Late nights and early mornings are expected across the Tweed over the next few weeks as the nation tunes in to watch our Olympians compete for gold at the 2024 Olympic Games. Representing Australia and the Tweed are six incredibly talented athletes: Chloe Covell (skateboarding), Jeff Dunne (breakdancing), Jack Robinson (surfng), Flynn Southam (swimming), Moesha Johnson (marathon swimming), and Jack McVeigh (basketball). Additionally, young Murwillumbah swimmer Isabella Rose Miller will represent the Solomon Islands in the pool.
Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry praised the athletes’ achievements.
“On behalf of the entire Tweed Shire, we are extremely proud of these athletes and will be cheering them on in their quest for Olympic glory,” Cr Cherry said. “They are continuing a proud legacy of Tweed athletes who have represented the country at the highest level, and we wish them every success.”
Tweed Athletes Set to Shine at 2024 Olympic Games
From cover
Meet the Athletes:
Chloe CovellSkateboarding
• Age: 14
• Event: Skateboarding
• Schedule: Competing under the Eiffel Tower at 1 am on Monday, 29 July (AEST)
• Achievements: Youngest competitor in the Australian Olympic team; joint winner of the Tweed Shire Australia Day 2022 Sporting Achievement of the Year Individual Award.
Jeff DunneBreakdancing
• Age: 16
• Event: Breakdancing (Olympic debut)
• Background: Year 10 student from Casuarina, has been breakdancing since age 7.
• Schedule: Competing under the Eiffel Tower.
Jack RobinsonSurfng
• Age: 26
• Event: Surfng
• Location: Tahiti’s Teahupo’o reef pass break
• Achievements: Winner of the 2023 Pipeline Pro in Hawaii.
Flynn SouthamSwimming
• Age: 19
• Event: Relay swimming
• Background: Former
Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School student; gold medalist in the Australian men’s freestyle relay team at the 2023 World Championships.
Moesha JohnsonMarathon Swimming
• Age: 26
• Event: Open water marathon swimming, individual 1500m swim
• Achievements: Gold medalist in the Australian mixed 4 x 1500m relay team at the 2024 World
Championships. Jack McVeighBasketball
• Age: 28
• Event: Basketball (Aussie Boomers)
• Background: Played with Tasmania JackJumpers in the Australian NBL; fnal preparations with the Boomers in Abu Dhabi.
Isabella Rose Miller - Swimming (Representing the Solomon Islands)
• Age: 16
• Event: 50m freestyle
• Background: Attends school and trains at the Tweed Regional Aquatic Centre.
Games Schedule and Viewing
The Paris 2024 Games offcially run from 26 July to 11 August (French time) or from 27 July to 12 August (Australian time). The Opening Ceremony is scheduled to start at 4.24 am (NSW time) on Saturday, 27 July.
For a complete schedule of events, visit www.olympics.com.au.
As these athletes prepare to compete on the world stage, the Tweed community stands proudly behind them. Their dedication and achievements serve as an inspiration to all, reinforcing the region’s rich sporting legacy. Best of luck to all our Olympians!
#TeamTweed
Council to fght new burials tax
TIM HOWARD
Clarence Valley ratepayers are paying the bill for a metropolitan shortage of burial plots that has forced a new burial tax to be levied across NSW, says mayor Peter Johnstone.
At the July meeting of Clarence Valley Council the mayor put up a mayoral minute calling for the government and Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper to reverse a decision which has already been included in the council’s fees and charges for the coming year.
“The government has imposed a cost of $156 per burial, $63 per ash interment and $41 for cremations across the whole of NSW,” Cr Johnstone said.
He said the motivation for the tax was a lack of land for burials in Sydney that had sent the cost of burials skyrocketing.
Cr Johnstone was also unsure how the government could set a
we as a council will be paying, but people in our community will be paying because we have to pass it on to them.”
He said other councils across regional NSW felt the same way and this mayoral minute had been compiled as part of an advocacy campaign against the decision.
The mayor said if the council passed his minute it would most likely be the frst to do so.
Former mayor Ian Tiley was an enthusiastic supporter.
cap on these costs.
“They’ve set up a regulator to try and control those costs,”he said.
“To me, it’s unclear how the regulator will be able to control those costs, because the land is limited.”
“But this regulator is not something that’s needed by our community, yet our community are being forced us to pay for this.
“It’s not something that
“I think it goes without saying that this council and councils across the state have large scale responsibilities and inadequate resources to properly maintain our cemeteries as they are,” he said.
He said during his time as mayor he was approached by a number of communities with complaints their cemeteries were under maintained.
Cr Tiley said didn’t see how this tax would
overcome this issue.
“This legislation probably won’t help that unless the extra funds are hypothecated to councils and to cemeteries maintenance,” he said.
Cr Tiley also brought up another issue.
“Some people pre-pay for their allotments and the council has no way, or will have no way, I suspect, of recovering the additional costs from those people who bought their plots years ago.”
Councillors voted unanimously to support the motion:
That Council: 1. note that the NSW Government has announced a new cost shift onto Council and our community, by imposing a new tax on burials, cremations and ash interments.
2. write to the NSW Premier and Minister for Lands and Property asking that they urgently reverse their decision to impose a new tax on all burials and cremations.
THE MURBAH PRESENTS FRIDAYS AT M-ARTS PRECINCT MURWILLUMBAH
Due to popular demand
The Murbah Presents Fridays at M Arts Precinct will continue to bring a little funky vibe to your weekend in Murwillumbah.
Who doesn’t like a little funky disco house? Well listen up people, The M-Arts precinct is continuing it’s efforts to support local performance artists this time with an exciting line up of Dj’s hosted by local promoter Sean Finlay on Friday nights.
After a successful month in June of bringing together a team of Dj’s including celebrated DJ Abel Toro from Mullumbimby and local DJ’s Vinnie and Nicholas Ching is sourcing more talented
DJS from Byron to Burleigh with Djs Jr Dynamite, Dave Carnovale, Wax Addicts, and DJ Ashton from Flo Records now on board to give you a place to kick off your weekends ... for Free.
Yes that’s right for no cost, you can enjoy these talents with some tasty pizzas from Fancies, an with an ice cold Earth beer off the tap or a cocktail from the M- Arts Bar Café
So if you miss the era when Murwillumbah was a hub of night time festivities and you enjoy music that has a sweet essence of soul and funk to it? Then head on in to M-Arts for their after work happy hour from 4 till 6pm to get your weekend started.”
Clarence Valley mayor Peter Johnstone has gained unanimous support from councillors for his mayoral minute opposing a new State Government tax on burials.
Door Knock Survey in Flood Zone Your story is important
Resilient Lismore Launches Community Survey with Red Cross, Social Futures, Uniting, and The Lismore Chaplaincy Network Resilient Lismore, in collaboration with Red Cross, Social Futures, Uniting, and The Lismore Chaplaincy Network, is conducting a community survey to gather data on how residents are coping after the 2022 foods. Teams will be knocking on doors in Lismore this week, encouraging those affected to participate.
Why Participate?
If your property was affected by the 2022 foods, your input is invaluable. The data collected will help us understand the community’s progress, inform recovery programs, and enhance food risk management. We also aim to ensure residents are aware of ongoing recovery support services. How to Complete the Survey
You can participate in several ways:
• In Person: Complete the survey when our team visits your home.
• By Phone: Call the Resilient Lismore Hub at 0455 218 692 to complete the survey over the phone.
• At the Hub: Visit us at 215 Keen St to fll out the survey in person.
• Online: Fill out the survey on your phone, tablet, or computer using this link https:// forms.monday.com/for ms/60c971868818f5a7 d61f7067c5e89ed0?r=u se1
• Ensure you select your address from the options provided when entering it. The online survey is open until midnight, 12th August 2024.
Please Note: The Resilient Lismore Hub will be closed today (Friday, 26th July) for door-knocking.
Our regular hours are Tuesday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm.
Thank you for adding your voice! The collected information will be shared with the government and other stakeholders to refect the community’s needs accurately. You can also scan the QR code to access the survey: Contact:
• Resilient Lismore Hub: 0455 218 692
• Address: 215 Keen St, Lismore
Your participation will signifcantly contribute to the ongoing recovery and resilience of our community. Thank you!
Honouring the service of our veterans –by Janelle Saffn MP Member for Lismore
I welcome the announcement that the NSW Government will extend retail trading restrictions to cover all of ANZAC Day to ensure the service of veterans is recognised and people are able to take part in services throughout the day.
Currently, retail traders such as supermarkets and fashion retailers are only required to stay closed until 1pm under the Retail Trading Act. From next year, the change will see them remain closed until midnight.
The restrictions do not apply to small businesses and business not considered retailers or with exemptions such as markets, cafes, chemists, newsagencies and takeaway restaurants.
As Premier Chris Minns said “It might be inconvenient for a few hours, but closing our biggest corporate shops for a single day is a small price to pay for living in a free and open democracy”.
NSW Fair Trading is warning consumers to beware of ‘dark patterns’ when shopping online.
Dark patterns are tactics websites or apps use to manipulate or trick you into spending more money than you’d planned or providing personal data that’s not needed.
These are some common dark patterns to look out for:
Hidden costs
Hidden costs are extra costs you only fnd out about towards the end
of your purchase, or which are made less obvious. They include pre-selected extras you may not want.
Some hidden costs are even sneakier, such as a pre-selected free trial period for a service that renews automatically if you don’t cancel before it ends.
Forced continuity
Forced continuity refers to subscriptions that are easy to sign up to, but hard to get out of.
You may only have to provide basic details to subscribe for a product or service, but to cancel you may need to go through multiple steps.
Trick questions
Trick questions are commonly used for subscriptions, autopurchase agreements and data collection.
For example, if you’re trying to cancel a subscription, you may be asked if you really want to cancel and given two options: ‘Continue’ or ‘Cancel’. This may be intentionally unclear, where ‘Continue’ means continuing the
cancellation process and ‘Cancel’ means stopping the cancellation process. You may think you’ve cancelled the subscription until you are charged another subscription fee.
Scarcity cues
Scarcity cues are designed to create a fear of missing out, which pushes you to make rushed decisions about buying or spending more than you planned. Examples are countdown timers for shopping carts or notifcations about low stock (e.g. ‘Only 4 left’).
Activity notifcations
Activity notifcations tell you what other people are doing on a website or app (e.g. ‘15 people are currently looking at this hotel room’). These notifcations will appear seconds apart and often be bundled with scarcity cues to create a sense of urgency.
Data grabs
A data grab is when businesses ask you for more information than they need to process your request.
Have you ever had to provide your full name and postcode when subscribing to a newsletter? Or had to provide your date of birth for a purchase? That’s a data grab and you should be concerned about what the business plans to do with your information and how securely are they storing it.
Disguised advertisements
Disguised advertisements are often ‘clickbait’—a sensationalised or misleading headline or link, designed to make you click through to online content. They are designed to look like genuine content or search results but will instead redirect you to a product or service.
These are just some of the ‘dark patterns’.
The NSW Fair Trading website has more information with helpful screen graphics of what to look out for.
In an Australian frst, the Clarence River Fisherman’s Cooperative will stock more than 10,000 Mulloway fngerlings into the Clarence River, with $10,000 funding support from the NSW Government as part of the White Spot Recovery Program.
On Friday 26 July, the Clarence River will receive a massive boost with Mulloway fngerlings produced by Searle Aquaculture, a Clarence aquaculture business that has been producing high quality marine and freshwater native fsh for decades.
This fsh re-stocking program initiated by the Clarence River Fisherman’s Cooperative represents one way the Cooperative supports its environment and community by helping to improve stocks of Mulloway in the Clarence River.
Clarence River Fisherman’s Cooperative chair Brad Dixon said
this program will help assist the Clarence Valley with its ongoing recovery from the impacts of white spot.
“The Clarence River community has continued to support the Clarence River Fisherman’s Cooperative and all the commercial fshers whose businesses have been signifcantly affected by the impacts of White Spot.
“Mulloway is an important commercial, recreational and Aboriginal fsh species. Mulloway are widely recognised for their excellent eating qualities, their status as one of the state’s most iconic sportfsh and their cultural signifcance to Aboriginal fshers.
“We couldn’t have done this without the ongoing support from the NSW Government. Their dedication to ensuring the recovery of the Clarence community has been a real highlight of the recovery program, and we look forward to
continuing to work with them into the future.
Yaegl Wadyarr Gargle Land and Sea Contractors Business Manager Grant Brown applauded the program saying “the initiative of Clarence River Fishermen’s Cooperative in driving the Mulloway restocking program as a great boost for the Clarence River and Mulloway stocks.
For the Aboriginal people Mulloway means ‘the greatest one’, demonstrating the signifcance of the species and representing the regeneration and health for Aboriginal people”.
Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said this stocking program was funded through the NSW Government’s $21.4 million White Spot recovery package, announced in June 2023.
“I applaud the Clarence River commercial fshers for their initiative in putting this stocking program together.
“It will deliver benefts to the community by improving fshing, conservation outcomes, employment and will have subsequent economic benefts to the broader Clarence region.
“This is a great example of an industry doing their part for the community, after being devastated by the detection of White Spot in the region in early 2023.”
For more information on the White Spot Recovery Program, please visit the NSW Government websitehttps://bit.ly/4d2RjOs
The planned release of Mulloway fngerlings will depart from the Yamba Boat ramp adjacent the Clarence River Fishermen’s Cooperative retail store at 15 Yamba Road Yamba at approximately 11am. Media opportunities are available from 11am Friday 26 July for those wishing to attend.
CLOSING SOON
Local heritage grants of up to $2,000 are available to assist owners and community trustees with the maintenance, repair, stabilization, and interpretation of heritage items, and contributory items in Heritage Conservation Areas, in rural areas of the Clarence Valley.
Applications close on Wednesday, 31 July. This year’s focus is on heritage items in rural areas.
Eligible Projects Projects typically funded include:
• Emergency Repairs: Stabilization and making buildings watertight pending longer-term restoration.
• Termite Control and Site Stabilization: Including stormwater and subsoil drainage.
• Re-roofng and Guttering: Using authentic materials and profles.
• Protection of Archaeological Sites: Including cemetery sites.
• Reinstatement of Missing Elements: Restoration to original details such as fences, verandas, timber windows, and decorative features.
• Removal of Unsympathetic Additions: Restoration to original
details.
• Repainting: Using a traditional heritage colour scheme.
• Building Code Australia Upgrades: Fire services, access, and other upgrades for ongoing and new uses.
Application Information
If you own or manage a heritage item in a rural area of the Clarence Valley, don’t miss this opportunity to secure funding for essential conservation work.
For more information and to apply, visit the Clarence Valley Council website.
Deadline
Application Deadline: Wednesday, 31 July 2024
Ensure your application is submitted on time to take advantage of this valuable support for preserving our heritage.
For more details, please contact the Heritage Assistance Grants program coordinator at Clarence Valley Council
TRUCK SHOW ENTERTAINMENT - “OUTBACK ROAD”
New
paths into
2025 around Ballina Airport, you may notice changes to flight paths in your local area
We would like your feedback on our preliminary design.
Left to right Glen Searle of Searle Aquaculture, Michael Weatherstone Searle Aquaculture, Grant Brown Yaegl Wadyarr Gargle Land and Sea Contractors ,Joshua Hippi Yaegl Wadyarr Gargle Land and Sea Contractors, Lawson Dixon, Brad Dixon Chairman of Clarence River Fishermen’s Cooperative, Brad Willis CRFC
Draft Clarence Valley Holiday Parks Plan of Management
Clarence Valley Council is preparing a comprehensive Plan of Management (PoM) for its holiday parks located at Iluka, Yamba, Minnie Water, and Wooli. This plan aims to provide strategic planning and governance for the effective management of these sites.
Objectives and Performance Targets
The PoM will outline specifc objectives and performance targets for community land. It will also address active land management and usage, including the issuance of tenures over the land occupied by the holiday parks.
Community Consultation
To ensure the plan meets the needs and expectations of all stakeholders, Council has engaged consultants ‘sala4D’ to conduct community consultations and prepare the draft PoM. Feedback from users, stakeholders, and the wider community is crucial for shaping the management objectives and strategies for these holiday parks.
Drop-in Consultation
Sessions
Council and sala4D will be hosting ‘drop-in’ community
consultation sessions at each of the holiday parks:
• Tuesday, 6 August:
o Iluka Riverside Holiday Park: 9.00 am – 12 noon, camp kitchen area
o Calypso Yamba Holiday Park: 2.00 pm – 5.00 pm, meeting room at the offce
• Wednesday, 7 August:
o Minnie Water Holiday Park: 9.00 am – 12 noon, camp kitchen area
o Wooli Holiday Park: 2.00 pm – 5.00 pm, camp kitchen area
Can’t Make It to a Drop-in Session?
Residents and visitors who cannot attend the drop-in sessions will have the opportunity to provide written submissions. A submission form will be available on Council’s Get Involved webpage. Stay tuned for more details next week!
Contact Information For further information, please contact:
• Dr. Danny Parkin, Senior Strategic Planner (Public Land/ Native Title)
• Phone: 6643 0231
• Email: danny. parkin@clarence.nsw. gov.au
This is your chance to shape the future management and development of Clarence Valley’s holiday parks. Your feedback and participation are highly valued!
TIM HOWARD
Tree replacement ignites councillors’ passions
Debate to ensure a landscaping condition on a Yamba development included seven trees of the right species and “local provenance” soaked up about 25% of the latest meeting of Clarence Valley Council.
A report recommending approval of a 14-dwelling sub division at 1 Mulgi St, Yamba, came under fre from some councillors.
The DA, which also attracted nine submission objecting to the proposal, had breached the council’s development control plan, but the staff submission said these breaches were minor and could be overlooked.
But some councillors did not share the staff view.
Cr Greg Clancy moved council should refuse the DA because of the number of DCP variations.
This approach riled Cr Karen Toms who quizzed Cr Clancy over the his claim of DCP variations and asked him to elaborate on his claim.
Cr Clancy said the noncompliances were listed in the council report, but his chief worry was allowing the removal of seven trees that belonged to an endangered ecological community.
He was also concerned that allowing removal of trees contributed to incremental losses to the environment.
“The impact on the environment is that we’re losing seven trees of very important local species which if they were part of an extensive community would be
part of the endangered ecological community of swamp open forest, of paperback and swamp oak,” he said.
“So the problem we have is that it’s death by 1000 cuts… it might only be seven trees, but they’re seven signifcant trees.
“And when I look at the landscaping plan, there’s a whole lot of what I would call weeds that are going to be planted in their place and that that is really a worry.”
In debate Cr Clancy said it was important that if the trees were to be replaced, they were replaced by locally grown trees.
He was also critical of what he described as a tendency for staff to overlook DCP noncompliance.
“When you start with a blank sheet of paper, and you’re an architect, you can you can ft it, design what you want to design within the rules of the council,” he said.
“Why can’t we? Why do we keep having these developments that are outside of the DCP requirements?
“I know legally, we can change that we can change. But there’s an expectation that we will every time, and I think we’ve got to get rid of that expectation.”
Cr Ian Tiley came up with a foreshadowed motion that council approve the DA, but not the aspects that did not comply with the DCP.
Cr Clancy’s speech fred up Cr Toms, who said the report to council had everything in it to support approval of the DA.
She read the summary of the report which outlined the involved of the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure.
“The development is subject to recommendations,” she said. “It’s consistent with the objectives of the applicable environmental planning instruments the development is considered to be an appropriate scale and form for the site and the character of the locality.
“The development has appropriate management and mitigation of impacts through conditions of consent.
“The proposed flling of the land will not result in any detrimental impacts on the foodplain or overland fows on neighbouring properties.
“The development subject to the recommended conditions will not result result in unacceptable adverse impact impacts upon the natural or built environments.”
She said council’s professional staff had qualifcations far beyond those of councillors when it came to planning matters and these needed to be respected.
But Cr Toms’ passionate defence went too far for Cr Clancy, who called a point of order.
He claimed Cr Toms went too far in asserting council staff primacy over councillors in decision making.
“We are councillors we have a responsibility to assess the information to make a decision,” he said.
“I think that that was I
just don’t think that was an appropriate comment about councillors. Thank you.”
Mayor Peter Johnstone overruled the point of order, and Cr Toms continued her attack.
“I agree that councillors have a responsibility,” she said. “Of course we have a responsibility.
“But we also have a responsibility to follow the laws and the legislation and the regulations.
“And we shouldn’t be able to just pull out of the air a couple of things like I’m not happy with a couple of trees being removed.”
The passions introduced into the debate began to bog down meeting process. Amendments followed by amendments to amendments started to fow.
Councillors were advised that suitable trees of the right species and size were not available.
Cr Clancy countered that trees of the right species and provenance (grown locally) were available at the Townsend Nursery.
Cr Clancy also argued the seven trees needed to be replace by 21 trees, because not all trees planted might survive.
At the end of more than 60 minutes of debate, the council arrived at a motion to approved the DA, but with a condition the seven trees to be removed be replaced with seven trees of local provenance.
The motion passed 8-1 with Cr Clancy against.
Lismore Welcomes Yamato Takada Students
Lismore City Council
warmly welcomed fve students from Yamato Takada last week, who will spend the next two weeks immersing themselves in the rich culture and attractions of Lismore as part of the Yamato Takada sister city exchange program.
This long-standing program, which resumed last year after a hiatus due to COVID-19, celebrates a cultural friendship dating back to 1963,
making it Australia’s longest-running sister city relationship.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg highlighted the signifcance of the program in strengthening the ties between the two cities and providing invaluable experiences for young people.
“It’s exciting to see our local students and their international peers building friendships and learning from one another. It’s a unique
opportunity for our young people, one that is not typically available in most regional cities,” Mayor Krieg said. “I hope the students enjoy everything that Lismore has to offer.”
The Yamato Takada students began their visit at the Council Chambers, where they enjoyed a morning tea with the General Manager, the Mayor, and members of the Sister City Advisory Group.
Over the next 14 days, the students and their chaperone will explore many of Lismore’s iconic attractions, including the Koala Care Centre, Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens, Rocky Creek Dam, Heritage Park, Nimbin, and local farms. The group will also visit Kadina High School to meet local students and experience school life in Australia.
Since the sister city relationship began, both
cities have developed mutual student exchange visits, cultural and educational activities, tourism opportunities, and exchanges between Mayors, Councillors, and community members.
The annual sister city student exchange program, which started in 1985, offers high school students from both cities an unforgettable immersion into the cultures, cuisines, and histories of both
countries. The visiting students will stay with local host families, fully experiencing Lismore’s way of life. In September, fve students from Lismore will visit Yamato Takada and stay with Japanese host families as part of the exchange.
If you see the students around Lismore, make sure to say hello and give them a warm Lismore welcome.
Police probe fatal ferry accident
TIM HOWARD
Police investigation are continuing to fnd out a fully laden cane truck fell from the back of the Bluff Point Ferry at Lawrence, resulting in the death of the driver.
The ferry service re-opened on Saturday after the incident on Thursday when the truck appeared to slip off the back of the ferry just after it left the Lawrence side of the river.
The truck fell into one of the deepest sections of the Clarence River, estimated to be 30m deep at that point.
A member of the public dived into the river and was able to haul the driver from the cabin of the truck and haul him onto the ferry.
Passengers administered CPR to the 67-year-old man until paramedics arrived, but they were unable to revive him and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The incident occurred around 10am on Thursday and the ferry service was out
of action while police divers and tow truck operators mounted an operation to haul the truck and its load from the river on Friday afternoon.
The Environment Protection Agency deployed booms and other devices to trap any pollutants that may have leaked from the vehicle.
A representative from the driver’s employer, SCT Logistics, Michael Fiteni, described the incident as a “freak accident” and gave his condolences to the man’s family and fellow workers.
He said the company would be conducting its own investigation into the incident.
In the meantime Mr Fiteni, the company’s chief fnancial offcer, has made assistance programs available to staff.
Police investigation were continuing to fnd the reason the truck ended up in the river.
Coffs Harbour crime manager Guy Flaherty on Thursday said it appeared the vehicle had been moving onto
the vessel when, for unknown reasons, the ferry became dislodged.
“The vehicle has rolled off the back of the ferry and become submerged, trapping the driver for a short period of time.
“A member of the public has risked his own life and entered the water and retrieved the driver, performed CPR, but unfortunately the driver, the 67-year-old, has lost his life.”
Detective Chief Inspector Flaherty said the driver had used the ferry “regularly” to transport sugar cane during the harvest season and was “aware of the area”.
He said the investigation would examine how the ferry shifted and the truck became dislodged, including reviewing CCTV footage of the incident.
Agencies including Transport for NSW, Safe Work, and marine engineers will participate in the investigation.
Councillors back James Creek objectors
TIM HOWARD
Clarence Valley councillors have joined the long list of objectors to a 290-dwelling subdivision at James Creek, near Yamba.
The development, which the Northern Regional Planning Panel knocked back last year, has been resubmitted and is due to go back to the NRPP later this month.
At its July 23 meeting the council resolved it would advise the NRPP councillors were not in favour of the development, although staff had submitted an assessment in favour of the development.
For the second time in three meetings councillors have voted to not recommend a development to the NRPP despite council staff assessing the development as suitable.
In May councillors voted to not support a DA for a 284-dwelling sub-division in West Yamba, which the council offcers assessed as suitable.
In June the NRPP voted 3-1 to refuse the development, valued at close to $46 million, in a decision labelled “historic” and “monumental”.
As was the case at the May meeting, council staff presented their assessment to the NRPP ahead of the council, drawing the ire of some.
Cr Steve Pickering said it “drove him crazy” when these DAs come to council to note when they’re being referred to the NRPP.
“It frustrates me that we have a lot of
information,” he said.
“I read through 94 submissions I looked through the petition signed by 265 members of the local community, all in opposition to this, all in opposition to the DA.”
Cr Pickering said the rules, which had the effect of turning council offcers into staff for the NRPP ahead of council was “most frustrating”.
“We don’t know what staff are going to recommend,” he said.
“Staff may recommend refusal, they may recommend approval.
“All of these items may have been resolved and they may not have been resolved. Who knows. We’ll fnd out in about three weeks.”
Cr Debrah Novak agreed with Cr Pickering but said an extraordinary meeting of council closer to the date of the NRPP meeting, when councillors were in receipt of the latest information, could be a solution.
“The staff will make their submission about seven days before the planning panel meets,”
Cr Novak said.
“And we are able as a council to hold an extraordinary meeting that will put a better case, a stronger case forward in a way to support our community, rather than making this on the run.”
She described any council resolution without access to this information as “a paper tiger”.
“This doesn’t have any teeth. This is like a paper tiger,” she said.
Cr Novak
foreshadowed a motion that council hold an extraordinary meeting prior to the planning panel meeting in August and Cr Karen Toms seconded it.
“Even if we all supported it, it’s still only a paper tiger because it doesn’t have the evidence behind it that the staff will have in their assessment to support these matters.”
But Cr Bill Day, who moved an amendment that council were not in favour of the development become a third point of the council resolution, said an extraordinary meeting was just another excuse to delay.
He said the NRPP had already refused this DA in 2023 and it was not council’s fault the process had to be repeated.
“We have to make this submission before council staff prepare their response,” he said.
“If some of the issues that are in the new motion to be brought to the attention of the NRPP will have been addressed by the applicant, I’m sure the NRPP are smart enough to ignore those specifc items.
“Let’s tell the NRPP that they got it right. And they should be even stronger with their refusal.”
Cr Greg Clancy agreed with Cr Day’s assessment.
“When there’s major community concern, it is a red fag and we do need to take a close look,” he said.
“This is the right decision for us to say continued next page
Bluff Point Ferry
that we’re not in favor of the development whether the planning panel gives a large score or not, but time will tell.
“These issues are important. They’re important to the local residents but they’re also important in the bigger picture of how the Clarence Valley functions.”
Cr Toms said she could not support a council resolution without accessing the information in the staff’s assessment of the DA.
“Cr Novak’s, right. It’s really a bit of a toothless tiger unless we’ve got an assessment,” she said.
