The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 210

Lismore’s 76% occupancy rate a sign of positive recovery

By Samantha Elley

Lismore’s business districts are slowly gaining momentum as they get on with food recovery.

The latest shop to open, Trident Fish & Grill, in Keen Street was celebrated last week and was symbolic of the city’s recovery and rebirth of the CBD.

“As a council, we are very focused on economic recovery,” said Mayor Steve Krieg.

“It’s not just about the CBD, it’s about the South Lismore industrial estate and North Lismore and all the areas so badly affected.

“But a really optimistic sign is we are back up to 76 per cent occupancy in the CBD across the block.

“That varies from street to street… and that’s a real positive sign in only two and a half years.”

Cr Krieg said it was also a call out to anyone looking to invest in the Lismore CBD.

“Chris and the Trident group started in Ballina,” he said.

“Then up to Alstonville and now they have expanded their network into the Lismore CBD.

“Any other businesses that are looking at

relocating or expanding, Lismore is well and truly open for business.”

The mayor is encouraging any new business to hurry up and set up in Lismore before it’s too late.

“I say to many potential investors, if you don’t have a footprint in Lismore over the next 12-18 months you are going to regret it,” he said.

“Because you won’t get one and the prices are going to skyrocket.

“Talk to Lismore City Council …we are really proactive in everything we are doing to trying

to get people back into the CBD and get our industrial estate up to full occupancy.

“We want you here, we will do everything we can to help you get here.”

An audit held by Lismore City Council in the week of June 17, of shopfront and upstairs premises in the CBD, showed the positive growth of businesses, despite the increased cost of living pressures.

“It was always going to be slow increases once we hit 70 per cent occupancy but to reach an impressive 76.8 per

cent by June 2024 is great news,” said Cr Krieg.

“And with the Worker’s Club soon to reopen, it really is the time to invest in Lismore.”

Recent SpendMapp data has also signalled growth in the number of people visiting the business centres.

Total spend was up 10 per cent in the CBD in May, compared to the same time last year. This included a 20.9 per cent increase in dining and entertainment, a 9.6 per cent jump in professional services, 1.8 per cent increase in general retail

and 2.3 per cent increase in food retail.

Occupancy rates across Lismore CBD

• Keen Street – 82.4 per cent, up from 81.1 per cent

• Magellan Street –81.7 per cent up from 76.3 per cent

• Conway Street –77.3 per cent up from 72.1 per cent

• Carrington Street – 77.3 per cent up from 73.1 per cent

• Molesworth Street – 77 per cent up from 74 per cent

• Woodlark Street – 65 per cent up from 60.7 per cent

The Beauty of the Sugar Industry

A recently completed mural at the entry to the 150-year-old Harwood Sugar Mill is stopping traffc and creating excitement in the little village with the oldest Australian owned sugar mill.

In the lead up to the 150-year celebrations, artist Nitsua, has created an artwork that refects the blending of the cane growing and milling activities in the Northern Rivers, that exists thanks to the all-Australian partnership between the grower-owned NSW Sugar Milling Cooperative and familyowned Manildra Group. The artwork was

commissioned by Sunshine Sugar as part of the preparations to celebrate the signifcant milestone of 150 years continuous

manufacturing operation and Australian ownership – all on the same location on the bank of the mighty Clarence River.

As Sunshine Sugar CEO, Mr Chris Connors commented: “Not too many businesses in Australia can say they have achieved such a

signifcant milestone, which is why we are making the effort to celebrate and promote the resilient industry we have here in NSW.”

Sunshine Sugar and the NSW sugar industry have a line-up of community events and activities happening at Harwood (near Yamba) in August. The celebrations with culminate in a massive outdoor community event to be held at the Harwood Cricket Oval on Sunday 25th August. To fnd out more, visit: https://www. sunshinesugar.com. au/150th-harwood-milllanding-page/

NAIDOC honour for Aunty Lenore

By Tim Howard

One of the Clarence Valley’s best known First Nations leaders has been made an honorary Canon of Christ Church Anglican Cathedral Grafton.

The Reverend Aunty Lenore Parker is a much-loved Elder of the Yaegl people of the Northern Rivers.

She is a lifetime member of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Anglican Council (NATSIAC), and has made a signifcant contribution to the life of the national church.

Her installation was part of a special service in the Cathedral on Sunday July 7 which was a local highlight of NAIDOC Week.

Dr Murray Harvey,

Bishop of Grafton, admitted her as an honorary canon of the cathedral to assist the Dean of the Cathedral, the Very Rev. Naomi Cooke, with pastoral and missional work.

“Aunty Lenore is held in deep respect by the Clarence Valley community as well as within the Diocesan community and the wider North Coast,” Dr Harvey said.

“We give thanks for her ongoing ministry amongst us, particularly her leadership and wisdom as we journey towards reconciliation together.

“The special service featured ecumenical partners in Aboriginal ministry as well as Anglican clergy from throughout Grafton Diocese.

Clarence Valley Muster

By Samantha Elley

If you are missing the country sounds from Tamworth, fret not, as the Clarence Valley Country Muster is just around the corner.

Expanded from two days to four, the event will start on July 25th and go to July 28th at 11 Coulters Lane, Ulmarra, near Grafton.

You will enjoy artists such as Jade Hurley, John, Lloyd, Jack Watson, Lindsay Waddington and Jamie Davis.

Special guest artists, Paul Ricketts, Winner of the Thornton Young Award and Nay

“Many travelled from afar to join us.”

The role of Cathedral Canon is a senior one within the Anglican Church involving both clergy and lay people.

They have particular responsibility for activities within the Cathedral and the Diocese.

Aunty Lenore is a highly respected First Nations leader within the Clarence Valley and beyond. She has been extremely active in both her lay and clergy roles for many years.

Aunty Lenore’s appointment is in recognition of her previous work and an encouragement for First Nations leadership (men and women).

McAplin, Winner of the Walk Ups in July, will also make an appearance.

Your comperes for the main stage will be Terry Gordon OAM and Ken ‘Chainsaw’ Lindsay. And bring those nerves with you, as from 10.30am on Thursday, aspiring artists can take their turn on the microphone, with John Lloyd hosting the walk-ups.

All acts will be vying for a gig at next July’s event.

Now is the time to grab a group of friends or family members and book your spot by heading to their website www.cvcmuster.com.au

or calling Wendy Gordon on 0432 741947.

Gates open for early arrival at the muster site on Tuesday, July 23.

For $120 per person, you can enjoy a full week of camping, camaraderie and entertainment at one of the best value-for-money festivals in the Clarence Valley.

Check out is Tuesday, July 30.

If you have a fre pit, bring it along as wood will be supplied. There will be songs around the campfre, best dressed Christmas and party games and a big fnale on the Sunday.

The Reverend Canon Aunty Lenore Parker and the Very Reverend Naomi Cooke, Dean of Grafton after the ceremony at Christ Church Cathedral, Grafton.

Tweed Valley Hospital Emergency Department welcomes new delivery

New equipment to help provide urgent medical care for sick babies and infants has arrived at the Tweed Valley Hospital, thanks to a generous donation to Our Kids from Tweed Community Clubs.

The Tweed Community Clubs, a collaboration of ten local clubs, donated $32,000 to Our Kids to purchase the PANDA Warmer Resuscitaire, which has been donated to the Emergency Department at the new hospital.

Clinical Nurse Consultant Melinda Johnson from the Tweed Valley Hospital Emergency Department welcomed the donation, which will support medical teams in providing the best possible care for the littlest patients.

“At Tweed Valley Hospital Emergency Department, we love the new PANDA Resuscitaire,” Melinda Johnson said.

“It is a simple-to-use and vital piece of

BLUE THE DOCUMENTARY

Ballina Shire Council is inviting the community to attend a special screening of the documentary flm BLUE at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre.

BLUE tells the ocean’s story and the critical issues it’s facing. The flm moves the audience to act rather than despair. The flm screening will be a highlight of Council’s Plastic Free July activities.

Date: 6.45pm, Thursday 25 July 2024

equipment for providing emergency care for newborns and infants.

The device allows us to examine, monitor and treat babies on an integrated weigh scale on an examination bed, with everything we may need all in one spot.”

Kingscliff Bowls Club General Manager Phil Kelly said they were proud to join with Tweed Community Clubs to

Tickets: Free (register online)

Location: Lennox Head Cultural Centre https://events.humanitix. com/blue-the-flmcommunity-screeningfor-plastic-free-july

CHANGES TO SEVEN MILE BEACH 4WD PERMITS

4WD beach users can no longer buy 1-day or 30-day permits to access Lennox Head’s Seven Mile Beach. Now, only six-month permits ($96) and annual

donate towards this vital piece of equipment.

“We are delighted to support Our Kids to purchase the PANDA for Tweed Valley Hospital through our Club Grants program,” said Mr Kelly.

“Tweed Community Clubs is dedicated to supporting community welfare and development initiatives across the Tweed region. This contribution underscores

permits ($166) are available. These changes aim to keep the beach safe and protect the environment.

Council endorsed these changes in 2023 after a sixweek public consultation period.

Driving on our beautiful beaches is a unique experience, but it comes with responsibilities. We must balance our enjoyment with the need to protect the environment and ensure everyone’s safety.

Tweed Community Clubs’ ongoing dedication to promoting health and well-being, and refects our commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those who need it most.”

Our Kids Fundraising Coordinator Rebekka Battista said the generous donation from Tweed Community Clubs and the purchase of the

https://ballina.nsw.gov. au/4wds-on-beaches

WARDELL EVENT A SUCCESS!

The end of Wardell’s Richmond Street came alive with music, creativity, art and food last month.

Thank you to all the volunteers, event organisers and facilitators who worked hard to make this free community event such a success.

We’d also like to thank everyone who attended and made this event so special.

PANDA also marked an important milestone in the history of Our Kids.

“Our Kids have proudly purchased and donated over $2.5 million worth of paediatric equipment for our local hospitals,” said Rebekka Battista, Our Kids Fundraising Coordinator.

“Our Kids rely on community donations and events to raise funds and enable us to

Your participation and enthusiasm truly brought Wonderful Wardell to life. This event was funded by Transport for NSW as part of their Open Streets program.

KOALA FIELD DAY

Council has partnered with Richmond Landcare to deliver an immersive workshop for landholders interested in koala conservation.

This event will teach you how to undertake koala surveys and learn about

keep purchasing vital, life-saving equipment.

“Thank you to Tweed Community Clubs and the community that have helped make this most recent purchase possible – and thank you to everyone who has donated and supported Our Kids.”

Our Kids raises awareness and funds to help purchase equipment for our local hospitals in the Northern Rivers. Our Kids also issues annual Community Grants for families or organisations caring for children with special needs and scholarships for our Paediatric Team to increase their skills further.

The success of Our Kids comes from the commitment and generosity of the Northern Rivers Community, which has enabled Our Kids to help build better health services for children in the Northern Rivers.

regeneration techniques to help maintain and restore koala habitat on their properties. Registration is free but places are limited!

Date: 10am - 3pm, Saturday 20 July

Tickets: Free (register online)

Location: Tintenbar

NEED IDEAS FOR SCHOOL HOLIDAYS? https://www. discoverballina.com.au/ visit/whats-on/schoolholiday-activities

Representatives from the Tweed Community Clubs and Tweed Valley Emergency Department with the new Panda Warmer Resuscitaire

Lismore City Council Invests $1 Million in Water Reservoir Remediation to Maintain Perfect Water Quality

Lismore City Council is undertaking a signifcant $1 million investment in the remediation of two key water reservoirs, ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality water. This follows an in-depth health check of the system’s condition, revealing necessary repairs for the Esmonde Street and Wyreema Avenue reservoirs.

The Esmonde Street Reservoir, built in 1938, is a substantial structure standing 7.38 meters high and 30.5 meters in diameter, with a capacity of 5.68 megalitres –nearly equivalent to three Olympic-sized swimming pools.

Remediation work on this reservoir has already commenced.

the Council employs scuba divers to inspect and clean the reservoirs, preventing sediment buildup and ensuring year-round water quality. These divers also provide condition assessment reports on the internal structures of the tanks.

circulation and quality further. The Esmonde Street Reservoir is flled by gravity from the High Street Reservoir, eliminating the need for pumping.

These reservoirs are essential for storing and delivering potable water to customers in the Lismore LGA, as mandated by the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

The Wyreema Reservoir, constructed in 1959 with a total capacity of 2.84 megalitres, will begin its remediation in early 2025. Both reservoirs play a critical role in Lismore’s water supply network.

emphasized the importance of these works. “Typically, concrete assets like these, which are 50 to 80-years-old, require in-depth service and maintenance to extend their lifespan,” he said.

Matt Potter, Lismore City Council’s Head of Water and Wastewater,

The Esmonde Street Reservoir is currently being emptied for

repairs, including sealing inside concrete construction joints with an adhesive and bandage system and addressing concrete spalling.

“Seeing the sheer size and engineering up close is incredible,” Potter remarked.

In between major remediation projects,

“Lismore City Council’s water is tested weekly at all the reservoir sites, with results vetted against the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines,” Potter noted. Postremediation, the reservoirs are cleaned and disinfected before being reflled to ensure safety.

Additionally, the Council is installing new directional water nozzles to enhance water

Importantly, customers will not experience any water interruptions during the remediation of both reservoirs.

The Esmonde Street works are expected to be completed by October this year, while the Wyreema Avenue works will start early next year and fnish by June 2025.

Don’t be cau ht o uard in a natural disaster

We have the top our apps you need to be prepared.

Hazards Near Me

Receive notifications when a natural disaster is approachin

Live Tra fic NSW

Plan ahead and see what hazards are impactin your route

Emergency Plus

The ‘what 3 words’ eature ives your precise location or emer ency services

BOM Weather

Check or weather orecasts and warnin s

Get Ready NSW

Visit nsw. ov.au/GetReadyNSW to download these our apps.

Workers in the Esmonde Street Reservoir.

Eating, sharing knowledge and ideas…Farmers’ Feast a great success

Byron Shire Council’s Farmers’ Feast, held in collaboration with the Tweed Richmond Organic Producers Organisation in early July was a coming together of taste buds and ideas.

The event was designed to showcase the best of the region’s produce while bringing together organic and regenerative farmers and land managers to share information, stories, and conversation.

Andrew Cameron, Council’s Agricultural Extension Offcer, said that because of the nature of their jobs, farmers don’t often get the opportunity to sit down and talk with other producers.

“Farming can be very hard and isolating, this was the perfect chance to get off farm to connect, share and learn with fellow like-minded farmers whilst feasting on the delicious food grown in our region” Mr Cameron said.

“Importantly it was also the chance for them to talk, get ideas, share information and hear

and see what others are doing.

“Our climate and land in this region are so incredible and this coupled with the desire for producers to meet climate change, environmental and food security issues head on, was the foundation for conversations about looking after the land and feeding the community.

“We heard from a diverse range of speakers, from those who paved the way in the early years, to those fying the fag successfully today.

“It was great to hear farmers sharing their stories and learnings but most importantly hearing about their passion, commitment and purpose.

“Many thanks to everyone who took part in the event,” Mr Cameron said.

People in interested in regenerative agriculture and other events like the Farmers Feast can sign up to the Byron Farmers Network via Council’s website.

Lismore City Council Mechanic Awarded Cory James Scholarship

In celebration of NAIDOC Week, Lismore City Council awarded the annual Cory James Memorial Scholarship for Indigenous staff to feet services mechanic Shannan Caldwell. The scholarship honours Cory James, a young Indigenous Council employee who passed away suddenly in 2019. Cory was dedicated to promoting his culture and heritage within the community.

Aunty Jenny presented the scholarship to Shannan, 33, at a ceremony held at Council’s Brunswick Street Depot. This scholarship will enable Shannan to pursue various training options to enhance his technical skills and broaden his career opportunities.

Shannan expressed his gratitude for receiving the scholarship, noting the signifcant impact it will have on his career. “I am so humbled to have been awarded this scholarship,” he said. “This opportunity will allow me to select training courses to grow my technical knowledge as a mechanic and equip me with the skills I need

to continue to advance my career. It opens pathways for my career as a mechanic, which is a job I love.”

Shannan also emphasized the importance of sharing his knowledge with his community in North Casino. “Passing knowledge to my community so they have basic understanding of keeping their car running smoothly is important to me. You never know, they might fnd the same passion as me and pursue a career as a mechanic, which is a very rewarding industry, especially at Lismore City Council.”

Lismore City Council’s General Manager, Jon Gibbons, highlighted the signifcance of the

Cory James Memorial Scholarship. “This scholarship not only honours the legacy of Cory James, a young Indigenous man dedicated to promoting his culture and heritage within our community, but it also refects our commitment to supporting the growth and development of our Indigenous staff,” he said. “By enabling Shannan to enrol in quality advanced training

opportunities, he can further advance and thrive in his career. By investing in our employees, we are investing in the future of Lismore.”

Council will continue to use National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week to recognize the achievements of Indigenous staff and support their development and career pathways.

From left: Lismore City Council General Manager Jon Gibbons, Aunty Jenny, Shannan Caldwell and Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg

reward yourself

Fire Ant Update – Wardell

Wardell, NSW - Odour detection dogs from the National Fire Ant Eradication Program identifed fre ants from 11 July in Wardell, south of Ballina, NSW. These foraging ants were detected during routine surveillance activities on the same site where the pest was frst discovered in January 2024.

The use of odour detection dogs is a critical part of the program’s strategy to locate and eradicate fre ants. It is not uncommon to fnd foraging fre ants in areas that are currently receiving eradication treatment. The recently detected ants have been treated using direct nest injection, an effective method to ensure the elimination of these pests.

The National Fire Ant Eradication Program has promptly notifed the NSW Department of Primary Industries. Both entities will collaborate closely to ensure that no fre ants remain in the affected area. Up to 2 km of the surrounding area is currently subject to intensive fre ant eradication activities.

Eradication Process: Eradication involves a multi-stage process utilizing an insect growth regulator. This treatment prevents the queen from producing viable reproductive offspring. The fre ants collect the treatment granules while

foraging, distributing the treatment throughout the colony. However, this process takes time to achieve full effect.

Comprehensive Treatment Plan: All properties within the targeted area must undergo multiple rounds of broadscale treatment over a span of two years to ensure complete eradication. This long-term strategy is essential to prevent the re-establishment of the fre ant population and to protect the local ecosystem.

For more detailed information about fre ants, the eradication program, and treatment processes, please visit freants.org.au.

Contact Information:

For any queries or concerns regarding fre ant activities in Wardell or other areas, please reach out to the National Fire Ant Eradication Program through their offcial website or contact the NSW Department of Primary Industries.

The collaborative efforts between the National Fire Ant Eradication Program and local authorities underscore the commitment to protecting communities and ecosystems from the devastating impact of fre ants. The eradication process, though lengthy, is crucial to ensuring the long-term safety and well-being of the affected areas.

Northern Rivers Rail Trail Earns Tripadvisor’s Coveted Travelers’ Choice Award

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has been honoured with Tripadvisor’s prestigious Travelers’ Choice Award, ranking it among the top 10% of attractions worldwide. This award celebrates attractions that have consistently received exceptional traveller reviews on the global travel review website, Tripadvisor, over the past year.

Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry acknowledged this remarkable achievement, emphasizing its signifcance in promoting the Rail Trail on the world stage. “It’s absolutely thrilling to see our Northern Rivers Rail Trail recognized among the world’s top attractions. It highlights how the Rail Trail has become a major visitor attraction for the Northern Rivers,” Cr Cherry said. “It has certainly become part of our region’s allure and now with the Richmond Valley section open, it is likely to bring even more visitation and economic

New Harm Minimisation Measures for Pubs and Clubs with Gaming Machines Pubs and clubs in New South Wales with gaming machines are now required to implement new harm minimisation measures to support individuals at risk of gambling harm. Effective immediately, these measures aim to foster responsible gambling within gaming venues.

Key changes include:

• Responsible Gambling Offcer (RGO): Venues with more than 20 gaming machines must have an RGO on duty whenever

beneft to the region.”

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is a shared recreation and nature trail, offering a new and essential experience in the region. It is

the Richmond Valley, covering 13.4 km, opened to the public. Meanwhile, construction of the 16.3 km section from Lismore to Bentley is progressing well and

accessible and free for people of all ages and abilities. The frst 24 km section of the Rail Trail, stretching from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek, opened on 1 March 2023. Since then, the Tweed section has welcomed more than 146,000 users, including locals, domestic, and international visitors.

In March 2024, the second section from Casino to Bentley in

gaming machines are operational. RGOs identify and support patrons displaying signs of gambling harm, make referrals to support services, and facilitate self-exclusion requests. The number of RGOs required is based on the number of gaming machines in the venue.

• Advertising and Signage Restrictions: Venues are prohibited from displaying any gaming machine-related signage or advertising on or visible from ATMs or EFTPOS terminals. Signage directing patrons to these machines must not be visible from gaming areas. Venues have

is expected to open later this year. Eventually, the Rail Trail will extend to connect with Byron and Lismore, spanning a total of 132 km. The trail provides a safe environment for walkers, cyclists, and people of all abilities to explore the stunning Northern Rivers region.

The establishment of the Rail Trail is part of Tweed Shire Council’s commitment to

a one-month grace period to comply with these rules before enforcement begins in August.

• Gambling Incident Register: Venues must maintain a register documenting incidents of patrons displaying gambling harm behaviour or requesting self-exclusion. Further measures effective from January 1, 2025, include:

• ATM Placement Requirements: ATMs must be located at least fve meters from the entry to gaming rooms or areas containing gaming machines and must not be visible from these areas.

offering the community opportunities for active and healthy living, while also enhancing the Tweed as a desirable place to live and visit. Mayor Cherry underscored the multifaceted benefts of the Rail Trail, noting its role in boosting local tourism and economy, as well as promoting wellness and outdoor activities among residents.

For those interested in more information about the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, visit northernriversrailtrail. com.au. To explore more about the Travelers’ Choice Award recipients, visit Tripadvisor. This recognition not only cements the Northern Rivers Rail Trail’s status as a must-visit destination but also showcases the successful efforts of the local community and government in preserving and promoting the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the Northern Rivers region.

Liquor & Gaming NSW inspectors are visiting venues statewide to ensure compliance and provide guidance on upcoming changes.

Minister for Gaming and Racing, David Harris, stated: “Gaming machines pose the most serious risk of gambling harm. The NSW Government is committed to implementing reforms to mitigate these harms. By placing cash dispensing facilities further away from gaming machines, we encourage patrons to take a break and reassess their spending.”

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has earned Tripadvisor’s coveted Travelers’ Choice Award ranking it in the top 10% of attractions worldwide. Credit: The Tweed Tourism Co.

Services

Australia’s Mobile Service Centre “Golden Wattle” to Visit Northern Rivers Region

Services Australia’s Mobile Service Centre, Golden Wattle, is set to visit towns in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, providing easy access to Centrelink, Medicare, National Disability Insurance Scheme, and Department of Veterans’ Affairs services.

Golden Wattle will visit:

• Nimbin:

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

• Urbenville:

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

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

• Kyogle: Monday, 22 July and Tuesday, 23 July, in the Kyogle visitor centre car park,

Summerland Way (9:00 am to 4:00 pm)

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

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

About Mobile Services Centres: Mobile Services Centres are 20-tonne trucks operated by Services Australia staff, providing regional and rural Australians with friendly, face-to-face

service and tailored support. On this trip, staff can assist with:

• Centrelink claims

• Medicare registrations

• Accessing online services

Additionally, information about the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Department of Veterans’ Affairs programs and support services will be available.

