The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 221

Making sure you are buying Australian-owned products

SAMANTHA ELLEY

How much of your breakfast was 100% Australian-owned this morning?

Did you pour Norco milk on your Weetbix, or spread Mayvers peanut butter on your toast?

Did you put Sunshine Sugar into your tea, or heat up SPC baked beans or spaghetti in a bowl?

A coalition of Australian business owners have joined forces to ensure that consumers know when they are buying true Aussie products from the supermarkets.

“We have done some research,” said Norco Chief Executive, Michale Hampson.

“And what was positive is that 30% of consumers, amidst this costs of living crisis that we are all enduring, have increased their support of what they think are Australian brands and products.

“But 81% of those consumers are actively buying foreign owned products thinking they are Australian owned products.

“This confusion comes from the fact that consumers are relying on the Australian Made logo.”

While Mr Hampson is quick to ensure that the Australian Made logo is good, as it means jobs for people who create that product, and it is better than buying imported.

“But Australian Made does not mean Australian Owned,” he said.

“As foreign countries are able to use this logo too.”

The research went on to

highlight that two thirds of consumers would buy more Australian owned products if they could get that information easily.

we have this critical conversation about the country of ownership labelling,” he said.

“Because supporting

siphoned to offshore investors.”

At 129 years old Norco is still 100% Australian farmer owned, followed

Zealand, Todd Saunders.

“For us the conversation (about Aussie Owned labelling) is a very important one.

It also showed that 75% of consumers believe the country of ownership labelling should be on all food products on supermarket shelves, according to Mr Hampson.

“So, it’s important

Australian companies means we are setting ourselves up, we are helping our farmers, we are helping our communities, and it means 100% of our money stays right here in Australia and not

by Sanitarium which has been around for 126 years.

“I myself am a third generation Sanitarium employee,” said Sanitarium Executive General Manager Australia and New

“We believe that consumers have an aspiration to buy

Australian manufactured and owned.

“Australian Made is good but Australian Made and Owned is great.”

L to R: Kate Gunn, Sanitarium wheat farmer, Todd Saunders, Sanitarium GM, Andrew Wilson, Norco dairy farmer, Michael Hampson, Norco Chief Executive, Bethaney George, Mayver’s Foods CEO.

TIM HOWARD

It has taken 16 preference counts but the Clarence Valley Council makeup has been decided for its next term.

In a similar fashion to 2021 Iluka businesswoman Karen Toms has ridden a wave of preferences into ninth spot, despite not achieving a quota that would have guaranteed her election.

Ms Toms trailed Amanda Brien by about 100 votes on frst preferences, but was able to pull ahead as the counts progressed and was 30 votes in front at the end of counting.

But Ulmarra gallery owner Steve Pickering could not emulate

16 counts put four new faces on council

his 2021 run and was excluded on the 14th count.

The result continues the high turnover of councillors, with four new faces to be sworn in later this month.

South Grafton tattoo shop owner Cristie Yager was the surprise packet of the election, topping the poll at her frst attempt.

Both she and

incumbent mayor Peter Johnstone achieved the quote of 3184 on frst preference votes.

It took only one more count to get former deputy mayor and Greens candidate Greg Clancy to quota, but process slowed from there.

Former Grafton City

Council general manager Ray Smith was the next to hit the magic number on the ninth count.

On count 11 both incumbent councillor Alison Whaites and Warregah Island farmer Shane Causley were elected.

On count 14 Yamba’s Lynne Cairns and

incumbent Debrah Novak achieved their quotas.

The count also represents a change of fortunes for Ms Novak, who achieved her quota on frst preference in 2021.

There were 35,061 ballots counted from a total number of 41,897

people on the rolls. This was a 83.68% turnout.

The vote consisted of

31,834 formal vote and 3,227 informal votes or 9.2% of votes cast.

Councillors will meet to elect a mayor and deputy mayor on October 17.

The NSW Electoral Commission table after distribution of preferences on Monday. The asterisk indicates the councillor was elected without reaching quota.

The four new faces on Clarence Valley Council are Cristie Yager, Ray Smith, Shane Causley and Lynne Cairns. The re-elected councillors are Peter Johnston, Greg Clancy, Alison Whaites, Debrah Novak and Karen Toms.

Tackling the cost of living -

by Janelle Saffn MP, Member for Lismore

Labor Governments at State and Federal level are committed to easing cost of living pressures and this month I have an update on some of the latest measures.

Woolworths and Coles face legal action

Earlier this year I applauded the Federal Albanese Government’s move directing the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to conduct an inquiry into supermarket pricing.

So it is great to see that the ACCC is now taking legal action against supermarket giants Woolworths and Coles for allegedly duping shoppers with phoney price dropping. This is scandalous if proven true … shoppers thought they were getting a bargain only to be ripped off at the cash register.

The ACCC inquiry examined the pricing practices of the supermarkets and the relationship between wholesale, including farmgate, and retail prices.

Farmers, who have been calling out the supermarkets for years have welcomed the court action as a step in the right direction.

Power to the people

There are so many houses that are too hot in summer and too cold in winter and we know the expense of heating and cooling our homes can have a big impact on our energy bills.

I’m pleased to report

the Minns Labor Government has committed $290 million in new funding for an energy strategy to help households and businesses save money and reduce power use.

The Government’s Consumer Energy Strategy: Powering our People and Communities, will make it easier for households and businesses to access energy saving technologies like solar, batteries and energy effciency upgrades

The strategy is a response to the Independent Electricity Supply and Reliability Check-up that the Minns Government commissioned last year.

In 2020 the Parliament passed the Electricity Investment Bill, a climate change strategy and path to renewables for NSW. However that policy lacked a government process involving the

community.

This called for a whole of government approach to our transition to renewables and the Consumer Energy Strategy is the missing piece of the strategy. It is designed around people and communities.

The Government is committed to making it easier for all consumers to save money and cut emissions no matter where you live, or whether you rent or own your home.

A typical house could save an average of $2000 a year and 1100 kilograms of greenhouse gas emissions with energy saving technologies.

Already many households and businesses are active participants in our energy system. New energy technologies and services like batteries and virtual power plants mean consumers can be rewarded for the energy

they generate and can store it for when it is needed most.

The NSW Consumer Energy Strategy outlines 50 actions to help households and businesses including:

• A new incentive and rebate scheme to help households upgrade to energy saving technologies. This will be rolled out by the end of 2025.

• New home energy ratings from 2025 so renters and buyers have more information about the cost of heating and cooling their potential homes.

• Setting the frst targets in Australia for solar and battery uptake.

• Improving the safety and reliability of installations by increasing the number of electrical safety inspectors.

• Providing practical resources so people can make informed decisions to improve energy effciency.

• Boosting consumer rights and protections

The Consumer Energy Strategy comes on top of the $435.4 million for annual energy bill rebates and debt relief, $200 million to support the roll-out of public EV charging stations and $175 million to make energy savings upgrades for 24,000 social housing homes.

The Strategy is available at: www. energy.nsw.gov.au/ energy-strategy

Ballina Shire Council Opens Funding for 2025/26 Festivals and Events

Ballina Shire Council has offcially opened its Festival and Event Sponsorship Program for the 2025/2026 fnancial year. Now in its 14th year, the program provides approximately $120,000 in funding for local festivals and events, reinforcing the Council’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and connected community.

Mayor Sharon Cadwallader emphasized the importance of local events, stating, “Local events and festivals are essential for connecting and uniting our community, bringing positive social and economic benefts that enrich our region.”

To ensure event organisers have ample time to plan, the Council is inviting applications well ahead of the 2025/26 fnancial year. “If you’re planning an event in the Shire or know an organisation that could beneft from this funding, we encourage you to apply early,”

Mayor Cadwallader added.

Eligibility Criteria and Key Information

To be eligible for funding, events must

meet the following criteria:

• The total cost of the event or festival must exceed $20,000.

• The event must be held within the Ballina Shire.

• Applicants must hold adequate public liability insurance.

Applications are open to a variety of events, including some of the region’s most successful festivals, such as:

• Alstonville New Year’s Eve Family Festival

• Love Lennox Festival

• Fair Go (skate competition event)

• Skullcandy Oz Grom Open (junior surfng competition event)

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: Friday, 8 November 2024

• Decision Announcement: December 2024 Council meeting, with applicants informed of the outcome by early January 2025.

For more information, including application forms and funding details, visit the Ballina Shire Council’s website: ballina.nsw. gov.au/FestivalEvents.

Blakebrook blitz competition in soccer knockout

PSSA Small Schools

“Soccer mad!” is how teacher Damian Cootes describes his students at Blakebrook Public School.

As their football coach he is also very proud of the fact that they came home from Sydney last week from the NSW

Soccer Knockout as the grand fnal champions.

“We have a 37-student school at Blakebrook and 14 of them were in the soccer team,” he said.

“Any break times we have, they are playing soccer.”

In the competition, the team played four

games in the lead up to the fnals then had their semi-fnals and grand fnal on the same day.

“It was massive,” said Damian.

“So much nervous energy and excitement leading up to the frst game.

“Our goal was just to be able to get to Sydney.

Men’s Health Education Rural Van visits Casino

Upper Richmond

Rotary Club in Casino 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 Upper Richmond, is coming to Casino.

FREE – 10minute –health checks which cover blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Originally targeted to men, women are also encouraged to take advantage of the FREE screening whilst they can. Everyone is busy and time is not always a priority to plan a trip to the doctor for a checkup.

Mherv is operated by the Rotary Club of Warners Bay in collaboration with the local NSW Rotary Clubs and other local community

organisations and has operating for over 6 years, travelling regional and rural NSW. The service is offered in a relaxed, confdential and informal setting. The mherv Registered nurse conducts the tests and discusses any health concerns seated in the privacy of the van.

Mherv screenings have saved many lives and improved health outcomes for many men and women throughout NSW.

You are invited to take the opportunity to have a quick, free health

“They blitzed the other team, and the fear was they would be ruined for the grand fnal.”

In the semi-fnals, Blakebrook played against Willow Tree Public School, a small school north of Scone.

“The semi-fnal match against Willow Tree Public School was a testament to our talent

and determination (and we) secured a resounding 7-2 victory,” said Damian.

Later that day, the team gathered their energy to face Spring Hill Public School, from west of Bathurst.

“Despite the fatigue from the previous match, our players dug deep and displayed incredible

resilience,” Damian said.

“The fnal score of 6-3 was a testament to their unwavering spirit and commitment.”

The team made the long trip back from Sydney, all with a medal each and a determination to be back-to-back champions in 2025.

check. Just ten minutes invested with mherv can save your life or the life of someone you love. This FREE service will be available for walk-ins for men and women on the following dates:

FRIDAY 4th October – full day clinic (9:30am to 4:15pm)

SATURDAY 5th

October – full day clinic (9:30am to 4:15pm)

VENUE: COLES

Carpark, Corner Hickey and Canterbury Streets, Casino

Dousing their coach Damian Cootes. All photos contributed.

Enjoying their medals. All photos contributed.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

Unity the challenge for next Clarence mayor

TIM HOWARD

Maintaining unity and discipline in the next Clarence Valley Council will be a major challenge facing whoever becomes the next mayor in two weeks time says local election analyst Craig Howe.

Mr Howe, a former deputy mayor on the council and an enthusiastic pundit at election time, said the leading contenders for the role, incumbent Peter Johnstone and newcomer Ray Smith were kidding themselves if they thought they had support locked in at this early stage.

He said from his experience of running in council elections the phones of all the successful candidates would be running hot from now until the mayor vote on October 17.

“Their phones will be running hot and they’ll be getting offers and be promised the world if they if they support this or that candidate,” he said.

“I can remember from council elections I was getting phones calls all the time, with all sorts of offers and I don’t doubt the same would be happening now.

“In fact I know from talking to a couple of people it’s already started.”

And Mr Howe said the contest for mayor may not remain a two-horse race.

“There might be others

“And even if either Peter or Ray get up, they basically have a council split fve-four, whichever way it goes.”

Mr Howe said he was not convinced Mr Johnstone, who was mayor for the last 12 months of the previous term, was experienced enough in the job.

He said from his frst outing, the fery meeting at Grafton in front of a packed, placard-wielding gallery, he had not been convincing.

just waiting to see who actually does get on the council,” he said.

“I know Debrah (Novak) likes to throw her hat in the ring, but at the moment she might be waiting to see if she’s elected.”

Ms Novak said she had not made a decision and would wait until the councillors had been elected.

“I haven’t given it any thought as I don’t know if I am even elected yet,” she said last week.

“The bottom four can change dramatically on the back of the distribution of preferences and postal votes.

“That’s what happened last time with Peter Ellem and Steve Pickering.

“Ellem was bumped out and Pickering came in from position 11 or 12 to take position 9.”

Mr Howe said the personalities in the mix at the moment would

make the next council a challenge for whoever was elected as mayor.

“There are people in there who just don’t like each other,” he said.

“And then you have people coming in, like

“I know he had a rugged start to his term, but he put his hand up for it,” he said.

“You’ve got to assume he knew what was on the agenda. You’ve got to own it.”

But he said the alternative at the moment was also an unknown

Lynne Cairns, who we know already have a gripe with some people on council.

quantity, despite his extensive experience in local government.

“Ray was a general

manager for a long time and you’d think he’s across all the rules and regulations,” he said.

“He’s sat in enough council meetings to know what’s involved running a good meeting, but as we saw with the last council, that doesn’t guarantee a good outcome.”

But Mr Howe said change might be the best way forward for the council.

“After the last council, where everyone seemed to want to be boss, going a new way might bring the stability the council needed.

“Basically all that gave us was a mayor with about two year’s experience on council and a deputy mayor (Jeff Smith), who’d had enough and didn’t stand for re-election,” he said.

Mr Howe said how the preferences fell would be decisive, but said it was so hard to predict because not many candidates used how to

If you or somebody you love is reaching a major birthday or wedding

vote cards.

“Increasingly people have been ignoring them, to the point where many candidates didn’t bother, but it did give you an idea of a potential make up the council,” he said.

“You could see who each councillor might be wanting to work with.”

He said voters making their own choices made preference fows more diffcult to predict and encouraged other groupings.

“You’re hearing things like votes supporting female candidates for example, that make it harder to say where the vote might go.”

The distribution of preferences for the Clarence Valley Local Government election began at 12.45pm on Monday.

If possible it will be included in this edition of The Northern Rivers Times. If not check online at https:// thenorthernriverstimes. com.au

Incumbent mayor Peter Johnstone had a rugged start to his mayoral term and was tested with a divided council during his 12 months at the helm.

The only obvious challenger for mayor now is former Grafton City Council general manager Ray Smith, who offers 30 years of leadership in local government, from the staff side of council.

A possible outsider could be Debrah Novak, who put her hand up for mayor twice during the last term of council. She said had not considered running and would wait until the election was over.

TIM HOWARD

A former high school teacher and Clarence Valley artist is about to launch an exhibition he claims will be a frst in art education.

Artist, teacher and sports coach Graham Mackie has put together an exhibition of artwork from students he taught during his his 23-year teaching career from 1974 to 1997.

Mr Mackie, as he was known during his time teaching art at Maclean High school between 1981 and 1997 said he was curating a unique and unusual art exhibition which brought together his former HSC art students who are now professional or practising artists in their own right. On display will be their current works as well as a number of Year 12 art major works from the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.

Mr Mackie started

Pupils subject of teacher’s exhibition

his teaching career at Dubbo South High School in 1974 after completing his studies at the National Art School and Sydney Teachers College.

His frst Year 12 was in 1975 when three students were selected for the prestigious Art Express followed by four in 1977, one in 1978 and two in 1979.

He was then posted to Maclean High School in 1981 but chose to play league cricket in England and spent the following year at Fairfeld High School in Sydney as penance.

He returned to Maclean High School in 1983 where he taught until he left in 1997, when he took up the job of head coach of the Gold Coast District Cricket Club. In 2001 Graham moved back to Yamba and then bought a property in 2003 where he set up Coombadjha Art Studio and Gallery on

the picturesque Mann River above the Clarence Valley Gorge where he now breeds Wagyu cattle and paints in his studio.

These former students showcase a rich tapestry of talent with a diverse range of artistic abilities in such areas as graphic design, painting, photography, fashion, flm making and sculpture.

Artists exhibiting include from Dubbo: Terry Shaw, Fiona Shanley, Mike Lincoln, Bizzi Mason, Andrew Engel, Jack Randell, Leanne Medcalf, Sandi Thatcher, Grant Hunt, Phil Limon.

Fairfeld: Mariella Gussoni.

Maclean: Leigh McGrath, Chantal Kirby, Michelle Fleming, Micheal Muggleton, Gareth Charlton, Shannon Doyle, Adrian Wiseman, Marcus Greig, John Howland, Ben Ross, Karen Harvey, Deb Breckenridge,

Graham Mackie at work at his Coombadjha Art Studio and Galley in the Clarence Valley above the Mann River. He is preparing to launch and exhibition of artwork done by students he taught over three decades at the Old Kirk Gallery in Yamba later this month.

Frances Belle Parker, Jason Anderson, Kahlua Charlton, Al Stark, Nathan Lipscombe, Tanya Edgerton, Kate Collingburn, Jacqui Hinshaw, Danielle Young, Nicky Fletcher, Tashi Dawa.

Mr Mackie said this sort of collective concept

had probably never been attempted before in the world of art education and should provide a sense of achievement for students in those classes and to see their development fourish over the last 50 years. It will be opened by the director of Grafton

Regional Gallery, Sarah Gurich, on Friday October 18 at 5.30pm at the Old Kirk Gallery, River St Yamba.

“ART 1 ” is open to the public until Sunday November 17 during Yamba Museum opening hours.

GZM 4X4 SUPPLIES & VEHICLE REMAPPING

Labor recently voted down reinstating Norco milk in our local hospitals

1. Labor recently voted down reinstating Norco milk in our local hospitals. This is an outrageous betrayal of our local farmers and the workers at Norco.

This could have real consequences, including job losses and reduced income, for the 191 farming families and the hundreds who work for our local co-operative.

Norco has been the long-standing milk supplier for health facilities from Tweed Heads to Port Macquarie. Please keep the pressure on Labor by signing this petition: http://savenorcomilk. com.au

2. The Lismore Workers Club has recently re-opened. Over 2 years on and nearly $20 million later, the Workers Club has reopened. This is truly a wonderful day for our community.

It looks great, there is a spacious lounge area above the foyer with three large windows that allow natural sunlight into the club. A refurbished ground foor entrance, a river-themed design, a new pizza and pasta bar alongside the

bistro, upgraded bars, sports screens, and improved amenities.

The Auditorium seats over 600 people, just in time for our upcoming school formals. Congratulations to Steve and the team and

3. Great to be celebrating the Tucabia-Copmanhurst Crickey Club’s 50th

anniversary. Guest speaker Kerry O’Keeffe told many stories of cricket and his life.

Thank you President Derek Woods, Vice President Damien Moran, Secretary Tina Bultitude and Treasurer Debbie Bultitude who organised a wonderful evening for all.

Thank you to life members Brian Firth, Rodger Bailey, Carl Roberts, and Rhonda

Mears, 2019- Robert Blanch, 2024- Debbie Bultitude.

4. Walkway signs have been added to the Grafton Riverside upgrade. Eight new signs have been added, sharing stories of the Clarence River, its history and cultural signifcance. These include Dreamtime stories, fooding events, the volunteer water

Adamson who have all played integral roles in the club’s strong history and community importance.

Life Members: 1980- Alan Murray, 1987- Brian Firth, 1987Carl Roberts, 1995Rodger Bailey, 1995Judy Bailey, 2002- Eric Knox, 2007- Michael Mitchell, 2011- Rhonda Adamson, 2014- Steve Whitton, 2015- Greg

brigade, and the tragic drowning of 13 scouts in 1943. Interesting information for tourists and locals.

Wonderful to secure $6.5 million to fund this riverside upgrade which is well used, great to see these new additions.

5. The Lismore Basketball Stadium has been offcially opened! Upgrades include the

replacement of subfoors and supports for the stadium foor following the devastating damage from the February 2022 foods.

The new upgrade will help in attracting signifcant basketball events - benefting both locals and tourists. This project was jointly funded between the Federal and State Government.

6. Great to see upgrades fnishing at the Bonalbo and Woodenbong cemeteries. Shelters complete with picnic tables and bench seating have been installed at both sites, whilst composting toilets are at Woodenbong. It was great to secure $200,000 in funding for these projects through the Federal Government’s Black Summer Bushfre Recovery Grants Program

7. The Kyogle Shooting Range is taking shape. It was great to catch up with Stuart and Veronica this recently. It is going to be an amazing facility. This will be a premier shooting range for our region, attracting good for locals and visitors.

Celebrating 95 Years of Community Spirit: The QCWA Hall at Coolangatta

This year marks a signifcant milestone for The Queensland Country Women’s’ Association Hall at Coolangatta, a cherished community venue that has been a part of Coolangatta for 95 years.

Originally opened in 1929, Coolangatta QCWA Hall was built to foster community connection and provide a space for social activities. Its original 1920’s plan and architecture has remained and over the decades, the hall has hosted everything from wedding receptions

and milestone birthday parties to school plays and charity events. It has seen lively dances, community meetings, war effort activities, community groups and much more. This historic hall has witnessed countless memories and served as a gathering place for generations.

QCWA Coolangatta Branch President, Karen Howell, refected on the hall’s signifcance: “Coolangatta QCWA Hall is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of our community’s resilience and unity. There is no measure for

the community work that has been carried out in the hall over the decades. It’s also wonderful to have one of the few original buildings in Coolangatta, it has its own character.”

To commemorate this remarkable anniversary, the Coolangatta QCWA is organising a celebratory event on October 15th.

The morning tea will include entertainment, a nostalgic photo exhibition and history, and guests will have the opportunity to share their favourite memories and stories tied to the hall.

“Coolangatta QCWA Hall has brought people together for nearly a century, and we are excited to honour its legacy and the countless individuals who have made it a vibrant part of our community.”

The morning tea is free to the public, and the QCWA ladies encourage residents of all ages to join in the celebration, but numbers are limited.

“We want everyone to feel welcome and part of this milestone,” said Karen Howell

As Coolangatta QCWA Hall approaches its centennial, it stands as a

testament to the power of community and the importance of preserving our shared history.

Here’s to another 95 years of laughter, love, and connection at this beloved gathering place!

If you would like to attend the morning

tea on Tuesday 15th October, from 10am to 12md, please RSVP to CoolangattaBranch@ QCWA.org.au, or phone or text Jenny on 0411 960 464.

everyone involved in the enormous amount of work it took to get the Workers Club back open.

KEVIN HOGAN MP

Steve and the team, The Lismore Workers Club

Tucabia-Copmanhurst Crickey Club’s 50th anniversary

TIM HOWARD

Northern Rivers-based artist Laith McGregor has taken home the $35,000 Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award for 2024.

was Nix Francia.

The 2024 JADA was judged by the deputy Director at Artspace, Sydney. Michelle Newton.

She said many of the artists in the 2024 JADA took an interdisciplinary

“His drawing creates an atmosphere charged with emotion, blurring traditional portraiture with abstraction.”

Ms Newton viewed the Early Career Award winner in the same fashion.

Byron Bay-based McGregor won this year’s JADA frst prize with his sculptural charcoal drawing, Untitled (support).

The winner of the $5000 Early Career Award, with their drawing Love at midnight: blood edition

approach to the medium of drawing.

