The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 225 by The Northern Rivers Times

Singer Shannon Noll Honoured with Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage

INSPECTOR PAUL COWLES REGION OPERATIONS MANAGER

VRA Rescue NSW Commissioner Brenton Charlton has awarded singer and performer Shannon Noll a Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage in recognition of his heroic efforts to save the life of a crash victim after a severe road accident.

The incident occurred at approximately 8:50 pm on Saturday, December 9, 2023, when a single vehicle veered off a rural road near Casino, Northern NSW. After colliding with a tree, the vehicle burst into fames, with both the driver and a passenger trapped inside.

With no formal rescue or advanced frst aid training, Mr. Noll approached the burning vehicle, managed to extract the passenger, and moved them a safe distance from the fames before beginning CPR on the unconscious individual. Shortly after,

NSW Police and VRA Rescue NSW crews arrived on the scene and took over with a

defbrillator and CPR. Tragically, despite the lifesaving efforts, both occupants passed away.

Without any personal protective equipment, Mr. Noll risked his own safety to provide every chance of survival for the trapped passengers. Commissioner Charlton acknowledged his bravery, stating that Mr. Noll’s quick actions in a challenging emergency were exemplary.

For his remarkable courage and leadership in a life-threatening situation, Shannon Noll has been rightfully recognized with the VRA Rescue NSW Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage.

Shannon Noll being presented with his award by VRA Rescue NSW Commissioner Brenton Charlton

Shannon with Family, VRA Rescue NSW Commissioner Brenton Charlton, Police and Casino Rescure Squad V.R.A.

Shannon with Family and VRA Rescue NSW Commissioner Brenton Charlton

Kyogle and Tweed mayors share their hopes and goals

Part two of our series on the new and re-elected mayors of the Northern Rivers.

In this section we talk to two re-elected mayors for Kyogle and the Tweed, asking them how they felt about the team they would be working with over the next four years, their priorities and what they hoped to achieve by the end of their term.

Kyogle

A familiar face has flled the role of mayor for Kyogle.

Cr Danielle Mulholland has been re-elected into the top chair and is ready to take the reins again.

She had previously been mayor between 2013 to 2021.

“I’m hoping we can come together as a cohesive team and work together to get the

best outcomes for our communities,” she said.

“It will take some time to get to know each other but I think the general vibe in the council is very positive and very focussed on the future.”

Cr Mulholland said the frst major priority was to appoint a permanent general manager and then they will be revisiting the sporting hub for Kyogle.

“This will be the Health and Wellbeing Hub,” she said.

“Clarence Way has a shortfall so we will need funding for that.

“We will be activating those relationships with state and federal governments and start on our priority projects which have been approved by council in conjunction with the community.”

Cr Mulholland said by the end of her term she would like to see the trust built between the elected body, council staff and the community.

“So that we will be walking ‘hand in hand’ when we approach funding partners,” she said.

“Our roads, along with

Clarence Way, need a bit of work so we will need funding for that.

“Mallanganee Observatory won an award for design, so extra funding would be good there, as well as for Woodenbong’s main street development.”

While the Bridge Renewal Program is ticking along, Cr Mulholland said local causeways also needed some work.

“The causeways need to be more robust, especially with extreme weather events,” she said.

“People get stranded and they need access in and out of their properties.”

Tweed Cr Chris Cherry is another familiar face who has taken on the role of mayor again and is happy with the council team that will be

working with her.

“We’ve got the exact same council re-elected,” she said. “That tells me the community is happy with the way council is going.

“They have voted for stability.”

Top of the priority list for Cr Cherry is affordable housing.

“It is such a desperate issue here,” she said.

“We need to do everything we can to get housing made affordable for key workers and for our kids in the future.”

By the end of her term, Cr Cherry said she would like to see all key workers safely housed and the area more resilient to natural disasters.

“In relation to housing, we have developed an affordable housing contribution scheme where developers will need to provide a

percentage of affordable housing in their plans,” she said.

“We are reviewing the housing development code and looking at using modular housing as a solution.”

Council is also working at supporting people to take up resilient homes packages to relocate from the food plain.

“We facilitate this by opening up areas that they can move to,” said Cr Cherry.

“We want people to stay in their communities and networks.”

Cr Cherry is looking forward to the next four years where council will work as a team to get things done.

“There is always a lot of high jinx around election time,” she said.

“But now I’d like to see us put it behind us and work together over the next four years.”

Cr Daniel Mulholland Cr Chris Cherry

SAMANTHA ELLEY

TIM HOWARD

A NSW Government planning body has knocked back another multi-million dollar development on the Yamba food plain.

The Northern Region Planning Panel, a determining body set up to oversee developments of $30 million or more of state and regional signifcant met last week to determine a DA for the $80 million Clifton Manufactured Home Estate at 110-120 Carrs Dr.

Over the weekend, the three-strong panel of chair Dianne Leeson and panel members Stephen Gow and Michael Wright rejected the DA unanimously.

The panel did not include anyone from Clarence Valley Council because the proximity in time of the local government election didn’t allow the council to meet the 14-day deadline for notifying the NRPP secretariat of who it had selected to sit on the panel.

It’s the second time in six months the NRPP has knocked back a development in the region.

In June the panel refused a $53 million 284 lot subdivision at Miles Street, Yamba, almost adjacent to the Clifton site.

NRPP rejects $80 mil DA on foodplain

The June decision was hailed as “historic” and “monumental” by community groups opposed to foodplain development in the region.

The panel supported an assessment of the DA from the Clarence Valley Council opposed to approval of it.

In announcing its decision the panel put out a release outlining its reasons for refusal.

“The Panel agrees with the Council assessment report that the proposed development is inconsistent with several clauses of Clarence Valley Local Environmental Plan 2011 (LEP), and related provisions of Clarence Valley Development Control Plan 2011 (DCP), or that insuffcient information was provided to enable detailed assessment.

This includes but is not limited to:

1. LEP Clause 5.21

Flood Planning – in particular food behaviour, food affectation, potential impacts of the development and associated flling proposed on other developments in the locality. Arrangements for safe food evacuation are a further concern, especially given the probable age and consequent mobility constraints/vulnerability

of likely residents of the estate.

2. LEP Clause 7.2

Earthworks – there is insuffcient information available regarding stormwater management for the development to determine whether the existing hydrological and water quality conditions will be maintained.

“The proposed development relies upon signifcant additional flling of the subject site. Insuffcient information was evident as to the approved source location for this and the environmental impacts of transport of the material to the site, nor of the impacts of the required flling operations on the site itself. Accordingly, the Panel could not be satisfed as to the environmental and amenity impacts of this

required flling activity as part of the project, having regard to the provisions of cl. 7.2 of the Clarence Valley LEP 2011 and s.4.15(1)(b) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

“The Panel is not satisfed that the impacts of the development on biodiversity values have been adequately accounted for in the Biodiversity Assessment Report (BDAR). The Panel is not satisfed that the proposed development has taken steps to avoid or minimise impacts of the proposed development on vegetated areas comprising Threatened Ecological Communities. A reduced development footprint would be less impactful.”

Six community

members addressed the October 23 panel meeting: Leslie Reeves, Robert Cairns, David Robinson, Lynne Cairns, Stan Cousins and Helen Tyas Tungal.

Mr Cairns represent the Yamba Community Action Network, Ms Tyas-Tungal represented Valley Watch, Mr Robinson represented residents of Grevillea Waters and Mr Reeves, Mr Cousins and Ms Cairns spoke as Yamba residents.

Yamba CAN chair Col Shephard was delighted with the ruling but said there had been nothing in the hearing that indicated the thinking of the panel members.

“The feature that’s to be observed is, of course, this is a new development down there, which going to require additional fll,” he said.

“And I think that sort of factor is probably what played heavily on the weight of the panel.

“We don’t know what they think, but we’ve got to remain optimistic. However, we have to be on our guard.”

Mr Shephard was not sure what the applicant for DA would do next, but he noted there was still a case on foot with the development in the Land and Environment Court.

“That’s been prevailing since about January, to my knowledge,” he said.

“And that’s because council didn’t reply to the DA in the time frame it was regarded as a deemed refusal.

“It was interesting, when the NRPP paperwork was presented last week, the deemed refusal didn’t appear on things on the summary.

Mr Shephard said it was impossible to know what to make of that.

“We don’t know, but see they’re listed again to appear on the November 1,” he said.

“But the interesting comment was the developer, who only spoke for a short period of time.

“You could see that he was going to some length to suggest they were really hopeful they were going to get the positive outcome in that meeting, rather than this.

“He said both parties would be incurring additional unnecessary types of expenses in the Land Environment Court.”

The applicant’s representative, Craig McGaffn, asked the panel to delay determination to allow the applicant to allow it to overcome some of the issues raising in the assessment.

The panel released its determination on October 25, two days after last Thursday’s meeting.

Janelle Saffin MP

The chair of Yamba CAN, Col Shephard, said the NRPP determination to reject the DA for 110-120 Carrs Dr, Yamba, was good news, but predicted this was not the end of the struggle to stop this development from going ahead.

What could be better than joining in on Ballina’s iconic Rotary Great Duck Race, which has been going for 30 years.

It is a great family fund day on the banks of the Richmond River and money raised goes to local and children’s charities.

Since it’s inception, the race has raised well over a quarter of a million dollars.

Causes which have been recipients in the past include local Surf Life Saving clubs, Biala Special School, SES, Marine Rescue, Heartfelt House, Ballina Men’s Shed, Summerland House, Paradise FM, Northern Rivers Animal Services and more.

This year, Rotary will be supporting:

· Dementia Inclusive Ballina Alliance

· Ballina Library Community Projects

· Australia Seabird & Turtle Rescue

· Ballina Lighthouse & Lismore Life Saving Club

As well as stalls, food and drinks and entertainment in Fawcett Park on Sunday, 10th November, the main event comprises a community duck race where 1000 plastic ducks will be released on the river and the frst past the line earns the “owner” of the duck a voucher from Harvey Norman for $500.

Second and third places will be rewarded with

cash amounts of $300 and $200.

Members of the public can buy a ticket for $5 (3 for $10) which are sold by Rotary members in shopping centre locations.

Tickets are also available on-line.

The ducks and the tickets are numbered and, if the number on the ticket matches the number on the winning/ placed duck, they get the prize.

However, the highlight of the day, and, by far the

biggest earner is the Best Dressed Duck event.

Businesses are invited to buy a corporate duck (much larger than the community ducks) at a cost of $80.

The business then decorates their duck to represent/advertise their wares and returns the duck to Rotary for judging.

These ducks are displayed in River Street for the public to see and to help promote the event.

A team of three judges

will judge them but all the ducks are displayed on the day where there is also a People’s Choice vote.

The winners of both Best Dressed Ducks get a perpetual trophy which can be displayed in the business.

Community Duck Race Tickets and Corporate Ducks can be purchased online: www.trybooking. com/CUQMI (no booking fees apply)

SAMANTHA ELLEY

Some of the corporate ducks from last year. Photo: Samantha Elley

Cheers to Beers at Frida’s

Field

SAMANTHA ELLEY

A great way to start the festive season will be held at Frida’s Field on Saturday, December 7 with the inaugural Cheers to Beers Northern Rivers Micro-Brewery Tasing and BBQ Feast event. Simply put, it is a collaboration of seven of the region’s best micro brewers including:

• Common People Brewing Co from Bangalow

• Seven Mile Brewing Co from Ballina

• Two Mates Brewing from Lismore

• Earth Beer Company from Cudgen

• Spangled Drongo Brewing from Murwillumbah

• Friday Hut Brewing from Murwillumbah

• Caldera Brewing & Blending Co from Murwillumbah Guests will arrive at 1pm and sample 13 different beers created by the micro-breweries, with a representative from each brewery

guiding guests through the tasting experience - from bouquet, aroma, palette, and minerality to undertone, tannins, mouthfeel and fnish.

There will be an amazing array of favours to be experienced, such as the tropical and citrus notes of Two Mates Brewing Lovemore Hazy Pale, to the toffee and dark chocolate of Earth Beer’s Dark Moon Brown Ale.

Interesting techniques and ingredients will also be on show such as the esteemed dry hop with RH01 from Ryefeld Hops used in Caldera Brewing’s Saison, which is also barrel-aged in a mixture of French oak puncheons and barriques.

Common People Brewing is even creating a completely new Frida’s Field beer, made with ingredients harvested from Frida’s Field, including galangal, mint, lemon myrtle and Atherton raspberries.

Once the beer tasting is fnished, guests will join long communal

tables and enjoy a shared American-style BBQ feast.

Wood-fred pork ribs with a Davidson’s Plum bbq glaze and smoked beef brisket pastrami with kraut and pickles will take centre stage; accompanied by smokey baked beans; cabbage slaw with chipotle aioli, wood-fred sweetcorn with jalapeño butter and cos lettuce with ranch dressing.

“We have always been really passionate about supporting local and showcasing the incredible produce of the Northern Rivers region,” said co-founder Jeanie Wylie.

“With the silly season approaching and people looking to celebrate the

Application for Appointment of Board Members

Bonalbo Showground Land Manager

Ever wondered who is responsible for keeping Crown reserves operating?

Countless facilities like showgrounds, local halls and parks are run by Statutory Land Manager Boards, made up of people just like you. People who understand the need and have a desire to manage public land and assets for the beneft of the entire community.

Your role as a Board Member is voluntary, but the rewards of giving something back to the community are priceless.

We are looking for a good mix of people with a variety of skills, however, sound business and fnancial management skills and objective decision-making expertise would be a distinct advantage.

Don’t let this opportunity to do something for yourself and your community pass you by – contact us today.

The Bonalbo Showground Land Manager manages the Reserve No. 540074 at Bonalbo notifed on 1-Feb-1929 for Addition, Showground, Reserve No. 540075 at Bonalbo notifed on 16-Jan-1931 for Showground, Addition, Reserve No. 540073 at Bonalbo notifed on 18-Feb-1927 for Showground. The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years.

Application for membership can be made via portal.crownland.nsw.gov.au

All applications are required to be lodged by 28 November 2024.

For further information contact: Chrissy Haslem on (02) 6642 9213 or go to reservemanager.crownland.nsw.gov.au

end of the year with their mates, we thought there couldn’t be a better time to create something really special - to bring together a group of amazing local micro-breweries and showcase their talent at brewing exceptional beers right here in the Northern Rivers.

“Taking some time-out to enjoy the simple good things in life together with others is such an important thing to do, especially at the end of what has been quite a challenging year for many of us.

“Our on-farm restaurant is the perfect little oasis to gather a group of people together to unwind while enjoying the incredible beauty of the

Byron Bay Hinterland.”

Ms Wylie said they wanted to foster a sense of community, so the idea of having a shared communal feast that compliments the beers was only natural.

And what about the unicorn drinking beer with a straw?

“Well, that was just a bit of fun!” laughed Ms Wylie.

Tickets, which include the beer tasting and lunch, are $50 per person and available via the events tab on the Frida’s Field website at www. fridasfeld.com.

Cans of beer will also be available to purchase on the day.

About Frida’s Field Frida’s Field is a

farm-to-table restaurant in the Byron Bay Hinterland. Housed in an architecturally-designed barn with stunning hinterland views, they run three set menu lunches per week on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The team was recognised with a 2023 & 2024 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Hat award. It is a small family-run operation, founded by husband-and-wife team, Edward Rawlings and Jeanie Wylie, who live on-site with their three young children and manage the farming, fnance and marketing aspects of the operation.

WILLIAMSON CONDEMNS MINNS LABOR GOVERNMENT’S PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE PREMIUM HIKE

Nationals MP for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has condemned the Minns Labor Government for voting in the NSW Parliament to increase private health insurance premiums, a move that will directly impact 36,899* residents of the Clarence and Richmond Valleys.

The Health Insurance Levies Amendment Bill 2024, passed by the Minns Government, will add $78 for single memberships and $156 for family memberships, representing a 4.1% increase in premiums for NSW participants. This comes at a time when families are already facing intense cost-ofliving pressures.

“This Bill is simple: it increases the tax on private health insurance, a tax unique to NSW,”

Mr Williamson said.

“During a cost-ofliving crisis, introducing a new state government tax is bad politics and

bad policy.

“Clarence and Richmond Valley residents will now face higher premiums, placing further strain on locals already grappling with rising expenses.

This health tax on hard-working families is a direct result of Labor’s budget mismanagement.”

Mr Williamson emphasised the toll on his community, noting the median household income of $58,817, with many families already struggling to maintain their private health insurance.

“Many families are hanging onto their private health insurance by their fngernails.

This new tax could push more than 70,000 people in NSW out of private health insurance, increasing demand on already stressed public hospitals and extending already long wait times for surgeries,” Mr Williamson said.

“The additional

fnancial burden will particularly affect elective surgery, with waiting times expected to rise from 69 days to 74 days, worsening the state’s standing, as NSW already has the longest waiting lists in Australia.”

In the Clarence electorate alone, private health funds have paid millions in benefts for essential procedures such as hip and knee replacements ($4.93 million), cardiology interventions ($2.19 million), glaucoma procedures ($2.52 million) and orthopaedic surgeries ($2.14 million).

“These numbers show how vital private health insurance is for locals,”

Mr Williamson said.

“The Minns Labor Government is out of touch with the realities my electorate faces daily. It’s time they take responsibility for the real cost of their decisions.”

Council meets again to reconsider naming pool complex

TIM HOWARD

Listening to the wishes of the Clarence Valley community over the naming of the new swimming pool complex in Grafton has proved harder than expected for local government representatives.

An extraordinary Clarence Valley Council meeting has been called for Tuesday this week (after The Northern Rivers Times’ deadline) to revisit the naming of the complex, decided at the last week’s ordinary council meeting.

At Tuesday’s meeting and after lengthy debate, council voted to:

1. Apply the Clarence Valley Council adopted 2024/2025 schedule of fees and charges for the Grafton Pool to the new Regional Aquatic Centre until 30th of June 2025.

2. Workshop a community opening event and bring back to November Ordinary Council Meeting.

3. Endorse “Clarence Regional Aquatic Centre” as the name of the new facility.

4. Endorse “Grafton Cub Scout Memorial Indoor Pool” as the name for the new indoor facility.

5. Endorse “Grafton Olympic Pool” as the

MacArthur was quite a lot,” he said.

He pointed to the army’s efforts in holding a fund raising rodeo which proved to be a massive shot in the arm for fundraising for the original pool project.

Mr Tranter was also concerned the families of the Scouts had not been consulted about a suitable name for the complex.

Deputy mayor Cr Greg Clancy was concerned about these failures in the council’s consultation process that he called for Tuesday’s extraordinary meeting.

its ability to respond to the fndings of public consultation.

The council sought the views of the public for a name for the pool and in the 765 responses 106 mention the pool name and more than 76% of those wanted some sort of direct reference to scout drowning.

The council did decide to name the 25m indoor pool part of the complex Grafton Cub Scout Memorial Indoor Pool, but Cr Clancy said this was not enough recognition for the event.

than 80 of the 106 responses did not want the Clarence Regional Aquatic Centre name, there would economic considerations.

“I think the body of the report outlines the reasons why staff have made an alternate recommendation, and as our as I outlined at our debrief last week, we are of the view that this is going to open up much more regional based events for and representing the LGA more broadly,” he said.

name for the new 50m outdoor pool.

During the debate it became obvious any decision would be controversial because the families of the 13 Scouts who drowned in the Clarence when returning from an outing to Susan Island in 1943 said they had not been consulted.

The tragedy inspired the Grafton Community to raise funds and build the Grafton Olympic Pool as a place for local children to learn to swim.

A plaque with the names of the Scouts who

died had pride of place at the old pool and has been retained to be placed in the new aquatic centre which is due to open in December.

And it was also revealed the Clarence River Historical Society was another relevant authority whose views had not been represented.

The society’s president Steve Tranter was concerned the council had ignored a lot of the history behind the original pool.

“The contribution of the American Army, through General Douglas

“I’m putting up a Notice of Motion to change the name that was approved on Tuesday to include the word Memorial in it,” he said.

Cr Clancy said because his NOM only sought to amend part of the motion, changing the name of the aquatic centre, a full blown rescission motion was not required.

“I was thinking of a rescission motion, but I read up the bit in the Code of Meeting Practice and found that because I was only amending a motion it wasn’t required.”

“Because of the Historical Society and the family members wanting ‘memorial’ in the name of the complex, I think we can accomodate them

Sure there are 106 responses out of 765 on Clarence Conversations regarding the naming.

But if we go Grafton Memorial, which it never was, you can tell you, prove that we’re going we’re not thinking big, and that’s what we need to do.

Debate last week revealed some constraints the council faced when naming the complex.

Cr Shane Causley was not impressed with the public consultation fgures, describing the number for of objections as a “splash in the ocean”.

But Cr Clancy said responses on social media dismissive of the name showed there was a depth of feeling in the community over the name.

“I know we have some constrains with the regional part of it, but I’m hopeful the councillors can see that we can include the word memorial in the name,” he said.

Cr Clancy said the council must improve

Council director works and civil Jamie Fleeting told the meeting that even though more

There will be a full report on the EGM in next week’s Northern Rivers Times.

Clarence Valley deputy mayor Greg Clancy has sought to get fellow councillors to have another look at the name chosen for the aquatic centre due to open in Grafton in December by call an extraordinary meeting this week.

At 111 Ken Weeks is our oldest person

111-year-old Grafton man Ken Weeks chats with the piper who played at his birthday celebrations at Whiddon Aged Care in Grafton on October 5. Ken is now Australia’s oldest person.

and has continued to add to his tally.

That Grafton’s Ken Weeks has learned how to enjoy a birthday should come as no surprise, after all he has celebrated 111 of them.

Now offcially Australia’s oldest person, Kenneth Loxton Weeks, celebrated his latest milestone on October 5, at Whiddon Grafton Aged Care Facility in the town where he has spent nearly his entire life.

As one of the last surviving witnesses to more than a century of history, Ken remains a symbol of resilience and longevity, continuing to engage with life even as his body has slowed down in recent years.

Ken, who has lived all but one of his years in Grafton, enjoyed a quiet family gathering to mark the occasion.

His son, Ian Weeks, described his father’s health and spirits as “remarkably good,” though the family did note Ken’s increased struggles with hearing and vision.

Despite these challenges, Ken maintains his independence and mental sharpness, still staying involved in the small but meaningful routines that have carried him through life.

Ken became a historical fgure in his own right, when he turned 111.