For more information, visit the Services Australia website.

Tweed entrance dredging to get underway this month

Dredging work to provide a clearer and safer channel into the Tweed River will get underway in July.

This work is part of the Tweed Sand Bypassing project, a joint government initiative of the New South Wales and Queensland governments.

The project’s twin objectives are to establish and maintain a safe, navigable entrance to the Tweed River, and restore and maintain the coastal sand drift to the beaches on the southern Gold Coast of Queensland.

“Dredging of the Tweed River entrance supports the long-term viability of the local commercial fshing

feet and assists with safe passage for recreational boaters,” said Transport for NSW Maritime Executive Director Mark Hutchings.

“Over the coming weeks, dredging will remove approximately 140,000 cubic metres of sand.”

“Our aim is to keep the Tweed River entrance navigable and deliver a long-term average of 500,000 cubic meters of sand each year to maintain sand supply to the Gold Coast’s southern beaches.”

The project’s sand transport system collects sand from the southern side of the Tweed River entrance at Letitia Spit and pumps it under the river to outlets on

the northern side. Sand also naturally accumulates at the Tweed River entrance and this is what will be removed by a dredge vessel, and deposited offshore of Bilinga, Duranbah and Fingal beaches.

All of the dredging work is subject to environmental controls and monitoring.

Boaters in the area are advised to exercise caution when using the Tweed River entrance during this time.

For more information on the project, visit https:// www.tweedsandbypass. nsw.gov.au/operations/ dredging-2024.html

Diary of a food survivor

We had plenty happening last week in relation to our little village.

I had an appointment with the Reconstruction Authority which I think I mentioned in last week’s column.

My frst thought was, there was nothing new they could tell me.

“Your house is still under assessment and we don’t have a timeline for when that will be done…

“We are waiting on new food maps from the council before we can…..

I was starting to wonder why they were bothering with these one on one meetings.

They did say, if there were any extenuating circumstances that could prioritise us to get our house bumped up the line for retro-ftting, there was an appeals process.

In good conscience,

we don’t have any such circumstance.

I was also told that our house was still being assessed for a buyback, which I thought was strange as we had registered for retroft.

I truly don’t see the value of buy-back.

Firstly, because even if they gave us pre-food prices, the housing market has moved so much, there would not be a lot of choice out there.

Secondly, we like Woodburn. We want to stay in our little village, not create another gap on our street.

So, I asked my burning questions about how much a retroft grant would be and was told they provide the frst $50,000 for repairs.

If the bill is, say, $70,000, that leaves $20,000 which we would contribute

$10,000 and they would co-pay the rest.

The same goes for house-raising.

So at least that was cleared up.

Also, they encouraged us to move ahead with our repairs, but to keep the receipts, just in case we are chosen for the retroft stream.

However, the builder will have to renovate to the code set out for food mitigation by using the right materials, waterproofng the frames etc.

Big thanks to the ABC North Coast breakfast program with Bridie Tanner and Julie Reay livestreaming from Woodburn and enjoying a lovely morning on the Visitor Information balcony overlooking the river.

They interviewed my elder son on what it was like growing up in Woodburn.

Proud mumma right here!

Little steps.

Bridie Tanner of ABC North Coast Breakfast speaking to Caleb Elley on the banks of the Richmond River at Woodburn.

ROTARY SATELLITE CLUB OF BALLINA LIFESTYLE

Community Donations

2023/24

At its recent Annual Changeover Lunch, the Rotary Satellite Club of Ballina Lifestyle awarded donations to the following local organisations, to assist them with the important work they do in our community:

• Ballina Public School Reading Project

$1,300

• “Love Bites” –Domestic Violence

prevention

$2,000

• Mental Health Support Group

$2,000

• Northern Rivers Suicide Prevention and Awareness Group $2,000

The Satellite Club’s main fundraising activity is its recycling project, in partnership with Refections Holiday Parks and the Discovery Holiday Park in Ballina. The project commenced

in September 2023, and, to date, the Club has raised over $15,000. The Club has also conducted several Bunning’s sausage sizzles. The Satellite Club is committed to assisting local groups and in 2022-23 also provided donations to the Ballina Marine Rescue Service and the Ballina Seabird and Turtle Rescue Service.

Representatives from the Mental Health Support Group, the

Travelling in Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles Information session

Date: Wednesday 31 July, 2024

Time: 11am to 11:45am

Location: Twin Towns Services Club, 2 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads, 2485

Do you, or someone you know, travel in a wheelchair accessible taxi or vehicle? The Point to Point Transport Commissioner is working to ensure safe journeys for all, and invites passengers, carers, nursing homes, medical centres and anyone involved in booking wheelchair accessible taxi services, to a free session where you will learn more about how to stay safe while travelling with a wheelchair.

Take home information packs and light refreshments will be available for all attendees.

Drop ins welcome.

Shopping centre drop-in

In addition to this session, we will have an information stand in Tweed Mall Shopping Centre. Staff will be available from 10am to 3pm to answer any questions you may have. Drop in anytime.

To secure a spot, visit pointtopoint.nsw.gov.au/events SB1834

Northern Rivers Suicide Prevention and Awareness Group and Love Bites said they were thrilled to receive a donation which will assist them in delivering their vital services to the community.

The Ballina Public School representative spoke passionately about the importance of reading and said that the donation will be used to purchase decodable reader sets of “Phonics Australia” which the school has found to be engaging and a success at encouraging students’ reading progress.

The Rotary Satellite Club of Ballina Lifestyle consists of a group of People aged from 55 plus, who have fun together and a passion for helping worthy causes in the Ballina community.

Belongil Creek and Tallow Creek both open

Belongil Creek and Tallow Creek are both open and fowing into the ocean.

With last week’s wet weather Tallow Creek opened naturally while Council mechanically opened the mouth of Belongil Creek.

Council, in accordance with approvals from the NSW Marine Parks Authority and Crown Lands, used an excavator to dig a channel through the sandbar at the mouth of Belongil Creek to release water levels in the catchment due to low level inundation experienced on the foodplain and around the town centre.

Belongil Creek and Tallow Creek are naturally occurring intermittently closed and open lakes and lagoons (ICOLL) which open and closes to the ocean.

ICOLLS are regarded as highly sensitive marine environments

and there are strict protocols and rules in place relating to any attempt to artifcially open the creeks because of the high risk of fsh kills.

Chloe Dowsett, Coastal and Biodiversity Coordinator, said that due to the low-lying and food prone nature of Byron Bay, when water levels in Belongil Creek (and Tallow Creek) build up and wet weather is forecast the sand at the creek mouth sometimes must be shifted manually,” Ms Dowsett said.

“The sudden rush of creek water to the ocean can rapidly deplete oxygen levels and cause fsh kills and we have detailed plans and processes in place to reduce the chances of this happening.

“I am pleased to report that there have been no signs of fsh kills which is great news,” Ms Dowsett said.

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.

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.

olg.nsw.gov.au

Rous County Council Secures $6.9 Million Grant for Bungawalbin Levee Remediation

Rous County Council is thrilled to announce the approval of a grant totalling up to $6.9 million under the Natural Disaster Relief Assistance Program (NDRA) and the State and Commonwealth Government’s Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. This substantial funding will facilitate the remediation of the Bungawalbin Levee, an 8km earth levee that safeguards properties along the eastern side of Bungawalbin Creek and in areas around Swan Bay and Rocky Mouth Creek.

Situated between Woodburn and Coraki in the Richmond Valley Council area, the Bungawalbin Levee is crucial for protecting against

minor and moderate foods. Recent food events in 2017, 2021, and 2022 have caused signifcant damage to the levee, underscoring its importance and raising concerns within Rous County Council and the community.

“This investment in the Bungawalbin Levee comes after considerable effort from the community and Rous to highlight its importance.

An independent assessment of the levee, funded by Rous, has paved the way for this signifcant investment.

The Bungawalbin Levee is highly valued by foodplain landowners and residents for the service it provides,” said Cr Robert Mustow, Rous Chair.

Rous County Council will collaborate with

NSW Public Works to fnalize the scope of the remediation works, ensuring optimal utilization of the grant across the levee. This initiative follows successful repairs to the Tuckombil Levee, which protects Woodburn and surrounding areas from fooding from Tuckombil Canal and the Evans River, also funded through the NDRA and disaster recovery arrangements.

The Tuckombil Levee repairs were guided by specialized geotechnical advice on repair techniques and materials. The completed work was independently inspected and assessed. Additionally, emergency repairs were recently completed on a section of the Bungawalbin

Levee, addressing rock armouring that had slumped following the 2022 food.

“The repair of the Tuckombil Levee is an example of the work Rous does to manage and maintain its large network of historic, rural food mitigation infrastructure. These

levees are crucial in reducing the impact of foods on the midRichmond community by preventing the inundation of valuable agricultural land, residential properties, evacuation roads, and infrastructure. Rous looks forward to continuing this approach

$6.9 Million Grant for Bungawalbin Levee Remediation Welcomed

The approval of a $6.9 million grant under the State and Commonwealth Government’s Natural Disaster Relief Assistance Program (NDRA) has been hailed as a major victory for food mitigation efforts in the lower Richmond Valley. This funding will enable Rous County Council to undertake critical repairs and enhance the stability and future resilience of the Bungawalbin Levee. Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson expressed his satisfaction with the funding approval, noting his persistent advocacy for the remediation of the damaged levee. “The levee is an essential piece of infrastructure that offers protection to numerous properties along the eastern side of Bungawalbin Creek. It also provides crucial evacuation routes for residents in surrounding areas and safeguards a signifcant amount of farmland,” Mr. Williamson said.

Mr. Williamson emphasized the toll

consecutive food events have taken on the levee over the past few years, leading to its destabilization and increased vulnerability to breaches during major foods. “Rous County Council has been striving to secure funding for some time, having even fnanced an independent assessment of the levee. I’m pleased that both State and Federal governments have fnally provided the necessary funds to proceed with the repairs,” he added.

Highlighting the importance of the project, Mr. Williamson stated, “Improving the long-term resilience of food mitigation infrastructure is vital to protecting local communities like those in the mid-Richmond area from future food events.”

Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan also welcomed the announcement, underscoring his efforts in advocating for the levee repairs. “Securing $6.9 million under the Commonwealth Government’s Disaster

Recovery Funding Arrangements is a signifcant achievement.

The remediation of the Bungawalbin Levee will help reduce the height of future foods, thereby protecting valuable agricultural land, residential properties, evacuation roads, and infrastructure,” Mr. Hogan said.

Mr. Hogan elaborated on the levee’s importance in protecting the Bungawalbin catchment area, which includes Swan Bay, New Italy, and Woodburn. He noted the serious concerns within the community about the levee’s ability to withstand even minor foods following the damage from the 2017, 2021, and 2022 food events.

“Flood mitigation strategies that effectively reduce the height of future foods are crucial for ensuring a sustainable and safe future for our region.

A public commitment to food mitigation will give the community the confdence to invest and live in the area,” Mr.

with the signifcant investment now secured for the Bungawalbin Levee,” said Cr Robert Mustow.

Rous County Council is committed to advancing protection and resilience for the mid-Richmond community against future food events.

by Local MPs

Hogan emphasized. The path ahead for the broader Northern Rivers region must include robust food mitigation measures. As these efforts move forward, the community can look forward to enhanced protection and resilience against future food events, fostering a safer and more secure environment for residents and local businesses alike.

With the approved funding, Rous County Council will collaborate with NSW Public Works to fnalize the scope of the remediation works, ensuring optimal use of

the grant. This initiative follows successful repairs to the Tuckombil Levee, also funded through the NDRA and disaster recovery arrangements, which protects Woodburn and surrounding areas from fooding.

Cr Robert Mustow, Rous County Council Chair, highlighted the council’s dedication to managing and maintaining its extensive network of historic rural food mitigation infrastructure. “These levees play a crucial role in reducing the impact of foods on the mid-Richmond

community by protecting agricultural land, residential properties, evacuation roads, and infrastructure,”

Cr Mustow said.

“We look forward to utilizing this signifcant investment to enhance the Bungawalbin Levee and advance our food protection efforts.”

This grant marks a signifcant step towards securing the safety and resilience of the region’s food mitigation infrastructure, providing much-needed reassurance to the communities that rely on these critical defences

Recent work completed on Bungawalbin Levee to repair a section of rock amouring that had slumped following the 2022 food.

Bungawalbin Levee

Elsa Dixon Employment Grants Reach New Heights

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across NSW are set to beneft from life-changing career opportunities through the Elsa Dixon Aboriginal Employment Grants (EDAEG) program, aimed at enhancing access to education, training, and employment within the NSW Government.

Announced today during NAIDOC Week, applications for this year’s EDAEG are now open. The program employs various strategies to support and develop Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals by creating training and employment opportunities.

Record-Breaking Achievements

Last fnancial year, the EDAEG program achieved record-breaking results, underscoring its impact and effectiveness:

• A record 315 approved employment positions, with several agencies still recruiting.

• This includes 31 permanent ongoing positions, a signifcant increase from just fve permanent positions in 2021/2022.

• A record 85 employment grants approved, the highest number yet by the EDAEG team. The grants subsidize the salary, development, and support costs of Aboriginal and

Torres Strait Islander employees, promoting diversity and innovation in public service agencies and local government authorities.

Funding Programs for 2024/2025

The EDAEG will fund the following programs in 2024/2025:

• School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships: $10,000 one-off payment to support school-based apprenticeships and traineeships.

• Post School Element: Up to $30,000 (Part-time or Full-time Employment Status) to support the continuation of employment for learners who successfully completed their High

Building More Safe Places in Tweed for Women and Children Experiencing Family and Domestic Violence

Local MP and Assistant Minister for Social Services and the Prevention of Family Violence, Justine Elliot, announced that the Albanese Labor Government is committed to providing more emergency accommodation in Tweed for women and children experiencing domestic violence. Under the Safe Places Emergency Accommodation (Safe Places) project, 26 new Safe Places will be built in Tweed.

School Certifcate (HSC, Year 12).

• Aboriginal Adult Apprenticeships and Traineeships (AAAT): Up to $40,000 to support the creation of employment through apprenticeships or traineeships.

• Permanent Ongoing Employment: Up to $40,000 to support the creation of permanent employment positions.

The annual grants are named after Aboriginal activist Elsa Dixon, who played a key role in improving social outcomes for Aboriginal people, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s.

For more information on the Elsa Dixon Aboriginal Employment

Grants and how to apply, please the QR code.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, said: “This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through targeted training and employment programs.”

“These grants not only create employment opportunities but also ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees receive the support and development they need to succeed and thrive in their careers. NAIDOC

Week reminds us of the importance of this support as we celebrate the contributions and resilience of our Indigenous communities.”

“This year, with an allocation of $1.88 million, we look forward to supporting even more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals in securing meaningful employment and advancing their professional skills.”

Accessing medical care when it’s urgent

This initiative is part of the Government’s reform program to improve women’s safety under the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032.

“Family and domestic violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness and housing uncertainty for women and children across Australia,” said Justine Elliot. “Having a safe place to go and receive support is vital for women and children leaving family and domestic violence, including here in Tweed.”

Once construction is complete, the 26 Tweed Safe Places will assist more than 100 women and children each year. The successful completion of a Safe Places project in Tweed will provide access to necessary expert support and offer much-needed comfort and refuge from unsafe situations.

The Safe Places Emergency Accommodation Program offers capital investment to fund the building, renovation, or purchase of emergency accommodation for women and children who cannot stay safely at home. The Safe Places Emergency Accommodation Inclusion Round will fund 19 new projects to deliver approximately 720 new safe places across Australia over the next three years. Currently, around 6,000 women and children are supported annually by existing Safe Places sites.

The Albanese Government has committed a total of

$3.4 billion to women’s safety and $32 billion to new housing initiatives. More details regarding the Safe Places and the provider will be released in the coming weeks.

For more information on the Safe Places Emergency Accommodation Program, visit the Department of Social Services website.

If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family, or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, chat online via 1800RESPECT, or text 0458 737 732.

Feeling worried or no good? No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn. Speak to a 13YARN Crisis Supporter by calling 13 92 76. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, contact the Men’s Referral Service at 1300 766 491 or visit No to Violence. www.1800respect.org. au/

People in northern NSW are being reminded of the care options that are available to them, as winter illnesses continue to impact the local community and the region’s busy emergency departments (EDs).

Northern NSW Local Health District Chief Executive, Tracey Maisey said those with nonlifethreatening conditions are encouraged to call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for fast and free health advice from a registered nurse.

You can also check your symptoms and fnd a service online at Healthdirect.gov.au or on the Healthdirect app.

“When you call Healthdirect, a registered nurse will assess your condition and guide you to the care you need, which could be a local health service, such as urgent care service, or connect you with a virtual care service,” Ms Maisey said.

“Hospitals in northern NSW are extremely busy this winter, with high numbers of ED presentations month on month. Across the District, we are seeing an average of 622 people present to our EDs each day, which is higher than the same time last year.

“By utilising services like Healthdirect, we can ensure our busy EDs are reserved for the most urgent and highlevel care that can’t be accessed anywhere else.”

Ms Maisey also reminded the community there are a few simple steps people can take to help protect themselves and their loved ones from respiratory illnesses.

“The most important thing to do is booking in for your fu vaccine if you haven’t already – it is not too late. Please stay home if you are sick. If you are unwell and need to leave home, please wear a mask and avoid high-risk settings including aged care and hospitals,” Ms Maisey said.

Chief Executive of Healthy North Coast Monika Wheeler said in recent years there has also been signifcant investment to enhance primary care access in northern NSW.

“If you can’t get a quick appointment with your regular general practice or care provider, there are several free, local options available for urgent care needs,” Ms Wheeler said.

“Healthy North Coast is also supporting the Australian Government’s

establishment of a GP-led Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in Lismore. The clinic is open seven days a week from 7.30am to 7.30pm, and accepts walk-ins, with no appointment needed.

“If you have a lifethreatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000) or go to an ED. Examples of lifethreatening emergencies include chest pressure or pain lasting more than 10 minutes, diffculty breathing, uncontrollable bleeding, or sudden collapse.”

Lismore Medicare Urgent Care Clinic No appointment needed, walk-ins welcome. Open 7 days a week. The clinic provides free, immediate treatment to Medicare Card holders for non-life-threatening injuries or illnesses. Services include treatment for respiratory illnesses, gastroenteritis, minor infections, burns or cuts, sprains and sports injuries, STIs, bites and rashes, eye and ear infections.

Members of the community may also be directed to Lismore Medicare Urgent Care Clinic by calling Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 or via the North Coast Health Connect website.

NSW Government Backs Communities to Improve North Coast Fishing Spots and Habitat

Fourteen fshing groups and land management organizations in the Northern Rivers and North Coast regions will receive over $315,000 to enhance local recreational fshing spots. This funding is part of the NSW Government’s $649,300 Habitat Action Grants program, aimed at improving the environment for recreational fsh species.

Funded through NSW Recreational Fishing Fees, the Habitat Action Grants support angling clubs, community groups, local councils, and organizations in rehabilitating fsh habitats in both freshwater and saltwater areas across the state.

Grants of up to $40,000 are available for projects such as removing barriers to fsh passage, rehabilitating riparian lands, re-snagging waterways, removing exotic vegetation, and stabilizing riverbanks.

Funded Projects:

• Boundary Creek Restoration: $17,915 to improve fsh habitat by controlling invasive weeds and restoring native vegetation along 500m of streambank in Boundary Creek.

• Boatharbour Riparian Repair: $39,265 to restore 1.1km of the Wilsons River riparian zone, enhancing waterway health and fsh habitat.

• Turning Topsy Creek Around: $3,200 to restore 360m of native riparian vegetation on Topsy Creek, addressing erosion and weed spread post-2022 food.

• Fish Habitat Enhancement –

Fawcett’s Creek: $24,166 to remove invasive weeds and enhance fsh habitat with native plantings, regulating water temperature and reducing sedimentation.

• Bugam Waterway Restoration, Goolmar Creek: $34,514 to slow water fow on Goolmangar Creek, addressing washout damage from recent foods.

• Regeneration of Coopers Creek Bank: $19,994 to remove weeds and promote native rainforest growth along 400m of Cooper’s Creek.

• Boomerang Creek Habitat Restoration: $28,310 to rehabilitate 775m of degraded riparian creek system and restore ecosystem function.

• Uki River Carers – Tweed River Rehabilitation: $18,765 for weed control and tree planting to improve riparian and aquatic habitats on community land adjoining the Tweed River.

• Nymboida Riverbank Restoration: $13,043 to protect the Nymboida River by excluding stock from riverbanks to prevent erosion and nutrient runoff.

• Coldstream River Riparian Rehabilitation: $22,030 to regenerate and revegetate 380m of riparian area with 500 native trees.

• Upper Coopers Creek Riparian Weed Control: $6,537 to replace invasive vegetation with native species on Upper Coopers Creek.

• Orara River Riparian

Repair: $39,920 to repair riparian areas on three former dairy farms, including 1500m of livestock exclusion fencing.

• Fawcett’s Creek Riparian Restoration: $39,360 to enhance fsh habitat along 1.62ha of Fawcett’s Creek through weed control, native planting, and riparian fencing.

• Rewilding Narlu –Restoration of Fridays Creek: $21,867 to rejuvenate fsh habitat and natural landscape along Fridays Creek. Statements from Offcials:

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty: “These grants directly reinvest the fees paid by fshers to improve local fshing spots, increasing the chances of a good catch. They also engage recreational fshers, organizations, and community members in improving fsh habitat and recreational fshing opportunities.”

State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn: “These community-led projects improve the region’s waterways and put NSW Recreational Fishing License Fees to good use. Funded projects include managing stock access to waterways, revegetating areas with native plants, controlling weed species, and reintroducing woody habitat into rivers and estuaries.”

For more information on Habitat Action Grants, visit here https://www.dpi.nsw. gov.au/fshing/habitat/ rehabilitating/ahr-grantsprogram

NSW Government Allocates $500,000 to Boost Women-Led Social Enterprises

The NSW Government has allocated $500,000 to the Social Enterprise Council of NSW and ACT (SECNA) for a two-year initiative to support women-led social enterprises. This effort is part of the Women in Business Networks (WIBN) grant program, launched in 2023 to empower women economically by backing women-led businesses. Under the WIBN program, $2 million has been earmarked over four years to help women in small businesses build capacity and leverage formal networks. The 2024 WIBN grant focuses on assisting women in starting or expanding social enterprises in NSW. SECNA’s Role in Empowering Women

This year’s grant recipient, SECNA, will support 500 women, including those with disabilities and from culturally and racially marginalized communities. The Women in Social Enterprise project aims to connect these

women with other social entrepreneurs, fostering robust networks across key sectors and industries. These networks will enable women to share experiences, access resources, and support each other’s success.

Building a Supportive Network

The project will establish a network of champions across NSW, serving as key contacts for women looking to start or build their social enterprises. These champions will host local face-to-face networking events and connect women to necessary resources and support. Participants will also have access to advice through an online community for peer support and virtual webinars. Expert advice and collaboration opportunities will help women overcome challenges and set up their social enterprises for success.

For more information about the WIBN grant program, visit the NSW Women in Business Networks website. Women interested in

starting or growing their social enterprises can register for SECNA’s program on the SECNA website.

