideal time for island-hopping in Greece is from late April to early October. During this period, the weather is warm, the sea is perfect for swimming, and the islands are bustling with activities. July and August are peak tourist months, which means higher prices and crowded spots. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting in May, June, or September. These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the islands without the hustle and bustle of peak season.

Best Way

to Get

Around Ferries: The most popular and scenic way to travel between the Greek islands is by

ferry. The Greek ferry system is extensive and well-connected, making it easy to hop from one island to another.

Companies like Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, and SeaJets offer regular services. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

Flights: For longer distances or timesaving, domestic fights are available between major islands and Athens.

Airlines such as Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air offer frequent fights.

Rental Boats: For a more personalised experience, renting a boat or a yacht can be a fantastic option. This gives you the freedom to explore hidden coves and less accessible islands at your own pace.

Local Transport:

Ionian Islands

Located west of mainland Greece in the Ionian Sea, this group of beautiful islands is known for its lush vegetation, natural beauty, and cosmopolitan vibe. Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos are top picks, offering a mix of history, culture, and stunning beaches.

Sporades Islands

Made up of four main islands and several smaller uninhabited ones, this group is located in the centre of the Aegean Sea. Skiathos and Skopelos are famous for their stunning beaches and lush landscapes, making them ideal for a relaxed family holiday.

Once on the islands, getting around is easy with local buses, taxis, or by renting scooters, ATVs, or cars. Scooters and ATVs are particularly popular for their affordability and convenience.

Quick Tips Before You Travel to Greece

• Visa and Documentation: Ensure you have the necessary visa and travel documents. EU citizens can travel freely, while others may need a Schengen visa.

• Currency: The currency in Greece is the Euro (¤). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

• Language: Greek is the offcial language,

but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

• Health and Safety: Tap water is safe to drink in most places, but bottled water is recommended on some islands. Healthcare facilities are generally good, but it’s wise to have travel insurance.

• Packing Essentials: Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

• Local Etiquette: Greeks are known for their hospitality. Learn a few basic Greek phrases like “Kalimera” (Good morning) and “Efharisto” (Thank you) to show appreciation.

Budget for Each Day

Saronic Islands

Situated in the Saronic Gulf, this island group is the closest to Athens. It is one of the most diverse groups, with a range of rich history, neoclassical architecture, monasteries, and churches. Hydra and Spetses, two of the most popular islands in this group, are car-free, adding to their charm.

With wild and rugged landscapes and traditional architecture, this group of islands represents an authentic side of Greece. Chios, Lesvos, and Samos are perfect for those seeking to explore less-touristy destinations.

Your daily budget for island-hopping in Greece can vary based on your travel style. Here’s a breakdown for a midrange traveller:

• Accommodation: ¤50-¤100 per night for a comfortable hotel or Airbnb.

• Food and Drinks: ¤30-¤50 per day for meals at local tavernas and cafes.

• Transport: ¤10¤30 per day for local transport (buses, taxis, scooters) and inter-island ferry tickets.

• Activities and Entrance Fees: ¤10¤30 per day for visiting attractions, museums, and guided tours.

• Miscellaneous: ¤10-¤20 per day for souvenirs, tips, and other expenses.

Total daily budget: ¤110-¤230

For a more budget-

friendly trip, consider staying in hostels, eating at budget-friendly eateries, and taking advantage of free attractions and activities.

Get Hoping!

Island-hopping in Greece is a magical experience that offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, you can create unforgettable memories exploring the stunning Greek islands. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a pristine beach, exploring ancient ruins, or savouring delicious Greek cuisine, each island has something unique and enchanting to offer. So pack your bags, set sail, and let the beauty of Greece captivate your heart.

North Aegean Islands

How Powerful Is an Australian Passport?

The Australian passport is often regarded as one of the most powerful travel documents in the world. This reputation is well-deserved, given the signifcant freedom and advantages it offers its holders. But what makes the Australian passport so powerful? Let’s explore the various aspects that contribute to its strength and the benefts it brings to Australian citizens.

One of the primary indicators of a passport’s power is the number of countries its holders can visit without needing a visa. The Australian passport is consistently ranked highly in global passport indexes, often placing within the top ten. As of 2024, Australian passport holders can travel to over 180 countries either visa-free or with visaon-arrival privileges. This ease of access simplifes international travel, making it more convenient for Australians to explore the world for leisure, business, and education.

Visa-free access means that Australian citizens can enter a country without obtaining a visa beforehand. This beneft is available in many desirable destinations across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa. For example, Australians can travel to the United Kingdom, most of the European Union countries, Japan, South Korea, and many others without a visa. This not only saves time and money but also eliminates the often tedious visa application process.

required by the United States and Canada, are electronic authorisations that can be easily applied for online before travel. These options further enhance the fexibility and ease of traveling with an Australian passport.

In addition to visa-free access, Australian passport holders enjoy the convenience of visa-on-arrival and ETAs in several countries. Visa-on-arrival means that Australians can obtain a visa upon arrival at their destination, often through a straightforward process at the airport or border. ETAs, like those

Australia’s strong diplomatic relationships and its status as a stable, developed country contribute signifcantly to the power of its passport. Australian citizens are generally perceived positively abroad, and the passport itself is viewed as a secure and reliable document. The rigorous standards and security features implemented in Australian passports reduce the risk of fraud and misuse, reinforcing trust in the document.

Another critical aspect of the power of an Australian passport is the extensive consular support available

to its holders. The Australian government maintains a robust network of embassies, high commissions, and consulates around the world. These diplomatic missions provide vital assistance to Australians abroad, ranging from emergency support and legal aid to help in case of lost or stolen passports. This support network ensures that Australian citizens can receive help and protection no matter where they are in the world.

Australia allows its citizens to hold dual or multiple citizenships, which can enhance the power of the Australian passport. This fexibility enables Australians to beneft from the advantages of holding additional citizenships while retaining the privileges of their Australian passport. Dual citizenship can open up even more travel opportunities and access to various rights and services in other countries.

to Regional Agreements

Australia is part of several regional agreements that further boost the power of its passport. For instance, the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement allows Australians to live and work in New Zealand indefnitely without a visa, and vice versa. Similarly, Australia’s participation in the Asia-Pacifc Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travel Card scheme facilitates streamlined travel for businesspeople within the APEC region, offering expedited immigration processing and multiple entry privileges.

education, and economic stability. This positive international standing enhances the desirability of Australian citizenship and, by extension, its passport.

Power of

The strength of the Australian passport also refects the high quality of life and opportunities available to its citizens. Australia consistently ranks highly in global indices for quality of life, healthcare,

The Australian passport’s power lies in its extensive visa-free and visa-on-arrival access, its security and international reputation, and the comprehensive consular support available to its holders. Coupled with the benefts of dual citizenship and regional agreements, the Australian passport offers a signifcant degree of global mobility and convenience. For Australians, this translates into the freedom to travel, work, and live in numerous countries around the world with relative ease. Whether for leisure, business, or education, holding an Australian passport opens up a world of opportunities and experiences, making it one of the most powerful passports globally.

Uneven Price Growth Reshuffes Rankings of Australia’s Most Expensive Cities

In the ever-evolving landscape of Australia’s real estate market, Brisbane has emerged as the country’s secondmost expensive city, following a surge in home prices that propelled the Queensland capital to new record highs. According to the PropTrack Home Price Index, property prices continued their upward trajectory in May, with the median home value across Australia reaching unprecedented levels, showcasing the enduring strength of the housing sector despite broader economic fuctuations.

The latest data reveals a varied picture across the nation’s capital cities, with six cities witnessing increases in home values, while four—Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide— set new price records. Brisbane’s remarkable ascent in the rankings signals a reshuffing of the hierarchy among Australia’s capitals, with

the city now sharing the title of the nation’s second-most expensive capital with Canberra. Both cities boast a median home value of $834,000, encompassing both houses and units.

Brisbane’s rapid rise to prominence refects robust price growth, with values soaring by 0.67% in May alone.

