INSIDE and Out
Tree change grows roots
“REGIONAL
AUSTRALIA IS TRULY THE NATION’S NEW FRONTIER.”
That is how Regional Australia Institute CEO Liz Ritchie has summarised the results of the latest studies of migration across Australia. Demand is also evidenced by how long a property spends on the market. In August 2021 it was an average of just 30 days, far below the state-average of 44 days that same month.
And the Murray River and Edward River councils are primed to take full advantage.
RAI’s lastest Regional Movers Index report, released in December 2024, indicates regional Australia is the “destination of choice”, with city dwellers continuing to relocate out of metropolitan areas while regional Australians are increasingly staying put.
Ms Ritchie, who grew up in Deniliquin, said data from the September 2024 quarter report shows city-to-regional relocations are now sitting at 19.8 per cent above the pre-COVID average and 1.8 per cent above the average recorded during the height of lockdowns.
“In contrast, the inter-regional migration index - which tracks regional to regional relocations - has fallen by
5.1 per cent, suggesting that more regional residents are content to stay where they are,” Ms Ritchie said.
“With the continuing strong jobs market across regional Australia, increasing city property prices and ongoing cost-of-living pressures, it’s no surprise the regions remain desirable.
“The net migration index, measuring the population flow into regional Australia, is now sitting at its highest level since March 2022, and is 80 per cent above the preCOVID average.
“It’s vital this demographic shift is recognised, and regional communities are provided with the infrastructure, services and support they need.
“As a nation, we must acknowledge that we are in a new era of migration where regional Australia is at the forefront.“
Ms Ritchie said given the regions’ ongoing strong growth, it was vital that they remained top-of-mind for decisionmakers.
“There are so many opportunities in our regional communities, but likewise we know there are challenges.
“Housing, for example, remains a key ongoing concern in many communities.
“Regional Australia is growing and for that to continue we need adequate foundations. The time to lay them is now.”
Tapping in to this trend, Murray River Council has recently launched a brand-new lifestyle and investment website designed to showcase everything the area has to offer.
It is called Live Work Invest. Learn more by going to https://investrivercountry.com.au/.
Likewise, Edward River Council continues to promote itself as a relocation destination, and working through the elements of its Growth Strategy to drive that migration. Learn more by going to https://www.countrychange.com. au/our-places/edward-river-council.
What’s new…
Maurice Kain fabrics, Menadue’s Floor Coverings, see instore for pricing.
‘Swinton’ Wall Art, 100cm x 75cm Harvey Norman, Deniliquin, $69.
Locally made rough sawn reclaimed Murray Pine Mirror and Easel, edith elsie, $350.
Glass water planter, Deniliquin Florist, $45.
Aruba 5 Seater Wicker Lounge Setting with Olefin Cushions, Dahlsens Mitre 10 Deniliquin, $1999.
Assorted vases, Leaves & Vines, from $8.99.
Lemon plates, edith elsie, from $10.
Canningvale Royal Splendour 6 piece Towel Set, Deniliquin Florist Gifts & More, $120.
Ceramic Cyprus Vase Matte Light Pink, Deniliquin Florist Gifts & More, $15.
Lisa Pollock Eco Friendly Bamboo Medium Platter, Leaves & Vines, $45.
Terrazzo Side Table 800mm, Dahlsens Mitre 10 Deniliquin, $199.
Anna Chandler Design homewares, edith elsie, from $10.
Karndean Design Flooring River Spotted Gum, Menadue’s Floor Coverings, Deniliquin. See instore for pricing.
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven, Harvey Norman, Deniliquin, $549.
L’Avenue 300 Thread Count Sheet Sets, Harvey Norman Deniliquin, from $89.
‘Go Fish’ acryclic on canvas framed by Rachel Braybon Art, edith elsie, $1400.
Pools made ezy
POOL EZY HAS BUILT A STELLAR REPUTATION FOR POOL INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE IN ECHUCA, WHICH HAS NOW EXPANDED TO DENILIQUIN.
While the Pool Ezy team has serviced the Deniliquin region - and other regionsfor some time, in 2024 it set up a more permanent retail home in the Deni CBD.
Pool Ezy transforms your pool or spa dreams into reality, taking care of all the maintenance hassles for you. The team install pools built by Conquests Pools in Shepparton and spas from Sapphire Spas.
Pool Ezy offers a diverse range of pools, from compact 4m plunge pools to expansive 14m lap pools, catering to every space and preference.
