The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 224

New mayor and old butt heads minutes after vote

TIM HOWARD

Clarence Valley Council has voted down a bid to give it a voice in a State Government planning body that will determine whether a controversial $80 million development goes ahead in Yamba.

At the council’s frst meeting last week, newly elected Mayor Ray Smith brought a mayoral minute to the council urgently seeking to delay this week’s meeting of the Northern Regional Planning Panel.

The panel, which would normally include at least two Clarence Valley councillors, was convened to meet today to decide on the Clifton 216 dwelling manufactured home estate development at 110 to 120 Carrs Dr, Yamba.

But due to the proximity of the dates of the election and the panel meeting it has not been possible for the council to appoint two members to the panel inside the 14 day deadline set for panel selection.

Cr Smith’s minute asked that council as a matter for urgency write to NSW Planning Minister Paul Scully seeking his help in deferring the meeting and include panel chair Diane Leeson in the email chain to alert her to the council’s wishes.

He also asked that council appoint up to four representatives onto the panel to be ready if deferral was allowed.

Cr Smith told the meeting he had been approached by members of the public alarmed that such an important decision could be made without input from the council.

“I think we need to be seen by the community to be at least trying to have our democratic right exercised. It may well be that the panel refuses and they determine the DA in the absence of council representation, so be it,” he said.

“But I think at least we need to try to have representation on that panel.”

But the idea drew fre from longer serving councillors, who voted in July, during the previous term of council, to inform the NRPP that councillors opposed the development, as did the staff in its submission.

Not only did these councillors take issue with the idea of attempting to delay the panel meeting, they also used the debate to test the new mayor’s ability to chair a meeting.

A number of times the former Mayor, Cr Johnstone, pointed out procedural issues to his successor.

“Okay? I understand.

Cr Johnstone, you’re testing me,” Cr Smith said when the former mayor questioned an aspect of the meeting’s conduct.

“Point of order, Mr Mayor, I’m wanting us to follow the procedure,”

Cr Johnstone replied.

Cr Johnstone was also unhappy Cr Smith had not consulted him, as a former NRPP member, about the matter.

He received support for his stance on the prospect of the DA from general manager Laura Black, who suggested it might be a tactically bad decision to delay the panel meeting as it could allow the developer more time to meet conditions for approval.

He asked if staff could see any advantages in delaying the meeting.

She said staff could see none.

The development’s determination has an added layer of complexity as it is also before the Land and Environment Court in an ongoing hearing that could determine the matter outside the planning procedures.

Clifton took the matter to the court because of a “deemed refusal” of the development when the council did not meet deadlines in supplying information to the planning panel.

As the debate continued it became more feral with the mayor called to make rulings on continual points of order.

Cr Toms was scathing of the mayoral minute, describing it as a “slam dunk, frst meeting”.

She said because the minute had little chance of success and risked alienating the planning minister she could not support it.

Others were concerned there could be a conspiracy involving the community group the Yamba Community Action Network, which has also sought aid from Mr Scully to defer the NRPP meeting.

The election of Yamba CAN’s former secretary Cr Lynne Cairns to this term of council seems to have alarmed some councillors, who were concerned she was exercising undue infuence.

Cr Debrah Novak question the mayor about the authorship of the mayoral minute, asking if Cr Cairns was involved.

Cr Smith said Cr Cairns and others had provided information, but the writing of the minute was his own work.

Cr Alison Whaites said because of the similarity between the Yamba CAN proposal and Cr Smith’s minute she could not support it.

Cr Novak went further and suggested Cr Cairns had a confict of interest which would make the minute unlawful.

Cr Greg Clancy raised a point of order pointing out that councillors could not accuse each of conficts of interest.

The mayor ruled against it, saying there could not be a confict where the matter was a recommendation.

“We’re not discussing who’s going to be on the panel when it comes to that discussion, if there’s a confict of interest that should be declared,” he said.

Cr Toms succeeded in an amendment that stripped point 4 of the minute, the appointment of panel representatives, from the motion.

She argued if the minute was successful, this could be done at the council’s October 22 meeting.

In the midst of the attacks, Cr Smith

received support from a number of councillors, new and experienced.

Cr Yager supported the mayor and said it was important for the council to represent the wishes of the community.

She could not see the harm in asking for Mr Scully’s ruling on the planning panel deferment.

“What is the harm if we can’t, if we can’t, as councillors, write a letter,” she said.

“If it’s such a big deal, then I just fnd it a bit a bit silly that this has become such a big issue.

“If it is simply writing a letter that’s going to be refused anyway, we should be in this room doing what the community has asked us to, and that is, represent them.”

Cr Clancy said the new councillor “took the words out of my mouth”.

“We have to raise issues, and this is what we’re doing with this motion” he said.

“If the minister will not intervene if it means an outcome which is not in the community interest. So if the minister was to intervene, I’m sure he would take that very carefully.

“So I think there’s no harm in representing the community.”

When it came to a vote, councillors rejected the mayor’s view 5-4 with Crs Johnstone, Whaites, Novak, Toms and Shane Causley opposed.

Newly elected Clarence Valley Mayor Ray Smith was subjected to a blizzard of points of order, many questioning procedural matters in the frst council meeting, which included the mayoral vote.

Cr Peter Johnstone repeatedly question procedural matters during debate of a mayoral minute brought to the frst council meeting last Thursday.

Australian music legend Kevin Borich performing in Yamba November 9.

Renowned Australian guitarist Kevin Borich is back on tour, bringing his signature blend of funk-infused rock and blues to stages across the country. With over 52 years of experience and an impressive list of collaborations that includes legends such as Santana, Bo Diddley, Richie Blackmore (Deep Purple), Ron Wood (Rolling Stones), and more, Borich remains one of Australia’s most celebrated guitarists.

Throughout his career, Borich has shared the stage with an array of musical icons, including John Mayall, Taj Mahal, Living Colour, Joe Walsh (Eagles), Canned Heat, Elton John, Status Quo, Jeff Beck, Buddy Guy, Peter Frampton, and AC/ DC. His rich musical journey has solidifed his status as a true force in the industry.

Borich will be joined on tour by two Aussie rock veterans: Jon Carson on drums and Chris Gilbert on bass, delivering a dynamic

and powerful live performance.

This tour follows the success of Kevin’s latest album, Duets, which garnered rave reviews and quickly topped the ARIA Rock, Blues, and Jazz Charts. The album features collaborations with 12 notable musicians, blending an array of genres and styles into a cohesive and electrifying record.

Kevin Borich Express will be rocking the stage at Yamba Bowlo Sports & Leisure Club on November 9th, 2024. Get ready to dust off your dancing shoes and gather your friends for an unforgettable night of live music!

Scan the QR Code or contact the club to book your evening with a true Aussie music icon.

New shop and units for Evans Head

of Evans Head,” a NDC spokesperson announced on LinkedIn.

A new shop top housing project has been announced by surveying and engineering frm, Newton Denny Chapelle, which will be located at the corner of McDonald Place and Elm Street, Evans Head. The development will provide a street level café and 10 units over two levels.

“The proposed building is in a visually prominent location and will help to defne the future character

“The building form draws architectural references from prominent art-deco buildings within the town centre such as the Illawong Hotel.

“The mix of building materials including brick and concrete, offset by lightweight materials, provides a neutral and natural material palette in harmony with the proposal’s coastal setting, its sub-tropical climate, and the existing

streetscape.”

“The site’s proximity to existing amenity and infrastructure makes it ideally suited to medium density and accessible housing supply.”

The spokesperson said a mix of unit sizes will increase medium density housing supply and diversity within proximity of the Evans Head town centre and the Evans River foreshore area.

Local architect, Luke Barker of Barker Architects worked on the new development.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

JEFF GIBBS

TIM HOWARD

Clarence Valley Council is making a habit of cutting the honeymoon periods for new mayors into matters of minutes.

Last week the council voted former Grafton City Council general manager Ray Smith as its third mayor in as many terms.

While Cr Smiths frst meeting was not as fery as that of his predecessor Cr Peter Johnstone last September, it certainly put the new mayor on notice that some of his fellow councillors were scrutinising his performance.

Cr Smith said while his frst meeting was a “a baptism of fre” it lacked the heat of Cr Johnstone’s frst meeting as mayor in September last year when council approved more than $30 million funding for the Grafton Regional Pool project in front of a packed placard wielding gallery.

Instead the new mayor’s frst mayoral minute was voted down and he was asked to adjudicate on a profusion of points of order as it appeared more experienced councillors sought to test the new mayor’s procedural knowledge.

Councillors voted for a show of hands to decide the mayor and deputy mayor position.

Cr Smith had to beat incumbent mayor Peter

No honeymoon for new mayor Ray Smith

Johnstone and third-term councillor Debrah Novak for the top job. The three candidates were given fve minutes to make their pitches.

Cr Smith drew frst spot and laid out his credentials as a 30-year local government veteran, leading three councils as a general manager.

He said he had gained experience lobbying for local government issues at State and Federal level and has also been in executive positions on bodies such as the NSW Country Mayors Association and Local Government Professionals.

He outlined his vision for the Clarence Valley as a community of opportunity and his role as mayor to harness the enthusiasm of new councillors and the knowledge of re-elected one into a team that would fulfl that vision.

Cr Novak spoke next and called on the council to support the voters who installed fve female councillors this term.

“This is a signifcant milestone, as our 185 years of local government history tells us, women are rarely elected to this offce,” she said.

“In actual fact, only about 20 women have been elected, and over these only two have been ever elected mayor in 185 years. I’ll let that sink in.”

She urged councillors to “strike while they iron was hot” and elect her as mayor.

She invoked two iconic feminist fgures: Hypatia of Alexandria, the 4th Century philosopher and mathematician and US jurist, Ruth Bader Ginsberg.

She invoked Hypatia’s call to action to “always reserve your right to think as it is better think wrongly than not think at all”.

“I know a number of you had the side hustle by local power brokers to infuence your decision on the mayoral vote today, but please give

this vote a great deal of thought as your actions, not theirs, have a legacy that will have a profound effect and impact for the women of our Valley going forward,” she said.

“My second request is this, and it comes from another infuential woman of her times, someone I deeply admire and respect, former US Chief Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

“Her call to action in her time and her era is this I ask no favours of my sex. All I ask of you, our brethren, is that you take your feet off our necks.”

Cr Johnstone made no

secret of his ambition for the top job.

“I really want this, and I might get a bit emotional too,” he said. “Sorry about that, but I really do want this.”

He appealed to councillors to acknowledge he was the most electorally popular of the mayoral candidates.

“I was touched that the people doubled my vote from last time, and I was only one of two candidates that achieved quota, that meant a lot to me,” he said.

“Please, councillors, can I ask? Can we let bygones be bygones?

And can you give the voters the leader they voted for?”

Councillors were not swayed by either Cr Johnstone or Cr Novak’s appeals.

Cr Johnstone fell at the frst hurdle, when Cr Smith secured fve votes and he and Cr Novak equally shared the remaining four.

He was excluded in the draw to decide which candidate would proceed to the second ballot.

The second vote predictably went 5-4 to Cr Smith.

The vote was: Cr Smith, Cr Clancy, Cr Cairns, Cr Causley and Cr Yager for Cr Smith. Cr Debrah Cr Novak, Cr Johnstone, Cr Toms and Cr Whaites for Cr Novak.

The vote for deputy installed the Greens Cr Clancy as deputy mayor. He beat the most electorally popular councillor, Cr Yager, and last councillor elected, Cr Karen Toms for the position.

The vote re-installed Cr Clancy as deputy, a position he won at the start of the last term of council in 2022, but relinquished in September 2023.

Cr Yager secured just one vote in the frst ballot and was excluded.

The voting in the second ballot was identical to the mayoral vote.

The Clarence Valley’s new leadership team, Mayor Ray Smith, left and his deputy Greg Clancy were elected at a fery council frst council meeting last week.

A seemingly innocuous piece of housekeeping soaked up a surprising amount of debate time at the Clarence Valley Council’s frst meeting.

A debate on what to do with the council’s Code of Meeting Practices, a document which decides the times, places and conduct of council meetings, suddenly became contentious, when Cr Lynne Cairns moved to defer it so councillors could workshop new times and meeting days as well as tidy up some minor technicalities.

Suddenly there was a furry of questions directed at Cr Cairns.

Cr Karen Toms wondered why the new councillor wanted to “change our code of meeting practice”?

Cr Peter Johnstone was concerned if the deferral

Council to move meeting day and time

was allowed the council would descend into anarchy with no code to guide it.

General manager Laura Black and Cr Cairns assured him the current code would remain in place until changes were ratifed.

Cr Alison Whaites sought a reason for the

deferral when she said it was quite feasible to decide issues of times and days for meetings at this meeting.

And Cr Debrah Novak sought and received a rule from the general manager revealing the Code of Meeting Practice needed to be reviewed within 12 months of a

Danielle Mulholland

Danielle Mulholland has been re-elected as Mayor of Kyogle Council, having previously served in the role from 2013 to 2021.

Mulholland was the

council’s election.

Councillors voted down Cr Cairns deferment motion, but agreed to a workshop to discuss the code further.

The councillors voted, from November’s meeting to meet on the third Thursday of each month at 11.30am. Councillors would hear

deputations during the morning before the meeting.

The council also voted to remove Section 3.2 from the code and update Section 8.1

But they also agreed to having a workshop in the coming weeks dedicated to looking at further changes of the code.

Other items on the meeting agenda went through more easily.

A proposal to use a countback of the September 14 election results to fll councillor vacancies should they arise was passed unanimously.

The appointment of Cr Johnstone to the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee, which provides independent advice on Council’s risk management, governance, internal audit, organisational performance and compliance responsibilities, was also passed unanimously.

The council also appointed governance risk assessment professional Melissa Jacobs and chartered accounts Rochelle Davis to the ARIC panel.

The payment of fees and superannuation to councillors agreed on for the 2024/25 year

Re-Elected as Kyogle Mayor, John Burley Named Deputy Mayor

sole nominee and was automatically declared mayor during the Kyogle Council meeting on Monday, October 14.

Kyogle Council has faced a period of turbulence in recent years, and

there is optimism that Mulholland’s return to leadership will bring stability. A progressive fgure, Mulholland expressed her gratitude, stating:

“I am very honoured and very privileged.”

After being elected, she moved from her seat among the councillors to chair the remainder of the meeting.

This leadership election followed a recent referendum where a proposal to allow ratepayers to directly elect their mayor was defeated, leaving the decision to the council members.

In a similar process, John Burley was elected deputy mayor, also running unopposed. He

will serve in the position for the next two years. Throughout the meeting, council members addressed Mulholland with the formal title “Madam Mayor,” as is customary in council meetings.

Cr Lynne Cairns motion to take a harder look at the council’s Code of Meeting Practice generated a surprising amount of debate.

IAN ROGERS

TIM HOWARD

Award-Winning Music Star Sara Storer to Headline Casino Country Music Muster 2025

The Casino Country Music Muster is thrilled to announce that ARIA and multiple Golden Guitar award winner Sara Storer will headline the highly anticipated 2025 event. Running from Monday, April 28 to Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the Casino Showground, this year’s muster promises to be an unforgettable experience for country music lovers of all ages.

Known for her heartfelt storytelling and authentic country sound, Sara Storer is one of Australia’s most celebrated country music artists. Her down-to-earth lyrics, captivating voice, and deep connection to rural

life have won her legions of fans nationwide. With iconic hits like Beautiful Circle, Raining on the Plains, and Buffalo

Bill, Storer continues to inspire audiences with her music that celebrates the Australian way of life.

Storer’s performance is expected to be the highlight of the 2025 muster, where she will join a stellar lineup of both local and national talent, including Danny Phegan, Dave Robinson, Jim and Dan Wark, Drew Blundell, Brian Stitt, Shelley Jones Band, Phil Levy and Steve Gilbert, Chris Aronsten, Steve Sparrow, Darrel Maher, Teak Fairfull, Sandra Humphrys, Lindsay Waddingon, and Kross Cut Band (Avon Kilcullen and Des

Maher).

Event Coordinator Sandra Humphrys expressed the committee’s excitement in having Sara Storer headline the 2025 Casino

Country Music Muster:

“Sara’s unique blend of country, folk, and storytelling will perfectly complement the laid-back, community atmosphere of the

muster. Her music resonates deeply with our audience, and we know she will deliver a powerful and moving performance, making next year’s muster truly special.”

Proudly supported by Richmond Valley Council, the 2025 Casino Country Music Muster will not only feature world-class performances but also a range of family-friendly activities, including local food stalls, artisan markets, and camping options, allowing attendees to fully immerse themselves in the event.

Booking inquiries can be directed to info@casinocountrymusicmuster. com.au.

Ticket Information:

• Campers: $130 per person for the entire muster, plus online booking fee.

• Day Passes: $40 per person, plus online booking fee. Kids aged 14 and under are free (must be accompanied by an adult).

• Walk-Up Competitors and Spectators (Tues-WedThurs): $10 per person, per day (at-gate sales only).

Additional Information:

• Limited powered sites are available for the use of medical devices at an additional $10 per day.

• Pet-friendly sites are also available in limited numbers. After purchasing tickets, campers should notify the CCMM team via email if they are bringing a pet. Please note that aggressive or noisy dogs may not be permitted, and all dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. Dogs are not allowed in the event area, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit www.casinocountrymusicmuster.com.au.

ARIA and multiple Golden Guitar award winner Sara Storer

ROBERT HEYWARD

30 years leading councils and still learning

The Clarence Valley’s new mayor Ray Smith admits he still has plenty to learn after swapping sides from the operational side of local government to a role as an elected councillor.

Even with 30 years experience as a general manager ii local government at Grafton City Council (19932004), Cobar Shire (2004-2010) and Bland Shire (2010-2022) Cr Smith found his frst meeting last Thursday a “baptism of fre”.

He agreed there seemed to be an element on council determined to test his procedural and policy knowledge from the outset, but he put this down to disappointment rather than mischief.

“Emotions were running high, obviously,” he said. “And I know Peter (Johnstone) was disappointed that he wasn’t re elected as mayor.

“But I’m confdent that things will settle down so we’ll get on to doing what we were elected to do.”

The new mayor said he had noted there was already a group of

councillors that appeared to be voting together, but was confdent he could turn that around.

“That was, has been one of the criticisms of the former council,” he said.

“Certainly, you know, during my election campaign that was coming through loud and clear.

“I guess it’s up to me, as the man now to just try and meld them all together, harness the enthusiasm of the new councillors and utilise the skills of the reelected councillors.”

Cr Smith downplayed the failure of his mayoral minute calling for the deferral of a Northern Regional Planning Panel meeting called for Wednesday.

The panel will meet to determine a controversial $80 million development on the foodplain in West Yamba. See the report in this edition of The Northern Rivers Times.

He said the minute was just an attempt to assure the community the council was representing them in this important matter.

He was also surprised at the amount of interest some councillors

expressed in the supposed infuence of the community group the Yamba Community Action Group.

He said councillors seemed concerned that the election of the group’s former secretary Lynne Cairns to the council would grant Yamba CAN undue infuence on council.

“ I know that they believe that I was linked to Yamba CAN. That’s not the case,” he said.

“The only person I spoke to was Cr Cairns, who gave me some information about the meeting date, the reference numbers that

we could have quoted in a letter to the Minister.

“There was no liaison between me and in any members of Yamba CAN.

“And I wasn’t doing it on behalf of Yamba CAN. I was doing it on behalf of the community.”

He was surprised that some councillors sought to dismiss the group’s efforts.

“They’re a community group,” he said. “They’re entitled to ask questions.

“And I think some of the former councillors have just sort of been offended at the way, possibly, they’ve sought

information from the council.”

The new mayor said the major challenge facing the council was restoring community faith in it.

“I know that a couple of the re-elected councillors have indicated that they had a very successful term, and in regard to capital works and facilities, yes, they did,” he said.

“But there was still that very strong perception that the community wanted change.

“They don’t want to see factions in the council, and I guess as mayor, now that’s going to be my role and responsibility to just meld them into a formidable team that can produce benefts for the valley.”

Cr Smith said one of the major issues for this and other councils around NSW was development on the food plain.

Cr Smith agreed councils were in a hard place, because staff had State Government legislation as its guideline, but that legislation had become contentious.

“The councillors themselves, have to

Geographical Names Act 1966

listen to the concerns of the community, the matter going before the panel on Wednesday, I think there were 89 submissions, and council resolved back in July to support refusal of it on those ground, on a number of grounds,” he said.

“If council is going to refuse a development that complies, they have to have very valid reasons for refusing it. Otherwise, they’ll end up in the Land and Environment Court.”

On a brighter note Cr Smith was glad of the change to council meeting times and days.

“The consensus was that we’re all wide awake and much more alert earlier in the morning than later in the afternoon or the evening,” he said.

He said the change of meeting day to the third Thursday of the month would bring the meeting cycle into line with other bodies, like the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation.

“We’ll be going there with the decision of council for that particular meeting, rather than have to wait another month or two months,” he said.

The Geographical Names Board is seeking public comment on a proposal from Lismore Council to name the following: Junbung Park for a reserve located on Ballina Road, in the suburb of Goonellabah.

The proposal can be viewed and submissions lodged on the Geographical Names Board website at gnb.nsw.gov.au from 24 October 2024 to 23 November 2024. Alternatively, written submissions may be mailed to the Secretary, Geographical Names Board, 346 Panorama Avenue, Bathurst, NSW 2795.

In accordance with Section 9 of the Geographical Names Act 1966, all submissions lodged may be subject to a Government Information (Public Access) application and may be viewed by a third party to assist the Board in considering this proposal.

Narelle Underwood Chair

New Clarence Valley mayor Ray Smith says despite his decades of leading councils as a general manager there is a lot to learn about being a mayor.

TIM HOWARD

‘Help Us Save Nurses and Midwives, So They Can Save You’

Mandy Nolan to Host ‘Vital Work’ Forum with Local Nurses and Midwives on the Staffng Crisis

Mandy Nolan, Local Community Advocate and Greens Candidate for Richmond says our local hospitals are in a staffng crisis. With better wages and conditions just over the border, there is a massive attrition of nurses and midwives to Queensland, leaving our hospitals understaffed and overworked. In the last few months, they’ve been striking for the pay rise they were promised. But it still hasn’t been delivered. They’re at breaking point and they need the community to support them.

Nurses and Midwives in NSW are forced to beg for a 15% pay rise after suffering an effective pay cut of 10% since 2020. Meanwhile, Queensland is offering $20,000 sign-on and retention bonuses for

healthcare workers who move from interstate, and up to $70,000 for those relocating to rural or remote areas for over two years. This disparity has led to a signifcant exodus of skilled workers, with NSW Health reporting a 13.1% loss in its nursing workforce in 2022-23.

Mandy Nolan will host ‘Vital Work’ a forum on the crisis facing our Nurses, Midwives and Healthcare Workers across the Northern Rivers. Mandy will be joined by Dr Amanda Cohn, Greens NSW Health spokesperson and local Nurses and NSWMA representatives. What: Vital Work - A public forum with Local Nurses and Midwives on the staffng crisis

When: 6 pm, Wednesday 6 November Where: Banora Point Community Centre,

Corner Leisure Drive and Woodlands Drive, Banora Point Panellists:

• Kristin RyanAgnew, Tweed Branch President, NSW Nurses and Midwives

• Association and Registered Nurse and Midwife

• Angie Gittus, Murwillumbah Branch Secretary NSW Nurses and Midwives

• Association and Registered Nurse

• Heather Dunn, Registered Nurse and Midwife and NSWNMA Lismore

• Member

• Dr Amanda Cohn, Greens NSW MP and Health Spokesperson

• MC’d by Mandy Nolan, Local Community Advocate and Greens Candidate for Richmond

WILLIAMSON DEMANDS ACTION AFTER CRITICAL AMBULANCE STATION CLOSURE PUTS LIVES AT RISK

A Notice of Motion presented in the NSW Legislative Assembly on Tuesday by Clarence Nationals MP, Richie Williamson calls for urgent action by the NSW Labor Government following the overnight closure of the Evans Head Ambulance Station on 10 October 2024.

The closure has raised serious concerns about public safety, particularly in regional and rural communities like Evans Head, where ambulance services are crucial.

Mr Williamson’s motion acknowledges the essential role of New South Wales paramedics and condemns the NSW Labor Government for its failure to maintain adequate staffng levels, putting lives at risk.

“Paramedics are the backbone of healthcare, especially in regional areas like the Richmond and Clarence valleys,” Mr Williamson said.

“It’s unacceptable that the Evans Head Ambulance Station was closed overnight, leaving our community vulnerable and without

vital emergency services.”

Mr Williamson’s motion was prompted by concerns raised with him by the Health Services Union (HSU) and local paramedics, who have long warned about gaps between the Government’s public commitments and the reality paramedics face every day.

The HSU reported that despite government promises of additional paramedic positions, ambulance stations across the North Coast, including Evans Head and Mullumbimby, were left understaffed on the night of 10 October, leading to dangerous delays in response times.