She said it was wonderful the community could send deputations to the council meeting, but she said they were still subject to the planning rules that governed development in Australia.
“That’s why our planning staff and the planning department have Northern Rivers Planning Panels, with three ministerial appointees and two from
each council,” Cr Toms said.
“Again, that’s democracy. It’s the way it is. We mightn’t like the fact we don’t know until seven days before or whatever, but that’s the way it is. And we have to accept that.”
Councillors did not agree and voted 6-1 for the motion:
That Council:
1. note that a public determination meeting for Development Application
DA2023/0759 will be scheduled by the Northern Regional Planning Panel on the 20 or 21 August 2024; and 2. note that a resolution is required should Council wish to make a submission about DA2023/0759 to the Northern Regional Planning Panel.
3. advise the NRPP that we are not in favour of the development application on a number of grounds including;
- Inconsistency with rezoning assurances
- Insuffcient buffers and impacts on agricultural activities
- Increased density and urban design/irreversible over development
- Stormwater impacts
- Traffc and access to childcare centre
- Services and infrastructure
- Environment/ Biodiversity
- Lack of green space (less than 1%)0
- No play area for children
- Bio basins dangerous for children
- Single entry/exit for vehicles
- 300 vehicles per hours accessing site
- Non compliance with DCP
- Negative impacts on wildlife
- Suburban development/not village style
- No public transport to this site
Voting recorded as follows
For: Clancy, Day, Novak, Pickering, Smith, Whaites Against: Toms. Crs Ian Tiley and Peter Johnston who are on the NRPP, declared an interest and excused themselves from the chamber.
Exciting Lead-Up to Richmond Valley Council Elections
The lead-up to this year’s Richmond Valley Council elections is proving to be interesting with more than 20 contenders already declaring their intentions to run. Here are the candidates who have announced their candidacy so far:
1. John Walker, former Richmond Valley Council general manager, is running on a ticket with:
Stuart George Kylie O’Reilly
Scott Brereton
Annabelle Toohey 2. Robert Hayes, currently a councillor, is running on a ticket with:
Debbie McGillan (councillor)
Tracey Knox
Neale Genge
Daniel Simpson (former councillor)
Rachel Arthur 3. Lyndall Murray is running on a ticket with:
Bianca Rayner
Kylie Maunder
Samuel Allis
Nathan Scully
Hanabeth Luke 4. Mayor Robert Mustow is running on a ticket with current councillors:
Steve Morrissey
Sandra Humphrys
Sam Cornish
Stay tuned to The Northern Rivers Times for updates on the September 14th election and the latest developments.
Oils ain’t oils but this is a good one.
SAMANTHA ELLEY
Ken Ellis knows about liquor and now he is delving into the world of a fnely made coffee.
His store Liquor Legends, located at 426 Ballina Road, Lismore doubles as a general store now with a coffee van.
“We had originally opened between 10am and 10pm with the general store and liquor sales,” said Ken.
“But we got feedback that the general store needed to be opened earlier.
“We are in a prime spot, where people can drive in and drive out and we discussed doing a drive through coffee.”
A popup van in the forecourt of the property was the solution and as a nod to the previous business, Shell, who ran it as a petrol station, it is known as the Good Oil coffee cart.
“We are just pouring a different type of liquid,” laughed Ken.
“We are now doing coffees, toasties and selling bread, milk and juices direct from the van, from 7am Monday to Saturday.”
Ken is a long, black coffee lover himself, so he knows the blend he has picked, is a good one.
“I have mates in Sydney who own a coffee roastery called Three Pence Roasters and I went to them for advice when setting up the van,” he said.
“They ended up helping me so much,
I decided to sell their coffee blend Dark Carnival through the van.”
With two new baristas, Phoenix Holloway and Niki Edwards, feedback so far has been positive, but Ken puts that down to the frst 500 coffees being free.
“That will run out pretty soon,” he said.
“What really surprised me was, with our Byron Bay cookies, the numbers of those being sold went up.
“I guess people expect to pay for their coffee and when it is free, they decide to buy something to go with it.”
There are plans in the pipeline to expand their food offerings with a food van on Thursday and Friday nights as well.
“It could be a great little mix, where you
grab dinner and a bottle of wine from the store on the way home,” said Ken.
Ken doesn’t stop there as he’d like to test out a loyalty coffee card where a drinker could earn points to redeem a bottle of wine and he’d also like to include the community fund-raising idea.
“When we frst opened the store, we did a fundraiser barbeque for the Byron Wildlife hospital,” he said.
“They came and cooked a barbeque on the Saturday afternoon, and we provided the sausages and bread while they got the proceeds.
“Our hope again is to fnd more community groups to fundraise for their cause and to get a bit more connected to community.”
Coffee van with barista Niki Edwards
Boxing legend celebrates beginning of Olympics
SAMANTHA ELLEY
It was 60 years ago that Kyogle man, Athol McQueen, was an athlete at the Tokyo Olympics, where he faced off with Smokin’ Joe Frazier in the boxing ring and knocked him to the canvas in the frst round of a quarter-fnal.
Now, as the 2024 Paris
Olympics have begun, Athol and his wife Gloria, were on hand at Kyogle Public School last week to inject that special excitement for the games into the next generation.
“It was a big day,” said Athol.
“There would have been about 300 kids, as they got all the local preschools to come
and visit, as well as the primary kids.”
Athol said each school paraded, dressed in the colours and costumes of a country they wanted to represent for the Olympics.
“I got an Olympics fag and my torch from the 2000 games, when I ran with it through Kyogle,” he said.
“The young ones ran with the torch in the crowd.”
Athol and Gloria both spoke to the students about sport and the meaning of the Olympic rings and their colours.
“I spoke about being at the Olympics and how good it was,” said Athol.
“And even to realise the Olympics in Brisbane are only eight years away.”
And that bout with Joe Frazier?
Sadly, Athol didn’t walk away with a medal, but he carries the unique title of being the frst to foor the legendary Joe Frazier.
Auxiliary AGM Summary and Upcoming Events
The Auxiliary held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on July 16, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to our members, invited guests, other Auxiliaries in our region, and the organizations that contribute to our efforts for their attendance. During the meeting, our Regional Representative, Jenny McKellar, presented badges of offce to our incoming Executive and Committee members, as well as service awards to our long-serving members.
New Executive Offce Bearers:
• President: Lexi Stacey
• Vice Presidents: Glenda Phillips and Janice Guymer
• Secretary: Chris Penn
• Treasurer: Jenny Williams
Service Awards:
• Helen Mathews: 10 years of service
• Narelle O’Donnell: 15 years of service
• Lexi Stacey: 20 years of service
We are proud to announce that Narelle O’Donnell was bestowed with Internal Life Membership in recognition of her prolifc and ongoing service, which includes holding multiple Executive positions and her tireless fundraising efforts.
Financial Report and Contributions: This year’s fnancial report highlights that we raised over $65,000 and purchased more than $90,000 worth of equipment for our hospital. The items acquired include:
• Skin Graft Machine for Theatre
• C-MAX Incubator
• Automatic Lifter for Rehabilitation
• Chronos Machine for Renal
• Ice Machine for Emergency Department
• Blanket Warmer for Emergency Department
• Two Tilt-in-Space Wheelchairs for Rehabilitation and General Ward
• Four Patient Chairs
We extend special thanks to our attending guests, especially our Director of Nursing, Mel Allan-Male; our Mayor, Sharon Cadwallader; and our Patron, Jenny Ellenbroek, who has graciously agreed to continue as our Patron for the upcoming year.
Recent Events:
On Sunday, July 28, President Lexi Stacey and Treasurer Jenny Williams attended the donation presentation from the Rabbit Trappers bowling group at Cherry St Bowling Club. We were honoured to receive a generous donation of $2,500 from the Rabbit Trappers. Our President expressed our gratitude and provided an overview of our activities over the past year.
Upcoming Meeting:
Our next meeting will be held on August 20, 2024, at 1:30 PM in the solarium at Ballina Hospital. All are most welcome to attend.
Athol McQueenl.
Ballina Auxiliary Patron Jenny Ellenbroek, President Lexi Stavey, DON Mel Allan-Male, Mayor Sharon Cadwallader, Secretary Chris Penn, Treasurer Jenny Williams, UHA
One last July Carnival for racing legend
MICHAEL BEATTIE
It is with great sadness that I advise of the sudden passing of former Grafton horse trainer Darryl Taylor.
Darryl had enjoyed the camaraderie of many of his old mates in the last couple of weeks at the recent July racing carnival and to me it seems a ftting way for DT as he was affectionately known to have spent his fnal few days.
Many would not be aware, but DT was actually one of my bosses in the horse racing industry in the very early 1970s, with DT picking me up in his Toyota land cruiser heading to the stables to do boxes before dropping me back home in time to get ready for school.
Looking back on those formative years I am not sure, given the quality of the team he had in work, it was worth either of our efforts, but such is the love of the racing game and the racehorse.
As a trainer Darryl’s
success in the industry took a dramatic rise when in the early 1980s he was essentially the number one trainer for two of the biggest players in the local racing industry.
Both Ross Paine and Bill Edgerton had selected DT to prepare their horses.
There is no doubt that with their support that DT had much better cattle to play with. My recollection is that Wholesale Boom and Vain Top were both way better than average, but without a doubt the star of the show was Riverdale, which, under the care and guidance of DT as a three-year-old, won the 1984 Grafton Cup.
It was a day to remember for DT when he was the toast of the town. I am sure he never forgot that day.
However nothing stays the same forever and not long after the Grafton Cup victory both owners elected to move their sizeable teams to be trained closer to the city prizemoney.
Riverdale went on to be one of the best mile to 10 furlong horses of his era. In very quick succession he won the 1984 Epsom 1600m and the 1984 Ampol 1600m. He also went on to win a Gosford Cup 2100m and a Warwick Stakes 1600m.
DT could be justifably proud of the huge part he played in that horse’s development.
I never discussed the matter with him, but I have no doubt it was a bitter pill to swallow.
The halcyon days of the early 1980s never returned for DT, but he pushed on with a few bush horses until he fnally retired from race horse training just after the July Carnival in 2000.
DT was awarded life membership of the CRJC for his contribution to racing in Grafton, which was announced at a major function during the July Carnival of 2015, where many of his oldest mates were present to share in his glory.
Although no longer
Study on the Experiences of Men, Women, and LGBTIQA+ Individuals in Australian Disasters
Gender and Disaster
Australia is conducting a comprehensive study to include perspectives from women and LGBTQIA+ individuals who have experienced disasters in Australia. This study aims to document how disasters affect different genders, infuence survivor experiences, and explore opportunities for improving emergency response strategies.
Participants will be invited to participate in
a one-hour interview, which can be conducted via Zoom at a convenient time or in person if the location permits. Each participant will receive a $100 gift certifcate as a token of appreciation for their time and insights. The interview will be audio recorded, and participants will have the opportunity to review and amend their transcripts before fnalizing the research report.
Your participation
training DT was a great supporter of Grafton racing and always held court throughout the July Carnivals over the years in DT’s corner in the members bar.
It is not lost on me the signifcance the July Carnival held for DT: 1984 the Grafton Cup, 2000 retiring from training, 2015 CRJC Life membership and now 2024 retiring from life. DT was larger than life. He was loved by many but he will be remembered by many many more.
I cannot recall ever hearing a bad word uttered about DT over the last 52 years and in this game it is a pretty strong endorsement of the man.
I have to admit however having a few bad thoughts about him on some very cold mornings as he sat in his land cruiser blowing the horn waiting for me to appear for work and head to Lazy Lodge.
RIP DT your legacy will live on for many years to come.
could signifcantly contribute to our understanding of disaster resilience and help shape future emergency response strategies.
If you would like to be involved in the study, please contact Loriana Bethune, Research and Innovation Manager at Gender and Disaster Australia, at l.bethune@ gadaustralia.com. For more information, visit genderanddisaster.com. au.
Diary of a Flood Survivor
It was 5.19pm on Friday afternoon and I was in the middle of folding clothes and watching my favourite afternoon game show, when suddenly the lights went out. They wouldn’t come back on for another seven hours, thanks to
That same excitement didn’t extend to social media, however, as a number of people were caught out, without any backup lighting or way to cook dinner.
The local bowling club, thanks to their generator, had a queue a mile long as people
a damaged transformer on the LismoreWoodburn road.
As the night closed in, there were no lights to be seen anywhere, except for those who had solar-powered fairy lights and the tell-tale ficker of many candles. I had just been about to cook some supper for a group of teenagers at the local youth group, so they ended up with packets of chips and Cheezels instead. No complaints there.
In fact, despite the blackout, the kids were keen to still come to the group and played board games by lamp light and, of course, that old favourite, Murder in the Dark.
There were lots of screaming and laughter and one munchkin mentioned it was way better than just sitting at home in the dark.
decided to get Chinese if they couldn’t cook. It reminded me of what it was like straight after the food, when no one could live in their homes and all of Woodburn was in total darkness.
At least this time, there were tiny signs of life thanks to the candles and torches people were using.
We sat on our back deck with a drink and couple of candles, after our Bowlo Chinese and chatted.
With all the scented candles we were able to muster, our house smelt like a perfumery.
After everyone went to bed, there was a bit of a shock for some as, shortly after 12am, the electricity came back on, as did all the lights and blaring televisions. Little steps
Darryl Taylor, right, with Bede Murray, left and Merv Corliss. Taylor, an important fgure in the Northern River racing history, died last week after enjoying one last Grafton July Racing carnival.
Boxers score big across the ditch
SAMANTHA ELLEY
It would be a weekend to remember for the small contingent of Northern Rivers boxers who few to New Zealand to compete in the Kangaroos vs Kiwis boxing tournament.
Organised by Australian Boxing Council (ABC) and Peach Boxing from Auckland, New Zealand, it was held at the ABA stadium.
“It felt so spiritual to fght there,” said boxing coach and owner of Maddog Boxing, Scott Smith.
“As you walked down the tunnel, the walls were lined with
Northern Rivers Councils Secure Over $160 Million in Disaster Road Repair Funding
$296 million into councils’ bank accounts in the last three months alone. With $3.3 billion allocated over the next four years for natural disaster road recovery funding, we will be rolling out funding faster than ever before. Regional communities will now be able to rebuild roads and restore vital transport links more quickly thanks to the collaborative efforts of councils, Transport for NSW, and the NSW Reconstruction Authority.”
old photos of the best New Zealand warriors who had fought there throughout its history.
The vibe must have been inspirational as the Australian team walked
treated to a traditional private Maori feast.
Results:
“There were large paintings of Muhammad Ali in our change room, so the vibe was at an all time high through the team.”
away with fve gold medals and two silvers.
The contest was fought over two nights in the 120-year-old boxing stadium and the Australian team were
The NSW and Federal Labor governments have allocated more than $160 million to fve Northern Rivers councils for repairing roads and transport infrastructure damaged during natural disasters. This signifcant funding boost is part of a pioneering pilot funding agreement with the NSW Reconstruction Authority and Transport for NSW, designed to streamline the distribution of disaster recovery funds. Previously, councils faced signifcant fnancial strain, having to fnance infrastructure repairs upfront and wait for reimbursement from other levels of government. The new Tripartite Agreements allow councils to access advance funding at the onset of each reconstruction phase, reducing fnancial pressure, speeding up road repairs, and enhancing collaboration between government agencies.
Funding Allocation:
• Lismore City Council: $54.1 million
• Tweed Shire Council: $29.6 million
• Byron Shire Council: $15.7 million
Sunny McLean - gold
Calven Mukerji - gold
Matt Hoskins - gold
Stasia Pitman - gold
Sasia Werahiko - gold
Elijah Bell - silver
Jarod Keeble - silver
Alstonville Man Celebrates $950,000
An Alstonville resident is preparing for a series of dream holidays after winning nearly a million dollars in the Saturday Lotto draw. The northern New South Wales man held one of the 21 division one winning entries in Saturday Lotto draw 4489 on July 27, 2024. Each division one winning entry received $952,380.96.
The ecstatic winner, whose 50-game QuickPick entry was purchased at Alstonville Newsagency, Shop 2, 79-83 Main Street, Alstonville, expressed his disbelief and joy upon confrmation of his prize.
Saturday
“Woohoo! This is life-changing – just life-changing. I’m so excited. I can’t tell you how excited I am. It’s unbelievable! Thank you, thank you! This is such good news for a Sunday morning. You’ve made my year! I’m going to pay off the mortgage, and there will defnitely be a holiday or two. Fiji is sounding good right now!” he exclaimed.
Ray and Maree Smith, owners of Alstonville Newsagency, shared their excitement about selling another division one winning ticket.
“It feels fantastic to know that one of our customers is going
Lotto Win
to experience such exhilaration,” Ray said.
“We last sold a division one winning entry in August 2022. In fact, 2022 was a great year for us as we also sold a 1st Prize in both Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot and Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot. Congratulations to our winner, and enjoy the win. I am sure it is well deserved, and it is a lifechanging experience.”
The winning numbers in Saturday Lotto draw 4489 on July 27, 2024, were 4, 37, 45, 27, 11, and 20, with supplementary numbers 15 and 10.
Across Australia, there
were 21 division one winning entries in the draw: eight in Victoria, fve in New South Wales, four in Queensland, and two each in South Australia and Western Australia.
The Lott’s division one winning tally has reached 252 so far in 2024, including 81 won by NSW Lotteries customers. In 2023, Saturday Lotto created 176 millionaires across Australia, with 303 division one winning entries collectively winning more than $436 million.
• Richmond Valley Council: $10.4 million
• Clarence Valley Council: $50.6 million Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib highlighted the success of the agreements: “The Tripartite Agreements are a great example of government working with communities to develop new solutions that improve disaster response. We are committed to building on the success of these agreements and rolling out more support to help communities rebuild faster after disasters.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads
Jenny Aitchison emphasized the need for timely access to disaster road recovery funding. “For too long, councils have struggled to get timely access to disaster road recovery funding, so the new Tripartite Agreements were introduced to speed up the process. The Tripartite Agreements have been a huge success, with Transport for NSW delivering
Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn noted the impact of the agreements: “The Tripartite Agreement pilot is a major advance in disaster recovery, paving the way to better procedural preparedness. As Parliamentary Secretary, I interact closely with most of these councils, so I know what a difference it is making and will continue to make. I commend the NSW Reconstruction Authority and Transport for NSW for leading this new way of rebuilding roads and transport infrastructure.”
Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot emphasized the importance of these agreements for ongoing disaster recovery: “This funding agreement between Federal, State, and local governments under the Tripartite arrangements is vital to our continued disaster recovery response on the North Coast.
Funding from our Tripartite Agreement allows local councils to access advanced funding faster at the earliest phase of reconstruction projects. This will mean faster road repairs for our communities on the North Coast. I congratulate Tweed, Byron, and other North Coast councils in securing this funding.”
The Tripartite Agreements mark a signifcant improvement in the disaster recovery process, ensuring that communities in the Northern Rivers region can rebuild and recover more effciently and effectively.
The team that travelled to New Zealand
Sunny Maclean with coach Scott Smith
Nimbin Rainbow Road Walking Track: July 2024 Update
The construction of the Nimbin Rainbow Road Walking Track is progressing well, with a recent onsite meeting between the project Steering Group and Council highlighting the signifcant advancements made. The Steering Group, which includes key Nimbin community groups and stakeholders, expressed their excitement at seeing the vision coming to life, with completion scheduled for late 2024.
Key Developments:
• Site Inspection: The inspection allowed the group to review park furniture, wayfnding signage, planting, and landscaping. Decisions were made regarding the future of existing structures along the track, with a preference for plantings over turfng.
• Revegetation Opportunities: A meeting between the
bush regenerator and the Nimbin Community Centre will take place later this month to identify areas for revegetation and landscaping.
• Artwork and Signage: Designs for wayfnding signage have been fnalized, and an upcoming workshop will engage key stakeholders to discuss artwork and wording for the signage.
• Public Amenities:
Proposals for additional shade, seating, fencing, and improved accessibility will be considered based on quotations and budget. Council extends its gratitude to the Nimbin Community, Community Centre, Nimbin Chamber of Commerce, and private landowners for their support throughout the construction.
This project is fully funded under the NSW and Federal Government Bushfre Local
Economies Fund.
Project Background
The Nimbin Rainbow Road Walking Track aims to provide a 750m long concrete and boardwalk track for the active community of Nimbin and its visitors.
The project includes:
• Concrete pathways
• Lighting
• Interpretive and
wayfnding signage
• Artwork
• Small bridges over the nearby creek system
• Park furniture
• Native plantings
The total budget of $2.5 million is fully funded under the Bushfre Local Economic Recovery Package, co-funded by the Australian and NSW governments.
Community Involvement
Council has consulted with property owners and key community members, incorporating their thoughts and aspirations into the concept design. The project is designed to serve the Nimbin community and attract tourists.
Concept Design Highlights
• Private Property: The majority of the walk will be on private property, with pedestrians having a right of footway.
• Maintenance: The track will be maintained by Lismore City Council.
• Interpretation
Signage: To be discussed in the coming months, potentially focusing on the Nimbin locality, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage, and the Aquarius Festival of 1973.
• Preferred Route:
The track will provide
a preferred pedestrian route from Alternative Way to and from the CBD.
• Artwork Project: Future artwork projects will involve local artists.
• Creek Line Flora: Additional improvements will be made with weed control and native plantings.
The Nimbin Rainbow Road Walking Track is shaping up to be a signifcant asset for the community, providing a beautiful and functional space for both residents and visitors. The continued support and collaboration among all stakeholders are key to the project’s success, promising a vibrant and enriching addition to Nimbin’s landscape. For more information and updates, visit the Council’s website at lismore.nsw.gov.au.
Design Concept Released for Build-to-Rent Development in East Lismore
The Minns Government, focused on boosting housing supply, has announced a $30 million commitment to develop a build-to-rent pilot in the Northern Rivers. Landcom has released plans for 50 well-designed, climateresilient, and sustainable apartments in East Lismore for community and stakeholder feedback.
Project Details:
• Location: Corner of Crawford Road at 138-146 Military Road, East Lismore.
• Purpose: Deliver secure rental housing in a region affected by rising rents and low housing availability.
• Affordability: 20% of the apartments will be affordable rental housing for low and moderateincome households, including essential workers.
• Amenities: Close to shops, schools, Southern Cross University, open space, and other community infrastructure.
• Design Features:
o Not food prone.
o Maximizes solar access and cross ventilation.
o Includes private off-street parking, outdoor communal spaces, subtropical plants, and views of bushland in the east.
Timeline:
• Design and Planning: Ongoing, with the development application to be lodged with Lismore City Council in the coming months.
• Construction:
Expected to begin in 2025.
• Completion: Residents expected to move in by 2026.
Community
Engagement: Locals are invited to provide feedback on the draft design concept by completing Landcom’s online survey by Wednesday, 7 August 2024. Additionally, a community information and feedback session will be held on Thursday, 1 August 2024, at East Lismore Bowling Club
from 5 pm to 8 pm. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information and to complete the online survey, visit https://www.joinin. landcom.nsw.gov.au/ eastlismorebtr
Quotes
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully: “Regional NSW has not been immune from housing pressures. Through this buildto-rent pilot project, residents will have access to well-located,
well-designed, and well-built homes. This project will help boost the supply of muchneeded rental stock while providing greater housing security and stable rents. The buildto-rent project continues the NSW Government’s efforts to support food recovery in the Northern Rivers.”
Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn: “There is an essential need for more homes across regional NSW, and locals in Lismore were
already struggling before the foods in 2022, with around 40% of local rental households experiencing rental stress. I advocated strongly for this buildto-rent project, which will provide secure and affordable rental options for the Lismore community. It’s good to see Landcom seeking to help local renters while planning to deliver housing in tune with the local environment.”
Landcom CEO, Alex Wendler: “Beyond boosting housing supply and tackling the housing crisis, we aim for a high-quality, attractive development that is climate-resilient and sustainable. Community feedback is crucial in our planning process, and I encourage locals to have their say about our plans.”
This initiative aims to address the urgent need for rental housing in East Lismore, ensuring a sustainable and community-focused development for the future.
Nimbin Rainbow Road Walking Track
National Indigenous Disaster Resilience Gathering
The National Indigenous Disaster Resilience (NIDR)
Gathering will be a multi-day, immersive event dedicated to showcasing Indigenous leadership and excellence in disaster resilience, emergency management, community recovery, and Caring for Country.
Event Overview
This unique gathering will convene representatives from various sectors, including:
• Disaster resilience and emergency management
• Government bodies
• Researchers and academics
• Non-government organizations
• Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organizations
• Indigenous ranger groups
• Native Title groups
• Land and water management organizations
The aim is to build awareness, share knowledge, connect diverse groups, and foster an Indigenousled conversation on disaster resilience.
Key Features of the Gathering
Over the course of three days, attendees will have the opportunity to:
• Attend Keynote Addresses: Hear from leading voices in Indigenous disaster resilience and emergency management.
• Participate in Panel Discussions: Engage with experts and community leaders on various topics related to disaster resilience and recovery.
• Join Workshops:
Gain practical skills and insights through interactive sessions.
• Experience On Country Activities: Optional activities that offer hands-on learning and connection to the land.
Purpose and Goals
The NIDR Gathering aims to:
• Highlight Indigenous Leadership: Showcase the vital role of Indigenous communities in disaster resilience and emergency management.
• Foster Knowledge Exchange: Create a platform for sharing best practices and innovative approaches to disaster resilience.
• Build Connections: Strengthen networks among Indigenous and non-Indigenous stakeholders.
• Promote Indigenous-Led Conversations: Ensure that Indigenous voices and perspectives are central to discussions on disaster resilience and community recovery. Join Us Be part of this groundbreaking event to learn, share, and collaborate on enhancing disaster resilience within Indigenous communities and beyond. Your participation will contribute to a stronger, more resilient future for all. For more information and to register, please visit our website NIDR Gathering https:// events.humanitix.com/ nidr-gathering-2024
We look forward to seeing you there!
Northern Rivers Rail Trail delivering economic benefts for the Tweed
The Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT) has signifcantly exceeded expectations, providing a substantial boost to the Tweed economy in its frst year of operation. An independent Economic Impact Assessment Report by Muller Enterprise, commissioned by Tweed Shire Council and the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation, highlights the substantial benefts the Rail Trail has brought to the region since its opening on 1 March 2023.
Key Findings from the Report:
• Visitor Spending: The Tweed section has seen a 15.7% average increase in monthly visitor spending compared to the previous year, with unique visitors up by 23% and visitor transactions by 19%.
• Economic Impact: The total value of visitor spending increased by $3.717 million compared to the previous year, surpassing the forecasted boost of $2.45 million.
• Long-Term Projections: The local economy is projected to receive an additional $114.3 million in visitor expenditure over the 30-year term of the rail corridor lease, a 54% increase over initial estimates.
Economic and Community Benefts:
• Business Growth: Businesses along the trail, particularly in Murwillumbah and the hinterland villages, have reported increased visibility, foot traffc, and higher revenues.
• Visitor Services: More than 165,000 users have visited the Tweed section, with 80% of visitors utilizing local services such as cafés, restaurants, bike hires, and shuttle services.
• Community Engagement: The Rail Trail has provided opportunities for accessible recreation, fostering physical connection and social activity within the community.
Mayor of Tweed Shire
Chris Cherry expressed her satisfaction with the report’s fndings.
“We always knew the Rail Trail would draw tourists, but it has far exceeded expectations. It’s boosting our economy and highlights how recreational and naturebased infrastructure can stimulate regional economies,” Cr Cherry said.
Rebecca Whan, President of Business Murwillumbah, echoed this sentiment. “Though only in its fedgling years, the boost to
business and in turn, the local community has already been enormous. Previously quiet, undervisited villages have become vibrant hubs once again,” Ms Whan said.
Cameron Arnold OAM, Vice President of Northern Rivers Rail Trail Inc, shared his excitement about the report’s outcomes.
“To exceed the original outlook by 54% after only being in operation for over a year, sends a very clear message that this is a project that brings incredible value to its community, locally, regionally, and as a State signifcant asset,” Mr Arnold said.
