The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 220

by Tim Howard on Page

Samantha Elley on Page

Ninth councillor could decide mayor

TIM HOWARD

The race to secure the ninth and fnal spot on Clarence Valley Council could also be decisive in deciding who becomes the next mayor.

With more than 31,000 votes counted since voting closed on September 14, the frst seven or eight spots appear locked in, but a four-way battle is building for the fnal spot.

As of Saturday’s counting frst time candidate Amanda Brien held ninth spot with 1505 frst preference votes ahead of incumbent Karen Toms on 1410.

Also in the mix were former councillor Andrew Baker on 1131 and another incumbent, Ulmarra’s Steve Pickering, on 1093.

Two of the feld, incumbent mayor Peter Johnston, who had 3731 votes and a 1.22 share of his quota and frst time candidate Ray Smith who had 2415 and 0.73 of a quota, have begun canvassing for mayoral votes.

Both were confdent they have four votes from those most likely to fnd themselves on council, but conceded the ninth councillor to be elected could hold the crucial vote for both of them.

Mr Johnstone said it appeared that either Ms Brien and Ms Toms were most likely to secure the last spot.

And he acknowledged that while he was sure of support from Ms Toms, his observations of the election campaign led him to believe Mr Smith would have Ms Brien’s support.

“She was giving out Ray Smith’s how to votes and he was giving out hers and they both had their corfutes up in Dougherty property,” Mr Johnstone said.

Mr Smith did not comment on the record about where his support came from because of

Mayoral incumbent Peter Johnstone says criticism of the voting patterns in council last term was not warranted.

uncertainty over the fnal result.

“I’ve had a couple of the potential councillors ring me to indicate their support if I stood,” he said.

“But I guess we really can’t do anything until the fnal nine have been declared.”

Mr Smith said the outcome would not be determined until early next month.

“I’ve been told the Declaration of the Poll will be on October 3,” Mr Smith said.

“And then the meeting to elect the mayor and deputy mayor will be on October 17.”

Before the poll is declared the vital, if complex, distribution of preferences will decide the formation of the next council.

The NSW Electoral Commission website has a description of the “Where an elected candidate has a surplus of ballot papers over the quota, this surplus is transferred to the continuing candidates (i.e. those not yet elected or excluded).

“If multiple candidates are elected, each candidate’s surplus is transferred (one at a time) to the continuing candidates, from the highest surplus to the lowest.

“To transfer a surplus, all the ballot papers received by the elected candidate are sorted to their next preferred continuing candidate.

“Each ballot paper is then worth a portion of

that surplus. This portion is called the transfer value.

“Example: if an elected candidate had 100 ballot papers and their surplus was 10 votes, then each ballot paper would be worth 0.1 of a vote.

:A continuing candidate receiving 20 of these ballot papers would therefore receive two of the 10 surplus votes.

“After each transfer of ballot papers (and their associated votes), if any more candidates have reached quota, they are elected and added to the queue of surpluses to be transferred.

“This transfer of surpluses continues (one at a time) until all have been transferred.

Then, if vacancies remain, the candidate with the lowest number of votes is excluded.

“All the ballot papers received by this candidate, including those received from surplus transfers, are sorted to the continuing candidates according to their next available preference.”

The preferences from excluded candidates are transferred as a full vote.

Both mayoral candidates are refning their pitches ahead of the vote.

Mr Johnstone said this election was more uncertain than the 2021 poll which was not decided until the 14th preference count.

Mr Johnstone also cautioned that other councillors could come forward as candidates for mayor or deputy.

“I know that Debrah (Novak) normally puts her hand up every time, so wouldn’t be surprised if she does again,” he said.

Mr Johnstone said he would back his record as mayor, even though he had only been in the position for a year.

“I think I’m hearing all the time from the community that I think I’ve done a good job,” he said.

“I’ve only been in

Former Grafton City Council general manager Ray Smith has emerged as an alternative mayoral candidate, claiming he has support from three other candidates likely to be elected to the council.

place for a year, which normally, mayors are in place for at least two.

“Obviously, the elected mayors are in for four and but, you know, with a peer elected one, so every two years, and I’ve only had one, and what I’ve done is I’ve made a foundation.

“I think it’s a very good foundation.”

Mr Smith has never stood for offce, but has 30 years experience as a council general manager, including from 1993 to 2004 as general manager of the Grafton City Council.

He returned to the Clarence in 2022 and what he observed in the past two years convinced him to run for council and mayor.

“I was disappointed in the way it was operating,” he said.

“There were factions in council and there were voting blocks more often than not, it went fve, four, and I just felt that when you’re voting in a block, you’re not voting with your conscience, and that impedes good decision making, and therefore it becomes detrimental to the Clarence Valley.”

Mr Johnstone disputed Mr Smith’s description of the voting patterns.

He said he had created a spreadsheet of voting patterns on what he called “contentious issues”, votes decided 5-4 or 6-3.

“Now they’re no

surprises with several,” he said.

“Alison and Karen voted together a lot, as did Ian and Bill.

“But then when you get away from that he people I voted with least are actually what I would have considered my best mates on council, Greg and Jeff.

“And yet, I voted very strongly with Ian and Bill, but also with Karen.

“So you know that I think this idea that there’s some sort of voting block, it isn’t borne out by the facts.”

Mr Smith said the council looked to be in a solid fnancial position and had done some good things over its last term.

But he said it had continued to alienate many in the community and he wanted to tackle this issue.

“My frst priority would be improving the council’s engagement with the community, because that was certainly made loud and clear during the campaign process,” he said.

“The feedback I was receiving was just that lack of genuine engagement.

“Councillors were listening to the community, but you can listen, then you’ve got to put some action to what you’ve heard.”

Only one candidate, the Greens’ Greg Clancy, has indicated he would stand for the deputy’s job. He was elected as deputy mayor on a ticket with Ian Tiley in 2021, but did not stand for election at the mayoral election last year. He was replaced by Jeff Smith, who, like Mr Tiley, did not run this time.

Dr Clancy was often critical of the last council’s leadership and decisions and said he would support Mr Smith’s bid to become mayor.

“I hope he can see his way clear to give me some support,” Dr Clancy said.

Opening of $7 million sewerage system unlocks 600 home sites in Goonellabah

According to Lismore City mayor, Steve Krieg, it may not be the sexiest opening to attend.

However, when you realise what the new wasterwater system off Pineapple Road at Goonellabah will do, it becomes a great achievement.

“We are here today, with one of the great news stories post the food,” said Cr Krieg.

“A $7 million sewerage pump station and it doesn’t sound exceptionally sexy except for what it can do.”

“To the left of me right now, is the potential for up to 600 brand new homesites.”

“We are up in food free land earmarked as potential growth site for the Lismore LGA and none of that can happen without infrastructure like this.”

The project of building the Pineapple Road Sewerage Scheme was completed in partnership with BASEC engineering, DGP Water and Ledonne

Constructions and involved the installation of a new pump station and over four kilometres of pipeline, which created 30 local jobs.

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“Previously when developers have come and earmarked this site,

we couldn’t approve it as we didn’t have the infrastructure in place,”

“To the left of me right now, is the potential for up to 600 brand new homesites.”

Steve Krieg

said Cr Krieg.

“Now that this is built people can come to us with their development applications to say they want to start building and developing new homesites.

“It’s really exciting to

watch this area grow and to see Lismore thrive into the regional centre it deserves to be.”

Cr Krieg said the land wasn’t part of the Resilient lands package as it is part of the Lismore City Strategic Plan before the food occurred in 2022.

“If people are in a position, after a buyback or the like, then (they will have) every opportunity to be able to relocate up here,” he said.

“Along with a series of other initiatives, Council has established in recent years, it is expected this will help address the housing crisis.”

Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn, said this was an important project.

“(It) now has the potential to deliver more housing stock, desperately needed and with the necessary infrastructure in place,” she said.

The wastewater project was jointly funded by Lismore City Council, who contributed $5.6 million and the NSW Government under its NSW Regional Housing Fund with $1.4 million.

Lismore City mayor, Steve Krieg cutting the ribbon

Steve looking down into the system.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

North Coast art lovers will head to Grafton this weekend for the announcement of the winner of Australia’s richest drawing prize, the $35,000 Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award.

Better known simply as the JADA, this year’s award has attracted 65 entries locally and from around the country.

In addition to the main prize there is also a $5000 early career prize to help promising artists kick off their career.

The 2024 JADA winners will be announced at the JADA Gala on Saturday night where president of the Friends of the Gallery, Fran McHugh and Mistress of Ceremonies, Nell Schofeld, will present the prizes.

This Year’s JADA judge is the deputy director of Artspace, Sydney, Michelle Newton.

Grafton Regional Gallery director, Sarah

JADA feast for the eyes at gallery

Gurich said Ms Newton was eminently qualifed for the role.

“She has been the

Immersive Works will be on show at Grafton Regional Gallery until Sunday December 8.

deputy director at Artspace since 2012, and in this time has co-commissioned and co-curated signifcant projects with artists and in partnership with leading international institutions,” Ms Gurich said.

“She is also currently chair of Cementa, Inc. and on the board of Create NSW Visual Arts Artform Advisory Board.”

Ms G

The JADA excitement continues the following day when the winner gives a foor talk at the gallery from 11am.

In addition to the new JADA exhibits the gallery has an intriguing exhibition of previous

JADA winners and acquisitions called A Line Going for a Walk.

The exhibition name riffs on a famous quote from the artist Paul Klee, “a line is a dot that went for a walk”.

Ms Gurich said the artists featured in this exhibition have used drawing to generate and communicate their ideas to others, demonstrate their curiosity about the world, and as an intellectually driven symbol to express their

thoughts.

A Line Going for a Walk will be on show at Grafton Regional Gallery until Sunday December 8, alongside the 2024 Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award.

The third part of the trifecta for art patrons is Marion Conrow’s Immersive Works 2007–2024.

Conrow is an interdisciplinary artist based in Northern NSW.

Over her 40 year career, Conrow has developed

a multifaceted artistic practice that integrates visual imagery, projection, sculpture, virtual reality, and crossmedia installation. Her work explores themes of memory both real and imagined, particularly through the lens of her acquired mild traumatic brain injury sustained from an accident in 2007.

In this exhibition, Conrow presents four immersive projection sculptures that span her

practice from the last two decades: Autumn Flower, Unravell Egg, and Museum of My Friends #1 and #2. These works merge visual, digital, and sculptural media to explore themes of memory and identity, healing processes, creative relationships, and storytelling.

Immersive Works will be on show at Grafton Regional Gallery until Sunday December 8.

Conrow will also run a Jacaranda VJ Workshop on Saturday October 26 from 10.30am.

Limited tickets to the JADA GALA are still available via Grafton Regional Gallery Humanitix.

Tickets to the Offcial Opening of A Line Going for a Walk, the 2024 JADA, and Marion Conrow’s Immersive Works 2007– 2024 and Marion Conrow’s Jacaranda VJ Workshop are available via Grafton Regional Gallery Humanitix.

An image from A Line Going for a Walk exhibition, Noel McKenna’s 2016 ink on paper work Cat on a Lounge.

Jacaranda honour for former Matilda Jo

One of the fnest athletes to come from Grafton, former Matilda Jo Powell has accepted the invitation to be the Jacaranda Festival Guest of Honour for its 90th celebration.

One of the Clarence Valley’s leading sporting and business identities former Matilda Jo Powell has accepted the invitation to the Guest of Honour for the 90th celebration of the Jacaranda Festival.

Festival manager Mark Blackadder said he was thrilled to announce the beloved local icon would headline this historic occasion.

“This milestone event will take place from Friday October 25 to Sunday November 3 and promises to be a memorable highlight for the Clarence Valley community,” he said.

Mr Blackadder said the Grafton born and bred sportswoman and business person embodied the spirit of the town.

“With a storied career as a Matilda, she has not only made her mark in

the world of women’s football but has also become a powerful advocate for empowering individuals, especially young women, to pursue their dreams and become the best versions of themselves,” he said.

As an infuential fgure and current Matilda alumni, Ms Powell refected on her journey and how she used her platform to inspire others to embrace their potential.

“I am incredibly honoured to be part of the 90th anniversary of the Grafton Jacaranda Festival,” she said.

”This festival is a celebration of our community, our culture, and the incredible spirit of Grafton. I look forward to celebrating 90 Years in Bloom with everyone and empowering our youth to chase their dreams.”

The Grafton Jacaranda Festival is a cherished

CWA helps keep students afoat

CWA president of the Evans Head branch, Roz Redwood.

When you live as close to water as students from the Mid-Richmond area do, then it is imperative they learn how to swim.

This was the thinking of Evans Head CWA member, Lisa Davis, when a generous Evans Head business person donated money to the community organisation.

“We’ve organised swimming lesson vouchers for eight students to help get them up to speed,” said

“We are providing two vouchers each for four schools so eight students will beneft.”

The schools include Evans Head K-12, Broadwater Public School, St Joeys, Woodburn and Woodburn Public School.

In the case of Evans Head K-12, the students will be part of their intensive swimming program which is run at the Evans Head Aquatic Centre.

“From there, we will

pick two students who we think could beneft from extra lessons which can be used in the school holidays,” said Evans Head K-12 Assistant Principal, Isaac Fields.

“This is one of the most important programs we run just because of the lifestyle we have here.

“Kids are always at the beach, boating and fshing and they need to be able to swim.”

The Evans Head CWA branch hopes that next year they will be able to provide more vouchers.

tradition that showcases the beauty of the jacaranda tree and the vibrant community of Grafton.

This year’s festival will feature a range of events, including parades, live music and cultural activities, all aimed at bringing the community together in celebration and putting on a show for the thousands of visitors.

Mr Blackadder invited Grafton people in the Jacaranda City and beyond and anyone who wished to be part of one of the country’s oldest foral festivals to join in honouring Ms Powell and all that she represents at the 90th Grafton Jacaranda Festival.

For more information about the festival and its events, please visit www.jacarandafestival. com or visit the Grafton Jacaranda Festival Facebook page.

Racing NSW – Appointment of Members

Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are invited from persons wishing to be considered for appointment as a member of Racing NSW.

Racing NSW is established by section 4 the Thoroughbred Racing Act 1996 (Act). It has the statutory functions of controlling, supervising and regulating the State’s thoroughbred racing industry as well as initiating, developing and implementing policies conducive to the promotion, strategic development and welfare of the industry and the protection of the public interest as it relates to the horse racing industry.

The Minister for Gaming and Racing, the Hon David Harris MP, has established a selection panel process to identify suitable candidates.

The Act stipulates that it is the duty of each appointed member of Racing NSW to act in the public interest and in the interests of the horse racing industry as a whole in the State. The Act also requires that an appointee must have experience in a senior administrative role or experience at a senior level in one or more of the felds of business, fnance, law, marketing, technology, commerce, regulatory administration or regulatory enforcement.

The selection panel appointed to undertake the selection process will consider EOIs based on merit, taking into account a candidate’s abilities, qualifcations experience and personal attributes relevant to the performance of the duties of membership of Racing NSW.

EOIs are particularly welcome from candidates who possess experience across a range of felds and have an appreciation of the issues affecting the thoroughbred racing industry.

Competitive candidates will be required to complete a comprehensive probity assessment to be eligible for appointment and should also familiarise themselves with the requirements of the Racing NSW Board Code of Conduct.

The NSW Government is committed to diversity and inclusivity on Governmentappointed boards and committees, and to leading and encouraging diversity in the racing industry. It welcomes EOIs from candidates with diverse backgrounds, in particular women candidates.

Closing date for EOIs is 10am Tuesday, 8 October 2024.

Expressions of interest:

A candidate information pack is available on iwork.nsw.gov.au . To apply, please submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience via email to racing.admin@racing.nsw.gov.au with the subject as “Racing NSW Appointment”. SB1974

SAMANTHA ELLEY

TIM HOWARD

Permanent, Flood-Resilient Schools Reopen in Northern Rivers Following Devastating 2022 Floods

Northern Rivers students have marked the beginning of a new chapter as they move into their newly rebuilt, food-resilient schools at Wardell Public School and Empire Vale Public School, two years after both were extensively damaged in the catastrophic 2022 foods. The reopening of these schools symbolizes recovery and resilience for the region, following one of the most challenging periods in its history.

The new Empire Vale Public School welcomed students back last week. The school now features three new classrooms, a new library, a canteen, as well as new landscaping, play equipment, and administration and staff facilities. Importantly, the school’s original building, which has served the community for nearly 150 years, was retained during the rebuild, preserving its historical signifcance while incorporating modern design.

Wardell Public School has also been transformed. The rebuilt school now boasts four new classrooms, a new canteen, library, front

offce, and updated administration and staff areas. The nearby Jumbunna Sugartown Preschool continues to operate, maintaining its integral link to the local community.

Flood-Resilient Designs to Prevent Future Damage

Both schools have been rebuilt with food-resilient designs, intended to withstand future food events. The new buildings are elevated on steel structures, protecting core facilities from foodwater. Resilient materials were used throughout the construction, and downstairs areas were specifcally designed to be easily cleaned and restored if inundated by water. These measures are a key part of the strategy to ensure the schools remain safe and functional during potential future foods.

Additional Improvements Across the Region

On the Far North Coast, Mullumbimby High School also saw extensive food repair work earlier this year. The school has undergone signifcant

upgrades to its hall, library, food technology facilities, performance area, gym, and staff spaces. In addition, food restorations were completed on the school’s sports felds, playgrounds, and courts, along with planned maintenance, including the replacement of seven roofs. The school’s food resilience has been enhanced, ensuring better protection from future natural disasters. Government’s Commitment to Rebuilding These projects are part of the Minns Labor Government’s investment in rebuilding public education in NSW, particularly in communities hard-hit by natural disasters like those in the Northern Rivers. The government’s commitment to food recovery is evident in its efforts to restore and enhance educational infrastructure in the region.

Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue Car, expressed her satisfaction with the progress. “It is wonderful to see food recovery works completed and

students returning to permanent facilities at Wardell Public School and Empire Vale Public School,” she said. Car acknowledged the immense upheaval these school communities have experienced and was pleased that they now have state-of-the-art, food-resilient buildings to support their daily learning.

Greg Warren, Parliamentary Secretary for Education and Early Learning, echoed these sentiments. “These are magnifcent new facilities for staff and students to enjoy, and I look forward to seeing the benefts that these wonderful new schools will deliver for the local communities for generations to come,” Warren said, while attending the reopening celebrations.

Celebrating Strength and Community Spirit

Janelle Saffn, Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery, highlighted the signifcance of the schools’ reopening for the communities. “I know the Empire Vale and Wardell communities have been looking forward to returning to

their permanent schools after the devastation of the 2022 foods,” she said. Saffn praised the communities’ resilience during challenging times, noting that the completion of these projects marks a signifcant milestone in their recovery.

Principals Refect on Rebuilding and Looking Forward

Both school principals expressed their excitement and gratitude as they welcomed students back to the new facilities.

Bonita Avery, Principal of Empire Vale Public School, said, “We are beyond excited to be returning to these wonderful new facilities at our much-loved school. Empire Vale Public School has always been the hub of our small community, and losing the school in the devastating foods of 2022 had a huge impact on us all. Our students have remained our highest priority, and I would like to thank staff and families for your support and patience during this process.”

She added, “I look forward to starting a new chapter with this

community, and for Empire Vale Public School once again becoming the heart of our community, where learning, growth, and community connections thrive.”

Kim Wheatland, Principal of Wardell Public School, also celebrated the school’s resilience. “We are thrilled our new school has been built back stronger, with state-of-the-art features designed to withstand potential fooding. I want to acknowledge the resilience and fexibility of our teachers and students and thank our neighbours and the parent community for their incredible support throughout the rebuild,” Wheatland said.

“I look forward to working together as Wardell Public School enters this exciting new chapter,” she added.

With these foodresilient schools now operational, the Northern Rivers community can move forward with renewed optimism, knowing that its educational infrastructure is prepared for the challenges of the future.

Wardell Public School

Mullumbimby High School

Empire Vale Public School

The power of fve - Women poised to dominate council

As many as fve of the next Clarence Valley Council could be women as vote counting heads toward the distribution of preferences in the 2024 council election.

The deadline for postal votes ends on Friday and on Monday the distribution of preferences begins and is likely to conclude on October 3.

How preferences fall could spell a radical change for the next council, with two of the former council, Karen Toms and Steve Pickering sitting outside the nine.

The best placed to slip into ninth spot is Ms Toms, who with 1451 frst preference votes was 96 votes behind Amanda Brien, who holds ninth spot on current counting.

Former councillor Andrew Baker, with 1174 and another incumbent Steve Pickering on 1146 also have an outside chance of forcing their way into contention if preferences fow their way.

But predicting how this fow might go has been fraught in recent elections and could be more so this time.

Many candidates did not produce how to vote cards during campaigning and voting

patterns, like women exclusively supporting female candidates down or up the ballot paper, introduced further complexity.

Current mayor and candidate Peter Johnstone said it looked like there would be fve women on the next council with Cristie Yager, Alison Whaites, Lynne Cairns and Debrah Novak all in strong positions.

“The rule of thumb is after you’re past 1500 on frst preference you could pull another 1000 from preference, so you’re pretty safe,” Mr Johnstone said.

He said, like top candidate, Cristie Yager, he had detected a womens supporting women candidates bias in this poll.

“I would certainly say that I think Amanda and Karen are in the box seat,” he said.

Mr Johnstone said he welcome the change in voting pattern and the increase in female representation.

“The difference this time is there’s a very good chance we’re going to have fve women to four men, which I think is a very good thing, because the bias has always been the other way,” he said.

“And dare I say, there are a few men around who would only vote for men. So just goes both ways, for sure.”

He said if Ms Toms and Mr Pickering miss out it would be sad as Ms Toms had a wealth of experience on council and Mr Pickering had been active in his frst term.

“He’s somebody with a great attention to detail,” he said. It’s something I like. He does his reading. We’ve talked about reading earlier, but he

does his reading. He looks at it in detail. And that’s exactly what we need on council.”

The 2024 result could be similar to the position in 2021, when fve councillors decided not to re-contest.

This time three of the former council, Ian Tiley, Jeff Smith and Bill Day called it quits and the voters will make a decision on the other two.

The Greens candidate Greg Clancy was delighted with his vote and said the new council offered possibilities, but its makeup and leadership were still to be decided.

“It’s interesting that someone like Lynne Cairns, who’s been a bit of a thorn in the side of council, looks like she’ll be on while it could be Karen (Toms) or Steve (Pickering) might miss out,” he said.

