The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 207

SHIRLEY GETS HER WAY

By Tim Howard

A jarring anomaly that has irked Clarence Valley residents from the moment it was frst unveiled is about to be rectifed.

Next month the name of the road that crosses the Balun Bindarray Bridge in Grafton will be changed from Shirley Way to Shirley Adams Way, fnally giving correct recognition of

the frst female mayor of Grafton and a community champion.

Since November 2022 the section or road has been signposted as Shirley Way, setting off protests from every level of the community.

It has taken concerted efforts from Mrs Adam’s husband John, daughter Virginia, Clarence MP Richie Williamson and the Clarence Valley Council to get

naming authority the Geographical Names Board to accept the community’s wishes.

The Adams family requested the approaches be renamed “Shirley Adams Way” to properly recognise Shirley Adams and ensure her memory lives on.

But the board refused the original request to use Mrs Adams full name because it had only recently introduced a ruling

Another Yamba foodplain DA under scrutiny

By Tim Howard

Yamba residents are hoping regulators will rule out another development on the food plain when a Land and Environment Court conciliation conference comes to the region next week.

The court has called a conciliation conference for July 2 between Clifton Yamba Lifestyle Pty Ltd and Clarence Valley Council after legal action was taken over a “deemed refusal” of a 216-dwelling estate development, DA 2023/0241 at 110-120

Carrs Dr.

The conference gives the opportunity for residents opposed to the development to present evidence to the LEC commissioner, who will oversee the conference.

The conference was to have included a site visit, but this has been dropped and resident speakers

will give evidence on a Teams link or over the phone.

A court offcer said a publicly accessible Teams link would be made available for this part of the conciliation process.

After the residents’ evidence, the conciliation will move into confdential session, likely using a separate link, with the parties and senior commissioner taking part.

The development has been in the sights of infuential community group the Yamba Community Action Network.

The group made several submissions to the Northern Regional Planning Panel which refused a development application earlier this month for a 284-lot sub-division not far from this development.

At the same time the group was invited to

Parliament House in Sydney to give evidence to a Parliamentary Committee looking into planning and environmental issues.

Yamba CAN secretary Lynne Cairns said her members were concerned the developer had made changes to its proposal since legal action commenced earlier this year.

She said council’s solicitor has told her that if there were changes they would be “without prejudice”, so could not reveal what they might be.

The court has confrmed it would not release any communications it had with the parties, a policy which Ms Cairns described as garbage.

“We need to know if there have been changes to what was originally proposed in order to make comment on it,” she said.

“If we’re going to provide evidence on something, we have to know what’s different.”

She also said, “she thought it was paramount the commissioner of the court needed to undertake a site visit to fully understand the area and cumulative impacts.”

Ms Cairns said there were similar concerns to the Miles St development the NRPP refused earlier this month.

“We’re particularly concerned about the evacuation procedures during a food,” she said.

“And most of our concerns are virtually the same as the Kahuna DA.

“In fact, the documentation for both evacuation plans looks remarkably similar.”

Problems with the evacuation plan was one of the four reasons the NRPP decided to refuse the DA.

The LEC website said: “Conciliation is

a process in which the parties to a dispute, with the assistance of an impartial conciliator, identify the issues in dispute, develop options, consider alternatives and endeavour to reach agreement.

“The conciliator may have an advisory role on the content of the dispute or the outcome of its resolution but not a determinative role.

“The conciliator may advise on or determine the process of conciliation whereby resolution is attempted, and may make suggestions for terms of settlement, give expert advice on likely terms, and may actively encourage the parties to reach agreement.”

After the conciliation conference the LEC has scheduled a directions hearing in Sydney for July 11.

NAIDOC Week Celebrations in Ballina Shire

Dates: 6 – 12 July 2024

NAIDOC Week is a signifcant time to honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture, and achievements, providing an opportunity to recognize the vital contributions Indigenous Australians make to our nation and society. This year’s theme, “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud,” celebrates the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture. Fire symbolizes a connection to Country, to one another, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that defne Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This theme invites all Australians to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful

dialogue, fostering a society where the wisdom and contributions of Indigenous peoples are fully valued and respected. Through collective efforts, we can forge a future where the stories, traditions, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are cherished and celebrated, enriching the fabric of the nation with the oldest living culture in the world.

Activities Planned for Ballina Shire: Annual Celebration

Walk

Date: Monday, 8 July

Time: Meeting from 10:00

AM

Details: The whole community is invited

to join the annual Celebration Walk starting from the Ballina RSL Club, proceeding along River Street and Cherry Street to the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) for the offcial fag-raising ceremony. Refreshments, BBQ, displays, and games will be held at the BISC and in the closed-off area of the car park, with morning tea provided for community Elders.

Bunjum Sports & Stalls Day

Date: Tuesday, 9 July

Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00

PM

Location: Saunders Oval Ballina (BISC as the wet weather option)

Details: Jarjums sports and stalls day featuring

skills and drills, a touch football round for 4 to 18-year-olds. There will be food, activities, sports, and performances.

Bullinah Basketball 3 x 3

Date: Wednesday, 10 July

Time: From 12:15 PM

Location: Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC)

Details: 3 x 3 basketball competition, skills and drills followed by an All-Stars basketball game.

Bundjalung Goori

Cultural Celebration

Date: Thursday, 11 July

Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00

PM

Location: Missingham Park Amphitheatre

Details: Cultural activities including weaving, dancing, jewellery making, cultural art, cultural tours, didgeridoo

playing, bush tucker tastings, and live music. Art Exhibition

Date: Thursday, 11 July

Time: From 5:00 PM

Location: Richmond Room

Details: Goori celebration of the Arts exhibition.

Bunjum Elders Lunch

Date: Friday, 12 July

Time: 11:30 AM - 2:00

PM

Location: Cherry Street

Sports Club

Details: Lunch for the Elders with entertainment and games.

For more information on these and other activities planned for NAIDOC Week in Ballina Shire, visit the Council’s website at ballina.nsw.gov.au or discoverballina.com.au.

An aerial photo taken during the February/March 2022 food showing some of the issues confronting the developers of the site.

At last. Shirley Adams gets her Way

By Tim Howard

A jarring anomaly that has irked Clarence Valley residents from the moment it was frst unveiled is about to be rectifed.

Next month the name of the road that crosses the Balun Bindarray Bridge in Grafton will be changed from Shirley Way to Shirley Adams Way, fnally giving correct recognition of the frst female mayor of Grafton and a community champion.

Since November 2022 the section or road has been signposted as Shirley Way, setting off protests from every level of the community.

It has taken concerted efforts from Mrs Adam’s husband John, daughter Virginia, Clarence MP Richie Williamson and the Clarence Valley Council to get naming authority the Geographical Names Board to accept the community’s wishes.

The Adams family requested the approaches

be renamed “Shirley Adams Way” to properly recognise Shirley Adams and ensure her memory lives on.

But the board refused the original request to use Mrs Adams full name because it had only recently introduced a ruling banning two word names because of the risk of confusion when directing emergency services units to specifc addresses.

Since coming to offce in March 2023, the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison kickstarted a special process to allow for Shirley Way to be renamed Shirley Adams Way, in line with the family’s request.

After a public consultation took place earlier this year, Minister Aitchison last week approved the change in name and Shirley Adams Way will be the new name of the road from late July.

The minister said Ms Adams was the frst

female mayor of the then Grafton City Council, a former Jacaranda Queen, Jacaranda Festival President in 1976 and 1977, a Jacaranda Festival life member and was deeply involved in NSW Girl Guides, the United Hospital Auxiliary, Meals on Wheels, Clarence River Historical Society, Country Women’s Association, and many other organisations. She was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in 1989.

“Last week I was pleased to approve the renaming of Shirley Way in Grafton to Shirley Adams Way,” Minister Aitchison said.

“This is a ftting tribute to Shirley Adams OAM who served as Grafton’s frst female mayor and was also the frst woman to lead the Country Mayor’s Association of NSW.

medal in the Order of Australia (OAM).”

The Minister said renaming the road was something she had supported since it frst came to her attention.

“To honour Shirley’s legacy, it’s only right we rename this road, she said. “It’s come after years of campaigning and advocacy and is a great win for Shirley’s family and the broader Clarence Valley community.

“Everyone has always wanted the road to be renamed Shirley Adams Way and I am pleased that the NSW Labor Government has been able to make this happen.”

Ms Aitchison said the number of submissions calling for the change had been “overwhelming”.

said.

“I am in awe of Shirley’s service to the Grafton and Clarence Valley communities.

“In coming weeks Transport for NSW will install new signage to mark the changing of the road name and the team will work with relevant organisations to notify them of the change.”

The minister has also reached out to the Adams family to notify them of the impending changes.

“I’ve spoken to Shirley’s daughter Virginia and she is just thrilled, she said.

“I’m looking forward to visiting Grafton to meet with Shirley’s family and friends to celebrate the renaming of the road when the new signs go up.

“In recognition of her services to local government and the Girl Guide Movement, Ms Adams also received a

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“Given this and the special place Shirley Adams holds in the hearts of Clarence Valley community, I felt renaming the road to Shirley Adams Way was a simple, common sense way to honour the memory and legacy of a trailblazing woman,” she

There has been bipartisan support for the change, with the Minister acknowledging the work of Mr Williamson.

“I want to thank Richie Williamson MP and the Clarence Valley Council for their ongoing advocacy,” she said.

Mr Williamson said the change “just makes sense”.

“The name Shirley Adams is synonymous not only in Grafton but across the Clarence Valley and it is a ftting tribute to a remarkable lady and a dear friend who was a staunch advocate not only for her local community, but in encouraging women’s participation in public life and decision making,” he said.

“Shirley had a burning desire to make Grafton a better place and had a genuine love for the people of the city.”

Mr Williamson said the family would be relieved that the right decision had fnally been made.

“I know her husband John Adams OAM and family are incredibly proud as is the community of Shirley’s legacy,” he said.

“The renaming of the road is a ftting tribute in honour and recognition of her service to local government, the girl guide movement and the wider community, and I look forward to the road offcially being renamed with her family in the very near future.”

One of the signs soon to be erected on the approaches to the Balun Bindarray Bridge in honour of former Mayor of Grafton Shirley Adams.

Former Grafton Mayor Shirley Adams, who died in June 2020, with her husband John Adams. Mr Adams has lobbied the government tirelessly for the name change on the bridge approaches.

By Tim Howard

Plan to turn ferry loss into $8.9mil windfall

A plan has been hatched to turn the Clarence Valley’s loss of the Ulmarra service earlier this month into an $8.9 million windfall.

A report from the Clarence Valley Council general manager Laura Black to the June council meeting on Tuesday said the loss of the ferry was a chance for the council to “advocate for compensatory funds” to fund infrastructure in the region.

Ms Black’s report noted the Transport for NSW advised the cost of replacing the ferry would have been $4million with annual running costs of more than $800,000 annually.

“Total funds sought are $8,883,950, to be allocated to Clarence Valley Council,” the report read.

The recommendation to the council was

That Council:

1. writes to Local State Member Richie Williamson seeking his support in advocating for an allocation of funds to the Clarence Valley in lieu of continuation of the Ulmarra to Southgate Ferry service by Transport NSW.

2. writes to the Minister for Regional Transport, the Hon. Jenny Aitchison requesting:

a. funding totalling $8,883,950 to enable the upgrade of 5kms of Lawrence Road from Great Marlow to Grafton

and, completion of the Ulmarra Riverside Precinct Bailey Park connectivity and Small Park upgrade

and, completion of the Grafton Waterfront Precinct from Clarence Street to the Grafton Bridge.

b. Transport NSW prioritises its commitment to design and deliver pedestrian access across Big River Way in the town of Ulmarra to facilitate connectivity in the town.

c. Funds be made available to Transport NSW to prioritise the upgrade of the Pound and Villiers Street intersection to a signalised intersection as this is both a residual matter relating to the Grafton Bridge duplication and an intersection that will experience increased vehicular movements as a result of cessation of the Ulmarra to Southgate Ferry.

The report said a number of key projects

in receipt of government funding had been underfunded.

For example the 5km Lawrence Rd - Great Marlow Rd to Grafton project had received $2.212 million, but the construction estimate was $7,341 mil, more than $5 million short of the mark.

Two projects in Ulmarra, the refurbishment of the riverside precinct of Bailey Park and the showground, Small Park were also in need of extra funding.

A full report on the council decision will appear in a future edition of The Northern Rivers Times.

Love of nature inspired Murwillumbah artist Elodie Cazes

Murwillumbah artist

Elodie Cazes draws inspiration from her deep love of nature. Despite the challenges she faces, Elodie paints by holding the brush in her mouth. Her artwork “Weeli Wolli Creek” will soon be featured on a greeting card, part of the collection sold across Australia by the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA), an international organization with 850 members in 84 countries.

“I’m thrilled to have one of my paintings reproduced as a card.

This particular piece was inspired by a photograph of Weeli Wolli Creek in Western Australia,” Elodie shared.

Elodie fnds immense joy in painting nature, especially the stunning

Australian landscapes. Her travels around the world have provided her with a wealth of photographic material to draw from. Flowers and birds also frequently

Australian artist whose work is included.

Originally from France, Elodie spent 15 years in New Zealand with her family. At age 12, she suffered a spinal

inspire her work.

The mid-year product selection for MFPA is highly competitive, with a panel of European experts choosing the featured artworks. This year, Elodie is the only

injury after diving into a shallow pond, resulting in paralysed limbs.

During her hospital stay, she began painting with a brush held in her mouth as part of a therapeutic program.

As a child, Elodie always loved drawing, making painting a perfect therapeutic outlet. She was encouraged by several New Zealand members of MFPA,

artist’s paradise, with its beautiful nature and peaceful locations. It’s also conveniently close to healthcare facilities,” Elodie added.

The MFPA supports

including Kevin Griffths and Irene Bernie.

After returning to France, Elodie and her family eventually moved to Australia, settling in Murwillumbah.

“Northern NSW is an

artists like Elodie by selling products featuring their artwork. Initially focusing on Christmas cards, their offerings now include a wide range of items such as special occasion cards, jigsaws,

tea sets, address books, calendars, Christmas serviettes, placemats, gift tags, and wrapping paper.

Founded in 1956 by a group of European artists, the MFPA is a self-help organization that empowers artists with disabilities to achieve their creative ambitions while maintaining fnancial independence. The Australian branch was established in 1971.

To become a student member, an artist must qualify by painting with a brush held in either their mouth or foot due to the loss of hand function from illness or accident.

Student members receive scholarships for art supplies and tuition.

MFPA artist Elodie Cazes

Weeli Wolli Creek by Elodie Cazes

By Samantha Elley

Dan and Emily Clark had their eye on the pie prize when Dan few down to Melbourne recently to enter some of their pies in the Baking Association of Australia’s Best Pie competition.

“They have a trade show that ties in with (the pie competition),” said Emily.

“We decided we would enter a couple of our pies in it.

“So Dan few them down as special cargo down to Melbourne.”

To their surprise and delight they walked away with a gold, a silver and two bronze medals for their efforts.

“We entered our plain pie, our Mexican pie, satay chicken and our Lamb, Rosemary and Mash,” said Emily.

“We enter the pies not to win, just to gauge

Local slow cooked pies are gold standard

where we sit with other bakers, to make sure we are doing the right thing and heading in the right direction.

“We were really, really stoked.”

They won gold for the

lamb pie, silver for the satay and bronze for both the plain and Mexican pies.

“We only came up with the lamb, rosemary and mash 2-3 weeks before the pie comp was on,”

said Dan.

“It was a brand new one that we’d never tried before.”

The business opened in February 2023 and has been serving up a wide range of baked goods, all

made from scratch, to the Casino public ever since.

“Dan was working in a bakery in Lismore,” said Emily

“He is a qualifed baker and he had always had this idea in his head that

one day he would like to get here.”

The couple had started a grazing box business which outgrew their home and knew they had to either fnish up or continue expanding what they had started.

From there, Wild Soul Bakehouse was born.

They often rotate new favours of pies every two weeks to provide variety, but after their success in competition,

Dan and Emily are keen to keep the lamb pie on as a regular.

And their secret?

“We do all our pies from scratch, pastries from scratch, we don’t buy in anything,” said Dan.

“With our lamb, we slow cook the meat, so we take our time and let the favours develop.”

You can sample the award winning pies at Wild Soul Bakehouse, 70 Centre Street, Casino.

Emily, Blair (3), Dan and Addison (4) Clark at Wild Soul Bakehouse

Richmond Hill Rd upgrade refects commitment to safety

By Rob Heyward

Lismore City Council’s road crews are currently engaged in the reconstruction of a 560-metre segment of road between Roy Place and Laihaina Crescent. This project is part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the safety and quality of Lismore’s local road network.

The Richmond Hill Road upgrade, which began in September 2023, has already seen the successful reconstruction of a 1.8km section, signifcantly improving both safety and the longevity of the roadway.

Mayor Steve Krieg announced that the fnal phase of the Richmond Hill Road reconstruction will extend from the current endpoint to approximately 300 metres beyond the Laihaina Crescent intersection.

“This phase is in its fnal planning stages and is expected to employ the

same methodologies and treatments as previous stages. Upon completion, the total length of reconstructed road will reach 2.7km,” Mayor Krieg stated.

In early June, work commenced on removing the old road surface over the 560-metre stretch. This was followed by in-situ stabilisation of the lower sub-base pavement layer, which involves incorporating a binder to enhance the performance characteristics of the sub-base, allowing for the reuse of existing materials in the new pavement design.

The stabilisation process uses a large reclaimer machine to mix

the existing pavement material with the binder to the required depth. This mixture is then compacted and shaped to achieve the necessary geometry. A new base layer is subsequently laid and compacted to the fnished surface height.

Additionally, the project includes adjustments to adjoining driveways, which may involve replacing pipe crossings and installing grates or concrete dish drains for improved stormwater management.

Mayor Krieg emphasized that the Richmond Hill Road reconstruction aims to enhance the road’s structural integrity,

geometry, stormwater infrastructure, and overall ride quality.

He acknowledged the challenges faced by regional councils in maintaining local road networks.

“Lismore City Council is responsible for 1215km of sealed and unsealed roads within our LGA. The extensive investment needed for such reconstructions and repairs would be unattainable without the continued funding support from our State and Federal partners,” he said.

The Richmond Hill Road project is jointly funded by the State Government’s Regional and Local Roads Repair Program and Fixing Local Roads Program, along with Lismore City Council.

For updates on the Richmond Hill Road upgrade, visit Council’s Your Say page at Lismore Your Say https://yoursay.lismore. nsw.gov.au/

Diary of a Flood Survivor

With the opening of the new petrol station in Woodburn, I feel like our little village has had a win, after all we have been through.

A recent post on a local community Facebook page showed the price of fuel as one of the lowest in the area.

This was confrmed when contributors to the post shared the prices from around the region.

At the time of the photo unleaded was 176.9 and diesel at 179.9.

Someone posted that unleaded in Yamba was at 198.0 and another 193.9 in Grafton.

Clunes was reported as selling for 210.0, Mullum at 229.0 and Ballina at 185.5.

Casino came in close with 179.0.

There was praise for the staff at Woodburn and just to be able to have the convenience of petrol nearby again, will not be taken for granted any time soon, I think.

On the rebuilding-thehouse front we have had a setback, as our builder is no longer able to help us fnish the downstairs area.

We had held off for

a while to ‘restock the coffers’ and take a break from the stress of renovating, but now, especially as our empty nester status has temporarily changed, due to both boys coming home for a while, it is necessary for us to move forward with the extra living space.

Not only that, I am pretty tired of dragging a sheet of gyprock across the door to the garage so the dog doesn’t get out every time we drive off somewhere.

I would also like a stylish front door again, not just a plywood one that was practical at the time to ensure the house was locked up. Little steps.

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Photo Jim Lagerstedt on Facebook

RENAMING OF NEW GRAFTON BRIDGE APPROACHES TO SHIRLEY ADAMS WAY A COMMONSENSE DECISION

A decision to rename the northern and southern approaches and two lanes across the new Grafton Bridge, the Balun Bindarray Bridge, from Shirley Way to Shirley Adams Way is a commonsense decision in recognition of the frst and only female Mayor of Grafton City Council and local community trailblazer, the late Shirley Adams OAM.

Clarence Nationals

MP Richie Williamson (pictured) said he strongly supported and advocated alongside Clarence Valley Council for the renaming after

the Geographical Names Board of NSW only accepted naming the approaches Shirley Way.

“It just makes sense.

The name Shirley Adams is synonymous not only in Grafton but across the Clarence Valley and it is a ftting tribute to a remarkable lady and a dear friend who was a staunch advocate not only for her local community, but in encouraging women’s participation in public life and decision making.

“Shirley had a burning desire to make Grafton a better place and had a genuine love for the

people of the city,” Mr Williamson said.

“I thank the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison for supporting

Council’s request in properly recognising the enormous contribution Shirley Adams made to her local community.

“I know her husband John Adams OAM and family are incredibly proud as is the community of Shirley’s legacy.

“The renaming of the road is a ftting tribute in honour and recognition of her service to local government, the girl guide movement and the wider community, and I look forward to the road offcially being renamed with her family in the very near future.”

NSW Ambulance Staff Recognised for Service and Bravery

NSW Ambulance staff from the North Coast and Hunter New England were honoured today for their exemplary service, bravery, and dedication at a special awards ceremony held in Port Macquarie. Commendations and Recognitions

More than 300 paramedics, control centre staff, and volunteer community frst responders, spanning areas from Tweed Heads to Tuncurry, Wee Waa to Hamilton, and the Northern Control Centre in Charlestown, were commended for their contributions to the state.

Notable Recognitions:

• Greta Bus Crash Response: Paramedics and control centre staff who responded to the tragic bus crash in June last year.

• 2022 North Coast Floods: Teams who worked tirelessly to ensure community safety during the devastating foods.

In addition to these specifc incidents, numerous NSW Ambulance staff received long service medals for their decades of commitment. Many were also recognized for achieving or enhancing their qualifcations this year, including intensive care paramedics,

special operations rescue paramedics, and extended care paramedics. Ceremony Highlights The Port Macquarie Awards and Recognition Ceremony is the frst of three events planned for 2024 to honour NSW Ambulance staff and volunteers statewide.

Minister for Health Ryan Park: “This ceremony is about acknowledging and awarding our hardworking paramedics and control centre staff who go to work every day to serve their community. It’s also about highlighting those who have gone above

and beyond in people’s times of need, such as during foods or fres. I sincerely congratulate all the paramedics and control centre staff being recognised today and welcome all the new paramedics and emergency medical call takers.”

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan: “NSW Ambulance staff play a vital role in protecting the community across the state. These staff members don’t just serve the people of NSW for the accolades or awards; they do it because they are

dedicated to providing the very best mobile and emergency health care to their community. As well as awarding the Commissioner’s Unit Citation and Certifcate and Pandemic Service Medal, we are also recognizing our paramedics for their long and diligent service with the National Medal and acknowledging those who served through foods and bushfres with the National Emergency Medal.”

Acknowledgments and Awards

• Commissioner’s Unit Citation and Certifcate

• Pandemic Service

Medal

• National Medal for Long and Diligent Service

• National Emergency Medal for Service during Floods and Bushfres

The ceremony was a heartfelt tribute to the dedication and bravery of NSW Ambulance staff, who continuously strive to provide exceptional emergency healthcare services to the community. The subsequent ceremonies will continue to celebrate the invaluable contributions of ambulance staff and volunteers throughout the year.

Rising Tide Climate Defenders Demand Action at Labor Member’s Offce

Over 40 Rising Tide Climate Defenders swarmed the offce of the Labor Member for Richmond today, demanding an immediate end to new fossil fuel projects. The demonstrators kayaked from John Follent Park in Tweed Heads to Faux Park in South Tweed, then walked nearly 1 kilometre with their kayaks to reach the offce.

Background on Rising Tide’s Actions

In November 2023, Rising Tide organized ‘The People’s Blockade of the World’s Largest Coal Port in Newcastle,’ which saw over 3,000 participants engage in a 32-hour blockade, including 20 individuals from the Northern Rivers. After the protest deadline expired, over 100 people were arrested for continuing the blockade.

Goals of the Current Action

Today’s demonstration is the frst in a national tour by Rising Tide, aimed at building momentum for the upcoming November 2024 People’s Blockade. The climate defenders left a letter under the door of the Labor Member for Richmond’s offce, calling for the

following actions:

1. Immediate cancellation of all new fossil fuel projects

Tide will continue to build a mass movement to take on the fossil fuel industry if our government won’t.”

MJ from Bilambil, Rising Tide Northern Rivers: “Although the Labor Member for Richmond locked the doors on their community again, the Rising Tide climate defenders left a letter under the door calling on the Member to support our demands.”