Addressing Challenges and Opportunities:
The report also identifed some challenges and opportunities, including shifts in the competitive landscape, inadequate parking in some areas, and the need for more trail amenities.
Encouraging businesses to leverage the NRRT Business Connect Program and adapt their offerings to cater to diverse trail user preferences can help maximize benefts and tackle these challenges.
Future Prospects:
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is set to be a
132 km shared recreation and nature trail, spanning from Casino through Lismore and Byron, and connecting with the Tweed in partnership with four councils. It has recently earned Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award, ranking it in the top 10% of attractions worldwide. Businesses are encouraged to join the Business Connect Program to access resources, marketing support, and collaborate with other stakeholders. For more information, visit northernriversrailtrail. com.au.
Read the full Muller Enterprise report here: tweed.nsw.gov.au/ northern-rivers-railtrail.
Acknowledgment: This report was commissioned with joint funding from the NSW Government and Regional NSW.
Conclusion: The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has proven to be a signifcant asset, boosting the local economy and providing extensive recreational opportunities. With continued support and development, it is poised to bring even greater benefts to the region in the years to come.
Rebecca Whan, Mayor Chris Cherry and Cameron Arnold OAM welcome independent fndings the Rail Trail injected more than $3.7 million into the Tweed economy in its frst year of operation.
NEWCASTLE PERMANENT MATHS COMPETITION RETURNS TO NORTHERN RIVERS FOR 44TH YEAR WITH FRESH LEADERSHIP
This year, hundreds of school students from across the Northern Rivers will put their maths skills to the test in the iconic Newcastle Permanent Primary School Mathematics Competition.
Starting on Monday 29 July, classrooms across the Northern Rivers are set to transform into vibrant maths hubs, buzzing with the excitement of Year 5 and 6 students eager to demonstrate their skills throughout the week.
Among last year’s Northern Rivers region winners were Max Coorey from Grafton Public School, Zarco Cooke from Alstonville Public School, Rocco Pearson from Caniaba Public School and Divit Grover from Sathya Sai Primary School.
This year also heralds the arrival of a new director, Zak Nicholls, poised to bring fresh enthusiasm to the renowned event.
“It’s an honour to take on the stewardship of this long-standing competition,” Mr Nicholls said.
“Maths is fascinating because it’s a part of everything we do. This year, our questionnaire is taking a leap into the world of modern, real-life mathematics.
Careers in engineering and advanced technology felds are on the rise, and a strong foundation in mathematics is an excellent starting point for budding young minds.
“Most importantly, the Newcastle Permanent Mathematics Competition is all about giving it a go – even if you don’t get all the questions right.
“My favourite thing about being a maths tutor is witnessing that ‘lightbulb’ moment when students grasp a concept. So for primary school
“As a kid, I participated in maths competitions myself, and it ignited my passion for the subject, even if I didn’t solve every problem perfectly back then.
kids, this competition is about learning, improving and hopefully having a few of those lightbulb moments!”
With 45 minutes on the clock, students will tackle 35 challenging questions. The problems, inspired by real-life scenarios like measuring ingredients for a recipe or balancing a household budget, ensure practical maths skills are in play.
In keeping with tradition, the competition remains steadfast in its rules – no calculators and no rulers.
Paul Juergens, Chief Distribution Offcer of Newcastle Permanent, expressed his pride for the long-standing legacy of the competition.
“For many students across the Northern Rivers, the Newcastle Permanent Primary Mathematics Competition is a family tradition,
with parents and even grandparents having taken part,” said Mr Juergens.
“Maths is integral to everyday life, from balancing a budget to time management. These are essential skills for kids to master, and this competition provides a fun and challenging way to hone those abilities.
“For over 40 years, this event has been a platform for young minds to excel and fnd joy in mathematics. The problem-solving skills they develop here will serve them well in all areas of life – and we look forward to seeing the impact of this initiative continue for generations to come.
“I’m also pleased to welcome Zak into his new role as the competition’s director. It’s a title with some serious history and
prestige behind it, and a role of which he can be tremendously proud. We can’t wait to see his frst paper!”
The competition is one of Australia’s largest and longest-running primary school mathematics contest, giving kids a unique opportunity to shine.
Since the competition began in 1981, it has seen over half a million participants, becoming a beloved tradition in NSW primary schools.
Newcastle Permanent proudly presents a range of awards and prizes to winners and high performing students and schools across the state.
Maths competition numbers
• Last year saw more than 20,000 students across New South Wales participate.
Question examples
• Over half a million students have registered to participate since the Competition’s inception in 1981.
• How much would Alice be paid for delivering 400 pamphlets if she is paid 6 cents per pamphlet?
• A: Alice would be paid $24.00 for delivering her pamphlets.
• Jasmin spent 3/5 of $30.00. How much is left? A: After spending 3/5 of $30.00, Jasmin has $12 left.
• The marked price for a big is $1,250. What would the bike cost if a 20% discount is given?
A: The cost of the $1,250 bike after a 20% discount would be $1,000.
• A paddock on a farm is a rectangle 1.2km long and 200m wide. What is the area of the paddock?
A: A rectangle paddock that is 1.2km long, and 200m wide has an area of 24ha.
The 2024 competition will run from Monday 29 July to Friday 2 August. Students or schools interested in signing up can register at newcastlepermanent. com.au/community/ primary-mathscompetition.
Parliamentary Inquiry Recommends Funding for Wildlife Veterinary Services in NSW
A Parliamentary Inquiry into the veterinary workforce shortage has recommended that the New South Wales government provide dedicated, ongoing funding for veterinary services for wildlife.
The inquiry highlighted the unsustainable nature of the current system, which requires veterinarians to treat injured wildlife without adequate compensation.
Committee Chair Mark Banasiak expressed deep concern over the poor mental health and burnout experienced by veterinarians. “The committee was very concerned to learn of the poor mental health and burnout experienced by veterinarians,” Mr.
Banasiak said.
The report’s primary recommendation is for the NSW Government to fund wildlife veterinary services, which includes support for wildlife rescue organisations, existing wildlife hospitals, expanding wildlife units at other hospitals, and contributing to private veterinary practices for their costs.
Deputy Chair Emma Hurst emphasized the unsustainability of relying on charities to cover wildlife care costs, especially during natural disasters. “Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital is an important case study in the report, demonstrating the value of all-species wildlife
hospitals providing expert, dedicated care for injured wildlife, with demonstrably effective results in relieving suffering and recovering native animals, including many threatened species,” Ms. Hurst said.
“It is inappropriate for veterinarians and vet nurses to have to provide these services in the public interest without recompense, when this is a state government responsibility. The time for relying on small business owners or charities to cover the expense for wildlife care is over, and state governments must start taking accountability.”
Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital Chief Executive Stephen Van Mil
welcomed the fndings and recommendations.
“Along with our peers in the veterinary and wildlife care sectors, the strain placed on veterinarians from long hours, high expectations, exposure to suffering, and reliance on donations and volunteering is taking a huge toll,” Dr. Van Mil said.
The report’s recommendations align with the 2023 Independent Review of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016, which suggested funding accredited wildlife hospitals for their services. Dr. Van Mil highlighted the crucial role of wildlife veterinarians in
providing a signifcant public good. “We work with wildlife rescue organisations and other wildlife hospitals across NSW, and offer a ready solution to halt the loss of native species through effective veterinary treatment for injuries and illness,” he said.
“Native animals face numerous threats, from being hit by cars, attacked by feral pests and domestic pets, habitat loss, disease, and natural disasters. There is growing community concern about species extinction, and this report makes it clear that wildlife veterinarians provide a signifcant public good.”
Dr. Van Mil expressed optimism about
participating in the state-wide consultation announced by the NSW Government earlier this year to improve wildlife rehabilitation and care.
“We welcome this report and look forward to participating in state-wide consultation announced by the NSW Government earlier this year to improve wildlife rehabilitation and care.”
The inquiry’s recommendations are seen as a critical step towards ensuring sustainable and effective care for wildlife, relieving veterinarians from the fnancial and emotional burdens currently placed upon them.
2024 Winners Group
Chief Distribution Offcer Paul Juergens
Pets Domain and SavourLife Partnership to Help Local Rescue Groups
It’s heartbreaking that many pets are being surrendered due to rising cost-of-living pressures. Rescue groups and shelters that take on these pets are overwhelmed and often under-resourced.
The partnership between two Australian, family-owned businesses couldn’t come at a better time to try and reduce the pressures on rescue groups and shelters.
SavourLife manufactures top-quality Australian dog food and treats. Their mission is to reduce the number of adoptable dogs euthanised in Australia to zero. They do this by donating 50% of their profts to volunteer-run rescue groups that save and rehome abandoned dogs. Not only do they donate half of their profts, but in 2019, they launched the Adopt-A-Dog website, which connects resourcestrapped vetted rescue groups with people looking to adopt a rescue dog.
Pets Domain has its roots in regional Australia. Its CEO started selling fsh from his parents’ garage as a teenager in Northern Tasmania.
Pets Domain now has 71 pet specialty stores around the country, and
over 80% of its stores are based in regional Australia. The stores focus on embedding themselves into the local community by partnering with rescue groups and shelters. Donations are made regularly, and all profts from selling Pets Domain reusable carry bags go to the partnered rescue group or shelter.
From August through October, Pets Domain and SavourLife will join forces to raise funds and food donations directly for rescue groups.
A Rescue Challenge will occur nationally across Pets Domain stores in August and September. Five rescue groups will beneft from the sale of SavourLife products. The goal is to raise $25,000, which will be shared between these rescue groups. Michael McTeigue, Founder and Managing Director, SavourLife, says “You can fnd over 2,700 dogs up for adoption on our Adopt-A-Dog platform. With pet surrenders increasing, rescues are facing immense pressure; we have seen the average number of dogs listed for adoption increase by 25% over the last 12 months, while adoption enquiries are slowing.
We are thrilled to partner with Pets Domain to donate
essential funds to our rescue partners, helping them save and rehome more dogs. We hope that by connecting customers with their local rescue groups, we can inspire those considering adding a pet to their family to adopt a rescue dog and save a life.”
The partnership will culminate with the Adopt-A-Dog Day at Pets Domain event on Saturday, the 5th of October, from 10 am-2 pm. Pets Domain’s local rescue groups will be instore, raising awareness and funds for their group. For each bag of SavourLife dog dry food sold, SavourLife will donate the equivalent bag of dog dry food to the rescue group. “We’re encouraging locals to come out and support these initiatives to raise desperately needed funds and resources for these hard-working rescue groups. Plus, your dog will love SavourLife’s tasty and nutritious food and treats”, says Stacey Tweedale, Marketing Manager at Pets Domain. At the end of October, the amount raised and donated will be made public on Pets Domain and SavourLife’s Facebook and Instagram pages and websites.
Bernie, 1st dog wash customer
Community Invited to Dog Park Opening Celebration
Ballina Shire Council is delighted to invite the community to celebrate the opening of the new dog off-leash park on Gap Road, Alstonville. Dog owners and their furry friends are welcome to join the festivities on Saturday, 10 August 2024, from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm, and enjoy the new agility park.
“We are inviting local residents to come along and test out the new agility equipment, chat with our friendly rangers, learn dog training tips from a local dog trainer, try out the agility equipment, and grab a free coffee and a puppuccino treat,” said Kerri Watts, Manager of Public and Environmental Health.
Ms. Watts expressed her enthusiasm for the new park and the upcoming event. “This new dog off-leash area
will be a dedicated space for our community’s dogs to play and socialise safely. This event is a wonderful opportunity for residents to explore the park’s new features and engage with our local rangers.”
Event Highlights
Community members attending this doggy day out can look forward to:
• Meeting Our Friendly Rangers: Learn more about their important work in our community.
• Dog Training Tips: Enjoy a free mini-session with a professional dog trainer offering advice for better training and behaviour management.
• Agility Equipment: Try out the new agility
equipment, designed to challenge and entertain dogs of all sizes and skill levels.
• Free Desexing Vouchers: Support responsible pet ownership in our community.
• Complimentary Refreshments: Treat yourself to a free coffee and your dog to a
puppuccino.
“We’ve designed this event to be fun and informative for both dogs and their owners. It’s a great way to foster a sense of community and promote responsible pet care,” added Watts.
Event Details
• Date: Saturday, 10 August 2024
• Time: 9:30 am - 12:00
DA SIGNALS FIRST STEP IN CONSTRUCTION WORKS FOR $263.8 MILLION GRAFTON BASE HOSPITAL REDEVELOPMENT
A development application submitted to the Northern Regional Planning panel seeking approval for alterations to existing buildings within the old Grafton Correctional Centre site signals the frst step in construction works for the redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital, according to Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson.
Mr Williamson said part of the former gaol is in the late stages of being acquired by NSW Health Infrastructure from Property NSW for hospital use so the $263.8 million hospital redevelopment can proceed.
“The site is ideally
located opposite the hospital and will be repurposed to house the administration arm of the hospital,” Mr Williamson said.
“This is the frst of the consent required to make way for the major redevelopment of the hospital.
“It involves refurbishment of the former correctional facility to provide administrative, offce and training support in addition to minor information and communication technology works proposed at the main hospital site.
“These ‘enabling works’, expected to cost around $13.5 million,
are an exciting frst step in the construction of a new and improved hospital for Grafton and the wider community.
“The community is eager to see this project come out of the ground, as am I, and this important step provides further certainty it is going to happen.
“The planning and design stages take the longest, but they are critical in ensuring the redevelopment is tailored to suit the community’s unique needs.
“As the redevelopment will take place on the existing hospital sites, it is essential that works are staged to not compromise the
day-to-day operations of the staff and clinicians in providing patient care.”
“It will be all systems go once we get through the extensive planning and design process.”
Mr Williamson said the hospital redevelopment will include fve operating theatres, a new medical ward, a new emergency department and short stay unit, plus a new imaging department with a state-of-the-art MRI.
The State Budget handed down on 18 June locked in the redevelopment with forward planning expenditure showing a 2028 completion date.
pm
• Location: Gap Road Dog Park, Alstonville
This project was proudly funded by the NSW Government in association with Ballina Shire Council. The new dog exercise area is also a direct action from the Council’s endorsed Companion Animals Management Plan, which aims to create a safe, healthy, and supportive environment for both animals and the community.
For more information about dog off-leash areas and to read the management plan, visit the Council’s website at ballina.nsw.gov.au/ exercising-your-dog.
Mark your calendars and join us for a morning of fun, learning, and community spirit at Alstonville’s new dog park!
Work starting on the Bangalow Flood Study
Council has engaged a consultant to start work on the Bangalow Flood Study, which will investigate how and where foods impact the town and nearby areas.
Bangalow, while not as food prone as some other parts of the Byron Shire, is fanked by Byron Creek, which is food-prone during signifcant rain events.
The food study will be a technical analysis of food behaviour, with the information to be used for a range of things including food risk management and land-use planning for existing and future development.
The study will also be available to government agencies, emergency services as well as the community to help guide decisions on food risk.
Katie Hughes, Project Engineer, said information from Bangalow residents will provide important and useful data to inform the study.
“The foods in 2022 were unlike anything experienced before and
people will remember where it fooded and how deep it was and we would like them to share this information with us,” Ms Hughes said.
“We also want to hear from residents about their local food knowledge such as how fast did the water rise, did it move across your property differently or was fooding caused by heavy rain, the creek or stormwater drainage?
“We are hoping that people may also have photos they are able to share to visually support the technical work the consultant will be doing,” Ms Hughes said.
A survey is on the Your Say page of Council’s website and people can upload their photos as part of their submission.
The survey closes on 15 September 2024.
“All information provided will be confdential so I am really hoping Bangalow residents will be able to help us out with this important project,” Ms Hughes said.
Richie Williamson outside Grafton Base Hospital
on just about anything”
‘Mum, whaddya cooking. Whatever you’ve been taking out of the frypan and placing on a platter look like elephant dung pizzas, and they smell as I imagine they might smell. What on earth are they?’ Crikey. (it’s ‘Leemo Cat’ speaking to ‘Mum Jane’) She burst into tears, said rude words & then sat on the oor. OMG? A box of tissues, & cup of tea & a Bex Powder later she regained a small semblance of composure; in between pathetic sni es, she told me she was, for the rst time ever, cooking ‘Corned Beef Fritters’ like her Mum Connie used to make but they were nothing, in either taste nor form, like Connie’s. Oh dear, I ‘spose I could sympathise with Mum but I frankly feel her behaviour was rather over-the-top about something so inane. Corned Beef Fritters? YUK! What a distasteful thought; she needn’t think she can feed those dung-like things to either me or the birdies. No way! (I’ll warn the them. don’t eat elephant dung pizzas birdies!) In an attempt to bring cheer & joy into the scenario I asked ‘So Mum, what’s for dinner then?’ (Oooh, bad move Leems, VERY bad move.) e drama started again, followed by a weeping confession that her Mum Connie was an excellent cook & ‘Mum Jane’ was attempting to emulate Connie’s yummy Corned Beef Fritters with a recipe from “Flo’s 900 page Cookbook of Life” (which also includes tips on MUCH OTHER STUFF: Dandru ; Garlic Breath; Tired Feet; Yellow Toenails; Bicycle Tyre
punctures; How to meet a Good Husband; Snake Bites etc.) I was aware by now Flo’s recipe didn’t work, well, not with the Fritters! As a simple feline, I was kinda at a loss in how to rectify this idiotic ‘human’ scenario. Hmmm? Ponder? Aha, I know!! ‘Mum, tell me about other ni y things from your childhood (thinking, ‘apart from poxy fritters). ank the Lord, she looked curious & spoke. ‘How kind of you to ask Leems, you can be a truly caring Cat at times.’ (eye roll from myself!) ‘Well, Leems, I also miss Connie’s Boiled Christmas Puddings with threepences in it; And her Braised Steak, & her Lemon Sago …I raised a paw and yelled STOP! What about things EXCLUDING FOOD Mum?’ Well, that got a reaction I’m pleased to say. She pondered. ‘Yep, Leems, I do miss other things; like books I had as a child. One was ‘ e Little Green Road to Fairyland’ and the other was ‘Clancy the Courageous Cow’ and they’ve both gone astray somewhere over the years; they are very hard to nd. SO Leems, if anyone has an old copy of those books they don’t want any more could they let the paper you write for know. Another thing I miss Leems, is being able to ‘swap clothes’ with my sisters. Gone are the days of loaning my Purple & Lime Green Strappy mini dress to one of them. Her feet were bigger than mine so she couldn’t borrow my lime-green platforms. Or buying (1/2 & 1/2) a pair of blue velvet platforms with another sister. We had a bit of a debacle one night ‘cos she wanted to wear them, but so did I. It didn’t end well. We didn’t go out ‘cos Connie told us & we were going nowhere due to our ill mannered ghting. I have no one to swap clothes with anymore. Crikey, Mum Jane obviously had a di cult childhood.
(NOT!) I shall now go out to my front resting bench, in the sun with blankies for so ness, & ponder the strangeness of human behaviours. Bye for now with purrsies. Leemo.
Tasting Togetherness: Whiddon’s Resident Cooking Club Is Back On The Menu
The Whiddon Cooking Club is set to rekindle connections in kitchens across the not-for-proft provider’s 22 residential care homes, making a return after a three-year hiatus. Proving there is nothing sweeter than the bonds formed over shared culinary experiences, awardwinning care provider Whiddon has proudly relaunched its successful Cooking Club initiative.
Residents from each of Whiddon’s 22 residential aged care (RAC) homes will gather fortnightly to create and enjoy delicious home-cooked family recipes.
Starting in July and running through June 2025, the program will feature twelve months of beloved recipes drawn from the intergenerational family
cookbooks of Whiddon residents. Each month will spotlight one sweet and one savory dish, shared by residents and compiled into the Whiddon Cooking Club’s very own recipe book.
As these cherished dishes come to life, residents are encouraged to share their culinary heritage, embrace social connections, and showcase their cooking skills with support from Whiddon’s chefs and wellbeing team.
The Cooking Club is part of Whiddon’s broader creative ageing initiatives, designed to enhance the health and well-being of residents through creative expression. This program also aligns with Whiddon’s care philosophy, which places relationships at
the heart of great care.
First launched in September 2020 across eight Whiddon homes, the Cooking Club enjoyed a joyful 10-month run before the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated its pause in 2021. Now, Whiddon is ready to serve up the reimagined Cooking Club, much to the delight of residents and staff alike.
“We know food holds a special place in the hearts and memories of our residents,” said Whiddon Chief Customer Experience Offcer Michael Monteleone. “There is immense joy in the connection that comes from creating and enjoying meals together. That’s why it was so important for us to bring this program back to residents across all our
residential care homes. We enjoy seeing our residents show our chefs a thing or two.”
The Whiddon Cooking Club will kick off in July with recipes from Vida of Whiddon Easton Park and Edna from Whiddon Casino. Vida will share her hearty Slovenian Goulash recipe, passed down by her stepmother and a family favorite for decades. Meanwhile, Edna will bring a crowd-pleaser to the table with her delicious Anzac Slice for dessert. With the relaunch of the Cooking Club, Whiddon is once again fostering a sense of community and celebrating the rich culinary traditions of its residents, one recipe at a time.
Lismore Transit Centre Undergoes Accessibility Upgrade
Construction has commenced on a new accessible toilet and change facility at the Lismore Transit Centre, underscoring Lismore City Council’s dedication to enhancing the accessibility of public amenities.
Mayor Steve Krieg highlighted the Council’s commitment to providing highquality facilities for the community, especially for the estimated 3,000 local residents living with a disability.
“In Lismore, 7.1% of our population requires assistance with daily activities due
to disability,” Mayor Krieg stated. “This equates to potentially 3,000 individuals in our community who will now have access to an appropriate, accessible public change facility in the CBD.”
The Council secured $244,725 from the NSW
Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund for the Lismore Transit Centre Changing Places Facility upgrade.
“By incorporating a changing place in the CBD, we can better meet the needs of all community members, enabling people with
disabilities and their carers to spend more time in town, enjoying dining, shopping, accessing services, and socialising,”
Mayor Krieg added.
“The Transit Centre is an ideal location for an accessible toilet, benefting those using bus services in and around Lismore, as well as regional travellers.”
Council’s commitment to providing supportive infrastructure ensures that Lismore remains a desirable place to live, an easy place to work, and a welcoming place to visit.
“Leemo has views
MUM JANE’S REMINISCING & STUFF
Lismore Transit Centre before the February 2022 natural disaster.
Queensland and New South Wales set to battle it out for the 2024 IXOM Water of Origin title
Fraser Coast Regional Council QLD and Rous County Council NSW compete for the best tasting tap water
Queensland and New South Wales will go head-to-head next week in the annual 2024 IXOM Water of Origin competition.
Winners of the Queensland and New South Wales best tasting tap water competitions will compete for the title on the Sunshine Coast on Wednesday, 24 July. The event will be held at the Queensland Water Industry Operations Conference and Exhibition, which is run by the Water Industry Operations Association (WIOA).
Fraser Coast Regional Council with a sample from the Burgowan plant is representing Queensland and Rous County Council with a sample from the Nightcap plant is representing New South Wales.
The award for the Water of Origin will be judged and presented at the WIOA Conference, which will feature 110 exhibiting companies and attract an estimated
800 attendees. The Water of Origin winner will have bragging rights over the other state for the next 12 months. The competition has been running for 10 years and the current score is seven to three in favour of Queensland. Will New South Wales close the gap with a win in 2024?
The annual IXOM Water of Origin competition is a fun and exciting way to raise awareness of the quality of drinking water in both Queensland and New South Wales, and to recognise the efforts of local water service providers in delivering valuable water services
to their communities.
Water samples are subjected to a blind taste test and rated according to the Water Tasting Wheel, which outlines some of the attributes that water professionals use when judging water such as colour, clarity, odour and taste. Think ‘wine tasting’ without
needing to spit out the samples and you won’t be far wrong.
“The competition celebrates the individuals and organisations that strive hard, some in very trying circumstances, to ensure their communities are supplied with safe drinking water every day,” said Dean Barnett,
Chief Executive Offcer of WIOA. “We want to draw people’s attention to the great work that is going on behind the scenes in their local communities to help shape and secure Australia’s water future.”
Mr Barnett also acknowledged IXOM’s support of the Water of Origin competition.
“Thanks to IXOM’s unwavering commitment to the industry, we continue to be able to run the competition.”
“IXOM is proud to be the sponsor of the prestigious 2024 IXOM Water of Origin competition,” said Bryce Wolfe, IXOM Chief Executive Offcer. “IXOM is a leading supplier of water treatment chemicals to the water sector. We’ve been a proud local manufacturer for more than a century, supplying chemicals to water treatment plants all over Australia to help ensure everyone has access to safe, clean and greattasting drinking water.”
Mid-Century Modernist landmark is revitalised in multi-million-dollar transformation on Tweed Coast
A historic landmark and signifcant piece of mid-century modernist heritage has been revitalised in an extensive $6.5 million refurbishment project, more than 50 years after its original construction.
For decades, the Captain Cook Memorial and Lighthouse at Point Danger in Tweed Heads has been an integral part of the region’s architecture and proudly marks the border between New South Wales and Queensland.
Led by the Tweed Shire Council, with support from the NSW Government, and the City of Gold Coast, and re-imagined by award-winning Queensland architecture practice, Fulton Trotter Architects, the six-year revitalisation project sees extensive upgrades
to the site.
In an offcial public unveiling of the structure, Fulton Trotter Architects Director, Katerina Dracopoulos said the design focus for the project was on embracing the original modernist elements, with contemporary interventions.
“The Captain Cook Memorial Lighthouse at Point Danger is a remarkable piece of Mid- Century architecture, so it was important we retained this rich history within the new design,” said Ms Dracopoulos.
“The contemporary intervention pays homage to the original modernist design, retaining two simple elements: four vertical pillars and a horizontal podium. This design approach maintained
the visual gravitas of the original monument, while at the same time, contemporising the building’s utility.”
“The Captain Cook Memorial and Lighthouse has stood as a frm landmark for many generations, attracting locals and tourists, as well as housing the Marine Rescue NSW services within its base, and it’s been a pleasure working with the team on this project,” she said.
Additions to the site include a new café, ablution facilities, accessibility ramp and a refreshed Marine Rescue NSW facility on the lower podium level, sheltered from the main street level.
In a statement, Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry said the building will continue
to be celebrated for generations to come.
“The lighthouse at Point Danger stands as an iconic marker to warn of the dangers around the coastline and as the border between NSW and Queensland,” Cr Cherry said.
“We are grateful to the NSW Government and City of Gold Coast for their generous support in co-funding this upgrade and for the way we have been able to all work together to get a result for our border community.”
“It is important we preserve this heritage site for the safety of mariners and to make it more accessible for all to use and enjoy the spectacular views. It is exciting to see this project completed and the lighthouse ready to stand the test of time
for decades to come. We thank everyone who worked on this project to deliver this crucial facility,” Cr Cherry said.
The original architect, Les Nyerges was one of the City of Gold Coast’s frst staff architects.
Les included a replica capstan from cast iron ballast reclaimed from the HMS Endeavour which remains in the new design.
Experienced architect and director, Katerina Dracopoulos said she hopes many will fnd surprise and delight in the structure with refreshing panoramic views and areas of refuge.
“A lower podium level was added under the original structure, and though it’s not immediately apparent, it is revealed as one draws
closer to the building. From there, the space opens up to panoramic views of the coastline and Pacifc Ocean along an open terrace,” she said.
Working in a team of expert architects, Fulton Trotter Architects brought the vision to life in collaboration with landscape architect Duncan Gibbs, structural and civil engineers Cozens Regan Group, mechanical and electrical engineers from EMF Griffths, hydraulics by Compass Consulting, builder Multi Span Australia and building certifer Formiga 1.
To fnd out more visit fultontrotter.com.au or call (07) 3291 1511.
Ballina Library Receives $198,376 for Major Facility Enhancements
Pillars of
the Earth
Author: Ken Follett
Price: $23
Publisher: Pan Macmillan
UK
By Samantha Elley
A while ago I reviewed the sequel to The Pillars of the Earth, called World without End.