“Not only in Evans Head but across regional NSW, communities are being left without the paramedic care they’ve been promised. The Government’s failure to properly staff our paramedics is creating serious risks, especially in rural and remote areas where response times are already critical,” Mr Williamson added.

The motion also calls on the Government to address widespread issues affecting paramedics, including outdated rosters and the failure to maintain on-call paramedics closer to home, as highlighted by the HSU.

“I am standing with our local paramedics and communities across regional NSW who deserve better. I will continue to push for greater investment in our healthcare system and for the Government to deliver on its commitments,” Mr Williamson concluded.

A copy of Mr Williamson’s motion can be found here https:// www.parliament.nsw. gov.au/la/papers/pages/ notice-tracking-details. aspx?pk=17139 or scanning the QR Code.

Elders Love Lismore Show

The North Coast community and businesses got behind this year’s Elders Love Lismore Show with a record number of entries in our Fine Arts competitions and more exhibitors than ever, North Coast National Elders Love Lismore Show Vice-President Ron Chittick said.

“There was a lot on offer at this year’s show, with new attractions and rides,” he said.

“The new PopZone and Cosplay competition were hugely successful with the community embracing the new concept, and the fact that we had record entries across many categories, shows that the Show remains the heart of our community.

“More than 20,000 people came to the Show, which is less than last year’s record-breaking crowd, but perfectly understandable given the

cost-of-living pressures, which is why the Show committee decided not to increase the cost of entry.

“Those who came were treated to some great entertainment, including the always popular Monster Trucks, FMX Motor Cross and the TNR Fireworks. You wouldn’t see any one of these anywhere else for less than the cost of entry, let alone all three plus more.

“We also hosted our frst Australian Woodchop Championship in a long time as well as two State Championships, thanks to our sponsor Hurford’s Hardwood.

“And I cannot remember the last time our Car Pavilion was so full.

“With warm temperatures, particularly on Saturday, our new low-sensory Chill and Charge Café proved a popular place

to seek refuge from the heat.

“We also had more than 350 head of cattle at the Show and our Equestrian and Show Jumping events drew healthy entries.

“There is a year’s planning and a lot of work that goes into putting the three days of the Show together and it’s all done by volunteers. On behalf of the Show Committee, I would like to thank our Stewards and all the volunteers for their time and effort to ensure everyone enjoys their time at the Show.

“I would also like to thank our naming rights sponsor Elders, which has given us great support and thank you to all our other sponsors, big and small. Without our sponsors we simply could not put on the Show, so please support them.”

Dealing with a ‘wicked’ problem

When it comes to the Game Changer Challenge, Alstonville and Bangalow Public Schools have got it in the bag.

Both schools have been selected out of 20 grand fnalists to help solve a real-world ‘wicked’ problem.

The Game Changer Challenge is the NSW Education department’s award-winning design thinking competition.

This year, in the annual challenge, entrants have been asked to make life better for all without harming the planet.

As part of the challenge the students have been developing ideas to address food security and reduce food waste.

“The Game Changer

Challenge encourages students to come up with a unique idea, develop it into a workable concept and deliver a compelling sales pitch to industry experts,” Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar said.

“The competition showcases the creativity and passion of our incredibly talented public school students across the state as they tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing our world today.”

With more than 400 teams entering, a record number of submissions, the two Northern Rivers schools have showed their prowess.

In the challenge the two key elements of the Game Changer

Challenge are ‘design thinking’ and the ‘wicked problem’.

Design thinking methodology is a human-centred approach to solving complex problems and focuses on empathy and collaboration.

A wicked problem is diffcult to solve due to incomplete, contradictory and changing factors.

UNICEF Australia delivered the 2024 wicked problem which is inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9 to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation.

Alstonville Public School are regulars at the Game Changer Challenge grand fnal and last year won the ‘Impact and Awareness Award.’ It’s also the second year in a row that a team from Bangalow Public School has qualifed for Sydney.

The grand fnal will be held 5-7 November at Parramatta in Sydney.

Diary of a food survivor

Over the weekend I went to my 40th school reunion.

I am still trying to get my head around the fact that I left school all those year ago.

But here we were in an RSL club in the northern suburbs of Sydney all a little worse for wear since we left Year 12 or Year 10 back in 1984 or 1982 respectively.

We had lost a couple of girls along the way (I went to an all girls school) mainly due to breast cancer, many had moved out of the confnes of Sydney living and had gone overseas, or like me, moved to another part of Australia.

There was only a small percentage of us, but we were enthusiastic and happy to catch up with what everyone had been doing over the years.

Many I am in contact with on Facebook, so they had seen the drama of the 2022 foods and even supported me through the work they did or donated to help my family.

So understandably, the question arose a

few times, asking if the house was all back together and had we moved on.

I don’t think anyone ever totally moves on from a massive event in their lives.

It simply weaves itself into the experiences and stories of our lives and in part defnes the person that we become out of it.

I will probably always be that school friend who lived through the 2022 food in the northern NSW area, just like others in my school cohort have gone through divorce, the death of a child, bankruptcy etc.

But there are also the good events in our lives that defne us.

I am also the school friend who has become a journalist and published a book.

There were others who had become cattle farmers, chemical engineers, teachers, gone on to foster children and those who had an abundance of grandchildren. The events of 2022 are only a small part of the people that we are and while it is good to talk about it, it isn’t the total sum of us, and we are here for more than just that experience. Little steps.

Photo courtesy of NSW Education

Girls on Fire Take Action Amid Growing Bushfre Risks

As the risk of bushfres in regional and rural NSW escalates ahead of the summer season, Girls on Fire, a not-for-proft organisation founded by frefghter and advocate Bronnie Mackintosh, is leading efforts to

communities across regional and rural NSW. From Tenterfeld, Casino, and Lismore in the north, to Wilcannia and Dubbo in the west, and as far south as Eden, the roadshow will deliver crucial fre and disaster

Bush Fire Survival Plan with their family, and download the Hazards Near Me app.”

Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

The Fire UP Girls on Fire Roadshow provides participants

help communities prepare. With women making up only 5-7% of Australia’s frefghting workforce, Girls on Fire is on a mission to increase diversity and build resilience within emergency services.

The Fire UP Roadshow, part of Girls on Fire’s initiatives, will cover thousands of kilometres, bringing together 15

management training to girls aged 15-19.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib emphasized the importance of preparation:

“With high temperatures forecast this summer, we cannot be complacent. Everyone needs to take the time now to understand their risks, discuss their

with essential life skills, leadership training, and emergency response knowledge. The roadshow will stop in Tenterfeld on October 22, Casino on October 23, and Lismore on October 24, 2024, for one-day Girls Fire and Resilience Camps.

Supported by volunteers from the Rural Fire Service, Police, SES,

Ambulance, Forestry, and Indigenous communities, alongside local schools and organisations, these camps aim to inspire and empower young women to lead in a future where extreme weather events are becoming more frequent.

Bronnie Mackintosh explained the program’s importance:

“Visibility now creates leadership later. By giving young women real-world skills today, we are preparing them to be tomorrow’s emergency services personnel and community leaders. With a new bushfre season ahead, it’s more important than ever to be ready.”

Challenging Participants to Discover Their Strengths

Many participants discover their capabilities for the frst time by engaging in activities such as running a fre hose from a truck, working as a team in a smoke-flled building, or using specialised equipment to extinguish fres and rescue people from car wrecks. These immersive, hands-on experiences build confdence, resilience,

and leadership skills that prepare participants for unforeseen challenges.

Bronnie Mackintosh shared:

“With extreme weather on the rise, it’s vital we equip the next generation to lead their communities. These camps help young women discover just how much they’re capable of. By challenging themselves in fre and emergency scenarios, they walk away with the confdence to tackle anything.”

Pathways to Careers and Volunteering

The camps also introduce participants to potential careers in frefghting and emergency services. Through mentorship from experienced professionals, participants gain frsthand experience in teamwork and leadership. Special efforts are made to

encourage young women from First Nations and culturally diverse communities to explore these career paths. Those interested in volunteering or attending the Girls Fire and Resilience Camps can register at girlsonfre. org.au.

Supported by Key Partners

The Fire UP Roadshows are free to participants, thanks to funding from the NSW Government’s Investing in Women grant, principal partner NAB, and in-kind support from Chubb Fire & Security.

Tenterfeld Tue 22 Oct 9 til 3pm - Tenterfeld Showground Casino Wed 23 Oct 9 til 3pm - Casino Rural Fire Service Control Centre

Lismore Thurs 24 Oct 9 til 3pm - Lismore Showground

Harden Murrumburrah Passes the Flame to Lismore for the 2025 Rural Women’s Gathering

Lismore has been named the host of the 2025 Rural Women’s Gathering during a symbolic candle lighting ceremony at the 2024 event in Harden Murrumburrah. Tina Irish and Karen Hirst, representatives of Lismore City Council, joined Minister for Women Jodie Harrison and the 2024 organising committee to offcially accept the responsibility of hosting next year’s gathering.

The NSW Government has committed $30,000 to support the event, reinforcing its dedication to empowering women and girls in regional, rural, and remote NSW. This funding aims to foster connections and build new skills to help women achieve their full potential.

The Rural Women’s Gathering is an annual event that moves to a different location each year. This year’s gathering in Harden Murrumburrah, themed “Sowing the Seeds of Success - Creating Your Own Work-Life Balance,” offered a diverse program of workshops, networking opportunities, and cultural experiences, all designed by a dedicated local volunteer committee.

Inspiring female leaders spoke at the event, including former Australian Olympian and two-time Athletics World Champion Jana Pittman, Founder of Womn-Kind and AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award 2024 NSW/ACT Finalist Ruby Reithmuller, and Kimberley Furness, AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award 2022 VIC Winner, magazine publisher, and podcaster. Details for the 2025 gathering will be shared via the NSW Rural Women’s Network’s fortnightly e-newsletter. Interested individuals can subscribe at nsw.gov. au/women-nsw/ruralwomens-network.

Ministerial Support

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting women in rural and regional communities, acknowledging the unique challenges they face and celebrating their resilience. She stated:

“The Rural Women’s Gathering is a valuable opportunity for women to share their experiences and learn from one another, ultimately strengthening communities across NSW. I thank the Harden Murrumburrah team for their outstanding efforts in making this year’s event a success, and I look forward to the 2025 gathering in Lismore.”

Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison, expressed her gratitude for the volunteers who made the 2024 event possible, emphasizing the gathering’s importance in connecting women to vital resources and fostering resilience:

“After 31 years, the Rural Women’s Gathering remains a pivotal event on the NSW Rural Women’s Network calendar, enabling women from regional, rural, and remote areas to connect, learn, and celebrate. I am eager to see the exciting program Lismore will deliver in 2025.”

Local Excitement for 2025

Janelle Saffn, Member for Lismore, expressed her excitement for Lismore to host the 2025 event, noting the strength and leadership of women in the region:

“We have incredible women across our community involved in various sectors, from the CWA to emergency services. The Rural Women’s Gathering in Lismore is a fantastic opportunity to showcase their contributions and make it easier for local women to participate.”

Kyogle Road food restoration takes a major step forward

A signifcant step forward has been achieved in the restoration of Kyogle Road following the devastating foods of February 2022.

Contractor CMC has successfully reopened Site A, near Byangum Bridge, to dual lane traffc after extensive damage reduced it to a single lane controlled by traffc lights.

The February foods caused severe road collapses at three key sites between Byangum and Uki, as well as widespread damage to Mount Warning Road, leaving the hinterland road network heavily impacted by the rising Tweed River.

With the installation of guardrails and completion of linemarking, Site A is now fully operational with two lanes open

under a reduced speed limit of 80 km/h. However, a 40 km/h speed zone remains in effect at a neighbouring site.

CMC is leading the reconstruction efforts at all three damaged sites on Kyogle Road, along with the restoration of Mount Warning Road. The total cost for the four restoration projects surpasses $38 million, funded through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements provided by the Australian and NSW governments following the food event.

• Site B at Boulder Close and Site C, the largest and most complex restoration site near Uki, are projected to reopen to traffc by the end of 2024.

• Mount Warning Road is anticipated to reopen to dual-lane traffc by the end of November 2024.

The restoration of Site A required stabilizing a 115-metre-long slip, which had sunk over 5 metres deep. Crews installed fve rows of one-metre-high gabion baskets to bring the site back to road level. In total, more than 22,000 tonnes of rock were transported, necessitating over 3,600 truck trips. A total of 3,445 gabion baskets were assembled and flled, utilising over 480,000 rocks to complete the restoration.

Council Project Manager Brad Turner commended CMC’s efforts:

“Council applauds CMC for their outstanding work in coordinating the construction of the four complex restoration sites. They have not only managed the construction effciently but have also taken great care to protect the

Tweed River throughout the project.”

CMC Project Manager Adon Dinsmore expressed his pride in completing this critical infrastructure well ahead of schedule:

“We are incredibly grateful for the patience and support from the local community and road users, which has been essential in managing traffc around the work zone. We recognise the challenges these projects bring, and we are proud to leave behind a lasting legacy that will beneft future generations. Additionally, we are thankful for the opportunity to support local volunteer organisations that play a vital role in the community.”

For more information on the restoration works, visit tweed. nsw.gov.au/foodrestoration-works.

IAN ROGERS

Flood restoration road work on the land slip on Kyogle Road, closest to Byangum Bridge, has now been completed by contractor CMC and is open to dual lanes of traffc under an 80km/h speed limit.

Site A on Kyogle Road which was severely damaged in the 2022 foods.

Mountain Blue and Opal Launch Plastic-Free Cardboard Packaging Trial

Mountain Blue, a leader in innovative blueberry genetics, has partnered with Opal, a packaging and systems solutions company, and supermarket retailer Coles Group to trial a plastic-free packaging solution for the brand Eureka. This initiative, part of Mountain Blue’s commitment to sustainability, will be tested across 34 Coles stores in Northern New South Wales over a two-month period.

The trial introduces kerbside recyclable,

FSC®-certifed cardboard punnets as an alternative to traditional plastic containers for blueberries. The new punnets, made from responsibly sourced materials, feature a transparent flm derived from wood pulp, allowing customers to easily view the fruit while supporting eco-friendly packaging solutions.

The use of FSCcertifed materials reinforces Mountain Blue’s dedication to sustainability

by ensuring the packaging comes from responsibly managed forests. The recyclable punnets, developed in collaboration with Opal, offer a plastic-free alternative without compromising the quality and freshness that Mountain Blue Blueberries are known for.

Opal manufactures the punnets from recycled paper in Australia, providing the strength needed to protect fresh produce throughout the supply chain and freight.

Andrew Bell, Managing Director of Mountain Blue, expressed his excitement for the initiative:

“We’re thrilled to partner with Opal in trialling these kerbside recyclable cardboard punnets. This innovation offers Cole’s customers a sustainable packaging option for their blueberries.”

Chris Daly, Executive General Manager at Opal Packaging, emphasized the company’s focus on research and

development:

“By working closely with Mountain Blue, we were able to meet their packaging needs and deliver a solution that is not only functional and sustainable but also innovative.”

Brooke Donnelly, General Manager of Sustainability at Coles, highlighted the importance of packaging innovation:

“Fresh produce packaging is ready for change, and we’re excited to offer customers a plastic-

free alternative for blueberries. This trial allows us to ensure the new punnets maintain freshness and taste while gauging customer feedback.”

Eureka blueberries in the new recyclable packaging will be available across Northern NSW throughout October 2024. Mountain Blue hopes this trial will pave the way for broader adoption of sustainable packaging solutions in the future.

Byron Shire Winners Head to Sydney for State Business Awards

Two standout Byron Shire businesses are heading to Sydney after celebrating regional success at the Northern Rivers Regional Business Awards. The Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce took home the Outstanding Local Chamber Award, while Off The Rails earned the Micro Business Award for the second consecutive year.

Off The Rails (OTR), a reclaimed timber business, continues to lead in sustainability and community impact. Their innovative approach to sourcing and repurposing salvaged wood has earned them a

nomination for a Sustainability Award, further highlighting their commitment to eco-friendly practices. By redefning the use of reclaimed timber, OTR is not only reshaping the Byron region’s landscape but also driving economic growth and promoting ecological resilience, setting new benchmarks for sustainable development.

The Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce, led by President Matt Williamson, has successfully tackled key local business challenges such as declining trade, staffng shortages,

and high rents. With initiatives like the Value Proposition Workshop and involvement in the Federal Government Flood Inquiry, the Chamber has provided critical support and delivered meaningful solutions for the local business community. Both the Chamber and Off The Rails will represent Byron Shire at the Business NSW State Finalist Awards on October 30th, competing against top businesses across the state.

For more information about the awards, visit businessnsw.com.au.

Mountain Blue Coles customer Alice at Coles Ballina

Mountain Blue Opal punnet

“

Leemo has views on just about anything”

LEEMO & BUDDIES go to the SHOW!!

It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ here. Struth! I, plus my buddies ‘Pasqualie’, ‘Precious’ and ‘Brutus’ sucked up hugely to ‘Mum Jane’ to get her take us to the Lismore Show; we are NOW in strife; we got ‘escorted’ home from the Show (under guard) a er being hurled into a Paddy Wagon. Mum’s face was akin to that of a constipated hippo; not attractive on her pruney dial. We kitties will now face an Inquisition, kinda akin to the Spanish one. She spoke. ‘OK you lot if any of you has just ½ a brain I suggest you listen VERY closely. Gottit?’ (We feigned wide-eyed innocence.) Oooh, the old woman’s voice went up 10 octaves and emanated a sound like a Bass-Baritone Male Singer in a drunken stupor singing a tragic Opera that resonated sounds akin to a crabby hungry Lion. Eeeek! Shouting. ‘You lot sneakily cajoled, nagged & attered me to take you to the Lismore Show. YEP, in the end, I gave in; I found a pram thingie in which to take you all wearing cute baby masks with eye holes, & covered you all in swaddling clothes; you promised you’d all just quietly peek around & take in the sights. WELL, it didn’t turn out as you promised DID IT? All was calm ‘till I wheeled you into the ‘Best Feline in Show’ Pavilion; ‘Pasqualie’, pray tell, was there truly a need for you to shout ‘I’m more bewitching than that cat called ‘Dollyboo’ (dumb name) who won 1st prize? Well, her eyelashes? Obviously fake & her tail has been permed (Yuk) by the look

of it.’ YOU were asked to leave. NEXT is YOU ‘Brutus’. WHY did you eat Fairy Floss & a ½ Hot Dog with mustard THEN hop on a ride called the ‘Phoenix’ resulting in you being sick over the nice humans sharing the carriage? YOU were asked to leave. AND, as for you ‘Precious’ words are beyond me. As a generally delicate female, why did it cross your tiny mind to think you could round up bovines & create mayhem by clawing them during the judging? YOU were asked to leave; AND, as for you ‘Leemo’ YOU were the worst. My disappointment in you is palpable. WHY did you encourage your buddies to escape the pram & take o ; you chucked away your baby masks & swaddling, then ran amok in the Show exhibits?’ Reports from Show O cials tell me you all tried to get into the CWA Cabinet & claw Audrey’s exquisite hand made quilt, stunning tea cosies & other stu en you moved on to the Baking area & poked your maws & claws into yummy home baked goods. en you tried to unravel a hand-knitted jumper (by 1st prize winner, my buddie Wendy) by rolling around all over & in it. THEN you dug up Prize plants. Finally, a Cat Wrangler named Morty lassoed & bought you home to ME. Well, thanks very bloody much the lot of you. I’m morti ed & embarrassed; AND, I had to pay a ne of $133.38 under the ‘Moggie Mayhem’ Act of 1902. Needless to say, you’ll be paying me back..gottit?’ I might add Leemo, the Show Society has banned YOU for life. is ban has NEVER been enforced, but was necessary a er the chaos you initiated as ‘Leader of the Gang.’ So, all of you; get out of my sight until you’ve learned to behave. AND you WILL make a public apology to me, the Show Society and a number of very upset Exhibitors. ink about it, & maybe call the Mayor or the Pope for advice.’ Ooooh! We’re OUTTA here. I reckon it’s nitey minus any purrs from any of us. Leemo & Buddies.

Northern Rivers food and beverage producers to share in $160 million of research, innovation and training

Developing smart, sustainable, Australianmade food and beverage products and technologies will be the focus of a new collaboration between Northern Rivers Food (NRF) and Australia’s Food and Beverage Accelerator (FaBA).

As one of Australia’s leading associations of Food and Beverage producers, NRF aims to support its Northern Rivers NSW members’ businesses by providing opportunities for education, collaboration, promotion and acceleration.

FaBA is a $160 million Federal Government initiative to foster

collaboration between industry and university researchers to accelerate the development of ingredients, products and skills that beneft Australia. Working together, the NRF-FaBA Collaboration will help NRF’s members thrive in the ever-evolving food and beverage manufacturing market.

Announcing this partnership, NRF Executive Offcer, Lucy Ashley said, “The collaboration with FaBA will have far-reaching benefts for all our food and beverage production members, from the largest regional businesses to the start-ups.

“From assistance with developing new products and access to research and technology, to commercialisation support, training and collaborative opportunities, our local members will gain access to opportunities that will accelerate their success.

“According to Regional Development Australia, Food Manufacturing has recently delivered $400 million in value to our region, and we are confdent that with FaBA’s support, we will see that growth continue,” Ms Ashley said.

Dr Chris Downs, FaBA Director, said,

“FaBA has developed an innovative, integrated process to support businesses across the innovation pipeline—from new ideas to new ingredients, building capabilities to building commercial application—that helps lead to commercial success. By working together, we will assist NRF’s members to thrive in the ever-evolving food and beverage manufacturing market.

“This collaboration is about creating innovative products and ensuring producers are set up for success so they will thrive,” Downs said.

New Public Art Brings Wardell Bridge Underpass to Life

The Wardell Bridge underpass has been transformed with the installation of a vibrant new mural that captures the unique character of this river town. Local artist Kate Stroud created the large-scale artwork, which now brightens Bridge Drive with a celebration of the town’s cultural and natural heritage.

The design, inspired

by ideas shared by the community, refects the rich history and spirit of Wardell. It all began at the Wonderful Wardell event in June 2024, where residents expressed what makes their town so special. Using these contributions, Kate developed a lively mural flled with bold colours and playful imagery that embodies Wardell’s identity.

The mural features symbolic elements such

as fshing, bird life, water ripples, wildlife, rainbows, and even the beloved Wardell pies. Indigenous iconography is also woven into the design, honouring the deep connection between the river, the town, and its people.

Paula Newman, Ballina Shire Council’s Manager Strategic Planning, highlighted the signifcance of the project:

“This mural is a wonderful refection

of Wardell’s vibrant community spirit and rich cultural history. It brings together elements that are meaningful to the people who live here, and it beautifully captures the essence of this unique river town.”

She added, “Public art has the power to transform spaces, and this project is a fantastic example of how creativity can enrich our environment and strengthen our sense of place. We are delighted

to have worked with such a talented artist and an engaged community to bring this project to life.”

Kate Stroud is a visionary artist, signwriter, and largescale muralist known for her ability to capture the bold, outspoken, and creative energy of the Northern Rivers region. Her joyful, thought-provoking, and occasionally rebellious works refect her deep connection to the

community and her passion for fostering a vibrant, creative economy.

As a strong advocate for community-driven initiatives, Kate’s work consistently celebrates identity, resilience, and the spirit of survival.

The Wardell mural project was made possible by Ballina Shire Council, with proud funding support from the NSW Government.

Illuminate 2024 Returns Due to Popular Demand

Once again, the breathtaking Jacaranda blooms at See Park in Grafton will light up the night with the return of Illuminate, a mesmerizing evening display. Running from Friday, 18 October to Sunday, 10 November, 20 mature jacaranda trees will be bathed in the glow of 126 spotlights, transforming the park into a magical experience from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm each evening.

This free event is a highlight of the Jacaranda Season celebrations and is perfect for visitors of all ages. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights (through to 8 November), you can also enjoy a vibrant

atmosphere with food trucks and live entertainment. Bring along a picnic rug and relax under the glowing jacarandas for an

unforgettable evening. Upcoming Jacaranda Road Closures: To accommodate the festivities, several road closures will occur

during the season:

• Saturday, 26 October: Parade of Youth (8:30 am – 9:30 am) – Rolling road closure along Prince

Street (Kemp Street to Bacon Street)

• Wednesday, 30

October: Carnival Capers (1 pm – 10 pm) – CBD Skinner Street,

South Grafton

• Thursday, 31

October: Jacaranda Thursday (6 am – 3 pm) – Prince Street and Fitzroy Street, across Queen

• Saturday, 2

November:

o Vintage Car Show (7 am – 2 pm) – Duke Street (between Fitzroy Street and Victoria Street)

o Jacaranda Criterium (12 pm – 3 pm) – Prince Street (Bacon Street to Dobie Street)

o Jacaranda Float Procession (3 pm – 7 pm) – Prince Street (Victoria Street to Arthur Street)

Enjoy the magical Jacaranda season and plan your visit around these closures for a seamless experience!

