The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 209

Delta contributing to Yamba food issues

By Tim Howard

Developers attempting to build on the West Yamba food plain are tangling with something much older than climate change effects a hearing into a proposed multi-million dollar development has heard.

On July 2 retired engineer and Yamba a resident Stan Cousins was giving evidence at a Land and Environment Court conciliation hearing involving the developer of 216 dwelling estate in Carrs Dr, Clifton Yamba and Clarence Valley Council.

The developers had taken the council to court, claiming a “deemed refusal” of a DA for the Carrs Dr development, because the council had been too slow providing information during the approval process.

Mr Cousins was one of six objectors to give evidence during the hearing.

During his evidence he revealed he and a group of retired engineers with expertise in a variety of felds, had spent three years investigating impact of the Clarence River delta on food events.

“We started out having a bit of a chat thing about three years ago about what’s going on here, and primarily rain events and lack of ability to handle stormwater in Yamba itself and then the closing of the internal roads in very quick time caused us to get a bit more earnest,” he said.

Mr Cousins said as they gathered information about the size and nature of the catchment and the way it interacted with the delta at the mouth of the river, the magnitude of the issue emerged.

“So we’re at the bottom of the biggest catchment in the on the East Coast,”

Mr Cousins said.

“It extends right up between Armidale, Ebor and Grafton, goes out to southwest of Mount Mitchell and Glen Innes.

“It goes right up to

just east of Stanthorpe, just south of Killarney and a lot of it’s granite, so it’s very high runoff, high yield and when that catchment goes, well, it’s basically Armageddon.”

of still part of the ocean.”

Mr Cousins said in the 2022 food event was a result of heavy runoff from the river pouring into an already charged catchment.

people’s properties when you do that.”

He said the delta spans a 30km section of coastline around Yamba and over many years water levels had fallen, but as climate change began to take effect, water levels began to rise again.

“In the event of 2022, within a day and a half, the big lake at Wooloweyah overfowed and headed towards Yamba and that’s when we had that event,” he said.”

Mr Cousins said it was unfortunate, but development needed to be halted on the foodplain these issues were better understood.

He described the current food model as a “a bit fawed” in a couple of ways.

“One is that’s assumed in a set of calculations to come up with a

“It’s very important to understand this, because this is the fundamental what we’re building on and what we’re trying to play with,” he said.

“So the delta is here and it manifests itself just under the surface, and many areas including up Carrs Dr, it manifests itself in a very big lake called Lake Wooloweyah and all sorts of other channels and waterways around the place and north up the back of Iluka.

“And so the delta responds not only riverine pressure but also the delta responds to ocean pressures.

“In some ways, it’s sort

Mr Cousins said the amount of fll that had been dumped on the West Yamba foodplain had changed water fows in the region.

“In the delta with it being charged, it’s like a ship in the water,” he said.

So as soon as you put fll onto it, that water that’s in the ground wants to go somewhere else and eventually, the water will rise around the fll.

“And the more fll you brought in, the more you try and play around with the dynamics of the delta, and the delta tries to dissipate itself in another way and often it directs water into other

knowledge of foods on a catchment-wide scale is necessary”.

“Now, that particularly applies to us because of what I’ve said with the delta and the dynamics.

“If it’s a straight river just going out to the ocean then it’s another thing but we’re in a very unusual place.”

Mr Cousins said insurance companies had already noted these effects.

He said a recent ABC current affairs show, the 730 Report, revealed houses in Yamba would have a 50% to 80% chance to be uninsurable by 2030.

“Uninsurable being insurance not offered –and I know a case of that already – or insurance being prohibitive with one place just being offered one at $1,192 a week insurance on quite a meagre, aged dwelling.

“The other part of that is that the banks who were seen by this report will probably start not lending as another control, but however, we don’t want to get to that. Surely were a more educated society than that.”

Mr Cousins also noted the rain and fooding in 2022 were not extraordinary and when a major event occurred, the situation would be dire.

food height of 1.85m maximum for the 1% AEP, which is the new version, the same 1%, 1 in 100.

“And when we had it in 2013, it clearly recorded 2.51.”

“The basis on which we’re handling this movement in this very unusual place is giving great concern.

“The independent food inquiry of 2022 said quote, “using the 1% AEP calculation for food planning level for food planning purposes in NSW is inadequate, especially in the light of changing rainfall patterns and to understand rises for special major fooding events

Other residents to give evidence were Yamba Community Action Network members Bob Cairns and Lynne Cairns, Valley Watch members Graeme Granleese and Helen Tyas Tungal and a representative of residents at Grevillea Waters Retirement Village, David Robinson.

A lawyer representing the developers was invited to question witnesses after their submission, but didn’t do so.

After hearing from the residents, the court went into confdential session with representatives from the developers.

The matter is scheduled to be back in court again on July 17.

The Clarence River catchment is the largest river catchment on the Australian east coast.

Ballina gets ‘beefed’ up with new pie shop in town

By Samantha Elley

If you’ve been wondering about the new store on River Street in Ballina, wonder no further.

Beefy’s Pies have made their way down from the Sunshine Coast ready to fll the bellies of Northern Rivers locals.

These award winning pies have crossed the border, opening its frst NSW store at 166-172 River Street, Ballina.

“We’re excited to receive a warm welcome from the Ballina and Northern Rivers community so far and can’t wait to have everyone in store to taste the Beefy’s difference,” says Jason Lyons, General Manager – Operations at Beefy’s.

“Beefy’s will bring its full range of awardwining pies, sausage rolls, sweets and coffee to the Northern Rivers community, making it a go-to destination for travellers and locals alike.

“Our new Ballina team can’t wait to get to know everyone by name, pie and coffee order. Our opening weekend is the best way to kick this off, but we’ll be teaming up with the local community to support businesses, events and groups in the future with our Pie Drives and

fundraising events.”

While the store opened its doors on Friday, 28th June, the offcial Beefy’s Ballina community launch is Friday 12th to Sunday 14th July

Saturday 13 July, 9.30am-2pm

with one-weekend only deals and children’s entertainment on offer.

Ballina is Beefy’s 10th store and the frst in in New South Wales. It joins locations across South-East Queensland including Gympie, Traveston, Maroochydore, Buderim, Kawana, Aussie World, Glasshouse, Mango Hill and Ningi.

Northern Rivers Youth Orchestra 2024 Concert at Whitebrook Theatre

Prepare to be enchanted by captivating melodies, powerful rhythms, and awe-inspiring performances as the highly acclaimed Northern Rivers Youth Orchestra takes centre stage once again. The concert will be held at the Whitebrook Theatre, Southern Cross University, on Thursday, July 11th, at 6:30 PM. This eagerly awaited event promises an unforgettable evening of musical brilliance, showcasing the extraordinary talent of our region’s young musicians. This year, we are thrilled to be joined by talented musicians from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music!

Under the expert direction of esteemed guest conductor Patrick Brennan from the Central Coast Conservatorium, along with sectional leaders from the Northern Rivers Conservatorium, the Northern Rivers Youth Orchestra will present a diverse repertoire. The performance will feature classical masterpieces, contemporary flm

have honed their skills and developed a deeper understanding of the dynamics and teamwork of an orchestra.

scores, and stunning arrangements of popular favourites. Audiences can look forward to works by John Williams, Hans Zimmer, James Newton Howard,

Telemann, Grieg, and Adele, as well as iconic

work and dedication of these young

provided by parents, teachers, and the wider

themes from TV and movies, including Star Wars and Batman.

This concert is a testament to the hard

musicians, showcasing their skill and passion for music. It also highlights the support and encouragement

community. Through tireless rehearsals and workshops over the past three days, these committed individuals

The Whitebrook Theatre provides the perfect backdrop for this mesmerizing musical journey. As the orchestra takes the stage, the theatre will come alive with a symphony of sound, leaving the audience in awe of the power of music. This concert not only offers a chance to witness the incredible skill of these budding musicians but also demonstrates the transformative impact of music education on young lives. The Northern Rivers Conservatorium, the driving force behind the NRYO, offers students a nurturing and supportive environment to develop their craft and cultivate a lifelong love for music. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the Northern Rivers Youth Orchestra in action! To stay updated on more great events, follow us on Facebook, check our website, or subscribe to our mailing list.

The Lismore Regional Gallery pop-up space has closed its doors as Lismore City Council gears up to reopen the fully restored gallery at 11 Rural Street in the coming months.

Operating from January 2023 to May 2024, the pop-up space showcased 16 exhibitions by regional artists, supported by the Australian Government through Creative Australia and the NSW Government through Create NSW. In the aftermath of the 2022 disaster, the Gallery engaged over 290 artists, creatives, and arts workers, utilizing fnite resources to work out of temporary and unconventional spaces both outdoors and offsite at other galleries.

Despite these challenges, the Gallery successfully reached

Pop-up Closes as Attention Shifts to Reopening Lismore Regional Gallery

over 24,751 visitors and participants through 215+ programs, including exhibitions, up-late events, recovery programs, talk series, outdoor installations, and activities catering to all generations in a city recovering from a natural disaster.

Following extensive restoration efforts post-

includes a facelift for the Quad, which links the Gallery to the Lismore Library and Northern Rivers Conservatorium. Upgrades to landscaping, soil drainage, pathways, and seating will make the Quad a safer and more enjoyable gathering place for arts and culture in the heart of Lismore.

The Gallery will reopen with a full exhibition program across its fve newly restored spaces, alongside events and activities both inside and outside the Quad.

2022 natural disaster, the Lismore Regional Gallery is set to reopen this spring, bolstered by $1.675 million in recovery funding from the NSW State and Australian Governments.

Gallery Director Ashleigh Ralph highlighted that the Gallery’s rich history has been preserved in the

Lismore Quadrangle (the Quad), with enhanced infrastructure thanks to government funding.

“The Gallery has long been a cherished community space, and its reopening will not only improve the functionality and appeal of the reception and artist studio, but it will also provide exciting opportunities for artists and designers to showcase their work in the gallery shop,” Ralph said.

Specifc dates for these events will be announced soon.

Visitors can look forward to a new café, soon available for lease, and various multi-functional spaces within the Gallery for creative activities.

The restoration also

Every dollar spent on the arts in NSW is estimated to generate $1.88 for the economy.

To stay updated on the grand reopening plans, subscribe to the Gallery’s email list via their website: lismoregallery. org.

The Gallery will re-open with a full exhibition program in the fve newly restored gallery spaces, plus events and activities inside and outside the Quad.

NSW TAFE Byron Bay Grads Screen Best Work

By Robert Heyward

The flm and television industry in New South Wales, dubbed “Aussiewood,” is booming, with the latest statistics showing a contribution of over $820 million to the national economy—a 20% increase from the previous year. With half of this record-breaking spending occurring in New South Wales, the Northern Rivers region is emerging as a key hub for both Australian and international productions.

Eight graduates from the TAFE NSW Byron Bay Connected Learning Centre’s Certifcate III in Screen and Media are ready to step into their careers, showcasing their work at a free public screening on 4 July.

Lisa O’Meara, Chief Executive Offcer of Screenworks, emphasized the importance of these graduates to the industry.

“The Screen and Media

education that TAFE NSW provides plays a critical role in building the capacity of the screen industry in this region. Screenworks regularly engages with TAFE graduates who get involved in the programs we provide,” Ms. O’Meara said.

For graduating student Carl West, 41, the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the music industry led him to explore new avenues, adding screen and media skills to his repertoire. “This course has been the perfect

introduction to flm. I had some experience from creating music videos with my record label, but now I have the skills to bring my ideas to life,” Mr. West said. “The quality of this course has exceeded my expectations. The equipment is amazing, and the teachers are all accomplished flmmakers. I’m sad to be fnishing but excited to use these new skills in my music and hopefully achieve my dream to move into feature flms and documentaries.”

Zye Chartorisky,

following in his flmmaker father’s footsteps, is enrolling in the Certifcate IV to further build his experience behind the camera for his own flm company. “Doing the Certifcate III in Screen and Media has helped me refresh and grow my technical skills. I’ve been able to work on short flms and challenge myself. My teachers’ connections to the industry have provided crucial guidance,” he said.

Local flm industry heavyweights have

Don’t

been invited to view the work of Carl and Zye, along with the general public, at the frst public showcase of all the Certifcate III graduating students’ flms. The event will take place on Thursday, 4 July at the Byron Bay Connected Learning Centre, where students will introduce their flms before the screening.

“Public screenings of their flm projects provide our students with invaluable experience to showcase the video skills they have learned at TAFE NSW and have

them appreciated by an audience,” said TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Creative Arts, Rohan Langford. “With Byron Bay at the hub of the booming local flm industry, this screening provides our students with exposure to industry connections who can help them start their careers.”

Mr. Langford added, “This screening offers both a great night of entertainment and a fantastic learning experience for students, who can gauge audience reactions to their flm projects. It’s also a great celebration of the hard work they have put in this year. This is a perfect time to get into the Australian flm and video industries, with identifed skills shortages in many areas of production. It’s testament to our handson, industry-led training that so many TAFE NSW graduates are now working in the Screen & Media industry.”

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80 years on French village keeps memory of two

By Tim Howard

Flight Sergeants Arthur Hedley Jenkins and William Paul might be names only a few in their home town of Grafton would know, but in a tiny French village they are among a group of 15 aircrew remembered every year.

Next week the population of Lignieresde-Touraine, a village in France near Tours, will gather in their communal cemetery for the 80th anniversary of a terrible night when two fully bomb laden Avro Lancaster bombers collided over the village, bursting into fames and exploding on contact with the ground.

All 15 airmen died in the crash which contemporary Lignierois rushing from their beds described as a “…sight like the apocalypse, spread over several square kilometres. When dawn broke the last bombs were still exploding.”

This year the niece of Flt Sgt Paul, Alstonville woman Colette Dalton, will join the villagers on July 16.

And the niece of Flt Sgt Jenkins, Grafton woman Helen Huxley, has organised for Clarence Valley Mayor Peter Johnstone to send a letter to the mayor of Lignieres, thanking the people for their kindness.

The two men, Bill Paul from South Grafton and Hedley Jenkins from Southgate, met at Grafton High School and became great mates.

In an article she wrote

about her uncle and his mate for the Clarence River Historical Society, Mrs Huxley recalled how the two young men had been excited to fy in the same plane.

In 1943, aged just 19, the pair enlisted, determined to do their bit for the war effort.

“Flying on their 13th mission with the 467 Squadron, the two were overjoyed to be members of the same air crew.

“They were close friends, attending Grafton High together and now making a contribution to the war effort on behalf of the Jenkins family in Southgate and the Paul family from South Grafton.

“Photographs in RAAF uniform suggest young, energetic men, looking forward to a wonderful life post-war.

“Airgraphs, kept by the families, mention

concern for their friends in other avenues of the war and record small glimpses of their lives.

“Writing to his brother Ron in March 1944, Hedley commented on the snow in England –obviously no longer a novelty to him.

“Apart from the cold, it created a great deal of work clearing the runways ‘…and one gets a little cold after a while. My sympathy is all for the Russians.’

“There were also bright spots: in June 1944, Bill wrote to his father, about looking forward to nine day’s leave with ‘Jenks’ at Rose Ockenden’s family home.

“Referring to a previous leave spent with the family, he enthused ‘…and gee did we have a swell time or not’.”

The two men were crew members aboard Lancaster ME 851 in 467 Squadron RAAF.

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to collect the bodies and bury them, but they insisted there was to be no mourning or signs of grief,” Mrs Huxley said.

The grief may have been hidden on the night but for decades the sadness from that time lived on.l

“Colette told me that in the last one or two commemoration ceremonies she’s been to, there was a man by himself who was just sobbing his heart out,” she said.

“Someone explained to her he had been a young boy on the night that collision occurred.

they had fown on raids covering the D-Day landings at Normandy and on July 15 they were one of 220 bombers targeting the marshalling yards near the French city of Nevers.

With 10 1000lb and three 500lb bombs aboard they took off from RAF Waddington at 10.19pm on July 15.

Fltr Sgt Paul was a wireless operator and air gunner and Flt Sgt Jenkins was the plane’s tail gunner.

At about 3am July 16, ME 851 collided with Lancaster ME807 of RAF No. 207 Squadron above Lignières-deTouraine. Both aircraft burst into fame and crashed to the ground, where their bomb loads exploded.

The villagers insisted on the burial of the men, which the occupying Germans allowed, with some conditions.

“They were allowed

“He had been one of the people allowed to go and gather what were

The article in the local newspaper recording when the two men were declared missing in action.

A Lancaster B.I (R5868) S for Sugar which few with the same unit in which Flt Sgts Bill Paul and Hedley Jenkins served, 467 Squadron RAAF. S for Sugar completed 137 sorties while with No. 83 Squadron and No. 467 Squadron. In May 1944 it reached the 100 sortie milestone, with a raid on Flensburg Harbour, Germany. On April 23 1945 it few its last operational sortie. This aircraft is on display at the Royal Air Force Museum, London.

Flight Sergeant Arthur Hedley Jenkins.

Flight Sergeant Bill Paul

Grafton airmen alive

basically body parts.

“I think they were told not to talked about how bodies were, it’s all a bit gruesome to think about but so he was involved in that.”

“It was very much alive in the older villagers minds that that particular story and is such a big part of their heritage.”

plaque under the photo and they stuck in her memory.

“Fast forward and my husband Ian and I have visited Lignieres several times, locating Hedley and Bill’s graves and, by a stroke of wonderful luck, meeting a local lady, Mme

Joseyane Casez, who

in connecting the descendants of the air crews.

“She was delighted to inform us that Colette Dalton, a niece of Bill, lives ‘down the road’ in Alstonville.

“Colette and her family have made many pilgrimages to Lignieres and are keenly interested in preserving the story.”

“Through Lillian, we met her circle of friends, particularly ones that could speak some English,” she saiid.

“And you know, we would have been in people’s homes to have dinners and being given gifts and just been really treated like we were royalty.”

While thrilled at the reception, the motivation behind it puzzled her until she questioned a French guide on the Normandy battlefeld sites about it.

“I said we’re really happy that they’re grateful that a member of our family died to help them but can’t expect people to be grateful for centuries kind of thing,” Mrs Huxley said.

Creating value for your business through kindness

By Samantha Elley

To put the words ‘Kind’ and ‘Business’ together in a title may seem like an anomaly for some, but that is what frst time Byron Bay author, Dr David Cooke, has done with his new publication.

‘Kind Business: Values Create Value’ is to be launched this week at The Book Room Byron

included engaging the people in his organisation and getting their feedback on ideas for the business.

“I found it really helped our organisation to thrive,” he said.

the right thing to do, and lo and behold, we fourished,” he said.

When Dr Cooke retired, he knew he had to write a book on his experiences and Kind Business was born.

Mrs Huxley said she had grown up wondering about the “great sadness surrounding the very formal photograph of a young man in uniform displayed on the lounge room wall.”

She was also intrigued by the foreign names inscribed on a metal

collects information and photos about the two air crews from visiting relatives,” she said.

“Another great lady, Mme Lilliane Marolleau, who mercifully speaks English, adores befriending Australians and takes a special interest

“He said you don’t understand because in Australia, you’ve never lived under occupation.

“So you cannot understand our continuing gratitude because members of your family have died to help us.

“So that was quite an interesting conversation to have.”

“I spent 35 years in the corporate world and don’t think I was a natural ft,” said Dr Cooke.

“So, when I found myself in the last eight years as CEO of a Japanese tech company, I knew I could put my stamp on my corner of the corporate sector and do things a little bit differently.”

Dr Cooke’s way of doing things differently

“We are a commoditised sector of the technology industry, selling printing and scanning hardware, and while there are many companies out there selling the same products, we were known as a good company, as we treated our people and our customers kindly.”

What Dr Cooke saw was his business grew and ‘defed gravity’ in what has essentially become a declining industry when it comes to printing.

“We just engaged with people and treated our customers honestly and openly, as it seemed

“If you design your business to be responsible, treat people and the community well and honestly, you will fnd commercial value in your business,” said Dr Cooke.

This book is a must read for entrepreneurs, emerging leaders and business executives and can be purchased online or through local bookstores for $29.95.

The book is to be launched at The Book Room Byron, 27 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay on 11th July, 6pm. Bookings can be made at www. thebookroomatbyron. com

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Grafton woman Helen Huxley, left and Alstonville’s Colette Dalton have helped keep alive the memory of two uncles Hedley Jenkins and Bill Paul, from Grafton, who were killed when their plane crashed during a bombing raid in World War 2

Diary of a Flood Survivor

I was very pleased to receive a media update on the programs run by the NSW Reconstruction Authority to house raise and retroft food damaged homes, saying they have started.

We registered with them many, many months ago and this week we have booked an appointment to have a one-on-one meeting with a representative from the authority to fnd out what happens next.

According to the information sent out, eligible homeowners will be granted up to $50,000 for a retroft and $100,000 for a home raise with a dollarfor-dollar contribution between the authority and the homeowner.

So, one of the questions I will be asking is, if we have $20,000, does that

mean the Reconstruction Authority will only contribute $20,000? Do we need to have $50,000 to get the full beneft?

If this is the case, then we will be saving our pennies as much as possible to get as much done on the downstairs section of our house, which still stands wallless and ceiling-less, amongst other updates needed.

One way that has been helping, especially as we have a full house, with both sons returning to live with us for a short while, is rediscovering

our local hub’s community pantry.

It gives us a chance to reduce our grocery bill, and the bonus is the volunteers are so friendly and helpful.

If you have a community food pantry near you and you haven’t used them for a while, or at all, I would encourage you to duck down there and see how they can help.

There are a number of services that may be of beneft to you, so don’t be shy, they are there to help.

Stand for your community

This September, the NSW Government is callin on people from all backgrounds to stand for election to their local council. NSW councils need to represent diverse communities. Councils play a vital role in their communities and councillors’ decisions affect your daily life. You could help make life better in your community. No formal qualifcations are required and training is available for elected councillors.

Saffn

announces $210,000 in funding

to improve Crown Reserves

LISMORE MP Janelle Saffn today (Wednesday, 3 July) announced over $210,000 in grants to maintain and upgrade Crown land reserves and community facilities across the Electorate of Lismore.

“It’s terrifc that funding has been allocated to support local reserves, including replacement of Kyogle Showground’s poultry equipment storage shed, remediation of food prone campsites at Tyalgum Recreation and Flora Reserve, rebuilding the dilapidated car park at Uki Public Hall, and protecting our natural environment from noxious weeds in Byrangery Grass Reserve, south of Goonengerry,” Ms Saffn said. “Crown reserves support community health and well-being by providing public land for recreation, for community-focused organisations and facilities, and to protect the environment.”

The NSW Government grants are being provided by Crown Lands in the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure from

the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund. Lismore Electorate projects being funded include:

• $105,965 to replace the poultry equipment storage shed and remove asbestos at Kyogle Showground. The current timber structure was built in the 1930s and has deteriorated due to exposure and termite damage. The new storage shed will have better access and height clearance for storage.

• $65,450 to remediate food prone campsites at Tyalgum Recreation and Flora Reserve. Work will include installation of stormwater drainage to mitigate the risk of low-lying campsite areas becoming waterlogged and inaccessible. The work will ensure more people will be able to use the camping facilities all year round.

• $24,545 to build a new car park at Uki Public Hall in Uki.

The new car park will increase car capacity and boost visitor safety.

• $14,960 to conduct critical weed management work to support natural regeneration of native bushland at Byrangery Grass Reserve. The work will remove noxious weeds including Camphor Laurel, Lantana and Cestrum and will support conservation initiatives for threatened species, including the Glossy Black Cockatoo.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said: “There are thousands of Crown land reserves across the state managed by Crown Lands, volunteer community boards and local councils.

“These grants in the Lismore Electorate are part of $14.578 million being offered by the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund statewide to support 144 projects,” Minister Kamper said.

David and Carmel Hyde Celebrate 60th Wedding Anniversary

Local Woodburn identities David and Carmel Hyde recently celebrated their 60th Diamond wedding anniversary. The couple was surrounded by their sons, Dennis and Todd, their families, friends, and extended family members. They also received congratulatory letters from the King and Queen, the Prime Minister, and other dignitaries.

Nominations open on 5 August and close 14 August 2024. Local government elections are on 14 September 2024.

If you or someone you know would make a great councillor, visit the O fce o Local Government’s website for more information.

Both David and Carmel, who have turned 80 in the past three years, are well-known in their community. Carmel has been particularly recognized for her extensive volunteer efforts, including her work during the devastating 2022 foods that impacted them personally.

The Hydes continue to live in the home

where David was raised, a house built by his father. Over the years, they have experienced numerous foods, but none as severe as the one in 2022, which rose 2.5 meters higher than any previous food.

Despite losing almost everything, they rebuilt their home without insurance, relying on the love and support of their family and their enduring commitment to each other.