When it comes to spas, the range goes from a compact two-person spa all the way up to a 6m swim spa.
There is a broad range of pool and spa products, including options such as self-cleaning and heating, the teams spa products include different heating options, lounge seats and water features.
Whether you’re a young family or enjoying retirement, Pool Ezy tailors pool and spa installations to suit your specific needs and life stage. Pool Ezy have experience, expertise and the know-how to get you sorted.
Pool Ezy sales manager Ryan Quirk said the average size pool for a residential block is 8m, making it one of the
most popular and versatile sized pools. On larger rural properties, pools can stretch out to 10m to 14m.
Whatever space you have available, Pool Ezy can cater for everything from the smallest to the largest. They can also help with indoor or outdoor installations.
Supplying and installing pools is only one part of the business. The other is servicing and maintaining pools and spas, which is an important part of making sure you’re ready to swim at all times.
Covering the area from Echuca Moama to Rochester, Deniliquin and Cohuna, Pool Ezy can come to you to ensure your pool and spa are safe to swim and relax in all-year-round.
Pool Ezy has a large store in Echuca and Deniliquin for all your water testing and chemical needs, but can also bring them to you, if needed, as part of its service.
Pool Ezy’s Deniliquin store is located at 27 Napier Street, Deniliquin. It is open 10am to 4pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and 9am to 12pm every second Saturday.
For all enquiries, phone (03) 5482 5100, email info@ poolezy.com.au or visit http://www.poolezy.com.au/.
Create a warm, playful space
AS WE STEP INTO 2025, HOME DECOR TRENDS ARE ABOUT MORE THAN JUST AESTHETICS — THEY’RE ABOUT CREATING A SPACE THAT TELLS YOUR STORY.
Home decor in 2025 is all about creating spaces that feel warm, personal, and timeless. From earthy tones and vintage charm to bold statements and playful touches, this year’s trends are designed to help you craft a home that tells your unique story. Here’s a look at the top trends making waves in interiors—and how you can bring them to life in your space.
Nature-Inspired Colours and Textures
Earthy tones like olive green, terracotta, mustard yellow, and sandy beige are taking centre stage, paired with natural materials like rattan, timber, and raw linen. These colours and textures evoke a sense of calm and balance, transforming any room into a serene retreat.
To embrace this trend, consider furniture with a raw, unfinished look, soft linen curtains, and handmade ceramics. Greenery is also key—think large indoor plants like monstera or olive trees to bring a touch of the outdoors in.
Playful Vintage Pieces
Vintage is back, but this time it’s all about mixing eras to create a unique, eclectic aesthetic. Mid-century modern furniture, retro-inspired glassware, and nostalgic patterns are perfect for adding depth and character to your home. Balance vintage finds with modern accents—pair a midcentury armchair with a sleek floor lamp or retro glasses
with contemporary table settings. This blend keeps your space feeling fresh and stylish.
The “Fruit Bowl Aesthetic”
One of the more whimsical trends this year is fruitthemed decor. Ornamental apples, pears, and even tomatoes are popping up in kitchens and dining rooms, adding vibrant colour and playful charm.
Incorporate this trend with decorative fruit pieces, vintage fruit baskets, or even art prints featuring fruit motifs. This touch of quirkiness adds a lively, cheerful element to any space.
Art as the Focal Point
Statement artwork is taking centre stage in 2025. Oversized abstract paintings, gallery walls, and sculptures are no longer finishing touches—they’re the focal point. To bring this trend into your home, invest in a bold piece that resonates with you. Whether it’s a large canvas or a collection of smaller works, art can anchor a room and reflect your personal style.
Maximalist Layers
Minimalism is making way for maximalism, where layering textures, patterns, and styles creates a rich and inviting aesthetic. Think bold rugs, velvet cushions, patterned throws, and layered lighting.
When embracing maximalism, balance is key. Choose a cohesive colour palette and layer different textures within that scheme to avoid overwhelming the space. This trend is all about creating depth and interest while keeping the overall look intentional.
Sustainable and Ethical Design
Sustainability is at the forefront of home decor, with more people seeking eco-friendly and ethically sourced items. Repurposing vintage furniture, choosing pieces made from sustainable materials, and supporting local artisans are all ways to embrace this trend.
Investing in quality, timeless pieces rather than fast furniture not only benefits the planet but also helps create a home with lasting style and meaning.