As Australia’s oldest living person, Ken surpassed 110-year-old Frank Mawer, who passed away in 2022 on the NSW South Coast,

According to Gerontology Wiki, Ken became the oldest person in Australia in June this year following the death of Olga Abate and ranks high on the list of living Australian supercentenarians.

As of his 111th birthday, Ken became the fourtholdest living man in the world, behind 112-yearold John Tinniswood, 111-year-old Josino Levino Ferreira and 111-year-old Ilie Ciocan.

It all began in the family home “Braylesford” in Dovedale Street on October 5, 1913, when Ken became a staple of the Grafton community for well over a century.

The eldest of fve children, Ken is now the last surviving member of his immediate family, as his two brothers and two sisters—each of whom also spent their formative years in Grafton—have since died.

The family was deeply embedded in the fabric of the area, with Ken’s sister, Marjory, raising her family alongside her husband, Mervyn Bultitude, on a farm at Carrs Creek.

Ken’s schooling began at Carrs Creek, where he shared a classroom with fellow centenarian Irene Crispin, who died in 2018.

His journey continued at Grafton High School, where Ken made headlines in 2012 for being the oldest surviving male student at the school’s centenary celebrations. He had

the honour of cutting the school’s centenary cake alongside the oldest surviving female student, Winifred Jeffries, another Grafton centenarian.

Sadly the much-loved Win died in 2020 at the age of 108.

Ken’s post-school career began with a job at Model Homes Company, working on road construction.

However, his mechanical interests soon took him to a service station in Brisbane, followed by a partnership with Charles Alvey in Grafton, where the duo operated a car dealership.

It was around this time, at the onset of World War II, that Ken took fying lessons in the hope of joining the RAAF.

Although he was not accepted for medical reasons, his contribution to the war effort was signifcant—he drove his own tip truck to help build critical airfelds at Nabiac, Coffs Harbour, and Evans Head.

It was during the war that Ken married Jean McPhee, a local woman from Swan Creek.

The couple went on to have two sons, Noel (now deceased) and Ian, both of whom were educated in Grafton before leaving the region for further education and work.

After the war, Ken opened a radio and electronics sales and repair shop in Prince

Street, Grafton, before transforming the business into a milk bar, which he and Jean ran successfully for several years.

His keen interest in radio and electronics continued, as Ken became one of the frst people in Grafton to build a television tower capable of receiving faint TV signals from Brisbane, enabling his family to watch television long before many of their neighbours.

In addition to his mechanical skills and business ventures, Ken harboured a love for sailing.

He built a VS class sailing boat in his grandmother’s garage in Greaves Street, which he raced against local champions like Salty Sellers in the late 1940s and 1950s.

This passion for boat building and racing became a cherished pastime that complemented his other varied interests.

In the 1950s, Ken and Jean purchased a house in Greaves Street, where they lived until 2016, when the home was resumed to make way for the construction of the new Grafton Bridge.

The event marked the end of an era, but Ken took it in stride.

He organised a garage sale, actively participating and making deals with customers,

all while moving about with the help of a change belt—a testament to his indomitable spirit.

Following the bridge project, Ken relocated to Clarence Street, where he lived independently until his mobility issues necessitated his move to Whiddon Aged Care, shortly after his 105th birthday. At Whiddon, Ken continues to enjoy regular walks, albeit within the confnes of the facility’s corridors rather than the streets of Grafton.

His son, Ian, said Ken remains mentally alert and engaged with life, even as his physical abilities have slowed.

Though his hearing and vision have deteriorated, making reading diffcult, Ken remains sharp.

Until recently, he actively maintained his share portfolio using a computer, a skill he taught himself.

For his 111th birthday, Ken enjoyed a small, intimate celebration with a couple of cousins who

joined him for lunch at Whiddon, while the staff and other residents also shared in his joy.

Though modest about his achievements and longevity, Ken’s legacy as Australia’s oldest man continues to inspire those around him.

As Ian said, “Dad doesn’t like a fuss, but he’ll enjoy a quiet celebration with family. He’s full of beans and knows what’s going on—he’s truly one of a kind.”

Looking to the Future At 111, Ken Weeks may not seek the limelight, but his remarkable life story—rooted in family, community, and a love for learning and adventure—serves as a testament to resilience and the enduring human spirit.

As Australia’s oldest living man, Ken stands as a living link to a century of change, yet remains frmly planted in the present, full of life and vigour.

TIM HOWARD

Iconic general store changes hands after 23 years

It is obvious when you walk down the main street of Lennox Head with David and Parvin Mansouri, they are very much a part of the community.

Many people greet them with a smile, most likely regular customers at the Mansouris’ general store, Seagrass.

But the time has come to pass the baton and the Mansouris have sold their store after 23 years to the O’Connell family, long time locals.

Originally from Iran, the Mansouris left their home country when it became an Islamic republic and women were forced out of education and the work force.

“My family taught me as a girl, you can go ahead,” said Parvin.

“That was a big lesson for me and I thank my mum because that vision, she put aside that girls cannot do anything.

“Always she encouraged me.”

Due to her family’s encouragement, Parvin went to on to become a qualifed microbiologist.

They left Iran after the revolution to go to Argentina and fnally arrived in Sydney where they worked for

13 years, Parvin as a microbiologist and David as an optical mechanic and raised their two boys.

Eventually, David suggested they move to Lennox Head to retire.

“I came here with a vision of retirement,” laughed Parvin.

“But David decided to start something new.”

David said they looked around to do something new as he felt there wasn’t much opportunity in his trained feld.

“(We started) looking around until we saw (the

everything.”

Parvin said she had to change her ideas on retiring and no longer working in her feld.

“My really big challenge was, now I have to face people,” she said.

Seagrass General Store) being run by Mavis,” he said.

“She agreed to sell the business (to us).”

They had no experience running a general store but they were quick to learn.

“It was very diffcult in the beginning, especially with the kids,” David said.

“The ordering system and the cash register which was not the right one.

“There was no scanning system, no record system. We changed

“Under the microscope is different, just you and your bacteria.

“At night I was memorising the prices and the next day I was seeing the customer and panicking.”

While Parvin found it challenging, at the same time she wanted to be part of the community.

“Without the help of the community I was absolutely nothing,” she said.

“Many times I said to my husband, ‘I’m tired, we can put (the shop) for sale’ then I was leaving home and seeing the

CASINO HIGH SCHOOL

• Comprehensive curriculum and subject choice

• Extensive vocational educational programs

• Extension course work

• Individual and whole school literacy and numeracy programs

• Adjusted teaching and learning programs to suit all abilities

• Boys and Girls Leadership camps

• Student support programs for learning and wellbeing

• Agricultural show team

• Inclusive cultural programs

customers, my goodness, I was getting more energy.”

Now their boys are grown up and the Mansouris are looking forward to really retiring and doing some travelling around Australia and looking after themselves after working seven days a week.

“I would like to thank my community,” said Parvin.

“They make me feel at home.”

Parvin recalls the time their shop caught fre about 10 years ago and people called the fre brigade.

“Otherwise within two minutes we could have lost everything,” said Parvin.

“They were really there to support us and I don’t know how to thank my

beautiful community.”

Patty and Brad O’Connell are now the new owners and very excited to carry on the iconic name of the Seagrass General Store.

“The community is one of the reasons why we bought the store,” said Patty.

After a career in the Department of Community and Justice and the army respectively, Patty and Brad wanted to leave behind their professional lives for quality living.

“We were both professionals and just wanted to integrate into our community and bring the kids up in a balanced environment,” said Brad.

“I remember Seagrass as an institution in Lennox Head and now we have the chance to run it.”

Parvin and David Mansouri.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

Kerbside EV Charging Launches in Ballina Shire

In a boost for regional EV infrastructure, EVX has installed a new kerbside charging station in Ballina Shire. Located at 44 Cherry Street in the Ballina CBD, this dual EVX Polecharger brings convenient, locally manufactured charging to residents and visitors. The station is situated near popular destinations, including the Northern Rivers Regional Art Gallery, shops, and cafes, providing an alternative to highway rapid charging by allowing users to charge while exploring the town.

EVX CEO, Andrew Forster, highlighted the growing demand for accessible EV charging in bustling regional towns like Ballina, especially during peak holiday times.

“Ballina is a popular destination, yet charging

infrastructure hasn’t kept pace with demand,” Forster said. “We are thrilled to be part of the solution, expanding EV charging in Ballina Shire and across regional Australia.”

Ballina Shire Council Mayor,

Sharon Cadwallader, expressed the Council’s commitment to sustainability through partnerships like this one with EVX and Essential Energy. “This collaboration refects our dedication to achieving 100% renewable

electricity usage and net-zero emissions as an organization by 2030. The EV charging station supports our community in reducing greenhouse gas emissions while inviting visitors to explore our CBD and support local businesses,” Mayor Cadwallader said.

The Ballina kerbside charger is part of a wider alliance between Councils, EVX, and utility networks, with EVX chargers already installed in Byron Bay, Hawks Nest, Port Macquarie, Newcastle, and Sydney. This infrastructure provides an easy-to-install and effcient option for regional areas, helping to tackle charging bottlenecks and support

underserved by EV infrastructure, leading to concerns around range anxiety.

“The rise in EV sales is promising,” Forster commented, “but if regional infrastructure lags, EV drivers face challenges in longerdistance travel, and regional residents may be less incentivized to switch to EVs.”

EVX’s kerbside chargers offer smart, AC charging with minimal impact on the grid by integrating into

the rising number of EV users in Australia.

Regional Charging Essential to Address Range Anxiety

The Australian Automobile Association’s EV Index shows that battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles accounted for 9.6% of new light vehicle sales in Q2 2024, but many regional areas are still

existing power pole infrastructure. Designed to meet Australian regulations, these chargers enable a swift, cost-effective rollout across rural and urban areas, bridging the EV infrastructure gap in regional communities.

For more information on EVX’s kerbside chargers, visit EVX.com. au.

Help Save Our Shorebirds: Stay Off the Dunes!

With the shorebird breeding season in full swing, Byron Shire Council, in partnership with Marine Parks, National Parks and Wildlife Service, and Byron Bird Buddies, is urging beachgoers to stay off the sand dunes and avoid disturbing nesting birds along the Byron coastline.

“We were thrilled to see a pair of critically endangered Beach stone-curlews nesting at Clarkes Beach. With only 13 breeding pairs in NSW, this is a signifcant moment,” said Chloe Dowsett, Coast and Biodiversity Coordinator. “Their nest is simply a small area of scraped sand. We’ve fenced it off and installed signs to alert people to stay clear. These birds are incredibly vulnerable, as they only lay one

egg, and the chick depends on both parents for up to 12 months.”

On other beaches, species like Spotted Pardalotes and Rainbow Bee-eaters have been spotted nesting in the dunes. Byron Bird Buddies even rescued baby Bee-eaters from an exposed dune area being damaged by trampling.

“All these birds are easily disturbed by human activity, particularly by walkers, joggers, and dogs,” Ms. Dowsett added. “We’re

asking everyone to be mindful and protect these precious species.”

How You Can Help:

1. Stay near the water’s edge in the intertidal zone.

2. Avoid dunes and steer clear of fenced-off nesting areas.

3. Walk dogs only in designated areas to protect vulnerable birds. By following these simple guidelines, you can play a crucial role in ensuring these endangered shorebirds thrive during the breeding season.

Diary of a Flood Survivor

It’s amazing the things you see outside your offce window.

This particular day it was a scissor lift that was helping transport our new solar panels onto the roof.

With a house full of adults, the energy requirements have increased markedly, so we looked into getting a solar battery as we already had eight panels on the roof.

Once we got over the cost of buying said solar battery, we decided we would replace our 12-year-old panels instead and increase the number of them.

A much more economical choice.

Now, when it is a sunny day, we get solar energy from our 15 new panels as early as 6am, all the way to 6pm.

A good solid 12 hours of sustainable energy, with the remainder going back to the grid.

It’s only been a couple of days, but I look forward to seeing a decrease in our energy spend.

The next money saving

Application for Appointment of Board Members

Wyrallah Flood Refuge Reserve Land Manager

Ever wondered who is responsible for keeping Crown reserves operating?

Your role as a Board Member is voluntary, but the rewards of giving something back to the community are priceless.

We are looking for a good mix of people with a variety of skills, however, sound business and fnancial management skills and objective decisionmaking expertise would be a distinct advantage.

Don’t let this opportunity to do something for yourself and your community pass you by – contact us today.

The Wyrallah Flood Refuge Reserve Land Manager manages the Reserve No. 53248 at Wyrallah notifed on 4-Apr-1919 for Refuge In Time Of Flood. The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years.

Application for membership can be made via portal.crownland.nsw.gov.au

All applications are required to be lodged by 28 November 2024.

For further information contact: Chrissy Haslem on (02) 6642 9213 or go to reservemanager.crownland.nsw.gov.au JS0028

project I want to tackle is the water tank.

Since the food, it has been disconnected from the house as the water moved it a few inches from its normal resting place.

I’d say it needs a good clean inside and out.

***

Does anyone else look at old photos pre-food and really take in the background to remember what items they lost? No? Only me? My laptop background has old photos rolling over all the time and sometimes I just pause in

my work to look at them.

But I’m not just looking at the people in the foreground, I am also looking at the furniture, the knick knacks, the books, the candles, the television (which fell over and smashed in the water), even the kitchen cupboards, for goodness’ sake.

It’s one thing to eventually get rid of an item because it has passed its used by date. It’s another thing to actually grieve items that were taken from you too soon.

Little steps.

Historic rental reforms

So here we are in November already, and it’s that time when the momentum seems to speed up towards the end of the year. It’s the season for Year 12 Formals, and I send my very best wishes to all Year 12 students as they complete their schooling and go out into the world.

In Parliament it is also a busy time and I have some news about signifcant legislation that we passed in the October sittings.

The Minns Labor Government has just passed the most signifcant rental reforms in over a decade.

This historic legislative package follows our election commitment to improve rental laws, and it strikes the right balance between the interests of owners and renters.

More than 2.2 million renters across the state

including the large number of local renters will soon enjoy these benefts:

• No grounds evictions will be banned

• Rent increases will be limited to one per year

• It will be easier to have pets in rentals

• Fee-free ways to pay rent

• A ban on paying for background checks when applying for a property

Housing is the biggest cost people have and we know how hard it can be for young people and families, for pensioners and people on low incomes facing consecutive rent hikes and unfair evictions. These reforms make the system fairer and more compassionate.

Private Health Insurers must pay:

The NSW Parliament Government has passed legislation addressing the refusal of private health

insurers to pay their public hospital bills.

Privately insured patients often go to public hospitals and the extra insurance they pay usually covers them for a private room. But some private health insurers have been paying less than half the daily cost of a bed for a patient in a public hospital.

A number of insurers are doing the right thing, but the big four- BUPA, HCF, Medibank Private, NIB are among those not paying their bills.

The refusal of the biggest private health

funds to pay the correct single room rate has been robbing public hospitals of $140 million a year. This has been happening since 2019, and in that time the major funds have doubled their profts.

In our region its estimated that private insurers have shortchanged the Northern NSW Health District by around $24.5 million. Welcoming essential workers to our region It is about to get easier for local organisations to attract essential workers, with the introduction of

the Welcome Experience to our region.

The Welcome Experience is a program that was successfully piloted last year in a handful of regional towns – to help essential workers and their families move to regional NSW. The program helped hundreds of essential workers make the move to the regions, including 346 health workers 110 educators and 42 police staff.

The program has now been extended to Tweed, Lismore, Ballina, Byron and Richmond

Valley, with Regional Development Australia (RDA) Northern Rivers as the host agency.

Host agencies ease the way for essential workers to settle into their new community by helping them with housing and information about local schools and amenities, joining sporting clubs and building social connections and friendships.

This is about helping our region attract and keep the workers who are essential to the services we need.

Byron CoLab opens on old Byron Bay Hospital site

Five years after community representatives and Council put a case to the NSW Government to gift them the old Byron Bay Hospital site on the fringe of the CBD, the new Byron CoLab on Arakwal Country was offcially opened today (25 October 2024).

“When the Byron Central Hospital opened at Ewingsdale the community was insistent that the old hospital site continue to be used for the health and well-being of local people and not be sold for commercial proft,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said.

“To be here today with those community representatives and Ben Franklin, President of the NSW Parliament, who successfully took the case to the NSW Government, is such an example of what can be achieved with vision and trust and intent,” Mayor Ndiaye said.

Council bought the hospital for $1 from the NSW Government, and gratefully received State and Australian Government grants totalling $2.7 million, provided for the redevelopment of the existing buildings.

While Council retains ownership of the site,

it is now managed by Social Futures, a not-for-proft community service organisation that has supported the Byron Shire for more than ten years.

Social Futures CEO, Tony Davies, said the revitalised site is emerging as a dynamic community space in the heart of town.

“True to the

community’s signifcant contributions and long held vision for this project, Byron CoLab on Arakwal Country is a place of connection and opportunity,” said Mr

Davies.

“The centre provides much needed offce space and communal areas for community service providers, businesses, educators, health providers and the arts, with profts invested back into local groups and community projects.

“As custodians of this special place, our partnership with the community advisory group remains essential to its successful management and we are excited to see the space being embraced by the local community,” Mr Davies said.

Janelle Saffn celebrating International Day of Rural Women on October 15 with women from the NSW Labor parliamentary team

From left to right are Tamara Smith (Member for Ballina), Sarah Ndiaye (Byron Shire Mayor), Justine Elliot (Member for Richmond) and Ben Franklin (President NSW Parliament).

Richmond Tweed Regional Library’s Lauren Tearle wins the 2024 USU New Gen Committee and Active Super Apprentice/ Trainee of the Year Award

Richmond Tweed Regional Library is proud to announce that Lauren Tearle, Trainee Library Assistant, has been recognised for exceptional dedication and achievement in both their studies and professional role as the recipient of the 2024 USU New Gen Committee and Active Super Apprentice/ Trainee of the Year Award. Lauren has recently completed Certifcate III in Library and Information Services, demonstrating a strong commitment to her future in the library profession through her outstanding performance in this degree.

Beyond their academic accomplishments, Lauren has made a signifcant impact in

the workplace. As a young union member, their exemplary work ethic and proactive attitude have earned

them widespread recognition. Lauren’s award nomination received overwhelming support from colleagues

Get Healthy Service Encourages Northern NSW Residents to Enjoy the Outdoors this Spring

As the warmer weather arrives, the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) is encouraging the community to take advantage of spring by getting outdoors and improving their health and wellbeing. Elayne Mitchell, NNSWLHD Health Promotion Manager, highlighted the many ways residents can get active and make the most of the local environment.

“Spring is a fantastic time to explore your area, whether it’s checking out a local park run, walking the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, visiting a waterfall, or joining a local exercise class,” Ms. Mitchell said. “Another great option is signing up for the free Get Healthy Service, which offers personalised support to help you make positive lifestyle changes.”

The Get Healthy Service is a free, phone and online coaching program available to residents aged 16 and over across Northern NSW. The service provides tailored support to help people achieve specifc goals such as increasing physical activity, improving diet, or reducing alcohol consumption. The coaches—qualifed dietitians, nurses, and exercise physiologists— work with participants to create achievable goals, like walking for 30 minutes three times a week.

“It’s ideal for anyone wanting to improve their diet, increase physical activity, or even manage weight gain during pregnancy,” Ms. Mitchell added. “Our health coaches empower people by focusing on what matters most to them, ensuring they

are invested in their goals and more likely to succeed.”

The service has received excellent feedback, with more than 95% of participants reporting satisfaction with the program.

The Get Healthy Service also provides additional support for Aboriginal participants, bilingual coaches in Cantonese and Mandarin, and interpreter services through the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS). For those who are deaf or hard of hearing, the service is accessible via the National Relay Service.

To spring into action and join the Get Healthy Service:

• Call 1300 806 258, Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, or Saturday from 9am to 5pm.

• Register online at gethealthynsw.com.au.

with six nominations submitted—double the required number.

Lauren’s nominators said, “Lauren is an

enthusiastic and willing worker, happy to accept any challenge with a positive attitude. She is fun to work with, has

great customer service skills, and a strong willingness to learn”, and “Lauren brings a positive outlook to the workplace. She is a keen, fast learner with excellent people skills and has quickly become a favourite with customers”.

The United Services Union New Gen Committee in partnership with Active Super recognised Lauren as a very deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Lauren’s contributions and dedication exemplify the values of both the union and Richmond Tweed Regional Library. Lauren will continue to make a positive impact on the library service, having secured a permanent position as a Library Assistant.

BREASTSCREEN NSW VAN COMING TO KYOGLE

The BreastScreen NSW mobile screening van will be open for screening at the Kyogle Memorial Hall in Stratheden Street, Kyogle from 4 to 14 November. Bookings are open now.

BreastScreen NSW provides free breast screening to women to support the early detection of breast cancer.

Patrick Magee, Acting Director of BreastScreen North Coast, says a regular breast screen is one of the most important things women can do for their health.

“Detecting breast cancer early increases your chance of survival while reducing the likelihood of invasive treatment, such as mastectomy or

chemotherapy.

“Around 90 per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history. This is why breast cancer screening is so important for all eligible women,” Mr Magee said.

Bringing a BreastScreen NSW van to Kyogle makes it easier for women to attend their recommended twoyearly screening.

“Life gets busy and we want women to make their health a priority.

Bringing these vital services to Kyogle means more local women can be screened. It’s fast, it’s free and it could save your life.”

An appointment with BreastScreen NSW is free, takes less than 20 minutes and no doctor’s

referral is needed.

• All women are invited by BreastScreen NSW to screen every two years from age 50.

• Any woman with a family history of breast cancer should discuss their specifc needs with their GP.

• Anyone with breast symptoms should contact their GP or health worker without delay.

The mobile screening van is equipped with a lift system to support women with health conditions or disability to have their mammogram. Women with additional needs are encouraged to let us know when booking their appointment.

To book a free mammogram, visit book.breastscreen.nsw. gov.au or call 13 20 50.

L-R Kyle Loades Independent Chair Active Super, award recipient Lauren Tearle, Graeme Kelly OAM General Secretary USU, and Sharon Sewell Vice President USU

GROW A MO

Patchy, lopsided, itchy or epic – whatever Mo you grow this Movember, your face will raise funds and awareness for men’s health.

WHERE THE MONEY GOES

MAKE A MOVE

Commit to running or walking 60km over the month, at your own pace. That’s 60km for the 60 men we lose to suicide each hour, every hour across the world.

