The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 219

CASINO NAMED ‘MEATIEST’ TOWN IN NSW

Bolter Cristie heads vote count in Clarence

TIM HOWARD

Voters have again shown their faith in a newbie to local politics with Ulmarra’s Cristie Yager streeting the feld in early counting following Saturday’s Clarence Valley Council election.

At the close of counting and with 18,790 votes counted (17,106 formal, 1684 informal) Ms Yager tallied 2845 votes or 16.63% of the formal ballots cast.

This put her more than 1000 votes clear of

Mayor Peter Johnstone on 1789 and incumbent Greens councillor Greg Clancy on 1726.

They are the only candidates on track to reach the quota on frst preference votes and of the three, Ms Yager is comfortably on track with a quota ratio of 1.66. Cr Johnstone was on 1.05 and Cr Clancy was at 1.01.

To achieve their quota and election to council a candidate must secure a quota. The NSW Electoral Commission arrives at this fgure by dividing the number of frst preferences by the number of candidates plus one. They add one to the quotient, creating an absolute majority.

Candidates are elected once they reach this number.

The 2024 result has echoes with the 2021 poll when Grafton businessman Jeff Smith topped the poll and during the term went on to become deputy mayor from September 2023.

After preferences in 2021 Cr Smith had 6022 votes representing 19.64% of formal votes.

But he had a much higher profle running a popular ice cream parlour in Grafton and having a prominent role in community groups, including the Jacaranda Festival.

Outside the top three another frst time candidate, Warregah Island farmer Shane Causley on 1318, former Grafton City Council general manager Ray Smith on 1209, incumbent councillor Allison Whaites on 1190, Yamba’s Lynne Cairns on 1135 and another sitting councillor, Debrah Novak on 1007.

Former Clarence Valley deputy mayor Craig Howe has followed the past two local government elections closely, since he bowed out ahead of the 2021 poll.

He had picked Ms Yager as his bolter for this election and she did not disappoint him.

“I think she put in a lot of hard yards, got out there meeting people and knocking on doors and bit of old school campaigning. I think, obviously it worked for

The Clarence Valley has again shown faith a newbie councillor with frst time candidate Cristie Yager streets ahead of the feld with nearly half the vote counted in the Clarence Valley Council election held on Saturday.

“I hope it never does, because that’s the sort of person we need.”

He said Ms Yager would bring a freshness to the council which was needed

“You have the experienced guys you know, the Ray Smiths of the world who know the rules really well, yeah.

“But you also know people like her to keep them grounded and keep reminding them that they’re there for the people, not there just for council.”

Mr Howe said the vote, with Ms Yager and Cr Clancy securing a quota could be “wild” when it came to distribution of preference.

her,” he said.

He said the tattooed and dreadlocked Ms Yager has struck a surprising chord with Clarence Valley voters.

“She seems like she just speaks her mind,” he said

“Basically it is: this is how I feel. This is what I think. I like people, and I want to work with people.

“I don’t know how long that will take to get that enthusiasm beat out of her.

He said any candidate with 1000 plus votes now would be hard to beat, which could have a couple of incumbents struggling.

Current councillors Karen Toms (894) and Steve Pickering (628) were “struggling” Mr Howe said.

“Karen might get on, but I think Pickering is gone,” he said.

He said controversial Yamba identity Lynne Cairns, a vocal critic of the former council, was likely to be elected, as

for their support and faith in me,” he said.

He said there had been a massive increase in pre-poll voting, which were counted after the ballots cast on polling day.

“It is likely that the pre-poll votes will mirror the vote on election day, (but) there is potential for a few surprises, so it would be a brave commentator to call the election as yet.”

He congratulated Ms Yager on her success.

”Cristie has run an excellent campaign and thoroughly deserves her excellent results,” he said.

was Ray Smith.

But he said the if the preference fows from Yager and Clancy went toward “Green” candidates, some further down the list could be elevated.

“Cristie didn’t have a how to vote card I don’t believe,” he said. “But I think a lot of her votes probably will be sort of some sort of Green or left-ish, sort of.

“I don’t think many of all preference say Alison Whaites.”

He said this could bring a candidate like Melissa Hellwig (507) into consideration.

“I don’t think it’s likely, but it’s not out of the question,” he said.

Mr Howe described the informal vote of 8.96% of ballots cast as “crap.”

“Every time it’s about the same percentage,” he said. “We always say ‘that’s crap’. I’d rather they didn’t vote at all if they’re going to vote informally.”

Incumbent mayor Peter Johnstone thanked people for their votes.

“Although it is early in the count with only half the votes presently counted, I’d like to thank the people of the Valley

“I have enjoyed getting to know her better and think she will make an excellent councillor.”

He said other candidates had performed well.

“I also met Shane (Causley) at pre-poll several times and was very impressed,” he said.

“He was clearly well known and liked by many, particularly in the farming and sugar industries and this is refected in his impressive polling fgures.

“Greg Clancy has also had a strong following.”

He said counting of the pre-poll votes started on Monday, but the electorate would wait until the start of October for the fnal results.

Clarence Valley mayor Peter Johnstone was second in the early count and is on target to achieve a quota on frst preferences.

Greens candidate Greg Clancy has polled strongly in the Lower Clarence where issues such as food plain development have been upmost in voters’ minds.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

NSW voted for their council representatives over the weekend and while results aren’t fnalised, we have compiled the results so far at time of printing.

Ballina

Residents of the coastal local government area showed they have been happy with the work

Sharon Cadwallader has been doing as mayor. She is currently sitting at 45.08% of the vote with her nearest rival, the Greens Kiri Dicker. a long way back at 25.79%

A ward favourites include the Greens Erin Karsten on 20.73%, Independent Damian Loone following closely at 17.35% and ALP’s Maria Marshall on 14.07%, although

Election results to date

Independent’s Kevin Loughrey is close on her heels at 13.52%.

B ward has larger margins with Sharon Cadwallader taking 36.12% of the vote then Kiri Dicker, much closer than in the mayoral race at 31.34%. After that the closest candidate is ALP’s Andrew Broadley on 11.65%.

C ward has the Greens Simon Chate leading the chase on 36.21%, followed by Independent Simon Kinny on 28.47% and another Independent These Crollick on 15.12%

Byron

Current mayor Michael Lyon’s recent public issues are refected in the sad results of his race to get back in the top job, with his mayoral vote hitting a paltry 17.29% compared to

Sarah Ndiaye of the Greens who is sitting on 34.71%. However, there is a chance ALP’s Asren Pugh is not discounted yet with 30.37% of the vote.

The Greens also have a chance of strong representation on council as Group D holds 40.22% of votes for their council candidates, followed by the ALP at 27.95%.

Kyogle

While it has been tradition that elected councillors in Kyogle voted for the mayor, residents of this inland local government area had the extra task of deciding in a referendum question, whether or not they wanted a popularly elected mayor and a reduction in the ward numbers or the status quo. Results at time

of printing were not available.

A ward’s most popular candidate thus far is Brett McNamara with 31.15% of the vote, followed by Kieran Somerville with 26.67% and long-standing councillor Janet Wilson at 18.40%.

B ward’s winning candidate is currently Olivia Taylor with 34.03%, then current councillor John Burley 25% and Robert Cullen on 19.29%.

In C ward popular councillor and previous mayor Danielle Mulholland holds 40.88% of the vote with Tom Cooper on 21.06% coming second and Robin Harley on 13.63% holding the bronze.

Lismore

There is no doubting the popularity of current

mayor Steve Krieg who looks like holding his seat with 48.38% of the vote, trailed by the Greens Vanessa GrindonEkins on 21.13%.

The Independent Group A look like, not only getting their mayor back in but will fll a few seats around the council table with 42.39% of votes.

They are followed by the Greens Group D with 26.77% and ALP’s Group B holding 18.77%.

Richmond Valley

It looks like business as usual for the Richmond Valley with mayor Robert Mustow holding a comfortable lead to retain his role on 38.93%. He was given a run for his money by newcomer Lyndall Murray in the early part of counting before she settled around 27.17%.

There should be a mixture of new and old faces on council with Group D, led by the current mayor, Robert Mustow receiving 41.42% of the vote and newcomers, with Lyndall Murray, Group C, second with 25.69%. Group A led by previous Richmond Valley general manager, John Walker obtained a healthy 20.51%.

Tweed

A large number of parties were vying for all council positions with the current group with most votes being the Liberals with 28.74%.

ALP are a comfortable second on 14.96% and Independent Group A, led by current mayor, Chris Cherry in third with 13.42%.

Red Meat Processing: The Driving Force Behind Casino’s Employment

Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has confrmed that the red meat processing industry is the largest employer in Casino, New South Wales, with 10% of the town’s residents employed in the sector. At the heart of this industry is The Casino Food Co-op, which has earned Casino the title of NSW’s ‘meatiest’ town, thanks to its signifcant contribution to the local job market.

This analysis, part of the More to Meat campaign by the Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC), underscores the pivotal role that red meat processing plays in boosting local economies, especially in regional areas like Casino.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the industry’s importance in driving economic growth and providing diverse employment opportunities in Australia’s rural communities.

Nationwide, red meat processing is a major employer in many regions. According to the ABS, the industry ranks among the top fve employers in 245

NSW’s ‘meatiest’ town

suburbs across Australia, with 75 of these areas identifying it as the number one industry for employment. Casino stands out as a prime example of how the red meat processing sector not only directly employs a substantial number of local residents but also supports a broader supply chain.

Businesses in agriculture, transport, packaging, and retail services beneft signifcantly from the industry’s success, generating further employment opportunities and economic activity across the region.

Chris Taylor, CEO of AMPC, emphasized the far-reaching impact of the red meat processing

industry. “The success of the local processing industry is good for the whole community because it creates jobs right here while also supporting fow-on economic activity into surrounding industries,” Taylor remarked. He highlighted the wide range of career opportunities available within the sector, from entry-level positions to management roles, catering to individuals of all skill levels and backgrounds.

One of the key strengths of red meat processing is its diversity in employment opportunities. The industry offers numerous hands-on roles essential to daily operations, but it is also increasingly seeking employees with advanced qualifcations and university degrees. This evolution is a refection of the sector’s growing complexity and the need for skilled workers to meet new challenges in areas like technology,

sustainability, and food safety. As a result, red meat processing presents an attractive career path for those looking to develop new skills, gain qualifcations, and progress professionally.

The More to Meat campaign highlights the integral role red meat processing plays in both the local and national economies. It also shines a spotlight on the industry’s contribution to the Australian red meat supply chain, emphasizing how the

sector supports not just processing, but a wide array of related industries. From entry-level positions that provide a gateway into the workforce, to advanced roles that require specialized knowledge, red meat processing offers a dynamic range of job opportunities.

For more information about the More to Meat campaign and the contribution of red meat processing to regional employment, visit moretomeat.com. au. Additionally, the ABS data on meat processor employment is available for those seeking further insights into the industry’s role in Australia’s economy.

CASINO, NSWhttps://abs.gov.au/ census/fnd-census-data/ quickstats/2021/ SAL10842

10% of Casino’s population are working in the meat processing industry.

0.2% of NSW’s population work in the meat processing industry.

JEFF GIBBS

Chris Taylor

Shop Second Hand Saturday this weekend!

This Saturday 21 September, be sure to add preloved treasure hunting to your weekend agenda, as the North Coast community roll up their garage doors for Second Hand Saturday.

Hosted by North East Waste and Council, the free annual community event will once again see lawns adorned with pre-loved treasures, neighbours getting together for whole street sales and local community groups coordinating car boot or market-style sales.

This year, over 300 garage sales have registered to take part across Tweed, Byron, Ballina, Lismore, Kyogle, Richmond Valley and the Clarence Valley.

In Lismore, Richmond Valley and Kyogle alone there are some 90 participating garage sales, including those more out of town garage sales in Geneva, Bentley and the Bonalbo United Hospital Auxillary.

Coordinator of Second Hand Saturday, Linda Tohver said “Second Hand Saturday provides an avenue for more of our community to get together and embrace reuse and repair, by keeping perfectly good items in circulation.”

“There are also many items that can no longer be bought new, and fashion trends that simply aren’t ‘in’ right now. By shopping second hand, we have local access to such a variety and at a fraction of the cost to buying new.”

Get ready for some guilt-free, environmentally sustainable shopping this Second Hand Saturday 21 September!

offer at each sale, photos and interactive maps that enable you to bookmark your favourites and plan out your day.

All the garage sale details are available at www. secondhandsaturday. com.au

Alternatively, visit the Second Hand Saturday facebook page @ mysecondhandsaturday to download the addresses for Council areas (from Tuesday 17th September) or keep up to date with the day’s activities.

“With the added beneft of supporting locals and keeping items out of landfll, the positives for our community participating in Second Hand Saturday are huge,” she said.

Sales in Richmond Valley

Shoppers can navigate their way through all that’s on offer by

visiting the Second Hand Saturday website or downloading the free app. Both include a full list of garage sales across the region, what’s on

Second Hand Saturday is coordinated by North East Waste on behalf of member North Coast Council’s and proudly supported by the NSW Environment Protection Authority.

Sales in Kyogle

These were the words that described 90-year-old Wilfred ‘Fred’ Hoskins, used by Wyrallah Public School principal, Lisa Fahy.

“This is an historical occasion,” she said at the event that was to see the library named after their most dedicated ex-student.

“It is to show our appreciation of our guest of honour, Fred.

“Eighty fve years ago Fred came to school on horseback.”

From that time on, Fred became an integral part of the community of Wyrallah Public School and all those connected to it.

“He is a man of many hats,” Ms Fahy said.

“Has been a dairy farmer, steel worker, lifeline counsellor, truck driver and even sings and dances.

“And he has an unwavering love for education.”

Fred is still a regular visitor to the primary school where he frst received his formal education from his teacher Mr Hardy, but now he inspires the students of today with his knowledge.

“Fred has a passion for reading and for books,” said Ms Fahy.

“So, naming the library after him was a ftting honour.

“He lives a purpose driven life and has supported the community in ways many people,

‘A simple man, simply extraordinary’

except those receiving the support, don’t know.”

In the 157th year of the school’s history, making it the oldest continuously operating school in the

P&C president, Nathan Rose.

“He was also at the 150 year celebrations.”

Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn said Fred

Lismore district, Fred has been a big part of that.

“Fred climbed the pine tree (on the school grounds) to sketch and graph the school for its 125th anniversary,” said

had made a difference, not only in the lives of the students, but their parents and the community as well.

Fred was given the opportunity to speak and his love and passion for

books and learning was evident.

“My teacher used to read to us,” he said.

“Books like Wind in the Willows, where you

River’.

For Fred the library was the most important building, as it was the place to learn and he enthusiastically

became a part of the story.

“Your imagination was everything.”

His favourite book was one about compassion and kindness, entitled ‘The King of the Golden

encouraged the students who were listening to get a dictionary.

“Words and their meanings infuenced my life,” he said.

“Words like kindness, wisdom and compassion,

Square Dancing

Do you love music, movement and meeting new people? en you should join us for square dancing! Square dancing is a fun and easy way to exercise your body and mind, while making friends and having a blast. No experience or partner needed, just bring yourself and your enthusiasm. We’ll teach you everything you need to know, step by step, in a friendly and supportive environment.

Come to the Lismore Presbyterian Church Hall, 188 Keen Street, Lismore, Tuesday nights 7pm to 9 pm. $12pp. First night is free. Commencing 24 September. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the joy of square dancing. You’ll be hooked in no time!

if they are foremost in your mind, they will infuence your life.”

He said his greatest infuence, his saviour, Jesus Christ, was his driving force for all that he did in life and he and his wife, Olwyn taught scripture at the school for more than 30 years.

Current students were keen to ask him a number of questions regarding his own student days, including what he had for lunch, who was his favourite teacher, what was his favourite event at school and what was his favourite toy.

“We didn’t have a football,” Fred said.

“So we used an infated pig’s bladder to kick around.”

Fred wasn’t always one of the best behaved students either.

“Children today never knew anything about corporal punishment,” he said.

“But I learnt a lot about it.

“But my father taught me that if you do something wrong, you accept the punishment and try not to do it again.”

Whatever his misbehaviours as a child, he has more than made up for it with his support of the school since.

With Olwyn and many friends and family by his side, the veil was released to show the engraved sign renaming that most important building as “Fred Hoskins Library”.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

Fred Hoskins chats with the community

Janelle and Fred unveil the new sign to the library.

Fred Hoskins, Member for Lismore MP Janelle Saffn, Wyrallah Public School principal Lisa Fahy.

Two North Coast public school students have been named the State’s top spellers, beating almost 200,000 of their peers to make it to the NSW Premier’s Spelling Bee fnals.

Year 5 students

Aleea Thompson from Mullumbimby Public School and Willow Allen from Yamba Public School will take to the Q Theatre Penrith mic on Friday 1 November and compete for Spelling Bee senior state champion.

The State fnal will be contested by 30 students in Years 3 and 4 (junior) and 30 students in Years 5 and 6 (senior).

More than 1800 students competed in

TOP STUDENTS THE BEE’S KNEES FOR NSW SPELLING FINALS

60 regional fnals over a 10-day period to reach the 2024 State fnals. Of these, 303 students (200 juniors and 103 seniors) speak a language other than English at home, and 95 students (46 juniors and 49 seniors) identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

Students spelled their way into the fnals with words such as ‘fascinate’, ‘anemometer’, ‘allegory’ and ‘sovereign’.

Arts Unit Premier’s Spelling Bee Support Offcer Desiree Lane said the 2024 Spelling Bee’s enrolment increased by almost 10 percent on last year

with nearly two-thirds of NSW public primary schools competing.

“This year we’ve had a noticeably lower number

of withdrawals from the Bee, which suggests the new Zoom format we’ve implemented is making it easier for schools to participate, especially in rural and remote areas,” Ms Lane said.

“We had a starting pool of just under 200,000 participating students with the most remote student from Broken Hill.

“In November we’ll have fnalists travelling into Sydney from as far away as Temora, Dungowan, Griffth and Mullumbimby, so the state is well represented.”

Yamba Public School in northern NSW has had students compete in the fnals fve times in the past eight years.

“Yamba has a history of strong spellers, and Year 5 fnalist Willow Allen is no exception,” Ms Lane said.

This year’s competition will also see the return of 2023 junior fnalists, Year 4 student Bobby (Bogdan) Ivaneza from Annandale Public School and Year 5 Coonabarabran Public School student, William Weatherall, who both qualifed for this year’s senior fnal.

The Spelling Bee encourages students to

improve their vocabulary and spelling and to promote literacy skills in combination with the English K-6 Syllabus. To compete at the regional fnal a student must have won their school spelling bee.

The 2024 NSW Premier’s Spelling Bee is proudly supported by Major Sponsor G rokAcademy, Suppor ters, Primary English Teaching Association Australia, ABC Radio Sydney and ACCO Brands Australia, and Word List Partner Macquarie Dictionary.

Clarence voters look past the tattoos and dreads

She owns a tattoo parlour in South Grafton, wears her hair in dreadlocks and in her frst tilt at becoming a Clarence Valley Council is more than 1000 votes ahead of her nearest rival.

She is Cristie Yager and Clarence Valley voters have overwhelmingly chosen her appeal to community values and straight talking ahead of candidates who have taken a more mainstream approach.

There was no-one more shocked than Ms Yager when the frst fgures from Saturday’s count came out on Sunday, with 2845 frst preference votes putting her on track to be the frst councillor elected.

Needing a quota fgure of around 4000 votes likely, Ms Yager was almost certain to achieve that fgure on the frst count.

“I don’t think I’ve absorbed it very well yet,” she said on Sunday. “But there’s time for that I suppose.”

Ms Yager revealed that she had become aware of a strong vein of female support for her and other women on the ballot

paper, which might create some surprises when preferences were distributed.

“There was a lot of people who just went, ‘well, I’m gonna vote for you. I don’t really know who, who else,” Ms Yager said.

“So they just went, ‘I’m gonna vote for women’. There was a lot of that.”

While she was grateful for the support and understood the reason for it, she said she really would like to be a representative for all people.”

She said she had met many of the candidates during pre-polling and enjoyed the experience.

Ms Yager put her appeal to voters down to her independence.

“I decided I’d go independent, 100%,” she said. “I’m gonna do it my way.

“Not that I knew what I was doing, but I was gonna do it my way, and I was gonna stay independent.

“If I couldn’t work hard enough to get it, then I didn’t earn it. That was my stance.”

She said that as she’s rubbed shoulders with

current councillors and candidates she’s learned a lot.

“It’s been, yeah, very eye opening to see how everyone’s sort of doing their bits and pieces behind the scenes, I suppose,” she said.

“So yeah, I’ve had to sort of tell a few people to sort of go, hey guys, do not bring me into this. I’m just going to be over here doing my thing.”

While the level of support was a surprise, Ms Yager revealed her campaign to get onto council had begun at the start of the year and

employed a combination of tactics.

“It was sort of like a trifecta thing I was trying to go for,” she said.

“I sort of wanted to go cover the three angles I wanted to learn.

“So I wanted to go to every council meeting.

“Read business papers, you know, read the Code of Conduct, the Local Government Act, get the basics on those documents.

“I didn’t want to walk through the doors and go, I do not know what I’m doing, or have an idea, you know.’

Her second plan to use social media to create a presence in the community, but there was a catch.

“Trying to say anything on community groups was hard, because they sort of go, ‘Oh, she’s just trying to raise a profle on that.

“And I was, but I tried to make sure I was open about it while being, you know, genuine.

“It was a tricky, tricky balance.

The third part of her campaign was pure old-school community

“I’ve already found out I can’t put in a NOM (notice of motion) straight up, so that’s a shame,” she said.

“So I suppose I’ll just take my oath. I think I’m going to take a step at a time.”

But she said she she wanted to put the community frst in council and would not be afraid to press those view when the time comes.

“I really want to be active about it and mainly just include, you know, our people, that’s sort of the point.

“I’ve kind of got some ideas, but I think I’d probably double check with everyone that matters.

“I’m going to be very involved with the community.”

campaigning.

“Go and be a part of the community, contribute to different volunteering things, go to community events, all those, yeah, basically all those kind of things.

“Visit a pub for an afternoon lunch and just different areas.”

Ms Yager said the fact she was a ffth generation Clarence Valley person meant she had lots of contacts.

“We’re always in the bush, but in different spots,” she said.

“So I tried to sort of connect with them. And, yeah, understand their perspective in their areas.

“We’ve got, like, you know, beach communities, like, you know, full of beachy, cool people, but then, you know, out in the sticks, we’ve got, you know, the, you know, full bush hippies, but then also farmers. I mean, it’s such a variety, and it’s just so cool.”

Despite her independent approach

Ms Yager said she was looking forward to the discipline of working in council.

Ms Yager said during her campaign and prepoll a new idea had come to her to educate high school students about civic involvement.

“I’ve I actually have got a new goal, too, after hanging out with all the guys,” she said.

“I am going to be going and talking to high school students and telling them why this is so bloody important, and why they should be involved, and why they should care, and maybe try and make it exciting.

“You know, there’s just so many people who had no idea, or some who are just like, super keen.

“This is, frst time I’ve actually taken an interest and I know what I’m doing. I’m informed, and I’m going to do it right.”

But she said it was not just young people who could beneft.