Nothing like doing things out of order as Pillars is the frst in the Kingsbridge series and tells the story of Philip, prior of Kingsbridge, a fctional town in England in the 12th century.
Philip is a devout and resourceful monk and has a burning desire to build the greatest Gothic cathedral in the world.
He teams up with Tom, the mason, who becomes his architect and who is struggling with his beliefs.
There is also the
Ballina Council is excited to announce that it has been awarded $198,376 to upgrade Ballina Library facilities. This funding, part of the State Government’s $6 million Public Library Infrastructure Grant program, aims to transform the library into a more welcoming and versatile community space.
The Ballina Library has long been a cornerstone of our
community, offering essential services and programs that foster learning, creativity, and connection. With this new funding, the library will enhance its facilities to better meet the evolving needs of the community. The front counter will be updated, and new fooring and shelving installed.
“We are incredibly grateful for this generous grant, which will help us to better serve the Ballina
community,” said Ballina Mayor Sharon Cadwallader “This funding will allow us to create a more welcoming, inclusive, and resource-rich environment for everyone who walks through our doors.”
State Librarian Dr. Caroline Butler-Bowdon praised the NSW State Government initiative, stating, “Public libraries are welcoming to everyone and are such important free spaces,
providing services that nourish education, literacy, culture, and recreation.”
The Public Library Infrastructure Grants program is administered by the State Library of NSW on behalf of the Library Council of NSW. This program underscores the government’s commitment to supporting public libraries as vital community hubs.
beautiful Lady Aliena who has a secret shame she cannot shake.
This sets the scene for the struggle between good and evil and the tension that goes with that, all set around the building of the cathedral and the lives involved.
Ken Follett was always a reader and after his studies, became a journalist.
His frst book Eye of the Needle was a wartime spy drama which became an international best seller, selling over 10 million copies.
He then went on to write The Pillars of the Earth, the beginning of the Kingsbridge series, and followed this with the Century trilogy.
He lives in England with his wife.
You can order your copy from all good book stores or go online to www.amazon. com.au
A win as amenities blocks restored at Mullumbimby Recreation Grounds
The amenities blocks at the Mullumbimby Recreation Grounds have now been restored, after they were damaged in the foods in 2022.
The project team has been busy cleaning and repairing them since November last year and have fnished the project ahead of schedule. They were due to be fnished by this December.
“The restoration of the amenities blocks is a great win for local sporting associations and clubs, such as the netball and cricket club, as well as users of the Mullumbimby skate park and local schools,” said Byron Shire Mayor Michael Lyon.
“I thank the project team involved for completing this project ahead of schedule, and the community for their
patience, while the toilets and change rooms were being worked on. “We also thank the NSW Government for providing some of the funding, for us to make the blocks ft for purpose again,” Mr Lyon said.
The project worth $790,000 was partly funded by Council’s Public Toilets renewal budget ($418,000), and partly funded by the
NSW Government’s Sport Priority Needs Program ($372,000).
NSW Government funded the change room transformation into a unisex accessible public and community sport facility, and Council funded renewal of the adjacent public amenities building.
Acting NSW Offce of Sport Chief Executive, Adam Berry said projects
like these highlight the NSW Government’s commitment to getting communities who have suffered signifcant damage to critical infrastructure back to sport and recreation activities. “This transformation of the change room facilities has breathed new life into the Mullumbimby Recreation Grounds and I thank the Byron Shire Council for their collaboration on this important project.
“Having accessible local sport and community infrastructure plays a critical role in keeping communities healthy, active and connected.” The Mullumbimby Recreation Ground Car Park was also recently upgraded thanks to funding from the NSW Government.
Deserving Clubs win Ampol IRB Hull Giveaway
Evans Head-Casino SLSC and Batemans Bay SLSC have today been named the winners of Ampol’s Infatable Rescue Boat (IRB) Hull giveaway in 2024. The Evans Head-Casino SLSC IRB was on proud display today at Surf Life Saving Australia’s SHARKSKIN IRB National Championships, taking over Miami beach from 18-21 July. This is the third time the Ampol IRB Competition has run since Ampol’s sponsorship of Surf Life Saving Australia began in 2020. Over 620 responses were received, highlighting the need for clubs to receive this critical piece of equipment.
IRBs are used by surf lifesavers to save lives around the country and were involved in 949 rescues last year. The IRB allows for multiple volunteer surf lifesavers
to quickly attend to a rescue in challenging conditions, allowing one of the crew to enter the water to retrieve patients and make a rapid return to shore. The lifesaving capabilities of the IRB were on full display today as the SHARKSKIN IRB Championships Masters and Under 23s competition raced on. The SHARKSKIN IRB Championships have attracted over 816 competitors from 42 surf clubs who will compete across three categories: U23s, Masters and Opens, concluding Sunday 21st July.
Evans Head-Casino SLSC were nominated for the Ampol IRB Hull Giveaway by a number of volunteer patrolling members who helped with rescue efforts during the 2022 foods. The club’s IRBs were critical in the rescue efforts as food waters
reached unprecedented heights. The IRB allowed the club to navigate through the water which devastated up to 95% of the households in Woodburn area, 10km from Evans Heads. The IRB’s capability allowed it to manoeuvre and land on roofs and rescue up to 100 people from their homes.
The other winning club was Batemans Bay Surf Life Saving Club, based on the Far South Coast of NSW covering 82 beaches and over 72kms of water. With a visitor population that hits 60,000 visitors over the summer period, the club will use the IRB to protect holiday goers and the community long into the future.
Michael Pontefract, Club Captain from Evans Head-Casino SLSC says the IRB will make a huge difference to the club.
“Evans Head-Casino
Surf Life Saving Club are so thankful for Ampol’s support of Surf Life Saving Australia and clubs all around Australia. We are privileged to be one of the recipients of the Ampol branded IRB, which will ensure that our club and volunteers can continue to support the local community and help train our young members. In the 2022 foods, our IRB was essential in the rescue efforts, and this new IRB will help protect our community on the beaches and also in times of natural disaster.
Ampol Chief Brand Offcer, Jenny O’Regan said:
“Our partnership with Surf Life Saving Australia continues to place an important spotlight on Ampol Foundation’s focus of safety and wellbeing within the communities in which we operate.
“We are proud to oversee the delivery of new IRBs to two deserving Surf Life Saving Clubs in Evans Head and Batemans Bay and wish them all the best for the beach patrol season ahead.”
In addition to Ampol donating equipment directly to club they will be for another year via @ampolfoodary proudly raising donations to support all of Surf Life Saving.
By visiting selected stores within the Ampol Foodary retail network between 3 July and 6 August, purchase a treat from the tasty selection of products, and 10c from your purchase will be donated back to Surf Life Saving to support our incredible volunteer surf lifesavers to continue to do their heroic work!
New Program Empowers Businesses and Councils to Harness Renewable Energy Opportunities
Businesses and local councils in Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) will be empowered to save money and help meet net zero targets under a new initiative from the NSW Government.
The Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo) has partnered with the Business Renewables Centre Australia (BRC-A) to assist businesses in understanding how they can buy electricity directly from renewable energy generators such as solar and wind farms, as well as from energy retailers with renewable
generation.
This program will enable businesses and councils to harness the potential of renewable energy power purchase agreements (PPAs), securing access to longterm, reliable renewable energy supplies.
Information sessions have already commenced in the Central-West Orana REZ, with further sessions planned for the Hunter-Central Coast and New England REZs in the coming months.
The program provides resources and educational opportunities to equip participants with the knowledge and confdence to
navigate the PPA process. Through a series of workshops, participants will gain valuable insights into the fnancial and environmental benefts of PPAs, the intricacies of the PPA process, and strategies for identifying and securing the most suitable PPA.
Businesses and councils within the Hunter-Central Coast and New England regions are encouraged to register their interest in the program at energyco.nsw.gov.au/ ppa-education. Quotes attributable to EnergyCo Community Benefts and Regional
Development Director Alexandra Hall:
“Power purchase agreements are a great way for local councils and businesses to lock in energy price stability, save money, and source more electricity directly from renewables. They beneft these organizations, local employment and investment, and the environment. This new program aims to ensure councils and businesses in our Renewable Energy Zones have the knowledge and practical tools to secure the best power purchase agreement for their needs.”
Lights on for Bangalow Sports Fields
New lights have been installed at Bangalow Sports Fields, after several months of delays due to wet weather.
The $795,000 upgrade, funded by the NSW Government’s Essential Community Sports Assets program, is much welcomed by the Bangalow sporting community.
Malcolm Robertson, Manager Open Spaces and Facilities, said he knew the Bangalow community was eager to see the new lights in place, and wanted to thank them for their patience over the past few months.
“As the community would be aware we needed dry weather to complete this work, which is challenging in the Northern Rivers. We are pleased to see that the lights have now gone in and hope that the sporting groups that utilise the felds enjoy playing under them,” Mr Robertson said.
“The new lights are energy-effcient LEDs and while the poles are taller, they have been designed to reduce light spill and will save around $35,000 a year on electricity,” he said.
Quotes attributable to Business Renewables Centre Australia Program Director Jackie McKeon:
“The Business Renewables Council is thrilled to be working with EnergyCo to raise the literacy level about power purchase agreements for organizations around NSW. Through our years of experience supporting some of Australia’s most high-profle companies and councils, we understand how our PPA training can empower participants to think differently about their energy options.”
Acting NSW Offce of Sport Chief Executive, Adam Berry said this program delivers on the NSW Government’s commitment to provide modern infrastructure that builds food resilience into local sport facilities. “Having these new and more effcient lights in place will mean that the Bangalow sporting community can enjoy more opportunities to play sport and keep the local community healthy and active. “I look forward to seeing the community and local sporting clubs making the most out of the upgrades.” Improved lighting for evening activities was identifed as a key priority in feedback on the Bangalow Sports Fields Masterplan.
Dawe
TOEING the line is a far cry from having to relinquish all agency and cower to the culture or every command of a highly repressive environment. There are many healthy and unhealthy forms that conFORMity can take, but it is the unhealthy type that can entrap us and turn our lives into very limited, living hells. While boxes - being the ultimate symbol of conformity - can provide focus and keep mustered forces directed on where they need to go, they can also overwhelmingly keep people restrained, if not grossly unfulfilled. Or as the English spray can-wielding activist Banksy once boldly suggested, “Think outside the box, collapse the box, and take a fu@ king sharp knife to it.”
Similarly, the American word-wit, Jim Hightower once rather aptly noted, “The opposite of courage is not cowardice, it is conformity. Even a dead fish can go with the flow.” And it is the flow that beguiles and ensnares us, the ease with which it frictionlessly carries us along. We play the game in the buffed hope it will afford us rewards and recognition along the way. Wonderfully enough, Hightower once wrote a book titled, There’s Nothing in the Middle of the Road but Yellow Stripes and Dead Armadillos.
Many years ago, I was invited as a token graduate to a meeting with HR executives in the organisation I worked for, to ‘discuss’ the findings of a recent cultural survey. Innocently, because I don’t think I got the ‘simply conform’ chip at birth; I waded into the discussional fray with how response rates were
Keep an eye out for Mud Scours on the North Coast
The North Coast Local Land Services has provided livestock producers with information about Mud scours, or Yersiniosis, that has recently been confrmed by laboratory testing as the cause of death in cattle on an NSW far north coast property.
less than 50 per cent, and if I subsequently gave each person a copy of War and Peace with every second page ripped out, it would tell a very different story.
Needless to say, I wasn’t invited to cultural survey session number two, and nor did quoting Stanislaw J Lec’s missive, “So little of the forest’s charm remains in the mushroom soup,” help to alter anyone’s endearment to me; but I’ve never forgotten the stagnant, self-important attitudes that countered, albeit outright rejected the feedback provided by the youngest person in the room.
My favourite book of all-time is called Fruits of the Earth, and it was written in 1897 by a young Frenchman named Andre Gide, who thought he was about to die of tuberculosis. It is unlike any work in all of literature, and I can’t believe it is not a set text in every year 12 classroom throughout the world. Fittingly, Gide mentions in his masterpiece, “When your surroundings have taken on your likeness, or you yourself have grown like your surroundings, they have ceased to profit you… I only esteem myself for my possibilities.”
Relatedly, the Russianborn Ayn Rand once defiantly flew into the sneering face of conformity by saying, “I worship individuals for their highest possibilities as individuals and I loathe humanity for its failure to live up to these possibilities.”
The moral of which is never lost on those who do not have it in their nature to conform when that conformity reduces all they stand for – to naught.
Mud scours is a severe and often fatal bacterial scour (diarrhoea) which can result in sickness and death in large numbers of adult cattle but can also be seen in weaners and yearlings. It is a common cause of diarrhoea and death in the north coast region each winter and spring, often following physiological and environmental stressors such as lack of nutrition and cold, wet, windy weather. This recent confrmation serves to remind cattle producers that the conditions are
now favourable for this disease to occur and to monitor stock regularly. Since the disease is driven by seasonal and paddock conditions, it tends to occur as outbreaks and can cause signifcant losses in affected herds. Some years are particularly bad for the disease with a signifcant number of properties in a district affected, since many places may experience similar environmental conditions.
The bacteria require cool temperatures and mud on dry feed, so it is often seen on lowlying or poorly drained pastures, commonly after fooding. Cases can also occur as lagoons and dams dry out in winter and cattle enter the mud to feed. However, the disease can also occur on high ground, as in the recently confrmed case,
particularly when hay around self-feeders is contaminated with mud from cattle feeding.
If seen early, cattle will be depressed, not eating, drooling saliva and have high temperatures. They then develop a watery, smelly scour occasionally tinged with white casts or blood.
Some cattle may linger for a week and have a profuse watery scour and dramatic weight loss. Others may just be found dead without noticing diarrhoea prior.
If treated early with broad-spectrum antibiotics, animals may be saved. It is best to consult your veterinarian about diagnosis and treatment as it is worth ruling out other causes of diarrhoea such as that from stomach worm, salmonellosis or Johne’s disease (which, if suspected, must be
reported to your Local Land Services District Vet). It is also important to keep scouring animals well hydrated. Electrolyte replacement solutions may be required.
If possible, move the cattle to a fresh paddock. However, this may be diffcult as farms with the disease often have no dry areas during the risk period. Careful observation is essential to ensure early treatment of any suspicious cases. If hay around feeders is the problem, remove spilt hay and move the hay ring to a fresh site. If you are concerned about your livestock, you can contact the North Coast Local Land Services District Veterinarian team on 1300 795 299.
Family of Missing Tweed Heads Man Calls for Greater Action and Support for Missing Persons Cases
The Missed Foundation
The sister of Patrick Liedke, now offcially deemed a long-term missing person, has launched an appeal ahead of National Missing Persons Week 2024. Police, missing persons units, and the public are being urged to do more to support missing persons, particularly those with mental health or neurodiversity impacts. The appeal comes from the family of 39-year-old Patrick Liedke, who has been missing for 90 days.
National Missing Persons Week, starting on 28 July, also highlights the role of major technology companies. Families of missing people argue these companies could do more to help police fnd the mobile phones of those who go missing— information that can be critical in locating them.
This week marks three months since Patrick
Liedke was last seen on 22 April west of Tweed Heads, New South Wales. His sister, Nicole Liedke, emphasizes the need to improve the system for searching for missing persons and to increase understanding across agencies, the healthcare sector, and the public of neurodivergent individuals and those with mental health challenges.
After Patrick’s car was located near Cobaki, a multi-agency search was initiated on 26 April, but police suspended the search on 1 May due to a lack of fresh evidence. Since then, Nicole and volunteers have been exploring the NSWQueensland bushland area without police assistance. Currently, a 13-day community search is underway for Patrick at Long Tan Park, Currumbin Valley, Queensland.
Nicole is calling for police to have immediate access to the online
location records of missing people from technology companies.
“We urgently need legislation to speed up access to this critical information so we can improve the chances of locating the missing person early in the search,” she said.
“Making just this one change could greatly increase their chance of survival.”
Nicole also appeals for wider community awareness of how to identify and respond to a mental health emergency. Two eyewitnesses saw Patrick alone, in shorts, barefoot, covered in mud, carrying no bag as he walked into a rainforest area but did not think to call the police.
“For many neurodivergent people, the attraction to nature areas can be common. However, once they enter these areas, it is extremely diffcult to fnd them because technology
is often restricted by the dense canopy of the rainforest,” she explained. “It’s important as a community that we learn to recognize signs of a mental health emergency by observing the person’s appearance, behavior, and speech, and whether they have someone with them. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to call the police—you could save a life.”
Over 56,000 Australians were reported missing last year—an increase of more than 35% in three years. While most are found within a week, one to two percent become long-term missing persons. Research shows that for every missing person reported, at least 12 other people are directly impacted emotionally, psychologically, and/or fnancially.
High-profle disappearances in recent years, like that
of Belgian backpacker Théo Hayez, have highlighted the importance of data from digital devices to help inform investigations.
Lisa Hayez, Théo’s cousin, noted that recommendations from Théo’s 2021 inquest, which urged tech giants like Google to provide police with key information promptly, have not been fully implemented.
“These recommendations brought some comfort to me and my family at the time, believing that future families might not have to deal with these sorts of restrictions in the early stages of searching,” Lisa said.
Nicole added, “I want to raise awareness for people with mental health issues, disabilities, and neurodivergences, who are more vulnerable to going missing and for whom the search can often be more complex. The families of longterm missing people need more help with the far-reaching emotional, logistical, and fnancial impacts, which don’t go away even if the missing person is found.”
For more information, visit the Find Patrick Liedke Facebook page. If you have any information regarding Patrick’s whereabouts, contact Tweed Police on 07 5506 9499 or 131 444, or Nicole via fndpatrickliedke@ gmail.com.
“It’s now been fve years since Théo disappeared and seeing that these recommendations have not been taken seriously and that families like Samantha Murphy’s and Patrick Liedke’s are paying the price for this disregard is heartbreaking and extremely frustrating. It’s vital that these recommendations are seriously considered and applied widely.”
Danger stands ready to serve as a beacon to mariners for decades to come following an extensive $6.5 million upgrade to the aging structure
Straddling the NSW and Queensland border, the refurbished Captain Cook Memorial and Lighthouse was offcially opened today after signifcant renovations to the 53-year-old facility.
First opened in April 1971 as a joint project between the City of Gold Coast, Tweed Shire Council, and the Australian Government to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Captain James Cook’s voyage, the building was extended in 1990 to accommodate the volunteer Marine Rescue NSW service.
The upgrade, which began in mid-2022 following the discovery of concrete cancer in parts of the structure, has provided improved, more accessible amenities that make the most of the spectacular setting.
Funding for the $6.5 million refurbishment was jointly provided by:
• NSW Government’s Cross Border Commissioner’s Infrastructure Fund
($2,023,449)
• NSW Government’s Restart NSW Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund ($973,000)
• City of Gold Coast ($1,990,000)
• Tweed Shire Council ($1,514,000)
• NSW Offce of Environment and Heritage ($50,000)
The upgraded facility boasts state-of-the-art new facilities for Marine Rescue NSW’s Point Danger Unit, which from January 2023
to June 2024 logged and monitored 27,763 crossings of the Tweed River bar and undertook 176 rescues, saving the lives of 318 people on the water.
The site holds signifcant cultural heritage for the First Nations people of the region, with renowned local Bundjalung/ Yugambeh artist Christine Slabb engaged to create Indigenous storyboards and artworks to tell the tale of Ngagambi – Black Dingo, the traditional name of Point Danger. Her artwork is now embedded in the stone foors and walls of the lighthouse and inside the new café.
Aptly named Black Dingo in a nod to the Bundjalang story, the new café opened in May and is already proving popular with tourists with its spectacular views overlooking the Tweed River to the south and Gold Coast skyline to the north. It is open daily from 6 am to 3:30 pm.
The upgrade has made the structure more
accessible to people with disabilities and includes a ramp to the top viewing deck and accessible ablutions. An additional 13 car parking spaces were created on the southern side of the lighthouse as part of the upgrade.
NSW Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:
“This is a great example of NSW and Queensland working together to deliver a signifcant result that nods to the history and important cultural signifcance of this site for our border communities. As well as playing a vital role to keep our communities safe, the site’s accessibility upgrades have ensured that even more people can explore this iconic lighthouse at Point Danger and behold the beautiful view over both sides of the border.”
Tweed MP Geoff Provest said:
“The lighthouse is a popular tourism drawcard for the Tweed Heads-Coolangatta area and it is fantastic to see this upgrade completed
and once again bustling with visitors following the devastating impact on the border region during COVID. The project has delivered substantial economic benefts, with more than 100 jobs created during the design and construction phase and more than 20 local residents already employed by the new Black Dingo Café. Signifcantly, this upgrade acknowledges the considerable cultural importance of this site for the Aboriginal people of the region, with artwork illustrating this signifcance embedded in the stonework of the lighthouse as part of the upgrade.”
City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said:
“From ancient times, this iconic location has been a place that people have come to for the spectacular views and stunning location. Over time it has become a beacon for people to gather at, on the border between our two great states. With this upgrade, it now has a new lease of life and will continue to be a focal point for
future generations, as well as its practical uses, including for the wonderful work of the Marine Rescue Unit. It is a great example of what can be achieved with cross-border cooperation, long may she shine.”
Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry said:
“The lighthouse at Point Danger stands as an iconic marker to warn of the dangers around the coastline and as the border between NSW and Queensland. We are grateful to the NSW Government and City of Gold Coast for their generous support in cofunding this upgrade and for the way we have been able to all work together to get a result for our border community. It is important we preserve this heritage site for the safety of mariners and to make it more accessible for all to use and enjoy the spectacular views. It is exciting to see this project completed and the lighthouse ready to stand the test of time for decades to come. Thank you to everyone who worked on this project to deliver this crucial facility.”
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said:
“This upgraded facility is vital for Marine Rescue NSW operations in the area. The state-ofthe-art communications equipment installed here is crucial for our mission of saving lives on the water while the designated search and rescue room provides an area for emergency services to coordinate multi-agency responses. The visibility from the radio room is crucial for our radio and watch offcers to observe the Tweed River Bar and initiate search and rescue missions. The facility has again proven itself a lifesaving location. Since resuming operations here, a Marine Rescue Point Danger radio operator initiated an emergency response after observing a vessel, which had not logged on, overturn whilst attempting to cross back over the bar. Her awareness and rapid response led to a rescue mission being initiated and multiple lives being saved with the assistance of NSW Water Police. The Tweed River Bar is an extremely busy waterway, and we encourage all boaters to Log On with Marine Rescue NSW so our volunteers can keep watch for their safe return. Boaters can Log On via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF Channel 16, it only takes a minute to protect a lifetime.”
The $6.5 million upgrade of Captain Cook Memorial and Lighthouse at Point Danger was offcially opened today, with dignitaries, Marine Rescue NSW volunteers and project contractors in attendance.
Unveiling the plaque to mark the offcial opening of the upgraded lighthouse are from left, City of Gold Coast Deputy Mayor Donna Gates, Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry, Tweed MP Geoff Provest and Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell.
volunteer with Marine Rescue NSW’s Point Danger Unit oversees the busy waterway below
Travelling is an enriching experience, offering new perspectives and unforgettable memories. However, the cost can vary signifcantly depending on the destination. Here’s a guide to help you estimate the cost of a two-week trip on each continent in Australian Dollars (AUD).
1. NORTH AMERICA
United States and Canada
Travelling in North America can be expensive, especially in popular destinations like New York City, Los Angeles, and Toronto.
Here’s a breakdown:
• Accommodation:
$1,800 - $3,000 (midrange hotels)
• Food: $750 - $1,500
• Transportation: $450 - $900 (domestic fights, car rentals, public transport)
• Activities and Sightseeing: $600 -
$1,200
• Miscellaneous: $300
- $600
Total: $3,900 - $7,200
2. SOUTH AMERICA
Brazil, Argentina, Peru
South America offers a mix of affordable and mid-range options.
Here’s an estimate:
• Accommodation:
$900 - $1,800 (hostels, budget hotels)
• Food: $450 - $900
• Transportation: $300
- $750 (buses, domestic fights)
• Activities and Sightseeing: $450$1,050
• Miscellaneous: $150
- $450
Total: $2,250 - $4,950
3. EUROPE
Western and Eastern Europe
Europe is diverse, with Western Europe being more expensive than Eastern Europe. Here’s a general
estimate:
• Accommodation:
$1,500 - $3,000 (midrange hotels, hostels)
• Food: $900 - $1,800
• Transportation: $300
- $750 (trains, budget fights)
• Activities and Sightseeing: $750$1,500
• Miscellaneous: $300
- $600
Total: $3,750 - $7,650
4. ASIA
Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam), East Asia (Japan, China)
Asia provides a range of budget and luxury options.
Here’s an estimate for both ends of the spectrum:
• Accommodation:
$450 - $2,250 (hostels, budget hotels, mid-range hotels in Japan and China)
• Food: $300 - $1,200
• Transportation: $150
- $600 (buses, domestic
The Cost of Travelling for Two Weeks on Each Continent
• Activities and Sightseeing: $450$1,200 (safaris, tours)
• Miscellaneous: $150 - $450
Total: $2,250 - $5,100
6. AUSTRALIA AND OCEANIA
Australia, New Zealand, Fiji Australia and Oceania are generally expensive regions.
Here’s a breakdown:
• Accommodation:
$1,800 - $3,600 (midrange hotels, hostels)
• Food: $900 - $1,800
• Transportation: $600 - $1,200 (domestic fights, car rentals)
• Activities and Sightseeing: $600$1,500
• Miscellaneous: $300
- $600
Total: $4,200 - $8,700
7. ANTARCTICA
Traveling to Antarctica is unique and considerably more expensive due to its remote location and specialized travel requirements. Here’s a basic estimate:
• Cruise Cost: $10,500
- $22,500 (including accommodation, food, and excursions)
• Gear and Equipment: $750 - $1,500
• Flights to Departure Point (Ushuaia, Argentina): $1,500 -
$3,000
Total: $12,750$27,000
HERE’S A SUMMARY:
• North America: $3,900 - $7,200
• South America: $2,250 - $4,950
• Europe: $3,750$7,650
• Asia: $1,350 - $5,400
• Africa: $2,250$5,100
• Australia and Oceania: $4,200$8,700
• Antarctica: $12,750$27,000
While these are general estimates, actual costs can vary based on personal preferences, travel style, and specifc destinations within each continent. Planning ahead and budgeting accordingly can help make your travel dreams a reality without fnancial surprises.
Reminder: Understanding Consumer Guarantees for Your Business
If your business provides a product or service, it’s crucial to understand your obligations and responsibilities under Australian Consumer Law. Consumers have rights, known as consumer guarantees, which apply to certain products and services. These guarantees ensure that consumers receive the product they paid for and that it performs as expected.
Obligations for Businesses:
• Meeting Guarantees:
If a product or service fails to meet a guarantee, you may need to provide a remedy such as a replacement, repair, or refund. The type of remedy depends on whether the failure is major or minor.
• Accurate Signage: Ensure all signs in your business accurately represent consumer rights. It is unlawful to mislead consumers by displaying signs such as: o ‘No refunds’ at all, or after a certain number of days
o ‘Exchange or credit note only for the return of sale items’
o Consumer guarantees apply regardless of whether an item is on sale and have no set time limit.
Handling Change of Mind:
• Refunds and Exchanges: You are not required to provide a refund if a customer simply changes their mind. However, if your store policy offers a refund, exchange, or credit note for change of
mind, you must adhere to that policy. Ensure these policies are clearly displayed at the point of sale or on your website.
Proof of Purchase:
• Requirements: When customers need to exchange or return purchases, you can ask for proof of purchase. If they cannot provide proof, you may refuse to offer a remedy.
• Acceptable Proofs: Proof of purchase can include:
o Credit or debit card statement
o A receipt or reference number for phone or internet payments
o A copy or photograph of the receipt Small Businesses as Consumers:
• Consumer Rights: Your business also has consumer rights when purchasing products or services from other businesses if the purchase meets at least one of the following conditions:
o Costs less than $100,000 including GST
o Is commonly bought for personal, domestic, or
household use
o Is a vehicle or trailer used mainly to transport goods on public roads
• Exceptions: Consumer guarantees do not apply when the product is purchased:
o For resupply
o For use or transformation in production or manufacturing
o To repair or treat other goods
For more details and guidance about consumer guarantees, visit the ACCC website.