FAMILY MAN MENTAL HEALTH

Family Man is a free, online parenting program designed by experts with dads in mind. The interactive website uses evidence-based strategies to help men tackle the often hairtearing moments of being a parent. By equipping men with practical tools to deal with parenting’s ups and downs, Family Man aims to increase their confdence as a parent. With practice and consistency, research shows Family Man results in less-stressed parents, and a more peaceful home environment where teamwork, quality time and good mental health thrive. familyman.movember. com

GROW A MO

MOVEMBER 2023

HOST A MO-MENT

Rally a crew and do something fun and easy. Hosting is all about having a good time for a good cause.

AHEAD OF THE GAME MENTAL HEALTH

Ahead of the Game uses sport to teach young players, parents and coaches how to talk about mental health. The program shows participants how to spot the signs of mental health issues, what to do and when to get support. Kids learn how to build resilience and overcome challenges in sport and life, setting them up with the skills to look after their mental wellbeing now and into the future. aheadofthegame.org.au

The Wispy One, the Patchy One, the Oddly Sexy One, the Filthy One…even the worst moustaches start the best conversations. Use your face to help raise funds and awareness for men’s health. Whatever you Grow will save a bro. https://au.movember.com/register

MO YOUR OWN WAY

Create your own challenge – it can be anything. A gruelling test of physical endurance or something else entirely. Your epic eforts will help change the face of men’s health.

TRUE NORTH PROSTATE CANCER

An information-rich online resource, True North’s mission is to transform how men living with and beyond prostate cancer receive care, make informed decisions and manage symptoms to improve their quality of life and health outcomes. The innovative website aims to achieve this by providing straight shooting information, access to useful digital resources, facilitating connections to helpful tools and services, and ofering reliable, relevant and accessible support and guidance for men, and their partners and/or caregivers. truenorth.movember.co

FUNDRAISE AT YOUR WORKPLACE

Forget regular team building activities. Movember has them beat.

Doing Movember at work is a great way for you and your workplace to champion men’s health. Not only is it

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

NUTS & BOLTS TESTICULAR CANCER

For young guys diagnosed with testicular cancer, life changes a lot, and it changes fast. Nuts & Bolts is designed to help these guys feel like they’ve still got their feet on ground. A relevant, reliable, straight-talking source of information to ease uncertainty and equip men with what they need to feel calm and informed. Nuts & Bolts’ mission is to ensure every guy going through testicular cancer knows they’re not alone, and that they have every chance of getting back to living a happy, healthy and long life. nutsandbolts.movember. com

loads of fun – it also brings people closer together, drives employee engagement and boosts job satisfaction.

Why get involved

Work isn’t all about work. Connection between colleagues matters. So bring the whole team closer through moustaches, movement and fun.

Taking on Movember at your workplace is perfect if you’re looking to: Have fun and build

camaraderie among your teammates.

Start important conversations around men’s mental health and wellbeing for 30 days.

Unite your company across teams and locations for a shared purpose.

Ignite friendly competition with suppliers, clients, or industry rivals.

Raise lifesaving funds and awareness for a cause that affects everyone.

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

PERCEPTIONS

& ASSUMPTIONS on CATS & C.W.A.

‘Mum Jane’ walked in to nd me & my buddies reading intently; we had a Dictionary, esaurus & a book on ‘Interpreting Human Language’ (‘Leemo Cat’ back). Her words & tone of voice indicated HER snarky mood. ‘As a matter of interest, what are you lot wasting time on now?

I trust it is working out how much you each owe me due to the damage you caused at the Lismore Show. WELL?’ Hmmm? I’ll have to respond! ‘Mum, just listen! We are looking up the word ‘Assumption’ Gottit? Maybe you can help us ‘cos you’re so clever & stu ?’ ‘Leemo, quit the sucking up blarney and tell me WHY you’re studying this word in particular? As none of you, in practice, do anything without your own self-interest at heart, I’m kinda curious; out with it!’ Good Grief! ‘Well, Mum, we heard a neighbour (who dislikes Cats) talking yesterday; they said ‘Most Cats are a dumb waste of space and an annoying worthless nuisance.’ How awfully rude! Why make assumptions about cats, other pets or humans for that matter? Some cats may well be regarded as just ‘Moggies’ but it should be noted that a ‘Moggy’ is a cat which has not been intentionally ‘Designer’ bred. So, Mum, we are all true & proper Cats, not arti cially manmade created versions. AND, the reality is that ‘Moggies’ give joy, fun, friendship & purry love to millions of humans.’ (Crikey! She looked intrigued.)

‘Hmmm. I understand your concerns guys, but shall I put a wee quiz to you which might help! ALL paws were raised! Righto! ‘When you see the words ‘Rock Star’ what does your brain perceive?’ ‘Brutus’ went rst. ‘I think of Harry Belafonte.’ (‘Brutus is 91 in cat years!) (Mum said ‘Hmmm!) OK, next. What does your brain perceive when you see the word ‘Scientist?’ I was next. ‘Well Mum, I think of a short man in a bow-tie, lab coat, neat shoes, middle part hair & wearing peery cocacola glasses’ (Another ‘Hmmm!) ‘OK, I’ll move on. What do you perceive when you read the words ‘CWA Member?’ (Oh Lordy..strife ahead!)

‘Flu y Bum’ spoke up. ‘I think of a kindly looking plumpish elderly grey haired lady in a oral frock with a self made crochet collar & a our smeared apron, proudly holding scones for her 23 grandchildren.’ Mum yelled this time.

‘You’re wrong on ALL counts, specially your dumb assumptions of an atypical CWA Member. You lot & the silly neighbour don’t see there’s a di erence between perception and assumption. An assumption, sadly, believes a fact, vision or statement to be true without proof. Perception is regarding, interpreting and understanding something based on acknowledged fact! Did you the CWA was founded in Australia in 1922 by an amazing lady called Ruth Fairfax. Members in Australia today are aged from their 20’s to their 90’s? ere are over 8000 members in NSW alone from 400 branches. Some CWA Members even sport Tattoos, play Trombone, have purple buzz haircuts & run huge businesses in between raising money for women & children all over Australia. So, the lot of you, chuck your idiot assumptions out; go study PERCEPTION, then come back & help me chop stu for Pickles I’m making for the next CWA stall. GOTTIT!!

We all gured it wise to run & just keep running like Forrest Gump. (ANYthing other than Pickle making. Blerrk!) Nitey; ½ purrsies this week. Leemo & Buddies.

Kevin Hogan tackles the beer excise with our local pubs

Regional pubs and clubs play an important part in our communities, but constant tax hikes are putting them under immense pressure.

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan this week met with Australian Hotels Association (AHA) members and local pub representatives in Lismore.

“Pubs are important gathering places – in rural and regional communities, going to

the pub for a meal and a beer can be the only social interactions some people have. Not being able to afford this can affect people’s mental health,” Mr Hogan said.

“The excise on beer increased by 11 percent in 2023 alone, meaning 60 per cent of the cost of packaged full-strength beer and 47 per cent of mid-strength beer is now comprised of tax,” Mr Hogan said.

“Local pubs are

currently charging around $8.60 for a schooner of Tooheys New, if these increases continue, we are on the path to a $10 schooner.”

“The excise on spirits has risen 17 per cent since 2020, with up to 63 per cent of the cost of an average bottle of spirits comprised of tax.”

“Successive, biannual increases in beer and spirits excise on alcohol now sees Australia having among the

highest excises in the world.”

“I believe the excise is now untenable and is putting at risk the viability of our local pubs, and in regional and rural Australia that is a big deal.”

“I encourage the Albanese Labor Government to provide immediate cost-ofliving measures for the domestic beer and spirits industry.”

Award-Winning Northern District Exhibits Seeking New Manager

IAN ROGERS

Since 1876, the District Exhibit Displays have been a standout feature of the Sydney Royal Easter Show, with four districts competing annually for the prestigious District Exhibits Perpetual Shield. For the frst time, the Northern District Exhibits Committee is seeking a part-time Manager for a paid position to oversee the planning, execution, and coordination of the Northern section’s produce competition and display in the lead-up to, and during, the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

The Northern District spans a large area, from the Queensland border to Brewarrina in the west, and down to Walgett and Coffs Harbour in the south.

President of the Northern District, Brian Winter, said the ideal candidate should possess strong leadership skills and have experience or familiarity with the agriculture sector.

“Ideally, we are looking for someone who already has a connection to the Northern District or has the ability to foster and strengthen relationships within the district, as well as with the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW,” said Mr. Winter.

“The District Exhibits are the heart and soul of the Sydney Royal Easter Show. Over the years, this vibrant community has become a close-knit network. This role offers a unique opportunity for someone to build a career, contribute to an iconic event, and be part of a dedicated team.”

In addition to the managerial role, the Northern District is also offering a variety of volunteer opportunities for the 2025 Sydney Royal Easter Show. Volunteers can choose their preferred level of involvement, assisting with key tasks that support the produce judging and the district’s agricultural display.

“Volunteering provides individuals with the chance to contribute their skills to a largescale event while also learning from expert judges and growers. It’s an opportunity to gain insight into agriculture and produce exhibition, while forming lifelong friendships with others who share the same passion,” added Mr. Winter.

For more information on the Manager position or volunteer opportunities, please visit the website: Join the Northern District Exhibit Family.

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan, Cath Simes (Mary G’s Lismore), Sean Morrissey (AHA NSW Deputy Chief Executive Offcer), Daniel Simpson (Rod n Reel, Woodburn), Michael Bulmer (Charcoal Inn Casino), Darren (Northern Rivers Hotel, Lismore), John Hayden (Woodenbong Hotel), Brad Crouch (Civic Hotel, Lismore), Gavin Brown (Wollongbar Tavern), Shadow Minister for Regional Development Darren Chester, and Annie Shoemaker (Local AHA Representative).

Stay and Christmas shop in BRISBANE

Book now for Christmas Holidays

Bookings still available for December & January

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

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

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

- WIFI

- your own Parking for 1 car

- Balcony with seating

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

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

Samantha’s Book

Community feedback informs future housing and employment opportunities in the Tweed

Moby Dick

Title: Moby Dick

Author: Herman Melville

Price: $22.90

Distributor: Booktopia

By Samantha Elley

This classic novel is for anyone who is an afcionado of all things cetaceous. That is, a whale lover.

At times the book reads like an encyclopaedia of the many different classes of whale and dolphin from the 1850s.

But that shouldn’t hide the fact there is a very daring adventure within its pages.

Ishmael is a sailor and he is also the narrator of this tale.

It is a story of obsession and vengeance; the story of a man who would attempt at all costs to take revenge on the animal that literally tore him apart.

The man is Captain Ahab, master of the whaling ship Pequod and the animal is the giant white sperm whale, nicknamed Moby Dick.

Many years earlier, Ahab had lost his leg to Moby Dick on another shipping expedition and this time, he was out to destroy the

IAN ROGERS

magnifcent creature.

Ishmael describes life on board a whaler that leaves New York in search of proft, along with an array of characters who help make up the story.

They include Starbuck, a Nantucket Quaker, Queequeg, a tattooed Polynesian cannibal and happy-go-lucky Stubb, to name a few.

The captain rules over them all and reveals his purpose of revenge which strangely becomes that of Ishmael’s.

Their adventures are many and the reader learns plenty about life on the ocean in the mid-19th century.

Then, like all good stories, the climax comes when Ahab gets his wish and comes across his object of revenge, his sole purpose for breathing over the past months.

What happens next is for the reader to fnd out, suffce to say, early prophesies made to Ahab and the sailors were the red fags they should have noted.

Moby Dick was not going down without a fght.

You can get your copy of this ‘whale’ of a classic at www.booktopia.com.au

A plan to address the growing population of Tweed Shire and the associated demand for housing and employment opportunities is advancing, with an Options Paper on the Growth Management and Housing Strategy set to be fnalized later this year.

The Options Paper has been shaped by extensive community consultation that took place in March and April 2024. Over 1,200 residents participated across a variety of sessions, including four information sessions, nine drop-in opportunities, and two online meetings held throughout the Shire.

Denise Galle, Director of Planning and Regulation, emphasized the need for a diverse range of housing to meet the evolving demands of the growing and aging population. She noted that the Options Paper will play a key role in guiding the development of the housing and employment land strategy, with further opportunities for community input during the next stage of the project.

The engagement process was one of the

most comprehensive ever undertaken in Tweed Shire, with discussions held at local markets, shopping centres, and presentations to key stakeholders. Information was also disseminated via local media, social media, and targeted newsletters. Faceto-face presentations were conducted with business groups, advisory committees, development industry stakeholders, ratepayer groups, and community forums. Residents also shared their views via an online survey, highlighting the high level of community involvement.

“We’d like to thank everyone who provided feedback on how they envision the future of Tweed,” Ms. Galle said. “With more than 635 submissions, the community’s interest has been invaluable, offering crucial insights into housing needs and preferences.”

The Options Paper proposes changes that focus on increasing housing diversity and density in existing populated areas, as well as identifying growth opportunities for rural and greenfeld sites. Considerations included:

• Development near public transit hubs,

open spaces, retail, and employment opportunities

• Reducing car dependency and traffc congestion

• Mixed-use developments combining residential, commercial, and recreational spaces

• Rural village

confdence that the Strategy would address the future needs of Tweed Shire.

“This Strategy aims to ensure sustainable growth and improve liveability for all residents over the next 20 years, while creating employment

expansion and housing options

• Key worker accommodation locations

Key themes raised during community consultations included concerns about fooding, maintaining local character and amenity, rural housing expansion, and managing the impacts of growth on traffc and parking.

Ms. Galle expressed

opportunities closer to home,” she said.

Once the Options Paper is adopted by Council, it will serve as the foundation for a Draft Strategy, which will be open for community feedback in 2025.

To stay informed and follow the progress of this important project, register at yoursaytweed. com.au/futuretweed. Your voice matters!

Extensive community feedback has been incorporated into the Growth Management and Housing Strategy Options Paper which is expected to be fnalised later this year.

Growth Management and Housing Strategy infographic.

Expanded Support Program to Help Essential Workers Relocate to Northern Rivers

Essential workers will now receive greater assistance in relocating to the Northern Rivers, thanks to the expansion of the successful Minns Labor Government initiative, The Welcome Experience. This initiative aims to make it easier for local organizations to attract and support essential workers as they settle into new communities.

Originally piloted in 2023 across regions including Broken Hill, Muswellbrook, Bega, Walgett, Coffs Harbour, and others, The Welcome Experience has been so effective that it has been extended to 55 Local Government Areas. The latest expansion includes the Northern Rivers, with the program now available in Tweed, Lismore, Ballina, Byron, and Richmond Valley, thanks to the involvement of new host agency, Regional Development Australia (RDA) Northern Rivers.

As part of the initiative, host agencies assist essential workers by helping them integrate into their new communities. This support includes forging social connections, accessing childcare and schooling, joining local sports clubs, and even fnding employment opportunities for partners. The program has already successfully relocated 665 essential workers and their families to regional NSW, including 346 health workers, 110 educators, and 42 police staff.

The expansion into the Northern Rivers aims to replicate the success seen in other regions where the program has been rolled out.

New locations, such as Dubbo, Port Macquarie,

and Kiama, have already begun onboarding Local Connectors and engaging their communities to tailor the program to local needs.

RDA Murray has reported a strong response since the expansion, with essential workers inquiring about relocating to areas like Albury. RDA Program Manager Karin Willcox has assisted two nurses and their families from New Zealand, arranging everything from airport pickups to securing childcare and furniture for their new homes.

Ministerial Support for the Expansion Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, praised the initiative, saying:

“Our government is focused on ensuring regional NSW receives the services it needs, and attracting essential workers is critical. The Welcome Experience has a proven track record of helping workers settle into new communities, and we look forward to seeing this success continue in the Northern Rivers.”

NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn, added:

“I congratulate RDA Northern Rivers on being selected as the host agency for this vital

REMEMBERING COWPER: HONOURING LIVES LOST & FIRST RESPONDERS 35 YEARS ON

The Cowper Bus Memorial, where a plaque was erected by

gratitude to the frst responders, including doctors, nurses, paramedics, and SES volunteers, who bravely confronted the unimaginable.

“The emergency personnel who attended the scene are heroes, and their efforts saved lives that morning. But the trauma they endured is something that remains with them to this day.”

initiative. We need to attract and retain more essential workers, and this program offers the support they need to successfully relocate and integrate into our communities.”

A Comprehensive Welcome for Essential Workers

Anthony Schreenan, Director of Regional Development for RDA Northern Rivers, highlighted the importance of community integration:

“The Welcome Experience supports essential workers throughout their relocation journey, from deciding to move to settling into life in the Northern Rivers. It’s about more than just fnding a house or school – it’s about becoming part of the community and building lasting connections.”

RDA Northern Rivers will also provide a Local Connector service to guide essential workers through the relocation process, offering assistance with fnding housing, accessing schools, and navigating community services.

The expansion of The Welcome Experience promises to enhance the Northern Rivers’ ability to attract essential workers while fostering strong, connected communities.

On the 35th anniversary of the tragic Cowper bus crash, Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson has paid tribute in a Private Member’s Statement in the NSW Parliament to both the victims and the frst responders who attended the devastating scene on 20 October 1989.

The crash, which claimed the lives of 21 people and left 22 injured, remains one of Australia’s worst traffc disasters.

Mr Williamson refected on the heartbreaking incident, sharing his personal recollection of hearing the news as a 15-yearold and acknowledging those who lost their lives.

“Tonight, we

remember the lives taken too soon, and the families forever changed by the events of that terrible morning,” Mr Williamson said. The victims included Angus Bristow, Anita Elloy, Alwyn Fenton, Cecilia Howard, David Hutchins, Willam Liddy, Vicki-Lea McGrath, Leslie Ormesher, Gavin Ormesher, Nadine Ormesher, Martin Ormesher, Jannine Ormesher, Jennifer Smedley, Kelly Watson, Robert Westlake, Winifred Westlake, Norman White, Elizabeth Wisley, Shaun Wisley, Pauline Zammit and unborn Baby Bradford whose names will never be forgotten.

Mr Williamson also extended his deepest

The crash not only left a deep scar on the community but also prompted urgent calls for the duplication of the Pacifc Highway. The coronial inquiry into the disaster highlighted the highway’s hazardous condition, laying blame at the feet of the then Hawke and Greiner governments for failing to act sooner.

“While the highway has since been duplicated, the scars of Cowper have never fully healed in our community,” Mr Williamson said.

“We honour the memory of those who perished, and we will always remember the heroes who responded on that fateful day.”

Help Save Our Shorebirds: Stay Off the Dunes!

and installed signs to alert people to stay clear. These birds are incredibly vulnerable, as they only lay one egg, and the chick depends on both parents for up to 12 months.”

“All these birds are easily disturbed by human activity, particularly by walkers, joggers, and dogs,” Ms. Dowsett added. “We’re asking everyone to be mindful and protect these precious species.”

How You Can Help:

1. Stay near the water’s edge in the intertidal zone.

2. Avoid dunes and steer clear of fenced-off nesting areas.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Clarence Valley Council on the 25th anniversary, bears the inscription by then Mayor Richie Williamson: “This plaque marks the 25th Anniversary of the tragic Cowper bus crash. Despite the passing of time, the thoughts and prayers of the people of the Clarence Valley remain with all those who suffered.”

Culture defined… by Nigel Dawe

WHEN it comes to culture, ask 100 randomly selected people what it means, and you’ll most likely get 100 different answers. But without a sense, semblance or appreciation of culture, the human being of today wouldn’t be all that removed from its cave-dwelling, clubwielding ancestors.

In 1949, with the smoke of WWII only just starting to clear, the Nobel Prize-winning author T. S. Eliot published a small work titled Notes Towards the Definition of Culture. And like a bright timely beacon of considered reason, Eliot explained, “Culture is not merely the sum of several activities, but a way of life… It gives an importance to our most trivial pursuits, to the occupation of our every minute. Culture may even be described simply as that which makes life worth living.”

As such, there have been numerous occasions where I have gained a very deep appreciation of the role culture plays, in not just helping to enhance the beauty of my own life, but those of others. Some years ago, I was invited to give a speech to the Bengali Association of NSW to commemorate the 145th anniversary of India’s greatest cultural figure – Rabindranath Tagore. But after I concluded my talk, the then mayor of Calcutta charged towards me to give the biggest hug and slap on the back I’ve ever received. I realised then, that culture at its most felt and refined, is something that isn’t just given shallow lip service, it is something that is intangibly lived, expressed, shared and shown.

Relatedly, the American actor and businessman, Wendell Pierce once stated, “The role of culture is that it’s the form through which we as a society reflect on who we are, where we’ve been, where we hope to be… Culture is the intersection of people and life itself.”

It is also a celebration, the ultimate celebration of the things that make us who we are – in ourselves and the place we occupy in time – as mere custodians of the virtues, achievements and qualities of all who precede us.

The origin of our modern-day word for ‘culture’ is derived from the old Latin term ‘colere’, which means to care, inhabit, or till – as in to literally cultivate or enable something to grow. The Roman thinker Cicero is believed to have first used the expression “cultura animi” in around 45BC to explain the development of a philosophical soul. Which somehow captures the very essence of what being cultured represents to those that still appreciate, if not discern, what it is when they see it. Or as Henry Van Dyke once said, “Culture is the habit of being pleased with the best and knowing why.”

Personally, the thought of anything being considered cultured in any substantial way, is deeply intertwined with the domains of literature and art; they have been my go-to places to learn, grow, take shelter, and know about life – my whole life long. I’ve always been on the same page, I think, as Thomas Wolfe who once so wonderfully said, “Culture is the arts elevated to a set of beliefs.”

Residents are invited to provide feedback on a draft Plan of Management for the Salt Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) in Kingscliff, which proposes to allow the venue to host functions and suggests changes to the categorisation of surrounding community land.

Established in 2004 on Council-owned community land at Salt Village, Kingscliff, the Salt SLSC serves the local community, and its management is now under review.

The draft Plan of Management for the Salt SLSC and adjacent parkland is currently on public exhibition from Wednesday, 23 October 2024, until Wednesday, 4 December 2024, and residents are encouraged to provide their input.

Key Proposals in the Draft Plan

Compared with the current Plan of Management, the new

draft proposes the following:

• Reducing the land categorised as General Community Use to the building footprint of the Salt SLSC.

• Reclassifying the adjacent parkland under the Park category.

Administration Offce, Tweed Heads.