“If that plays out it’s going to be whole different dynamic in the new council.”

He it was just guesswork trying to work out where preferences might go.

“I don’t think anyone follows how to votes much, and it wasn’t something many of us went with,” he said.

“You look at something like National Party allegiance, where Peter and Allison are involved with the party locally and there might be something there.

“And someone like Shane Causley obviously is a name with strong Nationals links, so there could be some movement that way.”

He said that while it was interesting to speculate, it really came down to waiting until the fnal count on October 2 and the poll declaration the next day.

The next Clarence Valley Council looks almost certain to be female dominated for the frst time with fve candidates with a real chance of making the cut. Cristie Yager, Alison Whaites, Lynne Cairns and Debrah Novak look certain to be part of the next council and Amanda Brien is in ninth spot to date with Karen Toms less than 100 votes behind her.

TIM HOWARD

NSW Government Offers $20,000 Sign-On Bonus to Boost Midwifery Roles in Regional Areas

In an effort to address critical workforce shortages, midwives who choose to relocate and work in rural, regional, and remote areas of NSW will be eligible for a $20,000 sign-on bonus. This initiative is part of a new trial starting later this month, aimed at strengthening healthcare support for mothers, babies, and families in these underserved regions.

The trial, under the NSW Government’s Rural Health Workforce Incentive Scheme, will run for six months, from 30 September 2024 to 31 March 2025. The one-time payment will be offered to midwives who relocate to and commence work in facilities classifed between levels three and seven on the Modifed Monash Model, which includes many rural and remote locations.

Attracting healthcare professionals to regional, rural, and remote areas has long been a challenge for health authorities and governments. This trial is one component of the Minns Government’s broader strategy to strengthen the state’s health workforce, particularly in regions where shortages are most acute.

The Rural Health Workforce Incentive Scheme is supported by a range of other initiatives designed to bolster staffng levels and healthcare quality across NSW, including:

• Safe Staffng Levels Initiative in emergency departments

• Ongoing funding for 1,112 full-time nurses and midwives

• Abolition of the wages cap and the largest pay increase in over a decade for nurses and

other healthcare workers

• Rollout of 500 additional paramedics in regional, rural, and remote communities

• An additional $200.1 million investment to enhance health worker accommodation in these areas.

attracting and retaining more healthcare workers in regional, rural, and remote areas, ensuring that people living in these communities receive high-quality, timely care close to home.

“Workforce shortages in these areas remain the single biggest challenge facing our health system. Midwives help deliver nearly 100,000 babies across NSW each year, and regardless of location, providing women, families, and their partners with compassionate, high-quality care is paramount.

For midwives interested in applying for the bonus and relocating, further details on eligibility and applications can be found on the NSW Health website.

Quotes from Minister for Health, Ryan Park:

“This Government is fully committed to

“Through this innovative trial, we are exploring new ways to fll critical vacancies in our regions and build a stronger, more supported regional health workforce.”

Eroded Bank of Simpsons Creek Restored and Stabilised

A severely eroded section of Simpsons Creek, near the Brunswick Heads Bowling Club, has been successfully repaired. The creek, a popular spot for both locals and visitors, had been experiencing long-term erosion, which worsened in recent months. The damage had washed away a portion of the gravel footpath and a light, prompting urgent restoration efforts.

This week, contractors carefully flled the eroded area with sand

and compacted it, taking care to avoid damaging nearby tree roots.

Malcolm Robertson, Acting Director of Infrastructure Services, emphasized the challenges of working in such a delicate

environment.

“There are a lot of considerations when working on a project like this because of the sensitive marine environment,” Mr. Robertson said. “It’s not just a case of flling in

the eroded section—we need to make it as strong as possible, otherwise the damage will most likely reoccur.”

After flling and compacting the area, it was top-dressed and stabilised using natural

coir mesh. Native grasses and other plant species were then introduced, and the area was fenced off to allow the bank to stabilise and the plants to establish themselves.

In partnership with

the Brunswick Heads Progress Association, large rocks have been sourced to create a car park, preventing vehicles from driving too close to the creek bank. The footpath is also undergoing repairs, and the damaged lighting will be replaced to ensure the safety and enjoyment of visitors. This restoration project highlights the careful balance between infrastructure maintenance and environmental preservation.

Men’s Health Education Rural Van – visit to BALLINA

BALLINA-ONRICHMOND ROTARY CLUB IS HOSTING A VISIT FROM MHERV “Saving local lives” is the objective of the Rotary Men’s Health Education Rural Van (mherv) which thanks to the Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond is coming to our local area.

The MHERV Project offers FREE 10-minute health checks and whilst the program was originally targeted to men, women are also encouraged to take advantage of a free screening, which covers BP, Cholesterol and Diabetes.

This free service has been operating for 6 years with the aim to ensure men and women are receiving health screening, as many are not fnding time to see

their GP for check-ups.

The service is offered in a relaxed, confdential and informal setting.

The MHERV nurse conducts the tests and

discusses any health concerns in the privacy of the consulting rooms within the van. The consultation takes 10 minutes and provides

immediate results.

MHERV screenings have saved lives and improved health outcomes for many men and women throughout

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.

NSW.

Why not take the opportunity for a quick non-invasive check-up. Just a 10-minute investment of time can save your life or the life of someone you love. This FREE service will be available for walk-in’s for Men and Women on the following dates:

• Friday 27th

Septemberfull-day clinic (9:30am – 4:15pm) and

• Saturday 28th September - full-day clinic (9:30am – 4:45pm) Venue: Richmond River end of Moon Street in Fawcett Park, Ballina

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! Ph 0407 663 017 - Email squaredance053@gmail.com Parking & Entrance rear of the hall from Hampton Street

WILLIAMSON URGES NSW LABOR GOVERNMENT TO FIX DRIVER TESTING SHORTAGES IN LOWER CLARENCE

Clarence Nationals

MP Richie Williamson has called on the NSW Labor Government to urgently address the ongoing shortage of driver testing availability at the Maclean Service Centre, which is leaving local communities in the Lower Clarence region without access to essential driving assessments.

Mr Williamson previously raised the issue with the Minister for Customer Service, Jihad Dib, in May this year on behalf of a local driving school and parents whose teenage children seeking to sit for their P-plate test were experiencing lengthy delays.

“At the time, it was acknowledged there were shortages, but I was assured that both short and long-term solutions were being developed to increase testing availability for Maclean and surrounding communities. In the meantime, a driver tester from the Grafton Service Centre was meant to make regular trips to Maclean to provide additional appointments,” Mr Williamson said.

“It appears the problem has not been resolved, with ongoing complaints from driving instructors and parents about the lack of available testing slots.”

“The situation has not improved, and this

is having a signifcant impact on people in our region, especially young drivers and elderly residents required to undergo an age-based driving test,” he added.

“I have heard from local driving instructors and community members who are unable to book a driving test in Maclean for the remainder of the year, forcing them to travel to Grafton or even further afeld. This is unacceptable for a community of nearly 17,000 people.”

Despite temporary measures, such as bringing in testers from Grafton, Mr Williamson said the Government must fnd long-term staffng solutions to ensure Lower Clarence residents have access to the services they need.

“It’s not reasonable to expect people to travel a 95-kilometre round trip

Diary of a Flood Survivor

It was a bittersweet day last week in the Elley household when we fnally bit the bullet and had our food-damaged pool removed.

The pool was over 14 years old and was the scene for so many family memories.

From endless games of piggy-in-themiddle, brandings, Marco Polo, to diving and underwater competitions and whirlpools.

Being able to invite hordes of the kids’ friends around for pool parties on birthdays and have family gatherings at Christmas or just for a barbeque.

just to take a driving test. The Government must do better,” he added.

“The lack of adequate testing in Maclean is another example of how regional NSW is being neglected under the Minns Labor Government. This issue needs immediate attention.”

Mr Williamson called on the Government to prioritise driver testing availability for Lower Clarence communities and ensure that the Maclean Service Centre is properly staffed to meet local demand.

“I will be raising this issue in the NSW Parliament this week, urging the NSW Government to fnd a permanent solution for this unacceptable lack of service to the Lower Clarence community,” he said.

Those unbearable summer days where we alternated between a cooling dip, to drying out with a good book only to go back in the water again when the temperature continued to be high.

We certainly felt the lack of that ability to cool down over the last couple of summers.

We will feel it again this summer, I have no doubt.

Now, where we had a water view, there is only a very large patch of sand and rock.

But we have plans.

We want to become the equivalent of Dirtgirl and Scrapboy and start a whopping big vege garden.

Mind you, the three little patches of veges we have at the moment

Before

After

haven’t had much love recently, but that will change as we design our bigger and better green space. We hope.

Regardless of what happens next, removing the pool is an extra step away from the damage we experienced on 28 February, 2022.

as well. We still have so much to do, but each small project that is completed provides a proportional feeling of accomplishment. Little steps.

Shout out to Mister Shifter Removals for a job well done,

Clarence National MP Richie Williamson

Byron Shire Becomes First NSW Community to Enforce 60-Day Cap on Holiday Lets

As of the 23rd September, Byron Shire has become the frst community in New South Wales to introduce legally enforceable measures regulating short-term holiday accommodation, marking a signifcant milestone in the region’s decade-long battle to tackle housing shortages. After years of campaigning, the Shire has offcially implemented a 60-day cap on un-hosted short-term rental accommodation (STRA) in most parts of the area, in an effort to balance tourism demand with the critical need for longterm housing.

Tamara Smith, MP for Ballina, who has been a driving force behind this initiative, hailed the cap as a much-needed tool to help reclaim housing for permanent residents.

“Since 2015, we have worked tirelessly with the community to have the power to rein in unfettered holiday letting in Byron Shire,” Smith said.

At the height of the STRA surge, entire homes in the Shire were being listed on holiday rental platforms, severely limiting the availability of long-term rentals for residents.

“At peak times, we have seen thousands of whole homes on holiday sites while permanent residents have had no rentals available,” Smith explained, underscoring the strain this has placed on the local community.

Aiming to Relieve the Housing Crisis

The new 60-day cap,

which applies to nonhosted STRA lodgings, is designed to ease this burden by encouraging property owners to move more homes back into the long-term rental market. “This cap should see the transfer of some of those properties to the long-term rental market and cannot kick in soon enough,” said Smith. By limiting the number of days a property can be rented out as a holiday let, the Shire hopes to increase the supply of rental properties available for permanent residents. However, Smith warned that larger corporations and STRA platforms may push back against this change, viewing it as a threat to their interests. “Let’s be clear – the big corps will want this unique trial for our community to fail,” she cautioned. In response, the local government is working closely with residents to promote the positive impacts the cap is expected to generate.

“We are working closely with the community to amplify the good news stories that we expect to emerge from this new power our community now has,” Smith added.

A Community-Driven Effort

Byron Shire, known for its popularity as a coastal holiday destination, has also faced signifcant challenges in recent years, including devastating fres and foods. Smith highlighted the resilience of the community in the face of these disasters, noting that the introduction

of the cap represents another crucial step in rebuilding and strengthening the region.

“As a community, we have faced fres and foods with incredible resilience, and there is palpable relief to have what I hope will be an effective piece of the puzzle toward alleviating the housing crisis in Byron Shire,” she said. Despite expectations that rents in Byron Shire will remain relatively high, Smith is optimistic that increasing the supply of available homes for long-term rental will gradually help stabilise costs. “We know that rents in Byron Shire will be high, but supply over the long term will make a difference to both cost and availability,” she explained.

Exemptions and Future Implications

The 60-day cap will apply across the majority of Byron Shire, with two exceptions: specifc precincts in Byron Bay and Brunswick Heads. These areas, which are particularly popular with tourists, have been excluded from the cap for the time being.

Smith hopes that Byron Shire’s lead in introducing these measures will inspire other communities across NSW to follow suit, especially as the state grapples with a broader rental crisis.

“NSW is in a rental crisis, and it is my hope that Byron Shire will lead by example in the re-establishment of community amenity and the prioritisation of

homes for permanent residents,” Smith said. Monitoring and Future Adaptations

While the cap represents a signifcant step forward, Smith emphasised that it is only the beginning of the process. The MP confrmed that she will be closely monitoring the implementation of the 60-day cap and its impact on both the local housing market and the operations of STRA companies.

“It is important to see what works and what doesn’t as we move forward,” Smith said. She believes the success of the Byron Shire model could pave the way for other communities across the state to take control of STRA when investor activity starts to negatively impact housing availability and community cohesion.

“Our model can set the path toward all communities in NSW having the power to rein in STRA when the balance tips too far towards property investors and big corporations, away from residential amenity and housing availability for permanent residents,” she concluded.

A Critical First Step

As Byron Shire takes this bold step towards alleviating its housing crisis, it marks a signifcant moment not just for the region, but potentially for all of New South Wales. The introduction of the 60-day cap on short-term holiday rentals is seen as a crucial experiment,

with the rest of the state watching closely to see how this pioneering policy will impact the housing market and community well-being in one of Australia’s most sought-after regions. How will it be enforced?

The enforcement of the 60-day cap on un-hosted short-term rental accommodation (STRA) in Byron Shire will be managed through a combination of local government oversight, monitoring systems, and penalties for noncompliance.

Key Enforcement Measures:

1. Registration and Tracking: Property owners who wish to offer short-term rentals must register their properties with the NSW Government’s short-term rental accommodation register. This central database helps local authorities monitor the number of days a property is rented out annually. The registration system allows for accurate tracking to ensure that un-hosted properties do not exceed the 60-day cap.

2. Data Sharing from STRA Platforms: Major STRA platforms like Airbnb and Stayz will be required to share data with local councils and the state government. These platforms track booking information, making it easier to verify how many days a property has been rented. This collaboration ensures that authorities have access to real-time data and can identify

potential breaches of the cap.

3. Fines and Penalties: Property owners who fail to comply with the 60day limit face fnancial penalties. If a property exceeds the cap, local councils can issue fnes and other enforcement measures. While specifc fne amounts may vary, non-compliance could result in signifcant penalties to deter violations.

4. Community Reporting: The local community plays an important role in enforcing the cap. Residents can report properties they suspect of violating the 60-day limit, providing another layer of oversight. These reports can be submitted directly to the council for investigation.

5. Random Audits and Inspections: To ensure compliance, the local council may conduct random audits or inspections of STRA properties. These audits can include reviewing booking records, STRA platform listings, and other relevant documentation.

6. Education and Awareness: In the early stages of implementation, there will likely be an emphasis on educating property owners about the new regulations and the importance of compliance. This will help ensure that landlords understand the rules and avoid accidental breaches of the 60-day cap.

Mobile Blackspot Program Community Consultation

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts (DITRDCA) has engaged Grosvenor to conduct an independent evaluation of the Mobile Black Spot Program. This program, launched in 2015 following the 2011-12 Regional Telecommunications Review, aims to address

the critical need to extend mobile coverage in regional Australia. Through the Mobile Black Spot Program, grant funding is provided to Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Mobile Network Infrastructure Providers (MNIPs) to enhance telecommunications services across underserved areas.

Since its inception, the program has supported the construction of approximately 1,400 base stations across eight funding rounds, with a federal government investment of $395 million, contributing to over $1 billion in total investments from federal, state, and local governments. Evaluation Objectives

This evaluation will assess the effectiveness, suitability, and outcomes of the Mobile Black Spot Program, measuring its success in meeting its short- and medium-term objectives. The fndings will help guide future program development and policy enhancements. Community Consultation

A critical part of the

evaluation process involves gathering feedback from stakeholders, including residents and businesses in communities where program-funded mobile coverage improvements have been completed. The consultation includes an online survey, designed to capture community experiences and insights regarding the enhanced

mobile services. To participate in the survey and contribute to the evaluation, you can access the survey via the QR code provided.

Everyone is invited to the CONVERGE Open Day

Step into the heart of Lismore’s creative scene at the CONVERGE Open Day on Saturday, 28 September 2024, and meet the artists bringing this vibrant residency space to life!

CONVERGE is a temporary artist-in-residence and professional development program, transforming a prominent vacant space in the CBD into a thriving hub of creativity, community connection, and cultural revival. As part of Lismore’s disaster recovery initiative, CONVERGE aims to reignite the city as a cultural hub, highlighting its unique character and supporting its worldclass creative industry. For the past three months, CONVERGE has breathed new life into the CBD with its burst of colour, textures, and artistic exploration. Now, you’re invited to immerse yourself

in this energetic space and connect with local creators during the CONVERGE Studio Open Day.

What to Expect

• Time: 10am to 3pm

• Date: Saturday, 28 September 2024

• Location: 123 Woodlark St, Lismore Join 11 talented local artists as they open their studios for a behind-thescenes experience. Meet the makers, explore the creative process, and enjoy live performances, installations, and art in action.

Featured activities include:

• Paul Walker performing Dance and Draw

• Adrienne Kenafake presenting her latest performance piece, fresh from the Cementa Festival

• Chris Lego showcasing his screenprinting skills while spinning tunes

• Matt O’Brien offering

a hands-on experience with mud mixing

• Antoinette O’Brien leading a clay play session

• Michelle Gilroy celebrating subtle textures in her work

• Karenza Ebejer sharing her digital dreaming as a flmmaker

• Stefanie Mirkilis creating vibrant mosaics

This Open Day is part of a broader weekend of cultural events, including the much-anticipated reopening of the Lismore Regional Gallery on Friday, 26 September 2024.

About CONVERGE

Located between Woodlark Street and Larkin Lane, CONVERGE sits at the core of Lismore’s “arts block,” nestled alongside the Lismore Regional Gallery, The Quad, Northern Rivers Conservatorium, Elevator ARI, and the brand-new Tinnie Army Mural on Larkin Lane.

This initiative is led by Lismore City Council and funded by the NSW Reconstruction Authority to support the arts sector in its recovery following the devastating foods of 2022.

Support and Celebrate Lismore’s Artistic Community Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn praised the program, saying, “It’s exciting to see the results of CONVERGE. It’s important to support the artistic community in their food recovery and watch them fourish again.”

Don’t Miss Out! Come and be part of this celebration of art, creativity, and community at CONVERGE.

CONVERGE Studio Open Day

• Date: Saturday, 28 September 2024

• Time: 10am to 3pm

• Location: 123 Woodlark St, Lismore See you there!

Byron Shire Council Steps Up Fight Against Litter with EPA Grant

Byron Shire Council is pleased to announce it has secured a $420,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Environment Protection Authority (EPA). This funding, part of the EPA’s Litter Prevention Grants program, will be instrumental in combating litter across the Shire.

This timely boost comes as the Council begins rolling out its newly developed Litter and Illegal Dumping Prevention Strategy, which aims to foster long-term behavioural change among residents, businesses, and visitors over the next fve years.

Jordyn de Boer, from the Council’s Resource Recovery team, highlighted the signifcance of the grant, noting that Byron Shire is one of just 16 councils across NSW to receive this funding.

“This grant will enable us to fully implement the litter management component of our Litter and Illegal Dumping Prevention Strategy, which is fantastic news for both the Council and the broader community,” Ms. de Boer said.

“Litter costs the Shire approximately $1.45 million annually. It places a signifcant fnancial burden on ratepayers, while also posing health risks and

endangering our local wildlife and natural environment.”

A recent EPA litter study revealed that plastic items, particularly takeaway food and beverage packaging, constitute 81% of litter in NSW.

Byron Shire Council’s own litter monitoring efforts over the past fve years identifed balloons, party decorations, fshing waste, and cigarette butts as additional key contributors to the litter problem.

The Council’s strategy specifcally targets these problem items through initiatives like the Balloon-Free Byron Shire campaign, Source to Sea program, and partnerships with local businesses aimed at reducing waste at the source. Ensuring proper waste management practices will also be a central focus of the effort.

Additionally, the strategy includes the installation of infrastructure designed to support a circular economy, reinforcing the Council’s commitment to sustainable waste management.

For more information on the Council’s litter and illegal dumping prevention efforts, visit the Byron Shire Council website.

Ballina Shire residents can now take advantage of the Council’s new Reusable Products Rebate, offering up to 50% off the purchase price of reusable nappies, period products, and continence management items. This initiative is designed to help residents make more sustainable choices, reducing both the environmental and economic impacts of disposable hygiene products.

The rebate is part of the Council’s ongoing effort to address waste management, recognizing that disposable nappies, period products, and continence items are a signifcant contributor to household landfll.

According to Justine Rowe, Resource Recovery Education Offcer, these products are the fourth largest waste stream by weight in household bins across

Ballina Shire Council Introduces Reusable Products Rebate for Residents

Ballina Shire. “Every day, people of all ages use these essential hygiene products. By switching to reusable alternatives, residents can make a real

allocated for the initiative. Importantly, this funding is independent of rates income, reinforcing the Council’s commitment to sustainability without

• Disposable nappies can take up to 500 years to break down.

• The average child uses around 1,825 disposable nappies annually, costing

products, families can signifcantly reduce waste. If 100 families participate in the rebate program, over 180,000 nappies could be diverted from landfll

difference not only for the environment but also for their own health,” said Ms. Rowe. The Reusable Products Rebate is funded by the Council’s 2024/25 Resource Recovery budget, with $10,000

increasing fnancial burdens on residents. Why Make the Switch? Disposable hygiene products are not only resource-intensive to produce but also take centuries to decompose in landflls. For example:

families about $3,500 per year, compared to $500-$1,500 for reusable alternatives.

• Reusable period and continence products offer even greater long-term savings.

By opting for reusable

annually. Similar waste reductions can be achieved with reusable period and continence products, which are often used over longer periods than nappies.

“I switched to reusable period products two

years ago and wish I’d done it sooner,” Ms. Rowe shared. “On average, Australians who menstruate spend $10,000 over their lifetime on period products. By making the switch, I’m saving money and using natural fbres instead of plastics, which feels much better.”

Rebate Details: Ballina Shire residents can apply for rebates of 50% of the purchase price on the following products:

• Reusable nappies: Up to $150 per household

• Reusable period products: Up to $100 per household

• Reusable continence management products: Up to $100 per household

To apply, residents must provide proof of purchase and proof of residency within Ballina Shire by completing an online form available on the Council’s website. For more information and to apply, visit Ballina Shire Council’s Reusable Products Rebate page.

Byron Bay Film Festival Celebrates Aussie Surfng History

ROBERT HEYWARD

Surfng, which captivated Australia’s youth in the 1960s, became a cultural movement for teenagers seeking freedom from the restrictive norms of post-war life. This exhilarating lifestyle, centred on the surf culture of the east coast, is captured in

You Should Have Been Here Yesterday, a documentary that will be featured at the Byron Bay Film Festival this October.

