Nambucca Valley News Of The Area 1 September 2023

The Art of Recovery

By Mary KEILY

ARTISTS who worked with disaster-impacted communities traumatised from the 2019/2020 Black Summer bushfires are staging an exhibition in Bowraville.

Through their communityengaged arts practise with people from Coffs Harbour to Taree, artists were trained to use a different skill set to work within settings where shared trauma has been experienced.

This work is part of the Creative Recovery program, initiated by Arts Mid North Coast and funded by the Australian and NSW Governments' Bushfire Community Recovery and Resilience Fund, Primary Health Network and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal.

“When the fires tore through our region, we realised it was no longer ‘business as usual’,” Olivia Parker, Executive Director of Arts Mid North Coast told News Of The

CONTINUED Page 3

q Participants at the Bellingen Creative Recovery Training Program.

Mick BIRTLES 0408 167 891 birtles@newsofthearea.com.au

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AEC offers clarification on Referendum voting instructions

event, the AEC remains totally focused on electoral integrity.

By Doug CONNOR

LAST week, during an appearance on Sky News, Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) Commissioner Tom Rogers triggered confusion after suggesting that ticks will be counted as Yes votes but crosses will not be counted as Nos in the upcoming Voice to Parliament referendum. Intense commentary online and in mainstream media followed regarding what will and will not be considered a formal vote in the 2023 referendum; specifically around whether or not a ‘tick’ or a ‘cross’ will be able to be counted.

According to the AEC, much of that commentary is factually incorrect and ignores the law surrounding ‘savings provisions’, the longstanding legal advice regarding the use of ticks and crosses, and the decades-long and multi-referendum history of the application of that law and advice.

“The AEC completely and utterly rejects the suggestions by some that by transparently following the established, public and known legislative requirements we are undermining the impartiality and fairness of the referendum,” read an AEC statement to media on Friday.

”As has been the case at every electoral

“Indeed, electoral integrity is a central part of the AEC’s published values; underpinned by, and supported through, complete adherence to all relevant laws and regulations.” The law

Like an election, the Referendum (Machinery Provisions) Act 1984 includes ‘savings provisions’ - the ability to count a vote where the instructions have not been followed but the voter’s intention is clear.

“The law regarding formality in a referendum is long-standing and unchanged through many governments, Parliaments, and multiple referendums,” the AEC suggested.

“Legal advice from the Australian Government Solicitor, provided on multiple occasions during the previous three decades, regarding the application of savings provisions to ‘ticks’ and ’crosses’ has been consistent

– for decades.

“This is not new, nor a new AEC determination of any kind for the 2023 referendum.

“The law regarding savings provisions and the principle around a voter’s intent has been in place for at least 30 years and six referendum questions.”

The longstanding legal advice provides that a cross can be open to interpretation as to whether it denotes approval or disapproval.

For example, many people use a cross to indicate approval in checkboxes on forms.

The legal advice provides that for a single referendum

question, a clear ‘tick’ should be counted as formal and a ‘cross’ should not.

How to cast a formal vote

The formal voting instructions for the referendum are to clearly write either ‘yes’ or ‘no’, in full, in English.

”It is that easy,” the AEC said.

“Given the simplicity, the AEC expects the vast, vast majority of Australian voters to follow those instructions and cast a formal vote.”

Previous levels of formality

More than 99 percent of votes cast at the 1999 federal referendum were formal.

Even of the 0.86 percent of informal votes, many would have had no relevance to the use of ticks or crosses.

Have Your Say

News Of The Area would love to hear your OPINION and VIEWS on issues and topics affecting our area. Keep Letters to the Editor under 250 words for its best chance of publication. Please be aware that there is no guarantee of publication from your submission to us. Publication will be determined by the Editor around available

The Art of Recovery exhibition hits Bowraville’s Phoenix Gallery

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Area.

“As an arts organisation, we knew we had to respond to the crisis, and in the best way we know how - and that’s through art and creativity.”

Three facilitator training workshops were held in Bellingen, Kempsey and Taree for artists and arts workers, emergency service workers, local council representatives and Arts Mid North Coast

staff.

It brought people together to understand what creative recovery can offer in a safe space where people can channel their grief and express emotions.

“The subtle thing is that making art can shift the brain from the flight or fight response,” Olivia said.

“When you are focusing on doing it, one lets go of trauma and at the same time, when sharing the activity, it’s

a really healing process.”

Videos of such exchanges will also be on show.

The Art of Recovery Exhibition opens at the Phoenix Art Gallery, 88 High Street, Bowraville on Saturday 9 September and runs until Saturday 23 September.

The opening event will be held at 11am on Saturday 9 September with talks by the project team

Macksville to Nambucca: Watt Creek Cycleway to officially open

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complete and ready for use by the Valley’s hundreds of cyclists.

The cycleway was built by the Nambucca Valley Council, with grant funding

from Restart NSW under the Cycling Infrastructure Fund and additional funding from the Department of Regional NSW under the Stronger Country Communities Fund.

q 'Black Summer' by Ann

McDermott.