Government and SECNA Statements Minister for Women

Jodie Harrison emphasized the importance of empowering women in business:

“Our government is committed to empowering women in business to seize opportunities to succeed fnancially and independently, as well as making it easier for like-minded women to connect and share their knowledge and expertise. The Women in Business Networks grant is designed to support women who are on an exciting path of entrepreneurship and are set to fourish with a little extra support. This grant ensures that women-led businesses can continue to go from strength to strength, not only achieving their own goals but inspiring others to begin their own business journeys.”

Less than One Month to Have Your Say on Regional Telecommunications Issues

Australians living and working in regional, rural, and remote communities are encouraged to voice their concerns and suggestions on telecommunications issues, with submissions closing in less than a month. The Hon Alannah MacTiernan, Chair of the Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee, has urged people to participate via a short survey and to spread the word to

friends, family, and colleagues across regional Australia before the review closes on July 31.

The Committee, established to conduct the Australian Government’s Regional Telecommunications Review, is examining the experiences of people in these areas and the suitability of their telecommunications services. Residents, businesses, and community organisations can

make a submission or complete the survey, with the Terms of Reference outlining key issues for the Committee to examine. An issues paper has also been released to shape ideas.

Local community input will be essential for the Review—held once every three years—which will see the Committee deliver its recommendations to the government.

Previous Reviews have led to policy initiatives and programs such

as the Mobile Black Spot Program and the National Audit of Mobile Coverage, all direct results of community feedback.

The Terms of Reference, set by Federal Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, outline the key focus areas in the Review, including:

• Opportunities for new and emerging technologies to strengthen telecommunications systems in regional,

rural, and remote areas of Australia.

• Effectiveness of existing government initiatives.

• Modernisation of the universal services arrangements.

• Strengthening telecommunications in natural disasters.

• Extent to which the needs of First Nations communities are being met.

The 2024 Review is chaired by the Hon Alannah MacTiernan, who has served in

federal, state, and local government. She is joined by Committee members Mr Ian Kelly, Ms Kristy Sparrow, the Hon Fiona Nash, and Dr Jessa Rogers. The Committee will report to Minister Rowland by December 31, 2024.

For more information on the Review and to participate in the survey or make a submission, visit the Regional Telecommunications Review website https:// www.rtirc.gov.au/ consultation

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

MUM, TELL ME ALL ABOUT ‘TITLES’

I asked ‘Mum Jane’ what ‘TITLE’ really means ‘cos I get confused by this word in my reading. Mum Jane spoke. (It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ back) ‘Crikey Leems, I’m so proud of you for asking a kinda ½ intelligent question! Well, my understanding is that ‘TITLE’ is a word or group of words attached to a person to honour, Rank, O ce, Occupation etc. (a TITLE will garner either admiration or envy from some, and complete disdain from others!)

‘Gosh Leems, there are SO many ‘Titles’. e.g., Sir: ief: Manager: Tradie: Doctor: Murderer: Professor: Chef: CEO: Journalist: Sex Worker: President: Domestic Violence Victim: Vet: Author: Hostie: Cat: Explorer: Divorcee: Council Worker: Spinster: Public Servant: Retail Worker: Librarian: Lawyer: Vampire: Labor Voter: Dentist: Aged Pensioner: Housewife: Pole Dancer: Temp/ Casual/Contract Worker: Comedian: Secretary: Puppy: In uencer: Middle Child: Aged Care Worker: Pilot: Volunteer: Cleaner: Warrior: Astronaut: Some folk will form either a positive or negative view about someone based simply on a TITLE. Does this help?’ Crikey & Holy Toledo, I’ve gotta think about this & told Mum I would have a deep meditate; we had SUN yesterday (yippee!) so I lay on the warm grass, paws in air & tail ‘a’swish’ for 15 minutes of deep thought. ‘OK Mum, I’ll now address this myself. Did you know Title also applies to the name of a book, composition, artistic works & lots of other

stu .’ Well, of course of I got the scowl from hell from her pruney face so of course I went on. ‘Mum, have you tted into any of the TITLE categories in life you’ve mentioned? ‘Come on, tell me NOW!’ ‘Leems, tea & bikkies please. Gottit?’ (YEP! I gottit!) I waited in anticipation for words from the silly Old Woman. ‘OK Leems, I t into at least 9 of the Titles listed.’ CRIKEY, I had a kinda dizzy turn. I do hope it isn’t ‘Warrior’ ‘cos Mum is as far from being a Warrior as I am from being a erce Lion. Oooh, I JUST HAVE to ask! ‘Mum, tell me about the worst ‘Title’ you’ve ever had? (I pawed my ears over, concerned about her answer but kinda secretly listened!) ‘Well, Leems, in all honesty, it was the title ‘Temp/Casual/Contract’ Worker for a Govt. Dept. Are you aware that Govt. Departments apply a ‘Graded Title’ to those who work for them? (NUP, I didn’t ‘cos I’m just a simple CAT!) What this means Leems, that one can be treated with ‘dismissive’ behaviour from others in a workplace related solely to their Grade Level’. As a ‘Temp/Casual/Contract Worker’ I experienced some meanie-puss attitudes from coworkers Leems; whilst I did become a ‘permanent full time’ employee the recollection of the words ‘you’re just a Temp’ never le me. It meant, in the early days, I didn’t much count as a valid member in my workplace. No Sick Leave, Annual Leave or Holidays. SO, Leems, ‘TITLES’ in essence, mean zilcho to me and shall until the day all of us are treated, & treat each other, with kindness & respect no matter what our Title ‘cos we’re all really, just the same. Never forget Leems, the words by William Saroyan. “Be the Inferior of no man, nor of any be the Superior. Remember that every man is a variation of yourself.” CRIKEY, Mum can be quite unswerving in her views on people & situations at times, but I reckon what she’s just said makes sense. On that note, we are now going to watch ‘ e Legend of Tarzan’ & snuggle & see Lions & stu . Nitey with purrsies, Leemo.

Enhanced domestic, family and sexual violence support for women in Lismore

Women in Lismore and surrounding areas will beneft from improved access to domestic violence and sexual assault support services, with a $130,000 funding boost for Northern Rivers Women and Children’s Services Incorporated (NORWACS).

NORWACS is a community-based charity which provides trauma informed care and services to support women’s health and wellbeing.

The investment will help to better meet the needs of local women following experiences of sexual, family or domestic violence. It will complement the signifcant work led by NSW Health Northern NSW Sexual Assault Services in supporting victim-survivors of violence in the region.

The NSW Government is committed to strengthening relationships between primary care, community-based care and the public health system to develop robust local referral pathways and responses for women.

Quotes attributable to Regional Health Minister Ryan Park:

“The NSW Government is pleased to support NORWACS, which has provided confdential, compassionate health and wellbeing assistance for women in the Lismore region for more than 25 years.”

“As Minister for Health, it is one of my priorities to ensure we’re improving access to healthcare services for women, especially vulnerable members of the community who may be impacted by domestic

violence.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Women and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison:

“This funding boost will help NORWACS continue the important work they do in the Northern Rivers, providing targeted, trauma-informed support for women and children, especially those who have experienced domestic or sexual violence.

“In addition, their work with other health professionals and services, including the four NSW Health Sexual Assault Services in the area, improves awareness and promotes understanding of the impacts of sexual, family and domestic violence.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Lismore

Janelle Saffn:

“I welcome this extra funding for NORWACS that recognises its great work supporting the health and safety of local women and children.

“In particular this is timely support for NORWACS project addressing the dangers of non-fatal strangulation in sexual assault and intimate partner violence.

“NORWACS is working to educate the community about the serious risk of brain injury from non-fatal strangulation and is identifying gaps in diagnosis and treatment and delivering training for GPs and health workers to get them up to speed on this issue.

“The extra funding will also allow NORWACS to increase its hours of vital DV outreach work in our region.”

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.

Pictured, from left, are NORWACS project manager and non-fatal strangulation pathways site coordinator Emma Siegel, NSW Minister for Health and Regional Health Ryan Park, Lismore MP Janelle Saffn, NORWACS CEO Kelly Banister and Deputy Secretary Regional Health, Regional Health Division, NSW Health Luke Sloane.

Residents and Industry Specialists Invited to Shape Future of Events in Tweed

Residents and industry specialists are invited to help shape the future of events and sponsorship in the Tweed Shire, ensuring the region attracts and supports activities that highlight its natural beauty, creativity, and culinary strengths.

Two key documents, the draft Tweed Events Strategy 2024-2028 and the draft Events Sponsorship Policy, have been placed on public exhibition for review and feedback.

The draft Tweed Events Strategy 2024-2028 aims to guide the sustainable growth, development, and delivery of events that are uniquely suited to the region. It is complemented by the draft Events Sponsorship

Policy, which outlines the framework for event support, detailing eligibility criteria, assessment processes, and funding conditions.

Mayor Chris Cherry emphasized the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of the local events industry.

“Events play a crucial role in boosting our economy by attracting visitors, creating jobs, and supporting local businesses,” Cr Cherry said. “By fostering a vibrant events scene, we can ensure economic growth and wellbeing. From arts, music, and cultural festivals to foodie celebrations, sporting competitions, markets, and community events, they all play a

vital role in bringing our community together.”

Cr Cherry highlighted that the Tweed is at an exciting stage as an attractive and sustainable event destination. “These draft documents outline Council’s commitment to fostering events that align with the Tweed’s unique identity and community values. If the Events Strategy sets the tone and vision for attracting and supporting uniquely Tweed events, then the Sponsorship Policy acts as the playbook, defning specifc guidelines and procedures to bring these plans to action.”

The draft Tweed Events Strategy 2024-2028 outlines the sustainable growth, development, and delivery of events

tailored for the region. The draft Events Sponsorship Policy details who is eligible for support, how events will be assessed, and the conditions for receiving funding.

Residents and industry representatives are encouraged to review the draft Events Strategy 2024-2028 and draft Events Sponsorship Policy and share their feedback by 4 pm on Wednesday, 31 July 2024.

Visit yoursaytweed. com.au/eventsstrategy to share your thoughts and help the Council create a vibrant, inclusive, and successful event scene in the Tweed for everyone to enjoy.

Successful Enforceable Undertaking Agreement Delivers Wide-Reaching Safety Improvements for Major Contractor

A New South Wales civil infrastructure and utilities contractor, Ferrycarrig Construction Pty Ltd, has implemented nearly $140,000 worth of safety initiatives under an Enforceable Undertaking (EU). This action underscores the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s (NHVR) commitment to enhancing industry-wide safety standards. Following two signifcant mass breach incidents, Ferrycarrig Construction proposed nine safety initiatives. These include ensuring subcontracts contain compliance-assuring conditions and other Chain of Responsibility (CoR) performancemanagement provisions,

targeted CoR training focused on loading procedures, a load management campaign, and establishing a calibration register.

The company also planned to retroft scales to its remaining feet of 6 to 10-wheeler trucks, implement a load mass verifcation system to record each loaded trip, and add labels indicating the allowable mass limits to its trucks.

The NHVR accepted the EU in September 2023, and since then, Ferrycarrig Construction has successfully delivered the proposed safety measures.

NHVR Executive Director of Statutory Compliance, Raymond Hassall, highlighted the broader safety benefts

of EUs. “Enforceable Undertakings allow the NHVR to further enhance, encourage, and monitor safer behaviours, which in turn improves safety for everyone on the road,” Mr. Hassall said. “Rather than companies paying fnes for breach incidents, EUs are designed so the money is instead invested internally on measures which directly lead to safer outcomes.”

Mr. Hassall praised the initiative as a prime example of the NHVR’s commitment to improving safety within the transport community. “This case shows how the NHVR’s safety measures deliver improved outcomes not only for the business and its workforce but for the

Northern Rivers Careers Expo Returns

The Northern Rivers Careers Expo is back!

Join us at the Lismore Showgrounds on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, from 9 am to 2 pm. Hosted by Connect Northern Rivers, this year’s free event promises to be as exciting as ever, welcoming over 3,000 students from across the North Coast of NSW.

Open to all ages, the Expo offers job opportunities, career advice, and further study options.

Highlights include a job vacancy board sponsored by Real Futures, two pavilions with businesses offering jobs, apprenticeships, and traineeships, and numerous universities from across Australia.

TAFE NSW and Greg Clark Building sponsor the “Try a Trade” pavilion, providing hands-on experiences in felds like Aviation, Early Childhood, Hair & Beauty, Construction, and more.

Key participants include:

wider public.”

EUs are high-level statutory agreements that offer an alternative to prosecution and are entered into voluntarily.

The NHVR retains the right to take action if the proposed measures are not satisfactorily implemented.

Before agreeing to an EU proposal, the NHVR considers several factors, including the promotion of strong safety outcomes, broad benefts to the transport community, alignment of the undertaking’s value with potential court penalties, and the specifcity and measurability of the proposed measures.

• Major Training Group

• O’Brien Electrical and Plumbing Event highlights include:

• Defence Force vehicles and simulators

• Animals

• Speedway cars and go-karts

• SCU’s electric kombi van and solar Sunfower

• Ready Steady Cook competition

• Student performances from six schools

• CPR demonstrations

• Fancy cars from Frizelle’s

• Food and coffee vans

• Virtual Reality experiences

• “Try a Trade” activities

The North Coast Community College will host their annual North Coast Junior Barista Championship, featuring live music by Bodhi Action and a 40 Year Footloose Dance Extravaganza at 12:20 pm.

• Southern Cross University (Expo Partner)

• SAE Creative Media Institute (Performance Stage Sponsor)

• Local councils

• Byron Wildlife Sanctuary

• Coles

• Casino Food Co-op

• Jobs Northern Rivers

• Australian Defence Force Careers

• Essential Energy

• Frizelle Sunshine Automotive Group

• Multiple universities

• Marine Rescue NSW

• Sydney Actors School and Sydney Film School

• Headspace

• NSW Police

• Ballina RSL

• Your Local Club (Ready Steady Cook Sponsor)

Through the ABC Takeover initiative, local high school students will interview attendees and stakeholders, flm the event, and explore career opportunities in the Film and Television industry, empowering them to share their ideas for regional improvement. For more information, contact Connect Northern Rivers at 1300 183 352 or Ingrid Johansen at 0447 185 428.

Special thanks to our Expo Partners TAFE NSW and Southern Cross University, our Try a Trade Sponsor

Greg Clark Building, Your Local Club our Ready, Steady, Cook Sponsor, SAE our Performance Stage Sponsor, and Real Futures our Jobs Board Sponsor.

Community members enjoying the vibrant Kinship Festival in Murwillumbah, NSW.

Competitors in action at a thrilling sporting event in Kingscliff, NSW.

Like contracting Ross River fever, you can’t just catch such things without being bitten by something; and thus, my fascination for words, I think, stems from being hooked on language by philosophers, or more accurately – philosophical poets. People not afficted by black and white logics that frogmarch unsuspecting afcionados into bland, know-it-all frames of mind.

When I ponder the difference between poetical or philosophical utterance and that of your more functional or everyday usages of language: the one point of differentiation is that the former type is more focused on meaning, rather than strictly making sense. Penetrating the surface instead of skimming across that surface at light speed.

As such, my favourite form of writing is prose written by poets, or the true keen-eyed monarchs of the literary world. There is something so astounding about the output of poets when they apply themselves poetically (which is the unfeign-able denominator of their personality) to the longer form of essays and prose. What they bring or ‘apply’ to this genre of literature is a skill so rare – that it could be considered the rarest, albeit highest of all creative attributes.

Two Nobel Prizewinning poets whom I deeply admire are the Mexican Octavio Paz and the LithuanianPole Czeslaw Milosz. Respectively they wrote prose works that singlehandedly exposed the deep faws and failings of their homelands to the world. Milosz’ groundbreaking ‘The Captive Mind’ written in the early 1950s is considered as having ‘lifted the lid’ on the

Saffn Secures $30,000 Grant for Youth Crime Prevention

brutally repressive antics of Eastern European Communism, well prior to anyone really suspected such.

Similarly, in one illuminating swoop, Paz made stealth note in his ‘Labyrinth of Solitude’, “Modern man likes to pretend that his thinking is wide-awake. But this wide-awake thinking has led us into the mazes of a nightmare in which the torture chambers are endlessly repeated in the mirrors of reason.”

Only someone of an inherently poetical nature could’ve ‘tailored’ a broad assessment in such a meticulously ftting way.

Or as their fellow Nobel Prize-winning poet Louise Gluck once noted, “The dream of art is not to assert what is already known but to illuminate what has been hidden… Art is not a service. Or, rather, it does not reliably serve all people in a standardised way. Its service is to the spirit, from which it removes the misery of inertia.” That being the deep-seated dread you can feel when you’re going nowhere, even when you’re not.

While poets might not necessarily be the most acceptable or mainstream of subjects, they do tend to be the ones who call the cultural shots, and much of the time – from well beyond the grave.

As Octavio Paz once suggested, “Poetry is time unveiled…Poetry, without ceasing to be language, is something beyond language.”

Beyond language, and yet squarely within the heightened reach of us all. A sentiment Joseph Brodsky alluded to when he once said, “A poet is someone for whom every word is not the end but the beginning of a thought… For an ink pot glows bright whenever someone mentions light, especially in a tunnel.”

Lismore MP Janelle Saffn has successfully secured a $30,000 grant for North-Tracks Works, a Lismore-based organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable young people. This funding will enable the expansion of their life-changing programs to engage more youth in Goonellabah, Coraki, and Casino.

Ms. Saffn expressed her gratitude to NSW Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley for approving the grant following her advocacy on behalf of NorthTracks Works. She praised the organization, which operates out of a shed in South Lismore, for its impactful work with young people aged 11 to 18, offering one-on-one support, mentoring, and practical learning opportunities.

“I previously secured a $44,000 Local Small Commitments Allocation grant to help North-Tracks purchase equipment and materials for skill-building,” Ms. Saffn said. “This additional grant will allow North-Tracks to employ youth workers and expand their proven youth program, which is supported

by Richmond Police District Commander Superintendent Scott Tanner.”

Patrick Higgins, Chair of North-Tracks Works and a local real estate agent, thanked Ms. Saffn for her efforts in securing the additional funding from Minister Catley. “We don’t ft in the box for normal funding. Our approach is

about creating a sense of belonging and purpose through our skills program and training working dogs. It’s the work with the dogs that bridges the gap,” Mr. Higgins explained.

“At North-Tracks, we spend 10 percent looking back, 10 percent at where you are now, and 80 percent looking forward. We help them chase their dreams and goals,” he added. “Our team has three basic goals: keep them safe and alive, keep them out of jail, and help them move forward to live a full and productive life.”

This funding is set to sustain and expand North-Tracks Works’ impactful initiatives, providing more opportunities for at-risk youth to gain essential skills and fnd a sense of purpose.

Electronic Flood Warning Signs and Cameras Installed in Byron Shire

Three sets of automated food warning signs and cameras have been installed on Main Arm Road, Left Bank Road, and Myocum Road in Byron Shire. These signs, equipped with solar-powered fashing lights, activate when water levels reach a trigger point, providing a crucial warning to drivers about dangerous road conditions.

Katie Hughes, Acting Infrastructure Planning Coordinator, emphasized

the importance of these new installations, funded by a $300,000 grant from the NSW Government and the Commonwealth’s Disaster Risk Reduction Fund. “Main Arm Road, Left Bank Road, and Myocum Road are busy rural roads, and during signifcant wet weather events, drivers are regularly caught out by attempting to drive through food water in these areas,” Ms. Hughes said.

“The SES has

responded to countless calls to help drivers whose vehicles are stuck in the water, and sadly, some lives have been lost over the years,” she added. “The new lights will automatically come on when water reaches a certain level, indicating the road is closed and the situation is dangerous.”

In addition to the warning lights, cameras have been installed that update images every 15 minutes. These images feed through to the

Council’s Emergency Dashboard, allowing people to assess road conditions before traveling.

“People can see the images from the cameras now by visiting the Byron Shire Emergency Dashboard website,” Ms. Hughes said.

This initiative aims to enhance driver safety and reduce the risk of food-related incidents on these busy rural roads.

The prose of poets...by Nigel Dawe

Lismore MP Janelle Saffn with North-Tracks Works Chair Patrick Higgins, Secretary/board member Kevin Bell and Mr Bell’s working dog Maezzie.

Council Seeks Community Feedback on New Car Park Plans in Bogangar

The Council is inviting community feedback on plans to build a new ground-level car park in Hastings Road, Bogangar, adding 52 parking spaces to the popular Tweed Coast village.

The proposed car park will be located on Council-owned land beside the children’s centre in Hastings Road, just south of the back entrance to Woolworths supermarket. This site has been designated for car park use since 2005, with initial plans for a multi-level car park.

However, at the recent Council meeting in May 2024, Councillors agreed to pursue a more costeffective ground-level option, estimated at up to $400,000, rather than a 4-level car park costing over $11 million.

Key features of the proposed ground-level car park include:

• 52 parking spaces

• Central bay lighting

for safety

• Prohibition of overnight parking

• A shared pedestrian zone with clear signage

• A maximum speed limit of 10 km/h

Manager Roads and Stormwater Danny Rose emphasized the importance of local input. “Bogangar is one of the Tweed Coast’s most popular destinations for visitors

and residents and has grown signifcantly over the past 20 years,” Mr. Rose said. “The proposed new car park should help ease parking pressures, particularly in summer when the beaches and cafes are thriving.

We’ve been consulting with adjacent business owners, neighbors, and community representatives over the

past year, but there’s still an opportunity for the community to provide additional feedback.”

The Council has engaged with key stakeholders, including neighboring property owners, tenants, and community groups such as the Cabarita Progressive Business Association, Cabarita Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Lions Club

of Cabarita Beach Pottsville Beach Inc, and the Cabarita Beach Bogangar Residents Association Inc.

These consultations have helped shape the current proposal, which aligns with Developer Contribution Plan No. 23, funding this initiative.

The landscaping strategy for the car park incorporates a permeable

soil cell system to promote tree health and protect infrastructure assets. Tree species like Watergums, Lilly Pilly, and Red Cottonwood will be planted for their shade capabilities and low maintenance requirements.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to review the design plan and landscaping overview at yoursaytweed.com.au/ caba-public-car-park and complete a short survey by Sunday, 4 August 2024.

“Your valuable input will play a key role in fnalizing the project proposal for the Engineering SubPortfolio Board, ensuring thorough consideration of engineering details and fnancial impacts,” Mr. Rose added.

For more information and to provide feedback, visit the project page or contact the Council directly.

Future Site of the proposed car park on Hastings Road, Bogangar. This vacant area is set to transform into a convenient parking space, signifcantly enhancing accessibility for both locals and visitors.

Aerial view of the proposed car park site on the vacant block at Hastings Road, Bogangar, NSW. This development will offer 52 parking spaces, signifcantly enhancing accessibility for the community.

Samantha’s Book

Why This Gomeroi and Barkindji Business Owner Celebrates Indigenous Excellence Every Week

Gabriella: La Vita Mia

Title: Gabriella: La Vita Mia

Author: Anne A Gallo

Price: $28.95

Publisher: Shawline

Publishing By Samantha Elley

What it must be like, being uprooted from the country of your birth and taken to another that is a different culture and language from what you are used to.

That is the experience of Gabriella, whose family migrates to Australia in the mid-1960s from Italy. They buy and run a fruit shop, where Gabriella must work hard, not having the life of a carefree teenager.

She becomes depressed and introverted, resenting that her brother Enzo can study while she must leave school at 15 and work in the shop. It is diffcult to be

Grafton resident Wesley Fernando, a proud Gomeroi and Barkindji man, grandfather, and owner of three small businesses, refects on what success means to him during NAIDOC Week and how he celebrates Indigenous excellence daily.