“I just sort of assumed it would be, you know, the younger generation that would be a little bit clueless with how to vote, but it was just throughout the ages.

“That just was really eye opening for me. So that’s sort of on my new, you know, to do list, something I’d love to do.”

The Yager team, family members and friends, bottom from left: Buddy, Molly and Bella. Middle Sophie, Cristie and Sophie’s boyfriend Chase and rear, Aaron holding Barrie and Violet. The family was celebrating on Saturday as the count put Cristie on target to being the frst councillor elected on the new Clarence Valley Council.

$30mil aquatic centre looking for a name and a manager

TIM HOWARD

Three months from the scheduled opening of its $30 million regional aquatic centre, Clarence Valley Council is looking for a manager and what it might be called.

Departing from its usual practices of contracting out management of its facilities, the council has fagged it will selfmanage the facility and want to have a manager in place in time for the December opening.

The report to the August 27 council meeting called for public consultation to help with the naming of the pool, suggested the council manage the pool for two years to allow staff to draw a better picture of pool usage.

The fgures for the controversial project have been questioned as overly optimistic and were based on fgures consultants Liquid Blu provided to the council in 2018 before the pool’s unscheduled closure in 2022.

Then deputy mayor Cr Jeff Smith alluded

to these fgures during debate at the last council meeting on August 27.

“I’d like to thank staff for fnally putting a disclaimer in that these projections also represent the full operation of all water bodies and features, including the water slides, which have been excluded from the current construction program,” he said “That’s what I’ve been banging on about for over 12 months.”

But Cr Smith said there were still fgures in the report which had no basis.

“It projects that we’re going to have 24,336 visitors in three years to a non-existent gym,” he said.

“Can we just fle that

whole spreadsheet?

Because it just goes popping up and over and over again.”

Cr Smith, who has promised to walk down Prince St (Grafton) in his Speedos if the pool attracts 270,000 visitors a year as projected, pointed to some anomalies that still exist.

“I look forward to that time,” he said. “In fact, I might even trot all the way to the pool, because you won’t get a car parking spot, because despite the 800% increase in patronage, there’s no extra car parking spots.”

Cr Karen Toms said the fgures in the report from Liquid Blu were brought to council in December 2018, and acknowledged

requirements had changed since then.

“I’m not sure why we needed to have that in there, but it was an operating forecast estimated in the 10 year, as it says, Budget and Financial based on the full operation of the facility,” she said.

“So, you know, our staff didn’t sort of just dream up those numbers.”

The council described the managerial role as an “exciting opportunity for someone to set up the new $30 million facility located at Grafton and build it into a signature aquatic centre for the region”.

Its release said the successful applicant would be offered a three-

NORTH COAST

year term contract under the Local Government (State) Award.

Council’s manager open spaces and facilities

Rachelle Passmore said the council was proud to maintain management of the facility to ensure programs and activities meet the growing needs of the community.

“The new centre includes an outdoor 50m pool, an accessible zero depth splash pad and an indoor centre with two heated pools, a 25m and combined program and leisure pool.

“With December quickly approaching, we’re excited to get the recruitment underway for the new facility.

“In this frst round, we are seeking a centre

manager. Additional roles, including programs, operations, lifeguards, customer service staff, and various instructors such as ftness and swimming instructors, will be advertised soon.”

The manager position is open now until October 1 with interested candidates encouraged to apply by applying via the Council Careers Page www.clarence.nsw.gov. au/Careers/Find-a-job

The council approved self management of the pool and beginning public consultation to fnd a name for the centre.

Council would like naming suggestions for the:

• Regional Aquatic Centre

• 50-metre competition pool

• indoor program and leisure pool.

The engagement period began on September 5 and continues until September 23.

You can fll out an online survey at https://www. clarenceconversations. com.au/name-rac

Clarence Valley Council has sought help from the community in fnding a name for the Regional Aquatic Centre. The frst stage of the project, the 50m pool, is due to open in December

Saffn urges residents to prepare for storm season

Member for Lismore, and Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery, Janelle Saffn is urging residents of the Lismore electorate to prepare for the increased risk of storms as the storm season offcially begins.

“The period between September and April is when storms, strong winds and heavy rain tend to be more frequent and the Bureau of Meteorology has indicated an increased risk of extreme storms, at least for the start of the season.

“Over recent weeks NSW has already been battered by windy conditions with 1200 volunteers responding to more than 2000 events.

“Storm activity can

be checked using the Hazards Near Me app, alongside existing food and fre alerts.

To prepare for storms, residents are advised to:

• Secure loose items outside, trim trees and branches away from properties, clean your gutters and move your cars from underneath

Byron Shire Community Groups Better Prepared for Next Emergency

Community groups across the Byron Shire are now better equipped to handle emergencies, thanks to new portable Starlink dishes that will ensure essential communication in case mobile and NBN networks fail.

Resilience networks in Bangalow, Federal, Goonengerry, Mullumbimby, South Golden Beach, Upper Coopers Creek, and Wilsons Creek have received the Starlink systems, which come with portable back-up power. These systems will provide vital access to the internet and emergency services, allowing communities to stay connected during disasters.

Sarah Boulle, Council’s Recovery Coordinator, emphasized the communication failures experienced during the 2022 foods, when many parts of Byron Shire were cut off from emergency

services. “This is a safety risk, and we wanted to mitigate it by providing back-up communications for these communities,” she said.

The Starlink systems, loaned to community resilience groups, will enable them to access emergency warnings, disaster information, and call 000 for assistance in critical situations. These teams, made up of volunteers, have been pivotal in the community’s recovery efforts since the foods.

“We’ve been working with these volunteers over the last two years, and the back-up communication systems are just one way we’re supporting their invaluable work,” Ms. Boulle said. “While there’s still much to do, our communities are better prepared for future emergencies.”

The project is funded by the NSW and Australian Governments.

trees.

• If you are caught out in a storm, seek shelter indoors. Do not shelter under trees and stay away from powerlines.

• Prepare an emergency plan for storms and foods.

• Download the Hazards Near Me app and set your watch

zones.

• If you need assistance from the NSW SES, call 132 500. If it’s an emergency, call Triple 0.

For more information on how to get ready ahead of this year’s storm season, visit www.

ses.nsw.gov.au.

“This is the time of

year when we keep a watch on weather warnings to see when and where the storm activity is happening, and doing what we need to stay safe like deciding when it is safe to drive home from work.

“I would like to thank our hardworking SES volunteers for all

Women Like Us Bring

Women Like Us is the stand up comedy sensation created by local comedians Mandy Nolan and Ellen Briggs. With over 320 performances in cities and regional centres, big city theatres and dusty regional halls they are excited to dust off their heels for a gig at some local Halls - Rous Community Hall and Coorabell Hall with some of the proceeds going to Grandcarers Project for

an industry that favours under 30’s and is dominated by blokes. After years of performing for women’s luncheons and fundraisers to audiences that fangirled them like crazy, they both decided that there was an audience out there for them – they just had to go out there and fnd them. And so began Women Like Us. Nearly a decade on, with sell out shows across the country and a fan

grandparents caring for their grandkids.

An anomaly in their industry – kickass comics AND middle-aged women – they realised that it didn’t matter how good they were, they were always going to be behind the 8 ball in

base that is now truly nationwide, Mandy refects on the success of a show she thought might last a year.

The magic of the show is the combination of talents. The big, warm, outrageous Nolan and the laid back

they do to support our communities over the course of the storm season.

“We can help them by having our homes prepared for storms and staying informed of the severe weather warnings.”

it Home!

charisma of sharp shooting, natural born storyteller

Ellen Briggs.

‘We’ve had heaps of 5 star reviews from Australia’s premier comedy festivals’ says Ellen, ‘ but the reviews we take to heart are the ones we get from audiences show after show. They keep turning up, some coming back for the 4th and 5th time.’

Ellen Briggs is a nationally recognised

Award winning show The Candidate about her tilt to Melbourne Town Hall for the Melbourne Comedy Festival.

headline comic, a RAW fnalist, she’s featured on Hughesie We Have a Problem and is regular on ABC radio. Mandy Nolan is a columnist for the Byron Shire Echo, a writer for Mamamia, and most recently took her

Women Like Us is Stand up comedy at its best. It’s about housework, chickens, love, feminism, small dogs, big butts, disappointment, resentment, sex when you’re drunk, ft bits, yoga farts and being a menopausal woman dealing with teenage angst. They’re overworked, overweight and over it…

Women Like Us bring the comedy love - Rous Mill Community Hall on 12 October and Coorabell Hall on November 30. Both shows at 7.30pm. Tix on womenlikeus.com.au

Samantha’s Book

Watercolour – an enchanting exhibition at the Cassino Gallery

CONTRIBUTED

BY

THERESE SCHIER

When you have nothing else to do but wait

Title: Quietly Waiting

Author: Justin Fox

Price: $28.95

Publisher: New Found

Books By Samantha Elley

Strong, intelligent and very independent, Tanya knows her own mind and is ready to face the world as she delves into her studies.

Then she meets Evan and her plans are all turned upside down.

She instantly falls in love with the soldier but his commitment to his career in the armed forces means he has to leave on deployment to Afghanistan.

Their courtship is short as they marry and have only the honeymoon to enjoy their new found intimacy.

To distract herself,

Tanya throws herself into a research project on the life of her ancestor, an unexpected source of strength for her as she has to face the reality of the dangers Evan must face.

Her dreams soon take over, where she is visited by other women who have had to tread the same path, as they too have waited for their greatest desire.

The women soon become Tanya’s safety net as she must eventually face her worst nightmare.

Author Justin Fox has always wanted to write and be published since childhood and, despite a career and family taking precedence, his passion for the written word has never left him.

Now, as the family has grown, he has dusted off his notepads and focused on his passion.

You can order a copy of Quietly Waiting from www. newfoundbooks.au

Feast your senses at the Watercolour exhibition opening at the Cassino Gallery this Saturday 21st September.

Considered one of the most demanding of art forms, watercolour offers

to the best in show.

“Through the support of the community in attending openings, events and classes the Gallery can co-fund with the Council,” Laszlo said.

The exhibition will be judged by Northern Rivers artist, Harry Westera. Harry originally

fow off your brush, mixing on the paper and creating images of our world in beautiful washes of colour can be very satisfying.

“It is wonderful that Cassino Gallery has attracted so many watercolour enthusiasts.”

Lismore artist Kevin Lawlor was drawn

Kevin congratulated the Cassino Gallery for having the vision to develop the gallery.

“It is an extremely brave endeavour which will bring artists together and provide a gallery for the public.”

The offcial opening

an enchanting, mystical experience for visitors.

” Watercolour painting is a subtle art that requires masterly control to refect the elusive hues of life” Gallery president Laszlo Biro observed.

“Visitors to the exhibition will appreciate the delicate and deft touch of the artists.”

Laszlo said the Gallery, with support from Richmond Valley Council is offering a $2300 acquisitive prize

trained in drawing and oil painting at Julian Ashton’s Art School and studied Art History at Sydney University before deciding to ‘give watercolour a try’.

” Well, as many watercolourists will till you, this medium can be diffcult to control,” Harry said.

“It can at times be fun and other times frustrating. But it is well worth the effort!

“To watch the colours

to paint his entry

Chiaroscuro no 1

Old Man due to his admiration of the masters of light and dark, Michelangelo and Leonardo da vinci.

“I wanted to go to the maximum of light and dark using the Italian chiaroscuro (the treatment of light and shade in drawing and painting) of the old masters to create a haunting piece using modern media,” Kevin said.

will be held at 4pm, Saturday 21st, $10 entry includes wine and cheese. Judge Harry Westera will announce the winner and provide comments at the event.

The exhibition will be on display during the Gallery’s opening hours: 10am to 3pm Thursday Friday and Saturday 21st September to 12th October with a gold coin donation.

Chiaroscuro Old Man by Lismore artist Kevin Lawlor is one of the many paintings on display at Cassino Gallery’s Watercolour exhibition opening Saturday 21st September.

CLARENCE VALLEY ABORIGINAL ARTIST’S WORK HONOURED IN NSW PARLIAMENT’S

BICENTENARY UNVEILING

Today marks a signifcant achievement for Clarence Valley Aboriginal artist Kim Healey, whose artwork has been commissioned as part of the NSW Parliament’s Legislative Council Bicentenary celebrations.

Unveiled today by the President of the Legislative Council, Ben Franklin, Kim’s major artwork titled Ngurra Jagun—meaning “Home Country” will now take pride of place in the Fountain Court public foyer, where it will be prominently displayed for all to see.

Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, who recently viewed the exquisite piece in Kim’s gallery, expressed his pride in seeing a local artist receive such prestigious recognition.

“Kim is a proud Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung woman whose work not only showcases her immense talent, but also brings attention to the rich cultural heritage of our region. Her storytelling through art invites deep refection on the history, traditions, and future of the First Nations people of NSW,” he said.

“The artwork, Ngurra Jagun embodies the deep connection of Aboriginal people to the land and waters, where the NSW Parliament stands today.

Kim’s connection to country and culture is refected in every piece she creates.

“I encourage everyone to visit the NSW Parliament and experience the beauty and depth of Kim’s work, which stands as a symbol of the strong

relationship between the Parliament and the Aboriginal community.”

President of the Legislative Council, Ben Franklin MLC praised the signifcance of the artwork.

“This artwork not only commemorates our past, it also invites

contemplation of the kind of future we aim to build together, and our ongoing commitment to reconciliation with the diverse Aboriginal communities of our state,” Mr Franklin said.

Kim Healey describes her artwork as “a correlation between the Southern Cross and how our culture is our compass. The inner design, with traditional overlayed patterns and symbols, acknowledges community, world views, meeting places, and unity. The bordering design pays respect to my Saltwater/ Freshwater heritage of my Bundjalung and Gumbaynggirr nations.”

The commissioning of Ngurra Jagun is part of the broader commitment by the NSW Parliament to engage with and honour the state’s First Nations communities and will stand as a lasting legacy of the Bicentenary celebrations.

Following today’s unveiling, ‘Ngurra Jagun’ can be viewed by the public during the opening hours of NSW Parliament House (9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays). A mini documentary will be released in the coming weeks, covering the journey of the artwork and its creation.

Supporting the Productivity of Heavy Vehicles

ROBERT HEYWARD

Regulations under the Heavy Vehicle National Law have been updated to boost productivity and improve safety and environmental outcomes for the heavy vehicle sector. Starting 1 November 2024, general access mass limits for heavy vehicles will increase by 500kg for trucks that comply with Euro VI or equivalent

noxious emissions standards.

This change is part of the government’s broader effort to tighten noxious emissions standards for new trucks and buses, which will also come into effect on 1 November 2024. The updated mass limits aim to not only enhance trucking productivity but also reduce emissions from Australia’s heavy vehicle feet, contributing to better environmental

outcomes.

The amendments to the mass limits were implemented under the Heavy Vehicle National Law, which is legislated in Queensland and adopted by participating states and territories. This increase in allowable mass for compliant vehicles is a signifcant step towards modernizing Australia’s heavy vehicle feet, promoting greater safety and effciency

Salt Water in the Veins: Three Generations of Peppers in Surf Life Saving

For many, being part of a local surf club feels like family, and for the Pepper family, it truly is. This year, North Coast Branch President Les Pepper will see his granddaughter, Khloe, join patrols at Woolgoolga SLSC as an SRC (Surf Rescue Certifcate) member, alongside her mother, Karley, and grandfather. It will mark the frst time three generations of the Pepper family wear the iconic red and yellow together.

Les and his wife Lorraine began their Surf Life Saving journey like many others, volunteering as water safety parents for their children’s Nippers.

Over 40 years later, Les has taken on numerous roles, from IRB racing to leadership positions, but he’s now back in the water on Sundays, providing water safety for his granddaughter.

“It’s so good going back to where I started. I really love it,” Les said, excited for Khloe’s new role on patrols.

“Being part of a surf club is unique. It’s rare to fnd an activity where the whole family can participate together.”

while meeting stringent environmental standards. Collaboration between state and territory governments, the National Transport Commission, and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has been crucial in achieving these improvements. For more information, visit the Queensland legislation site: www. legislation.qld.gov.au/ view/html/asmade/ sl-2024-0201.

For Karley, growing up in the surf club community has been pivotal. Refecting on the experience, she expressed her gratitude toward her parents for introducing her to Nippers in the ‘80s.

“I’m so thankful for the friendships and skills Surf Life Saving has given me. Seeing Khloe now benefting from the same community puts a smile on my face.”

Twelve-year-old Khloe, following in her family’s footsteps, is already forming lifelong friendships through the club. “I love meeting new people at carnivals, hanging out with friends, and competing,” she said.

Les and Karley both highlight the personal growth and confdence the surf club fosters.

They’ve seen many kids blossom from shy beginnings into confdent individuals, a transformation they’re proud to witness in their own family.

As the new season approaches, the Pepper family is preparing for another year of patrols, eager to welcome the next generation of lifesavers to the beach.

Kim Healey & Ben Franklin

Kim Healey & Richie Williams

Northern Rivers community resilience efforts recognised in NSW Awards

Healthy North Coast’s Community Wellbeing and Resilience program has been recognised for its efforts in building community health and wellbeing resilience in the face of increasing climate disasters, winning the Resilient Australia Mental Health and Wellbeing Award for NSW.

Healthy North Coast’s entry, titled ‘Climate Ready North Coast: Elevating the community service sector’, showcases the work being done as part of the Community Wellbeing and Resilience program, which resources community-led, placebased initiatives that support better health and wellbeing through disaster recovery, and build community’s ability to face future challenges.

Monika Wheeler, CEO of Healthy North Coast,

celebrated the award win and acknowledged the great work being undertaken across the North Coast:

“Northern NSW is one of the highest disaster

“Congratulations also to the other North Coast organisations who received an award.”

declared regions in the country for frequency and severity across all three measures of fre, food and storm.

Together with SouthEast Queensland, our North Coast region has been labelled a disaster ‘hotspot’.

“For this reason, a connected, engaged and vibrant community who support each other in times of need is so important.

“It’s been wonderful to have this important work recognised at a state

level. Congratulations to the terrifc local community organisations doing great work for their communities on the North Coast through this program.

“Congratulations also to the other North

Sweetnam Park at Uki set for major revamp with upgrade on the way

The Council is inviting community feedback on the Draft Concept Plan for upgrading Sweetnam Park in Uki, with a focus on making the park more foodresilient, welcoming, and accessible.

To engage the community, a complimentary breakfast and children’s activities will be held at Sweetnam Park on Sunday, 22 September, from 9 AM to 11 AM. Residents are encouraged to attend, learn about the proposed upgrades, and provide their input.

The upgrade is part of a $15.5 million funding package from the Australian and NSW Governments, aimed at restoring and enhancing community assets that were damaged during storms or foods. Sweetnam Park suffered signifcant damage in the February 2022 foods, particularly affecting its park and playground areas.

The proposed improvements include:

• New play equipment for children aged 2 to 13 years, with inclusive features to ensure accessibility for all.

• Natural play elements, such as a cubby and climbing net.

• A half basketball court for youth and small-scale skate elements.

• Seating, picnic tables, a shelter, and a drinking fountain.

• Connecting pathways, as well as landscaping and tree planting.

Council’s Manager of Parks and Active Communities, Murray Smith, highlighted

the importance of rebuilding resilient and inclusive spaces for the community. “This project will ensure Sweetnam Park remains a safe and inviting space for both residents and visitors,” said Mr. Smith. He expressed gratitude for the support from the Australian and NSW Governments in helping communities recover from food damage.

The Draft Concept Plan is available for public viewing until 4 PM, 27 October 2024. The community is encouraged to view the plans and provide feedback at yoursaytweed.com.au/ sweetnampark.

Coast organisations who received an award.”

Dr Jean Renouf, Founder and CEO of Plan C, was also present at the awards ceremony:

“I am so pleased to know that Healthy North Coast’s work in support

of community resilience has been recognised with this signifcant award.

“Plan C has received funding under the Community Resilience and Wellbeing program in the past and we have seen frst-hand its impact

and relevance. It’s an intelligent program of high quality, that brings a number of community organisations together to further our collective impact. The award is really well-deserved. Congratulations!”

Pictured L-R: Kate Van Saane (Healthy North Coast), Jihad Dib (NSW Minister for Emergency Services), Monika Wheeler (CEO Healthy North Coast), Dr Jean Renouf (Founder and CEO, Plan C), Joanna Quilty (NSW Reconstruction Authority). Image courtesy of NSW Reconstruction Authority.

The existing facilities at Uki’s Sweetnam Park are set for an upgrade and residents are invited to provide input into the Draft Concept Plan.

ROBERT HEYWARD

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

THE ‘FELINE’ INFLUENCERS

nifty plan.

‘It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ back; I have a question for ‘Mum Jane’. ‘Mum, as you know I’ve been writing about lots of stu from a feline perspective (with my buddies) for more than 4 years now. HowEVER, Mum, I’ve recently gured on changing the stu I write about & I’d very much like your views; I reckon I’d like to be a Feline INFLUENCER; with Christmas coming up me & my buddies want to make money for pressies & treats. We will all contribute to the ‘Feline In uencer’ reviews & share the pro ts equally. Whaddya reckon? Would you be able to help us get going Mumsie?’ She glared at me intently.

‘Stop sucking up Leems; just round up your buddies please. I have a few questions for you all before I commit to being ANY part of yet another one of your outrageous plans. Remember the one you all had about making $ by chasing ‘chip stealing’ seagulls at the Opera House?

Or the one where you all dressed up as dogs, created mayhem on our lookout by yowling Xmas Carols & tried to blame innocent puppies from the street..REMEMBER??

Oh, go on then, get your buddies.’ I was o like a rocket & in 10 mins we were all gathered, breathless with anticipation. Mum bossily told us all to sit and behave as she had a few questions we had to answer. ‘OK you lot, what’s your Strategic Plan? How much do you have in Venture Capital? Have you agreed on the range of Products & Services

you wish to promote to in uences sales?’ Eeeek! We asked Mum to leave the room to have a secret discussion. ‘Pasqualie’ spoke & said ‘Leemo, I have no idea what the hell Mum Jane talking about? What does strategic mean? Has she been drinking wine?’ ‘Milo’ spoke up. ‘Leemo, what is Venture Capital pray tell?’ Oooh, Mum re-entered the room. As ‘Spokescat’ for our group, I quickly told her we were still working on our Strategic Plan but had $134.47 between us for start-up costs. She looked stunned. Hmmm?! (We cats were xated on something else ‘cos outside the window a lucky Magpie hopped around with a long worm in his beak.) ‘Well, HAVE you at least considered the Products & Services’ you are planning to endorse? Well, that got a huge response…paws raised in unison with cheers. ‘BE QUIET all of you; answer this rst. Have any of you heard of the ‘6 P’ Rule of Business Start up Plans? ‘Brutus’ spoke eloquently & said ‘NUP.’ (Mum looked more stunned) but ‘Flu y Bum’ interjected & said proudly they are Purpose, Philosophy, Promise, Policies, Plans & Priorities. (Paw claps!) Mum thanked him but said a new set of rules now apply. She spoke loudly; ‘the 6 Ps are Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance.’ Gottit?’ We were shocked; she continued. ‘AND, from what I have gleaned, your pre-planning is atrocious. I want you all to go away; come back in 2 weeks a er you apply more detail & do a resubmit before “I” become involved. OK?’ OMG, mayhem & arguments erupted about our preferred endorsement dreams; the ‘Paws & Claws’ nail salon: the new ‘Delishmush’ Cat Food: the new Electric Feline ‘Rub-Blankie’ for comfort; the new ‘Self-Cleaning Litter Tray.’ Crikey! I called successfully for calm & Mum gave us treats & plush blankies & turned the TV on to ‘Bluey’. All is well. (‘til our next meeting!?) OMG! What to do next? Nitey, Leemo.