This surge has catapulted the city’s housing market into the upper echelons of Australia’s real estate landscape, outpacing even Melbourne’s values for the frst time in over a decade.

The factors driving this unprecedented growth include heightened demand fuelled by interstate migration, coupled with a limited supply of available properties—a combination that has propelled Brisbane to the forefront of the nation’s housing market.

Concurrently, Canberra experienced a marginal decline of 0.21% in home values during the same period, contributing to the parity between the two cities. However, upon closer

examination of property types, Canberra’s houses retain their premium status, commanding a median value of $961,000, compared to Brisbane’s $930,000.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Australia’s housing market remains positive, albeit with a tempered pace of growth.

According to PropTrack senior economist Eleanor

Right now, Brisbane has way more people wanting to buy homes than there are homes for sale. This makes it a sellers’ market.

Conversely, Brisbane’s units have surpassed those in Canberra, with a median value of $632,000, outpacing Canberra’s $605,000—a testament to the evolving dynamics of urban housing preferences and affordability constraints. Despite Brisbane’s meteoric rise, Sydney maintains its status as Australia’s most expensive city, with prices rising by 0.42% in May, marking an impressive 7% increase over the past year. However, the pace of growth has moderated since February, as an infux of listings has provided buyers with increased options, albeit against the backdrop of persistently strong demand.

Creagh, the market continues to grapple with supply-demand imbalances, population growth dynamics, and tightening rental markets. Nevertheless, further price appreciation is anticipated in the coming months, albeit at a moderated pace relative to earlier in the year.

Beyond the metropolitan hubs, regional disparities in price growth emerge as a defning feature of Australia’s housing landscape. Perth emerges as the standout performer, with prices soaring by 20.58% over the past year, driven by robust buyer demand amidst constrained supply conditions. Similarly, Adelaide

witnesses substantial price growth, buoyed by its comparative affordability and robust demand dynamics in the city’s northern precincts. Conversely, Hobart’s housing market faces headwinds, with prices declining marginally, indicative of a protracted recovery from previous downturns. Yet, regional Tasmania presents a stark contrast, with home values reaching new peaks, underscoring the resilience and divergent trajectories within the broader Tasmanian property market.

In sum, Australia’s housing market undergoes a paradigm shift, with Brisbane’s ascent to the echelons of the nation’s priciest cities emblematic of the dynamic forces reshaping urban housing dynamics. As the sector navigates evolving demand-supply dynamics and regional nuances, the trajectory of Australia’s housing market remains a pivotal determinant of broader economic resilience and prosperity.

Fair Work Commission Announces 3.75% Increase in Australia’s Minimum and Award Wages

By Jeff Gibbs

In a significant move aimed at bolstering the economic security of Australian workers, the Fair Work Commission (FWC) has announced a 3.75% increase in both the minimum and award wages, effective from July 1. This decision, following extensive deliberation, reflects a multifaceted approach to address prevailing cost-of-living challenges while fostering equitable economic growth.

The national minimum wage is set to rise to $24.10 per hour and $915.91 per week, based on a standard 38-hour workweek. This increment, amounting to approximately $33 extra per week, is poised to benefit approximately 2.6 million workers nationwide, constituting approximately 20.7% of the Australian workforce.

The FWC’s decision is underpinned by a thorough assessment of prevailing economic conditions, with a keen focus on ensuring that wage adjustments align with forecasted wages growth for the year 2024.

This strategic approach seeks to strike a balance between addressing immediate cost-of-living pressures and facilitating sustainable wage growth in the long term. Furthermore, the commission’s rationale acknowledges the

real wage boost, the decision aims to uplift the economic wellbeing of these segments of the workforce, thereby fostering greater income equality.

However, the FWC’s deliberations also took into account the broader

sustained growth and stability.

In response to the ruling, stakeholders from various quarters have articulated their perspectives. The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) has welcomed the

grappling with existing margin pressures.

For SME owners like Edward Clayton, the wage increase presents a dual-edged dilemma. While recognizing the imperative of fair wages to address cost-of-living pressures and retain a

unique vulnerabilities faced by workers reliant on modern award minimum wages. These employees, often engaged in part-time, casual, or predominantly female-dominated roles, constitute a significant portion of those affected by the wage increase. By providing a modest

economic landscape, recognizing the diverse impacts of the wage increase across different industries and sectors. While overall labour market conditions remain robust, certain sectors face distinct challenges, necessitating a nuanced approach to wage adjustments to ensure

decision, hailing it as a significant victory for workers’ rights and economic justice. Conversely, business organizations have expressed apprehensions regarding the potential impact on operational costs, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

motivated workforce, he also confronts the challenge of balancing increased labor costs with maintaining competitive pricing strategies.

Against this backdrop, Treasury Secretary Steven Kennedy has emphasized the importance of

ensuring that wage growth remains in line with inflation, thereby safeguarding macroeconomic stability. While the wage increase serves as a crucial mechanism to address immediate affordability concerns for workers, policymakers remain vigilant against potential inflationary risks, underscoring the imperative of productivity-driven growth to support sustainable economic outcomes.

As the wage increase takes effect, its ripple effects are poised to reverberate across the economic landscape, shaping consumer spending patterns, business operations, and overall market dynamics. While providing muchneeded relief for workers grappling with escalating living expenses, the decision underscores the intricate interplay between wage policies, economic resilience, and the pursuit of inclusive prosperity for all Australians.

How Australian Women Entrepreneurs are Defying the Odds to Build Successful Businesses

One-third of Australian businesses are led by women, and this number is steadily increasing. Women entrepreneurs in Australia are not only more educated than their male counterparts but are also pioneering innovations in social impact and environmental sustainability. However, significant barriers persist, including gaps in opportunities, networks, resources, and investment.

Key Findings from the Women’s Agenda Report

A new report from Women’s Agenda, in partnership with Commonwealth Bank and CommBank Women in Focus, sheds light on the challenges and opportunities for women entrepreneurs in Australia.

The report, which surveyed over 1,000 women business owners

and startup founders in April 2024, highlights the following:

1. Optimism and Determination: Despite the challenges, 75% of respondents are focused on expansion, and over half plan to hire new talent within the next year.

2. Social Impact: A significant 56% of women-led businesses are dedicated to making a positive impact in

areas such as care, health, social justice, and combating family violence.

3. Economic Challenges: Inflation and the cost of living are major hurdles, with 74% citing these as primary challenges to growth. Additionally, over a third of respondents feel that current government policies negatively impact their businesses.

4. Talent Shortages:

More than one in five women entrepreneurs are struggling with finding and retaining talent.

5. Gender-Based Barriers: Bias from prospective investors and unpaid care obligations are additional burdens for women founders.

Expert Insights and Strategies

Julie Mathers, CEO of Snuggle Hunny, sees current economic challenges

as opportunities for entrepreneurs to become more focused on their businesses. She believes that surviving the current “storm” will make businesses stronger and more resilient.

Dr. Elaine Stead, a venture capitalist with Main Sequence, emphasizes the importance of networks.

She advises women entrepreneurs to leverage their networks for support and survival during tough economic times. She underscores that the first priority for small business owners should be to survive the immediate challenges before focusing on growth.

Opportunities and Support Networks

The report highlights that access to networks is the top driver of success for female founders. Over 80% of respondents identified their biggest

support as a network that includes other women entrepreneurs, stakeholders invested in their success, and supportive personal connections. This finding underscores the importance of relationship-building in business.

Conclusion Despite facing numerous challenges, Australian women entrepreneurs are demonstrating resilience and optimism. Their commitment to innovation and social impact, combined with their determination to overcome barriers, is driving their businesses forward. The findings from the Women’s Agenda report reveal that with the right support, networks, and resources, women-led businesses can thrive even in challenging economic climates.

Australians Pushing Retirement into Their 70s Amid Cost of Living Crisis

New research commissioned by Equip Super reveals that only a quarter (26%) of Australian workers plan to retire at 65, with many opting to work longer due to fnancial pressures. On average, those delaying retirement are extending their working years by six, often pushing retirement into their 70s. Nearly four in ten (39%) cited the rising cost of living as the primary reason for this delay.

