The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 228

RESPECT MISSING INGREDIENT IN COUNCILLOR BEHAVIOUR

The need for councillors to show more respect for each other in public and private leads off the Clarence Valley Council’s response to a discussion paper on regulations covering councillor behaviour.

The NSW Offce of Local Government released a discussion seeking ideas for changes to the Model Code

of Conduct and Model Code of Meeting Practice, which are documents that guide council meetings.

It released the discussion paper around the time of the local government election in September and gave newly elected councils until November 16 to make submissions.

The council has been granted an extension to November 29 to make its submission, which is

the subject of a Mayoral Minute to the November 21 ordinary council meeting.

The OLG discussion paper noted the driver for change has been the large number of code of conduct complaints received.

The seven-page council response noted this but said the paper overlooked the need for more respectful behaviour.

not address an intent to improve the standard of behaviour to that expected by the community. The key missing principle is Respect,” the council response noted.

ASBESTOS IS FOUND IN 1 IN 3 HOMES ACROSS AUSTRALIA

“The principles of change however, do

“The Code should require councillors to display respectful behaviours and interactions with other councillors, the general manager, staff and the public.

(Continues Next Page)

TIM HOWARD

Clarence Valley Mayor Ray Smith will bring a mayoral minute seeking council’s endorsement of its response to calls for changes to regulations covering councillor behaviour and meeting practice.

By Samantha Elley on Page 9

By Newaste on Page 14

Respect missing ingredient in councillor behaviour

TIM HOWARD

“This includes refraining from unsubstantiated claims and criticisms in communications, social media, public forums and debate.

“Respectful behaviours and interaction should inform decisions and outcomes, not target individuals.”

The council response lists four other areas where it believe the discussion paper falls down.

It said councils, as the third tier of government must be able to show leadership and independence in decision making.

Restriction on council’s ability to set fees and charge and ordinary rates infuenced decision making and reduced independence.

The council agreed there was more need for transparency, but fagged concerns about banning pre-meeting briefngs.

It said these meetings created a “safe environment” for councillors and staff to discuss issue in an open manner.

It said removing these meeting could endanger a deeper understanding of complex issues, which would not be in the best interests of the community.

There was support for a strong and proportionate local government regulator.

“The regulator rarely intervenes as it is, and when it does it is slow to respond indicating the system is broken or the regulator is severely under resourced,” the council response said.

Key reforms outlined in the discussion paper, some of which would require changes to the Local Government Act 1993, include.

• Establishing a local government privileges committee of experienced councillors with mayoral experience

to assess complaints made against councillors for misbehaviour, consistent with practices in other tiers of government (where the conduct does not meet the threshold for police or referral to another investigative body or tribunal)

• Removing private investigators from the councillor conduct process, while strengthening the investigative capability of the Offce of Local Government to investigate and prosecute legitimate complaints (such as issuing penalty infringement notices where confict of interest declarations have not been made)

• Banning private councillor briefng sessions, except in very limited circumstances

• Strengthening lobbying guidelines for local government

• Giving mayors more power to expel councillors from

meetings for acts of disorder and remove their entitlement to receive a fee in the month of their indiscretion.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig described the current system as “fundamentally broken”.

“It is too open to weaponisation, with tit-for-tat complaints diverting critical council resources and ratepayer money from the things that matter most to communities,” Mr Hoenig said.

“The sheer volume of vexatious complaints being made is preventing the Offce of Local Government from focussing its attention on getting crooks out of the local government sector.

Mr Hoenig said the options in the discussion paper put the onus onto councils to address and resolve councillor misbehaviour rather than send matters to the state government or private

investigators to fx.

“It also puts forward options to strengthen the role of the Offce of Local Government as the sector regulator, including expanded investigation powers for serious confict of interest breaches and the ability to issue penalty infringement notices,” he said.

“For far too long the system has been abused. It’s time to restore public confdence in councils and ensure the dignity of this vital third tier of government is upheld.”

The discussion paper can be viewed via the QR code below.

Public submission closed on November 15.

2024 Beef Gross Margin Budgets Refect Industry Strength Amid Challenges

IAN ROGERS

The latest gross margin budgets from the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) reveal that returns from beef enterprises across New South Wales remain steady, with slight variations due to market conditions and rising costs.

Key highlights from the analysis include:

• Inland weaner production margins rose slightly from $39.22/Dry Sheep Equivalent (DSE) to $39.79/DSE.

• Coastal weaners on improved pasture saw an increase from $40.14/ DSE to $41.83/DSE.

• Feeder steers from self-replacing herds improved marginally from $51.69/DSE to $52.14/DSE.

• However, margins for

growing out purchased weaner steers to feedlot weights fell signifcantly from $48.61/DSE to $41.41/DSE, refecting a decline of approximately $60 per steer.

Challenges and Opportunities

Todd Andrews, NSW DPIRD Beef Development Offcer, highlighted rising transport and animal health costs as key pressures on the sector. Despite these challenges, the robust prices for weaners and the potential

to grow steers to heavier weights offer promising opportunities.

“Producers in regions with strong seasonal conditions, such as the Hunter, Central, and Northern NSW, might consider fnishing steers on pasture to achieve heavier carcase weights instead of sending them to feedlots. However, this strategy requires careful assessment of growth patterns and market prices,” said Mr. Andrews.

Branded Grassfed

Beef Markets on the Rise

The revival of branded grassfed beef markets, after a slow period in 2023, presents a proftable avenue for producers capable of fnishing cattle on grass. Crossbred weaner heifers, currently discounted compared to steers, offer signifcant potential for grassfed programs.

“Producers with robust record-keeping and stock management practices can capitalize on the

premium prices offered by these markets,” Mr. Andrews noted.

Cost Relief and Export Demand

• Fertiliser prices have declined, easing cost pressures slightly, but rising transport costs remain a concern.

• Export demand for Australian beef, particularly from the USA, is projected to remain strong, with potential increases in 2025-26.

“Producers who focus on boosting productivity while managing costs and risks will be wellpositioned to thrive in the coming years,” Andrews concluded.

Further Information

For a detailed breakdown of the 2024 Beef Gross Margin Budgets, visit the NSW DPIRD website: NSW DPI Budgets.

Civic centre demolition excites councillor

TIM HOWARD

The news that demolition of the Maclean Civic Centre is about to begin is a prayer answered says at least one Clarence Valley councillor.

“All I can say is, hallelujah, this is happening,” said Cr Debrah Novak at the last ordinary council meeting.

“It’s been on the books for about 30 years, and a part of the community desire for even longer to have an extraordinary

new building down in Maclean.

“So this is going to be a really, really important place for performing arts and culture in the lower Clarence, and it brings us up with what happens here in Grafton.”

Cr Novak said the community shared her excitement at the start of work and frustration with the delays.

“And I’m just so excited that our community will actually get to see this, because they keep saying to me, ‘it’s never going to

happen’.

“It is going to happen. So well done, Team Clarence for getting this onto the table and being demolished.

“And I’m very, very excited to be a part of the project when it’s completed, and being there on opening night.”

The report to council said the new Maclean Community Precinct would include a 290-seat auditorium and box offce, a function room overlooking the Clarence River, multipurpose meeting rooms, a

commercial kitchen as well as outdoor landscaped meeting places and a new carpark.

Mayor Ray Smith said he’s looking forward to the Maclean Community Precinct bringing more performing arts opportunities to the Clarence Valley.

“It’s great we are moving forward on this project, with demolition in the works. The new facility will replace the existing run-down facility, that is poorly functioning and does not

comply with disability access standards,” he said.

“Strategic review indicated a lack of local performing arts spaces that were appropriate to host contemporary events.

“With 48 River Street, Maclean chosen as the ideal site for a facility to meet this need, the sky is the limit for performing arts in the Clarence Valley.”

Community consultation has been undertaken in the planning of this new

facility, with Clarence Valley Council communicating with user groups and residents throughout the design stage.

Demolition will begin this month with construction to commence in 2025.

The Maclean Community Precinct is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Government’s Bushfre Local Economic Recovery Fund in association with Clarence Valley Council.

Cr Debrah Novak

An artist’s impression of the Maclean Civic Centre which is due to begin construction early next year. Demolition of the existing building begins this month.

Creatives called to take the Plunge

Twerking to fght prostate cancer

SAMANTHA ELLEY

It is not only men who are joining in Movember this month to raise funds to fght prostate cancer.

For the last 10 years

Organisers of the Clarence Valley’s next year’s celebration of all things creative, the annual Plunge Festival, are calling for entries from cultural businesses, and organisations.

t exhibitions, music, dance and theatre performances, open studios, artist trails or creative workshops for all ages are encouraged to register before Monday, January 6 to be included in the festival program.

The 2025 festival will run from March 29 through to April 30 and promotion is free for organisations based in the Clarence Valley.

The Program will be released early February online and distributed through Clarence Valley Council offces, libraries, and galleries as well as arts and cultural businesses and organisations throughout the region.

Clarence Valley Mayor Ray Smith said he is excited to see what will be on offer for the 2025 program.

“The Plunge program highlights the best of what our region has

to offer for locals and visitors who want to try something creative or take in a show or performance,” said Cr Smith.

“I’d like to encourage members of the arts & culture sector to take part and showcase the creativity that exists in the Clarence Valley.”

Clarence Valley Council is pleased to support the Plunge Arts & Culture Festival and assist the growth of our cultural economy.

Since 2013 more than 2000 events have been promoted through the festival program.

The creative arts are a powerful tool for social engagement and connection for our region.

Arts and Culture projects share the stories about where we live and who we are, addressing some of the most pressing challenges we face today.

They also bring people together and are a critical element for building and maintaining our community networks.

Register your event via the Clarence Valley Council Website.

Shai Lawrence has been a ‘Mo Sister’ and will be putting on a big event this year to reach her goal of $10,000 since she started.

“My goal this year is $2,485 as that will take me to $10,000 in total that I’ve raised for Movember,” she said.

“It’s a huge milestone and I never thought in a million years I could do that solo.

“Being female raising money for a men’s charity is a little more diffcult as I kept it quite female focused.”

Now, with the support of local businesses Shai is holding a raffe with some great prizes.

“There are four prize packs with a total of donations being $3,000,” she said.

“Then on November 30 I will be holding a ‘mini’ charity event which is very dance focused.

“We will start with a bit of breathwork and meditation on the

beach, then relocate to the Lennox Cultural Centre with some dance workshops.”

The dance workshops will include contemporary movement and a ‘twerkshop’.

Shai’s motivation for working so hard to raise money for prostate

wishes to all Year 12 students the future is in your hands and I am confident you will do amazing things

cancer can be found in her relationship with the men in her family.

“An amazing man I called Poppa David passed away from prostate cancer in 2003,” she explained in her Movember donation space.

“A few months later, my ‘old pop’ (greatgrandfather) also passed from prostate cancer.

“At the start of 2023 my dad…had a prostate cancer scare and my uncle, in the say year, had his prostate removed, so this charity means a whole lot to me and my family.”

Authorised

TIM HOWARD

Plunging into Culture at the Wild About Wooli Art show. Photo by Chloe Van Dorp.

Movember Shai Lawrence

Little Stray opens in Woodburn

SAMANTHA ELLEY

If you have tasted the coffee from Stray café in Evans Head and loved it, you are going to be delighted to hear that owners, Damo Robertson and Jessica Grace, have opened Little Stray in Woodburn.

In the premises of the old Rich River Café, they have set up their espresso bar where people can grab a coffee and bagel or any of the dessert delights with gluten free options on offer.

“I started in the coffee business 15 years ago in West End Brisbane as a way of getting out of being a bartender,” he said.

“(I was) sick of the night life.

“When I moved back down to this area, I started the coffee cart in a converted horse trailer at Evans Head Fish Co-op.”

Damo had the cart for 18 months before the food damaged the co-op, so then he found the old Evans to Betsy site, where he had worked as a barista before starting the cart.

“The owners asked me if I’d like to take on the coffee shop,” he said.

“I didn’t have anything at all, I put the coffee machine from the cart at the front door as the shop was empty.”

With Stray now established as an eat-in café and thriving with a good local following, the couple and their family of two young

girls bought a house in Woodburn.

“This opportunity came up to open here (in Woodburn),” he said.

“I always wanted to own a couple of coffee shops that supports us.

“I now have 10 staff (at Evans Head) and I’ve employed someone for Woodburn but I am looking for more staff.”

Little Stray opened on Saturday, November 16 and despite there being a number of coffee shops on River Street, he hopes that he will bring more people to Woodburn.

“We will offer freshly squeezed cold pressed juice, toasted bagels and gluten free pastries,” he said.

“We use Old Quarter coffee, all hand-picked, nothing mass produced.”

‘90th year of Trade Celebration’

Photo: Damo Robertson, owner of Little Stray, behind the coffee machine in Woodburn.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

The vintage detail on the walls of the old Vogue theatre, now Centre Church in Lismore, has damage on it that hasn’t been restored since the 2022 food.

And according to associate pastor, Rebekka Battista, it will never be repaired.

“It is part of our history now,” she said.

“It is a reminder of what we’ve been through.”

The rest of the church, however, has undergone a huge restoration after the February 2022 food

Worship back in the heart

waters smashed through the building destroying everything in its path, including the foor to the main auditorium.

“It was sloped like a skate ramp,” said Rebekka.

“When we pulled up our 30 metre by 20 metre hardwood foor, it revealed the damage where the water had rushed in and blew out all the pillars underneath the foor right along one side of the wall.

“When we got the engineers in, they said we had to take all the pillars out and rebuild every one of them on the existing foundation built in the 1930s.”

Over the next 31 months the church family had to move to a hall at Summerland Christian School as money was found and repairs took place.

The church had contents insurance of $230,000 and they received a $200,000 grant from the state government.

“However, our foor

cost $600,000 to fx,” said Rebekka.

“So (we received) donations of other churches from South East Queensland and all over Australia.

“Also from Convoy of Hope, Hillsong, King’s Care, Love Our City based out of the Gold Coast.”

Then on November 3, the doors opened again when they held their frst service in the building since the food.

“We invited everyone who had worked on the building, all our tradies, we invited everyone who donated, all those agencies that had come and helped us, obviously

our church family and also the Lismore community,” Rebekka said.

“We all work in the community and what I found was people were really interested even if they weren’t faith-based people; they wanted to know how the church was going.”

Upgrades made to the building included putting in a disabled toilet, expanding the kitchen, ducted air-conditioning and a ramp out the front that is up to code.

“The food did us a favour where we could make changes we wouldn’t have been able to,” said Rebekka.

Diary of a Flood Survivor

It is good to see the kind spirit of those who helped in the food is still alive and well.

Last week my son was driving late at night through Goonellabah when he hit a large pot hole.

The front tyre on his little Hyundai didn’t like that very much and burst, effectively leaving him stranded far from home.

As he started the process of changing his tyre, a young man by the

name of Daniel stopped to help.

They realised when the spare was put on, like so often happens, it was also fat.

Daniel said he had a compressor at home and could easily pump the tyre up and bring it back to my son, which he did.

The tyre was replaced and my son went on his way.

He didn’t get this man’s last name and I’d say, he probably wouldn’t want to

be publicly named anyway, but I would like to note here a huge thanks to Daniel from Goonellabah who took time out to help a stranger.

**

There’s nothing I like more than seeing a workman at our house, because that means something is being fxed, renovated or replaced.

This week it was our new builder, Hamish McAllister, who is

replacing our temporary front door (which we’ve had for nearly three years) with a lovely, grand one.

We will also get the rest of our internal doors put on, which means no more gyprock blocking the door to the garage to stop the dog from running out under the cars.

Next week I will hopefully have a photo of the fnished doors to show off. Little steps.

Associate pastor Rebekka Battista in the renovated auditorium. Photo Samantha Elley

Sunday Service - Church opens again on November 3. Contributed

The damage in the main auditorium. Contributed.

Damage on the walls which will never be repaired as a reminder of their history and what they’ve experienced. Photo Samantha Elley

Council meetings switch to new time

For the frst time in 20 years Clarence Valley Council ordinary meetings have moved from Tuesday afternoons to Thursday mornings.

From the time of the frst meeting of the amalgamated council on April 27, Tuesday afternoon on the third and then fourth Tuesday of the month was meeting day.

But the council elected on September 14 has put an end to that, moving the meeting date to Thursday and going a step further moving the meeting time forward to 11.30am.

The second step might be short lived as anonymously a couple of councillors have said the late morning start would create issues if meetings extended into the afternoon beyond lunch time.

Councillors might

be asked to consider moving the start time to 1pm to get avoid hunger pangs mid debate.

Thursday’s meeting has a meaty agenda with more than 30 items up for resolution.

The frst item of ordinary business, after Mayoral Minutes and Notices of Motion, of which there are one each, is the selection of the council-appointed member of the general manager’s performance review panel.

The current general manager, Laura Black was installed in October 2022, although she had been acting general manager from late 2021.

The newly elected council in 2022 decided to stick with her and earlier this year controversially awarded her a 2% pay increase after a glowing review of her performance.

But it was a controversial decision

which split the council and the decision was made during a highly charged extraordinary meeting which split the council 5-4 in favour of the pay rise.

It also revealed some strongly held views about the general manager, which included allegations from Cr Karen Toms that there was a group of councillors “out to get the general manager”.

The general manager has also been involved in other controversial matters including allegations of legal action taken against Yamba community group Yamba CAN.

The make up of the review panel must conform to equal opportunity employment principles.

As well as the mayor and deputy, the policy suggests gender balance must be a consideration.

The mayor, Ray Smith

and deputy Greg Clancy are automatic selections with the council and general manager to select one each.

Current councillors Debrah Novak and Karen Toms have been council and general manager picks on the panel in the past.

Once the council has resolved who will be appointed, Ms Black will announce her pick for the panel.

The panels decision was scheduled for October, but due to the elections has been tentatively set for December.

Other items include a proposal to endorse the hat Council Endorse the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee terms of reference, internal audit charger, four-year Strategic Internal Audit Plan 20242028 and Annual Internal Audit Plan 2024-2025.

Council will also be

asked to note the Audit, Risk and Improvement meeting minutes for August 8 2024 and note the ARIC’s Annual Report 2023-2024.

Later in the meeting, councillors will learn November’s big wet has delayed the opening of the controversial Clarence Valley Regional Aquatic Centre.

From October 1 to November 12024, Grafton recorded 164.2mm of rainfall, which has resulted in delays to critical construction delays to concrete pours, clockwork construction and electrical work.

Even with allocation of additional resources it has not been enough to meet the original opening deadline of December 2024 for the opening of the centre.

But council’s contractor, Hines Construction believes a partial opening in

December of the Grafton Olympic Pool and surrounds.

The company said the Grafton Cub Scout Memorial Indoor Pool and splashpad was expected to be open in early 2025.

It was anticipated that the construction team will fnalise works before Christmas and resume in January, so the revised expected completion for the aquatic centre in its entirety is February, 2025.

This will delay the offcial opening of the centre to February 2025, which also allows time for the event to be planned and arrangements made for the attendance of dignitaries, in accordance with grant agreements.

A workshop with councillors will be held in early December to gather ideas for the opening.

TIM HOWARD

The newly elected Clarence Valley Council has decided to move its meeting day to the third Thursday of each month. The council is, from left: Karen Toms, Debrah Novak, Lynne Cairns, Shane Causley, deputy mayor Greg Clancy, Peter Johnstone, Alison Whaites, Cristie Yager and Mayor Ray Smith.

Squatters and traffc highlighted in council meeting

SAMANTHA ELLEY

Lismore City Council settled in to its second ordinary meeting since the local government elections in September and new councillors were fnding their feet.

Some of the main topics up for discussion included the Nimbin Place Plan, the request for land by the Richmond River Gun club and a question on notice about squatters living in food-affected homes in Pine Street, North Lismore.

Diana Roberts from the Nimbin Chamber of Commerce spoke in the public forum asking council to highlight a few specifc issues before approving the Nimbin Place Plan.

These included a comprehensive traffc management plan.

Ms Roberts said while the current plan talks of active transport, it

doesn’t deal with specifc vehicle movements.

“The chamber does support the recommendations and the priorities identifed in the plan,” she said.

“There is one major issue not addressed in the plan and that’s traffc management.

“There are incredible concerns that we’ve raised with the general manager walking around the village with councillors who have been there.”

There was also an issue with the Rainbow Walk being renamed and the public toilets, both owned by council. The toilets are in need of refurbishment and a request was made for water hoses to be added for the street plants.

Cr Guise moved to add the extra requests and Cr Robb asked for a Plan of Management for 9 Sibley Street and surrounding areas, including Peace Park.

These would be considered as funding becomes available.

It was voted unanimously.

The other popular topic raised in the public forum was the Question of Notice regarding people who are squatting in the Pine Street houses that have been bought back by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

The question was raised around any agreement between Council and the NSW Reconstruction Authority to allow the squatters to take up residence and what are the enforcement powers

by Council over the squatters, along with who is paying for the rubbish that is collected from them.

Miriam Torzillo, a North Lismore resident spoke on the concern over the hundreds of empty houses and their fate and the housing crisis affecting Lismore.

“I would argue people are living in those houses are caring for those houses and furthermore they are not being added to the extremely long waiting list for social housing,” she said.

“I want to propose as a North Lismore resident that the situation in Pine

Street does not need an intervention by Council.

“Empty boarded up houses on the one hand and the housing crisis on the other, that is why I refer to those living in the houses as caretakers.”

Emma Dorge is also a resident of Lismore and connected with the Pine Street squatters.

She spoke of the cost of having to house the homeless would be more than any cost on what rubbish collection may be.

Cr Robb asked why people, mainly travellers, would be allowed to jump the queue and break into houses with no permission and not use those houses for people at the top of the list.

“I think it is a pertinent question as to why hundreds of houses have been left empty in a housing crisis,” said Ms Dorge.

“But that is one for the

government and not one I can answer, the RA created this situation for people that are renting having to move out even if they had nowhere else to go.

“The reality is people aren’t jumping the queue because (the houses) aren’t being offered to anyone else, they are taking it to put a roof over their head.”

Council staff advised they have liaised with the NSW Reconstruction Authority who are working in partnership with NSW Police, Sheriff’s offce and Homes NSW regarding the occupations.

And while Council has not entered into any agreement with the Authority or have jurisdiction to evict trespassers, it has from time to time collected rubbish from the properties in question to reduce the risk of illegal dumping.

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$6-Million Project to Boost Mullumbimby’s Water Supply Resilience

ROBERT HEYWARD

The reliability and resilience of Mullumbimby’s water supply will soon be signifcantly improved with the announcement of the $6 million Mullumbimby Water Main Upgrade project. Delivered through a partnership between the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA), NSW Public Works, and Byron Shire Council, the project is part of the $145 million Northern Rivers Water and Wastewater Repair and Recovery Program.