2. Taxing fossil fuel export profts at 75% to fund community and industrial transition, and to pay for climate loss and damage

3. Ending all coal exports from Newcastle – the world’s largest coal port – by 2030

Statements from Rising Tide Members Monique from Murwillumbah, Rising Tide Northern Rivers: “We are taking action today in Tweed Heads to draw attention to our local member’s inaction on climate change. We call on our Australian government to take action on our demands, and until they do, Rising

Call to Action Rising Tide Northern Rivers is holding ongoing training, education, and workshops and is calling on the Northern Rivers community to join the movement.

For more information on how to get involved, visit Rising Tide’s website or follow their social media channels.

Local Dog Off-Leash Areas Set for Further Upgrades

Ballina Shire Council is set to upgrade two popular local dog off-leash exercise areas, continuing its commitment to providing quality recreational spaces for the community and their pets.

Gap Road, Alstonville

Since its opening earlier this year, the Gap Road dog exercise area has become a favourite spot

for dog owners. This park features a fully fenced area with dog agility equipment, a walking track, improved accessibility, shelters, seating, a dog waste bag dispenser, and landscaping.

To enhance this space further, additional improvements will be made to the access entry and exit points, seating, and the walking track.

The temporary closure for these upgrades will start on Thursday, June 20, 2024, and continue for four weeks. During this period, the existing dog exercise off-leash area north of the site will remain accessible for use.

Compton Drive, East Ballina

In East Ballina, the entrance to the Compton Drive Dog Park will

undergo essential upgrades, including the installation of a new concreted main entrance. To facilitate this work, the main entrance will be closed for a brief period of 3 to 5 days at the end of June. Access to the park will still be available through the gate on the eastern side of the fenced area.

Funding and Community Feedback

These enhancement projects have been made possible through the Local Government Recovery Grants for Highly Impacted Councils. The upgrades align with community feedback on the Companion Animal Management Plan, which can be viewed at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ dog-and-cat-ownership.

The Council

appreciates the community’s patience and understanding as these facilities are improved. For more information about dog off and on-leash areas, visit the Council’s website at ballina.nsw. gov.au/exercising-yourdog.

‘Saving Lives Together’ –Challenge Accepted For Service’s Annual Appeal

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service annual End of Financial Year Appeal is entering its fnal days and despite the challenging economic climate, the generosity of the communities it serves in ‘saving lives together’ continues to come to the fore.

On average the Service’s aircraft and NSW Ambulance and NSW Health critical care medical teams are tasked by NSW Ambulance up to four times a day from any one of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service’s bases in Lismore, Tamworth and Belmont, fying over 1,500 missions a year into communities across Northern NSW.

The face of this year’s appeal has been baby Henry, whose family know just how important the Service is and how community support plays a vital role in helping save local lives.

Henry was born in June 2023 and required 17 minutes of CPR at birth to stabilise his heart rate and breathing. Tests revealed that Henry had a congenital diaphragmatic hernia,

resulting in some of his organs moving upwards into the cavity under his heart. Further tests then revealed that Henry also had a coarctation of the aorta, where part of the aorta was narrower than usual.

Henry’s chances of survival dropped signifcantly and he needed an urgent transfer from John Hunter Hospital to the specialist facilities and staff of Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney.

“We were told Henry wouldn’t make it

to Westmead in an ambulance and to hear he was going to be airlifted brought nothing but tears of hope,” said Henry’s parents Michelle and Nick.

Baby Henry’s transfer had the best medical equipment on board to help get him safely to Westmead Children’s Hospital – with the helicopter’s NSW Ambulance and NSW Health critical care medical team and in Henry’s case, specialist neonatal nursing staff that escorted him in

fight.

Once at Westmead, baby Henry underwent two major operations including an eight-hour open heart surgery and fnally, after three months of specialist care, baby Henry happily went home for the frst time.

“We’re so very grateful and in debt to the amazing services the Westpac Rescue Helicopter has provided for our family and we know they do the same for so many others as well,” Michelle said.

Being able to share

stories like Henry’s and the impact that community support is making on the lives of the patients transported and their families is something that Michelle and Nick are confdent has helped to encourage public donations for this year’s Appeal.

“Sharing Henry’s story as part of this year’s Appeal I feel has bought home to people just how vital this service is and we are so happy that it has encouraged people to donate and together, make a difference to

the lives of people in the community just like Henry,” Michelle concluded.

To make a tax deductible donation before June 30, visit www.rescuehelicopter. com.au/appeal, scan the QR Code below or call 1800 155 155.

Today, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service operates in partnership with NSW Ambulance and NSW Health, to deliver the highest standard of aeromedical and rescue services to those in need across a state-wide network.

A NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic and NSW Health doctor are on board each AW139 aircraft to provide the highest quality critical care where it is needed most.

Baby Henry Carroll and family

I fell in love with being a dairy farmer, and hope one day my children will feel the same

Lizzy Chappell is a down to earth 27-year-old female dairy farmer in Northern NSW working every day alongside her fourth-generation farmer husband, Brian and raising their three children Luke (5), Jacob (3) and Amelia (1).

Lizzy fell in love with farm life 15 years ago joining her then high school sweetheart Brian on his family farm and under the guidance of Brian’s mother discovered her passion for farming.

Brian’s mum shared with her the ins and outs of dairy farming and passed on the knowledge she had learnt throughout the 15 years as a Norco dairy farmer.

“I fell in love with the farm and farm life, as previously I had only been a hobby farmer in my hometown of Clunes

and had no family history in farming,” said Lizzy.

Lizzy and Brian frst entered a partnership with Brian’s mum and stepdad four years ago, however due to unforeseen circumstances with Brian’s mother falling ill – they took over and have been running the farm together ever since, making them one of Norco’s youngest dairy farmers.

“It happened sooner than we expected as we are still quite young, but we felt ready and well prepared,” Lizzy adds.

“Brian’s mum was so knowledgeable, she taught me everything I know including how to bring up the best cows possible and run an effcient farm.” Lizzy adds.

Lizzy and Brian

currently employ fve staff members and manage a herd of 750 cows in total with 400 milking jerseys. As Lizzy

also is raising three children, the farm is family focused not only for Lizzy but all staff members.

When asked what she loves most about being in the dairy industry Lizzy reports bringing the kids up on the farm is an amazing experience and the joy it brings to their whole family is priceless.

“The boys absolutely love it, and they already talk farming. They feed the calves and help us out where it’s safe of course, but I love the farming lifestyle and sharing it with my kids, Lizzy adds.

Being one of Norco’s youngest dairy farmers and a female, Lizzy has found a great support network of fellow female dairy farmers from farms close by and a Women in Dairy Facebook group which serves as a place for sharing tips, advice, and interesting news updates.

When asked what a day on the farm looks like for Lizzy it’s a 3:30am start to milk the cows, before getting Luke and Jacob ready for daycare then it’s back to the farm for chores throughout the day whilst caring for Amelia her youngest.

“I will be honest, I am

not hands on or confdent with the machinery so I leave that to our staff, maybe one day I will learn. But really my passion lies with innovation on the farm, caring for our herd and striving for success.

“The innovation we have implemented on our farm comes from a real love for our cows. We have introduced collars for cow health which will connect to the Autodraft, a chip in their ear with a personalised number. This will tell us if a cow is sick or on heat when it walks past the scanner and we can tend to it immediately, enhancing on farm effciency.

Lizzy and Brian also received a grant to create a big dam on farm for effuent recycling and have plans to upgrade their farm in the future. Lizzy hopes to pass down her knowledge to her kids as they get older, showing them the ropes of dairy farming.

“I love seeing my kids grow up on the farm and I hope that maybe one out of the three will catch on to my enthusiasm for the dairy life and become a ffthgeneration dairy farmer. After all there is nowhere else I would rather be,” Lizzy concludes.

Community information sessions: draft coastal hazard response plans for Woody Head & Sandon River campgrounds

Drop-in to discuss the draft plans with national parks staff anytime from 4:00-8:00pm on:

Wednesday 3 July, Iluka Community Hall, 54 Spenser Street, Iluka Thursday 4 July, Maclean Showground – Jim Thompson Pavilion, 12 Cameron Street, Maclean

The draft plans are on exhibition for public comment from 28 June to 29 July 2024 at environment.nsw.gov.au/ coastal-hazard-response-plans npws.carbonandrestoration@environment.nsw.gov.au

NSW BUDGET: NOTHING FOR RICHMOND AND CLARENCE VALLEYS COST OF LIVING CRISIS, BUT SOME WINS

The NSW Labor Government’s 18 June Budget does nothing to alleviate the growing cost of living problems in the Richmond and Clarence Valleys, although there is some good news for the region, according to Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson.

“Everywhere I go, every local I talk to, they all say the same thing: we’re struggling with rising costs - why isn’t the Government helping?” Mr Williamson said.

Mr Williamson said that he was all for working cooperatively with the Government, but there was mounting evidence Sydney Labor is “out of town, out of touch and the budget is out of control”.

“Calls to reinstate the $250 fuel card for regional seniors, students and apprentices have fallen on deaf ears, but Sydney seniors now enjoy $2-a-day Gold Passes on Sydney’s massive and massively subsidised public transport system as well as toll relief for Sydneysiders,” Mr Williamson said.

“Calls to save the Ulmarra ferry from Labor’s axe met a similar fate, at the same time as Labor is buying a feet of new ferries for Sydney and took over another Sydney ferry service that has lower patronage than Ulmarra to Southgate.”

Mr Williamson did acknowledge the Government’s ongoing funding of the previous

Liberals and Nationals Government’s Grafton Base Hospital rebuild, the allocation of $6.2m in the fght against White Spot disease in local rivers as well as a “welcome” $90m boost for the Resilient Homes Program, following the 2022 foods.

“These are crumbs compared to what Labor is lavishing on its Sydney heartland,” Mr Williamson cautioned.

“The Richmond and Clarence Valleys provide the timber for Sydney homes, the beef for Sydney dinners as well as the sugar and milk for Sydney cappuccinos.

“That needs to be acknowledged and we deserve our fair share,” Mr Williamson concluded.”

Contract Awarded for New Animal Pound and Rehoming Centrea

By Rob Heyward

The Tweed’s new Animal Pound and Rehoming Centre is set to move forward following the Council’s approval of a contract to design and construct the state-ofthe-art facility.

In a unanimous decision at their recent meeting, the Council awarded the design and construction contract to Alder Construction Pty Ltd after a rigorous tender process that saw submissions from six companies. The $6.8 million contract encompasses the design and construction of the main animal rehoming building and car park on Council-owned land at 92 – 102 Lundberg Drive, South Murwillumbah.

Construction will commence once the capping earthworks, currently rehabilitating the former tip site, are completed. The total project is expected to cost $9.1 million, funded by Tweed Shire Council with support from the Australian and NSW governments.

Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry expressed

excitement over the contract award.

“We are thrilled to see progress on this much-anticipated facility for Tweed residents, and pleased to appoint a local builder for the project,” said Cr Cherry.

“The new centre will serve as a comprehensive hub for impounding, sheltering, and rehoming animals, providing veterinary care, impounding vehicles, and housing a new offce for our Rangers and administrative centre for Friends of the Pound, our not-for-proft animal rehoming partners.”

Designed to meet the latest standards in animal care, the facility will offer enhanced services, including an outdoor exercise yard.

Construction is expected to begin by mid-to-late 2024, with completion anticipated by late 2025, weather permitting.

The new centre will replace the former pound at Stotts Creek, which closed in 2019 due to food risks and the need for space in the expansion of the Council’s Resource and Recovery Centre. Currently, impounded

animals are cared for by a private operator, with rehoming services supported by Friends of the Pound.

The new centre will operate seven days a week and accommodate up to 80 companion animals—40 dogs and 40 cats—needing new homes. It also includes a designated area for animal enrichment, an essential aspect of the design.

Funding for Stage 1 of the project includes contributions from:

• Australian Government LRCI Phase 3 - COVID-19 Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program Guidelines – $1,761,562

• Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot’s election commitment - $1 million

• NSW Offce of Local Government - Local Government Grants (Floods) – Highly Impacted CouncilsCompanion Animals Support - $375,000

• Tweed Shire Council - $6 million

For more information on the pound, visit www. tweed.nsw.gov.au/ property-rates/petslivestock/tweed-pound

Richie in Parliament

Council’s Team Leader - Rangers Kristian Pakula (right) and Ranger Alan Swift check concept plans on the site of the new Animal Pound and Rehoming Centre at South Murwillumbah.

Northern Rivers Rural Scholars Represent the Next Generation of Leaders

JACOB BRENTNALL Casino

Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine

University of New South Wales

Jacob is a ffth-year medical student studying at the University of New South Wales Rural Clinical Campus in Port Macquarie. His interests include anaesthetics, pain medicine, and general practice and he recently completed his Honours research project in acute pain management following hip fractures. Originally from the Northern Rivers, Jacob relocated to the Mid North Coast to study medicine with a strong passion for the rural and regional lifestyle and aspires to work in areas facing medical workforce shortages throughout his career.

In a signifcant investment in the future of rural and regional communities, the RAS Foundation has selected a record 91 students for its 2024 Rural Scholarship program, including three scholars from the Northern Rivers region.

About the Scholarship Program

Now in its 14th year, the RAS Foundation Rural Scholarship program provides fnancial support to tertiary education students who are shaping the future of regional NSW by pursuing careers within rural or regional communities. This year, a record $516,000 will be distributed among the scholarship recipients to help ease the fnancial

burdens associated with higher education, such as relocation costs, study expenses, and the inability to work consistently due to study commitments or placements.

Statement from the Foundation Manager Cecilia Logan, Foundation Manager, expressed the Charity’s privilege in supporting the next generation of rural and regional leaders. “This year’s applicants are outstanding ambassadors for their communities and have the potential to create a positive and lasting impact in the regional sector through their chosen career paths,” she said. Logan highlighted the signifcant fnancial

DEAN CHAPMAN Fine Flower

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Flexible First Year)

University of Wollongong

Dean is excited to start his undergraduate Engineering degree at the University of Wollongong in 2024. A degree in engineering appeals to him as it will allow him to work on projects that improve the quality of life for many people. He has grown up on his family beef cattle property located at Fine Flower in the Northern Rivers where his family has been producing Australian beef for over 45 years. He enjoys exercising and keeping ft and his favourite sport is water polo but when on the farm, the best job is mustering cattle on the horses.

burden that pursuing higher education poses, especially for students from regional areas, and emphasized the program’s goal to ensure these students have access to the same opportunities as their metropolitan counterparts.

Scholars from Northern Rivers

• Jacob Brentnall

– Casino: Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine

• Dean Chapman –Fine Flower: Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

• Indigo Kesztler –Lismore: Bachelor of Dental Science

Lismore local Indigo Kesztler, studying dental science, aims to address the large healthcare gap in rural

and remote communities, particularly in oral health. “There is a large healthcare gap in rural and remote communities within Australia, especially when it comes to education, affordability and long waiting lists associated with seeking public dental care. Once completing my studies, I hope to continue my work in rural areas and provide support to Indigenous communities and those who face barriers when it comes to accessing oral health care,” Kesztler said. The scholarship has alleviated the fnancial pressure associated with her degree, allowing her to focus more on her studies.

Financial Support

INDIGO KESZTLER, Lismore

Bachelor of Dental Science

Charles Sturt University

Indigo is currently in her fourth year studying dentistry at Charles Sturt University in Orange. Growing up in a small regional town in the Northern Rivers has highlighted the importance and need for supportive healthcare environments. Indigo recognises that costs often create a huge barrier for individuals in rural areas, leading to avoidance rather than prevention. She aspires to make a positive impact in rural communities through preventative care and the improvement of oral health literacy through education.

The RAS Foundation awards up to $6000 to full-time Rural Scholarship recipients and up to $3000 for part-time students, made possible through the generosity of donors like The Snow Foundation and UNE Foundation. Over its 17-year history, the RAS Foundation has invested over $9 million into rural and regional NSW through education and community grant programs, providing over 900 scholarships to students across Australia, including targeted scholarships for careers in regional journalism and the Australian wine industry.

Future Applications

Applications for the 2025 RASF Rural Scholarship will open on

July 1, 2024, and close on September 22, 2024. The scholarship program is open to students across NSW and the ACT who are currently enrolled or applying for study in an accredited tertiary course at an Australian university, college, or TAFE, with no age or degree type restrictions. For more information, please visit www.rasf. org.au.

The RAS Foundation continues to support rural scholars, ensuring they have the resources needed to pursue their academic and career aspirations, contributing to the strength and vitality of regional communities.

WHERE IS MUM JANE’S HUSBAND?

‘Brrrr, it’s most chilly to-day, even though my winter coat has grown as it does every year at this time, I feel a keen desire to be doing something. Hmm, ponder? (It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ here). Aha, I have a plan, so I’ll put it to ‘Mum Jane’. ‘Mum, can my buddies come to our house ‘cos we want to play ‘20 Questions’ and you can even join in. Crikey, she even looked interested.. whoohoo! ‘How does it work Leems?’ I told her that all our names would go in a hat; one name would be drawn out. e name that is drawn can then be asked questions by the rest of us. Gottit? And Mum, could you get warm blankies & put our RC heating on warm, pleeasie.’ And so, it came to pass. My buddies arrived and snuggled on blankies, & our names were put in a hat. ‘Treasure’ drew a name out and exclaimed ‘Ooh, its Mum Jane’s name.’ As I, Leemo, was in charge I asked for a paw raise from whoever wanted to ask Mum her rst question. My elegant friend ‘Pascale’ raised her paw so I told her she could start. ‘Mum Jane’ how come you don’t have a husband? All of us here have a Mum like you BUT they have husbands we call ‘Dad’, but you don’t. How come? Have you ever had a husband and where’s he gone? We all feel it’s important for ‘Leemo’ to have a father gure in his life.’ Eeek, Mum’s pruney countenance looked horror struck; she actually spluttered. I spoke. ‘Mum, you’ve gotta answer ‘Pascale’s’ Question, it’s the rule,

OK!’ She spoke in a shaky voice. ‘Right you bloody snoopy lot, I would like you to know I have had 2 husbands but neither of them liked cats, so, in essence, they had to leave & go get a wife who didn’t like cats either & live happily ever a er. “I” simply went on to share my life with cats ‘cos I found them much more engaging companions than either of my husbands.’ A quiet murmur & dangerous whisper swept through the group until ‘Milo’ put up his fat paw and spoke. ‘Mum Jane’, quite frankly, as a bloke Cat, I think that’s the biggest piece of mindless crapola I’ve ever heard, so come on, out with the truth about why they went away. As a bloke, I reckon I may know why.’ (Oooh, thank the Lord, an interjection!) ‘Treasure’ put up her paw and spoke loudly. ‘Milo, like lotsa blokes, you are a ‘know-it-all’ about everything but in reality you know aught, so keep your muzzle shut! (Ooooh, Milo shrunk into his blankie! Crikey, our supposedly fun game of 20 Questions is not turning out as I’d hoped.) As M.C., I addressed our gathering sternly. ‘Right, I’ll make Mum a cup of tea, allowing her to re ect a bit; you may all watch 1 episode of ‘Bluey’ and THEN I’ll invite her to speak again?’ Unanimous paw raising! Some 10 mins later Mum signalled she was ready to talk and was most calm. ‘OK, you lot. I have words to say. I am admittedly a contrary persona to live with as ‘Leemo’ (and my family) will attest. I do like my own company, but also much enjoy the company of others at times. Both of my husbands were good persons, as I believe I am. It’s just that, as happens, ‘Never e Twain Shall Meet’ and that’s the simple truth about me and husbands & even other people in my life…some things are just not meant to be.’ Crikey. I love Mum but I think I’ll get her a Bex Powder or a glass of wine. Nitey, Leemo. (I’m gonna check out a dating site for Mum for a Cat loving elderly contrary bloke!)

NSW Government’s Biosecurity Plan Launched After Avian Infuenza Detected

The NSW Government has activated its emergency biosecurity incident plan following the detection of avian infuenza at a poultry egg farm in the Hawkesbury district. The strain identifed has been confrmed as High Pathogenicity

Avian Infuenza (HPAI) H7N8 by the CSIRO national testing labs at the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness.

Key Details:

• Avian Infuenza

Strain: The detected strain, H7N8, is distinct from the current Victorian outbreak and is believed to be a separate spill-over event, potentially from wild birds.

• Immediate Lockdown: Due to the high mortality rate and rapid spread of high pathogenic diseases among poultry, the affected farm has been immediately locked down.

Government Response:

• Emergency Animal Disease Response: The NSW Government has enacted its Emergency Animal Disease response, including an individual biosecurity direction to quarantine the affected farm, preventing the movement of equipment and animals to halt further spread.

• Control Order: A formal control order will be declared this afternoon, extending biosecurity control to a radius of 1-2 kilometres around the farm. This legal instrument will guide urgent actions, including the depopulation of poultry and decontamination of the farm.

Biosecurity Incident Management: The Government’s Biosecurity Incident

Management Team is now operational and coordinating with the Consultative Committee on Emergency Animal Diseases and the National Emergency Animal Disease Management Group to discuss immediate response plans.

Consumer Information:

NSW consumers are assured that eggs and poultry products available in supermarkets are safe to consume, provided they are handled and cooked according to standard food handling practices. This detection does not pose a risk to consumer health.

Industry Collaboration:

The Government will work closely with the industry to mitigate the risk of spread and minimize any impact on the egg supply.

Budget Commitment:

As highlighted in this

week’s Budget, the NSW Government is committed to biosecurity, with an investment of $946 million to protect the state and its primary industries. This incident demonstrates the effectiveness of the biosecurity system in detecting and swiftly responding to incursions. For more information on avian infuenza and updates on this situation, please visit the Department’s website here https:// www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/ animals-and-livestock/ poultry-and-birds/ health-disease/avianinfuenza

The NSW Government remains vigilant in its efforts to contain, manage, eradicate, and decontaminate affected areas, ensuring the continued safety and security of the state’s agricultural sector.

Balloon-Free Byron Shire Initiative

We are committed to making Byron Shire a balloon and single-use decoration-free zone! To protect our environment and marine life, we are banning balloons and other single-use decorations from all Council-owned or managed sites and road reserves.

Our Goals:

• Protect Sea Birds and Marine Life: Preventing balloon debris from harming wildlife.

• Minimise Landfll: Reducing waste that contributes to landfll.

• Reduce Litter: Keeping open spaces and beaches clean.

What Does the Ban Include?

• All Balloons: Including biodegradable, helium, latex, and water balloons.

• Accessories: Plastic disks, ribbons, and strings attached to balloons.

• Decorations: Glitter, confetti, streamers, tinsel, party poppers, and glow sticks.

Why Ban Latex and ‘Biodegradable’ Balloons?

Studies show that latex balloons do not degrade signifcantly even after 16 weeks in various environments. They persist in nature and pose threats to marine life. Where Does the Ban Apply?

The ban covers all Council-owned or managed sites, including:

• Parks and playgrounds

• Community halls

• Sporting facilities like the Cavanbah Centre and swimming pools

• Road reserves (including letter boxes and street poles)

Alternatives to Balloons and Single-Use Decorations: It’s easier than you think to celebrate sustainably. Here are some creative, reusable, and ecofriendly alternatives:

• Bunting: Reusable and can be made from scrap materials or recycled paper.

• Plants and Flowers: Great for table settings

and arches, and can be composted afterward.

• Fairy Lights, Festoons, and Lanterns: Use them year after year.

• Bubbles, Kites, Pinwheels, and Ribbon Wands: Fun and colorful alternatives.

• Chalkboards, Artwork, and Paintings: Make your event visible and artistic.

• Leaf and Flower Confetti: An eco-friendly substitute for plastic or paper confetti.

• Party Kits: Borrow reusable party kits from local libraries or community groups. Learn more about Party Kits

Why Are We Banning Balloons?

Balloons are among the most lethal debris for ocean animals and the biggest killers of Australian sea birds. Turtles often mistake burst balloons for jellyfsh. This issue is prevalent in our community, with local wildlife frequently affected by balloon and plastic debris.

Local governments across Australia are taking the lead by banning balloon releases and the use of balloons on Councilowned sites. Reducing waste is a crucial step in minimizing our environmental footprint and keeping Byron Shire clean and healthy.

This initiative supports our Single-Use Packaging and Materials Policy, emphasizing our commitment to environmental sustainability. For more information about reusable and waste-free alternatives to single-use decorations, Scan the QR Code below.

Let’s work together to make Byron Shire a cleaner, safer, and more beautiful place for all!

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

Saffn’s Commitment to 24/7 Policing in Murwillumbah ‘On Track’

LISMORE MP Janelle Saffn confrms that her key election commitment to ensure 24/7 policing at Murwillumbah Police Station is progressing well and is expected to be achieved within the Minns Labor Government’s frst term.

Progress Update

Ms. Saffn recently met with NSW Minister for Police and Counter Terrorism Yasmin Catley to receive a progress briefng on the staged allocation of 15 additional police positions. This increase aims to extend service delivery from the current 20/7 to a full 24/7 by 2026-27.

“The frst phase of this transition to 24/7 policing began in November 2023, with Murwillumbah Police Station receiving three additional authorized positions: one sergeant and two constables,” Ms. Saffn reported. Recruitment for two of these positions has been completed, while one position remains advertised. The staffng capacity is set to increase gradually over the next three years to reach the full complement of offcers.