Installed artwork, Bridge Drive, Wardell

Installed artwork, Bridge Drive, Wardell

LIAM JENNINGS

Samantha’s Book

$350k Investment to Boost Nursing Workforce and Promote Healthy Ageing on the North Coast

Romeo and Juliet

Title: Romeo and Juliet

Author: William

Shakespeare

Price: $15.99

Distributor: Booktopia

By Samantha Elley

It could be argued that every ‘boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy fnds her again’ style movie is based on Romeo and Juliet and I think to some extent they are right.

However, Hollywood likes fairytale endings. Shakespeare doesn’t, especially when it comes to his tragedies.

Continuing on with reviewing the classics, the story of two young lovers from feuding households has kept followers of romance engaged for years.

But did you know that Juliet was a rebound for Romeo? You’ll have to read the story to fnd out the details.

Nonetheless, they fall hopelessly in love and know it is going to be a diffcult road as their older, much ‘wiser’ family members can’t stand the

sight of each other.

It’s the way it has always been between the Capulets and the Montagues.

The hate has been going on so long, no family member can really remember why.

But such strong emotion brings together two of the youngest members of both families, who fall in love and want to get married.

The iconic balcony scene, whose lines are best remembered by most Australians, thanks to a particular chocolate block advertisement, reveals the depths of Romeo and Juliet’s love, but also the impossibility of them ever being together.

A plan is then hatched to overcome the hate between the families and ensure the young lovers can be together.

With the help of their friar and a sleeping potion, the plan is enacted but goes astray with the worst of consequences.

And while there are readers who remember the story from their school days or through a healthy interest in Shakespearian literature, I won’t spoil the ending, but encourage you to buy the book from www.booktopia.com.au

LIAM JENNINGS

Healthy North Coast has unveiled a $350,000 initiative aimed at enhancing health and wellbeing for ageing patients by strengthening the skills of nurses in general practice across the region.

This funding, part of the Australian Government’s response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care through the Primary Health Network (PHN) program, will provide specialised education and coaching for nurses. The focus is on improving skills in chronic disease management and early intervention, helping older residents in the area live healthier lives as they age.

Monika Wheeler, CEO of Healthy North Coast, highlighted the critical role nurses will play in the future of health care on the North Coast:

“With one in three residents projected to be over the age of sixty-fve on the North Coast in less than a decade, our health system will face

enormous pressure if we don’t start to shift the dial in healthy ageing and reducing chronic disease prevalence.

“This investment will enable practice nurses to operate at the top of their scope, empowering them to provide comprehensive care and support older people in managing their health proactively. It’s a vital step to ensuring that our workforce is prepared for the challenges ahead.”

A pilot education program, involving six general practices across the North Coast, is being trialled to help nurses provide extended patient appointments, allowing for more focus on healthy ageing strategies and managing chronic conditions.

The participating practices, spanning from Lakewood in the south to Mullumbimby and Kyogle in the north, will offer nurses training and support to enhance their skills in areas such as healthy lifestyle promotion, dementia care, end-of-life planning, and multimorbidity

management.

These additional skills will enable nurses to deliver compassionate, comprehensive care earlier in the ageing process, empowering patients to manage agerelated conditions with more confdence and live higher-quality lives for longer.

This $350,000 pilot is part of a broader $650,000 investment into the older person’s nursing workforce as outlined in Healthy North Coast’s Healthy Ageing Strategy, which aims to address the urgent need for a sustainable and capable primary and aged care workforce in the region.

Other initiatives in this investment include programs for nurses in Residential Aged Care and the development of new Healthy Ageing HealthPathways to assist practitioners at the point of care.

Dr. Tony Lembke, a partner GP at Alstonville Clinic, is a member of the Specialist Nurse Education consortia responsible for designing and implementing the

education package for participating nurses.

“Promoting healthy ageing is a key role of general practice. This new program allows our highly skilled practice nurses to take a lead in developing innovative ways of partnering with patients in all stages of their health journey.”

Amanda Moss, Practice Nurse at Woodburn Health, was thrilled to be announced among the successful applicants:

“The professional development for practice nurses is an exciting opportunity, as it will ensure that our team is better equipped to meet the complex needs of our aging population, giving them confdence and contributing to a more coordinated and holistic approach to care.”

Participating nurses will commence the pilot education program in the coming weeks, after which the program’s tools and supporting resources will be available to all practices across the North Coast in a region-wide roll out.

Supporting Kids’ Resilience in Northern Rivers: Mustering Growth Program Expands

Rural Aid is excited to announce the expansion of its highly regarded ‘Mustering Growth’ program, an initiative designed to strengthen the resilience and wellbeing of primary students in rural and regional Australia. Over the next two months, the program will extend to two more schools— Modanville Public School and Channon Public School—bringing the total number of schools that have benefted to 15.

The ‘Mustering Growth’ program consists of fve sessions

that focus on fostering resilience, enhancing mental health, and promoting personal growth in rural schoolchildren. These sessions provide students with practical tools and strategies to cope with the unique challenges of rural life, particularly in the wake of natural disasters like the devastating foods that have hit the Northern Rivers region in recent years.

The program is part of a broader effort to support the long-term wellbeing and development of rural communities.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters emphasized the importance of programs

like this in building stronger, more resilient communities. “The ‘Mustering Growth’ program refects our broader commitment to helping rural communities thrive, not just survive. By tackling the economic and mental health challenges our farmers face, we aim to empower them with the knowledge and support necessary for success,” Mr. Warlters said.

Since its launch in 2023, ‘Mustering Growth’ has reached nearly 800 students, not only in the Northern Rivers but across Australia. The program has been widely embraced by students

and educators, with many schools requesting repeat visits to equip new groups of students with these crucial life skills. “That invitation to return to schools and equip another group of kids with important life skills that will help set them up for the future is a wonderful validation of Mustering Growth,” Mr. Warlters added. As the program continues to expand, Rural Aid remains committed to providing essential resources that promote resilience and well-being among the next generation of rural Australians.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Council Seeks Community Input on Draft Ageing Well in the Tweed Strategy 2024−2029

The Tweed Shire Council is inviting community feedback on its new Draft Ageing Well in the Tweed Strategy 2024−2029, which aims to ensure the region is well-prepared for the expected doubling of residents aged over 65 in the coming years.

Open for public consultation until Friday, 15 November 2024, the strategy outlines how Council will support the ageing population in living active, healthy, and connected lives while addressing challenges such as housing affordability, healthcare services, and social isolation.

The Draft Strategy was developed by the Council in partnership with specialist consultants, the Phillips Group, following community engagement in March 2024. This included workshops during the 2024 Tweed Seniors Festival, a community-wide survey, and consultations with local service providers and organizations.

The community-wide survey received an enthusiastic response, with 178 residents offering feedback and ideas that have informed the draft. Once fnalized, this Strategy will serve as a roadmap to guide the Council’s actions to support residents aged 55

and over.

A Blueprint for an Age-Friendly Community Council’s Director of Sustainable Communities and Environment, Naomi Searle, emphasized the importance of community feedback, given the growing proportion of seniors in the Tweed area.

“Seniors make up a signifcant portion of our community, with more than a quarter of all residents aged over 65 years—double the state average,” said Ms. Searle. “Based on current projections, the number of residents aged over 65 is expected to double over the next 25 years. We need to be prepared to address the challenges ahead and ensure the Tweed remains an age-

friendly community.”

The Draft Strategy outlines a vision for an age-friendly Tweed, where older individuals feel safe, supported, and connected, with access to opportunities to remain active and engaged.

The Council is now seeking feedback from the community to ensure that the proposed actions align with the social, cultural, economic, and environmental needs of the ageing population.

Key Actions in the Draft Strategy

The Draft Ageing Well Strategy includes a total of 21 key actions, focusing on four main areas:

1. A Safe and Friendly Tweed:

• Establish a Seniors Advisory Group.

• Advocate for senior safety and crime prevention initiatives.

• Upgrade public infrastructure and equip frontline workers with senior-related information.

2. A Connected and Engaged Tweed:

• Improve public transport options for seniors.

• Develop programs that offer social opportunities and new skills training.

• Create an information roadshow to connect seniors with essential services.

3. A Resilient and Informed Tweed:

• Offer workshops to help seniors transition to

• Create a social connection program directory and new skills training for healthy ageing.

retirement.

• Develop a roadmap for ageing to connect seniors with the information they need.

• Implement a climate change education and preparedness program.

4. A Healthy and Vibrant Tweed:

• Increase the visibility of seniors through advocacy and support.

• Develop partnerships with local businesses to support age-friendly initiatives.

• Strengthen connections between health and aged care providers.

• Create a ‘Living Library’ to build understanding and inclusion.

• Promote access to community gardens, Council meeting spaces, and work towards

joining the World Health Organization’s global network of age-friendly cities and communities. Have Your Say Community input is critical to ensure the fnal Strategy refects the needs and aspirations of the Tweed’s growing senior population.

Residents can provide their feedback on the Draft Ageing Well in the Tweed Strategy by visiting the Your Say Tweed website at yoursaytweed.com.au/ ageingwell to view the document and submit feedback online. Hard copies of the Draft Strategy are available at Council’s customer service centres and libraries. Written submissions can be mailed to Joanne Watters at PO Box 816, Murwillumbah NSW 2484.

For more information, visit the Your Say Tweed website, or contact Council’s Community Care team at (02) 6670 2400 or via email at communityservices@ tweed.nsw.gov.au.

The community’s participation is essential to help shape a future where Tweed remains an inclusive, supportive, and vibrant place for people of all ages, particularly as the population continues to age.

WILLIAMSON CALLS FOR URGENT LEGISLATIVE CHANGES TO STRENGTHEN CHILD PROTECTION LAWS

Nationals MP for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has called for urgent changes to Child Protection Legislation following a deeply disturbing allegation involving a Grafton student.

The alleged incident was recently brought to the MP’s attention and exposed an alarming loophole in the current legal framework where alleged predatory behaviour towards a 12-year-old child

was not classifed as “grooming” under existing laws.

Mr Williamson has urged the NSW Government to immediately implement amendments to Section 66EB of the Crimes Act 1900 to better protect children.

“The alleged offender in this incident is alleged to have sent a number of messages to a child late at night, which left the child’s family horrifed. Yet, under

current legislation, such behaviour does not meet the defnition of grooming,” Mr Williamson said.

“This alleged incident has shocked our community and parents across the state. It is unacceptable that this type of behaviour is not legally considered grooming. We must act swiftly to close this gap in the law to protect our children, the most vulnerable in our community.”

Mr Williamson emphasised his commitment to working on a bipartisan basis to ensure the law is changed. He has already written to the Premier and pledged to collaborate with the Attorney General and other members of Parliament to ensure that predatory behaviour like this is recognised as grooming, and stronger protections for children are implemented.

“This alleged incident

highlights the need for immediate legislative action,” Mr Williamson said.

“I have seen this Parliament come together before to make important changes, and I believe we can do it again. This is about safeguarding our children and ensuring they are protected from those who seek to exploit them.”

Dr Hugh McDermott, Parliamentary Secretary to the Attorney

General, supported Mr Williamson’s call, stating that the safety of children transcends party politics, and bipartisan efforts would be made to amend the legislation.

Mr Williamson concluded, “If we can strengthen the law to better protect our children from grooming, we will have done something vital for the future of New South Wales. I won’t rest until this change is made.”

Members of the Fun Activities for Banora (FABS) Crochet Club - Carol, Bev, Yvonne, Roslyn and Helen - love catching up with each other each week. More organised activities for the Tweed’s older population are proposed as part of the Draft Ageing Well in the Tweed Strategy 2024-2029.

FOR weeks now, I’ve been going over in my mind the complete and utter enormity of the gruesome reality, that is war. One tiny word which has caused so much pain and suffering, a suffering that no generation in all of human history has been spared, or even dared to not be drawn and caught in its searing clutches. None other than the ancient Greek and ‘Father of History’, Herodotus once lamented around 450 BC, “In peace, sons bury their fathers. In war, fathers bury their sons.” To this day, no day has passed on this planet where that outcome hasn’t played out somewhere. It takes your breath away to know that in the 100 years of the 20th Century alone it is estimated that approximately 231 million people lost their lives due to war. Call it what you like, or as Margaret Atwood once aptly said, “War is what happens when language fails.” No person’s ‘life story’ should ever be abruptly ended because of a dispute, be that a large-scale geopolitically motivated one, or a petty grievance that can’t be resolved in a sane manner. As the 17th Century Frenchman Blaise Pascal failed to reconcile, “Can anything be stupider than that a man has the right to kill me because he lives on the other side of a river and his ruler has a quarrel with mine, though I have not quarrelled with him?”

There is an unfathomability to co-ordinated lethal conflict that doesn’t ‘strike home’ until you ponder the potential for

Dwelling Entitlement Exemption: Facilitating House Relocations in Lismore

those you love having their lives taken before your eyes because of nothing you nor they did, either directly or indirectly. So many times, I’ve reflected on the chilling irony of the comments of Elias Canetti, “It would be strange if among all the forms of life that may exist elsewhere, we on earth were the only ones to know war.” You can just see an assembled cohort of very confused aliens querying, “What, you humans actually kill each other to ‘resolve’ your conflicts?!”

Maybe the human being will never get to the bottom of its deep-seated propensity for war; though it is fascinating to note that the origin of the word itself stems from the Old Saxon and High German word ‘werran’, which literally means ‘to confuse, perplex, or to bring into confusion.’

As if we aren’t content or settled in some way, even when all is going well, or is it a simple case that unless we can manifest some form of disturbance amongst ourselves, then we don’t quite feel our purpose is being met?

At the end of the day, as the Nobel Prize-winning Brit, Bertrand Russell dared to say during WWI and pretty much got himself arrested for saying, “War does not determine who is right – only who is left.” And who, or what is left of the human race between now and the end of this century is something that remains to be seen, but let’s just hope that the eternal promise and sanctity of peace wins out, if it doesn’t otherwise ultimately prevail.

Lismore City Council has received an exemption from the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) to assist with the relocation of homes purchased through the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s Resilient Homes program. This exemption allows the Council to consider relocating dwellings to rural allotments where no current dwelling entitlement exists, potentially opening up more sites for housing in the region.

Under the Lismore Local Environmental Plan (LEP), rural allotments typically need to meet a minimum lot size (40 hectares or 20 hectares in some areas) for a dwelling entitlement. While many smaller rural lots still

have entitlements based on historical planning controls, others do not, often because they were once part of larger land holdings. A dwelling entitlement does not guarantee that a dwelling can be built or relocated but permits the Council to assess a Development Application (DA) to determine if the site is suitable.

Lismore City Council Mayor Steve Krieg emphasized the community’s interest in repurposing structurally sound homes from the buy-back program to provide housing for local families.

“Our community wants to use these abandoned but structurally sound homes across the Northern Rivers to house local families,”

Mayor Krieg said. “We worked with the NSW Government to fnd a solution where more

historic homes could be saved and relocated outside the food plain.”

Graham Snow, Council’s Head of Planning and Environment, added, “It doesn’t make sense to abandon homes that could be used to house people. This exemption offers a chance to relocate these houses to suitable rural sites, though fnding the right locations remains a challenge.”

Key Points of the Exemption:

• The exemption allows Lismore Council to consider rural sites without existing dwelling entitlements for potential house relocations.

• Sites must meet certain criteria, such as considering buffers to agriculture, watercourses, vehicle access, biodiversity, and risks from bushfre and fooding. Sites within the

food planning area are not suitable.

• The exemption applies for two years, until September 30, 2026.

• No additional rural subdivisions below minimum lot sizes are allowed—the exemption only applies to existing lots.

The exemption is expected to beneft recipients of the buy-back program and increase opportunities to relocate historic timber homes, as development on some designated Resilient Lands sites may take years to complete.

More details and the full Fact Sheet about the exemption and re-siting dwellings are available on the Council’s Future Housing page under the Relocating Dwellings tab at www.lismore. nsw.gov.au.

War to the floor…. by Nigel Dawe

ROBERT HAYWARD

New Mayor and Deputy Mayor voted in for Tweed

A new leadership team has been appointed to guide Tweed Shire Council, with Cr Chris Cherry re-elected as Mayor and Cr Meredith Dennis OAM re-elected as Deputy Mayor during an Extraordinary Meeting held this afternoon. Both were elected unopposed after Cr James Owen and Cr Reece Byrnes declined their nominations for the mayoral and deputy mayoral roles.

This marks Cr Cherry’s fourth term as Mayor, following her initial election as a Councillor in 2016. Over the past four years, she has led the Tweed through signifcant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating 2022 foods.

Cr Cherry will continue to serve as Mayor for the next two years, with her term running until the mid-term mayoral election in September 2026.

Expressing her gratitude to the community, Cr

Cherry said, “I sincerely thank the residents for their continued trust and support. The community has shown they value stability in leadership, and I am committed to providing just that.”

She further acknowledged the resounding endorsement of the current leadership team, with only one new representative, Cr Kimberly Hone, replacing the retiring Cr Warren Polglase.

Looking ahead, Cr Cherry emphasized her focus on affordable

housing and managing growth to ensure sustainable development while safeguarding the lifestyle and environment of Tweed.

“I am excited to work with a progressive Council and ensure the best outcomes for our community,” she said.

“As an independent, I will collaborate with all Councillors and politicians to achieve these goals.”

Cr Meredith Dennis OAM, re-elected as Deputy Mayor for her third term, will serve

in this capacity until September 2025. She expressed her excitement about continuing in the role, stating, “I am honored to once again support the Mayor and our community.

Addressing homelessness and protecting our local wildlife will be key priorities for me over the next four years.”

The 14 September 2024 election saw six sitting Councillors re-elected: Cr Rhiannon Brinsmead, Cr Reece Byrnes, Cr Chris Cherry, Cr Meredith Dennis, Cr Nola Firth,

and Cr James Owen. They are joined by newly elected Cr Kimberly Hone. All Councillors are currently participating in a comprehensive induction program, aligned with the Offce of Local Government, to ensure they are well-prepared for their responsibilities. This new Council marks an exciting time for Tweed, with a strong focus on progressive leadership and continued dedication to the community’s needs.

IAN ROGERS

The Tweed’s new team of Councillors are from left: James Owen, Rhiannon Brinsmead, Reece Byrnes, Nola Firth, Chris Cherry, Kimberly Hone and Meredith Dennis.

New Road Signs Installed to Enhance Safety for Drivers and Wildlife on Clothiers Creek Road

In a bid to improve road safety and protect wildlife, new signs have been installed along the koala zone corridor of Clothiers Creek Road.

These measures are part of a broader initiative aimed at encouraging motorists to slow down and drive cautiously through this critical area.

The signs, featuring a smiling koala face, have been placed at both ends of the koala zone, between North Hill Court and Sliprails Road. Their purpose is to alert drivers to reduce their speed and be mindful of the endangered koala population that frequently crosses this section of the road.

Clothiers Creek Road serves as a vital connector between the Pacifc Highway and the Tweed Coast, with over

3,270 vehicles using this winding route daily. The road cuts through the Cudgen Nature Reserve, an essential habitat and crossing zone for the endangered Tweed Coast koalas, whose population is under signifcant threat.

Thanks to a $70,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Local Small Commitments Allocation Program (LSCA), two solarpowered signs have been installed. These signs remind motorists to slow from 80 km/h to 70 km/h as they approach the koala zone. The signs monitor vehicle speeds, displaying a green smiling koala when drivers comply with the limit, while red text prompts speeding drivers to reduce their speed.

An additional four signs have been purchased for installation in other areas across the Shire. Additional Road

Safety Measures on Clothiers Creek Road

Along with the new signage, several other initiatives are being implemented to enhance safety on Clothiers Creek Road:

1. Speed Limit Review:

Following a request from Tweed Shire Council, Transport for NSW has completed a comprehensive review of the 70 km/h speed limit along 3.1 km of Clothiers Creek Road, from North Hill Court in Tanglewood to Rosewood Avenue in Bogangar. The review, conducted in line with the NSW Speed Zoning Standard 2023, took into account factors such as crash history, road function, traffc data, and the road environment. It concluded that the current 70 km/h speed limit is appropriate.

2. Traffc and Environmental: Assessments

The Council is collaborating with the Federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water to seek approvals for road and environmental protection works in coastal wetland areas. Additionally, a traffc engineering consultant has been engaged to assess proposed design options and their impact on traffc patterns and behaviour.

3. Feasibility Studies and Surveys: Tweed Shire Council is also exploring the feasibility of installing solarpowered lighting for traffc-calming chicanes and will commission further surveys to assess the potential impacts of these design choices.

Offcial Statements

Deputy Mayor of Tweed Shire, Meredith Dennis OAM, expressed her gratitude to the NSW Government for

supporting this critical road safety initiative.

“Clothiers Creek Road has a troubling record of accidents, and we extend our sympathy to the families affected by these tragic incidents. The road also poses a signifcant threat to our endangered koala population, and we’re urging all motorists to adhere to speed limits, particularly in the koala zone. Slowing down not only protects wildlife but also reduces the risk of accidents,” Cr Dennis said.

NSW Government North Coast spokesperson, Emily Suvaal MLC, welcomed the initiative, stating, “We commend Tweed Shire Council for their proactive efforts in enhancing road safety and protecting native wildlife. Projects like these are crucial as we approach the busy holiday season, and the Minns

Government remains committed to improving road safety across NSW.” Member for Richmond, Justine Elliot MP, also praised the program, saying, “This funding from the NSW Labor Government will help safeguard both motorists and our precious koalas.

The new signs along Clothiers Creek Road serve as a vital reminder for drivers to reduce speed and exercise caution.”

Learn More For more information about road safety, local road network projects, and how Tweed Shire Council prioritizes road maintenance, visit tweed. nsw.gov.au/roads.

To learn about Council’s koala conservation programs, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/ koalas.

NHVR Partners with Young Drivers for Spooky Road Safety Campaign: “Being Dead is Boring”

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has launched the third phase of its Don’t #uck With A Truck campaign, this time with a spooky twist to drive home a serious message: unsafe driving around trucks can have deadly consequences.

In collaboration with young drivers, the NHVR has created a series of engaging road safety videos, blending humour with stark

reality. Michelle Tayler, NHVR Acting Chief Operations Offcer, explained that the campaign’s new videos depict young drivers as ghosts following accidents with trucks, underlining the theme that “Being Dead is Boring.”

The videos draw on popular TikTok trends, humorously showing the ghosts in monotonous afterlife routines. Each video highlights a specifc safety scenario, such as trying to pass a turning truck, overtaking

without leaving enough space, or driving in a truck’s blind spot. These scenarios showcase the dull afterlife of young

drivers who made unsafe decisions on the road, reminding viewers of the serious risks of not driving carefully around trucks.

With young drivers overrepresented in crashes involving heavy vehicles, the campaign is designed to resonate with them using humour, TikTok-style videos, and relatable content.

“Every decision behind the wheel counts,”

Tayler emphasized, “and not knowing how to safely share the road with trucks could have haunting consequences.”

A recent NHVR survey revealed that 46% of young drivers hadn’t been taught how to drive

safely around trucks, and 49% didn’t know to leave a lane free beside a turning truck. The new campaign hopes to close these knowledge gaps while fostering a genuine commitment to road safety.

The campaign will be broadcast on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, targeting young drivers where they consume content.

For more information and to watch the videos, visit: www. dontmuckwithatruck. com.au.

JEFF GIBBS

IAN ROGERS

Mayor Chris Cherry, Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis OAM, Emily Suvaal MLC and Justine Elliot MP at one of the new road safety signs unveiled in the koala zone along Clothiers Creek Road at Bogangar.

One of the new road safety signs pictured in the distance beyond the koala zone indicator along Clothiers Creek Road. The signs alert motorists to how fast they are travelling, with a green smiley face koala indicating if they are below the 70km/h speed limit.

Puppy Tales em-barks on another grand adventure to capture the heart and soul of dogs across Australia

Calling the most adored dogs of Australia to be photographed in Dog Tales of Australia 2: Pawtraits and support charity!

Esteemed Australian phodographer and dog travel adventurer

Ms Kerry Martin of Puppy Tales em-barks on another epic and charitable canine adventure across Australia, and your dog can play a part!

The Australian Pet Photographer of the Year and Master of Photography is set on immortalising the profound love we have for our loyal companions, celebrating the connections we share and capturing the magic of Aussie dogs in a glorious nationwide coffee table book.

“Every dog is a one-of-a-kind individual

that enriches our lives and makes them worthy of admiration and appreciation,” says Kerry.

On this new mission, Kerry is travelling with her husband Sam and their dogs Keiko and Summer to every state (and nearly every region) in Australia over the next two plus years. She’ll be offering her award-winning photography services to dog lovers all around the country in the creation of a stunning coffee table book, Dog Tales of Australia 2: Pawtraits. Dog Tales of Australia 2: Pawtraits will feature Australia’s most beloved dogs against

the backdrop of the country’s stunning scenery. Participation in this project starts from $100, with $100 from each session photographed donated to Assistance Dogs Australia, a national charity that provides fully trained Assistance Dogs to people with mobility needs, autism or post-traumatic stress.

This new grand voyage comes after completing a 13-month, 56,400km caravan road trip around Australia, culminating in the Dog Tales of Australia guidebook of dogfriendly destinations across the country and raising funds to sponsor

a Defence Community Dog.