Addressing Water Supply Challenges

Mullumbimby’s water supply, sourced from Laverty’s Gap weir on Wilsons Creek, faced severe disruptions

during the 2019/20 drought and 2022 foods, necessitating an emergency connection to the regional water network to partially supply the town.

These events underscored the need for a robust and expanded emergency water system to ensure water availability for the entire town during future crises.

Scope of the Project

The Mullumbimby Water Main Upgrade will bolster water security by:

• Installing a new dedicated water main within the Tandy’s Lane road reserve between Pacifc Highway and Gulgan Road, and from Mullumbimby Road/ Manns Road to the Azalea Street Reservoirs.

• Building a new water booster pump station and bypass at the Azalea Street reservoir site.

• Conducting minor water main upgrades at the Left Bank Road/Tristran Road intersection.

Project Impact

Once completed in mid-2025, the project will:

• Ensure a reliable and safe water supply for Mullumbimby.

• Enhance the town’s resilience to adverse weather events such as foods and droughts.

• Future-proof Mullumbimby’s water infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing population and changing climate.

Keane Civil & Construction has been engaged by Byron Shire Council to deliver this critical infrastructure upgrade.

Statements from Key Stakeholders

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully:

“The 2022 foods revealed signifcant vulnerabilities in water infrastructure across the Northern Rivers. This project will strengthen Mullumbimby’s water system, ensuring resilience and reliability for years to come.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery, Janelle

Saffn:

“Access to clean water is a basic human right. By investing in this project now, we’re ensuring Mullumbimby is better prepared for future foods and extreme weather events.”

Cameron Clark, Byron Shire Council Manager Utilities:

“Extending the emergency water connection to cover all of Mullumbimby is a vital step in securing a sustainable water supply. This upgrade supports the future growth of our vibrant community while addressing the challenges of a changing environment.”

Learn More For more information about the Mullumbimby Water Main Upgrade project, visit the Byron Shire Council website.

$52 Million Boost to Accelerate Byron Shire’s Disaster Recovery

Drive (2 locations)

• Left Bank Road (2 locations)

The Albanese and Minns Governments have jointly approved $52.5 million in additional disaster recovery funding to help the Byron Shire Council restore essential road infrastructure damaged by past natural disasters. This funding, part of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, will enhance the safety and resilience of key roads across the region.

Scope of the Project

The funding will support extensive repairs to landslips and damaged roads, including:

• Coolamon Scenic

• Wilsons Creek Road (3 locations)

• Coopers Creek Road (2 locations)

• Huonbrook Road (5 locations)

• Johnsons Road (4 locations)

• Main Arm Road, Frasers Road, St Helena Road, Goonengerry Road, The Pocket Road (3 locations), Monet Drive, Dry Creek Road, Wanganui Road, Possum Shoot Road, and Tristran Parade.

Eight funding packages, ranging from $506,000 to $15.89 million, have been allocated to address

Proposed Road Disposal Section 152D Roads Act 1993

these repairs. Given the extensive nature of the work, the project is expected to span several years.

Federal and State Leadership

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Jenny McAllister:

“The 2022 foods had an enduring impact on the community of Byron Shire. We’re restoring roads to help families stay connected and businesses access reliable transport routes. This is about recovery and long-term resilience.”

Federal Member for Richmond, Justine Elliot:

In accordance with section 152D of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given of the proposed sale of the Crown public roads listed in Schedule 1. If a sale proceeds, the road(s) will cease to be a public road upon transfer of the road to freehold land in accordance with section 152H of the Act.

Schedule 1:

• Crown road at Upper Mongogarie within the property 115 Upper Cherry Tree Road. (File ref: 24/13244, Cluster: 673672)

All interested persons are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal to Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure – Crown Lands, PO Box 2215, DANGAR NSW 2309 within twenty-eight (28) days of the date of this advertisement.

Any person is entitled to make submissions with respect to the sale or disposal of the road. Please note that submissions may be referred to third parties (such as council or the applicant) for consideration in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 For the Manager, Divestments

For further enquiries please visit the website roads.crownland.nsw.gov.au or contact Megan McCullough by email at megan.mccullough@crownland.nsw.gov.au or on (02) 6640 3928 quoting fle references above.

“These road upgrades are about building back better. I’m proud to see the Albanese Government partnering with the Minns Government to ensure locals have safer, more reliable roads.”

NSW Minister for Planning, Paul Scully:

“Recent weather events have taken a heavy toll on the Byron Shire. This investment will restore travel routes and improve resilience.”

Local and Regional Support

NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison:

“The North Coast is particularly vulnerable

Northern NSW Local Health District

to severe weather. This funding helps ensure Byron Shire residents can reconnect faster after disasters.”

NSW Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffn:

“This signifcant investment improves road safety for residents and visitors alike, and I’m pleased to collaborate with my colleague, Tamara Smith, to secure these funds.”

Byron Shire Council Manager of Infrastructure Recovery, Phil Warner: “While we’re thrilled to receive this funding, some repairs will take years due to planning, approvals, and securing

Northern NSW Local Health District Notice of public meeting

Community members are invited to attend the Northern NSW Local Health District 2024 Annual Public Meeting. 2:00pm to 3:30pm Wednesday 27 November Virtual Meeting (via Teams)

resources. We thank the community for their patience and will provide updates on project timelines.”

Building Resilience for the Future

The funding not only addresses immediate recovery needs but also ensures the region is better prepared for future natural disasters. By repairing and reinforcing critical infrastructure, the Byron Shire will beneft from safer, more resilient transport routes, strengthening connections for residents, businesses, and visitors. For more details, visit the NSW Government Disaster Recovery page.

The meeting will include:

• Overview of the health district’s performance, achievements, and strategic priorities

• Opportunity for the community to ask questions

• Update on the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment

Email NNSWLHD-engagement@health.nsw.gov.au to have the link sent directly to you, or join the meeting on the day via the link at nnswlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/getinvolved/2024AGM

IAN ROGERS

Rous improves drainage systems in Coraki and Woodburn to reduce food water inundation

Rous County Council (Rous) has completed works to improve drainage systems in the villages of Coraki and Woodburn in the Northern Rivers.

The purpose of the project is to enhance the drain’s fow and function and allow for a quicker recovery after food events – beneftting local residents, businesses and communities.

Delivered by Rous, the $150,000 project was funded by the Australian Government’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP). It is one of 36 projects being delivered under the $150 million NRRRP,

which aims to drive long-term resilience and ensure communities are better equipped to withstand and recover from future disasters.

Coraki and Woodburn have ‘town drains’ which are one of the main pathways that foodwaters drain from the villages. These drains do not prevent fooding but rather reduce the length of time of

inundation.

Rous surveyed both drains to better understand how they function and what works would be required to improve their operation. The systems were mechanically cleaned using an excavator, removing vegetation and silt from the drains and debris from previous food events.

Woody weeds, including Coral Trees and Camphor Laurels, have also been removed from the banks to provide a clearer channel for greater fow.

Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said these works are an important step to better protecting communities in the Northern Rivers.

“Improving drainage systems and removing debris is an easy and practical way to help reduce the risk of any future foods,” she said.

“The Albanese Government is working

with all levels of government to help ensure communities in the North Coast are better prepared for the next food.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery

Janelle Saffn said clearing the drainage systems in the villages of Coraki and Woodburn would help build resilience for a future food event.

“This is a really practical example of a project that will positively impact these communities and lead to less food inundation time following foods,” she said.

“It is also a positive example of three layers of government working together to implement food mitigation measures following the foods of 2022.”

Robert Mustow, Chair for Rous County Council, said: “Both villages bore the brunt of the catastrophic 2022 foods and it’s great to

see this investment in these local drainage systems.”

Chrisy Clay, Flood Mitigation Manager, for Rous County Council, said the work had been completed with the assistance of locally based contractors.

“We are very grateful for the funding made available through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program and the assistance of the NSW Reconstruction Authority in completing these works,” she said.

“The improvements to the Coraki and Woodburn town drains are an example of the work Rous does to manage and maintain its large network of rural food mitigation infrastructure.

“This network includes 190km of drains and canals, which are highly valued by foodplain landowners and residents for the service we provide.”

As part of the project Coraki Town Drain was mechanically cleaned to remove vegetation, silt, sediment and debris.

A section of Woodburn Town Drain, to the south of the village, showing the improvements made to the system.

A section of Coraki Town Drain, close to the Coraki temporary housing village, showing the improvements made to the system.

Asbestos is found in 1 in 3 homes across Australia

Asbestos Awareness Week (25 Nov – 01 Dec)

If your home was built or renovated before 1990, it could contain asbestos. Asbestos is commonly found in cement sheeting used for walls, ceilings and roofs and in thousands of other building products including vinyl fooring, adhesives, paints, textured coatings and insulation.

You can’t tell if a material contains asbestos just by looking at it and asbestos is dangerous when damaged, disturbed or deteriorated so you shouldn’t remove it yourself.

The statistics are shocking. Four thousand people a year still die from asbestos related diseases in Australia!

To keep yourself and your family safe and

avoid becoming part of that statistic, get in the know about asbestos before you begin any renovations on your home. Plan ahead and if you’re not sure when your house was built or previously renovated, assume asbestos is present.

If you think you might have asbestos in your home, avoid damaging or disturbing any material until you’ve

had it tested. Northern Rivers councils offer subsidised ‘Household Asbestos Testing’ (HAT) kits, which include instructions on how to take samples safely and send them to a certifed testing laboratory. If asbestos is identifed and requires removal, you should then contact a licensed professional https://verify.licence.nsw. gov.au/home to remove and dispose of it safely.

It’s dangerous and illegal to dispose of asbestos waste in any domestic or commercial bin and doing so can incur very heavy fnes. Asbestos waste should always be disposed of at a landfll licensed to accept it, and in compliance with all necessary handling, transportation and quantity requirements.

To fnd out more visit https://www.newaste.

org.au/asbestos/#up.

For further information about managing or disposing of household asbestos or obtaining a Household Asbestos Testing kit, contact your local council or visit https://www. newaste.org.au/asbestos

For more information on asbestos safety visit https://www.asbestos. nsw.gov.au

Jack Evans Boat Harbour takes out top land management award

ROBERT HEYWARD

Tweed Shire Council has been honoured with the NSW Government Council Crown Land Management Excellence Award at the 2024 Community Achievement Awards for NSW and the ACT. The recognition celebrates the Council’s outstanding work on the revitalisation of Jack Evans Boat Harbour, a landmark public park in Tweed Heads.

The upgraded facilities, offcially opened earlier this year, feature improved swimming access and youth recreational amenities,

creating a vibrant and inclusive space for residents and visitors.

The award acknowledges the Council’s efforts in transforming the precinct into a premier urban parkland that promotes health, recreation, and community engagement.

Mayor Chris Cherry Commends Collaborative Efforts

Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry praised the teamwork and dedication that brought the project to life.

“This recognition refects the collaborative spirit of everyone who has contributed to transforming this area into a vibrant hub for recreation and tourism,”

Cr Cherry said. “Jack Evans Boat Harbour is a great spot for swimming and relaxed recreation. Transforming this park, while being true to what the community wants, has ensured it has become even more loved than before. It’s great for the team’s work to be recognised like this – congratulations to everyone involved!”

Revitalisation

Features

Over the past two years, the Jack Evans Boat Harbour precinct has undergone signifcant upgrades guided by the Jack Evans Boat Harbour (JEBH) Plan of Management, which

was developed in close consultation with the community.

Key improvements include:

• Inclusive Playspace: Goorimahbah Place of Stories, a regional playspace designed for accessibility and inclusivity.

• Youth Recreation Area: A half-basketball court and skate area.

• Decking and Shade: Replacement of timber decking with tiered composite decking, complemented by shade structures and umbrellas.

• Accessible Amenities: Picnic facilities, seating, and pathway connections for all users.

• Sustainable

Landscaping: Additional tree planting and landscaping that refects Aboriginal cultural connections.

• Public Art and Bike Racks: Enhancing visual appeal and supporting sustainable transport options.

Community-Centric

Planning

The upgrades were driven by strong community input, ensuring the precinct aligns with local needs and aspirations. The revitalised Jack Evans Boat Harbour is now a gathering space that fosters connection, recreation, and wellbeing.

The project exemplifes

the NSW Government’s commitment to fostering active, inclusive spaces under initiatives like the Places to Swim program. For more information, visit Your Say Tweed or NSW Places to Swim.

About the Community Achievement Awards

Since their inception in 2002, the Community Achievement Awards have celebrated the contributions of individuals, businesses, and communities across NSW and the ACT.

These awards highlight projects that make the region a better place to live, work, and thrive.

For further details, visit the offcial awards website.

NSW Custody Statistics Quarterly Update

JEFF GIBBS

The NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) has released its NSW Custody Statistics Quarterly Update for September 2024, providing insights into adult prison and youth detention trends across the state.

KEY FINDINGS

Adult Prison Population

• Total Custody: In September 2024, 12,897 adults were in custody, unchanged from June 2024 (12,917) but up 5% year-on-year (+625 from 12,272 in September 2023).

• Remand Trends: The number of adults on remand remained stable over the past quarter (5,643 in September 2024 vs. 5,763 in June 2024) but increased

signifcantly over the past year (+660 or 13.2%).

• Domestic Violence (DV) Remandees:

o 55% of the remand population increase over the past year is attributed to DV cases.

o 31% of remandees were held for DV offences in September 2024, up from 28% in September 2023.

o Key DV offences contributing to this increase:

- DV assault: +218 (+28.7%) to 978

- DV intimidation/ stalking: +64 (+36.2%) to 241

- Breach of ADVO: +35 (+76.1%) to 81

- DV sexual offences: +31 (+10%) to 349

• Aboriginal Prison Population:

o Aboriginal adults in custody reached a record high of 4,103, representing 32% of the adult prison population in NSW.

o Aboriginal remandees increased by 14.5% (+236) over the past year.

o Nearly half of Aboriginal adults in custody are on remand (45.4%).

Youth Detention Trends

• Total Youth

Detention: In September 2024, 209 young people were in detention, a 15% decline (-37) from June 2024, which marked the highest point since the pandemic.

• Remand Decline: The decrease in youth detention is primarily driven by a drop in young people on remand (145 in September 2024, down 22.9% or -43 since June 2024).

• Primary Offences in Youth Custody:

o Car theft: 14.3%

(31 young people)

o Robbery: 13.9% (29 young people)

o Break and enter: 13.4% (28 young people)

• Aboriginal Youth Detention:

o Aboriginal young people make up 60% of the youth detention population (125 individuals).

o Most are from Regional NSW, with 73.6% of Aboriginal youth detainees coming from areas such as:

- New England and North West (Moree, Tamworth, Armidale)

- Mid-North Coast (Kempsey, Mid-Coast)

- Far West & Orana (Dubbo, Bourke)

Conclusion

The data highlights pressing issues,

including the growing representation of Aboriginal people in custody and the signifcant role of domestic violencerelated offences in remand trends. Conversely, the decline in youth detention refects progress in addressing remand numbers among young people.

For further information, please refer to the full NSW Custody Statistics Quarterly Update September 2024 via the QR code below.

The new Places to Swim area at Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Tweed Heads, is part of a signifcant upgrade to the popular border park.

The new youth precinct at Jack Evans Boat Harbour includes skating elements and a half basketball court.

LISMORE MAYOR ELECTED NEW CHAIR OF REGIONAL CITIES NSW

IAN ROGERS

Regional Cities New South Wales (RCNSW) has elected a new Chair and Deputy Chair for a two-year term.

Lismore City Council Mayor, Cr Steve Krieg was elected as Chair and Cr Russell Webb, Mayor of Tamworth Regional Council, was re-elected Deputy Chair at a board meeting in Sydney yesterday.

The new leadership will lead the organisation post-NSW local government elections, which took place in September.

Cr Krieg said he was proud to lead Regional

Cities New South Wales as it advocated for a fair share of investment and population growth to ensure regional cities continued to thrive.

“Regional Cities New South Wales is an important advocate for its members and has a proven track record as a valuable partner for the State Government,” Cr Krieg said.

“I am passionate about the work of Regional Cities NSW. Our members are a similar size and are facing similar issues. Together, we are stronger.

“We have much work to do as we are on the frontline of change in New South Wales.

This includes growing populations, energy transition and climate impacts.

“Our cities are also highly liveable and we know regional living is on the minds of many Sydneysiders. We want our cities to retain their liveability as new residents continue to make the move.

“As chair, I will be a strong voice for our member cities as we meet these opportunities.”

Cr Webb retained his position as Deputy Chair.

“I’m very happy to be reappointed as Deputy Chair,” Cr Webb said. “It has been fantastic working with Mayors,

General Managers and CEOs of Regional Cities New South Wales.”

“Cr Krieg will lead us in the right direction and I am looking forward to working in partnership as we continue to build our strong network of relationships in Macquarie Street,” Cr Webb said.

Cr Krieg also noted the work of Cr Mathew Dickerson, who stepped down as Chair after the New South Wales local government elections.

“Cr Dickerson has left a great legacy as I take the reins of Regional Cities NSW,” Cr Krieg said.

“Cr Dickerson has led us through the many challenges we have encountered over the past few years, particularly as our members faced natural disasters, housing availability and growing skills shortages.

“Regional cities have received key support in these areas due to his leadership and advocacy. There is still much to do, but the impacts in these areas have been meaningful for our communities,” Cr Krieg concluded.

Coles and Woolworths Face Scrutiny in ACCC Hearings Over Supermarket Practices

ROBERT HEYWARD

Coles and Woolworths are under the spotlight as they provide evidence at this week’s ACCC hearings, part of an ongoing inquiry into supermarket practices.

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) Horticulture Council is urging the ACCC to delve deeply into the supermarkets’ buying processes, which it claims exploit growers due to the perishable nature of their products.

“Horticulture underpins Australia’s national food security, supplying 98% of the country’s fresh fruit and vegetables,” said Jolyon Burnett, Chair

of the NFF Horticulture Council. “Yet growers are at the mercy of Woolworths and Coles due to their dominant market position—one of the most signifcant retail duopolies in the developed world—and the time-sensitive nature of their produce.”

Burnett highlighted the limited bargaining power of growers, who are often forced to accept unfavourable terms to avoid their produce becoming unsellable.

The ACCC has described these situations as involving “take-it-orleave-it” terms and exploitative practices.

Adding to the challenge is the lack of long-term contracts with major supermarkets. Instead,

growers face weekly purchasing arrangements that pit them against one another. “This practice has gone on for decades, leaving growers with stagnant prices for 15 years while supermarket profts soar,” Burnett noted.

Analysis reveals the disparity: a major supermarket has delivered a 13% annual return to shareholders over 25 years, far outpacing the 7.3% return of superannuation funds.

“For growers, such returns are unthinkable,” Burnett stated. “Instead of sharing in the supermarkets’ billiondollar profts, farmers’ productivity gains have been absorbed, resulting

NSW SES Refects on Storm Response and Urges Preparedness

As the recent storms impacting the Northern Rivers, Clarence Valley, and Coffs Coast regions briefy subside, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is taking a moment to acknowledge the tireless efforts of its volunteers who have responded to over 159 storm-related incidents since Sunday.

The severe weather, which struck on Sunday through Wednesday evenings, left widespread damage across communities including Federal, Tweed Heads, Grafton, Coorabell, Richmond Hill, and Lismore. The majority of incidents involved fallen trees, blocked roads, and property damage, creating signifcant safety hazards.

Proactive Storm Preparation Urged

With clear weather providing a temporary reprieve, Superintendent Scott McLennan encourages residents to use this time to prepare for further storms expected today and next week.

“Check your gutters and drains for leaves, branches, or debris that could block water fow and exacerbate fooding during the next storm,” Superintendent McLennan advised.

in a generational wealth shift to senior executives and shareholders.”

The NFF Horticulture Council is calling on the government to prepare for decisive action following the ACCC inquiry’s fndings.

Burnett emphasized the need for reforms to ensure fairness for both growers and consumers, including capping further market share growth by supermarkets and limiting vertical and horizontal integration.

“These supermarkets are already big enough,” Burnett concluded. “It’s time for a fairer system that supports the sustainability of Australian agriculture.”

fash fooding even with light rain.

“We are still in a volatile weather pattern, and taking precautions now can signifcantly reduce risks to homes and properties,” he added.

Motorist Warnings

The SES also issued a stern warning to drivers about the dangers of navigating fooded roads.

“We’ve seen vehicles speeding through fooded causeways, which is not only dangerous but also risks becoming stranded or causing further damage to roads,” Superintendent McLennan said.

Motorists are urged to exercise caution and avoid fooded areas entirely to protect themselves and others.

Stay Prepared

Residents and visitors are reminded to:

• Clear gutters and drains of debris.

• Secure outdoor items that could become projectiles in strong winds.

• Monitor local weather updates and SES warnings.

• Avoid driving through foodwaters under any circumstances.

He stressed the importance of vigilance, noting that saturated catchments could lead to

The NSW SES remains on alert and ready to assist communities as the region navigates this challenging weather period. For emergency help in foods and storms, call 132 500.

Richmond Valley Council

Flood Risk Management Study and Plan

Richmond Valley Council has commenced the Richmond Valley Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan with fnancial and technical assistance provided by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water under the Floodplain Management Program. Community members are invited to discuss the Flood Risk Management Study and appropriate food mitigation/management opportunities on:

• Tuesday 3 December 2024, any time from 12pm-3pm at the Richmond Valley Council Committee Room, 10 Graham Place, Casino.

• Wednesday 4 December 2024, anytime from 9am-12pm at the Evans Head Library Meeting Room, 25 Woodburn St, Evans Head.

If you have questions about this consultation you may email consultants BMT at: richmondvalleyfood@ apac.bmt.org

Business Confdence Surges as Infation Declines, Hitting a Two-Year High

ROBERT HEYWARD

Roy Morgan Business Confdence rose sharply in October 2024, increasing by 12.4 points to 106.7. This marked the most positive sentiment in over two years, driven by falling infation and growing optimism about the Australian economy and business investment.

Key Drivers of the Increase in Confdence

The October rise in Business Confdence coincided with signifcant declines in infation:

• Monthly infation: Dropped to 2.1% in September, as announced in late October, down from 2.7% in August and 3.5% in July.

• Quarterly infation: Reached 2.8% for the September quarter, its lowest level since March 2021 and within the RBA’s target range of 2–3%.

This decline in infation has improved economic sentiment and heightened expectations of future interest rate cuts, aligning Australia with trends seen in central banks overseas.

Improved Sentiment Across Key Indicators

• Financial outlook:

o 46.3% of businesses (up 5.2 percentage points) expect to be better off fnancially in a year.

o Only 20.6% (down 4.4 points) anticipate being worse off.

• Economic outlook:

o 59% of businesses (up 6.8 points) expect “good times” economically over the next year, the highest level since February 2022.

o Confdence about the economy over the next fve years also rose, with 35.6% expecting “good times” (up 4.4 points).