Wesley believes that while NAIDOC Week holds special signifcance, it’s crucial to recognize and celebrate Indigenous heritage and excellence throughout the year. “My work has taken me all over the world, from representing my people at the United Nations to working across communities in NSW, but I always come back to celebrating what we have here in the oldest living culture in the world,” Wesley says. “This is what NAIDOC is all about.”

In 2019, Wesley and his wife Laura purchased the Just Cuts salon in Grafton after Laura, who had managed the salon, fell in love with the business model. They expanded by acquiring Just Cuts Armidale in 2021. Laura began her hairdressing career at 19, starting a traineeship with her mother before becoming a Just Cuts Stylist. Now, the couple employs 15 local stylists across the two salons and sponsors numerous local sporting teams and community organizations.

Wesley launched his business consultancy, Gombiz Solutions, in October 2023. Named after the Gomeroi people, one of Australia’s four largest Indigenous nations, Gombiz focuses on building governance capability within organizations

and individuals, aiming to connect businesses and people with lifechanging outcomes.

“Just Cuts provided the stability to pursue my true passion,” Wesley says. “Family business is important to me. I’ve had that with my wife in Just Cuts for many years, and now I’m proud to share the next step with my son Wes Jnr, who is a trainee in Gombiz Solutions.”

The couple’s hard work has not gone unnoticed.

Wesley and Laura have been named fnalists for Just Cuts Franchise Owner of the Year 2024, with the winner to be announced at the upcoming conference in Fiji. “Seeing the calibre of some of the other owners who were nominated, we were so proud to be in the same category. We’re humble but happy,” Wesley

remarks.

Wesley’s advice for small business success is thorough preparation. “Due diligence is really important in any business. You have to believe in what you are doing. We love that Just Cuts is a place anyone can go and feel welcome. The decades of history told us it wasn’t a fashin-the-pan brand.”

He also appreciates the diversity and professionalism within the Just Cuts support network. “So many of my local customers are surprised when they fnd out I own the salons, as you don’t need to be a hairdresser to own a Just Cuts,” he says.

Wesley Fernando’s journey exemplifes the spirit of NAIDOC Week—celebrating and elevating Indigenous excellence every day.

surrounded by the Australian way of life but still live in the strict Italian culture of her parents.

Her only way of escape is marriage and she sees her saviour in the form of Aldo, an older, single Italian man she meets at the wedding of a cousin.

He is charming and handsome and sweeps her off her feet. But is he the answer to all her problems? Or is he the beginning of a whole new suite of issues?

Anne Gallo has always had a passion for creative writing and although unable to study in her earlier life, went on to become a mature age university student while raising three children. Her life is now a balance between being a lawyer and mediator and delving into her imaginary world to write fction.

You can order your copy of Gabriella: La Vita Mia from www. shawlinepublishing.com.

au

Young Aussie Motorists Admit to Falsifying Learner Driver Logbook Entries

A recent survey reveals that almost half of Australian motorists aged 18 to 27 exaggerate the number of hours recorded in their learner driver’s logbook.

The Budget Direct Car Insurance Learner Driver Survey, which included 968 participants, found that nearly 40 percent of 18- to 27-year-olds admitted to falsifying their logbook entries. Additionally, 60 percent of all respondents reported obtaining their provisional licence without completing the required logbook

of supervised driving hours.

The survey highlighted signifcant differences in logbook tracking for manual versus automatic drivers. Manual licence holders were more likely to forge their logbooks, with males being the most frequent offenders.

New South Wales and Victoria lead the nation with 120 total hours required for learners, including 20 hours of night driving. Queensland and the ACT require 100 total hours and 10 night hours, while

the Northern Territory has no minimum requirements for total or night driving hours.

Over the past decade, there has been a noticeable shift towards automatic transmissions among young drivers. Despite this trend, those taking manual driving tests have consistently achieved higher pass rates than their automatic counterparts.

Additional data from the survey revealed that 23 percent of 18- to 27-year-olds failed to check their blind spots during their practical driving exam, and 9 percent admitted to not

using indicators. When considering improvements to the learner driver process, over 40 percent of respondents believed that recording mandatory logbook hours in different weather conditions would enhance safety. Other suggested improvements included offering refresher courses for non-professional supervisors, improving the quality of driving instructors, and increasing the minimum age and required logbook hours for learner drivers.

L-R- Wesley Fernando Jnr and his father Wesley Fernando.

*14km

*Carrying capacity estimated at 50 Cow and Calf units or their equivalents. Has previously at times stocked 100 Bullocks.

*Kikuyu, Paspalum and Couch based pastures.

*Infrastructure includes temporary dwelling with water and power connected, working set of timber stockyards, townwater fed troughs.

*Property is fully fenced and stock proof. Excellent bitumen road frontage to property entrance, all weather access road to stockyards.

*Picturesque river frontage provides for lifestyle pursuits such as camping, fishing and kayaking.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX MARKET REPORT WEEK ENDING JULY 10

The NRLX cattle sales saw a signifcant increase in activity with numbers nearly doubling to a yarding of 1360 head on Wednesday, July 10. The market was buoyed by strong competition, particularly for light well-bred steers.

Key Highlights:

• Yarding and Demand:

o Numbers almost doubled from the previous sale.

o Large penning of young cattle, mainly weaners, along with an increased offering of cows.

o Stronger competition was noted this week, with light well-bred steers attracting the keenest demand.

• Weaner Steers and Heifers:

o Restocker weaner steers sold

WARWICK

20c/kg dearer, ranging from 300c to 372c/kg.

o Restocker weaner heifers were 20c to 30c/ kg dearer, selling from 190c to 308c/kg.

• Yearling Steers:

o Restocker and background yearling steers sold from 250c to 336c/kg.

• Export Cattle:

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

o Grown steers sold from 270c to 300c/kg, 10c/kg dearer than the previous week.

o Grown heifers reached a top price of 288c/kg.

• Cows:

o The mixed yarding of cows sold

head).

MC DOUGALL & SONS LIVESTOCK MARKET REPORT FOR WARWICK & DISTRICT - WEEK ENDING 12/07/2024

Despite slight rain affecting numbers, the livestock markets showed a slight increase across most categories. Cattle numbers were up, while sheep and lamb numbers were down. Pork and poultry maintained steady numbers. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the market performance: Cattle Market

• Vealer Steers: Averaged 341.8c/kg, topping at 426.2c/kg or $777.05 to $1047.25.

• Vealer Heifers: Averaged 251.1c/kg, topping at 321.2c/kg or $563.73 to $1124.20.

• Feeder Steers: Averaged 303.7c/kg, topping at 340.2c/kg or $1095.73 to $1483.50.

• Feeder Heifers: Averaged 231.7c/kg, topping at 338.2c/kg or $749.33 to $1089.62.

• Yearling Steers: Averaged 326c/kg, topping at 368.2c/kg or $873.99 to $1605.92.

• Yearling Heifers: Averaged 252.9c/kg, topping at 316.2c/kg or $617.98 to $1660.05.

• Steers: Averaged 289.4c/kg, topping at 298.2c/kg or $1907.36 to $2097.34.

• Heifers: Averaged 270.4c/kg, topping at 318.2c/kg or $1269.90 to $1931.42.

• Cows: Averaged 232.1c/kg, topping at 275c/kg or $1219.60 to $1949.22.

• Bulls: Averaged 253c/kg, topping at 320.2c/kg or $1423.81 to $2741.34.

Sheep & Lamb Market

• Lambs: Topped at $218, averaging $149.28 (up $21/

frm to 10c dearer.

o 2 score medium weight cows sold from 196c to 222c/kg.

o 3 score medium weight cows averaged 225c/kg.

o 4 score cows ranged from 230c to 259c/kg.

• Bulls:

o The best of the heavy bulls sold to 238c/kg. The surge in numbers and the increased demand for light well-bred steers highlight the robust interest from restockers and backgrounders. The market trends indicate a positive outlook for the coming weeks, with competitive bidding likely to sustain prices across various categories.

• Hoggets: Topped at $146, averaging $101.69 (up $42/head).

• Ewes: Topped at $120, averaging $80.70 (down $3/ head).

• Wethers: Topped at $112, averaging $104.79 (up $5/ head).

• Rams: Topped at $84, averaging $74.05 (up $26/ head).

• Lamb Rams: Topped at $120, averaging $96.37 (down $6/head).

Overall, the sale average was $125.78, an increase of $22/ head week on week. Pig and Poultry Market

• Boars: Sold up to $152.

• Sows: Sold from $255 to $350.

• Baconers: Sold up to $80.

• Pork: Sold from $70 to $98.

• Stores: Sold from $52 to $141.

• Roosters: Sold up to $15.

• Hens: Sold up to $20.

• Pullets: Sold up to $30.

• Ducks: Sold up to $25.

• Hen & Chicks: Sold up to $60.

MCDOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

A total of 1,104 head were delivered to the local sale, less than half of last week’s yarding due to slight rain. The market remained frm to slightly dearer for all descriptions, with only light mutton being cheaper.

• Tom & Tracie Cooper: Sold Dorset lambs (57.5kg) for $216 to Take IT Easy Meats.

• Greenup Maryland P/S: Sold Dorset lambs (58.33kg) for $210 to Leslie Lamb, rams for $74 to restockers.

• Vermont Past Co: Sold Dorset lambs (50.1kg) for $160 to GR Prime, shorn (50kg) for $150 to GR Prime.

• Gradenfoe Past Co: Sold Dorset lambs (52.5kg) for $164 to GR Prime.

• Ennismore Farming Co: Sold Dorset lambs (52.5kg) for $168 to Warwick Meats.

• Marty & Margie Kerlin: Sold Suffolk lambs (56.25kg) for $190 to Take IT Easy Meats, hoggets (56.25kg) for $141 to Take IT Easy Meats.

• Hurley & Weiss: Sold Dorper lambs (60kg) for $200 to Take IT Easy Meats.

• Sunnymount Farming: Sold Dorper lambs (54kg) for $172 to Leslie Lamb, hoggets (53kg) for $146 to Nutrien Twba, 4-tooth wether (53kg) for $112 to Nutrien Twba.

• Greg & Clancy McGahan: Sold Dorper lambs (47.2kg) for $168 to GR Prime.

• JCD Rural: Sold Dorper lambs (52.5kg) for $172 to Leslie Lamb, (47.5kg) for $170 to Jock Young Meats, hoggets (57.5kg) for $144 to Nutrien Twba.

• Warwick Ryan: Sold Aussie White lambs (34.5kg and 29.5kg) for $87 and $73 to restockers, hoggets (40kg) for $88 to Take IT Easy Meats.

• Rory & Kathy Frost: Sold Dorper/Charolais x lambs (45.7kg) for $179 to Leslie Lamb.

• Dalmeny Farms: Sold Dorper x ewes for $88 to Thomas Foods, $88 and $50 to Eversons, $70 and $65 to restockers.

Overview

The Warwick & District livestock market saw an overall positive trend with slight increases across most categories, driven by higher cattle and lamb prices, while poultry and pork held steady. The upcoming weeks will be critical in observing if this trend continues.

27TH OF JULY 2024 - 11AM AT THE NRLX LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE - FEATURE -

About the Casino All Breeds Bull and Female Sale

Quality is the primary

The Casino All Breeds Bull & Female Sale is the Premier Bull sale in the Northern Rivers area of New South Wales. The inaugural sale happened in 1999 and has been conducted yearly since in response to both vendor & buyer demands for a high quality Bull & Female sale that catered for “ALL BREEDS”.

The Sale Committee is made up of vendors and is proudly supported by a large number of vendors covering an array of Breeds, and all the Casino Livestock Auctioneers.

QUALITY is what this sale is all about. All vendors are Registered Stud Cattle Breeders and all sale entries have a full Pedigree tree. Our major quality assurance initiative is our unique

and fair independent inspection system.

This process means 3 competent cattle people are nominated each year to view and assess all entries on offer. This system ensures that the standard of the animals remain of the highest order. The quality of the cattle on offer is the primary reason that the sale has been repeatedly so well supported by the most astute cattle breeders, who often source excellent bulls from several vendors across several breeds, and are able to do so, all at the one sale.

The Casino All Breeds Sale is held on the last Saturday of July each year and having withstood the test of time, this event has embedded itself as the region’s major bull sale

and is well recognised by all large and smaller scale graziers as a ‘must attend’ event.

This is an ALL BREED – MULTI VENDOR Sale that ensures a wide variety of Breeds and Genetics are on offer to meet the needs of the regions and beyond cattle breeders. It hasn’t been uncommon to see up to 14 Breeds on offer in the one sale, with entries regularly exceeding 150+ Bulls & Females, so be assured there are a large number of high quality cattle on offer. This sale will be at the Casino saleyards in July 2024.

All Breed multi-vendor yearly sale at Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) [Casino Saleyards].

Photo from the Casino All Breeds Website.

WELCOME TO THE 2024 CASINO ALL BREEDS BULL & FEMALES SALE

A message from the committee President, Bruce Lyle.

Casino All Breeds Sale committee president Bruce Lyle. Bruce says it’s the top quality locally bred bulls year after year, that’s got the Sale to where it is today & 2024 has a superb line-up.

This year’s sale bulls would have to be the toughest and fttest bulls ever offered!

The Northern Rivers region experienced the wettest food year on record in 2022 when these bulls were born, and 2023 was one of the driest on record, many in “intense drought”, certainly in what can only be described as very trying times indeed for all producers. Many farms were fooded and badly fooded. The bulls you see on sale are true survivors and able to

be offered for sale is a credit to the vendors and testament to the resilience of their cattle.

The current warm start to the winter season has kept conditions quite favourable across the region and the Bull Sale vendors are commenting that their bulls are continuing to do very well, this will certainly be refected in the quality and presentation of the offering at the Casino All Breeds Bull and Female Sale on Saturday July 27, committee president Bruce Lyle said. This sale is the perfect opportunity to top up your genetics. These are the bulls whose progeny will be marketed well into the future and return more proft for the producer.” Bulls are

a long-term investment and it’s critical not to drop the ball on sourcing good quality local genetics” A wise weaner producer from my early breeding days told me many times that “you can’t control the weather or many other factors that affect proft – but the one thing you can control is the quality of the bulls you buy” Bruce said.

“Even with a testy cattle market, the high-quality well-bred cattle are the ones continually attracting the premium prices that can only come from sourcing top quality, locally bred bulls that are adapted to the area.” There will certainly be excellent opportunities to buy well at this year’s sale,

and with all analysts commenting on a very much rising cattle market, now is the time to review your bulls.

This year will see a terrifc draft of 165 stud and herd bulls on offer, and 18 stud females, principally supplied by local breeders. Covering many breeds, it really is a “1 stop shop” offering a great opportunity to secure quality bulls across many breeds at the one venue. All vendors are registered stud cattle breeders and the bulls have a full parentage pedigree tree. “The quality and doing ability of the cattle on offer is the primary reason the sale has always been repeatedly supported by the most astute breeders

from up & down the coast, the Tablelands and into Queensland” Bruce said.

The importance of Coastal producers to purchase locally coastal bred bulls has never been more important, as the deaths from “Theileria” on introduced cattle to the coastal area continues to increase. Bruce recommended everyone to do their own homework on this disease, discuss with your vet or the North Coast Local Lands service staff and arm yourself with the info on this deadly disease, to protect your new bulls.

The 2024 order of sale will be the Bos Indicus bulls, European Breed bulls followed by the

British Breed Bulls. The 18 Stud Females will be offered at the completion of the Bull offering.

Online catalogue with Bull pictures and information can be found online at the sale website – www. casinoallbreeds.com.au Printed catalogues are available from all the Casino agents, noting it’s an 11am start, so be early, he warned.

Bruce Lyle

Online Catalouge

Our adventure into the world of breeding Charolais cattle commenced in 1971 with a small A.I. programme involving breeding Charolais bulls to Shorthorn and Angus females. Encouraged by the resulting progeny, we decided to register a stud in 1974. The stud was named Bentley Downs after the district where we purchased our new property. In the stud’s infancy females were purchased from Myocum stud (near Byron Bay) and a bull from Mount Pleasant Station, Tenterfeld. Throughout the nineteen seventies and early eighties the stud was small in numbers, however great success was achieved in Prime Cattle Shows (then known as “Fat Cattle Shows”). Our two sons,

BENTLEY DOWNS CHAROLAIS

Celebrating 50 years of breeding Charolais.

in 2005 we would be still showing, what we

consider, the ultimate

Beef Breed. Early success and enthusiasm of our entire family for the Breed, lead us to

in terms of numbers and quality.

We decided on Charolais as the breed

develop our stud both

for us, due to their

outstanding growth rate and excellent muscling. The type of Charolais bred at “Bentley Downs” has constantly changed to meet industry needs and the North Coast of NSW’s environment, however we have always stayed true to the characteristics that frst lead us to the Charolais breed. We believe the ideal cattle our country are early maturing cattle, with the ability to fnish off both grass and grain. Our bulls have been used by cattlemen to produce vealers and calves for the local weaner sale with excellent results. We constantly endeavoured to improve the quality of herd through the use of A.I. and the introduction of quality herd sires from leading studs. Our involvement with the (Continues next page)

AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY & LIVESTOCK CASINO/KYOGLE

Australian Property & Livestock Casino/Kyogle is a locally, family owned business established with a vision to be an elite Stock & Station agency that offers a personal and honest approach to delivering our clients with the

best result. With an enthusiastic young team, supported by a fast-growing broader network, we pride ourselves on offering a professional and reliable service tailored to accommodate our clients requests and achieve optimal outcomes. With two offce locations, our friendly team are able to service Casino, Kyogle and the Northern Rivers with any of your livestock, real estate or property management needs.

Black Thor Angus

Ritchie and Rod also achieved success by exhibiting in the Rural Youth section of these shows.

In 1983 we entered the show ring, not knowing that

Rod with Grand Champion Led Steer at the 1995 Casino Beef Week with David Bondfeld

Rod with Supreme All Breeds Bull “ Bentley Downs JR” at Brisbane Royal - 1990

Helen with Supreme

Breeds

“2Up Super Tramp” at the

Murwillumbah Show

Bentley Downs showteam - 1983 Rod and Ritchie with father Allan and Grandfather John

Charolais breed has been a big part of our life for the past thirty years and will be for many more years.

Over the years our stud has achieved great success in Led Steer, Prime Stock, Junior Heifer and Stud Cattle Shows. Some notable events for the Stud are:

1981

• Grand Champion Exhibit with a Charolais Cross Steer at the Annual Fat Cattle Show in Casino, incorporating the frst Casino Beef Week.

1983

• Began showing our Charolais around the Agriculture Shows on the North Coast.

• Our frst big win was at the 1983 Bangalow Show with our cow “Ki Hi Bridget”. Bridget won Supreme Exhibit.

• We were named N.S.W. Charolais

BENTLEY DOWNS CHAROLAIS

Promoters of the year.

1984

• Our son Ritchie was named the frst King Gee Junior Promoter of the year.

1985

• The Stud hosted a King Gee Field Day on “Bentley Downs”.

• We were named King

Celebrating 50 years of breeding Charolais.

Gee Promoters of the year.

1990

• Part of the winning Champion of Champions team at Brisbane Royal with our Junior Bull “Bentley Downs J.R.”.

1991

• Selling the top priced bull at the “Top Line

Sale”, Royal Easter Show. “Bentley Downs J.R.” Selling for $8,000.

1995

• “Bentley Downs Natalie” was named “The Land Cow of the Year” on the North Coast of N.S.W. Show Circuit.

• Reserve Senior

Champion Female at Brisbane Royal with “Bentley Downs Natalie”.

• Winning the Champion Led Steer at the Annual Casino Beef Week.

1996

• Supreme Champion Carcass at the North

Coast National Led Steer competition.

• Our son Rod won the Junior Judging State Finale at Sydney Royal.

1998

• Helen was made an Honorary Life Member of the Charolais Society.

1999

• Winning Supreme Exhibit at Murwillumbah Show and being presented with the award from Country and Western singer Slim Dusty.

2002

• Our Grandsons Mitchell and Lachlan entered the Showring, this making fve generations of Trustum’s who have showed cattle at the Show beginning in 1920.

2005

• An award given at the Sydney Royal honouring our Stud who has been operating for over thirty years.

BENTLEY DOWNS CHAROLAIS

Bentley Downs Charolais

AVALON SANTA GERTRUDIS STUD

Avalon was founded in 1967 and registered #681 in 1970 after the purchase of a cow in calf by brothers Ian and Geoffrey Clark.

4 years later, it is still operating on the banks of the Richmond River on the outskirts of Casino NSW.

We pride ourselves in producing quality cattle, which have the breed standard temperament, structure and colour.

We proudly offer for consideration 2 females PTIC in calf which have been hand picked and ftted for this sale.

If you have any enquires please contact: Ian - Owner 0417069325

Above are 2 females we are selling lot 166 and 167 both are pt 7 to 8 incalf to Woodleigh Unit purchased at their online sale last year for the top price bull.

CLAY GULLY & BIARRA VALLEY SIMMENTALS

Clay Gully & Biarra Valley Simmentals operated by Rob & Viv alongside Gareth, Emily & Matilda Laycock will offer 9 top class heifers at this years Casino All Breeds Sale.

7Traditional and 2 black Simmental heifers. These heifers are from the heart of our herd which have been selling bulls across QLD and northern NSW for close to 50 years. The heifers on offer are soft, feminine and have excellent temperaments. The traditional heifers have been running with

Clay Gully Trillion (P) and Black heifers with Wormbete Tribal (PP).

More information can be found at www. claygully.com

JULY 18, 2024

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

Esteemed musician and founder of the renowned Nimbin Roots Festival, Lou Bradley, is bringing an exciting musical venture to the heart of Mullumbimby. The inaugural Mullum Roots Festival is scheduled to take place in July 2025, promising a vibrant celebration of music, community, and sustainability.

Following the discontinuation of the beloved Mullumbimby Music Festival in 2020, Lou saw an opportunity to fll the void and revive the town’s rich musical tradition. “The absence of the Mullumbimby Music Festival has been deeply felt within

our community,” says Lou. “We aim to create a sister festival to the Nimbin Roots Festival, injecting new life into Mullumbimby’s cultural landscape.”

Lou, and her husband Phil, both share deep roots in Mullumbimby, and she is determined to collaborate closely with the local community to ensure the festival’s success. Having nurtured their own musical careers while raising their family in the hills of Mullum, the couple are passionate about rejuvenating their hometown with the power of music.

Drawing from her extensive experience as a songwriter and

performer, including being an ARIA fnalist, as well as her nine-year tenure leading the Nimbin Roots Festival, Lou is well-equipped to orchestrate a successful event in Mullumbimby.

Joining her is seasoned music industry veteran Jon O’Rourke, bringing over three decades of expertise as a record label owner, manager, and producer.

“We understand the intricacies of curating a memorable festival experience,” explains Jon. “Our goal is to deliver a world-class event while upholding principles of sustainability and accessibility.”

World famous artist, Reg Mombasa, who is also a band member of Dog Trumpet, loved performing at last year’s Nimbin Festival so much that he created the artwork for this year’s event and has also designed the artwork for the Mullum Roots Festival.

To unveil the Mullum Roots Festival concept, a special concert featuring Robert Forster, (The Go Betweens), will take place on August 4th at the Mullumbimby ExServices Club, starting at 7pm.

For info and tickets go to www. mullumrootsfest.com

TIME FOR TRIVIA

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.