Directed by Jolyon Hoff, a flmmaker known for his acclaimed work Searching for Michael Peterson, this documentary is a nostalgic journey

through the rise of surfng in Australia, drawing from hours of archival footage. Hoff’s creation taps into his Surf Film Archive, featuring 8mm and 16mm reels from the 1960s, including content from legends such as Ma and Pa Bendall, Bob Evans, and Midget Farrelly, among others. The flm showcases early surfng legends and pioneers, bringing to life the era when surfng was more a way of life than a sport, and the cultural revolution it inspired. You Should Have Been Here Yesterday goes beyond celebrating surfng’s thrill. It explores the challenges of female surfers, notably Marjorie ‘Ma’ Bendall, who broke barriers in her 50s. The documentary also dives into the dark side of the surfng era, discussing

the infuence of drugs and commercialization on the sport, while highlighting the creative passion that emerged in board-shaping and surf flmmaking.

The flm promises a visual feast of historic surfng cinematography,

backed by a powerful soundtrack from Headland, an Australian music collective led by Murray Paterson. It is a must-watch for surf enthusiasts and those who appreciate the cultural impact of surfng on Australian society.

Also featured at the festival is Aquarius, directed by Byron Bay flmmaker Wendy Champagne. The documentary explores the 1973 Aquarius Festival, which helped transform Nimbin into a vibrant community known for its activism and counterculture, mirroring the surf culture’s spirit of rebellion and free thinking.

Both flms highlight the Northern Rivers region’s historical role in shaping alternative lifestyles and thinking, making the 18th Byron Bay Film Festival a celebration of surf culture, activism, and the region’s unique place in Australian history. The festival runs from October 18-27 at Byron Palace Cinemas and other venues. For more details, visit www. bbff.com.au.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Director Jolyon Hoff with Film Reels. Photo Credit Ella Burton

“Leemo has views on just about anything” AT TIMES JUST USE IMAGINATION

It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ back. My buddies are here at my house working on our Strategic Plan (SP) for ‘Mum Jane’ so she’ll help us become Feline In uencers & make lots of $ for Christmas. I’m concerned, however, regarding the undercurrent of grumbles emanating from the group. Hmmm?

A paw vote was called for. An enthusiastic & unanimous rising of 2 PAWS EACH from all con rmed this SP stu is absolute bunkum; it’s too di cult & we’re not doing it; Eeek! What about our Christmas money? I had to address this urgently. ‘OK buddies, we’ll chuck out the idea of being In uencers but we’ll consider other ideas for money raising. ‘Scarlet’, who is new to our buddie group, tentatively raised a paw; I gave permission for her to speak by banging my gavel. ‘Well, you ALL know there’s a show called ‘Hard Quiz’ for adults & one for Kids. Why don’t we hold a Hard Quiz to test how much humans REALLY know about Felines?

We’ll call it ‘ e Feline Super Quiz’ Challenge and o er a cash prize of our combined savings. We have $147.87 in our kitty..we’ll round it o to $150.’ Paw claps. ere was then much debate. ‘Brutus’ spoke up. ‘But how will we actually MAKE money from this idea might I ask?’ ‘Scarlet’ responded patiently (in that kinda condescending tone that only girls use!) ‘Brutus, we will charge $6.50 per entry. I estimate we’ll ‘probly get hundreds of applicants

vying for the prize pot! So, say we get 300 entries. We’ll earn $1950, minus our kitty $, leaving us with $1802.13 pro t. Gottit?’ (‘Brutus’ looked sheepishly peeved!) But, how clever was ‘Scarlet’? Loud paw applause rang out. I took control. ‘OK, let’s test this out. We need 10 questions to ask. Each of you may submit some. Let’s start. A er some fang bearing, arguing, tail swishing, growls & hissy stu , we had a nal list. Here it is: Name the Cat in a movie with Audrey Hepburn? How many toes IN TOTAL do cats have? Did Tarzan have a house cat in his jungle home? What other animals walk like cats do? How wide are a cat’s whiskers? How old WAS the oldest recorded cat? Who invented the Cat Door? Do cats know their owners? Name of the cat le $26 million by his owner? Can Cats drink seawater? Whoohoo! I banged the gavel loudly. ‘YIPPEE, we’ve reached 10 questions! We are on a roll for our Christmas spending.’ ere was much jubilation & purring. UNTIL, ‘Flu y Bum’ spoke in a very sombre tone. Errrrrm, I have a couple of questions to ask.’ I jubilantly gave an OK to proceed. ‘Leemo, where will we hold this ‘Feline Super Quiz’ thingie? How do we advertise? Who’ll collect the entry fees? Will we be on TV? Who will arrange this? Do we need a Licence & where do we get it? OMG, an air of sombreness wa ed over us at the same time Mum walked in calling cheerily ‘Howdy you lot? How’s your ‘SP’ going? Is it ready?’ OOOOH! We had to ‘fess up to the harsh truth of our dreams of making $ being zero! Mum listened intently. She pondered at bit then said: “Well, I reckon that in life, ‘Imagination is our last Sanctuary’ from the mundane, and I think you all have it in spades! I’m giving you all $2 each toward your Christmas loot, making you treats NOW and putting ‘Bluey’ on for you. Whaddya reckon? Well, nitey now with very contented purrsies from Leemo & Buddies.

Council Issues ‘Buyer Beware’ Notice: Choose a Licensed and Insured Surf School

a licensed surf school:

Byron Shire Council is warning locals and visitors to be cautious when booking surf lessons due to the presence of unlicensed surf schools operating in the area. Council has received complaints about some unapproved operators running surf schools without proper licensing.

Malcolm Robertson, Council’s Acting Director of Infrastructure Services, emphasized the importance of choosing

“Council and the NSW Government oversee what happens on the beach and in the water. Our role is to manage beach activities, including licensing surf schools that use public beaches for their business. A licence is a way of assuring customers that an operator is both approved and safe.”

The licensing system benefts the community by ensuring surf schools follow safety guidelines, operate ethically, and provide quality services. Licensed operators

also help manage beach space, ensuring there’s enough room for both businesses and the public. The fees paid by licensed surf schools are reinvested by the Council into public services for the community.

Mr. Robertson encourages customers to only book lessons with licensed schools to help maintain the integrity of the system: “Using a school that does the right thing supports the community and helps protect our beautiful beaches.”

To ensure you’re

booking with a licensed operator, refer to the list of surf schools approved by Byron Shire Council:

• Byron Bay Surf School Pty Ltd.

• Let’s Go Surfng

• Blackdog Surfng Pty Ltd.

• Style Surfng School Byron Bay

• Rusty Miller Personalised Surfng Byron Bay

• Soul Surfng School Pty Ltd.

For more information or to verify a surf school’s licence, contact Byron Shire Council directly.

A Connect You Too Rio Carnival

Connect You Too, the Clarence Valley’s community transport and meal delivery provider welcomed customers, visitors and their family and friends to our offces at 134 Jubilee Street, Townsend on Wednesday 18th September for our Rio Carnival and open day expo.

The sun was shining, and our Rio Carnival day was a great success. We had displays from The Men’s and Women’s Sheds, Each Connect, Services Australia, Clarence Valley Library, Clarence Valley Seniors Computer Club, whilst HART Services had a stand explaining their local home care packages and Priceline Yamba offered blood pressure checks and jellybean flled webster packs.

Our new Hyundai Staria with the rear ramp and electric car Atto were on display. Many enjoyed giveaways and music, while meeting our team, and delighting in our free morning tea treats and BBQ. Visitors got to taste our meal samples from Clarence Meal’s new suppliers – Gourmet

Meals, Lite n’ Easy and Meals On Wheels Grafton, with many going home with their bellies full.

We would like to acknowledge the following local businesses for their support, discounts and donations towards our Rio Carnival open day: Maclean Hot Bread; Maclean Variety Meats; Coles Grafton; Grafton Hire; Stanfords Pharmacy; Heart of Space; Pure Hair Yamba; Maclean Newsagency; C’est La Vie Francaise;

Maclean Flower Box; Maclean Hotel; Hooked on Seafood; The Leaf Hub; Margot & Co; Advantage Pharmacy; Ammo Hair & Beauty; BWS Maclean; Botero Maclean; Penny’s Sweet Tooth; Ta’Chele Australis; NewsXpress Yamba; Kane’s Sport & Leisure; Flourish Educational Toys; Shoes @ Carney’s Arcade; Sanctus Brewing Co; Yamba Communications; K Hub Yamba; T’s Hair; The Greenhouse Collective; Nicole’s Hair & Co.; River Café;

Blueberries Smoothie & Health Bar; Dune’s Café and Clovelly Fashions. We had over $740 worth of raffes prizes donated with the following lucky people winning a prize – Shirley Wright; Josie Robertson; Kathy Page; Loretta Essex; Lorraine Want; Margaret Van Edmond; Edward Heaslet; Dot Drinan. Several lucky door prizes were handed out on the day. Connect You Too appreciates everyone’s support. We look forward to holding another great open day next year.

We had 93 colouring competition entries in four categories. The colourful artworks helped decorate our displays. Thank you to all the children and over 65 year olds that entered. Congratulations to the winning entrants – Annabelle Bowen; Kai McCombie; Sophie McNeilly and Jim Ditton.

If you need help with transport or meals, call Connect You Too at Townsend on 6645 3200 to see if you qualify for any subsidies or assistance.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Tabulam CupRaces

GRAB YOUR TICKETS HERE!

Samantha’s Book

Lismore Welcomes 10 New Australian Citizens

From privilege to powerful living

Title: Taking Flight

Author: A.G. Charlton

Price: $32.95

Publisher: New Found

Books By Samantha

Elley

Syline is no ordinary privileged young woman, the progeny of the nation’s greatest general and a famous duellist.

While her parents and siblings are all warriors who know how to use a blade, Syline couldn’t care less.

Her passion is for magic and adventure where one day she will become a famous mage, regardless of all her duel and sword lessons.

However, when life takes a strange turn and she is faced with the

Lismore City

Mayor Steve Krieg and Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan welcomed 10 new citizens at an Australian Citizenship Ceremony held at the Council Chambers. The new citizens, hailing from countries including Belgium, Canada, China, Israel, Malaysia, New Zealand, and the Philippines, are now

settling in various local areas such as Corndale, Dunoon, Goonellabah, Larnook, Lismore, Nimbin, and Rosebank.

Mayor Krieg expressed his pride in participating in the ceremony, noting the signifcance of welcoming new citizens to the Australian community. “One of the best parts of my job is to warmly welcome

new Australian citizens who are now part of the common bond that unites all Australians and respects diversity,” he said. “Congratulations and welcome to our new citizens. Australia is one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world, and since 1949, we have welcomed more than fve million new citizens to our shores.”

The Lismore City Council, representing the Department of Home Affairs, organizes regular citizenship ceremonies to welcome new Australians and foster a sense of community and belonging.

For more information about Australian citizenship, visit citizenship.gov.au.

Salvage Shed’s Recycled Art Competition Now Open!

power of an evil mage, she is forced to escape from the city to save her own life.

She fnds herself out on her own, having to live by her wits and without the comforts of her cushioned life.

On her travels she teams up with Thelonious, a hellblooded, who becomes her bodyguard and together they battle the plans of the evil mage who is threatening her family.

Syline, herself, soon becomes adept with the magic she always wanted to learn, but will it be enough?

Based in Perth, author A.G. Charlton loves all things fantasy. He is a Dungeons & Dragons fanatic and is willing to show anyone why living in a fantasy world is a must.

You can order your copy of Taking Flight from newfoundbooks. au

The Salvage Shed and Ballina Shire Council are teaming up once again to host the Recycled Art Competition, inviting the community to transform discarded materials into creative works of art. The competition not only encourages upcycling and reuse but also supports Momentum Collective, a local notfor-proft organization.

The Salvage Shed has made a signifcant impact by diverting over 306 tonnes of quality items from landfll in the last fnancial year. This year’s competition offers two exciting design categories: ‘letterbox’ and ‘backyard animal habitat’. Participants are

encouraged to use their imagination and recycled materials to create functional items, such as dog kennels, bird baths, or insect hotels.

“We are so excited to have two design categories this year, enabling the community to use their imagination to create useful items from recycled and repurposed materials,” said Leading Hand Jen Evans. The competition aims to highlight the value of repurposing materials that might otherwise end up in landfll.

Justine Rowe, Council’s Resource Recovery Education Offcer, emphasized

the importance of normalizing upcycling and reuse: “This competition shows how ‘waste’ can be transformed into something creative and functional.”

The competition is open to artists, hobbyists, young people, community groups, and schools, with four prize categories:

• Group (3+ people): $150

• Open Award: $150

• 12 – 18 Years Award: $100

• Under 12 Years Award: $50

Entries close on Saturday 26 October 2024, and all entries

will be exhibited at the Salvage Shed on Saturday 16 November, where winners and a People’s Choice Award will be announced.

For more details and entry forms, visit the QR code below, or head to the Salvage Shed at 167 Southern Cross Drive, Ballina.

The Salvage Shed is open daily from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM and can be contacted at 0429 934 557.

Today,

Help Shape the Future of Murwillumbah’s CBD: Community Input Needed

Business Murwillumbah, also known as the Murwillumbah & District Business Chamber, is calling for community involvement to plan the future of the town’s central business district (CBD). With support from Tweed Shire Council, the Chamber has secured a $316,666 grant through the NSW Government’s Community Improvement District (CID) Pilot Program, aimed at revitalizing local economies and business hubs across the State.

The program fosters business-led partnerships to enhance local trading environments, encouraging residents to shop, dine, and enjoy activities within their neighbourhoods. The goal is to create vibrant, foot-traffc-friendly spaces that beneft both businesses and the wider community.

Business

Murwillumbah Treasurer

Phillip Hepburn described this as an exciting opportunity for locals to contribute to the

future of the town.

“This CID Pilot project presents an incredible chance for Murwillumbah’s CBD to thrive. It allows us to bring new ideas to life that will beneft the community and local businesses alike,”

Hepburn said. “This is about reimagining how we engage with our town centre, both during the day and at night, and

building a sustainable future for our CBD.”

With input from local businesses, schools, and community groups, the project will focus on revitalizing key areas, including Murwillumbah Street, Proudfoots Lane, and Wollumbin Street.

Public feedback is essential for developing a plan that refects the needs and values of the community.

Tweed Shire Council’s Program Leader for Destination and Industry Development, Nicole Manderson, praised the initiative. “It’s fantastic to see business leaders in Murwillumbah committed to better activating the CBD, and we are working closely to support their efforts,” Manderson said.

Get Involved: Residents can contribute ideas

and feedback through a variety of channels:

• Online Survey: Share your thoughts by completing the survey by Monday, 7 October 2024.

• Pop-up Stalls: Visit stalls at Sunnyside Mall, Murwillumbah Farmers Market, or Murwillumbah Street between Tuesday, 24 September, and Thursday, 26 September 2024.

• Free ‘Walkshops’: Dive deeper into the town’s spaces and share improvement ideas during scheduled walkshops on the same dates.

For more information or to participate, visit yoursaytweed.com.au/ murwillumbah-cbd.

New volunteer opportunities at Grafton Base Hospital

Grafton Base Hospital has new opportunities for community members to join the volunteering program, where they can provide comfort and social support to patients during their hospital stay.

Following the success of the initial rollout of the new Healthcare Helper Volunteer Program across health facilities in Clarence

Valley, Grafton Base Hospital has now opened up new roles in additional departments.

Clarence Health Service General Manager, Dan Madden said staff really welcome and value volunteers’ contribution to the hospital.

“We have been very pleased with the frst cohort of volunteers and

are encouraging more people from all walks of life to join us as Healthcare Helpers,” Mr Madden said.

“We are keen for the new volunteers at Grafton Base Hospital to refect the diversity found within our broader community to ensure all patients feel comfortable and supported.

“We have several new

patient companion roles now available in our oncology, renal, surgical, and medical wards.”

Volunteer at Maclean District Hospital, Ellie Walsh said she fnds giving assistance to both patients and staff rewarding.

“Having the opportunity to help hard-working staff, while supporting

patients during their stay and recuperation is a privilege,” Ms Walsh said.

“Seeing a patient smile in recognition, to laugh with them, to listen to their stories and help time pass more quickly, enriches my life.”

More information can be found online at www. nnswlhd.health.nsw. gov.au/get-involved/

volunteering Volunteer enquiries about Grafton Base Hospital can be directed to the General Manager’s offce via email: nnswlhd-volunteer@ health.nsw.gov.au or Phone: 02 6643 0355.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Johnny Francos owner Adam Housen, Business Murwillumbah

Treasurer Phillip Hepburn and Council’s Business Development Offcer Vanessa Rose are excited about plans to activate the Murwillumbah CBD.

Photo courtesy of The Royal Childrens Hospital Melbourne.

IN about a fortnight’s time, this year’s Nobel Peace Prize will be announced, adding another name to the illustrious list of reformers and regalminded individuals that have changed the world, since it was first awarded in 1901.

With all things buffoonishly American billowing into our awareness at the moment, thanks to their national election that seems a wacky cross between absurdism and Postmodernism somehow turned on its head. It got me thinking about a genuinely impressive, and yet often overlooked winner of the world’s most prestigious award – Theodore Roosevelt.

The first recipient from America of a Nobel Peace Prize (in 1906) was their President, avid reader and conservationist, Theodore Roosevelt.

Larger than life (not only in death, as his visage is one of the four exPresidents to be featured on Mount Rushmore), Roosevelt lived a life that was in so many ways unprecedented.

From losing his first wife and mother on the same day in the same house (to different causes) in 1884; to reading 3-4 books every day of his adult life (even during his Presidency from 1901-09).

A reformer and reflective activist in every sense, Roosevelt doubled the total of National Parks in the USA during his Presidency; he also put into practice elements of an active life that he openly encouraged. Several times a week he used to box (he continued to spar even while he was President until he was clobbered that hard in 1908 it left him blinded in one eye). Roosevelt was clearly

NSW Government Introduces Support Package for Music Festivals

Key Amendments to the Music Festivals Act:

not just an ‘all talk’ merchant, but someone who backed his yap with definitive actions.

Thumb through some of his recorded thoughts, and similarities to Winston Churchill – at his finest, come to mind. Unfortunately for many populaces over the centuries our leaders have been largely monosyllabic imposters that couldn’t think or inspire on their feet, if their lives depended on it. Not Roosevelt, his wordcraft (thanks to his prodigious penchant for reading) was second to none. The ultimate test of which, is how a person’s impression ‘stands up’ long after they’re gone.

To be an example, albeit inspiration to other generations beyond your own (for all the right reasons) is one of the rarest attributes of anyone, let alone someone who was known as a head of state. Fittingly Roosevelt once rather prophetically noted, “We should not forget that it will be just as important to our descendants to be prosperous in their time as it is to us to be prosperous in our time.”

With a care and consideration for his fellow human beings that bordered on the paternal, Roosevelt seemed compelled to lift and inspire others, as opposed to putting them down for his own immediate gain. Like a real-life national treasure, he once enthused, “I am only an average man, but by George, I work harder at it than the average person… [So just] start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can…Be practical as well as generous in your ideals. Keep your eyes on the stars, but remember to keep your feet on the ground.”

The NSW Government has announced a comprehensive relief package to support struggling music festivals, aimed at addressing rising costs and improving the sustainability of the sector. The package follows the government’s commitment to review the Music Festivals Act, which identifed the need for a stronger focus on harm reduction, industry sustainability, and more balanced costs for festivals in NSW compared to other states.

As part of the reforms, the government has allocated an initial $3 million for emergency funding assistance to help music festivals navigate fnancial pressures. Over the next two years, music festivals will beneft from fnancial aid and broader sector reforms designed to ease the challenges that have contributed to numerous event cancellations in recent years.

In addition, the government will introduce amendments to the Music Festivals Act aimed at improving the regulatory framework for festivals, with changes set to be in place before the upcoming summer festival season. These amendments will prioritize the health and safety of festival-goers while also focusing on the economic sustainability of NSW’s festival scene.

• Explicit objectives focused on government support for the festival sector.

• Removal of the ‘subject’ festival designation from the Act.

• Requirement for all festivals to have a Health and Medical Plan, with festivals that have had previous incidents needing to agree on their plan with NSW Health.

• Liquor & Gaming NSW will become the main decision-maker, with advice from NSW Health and NSW Police.

The Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority will remain involved in appeals regarding health and medical plans.

• Appeal rights for festivals on costs and conditions, with a cross-government panel established to handle appeals if a festival’s economic viability is under threat.

• NSW Police will continue to have a

role in recommending safety and enforcement measures for festivals where necessary.

The government has also introduced a two-year Contemporary Music Festival Viability Fund to enhance the short-term viability of major contemporary music festivals. The fund, established by Sound NSW, will offer up to $500,000 per festival for largescale events with a capacity of 15,000 or more. This fund will address fnancial pressures brought on by factors like rising costs, infation, and currency exchange rates.

Applications will be open from September 2024 to June 2026 on a needs basis.

Statements from Key Ministers John Graham, Minister for Music and the Night-Time Economy, acknowledged the struggles facing the festival sector, stating:

“NSW has had a strong music festival sector, but it has been under intense pressure. We have seen the chickens come home to roost after years of pressure, with major festivals failing. Festivals are an important place for music fans to experience the music they love together and form connections with artists and their community.”

He added, “We made a commitment to review the Music Festivals Act, and now that review is complete, we are introducing these reforms to strengthen our support for these vital live music events.”

Ryan Park, Minister for Health, emphasized the importance of safety, saying:

“We want people to be able to enjoy festivals safely. These reforms will ensure that health and safety become even more of a central focus in event planning. NSW Health continues to work closely with music festivals to implement harm reduction measures, including deploying NSW Ambulance personnel, peer-based harm reduction service providers, private medical providers onsite, as well as running awareness campaigns.”

The NSW Government’s reforms aim to revitalize the music festival sector, making it safer and more economically viable while promoting a thriving live music culture across the state.

Screaming out for peace… by Nigel Dawe

ROBERT HEYWARD

ORGANISATIONS

Life-saving defbrillators available for sports facilities: Saffn

responsible for sports facilities across the Lismore Electorate can apply for their share of $500,000 in funding from the NSW Government for new life-saving defbrillators, according to Lismore MP Janelle Saffn.

The equipment is funded under the NSW Government’s Local Sport Defbrillator Grant Program which provides up to $3,000 to eligible sporting organisations for the purchase of automated external defbrillators at sports facilities.