By Tim Howard

Ghosts out for revenge

The Grafton Ghosts face their toughest assignment of the season to date, taking on unbeaten competition leaders the Nambucca Roosters on the road.

Earlier this season the Roosters hammered an admittedly understrength Ghosts outft 62-12 in front of a stunned home crowd at Frank McGuren Field.

While the Ghosts are on equal second spot on the table with Woolgoolga their dismal for and against record could not be more different to the front runners.

Nambucca has piled on the points this season with 328 and unsurprisingly has been miserly in defence, conceding just 106.

The Ghosts are in negative territory on F&A scoring 160, but conceding 196.

Fortunately the Ghosts form has improved since then including a clinical despatch of Macksville at home and tighter win over at the favoured Sawtell outft at their last outing.

Key to the improved performance has been moving new recruit Jordan Gallagher into the six jumper.

He and new halfback Cooper Woods have introduced a sense of stability into their play, which has cut the error rate which had crippled

the Ghosts earlier in the season.

Woods has been able to unleash his dangerous running game while Gallaghers extensive range in his kicking game has kept defences guessing.

Saturday’s game against Nambucca will be the sternest test of their form revival.

Always a dangerous team in attack, the Roosters have introduced more rigour into the play with sacrifcing too much attacking fair.

At Frank McGuren on June 8 they showed exactly how dangerous they could be, scoring four of the 11 tries for the afternoon from 70m out or further.

The other key to beating the Roosters is to limit the kicking game of halfback Tyrone RobertsDavis.

Possessing one of the biggest boots in the game, Roberts-Davis can punish teams with raking 40-20s or put up bombs

that come down bearing frequent fyer tickets.

And with his bulk and pace he’s no slouch with the ball in hand either.

His combination with fve-eight Tyreece Sines is another threat to the Ghosts.

Ghosts captain coach Dylan Colette has been leading from the front all season, scoring enough tries and doing a mountain of work in defence.

Second rower Jake Martin has also been among the tries this season and will be looking for big game, with his wide running.

Up front Adam Slater, Oliver Percy and Clay Watters Campbell have been doing the tough yards in defence and taking the ball up.

The South Grafton Rebels face a similarly tough task on Sunday, although they have the beneft of hosting the Sawtell Panthers on their home track, McKittrick Park.

Forced to play away from home for most of the early games of the season and enduring a string of close losses, the Rebels showed their best form of the season when they made a belated return to McKittrick Park against Macksville.

The Rebels were ruthless in piling on 40 points against Macksville and will need a similar effort if they are to keep their slim semi-fnal hopes alive.

The conversion of powerhouse centre Nick McGrady to halfback seems to be just about complete and his hat trick of tries against the Sea Eagles showed he will be a threat for the rest of the season.

There has been some costly lapses of their discipline this season, which has been behind some of the poor results.

Turning this around will be what turns the Rebels into a danger team for the remainder of the season.

NORTHERN RIVERS LOCALS URGED TO FUTURE PROOF THEIR CAREERS AT TAFE NSW IN SEMESTER

Locals from the Northern Rivers are future-proofng their careers by upskilling in priority industries with TAFE NSW, including Information Technology.

The Australian Computer Society (ACS) Digital Pulse 2023 forecasts that 1.8 million new tech skills will be needed by 2030, an increase of 1.3 million on today’s levels. Australia will need 445,000 more technology skilled workers by 2030 to be competitive with international economies.

Projections produced by Victoria University for Jobs and Skills Australia show that digital and technology jobs will grow by 21 per cent by 2033.

the role, and various avenues to pursue for your career, depending on where your interests lie – whether that’s in support work or cyber security.”

“As a severe dyslexic, I was often anxious about what the future held for me. But with hard work, and the support of my teachers at TAFE NSW, I am now enjoying an incredible career, which provides both job security for my family, and a rewarding experience each day.”

TAFE NSW Chief Delivery Offcer, Janet Schorer said TAFE NSW is committed to delivering a pipeline of skilled workers to meet the growing demand in the Northern Rivers region.

TAFE NSW Grafton graduate Liam Rodgers began his studies with TAFE NSW as a TVET student, with a Certifcate III Information Technology, and worked his way towards graduating an Advanced Diploma in Information Technology. He initially landed a job working for a national company doing internal IT support, and now works for the NSW Government, while also working at TAFE NSW part time to support students studying IT.

Mr Rodgers says given most companies across the world rely on technology to conduct their business, the opportunities in the industry are endless.

“It was my passion for computers that initially drew me to this career, but it is the ever-changing nature of the industry that has kept me interested and advancing my studies,” he said.

“The systems and process are always evolving and updating, and I enjoy the constant opportunities to learn more and develop my skills. There are so many aspects to

“Liam is an example of the high-quality graduates TAFE NSW is training to meet skills demand now and into the future.

“Over the next 10 years, more than 9 out of 10 new jobs will require post-secondary qualifcations. TAFE NSW is crucial not only for the future of the Northern Rivers regional economy but also for providing people with skills for current and future job markets.

“Semester 2 is about to start, making it the perfect time to explore the range of courses at your local TAFE NSW campus. Whether you prefer online, face-toface, or teacher-led virtual classrooms, we have study options to suit your needs,” Ms Schorer said.

The Ghosts look to shut down a Nambucca attack during a semi-fnal match last year at Frank McGuren Field.

Liam Rodgers

Hunter Chef Brings Home Apprentice of the Year at TAFE NSW Excellence Awards

TAFE NSW Grafton

Scott Wright (pictured), a 21-year-old Certifcate III Commercial Cookery student, has been honoured with the Apprentice of the Year award at the TAFE NSW Excellence Awards. This recognition highlights his exceptional achievements, strong work ethic, and resilience in the face of adversity.

The TAFE NSW Excellence Awards celebrate students who demonstrate determination, resilience, and leadership. They identify those who achieve outstanding academic results, signifcantly contribute to their professions, and exhibit exceptional personal qualities.

Scott Wright began his culinary journey washing dishes in a local restaurant in his hometown of Yamba. Now, he works as an apprentice chef at the Blaxland Inn in Pokolbin. His dedication has earned him a place as a fnalist in the Fonterra Proud to be a Chef program and a fnalist for the Clarence Valley Citizen’s of the Year Young Person of the Year award.

Scott’s passion for hospitality has always been clear, but his studies at TAFE NSW have helped him fnd his path and realize his potential. “I have always known I wanted to work in restaurants. I enjoy the atmosphere and helping people celebrate special occasions,

especially through food,” Scott said. “Taking on an apprenticeship and studying at TAFE NSW has been a huge stepping stone for me,

not just in my career, but also in learning more about myself and what I am capable of.

My teacher, Bernadette, has supported me and

Sydney Presentation Ceremony

encouraged me to push myself.”

Scott sees his training as a gateway to global opportunities. “Learning my trade has opened doors for me. As a chef, I can travel the world and learn new skills from experts in many culinary styles and techniques.

It’s an incredible industry to be involved in, and I look forward to seeing where my qualifcations take me.”

TAFE NSW Commercial Cookery Teacher Bernadette Ryan praised Scott’s dedication and success.

“Scott is proof that if you give it your absolute best and push through diffcult times, you can achieve anything,” she said.

“His journey is not just about becoming a skilled

chef, but also about overcoming challenges with a positive attitude, contributing to his community, and aspiring to reach new heights in his chosen profession. He never takes days off; he is incredibly committed.”

Bernadette added, “His story is an inspiration to all, and he is truly deserving of this recognition. It has been an absolute pleasure to watch Scott grow in both his skills and his confdence. I cannot wait to see what he achieves.”

Scott Wright’s achievements underscore the importance of dedication and resilience in pursuing one’s passions, making him a role model for aspiring chefs and students alike.

for Byron Bay High School Sharemarket Game Winners

History was made in the ASX Schools

Sharemarket Game when Byron Bay High School students won all of the national prizes for the top three places, as well as the prize for frst in NSW. Byron Bay High School’s results were impressive- four in the top fve traders, six in the top ten, 20 in top 100 overall and 31 in the top 100 in NSW.

History was also made when Byron Bay High

School received its very own awards presentation at the Stock Exchange Centre in Sydney.

Clay (National First Place Prize Winner) and Oscar (National Second Place Prize Winner), as well as Mr Stevenson and Mr Lee were able to attend the ceremony in Sydney and were greeted by the Byron Bay High School name and logo on the big ASX screens, alongside the other market data.

The ASX provided its market experts to answer all of the questions asked by the Byron Bay High School party and to give a deeper insight into the market’s operations.

A formal presentation ceremony was held, where both Clay and Oscar were presented with their certifcates, an ASX offcial bag and a number of other prizes. Beau, the third prize recipient for our

school, was also sent his certifcate and prizes. Mr Stevenson and Mr Lee were not forgotten and were given special ASX cups.

One of the most exciting aspects of the presentation was that all of the recipients were given the chance to ring the ASX market bell, an honour only given to a select group of people. In addition, the Byron Bay High School party was provided

with a tour of the ASX computer facility, where we marvelled at the technology behind the operation of Australia’s fnancial markets.

For the students the Sydney ASX Schools Sharemarket Game was the experience of a lifetime and for Mr Stevenson, a long time coach of students in

the Game, it was the fulflment of a twenty year aspirations to have an awards ceremony for his students at the ASX in Sydney. This groundbreaking achievement has cemented Byron Bay High School as being among the national leaders in providing fnancial markets literacy for its students.

UPCOMING LOCAL RICHMOND VALLEY COUNCIL ELECTIONS

LOWER RIVER REPRESENTATION

Author; Robert Hayes

Ph 0415620220

The Mid Richmond area of The Richmond Valley Council [RVC] over the years has had varied Councillor representation.

The NSW Local Government elections are

coming up on Saturday 14th September 2024 and I would like to see the Mid Richmond area fairly represented once again I have been fortunate to be one of the local representatives for the past 12 years. During this time on council the councillors have largely worked well together, and we have been able to secure

Knox; Independent

Riley’s Hill] Tracey moved to Broadwater in 1994 and has owned and run the Sunrise Caravan Park at Broadwater with her husband Craig and their family for the past 30 years. Tracey has previously been involved with the Woodburn Wolves Football Club over the past 25 years while her husband and sons played football, and was Treasurer for the club for a 5-year period during that time. Also, a keen photographer. Tracey also played touch football at Evans head for a period of approximately 15 years. Tracey was actively involved, after the 2022 food, with having the “Tinnie Memorial” placed in the Broadwater Community Park to honour the local Tinnie Hero’s. Tracey would like to see more funding spent on the Broadwater and Riley’s Hill communities, and supports the rebuilding of the Broadwater Public School. Tracey has supported our ticket for the last 12 years and has been our regular contact for the Broadwater Community and this year has decided to get involved to support a voice on Local Government for Broadwater and the surrounding areas.

Neale Genge; [Evans Head / Casino]

A CEO with vast experience in the Services club industry, Neale lives in Casino and has recently been appointed CEO of Club Evans/ Evans Head Woodburn RSL Club. Neale has spent 10 years at the Casino RSM Club and his knowledge of that part of the community oozes with information. Neale has shown his support for the local RVC community by nominating for the last 2 council elections, and previously serving as President of the Casino Chamber of Commerce and is our link between the two ends of the vast RVC area. Neale believes the current council is a strong community-based group. Neale would like to see newly elected councillors as grass roots community-based members and not headed by large business organisations with political agendas, Neale would like to see the entire RVC area remain connected.

a reasonable amount of funding for projects in the Lower River Area, which has been rewarding. Leading up to the election, possible candidates from this area get involved and nominate as a candidate or a group. When more than one group runs for election from the lower River Area [ which has happened in

the past] it divides the local votes and makes it very hard for anyone from this area to get elected, and we could end up with no representation. For this reason, we are releasing our group of six non-political, candidates, in the hope that if there are other candidates out there that want to get involved to secure a local voice on

Hayes; Independent

Has been a local councillor from 2012 to now and would like to gain another 4-year term to complete existing projects, and to make sure that RVC continue with funding applications for more projects and infrastructure improvements in the Mid Richmond Area. The foods in 2022 interrupted council’s vision and planning for our area. A new direction is being set with the pending fnalisation of place plans for the entire Richmond Valley Council area. Robert believes local representation is required to guide the Mid Richmond and the whole of the RVC with funding and the implementation of these plans. One of my main goals for the next four years would be to level out business water charges across the entire RVC area, so that other water users are not subsidising large businesses.

Deb is a sitting councillor from Coraki and was elected on a Casino based Ticket in 2021, she now has 3 years’ experience and is doing a great job representing our area. Debbie has resided in Coraki for 7 years, a small land holder running cattle. When moving to Coraki, she wanted to be involved in our community and surrounds so she joined the CWA (Country Women’s Association, the UHA (United Hospital Auxiliary), got involved with the Coraki Museum, the Coraki Uniting Church, and was the Business Chamber President for 3 years. Also assisted with community events such as Macca the radio announcer when he came to Coraki, Christmas Tree Light Ups, and market days. Whilst being active in our communities, and listening to people’s issues, she understands the need for representation on the Richmond Valley Council. Her vision for the Lower area of the Richmond Valley, is promote growth in our regions, encourage tourism and to be the community’s voice

the RVC that they reach out and make contact.

From a strategic point of view, groups from Casino area use lower river candidates at lower positions on their ticket which pull votes from this area to the number 1 & 2 on their ticket with the lower river candidates often missing out. [They often do not realise they

have very little chance of being elected]

The ticket we are running has a mix of local business people, some with prior council experience and some new candidates who are prominent members of the lower River Community with connections throughout the broader community.

Her passion lies with her community, long-term success for small businesses and the development of new events and initiatives that will see the Richmond Valley continue to fourish and thrive for emerging generations of young families. Previously the President of the Evans Head Business and Community Chamber, Rachel contributed to the launch of the Evans Head Tourist Guide, supported, and helped facilitate large events and functions as an enthusiastic advocate for residents and business owners alike. Inspired by her hope to see her own children grow up in a vibrant and sustainable community, Rachel will act as a voice to council; Bringing fresh ideas and concepts forward for consideration, supporting the continued invigoration of regional tourism and focusing wholeheartedly on the maintenance and growth of the family friendly atmosphere that the Richmond Valley prides itself on.

[

Daniel is a husband and father of three children, Hayden (16), Amelia (13), Kai (10). He enjoys surfng, fshing, and spending time with his family. He has been the owner / operator of the Rod N Reel Hotel Woodburn for the past eighteen years, for ten years 2012-2021 he was a councillor on Richmond Valley Council. He is very passionate about the area in which he lives and works and enjoys being an advocate for the area. Daniel knows it is imperative that the lower rivers area have strong representative on council. Daniel’s business experience coupled with his previous experience on council places him in a unique position to be a strong advocate for the area possessing the ability to hold council accountable for the way in which they conduct their business. Daniel’s experience will be prominent throughout our campaign. His passion for local representation remains but his busy life only allows him to support us lower on the ticket

NOTE: This team will be sharing Preferences with a very experienced and proven Non-Political Casino-based group headed by current Mayor Robert MustowThe elected Councillors from the Mid Richmond over the past 2 terms have worked exceptionally well with the Mayor, the Existing Council, and our Local Members. To have a progressive and stable council for the whole of the RVC this combination will remain our priority Our Group fully support Robert Mustow’s nomination for the Mayors role for the next 4 years.

Tracey

[ Broadwater/

Debbie Mcgillan; Independent [Coraki and District]

Robert

[Evans Head / Woodburn]

Rachel Arthur; Independent [Evans Head]

Rachel Arthur is a small business owner and life-long local of Evans Head.

Daniel Simpson;

Evans Head/ Woodburn].

Tweed farmers encouraged to apply for $4,000 funding

Calling all local farmers! Tweed Shire Council is kicking off another round of the Sustainable Agriculture Small Grants Program, designed to encourage best practice and inspire environmental creativity in agricultural activities across our community.

Applications are now open from 1 July to 30 August for grants up to $4,000. Eligible

activities include trials and adoptions of improved farming practices.

Council’s Program Leader – Sustainable Agriculture Eli Szandala, said these grants are just one way Council is able to support farmers in their efforts to improve soil, waterway and natural area management.

“Given agriculture’s signifcant role in land

use and its pivotal contribution to the region’s economy, offering technical and fnancial support to farmers for projects focusing on sustainable agricultural practices is crucial,” Mr Szandala said.

“These practices are critical as we all strive to conserve our unique environment, respond to climate change and enhance the natural

resources on farms which are essential for their long-term viability.

“Last year we were pleasantly surprised by the number of innovative projects put forward by our farming community, and we hope to see farmers who want to be more sustainable but might need some support, to apply this year.”

Grants will be awarded to projects that showcase

innovation, effciency and environmental responsibility in agricultural production. These projects may include enhancements in soil health, water conservation and management and biodiversity conservation.

The grant program has been running since 2018 providing farmers with fnancial and technical support to initiate projects that improve the health of soils, waterways and biodiversity on local farms. The program complements other incentives including the River Health and Biodiversity Grant Programs also offered by Council.

Back Creek grazier Sherelle French utilised program funding to extend fencing around crucial environmental assets on her farm.

Initially focusing on cattle fences around dams, which signifcantly enhanced water quality and dam conditions, Ms French expanded her

efforts to protect other vulnerable areas from livestock impacts.

“We were able to fence our cattle out of some of the very last rainforest left in the area along the creek,” Ms French said.

“We couldn’t possibly have afforded this without the grant from Council’s Sustainable Agriculture Small Grant Program. Now this precious piece of riparian rainforest is free to grow, via natural regeneration and a little help from me.”

The Sustainable Agriculture Small Grants Program highlights Council’s commitment to working with the community to reduce our impact on the natural environment and adapt to climate change for a sustainable future.

For grant guidelines, details on previous projects, or more information, visit tweed. nsw.gov.au/agriculture or contact the Sustainable Agriculture Program Leader at 02 6670 2400.

Healthy Fire for Healthy Koala Habitat: Field Day Workshop

Koalas are a cherished symbol of Australia’s natural heritage, relying on healthy ecosystems to thrive. Historically, their habitats were maintained through the traditional use of fre, a practice that has been altered signifcantly since colonization. These changes have impacted the health of our eucalypt forests, which are vital for koalas.

To address this, Richmond Landcare Inc are excited to announce the ‘Healthy Fire for Healthy Koala Habitat’ Field Day, a hands-on workshop aimed at learning how we can restore the health of koala habitats through the traditional use of

fre. Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, 1st August

• Time: 10 am to 4 pm

• Location: Billen Cliffs, 265 Martin Rd. Larnook

Join us for this

practical workshop where participants will learn from Jagun Alliance, local experts in indigenous fre management. Attendees will gain insights into how First Nations People have used fre to rejuvenate open

forests, promoting the health of these critical ecosystems.

Workshop Highlights:

• Expert Talks: Hear from the Jagun Alliance about the signifcance and techniques of cultural burning.

• Site Visit: Tour a site

that was treated with fre last year

• Cultural Burn

Participation: If conditions are suitable, attendees will have the rare opportunity to participate in a cultural burn on Country,

experiencing frsthand the traditional methods of fre management. This feld day is an exceptional opportunity to reconnect with traditional land management practices and learn methods to restore the health and sustainability of our koala habitats.

Registration: Spaces for this event are limited.

To secure your spot, please register at https:// events.humanitix.com/ healthy-fre-for-healthykoala-habitat-feld-day

Let’s work together to restore and preserve the habitats that our koalas depend on. Join us for an educational and impactful day in the feld.

The latest round of Tweed Shire Council’s Sustainable Agriculture Small Grants Program is now open with applications being accepted until 30 August 2024.

New Driver Knowledge Test online launched for learner drivers

People wanting to get their learner licence will now have the option to take their Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) in the comfort of their home or anywhere with internet access with the launch of Transport for NSW’s Driver Knowledge Test online.

A commitment in the 2026 Road Safety Action Plan, the Driver Knowledge Test online has been developed by Transport for NSW in conjunction with Service NSW and comes with a host of benefts, including supporting a broader, deeper understanding of the road rules and safe driving practices.

Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary, Safety, Environment and Regulation Sally Webb said the new DKT online delivers a modern learning experience and an accessible path for learner drivers.

“We know that learning has changed over the years and this new digital, accessible and interactive product is a refection of how people learn today,”Ms Webb

said.

“It gives easier access to the test to people who are in regional or remote locations who may not live close to a Service NSW Centre and it also has text to speech functionality which makes the product accessible for people with low literacy or dyslexia.

“It provides a cost beneft because the test can be taken as many times as needed to pass and a fee of $55 is only paid when you come into the Service NSW Centre to apply for your learner licence and have your photo taken.”

“Most importantly, it is an engaging way for people to learn about the road rules and safe driving behaviour, which forms the foundation of how they drive once they are on the road,” Ms Webb said. Service NSW A/Executive Director Partnerships, Projects & Insights, Lauren Nagel, said the DKT online provides several other benefts.

“Service NSW is all about making it easier for the customer

to interact with Government and by simply offering the Driver Knowledge Test online, aspiring drivers can complete the course and test at a time and place with internet access that suits them,” Ms Nagel said.

“By going online, this means students don’t need to miss out on school or extra curricular activities to visit a Service Centre to complete the test. They can do this in the comfort of their own home and at any time. The Driver Knowledge Test online is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

“If customers are unsuccessful passing, learners won’t have the hassle of organising another visit to a Service Centre and trying to fnd a time that works with parents or guardians to drive them there, they can simply try again at home.”

“Within 12 months, we’re expecting about 200,000 customers to complete the DKT online so this will also free up our Service NSW team

members to dedicate their time to other critical transactions,” Ms Nagel said.

DKT online also allows young people to get a head start as it can be accessed at 15 years and 11 months. When it is passed, they can visit a Service NSW Centre on their 16th birthday to apply for their learner licence.

The DKT online will initially launch in English and Simplifed Chinese. Additional languages will be added in the future.

Similar products for learners have already had success in Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. The statewide launch in NSW comes after a successful 6-week pilot in metro and regional locations with 94 per cent of participants giving the product four or fve stars. To enrol in DKT online or for further information visit https://www.service. nsw.gov.au/transaction/ driver-knowledge-testonline

Evans Head Fishing Classic

This weekend sees the return of the annual Evans Head Fishing Classic on Friday 5 July. The premier fshing tournament, a thrilling catch and photograph event, features a diverse range of species in an array of categories, random draws and fantastic prizes to be won. The week-long extravaganza celebrates the art of fshing and promises competition, camaraderie and family-friendly entertainment. Held behind Club Evans RSL on the river, the event site will feature a vibrant food alley with classic eats food trucks, sponsor displays and a tank to show off some of the great catches. Experience the thrill of the Evans Head

Fishing Classic, luring anglers and nature enthusiasts alike to the shores of coastal Richmond Valley. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious traveller seeking an authentic experience, the Evans Head Fishing Classic offers an unforgettable blend of sport, relaxation, and community spirit, making it a must-visit event for adventurers of all ages

Find more information and enter the event here: www. evansheadfshing classic.com

Find dining options, attractions and things to do while you’re in town here: www. discoverrichmond valley.com.au

Happy 100th Birthday

Alice Bruce

Alice Bruce was born in Wingham. She moved to Cowongala and when she married Cyril moved to Rapville to open a bakery. Later they moved to Lismore and started Bruce’s bus service. Alice currently resides at the cedars nursing home. Her party was held at the Casino RSM club.