“We’re su-paw excited to be on the road again, this time supporting Assistance Dogs Australia and photographing even more gorgeous dogs than last time!” says Kerry.

“We’re revisiting cherished spots and exploring uncharted territories, capturing the essence of dog’s around Australia in the colourful and diverse landscapes we travel through in this beautiful country.

Whether you’d love a session for your best friend somewhere meaningful near home,

in a favourite scenic spot, or if you’d love to take a holiday yourself and join us in your dream session location, Kerry’s got you covered!

“We know that your pets are part of the family, someone you share adventures with and cuddle on diffcult (and good) days! They are the heart and soul by your side that you can’t imagine your life without. We capture all of that to create photographic artwork inspired by them, so you can have them star with pride on your walls,” she says.

If you’d like to make your best friend a star

and support Assistance Dogs Australia, visit the QR code.

Spots are limited. ONE session per town/ location and FOUR per City (in different locations). Once an area is flled, that’s it! For a detailed itinerary, please visit the QR code.

An Our Kids Garden Party for the ladies

The Our Kids Melbourne Cup Garden Party Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, 5 November, at the awardwinning Invercauld House.

This is one of Our Kids longest-running events, and it attracts ladies from across the region to gather the girls, frock up, don a fascinator, and enjoy a day of dining and fundraising for local charity Our Kids.

Throughout the day, there will be the BASEC Sweeps, where the ladies could take home 1, 2, or 3 cash prizes.

Local businesses will generously treat the ladies. There will be a beautiful surprise from Mel’s Melting Moments and stunning products from Winks Hairdressing.

Halls Bus Co is sponsoring prizes to encourage generosity, and the 5-Star beachfront Bryon Suites has generously donated one of its luxury suites and Amber Bryon a $500 dinner voucher to auction.

Continuing the theme of spoiling the ladies, The Fairmarket Lismore

Antique Centre has stunning pearl necklaces valued at $595 for two of the ladies who attend and a beautiful smoky quartz and diamond ring retailing for $3,000 that one lucky guest will take home.

The day raises funds for Our Kids, the charity who purchases paediatric equipment for our local hospitals in the region that help keep our children local when needing medical care.

This year, the funds raised on the day will help purchase an Icon Go Retinal

Imaging System that costs $159,000. This equipment helps our premature babies, who are vulnerable and need examination for Retinopathy of Prematurity. It is cuttingedge technology that will give a picture of the back of the eye so that the local team can send pictures immediately to the Queensland Paediatric Team, which can provide specialist treatment remotely. This equipment is needed as some babies are at risk of going blind at 35 weeks. Having

this equipment locally and portable means that the local medical team can do a scan on any day and at any given hour, and treatment can commence immediately. Currently, babies must travel to the Gold Coast for tests, and at least two to three examinations are required. For some context, retinopathy of prematurity was the cause of Stevie Wonder’s blindness. This equipment will impact Grafton, Lismore and Tweed babies as it is portable and can be

shared between sites. Our Kids Melbourne Cup Garden Party Luncheon Details:

Date: Tuesday 5 November

Location: Invercauld House

Time: 11 am start Tickets: are $125 per person, with tables of 10 available.

To book, donate to the Icon Go Retinal Imaging System or for more information, contact Rebekka Battista at 0438 417085.

TRUCKIES’ REST AREA UPGRADE COMPLETE

Northbound truckies looking for a safe place to rest now have fash new facilities on the Pacifc Motorway north of Maclean.

A Transport for NSW spokesperson said an upgrade of the Bundjalung rest area, about 15 kilometers north of the Iluka turn off on the motorway, has just been completed.

“This is a popular area for truckies needing a rest in their drive north towards Brisbane and the facilities were designed to meet the needs of heavy vehicle drivers,” the spokesperson said.

“The additional facilities are about 200 meters north of the existing rest area facilities and are closer

to where drivers park their heavy vehicles.

“They include a toilet block with four toilets - including a disabled toilet – three picnic shelters, footpaths and associated infrastructure.”

The spokesperson said Transport was very aware how important it was for drivers, whether it be of passenger or heavy vehicles, to take regular rest breaks.

“These upgraded facilities will encourage them to do just that and is all part of the NSW Government measures to make our roads safer,” the spokesperson said.

“Truckies will have easy access back to the highway so we believe it will be very popular.”

Tweed Shire Installs Six New Flood Monitoring Cameras to Improve Community Safety

• Terranora Road, north of the Dulguigan Road intersection

Mayor of Tweed Shire

Chris Cherry announced the activation of six new food monitoring cameras across the region, allowing residents to monitor rising water levels on key food-prone roads during wet weather.

This new set of cameras complements the six already operational since 2022, which have been invaluable during heavy rainfall and fooding events.

The cameras were installed in collaboration with the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) to provide real-time updates on road conditions during food events, offering critical intelligence to residents, emergency responders, and Council crews.

The new cameras are located at the following Tweed Coast locations:

• Fingal Road, near the second bridge, southwest of Wommin Lagoon

• Clothiers Creek Road, just east of the Pacifc Highway

• Pottsville Road, near the wastewater treatment plant at Mooball

• Wooyung Road, by the foodplain crossing, west of the fruit stall

• Crabbes Creek Road, at the frst causeway

These locations add to the existing cameras at Bilambil Sports Club, Boatharbour Bridge, Byangum Bridge, Murwillumbah Bridge, Piggabeen Road, and Tweed Valley Way near Chinderah.

Still images from the cameras are available on Tweed Shire Council’s website, refreshing every 15 minutes. A new Flood Monitoring Camera Policy, pending adoption, will expand access by allowing up to 4 hours of images to be viewed at 15-minute intervals, improving community access to real-time food

data.

The frst set of cameras was funded by the Australian Government’s Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, while the additional six cameras were installed through $60,000 in funding from the NSW Government’s Local Small Commitments Allocation Program.

Mayor Chris Cherry emphasized the value of these cameras, stating: “Being forewarned is being forearmed – knowing the road conditions during heavy rainfall is invaluable. These cameras allow residents to make informed decisions before heading out,

reducing anxiety during severe weather, especially for those affected by past foods.”

NSW Government spokesperson for the North Coast, Emily Suvaal MP, highlighted the importance of these cameras as the region approaches another potentially wet summer.

“This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s ongoing efforts to prepare communities like the Northern Rivers for future natural disasters.”

Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot MP added:

“Following the devastating 2022 foods, locals need up-to-date information when it rains heavily. These cameras deliver on the NSW Minns Labor Government’s 2023 election commitment.”

To view images from the food monitoring cameras, visit tweed. nsw.gov.au/foodmonitoring-cameras.

For updates on road conditions, visit the Council’s Roadworks and Closures page, Live Traffc NSW, or follow the Council on Facebook.

For emergency assistance during foods or storms, contact the NSW SES at 132 500 or visit ses.nsw.gov.au.

$60,000 Boost for Tweed Shire

Environmental Education Project

The Minns Labor Government has awarded Tweed Shire Council a $60,000 grant to support an innovative environmental education initiative.

The project, Cultivating Tomorrow: Empowering Tweed Shire Farmers through Regenerative Agribusiness Mastery, is funded through the NSW Environmental Trust’s Environmental Education Grants Program.

This project aims to

equip local farmers with advanced agribusiness skills to encourage the adoption of regenerative agricultural practices. Through specialised short courses, workshops, coaching, and farmer-led projects, Tweed Shire Council will help farmers overcome barriers to implementing sustainable farming techniques.

The Tweed Shire initiative is one of seven projects funded across the state, with a total of $980,538

allocated to various environmental education programs aimed at fostering skills and inspiring environmental stewardship.

Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn, praised the project, stating,

“This initiative to tackle barriers to sustainable farming will have lasting benefts for the Tweed region. I look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of this fantastic local project.”

Saffn also highlighted the importance of such

educational initiatives in transforming community knowledge and skills.

“By inspiring more people to become environmental stewards, we can ensure improved local environments that future generations will be able to enjoy,” she added.

For more information about the Environmental Education Grants Program and other funded projects, visit: NSW Environmental Trust.

Bundjalung rest area

Bundjalung rest area

IAN ROGERS

IAN ROGERS

The new food camera at Clothiers Creek Road overlooks a dip in the roadway where a feld drain often foods during wet weather, cutting the road.

Tourism to become $91 billion cornerstone of NSW economy

ROBERT HEYWARD

Millions of additional airline seats, tens of thousands of new hotel rooms, and a focus on experience-led tourism are set to transform New South Wales’ visitor economy into a $91 billion industry, according to a government review of the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy.

The Minns Government has outlined an ambitious new goal of reaching $91 billion in annual visitor expenditure by 2035, a 40% increase from the previous target. This accelerated growth is expected to deliver signifcant economic benefts, particularly for regional communities, with $44 billion—or 48%—of the projected total anticipated to be spent in regional NSW.

This growth trajectory will position tourism as a key pillar of the state’s future economy, potentially creating up to 150,000 new jobs by 2035.

Key drivers of this growth include an estimated increase of 8.5 million airline seats, thanks to the opening of Newcastle Airport’s international terminal in 2025, the Western Sydney International Airport in 2026,

expanded capacity at Sydney Airport, and cross-border arrivals through Canberra and Gold Coast airports.

The Minns Government is already taking steps to enhance aviation capacity, including supporting Turkish Airlines’ new route to Sydney and an agreement to help Newcastle Airport attract more international fights. This increased capacity is expected to boost competition, encourage more European visitors to choose NSW, and help reduce holiday costs for NSW families.

To meet the $91 billion stretch goal, the review highlights key challenges including:

• The need for 40,000 extra hotel rooms, a 41% increase on what’s currently available

• Signifcant worker and skills shortages in

roles such as tour guides and chefs

• Need for increased business event facilities in Sydney, Western Sydney and priority regional areas.

The review sets out a series of recommendations for achieving the stretch goal including:

• Prioritise the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy as a government-wide economic focus.

• Anchor the Visitor Economy Strategy around ‘experience tourism’

• Celebrate First Nations culture and businesses through authentic visitor experiences.

• Increase accommodation quality across regional NSW and quantity in Greater Sydney.

• Boost aviation capacity in key domestic

and international markets.

• Leverage leisure events to grow season al visitation and showcase NSW’s strengths.

• Dominate Australia’s business events sector.

• Capitalise on NSW’s status as being number one for international students.

• Foster a diverse, skilled visitor economy workforce.

The Minns Government is stepping up efforts to attract more business events, with an additional $1.5 million allocated to Business Events Sydney for the 2025 fnancial year.

Highlighting Sydney’s global appeal, the city was recently named the ‘Best City in the World’ in Condé Nast Traveller UK’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards. The poll praised Sydney’s unique indoor-outdoor lifestyle, perfectly aligning

with the review’s recommendation to focus the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy on experience-driven tourism.

As the largest visitor economy in Australia, NSW achieved a record $53 billion in expenditure for FY24 and employs nearly 300,000 workers.

The NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2030 originally set a target of $65 billion, and the current review of the strategy will guide the development of the new NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2035, set to be released in the coming months.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“From pristine beaches to lush national parks, NSW is an unbeatable hotspot for tourists across the globe.

“People coming to New South Wales for

a holiday is at an all time high, but this review shows there are opportunities to grow it even more, partially due to more airports opening and more fight routes being secured.

“We are ready to put our shoulder to the wheel and attract even more travellers to NSW, boosting local business and creating thousands of jobs.”

Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, and Minister for Jobs and Tourism

John Graham said:

“This is a very exciting moment for the NSW visitor economy. We’re taking a sector that is already very strong and raising our ambitions even higher.

“This review dares us to dream big, but it also outlines the hard work needed to meet the opportunity.

“To reach this ambitious new target we need to build more hotel rooms, attract and train more workers and create and market the experiences that connect visitors with the culture, nature and people of NSW.

“NSW has the nature, the culture and incredible experiences. We just need to match it with hard work and planning.”

Summit to Support Teachers, Leaders, and Researchers in Tackling School Improvement Challenges

teachers leaving the profession.

Greater collaboration between school leaders, teachers, and researchers is essential to overcoming the complex challenges currently facing the education system, according to a Southern Cross University expert.

Professor David Lynch, Director of TeachLab Research at SCU, highlighted the interconnected crises affecting the education sector on a national level. These include increasingly complex classroom environments, concerns about the preparedness of graduates, and unsustainable rates of

Professor Lynch also noted that the traditional methods of education delivery, much of which has remained unchanged for decades, are struggling to keep pace with rapid shifts in student needs, societal changes, and technological advancements.

To address these issues, teachers, school leaders, and education researchers will come together at the University’s Gold Coast Campus on Monday, October 21, to explore case studies and approaches that are successfully driving school improvement.

“Ironically, the

academic research on school improvement is too often done in isolation to people who are leading our schools and working in our classrooms,”

Professor David Lynch said. “The TeachLab philosophy – supported by evidence globally – is that the work needs to be done together.”

The summit Bridging the Gap: Collaborative Strategies for University/School Partnerships to Drive School Improvement will feature a range of presentations and workshops focused on active research partnerships in Queensland and New South Wales. RSVPs for the event are due by

Friday, October 11.

The summit will also include keynote addresses from education expert and author Amy Green, along with Professor Heidi Harju-Luukkainen, an adjunct researcher with TeachLab and visiting from the University of Jyväskylä in Finland.

Event organizer Dr. Aida Hurem expects the summit to draw signifcant interest from professionals in the education sector.

“The day will provide a balance between the latest research we have nationally and globally, and the work we see that’s producing results in classrooms in our own backyard,” she said.

“This is an ideal opportunity for anyone working in the education system who is interested in evidence-based school improvement, but not sure where to start.

“Through to people who are already well down that track, who want to test or extend their understanding, or to share their experience so far.”

Professor Lynch is lead author on the recently released book, ‘The Teaching Improvement Agenda – What Matters and How Teaching Excellence is Achieved’, which includes contributors from the UK and the US.

“The challenges we have in the education system here are not

unique to us – they are evident in many other parts of the world,”

Professor Lynch said.

“Equally, there is a consistency in the research about what’s working to address those challenges.

“It’s really gratifying for everyone on our team to bring the very best of that understanding into the conversations we are having locally, regionally and nationally.”

To register for the summit, visit the QR code below.

IAN ROGERS

LIAM JENNINGS

The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, the latest addition to Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series, was offcially unveiled on September 26, 2024, and became available for pre-order shortly thereafter.

This device is designed to offer fagship-level features at a more accessible price point, making it an attractive option for those seeking high performance without premium costs.

Key Features and Specifcations:

• Display: The Galaxy S24 FE features a 6.7inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals and responsive touch experiences.

• Processor: Powered by Samsung’s Exynos 2400e chipset, the device delivers robust performance suitable for demanding applications and gaming.

• Memory and Storage: It comes with 8GB of RAM and is available in 128GB and 256GB storage variants, providing ample space for apps, photos, and videos.

• Cameras:

o Rear Quad-Camera System:

• 50MP primary sensor for highresolution photos.

• 12MP ultrawide sensor for an expansive feld of view.

• 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom for distant subjects.

o Front Camera: 10MP sensor ideal for selfes and video calls.

• Battery: Equipped with a 4,700mAh battery, the phone supports 25W wired charging and 15W wireless charging, ensuring quick powerups and extended usage.

• AI Features: The Galaxy S24 FE introduces advanced AI capabilities, including enhanced photo editing tools and real-time language translation, leveraging Samsung’s Galaxy AI platform for a more intuitive user experience.

Pricing and Availability In Australia, the device starts at AU$1,099 for the standard 128GB version, with the 256GB model priced slightly higher. Availability may vary by region, with sales commencing in early October 2024.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE presents a compelling option for consumers seeking a balance between performance and affordability. With its high-end display, powerful processor, versatile camera system, and innovative AI features, it delivers a premium smartphone experience without the premium price tag.

LIAM JENNINGS

DJI, a company renowned for its cuttingedge drones and imaging technology, has unveiled the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro, a fagship action camera set to redefne the market. This powerful device is packed with advanced features, making it a top contender for adventurers, content creators, and videographers alike. From its high-end imaging capabilities to its rugged design, the Osmo Action 5 Pro offers a seamless experience for capturing moments in any environment. Advanced Imaging for Professional Quality

The Osmo Action 5 Pro stands out in the action camera market due to its superior imaging quality. It comes equipped with a 1/1.3-inch sensor, which allows for stunning 40MP photos and crisp 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. This level of detail is ideal for content creators who need high-resolution footage, whether they’re shooting fast-paced sports or capturing serene landscapes.

One of the standout features of the Osmo Action 5 Pro is its 13.5 stops of dynamic range, which ensures excellent performance even in low-light environments. This makes it a versatile choice for those who shoot in varying conditions, from bright daylight to dusk. Whether you’re flming a mountain hike at dawn or an underwater dive, this action camera adapts to your surroundings, capturing every detail with remarkable clarity.

Extended Battery Life for Longer Adventures

Another key improvement with the Osmo Action 5 Pro is its extended battery life. Thanks to a 4nm chip,

the camera optimizes power consumption, offering up to four hours of continuous recording under specifc conditions. This extended recording time means users can flm long sessions without worrying about recharging, a huge advantage for adventurers and flmmakers working in remote locations. For those who need a dependable camera that can handle long days of flming, this improvement in battery performance is a major selling point. Whether you’re capturing an entire day’s worth of surfng or an actionpacked skiing adventure, the Osmo Action 5 Pro has the endurance to keep up with you.

Dual OLED Touchscreens for Ease of Use

The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro features dual OLED touchscreens, with one on the front and one on the back. These highbrightness displays are designed for excellent visibility, even in bright outdoor conditions. The screens deliver vibrant colours, making it easier to compose shots and review footage on the go.

The front-facing screen is particularly useful for vloggers and content creators who often record themselves. This display allows for effortless framing without needing to guess whether you’re in the shot. The touchscreen functionality on both displays adds to the camera’s user-friendly interface, making navigation through settings and controls seamless.

Stabilization Technology for Smooth Footage

One of the most important aspects of any action camera is its ability to capture smooth footage, especially during high-intensity

activities. The Osmo Action 5 Pro excels in this area with its 360-degree horizon lock and advanced image stabilization technology. The horizon lock feature ensures that the camera keeps the horizon level, even when the camera itself rotates or tilts during dynamic movements. This is particularly valuable for capturing action sports like skateboarding or mountain biking, where the camera’s position often shifts rapidly.

Coupled with DJI’s improved stabilization technology, users can expect buttery-smooth footage, free from the shakes and bumps that typically come with high-energy flming.

Waterproof and Built for Adventure

The Osmo Action 5 Pro is designed to withstand the elements. Its waterproof design allows it to be submerged in water up to 20 meters without the need for additional housing, making it a perfect companion for underwater exploration.

Whether you’re snorkelling, diving, or capturing water sports, the camera’s rugged build ensures that it can handle extreme conditions.

Beyond its waterproof capabilities, the camera is durable enough to handle dust, dirt, and drops, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who push their gear to the limits. This robust design ensures the Osmo Action 5 Pro will keep performing no matter the environment.

Enhanced Audio Connectivity for HighQuality Sound

In addition to its impressive video capabilities, the Osmo Action 5 Pro also excels in audio connectivity. It’s compatible with DJI’s wireless microphones, such as the DJI Mic 2,

providing an easy way to capture high-quality sound in any situation. Whether you’re vlogging in a noisy environment or flming an outdoor adventure with ambient sound, this feature elevates your audio experience to match the camera’s visual prowess.

For content creators who prioritize clear, professional-quality audio alongside stunning video, the addition of wireless audio compatibility makes the Osmo Action 5 Pro a comprehensive tool for multimedia projects.

A Competitive Price for Premium Features

Despite its premium features, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is priced competitively. Starting at $5999, the camera offers excellent value for its feature set. This price point makes it an accessible option for both amateur adventurers and professional content creators looking for a versatile, highperformance action camera.

Conclusion The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is a standout in the action camera market, offering advanced imaging, superior stabilization, and extended battery life in a rugged, userfriendly package. With its dual OLED screens, waterproof design, and compatibility with wireless microphones, it’s a versatile tool that caters to a wide range of users—from casual vloggers to professional flmmakers.

Whether you’re looking to document your extreme sports adventures or create high-quality content on the go, the Osmo Action 5 Pro delivers the performance and features needed to capture stunning footage in any environment.

Foton, the renowned Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer, is making a return to the Australian market with two highly anticipated models, the Tunland V7 and Tunland V9.

These dual-cab utes are scheduled to launch in Australia in the frst half of 2025, marking the brand’s comeback after several years of absence.

The Australian importer, Inchcape, which also handles Subaru and Peugeot, will be responsible for distributing Foton vehicles. In July 2024, Inchcape confrmed the addition of Foton to its portfolio, alongside other upcoming ventures, including the Chinese electric vehicle brand, Deepal. However, prospective buyers of Foton utes will need to wait until 2025, as the Tunland V7 and V9 will make their debut early next year.

Tunland V7 and V9:

Design and Powertrain

Both the Tunland V7 and V9 share the same core mechanical setup but boast distinctive exterior

designs. The Tunland V7 is reminiscent of the Ford F-150, with bold, rugged styling, while the Tunland V9 offers a more refned look akin to the Ram 1500. Despite their design differences, both models share identical dimensions and capabilities under the hood.

In markets like South Africa, both utes are powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance, producing 120kW of power and 450Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring a smooth driving experience. In addition, certain markets, including China, offer high-output petrol engines capable of generating up to 284kW, and Foton is reportedly developing a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant as part of their expanding electrifed lineup.

Performance and Capabilities

Both the Tunland V7 and V9 are equipped with double wishbone suspension at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, providing

interiors. Both models come standard with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a large 14.6-inch

Foton Set to Reintroduce Tunland V7 and V9 Utes to Australia in 2025

excellent handling and ride comfort, especially on rough terrain. They are designed for serious work, with a towing capacity of up to 3500kg braked, making them highly capable for both recreational and commercial use. The utes ride on 18-inch wheels ftted with robust 265/70 profle all-terrain tyres, ensuring off-road competence.

The vehicles come in two wheelbase options. The standard wheelbase model measures 5517mm in length, while the extended wheelbase version stretches to 5797mm. Both utes measure 2000mm wide and 1905mm tall in their standard form, making them comparable in size to popular models like the Ford Ranger Wildtrak, which has a length of 5370mm and a width of 1918mm.

Interior and Technology

Inside the cabin, Foton’s dual-cab utes feature modern, tech-forward

infotainment system offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The seats are designed with comfort and durability in mind, featuring racing-style designs, heating and ventilation, and 12-way power adjustment for the driver. Additionally, the utes come equipped with automatic climate control to ensure comfort in all conditions.

Safety Features

Foton places a strong emphasis on safety, equipping both the Tunland V7 and V9 with a robust suite of safety technologies.

Standard features include six airbags, traction control, and stability systems. Both utes also incorporate advanced driver-assistance technologies, with a Level 2.5 autonomous driving system, which

provides features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automated emergency braking, all aimed at enhancing driver and passenger safety.

Market Outlook and Electrifed Future

Inchcape has hinted that Foton’s Australian lineup will not be limited to traditional internal combustion engines. The company has expressed interest in bringing electrifed powertrains, including hybrid and possibly all-electric options, to the Australian market in the future. This aligns with Foton’s global strategy of expanding its electric and hybrid vehicle offerings.

Foton’s return to Australia also signals the frst time the brand’s utes will be available in local showrooms since 2019.

The original Tunland model was withdrawn from the market due to emissions regulations, but the brand has since made signifcant advancements. The newly reintroduced models are expected to meet Australian emissions standards and

deliver a more refned driving experience. A New Era for Foton in Australia

The reintroduction of the Foton Tunland V7 and V9 comes at a time when the demand for reliable, versatile utes is on the rise in Australia. Inchcape’s announcement marks a renewed commitment to offering high-quality, affordable vehicles in the competitive dual-cab ute segment.

Further details, including pricing and specifcations, will be announced by Inchcape closer to the 2025 launch. However, with Foton’s track record in other right-hand drive markets and the enhanced features of the Tunland V7 and V9, the brand is poised to make a strong impact on the Australian market once again.

Foton’s utes will be welcomed back into Australian showrooms, offering a combination of rugged performance, advanced technology, and competitive pricing—making them a compelling option for both commercial and recreational users.

2025 Kia Tasman Ute Reveal Date Confrmed

Kia has offcially confrmed that its highly anticipated 2025 Tasman ute will be unveiled on 29 October at the Jeddah Motor Show in Saudi Arabia, ahead of its Australian launch in the frst half of 2025. The global reveal will be live-streamed on the Kia Worldwide YouTube channel at 6:00pm Sydney and Melbourne time.

In the lead-up to its debut, Kia has released a fnal teaser video showcasing glimpses of the Tasman in a dark environment, revealing features such as an embossed Kia logo on the tailgate, a wide Tasman badge, and the brand's 'Opposites United' design language in its LED tail-light signature. Customer Deliveries and Key Markets Deliveries of the Tasman will begin in Australia, the Middle East, South Africa, and South Korea in the frst half of 2025. Australia is considered one of the most critical markets for the Tasman, with much of the vehicle’s development

and testing taking place there.