Addressing Recruitment Challenges

Ms. Saffn noted that the challenge has been the historically low number of offcers due to inadequate recruitment strategies. However, the Minns Labor Government has introduced several measures to boost police recruitment and address

the critical shortage of offcers, thereby enhancing community safety across the state. Currently, New South Wales faces over 1,500 police offcer vacancies - a situation resulting from years of neglect in police recruitment and retention. However, since the announcement on 31 October 2023 that the Minns Labor Government would pay recruits to study at Goulburn Police Academy, over 1,424 applications have been received - a more than 40% increase compared to the same period last year.

Recruitment Boosts

Evidence of the Government’s successful recruitment strategy includes Class 364, which is set to graduate in December at full capacity, with more than 350 recruits.

Two new programs have been specifcally designed to attract more regional recruits and experienced offcers to the NSW Police Force:

• Regional Recruitment Scheme: The ‘You Should Be a Cop in Your Hometown’ program ensures that people from regional NSW can serve in or near their hometown after graduating from the Academy. This program allows recruits from regional NSW to request to return to their hometown or nearby community, giving preference to these recruits for flling local vacancies.

• Experienced Offcer

Mixed Bag Budget

Recruitment Scheme:

The Professional Mobility Program (PMP) incentivizes offcers from other Australian states, territories, and New Zealand to join the NSW Police Force while retaining their equivalent rank (up to senior constable level six). Previously, serving offcers had to complete eight months of study, including four months in-person at the Academy, starting at the rank of probationary constable. Successful applicants now undergo a three-month course at the Academy focused on NSW policing policies and procedures, with pay equivalent to current student police offcers.

Ms. Saffn remains optimistic about achieving the 24/7 policing goal for Murwillumbah and improving overall police presence and community safety in the region.

As the New South Wales Budget is unveiled by the Labor Government, Tamara Smith MP, Member for Ballina, acknowledges some positive outcomes for her community amidst a generally challenging budget. A notable highlight is the allocation of $8 million for a new, purpose-built Fire and Rescue Station in Byron Bay. “Huge congratulations to Zone Commander Greg Lewis and the team at Byron Fire and Rescue, and all our frefghters for their advocacy and unwavering service in a substandard station for years. This muchneeded facility also includes additional staffng, which will result in safer communities and betterequipped frefghters. It is essential that the Emergency Services Minister consults with our Zone Commander and local frefghters to understand staffng needs for Byron Bay,” Ms. Smith said.

Ms. Smith also welcomes the $10.6 million investment in new social housing projects and $1.5 million for upgrading existing housing stock in the Ballina electorate. Additionally, the budget allocates $5.5 million for safety improvements on the Bruxner Highway, $1.4

With infation effecting the lives of many, we don’t want you to miss out on enjoying your life. To help out with the cost of living, we have teamed up with some local businesses to offer discounts through a range of different products and services. Get in contact with these businesses today to fnd out more details.

Each business will have there own terms and conditions. Please contact them today to fnd out more.

million for the Ballina Hospital redevelopment, and $13 million for the Community Transport Program.

“This is all welcome news, and I congratulate the community for their pressure on the government to ensure these vital projects were funded,” she stated. “It is pleasing to see $26.9 million specifcally set aside for the Ballina electorate in the Resilient Homes and Resilient Lands Programs, which will hopefully translate to a signifcant number of house raises and retrofts.”

However, Ms. Smith expressed disappointment that the promised recurrent funding for vital social service supports in the community was not included. “It is with great concern that I note the NSW Budget does not prioritize funding for frontline community services that

support rough sleepers and people facing homelessness in our area,” she said.

Budget Allocations for the Ballina Electorate:

• $8 million for a new Fire and Rescue Station in Byron Bay

• $10.4 million under the Resilient Lands Program

• $5.5 million for safety improvements on the Bruxner Highway

• $1.4 million for the Ballina District Hospital redevelopment

• $1.5 million for social housing upgrades

• $10.6 million for new social housing projects

• 13 new school crossing supervisors

• $79 million under the Fixing Country Bridges Program (out of a total of $500 million)

• $50 million under the Fixing Local Roads Program (out of a total of $500 million)

• $13 million for the Community Transport Program

Janelle Saffn and Chris Minns, Murwillumbah Police Station

Tamara Smith MP, Member for Ballina

NSW State Budget Roundup

The NSW 2024/25 State Budget has been announced, highlighting several key allocations for the Northern Rivers region.

Health

• $723.3 million for the Tweed Hospital and Integrated Ambulatory Service redevelopment.

• $263.8 million for the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment.

• $2 million for Ballina District Hospital Redevelopment Planning.

Education

• New public preschools in Lennox Head and Wollongbar.

• Continuation of the Lennox Head Public School relocation and redevelopment. Community and Justice

• $8.2 million for the replacement of the Byron Bay Fire Station. Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure

• $485 million for the Resilient Homes Program to enable food tolerance for existing houses, including house raisings, repairs, retrofts, and voluntary buybacks.

• $87.4 million for the Resilient Lands Program to identify food-safe land suitable for redevelopment to help relocate Northern Rivers residents impacted by the 2022 foods.

• $5 million for a local government economic and business package for the Northern Rivers to improve the recovery of food-affected towns.

• $3 million to help food survivors return to their homes following the 2022 foods in Lismore, supporting the Two Rooms Project. For more details, you can view the full NSW 2024-25 Budget https:// www.budget.nsw.gov. au/

RDA Stakeholder Survey

The National Regional Development Australia Network is seeking

feedback from stakeholders through the 2024 RDA Stakeholder Survey. This survey will build on fndings from previous surveys conducted in 2019 and 2021, supporting ongoing improvements to the RDA program. If you are involved in regional economic development, please consider completing this 15-minute survey by July 10, 2024. Access the survey https:// artdconsultants.au1. qualtrics.com/jfe/form/ SV_bDfcG1f8SU0p3ro

More News for Our Region Changes for Businesses from July 1, 2024

Northern Rivers businesses should be aware of changes to the National Minimum Wage, casual employment, and business name and company registration fees. For more information, visit the Australian Government’s business.gov.au website.

Council Updates

• Richmond Valley Council: Last chance to comment on the draft Place Plans for Coraki, Woodburn, Broadwater, Rileys Hill, and Evans Head. Submissions close on June 23, 2024. View current exhibition items https://richmondvalley. nsw.gov.au/council/ on-exhibition/currentexhibition-items/ • Byron Shire Council: Seeking public comments on options for securing Mullumbimby’s water supply for the future. Submissions close on June 30, 2024. Make a submission on the Mullumbimby Water Strategy Your Say page or via email, letter, phone, or face-to-face. https://www.byron.nsw. gov.au/Council/ReportRequests-Feedback/ Your-Say/SecuringMullumbimbys-watersupply#Mullumbimbywater-supply-scenarios

• Ballina Shire

Council: Hosting a free workshop on erosion and sediment control for the local construction industry on July 2, 2024, from 5 pm to 6:30 pm at the Ballina Surf Club. Register https://ballina. nsw.gov.au/erosionand-sediment-control

o Seeking feedback on the Wollongbar Housing Project. Submissions close on July 5, 2024. More information and submission details https://ballina.nsw. gov.au/erosion-andsediment-control

Events

Future Farmers Feast

Tweed Richmond Organic Producers Organisation (TROPO), supported by Byron Shire Council, will host a day of celebration, connection, and learning while feasting on local produce. There will be a panel of local farmers sharing their experiences. Learn more and book https:// events.humanitix.com/ farmers-feast

Opportunities

Innovate to Grow: Clean Energy

A free 10-week virtual, self-paced learning program for small-tomedium-sized enterprises working on innovative technologies or solutions in the clean energy sector in Australia. Applications close on June 23, 2024. Apply https://www. csiro.au/en/work-withus/funding-programs/ SME/Innovate-toGrow/CleanEnergy#ati d=e821a9acaa940339

CSIRO Generation STEM Links

An internship program that pairs NSW students in their penultimate or fnal year of study in STEM degrees with industry partners. Businesses receive a $2,500 grant to employ an intern for a 200-hour project. Applications are now open. Apply https://www.csiro.au/ en/education/Programs/ Generation-STEM/

Community-Led Disaster Resilience Model

Monash University

Links-program

Government

Consultations Closing Soon Commonwealth Procurement Rules

The Department of Finance is seeking public consultation on how to update and strengthen guidance for offcials and suppliers. Submissions close on July 3, 2024. Provide feedback https://www.fnance. gov.au/government/ procurement/publicconsultation-economicbenefts-guidance

Draft National Urban Policy

The Australian Government is seeking feedback on the draft National Urban Policy. An in-person workshop will be held in Brisbane on July 1, 2024. Submissions close on July 4, 2024. Provide feedback https://www. infrastructure.gov.au/ have-your-say/nationalurban-policy-australia

North Coast Strategic Pest and Animal Management Plan

The NSW North Coast Regional Strategic Pest Animal Management Plan supports a collaborative approach to managing pest animals. Submissions close on July 8, 2024. Provide feedback https://www. haveyoursay.nsw. gov.au/pest-animalmanagement-plansnsw/north-coast

Unlocking Green Metal Opportunities for a Future Made in Australia

The Australian Government is seeking feedback on a discussion paper regarding the production of low emissions iron, steel, alumina, and aluminium. Submissions close on July 14, 2024. Provide feedback https:// consult.industry.gov.au/ unlocking-green-metals

A new report from Monash University’s Fire to Flourish program has highlighted how a community-led approach to disaster resilience is delivering signifcant benefts to affected communities.

As climate disasters become more frequent and severe, supporting local communities in enhancing their preparedness, response, and recovery efforts is crucial. The 2023 Impact Report from Fire to Flourish, part of the Monash Sustainable Development Institute, is based on a fve-year collaborative program aimed at advancing community-led disaster recovery and long-term resilience.

Community-Led Model

The community-led model acknowledges that each community’s strengths and priorities are unique. Local people are best positioned to identify their needs, and through fexible funding, capability building, and diverse forms of support, Fire to Flourish enables communities to achieve their disaster resilience goals over the long term.

The report showcases the positive impacts of this approach on communities affected by the 2019/20 bushfres and demonstrates how a community-led strategy can lead to measurable improvements in disaster resilience.

Professor Briony Rogers, Chief Executive Offcer of Fire to Flourish, emphasizes that the current approach to disaster resilience and recovery is inadequate, necessitating innovation and experimentation to develop new tools and knowledge that better support communities in future disasters.

“In a short period, the work of Fire to Flourish and our approach of partnering directly with local communities is showing tangible progress in community disaster resilience and preparedness,” Professor Rogers said. “Our Impact Report clearly shows that our community-led delivery model works and is benefting the people that need it most.”

Impact Evidence

The report uses a combination of qualitative

and quantitative evidence to demonstrate the social, economic, cultural, health, built, and natural environmental benefts experienced by four partner communities: Tenterfeld, Eurobodalla, Clarence Valley, and East Gippsland.

Helen Duroux, a Kamilaroi Elder and Fire to Flourish Tenterfeld Community Lead, shared the unique experience of Indigenous communities during disasters. “Our connection to Country means it affects us differently. After the recent fres, my sister and I saw the devastation to the land. It was so hard for us to see Country the way it was. As Aboriginal people, when our Country is devastated, so are we,” she said.

Community Response and Advocacy

In response to a fre event in late 2023, the Tenterfeld Fire to Flourish team mobilized quickly, coordinating hands-on support, facilitating rapid response grants, sharing critical information, and advocating for the community’s needs with relevant agencies. This approach elevated community voices within interagency meetings and other important forums, transforming local decision-making and increasing community members’ sense of agency and control during an uncertain and traumatic period.

“The granting system was only effective because it was entrusted to local people with local knowledge to make the decisions. We are the ones on the ground, connected with people and place, and we know where the greatest needs are,” Ms. Duroux explained.

Future Opportunities

Professor Rogers highlighted the potential of the Fire to Flourish program to advance community-led disaster resilience across Australia. “This work flls a gap in Australia’s current disaster management sector, and we see real opportunity to share this model with other communities nationwide.”

To learn more about Fire to Flourish or participate in this initiative, please visit fretofourish. monash.

12th, 13th & 14th July

Open Times:

Friday: 7pm - 9pm Saturday: 9am - 5pm

Sunday: 9am - 3pm

BENTLEY PUBLIC HALL: MIDWAY BETWEEN LISMORE & KYOGLE

Come along to the Bentley Art Prize: Art, Market Stalls and Family Fun

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FEATURE

37th Bentley Art Prize promises to be a great event

By Samantha Elley

There has been a changing of the guard in the running of the 37th Bentley Art Prize for 2024.

For the past 18 years Bentley’s Helen Trustum has been running the show, but she has now stepped down and a new committee of eight, headed by Gordon Serone, will be taking over.

“Helen’s service to the community, for which we give hearfelt thanks, has been truly amazing,” said Gordon.

“We wish her a relaxing retirement and hope she’ll come along to join in the fun, with no responsibility.”

This year’s Bentley Art Prize is on the weekend of July 12-14, starting on the Friday night with a cheese and wine event.

“Judging will take place on Friday afternoon,” said Gordon.

“The deadline for entry submissions will be June 28 and all entries need to be at the (Bentley) hall by Thursday afternoon, July 11.

“Because the prize will be in the school holidays, if

Bentley Public Hall

Midway between Lismore & Kyogle

12th, 13th & 14th July 2024

Open Times: Friday - 7pm - 9pm

Saturday - 9am - 5pm Sunday - 9am - 3pm

Entry forms to: bentleyartprize2@gmail.com

Bentley Art Prize c/o 750 Manifold Rd, Bentley NSW, 2480

Entries Close 28th June 2024.

0413 417 543 - Meg Follow us on Facebook

the schools want to deliver their submissions, they can deliver directly to 56 O’neill Road, Bentley.

“We’ve also changed the categories where we took out the Golden Oldies section because everyone is an oldie now.”

All the regular sponsors have continued with their support, collectively donating prizes of over $14,000.

“We are very thankful to Richmond Dairies, Richmond Valley Council, the Casino RSM Club, Macdonalds pharmacy and Dr Castagna and Richmond Valley Library,” said Gordon.

With the expectation of over 300 entries this year, Gordon said the event is shaping up to be a fabulous weekend.

“Starting with the entertainment by Jamie Sullivan on Friday night, Luke Vassella on Saturday and Croaker and the Honeybee and Sylvia Nowlan on Sunday,” said Gordon. Judging will be done by artist Harry Westera. His work can be seen at facebook.com.au/harrywesteraart

The cost of submitting an artwork is $10, or free for school children.

Samantha’s Book

Byron Writers Festival 2024 Program Announced

Murder was not on the agenda today

Title: What would Lavonda Robinette Do?

Author: Kirsten Maron

Price: $30.95

Publisher: Shawline

Publishing By Samantha Elley

When you are used to being charge in everything to do with your life, it really sucks when things start going out of control.

At least, that is what LaVonda Robinette is experiencing.

She knows she can be bossy but that is sometimes the only way to get things done. Lately, however, people and events in LaVonda’s life are not going to plan.

First, her husband of 25 years walks out on her, then she has a terrible run-in with her work colleague. Finally, the cherry

Australia’s largest regional writers’ festival, the Byron Writers Festival, has announced its full program for 2024, scheduled for August 9-11. This year’s theme, ‘From the ground up,’ will be explored by 160 writers, including notable fgures such as Trent Dalton, Richard Flanagan, Jane Harper, Melissa Lucashenko, Charlotte Wood, Bruce Pascoe, Bob Brown, Julia Baird, Nam Le, Ali Cobby Eckermann, Lynette Noni, Bryan Brown, Tony Birch, William McInnes, Chigozie Obioma, Caoilinn Hughes, Tayi Tibble, Meena Kandasamy, Louise Milligan, Kim Williams, Kerry O’Brien, and many others.

Among the international guests are Chigozie Obioma, a two-time Booker Prize fnalist; Caoilinn Hughes, a signifcant Irish literary voice; Leo Vardiashvili, a UK-based novelist; Meena Kandasamy, an Indian activist; and award-winning Maori poet Tayi Tibble.

Featured

Conversations and Panels

• Trent Dalton in conversation with Julia Baird

• Charlotte Wood and Ailsa Piper on grief and forgiveness

• Richard Flanagan on his memoir Question 7

• David Marr on colonial myths

• Steph Tisdell on writing with humor

industry

• Suzie Miller on her play Prima Facie

• William McInnes’s memories of Australia

Climate and Environment

Special events feature Bob Brown, Richard Flanagan, David Lindenmayer, Ali Cobby Eckermann, and Sue Higginson discussing environmental topics.

Other speakers include James Bradley, Joelle Gergis, and Daniel Harrison.

Politics and Media

• Nick Bryant, John Lyons, and Meena Kandasamy on the ‘Mega Election Year’

• Kim Williams AM and Kerry O’Brien on the ABC’s future

keynote ‘Gala: From the ground up’. Other events feature William McInnes, Steph Tisdell, Ali Cobby Eckermann, Jim Moginie, and ‘Electric Poetics’ with Tayi Tibble, Meena Kandasamy, Nam Le, Jazz Money, Mitch King, and Nicole Smede.

Young Adult and Kids Programs

on the cake, she experiences her frst hot fush in a crowded supermarket. On her birthday.

It all seems like too much, but then her colleague is accidentally, but conveniently, killed.

Can LaVonda get away with murder? Or should she confess?

This sharp, witty story is the second complete book for author Kirsten Maron who has been creating stories since she frst learned to write.

At six years old she won her frst literary and only award with a clever and cunning retelling of Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are.

She lives in rural NSW with her husband and several bossy kangaroos.

You can order your copy of What would LaVonda Robinette do? From shawlinepublishing. com.au

The festival, set in the picturesque Bundjalung Country in Bangalow, near Byron Bay, offers writing workshops, book launches, a children’s program, and events across the Northern Rivers region. Jessica Alice, the incoming Artistic Director, curated the 2024 program, emphasizing the theme’s focus on community mobilization and new beginnings.

International and Bestselling Authors

• Crime Writers: Jane Harper, Candice Fox, Matthew Condon, Bryan Brown in conversation with Jennifer Byrne Memoir and Music

• Kon Karapanagiotidis’s Greek kitchen

• Priya Nadesalingam’s Home to Biloela

• Nicky Winmar’s stand against racism

• Gideon Haigh on his brother’s loss

• Rebecca Huntley’s memoir Sassafras

• Jim Moginie and Kate Ceberano on the music

• Amy McQuire, Louise Milligan, Nick Bryant, and Julianne Schultz on press freedom

Northern Rivers Writers

Over 40 local writers are featured, including Daniel Browning, Mykaela Saunders, Jodi Rodgers, Isabelle Reinecke, Mindy Woods, Annika Johansson, Mandy Nolan, and Rhoda Roberts AO.

Feature Events

Evening events include ‘Bob Brown in Conversation’ with Jan Fran and the festival

YA fction fans can look forward to appearances by Lynette Noni, Lili Wilkinson, Steph Tisdell, and Graham Akhurst. The Kids Big Day Out program on Sunday morning features presentations by Bob Brown, Kate & Jol Temple, Peter Carnavas, and Matt Stanton, along with StorySpace workshops.

Festival Dates and Tickets

Byron Writers Festival 2024 will take place from August 9-11 at the Bangalow Showground and various venues. Tickets are now on sale via the QR code below.

By Rob Heyward

Freedom of Entry to the city

Lismore is set to host a Freedom of Entry Parade by the 41st Battalion on June 22, 2024, a timehonoured tradition dating back to medieval times. Later in the evening, the battalion will also participate in the iconic Lismore Lantern Parade.

The ceremonial event will feature up to 200 soldiers from the Northern Rivers, accompanied by a military marching band, as they enter the heart of Lismore in full regalia. They will be halted and formally challenged by Richmond Police District Commander Superintendent Scott Tanner and Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg.

Mayor Krieg emphasized the signifcance of the event:

“The Freedom of Entry march is a cherished tradition that underscores the strong bond between Lismore and the 41st Battalion. The battalion has consistently supported our community, most notably during the February 2022 natural disaster and the 2019 bushfres. It is an honour to host this ceremony and present the Commanding Offcer of the 41st Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Danial Healy, with a scroll authorizing the granting of Freedom of Entry. This is the highest honour a city can bestow on the Australian Defence Force. I

encourage everyone to come out, watch the parade, and support our 41st before staying on for the wonderful Lantern Parade.”

The parade will commence on Magellan Street and proceed to the cenotaph in front of the Lismore Memorial Baths on Molesworth Street. Along the route, the soldiers will be halted as the Local Police Commander and Mayor formally challenge their right of entry into the

city, before continuing to the Baths. The parade will start at 1 p.m. and conclude around 2 p.m. Later that evening, members of the Battalion will join the Lismore Lantern Parade, celebrating its 30th year of bringing light to the heart of the community.

Lieutenant Colonel Healy highlighted the importance of the event: “Exercising the battalion’s Freedom of Entry is a vital symbol of our close ties with the

local community. Our soldiers were deeply involved in the frst response to the 2022 foods, with many of our members living and working in the area. This parade is an opportunity for the Army to deepen our connection with the City of Lismore, and our soldiers are eagerly anticipating the chance to showcase our unit as a prelude to the Lantern Parade.”

Jyllie Jackson, Creative Director of the Lismore Lantern Parade, remarked on the long-standing relationship between the 41st Battalion and Lismore: “It’s ftting that the 41st Battalion is granted Freedom of Entry as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Lantern Parade. The day’s activities will include markets and kids’ activities, and the ADF band will also march with the Lantern Parade in the evening.”

Warning: High-Dose MDMA Tablets Circulating in NSW

By Rob Heyward

NSW Health is alerting the public about highdose MDMA tablets (ecstasy) currently in circulation across NSW, which contain approximately double the amount of MDMA commonly found in other tablets. These grey, irregular-shaped tablets are imprinted with the text ‘LION’ on one side.

For images and further details on these high-dose MDMA tablets, please visit the QR code below.

been linked to serious illness and fatalities in NSW.

“MDMA can cause severe agitation, raised body temperature, seizures, irregular heart rhythm, and even death,” said Dr. Roberts. “The risks are heightened when MDMA is combined with other stimulants like amphetamines or cocaine. The amount of MDMA in a tablet

can vary signifcantly, even within the same batch. Health risks are greatly increased if high amounts are consumed over a short period.”

Dr. Roberts also highlighted the increased risk of harm from MDMA in hot environments, such as music festivals.

“Taking breaks from dancing, seeking shade, and drinking water are crucial to reducing the

risk of overheating. Remember, if you or a friend feels unwell after taking drugs, seek medical help immediately. You will not get into trouble for seeking care.”

Onsite medical providers and trained peer volunteers from programs like DanceWize NSW are available at many major festivals to support attendees. Other event

staff are also trained to assist.

For more information on staying safe and recognizing warning signs, see Stay OK at Music Festivals via the QR code below.

New Youth Participation Fund

Announced for Casino

Momentum Collective has secured a $76,363 grant through the Youth Participation Fund, a component of the Resilient Kids Program managed by Social Futures. This signifcant funding will support the organization’s efforts to engage and empower youth currently disengaged from school.

The Resilient Kids Program aims to foster resilience and active youth participation. Momentum Collective won this grant through a competitive tender process to implement a transformative program over the next twelve months.

Designed to run during the school term, the program targets students disconnected from traditional educational environments. Each term, Momentum Collective will conduct four dynamic workshops in partnership with local Elders, entrepreneurs, and community and emergency services. These workshops will focus on skill-building, social integration, community awareness, and having fun, culminating in a community celebration to showcase the participants’ progress and achievements.

Dr. Darren Roberts, Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, emphasized the dangers of consuming high doses of MDMA, which have

For details about the adverse effects of MDMA, contact the NSW Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26. For support with alcohol, MDMA, and other drugs, reach out to the Alcohol and Drug Information Service at 1800 250 015, a 24/7 confdential and anonymous telephone counselling service. The NSW Users and AIDS Association (NUAA) also provides harm minimization resources and advice, available at 1800 644 413.

Fiona Miller, Operations Manager at Momentum Collective, is enthusiastic about launching the frst program next month. The team is fnalizing plans to ensure the program delivers impactful and engaging experiences for the youth involved.

“The frst round of workshops, ‘Garden to Table,’ will focus on sourcing food, budgeting, shopping, meal prep, and serving. Through these activities, we believe participants will gain confdence, develop meaningful relationships, and build a strong sense of belonging. These are the key outcomes we aim to achieve with our program,” said Ms. Miller.

Manners & spanners in spades…

by Nigel Dawe

“High behaviour,” once said Ralph Waldo Emerson, “is as rare in fiction as it is in fact. Once or twice in a lifetime we are permitted to enjoy the charm of noble manners, in the presence of a man or woman who have no bar in their nature, but whose character emanates freely in their word and gesture.”

Which is a sentiment that directly reflects something Oscar Wilde once said; that as he was being led from court as a freshly convicted felon, through the jeering crowds he spotted a friend who doffed his hat out of respect. For the rest of his life this became the singular most noble and touching thing anyone had ever done for the fallen Irish playwright.