The research also highlights that 85% of Australians are becoming more cautious about their spending. Paul Stocker, Head of Advice at Equip Super, emphasized the importance of strategic fnancial planning in meeting retirement goals. “Coping with the escalating cost of living is a shared concern for many Australians. We understand the

fnancial diffculties people encounter while planning for retirement, and we sympathize with those who are delaying retirement. By adopting strategic planning efforts, we aim to help Australians retire when they choose to, rather than when they are forced to.”

“In times like these, it’s essential to have a solid fnancial plan in place, and managing your super

is a crucial aspect of that plan,” said Mr. Stocker. “All Equip Super members have access to free general super advice at no additional cost as part of their membership. Members can also consult fnancial planners to design a comprehensive fnancial plan. These tools help navigate uncertain times, and alongside regular contributions to your Super account, a

retirement plan provides confdence that you can meet your retirement goals, enabling a comfortable retirement at whatever age you decide.”

Survey respondents listed their current top fnancial priorities, with covering living costs and growing savings at the forefront, followed closely by mortgage repayments. The results also showed that

three-quarters (75%) of Australians view their super as a crucial part of securing their fnancial future.

Mr. Stocker acknowledged the anxiety surrounding retirement savings in challenging economic times but urged individuals to seek expert advice to plan for a successful next chapter of their lives. “If people take the right steps today, they should not have to work longer than they want to,” he said.

Equip Super’s survey, which questioned over 2,000 Australians randomly selected across the nation, illustrates the fnancial pressures being felt by many households due to rising infation, interest rates, and higher costs of living.

Diane Benham, a 70-year-old Sydney resident, shared her experience of delaying retirement. “I started working at 15, and now at 70, I am still working 20 hours a week. While our fnancial situation is generally stable, there are things we’d like to do when we retire, like travel. Delaying retirement wasn’t always part of my plan, but with expenses rising, it’s slightly worrying to think about life without an income. We just don’t know what’s around the corner. Although we’re fortunate to own our home, there are ongoing maintenance costs, and everything from shopping to car expenses keeps increasing. Every time you go to the shops, it seems to cost more money. When I fnally decide to retire, it is essential that my superannuation provides me with a secure future, but also allows us to enjoy it.”

Byron Bay RDE - Regional Disability Expo with Bonus Seniors Expo Just 4 Weeks Away!

The Byron Bay community is abuzz with anticipation as it prepares to host the inaugural RDERegional Disability Expo, featuring a Bonus Seniors Expo. This highly anticipated event aims to provide essential resources to individuals living with disabilities, seniors in regional areas, and their dedicated

caregivers. In many regional areas, individuals with disabilities and seniors often face signifcant challenges in accessing the necessary support and services that are readily available in larger cities. The primary obstacle is often a lack of awareness about the National Disability Insurance

Scheme (NDIS), as well as local services and resources, leading to unnecessary hardships and long journeys to metropolitan areas.

Did you know there is a wealth of resources available to these communities, often hidden in plain sight?

The key lies in knowing where to look!

Sharon Fulwood, a

Queensland mother of two disabled children—Jake, who has Spina Bifda, and Ryan, who copes with multiple conditions including Autism— understands these struggles all too well. Her journey navigating the complexities of the disability sector to secure essential support for her children has inspired her to share her insights and knowledge with others in similar situations. As an experienced event manager, Sharon has channelled her passion into organizing the RDE - Regional Disability Expo, with the goal of ensuring that regional families can readily access the support they desperately need.

The RDE - Regional Disability Expo with Bonus Seniors Expo is

designed to unite and empower the disability and seniors’ community. It provides a platform to celebrate, learn, share, and experience the latest advancements in technologies that cater to individuals living with disabilities, the elderly, their families, caregivers, and friends.

“We’ve gathered a wide range of services and suppliers catering to both the disability and aged care sectors, including wheelchairs and aids, sport and ftness equipment, hearing aids, NDIS services, and health services for individuals of all ages,” said Sharon Fulwood.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to enhance your knowledge, explore new possibilities, and connect with a vibrant community of like-

minded individuals.

To register for FREE attendance at the RDE - Regional Disability Expo with Bonus Seniors Expo, please visit Register Here https://form.jotform. com/232331176901853 Expo Details Byron Bay RDERegional Disability Expo with Bonus Seniors Expo

• Date: Friday, July 5, 2024

• Venue: Cavanbah Centre, 249 Ewingsdale Rd, Byron Bay

• Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00

PM Join us to discover valuable resources and connect with a supportive community committed to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities and seniors in regional areas.

70-year-old Sydney resident Diane Benham is one of a growing number of Australians choosing to delay their retirement, with the rising cost of living blamed as a factor

Should You Consider Self-Insurance? Plus Other Tips to Save: CHOICE

Consumer group

CHOICE has found that many Australians faced signifcant increases in their health insurance premiums in April, with some rising as much as 17%, far above the annual average industry-wide increase of 3.03%.

“CHOICE reviewed over 24,000 policies with hospital cover and found Gold policies had the highest premium increases, averaging over 10% for HBF, HCF, HIF, and Australian Unity policies. One Gold policy in Western Australia even saw a 17% hike,” said CHOICE health insurance expert Jodi Bird.

“With these sky-high increases, it’s worth reviewing your health insurance to ensure you’re only paying for what you need and getting the best possible price,” Bird added.

CHOICE’s Top Tips for Saving on Your Health Insurance

Drop Gold Hospital Insurance

“Gold hospital cover has

become too expensive. If you have a specifc condition usually covered by Gold policies and want to use the private hospital system, look for a Silver Plus policy or consider self-insurance.”

Self-insurance involves saving money yourself to cover private health costs as they arise. If you don’t need any health treatment, your savings will grow.

“In some cases, opting to self-fund your health care can be the better-value option,” Bird explained. For example, cataract surgery, a common procedure in Australia, is often only covered by the most expensive Gold policies.

CHOICE’s analysis showed that the annual cost of top-cover health insurance could exceed the out-of-pocket cost for a private cataract procedure.

“This option may suit those with few health issues who do not anticipate unexpected health events. Ensure you have money set

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aside in case you require a surgical procedure or treatment in the private system,” Bird advised.

Compare Policies to Find a Good Deal

“We recommend comparing policies to fnd the best value for your needs. The same cover with a different insurer may save you hundreds of dollars a year. Look beyond the well-known big funds and consider smaller funds; switching to a smaller fund often provides a cheaper deal,” said Bird.

“If you’re unsure where to start, CHOICE has an independent health insurance comparison tool that allows you to compare thousands of policies from over 40 insurers,” Bird suggested.

Do You Need Extras Insurance?

“The value of extras insurance depends on the individual. It can be worth purchasing if it pays out more than the premiums you pay,” Bird noted.

“If you need extras insurance, shop around and buy your extras from a different provider than your standard hospital cover if you fnd a better deal,” Bird recommended. Compare health insurance policies here: CHOICE Health Insurance Comparison Tool.

The Australian Government should reduce regulatory burdens on superannuation accounts in retirement to save tens of thousands of retirees from paying multiple sets of super fees and to provide greater fexibility for those who wish to continue working in retirement, according to the Super Members Council.

Currently, a cumbersome rule forces Australians who wish to engage in part-time work after retirement to open an additional super account for their contributions. This prevents them from making payments directly into their existing retirement super accounts.

To simplify and enhance fexibility in retirement, the Government should end the prohibition on receiving contributions from part-time work or other sources into retirement (decumulation) phase accounts.

The Super Members Council estimates that approximately 100,000 retirees would beneft from this change.

This outdated law adds unnecessary complexity to retirement, causing some retirees to pay two sets of fees and often more tax than necessary. Recent consumer research commissioned by the Super Members Council found that one in four Australians continues to work into their early 70s, highlighting the need for a more adaptable system.

“As more than 2.5 million Australians approach retirement in the next decade, the focus needs to be on making the system easier, simpler, and more fexible,” said Super Members Council CEO Misha Schubert.