Bringing It All Together
The beauty of this year’s trends lies in their flexibility. Whether you lean towards earthy tones, bold artwork, or playful vintage finds, each trend allows you to create a home that reflects your personality and lifestyle.
For those looking to bring these ideas to life, edith elsie in Deniliquin is a treasure trove of inspiration. Located at 283 Cressy Street, this charming store offers a curated collection of vintage treasures, fruit-themed decor, and original art by local creatives. It’s the perfect place to discover unique pieces that will make your home as personal and distinctive as you are.
Switch to induction
THE KITCHEN IS OFTEN REFERRED TO AS THE HEART OF THE HOME, BUT WHAT POWERS YOUR HEART?
These days, it’s not even as simple as thinking gas or electric.
The team at Harvey Norman Deniliquin say a new trend in kitchens is induction. They say people are switching from gas in big numbers as the technology continues to improve.
Making the switch in your home from gas to induction cooking with Harvey Norman Deniliquin has several benefits.
Faster cooking is one of the favoured points of those converting to induction. An induction cook top will heat up a lot faster, which saves time when you have a hungry hoard to feed.
Worried about the quick heat burning your food? Don’t be. Induction cooking offers a far more precise temperature control, giving you the most consistent cooking results every time.
There is also no need to continue to replenish gas supplies. You only need electricity, making it a convenient option for many homes.
Safety is another positive to keep in mind when considering the change over from gas, or any other type of cooking option, to induction.
Induction works by heating up the pan. While the cook top itself will still be hot, the risk of burning yourself is greatly reduced compared to other cook top types. Some induction cook tops will turn themselves off once the pan has been removed from it too, reducing the potential of fires starting.
Still not sure? Pop in and the Harvey Norman team can show you the growing range of induction appliances available.
They can also provide some guidance on other appliances, and anything you may need for your kitchen upgrades.
Harvey Norman Deniliquin stocks all the best quality and performing brands for kitchen appliances and whitegoods, including Electrolux, Fisher & Paykel, Smeg and Bosch.
Reliability, performance and customer experience are some of the hallmarks of Harvey Norman Deniliquin and their stock and products.
Uplifting and soothing colours
A FRESH COAT OF PAINT IS ONE OF THE QUICKEST WAYS TO MAKE A CHANGE TO YOUR HOME OR OFFICE SPACE IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO MIX THINGS UP IN 2025.
But with so many brands, textures and colours to choose from, how do you decide which way to go?
Luckily, the top paint brands know it can be an overwhelming decision and enlist experts to present you with colour trend advice to aid in your selection.
So your first decision is to decide which paint brand you prefer. From there, you can research that brand’s bestsellers, colour palette predictions and tips on how to get the best out of the product.
Dahlsen Mitre 10 stocks a number of top brands, with Accent, Dulux and Wattyl among the most popular. And for decks, you can’t go past Cabot’s oils and stains.
As for colour trends, the Dulux experts predict that rich burgundies and wine hues will become more prominent throughout residential interior design, alongside increased use of green including olive, sage and vibrant yellowgreen.
Here we provide a little more on the Dulux colour ranges - available in store at Dahlsens Mitre 10.
Emerge
Stepping away from clean and brighter shades, the muted Emerge palette features uplifting, almost-pastel
shades with its greyed-off purple blues to be a new colour direction in 2025.
While each colour in the palette is conducive to walls, soft furnishings and fabrics or appearing as accents in decorative objects and artwork, the warm orange-based pink and biscuit shades, including Terracotta Chip and Clay Bake, or the greyed-off Vintage Lilac are stunning backdrops to accents such as Lemon Blast and purplebased blue Justice.
Recollect
As a response to seeking comfort and security, the moody Recollect palette evokes a sense of nostalgia, reflection and sophistication with yellow-based greens and deep olive shades paired with rich wine shades.
Recollect draws on our fondness for the simplicity of past eras creating a feeling of connection to our heritage that provides a sense of meaning and continuity.
While older generations find comfort in the past, young ones see newness and exciting opportunities to blend classic styles with modern decor recreating the moods of their grandparents and parents’ homes while also expressing their own style.
Purple, rich burgundies and wine colours are predicted to be a strong colour direction from this palette for 2025, evoking feelings of opulence and cosiness.
Still
Driven by our need to appreciate things in the slow lane, the Still palette has a calming effect that can create a nourishing and comforting environment.