Fittingly, the American author, Emily Post once noted, “Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others. If you have that awareness, you have good manners, no matter what fork you use.” And it is a warped fixation on what cutlery we might use or misuse, that locates ‘fine manners’ in the realm of the often finicky, and pedantic. Though having said that, you can’t deny the undeniable relevance of Bennett Cerf’s missive, “Good manners: The noise you don’t make when you’re eating soup.”

The self-confessed “elegantologist” and absolute giant of French literature, Honore de Balzac once wrote a ‘Treatise on Elegant Living’ in 1830. To this day it is well worth a read, as it nonchalantly meanders through every conceivable convention and consideration when it comes to having good manners. As such, the

NSW BUDGET: PEOPLE POWER KEEPS GRAFTON HOSPITAL REBUILD ON TRACK

The $263.8 million Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment will get almost $15 million over the next 12 months, according to the NSW State Budget announced on Tuesday, Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson says.

Hospital will support timely access to healthcare and improve patient outcomes and experience.

and staff workfows as well as additional beds and clinical support services,” Mr Williamson said.

Frenchman who was famously known for consuming 50 coffees a day, makes note in his Treatise, “It is not enough to become or to be born rich to lead an elegant life: one must feel it.”

Relatedly, if you ‘aren’t feeling’ something whilst you’re actually doing it, you become that person on every dance floor when the Nutbush comes on, who is always that half-a-step behind everyone else, taking their cues from what they see, and not from what they feel, trust or innately fathom. Beautifully, the Irish writer Laurence Sterne once chimed, “Respect for ourselves guides our morals, respect for others guides our manners.”

To be deliberately repulsive or offensive is to advertise so many despicable facets of yourself, that you couldn’t remotely comprehend the adverse impact it has on how you might be perceived. Aptly, J. Irwin Miller once said, “The decline of manners, the cynical pursuit without shame or restraint of personal advantage and of money characterises our times, not without exceptions, of course, but more than we ought to be comfortable with.”

And thus, being uncomfortable with, albeit outright unaccepting of, someone else’s lack of manners is the first sign that all hope is not lost, when it comes to the possibility that respect for everyone by everyone, might one day reign supreme. Or as the ever sublime-minded George Bernard Shaw once gleaned, “The great secret is not having bad manners or good manners, but having the same manner for all human souls.”

“This Sydney-based Labor Government is cutting regional investment left, right and centre, so this is a really big win we have achieved, thanks to the Clarence Valley community uniting to help me keep the project on track,” Mr Williamson said.

“The Budget papers lock in the redevelopment with $14.769 million in the coming fnancial year and $222.2 over the next four years, with 2030 as the target completion date.”

Mr Williamson said the Government concedes redevelopment of the Grafton Base

“Key features of the project include the expansion of the emergency department, the co-location of services to support better patient access

“We are still in the planning and design stages right now. The big bucks come when construction starts, but there is no stopping this Liberals and Nationals

Government initiative now.

“It’s important we provide the infrastructure and healthcare services to meet the growing and changing needs of the local community as well as provide a safe and modern work environment to attract and strengthen the workforce to meet future demand.

“The funding in the 2024-2025 State Budget is very welcome and a very important step in the positive progress in the redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital.”

Mr Williamson said community and stakeholder input is an essential part of planning the redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital, and he looks forward to providing updates throughout all stages of the redevelopment, which includes feedback from the local community.

Federal Drive Update

The reopening of Federal Drive, initially slated for June, has been rescheduled to late July following signifcant damage from a major landslip during the 2022 food event.

Evan Elford, Manager of Infrastructure Recovery at Byron Shire Council, explained that persistent wet weather has necessitated further

delays. “Continual wet conditions over the past few months have led to the formation of underground springs. Consequently, contractors must perform additional drainage work before proceeding with sealing the road,” Mr. Elford stated.

“This drainage work is crucial to prevent underground water from

compromising the road surface. We expect to complete the drainage work this week and begin sealing the road next week. The seal will need one week to set, followed by line marking and guardrail installation. If everything goes as planned, we anticipate reopening the road to traffc in late July,” he added.

Mr. Elford expressed gratitude for residents’ patience and noted that a fnal seal and followup maintenance are scheduled for October, after the road has settled. This may cause minor traffc delays.

The project is funded by the NSW Government through natural disaster recovery arrangements.

Clarence Nationals MP, Richie Williamson with the Shadow Minister for Regional Health, Bronnie Taylor who has been a strong advocate for the redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital.

Koala Funding Insuffcient to Protect Species, Says Conservation Group

By Rob Heyward

The leading koala conservation and rehabilitation organization in the Northern Rivers region has expressed concern that the NSW State Budget does not provide adequate funding to protect the iconic koala species from extinction, despite the allocation for the Koala Strategy.

Friends of the Koala had requested an annual investment of $500,000 for its Northern Rivers Koala Hospital. This funding was intended to cover equipment costs, veterinary staff, and the implementation of critical Chlamydia vaccination projects. Additionally, they sought $200,000 to support the operation of their koala rescue and rehabilitation teams, including enhancing their capacity to respond during natural disasters.

The organization also

asked for a $750,000 capital investment to upgrade and extend its hospital and rehabilitation facilities.

Friends of the Koala treats and rehabilitates more than 350 koalas annually, with the number of koalas entering care increasing by 20% in the past fnancial year.

General Manager Silva Everaers highlighted the urgent need for funds: “Research continues to show that

koala populations in the Northern Rivers are of state signifcance. We are deeply concerned that delays in funding will jeopardize our ability to continue our vital work effectively.”

Everaers noted that while the Environment Minister acknowledged the need to review the NSW Koala Strategy and appreciated their participation in the NSW Koala Summit and the Koala Strategy Discussion Paper, the

Budget fails to provide the necessary funding to implement these commitments.

“The necessity to fund the vital work done by koala hospitals and rehabilitators cannot wait. The survival of our organization, and koalas, depends on it. We need the resources to continue saving koalas every single day – and we need them now,” Everaers emphasized.

Friends of the Koala is supported by 300

volunteers contributing approximately 75,500 hours of unpaid work annually, representing over $3.5 million saved on service costs. This allows the organization to allocate all revenue towards the support, care, and conservation of koalas.

President Allison Kelly highlighted the organization’s long history of conservation efforts: “For almost four decades, we have worked to conserve koala habitat

and protect koalas, rescuing over 6,000 koalas and releasing more than 2,000 back into the wild.”

Kelly also mentioned their collaboration within the Northern Rivers Koala Network and the formation of the NSW Koala Hospital Alliance with Port Stephens Koala Hospital and Koala Conservation Australia Ltd to support each other’s work and advocate for change across the sector.

“We are frustrated that our efforts and those of the whole sector are not acknowledged in this budget. The wildlife sector across the state provides the government and the people of NSW with an army of passionate individuals working to save and protect our wildlife for future generations. It’s time this is recognized, applauded, and funded properly,” Kelly said.

Explore the Theme ‘Rising’ for Climate Conversations 2025

Byron Shire Council invites expressions of interest from artists to explore the theme ‘Rising – the growing urgency and consciousness to meet climate challenges.’

“We are thrilled to announce ‘Rising’ as the theme for Climate Conversations 2025,” said Sarah Harvey, Gallerist at Lone Goat Gallery. “This biennial initiative invites Northern Rivers artists to collaborate with the community, exploring ways to adapt, reorganize, and evolve in response to climate change through the arts.”

Harvey emphasized the timeliness of the theme: “With soaring temperatures, swelling

oceans, and escalating natural disasters, Earth’s fragile equilibrium is at risk. ‘Rising’ embodies the necessity to embrace our roles as environmental stewards and to unite in collective action.”

Artists are encouraged to submit innovative project proposals that

engage the community and align with the theme. Selected artists will receive a $5,000 fee to develop new work, up to $2,000 for public program delivery, and a one-month exhibition at Lone Goat Gallery in 2025.

Climate Conversations, an initiative by Lone

Goat Gallery and Byron Shire Council, encourages artists to undertake climate-related projects. Proposals that incorporate creative collaborations and participatory activities to stimulate important community discussions about climate change are highly encouraged.

“Projects with a strong community focus will be given special consideration,” Harvey noted. “Our goal is to support artists in fostering new ways of thinking and talking about climate change through art.”

Submission Details: • Theme: Rising – the

growing urgency and consciousness to meet climate challenges

• Support: $5,000 artist’s fee, up to $2,000 for public programs, one-month exhibition

• Eligibility: Open to all Northern Rivers artists, art producers, and artist teams • Deadline: Expressions of interest are now open Interested artists can apply via the Byron Shire Council’s website or visit www. lonegoatgallery.com/ climate-conversations for more information. Join us in this vital artistic endeavour to inspire, engage, and challenge our community towards a sustainable future.

State Government Delivers a “No Frills” Budget

Local Government NSW (LGNSW), the peak body for all 128 councils across the state, acknowledges some positive announcements in the State Budget presented by Treasurer Daniel Mookhey. LGNSW President Darriea Turley AM expressed satisfaction with several commitments that align with LGNSW priorities and beneft the local government sector and the broader community.

Among the notable announcements are funding allocations for housing, road repairs, disaster recovery, prevention of domestic and family violence, and a signifcant investment to boost the capacity of the NSW Offce of Local Government (OLG).

“As widely anticipated, the Treasurer has handed down a conservative budget for 2024-25, refecting the state’s ongoing struggle with postpandemic and natural disaster budget repair, persistent infation, and a deepening housing crisis,” said Cr Turley. “With the budget forecast to be in defcit over the next four years, there is an

understandable focus on reducing that shortfall and reining in state debt. Despite being a tight budget, it’s pleasing to see funding for several key concerns for which LGNSW has advocated strongly.”

Key Announcements

Relevant to the NSW Local Government Sector:

Housing:

• $5.1 billion over four years to build 8,400 social housing dwellings, with 6,200 of these being new builds. At least half of these new homes will be prioritized for victims and survivors of family and domestic violence.

o Cr Turley: “For years, LGNSW has been calling for meaningful investment in public, social, and affordable housing. Although the scale of need remains vast, this is a very welcome investment from the NSW Government for our most vulnerable communities.”

• $200.1 million to increase accommodation for rural and regional health workers.

o Cr Turley: “Too often, it has fallen to councils to provide this accommodation, which is a clear cost shift for

what should be a state and federal government responsibility. This investment is long overdue, and we would welcome any further measures to offset the current practice of cost-shifting onto local government.”

Road Repairs:

• $3.3 billion to repair local and state roads in areas impacted by natural disasters across NSW, as part of the $5.7 billion total investment in disaster relief and recovery over four years.

o Cr Turley: “The lack of funding for the maintenance of our roads is a constant source of frustration and concern for councils across the state, exacerbated by recent natural disasters. This funding will be very welcome, particularly in rural and regional NSW.”

Planning:

• $253.7 million over four years to 2027-28 to pay for NSW Government planners and technology to speed up the assessment of development applications, including $20.4 million to upgrade the NSW Planning Portal.

o Cr Turley: “It’s

pleasing to see some funds being directed at fxing operational issues with the Planning Portal, which has been plaguing councils for years and contributing to delays in development processing.”

• $200 million for fnancial incentives for councils that meet housing targets, for infrastructure, roads, open space, and community facilities.

o Cr Turley: “This funding was frst announced in May, but it remains unclear how it will work given that the government is measuring these targets by dwelling completions (not approvals). It makes no sense for councils to be marked against whether new homes are completed when this is beyond the control of local government.”

Primary Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence:

• $38.3 million over four years for the implementation of “Pathways to Prevention,” NSW’s frst dedicated strategy for the Prevention of Domestic, Family, and Sexual Violence.

o Cr Turley: “Our communities bear the direct brunt of domestic

and family violence. LGNSW contributed to the development of this strategy, which seeks to develop a range of initiatives to address the drivers of domestic, family, and sexual violence, and we’re optimistic that the strategy will include funded measures for local government.”

Offce of Local Government Funding:

• $37.4 million additional funding over four years to build the capacity of the Offce of Local Government (OLG), nearly doubling its operational budget.

o Cr Turley: “LGNSW has repeatedly advocated for better resourcing of the OLG so that it can better support the local government sector.”

While welcoming the signifcant investment in several key local government priorities, Cr Turley pointed out some disappointing funding gaps.

“Only $43.1 million has been allocated to support water infrastructure, reduce leaks, and improve water effciency and drought resilience across NSW,” she said. “This falls short of the $217.5 million

allocated last year to the Safe and Secure Water Program (SSWP). The lack of signifcant new funding to support the necessary infrastructure to enable the anticipated increase in housing density is also a missed opportunity.”

“Overall, the sector welcomes the increased funding measures announced today, but none of them will alleviate the overall concerns about fnancial sustainability for our sector,” Cr Turley said. “The current Parliamentary inquiry into local government’s ability to fund infrastructure and services, as well as the State Government review of the Emergency Services Levy (ESL), present signifcant opportunities for reform towards a fairer, more sustainable funding model for local government.”

“LGNSW will continue to advocate strongly for the sector to hold the State and Federal governments accountable and ensure our councils and communities are strengthened and enhanced well into the future.”

Installation view of the 2023 Climate Conversations project ‘Mending & Tending: Art that works for Nature’, 2023. Photo by Jaka Adamic.

Artist in Conversation, Shona Wilson and Dr Eshana Bragg during the 2023 Climate Conversations project ‘Mending & Tending: Art that works for Nature’, 2023. Photo by Jaka Adamic.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX MARKET REPORT WEEK 19/06/2024

Yarding Increases to 2000 Head at NRLX Cattle Sales

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) in Casino saw an increase in yarding, reaching 2000 head this week. The yarding included a larger number of weaner cattle and a good supply of cows.

Young Cattle Market:

• Vealers and Weaners: The yarding primarily consisted of vealers and weaners, with only a few pens of yearlings offered.

• Market Trends: The market was generally cheaper; however, buyers from Queensland and the Tablelands helped stabilize prices for some lines.

• Restocker Weaner Steers: Prices were down by 10 cents, selling from 236c to 356c, with an average of 311c/kg.

• Restocker Weaner Heifers: Prices dropped by 10 to 15 cents, ranging from 170c to 282c, with medium weights averaging 226c/kg.

• Yearlings: Limited numbers were offered, with steers topping at 290c and heifers selling up to 240c/kg.

Export Cattle Market:

• Cows: The yarding of export cattle was mainly composed of cows, with a limited supply of grown steers and heifers.

WARWICK

LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK & DISTRICT W/E 21/06/2024

Agents and vendors combined to have similar numbers for the weekly livestock sales in Warwick this week. The markets were back in line with sales from across the border, but there were some fresher, better types bringing a better result. The fresh livestock as long as they have fnish for the weight are the market movers. This was more applicable to the sheep and lamb sale.

Cattle sale numbers reached 1043 head to see a market that was back for the unfnished articles and up slightly for the better feed on types. Sheep and lamb markets saw the same follow-on patterns with 1609 head.

Vealer steers av 284.7c/kg topping at 392.2c/kg or $634.77 to $958.23

Vealer heifers av 236.6c/kg topping at 306.2c/kg or $529.51 to $904.86

Feeder steers av 320.6c/kg topping at 360c/kg or $1226.58 to $1633.50

Feeder heifers av 278.5c/kg topping at 305c/kg or $1035.74 to $1193.86

Yearling steers av 301.9c/kg topping at 380c/kg or $946.15 to $1376.26

Yearling heifers av 253.3c/kg topping at 376.2c/kg or $845.03 to $1410.75

Steers av 277.1c/kg topping at 345c/kg or $1436.43 to $1906.13

Heifers av 245.1c/kg topping at 310c/kg or $1228.75 to $1829.00

• Grown Steers and Heifers: Grown steers topped at 255c, while grown heifers sold up to 265c/kg.

• Plain Cows: There was an increase in the number of plain cows yarded this week, with the market down by 10 cents.

o Medium Weight 2 Score Cows: Sold from 140c to 170c.

Statistics By Stock Type

The increase in numbers and the presence of buyers from various regions contributed to a relatively stable market despite overall lower prices.

Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange

Report Prepared At 18:21 Wednesday, June 19, 2024 By KB1 At

Manufacturing steers av and topped at 229.2c/kg or $1226.22

Cows av 180.3c/kg topping at 220.2c/kg or $894.54 to $1618.76

Bulls av 219.8c/kg topping at 268.2c/kg or $1086.11 to $2280.96

Lambs topped at $194 to av $119.98 ($36 down)

Hoggets topped at $130 to av $84 ($6 down)

Ewes topped at $121 to av $60.18 ($ par) Wethers topped at $95 to av $72.59 ($11 up )

Rams topped at $74 to av $63 ($21 up) Lamb rams topped at $166 to av $72.95 ($17/head down)

The total yarding of 1609 head saw the value decline by $13/head week on week.

Pork numbers were back, but the prices were stable. Boars sold to $140, Pork from $194 to $225, Stores from $40 to $133

Poultry numbers were back but prices were consistent. Pullets sold to $27.50, Ducks to $40, Ducklings to $12, Guinea Fowl to $17.50, Hens to $22.50, Roosters to $25, Turkeys to $30

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

Agents and vendors today yarded a total of 1609 head of livestock for the weekly sale. The market was a 50/50 spit between Lambs and Mutton.

The lambs today topped at $194 to av $119.98 ($36 down), Hoggets topped at $130 to av $84 ($6 down), Ewes topped at $121 to av $60.18 (Par with last sale), Wethers topped at $95 to av $72.59 ($11 up), Rams topped at $74 to av $63 ($21 up ), Lamb rams topped at

$166 to av $72.95 ($17 down ). The market today was skewed with a greater percentage of lambs falling into the lightweight categories across the board. A client today offered a quantity of lambs to the wonderful Make A Wish Foundation the accolades are all with the vendor as we were soooo excited for the fnish to achieve $100 for the 35 kg lambs donated by Glen Bowman and purchased by Mc Intyre Meats , great work both parties.

Dan Roche sold Dorper x lambs 55kg to Take It Easy meats for $170

Mark Fowke sold Dorper x lambs 53.75 kg to Take IT Easy meats for $180, Ewes to Eversons for $75

Warren & Wendy Schelbach sold Dorper lambs 48kg to Eversons for $169

Rory & Kathy Frost sold Dorper x lambs 47.1kg to Grants Quality Meats & Tonys Supa Meats for 175, Charolais x 47kg to Leslie Lamb for $151

Ferrier Livestock sold Dorper lambs 43kg to Leslie Lamb for $151, 42.9kg to MC Mahon Bros for $146 Carbean Past Co sold Dorper lambs 57.5kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $194

MT Pleasant Primary Production sold Suffolk ewe lambs 49 kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $155, Rams to $74

Marty & Margie Kerlin sold Suffolk x lambs 72.5kg to restockers for $166, to Take IT Easy Meats for $150

Cooinda P/s sold Dorper lambs 40.1kg to restockers for $108, 42 kg to GR Prime for $88, 36.8kg to GR Prime for $89, Merino wethers to Eversons for $49, Merino wethers to Eversons for $50

Grant & Sandra Nowland sold Dorper lambs 38.9kg to GR Prime for $107

Stuart & Prue Barkla sold Dorset x lambs 44.5kg to Shelley F/T for $123, 41kg to Shelley F/T for $110, 30.7kg to restockers for $53

National Farmers’ Federation Acting CEO, Charlie Thomas’ Opening Statement on the Proposed Legislation to End Live Sheep Exports by Sea

Thank you for the opportunity to appear today and share our members’ serious concerns about this proposed legislation.

On Process:

From the moment this policy was inadvertently announced via an animal activist organization just two weeks from the Federal Election, the process has been a farce, and the hard-working people of our industry have been treated with absolute contempt.

We had to fght each step of the way for affected producers to have a fair hearing with the Independent Panel. We saw industry’s advice to that panel go unheeded in its fnal report. Then we saw the Minister go even further – rejecting key elements of the Panel’s advice to adopt a plan even more radical than that of the panel.

Then of course we have this inquiry. This is the only process to scrutinize the actual merits of this policy. And we’ve been granted just four business days to share our thoughts, or seven days’ notice for farmers in WA to take a day out from their business to attend the Muresk hearing.

If you wanted to design a process to dismiss and marginalize our members who are impacted by this policy, this would be it.

On Arguments for the Ban:

In summary, proponents

of this ban argue that the trade is in decline, has lost community support, and is a missed opportunity to create local jobs. Not only are these arguments untrue – with volumes up 30% year-on-year, pro-export petitions now exceeding those supporting a ban, and the Independent Panel itself casting doubt on job creation – they are staggeringly bad reasons to impose an unprecedented legislative ban on an industry.

In what universe would this Parliament simply start cancelling industries because they’ve contracted? Or set policies based purely on public popularity? That would be a grim state of

affairs for lawmaking.

If we accept those arguments are insuffcient to justify this Bill, then the remaining argument is, of course, animal welfare. Here again, we know the facts are on our side.

On Animal Welfare:

In 2017, the incident involving the Awassi Express shocked and disgusted farmers as much as it did the general public. That’s why we demanded and embraced sweeping reforms.

Those reforms – from changes to stocking densities, on-board reporting and care, the Northern Summer moratorium, and much more – have ensured

that in the past seven years we’ve seen a shift to gold-standard welfare outcomes onboard Australian vessels.

The data on mortality rates prove this. An Australian-regulated live export vessel is about the safest place a sheep can be.

On the Impact of the Bill:

The Ending Live Sheep Exports by Sea Bill will end a lot of things.

It will end Australia’s uplift of animal welfare standards in the Middle East.

It’ll end the livelihoods of farmers, shearers, truckies, agents, and stock handlers in WA.

It’ll end the strong trade and interpersonal ties

Australia has developed in the Middle East as a trusted food security partner.

In summary, it’ll end the tremendous amount of good this industry creates, both here and abroad.

Ironically, given the name, the one thing this Bill won’t end is live sheep exports by sea –because these markets have been categorical in their discussions with the NFF and publicly that they will simply shift supply.

Any fair dinkum investigation of the merits of this policy would see you step foot on a modern Australian live export vessel, and then go and do the

same in Sudan or South America.

By voting for this Bill, you are actively enabling practices we banned more than a decade ago.

On Precedent and Future Implications: This Bill sets a chilling precedent. It tells us that where industries face issues, invest heavily in reform, and go on to meet best practice standards – they can still be shut down if a misleading activist campaign can get 40,000 signatures on a petition using imagery from 10 years ago.

We worry because we know the stated goal of these same organizations is an end to animal agriculture in its entirety. We know the moment this is done; they simply shift their focus and questionable tactics to the next industry.

We know that every member of this committee is here because they share our passion for Australian farming. I trust that any of you thinking of supporting this bill are doing so because you believe that it is ultimately in the best interests of our industry. When it comes to our industry’s best interests, we implore you to listen to the farmers, not the fanatics. We are telling you loud and clear that this is a bad idea. I hope that something you hear during the course of these hearings will convince you of that.

Acting CEO Charlie Thomas, Rural Affairs General Manager Charlotte Wundersitz and Farming Systems Committee Chair Chris Groves at Parliament House for today’s hearing.

JUNE 27, 2024

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

Twin Towns is proud to present Bublé, Broadway & Beyond, a glorious daytime concert featuring a beautiful combination of story and song.

This uniquely intimate cabaret features stunning vocals and breathtaking piano arrangements of beloved songs from Michael Bublé, Elvis Presley, The Righteous Brothers and The Bee Gees, to name a few.

Led by acclaimed entertainer, director and theatre performer Thomas ArmstrongRobley (Jersey Boys, Essgee’s Pirates of Penzance) who comes to the show direct from

performances in over 35 countries, the production lovingly recreates these classic melodies with heart, humour and a humanity.

Also featuring renowned Queensland vocalist Ashleigh Denning and acclaimed musical director/ accompanist Matt Rofe, Bublé, Broadway & Beyond tips it’s cap to famed musicals including The Phantom of the Opera, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and The Wizard of Oz.

The show has been performed extensively in Australia and in 2023, performed to over 1500 guests at Brisbane City

Hall.