• Investment sentiment:

o 42.9% (up 6.9 points) believe the

next 12 months is a “good time to invest” in growing their business.

o Only 35.2% (down 10.4 points) consider it a “bad time to invest,” the lowest level since June 2021.

State-by-State Analysis

Business Confdence improved across most states, with New South Wales leading at 111.6, followed by Queensland (105.7), Western Australia (105.2),

Victoria (104.4), and South Australia (102.4). Tasmania (89.0) was the only state with confdence below the neutral level of 100, refecting political instability within its Liberal-led government. Industry Performance The most confdent industries in September and October included:

1. Public Administration & Defence: 160.1 (+48.9 points year-on-year).

2. Education & Training: 127.3 (+6.7 points).

3. Finance & Insurance: 121.6 (+20.7 points).

4. Recreation & Personal: 112.0 (+16.9 points).

5. Professional, Scientifc & Technical Services: 111.0 (+11.9 points).

At the lower end, industries like Transport, Postal & Warehousing (72.6), Mining (78.3),

Source- Roy Morgan Business Single Source, Dec 2010-Oct 2024. Average monthly sample over the last 12 months = 1,591.

and Agriculture (85.7) reported subdued confdence, with the Transport sector consistently lagging throughout the year.

Commentary from Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine

“Roy Morgan Business Confdence surged in October, reaching its highest level since April 2022,” Ms. Levine said. “This increase was driven by improved optimism about the economy and growing sentiment that the next 12 months is a good time to invest in business growth. The rapid decline in infation, combined with expectations of potential interest rate cuts, has fostered greater positivity among businesses.”

Ms. Levine also noted strong performances across major states and industries but highlighted the need for targeted support in lagging sectors such as Transport, Postal & Warehousing, and Tasmania’s struggling economy.

Conclusion Roy Morgan Business Confdence is now just 4.5 points below its long-term average of 111.2, signalling a steady recovery in sentiment as infation declines and businesses prepare for a potentially favourable economic environment. For more detailed insights, the Roy Morgan Business Confdence Report is available via subscription.

Roy Morgan Monthly Business Confdence - Australia

Blakebrook Students Champion Conservation Efforts

ROBERT HEYWARD

Students from Blakebrook Public School have embraced the opportunity to learn about their local environment from experts who are deeply committed to its care.

Last week, the entire school embarked on an educational excursion to Lindendale, where they explored conservation practices in partnership with the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust (BCT) and Petaurus Education Group. The highlight of the day was a visit to Brockley, a private property near Alstonville that features a signifcant area of threatened big scrub rainforest. This remarkable site is protected in perpetuity through a conservation covenant with the NSW BCT, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.

The students were warmly welcomed by property owners Charlie and Jenny Handley. Charlie, who grew up on the property, shared his journey of actively

Avoid

restoring the big scrub rainforest since 1997.

“We had these remnant patches of rainforest that were never cleared, so we started to plant around them and connect them up. Now, with the covenant in place protecting the rainforest forever, we’re thrilled to use this place as an educational resource for younger generations,” Charlie said.

“I can see the impact we’ve made on some of these kids today. I think they’ll leave with the understanding that they, too, can make a meaningful difference in caring for nature.”

Alice McGrath, Education Team Leader at the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust,

highlighted the importance of hands-on experiences in fostering a connection with nature.

“Giving children the opportunity to witness conservation efforts frsthand helps them build an understanding and respect for the environment,” Ms. McGrath said.

“This generation has experienced frsthand the impact of natural disasters like foods and fres. Days like these are vital for inspiring hope and showing them the power of conservation.”

The day’s activities included a guided walk around the property, a water bug study to assess water health, and a lesson in building native bee hotels for

blue-banded bees. These engaging exercises tied into prior lessons delivered by Petaurus Education Group, aligning with the NSW school curriculum and reinforcing classroom learning.

Blakebrook students left the property inspired, equipped with knowledge, and empowered to contribute to conservation in their own communities.

To learn more about private land conservation with the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust, or to explore how the Conservation Champions program can engage your school, visit bct.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 992 688.

Williamson Demands NSW Government Support Following Major Power Outage In Lower Richmond Valley

Nationals MP for Clarence, Richie Williamson, is demanding the NSW Premier extend support to businesses and residents in Coraki, Broadwater, Evans Head, Woodburn, and surrounding areas following a major power outage caused by a thunderstorm on Sunday, November 10.

Mr Williamson explained that the storm caused a lightning strike that severely damaged a critical 66kV power pole on Riverbank Road at Pimlico, leading to a blackout lasting over 24 hours and impacting approximately 3,900 customers.

“Essential Energy crews worked around the clock to restore power, and I commend their dedication in quickly addressing the damage and restoring electricity,”

Mr Williamson said.

“While Essential Energy has done an incredible job, this unplanned outage has

hit local businesses hard, with many losing valuable trading days and stock—a setback they can ill afford as they continue recovering from the 2022 foods.”

In addition to writing to the Premier, Mr Williamson today tabled a Notice of Motion in the NSW Parliament formally calling on the government to provide fnancial assistance for the affected residents and businesses, similar to the recent support provided to those impacted by the Broken Hill outage.

“This situation is very similar to the outage in Broken Hill, and while the duration here was thankfully shorter, the impact on our local economy is signifcant,” Mr Williamson said.

“I urge the Premier to recognise the unique challenges facing these regional communities in my electorate and to provide the targeted assistance needed to help them get back on track.”

Handling Bats to Protect Yourself from Lyssavirus

ROBERT HEYWARD

Residents of Northern NSW are being urged to avoid handling or touching fying foxes and microbats to protect themselves against serious infections, including the Australian bat lyssavirus, which poses a signifcant health risk to humans.

What is Australian Bat Lyssavirus?

Australian bat lyssavirus can only be transmitted to humans through contact with the saliva of an infected fying fox or microbat.

Transmission occurs when saliva enters through:

• An open wound

• The eyes or mouth

Increased Risk in Spring and Summer

Robin Auld, Acting Director of North Coast Population and Public Health, cautioned residents to stay vigilant during spring and summer when fying foxes and microbats are most active.

“We often see an increase in people being scratched by bats during late spring,” Mr. Auld said. “If you encounter an injured or distressed bat, do not attempt to handle it yourself.”

What to Do if You’re Bitten or Scratched

If you are bitten or scratched by a fying fox or microbat:

1. Wash the wound immediately and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.

2. Apply an antisetic with antiviral properties.

3. Seek urgent medical attention to determine your risk and, if necessary, begin rabies

post-exposure treatment. Early treatment is critical, as there is no effective treatment once symptoms of lyssavirus appear, and the disease is almost always fatal. Symptoms of Lyssavirus

Initial symptoms are fu-like and may include:

• Headache

• Fever

• Fatigue

The illness progresses rapidly to:

• Paralysis

• Delirium

• Convulsions

• Death

What to Do if You See a Bat

• Injured or distressed bats: Contact wildlife rescue organizations such as:

o WIRES: 1300 094

737

• Dead bats in public areas: Notify your local council for proper disposal.

Protecting Yourself

from Lyssavirus Overseas

Lyssaviruses, including rabies, are also present in some of Australia’s closest neighbours like Bali and Thailand. To protect yourself when traveling:

• Consult your doctor at least 1 month before departure about pretravel rabies vaccination.

• Avoid all contact with wild and domestic animals.

For More Information

• Contact North Coast Population and Public Health at 1300 066 055.

• Visit the NSW Health website for additional resources.

By staying vigilant and taking these precautions, you can help protect yourself and others from this serious health threat.

NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust Senior Project Offcer, Wendy Neilan, and Petaurus Education Group

Project Offcer Evie Frawley work with year 6 students on water bug identifcation. Credit: Mindy Greenwood/

NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust

“

Leemo has views on just about anything”

SPEAKING with no THINKING.. Hmmm?

‘Leemo, I want you here NOW..gottit? I have a question for you that won’t wait.’ ( e old woman screech was ‘Mum Jane’.) It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ back. I steeled my psyche with my manly feline persona, & silkily slithered in (Rosary Beads in paw) to confront whatever was ahead of me from the silly old woman this time? Crikey, the VOICE started pronto. ‘Leemo, why did you assume the identity of a ‘thug-cat-bully’ and try to maul & scratch gentle ‘Dalmatian like’ oppy eared cross-eyed puppy called ‘Zenny’; you chased him all the way home 3 houses up whilst howling like a Banshee; he yelped & cried due to your ‘hot on his heels’ claws out pursuit?

OMG! Leemo, ‘Zenny’ simply came to our yard to say gidday, as he has done before with your AOK? So, please explain your behaviour. I’m embarrassed.’ Hmmm?

Pondering & deep thoughts urgently needed before I reply. Much later: ‘OK Mum, ‘YOU’ have a sign on the screen door of our house that says ‘ anks for calling but if my YELLOW door is closed, PLEASE DON’T DISTURB.’ So, in truth, I was having a ni y kitty heavenly dream and simply did NOT, like you, wish to be disturbed either. SO..when cross eyed ‘Zenny’ puppy gambolled in to our yard I did what YOU do! I indicated with a fur-raise, DO NOT DISTURB; but he just licked me anyhow. Aaargh! In the end, to convince him I was serious, I had to chase him home. GOTTIT?’

She spluttered noisily but a er a cup of tea calmed down. ‘Well, Leems, I respect you’ve made a point BUT you’ve missed the reality of this scenario. Firstly, ‘I’ do not sleep in our front yard. If I DID, I expect anyone calling in might be a tri e alarmed and call 000. YOU have many places to sleep; I suggest you nd another spot in future & you won’t be bothered. AND, Leems, you CAN respond in a nicer way to unexpected visitors arriving, be they puppies, kitties, bees, birdies, cows, snakes or humans. It’s called ‘Polite Tolerance’ Leems; go look it up, & we’ll talk.’ Ooooh, she is sooo vexatious. I slunk o for input from my buddies. ‘Pascalie’ reckons Mum Jane is a mega polite tolerant human ‘cos she puts up with YOU Leems.’ (‘Pascalie’ got a swi bi from meesie & told to shut-up.) ‘Brutus’ reckons Mum is an intolerant old woman and said ‘I’ deserve a bravery medal for living with HER! Brutus got a high-5!! Hmmm! is is NOT helping. I’ll address her with my renowned directness. ‘Right Mum, YOU tell me what I COULD have done when ‘Zenny’ puppy interrupted my reverie on the grass?’ I noted her confused visage. She spoke. ‘Hmmm, errr, ummm, well, I suggest Leems, you could have said this: ‘Purrsie & a hearty welcome you cross-eyed oppy eared huge puppy. Would you like a cup of tea with scones, jam & cream (CWA recipe) or would you, per chance, like to LICK my ears & annoy me?’ Good Lord. I was totally taken aback by her ridiculous advice. I have said before, Mum can talk a load of codswallop. ‘Mum, had I spoken those dumb words to ‘Zenny’ he probably would have run o in shock anyhow & I would not have had to chase him. So there!!’ Oooh, she glared angrily. Mum & myself are kinda not agreeing on stu right now but not to worry. All it takes is for me to stare at her adoringly, look pathetic, purr & suck-up a bit & all is back to normal. Nitey with smuggie purrsies. Leemo.

Adopt a Family

Free Online Workshop for Learner Driver Supervisors: Helping Teach the Teachers

guardians—whether they feel prepared for the task or not.

Transport for NSW is hosting a free online workshop designed to support parents and supervisors in their crucial role of teaching young drivers how to navigate our roads safely.

Teaching a learner driver is a signifcant responsibility, often shouldered by parents or

“Being a skilled driver and becoming a good teacher for a new driver are two very different challenges,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson explained.

“For many of us, it might have been decades since we last reviewed the road rules. While we know from

experience how to drive safely—like how far to park from a corner or maintain a safe following distance—articulating these concepts clearly for a learner can be tricky.

“However, teaching someone to drive can also be one of the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences for a parent or guardian, and this workshop is designed to help make the journey

a positive one for both parties.”

The workshop will take place online from 6pm to 7:30pm on Thursday, 14 November.

It will cover essential topics, including:

• Up-to-date driving rules for L- and P-platers,

• The benefts of supervised driving for learners,

• Practical advice on

using the learner driver log book,

• Tips on planning practice sessions,

• Handling challenging situations during lessons, and

• Giving constructive feedback to learners.

“The goal is to ensure that learning to drive is a safe, productive, and positive experience for both the learner and their supervisor,” the spokesperson added. Parents and supervisors interested in attending can book their spot at the free online workshop by visiting https://www. trybooking.com/ CSYUS.

For more resources and information about young and learner drivers, visit the Transport for NSW website.

JEFF GIBBS

Samantha’s Book

‘Young & Connected’ at Byron Bay Library: Free Workshop on Slow Fashion

Redemption, danger and new beginnings

Title: Dusk

Author: Robbie Arnott

Price: $32.95

Publisher: Pan MacMillan

By Samantha Elley

A puma is killing the sheep and when the locals go out to hunt it down, they are being killed too.

They call the animal Dusk and it attracts bounty hunters from far afeld, including twins Iris and Floyd. The brother and sister are a unique pair, having been brought up in the worst of circumstances with two parents who lived life on the road, scamming and stealing to survive.

Freed from their parental bonds by a ‘twist of fate’, Floyd and Iris make their own way in the world and as they are out of money with no work or friends, they fnd the reward for catching Dusk too

Byron Bay Library is excited to announce the latest addition to its Young & Connected Program: a free workshop titled ‘Slow Fashion in the Digital World’, presented by Byron Shire local and slow fashion advocate, Eve Constantinos.

attractive to ignore. They head to the highlands where Dusk is lurking.

The reader is taken on the journey where the lives of the twins unfold and an understanding of how they came to be where they are becomes clearer.

All revealed with the backdrop of the breathtaking highlands and the ever present danger that lurks in the shape of a large puma, it is easy to become invested in their lives.

Robbie Arnott hails from Hobart, Tasmania where he lives with his wife and daughter. His previous books include Limberlost, The Rain Heron and Flames. He has twice won The Age Book of the Year, has been awarded the Voss Literary Prize and named the Sydney Morning Heral Best Young Novelist. He has been shortlisted for the Miles Franklin Literary Award twice, as well as the Dylan Thomas Prize.

You can order your copy of Dusk from booktopia.com.au

Eve’s journey into sustainable fashion began with a passion for style and environmental consciousness. After returning from a holiday with an empty wallet and big dreams, she started her second-hand clothing business from humble garage sales. It quickly grew into a thriving venture with local markets, event stalls, and online sales.

“From receiving donation bags to collaborating with others to sell their clothes, I realized the potential of sustainable fashion. I’ve always loved using style as a form of self-expression, and I’ve

been able to grow my business using the digital skills I’m learning while studying Digital Media & Communications at Southern Cross University,” Eve shared.

Eve’s unique approach includes using videography and social media to showcase second-hand clothing collections, giving preloved items a second chance while promoting environmentally friendly practices.

“Shopping sustainably is more important than ever. Fast fashion has a huge environmental impact, and I wanted to create a business that not only offers unique style options but also champions sustainability,” she said.

“Selling second-hand clothes is a rewarding process. It’s fun, connects you with interesting people, and can even generate income. I’m thrilled to share what I’ve learned with young people to help them embrace sustainable fashion

and build successful businesses.”

What the Workshop Covers

The Slow Fashion in the Digital World workshop will include:

• How and where to start a second-hand clothing business (local markets and online platforms).

• Tips for graphic design, social media content creation, photography, and videography.

• Pricing items and strategies to stand out in the marketplace.

• A Q&A session and a clothing swap for hands-on engagement.

Why It Matters

Byron Area Librarian

Stacey Shepherd highlighted the importance of workshops like this for empowering young people.

“Byron Library is delighted to support our young community through creative and educational opportunities. Workshops like Eve’s slow fashion event provide a space for

peer-to-peer learning, networking, and knowledge sharing,” Stacey said.

“This workshop aligns with our commitment to supporting local visions and creating opportunities for young people to explore ideas, expand their knowledge, and make meaningful connections.”

Event Details

• Workshop Title: Slow Fashion in the Digital World

• Date & Time: Thursday, 28th November, 3:30 PM –5:30 PM

• Location: Byron Bay Library

• Age Group: 14–24 years

• Cost: Free

• How to Book: Visit www.rtrl.nsw.gov.au or call 6685 8540

Don’t miss this chance to learn from an inspiring local entrepreneur, gain insights into sustainable fashion, and participate in a fun clothing swap. Reserve your spot today!

ROBERT HEYWARD

Workshop Presenter Eve Constantinos Photo by Davide Balduzzi

Tahillia back to doing what she does best

ONE of Australia’s most successful practitioners in the psychic world, ‘Tahilllia’ is back doing what she does best after more than decade off.

Tahillia’s innate abilities to ‘read’ people saw her at the forefront of mediumship both here in Australia and overseas for many, many years, her prolific presence and accuracy saw her readings published national magazines like Girlfriend and Total Sport while prime time TV couldn’t get enough of her.

A regular on current affair program Today Tonight, her outcomes with live audiences were so credible they declared her the best in the world, something Tahillia recalls like it was yesterday.

“I’d travel down to do an appearance with other psychics. At first it felt a bit strange, a bit gimmicky, because I thought they were testing me like a guinea pig but it was the only way you could be taken seriously by people and other clairvoyants. I remember I would be reading audiences until 2 in the morning,” she said.

Tahillia said the TV producers were impressed with her ability because she operated on a ‘theta’ level while the other psychics

on the program were alpha readers.

“They used to call me the clairvoyant for clairvoyants. A lot Yogis in India, they do all sorts of things to reach ‘theta’ level, follow special diets, but I do it spontaneously, it’s like a meditative, dream-like state when it happening.”

Tahillia’s talent has seen her do readings for people from all walks of life, from A-list celebrities to sports stars and politicians.

After prompting she rattled off a few names: Keanu Reeves, Ewan McGregor, Andie MacDowell, rockstars Mick Jagger and then girlfriend Jerry Hall, Mariah Carey, Lisa Marie Presley and sportstars including Greg Norman, Susie O’Neill, Cathy Freeman, and John Eales.

“I’ve read for a lot of famous people, touched on what was happening in their lives at the time and if I picked up a problem it would end up being sorted out. You pick up things in their energy.”

Tahillia said she doesn’t have work face-to-face to do this, she has done readings over the phone or from a photograph “and just go from there.”

Her special sense has also been called upon to help with police cases which

are general highly sensitive in nature so discretion is always a priority while working in this field.

“Journalists working on stories referred to me as ‘fire hose’ when it came to my abilities. I’m not just a clairvoyant, I’m a specialist right across the psychic field. I just think, tune in and feel and hear things.”

While Tahillia is hard to define as a practitioner, her specialities include mediumship, past lives, clairvoyance, dream analysis, and she is the only person in the world that does (readings) based on children’s names and what they mean about that individual as they grow older. She also teaches meditation techniques to kids and adults.

What she doesn’t do is read cards (tarot).

“Lots of people look to card readings but I don’t do that. I couldn’t read one of those if my life depended on it. If anything they would probably confuse me more. And I don’t read off crystal balls. I use my own ability.”

That ability is something Tahillia said she has always had. It’s not something she learned by doing a course or following some kind of formula.

“I was like this when I was a little girl. So you

can imagine in the 1960s, I would just mutter away and say things and do that at a child level. I’d go off to church and tell kids where they lost their animals or their toys. I had a lot of tests as a kid because they couldn’t understand where it was coming from. As a person that can feel a bit horrible, people don’t realise that what they’re attacking is your nature.”

Tahlia was in the middle of remerging on the psychic stage when the COVID-19 pandemic hit “I was ready to a 2000 audience in Sydney and 100,000 on the internet in New York City” and while that did put the brakes on for a while she is getting closer to catching up with all the technological advances that have occurred since taking time out.

“It used to be all faxes and emails before I went travelling and took a break but I felt ready to go back into my profession and started working again about eight months ago. I’m back doing what I do best, helping people move on with all kinds of things in their lives.”

Tahillia said she has a website set to be launched next month, YouTube videos being made, and a Facebook community to build. “I’m even on Twitter

now and keen to get that blue tick.”

Based here on the North Coast of NSW, Tahillia said she was also planning to do live shows “at some stage” in the region, and will be touring overseas once international borders are open again but would be working with worldwide audiences on the internet in the meantime.

“I’ve never had as much to do with internet as I do now.”

While Tahillia knows she has a special ability, she recognises it like she would any other talent.

“We’re all gifted in certain areas. You could be gifted in writing or playing music. I’m gifted in my

ability but not everybody gets to that point. You can be good at art but you’re not Michelangelo. Some people are just particularly good at what they do.”

Tahillia said that’s the difference between having someone that’s a total professional to somebody who’s just a “kick-about”.

“I’m really against these courses that think they can teach people to read-off a photograph in 10 minutes or go and do deep readings at markets. You can be dealing with people’s tragedies and emotions, there’s a responsibility to doing this sort of thing. I was born with this ability so I don’t know anything different.”

“YOU don’t read Shakespeare,” I remember once hearing, “he reads you.” And while this pithy assessment of the great bard’s output remains so very true, it also aptly fits the bill of a little-known Spanish wordsmith called Baltasar Gracian, who actually lived around the same time as Shakespeare.

I’m not sure what it was about this period in history (that being the cusp of the 1600s) that gave rise to minds that seemed to fathom or reflect such a deep understanding of the human condition.

Gracian was a Jesuit priest who was forever getting into trouble with his ‘superiors’ for penning things that were so brutally honest that they offended sensibilities without even trying. It is little wonder he ended his days in exile, having said too many things that simply cut too close to the bone. None other than Friedrich Nitzsche once confessed, when referring to The Art of Worldly Wisdom (Gracian’s most celebrated work) that “Europe has never produced anything finer or more complicated in matters of moral subtlety.” Being little more than a book containing 300 sayings, Gracian’s vision of worldly wisdom is nothing short of something very sublime. It reads like a stampeding patchworkcross between Machiavelli, Ambrose Bierce and Voltaire.

Akin to Nietzsche’s noted observation, “The philosopher knows not where to stand if not on the extended wings of all ages,” Gracian takes flight as if he were Icarus, only with firmly

Marine Rescue NSW Volunteers Complete Record-Breaking October

fixed wings: there is simply no chance of him ever plummeting from the sky, regardless of how close he gets to the sun. His writings ‘hold up’ in such a way you’d swear they were penned by someone earlier this year and not someone from over four centuries ago.

The book itself has assumed the status of an oracle, such is its held esteem in learned circles. Oracles being the age-old medium in which prophecies, albeit timely advice were given, if not cryptically transferred. The way Gracian unpacks a thought and somehow meanders through such expansive philosophical terrain, with such few words is enough to warrant a read, whether or not you are looking for answers to life’s myriad questions.