1 The ancient Roman city of Pompeii is most closely associated with which of the following modern-day cities?

(a) Venice (b) Florence (c) Naples (d) Rome

2 Which two people had a hit with the song, I Don’t Care, in 2019?

(a) Billie Eilish / Ed Sheeran (b) Ed Sheeran / Justin Bieber (c) Ariana Grande / Justin Bieber (d) Justin Bieber / Billie Eilish

3 The mellophone belongs to which family of musical instruments?

(a) String (b) Woodwind (c) Percussion (d) Brass

4 Nicaragua is bordered by which country to the south?

(a) Guatemala (b) Belize (c) Costa Rica (d) Panama

5 Which author wrote the novel, For Us, The Living: A Comedy of Customs, published posthumously in 2003?

(a) Sylvia Plath (b) Ernest Hemingway (c) Anthony Burgess (d) Robert Heinlein

6 At which summer Olympic Games was Sports Climbing introduced?

(a) Beijing, 2008 (b) London, 2012 (c) Rio de Janeiro, 2016 (d) Tokyo, 2020

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 CONTERMINOUS

(a) Meeting along a common boundary

(b) Living at the same time (c) Dependent on something else

2 EMULATIVE

(a) Without effect

(b) Inclined to rivalry

(c) Making possible

3 HEBETATE

(a) To dull or blunt

(b) To play the bully

(c) To settle in

4 PRECATORY

(a) Going before in time

(b) Expressing a wish or entreaty

(c) Living by prey

5 RAPPORT

(a) Plundering

(b) Ecstasy

(c) Emotional bond

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

SISTER

BONIFACE MYSTERIES

ABC TV, 7.30pm

It’s hard to imagine there’s much in the way of fun and games to be found in a town called Great Slaughter, but this light-hearted Father Brown spin-o about the fearless, Vespa-driving Catholic nun with a passion for forensic science manages to make crime-solving a hoot. Tonight, it’s classic farce as detective Sam (Max Brown) and reporter Ruth (Miranda Raison) are forced to pose as husband and wife to go undercover at a spiritual couples retreat run by the widow (Emily Bruni) of missing nobleman Baron Battenberg. But when a journalist also investigating the disappearance turns up dead and Sister Boniface (Lorna Watson, pictured) is taken out of action, their ruse becomes all too real.

FRIDAY, July 19

TV (2) SBS (3)

SUNDAY

DANCING WITH THE STARS

SEVEN, 7pm

Forget extreme sports or surviving in sub-zero wilderness: this dancing is tough stu … and let’s not even get started on the uncomfortable shoes and body-hugging, bedazzled costumes. Whether it’s classic ballroom, the rhumba or a sultry amenco dance, the celebrities are aiming to impress no matter how footed they may be. This 21st season of the sweat-packed competition boasts faces including inaugural MasterChef Australia Goodwin (pictured), Gold Logiewinner Lisa McCune, and Gardens and Olympian Nova Peris. Veteran host Sonia Kruger also has a former vet Chris Brown as her new sidekick. In tonight’s escapade, the looms after a dreaded danceo . Tune in to nd out who is (and isn’t) blessed with rhythm.

MONDAY

ROBSON GREEN’S WEEKEND ESCAPES

SBS, 7.30pm

Celebrities on leisurely road trips and strolls with well-known faces: it’s a hot new genre. From the homegrown Great Australian with Julia Zemiro to British comedian Bill Bailey in Perfect Pub and actor Martin Clunes’ storied foray in Britain , slow-moving, thoughtful travel shows are laying serious track marks on the “roads less travelled”. Here, Robson Green (pictured) is back with season two of his chat-infused trek through British scenery. With a special guest accompanying him on each episode (later episodes feature wine expert Olly Smith and Shakespeare and Hathaway’s Mark Benton), this 15-part instalment begins tonight Lewis’s Kevin Whately and actress Angela Lonsdale.

(R)

9.00

That Paci

Antiques Roadshow.

1.00 Troppo. (Malv,

Antiques Roadshow.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Love Your Garden. Presented by Alan Titchmarsh.

8.20 Troppo. (Malv) Amanda nds herself in danger.

9.15 Gruen. (Final, R) Presented by Wil Anderson.

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

10.20 Austin. (PG, R) Julian is red from his publisher.

10.50 ABC Late News.

11.05 Grand Designs. (PG, R)

11.55 Martin Clunes: Islands Of Australia. (PG, R)

12.45 We Hunt Together. (Malv, R)

1.25 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Mastermind Australia. The four semi- nal winners are back to see who will be crowned Australia’s newest Mastermind.

8.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 19. Embrun to Isola 2000. 144.6km mountain stage. From France.

1.15 Blackout: Tomorrow Is Too Late. (Mlv, R)

3.00 Focus On Ability Film Festival. (PG, R)

4.10 Peer To Peer. (R)

4.35 Bamay. (R)

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

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Takes a look at Fortitude Valley.

8.30 MOVIE: Enemy Of The State. (1998, Mlv, R) A lawyer becomes the target of a corrupt government agent after he gains possession of a valuable videotape. It appears the only chance he has to regain his former life lies with an ex-intelligence operative. Will Smith, Gene Hackman, Jon Voight.

11.15 To Be Advised.

12.55 Boy To Man: The Swamp Cowboys. (PGa, R) Tim Noonan heads to Venezuela.

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up. 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. 8.30 Billy Connolly: Great American Trail. 9.25 Sex Before The Internet. (Final) 10.20 The Lesbian Guide To Straight Sex. 11.15 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Medical Emergency. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Harry’s Practice. 9.30 Auction Squad. 11.30 Medical Emergency. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 House Of Wellness. 2.00 Discover. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 Our Town. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Mighty Ships. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 20. Canberra Raiders v New Zealand Warriors.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Canberra Raiders versus New Zealand Warriors match, with NRL news and analysis.

10.40 MOVIE: In The Heart Of The Sea. (2015, Mav, R) A ship is attacked by a mammoth whale. Chris Hemsworth, Cillian Murphy.

1.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

2.00 Pointless. (PG, R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Postcards. (PG, R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

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

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

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

8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Malv, R) Guests include Kevin Hart, Jodie Comer, So a Vergara and Alan Cumming. 9.30 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a look at the week that was. 10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.55 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

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

7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Strange Chores. 8.00 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Operation Ouch! 9.05 O cially Amazing. 9.35 Dragon Ball Super. 10.00 Supernatural Academy. 10.20 The PM’s Daughter. 10.45 Phoenix Rise. 11.45 Good Game Spawn Point. 12.25am Rage. 1.25 TMNT. 2.15 The Legend Of Korra. 2.35 Shasha And Milo. 3.00 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Ben Fogle: Starting Up Starting Over. 1.00 Young Sheldon. 1.30 Bewitched. 2.00 Full House. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld.

9GO! (83) 6am Cutthroat Island. Continued. (1995, PG) 7.15 The Mole Agent. (2020, Spanish) 8.50 Menashe. (2017, PG, Yiddish) 10.25 The Talented Mr Ripley. (1999, M) 12.55pm I Love My Dad. (2022, M) 2.45 The Movie Show. 3.15 The Grey Fox. (1982, PG) 4.55 Mr Holland’s Opus. (1995, PG) 7.30 The Client. (1994, M) 9.45 The Firm. (1993, MA15+) 12.30am The Cannibal Club. (2018, MA15+, Italian) 2.00 Farming. (2018, MA15+) 4.00 Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery. (1997, M) 5.40 Hamlet. (1948, PG)

PEACH (52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Children’s

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

O O S

R F E

S R P

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

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Auspac Media

The week starts with a Mars/Uranus spark that will rev you up in a positive, proactive way. So it’s the perfect time to explore and experiment in exciting new directions. Then the week ends with a Mars/Neptune link that encourages creative projects and spiritual pursuits. So it’s the ideal time to paint and pray, play music and meditate, sing and chant, practice yoga and dance up a storm. Sunday’s Full Moon pushes you to follow your professional dreams.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Bulls love to feel stable and comfy, and sudden changes can catapult you into a state of catatonia. This week the planetary patterns shake up your comfort zone – especially involving a planned trip, personal project or educational matter. Uranus urges you to banish boredom and take a smart calculated risk, as you stir things up via a brand-new goal or a local community connection. Sunday’s Full Moon also encourages you to be bold and adventurous.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

The Full Moon shines a spotlight on money, business, investments, taxes and joint finances, so make sure they are all in working order. And the Sun makes a fabulous aspect with Uranus, so an innovative financial idea could really take flight. Mars and Jupiter are transiting through Gemini, so be proactive about maintaining your sense of humour! Be inspired by comedian (and birthday great) Robin Williams: “Laughter can be many things – sometimes a medicine.”

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Calling all Crabs … the Sun is transiting through your sign (until July 22) which boosts your creativity and your moodiness. There’s a Full Moon in your relationship zone on Sunday, so it’s time to look after loved ones and nurture your inner self via meditation, contemplation and relaxation. Your quote for the week is from actress Selena Gomez: “I’m such a Cancer. I feel everything so intensely, which is one of my favourite things about myself.”

The Capricorn Full Moon highlights your health zone, so it’s a good week to try a detox diet or a disciplined new exercise routine. Mercury and Venus are both vamping through your sign, which boosts your Cat charisma and playful sense of fun. So it’s also a wonderful week to turn up the charm and call in a few old favours. However, too much happy hilarity (and no action) will just annoy others (who are doing all the work). So try to walk your talk.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You’ll feel compelled to connect with your inner world or help someone in need, as the planets highlight your spiritual, humanitarian and friendship zones. With Mars and Jupiter jumping through your career zone, decisive and dynamic action is required at work. So don’t waste your numerous talents with unproductive daydreaming that goes nowhere. If you worry and procrastinate, then promising opportunities and important connections will pass you by.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Expect some tension as the Full Moon stirs up old grievances with a family member or a work colleague. If you sit back and let others make decisions, then you’ll just feel powerless. So strive to be more self-sufficient, as you use your natural diplomatic skills to help smooth troubled waters. Getting the ratio right between your public and private lives is an ongoing challenge. But if anyone can juggle complex commitments, it’s a well-balanced Libran!

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

It’s time for sensitive Scorpios to be clever, creative and communicative. But (courtesy of the Full Moon) it’s definitely not a good week to host a jolly neighbourhood reunion or bring up sensitive childhood issues with a sibling. The planets encourage you to let go of the past and stop worrying about the future. Focus on enjoying the here and now! Be inspired by music icon Carlos Santana (who was born on July 20): “The present is where everything begins.”

This week the shimmering Sun’s transiting through your dream zone, while Mars and Jupiter (your patron planet) are revving up your relationship zone. So dreams and partnerships are highlighted at the moment. It’s important to nurture and develop them – but don’t get the two confused! Iconic singer Linda Ronstadt (who turns 78 on Monday) reminds us, “The thing you have to be prepared for is that other people don’t always dream your dream.”

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

On the weekend the feisty Full Moon lights up your sign. So relationship dramas are likely –unless you can slip out of fussy Capricorn controlfreak mode and, instead, try the gentle art of compromise. Other people are acting as a mirror, reflecting negative personal traits that you may be unaware of. Use these experiences to work on your weaknesses – and build on your natural strengths. As always, calm cooperation is the key to interpersonal harmony.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Aquarians are free spirits. And you could go missing in action this week, as Uranus and the Full Moon boost your tendency to detach or run away from difficult situations. Heading for the hills or escaping into a private fantasy seems appealing, but the current problems will still be waiting when you return. So you need to get the balance right between dealing with daily challenges, when they occur, and retreating into your own quirky inner world.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

This week a fortuitous power surge could inspire fabulous creative ideas and spiritual insights. But do you feel dismally disorganised? Is a lack of a daily routine letting you down? If you confuse fact with fantasy, then you could end up with a complicated mess on your hands. So do your best to keep your feet on the ground! It’s time to tune into the strong energy of Sunday’s Full Moon in earthy Capricorn, as you try a more grounded and disciplined approach.

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

Mark your calendars for their biggest event on the Gold Coast to date. They’re upgrading to bigger and better things, so don’t miss their frst event at Gold Coast Sports Precinct!

Motor Culture

Australia takes pride in being Australia’s most diverse and rewarding

automotive community, with their Cars & Culture meets refecting this. Their events are familyfriendly focused and full of fun and interaction, providing like-minded people from across the region with a chance to connect with others who share the same passion for vehicles.

For Chris Emerson, professionally known as What So Not, this past year has been one of realisation and research, rethinking and renewal. Long before the pandemic hit, the Australian producer and DJ made the decision to scale down his touring signifcantly in 2020 to recentre himself as a person and refresh himself as an artist.

“I had to get out of the cycle of the touring artist life where you feel like you’re forever chasing your tail,” says a cleareyed and rejuvenated Emerson from Perth, Western Australia, where he has temporarily set up camp.

He continues, “As an artist, you have to be careful not to get caught up in your own machine and in your own world. You have to come down to ground level and see what’s actually up, what’s emerging, check in on some younger people doing interesting stuff and prop them up like you were propped up when you were in that position.”

It would have been very easy for Emerson to stay sequestered in What So Not’s signifcant accomplishments. He has surpassed one billion global streams, his song “Beautiful” featuring Winona Oak won Best Independent

Expect a fun-flled day packed with unique builds and excitement! Their last event boasted over $100 million worth of cars and hundreds of dollars in giveaway prizes.

This time around you can expect a diverse car meet (Super Cars, Custom Cars, JDM’s,

Classics, 4x4’s + Bikes and more), Motor Culture Australia’s Private Collection, Special Attendees, live music, merch sale + freebies at the MCA tent, free raffe and promotional giveaways with hundreds of dollars worth of prizes to be won and plenty of trade

Dance, Electronica or Club Single at the 2019 Australian Independent Record Awards, and Gold certifcations for his releases continue to accumulate.

Instead, Emerson spent a year living at a friend’s house on the beach in Newcastle Australia alongside a dozen or so creatives working in a cross-section of mediums from visuals to design to music. In this artist commune of sorts, without deadlines or commitments, Emerson explored new genres of music, new ways of creation, new production techniques, new sound designs, new equipment, all the while absorbing

stalls to cover all your needs, delicious coffee and food (free for MCA members) and more.

As always entry is free and everyone is welcome!

FACILITIES:

• Bar • Cafe

• Carpark

• Family Friendly

• Public Toilet

• Restaurant

• Shop / Gift Shop

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Sunday 21 July 9am-12pm

• Where: Gold Coast Sports Precinct

• Price: Free

recommendations from his fellow artists. From books and flms to live performances and interviews, Emerson went from being segregated in his What So Not world, to becoming completely immersed in artistic stimuli.

The frst outcome of Emerson’s refection and revitalisation is “The Change” featuring Australian indie rockers, the DMA’s. An invigorating stormer of a track, it has one foot in ‘90s Britpop and electronica, and one foot in the present time with skipping breakbeats and crafty production techniques.

“The Change” started as a collaboration between Emerson and the DMA’s Johnny Took, who corralled the rest of his bandmates with his enthusiasm for the song.

“We made it the day we met,” says Emerson. “Johnny comes from band world, but he loves Underworld & The Chemical Brothers and owns a lot of really cool synths. I come from highly technical sonic design and sound production. Individually we didn’t have the right attributes to get it there. Together, it was the perfect combination. We came together and made the song we always dreamed of making.”

“The Change” marks the start of the second decade of What So Not whose frst EP was released in 2011. In the last 10 years, Emerson has collaborated with Skrillex, RL Grime, Toto, Run the Jewels, Flux Pavilion, Noisia, Daniel Johns, San Holo and Jagwar Ma. He has performed in over 70 countries including all the major festivals across the globe. Additionally, he has headlined his own venue tours of North America and Australia in support of his critically- and commercially-acclaimed debut album, Not All The Beautiful Things. Now, with a new decade comes new innovations from ever-shifting Emerson.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: 19th of July @8pm

• Where: Beach Hotel, Byron Bay

• Price: $22.43

• Tickets: Via the QR code.

“41 YEARS DOING WHAT WE LOVE – BREEDING QUALITY ANGUS CATTLE”

Lyle Angus Cattle is a family owned operation located in the tough forest country South East of Casino, NSW.

After years of the family being totally committed to Hereford & cross bred cattle, Bruce set out in 1982 to develop and establish the Angus herd at “Jambrita” Alphadale until relocating to “Paisley Park” Casino in 1988, where we still call home today. The Lyle family has been breeding registered Angus cattle for over 40 years. The country we raise our cattle in is a tough short season environment and our cows are truly hard workers, being asked to rear calves in low fertility forest country is a big ask and we are constantly amazed by the Angus hardiness to breed and produce under these conditions, traditionally reserved for Brahman cross breeder herds. We have been

asked many times why we run our cattle on such tough country and the answer is simple, we love living and raising our family here ! The added bonus is our cattle leave here and can go anywhere and perform superbly, being bred and raised in the tough adds remarkable doing ability that our customers recognise, with many repeat customers placing our bulls out with British, Euro, Brahman & F1 cows in the toughest of situations successfully year after year. Born and pasture raised on our farm, grazing Ryegrass & Oats to prepare for sale. Our goals are very simple, focus on the cow. You can have all the numbers in the world, but if you don’t have a cow, that will go in calf, calve unassisted, thrive on grass, wean a

calf ½ her body weight, you don’t have much to work with. We aim to breed strong, heavily muscled, easy feshing bulls, that sire calves that will breed our customers steer calves with extra

Kilo’s and valuable replacement females, year after year. Selected use of high accuracy proven A.I. sires has been implemented to complement our cow families, along

with purchasing Stud sires from time to time that meet our high expectations. We also use select sires that are home bred, we fnd this the ultimate test in sampling the product we sell and are extremely pleased with how our cattle stack up. We have 20 herd improving Angus bulls on offer at the Casino All Breeds Bull Sale. Held on Saturday 27th of July and having withstood the test of time, this event has imbedded itself as the region’s major bull sale and is well recognised by all large and smaller scale graziers as a must attend event for quality. To Support our increasing Southern clients, we are offering 8 fantastic bulls at the Grafton Angus Sale on the 3rd August 2024. Additionally,

outside buyers who source our bulls year after year from this sale are very happy with the performance of our Bulls, year in and year out ! Heidi and I are very proud of this year’s bulls on offer, they have done very well following a diffcult food year in 2022 and then intense drought in 2023. The sale bulls have been grazing Oats and Ryegrass that has been very much on the wet side. All in all, they have done well, ft and ready to head out to work. Further pics and Info from our website www. lylefamilyangus.com.au and our facebook page “Lyle Family Angus”

If you would like to visit and see the bulls in the paddock, no problem, just give us a call!

25TH ANNUAL CASINO ALL BREEDS SALE RESULTS

Photo credit - Glennvale Black Simmentals

FFRANKLIN ANGUS

Franklin Angus is a family run Angus Stud located in the Orara Valley West of Coffs Harbour.

ranklin Angus have 5 Angus Bulls on offer at the Casino All Breeds Sale 27th July and 13 Bulls and 5 Females at the Grafton Angus Bull & Female Sale on the 3rd August. Our bulls are stacked with performance and are structurally correct, this comes from

selecting AI Sires backed by a strong Female herd. We are focused on fertility, sound feet, temperament and functional cattle where performance and feed effciency is a must. We aim to increase quality and productivity for our clients because we are all paid on

weight, as our bulls are known for there early maturity and explosive weight gain. Flushing embryos from our best cows and transferring them to our commercial herd. This has enabled us to produce bulls with world leading genetics and build a consistent and

productive female herd. We run our operation under commercial conditions using rotational grazing methods, our property is very coastal where the pasture is mainly kikuyu, then rye and oats in the winter. We bale our own silage to feed in winter, so our herd is completely

pasture raised. Franklin Angus Bulls have early growth are naturally muscled & square made, deep chested, strong topped, docile & packed in a moderate frame for doing ability. Were proud of the outstanding line of bulls on offer for 2024,

they are pasture raised, coastal born & bred to work in all environments. They also carry the Immune Ready badge so you can be assured they are all fully vaccinated.

Individual Lot pics and videos are on our Franklin Angus Facebook page.

3D Training Program for Dairy Exporters Launched

By Ian Rogers

The dairy industry now has access to an innovative training program designed to enhance exporter skills and knowledge. Developed in partnership with Dairy Australia and Charles Sturt University, the course titled “Culture: Growing Dairy Exports” aims to support and advance Australia’s dairy export sector.

Deputy Secretary for Trade, Tina Hutchison, highlighted the program’s benefts: “This free 5-module training course will upskill industry professionals and deepen their understanding of export regulatory requirements.”

The training emphasizes a holistic system approach, enhancing participants’ ability to establish internal monitoring and

verifcation systems to meet export dairy regulatory standards.

Users will engage with 3D animated scenarios that demonstrate the impacts of noncompliance, as well as the effectiveness of root-cause analysis and communication strategies.

Toolkits provided in the course assist in implementing the skills gained into various roles within a dairy

establishment. These toolkits offer guidance and practical tools to build and maintain company culture and quality assurance processes, underscoring the value of a proactive, systems-based approach for managing export regulatory requirements.

To access the training course, visit Dairy Training and Tools at https://www. dairyaustralia.com.au

Renewed Foreign Push for Australian Food and Fibre

By Ian Rogers

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has reaffrmed its dedication to expanding and diversifying overseas markets for Australia’s primary producers through a robust network of agricultural counsellors.

Deputy Secretary for Agricultural Trade and Regulation Tina Hutchison announced that DAFF will replenish nine counsellor positions in the coming year.

“Our counsellors are instrumental in maintaining Australia’s multi-billion-dollar ag

exports and are key to helping the sector meet the $100 billion farm gate production target by 2030,” Ms. Hutchison said.

For the past 25 years, these counsellors have been crucial in gaining and maintaining market access, supporting Australia’s international agricultural trade. They play a signifcant role in establishing trading arrangements, supporting trade agreement negotiations, and setting market entry provisions for Australian agricultural produce. The network is highly valued by agricultural industries and helps

resolve specifc import and export issues.

In 2022–23, Australian agricultural, fsheries, and forestry exports reached a record $80 billion, with grains, oilseeds, and pulses being the fastest-growing segment, increasing 11% annually in real value terms since 2003–04.

The nine positions to be flled include current vacancies in Japan, Malaysia, and the United Kingdom, as well as six expected replacements as current counsellors complete their deployments.

The network currently consists of 19 offcers posted in strategic

locations such as Brussels, Bangkok, Beijing, Santiago, New Delhi, Jakarta, Rome, Tokyo, Mexico City, Seoul, Riyadh, Dubai, Washington DC, and Hanoi. Postings typically last 3-4 years to maximize opportunities for Australian agriculture in these markets.

Each counsellor location also employs locally engaged staff to provide essential support through language services, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge of local customs and etiquette.

AusTreat Enhances Stink Beetle Controls to Protect Australia’s Biosecurity

By Ian Rogers

Fisheries and Forestry.

The department is launching AusTreat, a pre-border biosecurity scheme designed to ensure that overseas treatment providers

effectively target and eliminate the right pests with the required treatments.

Deputy Secretary of Biosecurity and Compliance Justine Saunders stated that AusTreat aims to create a more effcient, future-ready biosecurity system to protect Australia from hitchhiker pests like the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB).

“By redirecting resources to higher-risk pathways, we can streamline border clearances for industry and consumers,” Ms. Saunders explained. “If the department has more confdence in treatments conducted on goods before they arrive in Australia, it reduces the need for manual intervention at

our borders.”