“Laith McGregor’s work is a prime example of this,” Ms Newton said.

“There is something very primary and dynamic in his markmarking and the way he builds up the surface.

“Similarly, Nix Francia’s work plays with light, texture and bodily materials, drawing on personal narratives to create a sense of intimacy,” she said.

McGregor is a Northern Rivers-based artist, whose practice spans

painting and drawing.

He has exhibited widely throughout Australia and overseas, most recently in public institutions, commercial galleries and artist run spaces including: Art Los Angeles Contemporary

emerging artist based in Sydney.

A recent graduate of the National Art School, their work examines the everyday and the mundane, but with a twisted and unique perspective of the human

drawing prize.

The JADA champions innovation and excellence in drawing and showcases the enduring importance of drawing practice in Australia.

(LA), Museum of Contemporary Art (NSW), GOMA (QLD), MONA (TAS), and The National Gallery of Victoria (VIC). Laith McGregor is represented by Station Gallery, Sydney and Melbourne. Early Career Award winner Nix Francia is an

experience.

In 2023 Nix was a fnalist in both the Burwood Art Prize, and Blacktown City Art Prize.

With an acquisitive frst prize of $35,000 and early career award of $5,000, the JADA is the nation’s leading regional

This year’s exhibition features works from 65 artists, including 14 from the Northern Rivers and Clarence Valley region, whose approaches to drawing span the technical and traditional, through to the experimental, conceptual and performative.

The winner of the $35,000 Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award, Laith Mcgregor with Nell Schofeld, Mistress of ceremonies at the Grafton Regional Gallery on Saturday

JADA Early Career award winner Nix Francia with their entry Love at midnight: blood edition at the JADA Gala at the Grafton Regional Gallery on Saturday night.

The Byron Greens have secured a major victory in the recent local government elections, with long-time Greens councillor Sarah Ndiaye elected as the new Mayor of Byron Shire. Joining her on the council are newly elected councillors Elia Hauge, Delta Kay, and Michelle Lowe.

This election marks a historic achievement for Byron Shire, showcasing the community’s strong backing for the Greens’ progressive agenda. Notably, Elia Hauge becomes the youngest-ever councillor in Byron Shire’s history, while Delta Kay and Michelle Lowe bring representation for the

Byron Shire Goes Green at Council Elections

Bundjalung people, making the election signifcant for First Nations inclusion in local governance.

Mayor-Elect Sarah Ndiaye expressed her appreciation to the voters, saying:

“This victory belongs to all of us. It’s a testament to the power of our community and our shared vision for a thriving, sustainable Byron Shire. I’m proud to have run alongside four incredible women— Elia, Delta, Michelle, and Nell Schofeld. You believed in us, in our ideas, and in the possibility of positive change—and together, we’ve made history.”

The new Greens team is committed to tackling the most pressing issues affecting Byron Shire,

Byron Shire Council Seeks Members for Place Planning Collective

Byron Shire Council is calling on residents who love their community and want to contribute to positive changes in their neighbourhoods to apply for its Place Planning Collective. Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are now open for community members to join this important group, which plays a vital role in shaping the future of the Shire’s towns and villages.

The Place Planning Collective consists of local residents, Councillors, and Council staff who meet monthly to advance the goals of Byron Shire’s

place plans—long-term documents that outline community visions over a 10- to 20-year period.

Currently, the Council is seeking members from Bangalow, Mullumbimby, Federal, and the Byron Arts and Industry Estate. In the future, residents from New Brighton, South Golden Beach, and Ocean Shores will also have the opportunity to join once the new Place Plan is adopted.

Steph McMurray, Place Liaison Offcer, emphasized that applicants should have strong connections to their local communities

and be passionate about making a difference.

“We want to hear from people who are active in their communities and who are passionate about making positive changes in our towns and villages,” she said.

The Council encourages people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to apply.

For more information on the Place Planning Collective and to submit an Expression of Interest, visit the Byron Shire Council website.

The deadline for EOIs is 21 October 2024.

including:

• Addressing the housing crisis with a focus on affordable homes

• Protecting the environment and taking bold climate action

• Supporting local arts and creative industries

• Improving public transport and sustainable infrastructure

• Amplifying the voices of youth and First Nations people

Mayor-Elect Ndiaye emphasized her commitment to delivering a transparent, compassionate, and effective council:

“We’re ready to roll up our sleeves and get to work on the issues

that matter most to our community.”

The success of the Byron Greens was powered by strong grassroots support, with many volunteers and supporters contributing to the campaign.

“This is just the beginning of our journey together,” Ndiaye added.

“We have big challenges ahead, but with our community’s spirit and dedication, I’m confdent we can create the fair, sustainable, and vibrant Byron Shire we all envision.”

The newly elected Council, led by Mayor Sarah Ndiaye, will be sworn in on Thursday, October 10th.

Jacaranda blooming for 90th time

Thursday, October 17.

Grafton businesses have been invited to take part in the historic 90th year of Jacaranda Festival celebrations.

The festival called 90 Years in Bloom, has $3500 in prizes for businesses taking part.

The Jacaranda Festival manager, Mark Blackadder, said now was the time for businesses to join in the fun and get involved.

He said there were multiple ways to take part.

“You can embrace the theme and decorate your store or window with 90 Years in Bloom in mind,’ he said.

“Or you can join the festivities, take part in Carnival Capers or Jacaranda Thursday, and perform at Market Square for a chance to win the Gold or Silver cup.”

Mr Blackadder said to be part of the fun, registrations had to be received by 5pm on

“Make sure your business is decked out and ready to shine from Friday October 18 to Sunday November 10,” he said.

“The judges will be making their rounds.”

Building on the success of recent Jacaranda festivals, Mr Blackadder said all the signs pointed to record crowds expected to visit the Clarence Valley.

“Now’s the perfect time to make your

business stand out for Jacaranda season, running from October 18 to Sunday November 10,” he said.

“Thanks to our wonderful sponsor Findex Grafton, we’re offering $3500 in prizes for businesses that participate in the 90 Years in Bloom competition.

He said registrations can be completed online at https://www. jacarandafestival.com/ purplepack

Byron Mayor-Elect Sarah Ndiaye

TIM HOWARD

There are several ways to be part of the 90th anniversary of Jacaranda Festival celebrations.

24 Day Discover Italy & Croatian/Med Cruise 2025

 Return Transfers from Home to Airport Return

 Return Airfares in Economy Class

 14 Nights Quality Hotel Accommodation with breakfast daily

 7 Night Cruise from Bari in a Balcony Cabin incl. drinks package

 Visit Italy, Zadar and Dubrovnik in Croatia & Montenegro

 19 Dinners and 9 Lunches

 All sightseeing in Italy. Optional excursions apply on cruise

 Small group, maximum 14 passengers

 Fully escorted from Australia with local experts in Italy

A trip to Italy offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Start in Rome, where ancient landmarks like the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Pantheon transport you back in time. Travel to Venice, a city of romance and waterways. Explore the Grand Canal, visit St. Mark's Basilica. Enjoy Tuscany, known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns. Visit Florence and Pisa. Enjoy a Mediterranean cruise, stopping in Croatia to experience the stunning coastlines of Dubrovnik and Zadar, and in Montenegro for the rugged beauty of Kotor and its bay.

Travel Dates: 06 June to 30 June 2025

Southern Africa Discovery Escorted Group Tour 2025

 Return Transfers from your home to the Airport

 All Economy Airfares

 20 Nights’ Accommodation incl. 5 Nights Game Lodges

 Breakfast Daily, 15 Dinners, 9 Lunches

 Game drives in open vehicles in Private Game Lodges

 Game drives Chobe National Park and a boat cruise on Chobe River and full day Hwange National Park safari

 Guided tour of the Victoria Falls

Travel Dates: 08 May to 29 May 2025

South Africa boasts diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Chobe offers unparalleled wildlife experiences in Botswana's pristine wilderness. Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls, provides breathtaking beauty. Together, they offer a quintessential African adventure, merging natural wonders with cultural immersion. Explore, witness, and be transformed.

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enquiries@casinotravel.com.au

Diary of a Flood Survivor

The world’s weather seems to be going crazy at the moment. Floods are stretching right across the northern hemisphere from Nepal, Japan, Tunisia and Europe.

I have a friend who lives in Florida’s Big Bend area, where the state’s ‘panhandle’ transitions to its peninsula.

I’ve seen photos of her house and have admired its gorgeous water views, but she now has that water all through her house thanks to Hurricane Helene. They have lost everything.

I wrote to her with a heart full of empathy as it was quite triggering to see a video of her house now with water gushing through it.

It took me back to how we felt the frst time we forced open our water swollen front door to discover that the whole ground foor ceiling had collapsed.

It reminded me of the smell we experienced as we walked up the stairs and squelched our way on the carpet to see furniture covered in mould or knocked over and sodden from the water that swirled its way up to the second foor.

I ached for my friend and her husband as I know the days ahead for her are going to be hard. They will need to navigate their own nightmare. She told me they have saved their photos but lost their furniture and cars. She asked me what

I could share with her to get through it.

I suggested she deal with only what she could handle at the time, to not look at the whole picture too often, as it can be overwhelming.

I told her to celebrate the little wins and don’t hold back on grieving, as it is a natural process.

I’ve noticed since the food of 2022 that it’s not easy to just bypass what happens around the world now. What we experienced is the same as what is happening to people across the globe and I see it with a much deeper understanding.

The only way my friend can deal with her experience now is with… Little Steps.

NRAS Rescue Shelter monthly Adoption Day

The clouds will go; the sun will shine and the NRAS Rescue Shelter will open the doors once again for its monthly Adoption Day.

Saturday 5 October 10:00am – 1:00pm 61 Piper Drive, Ballina

There are always beautiful dogs, cats, puppies and kittens looking for their forever homes and this Adoption Day could be the “one” when you fnd that special fur-baby that will fll your family void.

The morning also offers people the opportunity to check out the facilities, fnd out about becoming a foster carer or an NRAS volunteer.

The usual $10 services will be operating, including ID tag engraving, microchipping, hydrobathing and nail clipping. Along, with regular stalls including doggie merchandise and treats, a yummy barbeque and hot & cold drinks.

If you are interested in adopting, please go to the website to

view the profles of the animals that are currently available and to download an adoption questionnaire. www. nras.org.au

All animals adopted through NRAS are vet checked, fea & worm treated, microchipped, vaccinated and desexed.

For any further information, call the Shelter weekdays between 10:00am and 4:00pm on 6681 1860 or email: shelter@nras. org.au

NSW Sugar Industry Recognised for Excellence and Australian Ownership

CONTRIBUTED

The NSW sugarcane crushing season has been progressing relatively well so far with around 860,000 tonnes of cane crushed at the end of September.

Cane yields have been better than estimated with cane cutting about 10% higher, on average, thanks to exceptional growing conditions since the end of last year.

Cane quality has also been good with CCS

(sugar content) in the 12 to 13 percent range across all three mills.

The Condong Sugar Mill has crushed more than 270,00 tonnes of its forecast crop of 475,000 tonnes, the Broadwater Mill 284,000 tonnes of its forecast crop of 550,000 tonnes and the Harwood Mill 300,000 tonnes of its forecast 620,000 tonne crop.

For the third time this season operations have been interrupted by weather events in the form of heavy rain and

wind.

Despite that, the industry continues to exercise its best endeavours to harvest and process the crop and with the season tracking well for both the mills and growers, the industry has been celebrating on a number of fronts.

The 150th Year celebrations at the Harwood Sugar mill included 10 days of historical displays and culminated in a community event attended by more than

8,000 people.

Soon after, the Sunshine Sugar business was named a fnalist in the Northern Rivers Business Award for Excellence in Large Business. This recognition was a great acknowledgement for a local industry that employs some 400 direct and 1,200 indirect local people and contributes over $250m into the local economy.

These local and Australian credentials have also been amplifed

through the coalition of Australian owned businesses that have come together to raise awareness of Australian owned grocery brands for consumers who are proactively looking to directly support Australian producers.

A survey of more than 1,000 people commissioned by dairy cooperative Norco found more than half of consumers were guided by the Australian Made logo, with 81% buying a product that they believe

is Australian-owned but it’s actually foreignowned.

Norco, Sanitarium, SPC, Mayvers, along with Sunshine Sugar have banded together to raise awareness of Australian ownership, citing that “Australianmade is good, but Australian-made and owned is great. And that’s the conversation we want to start.

Stock photo

The Lismore Community Recycling Centre is participating in a new NSW Government trial designed to help households safely dispose of embedded batteries commonly found in wireless products such as light-up toys, single-use vapes, and other electronics. The initiative, led by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) in collaboration with Lismore City Council, aims to reduce the number of these problematic products ending up in landflls and mitigate fre hazards

caused by battery disposal in household bins.

As part of the trial, the Lismore Community Recycling Centre on Wyrallah Road is now accepting embedded battery products from households and small businesses free of charge. This new service will help the community safely dispose of products with built-in batteries that cannot be easily removed, such as:

• Single-use vapes

• Electric toothbrushes

• E-bikes

• Smart watches

• Portable speakers

• Vacuums

Embedded batteries, often made of lithiumion, pose unique challenges for waste management due to their diffculty to recycle and their potential to cause fres. In 2023, the number of lithium-ion battery-related fres in NSW surged to 285, more than double the previous year. Dedicated Bins Now Available Lismore is one of 21 community recycling centres across NSW taking part in this EPA-led trial, which

Warm Summer Predicted as Bushfre Season Offcially Begins

October 1st marks the offcial start of the 2024-25 bushfre season in NSW, with high fuel loads across the state posing signifcant challenges for fre agencies. The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has been preparing for a potentially warm summer, having already responded to over 1,600 bush and grass fres since July 1. Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib and RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers conducted an aerial inspection of Sydney’s most at-risk suburbs, departing from Arcadia Rural Fire Brigade station. They observed recent hazard reduction efforts in the Hornsby area, part of an ongoing effort to reduce fuel loads in preparation for the hotter months. The NSW Government has funded an additional 100 hazard reduction crew members to support this essential work.

RFS frefghters are well-prepared for fre and emergency incidents, but residents are also urged to prepare by taking the following steps to reduce their fre risk:

1. Trim overhanging trees and shrubs.

2. Mow grass, remove cuttings, and create a cleared area around your home.

3. Remove fammable materials such as door mats, wood piles, mulch, and fammable liquids.

4. Clear debris and leaves from gutters.

5. Prepare a hose or hoses that can reach around your home.

The bushfre season offcially runs from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025, although some areas are already in the Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP). Residents are encouraged to develop a Bush Fire Survival Plan and access the RFS website, Hazards Near Me app, or local radio for fre updates.

The RFS Bush Fire Information Line is also available at 1800 679 737.

Minister Jihad Dib emphasized the importance of preparation, stating: “With high temperatures forecast this summer, we cannot be complacent. Everyone needs to take the time now to

understand their risk and make a Bush Fire Survival Plan.”

RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers added: “Consecutive wet years have led to increased vegetation growth, particularly in grasslands. Grass fres spread rapidly, threatening homes and livestock. Our frefghters are working hard, but preparation is a shared responsibility.”

Fire and Rescue NSW

Acting Commissioner Paul McGuiggan also reminded travellers to check fre risks before leaving for trips, particularly during the holiday period, while Naomi Stephens, Executive Director of Park Operations Coastal at NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, highlighted efforts to prepare by slashing and mowing high-risk areas and maintaining fre trails for frefghters. As bushfre season begins, the collaboration between the community, government, and fre services is crucial to mitigating risks and protecting lives and property across NSW.

New Trial for Safe Disposal of Embedded Batteries, Including Vapes, Launches in Lismore

includes dedicated bins specifcally for embedded battery products. E-waste items such as laptops, gaming controllers, and tablets should still be directed to Lismore Council’s e-waste collection service.

The trial is active and will run until September 2026. More information can be found on the NSW EPA website at: NSW EPA Embedded Batteries.

Community and Environmental Benefts Janelle Saffn MP, Member for Lismore, praised the initiative,

saying: “This trial is a much-needed initiative that will help protect our local community and environment by reducing the number of embedded-battery products that are mistakenly disposed of in yellow and red kerbside bins. We hope Lismore residents will learn more about these products, the risks they pose, and the importance of correct disposal.”

Penny Sharpe, Minister for the Environment, also highlighted the importance of the trial: “We want to make it easier for people to do

the right thing with embedded batteries, to help prevent fres in bins, rubbish trucks, and waste facilities, while reducing what goes to landfll. The majority of embedded battery products, including disposable vapes, end up in rubbish bins where they pose signifcant risks. This trial will help mitigate those hazards and increase recycling efforts.”

The trial represents a signifcant step towards a safer and more sustainable approach to managing hazardous materials in NSW.

Nominations Now Open for the 2025 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards

The Ballina Shire is once again celebrating the remarkable individuals and groups who make a positive impact on the community through the 2025 Australia Day Awards. These awards shine a light on the extraordinary work of ordinary people, ranging from community volunteers to trailblazing professionals, who contribute selfessly to improving the Shire.

Mayor Sharon Cadwallader highlighted the importance of recognizing these unsung heroes, stating, “We want to celebrate the individuals and groups who make a remarkable impact on our shire. But most importantly, we want to thank them for all that they do.” The selection process for the awards considers both recent achievements and the nominee’s ongoing contributions to the community.

New Categories and Updates

The 2025 Ballina Shire Awards introduces a new category, Local Hero, which will honour individuals making an impact in their felds through innovation or community service. Additionally, the Young Citizen of the Year age limit has been lowered to under 25, and Senior Citizen of the Year nominees must be over 65, changes made to better refect the Shire’s diverse demographics.

Award Categories:

• Local Hero (open age)

• Young Citizen (under 25 years)

• Senior Citizen (over 65 years)

• Volunteer of the Year (open age)

• Sports Achievement (individual, team, coach, or administrator)

• Arts and Culture (individual or group)

• Environmental Award (individual or group)

• Community Event of the Year (event held during 2024)

The prestigious Ballina Shire Citizen of the Year will be selected from nominees across all categories.

How to Nominate:

Nominations are now open and can be submitted until Monday, 4 November 2024. To nominate a deserving individual or group, visit the Ballina Shire Council website at ballina.nsw. gov.au/2025Awards.

Stay tuned for updates on the 2025 Australia Day Awards ceremony, where the exceptional contributions of Ballina’s community members will be recognized and celebrated.

Book

Lismore Regional Gallery Reopens After $5.1 Million Restoration

ROBERT HEYWARD

What

‘kind’ of business gives value

Title: Kind Business: Values create Value

Author: Dr David Cooke

Price: $29.95

Publisher: Pegasus By Samantha Elley

When you think of business, do you immediately think of kindness? Or are you more inclined to think of profts at all costs? While that may have been the norm for corporations, Dr David Cooke, in his frst book, shows that it doesn’t have to be.

He outlines some of the mistake’s businesses have made when it comes to looking after, not just the customer, but their staff, the community, both local and surrounding, and the environment. When short-term returns are the focus, it can, more often than not, endanger long-term sustainability.

Lismore Regional Gallery has reopened its doors following a comprehensive $5.1 million restoration, marking a signifcant recovery milestone for the community after the devastating 2022 foods. The project, funded by both the Albanese and Minns Governments, restored the gallery’s fve exhibition spaces and enhanced the surrounding Quad area, reconnecting it with the Lismore Library and Northern Rivers Conservatorium. The upgrades include improved landscaping, soil drainage, new pathways, and community seating, designed to make the area more resilient to future weather events. Funded by Disaster

Recovery Programs

The restoration was made possible through the Create NSW Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Packages, part of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). These funds were allocated to repair the extensive food damage suffered by both the gallery’s building and its art collections. In addition to the necessary repairs, the project focused on futureproofng the gallery to ensure it can better withstand environmental challenges in the years to come.

A Boost for Lismore’s Cultural Recovery Government offcials have hailed the gallery’s reopening as a vital step in Lismore’s recovery process:

• Tony Sheldon, Special Envoy for

Disaster Recovery, highlighted the government’s continued support for Lismore and the Northern Rivers region, acknowledging the gallery’s importance as a cultural hub.

• Tara Moriarty, Minister for Regional NSW, described the reopening as a crucial step in the city’s social and cultural restoration, emphasizing the importance of resilient community spaces.

• John Graham, Minister for the Arts, celebrated the gallery’s return and commended the community’s commitment to preserving and fostering the arts, despite the challenges posed by the foods.

Renewed Energy for Lismore’s CBD

Local leaders, including Janelle Saffn, NSW Parliamentary Secretary

for Disaster Recovery, emphasized the gallery’s pivotal role in revitalizing Lismore’s CBD. The gallery’s reopening joins other key landmarks like the Lismore Workers Club and the Uniting Church, which have also reopened, signalling the city’s ongoing recovery. Before the foods, Lismore Regional Gallery attracted 150,000 visitors annually, and it is expected to continue as a vital cultural destination, showcasing local talent, hosting touring exhibitions, and providing a rejuvenated space for arts engagement. This reopening is a key boost for both the community and regional tourism, reinforcing Lismore’s place as a hub for arts and culture in Northern NSW.

Bangalow Koalas Reaches 400,000 Trees in the “500,000 Reasons for Hope” Project

The book is a message of hope and one that should be read by all business owners. It is a map or blueprint showing how corporate responsibility should look and how, through commercial enterprise we can make the world a better place for everyone.

Dr David Cooke has had over 35 years of experience in the corporate world and was the frst non-Japanese managing director of Konica Minolta Australia for the last eight years. Prior to that, he held management roles with Canon and Rank Xerox. He has served as the Chair of the UN Global Compact Network Australia and of The Australian Human Rights Institute Advisory Committee.

He is a public speaker and facilitates workshops through his frm ESG Advisory (esgadvisory.com.au)

You can purchase his book from www. booktopia.com.au

Bangalow Koalas has achieved an incredible milestone, planting its 400,000th tree this week as part of the 500,000 Reasons for Hope project. The milestone was reached on a property in Knockrow, in the Northern Rivers of NSW, contributing to approximately 360 hectares of reforested land across six shires since 2019.

Since its inception, Bangalow Koalas has organized 148 plantings on 114 properties, creating a powerful community-driven initiative aimed at restoring koala habitats and addressing climate change. What began as a small-scale effort has grown into a large-scale operation of environmental

restoration, offering hope for koalas, ecosystems, and future generations.

Linda Sparrow, President of Bangalow

target.

However, the fnal push requires additional funding. Linda is calling on businesses,

Koalas, is aiming even higher. “With the biggest threat to koalas being habitat loss, Bangalow Koalas is on a mission to plant 500,000 trees by the end of 2025,” she said. Having planted just over 400,000 trees so far, with more to come before the end of the 2024 planting season, the project is close to reaching its ambitious

organisations, and individuals to help plant the remaining 90,000 trees in 2025. “Our job isn’t anywhere near fnished yet,” she says, urging the community to support the project by donating.

How You Can Help

If you’d like to support Bangalow Koalas in reaching their 500,000tree goal and contribute

to the preservation of koalas and the environment, you can make a donation.

To learn more and to help fund their 2025 planting efforts, visit bangalowkoalas.com.au. Why It Matters

This project represents more than just tree planting. It’s a community-driven, hands-on response to the climate crisis, bringing together farmers, families, Indigenous groups, Landcare organisations, and businesses in a collective effort to restore ecosystems and provide hope for the future.