“Increasingly, many Australians want to dip back into the workforce from time to time after they start their ‘capital R’ retirement. But instead of making that process easy, they currently must open a second super fund account, face the administrative hassle of transferring money, and pay extra fees—potentially more tax—than necessary.”

“The easy fx is to legislate for Australians to make super contributions from part-time work and other sources directly into their retirement account. This simple reform would make retirement easier and more fexible for tens of thousands of Australians.”

Deidentifed data from a large Super Members Council member fund shows that around one quarter of their members in retirement set up new accounts to accept contributions and then commute to a new retirement income account. The number of members doing this increased by 45% between 2022 and 2023. The change would require a minor legislative update to the Superannuation Industry Supervision Act and adjustments to associated regulations. The Super Members Council does

not propose changes to the pre-tax super contribution settings.

To streamline retirement while maintaining fexibility for retirees, the Government should:

• Swiftly consult and legislate the retirement and super component of the fnancial advice reform package before the end of this year.

• Make it easier for members to switch into retirement products and end the current ban on adding contributions to a retirement-phase super account.

• With member permission, notify super funds about their members’ eligibility for pensions and other government supports, enabling tailored information on maximizing retirement income.

• Develop a comprehensive retirement test for super products that measures investment performance, fexibility in accessing funds, and control over the level of risk.

• Avoid mandating the use of annuities for members. Trustees are best placed to create investment strategies for their members.

The Super Members Council advocates for over 11 million Australians, managing more than $1.5 trillion in retirement savings through proft-tomember superannuation funds. The council aims to protect and advance their interests, ensuring that superannuation policy remains stable, effective, and equitable.

Nissan Keeps All Options Open for Qashqai SUV: Petrol, Hybrid, and Electric

By Jeff Gibbs

Nissan is set to maintain a versatile approach for its Qashqai SUV, continuing to offer petrol, hybrid, and electric powertrains to cater to varying market demands. While the next-generation allelectric Qashqai is on the horizon, Australia is likely to continue with petrol and e-Power options for the time being.

Continued Production of All Powertrains

Nissan’s Sunderland plant in the UK will keep producing the Qashqai for global markets, complemented by production in Dalian, China, for the local market with partner Dongfeng. The Sunderland facility supplies Qashqais to over 100 countries, including Australia. Speaking to Australian media, Nissan’s Senior Vice-President and Chief Planning Offcer for the AMIEO (Africa, Middle East, India, Europe, and Oceania) region, Francois Bailly, confrmed that the electric Qashqai will not replace existing models

but will be produced concurrently to meet diverse market needs.

Electrifcation Strategy and Market Adaptation

market readiness for electrifcation. “The markets around the world are so diverse, there’s a speed of electrifcation

at the same time in different markets,” he said. However, he did not confrm the all-electric Qashqai for Australia

relatively low EV market share in the region.

Current and Future Qashqai Offerings in Australia

Bailly emphasized the variability in

that we could imagine different technologies

specifcally, noting the growing but still

In Australia, the Qashqai is available with two powertrain options:

• A 110kW/250Nm 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine.

• A 140kW/330Nm e-Power range-extender hybrid, which pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor driving the front wheels.

For emissions-restricted markets like Europe, the Sunderland factory also

builds a mild-hybrid version.

The facelifted Qashqai, expected to arrive in Australian showrooms by the end of the year, will likely retain the current powertrain options. It will feature updated exterior styling, improved cabin materials, and a new Google-powered infotainment system, although the latter is yet to be confrmed for Australia.

Investment and Production Plans

To prepare for the new all-electric Qashqai, Nissan has invested an additional £30 million ($AU57.7 million) in the Sunderland plant to accommodate the installation of heavy battery packs and highvoltage components. The Qashqai EV will share the production line with the internal combustion engine and e-Power hybrid versions, as well as the Juke small SUV and the upcoming new-generation Leaf crossover. This strategy allows for a seamless transition from the current Qashqai to the new models, ensuring continuous production of the popular SUV.

In conclusion, Nissan’s multipronged approach with the Qashqai ensures that the SUV remains adaptable to market trends and consumer needs, offering a blend of petrol, hybrid, and electric options. This fexibility positions the Qashqai to effectively meet the demands of diverse global markets, including Australia.

Cadillac’s Future Sedans: Embracing Electric Power

By Jeff Gibbs

Cadillac, the luxury arm of General Motors (GM), has reaffrmed its commitment to sedans, hinting at a future where these models could be electric. This revelation was made by Mike Simcoe, GM’s Vice President of Global Design, during a recent media roundtable.

Simcoe, an Australian and former design boss of Holden, emphasized that while SUVs dominate the market, sedans remain a vital part of Cadillac’s future, potentially powered by batteries.

A New Generation of Sedans

Despite the industry’s heavy lean towards SUVs, Cadillac is preparing to introduce a new generation of sedans. These models will be a key part of Cadillac’s lineup in the coming years, according to Simcoe. “We will certainly have a sedan in the portfolio at some point in the future,” he confrmed. This statement underscores

Cadillac’s intention to diversify its offerings beyond the ubiquitous SUV trend.

The Celestiq: Cadillac’s Luxury Electric Sedan Cadillac already offers the Celestiq, an electric vehicle that it refers to as a sedan. However, the Celestiq, priced at $US340,000 ($AU520,000), is designed to compete with ultra-luxury brands like Rolls-Royce and Bentley. This places it out of reach for most consumers, signalling Cadillac’s ambition to produce more affordable

electric sedans that can cater to a broader market segment.

The Need for Affordable Electric Sedans

Simcoe indicated that while the luxury market appreciates high-end electric sedans like the Celestiq, there is a signifcant opportunity for more affordable electric sedans within Cadillac’s lineup. He remarked on the dominance of SUVs, calling them a “necessary evil” due to their market prevalence and practicality. However,

Simcoe pointed out that many consumers, particularly those with higher disposable incomes, still desire a second vehicle that isn’t an SUV. This opens the door for sedans, especially those that are electrically powered.

Current Sedan Offerings and Performance Models At present, Cadillac’s sedan lineup in North America includes the CT4 and CT5. These models, particularly their performance variants, are powered by twin-turbo V6 and supercharged V8

engines, aiming to rival BMW’s M3 and M5.

These sedans showcase Cadillac’s commitment to performance and luxury, a tradition it aims to continue even as it shifts towards electric powertrains.

Cadillac’s Return to Australia and Electric Future

Conclusion

Cadillac’s reaffrmation of its commitment to sedans, coupled with its strategic pivot towards electric vehicles, highlights the brand’s adaptive and forwardthinking approach. By continuing to innovate in the sedan segment and introducing more accessible electric models, Cadillac aims to maintain its legacy of luxury and performance. As the automotive industry evolves, Cadillac’s blend of tradition and innovation positions it well to meet the demands of modern consumers and sustain its competitive edge in the luxury market.

In a signifcant move, Cadillac announced its return to the Australian market in late 2024. This return is marked by an exclusive offering of electric vehicles, aligning with the global shift towards sustainable transportation. While Cadillac previously committed to transitioning to an allelectric lineup by 2030, recent updates indicate that petrol-powered models will continue to be manufactured into the new decade. This dual approach allows Cadillac to cater to diverse market needs while progressing towards a greener future.

BYD Sets Third Australian Sales Record in Four Months

By Jeff Gibbs

In a signifcant achievement, BYD has set its third Australian sales record in four months, with close to 2000 electric vehicles sold last month. The momentum is set to increase further with the introduction of a new range of hybrid cars.

Record-Breaking Sales Performance

BYD’s sales in Australia continue to soar, driven by the growing demand for Chinese-branded cars. The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) reported that 1914 BYD electric vehicles were sold in May 2024, marking a 32% increase compared to May of the previous year. This remarkable performance underscores BYD’s rapid expansion and acceptance in the Australian market.