The Still trend focuses on creating interiors that are serene and enriched with detail, encouraging a more intentional and sustainable way of living
Undyed textiles are selected for their natural colours and properties in wool, shearling, cotton and linen that can be integrated alongside traditional materials such as stone and ceramic.
Encouraging a deeper connection with nature, the subdued palette is filled with calming neutrals, and grey midtone shades as accents that exude warmth and a sense of ease.
The Still palette is likely to be popular with home enthusiasts with its beautiful warm neutrals, muted darker tones, yellow-based greens and greyed-off blues.
New homebuyer?
CHANTELLE SHEVELS FROM GRASS ROOTS FINANCE TELLS US THE TOP 7 THINGS A NEW HOMEBUYER NEEDS TO KNOW.
1
Bigger deposit, better position
While some lenders can offer low-deposit loans for less than 5 percent of the purchase price, saving around 20 percent can offer you big benefits:
• Access to a wider pool of lenders and products
• You need to borrow less money overall
• It’s a clear sign to potential lenders that you’re good at managing money.
If you’ve saved less than 20 per cent there are lenders who can help, but deposits of that size may require Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). This adds more fees and another layer of assessment of your suitability because LMI providers are separate businesses and often have quite strict rules.
2
Know your credit rating
Lenders use your credit rating to judge whether your circumstances are suitable for a loan. Some non-bank lenders will review your financial situation as a whole, so your credit rating’s not always the defining factor when you apply for a loan. But it does matter. Credit scores are closely linked to the success of home loan applications, so understanding what makes up and affects your credit rating is important for any homebuyer. Get hold of a copy of your personal credit file and review your own credit rating - including any defaults listed against your name. There can be mistakes on your reportif you pick up on them you can request they get altered.
You can easily get a free credit score online. You can Google it or check the Australian Government’s Money Smart Website for quick links.
3
Work out what your bottom line looks like
You probably know where you want to buy and how much you want to pay; now it’s time to work out how much you can reasonably borrow. You’ll need to take the various home loan fees into account, like stamp duty, legal fees or Lender Protection Fees (LPF). You should also think about your current situation, your income and expenses, any dependents (kids or parents), and any lifestyle changes you can see coming up – like a job change or starting a family. Think about what’s likely to happen in the near future - as well as how it is right now.
4
If the home loan doesn’t fit, don’t sign up for it
There are more things to consider with a home loan than just the interest rate. There are redraw and offset facilities, refinance costs, repayment flexibility, fixed or variable interest rates, loan terms and fees to consider. Make sure you research the loan options available and examine them all.
5
Research, research, research
Did we mention research? Often the difference between a diamond in the rough and a dodgy deal is simply the buyer’s level of market knowledge. The more you know about the property market and where you want to buy, the better. Look at average prices over the last
decade, whether it’s near shops, schools and transport, potential rental returns, etc. You want to be sure the area has what you need in terms of both lifestyle now and future growth opportunity.
6
Potential investment
Speaking of growth opportunity, remember that sometimes the best locations for property growth are not the ‘hot’ suburbs but the suburbs next door. These often provide a cheaper entry point and greater potential for development. Likewise, a brand new or newly renovated property will generally charge a premium for the look. An existing, lived-in home may not look as pretty, but it can be much better value and let’s you add your own personality to it.
7
If you don’t have the finance, don’t make a bid
There’s no cooling-off period at auctions, once you’ve made an accepted bid that’s it. Buyers without finance approval can find themselves in serious strife if they sign a sale contract. Stay on the safe side, make sure you hold a letter of finance approval from your lender. That way you can negotiate your purchase price without worry.
If you’re a first home buyer ready to enter the market, keep these hot tips in mind. They can help you be a savvy home buyer. If you’d like more information talk to us today. You can contact Chantelle Shevels by email chantelle@ grassrootsfinance.com.au, phone 0427 629 522, or visit www.grassrootsfinance.com.au.
Quality marketing for best presentation
ENTRUSTING A SKILLED AND PASSIONATE REAL ESTATE AGENT LIKE THOSE AT BIG RIVER REAL ESTATE TO LIST YOUR PROPERTY FOR SALE OR LEASE ENSURES YOU OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY MARKETING.
Your property is likely to be one of the biggest assets of your lifetime, so it’s important that you choose an agent capable of portraying your property in its ‘best light’ like those at Big River Real Estate.
Showcasing the improvements and features of your property is crucial to capturing the interest of one or more potential buyers (or tenants), and Big River places a particular importance in high quality marketing tools to achieve this level of interest.