CSIRO Report Highlights Key Role of R&D and International Collaboration in Australia’s Critical Minerals Opportunity
Prioritizing research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) investment along with international collaboration is vital for Australia to become a leader in the global energy transition, according to a new report by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency. Released today, the report is the first comprehensive assessment of innovation in critical minerals refining, essential for establishing a sovereign mid-stream processing industry in Australia.
The demand for energy transition minerals has surged in the past five years to US$320 billion, driven by the exponential growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and the continued
deployment of solar and wind energy. The report provides valuable data on current capabilities and RD&D, as well as international cooperation opportunities across key minerals such as lithium, cobalt, silicon, rare earth elements, and graphite.
The report aims to guide investment and policy decisionmaking by detailing processing technology options necessary for producing:
• Lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles
• Rare earth magnets used in electric cars and wind turbines
• Solar photovoltaic (PV) cells
Max Temminghoff, Minerals Lead at CSIRO Futures, emphasized the report’s contribution to Australia’s
development beyond mining and exporting raw materials, towards higher value processing and manufacturing using critical minerals.
“This report presents an optimistic outlook, providing insights into current RD&D capabilities and a pathway forward,” Mr. Temminghoff said.
“Australia has a rich endowment of critical minerals and worldleading capabilities in several mid-stream activities. To become competitive in midstream processing, promoting innovation, coordinating efforts across industry, research, and government, and fostering international collaboration are essential.”
Innovation is
crucial for enhancing existing commercial processes and introducing disruptive technologies to support cost-competitive and sustainable production of essential materials in Australia, which are in high global demand. By encouraging innovation and collaboration, Australia can capitalize on the international demand for minerals needed for the energy transition and strengthen its global leadership in critical mineral processing.
Dr. Rob Hough, Director of CSIRO’s Mineral Resources, highlighted the timeliness of the report. “This report showcases Australia’s technical strengths and homegrown
capability, presenting opportunities for significant innovation and international partnerships,” Dr. Hough said.
Lucy O’Connor, Manager of the Australian Critical Minerals Research and Development Hub, underscored the pivotal role of R&D in realizing Australia’s potential in critical mineral processing, commercializing the sector, and establishing ESG standards that distinguish Australian industry.
“We need to ensure research is targeted to industry problems and outcomes and can be developed into commercially applicable technologies,” Ms. O’Connor said. “This
report provides the information that industry, international partners, and investors, as well as the R&D sector, need to identify comparative opportunities and address the most challenging technical bottlenecks when developing integrated supply chains in critical minerals.”
The report was funded by the Critical Minerals Office in the Department of Industry, Science and Resources and will also help inform the Australian Critical Minerals Research and Development Hub, a $50.5 million initiative that brings together Australia’s leading science agencies –ANSTO, CSIRO, and Geoscience Australia.
ENTERTAINMENT
8 PAGE LIFT OUT
International-acclaimed singer/songwriter, Bloom, is set to wow music lovers once again with her latest show titled “Seventh Wonder.” In this remarkable production, Bloom will take fans on an unforgettable journey through the timeless music of Fleetwood Mac, performing the iconic “Rumours” album in its entirety, along with a selection of the band’s greatest hits.
Bloom’s ability to channel the essence and spirit of Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac has garnered her widespread acclaim, earning her a devoted fan base across Australia and New Zealand. Her previous shows ‘Bloom sings
Stevie Nicks, Carole King & Linda Ronstadt’ and ‘Bloom sings Adele & Amy Winehouse’, have consistently received rave reviews, solidifying her status as one of today’s most exceptional live performers. Critics and fans alike have praised Bloom’s magnetic stage presence, remarkable vocal range, and her seamless ability to capture the emotional depth within each song. With “Seventh Wonder,” fans can expect an authentic and exhilarating tribute to one of the most legendary bands in rock history. The show will showcase the full “Rumours” album, featuring
timeless classics such as “Go Your Own Way,” “Dreams,” and “Don’t Stop.” Additionally, Bloom will enchant audiences with Fleetwood Mac’s greatest hits, including “Little Lies,” “Gypsy,” and “Say You Love Me,” among many others. Fleetwood Mac, a British-American rock band formed in 1967,
has left an indelible mark on the music industry, selling over 100 million records worldwide. Their masterpiece album, “Rumours,” released in 1977, became one of the best-selling albums of all time, with more than 45 million copies sold to date. The album’s emotional depth and timeless melodies have resonated with fans for
generations, making it a staple of music collections worldwide.
Bloom’s dedication to honouring the legacy of Fleetwood Mac through her captivating performances has made her an esteemed fgure in the music industry. With her exquisite vocal talent and deep appreciation for the band’s iconic sound, Bloom’s rendition of the “Rumours” album and greatest hits promises to be a night to remember.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the magic as Bloom brings Fleetwood Mac’s iconic music to life.
“Bloom’s voice is a force of nature, effortlessly capturing the soul and essence of every song she performs.”
“A spellbinding performance that left the audience in awe. Bloom’s stage presence is simply mesmerising.”
“An extraordinary talent with a voice that could move mountains. Bloom is a true force to be reckoned with.”
“You my darling, are the seventh wonder of the world.”
EVENT DETAILS:
• When: Saturday 03 August @8pm
• Where: Twins Towns, Tweed Heads
• Price: $49
• Tickets: Via the QR code.
Place the digits 1 to 9 in the blue squares, so that all 6 equations are correct. Multiplication and/or division are performed rst, in whichever order they appear –followed by addition and/or subtraction, in whichever order they appear.
TIME FOR TRIVIA
1 What term describes the webbing or fusing together of two or more fingers or toes? (a) Sarcoidosis (b) Dupuytren’s contracture (c) Syndactyly (d) Raynaud’s Phenomenon
2 The flag of which country is also known as the Five Cross Flag?
(a) United Kingdom (b) Georgia (c) Norway (d) South Africa
3 Who starred in the title role in the 2015 movie, Mad Max: Fury Road?
(a) Nicholas Hoult (b) Hugh Keays-Byrne (c) Nathan Jones (d) Tom Hardy
4 James Bullough Lansing is best known for his pioneering work in which field? (a) Audio electronics (b) Digital photography (c) Smartphone technology (d) Aerospace engineering
5 Chimborazo is the highest mountain in which South American country? (a) Chile (b) Ecuador (c) Venezuela (d) Peru
6 Robert Kiyosaki is best known as the author of which book? (a) The Celestine Prophecy (b) Rich Dad, Poor Dad (c) Think and Grow Rich (d) The Power of Now
ALFAKODO
WHICH WORDS
Which is the correct meaning for these words?
1 DEMUR
(a) To look with affected modesty
(b) To hesitate from uncertainty
(c) To exhibit one’s feelings
2 ENCYCLICAL
(a) Sent round to many persons or places
(b) Close fitting
(c) Full of information
3 INVEIGLE
(a) To make an attack with words
(b) To cast a shadow upon
(c) To entice
4 KIBITZER
(a) An onlooker who gives unwanted advice
(b) A Jewish communal agricultural settlement in Israel
(c) A Russian covered wagon or sledge
5 PECULATE
(a) To pilfer
(b) To eat daintily
(c) To congeal
BEST ON THE BOX
MONDAY
STACEY DOOLEY: INSIDE THE UNDERTAKERS
SBS VICELAND, 9.40pm
Actor Jay Baruchel is currently tackling the subjects of death and the end of civilisation in his rather quirky series We’re All Gonna Die (tonight, 8.30pm), but here British media personality and social issues investigator Stacey Dooley (pictured above) takes a di erent tack with a sincere, diligent approach to understanding her fear of dying. It’s an emotional and confronting journey as Dooley goes behind the scenes of a funeral home and learns about everything from embalming to cremation and how undertakers deal with life ending every day. Dooley’s composure is commendable, but tissues are a must for this poignant and intimate exploration.
FRIDAY, August 2
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.35 Vera. (Ma, R) Part 2 of 3. 9.10 Troppo. (Malv) Ted and Amanda attend Julian’s eccentric funeral armed with explosive knowledge about Raph’s parentage.
10.05 Austin. (Final, PG, R) Julian is concerned about Austin.
10.35 ABC Late News.
10.50 Love Your Garden. (R)
11.40 Grand Designs: Milton Keynes. (PGm, R)
12.25 Gri ’s Great Australian Rail Trip. (PG, R)
1.15 We Hunt Together. (Malsv, R)
2.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
8.00
WEDNESDAY
RICK STEIN’S FOOD STORIES
SBS FOOD, 7.30pm
After 15 episodes of delectable and interesting cuisine, cooking and a crowd of foodies, we really should be thoroughly sated. But there’s something about chef Rick Stein’s (pictured below) heartfelt enthusiasm and hunger to understand and taste the smorgasbord that the British food scene that still leaves us hankering for more. In tonight’s – carrot tart and a cheese, potato and spinach to get your taste buds tingling –play second up his gastronomic journey on home soil in the West Country. In line for a spirited chinwag are organic food trailblazer Guy Singh-Watson, cheesemaker Mary Quicke and seafood restaurateur Mark Hix.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Great British Landmark Fixers. (Premiere, PGa)
8.30 Ancient Superstructures: Holy Sepulchre – The Sacred Shield. (Return) A look at the Holy Sepulchre.
9.30 The Airport: Back In The Skies. (Ml, R)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 The Shelter. (Ma)
12.30 My Brilliant Friend. (Mlv, R)
3.30 Grayson Perry’s Big American Road Trip. (Mal, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up 1999. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Most Expensivest. 1.25 Untold Australia. 2.25 Over The Black Dot. 3.15 WorldWatch. 5.10 Riveted: The History Of Jeans. 6.15 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Billy Connolly: Great American Trail. 9.25 Men For Sale: The Life Of A Male Escort. 10.20 Laura Whitmore Investigates Rough Sex. 11.15 Shoresy. 11.50 Late Programs.
TUESDAY
FIRST DATES UK
SEVEN, 9.30pm
Despite the fact there are cameras everywhere –catching every blush, wink and awkward look –this mirthful and
6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs meets Joost Bakker.
8.30 MOVIE: Fifty Shades Darker. (2016, MA15+s, R) Despite the disasterous end to their relationship, an emotionally wounded Christian tries to entice a cautious Ana back into his life after they are reunited at the opening of her friend’s photography exhibit. Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Kim Basinger. 11.00 To Be Advised.
1.00 Criminal Confessions: His Final Fight. (MA15+av, R)
2.00 Home Shopping.
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.
5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Harry’s Practice. 9.30 Penelope Keith’s Hidden Villages. 11.30 Medical Emergency. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 House Of Wellness. 2.00 Discover. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 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 Chris Tarrant’s Extreme Railways. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.
7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Children’s
series manages
some genuinely moving moments. Sure, there are nervous folks who drink one too many cocktails and court embarrassment by falling o their chair but, as is the case here with two young love-seekers Rory and Ella, sometimes it’s a heartwarming insight into human connection. A smitten Rory (pictured above) calls Ella “wife material” and they bond over shared values – they also share their irting techniques, of course – but it’s Rory’s openness about his mother’s death that will no doubt strike a nerve with many viewers.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Night. Events may include: athletics; swimming; rowing; men’s basketball, Australia v Greece.
8.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 22. Dolphins v Sydney Roosters. From HBF Park, Perth. 9.55 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Night. Events may include: men’s basketball, Australia v Greece. 10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Late night.
12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Post midnight.
3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Overnight. 5.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Early morning.
9GEM
Kids. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Operation Ouch! 9.05 O cially Amazing. 9.35 Dragon Ball Super. 9.55 Supernatural Academy. 10.20 The PM’s Daughter. 10.45 Phoenix Rise. 11.45 Good Game Spawn Point. 12.30am Rage. 1.30 TMNT. 2.15 The Legend Of Korra. 2.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Ben Fogle: Starting Up Starting Over. 2.00 Bewitched. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Night. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Dolphins v Roosters. 8.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Night. 9.55 MOVIE: Promising Young Woman. (2020, MA15+) 11.45 MOVIE: Darklands. (2022, MA15+) 2am The Nanny. 2.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 3.00
9GO! (83) 6am Arthur And The Two Worlds War. Continued. (2010, PG) 7.40 Goal! 2: Living The Dream. (2007, PG) 9.45 Good Night, And Good Luck. (2005, PG) 11.30 Studs. (2006, M) 1.15pm The Kid From The Big Apple 2. (2017, PG, Mandarin) 3.20 Spread Your Wings. (2019, PG) 5.30 Basmati Blues. (2017, PG) 7.30 Bring It On. (2000, PG) 9.20 Rush. (2013, MA15+) 11.35 November. (2017, Estonian) 1.45am Southpaw. (2015) 4.00 Swan Song. (2021, M)
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. (Mlv, R) Guests include Bradley Cooper, Carey Mulligan, Bryan Cranston, Bryce Dallas Howard, Daniel Kaluuya and Kevin Bridges. 9.30 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a look at the week that was. 10.30 10’s Late News.
10.55 The Project. (R)
12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
BOLD (51)
PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY
TARGET TIME
N L M
E G A
T
N E
Today’s target:
20 words average 25 words good
30+ words excellent
Find words of four letters or more. Every word must include the centre letter and each letter is used once only. Find at least one nine-letter word. No colloquial or foreign words, capitalised nouns, apostrophes, hyphens. No verbs or plural words ending in ‘s’. Solution list is not exhaustive. Ref: Macquarie Dictionary
ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)
Auspac Media
Prepare for a topsy-turvy week! The Sun, New Moon and Venus are in fellow fire sign Leo, so you’ll feel like powering ahead with creative projects. But disruptive Uranus squares Venus on Friday, so rushing around impulsively could backfire –especially involving friends and finances. To reduce stress levels (and the likelihood of making mistakes) enthusiasm must be balanced with caution, and fiery haste tempered with plenty of patience.
TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)
Venus (your patron planet) squares Uranus on Friday, when a personal project takes an unexpected turn, or a family member could hit you with some surprising news. Talking things through with a sympathetic friend may be the healing balm you need. Sunday’s New Moon is a fabulous time for a domestic reboot as you clean and declutter your living space, and make it more beautiful via redecorating, playing music or a fresh lick of paint.
GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)
Family relationships and close friendships look complicated this week, as loved ones debate a wide range of controversial topics or a relative makes an unpredictable move. If you have a problem that’s bothering you, avoid making a rash decision. Slow down, Gemini, and let your intuition be your guide. Sunday’s New Moon is the perfect time to begin a course of study, start a neighbourhood project, join a community group, travel locally or make a new friend.
CANCER (June 21 - July 22)
You’ve been talking about saving for something big (like a car, holiday, house deposit or home renovations) for a while. With the Sun, New Moon and Venus visiting your finance zone (and Venus squaring Uranus), resist the urge to be extravagant with cash and careless with credit. In an uncertain economic climate, be a canny Crab who is cautious with money. Plus, do an inventory on your inner wealth, as you nurture your selfesteem and consolidate your core values.
LEO (July 23 - Aug 22) Calling all Cats! With the Sun, New Moon and Venus all visiting your sign, it’s your time to shine: to display your numerous creative talents, and dazzle others with your fiery enthusiasm and abundant Leo charm. It’s also the best week of the year to try a new hairstyle, update your wardrobe or start an exciting personal project. But be careful you don’t upset a work colleague, client or customer by behaving in an inconsistent, unpredictable or selfish way
VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)
Tricky Uranus vibes could make some Virgos feel restless and/or stressed. Plus, the Sun, New Moon and Venus are visiting your solitude zone, so you’ll also feel like being on your own. Privacy and self-reflection are paramount, and activities like meditation, contemplation, chanting and/ or yoga are recommended. Your mantra comes from birthday great Kate Bush (who turns 66 on Tuesday): “There’s an awful lot you learn about yourself when you’re alone.”
LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22) The fiery New Moon reignites a special hope, dream or wish that’s been languishing on the sidelines. But Venus (your patron planet) squares Uranus on Friday so – if you are stuck in a friendship slump or a relationship rut – don’t dwell on the past. It’s time to shake up your peer group as you mingle with a bohemian new crowd. Be inspired by actress (and fellow Libran) Kate Winslet: “The good and bad things are what form us as people. Change makes us grow.”
SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21) Friday’s Venus/Uranus connection brings a rush of fiery energy and a fresh perspective to a stale romance or a floundering friendship. But it could also send a faltering relationship right off the rails. There’s no denying you’re a smart Scorpion but are you making the most of your professional talents? The New Moon activates your career zone, so it’s time to put on your thinking cap, connect with colleagues and keep them up to date with your work plans.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)
Are you feeling restless, Sagittarius? The Sun, New Moon and Venus all stir your gypsy gene, and find you dreaming of greener pastures and foreign adventures. You’re also longing for closer connections with your international friends. But Venus squares unpredictable Uranus, so travel could be delayed or cancelled, and a friendship could be turned upside down. So plenty of patience and persistence is required if you want to achieve long-lasting results.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19) Do you have a frustrating problem that needs fixing? Have you asked other people for advice but still can’t find a solution? This week the Sun, New Moon and Venus activate your dream, trust and wisdom zones. So you must listen to your inner voice and pay attention to the symbolic messages in your nightly dreams. Your motto for the moment is from singer/songwriter/musician Kate Bush, who celebrates her 66th birthday on Tuesday: “Only you can sort yourself out.”
AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18) This week you’ll be reliably unpredictable and consistently inconsistent! Love, loyalty and compromise are the New Moon buzzwords. But one half of you wants to snuggle up close with someone special – while the other half longs to be footloose, fancy-free and spontaneously solo. Try to find the sweet spot between cosy companionship and invigorating independence. And resist the urge to be an Aquarian provocateur who is deliberately controversial.
PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)
New Moon week is the ideal time to ditch bad daily habits and start afresh. Work, health, fitness and food choices are the main areas where you need to make some long overdue changes and adjustments – the sooner the better. Try to release pent-up Piscean frustrations via a chat with a close confidante or a trusted family member. Spending some quality time with your favourite four-legged friend (in the great outdoors) will also help to lift your spirits.
ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore
GEORGE HARVEY
has been singing and performing since his early school days. It was here that he developed his love of all styles of music which gives him the ability to vow an audience with such diverse styles as Rock‘n’Roll, Musical Theatre, Country, Rock, Pop and everywhere in between. His career as a solo performer and as a member of the International renowned FOUR KINSMEN has seen him performing in main showrooms from Las Vegas to Twin Towns and on every major Australian
television show including ‘THE MIKE WALSH SHOW’, ‘THE MIDDAY SHOW’, ‘THE DON LANE SHOW’ and ‘HEY HEY IT’S SATURDAY!’
Debbie Fitzsummons has a wealth of experience in all areas of entertainment. Australian champion at the age of 15, she was a concert organist, & released a solo album at age 19. In addition to playing in local bands, she then expanded her horizons & played keyboards in the backing group for the “Wickety Wak” show band. She has worked with many
great Australian & International performers: Tom Jones, Simon Gallaher, Debra Byrne, Julie Anthony, Max Bygraves, Phyllis Diller, Joe Longthorne, Johnny Tillotson, Kerri-Ann Kennerly, Gina Jefferies and many others. Between them, George & Debbie have a lifetime of experience in all facets of entertainment and music.
EVENT DETAILS:
• When: Saturday 3
August @6pm
• Where: Club Banora Lounge, Banora Point
• Price: Free
The Gutsy Girls Adventure Film Tour showcases a two-and-ahalf-hour program of the most inspiring, heartfelt, and entertaining flms celebrating adventurous women from independent flmmakers around the globe. Experience the thrill of exploration and the triumph of the human spirit as a unique selection of flms of varying lengths and styles are presented, shining the light on the women of the adventure world.
Prepare to be captivated by stories of grit and determination, skill, and big dreams brought to
EVENT DETAILS:
• When: Saturday 3 August @7pm
• Where: Jetty Memorial Theatre, Coffs Harbour
• Price: $24
• Tickets: www.
life on the big screen. From mountaintop triumphs to exploration odysseys, the flms will transport you to the edge of your seat and inspire you to conquer your own challenges. This is more than just a flm tour – it’s a celebration of courage, resilience, and the power of the human spirit. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping action or heartwarming tales of triumph, the Gutsy Girls Adventure Film Tour has something for everyone. Join a night of adventure and inspiration packed full of positivity. Whether you’re young or young at heart, male or female, seasoned adventurer or aspiring explorer, the Gutsy Girls Adventure Film Tour promises to reignite your passion for life and leave you ready to tackle your next great adventure. Don’t miss out on this incredible journey – get your tickets now and prepare to be inspired!
gutsygirlsadventure flmtour.com.au
2025 Cupra Tavascan
JEFF GIBBS
The all-new 2025 Cupra Tavascan, a mid-size electric SUV set to rival the Tesla Model Y, is now scheduled to arrive in Australia from China in December, three months earlier than initially anticipated. This expedited timeline was made possible by sourcing the vehicle from China instead of Europe, according to Cupra Australia’s managing director, Ben Wilks.
“We are bringing forward the release of this car and it’s thanks to the high-tech production hub in China that we are able to source this
JEFF
GIBBS
Toyota is reportedly planning to revive the iconic Celica sports car, aligning with the company’s renewed focus on combustion engines. According to Japanese outlet BestCar, the eighth generation Toyota Celica is expected to debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon next year.
This potential revival follows rumours about the return of other classic Toyota models, including the MR2, Starlet Turbo, and a new sub-86 S-FR, which are set to join the existing GR Supra, GR 86, Corolla, and Yaris. The shape of the new Celica remains
car and also deliver it in almost the same time as our colleagues in Europe,” Wilks stated during the unveiling of a left-hand drive version of the Tavascan in Sydney. “Deliveries are scheduled to start from December this year.”
The Tavascan will be available in Australia in two grades. The entrylevel rear-wheel drive Tavascan Endurance is expected to start at around $69,000 plus on-road costs. It will feature a 77kWh battery powering a single 210kW/545Nm electric motor, offering a claimed range of 534km. This makes it more expensive than competitors like
the BYD Atto3, Tesla Model Y, Kia EV5, Toyota bZ4X, and Hyundai IONIQ 5, but it is expected to be more affordable than mid-size
“Deliveries are scheduled to start from December this year.”
luxury electric SUVs such as the Polestar 4, BMW iX3, and Mercedes-Benz EQB. Cupra will also offer a sportier VZ dual-motor all-wheel drive version of the Tavascan. This variant will use the same 77kWh battery but will extend drive to all
four wheels, delivering combined outputs of 250kW/545Nm, a 0-100km/h acceleration in 5.5 seconds, and a range of 499km. The VZ is expected to be priced closer to $80,000. The Tavascan will support a maximum DC fast-charging rate of 135kW, which Cupra claims can deliver a 1080 percent battery charge in less than 30 minutes, or 100km of range in just seven minutes. Both
variants will also offer 11kW AC charging capability. While exact pricing and specifcations for Australia are yet to be announced, the Tavascan Endurance sold in Europe includes features such as Matrix LED headlights, sports bucket seats, recycled cloth upholstery, a 15-inch infotainment system, Connected Travel Assist, and tri-zone climate control. The VZ fagship adds adaptive dampers, aero wheels, and darkchrome exterior trim, among other extras. Confrmation of the Tavascan’s earlier arrival coincides with Cupra Australia’s plans
Toyota Hints at Celica Revival
uncertain, as the name has taken various forms over the years. In the 70s, it was known as a sleek rear-drive coupe, reminiscent of the Japanese Mustang. Fans of the WRC and Group A era racing remember the fourth, ffth, and sixth generations, which featured the famous ‘3S-GTE’ powered Celica GT-Four rally car, with models codenamed ST165, ST185, and ST205. The angular front-drive seventhgeneration coupe was popular in the Fast & Furious and Need For Speed franchises. BestCar suggests that Toyota is likely to follow the WRC-era route for the new Celica’s
revival. The new Celica is speculated to feature the GR-Four active torque split all-wheel drive system found in the GR Yaris and Corolla. However, unlike a mere coupe version of the Corolla, the new two-door is expected to have a larger 2.0-litre engine producing around 300kW, which Toyota confrmed this week after announcing it last year. This powertrain has reportedly been in development for some time and is ready for release, but it currently lacks a suitable vehicle.
A new Celica could be the perfect ft, providing a distinctive alternative to the hardcore GR Corolla and Yaris.
Positioning the new Celica as a luxury alternative to GR products makes sense. The GR 86 has flled the role previously occupied by the old Celica, and there’s a signifcant gap up to the $90K rear-drive Supra.
to expand its servicing and franchise network. Currently operating 12 sales points and 14 service centres, the brand aims to increase its footprint to at least 20 sales outlets by the end of 2025. This expansion will support the introduction of several new models, including the Born VZ in the frst quarter of 2025, the updated Leon hatch and Formentor crossover in the second quarter, the Formentor Sportstourer wagon in the third quarter, and the smaller Terramar electric SUV also in the third quarter.
Tokyo Auto Salon in 2025.
Key Points:
An all-wheel drive coupe with leather upholstery, a 2+2 seating arrangement, and the option of automatic or manual transmission for about $70K could prove to be a success. Whether Toyota will put the Celica into production remains to be seen, but more information is
• Toyota is likely to revive the Celica sports car, with an expected debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon in 2025.
• The new Celica may feature the GR-Four active torque split all-wheel drive system from the GR Yaris and Corolla.
• It is expected to
around 300kW, offering a luxury alternative to the GR Corolla and Yaris.
• The revival aligns with Toyota’s renewed focus on combustion engines and follows rumours about the return of other classic models.
• More details are anticipated at the Tokyo Auto Salon in 2025.
Raising Awareness of Loneliness: The Role of Social Connections in Health and Wellbeing
As we approach
Loneliness Awareness Week (5-11 August), it is crucial to highlight the signifcance of social connections for our health and wellbeing.
Loneliness is recognized as a major social challenge today.
Research underscores that humans are inherently social beings, needing connection not only for support but also to fnd purpose and meaning in life.
Despite this, 1 in 4 people suffer from problematic loneliness.
Loneliness can be understood as the disparity between the social connections we desire and those we actually have.
Although each person’s experience of loneliness is unique, it universally poses a signifcant risk for chronic health issues such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, obesity, addiction, substance abuse, anxiety, and depression.
Researcher Julianne Holt-Lunstad found that loneliness has a more detrimental impact on our health than smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Despite social connections being a key predictor of longevity, most people undervalue them as a factor in managing their health.
This highlights the importance of initiatives like Loneliness Awareness Week and programs such as Healthy Me, Healthy Community. Healthy North Coast’s social prescribing program in Port Macquarie is particularly vital in addressing some of the region’s most common chronic conditions.
Understanding Social Prescribing
Social prescribing is a globally recognized, modern approach to healthcare where health professionals consider social determinants of health as crucial to improving health outcomes, addressing the root causes rather than just symptoms.
Patients, where appropriate, are referred to trained link workers who focus on ‘what matters’ to the individual, supporting them in connecting with activities, groups, and services in a personcentred approach.
Global studies indicate that social prescribing signifcantly improves individual health
outcomes, reduces health service usage, and fosters stronger, more connected communities.
Australia’s Primary Health Care 10-Year Plan includes social prescribing as a key strategy to enhance access to appropriate care for those at risk of poorer health outcomes. Currently, there are over 20 social prescribing programs operating throughout Australia.
Understanding Loneliness: From Emotional Distress to Public Health Crisis
Loneliness is a distressing feeling stemming from the perception that one’s social needs are unmet. Traditionally viewed as an emotional and mental health concern, it was primarily studied by psychologists, philosophers, and poets.
to seek social connections. The real issue arises when loneliness becomes chronic.