Don’t miss this unparalleled celebration of Bublé, Broadway & Beyond in its debut appearance at Twin Towns.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Tuesday 2nd July at 11am

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: From $10

• 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 What type of dinosaur has a large bony frill and three horns on the skull? (a) Triceratops (b) Velociraptor (c) Stegosaurus (d) Spinosaurus

2 Mount Ishizuchi is the highest mountain on which Japanese island?

(a) Shikoku (b) Hokkaido (c) Honshu (d) Kyushu

3 In which sport do you have a jammer line and a pivot line? (a) Water polo (b) Field hockey (c) Baseball (d) Roller derby

4 Leopold Bloom is the protagonist and hero of which classic novel? (a) Great Expectations (b) Ulysses (c) Crime and Punishment (d) Brave New World

5 The Ponte Vecchio is the oldest and most famous bridge in which Italian city? (a) Venice (b) Florence (c) Milan (d) Rome

6 How many times did Dylan Alcott win the Australian Open Wheelchair Quad Singles tournament? (a) Two (b) Three (c) Four (d) Seven

PUZZLES

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 CRAVEN

(a) Longing

(b) Cowardly

(c) Tactless

2 EVINCE

(a) To show clearly

(b) To pluck out

(c) To awaken in the mind

3 IRRISION

(a) Annoyance

(b) A sudden invasion

(c) The act of laughing at another

4 NEPOTISM

(a) The introduction of new things

(b) Total abstinence from alcoholic drinks

(c) Undue patronage to one’s relations

5 PERNICIOUS

(a) Highly injurious

(b) Exacting minute care

(c) Obstinate

MAIN

FRIDAY

SILENT WITNESS

ABC, 8.30pm

Before CSI and its multitude of spin-o shows graced our screens, there was Silent Witness. And the gripping UK crime drama is still going strong, almost three decades later. The award-winning show follows pathologist Dr Nikki Alexander (Emilia Fox, pictured), forensic expert Jack Hodgson (David Caves) and their dedicated team as they help police across the UK solve chilling murders by letting the victim – the “silent witness” – speak. In tonight’s season 26 nale, the evidence is mounting against an accused police o cer as the local criminal investigation department nds dissent within their ranks. The team unveils corruption and deceit, with deadly consequences.

FRIDAY, June 28

MONDAY TENNIS

9GEM, 8pm

Break out the white slacks, a bowl of strawberries and cream and even a Pimm’s cup – it’s that time of year again. The world’s tennis elite converge on SW19 for two weeks to catch some rare London sunshine and hopefully etch their name into the Grand Slam’s history books (the record £50 million prize pot also wouldn’t hurt). Though the time di too friendly to us Aussies, avid sports fans can begin building their late-night viewing stamina here ahead of the Paris Olympics, with host Roz Kelly, and expert commentators Jelena Dokic (pictured) and Brenton Speed ready to take us through every point. Local hopes Alex de Minaur and Ajla Tomljanovic lead the charge.

TUESDAY TIPPING POINT

AUSTRALIA

OLYMPIC SPECIALS

ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (6)

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (Final, R) 10.30 That Paci c Sports Show. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Madl, R) 2.00 The Split. (Ml, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Miriam & Alan: Lost In Scotland And Beyond… (PG, R) 4.45 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. Costa Georgiadis visits an ornamental garden.

8.30 Silent Witness. (Final, MA15+a) As the evidence mounts against the accused police o cer, the local CID nds dissent within their ranks.

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.

11.25 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R)

12.10 Love Your Garden. (R)

1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.10 Great Canal Journeys. (PGan, R) 11.05 Icons. (PGav, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The Dagger In The Cathedral Of Florence. (Mav, R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.30 Haka Warriors 2022. 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Haka Warriors 2023. 4.15 Scenic Coastal Walks With Kate Humble. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Movement And The Madman. (Ma)

8.30 Secrets Of The Lost Liners: Île De France. (Final, PGa)

A look at the SS Île de France

9.20 Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters: Death From Below. (PGa, R) A team probes the Bermuda Triangle.

10.10 SBS World News Late.

10.40 World On Fire. (Final, Mav)

11.50 Cargo. (Mal, R)

3.30 Peer To Peer. (PGv, R)

4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am WorldWatch. 10.00

Most Expensivest. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30

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

8.30 MOVIE: Under The Tuscan Sun. (2003, Ml, R) A recently divorced woman holidaying in Tuscany buys a villa on a whim and encounters unexpected romance. Diane Lane, Sandra Oh, Lindsay Duncan. 10.50 To Be Advised.

11.50 Criminal Confessions: Not My DNA. (Malv) A school teacher is gunned down in public.

12.50 Boy To Man: The Snake Divers. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

(62)

MOVIE: Point Break. (1991, M) 2.40 Over The Black Dot. 3.30 WorldWatch. 5.25 Underground Worlds. 6.20 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Travel Man’s Greatest Trips. 9.25 Sex Before The Internet. 10.20 Sex Unlimited. 11.15 Ten Year Old Tom. 12.20am Bad Education. 12.55 Monica And Sex. 3.00 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Shopping. 6.30

Best Backyards. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Mighty Ships. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

NBN, 7.30pm

Surely there’s no stronger competitive spirit than that of an Olympian – but will the famously Tipping machine reward their e orts?

In this edition of Todd Woodbridge’s (pictured) game show – the rst of two prime-time specials featuring Australia’s sporting stars –three of our nation’s swimming legends dive head rst into a general knowledge quiz to raise money for their chosen charities. Olympic gold medallist Libby Trickett, Paralympic champion Blake Cochrane and multiple world record holder Emily Seebohm compete against each other to see who can make the biggest splash in the machine and raise the most cash.

(5) NBN (8, 80)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 17. Canterbury Bulldogs v Cronulla Sharks. 9.55 Golden Point. Post-match NRL wrap-up.

10.40 MOVIE: The Little Things. (2021, Malnv) A county deputy sheri becomes embroiled in the search for a serial killer who is terrorising the city. Denzel Washington, Rami Malek.

1.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) Presented by Alexander Armstrong.

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Postcards. (PG, R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

(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! 9.05 O cially Amazing. 9.35 Dragon Ball Super. 9.55 Supernatural Academy. 10.20 The PM’s Daughter. 10.45 Phoenix Rise. 11.40 Good Game Spawn Point. 12.30am Rage. 1.30 TMNT. 2.15 The Legend Of Korra. 2.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Travel Guides. 1.30 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. 5.45 MOVIE: Astro Boy. (2009, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: He’s Just Not That Into You. (2009, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Whip It! (2009, M) 12.15am Love Island USA. 1.15 Ashlee And Evan. 2.15 Full House. 2.45 Transformers: Cyberverse. 3.00 Bakugan: Evolutions. 3.30

9GO! (83) 6am Capricorn One. (1977, PG) 8.15 My Best Friend’s Wedding. (2016, PG, Mandarin) 9.55 Fill The Void. (2012, PG, Hebrew) 11.35 The Program. (2015, M) 1.30pm Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 3.40 Satellite Boy. (2012, PG) 5.20 Steel Magnolias. (1989, PG) 7.30 Whina. (2022, PG, Maori) 9.35 Speed Kills. (2018, M) 11.30 Road House. (1989, MA15+) 1.35am Snowpiercer. (2013, MA15+) 3.55 Mindscape. (2013, M) 5.45 Steel Magnolias. (1989, PG)

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. (Ml, R) Graham Norton is joined on the red couch by Julia Roberts, Timothée Chalamet, Tom Hanks and Cher. 9.40 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a look at the week that was.

10.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather.

11.05 The Project. (R)

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

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

G S O

T I O L Z Today’s target: 6 words average 8 words good 11+ 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)

Auspac Media

Courtesy of the Mercury/Saturn link, you’re keen to follow humanitarian or spiritual pursuits. You’ll seek out the wise counsel of a trusted mentor or play that role yourself to someone who’s looking for firm guidance. You’ll also question your inner motivations, and a soulful examination of your interior life will give you the self-knowledge and confidence to let your unique Aries’ talents shine. Saturday is fabulous for love, lust, friends and flirtations.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

It’s a good week to entertain family, friends and neighbours, as Venus and Mars encourage socialising. Convivial conversation is a bonus. But has an old relationship finally run out of steam? Or is a fair-weather friend criticising your behaviour and holding you back? The planets urge you to review your peer group and discard negative influences. Surround yourself with positive people who encourage your talents and support your dreams.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

This week – courtesy of Mercury (your ruling planet) and Uranus – you’re keen to jump in and act with lightning speed, but other people may need some time to adjust. Smart Twins will aim to get the balance right between Mercury and Saturn; between being spontaneous and thinking things through. On Saturday, Venus and Mars encourage creativity in action, as you connect with your inner muse and sing, dance, write, perform or play music.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Don’t sulk and sit on the sidelines! With the Sun, Mercury and Venus visiting your sign, you’re at your creative, communicative, charismatic Crab best. Mars and Uranus are also activating your networking zone, so it’s the perfect time to promote yourself as you push forward in a proactive and adventurous way. Confidence is the rocket fuel that will take you to exciting new places. The weekend is wonderful for socialising with family and having fun with friends.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22) Are you impatient for adventure, excitement and success? Awesome opportunities are circling around you, but they’re not immediately obvious. They are hidden in unexpected places, waiting for you to discover them. Lions love to spring into action but – at the moment – some of your best work will be done quietly, behind the scenes. Other people may not notice what you’re currently doing, but your efforts will be rewarded in the weeks and months ahead.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22) Professional projects are favoured, as you rub shoulders with influential people. Don’t be a wallflower though. Speak up and promote your talents! If you hesitate, then promising opportunities will pass you by. With Jupiter jumping through your career zone, confidence and an adventurous attitude will take you places. So your motto is from birthday great, deaf-blind author and educator Helen Keller: “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.”

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

If you’re looking for a promotion or a new job, now’s the time to strike as lucky Venus and proactive Mars enhance your career charisma and professional persona. Communicating with work colleagues, clients and customers will also improve, as you initiate contact and impress others with your conscientious, perfectionist approach. The positive Venus/Mars link should also benefit partnerships of the romantic, platonic and business variety.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

It’s a good week to channel energy into educating and expanding your mind. Your communication skills are firing, as you extend your peer group and make creative new connections. With your ruler Pluto in your domestic zone, family comes first as you build firm foundations and foster affection at Casa Scorpio. Singles – with Mars and Uranus in your relationship zone, it’s time to proactively look for love online. So start posting your updated profile pronto.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21) Is it always appropriate to be fearlessly frank? Is honesty always the best policy? Your natural inclination is to be incredibly blunt, but not everyone is ready for your special brand of Sagittarian truth serum. The Sun, Mercury and Venus are in your secrets’ zone, so a dollop of discretion and a pinch of diplomacy will smooth troubled waters. If you’re smart, then you’ll talk a lot less and listen a lot more. It’s time to hold your tongue and uncover a mystery (or two).

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19) Mercury trines Saturn (your patron planet), which boosts drive and ambition. But it’s also likely to fan your control-freak tendencies, which could end up alienating others. Remember – the only person you can control is yourself! So turbocharge your personal evolution, tap into your leadership skills and steer your life in a positive direction. With the Sun, Mercury and Venus in your relationship zone, put the needs of loved ones at the top of your to-do list.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) The Sun, Mercury and Venus are visiting your job zone, so socialising with customers, clients and/or colleagues will help improve workplace relations. If you’re looking for employment, then put the word out amongst family, friends and within your wider peer group. At the moment, it’s not what you know but who you know! The Mercury/ Uranus link (on the weekend) is wonderful for innovative ideas, lively communication and brilliant, lightbulb moments.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Courtesy of taskmaster Saturn (in your sign) hard work, discipline and determination bring benefits. Channel your energy into a personal project or a creative venture. Draw inspiration from singersongwriter Carly Simon (who celebrates her 79th birthday on Tuesday): “There’s always a creative side to me, even when it’s quiet musically. Like painting, decorating or planting a garden.” Plus aim to be more proactive about protecting your local environment.

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

Infected Mushroom are Erez Eizen and Amit Duvdevani (nicknamed Duvdev). An amazing duo who bring a real energy to the dance foor.

In 2012 it is no secret that electronic dance music (EDM) has become identifed as “mainstream” music all over the world.

Children of the pop, rock, hip-hop and metal era’s are left scratching their heads “how did that happen?” The answer is simple, in the late 90’s when other bands were focused on writing with analogue sounds, there were two boys in Israel, Amit “Duvdev” Duvdevani and Erez Eisen experimenting on something different using computer sounds, synths and drum machines.

This is an opportunity to unwind, slow down and gather by the hearth to deeply share in creation and community.

We have planted the seeds and are now ready to invite you for a lovely 2 day crafting workshop and share our passion

Such experimentation not only evolved into forming the band known as “Infected Mushroom,” but one that could claim the title for revolutionizing their own EDM genre called “Psychedelic Trance Music.” Today, Infected Mushroom has been twice ranked as the world’s “10 Best DJ’s” by the Bible of the Scene (U.K.’s DJ Magazine), the now L.A. based duo have established their self-invented genre among the highest in the scene.

One could easily scour pages of the Internet in vain to fnd the epic level of music history defning the Infected Mushroom “kingdom.”

Highlights include: 1999 breakthrough debut album, The Gathering,

for intentional earth craft creating from the heart, through the hands with earth as our ally and medium.

Join us for a hands on intro into the art of botanical dying and weaving over 2 days embraced in the beauty

then fast-forward to 2007–Infected Mushroom’s release of their highest-grossing album Vicious Delicious.

Leading onward with high anticipation of their 2009 release, The Legend of the Black Shawrama. The album to include Billboard-chart topping smash hit–Smashing the Opponent (featuring guest vocals by legendary Korn lead singer, Jonathan Davis). The explosion of success with Legend of the Black Shawrma, lead to a 3-year tour aligned with inspiration to release their most multi-faceted album to date–Army of Mushrooms. Released in May 2012 on Dim Mak Records, this hit album precisely delivers what Infected Mushroom

of nature and sanctuary in a hidden oasis in the Northern Rivers hinterland. We shall journey together over many cups of tea and nourishing shared meals to tend to the bubbling pots, gather and prepare material,

does best: invents, experiments, fips-up, bends-over, twistssideways, always keepin’ it real to their EDM roots with added spicy, trippy and psychedelic favors. If that’s not impressive enough—there’s the band’s average 120 live performances a year including, repeat, sold-out shows from the Ultra Fest in Miami to the Virgin Festival in Baltimore, from Mexico’s OMIX to Cali’s Coachella, to Brazil’s Ipanema Beach, and from Melbourne’s Metro Club to the 2009 and 2011 Burningman Festival in Black Rock City, Nevada.

Not to mention collaborations with big Rock legends; Ray Manzarek (The Doors), Perry Farrell (Jane’s

sit in song and silence (and no doubt story and cackling moments) and take home not only our crafted projects but a sense of nourishment, accomplishment, new skills and friendships. Hours are 10am - 6pm daily.

Nominated for an Academy Award for Best International Film, THE TEACHERS’ LOUNGE is a scintillating drama about the power dynamics in a school system where every decision feels like a mistake.

Carla Nowak (Leonie Benesch) is a dedicated, idealistic young teacher in her frst job at a German school. Her relationship with her seventh-grade students

addiction) and then their insane amount (roughly 14,000,000) hits on You Tube simply cannot go without mention . . . Amongst living off the road, Amit and Duvdev sustain inspiration in between shows getting back to the studio working on new material (solo tracks) and another album.

They give props up to Skype and Facetime for keeping their families together. The Unveiling tour will be marked with an even bigger psychedelic visual display of insane, mind-bending journey taking “IM” devotees on a trip–through lush mushroom landscapes, Aztec pyramids, underwater world’s and out into the great cosmos . . . Adoring fans

Please note the ticket is for 2 days and accomodation is available nearby but not included.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 6 July 2024 10:00 AMSunday 7 July 2024 6:00 PM (UTC+10)

is put under stress when a series of thefts occur, and a staff investigation leads to accusations and mistrust among outraged parents, opinionated colleagues, and angry students. Caught in the middle of these complex dynamics, Carla tries to mediate—but the more she tries to do everything right, the closer she gets to breaking point.

EVENT DETAILS:

• Where: Star Court

continue congregating all over the world under Infected Mushroom’s stage for one reason: to drop their jaws and lose their mind over experiencing the world’s greatest Psy-Trance band of the decade.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Sunday 30th of June at 8pm

• Where: Beach Hotel, Byron Bay

• Price: from $60.15

• Tickets: Via the QR code

• Where: Harmony Homestead Sanctuary, Clunes

• Price: $440.00

• Tickets: Via the QR code.

Theatre, Lismore

• When: Sun 30 June 2024 and Wed 3 July 2024

• Start time: Sun 2.30pm & 5.30pm Wed 3.30pm & 6.30pm

• Price: $15/$13

• Tickets: Via the QR code.

National Farmers’ Federation champions Australian trade and sustainability in Europe

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) of Australia, represented by President David Jochinke, CEO Tony Mahar, and Special Representative for Australian Agriculture (SRAA) Su McCluskey, is actively promoting Australia’s trade and sustainability credentials in Europe. Their mission emphasizes the Australian Agriculture Sustainability Framework (AASF), an industry-led initiative that demonstrates Australia’s dedication to sustainable agriculture.

The delegation’s journey began in the Netherlands, recognized for its advanced agricultural technology and status as the third-largest exporter of agricultural products. This initial visit included strategic

meetings with the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, interactions at the World Horticultural Centre and the Greentech Conference, discussions with Wageningen University representatives, farm tours, and engagements with the Dutch Farmers Association.

“This engagement underscores Australia’s commitment to sustainable agriculture on the global stage, as well as the pivotal role of collaborative initiatives like the AASF in ensuring both industry and government are positioned as leaders in this space,” Mr. Jochinke stated.

Following their Dutch engagements, the delegation proceeded to Rome for high-level discussions with the Food and Agriculture

Organization representatives and an evening event highlighting the AASF at the Australian Ambassador’s residence. This visit is aligned with the activities of the World Farmers’ Organization General Assembly, where the NFF aims to ensure Australian farmers have a signifcant voice in shaping international agricultural policies.

“Engagement with government offcials and industry stakeholders has centered around common challenges such as environmental regulations, farm productivity, water management, and trade,” Mr. Jochinke remarked. He emphasized the importance of understanding EU approaches to deforestation, animal

welfare, and chemical use in agriculture, and how these issues are managed within Australia’s unique landscapes.

As the frst SRAA, Ms. McCluskey’s role is crucial in enhancing Australia’s infuence in agricultural institutions, which is vital for securing export market access for Australian farmers. The NFF values its collaboration with the SRAA, recognizing it as essential for sustained bilateral engagement and advocacy in global forums.

“This collaborative effort underscores the shared commitment by industry and government to present a ‘team Australia’ approach on the world stage,” Mr. Jochinke concluded.

Australia to Chair World Wine Trade Group

Australia has assumed the role of Chair of the World Wine Trade Group (WWTG), a coalition of government and industry representatives dedicated to simplifying international wine trade. The WWTG promotes wine trade through information sharing, discussions on regulatory issues, and coordinated efforts to eliminate trade barriers.

Matt Lowe, Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy, announced that Australia’s chairmanship began on June 1, 2024. “Our time as Chair of the WWTG will give us the stage to advance the group’s trade priorities, strengthen collaboration with other members, and highlight the people, places and stories that make Australian wine unique,” Mr. Lowe said.

The WWTG has played a signifcant role in facilitating international trade for Australian wine, allowing exporters better access to member markets without the challenges posed by regulatory differences. As Chair, Australia aims to continue pursuing benefcial outcomes for

its wine producers.

The chairing responsibilities are shared between the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and the industry body Australian Grape & Wine, with support from Wine Australia and the Australian Wine Research Institute. This partnership enhances engagement and aims to achieve better outcomes for the sector.

“Opening up more trade opportunities for our wine producers will contribute to overcoming the current oversupply of wine in Australia and support industry growth towards a $100 billion agriculture, fsheries, and forestry industry by 2030,” Mr. Lowe added.

Australia will host international delegations for the WWTG Annual Meeting in Adelaide this October.

For more information, visit wwtg.gov.

WWTG Members:

• Australia

• Argentina

• Canada • Chile • Georgia

• New Zealand

• South Africa

• United States of America

• Uruguay

Favourable Winter Supports Agricultural Industry Growth

Production in Australia’s agriculture, fsheries, and forestry sectors is poised to reach the third highest level on record for 2024-25, buoyed by an improved seasonal outlook.

The gross value of these sectors is projected to increase by 2%, rising from $87.6 billion in 2023-24 to $89.5 billion in 2024-25.

Executive Director of ABARES, Dr. Jared Greenville, stated that this quarter’s Agricultural

Commodities and Australian Crop Report indicate a positive shift in agriculture following the drier conditions experienced in 2023-24.

“Some cropping regions are currently experiencing dry conditions, but an anticipated improvement in seasonal conditions over winter, combined with better livestock prices and production, will place Australian agriculture in a favourable position,” Dr. Greenville said.

“Strong global demand for Australian livestock products will support an improvement in prices and production, with the gross value of Australian livestock production and livestock products forecast to increase by 3% to $35.5 billion in 2024-25.

“For crops, despite lower prices due to higher global production, the value of crop production is expected to grow by 2% to $48.1 billion in 2024-25, driven by higher

production levels.

“We are also seeing continued growth in Australia’s horticulture sector, which is expected to reach a record high of $17.4 billion, led by increases in fruit and nut production.

“The Australian Crop Report shows a strong response from growers to changing market and seasonal conditions.

“The area dedicated to chickpeas is growing by 79% in response to recent Indian tariff

reductions and a good start to the season in NSW and Queensland. Lentil plantings have also reached a record 885,000 hectares.

“A lower exportable supply of grains and oilseeds in 2024-25 will result in a 4% decline in the value of agriculture, fsheries, and forestry exports, bringing the total to $73.1 billion.

“Despite the decrease in export value, this fgure will still be the third highest on record.

“At the farm level, improving seasonal conditions and higher livestock prices are expected to see average broadacre farm cash incomes increase by $45,000 to $149,000 in 2024-25.

“The forecasts demonstrate Australian agriculture’s resilience and ability to adapt to seasonal conditions and respond to new market opportunities,” Dr. Greenville concluded.

By Helen Trustum

Water

hyacinth was a menace on the Richmond River including Sandy Creek. The frst appearance of water hyacinth in Sandy Creek was in 1911. Nothing was done and before they knew it both Sandy Creek and Bungawalbyn were covered. A water hyacinth eradication board was formed, coordinated by Richmond River County Council.

Sandy Creek emerges about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) north of the village of Busbys Flat. The creek fows generally east, crossing the Summerland Way at Coombell, then fows down through Yorklea, Tatham, Bora Ridge into Bungawalbyn Creek, before reaching

the Richmond River at Bungawalbyn, south of Coraki.

In 1889 Messrs. McLean and Nicol explored the coal seams at Moonembar.

A tunnel was opened at Moonembar, when the Richmond Hill Coal Mining Company was formed in 1891. A ferry was operating over Sandy Creek in 1889. Reported in the Richmond River Herald 9/9/1889 it mentions the splendid crop of maize grown by Mr Thomas Birmingham on what was formerly swamp ground but due to draining, the ground was much easier to cultivate and would withstand much more wet weather than the riverbank. Special notice was brought to the attention on the fat close to Sandy Creek punt

where there was always knee deep water there for months. These great results all were attributed to the drains sunk by Mr Yabsley.

In the Richmond River Herald 7/6/1907 some discussion was held regarding the location of the Sandy Creek Bridge and the state of the roads leading to it as well as the continued use of Sandy Creek Ferry.

A wooden bridge was built over Sandy Creek. It was there as reported in the Government Gazette 8/5/1907. Due to the food in 1931 the earth embankment in connection with Sandy Creek food gate, was washed away in the February food. Mr Murray Yabsley and Mr Arthur Pursey gave their services free to renew the embankment. When fnished it held back over

eleven feet of water in time of a big food. A new foodgate was built. There are two main Sandy Creek crossings, one there at the junction of Bungawalbyn Creek and the other 16km up at Coombell. Both Sandy Creek bridges were built by Kennedy Brothers from Lismore. The bridge close to Bungawalbyn was built in 1960 closely followed by the other one.

Not a lot is known of the Sandy Creek Ferry, but we do know it existed back in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.

Ref: Terry Murphy from Bora Ridge, Mervyn Parrish and Headly Ellis from West Coraki, Ray Pignat from Coraki, Noel Thompson from Coraki, Richmond River Herald.

Sandy Creek Ferry at the Junction of Sandy Creek and Bungawalbyn Creek

Sandy Creek Bridge across Sandy Creek on the Summerland Way at Coombell

Sandy Creek Bridge at Tatham

Sandy Creek Bridge on Bora Ridge Road

Map of Sandy Creek and Bungawalbyn Creek

Raising awareness for drought resilience projects

Australia knows how devastating droughts can be for its agriculture sector.

That is why more than 30,000 Aussies farmers have taken up opportunities to build their capability to manage farm-risk, including to drought and climate change, through the Future Drought Fund (FDF).

Today is the United Nations’ World Day to Combat Desertifcation and Drought, an important day to raise awareness of Australia’s ongoing efforts to prepare regional and rural communities for the next drought.

The Australian Government’s 2024-25 Budget committed $519.1 million from the FDF to boost drought readiness.

Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy Matt Lowe said the FDF funding will

To read more about to read about Cath and Fred’s work, visit here

continue to build knowledge, skills and capability in the sector. It will also focus on partnering with regions and communities, including frst nations people, for local solutions to drought risks.

“We have so many excellent FDF projects on the ground that are testing or demonstrating how to build drought resilience in practical ways,” Mr Lowe said.

“In addition, $63.8 million has been committed to help transition Australia’s agriculture sector towards a net-zero future and help farmers capitalise on emerging opportunities and remain proftable amid a changing climate.