Upcoming Hybrid Models

The boost in BYD sales is expected to be further amplifed by the upcoming launch of a

new range of plug-in hybrid vehicles. This range includes a family SUV, the Sealion 6, and a utility vehicle (ute), both of which were announced last month. Although deliveries of the Sealion 6 plug-in hybrid SUV have not yet started, anticipation is high, and its introduction is expected to drive sales even higher.

Top Sellers and Market Dynamics

In May 2024, the majority of BYD’s reported sales were electric vehicles, with the Seal sedan leading the pack at 1002 units sold. This was followed by the Atto 3 with 737 units, despite a year-on-year decline of 49%, and the Dolphin with 175 units. BYD’s previous best monthly sales were recorded in March 2024 with 1622 deliveries, and in February 2024 with 1549 vehicles.

Despite BYD’s impressive performance, Tesla remains a formidable competitor, delivering nearly twice

as many cars as BYD in May 2024, totaling 3567 vehicles. However, BYD’s sales trajectory is notable, with a 67% increase over the frst fve months of 2024 compared to the same period in the previous year. This growth positions BYD to potentially surpass 20,000 deliveries by the end of the year, though this falls short of their goal to double sales year-on-year.

Rapid Market Penetration

BYD’s rapid market penetration is unprecedented for a new automotive brand in Australia. It took BYD

just one year and seven months to report more than 1900 new vehicles sold in a month. In contrast, other emerging brands such as MG, LDV, and GWM took signifcantly longer to achieve the same milestone, highlighting BYD’s exceptional growth rate.

Industry-Wide Trends

The rise in electric vehicle deliveries in Australia is part of a broader trend. Year-todate, electric car sales have increased by 26.8%, totalling 40,636 vehicles. This follows a temporary dip in April 2024, the

frst since the pandemic.

Electric vehicles accounted for 8% of new vehicle sales in May 2024, refecting their growing popularity. Similarly, plug-in hybrid sales have surged by 118% year-to-date, reaching 6099 deliveries. Although starting from a lower base, this growth indicates a strong interest in hybrid technology among Australian consumers.

China’s Position in the Market

China remains the third-largest source of new motor vehicles sold in Australia, trailing only

Japan and Thailand. This places China ahead of other major automotive exporters like South Korea, Germany, and the United States. Sales of Chinese-made vehicles have risen by 7.9% year-to-date compared to the same period last year, further solidifying China’s role in the Australian automotive market.

Conclusion BYD’s continued success and rapid growth in the Australian market illustrate a signifcant shift in consumer preferences towards electric and hybrid vehicles. With new models on the horizon and a strong sales trajectory, BYD is wellpositioned to capitalize on the growing demand for environmentally friendly transportation options. This momentum not only sets a new benchmark for emerging automotive brands but also contributes to the broader adoption of sustainable technologies in Australia.

The Celestiq: Cadillac’s Luxury Electric Sedan

The BYD Ocean M hot-hatch may make it to Australia

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Trump brings porn into disrepute.

No-one is above the law’, Biden crowed, except Donald Trump will likely successfully appeal his conviction and we’ll remember if you have enough money, no law is above you.

Fair enough, the law is fne, we all just wish we had more money.

But the Trump thing is confusing (yes, and disgusting, but that’s another column).

If he’s after publicity, surely he couldn’t do much

Hesketh Adelaide Hills Lobethal Chardonnay 2022, $30. Lobethal, and neighbouring Lenswood are famous for apples and other chilly fruits so why not chardonnay? There is a hint of apple about this too, with other bits all in nice moderation. 9.3/10.

Hesketh Barossa Valley

better than being exposed in front of the entire country that he had exposed himself to a porn star?

And sorry, I haven’t heard Stormy Daniels’ transcript, so not sure what happened, but let’s just imagine… actually, let’s not. Anyway, why would you try to hide such good publicity? Unless paying thousands in hush-money was an even bigger publicity stunt. A stormy evening with Stormy is over in seconds but scandals last forever.

‘Ebenezer’ Shiraz 2021, $34. Ebenezer sounds so biblical, but with better connotations than say Ezekial, or Methuselah which sound a bit Old Testament and, well, just old. Thankfully Ebenezer conjures classic Barossan shiraz, which this one is. 9.4/10.

Then, if we contrive to conceal the payments in some way, say claim it on your tax as charitable donations (close), thus lie to authorities about it, which looks suspiciously like you are trying to infuence an election outcome, it’s an even bigger publicity stunt, plus you can blame it on Joe Biden, saying it’s a witch hunt and rigged!

Now that is next level marketing, and the media have taken it hooker, line and sinker.

Hesketh Clare Valley Watervale Riesling 2023, $25. 2024 has been picked by now, so make room in the fridge by removing last year’s. Ample acidity to feel grown up but not so much that you can’t have it on its own, although fsh and chips would work if you’re hungry. 9.3/10.

The funny bit is, the whole tawdry saga has probably not won Trump any new votes, nor turned anyone away from him that wasn’t already. His supporters are like National Party voters who have voted the same way since white settlement/invasion, except while the latter will die out from natural attrition, Trump supporters have guns, and are the type of people who are good with them, yet the least likely to understand the meaning of the words

Howard Park WA Sauvignon Blanc, 2023, $32. Same price as last year’s, haven’t they heard of infation? Not quite the punch of last year’s which will suit those unenamoured with the bright bite that SBs can embody. 9.1/10. Howard Park Great

truth and restraint. That is a worry.

Maybe not so much in America?

Kennedy had liaisons with Marilyn, Clinton did not have relations with Monica, and Trump paid a porn star called Stormy. Does that industry have no self-respect?

Anyway, if legalities won’t sway voters, and Trump won’t go to gaol (if only because of the fashion clash with the orange suits and he could still be President regardless),

Southern Riesling 2023, $35. You can tell from the frst sniff and mouthful that this is relatively expensive riesling. I say relatively because as far as delicious wines go, $35 is very cheap. It tastes as if made with love and care. 9.5/10.

Howard Park Great Southern (Mount Barker)

surely hearing all the sordid details about the sexual encounters of a 78-yearold, obese, white man with weird, orange hair, would encourage Americans to vote for someone else?

If the government is looking for the best way to keep kids away from porn, surely this is it?

You might think this is the perfect opportunity to look at some orange wines, but nah, when faced with a choice, it’s just not my favourite colour.

Museum Release Riesling 2018, $35. If the latest vintage is fabulous value this is next level value. Fancy keeping something in a storage shed for six years and not having to pay anything! I can only wish we lived next door to Howard Park. 9.6/10.

Max Crus

BREAKFAST EGG AND HAM MUFFINS

VEGETARIAN PAELL

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

• 4 slices tasty cheese

Preheat grill on medium. Lightly spray pan with oil. Heat over medium heat. Cook eggs for 4 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.

20m prep 45m cook 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

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

• 1 tsp fennel seeds

• 200g cavalo nero (Tuscan cabbage), stem removed, leaves shredded

• 2 thick slices Italian bread (pane di casa), lightly toasted, torn into chunks

• bunch baby carrots, peeled, trimmed

• 250g truss cherry tomatoes

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 300g packet vegan ‘chicken’ chunks

• 1 brown onion, fnely chopped

• 1 red capsicum, deseeded, cut into strips

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 220g (1 cup) arborio rice

• 1 small caulifower, cut into forets

BEEF RISSOLES WITH GRILLED POTATO AND SPINACH SALAD

• 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

• 625ml (2 1/2 cups) Vegetable Liquid Stock

• 150g (1 cup) frozen peas, thawed

• 60g (1 ⁄3 cup) pimento-stuffed green olives

• 2 tbsp chopped smoked almonds

• 2 tbsp fresh continental parsley leaves

15m prep 25m cook 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

• 4 medium red washed potatoes

• Finely chopped continental parsley, to serve

• Bouquet garni (4 fresh or dried bay leaves, 4 fresh sprigs thyme, 2 fresh sprigs rosemary)

METHOD

2 METHOD STEPS

• 2 tsp Whole Grain Mustard

• 2 tbsp White Wine Vinegar

Step 1

• 4 tbsp Olive Oil, plus 1-2 tsp for brushing

• 1/2 small brown onion, thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped

• 75g baby spinach

• 500g Beef Mince

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

• 1/2 small brown onion, fnely chopped

• 1 clove garlic, fnely chopped

• 1/2 tsp Paprika

• 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce

• 1 Egg

METHOD

almost tender.