“Gone are the days of a single kerbside marketing photo” says agency principal Angela Carmichael.
“Home owners should and will expect more of an agent in this day and age, so we have raised the bar in the local market which has been to the delight of our vendors and landlords”.
Professionally edited photography, high quality in-house drone imagery, a property floor plan and social media presentation of your new listing are all included in Big River’s listing campaigns at no additional cost to vendors, and will see your property come to life in both printed and online marketing.
The high exposure Big River office window display demands the attention of
those passing-by, showcasing listings in a state-of-the-art LED window installation at their Cressy St office. Located in the take-away food ‘hub’ of town, passers-by often stop and linger.
Your carefully prepared marketing also won’t be missed online, with the agency’s listings featuring on no less than five online portals, including both Realestate. com and Domain.
“Sometimes, a potential buyer may not know exactly what appeals to them
(superficially) until its presented to them in property marketing,” Angela said.
“So we really do understand just how important it is to formulate high quality marketing material and to feature that marketing in as many places as possible.”
Combined with the refined negotiation skills and local market knowledge of their well-established sale and property management agents, Big River will have you best positioned to achieve maximum returns.
If you are interested in having an agent visit your property and provide a free market appraisal, considering improvements you have made to (or may be planning for) your property, contact the Big River team. Mention this article to the friendly staff, who will gladly arrange an obligation free market appraisal appointment for you.
“You’ll be in great hands with our team, who have been named ‘Rate My Agent’ Deniliquin Agency Of The Year for four successive years,” Angela said.
• Tree removal
• Tree maintenance & trimming
• Stump removal & grinding
• Mulching
• Aerial rigging / limited access
• Tree health & hazard assessment
• Pest & disease identification & Management
• Remote area / travel specialist
WE’VE GOT THE LOT!
• New Decorative Driveways and Paths.
• Lawn Scarifying and Aerating
• Planning, Planting and Shrub/Plant Care Advice.
• All Things Plant and Organic Living
• Garden and Lawn Refurbishment and Maintenance.
• Bobcat, Tipper, Slasher and Mini Excavator Hire.
• 24 Hour emergency tree service Not just your local nursery!
• Obligation free quotes, professional service and advice. Look to your local…. We’re all over your next garden job, large or small, like compost on a garden bed!
Lush greens to tastypassion project
WHEN YOU HEAR THE PHRASE ‘LIVING THE DREAM’, YOU THINK OF KASEY COLLETT AND MATTHEW HILLIARD.
As the world was being brought to its knees by the COVID-19 pandemic, the husband and wife team were setting about turning their passion into a career. The result was the establishment of Leaves and Vines Nursery in Deniliquin.
Through it, the pair not only share their love of gardening with their children and with the community, they’re helping people return to sustainable gardening practices.
Perfectly complementing their existing landscaping business, they’re also able to help others bring their dream gardens to life. At the same time, the Hilliard family were completely transforming their own outdoor spaces.
“As we explored our passion for gardening with the community, our home garden was evolving too - as a garden does,” Kasey said.
“They do say an average garden has a makeover or rehash every 10 years, but we took this one to the extremes.
“Our home garden was 100 per cent green lush foliage and shrubs.
“During COVID, noticing how much the kids loved to see and consume home produce, we got to work.
“We are really passionate about nutrient dense food.
“As a society we are one of the highest consumers of food, yet the most nutrient deficient, so we took this challenge on.”
Matthew said they’ve made a number of exciting changes already, but it’s still very much a work in progress and always evolving.
“We have numerous fruit trees, and a edible front fence line from which anyone can grab a sneaky apple walking past.
“We also have cherries, but encourage people to keep in mind that cherries can be tricky and labour intensive, as well as tangelo, apricots, blood orange and pink lady apples.
“Our feature trees are white flesh peach, mulberry and Bosch pear.
“Yes, fruit fly is always a never ending battle, but with different methods we are doing well so far.”
The front yard transformation has only been exceeded by what the Hilliard’s have been able to achieve in the back.
“Our backyard evolved from lush, to next level divine,” Kasey said.
“We have more than 30 different edible species, more than 13 types of vegetables, and flower and fruit beds.
“There’s raspberries, pumpkins vertically grown and even brussel sprouts which, believe it or not, are loved by my kiddies.
“My most prized plants are the finger lime and davidson plums - all native and culturally endemic to this area.”