AusTreat, a government-to-industry initiative, will replace the existing Offshore BMSB Treatment Provider program and set the conditions for regulating pre-border biosecurity treatment providers.

“BMSB threatens our agricultural industries and way of life,” Ms. Saunders said. “It feeds on more than 300 agricultural and ornamental plant species, including fruit and vegetable crops. It is also a domestic nuisance, known to hide in houses in large numbers, exuding its signature stench through our living spaces.”

AusTreat is designed to respond quickly to emerging biosecurity pests, with the

potential to expand and incorporate other existing schemes and future measures against biosecurity risks.

This fexibility allows Australia to adapt to changing risks over time and increase oversight of treatment providers in other countries.

“AusTreat isn’t just good for Australia; it will also help improve best practices for industry both here and overseas,” Ms. Saunders noted.

For more information about hitchhiker pests and AusTreat, visit the AusTreat webpage. https://www.agriculture. gov.au/biosecuritytrade/import/before/ prepare/treatmentoutside-australia/ AusTreat

Pests estimated to cost Australia tens of billions over the coming decades will

face increased barriers to entry, thanks to new measures announced by the Department of Agriculture,

Latest Data on Crop Loss and Waste Refects Australian Resilience and Innovation

By Rob Heyward

Australian food producers are adopting innovative strategies to minimize crop losses and fnd alternative uses for waste, according to a new report titled “Crop Loss/Waste on Australian Horticulture Farms, 2022–23,” released today. Commissioned by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water, the report addresses specifc data gaps in food loss and waste within the horticulture industry.

Insights from ABARES

Dr. Jared Greenville, Executive Director of the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES), highlighted that despite ongoing challenges, Australian horticulture is set to achieve record production values in 2024–25. “While the diffculties of horticultural production remain, the latest data offers a fascinating snapshot of how our producers are leveraging technology, innovative thinking, and hard work to enhance productivity,”

Dr. Greenville remarked.

Key Findings

The report reveals signifcant progress in the recovery and repurposing of crop loss/ waste:

• Recovery for Alternative Uses:

In 2022–23, 10% of horticultural crop loss/ waste per farm was repurposed for uses such as compost and animal feed, a notable increase from 2% in 2021–22. Apples, bananas, and citrus led this trend, with around 20% of crop loss/ waste per farm being recovered for alternative uses.

• Primary Causes of

Loss: Weather events were identifed as the primary cause of total crop loss/waste on most farms, accounting for 63% of losses. These losses predominantly occurred pre-harvest and were largely beyond farmers’ control.

Addressing Challenges

Dr. Greenville emphasized the inherent risks of agricultural production and the impact of external events. “Agricultural production is inherently risky, and external events outside the control of farm managers are a natural challenge within

Australian agriculture,” he said. However, the report provides valuable insights that can inform strategies to reduce waste and increase resource effciency across the value chain.

Future Directions

The fndings underscore the resilience and innovative spirit of Australian horticulture producers, highlighting their ability to adapt and fnd sustainable solutions. The knowledge gained from this report is expected to guide future efforts in reducing waste and enhancing productivity

within the industry. For more detailed information, the full report can be accessed here. https://www. agriculture.gov.au/ abares/research-topics/ surveys/horticulturecrop-loss-22-23

This new data not only showcases the adaptability of Australian farmers but also serves as a roadmap for future strategies aimed at maximizing effciency and sustainability in horticultural production.

Bagotville is a rural district with a scattering of houses around. The name derived from Christopher Bagot and his family, who settled this spot around 1882 when they moved from Ben Lomond in the Northern Tablelands, in the New England region. They frst built a sawmill but sadly it burnt down in 1884.

In 1969 the Public Works Department began developing a physical model of the river and food plain from Wyrallah and Tatham to Wardell and including parts of Sandy Creek and Bungawalbyn Creek.

The proposed Tuckean Swamp Diverson Channel would divert foodwater from the Wisons River between Delelvin and Baxters Lanes.

Not a lot is known

about Bagotville Ferry, but we do know this ferry crossing was a wonderful service, whether you had to cross it to go to school, move cattle in time of food or just use it to go to Ballina etc.

Ferry Driver, Jim McGillgott was there driving the ferry for years. A metal bowl which was used in the dairy for separating the milk, was tied up in a tree on the ferry approach.

People who wanted to travel over the ferry would hit the bowl with a hammer to alert the ferry driver if the ferry was on the other side.

The ferry was controlled by Tintenbar Shire Council and drivers were contracted by them. The frst ferry at Bagotville was a hand ferry where you had to physically wind the ferry across the river.

Someone that knows

By Helen Trustum

the Bagotville Ferry very well was Les and Hazel Giggins’s daughter Beth. Each day Beth would walk two miles to the Bagotville Ferry from their Dungarubba farm where she would cross the ferry to attend school at Bagotville Public School.

Bagotville Public School was frst established as a Provisional School in 1913. Within a year of opening the school was upgraded to a Public School. In 1914 a new building was erected. In 1929 the school closed due to falling enrollments, then re-opened in 1931 as numbers increased again. The school fell on hard times in 1937 when the school burnt down. The children were taught in a nearby barn, while a new school was built. A new school re-opened in 1939.

Ferryman, Sandy McCloud built a slab hut near the ferry and that’s where he lived when he was driving the ferry. At frst there was a lot of controversy, as half the hut was built on the road and the other half in the 25acre reserve. This reserve was used for food time when cattle needed high ground.

Prior to the construction of the bridges, several vehicular ferries operated in the Tintenbar Shire to enable river and creek crossings. Namely across North Creek to Shaws Bay, Richmond at Wardell, and Burns Point at Ballina.

Ferry services were important to the growing effciency of local communities in the closing decades of the ninetieth century, when ferry crossings emerged. Relics of the original operated Bagotville Ferry

are still in position on the Back Channel Road.

The Bagotville Ferry was sunk when there was no use for it near the approaches to stop erosion and can be still spotted at low tide.

The Bagotville Barrage was built in 1971 to prevent saltwater intruding on farmland beyond while enabling fresh water to escape into the Broadwater in times of food.

Memories:

Trevor Monti: I was reared at Bagotville where my parents had a dairy farm. I can remember a little hut that was built near the ferry approach where Les and Elsie Watts lived. Les was the ferryman at Bagotville for years. He left Bagotville after many years of service on the ferry and moved to Woodburn. Jim

McGillgott took over the service. Trevor, now 86 years of age, lives at Empire Vale. Bert Plenkovich: I always remember the time when I was working on a property at Back Channel. The ferryman was Jim McGillott. He would ask me what time I would be coming home as he would leave the ferry on the Bagotville side ready for me to wind across. Jim would row himself back home well before I was due to come home.

Ferrydrivers: Sandy McCloud, Les Watts, Jim McGillott, Charlie Robson.

Ref: Gary Woolley from Dungarubba, Beth Commin from Wardell, Trevor Monti from Empire Vale, Bert Plenkovich from Broadwater.

Beth Giggin’s outside Bagotville Public School.

Photo courtesy Beth Comin.

Bagotville Ferry - courtesy Beth Comin

Bagotville Ferry - 1965

Bagotville Ferry - courtesy Ray Hunt, Tuckurimba Plaque beside Bagotville Barrage - both photos courtesy Beth Comin, Wardell.

Bagotville Barrage

NFF backs petition for improved train lighting to save lives

The National Farmers’ Federation has thrown its support behind a petition to improve train lighting to save lives on regional roads.

The petition asks the Australian Parliament to implement legislation requiring mandatory rotating beacon lights on the front and sides of trains and rolling stock.

National Farmers’ Federation President

David Jochinke said the NFF strongly supported the families who had advocated for decades for better train illumination after they lost loved ones.

The Improve Train Lighting and Level Crossing Safety Group comprises 12 rural families, and is led by Lara Jensen whose brother was killed in a triple fatality at an

unlit crossing in 2000 in Western Australia. A coronial inquest into the crash found no one in the vehicle had seen the train due to inadequate train lighting and no warning signs on the approach to the crossing.

“These families have been through hell, but they don’t want sympathy, they want action,” Mr Jochinke said.

“Increased train lighting is a simple and sensible solution that will save lives on regional roads.”

Between 1 July 2014 and 31 December 2022 there were 7,839 near hits, 322 collisions, 39 fatalities and 49 serious injuries at Australian level crossings.

“Despite decades of campaigning by families for improved lighting

and multiple reports backing this, we’ve failed to see action.

“I encourage everyone interested in supporting road and rail safety to sign the petition. It would be unforgiveable not to increase train lighting to save lives.”

The petition, launched by the group with federal parliamentarian Hon Melissa Price MP and WA MLA, Merome

Beard, can be found here: www.aph.gov. au/e-petitions/petition/ EN6369

NFF Hosts New Wave of Women Leaders in Canberra

The next generation of female leaders in agriculture gathered in Canberra to commence their journey with the Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program.

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) welcomed the 2024 cohort to the nation’s capital for a three-day introductory retreat.

Now in its seventh year, the program aims to pave a clear pathway for women to pursue leadership roles within the agricultural sector.

Acting Chief Executive Offcer Charlie Thomas highlighted the retreat’s comprehensive agenda.

“Over the three days, the 12 women engaged with parliamentarians and industry leaders, participated in practical personal and professional development sessions, and met their mentors,”

Mr. Thomas said.

“The Diversity in

Agriculture Leadership Program is the NFF’s fagship leadership initiative, focused on our goal to double the number of women in agriculture’s leadership ranks. I’m always blown away by the calibre of women the program attracts, and this year’s cohort has set the bar high. I look forward to following their journey

through the program and beyond as they each play a part in driving agriculture forward.”

A key component of the retreat was the initiation of the mentoring program.

The 12 mentees were matched with mentors to embark on a fve-month intensive mentoring journey.

Angela Hammond

from Inverell, NSW, has been paired with Diana Fear, CEO of Central West Farming Systems and a Diversity alumna. Following their frst mentoring session, both agreed they would mutually beneft from the experience.

drive meaningful work for women in ag and to convey our message to consumers.”

2024 Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Cohort:

• Amanda McClaren

– Graytown, VIC

• Angela Hammond –Inverell, NSW

• Becky Dickinson –Warragul, VIC

“I’ve ended up in accidental leadership roles and I want to gain support on how to be a better leader so my impact in agriculture can be even more positive,”

Ms. Hammond said.

“Through my role at Landcare Australia, I work for primary producers, and I want to learn more about taking their messages forward so we can have action on the ground. Diana and I have connected, and we’ve been discussing projects from our different perspectives. There are some really good opportunities to

• Jennifer Brown –Mascot, NSW

• Jenny Crema –South Mission Beach, QLD

• Kelly Nankivell –Tintinara, SA

• Lauren Langfeld –Aberfoyle Park, SA

• Madie Hamilton –Randwick, NSW

• Meredith King –Milsons Point, NSW

• Ming Fung Chua –Bayswater, WA

• Sarah Stevens –Mareeba, QLD

• Wendy Hick –Camooweal, QLD

About the Program: In its seventh year, the Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program is an annual mentoring and networking opportunity for 12 women in agriculture. Supported by 35 agricultural-focused organizations, the program is committed to making meaningful strides towards gender diversity in agriculture. It is a key initiative in the NFF’s goal to double the number of women in agriculture’s leadership ranks by 2030 as part of the NFF’s 2030 Roadmap. Participants will work with their mentors over the next fve months to develop and achieve their leadership goals, culminating in a graduation ceremony in October.

Can the Government Beat the Real Estate Industry in Its Money Laundering Crackdown?

When it comes to global rankings, Australia fnds itself competing in an unwanted category: money laundering and terrorism fnancing.

Alongside nations like the US, Haiti, China, and Madagascar, Australia has been criticized for not including real estate agents, lawyers, and accountants in its anti-money laundering (AML) laws. Consequently, Australian real estate has become a prime target for global money laundering, particularly from China.

According to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global body responsible for AML standards, Australia has signifcant vulnerabilities in its fnancial system. Despite being a founding member of the FATF in 1989, Australia remains one of the few developed nations that do not fully comply with international AML measures.

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus recently announced a renewed push to align Australia with global AML standards at the National Press Club. These changes were originally drafted in 2007 but were stalled due to lobbying efforts by real estate

more than doubled, and in some cities, trebled. It’s diffcult to quantify how much of this is due to money laundering by local or global crime syndicates. The reluctance to adopt Tranche II laws, combined with generous tax incentives for

avenues like cash, banks, luxury goods, real estate, and casinos are still preferred by criminals to legitimize their wealth. The domestic Australian drug market alone is valued at least $12.4 billion per year, and this money needs to be

preventing crimes before they occur, noting that prosecuting criminals alone is insuffcient.

International and Domestic Pressure

It’s not just local crime syndicates exploiting these lax rules. The AFP seized over 3,000 hectares of Tasmanian

agents, lawyers, and accountants. Over the years, there have been numerous reviews and promises from Canberra, but no substantial progress. How Bad Is the Problem?

Since the initial proposal of Tranche II laws, Australian housing prices have

property investors and the absence of taxes on lucrative gains for owner-occupiers, has made Australian real estate an attractive option for laundering illicit funds.

The amount of money requiring laundering is staggering. AUSTRAC chief Brendan Thomas noted that traditional

laundered through the economy annually.

Attorney-General Dreyfus highlighted that the Australian Federal Police (AFP) confscated more than $352 million worth of assets last year, with real estate accounting for 65% of those assets. He emphasized the importance of

farmland bought by Chinese nationals using crime proceeds, facilitated by a local accountant who advised on evading bank triggers and alerts.

The FATF has singled out Australia’s failure to extend its AML and counter-terrorism fnancing (CTF) regime to so-called Tranche

II entities – lawyers, accountants, and real estate agents. The legal profession argues that such laws might contravene client confdentiality clauses. However, after 16 years of resisting international pressure to enhance detection and prevention measures, these professional groups may fnally be forced to comply.

Conclusion

Australia stands at a critical juncture. The push to implement Tranche II laws represents a signifcant step towards aligning with global AML standards and addressing the vulnerabilities that have made its real estate market a target for money laundering. The challenge will be overcoming the resistance from powerful professional bodies and ensuring that new regulations are effectively enforced to protect the integrity of Australia’s fnancial system.

Do Renters Have a Right to Heating and Air-Conditioning?

UNSW Sydney

Expanding minimum standards for rental properties could improve conditions for renters enduring cold winters.

Australian homes can get particularly cold during winter months. If you’re a renter, you may have experienced the discomfort of inadequate heating when temperatures drop.

You might wonder if your landlord is obligated to provide better heating solutions.

Dr. Chris Martin, Senior Research Fellow from the UNSW City Futures Research Centre at UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture, explains that it depends on how cold your rental is and the state you live in.

Premises Must Be Fit for Habitation Residential tenancy legislation in most states does not require fxed air-conditioning or

heating devices in rental properties. However, properties must generally be habitable.

“While the exact wording differs between jurisdictions, the habitability obligation means landlords must ensure the premises can be lived in safely and comfortably,” Dr. Martin says. “If it takes an airconditioner or a heating unit to make a premises habitable, that’s what’s required to meet that obligation.”

A 2022 report by Better Renting found that Australian rental homes routinely fall below 18 degrees during winter –the minimum safe indoor temperature according to the World Health Organization.

“If premises are so cold they are unsafe or unbearably uncomfortable, they are not ft for habitation, and the landlord is in breach of the tenancy

agreement,” Dr. Martin adds. “Likewise, if a premises is too hot, it can also be unsafe or uncomfortable, breaching the tenancy agreement.”

Tenants in uncomfortable or unsafe conditions due to cold can request their landlord to install a fxed heating unit or insulation. If the landlord does not act, tenants can apply to a tribunal for a breach of agreement and seek an order to make the premises habitable. They might also seek remedies such as a rent reduction or compensation for illness caused by the cold.

“While the habitability obligation covers many circumstances, tenants might have to argue with landlords about what’s needed to meet the obligation,” Dr. Martin says. “This can be diffcult given the power imbalance where

landlords hold most of the power.”

Raising Minimum Standards for Rental Housing States and territories have been amending tenancy laws to include minimum standards for rental properties. While most focus on basics like structural soundness and running water, some jurisdictions go further.

“For example, in New South Wales, minimum standards outline what is required by the general habitability obligation,” Dr. Martin says.

“Victoria sets higher standards, requiring landlords to improve properties, including heating.”

Victoria mandates all rental properties have a fxed heater in the main living space that meets energy effciency requirements.

Consultations are underway about introducing standards for

fxed cooling units and higher energy and water effciency.

Dr. Martin suggests other states should introduce similar phased heating requirements. However, these improvements could lead to higher rents.

“Raising rental property standards will likely impose costs, leading to higher rents,” Dr. Martin says. “But improvements focusing on energy effciency could save tenants money through better thermal performance.”

Abolishing No-Grounds Evictions

A key reform to strengthen renters’ security alongside raising minimum standards is ending evictions without grounds.

“Abolishing no grounds terminations is crucial for every other reform,” Dr. Martin says. “This ensures tenants can assert their

rights, like requesting repairs, without fear of repercussions from landlords.”

The Minn’s Labor Government committed to abolish no-ground terminations in New South Wales but has yet to act. In Victoria, no-grounds evictions can still occur at the end of the frst fxed term.

Dr. Martin argues reforms should prevent landlords from unreasonably terminating tenancies without grounds at any time.

“No grounds evictions cover unreasonable landlords exploiting tenants’ legal insecurity,” Dr. Martin says. “Every jurisdiction should prioritize eliminating nogrounds terminations to protect renters and their rights.”

When Do People with Alzheimer’s Need to Move to a Nursing Home?

People with Alzheimer’s disease don’t always need to move to a nursing home, especially if their condition is manageable at home. However, transitioning may become necessary when a person requires more care than they can receive at home. Here’s a guide to understanding when a nursing home may be appropriate, the different types of care available, and how to make the transition smoother.

When to Consider a Nursing Home Alzheimer’s disease eventually impacts every aspect of health and functioning, making it unsafe for individuals to live independently. Symptoms include:

• Memory and Cognition: Unsafe living conditions due to an inability to perform daily tasks safely.

• Physical Health: Issues like incontinence, increased choking risk, and frequent infections. When these symptoms become unmanageable at

home, it might be time to consider a nursing home, which offers specialized, ongoing care.

Signs That Indicate the Need for a Nursing Home A move to a nursing home may be necessary if:

• The home environment is diffcult to navigate due to narrow hallways or stairs.

• The person lives far from loved ones and cannot care for themselves.

• Caregivers lack the time or physical ability to provide necessary support.

• Caregivers experience burnout, overwhelm, or depression. Types of Care for Alzheimer’s Aside from nursing homes, other care options include:

• Independent Living: Suitable for early-stage Alzheimer’s patients who do not need daily help.

• Assisted Living: Offers help with daily activities, ideal for early

to middle stages of dementia.

• Memory Care: Provides 24/7 care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Nursing homes offer specialized medical care from trained staff and are best for people with complex medical needs. Benefts and Downsides Benefts:

• Increased safety

• Opportunities for socialization

• Reduced caregiver stress

• Potentially lower costs compared to live-in care

Downsides:

• Higher costs than some alternatives, such as at-home care

• Possible distress for

the patient, exacerbating symptoms

• Less time spent with loved ones if the facility is far

How to Decide

Consider these questions:

• What works and what doesn’t in the current living arrangement?

• What is the available budget?

• Are there quality nursing homes locally? Consulting with a social worker or aging life specialist can provide guidance and a deeper understanding of managing dementia symptoms. Preparing for the Transition Steps to ease the

transition include:

• Explain the Situation: Provide reassurance and visit the new place ahead of time if possible.

• Consult a Doctor: Seek advice on medications or strategies to ease the transition.

• Prepare Their Room: Make the new space comfortable and familiar with items from home.

• Step into Their World: Understand and accept their perceptions, even if they don’t align with reality.

• Practice Self-Care: Caregivers should take time for themselves and seek support.

Handling Refusal If the person with Alzheimer’s can make

informed decisions, they have the right to refuse to move. If not, caregivers might need legal advice to appoint a guardian.

Summary

Transitioning to a nursing home can be challenging, but it may offer the necessary support, socialization, and safety for individuals with Alzheimer’s.

Deciding on the right time and type of care involves weighing the benefts and downsides and seeking advice from professionals and support organizations. For more information on legal documents and setting up power of attorney for dementia, visit Alzheimer’s Association.

Cut Pensioner Poverty with Targeted Concessions

There is a better way to provide cost-of-living support to seniors. Here’s how.

While some Australians fare well fnancially in later life, others struggle signifcantly.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) estimates that

20% of Australians aged 65 and older live in poverty. The Grattan Institute suggests the poverty rate is about 10% when housing wealth is considered.

A survey by National Seniors Australia revealed that almost 40% of older renters and over 30% of older households

in the lowest income brackets face severe cost-of-living pressures, much higher than other groups.

Types of Concessions

Commonwealth Concession Cards, issued by the Department of Social Services and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, provide access to subsidised services and cost-of-living concessions at all government levels. Currently, all pensioners receive the same concessions via the Pensioners Concession Card (PCC), regardless of their wealth and income. This means a homeowning couple with signifcant assets receives the same concessions as a couple with no assets and no home.

The Problem This universal approach makes it prohibitively expensive for governments to provide additional targeted

concessions or support specifcally to those in need. As a result, the government often refrains from taking action.

Our Solution National Seniors Australia proposes the creation of a Pensioner Concession Card+ (PCC+), enabling local, state, and federal governments to target additional concessions and support to eligible pensioners. This policy initiative is now with the government as part of NSA’s 2024-25 Budget submission.

The targeted PCC+ would allow the government to better support eligible pensioners with higher concession rates, dental subsidies, cheaper medicines, or healthcare rebates. The government could use existing customer data to tailor eligibility, considering a person’s income and assets to determine the

amount of Age Pension they receive. This data could also be used to determine eligibility for a PCC+ based on an appropriate criterion.

Budget Costs

Providing a targeted PCC+ would involve relatively small administrative costs within the existing system. Funding new concessions would be the major cost, but by targeting those in need, the cost to the government would be small, with a large impact. For instance, if 20% of pensioners (500,000) were assessed as living in poverty, the government could:

• Administer a targeted Seniors Dental Benefts Scheme (SDBS): If each recipient were eligible for $500 per year for dental care, this would cost $250 million per year for 500,000 pensioners with a PCC+.

Providing the same beneft to all pensioners

would cost $1.25 billion.

• Administer additional relief for those most in need:

Under the recent Energy Bill Relief Fund, all pensioners were eligible for up to $500 to offset energy bills at a cost of $1.25 billion. Under a PCC+ card, the government could provide an additional $250 rebate for PCC+ holders, costing only $125 million compared to $625 million for all pensioners.

The PCC+ would provide additional support to pensioners with limited means and increased support as pensioners spend down their savings later in life. By implementing the PCC+, the government can offer more targeted, effective support to those who need it most, reducing pensioner poverty and improving the quality of life for many older Australians.

The United States is a vast country, brimming with diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural experiences.

From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, here are the best places to visit in the USA, offering something for every traveller.

New York City, New York

New York City, often referred to as “The Big Apple,” is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the USA.

Start your journey in Times Square, where the dazzling lights and bustling atmosphere encapsulate the city’s energy. Don’t miss the chance to see a Broadway show, a quintessential New York experience.

Central Park provides a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, offering sprawling green spaces, scenic walking paths, and iconic landmarks like Bethesda Terrace. Art enthusiasts should head to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art, both housing world-renowned collections.