Tweed Community Groups Invited to Apply for Australia Day Event Funding

IAN ROGERS

Community organisations across the Tweed are encouraged to apply for fnancial assistance from Tweed Shire Council to host Australia Day events in 2025. This funding is available for small-scale events held within three days of Australia Day, offering groups an opportunity to celebrate the occasion in ways that refect their local identity.

Mathew Greenwood, Council’s Acting Manager of Corporate Governance, highlighted the importance of these events in fostering community connection.

“With this funding, we’re enabling groups to celebrate Australia

Day in a manner that refects their unique local character,” Mr Greenwood said. “Local Australia Day gatherings bring our diverse communities together in a meaningful way, and we’re excited to see the events our community groups have in store.”

FUNDING LEVELS

The amount of funding provided is based on the expected attendance, with the following three categories of support:

• Category 1: $300 for events with up to 149 participants

• Category 2: $400 for events expecting 150–249 participants

• Category 3: $500 for events with 250 or more participants Community

organisations applying for the frst time will automatically be placed in Category 1.

ELIGIBILITY

REQUIREMENTS

To qualify for funding, organisations must:

• Be located within the Tweed region and provide an outline of the planned event

• Be an incorporated body with public liability insurance

• Ensure the event is open to the public, not limited to members or private businesses

In addition, successful applicants must:

• List their event on Council’s calendar of events at whatsontweed. com.au

• Acknowledge Council’s support in all promotional materials

and on the event day

For events held on Council-managed land, such as parks or beaches, all necessary permits and approvals must be obtained.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applications will be reviewed by the Tweed Shire Australia Day Awards Selection Panel in late October 2024.

To apply, complete the application form available on Council’s Australia Day webpage and submit it by midnight on Friday 11 October 2024. This initiative provides community groups with the chance to contribute to the celebration of Australia Day while fostering unity and pride across the Tweed region.

Tweed Heads Family Wins $400,000 on First-Ever Keno Game

ROBERT HEYWARD

A family from Tweed Heads, New South Wales, experienced the shock of a lifetime after a spontaneous decision to dine out led them to a $400,000 Keno win on their very frst try.

The lucky family took home a total prize of $410,939.50 after hitting the Keno Mega Millions 8 Spot jackpot in draw 520, on Wednesday, 11 September 2024.

The winning husband, still in disbelief, shared his excitement after a long and exhausting day at work turned into an unforgettable night. “It hasn’t sunk in yet! It feels like a dream,” he exclaimed.

After a particularly challenging day, the husband suggested to his wife that they go out for dinner instead of cooking at home. While at South Tweed Sports Club, the couple, with no prior Keno experience, decided to try their luck, purchasing three games. Initially, they weren’t sure how to play and sought assistance from staff members.

To their surprise, after missing the frst game and seeing no wins in the next two, excitement swept the venue as it was announced that someone had won. Unsure if it was them, the husband checked his ticket, and when it was confrmed, they were

over the moon.

“My wife went crazy, jumping and screaming. I wish I had captured it on video!” he said, describing the surreal moment.

Though the family has yet to make frm plans for the windfall, the husband expressed his intention to make thoughtful decisions, saying, “We’ll defnitely take some time to think about how to use it wisely. A bit will go to any bills we have, and we’ll plan for the rest.”

Ben Gonzalez, Keno operations manager at South Tweed Sports Club, was equally thrilled for the family, stating, “We’re over the moon. It’s been years since we had a big win

like this. The entire club and community are buzzing with excitement!”

This win adds to an impressive streak for Keno players across Australia. In FY24 alone, players across eastern Australia celebrated 78.5 million wins, collectively worth over $1.16 billion. The year also saw 18 new Keno millionaires, including eight winners from New South Wales and the ACT.

As for the fortunate Tweed Heads family, their unexpected Keno victory proves that sometimes, even the most casual decisions can lead to life-changing moments.

NSW Speed Adviser App Update Enhances Safety at Level Crossings

ROBERT HEYWARD

As part of Rural Road Safety Month, the Minns Labor Government has announced a signifcant update to the Speed Adviser App, aimed at improving safety at level crossings across New South Wales. The app, which helps motorists manage their speed with visual and audible alerts, now includes notifcations for over 1,300 public road level crossings in the state. This update, which was soft launched earlier this year, is designed to encourage safer driving behaviours, especially in regional areas where level crossings are common.

The Speed Adviser App provides real-time speed zone information and alerts drivers when they exceed the speed limit, enter mobile speed camera zones, or travel through active school zones. With the new update, the app will now issue warnings when approaching level crossings, notifying drivers with the message, “Caution, rail crossing ahead.” This feature is expected to play a crucial role in reducing

accidents by reminding motorists to slow down and remain alert as they near crossings. Regional motorists, who frequently encounter level crossings during their commutes, will particularly beneft from the new alerts.

Speeding continues to be a leading factor in road fatalities, and the Speed Adviser App assists drivers in adhering to speed limits, contributing to safer road conditions.

Between July 2014 and June 2024, there were

RICHMOND

$78,000

Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson has welcomed the successful application from Richmond Valley Council under the NSW Government’s Get NSW Active program, which supports local councils in delivering projects which create safe and enjoyable walking and bike riding experiences.

Richmond Valley Council has secured $78,196 for the West Street, Casino, footpath project. The footpath, which is used heavily by both primary and high school students, will undergo important improvements to enhance safety and

64 collisions between trains and road vehicles at level crossings in NSW, resulting in 8 fatalities and 9 serious injuries. In response to these concerning statistics, the NSW Government is taking a comprehensive approach to enhancing safety. This includes educational campaigns, infrastructure investments, and the adoption of advanced technology.

In August 2024, the NSW Government announced a $1.2 million

trial of the Rail Active Crossing Systems (RAXS) at Callaghans Level Crossing near Quirindi. This project aims to convert a passive crossing into an active one, featuring fashing lights and bells to provide clearer warnings to motorists and reduce the risk of accidents.

The Speed Adviser App, celebrating its 10th anniversary, has been downloaded 120,000 times since its launch and continues to be a vital tool for road safety

across NSW. The app is available on both Apple and Android devices, offering free and accessible support for drivers.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, highlighted the importance of the update during Rural Road Safety Month: “I want to take this opportunity to remind motorists in our regions to be extra cautious on our roads.

The Speed Adviser App is a great tool to

help drivers stay aware of speed limits and now, with the added level crossing alerts, it provides an even greater layer of safety for everyone.”

For more information about the Speed Adviser App and to download it, visit NSW Road Safety’s website. Or scan the QR Code below for your device.

VALLEY COUNCIL SECURES

FOR CASINO FOOTPATH UPGRADE

accessibility.

The project involves the replacement of 120 metres of footpath between North and Pratt streets with a new 1.8-metre-wide concrete path and the construction of 62 metres of footpath between Pratt and Johnston streets.

Mr Williamson praised the initiative, highlighting its importance for local communities.

“What this is about is delivering community infrastructure which makes local are as better to live in,” Mr Williamson said.

“We don’t want to tell

people how to run their lives, but we do want to give them more choices to lead healthy and active lives.

“Get NSW Active is a fantastic program, and I’m delighted to see local councils take advantage of it to improve walkability and cycling safety.”

General Manager

Vaughan Macdonald said Council was grateful for the support it had received from Richie Williamson and the NSW Government for this project.

“It is important we invest in community facilities which make our region a great place

to live, work and play,” he said.

The NSW Government’s Get NSW Active program continues to fund projects which help create vibrant centres and liveable neighbourhoods, ensuring communities have safe, accessible infrastructure that encourages walking and cycling as part of daily life.

In 2022, Clarence Valley Council was also successful in securing a $953,700 grant for a footpath project in Yamba, connecting Gumnut Drive to Shores Drive.

“FROM time immemorial,” said the award-winning John Galsworthy, “we have allowed ourselves to be driven by those powerful drivers, Bread, and Praise, and cared little for the quality of either. Sensibly, or insensibly, we tune our songs to earn the nuts of our twilight forest. We tune them, not to the key of: “Is it good?” but to the key of: “Will it pay?” and at each tuning the nuts fall fast!”

It is incredible that the above passage was written in 1912, and that Galsworthy wouldn’t go on to win his Nobel Prize in Literature for another 20-years, but the essence of his ‘wild’ observation has remained true to this day. Because praise, in all its varied forms, has never ceased to be the right royal chestnut, throughout all of human history. Whether it is earned, sought, given, or obtained under false pretences, the effect it creates is unlike anything else in the social world.

As if to highlight, if not outright reiterate this very point, the American motivational writer, William Arthur Ward once astutely noted, “Blessed are they who have learned to admire but not envy, to follow but not imitate, to praise but not flatter, and to lead but not manipulate.”

And arguably, if anyone could navigate their way through these four potentially serrated ‘perils’, they would be well placed to live a life worthy of the highest praise.

Fascinatingly, the clue to understanding the benefits of praise is contained at the very tail-end of the word itself. That the word and

Six New Patient-Flow Concierge Offcers to Ease Emergency Department Pressure in Northern NSW Hospitals

ROBERT HEYWARD

notion of ‘raise’ rises from right to left like a wave of affirmation is something so many of us seem to miss when it comes to getting the best out of others. Which is a point clearly not lost upon Frederick B. Harris when he once suggested, “There is no verbal vitamin more potent than praise.” The subsequent tonic it generates when it is given in the right spirit creates a level of mental health and worth that is astonishingly unique to itself.

As such, the right words given by the right person at the right time have a potency that can help us to overcome any hurdle or challenge, irrespective of how insurmountable they might appear. However, there are times that unconditional praise works against us, and clearly there are times that we need to hear what could be done better. Like Norman Vincent Peale once said, “The trouble with most of us is that we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism.”

There is a seeming logic to improvement and genuine progress that can only be attained when a positive, holistic approach is sought and accepted, one that includes and embraces feedback from all perspectives. Choosing to only hear what is praiseworthy is a fault of personality that ends in a reduced capacity to achieve our highest potential. As the French thinker Paul Ricoeur once observed, “The logic of validation allows us to move between the two limits of dogmatism and scepticism,” not to mention also beyond the confines of the accepted, and the status quo.

The NSW Government will roll out 86 dedicated patient-fow concierge offcers across the state, including six positions in the Northern NSW Local Health District, as part of a broader effort to alleviate pressure on emergency departments (EDs). These roles will help clinical staff manage patient fow more effciently and streamline the discharge process, enhancing both patient communication and the overall hospital

experience, particularly for National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) recipients and residential aged care residents awaiting discharge.

The introduction of patient-fow concierge offcers is part of the $480.7 million emergency department relief package included in the Minns Labor Government’s state budget announced in June.

Other Key Measures in the ED Relief Package:

• $171.4 million to

expand virtual care services, helping 180,000 people avoid ED visits.

• $100 million to enhance urgent care services, providing alternative pathways to hospital care for approximately 114,000 patients.

• $70 million to expand emergency department short stay units, reducing wait times by nearly 80,000 hours.

• $31.4 million to increase Hospital in the Home services, enabling 3,500 additional patients each year to receive care at home rather than in a

hospital bed.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn welcomed the new positions for the Northern NSW Local Health District, emphasizing the importance of reducing long hospital stays.

“Discharging patients can be an admin-heavy task that takes clinicians away from patient care,” she said. “These new roles will help get patients home as soon as possible, allowing doctors, nurses, and staff to focus on treating other patients.”

New Koala Fence to Reduce Road Deaths in Lismore Area

ROBERT HEYWARD

Lismore City Council has appointed Ecoteam to manage the installation of a koala exclusion fence on the corner of Tatham Road and the Bruxner Highway at Tatham. This project aims to reduce the number of koala deaths and injuries in a known roadkill hotspot, approximately 12 km west of Lismore.

The key components of the project include:

• 1.5km of fencing along both sides of the Bruxner Highway, starting at Pelican Creek Bridge and extending 120m along Tatham Road.

• A safe crossing

point under Pelican Creek Bridge and the installation of fauna escape structures.

• Koala grids (similar to cattle grids) across three driveways to prevent koalas from entering roads.

Jack Herington, Council’s Environmental Strategies Offcer, explained that the fencing will guide koalas away from dangerous

traffc areas towards safe crossing points, and the installation of one-way escape poles will help any koalas that may accidentally enter the road area.

The project, which faced delays due to the 2022 natural disaster and logistical challenges, was strongly supported by the community during public consultation and is expected to be completed

in the second half of next year, pending weather conditions.

The initiative is a collaboration between Lismore City Council, Friends of the Koala, Transport for NSW, and the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), with funding from DCCEEW to help protect the local koala population.

The upshot of praise… by Nigel Dawe

Koala exclusion fence on Skyline Road.

Free Bike Safety and Maintenance Workshops This October

JEFF GIBBS

Ballina Shire Council is offering two free bike safety workshops during the upcoming school holidays on Wednesday, October 2, and Wednesday, October 9, 2024.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, these workshops provide the perfect opportunity to have your bike inspected by professionals, receive valuable safety tips, and get answers to any questions you may have about bike maintenance and road safety. The workshops will cover:

• Comprehensive bike safety checks (please note that no repairs will be conducted onsite, and no parts will be supplied)

• Basic bike maintenance tips and advice

• Proper helmet ftting techniques

• Guidelines for riding on roads, shared paths, and rail trails

• E-bike regulations

• Safety tips for cycling with children Workshop Details:

Wednesday, October 2, 2024

• Location: Lennox Head Cultural Centre, Meeting Rooms 1, 2 & 3

• Time: 9:30 AM –11:30 AM

• Address: 1 Mackney Lane, Lennox Head

• Registration: Via the QR code.

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

• Location: Richmond Room, Ballina

• Time: 9:30 AM –11:30 AM

• Address: 5 Regatta Avenue, Ballina

• Registration: Via the QR code. Each workshop is limited to 30 participants and will run for approximately two hours. Don’t forget to bring your own bike and any safety-related questions you might have!

For more information, please contact Helen Carpenter, Road Safety Offcer, at 1300 864 444 or email council@ ballina.nsw.gov.au.

Lennox Bookings:

Ballina Bookings:

Photo credit Copyright State of New South Wales (Transport for NSW)

Free Term 4 Go4Fun Healthy Lifestyle Programs Filling Fast

Families in Northern NSW are encouraged to enrol in the Go4Fun program, a free 10-week after-school initiative designed to help children aged 7–13 and their families adopt healthier lifestyles. The program provides tips on staying active, healthy eating, and overall wellbeing.

Kathryn Watson, Acting Director of Integrated Care and Allied Health Services at the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD), noted that enrolments for Term 4 programs in Banora Point, Pottsville, Murwillumbah, and Grafton are flling quickly due to the program’s local focus and community support.

Go4Fun offers fun games, activities, and prizes, while helping families connect with their community. For those unable to attend in person, Go4Fun Online offers fexibility, allowing families to start the program at any time.

Term 4 Locations and Start Dates:

• Banora Point:

Connect You Too has been busy helping the community get out and about during August 2024.

In August 2024, we did a total of 2,681 trips with a total of 87,673 service kms. Our popular destinations included 97 trips to Ballina; 36 trips to Coffs Harbour; 19 trips to the Gold Coast; 784 trips to Grafton; 117 trips to Lismore and 337 trips to the Yamba/ Maclean area. We managed to get the community to 1035 Specialist and GP appointments; 202 Hospital visits (Day Surgery drop off/pickup); 349 social trips &

Wednesdays, 4pm–6pm, starting 16 October (10 weeks)

Location: Springloaded Banora Point, The Salvation Army Centre, CNR Woodlands & Leisure Dr, Banora Point

• Grafton: Thursdays, 4pm–6pm, starting 24 October (9 weeks)

Location: South Grafton High School, Tyson St, South Grafton

• Murwillumbah: Mondays, 4pm–6pm, starting 14 October (9 weeks)

Location: Murwillumbah Community Centre, Knox Park, Nullum St, Murwillumbah

• Pottsville: Mondays, 4pm–5:30pm, starting 14 October (10 weeks)

Location: Pottsville Beach Public School, Tweed Coast Rd, Pottsville

If spots are full, families can join the waitlist.

For more information, visit www.go4fun.com. au or contact the NNSWLHD Go4Fun Program Leader, Leah Callaghan, at 0427 299 335.

Richmond-Tweed Families Buckling Under Cost-of-Living Pressures: New NCOSS Research

A new report from the NSW Council of Social Service (NCOSS) has revealed that nearly two-thirds (64%) of low-income households in the Richmond-Tweed region are struggling with housing stress due to escalating cost-ofliving pressures. The report, titled Impossible Choices: Decisions NSW communities shouldn’t have to make, was conducted by the University of Technology Sydney and surveyed over 1,080 low-income residents across NSW.

Key Findings in Richmond-Tweed:

• 64% of households are in housing stress, spending over 30% of their income on housing.

• 61% have no money saved for emergencies.

• 51% went without prescribed medication or healthcare.

• 38% could not afford essential travel, such as for work or education.

• 38% went without meals due to fnancial shortages.

• 35% used buy-nowpay-later services to afford essential goods like food and transport.

NCOSS CEO Cara Varian emphasized the devastating impact these fnancial pressures

are having on families in Richmond-Tweed. “Families should not have to choose between paying for food or medication,” she said. “These impossible choices set up intergenerational disadvantage, and we must do better.”

Statewide Trends: Across NSW, the report revealed that single parents are among the hardest hit, with 90% going without essentials over the past year. NSW children are also disproportionately affected, as three in four households (74%) cut back on spending for their children, and 52% sacrifced spending on health and wellbeing essentials.

The ripple effects

of these sacrifces are far-reaching, negatively impacting mental health, relationships, and child development.

Recommendations to Ease the Pressure:

NCOSS has put forward a series of recommendations to the NSW and Commonwealth Governments to alleviate these pressures, including:

• Lifting Commonwealth income support for Jobseeker, Youth Allowance, and Parenting Payments.

• Increasing Commonwealth Rent Assistance rates.

• Providing universal early childcare.

• Ensuring 10% of NSW housing is social and affordable.

Connect You Too August Wrap Up

777 shopping trips.

In August, our social trips travelled to Harwood for Sunshine Sugar’s 150 years history display at the Harwood Hall and lunch at the Harwood Hotel. This month we are off to Byron Bay to go on the Byron Solar Train followed by lunch at the North Byron Hotel. Our Clarence Meals service delivered 1810 meals, 428 desserts and 120 soups during August 2024. We were able to do welfare checks, have a quick chat and help our customers see a friendly face.

Clarence Meals provides delivered meals

to Iluka, Maclean and Yamba and surrounds from suppliers including Gourmet Meals, Lite n’ Easy and Meals on Wheels Grafton. For more information call 6646 6742.

Looking for a new

home care package provider? HART

Services is available via our Townsend Connect You Too offces.For more information, call 1300 874 278.

If you need help with transport or meals, call

• Implementing fair and reasonable rental increases and legislating against no-grounds evictions and rental bidding.

• Introducing a universal school food program in NSW.

• Expanding public transport concessions and improving regional bus networks.

The report underscores the urgency of addressing the fnancial strain on low-income households and highlights the government’s potential to drive meaningful change.

For the full report, visit the CR code below.

Defnitions:

• Below the poverty line: Households earning less than 50% of the median NSW income after tax and housing costs (below $560 per week).

• Low-income households: Households earning 50-80% of the median NSW income after tax and housing costs ($560–$896 per week).

Connect You Too at Townsend on 6645 3200 to see if you qualify for any subsidies or assistance.

SAVE THE DATE!

Connect You Too is proud to provide our valuable services to the Clarence Valley community and look forward to welcoming everyone at our Rio Carnival open day, onsite at 134 Jubilee Street, Townsend on Wednesday 18th September between 10am and 2pm.

We will have stands from various suppliers and our new electric and hybrid vehicles and bus feet will be on display. We will have giveaways

and games to enjoy while meeting our team, who will be dressed in Rio Carnival fanfare and delight in our free morning tea and lunch treats.

Visitors will get to taste our meal samples from Clarence Meal’s suppliers – Gourmet Meals, Lite n’ Easy and Meals on Wheels Grafton. Visitors will also be able to go for a sample trip in our new modifed vehicle – the Hyundai Staria, with the wheelchair and wheelie walker friendly rear ramp.

Book your FREE transport to the event on 6645 3200.

Kyogle Soul Pattinson Chemist

DJI has once again pushed the boundaries of portable drone technology with the release of its latest model, the DJI Neo. Weighing in at just 135 grams — less than the average smartphone — this featherweight drone is designed with beginners in mind, offering a powerful blend of simplicity, versatility, and affordability.

Priced at $299, the Neo positions itself as an entry-level option for vloggers, hobbyists, and anyone wanting to capture high-quality footage on the go. One of the standout features of the DJI Neo is its ease of use. Palm takeoff and landing eliminate the need for bulky controllers, allowing the drone to launch directly from your hand. This, combined with AI-powered

subject tracking, makes it perfect for users seeking hands-free video capture. Whether you’re skateboarding through a park or hiking a scenic trail, the Neo stays focused on you, making it an ideal tool for capturing dynamic content.

Despite its small size, the DJI Neo doesn’t skimp on camera quality. It records 4K video at 30 frames per second and captures 12MP still photos, ensuring high-quality footage even in challenging conditions. Stabilization features like RockSteady and HorizonBalancing provide smooth videos, even in windy environments with gusts up to 30 kmph. However, unlike some of DJI’s more advanced drones, the Neo lacks obstacle avoidance. This limitation means users will need to fy cautiously to avoid crashes.

The drone’s QuickShots feature allows for cinematic, automated fight paths with just a tap. Additionally, the Neo supports voice control in both English and Mandarin, further simplifying the user experience. This functionality is especially benefcial for vloggers and social media content creators looking to flm themselves while performing various activities. In terms of battery life, the Neo offers a modest 18 minutes of fight time per charge, which is relatively short compared to higher-end models like the DJI Mini 3 that provide up to 38 minutes. However, given the Neo’s price point, this fight duration is more than adequate for quick shoots. The drone charges via USB-C and can be fully recharged in just 50 minutes, making it convenient for users on

the go.

DJI has also introduced a Two-Way Charging Hub, allowing users to charge three batteries simultaneously, which can be purchased separately. This accessory is especially useful for those who plan to use the drone extensively without access to a power source. Durability is another area where DJI has made notable strides with the Neo. The drone features a fexible

feature for novices. Its lightweight design not only enhances portability but also ensures that it can be easily packed into a small bag or even a pocket.