A copy of Gracian’s Worldly Wisdom should be given to us all at some stage; not one page contains something (much of which has already entered the realm of popular adage) that doesn’t leap into your awareness like a tailored morsel of pure insight and guidance. Because being exposed to someone who thinks clearly, or dare I say wisely, is a treat as rare and invigorating today as it was in Gracian’s own time.

Fittingly, he was to say, “What a sad age this is, when virtue is rare and malice is common. The prudent must live as best they can, though not as they would like. May they prefer what luck granted them to what it withheld!... This life is a zero: by itself it is nothing. Add the heavens, and it is much.

Our lives fold and unfold like theatre, so be careful to end well.”

ROBERT HEYWARD

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers achieved a new milestone in October 2024, completing 388 search and rescue missions, including 94 emergency responses, making it their busiest October on record. This surpasses the previous high of 384 missions set in October 2023.

Volunteers Save Lives Across the State

Marine Rescue

NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell praised the tireless efforts of volunteers who safely returned 875 people to shore during a demanding month.

“The demand for assistance was high and is expected to remain so as we head into summer,” Commissioner Barrell said.

“Mechanical failures, which accounted for almost half the incidents, are preventable. Boaters should ensure their

vessels are in good working order before heading out.”

Record Demand in Northern Rivers and Hunter Central Coast

Two regions experienced their busiest October ever:

• Northern Rivers: Crews completed 32 missions, including 9 emergency responses, rescuing 76 people. Key locations included:

o Ballina (11 missions)

o Point Danger (10 missions)

o Iluka Yamba (8 missions)

• Hunter Central Coast: Volunteers handled 127 missions, including 26 emergency responses, rescuing 270 people. Key locations included:

o Lake Macquarie (64 missions)

o Port Stephens (19 missions)

o Central Coast (18 missions)

October Missions

Across Other Regions

• Greater Sydney: 155 missions, including 24

emergency responses, rescuing 380 people.

o Key locations: Sydney State Communications Centre (45), Botany Port Hacking (40), Port Jackson (19).

• Illawarra: 35 missions, including 17 emergency responses, rescuing 57 people.

o Key locations: Port Kembla (12), Jervis Bay (9).

• Mid North Coast: 23 missions, including 6 emergency responses, rescuing 54 people.

o Key locations: Port Macquarie (12), Forster Tuncurry (4).

• Monaro: 16 missions, including 12 emergency responses, rescuing 38 people.

o Key locations: Batemans Bay (7), Eden (3).

Advanced Tools and Technology Enhance Safety

Marine Rescue NSW handled 17,094 radio calls in October and tracked almost 23,500 people on Logged On

vessels. Commissioner Barrell highlighted the importance of the Marine Rescue NSW app, a free tool recognized internationally for innovation in maritime safety.

“Logging On provides vital trip details, enabling us to monitor boater safety and initiate searches if necessary. The app has become a cornerstone of our rescue efforts,” Commissioner Barrell said.

Volunteer Dedication at the Core of Marine Rescue NSW Marine Rescue NSW, a volunteerbased not-for-proft organization, continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to protecting boaters and supporting communities. Boaters are encouraged to download the Marine Rescue NSW app and ensure their vessels are in top condition to avoid preventable incidents.

For more information, visit Marine Rescue NSW.

Gracian’s art of worldly wisdom… by Nigel Dawe

Marine Rescue Terrigal rescue six people after their outrigger capsized on October 26

Volunteers at Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet assist a boater on October 28

Marine Rescue NSW Oct 24 stats crew member provides update on distressed vessel at Jervis Bay

Free Dental Check-Ups Now Available to More Children Across NSW

IAN ROGERS

The Primary School

Mobile Dental Program has reached an exciting milestone, marking its 1,000th public school visit this week. This achievement comes after the Minns Labor Government expanded the program to provide free dental check-ups to even more children across New South Wales. Since its launch in 2019, the initiative has offered free dental

care to 300,000 public school students, helping to address dental health needs and promote good oral hygiene among young children. The program has grown signifcantly, with three additional Local Health Districts (LHDs)—Far West, Northern NSW, and Illawarra Shoalhaven—joining in 2023. These new districts have collectively visited 38 schools, providing nearly 2,400 children with free dental check-

ups in the past year. Currently, the mobile dental clinics operate across 11 Local Health Districts, delivering essential services directly to primary schools.

Services Provided by the Mobile Dental Clinics

The mobile dental clinics offer a range of on-site services, including:

• Dental check-ups

• Cleans and X-rays

• Preventive treatments

• Education on oral

hygiene

These services address both immediate dental concerns and long-term oral health education, ensuring children learn the skills they need to maintain their dental health. If further treatment is required, public dental service staff reach out to parents and carers to coordinate follow-up care, either at the school or a local dental clinic.

Accessible Dental Care for All Children Under 18

In addition to the Primary School Mobile Dental Program, all children under the age of 18 can access free dental care at NSW Health public dental clinics.

This broader initiative refects the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to providing essential healthcare services to families across the state, particularly during challenging times.

This program aligns with the government’s vision to build a better NSW, ensuring every child has access to quality healthcare and education—key pillars

of a healthy, thriving community.

Comments from Leaders and Participants

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue Car:

“It is fantastic to see that the dental van has made 1,000 visits to public schools across NSW, offering free check-ups to so many public-school students.”

“Providing free dental care is a win-win for parents, particularly in a cost-of-living crisis.”

“The dental van is a fantastic program that has given thousands of students access to free dental care and helped public school students to learn healthy habits from an early age.”

Minister for Health, Ryan Park:

“Oral health care is a crucial part of being and staying healthy, and these mobile dental clinics make it easier for families to receive essential check-ups.”

“Expanding this program to more parts of NSW provides more children with free, school-based dental care,

helping families who don’t have easy access to private dental care.”

“This is an important and exciting milestone to celebrate, and I want to thank everyone who has been a part of the 1,000 school visits and offered free dental care to more than 300,000 children.”

Michelle Wells, Principal, Farmborough Road Public School:

“We were thrilled to have the NSW Dental Vans visit our school.”

“For our students, it’s so important to get their teeth checked and learn about how to best look after their gorgeous smiles. For our parents, it was something they could tick off their list without worry, knowing their child’s dental health had been checked at school.”

“This is an excellent initiative that makes a genuine difference in the lives of our students and their families.”

For more information about the program or to fnd out how your child can access free dental care, visit: health.nsw.gov.au/ oralhealth.

In an age where convenience and quality are increasingly converging, the Bartesian Cocktail Maker is redefning the at-home cocktail experience, offering a solution for both casual sippers and seasoned cocktail enthusiasts alike. Blending technology with mixology, the Bartesian brings the precision and sophistication of a professional bartender right to your countertop, making it possible to enjoy high-quality cocktails in the comfort of home with minimal effort.

Bartesian: The Ultimate in Cocktail Convenience

LIAM JENNINGS

Sony has offcially launched the PlayStation 5 Pro, a highly anticipated upgrade to its popular PS5 console, taking gaming to a new level of performance and visual fdelity. The PS5 Pro hit the shelves on November 7, 2024, priced at $1,199. The new console’s advanced hardware and features are targeted at serious gamers looking for an ultra-immersive experience.

High-Powered Hardware for NextGen Gaming

One of the key upgrades in the PS5 Pro is its enhanced GPU, boasting 67% more Compute Units than the standard PS5 and 28% faster memory. This improvement allows the console to render games up to 45% faster, offering smoother gameplay and shorter load times. Additionally, Sony has upgraded the

Much like a singleserve coffee machine, the Bartesian Cocktail Maker uses pre-mixed cocktail capsules along with separate reservoirs for spirits, allowing users to make over 60 different cocktails in under 30 seconds.

From classic drinks like margaritas, whiskey sours, and cosmopolitans to more contemporary options such as espresso martinis and rum swizzles, the Bartesian offers an expansive selection designed to satisfy a wide range of tastes. Users simply fll designated reservoirs with their preferred spirits, insert a capsule, choose a strength setting, and press ‘Mix’ to receive a fresh, made-toorder drink.

Quality and Customisation at Your Fingertips

One of the standout features of the Bartesian is its focus on customization. With settings that allow for different strength levels—ranging from mocktails to strong

drinks—it caters to individual preferences with precision. The capsule’s liquid ingredients are professionally crafted, designed to pair with the user’s chosen spirits. This makes it possible for anyone to enjoy barlevel cocktails without the need for extensive equipment or mixology expertise.

Bartesian currently offers two models: the original Premium Cocktail Maker, designed with four glass spirit reservoirs for those who appreciate variety, and the more compact Bartesian Duet, ideal for those with limited counter space or a preference for specifc cocktails. Each model offers the same easy-to-use interface and versatility but caters to different user needs.

Hygiene and Maintenance Made Simple

Hygiene is often a concern with machines that handle multiple ingredients, but Bartesian has addressed this with

an automatic selfcleaning feature. After each use, the machine initiates a brief cleaning cycle, ensuring that favours remain distinct from one cocktail to the next. This feature prevents unwanted crosscontamination, keeping each drink’s taste fresh and true to its original profle.

Is the Bartesian Worth the Investment?

Priced at around $649, depending on the model, the Bartesian represents a substantial investment for those who regularly enjoy cocktails at home. While the machine itself is durable and effcient, the cost of cocktail capsules—generally around $34 for an 8-pack—may be a consideration for some. For others, the convenience and quality offered by the Bartesian make it a worthwhile addition to their kitchen or home bar. The selection of capsules is continually expanding, with Bartesian regularly introducing new favours to keep things exciting.

A Glimpse into the Future of Home Mixology

With the Bartesian Cocktail Maker, consumers are witnessing a new phase of tech-driven home dining and entertaining. As demand grows for gadgets that streamline sophisticated culinary and beverage experiences, the Bartesian is uniquely positioned to satisfy the needs of modern consumers who want luxury with ease. Its blend of intuitive design, customizable options, and high-quality output is setting a new standard for at-home bartending.

Final thoughts In a world where time is precious and experiences are cherished, the Bartesian Cocktail Maker has tapped into a market that craves both. For tech lovers, cocktail fans, and everyone in between, the Bartesian may just be the ideal companion for turning an ordinary evening into a moment of indulgence.

ray tracing capabilities, allowing the PS5 Pro to produce more dynamic light effects at double or triple the original PS5’s speed. For players, this means more realistic refections, shadows, and textures.

Sony also introduced PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR), an AI-driven upscaling technology that brings more detail and clarity

to game visuals without sacrifcing performance. This feature ensures sharper images, elevating the visual experience even for high-defnition games, and giving players a near-8K gaming experience on compatible displays.

Enhanced Storage and Connectivity

The PS5 Pro doubles the storage of the standard PS5, featuring

a 2TB SSD. This allows for more game downloads and media storage, a signifcant beneft as games continue to grow in size. Connectivity is also top-notch, with support for Wi-Fi 7, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and compatibility with 8K gaming setups.

One notable design choice is that the PS5 Pro does not include a built-in disc drive.

However, players who prefer physical media can purchase an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive separately. The console remains compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense controllers, and new PlayStation audio options.

Game Enhancements for Immersive Play

Sony is labelling games optimized for this

new console as “PS5 Pro Enhanced.” Titles like “Marvel’s SpiderMan 2,” “Horizon Forbidden West,” and “Gran Turismo 7” are receiving updates to take advantage of the PS5 Pro’s added power. Additionally, the PS5 Pro’s Game Boost feature offers improved performance for thousands of backwardcompatible PS4 games, making it a versatile console for both new and existing titles.

A New Standard for Console Gaming

The PlayStation 5 Pro is setting a new benchmark in the world of gaming, merging top-tier performance with sophisticated design. While the higher price point and separate disc drive may be a consideration for some, the PS5 Pro is likely to appeal to players who seek the best in gaming technology, ready for the demands of future releases and highdefnition gameplay.

LIAM JENNINGS

Todays Australia, the performance landscape has shifted from the era of sports sedans to tough trucks, and the 2025 Isuzu D-MAX Blade is the latest to join the fray.

Developed as part of a factory-approved local program by Walkinshaw Automotive, the Blade brings a fresh take on Isuzu’s trusted platform.

But with a $76,990 drive-away price tag and fagship status, does it live up to the expectations?

Pricing and Competitors

The D-MAX Blade is priced to compete with premium tough trucks, such as:

• Ford Ranger Tremor: $69,690 + ORCs

• Toyota HiLux GR Sport: $74,310 + ORCs

• Nissan Navara Pro-4X Warrior: $68,765 + ORCs

Compared to Isuzu’s lineup, the Blade is $9,000 more than the X-Terrain and $4,000 more than the LS-U+ donor car once on-road costs are factored in. While Isuzu Ute Australia labels the price as introductory, it hasn’t provided a timeframe for the offer.

Design and Features

Exterior Enhancements

The Blade stands out with a bold redesign, featuring:

• A grille with an integrated 112W light bar.

• Fender fares, tubular side steps, and a sports bar.

• A distinctive sticker kit for added fair.

Mechanical Upgrades Walkinshaw’s upgrades include:

• 35mm Monroe twin-tube dampers for a smoother ride.

• 17-inch Goodyear all-terrain tyres for improved traction.

• 29mm lift kit, providing a modest 4mm clearance increase due to a thicker bash plate. While these changes refne its off-road abilities, the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine and six-speed automatic transmission remain untouched.

Interior and Technology

The Blade inherits the LS-U+’s comprehensive equipment list, including:

• A 9.0-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

• Dual-zone climate control and a powered driver’s seat.

• Tyre pressure

GMC Yukon Denali 2025: Australian Pricing and Specifcations

The GMC Yukon Denali is set to make its Australian debut in mid-2025, with orders now open. Priced from $169,990 before on-road costs, the Yukon Denali marks GMC’s entry into the local large SUV market, distributed through GMSV.

Positioned as a premium eight-seat SUV, the Yukon Denali competes with the likes of the Nissan Patrol, Lexus LX, and BMW X7. GMSV highlights the Denali as the only eight-seat SUV in

Australia featuring a V8 engine, though the Nissan Patrol Ti also offers this combination.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Yukon Denali is powered by a 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8, generating 313kW of power and 624Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and features GMC’s Dynamic Fuel Management for improved effciency via cylinder deactivation.

The part-time fourwheel-drive system supports towing “in excess of 3500kg,” though exact fgures are not confrmed. With a 91-litre fuel tank, the Denali is tailored for long-distance capability.

High-End Features and Specifcations

The Yukon Denali arrives in high-spec trim, offering luxury and advanced technology as standard:

• 16.9-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android

monitoring, autonomous emergency braking, and a tub liner.

However, due to the modifcations, the Blade doesn’t retain the LSU+’s fve-star ANCAP rating.

Performance and Capability

Off-Roading Building on the D-MAX’s established off-road credentials –such as a ladder-frame chassis, rear diff lock, and low-range gearing

– the Blade’s upgrades deliver:

• Better grip from all-terrain tyres.

• Improved ride comfort from Walkinshaw’s tuned dampers.

Though the 4mm clearance gain is negligible, the Blade performs adeptly on challenging terrain, handling climbs and

Auto

• 11-inch digital instrument cluster and 15-inch head-up display

• 14-speaker Bose sound system

• Heated and ventilated front seats, heated leather steering wheel

• Panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and wireless phone charging

• LED headlights, DRLs, and tail lights

• 24-inch alloy wheels

Comprehensive Safety Package

Although not ANCAPtested, the Yukon Denali includes advanced safety features:

descents with ease.

Practicality

The Blade retains the D-MAX’s:

• 3,500kg braked towing capacity, ideal for work and recreation.

• A healthy 896kg payload, ensuring it’s still practical for heavyduty use.

Ownership and Support

As a factory-approved product, the Blade enjoys the same after-sales benefts as the D-MAX lineup:

• Six-year/150,000km warranty, covering Walkinshaw’s additions.

• Seven years roadside assistance.

• Capped-price servicing at $449 per service (fve years or 15,000km intervals).

Verdict: Does It Deliver?

The 2025 Isuzu D-MAX Blade builds on Isuzu’s

reputation for reliability with enhancements that cater to off-road enthusiasts and styleconscious buyers. While it lacks dramatic mechanical changes, the tweaks to suspension and tyres, combined with a rugged design, make it a standout in its segment. However, the premium price may deter those expecting signifcant performance upgrades. For buyers who value local engineering, bold aesthetics, and proven off-road capabilities, the Blade is a solid choice. But for others, the standard D-MAX models may still hold strong appeal.

In essence, the D-MAX Blade blends style, practicality, and local fair, making it a worthy contender in the tough truck market.

Adaptive cruise control, forward collision alert, and front/rear park assist

• 360-degree camera, lane change alert with blind spot monitoring

• Trailer sway control, rear cross-traffc alert, and pedestrian detection

Pricing and Availability

The GMC Yukon Denali is available in a single grade, priced from $169,990 before on-road costs. First deliveries are expected in the second quarter of 2025.

JEFF GIBBS

Bitcoin Ascends Towards $100,000 Amid Broader Cryptocurrency Market Rally

favourable stance on digital currencies.

During his campaign,

Bitcoin is rapidly approaching the symbolic $100,000 mark, as its price surged 6.8% in the past 24 hours to $87,600, igniting optimism among investors and enthusiasts.

Other cryptocurrencies also posted gains: Ethereum rose 3.3%, Avalanche climbed 8.4%, Dogecoin soared 35.1%, Shiba Inu added 2.5%, BNB increased 1.1%, and XRP jumped 9.9%.

While Donald Trump’s presidential election victory is a significant catalyst, broader trends are the primary forces driving this rally, including Bitcoin’s post-halving dynamics and favourable macroeconomic conditions.

Trump’s Election: A Short-Term Catalyst Trump’s win has captured headlines in the crypto world due to his comparatively

Other

Trump became the first presidential candidate to accept cryptocurrency donations and even hinted at creating a federal Bitcoin reserve.

High-profile crypto figures, including the Winklevoss twins and Kraken co-founder Jesse Powell, contributed substantial funds to his campaign.

Despite this, experts see Trump’s victory as a short-term catalyst.

According to BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes, Trump’s presidency might accelerate Bitcoin’s ascent past $100,000, especially given the historical strength of Bitcoin in October and November following halving years. However,

CHOICE Shonky Awards 2024: Calling Out the Worst in Products and Practices

IAN ROGERS

The CHOICE Shonky Awards, now in their 19th year, continue to spotlight the most misleading, disappointing, and outright shonky products and business practices in Australia. This year’s awards shine a light on five standout offenders that failed to deliver on their promises—or fairness.

The 2024 CHOICE Shonky Award Winners

1. Meta – Failing to Protect Aussies from Scams: With social media scam losses hitting a record $95 million in 2023, Meta earned its spot by not

Hayes and others argue that Bitcoin’s long-term trajectory is shaped by fundamental drivers rather than political developments.

Broader Factors

Driving Bitcoin’s Rally

The current Bitcoin rally reflects pent-up demand from its April halving, a programmed reduction in mining rewards that historically precedes significant price increases. Jesse Myers, co-founder of Onramp Bitcoin, noted, “The incoming Bitcoinfriendly administration has provided a catalyst, but the real story is the post-halving bubble.”

Bitcoin’s appeal as a hedge against inflation and currency debasement

also remains a critical factor. Analysts argue that mounting national debt and inflationary spending could bolster Bitcoin’s position as a store of value.

Hayes highlights the inevitability of increased monetary easing, regardless of political leadership, as a reason for Bitcoin’s potential to thrive in inflation-prone economies.

Still, Bitcoin’s behaviour as a risk asset, closely tied to market sentiment, underscores the challenge it faces in proving its efficacy as an inflation hedge.

Institutional Adoption: A Game-Changer

Wall Street’s growing involvement has further

legitimized Bitcoin.

Financial institutions like Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley have increased their Bitcoin holdings, signalling a shift in how the asset is perceived by institutional investors. Matt Hougan, CIO of Bitwise Asset Management, suggests that this adoption enhances Bitcoin’s credibility and stability, paving the way for it to become a portfolio staple rather than a speculative asset.

“Institutions see Bitcoin’s transformative potential for financial processes,” Hougan stated, highlighting the role of institutional engagement in reducing volatility and fostering

long-term growth.

Outlook

As political and economic factors align, Bitcoin is poised to sustain its upward momentum. While Trump’s presidency might accelerate short-term gains, the enduring impact of Bitcoin’s fundamentals, macroeconomic conditions, and institutional interest will determine whether it can cross—and maintain— the $100,000 threshold. The coming weeks could mark a pivotal moment for cryptocurrency markets as Bitcoin solidifies its status as both a hedge and an innovative financial asset.

adequately addressing scams on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. CHOICE reported suspicious ads to Meta, but poor response times and loopholes allowing repeat offenses highlight a lack of commitment to user safety.

2. Acerpure Clean Lite Stick Vacuum – The Worst Stick Vacuum Ever Tested: Acerpure’s $199 vacuum promised “great suction power” but delivered abysmal results in CHOICE’s performance tests, scoring just 10% on hard floors. Prone to clogs and requiring excessive maintenance, this vacuum creates more

work than it solves.

3. NIB – Unfairly Charging Single Parents: Health insurer NIB imposes significantly higher costs on single parents compared to couples for equivalent policies. Single parents face nearly double the premiums to add a child, with their policies sometimes costing more than those for childless couples—exposing systemic inequity in health insurance pricing.

4. Daily Juice Co –

Misleading ‘Green’ Juice Claims: Daily Juice Co’s “green” juices contain no vegetables and rely solely on food coloring for their green hue. CHOICE’s experiment with the listed ingredients revealed the juice’s true color—orange—proving there’s nothing “green” about it.

5. GroundingWell Grounding Socks – Unsubstantiated Health Claims: GroundingWell’s $40 socks promised to

alleviate pain, improve sleep, and reverse aging but failed to provide evidence for any of these benefits. Worse, the poorly constructed socks fell apart after two uses, making them doubly shonky.

CHOICE CEO: Shonkys Still Needed More Than Ever “As we near 20 years of the Shonky Awards, it’s clear they remain essential,” said CHOICE CEO Ashley de Silva. “From Meta’s inaction on scams to NIB’s

inequitable pricing, and products like the Acerpure vacuum and GroundingWell socks, shonkiness is alive and well.”

CHOICE urges consumers to remain vigilant and encourages regulators to hold companies accountable for misleading practices. For More Information Visit CHOICE Shonky Awards to learn more about this year’s winners and how to protect yourself as a consumer.