To celebrate its completion an opening event will be held on Sunday 10 September.

Council, in collaboration with Rotary, ShoreTrack and The Wheelsmith Cycle Shop, will be hosting this official opening event, a Nambucca and Macksville Community Bike Ride.

The route of the ride follows the recently completed cycleway from Ferry Park, Macksville to the RSL Carpark, Nambucca Heads.

Participants can start at either end and the total distance of the return ride is 25km.

There is no official starting time and participants can start whenever they like.

The only fixed time for the whole morning program is 11.00am at the park near

Bellingen Plant Fair springs to life

By Andrew VIVIAN

PUT Saturday, September 9

in your diary and make the picturesque drive to beautiful Bellingen and return home, feeling good with a carload of interesting plants.

The Bellingen Spring Plant Fair is on again from 7.30am to 2pm at Bellingen Park.

With the Park full of everything plant related, the focus is on natives, getting more trees in the ground and loving the environment.

The Bellingen

Environment Centre Inc (BEC) presents the event twice a year, in spring and autumn, as a major fundraiser.

The BEC is a dedicated group who share environmental issues, protect environment and biodiversity, and foster proactive responses to climate change.

Attendance at the Fair supports their valuable work and helps make positive change in our region.

The Bellingen Growers Market is on the east side of the park and there will be fabulous music from Glenn

Heath and the Deep Blue Sea, as well as an assortment of delicious food, drink, and coffee.

Between the music on the stage there will be talks featuring Biodynamic Agriculture Australia and Sid Hazell discussing biodynamics (with demonstration), Luigi Marasco from the Patch and Ian Epic Earth from the Gourmet Gardener.

Kids will love Martina from Creative Corner helping them make beautiful plant collages and Bonville Nursery involving them in seed propagation on

the side of the oval.

The Bellingen Plant Fair brings together a diverse mix of people from up and down the coast, creating a vibrant, relaxed, and friendly event for the whole family.

“It’s a great opportunity to wander through nature, see and buy a large variety of quality, locally grown plants and receive valuable information, education, and understanding about soil, seeds, plants, and environment,” said Kaz Selbie, the Fair manager.

the Boatshed Café in the Nambucca Heads RSL Carpark, where there will be an official opening ceremony, some stalls and a lucky prize draw where registered riders' allocated numbers will be randomly drawn.

There will also be a prize for the best decorated bike ridden by a child under 12 years.

This will be judged at the official opening and bike and rider must be present to enter.

Registration is free but all riders must be registered.

Registration is now open, pre-ride registration is encouraged and is available in Nambucca Heads at the Nambucca Heads Newsagency on Bowra Street and in Macksville at Wheelsmith Cycles on Wallace Street.

To register simply write your name, email address and phone number on a sheet provided.

You will be given your ride number, which you will need to wear or attach to your bike during the ride.

The Council’s Road Safety Officer, Kelly Green, told News Of The Area, “The Watt Creek Cycleway Grand Opening Community Bike Ride not only officially opens the new cycleway, but also encourages residents to embrace healthier lifestyles, reduce their carbon footprint, and come together as a united community.

“The cycleway serves as a symbol of the collective effort to promote sustainable transportation and shared path awareness."

Friday, 1 September 2023

The Watt Creek Cycleway, linking Macksville and Nambucca Heads along the Nambucca River, is almost

q The Watt Creek Cycleway, linking Macksville and Nambucca Heads along the Nambucca River, is almost complete and ready for use by the Valley’s hundreds of cyclists. Photo: Rod Edwards.

q The Fair is about more than just buying plants. Photo: BEC.

5,000

BAREFOOT FUNERALS

Leaving the Earth Lightly Funerals, Memorials, Burials and Cremations

Home vigils and support

Gentle and Meaningful Deathcare

By Mick BIRTLES

GOLD Coast man Matt Hockings is passionate about shining a light on mental health and suicide prevention and to prove it, he is riding a bicycle 1000 km along the East Coast in seven days to raise awareness about mental health challenges in the community.

Matt’s RUOK Ride sets off from the Gold Coast on Friday 8 September and on his way to Newcastle and the Hunter Valley, will visit Ritchies IGA at the Nambucca Plaza for a sausage sizzle on Sunday 10 September.

“RUOK Day is Thursday 14 September and this year I’m calling on everyone to ask ‘RUOK?’.

“No qualifications are needed, because we are capable of supporting each other, of listening and being there for those that need it.

“You only need the guts to start the conversation,” Matt Hockings told News Of The Area.

Matt is a father, husband and friend who is intending to ride his bike from his home to various Ritchies stores, including the Nambucca Heads store, where he will hand out RUOK wristbands while proudly endorsing the RUOK movement, highlighting the importance of good mental health, challenging the stigma and starting the conversation.

“My bike ride this year is something I want to do myself, for myself and for the ones I love so I am using my own annual leave, my own equipment and my own sheer determination,” Matt added.

Matt is hopeful this ride can help break down the stigma around mental health struggles and encourage the acceptance and discussion around mental health in both the workplace and our everyday lives.