“

Leemo has views on just

‘COLD

I nd it great fun to in ict tricks & confusion upon ‘Mum Jane’ ‘cos she’s OLD & SUCH an easy target. (It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ back!) To-day was priceless. I told my buddies to hide behind me when I played my ‘Let’s Confuse the Old Woman’ Game on Mum. I’ll explain. ere are a set of scales in our bathroom. Every morning when she takes o her PJ’s before her shower, Mum hops on the scales, smiles or does frownies & looks at herself in the mirror making hmmmm questioning noises before getting in. is morning however, I got my buddie ‘Milo’ to tape one of Mum’s REALLY HEAVY shing sinkers to the top of my right paw. (It hurt at bit!) When she stood on the scales I sneakily put my weighted paw on them just behind her heels. When she checked her numbers on the scales an appalling shriek rang out! She checked the battery, replaced it, and hopped back on. Once again I snuk in & applied my ‘sinkered’ paw. OMG, you should have been there. Hysterical! ‘Milo’ ripped the sinker o my paw and we ran away & hid as most rude language oated from the bathroom. It was just so much fun! Mum stomped out & informed me ‘Leemo, we are not eating ANY food to-day, and ‘probly not tomorrow either gottit?’ Crikey, I’ll address this quick smart!. ‘A cup of black tea, no sugar or milk then dear Mumsie? (She scowled!) What are you so upset about anyhow Mum?’ She shouted.

about anything”

‘Leems, I’ve put on 2kgs OVERNIGHT! I did NOT even have pudding so we’re on a diet; as my hair is going grey as well there is much to depressingly challenge me in this crappy ageing time in my life, SO THERE!’ Bloody hell? I pondered about the 2kg sinker; no wonder my paw aches! Was she hoping to catch a shark & what was she gonna do with a shark anyhow, bring him home? I could see the Headline “Old Lady in Ugly Hat Punches Shark in 6 Tinny under Wardell Bridge. 5 Cats Observed Swimming Briskly Toward Shore”. Crikey! When she had calmed a bit, I suggested we simply talk about the ‘changing routines in her life’. She mumbled crabbily so I spoke up. ‘Mum, did you know humans dri into a smaller world as they age; it’s pretty common. Your life kinda shrinks, ‘cos basically you’ve fallen into the sorta comfort & contentment phase of, quite simply, routine days. You read books, watch TV, cook, do laundry, clean our house, paint stu , chop down trees, iron & GRUMBLE. I also note Mum, you’ve not been venturing out much lately. How come?’ She shouted again ‘because it’s so bloody cold, wet & dismal I feel like I’m living on Dartmoor in a leaky tent, that’s why!’ (OMG! should I tell her about my 2kg sinker weight trick? NUP, not a good time, very bad idea Leems!) Hmmm. ‘OK Mum, fess up; tell me what’s bothering you? C’mon!’ A bit of feeble incoherent sni ing emanated from her pruney mouth; ‘Well, Leems, there’s one thing I can say and that is that feeling cold & old is “not for the fainthearted” I simply don’t like it one little bit. AND, unlike you, I haven’t had the good fortune to suddenly sprout a mink-like winter coat to keep warm. Gottit?’ I ‘kinda get it; But I’m now older than ‘Her Crabbiness’ yet you don’t hear ME grumbling. I shall wisely say no more. Nitey now, time for more sleeps. Leemo, with bemused purrsies.

It’s a Dry July for Our House

IT IS JULY, WHICH MEANS IT IS DRY

JULY!

Dry July is all about pledging to go 31 days without a drop of alcohol. Join thousands of people across Australia who sign up for Dry July to help cancer patients. Once again, the Our House Team has challenged themselves and put their hands up to drink no alcohol for the month of July.

The team at Our House have been going dry since 2010, when the Our House project became the frst regional project to be supported by the national charity Dry July.

This year, Dr Chris Ingall, Rebekka Battista and Tania HarrisBateman from Our House are joining forces with Bridie Tanner and Julie Ray from ABC North Coast, to not only to give their livers a break but also to rally the community to join them in raising funds for cancer.

This year, the funds raised by the Our House team will go towards repainting the 20 rooms at Our House as part of the ‘Help Keep Our House Beautiful’ program.

“One thousand guests a year from across the Northern Rivers stay at Our House while they or their loved one has medical treatment, and we would like to continue to keep Our House looking beautiful for patients to enjoy,”

Rebekka Battista, Our

House Director, said. Dry July is a national campaign that started with a group of mates,

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.

one who had cancer and the others who decided to ‘dare’ each other to go dry to raise funds. Dry

July has inspired more than 250,000 Aussies to go dry, raising over $60 million for people affected by cancer and funding projects at more than 80 cancer organisations across Australia. Our House is one of these projects. Past funds from Dry July have replaced bathroom foors, sofa beds, and beds, replaced TVs in the rooms, and repainted the therapy gardens— all to help “Keep Our House Beautiful.”

Join or support the Our House team: https:// www.dryjuly.com/ benefciaries/our-house For more information, contact Rebekka Battista on 0438 417 085.

OLD AGE’ AIN’T FOR THE FAINTHEARTED

Our House Directors Chris Ingall and Brian

Ruth Harrison, Our House Manager and Rebekka Battista, Our House Director

Lismore City Mayor

Upgrade breathes new life into skatepark

Steve Krieg and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn today offcially opened the upgraded Goonellabah Skatepark.

Designed by skatepark specialists Trinity Skateparks with input from local enthusiasts, the upgrades include new ramps, a ‘pier 7’ ledge, manual pad, loading dock and hydrant, fat rail and a slappy kerb. The upgrades were designed to create more beginner-friendly elements for riders to develop their skills. In addition to the new

features, extensive maintenance work was undertaken by Trinity Skateparks on the existing bowl, transitions, and fat surfaces to improve the skate surface and prolong the life of the park.

Mayor Krieg said the 18-year-old skatepark was in need of a refresh.

“Works actually fnished ahead of schedule and the feedback I’ve got so far is very positive,” he said.

“It’s important that we have good quality facilities like the

Goonellabah Skatepark for our young people.

“Now that the skatepark is open, Council is holding free Skate Clinic Workshops through the school holidays. In encourage anyone who wants to learn how to skate or sharpen their skills to register and come along.”

Facilitated by Truckstop Sk8 School, the workshops are designed for kids aged 5-14 years and cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skaters.

Member for Lismore

Janelle Saffn said it’s good that the State Government, through this program, could back in the Council for these improvements.

“The State should be backing any opportunity to support young people getting outdoor recreation and exercise,” she said.

“When State and Local governments work together, we get good outcomes.”

The $306,193 upgrades were funded by the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities program.

Major Milestones in Disaster Recovery for the Northern Rivers

Australia’s largest disaster adaptation project in the Northern Rivers has progressed to a new phase, offering tailored home assessments to make residences more food-resilient. Under the Home Raising and Home Retroft stream of the $790 million Resilient Homes Program, approximately 370 homeowners have been identifed as eligible for these initiatives.

Home Raising and Retroft Program

A key recommendation from the NSW Flood Inquiry, home raising reduces food damage by elevating homes, while home retrofts refurbish homes to better withstand fooding. The NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA), in

collaboration with James Davidson from JDA Co, is leading this effort, providing homeowners with free in-home assessment reports. Eligible homeowners can then appoint a builder to make their homes more resilient to future fooding.

• Home Retroft Grant: Up to $50,000, with a dollar-for-dollar co-contribution, totalling a maximum of $100,000.

• Home Raising Grant: Up to $100,000, with a dollar-for-dollar co-contribution, totalling a maximum of $200,000.

Resilient Lands Program

The North Lismore development has been announced as the latest site through the $100 million Resilient Lands

Program, providing around 85 home sites. This follows previous announcements at East Lismore, Goonellabah, Brunswick Heads, Casino, and Lennox Head, with over 2,800 housing sites now in planning across the Northern Rivers. North Lismore will be master-planned in consultation with the community, considering environmental, biodiversity, and cultural signifcance.

Agricultural Support

The $5 million Northern Rivers Agricultural Drainage Reset Program is repairing and cleaning up to 100 drains that support agricultural properties. This initiative addresses vegetation build-up in large drains, ensuring they effectively channel water away

from the land, thus enhancing long-term resilience for farmers and communities.

Community Engagement and Feedback

The recovery program is guided by community feedback and the Northern Rivers Community Leaders Forum, established 12 months ago. Between August 2023 and January 2024, the RA conducted doorknocks at over 4,880 homes across seven LGAs. Pop-up information offces have engaged over 4,339 visitors as of late June. Ministerial Statements Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully: “Our efforts in the Northern Rivers are about long-term changes to mitigate future disasters and

adapt to climate change. Signifcant progress has been made with the Resilient Homes Program, and more is to come.”

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib: “The community’s resilience and cooperation are commendable. Local engagement has been crucial in guiding food recovery projects and improving evacuation routes for better emergency response.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffn: “Community feedback has shaped a more people-friendly approach to eligibility for key programs like the Resilient Homes Program, refecting our commitment to longterm recovery.”

Lismore Mayor

Steve Krieg: “The NSW Government’s community-centric approach has accelerated our recovery. The North Lismore announcement and the Raise and Retroft program commencement are positive steps for disaster-affected families.”

Finally

These milestones mark signifcant progress in the Northern Rivers’ disaster recovery, with ongoing efforts to enhance food resilience, support agricultural stability, and engage the community in long-term planning and adaptation strategies.

Tweed Shire Council Seeks Community Feedback on Crabbes Creek Community Hall Upgrade

Tweed Shire Council is inviting community feedback on a draft concept plan to upgrade the Crabbes Creek Community Hall, aiming to make it a safer and more inclusive space for gatherings, events, and activities. This upgrade, valued at $538,560, is part of a larger $15.5 million funding package from the Australian and NSW governments to restore and enhance community assets impacted by storms or foods.

Background and Purpose Crabbes Creek Community Hall suffered

signifcant damage during the 2022 foods. The planned renovations will use food-resistant materials and design elements to mitigate the impact of future food events. The community is encouraged to learn more and discuss the upgrades with Council staff at the hall on Thursday, 25 July, from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm.

Key Features of the Upgrade

Shannon Carruth, Manager of Inclusive & Creative Communities, emphasized that the upgrade aims to make the hall a safer, more inviting, and inclusive

space for all residents and visitors. “During the food in February 2022, the hall suffered damage, leading to signifcant impacts on both its internal and external features,” Ms. Carruth said. “To ensure the hall can welcome all members of the community regardless of their ability, the refurbishment will incorporate features such as accessible toilet amenities, an accessible car park, and safe, linking pathways.”

The refurbished hall will also include an accessible public toilet, providing essential amenities for

visitors and users of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. “After the upgrade, the hall will be equipped to function as a more secure and welcoming venue for gatherings, events, and activities that bring our community together for years to come,” Ms. Carruth added.

Proposed Works

The proposed upgrades to Crabbes Creek Community Hall include:

• Refurbishment of both exterior and interior of the building

• Creation of an accessible parking space

• Installation of a

unisex accessible public toilet

• Addition of unisex accessible toilets, one female and one male ambulant toilet for exclusive use by the hall

• Construction of connecting pathways

• Installation of a bike rack

• Installation of new water tanks

• Relocation of the existing sewer system

• Addition of a new awning in stage two (fnal design pending community feedback, heritage approval, and available funds)

How to Participate

Community members can view the draft concept plan and share their thoughts before 4:00 pm on Wednesday, 31 July 2024, by visiting yoursaytweed.com.au/ crabbescreekhall.

The Crabbes Creek Community Hall upgrade represents a signifcant investment in the local community, aimed at restoring a vital community asset and ensuring it is inclusive and resilient against future fooding. Community input is crucial to shaping the fnal design and ensuring the hall meets the needs of all users.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffn and grandson Gabriel check out the upgraded Goonellabah Skatepark with Lismore City Mayor Cr Steve Krieg and young skatepark users Jasper Pym, 6, and Eden Pym, 8.

Samantha’s Book

Cassino Art Gallery’s Un-Real exhibition

Two families, two histories, one HUGE secret

Title: Honour

Author: Will Spokes

Price: $34.95

Publisher: Shawline

Publishing By Samantha Elley

is is the story of two early pioneering families, one in Queensland and the other in New South Wales.

e Queensland Cuthbertsons are a farming family in the outback and have been confronted with drought, dust and distance but have managed to forge out their niche in their community, earning the respect of everyone who comes into contact with them.

e Parnhams make their way to settle in the lush farmlands west of the embryonic city of Sydney. ey make their

Cassino Art Gallery’s Un-Real exhibition, opening on July 13, in the old RTA building, 148 Barker Street, Casino is attracting artists who are embracing the Un-Real theme.

Local artist, Carol Horton is excited to show her work to a wider audience and is bringing some of her multimedia collection of colourful faces to the exhibition.

“I am really excited about the Cassino Gallery and how they are promoting something entirely different to traditional genres, Carol said.

And Byron Bay artist Jeremy Kay will be bringing some of his works using coloured resin and lighting that comes alive in the form of 3D interactive light boxes.

“It’s something that you see in a room and go “wow...now, that’s a vibe”, Jeremy says.

Other artworks and installations include

a ‘Thinking Man in a Box’; a weird and wonderful bicycle that ‘goes nowhere, does nothing and thoroughly enjoys the journey, a hanging display of certifcates making ironic statements on the number of documents we have to deal with, and much more.

A visit to the Gallery in the school holidays could be a great way to entertain kids and adults alike.

Visitors to the exhibition are invited

to choose their best or worst entry with a ‘People’s Choice’ award going to the winners – or losers.

New to the role this year Gallery president Laszlo Biro said the UnReal exhibition was an idea aimed at attracting a wide range of artistic practice, artists and new audiences to the Gallery.

“Many people don’t know what we offer or even where we are,” Laszlo said.

“The Un-Real exhibition is part of the

new committee’s plan to bring a fresh focus, and new audiences to the Gallery.”

The Un-Real exhibition will be offcially opened on Saturday July 13th at 2pm and be open during the Gallery’s opening hours: 10am to 3pm on Thursday Friday and Saturday July 18th to August 3rd with a gold coin donation.

P: 6662 1943 E: cassinoartgallery@ gmail.com

F: https://www.facebook. com/casinoartgallery

Services Australia’s Mobile Service Centre

money from the eece of their prize merinos and nd themselves mixing in the upper circles of business and politics.

As World War

Two interrupts the rhythm of the lives of the Cuthbertsons and Parnhams, both families make their own contributions to the war. What happens next will cause both families to cross paths in a most unexpected way. Secrets will be revealed and ethics and morals questioned, even to the point of bringing down the government of the day.

is is the third book from author, Will Spokes, a er retiring from the commercial radio and insurance industries. His other titles were Death on the Ferry Hygeia and Lusine’s Blessing. He has always enjoyed literature of all genres and some of his happiest memories involve a good book, a glass of wine and a warming re. You can order your copy of Honour from shawlinepublishing. com.au

Services Australia’s Mobile Service Centre, Golden Wattle, is set to tour the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, bringing vital services to local communities. This initiative ensures that residents can easily access Centrelink, Medicare, the National Disability Insurance Scheme, and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs services.

The Golden Wattle will be stationed at the following locations and times:

• Tyalgum: Tuesday, July 16, near the tennis courts on Coolman Street (9:00 am to 4:00 pm)

• Nimbin: Wednesday, July 17, opposite the neighbourhood centre on Cullen Street (9:30 am to 4:00 pm)

• Urbenville: Thursday, July 18, near Captain Cook Park on Urben Street (9:30 am to 3:30 pm)

• Woodenbong: Friday, July 19, in front of Woodenbong Hall on Unumgar Street (9:30 am to 4:00 pm)

• Kyogle: Monday, July 22, and Tuesday, July 23, in the Kyogle visitor centre car park on Summerland Way (9:00 am to 4:00 pm)

• Bonalbo: Wednesday, July 24, in front of Bonalbo Hall on Koreelah Street (9:30 am to 4:00 pm)

• Tabulam: Thursday, July 25, opposite the hotel on Court Street (9:30 am to 3:00 pm)

These Mobile Service Centres are 20-tonne trucks staffed by Services Australia personnel, offering

friendly face-to-face service and tailored support. The staff can assist with Centrelink claims, Medicare registrations, and accessing online services. Additionally, information about the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Department of Veterans’ Affairs programs will be available.

For more details, including specifc stopping times, visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/ mobileoffce.

Jeremy Kay pictured with one of his poured resin artworks which will be on display at the Un-Real exhibition at the Cassino Gallery.

New 4WD Policy Aims to Protect Local Environment

Changes to 4WD access at Lennox Head’s Seven Mile Beach took effect on Monday, 1 July 2024. The new policy promotes safe beach access and seeks to minimize the impact on the beach, dunes, and surrounding areas.

“Everyone loves the unique experience of driving on our stunning beaches. However, we must remember that this enjoyment comes with responsibilities.

It’s crucial to balance our love for this activity with the need to protect the environment we cherish and ensure the safety of all beachgoers,” said Ballina Shire Council Mayor Sharon Cadwallader. Due to increasing beach use and safety concerns, the Council has committed to phasing out 4WD access to Seven Mile Beach by 2028. This decision aims to protect the beach’s

natural environment, which is home to nesting sea turtles, shorebirds, and macroinvertebrates such as crabs, worms, and pipis.

The Ballina Shire Council endorsed the new 4WD Beach Access Policy in November 2023. As of 1 July, the policy discontinued 1 and 30-day 4WD passes, leaving only 6 and 12-month permits available for purchase.

A comprehensive

report on the Seven Mile 4WD Beach Access Policy revealed a 107% increase in 1-day permits from the 2021/2022 to 2022/2023 fnancial year. The total number of permits sold in 2023 was 4,941, compared to 2,690 in 2022. This surge in permit sales has been accompanied by a growing number of complaints about conficts with other beach users, including walkers, dog owners, and

horse riders.

The revised permit and policy changes were presented for a six-week community exhibition in February 2023, resulting in 268 responses reported to the Council for consideration.

Beach users can purchase a 4WD beach permit from the automated kiosk located along Camp Drewe Road or via the EasyPark application. The beach access point is monitored

24/7 via a surveillance camera. Vehicles without a valid permit accessing the 4WD track and beach may be issued a fne. For more information about safe driving on beaches, permit details, or to read the policy, visit the Council’s website at ballina.nsw.gov.au/4wdson-beaches.

National Circus Festival Returns in 2024: Early Bird Tickets on Sale!

Event Dates: October 4-6, 2024

Location: Mullumbimby Showground, NSW

Following a sell-out event in 2022, the National Circus Festival is set to transform Mullumbimby Showground into a circus wonderland from October 4th to 6th. The festival will feature the country’s best circus artists delivering a world-class program flled with thrilling circus and cabaret shows, live music, delicious food, engaging workshops, and a grand big top. This three-day event offers the perfect staycation, with limited tickets available!

Early Bird Tickets for the National Circus Festival are on sale from Wednesday, July 3rd until Friday, July 26th (or until sold out). Ticket prices range from $25 for children to $70 for adults for a 1-day pass.

First Announced Artists for 2024:

• Yuck Circus:

All-female powerhouse company with their new work Deadset—a rock and roll show celebrating all things Aussie, from Kath and Kim to Bondi Rescue.

• Casus: Internationally acclaimed circus company presenting You & I.

• Small Wonders: A collaboration between National Circus Festival founder Tony Rooke, juggler Joel Salom, and international stars Bridie Hooper and Billie Wilson-Coffey.

• Fritz: A charming kids’ slapstick show directed by Clare Bartholomew, featuring clown Emile Bloom and an eccentric disappearing rabbit.

This is just a taste of the 2024 lineup, with the full program set to be announced on August 21st.

Alice Cadwell, Director of the National Circus Festival, shared her excitement: “We are dedicated to celebrating community with a jam-packed program that’s affordable and has something for everyone. The 2024 National

Circus Festival takes circus to the next level with quality shows, giving opportunities for our emerging circus stars to present new work, while showcasing established artists traveling from across Australia to share full-length works fresh off national tours.”

Dual Program:

• Festival Weekend: October 4-6. Over 100 events will take place across multiple venues at Mullumbimby Showground.

Early Bird Tickets are now available on the https://www. nationalcircusfestival. com/

Event Details:

• National Training Program: September 29 – October 3

• Festival Weekend: Friday, October 4 –Sunday, October 6

• Location: Mullumbimby Showground, NSW For further information and tickets: https://www. nationalcircusfestival. com/

Follow Us: #NCF2024 #nationalcircusfestival 20

• National Training Program: September 29 – October 3. This program brings together Australia’s best circus artists to train, collaborate, and develop existing works.

No Excuses…by Nigel Dawe

“DIFFICULTY,” once said the American journo Edward R. Murrow, “is the excuse history never accepts.” Having witnessed and reported on the inexcusable hellfire of WWII firsthand, I wonder what someone like Murrow would make of our current excuse-affording, albeit compulsive excuseaccommodating culture.

How often do you hear excuse after excuse peddled for all types of things from the worst criminal behaviours to the dodgiest of antics that bring about an equal level of hurt to others.

For anyone that has read my columns, you’d know I’m not heartless, but I don’t swallow ‘reasons’ like tough upbringing, boarding school or mental health as excuses for reprehensible actions.

While a mental disorder might explain something truly offensive and unacceptable, it does not excuse or reverse what has been inflicted upon those that have been on the ‘receiving end’ of such vented mania. A double infliction of trauma is incurred to victims when they have to politely look the other way, or accept the limp excuses used by those who should own what they’ve done, if not hide their heads in shame.

Maybe I played too much sport as a kid, or perhaps it has more to do with having grown up in the bush; but when I hear excuses of any kind, I recoil into a simmering reactive sphere that reflects clear loathing. Doing it tough, and somehow rising above, is a given for anyone in this part of the world, or as Steven Grayhm once said, “Excuses are the tools with which people

Almost Half of Australians Unaware of Legal Drink Limits for Driving, Survey Reveals

with no purpose in view, build for themselves great monuments of nothing.”

There have been many times in my life that I’ve been grateful for having had my moral compass rigidly cast by the twin throes of competitive sport and high culture.

To some they might seem contradictory forces that could well cancel each other out, but together they have given me an outlook that doesn’t just appreciate the best, but they instil an approach that senses BS, and halfheartedness at a hundred paces.

From a very young age I have been intrigued by the influence that great coaches and public figures have had in conjuring success, if not moulding mindsets that accomplish the near-on impossible. The inspiration of the views of such people unfailingly keep their motivating brimstone alive, as such, the American basketball coach, John Wooden once roared, “Never make excuses. Your friends don’t need them and your foes won’t believe them.” And nor should you. Owning our efforts, output and performance is the first mark of anyone who has the fibre to excel. Not blaming others, the weather, an upset belly or the raised eyebrows of a stranger on a bus, are the giveaways that you are in the presence of someone who will give their best, no matter what.

Relatedly, AFL coach of the century, Norm Smith once proclaimed, “The biggest lie is the one you tell yourself…Do not judge success by what you have achieved but by what you should have achieved with the ability you have.”

A recent survey conducted by Budget Direct Car Insurance has revealed that nearly half of Australians are uncertain about the number of alcoholic drinks they can consume and still legally drive. This uncertainty is particularly pronounced among younger and middle-aged adults.

Key Findings from the Survey:

• Age Group Uncertainty:

o Almost 60% of respondents aged 18 to 27 admitted to not knowing the legal drink limit for driving.

o Over 50% of those aged 38 to 47 also reported being unsure of the legal drink limit.

• Risky Driving Behaviours:

o 14% of respondents confessed to driving within the past six months while believing they might be over the legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit. This is double the rate found in 2021.

• Misconceptions About Sobering Up:

o Nearly 50% of respondents mistakenly believed that drinking water could lower their BAC.

o Almost 30% thought sleeping would reduce their BAC, followed by eating something greasy as another common misconception.

“Although these activities might reduce the symptoms and feelings associated with being over the legal limit, the only thing that can truly sober you up is time,” a spokesperson for Budget Direct clarifed.

Consequences of Drink Driving:

Penalties for driving with an illegal BAC level in Australia can vary widely, including fnes, licence disqualifcation, court orders, or even imprisonment. Alarmingly, more than one in fve road deaths in Australia involve a driver with an illegal BAC level.

Public Opinion on Preventive Measures: Respondents were

evenly divided on whether all cars should be equipped with a breathalyser device to prevent the engine from starting if the driver is over the legal limit.

In 2022, a study in New South Wales tested this theory and found that high-range drink drivers were almost 90% less likely to reoffend when a breathalyser device was installed in their vehicles.

This survey highlights the need for increased education and awareness about drink driving limits and effective measures to reduce alcohol-related road incidents in Australia

Alstonville Intersection Upgrade Commences 8 July 2024

Ballina Shire Council will begin the next stage of the Main Street and The Avenue Intersection Upgrade in Alstonville on Monday, 8 July 2024. This phase, funded by the NSW Government’s Get NSW Active program, aims to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety and is expected to be completed by late July 2024, weather permitting.

Key Features of the Upgrade:

• New pedestrian crossing with street lighting

• Raised and asphalt road surface

• New kerb and gutter

• Stormwater and drainage upgrades

• Extended median strip along Main Street

• New accessible car parking space

• Landscaping What to Expect During the July School Holidays:

• Business Access:

Maintained, with consultation for any necessary driveway disruptions.

• Extended Work Hours: Monday to Friday from 7 am to 5 pm, and Saturdays from 8 am to 3 pm. No work on Sundays and Public Holidays.

• Road Closures and Detours: Main Street closed in front of 61 Main Street from 8 July to the end of the July school holidays. Detours

via Daley Street. Postholidays, The Avenue may close at Main Street, with detours also via Daley Street.

• Construction

Compound: Temporary compound in The Avenue parking lane adjacent to 59 Main Street.

Council apologizes for any inconvenience and thanks the community for their patience during the upgrade.

First MEAO commemoration

An inaugural Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) commemoration service will take place on Thursday 11th July 2024 at the Maclean War Memorial commencing at 5pm.

This is the frst year we have gathered to honour Australians who lost their lives as a result of two decades of confict in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as all those who

served alongside them.

Australia joined its coalition partners between 2001 and 2021 to disrupt the threat from international terrorism to both international security and our own national security. We would pay a heavy price for our commitment with forty-one lives lost in Afghanistan and two lives lost in Iraq and Kuwait. Afghanistan was Australia’s longest war and many of our young servicemen and women would return from overseas with

lasting physical injuries and mental trauma.