A trip to New York isn’t complete without visiting the Statue of Liberty

and Ellis Island. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for an up-close view of Lady Liberty and learn about the millions of immigrants who passed through Ellis Island.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco, known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and eclectic culture, is a city that captivates visitors with its charm. Start your exploration with a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge, where you can walk or bike across and take in breathtaking views of the bay.

Fisherman’s Wharf is a bustling area flled with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and attractions like Pier 39, home to playful sea lions. For a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history, take a ferry to Alcatraz Island and tour the infamous former prison.

Don’t miss the chance to ride the city’s historic cable cars, which offer a unique way to see San Francisco’s hilly streets and neighbourhoods.

Explore Chinatown, the oldest Chinatown in North America, and the vibrant HaightAshbury district,

known for its role in the 1960s counterculture movement.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is one of the most aweinspiring natural wonders in the world. Located in Arizona, this immense canyon carved by the Colorado River offers stunning vistas, hiking trails, and opportunities for outdoor adventures. Visit the South Rim for some of the most accessible and panoramic views of the canyon. Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Desert View Watchtower are popular viewpoints offering breathtaking perspectives. For a deeper exploration, consider hiking the Bright Angel Trail or the South Kaibab Trail, which provide closer encounters with the canyon’s geological formations.

For a truly unforgettable experience, book a helicopter tour to see the Grand Canyon from above. The sight of the canyon’s vast expanse and intricate layers from the air is a memory that will last a lifetime.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is a city

renowned for its vibrant culture, lively music scene, and delectable cuisine. Start your visit in the French Quarter, where the streets are alive with jazz music, colourful buildings, and the aroma of Creole and Cajun dishes.

Jackson Square is the heart of the French Quarter, surrounded by historic landmarks like St. Louis Cathedral and the Cabildo. Take a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi River or hop on a steamboat cruise for a unique perspective of the city.

The Garden District offers a different kind of charm with its historic mansions and oak-lined streets. For a taste of New Orleans’ spooky side, join a ghost tour and learn about the city’s haunted history. And, of course, no visit to New Orleans is complete without indulging in beignets at Café du Monde.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/ Montana/Idaho

Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonderland that spans three states and offers a diverse array of landscapes, from geysers

and hot springs to lush forests and rugged mountains. The park is home to the famous Old Faithful geyser, which erupts with remarkable regularity.

Explore the geothermal features of the park, including the colourful Grand Prismatic Spring and the bubbling mud pots at the Norris Geyser Basin. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the chance to see bison, elk, bears, and wolves in their natural habitats.

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone offers stunning views of waterfalls and dramatic rock formations. For those who love hiking, the park boasts numerous trails that range from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks. Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is a city rich in history and culture. The National Mall is a must-visit, home to iconic landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

The Smithsonian Institution offers a

collection of museums, including the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, and the National Museum of Natural History. Each museum provides a unique glimpse into different aspects of American history and culture.

Don’t miss a tour of the U.S. Capitol and a visit to the White House for a closer look at the country’s political history. The Tidal Basin, with its cherry blossoms in spring, is a beautiful spot for a leisurely stroll.

The USA is a country of incredible diversity, offering a wide range of experiences for travellers. From the urban excitement of New York City and San Francisco to the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone, each destination has its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant culture of New Orleans or the historic landmarks of Washington, D.C., your journey through the USA is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.

July’s Savings Boost Will Make Retirement Even More Super

Starting this July 1, more than 9.2 million Australians will receive a boost to their superannuation savings, thanks to an automatic increase in the Super Guarantee rate from 11 percent to 11.5 percent. This change will add an extra $340 in employerpaid super contributions to the average Australian worker’s account annually.

The 0.5 percent rise in the Superannuation Guarantee could provide the typical 30-year-old with an additional $17,570 at retirement. When combined with next year’s legislated increase to 12 percent, this amount could grow to $34,000.

Super Members Council CEO Misha Schubert emphasized the importance 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 Ms. 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 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 investment capital to Australian companies and – most importantly

Is

- gives millions of Australians a better life at retirement.”

Ahead of the July 1 super rise, the Super Members Council analysed large-scale de-identified tax and Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data to determine who would benefit most from the increase. The findings revealed that younger Australians and those on lower incomes would receive the most significant boosts.

Key Findings from the Super Members Council Analysis:

• Beneficiaries: 9.27 million people will receive a super boost this year, split almost evenly between men (4.7 million) and women (4.5 million).

• Age Distribution:

More than half of those receiving the increase

are under 40, with individuals in their 30s seeing the largest boosts (See Table 1).

• 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 (See Table 2).

• Regional Impact: The average West Australian will receive an extra $367 this year, the highest average super boost among the states (See Table 3).

• Occupations: 2.1 million professionals and nearly 2.7 million tradies, machine operators, and labourers will benefit from the increase (See Table 4).

The Super Guarantee is essential for funding the retirement of Australia’s aging population. Before compulsory super was introduced in 1993, only

it Too Difficult for Middle Australia to Secure Loans from Cautious Banks?

Is obtaining a loan becoming increasingly challenging for middleincome households in Australia? Some banking leaders, including ANZ Bank’s CEO Shayne Elliott, argue that it is. Elliott has been vocal about the unintended consequences of well-meaning banking regulations on credit accessibility.

During a recent analyst briefing, Elliott highlighted that although the intentions behind banking rules are commendable—ensuring safety for banks and borrowers alike—they have inadvertently restricted access to credit for middle Australia. “We want the banks to be safe, we want people to be

safe, we want nobody to lose their home, nobody to end up in financial difficulty, nobody to lose their business. Those are all laudable objectives, but they come at a cost, and the cost is exactly what we’re talking about now, which means that middle Australia gets locked out,” he stated.

This sentiment is not new among bankers and is likely to persist as they seek loan growth in a subdued market. Despite the predictability of these complaints, there is a valid concern underlying them.

Banks are indeed lending less than they were a few years ago, a predictable outcome as interest rates climb. However, Elliott and

other bankers argue that the issue runs deeper. They claim that the cumulative impact of regulatory policies has made lenders excessively cautious, thereby harming the economy.

Examining the evidence reveals that banks’ conservative approach extends beyond mortgages to crucial sectors like business investment. For instance, property developers have seen a significant reduction in lending from the big four banks, with their market share in commercial real estate loans shrinking from 85% in 2015 to 70% by the end of 2022. This pullback followed regulatory reviews that deemed lending standards

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 pressure on the taxpayerfunded age pension decreases. Currently, the proportions of people on the full and part-pension are steadily declining,

with superannuation now paying out more in 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.

too lenient, prompting tighter policies on pre-sales and loan-tovaluation ratios.

While this cautious approach has resulted in fewer bad loans for banks, it has also made it challenging to address the housing supply shortage. Small business lending is another area where the stringent credit environment has raised concerns. Barrenjoey analyst Jon Mott pointed out that secured lending to small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs) has grown significantly, while unsecured loans have lagged, potentially stifling innovation and economic growth.

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has also highlighted the

difficulties smaller firms face in accessing bank loans. Brad Jones, the RBA’s assistant governor for the financial system, noted in April that despite their crucial role in driving innovation, many SMEs struggle to secure financing.

Conversely, in the mortgage market, the argument for overly cautious banks is less compelling. Australian households are among the most indebted globally, primarily due to mortgage debt, with housing credit growing at a healthy rate of 4.5% annually. As explained by Australian Prudential Regulation Authority chairman John Lonsdale, the primary obstacles to homeownership are rising house prices, stagnant income growth, and increased interest rates. Lenders must assess new borrowers’ ability to repay at interest rates

three percentage points higher than the official rate, a measure designed to protect both borrowers and the financial system’s stability.

Relaxing these stringent mortgage lending standards could exacerbate housing affordability issues by increasing credit availability and demand, thereby driving up prices in an already supplyconstrained market.

Elliott acknowledged that the focus should shift from boosting demand to increasing housing supply.

While it may be reasonable to question whether banks should take more risks in business lending, any move to relax mortgage lending standards appears unlikely given the current economic landscape and housing market dynamics.

Table 1: Winners of the Super Guarantee increasing by 11% to 11.5% - by age

Table 3: Winners of the Super Guarantee increasing from 11% to 11.5% - by State

Table 4: Winners of the Super Guarantee increasing from 11% to 11.5% - by occupation type

Table 2: Winners of the Super Guarantee increasing by 11% to 11.5% - by income

By Jeff Gibbs

Hyundai’s top-selling small car is set for a signifcant update with the introduction of a turbo mild-hybrid powertrain and a corresponding price increase when it arrives later this year. The 2025 Hyundai i30 hatchback will likely be offered exclusively in N Line and N trims, maintaining the option for a manual transmission in the Australian market.

The updated i30 N Line will feature a new 1.5-litre turbo mild-

featuring revised styling, a widescreen digital instrument display, and new safety features.

Prices are anticipated to rise signifcantly as regular versions for Australia will now be built in the Czech Republic rather than South Korea, incurring a fve per cent import tariff.

Australian government documents confrm that standard variants of the i30 hatch range will be powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild-

hybrid engine, replacing the current 2.0-litre non-turbo and 1.6-litre turbo engines. This change marks a notable power reduction but introduces fuel effciency improvements. The updated model, expected between July and September, represents the second facelift since the i30’s 2016 launch,

hybrid system to reduce fuel consumption.

Certifcation data indicates this powertrain will only be available in the N Line trim. The fagship i30 N will continue with a 206kW 2.0-litre turbo fourcylinder engine, without a regular model to replace the current base, Active, and Elite grades.

2025 Skywell Skyhome

Raising the Benchmark for Luxury and Innovation on a Budget

2025 Hyundai i30 Hatch Update: Specs Confrmed for New Mild Hybrid

Both six-speed manual and sevenspeed automatic transmissions have been certifed, though the manual’s showroom presence remains uncertain, given its current fve to ten per cent sales share. The new engine is rated at 118kW in Australia, with an expected torque of 253Nm, offering similar power but signifcantly more torque than the existing 120kW/203Nm 2.0-litre non-turbo engine. However, it falls short of the

By Jeff Gibbs

Chinese electric car

brand Skywell is setting new standards for luxury and innovation with the launch of its Skyhome sedan in the United Kingdom. The Australian importer has hinted that this highly anticipated model could be arriving on Australian shores soon.

With a surge of new Chinese electric vehicle (EV) brands entering the Australian market, consumers are beneftting from increased variety and competitive prices. Skywell is a notable player to watch as it prepares to launch a range of vehicles in Australia.

The UK market often serves as a predictor for the Australian market, especially with righthand drive vehicles.

The Skywell Skyhome, confrmed for the UK by importer Innovation Automotive, is a fourseater sedan boasting a luxurious cabin, an enormous media screen for second-row passengers, rear-hinged back doors, and a sleek design.

Rivalling models such as the BYD Seal, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and Tesla Model 3, the Skyhome aims to deliver top-tier features at a competitive price. While specifc motor specifcations and

150kW/265Nm 1.6-litre turbo in the current N Line. Hyundai Europe cites fuel consumption at 5.7L/100km, an improvement over the 7.4L/100km for the 2.0-litre engine under less stringent Australian testing standards.

The mild-hybrid system provides an engine boost under acceleration and enables an auto engine stop-start system at traffc lights. All updated N Line models in Australia will feature 18-inch alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres, and sports

suspension. Hyundai Australia may equip the new model with either the standard 2.0-litre i30 brakes or the larger discs from the 1.6-litre N Line, potentially limited to a more expensive Premium variant.

Highway Driving Assist, a semiautonomous feature combining adaptive cruise control and lane centring assist, will be available on fagship versions. The i30 N will continue with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine producing 206kW

and 392Nm, paired with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Hyundai has also submitted paperwork to approve a Fastback body style for the updated i30 N range alongside the hatch, though its showroom availability remains uncertain. The i30 N Fastback was previously discontinued as a permanent model in 2021 but made a brief comeback as a limited edition in 2022.

pricing for the UK are yet to be announced, the anticipation is high.

David Potter, Managing Director of EV Automotive, the Australian importer for Skywell, expressed excitement about the potential introduction of the Skyhome to Australia. “EVA has been importing and distributing the Skywell range of commercial vehicles into Australia since 2022. We are thrilled to announce that preparations are well underway for the

importation of additional innovative vehicles, with plans to introduce several new vehicles including the new model SUV just in time for the holiday season, pending completion of the ADR certifcation,” said Potter. He continued, “The new Skywell SUV promises to offer Australian consumers a blend of cutting-edge design, advanced technology, and superior performance, ensuring a compelling choice in the competitive automotive landscape.

We believe this launch will mark a signifcant milestone for Skywell as we expand our footprint and commitment to delivering exceptional vehicles tailored to meet the needs of discerning drivers in Australia. We look forward to sharing more details with you as we approach the offcial release date.”

The Skywell SUV, referred to as the BE11 in the UK, is expected to be available in Australia by late 2024 or early 2025. This mid-size SUV measures 4.72 meters in

length and boasts a range of up to 490 kilometres (WLTP) with its largest 86kWh battery, 0-100 kph 3.9 seconds. Given the timeline, the Skyhome sedan could follow soon after.

As the Australian market continues to evolve with new entrants, Skywell’s Skyhome and SUV promise to deliver luxury, innovation, and value, making them compelling choices for the discerning Australian driver.

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Putting guide-rails on the new word order.

In the world of words, ‘Buzz’ words are especially important. Indeed they are so important someone coined the term ‘Buzz-word’ to describe them.

They alert people that users are part of the ‘wordworld’ and if correctly used are at the vanguard of that world, which also alerts people that they are wankers who need to be reassured of their importance.

Parous McLaren Vale

‘Stonehouse’ Shiraz 2016, $80. Two bottles of this were pretty much the cost of the case and as good an example of the benefts of patience as any, reaching quite impressive heights in its eighth year. The best bit of course is that we didn’t have to wait, they did it for us.

Proper aged McLaren Vale

Journalists and politicians are the main culprits of course.

Should I have issued a warning “if this column raises any issues, please call…”? Whoops, sorry about that, too late.

Anyway, school kids have always had their new words, indeed, that’s where most buzz-words come from – think ‘gas’, and ‘fab’, and more recently ‘whatevs’, and ‘WTF’, the latter of which has had

shiraz. 9.5/10. Viveur Adelaide Hills Shiraz 2022, $35. Quirky, playful labels with hippopotamuses with cigars seems a funny way to sell a wine, but who doesn’t love hippos apart from those eaten by them? And it’s pretty decent if a tad sweet, shiraz. 9.1/10.

Amelia Park Frankland River Ironstone Shiraz,

a great run and is no less acceptable now than when it was my number-plate two decades ago (try getting that through today) - but when journalists start using them, just as when parents begin using the same social media as their kids, it’s time to move on.

‘Moving forward’ had a run for a while and still lingers in offce lingo when someone has run out of words in a meeting, while deconstruct has long gone,

2022, $? WA really is a world unto itself, the accent is different (maybe not), the wealth is different, the time zone is London’s, and its wines are unto themselves, for which we should be unfailingly grateful. Lovely and ‘lovelyly’ distinct. 9.3/10. Wild and Wilder Langhorne Creek ‘The

ably assisted by chefs deconstructing everything from hamburgers to cherryripes. ‘Unpack’ was a case in point for while too until it became confusing for schoolkids and their lunchboxes, not that they really cared about what journos said on ABC’s Insiders where most of these words get their frst outing.

The optics of being the frst to utter a new word such as, well, ‘Optics’, is

Opportunist’ Shiraz 2022, $22. The vintage is quite diffcult to fnd on this label, and it seems curious to hide such a light under a bushel, whatever that means, of a wine of admirable intensity and character. Noice stuff. 9.3/10.

Watkins Family Wine Fleurieu ‘Iron-Fire’ Tempranillo, 2021,

quite different for journos compared to the general public, but it’s not as clear cut as that, or should I say ‘binary’? I would if that word hadn’t gone so far out of fashion.

Predictably there is a new word that reporters and media hosts are bursting with excitement to use before their colleagues do, and that’s ‘guard-rails’, or the less common iteration ‘guide-rails’.

Don’t believe me? Just

$25. Got all the buzz words, vegan gluten-free, sustainable, it’s a nod to ‘Spanish reserva style’, (just Google it mate), says the label, to be enjoyed with Spanish stuff like ‘paprika, anchovies, chorizo, and vego’ paella’. Why vego? Anise and herbaceous, which sounds like a bad year for the royals. 9/10.

check the optics of Insiders guests moving forward and unpack it yourself. Maybe watch it on iView rather than 9am Sunday morning if you want to deconstruct a glass of wine while you do it, perhaps one of these : (A case of the following wines (2 of each) was purchased from Vinomofo for $160, making an average bottle price of $13.33. Prices quoted below are website listed prices.)

Farmer’s Leap Padthaway ‘Random Shot’ Shiraz 2021, $20. Perfect for Gen ‘Y’ers and Millennials whose lives are full of ‘randoms’ evidently. Might even sway them to the fold as it’s a full bodied and favoursome red wine with plenty character and bold shiraz bits. 9.4/10.

Max Crus

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

From simple meals to show-stopping feasts, there’s something for everyone.

SLOW COOKER PULLED MONGOLIAN LAMB

15m

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tbs vegetable oil

• 1 brown onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 2 tsp fnely grated fresh ginger

• ½ tsp Chinese fve spice

• 80ml (1/3 cup) hoisin sauce

• 60ml (1/4 cup) soy sauce

• 60ml (1/4 cup) Shaoxing wine

• 2kg lamb shoulder (on the bone)

• 2 tsp sesame oil

• Steamed rice, to serve

• Broccolini, to serve

METHOD

1. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium

COCONUTCRUMBED PRAWNS WITH LIME AIOLI

25m prep 05m cook 2 servings

heat. Add onion. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until soft. Add the garlic and ginger. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Stir through the fve spice, hoisin, soy and wine.

2. Place the lamb into the slow cooker. Add onion mixture. Cover and cook on Low, turning lamb halfway through, for 8 hours or until tender.

3. Carefully transfer the lamb to a chopping board. Trim fat then pull the meat off the bone. Shred with a fork or leave in chunks, if you like. Use a lade to skim the fat from the surface of the sauce in the slow cooker.

4. Return the meat to the slow cooker. Stir through the sesame oil. Top with shallot. Divide among serving bowls. Serve with rice and broccolini.

INGREDIENTS

• 8 large green king prawns, peeled, deveined, tails intact

• 1/4 cup plain four

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup Shredded Coconut

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (see note)

• Vegetable oil, for shallow-frying Lime aioli

• 1/4 cup whole-egg mayonnaise

• 1 small garlic clove, crushed

• 1/2 tsp fnely grated lime rind

• 1 tbsp lime juice METHOD

MISO SOUP RECIPE

05m prep

6 servings

With only 5 ingredients and ready in just 10 minutes, this miso soup recipe is a simple yet favorful delight. Dried seaweed blooms in the simmering dashi broth, while soft tofu cubes add a silky texture. The result is a deeply nourishing bowl of umami.

Miso soup, a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, can be enjoyed any time of the day or as a side dish. Sip it directly from the bowl, using chopsticks to guide the seaweed and tofu to your mouth, just like the Japanese do.

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cups (1 litre) dashi stock

• 20g dried seaweed

• 1/4 cup (75g) red miso paste

• 150g Silken Tofu, cut into 2cm cubes

• 3 green onions, trimmed, thinly sliced

METHOD

1. Place the dashi in a large saucepan over medium heat. Bring to the boil. reduce heat to low. Add the seaweed and cook for 1 minute or until seaweed softens. Add the tofu and cook for a further 1 minute or until heated through.

2. Place the miso paste in a small bowl. Add a little of the dashi, stirring until miso dissolves. Add the miso mixture to the saucepan and gently stir to combine. Bring to a simmer. remove from heat.

3. Ladle miso evenly among serving bowls. Sprinkle with green onions and serve immediately.

1. Using the palm of your hand, slightly fatten prawns. Place four in a bowl. Add prawns. Toss to coat.

2. Whisk egg and 2 tablespoons cold water together in a shallow bowl. Combine coconut and breadcrumbs on a plate. Dip 1 prawn in egg mixture, then breadcrumb mixture. Place on a plate. Repeat with remaining prawns, egg mixture and breadcrumb mixture.

3. Heat oil in a large frying pan. Cook prawns for 2 minutes each side or until golden and cooked through.

4. Meanwhile, make aioli Place mayonnaise, garlic, lime rind and lime juice in a bowl. Stir to combine.

5. Serve prawns with aioli.

Buying SecondHand Gardening Equipment

Gardening is a rewarding hobby, but the costs can add up quickly, especially when purchasing new tools and equipment. Luckily, buying second-hand gardening equipment is a cost-effective and sustainable option that can provide high-quality tools at a fraction of the price. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the world of pre-loved gardening gear.

Why Buy SecondHand?

First and foremost, buying second-hand gardening equipment is eco-friendly. It reduces waste and gives useful tools a second life, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle. Financially, it’s a no-brainer. Second-hand tools can be signifcantly cheaper than new ones, allowing you to get more for your money and potentially invest in higher-quality brands that might be out of reach if bought new.

Where to Buy

There are several places to fnd good second-hand gardening equipment. Online marketplaces like eBay, Gumtree, and Facebook Marketplace are

treasure troves for used tools. Additionally, local thrift stores, garage sales, and community swap events are excellent places to search. Specialty shops and garden centres and tip shops sometimes offer refurbished tools with warranties, providing peace of mind with your purchase. What to Look For When buying secondhand, condition is key. Look for tools that have been well-maintained. Rust, worn handles, and loose parts can be red fags, but minor wear and tear are acceptable and often easily fxable. Brands known for durability, such as Fiskars, Husqvarna, and Stihl, are good choices as their tools are built to last.

Tips for a Successful Purchase

• Do Your Research: Know the going rate for new and used versions of the tool you’re interested in. This helps you spot a good deal.

• Test Before You Buy: If possible, test the tool to ensure it works correctly.

• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the seller about the tool’s history and why they are selling it.

How to Overseed a Lawn

Maintaining a lush, green lawn can be challenging, especially after a hot summer or a harsh winter. One effective way to rejuvenate your lawn and improve its overall appearance is through overseeding. Overseeding involves spreading grass seed over your existing lawn to fll in thin areas, improve grass density, and enhance the lawn’s colour.

Step 1: Choose the Right Time

Timing is crucial when it comes to overseeding. The best times to overseed are during the late summer to early fall or early spring. These periods provide optimal growing conditions for grass seed due to the moderate temperatures and adequate rainfall. Overseeding in the fall is particularly benefcial because the soil is still warm, and there is less competition from weeds.

Step 2: Select the Appropriate Grass Seed

Choosing the right type of grass seed is essential for successful overseeding. Consider the climate of your region, the amount of sunlight your lawn receives, and the type of soil. Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fescues are ideal for northern regions, while warm-season grasses such as Bermuda, zoysia, and St. Augustine are better suited for southern areas. Look for a high-

Step 3: Prepare the Lawn

Proper preparation of your lawn before overseeding is vital for the new grass seed to take root and thrive.

1 Mow the Lawn: Start by mowing your lawn to a shorter height than usual, around 1.5 to 2 inches. This helps the new grass seed to make better contact with the soil and receive adequate sunlight.

2 Dethatch: Thatch is a layer of dead grass, roots, and debris that can accumulate on the soil surface. Use a dethatching rake or a power dethatcher to remove this layer, allowing the new seed to penetrate the soil.