The impact is tangible, demonstrating to future generations that positive change is possible—and happening now.

Tweed Regional Museum Wins Top Prize for “Supertonic” Exhibition

ROBERT HEYWARD

The Tweed Regional Museum has claimed the top prize for its innovative exhibition, Supertonic, a captivating showcase that explores the rich history and cultural signifcance of music in the region.

The award recognizes the museum’s excellence in curating an engaging and interactive exhibition that highlights local talent, music heritage, and the impact of sound on the community. Through immersive displays, rare artifacts, and multimedia presentations, Supertonic invites visitors to experience the transformative power of music and its enduring infuence on the Tweed region.

The recognition underscores the museum’s commitment to preserving and

celebrating local culture while providing educational and entertaining experiences for visitors of all ages. This award further cements the Tweed Regional Museum’s reputation as a leader in the cultural sector, offering high-quality exhibitions that resonate with both the community and visitors from afar.

The Supertonic exhibition at the Tweed Regional Museum explored the profound impact of music on the Tweed community, showcasing the region’s vibrant musical heritage. Through a variety of immersive displays, interactive elements, and rare historical artifacts, the exhibition delved into how music has shaped local culture, from early Indigenous sounds to contemporary musical movements.

Supertonic highlighted

the role music plays in connecting people, celebrating regional talent, and documenting the evolution of musical styles in the Tweed area. Visitors could explore instruments, recordings, photographs, and stories of iconic musicians from the region, offering a deep dive into the personal and collective experiences surrounding music in the community.

The exhibition also emphasized the therapeutic and unifying power of music, refecting on how it brings individuals together and provides emotional support through challenging times. With an engaging mix of historical content and modern musical infuences, Supertonic captured the enduring legacy of sound and its infuence on regional identity and social cohesion.

New 60-Day Cap on Unhosted Holiday Letting Takes Effect in Byron Shire

In a groundbreaking move for New South Wales, the Byron Shire Council has implemented a new regulation that limits unhosted short-term rental accommodation (STRA) to 60 days per year. The rule, which came into effect on 23 September 2024, applies to most of the Byron Shire, excluding some areas in Byron Bay and much of Brunswick Heads.

This new cap restricts property owners from renting their unhosted properties for more than two months annually for holiday accommodation. The decision follows years of advocacy by the Council, aimed at addressing the housing shortage and providing more stable, long-term accommodation for residents, including key workers.

Shannon Burt,

Director of Sustainable Environment and Economy for Byron Shire Council, said, “Getting this 60-day cap approved by the NSW Government took many years of work and is recognition of the diffculty many people, including key workers, face in fnding stable, long-term accommodation in the Shire.”

Monitoring and Enforcement Council staff will spend the next few months consolidating data on unhosted properties, focusing on those registered on the NSW Government Short Term Rental Accommodation Register as well as public and private listings on various online booking platforms.

“While we have already done a lot of background work in preparation for this, we need to review

and refresh the work we have done since the cap came into effect earlier this week,” said Ms. Burt. “Once we are confdent our data is robust, we will begin looking closely for property owners who are breaching the new regulations.”

Community Involvement

Residents are also encouraged to play a role in ensuring compliance. If neighbors suspect any breaches of the new regulations, they are encouraged to report them to the Council.

“This is new territory for us, and there is no rule book to follow, so we will be reviewing and refning our approaches as we go,” added Ms. Burt.

For more information about the new STRA regulations, residents and property owners can visit the Byron Shire Council website.

Be on the Lookout for Magpies Swooping This Spring

As spring approaches, it’s time to be mindful of swooping magpies, especially in areas where these territorial birds are known to nest. Magpies typically become protective during their breeding season, which lasts from late August through October, as they defend their nests from perceived threats, including pedestrians and cyclists.

To help you stay safe during magpie season, here are a few tips:

1. Avoid Known Swooping Areas: If possible, take a different route or steer clear of areas where magpies are known to nest.

2. Wear Protective Gear: A hat, sunglasses,

or umbrella can help shield your face from swooping magpies.

Some cyclists also attach zip ties or fags to their helmets for added protection.

3. Stay Calm and Move Quickly: If a magpie swoops at you, try not to panic. Move away swiftly but avoid making sudden movements that might provoke the bird further.

4. Don’t Harass the Birds: Remember, magpies are just protecting their young. Avoid throwing things

or provoking them, as this could make them more aggressive.

5. Keep Children Safe: Make sure young children are aware of swooping magpies and stay close to them in areas where swooping is common. By taking precautions and respecting magpies’ natural behaviour, you can enjoy the outdoors safely this spring. Stay alert and help others in your community be aware of swooping magpies!

Ballina Shire Council Opens Funding for 2025/26 Festivals and Events

Ballina Shire Council has offcially opened its Festival and Event Sponsorship Program for the 2025/2026 fnancial year. Now in its 14th year, the program provides approximately $120,000 in funding for local festivals and events, reinforcing the Council’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and connected community.

Mayor Sharon Cadwallader emphasized the importance of local events, stating, “Local events and festivals are essential for connecting and uniting our community, bringing positive social and economic benefts that enrich our region.”

To ensure event organisers have ample time to plan, the Council is inviting applications well ahead of the 2025/26 fnancial year. “If you’re planning an event in the Shire or know an

organisation that could beneft from this funding, we encourage you to apply early,” Mayor Cadwallader added.

Eligibility Criteria and Key Information

To be eligible for funding, events must meet the following criteria:

• The total cost of the event or festival must exceed $20,000.

• The event must be held within the Ballina Shire.

• Applicants must hold adequate public liability insurance.

Applications are open to a variety of events, including some of the region’s most successful festivals, such as:

• Alstonville New

Year’s Eve Family Festival

• Love Lennox Festival

• Fair Go (skate competition event)

• Skullcandy Oz Grom Open (junior surfng competition event) Important Dates

• Application Deadline: Friday, 8 November 2024

• Decision Announcement: December 2024 Council meeting, with applicants informed of the outcome by early January 2025. For more information, including application forms and funding details, visit the Ballina Shire Council’s website: ballina.nsw.gov.au/ FestivalEvents.

Marine Rescue Brunswick crew performs medical evacuation off Byron Bay

Volunteers from Marine Rescue Brunswick completed a rapid medical evacuation from a fshing trawler off Byron Bay this morning.

Marine Rescue NSW

Inspector John Murray said Marine Rescue Brunswick was tasked for the mission by NSW Police Marine Area Command.

“A call was received just before 10am that a 17-year-old male was suffering a medical episode on board a fshing trawler.

“A volunteer crew was quickly assembled and Marine Rescue NSW vessel Brunswick 30 deployed.

“Brunswick 30 met the trawler one nautical mile (1.8km) off Cape Byron and transferred the young male onto the Marine Rescue NSW vessel.

“The BR 30 crew assisted the patient and took him to Brunswick Boat Harbour where NSW Ambulance paramedics were waiting to provide further treatment,”

Inspector Murray said.

Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-forproft professional organization dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.

Tweed Shire Council’s 2024/25 Road Reseal Program Underway

maintenance costs, and improve safety for all road users.

The Tweed Shire Council has commenced its 2024/25 road reseal program, focusing on essential road maintenance and upgrades across the region. Running from September 2024 through to February 2025, the program will cover 50 kilometers of the Shire’s 1,200 km road network.

Manager of Roads and Stormwater, Danny Rose, emphasized the importance of this annual program, noting that $3.6 million is being invested this year as part of the Council’s $22 million annual roads budget. The reseal program helps extend road lifespan, reduce long-term

The resealing process involves applying a layer of hot bitumen and stone, which creates a durable, waterproof coating that protects roads from

traffc wear and varying weather conditions.

While some roads may appear to be in good condition, they are selected based on a range of factors including condition, crash history, and traffc volume, as

well as coordination with other infrastructure needs such as water and sewerage upgrades.

To ensure public safety and maintain the quality of the work, Council requests that road users and pedestrians avoid freshly resealed roads unless authorized. Minor traffc delays may occur due to lane closures, and the Council appreciates the community’s patience during these works.

Residents can stay updated on ongoing and upcoming projects by visiting tweed.nsw. gov.au/roadworks.

For more information on why roads are resealed and how Council prioritizes maintenance, read the Council’s road fact sheet.

Motorists are advised to drive safely and adhere to directions by on-site crews while road resealing works are underway.

ROBERT HEYWARD

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

A FELINE BICYCLE ADVENTURE ‘PLAN’

Oooh, I simply HAD to ask ‘Mum Jane.’ ‘Mum, do you know that song called ‘A Bicycle Built for 2’ written in 1892 by a British Bloke called Harry Dacre?’ ‘YEP’ was all the response I got! (how rude!) (It’s Leemo Cat writing.) Hmmm! I was determined to pursue this further. ‘Mum, show more interest please. Are you aware an amazing family of 4 who live in our suburb went on a bicycle ride for many days? Setting out from their home on a Hill in Lismore, the family spent 3 days travelling about 150km to a rainforest retreat at Lamington National Park in the Gold Coast Hinterland, freecamping for 3 days along the way, and then cycled for 3 more days to get home. e clever Dad made a ni y attachment (kinda like a modern version of a ( riksha, a man-powered carriage, invented in 1869 in Japan) for his bicycle so the youngest child could sit in it on their adventure & mind the rations & stu . Mum, they cycled up & down hills & dales, camped out, met many ni y people & truly had the very best time ever. My buddies & me read the story intently & KNEW this type of travel would be just perfect for YOU and some of us. (‘Scarlet’ was forbidden by her humans to come with us!) Do you comprehend?’ e old woman spoke with the tone akin to a starving very crabby lion & told me to remain silent. ‘Leems, I note the word

YOU, (e.g., ME) were mentioned in your diatribe. Please explain before I immediately cut your treats in ½’ Eeek.. the horror! ‘Well Mum, we all truly did much research and it seems we felines, whilst being supremely clever at most everything, cannot pedal a bicycle ourselves ‘cos of our shortness in our leg department; SO, we rationalised Mum, ‘cos you have longer legs, YOU could pedal the bicycle with a kinda Rickshaw thingie (like the clever Dad made) attached to it in which we could travel in comfort with our plush blankies, protected from the sun, rain & stu but still take in the sights & paw wave at clapping passers by. Gottit?’ ‘NUP – I don’t gottit Leems. I’ve heard your words and ascertained you want ME, at almost 75yrs old, to plan a journey for 5 or 6 overweight felines for many days; you want ME to do all the hard yakka; you want me to create your ‘feline rickshaw’ thingie & ll it with blankies & treats; you want ME with my arthritic knees, to pedal ‘up hill and down dale’ whilst you all sit back in comfort; then you want me to set up camp & set out treats for you & tuck you in & so ly sing ‘A Bicycle Built for 2+’ ‘till you go to sleep; Had it occurred to ANY of you I might need some repose from my pedalling due to sheer exhaustion & MAY have a longing for a glass of wine watching a dreamy sunset where I can at least try to think life is simply a truly beautiful adventure, but is in reality, truly just a bloody big nightmare with over indulged felines like you lot in tow.’ CRIKEY, Mum is sounding a mix between philosophical & plainly old. We all decided it was just old age a ecting her. We all snuggled her with purrs & so paws & told her to ‘Mum Jane, don’t ever stop believing or give up dreaming’ ‘cos we might do that bicycle adventure ONE DAY!!’ Nitey with bemused but happy purrsies. Leemo & Buddies.

Environmental focus at Byron Bay Film Festival

Byron Shire flmmaker

Damon Gameau is well known to audiences around the world for his artful cinematic studies of some of the contemporary threats to human health and survival in documentaries such as That Sugar Film, 2040, and Regenerating Australia.

Despite their alarming subject matter, Gameau’s flms always offer something positive – a degree of faith in humanity’s capacity to face and even overcome its problems.

Nowhere is this more evident than in his latest work, Future Council, in which the rays of hope come in the form of eight clever and inquiring pre-teens from around the world, travelling with Gameau across Europe in a bright yellow vegetable-powered school bus to visit ecological projects and meet the bosses of some of the world’s worst polluting companies (and make them squirm with their bold questions).

The kids’ intelligence, integrity and courage – and their enthusiastic co-operative efforts to fnd solutions to the challenge of survival in a climate crisis – make for heart-warming, and at times heart-rending, viewing.

There is also hope in the projects of the ecominded individuals and groups they visit, and in the beauty of the forests and lakes they seek out and soak up – healing balm to their troubled young souls.

Above all, it is in the children’s thoughtfulness – the imagination and ambition they bring to the subject – that makes this such an uplifting flm. It offers real proof of the cliched statement that ‘children are our future’ – our future councillors and counsellors, in fact.

Also future-focussed, and similarly uplifting, is the feature documentary, Wilding, based on English journalist Isabella Tree’s bestselling book of the same name. Wilding traces

the 20-year mission of a couple of enlightened toffs to restore their 1400-hectare stately home’s farmland to health following centuries of use and abuse.

The land around Knepp Castle, in West Sussex, was ploughed and planted and drenched in chemicals to the point where its soil had become dirt, Tree says, and the farm only remained economically viable through government subsidies. She and her husband, Baronet Charles Burrell, decided that enough was enough, and followed a radical model of ‘rewilding’. They stocked it with ancient species of wild horse, cattle and, Tree’s favourite, pigs, whose rootling allowed the ground to return to a genuine viability, abundant with worms and 23 different species of dung beetle.

Tree and ‘Charlie’ are aristocrats but are also literally down to Earth, and their radical experiment made outsiders of them in their community. They became, says Tree, a pair of “lonely lunatics”, loathed by their neighbours.

There were other headaches too, including the spread over hundreds of acres of the noxious weed, creeping thistle. Instead of blitzing it with herbicides, the couple waited for nature to take its course and lo, when 11 million painted lady butterfies arrived from North Africa, their

young girl immerses herself in the living world, acknowledges her intimate connection to Country and pays respect to the traditional custodians, leaving us with a simple message: look after the land and the land will look after you.

caterpillars ate the thistle to the ground, and it never returned. Wilding’s story is full of these miraculous events, the wondrous capability of nature to right itself. The grand experiment became one of the most signifcant experiments of its type in Europe, and the estate today is a magnet for nature lovers, birdspotters, enviro-tourists of every type.

In other BBFF screenings, we meet Byron Bay beekeeper Quinn Ingram-Arnold, 16, who is also a believer in letting nature take its course; despondent following annihilating foods, fres and diseases, he sought help from a local “bee whisperer” to understand how to protect his hives. His short flm Trust the Bees tells how he learned to go with the fow.

Water and music fow together in Princess Daazhraii Johnson’s beautiful Gath & K’iyh: Listen to Heal, a poetic visual exploration of a community-led creative arts project in the Yukon, aimed at better understanding and restoring the people’s relationship with king salmon (gath) and k’iyh (birch). The flm features Yo-Yo Ma and his cello, playing alongside community musicians and poets. Turrakana Home, directed by Kristan Laemmle-Ruff, is set in similarly remote and rugged country, where the forest meets the wild southern ocean in lutruwita/Tasmania. A

Fungi: Web of Life takes a similarly reverential approach to the natural world as it explores a great mystery we are only just beginning to unravel, the often-hidden world of fungi. Co-directors Gisela Kaufmann and Joseph Nizeti have created an astonishingly beautiful flm about an extraordinary phenomenon. You will never view your garden or the forest foor the same way again. These are just some of the environmental flms on offer, and such a selection for its 18th year is nothing new for the Byron Bay Film Festival, which has shown a concern for environmental issues from the beginning.

As part of this longstanding commitment to environmental awareness and activism, the Festival is bringing Future Council to the Northern Rivers as part of its Schools Program, which aims to empower the region’s youth to fnd their voice and take a stand. For High Schools, the program also features a curated selection of short flms, both documentaries and dramas, designed to provide a fresh look at screen content, to resonate with students and spark meaningful conversations.

Schools across the Northern Rivers are invited to participate in the program, enriching their students’ screen appreciation and understanding of the world around them.

The 18th Byron Bay Film Festival runs from October 18-27 at Byron Palace Cinemas and other venues. Visit www.bbff.com.au for more information and tickets.

Damon Gameau and young environmentalists in Future Council

2024 ELDERS LISMORE SHOW

The Northern Rivers community and beyond are invited to come along and enjoy this year’s Elders North Coast National Lismore Show that will be held on 17, 18 and 19 October.

North Coast National A & I Society President John Gibson said the popular Show would return with all the usual favourites, as well as what are sure to become new favourites, like Pop Zone.

“Every year, the show evolves and this year I am happy to announce we will be hosting Pop Zone, including Cosplay, for the frst time. It is where fantasy and imagination rule,” he said.

“I am also happy to announce that this year, we will also host prestigious National and State Woodchop titles, attracting the best contestants from across the country and state.

“This year we also have a Chill and Charge zone, which is a quiet zone for people to relax and recharge themselves and their phones.”

“It is not long until October so now is the time to get ready for the return of our regular popular competitions and exhibitions. We already have some great attractions booked including the Ashton circus that will perform throughout each day and Monster Trucks.

“The very popular

FMX bikes will return, along with a petting zoo, a Lego competition for schools, reptiles, jet packs, freworks and a community stage with a range of local acts.

“The Show has been at the heart of our community since 1885 and is where memories are made. I invite everyone to come along this year to catch up with old friends and make new ones.

“Once again, I would like to thank our naming rights sponsor, Elders,

and all our sponsors. Without them, the Show could not go on.”

Nominations are also now open for the 2024 North Coast National Young Woman and Teen Showgirl Competitions. If you’re between 13 and 25, this is your chance to step into the spotlight and make a difference. The Young Woman competition is for those aged 18 to 25 and Teen Showgirl for girls aged 13 to 17.

This is your chance to be an ambassador for your community, showcase your passion for agriculture and promote Lismore and the Lismore Show.

For more information about how to apply for the Young Woman and Teen Showgirl competitions, go to https:// northcoastnational. com.au. Entries close 4 October.

Multicultural NSW’s Stronger Together Grants Program opens

LISMORE MP Janelle Saffn is encouraging multicultural and multifaith community groups in her electorate to apply for a share in $500,000 to deliver grassroots Festivals and Events that foster community harmony and celebrate cultural diversity in 2024-2025.

Ms Saffn says eligible organisations can apply for grants of between $5,000 and $20,000 to help organise festivities that celebrate and embrace our state’s vibrant cultural diversity.

“This is an opportunity for grassroots not-forproft organisations across our Electorate of Lismore to secure a Festival and Event grant to enhance an existing festival or launch a new community celebration,” Ms Saffn says.

“Exploring different cultures, sharing international cuisine, world music and entertainment is the ideal way to bring people together. It makes for more vibrant and harmonious communities.”

Multicultural NSW administers the grants on behalf of the NSW Government.

The festivals and events are scheduled to run between 1 March and 31 July 2025.

The grants remain open until Friday 11 October, 5pm and an information session is planned for 3 October, 11am.

For more information or to apply, visit the QR code below.

NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

“These celebrations not

$158,000 TO IMPROVE FISH HABITAT IN BUNGAWALBIN CREEK

A $158,000 grant awarded to Rous County Council by the NSW Government to restore 1,600m2 of complex fsh habitat on Bungawalbin Creek is welcome news according to Clarence Nationals MP, Richie Williamson.

Mr Williamson said Rous is one of fve recipients to secure funding under the latest round of the NSW Government’s Flagship Fish Habitat Rehabilitation Grant program, which focuses on large-scale projects that improve fsh habitat, water quality, and fsh passage opportunities within coastal catchments.

“This grant is fantastic news for our region and will play a key role in enhancing fsh habitat in the Bungawalbin Creek, a much-loved local fshing spot,” Mr Williamson said.

“The Bungawalbin Creek, a tributary of the Richmond River, will beneft from the project through the placement of various structures—such as rocks, snags, and riparian vegetation— along 200 metres of the creek’s banks.

“This approach has proven highly effective

only serve to showcase the vibrancy and richness of NSW communities for all to share and appreciate, but they are also integral to the success of our state.”

“Cultural diversity is a precious part of our identity and way of life in NSW and something we should not take for granted.”

in creating diverse habitat types that support a variety of fsh species and meet their needs throughout different stages of their life cycle.

“By rehabilitating riverbanks, improving fsh passage, and stabilising our river systems, Rous County Council is helping to preserve the environment for future generations while boosting recreational fshing opportunities.

“I congratulate Rous on receiving this important funding and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our local waterways,” Mr Williamson added.

The Flagship Fish Habitat Rehabilitation Grant program provides funding for essential activities such as riverbank rehabilitation, wetland restoration, and the removal of barriers to fsh passage. These projects are crucial to improving the longterm sustainability of our coastal ecosystems.

The funding to is part of a broader $750,000 investment by the NSW Government to enhance fsh habitat and recreational fshing across NSW.

Photo by Discover Richmond Valley

HEARTFELT DONATION TO BE INVESTED IN SUPPORTING NORTHERN NSW CLINICIANS

Palliative Care clinicians across regional NSW, including the Northern NSW Local Health District are invited to further their learning and professional development through nine new scholarships, made possible by a heartfelt donation of more than $22,000 from Newcastle Permanent’s employees.

Two scholarships are available to Palliative Care clinicians working in the Northern NSW Local Health District, a district made up of 11,335 square kilometres.

Applications are now open and will close on Friday 4th October with the recipients to be announced and invited to the upcoming Palliative Care NSW State Conference, to be held in Tamworth, where 250 clinicians are expected to attend.

The conference will be held on 31st November – 2nd November including 45 concurrent presentations, and seven keynote presentations, covering a range of topics including models of care, paediatrics, culturally sensitive care, communication, multidisciplinary team approaches, and technology in palliative care.

These scholarships come after Newcastle

Permanent employee

Taylah Vickers nominated Palliative Care NSW to receive a boost in funding through the customer-owned organisation’s Employee Donation Program.

Each year, Newcastle Permanent employees donate around $50,000 via payroll deductions and nominate charities for causes they are passionate about.

Employees then vote to select four charities each year to receive funding.

Ms Vickers said the nomination, known as Penny’s Promise, was made in memory of a dear colleague and friend who lost her battle to

cancer last year.

“I know a lot of people at Newcastle Permanent have great memories of Penny, and nominating a charity in her name for our Employee Donation Program was an easy choice. It’s a way for us, as the organisation where she worked for almost 25 years, to be part of Penny’s Promise and honour her memory,” she said.

“Penny had one last wish, which was to raise as many funds as possible to support the work of the Nelson Bay Community Specialist Palliative Care Service who made her fnal days comfortable for her

family.

“I’m touched that our donation will directly support clinicians and go towards further education opportunities –that is what Penny would have wanted.”

Penny’s husband, Paul Heagney, said he was grateful to Newcastle Permanent for making the bequest possible.

“Newcastle Permanent was such a large part of Penny’s life. She developed lots of strong friendships with good people during her working days,” Mr Heagney said.

“The team at the Nelson Bay Community Specialist Care Service

took such good care of Penny and our family, so to see Palliative Care NSW receive this funding feels like a shining light at the end of what has been a dark tunnel – you couldn’t fnd a better cause.”

Palliative Care NSW CEO, Kirsty Blades, said scholarships have a key role in supporting ongoing education and engaging the sector.

“We know that there is a great yearning for further education among clinicians right across regional NSW, but funding for this can be challenging for services and self-funding education can be cost

prohibitive for clinicians, so we are thrilled to announce these scholarships thanks to the support of Newcastle Permanent,” Ms Blades said.