Pictured- Editorial Director Mark Serrels, CEO Ashley de Silva, and Campaigns Director Rosie Thomas

JEFF GIBBS

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

Gladiator 2

After over two decades since the release of Gladiator, one of the most iconic historical epics of modern cinema, a sequel is in the works, stirring excitement among fans of the original flm. Directed once again by Ridley Scott, Gladiator 2 has offcially begun flming, promising audiences another gripping journey through the brutal and politically charged world of ancient Rome. The highly anticipated flm revisits the legacy of the original, which won fve Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Russell Crowe.

Unlike the original flm, which focused on the vengeance-

fuelled journey of the betrayed Roman general Maximus, Gladiator 2 follows the story of Lucius, the son of Lucilla and nephew of the power-hungry

Emperor Commodus.

Played by Paul Mescal, Lucius has grown into a young man haunted by the trauma of witnessing Maximus’s legendary fght for justice. The

flm explores Lucius’s complex relationship with power, honour, and the lasting legacy of Maximus.

The cast is a powerhouse lineup,

including Mescal alongside Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington in an undisclosed role.

Additionally, returning from the original is veteran actor Derek

THE INFLUENCE

Scott & Kerrie have been performing together for quite a few years.

First performing together in the Accidents when Kerrie was asked to fll the role left vacant by Brooke Supple when she made the move to the UK.

Kerrie was the logical choice due to her amazing vocal ability and the perfect blend created with Scott’s voice.

Along with Scott’s renowned guitar

playing they make for an incredible musical experience.

Over the years Scott and Kerrie have worked on expanding their repertoire with all time classics as well as current songs.

Performing everything from Taylor Swift to AC/DC …. And great duets by Elton John & Kiki Dee, Bryan Adams and Sporty Spice, Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers, Stevie Nocks and Tom Petty etc.

Jacobi, reprising his role as the wise senator Gracchus, adding continuity and a touch of nostalgia. Scott promises the same grandiose battle scenes and meticulous historical detail that made the frst Gladiator a masterpiece.

Filming is taking place across historical locations in Italy and Morocco, capturing the sprawling beauty and danger of the ancient world.

Set for release in November 2024, Gladiator 2 is already one of the most highly anticipated flms of the decade, aiming to enthral a new generation while paying homage to the original classic.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday 22nd Nov @4:30pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: Free

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 Vijay Singh is best known for playing which sport?

(a) Football (soccer) (b) Cricket (c) Tennis (d) Golf

2 As at July 2024, what was the approximate population of the United Kingdom?

(a) 89.5 million (b) 111 million (c) 69 million (d) 147 million

3 Who won the 2023 Norm Smith Medal for best player in the AFL Grand Final?

(a) Nick Daicos (b) Jordan De Goey (c) Lachie Neale (d) Bobby Hill

4 A Stener lesion is a type of traumatic injury to which specific part of the human body?

(a) Thumb (b) Big toe (c) Knee (d) Elbow

5 The official languages of Sudan are Arabic and which other language?

(a) Hindi (b) French (c) English (d) Portuguese

6 Not While I’m Around is a song from which popular musical? (a) Sweeney Todd (b) Chess (c) Les Misérables (d) Rent

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 DOUGHTY

(a) Not confident

(b) Brave

(c) Dull-looking

2 EURO (a) A wallaroo

(b) A ditch round the arena in a Roman amphitheatre

(c) A brilliant discovery

3 INTRACTABLE

(a) Undaunted (b) Genuine (c) Obstinate

4 JURATORY

(a) Pertaining to an oath (b) Learned in law

(c) Pertaining to natural or positive right

5 PECULATE

(a) To pilfer or embezzle

(b) To theorise

(c) To congeal

BYRON BAY FLOORSANDING 0408 536 565

SUNDAY

FISK

ABC TV, 8pm

Season three of this warm-hearted comedy has seen our leading lady nd her feet in the heady world of suburban probate law. Helen Tudor-Fisk (co-creator Kitty Flanagan, pictured) has been making the most of her status as a name partner at Gruber & Fisk: “bringing in the coin” and networking like a pro. However, tonight’s season nale sees Ray (Marty Sheargold) broker a deal for Furstenburg Gray to buy out Gruber & Fisk, sending Helen into crisis – she’s going to be thrown back into the world of a giant multi-national law rm. Meanwhile, Ray and his sister Roz (Julia Zemiro) are having their own meltdowns and receptionist George (Aaron Chen) locks himself in the toilet.

FRIDAY, November 22

MONDAY

WHEEL OF FORTUNE AUSTRALIA

TEN, 7.30pm

Filmed in Manchester, England, the latest iteration of this perennial game show favourite sees expat Australians test their word-puzzle solving skills under the guidance of host-with-the-most Graham Norton (pictured). Premiering tonight, the reinvigorated format will see three players spin the wheel to be in with the chance of winning $50,000. Norton’s trademark wit and charm bring a real warmth to the game as he shares the players’ highs and lows and throws in a joke or two. At the end of each episode, Norton invites the player with the most winnings to spin the “Mini-Wheel”. If they can solve one puzzle within 10 seconds, they could be going home with the big prize.

TUESDAY

WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?

SBS, 8.30pm Composer

Andrew Lloyd Webber (pictured) delves into his family’s history in the rst episode of this 19th UK season of genealogical investigations, eager to nd out where his talent and love for musical theatre comes from. Searching his mother’s side, the Cats and Phantom of the Opera maestro discovers his lineage is “posher than we thought”, nding a knighted hero of the Battle of Waterloo and a formidable Tudor Duchess who stood up to Henry VIII. Turning to his father’s line, he uncovers the work of a missionary in 19thcentury London and a group of 18th-century theatrical musicians with eerie similarities to the current-day Lloyd Webber clan.

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 I Was Actually There. (PG, R) 11.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 12.00 News.

1.00 Shetland. (Malv, R)

2.00 Plum. (Mls, R)

3.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

3.30 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.15 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.05 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.05 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGal, R) 11.00 Secret Cities. (PGav, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.10 Secrets Of The Tower Of London. (PGa, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 The Supervet. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice.

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. Tammy Huynh refreshes pot plants.

8.30 Shetland. (Mal) Unnerved by her discovery, Calder decides to stay on in Shetland.

9.30 Fisk. (Ml, R) Ray has a big announcement.

10.00 Question Everything. (PG, R) Presented by Wil Anderson and Jan Fran.

10.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

11.05 ABC Late News.

11.20 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R)

12.05 The Space Shuttle That Fell To Earth. (PG, R)

1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Every Family Has A Secret. (Mav, R) 8.35 Castle Secrets. 9.30 Kennedy: The Kennedy Machine (1956-1960)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Elvira. (Premiere, Malv)

12.25 The Wall: The Chateau Murder. (Mlv, R) 2.55 Inside The Modelling Agency. (PGl, R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 P rates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 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: Battle Of The Stars. 9.55 Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 Beach Cops. (PG, R) 12.30 Test Cricket: Pre-Game Show. 1.20 Cricket. First Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Morning session. 3.20 Test Cricket: The Lunch Break. 4.00 Cricket. First Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Afternoon session. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Christmas By Chance. (2020,

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Cricket. First Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Late afternoon session. 9.00 Cricket. Women’s Big Bash League. Match 36. Brisbane Heat v Melbourne Stars. From Allan Border Field, Brisbane.

11.30 The Front Bar: Year In Review. (Ml, R) Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at the year that was in sport.

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

1.30 Taken. (Mav, R) Santana must face her past.

2.30 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

5.00 NBC Today. News and current a airs.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current A air.

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

8.40 MOVIE: U.S. Marshals.

(1998, Mlv, R) A US Marshal, accompanying a group of convicts on a ight, pursues an escaped fugitive. Tommy Lee Jones, Wesley Snipes, Robert Downey Jr. 11.20 Inside Beverly Hills. (Md) An escapist exploration of Beverly Hills.

12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.05 Helloworld. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

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

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Jamie Oliver: Fast & Simple. Presented by Jamie Oliver.

8.30 Matlock. (PGals, R) Matty’s rusty trial skills are put to the test during a wrongful termination case by a woman claiming she was sexually harassed by her boss. Shae, the rm’s jury consultant and master lie detector, joins the case. 9.30 NCIS: Origins. (Mav, R) 10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.55 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Have I Got News For You U.S. 1.25 The Wrestlers. 2.20 Tiny Beautiful Things. 2.55 Fashionista. 3.05 Planet A. 3.55 WorldWatch. 5.55 Adam Eats The 80s. 6.15 The Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 A League Of Their Own Road Trip: SE Asia. 9.25 Secrets Of Miss America. 10.15 Homeland. 12.10am Better Things. 1.25 King Of The Road. 3.15 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million

Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

(83) 6am Sometimes Always Never. Continued. (2018, PG) 6.35 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 8.30 Whisky Galore. (2016, PG) 10.20 Iron Sky. (2012, M) Noon Iron

6am Children’s Programs. Noon Gossip Girl. 2.00 I Dream Of Jeannie. 2.30 Bewitched. 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: Warcraft. (2016, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Sicario. (2015, MA15+)

AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

T R A E P E

D

W E Today’s target: 25 words average 32 words good

40+ 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

Joint ventures and trust issues are on the table but don’t spoil a potentially productive week by being a verbally blunt and/or physically reckless Ram. Slow down, think before you speak and consult with loved ones and colleagues before you make any important moves. Pluto shifts into your hopes-and-wishes zone mid-week (where it stays until 2043) so it’s a wonderful week to set transformative goals and dream powerful dreams for the years ahead.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

Powerful Pluto transits into your career zone mid-week (where it stays until 2043), so there are ambitious goals to set and lofty heights to reach over the next few years. Which will require hard work, passion and plenty of persistence. No procrastinating or snoozing on the sideline, Bulls! Then Friday’s Venus/Saturn link is fabulous for planning a heavenly holiday, networking with work colleagues or nurturing a long-term personal relationship.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

It’s time for a well-organised pivot, Gemini! Smart Twins will examine all possibilities, especially ones that come from left field. With powerful Pluto transiting into your aspirations’ zone, it’s important to have ambitious long-term goals that you’re steadily 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.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

This week the planetary focus is on your daily routine and work zone but expect some challenging developments and stressful moments. Resist the urge to be a bossy, moody and cantankerous Crab. Try to ground your emotional energy and calm your restless mind. Your motto for the moment is from actress Goldie Hawn (who turns 79 on Thursday): “The ability to remain calm and focused in stressful situations is central to making positive decisions.”

It’s a lovely week for Lions! On Tuesday, there’s a terrific Sun/Neptune trine which boosts creativity and compassion, so you’ll feel like painting, writing, performing or helping someone in need.

The Sun (your patron planet) shimmies into fellow fire sign Sagittarius (on Friday) when you’re fired up and ready to socialise, fraternise, travel and explore! Then the Sun links up with Pluto, which will help you take a deep dive into a special close relationship.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

Many Virgos will feel very unsettled on Monday, when the Mercury/Jupiter opposition stirs up your restless side. Then Pluto powers into your work and wellbeing zones, where it stays until 2043! So your job and your health will be under the microscope for many years to come. It’s a good time to reorganise your daily routine and work schedule, plus make your diet healthier and your fitness routine more regular. Your motto for the moment? Health is wealth.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

With Pluto transiting into your leisure and friendship zones, you’ll be drawn to exploring hobbies, people and places. A child’s talent blossoms, a new friendship flourishes or a burgeoning romance progresses to a deeper level. So expect a busy week full of pleasing partnerships, convivial conversations and colourful creativity. The weekend looks wonderful, courtesy of a work opportunity, an outdoor adventure or a favourite four-legged companion.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

Your power planet, Pluto, transits into Aquarius and makes a positive link with the Sun, which is fabulous for boosting personal charisma and generating creative ideas. Don’t be stubborn and unimaginative about your current plans and choices though. As birthday great, singersongwriter Bjork observes: “I sometimes fall into the trap of doing what I think I should be doing, rather than what I want to be doing”. Keep your mind flexible and your options open.

There’s an impulsive Mercury/Jupiter opposition on Monday, which boosts your blunt and tactless side. So slow down, Sagittarius, and think (carefully) before you speak, especially when dealing with family and friends. Pluto powers into your communication and education zones midweek, which could signal a learning renaissance as you consider studying a topic that has always fascinated you. Then the Sun shimmies into your sign, and it’s your turn to shine!

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

After sixteen years, Pluto finally transits out of your sign and into your inner/outer security zone. Hopefully you’ve learnt some important, transformative lessons along the way. Now you’re set for a major transformation involving self-esteem or financial matters over the next few years. Clever Capricorns will concentrate on personal development and growing your nest egg for the future. Friday is fantastic for strategic, long-term planning.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

Pluto transits into your sign, so curious, quirky Aquarians are keen to ricochet off in transformative new directions. And don’t worry about making messy, complicated (or embarrassing) mistakes along the way. Keep stretching your wings, trying new things and being the authentic you. Draw inspiration from actress Goldie Hawn (who celebrates her 79th birthday on Thursday): “I want to dig deep and ask – Who am I? What do I have to offer? What do I have to learn?”

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20) Tuesday’s Sun/Neptune trine favours compassionate, creative and spiritual pursuits. But 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 and socialising, and then come up with a cracking plan and pursue it. Powerful Pluto also encourages you to dream big and dig deep.

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

Film: The Movie Teller

M, 116 mins, Chile

A moving tribute to cinema and the magical power of storytelling, the new flm from multi award-winning director Lone Scherfg (An Education, One Day, Italian for Beginners) follows a young woman’s coming-of-age in a remote Chilean mining town.

1966. The nitrate salt fats of Chile’s Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth, couldn’t feel

further from the glamour of Hollywood, and life for the saltpetre miners is both hard and precarious. Every day is the same for Medardo (Antonio de La Torre, Marshland), his wife María Magnolia (Academy Awardnominee Bérénice Bejo, The Artist) and their four young children, except Sundays when they eagerly visit the cinema to disappear into other worlds together.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Sunday 24th & Wednesday 27th Nov

• Where: Star Court Theatre, Lismore

• Price: $18

Kyogle Christmas in the Country

Welcome to an unforgettable afternoon at the Kyogle Christmas in the Country Event!

Gates open at 12 PM and we can’t wait to celebrate the festive season with our amazing community.

• Demolition Derby: where local talent goes head-to-head in a spectacular showdown.

• Bull Ride: expertly organised by J & J Rodeo, bringing rodeo thrills right to our doorstep!

• Fence Post Ripping: event—a true crowdpleaser that showcases incredible skill and

strength.

• Santa photos: and enjoy the big screen featuring all the day’s excitement.

• Canteen and bar: serving up delicious food and drinks to keep everyone energised.

• Animal nursery: for some adorable cuddles with friendly animals!

• Cath Simes Band: ensuring a lively atmosphere throughout the afternoon.

Don’t miss out on this fun-flled community event! Mark your calendars for November 23rd and join us at the Kyogle Christmas in the

Country!

We look forward to celebrating with you!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 23rd Nov @12pm

• Where: Kyogle Showgrounds

• Price: From $7

Kelly Brouhaha at Pearce’s Creek Hall

“She’s known for having an extraordinarily rare voice” - CLARE BOWDITCH

Kelly Brouhaha is a powerhouse vocalist, transversing the lines of folk, country, blues, soul & jazz. Likened to the Eva Cassidy’s and Linda Rondstadt’s of the world, this is an artist who’s unique style cannot be put into a box. From big blues to soulful country, it is music that is real and raw and vulnerable.

“it’s just so much fun, that girls got amazing pipes, she sounds like Amy Winehouse - but with more of a soulful edge as opposed to a jazz

hook” NKECHI ANELE

- TRIPLE J ROOTS AND ALL

An accomplished acoustic guitarist with a vocal so powerful the audience is often left in tears, Brouhaha has racked a string of major festivals in 2023 including Gympie Music Muster, Woodford Folk Festival & Groundwater Music Festival.

“I really don’t know if we have anyone similar in Australia, I am pretty sure that we don’t. She has similar elements of other artists from overseas, and maybe a touch of Renee Geyer, but basically, she is

a one-off. In a close tunnel genre in Australia, Kelly is Queen. She is a no-nonsense, frebrand” COWGIRL UP BLOG

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday 22nd Nov @6pm

• Where: Pearces Creek Hall

• Price: Free - $30 +bf

The Official Blues Bros Revue

It seems like yesterday that brothers, Jake and Elwood Blues, played by John Belushi and Dan Ackroyd, invited the world to join them on a ‘mission from God’.

The hit movie The Blues Brothers was a loveable tale of redemption about the pair of paroled convicts, who set out to save the Catholic orphanage in which they grew up, from the taxation department. As the story goes, they re-formed their rhythm and blues band, The Blues Brothers, and organised a concert to raise $5,000 to pay off the

debt and save the day. But things never went according to plan for Jake and Elwood, and their story evolved into a rollicking journey of misadventure, and one of best loved movies of all time.

Now, forty years on, the Blues Brothers’ live on in the Offcial Blues Brothers Revue, and Australian Blues Brothers fans are set to get a nostalgic musical fx when the pair arrives from America to begin a tour Downunder.

Starring Wayne Catania as Jake and Kieron Lafferty as Elwood, the Blues Brothers Revue is the only Blues Brothers

show to be offcially sanctioned by Dan Ackroyd and wife of the late John Belushi, Judith Belushi.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 23rd Nov @8pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: $49

James Reyne- Crawl File Tour pt 2

Aussie music icon James Reyne, bringing is Crawl File Tour to Hotel Brunswick, Friday 22nd November for a night of non stop hits.

James Reyne is dipping back into the Crawl File, hitting the road to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Australian Crawl’s frst greatest hits collection. To coincide with the tour, Crawl File is being reissued on vinyl by

Universal Music.

Crawl File plays like a classic gig, opening with the band’s debut single, ‘Beautiful People’, and closing with their most popular live song, ‘The Boys Light Up’. In between are some of the mostloved Australian songs of all time, including ‘Reckless’, ‘Errol’, ‘Oh No Not You Again’, ‘Lakeside’, ‘Downhearted’ and ‘Things Don’t Seem’.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday 22nd Nov @6pm

• Where: Hotel Brunswick

• Price: $65

towering pyramids, ancient plazas, and crumbling temples.

Nestled in the heart of Central America, Guatemala is quickly emerging as a must-visit destination for travellers. With its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and long history, this country offers a wide variety of experiences for every kind of explorer.

A Land of Ancient History

One of the primary draws of Guatemala is its profound connection to the ancient Maya civilization, one of the most advanced societies of the pre-Columbian Americas. Travellers fock to the country’s famous archaeological sites, with Tikal being the crown jewel. Situated deep in the northern rainforest, Tikal is one of the largest and most spectacular Mayan ruins, offering visitors the chance to explore

Dating back as early as 400 BC, this UNESCO World Heritage site provides a window into the grandeur of Maya culture, which continues to infuence Guatemala today. But Tikal is only the beginning of Guatemala’s rich historical offerings.

Other Mayan sites, like Yaxha and El Mirador, offer equally fascinating glimpses into this ancient world, and many remain shrouded in the jungle, providing an off-thebeaten-path experience for adventurous travellers.

Volcanoes, Lakes, and Scenic Wonders

Beyond its historical signifcance, Guatemala is a nature lover’s paradise. The country’s diverse landscapes range from cloud forests to volcanic highlands, offering breathtaking

views at every turn. For those seeking adventure, the towering volcanoes are a major draw. Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes, three of which—Pacaya, Fuego, and Santiaguito—are active.

Pacaya, the most popular for visitors, offers the unique opportunity to hike up an active volcano and witness small eruptions and fowing lava. The climb is challenging, but those who make it to the summit are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Nearby, Fuego regularly puts on a dazzling show, with plumes of smoke and the occasional glow from its fery core visible from Antigua, one of Guatemala’s most charming colonial cities. For a more serene experience, travellers can visit Lake Atitlán, often described as one of the most beautiful

lakes in the world.

Surrounded by volcanic peaks and traditional Mayan villages, the lake offers an idyllic escape for relaxation, water activities, or exploration of the vibrant local cultures. Visitors can take boat rides between the various lakeside villages, each with its own distinct character and attractions. Whether you’re learning about traditional weaving techniques in San Juan La Laguna or enjoying the lively markets in Panajachel, Lake Atitlán offers a peaceful yet enriching experience.

Cultural Immersion in Antigua Guatemala’s culture is an intoxicating blend of indigenous traditions and Spanish colonial infuences, and nowhere is this more evident than in Antigua. Once the capital of Guatemala, Antigua is a beautifully preserved colonial city known for its pastel-

coloured buildings, cobblestone streets, and stunning Baroque architecture.

A visit to Antigua feels like stepping back in time, as the city’s historic centre remains remarkably well-preserved. Visitors can stroll through the Plaza Mayor, visit the striking ruins of churches damaged by past earthquakes, and take in the beauty of landmarks like the Santa Catalina Arch, one of the city’s most photographed spots. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular base for tourists looking to explore nearby volcanoes or participate in cultural workshops, such as chocolate-making classes or traditional Guatemalan cooking lessons.

Antigua also offers an excellent food scene, with its abundance of cozy cafés, upscale

restaurants, and street food stalls offering everything from tamales to pepián, a traditional Guatemalan stew. The city’s lively artisan markets and boutique shops also give visitors the chance to pick up unique, handcrafted souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re drawn to Guatemala for its historical treasures, natural beauty, or vibrant culture, the country offers an unforgettable experience. Its warm and welcoming people, combined with the sheer diversity of things to see and do, make Guatemala a destination that belongs on every traveller’s bucket list. From ancient Mayan cities and colonial charm to breathtaking volcanoes and serene lakes, Guatemala is a place where history and nature come together in a way that promises adventure and inspiration for all.

Corporate Apartment & House Accommodation

LIAM JENNINGS

Study Finds Frailty Increases Dementia Risk

An international study led by the University of Queensland’s Centre for Health Services Research has found that frailty signifcantly increases the risk of dementia. However, early intervention strategies could play a key role in prevention.

The study, led by Dr. David Ward, analysed data from nearly 30,000 participants across four longitudinal studies in the UK and US. Researchers tracked health and function changes up to 20 years before dementia diagnoses, uncovering critical insights into the relationship between frailty and cognitive decline.

“The accumulation of age-related conditions indicates increasing frailty, which we found accelerates up to nine years before a dementia diagnosis,” Dr. Ward said.

“Our fndings show that for every 4–5 additional health problems, there is a 40% higher risk of dementia. Conversely, ftter individuals face a lower risk. This suggests frailty actively contributes to dementia onset, not just as a consequence of undetected dementia.”

Understanding Frailty and Dementia Frailty is an age-related health condition marked by declining resilience in multiple organ systems, leading to higher risks of falls, disability, and hospitalizations.

Dr. Ward emphasized the importance of recognizing frailty as a modifable risk factor:

“People age at different rates, and the degree of frailty is determined by the

accumulation of health problems. Addressing frailty through targeted interventions like exercise and nutrition can reduce dementia risk and improve quality of life.”

The study supports incorporating frailty screening into routine health check-ups and using the results to guide prevention programs.