Studies in neuroscience and research on isolated animals suggest that unaddressed loneliness triggers an immune response in the body, leading to cycles of infammation that can cause various illnesses, including depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. This state of hypervigilance is also associated with personality changes and impaired decision-making, increasing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Research shows that lonely individuals face a 26% higher risk of premature death, a rate comparable to that of smoking.
Despite these concerning correlations, new evidence
(HRS) conducted by the University of Michigan. Contrary to narratives suggesting increasing loneliness among seniors, James Raymo, a demographer at Princeton University, found that the prevalence of frequent loneliness among older adults in the US remained relatively stable from 1998 to 2016.
Polling data suggests a spike in loneliness among older adults during the pandemic, with younger people experiencing even higher rates of loneliness due to social distancing. While loneliness affects all life stages, older adults are more susceptible to its adverse health outcomes, says Necka. Interestingly, older adults have shown greater resilience to social distancing than younger adults. With the easing of social distancing guidelines, loneliness
to study loneliness, but the method of survey administration (phone vs. written) can infuence results.
Certain population segments are more at risk of chronic loneliness.
People living in poverty, those with cognitive or mobility impairments, and those with sensory impairments (hearing and vision loss) are at higher risk. A 2020 report by the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine also highlights immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals as vulnerable groups.
Medical professionals are increasingly recognizing their role in addressing loneliness. For many chronically lonely older adults, a brief conversation with a doctor may be one of the few discussions about their health and wellbeing.
However, in recent years, health researchers and clinicians across various specialties have recognized loneliness as a social determinant of health—similar to economic stability or access to quality education—that signifcantly infuences overall health outcomes.
The COVID-19 pandemic, with its social distancing guidelines, has exacerbated what is now often described as an epidemic and a public health crisis.
Interestingly, not all loneliness is detrimental.
According to Liz Necka, a program director in the Division of Behavioural and Social Research at the US National Institute on Aging, about 20% of the population experiences a normal, even benefcial level of loneliness. Necka explains that loneliness can motivate individuals
suggests potential benefts of even chronic loneliness.
Recent neurological research has found that lonely individuals have bulkier and more strongly wired brain regions associated with reminiscing, imagining, and self-refection.
The complexity of loneliness makes it diffcult to measure, and much remains unknown about its precise impact on health and mortality. However, the surge in research, particularly since the pandemic, refects growing concerns about loneliness globally.
The Prevalence of Loneliness Research indicates that 15-30% of the general population is chronically lonely. Before the pandemic, about 19% of US adults over 55 were “frequently” lonely, according to the Health and Retirement Study
levels appear to be returning to pre-pandemic norms.
Research Challenges and Future Directions
Loneliness is complex and challenging to measure, partly due to the lack of uniformly accepted terminology.
Social isolation—defned as an objective lack of social contacts—is often confated with loneliness, yet these are distinct concepts. For example, a person can be content with little social contact or feel lonely despite numerous social ties if those connections lack meaning.
Additionally, while loneliness is linked to serious health conditions, these conditions can also increase the risk of loneliness, creating a vicious cycle for patients and posing research challenges. Researchers often rely on survey data
socializing. More recent approaches have seen promising results from enrolling lonely individuals in volunteer programs, although these fndings are yet to be published. Training social support personnel, such as Meals on Wheels delivery drivers, in empathetic listening has also shown potential as a scalable intervention.
The pandemic has pushed many older adults to adopt technologies like videoconferencing to stay connected, leading to increased emphasis on digital solutions.
Studies involving direct social contact via videoconferencing and the use of robot companions have shown promise in reducing feelings of loneliness and anxiety.
There is a growing recognition of the need for holistic approaches involving various disciplines and stakeholders. Experts from psychology, public transportation, and the arts have long studied loneliness and its relief methods. Amy McLennan, a senior fellow at Australian National University, cautions against framing loneliness solely as a medical issue, which might stife broader collaboration. McLennan emphasizes the importance of viewing loneliness as a multifaceted problem requiring diverse solutions.
Dr. Ashwin Kotwal, a researcher and palliative care physician at the University of California, San Francisco, notes that the pandemic has helped destigmatize loneliness, prompting more clinicians to inquire about patients’ social wellbeing. However, systemic changes are needed to promote social prescribing and secure funding for social programs that signifcantly impact quality of life.
Broadening Interventions
Because loneliness is experienced differently by individuals, no single intervention is universally effective. Necka compares loneliness to setting a thermostat, where personal preferences for social interactions vary.
Before the pandemic, interventions often focused on developing cognitive skills for
Dr. Kotwal is optimistic that the pandemic and the increasing volume of loneliness-related research will drive systemic changes in healthcare. He advocates for reallocating some medical care funds to social care to alleviate chronic loneliness effectively. This shift, he believes, will enable clinicians to play a more signifcant role in improving patients’ social wellbeing.
Recent studies have examined loneliness prevalence, the link between low human contact and poor health outcomes, and the effectiveness of various interventions. Below is a curated list of seven peer-reviewed studies on loneliness and social isolation, highlighting their key fndings and insights from some of the authors.
Doctors Warn of Rising Psychosis Linked to Medicinal Cannabis Prescriptions
Medical experts are raising alarms over a signifcant increase in hospital admissions due to psychosis linked to medicinal cannabis.
This concern comes as
“single-issue” cannabis clinics proliferate across Australia, often prescribing the drug via telehealth consultations with minimal oversight.
Brett Emmerson, Queensland chair of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP), is calling for stricter regulations on medicinal cannabis products and prescribing practices.
“We’re seeing many individuals experiencing their frst psychotic episode after being prescribed medicinal cannabis, or those with pre-existing psychotic conditions relapsing,” Emmerson stated.
Emmerson criticized the practices of some cannabis clinics. “These single-issue clinics prescribe cannabis with little to no checks. They often do not communicate with the patient’s primary doctor,
leaving other healthcare providers in the dark about their patients’ use of medicinal cannabis.”
Internet Prescriptions and Rising Psychosis Cases
Emmerson highlighted a troubling trend in Queensland’s Metro North Health, the country’s largest public health service. “The Metro North early psychosis service reports that 10% of new cases involve young people aged 16 to 21 who have become psychotic after using medicinal cannabis,” he said.
“Medicinal cannabis is causing harm due to its unregulated nature and its widespread use for conditions without suffcient evidence.”
Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome
Jennifer Martin, a general physician and clinical pharmacologist based in Newcastle, echoed Emmerson’s concerns. She noted that emergency departments are also seeing cases of cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, a condition where
patients experience severe vomiting due to high-potency cannabis.
“Some medicinal cannabis products contain signifcant levels of psychoactive components, leading to adverse effects,”
Martin explained. She also highlighted the diffculty in accessing the prescribing doctors, as many prescriptions are done online through telehealth.
Medicinal Cannabis Usage and Regulation
Medicinal cannabis was legalized in Australia in 2016. Some products are based on cannabidiol (CBD), while others contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis.
Emmerson noted that anxiety and insomnia are the most common reasons for prescribing medicinal cannabis, but he stressed that cognitive behavioural therapy is a more appropriate frst-line treatment for these conditions.
“Relying on a drug of dependence when non-drug treatments are
available is not the right approach,” he said.
Emmerson compared medicinal cannabis companies to alcohol and tobacco retailers, suggesting they proft from dependency. However, he acknowledged the legitimate uses of medicinal cannabis for conditions such as severe childhood epilepsy and chemotherapy-induced nausea.
Calls for Regulation
In March, the RANZCP released a clinical memorandum calling for regulatory changes around medicinal cannabis. “There is insuffcient evidence to support medicinal cannabis as a treatment for anxiety and other mental disorders,” the memorandum stated. The RANZCP is particularly concerned about the high rates of cannabis prescribing for anxiety, which may prevent patients from receiving evidence-based treatments.
Emmerson advocates for making medicinal cannabis a regulated
medication like other drugs of dependence in Australia. He also believes the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) should ban THCcontaining products, except for those used to treat specifc conditions like cancer-related nausea and multiple sclerosis spasticity. Regulatory Responses and Statistics
In February, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) held a forum to discuss the safe prescribing and dispensing of medicinal cannabis. According to a communique from the forum, the use of unregistered medicinal cannabis products has skyrocketed, with over one million patients using these products by January 2024, up from around 18,000 in 2019. Currently, only two medicinal cannabis products have been evaluated for safety, quality, and effcacy by the TGA: Epidyolex for severe childhood epilepsy and Sativex for multiple sclerosis
spasticity. Data from the TGA shows an increase in the variety of medicinal cannabis products supplied in Australia, rising from 504 in 2022 to 690 in 2023.
Despite the rise in usage, the TGA was unable to provide comprehensive dispensing data for medicinal cannabis products. “The TGA is not aware of a single source that can provide complete and accurate dispensing data on medicinal cannabis products,” the agency noted.
Conclusion As the debate over medicinal cannabis continues, medical professionals are urging for stronger regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of patients. By addressing the current gaps in oversight and ensuring evidence-based prescribing practices, Australia can better navigate the complexities of medicinal cannabis use.
First-Ever Clinical Trial of mRNA Cancer Vaccine Shows Promise Against Brain Cancer
A groundbreaking clinical trial at the University of Florida has demonstrated promising results for an mRNA cancer vaccine targeting brain cancer cells. This innovative approach has shown potential in activating the immune system to combat these aggressive tumours.
In the trial, genetic material called RNA was extracted from the tumours of four patients, amplifed, and then modifed to mimic a dangerous virus. This modifed RNA was then reintroduced into the bloodstream, triggering a robust immune response.
Senior author and vaccine pioneer Elias Sayour explained the personalized nature of the vaccines.
“Instead of us injecting single particles, we’re injecting clusters of particles that are wrapping around each
other like onions, like a bag full of onions,” Sayour said. “And the reason we’ve done that in the context of cancer is these clusters alert the immune system in a much more profound way than single particles would.”
Sayour highlighted the rapid and signifcant immune response observed in the trial. “In
less than 48 hours, we could see these tumours shifting from what we refer to as ‘cold’—with very few immune cells and a silenced immune response—to ‘hot,’ with a very active immune response,” he said. “This quick activation of the early immune system is critical for unlocking the later effects of the immune response.”
Patients participating in the trial lived longer than expected, although it is too early to determine the full clinical effects of the vaccine. The current standard treatments for brain cancers like glioblastoma include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Next Steps for the Vaccine
The next phase of the
vaccine development involves expanding the clinical trial to include up to 24 adult and paediatric patients. This expansion aims to further validate the vaccine’s effcacy and safety, potentially leading to a new standard of care for brain cancer patients.
The promising results from this initial trial
offer hope for a new, effective treatment strategy against one of the most challenging forms of cancer. If further trials confrm these fndings, the mRNA cancer vaccine could revolutionize the way brain cancer is treated, providing personalized and highly targeted therapy.
Tenants Frustrated by Rise of Third-Party Rental Payment Apps
Tenants across Australia are expressing frustration over the increasing use of third-party RentTech apps for paying rent, which can result in hundreds of dollars in fees annually.
Over 7,000 renters have signed an online petition calling for changes to rental laws to prevent real estate agents from pressuring them into using these apps.
Case in Point:
Margaret’s Experience
Margaret, a tenant in New South Wales, was instructed by her real estate agent, Ray White, to start paying rent through the Ailo app. Despite being told it was the only accepted payment method, she found the process cumbersome and costly.
Ailo, co-founded by Ben White, a former Ray White director, charges fees for direct debits and credit card payments, leaving Margaret to navigate a tedious feefree option.
“The Ailo app was presented as the only accepted method
for paying the rent,” Margaret claimed. “No other options were mentioned. We were told that we had to use the Ailo app from then on. It’s ridiculous. It should not be allowed.”
Under current New South Wales rental laws, tenants must be offered one fee-free method to pay their rent. However, Margaret found the only fee-free method provided by Ailo to be unnecessarily diffcult and time-consuming. She must set up a one-off transaction each month, which takes two days to process.
Wider Issues and Responses
Ray White’s spokesperson denied that tenants were being forced to use the Ailo app, stating, “There is a choice on how to pay the rent, no one is being forced to use the Ailo app.” Ben White, Ailo’s co-founder, claimed that 40% of renters used the app without incurring fees and that Ailo offers the widest range of payment
options for renters.
Similarly, Queensland renter Warren faced pressure to use the OurTenant app for paying rent, which also charges fees for credit card payments. After pushing back and citing Queensland rental laws, Warren managed to continue paying rent through his preferred method.
Advocates and Experts
Weigh In Leo Patterson Ross, CEO of the NSW Tenants’ Union, highlighted the
broader issue of renters feeling powerless, particularly amid the housing crisis. “People don’t feel like they have a lot of choice,” he said. “We’ve got people who are desperate for a home. So they will kind of be pushed into using anything, even if it’s unclear whether it goes against regulations.”
Ross emphasized the need for clearer laws and better regulation.
“The problem is that the regulators aren’t given the resources to actually
regulate the current rules, let alone looking at what’s coming down the pipeline,” he said.
“It’s very disappointing, very frustrating for a lot of people that this hasn’t been addressed.”
Calls for Change
The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) has underscored the urgent need for accessible and appropriate pain management strategies for tradies, who face signifcant health risks due to workplace injuries
and chronic conditions. This call for action echoes the sentiments of tenants seeking relief from the burdens imposed by third-party rental payment apps.
Tradies National Health Month, observed every August, aims to highlight the unique position of physiotherapists in preventing and treating musculoskeletal issues that plague tradies. Similarly, tenants are calling for a re-evaluation of the practices surrounding rental payments to ensure fair treatment and prevent additional fnancial strain.
Conclusion The rise of third-party rental payment apps has sparked signifcant frustration among tenants, who feel pressured into using systems that incur unnecessary fees and complications. As the debate continues, there is a growing call for clearer regulations and better enforcement to protect renters’ rights and ensure fair practices within the rental market.
The Cheapest and Most Expensive Suburbs in Australia to Rent a Room
For many Australians, home ownership is the ultimate dream. However, with the current state of the real estate market, this dream might seem out of reach for some. As a result, renting has become a more feasible option, especially for young Aussies. With the cost of living rising and wage growth stagnating, share house living could be a reality for quite a while. But how does your weekly rent compare to others across the country? A survey by Flatmates.com. au of over 10,000 people has revealed the cheapest and most expensive suburbs in Australia to rent a room, calculated by
the median cost renters pay per week.
Most Expensive Suburbs
Unsurprisingly, the list of most expensive suburbs is dominated by New South Wales. Sydney, notorious for its high rent prices, tops the list with the beachside suburb of Warriewood at a staggering $600 per week ($2400 per month). Other pricey Sydney suburbs include:
• Darling Point: $590 per week
• Sydney CBD: $575 per week
• Bondi Beach: $560 per week
• Bondi Junction: $538 per week For comparison, the
most expensive suburb in Melbourne is St Kilda at $490 per week, while Brisbane’s priciest suburbs are the CBD and Fortitude Valley at $400 per week. Clearly, if you’re looking to save on rent, staying away from popular Sydney suburbs is a wise decision.
Cheapest Suburbs
On the fip side, there are plenty of affordable spots across Australia. The cheapest suburb to rent a room is Hawthorndene in the Adelaide Hills, at just $140 per week.
Other affordable suburbs include:
• High Wycombe, Western Australia: $150 per week
• Tolmans Hill, Tasmania: $150 per week
• Torrensville, South Australia: $165 per week
• Davoren Park, South Australia: $165 per week
It seems Adelaide, known as the city of churches, might be the ideal place if you’re looking to save money while renting.
Growing Trend of Share House Living With the economic situation as it is, it’s best to secure a cheap rental quickly before the secret’s out. The survey found that more people are turning to share house living amid the cost of living crisis and the tight rental market. Almost half of the respondents said they
chose to live with others because they couldn’t afford to live alone.
This trend is evident among both renters and homeowners, who are leasing spare rooms to offset rising interest rates and fnancial challenges.
Flatmates.com.au reported that the fastestgrowing demographic of members on their site last year were those aged 55 to 64, followed by those aged 65 to 74.
“Australians are looking for new ways to navigate the rental crisis and tackle the rising cost of living,” said Flatmates. com.au community manager Claudia Conley. “Over the past year, our
audience has grown in size and diversity, and with the peak season for share accommodation at our doorstep, we expect demand for share house living to grow.”
Finally
If you’ve got a good deal on your share house, consider yourself fortunate. And if not, it might be time to explore these more affordable suburbs and try to snag a bargain rental. Remember, living in a share house has its perks – live-in friends and always having someone to binge-watch Netfix with doesn’t sound too bad. Good luck!
Grape Expectations by Max Crus
Max Crus is a Clarence Valley-based wine writer and Grape Expectations is now in its 28th year of publication. Find out more about Max or sign up for his weekly reviews and musings by visiting
Conga-line of envoys.
It started with the referendum for an indigenous voice, to which Australia said collectively, “yeah, nah”.
Australians made a stand and made it clear that no group should be singled out when it comes to parliamentary advice… except miners, bankers, pharmacists, doctors, big accounting frms, coal, oil and gas producers, loggers, Christians and Jews.
Fair enough, if we gave everyone a voice, where would we be then? Struth,
Beach Hut (Wine of Australia) Cabernet Merlot 2022, $14 . Looks and sounds like a wine you would buy at Bali, although I’ve never been there. Amazingly it is quite palatable and indeed you would be happy to be served this at a beach bar or gallery opening. 8.9/10.
Beach Hut (Wine of
imagine having the Greens and Independents in power, what a mess that would be, you know, like having, umm, a coalition running the place.
Then it was Laura Tingle remarking (sotto voce) that Australians are actually pretty racist, which the PM and Dutton went ballistic to refute, frothing at the mouth while quietly ignoring the referendum, Adam Goodes, Eddie Betts and the ABC’s incredible production of “I Was Actually There”, an episode of which revisits
Australia) Sauvignon Blanc 2023, $14. Another variety in a range that has no pretensions, least of all in name, but like the venerable Jacob’s Creek, offers really decent wine for very little sacrifce. 9.2/10.
Beach Hut (Wine of Australia) Shiraz 2021, $14. Doesn’t get any more
the famous Nicky Winmar incident, including the remarks of the Collingwood Football Club’s then president - “When they start acting like white people, we won’t have a problem”.
You might think that was in the 1950s or the 1800s, but nope, 1994, and that’s just in sport, where supposedly we love our indigenous brethren!
Then when a female senator called Fatima quit and the possibility of a Muslim faith-based political party emerged, both Albo
Australian than Beach and shiraz, does it? Put the two together and all you need is a sheila and a sausage to share it with. 9/10.
Crittenden Mornington Peninsula The Zumma’ Pinot Noir 2021, $65. This really should be cellared for as long as you can bear. It’s fne now but surely rounder
and Dutton cried ‘divisive’, politely ignoring Christian faith-based parties in the room before wandering off to recite the Lord’s Prayer at the opening of Parliament.
Thirty nano-seconds later, Albo appointed a Special Envoy for the Protection from Criticism of Israel for Killing 30,000 Palestinians (because apparently a number of people said this was bad, including the International Court of Justice).
Of course, at the last
and softer in ten years, as evidenced by previous versions of this jewel of the Crittenden crown. Wait! 9.5/10. Crittenden Estate Mornington Peninsula ‘Grumpy’ Pinot Noir 2022, $55. How can you go past a wine called ‘Grumpy’ with a portrait of Grumpy on the label
minute it was announced there would also be, whenever, a ‘Special Envoy for the Muslim Community to Please Stop Complaining Because We Don’t Include You’ to balance the ledger, but what’s the hurry?
Well, while we’re at it, how about a Special Envoy For People Who Don’t Believe In God? Too divisive too? Okay, maybe a Special Envoy for Agnostics just in case, or better yet, a Special Envoy for Hypocrisy that we can all be a part of?
by a ten-year-old called Digby? ‘Best named wine of the week’, hands down, and also the best pinot. Seriously good gear despite being the plaything of largely retired, Mornington’s Prince of Pinot, Garry Crittenden. 9.5/10.
Crittenden Mornington Peninsula Geppetto
Just so long as it’s not a Special Envoy for Indigenous People. No religious group has a following of more than 43.9 percent of the population (Christians), which is exactly the proportion of Aussies who drink wine, so shouldn’t a Special Envoy for Wine would be up there on the list? Albo, my resumé is in the post and here’s a few wines to go with it:
Sparkling Cuvee, NV $24. Being in the mood for sparkling, and a warm sunny afternoon really lends itself to feeling positive about life generally and can lift the quality of the wine substantially. And vice versa. 9.3/10.
Max Crus
WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?
From simple meals to show-stopping feasts, there’s something for everyone.
EASY SLOW-COOKER LASAGNE
30m prep 4h 25m cook 6
INGREDIENTS
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1kg veal mince
• 90g (1/3 cup) tomato paste
• 125ml (1/2 cup) red wine
• 680g Sause Bolognese
• 250ml (1 cup) chicken style liquid stock
• 1 tbsp dried oregano leaves
• 600ml ctn pouring cream
• 3 eggs, lightly whisked
• 300g (3 cups) coarsely grated three cheese mix
• 250g pkt dried lasagne sheets
• Fresh curly parsley leaves, to serve
METHOD
1. Heat the oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Cook the mince, stirring with a wooden spoon to break up any lumps, for 10 minutes or until the mince changes colour. Add the tomato paste. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute to coat. Add the wine. Cook for
SLOW COOKER KOREAN BEEF
1 minute or until the wine evaporates. Add the pasta sauce, stock and oregano. Season. Simmer for 10 minutes or until reduced slightly.
2. Meanwhile, whisk the cream and eggs in a bowl until well combined. Season. Stir in 2 cups cheese.
3. Grease the insert of a 3.5L slow cooker. Spread a thin layer of the mince mixture over the base of the insert. Cover with a layer of lasagne sheets, breaking the sheets to ft, if necessary. Drizzle one-ffth of the cream mixture over the lasagne sheets and top with one-quarter of the remaining mince mixture. Continue layering with remaining lasagne sheets, cream mixture and mince mixture, fnishing with a layer of cream mixture. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese.
4. Cook on Low for 3 1/2 - 4 hours or until the lasagne sheets are tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Carefully remove the insert from the slow cooker. Set aside, covered, for 10-15 minutes to rest. Sprinkle with parsley.
HEALTHY BANANA BREAD
20m prep 55m cook
12 servings
INGREDIENTS
• 100g (1 cup) coconut four
• 160g (1 1/4 cups) wholemeal spelt four
• 3 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 40g (1/2 cup) desiccated coconut
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 50g (1/3 cup) coconut or rapadura sugar
• 3 large bananas, mashed (310g fesh), plus 1 extra, for decoration
• 3 eggs
• 80ml (1/3 cup) olive oil
• 160ml (2/3 cup) oat, soy or rice milk
• Maple syrup, to serve (optional)
METHOD
1. Preheat oven to 180C/ 160C fan forced. Grease and line a 7.5cm deep, 22.5 x 8.5cm (base measurement) loaf pan with non-stick baking paper, allowing the long sides to overhang.
2. Combine the fours, baking powder, coconut, cinnamon and sugar in a large bowl. Make a well in the centre. Add the banana, eggs, oil and milk and stir to combine. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Smooth surface. Very fnely slice the remaining banana. Place banana slices, overlapping each over, to cover the entire surface of the loaf.
3. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean when inserted in the centre. Slice and serve with a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
Who needs takeout when it takes just 10 minutes to prepare this slow cooker Korean beef? Simply get all your ingredients together and let the slow cooker work its magic. The beef melts in your mouth with every bite thanks to the sweet and savoury favours of the bulgogi sauce (which can be found in the Asian section of the supermarket), onion, garlic and ginger. The smoky notes from the sauce also infuse into the meat, and the addition of toasted sesame seeds on top show how easy it is to create a rich and complex favour profle with such simple ingredients. The beef mixture can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making it perfect to have for leftovers. If you ask me, this recipe has the same strengths as a curry - it tastes even better the next day!
INGREDIENTS
• 1kg beef chuck steak, cut into 3cm pieces
• 1 brown onion, fnely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, fnely chopped
• 5cm piece ginger, grated
• 2 x 240g jars bulgogi sauce and marinade
• 1 tbsp cornfour
• 2 green shallots, thinly sliced diagonally
• Toasted sesame seeds, to serve
• Steamed rice, to serve METHOD
1. Combine the beef, onion, garlic, ginger and bulgogi sauce in a slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours 30 minutes or until beef is almost tender.
2. Place the cornfour and 1 tsp water in a small bowl and stir to combine. Stir into beef mixture and cook, covered, for 30 minutes or until sauce has thickened and beef is tender.
3. Top beef with shallots and sesame seeds and serve with steamed rice.
Choosing the Right Screen Types for Your Garden
Gardens are places of beauty, tranquillity, and productivity. However, maintaining a perfect garden often requires some strategic planning, especially when it comes to privacy, wind protection, and aesthetic enhancement. One essential element in achieving these goals is the use of garden screens.
1. Living Screens
Hedges and Bushes: Living screens are natural and can seamlessly blend into the garden environment. Hedges, such as boxwood, privet, and yew, are popular choices. They provide dense coverage, are excellent for privacy, and can be trimmed to maintain a neat appearance. Flowering bushes like
hydrangeas or roses can add seasonal colour and fragrance to your garden while also serving as a natural screen.
Bamboo: Bamboo is another fantastic option for a living screen. It grows quickly, provides dense coverage, and adds a tropical feel to the garden. However, it’s important to choose clumping bamboo varieties to avoid the invasive spread of running bamboo.
Climbing Plants: Climbing plants like ivy, clematis, or wisteria can be trained to grow on trellises, fences, or pergolas, creating a lush green screen. They are excellent for adding vertical interest and can also provide shade and habitat for wildlife.
2. Wooden Screens
Trellises and Lattices:
Wooden trellises and lattices are versatile and can support climbing plants or stand alone as decorative elements. They offer partial privacy and can be designed in various patterns to complement the garden’s style. Cedar and redwood are ideal choices due to their natural resistance to rot and insects.
Fences: Wooden fences, such as picket, stockade, or shadowbox styles, provide solid privacy and can be customised in height and design. They can be stained or painted to match the garden’s aesthetic. While more permanent than living screens, wooden fences require regular maintenance to prevent decay.
3. Metal Screens
Wrought Iron: Wrought iron screens are both functional and decorative. They are durable, can withstand harsh weather, and can be designed with intricate patterns. These screens can support climbing plants and add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the garden.
Aluminium and Steel: Modern aluminium or steel screens offer sleek, contemporary options for garden privacy. They are low-maintenance,
rust-resistant, and can be powder-coated in various colours. Lasercut designs can add an artistic element to the garden, making them not just functional but also a focal point.
4. Plastic and Composite Screens
Vinyl Fencing: Vinyl fencing is a popular choice for those seeking a low-maintenance, durable option. It comes in various styles and colours, mimicking the appearance of wood without the need for painting or staining. Vinyl is resistant to rot, insects, and UV damage, making it a long-lasting choice for garden screens.
Composite Materials: Composite screens, made from a blend of wood fbres and plastic, offer the natural look of wood with the durability of plastic. They are resistant to weathering, insects, and decay, and can be an eco-friendly option if made from recycled materials.
5. Fabric and Natural
Material Screens
Shade Cloths and Outdoor Fabrics: Shade cloths and outdoor fabrics can be used to create temporary or seasonal screens. They are ideal for providing shade, reducing wind, and creating a cozy, private space. Available
in various colours and patterns, they can be draped over pergolas, hung from structures, or used as roll-up blinds.
Bamboo and Reed Fencing: Natural material screens, such as bamboo or reed fencing, offer an organic, rustic look. They are relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and blend well with natural garden settings. While they may not provide complete privacy or wind protection, they are excellent for adding texture and a tropical vibe.
Choosing the Right Screen for Your Garden
When selecting the right screen for your garden, consider the following factors:
Purpose: Determine the primary purpose of the screen. Is it for privacy, wind protection, shade, or purely decorative? This will help narrow down the options.
Aesthetic: Consider the overall style of your garden. Choose screens that complement the existing design elements, whether it’s a modern, rustic, cottage, or tropical garden.