“We look forward to inviting the recipients to our upcoming conference where they can connect with their peers, and where we will be showcasing our sector, which continues to go above and beyond for palliative care patients and their families across the state.

“Along with our conference scholarships, Newcastle Permanent’s generous gift will allow us to provide additional education, self-care and wellbeing scholarships to the team at Nelson Bay Community Specialist Palliative Care Service who took such wonderful care of Penny and her family.”

The two scholarships are open to clinicians from across the Northern NSW Local Health District, including Ballina, Grafton, Lismore, Casino and Urbenville.

Further information on scholarships and applications can be accessed via the QR code below.

GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR CLARENCE AND RICHMOND VALLEY GROUPS TO DELIVER PROGRAMS TO SUPPORT WELL-BEING OF SENIORS

Not-for-proft organisations, Aboriginal-led organisations, multicultural groups and local councils are being encouraged to apply for a share of $840,000 in funding under the NSW Government’s 2025 Connecting Seniors Grant Program.

Clarence Nationals MP, Richie Williamson said the program aims to support projects and initiatives that help older people connect with others, reduce

social isolation, and improve overall wellbeing.

“It focuses on benefting people aged 65 and over, as well as Aboriginal people aged 50 and over, through programs that foster inclusion and social engagement,” Mr Williamson said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for community groups, not-for-profts and councils in the Clarence and Richmond valleys to deliver projects that

improve the social inclusion and wellbeing of older people.

“These grants can help address the challenges of isolation by fostering stronger connections, whether through social events, recreational activities, or intergenerational programs.”

The 2025 program includes fve categories:

• Aboriginal Grants: Four grants for Aboriginal-led organisations

or Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.

• Multicultural Grants: Four grants for multicultural organisations serving Culturally and Linguistically Diverse groups.

• Creation Grants: Six grants for new, innovative projects.

• Enhancement or Expansion Grants: Six grants to expand existing initiatives.

• Local Council Grants: Eight grants for

council-led projects.

“I encourage all eligible organisations to apply, particularly with the introduction of grants aimed at Aboriginal and multicultural communities, which can make a real difference in our region,” Mr Williamson added.

The Connecting Seniors Grant Program is part of the NSW Government’s Ageing Well in NSW: Seniors Strategy 2021-2031, specifcally focusing

on Priority Area 3: Participating in Inclusive Communities. Since its launch in 2020, the program has funded over 120 projects, reaching more than 30,000 seniors across NSW.

Applications close on 21 October 2024.

To fnd out more and apply, visit the QR code below.

Newcastle Permanent employees at Golf Day in memory of Penny.

CASINO SHOW

Grab your tickets via the QR code below.

Nigel Dawe

MANY times, over the course of my days I’ve pondered the guestlist of a hypothetical party I’d love to throw, one in which I could invite anyone from all of history (after being, of course granted this wish by a genie). I’ve even gone as far as giving thought to the actual seating arrangements.

The sheer possibilities are endless, and depending on whether you’d prefer the flare of a room full of smarty pant types, or just one packed by those of a tranquil disposition: what an experience it’d be! I’d personally go for a mix of very different, but no less impressive figures, some known, and some not so known.

Not necessarily in any order, Shakespeare would get my nod, having once said, “I drink to the general joy o’ the whole table…

We know what we are, but know not what we may be.” Next in line would be his Spanish equivalent, Cervantes (a man who died the very day after Shakespeare himself, in 1616). Wonderfully, the creator of Don Quixote once noted, “In order to attain the impossible, one must attempt the absurd… Every person is the child of their own works.”

Hot on their heels I’d have someone like the metaphysical poet Rumi, “Let the beauty of what you love be what you do…When someone beats a rug, the blows are not against the rug, but against the dust in it.” I’d then seat Kahlil Gibran, “Keep me away from the wisdom which does not cry, the philosophy which does not laugh and the greatness which does not bow before children.” As well as Rainer Maria Rilke, “I

Flagship funding great news for North Coast’s Bungawalbyn Creek

live in widening circles that reach out across the world…The purpose of life is to be defeated by greater and greater things.”

Nearby I’d locate Oscar Wilde, “Only the shallow know themselves… Society exists only as a mental concept; in the real world there are only individuals.” Perched smirkingly beside this eternal life of the party would be his German equivalent, Frederich Nietzsche, “If we could communicate with the mosquito, then we’d discover that it floats with the same selfimportance… I searched for great human beings but I only ever found the apes of their ideals.”

To soften and keep the above two firebrand personalities (who both died in 1900) on their toes, I’d put the Catholic mystic, Simone Weil, “May the eternal light give, not a reason for living and working, but a sense of completeness which makes the search for any such reason unnecessary…We have to rediscover the original pact between the spirit and the world in this civilisation of which we form a part.” To bolster the balance, I’d then add our own trail-blazing Miles Franklin, “The world nevertheless is enchanting, the biggest tragedy is that we are such ephemeral moths.”

The remaining tables would be peppered by people as diverse as Barangaroo, Kafka, Cleopatra, Tagore, Thoreau, Hypatia, Beethoven, Basho, Albert Camus, Confucius, and of course the quickest quickthinker of all – Voltaire, “Life is a shipwreck, but we must not forget to sing in the lifeboats.”

The Minns Government has allocated a $158,000 grant to restore 1,600m² of fsh habitat along Bungawalbyn Creek, a key tributary of the Richmond River and a popular bass fshing destination. This funding is part of the Flagship Fish Habitat Rehabilitation Grant Program, which supports projects that enhance fsh habitats across

NSW. The project at Bungawalbyn Creek will focus on installing a mix of habitat structures, including rock formations, snags, and riparian vegetation along 200 meters of the creek’s banks, providing diverse environments for different fsh species. This initiative aims to safeguard the creek’s ecosystem, which holds high conservation value,

and further support its role as a recreational bass fshing spot. Bungawalbyn Creek is well-regarded for its biodiversity, making it a crucial site for both local fsh populations and recreational fshing enthusiasts. The grant is part of a broader government commitment to improve fsh habitats across the state’s coastal regions through the

NSW Recreational Fishing Trust, funded by the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, emphasized the importance of these grants in assisting fsh stocks, particularly following recent extreme natural events that have impacted North Coast waterways.

State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn, also highlighted the environmental signifcance of the project, noting the creek’s rich biodiversity and the community support for its rehabilitation.

For more details, visit the NSW Government’s website or the Recreational Fishing Trust information page.

More Main Arm funding applications approved

IAN ROGERS

Two more critical infrastructure funding applications for Main Arm, which was severely impacted by the 2022 food, have been formally approved. Byron Shire Council’s Manager of Infrastructure Recovery, Phil Warner, expressed his satisfaction with the approvals, emphasizing that this would bring relief to hinterland

residents. The aim is to begin work by the end of 2024 or early 2025, depending on weather conditions.

Approved Repairs Include:

• Causeways: Repairs to multiple causeways at Palmwoods and Main Arm, including Palmwoods Road Causeways 1, 2, and 3, and Main Arm/Upper Main Arm Causeways 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 13.

• Culverts: Two

culverts on Main Arm Road, including one near Coolamon Creek and another near 1436 Main Arm Road.

• Main Arm Road Repairs: Sections between Main Arm Upper Public School and Dry Creek Road will undergo repairs, with culvert work already completed.

A portion of this project is funded by Council’s maintenance budget, with additional fnancial support

coming from the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). The Council is also collaborating with Transport for NSW to expedite the approval of further food recovery funding applications. For more details, residents are encouraged to visit the Byron Shire Council’s website.

One hell of a party… by

NSW Government Unlocks Land for Over 1,100 New Homes as Part of Housing Push

IAN ROGERS

The Minns Labor Government has announced the approval of 10 additional government-owned properties that will provide nearly 1,100 new homes, following the latest fndings from the government’s property audit. This forms part of the NSW Government’s broader initiative to address the state’s housing crisis by repurposing surplus land for housing development across metropolitan and regional areas.

The identifcation of these sites is a key element of the government’s commitment, outlined in the recent budget, to deliver up to 30,000 new homes in welllocated areas, close to transport and essential infrastructure. This ambitious target is backed by a historic $5.1 billion investment in

public housing, which aims to ease the state’s housing affordability crisis and provide more options for low- and middle-income families.

Newly Approved Sites and Development Plans

The latest approved sites include nine in Sydney and one in Newcastle. Of these, three major sites—Woolloomooloo, Sydney Olympic Park, and Hurstville—will be transferred to Homes NSW. These locations are expected to deliver

nearly 600 homes, with over half designated for social housing.

Other identifed sites in Marsfeld, Seaforth, Minto, Newcastle, and three locations in Arncliffe will be developed through Landcom or in partnership with private developers. The fnal housing mix and project specifcs will be determined after a period of due diligence and market assessment over the coming months.

Addressing NSW’s

Housing Crisis

Housing affordability remains a critical issue in New South Wales, where the high cost of living continues to push many families out of Sydney.

A recent Productivity Commission report highlighted that from 2016 to 2021, the city lost twice as many people aged 30 to 40 as it gained, underscoring the urgent need for more affordable housing solutions.

Premier Chris Minns reaffrmed the

government’s priority to ensure more homes are built in well-connected, high-demand areas. “Housing costs are the single largest cost of living pressure for people across NSW,” Minns said. “We need to take direct action to prevent young people from leaving the state due to unaffordable housing options.”

A Coordinated Effort

to Boost Housing Supply

Steve Kamper, Minister for Lands and Property, stressed the importance of leveraging government-owned land to increase housing supply. “This property audit is a process that has never been done before by the state government, and we are using it to activate surplus land for homes that our communities need,” Kamper noted.

Rose Jackson, Minister for Housing and Homelessness, echoed these sentiments,

highlighting the signifcance of building homes in areas with essential infrastructure such as schools and transport. “For too long, affordable homes in well-located areas have been out of reach for many. This land release is a clear signal of our commitment to delivering real housing solutions for families across NSW,” she said.

The release of these properties follows the government’s recent large-scale investments in social and affordable housing, as well as the largest rezoning effort in the state’s history, all aimed at tackling the housing crisis head-on and ensuring a more sustainable future for New South Wales residents.

For more information on the NSW Government’s ongoing housing initiatives, visit the offcial government website.

Photo by NSW Government

In today’s fast-paced world, technology is at the heart of nearly every industry. Whether it’s healthcare, fnance, education, or entertainment, technology has reshaped how we live and work. For those who are passionate about technology, the possibilities for career paths are nearly endless, with opportunities to innovate, solve problems, and make a lasting impact. If you’re fascinated by technology and eager to build a fulflling career, here’s a guide to some of the most exciting and in-demand career paths you can explore.

1. Software Development

Perhaps the most well-known tech career is software development. Whether you’re building apps, websites, or internal systems for companies, software development offers endless opportunities for creativity and problemsolving. Developers write the code that powers applications, from the simplest mobile game to complex banking systems. You can specialize in different programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, C++, or Swift, depending on the types of projects you want to work on.

A software development career is highly adaptable, allowing you to work

as part of a large team at a tech company, in a specialized feld like AI development, or even as a freelance developer.

2. Data Science and Analytics

As the world becomes increasingly datadriven, the demand for professionals who can analyse and interpret data is skyrocketing.

Data scientists and analysts help companies make informed decisions by analysing vast amounts of data to identify patterns, trends, and insights. These insights can range from understanding consumer behaviour to optimizing business operations.

Data science involves a blend of programming, statistics, and machine learning. Many industries, from retail to healthcare, rely on data science to predict future trends, improve customer experiences, and even

combat issues like fraud. If you’re someone who enjoys working with numbers and patterns, this feld could be an ideal ft.

3. Cybersecurity

With the rise of digital technologies comes an increase in cyber threats. This has created a huge demand for cybersecurity professionals who can protect data and systems from malicious attacks. Cybersecurity involves securing networks, systems, and data from hacking, phishing, and other cybercrimes.

Careers in this feld range from ethical hacking (testing systems for vulnerabilities) to roles like information security analysts or cybersecurity engineers.

As companies become more aware of the risks posed by cyber threats, cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing career paths. If you

LIAM JENNINGS

The Google Pixel Watch 3, launched in September 2024, represents a signifcant upgrade in Google’s smartwatch lineup. Available in two sizes - 41mm and 45mm - it now features brighter and larger Actua displays with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, making it ideal for outdoor visibility. This larger display comes with smaller

bezels, offering up to 40% more screen space on the 45mm version. The watch is powered by Wear OS 5, which brings improved battery effciency, with the 45mm model offering up to 36 hours of battery life, even with the always-on display enabled.

A key focus for the Pixel Watch 3 is ftness and health tracking, integrating advanced tools like Daily Readiness, Cardio Load, and Target Load. These

features help users balance their workouts and recovery based on real-time health data. Additionally, the Loss of Pulse Detection feature

enjoy solving complex problems and staying a step ahead of potential threats, this might be the perfect career for you.

4. Artifcial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

AI and ML are among the most exciting and cutting-edge felds in technology today. AI is the simulation of human intelligence in machines, while machine learning is a subset of AI that allows systems to learn from data and improve over time. AI is already transforming industries such as healthcare, fnance, transportation, and even entertainment.

Working in AI or ML could involve developing algorithms that drive innovations like self-driving cars, virtual assistants, or personalized recommendations on streaming services. With

constant advancements in the feld, there’s no shortage of career opportunities for tech enthusiasts interested in AI and ML.

5. Cloud Computing Cloud computing has revolutionized the way businesses operate by allowing them to store and access data and applications over the internet rather than relying on local servers. As more businesses migrate their operations to the cloud, the demand for cloud architects, cloud engineers, and cloud security specialists is on the rise.

Working in cloud computing often involves managing cloud services, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud. These roles are crucial for ensuring that businesses can effciently scale their operations, maintain data

security, and optimize performance.

6. User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) Design

Not all tech careers require a deep understanding of code. If you’re passionate about the design and functionality of digital products, a career in UX or UI design could be a great ft. UX designers focus on the overall user experience, ensuring that products are intuitive and user-friendly. UI designers, on the other hand, work on the visual elements of a product, like buttons, menus, and layouts.

These roles are crucial in ensuring that websites, apps, and other digital products meet the needs of users and provide a seamless experience.

As more companies recognize the importance of good design, demand for skilled UX/UI designers continues to grow.

7. Robotics Robotics combines software, hardware, and engineering to create machines that can assist or replace human activities. This could range from manufacturing robots in factories to robots that perform surgeries or even explore space. If you’re passionate about the idea of building machines that can make life easier or push the boundaries of what’s possible, a career in robotics could be highly rewarding.

is a new life-saving tool that can automatically call emergency services if a sudden pulse loss is detected.

The Pixel Watch 3’s

health features are powered by Fitbit, offering workout tracking, sleep monitoring, and a new Morning Brief that summarizes your health stats each morning. It also boasts GPS tracking and deeper integration with the Google ecosystem, allowing you to control devices like your Pixel phone and Google Home products directly from the watch. In terms of design, the Pixel Watch 3 maintains the sleek aesthetic of

its predecessors, with enhanced durability and a range of band options. The 45mm version also comes with a larger 420mAh battery for extended use, making it a better choice for those who need longer wear times.

Priced at around $650 and up, the Pixel Watch 3 continues to be positioned as a premium wearable, competing with the likes of the Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch.

2025 Ford Ranger PHEV Makes Global Debut

JEFF GIBBS

Ford has offcially unveiled the 2025 Ranger Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), marking a signifcant step in the automaker’s electrifcation strategy.

Backup Assist, and a 360-degree camera. It also boasts 18-inch alloy wheels, a honeycomb grille, fender vents, a decal kit, and a luxurious interior featuring a B&O sound system.

Sport, and XLT, alongside the exclusive launch of It also boasts 18-inch alloy sound system.

The highly anticipated model made its debut at the 2024 IAA Transportation Show in Hanover, Germany, with customer deliveries expected to commence in 2025. The plug-in hybrid powertrain will be available across several Ranger variants, including the Wildtrak, Sport, and XLT, alongside the exclusive launch of the Stormtrak edition.

The Stormtrak launch

Powertrain and Performance

PHEV powered by a 2.3-litre be charged externally, the 10-speed transmission. enhances the Ranger’s

The Ranger PHEV is powered by a 2.3-litre turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engine paired with a 75kW electric motor and an 11.8kWh battery. This combination allows the vehicle to run in fully electric mode for over 45km. The battery can be charged externally, through EV Charge mode, or via regenerative braking, and can be fully charged overnight using a

separator clutch between the engine and the 10-speed transmission. The separator clutch allows the engine and electric motor to operate either together or independently, providing greater fexibility and effciency. This hybrid system enhances the Ranger’s overall performance, offering impressive low-end torque and faster powertrain response.

for optimal performance.”

Advanced Driving and Battery Modes

The Ranger PHEV features four intuitive battery modes:

• Auto EV: Optimises effciency by using both power sources.

• EV Now: Provides all-electric driving.

“The MHT is key to the a truck with a Ranger Modes • Auto EV: Optimises

“The MHT is key to ensuring the Ranger PHEV delivers the capability expected from a truck with a Ranger badge, along with enhanced versatility and improved performance,” said Rob Sharples, chief

Sport mode from the

more dynamic driving

driving conditions. The PHEV also inherits the Sport mode from the Ranger Raptor, enhancing throttle response and gear holding for a more dynamic driving experience.

Towing

and Off-Road

Capabilities

EV Later: Saves depleted, to Auto EV mode to

• EV Later: Saves battery power for future use.

• EV Charge: Recharges the battery while driving. When the battery is nearly depleted, the system defaults to Auto EV mode to maximise fuel effciency. Additionally, the Ranger PHEV incorporates Ford’s Terrain

Ford assures that the Ranger PHEV retains the towing and off-road capabilities of its combustion-powered counterpart, with a towing capacity of 3500kg. Equipped with Ford’s Advanced 4WD system, a dual-range transfer case, rear differential lock, and selectable drive modes, the PHEV remains adept at tackling tough terrains and heavy-duty tasks.

with ease, and function as an EV in urban environments. Thanks to Pro Power Onboard, it also serves as a mobile power plant when off-grid.”

Thanks Pro Power Onboard, it off-grid.”

performance sedan. After earlier reports suggested the project had been scrapped, Kia President Ho-sung Song has hinted that a new halo model is under consideration, signalling the possibility of an electric successor

reportedly well into development and expected to enter production in 2026. This electric performance model was set to share its platform with Genesis vehicles, much like the original Stinger shared

spec GT1 was expected to offer 450kW from dual motors, surpassing the EV6 GT’s 430kW. A 113.2kWh battery could provide a range of 700800km, making it one of Kia’s most powerful and longest-range EVs to

of performance options similar to the original Stinger lineup. While the Stinger exited production in 2023 due to sluggish sales in key markets like Korea, Europe, and the U.S., it remained popular

“The Ranger PHEV delivers all the versatility and capability people expect from a Ranger,” said Sharples. “It can tackle tough terrain, tow

Ranger PHEV retains counterpart, with a transfer case, rear at tackling tough terrains Ranger expect from a Ranger,” terrain,

The Pro Power Onboard system allows the vehicle to supply power to tools or devices, with a maximum output of 6.9kW. The system includes three power outlets, one in the cabin and two in the ute bed, making it ideal for work sites or camping.

The Pro Power Onboard the a maximum output of power the and two in the ute bed, be manufactured in Australia 2025. This model marks vehicles that meet the

The 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV will be manufactured in Silverton, South Africa, with deliveries expected to begin in Australia in 2025. This model marks a signifcant step forward in Ford’s commitment to delivering highperformance, sustainable vehicles that meet the evolving needs of modern drivers. the step in the automaker’s Transportation Show in 2025. The plug-in

Kia Stinger EV Replacement Back

in Australia.

The Stinger was Kia’s frst global performance car, offering rear-wheel drive and a powerful twinturbo V6, positioning it as a direct competitor to German sports sedans and attracting fans of performance-oriented models like the Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore.

Currently, the EV6 GT serves as Kia’s performance fagship, but the potential for a

Stinger-like EV would mark a signifcant step in the brand’s shift toward electrifcation. If the GT1 or another halo EV model goes into production, it would continue Kia’s tradition of offering highperformance, innovative vehicles that appeal to enthusiasts.

For now, enthusiasts can look forward to what could be a worthy successor to the Stinger, blending performance, innovation, and electric power.

JEFF GIBBS

80,000 NSW Tradies Recover Record $76 Million in Unpaid Super

IAN ROGERS

Cbus Super has successfully recovered a record $76 million in unpaid superannuation for 80,000 tradies across New South Wales over the past financial year, marking a significant increase of more than a third compared to the previous year.

Nationally, Cbus Super has recovered $200 million in unpaid super for workers in the construction, trades, and allied industries during FY24.

This recovery effort underscores the growing issue of unpaid super, prompting Cbus to urge the federal government to move forward with its commitment to introduce ‘payday super’ legislation. This legislation, once enacted, will require employers to make super contributions to workers’ funds simultaneously with their salary payments.

“The substantial rise in unpaid super we’ve recovered is a stark reminder of the need for stronger protections,” said Marianne Walker, Cbus Deputy CEO and Chief Member Officer. “Missing out on super contributions early in one’s career

can have long-term consequences, as workers miss out on the benefits of compounding interest and investment returns.”

New research by the Super Members Council (SMC) highlights the impact of missed super contributions. For instance, a worker missing out on $1,800 of super in a single year could see a reduction of $30,000 in their retirement savings.

“While most employers in New South Wales comply with their super obligations, our experience recovering unpaid super shows that more needs to be done,” Ms. Walker added.

The SMC research also reveals that Cbus members are disproportionately affected by unpaid super, with 41% of labourers, 36% of machinery operators and drivers, and 31% of technicians and trade workers missing out on their contributions.

Cbus Super remains one of the few funds actively recovering unpaid super for its members, having secured more than $600 million for 667,000 members over the last five years.

Join us for October Business Month – fresh opportunities await!

Small business operators in the Tweed region are invited to take part in October Business Month 2024, an exciting and diverse range of activities aimed at fostering growth, innovation, and collaboration within the local business community. Following the success of last year, the Tweed Shire Council has expanded its schedule for this year’s event, which will be anchored by the NSW Government’s Small Business Month –Northern Rivers Expo. Northern Rivers Expo: A Highlight of Innovation and Networking

The Northern Rivers Expo will take place at the Twin Towns Conference and Events Centre in Tweed Heads on Tuesday, 15 October, from 1 PM to 7 PM. The Expo will serve as a hub for industry professionals and emerging talent to network, share insights, and showcase the latest advancements in business. Attendees will have access to informative sessions featuring thought leaders discussing current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the business landscape.

A Comprehensive Calendar of Free Events

In addition to the Expo, the Council has organized a series of 10 free events spread throughout the month, catering to the diverse needs of Tweed’s business operators. These events aim to provide opportunities for skills development, knowledge sharing, networking,

and celebration of local business achievements. Workshops will focus on essential topics such as sustainability, branding, and practical advice on conducting business with the Council.

Warren van Wyk, Director of Corporate Services at Tweed Shire Council, emphasized the importance of these initiatives in fostering a thriving local economy.

“The opportunities offered throughout October Business Month reflect our ongoing commitment to genuine engagement and supporting businesses to thrive in the Tweed,” van Wyk said. He noted that the events are designed to equip businesses with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate an ever-evolving market and achieve long-term success.