Dementia’s Global Impact

Dementia affects over 55 million people worldwide, with 10 million new cases annually, according to the World Health Organization. This study provides vital insights into how addressing frailty can reduce dementia risk and alleviate the growing global burden.

A Collaborative Effort Co-author Professor David Llewellyn from the University of Exeter Medical School highlighted the study’s signifcance: “Identifying frailty as a predictor of dementia risk offers a pathway for early intervention. International collaboration enabled us to examine diverse populations, strengthening the fndings’ validity and shaping future clinical trials.”

The research, involving institutions from Australia, Europe, and North America, was supported by the Deep Dementia Phenotyping (DEMON) Network and the Australian Frailty Network (AFN). It underscores the need to address frailty as part of a comprehensive strategy to prevent dementia, improving outcomes for millions globally.

Luna, Teddy, and Hugo Top the Charts as Australians Favor Human Names for Pets

Pet Insurance Australia has unveiled the nation’s most popular pet names

Top 10 Female Dog Names

Luna

Daisy

Coco

Nala

Lola

Winnie

Molly

Millie

Bella

Ruby

Human Names

Strengthen Bonds

“It’s fascinating to see how traditional human names have become a staple for pets,” says Crighton. “Names like Luna and Teddy highlight a growing trend of treating pets as integral family members, refecting the emotional depth of the pet-owner relationship.”

Luna, a long-standing favourite among female dog names, retains its top spot for another year, while adventurous and descriptive names like Rocket and natureinspired Penny are making waves in the cat-naming arena.

Naming Tips for New Pet Owners

for 2024, revealing a growing trend of giving traditional human names to beloved furry friends.

“Luna, a name with celestial and

mythological roots, is a top choice among dog and cat owners,” says Nadia Crighton of Pet Insurance Australia. “Similarly, Teddy,

Top Pet Names of 2024

Top 10 Male Dog Names

Teddy

Henry

With the arrival of puppy season, choosing the perfect name can be an exciting yet challenging task. Pet Insurance Australia offers the following tips to help:

1. Keep It Simple: Choose names with one or two syllables for easier recognition by your pet.

2. Avoid Command Confusion: Steer clear of names that sound similar to commands like “Sit” or “Stay.”

3. Refect Their Personality: Spend time observing your new pet’s traits before deciding on a name.

Creative Inspiration for Pet Names

For those seeking

Top 10 Female Cat Names

Minnie

Molly

Coco

Lucy

Milly

Penny

Pepper

Violet

Angel

unique or meaningful names, consider these sources:

• Literature and Mythology: Names like “Athena,” “Hercules,” or “Gatsby” offer distinctive fair.

• Nature-Inspired Names: Options like “Willow,” “River,” or “Aspen” evoke natural beauty.

• Cultural References: Explore names from different languages or cultures, such as “Kai” or “Amara.”

The Deeper Meaning Behind Human Names for Pets

“This trend underscores a societal shift in how we perceive our pets,” says Crighton. “By assigning them human

derived from Edward or Theodore, and Hugo, a name popular worldwide, show how human names have transcended into pet naming conventions.”

Top 10 Male Cat Names

Hugo

Alfe

Archie

Odin

Prince

Apollo

Barney

Beau

names, we emphasize their role as cherished members of the family, elevating the connection and companionship they bring.”

As Australians continue to embrace human names for their pets, the naming process has become a way to celebrate the individuality of each furry friend. Whether inspired by a name’s meaning, cultural signifcance, or personal connection, choosing the perfect name is a wonderful step in building a lifelong bond with your new companion. For more information or advice, visit Pet Insurance Australia.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Depression in Older People?

Depression is a mental health condition that can affect individuals of all ages, including older adults. Feeling down occasionally is normal, but depression is characterized by persistent low mood lasting two weeks or more, affecting everyday life. Older people may misattribute symptoms of depression to ageing, poor health, or dementia, which can delay seeking help. Early recognition and intervention are crucial, as depression is treatable, and recovery is possible.

How Common is

Over 1 in 10 older people and more than 3 in 10 residents in agedcare facilities experience depression. While not all older people become depressed, they are less likely to discuss their symptoms, seeking help only when symptoms become severe. Timely treatment can help most older adults recover effectively.

Causes of Depression in Older People

The three main contributors are poor physical health, social isolation, and loss.

1. Poor Physical Health:

Medical conditions like

vitamin defciencies, cancer, thyroid disease, and infections can trigger depression. Reduced mobility or conditions like arthritis may lead to increased dependency, loss of dignity, or fears about aged care. Certain medications, including blood pressure medicines, steroids, and painkillers, may also contribute.

2. Social Isolation: Age-related challenges, such as the loss of friends or reduced ability to socialize, can lead to feelings of loneliness.

3. Loss in Old Age: Loss of loved ones, health, independence, or pets can trigger depression. Coping well

with loss is possible, but prolonged symptoms beyond 3–6 months may indicate depression.

Signs of Depression in Older People

Older adults may show physical rather than emotional symptoms, such as:

• Dizziness, aches and pains, or weight loss

• Diffculty sleeping (insomnia)

• Changes in behaviour, such as withdrawal, lack of interest, or excessive alcohol use

• Suicidal thoughts, refected in talking about death or giving away possessions If signs persist for two weeks or more, seek

Understanding Depression in Older People

What is Depression in Older People?

professional help. Treatment for Depression in Older People

• Medical Treatments: Antidepressants can be effective but may take longer to work in older adults.

• Therapies: Psychotherapy, like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), is proven to help.

• Self-help and Lifestyle Changes: Encouraging physical activity, social connections, and participation in therapies like music can aid recovery. For severe cases, treatments like Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) may be considered.

How to Support Older Adults with Depression

Discuss concerns openly, encouraging them to see a doctor. Reduce isolation by arranging visits or engaging them in community activities. Remind them that

depression is treatable, even in later life.

Resources and Support For immediate crisis support, call 000, Lifeline (13 11 14), or the Suicide Call Back Service (1300 659 467). For ongoing help:

• Beyond Blue: Call 1300 224 636 for support and resources.

• Black Dog Institute: Offers fact sheets and treatment information.

• healthdirect: Speak to a nurse 24/7 at 1800 022 222.

Specialized support is also available for LGBTQI+ individuals (Qlife: 1800 184 527) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. For multicultural resources, visit Embrace Mental Health.

Depression in older adults is a medical condition, not a weakness. Seeking help is the frst step toward recovery.

JEFF GIBBS

NAB Cuts Rates Ahead of RBA, Offering Relief to Borrowers

ROBERT HEYWARD

National Australia Bank (NAB) has pre-empted the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) by slashing its basic variable home loan rate by 40 basis points to 6.44%, marking its frst cut in a year. The move could save new customers on a $500,000 loan approximately $126 per month and is likely to intensify competition in the home loan market as the holiday season approaches.

Competition Heats Up Among Lenders

The cut is seen as a strategic response to growing rivalry between banks, particularly as Commonwealth

Bank (CBA) and ANZ increasingly offer lowrate, digital-only loans.

Rachel Wastell, a personal fnance expert at Mozo, called the move “an early Christmas present” for new borrowers.

“NAB’s cut is substantial, equivalent to nearly two RBA cuts, and it’s refreshing to see a big four bank make this move without forcing borrowers into digitalonly products,” she said.

Market Trends and Big Four Movements

Data from Canstar highlights a trend of rate cuts for new customers across the lending market, with 63 reductions recorded since July. Among the big four banks:

How Home Prices Defed Rate Hikes

Despite a steep rise in interest rates over the past two years, Australian home prices have shown remarkable resilience. Data from PropTrack reveals that 77% of suburbs nationally saw higher median house prices by September 2024

compared to when the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) began raising rates in May 2022. Unit prices also climbed in 71% of suburbs during the same period.

Affordable Suburbs Lead Growth

South Australia, Western Australia, and Queensland dominated the list of suburbs

• CBA reduced select new customer rates in August.

• NAB previously cut its Tailored Home Loan rate by 78 basis points in April.

NAB’s 6.44% rate is now the lowest branchaccess variable rate among the big four, although ANZ (6.14%) and CBA (6.19%) offer lower rates exclusively through digital-only options for refnancing, not new customers.

Sally Tindall, Canstar’s data insights director, noted that while new

with the greatest price growth. PropTrack

Senior Economist Angus Moore attributed this to affordability: “Higher interest rates reduced borrowing capacities, pushing buyers toward more affordable locations,” Mr. Moore said.

Adelaide’s Davoren Park saw the nation’s largest increase, with house prices surging 82% from $255,000 in May 2022 to $465,000 in September 2024. Units in Salisbury East, also in Adelaide, experienced a staggering 91% growth, leading national unit price gains.

customers beneft from these reductions, existing borrowers often feel left out.

“Existing NAB borrowers should use this as an opportunity to renegotiate. Jump online, compare rates, and ask for a cut. Many lenders currently offer variable rates under 6%,” she advised.

Potential Savings for Borrowers

For new customers, NAB’s rate cut offers tangible savings:

• $189/month on a $750,000 loan.

Impact of Higher Interest Rates

The RBA raised interest rates 13 times from May 2022 to November 2023, holding them at 4.35%, signifcantly reducing borrowing capacity. Sydney-based mortgage broker Luke Camilleri estimated a decline of 30–40%, noting: “A borrower who could access $1 million before the hikes can now borrow $600,000 to $700,000.”

This shift prompted buyers to reassess their options, focusing on lower-priced properties or relocating to more affordable

• $251/month on a $1 million loan.

Wastell encouraged existing borrowers to consider renegotiating their rates ahead of the holidays.

“This could provide the relief many buyers and homeowners need as we head into Christmas,” she said.

RBA Rate Cuts on the Horizon?

The RBA has held rates steady at 4.35% for nearly a year, but analysts predict cuts are on the way as infation cools. Major

regions, particularly in Queensland, WA, and SA.

Shifting Homeowner Strategies

While higher rates increased mortgage repayments, many homeowners adapted by reducing spending.

Some leveraged equity gains—driven by rising property values—to invest in interstate properties offering better affordability and yields. Others opted to downsize, freeing up cash and lowering housing costs.

Rate Cuts on the Horizon?

After nearly a year of steady rates, speculation about interest rate cuts is mounting. Lower infation and market predictions point to a potential rate reduction as early as December 2024, with banks like

banks, including CBA and NAB, expect a reduction as early as December 2024 or early 2025, potentially giving borrowers a further boost.

With NAB’s latest move shaking up the market, it remains to be seen how competitors will respond and whether the RBA will deliver rate cuts in the coming months. For borrowers, now may be the time to lock in better deals.

NAB forecasting a move by February 2025.

According to Mr. Moore, reduced rates would boost borrowing power, likely supporting further price growth:

“Lower rates will provide a tailwind for home prices, though growth will be more subdued than during 2021’s housing boom.”

Challenges such as rising unemployment and affordability pressures are expected to temper future price surges, ensuring a more balanced market.

Despite the economic turbulence of rising rates, Australia’s property market has remained surprisingly robust, underpinned by strong demand in affordable regions and adaptive strategies from homeowners and buyers.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Max Crus is a Clarence Valley-based wine writer and Grape Expectations is now in its 28th year of publication. Find out more about Max or sign up for his weekly reviews and musings by visiting maxcrus.com.au

The race that stopped a notion.

Yes, the race that stopped the nation has been run and won again.

The build-up, the anticipation, the trash talking, the passion and the promises, the glitz and the glamour, all the fanfare and all the fun of the fair.

Rock stars pop stars, movie stars, rich people, uber-rich people, incomprehensibly rich people, the tipsters, the tipsy, the gamblers (but they’re everywhere

Robert Oatley Finisterre Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, $40. Robert Oatley wines have long been pretty good value, as evidenced by the stuff you get in your local RSL for little more than $20 (per bottle!) but their WA stuff, specially the fagship Finisterre range, is a cut above. All the depth and

now), and of course more politicians than you can poke a stick at which is exactly what you want to do to most of them.

Then in the blink of an eye it’s all over.

And then there’s the Melbourne Cup, which we didn’t win either. Indeed it’s hard to know if anyone was a winner on the day in either race. Apart from the bookies.

Yes, it was a sad day for everyone, except those

measure of sophistication. The opposite of Trump. 9.5/10.

Robert Oatley Finisterre Chardonnay 2022, $40. How appropriate for this election, Finisterre means ‘ends of the earth’, which could well be the case with Donald back. Anyway, you could go back to Trump and more

who had $50 each way on Knight’s Choice, and especially for pollsters, who can’t seem to win (or predict) a trick, emblematic of the similarities between both races. Why do we keep paying and/or listening to either?

No-one tipped the winner and most polls and punters predicted a close race. Well, one out of two ain’t bad, notwithstanding they were predicting other horses, one of which, mine, wasn’t even

but why would you?

Guess you have to ask America. 9.4/10.

Robert Oatley Great Southern Signature Series Riesling 2023 (2024 out now), $23

This sounds like such a patriotic wine; it always makes me break into song…’Great Southern wine’. A very refreshing

called during the race.

Nobody in the early days, both back in 2016 and this time, begrudged Trump’s ambition to ‘drain the swamp’, but few people imagined that the public service and administrative dead wood would be replaced by Elon Musk. Surely the American equivalent of giving the Duke of Edinburgh a knighthood.

However there was a silver lining to this

Clare or Eden Rieslings, which, like Wyoming and Maine, gives it bonus Riesling electoral college votes. 9.4/10.

Robert Oatley Magaret River Signature Series Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, $23. Nestled somewhere in between the wine for the garbage and wine for Elon, this isn’t so

constitutional and political black cloud - clearly anyone can become president and an example has been set for kiddies that lying, cheating, babbling nonsensical infammatory bullshit, being racist, sexist, misogynistic, Sinophobic and Islamophobic, stealing and committing crimes such as sexually assaulting women and denying them a termination when you go too far, is no impediment to becoming the leader of the

gun that Elon wouldn’t be drinking it, if he was that sort of guy, but he’s more your Red Bull kind of megalomaniac. 9.3/10.

Robert Oatley Margaret River Signature Series Chardonnay 2023, $23

The hand that signed the chardonnay. Warm and friendly white that could handle all the democratic

United States, whereupon you instal a judiciary to pardon you. Doesn’t get any better, does it?

Actually, it does. Easily the best thing - okay, maybe the only good thing - to come out of the US election, and the Cup, was the opportunity to have a party at midday complete with Despot (We’re Eating The) Dogs, Presidential Pasties and Fascist Flans, all washed down with:

if you weren’t throwing it at the TV last Wednesday. 9.3/10.

Robert Oatley McLaren Vale Signature Series Shiraz 2022, $23. Suitably solid stuff from the ‘Vale’, with all the warmth of Kamala and a modicum of the brash of the other contender, minus the orange hair thankfully.

Max Crus

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

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

MANGO CHICKEN CURRY

INGREDIENTS

• 425g can mango slices in syrup

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1kg chicken thigh fllets, halved

• 1 brown onion, sliced

• 1 red capsicum, seeded, thinly sliced

• 1 garlic clove, crushed

• 1 tsp fnely grated ginger

• 1/3 cup (100g) korma curry paste

• 400ml can coconut milk

• 1/2 cup (125ml) chicken stock

• Steamed basmati rice, to serve

• Sliced green chilli, to serve

• Lime wedges, to serve

• 1/3 cup coriander leaves, to serve

METHOD

1. Place the mango slices in a blender, discarding the syrup, and blend until pureed.

2. Heat half the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken in batches for 5 minutes or until browned. Remove to a plate.

3. Heat remaining oil in the same pan over mediumlow heat. Add onion and cook for 3 mins. Add capsicum, garlic and ginger and cook for a further 2 mins. Add korma paste and cook stirring for 2 mins or until aromatic. Stir in coconut milk, stock and pureed mango. Return the chicken to the pan. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and cook covered for 20 mins or until chicken is cooked through.

4. Serve curry with steamed basmati rice, green chilli, lime wedges and topped with extra coriander leaves.

HARISSA CHICKEN, LENTIL AND KALE TRAY BAKE

25m prep 35m cook serves 4

INGREDIENTS

• 3 small carrots, peeled, diagonally sliced

• 2 large red onions, cut into thin wedges

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tsp harissa paste

• 1 lemon, rind zested, juiced

• 1 garlic clove, crushed

• 8 (about 500g) chicken tenderloins, trimmed

• 400g can no-added-salt brown lentils, rinsed, drained

• 80g Chopped Kale

• 160ml (2/3 cup) salt reduced chicken style liquid stock

• 90g (1/3 cup) labneh, drained

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 200C/180C fan forced. Line a large baking dish or tray with baking paper. Place the carrot, onion and rosemary in prepared dish and drizzle with the oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until light golden and tender.

2. Meanwhile, combine the harissa, 1 tbs lemon juice and garlic in a shallow dish. Add the chicken and turn to coat. Set aside for 10 minutes to marinate.

3. Place the lentils, kale and stock in the dish with the carrot mixture and stir to combine. Top with the chicken. Bake for a further 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Top with labneh and a little lemon zest. Season and serve.

25m prep 35m cook serves 4

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 cups (300g) pearl couscous

• 1 cup (120g) frozen peas

• 2 x 150g pkts Deli Baby Bell Peppers Stuffed With Cream Cheese, drained

• 1 red onion, fnely chopped

• 1/3 cup chopped fat-leaf parsley

• 2 tbsp avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 garlic clove, crushed

• 2 tbsp fnely grated lemon rind

METHOD

1. Cook the couscous in a large saucepan of boiling water for 10 mins or until tender, adding the peas in the last 4 mins of cooking. Refresh under cold water. Drain well. Transfer to a large bowl.

2. Add the peppers to the couscous mixture in the bowl with the onion, parsley, oil, lemon juice and garlic. Season. Toss to combine. Transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle with lemon rind.

If you’re a cat owner with a love for gardening, balancing the safety of your feline friend with the well-being of your plants and wildlife can be challenging. Cats are naturally curious creatures and love to roam, explore, and hunt. However, allowing them unrestricted access to your garden or the neighbourhood can pose risks to both your pets and the environment. One effective solution that has gained popularity is cat netting, which provides a safe outdoor space for your cat without allowing them to wander freely.

Cat netting, also known as a cat enclosure or cat-proof fencing, is a type of mesh or net system designed to keep cats confned to a specifc area while allowing them to enjoy outdoor space safely. It can be installed around your garden, backyard, or on balconies, creating a contained environment where cats can explore, play, and relax without the risk of escaping or coming into harm.

The mesh used in cat netting is usually sturdy and fexible, making it resistant to scratching or tearing by curious cats. The netting is typically installed at a height and angle that prevents cats from climbing over it, ensuring they stay within the designated area.

One of the primary reasons for installing cat netting is to keep your beloved pet safe. Outdoor cats are exposed to numerous dangers, including traffc, predators, and poisonous plants. By confning them to a specifc space within your garden, you reduce these risks signifcantly. Cat netting prevents your pet from wandering into busy streets or getting into dangerous encounters with other animals.

hunters, and when left to roam freely, they can have a devastating impact on local wildlife, particularly birds, small mammals, and reptiles. By using cat netting, you help protect the local ecosystem and prevent your cat from indulging in its predatory instincts. This is especially important in regions where certain species are vulnerable or endangered.

If you’ve spent time and effort creating a beautiful garden, the last thing you want is your cat digging up your plants, using garden beds as litter boxes,

or damaging fragile fowers and vegetables. Cat netting can help keep your garden intact by preventing your feline from accessing certain areas, allowing you to enjoy both a happy cat and a thriving garden.

Indoor cats can become bored or stressed if they lack stimulation, and outdoor time can provide them with mental and physical enrichment. With cat netting, your cat can enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and the sights and sounds of nature without the dangers

associated with being a free-roaming outdoor cat. It’s the perfect balance between safety and exploration.

Cat netting systems come in various shapes and sizes, and they can be easily tailored to ft your specifc garden layout. Whether you have a small balcony, a spacious backyard, or a compact urban garden, there’s a cat netting solution that can be adapted to your space. You can choose permanent installations or temporary, movable netting depending on your needs.

Installing cat netting in your garden is a relatively simple process, and you can either do it yourself or hire a professional. Here’s a basic guide to help you get started:

Decide where you want to place the netting and how much space you want to allocate for your cat. Consider factors such as the height of fences, proximity to neighbouring properties, and access to shaded areas. Measure the perimeter of the area to determine how much netting you will need.

You’ll need durable, weather-resistant mesh or netting material, and

any necessary hardware, such as clips, fasteners, or brackets. Look for netting specifcally designed for cats, which will be strong enough to withstand scratching and climbing.

If your garden already has a fence, wall, or other structure, you can install directly onto that structure. You can also get designated poles to hold the netting in if you don’t have a solid structure. To stop the cat from climbing over the net, insert poles

and netting at an angle towards the base. The poles should be angled inward at around 45 degrees to prevent your cat from climbing over the netting.

Once the poles are in place, attach the netting to the top of the fence or poles using fasteners or clips. Make sure the netting is taut and free of gaps where a determined cat could squeeze through. The netting should extend across the entire area you wish to enclose.

Check the base of the netting to ensure there are no gaps where your cat could dig under or slip through. You can secure the bottom of the netting with pegs or stones if necessary.

After installation, observe your cat’s behaviour to ensure they cannot escape or fnd weaknesses in the netting. Make any adjustments to the structure as needed.

Cat netting is an excellent investment for pet owners who want to give their cats the freedom to enjoy the outdoors while keeping them safe and protecting the garden. It’s a humane solution that benefts both your cat and the local wildlife. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a new pet owner, cat netting offers peace of mind, knowing that your cat can enjoy nature without the associated risks.

Cats are natural

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX CASINO 13/11/2024

At the latest Casino cattle sale, a mixed yarding of 778 head saw varied outcomes across categories, with both plain and premium cows making up increased numbers. Weaners experienced notable gains, with heifer prices rising 31c/kg on restocker demand. Light weaner steers (under 200 kg) saw a cheaper trend due to lower quality in some offerings, while heavier weaner steers (up to 280 kg) achieved gains of 17c/kg, ranging from 250c to 458c/kg.

Yearling cattle presented mixed results. Light feeders fell by 41c/kg, selling between 258c and 354c/kg, and medium-weight feeders dropped to a peak of 325c/kg. In contrast, light heifers gained 22c/kg, with medium weights for backgrounding reaching up to 300c/kg.

Grown steers destined for processing fetched between 280c and 320c/kg, while grown heifers sold within a narrower range of 292c to 302c/kg. Medium cows saw a 21c/kg improvement, and

WARWICK

WARWICK & DISTRICT LIVESTOCK MARKETS – WEEK ENDING 15/11/2024

The weekly livestock sales in Warwick and surrounding districts experienced a solid market despite the inclement weather. Rainfall reduced yarding numbers but sparked increased demand from buyers seeking replacement and feed-on stock. Total yarding included 1,074 head of cattle and 1,757 sheep and lambs, with improved market conditions across the board.