Testing and Performance

Kia has subjected the Tasman to extensive testing, conducting 1777

specifc tests over more than 18,000 rounds of evaluation. These tests covered payload and towing capabilities in the United States, wading depth testing in Korea, and off-road trials on bush tracks in Victoria and the ACT. Under the bonnet, the Tasman is expected to feature a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, similar to the one in the Sorento SUV and Carnival people mover, producing 148kW

and 440Nm. However, Kia hasn’t ruled out a power increase to allow the Tasman to compete with class benchmarks like the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux, and Mitsubishi Triton, which offer around 150kW and 500Nm.

The Kia Tasman is expected to arrive in Australian showrooms by mid-2025, offering a new option in the competitive ute segment.

JEFF GIBBS

JEFF GIBBS

Mixed Reactions Emerge as Proposed Debit Card Surcharge Crackdown Faces Enforcement Challenges

The proposed debit card surcharge “crackdown” in Australia has sparked a range of reactions from various stakeholders, including customers, small businesses, and major banks.

1. Customers: Many consumers welcome the crackdown, as they often find surcharges on debit card transactions frustrating, especially since debit card payments typically cost merchants less to process than credit card payments. Customers generally feel that surcharges are unfair and add unexpected costs to their purchases. The proposal is seen as a positive move toward transparency and fairness in pricing, helping consumers avoid hidden fees.

2. Small Businesses: The reaction from small business owners has been mixed. On one hand, some support the crackdown as it could create more trust with customers by eliminating extra fees, thus improving the overall customer experience. On the other hand, many small business owners express concern that they may struggle to absorb the costs of processing fees, which they currently offset with surcharges. These businesses argue that they are already operating on thin

margins, and if they can’t pass on the fees, they might have to raise prices, which could hurt their competitiveness.

3. Big Banks: Major banks have also reacted cautiously to the proposed changes. Some banks support the move as it aligns with ongoing efforts to reduce costs for consumers. However, others worry that the crackdown could reduce the revenue they earn from transaction fees. Additionally, some banks may have concerns about potential disruptions to existing business models and the impact on their relationships with merchant partners.

Overall, the debate centres on the balance between consumer protection and the financial realities of businesses, with varying perspectives on the potential benefits and drawbacks of the proposed measures. The outcome will likely depend on how the government implements and enforces the changes, ensuring that businesses and consumers are treated fairly without imposing undue burdens.

The proposed crackdown on debit card surcharges in Australia would likely be enforced through a combination of government regulations, oversight by relevant authorities, and penalties for non-compliance.

While specific details of

enforcement are yet to be fully clarified, here’s a general outline of how it could work based on similar regulations:

1. Government Regulation:

processing.

2. Monitoring and Oversight by Authorities:

• The Australian government, possibly through the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), would set clear guidelines on what constitutes an acceptable surcharge. These rules would likely limit surcharges to reflect the actual costs of processing debit card transactions.

Big banks are also cautious, as the changes could reduce their transaction fee revenues

• The ACCC or another designated body would be responsible for monitoring compliance with the rules. They would have the authority to investigate complaints from consumers or businesses and carry out regular audits of merchant practices to ensure compliance.

• Public reporting mechanisms could be encouraged, allowing consumers to report businesses they believe are overcharging for debit card transactions.

• The regulations could outline the maximum allowable surcharge, as already done with credit card payments in Australia, ensuring businesses do not charge excessive fees beyond the cost of

3. Penalties for NonCompliance:

• Businesses that fail to comply with the new rules could face penalties. In previous cases involving excessive surcharges on credit cards, the ACCC

has issued fines to companies that exceeded the regulated surcharge limits. This enforcement strategy would likely extend to debit card surcharges.

• Penalties could include fines, legal action, or even compensation orders for affected customers. The amount of the fines would depend on the severity of the breach, whether it was a repeat offense, and the size of the business.

4. Public Awareness Campaigns:

• Part of the enforcement could also involve a public awareness campaign to educate both businesses and consumers about the new regulations. This would help ensure that businesses understand the rules and consumers are aware of their rights, leading to greater overall compliance.

5. Merchant Education and Warnings:

• For smaller

businesses, there may be an initial focus on education and warnings before fines are issued. This could include providing businesses with guidance on how to calculate fair surcharges and implementing compliance programs.

6. Technological Enforcement:

• Payment processing companies and banks may be required to provide tools or software that automatically calculate and enforce compliant surcharges at the point of sale. This would make it easier for businesses to comply without manually calculating the fees. By combining clear regulation, active oversight, penalties for violations, and education efforts, the government would aim to ensure that debit card surcharges are fair and transparent, benefiting both consumers and businesses.

JEFF GIBBS

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

The second tranche of the Minns Labor Government’s Vibrancy Reforms aims to boost nightlife and live music culture across New South Wales by cutting red tape and supporting local venues and entertainment zones. This initiative, introduced to Parliament, is designed to make communities as vibrant after dark as they are during the day, supporting the government’s broader strategy of building more homes and enhancing quality of life for residents.

Key Reforms Include:

• Removing restrictive “no entertainment”

clauses from licensed venues and eliminating limits on music genres or the number of performers.

• Mandating property buyers be notifed when moving into entertainment zones to protect the integrity of Special Entertainment Precincts (SEPs) and reduce venue-neighbour conficts.

• Ending outdated rules requiring residents within fve kilometres of a registered club to become members before entry.

• Lifting outdoor dining restrictions that prevented patrons from standing while drinking.

• Amending the Major Events Act to facilitate

smoother operations for key cultural events like Sydney Festival and Vivid Sydney.

• Empowering the Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy to refer disputes from live music venues to mediation.

A cornerstone of these reforms is the expansion of SEPs, with councils empowered to balance community needs while encouraging vibrant entertainment precincts.

New buyers will

receive clear “eyes wide open” documentation that highlights the entertainment zone status of their properties, reducing future disputes.

To support the establishment of SEPs, a $1 million grant program will open later this year, helping councils hire strategic planners and consultants to manage sound standards, acoustic frameworks, and community engagement.

Recent Successes: The frst round of reforms

Mark Divola has blessed countless venues across Australia with his multigenre vocal abilities. Ed Sheeran and John Mayer are a couple of names

that best describe what Mark does at a live gig –guitars, loop and effects pedals and a crystal clear voice.

saw improvements in outdoor dining rules, noise complaint handling, and streamlined event approvals. Licensed venues offering live music benefted from extended trading hours and reduced liquor fees, while SEP expansions helped reshape community nightlife by adjusting noise and opening-hour regulations.

Offcial Comments:

• NSW Premier Chris Minns emphasized that building homes is a priority, but so is fostering vibrant communities with rich entertainment offerings.

• Minister for Music and the Night-time

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Thursday 24th Oct @5pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: Free

Economy John Graham highlighted the importance of cutting red tape and rebuilding NSW nightlife, stating the reforms will help councils use the SEP model to create thriving entertainment zones.

• Minister for Liquor and Gaming David Harris confrmed that changes to liquor licensing and extended trading will encourage live music and performance culture across NSW. The reforms aim to reignite NSW’s nightlife while ensuring safety and community cohesion, creating spaces where culture, art, and entertainment can fourish.

ROBERT HEYWARD

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 ACICULAR

(a) Souring (b) Slender and sharp-pointed (c) Listless

2 FRUCTUATE

(a) To come to fruit (b) To wrinkle (c) To drink to excess

3 HESTERNAL (a) Irregular (b) Of different origin (c) Of yesterday

4 TRANSLUCENT

(a) Shining through (b) Of short duration (c) Leaping or passing across

5 WARRIGAL

(a) A wizard

(b) The dingo (c) A maze of narrow passages

Corporate Accommodation

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 Which of the following countries is not located on the Arabian Peninsula? (a) Djibouti (b) Qatar (c) Bahrain (d) Yemen

2 Wunda is a large crater on the surface of which moon of Uranus?

(a) Puck (b) Umbriel (c) Miranda (d) Ariel

3 Which city would you be in if you were playing tennis at the Memorial Drive Park tennis centre?

(a) Adelaide (b) Perth (c) Hobart (d) Brisbane

4 A nutmeg pod is depicted on the flag of which country? (a) Madagascar (b) Grenada (c) Sri Lanka (d) Nauru

5 Which actor provides the voice for Moe Szyslak, Apu Nahasapeemapetilon and Chief Wiggum in the TV series, The Simpsons? (a) Christian Bale (b) Morgan Freeman (c) Ed Harris (d) Hank Azaria

6 What name is given to a bottle that holds six litres? (a) Methuselah (b) Salmanazar (c) Balthazar (d) Nebuchadnezzar

ALFAKODO

BYRON BAY FLOORSANDING 0408 536 565

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

GROWING HOME WITH JAMIE DURIE

SEVEN, 8.30pm

Jamie Durie certainly has his hands full: not only is he researching, designing and building the most environmentally friendly home possible and lming the process, but he’s also running his own business, planning a wedding to his partner, singer-songwriter Ameka Jane, while the couple await the birth of their second child. The former Backyard Blitz presenter returns to Aussie TV with this informative and innovative project that also gives viewers a behind-thescenes peek at his home life. Durie’s lifelong passion for sustainability informs every aspect of his dream home, from geothermal heating and cooling to protecting his block’s native gum trees. Growing Home is a breath of fresh air.

FRIDAY, October 25

SUNDAY

THE VOICE

SEVEN, 7pm

More than 80 talented artists tried to make the coaches turn their big red chairs this year, but there’s just four left for this jam-packed grand nale featuring a performance by former coach Keith Urban. Guy Sebastian, Adam Lambert, LeAnn Rimes and Kate Miller-Heidke have had their say on who stays “in the competition so far, but tonight, the winner is up to the voting public. Singer-songwriter SKŸE, shrinkingviolet-turnedsuperstar Jaedyn, 16-year-old powerhouse Annie and soulful FIFO worker Reuben have two nal chances to impress – a solo performance and a duet with their coach. Who can go note-for-note with a bona star and ultimately claim the $100,000 prize?

THURSDAY GOING PLACES WITH ERNIE DINGO

SBS, 7.30pm

The path less travelled is where nd Ernie Dingo these days. In the sixth season of this easygoing travel series, the Australian icon

uncovers

hidden gems – both people and places. With his signature easygoing approach and laid-back interview style, it’s easy to feel like you’re right there with him. This time, Mystery Road: Origin star Mark Coles Smith joins Dingo, Aaron Fa’Aoso, Bianca Hunt and Rae Johnston as they seek out local legends and surprising stories in some of the country’s most stunning locations. Tonight, Dingo searches for the biggest sh in the sea at Ningaloo Reef, Johnston meets a folk duo in regional Victoria and Coles Smith steps back in time in Kalgoorlie.

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

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 11.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Miniseries: Nolly. (Ml, R) 1.45 Plum. (Madls, R) 2.50 Makers Of Modern Australia. (Final, PGa, R) 3.50 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.40 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10 For The Love Of Dogs. (PG, R) 10.10 Home Is Where The Art Is. (PG, R) 11.05 Icons. (Malv, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.05 Discovering Film: Maggie Smith. (PG) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Luke Nguyen’s India. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Costa Georgiadis tours a rhododendron garden.

8.30 Miniseries: Nolly. (Ml) Part 2 of 3. With exit day looming, Nolly is desperate to know how she will be killed o from Crossroads

9.15 Fisk. (Ml, R) When Ray breaks the networking group rules by dating a member, Helen has to pitch herself as his replacement.

9.45 Question Everything. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson and Jan Fran.

10.20 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

10.50 ABC Late News.

11.05 The Larkins. (PG, R)

12.45 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Lost Treasures Of Ancient Rome. (PGav)

8.25 Castle Secrets. (Mav) Takes a look at castles.

9.20 Rise Of The Nazis: The Downfall. (Mav, R) 10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 The Allegation. (MA15+a) 12.20 The Wall: Cover Your Tracks. (Mav, R) 3.40 Paddington Station 24/7. (MA15+l, R)

4.30 Peer To Peer. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 P rates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 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. 10.55 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6am WorldWatch. 10.00

Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Sinister Sorority. (Madv) 2.00 Catch Phrase. (PG, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R)

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Colin Fassnidge shows how to make a pizza base.

8.30 Growing Home With Jamie Durie: The Mission. (Premiere, PGl) Follows landscape designer Jamie Durie and his young family as they build their eco-friendly dream home.

9.30 Body In The Snow: The Murder Of Joanna Yeates. (Mav, R) Part 1 of 2. Examines the murder of landscape architect Joanna Yeates and the hunt for her killer.

12.00 GetOn Extra.

12.30 Taken. (Mav, R)

2.30 Home Shopping.

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

7TWO (62)

The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Have I Got News For You U.S. 2.20 Tiny Beautiful Things. 2.55 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista. 3.05 WorldWatch. 5.05 Monty Python’s Best Bits (Mostly) 5.40 The Casketeers. (Final) 6.10 Secret World Of Las Vegas. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey. 9.35 Booze, Bets And Sex That Built America. 11.05 The Doll Factory. Midnight Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 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 DVine Living. 3.30 Left O The Map. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Paci c. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III: Ocean. (PG, R) Narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

8.40 MOVIE: Olympus Has Fallen. (2013, MA15+lv, R) After the White House is taken over by terrorists, a former secret service agent must save the president. Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman.

11.00 Race To The Melbourne Cup Carnival.

11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

12.40 Pointless. (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)

9GEM (82)

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

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

7.30 Sort Your Life Out. (PGa) Stacey Solomon and her team help a nurse and her husband transform their family home through a life-changing declutter.

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 To Be Advised.

10.45 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.10 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

(51)

3.30 Diagnosis Murder. 5.30 JAG. 7.30 NCIS. 10.20 FBI. 12.15am Home Shopping. 2.15 Diagnosis Murder. 4.05 JAG. 6am Danger Man. 7.00 Cre o Dollar Ministries.

9GO! (83) 6am Lara. Continued. (2019, PG, German) 7.45 Capricorn One. (1977, PG) 10.00 Kin. (2018, M) 11.55 L.A. Story. (1991, M) 1.45pm Phil Tippett: Mad Dreams And Monsters. (2019, PG) 3.20 Ride On. (2023, PG, Mandarin) 5.35 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 7.30 The Fifth Element. (1997, PG) 9.50 Bliss. (2021, M) 11.45 Speak No Evil. (2022, MA15+) 1.35am Bright Young Things. (2003, MA15+) 3.35 Transcendence. (2014, M) 5.45 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG)

6am Children’s Programs. Noon Gossip Girl. 2.00 La Brea. 3.00 The Golden Girls. 3.30 The Nanny. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: A Simple Favour. (2018, M) 9.50 MOVIE: Masterminds. (2016, M) 11.40 The O.C. 12.35am Love Island UK. 1.30 The Nanny. 2.30 Sur ng Australia TV. 3.00 Bakugan:

(52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 11.55 Blunt Talk. (Final) 12.20pm My Family. 12.55 Breeders. (Final) 1.20 Penn & Teller:

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

Enjoy good times in the Brisbane

TARGET TIME

W D A

B S I

R

T N

Today’s target: 16 words average 22 words good 34+ 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

There’s the potential for explosive Sun-Pluto power struggles on Tuesday and Wednesday (with an authority figure, work colleague or loved one). So calm down, Rams, and try to communicate with extra care and diplomacy, otherwise you could overreact and do or say something you later regret. Friday looks rather fabulous, as the lovely Mars/ Uranus link highlights your adventurous Aries nature. Time to express, explore, experiment and enthuse!

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Are your dreams achievable? Are you being realistic about a project that’s due to be completed? Perhaps you need to be more proactive, get others on board and learn to delegate? If you think creatively, work hard and capitalise on your group connections, then you’ll eventually taste success. Communication is emphasised, so expect plenty of phone calls, texts, tweets and emails. But avoid getting drawn into an argument about work, religion or politics.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

On Tuesday there’s a terrific trine between Saturn and your patron planet, Mercury. So it’s a great week for mental focus, long-term planning and clever problem-solving, especially at work. But tread carefully with a temperamental friend or family member who wants things done their way – and may not be prepared to compromise. Joint finances could also be a point of contention. On Friday, do something adventurous that makes your heart sing!

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

When it comes to a relationship issue, are you desperately trying to fix a frustrating situation? Prepare for some resistance from other people (especially your partner or a family member). Quick fixes won’t work. You need to slow down and think things through in a realistic and responsible fashion. However, when it comes to a personal project or a group endeavour, being proactive and adventurous will work in your favour. Strike while the iron is hot!

There’s a challenging connection between Pluto and the Sun, so try to avoid family squabbles, online arguments and run-ins with authority figures. If you are the person in charge, then resist the urge to be bossy and overbearing. Behaving like a demanding Diva will get you nowhere fast!

Strive to be extra patient …which is not one of your natural virtues. For some proactive Cats, Mars and Uranus shake things up and take you in a new direction at work.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Expect an eventful week, as the Sun/Pluto square stirs up trouble. A double dose of diplomacy is required if you want to keep the peace. The focus is on long-term relationships. How to nurture them, keep them … and then let them go if you have outgrown each other. Enjoyable mutual interests are essential to satisfying romantic and platonic relationships. A close friend could also be the final piece of the puzzle as you follow your true destiny.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Venus (your patron planet) is visiting your communication zone, which highlights flirtatious encounters, romantic adventures and long-term friendships. But – courtesy of the Sun/Pluto square – possessiveness and jealousy could rear their ugly heads. So slap on a diplomatic smile and share the love around. As actress/writer (and Libran birthday great) Carrie Fisher observed: “Everything is negotiable. Whether or not the negotiation is easy is another thing.”

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

The Sun squares powerful Pluto (your boss planet) and then transits into Scorpio, which boosts your temperamental streak and your control-freak tendencies. You could feel like you’re stuck in a self-sabotaging rut or even going backwards. You’ll find the more stubborn you are, the more challenging the week will be. As comedian (and birthday great) John Cleese reminds us: “You don’t have to be the Dalai Lama to tell people that life’s about change.”

On Tuesday, take the time to listen to what a housemate or relative is really saying, but don’t let finances come between you and a friend. Do you enjoy your job and does it stimulate your mind? Take the time to re-evaluate a professional matter (or a volunteer position) as Mars and Uranus stimulate your work sector. It’s also a great time to be more adventurous physically, as you get active in the great outdoors via biking, hiking, bushwalking or camping.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

This week Pluto pushes your insecurity buttons, which could activate your protective Capricorn shield. But the more defensive – and resistant to change – you are, the more exhausted you’ll feel. And the more difficult the week will be. Try to get the balance right between maintaining the status quo (with things that are working) and changing the aspects of your life that aren’t functioning well. A close relationship certainly needs to be reviewed and renewed.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

With the Sun (creativity) and Mercury (communication) both transiting through your career zone, it will be easier to sort out workplace problems than at other times, especially if you articulate your thoughts and are prepared to compromise. A stressed friend or colleague is hoping you can provide some astute advice and a helping hand. Friday’s proactive Mars/Uranus link is fabulous for sorting out a work problem or motivating a family matter.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Someone may pressure you to reveal information that was given to you in confidence. Hence your current moral and philosophical conundrum as you ponder: ‘Is honesty always the best policy’?

With the Sun, Mercury and Uranus all activating your travel zone, adventure and faraway places beckon, so start planning your itinerary now. It’s also important to keep up to date with your international contacts. Who knows where they will eventually lead?

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

Returning from USA to Australia for select dates ‘Hometown’ Australian Tour 2024

RICK PRICE LIVE AT SANCTUS BREWING CO. TOWNSEND (via Maclean) SAT OCT 26TH.

With Special Guest MAK & SHAR.

Doors open 6pm and entertainment starts at 7pm. ‘Hometown’ is the 12th studio album from singer songwriter Rick Price. It is Price’s frst studio album of original material since ‘Tennessee Sky’ released in 2015.

Recorded featuring some of Nashville’s USA fnest musicians, Dennis Crouch on bass, Fred Eltringham on drums, Tom Bukovac on guitar and Jimmy Wallace on organ, the album takes you on a journey of Rick’s childhood to present day life in the USA.

“Hometown” is steeped in country, rhythm and blues, though the everpresent pop infuence of Price’s songwriting still rings through. From

soul stirring ballads to smokey deep groves, these songs will leave you uplifted and hitting repeat over and over again.

Rick will be performing tracks from his new album ‘Hometown’ including ‘You Can’t Keep A Good Man Down’ and ‘Let It Go’ along with his classic hits - ‘Heaven Knows’, ‘Not a Day Goes By’, ‘Walk Away Renee’ and ‘River of Love.’

‘I love playing live and connecting with my audience...I’m so excited to be coming to Australia to share some new songs and old favourites with my friends.”

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 26th Oct @6pm

• Where: Sanctus Brewing Co, Townsend

• Price: $39

• Tickets: Via the QR code

Australian pop superstars, Sheppard, are returning to Australia to celebrate with their fans following the recent ARIA #1 success of their 4th studio album ZORA.

It will be the frst chance for Sheppard’s most dedicated fans to hear the music from their inspirational new album played live.

The band shares, “We knew that fans back here at home have been

waiting for us to return from Nashville to tour again. There is no better feeling than being onstage here in Australia and watching our fans turn the show into a massive party”.

The ZORA Australian Tour will include stops in Sydney, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Kiama on the NSW South Coast.

Sheppard have asked their friend and multi-

platinum dance music artist, Jolyon Petch to open at all their headline shows. The superstar ARIA Award nominated Producer and DJ has had an incredible eleven #1 singles on the ARIA Club Charts which includes his house rework of the iconic Fleetwood Mac single ‘Dreams feat. Reigan’. Licensed All Ages - Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult, parent or guardian.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 26th Oct @7pm

• Where: Kingscliff Beach Hotel

• Price: From $66.25

• Tickets: Via the QR code

Join us for an exclusive morning tea and guided tour of the Tweed Regional Gallery. Join us for morning tea and an exclusive tour of the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre, a recreation of Olley’s famous home studio. Hear from the Curator, Ingrid Hedgcock, about the renowned Centre and discover its hidden details.

We hope you can come along for a visit to this important regional arts centre, which has a special UQ connection: The Right Honourable

John Douglas Anthony AC PC CH, a UQ alum (Diploma of Agriculture ’84) and his wife, Margot, generously donated the land from their farm to the Gallery 21 years ago.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Sunday 27th Oct @9:30am

• Where: Tweed Regional Gallery

• Price: $54.26

• Tickets: Via the QR code

Floodlights are back on the road in October for the ‘Can You Feel It’ Australian Tour.

After selling out all of their headline shows so far this year, the band will embark on a tour of Australia’s east coast before heading back to Europe in November.

This includes their biggest venues to date in Melbourne (Northcote Theatre) and Sydney (Crowbar).

Floodlights’ live performance is raw and intimate, intertwined with powerful outbursts and marching rhythms. Evocative lyricism lies at the heart of their songwriting and is enhanced by their unique sound. They explore themes of personal turbulence, national identity and the Australian landscape as a form of escapism.

Floodlights write honestly and poetically in the hope that it resonates with others. Gaining global attention with 2019’s sold-out EP ‘Backyard’ and 2020’s critically acclaimed debut album ‘From a View’, Floodlights went on to play sold-out shows and festivals across Australia. Amongst this they supported Pavement (USA) and black midi (UK).

Their debut international trip soon followed for SXSW in Austin, Texas. In April 2023,

Floodlights released their second studio album ‘Painting of My Time’, showcasing a natural progression and evolution as a band and individuals - It is a culmination of all that they experience inside and out of the group. Finalist for the Australian Music Prize, the record obtained national recognition. Floodlights played to countless devoted crowds while touring Australia, Europe and the UK for the better half of 2023. Back on home soil, they fnished off the year with a truly

triumphant performance at Meredith Music Festival.

Floodlights went on to perform at Laneway Festival, as well as Panama Festival to begin 2024 before sinking their teeth into further writing and recording.

The tour will be celebrating the turning of a page - a new way, a new road. Can You Feel It?

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday 25th Oct @7:30pm

• Where: Bangalow Bowlo

• Tickets: Via the QR code

Nestled in the outback of New South Wales, Lightning Ridge is a town like no other.

Known as the opal capital of the world, this unique destination is famous for its stunning black opals, quirky characters, and rich history. But there’s more to Lightning Ridge than just opals. It’s a place that offers visitors an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a gemstone enthusiast or a curious traveller, Lightning Ridge is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

The Opal Capital of the World Lightning Ridge owes much of its fame to the discovery of black opals, a gemstone so rare

and vibrant that it has become the pride of the region. Black opals are known for their striking, iridescent colours that shift and change with the light, making them some of the most coveted gemstones in the world. For those interested in the fascinating world of opals, a visit to the town’s many opal mines and museums is a must.

The Australian Opal Centre is a treasure trove of knowledge, where visitors can learn about the history and geology of opal mining. You can also try your luck fossicking for your own opals at one of the many public noodling areas.

Guided tours of the opal felds offer a behind-thescenes look at the mining process, where you can meet local miners and hear their stories of striking it rich—or not.