Since the program started, more than 2,000 defbrillators have been installed at sports facilities across New South Wales.

Applications close 27 November 2024 or when funding is exhausted.

For further information, including eligibility criteria, please see the program

guidelines via the QR code below.

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn said:

“With our high participation rates in organised sports and public spaces lending themselves to outdoor recreation, it’s critical that as many local sports facilities as possible are equipped to respond

to potentially lifethreatening incidents.

“This popular program traditionally has had a strong take-up rate, so I urge eligible sporting organisations to make an application in this funding round to increase the coverage of defbrillators in our towns and villages.

“Every life saved is worth it.”

NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

“With more than 9,000 out of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in NSW each year, the frst few minutes following an incident are critical, and access to a defbrillator can mean the difference between life and death.

“The NSW Government wants

to ensure people participating in sport have access to this life-saving equipment.

“The Local Sport Defbrillator Program ensures clubs are equipped to respond to these life-threatening emergencies.”

Professor Jamie Vandenberg, Codeputy Director of the Victor Chang Cardiac

Research Institute, said:

“Being able to access a defbrillator quickly and easily could be the difference between life and death for someone suffering a sudden cardiac arrest.

“In fact, survival rates nearly double if a defbrillator is used in the frst few minutes of a cardiac arrest.

“Currently just one in 10 people who have a sudden cardiac arrest outside of hospital will survive.

“This is a sobering statistic but it’s one we can change for the better by installing more of these lifesaving devices in sports clubs across the State.”

JENNINGS

In exciting news for retro gaming fans, Flappy Bird is set to make a comeback in 2024, a full decade after it was famously pulled from app stores by its creator, Dong Nguyen. The wildly popular mobile game frst launched in 2013 and became a viral hit thanks to its simple, yet addictive gameplay. At the peak of its success, Flappy Bird was reportedly earning over $50,000 a day through in-app advertisements. However, just months after its rise to fame, the game was removed from both the Apple App Store and Google Play in February 2014. Nguyen cited concerns that the game had become too addictive for users, leading to its abrupt removal.

The Return of Flappy Bird Now, after much anticipation, Flappy Bird is offcially returning, thanks to the efforts of dedicated fans and developers. In a recent announcement from the Flappy Bird Foundation, it was revealed that the game will be re-released on web platforms this fall, with iOS and Android versions expected to follow in 2025. While the original, frustratingly diffcult gameplay will remain intact, fans can also look forward to several new features. The revived version of the game will introduce new game

modes, including a more accessible “easy mode” for casual players, a basketballthemed mode, and a competitive battle royale mode. Additionally, players will have the opportunity to try out new characters, each with unique abilities, such as Trixie, Peng, and Tekno.

What Made Flappy Bird So Popular?

Flappy Bird’s charm lies in its minimalist design and deceptively challenging gameplay.

Players control a bird that must fap its way through gaps between green pipes, and each tap of the screen propels the bird upwards. The game’s straightforward concept and unforgiving diffculty level captivated millions of players worldwide, sparking a global obsession.

Its sudden removal from app stores only fuelled its mystique, with some fans even reselling phones preloaded with the game for exorbitant prices. Now, with its upcoming return, both long-time fans and a new generation of gamers will get the chance to experience the game that took the world by storm.

Flappy Bird is expected to launch on web platforms later this year, with the mobile release slated for 2025. Fans of the original can look forward to revisiting this classic while enjoying new content and challenges.

is expected to be rolled out worldwide over the coming weeks.

PlayStation 5 (PS5) is rolling out a signifcant update with exciting new features aimed at enhancing user experience, customization, and gameplay immersion.

As of September 2024, users in select regions are already starting to experience these updates, with global availability expected soon. The new features focus on providing more personalized experiences, improved social functionality, and energy-saving enhancements.

Welcome Hub

One of the most notable features in this update is the Welcome Hub, a redesigned home screen that allows players to personalize their interface like never before. Users can now add widgets displaying real-time information, such as storage space, battery levels, and friends’ online statuses. These widgets can be added, removed, and rearranged to suit individual preferences.

Another exciting aspect of the Welcome Hub is the ability to customize the background. Gamers can choose from a variety of designs, or even use screenshots from their gameplay to make the interface truly their own. While currently available in the U.S., the Welcome Hub

Personalised 3D

Audio Profles

Sony has also introduced personalized 3D audio profles for headphones, further enhancing the immersive gaming experience. This new feature customizes the 3D audio settings based on an individual’s unique hearing capabilities. By tailoring the audio profle to each user, this update allows gamers to perceive in-game sounds—like footsteps or distant conversations—more accurately and clearly.

The new 3D audio profle is particularly benefcial for players who want a more nuanced, detailed sound environment in games, enhancing the spatial awareness that can be crucial in competitive scenarios. Gamers can create their custom audio profle in the console’s settings, ensuring a sound experience that suits their personal needs.

Adaptive Charging

Another new feature, exclusive to the PS5 Slim and PS5 Pro models, is adaptive charging for the DualSense controller. Adaptive charging intelligently regulates power to ensure that the controller charges only as much as needed. When the console enters rest mode, the system adjusts the power supply based on the controller’s battery level, cutting off power once it’s fully charged. This not only saves energy but also extends the controller’s battery lifespan.

This feature is available through the USB-C port on supported consoles, adding a layer of smart power management to the PS5’s already robust feature set.

Party Share

For players who enjoy gaming with friends, the update introduces Party Share, a new way to share voice chat and party links across platforms. Users can

now send invite links to group voice chats through social media apps like WhatsApp and X (formerly Twitter), making it easier than ever for friends to join a gaming session. This cross-platform functionality streamlines the process of getting groups together for multiplayer gaming, regardless of whether or not all players are on the PlayStation Network.

Remote Play

Permissions

The update also includes improvements to Remote Play permissions, giving users more control over who can access their console remotely. Players can now set permissions for individual users, offering more precise control over access to the console via Remote Play.

Conclusion

With these new features, the PS5 continues to evolve, offering gamers more customization, smarter energy use, and an even more immersive gaming experience. Whether you’re enjoying personalized audio or the convenience of Party Share, the latest updates are sure to enhance how players interact with the console. As the updates continue to roll out globally, PS5 users everywhere can look forward to a more personalized and streamlined gaming experience.

LIAM

LIAM JENNINGS

The all-new 2025 Smart #5 electric SUV is set to revolutionize the way people experience the outdoors, combining cutting-edge electric technology with features designed for adventure.

Created through a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Geely (Volvo’s parent company), the “hashtag fve” is poised to change weekend getaways with a unique blend of offroad capability, luxury,

than 700 kilometres on a single charge. But this vehicle isn’t just about getting from point A to point B — it’s equipped to power outdoor adventures. The Smart #5 can run a variety of appliances, including a fridge, movie projector, and a high-fdelity stereo, making it an ideal companion for camping trips and outdoor escapes.

Design and Off-Road Capability Sized similarly to a Subaru Forester, the Smart #5 is designed for mild

Lucid Teases Tesla Model Y Rival, Set for 2026 Release

pack draws inspiration from the Land Rover Defender, featuring practical additions like a fold-down ladder, rooftop cargo tray, and external storage for muddy or wet gear.

Luxurious Interior and Advanced Technology Inside, the Smart #5 offers a premium experience with a digital dashboard and two high-resolution AMOLED displays. The SUV also boasts an augmented reality headup display, giving drivers enhanced navigation

into an entertainment hub for remote locations.

The vehicle’s heated seats come with a massage function and can fold fat to create a “king size” sleeping space — perfect for overnight stays, though likely not quite as large as a traditional mattress. Adding to the luxurious feel, the Sennheiser surround sound system provides immersive audio, while a cute electronic avatar acts as a digital assistant, similar to Amazon’s Alexa or Apple’s Siri.

Innovative Features for Outdoor Adventures

One of the standout features is the built-in movie projector, which, combined with the

2025 Smart #5 Electric SUV Revealed

“100kWh

battery, offering an impressive range of more than 700 kilometres on a single charge”

climate-controlled cabin, offers a unique way to relax under the stars. The SUV’s robust electrical system also allows it to power various appliances, transforming campsites into high-tech getaways.

Launch and Market Plans Though pricing details have not been confrmed, industry expectations suggest the Smart #5 could approach the $100,000 mark, especially given its extensive features and capabilities. This places it above the smaller Smart #1 and Smart #3 models.

The brand’s decision to debut the model globally in Byron Bay, Australia, underscores its intent to

bring the Smart #5 to the Australian market. After its initial release in China later this year, production for Australia is expected to begin in 2025, with journalists from Europe and Asia already traveling to see the model in person. With its combination of eco-friendly electric power, innovative tech, and off-road capability, the 2025 Smart #5 promises to be a gamechanger in the electric SUV market, catering to those who want to explore the outdoors without sacrifcing comfort or modern conveniences.

California-based electric vehicle manufacturer

Lucid Motors has announced plans to launch a midsize electric SUV by late 2026, designed to compete directly with the popular Tesla Model Y. The upcoming model is expected to start at around $US50,000 (approximately $AU75,000), positioning it as a new challenger in the rapidly expanding electric SUV market.

new SUV will be built on a platform developed for smaller, more cost-effcient vehicles.

Lucid, known for its Air sedan and soonto-be-released Gravity SUV, revealed that the

The Tesla Model Y, currently priced from $US44,990 ($AU67,000) in the U.S., will be the main competitor for Lucid’s latest offering.

According to Lucid, the new SUV will use the

company’s advanced technology to achieve the same range as its rivals but with a smaller battery, delivering cost and effciency benefts.

Lucid began production of its Air sedan at its Arizona facility in October 2021, and the Gravity SUV is expected to enter production

later this year. Despite the expansion of its lineup, Lucid vehicles are not expected to enter Australian showrooms anytime soon, as production is currently limited to left-hand drive.

Lucid CEO Peter Rawlinson expressed a desire to produce right-

hand drive models in the future but acknowledged that the company is currently focused on the development of its new models, including the high-performance Sapphire version of the Air, which can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 1.89 seconds.

The midsize electric

SUV market continues to attract competition, with more automakers entering the feld to rival the Tesla Model Y, which was the world’s bestselling vehicle in 2023.

As Lucid teases its new model, the competition in this segment is set to intensify in the coming years.

JEFF GIBBS

JEFF GIBBS

Victoria launches gig fund and festivals grants to support challenging live music sector

As live music venues and festival organisers adapt to rising costs and lower spending on alcohol than previous generations, the Victorian Government has announced a $3.9 million funding package to support the sector and musicians who rely on playing gigs to hone their craft and build fan followings.

The first round of 10,000 Gigs: The Victorian Gig Fund will fund 144 venues across the state to stage paid gigs by local artists, while the Live Music Festivals Fund will see 22 festivals receive grants of up to $50,000 to help them stage new or existing events.

Live music venues awarded grants include iconic Melbourne venues such as The Tote, The Jazzlab, Mamma Chen’s and Laundry, with

regional venues like Ballarat’s Volta, Barwon Heads Hotel and Theatre Royal in Castlemaine all part of the mix, along with suburban venues like District 14 in Narre Warren.

Festival recipients include fan favourites Port Fairy Folk Festival, Queenscliff Music Festival and Riverboats Festival, alongside the return of Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues, and new events including GROUNDED to be held at Dookie Quarry, and Yass Queens Park, a queer-focused festival in Moonee Ponds.

Also part of the package, $1 million of Music Works grants will support 92 music projects involving 600 music industry professionals, giving both emerging and established artists the opportunity to take the

next step in their careers.

Over the past nine years, the program has invested almost $13 million in more than 800 projects.

As part of the package, the GRID Series artist development program is back in Geelong for a second year helping local emerging musicians build and establish their careers, while The Push All Ages Grants will support live music venues, booking agents, artists, promoters and community organisations across Victoria to stage

events for all ages.

Multicultural Arts Victoria will present its third iteration of its NEWPRINT program, offering professional development opportunities for artists and creative workers from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

“We’re continuing to back our state’s live music industry at all levels, with funding for festivals and venues to stage great events and live performances,

support for established artists and industry workers, and to help emerging musicians get their start in the industry,” says Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks.

“While the live music sector continues to face challenges across the country, this investment will help strengthen our local industry – a vital creative sector for our state.”

Music Victoria CEO Simone Schinkel says it would be “hard to

be in Victoria and not experience the direct benefits of such an investment”.

“It’s great to see the Victorian Government continuing to champion local musical talent, showcasing original contemporary music from Victoria in live music venues across the state, alongside international acts at festivals, and supporting Victorian artists as they tour nationally and internationally,” Schinkel says.

Low Interest Loans to Fuel Growth and Job Creation for Regional NSW Businesses

IAN ROGERS

The Minns Labor Government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering economic growth in regional NSW, announcing today the first recipients of its low-interest loans aimed at boosting jobs and revenue in the food and beverage manufacturing sector.

As part of the Regional Development Roadmap, seven businesses in locations including Dubbo, Byron Bay, Wagga Wagga, Wauchope, Bathurst, the Central Coast, and the Southern Highlands will benefit

from these loans. This initiative is designed to enhance productivity, create jobs, and advance manufacturing capabilities across the region.

Under the $5 million pilot program, businesses can access loans ranging from $100,000 to $1 million at a fixed interest rate of 2.5% over the life of the loan. Payments will be interest-only for the first two years, with a maximum loan term of seven years. Unlike conventional commercial loans, these loans do not require family homes to be put up as security. These funds can be used for projects such as installing automated production lines,

upgrading bottling processes, or purchasing equipment that enhances export capabilities.

In a series of Ministerial Roundtables with regional businesses, leaders in the food and beverage industry highlighted the need for support to adopt new technology, boost productivity, and expand market opportunities. The government is addressing these needs, helping businesses grow, increase local produce demand, and create more jobs.

Companies Receiving Low-Interest Loans:

• Little Big Dairy Co. (Dubbo): Funds will be used to install automated

technology, reduce waste, and increase capacity, improving energy efficiency while creating jobs and expanding market reach.

• Byron Beef Jerky (Byron Bay): The company will convert areas into cool rooms and food prep spaces, upgrade power, and enhance production and storage, which will drive demand for local beef and support job creation.

• East Coast Beverages (Central Coast): The loan will enable upgrades to production with automated technology, including high-speed conveyors, bottling equipment, and advanced

line cleaning systems, increasing output and reducing waste.

• Ezy Fresh (Wagga Wagga): The company plans to diversify its product range and streamline production, which will allow for staff upskilling, capacity doubling, and an increase in demand for locally grown vegetables.

• Timber Town Pies (Wauchope): With the loan, the company will upgrade equipment to double production capacity, create new jobs, and boost local beef demand.

• McDowells Herbal (Bathurst): Investment in specialist equipment will allow McDowells Herbal

to expand its product line and significantly increase output, leading to job growth and higher revenue.

The food and beverage manufacturing sector is a cornerstone of regional employment in NSW, already home to major companies like Nestlé, Ferrero, Stone and Wood, Sanitarium, and Simplot Foods. In 2022-2023, the sector generated an annual turnover of $42.5 billion and employed over 66,000 people as of May 2024.

For more details on the businesses receiving loans or to apply for the program, visit the NSW Government Regional Development Trust website by scanning the QR Code below.

IAN ROGERS

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

Join Karen Minami in this special workshop where she will share the secrets she uses to create dance performances that are bursting with expression and life, by activating deep emotion and boundless imagination.

In the frst half, you will learn original choreography, crafted from Karen’s unique fusion of lyrical contemporary and theater jazz dance, built on over 20 years of training in Tokyo.

The second half is where the fun really begins! Through a playful process, you will be placed into a narrative designed to activate your imagination. Utilizing a variety of scripts, Karen will help you explore a range of emotions to

‘Turn Back Time’, Escape Band’s 70s, 80s & 90s tribute show, is a show-stopping production that brings your favourite classics to life and provides dynamic entertainment that will appeal to a wide demographic. The 70s, 80s & 90s saw many experimenting to create new sounds. It was the rise of the glam rock movement that led many icons, such as David Bowie, to experiment with their entire persona,

deliver a unique version of the choreography, infused with your own expression.

This creative experience will guide you in colouring and shaping dance choreography with the assistance of imagination and theater. You’ll learn to enhance your facial expressions, refne your storytelling skills, and expand your movement

portraying otherworldly characters. They were the decades of The Rolling Stones and ABBA, Madonna, Blondie, Fleetwood Mac, Bon Jovi, Motley Crue, Queen, Elton John, MC Hammer, Run DMC etc.

The fve- or six-piece ensemble is fronted by lead vocalists Natalie James & Lindsay West, and delivers an array of dance, retro, disco, pop & rock music from the 1970s, 1980s & 1990s. These remain

to Byron Bay in 2013 and now incorporates infuences of West African, Ballet, Belly Dancing, Tap and Kathak dance into her original Contemporary Jazz dance choreography. Her primary project currently is ‘Liquidelic’, a live performance group that fuses dance, music and analogue projection art into a theatrical show.

vocabulary to use your body as a powerful tool of expression! This workshop isn’t just about dance—it’s about unlocking your imagination and discovering new ways to express yourself through movement.

Please wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement. Bare feet, socks, jazz shoes or

iconic decades when the biggest names in music were born. This show is the most popular of Escape’s acts for weddings, parties, public venues, corporate events & theatre performances across Australia.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday 27th Sept and Saturday 28t Sept @9pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: Free

ballet fats are all acceptable.

Karen Minami Biography Karen grew up in Tokyo, where she was a performer with Ikuko Kanemitsu Dance Company for 20 years, giving her world-class training and experience in Jazz and Contemporary dance. Karen was awarded the GrandPrix

prize at the Jazz Dance Art Association Competition in 2007. Always curious about other forms of dance, Karen has also studied dance in New York, Varanasi, Melbourne and Sydney. She has toured internationally as a dancer with award-winning artists and has performed at various Australian music festivals. Karen moved

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Thursday 16th Sept @6pm

• Where: Body lounge, Byron Bay

• Price: From $30

• Tickets: Via the QR code

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 As at July 2024, who has been the only Australian to have won the UCI Road World Championships Elite Men’s Road Race?

(a) Matthew Goss (b) Michael Matthews (c) Simon Gerrans (d) Cadel Evans

2 The Kara Sea is considered to be part of which ocean? (a) Indian Ocean (b) Southern Ocean (c) Atlantic Ocean (d) Arctic Ocean

3 If a house is described as capacious, what is it? (a) Cluttered (b) Modern (c) Spacious (d) Old

4 The equator passes through which country starting with B?

(a) Benin (b) Bahrain (c) Brazil (d) Bangladesh

5 Tertius Lydgate is one of the main characters in which classic novel? (a) Emma (b) Madame Bovary (c) Crime and Punishment (d) Middlemarch

6 Who stars as Madeline Mackenzie in the TV series, Big Little Lies? (a) Nicole Kidman (b) Reese Witherspoon (c) Shailene Woodley (d) Meryl Streep

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 APPETENT

(a) Eagerly desirous

(b) Belonging to (c) Annexed

2 LOGAN

(a) A box in the theatre or opera house

(b) The logarithm of a logarithm

(c) A rocking stone

3 PERPETUITY

(a) A difficulty

(b) Endless time

(c) A thorough search

4 VIDUOUS

(a) Based on the number twenty

(b) Widowed (c) Watchful

5 WADI

(a) A coarse woollen cloth woven in Orkney and Shetland

(b) A wooden club

(c) The dry bed of a torrent

BYRON BAY FLOORSANDING 0408 536 565

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

SORT YOUR LIFE OUT

TEN, 7.30pm

English TV presenter Stacey Solomon (pictured) puts her trademark cheer and compassion to good use in this series, helping families across the UK who are being consumed by their clutter: Solomon and her team of experts (organiser Dilly, carpenter Rob and cleaner Iwan) declutter and make over their homes in just seven days. In this season nale, the crew help out the Yaku family in St Alban’s, removing every item from their home before their possessions are laid out in a warehouse art installation: almost 3000 toys, 225 DVDs and more than 60 obsolete chargers. It’s a daunting prospect, with parents of four Tash and Lawrence wondering how it all even t in their house in the rst place.

FRIDAY, September 27

SATURDAY

AFL GRAND FINAL PRE- GAME

SEVEN, 12pm

While exactly which AFL superstars will battle it out for the ag was still TBD at time of press, what we can tell you is that it’s well worth tuning in early to catch this year’s pre-match entertainment. Katy Perry’s (pictured) gravity-defying, sci- themed medley of her greatest hits (including “Dark Horse”, “I Kissed a Girl” and “California Gurls”) at the recent MTV VMAs is hopefully a sign of good things to come for her MCG performance, with the international popstar joined on the lineup by Aussie singer, actor and swimmer Cody Simpson; national treasure Christine Anu and her daughter Zipporah Corser-Anu; and, of course, Mike Brady, who returns to the hallowed turf to perform “Up There Cazaly”.

TUESDAY TAKE 5 WITH ZAN ROWE

ABC TV, 8.30pm

Music lover Zan Rowe, who has forged a stellar career on screen her subjects to open up. Tonight, she returns with the third season of her fascinating foray into the soundtrack of celebrities’ lives. The magic and emotion of songs is celebrated as guests including Powder nger’s Bernard Fanning, ’s Claudia Karvan, comic Bill Bailey and Crowded House’s Neil Finn unwrap the memories and passions behind ve of their favourite tunes. But rst, the iconic Dannii Minogue (pictured with Rowe) sits down for an illuminating heart-to-heart that delves into her love of music and performing and even sister Kylie’s cancer battle.

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

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 11.00 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure. (PGa, R) 1.45 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 2.35 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 3.05 The Homes That Built Australia. (R) 4.00 The Assembly. (PG, R) 4.45 Grand Designs. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Jane Edmanson tours a country garden.

8.30 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure: India. (PG, R) Part 2 of 4. Joanna Lumley follows the spice trail to her birthplace, India.

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

10.10 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R)

10.45 ABC Late News.

11.00 Grand Designs: North Devon. (R)

11.50 The Larkins. (Ms, R)

12.35 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. (PGa, R) 10.50 Looking For Rembrandt. (Ms, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.10 History Of Britain. (PGal, R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.00 The Lakes With Simon Reeve. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Hailey Dean Mysteries: A Will To Kill. (2018, PGav, R) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PG) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 My Grandparents’ War: Emeli Sandé. (PGa, R) Part 3 of 4. 9.25 Lost Treasures Of Ancient Rome: Herculaneum. (Final, PGa, R) Takes a look at Herculaneum, an ancient Roman seaside town that was buried in a volcanic eruption.