Cattle Market Highlights

• Bulls: Averaged 294.8c/kg, topping at 336.2c/kg, translating to $1,272.40–$3,204.84 per head.

• Cows: Averaged 266.3c/kg, topping at 305.2c/kg, with prices ranging from $1,407.53 to $2,233.05 per head.

• Feeder Heifers: Averaged 280.6c/kg, peaking at 325c/kg, achieving $992.94–$1,718.26 per head.

• Feeder Steers: Averaged 325.1c/kg, reaching a top of 380.2c/kg, with prices between $1,157.35 and $1,660.63 per head.

• Heifers: Averaged 311.9c/kg, peaking at 422.2c/ kg, returning $1,561.54–$2,396.93 per head.

• Steers: Averaged 336.6c/kg, topping at 394.2c/kg,

Per: Head

Statistics By Stock Type

Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange

Report Prepared At 12:30 Wednesday, November 13, 2024 By MS At Workstation OUTCROSSOFFICE2

heavy cows gained 9c to 12c/kg, topping at 289c/kg. Bulls sold steadily, ranging from 252c to 291c/kg.

Overall, while weaners saw the strongest demand

achieving $1,945.61–$2,613.68 per head.

• Vealer Heifers: Averaged 276.6c/kg, peaking at 340.2c/kg, at $594.94–$1,105.65 per head.

• Vealer Steers: Averaged 331.4c/kg, topping at 440.2c/kg, selling for $751.92–$1,332.00 per head.

• Yearling Heifers: Averaged 315.4c/kg, peaking at 386.2c/kg, returning $1,044.08–$1,518.12 per head.

• Yearling Steers: Averaged 300.8c/kg, topping at 440.2c/kg, selling for $1,241.17–$3,204.84 per head.

Overall Cattle Market: Averaged $1,234.53 per head, with total gross sales of $1.325 million.

Sheep and Lamb Market Highlights

• Lambs: Topped at $232, averaging $136.17 (up $3/ head from last week).

• Hoggets: Topped at $155, averaging $85.81 (up $8/head).

• Ewes: Topped at $86, averaging $46.57 (up $2/ head).

• Wethers: Topped at $87, averaging $34.17 (up $4/ head).

• Ram Lambs: Topped at $104, averaging $74.92 (up $14/head).

• Rams: Topped at $102, averaging $58.67 (up $22/ head).

Overall Sheep and Lamb Market: Averaged $104.49 per head, up $3/head week-on-week.

and gains, yearling and cow categories had mixed results, refecting buyer preferences and quality variances across the yarding.

Pork and Poultry Market Summary

• Pork:

o Sows sold from $180 to $350.

o Boars reached $190.

o Baconers ranged from $170 to $330.

o Light pork ranged from $200 to $225.

o Stores fetched $56 to $220.

• Poultry:

o Guinea fowl sold for up to $46.

o Chicks reached $48.

o Turkeys fetched up to $58.

o Call Ducks sold for $50, while hens and ducklings reached $42 and $46, respectively.

Sheep and Lamb Vendor Highlights

• Ennismore Farming: Dorset lambs (56kg) sold for $206.

• Greenup Maryland P/S: Dorset lambs (51.2kg) sold for $190.

• Bodumba Farming: Dorper lambs sold between $175–$180, with hoggets fetching $106–$117.

• Droney Inv: Dorper lambs (55kg) reached $205.

• Norma Chalk: Lambs sold for $179, with ewes fetching $80.

• Wilsonton Ag: Lambs (44–50kg) fetched $171–$211, while hoggets topped at $155. Despite challenging weather conditions, the market demonstrated strong buyer support, refecting optimism for livestock trade in the region.

Grow You Good Thing! Celebrate National Agriculture Day This Friday

IAN ROGERS

The countdown is on for the biggest celebration on Australia’s agricultural calendar! This Friday, November 15, farmers and all Australians are invited to tip their hats to Aussie-grown food and fbre as we mark National Agriculture Day (AgDay).

With the theme “Grow you good thing!”, National Farmers’ Federation President David Jochinke says AgDay is about recognizing the incredible contributions of Australian farmers and fostering a deeper connection between the farm sector and everyday Australians.

“No matter where you live or what you do, agriculture touches your life every single day,” Mr. Jochinke said.

“Australia is one of the few places in the world where we can walk into a supermarket and fll our trolleys with fresh, nutritious food without a second thought. Even during tough times, such as severe droughts in parts of the country, consumers continue to enjoy uninterrupted access to high-quality produce.”

“Australian farmers are among the best in

the world at what they do, and that’s something we should all be proud of. National Agriculture Day is a time to celebrate their hard work and dedication to feeding and clothing the nation.”

How to Get Involved

Mr. Jochinke encourages Australians everywhere to participate in AgDay by joining an event, wearing their AgDay t-shirts, and learning more about

farming. He also hopes farmers will take a moment to share their stories with the public.

“For many farmers, it’s the busiest time of year with grain harvest in full swing, but I encourage them to show the world why they love what they do and how they’re making a difference,” he said.

Here’s how you can get involved:

• Host a backyard BBQ

or paddock picnic: Bring together family, friends, or colleagues to enjoy the best of Aussie-grown produce.

• Share your story: Whether you’re a farmer or a supporter of Aussie agriculture, post on social media using #AgDayAU to share why you’re proud of Australian farming.

• School activities: Teachers and students can explore the science

David Jochinke

behind farming, learn how food gets from paddock to plate, and discover how fbre is turned into clothes and everyday items.

• Enter the photo and video competition: Capture the theme “Grow you good thing!” for a chance to win your share of the $5000 prize pool, thanks to Syngenta. Entries close at 5pm (AEDT) on Friday.

Celebrate Australian Agriculture

Whether you’re hosting an event, sharing your story, or simply enjoying a delicious meal made with Aussie-grown ingredients, National Agriculture Day is the perfect opportunity to show appreciation for the people who make it all possible.

For more information on AgDay events, resources, and competition details, visit agday.org.au.

Agricultural Lending Grows as Farmers Invest in Expansion

The Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority (APRA) reports a 6% increase in lending to the farm sector during 2022-23, with total agricultural debt reaching $120.5 billion.

Dr. Jared Greenville, Executive Director of ABARES, attributed the rise in debt to ongoing investment in the sector.

“Farmers are borrowing to reinvest in their businesses, with a particular focus on land purchases

as they expand their operations,” Dr. Greenville said.

“Higher land prices have increased equity, enabling farmers to manage debt more effectively, while strong farm incomes over recent years have supported their ability to service these borrowings.”

Uneven Distribution of Farm Debt

The data reveals an uneven distribution of debt across farms.

In 2022-23:

• 5% of broadacre and dairy farms—mostly those with the largest turnovers—accounted for nearly 40% of total debt.

• Nearly 50% of farms in the same categories carried little to no debt.

Dr. Greenville highlighted the low proportion of farms in

fnancial stress due to debt in 2022-23.

“For instance, fewer than 1% of broadacre and dairy farms had both low borrowing capacity and high debt-servicing commitments, compared to an average of 7% over the last 20 years,” he noted.

Future Challenges

Despite these positive indicators, Dr. Greenville acknowledged shifting dynamics since the 2022-23 reporting period.

“Higher interest rates, combined with lower average farm incomes, changing seasonal conditions, and fuctuating commodity prices, are likely infuencing borrowing decisions moving forward,” he said.

Explore the Data

Detailed insights into trends in farm debt can be found in the ABARES report: Trends in Farm Debt: Agricultural Lending Data 2022–23

Irrigators Slam Ministers’ Political Smokescreen Over Murray-Darling Basin Plan

IAN ROGERS

Irrigators have criticized Minister Tanya Plibersek’s announcement of “1,000 willing sellers” for the Commonwealth’s water buyback tender under the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, labeling it a political stunt timed to coincide with Senate Estimates.

Zara Lowien, CEO of the National Irrigators’ Council, dismissed the announcement as misleading, citing historical issues with buyback tenders.

“The last time Minister Plibersek claimed a tender was oversubscribed, the Government later rejected 72% of offers, contracting just a fraction—26 GL out of 90 GL—due to valuefor-money concerns,” said Ms. Lowien.

“Having 1,000 willing sellers is irrelevant if procurement guidelines prevent the Government from proceeding with those purchases. This announcement is just another political smokescreen to infate the perception of progress on the Basin Plan,” she added.

A Lack of Tangible Progress

A review of Federal fnancial funding agreements revealed limited progress on Basin Plan projects.

Only one Resilient Rivers Program

initiative, advanced prior to last year’s Basin Plan amendments, and the Reconnecting River Country constraints project have been contracted.

“The government’s messaging doesn’t match their actions,” Ms. Lowien said.

“It’s been nearly 12 months since the Restoring Our Rivers Bill became law, yet there is little evidence of genuine progress.

Announcements don’t equal contracts, and media claims won’t deliver outcomes.”

Ms. Lowien also highlighted the absence of new contracts for key programs like the Resilient Rivers Program and the Basin Communities Fund. Both programs are central to the government’s framework to fulfll promises that buybacks would not be the sole tool used and that communities would not be left behind.

Calls for Transparency

“We urge the Minister to stop issuing political smokescreens and instead provide real

transparency on progress toward the Murray-Darling Basin Plan,” Ms. Lowien said.

Last year’s amendments to the Basin Plan included commitments for greater accountability through annual reporting to Parliament—reports that are yet to materialize.

“We’ve consistently warned governments not to waste the timeline extension,” Ms. Lowien emphasized. “Everyone in the Basin deserves better than misleading statements. What we need are regular, honest, and accurate updates on how the government’s programs are tracking.”

Conclusion

Ms. Lowien’s remarks underscore growing frustration among irrigators and Basin communities over the perceived gap between government announcements and actual progress on the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. As deadlines loom, transparency and action remain critical to ensuring the Plan delivers its intended outcomes without leaving affected communities behind.

NFF Welcomes Right to Repair Push, Urges Focus on Agricultural Machinery

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ renewed emphasis on the right to repair, outlined during his address to the Australian Business Economists. However, the NFF is urging the Federal Government to explicitly include agricultural machinery in the proposed reforms.

Treasurer Chalmers highlighted the Government’s intent to fast-track trusted international product safety standards and develop a general rightto-repair framework as part of Commonwealthled reforms.

“I expect we’ll start by fast-tracking the adoption of trusted international product safety standards and developing a general right to repair,” the Treasurer said.

Farmers Need Greater Flexibility

NFF Chief Executive Offcer Tony Mahar emphasized the importance of agricultural machinery in right-to-repair discussions, pointing to the costly downtime experienced by farmers during critical periods like harvest.

“What we need is

greater fexibility for farmers to repair their equipment, like what other countries have achieved for their farm sector. We haven’t been able to land any such arrangements so far,” Mr Mahar said.

The current system often forces farmers to rely on supplier repairers, which can lead to delays and additional costs due to long travel distances or waiting times. The NFF’s goal is to empower farmers to engage qualifed independent repairers without the risk of voiding warranties.

A Collaborative Push for Reform

The NFF’s Right to Repair Taskforce, comprising commodity councils and state farming organizations, has been advocating for policies to address these challenges. Mr Mahar expressed optimism following Treasurer Chalmers’ comments but stressed the need for frm commitments.

“We are encouraged by Treasurer Chalmers’ comments signalling a focus on right to repair but want to see a frm commitment this will include agricultural machinery,” he said.

Aligning with International Standards

Including agricultural machinery in the reforms would bring Australia in line with international benchmarks. Countries like Canada and the state of Colorado, USA, have already implemented right-to-repair laws for farm equipment. This move would also align with recommendations from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), the Productivity Commission, and leading academics. Government Support Growing

The NFF acknowledged comments from Assistant Minister for Competition Dr. Andrew Leigh MP, who recently highlighted the fnancial strain rightto-repair restrictions place on farmers.

“This is a practical and sensible solution that will support farmers, boost the farm sector’s productivity, and level the playing feld with our international competitors,” Mr Mahar said.

The NFF remains committed to working constructively with the Federal Government to ensure agricultural machinery is part of the right-to-repair framework, supporting a more productive and sustainable farm sector.

IAN ROGERS

Lot 1, Clarence Way, Tabulam

Prime Location: 87.36 Hectares

Perfect for grazing, this property comfortably supports up to 70 breeders year-round, providing an ideal setup for cattle or livestock enterprises.

Key Features:

- Water Security: Two generously sized dams provide excellent water sources for livestock.

- Premium Fencing: Equipped with electric Weston fencing, ensuring security and ease in livestock management.

- Location: Only 50km from Casino, offering the tranquility of rural living with proximity to amenities.

- Development Potential: Building entitlement available, making this property ready for your dream home or expansion plans.

- Opportunity: this property can easily be used as a hay operation

Darren Perkins 0428 660 324

532 Old Dyraaba Road, Woodview

100 Acres: Blank Canvas

Nestled just 13km away from the vibrant town of Casino, lies a sprawling 100-acre lifestyle block, awaiting the masterpiece of your dream home. Envision your sanctuary set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty, with panoramic views stretching as far as the eye can see.

This picturesque parcel of land offers an unparalleled canvas for you to design your ideal lifestyle. Whether you aspire to create a sprawling estate, a hobby farm, or simply desire space to breathe in the fresh country air, the possibilities are endless.

Convenience meets tranquility with power readily available close by, ensuring seamless integration of modern amenities into your rural retreat.

Darren Perkins 0428 660 324

Dan Clark 0435 937 331

Your Vote Can Secure the Future of Sugar Terminals

Cane grower organizations across Queensland have united in a powerful call-toaction, urging all growers who hold shares in Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) to make their voices heard at the upcoming AGM on 20 November 2024. This critical vote will determine the future direction of the industry’s vital sugar terminal assets.

Supported by CANEGROWERS

Queensland, QCAR, the Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA), AgForce Cane, and Kalamia Cane Growers, this united front represents over 90% of Queensland’s sugarcane growers, emphasizing the importance of strong grower representation on the STL Board.

Growers’ Voice Is Crucial

“Our sugar terminals are the cornerstone of Australia’s sugar export industry, with 85% of production destined for international markets,” said CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens. “These terminals, largely funded by growers, are critical for reliable, cost-effective delivery of high-quality sugar to global markets. We need grower-directors who will fercely protect these assets.”

He stressed the importance of electing directors with the expertise, experience, and passion to represent growers’ interests effectively. “Your vote ensures we secure strong leadership to safeguard the future of the industry,” Menkens added.

Industry Solidarity and Leadership

The industry’s leading organizations

have voiced their unanimous support for Paul Schembri, a veteran advocate with a distinguished 40-year career defending growers’ rights. However, both candidates—Paul Schembri and Troy Apps—bring extensive experience and commitment to the table.

Paul Schembri, former CANEGROWERS Chairman, has been pivotal in securing grower choice in marketing and developing an industry code of conduct, ensuring fair treatment for growers. Troy Apps, a fourth-generation sugarcane farmer, is recognized for his innovative contributions and commitment to maintaining and enhancing industry assets.

The Stakes Have Never Been Higher

Key grower

representatives highlighted the urgency of this election:

• Don Murday, ACFA Chairman, called on growers to act decisively. “This is your opportunity to ensure our industry is represented at the highest level. Complacency is not an option.”

• Christian Lago, QCAR Chairman, pointed to recent industry challenges, such as the termination of the Operating Agreement with Queensland Sugar Limited without proper consultation. “We must stand united against any plans that could compromise the integrity of our terminals,” he said.

• Robert Malaponte, KCGOL Chairman, emphasized the signifcance of collective action. “These multibillion-dollar assets belong to us. Let’s ensure their protection and sustainability through

strong, experienced leadership.”

How to Vote

All G-class shareholders are urged to vote either in person at the AGM or by proxy. Votes must be submitted to Link Market Services in Sydney by 2pm on 18 November 2024.

The Candidates Paul Schembri

• Over 40 years of dedicated service to Queensland’s cane growers.

• Achievements include advocating for grower choice in marketing and establishing industry safeguards like the code of conduct.

• A respected leader nationally and internationally, Paul has consistently championed growers’ interests.

Troy Apps

• Fourth-generation farmer with deep industry roots and a history of innovation.

• Developed the

world’s frst round bale accumulator system and led efforts to sustain sugarcane farming on the Sunshine Coast post-mill closures.

• Brings a blend of hands-on farming experience and business acumen to the table.

Why Your Vote Matters

This AGM represents a defning moment for the sugarcane industry. Electing experienced, grower-focused leaders will ensure the strategic management and protection of terminals essential to the industry’s success.

By voting, you contribute to securing a sustainable, proftable future for Australian sugarcane farming.

For further information, contact your grower representative organization or visit STL’s offcial site for AGM details.

IAN ROGERS

Diverse Vegetation Offers Promising Solutions for Drought Resilience

This National Agriculture Day, tens of thousands of Australian farmers are showcasing their adaptability and commitment to sustainability through programs under the Future Drought Fund (FDF). These initiatives are helping bolster stock, pasture, and native wildlife, demonstrating innovative approaches to managing drought.

One standout example is Cindy and Steven Scott, farmers from the NSW Riverina, who are leveraging the FDF’s Drought Resilient Soils and Landscapes program to implement shelterbelts—vegetation corridors—on their property, Glen Elgin, near Henty.

The Scotts, alongside 15 other Riverina producers, have embraced established land management practices aimed at improving productivity while safeguarding natural resources. This project, spearheaded by Riverina Local Land Services with support from Sustainable Farms ANU and Soils for Life, exemplifes collaboration between farmers and

sustainable agriculture initiatives.

Shelterbelts: A Multi-Faceted Drought Solution

The Scotts have expanded their shelterbelt efforts with FDF support. Unlike traditional narrow plantings, their corridors

now span 30 metres, incorporating a mix of 70% shrubs, 30% trees, and local grasses to create connectivity across their farm.

“The main goal is to reduce wind speed,” said Steven Scott. “Thicker, deeper windbreaks protect ground cover,

reduce erosion, and ultimately improve productivity. We’re monitoring the impact on beef production to measure these benefts.”

Additionally, shelterbelts provide critical shade and cooler temperatures for livestock, particularly during dry periods, while reducing evaporation from water storage areas.

“We’ve planted shelterbelts around our main dams to minimize water loss and maintain reserves during drought,”

Mr. Scott added.

Restoring Ecosystems

The Scotts’ efforts have also revived native bird populations, enhancing local biodiversity. The corridors offer a safe haven for smaller bird species, which contribute to natural pest control by feeding on insects.

“We’ve seen a resurgence of birdlife, which may reduce our reliance on spraying,” said Cindy Scott.

The couple has partnered with Sustainable Farms to explore the broader productivity benefts of their environmental practices.

Leadership in Drought Preparedness

Matt Lowe, Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry Policy, commended the Scotts’ work as a model of innovation.

“There’s no one-sizefts-all solution for drought preparedness,” Mr. Lowe said.

“Projects like this show how sustainable land management can improve resilience, productivity, and peace of mind for farmers.”

To learn more about the Future Drought Fund, visit Future Drought Fund - DAFF.

For details on the Scotts’ shelterbelt initiatives, visit The Scotts at Glen ElginSoils For Life.

ROBERT HEYWARD

The Scott Family

Basin Announcement Big on Spin, Critical Questions Unanswered

ROBERT HEYWARD

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has expressed serious concerns over the Federal Government’s announcement regarding 1,000 responses to the southern MurrayDarling Basin open tender process. While Environment and Water Minister Tanya Plibersek emphasized the high volume of interest, the NFF asserts that vital questions remain unanswered.

NFF Water Committee Chair Malcolm Holm highlighted signifcant

issues surrounding the announcement:

• Water volume: How much water do the 1,000 responses represent, and are they confrmed tenders?

• Pricing: What prices are being requested, and how is “value for money” defned?

• Buyback confdence: What assurances exist that expressions of interest will lead to successful buybacks?

• Impact analysis: Will the Government assess and report the scope, impact, and costs of this tender round before proceeding with the next two within 12 months?

• Community impact:

How will water buybacks affect local communities and food production amidst a cost-of-living crisis?

Concerns Over Policy Hypocrisy

Mr. Holm criticized the Government’s approach, noting contradictions between addressing the cost-of-living crisis and reducing water availability for agricultural production.

“Reducing water in the system threatens the capacity of dairy, rice, and fruit and vegetable farmers, exacerbating production challenges during a critical time,”

Mr. Holm said. Unanswered

Questions and Environmental Oversights

The NFF has also questioned the Government’s broader commitments to environmental health:

• What progress has been made on installing fsh ladders at Menindee and preventing fsh kills?

• Were alternative solutions from the NFF’s 1,000-gigalitre submission (July 2023) considered?

• What strategic measures are being implemented to optimize environmental water use?

Mr. Holm accused the Government of

prioritizing political optics over meaningful action.

“It seems more about grandstanding than achieving real environmental outcomes. The rhetoric is undermining a healthier Murray-Darling Basin and the resilience of regional communities.”

Call for Comprehensive Reviews

The NFF has repeatedly sought a review of environmental water usage effectiveness to identify areas for improvement. However, the lack of response from the Government has left critical concerns

unaddressed, even as further buyback rounds are launched.

“Instead of answering these important questions, the Government continues with rapid-fre buybacks. We urge them to go beyond buybacks and focus on creating lasting environmental outcomes for our river systems,”

Mr. Holm concluded.

The NFF remains committed to holding the Government accountable and advocating for sustainable solutions for the Murray-Darling Basin.

Celebrating the Winners of the Biosecurity Music Competition

IAN ROGERS

Bulman School from the Big Rivers region of the Northern Territory has claimed the $2,500 prize in the School Award category of this year’s Northern Australia People Capacity and Response Network (NAPCaRN) Caring for Country Music Competition.

The school’s entry impressed judges with its creative approach to promoting key land management practices and encouraging communities to stay vigilant against pests and diseases, embodying the spirit of biosecurity awareness.

Standout Winners

• Group & Most Innovative and Creative Award: Talking Biosecurity, written by Taylah Debney and Atom Ab-Dalla and performed by Tay Tantra and Blvxk Bird, took home both awards for its exceptional creativity and innovation in delivering biosecurity messaging.

• People’s Choice Award: Audrey Petschel and Ayla Jonston were recognized for their song That’s What Makes Us Unique, which resonated with audiences for its engaging and heartfelt message.

• Individual Award: Resin Moon (Dave Crowe) won $1,500 for Counting On You. His entry highlighted the

importance of future education pathways and opportunities in biosecurity, showcasing the critical role biosecurity plays in protecting culture, industry, and the environment.

Judging Criteria and Panel

Entries were evaluated on creativity, originality, lyrics, melody, and

alignment with biosecurity messaging and goals.