Exploring the Outback

While opals are the main attraction, Lightning Ridge’s rugged outback landscape is equally compelling. The town is surrounded by striking desert scenery, where endless red plains stretch beneath the vast blue sky. For nature lovers and adventure seekers, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

One of the best ways to experience the outback is by taking a dip in the famous Lightning Ridge Bore Baths. These natural hot springs are a soothing 40-50°C year-round, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The bore baths are said to have healing properties, and sitting in the warm waters under a star-flled outback sky is a truly

magical experience.

For those who prefer to stay dry, a scenic drive around the town’s self-guided Car Door Tours is a quirky way to explore Lightning Ridge. The tours, marked by painted car doors along the roadside, take you to some of the area’s most interesting sites, including old mines, art installations, and even eccentric homes carved into the ground.

A Town of Characters Lightning Ridge is as much about its people as it is about its opals. The town is known for its eclectic mix of residents—miners, artists, and free spirits—who have been drawn to this remote part of the world by the allure of opals and the freedom of the outback lifestyle. Their stories and personalities have

helped shape the Ridge’s unique culture.

One of the most famous local attractions is Amigo’s Castle, a quirky stone structure built by a local miner named Vittorio Stefanato (known as “Amigo”).

Without any formal architectural training, Amigo spent decades building his castle by hand, a testament to the creativity and eccentricity that defnes Lightning Ridge.

Then there’s the John Murray Art Gallery, showcasing the work of local artist John Murray. His vibrant, humorous paintings capture the essence of outback life and the spirit of the people who call it home. A visit to the gallery offers a different perspective on the Ridge, one that highlights the humour and resilience of

this tough yet welcoming community.

Final Thoughts Lightning Ridge is more than just a mining town—it’s a place where history, culture, and nature converge in the heart of the Australian outback. Whether you’re fossicking for opals, soaking in the bore baths, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Lightning Ridge promises a travel experience unlike any other. Its unique blend of natural beauty, quirky charm, and fascinating history make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true outback adventure.

So, if you’re planning your next trip, why not venture off the beaten path and discover the magic and mystery of Lightning Ridge? It’s a journey you won’t forget.

LIAM JENNINGS

NSW Government Cracks Down on Private Health Insurer "Hospital Bed Rorts"

ROBERT HEYWARD

The NSW Government is reintroducing legislation to ensure that Australia’s major health insurers— HCF, NIB, Bupa, and Medibank—pay their fair share when using public hospitals, after failed negotiations spanning four months. This move follows insurers’ refusal to pay the correct rate for single-room hospital beds, costing the public health system nearly $140 million per year.

In the last fnancial year, the gazetted single room rate was set at $892 per night. However, insurers are paying far less:

• HCF: Paying $463, costing NSW Health $40.5 million annually.

• NIB: Paying $491, costing $17.6 million annually.

• Bupa: Paying $501, costing $35.8 million annually.

• Medibank: Paying $515, costing $33.4 million annually. Profts in the private

health insurance industry have soared, with a 110% increase in profts to $2.2 billion in 2022-23. Meanwhile, the percentage of premiums returned to customers has dropped from 88.03% in 2019-20

to 82.61% in 2022-23. Although 44 out of 53 insurers are now paying the correct rate after discussions with the NSW Government, the four largest insurers— representing 74% of the market—continue to underpay.

The NSW Government highlights that the unpaid amounts could be used to hire 1,000 additional nurses, build a new rural hospital, or reduce the elective surgery waitlist. Treasurer Daniel Mookhey emphasized the importance of enforcing this longstanding arrangement, frst demanded by thenTreasurer Mike Baird in 2013.

“My door remains open for insurers to do the

right thing,” Mookhey stated, urging the companies to pay their bills. Minister for Health Ryan Park added, “Every dollar being ripped out of the public health system by private insurers is a dollar that could go to patient care, new hospitals, and hospital staff.”

The government will continue to work with those insurers who are paying the correct rate and will enforce compliance with those who do not.

Shining a Light on Young Carers During National Carers Week

ROBERT HEYWARD

National Carers Week 2024 is highlighting the incredible contributions made by carers across Australia, with a particular focus on young carers who manage caregiving responsibilities alongside school, part-time jobs, and their social lives. Carers provide unpaid care and support to family members who are frail aged, living with a disability, mental health condition, chronic illness, or other dependencies.

In NSW, there are over 958,500 carers, including 131,400 young people under 25 who face both the physical

and mental health challenges associated with caregiving.

One initiative making a difference is the Little Dreamers Journey project, which has supported nearly 100 young carers on the NSW North Coast since its launch in March 2023. Funded with $451,266 from the NSW Government’s ‘Our Region, Our Voice’ Regional Youth Investment Program, the project offers recreational and respite programs for young carers aged 10 to 25. These programs include peer support, tutoring, and school holiday activities, helping young carers build social connections and take breaks from

their caregiving responsibilities.

Julia Ryan, Director for Regional Youth at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, emphasized the impact of the project.

“The Little Dreamers Journey project is creating a supportive community for young carers, addressing their unique challenges and helping them balance caregiving with personal growth,” she said.

Founder and CEO of Little Dreamers, Madeleine Buchner OAM, stressed the importance of supporting young carers, particularly in regional areas.

“With an 8% increase in young carers

nationwide, these young people often sacrifce their childhoods to provide care, facing signifcant disadvantages in the process,” Buchner said.

Charlotte, 12, who helps care for her brother with autism, ADHD, and anxiety, shared how the program has transformed her experience.

“Before Little Dreamers, I felt misunderstood. Now, I’ve made friends who understand the same struggles, and I fnally feel a sense of belonging,” Charlotte said.

For more information on Little Dreamers, visit www. littledreamers.org.au.

Cancer care receives high praise from patients in Northern NSW Local Health District

People receiving cancer treatment across Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback for the care they received in the latest Bureau of Health Information’s (BHI) Outpatient Cancer Clinics Survey. More than 8,000 patients from across the state provided feedback with almost all (99 per cent) rating their overall care as ‘very good’ or ‘good’. This result has been consistently high since 2019 for NSW and is an improvement from last year.

Key feedback received from people accessing cancer care in Northern NSW Local Health District include:

• 99 per cent of patients rated their overall care as ‘very good’ or ‘good’

• 99 per cent of patients rated the health professionals who treated them as ‘very good’ or

‘good’

• 95 per cent said they ‘defnitely’ received safe, high quality care from the clinic

• 97 per cent agreed that the health professionals were kind and caring

• 95 per cent agreed that reception staff were polite and welcoming

Overall, NNSWLHD results showed signifcant improvements across three measures compared to the 2023 survey, while individual clinic sites Grafton, Lismore and Tweed all recorded between 3 and 9 measures that were signifcantly improved compared to 2023.

NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey said it’s encouraging to hear such positive feedback, with the District’s cancer teams committed to providing supportive care to people living with cancer.

“Our teams are focussed on providing a caring

and compassionate experience for patients and their loved ones attending our cancer clinics,” Ms Maisey said.

“It’s wonderful to know that patients are feeling supported during their care, and that they are treated with the dignity and kindness they deserve.

“With the new Integrated Cancer Care Service now at the Tweed Valley Hospital, we look forward to

continuing to provide excellent care in the new setting, and delivering expanded services such as radiotherapy closer to home for more patients.”

Professor Tracey O’Brien AM, NSW Chief Cancer Offcer and CEO, Cancer Institute NSW thanked cancer patients for taking the time to provide feedback on their care.

“Every 10 minutes someone in NSW is diagnosed with cancer,

with one person dying from the disease every half an hour. Our cancer services are among the best in the country and it’s imperative our health system delivers world-class cancer care, in a safe and supportive environment,” Professor O’Brien said.

“I’d like to thank the expert and passionate health professionals working in our state’s cancer services, for supporting people

and communities at an extraordinarily challenging time of their lives.

“These survey results highlight our commitment to delivering person-centred care with compassion, respect and dignity. We will continue to work closely with local health districts, cancer centres and clinicians across NSW to ensure that people with cancer have the support they need to navigate the healthcare system.”

The NSW Government invests around $180 million each year, through the Cancer Institute NSW, to improve cancer care in NSW and lessen the impact of cancer for people across the state.

The results of the Bureau of Health Information Outpatient Cancer Clinics Survey 2024 are available at: https://www.bhi.nsw. gov.au/.

Excess Body Fat Substantially Increases Risk of Postmenopausal Breast Cancer, Study Finds

New research from Spain, published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, suggests that nearly 40% of postmenopausal hormone-positive breast cancer cases could be linked to excess body fat. This fgure is signifcantly higher than the current estimate of one in 10 cases attributed to excess weight, based on body mass index (BMI).

The fndings indicate that the true impact of obesity on breast cancer risk has likely been underestimated.

The researchers argue that BMI, commonly used to assess obesity, is not an accurate indicator of body fat, particularly in older women. BMI does not account for factors such as age, sex, or ethnicity, making

it less reliable in this demographic. To address this limitation, the study compared BMI with the Clínica Universidad de Navarra–Body Adiposity Estimator (CUN-BAE), a validated measure of body fat that takes both age and sex into account.

The study included 1,033 postmenopausal white women with breast cancer and 1,143 women without the disease, matched for age, sex, and geographic region. All participants were part of the MCC-Spain study, which investigates environmental and genetic factors related to various cancers, including bowel, breast, stomach, and prostate cancers, as well as chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Participants provided detailed information on sociodemographics,

lifestyle, personal and family medical history, and reproductive history. Dietary habits were assessed using a validated 140-item Food Frequency Questionnaire, and alcohol consumption between the ages of 30 and 40 was gathered through a selfadministered survey.

The study classifed body fat according to the CUN-BAE into four categories: below 35%, 35%-39.9%, 40%-44.9%, and 45% or above. BMI was categorized into: less than 25 kg/m², 25-29.9, 30-34.9, and 35 and above. The average BMI was just over 26 in the control group and slightly above 27 in women with breast cancer, while average CUN-BAE values were close to 40% for both groups.

Among the comparison

group, 45% of women had a BMI below 25, compared with 37% of women with breast cancer. A BMI of 30 or above, indicating obesity, was observed in 20% of the control group and just over 24% of those with breast cancer. In terms of CUN-BAE, 20.5% of the control group had body fat below 35%, compared with 16% of those with breast cancer. Conversely, 46% of the control group had a CUN-BAE of 40% or higher, compared with 53% of the breast cancer group.

Crucially, a CUNBAE of 45% or higher was associated with more than double the risk of developing postmenopausal breast cancer, compared to those with a CUN-BAE below 35%. No similar trend was observed using BMI, leading

researchers to estimate that 23% of breast cancer cases could be attributed to excess body fat when using BMI, but this fgure rose to 38% when using CUN-BAE. For hormone-positive cancers specifcally, the estimated proportion of cases attributable to excess body fat was 20% using BMI and 42% using CUN-BAE. While the researchers acknowledge that this case-control study cannot establish causality, and that the CUN-BAE formula was derived from a sample of sedentary individuals, they emphasize the signifcance of their fndings. The number of breast cancer cases that were not hormonepositive was small, limiting the study’s scope for non-hormonerelated cases.

Nonetheless, the researchers conclude:

“Our study indicates that excess body fat is a signifcant risk factor for hormone receptorpositive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. The population impact may be underestimated when relying solely on BMI, and more accurate measures of body fat, such as CUN-BAE, should be used when estimating the cancer burden attributable to obesity in postmenopausal breast cancer.”

These fndings are essential for informing public health strategies aimed at preventing breast cancer, as more accurate measures of body fat can help identify individuals at higher risk and guide more effective prevention efforts.

Cancer Care services clinical and administration staff at the Tweed Valley Hospital

IAN ROGERS

Slight Increase in Sydney Vacancies Doesn’t Mask ‘Dire’ Rental Market

Sydney’s rental market is facing a deepening crisis, with a slight uptick in vacancy rates doing little to alleviate the severe pressure on renters. Despite recent data showing a marginal increase in available rental properties, the broader market remains extremely tight, leaving tenants in an increasingly precarious position. The growing demand for rental accommodation, coupled with a lack of affordable housing, has contributed to recordhigh rents and a sense of uncertainty for many Sydney residents.

The Marginal Vacancy Increase

Recent reports have indicated a slight rise in Sydney’s rental vacancy rate, which has edged up to around 1.4% from previous historic lows. However, experts emphasize that this minor increase is far from enough to address the underlying issues facing the rental market. Even with this slight uptick, vacancy rates are still below what would be considered a healthy, balanced market—typically around 3%—where supply and demand are more evenly matched. The current vacancy rate remains refective of a highly competitive rental environment, with available properties still in short supply. For many prospective tenants, this small increase in vacancies

offers little relief. Competition for rental properties remains ferce, with multiple applicants often vying for the same unit. Open house inspections frequently see long lines of prospective renters, highlighting the desperation of those searching for a place to live. The stress and fnancial burden placed on renters continues to grow, exacerbated by the fact that landlords can still afford to be selective, often prioritizing tenants who can offer higher rent or pay several months in advance.

Skyrocketing Rental Prices

The ongoing shortage of rental properties in

Sydney has driven rental prices to record highs. According to CoreLogic, median rents in Sydney have surged by more than 10% in the past year, with some areas seeing even steeper increases. The median weekly rent for a house in Sydney now exceeds $700, while units are averaging above $600 per week. These fgures are particularly concerning for low- and middle-income renters, who are fnding it increasingly diffcult to afford housing within reasonable proximity to the city center or their places of work.

The rental affordability crisis is particularly acute in Sydney’s inner suburbs and popular

coastal areas, where demand is strongest. While some tenants have turned to outer suburbs and regional areas in search of more affordable options, this migration has led to price increases in those areas as well. Renters who once found relief in Sydney’s outer regions are now facing rising costs there, creating a ripple effect across the wider metropolitan area. Structural Issues and Demand Pressures

Several factors have contributed to Sydney’s ongoing rental crisis, and the recent increase in vacancies does little to address these structural issues. Sydney’s population growth has rebounded post-

pandemic, with many international students, skilled migrants, and returning expatriates increasing demand for rental properties. The steady fow of new residents, coupled with a lack of new housing developments, has exacerbated the supplydemand imbalance.

Additionally, there has been a notable shift in the housing market, with more investors turning their properties into short-term rentals, such as those listed on platforms like Airbnb, further reducing the number of long-term rental properties available. This trend is particularly prevalent in Sydney’s popular tourist areas, where landlords can often generate higher returns through shortterm holiday rentals rather than leasing to long-term tenants.

felt for several years. In the meantime, the shortfall in available rental properties will continue to keep pressure on prices.

The Need for Policy Reforms

Experts and housing advocates are calling for immediate government intervention to address Sydney’s “dire” rental market. There are growing calls for policies that incentivize the development of affordable housing and introduce stronger protections for tenants. Rent control measures, while controversial, have been suggested as a way to stabilize rental prices in the short term. Additionally, reforms to rental laws that provide tenants with greater security and longerterm leases could help alleviate some of the stress renters face in such a competitive market.

In the longer term, addressing the root causes of the rental crisis will require a multifaceted approach. Expanding housing supply, particularly affordable housing, is critical to restoring balance in the market. Streamlining planning approvals, investing in infrastructure, and ensuring that new developments cater to a range of income levels will be essential steps toward creating a more sustainable rental market in Sydney.

Conclusion

While the slight increase in Sydney’s rental vacancies provides a glimmer of hope, it does not mask the underlying issues that continue to plague the city’s rental market.

Renters are still facing signifcant challenges as demand outstrips supply, and rental prices reach new heights.

The issue is further compounded by slow housing development, as regulatory barriers and rising construction costs have hampered efforts to expand Sydney’s housing stock. While the government has announced plans to boost housing supply through new developments and infrastructure projects, these initiatives take time to implement, and the benefts may not be

Without immediate and comprehensive policy interventions, Sydney’s rental market is likely to remain “dire” for the foreseeable future, with long-term consequences for the city’s affordability and liveability.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Relax, have a break and enjoy BRISBANE

Enjoy good times in the CBD

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

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

- WIFI

- your own Parking for 1 car

- Balcony with seating

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

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Grape Expectations by Max Crus

now

its

Burning down the house (market).

Right, listen up! There’s been lots of talk lately about a housing crisis, so just in case you have been in intensive care for a decade or you are already dead, here’s a brief history of how we’ve tackled the issue.

John Howard and Peter Costello fxed everything by giving all the mining boom windfall to people who already had dough via tax breaks for the rich, franking credits and capital gain discounts for housing investors suggesting this

Mayfeld Vineyard

Orange ‘Eighteen Fifteen’ Chardonnay 2023, $37.

A celebration of seven blokes, four horses and fve dogs crossing the Blue Mountains and discovering the region of Orange for white blokes. One was ‘given’ ‘Mayfeld’ for his

would encourage them to build new houses for the poor.

This worked very well… for rich people, thank you very much, although they didn’t build anything (or thank anyone), they just bought every home in the country and jacked the rent up.

This sudden leap in demand as they all leapt on the bandwagon caused house prices to double in fve minutes and everyone was happy, specially anyone who

chardonnay though. 9.4/10.

Mayfeld Vineyard

Orange Mrs Crawford, Pinot Noir, 2023, $37.

Margaret Crawford lived at Mayfeld for 65 years.

Living anywhere for that time is an achievement but planting the arboretum was her true legacy, specially if

owned a house…or ten.

After a decade people discovered it was much harder to buy a house.

Thus the First Home Buyers scheme was introduced, which gave people $7,000 to buy a house and which simultaneously raised the price of every house in Australia by $7,000, whether a frst home buyer bought it or not.

Everyone was happy, specially those who owned a house…or ten.

The NSW Government

Mayfeld Vineyard

Orange Jonty Met Otto Cabernet Franc, 2023, $37. Such a sweet story about the meeting of brothers, Jonty and Otto, and a case should be saved for their 18th birthday, or 30th perhaps. They’ll probably prefer other stuff

thought paying the average $25,000 stamp duty in instalments would help. Unfortunately so did the real estate industry which unilaterally raised the price of every house by $25,000 and everyone was happy, specially if they owned a house (or ten).

Then the Coalition suggested allowing people to use $50,000 of their superannuation to ‘buy in’ might work. House prices rose by $50,000 out of fright, and everyone was happy,

Mayfeld Vineyard

Orange Three Boys Cabernet Blend, 2023, $30. This is so light and bright it could almost be ‘Low Alcohol’, but 12 per cent is not quite light enough. Fruity but sharp at the same time and quite unusual for cabernet. Have

specially if you owned a house (or ten), and the Superannuation industry went ‘WTF?”

Then the Coalition donated low-interest money to banks to help small business through the pandemic, which the banks promptly funnelled into housing instead, and everyone was happy…

And everyone was happy, specially those who owned a home (or ten), who all rushed out and bought wine with their windfall from their negatively-geared, capitalgains discount.

So there was one positive.

Finally someone suggested building more houses, to which Labor and the Coalition went “What sort of bizarre, unhinged, kooky, Green Political Party idea is that?”, and instead offered to go halves with the fnance for a few lucky home buyers, to which the real estate industry said ‘Whoopppeee” and raised everything by 10 percent.

(Mr Riggs) Mr Brightside Fleurieu Peninsula Rosé 2023, $24. A charmingly cherry-pink thing with a cool, if unfathomable, arty label should walk off the shelves. If it walks into your fridge you get a pretty smart rose to show off with your weird sense of art.

‘Valerie’ Pinot Noir, 2023, $35. Valerie is one of the most cherished girls’ names because of Amy Winehouse. Who doesn’t love Valerie now because of that song? And if you love pinot you will love Valerie too. Defnitely at the posh

Max Crus

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

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

THAI CHICKEN AND RICE TRAY BAKE

INGREDIENTS

20m prep 50m cook serves 6

• 6 large chicken thigh cutlets, skin on, trimmed

• 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste

• 1 tbsp peanut oil

• 1 lime, cut into 1cm slices

• 1 small brown onion, fnely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, crushed

• 3cm piece fresh ginger, peeled, fnely grated

• 1 lemongrass stalk, white part only, fnely chopped

• 1 carrot, fnely diced

• 1 1/2 cups white long-grain rice, rinsed

• 2 1/2 cups chicken liquid stock

• 200g green beans, trimmed, cut into 4cm pieces

• 125g baby corn, thickly sliced

• 1 tbsp fsh sauce

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1 green onion, thinly sliced diagonally

• Sliced long red chilli, to serve

• Chopped roasted peanuts, to serve

• Fresh mint leaves, to serve

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 180C/160C fan-forced. Place chicken and curry paste in a bowl. Rub paste all over chicken.

2. Heat 1/2 tbs oil in a heavy-based fameproof roasting pan over medium-high heat. Cook lime for 1 minute each side or until charred. Transfer to a plate. Add chicken to pan, skin-side down. Cook for 3 minutes each side or until well browned. Transfer to a plate.

3. Wipe pan clean. Heat remaining 1/2 tbs oil in pan over medium heat. Add brown onion, garlic, ginger, lemongrass and carrot. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until onion softens. Add rice. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until rice is coated in mixture. Add stock. Bring to the boil.

4. Place chicken on top of rice mixture. Cover tightly with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil. Move chicken to one side. Fluff rice with a fork. Add beans, corn, lime slices, fsh sauce and lime juice to rice. Stir to combine. Arrange chicken over rice. Bake, uncovered, for 5 to 10 minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is browned and cooked through. Top with green onion, chilli, peanuts and mint. Serve

CHICKEN AND CHICKPEA TRAY BAKE

CHOC CHIP BANANA MUFFINS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups self-raising four

• 1/2 cup caster sugar

• 60g butter

• 1/2 cup milk

• 2 eggs

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed

• 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate bits

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 200C or 180C fan-forced.

2. Sift four into a mixing bowl. Stir in sugar. Make a well in the centre of dry ingredients.

3. Melt butter in a small saucepan or heat-proof bowl in the microwave. Set aside to cool slightly.

4. Add milk, eggs and butter in to dry ingredients, along with mashed banana. Using a wooden spoon, gently mix ingredients until just combined. Stir in choc bits. Don’t beat the mixture or the muffns will be tough.

5. Line a muffn tray with paper cases. Spoon the mixture evenly into the muffn cases. Bake for 20 minutes or until frm on top when lightly touched (get an adult to help with this).

6. Leave in the tray for 3 minutes. Transfer the muffns to a rack to cool.

25m prep 1h 05m cook serves 10

INGREDIENTS

• 8 Chicken Drumsticks

• 400g can chickpeas, rinsed, drained

• 1 tbsp Moroccan seasoning

• 500g vine-ripened cherry tomatoes

• 60g Baby Spinach

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 200°C. Grease a large baking dish

2. Arrange the chicken and chickpeas in the prepared dish. Sprinkle with the Moroccan seasoning. Bake for 30 mins or until the chicken is cooked through, adding the tomatoes to the dish for the last 10 mins of cooking time.

3. Add spinach to dish. Cover with foil and set aside for 5 mins to rest. Season.

Garden ponds are more than just beautiful water features—they are ecosystems that breathe life into outdoor spaces, providing a sanctuary for wildlife, a focal point of tranquillity, and a boost to the overall health of your garden. Whether you’re looking to create a small, peaceful oasis or a larger, more elaborate water feature, adding a pond to your garden is a rewarding project that brings both aesthetic and environmental benefts.

The Growing Popularity of Garden Ponds

Over the last decade, garden ponds have surged in popularity, particularly as homeowners and garden enthusiasts seek ways to create natural, biodiverse spaces that are not only visually appealing but also benefcial to the environment. In the wake of increased awareness about biodiversity loss, many gardeners are turning to ponds

as a means to support wildlife, improve their garden’s ecosystem, and create a serene atmosphere.

From small container ponds to sprawling, naturalistic water features, the variety of pond designs available makes it easy for anyone to incorporate water into their outdoor space, regardless of garden size. Ponds are increasingly being seen as essential garden elements that foster biodiversity while enhancing the overall look and feel of the landscape.

Environmental Benefts of Garden Ponds

A garden pond is more than just a water feature—it is an entire ecosystem that can transform your garden into a haven for wildlife. Even small ponds provide crucial habitats for a variety of creatures, including frogs, newts, dragonfies, birds, and insects. Water is a magnet for wildlife, and by adding a pond to your garden, you’re

contributing to the local ecosystem in meaningful ways.

Supporting Wildlife:

One of the most signifcant environmental benefts of a pond is its ability to support biodiversity. Frogs, toads, and newts are some of the most common amphibians to be attracted to ponds, using them for breeding, shelter, and hunting insects. Dragonfies and damselfies, often seen darting over pond surfaces, use the water to lay their eggs, and their larvae develop in the pond before emerging as adults.

Birds are also drawn to ponds for drinking and bathing, while bees, butterfies, and other pollinators are attracted to the moisture and nectar-rich plants that thrive near water. Even in urban areas, ponds can create vital wildlife corridors, helping creatures move between habitats and increasing the overall biodiversity of a neighbourhood.