Members of the public are invited to

attend to pay their respects. Veterans and their families will be offered a light meal and

refreshments at the old Maclean Services Club after the conclusion of the service.

Make

Australian soldiers in Afghanistan

Tweed Residents Invited to Celebrate NAIDOC Week 2024

From the annual march and corroboree in the park to a health and sport expo, Elders cruise, art exhibitions, and more, Tweed residents are invited to join a series of engaging events for this year’s NAIDOC Week, running from 7 - 14 July.

Celebrating Indigenous Culture

NAIDOC Week

celebrates and recognizes the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. For the Tweed region, this means honoring the Bundjalung na-tion, including the Ngandowal and Minyungbal speaking people, and specifcally the Goodjinbur-ra, Tul-gi-gin, and Moorung-Moobah clans. This week offers all Australians an opportunity to learn about First Nations culture and history and

to celebrate the oldest continuous living culture on earth.

Event Highlights

• Cultural Day at Minjungbal Museum

o Date: Monday, 8 July

o Location: Minjungbal Museum and Cultural Centre, Tweed Heads

• Annual Health and Sports Expo and March and Corroboree in the Park

o Date: Friday, 12 July

o Location: Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Tweed Heads

• Art Exhibitions

o Visit the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Centre to view works by First Na-tions artists, including the exhibition “Saltwater Currents: First Nations Seascapes and Contemporary Artefacts” by Anthony J. Walker.

Theme: Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud

This year’s theme celebrates the strength, vitality, and enduring nature of First Nations culture, central to Tweed’s identity. Events include a Cultural Day at Minjungbal Museum, gallery exhibi-tions, and the Health and Sports Expo. The NAIDOC Week will offcially begin with a fag-raising ceremony on Sunday, 7 July at Minjungbal Museum and Cultural Centre.

Detailed Program of Events

• Wednesday, 10 July

o Health and Sports Expo, 10 am – 3 pm

Location: Arkinstall Park, Robert Street, Tweed Heads South

• Thursday, 11 July

o Saltwater Day, 10 am – 2 pm (community barbecue and gathering)

Location: Fingal

Head Beach, 1 Marine Parade, Fingal Head

o Canowindra Elders Lunch, 12 – 2 pm

Location: South Tweed Sports Club, 4 Minjungbal Dr, Tweed Heads South

• Friday, 12 July

o Tweed NAIDOC March & Corroboree in the Park, 10 am – 12.30 pm

Starting at Tweed Heads Civic Centre, cnr Brett and Wharf streets Finishing at Jack Evans Boat Harbour

o NAIDOC Dinner

Dance, 6 pm – late

Location: Club Tweed (Tweed Heads Bowls Club), cnr Florence and Wharf streets, Tweed Heads (Limited numbers, tickets required)

Supporting Local Culture and History Council’s Community Development Offcer, Erika Chadburn, emphasized that NAIDOC Week is about celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and honoring their culture, histories, strength, and resilience. “This year’s theme ‘Keep the fre

burning’ honors the work and efforts of local Elders and Indigenous community leaders, ensuring their good work continues and celebrating the achievements of Indigenous people,” said Ms. Chadburn.

For more information about NAIDOC Week activities and to get involved, visit naidoc. org.au or contact the Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council via email at admin@ tblalc.com.

Find Out More About What’s Involved in Becoming a Councillor

Calling all Byron Shire residents who love their communities, have loads of energy, a ‘can do’ attitude, and enjoy a challenge. The NSW Local Government elections are scheduled for 14 September, and there are nine spots to fll in the Byron Shire Council Chambers.

Key Dates:

• Nominations Open: Monday, 5 August

• Nominations Close:

12 pm, Wednesday, 14 August

Esmeralda Davis, Director of Corporate and Community Services, emphasized the importance of understanding the responsibilities and expectations involved in being a Councillor. “Being a Councillor is extremely rewarding but the job also brings with it responsibility and high expectations from

the community and the NSW Government,” Ms. Davis said. “I encourage everyone to look at the NSW Electoral Commission (NSWEC) website to get a feel for what’s involved and if they are eligible to run.”

Why Consider Becoming a Councillor?

• Infuence positive change in your community.

• Comply with State

and Federal legislation in decision-making.

• Engage with a vibrant and active community interested in Council matters.

Upcoming Information Sessions: To help potential candidates understand the role, two local briefng sessions are being organized jointly with Ballina Shire Council: Session 1:

• Date: 22 July 2024

• Time: 6 pm to 9 pm

• Location: Ballina Indoor Sports Centre, 63 Cherry St, Ballina Session 2:

• Date: 23 July 2024

• Time: 6 pm to 9 pm

• Location: Byron Shire Council Chambers, 70 Station St, Mullumbimby Key Areas Covered in the Sessions:

• Understanding the importance of local government

• Clarifying the roles of council and councillors

• Explaining council structures and challenges

• Highlighting the signifcance of inclusivity and diverse representation

• Providing guidance on speaking out confdently

• Explaining meeting procedures and support resources

The NAIDOC March & Corroboree in the park will take place on Friday 12 July.

e Northern Rivers Times July 11, 2024

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX MARKET REPORT

Yarding Down to 600 Head Due to Rain

Rain throughout the area restricted cattle numbers to 600 head this week, comprising a good supply of young cattle, mainly weaners, and a fair penning of cows. The quality of the young cattle was mixed, featuring several pens of well-bred cattle alongside some plainer types.

Market Performance:

• Weaner Steers: Prices improved by 10c for restocker weaners, selling between 190c and 348c, with an average of 300c/kg.

• Weaner Heifers: Restocker

WARWICK

weaner heifers ranged from 182c to 276c/kg.

• Yearling Steers: Sold up to 328c/kg.

Export Cattle:

The yarding of export cattle mainly consisted of cows, with a few pens of grown steers and heifers.

• Grown Steers: Topped at 286c/kg.

• Grown Heifers: Sold up to 266c/kg.

Cow Market:

The cow market saw an improvement of 20c to 30c.

• 2 Score Cows: Sold from 190c to 205c/kg.

• 3 Score Cows: Averaged 214c/ kg.

kg ($1175.33 to $1890.81)

Livestock Markets Warwick & District W/E 05/07/2024

Numbers varied across the markets this week as rain in some areas halted the fow of stock to both sale and markets. While cattle numbers were down, sheep and lamb numbers saw an increase for the frst sale of the new fnancial year. The numbers for pigs, poultry, and calves remained consistent with previous sales. Cattle numbers reached 624 head, while sheep and lamb numbers increased to 2635 head.

The markets were frm for fresher, better-quality livestock, whereas rates fell for lighter stock lacking fnish. Cattle Market Report

• Vealer Steers: Averaged 304.9 c/kg, topping at 408.2 c/kg ($660.26 to $782.55)

• Vealer Heifers: Averaged 227.4 c/kg, topping at 260 c/kg ($463.53 to $832.00)

• Feeder Steers: Averaged 275 c/kg, topping at 328.2 c/kg ($1062.09 to $1692.80)

• Feeder Heifers: Averaged 256.9 c/kg, topping at 390.2 c/kg ($954.71 to $2029.04)

• Yearling Steers: Averaged 332.6 c/kg, topping at 416.2 c/kg ($916.20 to $1918.71)

• Yearling Heifers: Averaged 257.7 c/kg, topping at 310.2 c/kg ($721.99 to $1174.50)

• Steers: Averaged 251.2 c/kg, topping at 295.2 c/ kg ($1678.56 to $1977.84)

• Heifers: Averaged 260 c/kg, topping at 287.2 c/ kg ($1433.80 to $2010.40)

• Cows: Averaged 214.3 c/kg, topping at 255.2 c/

• 4 Score Cows: Ranged from 224c to 254c/kg.

Despite the restricted numbers due

• Bulls: Averaged 277.4 c/kg, topping at 374.2 c/ kg ($1251.18 to $2739.99) Sheep and Lamb Market Report

• Lambs: Topped at $215, averaging $128.03 (down $8/head)

• Hoggets: Topped at $126, averaging $59.91 (down $37/head)

• Ewes: Topped at $120, averaging $83.73 (up $13/head)

• Wethers: Topped at $130, averaging $99.93 (up $11/head)

• Rams: Topped at $76, averaging $48.65 (down $26/head)

• Lamb Rams: Topped at $130, averaging $102.85 (down $3/head)

• Total Yard Average: $103.41/head (down $9/ head week on week) Pork, Poultry, and Other Livestock Sales

• Pork: Limited sales ranging from $10 to $167

• Roosters: Topped at $25

• Hens: Topped at $17.50

• Pullets: Topped at $35

• Chickens: Topped at $17.50

• Ducks: Topped at $73

McDougall & Sons Sheep & Lamb Report

Agents and vendors combined for a larger yarding of sheep and lambs for the weekly sale in Warwick, with a total of 2635 head, up by 800 from the previous week’s sale. The yarding included a variety of stock, from good trade and export lambs to light feed-on types, as well as the usual hogget and mutton types, with a few runs

to rain, the market showed notable improvements, particularly in the cow segment.

of good Merino types in both light trade and mutton categories. Notable Sales

• Greenup Maryland P/S: Sold Dorset lambs 64.2kg to Thomas Foods for $215

• Gradenfoe P/C: Sold 1st cross Dorset lambs 52kg to Thomas Foods for $167

• Gooroo Grazing: Sold Dorper cross lambs 56kg to Eversons for $191 and $190, 51kg to Eversons for $188, 51.8kg to Warwick Meats for $182

• Matthew Payne: Sold Dorper lambs 56kg to GR Prime for $188

• Will Bazley & Vanessa McDonald: Sold crossbred lambs 52.7kg to Thomas Foods for $160, 46.9kg crossbred lambs to Eversons for $156, 44.8kg to GR Prime for $135, 38.6kg to McMahon Bros for $129

• Martin Power: Sold Suffolk cross lambs 38.75kg to restockers, and hoggets to the same purchaser for $70

• Pikedale Past Co: Sold Dorper lambs 38kg to restockers for $75, 37kg to restockers for $68, 33kg to restockers for $49 and $54, 41kg hoggets to restockers for $48, ewes to Eversons for $45

• Hacker Family: Sold 2- and 4-tooth Merino wethers 44kg to McIntyre Meats for $40, 38kg to restockers for $33, ewe 2- and 4-tooth to restockers for $43, $35, $37 and $35, rams to Eversons for $31, $30 and $28, ewes to McIntyre Meats for $40

This week’s market highlighted the ongoing challenges and adjustments within the livestock sector due to varying conditions, but also showed the resilience and adaptability of producers in managing their stock and market engagements.

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

Don’t Use Grower Livelihoods as Bargaining Chips

CANEGROWERS has welcomed the Fair Work Commission’s decision to suspend industrial action at Wilmar sugar mills for six weeks.

Chairman Owen Menkens is calling on all parties to use this period to fnd a permanent resolution to the ongoing pay dispute.

“The Commission’s ruling will come as a huge relief to growers, many of whom have already been signifcantly impacted by this dispute,” Mr. Menkens said. “It offers some certainty around crushing, at least until mid-August, so we can get on with the harvest while the milling company and unions continue to negotiate a fair resolution.”

Mr. Menkens noted that the ongoing dispute has created signifcant anxiety within the growing community.

“CANEGROWERS

has been working with the affected districts to ensure grower concerns are addressed and to calculate the cost of ongoing disruptions to the crush. While we are not a party to the dispute, and we are fully aware that the unions have appealed the suspension order, we

will continue to work directly with the mill and unions to encourage a satisfactory resolution to the situation.”

“This dispute has dragged on for months and has already cost the industry a great deal due to stalling and delaying the crush across Wilmar districts, not to mention

Farmers Gutted by Live Sheep Ban Passing Parliament

In a devastating blow to farming communities, Parliament has passed legislation to end the live sheep trade, disregarding proper process, extensive evidence, and pleas from farmers across Australia.

NFF President David Jochinke expressed widespread dismay among farmers who had invested signifcantly in reforms that resulted in world-leading animal welfare outcomes.

“Farming communities have been sold out for political gain, and they’re gutted,” Mr. Jochinke said.

“The Government vowed to kill off the jobs of farmers, shearers, and truckies in WA. Credit to them, they’ve executed that job with ruthless effciency. Whether it was fxing the outcome

of the Independent Panel or the House Inquiry, or backfipping on senate scrutiny and guillotining debate – the Government pulled out every trick to silence those affected.

“They didn’t want to risk exposing the utter lack of scientifc evidence or acknowledge the infuriated outcry that has followed this ill-informed, votegrabbing policy. The facts are that unless this ban is reversed, farming communities, animals, and Australia’s strategic trade partnerships will all suffer.

“We now have a dangerously unscientifc precedent that will be celebrated tonight by groups who want to shut down Australian livestock production. This isn’t just about live

sheep. This government has just told every farmer in Australia to sleep with one eye open.”

Mr. Jochinke paid homage to the Western Australian communities continuing to ramp up their fght for the trade to stay. “These communities will wake up tomorrow with a lot to digest and some tough business decisions to make. Sadly, there isn’t a cent of federal support in the feld and no details for how and when this will be rolled out.

“WA communities should be proud of their powerful collective efforts to push back on this. They have my commitment that the NFF will continue to stand with them.”

the stress it has caused to growers,” he added.

Mr. Menkens emphasized the need for a fair negotiation process but expressed concern about the potential impact on growers. “We continue to support the rights of workers and employers to negotiate fair

enterprise agreements, but as this dispute drags into the cane crushing season proper, there is a clear risk that growers’ livelihoods are being used as a bargaining chip by both sides. The mill and unions are locked in a game of chicken, hurtling towards a

mid-season collision and hoping the other side blinks. Cane farming families may well be the unintended casualties.”

He urged all parties to prioritize the needs of the industry and avoid further disruptions. “The parties need to take any and all steps necessary to ensure there are no more disruptions to this year’s cane crush. We understand the unions have a right to stand up for their members, and at the same time, we need fnancially viable mills, but no one in the industry is well served by constant threats of stoppages. We need both parties to resolve the dispute now.”

CANEGROWERS remains committed to supporting the industry through these challenging times and ensuring the stability and prosperity of cane farming families.

NFF hails big stick changes in Emerson’s fnal report

The National Farmers’ Federation welcomes the fnal report of the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct Independent Review by Dr Craig Emerson and the Federal Government’s acceptance of all 11 recommendations.

NFF Acting Chief Executive Offcer Charlie Thomas said the report backed the peak farming body’s calls to better protect growers. This includes making the code mandatory, signifcantly increasing penalties for breaches, and better support for growers to raise issues with the ACCC.

The NFF is hopeful the Review recommendations will provide clear, credible and enforceable reform to ensure the Code is working effectively both now and into the future.

“This is a signifcant step in our campaign to level the playing feld for farmers,” Mr Thomas explained.

“We’ve always said that to protect growers, we need a code with strong enough deterrents to infuence behavior in

the supply chain.”

The NFF strongly supports the Review’s specifc focus on the fresh produce sector, given suppliers of perishable products are particularly vulnerable to poor behaviour in the supply chain.

Throughout the review process, producers in sectors such as horticulture and dairy particularly raised issues regarding their experience with the supermarket sector.

“These changes should fnally give the code the clout it needs to protect farmers.

“It will hopefully mean that farmers can speak up without fear of retribution, and we’ll start to get a clearer picture of the issues at play.”

The NFF said it was disappointing not to see a recommendation to extend coverage of the code beyond supermarkets.

“Throughout the review we raised concerns from the greenlife sector that supplies Bunnings nurseries and argued that relationship should also have been covered by the code.

“We’ll continue to look for ways to better protect those growers in the greenlife sector.”

The NFF thanked Dr Emerson and the Federal Government for their support for farmers through the inquiry.

“We again thank Dr. Emerson for his proactive approach to hearing the concerns of the sector, and look forward working with

From Country to the Classroom: Building Relationships that Empower Teachers, Students, and Communities

UNSW Sydney

Recent research led by UNSW Sydney reveals that taking teachers out of the classroom and onto Country can signifcantly improve schooling experiences for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. The Culturally Nourishing Schooling (CNS) project, developed to build connections and confdence among educators, embeds cultural knowledge and community understandings into classrooms across the state.

The CNS project engages teachers, school leaders, local Aboriginal Cultural Mentors, and community members through strategies aimed at enhancing teacher confdence and improving educational engagement for Aboriginal students.

“This holistic, community-wide approach to education is enabling our CNS schools to boost local connections, build trust between teachers and students, and increase cultural understanding,” says Associate Professor Kevin Lowe, Lead Investigator on the CNS project and Scientia Indigenous Fellow at the School of Education, UNSW Arts, Design &

Architecture.

Four years into the project, teachers report increased confdence to engage more fully and authentically with their Indigenous students, to integrate Aboriginal perspectives into their teaching, and to build relationships with families and community members.

“These changes are transforming students’ learning experiences,” A/Prof.

Lowe says. “Teachers report increased class attendance rates, improved student engagement and eagerness to learn, a renewed sense of cultural pride, and a heightened sense of belonging.”

Building Connection

and Confdence

Learning from Country, a key component of the CNS strategies, encourages teachers to think, act, and relate differently concerning Aboriginal students and the places and histories they are grounded in.

A recent paper published in the Australian Educational Researcher shares insights from the CNS project, documenting the impact of Learning from Country on teachers’ understanding of place and community.

“Learning from Country deepens understanding of local contexts, histories, lived experiences, important socio-historical events, and cultural knowledge,”

says Dr. David Coombs, lead author of the study from the School of Education. “It fosters a sense of belonging and inclusivity and positions Aboriginal people as knowledge holders.”

Previous research indicates that teachers often hesitate to teach Aboriginal content due to their own lack of education. Learning from Country addresses this by connecting teachers to their local areas through Aboriginal relationships to Country and to local families and communities.

“It’s vital to have strong relationships within your school and community so that students feel valued,” says Tracey Kingi,

a Cultural Mentor from Tweed River High School. “When community members come into the school, kids see that and get a real sense that it’s part of their identity. They see familiar faces like Aunties and Uncles, which builds their confdence to engage with their education.”

Expanding the Reach

The CNS team is currently working with eight schools in urban, rural, and remote settings across NSW.

Each year, a cohort of teachers participates in professional learning strategies, beginning with two-day Learning from Country activities led by local Elders and CNS Cultural Mentors.

CNS teachers have reported an increased understanding of and connection to the community and the fundamental importance of Country in learning and teaching.

“Teachers developed a greater appreciation for the diversity within Aboriginal communities and cultures and gained a more nuanced and localised understanding of place, community, and knowledge,” Dr. Coombs explains.

“The Culturally Nourishing Schooling project has been invaluable for building connections with the local community, which has been benefcial not just for early career teachers but for all teachers, especially those new to a community,” says Julia Dimitriadis, a teacher at Matraville Sports High School.

“Building those local connections is essential, and Culturally Nourishing Schooling has been fantastic in helping me do that.”

The initial trial of the CNS model will conclude at the end of 2024. If additional funding is secured, the trial is expected to expand to include new schools across New South Wales, as well as researchers and schools from Victoria and South Australia.

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

Review: A Quiet Place

“A Quiet Place,” directed by John Krasinski, is a masterfully crafted horror-thriller that combines nail-biting suspense with emotional depth, creating an unforgettable cinematic experience. Released in 2018, the flm quickly garnered critical acclaim for its innovative use of sound and its intense, immersive storytelling.

Plot and Setting

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, “A Quiet Place”

follows the Abbott family as they navigate their daily lives in near-total silence to avoid attracting deadly creatures that hunt by sound. The plot is both simple and profoundly effective, leveraging the premise to explore themes of survival, family, and sacrifce.

The setting—a remote, rural landscape— enhances the sense of isolation and vulnerability. The flm’s

meticulous attention to detail in creating a believable, sounddeprived environment is one of its standout features. From sand paths to soundproofed basements, every element serves to draw the audience deeper into the Abbots’ precarious world.

Performance and Characters

The performances in “A Quiet Place” are exceptional, particularly from real-life couple

John Krasinski and Emily Blunt, who play the lead roles of Lee and Evelyn Abbott.

Krasinski’s portrayal of a determined father and Blunt’s depiction of a resilient mother are both compelling and heart-wrenching. Their chemistry adds a layer of authenticity to the family’s struggle.

The child actors, Millicent Simmonds and Noah Jupe, deliver equally strong performances. Simmonds, who is deaf in real life, brings a genuine and poignant touch to the character of Regan, whose deafness plays a crucial role in the family’s dynamics and survival strategies.

Sound Design and Direction

One of the most remarkable aspects of “A Quiet Place” is its innovative use of sound—or the lack

thereof. The flm’s sound design is both a technical achievement and a narrative device. The near-silence heightens tension, making every noise potentially life-threatening. Marco Beltrami’s haunting score complements this, adding to the suspense without overshadowing the quiet.

Krasinski’s direction is confdent and deft, balancing moments of high tension with quieter, more intimate scenes that delve into the characters’ emotional lives. His ability to tell a compelling story with minimal dialogue is impressive, demonstrating a deep understanding of visual storytelling.

Themes and Impact At its core, “A Quiet Place” is a flm about family and the lengths to which parents will go to protect their children.

The horror elements are grounded in this emotional reality, making the characters’ plight all the more relatable and heart-wrenching. The flm also explores themes of communication, trust, and the human spirit’s resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Conclusion

“A Quiet Place” is a standout flm that redefnes the horror genre with its unique premise, exceptional performances, and masterful use of sound. It’s a flm that keeps you on the edge of your seat while also tugging at your heartstrings. John Krasinski has created a cinematic experience that is both terrifying and deeply moving, making “A Quiet Place” a mustwatch for horror fans and anyone who appreciates high-quality flmmaking.

NUMBER CRUNCH

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

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 Who was crowned the Greg Norman Medal winner for a record third time at the 2023 PGA Awards?

(a) Cameron Smith (b) Minjee Lee (c) Jason Day (d) Adam Scott

2 The telencephalon is located in which part of the human body?

(a) Brain (b) Ear (c) Skin (d) Eye

3 Lángos is a popular type of deep-fried dough that originated on which continent? (a) Africa (b) South America (c) North America (d) Europe

4 Tirana is the capital city of which European country?

(a) Slovenia (b) Belarus (c) Montenegro (d) Albania

5 In 2023, who won the reality TV series, The Voice (Australia)? (a) Charlie Pittman (b) Ezra Williams (c) Ethan Beckton (d) Tarryn Stokes

6 Traditional ghillies are usually seen on which of the following things? (a) Feet (b) Doors (c) Zippers (d) Ladders

PUZZLES

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 AMBIGUOUS

(a) Of doubtful nature

(b) Involving both sides

(c) Ready to be won over

2 EXERCITATION

(a) Putting into practice

(b) An attested copy or transcript

(c) Elevation in rank or dignity

3 MOLLIFY

(a) To annoy

(b) To wet slightly

(c) To appease

4 NEOTERIC

(a) Of recent origin

(b) Sorrow-lulling

(c) Newly-born

5 PRIDIAN

(a) Of the first order

(b) Haughty

(c) Pertaining to yesterday

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

BIG BACKYARD QUIZ

SBS & NITV, 7.30pm

In hands with NAIDOC Week, this sprightly game show celebrates all things Australian from a blak perspective. Delving into sport, music, food and people, it’s a lighthearted and playful trek through history that proudly looks at the Australian experience “the way we were not taught in school”. Produced by Spicks and Specks’ Anthony Watt, join hosts Narelda Jacobs (The Point) and Steven Oliver (Black Comedy), both pictured above, with team captains rapper Barkaa and triple j’s Dave Woodhead. As comedic panellists Tom Ballard, Nina Oyama, Ivan Aristeguieta and Tegan Higginbotham battle it out to claim victory, tune in to test your knowledge and have a hearty laugh.

FRIDAY, July 12

SUNDAY LADIES IN BLACK

ABC TV, 8.30pm

Set in early 1960s Sydney, a city on the cusp on change, this decadent production delights with period-perfect details as it draws back the curtain on the lives and loves of the women who work at Goodes Department Store. Ladies in Black harks back to another era with its costumes, sets and social expectations, but also by being an Australian drama series on free-to-air TV – in this day and age, they’re few and far between. With just two episodes to go, this homegrown standout is worth savouring. Tonight, in “Men in Briefs”, Magda (Debi Mazar, pictured right) ropes Angela (Azizi Donnelly) and Lisa (Clare Miles) in on her plans for a bold promotion, while Fay (Jessica De Gouw) struggles with the consequences of her in delity.