Maintenance: Think about the level of maintenance you’re willing to commit to. Living screens require regular pruning and care, while wooden and metal screens need
occasional upkeep. Vinyl and composite screens are low-maintenance options.
Budget: Factor in your budget. Living screens can be cost-effective initially but may require more investment in maintenance. Wooden and metal screens vary in price, with wrought iron and custom designs being more expensive. Vinyl and composite screens offer a balance of affordability and durability.
Climate: Consider your local climate. Choose materials that can withstand the weather conditions in your area. For example, metal screens may be more suitable for areas with high humidity, while wooden screens may fare better in dry climates.
Conclusion Garden screens are essential elements that can enhance the beauty, functionality, and privacy of your garden. Whether you opt for living screens, wooden fences, metal designs, or fabric solutions, there is a wide range of options to suit every garden style and need. By carefully considering the purpose, aesthetic, maintenance, budget, and climate, you can select the perfect screen type to create your ideal garden sanctuary.
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RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS
GRAFTON
BROUGHT TO YOU BY DONOVAN LIVESTOCK & PROPERTY PH: 02 6643 4411
GRAFTON FAT CATTLE SALE 23/07/2024
399 TOTAL HEAD YARDED
280 EXPORT 119 YOUNG CATTLE
Similar numbers came forward for Grafton’s Fortnightly Fat Cattle Sale. Quality and condition was surprisingly good, considering the time of year and current wintery conditions. Compared to 2 weeks ago the market lifted substantially for all categories, even though not all buyers
CASINO
NRLX MARKET REPORT
WEEK ENDING JULY 24, 2024
YARDING: 2,170 HEAD
The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) experienced an increased yarding today with a total of 2,170 head, largely due to the infux of weaner cattle. While the quality of cattle continues to decline, with many plainconditioned young cattle being sold, there were still several lines of well-bred weaner steers and heifers available.
Weaner Market
The weaner market showed variation throughout the sale, impacted by the absence of some usual buyers. This resulted in weaners selling frm to 20 cents
WARWICK
operated. Heavy bullocks sold to a top of 316c/kg, heifers also sold strong reaching 300c/kg. Although cows didn’t quite crack the 300c/kg mark, the market was very strong, especially for the leaner grades. A good yarding of heavy bulls sold exceptionally well to top at 278.2c/kg. Quality restocker steers saw solid competition selling to 420.2c/kg while their sisters sold to a top of 320.2c/kg.
HIGHLIGHTS
A/c DG & BJ Scott sold Brahman Cross Bullocks 313.2c/ kg averaged 708.8kg $2,219.81 p/hd
A/c Andrew Ensbey sold Brangus Bullocks 312.2c/kg averaged 635kg - $1,982.47 p/hd
A/c CO Austen & Sons sold a Charolais Cross Heifer 300c/kg weighed 695kg - $2,085.00
cheaper, depending on weight and quality.
• Restocker Weaner Steers: Sold from 336c to 398c, averaging between 334c to 346c/ kg.
• Restocker Weaner Heifers: Sold from 200c to 340c/kg, with better quality heifers fetching higher prices.
Yearling Steers
• Yearling Steers (to feed and restock): Sold from 300c to 338c/ kg.
Export Cattle
The yarding of export cattle mainly consisted of cows, with a small penning of grown steers and heifers.
• Grown Steers: Topped at 300c/kg.
• Grown Heifers: Sold up to 286c/kg. Cows
The mixed yarding of cows saw
LIVESTOCK MARKET REPORT WARWICK & DISTRICT W/E 26/07/2024
Market numbers remained stable for cattle, while there was a noticeable increase in sheep and lamb numbers. The trade and export lambs shared the spotlight with a larger presence of trade lambs and mutton, along with a good run of export mutton. Pork and poultry numbers remained subdued, and prices across most categories were frm to slightly higher.
Cattle Prices:
• Vealer Steers: Average 342.6c/kg, topping at 440c/kg ($756.84 to $1126.27)
• Vealer Heifers: Average 291.3c/kg, topping at 318.2c/ kg ($672.65 to $996.52)
• Feeder Steers: Average 317c/kg, topping at 367.2c/kg ($1155.09 to $1887.00)
• Feeder Heifers: Average 267.4c/kg, topping at 306.2c/kg ($859.13 to $1445.31)
• Yearling Steers: Average 358.9c/kg, topping at 400c/ kg ($923.43 to $1581.93)
• Yearling Heifers: Average 303.7c/kg, topping at 396.2c/kg ($968.60 to $1763.09)
• Steers: Average 336.6c/kg, topping at 353.2c/kg ($2117.10 to $2551.87)
• Heifers: Average 287.8c/kg, topping at 328.2c/kg ($1262.60 to $2034.84)
• Manufacturing Steers: Average and topped at 234.2c/ kg ($866.54)
• Cows: Average 261c/kg, topping at 309.2c/kg
A/c Chris Hall sold a Charolais Cow 286.2c/kg weighed 775kg - $2,218.05
A/c Chris Hall sold Charolais Heifers 284.2c/kg averaged 592.5kg - $1,683.89 p/hd
A/c CO Austen & Sons sold Angus Cows 276.2c/kg averaged 555kg - $1,532.91 p/hd
A/c Karen Fahey sold Belmont Red Cross Cows 276.2c/ kg averaged 494kg - $1,364.43 p/hd
A/c Tony McLennan sold an Angus Heifer 280.2c/kg
medium and heavy weights hold frm, while plain-conditioned cows were cheaper by 5c/kg.
• Medium 2 Score Cows:
($1363.79 to $2226.50)
Sold from 228c to 259c/kg.
• 3 Score Medium Weight Cows: Averaged 264c/kg.
• 4 Score Cows: Ranged from 272c to 292c/kg.
• Bulls: Average 290.9c/kg, topping at 356.2c/kg
($1924.72 to $3036.96) Sheep and Lamb Prices:
• Lambs: Topped at $240, average $134.19 (down $13)
• Hoggets: Topped at $143, average $112.17 (up $4)
• Ewes: Topped at $108, average $69.85 (down $3)
• Wethers: Topped at $120, average $78.17 (up $25)
• Rams: Topped at $102, average $66.53 (down $4)
• Lamb Rams: Topped at $124, average $79.23 (down $22)
The overall sale average for the 3239 head yarded was $118.48, a decrease of $3/head from the previous sale. Pork and Poultry Prices:
• Sows: $265 to $370
• Pork: $151 to $178
• Stores: $39 to $191
• Roosters: Sold to $20
• Hens: Sold to $35
• Chickens: Sold to $25
• Trios: Sold to $20
• Pullets: Sold to $32.50
• Call Ducks: Sold to $12.50
• Hen & Chicks: Sold to $75
McDOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT Agents and vendors yarded a total of 3239 head for the weekly sale, a signifcant increase reminiscent of the big dry times. The yarding was comprised of an 80/20 split between lambs and mutton. The lambs topped at $240, averaging $134.19 (down $13), while hoggets topped at $143, averaging $112.17 (up $4). Ewes topped at $108, averaging $69.85 (down $3), and wethers topped at $120, averaging $78.17 (up $25). Rams topped at $102, averaging $66.53 (down $4), and lamb rams topped at
Overall, the market refected the current conditions with variability in prices depending on the quality and weight of the cattle presented.
$124, averaging $79.23 (down $22). The total yarding average was $118.48, down $3/head. Notable Sales:
• Julia Simmons: Dorper lambs 66kg sold to Take IT Easy Meats for $231, 54.2kg to Eversons for $198, 49kg to Leslie Lamb for $176, 31.25kg to restockers for $77. Hoggets and wethers 55kg to Eversons for $104. Ewes to Thomas Foods for $108 and to Eversons for $70.
• Norma Chalk: Dorper lambs 54kg sold to Eversons for $190.
• Colin & Ainsley Cobalt: Dorper lambs 57kg sold to Thomas Foods for $198, 50kg to Leslie Lamb for $176.
• Armstrong Family: Dorper x lambs 48kg sold to Eversons for $180, 48kg to restockers for $183, 45kg to GR Prime for $155, 46kg to Eversons for $162.
• Giltrow Family: Dorper lambs 46kg sold to Eversons for $170, 42kg to Jock Young Meats for $150, 40.5kg to Shelley F?T for $130, 39kg to Hurley & Weiss for $120, 38.5kg to restockers for $107.
• Dugald & Vicki Marshall: Dorset x lambs 48kg sold to GR Prime for $148.
• Balonne Plains P/S: Dorper lambs 45kg sold to Jock Young Meats for $150, 45kg to GR Prime for $145, 42kg to GR Prime for $140.50, 42kg to GR Prime for $135, 36kg to restockers for $122. 60kg hoggets to GR Prime for $130.
• Suttor Family: 1stx Dorset lambs 32kg sold to restockers for $82. Merino ewes to Eversons for $55.
• Bennett Family: Dorper wethers 75kg sold to Thomas Foods for $92.
This comprehensive market report highlights the dynamic nature of the livestock market and provides valuable insights for stakeholders across the industry.
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The Pearl Picnic: Celebrating 62 Years of The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman Award
In celebration of sixty-two years of The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman award, alumni from across New South Wales are invited to the ‘Pearl Picnic’ to honor the Young Woman movement. This event will take place at this year’s Condobolin Show on Saturday, August 24th. The Pearl Picnic will be hosted by The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman 2023 Winner, Florance McGuffcke, and Rural Ambassador and 2008 Runner-up, Lyndsey Douglas.
Florance McGuffcke, the 2023 winner,
explained that the idea for the inaugural Pearl Picnic stemmed from a desire to celebrate and connect with the women who have been part of the competition over its 62-year history. “The experience that bonds us all is so unique, and we wish to honor that bond and experience by creating a day where we can come together and celebrate it,” McGuffcke said.
“Our alumni consist of incredible, inspiring, and passionate women brought together by a love for community, a passion for agriculture, and a desire for personal growth and professional
development. Through the Pearl Picnic, we hope to unite friends, both old and new, from all stages of the competition, whether at local, zone, or state levels, across the competition’s 62 years, and bring these inspiring women together while supporting a local agshow.”
Attendees are encouraged to wear their pearls, bring a plate of food, throw down a picnic rug, wear their hometown sash with pride, and enjoy a wonderful day at the Condobolin Show.
The Land Sydney Royal AgShows
NSW Young Woman competition takes place annually across the state, beginning at local agricultural shows, progressing through regional zones, and culminating at the state level during the Sydney Royal Easter Show. The competition aims to broaden the experiences of young rural women, strengthen their communication skills, boost their confdence, connect like-minded individuals, and equip them with the tools to become future leaders within their communities and champions of regional excellence.
Today, the competition continues to play a signifcant role in the development of rural women and their communities. “The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman participants all display great insight and knowledge about the very real issues facing rural NSW. They are deeply involved in their communities and are dedicated, confdent, and ftting ambassadors. It is a highly rewarding experience, where you meet incredible friends, mentors, and advocates, and provides endless opportunities,” McGuffcke shared.
“By hosting a Pearl Picnic each year, we hope to keep this camaraderie and connection going once the competition itself ends, because imagine what we can accomplish together.”
Tickets to the Inaugural Pearl Picnic are free but must be ‘purchased’ via the QR code below.
NFF Welcomes Progress on Mergers Reform
The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has expressed its support for the progress on national merger and acquisition reform, which aims to encourage investment and strengthen competition in Australia.
The Federal Government has released draft legislation for the new system, which seeks to improve the effciency and transparency of the review process and grant the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) greater power to scrutinize transactions.
NFF Chief Executive Tony Mahar emphasized the importance of these reforms in enhancing Australia’s competitive landscape. “We’ve stated for a long time that mergers and acquisition reform is central to improving competition.
We welcome the release
of the draft legislation as an important and tangible step forward,” said Mr. Mahar. Key Points of the Reform
• Competitive Supply Chain: Mr. Mahar highlighted the necessity of a competitive supply chain for Australian
agriculture, noting that appropriate competition settings are crucial for better outcomes for both producers and consumers.
• Balanced Legislation: He stressed the importance of balancing the need for a review process that
encourages economic investment with the establishment of a robust framework to protect Australian producers and consumers from any reductions in competition.
• Expert Advisory: Mr. Mahar also welcomed the
appointment of Andrea Gomes da Silva as an independent expert advisor, recognizing her extensive experience, which will bolster the reform process. Consultation and Engagement
The NFF is actively engaged in the
consultation process for the Treasury Laws Amendment Bill 2024: Acquisitions. This involvement underscores the NFF’s commitment to ensuring that the legislation effectively balances investment encouragement with competition protection.
“We believe this legislation, with the right balance, can lead to a more competitive and fair market, benefting all stakeholders involved in the agricultural supply chain,” Mr. Mahar concluded.
The NFF looks forward to continuing its participation in the consultation process and contributing to the development of a more competitive economic environment for Australia’s agriculture sector.
2024 Young Woman Winner Dominique Wyse, Runner Up Paris Capell, Queensland's 2023 Showgirl Isabella Hanson, 2023 Winner Florance McGuffcke, and 2023 Runner Up, Jess Towns.
2023 The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman Florance McGuffcke and Runner Up Jess Towns with previous RAS President, Michael Millner.
2024 The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman.
Anti-Farming Report a Cheap Shot at Agriculture
By Robert Heyward
The nation’s peak farm body has strongly criticized the Australian Conservation Foundation’s (ACF) “The Future of Food Report,” labelling it as an ill-informed attack on farmers and the food companies they supply. The report criticizes supermarkets and food businesses for not setting deforestation targets, a stance that has drawn ire from the agricultural community.
National Farmers’ Federation President David Jochinke expressed deep disappointment over the report.
“Peddling this kind of ideology spreads harmful misinformation and completely ignores the facts,” said Jochinke.
“Infammatory language suggesting that when people are just trying to feed their families, they’re contributing to wildlife extinction is extremely poor form.
It’s a transparent attempt to line their fundraising coffers by beating up on household brands that buy from Aussie farmers.”
Jochinke emphasized the crucial role that farmers play in caring for and improving Australia’s natural environment, pointing out that they manage more than half of the nation’s landmass. “It’s in their best interests to do this, and they do it on behalf of all Australians,” he added.
He also highlighted Australia’s stringent regulatory framework, noting that the country’s land clearing rates are among the lowest in the world and continue to decline. “Evidence shows in Queensland, clearing has dropped 50% year on year, and 80% of what is being cleared is repeat management of woody regrowth required to maintain a healthy biodiversity balance,” Jochinke explained.
Beyond state and territory regulations around land clearing, the farm sector is collaborating closely with the Federal
Government on environmental reform through the Nature Positive Bill. The sector has also developed a comprehensive framework to demonstrate sustainable agricultural practices, addressing greenhouse gas emissions, soil and landscape management, biodiversity, water usage, and resource management.
Jochinke highlighted the achievements of the agricultural sector in emissions reduction.
“Farmers are working hard to balance the sustainable production of food and fbre while managing complex landscapes as part of the ongoing emissions reduction journey.
The red meat sector has already reduced its emissions by about 59% compared to 2005 levels.”
Jochinke extended an invitation to the ACF to visit farms and witness the efforts being made towards emissions reduction frsthand.
“We’d encourage the Foundation to step out of its offce in Carlton and visit farmers to see the work they are doing towards emissions reduction on behalf of all Australians.”
He criticized any campaign that undermines these achievements, stating that such efforts lack research and credibility and fail to acknowledge the challenges farmers face regarding emissions reduction and land management. “It’s imperative policy is driven by science and tailored to Australia’s unique environment, not based on ideology,” Jochinke concluded.
Finally, The National Farmers’ Federation is calling for a more informed and balanced discussion on the role of agriculture in environmental sustainability, urging policymakers and advocacy groups to recognize the substantial progress and ongoing efforts of Australian farmers in managing their land responsibly and reducing emissions.
Minns Labor Government Delivers Independent Biosecurity Commissioner
The Minns Labor Government has fulflled a key election promise by appointing an Independent Biosecurity Commissioner, a move aimed at safeguarding the future of regional communities and the agriculture sector in New South Wales.
Premier Chris Minns announced the appointment of Dr. Marion Healy PSM as the state’s frst Independent Biosecurity Commissioner at the NSW Farmers Association annual state conference. Dr. Healy, who has served as the interim Commissioner since June 2023, holds a PhD in molecular genetics and has over twenty years of experience in senior roles across government and industry. She was awarded a Public Service Medal in 2021 for her outstanding public service in policy and regulatory practice.
This appointment follows the passing of the Biosecurity Amendment (Independent Biosecurity Commissioner) Bill in November 2023 and strengthens the $945.7 million biosecurity protection program announced in the recent budget. Dr. Healy will provide independent and impartial advice to the Parliament and Government on the program’s effectiveness and potential improvements.
Supporting this initiative, Rachel Connell has been appointed as the Deputy Secretary of Agriculture and Biosecurity in the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, and Kate Lorimer-Ward as the frst female CEO of Local Land Services. Lorimer-Ward will work closely with the new Local Land Services State Board Chair, Tess Herbert, who brings over 30 years of experience
in the red meat industry, agriculture policy research, development, and marketing.
Biosecurity threats cost New South Wales approximately $2.4 billion annually due to invasive species, pests, and weeds. The Minns Labor Government is committed to addressing these challenges, recognizing their signifcant impact on local agriculture and the economy.
Premier Chris Minns stated:
“I’ve visited country towns all across the state to hear frsthand about the issues facing regional New South Wales – whether it’s Red Fire Ants in the north, or feral pigs in the Riverina, my government is determined to take meaningful action.
“We know that we cannot address these issues without working directly with local communities, and these appointments will play a vital role in ensuring that voices on the ground are heard and refected in our government’s approach to biosecurity.
“Prior to the election I heard from many advocates about the importance of appointing a Biosecurity Commissioner who was independent of government, and I am proud that today we can announce we have delivered on that commitment.
“Congratulations to Dr. Healy, I look forward to working with her on the big task ahead of ensuring our state’s
farmers and regional communities can continue to thrive, with confdence that the NSW Government is taking biosecurity seriously.”
NSW Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty added:
“The Minns Government is committed to protecting our primary industries and investing in strengthening our biosecurity defences, management and performance. The development of the Biosecurity Commissioner role and the appointment of Dr. Healy is a milestone for the sector.
“Dr. Healy is wellrespected by her peers across the industry and her biosecurity expertise will ensure the independent biosecurity commission is equipped and ready on day one to build and strengthen the resilience of our agriculture industry.
“I congratulate Dr. Marion Healy, Tess Herbert, Rachel Connell, and Kate Lorimer-Ward on their appointments and look forward to working alongside them as they focus on their important roles that support our farmers.
“This is a momentous time to see so many incredible professional women appointed to roles that support biosecurity and primary industries across the state.”
“It is an honour to be appointed to this role and I commend the NSW Government
for its commitment to prioritising this growing issue.
“I have spent many years working to protect our industries and environment from pests and diseases and I very much look forward to working hand in hand with government, landholders and communities utilizing the strong and valuable relationships I have built during my career.
“Collaboration and coordination will be key to success as biosecurity is a shared responsibility. I know how hard farmers work to fght invasive pests and weeds on their land, I will work to ensure they are not doing this alone.
“It’s estimated that weeds and invasive species cost the state’s agriculture sector almost $2 billion a year, and as we all know too well pests and weeds don’t stop at the fence, their impacts go well beyond the farm-gate.”
Incoming Local Land Services Board Chair
Tess Herbert said:
“As a former member of the Central Tablelands Local Land Services Board, it’s exciting to be appointed the state Board Chair because I recognize the importance of the organisation, and how the Board supports the success of Local Land Services.
“I look forward to leading the strategic direction and supporting the governance of the organisation so it can continue to make valuable, on-the-ground connections with landholders, especially as we move towards a greater focus on how we manage land.
“Local Land Services plays an important role in regional and rural NSW, and through my position in governance, I want to highlight the real value we can offer to rate payers and land managers right across the state.”
Interim Biosecurity Commissioner Dr Marion Healy. Picture supplied DPI
In the 1850’s Wardell was a cedar getter settlement known as “Blackall”, where two sawmills functioned and the river trade fourished. Wardell is a village situated on the Richmond River between Broadwater and Ballina. It is known by the landmark “Lift” Bridge which was built to replace the ferries and barges used for transporting Australian Red Cedar timber and Sugar Cane as far back as 1880.
The residents of Wardell expressed that a ferry was essential to the smooth running of the district with a reliable mail service. A petition was put forward in the 1860’s to have their own Post Offce in Wardell. Prior to the frst Postmaster, Mr James Kennedy in 1870, the residents of the Wardell area had to pick up their mail in Ballina.
The frst ferry to operate at Wardell was a hand winched ferry that ran only on one cable. This ferry was replaced by 1935. Laurie Clifford started working on the Wardell Ferry as a casual operator in 1939, at the age of 16 years. He worked there for 2 years before enlisting in the Army. Bill Cooper had the contract to operate the ferry at the time, where the ferry was managed by Tintenbar Shire Council. The contract was worth £32 per month, from which he paid Laurie £10 a month for driving. There was no toll on the Wardell Ferry.
Traffc over the Wardell Crossing in the late 1930’s required ten ferry crossings per day of fve minutes duration.
The traffc was mostly made up of horse and sulky and the occasional farmer crossing with stock going to market.
Laurie Clifford went back to work on the ferry in the late 1950’s during the season when he was not cutting cane. He worked for Jack Thompson who had the contract at the time. Laurie drove the Wardell Ferry on the last crossing it made on 10th April 1964, the day the bridge was opened. The ferry on the Wardell crossing during the late 1950’s early 1960’s was a six car Oregon Ferry., powered by a diesel motor. The ferry was made locally at Barrons Engineering at Ballina at a cost of £14,000.
On 10th April 1964 the Minister for Highways and Local Government, Mr P.D. Hills M.L.A. opened the new Wardell Bridge. It changed the course of the Pacifc Highway which had followed River Drive to South Ballina and then crossing over on the Burns Point Ferry.
The Wardell Ferry was transferred to the Burns Point crossing when the bridge opened on 10th April 1964.
Ferry Drivers: Tony Burns, Bill Hulwell, Jack Thompson, Barry Clifford, Jim Bonser,
New Bridge at Broadwater on the way to Wardell Wardell Bridge
Wardell Bridge
Driving Farm Safety: Farmsafe Australia Campaign Focuses on Vehicle and Machinery Safety
Farmsafe Australia is emphasizing the crucial importance of vehicle and machinery safety. Simple, effective strategies such as regular maintenance, wearing seatbelts, and providing thorough inductions can signifcantly reduce the risk of incidents and injuries. Recognizing that farm safety must be practical to be adopted by farmers, the campaign aims to instill a culture where every farmer and worker acknowledges the life-saving impact of habits like buckling up.
Farm vehicles and machinery are indispensable tools in modern agriculture, but their operation comes with inherent risks. By adopting straightforward safety measures, farmers can create a safer working environment and enhance overall productivity. Following six farm businesses across the country, the campaign showcases practical solutions being used to create safer farms and safer farmers.
Irvine Wines and Karu Harvesting in Angaston, South Australia, ensure their teams are properly inducted, their machinery is regularly maintained, and their workers have access to PPE and other protective measures to address challenges around vehicle and machinery safety. With staff working on multiple vineyards and seasonal workers being crucial to operations, thorough inductions and monthly staff meetings ensure clear communication about workplace hazards.
Consistently wearing seatbelts, performing regular machinery checks, and adhering to proper protocols may seem minor, but these practices collectively build a foundation of safety that protects everyone. These simple, routine practices
prevent injuries, reduce risks, and ensure a culture of vigilance and responsibility. By ingraining these habits, farmers create a safer environment where everyone can work confdently and effciently, knowing that their safety is prioritized through every small, mindful action.
Prioritizing safety not only protects the lives of farm workers but also contributes to the overall effciency and sustainability of agricultural operations. Ensuring that everyone on the farm understands and follows these safety measures is crucial for maintaining a safe and productive working environment. Felicity Richards, Chair of Farmsafe Australia, emphasizes the signifcance of building habits.
“In the daily busyness of life on the farm, we often overlook the simplest safety measures or become complacent about their importance in keeping our business running smoothly and effciently. Wearing seatbelts and proper PPE in vehicles such as tractors and side-by-sides is a fundamental practice that requires daily commitment,” said Mrs. Richards.
“We often hear excuses like, ‘it’s a fat paddock’ or ‘there are too many gates to get in and out of.’ But the reality is, when we carve out exceptions, we compromise safety, and ultimately, that puts lives and limbs at risk. As business owners, we must remain committed to fostering a culture where every journey, no matter how short or fat, is approached with the importance it deserves. In the end, nothing is more important than making sure we all make it home safely.”
Incidents involving farm machinery are a leading cause of injuries and fatalities, with 63% of on-farm fatalities in 2023 attributed to farm vehicles or mobile farm machinery. Regular maintenance and safety protocols are not just good practice—they are essential for protecting farm workers and ensuring the sustainability of a farm business.
Mrs. Richards underscores the practicality of the ‘In Safe Hands’ campaign.
“Farm safety is not about complex solutions; it’s about cultivating habits that safeguard lives day in and day out. Buckling up before every ride is one such simple habit that contributes to a safer farm. Is it hard to slip the seatbelt on every time you get into the tractor? Not really. But telling someone’s family that their loved one isn’t coming home because they were injured at work? That will be the most diffcult thing you ever have to do.”
The ‘In Safe Hands’ campaign, run by Farmsafe Australia throughout the 2024 National Farm Safety Week, encourages farmers, farm workers, and rural communities to view work, health, and safety as simple and practical habits. Through educational initiatives and awareness, Farmsafe Australia aims to highlight that small actions like fastening a seatbelt or maintaining farm vehicles can make a signifcant difference in ensuring everyone’s safety on the farm and making sure that our industry is in safe hands.
Top Strategies for Vehicle and Machinery Safety:
1. Regular Maintenance and Inspections: Conduct regular maintenance and
thorough inspections of all vehicles and machinery to ensure they are in optimal working condition. This helps identify and address potential issues before they become serious hazards. Keeping a detailed maintenance log can aid in tracking the condition and service history of equipment.
2. Wearing Seatbelts: Seatbelts are a fundamental safety feature that can save lives in the event of a rollover or collision. Make wearing seatbelts a mandatory practice for all operators of tractors, machinery, and other farm vehicles such as utes and SSVs.
3. Providing Proper Inductions: Comprehensive inductions for new, seasonal, and returning workers are essential. They should cover the safe operation of all machinery, specifc safety protocols, and emergency procedures. Regular refresher courses help keep all staff updated on safe practices.
4. Creating a Safe Work Environment: Ensure that work areas are free of obstructions and hazards. Clear communication with other workers about the movement and operation of machinery can prevent incidents. Designating specifc zones for machinery operation can further reduce risks.
5. Implementing Safety Protocols: Establish and enforce safety protocols for all farm operations involving vehicles and machinery. This includes guidelines for safe driving, machinery operation, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Regularly reviewing and updating these protocols keeps safety at the forefront.
The NFF appreciates the Committee’s opportunity to address the crucial issue of the 3G network shutdown.
Since its inception in 2006, the 3G network has been a vital lifeline for many Australians, particularly those in regional, rural, and remote areas. For Australian farming families, accessible, reliable, affordable, resilient, and quality connectivity is essential. Reliable mobile connectivity underpins modern agriculture, enabling effcient farm management, market access, and daily business operations. For many without nearby physical alternatives, it also provides crucial access to health care, emergency services, education, social interaction, and overall wellbeing.
In the bush, the 3G network remains a cornerstone of reliable connectivity, often providing a crucial signal during emergencies or natural disasters— sometimes the only alternative to no signal at all.
While we acknowledge
the potential benefts of improving national connectivity through the 3G shutdown, farmers and communities are understandably anxious about the implications. This anxiety is compounded by anecdotal reports of deteriorating and changing mobile service in some areas, along with a general lack of confdence in current complaint processes.
These communities rely on providers for communication, business operations, and access to essential and emergency services. Given existing connectivity barriers, they are likely to bear the brunt of any negative impacts during the transition.