Improving Garden Health:

A well-maintained pond can also improve the overall health of your garden. Ponds create microclimates that support a wider variety of plants, especially those that prefer moist, humid conditions. Aquatic plants, such as water lilies, oxygenate the water and help maintain a healthy balance by absorbing excess nutrients that can lead to algae growth. The natural processes of a pond—like the decomposition of organic matter—also contribute

to nutrient cycling, which can improve soil health around the pond area. Additionally, ponds can help regulate garden temperatures, acting as natural cooling systems during hot summers by refecting sunlight and increasing humidity in the surrounding air.

Planning Your Garden Pond

Creating a pond in your garden may seem like a daunting task, but with proper planning, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding project. Whether you choose a pre-formed pond liner, a fexible liner, or even a large container, the key is to consider the size, location, and purpose of your pond before you begin digging.

Choosing the Right Location:

When planning your pond, location is everything. Ideally, the pond should be placed in a spot that gets a good balance of sunlight and shade. Too much sun can lead to excessive algae growth, while too much shade can hinder the growth of aquatic plants. A site that gets around four to six hours of sunlight a day is usually ideal.

Avoid placing your pond directly beneath trees, as falling leaves can quickly fll the water and increase maintenance. A level area is best for creating a stable pond, but if your garden is sloped, you can incorporate naturalistic features such as cascading water or a stream to add visual interest.

Size and Shape:

The size of your pond

will depend on the space you have available and the role you want the pond to play in your garden. Larger ponds create more stable ecosystems, but even a small pond can support a surprising amount of wildlife. The shape of your pond should complement the style of your garden—formal gardens may suit geometric shapes, while naturalistic or cottagestyle gardens often look best with more organic, freeform ponds.

Choosing Plants:

Aquatic plants are essential to a healthy pond, providing oxygen, shelter, and food for wildlife. When selecting plants, consider a mix of submerged plants (such as hornwort), foating plants (like water lilies), and marginal plants (such as irises and marsh marigolds) to create a balanced ecosystem. Plants not only add beauty to the pond but also help maintain water quality by absorbing nutrients that would otherwise feed algae. Aim for around 50-70% plant coverage to keep your pond’s water clear and healthy.

Maintaining a Healthy Pond

Pond maintenance is relatively straightforward, but it’s essential for keeping your water feature clean and thriving. Regularly remove debris like leaves and dead plants to prevent water quality issues. Algae can be controlled with a combination of aquatic plants, proper fltration, and sometimes manual removal.

Ensure that the water level remains consistent, particularly during dry periods, and check for any leaks in your pond liner. During the colder months, allow some water circulation to prevent freezing solid if you live in a cooler climate.

Enhancing Your Pond for Wildlife

If attracting wildlife is a priority, consider adding features like shallow areas or sloping edges that make it easier for creatures to enter and exit the water. Log piles, stones, and dense plantings around the pond provide additional shelter and breeding spots for amphibians, insects, and small mammals.

Avoid introducing fsh to your wildlife pond, as they can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem by eating insects, eggs, and amphibian larvae. Instead, focus on creating a peaceful, natural environment that welcomes a wide range of species.

A garden pond is a beautiful, functional addition to any garden, offering both aesthetic appeal and environmental benefts. By providing a home for wildlife, improving the health of your garden, and creating a peaceful retreat, a pond can truly transform your outdoor space. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, adding a pond is a wonderful way to reconnect with nature and foster biodiversity in your own backyard.

LIAM JENNINGS

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX CASINO 16/10/2024

The cattle market saw a decline in young cattle numbers this week, though there was a solid yarding of cows. Most young cattle were weaners, with a small portion of yearlings. The quality of the weaners was generally poor, with only a few showing good condition. Despite this, the market remained strong, with restocker demand keeping prices frm or slightly higher. Weaner steers sold between 274c and 432c/kg, averaging 370c to 378c/ kg. Weaner heifers saw little price change, ranging from 230c to 296c/kg. Yearling steers sold between 270c and 360c/kg, while yearling heifers topped at 276c/kg.

The export cattle yarding was dominated by cows, with too few grown steers for a reliable quote. Grown heifers sold at 268c/kg. Cows experienced a cheaper market due to two buyers not operating. Heavy cows sold up to 20c/kg cheaper, ranging

LISMORE

LISMORE SALEYARDS 15TH OCTOBER 2023

A total of 290 cattle were sold at Ian Weir & Son’s Lismore Saleyards on Tuesday, with prices generally softer compared to the previous sale.

Meatworks Cows and Bulls

Meatworks cows and bulls saw a drop in prices, with most selling at rates 20c per kilo lower than the last sale.

WARWICK

WARWICK & DISTRICT LIVESTOCK MARKETS – WEEK ENDING 18/10/2024

Numbers increased this week for both the main Livestock sales with a total of 1423 head of cattle sold and 2705 head of sheep and lambs sold. The markets were frm to a shade easier for some types, with the fresher processing and feed on types holding up the processing types decline. The good young fresh replacement types were keenly sought after.

• Bulls av 272.6c/kg topping at 330.2c/kg or $1207.69 to $2842.00

• Cows av 218.7c/kg topping at 277.2c/kg or $1065.35 to $2217.76

• Heifers av 286.7c/kg topping at 394.2c/kg or $1283.49 to $2038.86

• Steers av 335.7c/kg topping at 345.2c/kg or $2071.97 to $2371.51

• Feeder heifers av 279.3c/kg topping at 328.2c/kg or $888.83 to $1444.08

• Feeder steers av 356.7c/kg topping at 396.2c/kg or $1324.73 to $1803.86

• Vealer heifers av 278.7c/kg topping at 384.2c/kg or $599.54 to $1258.26

• Vealer steers av 342.3c/kg topping at 400.2c/kg or $795.81 to $1089.38

• Manufacturing steers av 274.4c/kg topping at 300.2c/kg or $1742.80 to $2000.67

• Yearling heifers av 287.4c/kg topping at 398.2c/kg or

Report Prepared At 13:47 Wednesday, October 16, 2024 By MS At Workstation OUTCROSSOFFICE2

from 261c to 273c/kg, while medium and light cows were less affected. Medium-weight 2 score cows sold from 204c to 241c, and 3 score cows averaged

The top cow achieved $2.58 per kilo, returning $1,626. Secondary cows sold between $1.80 and $2.20 per kilo. Weaner Steers

Weaner steers were also sold at slightly reduced prices. Good quality lines fetched between $3.40 and $3.86 per kilo, with returns ranging from $800 to $1,000. Secondary steers varied from $2.40 to $3.20 per kilo, depending on breed and quality.

Heifers

Heifer prices remained subdued, with the best achieving $2.90 per kilo. Good quality heifers with freshness sold

$821.79 to $1528.65

• Yearling steers av 294.2c/kg topping at 374.2c/kg or $939.13 to $1607.54

Sale av was $1081.60 for the 1406 head sold.

• Lambs topped at $211 to av $136.01 ($2 down)

• Hoggets topped at $141 to av $94.50 ($9 down)

• Ewes topped at $102 to av $45.63 ($8 down)

• Wethers topped at $103 to av $75.62 ($20 up)

• Ram Lambs topped at $130 to av $90.75 ($35 up)

• Rams topped at $130 to av $104.72 ($17 up)

The yarding of 2705 head av $94.65 a drop of $5/head week on week.

Pork and Poultry numbers were still on a par with previous weeks , Sows sold to $405, Gilts to $235, Boars to $200, Pork from $50 to $270, Stores from $65 to $200. Pullets sold to $17.50 Roosters to $15, Hens to $17.50, Goslings to $15, Geese to $20, Drakes to $27.50, Hen & chicks to $35

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

Agents and vendors today yarded a total of 2705 head to the weekly sale. The stock was drawn from near and far with consignments from Longreach, Blackall, Bollon, Roma and New England as well as local producers from the Southern Downs .The market was dominated by an infux of lighter types for both the Mutton and the Lamb types. The market was still frm for the light feed on types as well as the good light processing lambs. Mutton was dominated with light stock which proved harder to sell compared to the heavy end. Lambs topped at $211 to av $136.01 ($2 down), Hoggets topped at $141 to av

252c/kg. Restocker cows remained in demand, with the top pen selling at 306c/kg, refecting continued interest in restocking options.

in the $2.50 to $2.70 per kilo range, while plainer grades sold for $2.00 to $2.50 per kilo.

Upcoming Sale

Don’t forget about the Breeder Sale on Saturday, 26th October from 9am. A number of good lines of heifers with calves and young cows with calves have already been booked.

If you have cattle you wish to sell, please book in early to secure your place.

$94.50($9down), Ewes topped at $102 to av $45.63 ($8 down), Wethers topped at $103 to av $75.62 ($20 up), Rams topped at $130 to av $90.75 ($35 up), Ram Lambs topped at $130 to av $104.72 ($17 up). The total sale av of $94.65 / head was $5/ head down on last week.

• Tom & Tracie Cooper sold Xbred lambs off crop 60.2kg to Eversons for $206, 61.2kg to Eversons for $205, 56.6kg to Eversons for $193

• Warren & Wendy Schelbach sold Dorper lambs 47.1kg to Sommerville Meats for $200 and to restockers for $191

• Stanthorpe High School sold Texcel sucker lambs 44.1kg to GR Prime for $176

For more information or to list your cattle, contact Ian Weir & Son’s Lismore Saleyards. CONTACT US - The Northern Rivers Times Rural

• Stuart Timms sold Dorper lambs 53.3kg to Warwick meats for $189, 35kg to GR Prime for $80, Dorper ewes to Eversons for $80 and $40

• Cam Co sold Dorset x lambs 60kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $211, 40.5kg to GR Prime for $11848.5kg ram lambs to Take IT Easy Meats for $125 and Eversons for $109,64.5kg hoggets to Eversons for $141, Dorper hoggets 67.3kg to Eversons for $121, 54.4kg Xbred hoggets to Take IT Easy Meats for $100, Dorper wethers 4 tooth 63kg to Eversons for $95, 69.4kg Dorset x wethers 4tooth 69.4kg to Eversons for $90 and GR Prime for $89

• Coggan P/S sold Dorper hoggets 60.9 and 60.6kg to Eversons for $118, 58.33kg to Eversons for $114, 53.7kg to Eversons for $112, 47.9kg to GR Prime for $112

• Tu Past sold Dorper lambs 42.5kg to MC Intyre Meats for $95, 35.8kg to restockers for $80, Hoggets 45.6kg to Mc Intyre Meats for $97, 47kg to Eversons for $87 and $83, 42kg and 40kg to Inglewood processing for $88 and $81, 37.7kg to Eversons for $72

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

Sugar Industry Demands Action Ahead of Queensland State Election

Regional Queensland

As Queensland approaches its state election on October 26, leaders from the state’s key sugar industry bodies – CANEGROWERS and the Australian Sugar Milling Council (ASMC) – are uniting to emphasize the critical role the sugar industry plays in Queensland’s economy and to call for urgent government support.

Representing both sugarcane growers and millers, the two organizations delivered a clear message to politicians: Queensland’s sugar industry, employing over 20,000 people and contributing $4.4 billion to the state’s economy, is too signifcant to be ignored.

Economic Pillar of

“From north of Cairns to the Queensland border and beyond, sugar is the economic lifeblood of regional communities,” said Ash Salardini, CEO of the ASMC. He underscored the industry’s immediate importance: “While politicians talk about building a future manufacturing base, sugar is already here –manufacturing essential products today.”

CANEGROWERS’ Priorities

CANEGROWERS, which represents 70% of the state’s sugarcane farmers, outlined its priorities for the upcoming election. CEO Dan Galligan stressed the need for policies that reduce electricity and water costs, cut red tape, and boost bioenergy development, including

biofuels, through the sugar supply chain.

“Our industry is essential to regional Queensland,” said Galligan. “For growers to stay competitive and seize future opportunities, we need policies that deliver real results. Affordable electricity and water are crucial, and we also need stronger research, smarter environmental programs, and biofuels policies that will unlock new opportunities for our industry.”

Challenges for Mills and Growers

The industry’s leaders also highlighted the risks to the sector, pointing to the recent closure of the Mossman Mill as a wake-up call. Galligan emphasized the interdependence between mills and growers: “We need a viable,

dependable sugar milling sector, and we must learn from the tough lessons of the Mossman Mill closure.”

To support the future of the industry, the peak bodies are calling on the Queensland Government to invest in the sector’s people and infrastructure, including the cane rail network and workforce development.

“CANEGROWERS fully supports the ASMC’s call for investment in the cane rail network,” Galligan said. “The sugar supply chain needs the skills and workforce to remain strong.”

Salardini echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of a reliable cane-growing sector. “Without a dependable supply of cane, our industry is at risk. Affordable and

reliable electricity and water are fundamental to ensuring Queensland’s cane-growing future.”

A Collaborative Future

Despite acknowledging that growers and millers may not always agree, both CANEGROWERS and the ASMC are committed to a collaborative future.

Salardini noted that the opportunities and challenges facing the industry transcend election cycles: “We’re showing the incoming Queensland Government that the sugar industry is ready to lead.”

Galligan added that, while each organization will continue to fght for its members, the sugar industry remains united on the critical issues. “Today, we’re focused on common ground, telling the

Queensland Government that the sugar industry is determined to thrive.”

As the leading voices for Queensland’s sugar industry, CANEGROWERS and the ASMC are making it clear that the state government must take action. The sugar industry is ready to lead, and it expects the government to follow suit.

View CANEGROWERS’ election priorities by scaning the QR Code.

Aspiring Ag Leaders Wanted: Applications Open for NFF National Agriculture Leadership Program

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has opened applications for its prestigious National Agriculture Leadership Program (NALP), providing a unique opportunity for emerging leaders in the agriculture sector to grow their

skills, connect with policymakers, and receive mentorship from industry experts.

NFF President David Jochinke encouraged Australians under the age of 35 to apply, highlighting the program’s role in fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders.

“It’s an honour to

support young people as they develop their leadership potential and pursue their passion for advocacy,” said Mr. Jochinke. “This program equips participants with the knowledge and experience needed to make a real difference in our industry.”

The NALP, now entering its ffth year, offers participants a rare

opportunity to engage with federal politicians and government departments, tour Australian Parliament House, and work alongside experienced policy professionals. Each participant is also paired with an industry leader for mentorship throughout the program.

Program Highlights:

• Three-day advocacy

retreat in Canberra

• Development of a policy project with guidance from industry experts

• Opportunities to meet with federal politicians and leading policy professionals

Program Dates: The fve-month program begins in February 2025.

Application Deadline: 14 November 2024

Supported by Telstra, the NALP continues to nurture the growth of young leaders in the agricultural sector. With a limited number of spots available, applications are highly competitive.

For more details and to apply, visit NFF National Agricultural Leadership Program.

ROBERT HEYWARD

ROBERT HEYWARD

Rural Bank Australian Farmland Values – Mid-Year Update 2024: Farmland Values Stabilise as Property Transactions Decline

Australian farmland values continued to grow during the frst half of 2024, though at a more moderate pace. The median price of farmland reached $10,141 per hectare, a 12.2% increase from the previous year and the 22nd consecutive period of year-on-year growth. However, growth has slowed, with the median price essentially unchanged from the second half of 2023, registering a minor 0.1% decline. Additionally, farmland transactions have tightened further as properties took longer to sell, with volumes hitting record lows.

Key Highlights:

• Median Farmland Price (H1 2024): $10,141/ha

• Price Change from H2 2023: -0.1%

• Price Change from H1 2023: +12.2% Regional Performance:

• Queensland: Continued strong growth, especially in the

Central Highlands and Southeast, with a median price of $9,777/ha (+5.6% from H2 2023, +17.0% year-on-year).

• New South Wales: Similar growth pattern with a median of $9,745/ ha (+5.6% from H2 2023, +13.4% year-onyear).

• Victoria: Farmland values plateaued, registering a half-on-half decline of 6.7%, with a median price of $14,562/ ha (+1.9% year-on-year).

• Tasmania: Strong growth in the North pushed the state median to $23,022/ha (+16.5% from H2 2023, +7.5% year-on-year).

• South Australia: Median prices fell 11% from record highs in 2023, reaching $7,890/ ha, but still saw 7.7% year-on-year growth.

• Western Australia: Battled dry conditions, leading to a 12.1% drop in median prices to $6,846/ha, though up

24.7% year-on-year.

Neil Burgess, Rural Bank’s Senior Manager of Industry Affairs, emphasized that while farmland values have stabilized, transaction volumes have fallen sharply, down 18.7% year-on-year and 4.8% below the previous half-year. He attributed this to buyers struggling to meet sellers’ price expectations. Looking Ahead

The traditional drivers

of farmland values

– commodity prices, seasonal conditions, and interest rates – showed regional variation in the frst half of 2024.

While Queensland and NSW enjoyed favourable rainfall, southern and Western Australia experienced challenging dry conditions. Despite these mixed factors, the longer-term outlook remains optimistic, with farmland values expected to hold steady

in the second half of 2024. Possible interest rate cuts in early 2025 could further stimulate demand.

Most Valuable Farmland by Region (H1 2024):

• Tasmania (Northwest): $28,827/ha

• Victoria (South and West Gippsland): $28,062/ha

• South Australia (Adelaide and Fleurieu): $20,886/ha

• Western Australia (Southwest): $17,236/ha

• Queensland (Southeast): $16,335/ha

• NSW (Hunter and North Coast): $13,100/ ha

For further insights and detailed regional performance, please refer to Rural Bank’s full report via the QR code below.

Australian Support Strengthens Animal Health in the Pacifc

A signifcant step towards enhancing agricultural capacity in the Pacifc will take place this month with the meeting of the Pacifc Heads of Veterinary and Animal Production Services (PHOVAPS) Network. The gathering aims to strengthen key areas

such as animal health, biosecurity, veterinary capability, disease surveillance, animal welfare, and climate resilience, all of which contribute to regional food security and sustainable agricultural development.

Funded by Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, and

delivered in partnership with the Pacifc Community (SPC) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the meeting will be held from October 16-18, 2024, in Nadi, Fiji. This marks the second in-person gathering of the network since its re-establishment in 2021.

Australia’s Chief Veterinary Offcer, Dr. Beth Cookson, along with representatives from the department’s Pacifc Engagement Program for Animal Health, will attend the event. Dr. Cookson emphasized the importance of animal production in Pacifc nations’ cultural and economic fabric, as well as its critical role in food security.

“Strengthening Pacifc animal health, production, and biosecurity is essential for improving food security, nutrition, and livelihoods while protecting the region from animal disease threats,” said Dr. Cookson. “Through strategic, technical, and mentoring support to the PHOVAPS Network, we aim to enhance regional capabilities and foster closer ties that ensure shared prosperity and security.”

The PHOVAPS Network serves as the primary decision-making body for regional matters related to animal health, welfare, production, and biosecurity. The network includes representatives from all 22 Pacifc Island

countries and territories, as well as key partners such as Australia, New Zealand, the UK, USA, and France.

Australia’s ongoing collaboration with regional organizations like SPC and WOAH underscores its commitment to bolstering veterinary capacity, disease preparedness, and animal welfare in the Pacifc. These efforts not only help secure the region’s

food and nutrition security but also contribute to building climate resilience and protecting the broader Indo-Pacifc region from biosecurity risks.

Dr. Cookson reaffrmed Australia’s dedication to growing the PHOVAPS Network’s capacity, enhancing its impact, and reinforcing Australia’s role as a trusted regional partner in supporting the Pacifc’s agricultural and biosecurity priorities.

IAN ROGERS

Autumn-winter compliance data shows increase in enforcement actions for water law breaches

Water law compliance data for the autumnwinter period has shown a 57% increase in total enforcement actions taken by the Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) compared to the same period in 2023.

There were 227 enforcement actions taken between March and August in 2024, compared to 145 in the same period last year, including fnes, stop work orders and offcial warnings and cautions.

The main factor in the increase was a rise in the number of directions issued to water licence holders. Many of these were linked to water users who needed to replace broken water meters. Directions and orders were issued to ensure water-use limits were followed until replacement was completed.

Warnings and cautions issued by the regulator for breaches increased by 20% to 95 over 2023 levels, while the number of fnes (penalty notices) fell by 19% to 34.

NRAR received 1186 suspicious activity reports in the autumnwinter period of 2024, and 319 of these have been referred for further investigation.

Of the state’s 14 water sharing plan regions, the Macquarie Castlereagh region recorded the highest number of enforcement actions for the six months, with

31. This included 5 fnes, 19 directions and 7 warnings or cautions.

This total is an increase of more than 500% on the same period in 2023.

The Lachlan water sharing plan area was next highest with 28 enforcement actions from March to August this year, followed by the Namoi region on 25.

NRAR Director of Investigations and Enforcement Lisa Stockley, said releasing compliance data was an important part of NRAR’s commitment to transparency about its activities and results.

“A variety of compliance data is publicly available on our website, and this gives confdence to the public that water is being managed effectively and action will be taken when rules are broken,”

Ms Stockley said.

“When we decide how to respond to breaches of the law, we focus our efforts and resources on those that pose the greatest risk of harm to communities, the environment or other water users,” she said.

“A lot of people are already doing the right thing, and we are encouraged by that.

“The number of breaches is small compared to the 39,000 licences monitored by NRAR, but that said, even small breaches matter because together they can add up to a serious widespread problem.”

See more compliance data for your area on our online dashboard.

Examples of enforcement actions from this period

Case study Forbes region

The offences: A Forbes region property owner was found to have allegedly overdrawn their water account by more than 124 ML. This equates to about 50 Olympic swimming pools worth of water above what they were allowed to take under the terms of their licence. During

NRAR’s investigation of this matter, it was also discovered that the property owner did not have compliant metering on the pumps used to extract the water.

Our response: To determine whether further action was needed, NRAR issued a notice to the water licence holder to provide information and records about the over-extraction and what steps they had taken to install the correct metering equipment. In the landholders’ response to the notice, they provided proof they had engaged a qualifed installer and

paid a deposit to have the required metering installed.

The result: The landholder paid a fne for overdrawing their water account, and now has compliant metering on their pumps. This means that future water use can be accurately measured and accounted for.

Case study Dubbo region

The offence: A Dubbo region landholder was found to have allegedly breached the terms and conditions of their combined approval to pump and use water. In this case, it was found that excess water from

an irrigated crop was being discharged directly into the Macquarie River via a pipe through the riverbank.

This “tail water” can potentially contain fertilisers or other farm chemicals that can damage the river ecosystem.

Our response: The landholder was issued with a direction to remove the discharge pipe.

The result: The pipe has been removed and the risk of polluting the waterway and damaging the river environment has been reduced.

TABLE: Compliance data for the fve NSW water sharing plan regions with the highest number of enforcement actions for autumn-winter period 2024.

Queensland’s Leaders Must Act Now to Secure a Biofuels Future

With just days remaining before Queensland’s state election, CANEGROWERS is calling on the major political parties to urgently address the need for a domestic biofuels industry. As Premier Steven Miles and Opposition Leader David Crisafulli prepare for their fnal debate, one vital question remains: will they commit to the investments and policies needed to launch Queensland’s agriculture sector into a biofuels future, creating thousands of jobs and adding billions to the economy?

Queensland’s sugar industry, which has been an economic cornerstone for over 150 years, employs more than 20,000 people and contributes nearly $4.5 billion annually. However, despite its importance, the industry

is being overlooked in the global race for biofuel development, leaving Queensland at risk of falling behind.

CANEGROWERS

CEO Dan Galligan voiced concerns over the lack of leadership from both major parties.

“The silence is deafening. Australia needs a domestic biofuels industry,

and we’re being left behind by our global competitors,” Mr. Galligan said. “Queensland has the opportunity to power the future of sustainable Australian air travel, contribute to national emissions targets, and secure fuel independence—but it won’t happen without bold government action.”

Mr. Galligan emphasized that sugarcane is ideally positioned to be a primary feedstock for biofuels, complementing the existing sugar supply chains. With the right policies, Queensland could lead the way in creating a low-emissions fuel industry while continuing to support the successful sugar

industry.

“This election is crucial. We need policies that lower electricity and water costs, support the expansion of cane farming, and remove the regulatory barriers that are stifing growth,”

Mr. Galligan added. “A biofuels industry would enhance the current supply chain, boost exports, and provide a

critical feedstock for biofuels. Growers must be at the heart of this future.”

CANEGROWERS’ key demands include:

• $600 million in government co-funding for a sustainable aviation fuel production facility.

• Policies to reduce electricity and water prices for farmers.

• A mandate for 5% Queensland-produced sustainable aviation fuel in all commercial fights from Queensland airports.

• Streamlined regulations to expand cane farming areas.

“Don’t let this opportunity take off without Queensland,”

Mr. Galligan urged.

“A sugarcane-powered biofuels industry could secure the future of low-emissions aviation, provide fuel security, and support regional communities and farming families—but we need immediate action.”

IAN ROGERS

New Study Reveals Promising Results for Rangeland Grazing Systems

A recent study conducted by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) has shown signifcant improvements in ground cover across several mixed grazing properties in the rangelands of western NSW. These fndings are linked to the adoption of strategic grazing management practices, which aim to enhance land condition and support ecosystem services.