TUESDAY MAGGIE BEER’S BIG MISSION

ABC TV, 8.30pm

Since being named Senior Australian of the Year in 2010, food icon Maggie Beer (pictured right) has been a passionate advocate for the wellbeing of the nation’s older people. With nearly 200,000 Australians living in residential aged care – as many as 68 per cent of whom are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition – Maggie has a mammoth task on her hands. In a bid to turn around these shocking statistics, the chef is leading a world- rst experiment that aims to revolutionise the dining experience in a Perth aged-care home. Breakfast is the rst order for Maggie in this second instalment, sharing her porridge recipe with chef Sas before the real test awaits: what will 89-year-old Merle make of the changes?

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

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Rulla’s Cooking On Country. (R) 10.30 That Paci c Sports Show. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Troppo. (Malv, R) 2.00 The Split. (Ml, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Martin Clunes: Islands Of America. (PG, R) 4.45 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 12. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 11.00 Tour De France 2024 Highlights Review. (R) 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 12. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The Point: Road Trip. (R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! (R) 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Tour De France 2024

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Love Your Garden. Presented by Alan Titchmarsh.

8.20 Troppo. (Malv) Ted and Amanda investigate Julian’s neighbours and discover that they harbour a bitter grudge against him.

9.20 Gruen. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson.

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

10.25 Austin. (PG, R)

10.55 ABC Late News.

11.10 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. (R)

12.00 Martin Clunes: Islands Of America. (PG, R)

12.45 We Hunt Together. (Malsv, R)

1.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Ancient Egypt: Top 7 Pyramids. (R) Explores ancient Egypt’s pyramids.

8.30 Nazca Desert Mystery. (PG, R) Takes a look at the Nazca Lines and at recent discoveries that o er new clues to its origins.

9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 13. 2.00 Blackout: Tomorrow Is Too Late. (Mlnv, R) 3.50 Peer To Peer. (PG, R) 4.50 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

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

VICELAND (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. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Operation Ouch! 9.10 O cially Amazing. 9.35 Dragon Ball Super. 10.00 Supernatural Academy. 10.20 The PM’s Daughter. 10.45 Phoenix Rise. 11.45 Good Game Spawn Point. 12.30am Rage. 1.30 TMNT. 2.15 The Legend Of Korra. 2.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

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

8.30 MOVIE: The Dressmaker. (2015, Malsv, R) A woman returns to her home town in the Australian outback as an accomplished dressmaker, determined to take revenge on the townspeople who wronged her. Kate Winslet, Judy Davis, Liam Hemsworth. 10.50 To Be Advised.

12.35 Criminal Confessions: She Never Came Home. (MA15+alv, R)

1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

7TWO (62)

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up. 10.35 MOVIE: Fries! The Movie. (2021, M) 12.10pm WorldWatch. 12.40 Over The Black Dot. 1.30 WorldWatch. 2.00 Tour De France 2024 Highlights Review. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 4.00 WorldWatch. 5.25 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.15 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.35 Travel Man’s Greatest Trips. 9.30 Sex Before The Internet. 10.25 The Lesbian Guide To Straight Sex. 11.20 Late Programs. 6am Home Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The

3.00 Escape To The Country. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes And Gardens. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Mighty Ships. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 19. Cronulla Sharks v Wests Tigers. From PointsBet Stadium, Sydney. 9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Cronulla Sharks versus Wests Tigers match, with NRL news and analysis.

10.30 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 12. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 12 Late. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England.

4.00 Postcards. (PG, R) Radio duo Jase & Lauren give a tour of their “workhood” in South Melbourne.

4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) A professor tries to study Skippy.

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

6.30 The Project. Special guest is Jessica Mauboy. 7.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Hosted by Tom Gleisner. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Guests include Dominic West, Michelle Keegan, Jacob Anderson, Alan Carr and Teddy Swims.

9.30 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a look at the week that was.

10.30 10’s Late News.

10.55 The Project. (R)

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

9GO! (83) 6am Romeo And Juliet. Continued. (2013, PG) 7.40 Jonsson Gang. (2020, PG, Finnish) 10.00 The Tracker. (2002, M) 11.50 Charlie And Boots. (2009, M) 1.45pm Breaker Morant. (1980, PG) 3.45 Skies Of Lebanon. (2020, PG, Italian) 5.30 Goddess. (2013, PG) 7.30 Made In America. (1993, M) 9.35 We Are Still Here. (2022, M) 11.15 The Vourdalak. (2023, French) 12.55am Layer Cake. (2004, MA15+) 2.55 About Last Night. (1986, MA15+) 5.00 Skies Of Lebanon. (2020, PG, Italian)

6am Children’s Programs. 12.30pm Ben Fogle: Starting Up Starting Over. 1.30 Bewitched. 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: Penguins Of Madagascar. (2014) 7.30 MOVIE: Night At The Museum: Battle Of The Smithsonian. (2009, PG) 9.40 MOVIE: Caddyshack. (1980, M) 11.40 MOVIE: Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment. (1985, M) 1.30am Full House. 2.00 Sur ng Australia TV. 2.30 Bakugan: Evolutions.

(52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Children’s Programs. 11.00 Car S.O.S.

PEACH

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

BIG CROSSWORD

TARGET TIME

R I A

L B I

N

R A

Today’s target: 5 words average 7 words good

10+ words excellent

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

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

The planetary patterns highlight freedom, education, adventure and creative projects. If you pace yourself and prioritise, then you’ll get things done without feeling rushed and frazzled. It’s also a good week to socialise with family members and neighbours, as you participate in some lively and stimulating conversations. But avoid getting drawn into an intense argument (especially with children and friends) where you end up saying things that you later regret.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Careful communication is the key to an enjoyable week for Bulls. Venus and Uranus encourage you to release old grudges and let bygones be bygones. Plus, Mercury and Jupiter urge you to work through domestic dramas and family squabbles in a proactive and diplomatic way. Your motto is from birthday great, writer Marcel Proust: “Let us be grateful to people who make us happy, they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.”

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

Don’t allow a loved one to manipulate you, as they try to persuade you to do something against your better judgment. Have the emotional strength (and common sense) to stand your ground and say: no. With your ruler Mercury (and Venus) transiting through fiery Leo, you’ve got energy to burn but make sure you channel it into productive pursuits. Mental activities and current affairs are favoured, as you pick up information with lightning speed.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Avoid getting drawn into dramatic disputes with family and friends, especially involving money and/or possessions. This week will work best if you keep your Crab claws out of other people’s business and concentrate on pursuing personal projects instead. Thursday is the best day of the week, when the Sun and Venus (both in Cancer) form fabulous aspects with Saturn and Neptune. So it’s a good day to focus your energy and follow creative pursuits.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

Thursday’s Sun/Saturn trine is fabulous for focused thought, good judgement, creative work and making the most of golden opportunities that come your way. But the more stubborn and arrogant you are (especially on Friday and Saturday) the more likely you’ll get drawn into an argument, either in person or online. With people-pleasing Venus visiting your sign (from Friday until August 5) it’s time for lots of Leo charm and an extra dollop of diplomacy.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Your very discreet Virgo nature is emphasised, as Mercury (your power planet) moves from your peer group zone into your solitude zone. Make it a priority to connect with like-minded people who understand your particular peccadillos and strong need for privacy. But a loved one could be temperamental, so handle them with extra care. Things aren’t as straight-forward as they seem. Don’t skip over the details – get someone you trust to help you out.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22) Monday’s invigorating Venus/Uranus link encourages a work breakthrough or a brandnew friendship. Then the Venus/Neptune trine is fabulous for creative and spiritual pursuits. But Friday’s Venus/Pluto opposition could stir up a complicated romance or a childhood jealousy. With Venus (your patron planet) and Mercury visiting your peer group zone, a dash of diplomacy and improved communication skills will help smooth over a troubled friendship.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You’re keen to call the shots this week but domineering behaviour will only lead to unpleasant dramas (especially on Friday) so slip on your humility hat instead. And don’t underestimate your ability to inspire others. Coupled Scorpios – with Jupiter transiting through your intimacy zone, a frustrating problem with your partner could finally be resolved. Singles –Cupid’s love arrows are most likely to strike while you are working, studying or travelling.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are your best days, when Jupiter (your boss planet) makes positive connections with Mercury and your Destiny Point. So it’s the perfect time to make a list of your future goals and surround yourself with positive people. Your motto is from fellow Sagittarian, writer Mark Twain: “Keep away from people who belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you too can become great.”

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

The Sun, Venus and Uranus activate creative projects and fire up romance, but the Venus/Pluto opposition could complicate a close relationship. So aim to be creative and compassionate – but also robust and resilient. Then the bumps along the road will make you stronger. It’s also a good week to become more involved with volunteer projects and philanthropic pursuits. When it comes to your local community, shake off your shyness and get involved.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

This week Pluto (transiting through your sign) opposes Mercury, which could stir up your contrary nature. If you must disagree with other people, then try to do so in a respectful and constructive way. The Venus/Uranus link also revs up your bohemian side, as you question authority and express your Aquarian quirkiness. Your mantra for the moment is from suffragette (and birthday great) Emmeline Pankhurst: “I would rather be a rebel than a slave.”

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Are you running on empty? Perceptive Pisceans will strive to get the ratio right between being on top of things at work, while still having time to rest, reflect and recharge your run-down batteries. Balance is the key. But relations with a loved one or work colleague could be stressful and problematic later in the week, particularly if you try to control an uncontrollable situation. So expect the unexpected and keep your adaptability muscles well-flexed!

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

Review by Jeff Gibbs

“Tulsa King,” a captivating series created by Taylor Sheridan and starring Sylvester Stallone, delivers a refreshing take on the crime drama genre, blending elements of humour, action, and deep character development.

The show, set in the heart of Tulsa, Oklahoma, follows the journey of Dwight “The General” Manfredi, a New York mafa capo who, after serving a 25-year prison sentence, fnds himself exiled by his boss to establish operations in Tulsa.

Plot and Setting

The plot is intriguing from the outset, with Dwight’s transition from the bustling streets of New York to the quieter, yet no less dangerous, surroundings of Tulsa.

This fsh-out-of-water narrative provides a unique backdrop for the series, allowing for

Review: Despicable Me 4

The fourth instalment in the beloved “Despicable Me” franchise, “Despicable Me 4,” brings back the whimsical charm and humour that fans have come to expect while introducing new characters and adventures that keep the series fresh and entertaining.

Plot and Setting

In “Despicable Me 4,” we reunite with Gru, the former supervillain turned loving father, and his endearing family, including his wife Lucy, their three adopted daughters Margo, Edith, and Agnes, and, of

a blend of rural and urban crime dynamics.

The setting of Tulsa, with its rich history and culture, adds depth to the storyline, creating a distinct atmosphere that is both gritty and picturesque.

Performance and Characters

Sylvester Stallone, in his frst leading role in a television series, delivers a powerful performance as Dwight Manfredi. Stallone brings a mix of gravitas and vulnerability to the character, portraying Dwight as a man trying to navigate a new world while staying true to his old ways. His portrayal is nuanced, capturing the complexities of a seasoned mobster who is both ruthless and refective.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from actors who play Dwight’s new and old associates. The

course, the mischievous Minions. This time, the storyline delves into a new challenge as Gru faces a cunning new villain threatening world peace. The plot expertly balances action, comedy, and heartfelt moments, maintaining the series’ signature blend of adventure and emotion.

The settings range from the familiar suburban neighbourhood to exotic locations around the globe, providing a visually dynamic backdrop for the characters’ antics. The animation quality continues to impress, with vibrant colours and intricate details that bring the world of

ensemble cast brings to life a diverse array of characters, each with their own motivations and backstories. This richness in character development adds layers to the narrative, making each episode engaging and unpredictable.

Writing and Direction

Taylor Sheridan, known for his work on “Yellowstone” and “Sicario,” continues to showcase his talent for storytelling in “Tulsa King.” The writing is sharp, with well-crafted dialogues that balance humour and tension effectively. The series does an excellent job of exploring themes such as loyalty, redemption, and the clash between old and new worlds.

The direction is topnotch, with a strong visual style that captures the essence of Tulsa. The use of local settings and landscapes enhances the storytelling, providing a vivid backdrop that

“Despicable Me” to life. Characters and Performances

Steve Carell returns as the voice of Gru, delivering a performance that captures the character’s unique blend of gruffness and warmth. Kristen Wiig as Lucy remains a delightful counterpart to Gru, and their chemistry adds depth to their on-screen relationship.

The Minions, voiced by co-director Pierre Coffn, continue to steal the show with their hilarious and chaotic escapades. Their nonsensical language and slapstick humour provide plenty of laugh-out-loud moments that will appeal

complements the narrative. The pacing is well-maintained, with each episode building on the previous one, keeping viewers hooked throughout.

Themes and Impact “Tulsa King” is more than just a crime drama; it is a story about adaptation, survival, and the pursuit of relevance in an ever-changing world. Dwight’s journey mirrors the struggles of many who fnd themselves at a crossroads, trying to reconcile their past with an uncertain future. This thematic depth adds a layer of relatability, making the series resonate on a personal level with its audience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “Tulsa King” is a compelling series that stands out in the crowded landscape of crime dramas. With strong performances, particularly from Sylvester Stallone, and

to both children and adults.

The new villain, voiced by a notable actor (to be revealed in the movie), adds a fresh dynamic to the story, presenting a formidable yet entertaining adversary for Gru and his family.

Themes and Impact

“Despicable Me 4” explores themes of family, redemption, and the importance of standing up for what is right. Gru’s journey from villainy to heroism is further developed, emphasizing the positive impact of love and family on personal growth.

The flm also touches on the idea of legacy, as Gru grapples with his past and the infuence it has on his daughters. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, providing emotional depth without overshadowing the fun and humour.

Direction and Animation

The direction by the creative team at Illumination

Entertainment ensures that “Despicable Me 4” stays true to the spirit of the franchise while introducing new elements that keep it engaging. The pacing

excellent writing and direction, the show offers a fresh and engaging narrative that keeps viewers invested from start to fnish. Whether you are a fan of crime dramas or just looking for a well-crafted story, “Tulsa King” is defnitely worth a watch. Available Series 1 on Ten Play and Paramount Plus

is brisk, with a good balance of action sequences and characterdriven scenes.

The animation is top-notch, with fuid movements and expressive character designs that enhance the storytelling. The Minions, in particular, beneft from the highquality animation, allowing for more intricate and humorous visual gags.

Conclusion

“Despicable Me 4” is a delightful addition to the franchise, offering a perfect mix of humor, heart, and adventure.

Fans of the series will appreciate the return of beloved characters and the introduction of new ones, while newcomers will fnd it an entertaining and accessible entry point. With its strong performances, engaging plot, and impressive animation, “Despicable Me 4” is a must-watch for families and animation enthusiasts alike. The flm reaffrms the franchise’s place as a beloved staple in animated cinema, promising plenty of laughs and warm moments for viewers of all ages.

Starter Gun Fires on Mossman Cane Crush

By Robert Heyward

The sight of cane harvesters roaring to life in paddocks across Queensland’s northernmost district has brought immense relief to Mossman growers. A one-year commercial deal between the growers and MSF Sugar has fnally enabled the 2024 cane crush to commence.

Following months of delicate negotiations with the State Government, trucks have started hauling Mossman cane 100 kilometres down the Captain Cook Highway to MSF’s Mulgrave Mill in Gordonvale.

The crushing began on Monday after a recent breakthrough in discussions between CANEGROWERS, MSF Sugar, the Queensland

Government, and the local Douglas Shire Council. The State Government has committed to covering half of the transport costs for this year’s crop, ensuring the process could move forward.

Dan Galligan, CEO of CANEGROWERS,

welcomed the start of Mossman’s crush, noting that the sight of harvesters cutting cane would alleviate the anxiety of the region’s sugarcane growers, at least for now.

“Growers have invested over $15 million into the crop so far, plus they

are facing additional transport costs.

Achieving an economic return from the crop is critical to their future options,” Mr. Galligan said.

“Since the Mossman Mill went into administration last November,

CANEGROWERS has been working tirelessly, both locally and at a state level, to fnd a solution that would enable growers to get this year’s crop crushed, while also seeking a longer-term future for the Mossman mill.

“It has been a long and

diffcult process, but it’s pleasing to see a positive outcome for this year’s crop. Hopefully, the rest of the season runs smoothly.”

Despite this progress, Mr. Galligan acknowledged that there is still much work to be done, with local growers and industry stakeholders determined to secure the future of the Mossman industry.

“We haven’t given up on the local sugarcane industry in Mossman, and we won’t,” Mr. Galligan affrmed.

“We’re working closely with the local council, chamber of commerce, State Government, and other industry stakeholders to explore all possible avenues to continue supporting the industry moving forward.”

Wet Conditions Across the Murray-Darling Basin in 2022-23 Keep Water Availability High, ACCC Report Shows

Wet conditions throughout the MurrayDarling Basin in 2022-23 have kept water availability high, while regulated water charges have varied signifcantly due to different tariff structures and cost recovery approaches by each Basin State, according to the ACCC’s annual water monitoring report.

The ACCC monitors regulated water charges imposed by monopoly infrastructure providers in the Basin and oversees the ‘transformation’ arrangements that enable irrigators to convert irrigation rights into standalone water access entitlements.

The report highlights that in 2022-23, irrigators transformed small volumes of irrigation rights. Additionally, the proportion of water delivery rights traded or terminated across the Basin was minimal, as reported to the ACCC.

“It is important stakeholders are kept informed of changes in regulated water charges and market arrangements in the Basin,” said ACCC Deputy Chair Mick Keogh. Key Focus Areas and Compliance

The ACCC also focuses on monitoring compliance with water rules by infrastructure operators providing water delivery services in the Basin, many of whom operate as effective monopolies in geographically exclusive areas.

“The ACCC monitors infrastructure operators’ compliance with the Water Act to ensure their activities do not unnecessarily restrict the transformation of irrigation rights, the trading of water access entitlements, or impose unreasonable costs on water users,” Keogh added.

In 2022-23, the ACCC received three

complaints and nine enquiries related to water matters. This continued decline in complaints since 2018-19 indicates that most infrastructure operators understand and comply with the water rules.

Hypothetical Bills and Transparency

The ACCC’s analysis includes the preparation of ‘hypothetical bills’ estimating irrigators’ annual charges for various water entitlement and delivery scenarios from on-river (bulk) operators and irrigation infrastructure operators.

“Transparency assists water users to understand the charges they are paying, enables water markets to work effciently, and helps policymakers assess the impact of reforms to the regulatory framework,” Keogh said.

State-by-State Overview

The report, structured by state, highlights the substantial differences in

regulated water charges between Basin states and the signifcant impact of state government policies on ‘on-river’ typical bills.

Queensland

Hypothetical on-river bills for Sunwater’s irrigation customers in 2022-23 were 0.2% to 7% higher than in 2021-22. The Queensland Government applied a 15% discount to recommended charges and provided horticulturalists with an additional 35% discount.

New South Wales

Hypothetical on-river bills in New South Wales rose by an average of 11-12%. This follows a substantial rise of 59% for general security water access entitlements in 2021-22, with more moderate increases in 2022-23.

Victoria

Charges levied by Goulburn-Murray Water and Lower Murray Water in Victoria have risen by less than infation since

2019-20, resulting in a decrease in real terms.

High water storage levels and substantial rainfall in 2022-23 reduced the demand for irrigation water.

South Australia

Typical bills for private diverters and customers of the Central Irrigation Trust and Renmark Irrigation Trust in South Australia fell in real terms. However, charges levied by SA Water on its transportation customers were higher than any other regulated water charges monitored by the ACCC, refecting the higher cost of service.

Trading Water: Transformations and Terminations

In 2022-23, the transformation or termination of water delivery rights constituted a very small proportion of the rights on issue. Exceptional fooding, due to above-average rainfall, signifcantly impacted

water delivery volumes. Rainfall from August to October 2022 was the highest on record in large parts of New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland, and the volume of water fowing into the River Murray system in November and December 2022 was the largest recorded in 127 years. Consequently, the volume of water delivered by irrigation infrastructure operators decreased by 10% from 2021-22.

Government Initiatives In 2023, the Australian Government conducted a tender to purchase 44.3 gigalitres per year for environmental uses. This initiative may increase transformation and termination volumes in 2023-24 and if further buybacks are undertaken in future years.

For more detailed insights and to access the full report, visit the ACCC website.

By Helen Trustum

The frst ferry which started operating in 1899 was a hand operated toll ferry. The ferry charges were threepence for a horse and sulky and a penny for a foot passenger. It seemed slow progress in providing a river crossing, considering other progress in the town. A brick school was built in 1880, a Police Station was also built in 1884 and in 1885 work had started on the Tuckombil Canal.

In 1902, the hand operated ferry was replaced by a steam driven craft, powered by a Clyde single cylinder steam engine. This ferry served for 58 years. It carried both passengers and livestock as in those days most cattle were driven i.e. herded to walk to their destination. Many tales have been told of cattle escaping or fed into nearby shops. The only maintenance required was the facing of the valves and piston rods. Not only did it give a wonderful service, but it was so economical to operate. The boiler burned about two cords of wood per week. A cord of wood is a stack of wood measuring 128 cubic feet. The wood was then cut in four feet lengths and was stacked in a heap. This

amount of wood cost ten shillings (one dollar), delivered to the ferry.

To commemorate the occasion of the new ferry in 1902, several bunya pines were planted on the northern bank of the river and are still fourishing there today.

A very sad time occurred in the February 1951 food when cattle had to be moved to high ground. A mob of cattle were loaded onto the Woodburn Ferry and when they shifted to one end it caused the ferry to sink along with passenger Marie Robinson who was trapped in the cabin and drowned.

Regattas and boat racing were very popular on the river. Many World Championships and Australian Championships were contested and won by

locals.

In 1957, with the traffc increasing, the Department of Main Roads decided they

the ferry was designed for Woodburn, the Department were forced to send it to Burns Point for three years to

needed a larger ferry. This ferry came from Grafton. The ferry was towed from the Clarence River to Riley’s Hill Dock on the Richmond River. A diesel motor was installed. Although

relieve the traffc, till a new ferry was built in Brisbane and delivered. When a new bridge was mentioned there was great excitement for all. It took a few years to see before it was built.

remain a lasting treasure. The ferry at Woodburn was a great attraction to tourists where many would stop over for a picnic on the riverbank, so the children could have a ride on the ferry.

Now 125 years on from when they started running the ferry in 1899 over the Richmond River at Woodburn, the bridge was well worth waiting for. As well as an item of beauty it is a practical addition to anyone.

On 9th October 1981, the offcial opening took place.

The new bridge at Woodburn was a great example of Department of Main Roads, along with two Councils, Richmond River Council and Lismore City Council all working together. Special guest for the bridge opening, was the Governor of New South Wales Sir James Rowland. He quoted as saying “That the bridge would be an economic value to the residents of Woodburn and District”.

The annual cost of the ferry was more than $70,000 and other costs, such as inconvenience for residents of Woodburn must be added to the fgure. The new bridge, a graceful reinforced concrete span 216.6 metres long will

Memories: Allan Trustum - One particular day back in 1960, when I was driving a mob of cattle home to Kilgin for Alec Robinson from New Italy, the unforgettable happened. Those days all cattle had to be driven around the back of Woodburn, then up to Redwoods corner before you entered onto the Woodburn Ferry. This day one cow broke away and entered Redwoods Store. Doug Carmichael who worked at the store chased her out with his broom before a lot of damage was done. Ferry Drivers: Lionel Newman, John Day, Reg West, Jim Haynes, Colin Sauer, Warren Robinson, Ref: Northern Star, Extracts from Souvenir Booklet printed at the time of Bridge Opening – 1981.

Woodburn Ferry

Woodburn Ferry - 1930’s

Woodburn Ferry - 1979

Building Woodburn Bridge in 1980 with Woodburn Ferry in the background. Photo courtesy Peggy O’Conner

Woodburn Bridge Opening Day 9/10/1981 Governor of NSW Sir James Rowland and Mayor of Richmond River Council Mr George Wagner.

The Best of two great worlds - Woodburn Ferry and the new Bridge. Photo taken on 9/10/1981

Parliamentarians Urged to Protect Family Farms from Proposed ‘Super Tax’

By Rob Heyward

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is calling on Senate crossbenchers to scrutinize the proposed changes to superannuation taxation, which could adversely affect thousands of family farms across Australia.

Concerns Raised by Key Senators NFF Acting CEO

Charlie Thomas welcomed reports that Senate crossbenchers David Pocock and Jacqui Lambie have expressed concerns about the legislation.

“We are calling on other parliamentarians to join in addressing the potential negative impact on family farms,” Thomas stated.

Call for Amendments to Superannuation Tax Bill

The NFF urges Parliament to amend the Federal Government’s Treasury Laws Amendment (Better Targeted Superannuation Concessions and Other Measures) Bill 2023,

which is currently before the Lower House. The organization advocates for the exemption of primary production assets from the legislation, highlighting the unique fnancial arrangements of many family farms.