The DJI Neo is squarely aimed at casual users and content creators looking for an affordable yet capable drone. Its simplifed controls, intelligent features, and compact design make it an attractive option for those new to drones.

on the market. Pre-orders are already available, with shipping expected to begin in early October. Overall, the DJI Neo represents a perfect balance of performance and convenience for everyday users. While it may not offer the advanced capabilities of its higher-end counterparts, it more than makes up for it with ease of use, portability, and affordability—making

frame and full-coverage propeller guards, which help protect it during crashes—an essential

DJI’s decision to price the Neo at $299 makes it one of the most accessible camera drones

aerial photography and videography accessible to a wider audience than ever before.

LIAM JENNINGS

Apple recently introduced the AirPods 4, offering two distinct models with enhanced features. The base model is priced at $129, while the version with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) comes in at $219. Both models feature an updated design, moving away from the silicone ear tips to a universal ft, which many users will

fnd more comfortable.

The AirPods 4 come with a USB-C charging case that provides up to 30 hours of battery life, a solid offering for wireless earbuds. The ANC version offers an upgraded listening experience, especially for those looking to block out external noise without bulky ear tips. Personalized Spatial Audio and dynamic head tracking further enhance sound quality, providing

an immersive experience when watching movies or listening to music. One of the key highlights of the AirPods 4 is the H2 chip, which drives improved sound quality, better connection stability, and more effcient power usage. This chip also powers features like Adaptive Transparency and better noise-cancellation algorithms, making the ANC model stand out even further.

For those looking for alternatives, the AirPods Max also received a minor update, with a switch to USB-C and new color options. The AirPods 2 and AirPods 3 are being discontinued to make way for this refreshed lineup, marking a shift in Apple’s earbud offerings. Pre-orders are available now, and the new AirPods will be shipping on September 20, 2024.

LIAM JENNINGS

The 2025 Audi e-tron GT has been offcially revealed, showcasing a signifcant power boost, extended driving range, and updated styling. Set to arrive in European showrooms later this year, with Australian launch dates yet to be confrmed, the updated electric sedan offers cutting-edge performance and luxurious features.

The refreshed e-tron GT now includes two key variants: the S e-tron GT and the top-of-the-line RS e-tron GT Performance. Both models beneft from

a technical overhaul, with the RS Performance boasting a staggering 680kW of power, making it the most powerful Audi road car to date. Powered by a new 97kWh battery, the e-tron GT offers up to 604km of driving range, a notable improvement thanks to new battery cell chemistry and recuperation capabilities.

Performance Highlights

• The S e-tron GT delivers 500kW, an increase of 110kW over the previous base model, while the RS e-tron GT ramps up to 630kW. The top-tier RS e-tron GT Performance pushes output to 680kW, making

it just shy of the 700kW fgure from its Porsche Taycan Turbo S sibling.

• The 0-100km/h sprint has been cut to just 2.5 seconds in the RS Performance, while the S and RS variants clock in at 3.4 and 2.8 seconds, respectively.

• The upgraded battery system allows for 320kW DC fast charging, which can add 280km of range in just 10 minutes.

Mechanical and Technological Enhancements Audi has introduced a lighter rear motor and a new two-chamber adaptive air suspension system, providing a refned

2025 Audi e-tron GT Unveiled:

balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension system is shared with the Porsche Taycan, and it actively adjusts to enhance cornering and acceleration.

The braking system has also been overhauled, with larger steel brakes on the S e-tron GT, while the RS and RS Performance models come with tungsten carbide-coated or carbon-ceramic discs, respectively.

The RS Performance features a carbon-fbre roof, optional ‘carbon camoufage’ exterior trim, and a glass roof with liquid-crystal flm, which

The Polestar 4 is the latest addition to Polestar’s growing lineup of electric vehicles, positioned as a dynamic all-electric SUV coupé that combines cutting-edge design, high performance, and advanced technology. Sitting between the Polestar 2 and the luxury Polestar 3, the Polestar 4 is set to push boundaries with its futuristic aesthetics and sustainable innovations.

Design and Aesthetics

The Polestar 4 embodies a sleek, coupe-like profle with a focus on aerodynamics and a minimalist design

philosophy.

In a departure from traditional SUV styling, the Polestar 4 embraces a lower, more streamlined shape with smooth lines, frameless windows, and a bold front end devoid of a traditional grille, highlighting its fully electric nature.

One of the most striking features of the Polestar 4 is its rear-windowless design, which replaces the traditional rear window with a digital rearview camera, enhancing both the car’s futuristic look and its aerodynamic effciency.

Performance and Powertrain

The Polestar 4 is expected to offer dual-

motor all-wheel-drive confgurations, delivering a strong combination of power and effciency. While specifc power outputs are yet to be fully disclosed, early indications suggest that the Polestar 4 will offer a signifcant amount of power, rivalling other high-performance electric SUVs in its class.

With a long-range battery pack, the Polestar 4 is expected to provide an impressive range, making it suitable for both urban commutes and long-distance journeys. Fast-charging capabilities will also feature, allowing for quick top-ups on long drives.

can shift from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button.

Interior and Styling Updates Inside, Audi has upgraded the cabin with a new steering wheel, 18-way adjustable seats with massaging functions, and the use of eco-friendly materials like Dinamica suede and recycled Cascade fabric. Audi has also introduced fresh dashboard trim inlays and updated the digital instrument cluster with new displays for battery temperature and performance metrics.

On the exterior, the 2025 e-tron GT sports revised front bumpers, larger air

intakes on the RS, and an optional black grille. It also debuts Audi’s new simplifed four-ring logo, along with new 20-inch and 21-inch alloy wheels inspired by the 1991 Audi Avus concept car.

With these signifcant upgrades, Audi is positioning the 2025 e-tron GT as a highperformance electric sedan that combines luxury, cutting-edge technology, and thrilling power, solidifying its place as a strong competitor in the premium electric vehicle market.

Polestar 4: A Bold New Entry in the Electric SUV Market

Interior and Technology

Polestar has equipped the 4 with a hightech, eco-friendly interior that emphasizes sustainability. The cabin will feature recycled and vegan materials, aligning with the brand’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

Polestar’s signature Scandinavian-inspired design ensures a clean, sophisticated interior with intuitive controls and ample space.

A large infotainment screen, powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS, will dominate the dashboard, offering seamless integration with apps such as Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other connected services. Polestar’s digital experience will also be enhanced with overthe-air (OTA) updates, allowing for continuous

improvements to software features postpurchase.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Polestar vehicles are known for their focus on safety, and the Polestar 4 will likely feature the brand’s latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This could include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and advanced collision avoidance technologies. The inclusion of autonomous driving features, similar to the Polestar 3, is also anticipated, further enhancing the vehicle’s safety credentials.

Sustainability Focus

In keeping with Polestar’s sustainability goals, the Polestar 4 will prioritize ecofriendly manufacturing processes and materials. The company has set ambitious targets for reducing its carbon

emissions and increasing the use of recycled materials throughout the vehicle’s construction.

Market and Availability

The Polestar 4 is expected to launch in 2024, with deliveries beginning shortly after in key global markets, including Europe, the U.S., and China.

Positioned between the Polestar 2 and Polestar 3 in terms of price and size, the Polestar 4 aims to appeal to customers seeking a stylish, performance-oriented electric SUV without compromising on sustainability or luxury.

As Polestar continues to expand its portfolio, the Polestar 4 represents a signifcant step in the brand’s vision of redefning the electric vehicle market with innovative, sustainable, and high-performance cars.

JEFF GIBBS

JEFF GIBBS

Australia’s August Unemployment Drops to 9.1% with Part-Time Job Surge

In August 2024, Australia’s ‘real’ unemployment rate decreased by 1%, dropping to 9.1% of the workforce, following a significant rise in part-time employment. The unemployment count fell by 174,000 to 1,423,000. This reduction was driven by an increase of 136,000 part-time jobs, bringing total part-time employment to

4,901,000, while full-time employment remained steady at 9,387,000. Overall employment rose by 133,000 to 14,288,000 in August, reflecting growth in part-time jobs. Fewer Australians were looking for both full-time and part-time work, contributing to the decline in unemployment.

Labour Market Trends

Roy Morgan’s unemployment estimates, based on a national survey of Australians aged 14 and above, classified anyone seeking work as unemployed. The ‘real’ unemployment rate is calculated as a percentage of the total workforce, both employed and unemployed. Despite the improvement in

employment figures, the combined unemployment and under-employment rate still stands at 18.6%, affecting 2.92 million Australians. The underemployed, those working part-time but seeking more work, represented 9.5% of the workforce.

Michele Levine, CEO of Roy Morgan, highlighted that the surge in part-time jobs drove the drop in

unemployment, while the rapidly growing workforce—up by 377,000 over the past year—has been a key factor in the country’s employment growth.

The ABS comparison puts Roy Morgan’s 9.1% unemployment figure well above the ABS estimate of 4.2% for July. However, when combined with under-employment, the

ABS figure reaches a comparable 10.5%. Impact and Challenges While the job market has made strides in absorbing the growing workforce, the high level of labour under-utilisation remains a challenge. Addressing the persistent issue of unemployment and under-employment will continue to be a priority for the Australian government workforce.

Source: Roy Morgan Single Source January 2019 – August 2024. Average monthly interviews 5,000.

Note: Roy Morgan unemployment estimates are actual data while the ABS estimates are seasonally adjusted.

The RBA Governor’s Shocking Alert: What It Could Mean for Interest Rates

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) governor Michele Bullock’s recent comments about the potential need for some homeowners to sell due to rising mortgage pressures have sparked concern and could influence future economic policies, particularly regarding interest rates. What does this mean for interest rates?

Bullock’s warning comes at a time when inflation is putting severe pressure on borrowers, particularly the 5% of variable-rate

owner-occupiers in particularly challenging situations. However, Bullock clarified that while some borrowers may struggle, the situation does not pose a material risk to the overall financial system.

This signals that the RBA remains cautious about cutting rates too soon, despite financial markets and banks, like Commonwealth Bank, predicting possible rate cuts before the end of 2024. According to Bullock, a more realistic timeline for rate cuts is next year, as inflation

remains a pressing concern. The RBA continues to emphasize the balancing act between reducing inflation and not further stifling economic growth.

Impact on housing affordability and the economy Housing affordability has reached its lowest point since 1996, with the average mortgage repayment now consuming 48.1% of the median family income, according to the Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA). High

interest rates are driving mortgage stress, reducing discretionary spending, and causing a decline in household savings. Even a modest reduction in interest rates could bring significant relief to homeowners, as each 0.25% reduction could improve affordability by 0.85 percentage points.

Economic and political reactions

Bullock’s comments also drew political reactions.

Opposition MP Sussan Ley questioned why Australia has not followed countries like the UK and

US in lowering interest rates, while Labor MP Jason Clare highlighted the human cost of the governor’s warning, stressing the difficulty for individuals facing the prospect of losing their homes. With the economy growing at its slowest rate since the 1990s (excluding the COVID-19 pandemic), this issue is becoming increasingly central in the lead-up to the next federal election, likely in May 2025.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has defended the government’s handling of

the economic slowdown, attributing it largely to high interest rates. While he emphasized cooperation with the RBA, he also subtly redirected criticism toward former treasurer Wayne Swan, who accused the RBA of prioritizing economic dogma over rational decision-making.

Conclusion

While financial markets are hopeful for rate cuts, Bullock’s cautious stance suggests that the RBA will wait until inflation is more firmly under control. Homeowners are likely to face continued financial strain until then, with any relief in interest rates likely to come in 2025, assuming inflationary pressures ease. This balance between controlling inflation and protecting homeowners from severe mortgage stress will continue to shape economic and political debates.

IAN ROGERS

RBA governor Michelle Bullock said some home owners may need to sell. Picture: Getty

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

Refections & Lessons from a Quarter Century of Subtropical Rainforest Restoration

• The evolution of our assisted natural regeneration methodology

• Local weed threatsID and treatments

Goonengerry Landcare and Federal Landcare invite you to join us for a workshop to refect on 25 years of rainforest restoration asking the questions - what’s worked, what hasn’t and why?

Stuart MacDonald, bush regenerator from Northern Rivers Ecological, and Mark Dunphy from Firewheel Rainforest Nursery will start the discussions.

You can also learn more about weed ID and control techniques by

Renaissance is back, bringing vinyl back to the dancefoor once again with yet another collection of the shires fnest DJs.

For this edition we have put together a diverse stylistic group of some of the areas best known DJs, some of whom will be dusting off their crates to get busy on the wheels of steel at the gig for the frst time in a while. Sure there biceps may not be what they used to be from lugging

visiting our Weed sample table.

There will be morning tea on arrival. REGISTRATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL PLEASE.

This project is assisted by the NSW Government through its Environmental Trust.

This project, Goonengerry Landcare

crates around, you can be sure that just like getting back on a bike for the frst time in years, they will get the job done and bring plenty of goodness to the dancefoor.

DJs on the night include DANU (aka Kelly Lynch), John Bond, Orion, Slinky, Snow Monkey & Wax Addicts. Goodness guaranteed with this lot. If you know you know! Doors open at 4pm and close at midnight.

Drinks & food

both the long-term survival of the area’s unique biodiversity and the resilience of our biodiversity to a changing climate. Our main methodology of assisted natural regeneration will convert bushland dominated by Lantana and Camphor Laurel to diverse Lowland Subtropical Rainforest.

EVENT DETAILS:

Group’s Restoration and Rehabilitation Project 2022, is the most recent in over 10 years of continually funded projects. It continues Goonengerry Landcare’s long-term and successful environmental Restoration and Rehabilitation Program by providing an important extension

to existing restoration on adjacent private properties carried out as part of a variety of other Environment Trustfunded projects and privately funded works. As most of the land in the surrounding LGAs is in private ownership, the role of private landholders in landscape restoration is critical.

available on the night.

See you on the dancefoor!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 21st Sept @4pm

• Where: Coorabell Hall, Coorabell

• Price: From $25

• Tickets: Via the QR code

The proposed restoration sites will extend the wildlife corridor and habitat network in the area, facilitating greater resilience of the adjacent protected area network to the west (Mount Jerusalem, Nightcap and Goonengerry National Parks).

Habitat restoration is critical in ensuring

• When: Saturday 21st Sept @10am

• Where: Federal Halls, Federal • Price: Free

• 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 Sub rosa is a Latin phrase most closely associated with which of the following things? (a) Inequality (b) Absurdity (c) Confidentiality (d) Authority

2 As at 2024, what was the approximate population of Norway?

(a) 5.51 million (b) 10.3 million (c) 15.6 million (d) 20.1 million

3 What are the two main ingredients of traditional fettuccine Alfredo?

(a) Eggs, milk (b) Parmesan cheese, butter (c) Milk, Parmesan cheese (d) Eggs, butter

4 António de Oliveira Salazar was the longest-serving prime minister of which country, serving for over 36 years?

(a) Paraguay (b) Portugal (c) Panama (d) Poland

5 Which country shares a land border with both Guatemala and Nicaragua?

(a) El Salvador (b) Honduras (c) Costa Rica (d) Belize

6 Who won the 2024 Tour de France?

(a) Tadej Pogacar (b) Anthony Turgis (c) Biniam Girmay (d) Bryan Coquard

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 ESTOVER

(a) An excuse for not appearing in court

(b) An ornamental stand of shelves for bric-a-brac etc

(c) A right to necessaries allowed by law

2 FINAGLE

(a) To obtain by guile or swindling

(b) To manage financially

(c) To punish by fine

3 HERESY

(a) A belief contrary to authorised teaching

(b) That which is inherited (c) Plundering

4 OWELTY

(a) In law, equality

(b) An obligation to repay (c) Proprietorship

5 VOUCHSAFE

(a) To guarantee to be true

(b) To maintain solemnly

(c) To condescend

SATURDAY

GRANTCHESTER

ABC TV, 7.30pm

A circus certainly isn’t renowned for being the safest workplace around but in Grantchester’s season nine premiere, it’s not the trapeze or lions that pose danger under the big top – but a vicious crossbow murderer. Police detective Geordie and vicar Will (Robson Green and Tom Brittney, both pictured) investigate after a performer is found dead, and must deduce which of the circus’ eccentric cast of characters is the culprit. At the same time, Will weighs up his future after being o ered a transfer to a new parish in Newcastle. The motorcycle-riding reverend, now married with children, has come a long way in the ve years since moving to Cambridge – is Will ready for a new challenge up north?

FRIDAY, September 20

MONDAY THE BLOCK

NBN, 7.30pm

Viewers tuning into The Block this year could be forgiven for thinking Married at First Sight is undergoing renovations – so prominent are the personality clashes and heated chats. As the build hits the halfway mark, the teams struggle with ideas for their guest ensuites amid sizeable fallout from the kitchen judging. Sydney sisters Maddy and Charlotte (both pictured), who joined the series after Jesse and Paige departed, don’t get a lot of love during the open for inspections but keep their focus on bonding with new builder Dan as they prepare to deliver the rst room they’ve realised entirely on their own – can they steer clear of the drama (aka Kylie) all week long?

TUESDAY

SHAUN MICALLEF’S ORIGIN ODYSSEY

SBS, 7.30pm

History, heritage and humour combine in this series that host Shaun Micallef describes as “the pinnacle of my glittering career”. Having delved into his own family past on Who Do You Think You Are? more than a decade ago, Micallef is joining six comedians on their own journeys of discovery, travelling overseas to trace their roots and better understand parts of their heritage that have been hidden until now. Tonight’s premiere episode nds Micallef and Fisk star Aaron Chen (pictured, with Micallef) in Shanghai, China, where Chen is keen to learn about his father Peter’s backstory and the ces he made before moving to Australia in the late 1980s. Poignant and personal, it sparkles with Micallef’s signature wit.

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

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Australians In Timor-Leste: 25th Anniversary. 11.00 First On The Ground. (PGa, R) 11.30 Planet America. (R) 12.00 News. 12.55 Van Der Valk. (Madv, R) 2.25 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 3.15 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 4.00 Love Your Garden. (PG, R) 4.45 Grand Designs. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.30 Gardening Australia.

8.30 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure: Indonesia. (PGa, R) Part 1 of 4.

9.20 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) Presented by Guy Montgomery.

10.05 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R) Hosted by Shaun Micallef.

10.45 ABC Late News.

11.00 Miniseries: Better. (Malv, R)

12.00 Grand Designs. (R)

12.45 The Larkins. (PG, R)

1.35 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.05 Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.05 Inside The Steam Train Museum. (R) 11.00 Auction. 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 PBS News. 2.05 Sing To Remember: Defying Dementia. (PG) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Tombs Of Egypt: The Ultimate Mission. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

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

7.30 My Grandparents’ War: Keira Knightley. (Ml, R) Part 2 of 4.

8.25 Lost Treasures Of Ancient Laos. (PG) Part 2 of 2.

9.15 Lost Treasures Of Ancient Rome: Secrets Of Rome’s Great Wall. (PGas, R) Takes a look at Hadrian’s Wall. 10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Soldiers. (Malv)

12.30 A Class Apart. (Madlsv, R)

3.50 Make Me A Dealer. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R)

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

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Hailey Dean Mysteries: Dating Is Murder. (2017, PGav, R) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PG)

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs and Peter Colquhoun explore the suburb of Caringbah. Adam Dovile builds a multi-use table.

7.20 Football. AFL. First preliminary nal. Sydney v Port Adelaide. From the SCG. 11.15 Armchair Experts. (M) A panel discusses all things AFL.

12.00 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

12.30 Taken. (Mav, R) Asha’s misplaced trust leaves Bryan vulnerable.

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) Information about pet care.

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

(62) VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Little J And Big Cuz. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 6.50 Kiri And Lou. 6.55 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Strange Chores. 8.00 Good Game Spawn Point. 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.00 Robot Wars. 10.00 Doctor Who. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.15pm WorldWatch. 12.45 Woman. 1.10 Devoured. 2.05 One Star Reviews. 2.30 Over The Black Dot. 3.20 WorldWatch. 5.15 The Toys That Built The World. 6.05 Celebrity Letters And Numbers. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Stacey Dooley Sleeps Over. 9.25 Getting Naked: A Burlesque Story. 10.55 Spent. 12.05am Dark Side Of The Ring. 1.00 King Of The Road. 2.40 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 6.30 I Escaped To The Country. 7.30 The Zoo. 8.00 Million Dollar

4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 I Escaped To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Better Homes. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Rugby League. NRL. First semi- nal. Cronulla Sharks v North Queensland Cowboys.

9.45 NRL Finals Footy PostMatch. A post-match NRL wrap up of the rst semi- nal, with expert analysis and player interviews.

10.30 MOVIE: Magnum Force. (1973, MA15+lv, R) A detective investigates some mysterious murders. Clint Eastwood, Hal Holbrook.

1.00 The Garden Gurus. (R) Expert gardening tips and design ideas.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

9GO! (83) 6am 3 Days In Quiberon. Continued. (2018, PG, French) 7.10 The Crossing. (2020, PG, Norwegian) 9.00 Red Obsession. (2013, PG) 10.30 All The King’s Men. (2006, M) 12.50pm The Way Way Back. (2013, M) 2.45 The Movie Show. 3.20 Dan In Real Life. (2007, PG) 5.10 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 7.30 Lean On Me. (1989, M) 9.30 Sin City. (2005, MA15+) 11.50 Patrick. (2019, MA15+, French) 1.40am Angel Heart. (1987, MA15+) 3.45 Al Pacino: The Reluctant Star. 4.55 Red Obsession. (2013, PG)

6am Children’s Programs. Noon Hart Of Dixie. 2.00 Young Sheldon. 2.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 3.00 Bewitched. 3.30 The Nanny. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Nanny. 7.00 Young Sheldon. 7.30 MOVIE: The Hunger Games. (2012, M) 10.20 MOVIE: Pitch Black. (2000, M) 12.30am Love Island: Unseen Bits. 1.30 Below Deck. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Beyblade Burst: Quad Drive. 4.00 Transformers Bumblebee:

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

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

7.30 Sort Your Life Out. (PGa) Hosted by Stacey Solomon. 8.45 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week.

9.45 The Real CSI: Miami: Halliburton Horror. (Mav) Takes a look at the murder of Jill Halliburton Su, which left her family and her upscale community in shock. 10.45 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather.

11.10 The Project. (R) 12.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

L T Y

E I S

F

E L

Today’s target: 14 words average 20 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

Impatient Rams are keen to share information and exchange ideas with family, friends and work colleagues. But Saturn slows progress and Neptune confuses communication. Plus – on Tuesday night/ Wednesday morning – the Partial Lunar Eclipse Supermoon lights up your self-sabotage zone. So make sure your amusing chatter doesn’t denigrate into gratuitous gossip. Sunday is super for making plans to transform your career or rev up your daily routine.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

An unreliable relative or a questionable acquaintance could lead you astray, so keep your realism radar set on high and avoid getting caught up in dubious schemes. You’re learning some valuable friendship lessons, as Saturn stirs up your peer group zone. And the Partial Lunar Eclipse Supermoon (on Tuesday/Wednesday) shines a bright light on work that still needs to be done. Sunday is a good time to dive deeper into a new hobby or travel experience.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

Taskmaster Saturn and nebulous Neptune could suck the wind out of your sails, especially at home or work. And you may feel disappointed or confused. Don’t despair and give up, Gemini! Get your creative juices flowing in imaginative new directions. Sunday’s Sun/Pluto trine focuses your busy mind and sharpens your cerebral talents. So it’s the perfect time to analyse, study, research and dig deep as you uncover a mystery or solve a perplexing problem.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

With Mars charging through your sign, Crabs are raring to go! The Partial Lunar Eclipse Supermoon, Sun, Mercury, Saturn and Neptune are all activating your travel and education zones, so it’s time to make plans for a future trip or a new course of study. But – with Saturn slowing progress and Neptune confusing issues – you need to be patient and persistent. Then – when the right moment manifests – you’ll be ready, willing and able to move forward.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22) It’s a big week for colourful Cats. On Tuesday night/Wednesday, there’s a Partial Lunar Eclipse Supermoon in your intimacy/secrets/trust zone. And Thursday/Friday’s Sun/Uranus trine is terrific for initiating creative ideas and making financial progress. Then Sunday’s magnetic Sun/Pluto trine boosts personal power and encourages passionate communication and purposeful transformation. So it’s time for self-assured Lions to sparkle and shine!