Step 2

3. To make the dressing, mix mustard and white wine vinegar in a large bowl using a whisk. Slowly pour in the olive oil while whisking, until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Add onion and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.

4. For the rissoles, combine beef mince, onion, garlic, thyme, paprika, Worcestershire sauce and egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well and form into 8 round balls, then fatten into 1cm thick rissoles.

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.

5. Preheat BBQ or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush rissoles with oil and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Remove from heat and rest for 3 minutes.

1. Preheat oven to 200C/180C fan forced. Line a baking tray with baking paper. Place the carrot on prepared tray. Roast for 10 minutes. Add the tomatoes. Roast for 15 minutes or until vegetables are soft and lightly browned.

1. Place potatoes in medium saucepan and cover with water. Add a little salt. Bring to the boil and cook for 6 minutes, or until potatoes are tender but frm, being careful to not overcook them as they will be cooked again on the grill.

6. While rissoles are cooking, brush the potatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place on the grill and cook until grill marks are achieved and the potatoes are starting to brown, about 5 minutes. Turn occasionally.

“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.” - Auguste Escoffer

2. Drain the potatoes and return to the pan to dry and cool. Once cool enough to handle, cut into quarters.

7. Remove from grill and place in bowl with vinaigrette.

8. To serve, add the spinach to the potatoes and gently toss to coat. Divide evenly among 4 plates and serve alongside rissoles. Drizzle with any remaining dressing.

2. Meanwhile, heat 2 tbs of the oil in a large, shallow 25cm frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the ‘chicken’ chunks for 1 minute each side or until golden. Transfer to a plate and set aside. Heat the remaining oil in the same pan over medium heat. Cook the onion, stirring, for 5 minutes or until soft. Add the capsicum. Cook, stirring often, for 3 minutes or until soft. Add the garlic and paprika. Cook, stirring, for 30 seconds or until aromatic. Stir in the rice and caulifower.

3. Pour the stock into the pan and bring to a simmer. Cook, gently stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes. Tuck the ‘chicken’ chunks into the rice mixture and sprinkle the surface with the peas. Cook for a further 5 minutes or until the stock has absorbed. Cover and remove from heat. Set aside for 5 minutes to rest.

4. Serve the paella topped with carrot and tomatoes, olives, almonds and parsley.

Don’t Overthink Gardening

Gardening is often portrayed as a complex science requiring extensive knowledge and meticulous planning. While it’s true that understanding plant biology, soil chemistry, and weather patterns can enhance your gardening skills, it’s equally important to embrace simplicity. Overthinking gardening can turn a joyous activity into a stressful chore. Instead, focus on the basics and let nature guide you.

Embrace Nature’s Rhythm

One of the best ways to avoid overthinking gardening is to observe and follow the natural rhythms of the seasons. Plants have been growing on their own for millions

of years, adapting to the environment. Your role as a gardener is to facilitate this process rather than control it. Pay attention to what grows well in your area, and when. Local plants and fowers have evolved to thrive in your climate and soil, making them less fussy and more resilient.

Know Your Soil

Understanding your soil type is fundamental but doesn’t require a degree in chemistry. Basic soil types include sandy, clay, silt, and loam. You can determine your soil type by observing how it behaves when wet and dry. Sandy soil drains quickly but doesn’t hold nutrients well. Clay soil retains water and nutrients but can become

compacted. Loam is the ideal mix of sand, silt, and clay, offering good drainage and nutrient retention.

You can improve your soil without extensive testing by adding organic matter like compost. Composting kitchen scraps and garden waste provides a steady supply of rich, organic material that improves soil structure and fertility. This simple practice enhances your soil health without the need for constant monitoring and adjustment.

Start Small

A common mistake new gardeners make is to start too big. A large garden can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure what you’re doing. Start with a small plot or a few containers. This way, you can learn the basics without feeling overwhelmed. As you gain experience and confdence, you can gradually expand your garden.

Choose Easy Plants

Select plants that are easy to grow and maintain. Herbs like basil, mint, and parsley are great for beginners because they grow quickly and are forgiving of minor mistakes.

Vegetables like lettuce, radishes, and tomatoes are also relatively easy

to grow. For fowers, marigolds, sunfowers, and zinnias are hardy choices that provide vibrant colour with minimal effort.

Water Wisely Watering can be one of the most overthought aspects of gardening. Plants need water, but overwatering can be as harmful as under watering. The key is to water deeply and less frequently. This encourages roots to grow deeper, making plants more drought resistant. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil is dry. Early morning is the best time to water, as it reduces evaporation and gives plants time to dry off before evening, reducing the risk of disease.

Learn from Your Mistakes

Gardening is a continuous learning process, and mistakes are part of the journey. Instead of getting frustrated, view mistakes as learning opportunities. If a plant doesn’t thrive, analyse the possible reasons – it could be the wrong plant for the location, inadequate watering, or pest issues. Keep a garden journal to track what you planted, where, and how each plant performed. This simple practice will help

you understand what works best in your garden and avoid repeating mistakes.

Use Mulch

Mulch is a gardener’s best friend. It helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and adds organic matter to the soil as it decomposes. Mulching is a straightforward practice that yields signifcant benefts without requiring extensive effort or knowledge. Organic mulches like straw, wood chips, and leaves are ideal. Simply spread a layer of mulch around your plants and replenish it as needed.

Get to Know Your Garden

Spend time in your garden without a specifc agenda. Observe how plants grow, what insects visit, and how the light and shade move throughout the day. This connection with your garden will help you understand its unique ecosystem. The more time you spend in your garden, the more attuned you’ll become to its needs and rhythms.

Companion Planting

Companion planting is an age-old practice that involves growing certain plants together to beneft each other.

For example, planting basil near tomatoes can improve the favour of

tomatoes and repel pests. Marigolds are known to deter nematodes and other harmful insects. By understanding a few basic companion planting principles, you can naturally enhance your garden’s health and productivity without overthinking the process. Enjoy the Process

Ultimately, gardening should be an enjoyable and relaxing activity. Don’t let the fear of doing it wrong keep you from getting started. Nature is forgiving, and plants are resilient. Celebrate the successes, learn from the failures, and enjoy the time spent outdoors. Gardening connects you with nature and provides a sense of accomplishment and peace.

Keep It Simple

Don’ overthink gardening. Start small, choose easy plants, water wisely, and learn from your mistakes. Use mulch, practice companion planting, and, most importantly, enjoy the process. Let nature guide you and embrace the simplicity of gardening. With time and patience, you’ll fnd that a beautiful, productive garden is well within your reach.

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A/c Boland Family - EU Acc’ Coraki

50 Charolais X Weaners - Mixed Sex

A/c Les Hellyar - Kyogle

80 Charolais X Weaners - Mixed Sex

COMMUNITY NOTICES

WEATHER

Northern Rivers District:

Sunny. Winds west to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h tending west to southwesterly during the afternoon.

Thursday. Sunny. Light winds.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. Winds westerly 20 to 30 km/h increasing to 25 to 40 km/h during the morning then turning southwesterly 20 to 30 km/h during the afternoon.

Thursday. Sunny. Areas of morning frost. Winds south to southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h becoming light during the morning.

New South Wales:

A few showers along the southern and central ranges and adjacent western slopes, falling as snow on the Alpine peaks above 1400 metres. Dry and partly cloudy across the remainder of the inland, and mostly sunny along the coast. Daytime temperatures mostly near average. South to southwesterly winds, fresh to strong in the east.

Thursday. Chance of a shower along the Hunter coastal fringe, and about the far southern ranges, falling as snow on the Alpine peaks above 1200 metres. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere. Daytime temperatures mostly below average. South to southwesterly winds, fresh along the coast.