Impact on Family Farms

Thomas emphasized that many older farmers hold their farms in self-managed super funds (SMSFs) and lease them to their children, generating retirement income while allowing the next generation to

farm. He warned that the proposed increases in taxation rates, including the treatment of ‘unrealised gains’ on holdings, could force farmers to sell land assets to pay the tax bill.

“This may leave farmers with a terrible choice: sell the farm to meet these new tax and liquidity obligations or increase their lease rates so much that their own children and grandchildren can’t afford it and leave the industry,” Thomas said. The proposed changes could impact thousands

of farmers from Tasmania to Northern Australia.

Government’s Position and NFF’s Response

The Government has indicated that the bill targets the wealthiest superannuation accounts, but Thomas argued that hard-working family farms should not be included in this category.

“If that truly is the case, the Government should have no issue supporting amendments that ensure this legislation does not impact farming families,” he added.

Evidence from Senate

Inquiry

A Senate inquiry echoed the NFF’s concerns. The SMSF Association estimated that over 17,000 accounts held farming land in 2021/22, with more than 3,500 potentially affected by the new tax. This fgure could rise if the Government does not index the base threshold.

The SMSF Association warned that farmers and small business operators with land owned by their SMSF could face signifcant liquidity pressures, possibly

leading to forced asset sales to pay liabilities. Similar concerns were raised by The Tax Institute, Financial Advice Association of Australia, and the Institute of Financial Professionals Australia. Parliamentary Debate and Call for Action

The Lower House debate highlighted the need to address these issues. The NFF expressed gratitude to members of the House of Representatives, including many crossbenchers, who have raised concerns about the bill’s impact on the farming sector.

“As the Bill continues its passage through Parliament, we urge parliamentarians on all sides to listen to the concerns of Australian farmers and fnancial professionals and make appropriate amendments to the Bill to exclude primary production assets from the calculation of superannuation balances,” Thomas concluded.

Starter Gun Fires on Mossman Cane Crush

By Robert Heyward

The sight of cane harvesters roaring to life in paddocks across Queensland’s northernmost district has brought immense relief to Mossman growers. A one-year commercial deal between the growers and MSF Sugar has fnally enabled the 2024 cane crush to commence.

Following months of delicate negotiations with the State Government, trucks have started hauling Mossman cane 100 kilometres down the Captain Cook Highway to MSF’s Mulgrave Mill in Gordonvale.

The crushing began on Monday after a recent breakthrough in discussions between CANEGROWERS, MSF Sugar, the Queensland Government, and the local Douglas Shire

Council. The State Government has committed to covering half of the transport costs for this year’s crop, ensuring the process could move forward.

Dan Galligan, CEO of CANEGROWERS, welcomed the start of Mossman’s crush, noting that the sight of harvesters cutting cane would alleviate the anxiety of the region’s sugarcane growers, at least for now.

“Growers have invested over $15 million into the crop so far, plus they are facing additional

transport costs. Achieving an economic return from the crop is critical to their future options,” Mr. Galligan said.

“Since the Mossman Mill went into administration last November, CANEGROWERS has been working tirelessly, both locally and at a state level, to fnd a solution that would enable growers to get this year’s crop crushed, while also seeking a longer-term future for the Mossman mill.

“It has been a long and

diffcult process, but it’s pleasing to see a positive

outcome for this year’s crop. Hopefully, the rest of the season runs smoothly.”

Despite this progress, Mr. Galligan acknowledged that there is still much work to be done, with local growers and industry stakeholders determined to secure the future of the Mossman industry.

“We haven’t given up

on the local sugarcane industry in Mossman, and we won’t,” Mr. Galligan affrmed.

“We’re working closely with the local council, chamber of commerce, State Government, and other industry stakeholders to explore all possible avenues to continue supporting the industry moving forward.”

Increased Milk Production: Research in Commercial Dairy Shows Benefts of Microbials

New scientifc research conducted on a commercial dairy herd has demonstrated the positive impact of the microbial supplement MYLO® on milk production and liveweight gain, providing cows with a better foundation for successful lactation. Developed by the innovative biologicals company Terragen, MYLO® is an easyto-use liquid feed supplement containing a proprietary blend of live microbes, including Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus buchneri, and Lactobacillus paracasei, designed to enhance cow health and productivity.

The study, published in the international peer-reviewed journal Animals, tracked the performance of 150 milking cows in Harrisville, Queensland, over 16 months.

According to Terragen’s chief operating offcer and veterinarian, Dr. Joss West, “This study is the frst to investigate the effect of uninterrupted supplementation of a Lactobacillus direct-fed microbial (MYLO®) over two lactation cycles in a commercial setting. Using a commercial property with university collaboration meant we could reliably test the product in conditions comparable to what farmers would see in

their own herds.”

The Holstein cows involved in the study were fed a partial mixed ration during the day and grazed on pasture at night. Of the 150 cows, 75 received a daily 10 ml dose of MYLO® Cow. Researchers recorded the milk production and liveweight gain of the cows from September 2021 to January 2023, covering the mid-lactation of the frst production year (2021/22) through the dry period and into late lactation of the second production year (2022/23).

Findings Show Benefts for Health and Production

The benefts

of MYLO® supplementation became particularly evident after calving. In the second production year, cows fed the supplement produced an average of 0.39 liters more milk per day compared to those that did not receive the supplement. Dr. West noted, “That’s a three percent increase in the frst 100 days in milk and a predicted increase in milk production of 258 litres per cow over a full lactation for the cows supplemented with MYLO®. The results show that using microbials can have a signifcant impact on production, improving proftability on farm.”

In addition to increased

milk production, cows fed MYLO® gained an average of 19.4 kilograms more liveweight over the study period. Crucially, in the critical period after calving, these cows lost less weight than the control group, maintained better body condition, and recovered bodyweight sooner.

“Cows face signifcant metabolic stress after calving and energy demands are greatly increased due to the start of lactation. Body condition management is key to ensuring the cow has enough energy stores to contribute to increased milk production as well as recovering from calving.

It’s well documented that body condition also contributes to reproductive performance,” explained Dr. West. “We believe our microbes enhance ruminal digestion, ensuring the cow is getting the most from her diet.”

Both the control group of cows, which received no additive, and the group fed MYLO® were managed identically, with daily recordings of milk yield and liveweight.

For more information on Terragen’s research and products, visit their website https://www. terragen.com.au/

Horticulture Industry Applauds Supermarket Reform Efforts

By Ian Rogers

The NFF Horticulture Council has expressed its approval for both the fnal report by Dr. Craig Emerson, resulting from his review of the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct, and the Federal Government’s response to this report.

The fnal report builds upon an earlier interim report by Dr. Emerson, which already included frm recommendations for making the Code mandatory, introducing signifcant penalties for non-compliance, and establishing a more accessible dispute resolution process.

NFF Horticulture Council Chair, Jolyon Burnett, expressed the industry’s gratitude for Dr. Emerson’s

work, stating that they would take time to thoroughly review both his recommendations and the Government’s response before providing a detailed reply.

“At face value, we see benefts in requiring grocery agreements to include the basis for determining prices, ensuring supermarket forecasts of required volumes are conducted with due care, and that produce standards and specifcations must be reasonable,” Mr. Burnett said.

“An updated Code, based on the recommendations accepted by the Government, would be a signifcant improvement over the current one.”

Expectations across

the horticulture industry have been high since Dr. Emerson’s interim report recognized the vulnerability of growers due to the perishable nature of fresh produce. He called for further submissions on additional protections, measures, or obligations to address this market power imbalance.

In response, the Council and its members proposed several practical recommendations that impose minimal burdens or restrictions on trading parties while providing substantial benefts in terms of transparency and fairness.

“At this stage, some of these measures to further protect fresh produce growers appear to have been left on the

table by Dr. Emerson. These include creating a role for independent assessors to help resolve disagreements concerning fresh produce specifcations, requiring supermarkets to report publicly and to suppliers on the accuracy of their volume forecasting, and removing rebates entirely,” Mr. Burnett noted.

“Additionally, we believe supermarkets should be prohibited, without exception, from charging suppliers for costs beyond their control, such as wastage after the transfer of ownership.”

Mr. Burnett also expressed disappointment that Dr. Emerson’s recommendations did not include bringing

Bunnings under the Code, despite acknowledging the inequities faced by greenlife growers supplying Bunnings. He emphasized this missed opportunity to extend protection to greenlife growers and ensure that Bunnings does not abuse its power.

“However, we are encouraged by the Government’s response, which expresses concern about the allegations of retailer conduct towards suppliers of nursery plants, especially those with signifcant bargaining power, and has committed to monitoring their conduct.”

“Bunnings is now on notice to negotiate a fairer trading environment for

greenlife growers.”

Refecting on the broader impact of this journey, Mr. Burnett highlighted that the Australian public now has a clear understanding of the unfair deals growers face with supermarkets and Bunnings. He emphasized the rare opportunity to reform markets to better support growers and ensure they receive fair compensation for their risks.

“The devil, as they say, will be in the detail. And any result is not yet guaranteed. The Council’s focus will now shift to engaging with the Government on the process of drafting the updated Code,” he concluded.

Relax, have a break and enjoy BRISBANE

Enjoy good times in the CBD

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

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

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

Vietnam, a captivating country in Southeast Asia, offers a diverse tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and experiences that beckon travellers from all corners of the globe. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil beauty of Halong Bay, Vietnam promises an unforgettable journey for those who seek adventure, history, and natural splendour.

Hanoi

Start your Vietnamese adventure in Hanoi, the capital city. Hanoi is a vibrant blend of ancient traditions and modern charm. The Old Quarter, with its narrow streets and bustling markets, is a treasure trove of history. Here, you can explore ancient temples, colonial architecture, and sample some of the best street food in the world. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene oasis in the heart of the city, and the nearby Ngoc Son Temple, which sits on a small island in the lake.

The city’s culinary

scene is a highlight for many travellers. From the famous pho (noodle soup) to bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), Hanoi’s food is a delicious introduction to Vietnamese cuisine. Join a street food tour to savour the local delicacies and learn about the history and culture behind each dish.

Halong Bay

A few hours’ drive from Hanoi lies Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands and islets. A cruise through Halong Bay is a must-do. You can choose from a range of options, from luxury cruises to budget-friendly junk boats. Spend your days kayaking through hidden lagoons, exploring caves like the stunning Sung Sot Cave, and enjoying the breathtaking sunsets from the deck of your boat.

Halong Bay is also an ideal place for water activities. Whether you’re interested in

diving, snorkelling, or simply swimming, the bay offers a variety of options to explore its crystal-clear waters.

The picturesque setting, with towering karst formations and tranquil beaches, makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Hoi An

Further south, Hoi An is a charming ancient town that has preserved its historical architecture and traditions. Once a major port, Hoi An is now a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved buildings and lantern-lit streets. Wander through the town’s narrow alleys, visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and explore the numerous tailor shops where you can have custom-made clothing at a fraction of the cost in the West.

Hoi An is also famous for its culinary classes. Many local restaurants offer cooking classes where you can learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes

like banh xeo (crispy pancakes) and cao lau (pork noodles). The town’s riverside setting provides a picturesque backdrop for dining, and the night markets are a vibrant spot to sample local snacks and shop for souvenirs.

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta, located in the southern part of Vietnam, is a lush, fertile region crisscrossed by a network of rivers and canals. Life in the Delta is intimately tied to the water, and a visit here offers a glimpse into the rural heart of Vietnam. Take a boat tour to navigate the maze of waterways, visit foating markets where vendors sell their goods from boats, and explore traditional villages where you can see rice paddies, fruit orchards, and local handicrafts.

Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta, is a good base for exploring the region. From here, you can visit the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, where

you can sample fresh tropical fruits and enjoy a breakfast of noodle soup from a boat vendor. The Delta is also home to a diverse ecosystem, and eco-tours offer the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including birds, fsh, and reptiles.

Ho Chi Minh City

End your journey in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest city. This bustling metropolis is a blend of modern skyscrapers and historical sites. The War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels provide a sobering look at Vietnam’s history, while the Ben Thanh Market is a lively spot for shopping and experiencing the local culture.

The city’s nightlife is vibrant, with rooftop bars offering stunning views, and a variety of restaurants serving both Vietnamese and international cuisine.

Don’t miss a visit to the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Saigon Central Post Offce, both architectural

landmarks. Practical Tips for Travellers

When traveling in Vietnam, it’s essential to be mindful of cultural norms. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can also go a long way in enhancing your travel experience. The local currency is the Vietnamese dong, and cash is preferred in many places, although credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities. Vietnam is a country that offers something for every traveller. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage make it an ideal destination for your next journey. Embrace the spirit of exploration and let Vietnam’s beauty and hospitality leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.

Rising Costs Create Uncertainty for Australia’s Breweries

By Jeff Gibbs

Australia’s breweries are increasingly calling for government support as rising costs force many craft brewers to the brink of closure. Smaller

near liquidation. Industry veteran Nick Boots is now striving to revive the business despite the challenging environment.

“Everything involved in the business is going up exponentially from 10,

like Capital Brewing Co. are feeling the pressure. “Our costs have risen almost out of control,” said co-founder and managing director Laurence Kain. “Our electricity bill has gone

Rising Costs Across the Board

Since before the pandemic, prices for materials and production costs have surged. High inflation has driven up the alcohol tax, with

operators, such as Black Hops Brewing on the Gold Coast, have faced

20, 30 per cent in some cases,” Boots said.

Even larger brewers

from $4,500 a month to almost $12,000 a month over the last two years.”

beer excises increasing by almost 8 percent in the past 12 months and

17 percent since the pandemic began. “Fortyfour percent of the cost of your beer is excise tax,” Kain noted.

Kylie Lethbridge of the Independent Brewers Association pointed out that Australia has the third highest beer taxation in the world.

“The federal government are the ones that can help,” Lethbridge said. Impact on Breweries

Rising costs are pushing many of Australia’s nearly 700 brewers to the brink.

Breweries are urging the government to revise taxes to help lower rising costs and the price of beer. A government spokesperson responded, saying this is the “usual, legislated, automatic indexation change” and that they “listen respectfully to ideas but these have to be weighed up against other priorities and within the budgetary constraints.”

As the situation continues to impact the industry, brewers are hoping for meaningful government intervention to ensure their survival.

“I’ve gotta say it does feel at the moment that the government uses the industry as an absolute cash cow,” Boots remarked. “I would suggest we’ve probably lost 5 percent, but there’s nothing stopping another 20 percent of that 700 going by the wayside if there’s not some significant change.”

Super Members Council: Boost in Superannuation Savings for Millions of Australians

Starting July 1, over 9.2 million Australians will see an increase in their superannuation savings due to an automatic rise in the Super Guarantee rate from 11 percent to 11.5 percent. This change translates to an additional $340 in employer-paid super contributions annually for the average Australian worker.

For a typical 30-year-old, the 0.5 percent increase in the Superannuation Guarantee could amount to an extra $17,570 at retirement. With next year’s planned increase to 12 percent, this figure could grow to $34,000.

Super Members Council CEO Misha Schubert underscored the significance of these incremental increases. “Each of these increases might be small, but they are mighty – thanks to the power of compounding returns inside super over our working lives. This latest super boost will mean thousands more for millions of

everyday Australians at retirement,” said Schubert.

“In retirement, this money will fund extra basics - or perhaps a trip away, dinners out, the ability to spoil the grandkids, or even a bit

investment capital to Australian companies and – most importantly - gives millions of Australians a better life at retirement.”

Ahead of the July 1 increase, the Super Members Council

lower incomes would experience the most significant benefits.

Key Findings from the Super Members Council Analysis:

• Beneficiaries: 9.27 million people will receive a super boost

seeing the largest boosts.

• Income Brackets: A third of those receiving the increase earn less than $50,000 per year, and almost 60% earn less than $75,000 annually.

• Regional Impact: The average West

more financial freedom and peace of mind,” she added. “Our super system is the envy of the world because it lifts the retirement savings of Australians, takes the pressure off the taxpayerfunded pension, delivers

analysed large-scale de-identified tax and Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data to identify those who would benefit most from the boost. The analysis showed that younger Australians and those on

this year, nearly evenly split between men (4.7 million) and women (4.5 million).

• Age Distribution: Over half of those receiving the increase are under 40, with individuals in their 30s

Australian will receive an extra $367 this year, the highest average super boost among the states.

• Occupations: 2.1 million professionals and nearly 2.7 million tradies, machine operators, and labourers

will benefit from the increase.

The Super Guarantee plays a crucial role in funding the retirement of Australia’s aging population. Before compulsory super was introduced in 1993, only 10 percent of retirees listed super as an income source. Now, about 90 percent of people aged between 30 and 50 have superannuation.

As more people retire with superannuation savings, the reliance on the taxpayer-funded age pension decreases. Currently, the number of people on the full and part-pension is steadily declining, with superannuation now disbursing more benefits than the pension.

Despite the projected doubling of over-65s by 2063 and a tripling of those aged over 85, the Intergenerational Report indicates that the age pension’s cost will decline from 2.3 percent of GDP to 2 percent by 2062-63, even as other costs associated with an aging population rise.

By Ian Rogers

Two-Speed Property Market Emerges as Hot States Power Ahead Through Winter

The onset of winter has done little to cool property markets across Australia, with an unusual surge in home listings for what is traditionally a quieter season. Despite the infux, buyer demand remains strong in certain areas, leading to a twospeed market emerging across the country.

PropTrack economist Anne Flaherty attributes the national increase in property supply to price growth and favourable selling conditions. “Vendors can have confdence that if they list at the moment, they’re likely to see strong buyer demand,” she said. However, persistently high interest rates and the cost of living crisis have also contributed to a rise in distressed sales, increasing the number of homes on the market.

Nationally, property prices continue to rise, especially in capital cities. “In May, we saw prices up 0.4% in capital cities, and compared to 12 months ago, prices are 7.2% higher in capital cities and 5.3% higher in regional areas,”

Ms. Flaherty noted. The combination of high buyer demand and an undersupply of housing is driving these price increases, even with a relatively high number of homes for sale.

Outperforming Cities

Among the capital cities, Perth is leading the charge. Homes are

of Belle Property WA, noted that Perth has defed the usual winter market slowdown. “We launched a property on a Friday, had 126 groups through, received 12 offers, and sold it by Tuesday,” he said. Coleman advised buyers to stay active, as properties are hitting the

Hooker Stafford noted a strong start to the winter property market compared to last year, despite cautious sellers holding off due to low stock. “I think when we hit July, the new fnancial year, there will be more stock on the market, and it will get snapped up quickly with the current

regional Victoria has seen no growth over the past year, with prices down 1%.

In Sydney and Melbourne, an increase in home listings is not translating into rapid price growth.

“Melbourne has been one of the weaker performing capital cities, with prices

selling 25% faster, and prices have increased 21% year-on-year to a median house price of $699,000. Unlike Sydney and Melbourne, where property listings have risen 18% and 25% respectively from a year ago, Perth’s listings in May were 23% lower than the previous year.

Travis Coleman, head

market quickly due to low stock levels.

Adelaide and Brisbane are also experiencing strong market conditions. Adelaide’s home prices have grown 14.5% over the past year, followed by Brisbane at 13.7%, according to the PropTrack Home Price Index. Brisbane agent Adam Stefan of LJ

buyer demand,” he said. Cooling Conditions

While Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane are thriving, other markets are seeing sluggish conditions. Hobart, which experienced strong demand during the pandemic, has seen property prices correct, falling 2% over the past 12 months. Similarly,

Why the Housing Accord Target of 1.2 Million Homes is

By Ian Rogers

The Federal Government’s Housing Accord aims to deliver 1.2 million new, welllocated homes by June 2029. However, industry experts are sceptical about reaching this ambitious target.

To meet this goal, Australia would need to construct 240,000 homes annually, or 657 homes daily. The best year for housing construction since the mid-1980s saw 223,563 homes built in 2017, still short of the required pace. Back then, interest rates were lower at 1.5%, compared to today’s 4.35%.

Major Impediments to Achieving the Target

1. Cost of Construction

Since the pandemic began, construction material costs have surged by 33.4%.

Building houses now costs 40.1% more, and constructing units is 23.2% more expensive. These increased costs are passed on to buyers, making new homes signifcantly pricier than existing properties, thus discouraging new purchases.

2. Interest Rates

The current cash rate of 4.35% reduces borrowing capacity for buyers and increases costs for developers, narrowing proft margins and making fewer projects viable.

3. Competition with Existing Stock New homes are

generally more expensive than existing ones. With a high

4. Planning System Conservative restrictions on density,

up just 0.9% over the past 12 months,” Ms. Flaherty said. Sydney and Melbourne are experiencing a “normal” market, a contrast to recent years of price volatility.

McGrath Croydon principal Paul Fenech suggested that interest rate uncertainty has had a more signifcant impact

Unlikely to be

approved sites, many are not developed due to fnancial unviability.

volume of existing properties available for sale, buyers have more choices and are likely to prefer cheaper, established homes.

delays in development approvals, and excessive charges on new developments hinder new housing supply. While there are

than the winter season itself. “If the price range is right, buyers will buy,” he said. “But some buyers are holding off due to higher interest rates, so deals are not coming together as quickly.”

Sydney agent Ric Serrao from Raine & Horne Double Bay and Bondi Beach acknowledged a slowdown but noted that transactions are still occurring, albeit at a smaller volume.

“There doesn’t seem to be any FOMO in the market right now,” he said. “But come spring, activity usually picks up signifcantly.”

In summary, while some markets like Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane continue to see robust growth and high buyer activity, others like Hobart and regional Victoria are experiencing more subdued conditions.

Sydney and Melbourne are witnessing a return to a more balanced market, with steady, albeit slower, activity expected through the winter months.

Achieved

• Reduce Construction Costs: This includes managing the supply of materials and labour.

• Finance Access: Developers need better access to fnance to proceed with projects.

• Price Differential: Address the cost gap between new and existing homes.

• Planning System: Improve planning constraints and streamline approval processes.

Addressing the Challenges

To achieve the Housing Accord target, the following steps are necessary:

Without addressing these impediments, the Housing Accord’s goal remains unattainable, and the shortage of new housing will persist.

Rental Pain Index Report: July 2024 - Easing Pressures and Persistent Affordability Issues

The latest Rental Pain Index (RPI) for July 2024 presents a multifaceted view of Australia’s rental market, highlighting signifcant state disparities, fuctuating levels of rental distress, and emerging signs of easing pressures. Despite these signs, high rents remain a critical issue for households across the nation.

State-by-State Analysis

New South Wales (NSW):

• Slight decrease in extreme rental pain, with affected suburb areas (SA2s) dropping from 72.54% in June to 71.69% in July.

Queensland (QLD):

• Increase in extreme rental pain, from 80.98% to 81.22%, indicating worsening affordability challenges.

Western Australia (WA):

• Marginal decrease in extreme rental pain, from 83.74% to 82.76%, despite having the

highest rental increase rates.

National Overview

Nationally, the proportion of SA2s experiencing extreme rental pain increased slightly from 72.25% in June to 72.90% in July. Some states, however, showed improvement:

• Victoria (VIC): Reduction from 75.37% to 74.58%.

• Tasmania (TAS): Signifcant improvement, reducing extreme rental pain from 29.87% to 27.27%.

Expert Insights

Kent Lardner remarked, “While we are seeing early signs of easing rental pressures in some areas, the broader picture remains challenging. States like Queensland are facing signifcant

affordability issues, with over 80% of SA2s in extreme rental pain.”

He added, “The slight improvements in states like Tasmania are promising, but we cannot overlook the fact that high rents are still a burden for many households. Stabilising rents is not enough; we need to see rents falling below 30% of household

income to ensure longterm affordability.”

Encouraging Signs

Certain SA3 regions are showing positive indicators:

• Hawkesbury (Greater Sydney)

• Jimboomba (Greater Brisbane)

These areas have seen increasing vacancy rates, suggesting potential easing of

rental pain. However, high rents continue to signifcantly impact household budgets, often consuming over 30% of income.

“The impact of high rents on household budgets is profound,” Lardner noted. “Many families are forced to allocate a substantial portion of their income to housing, leaving little room for other essential expenses. It is crucial for policymakers to focus on reducing rental costs to sustainable levels.”

Conclusion

The Rental Pain Index report underscores the need for targeted policies to address rental affordability, ensuring that rent costs do not continue to overburden Australian households. As the market continues to evolve, ongoing attention and action are required to achieve longterm solutions for rental affordability issues.

A Guide to Your Downsizing Options in Australia

Downsizing your home for the next stage of life involves several key considerations, from choosing the perfect location to selecting the right fnancial model.

To help you navigate this complex decisionmaking process, we’ve broken down the essentials.

Location, Location

One of the frst decisions when downsizing is choosing the right location.

Stephanie Clark, Senior Development Manager at Ingenia, suggests considering whether you want to stay locally or venture further for a sea or tree change. “It can be about moving close to family, which is a common driver,” she says. “Or, you might want to stay in the same area and community that you’ve been part of for

so long.”