Kasey said while it may sound like such a transformation would be expensive, she said it does not have to be the case.
“This isn’t a journey that has to cost a fortune. We have a ethos in our nursery that we must allow people to enjoy planting out gardens and produce, so we keep our prices low.
“We also offer as much advice as we can - we are always here to help with all your garden questions.
“Like any other gardener, if there is there is something we don’t know we will find another way that works in consultation with a fellow gardener.
“We will work together for the only benefit of you and your plants.”
To further extend this new direction, Leaves and Vines has established a Garden Kids Club at the Cressy St nursery.
“We want to foster the next generation, and all our visitors are more than welcome to grab a sneaky organic strawberry or any of the other organic, no-chemical seasonal produce as they wander.”
As you enjoy your gardens this summer and enjoy all your hard work of the last 12 months, it’s also the perfect time to plan your autumn changes and planting.
“Leaves and Vines can do everything, from organising your plant orders to creating and maintaining your gardens for you,” Matthew said.
“Leaves and Vines has extensive knowledge and a whole lot of passion, and with Bazza the bobcat, Izzy the Isuzu tipper and Beatrice the mini excavator we have all your garden needs sorted.
“We can install new lawns and spruce up your existing lawns with our new range of machines - Sid the scarifier and Arty the aerator - ready for your autumn lawn rejuvenation and prep.
“We can also redo your driveway with potholes, or even better bring a new dimension for the driveway.”
Call into Leaves and Vines at 214 Cressy St, Deniliquin (opposite the Post Office) or call 0429 899 631.
Revamp your space
DO YOU HAVE A CASE OF THE RENO BUG? A BIT OF ‘THE BLOCK’ FEVER? OR PERHAPS YOU ARE BUILDING YOUR DREAM HOME?
What better team to guide you through the process than Menadue Floor Coverings.
Whether you are tackling a new floor or dreaming of new custom-made curtains, the team at Menadue Floor Coverings have you covered.
A third generation family run business, Dimity (nee Menadue) and Leigh Strongman certainly have all the experience to assure you make the right decisions with your next project.
For those keen on DIY projects, Menadues offers expert advice and quality materials to support your home improvement endeavours.
But if you decide to leave it to the experts, Leigh and Jamie are the fully qualified flooring installers that will make sure your floor comes up an absolute treat.
In the showroom you will find Becky and Dimity, one a fully qualified interior designer and a combined 30 years of industry experience between them, you are guaranteed to have all the help and guidance that you need when selecting your soft furnishings.
“We enjoy going on-site with our customers, to get a feel for what they like and working in with the existing style of their house,” Dimity said.
“We’re witnessing a significant revival of curtains, with many homeowners opting to enhance their existing blinds by adding elegant S-wave sheer curtains for a softer ambience.
“With just one small change, you can really change the feel of the room.”
Another option that has proven quite popular this year is the Ziptrak outdoor blinds.
“This product instantly transforms your outdoor area into an entertainer’s dream, allowing you to utilise the room 12 months of the year.
“They cut out a huge amount of heat from the summer sun, and also reduce a drastic amount of chill throughout winter.”
Menadue Floor Coverings is a local business deeply rooted in Deniliquin. Since 1959, it has been a
cornerstone of the Deniliquin community, proving that our commitment to quality, expert advice, and exceptional customer care stands the test of time and never goes out of style.
Asbestosknow your responsibilities
IF YOU LOVE A FIXER-UPPER, THE CHANCES OF YOU COMING ACROSS SOME OLD AND POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS MATERIALS WHILE RENOVATING CAN BE QUITE HIGH.
Asbestos is one of the most common finds in older homes.
And as there is no known safe level of exposure to asbestos, your safety, planning and processes are critical.
It might be easy to throw your rubbish housing materials in a pile for a bonfire, but that could land you a massive fine.
Legislation with increased penalties for illegal dumping of asbestos was announced in November 2018.
Maximum penalties for existing waste offences involving asbestos have doubled to $2 million for corporations and $500,000 for individuals.
These increased penalties also apply to offences of unlawful disposal of asbestos waste and re-use or recycling of asbestos waste.
The NSW Government strongly recommends you use a licensed asbestos removalist.
They know how to safely remove and dispose of asbestos, and can then decontaminate your property to minimise health risks.
If you insist on doing the work yourself, or hiring someone who is unlicensed, you must follow strict safety procedures before, during, and after removal.