Future Growth and Collaboration in Focus

The month’s activities will also feature a series of ‘What’s Coming’ conversations, where Council representatives will discuss key developments and opportunities that local businesses can tap into. Networking events at The Citadel in Murwillumbah will provide an informal platform for business owners to share experiences, foster camaraderie, and build valuable relationships.

yet!”

Tweed Businesses Encouraged to Engage in October Business Month 2024

Mr. van Wyk highlighted that October Business Month is part of the broader Succeed in the Tweed initiative, which acts as a support network for businesses throughout the Shire.

“This initiative is a testament to the talent, resilience, and vibrancy that define the Tweed’s business landscape,” he said. “Let’s make this October the best one

How to Get Involved For more information on the October Business Month schedule, including event details and booking information, visit the official Tweed Shire Council website at tweed.nsw.gov.au/ october-business-month. Business operators are also encouraged to join the Succeed in Tweed Facebook Group or sign up for the free e-newsletter for the latest updates on local business opportunities and events. October Business Month provides a unique opportunity for the Tweed business community to learn, grow, and connect, helping to ensure continued success and resilience in the years to come. With a strong focus on innovation and future growth, the Council is committed to supporting the local economy and fostering sustainable business practices.

Boost your business and meet other like-minded people in the Tweed at one of the October Business Month activities on offer.

ROBERT HEYWARD

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

This event is 18+, so leave the kids at home and come prepared for an unforgettable experience. Tap into a world of mystery and intrigue as Jaden Boon takes the stage and transports you on a journey through the power of suggestion. Get ready to be mesmerised and entertained as this show takes you on a wild ride through the power of suggestion. You’ll witness incredible acts of hypnosis that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about the human mind. But that’s not all - you have the chance to be a part of the show yourself!

On a mission to fll the dance foor from start to fnish, Pistol Whip have been providing the soundtrack to a great night for audience throughout the Northern Rivers since 2013. Featuring powerhouse vocals from Renee Shepherd backed up by one of the North Coast’s tightest rhythm sections, Pistol Whip demand a fantastic dance foor experience.

Covering classic from the 70s & 80s, forgotten

Choose to “See the Show or BE The Show” and fnd out just how suggestible you really are. Whether you’re a sceptic or a believer, this show will leave you amazed and

entertained. So, what are you waiting for? Get your tickets now and experience the ultimate in entertainment.

So, gather your group and come join us for a night you won’t soon

memories from the new millennium and today’s chart toppers, there is something for even the biggest wall fower to embrace.

If you are after great night, singing along and fexing the dance muscles you forgot you

we cannot guarantee you can all sit together.

FOOD AVAILABLE:

(Booking Essential with venue) If you are going to have dinner there, please make sure you arrive with plenty of time. All meals need to be eaten prior to the show.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 5th Oct @7:30pm

• Where: South Tweed Sports Club

had, make sure you add a Pistol Whip show you next night out.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday 4th Oct

@9pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: Free

forget.

We promise, it will be an experience unlike any other. So, grab your tickets now and let’s get hypnotised.

**This show contains adult themes and

Course Language**

(No nudity or Stripping)

Seating: Seating is not allocated and is frst best. If you buy tickets separately, please arrive with your entire group as

• Price: $40

• Tickets: Via the QR code

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 APICAL

(a) Relating to bees

(b) Turning away from the sun

(c) Of or at the apex

2 GLAUCOUS

(a) Sea-green

(b) Slightly cupped

(c) Gravelly

3 LEVANTER

(a) One who absconds with bets unpaid

(b) A hare in its first year

(c) A huge sea monster

4 PECCANCY

(a) A trifling fault

(b) Richness

(c) Sinfulness

5 RATIOCINATE

(a) To approve and sanction

(b) To reason

(c) To put on an allowance

PUZZLES Corporate Accommodation

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 In the NATO phonetic alphabet, which word is used to represent the letter, O?

(a) Orange (b) Oblong (c) Octopus (d) Oscar

2 People with what type of blood type are referred to as “universal donors”?

(a) O negative

(b) AB positive (c) A positive (d) B negative

3 Baffin Island is the largest island of which country?

(a) Canada (b) Iceland

(c) New Zealand (d) Chile

4 In 2023, Gina Chick was the inaugural winner of which reality TV series?

(a) Australian Survivor (b) Alone Australia (c) The Voice (Australia) (d) The Bachelor (Australia)

5 Which Australian politician is credited with the quote, “This is the recession we had to have.”?

(a) Paul Keating (b) Gough Whitlam (c) Bob Hawke

(d) Malcolm Fraser

6 Mbabane is the most populous city of which African country?

(a) Zimbabwe (b) Uganda (c) Eswatini (d) Namibia

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

ALFAKODO

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

GREAT AUSTRALIAN CONCERTS: COLD CHISEL

SBS, 7.30pm

A cosy Friday night in front of the box just got a little more exciting – and rowdier. They’re Aussie rock royalty, responsible for some of the most legendary tunes that blare from pubs to parties and lounge rooms and demand to be sung with vigour and gleeful zeal. From “Khe Sanh”, to “Flame Trees” and “Cheap Wine”, there’s a treasure trove of classic songs. Expect noise levels to be elevated around homes nationwide as SBS serves up this iconic gig from Sydney Entertainment Centre in 1983 to mark Cold Chisel’s 50th anniversary tour. Billed as their nal performance, it’s a raw and invigorating display of rock’n’roll at its nest.

FRIDAY, October 4

WEDNESDAY

QUESTION EVERYTHING

ABC TV, 8.30pm

Tired of the news? You’re not alone, but you can count on comedian Wil Anderson (pictured) to entertain as he spears the headlines and the endless cycle of news stories in a hilarious, thought-provoking fashion. Along with co-host Jan Fran, the Gruen veteran strings along a panel of clever, emerging comedians to break down the week’s news headlines, dig beneath them and polish up a fresh and witty perspective. How was the story covered, what went wrong, what was left out and how could it have been covered in a better way? In this everchanging and volatile media landscape, the news is generally not designed to make us giggle, but this panel show does stellar job of it.

THURSDAY

GRAND DESIGNS

ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (6)

AUSTRALIA

ABC TV, 8pm

There’s a playful mood and an excitable sense of anticipation as season 11 of this much-loved homebuilding series kicks o a new era. Original host Peter Madison has own the coop, making way for Anthony Burke, who is a warm and familiar face after hosting Restoration Australia. In tonight’s premiere, Burke is not alone: legendary series creator Kevin McCloud (pictured) joins him on a road trip to explore some of Australia’s most gorgeous and inspired designs. With a mint-green Kombi as their chariot, the duo ham it up visiting inspiring abodes: it’s a lively for this invigorated season, which is rich with creative, luxurious and swoon-worthy builds that will invite delighted gasps.

(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. (PG, R) 1.45 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 2.35 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 3.00 Whale With Steve Backshall. (R) 3.55 The Assembly. (Final, PG, R) 4.40 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.35 Gardening Australia. Jane Edmanson visits vibrant laneway gardens.

8.35 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure: Madagascar. (PG, R) Part 3 of 4. Joanna Lumley’s spice journey continues on the African island of Madagascar.

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

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

10.50 ABC Late News.

11.05 Grand Designs. (PG, R)

11.55 The Larkins. (PG, R)

12.40 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 Grayson’s Art Club. (PG, R) 10.55 Being Beethoven. (PG, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Pompeii: The Origins. (Mv, R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Treasures Of Arabia. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Australian Concerts: Cold Chisel. Concert coverage of Cold Chisel.

8.30 You Can Call Me Bill. (Mav) An intimate portrait of actor William Shatner’s nine decade-long personal journey.

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Soldiers. (Malv)

11.40 The Allegation. (Premiere, Mav) 12.20 Kin. (MA15+dlv, R) 4.15 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.45 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Little J And Big Cuz. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 6.50 Kiri And Lou. 6.55 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Strange Chores. 8.00 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)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Hailey

Seven

The

At 4.

Australia. (R)

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs meets Ronni Kahn the founder of OzHarvest, who are ghting food waste through food rescue.

8.30 MOVIE: A Few Good Men. (1992, Ml, R) Two lawyers defend a pair of US Marines who have been accused of murdering a fellow serviceman. Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, Demi Moore.

11.30 MOVIE: Priest. (2011, Mhl, R) A priest searches for his missing niece. Paul Bettany, Karl Urban.

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

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today. News and current a airs.

7TWO (62)

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Woman. 1.00 Devoured. 1.55 One Star Reviews. 2.25 Over The Black Dot. 3.15 WorldWatch. 5.15 Abandoned. 6.10 Craig Charles: UFO Conspiracies. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey. 10.30 The Doll Factory. 11.25 Better Things. (Return) 12.30am Dark Side Of The Ring. 1.25 King Of The Road. 3.10 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Left O The Map. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 House Of Wellness. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 Harry’s Practice. 3.30 Left O The Map. 4.00 The Zoo. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 I Escaped To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Chris Tarrant’s Extreme Railway Journeys. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: A Town Called Love. (2023, PGa) 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Country House Hunters Australia. Hosted by Catriona Rowntree.

8.30 MOVIE: Joker. (2019, MA15+alv, R) A mentally ill aspiring comedian struggles to nd his way in Gotham City’s fractured society. Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz.

11.00 MOVIE: The Disappointments Room. (2016, MA15+alv, R)

A grieving mother unleashes a host of horrors. Kate Beckinsale.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, 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)

6am Danger Man. 7.00 Cre o.

7.30

Dark Hall. (1951, PG) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Antiques Downunder. (Return) 8.30 MOVIE: The Good, The Bad And The Ugly. (1966, MA15+) 12.10am Late Programs.

9GO! (83) 6am Swallows And Amazons. (2016, PG) 7.50 The Taming Of The Shrew. (1967, PG) 10.00 Confessions Of Felix Krull. (2021, M, German) 12.10pm Flee. (2021, M, Danish) 1.50 All At Sea. (2010, PG) 3.30 Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 5.15 Fried Green

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: Mockingjay – Part 1. (2014, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Mortal Kombat. (2021, MA15+) Midnight Love Island UK. 1.10

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. (Return, 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. (Mls, R) Graham Norton is joined by Bernie Taupin, Catherine Tate, Ashley Walters, Bill Bailey and Christine and the Queens. 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)

Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 7.35 The Wife. (2017, M) 9.30 Wonderfully Beautiful. (2022, M, German) 11.55 Spider. (2002, MA15+) 1.45am When Will It Be Again Like It Never Was. (2023, MA15+, Italian) 3.55 Delicious. (2021, M, French) PEACH (52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm My Family. 1.00 Breeders. 1.25 Penn & Teller: Fool

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

E E A

Z L B

D

Z D Today’s target: 10 words average 15 words good 22+ 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)

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Auspac Media

The Solar Eclipse revs up your relationship zone, so you’ll experience the greatest satisfaction if you share your goals and dreams with other like-minded people. Collective collaboration is the key. But you need to think long-term and be patient. Do your best to get the balance right between being creative and being productive; between having inspirational ideas and making practical progress. On Sunday, resist the urge to speak impulsively and act rashly.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

The mid-week Solar Eclipse stimulates your daily routine/work/wellbeing zone (and taskmaster Saturn trines your ruler Venus). So it’s time to be disciplined as you draw up a to-do list, apply for a new job, or reboot your diet and exercise routine. And don’t be disappointed if something comes to a natural end. Be inspired by birthday great, singer and actress Julie Andrews (who turns 89 on Tuesday): “When one door closes, another window opens.”

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

Mercury (your patron planet) and the Solar Eclipse are energising your creativity and peer group zone, so it’s a wonderful week to create, inspire, socialise and fraternise. An exciting new romance or friendship could be just around the corner! Are you single and looking for love? You could be introduced to your future partner via a work colleague, client or customer. Monday is the best day to tick the to-do list and get things done financially and professionally.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

With the Solar Eclipse and Mercury stimulating your domestic zone, it’s time for a new DIY project or a fresh family chapter. But there’s also a tricky Mercury/Mars square on Sunday, so slow down and think things through, otherwise you could find yourself smack bang in the middle of an argument or accident. There is much inner peace to be found via activities like meditation, contemplation, yoga and tai chi as you listen to the wisdom from within.

You’re in the mood to talk, text, tweet, publish and/or podcast as the Solar Eclipse activates your communication zone. New connections within your local community are also likely. But there’s a Mercury/Mars square, so make sure you convey your message clearly and concisely, otherwise disagreements are likely. Are you keen to borrow money, make an expensive purchase or sign an important contract? Saturn cautions you to be patient and wait.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

The mid-week Solar Eclipse signals a fresh financial chapter, so start planning now. Long term partnerships (of the romantic, platonic and business variety) are also highlighted. Saturn tests perseverance, Venus – cooperation, and Mars –passion. But don’t get bogged down in gossip and criticism. Keep the conversation inspiring and uplifting! Your weekly motto is from birthday great, actress Julie Andrews: “Perseverance is failing 19 times and succeeding the 20th.”

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

With a Solar Eclipse in your sign (and Mars visiting your professional/life direction zone) be more proactive about where you are heading. Don’t just hope that things will magically change. The midweek eclipse is the ideal time to set intentions and make wishes involving personal projects, physical appearance and individual goals. Most of all … enjoy yourself! Draw inspiration from birthday great, Kate Winslet: “Life is short, and it is here to be lived.”

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Scorpions are sometimes stubborn creatures, which can put others offside. You can also be jealous, possessive and materialistic, as your acquisitive side goes into overdrive. This week Venus is visiting your sign, which highlights your desire for harmony and balance. So strive to be more adaptable, as other people won’t behave in predictable ways. Smart Scorps will choose compromise over confrontation, diplomacy over drama, and generosity over greed.

The mid-week Solar Eclipse is the perfect time to revise, reassess and reboot your hopes, goals and dreams for the future. Think of creative ways you can navigate the unpredictable economic landscape, adapt professionally and pivot personally. Taskmaster Saturn also encourages you to be more responsible at home and more accountable with family members. If things aren’t going well with loved ones, then it’s time to communicate and cooperate!

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Mercury and the Solar Eclipse light up your career zone, so utilise your communication skills and natural charm to attract opportunities into your world. Then use your can-do Capricorn attitude to take action. Monday’s terrific Mars/Saturn trine reminds you to be proactive and practical. Preparation is the key. As singer/actress (and birthday great) Julie Andrews observes: “Work hard, apply yourself and be ready. Then, when an opportunity comes, you can grab it.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) Are you restless for physical adventure and mental challenges? The Solar Eclipse illuminates your travel and education zone, so it’s time to explore, study and experiment! Negotiation planet Venus also encourages you to compromise and hold out the olive branch of peace (especially to a stressed colleague at work). Attached Aquarians – don’t put your career before relationships. Singles – you could meet your soul mate via a colleague, client or customer.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) The mid-week Solar Eclipse spotlights close partnerships, intimacy, secrets, trust issues and joint finances. With Saturn still transiting through your sign, you will make messy mistakes and experience disappointments along the way. But don’t let them deter you from your chosen path. With hard work and a positive attitude, you can turn things around. As birthday great Truman Capote wrote: “Failure is the condiment that gives success its flavour.”

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

With October here, let’s have a look at some new flms that are being released in cinemas!

JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX

Releasing precisely fve years after the critically adored box offce smash hit Joker (2019), director Todd Phillips delivers the highly anticipated psychological thriller/ musical sequel, JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX.

Joaquin Phoenix returns to the role that earned him an Academy Award, Zazie Beetz also reprises her role from the frst flm, with Lady Gaga, Brendan Gleeson and Catherine Keener joining the ensemble cast. JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX fnds Arthur Fleck institutionalized at Arkham awaiting trial for his crimes as Joker. While struggling with his dual identity, Arthur not only stumbles upon true love, but also fnds the music that’s always been inside him.

RELEASE DATE: October 3rd

HELLBOY: THE CROOKED MAN

The fourth instalment in the HELLBOY series, written by the legendary Hellboy creator Mike Mignola. A rookie agent fnds herself in a dire

situation when tasked with delivering a high risk item to the Bureau of Paranormal Research and Defence. She must enlist the help of Hellboy to confront the malevolent Crooked Man, who has returned to Earth to harvest souls for the devil.

RELEASE DATE: October 10th

SMILE 2

Following the release of the smash hit, Smile is back for a second story. About to embark on a new world tour, global pop sensation Skye Riley (Naomi Scott) begins experiencing increasingly terrifying and inexplicable events. Overwhelmed by the escalating horrors and the pressures of fame, Skye is forced to face her dark past to regain control of her life before it spirals out of control.

RELEASE DATE: October 17th

LEE

Oscar winner Kate Winslet stars in this fascinating portrait of the great American war correspondent Lee Miller, whose singular talent and ferocious tenacity gave us some of the 20th century’s most indelible images. A former model, Lee is now tired of being

viewed through a lens and by men, and focusses on her own work as a photographer. As the threat of war looms, everything about their daily lives changes completely, almost overnight. Frustrated by the restrictions placed on female photographers at the time, who are limited to documenting life on the home front, Miller urges her female boss at British Vogue, to request permission for Lee to go to the frontline.

RELEASE DATE: October 24th

VENOM: THE LAST DANCE

In Venom: The Last Dance, Tom Hardy returns as Venom, one of Marvel’s greatest and most complex characters, for the fnal flm in the trilogy. Eddie and Venom are on the run. Hunted by both of their worlds and with the net closing in, the duo are forced into a devastating decision that will bring the curtains down on Venom and Eddie’s last dance.

RELEASE DATE: October 24th

For session times for these flms, check with your local cinema!

Welcome to an adventurous day flled with learning, exploration, and reconnecting with nature! Our Rewild Family Survival Skills Day is designed to bring families closer together while teaching valuable skills to thrive in the great outdoors Throughout the day we’ll discover what it takes to survive in the wild. Together we’ll learn how to source and purify water, we’ll build a shelter from natural materials, create fre without a lighter, forage for wild food, learn how to make string from plant fbres and traditional methods of catching food. We also cover managing risk in the Outdoors including snake bite treatment and

Belinda Carlisle returns to Australia in 2024 with her ‘Decades’ tour, which celebrates 35 years of her solo career. Her incredible career started in 1978 with the Go-Go’s where she achieved instant stardom with hits including ‘We Got The Beat’ and ‘Our Lips Are Sealed’. After the band’s break up Belinda Carlisle embarked on her hugely successful solo career and released her frst solo album in 1986, her second album Heaven On Earth produced the worldwide hit ‘Heaven Is A Place On Earth’ which hit number one on both the US and UK charts. The hits kept on coming with the release of her iconic 1989

what to if you become lost.

What to Expect:

• Professional guidance from an experienced instructor passionate about rewilding and survival skills.

• A safe and familyfriendly environment where everyone can participate and learn together.

Opportunities for bonding, teamwork, and creating lasting memories while embracing nature’s wonders.

What to Bring:

• Comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for the weather conditions.

• Sturdy footwear for walking and exploring.

• Water bottles, lunch and snacks for energy throughout the day.

• Swimmers and towel

• Any personal items needed for your family’s comfort.

The most important thing about the Rewild Family survival skills day is we’ll get to spend some quality time with our loved ones in a beautiful natural environment.

Suitable for everyone from your toddler to your grandma, so bring the who family.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 4th Oct @9am

• Where: 3034 Kyogle Rd, Kunghur

• Price: From $130

• Tickets: Via the QR code

album, Runaway Horses which boasted the top 10 hits ‘Leave a Light On’ and ‘Summer Rain’. Belinda Carlisle continued to produce hits including the number one classic ‘In Too Deep’ showing that she had real longevity in the pop scene.

Her Australian Tour ‘Decades’ will feature all her hits in a catalogue of music that infuenced a generation.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Thursday 3 Oct @8pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: $89

• Tickets: Via the QR code

Discover the Untamed Beauty of Madagascar

for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Madagascar, the world’s fourth-largest island, offers an unparalleled mix of wildlife, landscapes, and culture that can be found nowhere else on Earth.

This Indian Ocean jewel, often overlooked by mainstream tourists, is fast becoming a top destination for those seeking adventure, natural beauty, and rare experiences. From its baobab trees and pristine beaches to its vibrant local culture, Madagascar is a lesser known destination waiting to be discovered. One of the primary draws of Madagascar is its biodiversity. Over 90% of the wildlife on the island is found nowhere else on the planet, making it a haven

The island’s unique geography, separated from the African mainland for millions of years, has allowed for the evolution of many unqiue species. Among the most iconic creatures are the lemurs. There are over 100 species and subspecies of lemurs, ranging from the tiny mouse lemur to the majestic indri. In addition to lemurs, Madagascar is home to a wide variety of reptiles, amphibians, and birds.

The rainforests of the island are teeming with colourful chameleons, while its coral reefs and coastal waters are equally diverse, drawing divers and snorkelers eager to explore the underwater world.

The landscape of Madagascar is as

diverse as its wildlife. Visitors can journey from lush rainforests to towering plateaus and dry deserts all within the span of a day. The famous Avenue of the Baobabs, located near Morondava, offers one of the most iconic sights on the island. These towering, ancient trees, which can reach heights of over 30 meters, stand over a dusty, red earth landscape.

The island’s eastern coast is home to Ranomafana National Park, a tropical rainforest full of wildlife and waterfalls. For a stark contrast, head to the limestone formations of the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The unique limestone formations known as “tsingy” create a complex landscape of

sharp pinnacles, offering adventurous travellers the chance to hike, climb, and explore.

Beyond its wildlife and landscapes, Madagascar boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. Its coastal areas and surrounding islands, particularly Nosy Be, have become renowned for their white sands, clear waters, and marine life. Whether you’re interested in lounging on the beach, taking a boat trip to spot dolphins, or diving into the coral reefs, Madagascar’s coastlines offer something for every type of beachgoer.

For the more intrepid traveller, a trip to Île Sainte-Marie offers a fascinating blend of history and natural beauty. This island, just off Madagascar’s eastern coast, was once

a notorious pirate haven, and remnants of this past can still be found today, including an old pirate cemetery. The island also happens to be a prime spot for whale watching, particularly between June and September, when humpback whales migrate to the region to give birth.

Madagascar’s human history is as rich and diverse as its natural one.

The Malagasy people have a culture steeped in tradition and storytelling.

The island’s cities, particularly the capital Antananarivo, offer a glimpse into this cultural heritage, with markets, traditional crafts, and a lively music scene.

Visitors can also immerse themselves in local customs through the island’s festivals. The Donia Festival in Nosy Be, held annually, is a

celebration of Malagasy music, dance, and culture. Another major event is Famadihana, or the turning of the bones, a traditional ceremony where families honour their ancestors by exhuming their bodies, wrapping them in fresh cloth, and celebrating with music and feasting. Madagascar remains one of the world’s last frontiers for travellers seeking something truly unique. Whether you’re hiking through rainforests, looking at the wildlife, or relaxing on the beaches, Madagascar offers an experience like no other. With its rich biodiversity, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, this hidden gem of the Indian Ocean should be at the top of any adventurous traveller’s bucket list.

Corporate Apartment & House Accommodation

LIAM JENNINGS

Push for Power of Attorney Law Reform Gains Momentum

IAN ROGERS

Australia’s Age Discrimination Commissioner, Robert Fitzgerald, has renewed calls for reforming enduring power of attorney (EPOA) laws, following decades of inaction. These reforms, which were frst proposed by National Seniors Australia (NSA) in 2016, aim to introduce nationally consistent legislation to help curb the growing issue of fnancial elder abuse.