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

There’s a tendency to become obsessed about an idea (or person) as you focus with Virgo tunnelvision. You’re putting in 100% effort but don’t be disappointed if the results aren’t perfect. You’ll learn more from perceived ‘failures’ than you will from successes. Draw inspiration from film star Sophia Loren (who was born on September 20, 1934): “It’s better to explore and make mistakes than to play it safe. Mistakes are part of the dues one pays for a full life.”

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22) This week is all about bringing more balance and harmony into your busy world. We celebrate the Equinox on Sunday – when the Sun transits into Libra, and day and night are of equal length. With Venus also visiting your sign, it’s time to tap into your passion and creativity. So your motto is from fellow Libran, legendary stage actress Sarah Bernhardt: “Life begets life. Energy creates energy. It is by spending oneself that one becomes rich.”

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

The Sun and Mercury are moving through your peer group zone, while Saturn, Neptune and the Partial Lunar Eclipse Supermoon stimulate your friendship zone. So a work colleague could frustrate you, an authority figure could annoy you, or a friend could give you confusing information. Avoid the temptation to just sulk, stew and simmer. A double dose of Scorpio charm and diplomacy will get you through with your reputation (and sanity) intact!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Expect a domestic drama or a professional challenge as Saturn, Neptune and a Partial Lunar Eclipse Supermoon leave you wondering what on earth is going on! Do your best to be especially diplomatic with a cranky colleague or a recalcitrant relative. Blunt honesty isn’t the best policy –communication will improve with some creative sugar-coating. A pinch of patience (not your usual modus operandi) will help smart Sagittarians sail through.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

From Wednesday to Saturday, you could feel doubtful or disappointed, as Saturn and Neptune dull motivation and confuse communication. Then your Capricorn confidence starts to return, as Sunday’s Sun/Pluto trine boosts your earthy energy and natural enthusiasm. Personal projects, holidays, travel and education are highlighted. Remember it’s Equinox week, so the more you relax and tune into your inner equilibrium, the happier you’ll be!

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) Saturn, Neptune and the Partial Lunar Eclipse Supermoon are stirring up your finance zones. So impulse buys today could lead to cashflow problems tomorrow. Astute Aquarians will avoid making expensive purchases or major money moves, as you’re inclined to view your financial situation through rose-coloured glasses. The Sun/ Uranus trine (on Thursday/Friday) is fabulous for innovative creative ideas, especially involving home and family.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) The Partial Lunar Eclipse Supermoon is in Pisces but, if you daydream the week away, you’ll just end up feeling dazed and confused. Try channelling your creative energy into friendships, joint ventures and group projects. You’re keen to pursue a particular course of action but is a loved one on the same page? Take the time to double-check, otherwise you could find you are veering off in completely different directions. Communicating clearly is the key.

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

The Australian Buddy Holly show is a dynamic portrayal of an authentic rock n’ roll legend, starring Kris Knight as Buddy who recreates the hiccupping vocal and swooping voice of one popular music’s most loved icons performs all of Buddy’s hits including RAVE ON, OH BOY, PEGGY SUE, MAYBE BABY, as well as his slower ballads including EVERYDAY, RAINING IN MY HEART and HEARTBEAT . Kris has performed in JAPAN, MALAYSIA, THAILAND, NEW

CALEDONIA, and most recently in a 6-week tour of NEW ZEALAND, and while in New Zealand featured on TVNZ GOOD MORNING SHOW. He is currently touring South Australian Theatres.

This show is made for dancing whether it is in the aisles or on a dance foor, audience members can’t seem to stay in their seats and Buddy and the band encourage them all the way, with a musical journey that leads them through some forgotten classics and puts a live slant on some

familiar favourites.

All the songs are played live as they were,

and as they should be, like it was in 1959.what you hear is what you get,

straight up ,all the vocal harmonies recreated live, no computer enhancements, no miming to a vocal track, ‘It’s what separates our show from other shows, we are totally in the moment, every sound is ours, so we have to concentrate all night and we have to listen to each other and balance the sound between us , this only comes frompractice, we have to know each other, you can’t do that with a scratch band put together for the gig ‘As one venue manager said ‘the only problem with

this show, is they didn’t want the night to end, and wouldn’t leave’. Dab some brylcreem on your hair, put on your dancing shows , and get ready cause THE Australian Buddy Holly Show is coming town!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Sunday 22nd Sept @1pm

• Where: Club Evans

• Price: $25 +bf

• Tickets: Via the QR code

Dress up as your favourite music legend and come along for a night of trivia, music, dancing and laughs!

Play in teams of 2-6 and test your knowledge and/or performance skills!

Heaps of games and prizes will be on offer as part of this interactive night.

Prizes for best dressed and best team theme, plus more!

60’s - 90’s music, all genres, something for pretty much everyone.

This event is a Cancer Council Fundraiser.

Hosted by comedian Jonny Winter this is sure to be an entertaining night!

Limited numbers - we expect this event to sell

out!

When you purchase your tickets we will be in touch to confrm your team numbers/team names.

If you wish to take part in our Lip Sync Battle and have a specifc song choice, please reach out prior to the event so we can have your song ready to go. Lip Sync Battle can be performed individually or as a group performance. Please reach out if you

have any questions!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 21st Sept @7pm

• Where: Club Iluka

• Price: $15 +bf

• Email: sbr. bentaxlebob@gmail. com

• Tickets: Via the QR code.

You’re invited to Mullumbimby’s favourite rare groove night MUMBO

JUMBO! This time our DJs will be laying down the funkiest soul-jazz and psychedelic go-go vinyl tunes for the dancefoor to make your feet move and hips grind.

Featuring guest DJ Zac Stars and our regular Schnauzer, Lord Fahrenheit and Bamboozle. Brought to you by Frankie God of Hair and the folks behind The Leopard Skin Lounge, Yum Yum and The Stereophonic Sound Library Collective.

Expect the tastiest 60s/70s Funk, Northern Soul, Afrobeat, Latin Boogaloo and other rarities on vinyl from around the world. Be

wowed by our Brazilian Go-Go Dancers, Skopitone Cinema Visuals & Guy’s Psyche-out Light Show. Rock & Roll Cafe will be open serving up the fnest beverages to refresh your palate along with a delicious tapas menu on offer. Limited tickets, always a sell-out! First release $30 for early birds, then $35. Use promo code: MJEarly-Bird-30 to receive $5 off your ticket.

We hope you’re able to join us!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 21st Sept @6pm

• Where: Rock & Roll Café, Mullumbimby

• Price: $35

• Tickets: Via the QR code

• Promo code: MJEarly-Bird-30

Direct from the USA, Michael Jackson – The Legacy Tour Starring William Hall. is the world’s greatest tribute to the world’s greatest entertainer!

William Hall becomes The King of Pop when he hits the stage with his production of Michael Jackson’s The Legacy Tour.

The show, produced and endorsed by previous members of Michael Jackson’s crew, is a visual and musical voyage through the artistic life of the 20th Century’s most respected and idolised entertainer. The choreographed dance moves, full live band and multi-faceted light show promises to repeat the Michael Jackson experience.

Michael Jackson – The Legacy Tour Starring William Hall is a celebration of The King of Pop’s musical legacy in a mammoth tribute featuring all his Greatest Hits.

If you love Michael Jackson, you can’t miss the greatest experience since the King of Pop himself.

When: Saturday 21st Sept @8pm

Nestled along NSW stunning Mid North Coast, Forster is a coastal paradise that blends natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a laid-back lifestyle. Surrounded by pristine beaches, crystal-clear lakes, and vibrant marine life, Forster offers travellers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway or an active adventure, this charming town and its surrounding areas, including Tuncurry, Seal Rocks, Smiths Lake, and Elizabeth Beach, have something for everyone.

Forster is a popular destination for both families and solo travellers. One of the standout features of Forster is its impressive waterways, with Wallis Lake being at the heart of the town. Known for its clear waters, Wallis Lake is a haven for water enthusiasts, offering activities like boating, kayaking, and fshing.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot a pod of playful dolphins in the lake’s calm waters. The town itself is full of laid-back charm, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore. From seafood feasts at local eateries to enjoying a coffee with a view, Forster offers a true coastal town vibe. Main Beach, located right in town, is a patrolled surf beach, ideal for swimming, surfng, or just soaking up the sun.

For those interested in marine life, a visit to the nearby Forster Ocean Baths is a must. These tidal baths offer a safe and family-friendly

spot to enjoy the ocean, perfect for those looking for a calm swimming environment while enjoying views of the open sea.

Just across the bridge from Forster lies Tuncurry, Forster’s sister town. While Forster is known for its lakes and beaches, Tuncurry offers a more laid-back atmosphere with several attractions of its own. Tuncurry Rock Pool is a favourite among families. This calm, enclosed swimming area is perfect for children, and the nearby grassy picnic areas make it a great spot to relax and enjoy a day out.

For nature lovers, Nine Mile Beach, which stretches north from Tuncurry, provides a more secluded stretch of sand ideal for long walks, beach fshing, or simply basking in the untouched beauty of the coast. The area is also a great place for whale watching during the migration season, with plenty of spots along the coastline offering panoramic views.

A short drive south from Forster brings you to the pristine coastal village of Seal Rocks, an unspoiled gem that feels a world away from busy tourist hubs. This peaceful retreat is famed

for its rugged coastline, clear turquoise waters, and untouched beaches.

The main drawcard here is the Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, which offers one of the most spectacular vantage points along the coast.

The lighthouse overlooks the dramatic Seal Rocks, a series of rocky outcrops that are home to a variety of marine life, including seals, as the name suggests.

The beaches in Seal Rocks are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and surfng. For those who prefer to stay dry, a walk along the rocky cliffs offers breathtaking views and the chance to spot migrating whales or dolphins frolicking in the waves.

Just inland from Seal Rocks lies Smiths Lake, a hidden oasis that offers tranquility and relaxation in a serene lakeside setting. Smiths Lake is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature. The calm waters are perfect for paddle boarding, kayaking, and swimming, making it an ideal spot for families with young children.

Surrounded by lush bush and dotted with holiday homes, Smiths Lake is the perfect place for a peaceful getaway.

Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the

lake’s abundant fsh population, while nature lovers can enjoy the area’s birdwatching opportunities, as the lake and its surrounds are home to a variety of bird species.

Situated between Smiths Lake and Booti Booti National Park, Elizabeth Beach is a favourite among surfers and sun-seekers alike.

Known for its reliable surf breaks, this beach offers consistent waves for surfers of all levels. For those less inclined to hit the surf, the beach provides a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun.

The beach is patrolled during peak seasons, making it a safe spot for swimming, while the surrounding parkland offers opportunities for bushwalking and picnicking. A short walk from the beach leads to Shelly Beach, a small, secluded bay that’s perfect for a quiet swim or snorkel.

Forster and its surrounding areas—Tuncurry, Seal Rocks, Smiths Lake, and Elizabeth Beach—offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the lakes and beaches, spotting wildlife, or simply soaking in the laid-back atmosphere, this corner of New South Wales is a must-visit destination. With so much to see and do, Forster and its neighbouring towns provide the ultimate coastal escape for travellers seeking both excitement and serenity.

Photo by Proffesionals Forster

Easy Read Hub to improve access to key government services

The Minns Labor Government is making essential information more accessible for communities across the state with a new ‘Easy Read’ format for a wide range of topics from how to prepare for an emergency to applying for a Photo Card.

The Easy Read format presents information in a straightforward and easy to understand way, with simplifed language, large font sizes and images to support text.

This new format is particularly useful for people with an intellectual disability.

In NSW, there are approximately 1.34 million residents living with disability, and one in 20 who require assistance in their daily lives, according to the Judicial Commission of New South Wales.

The Easy Read format is also useful for people with low literacy levels and those whose frst language is not English.

The newly launched

Easy Read Hub delivers on Labor’s election commitment to make all NSW Government documents relevant to people with an intellectual disability available in Easy Read format by 2025.

So far, 36 topics have been translated into Easy Read including guides on applying for social housing, paying debts, and accessing TAFE courses. Another 10 guides are in progress covering everything from emergency preparedness to topping up your Opal card and staying safe from scams, which will be available in the coming months.

In partnership with the Council for Intellectual Disability and other key stakeholders, an Easy Read Style Guide is also being released to ensure all NSW Government departments can prepare online content using Easy Read.

The Style Guide is part of the NSW Government’s Accessibility and Inclusivity Toolkit which provides the guidance and tools for NSW Government agencies to make their content accessible.

Find out more about Easy Read via the QR code below.

Minister for Customer

Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

“Inclusion is a key priority for me, including making sure every resident can access the information they need online and in person. I am grateful for the key role played by the Council for Intellectual Disability in partnering with my department to develop a guide for the NSW public sector on how to produce more information in Easy Read format.”

“Lived experience provides an incredibly important insight, and we continue to work closely with people with

intellectual disabilities and other stakeholders to ensure that our services are truly inclusive and accessible to all.

“The launch of the Easy Read project is an important step as we continue to make NSW a more inclusive state for everyone.”

Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said:

“Coming into Government, we made a commitment to the disability community to make our important information available in Easy Read.

“Working in partnership with the Council for Intellectual Disability,

we’re delivering on our commitment so everyone can access the information they need.

“The Easy Read format ensures we are clearly communicating important information about essential services to everyone, especially people with disability and those with low literacy levels.”

Fiona McKenzie AM, Vice-Chair of the Council for Intellectual Disability said:

“Easy Read is our ticket to inclusion! It helps us fnd the government services we need and how to live a full life in the community. Thanks to the Government for its commitment to Easy Read and listening to us about what makes good Easy Read.”

New Obesity Treatment Available in Australia: Mounjaro® (Tirzepatide)

prediabetes, or sleep apnoea.

Australians living with obesity or overweight and associated health conditions now have access to a new treatment option, as the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has expanded the use of Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) beyond its initial approval for type 2 diabetes.

The medication is now approved for chronic weight management, including weight loss and maintenance, for adults with:

• A body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater (obesity), or

• A BMI of 27 to 30 kg/m² (overweight) with at least one related health issue, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease,

Mounjaro is intended to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

Healthcare professionals have welcomed this expansion, citing the urgent need to address Australia’s growing obesity crisis. Associate Professor Samantha Hocking from the Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, stated, “Obesity is a serious, progressive disease that requires long-term management, just like any other chronic illness.”

She emphasized that medication for weight management can signifcantly improve long-term health outcomes, shifting the focus away from

cosmetic motivations. Currently, one-third of Australian adults are living with obesity (BMI

achieving long-term healthy weight goals, underscoring the need for evidence-based medical

≥ 30), and approximately two-thirds fall within the overweight (BMI ≥ 25) or obesity categories. Due to stigma and outdated views on weight management, many individuals are reluctant to seek medical advice and, as a result, do not receive appropriate care. Prof. Hocking highlighted that “eating less and moving more” is often insuffcient for many people in

interventions like Mounjaro.

The Mounjaro® medication works by mimicking two hormones, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucosedependent insulinotropic polypeptide), which help promote fullness and regulate blood sugar levels. Although available only through private prescription and not yet listed on

the Pharmaceutical Benefts Scheme (PBS), Mounjaro offers a promising new approach for chronic weight management.

A modest 5% reduction in body weight can signifcantly reduce the risk of obesity-related complications, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Eli Lilly Australia, the manufacturer of Mounjaro, is advocating for broader access to the medication through the PBS.

Tori Brown, General Manager of Eli Lilly Australia, emphasized the importance of Mounjaro as a tool in tackling the obesity epidemic, which poses serious health risks, including cardiovascular disease and obstructive sleep apnoea. She also

highlighted the potential economic benefts of such treatments, which may enhance productivity and community health.

Lilly is also scaling up global production of Mounjaro and other incretin-based medicines to meet increasing demand, with a 150% increase in global production expected by the second half of 2024. Brown reaffrmed Lilly’s commitment to ensuring a stable supply of Mounjaro for Australian patients.

For more information on Mounjaro, visit the QR code below.

Example - Image of an older woman getting a vaccination and the accompanying text.

IAN ROGERS

Role of pharmacists to expand to ear infections; nausea; acid refux; acne; muscle and joint pain

Thousands of people across NSW will be able to access treatment for ear infections, wound management, nausea, gastro, acne, muscle and joint pain at their local pharmacy, boosting access to fast, convenient heathcare across NSW.

Health Minister Ryan Park announced at the Pharmacy Guild’s Pharmacy Connect Conference last night in Sydney that work is underway to expand pharmacists’ scope of practice including the following conditions:

• Acute otitis media (middle ear infection)

• Acute otitis externa (outer ear infection)

• Acute minor wound management

• Acute nausea and vomiting

• Gastro-oesophageal refux and gastrooesophageal refux disease (GORD)

• Mild to moderate acne

• Mild, acute musculoskeletal pain

Subject to appropriate training and ongoing work in implementation work, the expanded service delivery could commence as soon as 2026.

NSW Health is consulting with universities on the development of suitable training as well as the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia on request supports for pharmacists including:

• Condition specifc training; and

• Upskilling in clinical assessment, diagnosis, management and clinical

documentation.

NSW Health has also agreed to authorise individual pharmacists who have successful completed the Queensland pilot training to deliver selected services in NSW from January 2025 onwards.

More than 490 pharmacies across the state have participated in the oral contraceptive pill trial since it began, delivering more than 1,800 consultations to women in NSW.

This follows the successful completion of the frst phase of the trial in May 2024, which saw more than 3,300 NSW pharmacists provide more than 18,000 consultations to women aged 18 to 65 with symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI). The UTI service transitioned to usual pharmacy care from 1 June 2024.

The third and fnal phase of the trial allowing pharmacists to manage common minor skin conditions is underway and will be running until early 2025.

A detailed evaluation of all three phases of the NSW Pharmacy Trial will be provided to NSW Health in 2025 and will inform future expansion of services.

Expanding the scope of practice of pharmacists forms part of the NSW Government’s broader efforts to alleviate pressure on GPs.

According to the Federal Department of Health & Aged Care,

there were fewer GPs in NSW in 2023 than there were in 2019.

The GP shortage is having a signifcant impact on the state’s emergency departments.

While the Minister for Health continues to work with the Commonwealth on the challenges facing primary care, for its part, the NSW Government just this week announced the commencement of its Bulk Billing Support initiative.

It also follows the NSW Government’s half a billion dollar emergency department relief package announced in the state budget in June, which seeks to build more pathways to care outside the hospital, as well as improving patient fow within our hospitals.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“We know that it is becoming more diffcult to access a GP than ever before, with people often waiting days or even weeks before they can fnd an appointment.

“By empowering pharmacists to undertake consultations on more conditions, we can relieve the pressure on GPs and end the wait times.

“People should be able to access treatment as and when they need it, and the expansion of this important initiative will improve access to care.”

Quotes Attributable to Pharmacy Guild of Australia NSW Branch President David Heffernan:

“Whether it’s providing ten million vaccinations during COVID or treating over 18,000 uncomplicated UTIs over the past year, pharmacists have shown that they are able to offer more of the everyday healthcare patients need.

“These changes will mean that patients aren’t forced to present to hospital for a simple ear infection just because their GP can’t see them.

“It’ll mean easier access to everyday healthcare for everyone in New South Wales.”

Quotes attributable to Pharmaceutical Society of NSW President Luke Kelly:

“The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia thanks Minister Park and the NSW Government for the confdence they have shown in pharmacists following the success of the NSW Pharmacy Trial, and for leveraging pharmacists’ expertise to expand access to health care.”

“NSW residents will beneft from more timely access to care for a broader range of conditions at their community pharmacy.”

“PSA is committed to workforce preparation, including training, education, practice support and upskilling of pharmacists to undertake and deliver these services.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart MP: “Families from across the Heathcote electorate have been telling me how diffcult access to General Practitioners has become in recent years.

“We know that the GP shortage is hurting families in New South Wales and that the NSW Government needs to do what it can to make access to everyday healthcare easier.

“That’s why I’m so proud to be part of a Government that is taking action and empowering our highly skilled pharmacist workforce to play a larger role in healthcare.”

Dementia Australia Launches Diversity Small Grant Program for Community Awareness

IAN ROGERS

Dementia Australia has announced the launch of its new Diversity Small Grant program, aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of dementia within Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.

The program offers grants of up to $30,000 for activities that promote dementia awareness in these communities. Applications are now open and will remain so until 11 October. Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and CALD organisations are encouraged to apply for funding to develop culturally appropriate activities that help educate their communities about dementia.

Dementia rates among First Nations people are approximately 3-5 times higher than the general population,

while 28% of people living with dementia in Australia were born in a non-English speaking country.

Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan highlighted the importance of this program in empowering communities to raise awareness in ways that best suit their needs. “We want everyone, regardless of background, to know that Dementia Australia is here to support them,” she said.

In addition to funding, successful applicants will receive two professional dementia information sessions for their staff or committee members, and continued support from Dementia Australia. For more information and to apply, visit the QR code below.

BOWEN THERAPY

GENTLE, SAFE & VERY EFFECTIVE PAIN RELIEF

all your aches, pains, strains and migraines THINK

Fixed-Rate Home Loans: A Short-Term Gain, Long-Term Pain?

ROBERT HEYWARD

The recent round of fxed-rate home loan cuts from major Australian banks may seem like an attractive option for prospective homeowners, but experts caution that these offers may not be the long-term solution many hope for. As the market continues to grapple with high infation, rising interest rates, and sluggish wage growth, affordability in major cities remains a signifcant challenge.

While concerns about further rate hikes eased after the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) held rates steady at 4.35% earlier this month, banks such as Westpac, National Australia Bank, Commonwealth Bank, Macquarie, and HSBC have all slashed fxedrate mortgage offers.

IAN ROGERS

Australia’s housing market surged by $225.9 billion in the June quarter, pushing the total value to an unprecedented $10.9 trillion. New fgures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), released on Tuesday, reveal that the national average home price increased by $15,600 to $973,300 during the three months to June. However, while most states enjoyed substantial windfalls, one state saw a decline.

The continuous rise in home prices is deepening

This has prompted renewed interest, though demand for fxed rates remains low. According to Mortgage Choice, only 3% of home loan submissions in August had a fxed component, with variable rate loans continuing to dominate at 97%.