Byron Coast:

Winds: West to northwesterly 15 to 20 knots turning southwesterly 20 to 30 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres,

increasing to 1 to 2 metres offshore south of Yamba. Swell: Southerly around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the evening. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: West to northwesterly 15 to 20 knots turning southwesterly 20 to 30 knots during the day. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, increasing to 2 to 3 metres during the morning. Swell: Southerly around 1 metre, increasing to 2 to 3 metres during the afternoon or evening. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Gold Coast Waters:

Winds: West to northwesterly 15 to 20 knots turning southwesterly during the day. Seas: Below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore during the morning. Swell: Southerly around 1 metre. Weather: Sunny.

from back page

By Tim Howard

The crowd at Grafton Ghosts home ground, Frank McGuren Field were treated to a display of champagne football on Saturday hosting competition favourites the Nambucca Roosters.

Unfortunately for the home crowd most of the champagne was fowing from the Roosters who crushed the Ghosts 62-12.

Nambucca gave the Ghosts a taste of what was to come in the eighth minute when they were hot on attack in the Roosters quarter.

A loose pass fell into the hands of half Logan Jones who found speedy centre Dane Saunders sprinting onto the ball. He galloped 60 metres to score in the left corner. Fullback and kicker Tyronne Roberts-Davis missed the conversion.

Roberts Davis was in the action again a few minutes later as the Rooster found themselves attacking down the right side in the Ghosts end zone.

Two looping passes back to the left found RobertsDavis with the ball in centre feld.

He punched a grubber kick towards the goal line, which bounced over the fngers of winger Liam Bloomer, but into the arms of Roosters fyer Beau Langford, who touched down about fve metres in from touch on the left side of the feld.

This time Roberts-Davis was successful with the kick, giving the Roosters a 10-0 lead about 15 minutes in.

From the kick off the

Congratulations to Jo Powell from Grafton, who received her Australia cap before the Matildas’ Olympic sendoff match against China at ACCOR Stadium on Monday. Jo played for the Matildas from 1996 to 2000, during a pivotal era when women’s football was establishing itself as an international sport. Jo and her teammates were instrumental in paving

Ghosts enjoyed one of their few lucky breaks of the day.

Cooper Woods long kickoff hit the crossbar and bounced into the feld of play and Nambucca Jones fumbled his attempt pick up the loose ball.

Bloomer seized on the opportunity and skirted the defence to score in the right corner.

Woods’ kick from the sideline was successful with the Ghosts back in the game at 10-6.

But the advantage was short lived.

From the kick-off they surrendered possession on the frst tackle of the set giving Nambucca great feld position to work in.

They nearly blew it.

Their live-wire lock Jay Melrose was forced to clean up a sloppy pass from dummy half and as he wrestled with the defence, was able to slip a short ball to fve-eighth Tyreece Sines.

He dashed across feld and was able to reach out and put the ball across the line about 10m in from the right touch line.

Roberts-Davis converted for a 16-6 lead.

The Ghosts tried to hit back and were attacking in the Roosters quarter when a short kick for the line bounced up for winger Jack Margetts. He broke free of a tackle and pass to Jones who showed plenty of pace on a 70m dash to the tryline. The conversion was unsuccessful leaving the scoreline at 20-6.

With 10 minutes remaining in the half, the Roosters were in again, this time attacking down the right side of the feld. Melrose turned up in the

the way for today’s Matildas, who now regularly play to packed stadiums.

Jo and her former Matildas teammates were formally presented with their caps and recognized for their contributions to women’s football in front of a full house at ACCOR Stadium. We had the opportunity to speak with Jo, who shared some of her

outside centre position and passed to substitute Toby Batten.

Confronted by a wall of defenders he fung a long ball infeld, which Margetts held onto and raced over to score under the posts. The conversion was successful putting the Roosters ahead 26-6.

The Ghosts showed what they could do from the restart when the Roosters knocked the ball dead in goal from the kick off.

They tried a short restart, but the Ghosts regathered and on the next play attacked on the right side of the feld.

Woods showed great sleight of hand to deceive the Roosters defence with a short ball to Jake Martin, who raced over to score near the posts.

Woods’ conversion made it 26-12.

The Ghosts looked attack in the fnal minutes of the half and with two minute left after a wild scuffe on at the sidelines, RobertsDavis was sent to the sin bin.

But it was the Roosters who had the fnal say

football experiences that began and concluded on the North Coast.

“I started my playing days with South Services Gunners Soccer Club from under-6s. At 17, I played for Tucabia to join my brother. I then started a women’s team with the South Services Devils after leaving school. In 1996, I began commuting to Newcastle to play for NNSWITC,” Jo

in the half when centre Rhys Hambly was penalised for a high shot on Jones as the halftime hooter sounded. Batten knocked over the penalty from close range to make the score 28-12.

The Ghosts came out for the second half a player up with Roberts-Davis in the bin for the opening minutes.

But it made little difference to the play.

The Roosters scored again from depth when Sines made a break on half way, found hooker Jacob Welsh backing up, who fought through a tackle and pass infeld to Margetts.

The winger dummied, straightened and forced his way across the line just to the left of the posts.

The winger scored his third try fve minutes later, again backing up a Welsh break down the right, which gave him a clear run to the line. Roberts-Davis returned from the bin, happy to have seen his side score twice during his absence. The game became

recounted.

To avoid the long and costly drives from Grafton to Newcastle, Jo relocated to Newcastle in 1997. “I got my frst call-up to the Matildas in ‘96 but didn’t receive my offcial cap until ‘99. I retired from representative football in 2000 and returned to Grafton, where I played for the Gunners with my brother.”

After suffering an ACL

Rugged prop Oliver Percy was out as was hard tackling second rower Cameron Winters. It forced captain coach Dylan Collett to move from the centres to second row, where he tackled himself to a standstill.

Yet such was the ad-lib style of the Nambucca team that the Ghosts defence up the middle was relatively sound.

Of the 11 tries they conceded three were length of the feld breaks, several more were scored from 50 to 60m out and all were scored by the backs.

a procession for the Roosters in the second half with the Roosters scoring almost every time they entered the Ghosts quarter.

Jones evaded three defenders to score in the corner to make it 44-12.

The Roosters reached 50 with another try to Jones backing up a Margetts break down the right wing.

Roberts-Davis next score showed the Roosters at their attacking best.

Running out of their half Sines placed a delightful short kick into space, which Roberts sprinting through, caught on the full.

He threw a dummy to wrong foot the cover and then sprinted 50m to score under the posts.

Sines fnished the scoring with another sweeping move into the right corner. Roberts-Davis converted from the sideline to fnish the scoring with a couple of minutes left.

The Ghosts were short handed for this crucial game against the competition favourites.

injury and recovering, Jo joined Corindi Red Rock Breakers FC. “I played at Corindi for a few years and then returned to the women’s services team for a couple of seasons, as there were no other women’s teams in Grafton.”

During this period, Jo immersed herself in community football.

“I started coaching my nephew’s team

The Roosters made a mockery of the conventional wisdom of rucking the ball out of defence. Many times they swung the ball wide early in the tackle count and deep in their half.

On attack they moved the ball from one side of the feld to the other, searching for gaps.

The South Grafton Rebels continue to struggle going down 30-26 to Sawtell. Both sides scored fve tries, but the goal kicking of Sawtell’s Dean Wearing, who kicked fve from fve, was the difference in the scores.

On Sunday the Ghosts will host Macksville, looking to avenge their bitter 34-22 round fve defeat.

It’s a vital game for the ffth-placed Ghosts who trail Macksville by just one point.

The Rebels are on the road to Nambucca and face a mighty task to topple the front runners on their home turf after losing out to the 46-12 at home on May 19.

at Westlawn Tigers Football Club, guiding them from U6s to U16s. When we established a women’s team at Westlawn, I transitioned to coaching and playing with the girls and their moms, many of whom I had coached in my nephew’s team.”

Congratulations to Jo Powell, a true pioneer of women’s football in Australia.

File photo of the Ghosts and Nambucca in action at the Ghosts home ground, Frank McGuren Field, in 2023.