Any renovation should start with finding out where asbestos is on your property.
A licensed asbestos assessor can inspect your property and give you a report.
Asbestos can only be confirmed by testing samples at a NATA-accredited lab, which
can be found at: https://www.asbestos.nsw. gov.au/removal-and-disposal/how-to-safelyremove-asbestos/decontamination-afterasbestos-removal.
Once you know where asbestos is in your property, you can plan for renovation or maintenance.
You may be able to leave asbestos undisturbed or cover it safely.
If you choose to remove asbestos on your own property, take steps to keep everyone safe. This includes:
• sealing off the work area from the rest of the building – using plastic drop sheets with a thickness of 200 microns
• having enough asbestos-safe PPE for everyone on site
• limiting how many people are on site during removal work
• communicating with neighbours about the removal
• setting up a decontamination area to avoid spreading asbestos fibres
• having the right materials ready to wrap and label asbestos waste
• planning for disposal.
SafeWork NSW have produced a series of videos to help professionals when working with asbestos.
Use personal protective equipment (PPE)
Wearing the right PPE protects your health when working with asbestos.
Wearing PPE stops you breathing in fibres and protects your clothes from contamination.
It’s important to put on PPE in the right order and wear it correctly, or you risk exposure to dangerous asbestos fibres.
Your PPE disposable coveralls with hood and elasticised cuffs, protective showes without laces, disposable shoe covers, disposable gloves which should be tucked under elastic cuffs, a P2 rated particulate face mask and protective eyewear.
Decontamination
After asbestos removal, the work area must be decontaminated to remove dust and stop asbestos fibres from spreading in the air.
Before decontaminating the asbestos removal work area, make sure to:
• Prepare: wet wipes or rags, plastic or plastic waste bags at least 200 microns thick, duct tape and a pen.
• Clearly label the asbestos waste bags before you start the decontamination.
The label should read: DANGER: ASBESTOS WASTE.
You can find then 200 micron thick plastic where you get your PPE.
Learn more at https://www.asbestos.nsw. gov.au/removal-and-disposal/how-to-safelyremove-asbestos/decontamination-afterasbestos-removal.
Disposal
You can only dispose of asbestos waste at a licensed landfill that manages asbestos away from the community.
Disposal is allowed at the Deniliquin landfill site, but it must be disposed of according to guidelines.
The landfill operator must be notified at least 24 hours before the materials are brought to the waste depot.
More details on commercial and residential asbestos removal can be obtained from Edward River Council’s website, at www.edwardriver.nsw.gov. au/Services/Rubbish-Bins-and-Recycling/ Asbestos.
Our picks...
Centro Coffee Table (2 drawer), Harvey Norman Deniliquin, $29.95.
‘Stanley’ Wall Art, 90cm x 120cm, Harvey Norman Deniliquin, $449.
Ecology Speckle Chunky Legs Bowl Polka, Dahlsens Mitre 10 Deniliquin, $31.99.
Arabella Rug, various sizes, Menadue’s Floor Coverings, see instore for pricing.
Woven Polyresin Tealight Holder, Harvey Norman Deniliquin, $29.95.
Linenhouse Australia 200TC Cotton Sheet Sets, Deniliquin Florist Gifts & More, from $90.
Monte Chunky Natural Throw, Harvey Norman Deniliquin, $49.
Built Blackboard & Tray Plant Display Stand, Dahlsens Mitre 10 Deniliquin, $69.
Good Vibes™ 70s Floral Country Style 4 Person Picnic Basket Set, 26 Piece, Carry Strap, edith elsie, $68.
Locally made by Kurrajong Chopping Board, Leaves & Vines Nursery, $40.
Our picks...
Extra large ceramic green
Pampa 3.5m Octagonal Cantilever Outdoor Umbrella, Harvey Norman Deniliquin, $899.
Callie Cushions, various colours, Harvey Norman Deniliquin, $49.
Norman Adirondack Outdoor Armchair, various colours, Harvey Norman Deniliquin, $299.
Chloe 3 Piece Bistro Setting, Dahlsens Mitre 10 Deniliquin, $199.
Alfresco Gardenware rusted garden art, Dahlsens Mitre 10 Deniliquin, $94.99.
Retro Orange Bottle Vases, edith elsie, $8.
Nova Glass Ribbed Bottle Vase, various colours, Harvey Norman Deniliquin, $49.
Vintage glass fruit and vegetables, various, edith elsie, $15 each.