The NFF has critical expectations of providers to ensure a seamless transition and protect the
fundamental needs of regional, rural, and remote communities:
• Connectivity must be equivalent or improved.
• Providers must prioritize accountability and transparency throughout the transition.
• Proactive, robust, and considered efforts must be made to inform consumers and prevent adverse consequences.
• Post-network shutdown issues must be
addressed promptly and effectively, necessitating communication efforts and services beyond the usual business practices. Currently, we are not convinced that all our requirements for this transition have been met, although we acknowledge there are still a few months before the major regional networks implement the shutdown. We remain actively engaged with
network operators, monitoring their progress and holding them accountable for ensuring equivalent or improved coverage for our members.
Primary Concerns:
• Anecdotal reports of diminishing or shifting service leading up to the shutdown.
• Potential for poorer connectivity outcomes post-shutdown.
• Unforeseen impacts on devices, such as agricultural technology and handsets.
• Customers’ ability to raise concerns and resolve issues quickly and effciently.
Further Information: The inquiry: Help for customers:
Support for Farmers to Invest in Natural Capital
The Minns Labor Government is reinforcing its commitment to future-proofng the New South Wales agricultural industry and enhancing farm resilience to climate change by appointing 11 new Natural Capital Advisors. This initiative is part of a $2.5 million investment by the NSW Government into a program managed by Local Land Services, which will now be expanded statewide following these new appointments.
Natural Capital Advisors will provide tailored advice and support to farmers and land managers, helping them understand the opportunities available when investing in Natural Capital. Natural Capital encompasses the value of natural assets on land, such as soil, trees, water, plants, and ecosystems.
Proper management of these assets offers multiple benefts, including increased biodiversity, reduced pollution, and improved air and water quality, all of which enhance a farm’s resilience against climate change. These advisors will engage with farmers to help them grasp the environmental and fnancial opportunities in the growing Environment Market, where natural assets can be bought, sold, and traded for monetary value. The NSW Government aims to position NSW farmers at the forefront of these markets, refecting the increasing importance of environmental outcomes to consumers, investors, banks, and insurers.
Farmers who invest wisely in Natural Capital can earn returns through various environmental market streams, such
as:
• Biodiversity markets: Farmers can create biodiversity credits by managing, restoring, or protecting species or ecosystems on their land.
• Capital asset accounting: Land managers can add the natural assets they manage to their business balance sheet through natural capital accounting methods.
As part of this initiative, NSW Local Land Services will host Natural Capital
Conversation events in August and September. These events will provide landholders with information on managing their natural assets to grow their farm businesses. Attendees will learn about the natural capital on their properties, emerging opportunities, and the associated benefts and risks, enabling them to make informed decisions.
Landholders can register their interest in the NSW Government’s new natural capital
profling service to get a snapshot of their natural assets and potential market opportunities. For more information, visit: www.lls.nsw.gov. au/natural-capital. Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW, and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty, said:
“The NSW Government is committed to working with farmers to futureproof their operations, better protect their land, and expand their revenue streams. We
know that farmers want to make their farms more productive and sustainable, maintain access to markets, and improve natural resources on their farms.
That’s why we’ve invested in this natural capital initiative and appointed 11 natural capital advisors to provide independent information and support to landholders navigating decisions in natural capital management and environmental markets. From today, farmers can contact the advisors to get started on their natural capital journey and be rewarded for good environmental stewardship. We will continue to support farmers to ensure NSW maintains a strong agriculture sector while prioritizing its interests alongside those of our natural environment.”
Mill Pay Dispute Costing Farming Families Millions
CANEGROWERS has welcomed news that Wilmar and the unions representing workers at the company’s nine Queensland sugar mills have accepted a mediation offer from the Fair Work Commission.
CANEGROWERS
Chairman Owen Menkens expressed hope that this mediation marks the beginning of the end for the prolonged pay dispute affecting half the industry and threatening to derail the season.
“Sugarcane farming families have been losing $4 million a day due to strike action at Wilmar mills, causing the crush to fall up to 20% behind schedule in some districts,” Mr. Menkens said.
“It’s been evident for weeks that the parties had reached a negotiation
stalemate, so resolving this issue is long overdue. Communication between the mills and their grower suppliers has been nearly nonexistent, leaving growers in the dark about daily developments. Cane harvesters, contractors, farmers, and farm workers have been operating under complete uncertainty, and they have had enough.”
“There are no winners in this situation, but there are clear losers—the cane growing families whose livelihoods are being devastated. I personally know growers losing tens of thousands daily during stoppages. These farmers have invested millions in growing and preparing this crop for harvest, facing huge bills for fertiliser, chemicals,
staffng, machinery, and maintenance. They are not just losing income; they are unable to service the huge debts that come with farming.”
The ongoing industrial action is the latest issue for a milling sector plagued by performance problems, dragging down the productivity and proftability of the entire industry and impacting the fnancial and mental wellbeing of farming families and communities.
“Certain parts of the milling sector have been underperforming for years, affecting season length, cane quality, and harvesting costs. Every year, cane is left unharvested in the paddock. The inability of some mills to crush the crop within the June to November window
is hurting growers, the industry, and communities reliant on sugarcane for survival,” Mr. Menkens said.
“CANEGROWERS has been working with many milling companies and other industry organizations on this problem. We know how much it is costing the industry and we also know the solution. Milling companies need to invest long-term in their factories and infrastructure. Simply keeping mills running year after year isn’t enough; they need signifcant investments to upgrade and modernize their assets and must train and maintain qualifed staff.”
Mr. Menkens noted that some milling companies have successfully invested and collaborated
with the growing sector, thriving as a result.
“We realize mills, especially older ones, are diffcult to run and maintain. The logistics of moving and crushing 35 million tonnes of cane per year are complex. But it can be done successfully, and we need to work together to achieve this.
“MSF’s Tableland mill is currently crushing at around 97% capacity and should serve as a shining example to those mills
struggling to maintain 70-80% availability.
MSF’s Mulgrave mill has even joined forces with Mossman cane growers to ensure they get their cane crushed this year following the closure of Mossman Mill in 2023.
“This proves that mills can perform well and work collaboratively with growers if they invest properly in their business and the industry more widely.”
The Long-Term Productivity Slowdown - And What We Can Do About It
A new report from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) delves into the persistent productivity slowdown affecting Australian broadacre agriculture over the past two decades.
ABARES Executive Director Dr. Jared Greenville highlighted the signifcant impact of climate variability, particularly drought, on agricultural productivity.
“Climate changes in
Australia have dampened productivity growth, with severe droughts causing substantial declines,” Dr. Greenville stated.
Dr. Greenville noted other contributing factors, including rising input costs, fuctuating commodity prices, fewer breakthrough technological developments, decelerating economic dynamism, and limited opportunities for productivity-enhancing policy interventions.
“When productivity
stagnates, it becomes increasingly challenging for farmers to compete in international markets, where prices are often low and competition is ferce,” Dr. Greenville explained. “This means that the price buffer which farmers can accept for their outputs while remaining proftable is increasing at a slower rate than before.”
He emphasized that this agricultural productivity slowdown is part of a broader, long-term productivity decline
across the Australian economy.
“While other industries search for solutions, agriculture can spearhead the effort to overcome this national challenge,”
Dr. Greenville asserted. “We are not out of options. Numerous strategies can drive productivity growth.”
Dr. Greenville pointed out that excluding the effects of climate variability, there is still observable productivity growth due to farmers adopting existing
technologies and practices and investments made in the research and development (R&D) system.
“Continued investment in R&D and practices that help agriculture thrive in a changing climate, along with the adoption of new technologies by farms, will be crucial,” he said. “Productivity also fourishes in free and open markets, so the government should ensure farms can consolidate or change without unnecessary barriers.”
“Industry and government must think creatively to identify new sources of productivity growth to ensure Australia remains a competitive leader in farming.”
The ABARES Insights report, “Australia’s Farm Productivity Slowdown – Why It Matters, and What It Means for Policymakers,” is available for download be visiting www. agriculture.gov.au
Death Notice
In Loving Remembrance of RHONDA JUNE CROTTY
formerly RHONDA HIBBENS of Lismore, previously of Kyogle Aged 79 years
Who le this life suddenly on 21st of July, 2024
Beloved mother of Kim and Wayne
Much loved mother-in-law of Greg and Amy
Adored grandmother of Joshua, Eva, Oliver and Dominic Great-grandmother of Jaxon
“Resting peacefully in God’s quiet heaven!” “Loved and missed forever.”
SAUNDERSON, ANNE
Late of Ballina.
Passed away peacefully on Saturday 20th July 2024, aged 85. Much loved mother of Phillip, Garry and Trevor Smee and mother-in-law of Lydia, Jane and Hanne.
Cherished Grandma & GG of Mark, Tayler, Mitchell, Morgane, Melissa, Christopher, David, Abigail and Elanor. Beloved daughter of Enid and Leonard King (both dec.). A private cremation will be held
Late of Ballina. Passed away peacefully at Bupa on Monday 22nd July 2024, aged 86.
Much loved wife of Bruce.
Cherished mother and mother-in-law of Leanne, Mark & Pamela. Beloved daughter of Isobel and Geo rey Hickman (both dec.) sister and sister-in-law of Gordon & Pam (dec.), Pete & Patty, Mavis & Ray (dec.). Always in our hearts and thoughts Relatives and friends are invited to attend Ruth’s Funeral Service to be held at the Rainbow Chapel, Ballina on THURSDAY (August 1, 2024) commencing at 2.00pm.
Following the service a private cremation will be held.
Ballina 02 6686 7036
Passed away peacefully on Monday 22nd July 2024, aged 88. Late of Crowley Care Ballina. Beloved son of Margaret and Phillip Kelly (both dec.).
Cherished brother and brother-in-law of Mary (dec.), Jim & Paulette and Paul. Loved and sadly missed by his extended family and friends. Forever with the Lord Requiem Mass for the repose of Father John’s Soul will be celebrated at St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Cnr Cherry Street and Crane Street, Ballina on MONDAY (August 5, 2024) commencing at 11.00am. A er Mass the cortege will leave for East Ballina Cemetery.
Ballina 02 6686 7036
This page is dedicated
Funeral Notice
Funeral Notice
MARGARET NELSON
FATHER JOHN PHILLIP KELLY
COMMUNITY NOTICES
must be emailed to community@ heartlandmedia.com.au before 3pm Fridays
Phone numbers only, no email addresses. Get the word out about your Club, Membership, Events, etc
WEATHER
Warnings
See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings
Northern Rivers District:
Mostly sunny. The chance of morning frost inland. Winds south to southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h. Large and powerful surf conditions.
Thursday. Sunny. Winds south to southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h. Northern Tablelands District:
Mostly sunny. Areas of morning frost. Winds south to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h.
Thursday. Mostly sunny. The chance of morning fog in the north. Areas of morning frost. Winds south to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h.
New South Wales:
The chance of showers along the coast and adjacent ranges, more frequent on the coastal fringe. Isolated showers about the far southern ranges, with possible dusting of snow above 1200 metres. Dry and sunny elsewhere. Widespread morning frost and patchy morning fog on and west of the Divide. Daytime temperatures below average. South to southwesterly winds in the east, fresh and gusty along the coastal fringe. East to southeasterly winds in the west. Hazardous surf conditions along the coast.
Thursday. The chance of showers along the coast and adjacent ranges, more frequent on the coastal fringe. Isolated showers about the far southern ranges, with possible dusting of snow above 1200 metres. Dry and sunny elsewhere. Widespread morning frost and patchy morning fog on and west of the
Divide. Daytime temperatures below average. South to southwesterly winds in the east, fresh and gusty along the coastal fringe. East to southeasterly winds in the west. Hazardous surf conditions along the coast. Byron Coast: Winds: Southerly 25 to 35 knots. Seas: 2.5 to 3 metres. Swell: Southerly 4 to 5 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers. Caution: Large and powerful surf conditions. Coffs Coast: Winds: South to southwesterly 25 to 35 knots. Seas: 2.5 to 3 metres. Swell: Southerly 4 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 60% chance of showers. Caution: Large and powerful surf conditions. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Southerly 20 to 30 knots. Seas: 2 to 3 metres. Swell: Southerly 1.5 to 2.5 metres inshore, increasing to 3 to 4 metres offshore. Weather: Mostly sunny. 50% chance of showers.
In a thrilling display of skill and teamwork, the U14 Boys basketball team representing Byron Bay has won the Grand Final of the prestigious Spalding Waratah North Eastern Junior League competition. This remarkable achievement marks a signifcant milestone for the young athletes who have shown determination and talent throughout the season.
The Spalding Waratah Junior Leagues are representative competitions run by Basketball NSW throughout Regional and Metropolitan NSW with U12 to U18 boys and girls teams competing for the title. The competition that commenced in March consists of 4 rounds, with the team travelling to Tamworth, Ballina, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour.
The team, coached by Greg Seely and Dave Shaw, has garnered attention for their exceptional performances on the court. Their journey
BALLINA MAHJONG 26TH JULY 2024
Margaret Bryant 1, Pauline Kearney 2, Shirley Atkinson 3, Gail McDonagh 4, Ronda Taylor 5, Jane Fenech 6, Susan Allan 7,Vanessa Reynolds 8, Carol Meyer 9, Lisa Wong 10, Jan Boardman 11, Jeanette Henwood, Wendy Thornton 12, Joy Lowien, Lorna Simpson 14, Lynda Lovett 16, Jan Small 17, Lesley Richie 18, Linda Lloyd 19, Valda McLerie 20, Diana Auret 21, Kath Hubbard, Pam Farrell 22, Barbara Ellan 24, Pauline Bolte, Val Heinritz 25, Yvonne Weddup 27, Shirley Coleman 28, Cindy Smith 29, Coral Lavelle 30, Jenny Lang 31,Jan Henley 32, Susan Scott 33. .
to the fnals has been characterized by intense matches and strategic play, showcasing their commitment to the sport and their ability to rise to challenges.
The Byron Beez team were sitting tied in frst position along with Tamworth when they
Friday at 12:30pm at the Ballina Bridge Club North Creek Road. Enquiries for new players phone Shirley on 0423 384 647.
CASINO SOCIAL GOLF RESULTS
28-07-2024
Winners of social golf on Sunday was Wayne Jackson with a stableford score of 31 points from Trevis Jenkins with 24. The putting trophy went to W.Jackson with 13 putts and P.Piccoli won the players draw. Nearest to pins:1st & 6th, T.Jenkins. 2nd, P.Piccoli. 3rd & 8th, W.Jackson. 4th, G.Randall.5th, D.Roberts. 7th, R.Ruttley. 17th, G.Shephard. 18th, Vinny.
entered the semi-fnals this Saturday, having won 14 out of their 16 games against teams from Lismore, Port Macquarie, Cessnock, Central Coast, Bellingen Valley, Coffs Harbour and Newcastle.
“We are incredibly proud of what these
Next Sunday’s event sponsored by Century Batteries Lismore will be a single stroke on the top 11 holes for the monthly medal followed by the annual general meeting and a BBQ and visitors are welcome to play with hit off from 6-30am till 7-30am.
CASINO WOMEN’S BOWLS RESULTS
2024 Minor Pairs Champions: Julie Creighton & Ivy Watson
Winners for the day on Wednesday 24/7 were:
Chris Haynes, Ivy Watson & Mary Mead def
Jan Cooke, Julie Creighton & Kaye Jonsson
Well done ladies. The other rink winners were:
young players have accomplished”, said Coach Dave. “They have worked tirelessly in practice and have shown incredible resilience in each game.”
Throughout the season, the team has demonstrated a deep
Helen Lavelle, Judy Carthew & Annette James def
Helen Lavelle, Raelene Skirrey & Denise Skinner
Come along & join us in this enjoyable game, we play on Wednesdays from 9.00am to 12.30pm at the RSM club.
CHERRY STREET
CROQUET CLUB SPORTS RESULTS ASSOCIATION
CROQUET:
T.Hume G.Porter 13 d
S.Hume P.Hume 6
Division 3 Club
Championships : P.Waters 17 d G.Drew 3
RICOCHET
CROQUET: R.Poynting N.Poynting 10 d P.Scott B.Waters 7
J.Doust J.Hannigan 14 d M.Russell N.Barnes 7
understanding of the game, combining sharp offensive manoeuvres with solid defensive strategies. Their cohesive teamwork and disciplined approach have been instrumental in securing victories against tough opponents.
“We are so proud
R.Chapman D.Cummings 11 d
G.Kerr P.Waters 8
P.Bolte B.Bill 13 d
C.Edlund 12
B.Bill D.Scott 11 d
G.Kerr M.Russell 10
P.Scott J.Doust 9 d
H.Young R.Poynting 9
P.Bolte N.Poynting 11 d M.Field J.Hannigan 10
R.Allen 12 d C.Edlund 11
Club Championships
Finals :
OBE : J.Doust R.Allen 12 d N.Barnes
M.Russell 11
Handicap Doubles : R.Poynting N.Poynting 7 d J.Bate A.Mangan 6.
Annual General Meeting Thursday 1st August 12md. All welcome
CORAKI VETERANS
GOLF RESULTS
of these boys! Their success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of every player on this team”, remarked Team Manager Kelly Shaw. “Reaching the fnals was exciting for all of us, and we were determined to give our best effort in the championship game.”
Parents and supporters rallied behind the team, flling the stands with enthusiastic cheers and encouragement during every match.
The community has embraced their journey, recognising the team’s achievements as a source of pride for this region and we have received some generous sponsorship from some local businesses.
Following their win, the Byron Beez are now off to compete at a state level in the 2024 Spalding Waratah Junior State Cup in Bathurst on 17 August. Stay tuned for updates as they aim to capture the championship and etch their names into the annals of junior basketball excellence.
THURSDAY 25/7/24
Winner J Nilsson, 2nd I Welch, free game W Henwood, chicken/ball winners R Thorne, S Toms, S O, Connor, T Beemster, S McDonough, D Vagne, S Dawson, J Kelly, G Gibson. Nearest pins 3rd/12th G Flaherty, 6th/15th T Foster. This Thursday will see the Monthly Medal for August played commencing with a shot gun start at 8.30am. The following four weeks will be the veterans championships played as single stableford best of luck to all golfers.
AS USUAL TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING
In a thrilling display of football, the Coffs United Lionesses eventually triumphed over the Woolgoolga Wildcats with a commanding 7-2 victory in Women’s North Coast Premier League.
The Wildcats burst out of the gates, opening the scoring with a perfectly directed header from Jesse Beresford. However, their lead was short-lived, as Georgia Silvy responded with a thunderous free kick that found the roof of the net just fve minutes later.
The back-and-forth battle continued, with Chloe Webb skillfully side-footing the Wildcats back into the lead. But Silvy was
not to be outdone, slicing through the Woolgoolga defence before calmly slotting the ball past the goalkeeper.
As halftime approached, Ali Gadd dazzled spectators with a mesmerizing run down the right wing, fnishing with a powerful strike to give the Lionesses a 3-2 lead at the break.
The second half was dominated by the Lionesses, who netted four unanswered goals. Georgia Silvy completed her four-goal haul with two more impressive fnishes, while Jordan Maddalena and Ali Gadd added to the scoreline, sealing a resounding victory for the Lionesses.
By Gary Nichols
IT was a game they needed to win, and they did it the hard way against a defant Kempsey Cannonballs on Saturday.
Grafton’s frst grade side came away with the spoils against the Cannonballs but had to fght tooth and nail to claim a 36-24 victory in front of a vocal home crowd.
Grafton looked like racing away with the game early on but to the visitors credit they continued to apply pressure on Grafton’s defence which was caught napping at critical moments throughout the contest.
There were nervous moments for the coaching staff and fans as Kempsey clawed their way back into the match to level proceedings at 19-all.
However, Grafton found another gear with 10-minutes remaining on the clock to record a thrilling and crucial victory.
Johnny King produced another lion-hearted performance and was rewarded with a fve-pointer while in the backs centre
Kyle Hancock was outstanding as was
scrum-half Jope Kurimose who was best on feld.
Grafton are at home to SCU Marlins next week in a game which could well determine fnal placings on the ladder.
Earlier, the Grafton Women’s side produced one of their best performances of the season with a 41-19 victory over Kempsey.
In an almost fawless display Grafton appear to be hitting their straps with the fnals just around the corner.
To their credit Kempsey refused to lie down recovering from a half-time 29-7 defcit to score two second-half tries.
Captain and playmaker Tamar McHugh provided plenty of space for her outside backs which caused plenty of headaches for the opposition defence.
Representative forward
Natalie Blackadder collected a double while Emily Norton, Esther Barker and Yuri Fuller were dangerous each time they touched the ball.
With one round remaining Grafton look like taking out the minor premiership setting up a blockbuster major semi against Coffs Snappers.
With wins in all four grades it was a culmination of a highly success Multi-Cultural Day at the Hay St ground.
During the week past women’s player Maddy Ellem, who was one of the designers of the jersey the Redmen played in on Saturday, handed them out to players.
Part of the design was also done by Malakai Roger, one of our highly respected Fijian senior men’s players. She said it was great for
the club to have so many walks of life involved and so passionate about Rugby.
Maddy spoke about the design and what it meant in an address all who attended found moving.
Proud local Bundjalung and Dunghutti Boy Taygen Walker was also a key part of the celebration, demonstration his talent on the didgeridoo before our frst grade fxture. It was a day of celebration for all at the ground with Kids Corner offering a jumping castle, artefact painting, mask making and novelty game.
There was also traditional food available featuring both indigenous and Fijiian delicacies.
Gumbaynggirr Elder Aunty Nita Taylor delivered a Welcome to Country ahead of the frst grade game.
The Grafton Vintage Motor Vehicle Club has acquired a life-saving portable defbrillator thanks to funding support through the NSW Government’s Local Sport Defbrillator Grant program, Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson has announced.
Mr Williamson said the initiative which provides grants of up to $3000 encourage sport and recreation facilities to invest in equipment that could save lives.
““With more and more people of all ages participating in sport and recreation, having access to a defbrillator could mean the difference
between life and death,”
Mr Williamson said.
“Over 25,000 people experience out-ofhospital cardiac arrest each year and medical experts say taking action in the frst eight minutes
after an attack are critical in increasing the person’s likelihood of survival.
“Jabour Park is a popular sport and recreation venue that is not only home to
Grafton Vintage Motor Vehicle Club members but is a popular RV camping ground as well as hosting sporting games, the NSW Cancer Council’s annual Relay for Life and a range of
other activities.
“Increasing the availability of defbrillators at community-based venues facilities and improve the likelihood of survival for incidents of cardiac arrest saves lives, and I commend the Grafton Vintage Motor Vehicle Club on taking the initiative to have one on hand at the popular venue.”
Mr Williamson encouraged other sport and recreation clubs to register their interest to get notifed when applications for the 2024-2025 Local Sport Defbrillator Program via the QR code.
Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson is pictured with members of the Grafton Vintage Motor Vehicle Club with the new de fbrillator
Grafton donned a special designed jersey for last weekend’s clash with Kempsey featuring aspects of indigenous and Fijian culture vitally important to the modern day club.
By Tim Howard
The South Grafton Rebels miserable season of close losses continued until the end with the Rebel’s fnal game of the season a bizarre 18-12 loss to Woolgoolga at McKittrick Park on Saturday.
The Rebels conceded two of the softest tries imaginable in the frst half as well as a well executed backline movement that enabled winger Kade Levingston to run around under the posts to secure 18 points in the frst 25 minutes of the game.
Rebels hard working lock Richard Roberts scored for the Rebels with a dummy half effort in the 23rd minute 12-6.
Woolgoolga can thank its tough defence and Lady Luck for the two competition points.
Time after time the Sea Horse shut down Rebels scoring opportunities, twice bundling players into touch as they headed for the corner post.
Several dangerous kicks into the in-goal also bounced favourably for defenders and twice more the Rebels were unable to ground the ball as they plunged over the try line.
But the Rebels were also culprits in letting Woolgoolga off the hook, with poor passing options, dropped ball and poor discipline keeping the visitors in front.
The start could have been worse for the Rebels.
After cleaning up a high kick from the Sea Horses in the frst two minutes of the game
fullback Keiron JohnsonHeron lost the ball in a tackle just a metre from the line.
The ball spilled from his arms and bounced up for Woolgoolga halfback Tyler Murden to grab and fall over the line just a couple of metres to the right of the posts.
Nine minutes later the Sea Horses were in again, this time with the try of the game when classy fullback Dane O’Hehir chimed into the backline and put Levingstone away down the right wing.
The speedster skirted the Rebels cover and ran around under the sticks for the touchdown.
At 12-nil up, Woolgoolga looked ready to dominate, but instead the Rebels were able to grind their way back intro the game.
They repulsed several
Woolgoolga attacks, including one shaky moment when winger William Sullivan dropped a towering bomb a metre out from his line.
Capitalising on some Woolgoolga errors, the Rebels camped in the Woolgoolga red zone and were eventually reward.
Richard Roberts looked to have scored and claimed a try when he plunged over from short range, but the referee ruled he was held up. Not to be denied, two tackles later he picked up the ball from dummy half and crashed over for the Rebels frst try.
McGrady converted and at 12-6 it was game on.
Buy a few minutes later the Rebels shakiness under the high ball gifted Woolgoolga’s dangerous centre Shayde Perham the decisive score of the game.
Young winger Sam Petch leapt to catch a high kick about 20m from his line, but the ball bounced free in front of Perham giving him a straight run to the line. In the fnal minutes of the half the Rebels had at least four scoring chances, but could not turn one into points.
The defence was able to ground a dangerous Hughie Stanley kick into the in-goal and centre Jye Boehme leapt to catch a kick into the corner, but was bundled into touch a metre out, prop Grant Stevens looked set to score from a set play near the line, but the last pass from hooker Todd Cameron went forward and Boehme was tackled into touch a metre out just before the half ended. During the onslaught the referee also sinbinned Woolgoolga prop Jake Elphick for petulantly ripping the ball from a player’s hands after a tackle. The Rebels onslaught continued in the second half as they tried to take advantage of their one-man advantage.
O’Hehir cleaned up a dangerous kick ahead from halfback Nick McGrady, a couple of minutes later the Rebels knocked on over line, Johnson Heron nearly scored out wide, but won a penalty for a high tackle and McGrady knocked on a metre out. Finally in the 29th minute the Woolgoolga defence cracked and Tyler Roberts raced over to score under the post.
At 18-12 the scoreline set the scene for a frantic fnal 10 minutes.
Time and again the Rebels surged at the Woolgoolga defence which refused to crack.
Again discipline let them down and Boehme was placed on report for a heavy dumping tackle which upended a Woolgoolga ball runner.
It was a game which the Rebels would say they let get away, but a win the Woolgoolga team would put down to rugged defence.
The Rebels had the edge in possession and looked on top for long periods, but their inability to turn that into points cost them in the end.
The Rebels will get two points for the bye next week, but it will be unlikely to save them from the wooden spoon. It will cap a disappointing season for last season’s grand fnalists and 2022 premiers.
Despite only winning three games for the season, they have lost six games by six points or less.
A bizarre draw which game them only one home game in the frst half of the season and
some administrative issues behind the scenes contributed to some turmoil at the club may have affected performances on the feld.
In Coffs Harbour the Grafton Ghosts kept their drive for a semi-fnal spot alive downing danger team Coffs Harbour 20-16
The Ghosts scored four tries to three with their backline scoring all the points for the game.
Competition leaders Nambucca slumped to another defeat in a worrying loss of momentum for the club.
The Roosters can’t be beaten for the minor premiership, but a 26-16 loss to the Sawtell Panthers is the second loss in a row for a team that was unbeaten three weeks ago.
The Ghosts, sitting in fourth spot, a point ahead of Macksville, have a tough ask on Sunday, hosting the Sea Horses at Frank McGuren Field.
The Ghosts should know whats needed from them as the decisive game between Macksville and the Panthers will be played on Saturday, determining who takes third spot.
Woolgoolga centre Shayde Perham, pictured here during the 2023 grand fnal trying to fend off Rebels centre Jye Boehme, scored his team’s decisive try of the game in just the 24th minute of the match.