Fixed-rate home loans, popular with frst-home buyers, allow borrowers to lock in a repayment rate for one to fve years, offering fnancial stability. In a competitive market, banks are eager to attract customers with fxed-rate products, hoping to secure longterm borrowers. This uptick in competition is a positive sign for homebuyers and those refnancing.

Luke Camilleri, a Mortgage Choice broker based in Sydney, sees the cuts as an opportunity to reintroduce fxed-

rate options to clients.

“For the past two years, fxed rates have rarely been part of the conversation,” he says. However, he also warns that it may be premature to embrace fxed rates

Clouds Long-Term Prospects

Although the resurgence of fxed-rate products is benefcial for short-term planning, the long-term outlook remains uncertain.

wholeheartedly. With the RBA yet to cut rates, it’s unclear how the market will evolve over the next 6 to 12 months.

Economic Uncertainty

Anne Flaherty, a senior economist at PropTrack, points out that while lower fxed rates from banks may signal expectations of future

RBA cuts, there is no guarantee. As such, locking in a longer-term fxed rate now may carry fnancial risk if variable rates fall in the future.

Mr. Camilleri echoes this sentiment, advising clients to limit fxedrate terms to two years at most. “It’s not ideal to commit to a longterm fxed rate right now,” he says, urging homebuyers to consider the possibility that their variable rate could match or drop below their fxed rate, avoiding the long-term commitment to potentially higher payments.

Fixed Rates: Comfort Over Cost?

Despite the risks, some borrowers are still drawn to fxed-rate options for the certainty of fxed repayments, regardless of where the market heads. “People choose fxed rates not necessarily to

Australian Home Values Hit Record $10.9 Trillion, with Every State Except One Seeing Gains

the affordability crisis for prospective buyers, with home values growing faster than many can save from their paychecks. “The cost of housing continues to rise even as interest rates remain at a 12-year high,” said Cameron Kusher, Director of Economic Research at PropTrack, in an interview with realestate. com.au. “This is making homeownership even more diffcult to achieve for many.”

For current homeowners, however, the climbing property values are seen as a positive development.

“Those who already own

properties are generally pleased to see their equity grow,” Kusher noted. Nonetheless, the ABS data points to a slowdown in the rate of price growth across the country, aligning with broader trends tracked by the PropTrack Home Price Index.

Some of Australia’s smaller states witnessed the most dramatic price increases. In Western Australia, the average home price jumped by a staggering $47,700 to $816,000 in just three months—equivalent to an increase of over $500 per day. Kusher attributed this to strong demand coupled with

a limited supply of available homes.

“There’s a desperation among buyers, driven by fear of missing out, as they worry that waiting longer could mean paying signifcantly more,” he explained.

South Australia and Queensland also saw robust growth, with home values rising by $32,400 to $800,400 and $30,500 to $885,400, respectively.

Meanwhile, New South Wales saw more modest gains, with the average home price increasing by $11,500 to $1.222 million. Victoria, however, was the only state where home prices

fell, with the average price dropping by $6,600 to $900,300 during the same period. Kusher explained that Victoria’s market has been fooded with properties, reducing the urgency for buyers.

“Unlike in WA, buyers in Melbourne don’t feel the same level of pressure. With ample stock available, they are willing to wait, hoping for better deals,” he said.

Other regions saw moderate growth in home values. In the ACT, prices rose by $7,600 to $953,900, while Tasmania saw a smaller increase of $3,600 to $672,600. The Northern Territory remained the

‘win’ on the interest rate, but for the security,” says Camilleri. While long-term fxed rates remain a gamble, short-term fxed rates could offer a temporary win for those looking to hedge their bets. Flaherty notes that many banks are currently offering one-year fxed rates lower than variable rates, providing homeowners with short-term savings while maintaining fexibility for the future. Ultimately, while fxed-rate home loans may offer immediate relief, the broader market landscape suggests they may not be the best longterm strategy. First-home buyers and refnancers should remain cautious, weighing their options carefully before locking in a rate in this unpredictable economic climate.

most affordable, with a $7,600 increase bringing the average price to $538,000.

Looking ahead, Kusher expects home values to continue rising into the September quarter, though at a more gradual pace. “The rate of growth is slowing as more stock comes onto the market, but we anticipate further increases, albeit at a more moderate rate,” he said.

With the housing market showing no signs of cooling off, the ongoing affordability challenge remains a major concern for those looking to break into the property market.

Relax, have a break and enjoy BRISBANE

Enjoy good times in the CBD

Bookings still available for December & January

Located in the heart of the Brisbane City CBD just steps from the Queen Street Mall shopping precinct, casino and cultural centre, travellers enjoy well-appointed one-bedroom apartment accommodation with free private parking, exceptional dining and amenities that include a recreation deck with heated pool, sauna and gymnasium

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

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

- WIFI

- your own Parking for 1 car

- Balcony with seating

- Amenity note: Communal outdoor pool, sauna, bbq area and gym

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

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Dag day afternoon.

There’s an old expression that goes something like “the standard of behaviour we walk past is the standard we accept”, and never has this been more relevant or pertinent than with litter. Judging by the pattern and volume of public litter it looks like we walk past pretty much everything.

This led to the realisation that some other age-old expressions are perhaps backto-front, namely “common as mud” and “dumb as dog

Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley

Late Disgorged Blanc de Blanc 2015, $70. ‘Methode traditionelle’ as one would expect from something disgorged later than usual, this is a fne bubbly with a fne bead riding the crest of a wave of blancs de blancs with a little bit of age to boost it. Crisp and

poo”. They’d be much more apt the other way around in our neighbourhood, despite our council generously providing free doggy bags for the purpose.

So, shouldn’t those expressions be “common as dog poo” and “dumb as dog owners”?

You can just see the dog owners furtively glancing in both directions to see if anyone is watching (while trying to look like they’re not), hoping they’ll get away

bright and ideal for a sunset on a slow afternoon after gardening. 9.5/10.

Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley Estate Grown Chardonnay 2022, $40. Serious stuff for the second quarter and quite old school, like from the days of super-tight footy shorts. Oaky and enough depth to

with it and not have to ‘do the right thing’, a 40-year-old slogan needed more today than then.

To be fair, it can be tricky, like the time Gruntley crapped on Mrs Browne’s little things with thorns on them. The holes in the bag allowed the revolting smell to roam freely, which even Gruntley didn’t enjoy.

But enough about dog poo, the latest litter de jour is actually somewhat accidental, hard to control

carry you through half time. 9.4/10.

Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley HVD Vineyard Semillon, 2017, $45. You hardly notice the age on this, picked during the preseason way back just after the Bulldogs won their frst fag in a million years. A suitable wine with which to

and, paradoxically, even harder to fnd – is it still litter if you can’t see it? Best ask a sea-turtle about that, they likely didn’t see it coming either.

Yes, there’s a new kid on the block taking over from the explosion of abandoned cable ties on worksites and anywhere with temporary fencing… drumroll please…whippersnipper dags - that last little bit of cord that fings off into the environment when your

toast The Bont’. 9.5/10. Witches Falls Granite Belt ‘Prophecy’ Syrah 2022, $88. Good, solid, bigscented wine with which to have a tarot card reading or your palms read which is a distinct possibility if you spill it. 9.5/10.

Witches Falls Riverland Old Vine Reisling 2023,

spool has spun out and which no-one ever picks up, except old codgers on their morning dog walks.

Insidious and almost invisible, mysterious and subtle, they’re hard to spot and possibly even Adam Bandt and The Hyphen have left one here or there unknowingly, as they fy off without warning - bit like Ms L. sometimes, specially when I’m banging on about litter like an old bloke.

And fair enough too, old

codgers can be so annoying when they go on and on about the failings of the younger generation, like littering.

However, Ms L. seems to change her tune when the sun is setting and dinner is in the offng when she doesn’t mind hassling an old bloke for a glass of wine.

But here’s a hint, gardeners, if your whippersnipper suddenly stops snipping, that dag will be hiding somewhere.

$56. It seems somewhat incongruous having a young wine from 40yo old vines almost as much as it is having an old vine from the Riverland. There’s been vines there for donkeys of course but no-one has called them that as one might from, say, the Barossa or Eden Valleys, and really, 40 years is only 1984. Spooky. 9.3/10.

Witches Falls Granite Belt ‘Prophecy’ Merlot 2022, $88. I had a prophecy that I would drink three glasses of this while watching footy and lo and behold it came true, although that last glass was rather big. 9.4/10.

Max Crus

BREAKFAST EGG AND HAM MUFFINS

5m prep 8m cook

4 servings

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

5 INGREDIENTS

• oil spray

• 4 eggs

From simple meals to show-stopping feasts, there’s something for everyone.

• 4 (English) muffns, halved and toasted

• 120g shaved leg ham

FRENCH STRAWBERRY DESSERT CAKE

• 4 slices tasty cheese

SLOW COOKED TUSCAN BREAD SOUP

INGREDIENTS

• 125g butter, at room temperature

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 270g (1 1/4 cups) caster sugar

• 2 eggs

• 1/4 tsp salt

2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 tsp fennel seeds

• Pinch of dried chilli fakes

• 400g can crushed tomatoes

• 400g can Cannellini Beans, drained, rinsed

• 1L (4 cups) Massel vegetable liquid stock

• Bouquet garni (4 fresh or dried bay leaves, 4 lightly toasted, torn into chunks

• 40g (1/2cup) fnely grated parmesan, (or vegetarian hard cheese) plus extra shaved, to serve

BEST-EVER AUSSIE SAUSAGE ROLLS

• 1 lemon, juiced, zested

• Finely chopped continental parsley, to serve

2 METHOD STEPS

Step 1

INGREDIENTS

• 400g sausage mince

• 225g (1 1/2 cups) self-raising four, plus 1 tbsp extra

• 170g (2/3 cup) sour cream

• 375g fresh strawberries, hulled

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 180C/160C fan forced. Grease and line base and side of a 23cm (base measurement) round springform pan with baking paper.

Set a 5L slow cooker to Browning. Heat oil. Cook onion, carrot and celery for 5 minutes or until tender. Add garlic, fennel and chilli. Cook for 1 minute. Add tomato, beans, stock and bouquet garni. Season. Change cooker setting to High. Cover. Cook for 3-4 hours or until vegetables are almost tender.

20m prep 35m cook makes 18

• 300g beef mince

• 1 brown onion, coarsely grated

• 1 carrot, peeled, coarsely grated

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 35g (1/2 cup) fresh breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh continental parsley

• 2 eggs

• 3 sheets frozen puff pastry, just thawed

• 1 tsp sea salt fakes

• Kewpie mayonnaise, to serve

• Barbecue sauce, to serve

• Fresh coriander sprigs, to serve

METHOD

Step 2 Stir in cavalo nero, bread and parmesan. Cover and cook on High for 30 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly. Stir in lemon juice, to taste. Serve topped with parsley, lemon zest and extra parmesan.

Season. Mix until well combined (the mixture will be sticky).

2. Preheat oven to 200C/180C fan forced. Line 2 baking trays with baking paper. Lightly whisk the remaining egg in a bowl.

3. Cut the pastry sheets in half. Place one-sixth of the mince mixture along centre of each piece of pastry. Brush 1 long edge with egg. Fold pastry over to enclose the flling, pressing to seal. Cut each roll into thirds. Place the sausage rolls, seam side down, on the prepared trays. Brush the pastry with egg. Use a small sharp knife to pierce the tops a few times to allow steam to escape. Sprinkle with sea salt. Bake for 35 minutes or until cooked and golden.

2. Use electric beaters to beat the butter, vanilla and 1 cup sugar in a large bowl until pale and creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add salt and half the four and beat until just combined. Add half the sour cream and beat until just combined. Repeat with remaining four and sour cream.

3. Halve 125g of the strawberries and set aside. Coarsely chop remaining strawberries. Toss chopped strawberries with extra four to coat. Fold into the cake mixture until just combined. Spoon the mixture into prepared pan and smooth the surface.

“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.” - Auguste Escoffer

1. Combine the sausage and beef mince, onion, carr ot, garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley and 1 egg in a bowl.

4. Drizzle the sausage rolls with mayonnaise and then barbecue sauce. Scatter with coriander sprigs to serve.

4. Sprinkle the top with 1 ½ tablespoons of the remaining sugar. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a thin crust has formed on the top. Arrange halved strawberries, cut-side down, on the top of the cake, pressing slightly into the crust. Sprinkle with remaining sugar. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Serve cake warm or at room temperature.

How to Arrange Plants in Your Home for Maximum Impact

In recent years, the trend of incorporating plants into interior design has surged in popularity, transforming ordinary homes into vibrant, living spaces. From minimalistic succulents to towering indoor trees, plants can add character, warmth, and a breath of fresh air to any room. But while bringing plants into the home is relatively simple, arranging them in a way that enhances the aesthetic appeal of your space requires thoughtful planning.

Understand Your Space

Before you buy any plants, take a good look around your home.

Consider the dimensions of each room, the amount of natural light they receive, and the design style you want to achieve. Some plants thrive in bright, direct sunlight, while others prefer the diffused light of a north-facing window. Knowing your home’s lighting conditions will ensure your plants not only survive but fourish.

For instance, if you have a room with large windows that get plenty of sunlight, cacti and succulents are ideal choices. These drought-resistant plants love bright light and don’t require frequent watering, making them easy to care for. On the other hand, low-light areas, like hallways or bathrooms, might beneft from low-maintenance plants like the snake plant or ZZ plant, which can thrive in indirect light.

Choose Plants of

Different Heights and Shapes

When arranging plants, diversity in height, shape, and texture is key to creating a visually appealing layout. Mix tall plants with shorter ones to add depth and dimension to your space. For example, a large fddle leaf fg in a corner paired with a smaller peace lily on a nearby table creates contrast and balance. The varying heights draw the eye upward, adding layers of interest to the room. To achieve this, you can invest in plant stands or shelves to elevate smaller plants to different heights, giving the illusion of a lush, multi-dimensional display. Grouping plants of varying shapes, such as broad-leaved plants like monstera with spikier varieties like dracaena, also adds texture and variety to your display.

Create Focal Points

Just as you would arrange artwork or furniture to create focal points in a room,

plants can also serve as natural focal points. For instance, a statement plant, such as the bird of paradise or rubber tree, placed in a prominent location like the living room can become a striking feature. Placing larger plants in corners or near windows creates a dramatic visual effect and draws attention to areas of the room that might otherwise be overlooked. By carefully positioning your plants, you can guide the viewer’s gaze through the room, creating a sense of fow. Consider the Rule of Three

One tried-and-true design principle is the rule of three, which states that objects arranged in odd numbers are more appealing to the eye. The same concept applies to arranging plants. Grouping plants in threes—whether on a windowsill, shelf, or table—creates a balanced and aesthetically pleasing arrangement. When using this method, try to combine plants of varying sizes, textures, and colours for maximum impact. For example, pair a trailing plant like pothos with a bushy fern and a compact succulent. This approach creates a dynamic display where each plant complements the other.

Embrace Vertical Space

If you live in a smaller space or want to maximize your plant collection without cluttering your foors, embracing vertical space is the way to

go. Hanging planters, wall-mounted pots, and vertical plant shelves allow you to incorporate more greenery without sacrifcing valuable foor space.

Consider installing a plant wall or hanging several plants at different heights to create a cascading effect. Plants like philodendrons or string of pearls are perfect for hanging baskets due to their natural trailing

warm, rustic feel, while ceramic pots can add a sleek, modern touch. You might opt for a uniform colour palette to create a more cohesive look, or you could mix things up with a variety of materials and fnishes to create an eclectic, curated feel. Woven baskets, metallic planters, and minimalist concrete pots can all work together to bring character and variety to your space.

grouping plants with similar watering and light requirements together. This makes it easier to care for your plants and ensures you won’t accidentally overwater or neglect any of them.

Arranging plants in your home can transform your space into a serene, visually appealing oasis. By understanding your environment, mixing plant sizes, and using

tendencies. This not only adds greenery but also creates a sense of depth and height in a room, making your space feel larger.

Mix Pot Styles and Textures

Your choice of pots plays an essential role in how your plants contribute to your interior design. Just as you mix and match plants of different sizes and shapes, mixing pot styles and textures adds another layer of interest to your display. Terracotta pots have a

Be Mindful of Plant Care

Lastly, while aesthetics are important, it’s crucial to consider the practicalities of plant care. Ensure your plants are placed in areas where they will thrive based on their light and water needs. Regularly rotate your plants to ensure they receive even sunlight, and make sure they’re not placed too close to heat sources like radiators or air conditioners, which can dry them out.

Additionally, consider

design principles like the rule of three and vertical space, you can create a dynamic, lively atmosphere that brings the beauty of nature indoors. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist look or a lush jungle vibe, the key is to experiment and fnd an arrangement that suits your style while keeping your plants healthy and happy.

So, gather your greenery, get creative, and let your plants breathe new life into your home.

RURAL NEWS

Northern Rivers

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX CASINO 11/09/2024

Yard numbers decreased by 300, bringing the total to 1,100 head, which included a good mix of young cattle and fewer cows. The young cattle offering was dominated by light, plain-conditioned weaners, and there was a noticeable reduction in the number of well-bred cattle. Restocker weaner prices were softer, dropping by 20c to 30c due to the lower quality of cattle available. Weaner steers fetched between 240c and 396c/kg, while weaner heifers ranged from 180c to 336c/kg. Yearling steers were sold at a top price of 316c/kg.

The export cattle yarding was mostly made up of cows, with some pens of grown steers and heifers.

GRAFTON

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DONOVAN LIVESTOCK & PROPERTY PH: 02 6643 4411

MARKET REPORT – TUESDAY 10TH

SEPTEMBER 2024

A total of 427 head of cattle were yarded, with 280 export

WARWICK

WARWICK & DISTRICT LIVESTOCK MARKETS

– WEEK ENDING 13/09/2024

Numbers were up across both major livestock markets this week, with 1,400 head of cattle and 1,778 head of sheep and lambs presented. The cattle sale went smoothly, with no rain until the sale concluded, while areas that received rainfall saw a change in attendance and bidding patterns at the sheep and lamb sale. Cattle prices held frm, though slightly cheaper in some cases due to residual winter effects. However, fresh trade and feeder cattle fared well, and cows remained steady. In the lamb market, larger consignments were evident as vendors fnished their winter and late-blooming lambs, with new season lambs also starting to enter the market.

The pork market continues to experience limited supply, while poultry sales saw a variety of offerings.

Cattle Market Results:

• Bulls averaged 287.6c/kg, topping at 336.2c/kg, with returns ranging from $1,225.47 to $3,516.04.

• Cows averaged 257.1c/kg, peaking at 320.2c/kg, fetching $1,308.07 to $2,385.49.

• Feeder Heifers averaged 282.1c/kg, topping at 378.2c/kg, bringing in $960.44 to $2,020.32.

• Feeder Steers averaged 357c/kg, peaking at 394.2c/ kg, fetching $1,275.66 to $1,797.73.

• Heifers averaged 292.2c/kg, topping at 336.2c/kg, with returns of $1,294.46 to $2,274.04.

• Manufacturing Steers topped at 240.2c/kg, returning $756.63.

• Steers averaged 331.6c/kg, peaking at 356.2c/kg, bringing in $1,702.49 to $2,287.80.

Grown steers gained 10c, selling between 319c and 344c/kg, while grown heifers peaked at 320c/ kg. The cow market saw a 10c improvement, with medium-weight cows in the 2 and 3 score categories

cattle and 147 young cattle.

This week saw a fair yarding, though overall quality was considered plain, with only a few prime pens available in each category.

• Export cattle sold to stronger trends, with Bullocks reaching up to 316c/kg, while heavy cows made up to

• Vealer Heifers averaged 274.3c/kg, peaking at 334.2c/ kg, with returns of $635.18 to $1,169.70.

• Vealer Steers averaged 345.5c/kg, topping at 401.2c/ kg, fetching $781.02 to $1,256.92.

• Yearling Heifers averaged 290c/kg, peaking at 392.2c/kg, bringing in $843.97 to $1,966.64.

• Yearling Steers averaged 339.39c/kg, with the highest price at 396.2c/kg, returning $939.77 to $1,483.11.

The overall average for the 1,400 head of cattle was $1,054.21.

Sheep and Lamb Market Results:

• Lambs topped at $240, averaging $168.57 (up $19).

• Hoggets peaked at $160, averaging $124.40 (up $22).

• Ewes topped at $120, averaging $84.98 (up $13).

• Wethers peaked at $100, averaging $83.43 (up $15).

• Rams topped at $126, averaging $103.85 (down $5).

• Lamb Rams peaked at $160, averaging $116.20 (down $5).

The overall average for the 1,778 head of sheep and lambs was $148.33, up $23 per head from last week. Pork and Poultry Market:

• Pork prices ranged from $140 to $250, with Sows selling for $195 to $440, and Stores ranging from $44 to $216.

• Guinea Fowl sold for $27.50, Drakes for $7.50, Ganders for $30, Roosters for $22.50, Hens for $25, Pullets for $40. Groups of chicks sold for $75, while hen and chick pairs also sold for $75.

The total yarding averaged $148.33, an increase of $23 per head compared to the previous week.

Vendor Results:

• Rebecca Perrin: Dohne-cross ewes sold to Eversons for $93 and $83. Hoggets at 59.7kg fetched $120 from Taylor Meats, with 52.2kg hoggets sold for $104 to Shelley F/T. Rams went to restockers for $76.

selling from 240c to 276c/kg, and 4 score cows achieving 288c to 315c/kg. Heavy bulls reached a maximum of 292c/kg. This report was compiled by Doug Robson.

302c/kg.

• Young cattle were mostly out of specifcation or of poor quality, with better-quality types holding frm prices. Upcoming Sales:

Fat Cattle Sale: 8AM, Tuesday 24th September 2024

Store Cattle Sale: 9AM, Thursday 3rd October 2024

• Woodland Farming Co: Dorper-cross lambs at 60kg sold to Take It Easy Meats for $212, with 45kg lambs reaching $150 to GR Prime. Sucker lambs at 40kg fetched $142 from Eversons and Tony’s Supa Meats. Hoggets at 58kg sold for $160 to Take It Easy Meats.

• Warren & Wendy Schelbach: Dorper lambs sold to GR Prime for $168.

• Jon & Regina Henry: Dorper-cross lambs at 47.1kg sold for $175 to GR Prime.

• Melrose: Crossbred lambs off ewes at 45kg and 40kg sold to GR Prime for $140, while 50kg lambs went to Eversons for $194. A 60kg ram lamb sold for $160 to restockers, and 51.5kg ram lambs fetched $140 to Take It Easy Meats. Hoggets at 65kg sold for $140 to Take It Easy Meats.

• Armstrong Family: Dorper lambs at 45.7kg sold for $173 to Eversons and $171 to Jock Young Meats. Lighter lambs at 42kg fetched $131 from Hurley & Weiss. Hoggets at 53.3kg sold to Jock Young Meats for $130.

• David Cowley: Dorper-cross sucker lambs at 32.5kg sold to GR Prime for $85, with lighter lambs at 22.5kg selling for $64.

• Tim & Mary Turvey: Dorper-cross lambs at 48.1kg sold to Take It Easy Meats for $178. Ewes sold to restockers for $105, and ewes sold to McIntyre Meats for $90, $86, and $50.