Why Reform is Critical Elder abuse, particularly fnancial exploitation, can often go unnoticed as it occurs in private settings, frequently by individuals in positions of trust. The misuse of enduring powers of attorney, where individuals are appointed to make fnancial and

“The time to act is now,” Fitzgerald said, emphasizing that these reforms are vital for safeguarding the financial security and autonomy of older Australians.

legal decisions on behalf of others, is a signifcant avenue for such abuse.

The NSA’s push for reform, supported by Fitzgerald, highlights the need to address gaps in public awareness and knowledge surrounding these documents. The lack of understanding about the responsibilities and risks associated with EPOAs leaves many vulnerable. According to the Empowering Futures report, only 13% of Australians have established an enduring power of attorney, and awareness is particularly low among older

The Password You Should Never Use: How to Protect Yourself from Cybercrime

IAN ROGERS

Financial expert

Paul Clitheroe urges individuals to avoid using easily guessed passwords like “123456,” which hackers can crack in less than a second. Despite increasing awareness of online scams, many Australians are still falling victim to sophisticated fraud, with $73.2 million lost in just the frst three months of 2024, according to Scamwatch.

Cybercrime Is Big Business

Scams have evolved from simple email frauds to large-scale, highly organized operations. Fraudsters are more cunning, leveraging advanced technology and psychological manipulation to trick even savvy consumers. What’s alarming is that, despite knowing the dangers, many people still use simple, predictable passwords,

Australians.

Key Findings and Recommendations

The report recommended that federal, state, and territory governments:

• Introduce nationally consistent EPOA laws.

• Establish a national register for EPOAs.

• Raise public awareness about the importance of setting up EPOAs and understanding the associated risks and responsibilities.

• Develop educational materials, including a dedicated website and training courses, to inform Australians about

EPOAs.

Among the report’s key fndings:

• Only 52% of individuals with an EPOA sought professional advice when creating one.

• 37% of those with an EPOA granted it to someone exhibiting characteristics that are risk factors for elder abuse.

• The overwhelming majority (93%) of Australians support the need for standardized information across the country on fnancial EPOAs.

The Path Forward

Fitzgerald’s appeal follows nearly two decades of stalled action. With gaps in public knowledge and inconsistent legislation across Australian states and territories, the need for reform has become increasingly urgent. “The time to act is now,” Fitzgerald said, emphasizing that these reforms are vital for safeguarding the fnancial security and autonomy of older Australians. He called for the introduction of consistent national legislation to minimize confusion,

ensure better protection for the elderly, and fll critical knowledge gaps that leave them vulnerable to abuse.

The push for reforms, endorsed by both National Seniors Australia and the Australian Law Reform Commission, underscores the necessity of empowering older people and ensuring that their rights are protected. For more information on the report and recommendations, visit the National Seniors Australia website www. nationalseniors.com.au/

putting their fnancial and personal information at risk.

Clitheroe stresses the importance of password security in the ongoing fght against cybercrime. Using a weak, common password such as “123456” is akin to leaving your front door unlocked. Despite how often this advice is repeated, the World Economic Forum reports that millions of people continue to use easily cracked passwords. To protect yourself from hackers, it’s crucial to create long, complex passwords that are unique for every online account. Password managers are a great tool to safely store and manage multiple, secure passwords.

Three Essential Tips for Scam Protection

1. Don’t Use Simple Passwords

Hackers can crack weak passwords like “123456” in less than a second. Choose long, complex passwords that are

diffcult to guess, and use different passwords for every account. A password manager can help you store and organize them securely.

2. Check Your Accounts Regularly

While banks and telcos have improved their security measures, you are your best line of defence. Regularly monitor your bank and credit card accounts for suspicious activity and set up alerts for instant notifcations of transactions. If something doesn’t seem right, contact your bank immediately.

3. Guard Your Personal Information

Your personal details are valuable to scammers, with stolen credit card information being traded on the black market for as little as $10 per card. Be wary of unsolicited messages or emails

asking for personal or fnancial details.

Reputable organizations, including your bank, will never ask for sensitive information via text or email.

Cybercrime: A Growing Threat

Australians lost over $73.2 million to scams in the frst quarter of 2024 alone, and many of these losses went unreported, meaning the true fgure is likely much higher. What’s worse, scams are becoming more sophisticated, making it harder for even the most cautious individuals to avoid falling victim. It’s no longer about poorly written emails claiming inheritance from a Nigerian prince. Today’s scammers use advanced technology and large-scale operations to deceive their targets, often impersonating trusted entities.

Fraudsters prey on your personal details, which can be as valuable as cash. They may steal your credit card information or, in worse cases, your entire identity. This is why Clitheroe recommends regularly checking your credit score for any sudden changes, which could indicate that your information has been compromised. Sites like CreditSmart allow you to check your credit score for free, offering early detection of potential identity theft.

The Importance of Vigilance

Ultimately, one of the most effective defences against scams and cybercrime is a healthy sense of scepticism.

Clitheroe’s mantra rings true: “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” Before clicking on a link,

sharing personal details, or transferring money, take a moment to verify the legitimacy of the request. Scamwatch and Moneysmart provide valuable resources to help you stay informed about the latest scams and how to protect yourself.

If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a scam, contact your bank immediately. Quick action can often prevent signifcant fnancial loss, and there’s no shame in seeking help if you’ve been targeted. The sooner you act, the better your chances of recovering lost funds or minimizing the damage.

For more information on scam prevention, visit the Scamwatch or Moneysmart websites, or ask your bank for advice on protecting your accounts.

How Retirement Bonuses Work

In today’s superannuation landscape, some funds offer a retirement bonus when members transition from the accumulation phase to the pension phase. This bonus comes from funds that were originally set aside to pay capital gains tax (CGT), which is no longer required in retirement.

Approximately one-third of super funds currently offer these bonuses, with amounts and structures varying.

For example, Telstra Super offers 0.5% of the balance up to $8,000, while MLC offers a more generous 1.2%. However, many factors can affect the payout, such as investment choices, waiting periods, and eligibility conditions.

During the accumulation phase, your super is invested, and funds are reserved for future CGT obligations. When you move into retirement, where super income streams become tax-free, that reserved CGT becomes unnecessary. Some funds return a portion of this money to you as a retirement bonus, potentially boosting your retirement savings. However, only a minority of funds offer these bonuses, so it’s important to understand the details if your fund does.

How Bonuses Are Calculated

Retirement bonuses can be calculated in several ways:

1. A fxed percentage of the average account balance over a specifed period.

2. A percentage of the

opening pension account balance, often with a cap. 3. A tailored percentage based on the member’s specifc balance and investment history.

Some bonuses may also come in other forms, like fee waivers, but these are less common. The key takeaway is that the more super you move into the pension phase, the larger your potential bonus.

Real-World Examples

• Telstra Super offers a bonus of 0.5% of the transferred balance, capped at $8,000. To qualify for the maximum, you would need to transfer $1.6 million into a retirement income stream.

• Australian Retirement Trust offers a similar 0.5% bonus with a maximum of $9,500.

• MLC offers a more generous bonus at 1.2%, though the percentage has fuctuated over time. While retirement

bonuses can offer a nice fnancial boost, they are typically one-off payments, and various factors can infuence their size, including investment choices and waiting periods.

Is It Worth Switching Funds?

The idea of switching funds to chase a retirement bonus may seem tempting, but it’s essential to consider the broader picture. Eligibility criteria, such as waiting periods, may apply. For instance, some funds require you to be a member for at least 12 months to qualify for the bonus.

Moreover, the value of the bonus may not be signifcant for everyone. With the median super balance for Australians aged 65-69 being around $200,000, a 0.5% bonus would only amount to approximately $1,000. While it’s extra

Will Your Super Fund

Pay

a Retirement

Bonus?

Here’s What You Need to Know

The idea of switching funds to chase a retirement bonus may seem tempting, but it’s essential to consider the broader picture.

money, the long-term performance of your fund, in terms of consistent returns and low fees, could outweigh the benefts of a modest one-off bonus. Considerations Before Chasing a Bonus

Before switching super funds, it’s important to weigh several factors:

• Consistency of Returns: A fund with consistently strong returns might be more benefcial over time than a one-time bonus.

• Fees: Ensure the fund’s fees don’t erode the value of any bonus.

• Eligibility: Check the fne print on eligibility, waiting periods, and bonus structures.

• Investment Choices: Some funds reduce or eliminate bonuses if you switch to lower-risk options like cash or bonds.

The Growing Trend of Retirement Bonuses

While only one-third of super funds offer retirement bonuses today,

the trend is growing. In 2017, only three funds offered this perk, but more funds are starting to adopt it as competition for retirement savings increases. It’s likely that bonuses will become more common in the future as funds seek to retain members and attract new ones.

The Bottom Line

If your super fund offers a retirement bonus, it’s a welcome boost to your savings as you transition into retirement. However, before considering switching funds for the sake of a bonus, weigh the pros and cons. A consistent, high-performing fund with low fees may ultimately deliver more value than a one-time bonus.

Make sure to check with your super fund to see if a retirement bonus is available and consider your options carefully as you plan for your golden years.

Accessing Superannuation Early While Continuing to Work

For Australians, superannuation is a key asset, but many are confused about how and when they can access it, especially while still working. While accessing super early is generally diffcult due to government rules designed to prevent early depletion, there is a solution for individuals aged 60 and over who wish to keep working and need some fnancial fexibility.

The Basics: Preservation Age and Conditions of Release

Superannuation operates on the principle of helping Australians save for retirement, and to prevent early depletion, early access is restricted. Under normal circumstances, you cannot withdraw from

your super until you reach your preservation age, which is 60 for everyone born after 1964. Withdrawals made after reaching 60 are tax-free, but between the ages of 60 and 65, you can only access your super under certain conditions:

• You must retire permanently.

• Alternatively, you can trigger a condition of release by resigning from any job (even if it’s not your main job).

This limited access presented challenges for people aged 60 to 65 who were looking to reduce working hours but still needed extra income from their super. The Transition to Retirement Pension (TTR) In 2005, the Howard

government introduced a solution called the Transition to Retirement (TTR) pension. This allows people aged 60 and above to draw down a portion of their super while continuing to work and contribute to super at the same time. With a TTR, you can access between 4% and 10% of your superannuation balance annually. This allows you to supplement your income without fully retiring.

The TTR pension is also tax effcient. For example, the money you withdraw is tax-free, and the super contributions you make may attract only a 15% tax rate, signifcantly lower than most marginal tax rates. How a TTR Pension Could Work for You Consider someone aged

60 who earns $120,000 per year, receives $13,800 in employer super contributions, and has $500,000 in super savings. They could withdraw $16,000 tax-free from their super and contribute $16,200 back into super as a taxdeductible contribution. This would reduce their contributions tax to $2,430, while the tax deduction would be worth $5,184, leaving their super balance $2,954 better off. This strategy, known as an income swap, can help you make the most of the difference between your marginal tax rate and the superannuation tax rate.

Helping in Times of Financial Need

Even though super is meant for retirement,

a TTR pension can be a fnancial lifeline for those who are 60+ and facing fnancial diffculties but want to continue working. For example, if someone with $400,000 in super is struggling to make mortgage payments or cover family emergencies, they can access 10% of their super balance, providing $40,000 tax-free in the frst year. This could help alleviate fnancial pressure until their situation stabilizes. Once the immediate fnancial need is resolved, they can either stop the TTR or use it to increase super contributions, boosting their retirement savings while maintaining take-home pay.

The Importance of

Professional Advice

Although superannuation rules have tightened over the years, strategies like TTR still offer signifcant benefts for those looking to manage cash fow while working. However, it’s essential to seek professional fnancial advice to navigate these options effectively and make the most of your super.

Understanding superannuation access rules can help you maximize your retirement savings, avoid unnecessary taxes, and stay fnancially fexible as you transition to retirement.

IAN ROGERS

Property Market Flooded

with Desperate Sellers: How to Avoid Being Low-Balled

As property listings surge across Australia, sellers are grappling with heightened competition and the pressure of adjusting price expectations amidst rising interest rates. With the market becoming more saturated, Kellie Richardson, a respected interior designer and founder of Kurved by Design, advises sellers to step up their game to avoid being low-balled by opportunistic buyers.

The Shift from the COVID Boom

During the pandemic, the real estate boom allowed homes to sell within days, often without the need for staging or extensive marketing.

But the market has now changed. “Unlike the COVID real estate boom, where properties sold in a matter of days without any staging or marketing, simply listing your home is no longer enough,” says Richardson. “Sellers need to work harder to highlight the positives of their property and downplay the negatives. This often requires expertise to understand how to present a property in the best light.”

Failing to do so, she warns, can make sellers

vulnerable to low-ball offers from buyers who may sense desperation and try to capitalize on the cluttered market.

Staging and Presentation are Essential

Richardson, who is also a Feng Shui expert, emphasizes that proper staging can drastically impact a sale price.

“Staging can lift the sale price of your home by hundreds of thousands of dollars if done well,” she explains. “It’s not just about placing pretty furniture around, but about emphasizing the positives of your home.”

For example, if your fooring is damaged, Richardson recommends using neutral-coloured rugs to cover stains, and strategically placing art or mirrors to hide blemishes on walls. By addressing these aesthetic challenges, you can make your home more appealing, allowing potential buyers to envision its potential.

“Buyers are more likely to make genuine offers if they see that the property has been well-prepared for sale. If you don’t make the effort, it signals to buyers that you either don’t care about the

price or can’t afford to improve the property— both signals to lowballers,” she cautions.

Camoufage Imperfections with Plants

Large potted plants, vines, and shrubs are

For sellers on a tight budget, Richardson suggests using temporary fxes like appliance covers, peel-and-stick contact paper, or paint to refresh outdated kitchens or appliances. “Simple improvements

“Staging can lift the sale price of your home by hundreds of thousands of dollars if done well,” she explains. “It’s not just about placing pretty furniture around, but about emphasizing the positives of your home.”

another inexpensive way to conceal unsightly features around the home, such as air conditioning units or peeling exterior paint. Indoors, plants can distract from damaged walls or cracked tiles. “Simple, affordable greenery can dramatically change the mood and feel of a room,” says Richardson.

Temporary Updates for a Modern Look

like updating the look of cabinets or using stainless steel adhesive panels can make an old kitchen appear new, adding thousands of dollars to a property’s value,” she explains. These efforts signal to buyers that the property is well-maintained and will make them more likely to offer a fair price.

Optimising Lighting and Ambience

Lighting plays a critical role in setting the tone for home viewings.

Richardson advises using soft, warm lighting to downplay less desirable areas, while bright lighting should be used to highlight well-maintained spaces.

“Replacing harsh overhead lights with softer lamps or bulbs can shift the focus away from faws,” she says.

Additionally, updating light fxtures or faucets with affordable modern options can create a fresh, inviting space without a hefty investment. Discount department stores or second-hand markets are great sources for fnding budget-friendly lighting and tapware upgrades.

Neutralise Bold Elements and Reorganise Spaces

Richardson advises sellers to neutralise bold wall colours or outdated wallpaper by repainting in neutral tones like white, which creates a sense of light and space. If certain spaces feel cluttered or awkward, repurposing them into functional areas like a small workspace or reading nook can show potential buyers the versatility of the space.

“Staging can solve these problems by reimagining the space with lighting, wall art, and simple furniture,” she says.

Make the Garden an Asset

First impressions matter, and curb appeal is key to attracting buyers.

Richardson recommends paying special attention to the garden by fertilizing the lawn, adding potted plants for colour, and placing focal points like attractive pots or new garden furniture.

“Some people even spray their lawns with lawn paint to green them up,” she notes, adding that these simple upgrades can make a huge difference in the buyer’s initial perception of the property.

Clean, Declutter, and Repair

A deep clean and decluttering are nonnegotiable for sellers.

Removing excess items, especially in utility areas like laundries or basements, can make these spaces feel larger and more inviting. Even temporary repairs, such as patching up cracks or covering damaged surfaces, can help downplay any visible maintenance issues that might otherwise drive down the offer price.

“Buyers look for signs that a property is wellmaintained,” Richardson says. “Visible issues will inevitably factor into their offers, so taking the time to address small repairs can make all the difference.”

Keep Emotions in Check

While it may be tempting for sellers to handle negotiations themselves, Richardson recommends leaving it to the professionals. “It’s important to keep your emotions in check when selling. Buyers can sense hesitation or desperation, so leave the negotiating to your agent.”

By following these strategies, sellers can not only make their property more appealing to buyers but also avoid the trap of accepting low-ball offers.

About Kurved by Design

Founded in 2016 by Kellie Richardson, Kurved by Design offers a range of home design services, including property staging, interior design, retail furniture, homewares, and property maintenance.

In 2020, the company earned the Global CEO Excellence Award for ‘Best Property Styling and Interior Design Business.’ Through her expertise, Richardson continues to help Melbourne homeowners navigate a competitive property market by offering innovative and affordable solutions to showcase their homes at their best.

Kellie Richardson

RAY WHITE CASINO | KYOGLE

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Grinding teeth over grinding beans.

Hot on the heels of last week’s column on the hot-button topic of kettles comes more of the same from the related feld of coffee making.

What is it about making coffee that one of the quietest and most pleasurable things that humans do (without breaching the protocols of, paradoxically, family publications and clean speech), is usually accompanied by some of the

Castelli Denmark (WA) Il Liris Chardonnay 2021, $120. Fancy an Italian family, in a place called Denmark making a French wine for Australians. How multicultural, but it doesn’t mean we’re not racist. However, even racists can enjoy a posh and bold chardonnay, indeed they may relish the old school approach like when racism

loudest and most annoying means of doing so?

Okay, I accept that some of those other things can be noisy too when done properly, and sorry to prolong the metaphor, but I digress…the thing that grinds my beans the most however, is how loud coffee shops are.

Want to have a quiet catch up with a friend over coffee?

This cannot be achieved inside a coffee shop.

was encouraged. 9.7/10.

Castelli Frankland River Shiraz 2020, $37. The unmistakeable air of clever shiraz is almost the unmistakeable air of WA shiraz, but some are a touch above others, and this is one such shiraz. 9.4/10.

Castelli Frankland River Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, $42. If not quite old

Okay, of course they must use an industrial strength grinder because they grind fresh beans for every single coffee and are therefore very industrious bits of gear, but and when they get grinding you can’t hear yourself think let alone hear what your friend thinks!

Surely a little bit of double glazing somewhere in the mechanism would solve the problem and fend off a

enough to be at its best now, it is nevertheless looking pretty good already. Seems a shame we won’t know what it might be like in fve-years-time unless we buy another one and wait. Tempting. 9.5/10. Castelli Great Southern Chardonnay 2023, $37. This might be from a million miles away, unless you live in WA, but it isn’t

lawsuit for hearing loss and tinnitus down the track? Or grind a batch every 5 minutes or so, or would that be too stale for yuppie palates?

And the way they bang the coffee head on the bin to dump the grinds, grrr. Wouldn’t be surprised if they use that technique in Guantanamo when waterboarding fails.

Yet even away from the daily grind things don’t

a million miles from its $120 big sister in terms of quality. Very posh and delicious stuff and only the uber rich, of which there are many in WA to be sure, will opt for the exxy one instead of three of this. 9.5/10.

Richard Hamilton McLaren Vale Gida’s Rosé (Tempranillo Grenache) 2023, $26.

improve. Most domestic coffee machines are noisy little Sunday-morning-sleepin spoilers too and should come with a decibel warning like lawnmowers.

Hardly worth it for the piddly amount of coffee they spit out, and even the funny little milk frother can make a racket when you’re hungover.

And don’t get me started on microwave ovens, but since

Gida was the Richard Hamilton matriarch and bought their frst vineyard in McLaren Vale. Something certainly worth honouring so why not with a rosé? Deliciously savoury with the right amount of everything you look for in light, pink stuff. Extremely easy to have more than you should. 9.4/10.

Richard Hamilton

you have, why not?

Actually, let’s save that for next week when we kick off our very own MAQA campaign, Make Australia Quiet Again.

What better way to launch such a campaign than with the gentle ‘phhhhttt’ of a properly opened bottle of bubbles, the pop of a cork or the equally calming crack of a stelvin cap?

Keep calm and try these:

McLaren Vale ‘Sombra’ Tempranillo 2023, $26. How uncanny we were watching the Stan series The Long Shadow. As grim as it is, the Sombra would be a welcome balm to the anger and frustration the show will invoke, and it’s only 13 percent so you could go a couple of episodes without overdoing itg. 9.3/10.

Max Crus

BREAKFAST EGG AND HAM MUFFINS

5m prep 8m cook

4 servings

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

5 INGREDIENTS

• oil spray

• 4 eggs

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

• 4 (English) muffns, halved and toasted

• 120g shaved leg ham

• 4 slices tasty cheese

BLAT LOADED PASTA SALAD

SLOW COOKED TUSCAN BREAD SOUP

2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 tsp fennel seeds

• Pinch of dried chilli fakes

• 400g can crushed tomatoes

• 400g can Cannellini Beans, drained, rinsed

• 1L (4 cups) Massel vegetable liquid stock

lightly toasted, torn into chunks

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

ITALIAN-STYLE LEMON CHICKEN

• Bouquet garni (4 fresh or dried bay leaves, 4

2 METHOD STEPS

Step 1

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lemon, juiced, zested

• Finely chopped continental parsley, to serve

INGREDIENTS

• 250g dried farfalle pasta

• 4 Thin Sliced Streaky Bacon Rashers, chopped

• 400g punnet tomato medley, small tomatoes halved, large tomatoes quartered

• 1 avocado, sliced

• 50g mixed salad leaves

5m prep 10m cook makes 6

• 3 (about 250g each) Chicken Breast Fillets, halved horizontally

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

• 100g butter, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1/4 cup (50g) drained baby capers

• Zest and juice of 3 lemons

• 1 tomato, fnely chopped

• 1 red onion, fnely chopped

• 1/3 cup pimento-stuffed olives, thinly sliced

• 50g fetta, crumbled

• 1/2 cup fat-leaf parsley

METHOD

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

2. Heat a large fameproof roasting pan over high heat. Melt 20g of the butter in the pan. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 2 mins each side or until the chicken is golden brown and just cooked through. Transfer to a large heatproof plate and cover with foil. Reduce heat to medium.

• 1/3 cup small fresh basil leaves

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar

• 1 tsp wholegrain mustard

• 1/3 cup shaved parmesan

METHOD

“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.”

1. Place 1 piece of chicken between 2 sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound until 1.5cm thick. Repeat with the remaining chicken. Season well.

3. Place remaining 80g butter in the pan and cook, stirring, for 2-3 mins or until the butter melts and is golden brown. Add the garlic and capers to the pan and cook for 1 min or until the capers are crisp. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice and stir to combine. Return the chicken and any juices to the pan. Cook, turning occasionally, for 2 mins or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Meanwhile, place the tomato, onion, olive and fetta in a bowl and gently toss to combine.

5. Sprinkle the chicken with the tomato mixture and parsley and serve immediately.

1. Cook pasta in a large saucepan of boiling, salted water following packet directions. Drain. Refresh under cold water. Drain well

2. Meanwhile, heat a frying pan over high heat. Cook bacon, stirring, for 3 to 4 minutes or until crisp. Drain on paper towel.

3. Place tomato, avocado, salad leaves, basil, pasta and bacon in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine.