By Tim Howard

Legendary South Grafton rugby league player Kevin “Stumpy” Stevens could be the face of his old club, the Sydney Roosters, for its Indigenous jersey in 2025.

The Roosters, or Eastern Suburbs as they were know when Stumpy and his brother Terry ventured to Sydney in 1973, have put up a poll on the club website, asking fans to vote for the player they would like to see adorning the club’s indigenous jumper next season.

The ‘YOUi Scrum’ presented by YOUi and run by the National Rugby League is a community enrichment campaign targeted at regions that have been affected by hardships. The campaign aims to provide residents with the opportunity to educate on mental health, resilience and support, utilising rugby league and the NRL to enhance messaging.

Chosen community: Mullumbimby/ Murwillumbah & surrounds – due to recent foods

Talent / Deliverers: Clinton Toopi: 292 NRL/ Super League matches (NZ Warriors, Gold Coast Titans, Leeds Rhinos) &

Ballina Mahjong 7TH June 2024

Pam Farrell 1,Shirley Atkinson 2, Lorna Simpson 3, Jeanette Henwood 4, Ramsay

Roper, Susan Allan 5, Val Heinritz 7, Vanessa Reynolds 8, Carol Meter 9, Valda McLerie 10, Lesley Richie 11, Kath Hubbard 12, Lynda Lovett 13, Cindy Smith 14, Shirley Col;eman 15, Wendy Thornton 16, Pauline Bolte 17, Jan Small 18 , Gladys D’Anna 19, Ronda Taylor 20, Yvonne Weddup 21, Janene Jarvis 22, Jane Fenech 23, Gail McDonagh 24,

The Roosters have given fans the names of fve indigenous players to choose from: Shannon Hegarty, Craig Salvatori, Matt Sing, Andrew Walker and Stevens.

So far Stumpy heads to the poll with 40% of the votes cast, ahead of Walker on 37%.

The brothers came to Eastern Suburbs as a package deal after helping the Rebels to a premiership in 1972 and quickly attracted plenty of attention.

Unfortunately injury cut short Terry’s rise through the ranks, but by 1975 master coach

22 Tests for New Zealand Zeb Taia: 315 NRL/ Super League matches (Parramatta Eels, Gold Coast Titans, Newcastle Knights, St Helens, Catalans Dragons. 1 Test for New Zealand Bodene Thompson: 320 NRL/Super League matches (Gold Coast Titans, Wests Tigers, NZ Warriors)

Programs: League Stars Inspire: The NRL INSPIRE – respect, health & wellbeing and inclusion/diversity program aims to provide interactive learning experiences that inspire our young people State Of Mind Workshop: The workshop is designed specifcally for young people to help

Jack Gibson made

Stumpy a key part of his triumphant side.

He was a vital part of the grand fnal winning team that thrashed St George 38-0.

The club had an outstanding lock forward in Ron Coote and Barry Reilly was no slouch at the back of the scrum either.

But Gibson moved both those champions into the second row to accommodate Stevens.

He featured prominently in the club’s biggest moments in the 1970s, playing lock in the 1975 and 1978 Amco Mid-Season Cup

YOUi Scrum

reduce the stigma around mental health, increase understanding and stimulate help-seeking behaviours through the game we all know and love.

Schedule:

Day 1: League Stars INSPIRE sessions with students at Condong PS, Mullumbimby PS, Main

Diana Auret 25, Linda Lloyd 26, Coral Lavelle 27, Jan Henley 28, Barbara Ellan 29. Friday at 12:30pm at the Ballina Bridge Club North Creek Road.

Enquiries for new players phone Shirley on 0423384647.

Casino RSM Women’s Bowls

On Wednesday 5/6 there was another game played for the club selected pairs & the result was:

Denise Grice & Denise Skinner def Chris Haynes & Julie Creighton

There were 2 rinks

of social bowls & the winners of the day were:

Raelene Skirrey, Annette

James & Jan Dwyer def Raelene Skirrey, Carmel Doyle & Nancy Moran

On the other rink Mary Mead & Judy Carthew def Helen Lavelle & Jan Cooke

Come along & join us, it’s an enjoyable hobby. If you’ve never bowled before coaching is available.

Casino Social Golf

Results 09-06-2024

No competition was possible last Sunday due to the lack of players so next Sunday’s event sponsored by DIY

fnal winning teams, fve-eighth in the 1974 Wills Pre-Season Cup fnal victory, at lock in the 1975 grand fnal, and at halfback in the World Club Challenge one year later, scoring a try.

Injuries slowed down Stumpy’s career later in the 70s, but in 1981 Gibson, now coaching at Parramatta, stunned the league world by luring Stevens out west, where he played in the second row and was a key player in the Eels breakthrough grand fnal win that year.

The Stumpy Stevens names lives on at the Rebels with Kevin’s son

Grant leading the Rebels this season.

In the 2022 grand fnal win Grant was named player of the match and he continues to play a leading role for the Rebels with his crunching defence and strong ball carrying. Go to the Roosters website and have your say on who should be the face on the clubs 2025 indigenous jumper. https://www. roosters.com.au/ news/2024/05/24/ celebrating-indigenouschampions-have-yoursay-on-the-2025indigenous-jersey/

Arm Upper PS (approx. 250 students in total) State of Mind workshop at the Courthouse Hotel with the Mullumbimby Giants JRL club (30 attendees). YOUi Club Equipment pack donated to the Giants Day 2: Schoolgirls Gala day with St

Johns Woodlawn, St Joseph’s Banora Point, Murwillumbah Learning Community, Alstonville High School, Mullumbimby High School (150 Students) State of Mind workshop at Mullumbimby High School (50 students). YOUi School Equipment pack donated to Mullumbimby HS Quotes from Clinton Toopi:

“being able to provide these experiences and workshops to our youth and community in regional parts of the country is extremely valuable and rewarding.

YOUi investing funds into making this possible, truly demonstrates their passion for supporting

Home Timber And Hardware, Casino will be a single stroke on the top 11 holes and visitors are welcome to play with hit off from 6-30am till 7-30am.

CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB

SPORTS RESULTS ASSOCIATION

CROQUET:

S.Hume D.Scott 14 d

P.Hume G.Porter 12 Division 3 Singles Club

Championships : P.Waters 15 d G.Drew 6 RICOCHET CROQUET:

C.Edlund 8 d B.Bill 6

D.Scott 11 d P.Waters 10 P.Scott 19 d P.Bolte

B.Waters 11

N.Poynting J.Hannigan 11 d R.Poynting

B.Wellings 7 Division 3 Singles Club

Championships : A.Mangan 15 d D.Jones 8 Croquet for Kids Tuesdays 3.30pm. All welcome.

CORAKI VETERANS

GOLF RESULTS

THURSDAY 6/6/24

Well some fne weather saw a much larger feld contest the Monthly medal winner J Weaver vets winner R Mackay, 2nd B Micheal, 3rd J Braby, free game B

communities in need”

“this region was affected by some pretty serious fooding and the spirit we witness during out stay was extremely motivating for me. I am lucky to lead the delivery of the NRL’s INSPIRE and State of Mind programs all across the country – and the impact we managed to have during these two days was quite evident to see”

“It is sometimes hard to put a tangible value on what we are able to leave behind with our messaging, but the NRL and YOUi are proud to be able to have some impact in communities where our visits can provide some form of enrichment”

McDonald, chicken/ ball winners R Thorne, D Knox, A Parr, W Henwood, P Muldoon, D Vagne, S McDonough, T Beemster M Bruggy, T Woods, J Lassig. Nearest pins 3rd/12th G Binks, 6th/15th S Toms Putting comp I Welch J Braby. This Thursay 13/6 will be an 18hole single stableford commencing with a shot gun start at 8.30am.

AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING Max

Kevin “Stumpy” Stevens pictured during his playing days with Eastern Suburbs in the 1970s.

Toopi, Taia, Thompson

ROOSTERS PUT GHOSTS DOWN PECKING ORDER