Registrations are essential to attend the public hearing. You can register online at yoursaytweed.com.au/ saltslsc.

keen to hear community feedback on the idea of allowing functions at this venue.”

“I encourage everyone to submit their feedback in writing or register for the public hearing to ask questions and stay informed.”

• Providing clear guidelines on the use of the Salt SLSC building for functions.

Public Hearing and Community Involvement

Local residents, businesses, and members of the wider community are invited to a public hearing to learn more about the proposed changes:

• Date: Wednesday, 6 November 2024

• Time: 5:30 pm start

• Location: Harvard Room, Tweed Shire Council’s Tweed Heads

Tweed Shire Council’s Manager of Parks and Active Communities, Murray Smith, encourages the community to engage with the draft Plan, learn more, and express their views.

Submission Process

“Feedback sought on new draft Plan of Management for club”

“The proposed reclassifcation of the community land surrounding the Salt SLSC building to Park will align it with the rest of the Tweed Shire,” Mr. Smith said.

“Under the existing Plan of Management, the Salt SLSC building cannot be used as a function centre. We are

The draft Plan of Management adheres to the Local Government Act 1993, providing guidelines for managing community land to ensure it meets the community’s recreational, cultural, social, and intellectual needs. Following the public exhibition period, Council will review submissions and present a report for potential adoption of the draft Plan.

To learn more, register for the public hearing, read the FAQ, or make a submission by Wednesday, 4 December 2024, visit yoursaytweed.com.au/ saltslsc.

An aerial view of Salt Surf Life Saving Club at Kingscliff. Residents are invited to provide feedback on a proposal to allow the club to host functions included in a new draft Plan of Management for the facility.

Labor’s vaping prohibition is resulting in more crime

Last week’s suspected arson attack on a tobacconist in Ballina is exactly why we need a regulated vaping model.

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said The Nationals’ introduced a policy more than a year ago, to protect our children and reduce organised crime.

“Labor’s prohibition model continues to expose children to organised crime and continues to see harmful unregulated vapes across our communities,” Mr Hogan said.

“In contrast, our model will stop criminals from exploiting our children, protect our children from vapes, and ensure we know what is in vapes.”

“Illegal activity involving vapes and tobacco is continuing to rise, and people are also inhaling ingredients they have no information about.”

“The Coalition’s strictly regulated model under the TGA will ensure there is controlled licencing to over 18s, whilst keeping it illegal to under 18s, similar to cigarettes. We would also invest $250 million for the policing and law enforcement of vapes.”

“Importantly, by regulating this product,

the Government would receive excise revenue which could also be put back into health and education.”

“Prohibition hasn’t worked. Less than 10 per cent of Australians who vape have a prescription and Labor’s announcement will only help the black market continue to grow.”

EVANS HEAD COMMUNITY LEFT AT GREATER RISK AGAINWILLIAMSON

Nationals MP for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has called on the Minns Labor Government to explain why the Evans Head community was again left without ambulance cover, following the closure of the Evans Head Ambulance Station overnight from Tuesday, 22 October into this morning.

Mr Williamson described the situation as “unacceptable,” noting this is the second time in the past two weeks that the station has been taken offine, increasing the risk to the local community during potential health emergencies.

“Paramedics rostered at Evans Head have once again been reallocated to other stations across the Northern Rivers, leaving the Evans Head station without paramedic cover during

a busy shift. The community deserves better,” Mr Williamson said.

While expressing his full support for paramedics, Mr Williamson stressed the need for immediate action.

“Our paramedics are working hard, but they’re exhausted. Morale is plummeting, and the increased workload has stretched both paramedics and the system to breaking point.”

Mr Williamson also highlighted the unfulflled promises of the Minns Labor Government.

“They promised 500 new paramedics for regional NSW, but not a single one of these promised positions has been delivered to the Richmond or Clarence Valleys. It’s no wonder the system is failing— paramedics are doing

all they can, but they’re being let down by the government.”

Mr Williamson is calling on the government to take immediate steps to ensure the Evans Head Ambulance Station remains operational and that paramedics in the Northern Rivers region receive the support they need to continue delivering critical services.

“I will be writing to the NSW Minister for Health urgently requesting an explanation and immediate action to address the closure of the Evans Head Ambulance Station,”

Mr Williamson said.

“Our community deserves answers and a guarantee that this critical service will be available when it’s needed most.”

Grants Available for NSW Councils to Hire 1,300 Additional Apprentices and Trainees

IAN ROGERS

Councils across New South Wales can now apply for grants to employ over 1,300 new apprentices, trainees, and cadets as part of the Minns Labor Government’s $252.2 million investment in strengthening the future of the local government workforce.

The Fresh Start for Local Government Apprentices, Trainees, and Cadets Program is the largest state government initiative in recent history aimed at directly hiring apprentices in local councils.

The program aims to boost the local government workforce by 15%, focusing on metropolitan, rural, and regional councils

across NSW. The 1,300 new roles will provide vital skills and training opportunities in felds such as plumbing, childcare, carpentry, mechanics, landscaping, and urban planning, helping councils address their unique workforce

needs.

Councils will have the fexibility to determine their workforce priorities and apply for funding based on the roles they wish to fll. The grants will cover wages for apprentices, trainees, and cadets for up to six years,

supporting councils in building a sustainable, skilled workforce.

Applications will be assessed based on merit, and the funding will be administered by the Offce of Local Government. The frst round of successful

applicants is expected to hire new staff in early 2025.

All 128 councils, county councils, and joint organisations are eligible to apply for the frst round of grants. Guidelines and submission details are

now available, and councils can submit their applications via https://olg.nsw.gov.au/ apprentice-trainee until 8 November 2024.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“Apprenticeships provide young people with the chance to learn a trade and work in roles where they can make a direct impact on their communities. This signifcant investment by the Minns Labor Government will help build a sustainable workforce for the future, reversing outsourcing trends and keeping council jobs in councils where they belong.”

“A stronger local government sector means stronger communities, so I encourage all councils to apply as soon as possible.”

NHVR Enhances Heavy Vehicle Safety with Mobile ANPR Cameras

ROBERT HEYWARD

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is advancing safety across Australia’s freight network with the deployment of mobile Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras in all NHVR jurisdictions. These high-tech cameras are designed to gather crucial data on the nation’s heavy vehicle feet and promote safer driving practices along key freight routes.

NHVR Acting Chief Operations Offcer Michelle Tayler emphasized the role of this cutting-edge technology in enhancing road safety:

“The NHVR has invested in 40 mobile ANPR camera devices, which are now being utilized by our Safety and Compliance Offcers (SCOs) through roadside trailers and vehiclemounted cameras.”

The ANPR cameras automatically detect the number plates of passing

heavy vehicles, allowing SCOs to quickly identify and address potentially high-risk behaviours and unsafe practices. This system strengthens compliance and enforcement efforts while making roads safer for everyone.

“By adopting a risk-based approach to compliance, these cameras improve the effciency of monitoring compliant heavy vehicles, contributing to overall road safety,” Ms. Tayler added.

One of the key benefts of the mobile ANPR cameras is their fexibility. They can be deployed in various locations, with a focus on the busiest freight routes to maximize monitoring capabilities. Currently, the cameras are operational in South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Queensland, and soon, New South Wales.

“This initiative is part of the NHVR’s broader strategy to enhance safety across Australia’s

freight networks while ensuring the heavy vehicle industry remains both productive and effcient.”

The NHVR also clarifed that ANPR cameras are distinct from speed cameras.

Being detected by an ANPR camera does not automatically result in a fne. Instead, if a camera fags a potential highrisk journey, an NHVR SCO may intercept the vehicle for safety checks.

Footage captured by the cameras is securely stored in line with NHVR privacy policies and is used to inform and shape on-road safety activities.

“Our ongoing investment in advanced technology like mobile ANPR cameras highlights our commitment to improving road safety for all drivers,” Ms. Tayler concluded.

For more information about mobile ANPR cameras, visit the NHVR website.

Country Music Fans Kick Up Their Boots on the Gold Coast

highlighted the festival’s growing popularity:

The Gold Coast was alive with the sounds of country music this past weekend as tens of thousands of country music enthusiasts gathered for the Groundwater Country Music Festival (CMF) in Broadbeach. With live music, beachside line dancing, cornhole, and country markets, the festival transformed the area, flling restaurants, cafes, and venues with fans eager to experience three days of unforgettable entertainment.

Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn

“Every year this unique beachside country festival gets better, offering fans an unparalleled live country music experience. With Groundwater CMF a staple on the city’s calendar for over 11 years, it continues to attract fans from across Australia and overseas, injecting more than $11 million into the Gold Coast economy.”

Festival Director Mark Duckworth noted the festival’s diverse appeal:

“This year’s lineup delivered an incredible experience for seasoned country music fans and newcomers alike. The

energy of the music took over the Gold Coast, and I don’t think anyone in Broadbeach over the past three days could resist falling in love with country music.”

New to the 2024 program, beachside line dancing proved a huge hit with fans of all ages, alongside the cornhole and country markets. Over the weekend, 55 artists performed across 12 stages, offering a variety of country music genres, from Bluegrass to rockabilly, folk to pop, and everything in between.

Some of the festival highlights included performances from iconic Australian artist

Shannon Noll and Gold Coast’s own Adam Brand. Fans were also captivated by Ella Hooper’s heartfelt tribute to the legendary Linda Ronstadt. International acts such as Nashville legend Jim Lauderdale, Canada’s Jess Moskaluke, Gord Bamford, and Tim Hicks, who performed at Groundwater CMF for the frst time, added to the global appeal of the event.

Tim Hicks expressed his excitement about playing outside of Canada:

“Performing at Groundwater CMF is unbelievable. Country music fans are the best in

the world, and no matter where they’re from, there’s a shared love for great music.”

Rising country star Max Jackson refected on the uniqueness of the festival:

“There’s no other festival like this in Australia where you can enjoy country music, dance in your boots, and then take a dip in the ocean. It’s a special place for artists at all stages of their careers to showcase their music.”

The festival closed with a memorable performance from Australia’s multi-awardwinning country star Kasey Chambers, leaving fans eager for the 2025

event. The Groundwater Country Music Festival will return from 17 to 19 October 2025.

The success of Groundwater CMF 2024 was made possible thanks to its sponsors, including the City of Gold Coast, Tourism and Events Queensland, Gold Coast Airport, EVENTelec, Clean Vibes, Griffth University, the Yugambeh Region Aboriginal Corporation Alliance (YRACA), KIX Country, 102.9 Hot Tomato, ABC Country, Countrytown, and charity partner Farm Angels.

Shannon Noll under The Kurrawa Big Top - Photo by Mackenzie Sweetnam

Tim Hicks - Photo by Mackenzie Sweetnam

Festival Fans - Photo by Mackenzie Sweetnam

Ella Hooper - Photo by Mackenzie Sweetnam

Gord Bamford - Photo by Mackenzie Sweetnam

Cornhole - Photo by Mackenzie Sweetnam

ROBERT HEYWARD

LIAM JENNINGS

KitchenAid has launched its latest product for coffee enthusiasts: the KES6551 SemiAutomatic Espresso Machine. This new release brings a sophisticated, yet user-friendly experience to home espresso brewing, combining advanced features with KitchenAid’s signature durable design.

One of the standout features of the KES6551 is its integrated burr grinder. This conical grinder ensures consistent grind sizes, which is crucial for achieving a balanced extraction. Whether users are making a single or double shot, the grind size is a key factor in delivering a favourful espresso, and the KES6551 simplifes this process by including a high-quality, built-in grinder.

Adding to the convenience, KitchenAid has introduced its “Smart Dosing Technology” with this model. This technology automatically dispenses the precise

LIAM JENNINGS

The eufyCam S3 Pro is Eufy’s latest advancement in home security cameras, offering a range of enhanced features designed to provide comprehensive surveillance.

Exceptional Night Vision with MaxColor Vision™ Technology

A standout feature of the S3 Pro is its MaxColor Vision™ technology, which delivers vivid, full-color footage even in complete darkness, eliminating the need for additional lighting. This is achieved through a 1/1.8-inch CMOS sensor, an F1.0 aperture, and an AIpowered image signal processor.

High-Quality Imaging

The camera records in 4K UHD resolution, ensuring sharp and detailed video capture. It features a 135-degree

amount of coffee grounds needed for each shot, taking out the guesswork from the preparation process. For those who are newer to espresso brewing, this feature is particularly benefcial, as it helps achieve professional

results with minimal effort.

The machine comes equipped with a 58mm

grounds, ensuring an even extraction. The portaflter’s design makes it easy to use,

impressive feature.

Whether making a creamy cappuccino or a velvety latte, the steam

portaflter, designed with ease of use in mind. Its fat base and recessed spouts allow for stable and consistent tamping of the coffee

even for those unfamiliar with the fner points of espresso-making.

For milk-based coffee lovers, the multi-angle steam wand is another

wand’s adjustable angles allow users to position it for the perfect frothing, offering professionalquality foam.

The KES6551 is also

feld of view and supports up to 8x digital zoom, allowing for extensive coverage and the ability to focus on specifc areas of interest.

Reliable Solar Power System

Equipped with SolarPlus™ 2.0 technology, the S3 Pro offers continuous security by harnessing solar energy. The

built-in solar panel can keep the camera fully charged with just an hour of direct sunlight daily. An external solar panel is also included for installations in areas with limited sunlight exposure.

Advanced Motion Detection

The dual motion detection system combines radar and

passive infrared (PIR) technologies to accurately identify human movement, signifcantly reducing false alerts caused by environmental factors such as wind or animals.

Seamless Smart Home Integration

The S3 Pro is compatible with Apple HomeKit (including HomeKit Secure

designed with time effciency in mind. Thanks to its fastheating technology, the machine quickly reaches the optimal brewing temperature, ensuring that users don’t have to wait long for their coffee. This feature enhances its appeal for busy households, where convenience is as important as quality.

Visually, the KES6551 maintains KitchenAid’s signature sleek, metallic aesthetic. Its metal-clad construction ensures durability, while its compact design fts comfortably in kitchens of various sizes. The espresso machine also comes in several colour options, allowing it to blend seamlessly into different kitchen decor styles.

With its blend of automated features, manual control, and stylish design, the KitchenAid KES6551 Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine is positioned as a strong contender for coffee lovers who want to bring barista-quality brewing into their homes.

Robust Outdoor Performance

Designed for outdoor use, the S3 Pro features IP67 weatherproof protection, enabling it to withstand various weather conditions, including rain, dust storms, and extreme temperatures.

Video), Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant, allowing for fexible integration into various smart home ecosystems.

Local Storage and No Monthly Fees

For users in Australia, the eufyCam S3 Pro is available for purchase through Eufy’s offcial website and major retailers. Pricing starts at approximately $799 AUD for a two-camera kit, including the HomeBase S380.

Overall, the eufyCam S3 Pro represents a signifcant advancement in home security technology, offering high-quality imaging, innovative night vision capabilities, and seamless integration with smart home systems, all without recurring fees.

Footage is stored locally on the HomeBase S380, which comes with 16GB of onboard storage, expandable up to 16TB. This setup ensures your data remains private and eliminates the need for monthly subscription fees.

2025 Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition

The 2025 Mahindra XUV700 has garnered attention for being a strong contender in the Australian SUV market, particularly with its value-for-money pricing and robust feature set. Here’s an in-depth review based on its key aspects:

Performance:

The XUV700 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that delivers 149kW of power and 380Nm of torque. This engine offers smooth acceleration and solid performance, particularly suited for urban and highway driving. While the six-speed automatic transmission is generally

well-matched with the engine, the absence of an all-wheel-drive option in Australia might be a drawback for those needing more off-road capability.

Design and Comfort:

The XUV700 stands out with a bold, modern design. The Black Edition, in particular, adds a touch of luxury with its all-black exterior, 18-inch alloy wheels, and premium black leatherette interior. The SUV has a commanding road presence with its large grille, sleek LED headlights, and arrow-tip LED taillights. Inside, the cabin feels spacious, offering enough room for seven passengers, and the panoramic sunroof enhances the airy feel.

Comfort is a highlight, thanks to ventilated front seats and the advanced multi-link suspension with Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) technology, which provides a smooth ride over different road conditions.

Technology:

A standout feature of the XUV700 is its dual 10.25-inch highdefnition displays, serving as both a digital driver’s display and infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard across all variants, and the fagship models beneft from added luxuries like a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, and an upgraded 12-speaker Sony sound system. The

infotainment interface is user-friendly, and the Black Edition also includes tech-savvy additions like memory functions for the side mirrors and ventilated seatsSafety:

Mahindra has packed the XUV700 with numerous safety features, such as seven airbags, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning, and lane-keep assist. The inclusion of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) on the AX7 L variant further elevates the safety credentials of this SUV.

Verdict:

The 2025 Mahindra XUV700 offers excellent value for those seeking a family-friendly SUV

with plenty of features at a competitive price. Its bold styling, extensive safety features, and high-tech interior make it a strong contender in the seven-seat SUV market, especially for buyers looking for a balance between performance and comfort without breaking the bank.

However, the lack of an all-wheel-drive option and a petrol-only engine lineup may limit its appeal to those seeking off-road capabilities or better fuel effciency. Despite these minor drawbacks, the XUV700 remains a solid option for families and tech enthusiasts alike.

Prices start at around $36,990 for the base AX7 variant, going up to $43,990 drive-away

for the premium Black Edition model. This seven-seat SUV offers a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 149kW of power and 380Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and frontwheel drive.

The Black Edition, launched as a special variant, brings exclusive styling with a Napoli Black exterior, 18-inch black alloy wheels, ventilated front seats, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a panoramic sunroof. It also includes advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera, making it a highly competitive family SUV in its class.

2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe: Price and Specs

BMW has revealed the updated 2025 2 Series Gran Coupe, which brings subtle design tweaks, updated technology, and a range of engines to keep it competitive in the compact luxury sedan market. The four-door coupe continues to be a popular choice for those seeking BMW’s performance and refnement in a compact package.

Key Specifcations:

• Variants: 218i, 220i, M235i xDrive

• Starting Price: Expected to range from around $58,000 AUD for the entry-level 218i to around $80,000 AUD for the top-spec M235i xDrive.

Engine Options:

1. 218i:

o Engine: 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo-

petrol

o Power: 103kW

o Torque: 220Nm

o Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic

o 0-100 km/h: 8.7 seconds (estimated)

2. 220i:

o Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol

o Power: 141kW

o Torque: 280Nm

o Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic

o 0-100 km/h: 7.2

seconds (estimated)

3. M235i xDrive:

o Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol (all-wheel-drive)

o Power: 225kW

o Torque: 450Nm

o Transmission: 8-speed automatic

o 0-100 km/h: 4.9 seconds (estimated)

Features and Technology:

• Infotainment: 10.25inch touchscreen with BMW’s latest iDrive 8 system, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

• Digital Cockpit: 12.3inch digital instrument cluster for customizable driving data display.

• Safety: Standard safety features across the range include forwardcollision warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and rear cross-traffc alert.

• Interior: Sporty seats with premium materials, ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control are standard across all variants.

Design Updates:

• Refreshed front and rear bumpers.

• Slimmer, sharper LED headlights and taillights.

• New alloy wheel designs ranging from 17 to 19 inches.

• M Sport models feature additional aggressive styling cues with a more aerodynamic front bumper and sportier side skirts.

Performance and Driving Dynamics: The M235i

xDrive is the performancefocused model, offering BMW’s xDrive allwheel-drive system for better grip and handling, along with larger brakes and a sport-tuned suspension. The 218i and 220i models feature frontwheel drive, providing a balance of effciency and agility for daily driving.

Expected Australian Pricing (estimated):

• BMW 218i Gran

Coupe: $58,000 AUD

• BMW 220i Gran

Coupe: $65,000 AUD

• BMW M235i xDrive

Gran Coupe: $80,000

AUD The 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe continues to deliver a blend of style, performance, and luxury in the compact sedan segment, with new technology and design enhancements appealing to BMW enthusiasts.

Available colours include:

• Alpine White – nocost

• Black Sapphite –$1800

• M Portimao Blue –$1800

• Skyscraper Grey –$1800

• Thundernight Purple – $1800

• Storm Bay – $3500

• Frozen Pure Grey –$5000

• Frozen Portimao Blue

– $5000

JEFF GIBBS

Bank Impersonation Scams: How to Stay Safe

There has been a significant rise in scammers pretending to be from your bank, aiming to steal your money. These criminals may contact you via phone, email, or messaging, claiming to be from your bank’s fraud department and stating there’s an issue with your account.

How the Scam Works:

• Scammers may use technology to make it appear as though the call or message is from your bank.

• They often claim your account has been compromised or there’s a suspicious transaction, asking for personal or financial details, or requesting that you transfer money for “security purposes.”

• They may also ask for one-time security codes or other sensitive information.

How to Spot the Scam:

• You may receive an unexpected call, email, or message asking for personal information or bank details.

• The scammer may create a sense of urgency, telling you there’s a problem with your account and urging you to transfer money to “keep it safe.”

• Legitimate banks will never ask you to transfer funds or give out security codes over the phone.

What You Can Do:

• Do not use any phone numbers provided in the message or call.

• Verify the caller or sender by contacting your bank directly through a number

Qantas Financially Better Off Despite Potential $350 Million Compensation Bill, Says Lawyer

ROBERT HEYWARD

found on your banking app, bank website, or bank statement.

• Hang up immediately if someone claiming to be from your bank requests a money transfer.

• Avoid clicking on any links in messages or emails, even if they look like they’re from your bank.

Steps to Stay Protected:

1. STOP: Don’t give out money or personal information. If you’re unsure, hang up or delete the message.

2. CHECK: Contact your bank using a trusted method to verify if the message or call is legitimate.

3. PROTECT: If you’ve given personal details or transferred funds to a scammer, contact your bank immediately and report the incident to Scamwatch.

If You’ve Been Affected:

• Contact your bank immediately if you’ve lost money.

• Report identity theft or seek recovery support from IDCARE at 1800 595 160.

• Report scams to Scamwatch and share your experience with friends and family to help protect others.

National Anti-Scam Centre:

The National AntiScam Centre works to protect Australians by leveraging shared resources and data analytics to combat scams and prevent them before they happen.

To learn more about avoiding scams or to report one, visit the Scamwatch website.