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Soldiers. (Mals)

12.35 A Class Apart. (MA15+d, R)

3.55 Make Me A Dealer. (R)

4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs joins Paul Maric.

8.30 MOVIE: Ladies In Black. (2018, PGl, R) A young woman learns about life and love while working at a department store in ’50s Sydney, when immigration was booming and multiculturalism was in its formative days. Angourie Rice, Julia Ormond, Rachael Taylor.

10.45 Armchair Experts: Grand Final Special. (PG, R) A panel discusses all things AFL.

11.45 GetOn Extra.

12.15 To Be Advised.

2.00 Home Shopping.

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

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Finding Mr Right. (2023, G) 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Rugby League. NRL. First preliminary nal. Melbourne Storm v Sydney Roosters.

9.45 NRL Finals Footy Post-Match.

A post-match NRL wrap-up of the rst preliminary nal, with expert analysis and player interviews.

10.30 MOVIE: Sudden Impact. (1983, MA15+alsv, R) A detective investigates a series of murders. Clint Eastwood, Sondra Locke.

12.50 Sur ng Australia TV. (R)

1.20 My Way. (R)

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)

(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 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Doctor Who. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 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: Catching Fire. (2013, M) 10.30 MOVIE: Bad Neighbours 2. (2016, MA15+) 12.20am Love Island UK. 1.30 Below Deck. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.00 Bakugan: Evolutions. 3.30 Beyblade Burst: Quad Drive. 4.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning

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. (Final, 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 Graham Norton Show. (PGal, R) Graham Norton is joined by Dame Judi Dench, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jack Whitehall and Jay Blades. 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) 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.05pm WorldWatch. 12.35 Woman. 1.05 Devoured. 1.55 One Star Reviews. 2.55 Over The Black Dot. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.40 The Toys That Built The World. 6.30 The Engineering That Built The World. 7.20 Jeopardy! 7.50 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.45 Cycling. UCI Road World Championships. Men’s under 23 road race. 1.15am Fanatics: The Deep End. 1.40 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista. 1.55 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 6.30 I Escaped To The Country. 7.30 The Zoo. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Harry’s Practice. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 House Of Wellness. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 My Impossible House. 4.00 The Zoo. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 I Escaped To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30

9GO! (83) 6am Skating To New York. Continued. (2013, PG) 6.40 The Cup. (2011, PG) 8.40 A Hard Day’s Night. (1964, PG) 10.20 Stockholm. (2018, M) Noon Mad Max Fans: Beyond The Wasteland. 1.50 Without A Clue. (1988, PG) 3.50 Belle And Sebastian 2. (2015, PG, French) 5.35 Summerland. (2020, PG) 7.30 Operation Mincemeat. (2021, M) 9.50 Harry Brown. (2009, MA15+) 11.55 Cat Call. (2023, M,

10.15 MOVIE: Battleship. (2012, M) 12.55am Late Programs.

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

S O E

F U T

C

A F Today’s target: 10 words average 14 words good 18+ 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)

When it comes to professional or volunteer work, do you feel as if you’ve been going backwards? Prepare to take a welcome leap forward as Mercury and Pluto move things in a positive direction. So don’t waste precious time procrastinating! Be upfront with work colleagues, clients or customers, and keep them up to date with current plans and proposed changes. The more proactive your approach with family and friends, the better the week will be.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Expect an intense start to the week, as powerful Pluto stirs up problems in a romantic or professional partnership. You may feel jealous, possessive or conflicted. So be patient and avoid making any important long-term decisions until things settle down. The rest of the week looks promising, as the universe provides an opportunity for you to do something creative or learn something new. Make the most of original, innovative Uranus transiting through your sign!

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

Are you making the most of Jupiter jumping through your sign? The planet of good fortune is transiting through Gemini for another nine months. And then it won’t be back again for eleven years. So don’t rest on your lovely laurels! It’s time to turn dynamic opportunities into productive, prosperous projects. Ultimately, it’s up to you. Birthday great Bruce Springsteen (who turns 75 on Monday) reminds us: “When it comes to luck, you make your own.”

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Calling all Crabs! It’s time to connect with colleagues, clients and customers at work, plus family and friends within your local community as you talk, text, tweet, publish, podcast or post up a storm. Other people are expecting you to come up with some clever ideas and smart solutions so put on your thinking cap Cancer! And don’t persist with outdated old ways of doing things. Be proactive about initiating adventurous and perceptive new strategies.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

You could find you’re walking on a financial or communication tightrope this week! With the planets stirring up your money and intimacy zones, you’re primed for a spontaneous spending spree or a relationship glitch. In order to avoid messy problems, make sure you pause before you spend – and think before you speak. There could also be some conflict between working/studying close to home and travelling/venturing farther afield. Balance is the key.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Virgo folk prefer things to run smoothly but there’s confusing planetary energy about this week, and carefully laid plans could veer off in unexpected directions. Which could be wonderful or stressful, depending on the circumstances. Whatever happens, drop the perfectly planned schedule and go with the flow. When it comes to money matters, joint finances, taxes or trust issues, avoid being uncharacteristically rash. Slow down and take a second look.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

With the Sun and Venus visiting your sign this week, you’ll find confidence and charm are a winning combination. It’s also a wonderful time to boost your self-esteem with a physical makeover, tap into your latent talents, and believe in yourself. Even when other people disagree with you and the going gets tough! So your motto for the moment is from Libran birthday great, Olivia Newton-John: “When things go wrong … focus on the positive things in your life.”

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

On Monday, resist the temptation to retreat inwards (and be moody and mysterious) to cover up your emotional insecurities. Clear and honest communication (with yourself and others) will get you a lot further than sulky Scorpio behaviour! Are you overdue for some creature comforts and a touch of luxe? Indulgent Venus visits your sign from Monday until October 17. So raid your piggy bank and treat yourself to a restaurant meal or some indulgent body pampering.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Are you wasting time worrying about all the ‘What If’s?’ Stop stressing and instead, be proactive. Regarding a work matter or a job interview, crank up the charm and original ideas. Wednesday and Thursday are the best days to contemplate a current problem and come up with an innovative, perceptive plan. As writer (and birthday great) F. Scott Fitzgerald observed: “Either you think – or else others have to think for you and take power from you.”

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

This week is all about travel, education and communication as Mercury links up with curious Uranus and perceptive Pluto (in your sign). It’s also time to dream big – and often – as the planets activate your hopes, dreams and wishes zone. Be inspired by real life Superman, birthday great Christopher Reeve: “So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable. And then, when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Restless Uranus and curious Mercury boost your bohemian side and your adventurous nature. You’re itching to explore! But – if you are overly impulsive and vague (especially on Wednesday) –you could find yourself involved in a confusing argument, a financial fiasco or a domestic drama. Astute Aquarians will choose creative problemsolving over unpredictable shenanigans, as you slow down and think things through before proceeding.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) You love to chat, converse and communicate about your dreams and plans for the future. However, sometimes you can confuse talking about something with actually doing it! If you think things through and then act with passion and purpose, the week will go well. But if you don’t walk your talk, then expect delays, disappointments and/ or uncertainty. Be inspired by music legend (and birthday great) Bruce Springsteen: “Talk about a dream and then make it real.”

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

The Netfix original series Bridgerton has taken the world by storm, blending lavish Regency-era visuals with modern storytelling. Based on the bestselling novels by Julia Quinn, the show, produced by Shonda Rhimes’ Shondaland, offers a fresh and diverse take on London’s high society. Since its debut, Bridgerton has become one of Netfix’s most-watched series, captivating viewers with its mix of romance, scandal, and intrigue.

Set in early 19th century London, Bridgerton follows the powerful Bridgerton family as they navigate the competitive marriage market. Each season focuses on one sibling’s romantic journey, with the frst centring on Daphne Bridgerton and her tumultuous relationship with Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings. Their arrangement, initially a ruse to avoid societal pressures, blossoms into a deep, passionate love affair. The second season shifts to the eldest son, Anthony Bridgerton, as he embarks on his own complicated path to romance.

A signifcant aspect of the show’s success lies in its approach to diversity. Unlike

Lunar Disco is back on our shores after their traditional annual European Tour launching their season in Australia with Oliver Dollar.

traditional period dramas, Bridgerton features a racially diverse cast, including characters like Simon Basset, played by RegéJean Page, who gained widespread attention for his portrayal of the troubled duke. The show’s colour-conscious casting brings a fresh perspective to the genre, allowing modern viewers to engage with the story on multiple levels.

Another standout feature is the show’s soundtrack, which reimagines popular contemporary songs as classical instrumentals, adding a modern touch to the period setting. This unique blend of past and present has helped Bridgerton capture a wide audience, earning both critical acclaim and immense popularity. With its romantic plots, sumptuous visuals, and bold narrative choices, Bridgerton is set to remain a cultural phenomenon as new seasons focus on the remaining Bridgerton siblings.

Bridgerton is available to stream on Netfix. The best order to watch is:

• Bridgerton Season 1

• Bridgerton Season 2

• Queen Charlotte (A spinoff season)

• Bridgerton Season 3

Hey Byron Rockstars, Lunar Disco, one of our favourite local DJ duos—partners in life and behind the decks—is back on our shores after their traditional annual European Tour, Kicking on their label night « SUCK MY DISCO » with this.

Have you heard about OLIVER $??

If you haven’t, you have defnitely heard some of this tunes somewhere probably

amazing. Oliver $ is a German record producer. He was born in Berlin. The past few years have seen Oliver Dollar’s star rise to be a recognisable staple within house music. But it was 2011 when this Berlin based producer gained the attention he deserved in the form of his frst Beatport #1 “Doin’ Ya Thang” - released on Play It Down. “Doin’ Ya Thang” remained at the #1 spot for an astounding 5 weeks. This success was quickly followed up with monster-cuts ‘Granulated Soul’ and ‘Hoes’, both again on Play It Down.

His collaboration with Jimi Jules, “Pushing On”, peaked at number 15 on the UK Singles Chart. The song was credited as the second most Shazamed track in Ibiza for 2014, having been frequently dropped by DJs in festival season Full Line Up:

• Oliver $ (International guest)

• Lunar Disco Live

• Deivilon

• Lasbeat

• High Hat Where: At an epic new venue right in the heart of town, tucked away in the back of an old warehouse right in the middle of town on

Jonson Street. Indoor/ Outdoor setting, music, and drinks. This is a private event with a limited amount of spots available. Please RSVP promptly.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th Spet @7pm

• Where: Otherworld, Byron Bay

• Price: From $39

• Tickets: Via the QR code

Join Dana Gehrman in celebrating her new single, ‘Let It Be You’. Following 4-star applause for their recent LP, ‘Down In Hollywood’ Dana Gehrman and her band of brothers invite you to join them in celebrating the release of their latest musical offering, a country-soul ballad from the heart: ‘Let It Be You’. Gehrman delivers a vintage sound that evokes rich nostalgia.

Taking infuence from the halcyon days of 70’s ‘west coast’ music, Gehrman rewinds to a time of genre-bending experimentalism with her songwriting, blending soul, roots-rock and blues, all with unfaltering vocals. Gehrman has shared the stage with Tim Rogers (You Am I), Mick Thomas (Weddings, Parties, Anything), Phil Jamieson (Grinspoon), Charlie Owen (Tex, Don

& Charlie), The Teskey Brothers, Russell Morris, Walter Trout (USA), Wagons, Frazey Ford (CAN), Mia Dyson and more.

Dana Gehrman and Band will be joined on the evening by special guest, Ruby Gilbert. Ruby is nothing short of a sonic enchantress. Weaving a musical alchemy of Americana style meets present day experience. Irresistibly nostalgic, her voice

evokes an old-time feel, while her lyrics are both charismatic and endearing.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 28th Sept @7pm

• Where: The Citadel, Murwillumbah

• Price: From $35

• Tickets: Via the QR code

Nestled in the South Pacifc Ocean, Norfolk Island is one of Australia’s most captivating, yet lesserknown destinations.

Located about 1,400 kilometres east of the mainland, this idyllic island offers a perfect blend of stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and a warm, welcoming community. Though often overlooked, Norfolk Island is an excellent escape for those looking to unwind while still being able to travel within Australia (Well, technically).

For nature lovers, Norfolk Island is a paradise waiting to be explored. The island’s green hills and Norfolk pines create a picturesque setting against the beaches and turquoise waters. Hiking enthusiasts will love exploring the island’s numerous walking tracks. A must-do is the Mount Pitt lookout, which offers sweeping 360-degree views of the entire island and beyond. From here, you can take in the island’s rugged coastline,

Corporate

dense forests, and surrounding ocean.

The island’s coral reefs are perfect for snorkelling and diving, providing opportunities to discover a unique underwater landscape. Emily Bay, with calm, shallow waters, is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Norfolk Island is also a birdwatcher’s haven, home to a wide variety of bird species, including the endangered Norfolk Island green parrot. With so many natural wonders, the island offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

Norfolk Island’s history is just as compelling as its scenery. Once a notorious penal colony, the island has a deep connection to Australia’s convict past. The Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area (KAVHA), a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserves much of this convict history. Visitors can explore wellpreserved ruins, including former jails, barracks, and other colonial-era buildings, learning about the harsh conditions that convicts endured.

But Norfolk Island’s

history is not only tied to its convict past.

The island also has a unique connection to the HMS Bounty mutiny, as descendants of the mutineers eventually settled on the island.

This legacy is alive today, and visitors can learn more about it at the Bounty Folk Museum or by taking part in the Pitcairn Settlers Village tour, which offers an immersive experience into the lives of these early settlers.

One of the greatest joys of visiting Norfolk Island is experiencing its relaxed, friendly atmosphere. With a population of just over 2,000 people, the island has a close-knit community where everyone knows each other. Visitors are often welcomed like old friends, creating a warm and inviting experience.

The island’s food scene is another highlight.

Norfolk Island’s farms produce an abundance of fresh, organic produce, and many restaurants serve meals made from locally grown ingredients. Freshly caught fsh and seafood are also staples.

Aside from food, Norfolk Island offers a range of activities for all interests. You can browse the island’s markets for locally made crafts and souvenirs or take a stroll through the stunning Norfolk Island Botanic Gardens, which showcases the island’s native plants and trees. Despite its remoteness, Norfolk Island is surprisingly easy to reach. Regular fights operate from Sydney, Brisbane, and Auckland, making it a convenient destination for Australian and New Zealand travellers. Once on the island, renting a car is the best way to explore, as public transport is limited. The island is small, and you can drive from one end to the other in just 30 minutes.

Norfolk Island offers an unforgettable experience for travellers seeking natural beauty, history, and a relaxed pace of life. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history buff, or someone simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Norfolk Island has something to offer. Discover it now, before the rest of the world catches on.

LIAM JENNINGS

Diabetes Drugs Linked to Lower Risk of Dementia and Parkinson’s, Study Finds

IAN ROGERS

A recent study published in the September 2024 issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, suggests that a class of diabetes drugs known as sodiumglucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors may lower the risk of developing dementia and Parkinson’s disease.

SGLT2 inhibitors, also known as glifozins, help reduce blood sugar by prompting the kidneys to eliminate excess glucose through urine. The study, conducted by Minyoung Lee, MD, PhD, from Yonsei University College of Medicine in Seoul, South Korea, is particularly encouraging as it shows a potential protective effect of these drugs against neurodegenerative conditions, which are becoming more common as the population ages.

“Neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Parkinson’s are

on the rise, especially among people with diabetes, who face an increased risk of cognitive impairment.

It’s promising to see that SGLT2 inhibitors may offer some protection,” said Dr. Lee.

Study Overview

The retrospective study focused on people with type 2 diabetes in South Korea who began taking diabetes medication between 2014 and

2019. Participants using SGLT2 inhibitors were compared to those taking other oral diabetes drugs, with both groups matched for age, health conditions, and diabetes complications. The participants were monitored to track the development of dementia and Parkinson’s disease.

• Total participants: 358,862

• Average age: 58

• Total cases of

dementia/Parkinson’s: 6,837

• Follow-up duration: 2 years for SGLT2 inhibitors, 4 years for other drugs

Key Findings

• Alzheimer’s disease: Those on SGLT2 inhibitors had an incidence rate of 39.7 cases per 10,000 person-years, compared to 63.7 cases for those on other diabetes drugs.

• Vascular dementia:

Incidence rates were 10.6 cases per 10,000 for SGLT2 users versus 18.7 cases for others.

• Parkinson’s disease: The incidence rate was 9.3 cases per 10,000 for those on SGLT2 drugs compared to 13.7 cases for others.

After adjusting for factors such as blood pressure, glucose levels, and cholesterol, the study found that SGLT2 inhibitors

were associated with a 20% reduced risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease and a 30% reduced risk of vascular dementia.

The Impact of Missed Super Contributions

Dr. Lee noted that further research is needed to confrm these fndings over a longer period, as some participants could still develop these diseases beyond the study’s timeline. However, the current results are encouraging and point to the potential of SGLT2 inhibitors in reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

The study was funded by various organizations, including the Korea Health Technology R&D Project, the Korea Health Industry Development Institute, and Yonsei University College of Medicine.

For more information on brain health, visit BrainandLife.org, the American Academy of Neurology’s resource for patients and caregivers.

Urgent Action Needed: Community is Both the Challenge and Solution for People with Dementia

IAN ROGERS

Dementia Australia has issued a call for urgent action as new research released during Dementia Action Week reveals that the ongoing lack of understanding of dementia among Australians continues to fuel stigma and discrimination. The report, titled “‘People in the Community’ are the Challenge and the Solution: Towards a Dementia-Friendly Future,” highlights that while community support can be transformative, it is also the primary source of challenges faced by those living with dementia.

Key fndings from the 2024 research show:

• 71% of people with a loved one living with dementia reported their loved one was patronized by others.

• 76% felt their family member or friend with dementia was treated as though they were not intelligent.

• Two in three identifed people in the community as the most frequent source of discrimination.

• One in three reported that people avoided or excluded their loved one with dementia. Additionally, other surveys by Dementia Australia show persistent misconceptions, with one in three Australians still believing that dementia is a normal part of aging—a belief that has grown slightly over the past decade. Alarmingly, 68% of respondents in both 2012 and 2024 indicated they know very little about dementia.

Bobby Redman, Chair of the Dementia Australia Advisory

Committee and an individual living with dementia, expressed her frustration over the lack of progress in understanding and awareness. “It’s almost unbelievable that we still have to talk about this. Why do people treat us differently? What have we done to deserve this? All we are asking for is to be understood, respected, and supported—basic human rights,” Ms. Redman said.

She emphasized the need for communities to recognize dementia as a disability, despite its invisibility, and to provide the necessary support to reduce social isolation. “If councils, businesses, and organizations acknowledged this, we could feel less isolated and more included,” she added.

While some communities are making efforts to combat discrimination and foster inclusion, Ms. Redman stressed that much more must be done to create dementia-friendly environments across the country.

Professor Tanya Buchanan, CEO of Dementia Australia, noted that the research confrms “people in the community” are the primary source of discrimination toward those living with dementia. “The stigma surrounding a dementia diagnosis can discourage people from seeking healthcare, including early diagnosis, and it often leads to reduced social engagement, which in turn negatively affects the physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being of the individual.”

Professor Buchanan called for collective action, urging local, state, territory, and federal governments, as well as community groups, to raise awareness and understanding of dementia and take steps to make communities more inclusive.

The report serves as a stark reminder that greater education, understanding, and community-driven initiatives are essential to reducing the stigma and discrimination faced by those living with dementia.

“It is incredibly disappointing that Australians’ understanding of dementia has not shifted in a decade and profoundly concerning that more people now think dementia is a normal part of ageing

than they did a decade ago. Dementia is not a normal part of ageing.

“We know that we can do better as there are great examples of dementia-friendly communities from around the country.

“And that’s why this Dementia Action Week (16-22 September) Dementia Australia is calling for urgent and sustained action by communities and governments at all levels to increase their awareness and understanding of dementia – and to become the solution.”

Head to dementia.org. au/DementiaActionWeek to fnd out how you can join us to create a future where all people impacted by dementia are supported and welcomed in their communities, no matter where they live.

GP Shortages Fuel Pressure on NSW Emergency Departments Amid Growing Healthcare Demand

The latest Bureau of Health Information (BHI) Health Quarterly report highlights the mounting strain on New South Wales’ health system, with emergency department (ED) attendances continuing to rise in response to diminishing access to general practitioners (GPs). Between April and June 2024, there were 795,817 attendances at NSW EDs, a 3.3% increase from the same period last year, demonstrating the growing demand for critical care services.

The report also underscores a signifcant drop in GP attendance across the state, with a decrease from 754,709 to 653,802 GP visits per 100,000 people between June 2022 and June 2023. This sharp decline represents the most substantial reduction in GP appointments in over a decade, a worrying trend exacerbated by the Federal Department of Health & Aged Care’s data showing a decrease in NSW’s GP workforce, down from 9,700 in 2019 to 9,485 in 2023.

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park expressed concern over the worsening situation, noting that many individuals are delaying necessary care, particularly for chronic conditions, which can result in health deterioration and the need for emergency treatment. The BHI report confrms that ED presentations from the sickest patients— categories 1, 2, and 3—have surged to record levels, far outpacing population growth.

“A growing number of patients are resorting to EDs simply because they cannot afford to see a GP or are unable to

secure an appointment within a reasonable time frame,” said Park. He emphasized the link between inadequate access to primary care and increased ED visits, stating that many of those seeking emergency care could have been treated by GPs if access were more readily available.

Compounding the issue, many admitted patients awaiting aged care or National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) placements are contributing to bottlenecks in hospitals. According to the report, nearly 800 patients exceeded their discharge dates, accumulating

over 41,000 additional bed days across NSW hospitals.

To address these challenges, the NSW Government has introduced several initiatives aimed at alleviating the pressure on EDs by expanding access to alternative care pathways and improving patient fow. These include:

• $100 million for urgent care services and $171.4 million for three new virtual care services aimed at diverting thousands of patients away from EDs.

• Expanding pharmacists’ roles to provide consultations for low-complexity

conditions, easing the burden on GPs.

• $70 million for short stay units, $31.4 million for hospital-in-home programs, and $53.9 million for deploying 86 patient fow offcers across the state’s hospitals.

Minister Park also pointed to the NSW Government’s $189 million Bulk-Billing Support Initiative, which aims to improve access to GPs and increase bulk-billing rates, a critical step in addressing the ongoing primary care crisis.

The state has also established an Emergency Department Taskforce

to review statewide ED performance and develop strategies for improving care delivery across NSW hospitals.