- Auguste Escoffer

4. Place oil, vinegar and mustard in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk to combine. Add dressing to salad. Toss to combine. Sprinkle with parmesan. Serve.

PREPARING YOUR LAWN FOR SUMMER:

Tips for a Healthy, Green Lawn in Hot Weather

LIAM JENNINGS

As summer approaches, maintaining a healthy lawn can become a challenge, especially with the soaring temperatures and unpredictable rainfall that many regions face. Preparing your lawn properly for the hot months ahead is essential to ensure it stays green and vibrant. Here are some key steps to get your lawn summer-ready.

1. Mow Strategically

One of the most

effective ways to prepare your lawn for summer is adjusting your mowing routine. During the hot season, it’s best to mow less frequently and raise the cutting height of your mower. Keeping the grass a bit longer—around 7-10 cm—helps shade the soil and reduces water evaporation. Taller grass also promotes deeper root growth, which is essential for water retention during dry spells.

2. Water Deeply, Not Frequently

Proper watering is vital to maintaining a healthy lawn, especially during summer. Instead of watering your lawn lightly every day, it’s better to water deeply once or twice a week. This encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil, making the grass more droughtresistant. Water in the early morning to reduce evaporation and ensure the grass absorbs moisture before the day’s heat. Aim for around 2.5 cm of water per week, depending on your

climate.

3. Aerate the Soil

Aerating your lawn is an often-overlooked step in summer preparation. Over time, soil can become compacted, especially in high-traffc areas. Aerating involves creating small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots more effectively. This improves soil drainage and helps prevent dry patches from forming. Late spring or early summer is an ideal time to aerate, giving the grass

roots space to expand and strengthen before the hottest months.

4. Fertilize Wisely

Fertilizing in the spring can give your lawn the nutrients it needs to thrive during summer. Choose a slow-release fertilizer that provides a steady supply of nutrients over several weeks. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and stress the grass during heatwaves.

5. Weed Control

Weeds compete with grass for water and

nutrients, so it’s essential to control them before summer hits. Apply a pre-emergent weed control product in spring to prevent weeds like crabgrass from taking hold, and spot-treat any existing weeds before they spread.

By following these simple steps, your lawn will be better equipped to handle the summer heat, staying green and healthy throughout the season.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

CASINO NRLX MARKET REPORT 25/09/2024

The yarding for the week totalled 1,050 head, a slight drop in numbers, with 100 fewer cows. The young cattle offering mainly consisted of weaners, with a small number of yearlings. Quality was varied, with many weaners in plain condition. A noticeable absence of regular restocker buyers led to a softer market. Weaner steers for restocking sold 20c cheaper, ranging from 234c to 394c, with medium weights averaging 358c/kg. Weaner heifers fetched between 205c and 324c, while vealers sold to the trade at 230c to 280c/kg. Restocker yearling steers topped at 356c, and feeder steers reached 388c/kg.

The export yarding featured mostly cows, alongside a few pens of grown steers and heifers. Grown steers dropped 10c to 15c, with heavyweights topping at 312c. Grown heifers reached 311c/ kg. The cow market was 5c to 10c cheaper, with some sales dipping further. Medium weight 2 score

GRAFTON

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DONOVAN LIVESTOCK & PROPERTY PH: 02 6643 4411

MARKET REPORT – TUESDAY, 24TH

SEPTEMBER 2024

A total of 422 head were yarded for sale, with 270 export cattle and 152 young cattle. This week saw strong demand for export cattle, especially well-fnished bullocks, which beneftted from an additional export buyer. Bullock prices

WARWICK

LIVESTOCK MARKETS REPORT –WARWICK & DISTRICT (W/E 27/09/2024)

This week saw an increase in cattle and sheep numbers at Warwick and District markets, as growers, uncertain about rainfall predictions, chose to offoad stock. Across most categories, the market showed softer trends due to the infux of livestock, particularly with large yarding’s at Roma and Dalby. Locally, the market was frm to slightly easier, with some categories showing price improvements, notably the good light and trade types, as well as cows. There was strong local support and participation from regular processors. Cattle Market Summary:

• Bulls: Averaged 292.6c/kg, topping at 328.2c/ kg, with prices ranging from $1,678.42 to $3,546.00.

• Cows: Averaged 265.86c/kg, topping at 297.2c/ kg, with prices from $1,436.87 to $2,645.08.

• Feeder Heifers: Averaged 280.8c/kg, topping at 330c/kg, ranging from $943.49 to $1,355.36.

• Feeder Steers: Averaged 347.1c/kg, topping at 390.2c/kg, with prices between $1,268.39 and $1,742.12.

• Heifers: Averaged 299.1c/kg, topping at 322.2c/ kg, with prices between $1,444.38 and $2,267.98.

• Steers: Averaged 318.3c/kg, topping at 341.2c/ kg, ranging from $1,909.20 to $2,772.70.

cows sold from 220c to 257c, while 3 score cows averaged 264c. Heavy 4 score cows ranged between 270c and 295c, with one sale reaching 305c/kg.

improved by up to 15c/kg, reaching a top price of 330c/ kg. Cows held frm from last week, peaking at 302.2c/kg. In the young cattle section, there was a mixed offering of weaners, with good-quality calves selling well, while poorer or out-of-spec types faced tougher market conditions.

SALE HIGHLIGHTS

• Brangus Steers (A/c CJ & CA McDonald): 331.2c/kg, averaging 636.7kg – $2,108.64 p/hd

• Santa Hereford Steers (A/c Angus McDonald): 320c/kg,

• Vealer Heifers: Averaged 270.4c/kg, topping at 326.2c/kg, with prices from $642.94 to $1,104.00.

• Vealer Steers: Averaged 339.3c/kg, topping at 394.2c/kg, with prices between $761.20 and $1,206.67.

• Yearling Heifers: Averaged 302.2c/kg, topping at 378.2c/kg, ranging from $804.40 to $1,506.84.

• Yearling Steers: Averaged 303.7c/kg, topping at 394.2c/kg, with prices between $1,131.32 and $3,546.00.

The average sale price for 1,308 head of cattle was $1,132.68 per head, resulting in a gross sale value of $1.4 million.

Sheep and Lamb Market Summary:

• Lambs: Topped at $200, averaging $142.31 (down $12).

• Hoggets: Topped at $147, averaging $109.24 (up $15).

• Ewes: Topped at $131, averaging $63.44 (down $2).

• Wethers: Topped at $131, averaging $75.78 (down $6).

The total sale for 2,547 head of sheep and lambs averaged $125.37 per head, generating a gross sale value of $319,000.

Other Livestock Sales:

• Boars: Sold from $40 to $290.

• Sows: Sold to $285.

• Light Pork: Sold from $150 to $158.

• Stores: Sold from $28 to $195.

• Barrows: Sold to $55.

averaging 663kg – $2,121.60 p/hd

• Brahman Cross Bullocks (A/c Springwood Grazing): 306.2c/kg, averaging 668.6kg – $2,139.57 p/hd

• Charolais Cross Cow (A/c Lucy Beel): 295.2c/kg, weighing 725kg – $2,140.20 p/hd

• Angus Heifers (A/c PJ & WJ Beel): 290c/kg, averaging 358.3kg – $1,039.17 p/hd

This week’s market refects strong competition, particularly for export-quality cattle, with overall steady demand across various categories.

• Pullets: Sold to $40.

• Hens: Sold to $27.50.

• Roosters: Sold to $17.50.

• Silky Pullets: Sold to $50.

• Turkey Hens: Sold to $62.50.

• Groups of Chicks and Ducklings: Sold to $40.

• Hen & Chicks: Sold to $55.

MCDOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB

REPORT:

Agents and vendors presented a total yarding of 2,547 head at the weekly sale, featuring a mix of western and new season lambs, mutton, and ewe and lamb units. Despite slight declines in some categories, the market remained stable with good local and export demand for well-fnished stock.

• Wingarra Past Co: Sold Dorper lambs (60kg) to Take IT Easy Meats for $196, and suckers (33.75kg) to GR Prime for $108.

• Dugald & Jenny Spencely: Sold Dorper x lambs (43.6kg) to Elliots Butchery for $143.

• Carel Rothman: Sold Dorper lambs (51.6kg) to Eversons for $183.

• Stuart Timms: Sold Dorper lambs (57.5kg) to Eversons for $191.

• Armstrong Family: Sold Dorper hoggets (55kg) to Take IT Easy Meats for $130.

This week’s livestock markets refected caution from growers in response to uncertain weather conditions, while prices remained competitive across various categories.

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

CLEARING SALE

SJ & JA PEREIRA

43 Ellis Road, Braunstone NSW

MACHINERY, FARM EQUIPMENT & BUILDING SUPPLIES

By Helen Trustum

The frst residents in the Wyan district were A. and E. Smith. They were graziers and later established a store. In 1894 St. Aiden’s Church was built on land given by Mrs George Clark.

The Wyan Public Hall was built in the early 1900’s, not sure of the exact year. The frst recorded minutes date back to May 8 1933. At a meeting in November

1933, it was decided to add extensions to the hall. The Secretary, C. Godbee, was asked to see the Commonwealth Bank for an advance on money to cover costs of one hundred pounds. The supper room was also extended. This was carried out with great diffculty as the sawn timber was 4 inches in width and the existing boards were 6 inches.

At the annual meeting held on February 7

1934, the following offcers were elected: President A. J. Burnett, Vice President O. Small, Secretary C. Godbee, Treasurer W. Lollback. Committee; W. Puxty, P. Kingsley, E. Williams and Mrs Williams.

Final arrangements were made for the Annual Ball on February 9 1934 to coincide with the offcial opening of the hall extensions. For the raffes – Mr Kingsley donated a bag of corn,

Miss Burnett a cushion cover and Kipenduff P & C a guinea (21/-). A blue ribbon was to be placed across the new portion of the hall and Mrs Katherine Lollback was asked to cut the ribbon and declare the portion open. The Mallanganee Band was asked to play for fve pounds with Miss Meg Everson as pianist.

At the September 1934 meeting the Wyan School teacher Mr Leslie

McPherson asked if the hall committee would grant permission to the school children for the use of the hall paddock to graze their horses while they were at school.

A farewell social and presentation was organized for Mr and Mrs Godbee. The committee presented them with a wallet of notes. Miss Ruth Sweeney provided the music.

Those present at the Annual Meeting on March 1 1946 were: N. McDonald, W. Lollback, P. Seery, H. Jaggers, J. McDonald, O. Small. Mesdames Seery, Ellem, Townsend, Rapp, Burnett, McDonald and Jaggers.

On June 16 1947 a ball was held in the Wyan Hall in honour of the King’s birthday. A storm hit the Wyan District on December 6 1947 (Election Day)

Wyan Hall

Supper time in Wyan Hall - 1951 Sylvia Burnett, May Farr, Thelma Marsh, Ted Hannah, Lola Lollback, Stella Lollback, Geraldine Lollback, Eric Brewer, Bill Lollback and child Narelle Marsh.

By Helen Trustum

tearing the roof off the Wyan Hall. Crops were fattened in the area.

During the day the hall was used as a polling booth for the election.

Mr Ray Johnston was asked to repair the roof of the hall.

A kitchen tea was held on June 28 1948 for Miss Marjorie Lollback prior to her marriage to Mr Ned Ford.

Ford Brothers donated timber to line the stage on November 7 1953.

Mrs E.D. Blackadder and R. D. Olive donated paint for the roof of the hall. Entertainment in the hall over the years has been provided by

Hoults Orchestra: J. Wall, Leeville: Realto Orchestra: Reg Farr and Bill Marsh: Celebrities Orchestra: Betty Cole and Brian Hoult. Owing to overhead costs and upkeep of the hall the committee found it hard to hang on to their hall. On March 5 1961 the Hall Committee decided to write to the Chief Secretary’s Department and withdraw the hall’s licence. On April 4 1961, trustees were asked to see a solicitor regarding the future of the Wyan Hall. The hall and piano were sold to Cec Davis for two hundred and four

pounds. Money from the sale was given to the Progress Association. The frst application for a school at Wyan was made in 1897, however this was not approved. The next attempt in 1903 faired a little better with the Inspector recommending that a subsidy be offered to parents to set up a Subsidised School. By September 1903 a school was set up in a local barn with Maggie Booth as the teacher. In 1904 a request was made for a Provisional School for Wyan. This was approved. The parents arranged to

move the former Deep Creek School building to Wyan. The two acre land site was cleared for the school. The teacher, Mr Stanley Allen, opened the school on November 1 1904. In October 1907 the school’s status was raised to a Public School. A proposal was made to move the now Fiddle Creek School to Wyan at a cost of sixty fve pounds. The question of a teacher’s residence was raised several times. It was knocked back in 1912 so the teacher William O’Neill and his wife moved into the old Wyan School building. The walls were lined

with hessian and pasted over the hessian with newspaper to make it more comfortable. This remained their residence until 1921.

Mr Grandville (Bill) Marsh taught at the school from 1940 to 1961 where he provided good teaching and stability to the school. In 1984 the school was to close but not before an organized celebration of the schools 80 years old service to the community was held on September 30 1984. This was the fnal year of the Wyan School. The school was closed and the building was transferred

to Modanville, the tank with it’s distinctive mural went to Lowanna and the weather shed was moved to Leeville Public School where it was refurbished to begin a new career as a staff room.

Ref: Wyan Public Hall Minute Book held by Betty Hannah: Keith Cole, Busby’s Flat, Nov. 1997: Primary Schools of the Casino District by John Selwood: Centenary of Education in Leeville 1888 – 1988 by Bruce Reineker.

May Farr, Sylvia Burnett and Thelma Marsh at the Wyan Hall - 4/8/1953

Wyan Cemetery

Sign post at Wyan

Bill Marsh and Reg Farr playing for one of the dances at the Wyan Hall - 1951.

Honour Roll from Wyan Hall

$16.7 Million Agriculture Precinct Launched to Bolster Australia’s Agritech Future

local economy. Project Details

The Albanese Government is advancing Australia’s position as a global leader in agritech by investing $16.7 million into Western Sydney University’s (WSU) Agri Tech Precinct. This signifcant initiative aims to create a world-class hub for research, innovation, and sustainable agriculture, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to building resilient food systems.

Once complete, the Agri Tech Precinct will serve as a cutting-edge centre for education, collaboration, and technological advancement in agriculture. The project promises to offer students innovative education pathways and foster partnerships with other agricultural institutions, positioning Western Sydney as a key player in global agritech development.

The total cost of the project is estimated to be around $30 million, co-funded by WSU and supported through the Albanese Government’s Priority Community Infrastructure Program. This project was a key election commitment, designed to strengthen the region’s agricultural and economic future.

The Agri Tech Precinct, located on WSU’s Hawkesbury campus, will span approximately 50 hectares and will be delivered in two stages.

The Commonwealth’s $16.7 million investment covers the frst stage, with construction scheduled to begin in April 2025. The frst stage is set to open to students by late 2025, with Stage 2 following thereafter.

This initiative aligns with Australia’s growing demand for sustainable agriculture solutions and strengthens the nation’s position as an agritech leader.

For further details on the Priority Community Infrastructure Program, please visit the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts website.

Statements from Key Figures

Catherine King, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government:

future of agriculture across Australia. Our commitment to this project demonstrates our dedication to building infrastructure that benefts Australians for generations to come.”

Susan Templeman, Federal Member for Macquarie:

“This investment in WSU’s Hawkesbury campus is crucial for the future of agri-tech in New South Wales. The Hawkesbury region has long been a hub for food production and land management, and the Agri Tech Precinct will expand this legacy into the 21st century. In addition to advancing agriculture, the precinct will create hundreds of new jobs and educational opportunities for the people of Western Sydney. I’m proud to see this election commitment come to fruition and look forward to the long-term benefts it will bring.”

Julie Collins, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry:

play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration, encouraging investment, and securing the future of agricultural jobs in Australia.”

Professor George Williams AO, ViceChancellor and President of Western Sydney University:

“Western Sydney University’s Agri Tech Precinct represents a multi-million-dollar investment in the future of sustainable agriculture. This facility will leverage the university’s expertise in research and innovation, addressing global challenges in partnership with industry, government, and the community. The precinct will provide students with exceptional learning opportunities in agriculture and food production, creating career pathways and jobs that are essential for the future of Australia’s agricultural sector. Moreover, its location near Badgery’s Creek Airport will enhance opportunities for exporting high-quality produce internationally.

“Innovation is essential for boosting the productivity of Australia’s agriculture sector. The WSU Agri Tech Precinct will bring together students, researchers, and industry professionals to explore new technologies and methodologies that enhance the sector’s competitiveness.

The precinct builds on the rich agricultural heritage of our Hawkesbury campus, positioning Western Sydney as a global leader in agricultural research and innovation.”

WSU estimates that the construction phase alone will create 150 direct jobs, with an additional 240 jobs expected from the precinct’s ongoing operations, providing a substantial boost to the

“Agriculture accounts for about 13% of Australia’s export economy and occupies 55% of its land mass. The Agri Tech Precinct will ensure Australia remains at the forefront of agricultural innovation. This is a smart, long-term investment in both Western Sydney’s economy and the

Agriculture is increasingly relying on technological advances to improve resource management, monitor production, and combat pests and diseases. This precinct will

This project is set to make a lasting impact, not only by advancing agritech in Australia but also by creating job opportunities and fostering educational growth in Western Sydney.

ROBERT HEYWARD

MASS SHOPPER CONFUSION PROMPTS MAJOR AUSSIE FOOD BUSINESSES TO JOIN FORCES TO CHAMPION ‘AUSSIE OWNED’

With increasing concern for the future of Australian brands, Norco, SPC, Sanitarium Health Food Company Mayvers and Sunshine Sugar unite to discuss calls for ‘country of ownership’ labelling as hard-earned Aussie dollars are unknowingly going offshore.

Despite the cost-of-living crisis, Aussie shoppers remain as passionate as ever about supporting Australian brands and hard-working Aussie farmers. However, new research has identifed mass confusion in the marketplace with an overwhelming number of Aussie shoppers unknowingly buying foreign-owned products in their attempt to buy ‘Aussie owned’ –prompting a coalition of Aussie food businesses to join forces to educate on what constitutes Australian owned.

New research1 from Norco, Australia’s oldest and largest 100% farmer-owned dairy co-operative, has found that due to infation, Aussie households are forking out up to an extra $1.64bn in their monthly grocery shops, with many needing to change the way they shop to save money.

But despite this, close to a third (30%) of shoppers have increased their support for (what they believe to be) Australian brands and products over the past two years, with many prepared to pay more if they think the money remains in Australia or goes back to supporting hardworking Aussie farmers and their communities.

Moreover, with the avalanche of iconic Aussie brands leaving Australian shores in recent years, many Australians hold concerns over the future of Australian brands, with the pace of foreign investment cited as the reason more than two thirds (67%) of shoppers actively try to buy Australian.

Australian Made vs Australian Owned

Despite the best of intentions to support ‘Aussie owned’, the data has revealed that an overwhelming majority of Aussie shoppers (81%) are actively buying foreign

owned products - some (66%) even buying multiple foreign owned brands - believing they’re supporting Australian owned, with many simply relying on what they believe to be iconic Aussie brands, or household products they grew up with.

Adding to the confusion, more than half of Aussie shoppers (56%) simply look for the Australian made logo to inform their selection, with only one in 10 consumers doing their own research to make fully informed decisions.

Michael Hampson, Norco Chief Executive Offcer comments that the while he was pleased by how much Aussie shoppers wanted to support Australian owned, it was disappointing to see the scale of confusion among shoppers.

“What’s clear from the research, is that if we want to protect what’s left of our iconic and authentically Australian brands, there needs to be a greater conversation and further education around the difference between Australian made and Australian owned,” he says.

Under Australian Consumer Law, most foods that are produced, grown or made in Australia are required to display a label with the kangaroo triangle symbol, or some statement indicating the food was grown, produced or made in Australia - but that doesn’t mean Australian owned.

Hampson adds: “While anything that drives jobs creation and economic activity in Australia is a good thing, it’s still important to know that many foreign owned companies can still use this labelling. “The big difference with ‘authentically Australian’ brands and products - those that are both Australian made and 100% Australian owned

- is that the money remains here in Australia and is not siphoned offshore.

“This means it can then be reinvested back into Australia and regional communities which in turn creates more jobs, can better support our hardworking farmers, while helping to sustain the industries in which they operate,” he says.

Iconic Aussie Brands Unite to Discuss Country of Ownership Labelling

Reinforcing shopper confusion, two thirds (66%) of Australians claim they would buy more Australian made and owned products if the information was readily available but claim it’s hard to tell, with nearly three quarters (73%) believing ‘country of ownership’ information should be included on all food labels.

The notion has prompted the bosses of major Australian food brands – including Norco, SPC, Sanitarium, Mayvers Foods and Sunshine Sugar, to join forces to explore the concept.

Michael Hampson (Norco) believes it’s an interesting and worthwhile conversation to have.

“There is a clear desire among Aussie shoppers to support authentically Australian (Australian made and owned) brands, and as a 100% Australian farmer-owned co-operative, this is extremely heartening to see.

“But the fact remains that many household brands we all grew up with are sadly no longer Australian owned, so clearer labelling could be benefcial in helping to combat this widespread shopper confusion,” he says.

Following this, the coalition of ‘Aussie food bosses’ are urging consumers to arms themselves with knowledge and do their

own research into which companies and products remain Australian owned. As an easy frst step, they’re encouraging consumers to download the Bring Back Australia App, which is uniquely designed to support and identify Australian owned brands with a simple scan of a barcode.

Sanitarium: Todd Saunders, Executive General Manager of Sanitarium Health Food Company, which has been Australian owned since 1898, and is a trusted producer of some of Australia’s most iconic breakfast brands including Weet-bix comments:

“Like our coalition partners, we don’t want there to be any confusion for consumers about the authenticity of Sanitarium’s Aussie ownership or the quality that ensures within our product range.

“We know how intrinsically proud Australians are of the great things that come from our country.

Including ‘country of ownership’ labelling information and introducing better tools to support consumers in making an informed choice can help us continue to drive economic growth and provide job security for our employees, and the regional farmers and suppliers who help us to feed the nation.”

“By choosing the product of an Australian owned business such as Sanitarium or our coalition partners, customers are not just making a purchase, they’re making an investment in supporting local jobs and economies,” he says.

SPC: Peta Allsopp, SPC Chief Marketing Offcer – one of Australia’s most iconic food brands that’s been part of the Australian grocery basket for 112 years - comments that like their coalition counterparts, they

are proud to remain 100% Australian made and owned, but have certainly felt the impact of foreign competition in recent times.

“The current cost of living crisis is very real and consequently, consumers are making very considered valuesbased choices. At times, they are either knowingly or unknowingly choosing imported options from lower cost producing countries such as China and South Africa.

“We are immensely proud of the quality of our SPC products and more committed than ever to delivering superior value to consumers, while working closely with our grower partners to innovative and become more competitive.

“So if a small labelling update to include ‘country of ownership’ information can help better inform consumer choice, while protecting our iconic brands, industries and farmers alike, then that is something we fully support,” she says.

ADDITIONAL QUOTES FROM THE ‘AUSTRALIAN OWNED’

COALITION: Bethaney George, Chief Executive Offcer Mayver’s Foods

“With a mission to deliver high quality, 100% natural, Australian-made products, Mayver’s Foods is proud familyowned and Australian made business, operating in categories saturated by foreign owned brands and imported products.