The judging panel featured representatives from:

• Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF)

• NAPCaRN

• MusicNT

• Australasian

Performing Right Association Limited (APRA)

• Australasian

Mechanical Copyright Owners Society (AMCOS)

• Northern Territory Department of Agriculture and Fisheries

Recognizing Talent and Effort

Deputy Secretary of Biosecurity, Operations and Compliance, Justine Saunders, praised the participants for their dedication to raising awareness of biosecurity responsibilities.

“It has been incredible to see a musical focus on connecting people with biosecurity messaging in a fun, interactive, and engaging way,” Ms. Saunders said.

“I’m excited to

see how next year’s competition will inspire more creative approaches to increasing awareness about biosecurity and its impact on lifestyle, culture, and industry in the event of an incursion.”

Ms. Saunders also highlighted the potential for expanding the competition across northern Australia, building on its success in the Northern Territory.

Learn More

For more information on the competition and how it’s making an impact, visit Caring for Country – Music Competition.

REGINALD

GEORGE ARMSTRONG

18.06.1957 ~ 08.11.2024

Passed away a er a long battle with illness. Late of Ballina and formerly of Casino. Son of Nita & George (dec). Much loved and respected brother and brother-in-law of Jane & John, Garry & Desley and Pauline. Father of Samantha and Kelly. A loved and cherished uncle and great uncle. Fondly remembered by his family and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Reg’s Funeral Service to be held at Windara, 253 Sextonville Road Casino on FRIDAY (November 29, 2024) commencing 10.30am. A er the Service a private cremation will take place.

02 6686 7036

COLIN WILLIAM

Late of Ballina. Passed away peacefully at Ballina District Hospital on Tuesday 12th November 2024, aged 82. Cherished brother of Gwen, Shirley, Richard and Elaine. Beloved uncle of Susan, Marilyn, Jennifer, Judith, Gillian, Lindy, Deborah, David, Anthony, Ann, Michael, Louise and Matthew.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Colin’s Funeral Service to be held in the Rainbow Chapel, Rainbow Avenue Ballina on FRIDAY (November 22, 2024) commencing at 10.30am. Following the service a private cremation will be held.

02 6686 7036

Passed away peacefully at St, Joseph’s Nursing Home, East Lismore, aged 101 years. Loved wife of Eric (dec’d). Adored mother & mother in-law of Maureen & Peter Peppernell, John, and Karen & David Goldsmith. Cherished Nana to her Grandchildren and Great grandchildren. Loved by the extended Antoniolli and Milgate families

For details of the Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul for Marjorie will be advised at www.binney.com.au

Memoriam The Family Of Eileen Melling

Would like to thank family and friends who attended her funeral our family very much appreciates all your prayers, thoughts, cards and flowers Darry & Barbara & their families

Ballina

Funeral Notice

Warnings

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Cloudy. High chance of showers in the north, medium chance elsewhere. Winds southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h.

Thursday. Cloudy. Medium chance of showers. Winds southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h.

Northern Tablelands District: Cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Winds easterly 20 to 30 km/h.

Thursday. Cloudy. Medium chance of showers. Winds east to southeasterly 20 to 30 km/h.

New South Wales:

Isolated showers about the east and northern ranges and slopes, with the chance of a storm about the far northern inland during the afternoon and early evening. Possible moderate falls about the far northeast. Daytime temperatures below average along the coast and northern inland, slightly above average about the Alpine, near average elsewhere. South to southeasterly winds, tending east to southeasterly along the ranges and slopes.

Thursday. Isolated showers about the east and northern inland. Daytime temperatures below average along the coast and northern inland, slightly above average about the Alpine, near average elsewhere. South to southeasterly winds, tending east to southeasterly along the ranges and slopes.

Byron Coast: Winds: Easterly 10 to 15 knots turning southeasterly 15 to 20 knots during the morning. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore north of Coffs Harbour. 1st Swell: Easterly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. 2nd Swell: Southerly around 1 metre. Weather: Cloudy. Coffs Coast: Winds: Easterly 10 to 15 knots turning southeasterly 15 to 20 knots during the morning. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore north of Coffs Harbour. 1st Swell: Easterly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. 2nd Swell: Southerly around 1 metre. Weather: Cloudy. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Easterly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Easterly around 1 metre. Weather: Partly cloudy. 60% chance of showers.

The hour of reckoning has arrived for the leading two teams of the Clarence River Cricket Association frst grade competition.

South Services/ Westlawn have ridden their luck hard to the top of the table, but will be tested when they meet premiers Harwood, who have been clinical in dismantling all three opponents so far this season.

In the only play in frst grade on Saturday, Tucabia fought off Harwood’s bid for outright points with the assistance of a late start, stubborn batting and a benign playing surface.

Resuming at 7/27 chasing 344 for a win, Tucabia had no chance result and resorted to the stonewalling to avoid an outright loss.

Wet weather made the ground unsuitable for play immediately and Tucabia’s batters dug in.

Led by the most stubborn of efforts from Derek Woods who batted

BALLINA MAHJONG RESULTS – 15TH NOVEMBER 2024

Top Players:

1. Carol Meyer

2. Ann Hewett

3. Barbara Ellan

4. Pauline Kearney

5. Joy Lowien

Remaining Placings:

6. Lesley Richie

7. Lorna Simpson

8. Susan Scott

9. Susan Allan

10. Vanessa Reynolds

11. Lynda Lovett

12. Margaret Bryant

13. Jan Small

14. Pam Farrell & Pauline

Bolte

16. Sally Lowry

17. Kath Hubbard

18. Ronda Taylor

19. Coral Lavelle & Jan

Boardman

21. Valda McLerie

22. Gladys D’Anna

23. Shirley Atkinson

24. Jan Henley

25. Lisa Wong

26. Jane Fenech & Wendy

Thornton

28. Cindy Smith & Jenny

for around 40 of those overs for 9no, Tucabia slowed the game to a crawl.

When they were dismissed for 47, gathered from 47.5 overs, there was time for just 15 overs in the second innings.

Woods kept the pads on and crawled to 8 before he fell lbw to leg spinner

Jacob McMahon, who had earlier snared his second fve-wicket haul for the season with the sensational fgures of 5/4 from 13.5 overs.

Harwood’s opponents on Saturday, Souths/ Westlawn have enjoyed outrageous good fortune so far.

In round 1 they were 8/62 chasing Lawrence’s total of 162 when rain stopped play, forcing a draw.

Next game they collapsed for 80 chasing Coutts Crossing’s 112, then pulled out a second innings miracle to get outright points.

Their bowlers routed Coutts for 31 and they staggered to 5/64 to get the chocolates. Last game was

Lang

30. Diana Auret Join Us for Mahjong!

Mahjong is held at the Ballina Bridge Club every Friday at 12:30 PM.

New players are welcome! For more information, contact Shirley at 0423 384 647.

CASINO SOCIAL GOLF RESULTS – 17 NOVEMBER 2024

Last Sunday’s social golf event saw Ray Ruttley emerge victorious with a Stableford score of 22 points. Ray also claimed the Putting Trophy with an impressive 16 putts.

The Players’ Draw was won by S. Ensby. Nearest to the Pin

Winners:

• 2nd, 4th, & 8th holes: T. Jenkins

• 5th & 18th holes: Vinny

• 17th hole: R. Ruttley

Next Sunday’s event, proudly sponsored by

DIY Home Timber & Hardware Casino, is yet to

Souths/Westlawn’s most convincing effort, dismissing GDSC Easts for 74 and racing to 5/152 at stumps.

But their luck still held as midweek storms washed limited Harwood to a frst innings win and washed out Lawrence and Coutts Crossing.

Harwood has needed no such luck.

They amassed 8d/254 against Coutts in round 1 and were two wickets away from an outright when time ran out.

In game two it was nearly the same story, but this time they cracked 300 in their frst innings despite a top order slump.

On the face of it, Harwood go into Saturday’s game at the neutral venue of Ulmarra Showground as unbackable favourites. Their frst drop Coby Tabor has scored two centuries in three games and Harwood has another centurion in Troy Turner.

Ace all rounder and skipper Ben McMahon has chipped in with runs and wickets, showing

be confrmed. Visitors are warmly invited to join the competition, with tee-off times between 6:30 am and 7:30 am.

CASINO WOMEN’S BOWLS RESULTS

Helen Lavelle has been crowned the Major Singles Club Champion for 2024 and earned the prestigious title of Queen of the Green. Congratulations, Helen, on this remarkable achievement!

In the social bowls played on Wednesday, 13 November, the results were as follows:

• Tanya Maxwell, Jan Cooke, and Helen Lavelle defeated Carmel Doyle, Judy Carthew, and Mary Mead. Congratulations to Helen’s team for being the Winners of the Day!

Rink Winners:

• Annette James, Raelene Skirrey, and Denise Skinner defeated Maria Hellyar, Julie Creighton, and Ivy Watson.

enough form to suggest a big one is not far away.

And brother Jacob has been devastating with his leg breaks, snaring 17 wickets including a match winning 7/15 against Coutts.

Will the sharp point of Harwood’s bowling and batting burst the Souths/ Westlawn bubble?

On paper you would say Harwood have too many big guns, but that analysis ignores the importance of self-belief and momentum.

While luck has helped them, Souths/Westlawn have established some momentum.

They turned a lucky escape into outright points in game two and there was a ruthless feel to the way they crushed Easts after bowling them

Well done to all players for their efforts and sportsmanship!

CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB SPORTS RESULTS

Association Croquet

• P. Waters 13 def. G. Drew 11

Club Championships –Handicap Singles Final

• G. Porter 26 def. R. Chapman 14

Ricochet Croquet

• N. Watts & D. Scott 10 def. J. Hannigan & R. Chapman 9

• P. Scott & J. Bate 10 def. R. Allen & R. Poynting 9

• N. Barnes & B. Bill 17 def. M. Field 13

• H. Young 12 def. A. Mangan 9

• J. Doust & M. Russell 9 def. G. Kerr & B. Wellings 6

• P. Waters & N. Poynting 15 def. R. Chapman & G. Drew 5

• B. Bill 16 def. N. Watts 16 (tie resolved by additional play)

out cheaply in the frst innings.

With opening bowler Adrian Boyd back on the paddock and Nathan Blanch and Dylan Cleaver in the bowling attack, they can be dangerous if things go their way.

Souths/Westlawn’s batting is notoriously brittle and it often feels like the fall of a key wicket can start an avalanche.

They’ve escaped punishment so far this season, but Harwood is unlikely to be as generous.

In other games Lawrence takes on Easts at Lower Fisher Turf hoping their luck returns.

After missing out against Souths/Westlawn in game one, they

• M. Russell & P. Bolte

13 def. R. Poynting & J. Doust 9

Tournaments Queensland Association Open Doubles Final:

1. M. Gidding & C. Borlase

2. D. Luxmore & T. McCallum

3. B. Fleming & L. Fleming

4. A. Matthews & G. Bury

Consolation Final:

1. L. David & R. Allen

2. W. Silk & H. Knight

3. J. Lynch & B. Ford

4. C. Williamson & R. Newsham

New Players Welcome We warmly invite new players to join and enjoy the game of croquet.

CORAKI VETERANS GOLF RESULTS

– THURSDAY, 14 NOVEMBER 2024

A strong turnout of 49 golfers took to the course for this week’s event.

Congratulations to the following winners:

smacked Tucabia by nearly 100 runs in game 2.

But last weekend’s rain robbed them of solid shot at frst innings points against Coutts.

At Ellem Oval Tucabia and Coutts have a chance to regroup after mixed starts to the season.

Tucabia started with a win against Easts but have been shaky ever since.

Coutts are winless, but were close against Souths and have put together a few good sessions with bat and ball, without being consistent.

Tucabia must erase the trauma of the last game against Harwood when their bowlers and batters were brutally exposed.

• Club Handicap Ham Winner: S. Smith

• Vets Ham Winner: S. Reddell

• 2nd Place: M. Buggy

• 3rd Place: W. Lunnon

• Free Game Winner: C. Cupitt

Chicken/Ball Winners:

• J. Willy

• J. Sauer

• D. Knox

• J. Kelly • P. Bruggy • G. Flaherty

• P. Brophy

• R. Webber

• S. Toms

• L. Bonner

Nearest to Pins:

• 3rd/12th holes: T. McBurney

• 6th/15th holes: N. Cupitt

TIM HOWARD

RIGHT: Veteran seamer Nathan Blanch beats the edge when Souths and Harwood met a little over a year ago. On Saturday they clash as the top two teams in the competition for season 2024-25.

The highly anticipated Northern NSW qualifer for the Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle (ABB) is set to ignite the surf this Saturday in Coffs Harbour. Twelve elite boardrider clubs from the region will compete fercely for a coveted spot in the Grand Final, scheduled for early next year at the iconic Burleigh Heads, QLD.

Surfng NSW Contest Director Corey Ross expressed excitement about the event, following a weatherrelated postponement earlier this season. “We are looking forward to heading up to Coffs for the ABB Northern NSW regional qualifer. Coffs

provides us with plenty of options, so we can’t wait to run. It’s going to be a great day of surfng and club spirit!”

A Showcase of Talent and Rivalry

The competition features clubs from across Northern NSW, including Woolgoolga, Le-Ba (Lennox/Ballina), Byron Bay, Black Rocks, Port Macquarie, Kingscliff, Boomerang, Cabarita, Angourie, Saltwater, Sawtell, and host club Coffs Harbour Boardriders.

Last year’s winners, Coffs Harbour Boardriders, are determined to defend their title against formidable competition, particularly three-time champions Le-Ba, who are eager to reclaim the crown.

Coffs Harbour Boardriders Team

Captain Lee Winkler said: “Our team is a mix of experience and youth. We are excited to have our supporters at our home break. It’s such an advantage to have the loudest cheers, and a bit of local knowledge is always good. Bring on Saturday!”

Location and Event

Details

The primary competition venue is Macauleys Beach, with backup locations including Park Beach, Gallows, and Diggers Beach. Competitors and fans are encouraged to monitor updates from Surfng Australia and Surfng NSW social media channels, as the confrmed location and running order will

be announced on the morning of the event.

Hyundai ABB Series 12 Key Dates

The Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Series 12 spans across eight regional events before culminating in the Grand Final on March 8-9, 2025, at Burleigh Heads, QLD.

Key dates include:

• WA Qualifer – Sep 14 at Trigg Beach, WA

• VIC Qualifer – Oct 6 at Phillip Island, VIC

• QLD Qualifer – Oct 12 at Sunshine Coast, QLD

• South Australia Qualifer – Oct 19 at Fleurieu Peninsula, SA

• Tasmania Qualifer –Oct 26 at Clifton Beach, TAS

• NSW South Qualifer – Nov 2 at Wollongong, NSW

IAN ROGERS

Lismore City Council is excited to announce the inaugural Legends of Cricket Golf Day, scheduled for February 14, 2025, at the Lismore Workers Golf Club. This unique event offers businesses the opportunity to sponsor a hole or assemble a team to play alongside cricket legends, competing for the title of champion on the greens.

Mayor Steve Krieg expressed enthusiasm for

• NSW Central Qualifer – Nov 9 at North Narrabeen, NSW

• NSW North Qualifer – Nov 16 at Coffs Harbour, NSW

About the Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle

The ABB is the country’s largest and most prestigious boardriders event, featuring over 230 clubs competing across world-class venues like Burleigh Heads. The Grand Final now includes 42 clubs, expanded from 24 in previous years, with over $115,000 in total prize money at stake throughout the series.

This grassroots phenomenon has played a pivotal role in shaping Australia’s competitive surfng legacy, fostering

the event, stating, “This is an amazing sporting event for Lismore. The calibre of legendary cricket players who donated their time to play is incredible.”

The Legends of Cricket Golf Day aims to bring together the community and local businesses in a day of sport and camaraderie. Participants will have the chance to engage with renowned cricket fgures in a relaxed golf setting, fostering connections and celebrating

communities that nurture emerging talent into future World Champions.

Supported by Leading Partners

The Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle is proudly presented by Hyundai, alongside support from Jim Beam, ACCIONA, Ruffe Rustic Foods, BC™ Protein Snacks, Kennards Hire, Oakley, Dometic, Boost Mobile, Blackroll, and Surfers for Climate.

The Grand Final is supported by Experience Gold Coast and the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.

For updates and more details, visit Surfng Australia’s offcial website and social media channels.

Lismore’s vibrant sporting culture. For businesses interested in sponsorship or team participation, please contact Lismore City Council’s events department for more information.

IAN ROGERS

Harry O’Brien from Le-Ba Boardriders competing last year. Credit: Kyle Chapman

With the arrival of summer, the sound of leather on willow can be heard echoing across the grassy playing felds of the nation. Or is that willow on leather?

Either way, since 1970 I’ve followed the fortunes of the Australian cricket team, starting with the birth of the Ian Chappell era, when the incumbent captain William Morris Lawry was unceremoniously informed of his dumping not by the selectors, but, by a radio broadcast.

Since the very frst Test match way back in 1877, Australia’s traditional rivals have been the mother country England, however, in recent times the battles with the cricketing superpower of India have grabbed fans and the media’s attention.

The Indians frst toured this country in the summer of 1947-48 with Bradman, starved of cricket because of

WWII, mauling them for 715 runs and Australia victorious 4-0 in the fve Test match series.

India toured Australia another ten times without success, before they fnally broke through with a 2-1 series win in the summer of 2018-19. That series was also the frst time Test cricket was played at the newly built Perth Stadium, a modern multipurpose arena that replaced the old WACA ground and the venue for the frst Test of this much anticipated 2024-25 series.

Although Australia convincingly defeated India in the fnal of the World Test Championship (WTC) at The Oval last year, our top order batting going into this opening match appears as underdone as a blue steak on the backyard barbecue.

Nathan McSweeney, with his solid technique and temperament, is a commendable choice at opener to replace the recently retired David Warner, however, apart from him and

wicketkeeper Alex Carey, no other batter in the top seven has scored any decent runs in the Sheffeld Shield.

With no real batting form to mention and given the right conditions, a bowler of the class of India’s Jasprit Bumrah, might just run through our shaky batting lineup faster than a spicy hot Indian curry.

Also of concern, is the fact this is one of the oldest Australian sides in recent times with the 25-year-old debutant McSweeney, the only player under thirty years of age.

On the back of a Black Cap whitewash at home, India have their own issues going through a team rebuild while carrying the waning form of Virat Kohli, however, their rising superstar Yashasvi Jaiswal should enjoy the pace and bounce of Australian pitches and get amongst the runs.

At home India’s two premier spinners, Ravichandran Ashwin

and Ravindra Jadeja, thrive on their turning tracks, but, they won’t receive the same assistance from our Australian wickets where, over the fve days of a Test match, there should be no signifcant deterioration.

The home ground advantage should mean something, so I’m tipping an Australian series win, however, I do miss the days of the Chappell era and Kerry Packer’s World Series Cricket (WSC) from my youth.

Packer and WSC revolutionised the game with cricket under lights, drop in pitches, coloured outfts and the catchy sounds of “C’mon Aussie C’mon” emanating out of our television sets as we waited with great anticipation for the score to reach 2-222, just so we could hear Richie Benaud repeat it on air.

As much as Richie is sadly missed as a commentator, we still have Kerry O’Keeffe, don’t we?

On Day 2 the Casino

RSM Cavaliers Cricket Club resumed at 0/0, chasing 215 runs set by Alstonville in Round 4 of the FNCCC 1st grade competition.

With the Cauldron in pristine condition the stage was set for the young Cavaliers to step up against the spirited Alstonville attack.

It did not take long before the freworks erupted with young Miller Scully (59 runs from 52 balls) quickly fnding his mojo as he put the bowlers to the sword in a swashbuckling innings which had the crowd utterly entertained.

which rocketed to the boundary.

The Cavaliers were in a commanding position when Mulcahy was dismissed with the score at 2/124. But as is often the case Alstonville fought back, claiming a couple of cheap wickets to put themselves back into the contest at 4/125.

This brought together the classy combination of captain Damien Vidler (48no runs from 48 balls) and the in-form Olly Walker (35 runs from 71 balls).

Rainbow Dragons, Lennox Head-Ballina, wrapped up 2024 with a remarkable three weeks of competition at the Currumbin Regatta and the Pan Pacifc Masters Games (PanPacs) on the Gold Coast.

At Currumbin, 38 members raced, with nine making their regatta debut. The team secured top placements: 1st in the Breast Cancer Survivors

200m, and 3rd in both the Mixed and Men’s 20s 200m and Mixed 20s 1km turn races.

The next week, 11 Rainbow members joined fve Port Macquarie “Maroro” paddlers for their frst-ever club outrigger competition, at PanPacs. Amidst choppy conditions the Rainbow Region team held their own, dodging outrigger canoes, and recreational watercraft, to achieved 1st in the Men’s OC2

9km relay and 2nd in the Women’s OC1 and OC2 relays. The team also excelled in the OC6 category, posting competitive times.

Then Rainbow Dragons returned to PanPacs for the dragon boat events with 44 paddlers competing against teams from Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. Rainbows had fantastic results with 1st in the Men’s 55+ 500m and 200m sprints and 3rd in the Women’s 40+ 500m

10s boat. The Mixed 55+ crew also placed 3rd in the 4.8 km ‘Around the Island’ race which presented a challenge to steerer’s as they navigated the course, collecting fags along the way.

Club President Lu Cooney said ‘The Club’s results are especially impressive, considering many of the other teams were combined clubs, while the Rainbows competed as a ‘stand alone club’.

As Scully went about plundering the attack he was well supported by Jed Mulcahy (41 runs from 86 balls) who quietly accumulated the runs in a wellconstructed, patient innings.

When Scully was out in the 15th over the Cavaliers were in the box seat at 1/77.

Mulcahy was joined at the crease by Mitch Duddy (19 runs from 49 balls) and the guys continued to keep the scoreboard ticking over. Duddy looked in fne form and played one of the shots of the day, with a fat bat punch pull shot

With Alstonville up and about in the feld, Vidler and Walker went about steering the Cavaliers home through some high- quality cricket, pinching several cheeky singles as well as playing some classy shots.

Unfortunately, the 87- run partnership was ended when Walker was dismissed with just 4 runs required for victory.

The Cavaliers fnished at 5/218 from 52 overs to take a confdence boosting victory in a clinical display.

Next week the Cavaliers are away playing against Tintenbar East Ballina in a 1-day fxture, which is always a tight contest.

MONICA WILCOX

Rainbow Dragons Mens Gold Medalist

Some Rainbow Dragons

7th September - (two course dinner and show) An unforgettable night of Medieval mirth and merriment!

Come and enjoy a Brilliant Night of Medieval Fun & Feasting!

7th September - (two course dinner and show) An unforgettable night of Medieval mirth and merriment!

Come and enjoy a Brilliant Night of Medieval Fun & Feasting!