“Funding will focus on accelerating the reduction of agricultural emissions, improving greenhouse gas accounting and investing in the new

To read more about to read about Brenton Kroehn and Prof Matt Denton’s work, visit

Zero Net Emissions

Agriculture Cooperative Research Centre.

“Amid dramatic climate changes around the world, drought remains a fxture of Australian life.”

Cath and Fred Clark of Roma, Queensland, run one of 24 grazing businesses across southern Queensland and northern NSW that have been learning drought-resilient practices through the FDF’s Drought Resilient Soils and Landscapes Program.

This has enabled their fourth-generation cattle property to better match their stocking rate to carrying capacity.

Meanwhile, the same program in South Australia is enabling merino farmer, Brenton Kroehn and Adelaide University’s Professor Matt Denton to test pasture legume varieties in drier environments.

This aims to help

For more information on drought hubs around the country, visit

Brenton identify reliable pasture options that can sustain farming in dry sandhill country of his Waikerie property.

“There are dozens of similar projects happening around the country, yet drought preparedness doesn’t stop at the border,” Mr Lowe said.

“Last year, Australia joined the International Drought Resilience Alliance (IDRA) – a network of countries that together build drought preparedness and promote global action on drought.”

Launched at the 2022 Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP27), the IDRA mobilises political, technical, and fnancial capital for drought resilience across its 39 member countries.

For more information on the International Drought Resilience Alliance (IDRA), visit

Funding a Safer Agvet Chemical Future

The Australian Government has allocated $2 million to enhance farmers’ access to priority agricultural and veterinary (agvet) chemicals, facilitating safe and effective pest and disease management.

Matt Lowe, Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy, announced the successful applications for the ninth round of agvet chemical assistance grants. These grants address industryidentifed priorities.

“Effective agvet chemicals have provided long-term benefts to Australian agriculture by mitigating the damage caused by weeds, pests, and diseases on agricultural and forest production,” said Mr. Lowe. “This has led to increased productivity, higher quality produce, more competitive industries, and improved environmental outcomes. These grants are a key contributor to this success.”

The ninth grant round will tackle current priority issues across various plant and animal commodities, including pigs, fnfsh, tea tree, and wildfowers. It will also focus on chemical solutions for managing

pests and diseases such as Japanese encephalitis virus and sclerotinia rot.

“Ensuring that Australian farmers continue to beneft from improved access to safe, effective agvet chemicals that offer fexibility in on-farm pest and disease management is crucial,” Mr. Lowe added. “This provides peace of mind for both industry and consumers.”

To date, the grants program has awarded 238 grants totaling $17.86 million, resulting in 45 new permit uses and 21 new label uses for agvet chemicals. This program is part of the Australian Government’s 11-year, $26 million investment to improve access to safe and effective agvet chemicals.

For more information on the Assistance Grants – Access to Industry Priority Uses of Agvet Chemicals program 2023-24 (Round 9), scan the QR Code for more information

Statement on Australia’s National Energy Plan

Acting CEO Charlie Thomas responds to the Coalition’s announcement on nuclear energy and Australia’s energy future.

Australian farmers and regional communities emphasize that the debate on Australia’s energy mix must prioritize the people and land it affects.

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) maintains that Australia’s national energy policies should provide affordable, reliable, and increasingly

lower-emission energy for all Australians. These policies must be technology-neutral and market-driven, ensuring that all energy options, including solar, wind, and nuclear, are considered.

The NFF supports the economy-wide target of net zero emissions by 2050, recognizing that low-emission energy

is crucial to achieving this goal. However, agriculture must not be sacrifced on the path to net zero. We will hold the current and future governments to their commitment not to impose direct targets on farmers.

A credible climate plan must closely partner with farmers, ensuring early and meaningful

engagement with impacted communities.

As renewable energy projects expand across rural landscapes, it is vital that landholders and regional communities are respected, and their concerns addressed.

Future energy proposals must improve community engagement, allowing communities the right to refuse

projects, protecting farmland, and ensuring landholders are properly consulted. Today’s announcement by the Coalition should prompt the current government to focus on providing meaningful protections for farmland and affected communities.

Additionally, there needs to be a clearer focus on ensuring

local communities beneft from energy investments. National energy policy and emissions reduction must be a shared responsibility. Agriculture will contribute, but this contribution must be fair and not compromise productivity, proftability, or food security.

“All is not well on the farm”- Rural Aid CEO

Australia’s most trusted rural charity has been urgently assisting farmers who are battling increased levels of mental ill-health in recent months.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said primary producers are feeling overworked, underappreciated and anxious.

“In a recent Rural Aid study, one in two farmers said they’ve felt their mental health decline

in the past year,” Mr Warlters said.

“76 per cent of our farmers rated their mental health as poor, very poor or average.”

“These numbers show that all is not well on the farm,” Mr Warlters said.

“It’s a sentiment echoed across the industry;

Rabobank’s Rural Confdence Survey has shown farm confdence has plummeted in the past three months.”

Rural Aid’s Mental

Health and Wellbeing Manager, Myf Pitcher, said weather conditions, biosecurity concerns, and disaster recovery are on farmers’ minds.

“Our counselling team is making a really important difference every day, we’ve been all over the country supporting primary producers,” Ms Pitcher said.

“From hay drops in South Australia, to water tank deliveries

in Western Australia, and resilience and recovery conversations in Queensland, our mental health and wellbeing team have been working overtime to assist farmers with the challenges they’re currently facing.”

Mr Warlters said the record dry conditions in the south and west of the nation are proving especially diffcult for farmers to deal with.

“Rural Aid has

organised and executed a support drop of hay, stockfeed or emergency household drinking water at the rate of roughly one per day over the last four weeks. The demand for hay in South Australia has been particularly strong.”

“But, Rural Aid can’t do any of its vital work without the generosity of the Australian public,” Mr Warlters added.

“With tax time just around the corner, it’s a

good time to consider a donation to Rural Aid.”

“Thank you to every single person who has dug deep for our mates in the bush in their moment of need,” Mr Warlters said.

To donate to Rural Aid, or to fnd out more about Rural Aid’s mental health and wellbeing program, visit www.ruralaid.org. au or call 1300 327 624.

Positive sign but permanent fx required in sugar dispute

CANEGROWERS has welcomed a temporary suspension of strike action by Wilmar mill workers that has allowed crushing to begin at three Burdekin sugar mills.

However, with the company responsible for crushing around 50% of Queensland’s sugarcane, the ongoing dispute could derail the 2024 harvest season unless a permanent agreement is reached, CANEGROWERS

Chairman Owen Menkens said.

“Obviously we’re extremely glad to see crushing get underway at these three mills, but it’s worth noting that this is only a postponement of strike action. If the parties fail to reach an agreement, we may well see crushing grind to a halt again,” Mr Menkens said.

CANEGROWERS has been working directly with the districts

involved to ensure grower concerns are heard and addressed.

“We have written to and been in direct communication with Wilmar and the unions and we are analysing the potential economic cost to growers should the dispute cause further signifcant delays that would lengthen the crushing season,” Mr Menkens said.

“We have made it clear that we support the right of workers

to be represented by their unions in negotiations, and also that the industry needs a commercially viable milling sector.

But both sides need to always consider the livelihoods of others in the community and the industry who are not party to their dispute.

“Unfortunately, if this situation is not resolved, thousands of growers will be affected. And not just growers, there will be a fow-on effect to the

entire industry and the regional communities it supports.

“Tens of thousands of ordinary people who have no part in this dispute and no power to end it, will nevertheless have to deal with the consequences.

“The later the crush goes, the more likely it is to run into the wet season, which makes harvesting diffcult and lowers the sugar content of the cane so much that it becomes

uneconomical to crush.

“And it’s not only this season that will be impacted. Growers will have a shorter window to plant next year’s crop, and late harvested ratooning cane will have less time to grow, resulting in a smaller crop next year.

“The impact could be long-term and highly damaging for the industry, so we need this dispute resolved now.”

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- 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.

Would American Truck Campers be a Perfect Fit for Australia?

Truck campers have long been a popular choice for adventurers seeking the perfect blend of mobility and comfort. In the United States, these versatile vehicles have carved out a signifcant niche in the camping and RV market. However, as their popularity grows, many Australians are beginning to wonder if these American truck campers would be a good ft Down Under. With a huge market for travelling and vehicle modifcations, it might be an answer to what a lot of people are after.

What Are Truck Campers?

Truck campers are a type of recreational vehicle (RV) that can be loaded onto the bed of a pickup truck. They offer a compact and self-contained living space, including sleeping quarters, a kitchen, and often a small bathroom. This design allows for greater fexibility compared to traditional caravans or motorhomes, as the camper can be detached when not in use, leaving the truck free for other purposes and by not having to tow a massive load.

Key Features of American Truck Campers

1. Compact Size and Versatility: American truck campers are known

for their compact yet effcient design. They are ideal for travellers who prefer to navigate narrow roads and remote areas that might be challenging for larger RVs.

2. Off-Road Capability: Many American truck campers are built with off-road capabilities in mind. They are often paired with heavy-duty trucks that can handle rough terrains, making them suitable for Australia’s diverse environments.

3. Luxury and Comfort: Despite their compact size, these campers are equipped with modern amenities. Features such as full kitchens, bathrooms, air conditioning, and solar panels for off-grid camping make them a comfortable option for extended trips.

4. Durability: American truck campers are designed to withstand a variety of weather conditions, which is essential for Australia’s unpredictable climate. Their robust construction ensures they can handle the sun, rain, and even snow in the high country. Suitability for Australia

1. Terrain and Environment: Australia’s varied landscape poses a challenge for many types of RVs. However, the

off-road capabilities and rugged design of American truck campers make them well-suited for these conditions. Their ability to easily navigate rough terrain and remote areas is a signifcant advantage for those seeking to explore Australia’s more secluded spots without having a massive vehicle.

2. Accessibility and Convenience: The compact size of truck campers makes them ideal for accessing areas that larger caravans and motorhomes cannot. This includes narrow coastal roads, national parks with size restrictions, and urban areas where parking can be a challenge. For those who enjoy spontaneous travel and off-the-beatenpath adventures, this fexibility is invaluable.

3. Self-Suffciency: One of the primary appeals of truck campers is their self-contained nature. With built-in kitchens, bathrooms, and power sources, travellers can be self-suffcient for extended periods. This is particularly useful in Australia, where remote camping is a popular choice, and amenities can be scarce.

4. Cost Considerations: While the initial cost of a truck camper and a suitable truck may

be higher than some other RV options, the long-term benefts can outweigh this. The ability to detach the camper and use the truck independently offers greater utility and can save on the cost of maintaining two separate vehicles.

Potential for Local Manufacturing in Australia

Whilst there is some manufacturers making truck campers (or called slide on campers in Australia), there isn’t a whole lot of options out there.

1. Adapting to Local Conditions: Manufacturing truck campers in Australia offers the opportunity to tailor designs specifcally to local conditions. This includes considering the unique demands of the Australian outback, coastal environments, and tropical regions. Local manufacturers can incorporate materials and construction techniques best suited to withstand the harsh Australian climate.

2. Supporting the Local Economy: Establishing a truck camper manufacturing industry in Australia would provide economic benefts, including job creation and support for local businesses. By sourcing materials and

components locally, manufacturers can reduce reliance on imports and contribute to the growth of the domestic economy.

3. Customization and Innovation: Local manufacturing would allow for greater customization options, catering to the specifc needs and preferences of Australian consumers. This could include integrating advanced off-road capabilities, enhanced solar power systems, and innovative storage solutions.

Australian manufacturers could lead the way in developing cutting-edge features that set their products apart in the global market.

4. Compliance and Standards: Producing truck campers locally ensures that all units meet Australian safety and regulatory standards from the outset. This eliminates the complexities associated with importing vehicles and retroftting them to comply with local requirements. Manufacturers can focus on building campers that are fully compliant and ready for the Australian market.

5. After-Sales Support and Service: Local manufacturing enhances the availability of aftersales support and service.

Customers can beneft from readily accessible maintenance and repair services, as well as a reliable supply of replacement parts. This improves the overall ownership experience and ensures that any issues can be quickly and effciently addressed.

The Verdict American truck campers offer a unique blend of versatility, comfort, and rugged capability that make them an appealing choice for Australian adventurers. Their compact size, off-road performance, and self-suffcient design align well with the needs of those exploring Australia’s diverse landscapes. The potential for manufacturing these campers locally presents numerous advantages. With the right investments and innovations, Australia could develop a thriving truck camper manufacturing industry that meets the demands of its adventurous population. By embracing this opportunity, Australians can enjoy the best of both worlds – the freedom and fexibility of truck campers, tailored to the unique beauty and challenges of their own backyard.

WHAT DOES THE CURRENT FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SOLAR DISCOUNT MEAN FOR YOU?

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

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

• The climate region where it’s installed. Under the package, the federal government will pay around $350 per kilowatt towards cost of a solar system.

This amount reduces at the end of the calendar year (every year up until 2030 when the program is nished) so the right time to invest in solar is now

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LET’S BREAK IT DOWN

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$1,850 per year enabling them to pay back their investment in 2.98 years!

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

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

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8.8KW SOLAR SYSTEM

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• Less federal government discount of $3230

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

10.56KW SOLAR SYSTEM

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

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

• Cost $13,367

• Less federal government discount of $3875

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

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

Australians Overwhelmingly Support Crackdown on Chinese Real Estate Investment Amid Housing Affordability Concerns

By Ian Rogers

A new survey reveals that Australians strongly support limiting Chinese investment in the country’s real estate market due to growing concerns over housing affordability. According to a poll published by the University of Technology

Sydney’s AustraliaChina Relations Institute (UTS ), 83% of Australians believe the government should restrict the amount of investment in residential real estate by Chinese investors. This marks the highest level of support for such restrictions in the four years the survey has been conducted.

Survey Highlights:

• Public Opinion on Investment: The survey of 2015 Australian

adults covered various topics including national security, tourism, trade, and investment. Only 28% agreed that Chinese investment in residential real estate brings signifcant benefts, such as housing construction, new dwellings, and jobs. This agreement has steadily decreased over the past four years.

• Housing Price Impact: A clear majority, 80%, believe that foreign buyers from China drive up Australian housing prices, up from 73% in 2023 and nearly back to the 82% high recorded in 2021.

• Rental Market Concerns: 74% said Chinese investors negatively affect the rental market for residential real estate, marking a four-year high

and a six-point increase from 68% in 2023.

• Economic Dependence: Nearly three-quarters of respondents feel Australia is too economically reliant on China, and just over half see Chinese foreign investment as more detrimental than benefcial.

David Ho, co-founder and group managing director of Asian property portal Juwai IQI, acknowledged the fndings, noting that Australians are stressed by the tight property market and view foreign buyers as part of the problem. Ho pointed out that foreign buyers are already heavily taxed, regulated, and restricted, and highlighted the complexity of the real solutions, such as

limiting population growth, reducing zoning restrictions, expanding transit networks, and lowering construction costs.

Impact of Chinese Investors:

•Foreign Buyer

Restrictions: The federal government has long restricted foreign buyers to new properties only, imposing additional stamp duties and land taxes. Despite these measures, Chinese investors remain the largest foreign buyers of Australian homes, with $700 million worth of investment proposals approved between July and September 2023.

•Developer Dependency: Studies indicate that foreign buyers are crucial for developers, enabling the construction of new dwellings by

providing early sales necessary for starting projects. Removing foreign buyers could lead to higher prices and rents.

•Distressed Sales: The economic downturn in China and rising interest rates have led to a rise in distressed Chinese sellers looking to offoad properties in Australia.

The debate around foreign investment in Australian real estate has intensifed, with parallels drawn to Canada’s recent two-year ban on foreigners buying residential property.

Australian regulations allow non-citizens and non-permanent residents to purchase new homes, theoretically boosting housing construction.

Prime Minister’s Statement:

During a meeting with

China’s Premier Li Qiang, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized that Australia and China will “co-operate where we can and disagree where we must.” Premier Li expressed that ChinaAustralia relations are “back on track” and emphasized the importance of seeking common ground while managing differences.

The survey results underscore a signifcant public sentiment against Chinese real estate investment in Australia, driven by concerns over housing affordability and economic dependence. As the government navigates these issues, balancing foreign investment with domestic housing needs remains a critical challenge.

Fiscally Responsible Budget, but at What Cost to NSW Residents?

New South Wales

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey has delivered a fiscally responsible budget aimed at balancing the books, but it may come at a significant cost to NSW residents. The budget provides modest cost-of-living support and introduces measures that could negatively impact the rental market and investment climate.

Key Concerns:

• Land Tax Threshold Freeze: One of the most contentious measures is the decision to freeze the land tax threshold, which could lead to increased rental costs and reduced investment in the property market. CPA Australia spokesperson Gavan Ord highlighted the potential repercussions, stating, “Freezing the land tax threshold will likely lead to property owners passing on the

extra costs to renters, exacerbating the rental crisis. It could also deter investment, as property owners may sell off investments, further reducing rental supply.”

• Impact on Investment: The move might make NSW less attractive to investors.

“We’ve seen clients discouraged from investing in Victoria following its property and payroll tax changes last year. NSW may now face similar investor reluctance,” said Mr. Ord. This could have long-term implications for the state’s economic growth and competitiveness.

• Limited Support for Small Businesses: The budget lacks significant measures to support small businesses, which are struggling with rising costs and regulatory burdens. “It’s disappointing that this

year’s budget did not include substantial relief for small businesses. A more business-centric budget would benefit everyone in NSW,” Mr. Ord expressed.

Balanced Budget, but at What Cost?

The budget seeks to balance fiscal prudence with the need to generate revenue without overly burdening residents.

However, the potential knock-on effects of the land tax threshold freeze raise concerns about its broader impact on the economy.

Positive Measures:

• Consultation on Performance and Wellbeing Framework: One positive development is the government’s move to consult on a performance and wellbeing framework. “If implemented effectively, this

framework could lead to better policy decisions that enhance the business environment,” noted Mr. Ord.

Conclusion:

While balancing the books is essential,

CPA Australia warns that the NSW budget’s measures, particularly the land tax threshold freeze, may have unintended negative consequences. The modest cost-of-living relief provided may not be sufficient to offset the potential rise in rental costs and deterred investments.

CPA Australia urges the NSW government to consider the broader economic implications of its budget decisions and to implement more robust support for small businesses to foster a healthier and more resilient economy.

By Ian Rogers

Today’s NSW Budget offers significant measures to address supply barriers in the new home building sector, according to Master Builders Association of NSW Executive Director Brian Seidler.

Housing

“Treasurer Daniel Mookhey has appropriately placed housing at the heart of the budget, acknowledging that building the necessary homes and infrastructure is essential to tackling broader economic and cost-of-living challenges,” said Mr. Seidler.

Key Housing Initiatives:

• Speeding Up Development Approvals: Measures to expedite development approvals will reduce build costs and address delays in planning, which have historically extended build times.

Builders Respond to NSW Budget

• Investment in Social and Affordable Housing: A record investment in social and affordable housing aims to address the critical undersupply for vulnerable populations.

• Release of Government Land: The release of government land for both government and private home building is a longadvocated measure by Master Builders.

• Build-to-Rent Projects: These projects are welcomed as they diversify the NSW housing market and make rental accommodation more affordable.

• Higher Density Construction: With construction times

increasing from an average of 22 months to over 30 months over the last decade, accelerating build times is crucial. The focus will be on overcoming labour shortages, low productivity, and delays in other approvals such as occupation certificates.

Business Support

“Building and construction businesses have faced rising operating costs and increased project risks for several years, with many struggling to stay afloat. Over 98% of the industry is comprised of small businesses, which

are currently facing significant challenges,” said Mr. Seidler. He emphasized that a strong building and construction industry is vital for the economy, noting that every dollar invested in the industry returns three dollars to the economy.

Skills and Training

“Workforce shortages are a significant barrier to the building and construction industry, which loses 8% of its workforce annually, replacing only about half of those lost. Growing our domestic workforce is crucial,” stated Mr. Seidler.

Key Skills and

Training Measures:

• Fee-Free Training:

The budget includes additional places for feefree training, particularly targeting construction apprenticeships.

• Industry-Led

Training Organisations:

There is a call for better support for vocational education and training providers outside of TAFE, emphasizing the role of industry-led registered training organisations and group training organisations in delivering this training.

Infrastructure

The Master Builders Association welcomes additional investments in

transport and education projects, including upgrades to roads around the new Western Sydney airport. “As we build more homes, it’s crucial to have supporting infrastructure like roads, hospitals, and schools to support growing communities,” Mr. Seidler said.

Building Commission

“We welcome additional funding for the NSW Building Commission to enforce regulations and eliminate bad building practices,” said Mr. Seidler. The Master Builders Association has long supported an industry-specific building commission to ensure high standards in construction projects, meeting community expectations.

In summary, today’s NSW Budget introduces several positive measures that aim to enhance the building and construction industry’s ability to meet housing targets, support small businesses, address skills shortages, and ensure robust infrastructure development.

Two-in-five Australians set to shop the End of Financial Year sales

By Ian Rogers

New research from PayPal reveals that twoin-five (38%) Australians plan to shop during the End of Financial Year (EOFY) sales, but not predominantly for traditional tax-deductible work expenses. Instead, a significant portion of shoppers will be focusing on personal items such as clothing or fashion (51%), electronics (31%), homewares and garden items (26%), and health and beauty products (12%).

The current economic climate is a major factor influencing this broader bargain-hunting behaviour. More than half (52%) of Australians believe that online sales can help them manage cost-of-living pressures. Reflecting this sentiment, two-in-five (42%) will shop the EOFY sales online rather

than in-store, driven by the convenience of price comparisons and the perception of better deals online.

“As the cost-of-living crisis continues, it’s clear that Australians are eager to save money whenever and wherever they can, looking to online sales events to help reduce spending,” said PayPal Consumer Shopping Expert Bonnie Brady. She advises that while sales can be an excellent opportunity to save on necessary items, planning purchases and setting budgets are crucial to avoid impulse buying and overspending. However, the shift towards online shopping comes with increased security concerns. A substantial majority of Australians (93%) are worried about online security, with scams becoming more

sophisticated and harder to recognize. This concern has grown over the past year, with twoin-five (40%) Australians more worried about online security than before.

Despite these concerns, there is a strong awareness of online security measures among Australians. About 84% feel confident in their understanding of how to protect themselves against scams, and 99%

are familiar with key online safety techniques such as using complex passwords (87%), diversifying passwords (76%), and avoiding links in text messages (76%). Additionally, four-in-five (84%) prefer to use secure payment options like PayPal when shopping online.

Unfortunately, heightened vigilance against scams has led to some disruptions in legitimate activities.

For example, 87% of Australians avoid phone calls from unknown numbers due to scam fears, and 15% have missed a genuine payment assuming it was fraudulent.

Bonnie Brady emphasizes the importance of staying informed about online safety: “The convenience of online shopping has never been more popular, but we must all do the work to learn how to stay safe online, and to keep that understanding up as new threats emerge. The protective steps that each of us can take are simple and often free, but no one can take them for us.”

To help consumers shop safely and smartly during the EOFY sales, PayPal offers the following tips:

1. Plan purchases: Make a list and budget before shopping to avoid

impulse buys.

2. Scrutinise suspicious sites: Look out for fake retail sites by checking for anomalies and verifying URLs.

3. Check reviews: Look up online reviews to avoid fraudulent sellers.

4. Understand return options: Ensure the retailer has a reasonable return policy.

5. Compare prices in real time: Use tools like PayPal Honey to find the best deals and apply discount codes automatically.

6. Keep financial details safe: Use secure payment methods like PayPal to protect your information.

These strategies can help Australians make the most of the EOFY sales while staying safe and within budget.

Beyond Blue champions peer support for men’s mental health

Beyond Blue is encouraging men to check-in with peers online for early mental health support as part of Men’s Health Week.

The annual week’s theme for 2024 is ‘men’s health checks’, with a focus on encouraging men to adopt new, healthier habits to improve physical and mental wellbeing.

Beyond Blue Clinical Spokesperson Dr Luke Martin said men are less likely than women to seek support for mental health issues and there remains a stigma which can stop them seeking support.

“Many men like to be self-reliant and often try to handle problems on their own and can be reluctant to confde in friends and family about how they are feeling,” Dr Martin said.

“Unfortunately, this can lead to unhealthy coping behaviours, which can result in problems snowballing. Taking steps to get support early on can really help people feel better sooner and anonymous online forums can provide that safe and less confronting option that some men need to open up.”

Research reports the effectiveness of digital peer support models, which provide people with a safe and supportive environment to discuss their issues.

In the digital age, online forums, like Beyond Blue’s Forums are a valuable platform, providing people with a free, accessible, anonymous, welcoming place to discuss their mental wellbeing with those who understand because they have had

or are having similar experiences.

Beyond Blue Forums are moderated by trained professionals, together with experienced volunteers known as Community Champions, who ensure the Beyond Blue Forums remain a safe and supportive place, and that everyone who posts a question is heard and responded to.