Ground cover, a critical indicator of land health, saw measurable improvements as a result of planned grazing management, which involves rotating stock through multiple paddocks, incorporating long rest periods, and adjusting stocking rates to align with feed availability.

Dr. Sarah McDonald,

NSW DPIRD Pastures Research Scientist, noted that the study highlights the benefts of carefully managing grazing timing, intensity, and duration.

“Measurable improvements in ground cover and

land condition can be achieved by managing grazing strategically,”

Dr. McDonald said.

“However, these changes depend on various factors such as land type, rainfall, and specifc management decisions.”

The study observed

signifcant improvements on four of the seven properties involved, and demonstrated the practical application of remotely sensed data to document these environmental outcomes.

The research is part of a fve-year collaborative

project, Rangelands Living Skin, funded by Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA). The project aimed to create an evidence base for sustainable practices that beneft soil, plants, animals, and livestock businesses in NSW rangelands.

Among the project’s fndings was the ability to remain proftable while adopting regenerative practices.

The participating properties were competitive with top Australian producers while improving environmental outcomes.

“The involvement of producers in the project design and delivery was key to the project’s success,” Dr. McDonald said. “Their role in promoting the fndings is crucial to encouraging wider adoption of these practices.”

To read the full study, visit Managing Grazing to Increase Ground Cover in Rangelands. For more information on the Rangelands Living Skin project, visit MLA’s website.

For resources on pastures and rangelands, visit NSW DPIRD’s website.

Finding Her Feet in a Feedlot: Caitlin Herbert’s Journey in Building Drought Resilience

IAN ROGERS

On International Day of Rural Women, we celebrate the vital contributions rural women have made and continue to make in agriculture. A shining example is Caitlin Herbert, a Nuffeld Drought Resilience Scholar, who is using her expertise to examine how feedlots can strengthen the beef supply chain during droughts.

Caitlin has worked on her family’s 16,000-acre farm, Gundamain, in Eugowra, Central West NSW, for fve years. The farm has been in the family for six generations, and Caitlin is the frst daughter to return and actively contribute to the operations, which include a feedlot, cattle breeding, sheep, hay production, and dryland

cropping. Last year, the family celebrated 150 years of farming, a proud milestone in their agricultural legacy.

Her scholarship has taken her across North and South America, where she visited feeding facilities in fve countries. This global learning experience has provided Caitlin with insights that she is applying back at Gundamain, helping the farm—and the broader Australian feedlot industry—be better prepared for future droughts.

“I’ve been able to see others doing what we do, but in different ways,” Caitlin said. “This knowledge is helping us at Gundamain and will beneft the entire Australian feedlot and cattle industry.”

Caitlin’s research focuses on how feedlots can offer alternative feed

sources, improve animal welfare, and provide contingency plans during droughts. She notes that the feedlot industry in Australia has grown largely due to the country’s extreme weather conditions, particularly droughts, which have become more frequent and severe.

Her Future Drought Fund (FDF) scholarship aims to build drought resilience in Australia’s agriculture sector, with Caitlin’s fndings contributing to a growing knowledge base for future generations of farmers.

Mel Brown, First Assistant Secretary of Farm Resilience, emphasized the importance of programs like the FDF. “These scholarships allow our farmers to learn from the best globally and bring that knowledge

home,” Ms. Brown said. “Caitlin’s work not only benefts her farm but creates valuable data for others to learn from.”

International Rural Women’s Day also highlights the ongoing

efforts to promote gender diversity in agriculture. The recent Women on Agricultural Boards event, hosted at the Australian Parliament House, is part of this effort, encouraging more women to take on leadership roles in agriculture.

To learn more about the Drought Resilience Scholarship Program, visit agriculture.gov.au.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Rangeland Grazing Systems

Feedlot Sector Continues to Impress at BeefEx: A Testament to Innovation and Growth

Sector Forward

The Australian feedlot industry once again showcased its resilience and forward-thinking approach at BeefEx, cementing its role as a crucial player in the beef supply chain. The biennial event, which attracts the nation’s top feedlot operators, suppliers, and industry experts, was a testament to the sector’s ongoing innovation, sustainability efforts, and its ability to meet growing global demand for premium beef.

Feedlotting, a cornerstone of Australia’s beef industry, provides a consistent and high-quality beef product, catering to both domestic and international markets.

This year’s BeefEx highlighted how feedlots are not only maintaining these high standards but are actively advancing in key areas such as animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and datadriven effciencies.

Innovation Driving the

One of the major themes at this year’s conference was the integration of cutting-edge technology to enhance productivity and animal care. From automated feeding systems to precision livestock management, feedlots are leveraging technology to improve operational effciency and reduce the environmental footprint. Presenters showcased how innovations such as drones, smart sensors, and AIpowered analytics are enabling operators to monitor cattle health in real-time, optimize feed conversion, and streamline overall management. These advancements are particularly signifcant as the industry responds to increased scrutiny around sustainability practices. With consumer demand for ethically produced beef on the rise, feedlots are under pressure to reduce emissions, conserve water, and improve the welfare

of their livestock.

At BeefEx, several operators discussed their investment in renewable energy sources, such as solar power and methane capture, to minimize their carbon footprint while increasing proftability.

A Focus on Sustainability

Sustainability was at the forefront of many discussions, with an emphasis on how the industry can meet global climate targets without compromising on production quality. The feedlot sector has made strides in adopting more sustainable practices, such as water recycling, rotational grazing, and waste management systems that convert manure into valuable by-products.

A standout feature of BeefEx was the collaboration between industry leaders and sustainability experts,

exploring how the sector can further reduce its environmental impact.

Speakers highlighted the importance of ongoing research and development in areas like methane reduction and carbon sequestration, both of which will be critical for the industry’s long-term success.

Supporting Animal Welfare

Animal welfare is a non-negotiable priority for the Australian feedlot sector, and BeefEx reinforced the industry’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care. Presentations and panel discussions highlighted the latest developments in pain mitigation, low-stress handling techniques, and health monitoring systems.

Feedlot operators shared their experiences of implementing best practices to ensure the wellbeing of cattle

throughout the feeding process.

The conference also underscored the importance of transparency and consumer education in building trust with the public. As more consumers become interested in the origins of their food, the industry is focused on ensuring that its practices align with societal expectations around humane treatment and ethical sourcing.

Looking to the Future

With global demand for Australian beef continuing to rise, particularly in key export markets across Asia and the Middle East, the feedlot sector is poised for signifcant growth.

BeefEx 2024 offered a platform for stakeholders to discuss how to balance this growth with sustainability and innovation, ensuring that the industry remains

competitive on the world stage.

The feedlot sector’s performance at BeefEx is a clear indication that it will continue to be a driving force in Australia’s agricultural economy. By embracing new technologies, prioritizing animal welfare, and committing to sustainability, the industry is wellpositioned to meet the challenges of the future while continuing to deliver high-quality beef to consumers around the world.

BeefEx 2024 was more than just a showcase of the sector’s current achievements; it was a glimpse into the future of Australian feedlotting, where innovation and responsibility go hand in hand. As the industry evolves, it remains clear that the feedlot sector will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Australian agriculture.

JEFF GIBBS

Craig Owen Simpkins July 6th, 1962 – October 31st, 2023

our hearts you will stay loved and remembered every day. Love Mum, Sisters and Brothers

Late of Casino, passed away surrounded by family on 15th October 2024, aged 91 years.

Dearly loved Wife of John (dec’d) and formerly Keith Reid (dec’d). Much loved Mother and Mother-in-law of Robyn and John; Kerryn; Terry; Donna and Jeff. Loved Nana to her Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Norma’s funeral, to be held at the Warwick Funerals Chapel, 48 Willi Street, Warwick, Qld, service commencing at 10:00am (Qld time), followed by interment at Eden Gardens Memorial Park, Little Warner Street, Warwick, Qld, Thursday, 24th October 2024. Alternatively, the service will be available via live stream, please go to www.burstows.com.au/tribute-centre

“Sadly missed by all who knew her”

page

WAPPETT, VERNA DOREEN

29. 09. 1937 ~ 12. 10. 2024

Late of Crowley Village Ballina. Passed away peacefully at Lismore Base Hospital on Saturday 12th October 2024, aged 87. Beloved wife of Graeme. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Craig & Barbara, Karen & Baj. Devoted grandmother to Brittany, Madison, Adam, Kim, Crystal, Joshua, Lace and Tylah and her great grandchildren. Loved and sadly missed by her extended family and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Verna’s Memorial Service to be held in the Rainbow Chapel, Rainbow Avenue Ballina on FRIDAY (October 25, 2024) commencing at 2.00 pm. e family are asking those attending the Memorial Service to please wear pastel coloured clothing.

Passed away peacefully at Ballina Hospital early on Sunday morning 13 October aged 85 years.

Beloved wife of Russell (deceased); and loving mother to Jade and Glen. Grandmother to Nyree, Kye and Jaye; and great grandmother to Aidan, Lily, Willow, Logan and Harvey.

Always remembered with love and affection.

Family and friends are invited to a memorial gathering for Joan to be held at the Jullum Room, upper level of Ballina Surf Club, Lighthouse Beach, at 10:00am on Monday 28 October 2024.

Funeral Notice

MITCHELL, Norma Jean

Funeral Notice

Funeral Notice

Northern Rivers District:

Mostly sunny. Light winds becoming E/NE 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening. Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Winds north to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District: Mostly sunny. Light winds.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers in the south, slight chance elsewhere. The chance of a storm. Light winds becoming westerly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then tending southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the evening.

New South Wales:

Showers developing across the far south of the state, more likely about the southern ranges and coast later in the day. The

chance of a shower along the north coast. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere. The chance of fog across the central east and ranges. Northeast to northwesterly winds tending westerly about the ranges ahead of a southwesterly change spreading across the west and south of the state during the day. Fresh NE winds developing along the coast in the afternoon. Thursday. A few showers across the eastern half with storms possible along central and northern parts of the coast and adjacent ranges. Snow possible on the Alpine peaks above 1400 metres in the evening. Dry and sunny elsewhere in the west. Daytime temperatures above average in the northeast and near or below average across the south and west. Northeast to northwesterly winds in the northeast at first. A cooler, S/SW’ly change spreading across the state, fresh at times in the far west and along the coastal fringe.

Byron Coast: Winds: South to southwesterly 10 to 15 knots shifting north to northeasterly during the evening. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres,

decreasing to 1 metre during the morning. 1st Swell: Southerly 1.5 to 2 metres, decreasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the morning. 2nd Swell: Easterly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore south of Yamba. Weather: Mostly sunny. Coffs Coast: Winds: Southerly 10 to 15 knots shifting north to northeasterly during the afternoon. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing below 1 metre during the morning. 1st Swell: Southerly 1.5 to 2 metres, decreasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the morning. 2nd Swell: Easterly around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the morning. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: South to southwesterly 10 to 15 knots becoming variable about 10 knots during the morning then becoming north to northeasterly 10 to 15 knots during the afternoon. Seas: Below 1 metre. 1st Swell: Southerly 1 to 2 metres, decreasing to around 1 metre during the afternoon. 2nd Swell: Easterly around 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Harwood frst drop batter

Coby Tabor has scored the frst century of the season in the CRCA frst grade competition in his team’s frst innings win over Coutts Crossing.

Tabor resumed on 50no and guided his team to a commanding 8/254 in 57 overs before skipper Ben McMahon sent Coutts back in, looking for outright points.

Younger brother Hayden McMahon, who had snared seven wickets on day one, completed a stunning double for the game, scoring 44 as Harwood ground the Coutts attack into the Harwood Oval wicket.

Harwood was within

two wickets of securing outright points as Coutts held on for 41 overs to fnish at 8/141. No details were available from the innings.

Stubborn batting from the South Services/ Westlawn tail has secured a rain-affected draw in their game against Lawrence at Ellem Oval, Grafton.

At 8/62, 100 behind Lawrence’s frst innings total and 25 overs scheduled for play, the Lawrence attack as closing in for the kill.

But Nathan Blanch and Max Forwell had other ideas and set about a stonewalling effort that blunted the Lawrence bowling.

In blocking 25 overs, the pair scored just

two runs and ensured tensions in the Lawrance camp mounted as stumps got closer.

Day two began with Lawrence on 4/139 chasing quick runs.

But Souths ripped through the lower order, taking 6/23 to bowl them out for 162.

Skipper Dylan Cleaver did most of the damage, taking 5/61 from 18 overs.

But South Westlawn’s run chase began disastrously when Jack Cheney bowled Brendan Cotten with the frst ball of the innings.

Skipper Dylan Cleaver, 22, and Brendan Dunn 23, knuckled down for a 40-run stand, putting Souths in with a chance to start the season with

a win.

But the loss of one wicket led to six and within half an hour Souths were clinging on for a draw.

The destroyer was Jarrod Ensbey, who wheeled down 10 tight and penetrative overs to fnish with 5/13.

At Ulmarra Tucabia Copmanhurst swept to victory over GDSC Easts on the back of twin contributions from veterans Matt Pigg, 61, and Brad Chard, 45. Easts would have fancied their chance of defending their below par total of 156 when the early breakthroughs came.

But a 55-run partnership for the sixth wicket between Pigg and

Travis Anderson, 16, took them to 142 just 15 runs short.

Pigg was dismissed at 7/154 with three needed for victory.

Chard and new batter Chris Adamson knocked off the runs, but when the score his 165, the afternoon got more exciting.

The last three wickets fell for no runs and GDSC Easts were asked to bat for a second time.

Easts opening bowler Aaron McFadyen enjoyed his return to the team after a season’s absence, taking 6/67 from 20 overs. His opening partner Shannon Connor took 3/38 from 22.1 overs.

Batting a second time Easts imploded for 65

with Matt Pigg’s off spinners snaring 4/20 and Anderson taking 3/4 to suddenly put an unlikely outright in sight. With a victory target of 55 in fve overs Tucabia went out swinging and came up just 15 short for the loss of two wickets. Anderson led the way with 19 not out, but time ran out.

On Saturday another round of two-day games begin.

At Ellem Oval hosts the GDSC Easts and Harwood clash, Ulmarra Showground is the venue for the Coutts Crossing v South Services Westlawn game and Lower Fisher Turf is the venue for the match between Lawrence and Tucabia Copmanhurst.

MAHJONG RESULTS – OCTOBER 18TH, 2024

1. Lorna Simpson

2. Jan Boardman

3. Lynda Lovett

4. Linda Lloyd

5. Ramsay Roper

6. Jan Small

7. Pauline Kearney

8. Sally Lowry

9. Val Heinritz

10. Joy Lowien

11. Pam Farrell

12. Margaret Bryant

13. Yvonne Weddup

14. Rosemary Russell

15. Valda McLerie

16. Vanessa Reynolds

17. Jeanette Henwood

18. Lisa Wong

19. Barbara Ellan

20. Susan Scott

21. Jan Henley

22. Gail McDonagh

23. Janene Jarvis

24. Shirley Atkinson

25. Cindy Smith

Congratulations to all participants!

CASINO WOMEN’S BOWLS RESULTS

– WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16TH

On Wednesday morning, October 16th, the Casino Women’s Bowls Club held another enjoyable session on the greens. The competition was lively, and all participants showcased their skills and sportsmanship. The standout performers of the day, based on the highest score, were the team of Ivy Watson and Julie Creighton, who secured

a well-earned victory over Tanya Maxwell and Raelene Skirrey.

In a closely contested match, Maria Hellyar and Chris Haynes triumphed over Carmel Doyle and Mary Mead, rounding off an exciting day of bowls with a narrow win. Congratulations to all participants for their efforts and competitive spirit!

CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB RESULTS

Association Croquet

• S. Hume defeated G. Porter 14-13

Ricochet Croquet

• D. Scott / G. Porter

defeated G. Kerr / R. Chapman 14-11

• J. Hannigan / B. Wellings defeated P. Bolte / M. Russell 13-11

• P. Scott / J. Doust

defeated B. Bill / N. Watts 17-7

• P. Bolte / D. Scott

defeated J. Hannigan / R. Poynting 14-12

• R. Allen defeated B. Wellings / B. Bill 15-13

• J. Bate and A. Mangan fnished level at 15-15

• M. Russell / P. Scott

defeated M. Field / N. Barnes 14-10

Golf Doubles OBE Club Championship

• 1st: D. Taylor / B. Wellings

• 2nd: M. Russell / E. Astley

• 3rd: N. Barnes / J. Copeland

• 4th: J. Doust / N.

Watts

Upcoming Events

• Twilight Social Golf

Croquet: Every Tuesday afternoon at 3:30 PM

• Croquet for Kids: Every Thursday afternoon at 3:30 PM

All new players are very welcome!

CORAKI VETERANS GOLF RESULTS

A total of 52 golfers participated in Thursday’s Single Stableford competition, with excellent performances across the board. Congratulations to the following top fnishers:

• Winner: J. Sauer

• 2nd Place: N. Cuppitt

• 3rd Place: W. Henwood

The free game was awarded to B. McDonald.

Chicken/Ball Winners: K. Lloyd, W. Lunnon, R. Earnshaw, R. Rodda, D. Vagne, R. Mackay, T. Woods, R. Gacioppa, J. Weaver, A. Ganter, D. Bullock, R. Black, G. Flaherty, and B. Micheal.

Nearest the Pin:

• 3rd/12th: B. Micheal

• 6th/15th: P. Martin

Looking ahead, next Thursday will feature another Single Stableford event with a shotgun start at 8:30 AM.

Until then, happy golfng!

BALLINA

TIM HOWARD

South Services Westlawn batter Brendan Dunn during a promising partnership with Dylan Cleaver that put on 40 runs against Lawrence at Ellem Oval, Grafton.

life and plays a vital role in bringing communities together.

The Minns Labor Government has committed $200,000 to boost multicultural involvement in rugby league.

This investment was announced during the launch of the 2024 Heritage Rugby League season at the NSW Rugby League Centre of Excellence.

Heritage Rugby League’s mission is to foster greater participation from multicultural communities by promoting unity and understanding among culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) groups.

The funding will help raise awareness of rugby league participation opportunities, develop leadership within CALD communities, celebrate cultural heritage through sport, and strengthen social cohesion.

A key focus will be on forming teams that allow players to represent their ancestral backgrounds, including countries like India and China.

Additionally, efforts will be made to increase the participation of CALD women in various roles, including playing, coaching, volunteering, and leadership.

Minister for Sport

Steve Kamper said:

“Sport is a key part of the fabric of Australian

“Whether it’s kicking a ball at the local sports ground, swimming at the beach or playing cricket at the park, sport has the power to connect us all regardless of background.

“The NSW Government’s support of Heritage Rugby League aims to give people from multicultural communities the opportunity to participate in rugby league and build community connections which can be so important when you’re a new Australian.”

Ensuring a safe, inclusive and fun experience is essential for all people trying a new sport for the frst time so they want to keep coming back”

Heritage Rugby League President Javed Hamidi said:

“Our communities work tirelessly to provide people with the opportunities to celebrate culture and to represent their heritage through playing rugby league.

“This grant will provide opportunities to connect more deeply with CALD communities, grow multicultural participation, create leadership opportunities, and showcase role models for the next generation to follow.”

Last week, the Rainbow Region Dragon Boat Club (RRDBC), Lennox Head-Ballina, was awarded the prestigious Dragon Boat New South Wales (DBNSW) 2023-2024 ‘CLUB of the YEAR.’

On hand at the Sydney International Regatta Centre to accept the award from Kathy Cummings, president of the DBNSW Board was Carmel Smith RRDBC

• Masters Games in Adelaide - three bronze medals for Senior A Women 10s, Senior B Women 20s and Breast Cancer Survivor 10s

• Currumbin Regatta in October - two silver medals for the Women 10s and the Mixed 10s

• Coast2Coast Regatta at Kawana in November

– no medals received but did participate strongly in all race categories

vice president, who said “It was such an honour to be representing the club. This is an acknowledgement to us all, that we are such a strong club in so many ways.”

Smith summarises Cummings’ speech “It’s our well-run regatta, our growth, the strong support we receive from the community, and head coach Mary Davis’s support to local

• Broadwater Regatta in February – a bronze medal in the Open 10s

• Grafton Regatta in March – the Women’s 10s came in frst and the Open 10s team got a third. A third place was also gained in the 6km race on the Saturday

• Attempted to attend the NSW State Championships in April – 20 paddlers put their hand up and were

clubs and her position on the DBNSW Advisory Board.”

The award criteria was rigorous and recognised that the club is now one of the State’s largest (126 members), has a 20 year history, good governance, a schools program with Ballina Coast High and an inclusive 4 week “New Paddler Program.”

Whilst in the past year, Rainbow Dragons has

ready for racing and travelled to Sydney only to be disappointed at the cancellation of the event

• Kalang Regatta in May – a very successful regatta for the club placing third in the 100m Dash race, second in the 7.5km Marathon, frst in the Women’s 20s 200m fnal and third in the Women’s 10s fnal.

• Rainbows Regatta in August - the Rainbow

had representative competitors at regional level, provided volunteer offcials at regional regattas, and the club has competed at national masters, regional and interstate regattas.

President Lu Cooney said “What an honour to receive this recognition from DBNSW, for the commitment, positive energy and hard work from all members of our club.”

Women 10s team for the second year running won this category with the Brisbane Typhoon club team coming in second.

After the event, the Rainbows Team Manager was told by the Brisbane Typhoon Club Manager that this same Typhoon Women’s team had won the QLD State Championships earlier this year.

IAN ROGERS

Rainbow Dragons at Australian Masters Games, Adelaide, 2023.

Women’s 10s celebrate

LIAM JENNINGS

The Australian ultra-marathon runner Nedd Brockmann has concurred the ‘Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge’ a 1,600 km (1,000 mile) run which has raised over $3 million for Homelessness Charity We Are Mobilise.

Brockmann, the 25-year-old ex-sparky from Forbes, completed the challenge over 12 days, running in circles around the same 400m

running track at Sydney Olympic Park.

This however is not the frst great challenge that Brockmann has completed.

Back in 2022

Brockmann ran 4,000 km in 46 and a half days from Western Australia to Bondi, raising $1.85 million, again for We Are Mobilise to combat homelessness.

Brockmann was attempting to break a new world record in the ‘Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge’, however his injuries prevented him

from taking home the record.

Instead took home over $3 million in donations to combat homelessness.

Brockmann posted to his Instagram account on day 10 stating the extent of his injuries.

“As the tenth ‘day’ out here comes to a close, 1426 km chewed up. I’m stuck out here between a limp and a brisk walk. Alternating those every 200 metres.”

“I’ve had no function of my right ant tib since the end of day three, so I’ve been snapping

“(Sunny) obliterated the 18-year-old he fought,” said Smith.

There is no stopping the talent from Maddog Boxing, based at Meerschaumvale.

Sixteen-year-old Woodburn boxer Sunny Maclean recently won his lightweight division in the boxing State of Origin series, NSW vs QLD held at Lone Star Tavern on the Gold Coast a couple of weeks ago.

Sunny and the small team from Maddog, including coach, Scott Smith, were in enemy territory with the majority of the crowd backing their Queensland rivals.

That didn’t stop the small cohort from coming away from their fghts as winners.

“Although he fought

for NSW, because we fght in Queensland a lot, he has been picked in the Queensland team to fght

dictus band rubbers left right and centre. No sleep because the tendinitis everywhere punches me in the throat come rest time.” He continued.

But Brockmann was determined to keep on going.

“We are so much more capable than we think.” He posted.

“Sometimes, you need to have the courage to pursue something beyond your limits. Often, when something goes wrong or not to plan, we throw in the

towel and look for every excuse to get comfortable.”

“Stick with it, fnd a way, and fght to the very end, no matter the cost.”

So Brockmann pushed on, and on day 12 he completed the challenge, posting to his Instagram “12 days 13 hours 16 minutes and 45 seconds. Average 128 kilometres a day. 2.6 million raised for Aussies experiencing homelessness and counting.”

With a goal of raising $10 million

for combating homelessness, donations can still be made to help reach that target.

You can follow Nedd Brockmann’s journey by following his offcial Instagram account @ neddbrockmann.

To donate, please see the QR code below.

in the Australian titles in November at Gosford.”

The other boxers who came away as champions

include Baby Viane, from New Zealand who has only been in the country for eight months

and fghts in the super heavy weight division.

“We had everything against us and Baby was a last minute decision,” said Smith.

“We only had that day to prepare him and he ended up beating his opponent, Ben Gilman.

“It was one of the most exciting fghts I’ve ever been involved in.”

Other champions from the Maddog gym include 16-year-old Dylan Wright from Wollongbar who won his fght in the welterweight division.

Then there was Lui Mclean, also 16 and also from Wollongbar, who won the featherweight Queensland state title.

Smith laughed that he is getting asked what he is feeding his champions at the gym, because it is obviously working.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

Baby Viane and trainer Scott Smith

Sunny Maclean, Baby Viane, Jett Smith and trainer Scott Smith

Nedd Brockmann at the fnish line after conquering 1,000 miles. Photo by Marty Rowney, sourced from the Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge Instagram.

Nedd Brockmann pushing on at day 10 despite his injuries. Photo sourced from Nedd Brockmanns Instagram.