Qantas faces a substantial compensation bill of up to $350 million after a Federal Court ruling, but a legal expert has stated that the airline still made a financially advantageous decision in illegally standing down ground crew workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Monday, Federal Court Justice Michael Lee ordered Qantas to compensate the 1,700 workers who were unlawfully stood down in August 2020. The compensation will cover both economic and noneconomic losses, with payouts varying based on emotional distress.

Three test cases provided by the court awarded $30,000, $40,000, and $100,000 to the affected workers, depending on their individual circumstances.

However, Justice Lee also agreed with Qantas’ submission that the workers would have likely been dismissed a year later. As a result, compensation for lost income will be capped at 12 months’ pay.

While the Transport Workers’ Union (TWU) has estimated the total compensation bill to exceed $100 million, Dan Trindade, a workplace relations lawyer from Clayton Utz, believes the final figure may be considerably higher.

“Looking at the figures, the compensation could

be as much as $100,000 per employee, depending on their earnings at the time. This could total around $170 million in economic loss alone,” Trindade explained.

“When you factor in non-economic loss, based on the court’s test cases, the total could match that amount, bringing the overall compensation to between $300 million and $350 million.”

Despite this significant payout, Trindade said that Qantas will still come out ahead financially.

“From a financial perspective, what Qantas did was the right decision. The evidence presented to the court suggested the airline would save around $580 million over five years by standing down the workers. While they didn’t achieve all the savings they aimed for, they still managed a better net financial outcome in the long run.”

However, Trindade noted that the financial benefits do not account for the reputational damage Qantas has suffered throughout the process.

While it remains unclear exactly how much Qantas has set aside for potential compensation, the airline’s 2024 annual report revealed an increase of $70 million in provisions related to this case.

Apology Called ‘Disingenuous’

Qantas has pledged to work with the TWU to expedite the compensation process and issued a second public apology to its former employees following the court ruling. However, aviation analyst Keith Tonkin criticized the apology, calling it “disingenuous.”

“It’s hard to take the apology seriously when Qantas has spent the last three-and-a-half years contesting compensation and denying wrongdoing. They had already provisioned $70 million in their financial results, knowing they would eventually have to pay,” Tonkin remarked.

“We hope Qantas will use this experience to improve its corporate behavior moving forward.”

Tonkin also highlighted the impact the ruling will have on Qantas’ already troubled reputation.

“This is another blow to Qantas’ brand.

Recent research from Roy Morgan shows that Qantas is currently the second-most distrusted brand in Australia,” Tonkin said.

“This ruling adds to other damaging incidents, including Qantas being fined $100 million for selling seats on flights that were never scheduled to operate and the additional $20 million in compensation owed to affected passengers.”

With Qantas’ Annual General Meeting scheduled in Hobart on Friday, the airline’s reputation and the Federal Court ruling are expected to be key issues for shareholders.

At last year’s AGM, 83% of shareholders voted against the airline’s executive remuneration report, marking one of the largest protest votes in Australian corporate history. This resulted in a “first strike” against the Qantas board. If a second strike occurs at this week’s meeting, the board could face a potential spill.

Qantas and the TWU are due to return to the Federal Court in November to determine the final compensation amount and assess any further financial penalties.

Wall Street’s ‘Lost Decade’ Looms: Potential Trouble for Australian Super Returns

ROBERT HEYWARD

Goldman Sachs warns that Wall Street could experience a “lost decade,” with projections indicating lower returns from the S&P 500 in the coming years. This pessimistic outlook is fuelled by factors like high stock valuations, rising interest rates, and broader economic uncertainties. For Australians with

superannuation funds, this scenario presents potential risks, as many of these funds are heavily invested in international shares, especially U.S. stocks. A prolonged period of underperformance on Wall Street could negatively impact returns, threatening the growth of long-term retirement savings. Given this environment, Australian superannuation funds

may need to rethink their strategies to safeguard investor returns. Since global equities, particularly U.S. stocks, form a large part of super portfolios—such as AustralianSuper’s balanced option—a sustained downturn in Wall Street could significantly slow the growth of these funds, making diversification or alternative investments a key consideration.

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

Renowned for his electrifying live shows, Ash Grunwald has inspired a generation to hit the road in an old van to ‘surf by day jam by night’. The festival favourite brings a high energy, vibrant live show with stacks of guitars and foot stomping blues.

Part troubadour, part storyteller - Ash has been selling out shows all over the country, don’t miss this one at the Riverfre Bar - Club Evans RSL BIOGRAPHY

A career spanning 12 studio albums, six Australian Top-50 albums, fve ARIA and four AIR Award Nominations, two APRA Awards, and gong for Best International Act at the LA Music Critic Awards in 2014, Grunwald has cemented his status as one of Australia’s most exciting and entertaining live musicians.

Known for a number of hit collaborations with the who’s who of Australian music throughout his career (Josh Teskey, Kasey Chambers, Scott & Andy from The Living End, Vika & Linda Bull, Joe Bonamassa, add more here) his album “Push The Blues Away” with Josh Teskey hit #8 on the ARIA charts and toured sold out theatres including The Forum, Melbourne Recital

Centre & Sydney Recital Hall in 2020.

Throughout his career, he has supported legends James Brown, The Black Keys, Jack Johnson, Xavier Rudd, and Keith Urban, among numerous others, and played sold out festivals across

Anemoia is an all-ages music festival held in the Northern Rivers. After the successful events last year, we’re ramping things up even more and moving it to the larger capacity Bangalow A&I Hall! With a huge lineup to be announced soon, free beer for

early arrivals provided by Spangled Drongo Brewery, an electric guitar giveaway from Planet Music Lismore, and a gigantic sound system run by Submerge Systems, this is not one to miss.

EVENT DETAILS:

book embarks upon a journey to the depths of success, spirit, and soul.

Featuring Kelly Slater, Stephanie Gilmore, Dave Rastavich, Pete Murray, Jack Johnson, among various eclectic others, the book Surf By Day, Jam By Night has sold over 10,000 copies in Australia alone.

Europe, Japan, and North America as-well as 10 invitations to Australia’s most renowned festival Bluesfest.

Ash released his frst literary endeavour in 2019, Surf By Day, Jam By Night. Published by Pantera Press, the

To coincide with the release of Surf By Day, Jam By Night and explore the sentiment of storytelling even further, Grunwald launched the podcast ‘Soulful Conversations’ in February 2019. A collection of colourful conversations with musicians, surfers, and

• When: Friday 1st Nov @ 5pm

• Where: Bangalow Hall

• Price: From $20

• Tickets: Via the QR code

common folk, Ash’s special guests thus far include John Butler, Missy Higgins, Ziggy Alberts, The Cat Empire, Josh Teskey, Tom Carroll, among various others.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Thursday 31st Oct @ 7:30pm

• Where: Club Evans

• Price: $49.50 +bf

TIME FOR TRIVIA

2 Linda Blair starred as a character named Regan in which 1970s cult movie? (a) The Wicker Man (b) Harold and Maude (c) The Exorcist (d) The Rocky Horror Picture Show

3 Which three countries have the northernmost coastlines on the Persian Gulf? (a) Iran, Iraq, Kuwait (b) Iran, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia (c) Syria, Kuwait, Iran (d) Bahrain, Kuwait, Iran

4 The Jules Rimet Trophy was the original prize for winning which of the following? (a) ICC Cricket World Cup (b) Melbourne Cup (c) Davis Cup (d) FIFA World Cup 5 Which former US President wrote the 2017 bestselling non-fiction book, Portraits of Courage? (a) Barack

How many

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 CHARLATAN

(a) A mere talking pretender

(b) The edible leaf stalk of artichoke

2 DEBENTURE

(a) A contention in words

(b) A complete break-up or collapse

3 FURACIOUS

(a) In a state of fear

(b) Very angry

4 NEBULA

(a) The sharp point of anything

(b) A fawn skin worn by Bacchus

5 PECCADILLO

(a) A trifling fault

(b) A hog-like South American animal

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

BRAND BOLLYWOOD DOWNUNDER

SBS VICELAND, 9.30pm

Borne of the Indian culture’s rich storytelling history and the advent of motion pictures, the Hindi lm industry – or Bollywood (a portmanteau of “Bombay” and “Hollywood”) – is renowned for its colourful costumes, spectacular settings, sweeping romances and, of course, its signature dance scenes. In an illuminating and informative feature, lmmaker Anupam Sharma (unIndian, pictured) discovers how this expressive and celebratory form of cinema swept the world and formed a particularly strong love a air with Australia. Featuring an abundance of clips and commentary, this doco is catnip for cinephiles.

FRIDAY, November 1

SATURDAY

NO TIME TO DIE

NBN, 7.30pm

Daniel Craig wraps up his time with Her Majesty’s Secret Service as superspy James Bond in this tting nale that ranks among 007’s best outings. After an explosive opening scene, the lm nds Bond retired from MI6 duty and enjoying a quiet life in picturesque Jamaica. His peace is soon interrupted, however, when his CIA buddy Felix Leiter (Je rey Wright) turns up seeking his help. His subsequent mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist sees Bond outmaneuver his successor Nomi (Lashana Lynch, pictured), leading him to a scarred and heavily-accented villain (Rami Malek) who is armed with a dangerous new technology that’s capable of killing millions. Closing out his ve- lm run as the iconic agent, Craig well and truly signs o from the enduring franchise with a bang.

TUESDAY TAKE 5 WITH ZAN ROWE

ABC TV, 8.30pm No decent mixtape (or playlist, nowadays) is complete without a striking, thunderous anthem to tie the whole thing together at the end and leave its listener feeling satis ed. Music journalist Zan Rowe (pictured) concludes her third collection of intimate interviews with a worthy candidate: powerhouse performer Casey Donovan (pictured). After winning Australian Idol at the age of 16, Donovan rocketed to national fame, but her career and personal life have not always been a smooth ride. The Sister Act star reveals the real person behind the headlines and alludes to the highs and lows of the past 20 years as she shares ve songs that mean “sanctuary” to her in a revealing yet cryptic chat.

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. (Mal, R)

2.55 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

3.25 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.10 Grand Designs Revisited. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs: India. (PGa, R) 10.00 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R) 10.50 Vienna: Empire, Dynasty And Dream. (PGas, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Secrets Of The Royal Palaces. (PGa, R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Luke Nguyen’s India. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: The Right Mom. (2021, Mav) 2.00 Catch Phrase. (PG, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R)

6.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.

7.35 Gardening Australia. Jerry Coleby-Williams goes to a bamboo nursery.

8.35 Miniseries: Nolly. (Ml) Part 3 of 3. To save her career, Nolly returns to the stage to perform one of theatre’s hardest roles.

9.25 Fisk. (Ml, R) Helen nds herself obligated to help.

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

10.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

10.55 ABC Late News.

11.10 Grand Designs Revisited. (PG, R)

12.00 The Larkins At Christmas. (PG, R)

1.05 Love Your Garden. (R)

1.55 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Lost Treasures Of Ancient Rome: Lost Ships Of Rome. (PG)

A look at a 1st-century Roman shipwreck.

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

9.25 Kennedy. (Premiere) A look at the life of John F Kennedy.

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 The Lesson. (Premiere, Mal)

12.20 The Wall: Cover Your Tracks. (Malsv, R)

3.40 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGal, R) 4.30 Peer To Peer. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs talks to Stephanie Alexander.

8.30 Growing Home With Jamie Durie: The Big Dig. (PG) Part 2 of 4. Jamie Durie is on a search to nd the right material to build his house.

9.30 The Disappearance Of Grace Millane. (Mas, R) The story of the 2018 murder of British backpacker Grace Millane and how her killer was caught.

11.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl, R)

1.05 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

7TWO (62)

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Have I Got News For You U.S. 2.20 Tiny Beautiful Things. 2.50 Planet A. 3.20 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista. 3.30 WorldWatch. 5.30 Gone Fishing With Mortimer & Whitehouse. 6.05 The Matchmakers. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey. 9.30 Brand Bollywood Downunder. 11.15 The Doll Factory. 12.10am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Left O The Map. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 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: Deserts And Grasslands. (PGa, R) Narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

8.40 MOVIE: London Has Fallen. (2016, MA15+lv, R) Terrorists attack world leaders in London. Gerard Butler, Aaron Eckhart.

10.40 Race To The Melbourne Cup Carnival. (PGls)

11.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

12.30 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 Drive TV. (R)

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. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 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: Bruce Almighty. (2003, M) 9.30 MOVIE: Dumb And Dumber. (1994, PG) 11.45 The O.C.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Contestants compete in a high-stakes game where they must beat The Banker to win a cash prize.

6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics. 7.30 Soccer. Joga Bonito Tour. Ronaldinho XI v Cahill XI. From CommBank Stadium, Sydney. 10.00 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.25 The Project. (R) The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics. 11.25 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

(52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32)

(83) 6am Wide Open Sky. Continued. (2015) 6.50 Dancing Ninja. (2010, PG) 8.40 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 10.25 Blow Dry. (2001, M) 12.05pm Arab Blues. (2019, M, Arabic) 1.45 Riding Alone For Thousands Of Miles. (2005, PG, Japanese) 3.45 Five Flights Up. (2014, PG) 5.25 Bride And Prejudice. (2004, PG) 7.30 Last Film Show. (2021, M, Gujarati) 9.35 Maja Ma. (2022, M, Hindi) 12.05am India Sweets And Spices. (2021, M) 2.00 Midsommar. (2019, MA15+) 4.40 Five Flights Up. (2014, PG)

PEACH

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

Enjoy good times in the Brisbane

TARGET TIME

E I N

T C O

N

J I

Today’s target: 10 words average 13 words good 18+ words excellent

Find words of four letters or more. Every word must include the centre letter and each letter is used once only. Find at least one nine-letter word. No colloquial or foreign words, capitalised nouns, apostrophes, hyphens. No verbs or plural words ending in ‘s’. Solution list is not exhaustive. Ref: Macquarie Dictionary

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Auspac Media

Expect some highs and lows this week, Rams. Your ruler, Mars, trines Neptune and Mercury, which is terrific for creativity and communication, as you get your message out loud and clear. But Sunday’s Mars/Pluto opposition could stir up anger or resentment, especially involving work issues or a family matter. Try to release angry feelings in appropriate ways – via a good cry, a deep and meaningful talk with a friend, or a robust pillowpunching session!

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Bulls prefer to plod along in a methodical fashion but, this week, you could experience challenges and disruptions! Saturn squares your ruler, Venus, and Mercury opposes Uranus (in your sign), so life could be stressful and unpredictable. If you prioritise and are mentally flexible, then you’ll handle the hurly-burly with less stress and strain. Close relationships are also in a state of New Moon flux. The more adaptable you are, the better the final outcome will be.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

You could become anxious, as your daily routine is disrupted in some way or your enthusiasm for a work project could overtake your ability to knuckle down and get the job done. If you promise more than you can deliver, then other people will just end up disappointed. So slow down and listen to the wisdom of your inner voice – it will point you in the direction that’s right for you. Being creative and proactive will also lead to success and satisfaction.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

This week a child, teenager, friend or lover could shock you by making a surprise move, or a group project could suddenly veer off in an unexpected direction. If you keep your adaptability muscles well-flexed, then you’ll adjust to the constantly changing landscape accordingly. With peace planet Venus visiting your job zone, stop sulking and stewing over a perceived slight from a work colleague, client or customer. It’s time to cooperate, compromise and sympathise!

Leos love to be Top Cat, but this week you need to ask yourself: “Am I leading others or just bossing them around?” If you power ahead without considering other people, then you’ll create unnecessary chaos and disruption. Do your best to accommodate the needs of those around you.

Life will also run more smoothly if you incorporate a spiritual ritual into your daily domestic routine.

Something like yoga, tai chi, chanting, meditation or creative visualisation.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

When it comes to the way you think, blast out of a boring rut and jump into an exciting new phase. Use your imagination and think outside the box as the Sun, New Moon, Mercury and Uranus activate your communication zone. So stop avoiding issues and start discussing what you really want and need. You can’t expect other people to magically read your mind! For some clever Virgos, a joint venture or a creative online project has the potential to fly.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

The week starts with taskmaster Saturn squaring your patron planet, Venus, which could increase self-criticism and your obsession with perfection. Then Friday’s New Moon illuminates your selfesteem zone, when it’s a good time to boost your confidence, be the authentic you, and celebrate your so-called flaws! The New Moon and MercuryUranus opposition also highlight the importance of having a smart savings’ plan and a well-stocked emergency fund.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

This week the Sun, New Moon and Mercury are transiting through your sign. And the Mercury/ Uranus and Mars/Pluto oppositions could disrupt relationships and rattle your resilience. But it’s time to bounce back, as you demonstrate (and celebrate) your strengths – including courage and persistence. Your motto is from Scorpio actress Julia Roberts (who turns 57 on Monday): “I’m better for all the things that have happened to me, the good and the bad.”

Sagittarians can be feisty folk, but don’t allow yourself to be drawn into a heated exchange this week (especially involving family and/or finances). It would be better to watch the fireworks from the sidelines. With the Sun, New Moon and Mercury visiting your privacy zone, slow down and chill out as you relax, rejuvenate and contemplate. After some quality ‘me-time’ and soulful reflection, you’ll start to see things from a refreshing new perspective.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

The week starts with a tricky Venus/Saturn square, which could exacerbate a relationship issue or a financial problem. With the Sun, New Moon and Mercury visiting your hopes-andwishes zone, it’s important to have ambitious long-term goals that you’re working towards. You’ll have to be patient, though, as you focus on bringing your dreams down to earth via a practical plan. Then – when everything is in place – you’ll know the perfect time to pounce.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

The Mercury/Uranus opposition suggests a house move, family drama, uninvited guests dropping in or some other kind of domestic disruption. And some Aquarians could experience changes at work. Whatever happens, strive to get the balance right between your public life and your private responsibilities. The planets also push you to reinvent a professional relationship. Just be careful you don’t get carried away and throw the baby out with the bathwater.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Are your aspirations for the future ambitious enough? The current stars favour ruminating over big-picture ideas. And there’s no room for false modesty or passive Piscean procrastination as you enjoy talking, texting, posting, promoting, socialising and circulating. The terrific Mars/ Neptune trine encourages you to come up with a creative plan, and then pursue it. An unwelcome surprise could unsettle you, so hold tight and expect the unexpected!

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

Join the Tweed Valley Mountain bike riders for an exclusive screening of the inspiring mtb movie “Anytime”.

Not only do you get to watch an epic movie in a great venue, there’s raffes galore with plenty of great prizes to be won on the night, good vibes, great food and plenty to drink at the bar.

Doors open 6.00pm for food, drinks and pre feature shorts

ANYTIME feature flm 7.30 pm

Raffes drawn 8.45pm

ANYTIME follows the collective ambitions of ffteen of the world’s best male and female freeride mountain bikers across

forests, deserts, cities and high-alpine peaks, as they attempt to defne the frontiers of their sport.

Duration 60mins. PG rating (contains course language)

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 2nd – Saturday 9th Nov

• Where: The Murwillumbah Citadel

• Price: From $20

When Dracula Met Barbie!

Ladies and gents, ghouls and dolls, welcome to the spookiest love story of the century! Imagine this: Dracula, the legendary vampire count, fnally found his eternal bride, and it’s none other than... Barbie! Yes, the Queen of Pink has fallen for the King of the Night, and they’re throwing the wildest wedding the underworld has ever seen.

might just bite back! LINE UP: 2 STAGES with special guests

• Late Nite Tuff Guy (Get Physical)Melbourne

• JMCEE (The Breakfat Club) - Mlebourne

The great nephew of celebrated Cherokee fddler Sam O’Fields, Nokosee carries a longstanding Cherokee fddling tradition into the present. Through powerful live and recorded performances, he lovingly and playfully reimagines his tradition with immense skills and sensitivity as a performer of traditional fddle music. His prowess has not gone unnoticed: He’s won some of the most prestigious contests in the United States and has performed and taught at fagship festivals and workshops. Fellow musicians Reed Stutz and Ryan Nickerson will bring the full stringband

sound to close out the two-part concert. Pearces Creek Hall will have non alcoholic drinks and teas for sale. Feel free to bring your own picnic supper and BYO.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Thursday 31st

Oct @6:30pm

• Where: Pearces Creek Hall

• Price: From $10

Join us for a night of monster mashups and bridal bash-ups, where gothic meets glam in a clash of fangs and fabulousness. Expect blood-red cocktails, pink vampire capes, and a dance-off between zombies and fashionistas. Witness the bouquet toss of doom and a cake cutting that

Stacked line up with Sons of the East, Nanas Pie and Sunday Lemonade, Friday 1st November.

Premiere songwriters and a brilliant live act, Sons Of The East are a remarkable independent success story. Their stellar debut album, Palomar Parade, has already seen over 60 million streams, with sold out shows at O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire

Direct from the UK, THE DOORS ALIVEThe Worlds #1 Tribute to The Doors.

THE DOORS ALIVE take great care to re-create the true essence and magic of THE DOORS. Get ready to be transported back in time as they perform all your favourite hits from THE DOORS iconic songbook

THE DOORS ALIVE is a tribute act and so much more. Hailing

• and the usual suspects by alphabetical order

• Afrodisea (Bare Foot Beat)

• China (161)

• Deivilon (Juicy Club)

• Franck Gazzola (Casa Luna)

• Lunar Disco (Suck My Disco)

• Rom (Sol Selectas)

• Skye Walker (Casa Luna)

• Versace Boys live

London, Williamsburg Music Hall New York, Troubadour LA, Razzmatazz Barcelona, Metro Theatre Sydney, Boston, Denver & The Hague to name just a handful. They have amassed an impressive 300 million streams, 60 million YouTube views, 2 million monthly listeners and sold over 50,000 headline tickets throughout their career,

from Britain, they’re renowned for their spot-on sound, look and presence – just like THE DOORS live in concert! Step into a musical time capsule with all your favourite classic hits; experience it through this one of kind performance. Setlist includes – Light My Fire, Break on Through, Riders on The Storm, People Are Strange, L.A. Woman, The End, Roadhouse

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 2nd Nov @7pm

• Where: Otherworld, Byron Bay

• Price: From $40

DECOR / PERFORMANCES curated by MONSIEUR DIOP FOOD TRUCKS / LICENSED COCKTAIL BAR DRESS CODE: Come dressed to impress—or to distress! Whether you’re channelling your inner vampire, rocking Barbie’s signature pink, or blending the two into a terrifyingly chic combo, make sure you’re ready to turn heads...or roll them! From undead couture to glittering ghoulishness, the style stakes are high at this creepy, couture celebration. Whether you’re team Dracula or team Barbie, one thing’s for sure—this wedding will be an undead dream come true! Don’t miss out on the nuptials that will have the whole graveyard gossiping for centuries. Grab your fangs, glitter, and come celebrate the union of darkness and doll!

a testament to their growing connection with fans all around the world. A steadfastly independent trio, Sons Of The East continue to defy genre and carve out a unique position amongst their indie folk contemporaries. Don’t miss them Friday November 1st, with special guests Nanas Pie and Sunday Lemonade.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday 1st Nov @5pm

• Where: Hotel Brunswick

Price: $49.96

Blues, Love Her Madly plus loads more

An evening with THE DOORS ALIVE is an unforgettable celebration of musical greatness. Their performances are hailed as one of the most authentic and exciting tributes to THE DOORS in the world, and they’re bringing their undeniable talent down under.