While acknowledging that primary care access remains a federal responsibility, Park emphasized that the NSW Government is doing its part by implementing these measures. He called on the federal government to continue working to reverse the impacts of the Medicare rebate freeze, which has further restricted access to GPs.

“We are incredibly grateful for the hard work of our hospital staff, who face unprecedented pressure. Our focus on creating alternative care pathways has already helped nearly a quarter of a million people avoid long waits in EDs, but we still need federal support to address the underlying issues in primary care,” Park said.

For non-emergency health concerns, residents are encouraged to call HealthDirect on 1800 022 222 to receive free advice from registered nurses, who can guide them to appropriate care services.

Heroin Overdoses Linked to Drugs Thought to Be Cocaine

NSW Health has issued an urgent warning following four recent heroin overdoses in New South Wales, two of which were fatal. These incidents involved individuals using substances they believed to be cocaine.

Dr. Hester Wilson, NSW Health’s Chief Addiction Medicine Specialist, cautioned that the danger of heroin overdose can arise from even a single dose of what users believe to be cocaine. Two people have died, and two others were hospitalized after using the suspected cocaine.

“A heroin overdose could quickly result from a single line,” Dr. Wilson

warned. “Opioids such as heroin can cause severe effects, including pinpoint pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slowed breathing or snoring, and skin turning blue or grey. These are life-threatening symptoms.”

Risks of Unknown Drug Composition

Dr. Wilson emphasized that one of the major risks of illicit drugs

is that the contents and strength are often unknown and inconsistent. Heroin and other opioids can sometimes be found in substances sold as cocaine, methamphetamine, or MDMA (ecstasy).

“You cannot always distinguish between these drugs by appearance,” she added. The Importance of

Naloxone

People who use substances like cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA, or opioids are urged to carry naloxone, a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of opioid overdoses. Naloxone is available as a nasal spray or injection, and it is free and accessible without a prescription in NSW. If someone shows any unexpected symptoms after using drugs, call Triple Zero (000) immediately and administer naloxone if available. Naloxone can be obtained discreetly by contacting NUAA at (02) 8354 7343, or ordered through their online shop.

Key Resources:

• NSW Poisons Information Centre: 13

11 26 (available 24/7)

• Alcohol and Drug Information Service: 1800 250 015 (for confdential and anonymous support, available 24/7)

• Public drug warnings: Visit NSW

Health’s drug warnings page.

Remember, seeking medical help for yourself or others will not result in legal trouble—take action immediately if you or someone else feels unwell.

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Grim Warning for Aussie Homeowners: Rate Relief Still Distant

ROBERT HEYWARD

Australian homeowners facing mortgage stress may have a longer wait for relief, with a leading industry forecaster warning that interest rate cuts could still be many months away. Oxford Economics Australia predicts the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) won’t begin cutting rates until the second quarter of 2025, far beyond the late 2024 cut expected by other forecasters, including the Commonwealth Bank.

“Given the RBA’s hawkish rhetoric, we don’t see rate cuts coming until Q2 2025,” said Sean Langcake, head of macroeconomic forecasting at Oxford Economics Australia, ahead of the frm’s biannual economic outlook. Langcake points to “strong cross currents” in the economy as the reason for the delayed cut, with policymakers navigating a “challenging” environment.

He noted that the labour market’s resilience is testing the RBA’s cautious approach to curbing infation, while a signifcant easing of fscal policy is providing a boost to the economy, potentially complicating efforts to keep infation in check.

Despite the RBA’s efforts to lower infation to its target range of 2-3 per cent, Langcake expects headline infation to remain high at the end of 2024. However, he warned that subsidies for utilities, which have contributed to disinfation, may cause the RBA to overlook the headline data.

RBA’s Tightening Cycle and Homeowner Struggles

The RBA implemented an aggressive rate tightening from May 2022 to combat rising infation, lifting the benchmark cash rate from 0.1 per cent to 4.35 per cent by November 2023. Although the rate has been on hold since then, RBA Governor Michele Bullock has emphasized that any

future cuts will require signifcant changes in infation trends.

“We’ve seen from overseas experience how bumpy infation can be on the way down,” Bullock said after the Board’s August meeting. “What we can say is that a near-term reduction in the cash rate doesn’t align with the board’s current thinking.”

The series of rate hikes has placed immense pressure on homeowners, many of whom are struggling to keep up with increased mortgage payments.

According to RateCity, monthly repayments on a $500,000, 30-year

mortgage have risen to $3,105 as of June 2024, compared to $1,989 in March 2022—an increase of $1,116 per month.

Worryingly, the value of home loans in arrears (30 to 89 days behind on payments) has surged, rising to $14.9 billion by June 2024, up from $5.9 billion in March 2022, according to APRA data. Laine Gordon, money editor at RateCity, acknowledged the growing fnancial strain on some Australian households: “Despite record high levels of savings, some families are dipping into their savings to keep up with

rising cost-of-living pressures.”

However, Gordon emphasized that nonperforming loans still represent a relatively small portion of overall credit, accounting for just 1.03 per cent of all outstanding loans in the June 2024 quarter, up slightly from 0.91 per cent pre-COVID.

Australia’s Infation Battle

Australia’s infation fght contrasts with that of other major economies, such as the United States, where the Federal Reserve is widely expected to cut interest rates in the near future.

The Commonwealth

Bank still expects the RBA to begin easing rates in late 2024, although it acknowledges there is a risk that rate cuts could be delayed until early 2025.

“We remain of the view that softer economic data, a further deceleration in infation, and the easing of monetary policy by many other central banks will see the RBA begin to cut interest rates later in 2024,” the Commonwealth Bank’s latest report states, though it notes a possible start date in early 2025.

Relax, have a break and enjoy BRISBANE

Enjoy good times in the CBD

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

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

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Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Hot under the collar from motel kettles.

Everybody laughs at the ubiquity of kettles in motel rooms that won’t ft under the tap because not only are all the fttings and fxtures in motels the cheapest that money can buy, which just happen to also be the smallest, but so are the appliances, which just happen to be the largest.

Just as Oscar Wilde wrote “Apologies for the long letter, I didn’t have time to

Deep Woods Estate

Margaret River Reserve Chardonnay 2023, $80

Very subtle marketing, the Reserve Range has a label soft gold on a soft silvery grey. Here, ‘Single Vineyard’ is trumped by the ‘Reserve’ range and the extra $30 buys a bit

time to write a short one”, so too are big kettles easier and cheaper to make than small ones.

But this is where things get weird, like American politicians, it is actually cheaper and easier to build a kettle with an exposed element than a fat-bottomed thingy, yet motels always opt for the latter.

This is because they are louder, and motels like nothing more than to help

it for when you have time to savour it. 9.5/10.

Deep Woods Estate

Margaret River Single Vineyard Chardonnay 2022, $50. The little sister is an altogether easier wine to live with and almost preferable to the reserve…but not quite.

guests annoy one another, which is amply achieved by frst banging the kettle on the basin and tap while trying to manoeuvre it into a position where water can get inside, and then by switching it on.

They are specifcally designed to not only wake guests in the same room, but also those in adjacent rooms, because roadside motels have brick walls.

Sound carries much more

‘Septimus’ Cabernet Malbec 2022, $50. Septimus sounds quite medical, but it’s the name of the vineyard, and also a roman emperor, so get over it, which is mercifully easy. Great wine for a gift to anyone called Septimus. 9.3/10.

effciently through hard mediums than soft which also explains why motel TVs are attached to the walls. Equally, no matter what time you set your alarm, the guest next door will have theirs, usually a clock radio or iPhone with ‘Marimba’ as the alarm tone, set earlier.

Naturally those same neighbours will have a wheelie case with one wheel missing, which is a bit

shiraz seems altogether better behaved than say Barossan or McLaren Vale shiraz, which by comparison are brash and loud. With this you can enjoy a quiet drink in both senses of the word. Refned and fne. 9.4/10.

Deep Woods Margaret

irrelevant because you are wide awake by then anyway and just in case, the opening and closing of every door of their car, will ensure it.

Additionally the neighbouring guests are also too poor to buy a new car so you will also be assailed by the rattly 1992 Toyota Landcrusher parked rear-in because they misread the new sign which says ‘Please park nose-in unless you have an electric vehicle in which

So much cabernet, so little time, Deep Woods have blocks all over the place and they’re all of such good quality, eastern states growers must be weeping into their Riedels. If variety wasn’t the spice of life you could just drink WA and be

case you can do as you wish, because you are an entitled, rich Greens voter’, which is far too complicated to be read by the equally entitled, National-Party-voting owner of the planet-killing diesel. Naturally, only Green voters will enjoy the following wines, Landcrusher owners will just whinge about not being able to clear their own deep woods, then do it anyway.

Sauvignon 2022, $90

As with most good cabernets, this shows its true colours the next day. If only we had been restrained enough to save more of it. Alternatively, you could buy two bottles and open them both. One

Max Crus

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

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

SOUTHERN-STYLE SWEET POTATO SALAD

INGREDIENTS

10m prep 30m cook serves 6

• 2 large gold sweet potatoes, halved lengthways, thickly sliced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

• 1 corn cob, husk and silk removed

• 1/3 cup (80ml) buttermilk

• 1/4 cup (75g) whole-egg mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1/4 cup fnely chopped coriander

• 1 avocado, stoned, peeled, cut into thin wedges

• 1 red capsicum, seeded, thinly sliced

• 1 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup coriander sprigs

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 200°C. Line a baking tray with

& CINNAMON SLICE

baking paper. Combine sweet potato, oil and Cajun seasoning in a large bowl. Arrange in a single layer on lined tray. Bake, turning occasionally, for 30 mins or until sweet potato is tender.

2. Meanwhile, heat a barbecue grill or chargrill on medium. Cook the corn, turning, for 10 mins or until lightly charred and tender. Set aside to cool. Use a knife to cut down the side of the corn to release the kernels.

3. Place the buttermilk, mayonnaise, lime juice and chopped coriander in a small bowl and stir to combine. Season.

4. Place sweet potato, corn, avocado, capsicum, onion and coriander sprigs in a large bowl. Drizzle with the buttermilk dressing and gently toss to combine. Transfer to a serving platter.

INGREDIENTS

• 340g pkt golden buttercake cake mix

• 1 cup (90g) Desiccated Coconut

• 125g butter, melted

• 400g can apple slices

• 300g light sour cream

• 1 tsp cinnamon sugar

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a 20cm square cake pan. Line base and the two opposite sides with baking paper, extending the paper 5cm over edge of pan.

2. Combine cake mix, coconut and butter in a medium bowl. Press mixture evenly over base of prepared pan. Cook for 15 minutes, or until lightly browned. Cool slightly.

3. Spread apple evenly over base, then spread sour cream evenly over apple and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Cook for further 20 minutes, or until sour cream has set.

4. Cool in pan. Cut the slice into fngers to serve. 5m prep 35m cook serves 8

LIME

AND LEMON GRASS PRAWN SKEWERS

INGREDIENTS

• 24 peeled medium green prawns (tails intact)

• 1/3 cup lime marmalade

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 stalk lemongrass, trimmed, thinly sliced

• 3 green onions, cut into 4cm lengths

• 1 large lime, cut into 8 wedges

• 2 tsp vegetable oil

• Extra lime wedges, to serve

• Mint leaves, to serve

Coconut snow pea rice

• 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice

• 165ml can coconut milk

• 2cm piece fresh ginger, peeled

• 100g snow peas, trimmed, thinly sliced diagonally

• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, shredded

METHOD

1. Place prawns in a glass or ceramic bowl. Add marmalade, garlic and lemongrass. Season with salt and pepper. Toss well to coat. Set aside for 10 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, make Coconut snow pea rice: Place rice, coconut milk, ginger and 1 1/2 cups cold water in a medium heavy- based saucepan. Stir well. Cover. Bring to the boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes or until liquid is just absorbed and rice is tender. Fluff rice with a fork. Stir in snow peas. Set aside, partially covered, for 10 minutes. Stir in mint.

3. While rice is standing, thread prawns and onion onto 8 skewers. Thread 1 lime wedge onto end of each skewer. Drizzle with oil.

4. Heat a chargrill pan or barbecue chargrill on medium heat. Cook skewers for 2 to 3 minutes each side or until prawns are pink and cooked through. Serve with rice, extra lime wedges and mint leaves.

Herbs have long been valued for their culinary, medicinal, and aromatic qualities. Growing your own herbs at home offers a fresh supply of these versatile plants, but to make the most of your harvest, it’s essential to know when and how to pick and preserve them. Whether you’re growing basil, rosemary, thyme, or parsley, understanding the best practices for harvesting and drying herbs will help you maintain their rich favours and potent properties throughout the year.

The Best Time to Harvest Herbs Timing is crucial when it comes to harvesting herbs. To get the most favour and potency, you’ll want to harvest at the right moment in their growth cycle.

1. Morning Harvests: The best time to harvest herbs is in the early morning, after the dew has evaporated but before the sun’s heat intensifes. At this time, essential oils—the compounds responsible for the aroma and favour of herbs—are at their peak.

2. Pre-Flowering Stage: For most herbs, the optimal time to harvest is just before they fower. As herbs

fower, they start diverting energy from leaf production to seed production, which can reduce the concentration of essential oils in the leaves. Keep an eye on your plants, and when you see buds beginning to form, it’s time to start harvesting.

3. Leaf-by-Leaf or Entire Plant: Depending on the herb and your needs, you can harvest individual leaves or entire sprigs. For perennial herbs like thyme or rosemary, you can harvest sprigs throughout the growing season. For annuals like basil or cilantro, you may want to gather the entire plant before the frst frost.

How to Harvest Herbs Properly

Proper harvesting techniques not only preserve the quality of the herbs but also ensure that your plants remain healthy and productive.

1. Use Sharp Scissors or Pruning Shears: Always use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears to cut herbs. This will ensure a clean cut and reduce the risk of damaging the plant or introducing disease.

2. Don’t Strip Too Much: When harvesting perennial herbs, avoid taking more than one-third of the plant at a time. This will allow the plant to continue growing and producing more leaves throughout the season.

3. Focus on New Growth: Harvest from the top of the plant, where the youngest and most favourful leaves are located. This will encourage the plant to produce more branches and leaves, promoting bushier growth.

Storing Dried Herbs

Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the potency of your dried herbs. After drying, herbs should be stored in airtight containers like glass jars or metal

Once you’ve harvested your herbs, the next step is to preserve them through drying. Drying herbs allows you to enjoy their favours year-round, even after the growing season has ended. There are several methods to dry herbs, each with its own advantages.

1. AIR DRYING HERBS

Air drying is one of the simplest and most traditional methods for drying herbs. It works best for herbs with low moisture content, such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, and sage.

• Step 1: Gather the herbs into small bunches. Tie the stems together with string or twine, ensuring the bunches are not too thick to prevent Mold formation.

• Step 2: Hang the bunches upside down in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep them out of direct sunlight, as too much heat can cause the essential oils to evaporate.

• Step 3: Allow the herbs to dry for about 1 to 2 weeks. You’ll know they’re ready when the leaves crumble easily between your fngers.

• Step 4: Strip the leaves from the stems and store them in airtight containers away from light and heat.

2.

OVEN DRYING HERBS

tins. Keep them in a cool, dark place, away from sunlight and heat, as exposure to light and moisture can degrade their favour over time. Ideally, use dried herbs within a year for the best favour, though some herbs may last longer.

Using Dried Herbs in the Kitchen

Once dried, herbs become a versatile addition to your kitchen pantry. Use them to season soups, stews, meats, or vegetable dishes. As a general rule, dried herbs are more concentrated in favour than fresh herbs, so you’ll need about onethird the amount of dried herbs when substituting them for fresh ones in recipes.

Conclusion

Harvesting and drying herbs is a rewarding process that allows you to enjoy the fresh favours of your garden year-round. By knowing when and how to harvest your herbs and selecting the right drying method, you can preserve their essence and favour, ensuring that your kitchen remains stocked with homegrown goodness even in the off-season.

If you’re short on time or live in a humid climate, drying herbs in the oven is a faster method. This method is especially good for herbs like basil, parsley, and mint, which have higher moisture content.

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to the lowest possible temperature (ideally between 32°C and 45°C).

• Step 2: Spread the herb leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Be sure the leaves are not overlapping.

• Step 3: Place the tray in the oven with the door slightly open to allow moisture to escape.

• Step 4: Check the herbs every 10 to 15 minutes to ensure they’re drying evenly. Most herbs will take between 1 to 2 hours to dry completely.

• Step 5: Remove the leaves when they crumble easily, let them cool, and store in an airtight container.

3. DEHYDRATOR DRYING

Using a food dehydrator is a more controlled way to dry herbs, and it’s ideal for those who regularly preserve large batches of herbs. A dehydrator allows for consistent airfow and temperature, which can help preserve the favour and colour of your herbs.

• Step 1: Arrange the herb leaves in a single layer on the dehydrator trays.

• Step 2: Set the dehydrator to its lowest temperature setting (around 35°C to 45°C for delicate herbs, and up to 125°F for sturdier herbs).

• Step 3: Check the herbs after 1 to 4 hours. The drying time will vary depending on the moisture content of the herb and the effciency of the dehydrator.

• Step 4: Once dried, store the herbs in airtight containers to retain their favour.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

Statistics By Stock

CASINO

NRLX MARKET REPORT 18/09/2024

The market showed mixed results, largely depending on the quality of the cattle and the availability of buyers. Weaner cattle (especially steers) performed well, with restockers driving competition. Yearling steers saw strong demand from backgrounders and restockers. Prices for grown steers and cows were somewhat weaker, partly due to reduced buyer competition. The cow market exhibited variable pricing, with heavier cows generally holding their value better than medium weights.

YARDED CATTLE OVERVIEW

Total Yarded: 1,078 cattle, which remained consistent with the previous sale.

Composition:

• A good supply of young cattle and a fair number of cows.

• The young cattle mainly consisted of weaners and a few pens of yearlings.

• The quality of the cattle was mixed, but there were more wellbred cattle compared to the previous sale.

MARKET TRENDS

General Trend: The market generally recovered from last week’s losses, showing an improvement in most sales.

• Weaner Steers: Sold to restockers for 276c to 418c/kg, refecting strong competition for better-quality cattle.

• Weaner Heifers: Sold to restockers for 204c to 348c/kg, showing slightly lower prices compared to steers, as is typical in the market.

• Yearling Steers: Ranged from 305c to 374c/kg, with most

LISMORE

LISMORE CATTLE REPORT OFF THE RAILS BY GLENN WEIR LISMORE SALEYARDS BACK IN ACTION 14/09/2024 & 17/09/2024

The market showed mixed results based on quality and condition, with strong competition on mid-range cows. Heifers generally sold for less than steers, and there was a notable price range for cattle based on their condition and breeding. The sale indicated robust demand for quality young cattle and cows in good condition.

BREEDER SALE HIGHLIGHTS (SATURDAY, 14TH SEPTEMBER)

Cows and Calves:

WARWICK

MC DOUGALL & SONS LIVESTOCK MARKET REPORT FOR WARWICK & DISTRICT - WEEK ENDING 13/09/2024

Cattle numbers were slightly back , sheep and lamb numbers rose as well as pork numbers across the markets this week. The same story is repeating itself, the fnished fresher types going forward are holding their own and may be frmer for some types, whilst the drier, lighter and unfnished types are falling under the averages.

• Bulls av 288.3c/kg topping at 352.2c/kg or $1186.06 to $3359.86

• Cows av 262.2c/kg topping at 315c/kg or $1388.73 to $2535.00

• Feeder heifers av 269.6c/kg topping at 344.2c/kg or $1052.25 to $1843.03

• Feeder steers av 347.8c/kg topping at 380.2c/kg or $1245.66 to $1768.00

• Heifers av 292.7c/kg topping at 349.2c/kg or $1300.18 to $2230.08

• Steers av 322.9c/kg topping at 358.2c/kg or $1774.19 to $2581.32

• Vealer heifers av 282.8c/kg topping at 350c/kg or $733.90 to $1277.50

• Vealer steers av 339.8c/kg topping at 402.2c/kg or $821.67 to $1232.77

• Yearling heifers av 306.6c/kg topping at 350.2c/kg or $549.99 to $1392.04

• Yearling steers av 335.6c/kg topping at 368.2c/kg or $1002.87 to $1715.00

being purchased by restockers and backgrounders (indicating they are not being sold for slaughter but for further fattening and growing).

• Yearling Heifers: Fewer heifers were yarded, and they sold to a top of 284c/kg.

GROWN CATTLE MARKET

Grown Steers:

• There were increased numbers of grown steers, particularly heavy weights.

• Prices were down by 10c to 15c/kg due to the absence of a buyer at the sale, and most steers sold from 310c to 330c/kg.

Grown Heifers:

• The quality of the cows and calves varied, with many showing signs of winter.

• The top pen (Angus x cows with big calves) sold for $2,000.

• Most cow-calf pairs sold for $1,300 - $1,600, depending on breed and age.

• Lighter conditioned cows with dry calves were sold for $500$850.

Pregnancy Tested in Calf (PTIC) Cows and Heifers:

• Speckle Park youngsters topped at $1,700.

• Angus x and Brangus x lines fetched $1,500.

• 2-year-old heifers PTIC sold mostly between $1,000 - $1,400. SALE ON TUESDAY, 17TH SEPTEMBER

Bulls:

• The top bull fetched $2,555.

Heavy Cows:

• Good conditioned cows sold for $2.70 - $2.84 per kilo.

• Mid-range cows, with strong competition between re-stockers

• 1155 head av $1141.83 for a gross return of $1.3 million

• Lambs topped at $231 to av $154.60 ($14 down)

• Hoggets topped at $157 to av $94.87 ($50 down)

• Ewes topped at $110 to av $65.25 ($19 down)

• Wethers topped at $119 to av $81.56 ($2 up )

• Ram Lambs topped at $174 to av $104.64 ($12 down )

• Rams topped at $130 to av $109.97 ($6 up )

• Sale av was $125.72 for a gross return of $293000 Pig & Pork numbers increased this week to put some oomph! back in the market.

Boars sold from $80 to $280, Sows from $270 to $400, Gilts to $251, Baconers to $195, Pork to $205, Stores from $44 to $225 Poultry numbers were up as itis the frst week of the School holidays and what better place to take the kids than the local Wednesdays sales.

Roosters sold to $25, Hens to $35, Pullets to $42.50, Chickens to $27.50, Guinea Fowl to $20, Drakes to $30. Groups of Goslings sold to $65, Java Finches sold to $22.50, Budgies (not the smugglers ) sold to $52.50, Hen & Chicks sold to $65.