3 Aerate the Lawn: Aeration involves creating small holes in the soil to alleviate compaction and improve water, nutrient, and air movement to the grass roots. You can use a manual or powered aerator for this task. Aerating the lawn creates a favourable environment for the new grass seed to grow.

Step 4: Spread the Grass Seed

Once your lawn is prepared, it’s time to spread the grass seed. Use a broadcast spreader for even distribution. Follow the recommended seeding rate on the grass seed packaging to avoid over- or under-seeding. For best results, divide

the seed into two portions and spread one portion in one direction (north-south) and the other portion in the opposite direction (eastwest). This ensures even coverage and reduces the risk of bare spots.

Step 5: Apply Fertiliser

Fertilising your lawn after overseeding provides essential nutrients that promote seed germination and growth. Choose a starter fertiliser with a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid using weed-and-feed products, as they can inhibit seed germination. Apply the fertiliser evenly using a spreader, following the recommended application rate on the product label.

Step 6: Water the Lawn

Proper watering is crucial for the success of overseeding. Water the lawn immediately after spreading the seed and fertiliser to help the seeds settle into the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water lightly and frequently, about 2-3 times a day, for the frst two weeks. As the grass begins to germinate and grow, gradually reduce the frequency and increase the duration of watering.

Step 7: Maintain the New Grass

Once the new grass reaches a height of about 3 inches, it’s time to mow the lawn.

Set your mower to a higher setting to avoid cutting the new grass too short. Continue to mow regularly, but be careful not to remove more than one-third of the grass blade length at a time. Avoid heavy foot traffc on the newly overseeded areas until the grass is well-established.

Step 8: Monitor and Care for Your Lawn Regular maintenance is essential to keep your lawn healthy and thriving. Continue to water, mow, and fertilise as needed. Monitor your lawn for signs of disease, pests, and weeds, and take appropriate action to address any issues promptly. With proper care, your overseeded lawn will develop into a dense, lush, and beautiful yard.

Conclusion Overseeding is a valuable technique to rejuvenate your lawn and enhance its overall health and appearance. By following these steps— choosing the right time, selecting the appropriate grass seed, preparing the lawn, spreading the seed, applying fertiliser, watering, and maintaining the new grass—you can achieve a vibrant, green lawn that will be the envy of your neighbourhood. Regular overseeding can keep your lawn looking its best year after year, providing a welcoming and attractive outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy.

quality grass seed mix that is compatible with your existing lawn.

Death Notice

LEU, JOAN ISABEL

Formerly of Lismore. Passed away peacefully on Tuesday July 9th, 2024 aged 92 years.

Beloved wife of Jack (dec).

Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Jack (dec) and Jan; Lindy and Barry; Jennifer and Neil. A treasured grandma and great grandma and much loved sister of Graham Knight (dec) and Darrell Knight.

Always In Our Hearts

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend a celebration of Joan’s life to be held in the Chapel of Lismore Memorial Gardens Crematorium, Skyline Road Goonellabah on (MONDAY July 22, 2024) commencing at 10.00 am.

Death Notice

CALVIN BOWMAN POWER

Calvin Chilcott passed away peacefully at the Alstonville Adventist Retirement Village on Monday morning, 15th July, 2024. Dearly loved husband of Marie (dec.) and treasured mother to Julie, Geofrey, Karen and Marilyn. Father-in-law to Gavin, Trudi, Michael and Simon. Grandad to seven grand children and Great-Grandad to ten great-grand children.

Awaiting the resurrection. Graveside Service was held at 10am at Alstonville Lawn Cemetery where family and friends gathered. is will be followed by a Life Celebration Service at Lismore SDA Church.

CHILCOTT,

100 Angus X Weaner Steers

50 Hereford X Weaner Steers

20 Droughtmaster X Weaner Steers

30 Brangus X Weaner Steers

70 Charolais X Weaner Heifers

50 Angus X Weaner Heifers

20 Simmental X Weaner Heifers

20 Angus Heifers

L & M Brown - Mallanganee 60 Simmental X Weaners - Mixed

A/c WG & JA Watt - Ellangowan

20 Weaned Angus Heifers 12-14 Months Old

WEATHER

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Mostly sunny. Winds westerly 20 to 30 km/h.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower. Light winds becoming west to southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the afternoon.

Northern Tablelands District:

Cloudy. High chance of showers on and west of the ranges, slight chance elsewhere. Snow falling above 1200 metres. Winds westerly 25 to 35 km/h.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers on and west of the ranges, slight chance elsewhere. Snow possible above 1300 metres. Winds westerly 20 to 30 km/h.

New South Wales:

Scattered showers along the ranges and western slopes and southern half of the coast. Isolated showers elsewhere, except in the far northeast. A dusting of snow possible on the ranges above 1100 or 1200 metres. Morning frost about the ranges and northern inland. Remaining dry and partly cloudy in the far northeast. West to southwesterly winds, fresh along the northern ranges and along the coastal fringe, turning southerly across the south.

Thursday. Scattered showers along the northern half of the ranges and adjacent western slopes with the chance of showers elsewhere. A dusting of snow possible on the ranges above 1100 or 1200 metres. Morning frost on the southern ranges and inland. Daytime temperatures below average, most notably in the north. West to southwesterly winds, fresh at times along the coastal fringe and on the ranges.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Westerly 20 to 30 knots turning southwesterly 15 to 25 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1.5 to 2.5 metres. Swell: Southerly below 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore during the afternoon or evening. Weather: Mostly sunny. Coffs Coast:

Winds: Westerly 20 to 30 knots turning southwesterly 15 to 25 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1.5 to 2.5 metres. Swell: Southerly below 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore during the afternoon or evening. Weather: Mostly sunny. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Westerly 20 to 30 knots. Seas: 1.5 to 2.5 metres, decreasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Southerly below 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny.

By Tim Howard Murwillumbah galloper

Cepheus has gone two from two at the South Grafton Cup to earn himself another shot at the $2 million Big Dance in November.

On Sunday the Matthew Dunn trained seven-year-old had to endure an excruciating wait as stewards took more than 10 minutes to dismiss a protest and award the $80,000 race to the front runner, who fnished a nose in front of favourite Estadio Mestalla.

The jockey of the runner up, Michael Cahill, fred in a protest after the race, claiming the Nash Rawiller-ridden Cepheus had checked him in the straight about 100m from the post.

But Rawiller said he was always confdent the decision would go his way.

He said Cepheus had been trying to maintain his line on the fence and

Estadio Mestalla had moved in on him.

“It actually forced me to let him go a little bit earlier that I wanted,” Rawiller said.

“There was a little bit of tit for tat after that and fortunately the stewards saw it similar to me.”

It was a sweet victory for the Dunn stable who had fown Rawiller to Grafton specifcally for this race.

“Nash has shown he can get more out of Cepheus than anybody else,” Dunn said when accepting his trainer’s trophy after the race.

The stable had concerns about the possibility of a soft track at Grafton and Rawiller had taken an opportunity to inspect it before racing started.

A part owner of the horse, Maree Anderson, said heavy tracks had played havoc with Cepheus’ latest campaign.

“We were worried when we came here with the track rated a heavy

8,” Anderson said.

“Nash came back from walking the track and when he came past us he gave us a wink, so I knew then it was all right.”

By the time the Grafton Toyota South Grafton Cup was run, the track rating had improved to a soft 5, which Anderson said was “right in his range”.

While the connections were confdent that Cepheus was a good

BALLINA MAHJONG RESULTS 12-07-24

Pam Farrell 1, Vanessaa Reynolds 2, Sally Lowry 3, Joy Lowien 4, Jane Fenech 5, Shirley Atkinson 6, Gail McDonagh 7, Jeanette Henwood, Lynda Lovett 8, Jan Small 10, Valda McLerie 11, Jenny Lang, Lesley Richie, Lorna Simpson, Ramsay Roper 12, Ronda Taylor 16, Coral Lavelle 17, Susan Allan 18, Yvonne Weddup 19, Lisa Wong 20, Carol Meyer, Jan Boardman 21, Kath Hubbard 23, Pauline Kearney, Shirley Coleman 24, Wendy Thornton 26, Susan Scott 27, Cindy Smith 28, Val Heinritz 29. Friday at 12:30pm at the Ballina Bridge Club North Creek Road. Enquiries for new players phone Shirley

on 0423384647.

CASINO SOCIAL GOLF RESULTS 14-07-2024

The winner of social golf on Sunday was C.Hatfeld with a net score of 20 from Steve Ensby with 22. The putting trophy went to Vinny with 11 putts and S.Shephard won the players draw. Nearest to pins: 2nd, G.Randall. 3rd & 5th, R.Ruttley. 4th, 6th & 8th, N.Bolt. 7th & 18th, J.Rankin. 17th, M.Gooding. Next Sunday’s event Sponsored by Gumbo Pies will be a single stableford on the top 11 holes and visitors are welcome to play with hit off from 6-30am till 7-30am.

CASINO WOMEN’S

BOWLS RESULTS

Club selected Pairs champions for 2024

Denise Grice & Denise Skinner

On Wednesday 10/7 there were 2 rinks of social bowls & the results were: Winners of the day were Marlene Jordan, Judy Carthew & Jan Cooke def Julie Creighton, Raelene Skirrey & Annette James. The other rink winners were:

Maria Hellyar & Denise Skinner def Chris Haynes & Mary Mead

CHERRY STREET

CROQUET CLUB

SPORTS RESULTS

TOURNAMENTS:

Gold Coast Tweed

Region Association Croquet Championships:

better race than we saw here today,” Green said.

“It close like that all the way down the straight.”

Green said it was also uncanny the way Cepheus was able to edge out his rival by a similar margin to his 2023 win.

“He’s that type of horse,” he said. “He just seems to know how to win these sort of fnishes.”

Green also said the ride from Rawiller had made the most of track conditions.

chance, the 62kg he was carrying made bookies sceptical.

He started at $5.50 with Estadio Mestalla at $2.60 and in the run to the line Cepheus only just proved them wrong.

Clarence River Jockey Club Graeme Green chairman Graeme Green likened the fnish to the epic duel between sprint champions Cangronde and Moss Rocket in the 1996 Ramornie Hcp.

“You couldn’t get a

“Nash had walked the course and had come up with a race plan based on that and he stuck to it,” he said.

The win lines Cepheus up for another shot at the Big Dance at Royal Randwick on November 5.

Last year he ran second to Attractable and connections believe he has unfnished business in the race.

“He was so close last year,” Anderson said. “A

few of the owners went to Randwick for the race and we believed he was a bit unlucky. A few things didn’t go his way.

“We just thought at the time if he could have another go at it, he could do it.

“I think he’s continuing to improve in these types of races.”

She said the sevenyear-old from Great Britain had come to Australia as a stayer, targeting the Melbourne Cup.

“He was injured and when he came back it was the mile races that seemed to suit him,” she said.

“So he’s become a 1400m to 1600m specialist.”

The South Grafton Cup has generated just the sort of excitement the CRJC wanted in the lead up to the two feature days of the July Carnival, Ramornie Handicap Day on Wednesday and the Grafton Cup on Thursday.

Division 2 Singles: M.Campbell 1, D.Backer 2, G.Clarke 3.

Division 3 Singles : A.Keetman 1, P.Waters 2, G.Trivett 3.

Division 4 Singles: S.Scrimgeour 1, J.Roberts 2, R.Dawson 3. Open Singles: S.Hockey 1, M.Gidding 2, G.Rowberry 3.

Over 70s: G.Porter 1, P. Deeth 2, P.Bateman 3. M.Doubles : S.Hockey F.Hockey 1, T.Kaucic E.Frater 2, P.Waters

G.Porter 3.

NSW Division 3 Golf

Croquet Singles & Doubles

Championships:

X Division :G.Allen R Batho 1, J.Hart G.Modlich 2, B.Barrett D.Cummings 3, J.Gaggin J.Tonkin 4.

Z Division : M.Lund

J.Dorward 1, F.Batho R.Taylor 2.

Y Division : D.Sinclair S.Sinclair 1, D.Jones W.Quinn 2, S.Mason W.Fryer 3, G.Knight K.Kolbe 4, A.Newling P.Newling 5.

Singles : R.Batho Nelson Bay 1, G.Modlich 2, W.Quinn 3, F.Batho 4. Plate : D.Cummings 1, J.Hannigan 2, A.Myer 3, V.Hodge 4 , K.Cowper 5, D.Jones 6, H.Scruton 7, R.Taylor 8, S.Mason 9.

Z Division : G. Allan 1,S.Wallace 2, M.Lund 3, J.Brodie 4.

Y Division : J Hart 1, A.Michalak 2, S.Bruce 3, C.Beaton 4.

W Division : W.Fryer 1, J.Dorward 2, L.Hudson 3.

CORAKI VETERANS

GOLF RESULTS

THURSDAY 11/7/24

45 golfers contested the Jim Ormond trophy day. A well deserved winner on a count back David Vagne, 2rd R Webber, 3rd S Smith, free game G Brown, chicken/ball winners

S Toms M Bruggy, S McDonough, T McBurney, B Micheal, B Waterson, K Osborne, G Flaherty, N Blake. Nearest pins 3rd/12th B Micheal 6th/15th S McDonough. This Thursday 18/7/24 will be an 18-hole single stableford commencing with a shot gun start at 8.30am, followed by the next week with an inter club visit to Woodburn Evans Head golf club. AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING

A confdent Nash Rawiller returns to scale aboard Cepheus, despite a looming protest against his narrow win over Estadio Mestalla in Sunday’s feature race at Grafton, the $80,000 South Grafton Cup.

The connections of Cepheus celebrate their win with the horse in the South Grafton Cup on Sunday

Cepheus makes it two from two in the South Grafton Cup, dashing across the line to win by a nose from race favourite Estadio Mestalla. The fnish was nearly identical to his 2023 win, when he edged out Cotohele.

By Gary Nichols

THE Grafton Redmen frst grade side kept their fnal’s hopes alive with a lion-hearted display against Port Pirates running out winners 32-24 in front of an emotional home crowd.

Grafton snapped a two-game losing streak running in six tries against a valiant Pirates outft.

After slow starts the two previous weeks,

Grafton came out of the blocks fring racing to a 17-0 lead thanks to enterprising play from their backs who had the crowd on the edge of their seats.

However, you sensed Port were not going to lie down as they reduced Grafton’s lead to 17-12.

With the game on a knife’s edge with 15-remaining on the clock the game threatened to boil over as both teams battled for

By Tim Howard

The curse of the close loss has hit the South Grafton Rebels again, going down 35-34 to Sawtell at McKittrick Park on Saturday.

The loss has put the Rebels, grand fnalists in 2023, out of fnals contention and battling to avoid the wooden spoon.

It’s the team’s fourth loss by four points or less this season, including a two-point loss to unbeaten competition leaders Nambucca. And most of their other losses have been in single fgures.

But Gordon laughed off suggestions his team was cursed.

“Lack of consistency with our goal kicking has cost us in most of those close ones,” he said.

“On Saturday we had a penalty near the end of the game from nearly in front and missed it.

“That would have won us the game.”

Gordon also lamented the lack of commitment from the team defending their line.

“You’ve also got to

ascendancy. However, tries to cult hero Sio Lavea and two try-hero Rami Bafeiniaiiraki put the game beyond doubt.

Redmen assistant coach Tony King was almost lost for words after the game.

“It was a special day for all of us,” an emotional King said after the game.

“It was certainly important we came away with the win. It

was pleasing to see us get off to a good start, but we need to address our discipline during the week…we gave away far too many penalties.”

As a nice touch to the win, Redmen frst grade coach Gary Powell, who is overseas, did not miss out on the victory.

“The boys face-timed Powelly on messenger which was great,” King said.

“Powelly was very thankful for the boy’s

effort on the feld on such an emotional time for him and his family.”

It was a day of high emotions at the Hay Street Rugby Fields on Saturday as players and supporters paid their respects to former club stalwart Warren Powell and former Redmen player Chris Jackson, who both sadly passed away recently.

You could not hear a pin drop as a minute’s silence was observed

before a lone piper played a stirring rendition of Amazing Grace and the Lament.

As the ground announcer struggled for words, the crowd, including many players and supporters from the past, bowed their heads in silence remembering two absolute champion blokes who touched the hearts of so many people in the rugby community.

remember we let 35 points in. That’s just not good enough and something we didn’t let happen in the last two seasons.”

Against Sawtell, the Rebels scored the frst two tries of the game, but failed to convert them.

“We were 8-0 or 10-nil up and if we’d kicked those goals it would have given us more of a

buffer, Gordon said.

The Panthers surged back with a couple of tries of their own and it set a pattern for the match.

“It was a real seesawing game,” Gordon said. “We got away again in the second half and they came back.”

He said a crucial refereeing decision which allowed a oneon-one strip of fullback

Keiron Johnson-Heron, as he was lying on the ground after appearing to be tackled gifted Sawtell possession and the chance to draw level.

“That sort of thing seems to have happened to us all season,” he said. “We’re not getting the rub of the green.”

But he though the team needed to pay more attention to its

discipline.

“That’s something we’ll have to look at in the off-season, the way we let decisions that went against us put us off our game,” Gordon said.

Gordon although out of contention, the remaining games of the season at home were a valuable opportunity for the team to salvage some pride.

“We’ve got the Ghosts at home on Sunday in the second local derby of the season so it won’t be hard to get the players up for that one,” he said.

And in their fnal game of the season the Rebels have a replay of the 2023 grand fnal, hosting the Woolgoolga Seahorses.

“A couple of wins in those games would be a good way to fnish the season,” Gordon said.

They are results that are not out of the question for the Rebels, who have been competitive in every game they’ve played.’

“Even though we’re down the table, no team has had any easy game against us,” Gordon said.

“There’s only been the odd game we haven’t been in right up to the fnal minute.”

Playing away against the competition leaders Nambucca, the Ghosts copped a 46-16 belting. Going down eight tries to three, the Ghosts have dropped to fourth on the ladder, equal on points with Woolgoolga.

Ghosts lock forward Adam Slater makes a charge into the Nambucca defence in their game on Saturday. Photo: Scott Morris Photography.

RIP Jacko and Wasa.

The Grafton Redmen and visitors the Port Pirates pay their respects to two Redmen rugby fgures Warren Powell and Chris Jackson who passed away recently. Photo: Gary Nichols.

The Grafton Redmen had to pull out all stops to beat the Port Pirates as the club celebrated Old Boys Day at the Hay St Rugby Fields. Photo: Gary Nichols.

Piper Scott Rhodes moved the Hay St crowd with stirring renditions of Amazing Grace and the Lament, as Grafton rugby bade farewell to two of their own, Warren Powell and Chris Jackson, who passed away recently. Photo: Gary Nichols.

LENNOX HEAD, NSW

(Tuesday, 9 July 2024):

The Skullcandy Oz Grom Open, presented by O’Neill, concluded with a dramatic fnal day featuring remarkable stories, high scores, local victories, and signifcant upsets in picturesque three-foot conditions.

2024 ISA World Junior Champion Dane Henry (Fingal Head, NSW) achieved a personal milestone by successfully executing a backfip during a heat. Already holding a strong score in the Pro Junior fnal, Henry landed a backfip on a three-foot righthander, earning a perfect 10-point

ride—the only perfect score of the event.

This impressive feat left fellow fnalist Ben Lorentson (Noosa, QLD) needing a combination of two scores exceeding 18.43 to catch up.

“It was a goal for me to make a backfip in competition,” Henry said. “I was talking with my coach Pete Duncan about wanting to attempt one if the section was right, and thankfully, the perfect section to do one turned up in the fnal. I knew I had to do something solid as Ben is such a good surfer and he’d been on fre all event. I am pretty stoked with the

By Tim Howard

Two-time South Grafton Cup winner Cepheus could make it a hat trick next year says part owner and former local Maree Anderson.

The South Grafton girl, who was Maree Gorrie when she left her home town for the Gold Coast about 30 years ago, said there was no reason why the seven-year-old who is trained by Matthew

Dunn at Murwillumbah, couldn’t make it three in a row.

“He’s just getting better and better at this distance,” Andersons said after Sunday’s momentous win.

Among the its syndicate of owners Anderson has established a bond with the horse.

“Not many of the owners go to his races,” she said. “I’m the only

results I’ve managed to get this year and I hope I can continue them in the next few events and make the WSL World Juniors early next year.”

New Zealand sisters Tayla and Stellar Green faced off in what seemed to be the frst of many fnals to come, competing against each other in the Pro Junior fnal. After a tense morning, the sisters exchanged a variety of solid turns throughout the heat. Ultimately, the elder sister, Tayla, emerged victorious with an 11.90 two-wave total.

“I had a bit of a sleepless night last night thinking that I had to get

the win over my little sister,” Tayla said. “I’m so stoked to get the win as I’m sure this fnal will be one that we will laugh about in the years to come. I knew we had a bit of a sprint back out the back for priority at one point and they gave it to Stella. When I said something to her out there, she just looked at me and gave me the bird (laughs).”

Local surfers Max McGillvray (Evans Head, NSW) and Leihani Zoric (Byron Bay, NSW) kept titles on the NSW north coast, winning the Under-16 Boys and Under-14 Girls divisions,

one of them who was here last year or this year.

“But I also go to visit him, because he’s close at Matt’s stables at Murwillumbah so I can see how he’s progressing.”

Through a rain-soaked 2024 Anderson was beginning to despair of his chances of repeating his stellar efforts of the previous year, where he was installed as favourite

for the $3 million Big Dance.

“He’s a horse that likes the frmer tracks,” she said. “Because of the state of the tracks through the frst half of the year, where it’s been really heavy, he’s done it tough.

“He’s had the heavy tracks and race meetings have been abandoned. It’s been a really disrupted campaign for him.”

respectively. Both surfers demonstrated intimate knowledge of the Lennox Head beach breaks to secure their victories. For McGillvray, this marks his second win at this prestigious event, while 2024 was Zoric’s frst victory after fnishing as the runner-up in 2022. All other age division results can be seen here. https://liveheats. com/events/248836

The iconic six-day event ran from 4 July – 9 July 2024 and comprised of a World Surf League (WSL) sanctioned Pro Junior Qualifying Series (JQS) event as well as an elite competition for

promising grommets in the 14, 16 and 18 year age divisions.

Former event competitors include a range of current and former World Championship Tour and Challenger Series surfers, such as Macy Callaghan, Molly Picklum, Mikey Wright, Ethan Ewing, Jack Robinson and local surfers Ocea Curtis and Nyxie Ryan. All event divisions will be broadcast live worldwide on skullcandyozgromopen. com.au

She said it had only been in the lead up races to the South Cup that she though he’d turned the corner.

“He ran fourth in the Tattersalls Mile in June with Blake Shinn riding him.

“That’s the frst time I felt confdent about him coming here.”

But Anderson’s interest in the 2024 July Carnival is not over as she has interest in this years

$75,000 Sir James Kirby Quality 1000m, race eight on Thursday.

The Terry Gollantrained Osamu has entered and Anderson said she liked its chances.

“We’ve had a bit of a campaign on for the Kirby,” she said. “He’s a good horse and I think this race might suit him.”

Part owner of South Grafton Cup winner Cepheus, Maree Anderson, leads him back past the grandstand after Sunday’s win. The former South Grafton woman has established a bond with the galloper, regularly travelling to Matt Dunn’s stable at Murwillumbah to check in on him.

Maree Anderson, a part owner of South Grafton Cup winner Cepheus, celebrates in the Winner’s Room at the Clarence River Jockey Club on Sunday.

EMOTIONAL WIN KEEPS REDMEN IN FINAL’S HUNT