This isn’t a Concert. This is an Experience.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday 1st Nov @ 8pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: $70

The Rising Star of South Paciﬁc Travel

Vanuatu, a tropical archipelago of 83 islands in the South Pacifc, is becoming one of the most sought-after travel destinations. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and adventurous activities, it offers an authentic island experience far from the crowds of more commercialized spots in the region.

A Tropical Paradise Off the Beaten Track

Situated between Australia, Fiji, and New Caledonia, Vanuatu boasts crystal-clear waters, active volcanoes, and lush rainforests. Its

remoteness and relatively undeveloped tourism infrastructure make it perfect for travellers seeking an off-thebeaten-path experience.

The capital, Port Vila, located on the main island of Efate, serves as the gateway to the islands, but beyond its modest urban charm lies a world of natural beauty and cultural intrigue.

One of the top attractions is Mount Yasur, an active volcano on the island of Tanna. Known as one of the most accessible volcanoes in the world, Mount Yasur offers travellers a once-in-alifetime opportunity to get up close to volcanic eruptions, especially

during the twilight hours when the molten lava glows against the night sky. This bucket-list experience is a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of Vanuatu.

Cultural Immersion and Ancient Traditions Vanuatu’s culture is as rich as its landscapes. The islands are home to over 100 distinct languages and tribes, each with their own customs, dances, and rituals. Visitors can experience traditional Melanesian culture frsthand, particularly through the island villages that offer cultural tours. These tours allow travellers to witness traditional customs, handicrafts, and ways of

life that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

One of the most famous traditions is the land diving ceremony, known as “Naghol.” Performed on Pentecost Island, it is the precursor to modern bungee jumping. Men leap from tall wooden towers with vines tied around their ankles in a ritual meant to ensure a good yam harvest. This dramatic display of courage and faith draws visitors from around the world.

Adventures Above and Below Water For adventure seekers, Vanuatu offers an array of activities both above and below the water. Scuba diving and snorkelling in

Vanuatu are world-class, with diverse marine life and colourful coral reefs. Divers can explore the wreck of the SS President Coolidge, a World War II troopship, now one of the largest accessible wrecks in the world. This underwater marvel, along with numerous coral reefs, makes Vanuatu a haven for marine enthusiasts.

On land, the island’s rainforests and waterfalls offer a stunning backdrop for hiking and nature exploration. Efate’s Mele Cascades is one of the most popular spots, where visitors can trek through the lush jungle to reach a series of refreshing natural pools and cascading waterfalls.

For those who prefer relaxation, Vanuatu’s beaches are pristine, often secluded, and perfect for unwinding with a view of the Pacifc’s turquoise waters.

With its stunning natural beauty, unique cultural traditions, and adventurous offerings, Vanuatu is quickly becoming a favourite destination for travellers seeking an authentic and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to climb an active volcano, dive into history, or immerse yourself in ancient traditions, Vanuatu is a destination that promises to inspire and enchant at every turn.

Corporate Apartment & House Accommodation

Book entire apartments or houses, carefully selected for quality and comfort by MadeComfy.

Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth,Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Canberra

LIAM JENNINGS

Large-Scale Study of Children with Genetic Disorders Reveals Signifcant Benefts of Early Diagnosis

A comprehensive study involving children with genetic disorders has uncovered substantial benefts associated with early diagnosis. The research, which represents one of the largest efforts of its kind, has profound implications for healthcare, patient outcomes, and family support. The fndings highlight the critical role that genetic testing and early intervention can play in improving the lives of children affected by rare and often complex conditions. This study offers hope for more effective treatments, personalized care plans, and better long-term outcomes for patients and their families.

The Scope of the Study

The large-scale study involved thousands of children diagnosed with various genetic disorders, including rare conditions that often go undetected or are misdiagnosed in infancy and early childhood. The research team conducted comprehensive genetic analyses using advanced techniques like wholegenome sequencing and exome sequencing to identify underlying genetic mutations responsible for these disorders. By focusing on early diagnosis, the study aimed to determine how quickly identifying

the genetic cause of a condition could infuence treatment options, healthcare management, and overall quality of life for the affected children.

Key Findings: The Impact of Early Diagnosis

The results of the study were overwhelmingly positive, demonstrating the signifcant advantages of early diagnosis for children with genetic disorders. The primary benefts can be broken down into three main areas:

1. Targeted Treatments and Personalized Medicine:

One of the most promising fndings of the study was that early diagnosis allowed for more targeted and personalized treatment plans. In many cases, genetic testing helped doctors identify specifc mutations, enabling them to tailor treatment strategies that directly address the root cause of the disorder. This personalized approach signifcantly improved patient outcomes, as treatments could be adjusted to suit the individual needs of the child, increasing the chances of managing the condition more effectively. For some conditions, early intervention was lifesaving. Children who received an accurate diagnosis early in life were able to start appropriate therapies or medications sooner, which in many

cases prevented the progression of symptoms and reduced the severity of their condition. In contrast, children who were diagnosed later or remained undiagnosed often experienced more complications, poorer health outcomes, and delayed development.

2. Improved Quality of Life for Families:

For families, receiving an early and accurate diagnosis provided a tremendous sense of relief and clarity. Many parents of children with genetic disorders spend years seeking answers to unexplained symptoms, often going through multiple misdiagnoses and medical appointments. Early diagnosis through genetic testing reduced this “diagnostic odyssey” for many families, allowing them to better understand their child’s condition and begin appropriate treatment sooner.

Additionally, early diagnosis enabled families to access necessary support services, such as specialized healthcare, therapy programs, and educational resources. Armed with the knowledge of their child’s condition, parents were able to make informed decisions about care, schooling, and lifestyle adjustments. This not only improved the child’s day-to-day life but also eased the emotional and fnancial strain on families, as

they could plan more effectively for their child’s future.

3. Future Research and Clinical Trials: Another signifcant beneft of early diagnosis highlighted by the study was the potential for advancing research and clinical trials. Many genetic disorders are rare, and treatments are still in the experimental stages. By diagnosing children early, researchers were able to better understand the natural progression of certain conditions and how different interventions could be applied. The data collected from this study will contribute to ongoing efforts to develop new therapies and medications for genetic disorders, with the ultimate goal of fnding cures for these life-altering conditions. Early diagnosis also provided families with the opportunity to participate in clinical trials that may not have been available to them without a clear genetic diagnosis. These trials often offer access to cutting-edge treatments that can signifcantly improve the quality of life for children with rare genetic disorders.

Challenges and Barriers to Early Diagnosis

While the study emphasizes the benefts of early genetic diagnosis, it also brings attention to some of the challenges and barriers

that exist in achieving widespread access to these services. One of the primary obstacles is the cost and availability of genetic testing. While advances in technology have made genetic testing more accessible, it remains expensive and is not universally covered by healthcare systems. This limits access for some families, particularly those in lower-income brackets or in regions with less robust healthcare infrastructure. Additionally, there is a need for increased awareness and training among healthcare providers regarding the availability and benefts of genetic testing. Early symptoms of genetic disorders are often non-specifc or diffcult to recognize, and many primary care doctors may not immediately consider genetic causes for a child’s health issues. Educating physicians about the importance of early genetic screening can help ensure more children are tested and diagnosed in a timely manner.

Looking Ahead: Policy and Healthcare Implications

The fndings of this large-scale study have important implications for both policy and healthcare. Governments and healthcare systems will need to consider how to make genetic testing more affordable and accessible to all families, regardless

of income or location. By investing in early diagnosis programs, policymakers can help reduce long-term healthcare costs associated with misdiagnosed or untreated genetic disorders, as early intervention often leads to better health outcomes and less reliance on intensive medical care later in life.

Moreover, this study could infuence the development of national and international guidelines for screening newborns and infants for genetic conditions. By expanding routine genetic testing, healthcare systems can catch and treat genetic disorders earlier, preventing unnecessary suffering and improving the quality of life for countless children. Conclusion The large-scale study of children with genetic disorders underscores the immense value of early diagnosis. Through genetic testing and personalized treatment plans, early intervention can signifcantly improve outcomes for affected children and provide much-needed support for their families. While challenges remain in making genetic testing universally accessible, the benefts of early diagnosis are clear, paving the way for more effective care and brighter futures for children living with genetic disorders.

ROBERT HEYWARD

How to Choose the Best Health Insurance for Seniors

ROBERT HEYWARD

As you age, your health needs may change, making it essential to ensure that your insurance policy matches your current stage of life.

Seniors are more likely to require treatments such as cataract surgery or knee replacements, which are often only covered by Gold and Silver Plus policies. Here’s how to check if you have the coverage you need.

Understanding the Four Tiers of Health Insurance Health insurance is divided into four tiers:

• Basic – Minimal or no cover in a private hospital.

• Bronze – Low-level cover.

• Silver – Medium-level cover.

• Gold – Full or toplevel cover. Additionally, there are Plus variations (e.g., Silver Plus, Bronze Plus, etc.), which cover at least one extra service not available in the standard policy. For example, Silver Plus policies may cover surgeries like hip replacements or cataract surgery, typically found in Gold policies.

Do You Have the Right Level of Cover?

As we age, the likelihood of needing certain surgeries increases. In 2022–23, more than 40% of hospital admissions

for elective surgeries, such as hip and knee replacements, were for people aged 65 and over. Older individuals also make up 15% of the population but account for over 40% of day and overnight hospital admissions, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

To ensure you have adequate coverage, consider the policy tier required to cover common surgeries for seniors. Lower-tier policies may not guarantee coverage for these treatments, so reviewing your policy is essential.

What to Consider if Changing Your Health Insurance Tier

• Waiting Period: If you upgrade your policy to cover certain surgeries, remember that a 12-month waiting period may apply for conditions not covered by your previous policy. Plan your surgery accordingly to avoid delays.

• Downgrading Later: After receiving necessary treatments, you may want to downgrade your policy. Gold policies can cost nearly double the price of Silver policies, so paying for coverage you no longer need, such as pregnancy and birth services, may not be cost-effective.

Does Your Policy Include Pregnancy? Should You

Downgrade?

Even if you’re no longer planning to have children, downgrading from a Gold policy isn’t always straightforward. While Gold and some Silver Plus policies cover pregnancy and fertility, they also provide coverage for surgeries often required by seniors, such as hip and knee replacements.

If you’re considering

surgery in the next two years, consider choosing a policy with a lower excess to avoid high outof-pocket costs during hospital stays.

Health Funds That Waive the Excess for Day Surgery

If you expect to need day surgery (e.g., cataract surgery), consider a policy that doesn’t charge an excess for same-day procedures.

or joint replacements. If you can afford health insurance and are 65 or older, it’s generally not advisable to drop your coverage.

Consider these factors:

• Increased Value:

Australians aged 60-79 use hospital insurance more than any other age group.

• Higher Rebates: From age 65, you’re eligible for a higher government

a Silver Plus policy without pregnancy coverage, ensure:

• It’s cheaper than the lowest-cost Gold policy.

• It doesn’t exclude other services you may need, like rehabilitation or joint replacements.

Should You Pay a Higher Excess to Lower Premiums?

Since the 2019 health insurance reforms, you can opt for a higher excess—up to $750 per person or $1,500 per family—to reduce your premiums. However, if you anticipate needing

Some funds that offer this include:

• GMHBA

• HCF

• Health Care Insurance (HCI)

• Medibank

• RT Health

St.LukesHealth reduces the excess for day surgery.

Should You Drop Health Insurance Altogether?

Hospital Cover: Public hospitals in Australia offer excellent care, but they often have long wait times for elective surgeries like cataract

rebate on premiums. For singles earning up to $97,000 and families earning up to $194,000, the rebate increases from 24.6% to 28.7%. At 70, it rises to 32.8%.

• Family Benefts:

When one member of a family or couple is 65 or older, the rebate applies to the entire family or couple’s policy.

Extras Cover: You might consider dropping extras cover (for services like dental, optical, and physio) and paying for these services out of pocket. The average

extras beneft paid in NSW is $464 per person, while the average annual premium is $930. If you prefer to manage these expenses directly, you might save money by dropping extras coverage. Compare standalone hospital and extras policies for potential savings.

Five Steps to Better, Cheaper Health Insurance

Here’s a fve-step action plan to help you review, compare, and switch health insurance, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars per year.

1. Check your premium increase: Look out for notifcations from your health fund.

2. Assess your need for insurance: Do you need hospital or extras cover?

3. Get the right level of cover: Ensure your policy covers the treatments you may need.

4. Shop around: Use comparison tools to fnd a better deal.

5. Prepay: Contact your fund about prepaying before the annual premium increase.

By following these steps and reassessing your coverage needs, you can ensure you have the right health insurance plan for your senior years.

Information courtesy of Choice

‘Check Your Tech’: Australia’s 3G Network Shutdown Approaching

JEFF GIBBS

Australia’s 3G networks are set to shut down this week, leaving devices that rely on the network unable to make calls, including emergency calls to Triple Zero.

Telstra and Optus will switch off their 3G networks on October 28, 2024, following Vodafone, which deactivated its network

in January 2024. Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA) Chief Executive Louise Hyland advised Australians to contact their service providers if they have concerns about the upcoming changes.

“Fast and reliable mobile connectivity is critical for Australians and our economy. The 3G network currently occupies spectrum

that could be better utilized by providing

makes this switchover important,” Ms. Hyland

said.

“With

remaining before Telstra and Optus switch off their 3G networks, we urge everyone to ‘Check Your Tech’ to see if their device will be impacted. If they are still unsure, they should speak to their service provider for further guidance.”

How to Check if Your Device Will Be Affected:

• Check your mobile phone: Send an SMS with the number “3” to 3498. This service is

available to customers on any Australian mobile network.

• Visit the ‘Check My Device’ website at www.3Gclosure.com. au. The site is accessible to all Australians and is available in 11 languages, including Arabic, Greek, Hindi, and Mandarin.

• Contact your service provider to explore upgrade solutions tailored to your needs.

Councils Already Playing Their Part in Solving the Housing Crisis: LGNSW Defends Role Amid Criticism

IAN ROGERS

The President of Local Government NSW (LGNSW), Cr Darriea Turley AM, has strongly defended the role of local councils in addressing the housing crisis, following recent criticism from the Business Council of Australia (BCA) regarding development application (DA) approval rates.

Responding to the BCA’s assertion that “many of our local councils aren’t helping” with the housing supply challenge, Cr Turley emphasized that such comments are both inaccurate and counterproductive.

“The scale and intensity of the housing and homelessness crisis is

IAN ROGERS

Interest rates in Australia have remained steady at high levels, despite similar economies like New Zealand, the U.S., and Europe beginning to cut theirs. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), led by Governor Michele Bullock, has emphasized the need for Australia’s monetary policy to address domestic economic conditions, rather than following global trends.

Domestic Infation

Pressures

One key reason for the RBA’s decision to maintain high rates is the persistence of domestic

vast and warrants all spheres of government working in genuine partnership to achieve the best outcomes for the community. It won’t be solved by pointing the fnger of blame at local government,” Cr Turley said.

Local Councils’ Commitment to Housing Solutions Cr Turley outlined the signifcant efforts councils have been making in addressing the housing crisis, stating that NSW councils have been “dedicated in their contribution towards doing something about it.” She noted that while local governments and the planning system are frequently blamed for delays in housing supply, the reality is that councils can only process the

applications they receive.

“Councils continue to overwhelmingly approve development applications, with a consistent approval rate of around 97% for over a decade,” she said. However, Cr Turley pointed out that councils have no control over when property owners or developers begin construction once approvals are granted. This delay, coupled with a slowdown in the construction sector, has contributed to the decrease in new housing starts.

Focus on Balanced Planning and Strategic Growth

Cr Turley stressed that local councils are deeply committed to maintaining a fast and effective DA approval process but are not willing to

sacrifce sound planning practices in the name of speed. There are two critical aspects of local councils’ involvement in housing development: the assessment of DAs and strategic planning for land use and population growth through rezoning.

“Councils have been proactive in reviewing their local plans and seeking opportunities for growth in their areas,” Cr Turley said, emphasizing that many councils have worked diligently to accommodate population increases while also ensuring that urban renewal projects are thoughtfully planned and sustainable.

Collaboration and Accountability in the Planning Process

Addressing the BCA’s claim of a lack of

accountability in the local council approval system, Cr Turley referred to recent remarks by Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, who praised the work of many councils in identifying opportunities for increased density in key locations.

“Once councils have made zoning changes, they cannot control the number of applications submitted or the construction decisions made by private and government landowners,” she said, reiterating that councils are committed to ensuring urban renewal and housing density are achieved through collaboration and best practices.

A Call for Partnership, Not Blame

In conclusion, Cr Turley

Why no interest relief in Australia

infationary pressures. While headline infation has recently fallen within the RBA’s target range of 2-3%, core infation remains elevated.

Factors such as a tight labour market, erratic job growth, and high housing costs contribute to keeping infation stubbornly high. The RBA is cautious about cutting rates too soon, as it could risk reigniting infation before it is fully controlled.

In contrast to Australia, New Zealand cut rates after bringing infation under control, but Australia’s unique infationary factors require a different approach.

Global Factors and Domestic Focus

While global factors like supply chain disruptions and oil price volatility have contributed to infation, the RBA is primarily focused on managing domestic demand through its interest rate policy. Governor Bullock has stressed that while global trends play a role, they are not the main drivers of the RBA’s decisions. Domestic conditions, including infationary stability, remain the top priority.

Meanwhile, Australian banks have begun lowering fxed-rate home loan products, refecting expectations that interest

rates will eventually drop. However, the RBA is waiting for more sustained signs of infation easing before cutting rates.

Cautious Approach by the RBA

The RBA is taking a cautious approach to avoid the risk of cutting rates prematurely, which could lead to a resurgence of infation. Lessons from past monetary policy missteps have infuenced this conservative strategy. According to mortgage broker Deslie Taylor, the central bank is likely holding off on rate cuts until they have concrete evidence that infation is under control.

The RBA’s latest monetary policy minutes indicate that infation in Australia has not fallen as quickly as in other economies, partly because other central banks raised rates earlier and more aggressively. The RBA still sees “upside risks to infation,” signaling that rates will remain high until more economic stability is achieved.

What’s Next?

The RBA is closely monitoring upcoming economic data, including the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ quarterly infation release on 30 October. This data will be crucial in determining whether infation has

reaffrmed that local councils are fully engaged in fnding solutions to the housing crisis and are continuously improving their planning and approval processes. However, she emphasized that solving the housing crisis requires cooperation across all levels of government, not fnger-pointing.

“Councils are committed to seeing the planning for signifcant urban renewal and increased density done well, in a genuine, collaborative way, which has proven to be the most effective way of establishing successful and sustainable communities,” Cr Turley said.

eased enough to consider lowering rates. While fxed-rate cuts have already begun in the banking sector, variable rates are expected to follow, though consumers are advised to remain cautious.

In summary, the RBA’s conservative approach refects the complexity of managing domestic infation and balancing global factors. While rate cuts may be on the horizon, the central bank is focused on ensuring infation is fully under control before making any signifcant moves.

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Reading between the power lines.

The path to sorting out your electricity can be very circuitous.

A year ago I changed my electricity company.

‘Energy Providers’ they’re called nowadays, which sounds all very helpful, but the reality is, like most big organisations they just want to help themselves to your money. They are good at it too and like supermarkets and insurers, employ a number of tactics to feece you of as much as they can before enough people complain to

Tahbilk Ngambie Lakes (Museum Release) Shiraz 2014, $31. ‘Geez, you can’t even get into a museum for that price these days let alone get a pretty good, pre-aged bottle of winterwarming shiraz. The aged characters add a nice touch, not just in life. 9.4/10.

Tahbilk Ngambie Lakes

the ACCC and they have to give some back.

The frst method they use is an unfathomable billing system which makes it impossible to compare with other providers and given the ubiquity and uniformity of the practice, it’s a wonder the ACCC hasn’t invoked cartel laws.

There are peak-time charges, off-peak, shoulder, controlled-load, uncontrolled-load, out of control load, controlled-load 2, daily supply charge, daily supply (controlled) charge,

Shiraz 2021, $24. Good, solid, red wine for less than the off-peak component of your electricity bill, which is probably mostly consumed by your wine fridge anyway. Drink this and switch it off. 9.1/10.

Tahbilk Ngambie Lakes Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, $24. This too is cheap

solar meter charge, none of which are explained.

All fne and eventually understandable except within weeks of changing ‘providers’ all those individual charges will change, instantly doubling the complexity of your next bill. This will be accompanied (by law) by a little note in red stating “you could save $XXX a year by switching to our Energy Saver Plus Plan” (or some such), which was the plan you were on before you got last year’s bill which had a

enough that if you can’t decide whether you want a shiraz or a cabernet, you can open both, and then decide. For me the cab’ gets the nod…but maybe tomorrow night? 9.2/10.

Tahbilk Ngambie Lakes Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre 2021, $29. There is something about

little note in red stating… what was that about circuits?

That’s another tactic, purloined from the insurance industry – hide the little box that switches off ‘Autorenew’, put the price up when no-one’s watching, and off to the Bahamas with other executives.

After the latest bill, I visited the Energy Made Easy website, which it didn’t, but I did discover another tactic, obfuscating plans with alluring names. How about Go Variable? Everyday Rewards, Go

the addition of Grenache and a touch of ‘Merv’ that lifts the whole package delightfully, which is why so many winemakers do it, supposedly. 9.3/10.

Tahbilk Ngambie Lakes Marsanne 2024, $22. Tahbilk has long been famous for it’s marsanne, and still has the largest

Solar, Solar Boost, Value Saver, Netfix (huh?), Powering On, Value Saver, Power House, Nothing Fancy. Gotta pay that last one.