Now in his mid-70s, Community Champion Mark Davis volunteers approximately 20 hours a week to support others through the Forums.

“In Australia, we’ve been brought up in a culture where men don’t complain, they have traditionally needed to be the strong, stoic ones; and they just want to fx the problems,” Mr Davis said.

“The forums offer anonymity and

discretion, allowing men in particular to express themselves openly without fear of judgment or stigma.”

Mr Davis often helps young men to navigate relationship break ups and study stress, and supports mature-age men experiencing depression, relationship problems, are single parents, or worried about family member’s mental health.

“I have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety and was suicidal, and about 10 years ago, I wanted to see how other people handled the same thing,” he said.

“I had medical support, but I was battling my issues in isolation, so I joined the Beyond Blue Forums, to just look at them; I had no intention of writing anything – and I had no intention of ever

using my real name; I simply wanted to see how others were coping with similar mental health issues.”

Dr Martin says getting support early, means you get well sooner and stay well.

“Latest research shows that 40 per cent of users of the service are men; but we encourage more men to reach out to our Forums; whether it’s to take that frst step to ask for help, or to complement existing treatment, our team is available whenever you need them.

“By destigmatising mental health conversations and promoting peer support initiatives, we can create a culture where men feel comfortable seeking the support they need to get back on track - no problem is too big or too

small to ask for help,” Dr Martin said. Beyond Blue’s Peer Support Forums average 150,000 visits to the forums every month. The content is monitored by moderators 24 hours/7 days a week. Men can also check-up on their mental health using Beyond Blue’s online checklist, and receive recommendations tailored to their need: https://www.beyondblue. org.au/mental-health/k10 Beyond Blue Forums: https://forums. beyondblue.org.au/

For people who need more immediate support, the Beyond Blue Support Service provides 24/7 free counselling, advice and referrals via phone 1300 22 4636, webchat or email. www. beyondblue.org.au/getsupport

Mental Well-Being Crucial for Healthy Aging, New Study Reveals

A recent study published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour has established the signifcant impact of mental well-being on healthy aging. The research evaluated the causal effects of mental well-being on genetically independent aging phenotypes (aging GIP), providing new insights into the relationship between mental health and aging.

Key Findings:

• Human Longevity and Challenges: While human life expectancy has increased over time, the aging population poses challenges for both individuals and society. Mental well-being is known to correlate with lifestyle behaviours and morbidity and is linked to physical health and increased survival.

• Socioeconomic Status (SES) Connection: Socioeconomic status (SES) is interlinked with both aging and mental well-being, but a direct causal relationship between mental wellbeing and healthy aging had yet to be established until now.

Study Overview:

Researchers utilized Mendelian randomization (MR) to assess the effects of mental well-being on aging phenotypes.

Summary-level genomewide association study (GWAS) data from people of European descent were used. The exposures included various well-being traits such as life satisfaction, neuroticism, depressive symptoms, and positive affect. SES indicators— education, occupation, and income—were also considered.

A total of 106 candidate mediators were screened, including lifestyle factors, physical function traits, diseases, and behaviours. These mediators were selected based on their causal association with aging GIP and the well-being spectrum.

Methodology:

• Linkage Disequilibrium Score Regression: This was used to examine genetic correlations between mental well-being traits, aging phenotypes, and SES indicators.

• Univariable and Multivariable MR

Analyses: These analyses were performed to assess the causal effects of mediators and mental well-being traits on aging phenotypes and to investigate the impact of SES indicators on mental

linked to increased aging GIP, resilience, health span, parental lifespan, and self-rated health.

• Positive and Negative Associations: Positive affect and life satisfaction

SES indicators.

Mediators: Out of 106 candidate mediators, 33 met the criteria for inclusion.

Key fndings included:

• Unhealthier Lifestyle Factors: These were

well-being traits.

• Two-Step MR Analysis: This tested the mediating effects between the well-being spectrum and aging GIP. Results:

• Genetic Correlations: Positive genetic correlations were observed between all mental well-being traits and aging GIP components (except for longevity). The well-being spectrum was

were positively associated with aging phenotypes, while depressive symptoms and neuroticism were inversely associated.

• SES and WellBeing: Higher income, education, and occupation were causally linked to improved mental well-being. The well-being spectrum independently correlated with higher aging GIP, even after adjusting for

associated with lower aging GIP.

• Positive Infuences: Factors such as later smoking initiation age, higher cheese consumption, appendicular lean mass (ALM), cognitive performance, highdensity lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and fresh fruit intake were associated with higher aging GIP.

• Signifcant

Diseases: Heart failure, hypertension, stroke, and coronary heart disease had the highest effect sizes on aging GIP. Several factors, including antihypertensive medication, smoking initiation age, and television watching time, mediated at least 7% of the effect of the wellbeing spectrum on aging GIP. Other mediators, such as non-steroidal anti-infammatory drugs, waist-to-hip ratio, and fresh fruit intake, also played signifcant roles.

Conclusion

The study illustrated the causal effects of mental well-being on aging phenotypes independent of SES. Better mental well-being was linked to improved aging GIP, with the causal effect partly explained by various mediators, including lifestyle factors, physical functions, diseases, and behaviours. These fndings underscore the importance of prioritizing mental well-being to promote healthy aging.

Whooping Cough and Pneumonia Cases Surge in NSW, Posing Signifcant Risk to Children

Whooping cough rates have surged to their highest levels in nearly a decade in New South Wales (NSW), and the number of young children hospitalized with pneumonia has more than doubled compared to the same period last year, according to state health data.

Pertussis Cases Reach Alarming Levels

The latest NSW Health respiratory surveillance report reveals that there have been 103.1 notifcations of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, per 100,000 people in the state so far this year. The last time fgures were this high was in 2016, with a rate of 139.6 per 100,000.

Professor Robert Booy, an infectious diseases paediatrician

at the University of Sydney, attributes the rise to several viruses and bacteria, including pertussis and mycoplasma, actively spreading, particularly among primary schoolaged children.

“Both [pertussis and mycoplasma] are causing pneumonia, leading to hospital admissions, emergency department presentations, and the need for antibiotic treatment,” said Professor Booy.

Public Health Advisory NSW Health advises individuals to stay home if unwell and to wear a mask if going out is necessary, in an effort to reduce the spread of these respiratory illnesses.

Young People Particularly at Risk Health data indicates that

pneumonia rates among children aged zero to 16 are “unseasonably high” and exceed levels recorded in the past fve years. In early June this year, nearly 140 children under the age of four presented to emergency departments with pneumonia, compared to fewer than 60 at the same time last year. For children aged fve to 16, the number was 400, up from fewer than 50 last year.

The increase is attributed to a specifc strain of pneumonia, commonly referred to as “walking pneumonia.”

The report states that Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a frequent cause of pneumonia in school-aged children, with epidemics occurring every three to fve years. The last epidemic in NSW occurred before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Expert Insights

Dr. Rebekah Hoffman, chair of the NSW and ACT branch of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, noted that while most individuals contracting Mycoplasma pneumoniae would remain “quite well,” they might suffer from a persistent cough for several weeks or months. “For some kids, especially if they are immunocompromised or have other respiratory problems, they might get really sick and need hospitalization,” Dr. Hoffman said.

Both Dr. Hoffman and Professor Booy highlighted that social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in 2020 and 2021, resulted in children not being exposed to other respiratory illnesses, such as

whooping cough and pneumonia. Professor Booy explained that the absence of exposure created a group of susceptible young children who are now developing and spreading whooping cough in school and other settings.

Resurgence Patterns

Whooping cough typically surges every three to six years, but due to the pandemic, this interval has now stretched to six to eight years. Dr. Hoffman noted that the spike in respiratory illnesses refects young people “catching up” on infections they missed in previous years. She expressed surprise at the signifcant increase in whooping cough rates. Professor Booy emphasized the seriousness of whooping

cough for certain groups, particularly newborn babies. “The children at most risk are the very young… they need protection from their mother being vaccinated during pregnancy to develop antibodies which pass to the baby before it’s even born,” he said.

The health department data also indicated that COVID-19 cases remain “high” in the state.

Conclusion

The surge in whooping cough and pneumonia cases in NSW is a signifcant public health concern, particularly for young children. Continued vigilance, vaccination, and adherence to public health guidelines are essential to manage and mitigate the spread of these illnesses.

B Vitamins Target Gut-Brain Axis for Parkinson’s Treatment

A study led by the Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine in Japan has uncovered a signifcant link between gut microbiota and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Researchers found a reduction in gut bacteria genes responsible for synthesizing essential B vitamins B2 (ribofavin) and B7 (biotin). They also identifed a connection between the absence of these genes and low levels of agents that maintain the integrity of the intestinal barrier, which prevents toxins from entering the bloodstream and causing the infammation observed in PD. These fndings, published in npj Parkinson’s Disease, suggest that addressing these defciencies with B vitamin treatment could be a viable approach to treating PD.

Key Findings:

• Reduction in B Vitamin Synthesizing Genes: The study found a decrease in the bacterial genes responsible for synthesizing ribofavin and biotin in PD patients. These vitamins are

crucial for maintaining the intestinal barrier, which prevents toxins from entering the bloodstream and causing infammation.

• Role of Gut Microbiota: Gut microbiota infuence various physiological processes, including the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and polyamines, which are essential for maintaining the intestinal barrier.

• Global Metanalysis: Researchers Hiroshi Nishiwaki and Jun Ueyama conducted a metanalysis of stool samples from PD patients in Japan, the United States, Germany, China, and Taiwan using shotgun sequencing, a technique that sequences all genetic material in a sample. This provided a comprehensive understanding of the microbial community and genetic makeup.

Impact of B Vitamins:

• Anti-Infammatory Properties: Ribofavin and biotin, derived from both food and gut microbiota, have antiinfammatory properties that may counteract the

neuroinfammation seen in PD.

• Metabolic Processes: These vitamins are vital for metabolic processes that produce SCFAs and polyamines, which help maintain the integrity of the intestinal barrier. Potential Therapeutic Avenue:

• Supplementation Therapy: The study suggests that supplementation with ribofavin and biotin could alleviate PD symptoms and slow disease progression by strengthening the intestinal barrier and reducing neuroinfammation.

• Personalized Treatment: Future therapies could be customized based on the unique microbiome profle of each patient. By altering bacterial levels in the microbiome, doctors could potentially delay the onset of PD symptoms.

Expert Insights: Nishiwaki explained that defciencies in polyamines and SCFAs could lead to thinning of the intestinal mucus layer, increasing

intestinal permeability, which is observed in PD. This higher permeability allows toxins to expose nerves, contributing to the abnormal aggregation of alpha-synuclein, activating immune cells in the brain, and leading to long-term infammation.

“Supplementation therapy targeting ribofavin and biotin holds promise as a potential therapeutic avenue for alleviating PD symptoms and slowing disease progression,”

Nishiwaki added.

Future Directions:

The study highlights the importance of understanding the complex relationship among gut microbiota, metabolic pathways, and neurodegeneration. In the coming years, therapy could potentially be customized based on each patient’s unique microbiome profle. By performing gut microbiota and faecal metabolite analyses, doctors could identify individuals with

specifc defciencies and administer targeted ribofavin and biotin supplements, creating an effective treatment for PD.

In conclusion, the research underscores the promising role of B vitamins in maintaining gut health and potentially treating Parkinson’s disease by targeting the gut-brain axis. This innovative approach could lead to new, personalized treatments, improving the quality of life for PD patients.

Lotus Emeya Set to Launch in Australia in 2025

By Jeff Gibbs

Lotus has introduced the all-new 2024 Lotus Emeya, a four-door electric ‘coupe’ poised to challenge high-end Porsche Taycan EVs and stake a claim in the burgeoning hyper-GT segment. Boasting an impressive powertrain and striking design, the Emeya is set to redefne electric luxury performance.

The fagship 2024 Lotus Emeya features a dual-motor powertrain delivering an astonishing 675kW and 985Nm of torque. This setup enables the Emeya to accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 2.8 seconds, rivaling the performance of the Porsche Taycan Turbo S. It achieves a top speed of 256km/h, facilitated by a sophisticated two-speed transmission.

Powered by a 102kWh lithium-ion battery, the Emeya supports ultra-fast DC charging up to 350kW, allowing

By Jeff Gibbs

the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes. While Lotus has not yet disclosed the exact range, the fast-charging capability ensures minimal downtime.

The Emeya’s exterior combines bold lines and sharp angles, drawing inspiration from designs by Lamborghini and Fisker. It features a wedge-shaped silhouette, slimline exterior lighting, and a striking yellow and black colour scheme. Aerodynamic

effciency is enhanced by an active front grille, air-dam combination, and an active rear spoiler capable of generating over 215kg of downforce, supported by an active diffuser.

Inside, the Emeya continues its aggressive styling with deeply sculpted bucket seats, chunky door trims, a multi-layered dashboard, and a thick steering wheel. The minimalist digital instrument cluster is complemented by a massive 55-inch

augmented reality headup display (AR HUD) that projects crucial driving information onto the windshield.

During spirited driving, the AR HUD can be switched off in favor of a slim display on the dash, showing essential information only. The interior also features adaptive air suspension as standard and a ‘racegrade’ braking system, ensuring the vehicle can stop almost as quickly as it accelerates.

Lotus has incorporated

sustainably sourced and recycled materials throughout the Emeya. The cabin includes repurposed fbres from the fashion industry, PVD aluminium, Alcantara, Nappa leather, and Ultrafabrics PU, refecting a commitment to eco-friendly luxury.

Ben Payne, Vice President of Design at Lotus Group, commented on the Emeya’s debut: “This is a Lotus like you have never seen before. We’ve built on everything Lotus has

achieved so far to create a luxury performance car for the drivers, designed to inspire confdence, exhilarate with raw emotion and pure joy –connecting them to the road.”

While customer deliveries have already begun in China, more details about the Emeya lineup, market availability, and pricing will be revealed in the next quarter. The launch in right-hand drive markets, including Australia, is expected in the second half of this year.

The 2024 Lotus Emeya marks a signifcant leap forward for Lotus, combining blistering performance, cuttingedge technology, and sustainable luxury. As it prepares to enter the market, the Emeya is set to challenge established players like the Porsche Taycan, offering a compelling new option for enthusiasts of highperformance electric vehicles.

Finally, the Toyota 86 We’ve Always Wanted

Toyota could be preparing a radical new version of its GR86 sports car, according to a report from the popular Japanese magazine Best Car, which is known for its well-placed sources in the Japanese auto industry. The new GR86 is expected to debut next year with signifcant updates that will bring it into direct competition with the Mazda MX-5.

Key Highlights:

• Potent Powertrain:

The new GR86 will reportedly feature the 1.6-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine from the Yaris GR, paired with Toyota’s hybrid technology. This hybrid setup is claimed to produce more than 220kW.

• Design Overhaul:

The GR86 is expected to grow in size to accommodate the new engine and electric motor. Best Car’s digital render showcases a

drastically redesigned front end with a three- tier lighting structure and a prominent bar running the length of the bonnet.

developed in partnership with Daihatsu and Suzuki, will spawn new versions of the Daihatsu Copen and Suzuki Cappuccino.

Toyota GR President Tomoya Takahashi emphasized the importance of collaboration between companies for the future of sports cars. “The sports car market is shrinking. We cannot maintain sports cars as one brand, Toyota,” said Takahashi.

The rear end features LED lighting running the length of the back, a prominent rear spoiler, and dual exhausts.

• Upcoming Sports Car Revolution: Rumours suggest a new sports car revolution in Japan, with Toyota potentially preparing a new Celica and a micro S-FR. The new Toyota Celica is expected to debut at next year’s Tokyo Auto Salon in January. The mini S-FR sports car, believed to be

“Collaboration between brands will increase in the future. We don’t know with whom we’re going to collaborate.”

The 2025 Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ are set to redefne the sports car segment with their potent hybrid powertrains and innovative designs. As the market gears up for a new wave of highperformance vehicles, Toyota’s strategic collaborations and cutting-edge technology ensure that enthusiasts have plenty to look forward to.

Hi, I’m the guy that started TradeTools way back in 1987 &, just a few years ago, I bought 145 acres in the Northern Rivers area, not far from Nimbin. Since then, I’ve been building a place on my land on which to retire & it soon became obvious to me that the entire area needed a company like TradeTools with its unique range of tools & equipment. No other company that we know of has anything like our range of air compressors [many of which we still make ourselves] pressure washers, workshop equipment, tool storage, ute canopies, air tools, nail guns or hand tools that so many of us good folk in regional areas like this one always need & usually have to search for far & wide.

You can go to a major hardware store, or even another tool company, but over half of what we stock they simply don’t have &, in the rare event that they do, their prices are often outrageous! TradeTools is a major importer of much of what we sell, particularly our very own exclusive Renegade Industrial brand of tools, machinery & equipment so, when you buy from us, you are mainly dealing directly with the national importer with over 1000 containers annually fowing through our Gold Coast warehouse alone.

We also carry a huge range of major brand Cordless Tools & Equipment, all at great prices rarely seen outside of the major cities. TradeTools has a fully qualifed ftter onsite at Lismore so, even if you buy major brand power tools from elsewhere, you’ll often fnd that TradeTools is your nearest warranty & repair agent covering Milwaukee, Makita, DeWalt, Hikoki, Metabo etc.

This article is showing you just a small sample of all that we sell, so feel free to come down & meet the guys at TradeTools Lismore anytime, you’re always welcome! TradeTools is a private family business, run more like a cooperative than a traditional company, where the people that serve you are often the very people that actually own the enterprise; old fashioned yes, but we all really like it that way, & we hope you do too!

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Going hard on soft-close.

The world has gone mad for it but has humanity plumbed new levels of softness?

We have visited the wonderment of soft-close’’ previously, back when I installed a new bathroom cabinet with a door that was hard to close, which turned out to be because it was a soft-close door. How ironic. That took time to process as did just how much soft-close things hurt if you happen to get in the way. They’re not like your revolving doors, remote-

Longview Adelaide Hills

‘Yakka’ Shiraz, 2021, $30. Yakka is such a lovely word. Fun to say, easy to spell and a much nicer word for its meaning than the baggage laden ‘work’ or ‘labour’. A worthy beverage for knock-off time. 9.4/10.

Longview Adelaide Hills

control garage doors or your automatic car-boot or window mechanism, all of which will stop before they kill you or chop your fngers off, although best not test this in case they’re broken.

Anyway, someone lamented recently that ‘soft-close’ has taken a critical tool out of domestic and workplace arguments in as much as you can no longer use the slamming of such for emphasis of whatever point you are trying to make, which was

‘Vista’ Shiraz Barbera 2022, $23. A fresh young thing at a fresh young price and would be an ideal accompaniment to a quiet drink at a lookout overlooking Adelaide or its hills. 9.2/10.

Longview Adelaide Hills

‘Queenie’ Pinot Grigio

possibly the impetus for their invention in the frst place, ie to stop people acting like a 3-year-old child chucking a tanty’.

However, what might someone inclined to do such a thing as slam a door, do instead? Stomp their feet perhaps? Actually, in hindsight, the slamming a soft-close thing could have just the required effect, eliciting shocked surprise all around because nothing happened…when it should have.

Note to self, ‘let’s try this

2023, $23. Funny how smart packaging can infuence your brain that the contents are too. Or is this just a really smart pinot grigio? Close your eyes and fnd out. Great value. 9.3/10.

Hancock & Hancock

McLaren Vale Shiraz 2021, $23. IHancock and

next argument’.

It almost doesn’t matter where you are nowadays too, if looking for something soft-close to ‘slam’, it’s gone way beyond the intended use of kitchen drawers and cupboards and almost everything that opens and shuts now uses the mechanism.

Rubbish bins and tidy bins were among the frst alternate uses, car boots quick to follow, although to be fair, Rolls Royce had such a thing in the ‘70s.

Hancock could be a frm of solicitors and for all we know are, and if so imagine what their boardroom is stocked with? Luckily you don’t need to be a lawyer to afford this. Solid, sound stuff. 9.3/10.

Hancock and Hancock

McLaren Vale Rosé 2023,

Soft-close toilet seats were an obvious necessity. Who hasn’t accidentally woken the whole house at midnight? Alas one can no longer prove one did actually put it down using auditory means.

Amazingly now even kettles have them, but whoever slammed a kettle lid anyway?

Disappointingly, one thing that really does need a soft close mechanism is the passenger door on my car, which despite having asked repeatedly, still gets

$23. No grape mentioned on the label but from McLaren Vale there’s a chance it is grenache, although given that grenache is the most expensive grape of all lately, maybe not? Serious rosé, full and dry which would be a contradiction if it were a water tank. 9.3/10.

slammed.

Ms L. insists it’s because everything else in her life is soft-close and she forgets, rather than because we argue every time we travel. I will test the veracity of this with my next car, which will have a soft-close passenger door. I await her look of disappointment with relish.

Conversely, what my cellar door really needs is a soft-open mechanism rather than soft-close. Ms L. always seems to notice.

Hancock & Hancock McLaren Vale

Sauvignon 2022, $23. The Vale is probably more renowned for its shiraz, but like it is in the Barossa too, cabernet can really shine and is often a bargain because of that reputation. Don’t tell anyone. 9.2/10.

Max Crus

Cabernet

BREAKFAST EGG AND HAM MUFFINS

EASY CHURROS

5 INGREDIENTS

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

• oil spray

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

• 4 (English) muffns, halved and toasted

• 120g shaved leg ham

3 METHOD STEPS

Step 1

Spray a frying pan with oil. Heat over medium heat. Cook ham, turning, for 2 to 3 minutes or until light golden. Transfer to a plate. Cover to keep warm.

Step 2

Preheat grill on medium. Lightly spray pan with oil. Heat over medium heat. Cook eggs for 4

• 4 eggs • 4 slices tasty cheese

minutes or until cooked to your liking.

Step 3

Place 4 muffn halves on a baking tray lined with foil. Place 1 egg on each muffn. Top each with ham and 1 slice cheese. Grill for 1 minute or until cheese has melted. Top with remaining muffn halves. Serve.

INGREDIENTS

• 80g butter, chopped

16 INGREDIENTS

• 2 tsp olive oil

• 1 brown onion, fnely chopped

• 2 carrots, peeled, chopped

• 2 celery sticks, trimmed, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 200g cavalo nero (Tuscan cabbage), stem removed, leaves shredded

• 2 thick slices Italian bread (pane di casa), lightly toasted, torn into chunks

• 1 tbsp caster sugar

SLOW COOKED TUSCAN BREAD SOUP

• 1 cup (150g) plain four

• 1/2 cup (110g) caster sugar, extra

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 2 Eggs

• Vegetable oil, to deep-fry Chocolate sauce

• 100g dark chocolate, chopped

• 1 tsp fennel seeds

• Pinch of dried chilli fakes

• 400g can crushed tomatoes

• 400g can Cannellini Beans, drained, rinsed

• 1L (4 cups) Massel vegetable liquid stock

• 40g (1/2cup) fnely grated parmesan, (or vegetarian hard cheese) plus extra shaved, to serve

• 1 lemon, juiced, zested

FRENCH-STYLE PORK POT ROAST

• Finely chopped continental parsley, to serve

• Bouquet garni (4 fresh or dried bay leaves, 4 fresh sprigs thyme, 2 fresh sprigs rosemary)

2 METHOD STEPS

almost tender.

• 1/2 cup (125ml) pouring cream

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

METHOD

1. Combine the butter, sugar and 1 cup (250ml) water in a saucepan. Bring to the boil over high heat. Remove from heat. Add four and stir to combine. Place over high heat and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 mins or until dough is smooth and coming away from the side of the pan. Set aside for 10 mins to cool.

INGREDIENTS

Step 1

• 1.5kg piece pork scotch (neck)

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 brown onion, diced 2 carrots, diced

up at 5cm intervals to secure.

Step 2

• 4 shortcut bacon rashers, thinly sliced

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

• 8 sprigs fresh thyme

• 2 garlic cloves, quartered

• 1 tsp sea salt

• 1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled, diced

• 1 dried bay leaf

• 1/2 cup dry white wine

• 1 cup chicken liquid stock

• 150g button mushrooms, halved

Stir in cavalo nero, bread and parmesan. Cover and cook on High for 30 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly. Stir in lemon juice, to taste. Serve topped with parsley, lemon zest and extra parmesan.

2. Heat oil in a large, heavy-based fameproof casserole dish over medium heat. Add onion, carrot and bacon. Cook, stirring, for 6 to 8 minutes or until onion is softened.

3. Meanwhile, remove the leaves from 4 sprigs thyme. Discard stems. Chop the garlic, thyme leaves and salt together until the garlic is very fnely chopped. Rub all over the pork.

2. To make the chocolate sauce, combine the ch ocolate, cream and sugar in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring, until chocolate melts and mixture is smooth.

3. Combine the extra sugar and cinnamon on a large baking tray.

4. Transfer the dough to a bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth. One step at a time add the eggs, beating well after each addition, until mixture is smooth and glossy. Transfer to a piping bag ftted with a 2cm futed nozzle..