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

A larger yarding of Sheep & Lambs hit the market this week with Agents and Vendors working to return a positive result. The yarding of 2331 was a mixed and varied supply of both lambs and mutton. The majority of the lambs to meet the market were either too light or not forward enough. The lots that were in good buckle for the export and trade buyers were at a premium, with the bulk in either secondary rating or back to the paddock. Mutton was the same with a few heavy end types holding up the averages.

Lambs topped at $231 to av $154.60 ($14 down ), Hoggets topped at $157 to av $94.87 ($50 down), Ewes topped at $110

• Sold up to 308c/kg, showing slightly lower prices compared to the steers.

COW MARKET

Price Variation: The cow market was mixed, with prices either holding frm or being 10c cheaper for heavy cows.

• Medium weight 2-score cows: (lower-quality) sold from 232c to 260c/kg.

• 3-score medium weight cows: averaged 269c/kg.

• Heavy 4-score cows: (better-quality) sold from 277c to 297c/kg, with a pen of young heavy cows topping the market at 309c/kg. BULLS

• Heavy Bulls: Sold up to 294c/kg.

and meat operators, sold in the range of $2.30 - $2.60 per kilo.

Young Cattle:

• There was a wide variation in quality and condition among the 630 young cattle.

• Good yearling steers sold for $3.45 - $3.75 per kilo.

• Weaner steers fetched between $3.80 - $4.30 per kilo for the better lines, while the less desirable ones sold for $2.70 - $3.40 per kilo.

Weaner Heifers:

• Prices were generally lower than for steers by about $1.00 per kilo.

• The better lines of heifers sold between $3.00 - $3.36 per kilo, while plainer types sold between $1.80 - $2.60 per kilo.

UPCOMING SALES AT LISMORE SALEYARDS

• Tuesday 1st October - meatworks, weaners from 7.30am

• Saturday 26th October - Breeder Sale from 9am (date to be confrmed)

to av $65.25 ($19 down), Wethers topped at $119 to av $81.56 ($2 up ), Ram Lambs topped at $174 to av $104.64 ($12 down ), Rams topped at $130 to av $109.97 ($6 up ). The total yarding of 2331 av $125.72/head a drop of $23/head on last week.

• Wes Sloan sold shorn Merino wethers 78.8kg to Eversons for $119, unshorn Dorset x ram to restockers for $92

• Bellvue Agriculture Co sold Aussie White Rams 66kg to restockers for $128, 55kg ram lambs to Take IT Easy Meats for $115, 57.5kg Ram hoggets to Whites Trading for $105

• Tim, Mary & David Turvey sold Dorper lambs 54.8kg to Thomas Foods for $201, 52.5kg hoggets to Take IT Easy Meats for $144, Ewes to Whites Trading for $80 and Eversons for $70, and McIntyre Meats for $50

• Ros & Rex Lipp sold Dorper lambs 50kg to Everson’s for $198

• Paul King sold Dorper lambs 49.1kg to restockers for $190, 44kg to GR Prime for $162.50

• Stanthorpe High School sold Dorset x lambs 44.5kg to Carey Bros for $142

• Marty & Margie Kerlin sold Suffolk lambs 67.5kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $231

• Will Bazley & Vanessa Mc Donald sold Dorset lambs off crop 54.1kg to Thomas Foods for $206, 52kg to Eversons for $195, Ewes to Eversons for $110, and restockers for $72

• Warren & Wendy Schelbach sold Dorper lambs 44.2kg to Sommerville Meats for $189 and Young Meats for $188

• Glen & Emma Muller sold Dorper lambs 55.7kg to Leslie Lamb for $206

• Cooinda P/S sold Dorper x lambs 36.6kg to restockers for $80, 30.6kg to restockers for $56, Merino x lambs 30kg to GR Prime for $64, to restockers for $52, 30kg hoggets to MC Intyre Meats for $26, 36kg hoggets to restockers for $68, ewes to McIntyre Meats for $40

Upgrading Fire Trails Ahead of Bushfre Season

The Minns Labor Government has launched a comprehensive initiative to inspect and upgrade fre trails across New South Wales ahead of the upcoming bushfre season. These helicopter inspections will help prioritize the maintenance needed to protect lives and communities, with a focus on ensuring rapid access for frefghting crews.

The inspections began in the Sydney region and will continue across the state throughout September. Conducted by Crown Lands in partnership with the Rural Fire Service

(RFS), the initiative will cover more than 540 fre trails, spanning 2,400 kilometres of Crown land and adjoining areas.

To support these efforts, the NSW Government has allocated over $7.9 million in 2024-25 for on-ground maintenance and upgrades of strategic fre trails on Crown land. Additionally, $4.8 million has been set aside for hazard reduction activities, including controlled burns and Asset Protection Zone (APZ) maintenance, aimed at safeguarding communities from bushfres.

Helicopter inspections offer a faster and more effcient method of monitoring fre trails, especially in remote

and inaccessible areas.

These aerial patrols can cover terrain that would take months to inspect by ground vehicle in just a few weeks, providing a timely and comprehensive assessment of the fre trail network.

The helicopters are equipped with cameras to record areas that require follow-up work, such as clearing fallen trees, addressing erosion, and repairing creek crossings.

Following these aerial assessments, Crown Lands works with the NSW Soil Conservation Service and the RFS to prioritize and execute the necessary maintenance.

Maintenance work may include clearing vegetation, repairing

erosion, stabilizing fre trails, and improving vehicle access by constructing passing bays. In some locations, additional measures like installing signage, gates, and bollards will be implemented to prevent unauthorized access and illegal dumping.

Residents concerned about potential bushfre hazards are encouraged to contact the Rural Fire Service for assistance.

Offcial Statements

Minister for Lands and Property, Steve Kamper, emphasized the importance of maintaining fre trails to protect both frefghters and communities.

He highlighted that Crown Lands manages approximately 2,400 kilometres of fre trails

and 660 hectares of Asset Protection Zones to ensure adequate fre breaks between bushland and residential areas.

“Properly maintained fre trails are crucial as we head into a potentially dangerous bushfre season,” Kamper said.

Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, added, “These targeted efforts ensure our fre trails are ready for summer, allowing frefghting crews to access these routes quickly and effectively. This work, combined with hazard reduction activities, is key to reducing risks to residents and property.”

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, echoed the importance of preparation, stating,

“These inspections and subsequent maintenance work will ensure that frefghters can reach blazes quickly and effectively, giving them the best chance to protect lives and property.

It’s a vital step as we prepare for the inevitable bushfres this summer.”

The NSW Government is committed to ensuring fre trails are properly maintained to support agencies such as the Rural Fire Service, Fire & Rescue NSW, National Parks and Wildlife Service, and Forestry Corporation in their frefghting efforts. These efforts will help safeguard communities during the upcoming bushfre season.

Statement on New Deforestation Defnition Comments attributable to NFF President David Jochinke

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) congratulates Cattle Australia for its leadership in clarifying what “deforestation” should mean in an Australian context.

As major customers, including the EU and Australian supermarkets, seek to safeguard their supply chains from deforestation, it is crucial that we have a shared defnition grounded in the practical realities of managing Australia’s unique landscape.

Cattle Australia’s work, following rigorous consultation, provides a proactive and constructive framework that the NFF fully supports. This effort will ensure that Australian farmers are aligned

with international expectations while preserving the ability to manage the land effectively.

The initial reactions from Greenpeace and the Australian Conservation Foundation have been less productive.

These organisations continue to promote an outdated, “lock it up and leave” approach, which has proven to be ecologically harmful. Australia’s landscape requires active management, not abandonment, to address

challenges such as invasive species, which are now the largest threat to biodiversity. Active management is also vital to protecting lives, property, and ecosystems from uncontrollable bushfres. Farmers, many

of whom have managed the land for generations, understand these complexities.

Unfortunately, out-oftouch environmental groups seem unwilling to acknowledge the practical and scientifc realities of sustainable

land management. Attempts by these groups to pressure Australian companies into banning sustainable farming practices are misguided and deserve to be called out. The NFF commends the Government and retailers for their continued engagement with industry on this issue, and for working collaboratively to fnd solutions that are both ecologically and economically sustainable.

We look forward to ongoing constructive dialogue as we work towards a more informed and balanced understanding of deforestation and land management in Australia.

IAN ROGERS

By Helen Trustum

The frst school at Tuckurimba was built in the year 1890. It was built where Ray Hunts home is now on land owned by Mr Baxter. The building materials were landed by paddle- wheel barge on what was called Baxter’s low bank, now owned by Ray Hunt. The Tuckurimba residents got together with horses and slides to bring the material to the building site. As time went on, land was cleared and

the population grew, the Department cancelled the old site and purchased two acres of land off the same owner Mr Baxter and built a new school where it remained until it closed in 1975. When the new school opened in 1896 there were 23 pupils – 5 Prestons, 4 Gaudrons, 3 Keehans, 2 Milgates, 2 Baxters and 1 Crisp, plus a few more.

There were 5 teachers in the old school – Miss Cameron who rode a horse from Tucki Tucki;

Mr Edwards who rode from Gundurimba; Miss Campbell rode from Buckendoon; Mr Duncan boarded with the Kennedy’s and Mr Sharpe who boarded with Mr Robertson.

A few years went by without any picnic days as there was no money and no transport. The parents had to pay 3d a week school fees for every child and found that hard to meet. In later years the sugar industry started up and more money came to the

district. The residents decided to hold picnic days and by that time Mr Gaudron had oranges and bananas growing. He would get an order for one pound of fruit consisting of 10 dozen oranges and 15 dozen bananas. This fruit would be used for sporting prize: 1st prize being an orange, 2nd prize a large banana and 3rd prize a small banana. People would arrive travelling by horse and drays, others on horse and slide, or they would walk and

carry the food with them.

In March 1917, the name of the school was changed to Delelvin.

Three months later the school was changed back to Tuckurimba.

In 1972 four men were presented with Life Membership badges of the Tuckurimba P and C in recognition of over 150 years of combined membership and executive positions held. They were Messrs. George Hunt, Richard Holme, and two brothers: Henry and Hamilton

McCaughey. The badges were presented by the North Coast Director of Education, Dr J. R. Joyce. Tuckurimba P and C was formed on 9th June 1930 with Mr George Hunt and Mr Hamilton McCaughey being two of the original offce bearers. Mr Jack Dolby, another of the association’s original offce bearers had recently passed away. The Empire Day Picnic held on the 24th May each year was a very popular day for all. A

Tuckurimba School - 1924

Tennis Court in School ground taken in 1925

George Maxwell batting for Tuckurimba - 1935

guest speaker would address the children followed by a great sports day. The annual Christmas Tree and concert was always a popular event on the calendar. Many books were purchased by the P and C for the school library.

The school children took part in Inter School Sports where John Riches went to Sydney to compete while other pupils represented the school at Zone Sports in Lismore.

Tuckurimba ReForestation Area

In the early 1930’s a move initiated by Hamilton McCaughey to have a piece of land near the school dedicated as a public reserve.

At the June meeting in 1931 the Tuckurimba P. and C. Association it was decided to apply to the Gundurimba Shire for the control of the crown land opposite the school consisting of 2 acres. The main purpose was to clear the undergrowth of lantana, wild bamboo and sally wattle. In 1936 the area was passed for the establishment of a school forest. By 1938, after several working bees were held, the control was in the hands

of the Tuckurimba school teacher, Mr Archibald Campbell.

The P. and C. planted 100 hoop pines and water gums with the help of the school children. Successive plantings were made in the following years to 1941. In 1957 when the children of Tuckurimba School plus the P. and C. became aware that the koalas in the district were in danger of extinction, spaces in the area were flled with eucalypts donated by Hamilton McCaughey. By 1957 the trees had grown to 45 to 50 feet high. A large working bee was held to cut the trees out was arranged by the present teacher Jim Ormond, to enable the more vigorous to grow and develop into mill logs. The cut pines were sold to Lismore Case Mill managed by Mr A.K. Barnes. Teachers associated with the project were – Archibald Campbell, Emil Agst, Norman Baker, William Blevin, Wesley Keast and Jim Ormond.

Another 2 acres of land was donated by John Scott, making 4 acres of Re-Forestation.

Ref: RRHS in Lismore.

Teachers who have served at Tuckurimba

Name Date Appointed.

Miss Johanna Cameron 2/12/1890

Converted to a Public School from 1st April 1891. Mrs Benjamin Edwards 4/3/1893

Ernest Duncan 31/1/1895

Miss Mary Campbell 31/11896

Ernest A, Sharpe 17/6/1898

Ernest Kearns 18/8/1911

Arthur Simpson 2/4/1917

Norman Crook 3/9/1920

Stuart Rogers (relieving) 17/1/1923 to 28/6/1923

John Hensley 13/2/1930

Francis Stack 9/1/1931

Michael Fahey 13/1/1933

Wesley Watson 13/12/1933

Archibald Campbell 4/1/1937

Arthur Holmwood 6/9/1939 to 10/11/1939

Emil Agst 13/12/1940

Arthur Holmwood 13/9/1945

John Joyce 2/4/1946

Norman Baker 10/1/1947

William Blevin 3/2/1948

Wesley Keast 29/1/1952

William Bondfeld /2/1954

James Ormond 1/2/1955

Chris Bosse 1/2/1971 Tuckurimba School closed in 1975.

By Helen Trustum

Arbour Day at Tuckurimba - Aug. 1933 Mr Ted Jenner, Mrs Emma McCaughey, Mr Herb Hunt, Mrs Margaret Maxwell, Mr W. Threlfo

Fred and John Riches riding horseback to school - late 1950’s

Re -Forestation Area

Tuckurimba School

First Prize to Charles Maxwell

Why We Took Our Message to Canberra

BY NFF PRESIDENT, DAVID JOCHINKE

Last week, the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) delivered a powerful message to Canberra, as thousands of farmers and supporters from across Australia gathered for the historic National Farmer Rally. This wasn’t just a show of numbers; it was a collective call to action, urging our nation’s leaders to give farmers the representation they deserve in shaping agricultural policy.

For far too long, decisions about agriculture have been made without meaningful consultation with those who know the land best—the farmers who work it every day. At the rally, we addressed pressing issues, such as the proposed live sheep export ban, water buybacks in the Murray-Darling Basin, the Diesel Fuel Rebate,

and the burdensome red tape around emissions reporting.

Our message was clear: farmers need practical, forwardthinking solutions, not ideologically driven agendas. This rally wasn’t about politics, but about crafting policies that will allow Australian agriculture

to thrive. Unfortunately, we’ve seen outof-touch activists pushing for restrictions that would reduce Australia’s food and fbre production, often without considering the economic and social implications for our regional communities.

Farmers are ready to work with all sides of

politics to ensure that agricultural policies promote sustainability, enhance productivity, and support rural communities. It’s time to push back against the rhetoric that undermines our industry and focus on solutions that keep farmers farming.

The support from thousands who attended,

along with many others who backed us from afar, sent a powerful message that cannot be ignored. This rally marks the beginning of a larger campaign to ensure farmers’ voices are not only heard but respected in policy discussions.

To all Australians, I say this: when farmers thrive, the

entire nation benefts. We are the backbone of food security, the heart of regional Australia, and a critical driver of the national economy. Supporting Australian agriculture is an investment in the country’s future, and we must reject the harmful agendas that threaten to diminish our industry.

The voice of rural Australia was heard loud and clear in Canberra. Now, it’s time for action. We stand ready to collaborate with policymakers to develop a vision for Australian agriculture that ensures a sustainable, productive, and prosperous future for farmers and the nation.

Petition: Sign the petition, scan the QR Code.

darryl@graftonhyd.com.au

NFF President David Jochinke

The Minns Government has announced the expansion of its innovative $33 million Farms of the Future Agtech program to 2028, aimed at helping farmers across New South Wales improve productivity and connectivity through cutting-edge agricultural technology. The program is expected to boost on-farm productivity by up to 25%, equating to a potential $3 billion increase in Gross Value of Production (GVP) per year.

The Farms of the Future program

supports the adoption of agricultural technology (Agtech), which encompasses a wide range of innovations such as real-time monitoring devices for weather, soil moisture, and water supplies, as well as automation, robotics, and digital solutions to improve farm management. Initially focused on 11 Local Government Areas (LGAs), the program is now open to all farmers across NSW. It aims to address key barriers such as on-farm connectivity, digital capability, unclear

benefts, and poor user experience, which have previously hindered the adoption of Agtech. Changes to the expanded program include:

• Industry-specifc training courses that cover the fundamentals of new technology, ensuring farmers can confdently adopt and implement Agtech solutions.

• Demonstration Hubs at 10 Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) research stations across NSW, where farmers can

observe Agtech in action on real farms.

• Agtech Alley, a designated space for Agtech suppliers at major feld days, allowing farmers to directly connect with technology providers.

• The Agtech Toolbox, an extensive resource with articles, case studies, and how-to videos designed to help farmers better understand and use available technologies.

NSW Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, emphasized

$33 Million Agtech Program Expanded to Support More NSW Farmers

the importance of the program in helping farmers embrace Agtech, stating, “These changes are about helping more farmers reap the enormous benefts of Agtech, including increased productivity, better farm management, and greater connectivity.”

Case Study: Michael and Helen Payten’s ‘Alfalfa’ Farm Michael and Helen Payten, who run a mixed enterprise farm outside Canowindra in Central Western NSW, are among the benefciaries of the program. Their 1,180-hectare farm, which includes cropping and sheep pastures, has adopted several

technologies, including a spray advisory system and weather station.

Michael Payten highlighted the spray advisory system as a key beneft, noting how it helps determine optimal spraying windows by combining crucial data, reducing the risk of poor crop outcomes. Helen Payten also praised the tank monitoring system, which provides alerts for sudden drops in water levels, giving them peace of mind regarding their livestock and household water supplies.

For more information on the Farms of the Future Program, visit the offcial website.

TAFE NSW Showcases In-Demand Agriculture Careers at Henty Machinery Field Days

TAFE NSW is taking centre stage at the Henty Machinery Field Days, encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in the booming agricultural sector. With the industry facing an ongoing skills shortage, TAFE NSW is stepping up to play a crucial role in addressing the workforce gap and preparing future agricultural workers for a sector undergoing rapid technological change.

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has highlighted the importance of TAFE NSW in its roadmap, which aims to grow the agricultural workforce by 25 per cent over the next decade. As part of this effort, TAFE NSW is showcasing a range of training pathways at southern Australia’s largest agricultural fair, which runs from 17 to 19 September.

The TAFE NSW Primary Industries Centre has maintained a strong presence at the Henty Field Days

for more than 35 years.

This year’s exhibition is one of the largest ever, featuring seven “junior judging stations” where attendees can learn about various aspects of agriculture, including beef genetics, sheep production, crops and pastures, animal studies, and wool production.

Local students from primary and high schools are invited to participate and gain insight into how TAFE NSW’s agriculture courses can lead to fulflling careers in the sector.

In addition to interactive displays, the TAFE NSW site includes live demonstrations of shearing, horticulture, domestic pet frst aid, and virtual welding technology. Current TAFE NSW Certifcate IV and Diploma agriculture students are also attending the event to network with industry leaders and explore the latest advancements in farm equipment, machinery, and services. According to the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and

Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES), the agricultural industry reached a record value of $80 billion in 202223. Recognizing the importance of upskilling, the NSW Government has extended the AgSkilled program, an initiative designed to prepare the agricultural workforce for the future by focusing on training in innovation, research, and technology.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, emphasized the importance of investing in the agriculture workforce to meet future demand. “Agriculture is a rapidly changing industry, and whether it’s in technology, working the land, or in a lab, there are so many exciting career opportunities.

TAFE NSW’s close collaboration with agricultural employers ensures training is relevant and meets the industry’s evolving needs.”

The Riverina-Murray region, which contributes the most to agriculture

production in NSW, is home to two TAFE NSW specialist campuses—the Primary Industries Centre and the National Environment Centre— both of which are integral to training future agricultural workers.

Rob Harris, Head Teacher of Agriculture at the TAFE NSW Primary Industries Centre, emphasized the value of the Henty Field Days as a platform for

showcasing pathways into agriculture. “It’s an ideal opportunity to demonstrate how TAFE NSW equips students with the real-world skills needed to launch their careers in agriculture.

Our campuses provide hands-on learning experiences on working farms, enabling students to engage with the latest technology and start their careers with confdence.”

TAFE NSW’s presence

at the Henty Machinery Field Days highlights the crucial role of education and training in ensuring the long-term success of the agriculture industry. By equipping future workers with the skills and knowledge needed for a dynamic and evolving sector, TAFE NSW is helping to secure the future of Australian agriculture.

IAN ROGERS

NSW Government Issues Control Order to Protect Horticulture from Devastating Virus

In a decisive move to safeguard New South Wales’ lucrative tomato, capsicum, and chilli industries, the Minns Labor Government has issued a Control Order aimed at reducing the risk of the highly contagious tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) from entering the state. The virus, confrmed for the frst time in Australia in August 2024 in tomato crops near Adelaide, poses a signifcant threat to the nation’s $5.8 billion vegetable and $2.8 billion plant nursery industries.

Though NSW remains free of the virus, the Control Order restricts the import of high-risk produce—such as tomatoes, capsicums, and chillies—from affected properties in South Australia, where the outbreak was frst detected. Additionally,

restrictions will apply to properties linked to the infested sites to prevent the virus from spreading beyond its current containment.

Efforts to Eradicate the Virus

The tomato brown rugose virus has thus far been found in four greenhouses on three South Australian properties. These greenhouses are enclosed, aiding containment efforts and control measures as authorities work to eliminate the virus. The enclosed nature of the greenhouses has been pivotal in preventing further spread of the virus.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is collaborating with industry stakeholders, international experts, and authorities from other states and territories to maintain NSW’s diseasefree status. Extensive

surveillance is ongoing, not only in NSW but also in South Australia and other regions, as the country takes measures to halt the virus in its tracks.

Potential Threat to Australia’s Agriculture

ToBRFV, frst discovered internationally in 2014, is notorious for being a highly infectious plant virus. It severely affects crops, causing visible damage to leaves and fruit, which can render produce unmarketable. While the virus does not affect human health or food safety, it can devastate crops, leading to signifcant economic losses for growers.

Symptoms of the virus include mosaic and mottled patterns on leaves, yellowing and deformities, and fruit with brown wrinkled spots, marbling, or uneven ripening. These symptoms, however, are not unique to ToBRFV,

and laboratory testing is required to confrm the presence of the virus.