There’s Red energy, Blue energy, Green Energy, and of course plenty of Greenwashing. Anyway, after providing details, Ampol was cheapest. However upon signing up on Ampol’s website, the cost was 30 percent higher.

When queried, they said “The Energy Made Easy website is only a guide…

single plantings of the grape anywhere in the world. They are to be commended not only for that but for keeping the price of this simple, clean, bright and delightful wine so affordable. Energy Providers could take note.

9.2/10.

Tahbilk Ngambie Lakes

and anyway there’s a disclaimer”.

Hours later I found a clear, concise and cheap (clearly not in the cartel), ‘Provider’ and within 30 seconds of switching, received a call for the previous ‘Provider’, offering cheaper electricity. Fastest service I ever received from them but why not just give me cheaper electricity? Or offer it on Energy Made Easy? If only. Now, what to buy with my savings?

‘1927 Vines’ Marsanne 2016, $45. This is next level sophistication in white wine, but without oak this fact can easily pass you by and if you’re not careful, the bottle will be empty by the time you realise you should have been savouring it more. Delightful. 9.6/10.

Max Crus

BREAKFAST EGG AND HAM MUFFINS

5m prep 8m cook

4 servings

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

5 INGREDIENTS

• oil spray

HEALTHY OVERNIGHT OATS

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

• 4 (English) muffns, halved and toasted

• 120g shaved leg ham • 4 eggs • 4 slices tasty cheese

SLOW COOKED TUSCAN BREAD SOUP

• 400g can crushed tomatoes

• 400g can Cannellini Beans, drained, rinsed

• 1L (4 cups) Massel vegetable liquid stock

• Bouquet garni (4 fresh or dried bay leaves, 4 vegetarian hard cheese) plus extra shaved, to serve • 1 lemon, juiced, zested

• Finely chopped continental parsley, to serve

CREAMY CHICKPEA AND VEGETABLE CURRY

2 METHOD STEPS

Step 1

5h 50m prep Serves 1

INGREDIENTS

• 30g (1/3 cup) traditional rolled oats

20m prep 3h 50m cook Serves 6

Set a 5L slow cooker to Browning. Heat oil. Cook onion, carrot and celery for 5 minutes or until tender. Add garlic, fennel and chilli. Cook for 1 minute. Add tomato, beans, stock and bouquet garni. Season. Change cooker setting to High. Cover. Cook for 3-4 hours or until vegetables are almost tender. Step 2 Stir in cavalo nero, bread and parmesan. Cover and cook on High for 30 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly. Stir in lemon juice, to taste. Serve topped with parsley, lemon zest and extra parmesan.

• 2 tsp chia seeds

• 1 tsp LSA (ground linseed, sunfower seed and almond mix)

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tsp vegetable oil

• 2 tbsp Madras curry paste

• 1 cup vegetable liquid stock

• 400ml coconut cream

• 1 large red capsicum, cut into 2cm pieces

• 1kg pumpkin, cut into 2cm pieces

• 1 small caulifower, trimmed, cut into forets

• 3 tomatoes, roughly chopped

• 300g green beans, trimmed, halved

• 400g can Chickpeas, drained, rinsed

• 1 Lebanese cucumber, grated

• 4 packet plain naan, warmed

METHOD

1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add curry paste. Cook, stirring, for 30 seconds or until fragrant. Add stock. Bring to a simmer. Transfer to slow cooker.

• 1/2 tsp vanilla bean extract

• 160ml (2/3 cup) unsweetened almond milk

• 1 cup fresh raspberries

• 1 tsp nut butter

METHOD

“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.”

• 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, chopped, plus extra to serve

• 1 cup plain Greek-style yoghurt (or your choice of dairy-free yoghurt)

2. Add coconut cream, capsicum and pumpkin to slow cooker. Season. Cover. Cook on high for 1 hour 30 minutes (or low for 3 hours). Add caulifower and tomato. Cook for 15 minutes. Add beans and chickpeas. Cook for a further 30 minutes or until beans are just tender.

3. Combine cucumber, coriander and yoghurt in a bowl. Serve remaining curry with naan bread, yoghurt mixture and extra coriander.

1. Place oats, chia seeds, LSA, vanilla, cinnamon and milk in a small bowl or container. Stir until combined. Cover and place in the fridge for at least 4-5 hours or overnight until the mixture thickens.

- Auguste Escoffer

2. Place raspberries in a small bowl and gently crush with a fork. Layer the oat mixture and half the crushed raspberries in a 300ml serving jar. Drizzle with nut butter and top with remaining raspberries. Cover and store in the fridge until ready to serve.

In today’s world, where environmental concerns are more pressing than ever, gardening has emerged as a powerful tool for promoting sustainability. Whether you are growing food in your backyard, cultivating ornamental plants, or tending to an urban community garden, the act of gardening naturally aligns with the principles of sustainability. From reducing your carbon footprint to encouraging biodiversity, gardening offers a multitude of ways to live more sustainably.

Growing Your Own Food Reduces Environmental Impact

One of the most direct ways gardening supports sustainability is by allowing individuals to grow their own food. Food production is a major contributor to carbon emissions, especially when it comes to large-scale

agricultural practices that rely on heavy machinery, synthetic fertilizers, and long-distance transportation. By growing your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs at home, you cut down on the environmental costs associated with food production and distribution.

Gardening also encourages the use of organic and natural practices, avoiding the harmful chemicals used in conventional farming. Organic gardening helps maintain soil health and reduces the pollution of water sources. Plus, growing your own food means you can enjoy produce that is fresher, healthier, and free from pesticides and preservatives.

Composting for Recycling Organic Waste Back to the Earth

Composting is a cornerstone of sustainable gardening. It is a natural process that recycles organic waste into nutrient-rich

compost, which can be used to nourish your plants. By composting kitchen scraps, garden clippings, and leaves, you reduce the amount of waste that would otherwise end up in landflls, where it would produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

Creating your own compost not only helps to reduce waste but also improves the health of your soil. Healthy soil is the foundation of a sustainable garden, as it retains moisture, reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, and supports benefcial microorganisms. Whether you use a traditional compost bin, a worm farm, or a simple pile in the corner of your garden, composting is an essential practice for sustainable gardening.

Conserving Water Through Smart Gardening Techniques

Water is one of the most precious resources on the planet, and conserving it is a key aspect of sustainable gardening. There are several water-saving techniques that gardeners can adopt to minimize their water usage while keeping plants healthy and thriving.

One such technique is mulching. Applying a layer of mulch around plants helps to retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for frequent watering. Mulch also prevents weed growth, further minimizing water competition. Another effective method is using drip irrigation systems, which deliver water

How They Go Hand in Hand

directly to the roots of plants, ensuring that no water is wasted through evaporation or runoff. Collecting rainwater is another simple yet effective way to conserve water in your garden. Installing a rainwater tank or barrel allows you to capture and store rainwater for later use. This not only saves water but also reduces your reliance on treated tap water, which requires energy and resources to process.

Encouraging Biodiversity

A sustainable garden goes beyond plants; it also provides a sanctuary for wildlife. By creating a biodiverse garden, you can attract benefcial insects, birds, and other animals that contribute to a healthy ecosystem. This, in turn, helps to control pests, pollinate plants, and improve soil fertility.

To encourage biodiversity, consider planting a variety of native species that provide food and shelter for local wildlife. Native plants are well-suited to your region’s climate and soil conditions, making them more resilient and less dependent on water or fertilizers.

Incorporating fowering plants that attract pollinators like bees, butterfies, and birds can enhance the ecological balance of your garden.

In addition, building insect hotels, installing bird baths, and leaving small areas of your garden untamed can offer habitats for wildlife to thrive. These practices create a natural pest

control system that reduces the need for chemical pesticides, further enhancing the sustainability of your garden.

Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Your Garden

Gardening, when done thoughtfully, can signifcantly reduce your carbon footprint. One way to achieve this is by reducing your reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which are energy-intensive to produce and can harm the environment. Instead, opt for organic fertilizers, compost, or green manure to enrich your soil.

Moreover, choosing to garden with hand tools rather than power tools is a simple yet effective way to cut down on your garden’s carbon emissions. Lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and other gasolinepowered tools contribute to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Using manual tools like push mowers, hand pruners, and rakes can help reduce your garden’s impact on the environment.

Additionally, consider growing trees and other perennial plants that sequester carbon. Trees, in particular, absorb carbon dioxide and store it as biomass, helping to offset your carbon footprint. By planting trees in your garden or participating in local reforestation efforts, you contribute to the fght against climate change.

Sustainable Gardening Products and Practices

The rise of ecoconscious gardening has led to the availability of sustainable gardening products. From biodegradable pots and peat-free compost to organic seeds and fertilizers, there are now numerous options for gardeners who want to minimize their environmental impact. When designing or maintaining your garden, think about how you can make sustainable choices. For example, instead of using plastic pots, consider using terracotta or biodegradable alternatives. When purchasing seeds, opt for heirloom varieties that preserve genetic diversity, or buy from local seed banks to reduce transportation emissions. Another option is to practice seed saving, where you collect seeds from your own plants and use them for future planting, promoting a closed-loop system in your garden.

Final Thoughts Gardening and sustainability truly go hand in hand. Whether you’re growing food, conserving water, encouraging biodiversity, or reducing your carbon footprint, gardening offers a pathway to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. By adopting sustainable practices in your garden, you not only beneft your own health and wellbeing but also contribute to the health of the planet.

LIAM JENNINGS

RURAL NEWS

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX Market Report - Wednesday, October 23

The yarding at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) saw a slight decrease in numbers, with a total of 900 head. There was a good supply of young cattle and a smaller selection of cows, though the quality of young cattle varied signifcantly, primarily consisting of weaners with a few pens of light yearlings.

Young Cattle

Restocker Weaner Steers: Prices eased by 5c, ranging from 250c to 414c/kg, with an average of 364c to 371c/kg.

Restocker Weaner Heifers: Prices were down by 10c to 15c, selling between 206c and 284c/kg.

Restocker Yearling Steers: Prices dropped by 20c, ranging from 230c to 250c/kg.

Grown Cattle

Feeder Grown Steers: Reached a top price of 338c/ kg.

Cows

Light and Medium Weight Cows: Sold at 5c lower,

WARWICK

WARWICK & DISTRICT LIVESTOCK MARKETS

–WEEK ENDING 25/10/2024

Livestock numbers remained consistent as we approach the end of the selling season, with ongoing dry weather contributing to cautious sentiment among producers. Many are opting to offoad stock, applying downward pressure on the market. However, well-fnished cattle and sheep remain in high demand. Vendors are seeing better returns for animals presented in prime condition, and the trend indicates that fresh, well-prepared stock continues to fetch superior prices, regardless of the category.

Market Highlights:

• Bulls averaged 281.6c/kg, peaking at 350.2c/kg, with prices ranging from $1,512.98 to $3,348.80.

• Cows averaged 244.04c/kg, reaching a high of 290c/ kg, with returns between $1,308.05 and $2,619.54.

• Feeder Heifers averaged 265.88c/kg, topping at 386.2c/ kg, yielding between $830.93 and $1,306.64.

• Feeder Steers averaged 330.04c/kg, with a top price of 388.2c/kg, translating to $1,239.66 to $1,696.22.

with two-score medium weights between 210c and 237c/kg, three-score medium weights averaging 247c/kg, and four-score cows between 262c and 275c/kg.

Heavy Cows: Prices held steady.

• Heifers averaged 275.47c/kg, with a peak of 342.2c/kg, ranging from $1,165.37 to $2,005.46.

• Manufacturing Steers averaged 247.25c/kg, topping at 264.2c/kg, with prices between $1,206.23 and $1,579.92.

• Steers averaged 299.37c/kg, reaching 347.2c/kg, with returns from $1,785.11 to $2,559.53.

• Vealer Heifers averaged 228.98c/kg, topping at 300c/ kg, yielding $478.36 to $1,050.00.

• Vealer Steers averaged 316.17c/kg, with a top of 398.2c/kg, translating to $675.93 to $1,116.00.

• Yearling Heifers averaged 255.43c/kg, reaching a high of 335c/kg, with returns between $781.64 and $1,417.28.

• Yearling Steers averaged 286.67c/kg, with a peak of 398.2c/kg, yielding $989.19 to $1,263.90.

A total of 1,422 head sold, averaging $1,087.96 per head, generating a gross total of $1.5 million.

Sheep and Lamb Report – McDougall & Sons

Despite dry conditions, agents and vendors yarded 1,648 head for sale, drawing stock from both local areas and the New England region. Lighter-weight stock met the market well, with strong competition for light sucker lambs and fnished heavier lambs.

• Lambs topped at $237, averaging $145.49 (up $9/ head).

Bulls Heavy Bulls: Topped at 289c/kg.

The market refects slight decreases in pricing for restocker categories, while heavier cows and bulls maintained stable pricing overall.

• Hoggets reached $160, averaging $103.47 (up $9/ head).

• Ewes topped at $94, averaging $45.24 (steady weekon-week).

• Ram Lambs peaked at $150, averaging $111.77 (up $7/ head).

• Wethers reached $97, averaging $54.41 (down $21/ head).

Overall, the average price across 1,648 head was $111.78 per head, up $17 compared to the previous week.

Notable Sales:

• Brayburn Performance Horses sold Southdown x lambs (62.8kg) to Take It Easy Meats for $235 and hoggets (65kg) for $160.

• Edward McConville sold Dorper lambs (48.3kg) to GR Prime for $185.

• Gary & Bonnie Osbourne sold Dorper lambs (50kg) to Tony’s Supa Meats for $190.

• Dugald & Jenny Spencley sold Dorper lambs (47.08kg) to GR Prime for $178.

• Armstrong Family sold Dorper lambs (44.6kg and 41.95kg) to GR Prime for $150 and $149, respectively.

• Ennismore Grazing sold Dorset x lambs (50.5kg) to Eversons for $210.

IAN ROGERS

Consolidation Drives Change in Australia’s Wood Processing Sector

The ABARES National Wood Processing Survey 2021–22 has revealed signifcant changes within Australia’s wood processing industry, with the number of operating mills continuing to decline. In 2021-22, 252 mills were operational, representing a reduction of 47 mills since 201617, extending a 30-year trend of consolidation in the sector.

Dr. Jared Greenville, ABARES Executive Director, noted that of the 252 mills operating in 2021-22, there were:

• 146 hardwood sawmills

• 48 softwood sawmills

• 13 cypress sawmills

• 20 post and pole mills

• 25 wood-based panel mills

“The reduction in mill numbers has primarily been driven by

consolidation, with many of the remaining mills increasing their input capacity,” Dr. Greenville said.

The survey also showed a decrease in sawnwood production by 8% compared to 2016-17, with total production at

4.3 million cubic metres.

This includes:

• A 5% decline in softwood production

• A 21% reduction in

hardwood production

• A 30% fall in cypress pine production

Despite the drop in production, the sector’s sawnwood revenue reached $3 billion in 2021-22, an 8% increase in real terms since 2016-17. Dr. Greenville attributed this growth to higher product prices, which have offset declines in timber production.

The survey also highlighted the continued importance of sawmills and post and pole mills as employers in the forestry industry, with more than 7,500 employees contributing to the sector.

To read the full report, visit: ABARES National Wood Processing Survey 2016-17 - DAFF.https://www.agriculture. gov.au/

Female Leaders Celebrated for Contributions to Agriculture

A group of 12 emerging agricultural leaders has been commended for their successful completion of the Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program, a nationally recognized initiative facilitated by the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF). Supported by 30 corporate partners, the program aims to promote workplace diversity and advance female leadership in the agriculture sector.

Tony Mahar, NFF Chief Executive Offcer and former program mentor, praised the 2024 cohort for their dedication and impact on the industry.

“This exceptional group of women has worked extremely hard over the past few months and have already made a huge impact in the ag industry,”

Mr. Mahar said. “Last night’s graduation

coincided with the NFF’s Members’ Council, which was the perfect platform to showcase the skillset of our diverse ag leaders.”

Program graduates expressed their gratitude for the program, crediting it with enhancing their confdence and leadership capabilities.

“The Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program has empowered me to break free from self-imposed limitations, embrace my potential,

and build lasting bonds with incredible women who have supported my journey toward personal and professional growth,” said graduate Ming Fung Chua.

Wendy Hick added, “My understanding of leadership in agriculture has expanded tremendously through the program, revealing its various forms and the diverse areas in which leaders emerge.”

The 2024 graduates now join a growing network of alumni, with

77 participants having completed the program since its inception.

2024 Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Graduates:

• Amanda McClaren –Graytown, VIC

• Angela Hammond –Inverell, NSW

• Becky Dickinson –Warragul, VIC

• Jennifer Brown –Mascot, NSW

• Jenny Crema – South Mission Beach, QLD

• Kelly Nankivell –Tintinara, SA

• Lauren Langfeld –

Aberfoyle Park, SA

• Madie Hamilton –Randwick, NSW

• Meredith King –Milsons Point, NSW

• Ming Fung Chua –Bayswater, WA

• Sarah Stevens –Mareeba, QLD

• Wendy Hick –Camooweal, QLD

Program Patron:

Former NFF President and Program Patron Fiona Simson extended her congratulations to this year’s graduates.

“I can’t wait to follow the participants’

careers and watch as their leadership skills inspire others,” Ms. Simson said. She also highlighted the program’s importance in embracing diversity and fostering real change, adding, “I’m very proud that the Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program makes a real difference to real women’s lives.”

Program Partners: Mr. Mahar thanked the 30 corporate partners that have committed to creating a more genderdiverse workforce, acknowledging their dedication to closing the gender gap.

“These organisations have publicly pledged to make meaningful change to gender equality. I thank them for their commitment to change and encourage others to join,” Mr. Mahar said.

For more information about the program, visit nff.org.au/programs/ diversity-in-agricultureleadership.

L-R Becky Dickinson, Ming Fung Chua, NFF CEO Tony Mahar, Jenny Crema, Angela Hammond, Sarah Stevens, Patron Fiona Simson, Madie Hamilton, Amanda McClaren, Kelly Nankivell, Meredith King, NFF President David Jochinke, Wendy Hick and Jennifer Brown. Absent: Lauren Langfeld.

IAN ROGERS

Growers demand commitment on power prices and insurance

With just days remaining until the Queensland election, CANEGROWERS is urging political leaders to commit to critical reforms that will lower soaring power prices and eliminate unfair stamp duties that hinder farmers’ ability to manage risk.

CANEGROWERS

CEO Dan Galligan highlighted that Queensland’s sugarcane growers have been hit hard by a 145% increase in electricity prices since 2007, signifcantly outpacing general infation, which has risen by only 56% during the same period. This has put immense pressure on the productivity and competitiveness of growers.

Current electricity tariff structures disproportionately penalise farmers who rely on seasonal power usage for growing food and fbre.

CANEGROWERS is calling for a shift towards equitable,

consumption-based tariffs. The organisation, alongside the Queensland Farmers’ Federation, is also advocating for raising the threshold for large electricity customers from 100 megawatt hours (MWh) per annum to at least 160 MWh/a, allowing more farmers to access fairer rates.

“The current demandbased tariffs are designed for constant, year-round use—not for farmers who depend on electricity in bursts during the growing season,” Mr. Galligan said. “We need genuine tariff reform, not superfcial fxes.”

CANEGROWERS is also pushing for the removal of the 9% government stamp duty on crop and parametric insurance products. This tax discourages farmers from safeguarding their businesses against natural disasters, making insurance unaffordable for many.

“Eliminating this tax is a no-brainer,” Mr.

Galligan stated. “By removing the stamp duty, the government would encourage farmers to protect themselves from foods, droughts, and cyclones, reducing their dependence on government aid.”

Despite the clear benefts, neither major party has committed to abolishing the stamp duty or lowering power prices for agriculture.

“The lack of political action on these issues is disappointing,” Mr. Galligan said. “Farmers remain exposed to disasters due to a tax that makes essential insurance unaffordable. With the election just days away, this is the last chance for political leaders to show their support for Queensland agriculture.”

RAS Foundation Community Futures Grant Program Puts Regional NSW Projects in the Spotlight

Community projects in rural and regional New South Wales are receiving attention this month as the RAS Foundation (RASF) opens applications for its 2025 Community Futures Grant program. Now in its eleventh year, the program provides essential funding for projects that enhance local communities, such as refurbishing community halls or supporting social programs.

With grants of up to $25,000 available, RAS Foundation Manager Cecilia Logan is encouraging community organisations and individuals to consider applying.

“Securing funding for initiatives like restoring a showground or launching a community program can be challenging for many organisations, and that’s where our grants can be a game-changer.”

NSW. The funds were raised through RAS Foundation initiatives, including the sale of the Give & Gather Bag and the Raffe at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. Over the lifetime of the program, 205 communities have benefted from RASF grants.

Nambucca Heads, which supports child development and school readiness, are examples of projects that have made a real difference in their communities.

“The RAS Foundation Community Futures Grant program is designed to support community projects that make a positive impact on towns across rural and regional NSW,” Logan said.

A wide range of projects have benefted from the program in previous years. For example, the recent grand re-opening of the Manilla Pony Club following a muchneeded refurbishment and the Young Minds Thrive initiative in

“Every community has unique needs, and our goal is to support projects that provide real value to the local area. If you have a project that can give back to your town, I encourage you to apply,” Logan added.

In 2024, the RAS Foundation distributed $152,000 across nine community projects in

Organisations that received funding in 2024 include the Walcha Show Society, Collingullie Soldiers Memorial Hall, Lithgow Show Society, Visit White Cliffs NSW, Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW Ulladulla, Manilla Pony Club, Adelong Show Society, Lacmalac Soldiers Memorial Hall, and Young Minds Thrive in Nambucca Heads.