• Rory & Kathy Frost: Dorper lambs at 45.5kg sold for $173 to GR Prime, with lighter lambs at 43.1kg reaching $174 for Luck Meats. Ewes sold to Eversons for $81.

• Jason Skinner: Crossbred lambs at 49kg sold for $178 to Take It Easy Meats.

• Owen McAuley: Dorset-cross lambs at 51kg sold to Take It Easy Meats for $186, with 41.5kg lambs selling for $115 to GR Prime. Merino and Dorper wethers sold for $65 to McIntyre Meats.

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

NSW Dairy Producer Awarded Prestigious RAS Foundation-Backed Nuffeld Australia Farming Scholarship

IAN ROGERS

The RAS Foundation is reaffrming its commitment to agricultural innovation and sustainability by sponsoring Campbell Chesworth, a leader in the dairy industry, as the recipient of the 2025 Nuffeld Farming Scholarship.

Nuffeld Farming Scholarships, awarded by Nuffeld Australia, aim to equip emerging agricultural leaders with the tools and opportunities to advance their practical farming knowledge and management skills, while driving positive change within their businesses and the broader industry.

Chesworth, a deserving recipient, has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable practices within his

family’s vertically integrated dairy enterprise, Chesworth Dairy Partnership and The Little Big Dairy Company. This enterprise manages the entire supply chain, from the paddock to the consumer.

Chesworth advocates for incorporating circular

economy principles into core farming operations as a strategy to meet growing consumer and regulatory demands impacting Australia’s livestock sectors.

“To maintain its social license, the Australian dairy industry must innovate with on-farm strategies

that meet welfare and sustainability expectations,”

Chesworth stated.

“The dairy sector has a longstanding reputation for leading industry transformation and adopting cutting-edge technologies. Globally, the industry has recently begun embracing

initiatives to reduce, reuse, and recycle farm inputs, leading to cost reductions and providing both fnancial and environmental benefts.

“My research aims to explore how circular economy innovations can enhance the resilience, proftability, and sustainability of

the Australian dairy industry.”

As a 2025 Nuffeld Scholar, Chesworth will receive $40,000 to support his research, which will take him to Spain, the Netherlands, Germany, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Canada, and the United States. His study will focus on water conservation and sustainability, drought resilience, and renewable energy sources, including biogas.

Chesworth plans to share his fndings with industry stakeholders upon his return and integrate new ideas and methods into his family’s business, ensuring its success for future generations.

For more information about the RAS Foundation, please visit their website.

Climate Change Report Highlights Challenges for Agriculture in Achieving Net Zero

IAN ROGERS

The Climate Change Authority’s Sector Pathways (CCASP) report, released today, brings renewed focus on the challenges facing Australia’s agriculture sector in its transition to net zero.

David Jochinke, President of the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF), welcomed the report, acknowledging that it provides a balanced and detailed examination of the sector’s diffculties. However, he reiterated a key concern: under current conditions, achieving net zero emissions by 2050 is not feasible for Australian agriculture.

“The report’s multiscenario approach, including analyses from the CSIRO, clearly shows that none of the scenarios result in net zero for agriculture by 2050,” Jochinke said.

The most ambitious scenario, which suggests reallocating 5 million hectares of land for vegetative offsets, was of particular concern.

Jochinke warned that such a large-scale land reallocation would have a detrimental impact on food and fbre production, aligning with the report’s fndings that competition for land is likely to intensify due to climate change. Safeguarding food security remains a priority.

Technological

Advancements Critical for Decarbonisation

The report emphasizes the need for continued technological innovation to help reduce emissions in the agriculture sector.

Key areas of innovation include:

• Feed supplements

• Slow-release or nitrifcation-inhibiting coated fertilisers

• Improved herd and pasture management

• Manure management

• Renewable or electric vehicles and machinery

While farmers are already implementing

many of these measures, Jochinke stressed that affordability and accessibility remain signifcant challenges. The report acknowledges that the widespread adoption of these technologies is unlikely until after 2035.

Concerns Over Dietary Preferences and Alternative Proteins

Jochinke expressed strong opposition to the report’s suggestion of shifting dietary preferences away from red meat. “A balanced

and nutritious diet includes red meat,” he said, dismissing the idea that alternative proteins could replace red meat in Australia’s rangelands as “severely misguided.”

Barriers to a Net Zero Transition

The report identifes several critical barriers that must be addressed for agriculture to transition successfully to net zero.

These include:

• Slow development approval processes for renewable energy infrastructure

• Community opposition to key clean energy projects like wind and solar farms

• Supply chain constraints for lowemission technologies

• High costs of low and zero-emission technologies

• Workforce shortages in regional areas and new industries

• Data gaps that hinder effective decarbonisation

planning and investment

Jochinke emphasized the importance of maintaining a social licence for renewable energy projects, particularly in regional communities where resistance to infrastructure projects is growing. “This report should serve as a wake-up call for project proponents to engage early and meaningfully with regional communities,” he added.

A Path Forward for Agriculture

The report aligns with discussions from the Sustainable Agriculture Summit, reinforcing that agriculture cannot be the sole solution for offsetting emissions from other sectors.

“Innovation, respect for land use, and careful planning will be key to ensuring that agriculture thrives in Australia’s net zero future,” Jochinke concluded.

Yellow Crazy Ants Invading Agriculture and Industry, Threatening Australia’s Ecosystems and Economy

Yellow Crazy Ants (Anoplolepis gracilipes), considered one of the most destructive invasive species globally, have established themselves in Australia, posing signifcant threats to the country’s agriculture, horticulture, and local ecosystems. Known for their frenetic behaviour when disturbed and their aggressive competition for resources, these ants have begun devastating crops and wildlife, including in Queensland’s Wet Tropics.

National pest eradication expert David Priddy warns that Yellow Crazy Ants can form super colonies, which could irreversibly damage local fora and fauna if left uncontrolled. They are notorious for their ability to spray formic acid, which they use to blind and kill their prey. Despite their small size of just 3 to 5 millimetres, they can swarm in great numbers, killing much larger animals, including lizards, frogs, and bird chicks, and even threaten

sugar cane and tourism industries in Queensland.

Yellow Crazy Ants are not alone. The even more invasive Red Imported Fire Ants (RIFA) have also spread from Queensland into Northern NSW and threaten to invade all of Mainland Australia and Tasmania if not stopped. RIFA are known for their painful stings, which can cause severe allergic reactions, infections, or even death.

David Priddy, head of Sundew Professional Solutions, has been developing treatments

for both Yellow Crazy Ants and RIFA for years. His company offers a range of professional solutions, including:

• ANTagonistPRO: A large-scale insecticide for controlling ants around residential, agricultural, and industrial sites.

• SAS PRO Professional Granule Ant Killer: A fast-acting granular insecticide for controlling ants and Argentine stem weevils.

• AttractAnt PRO: A colony-killing insecticide that eliminates ants in residential, commercial, and sensitive areas

like schools or nursing homes.

Priddy stresses that controlling these invasive ants requires a proactive approach involving local stakeholders such as farmers, horticulturalists, local authorities, and transport companies, who may unknowingly spread the ants. He calls for immediate action from government entities and pest control professionals to implement effective, coordinated solutions to prevent the ants from causing further damage.

The upcoming spring season, with its warming soil and milder weather, is expected to increase ant activity, making it a crucial time for swift action to prevent widespread infestation. Lessons from the United States, where fre ants have caused over $10 billion annually in damages, highlight the costly consequences of inaction.

Priddy urges all affected industries and communities to unite in combating these twin threats before it’s too late.

National Ag Rally Opposes Government’s Water Buyback Scheme

IAN ROGERS

Farmers from the Murray-Darling Basin, alongside their communities, gathered in Canberra today to voice strong opposition to government water buybacks, which they argue are pushing family farms to the brink and hollowing out rural towns.

Members of the NSW Irrigators’ Council (NSWIC) and water users from across the country joined the rally, adding their voices to the growing outcry from agricultural sectors

nationwide. The rally called for an end to government policies that farmers claim are damaging both their livelihoods and regional Australia.

“Water diversions are already 23 percent below the sustainable limits set by the Basin Plan. Overuse is no longer the issue,” said NSWIC CEO Claire Miller.

Miller pointed out that the government is neglecting more pressing environmental issues, such as the proliferation of invasive European carp, which clog waterways and hasten

the decline of native fsh species. “Buying more water from farmers simply provides more water for carp to breed in, exacerbating the degradation of our rivers and towns,” she added. Miller criticized government policies for being based on outdated science and serving urban political interests. “Our communities and rivers are being sacrifced by government policies aimed at securing city votes, rather than addressing the real environmental challenges,” she said. She further emphasized

that the government had ignored the overwhelming opposition from Murray-Darling Basin communities during consultations last year. “When every Basin council opposes buybacks, and thousands of farmers rally in protest, how can the government claim to have regional Australia’s best interests at heart?”

The NSWIC has taken a frm stance that any water recovery for environmental purposes must not come at the cost of social or economic damage to the communities that

depend on water for their livelihoods. Miller also cited an ABARES warning that water buybacks will drive up production costs, particularly for rice and dairy industries.

“With production costs rising and many farms already struggling, these buybacks could be the fnal blow for many small to medium family farms,” she warned.

Miller also highlighted the potential impact on food prices. “It’s basic economics: higher input costs lead to higher consumer prices. Water is essential for growing food, and if water becomes more expensive, so will food. Consumers will ultimately bear the burden.”

She urged the government to consider alternative measures to improve river health, such as carp control, infrastructure upgrades, and better management of constraints. “There are more effective, sensible actions we can take right now. Reckless water recovery policies will only make the situation worse,” Miller concluded.

IAN ROGERS

Yellow Crazy Ants spit formic acid to kill their prey and dominate agriculture and horticulture. They and biting swarms of Red Imported Fire Ants comprise a double-barrelled threat to Australia.

The frst

Tuckurimba Hall was built in 1905. Sadly, this hall was burnt down in 1925. It was many years before another hall was built because they could not decide where to build it. The trustees became divided into two groups, the top enders and the bottom enders (residents of Delelvin) and no agreement could be reached where the new hall was to be built.

Agreement was reached in May 1933 when a meeting was held at the Coraki School of Arts. It was unanimously decided to build a new hall on the site of the old one. Five trustees were nominated. They were Fred Paff, Edward Jenner, Peter Gaudron, Walter Threlfo and Henry McCaughey.

The hall was built in 1937. A cyclonic storm in 1940 demolished the hall where it was rebuilt by district farmers, helped by donations of cattle and cash. The residents were very proud of the rebuilt hall and many school concerts, meetings, dances to raise money in World War 11 were held there. Young people came out from Coraki in trucks, rode horses from Dungarubba and because of the excellent dance foor, it was a popular venue.

Tuckurimba Hall never had a supper room but prepared supper on trestle tables near the stage. Cakes and sandwiches were passed around the hall on platters. Tea would follow served from big tea pots where the water was boiled in cans over

an open fre and carried inside. The children would sleep under the stools.

Land around the hall was used as a horse paddock for the school children attending Tuckurimba School during school hours. Electricity was connected to the hall in 1958. A switching on the light’s dance was held where everyone had a great time.

Performers: Alex Strong, Bruce McCaughey and Betty Fava played for many years, then Doug Blanch took over from Bruce. They called themselves “Melody Makers” and played at Green Ridge, Pidcocks Lane, Brandon Hall in Coraki, Ruthven, Bungawalbyn, Bora Ridge and Tuckurimba Halls.

Honour Rolls have always graced the walls of Tuckurimba Hall. One for 1914 – 1919 War and one for 1939 – 1945. The roll of Honour records members of the Australian Armed Forces who have died or returned home from serving overseas. They are now in a safe place at the Mid Richmond Historical Society Museum in Coraki for all to see.

George Hunt was President of the Tuckurimba Hall for many years. The hall declined during the 1970’s and 1980’s leaving no other choice but to sell. On August 9th 1997 the Tuckurimba Hall was sold to adjoining residents Rodney and Cherie Veral. Many local people have fond memories of their hall.

By Helen Trustum

PATRIOTIC LEAGUE

The Patriotic League was formed in the Tuckurimba Hall on July 2nd1940. PresidentHenry McCaughey Jnr., Vice Presidents L. Sutton and A.E. Campbell, Treasurer – Ted Leadbeater, Secretary –H.G. McCaughey. Bridle race meetings and socials were held to defray cost of sending parcels of comforts for Christmas to local recruits at War. All men received a parting gift from the League and a khaki pullover from the Red Cross. In 1943, 42 parcels were forwarded and included a half pound cake made by local members. A welcome home social was arranged for the recruits returning and an invitation extended to the families. An Honour Roll was unveiled on Empire Day 24th May 1946 and was hung in the Tuckurimba Hall along with an Honour Roll from the First World War. In 1997 both Rolls were handed over to the Mid Richmond Historical Society at Coraki.

RED CROSS

The Tuckurimba ladies met in the Tuckurimba Hall on Wednesday August 22nd 1917 for the purpose of forming a branch of the Red Cross Society. Those present were, Mesdames Hindmarsh, McLean, Barnard and Harris from Lismore, Simpson, Kennedy, Hunt, Smith, Tinkler, J. Paff, F. Paff, Margaret Maxwell, Jenner, Thurgood, Threlfo, McCaughey and Misses Hunt, Paff and Tinkler. Apologies

were received from Mrs Mclaren, Mrs Casey, Mrs Smith and Mrs McLean. Offcers elected – President – Mrs Simpson, Vice Presidents – Mrs Tinkler and Mrs Hunt, Secretary – Miss Gladys Hunt and Treasurer – Mrs Kennedy. Members took on the task of sewing and knitting for the troops and many items were forwarded to the Lismore Branch for despatch. On July 7th 1920 the group disbanded and reformed again on October 25th 1939 in conjunction with Coraki. Then in 1940 the group decided to change back to Tuckurimba and go alone. The branch has continued to function to this day, where they meet monthly in the Wyrallah Hall.

PROGRESS ASSOCIATION

The frst meeting of the Tuckurimba Progress Association was held on June 1st 1890 at Alex Robertson’s residence, North Arm. Mr Baxter was paid 1/- (10 cents) for the use of Baxter’s Cottage near the Tuckurimba Provincial School for the purpose of holding their Progress Meetings. Their meeting on August 16th 1905 was held in the newly built Tuckurimba Hall. President – William McLean, Vice President – James Fogwell, Secretary/Treasurer –Henry McCaughey.

Ref – Mid R. R. H. Society at Coraki, RRHS in Lismore, Northern Star May 22nd 1933, also from the writings of the late Monica McCaughey, Tuckurimba.

Tuckurimba Hall taken in 1937

Jess Dolby, Nita Haynes and Marie Smith with their Red Cross Certifcates.

Tuckurimba Hall taken in 1998

Don Keevers, Alex Strong and Doug Blanch playing at Ruth Leadbeatter’s 21st at the Tuckurimba Hall in 1952.

Red Cross Ladies - Olive Maxwell, Jean Webster and Joy McCaughey taken outside Tuckurimba Hall.

Honour Roll from First World War Honour Roll for 1939 - 1945

Red Cross Ladies - Mavis Garbutt and Barbara Schaffer

RAS Rural Achiever Award Opens Doors for Young Rural Leaders

IAN ROGERS

The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) is calling on passionate and visionary young leaders from rural and regional communities to apply for the RAS Rural Achiever Award—a prestigious opportunity that could transform their careers and futures.

Applications are now open for the statewide leadership program, which targets individuals aged 20-29 who have demonstrated a strong commitment to their rural communities and who show exceptional leadership potential.

The program aims to celebrate and support these emerging leaders, offering them invaluable experiences to further their impact.

Launched in 1989, the program will select eight fnalists who will share in $17,000 in prize money. Additionally, they will embark on an all-expenses-paid, 8-day immersion behind the scenes of the iconic Sydney Royal Easter Show. During this time, fnalists will gain exclusive access to networking opportunities with industry leaders and policymakers, attend offcial functions, and participate in leadership development activities.

Grace Collins, the 2024 Rural Achiever Award winner, credits the program with playing a crucial role in her professional development. “The RAS Rural Achiever program has opened doors for me, not just within agriculture, but across

multiple industries,” Collins said. “It has provided opportunities for personal and

professional growth, as well as the chance to connect with likeminded individuals

and build lifelong relationships through RAS networks.”

Finalists for the 2025 Rural Achiever program will be selected via an interview process, with the winner to be announced at the conclusion of the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

Throughout the 8-day program, participants will showcase their leadership and knowledge through a series of activities, including a speaking showcase. The NSW Rural Achiever will also represent the state at the National Rural Ambassador Awards.

Program Councillor in Charge, Yvette McKenzie, highlighted the importance of the initiative for young leaders. “For over 30 years, the RAS Rural

Achiever program has identifed and supported outstanding advocates for rural Australia. These future leaders drive innovation, inspire excellence, and build a legacy of leadership in their communities. It’s a platform that launches careers and fosters lasting change in the wider agricultural industry,” McKenzie said.

Applications for the RAS Rural Achiever Scholarship close on Friday, 20 September 2024, with fnalists set to be announced in December 2024. For more information or to apply, visit the RAS website at https:// www.rasnsw.com.au/ competitions/youth/ RAS-rural-achieveraward-details/

Landcare Grants Program Open for Community Groups to Plant Native Trees

Grant Funding

Available: $5,000 to $25,000

Applications Close: 30 September 2024

Landcare Australia, in partnership with Bupa, is now accepting grant applications from community groups and organisations across Australia to support the planting of 75,000 native trees and shrubs in urban and peri-urban areas. Grants between $5,000 and $25,000 are available to assist with this large-scale environmental initiative.

Eligible applicants include a wide range of community-based groups and networks such as Landcare groups, environmental organisations, local governments, Traditional Owners, and First Nations organisations.

Groups like Bushcare, Coastcare, and NRM organisations are also encouraged to apply. The initiative focuses on planting native vegetation endemic to local areas, aiming to

restore ecosystems and create more green spaces in communities. This grant program, part of Bupa’s Healthy Cities Challenge, is designed to foster both environmental

restoration and human wellbeing. By increasing the connectivity of native habitats and improving biodiversity, the project seeks to enhance the quality of life for residents in urban areas.

Landcare Australia’s CEO, Dr. Shane Norrish, highlighted the importance of the collaboration with Bupa, saying, “This is our frst healthfocused partnership on a national scale, linking human health with environmental restoration. This funding will encourage communities to engage with their environment while also promoting biodiversity and habitat

restoration.”

Bupa APAC CEO, Nick Stone, echoed this sentiment: “Our Healthy Cities Challenge is about creating healthier people and healthier environments. By combining physical activity with environmental action, we are helping communities thrive while restoring vital ecosystems.”

For more information and to apply for the Bupa Landcare Project Funding, visit: Landcare Australia’s Bupa Healthy Cities Projects at https:// landcareaustralia.org. au/bupa-healthy-citieslandcare-projects/

IAN ROGERS

Farmers Rally in Canberra to Demand Their Voices Be Heard

More than 2,000 farmers and their supporters gathered on the lawns in front of Parliament House in Canberra, sending a resounding message to policymakers: farmers feel they are not being listened to. They are concerned that their voices are being drowned out by antifarming activists who, according to the farming community, are pushing agendas that harm the agricultural industry.

The event, organized by the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF), was preceded by a convoy of approximately 40 trucks and farm vehicles, a visible display of unity and determination from the farming community. The rally aimed to draw attention to the challenges farmers face, particularly the decisions being made without their input.

The NFF extended its gratitude to everyone involved in the rally, including the farmers and supporters who travelled from across the country, those who watched from home, the media who covered the event, and the NFF members who stood behind this historic moment.

A Rallying Call for Farmers

The highlight of the

day was the passionate speech delivered by NFF President David Jochinke, who articulated the frustrations and aspirations of the farming community. Drawing on his own family’s history of service to the country, Jochinke expressed his deep commitment to the agricultural sector and the need for farmers to have a seat at the table when critical decisions are made.

“I am a son of a national serviceman. My grandparents fought for this nation, so I know how to fght, and I know what service means. I bloody well know what is best for this industry, and it is decided by us,”

Jochinke declared, his words met with applause from the crowd.

Jochinke highlighted the importance of respect for farmers, who manage over 55% of Australia’s land and contribute signifcantly to the nation’s prosperity. “We are proud farmers. We work the land. We deserve to be respected,” he said. The rally, according to Jochinke, was not just about airing grievances but about demanding a fair go for those who sustain the country.

A Critical Meeting with Government Jochinke also shared

details of a meeting he and NFF CEO Tony Mahar had with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese just before the rally. The primary topic of discussion was the government’s decision to ban the live export of sheep, a move that has sparked widespread concern within the farming community.

“We made it very clear that we do not agree with the decision to ban live sheep exports. We will not roll over on this issue. We understand they have different opinions, but they are not our opinions,” Jochinke said.

He emphasized the importance of including farmers in the policymaking process. “Any policy they develop needs to have their key stakeholder at the table. And do you know who that is? Us. We need to be at the table. That is where we are going to get outcomes because we are the ones who understand what’s best for the industry.”

Activist Voices and Farmer Solutions Jochinke also expressed concern about the growing infuence of activist groups in shaping policy. He warned that these groups are often well-resourced and united in their opposition to farming practices, which can lead to policies that harm the agricultural sector.

“There are alternative voices setting the agenda, and we don’t think they should be the ones driving policy. We stand between prosperity and the starvation of this nation,” he stated, emphasizing that farmers are the true interface between the environment and the consumer. “Bad ideas that are created from activist ideology and aren’t founded by farmers and fact will always be bad.”

Jochinke called for unity within the farming community, urging farmers to continue pushing their voices to the forefront. “It’s those who show up, have their voices heard. We must be loud and smart, and we must put our policy frst.”

He concluded his speech by reminding the crowd that farmers hold the solutions to many of the challenges facing agriculture. “We are some of the best farmers in the world. Not only do we adopt the best technology, but we also create it,” Jochinke said. A Call to Action: No Farmers, No Food As the 2024 federal election approaches, Jochinke stressed the importance of holding politicians accountable to the needs of farmers and the broader nation. He called on farmers to engage with the general public and emphasize their indispensable role

in society.

“So, there is a very simple thing we have to say: No farmers, no food. It’s a simple message, but we must make sure our voices are heard and that we are consulted on the policies that affect us.”

Jochinke thanked the farmers and supporters who attended the rally, acknowledging that those who show up are the ones who set the agenda. “Thank you for being heard and keep

“Let’s

farmers farming.”

Petition Gathers Momentum

The NFF’s petition against the live export ban and other key issues has garnered nearly 1,500 signatures. Supporters are encouraged to continue signing the petition at NFF National Farmer Rally.

https://nff.org.au/ national-farmerrally/#petition

Crush It!” –Relief as Mill Pay Dispute Resolved

CANEGROWERS

Chairman Owen Menkens has called for unity within Queensland’s sugarcane industry following the resolution of a protracted pay dispute between Wilmar Sugar and three unions representing mill workers.

After a 48-hour vote, workers at Wilmar’s nine Queensland mills accepted a new Enterprise Agreement, proposed by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables last week, ending the long-standing dispute.

“It’s great to have this issue fnally resolved in a way that is acceptable

to both the workers and the mill,” said Mr. Menkens. “The dispute has dragged on for far too long, delaying cane crushing for half the industry and causing signifcant stress for growers and contractors.”

