NSW Health Issues Warning on High-Dose MDMA Tablets Circulating in NSW

NSW Health has issued a public alert regarding high-dose MDMA (ecstasy) tablets circulating in New South Wales, which have been found to contain unexpectedly high doses of MDMA. These skull-shaped tablets are labelled with the ‘MYBRAND’ imprint and have been seen in blue, yellow, and pink-orange colours.

Some tablets also contain dipentyl one, a synthetic cathinone with stimulant effects, about which limited information is available regarding its effects on people.

The presence of highdose MDMA combined with other stimulants, such as dipentyl one, amphetamines, or cocaine, increases the risk of serious health effects. Dr. Darren Roberts, Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, highlighted that high doses of MDMA have been linked to severe illness and fatalities in NSW.

“MDMA can cause extreme agitation, high body temperature, seizures, irregular heart rhythms, and even death,” Dr. Roberts cautioned.

NSW Health advises that MDMA-related risks escalate in hot environments, particularly at music festivals. To reduce the risk of overheating, festival-goers should take breaks from dancing, seek shade, and stay hydrated. Dr. Roberts emphasized the importance of seeking help promptly if someone feels unwell after drug use. “You won’t get into trouble for seeking medical help,” he reassured.

NSW Health reminds festival attendees of available resources, such as onsite medical teams and peer volunteers from DanceWize NSW, trained to provide support at major events. Further information on staying safe is available at Stay OK at Music Festivals.

Key Contacts: housing to support essential workers in the region.

• Emergency Help: Call Triple Zero (000) if urgent medical assistance is required.

• NSW Poisons Information Centre: 13 11 26 for advice on MDMA effects.

• Alcohol and Drug Information Service: 1800 250 015 for 24/7 confdential counselling and information.

• NSW Users and AIDS Association (NUAA): 1800 644 413 for harm minimization resources and support. For images of the tablets and more detailed information, visit the NSW Health Public Drug Warnings page.

3. Establish social or temporary housing to assist vulnerable community members.

“This consultation provides residents across the Tweed Shire a chance to shape a decision that will have wide-reaching impacts,” Cr Cherry added. “Whether for affordable housing or open community space, your input is crucial in guiding the future of this land.”

How to Participate:

The community consultation period runs from Monday, 4 November to 4 pm on Monday, 2 December. Residents can participate in several ways:

• Online: Complete a feedback form on Your Say Tweed.

• Email: Send a written submission to tsc@tweed.nsw.gov. au (Subject: Kingscliff Temporary Housing Village).

• Mail: Address submissions to The

General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816, Murwillumbah NSW 2484.

• In-person: Attend pop-up consultation events in Murwillumbah, Tweed Heads, or Kingscliff in November. All feedback will be compiled into a report to guide Council’s decision on the site’s future use. For more details and to access the feedback form, visit yoursaytweed. com.au/future-use-ofland.

Tenterfeld’s Community Spirit Shines with $150,000 Donation to Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service

The Tenterfeld Volunteer Support Group has once again demonstrated exceptional community spirit and generosity, presenting the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service with a remarkable $150,000 donation. This latest contribution brings the group’s total fundraising efforts since 2015 to nearly $700,000, a signifcant achievement for a town of just over 6,500 residents.

The funds, raised through an annual gala dinner, a golf day, and various other events and raffes throughout 2024, will directly support the Service’s operations at its Lismore base, aiding critical response efforts in the New England region.

Outgoing Support Group President John Landers extended heartfelt thanks to the community for its unwavering support, acknowledging individuals and local organizations like Michael Townes, the Tenterfeld Golf Club, and the Tenterfeld Bowling Club for their year-round assistance, particularly with the gala dinner and golf day.

Though Mr. Landers has stepped down as President following the recent Annual General Meeting, he remains committed to the Service as an active volunteer with the group. The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, in partnership with NSW Ambulance and NSW Health, provides vital aeromedical and rescue services across New South Wales. Each AW139 helicopter is equipped with a NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic and a NSW Health doctor, ensuring that the highest standard of critical care reaches those who need it most. This outstanding support from the Tenterfeld community underscores their dedication to a service that continually plays a life-saving role in the region.