“Cost of living pressures are being felt far and wide, impacting all parts of the supply chain, which is why we have such a steadfast commitment to local sourcing and sustainability - by turning Australian ‘wonky fruit’ (otherwise destined to become food waste) into delicious

jams, supporting Australian growers for our peanuts, almonds and local suppliers across our entire value chain.

“Our ‘local frst’ pledge is more than just a strategy; it’s our promise to support our local, Australian communities, and if enhanced labelling can help support this mission and better aid consumer choice, then that is something we fully stand behind,” she concludes Chris Connors, Sunshine Sugar Chief Executive Offcer: Sunshine Sugar is a 100% Australian sugar manufacturer, owned and operated in partnership with local sugarcane farmers.

“Sunshine Sugar is an incredibly proud brand in the Australian marketplace,” remarks Mr Connors.

“We are the only Australian owned refned sugar manufacturer, and our business model is uniquely Australian.

“As somewhat the underdog in Australian sugar manufacturing, Sunshine Sugar is grown, made and owned in New South Wales.

We aren’t as big as some of our overseas owned competitors, but have a strong customer base that highly regards our Australian roots and the consistent, reliable product quality and service we provide.

“Having our operations based in the regional communities of the NSW Northern Rivers, we see the struggle consumers face when trying to support Australian farmers and the research confrms that this struggle is occurring nation-wide.

The concept of making clear the country of ownership, along with tools to help inform consumers seems like a step in the right direction – for Australian owned businesses and our patriotic and supportive Australian consumer base.”

Safe shooting program opens

Shooting organisations across NSW can apply for up to $800,000 in funding under the NSW Government’s Safe Shooting Program.

The Program aims to improve the safety and quality of NSW shooting facilities, increase the use of existing shooting facilities, and encourage participation, while supporting the next generation of NSW Olympians.

By delivering capital upgrades to ensure modern facilities are ft-for-purpose, the Safe Shooting program aims to increase

participation in shooting by removing barriers for women and girls, people with disability, First Nations peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and LGBTQIA+ people.

Grants of $10,000$50,000 are available to shooting clubs, shooting ranges and shooting organisations for improvements to storage, security and safety, as well as new equipment such as electronic targets.

The program also supports projects which incorporate inclusive

design, improved safety, environmental sustainability and climate resiliency.

The Program closes 1pm, 23 October 2024. For further information and to apply for a grant visit the QR code below.

Minister for Sport

Steve Kamper said:

“Shooting in NSW has an esteemed history of producing Olympic and world champions, including Michael Diamond and Suzie Balogh.

“The Sydney 2000 Olympic legacy lives on

at Sydney International Shooting Centre in Western Sydney and participation is high in regional NSW.

“As we head towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, this program will ensure NSW shooter’s ongoing success on the world and Olympic stage.”

Nambucca River oyster leases upgraded

For the frst time since 1983, Nambucca River oyster growers can harvest and directly sell their shellfsh after the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) rezoned sections of the river.

NSW DPIRD Shellfsh Program manager, Anthony Zammit, said two out of three Nambucca River harvest zones now have direct harvest approval.

“This means locally grown shellfsh can be sold directly from the waterway,” Mr Zammit said.

“We’ve worked with industry to deliver this positive outcome, which gives Nambucca region oyster farmers the confdence to bring their shellfsh to market.

“Growers are now providing quality local seafood for the community to enjoy,

as the NSW oyster industry continue to deliver valuable results to the economy, regional employment and tourism.”

The rezoning of leases along the Nambucca River was achieved thanks to a year-long project to improve water quality, led by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

NSW EPA Executive Director of Operations, Jason Gordon, said the EPA had ramped up its work with Nambucca Valley Council over the

past fve years to prevent sewage overfows impacting the river.

“Since 2019, we have placed seven pollution reduction programs on the local sewage plant’s Environment Protection Licence, requiring a range of upgrades to improve infrastructure, prevent overfows and enhance their response to pollution incidents,” Mr Gordon said.

“We held regular meetings with the council and the local oyster industry to hear and address their

concerns and helped with the cost of monthly water monitoring within the catchment.

“This is a great example of collaboration across government, and we thank oyster growers, Nambucca Valley Council, DPIRD, the NSW Food Authority and the Department of Climate Change, Energy Environment and Water for working together to fnd a solution for a local problem.”

The NSW Food Authority operates the NSW Shellfsh Program in partnership with the NSW oyster industry to ensure the safety of shellfsh harvested from NSW waters.

The NSW EPA is continuing to work closely with local oyster growers and the council to monitor and improve water quality in the region.

In Memorian

Lance Skimmings

2-10-2023

The World changes from year to year, Our Lives from Day to Day, But the Love and Memory of you shall never pass away, You will all ways be in my Heart filled with memories, I miss you every day.

Your loving wife Judy

Funeral Notice

Passed away peacefully 24th September 2024, Late of Ballina.

Loving husband of Marie (Dec’d). Loving partner of Bridgit. Cherished father and father in law of Kim & Martin, David & Ann. Devoted “Poppy” of Etienne, Luc, Solene and India. Will be sadly missed by all his relatives and friends.

Aged 94 Years

“A man who never drinks, is always well”

e relatives and friends of Jack are invited to attend his funeral service to be held at e Richmond Chapel of Parkview Funeral Home, 21 Kalinga St Ballina On Wednesday 9th October 2024, commencing at 10.00am. At the conclusion of the chapel ceremony,

TREVAN, Jack Harrison

WEATHER

FORECAST

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the south. Medium chance of showers. Light winds becoming south to southeasterly 20 to 30 km/h during the morning. Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning. Winds southerly 15 to 20 km/h tending southeasterly during the morning then becoming light during the afternoon.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the south. Medium chance of showers on and east of the ranges, most likely in the afternoon and evening. Winds east to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower on and east of the ranges. Winds east to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h becoming light during the afternoon.

New South Wales:

Isolated to scattered showers along the central and northern ranges and coastline. Dry and mostly sunny west of the divide. Daytime temperatures below average, most notably about the east. East to southeasterly winds, fresh along the coast. Thursday. Isolated showers about the northeast, and far southern inland. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere. Daytime temperatures below average about the northern and central ranges, slopes and coast grading to slightly above average in the western inland. Southeasterly about the coast, tending easterly along the ranges and north to northeasterly about the west. Winds fresh and gusty about the western inland.

Byron Coast: Winds: South to southeasterly 20 to 30 knots. Seas: 1.5 to 2.5 metres. Swell: South to southeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres inshore, increasing to 1.5 to 2 metres offshore north of Cape Byron. Weather: Partly cloudy. 50% chance of showers. Coffs Coast: Winds: Southerly 15 to 20 knots turning southeasterly 15 to 25 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, increasing to 1.5 to 2 metres during the afternoon. 1st Swell: Southerly 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to around 1 metre during the morning. 2nd Swell: Easterly below 1 metre, tending southeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres during the morning. Weather: Partly cloudy. 50% chance of showers.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Southeasterly 20 to 30 knots. Seas: 1.5 to 2.5 metres. Swell: Southeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres inshore, increasing to 1.5 to 2 metres offshore. Weather: Partly cloudy.

The highly anticipated Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle NSW North regional qualifer is set to take place this Saturday in Coffs Harbour. Ten of the region’s top boardrider clubs will compete for a coveted spot in the national fnal, scheduled for early next year at Burleigh Heads, Queensland.

Corey Ross, Contest Director for Surfng NSW, expressed excitement about the event, stating: “We are looking forward to heading up to Coffs for the frst stop of the NSW ABB series qualifers. Conditions for the

BALLINA MAHJONG

RESULTS – 27TH

SEPTEMBER 2024

1st: Ronda Taylor

2nd: Lorna Simpson

3rd: Sally Lowry

4th: Jeanette Henwood

5th: Vanessa Reynolds

6th: Shirley Atkinson

7th: Gail McDonagh

8th: Jan Small

9th: Lisa Wong

10th: Ramsay Roper

11th: Wendy Thornton

12th: Linda Lloyd

13th: Pauline Bolte

14th: Joy Lowien

15th: Pauline Kearney

16th: Jane Fenech

17th: Susan Scott

18th: Val Heinritz

19th: Cindy Smith

20th: Barbara Ellan

21st: Coral Lavelle

21st: Jan Henley (tied)

weekend are looking a little tricky, with a big south swell and plenty of rain predicted, but that won’t dampen the spirits of these clubs. Coffs provides us with plenty of options, so no matter the conditions, it’s going to be a great day of surfng and club spirit!”

COMPETING CLUBS

The ten competing clubs include:

• Woolgoolga

• Le-Ba (Lennox/ Ballina)

• Byron Bay

• Black Rocks

• Port Macquarie

• Kingscliff

• Boomerang

• Cabarita

• Angourie

• Saltwater

Among them, Le-Ba

Games are held every Friday at 12:30 PM at the Ballina Bridge Club on North Creek Road. For new player enquiries, please contact Shirley at 0423 384 647.

CASINO SOCIAL GOLF RESULTS – 29TH

SEPTEMBER 2024

No social golf was played on Sunday due to the course closure. However, next Sunday’s event, sponsored by Just Brakes and Exhaust Casino, will feature a Single Stroke competition on the top 11 holes for the Monthly Medal. Visitors are welcome to join, with tee-off times between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM.

Please remember that

is keen to regain their title after their threeyear winning streak was interrupted last year by Coffs Harbour Boardriders, who claimed victory on their home turf.

Event Location and Conditions

The main competition will take place at Macauleys Beach, with alternative locations at Park Beach, Gallows, and Diggers Beach, depending on the conditions. Competitors and spectators are encouraged to monitor Surfng Australia and Surfng NSW social media platforms for the confrmed location and running order, which will be announced on the morning of the event.

daylight saving begins!

CASINO WOMEN’S BOWLS RESULTS –WEDNESDAY, 25TH

SEPTEMBER 2024

Two rinks of social bowls were played, with the following results: In a closely contested match, Denise Grice, Ivy Watson, and Kaye Jonsson defeated Judy Carthew, Jan Cooke, and Mary Mead. On the other rink, Jan Dwyer, Maria Hellyar, and Annette James claimed victory over Tanya Maxwell, Denise Skinner, and Helen Lavelle.

Congratulations to all participants!

CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB –

Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Series 12 Schedule

• Event 1 – ABB WA –14th Sept – Trigg Beach, WA

• Event 2 – ABB NSW

North – 28th Sept –Coffs Harbour, NSW

• Event 3 – ABB VIC –6th Oct – Phillip Island, VIC

• Event 4 – ABB QLD

– 12th Oct – Sunshine Coast, QLD

• Event 5 – ABB

South Aus – 19th Oct –Fleurieu Peninsula, SA

• Event 6 – ABB

Tas – 26th Oct – Clifton Beach, TAS

• Event 7 – ABB NSW

South – 2nd Nov –Wollongong, NSW

• Event 8 – ABB NSW

Central – 9th Nov –North Narrabeen, NSW

SPORTS RESULTS

Tournaments: Gold Coast Tweed

Region Ricochet Singles

• Division 1:

1st: D. Luxmore

2nd: K. Grant

3rd: R. Chapman

4th: R. Smillie

• Division 2:

1st: M. Campbell

2nd: G. Clarke

3rd: G. Porter

4th: L. Parker

NSW Association Open Singles Championships

• Division 1:

1st: S. Pearce

2nd: C. Hyland

3rd: S. Richards

4th: K.A. Organ

• Plate Division:

1st: R. Elliott

2nd: M. Hughes

3rd: P. Skvorc

• Grand Final – 8th-9th March –Burleigh Heads, QLD (qualifcation only)

About the Australian Boardriders Clubs

Australia is home to more than 230 boardrider clubs, where members come together regularly to organize grassroots competitions. These clubs have been instrumental in building Australia’s global success in competitive surfng, fostering tight-knit communities that support the next generation of surfng champions.

Last year, Surfng Australia expanded the Grand Final format to include 42 clubs (up from 24 previously), with over $115,000 in

4th: T. Woolford Smith

Upcoming Event:

Croquet for Kids –Tuesday, 8th October, starting at 12 PM.

All are welcome!

For more information, contact Robyn Poynting at 0414 700 512.

CORAKI VETERANS GOLF RESULTS –THURSDAY, 26TH

SEPTEMBER 2024

The winner of the Single Stableford competition was S. O’Connor, with S. McDonough fnishing in second place and A. Ganter in third. The free game went to S. Ormond. Chicken/Ball winners included: K. Dreyer, J. Larkin, S. McDonald, E. Reddell,

prize money on offer throughout the series.

Series Support

The Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Series is supported by naming partner Hyundai, along with Jim Beam, ACCIONA, Ruffe Rustic Foods, BC™ Protein Snacks, Kennards Hire, Oakley, Dometic, Boost Mobile, Blackroll, and Surfers for Climate. The Gold Coast Grand Final is supported by Experience Gold Coast and the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland. For further information, visit australianboard ridersbattle.com.

J. Voght, J. Gibson, B. Clark, S. Toms, M. Bruggy, Welch, S. Reddell, and T. McBurney.

Nearest the Pins:

3rd/15th: G. Brown

6th/15th: G. Brown

A reminder that this Thursday will feature the Monthly Medal for October, with a start time of 8:30 AM. The following Thursday, 10th October 2024, will be the Annual General Meeting of the Vets Club. Members interested in joining the board are encouraged to nominate on the provided sheet.

Until then, happy golfng!

ROBERT HEYWARD

Surfng Australia is excited to announce its roster for Team Irukandjis Masters, which will compete in the upcoming 2024 ISA World Masters Surfng Championship (WMSC). After a ten-year hiatus, the prestigious event is making a comeback in Surf City El Salvador at the renowned El Sunzal point break, less than a month away. This edition promises to live up to its legacy, showcasing the world’s best master surfers across three age divisions: 40-49, 50-59, and 60+.

A Return to the Masters Stage

The WMSC, last held

Surfng Australia is excited to announce that the 61st Australian Surfng Awards incorporating the Hall of Fame will be held on December 7, 2024, at HOTA, Home of the Arts, on the Gold Coast. This prestigious event, one of the longest-standing celebrations of Australian surfng talent, is moving to HOTA, an iconic cultural venue known for hosting unforgettable events.

The Australian Surfng Awards celebrate the achievements of the nation’s top surfers and honour those who contribute behind the scenes in various areas like media, photography, event organisation, and business. This year, new awards such as Shaper of the Year will be introduced, adding fresh excitement to the event.

Surfng Australia CEO Chris Mater shared his enthusiasm for the new venue and changes:

“The Australian Surfng Awards have always been

in 2013, has a storied history, having taken place in iconic surfng locations such as Nicaragua and Puerto Rico. The 2024 edition will highlight Surf City El Salvador’s world-class waves, with many eager to witness the return of elite surfng in this competitive format.

Luke Madden, Surfng Australia’s Chief of Sport, expressed his excitement, crediting the country’s deep surfng talent to its strong boardrider community. He emphasized how events like the Hyundai High Performance Centre Australian Surf Championships have

prepared Australia’s masters surfers to compete internationally.

ISA President

Fernando Aguerre also shared his enthusiasm:

“I’m thrilled to see the world’s best over-40 surfers competing again. Sunzal’s amazing waves will provide a ftting stage for this event, which has always been a true celebration of surfng.”

Meet Team Irukandjis Masters

Shane Conwell (Whale Beach, NSW) – Male Division 40-49

Conwell, a 23-year surf coach and former Australian champion, feels “honoured and

a special celebration of our sport’s rich history and incredible talent.

Hosting the event at HOTA this year, we’re adding new awards and bringing it forward to align with the festive summer season, ensuring we celebrate within the same calendar year. We look forward to honouring both our elite surfers and those working tirelessly to elevate Australian surfng.”

Luke Egan to Be Inducted into the Australian Surfng Hall of Fame

Luke Egan, one of Australia’s most celebrated surfers,

will be inducted into the Australian Surfng Hall of Fame during the event. Egan, whose career on the ASP/ World Surf League World Championship Tour spanned 22 years, claimed four world tour event wins and was runner-up in the world title race in 2000. He joins a prestigious list of past inductees, including Chelsea Hedges, Joel Parkinson, Stephanie Gilmore, Mick Fanning, and others.

Refecting on the honour, Egan said: “It is a great honour to be inducted into the Australian Surfng Hall

overwhelmed” to represent Australia. His experience and passion will drive him to excel in El Salvador.

Scott Schindler (Sawtell, NSW) – Male Division 50-59 Schindler is ready for redemption after his previous experience at the WMSC. Having returned to surfng in his Masters years, he is eager to claim victory for Australia.

Rod Baldwin (Copacabana, NSW) –Male Division 60+ Baldwin, a four-time WMSC competitor, has won multiple individual and team golds. This is a special chance for him

of Fame in 2024. I am completely humbled! To be named alongside my heroes and greats of Australian surfng is a dream. It’s defnitely a highlight of my career representing Australia on the international stage.” 2024 Australian Surfng Awards Categories

The 2024 awards will feature the following categories: High-Performance Awards:

• Female Surfer of the Year

• Male Surfer of the Year

• Mick Fanning Male Rising Star Award (U18)

• Stephanie Gilmore Female Rising Star Award (U18)

• Female Para

Surfer of the Year

• Male Para Surfer of the Year

• Heavy Water Award

• Shaper of the Year (new)

• Coach of the Year Award

Media Awards:

to compete again after missing the 2011 edition due to personal reasons.

Serena Brooke (Noosa Heads, QLD) – Female Division 40-49

Brooke, a World Championship Tour veteran and former runner-up for the world title, is competing in her frst ISA event. She is eager for the warm waves of El Salvador.

Kim Wooldridge (Austinmer, NSW) –Female Division 50-59

Wooldridge, a long-time competitor, is making her return to representing Australia. Her deep experience in WQS and WCT events makes her a formidable contender.

• Australian Surf Photo of the Year presented by Tracks

• Surf Clip of the Year - Surfer & Filmer Award (under 45 sec)

• Surf Film of the Year - Filmer Award Participation & Community Awards:

• Peter Troy Lifetime Achievement Award

• Simon Anderson Club Award presented by Jim Beam

• Surf School of the Year Award

• Greater Good Award

• Breakthrough Surf Brand of the Year

• Indigenous Surfng Community Celebration Award

• Sustainability Award (new)

Australian Surfng Hall of Fame Inductee

Nominations and Event Details

Nominations for the 2024 Australian Surfng Awards are now open and will close on October 31, 2024. The awards are open to Australian

Sandra English (Budgewoi, NSW) –Female Division 60+

A 16-time Australian titleholder, English is excited to once again represent Australia. Her rich history in the WMSC and passion for the sport make her a key member of the team.

The ISA World Masters Surfng Championship is set to be a thrilling event, uniting top masters surfers from across the globe. With Australia felding such a strong and experienced team, the 2024 championship promises to be an exciting celebration of surfng talent and camaraderie.

citizens and recognize achievements made between January 1, 2024, and October 31, 2024. This year’s event is proudly supported by sponsors including ACCIONA, Jim Beam, Tracks, Surfers for Climate, the Australian Institute of Sport, the Queensland Academy of Sport, Zuum Energy Gum, Hyundai She’s Electric, the Hyundai High Performance Centre (HPC), and Surfng Australia High Performance Program. For more information or to submit nominations, visit Surfng Australia’s website.

Scan the QR Code to nominate, nominations close on October 31, 2024

L-R Sandra English in action. Credit: Jason Ascott - Kim Wooldridge in action. Credit: Iñigo Grasset - Serena Brooke in action. Credit: @swillpics Simon Williams - Scott Schindler in action. Credit: Surfng Australia - Rod Baldwin in action. Credit: Bosko - Shane Conwell in action. Credit: Surfng Australia

Luke Egan will be inducted into the Australian Surfng Hall of Fame. Credit: Andrew Shield

The Cudgen Hornets RLFC, from Kingscliff in northern New South Wales, has been announced as the winner of the 2024 VB Big Leg Up.

The Big Leg Up is a new initiative championed by Victoria Bitter and the NRL to reward hard work at the grassroots level by supporting a registered amateur Rugby League club doing it tough. For the Cudgen Hornets the past few years have been

a testament to resilience. Their clubhouse and changerooms were destroyed by fre in 2020 and the club has struggled to get back on its feet ever since. Instead, having to rely on makeshift tents and nearby soccer changerooms to help feld a team each week. Rebuilding efforts have been slow due to limited resources and player numbers are down due to the lack of facilities.

Despite these

The Lower Clarence Tennis Association held its annual club championships last week at the Ryan Park courts in Maclean, showcasing an exciting array of talent and sportsmanship under perfect weather conditions.

The Junior Club

Championships attracted around 20 enthusiastic young competitors across various events.

Miles Seeto emerged victorious in the Junior Singles, with Oliver Ward putting up a commendable fght as the runner-up. In the fercely

challenges, the Hornets have shown extraordinary determination, with the senior team and reserves both winning premierships in 2023. Thanks to Victoria Bitter’s backing the club has been awarded $50,000 to help rebuild its badly needed facilities. In addition, VB will support the club through fundraising efforts and raise its profle by sharing their story across social

media.

Volunteer Phill King at The Hornets said: “We still don’t have proper dressing rooms, we’re using tents, and our club house is dilapidated. The bills just keep piling up ... our treasurer gets anxious every time a payment is due but this will go a long way in keeping us surviving.”

Ben Eyles, Carlton & United Breweries Head of Beer Marketing, praised the club’s remarkable perseverance:

contested Open Men’s Singles, last year’s champion Ashley Seeto defended his title against a strong feld, with several matches culminating in thrilling tie-breaks. Jeremy Miller took home the runner-up position in this competitive category.

The Men’s B Grade Singles saw Dave Johnson claim the top prize, adding to his impressive performance throughout the tournament. In the Open Men’s Doubles, the winning pair of Dave Johnson and

“The Cudgen Hornets’ story epitomises the hard work and resilience the Big Leg Up values. Their journey over the past few years has been inspiring. We are thrilled to support them as they continue to be a vital part of their community and an amazing example of how inspiring grassroots Rugby League can be.”

This year’s Big Leg Up competition saw around 50 clubs from across the East Coast share their tales of overcoming natural disasters, celebrating volunteers

and fostering impressive club growth.

Bryan Fletcher, former NRL star and Fox League host, made the announcement on the day sharing the exciting news with the Hornets: “The volunteers at the Hornets are some of the most passionate people you’ll ever meet. It’s clear how much this club means to them and how impactful this funding will be. We’re eager to see the transformation unfold and give back to a club that has given so much to its community.”

Dane Lentfer displayed exceptional teamwork, with Nathan Hayman and Robbie Purcell fnishing as runners-up.

The Lower Clarence Tennis Association extends heartfelt gratitude to its sponsor, the Maclean Bowling Club, and appreciates

the generous support from local businesses like Sunshine Sugar, The Maclean Hotel, and the Yamba ShoresTavern for providing championship prizes. Additionally, junior prizes were kindly supplied by Penny’s Sweet Tooth.

Bryan Fletcher and Cudgen Hornets volunteer Phil King

Ash Seeto, winner of the Open Mens Singles receives his prize from Ross McCann, club president

Jeremy Miller was the runner-up

Open Mens Doubles Winners Open Mens Doubles Winners Dave Johnson and Dane Lentfer. Dave Johnson was also the Mens B grade singles winner