Justin Blumfeld, Executive General Manager of Residential Communities at Ingenia Lifestyle, highlights their diverse range of communities, from Northern Queensland to the Sunshine Coast and regional Victoria. “We have sea change locations desirable by the beach and tree change scenarios,” he says. “For example, Nature’s Edge on the Sunshine Coast backs onto a beautiful rainforest setting, while Ingenia Lifestyle Drift at Bargara has direct frontage to Queensland’s Coral Sea.”

These locations offer the chance to enjoy nature or serve as a base for adventurers who might want to explore with a caravan or 4WD.

Styles of Homes

Once you’ve chosen your location, the next step is selecting the type of property that suits your needs. Maria Tsavaris, Head of Design and Innovation at Ingenia Lifestyle, lists several options, including retirement villages, apartments, granny fats, house and land packages, or brand new homes in a land lease community.

Blumfeld notes that with house and land packages, there can be numerous design selections and the hassle of working with builders. A simpler option is a land lease community, where design options are curated by experts. “We stay ahead of the latest trends and styles, and that really resonates with our customers,” he says.

Clark adds that most homes are designed for accessibility and safety, allowing people to age in place without needing to move due to mobility changes.

Local Amenities

When downsizing, having great amenities nearby is crucial.

Blumfeld emphasizes the importance of local nature, shopping, and transport. Ensure your new home is conveniently located near shops, medical centres, and cafes.

At Ingenia land lease communities, residents have access to exclusive facilities such as pools, saunas, bowling greens, and bars. These amenities act as extensions of their homes, enhancing their lifestyle. Clark explains that the

community is designed for easy mobility, with fat footpaths and ramps instead of steps, ensuring equitable access for all. Additionally, Ingenia communities offer a resident community bus service for regular trips into town for shopping or social activities.

Financial Models

A key consideration for downsizers is freeing up equity to enjoy a better lifestyle. Traditional retirement villages and apartments often come with deferred management fees and expensive strata fees. In contrast, land lease communities offer lower fees since you own the house but rent the land.

Blumfeld explains, “The beneft is that you don’t have any stamp duty, you don’t have any entry or exit fees, and

you don’t pay ongoing council rates. Plus, you can also get the support of government rent assistance (if eligible).”

This fnancial model can be more appealing than traditional retirement villages with deferred management fees, as it keeps more money in your pocket.

Finally

Downsizing can be a signifcant decision, but with the right information and considerations, you can fnd a location, home, amenities, and fnancial model that provide the best possible lifestyle. By evaluating your needs and exploring the options available, you can make an informed choice that enhances your quality of life in this new stage.

Australians’ Sleep Crisis: Anxiety, Work Worries, and Social Media

By Ian Rogers

Recent statistics reveal a troubling sleep crisis among Australians, with more than half of the population struggling to sleep due to anxiety and concerns about work and bills. Additionally, three in ten Australians admit that staying up late scrolling through social media prevents them from getting adequate sleep.

In Queensland, the situation is particularly severe, with 12% of residents admitting they feel tired all the time. This has led to “sleep tourism” becoming the biggest travel trend of 2024, as more people seek solutions to their sleep deprivation. Over 50 million TikTok posts highlight this growing movement. To address the crisis, Hobart luxury hotel MACq 01 conducted research to uncover the root causes and offer potential solutions.

Key Findings from MACq 01’s Research:

• Medication Use: Four in ten Australians have used prescription or natural medications to aid sleep.

• Late-Night Activities: Over a third

of respondents say binge-watching TV or reading keeps them from getting a restful night’s sleep.

• Pets and Partners: One in ten people are kept awake by their pets in bed, and another one in ten are disturbed by their snoring or wriggling partners.

• Counting Sheep: Two in ten Australians have resorted to counting sheep to fall asleep.

• Dangerous Drowsiness: Alarmingly, one in ten people have fallen asleep while driving.

• Workplace Naps:

A quarter of Australians have fallen asleep at their desks, with Victoria having the highest percentage.

• Unusual Places: 8% have fallen asleep on the toilet, 7% in a nightclub or pub, 5% during sex, and 4% on a stranger’s shoulder. Insights from Sleep Expert Shea Morrison:

1. Australia’s Lack of Intimacy: Morrison discusses how sleep issues contribute to the country’s declining birth rate, as sleep deprivation negatively impacts intimacy.

2. Winter Sleep

Needs: She explains why we need more sleep in winter and describes the optimal environment for sleep, including ideal temperatures and locations.

3. Sleep Debt: Morrison addresses the concept of sleep debt and whether it’s possible to “catch up” on lost sleep.

4. Sleep Tourism: She delves into sleep travel, explaining why it has become the number one tourism trend of 2024.

To help alleviate sleep deprivation, Shea Morrison curated the MACq 01 Pay By Sleep

Slumber Suite, where guests can lower their hotel bills by sleeping more, potentially earning a free night’s stay based on their sleep performance. State specifc stats:

Vic:

• 12% feel tired all the time

• More Victorians are kept awake by their partner snoring or wriggling than a any other state, with 15% admitting it keeps them up (all other states 13% or less)

• 29% have fallen asleep at their desks

WA:

• WA had the highest number of people staying up to have sex (one in ten, more than double most of the other states), and also had the largest percentage of people saying they always get a restful sleep.

SA:

• One in ten have fallen asleep on the toilet

• 11% have nodded off in a pub or club

QLD:

• 12% of Queenslanders feel tired all the time

4 in 5 Australians Want Their Super Fund to Work Hard Against Scams and Fraud

By Ian Rogers

Super

Consumers

Australia welcomes the Financial Services Council’s new Scam

Mitigation Standard but urges further action from the Federal Government to combat scams in superannuation.

A recent survey by

Super Consumers

Australia found that 81% of Australians believe their super fund should actively protect them from scams and fraud.

Despite this, only 17 trustees have committed to meeting these community expectations.

The Financial Services Council (FSC) recently published its Scam Mitigation Standard, requiring its super fund members to implement clear policies and procedures for dealing with scams and fraud, including multi-factor authentication for highrisk transactions.

“Only the funds

which are members of the Financial Services Council must comply with the new Standard.

This means only roughly a quarter of people with super will beneft from the improved measures,” says Policy Manager Rebekah Sarkoezy.

“We’re calling on the whole industry to adopt the practices set out in the standard, as a minimum. Until it does, members’ retirement savings are at an elevated risk of being stolen by scammers.”

While the Standard won’t be mandatory until 2026 and only addresses a few aspects of scam

and fraud prevention, it represents a crucial frst step in enhancing account security and scam prevention in superannuation.

“Self-regulation will never be the solution to an operational risk as severe as scams and fraud. The super system is only as strong as its weakest link.

We’re calling on the government to fast track a super anti-scams code to protect people from organised criminals out to steal their super,” Sarkoezy added.

“Multi-factor authentication is just one piece of the puzzle.

Other protections, such as better scrutiny on identifcation documents and robust informationsharing requirements, must be features of a mandatory super antiscam code.”

Earlier this year, Super Consumers found that as many as 178,000 super fund members were at an increased risk of being targeted by scammers due to super fund data breaches.

For more information on how to protect your super from scams and fraud, visit Super Consumers Australia. https://www. superconsumers.com.au

Cut Pensioner Poverty with Targeted Concessions

There is a better way to provide cost-of-living support to seniors. Here’s how.

While some seniors are fnancially secure, many are not. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) estimates that 20% of Australians aged 65 and older live in poverty.

The Grattan Institute, however, argues that this fgure drops to 10%

when housing wealth is considered.

A recent survey by National Seniors Australia found that almost 40% of older renters and more than 30% of low-income older households experience severe cost-of-living pressures, much higher than other groups. This raises the question: why don’t governments target additional concessions to those most in need?

Types of Concessions

Commonwealth Concession Cards, such as the Pensioners Concession Card (PCC), provide access to subsidised services and cost-of-living concessions. All pensioners are eligible for these concessions, regardless of their wealth and income. For instance, a homeowning couple with up to $1,003,000 in

assets receives the same concessions as a couple with no assets and no home.

Current System Limitations

Under the current system, there is no way to give additional concessions to those most in need without extending support to all pensioners, which is prohibitively expensive. This approach prevents the government from

taking targeted actions to help the most vulnerable seniors.

Proposed Solution: Pensioner Concession Card+ (PCC+)

National Seniors Australia proposes the creation of a Pensioner Concession Card+ (PCC+), allowing governments to target additional concessions and supports to eligible pensioners. This policy initiative is included in NSA’s 2024-25 Budget submission.

The PCC+ would enable governments to provide higher concession rates, dental subsidies, cheaper medicines, or healthcare rebates to those in need.

The Commonwealth could use existing customer data to determine eligibility based on income and assets, similar to how Age Pension eligibility is currently assessed.

Budget Costs

The cost of implementing a targeted PCC+ would involve administrative expenses for setting up the new card and updating communications. However, targeting concessions would

Breast Cancer Screening in Australia May Change: Here’s

Brooke Nickel and Katy Bell, University of Sydney

The approach to breast cancer screening in Australia may soon undergo signifcant changes. There’s ongoing international debate about the age women should start screening, but a more substantial shift could involve screening women based on their individual risk levels. This “risk-based” approach is still under consideration, and its implementation in Australia remains uncertain.

Why Breast Cancer Screening May Need to Change

Mass screening for breast cancer was introduced in Australia in the 1980s and 90s, based on robust research showing early detection

and treatment could save lives. Currently, women aged 40-74 can receive free mammograms every two years, with the BreastScreen program specifcally inviting those aged 50-74. However, evidence suggests that mammography screening may inadvertently cause harm for some women. False alarms from screenings can lead to anxiety and unnecessary tests and procedures. Overdiagnosis is another concern, where nongrowing or slow-growing lesions that wouldn’t cause harm are treated unnecessarily. This can result in surgeries, radiotherapy, and hormone therapy that offer no beneft and may cause harm.

Although screening reduces the risk of dying

from breast cancer, it’s unclear how much this improves overall survival rates.

Better Targeting Women: The RiskBased Approach

One proposal is to tailor screening to women based on their personal risk of breast cancer. Factors such as age, breast density, family history, body-mass index, genetics, and reproductive history could be used to determine individual risk.

Under a risk-based approach:

• High-risk women would start screening at a younger age, screen more frequently, or use more sensitive imaging tests.

• Low-risk women would start later and screen less often.

This approach aims to direct resources toward women most likely to beneft from early cancer detection, while reducing the risk of false positives and overdiagnosis for those less likely to beneft.

Uncertainties and Challenges

While promising, the risk-based approach presents uncertainties:

• Predicting the risk of potentially lethal cancers is challenging, as current methods might also detect non-harmful cancers.

• It’s unclear how many low-risk women would follow recommendations for less frequent screening.

International randomised controlled trials are underway to evaluate the effectiveness of risk-based screening.

signifcantly reduce overall costs while maximizing impact.

For example:

• Seniors Dental Benefts Scheme: If 500,000 pensioners received $500 per year for dental care, it would cost $250 million annually. Providing this beneft to all pensioners would cost $1.25 billion.

• Energy Bill Relief: Offering an additional $250 rebate to 500,000 PCC+ holders would cost $125 million, compared to $625 million for all pensioners.

The PCC+ would provide crucial support to pensioners with limited means and offer additional help as they spend down their savings later in life.

Conclusion

Targeting concessions through a PCC+ would be a cost-effective way to support the most vulnerable pensioners, addressing the severe cost-of-living pressures they face. This approach ensures that limited government resources are used effciently to provide the greatest beneft to those in need.

What We Know So Far

It may be wise to wait for these results before changing policy or practice in Australia.

Implementation and Considerations

Before implementing a risk-based approach, several issues need addressing:

• Adequate staffng to run the program and discuss calculated risks with women.

• Ensuring robust evidence supports the benefts outweighing the harms.

The Role of Breast Density

Women with dense breasts are at higher risk of breast cancer.

Some Australian states and the United States have started notifying women about their breast density to help them make informed screening decisions. However,

this factor alone doesn’t account for all the variables determining breast cancer risk. An ongoing Australian trial is investigating the effects of breast density notifcation.

What’s Next?

Robust evidence and careful planning are crucial before making any changes to Australia’s breast cancer screening program. Any implemented changes should be evaluated early for both benefts and harms, with regular, independent re-evaluations in the long term.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here https:// theconversation.com/au

2024 Toyota Prado Gets Tough Modellista Makeover

By Jeff Gibbs

Is the Prado’s styling a little too plain for you?

Modellista’s range of personalisation parts could be just the remedy.

The 2024 Toyota LandCruiser Prado has been given a tougher look, thanks to the release of new add-on parts from Modellista, the Japanese tuning arm of Toyota. Known for its aggressive styling options, Modellista has introduced a comprehensive catalogue for the new Prado 250 Series, allowing owners to make their four-wheeldrive stand out.

Modellista

Customisation Options

Available in Japan, the customisation parts can be purchased as a package or individually. The range includes:

• Exterior Enhancements:

o Front bumper guard

o Aluminium skid plate

o Rear bumper garnish

o Fog light surrounds

o Wheel arch fares

o Quarter-panel garnish

o Door skirts

o Rear bumper step guard

o Rear spoiler

o LED fog-light globe

o Tailgate garnish

• Wheel Upgrade:

o 20-inch Wing

Dancer alloy wheels in black and anthracite

o Toyo Open Country all-terrain tyres

• Interior Styling:

o Illumination kit

o LED footlights

o Window tint

o Sunshade

o Seat cushion

Additionally, Toyota Japan offers an upgrade

to round headlights, with the rectangular headlights being standard on all Prado models sold in Australia.

Modellista’s Legacy Founded in 1997, Modellista was established by Toyota to provide factorybacked body kits and accessories, catering to Japan’s car customisation

culture. With a long history of offering more aggressive styling options, Modellista continues to enhance the aesthetic appeal of Toyota vehicles.

Availability

While Toyota Australia does not offer Modellista parts locally, interested owners can purchase these items through

third-party Japanese parts importers such as Rupewrecht. With the 2024 Toyota LandCruiser Prado set to launch in Australia before the end of the year, the new Modellista parts provide an exciting option for those looking to add a personal touch to their vehicle.

Mazda Sales Drop to Lowest in a Decade After Betting on More Expensive Cars

By Jeff Gibbs

Mazda’s gamble on a range of luxury-priced large SUVs is beginning to show cracks in its sales performance, which have dropped by 4 per cent this year in a market that has grown by 9 per cent. This marks

Mazda’s lowest yearto-date ranking on the Australian new-car sales charts in a decade.

For nine of the past ten years, Mazda has held the number two position on the sales scoreboard, trailing only behind Toyota. However, this year, Mazda has slipped

to third place for the frst time since 2014, overtaken by Ford. The brand now holds its smallest share of the new-car market since 2007.

Several factors contribute to Mazda’s declining sales, including increased competition from growing Chinese brands and other Japanese manufacturers.

However, Mazda’s strategic shift towards luxury-priced SUVs has also played a signifcant role.

Mazda has discontinued the CX-8 and CX-9 seven-seaters, which were priced from about $50,000 drive-away, and introduced the more expensive CX-90. The CX-90 starts at approximately $80,000

on the road, with top models exceeding $100,000. Additionally, the slightly smaller seven-seat CX-80 is set to join the lineup before the year’s end, with its cheapest version expected to be close to $70,000 drive-away. These new, more expensive SUVs are intended to generate higher profts per

vehicle, potentially offsetting the drop in sales volume. However, stock of the CX-9 is depleting, and the CX90, in full production and on sale since mid-last year, has only slightly outsold the CX-9, with 460 deliveries compared to 374 since January 1.

By Jeff Gibbs

Accelerating from 0-100 km/h is impressive, with the current production car record standing at around 1.74 seconds, held by the fully electric 1900hp (1454kW) Rimac Nevera hypercar. However, accelerating from 0-400-0 km/h (and back to zero) is an entirely different challenge, demanding monumental power, exceptional braking, aerodynamic fnesse, and a driver with nerves of steel.

Swedish automotive engineering specialist Koenigsegg has just broken the 0-400-0 km/h record with its Jesko Absolut model, achieving the feat in 27.83 seconds at an airfeld in Örebro, Sweden. This surpasses the previous 2023 record set by the Koenigsegg Regera at 28.81 seconds. The Jesko Absolut: A Marvel of Engineering Driven by Koenigsegg test driver Markus Lundh, the Jesko Absolut is designed specifcally for straight-line speed. It boasts a smaller frontal area, targeted venting to release high-pressure air, and no active aero, all intended to minimize drag. With a drag coeffcient (Cd) of just

V8-Powered Koenigsegg Absolut Coupe Smashes 0-400-0 km/h Record in Sweden

0.278, it is one of the most aerodynamically effcient hypercars. Record-Breaking Performance

The Jesko Absolut’s 5.0-litre twinturbocharged V8 engine, burning E85 fuel, generates 1195kW and 1500Nm of torque. This power is delivered to the rear wheels through a nine-speed dual-clutch transmission. The car features a carbon fbre monocoque chassis with aluminium honeycomb

and integrated fuel tanks, ensuring both lightweight and safety. During the record attempt, the Jesko Absolut accelerated from 0-400 km/h in 18.82 seconds, and back to 0 km/h in a combined time of 27.83 seconds. Preliminary runs on June 26 were conducted under less-than-ideal conditions, but the offcial record runs were verifed using industry-standard timing equipment from

Racelogic. Standard Yet Extraordinary

The record-setting car was in its standard, as-delivered condition, running on E85 pump fuel and standard Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 R tyres. The only modifcations were a roll cage for driver safety and a single race seat, as per the driver’s preference. Christian von Koenigsegg expressed confdence in the car’s performance: “This

record run validated the accuracy of the simulated and calculated performance of the Jesko Absolut, which gives us great confdence in its ability to outright be the fastest, fully homologated production car in the world.”

Future Prospects Von Koenigsegg hinted at future attempts to further push the boundaries: “Now it is all down to tyre testing, development, and approval, before we

can fnally attempt that record. In parallel, we plan to see what kind of records the Jesko Attack can achieve given its astonishing track performance.”

The Jesko Absolut’s achievements underscore Koenigsegg’s dedication to innovation and performance, setting new benchmarks in the hypercar world.

Luxury Cars Fuel Still-Growing EV Sales

By Jeff Gibbs

Electric vehicle (EV) sales in Australia continue to grow, with luxury brands driving the market. According to VFACTS sales fgures released this week, almost half of all prestige and luxury car sales are now fully electric.

In the frst half of 2024, 50,905 EVs were sold in Australia, with nearly two-thirds bearing a luxury or prestige brand badge. This record result comes amid booming hybrid vehicle sales at the lower end of the market and a slowdown in overall EV sales growth as market competition intensifes. Despite a 4.2 per cent

dip in new vehicle sales in June compared to last year, EV sales rose by 18.1 per cent in the frst six months.

Dominant Players and Market Trends Tesla remains the leading EV brand in Australia, accounting for almost one-third of the 23,116 luxury and prestige EVs sold in the frst six months. However, Tesla’s sales dipped by 33 per cent in June and 9.6 per cent for the frst half of the year. Luxury brands are signifcantly contributing to EV growth. Over half of Volvo’s sales were EVs in the second quarter of 2024, with the brand achieving a 42.7 per cent EV share for the

frst half. BMW also saw strong EV performance, with 27.4 per cent of its sales being fully electric, thanks to positioning six of its EV models below the luxury car tax threshold, offering buyers fringe benefts tax exemptions.

High-end brands

are also embracing electrifcation:

• Rolls-Royce sold 26 cars in the frst half, with 42 per cent being the all-electric Spectre.

• Ferrari’s hybrid models accounted for 45 per cent of its 113 sales.

• McLaren saw 44 per cent of its 41 sales as

hybrids. While Lexus lags in the EV market with only 2.5 per cent of its sales being electric, hybrids dominate its portfolio, representing 72 per cent of its sales.

Market Dynamics and Future Outlook

In the frst half of

2024, there were 31,927 luxury and prestige EVs sold, compared to just 6,313 hybrids. For every hybrid luxury car sold, fve EVs were sold. The total EV market share stands at 8.0 per cent, including an estimated 686 sales from Polestar, which stopped reporting fgures from March. Despite challenges, the popularity of premium-priced EVs signifes a shift towards electrifcation in the luxury car market, with brands like Volvo and BMW leading the charge. The continued growth in EV sales, driven by luxury brands, refects a broader trend towards sustainability and innovation in the automotive industry

Rolls-Royce Spectre

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Stick in the muds fashionable at last.

Before fats and mags, there were foxtails hanging from aerials and horns that played La Marseillaise, unaware it was French or a national anthem.

Not sure why foxtails, but the horns certainly let people know who was coming, even if they were actually saying, “here comes that knob with the stupid horn”.

Chances are those same people had a stupid knob too : an 8-ball, skull, or a

Tapanappa Piccadilly Valley Tiers Vineyard (Alt. 450m) Chardonnay 2023, $110. About as much going on as a chardonnay can provide and all of it good. Somewhat lighter than exxy chardonnays are renowned, and better for it. Alas, few will discover what chardonnay can be, and true, it is merely

redback in resin.

Fats enabled faster cornering, essential for a hotted-up Morris Minor with a top speed of 80kmh, and mags were actually stronger, allegedly.

GT stripes made cars go faster and spoilers made them hug the road better at 250 kph, which was a moot point for cars that could barely do 160. Okay, if your car was red, or better yet, orange, your chances improved.

But things have changed

different in the end and depends what you prefer, but it’s hard to go back. 9.7/10.

Tapanappa Whalebone Vineyard (Wrattonbully)

Merlot Cabernet Franc, 2019, $90 . This is about as fashionable as merlot gets, however, just because you have money, doesn’t mean you have taste, in which case buy this to

and frankly our ubiquitous SUVs or 4WDs look ridiculous with GT stripes and spoilers, so these ‘accoutrements du jour’ have been replaced with a whole new set of look-atme paraphernalia.

First, the bull-bar, the size of which is the important bit, so as much scope as possible is provided for fog-lights, driving-lights, rally-lights and even night lights, not to mention aerials, again the size and number of which is

cover it up. Scrumptious red wine for the rich and fashionable. 9.5/10.

T apanappa Adelaide Hills B&V Vineyard Syrah 2021, $60. Confusingly, this new, limited-edition model from the Croser stable is from Mount Barker SA, not the more common Mt Barker WA. Regardless it’s amazingly fragrant and

uncannily disproportionate to the number of brains cells of the owner dedicated to higher thought processes.

However a new motoring fashion statement has subtly emerged, causing car-crazy kids and parents alike to ponder, “wtf are they”? Don’t swear kids.

Yes, a couple of (usually) brightly-coloured, plastic ‘boards’ a metre long and the width of a tyre (clue), attached to either the roof or the back door of 4WDs.

All 4WDs have them now,

exceptionally easy to drink despite its nearly 15 per cent. 9.5/10 de Bortoli Sparkling Pinot Noir , NV, $30. Perfectly reasonable and even slightly serious sparkling with which to indulge the twilight or gallery openings but alas is marred by jarring graphics which give the impression of cheap plonk

so must come standard with the planet-killing, landclearing, species-extincting behemoths roaming our highways and byways.

After looking it up on Duck Duck Go, evidently ‘Recovery Boards’ is their offcial name, and without them, you are sadly lacking modern-motoring fashion sense, which is weird because they signify either that you are a hopeless offroad driver and get bogged often, or more commonly, because they’re invariably

suitable only for gallery openings. 9.1/10. de Bortoli Pinot (Victoria) Noir (Light and Chillable) 2023, $20.

I agree with the ‘light’ bit but not so the ‘chillable’. That might wreck it, I reckon. Perfectly delightful lunch-time red at room temperature, indeed quite a different pinot altogether and as

pristine clean, a wanker who wants people to think they are a brave off-road adventurer, or at least a wanker fashion slave who likes bright orange plastic. But there are fads in all walks of life, and peculiarly, they often involve the colour orange. Take wine for example, although mercifully the wave of orange (as opposed to Orange) wines has subsided. If only cars would do the same.

palatable as many. 8.9/10. de Bortoli Heathcote ‘Woodfred’ Tempranillo, 2021, $22. Woodfred has probably had its day, and I never understood the fuss, although a woodfred 4WD sounds tasty. However while this doesn’t taste woodfred, it is clever tempranillo, specially for $22. Might as well have it with pizza. 9.3/10.

Max Crus

BREAKFAST EGG AND HAM MUFFINS

4 servings

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

5 INGREDIENTS

• oil spray

PAD THAI (STIR-FRIED NOODLES)

4 eggs

From simple meals to show-stopping feasts, there’s something for everyone.