Applications for the 2025 RAS Foundation Community Futures Grant Program close in late December 2024. For more information and to apply, visit www.rasf. org.au.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan

CLEARING SALE

E ARMITAGE

Chamberlin 60 100 Tractor with under Axle Blade, Stick Rake, Slasher & Hay Spikes, In working condition

Chamberlin Industrial Tractor with Bucket & Hay Spike, In good working order

Caterpillar D4 Bulldozer with Stick Rake, Stump Pusher, Blade + various parts, In working condition

2010 Grey Mitsubishi Triton, 196,000km

Fordsan Major Tractor, Petrol, In working condition

Fordsan Major Tractor, Parts only

1973 D5N Dodge Truck, In Working Order

1950 Chevrolet Truck (Complete Truck in Parts)

Reg Bogie Wheel Trailer

Box Trailer with Steel Cabinet

Block Spliter with Petrol Motor

Horwood Bagshaw 18 twine trailing scarifer

Honda Quad Bike, In working order (aged)

Gantry with Block & Tackle

Connorshea Seeder 9FT

Bordin Bro’s Cattle Crush

3PL Post Hole Digger

PTO Hammer Drill

Lucas Sawmill

Engine Hoist on wheels

Quantity of Hydroponic Systems

Steel Water Tank on Trailer, 1000L with PTO Pump

Electric Drill Press - Peerless

Electric Pencil Auger

3PL Single Tyne Ripper

3PL Super Spreader

Workstation Welder & Generator on Trailer

65 Concrete Railway Sleepers

Cement Mixer

166.39 ha (411 Acres)

Triton 2000 Work Centre

Rover Walk Behind Rotary Hoe

Greenfield Garden Mulcher

Subaru Pressure Cleaner 190cc

Industrial Karcher Pressure Cleaner

Uni Meg Welder 180

Hydraulic Press 20T

2x Bench Grinders

2x Air Compressors

Oxy Set & Trolley

Power Hacksaw

Ryobi Drop Saw

Stihl Super Chainsaw 029

Stihl MS 180 Chainsaw

Various Chainsaw Parts only

Various sizes of Socket Sets

4x Micrometre Sets

Dog & Chain Sets

Circular Saw

& Die Set

Stump Vices

Holden Engine

LARGE QUANTITY OF THE FOLLOWING

Hand Tools & Workshop Equipment

Power Tools

Sawn Timber & Hardwood -Various Sizes

Corrugated Iron

Fencing Material including Star Pickets, Plain Wire, Barb Wire & Mesh

Electric Fencing Gear Including Wire, Tape

Energizers & Stand Offs

Variety of Shovels, Rakes & Gardening Equipment

Cross Cut Saws

Bellows - Bee Smokers 44 Gallon Drums, Plastic & Steel

Steel - Various Sizes

ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES

Guvnor Valve Off Steam Engine

2x Floor Board Clamp

2x Drill Press

Variety of Hand Driven Augers

2x Single Cylinder Petrol Engines, (Cooper & Moffatt Virtue)

Cultivator

Large Quantity of Tractor Seats & Steel Wheels

Approx. 20 Steel Wagon Wheels

Jacks

Shoes Lasts

Rabbit Traps

Dingo Traps

Lanterns

Hand Shears

Soldiers Army Helmet

Refreshed pest reporting course for growers on-the-go

Plant Health Australia (PHA) is excited to announce the launch of its revamped Growers Guide to Pest Reporting and Responses course on the Biosecurity Online Training (BOLT) platform.

This newly updated, mobile-friendly course is designed to ft seamlessly into the busy lives of growers, farm workers, and agronomists, providing essential biosecurity training at their fngertips.

The free, 20-minute eLearning course aims to boost understanding of pest reporting and response procedures, which is crucial to safeguard Australia’s plant health.

Recognising the need

for fexible, accessible training, PHA has optimised the course for smartphones and tablets, allowing users to learn on the go.

“We’ve redesigned this course with the user in mind,” said Dr Rachel Mann, PHA’s National Manager, Response.

“Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for those on the frontlines of plant health to get the information they need, when they need it.”

Key features:

1. User-friendly design: simplifed navigation, enhanced images and interactive graphics.

2. Engaging content: a mix of written, video and interactive graphics to cater for various learning styles.

3. Concise and relevant: focused on practical steps for reporting pests, understanding biosecurity benefts and the joint responses from government and industry, The course covers essential topics, including the potential impact of pests and diseases on Australia’s agricultural industry, how to protect crops, and the steps for reporting unusual symptoms or pests. By equipping growers with this knowledge, the course enhances early detection and reporting, signifcantly increasing the chances of effective control and eradication of plant pests.

“Growers are at the forefront of identifying and responding to plant pests in Australia,” said Sarah Corcoran, PHA’s CEO.

“Early detection and reporting increase the chances of effective control and eradication.”

PHA encourages industry members and associations to share this resource by linking it on their websites and promoting it within their networks.

Visit Biosecurity Online Training (BOLT) | Plant Health Australia to register for your free account. For questions or feedback on the course, please contact the PHA Training team at BOLT@phau.com.au.

NFF Announces New Board Directors

IAN ROGERS

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has today welcomed two familiar faces to its Board. Mark Horan has been elected as a Director, and Georgie Somerset has been re-elected, during the NFF’s Annual General Meeting, held online.

Mark Horan, a cattle producer from New South Wales’ Southern Tablelands, previously served on the NFF Board from 2014 to 2017. He

returns to the Board following a vote from representatives of NFF’s member organisations.

Georgie Somerset, a cattle producer from Queensland’s South Burnett region, was re-elected after reaching the three-year term limit.

NFF President David Jochinke expressed his enthusiasm for working with both directors:

“Georgie and Mark bring a wealth of experience to the NFF Board through their previous roles and their deep knowledge of the agriculture industry. I

look forward to working with them both.”

Mark Horan replaces Tony York, who completed his six-year tenure on the Board.

Mr. Jochinke extended his gratitude for Tony York’s dedicated service since his election in 2018:

“We are deeply grateful for Tony’s insightful and passionate contributions to the NFF. Tony has been a strong advocate for our industry, and I’m certain he will continue to be a force in the ag world. We wish him the

very best in his future endeavours.”

NFF Board

Members:

• President: Mr David Jochinke

• Vice President: Mr John Hassell

• Director: Ms Lisa Minogue

• Director: Ms Georgie Somerset

• Director: Mr Mark Horan

• Director: Mr Hamish McIntyre

• Director: Mr David Connolly

• Independent Director: Ms Nat Sommerville

HOARE, Mary Rose

Late

Formerly of Moree. Passed away 24th August 2024. Dearly loved wife to Keith (Dec). Will be sadly missed by all her

Aged 89 Years

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service for Mary to be held at the Richmond Chapel, Parkview Funeral Home, 21 Kalinga Street, Ballina NSW on Friday, 8th November 2024 commencing at 10.00am

Lines IncludingA/C GR & JA PIGG

10 Genuine F1 Angus/ Brahman 2.5yo Heifers, Preg Tested red tags to Clarence Park Angus Bulls

A/C BA & MJ MORAN - Herd Reduction

5 Yearling Un-joined Simmental Heifers

8 Simmental Heifers joined to Simmental Bulls some calves at foot

15 Simmental Cows PTIC or calf at foot some calves at foot 2 Simmental Stud Bulls - 1 Apricot and 1 Black

A/C S ANDERSON

12 Speckle Park Heifers PTIC with some calves at foot

A/C SOUTHGATE PASTORAL

45 Hereford X Heifers 320-400kg, Ready to join 20x20 Hereford Cows and calves

30 Angus X Heifers 300-350kg, Un-joined

A/C SARO PASTORAL

20 Brahman Santa X 3yo Heifers

PTIC Ultra Black Bull

A/C MJ IDE

15 Angus X Heifers

PTIC to Battalion Hereford Bull

A/C AG, GI & AC CHAPMAN

10 Genuine F1 Hereford/ Brahman 2.5yo Heifers

PTIC to Low birth weight Wakefield Charolais Bull

A/C TA CONROY

20 Charolais X Heifers PTIC

A/C CRESSBROOK 20 Hereford Heifers

PTIC to Booroomooka Angus Bulls

A/C J & F BUCHANAN

20 Angus/ Limousin X 3yo Heifers, Springing or with calves

A/C L EMERY

30 Angus X 2.5yo Heifers PTIC to Angus / Speckle Park Bulls

A/C SPECTACULAR SPECKLE PARK

1 Stud Speckle Park Heifer PTIC

1 F1 Angus / Speckle Park Heifer PTIC

A/C NILAND OPERATIONS

5 Santa/ Angus Un-joined Heifers

5 Charolais/ Angus Un-joined Heifers

A/C TA & SC KROEHNERT

8 Santa Hereford X Un-joined Heifers

A/C SWAMP PASTORAL

6 Hereford 20mths Un-joined Heifers Amos-Vale Bloodlines, Coastal Bred

A/C WATTERS PASTORAL

30 Santa, Angus / Charolais X 350-420kg Un-joined Heifers

A/C D SPENCER

6 Santa / Charolais 16mths Un-joined Heifers

A/C JH ELDER

10 Hereford Heifers 12mths, Purebred, Hillview Hereford Line

A/C BMH BRANGUS STUD

10x10 Brangus Cows & Calves

Working together with

•

WEATHER

FORECAST

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower, most likely in the morning and afternoon. The chance of a storm inland in the morning and afternoon. Light winds becoming easterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening. Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm. Light winds becoming northerly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm. Winds easterly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light during the morning.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the south. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm. Light winds becoming west to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening.

New South Wales:

The chance of a shower about the far southern ranges and the north coast and adjacent ranges. Dry and sunny elsewhere. Patchy morning frost about the far southern ranges. South to southeasterly winds east to northeasterly in the evening. Fresh at times along the south coast.

Thursday. A shower or two about eastern and northern districts. The chance of an afternoon storm. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere. North to northwesterly winds ahead of a south to southwesterly wind change anticipated to move across the state through the day.

Byron Coast: Winds: Southerly 10 to 15 knots shifting north to northeasterly below 10 knots during the afternoon. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Southerly 1 to 1.5 metres inshore, increasing to 1.5 to 2 metres offshore. Weather: Partly cloudy. Coffs Coast: Winds: Southerly 10 to 15 knots shifting north to northeasterly below 10 knots during the afternoon. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Southerly 1 to 1.5 metres inshore, increasing to 1.5 to 2 metres offshore. Weather: Partly cloudy.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Variable below 10 knots becoming southeasterly 10 to 15 knots during the morning then tending easterly during the afternoon. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Southeasterly around 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Surf City, El Salvador – Scott Schindler from Sawtell, NSW, has returned home with Gold in the Men’s Grand Masters (over 50) category at the 2024 ISA World Masters Surfng Championship (WMSC). Team

Australia, known as the Irukandjis, claimed the overall Bronze in the international event, held from October 18-24.

Schindler, at 53, captured his frst World Championship title, marking a career milestone and reinforcing his dedication to the sport.

“To win a world title is surreal,” Schindler shared. “This is a dream come true at any age and a testament to the hard work that goes into this achievement. Winning for myself, the team, and Australia is something I’ll treasure forever.”

Team Australia also saw outstanding performances from Serena Brooke (Noosa Heads, QLD) and Rod Baldwin (Copacabana, NSW), who earned Silver in the Women’s Masters (over 40) and Men’s Kahunas (over 60) categories, respectively. Baldwin’s Silver completed his collection

Mahjong

Results - Friday, 25th

October 2024

1. Carol Meyer

2. Ramsay Roper

3. Jan Boardman

4. Lisa Wong

5. Pauline Kearney

6. Val Heinritz

7. Janene Jarvis

8. Lorna Simpson

9. Valda McLerie

10. Lynda Lovett

11. Wendy Thornton

12. Joy Lowien

13. Gladys D’Anna

14. Vanessa Reynolds

15. Jan Small

16. Jeanette Henwood

17. Kathy Pickles

18. Rosemary Russell

19. Coral Lavelle

20. Shirley Atkinson

21. Sally Lowry

in the Kahunas division, as he previously won Gold, Bronze, and Copper in past events. Sandra English (Budgewoi, NSW) added to her medal record with Copper in the Women’s Kahunas (over 60), her fourth WMSC medal.

2024 ISA World Masters Surfng Championship Results for Australia

• Teams Rankings:

o Gold: Brazil – 4790 points

o Silver: Hawaii –4600 points

o Bronze: Australia –4445 points

o Copper: France –3616 points

• Women’s Masters (over 40)

o Gold: Melanie Bartels (HAW) – 16.60

o Silver: Serena Brooke (AUS) – 13.40

o Bronze: Jacqueline Silva (BRA) – 12.04

o Copper: Lisbeth Vindas (CRC) – 9.74

• Men’s Grand Masters (over 50)

o Gold: Scott Schindler (AUS) – 15.50

o Silver: Jojó de Olivença (BRA) – 14.43

o Bronze: Pablo Diaz (PUR) – 12.93

o Copper: Dani Garcia (ESP) – 12.24

• Women’s Kahunas (over 60)

o Gold: Becky Benson (HAW) – 10.64

o Silver: Roberta Borges (BRA) – 8.60

o Bronze: Barbara Roettger (PUR) – 7.83

o Copper: Sandra English (AUS) – 6.96

• Men’s Kahunas (over 60)

o Gold: Eric Graciet (FRA) – 16.23

o Silver: Rodney Baldwin (AUS) – 14.54

o Bronze: Allen Sarlo (USA) – 11.86

o Copper: Shuji Kasuya (HAW) – 8.44

Team Irukandjis Masters Members

• Men: Shane Conwell (40+), Scott Schindler (50+), Rod Baldwin (60+)

• Women: Serena Brooke (40+), Kim Wooldridge (50+), Sandra English (60+)

The 2024 ISA World Masters Surfng Championship marked a return after a decadelong break, offering a prestigious platform for surfers aged 40+ in El Salvador’s renowned El Sunzal point-break.

Picture: Team Australia secures overall Bronze at the ISA World Masters Surfng Championship. Credit: ISA / Jersson Barboza

22. Margaret Bryant

23. Pauline Bolte

24. Ann Hewitt

25. Ronda Taylor

26. Linda Lloyd

27. Pam Farrell

28. Yvonne Weddup

29. Cindy Smith

30. Susan Scott

31. Kath Hubbard

Congratulations to all players!

Casino Women’s Bowls

Results - Wednesday, 23rd October 2024

The fnal for the Club

Major Singles was held, with a close and wellfought game resulting in Helen Lavelle defeating Julie Creighton. Congratulations to Helen on becoming the

Club Major Singles

Champion for 2024, and well done to both players for an excellent match.

In another tight game, the team of Raelene Skirrey, Carmel Doyle, Ivy Watson, and Denise Skinner defeated Tanya Maxwell, Jan Cooke, Maria Hellyar, and Kay Jonsson.

Congratulations to all players!

Cherry Street Croquet

Club Sports Results Association Croquet

• P. Hume & G. Porter

21 defeated P. Waters & S. Hume 14

Ricochet Croquet

• P. Waters & D. Scott

14 defeated R. Chapman & G. Porter 13

• B. Bill & R. Poynting 10 defeated N. Barnes & L. Hudson 1

• P. Scott & R. Allen

18 defeated J. Doust & R. Chapman 9

• R. Poynting & L. Hudson 11 defeated M. Field & J. Bate 9

• N. Poynting & H. Young 12 defeated R. Allen & B. Wellings 8

• N. Barnes & M.

Russell 13 defeated A. Mangan & J. Doust 11

• R. Chapman 16 defeated J. Hannigan 15 Club ChampionshipsDivision 1

• D. Scott 15 defeated R. Chapman 7

• D. Scott 8 defeated

R. Chapman 6 TournamentsWynnum Golf Doubles

1. M. McMahon & C. Parker

2. G. Bury & F. D. Wytt

3. G. McLean & C. Beckett

4. G. Hull & C. Hipwell

5. D. Scott & P. Scott New players are always welcome!

Coraki Veterans Golf Results - Thursday 24/10/24

A total of 51 golfers participated in the single stableford competition. Congratulations to the winners:

• Winner: K. Rogers

• 2nd Place: S. Smith

• 3rd Place: R. Black

• Free Game Winner: T. Beemster Chicken/Ball Winners: G. Flaherty, J. Perkins, J. Nilsson, S. McDonald, G. Brown, T. Woods, G. Gibson, P. Bruggy, T. McBurney, R. Thorne, J. Savins, G. O’Connor, M. Bruggy, R. Gacioppa, B. Collyer. Nearest to Pins:

• 3rd/12th: P. Martin

• 6th/15th: B. Kerrison

Join us this Thursday for another single stableford starting at 8:30 am, followed by our monthly BBQ. Until then, happy golfng!

- Max

Ballina

East Coast Boardriders Triumph in Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Tasmanian Qualifer

After years away from competition success, East Coast Boardriders Club clinched victory over rivals South Arm Boardriders Club at Rebounds on the South Arm Peninsula, securing their place in the upcoming Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final in March 2025 at Burleigh Heads.

With standout performances from Andy and Mel Hoult, Dustin and Sunny Hollick, and Benn Richardson, East Coast managed to outshine South Arm’s top scorer, Marti Paradisis,

who earned a 9.5 on an impressive tube ride. Consistency was key for East Coast, with Richardson and Dustin Hollick contributing scores of 7.00 and 6.00, respectively, setting up the team for a decisive win.

Despite a last-minute opportunity for Cowan Duncan of Park Beach Boardriders to tip the scales, needing only a 6.01 to push South Arm down to third, he was unable to secure a set wave, leaving East Coast in the winner’s circle.

South Arm Club legend Luke Johannesen expressed excitement at seeing East Coast qualify: “It’s fantastic to see East Coast put a team together and take

the win. With Tasmania’s top clubs going headto-head, it’s only raising the level of local surfng. Congratulations to East Coast, and we’re thrilled to represent Tasmania with them at the Grand Final next year.”

Tasmanian Qualifer Final Results

1. East Coast Boardriders

2. South Arm Boardriders

3. Park Beach Boardriders

4. North West Boardriders

Additional Awards:

• Jim Beam Club

Spirit Award: South Arm Boardriders

• Oakley Prizm Performer Award: Cowan Duncan (Park Beach Boardriders)

• Boost Mobile Wave of the Day: Marti Paradisis (9.5 ride) 2024/25 Hyundai Australian Boardriders

Island, VIC – 6th Oct

• Event 3 – Sunshine Coast, QLD – 12th Oct

• Event 4 – Fleurieu Peninsula, SA – 19th Oct

• Event 7 – North Narrabeen, NSW – 9th Nov

Battle Series 12 Schedule:

• Event 1 – Trigg Beach, WA – 14th Sept

• Event 2 – Phillip

• Event 5 – Clifton Beach, TAS – 26th Oct

• Event 6 –Wollongong, NSW – 2nd Nov

• Event 8 – Coffs Harbour, NSW – 26th Sept

• Grand Final

– Burleigh Heads, QLD – 8-9th Mar (by qualifcation)

Andy Hoult from East Coast Boardriders in action. Image: Blainey Woodham / Surfng Tasmania

Tyler Hollmer Cross. Image: Blainey Woodham / Surfng Tasmania

From the back page

Harwood all-round Troy Turner has led his team from potential disaster to a seemingly impregnable position on day one of the Clarence River Cricket Association match against GDSC Easts at Ellem Oval, Grafton.

Turner came in with the premiers struggling at 5/123 and was the last batter dismissed with the score at 309.

He hit 16 fours and three sixes in his innings of 115, becoming the second batter from the club to reach three fgures this season.

Turner saw two more quick wickets fall, including Evan Lewis, 58 as East’s left-arm tweaker Dave Duroux threatened to run through the middle and lower order.

At 7/134 the end seemed close. Instead Turner and the tail enders piled on the runs.

He and Zethan Nichols, 25, put on 76 for the eighth wicket and then he and Corey Lewis, 22

added another 75 for the ninth wicket.

Even the last wicket added 24 to take the total past the 300 mark.

Earlier Evan Lewis and Kallen Lawrence, 37, had put put on 77 as Harwood recovered from 4/46 with last game’s century maker Coby Tabor out for a duck and Ben McMahon back in the clubhouse for 4.

Opening bowler Shannon Connor made a mess of the Harwood

top order with three early wickets, but lost effectiveness later in the innings. He fnished with 3/83 from 28 overs.

Easts have yet to face a ball in the game and will be looking for a big innings from Connor. His aggressive approach can turn a game but he needs to ensure he bats for a long time if his team wants to get close to the Harwood total.

At Ulmarra

Congratulations to the seven Rainbow Dragons 2nd placing as Northern Region representatives at the DBNSW Region v Region (RvR), Sydney International Regatta Centre. It has been a long time coming and then only one point between them and frst.

Early January, these Rainbow Dragons completed the tough try-outs for the Northern Region DBNSW RvR’s team which is considered a stepping stone on the athletes’

development between representing their club and representing their State.

They were all accepted, and then they committed to the next three months of the rigorous training (on & off the water) and the mileage to attend training with their team.

Unfortunately, in April, the 2024 State and RvR Championships were a last-minute cancellation due to serious fooding of the regatta centre. It

was only recently, that the six regional teams were able to come together again and race.

Club president, Lu Cooney reports “We were ecstatic to fnish the day, winning 2nd place against some strong teams. Banks Street won the day by only one point!!”

“We hope that these Rainbow Dragons have inspired more Rainbows to try out for the representative teams next year! It’s a great experience.”

Showground Souths Westlawn is nominally in front after dismissing Coutts Crossing for 112 and reaching 3/50 by stumps.

With seven wickets in hand and another 62 needed for a win, South Westlawn will hope its skittish batting line up can hold its nerve. If it falters it will mean another master class of seam bowling from veteran Nathan Blanch will have been wasted.

Blanch was miserly in conceding just 24 runs from 13 overs while continually threatening both edges of the bat to take four top order wickets.

Skipper Dylan Cleaver was also tight and was rewarded with a pair of wickets to fnish with 2/28 from 10 overs. Four other bowlers each picked up a wicket each in short spells that kept wickets falling regularly.

Coutts’ skipper Tim Tilse got 22, Dylan Lucas 23 and Andrew McLachlan 23, but no-one went on to get the big score that could have turned the game.

Souths relied on Cleaver to give its innings momentum, but he is back in the sheds for 37 of the team total of 50.

Another CRCA veteran, Matt Pigg, has steered Tucabia Copmanhurst out of deep trouble with a steady innings of 62 against Lawrence at Lower Fisher Turf, Grafton. Pigg hit seven fours and six in his 115-ball stay, but apart from 33 from Tim Bultitude no-one else reached 20.

For Lawrence opening bowler Nathan Williams was tightness personifed take 2/13 from 14 overs.

Ben Shaw and Darby Rouse also got a brace of wickets each as the Lawrence attack shared the spoils.

Lawrence only faced a single over and will resume at 0/2 on Saturday with Mark Ensbey 2no and Nathan Anderson yet to score.

A fle photo of GDSC Easts opening bowler Shannon Connor troubled who ripped through the Harwood top-order on Saturday. Photo: Gary Nichols

TIM HOWARD