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh fat-leaf parsley leaves

• 400g green beans, steamed

• Mashed potato, to serve

METHOD

4. Add pork to dish. Cook, turning, for 5 minutes or until browned all over. Add apple, bay leaf, wine and remaining thyme sprigs. Simmer for 2 minutes or until wine is reduced by half. Add stock and 1/4 cup of water. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low. Season with pepper. Cover. Cook for 1 hour.

“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.”

1. Place pork on a board. Using kitchen string, tie

5. Turn pork. Cook for 1 hour. Turn pork. Add mushroom to sauce mixture. Cook for a further 45 minutes or until pork is tender and mushroom is soft. Discard bay leaf and kitchen string from pork. Stir in parsley. Serve with beans and mashed potato.

- Auguste Escoffer

5. Add enough oil to a large saucepan to reach 6cm up the side of the pan. Heat to 180C over mediumhigh heat (when oil is ready, a cube of bread turns golden brown in 15 secs). Pipe three 12cm lengths of dough into the oil, cutting the dough with kitchen scissors. (To make baby churros, cut into 3cm lengths.) Cook for 3 mins or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a plate lined with paper towel. Add to the cinnamon sugar and toss to coat. Repeat with remaining dough.

6. Serve churros warm with the chocolate sauce for dipping.baking tray.

Fencing Options for Your Garden

Fencing is an essential aspect of property design and management, providing privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal. In Australia, the diverse range of fencing options caters to various needs, from urban homes to rural properties. This article explores the most popular types of fencing available in Australia, detailing their benefts and applications.

Timber Fencing

Timber fencing remains a classic choice for many Australian homeowners due to its natural appearance and versatility. There are two primary types of timber fencing: paling fences and picket fences.

Paling Fences: are constructed from timber palings and are renowned for their ability to provide excellent privacy and noise reduction. They are a popular choice for backyard fencing, offering a solid barrier that can be painted or stained to match the surrounding landscape. The durability of timber, combined with its natural look, makes paling fences a favourite among those looking to create a private outdoor space.

Picket Fences: are iconic in their design, often associated with quaint, traditional homes. These fences feature evenly spaced vertical boards (pickets)

attached to horizontal rails. While they do not provide as much privacy as paling fences, picket fences are prized for their decorative appeal. They are commonly used in front yards to create a charming and welcoming appearance.

Colorbond Fencing

Colorbond fencing has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its durability, low maintenance, and modern aesthetic.

Made from steel coated with a durable, weather-resistant fnish, Colorbond fences are available in a wide range of colours, allowing homeowners to match their fence to the colour scheme of their property.

One of the signifcant advantages of Colorbond fencing is its strength. It is resistant to corrosion, fre, and termites, making it an excellent choice for the Australian climate. Additionally, Colorbond fences

provide a high level of privacy and security, as they are diffcult to climb and create a solid barrier.

Chain Link Fencing

Chain link fencing is a versatile and cost-effective option commonly used for security, sports felds, and animal enclosures. Made from galvanised or coated steel wire, chain link fences are durable and provide good visibility while marking property boundaries.

Although not typically chosen for aesthetic reasons, chain link fencing is valued for its practicality. It is easy to install, requires minimal maintenance, and can be customised with various heights and mesh sizes to suit different applications.

Aluminum Fencing

Aluminium fencing offers a lightweight, rust-resistant alternative to traditional metal fences. Its versatility makes it suitable for both residential and commercial properties. Aluminium fences are available in a variety of styles and colours, allowing for customisation to match the property’s aesthetic.

One of the main benefts of aluminium fencing is its durability. Unlike iron, aluminium does not rust, making it an excellent choice for coastal areas or places with high humidity. Additionally, aluminium fences are easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning to

keep them looking their best.

Glass Fencing

Glass fencing is a popular choice for pool areas and patios, offering an unobstructed view and a sleek, modern look. It is available in frameless or semi-frameless designs, both of which provide a high-end fnish to outdoor spaces.

The primary advantage of glass fencing is its ability to provide a barrier without blocking the view. This feature makes it ideal for pools, where safety is paramount, but maintaining the visual appeal of the surrounding area is also important.

Glass fences are made from toughened safety glass, ensuring they are strong and durable.

Wrought Iron Fencing

Wrought iron fencing is known for its decorative appeal and strength. Often used for gates and front fences, wrought iron adds a touch of elegance to any property. It can be customised with intricate designs, making it a popular choice for those looking to add a unique, artistic element to their home’s exterior. Despite its aesthetic appeal, wrought iron fencing requires regular maintenance to prevent rust and keep it looking its best. However, its durability and the sense of grandeur it imparts make it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

PVC (Vinyl) Fencing

PVC, or vinyl fencing, is a low-maintenance option that offers a clean, uniform appearance. It is resistant to weathering, insects, and rot, making it a durable choice for various applications.

PVC fencing is available in a range of styles, including picket, privacy, and rail fences.

One of the key benefts of PVC fencing is its ease of maintenance.

Unlike wood, it does not require painting or staining and can be easily cleaned with soap and water. This makes it an attractive option for those looking for a hassle-free fencing solution.

Bamboo Fencing

Bamboo fencing is an eco-friendly option that provides a natural, tropical look. It is often used for gardens and decorative purposes, creating a unique and aesthetically pleasing barrier.

Bamboo is a renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.

Bamboo fencing is relatively easy to install and can be used to create privacy screens, garden borders, or even as an accent within other types of fencing. Its natural appearance blends well with outdoor environments, adding a touch of nature to any setting.

Rural and Farm Fencing

For rural properties and farms, specifc

types of fencing are necessary to contain livestock and mark property boundaries. Two common types are post and rail fences and barbed wire fences.

Post and Rail Fences are traditional rural fences used to contain livestock. They consist of wooden or metal posts with horizontal rails and are valued for their simplicity and effectiveness.

Barbed Wire Fences: are another common choice for rural areas, providing a cost-effective solution for livestock control and security. The barbed wire acts as a deterrent to animals and intruders, making it a practical choice for large properties.

Brushwood Fencing

Brushwood fencing offers a rustic look and excellent soundproofng properties. Made from natural brushwood, this type of fence is often used for privacy and garden fencing. Brushwood fences are durable and blend well with natural surroundings, providing a seamless and organic barrier.

The variety of fencing options available in Australia ensures that there is a suitable choice for every need and preference. Whether prioritising privacy, security, aesthetics, or sustainability, Australian homeowners can fnd the perfect fence to enhance and protect their property.

Edith Frances May

15.08.1935 – 20.06.2024

Passed away peacefully at Baptist Care Maranoa, Alstonville, aged 88 years.

Loved and loving Wife of Ivio (Dec’d) for 66 years.

Adored Mother & Mother in-law of Barry & Donna, and Angela and Daryl Dobson. Cherished Nanny to her grandchildren Brooke, Tahlia; Meaghan and Joel.

Loved Sister of Charles, Edna, Caroline and Edward (All Dec’d). Loved Aunt of their families. Loved by the extended Handford and Pagotto families.

Family & Friends are invited to the service of Prayers and anksgiving for the life of Edith, to be held at Our Lady of the Rosary, Catholic Church, Main Street Alstonville, Monday 8th July 2024, commencing at 11:00 AM. Followed by interment at the Alstonville Lawn Cemetery.

ose unable to attend with the family in person can do so via the live stream link: https://streaming.naoca.com.au/e/4839eab8-0aee4b -8e81-2c6271d2f073

Death Notice

In Loving Memory

KEVIN CHARLES HERMON

Age 97yrs

23/3/1927 – 16/6/2024

Late of Tregeagle.

Passed away peaceful on Sunday 16th June 2024 at Lismore Base Hospital

Loving & Devoted husband of Valda for 72yrs

Brother of: Wilfred (Bill), Doreen, Ronald, Stanley (Joe), Milton, Jean (Raison) all deceased, & Survived by Mervyn (wife Lorraine)

Adored Father and Father-in-law of Beverley Roberts (McIntyre), Jennifer & Mark Sharpe, Denise & Stephen (dec) Crake

Cherished Pop to Kylie, Matthew & Stacey, Luke, Nathan & Kyrie,

Simon & Tess, Angela & Jamie Knowles, & Gemma

Special Grandpop to his 11 Great Grandchildren.

He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. A funeral has been held at the Goonellabah Lawn Cemetery

Celebrant: Dot Orchard / Simplicity Funerals

This page is dedicated to all those that have passed

FORECAST

Warnings See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog inland. Light winds. Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Light winds.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the north. Medium chance of showers on and west of the ranges, slight chance elsewhere. Winds north to northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h becoming light during the afternoon. Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Light winds.

New South Wales:

Isolated showers over the far southern inland, tending scattered on western slopes of the southern ranges. Snow showers on the Alps above 1200 metres. Isolated showers about the northeast inland. Fine and mostly sunny elsewhere. Early frost and fog patches inland. Daytime temperatures above average in the northeast, and near average elsewhere. West to northwesterly winds, fresh and gusty across the south, tending light and variable in the north.

Thursday. Isolated showers over the far southern inland, tending scattered on western slopes of the southern ranges. Scattered snow showers on the Alps above 1300 metres. Isolated showers over the northeast, possibly becoming scattered near the Queensland border. Fine and mostly sunny elsewhere. Widespread early frost inland, and morning fog patches. Daytime temperatures near average. Light winds.

Byron Coast: Winds: North to northwesterly 10 to 15 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Southerly below 1 metre. Weather: Sunny. Coffs Coast: Winds: North to northwesterly 10 to 15 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Southerly below 1 metre. Weather: Sunny. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: East to northeasterly about 10 knots increasing to 10 to 15 knots during the morning then decreasing to about 10 knots during the afternoon. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Easterly around 1 metre. Weather: Partly cloudy. 60% chance of showers.

The Boambee Bombers defeated second-place Sawtell FC in a thrilling seven-goal match at Ayrshire on Saturday.

The match was an end-to-end spectacle, with both teams creating numerous chances.

However, it was

By Gary Nichols

IT was an ugly game, marred by unforced errors, missed tackles and controversy, but in the fnal wash-up, Grafton came away with an important 22-10 victory over the Kempsey Cannonballs on Saturday.

With the game in the balance with 20-minutes left on the clock, both sides needed a spark and for Grafton, hooker Sio Lavea provided it, scoring two matchwinning tries from set pieces.

Lavea was at his wrecking-ball best parting the Cannonballs

BALLINA MAHJONG 21ST JUNE 2024

Lesley Ritchie 1, Jan Small 2, Coral Lavelle 3, Joy Lowien 4, Shirley Atkinson 5, Jane Fenech 6, Ronda Taylor 7, Yvonne Weddup 8, Susan Allan 9, Pauline Bolte 10, Lorna Simpson 11, Barbara Ellan, Sally Lowry 12, Ramsay Roper 14, Lynda Lovett 15, Vanessa Reynolds 16, Valda McLerie 17, Jenny Lang 18, Kathy Pickles 19, Linda Lloyd 20, Jan Henley 21, Gladys D’Anna, Pauline Kearney 22, Val Heinritz 24, Shirley Coleman 25, Jan Boardman 26, Cindy Smith 27, Carol Meyer 28, Lisa Wong 29, Gail McDonagh 30, Susan Scott 31.

Friday at 12:30pm

Boambee who consistently reached the ball frst, winning the crucial 50/50 challenges that ultimately secured their victory.

The result means Northern Storm have leapfrogged Sawtell into second place on

defence like Moses parting the Red Sea. Earlier, Grafton looked

the table after defeating Westlawn Tigers 7-0.

Woolgoolga maintained their unbeaten season with a 3-2 win over Coffs City United .

Urunga defeated Coffs Coast Tigers 2-1 at Polwarth Drive.

in control of the game, however handling errors helped throw a lifeline to

the home side and they took full advantage. Grafton were superb

at the set-pieces particularly their scrum which decimated the opposition.

at the Ballina Bridge Club North Creek Road. Enquiries for new players phone Shirley on 0423384647.

CASINO SOCIAL GOLF RESULTS 23-06-2024

The single stableford played last Sunday was won by Trevis Jenkins with a score of 21 points from Phillip Piccoli with 19 on a count back. The putting trophy went to Fred Bruni with 15 putts and D. Roberts won the players draw. Nearest to pins:1st, 2nd, 6th & 8th T. Jenkins. 3rd, 4th & 5th, R. Ruttley. 7th, M. Rankin. 17th, C. Hatfeld. 18th, D. Roberts. Next Sunday’s event sponsored by Newstead Automotive Services Casino will

be a 2BBB Stableford on the top 11 holes and visitors are welcome to play with hit off from 6-30am till 7-30am.

CASINO WOMEN’S BOWLS RESULTS

On Wednesday 19/6/24 the fnal of the club selected pairs were played & the results were:

Denise Grice & Denise Skinner def Judy Carthew & Annette James.

Well done ladies & congratulations to the winners for becoming the club selected pairs champions for 2024. Winners for the day in the social games were: Helen Lavelle, Maria Hellyar & Chris Haynes def Helen Lavelle, Jan Dwyer & Julie

Creighton

The other rink winners were Ivy Watson & Jan Cooke def Mary Mead & Carmel Doyle.

CHERRY STREET

CROQUET CLUB

SPORTS RESULTS

RICOCHET

CROQUET:

R. Poynting D.Scott 13

d P. Waters N. Poynting 12

P. Scott N. Barnes 13 d J.Hannigan

D.Cummings 10

J.Doust H.Young 11d

P.Bolte M.Russell 8

C.Edlund

C.Woodlands 11 d

B.Welling B.Bill 8

P.Scott N.Poynting 11

d R.Poynting M.Field 8

M.Russell D.Jones 11

d J.Doust P.Bolte 7

R.Allen J.Hannigan 16

d H.Young N.Barnes 13

Division 2 Club

Championship Final :

R.Poynting 10 d J.Hannigan 9.

TOURNAMENTS:

Northern Rivers Area

Golf Croquet :

OBE : Warren

McDonald & Vince ODoherty Alstonville 1st

Sandra Munro & Kevin Munro

Alstonville 2nd.

Novice : Trevor

Kennedy Ballina 1st.

Denis Cummings

Byron Bay 2nd.

Women’s Advantage

Singles:

Jay Pearce Byron Bay 1st.

Dennise Simmons

Byron Bay 2nd

Robyn Poynting & Jim Hannigan

Division 2 Golf Club

Champion & Runner Up

Grafton Redmen coach Gary Powell was pleased with the win, against a side which showed plenty of grit and determination.

“It’s a relief to come away with the points,” Powell said after the game.

“And to get a bonus point was fantastic. Kempsey are always a hard side to beat on their home ground.

“We have a few things we need to fne-tune at training during the week. The most pleasing thing for me today was our sliding defence in the backs.”

RESULTS

52 players contested the two man ambrose, winners J Savins J Sauer, 2nd S O,Connor B McDonald, chicken/ ball winners T Woods J Lassig, G Tait B Kerrisson, Bruce McDonald N Cupid, J Braby G Flaherty, T Patch R Black, R Ellis J Ellis. Nearest pins 3rd/12th B Kerrisson, 6th/15th B Kerrisson.

This Thursday will be an 18hole single stableford commencing with a shot gun start at 8.30am followed by our monthly barbeque. AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING

CORAKI VETERANS GOLF

Redmen centre Jope Kurimosi nails this Kempsey Cannons ball runner with a copybook head-on hit. Photo: Gary Nichols.

The Australian Longboard Titles will be held as a stand-alone event for the frst time, with the Tweed Coast offering a variety of waves suited to the longboarding style of surfng.

Event Dates: September 12th - 17th, 2024

Location: Tweed Coast, NSW

CASUARINA, NSW (June 21, 2024) –Surfng Australia is thrilled to announce a new location for the 2024 Australian Longboard Titles. This year, for the frst time, the longboard divisions of the 2024 Australian Surf Championships will run as a stand-alone event on Bundjalung Country on the Tweed Coast in northern New South Wales.

The event will span six days, from Thursday, September 12, 2024, to Tuesday, September 17, 2024. Potential event locations include Cabarita Beach, Hastings Point, Kingscliff Beach, Fingal Beach, and Duranbah Beach.

This announcement follows Surfng Australia’s decision to host the Australian

Shortboard Titles, the Australian Para Surfng Titles, and the Australian Bodyboard Titles in Port Macquarie, NSW (July 31st - August 8th), and the Australian SUP Titles on Phillip Island in Victoria (October 22ndOctober 26th).

Surfng Australia Event Director Rohan Fell stated, “We’re looking forward to seeing the longboard divisions of the Australian Surf Championships at a new location that is suited to their style of surfng. The Tweed Coast offers a range of point breaks and back beaches that are not only ideal for longboarding but are

also close to the Hyundai Surfng Australia High Performance Centre. This centre offers worldclass training facilities, function rooms, accommodation, and support services such as coaching and physio that will be available to athletes during the event window.”

Multiple-Australian Champion Landen Smales (Noosa Heads, QLD), who won his frst Australian Logger Title at 12 years old when the Australian Titles were held on the Tweed Coast in 2019, expressed his enthusiasm for the event’s return to the region.

“I’m really looking forward to the Aussie Longboard Titles. It’s great to have the event moving to the Tweed Coast, Bundjalung Country this year. There are so many different breaks to choose from. Last year, I won the Junior and Open Men’s Logger, and I’m keen to compete in the new longboard division with the criteria change this year. The changes suit my surfng, and I’ll be trying to lock in a spot in Team Australia to compete at Worlds later in the year,” Smales said. Australian Longboard Titles - Divisions:

• Under 18 Junior Men

• Under 18 Junior Women

• Open Men

• Open Women

• Grand Masters

Women O40

• Grand Masters Men O40

• Kahunas Men O45

• Grand Kahunas Men O50

• Women O50

• Dukes Men O55

• Grand Dukes O60

• O60 Women

• Legends Men O65

• Grand Legends Men O70

• O70 Women

For the most up-to-date longboard criteria, please refer to the 2024 Surfng Australia Rule Book.

Schedule:

Opening Ceremony:

Date: Thursday, September 12, 2024

Competition

Windows:

Window 1: Friday, September 13, 2024Saturday, September 14, 2024

Divisions: Open Men & Women, U18 Junior Men & Women

Presentation: To be held after competition on Saturday, September 14, 2024

Window 2: Saturday, September 14, 2024Tuesday, September 17, 2024

Divisions: Over 40 Men & Women, Over 45 Men & Over 50 Men & Women, Over 55 Men, Over 60 Men & Women, Over 65 Men & Over 70 Men & Women

Presentation: To be held after the competition on Tuesday, September 17, 2024

For more information, please visit Australian Surf Championships. Entry to the Australian Titles is by state qualifcation or invitation as a wildcard.

The Australian Titles are supported by the Hyundai Surfng Australian High Performance Centre, Jim Beam, and Surfers for Climate.

The Australian Longboard Titles will be held as stand-alone event in 2024. Image: Lighthouse Sports Photography / Surfng Australia

By Tim Howard

The South Grafton Rebels have slipped to the bottom of the Group 2 Rugby League table after a disappointing loss to the Coffs Harbour Comets.

The Rebels had fought back to lead the Comets 12-8 at half time, but fell away in the second half to succumb 26-12.

It’s the club’s seventh loss of the season, with the only win coming back in April against the Comets at McKittrick Park.

It was particularly disappointing for the Rebels who just a week earlier had been pipped at the post by competition leaders Nambucca 22-20.

The only good news for the struggling club is they play the rest of the season at their McKittrick Park fortress, beginning with Sunday’s clash against Macksville.

The 2024 season has been a tough one for the club, seemingly

perpetually rebuilding even while enjoying success on the feld.

Premiers in 2022 and grand fnalists last season, each year the club has dealt with an exodus of players but with shrewd recruiting and a steady supply of talented juniors coming through the ranks South Grafton has been able to get results.

While the results have

not come so far this season, the team remains competitive, with a number of close losses, by 2, 4, 6 and 8 points the difference between a poor season and a good one.

Club offcials privately have said the draw, which has allowed them only two home games so far this season, has not done them any favours.

At half time on Sunday

Rebels supporters were waiting for their team to kick away as they did in the game against the Comets in round 2.

Richard Roberts and Nick McGrady had scored tries, which McGrady converted. Instead the game plan went out the window in attack and defence with dropped passes and missed tackles gifting the Comets points.

They capitalised scoring three converted tries and shut the Rebels out for 40 minutes to run away with the game.

Comets halfback Jett McCarthy had a whale of a game, scoring two tries as well as kicking three goals.

The Rebels face another tough afternoon on Sunday against a tough, uncompromising Macksville outft who

The Sydney Swans’ AFLW squad is heading to Newcastle as part of the frst-ever league wide AFLW Community Camp program on 6-7 July.

With fewer than two months to go until its third NAB AFLW campaign, the Swans’ players will use the visit to inspire new fans and garner more support in NSW’s second most populated city. The Swans host Collingwood in a blockbuster Friday night clash at North Sydney Oval on Friday, 30 August to kick off the AFLW season.

Women and girls will be front and centre at the Swans’ Community Camp with two sessions specifcally relating to girls keen to play footy.

An All Girls Super Clinic will be followed by an U9 girls gala day, providing fantastic opportunities for participants to meet elite players and have a kick.

In an action-packed weekend, there will also be sessions for selected women and girls involved in youth and senior football including a leadership forum, an umpiring information session and a coaching masterclass featuring players and coaches from the Sydney Swans. Participation and Programs Project Manager, AFL NSW/ ACT, Simon Smyth, said of the Sydney Swans’ visit to Newcastle: “It’s a great time to be a girl playing footy and we’re grateful the Sydney Swans have chosen Newcastle for the team’s frst offcial AFLW Community Camp.

“This area has a strong connection to footy with AFL Hunter Central Coast one of the country’s oldest-running sports leagues. We’ve seen many Australian rules football legends come out of this area and we hope the

Community Camp will inspire some stars of the future.

“I encourage all girls to attend Saturday’s clinic and any undernine girl with an interest in team sport to try the gala day on Sunday.

The Community Camp is also a great time for youth girls and senior women coaches, umpires and players to mingle with elite players and receive a few tips.”

Lord Mayor, Nuatali Nelmes, said City of Newcastle’s ongoing investment in No.1 Sportsground continues to pay dividends for local athletes.

“We’re delighted to welcome the Sydney Swans AFLW squad to Newcastle for this highly anticipated Community Camp,” Cr Nelmes said.

“Through City of Newcastle’s 10-year Strategic Sports Plan

we’re providing facilities that support

universal access and allow for greater female participation in sport. Our $8 million investment into improving and expanding the playing surface and installing new foodlights at No.1 Sportsground was just the beginning of upgrades that are designed to deliver a facility capable of hosting elite-level AFL and AFLW matches.”

All Girls Super Clinic

A great way to mingle with the Sydney Swans AFLW players and play footy-based games. No previous Australian rules football experience needed.

Date: Saturday, 6 July

Time: 1:30-2:30pm

Location: No.

1 Sportsground, Newcastle

Ages: 5-12

U9 Girls Gala Day

An opportunity for girls under nine years to try Australian rules football in a fun

love to get on top through their forward pack.

Macksville came out on top on a bitterly cold and wet afternoon at Macksville in April, but Rebels fans will look to make it hot and uncomfortable for the visitors at home this weekend.

The Grafton Ghost had the bye at the weekend after putting together their best game of the season against Macksville the week before.

On Saturday the Ghosts host Sawtell in a crucial game for both teams.

When they two clubs last met in April the result was a 12-12 draw.

The Panthers have been impressive for most of the season, sitting in second spot on the ladder two points ahead of the Ghosts.

A win on Saturday for the Ghosts could see some changes in the top four, depending on other results.

environment with modifed rules, including no tackle. Sydney Swans AFLW players will offer support and provide some basic coaching.

Date: Sunday, 7 July

Time: 11:30am1:00pm

Location: Pasterfeld Sports Complex, Cameron Park Ages: 5-8 years

Swans AFLW Coach Masterclass

Be a part of the Swans AFLW Coach Masterclass, exclusively available for women and girls looking to gain invaluable insights from the experts.

Date: Saturday, 6 July

Time: 2:30PM

Location: No.

1 Sportsground, Newcastle

Register: Coaches will be invited to register via email

U9 Girls competition 2025

For the frst time, AFL Hunter Central Coast will offer an U9 Girls

competition in season 2025. Girls currently play mixed teams in U9s, with standalone girls sides competing from U11.

NAB AFL Auskick Burst in Newcastle Participants inspired by the Sydney Swans will have an opportunity to join the fun weekly, with NAB AFL Auskick re-opening in Newcastle from 21 July, offering participants half a season of the Auskick experience and the beloved Auskick pack. We call it Auskick Burst, with participants bursting on the footy scene and having a great time. Auskick Burst will be offered at a greatly reduced price, which will be revealed before the Sydney Swans’ AFLW Community Camp.

Rebels captain Grant Stevens, shown here in a fle photo from 2022, took over the coaching role in addition to the captaincy in the absence of regular coach Ron Gordon on Saturday.

REBELS HIT ROCK BOTTOM