Biosecurity Measures and Industry Vigilance

The NSW Government’s Control Order is part of its broader biosecurity strategy to protect the state’s $115 million tomato, capsicum, and chilli industries.

NSW Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, underscored the importance of swift action, stating that biosecurity is a top priority for the state government.

“The NSW Control Order is in place to protect our state from the disease and ensure that the industry can continue to trade safely in fresh produce, seedlings, and seeds,” Minister Moriarty said. She added, “We must remain vigilant. If biosecurity issues arise in other states, we need to act swiftly and decisively to

protect our industries.”

Minister Moriarty encouraged all growers—both commercial and home gardeners—to remain vigilant and report any suspect plants to the authorities. Early detection will be key in preventing any further spread of the virus. She emphasized that while the virus poses no risk to food safety or human health, it could cause severe damage to crops if not contained.

Growers are urged to inspect their crops for signs of infection, including discoloured or deformed leaves and fruit, and report any concerns to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline at 1800 084 881. The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has also made further information available on its website to assist growers in identifying and managing potential

outbreaks.

Looking Ahead

Containment of ToBRFV remains a priority for both NSW and South Australia as authorities work to eradicate the virus from Australia. The collaboration between state departments, industry stakeholders, and biosecurity experts is critical to ensuring that this virus does not further impact the nation’s agricultural industries.

In the meantime, ongoing surveillance, coupled with strict import restrictions, will play a pivotal role in protecting the livelihoods of farmers and ensuring the continued production of high-quality produce across NSW.

For more information on the virus and biosecurity measures, growers and industry participants can visit the NSW DPIRD website.

IAN ROGERS

Funeral Notice

Francis (Frank) Gordon Bienke 12/5/43 – 17/9/24

Passed away at home on Tuesday 17th September 2024, surrounded by his loving family a er a long and courageous battle with motor neurone disease and cancer.

Dearly loved husband of the late Kathleen Bienke (née King), Francis was a devoted and cherished father to Lesley, Colin, James, Cameron, Julian, Maryann and Amie. He was an adored Pop to Rowon, Xavier, Zara, Kaelen, Byron, Noah and Soul, and a valued father-in-law to Chris, Steve, Diana and Miracle.

Son of Annie and Frederick Bienke, Francis and the Bienke family were long-time residents of Byron Bay. Francis was the beloved brother of William, Louis, Velma, Jeanette, Rodney, Narelle, Frederick and Ross, and his surviving siblings Jeanette, Rodney and Narelle.

His love for his family and deep connection to both his family, friends and the community will be fondly remembered by all.

An incredibly caring, generous and cheeky spirit, you showed us all how to live, love and laugh without boundaries and will forever be with us.

Francis will now be laid to rest beside the love of his life Kathleen, reunited in spirit. e love they shared was extraordinary, and their legacy will continue to live on through all of us.

Relatives and friends are invited to honour Francis' life; a service will be held on Monday, September 30 at 12 noon at St. Bartholomew's Anglican Church, 6 e Avenue, Alstonville, New South Wales, where we previously honoured Kathleen. All who wish to celebrate his life with us are welcome to attend.

Frank’s service will be livestreamed, please refer to Parkview Funeral Home website for the details later next week.

Funeral Notice

HALL, Ariel Florence Ruth 23.06.1943 – 19/09/2024

Passed away at Lismore Base Hospital. Loving wife of Errol (dec). Special friend of Simione. Sister of Greg (dec), Darcy and Lorna. Sister-in-law of Clarrie (dec), Zena, Lenore (dec) and Margaret. Loved aunt to her nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends of Ariel are invited to attend her funeral service to be held at the Seventh Day Adventist Church at 77 Pearces Creek Road, Alstonville on Wednesday, 2nd October, 2024 commencing at 11:30am followed by burial at the Alstonville Lawn Cemetery.

Loved by his family, Jess, Indi and Grace. Cherished son of Peter (Dec’d) & Helen. Loving Brother of Noel and his family. Will be sadly missed by all his family, friends, loved ones and colleagues.

Aged 45 Years

“Life on Life’s Terms”

Relatives and friends of Greg are invited to attend the Celebration of his Life, to be held at Lennox Head Cultural Centre, 1 Mackney Lane, Lennox Head on Friday 27th September 2024, commencing at 2.00pm. Greg was a great giver to Charity, therefore in lieu of owers, donations are invited to Mary’s Place Ballina, a new initiative operated and funded by Vinnies. A collection box will be provided for this purpose, at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre door.

Greg’s Celebration of Life service can be also viewed via the Livestream link on the Parkview Funeral Home website.

Funeral Notice

SAENGER, Greg Late of Ballina.

WEATHER

Northern Rivers District:

Mostly sunny. The chance of morning fog in the north. Light winds becoming northerly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening. Thursday. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming southerly 20 to 30 km/h during the morning.

Northern Tablelands District:

Mostly sunny. Winds north to northwesterly 20 to 30 km/h tending west to northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the afternoon then tending north to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the evening.

Thursday. Cloudy. High chance of showers. Winds west to northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h shifting east to southeasterly 20 to 30 km/h during the afternoon.

New South Wales:

Scattered to widespread showers and rain across the inland, extending across the central and southern ranges and to the coast by the evening. A few developing showers along the northern ranges also by the evening. Showers falling as snow above 1600 metres from the late afternoon and into the early evening. Patchy morning fog about the far northern ranges. Daytime temperatures above average about the northern inland, stretching along all of the coastline, with temperatures tending below average in the southwestern inland. Fresh and gusty west to northwesterly winds about the east and northern inland, tending southerly behind the cold front.

Thursday. Scattered to widespread showers stretching from the southeast to the northern inland, expanding towards the northeast of the state throughout the day. Showers falling as snow above 1100 metres. Daytime temperatures above average in the far northeast, elsewhere below average.

Southeast to southwesterly winds, fresh and gusty along the coast.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Northerly 15 to 20 knots increasing to 20 to 30 knots. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, increasing to 1.5 to 2.5 metres during the morning. Swell: Southerly around 1 metre. Weather: Partly cloudy.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: Northerly 20 to 30 knots. Seas: 1.5 to 2.5 metres. Swell: Southerly 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to around 1 metre during the morning. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Northerly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the evening. 1st Swell: Southerly below 1 metre inshore, increasing to around 1 metre offshore. 2nd Swell: East to northeasterly around 1 metre. Weather: Partly cloudy.

Hyundai She’s Electric is back for its third season, offering female surfers aged 16 and over the chance to showcase their skills in an exciting online competition. In partnership with Surfng Australia, Hyundai continues its mission to elevate grassroots female surfers on a national platform. With a share of $58,500 in prizes up for grabs, this is the perfect opportunity for surfers of all abilities to make their mark.

How It Works

To enter, simply record a video of yourself surfng your best wave and submit it online for a chance to win weekly prizes and join the prestigious Hyundai Team Electric. Top performers will receive expert coaching, media exposure, and national recognition. The highestscoring athlete will walk away with $1,000 cash, a 12-month loan of a Hyundai vehicle, and a VIP experience at the Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final in March 2025 with surfng icon Laura Enever. They will also be named a Hyundai ambassador for a year.

Key Dates and Prizes

• The competition runs until 22 November 2024.

• The Top 5 fnalists will be announced later

in the year as Hyundai Team Electric, gaining access to a range of opportunities, including a three-day intensive surf camp at the Hyundai Surfng Australia High Performance Centre (HPC).

• The camp includes surf analysis, workshops with top Australian coaches, and sessions led by pioneers of women’s surfng.

Hyundai Team Electric Benefts

At the end of Season 3, the Top 5 athletes will compete in a knockout surf-off at the HPC.

The overall winner will receive:

• $1,000 in cash

• A 12-month loan of a Hyundai vehicle

• A one-year Hyundai ambassadorship

• A VIP experience at

the Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final alongside Laura Enever

Athletes placing 2nd through 5th will also each receive $1,000 in prize money, giving them a boost toward advancing in the sport.

Hyundai Bright Spark Award

The Hyundai Bright Spark Award returns this season, recognizing a surfer each week who demonstrates passion, courage, and dedication, regardless of the length of their ride. Each winner will receive a custom MF x Laura Enever Collection Palm Springs surfboard, valued at over $700. This award encourages surfers of all skill levels to enjoy the process, embrace wipeouts, and have fun

along the way.

Elevating Women’s Surfng in Australia

Hyundai She’s Electric continues to celebrate and empower female surfers, providing them with the exposure, tools, and support needed to reach their full potential. The initiative is designed to highlight the incredible diversity and talent within Australia’s female surfng community.

Last year’s winner, Rosie Smart, praised the competition for its unique online format.

“It allowed us girls to experiment and push each other without the pressure of a 20-minute heat. The HPC camp was amazing, especially the breath work training, which taught me how to stay calm during

wipeouts. Winning She’s Electric opened new doors for me, including commentating the Australian Boardriders Battle and funding my 2024 Challenger Series campaign.”

Industry Support

Glen Elliott, Surfng Australia’s Manager of Boardrider Clubs and Judging, said, “This initiative continues to highlight the extraordinary talent in women’s surfng. The online format allows surfers from all corners of Australia to participate and be discovered, and we can’t wait to see what Season 3 brings.”

Hyundai Australia CEO, Ted Lee, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Hyundai She’s Electric will continue to unearth the brightest female

BALLINA MAHJONG

RESULTS - FRIDAY, 20TH SEPTEMBER

2024

A fantastic turnout for this week’s Mahjong event in Ballina, with some highly competitive play. Here are the top results:

1st: Joy Lowien

2nd: Lorna Simpson

3rd: Pauline Kearney

4th: Barbara Ellan

5th: Jan Boardman

6th: Sally Lowry

7th: Gail McDonagh

8th (tie): Linda Lloyd, Lisa Wong, Valda McLerie

11th: Cindy Smith, Shirley Atkinson

13th: Ramsay Roper

14th: Val Heinritz

15th: Jan Small

16th: Wendy Thornton

17th: Coral Lavelle

18th: Jane Fenech

19th (tie): Rosemary

Russell, Vanessa Reynolds

21st: Jan Henley, Lynda Lovett

Next Game:

Join us every Friday at 12:30 PM at the Ballina Bridge Club, North Creek Road. New players are always welcome! For inquiries, please contact Shirley at 0423 384 647.

CASINO RSM WOMEN’S BOWLS RESULTS

Julie Creighton & Ivy Watson Crowned

2024 Minor Pairs Club Champions

On Wednesday, September 18th, the frst round of the Major Singles Championships saw two highly competitive matches played on separate rinks. The results are as follows:

• Helen Lavelle

triumphed over Ivy Watson in a closely fought contest.

• Julie Creighton secured a win against Lyn Watson, advancing further in the tournament.

A heartfelt congratulations to the winners on their impressive performances. Meanwhile, on another rink, a spirited social game took place with the following result:

• Raelene Skirrey, Jan Dwyer, and Denise Skinner emerged victorious against Raelene Skirrey, Judy Carthew, and Kaye Jonsson.

We warmly welcome new members to join our vibrant community. If you’re interested in lawn bowls, we meet every Wednesday at the RSM Club from 9:00 AM to

12:00 noon. Come along and enjoy the fun!

CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB

SPORTS RESULTS

Tournaments: Latest Results and Upcoming Events

Gold Coast Tweed Ricochet Tournament

Results:

Division 3:

1st: A. Rawding

2nd: J. Tai

3rd: J. Roberts

4th: J. Wright

5th: C. Parker

6th: P. Singh

7th: V. Smith

8th: F. Wright

Division 4:

1st: M. Robertson

2nd: J. Manning

3rd: M. Pagano

4th: A. Smith

NSW Association

surfng stars in Australia. We’re excited to see the incredible talent that will emerge this season.”

Get Involved

Athlete profles, wave submissions, and competition updates will be featured throughout the event on Surfng Australia’s Instagram page. For full details on how to enter, visit the Surfng Australia website.

Ready to join the action?

Submit your best wave now and you could become part of Hyundai Team Electric, win fantastic prizes, and gain national recognition. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or just love the thrill of riding waves, Hyundai She’s Electric is for you!

Competition Details:

• Promotional Period: 12:01 AM AEST 16/09/24 – 11:59 PM AEDT 11/12/24

• Entry Period: 12:01 AM AEST 16/09/24 – 11:59 PM AEDT 22/11/24

• Open to female Australian residents aged 16+, with a valid driver’s license (learner, provisional, or full).

• Max 1 entry per person per week. For full Terms and Conditions, visit surfngaustralia.com/ sheselectric.

Croquet Singles Silver

Brooch Results:

1st: D. McGrane

2nd: J. Wilson

3rd: R. Flint

4th: T. Woolford Smith

5th: R. Humpherson

6th: L. Rees

Croquet for Kids Event

On Tuesday, October 8th, we are hosting a special “Croquet for Kids” event with a 12:00 PM start. All are welcome to join in on the fun!

For more information, please contact Robyn Poynting at 0414 700 512.

CORAKI VETERANS

GOLF RESULTS

THURSDAY, 19TH

SEPTEMBER 2024

A large feld turned out for the 4BBB Stableford competition with some excellent play throughout

the day. The results are as follows:

Winners: J. Celich & G. Donaldson

RunnersUp: D. Knox & T. Newton

Chicken/Ball Winners:

W. Swindle & B. McDonaly

T. Beemster & G. O’Connor

S. Toms & J. Voght

B. McDonald & T. Doyle

M. Bruggy & W.

Henwood

Nearest the Pins:

3rd/12th: G. Donaldson

6th/15th: W. Henwood

Upcoming Event:

This Thursday will feature an 18hole single Stableford competition, starting with a shotgun at 8:30 AM. After the game, we’ll gather for our monthly barbecue. As always, happy golfng

Rosie Smart was crowned Hyundai She's Electric winner in 2024. Credit: Andy Morris / Surfng Australia

Two time South Grafton Cup winner and favourite for this year’s Big Dance, Cepheus, has died after an injury during track work earlier this month.

The champion eightyear-old only came to Grafton twice, for the South Grafton Cup in 2023 and this year and left with a 100% winning record.

Trained by Matthew Dunn at Murwillumbah and hailing from Great Britain, Cepheus had won more than $2 million for his connections in a stellar career.

Clarence River Jockey Club executive offcer

Michael Beattie said true to form the eight-yearold gelding had gone out a winner, after taking at the $200,000 Rowley Mile at Hawkesbury last month.

“Sadly it also means

we won’t have a Grafton winner racing in the Big Dance,” he said.

Former South Grafton woman and part owner Maree Anderson said it was terrible news for the owners and trainer.

“He won’t get to win that third South Grafton Cup,” Anderson said.

“He had a wonderful spring campaign ahead after winning the Rowley Mile two weeks prior to his death.

“He had champion jock Nash Rawiller, who rode him at this years South Grafton Cup, booked for all his rides. Nash was very upset when he heard he had died.”

Anderson, who was a frequent visitor at the Dunn stable in Murwillumbah, said Cepheus deserved better.

“It was so sad after such a wonderful career, the saddest thing was he never got his deserved retirement in the paddock,” she said.

On social media

Rawiller paid tribute to a horse he had ridden 10 times.

“RIP Old War Horse,” he wrote, while posting a picture of himself on the back of Cepheus.

Beattie described Cepheus as a talented galloper with well above average ability.

He said the loss of Cepheus was terrible luck for Dunn and the horse’s connections.

“He was frming as one of the favourites for the Big Dance after running second last year,” Beattie said.

It shocked the racing world with many people posting messages of support on social media.

“How devastating.

RIP big boy,” wrote racing enthusiast Emma Woodridge.

and tough a beautiful animal,”

And another said in response to Rawiller’s tribute: “Gee mate, after

listening to you on radio yesterday about your spring rides, you must be absolutely shattered ... Shocking turn of events.

Poor bugger.” Cepheus was euthanised after a track work injury on September 10.

“Very sorry to hear this news. Thoughts with the stable staff and owners of this very brave horse,” wrote Bryan Martin from BMR Racing Club.

And another enthusiast said: “Very sad news, heartfelt sympathies to all connections.”

A fan said:“Fly high big boy. Courageous

Nash Rawiller, picture returning to scale on Cepheus after his 2024 South Grafton Cup win, paid tribute to the ‘warhorse’ he had ridden 10 times. The galloper was euthanised after a trackwork injury earlier this month.

Picture right: Part owner of Cepheus, Maree Anderson laps up the victory celebrations after the eight-year-old won his second South Grafton Cup on July 14. Nath Rawiller is the jockey.

TIM HOWARD

ROBERT HEYWARD

The 2024 Australian Longboard Titles wrapped up with a thrilling fnale at Cabarita Beach on the Tweed Coast, crowning champions across all Master divisions. The event, hosted by Surfng Australia, brought a week of exhilarating performances from longboard surfers nationwide.

Surfng Australia Contest Director Glen Elliott celebrated the success of the competition, highlighting the strong camaraderie among competitors.

“It’s been a superb week and a true celebration of Australian longboard surfng. The spirit and sportsmanship displayed by surfers from across the country were outstanding,” Elliott said.

Finals day saw solid surf conditions, with strong winds providing a challenging environment for the competitors. Elliott noted the resilience of the athletes: “The swell held steady, and many of the Masters surfers were exhausted by the

In Week Three of the 2024 NRL Telstra Premiership Finals Series, the action heats up with two exciting Preliminary Finals:

Melbourne Storm vs Sydney Roosters

Date: Friday, September 27, 2024

Time: 7:50 PM (AEST)

Location: AAMI Park, Melbourne

Penrith Panthers vs Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks

Date: Saturday, September 28, 2024

Time: 7:50 PM (AEST)

Location: Accor

Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park

These matches will

end. The assistance of state caddies, who helped surfers navigate the conditions, was invaluable.”

Ten new Australian Longboard Champions were crowned, including Jason Livingston from North Curl Curl, NSW, who took home titles in both the Over 50 and Over 55 Men’s divisions. “The conditions were tough—you duck dive a wave and get pushed back 20 metres. But the competition was ferce, and the Tweed Coast delivered great waves,” said Livingston. Kate Perry from

determine the teams advancing to the 2024 NRL Grand Final.

Fans can watch all the games live on the Nine Network, Fox League, Kayo Sports, 9NOW, and Sky NZ.

Tickets for the general public go on sale from 10 AM on Tuesday, September 24, with prices starting at $39 for individual tickets and $109 for families.

The 2024 NRL Telstra Premiership Grand Final is set for Sunday, October 6, at Accor Stadium in Sydney.

The match will kick off at 7:30 PM (AEST), following the NRLW Grand Final at 3:55 PM. The day will include

Yandina Creek, QLD, claimed the Over 60 Women’s title and placed second in the Over 50 Women’s category. “Winning this title is special. The event brought together passionate surfers from across the country, making it a fantastic experience,” Perry said.

In the Over 65 Men’s division, Tony Abood from Kingscliff, NSW, emerged victorious.

“I got off to a strong start, and although the conditions were challenging, I managed to catch a couple more waves. It’s great to

a range of events, starting with the NRL State Championship Grand Final at 1:20 PM, with gates opening at 1:00 PM. Pre-game entertainment, headlined by The Kid LAROI, will begin at 6:30 PM, setting the stage for the NRL Grand Final showdown Tickets are available for purchase, and the match will be broadcast live on the Nine Network, Fox League, Kayo Sports, and Sky NZ.

Monday 23rd Sptember, As we head into the 2024 NRL Grand Final, the Penrith Panthers and Melbourne Storm are the clear favorites to take home the title. Both teams are tied at

share this win with close friends,” Abood remarked.

The Wayne Deane Spirit of Longboarding Award, recognizing sportsmanship and dedication, was awarded to Matt Inman from Western Australia, praised for his tireless support of fellow surfers. The Overall State Champion title went to New South Wales, followed by Queensland and Victoria.

This year’s event further solidifed the Australian Longboard Titles as one of the premier competitions

in Australian surfng, with the Masters divisions showcasing both the athleticism and community spirit that defne the sport.

2024 Australian Longboard Titles - Finals

Results:

• Over 40 Men: Josh Constable (QLD)

• Over 40 Women: Honey Bec (QLD)

• Over 45 Men: Paul Burke (WA)

• Over 50 Men: Jason Livingston (NSW)

• Over 50 Women: Sue McComb (NSW)

• Over 55 Men: Jason Livingston (NSW)

• Over 60 Men:

odds of $2.30, with the Panthers aiming to secure their fourth consecutive premiership after a strong fnals performance. The Melbourne Storm, known for their consistency, are considered the biggest threat to the Panthers’ dominance (source: Zero Tackle, Sporting News, Bets).

Other teams, like the Sydney Roosters and Cronulla Sharks, are seen as outsiders, with odds of $9.00 and $11.00, respectively(source Ladbrokes, Bets). The fnal showdown promises to be an exciting clash between two of the NRL’s top teams.

As the 2024 NRL Finals approach their climax, several key injuries are impacting the teams. Notable updates include: Victor Radley (Roosters): Radley made a surprise return from a fractured scapula after only three weeks. He played a crucial role in the Roosters’ lineup for the semi-fnal(National Rugby League)(National Rugby League ). Valentine Holmes (Cowboys): Holmes is facing a potential broken leg injury, which could rule him out for 6-8 weeks. This injury likely ends his 2024 season (FOX SPORTS).

Tolu Koula (Sea Eagles): He suffered a head

Robert Smith (NSW)

• Over 60 Women: Kate Perry (QLD)

• Over 65 Men: Tony Abood (NSW)

• Over 70 Men: Peter Becker (NSW)

Overall State Champion:

1. New South Wales

2. Queensland

3. Victoria

4. Western Australia

5. South Australia

6. Tasmania The 2024 Australian Longboard Titles were held as part of the Australian Surf Championships, showcasing the best longboard surfers in the country.

knock, categorizing him under HIA protocols, but teammate Jake Trbojevic, who also underwent an HIA, returned to the feld (FOX SPORTS)(FOX SPORTS).

Jason Saab (Sea Eagles): Saab continues to recover from an ankle injury, which may keep him out of action for the rest of the fnals (FOX SPORTS )(FOX SPORTS ).

These injuries could signifcantly infuence the outcomes of the upcoming preliminary fnals, particularly for teams like the Roosters, Cowboys, and Sea Eagles.

Pictured: Over 60 Women’s Champion, Kate Perry, celebrating her 2024 Australian Longboard Title.

Credit: Hannah Jessup / Surfng Australia

SOUTH CUP WINNING ‘WARHORSE’ DEAD AFTER TRACKWORK INJURY