• 4 (English) muffns, halved and toasted

• 120g shaved leg ham

3 METHOD STEPS

Step 1

Spray a frying pan with oil. Heat over medium heat. Cook ham, turning, for 2 to 3 minutes or until light golden. Transfer to a plate. Cover to keep warm.

Step 2

Preheat grill on medium. Lightly spray pan with oil. Heat over medium heat. Cook eggs for 4

4 slices tasty cheese

minutes or until cooked to your liking.

Step 3

Place 4 muffn halves on a baking tray lined with foil. Place 1 egg on each muffn. Top each with ham and 1 slice cheese. Grill for 1 minute or until cheese has melted. Top with remaining muffn halves. Serve.

SLOW COOKED TUSCAN BREAD SOUP

4 servings

16

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tsp olive oil

• 1 brown onion, fnely chopped

• 2 carrots, peeled, chopped

• 2 celery sticks, trimmed, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 tsp fennel seeds

• Pinch of dried chilli fakes

• 400g can crushed tomatoes

• 200g cavalo nero (Tuscan cabbage), stem removed, leaves shredded

• 2 thick slices Italian bread (pane di casa), lightly toasted, torn into chunks

• 40g (1/2cup) fnely grated parmesan, (or vegetarian hard cheese) plus extra shaved, to serve

30m prep 10m cook 4 servings

• 400g can Cannellini Beans, drained, rinsed

• 1L (4 cups) Massel vegetable liquid stock

• 1 lemon, juiced, zested

• Finely chopped continental parsley, to serve

• Bouquet garni (4 fresh or dried bay leaves, 4 fresh sprigs thyme, 2 fresh sprigs rosemary)

THAI GREEN CHICKEN CURRY

2 METHOD STEPS

Step 1

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

• 250g packet rice stick noodles

• 2 tbsp lime juice

• 2 tbsp fsh sauce

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 2 tbsp peanut oil

• 2 chicken breast fllets, thinly sliced

• 500g green prawns, peeled, deveined

• 3 green onions, thinly sliced diagonally

• 2 small red chillies, deseeded, fnely chopped

• 2 Australian Free Range Eggs, lightly beaten

• 1 cup bean sprouts, tails removed

• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, fnely chopped, optional

• 1/2 cup coriander leaves

almost tender.

20m prep 15 cook 4 servings

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

Step 2

• 1 1/2 cups (300g) SunRice Long Grain Jasmine Rice

• 2 tbsp Alfa One Rice Bran Oil

• 1 brown onion, cut into thin wedges

• 1/2 x 210g jar Valcom Authentic Thai Green Curry Paste

• 400ml coconut milk

• 300ml chicken stock

METHOD

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.

1. Cook the rice following the packet directions. 2. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring, for 2 mins or until onion softens. Add the curry paste. Cook, stirring, for 2 mins or until fragrant.

• 450g RSPCA Approved Chicken Breast Fillets, cut into 1cm-thick strips

• 1 green capsicum, seeded, thinly sliced

• 100g snow peas, trimmed (optional)

• lime wedges, to serve

METHOD

1. Place noodles into a heat-proof bowl. Cover with hot water. Stand until tender. Drain. Rinse under cold water.

2. Combine lime juice, fsh sauce and sugar in a jug. Whisk with a fork to combine.

“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.”

• 1/2 bunch coriander, leaves picked

• 1 tbsp fsh sauce

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 cup (65g) bean sprouts (optional)

• 2 limes, cut into wedges

3. Add the coconut milk and stock. Bring to a simmer. Add the chicken, capsicum and snow peas, if desired, and cook for 2-3 mins or until chicken is cooked through. Chop half the coriander leaves and add to the curry. Stir in the fsh sauce, sugar and half the bean sprouts, if desired. Squeeze over half the lime wedges. Taste and add more fsh sauce, sugar and lime juice, if desired.

4. Top the curry with remaining bean sprouts, and coriander leaves. Serve with the rice and lime wedges.

3. Heat a wok over high heat. Add oil. Swirl to coat. Add chicken. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until golden. Add prawns, onions and chillies. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes or until prawns turn pink. Add noodles. Stir-fry for 2 minutes.

4. Add lime juice mixture to wok. Toss to combine. Slowly pour eggs over noodles. Stir-fry for 1 minute. Add sprouts. Toss well.

- Auguste Escoffer

5. Spoon pad Thai onto plates. Sprinkle with peanuts and coriander leaves. Serve with lime wedges.

A Guide to Growing Strawberries in Australia

There’s a lot to consider when growing strawberries (Fragaria sp.), from choosing the right location to ensuring optimal soil conditions.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you grow delicious, homegrown strawberries that rival anything you can buy in stores.

Planting Schedule

• Warm Areas: All Year

• Temperate Areas:

All Year

• Cool to Cold Areas: All Year

Location, Location, Location!

Choosing the right location is crucial.

Strawberries thrive in European cool climates, so in Australia, they need a bit of extra care:

• Warm Areas: Use shade cloth to protect plants from harsh sun.

• Cool to Cold Areas:

A spot with morning sun and protection from the afternoon sun is ideal.

• Ensure good air circulation but avoid windy spots that can dry out the shallow-rooted plants.

Soil Preparation

Strawberries need rich,

Pesticide use is a signifcant factor affecting bee populations worldwide. Since much of our food production depends on pollination by bees, the concern over global bee population declines is understandable. While reports of declining bee numbers are often cited, these are generally the result of local population changes and declining species richness of

slightly acidic soil (pH 6-6.5). Prepare the soil with:

• Plenty of compost and well-rotted manure

or two in advance for best results. Two weeks before planting, water the soil with seaweed tea.

mound.

• Keep the crown at ground level and water well.

• Mulch with straw or

(worm or cow).

• Avoid mushroom compost and chicken manure as they can be too alkaline.

• Raised beds (15-20 cm high) or pots are ideal, with 20-30 cm spacing between plants.

• Mulch well with straw to prevent fungal diseases and weed invasion. Prepare the beds a month

Planting Runners

Runners are the best way to start your strawberry patch:

• Choose runners with healthy white roots.

• Remove any old roots and leaves from the crown.

• Plant in a wide hole with a mound of soil in the centre, placing the crown on top and spreading roots over the

pine needles to protect sensitive stems. If this process seems too complex, seedlings can also be planted directly.

Feeding

Even in rich soil, strawberries need additional feeding:

• Apply a weak manure tea at week three.

• Use full-strength seaweed tea when plants

start fowering to prevent fungal infections.

• Ever-bearing varieties need more nitrogen, so occasional blood and bone fertilizer is benefcial.

• For potted strawberries, use halfstrength fertilizer but increase the frequency.

Watering

Strawberries prefer consistent moisture but dislike water on their foliage:

• Sub-surface drip irrigation is ideal.

• Keep the soil moist but not soaking.

• Reduce watering slightly when fruits begin to appear to enhance their favour.

Harvesting

Harvesting time varies greatly depending on variety, soil, location, temperature, and pest issues. Generally, strawberries are perennials and can be productive for several years if properly maintained and renovated between seasons.

Pest and Disease

Management

Strawberries can be susceptible to viruses,

Pesticides Most Harmful to Bees

particular bee species. Besides pesticide use, factors such as the virus carried by the Varroa mite, climate change, and habitat loss also contribute to these declines. In Australia, the detection of the Varroa mite in Victoria in 2018 has heightened the threat to honeybee populations, emphasizing the need to address pesticide risks. Here, we examine the pesticides most

harmful to bees. While neonicotinoids (neonics) are commonly associated with bee toxicity, many other chemicals also pose signifcant threats to both honeybees and native Australian bees. Neonicotinoids (Neonics)

Neonicotinoids are a class of insecticides that affect the central nervous system of insects, causing paralysis and death. They are more toxic to insects than to mammals and birds. Neonicotinoids include:

• Acetamiprid

• Clothianidin

• Dinotefuran

• Imidacloprid

• Nitenpyram

• Thiocloprid

• Thiamethoxam

These chemicals are water-soluble, allowing plants to absorb them easily when applied to the soil. While this reduces the risk of spray drift affecting non-target insects, it also means that neonicotinoids can be stored in pollen and nectar, placing pollinators like bees at risk. They

are also highly toxic to aquatic organisms.

The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) regulates pesticide standards and states that all neonicotinoids registered for use in Australia have undergone a chemical risk assessment. However, some neonicotinoids are banned overseas but still permitted in Australia. Organophosphates Organophosphates are neurotoxins with high persistence in the environment. Due to their toxicity, many are now banned. Some still available in Australia include malathion, chlorpyrifos, dichlorvos, and diazinon. These are mainly used in dusts and powders for controlling lawn beetles, grubs, slaters, termites, and ants. Their residues can be picked up by bees, posing signifcant risks.

Pyrethrins and Pyrethroids

Pyrethrins are naturally derived insecticides, while pyrethroids

moulds, and fungi:

• Look out for yellow stripes on leaves as a sign of viruses. Remove and destroy affected plants.

• Rotate crops every three years to avoid soil-borne diseases.

• Avoid planting strawberries where tomatoes, eggplants, capsicums, or chillis have grown in the past three years.

• Use straw mulch to prevent mould and fungal infections.

• Monitor for slugs and snails and manage them promptly.

Hot Tips

Experiment with different strawberry varieties to fnd the ones that best suit your garden and taste preferences. From tiny Alpine strawberries to large, juicy varieties, there’s a strawberry for every garden.

With the right care and conditions, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious homegrown strawberries, making all the effort worthwhile. Happy gardening!

are their synthetic counterparts. Both affect the nervous system by altering the activity of nerve sodium channels. Pyrethroids are particularly toxic to bees and more effective on insects due to their affnity for insect nerves.

Many products containing pyrethrins are available commercially and pose high risks to bees. It’s best to avoid spraying these products during the day when bees are active.

Fipronil

Fipronil affects the nervous system by altering chloride channel activity. It is used to control indoor insects, spiders, and rodents. Sixteen commercially available products containing fpronil pose high risks to bees, birds, and mammals.

Sulfoxafor

Sulfoxafor is a newer pesticide released in the USA in 2013 and subsequently in Australia. It is banned in the UK and EU but available for agricultural and horticultural use

in Australia. It is not commonly used in gardens but poses risks to bees.

Other Harmful Pesticides

Many other pesticides used in horticultural and agricultural industries contain ingredients toxic to bees. It’s essential to be aware of these chemicals and their risks.

What You Should Do While avoiding chemical pesticides altogether is ideal, it is not always practical when crops are under threat. Consult the SGA’s WiseGardening app for guidance on pesticide use and always read product labels for usage guidelines. However, labels may not provide comprehensive information on toxicity to all organisms, so additional research and caution are necessary. By being informed and cautious with pesticide use, we can help protect bee populations and ensure the sustainability of our food production systems.

Death Notice

MORGAN, JOHN HOWARD

15. 12. 1932 ~ 21. 06. 2024

Late of Ballina.

Passed away peacefully in Ballina on Friday 21st June 2024, aged 91.

Much loved father of Anita, Cathy, Martin and Brett. Cherished Grandfather and Great grandfather of Michaela, Mitchell, Ashley, Madeleine, Tristan, Clancy and Billy. Beloved son of Jack and Gladys (dec.) brother of Lorrie, Joanne, Suzie and Caroline (all dec.).

Loved and sadly missed by his extended family and friends. A private cremation will be held.

Ballina 02 6686 7036

page is dedicated to all those that have passed

Funeral Notice

In loving memory Margaret Anne Cottee

Passed away peacefully on the 5th July 2024 Surrounded by her family.

Loved Sister and Sister in law to Dianne & John. Much loved Aunt to Renee and Natalie and their families. Loving pet mum to Harry & Daisy.

Aged 73 years

Loved greatly and will be missed deeply.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Requiem Mass to celebrate the life of Margaret, to be held at St Carthage’s Cathedral, Leycester Street Lismore on Wednesday, 17th July, 2024 commencing at 11.30am.

Live streaming services will be provided on the day. Link to come.

Margaret loved bright colours, if you have a colourful item of clothing to wear please feel free to. In lieu of owers the family have asked that donations be made to mndaustralia.org.au. A donation box will be provided on the day

FORECAST

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. The chance of morning fog in the south. Light winds.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog inland. Slight chance of a shower. Light winds.

Northern Tablelands District:

Slight chance of a shower, most likely in the morning. Mostly sunny afternoon. Light winds becoming westerly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the afternoon. Thursday. Partly cloudy. Patches of morning frost in the south. The chance of morning fog. Light winds.

New South Wales:

Scattered showers along the southern half of the ranges and western slopes, falling as snow on the Alpine peaks above 1500 metres. Isolated showers elsewhere across the east. The chance of showers developing in the far southwest in the evening. Areas of morning fog and low cloud across the ranges and inland. Daytime temperatures a little above average along the ranges and near or slightly below average in the northwest. Northwest to southwesterly winds, turning northerly in the far west later.

Thursday. Scattered showers across the far southwest spreading across the southern inland during the day, possibly reaching the northern inland later. Snow falling on the Alpine peaks above 1600 metres. Isolated showers possible in the far northeast and along the south coast. Dry and partly cloudy elsewhere. Morning frost and fog patches about the ranges and western slopes and plains. Daytime temperatures slightly above

average in the east and near or below average int he far west. North to northwesterly winds, freshening across the south during the day. A west to southwesterly change entering the far west later.

Byron Coast: Winds: Variable about 10 knots. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Easterly 1.5 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers. The chance of a storm.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: Northwesterly 10 to 15 knots becoming variable about 10 knots during the morning. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: East to northeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 60% chance of showers. The chance of a storm.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Variable below 10 knots. Seas: Below 0.5 metres. Swell: Easterly 1.5 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers. The chance of a storm.

By Robert Heyward

Eight years after facing potential shutdown, the NSW greyhound racing industry is now celebrating unprecedented achievements in animal welfare and industry sustainability, as reported by the independent body overseeing the sport in NSW.

Rob Macaulay, CEO of Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW), extended his gratitude and congratulations to the 12,335 participants, partners, and dedicated supporters of the industry. This

fgure encompasses participants, volunteers, and employees (both full-time and part-time), with 93.6% of these roles located outside the Sydney Metro area. The greyhound racing industry in NSW is beloved by thousands and contributes over $655 million to the state’s economy, supporting 4,343 jobs, particularly in regional communities.

Since the former NSW Government’s announcement to shut down the industry eight years ago, participants in NSW have much to be proud of, including

several signifcant achievements in the 2023-24 fnancial year:

• The frst animal racing jurisdiction globally to genuinely introduce and enforce a Zero Unnecessary Euthanasia policy.

• A record rehoming of 2,806 greyhounds, up from 415 when the industry was nearly shut down. This year also saw the launch of programs to rehome dogs to police offcers affected by PTSD in Australia and the USA.

• Halved breeding numbers from a decade ago.

• Enhanced minimum

track and safety standards, producing some of the safest tracks in Australia.

• The lowest track mortality rate in the sport’s history.

• Record prizemoney of over $55 million per year, up from $26 million when the industry was nearly shut down.

• Accelerated female participation and gender equality, with 55% of total employment at GRNSW now female.

• A zero-tolerance approach to wrongdoers, fully supporting the permanent exclusion of participants proven

to engage in unlawful practices or regulatory breaches.

“We’re immensely proud of how far our sport has come since almost being shut down,” said Mr. Macaulay. “This has only been possible thanks to our participants, partners, and dedicated supporters.”

“Following the McHugh Inquiry and Morris Iemma’s Reform Panel, we have implemented outstanding animal welfare programs, made tough reform decisions, and invested strategically in our assets to ensure they

are safe and worldclass.”

“Our Greyhounds As Pets rehoming programs are recognized as the largest, most successful of their kind worldwide.

GRNSW assisted 2,806 greyhounds transition to pet life in the past fnancial year, up from 415 when we were nearly shut down.”

“There is still a lot more to do, but we are making the diffcult decisions to secure the long-term sustainability of our sport, particularly focusing on the highest standards of animal welfare.”

BALLINA MAHJONG

5TH JULY 2024

Carol Meyer 1, Joy Lowien 2, Barbara Ellan 3, Ronda Taylor 4, Shirley Atkinson 5, Cindy Smith 6, Susan Allan 7, Sally Lowry 8, Wendy Thornton 9, Jan Henley, Leslie Richie 10, Lynda Lovett 12, Ann Hewitt 13, Val Heinritz 14, Kath Hubbard 15, Jan Boardman 16, Jane Fenech 17, Gail McDonagh, Pauline Bolte 18, Val McLerie 20, Diana Auret 21, Linda Lloyd 22, Lisa Wong 23, Lorna

Simpson 24, Jan Small 25, Shirley Coleman 26, Vanessa Reynolds 27, Pam Farrell 28, Coral Lavelle 29, Ramsay Roper 30. Friday at 12:30pm at the Ballina Bridge Club North Creek Road. Enquiries for new players phone Shirley on 0423 384 647.

Casino Social Golf

Results 07-07-2024

The Monthly medal played last Sunday was won by Ray Ruttley with a net score of 22 from Bruce Yates with 29. The putting trophy

went to W. Jackson with 13 putts and J. Rankin won the players draw. Nearest to pins: 8th & 9th, W. Jacklson. 10th, 13th & 14th, D. Hampson. 11th, G. Randall. 12th & 18th. M. Gooding. 15th, B. Yates. 16th, T. Jenkins. 17th, R. Ruttley. Next Sunday’s event sponsored by The Barn Clydesdale Motel Casino, will be Ï Should have Day on the bottom 10 holes and visitors are welcome to play with hit off from 6-30am till 7-30am.

CHERRY STREET

CROQUET CLUB

SPORTS RESULTS

RICOCHET

CROQUET : R.Poynting R.Chapman 9 d N.Poynting D.Scott 7

A.Mangan 12 d P.Scott B.Bill 11

J.Bate B.Wellings 12 d P.Bolte M.Russell 11

D.Jones J.Hannigan 16 d H.Young M.Field 16

TOURNAMENTS : Gold Coast Tweed Association Tournament Ladies Open Singles : Y Rowell Coolangatta 1st , H.Knight Stephens

2nd, K.Grant Southport 3rd. Men’s Open Singles : G.Bury Windsor 1st, G.Fisher Wellington 2nd, D.Luxmore Burleigh Heads 3rd. Over 70s Singles : G.Porter Cherry Street 1st, P.Deeth Coutts Crossing 2nd, P.Bateman Norwood 3rd

CORAKI

VETERANS GOLF RESULTS

THURSDAY 4/7/24

Well a very small feld contested the monthly medal for July medal winner T Woods, vets

winner T Patch Free game S McDonough chicken/ball winners D Bullock ,J Voght, J Nilsson. Nearest pins 3rd/12th G Tait, 6th/15th S Smith putting comp T Patch, S Toms, D Bullock. This Thursday will be the Jim Ormond memorial day played as an 18 hole single stableford event commencing with a shot gun start at 8.30am. AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING Max

LENNOX HEAD, NSW (Friday, 4 July 2024): Day two of the Skullcandy Oz Grom Open, presented by O’Neill, featured the frst rounds of the World Surf League (WSL) Pro Junior division in

Lennox Head. Recent ISA World Junior Champion and 2023 Under-18 Boys

Skullcandy Oz Grom winner Dane Henry (Fingal Head, NSW) demonstrated why he holds a world title,

challenging conditions at

through the opening round. Henry navigated the diffcult surf with ease, securing his place in the second round and reaffrming his aim for another title.

Continuing his impressive performance

snaps and carves to secure a spot in the second round. Other standouts from round one included Fletcher Kelleher (Manly, NSW), Ty Richardson (Palm Beach, QLD), Ben Zanatta Creagh (Dee

heat with an 11.76 twowave total. She will face fellow event standouts Ruby Berry (WA), Olive Hardy (WA), and Milla Brown (Bungan, NSW) in an exciting round two matchup.

Upcoming Competition

expected in 2024, with surfers from Europe, the USA, Hawaii, Indonesia, and Japan. Over 180 surfers will compete across all divisions.

Former competitors of the event include current

Why, NSW), and Luke Brumby (Sunshine Coast, QLD), all of whom posted heat totals exceeding 12.00 points.

from the Under-16 Boys division, Ocean Lancaster (Merewether, NSW) showcased his skills with last-minute heroics to advance in the Pro Junior division. Lancaster needed a strong score in the fnal minutes and delivered with a powerful backhand snap, earning a 6.67 wave score to move into a progressing position.

Lennix Smith (Shellharbour, NSW) displayed his potential as the future of Australian surfng, executing a series of critical

In the women’s division, Tayla Green (NZL) demonstrated that risky surfng is rewarded by the judges. The powerful natural footer executed critical carves in the challenging surf, earning an excellent 8.00 wave score and a 7.50, bringing her two-wave total to 15.50.

Isla Huppatz (Gold Coast, QLD) proved to be a formidable competitor, fnishing her

Day three (Saturday, 6th July) will feature more Pro Junior rounds, followed by the commencement of the Under-18 division. The iconic six-day event runs from 4 July to 9 July 2024, comprising a WSL-sanctioned Pro Junior Qualifying Series (JQS) event and an elite competition for promising grommets in the 14, 16, and 18-year age divisions.

As in previous years, the event has attracted surfers from ten different countries, and a full international feld is

and former World Championship Tour and Challenger Series surfers such as Macy Callaghan, Molly Picklum, Mikey, Owen and Tyler Wright, Jack Robinson, and local surfers Ocea Curtis and Nyxie Ryan. All event divisions will be broadcast live worldwide on skullcandyozgromopen. com.au.

For more information on the event, please contact skullcandy24info@ gmail.com.

Lennix Smith (Shellharbour, NSW) showed why he’s considered the future of Australian surfng, nailing a series of critical snaps and carves to cement a spot into the second round. Image: Ethan Smith

Dane Henry

Zahlia Short

Ziggy Aloha McKenzie

By Tim Howard

After a stunning opening day at the 2024 Grafton July Racing Carnival all eyes have turned to the running of the 2024 South Grafton Cup.

Clarence Valley Jockey Club executive offcer

Michael Beattie said the excitement for this race has taken off in the racing community since it became an entry vehicle for the $3 million Big Dance.

He said on Monday that nominations had not yet closed for the event, but there were already 20 entrants for Sunday’s big race.

Among them is the Murwillumbah trained galloper Cepheus, last year’s winner and runner up in the Big Dance.

“Cepheus is back to defend his title, but I would say the main reason is to have another shot at the Big Dance,”

Beattie said.

Beattie said the sevenyear-old gelding looked to be in even better form than when he qualifed for the race at Grafton and showed enough form to become one of the race favourites.

“I would argue this year he is in even better form than last year,”

Beattie said.

“This time last year, coming into the South Cup, Cepheus had gone around in the Glasshouse, and run second in the Glasshouse, which was a Listed race.

“And he’d run fourth in the Eye Liner, which is

also a Listed race.”

Beattie said Cepheus has not enjoyed the same results as last year, but has been racing in better quality events.

“This year’s he’s racing in two Group Ones, where he’s admittedly fnished down the track, the George Ryder and the Stradbroke, but this time last year he’d only ever had one run at Group One level,” he said.

“There’s no doubt in my mind the horse is going equally well, if not better than last year.”

Beattie said Cepheus was likely to meet a stronger feld in this year’s race, although it was hard to tell until nominations closed.

He said the opening day of racing for the

carnival on Sunday, the Kensei Club Community Race Day, could not have gone better.

“We were absolutely thrilled to have enough entries to run a nine-race program,” he said.

“And we had a crowd comparable to last year’s, which was great to see.”

He said the CRJC had changed the format of the day, making six of the nine races a prelude to races later in the carnival.

“Essentially those horses that were contesting those races were here simply for the reason that they wanted to contest the better races later in the carnival,” Beattie said.

He said the winner of the Grafton Cup prelude,

Full Press, was almost certain to run in the Grafton Cup on July 18.

“He’s a Coffs Harbourtrained horse so I’m certain he’ll take his place in the Cup feld,” he said.

He said the strength of Sunday’s felds was a vindication for the club’s move to include more prelude races in the program.

“It gets trainers to think earlier about coming to Grafton,” he said.

“The best way they can guarantee they get a runner in the Ramornie, or Grafton Cup, is to come and win a prelude race.”

He said it was good for the punters to see these horses earlier in the carnival.

“They get a chance to

see which horses are in form and follow them through the carnival,” he said.

Beattie was also pleased with vibe the carnival generated on its opening day.

“The frst day is family day, there’s free entry and there was a big crowd down at the Westlawn tent enjoying the free entertainment,” he said.

“And the betting ring was, as it always is, very busy which is a great thing to see.

“There was just a really good feel for the day and that bodes really well for the rest of the carnival.”

Cepheus hits the line a neck in front of New Zealand galloper Cotohele to win the 2023 Grafton Toyota South Grafton Cup (1600m). He has nominated for Sunday’s race, which is a qualifying event for the $3 million Big Dance in November.

CHAMP BACK TO DEFEND SOUTH CUP