With the agreement in place, Mr. Menkens urged the industry to unite and focus on making the 2024 season a success.

“Now it’s time to put it behind us, support our mill workers and contractors, and push forward. Let’s crush it between now and December.”

IAN ROGERS

ABARES Weekly Australian Climate, Water, and Agricultural Update

In the week ending 11 September 2024, a series of cold fronts and low-pressure systems brought rainfall to parts of western and southern Australia, leaving most other regions dry. Cropping regions in Western Australia and South Australia received rainfall totals between 5 and 25 millimetres, while Victoria recorded between 5 and 10 millimetres. Other areas remained mostly dry.

In the coming days, low-pressure systems are expected to bring showers to eastern and northern parts

of the country, while high-pressure systems will keep central and western regions largely dry. Cropping regions in Queensland are forecasted to receive between 5 and 25 millimetres of rain, while New South Wales could see between 5 and 50 millimetres.

Western Australia, South Australia, and Victoria are likely to experience little to no rainfall, potentially reducing soil moisture in southern areas.

Looking ahead, the national rainfall outlook for October to December indicates a high probability of

above-median rainfall across the eastern half of Australia. Most cropping regions have a 60% or greater chance of receiving above-median rainfall, particularly in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. In contrast, parts of Western Australia are expected to receive median to below-median rainfall.

Expected rainfall totals of 50 to 200 millimetres could maintain crop yields and provide a positive start to the summer cropping season.

Water storage levels in the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB) fell by 146 gigalitres (GL)

between 5 September and 12 September 2024, bringing the current volume to 18,277 GL, or 82% of total capacity. This is 6% (1,355 GL) less than the same period last year. Water storage data is sourced from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM).

In the water markets, allocation prices in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke dropped slightly from $147/ML on 5 September to $145/ML on 12 September. Prices remain lower in the Murrumbidgee region due to the binding of the Murrumbidgee export limit.

Global Food Standards Committee Convenes in Cairns for 27th Session

Food regulators from over 60 countries are gathering in Cairns this week for the 27th Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certifcation Systems (CCFICS), an international forum aimed at harmonising food safety standards critical to global trade and food security.

Chaired by Australia, CCFICS plays a pivotal role in setting international standards that help ensure food safety while reducing barriers to trade for importers and exporters. These efforts beneft a wide array of stakeholders, including farmers, food

businesses, regulators, and consumers.

Speaking at the opening of the session,

Tina Hutchison, Deputy Secretary for Agricultural Trade and Regulation, emphasised the signifcance of the committee’s work in shaping international food safety systems. “CCFICS standards support the design and operation of national food control systems to ensure food is safe,” said Ms. Hutchison. “They provide a transparent framework to promote fair practices in the international food trade.”

This week’s discussions will focus on developing guidelines for the prevention and

control of food fraud, equivalence of food controls across countries, and traceability within national food control systems. These efforts aim to facilitate trade, reduce regulatory costs, and protect consumers by promoting uniform food safety standards globally.

Delegates will also consider proposals on new initiatives, including the use of digital technologies and AI in food inspection and certifcation systems, standardisation of electronic certifcation, and guidance for imported food rejections.

As a subsidiary of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, CCFICS

operates under the umbrella of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Codex food standards serve as the global benchmark for food safety under the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures, ensuring WTO signatories align with Codex.

Australia has chaired and hosted the CCFICS sessions since the frst meeting in 1992, with this week marking its 27th session, running from Monday through Friday.

IAN ROGERS

Memorial Notice

In loving memory of GRANT

This is the luxury of music it touches every key of memory and stirs all the hidden springs of sorrow and joy. I love it for what it makes me forget, and for what it makes me remember.

Loved and remembered every day

My favourite Organist my loving friend and husband, sadly missed by Elaine. and all of his loving Virtue and McAnelly Families SEE YOU IN THE MORNING

Memorial Notice

In Memoriam Kay Elizabeth Flick

15th April 1949 – 7th September 2023

Every day, in some small way, memories of you come my way. Though absent, you are ever near, still missed, still loved, and ever dear.

No longer by my side but forever in my heart.

Bert

Late of Lismore and Ballina. Passed away peacefully at Bupa Aged Care, Ballina, on Sunday 8th September 2024, aged 94. Devoted wife of William (Bill) (dec.). Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Trevor, Barry & Jenny, Terry & Julie, Judith & Barry and Carol. Cherished big nanny of her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. Loved and sadly missed by her extended family and friends.

A private service was held.

Ballina 02 6686 7036

VALLOTTO, GARRY DENNIS JOHN

Tragically passed away 3rd September 2024 in Sydney NSW. Formerly of Casino.

Beloved son of Cecil (decd) & Margaret.

Loved brother of Cheryl, Jenny, Narelle, Dianne, Les (dec.) and their partners. Aged 54 Years

A memorial service will be held for Garry on WEDNESDAY 25th September 2024 commencing at 11.00am at e Arentz Chapel, Parkview Funeral Home, 41 Walker Street, Casino.

WEATHER

Northern Rivers District:

The chance of morning fog. Sunny day. Light winds becoming northerly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Sunny. Light winds becoming west to northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District:

Sunny. Areas of morning frost in the south. The chance of morning fog near the Queensland border. Light winds becoming west to northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning. Thursday. Sunny. Winds westerly 25 to 40 km/h.

New South Wales:

Dry and sunny apart from the chance of a late shower about the southern Alpine peaks with snow possible above 1600 metres. Morning frost along the ranges, slopes and inland. Morning fog possible in the north east. Daytime temperatures near or a little above average. West to northwesterly winds, becoming fresh and gusty about the southern ranges and tending northeasterly along the north coast.

Thursday. Scattered showers developing about the southern ranges and adjacent western slopes, with snow possible on the Alpine peaks above 1400 metres. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere. Patchy morning frost about the western slopes. Daytime temperatures a little above average in the north and a little below average in the far south. West to northwesterly winds freshening during the day and turning south southwesterly in the far west in the afternoon or evening.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Variable about 10 knots becoming northwesterly 10 to 15 knots during the morning then tending northerly 15 to 25 knots during the day. Seas: Below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Southerly 2 to 3 metres, decreasing to 1.5 to 2 metres during the afternoon. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: Northwesterly 10 to 15 knots turning northerly 15 to 20 knots during the day. Seas: Below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the afternoon. Swell: Southerly 2 to 3 metres, decreasing to 2 metres during the afternoon. Weather: Sunny. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Variable about 10 knots becoming northerly 15 to 20 knots during the afternoon. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Southerly 1.5 to 2.5 metres, decreasing to 1.5 metres during the evening. Weather: Partly cloudy.

The Australian Longboard Titles have offcially begun with an Opening Ceremony at the Hyundai Surfng Australia High Performance Centre (HPC), marking the start of a six-day event on the Tweed Coast in northern New South Wales. Held on Bundjalung Country, the competition is part of the 2024 Australian Surf Championships and is the longest-running event on the Australian surfng calendar.

Athletes from all six surfng states are competing in various longboard divisions at some of the region’s

BALLINA MAHJONG RESULTS - 13TH SEPTEMBER 2024

1. Margaret Bryant

2. Ronda Taylor

3. Shirley Atkinson

4. Susan Allan

5. Lorna Simpson

6. Sally Lowry

7. Vanessa Reynolds

8. Jeanette Henwood

9. Cindy Smith

10. Valda McLerie

11. Linda Lloyd

12. Lisa Wong

13. Gail McDonagh

14. Pam Farrell

15. Joy Lowien

16. Lynda Lovett

17. Susan Scott

18. Pauline Kearney

19. Barbara Ellan

20. Jan Boardman

21. Jan Henley

22. Rosemary Russell

23. Leslie Richie

Next game: Friday at

most famous surf spots, including Cabarita Beach, Kingscliff Beach, Fingal Beach, and Duranbah Beach. With nearly 120 competitors in the Masters divisions, this year’s event is one of the largest in recent memory.

Surfng Australia Contest Director Glen Elliott is optimistic about the weather, predicting a strong swell that will provide excellent surf conditions, especially for the Open Men’s and Women’s divisions. “The forecast looks great,” he said, “with a solid 3-5 foot swell expected for the frst few days of

competition.”

Competitor Nathan Rivalland, from Jan Juc, Victoria, expressed his excitement to be part of the event. “This is my third time competing, and it’s epic to be up here. I made the semis last year and I’m hoping to go even better this year.”

Winners of the Open

12:30 PM at the Ballina Bridge Club, North Creek Road.

New players are welcome! For enquiries, contact Shirley at 0423 384 647.

CASINO RSM WOMEN’S BOWLS UPDATE

On Wednesday, 11th September, several matches in the 1st round of the Major Singles were played. The results are as follows:

• Judy Carthew defeated Marlene Jordan

• Ivy Watson defeated Denise Skinner

• Helen Lavelle defeated Mary Mead Good luck to all the winners as they advance to the next round

CASINO SOCIAL GOLF RESULTS15TH SEPTEMBER 2024

• Winner: Jeff Rankin with a Stableford score of 30 points.

• Runner-up: Darryl Green with 26 points.

• Putting Trophy: G. Randall with 17 putts.

• Players Draw: M. Gooding.

Nearest to Pins:

• 8th & 17th: D. Diews

• 9th & 16th: R. Ruttley

• 11th & 15th: T. Hook

• 12th: D. Hampson

• 14th & 18th: B. Yates

Next Sunday, there will be no social golf due to the Pro-Am. However, the following Sunday, the event sponsored by Gumbo Pies will be a single

Men’s and Women’s divisions will secure spots on the Australian surfng team, the Irukandjis, for the 2025 ISA World Longboard Championship. All division winners will also receive a longboardspecifc coaching session at the Hyundai Surfng Australia HPC.

Key Divisions:

stroke on the top 11 holes for the monthly medal. Visitors are welcome to play with hit-off times from 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM.

CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB SPORTS RESULTS

Interclub Challenge

Shield Northern Rivers:

• Cherry Street defeated Coutts Crossing 22-14.

• Cherry Street Team: Captain R. Chapman, J. Hannigan, M. Russell, B. Wellings, J. Dorward, W. Gilmore, J. O’Sullivan, R. Poynting, G. Lewis, C. Edlund, N. Barnes, P. Waters, N. Poynting. Interstate Challenge Shield Golf Croquet:

• Under 18 Junior Men & Women

• Open Men & Women

• Masters & Grand Masters (40+ and beyond)

Competition Schedule:

• Window 1: Friday, Sept 13 - Saturday, Sept 14 (Open Men & Women, U18 Junior Men & Women)

• Window 2: Saturday, Sept 14 - Tuesday, Sept 17 (Masters, Grand Masters, and older divisions)

For more information, scan the QRCode below This year’s event is supported by Hyundai, Jim Beam, and Surfers for Climate.

• Results: NSW 1st, WA 2nd, VIC 3rd, SA 4th, TAS 5th, QLD 6th.

• NSW Team: D. Scott, J. Sullivan, A. Sharp, M. Scruton, M. Powys, E. Gumbrell, K. McGlynn, R. Landrebe, S. Sellers, P. Markwell, K. Bisley, C. Williamson. Congratulations to both teams! Croquet for Kids

• Tuesday, 8th October, starting at 12 PM.

• All welcome! For more information, contact Robyn Poynting at 0414 700 512.

CORAKI VETERANS GOLF RESULTSTHURSDAY, 12TH SEPTEMBER 2024

• Monthly Medal Winner (September): B. McDonald

• Veterans Winner: N. T. Newton

• 2nd Place: B. Kerrison

• 3rd Place: S. Smith

• Free Game: A. Parr Chicken/Ball Winners: J. Celich, G. O’Connor, S. Dawson, B. Micheal, G. Brown, S. O’Connor, J. Nilsson, R. Rodda, S. Toms, G. Flaherty, K. Osborne, J. Braby.

Nearest to Pins:

• 3rd/12th: B. Kerrison

• 6th/15th: G. Flaherty

Putting Competition: B. Micheal

Next event: 18-hole 4BBB Stableford starting at 8:30 AM this Thursday.

Good golfng until then!

The Australian Longboard Titles have offcially kicked off with an Opening Ceremony. Credit: Lachlan Ross / Surfng Australia

The Australian Longboard Titles feature athletes representing all six surfng states. Image: Lighthouse Sports Photography / Surfng Australia

The Australian Longboard Titles are being held as stand-alone event on the Tweed Coast in northern NSW. Image: Lighthouse Sports Photography / Surfng Australia

CASUARINA, NSW

The highly anticipated Woolworths SurfGroms season is set to kick off this month, marking its 14th year of providing young Australians with their frst taste of surfng.

Over 8,000 children aged 5 to 12 are expected to participate in the popular nationwide program.

SurfGroms, run by accredited surf schools, offers after-school, weekend, and holiday sessions, and is also part of the Sport Australia’s Sporting Schools program, making surfng accessible through school curriculums.

The launch aligns perfectly with the spring school holidays, a time when beach trips increase, and water safety becomes a priority for families.

Blake Whittaker, Surfng Australia’s

Participation & Programs Manager, expressed the organization’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of surfers: “Surfng Australia is dedicated to educating young surfers and promoting a healthy, safe lifestyle in local communities. The SurfGroms program is central to this mission, introducing kids to surfng and fostering a lifelong passion for the sport.”

Woolworths Group’s Chief Marketing Offcer, Andrew Hicks, highlighted the broader educational value of the program: “We’re proud to support SurfGroms for our eighth consecutive year. Beyond the fun and challenge of surfng, the program provides an opportunity to educate children and their families about how

fresh food can fuel peak performance—not only in sport but in everyday life. We’re excited to watch young surfers hit the waves, especially after seeing Olympic stars like Tyler Wright, Molly Picklum, Jack Robinson, and Ethan Ewing inspire the next generation.”

This year, the program includes a national competition with

exciting prizes, such as NSP surfboards, signed Irukandjis t-shirts from Australia’s Olympic surf team, and Rip Curl packs.

Every Woolworths SurfGrom participant will also receive a $50 Rip Curl Club voucher, a Woolworths $10-off shop*, a Boardsox fn bag, a Cooee beach toy, and for a limited time, Sun & Earth Zinc.

The program caters to two age groups: MiniGroms (5 to 8 years) and SuperGroms (9 to 12 years), with fve progressive skill levels across both categories. Rip Curl presents Woolworths SurfGroms with support from partners including Ruffe, BoardSox, NSP Surfboards, Surfers for Climate, Sun & Earth Zinc, and Cooee Toys &

Games.

The Woolworths SurfGroms program is delivered through the Surfng Australia Surf Schools Network, which features over 70 delivery partners nationwide. For more information, visit the offcial website at www.surfgroms.com.

*Terms and conditions apply for the Woolworths $10-off shop.

The 2024 Australian Longboard Titles crowned four new champions after a thrilling day of competition at Cabarita Point, where clean, glassy offshore conditions created the perfect setting for the fnals. With surfers from

New South Wales and Queensland claiming victories, the competition so far has been nothing short of exciting.

Surfng Australia

Contest Director Glen Elliott praised the conditions, stating: “We were greeted with prime longboard conditions in

the three-to-four-foot range. As the tide flled in, it provided multiple scoring opportunities from the outside banks through to the shore break. The elder statesmen in the Over-55 and Over-60 divisions were frst in the water, followed by the fercely competitive Over-40 Men. The Junior and Open Men and Women wrapped up the day, showcasing their impressive longboarding manoeuvres.”

haven’t had waves that good in a long time, and I’m super pleased with my surfng today,” Waite said.

In the Under 18 Junior Men division, Lennix Currie (Tewantin, QLD) also successfully defended his 2023 title, proving once again why he’s one of the rising stars in Australian longboarding.

The Open Women’s division saw Tully White (Allambie Heights, NSW) take home the win with a remarkable display of skill.

The standout of the day was 16-year-old Mia Waite (Noosa Heads, QLD), who dominated the Under 18 Junior Women’s division with a stunning performance. Waite posted the highest single wave score of the day, 8.83, and the highest heat total, 14.16, to defend her Australian title. “I’m super glad I could defend my title. I

Refecting on her victory, White said, “I’m super grateful and I can’t wait to represent Australia on the world stage at the ISA’s. I also wanted to say a massive well done to the Junior girls. I’ve never been so blown away—they’ve been incredible.”

In the Open Men’s

division, Declan Wyton (Manly, NSW) delivered a masterclass in cross-stepping, nose-riding, and power turns, securing his third Australian title. “It’s been pumping, and the standard has been super high with Josh, Archy, and Clinton all in the fnal. Cabarita is the perfect spot for a competition—it’s like a big amphitheatre looking down. The Juniors have been incredible, they’re such an inspiration. This is the best Aussies I’ve been to,” Wyton said.

FINALS RESULTS

Under 18 Junior Women

• Mia Waite (Noosa Heads, QLD) – 14.16

• Luana Matthies (Miami, QLD) – 11.17

• Nyjah Jay Duazon (Sunrise Beach, QLD) – 7.93

• Mahli Abbott (Pottsville, NSW) – 7.07

Under 18 Junior Men

• Lennix Currie (Tewantin, QLD) – 10.10

• Jive Constable (Noosa Heads, QLD) – 7.23

• Ted Conroy (Point Lonsdale, VIC) – 7.14

• Kai Flynn (Cowaramup, WA) –5.27

Open Women

• Tully White (Allambie Heights, NSW) – 12.57

• Melanie Staunton (Belmont, VIC) – 10.87

• Mia Waite (Noosa Heads, QLD) – 10.46

• Emma Perrier (Tweed Heads, NSW) – 7.87

Open Men

• Declan Wyton (Manly, NSW) – 14.24

• Clinton Guest (Bokarina, QLD) – 12.70

• Josh Constable (Noosa Heads, QLD) –11.70

• Archy Bemrose (Kingscliff, NSW) – 9.23

Photo to the right: Olympic Bronze Medallist Owen Wright taking a Woolworths SurfGroms lesson at Seas The Day. Credit: Andy Morris / Surfng Australia

In a spectacular show of talent, determination, and hometown pride, Yallingup Boardriders Club secured a thrilling victory in the opening event of the Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle (ABB) Series 12 at Trigg Beach, WA. Under sunny skies and contestable one-to-threefoot waves, Yallingup’s third consecutive ABB win has punched their ticket to the 2025 Grand Final at Burleigh Heads, QLD, where they’ll face Australia’s top boardrider clubs in a showdown for surfng supremacy.

The event featured ABB’s signature ‘tag team’ format, with each club felding a lineup of two open males, one open female, one over-35 master (male or female), and one under-18 junior (male or female). The combined scores of all surfers contributed to the team total, with Yallingup’s blend of experience and youth edging them to victory in a nail-biting fnal against Trigg Point Boardriders Club.

Yallingup’s squad— Maverick Wilson, Ruby Berry, Josh Cattlin,

Zak Ogram, and Ash Farrow—amassed a team total of 30.63, just 0.09 points ahead of Trigg Point in a fercely contested fnal. The win solidifes their spot in next year’s Grand Final.

“To make the Grand Final again is epic,” said Zak Ogram, Yallingup President. “We had an amazing team on paper at this year’s fnal, but paper can’t run uphill. Everyone feels we can go better than we did, so we can’t wait to get back there.”

Trigg Point Boardriders Club, who fnished second with a total of 30.54, also earned their place at the Grand Final.

Seb Pellizon, Luke Campbell, Isi Campbell, Tim Fitzpatrick, and Jake Scott impressed with their local knowledge, pushing Yallingup to the edge in the fnal moments. Luke Campbell, Trigg’s power surfer, delivered a clutch performance that nearly secured the win.

“These events are unreal, and that was such a close fnal,” said Tim Fitzpatrick of Trigg Point. “We’re stoked to have another crack at Burleigh, and it’s such an

amazing atmosphere to be part of.”

Margaret River Boardriders Club fnished third with a combined score of 21.80, thanks to strong performances from Andrew Sheridan, Ben Spence, Willow Hardy, Okie Fraser, and Alex McGuffn. Sheridan expressed excitement about representing WA at Burleigh, saying, “We made the semis at the last Grand Final, and we’d love to make the fnal next year.”

Geraldton Boardriders Club also delivered a strong showing with a score of 21.50, led by Mac Carter, Edel Rodden, Jake Hagan, Cruz McDonald, and Jake Molly. Unfortunately, their power surfer was unable to catch a fnal wave before the siren, but the team remains optimistic about a potential wildcard entry to the Grand Final.

“We’ll defnitely be applying for a wildcard,” said Geraldton club representative Matt Morris. “We’ve travelled the furthest to be here, and we were happy with our performance today.”

Trigg Junior Boardriders Club and Mandurah Boardriders Club rounded out the top six, demonstrating the depth of talent across metropolitan and regional Western Australia.

ABB Series Brings Out the Best of Team Spirit

The Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle is Australia’s premier club surfng competition, fostering a sense of team spirit and camaraderie in a sport typically focused on individual performances.

“Surfng is usually an individual sport, but the Hyundai ABB brings out a team spirit that’s incredibly special,” said Surfng WA Events Manager Justin Majeks.

“I want to congratulate Yallingup, Trigg Point, and Margaret River for qualifying for the Grand Final in 2025. We’re sure they’ll represent their clubs and WA with pride.”

Ruby Berry from Yallingup claimed the Oakley Prizm Performer Award for her stellar contributions throughout the day, while Geraldton Boardriders Club took home the Jim Beam Club

Spirit Award for their unwavering support and enthusiasm.

With Western Australia’s fnest set to battle at Burleigh Heads, it’s clear that WA will be a force to reckon with in the race for boardriding supremacy.

Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Series 12 - Event #1

Trigg Beach Results:

• 1st: Yallingup Boardriders Club - 30.63

- $1,500

• 2nd: Trigg Point Boardriders Club - 30.54

- $1,000

• 3rd: Margaret River Boardriders Club - 21.80

- $500

• 4th: Geraldton Boardriders Club - 21.50

• 5th: Trigg Junior Boardriders Club

• 6th: Mandurah Boardriders Club 2024/25 Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Series 12 Schedule:

• Event 1: 14th Sept –Trigg Beach, WA

• Event 2: 28th Sept –Coffs Harbour, NSW

• Event 3: 6th Oct –Phillip Island, VIC

• Event 4: 12th Oct –Sunshine Coast, QLD

• Event 5: 19th Oct –Fleurieu Peninsula, SA

• Event 6: 26th Oct –Clifton Beach, TAS

• Event 7: 2nd Nov –Wollongong, NSW

• Event 8: 9th Nov –North Narrabeen, NSW

• Grand Final: 8th-9th Mar – Burleigh Heads, QLD

For more information, visit australianboardriders battle.com. About Australian Boardrider Clubs

With over 230 boardrider clubs nationwide, these grassroots communities play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of surfng talent. Clubs regularly host competitions at world-class surf spots like Burleigh Heads, with the Hyundai ABB Grand Final expanded to include 42 clubs and offering over $115,000 in prize money. The Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Series is proudly supported by Hyundai, Jim Beam, ACCIONA, Ruffe Rustic Foods, BC™ Protein Snacks, Kennards Hire, Oakley, Dometic, Boost Mobile, Blackroll, and Surfers for Climate.