The ride will be conducted unassisted and in daylight hours.

2023 artist line up TEX PERKINS

AND THE FAT RUBBER BAND

WENDY MATTHEWS & GRACE KNIGHT – GRACELAND

BROOKE MCCLYMONT & ADAM ECKERSLEY

RAY BEADLE – STAX OF BLUES

FELICITY URQUHART & JOSH CUNNINGHAM

FRANK SULTANA  ROSHANI  LITTLE QUIRKS

HUSSY HICKS  MITCH KING  ROUND MOUNTAIN GIRLS

GRACE AND HUGH  MINOR GOLD (TRACY MCNEIL & DAN PARSONS)

Matt will try to connect with township community Facebook pages to let people know and hopefully look out for him, both for the purpose of the ride as well for his safety.

The Lions Club of Nambucca Heads have jumped on board in support of Matt and are cooking the sausage sizzle on Sunday 10

September.

All money raised will be donated to RUOK.

Meet Matt, the man riding 1000km in seven days for RUOK

To meet Matt in person and show support for RUOK, the sausage sizzle will be at Ritchies IGA, Nambucca Plaza, on Sunday 10 September.

Matt is expected to arrive at 12:30pm.

q Matt Hocking will visit the Nambucca Plaza on 10 September on his ride to raise awareness of mental health.

www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au

DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL

(Notice of Application for Advertised Development pursuant to Schedule 1, Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following development application has been received by Nambucca Valley Council.

Applicant: Bowraville Recreation Club

DA/File No: DA 2023/209

Property Description: Lot: 482 DP: 700681, 2 South Arm Road Bowraville

Proposal: Shed

Consent Authority: NAMBUCCA VALLEY COUNCIL

The development application may be inspected at Council’s Administration Centre, Princess Street, Macksville, during office hours being 8.30 am to 4.00 pm weekdays from 1 September 2023 until 29 September 2023. Documents relating to the proposal may also be viewed at www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au – Development – Development Application

– Advertisement – Advertisements & Documents on Exhibition.

Any person may make written submissions or objections in respect of the proposal which should be lodged with the undersigned no later than 29 September 2023. Submissions must be addressed to the General Manager, Nambucca Valley Council, PO Box 177, Macksville NSW 2447 or sent by email to council@nambucca.nsw.gov.au. It is requested that submissions in support or objection list reasons. The provision of a name, address and contact telephone number will enable Council to inform you about the progress and outcome of the matter. Please note that any submission may be incorporated in a Council business paper or otherwise publicly disclosed.

Note: Your attention is drawn to Section 10.4 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 which requires those making a submission to disclose all “reportable political donations and gifts”.

All submissions will be acknowledged following Council’s determination of the application.

ENQUIRIES TO: Lisa Hall 02 6568 0228

PO BOX 177 MACKSVILLE NSW 2447 www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au

Running in remembrance

NOTA will catch up with the guys again once they have detailed plans for publication.

By Andrea FERRARI

TURNING a tragic loss into a catalyst for positive change, 24-year-olds

Jack Mitchell and Max Sandstrom have created a long-distance run in memory of their dear friend Eden Buckingham, who took his own life in 2022.

The three had been friends at Bellingen High School.

In the wake of this heartwrenching event, Jack and Max embarked on a journey that has transformed from a personal endeavour into a burgeoning community movement with the potential to change lives.

On September 25, 2023, the pair will set off running from Newcastle, NSW to the Gold Coast, QLD, spanning 14 days.

Currently working on the route, Nambucca, Urunga and Coffs Harbour are the only towns they have locked in so far to engage with the local community.

“Our goal is not only to honour the memory of Eden but also to raise vital funds for mental health support and awareness,” Max and Jack told News Of The Area.

The impact of Eden's passing has inspired them to channel their grief into a force for good, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health struggles and fostering a sense of community.

What initially started as a simple

idea has blossomed into a dynamic initiative that is gaining momentum each day.

Their efforts are fuelled by the understanding that a catastrophe like Eden's passing can lead to positive change, and they are committed to making a difference in the lives of others who are facing similar challenges.

“While we are the faces, and the feet, of this run, there is an entire network of like-minded individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure our campaign’s success.

“The outpouring of support we have received is a testament to the impact Eden had on those around him and the urgent need for increased mental health awareness and support,” they said.

In tandem with promoting awareness, they are raising funds for Beyond Blue, a charity dedicated to helping individuals struggling with mental health issues.

They have set an ambitious goal of raising $20,000, a substantial increase from their initial target of $10,000, thanks to the overwhelming support they have

already received.

As part of their initiative, Jack and Max are planning to release merchandise, with all proceeds directly benefiting Beyond Blue.

They are also committed to documenting their training journey and the run itself, aiming to engage supporters and donors by sharing personal reflections on the impact of depression, isolation and substance abuse.

Instagram - https://www. instagram.com/run4eden2023/ Fundraising Link - https://team. beyondblue.org.au/jack-mitchell

q Eden Buckingham, Max Sandstrom and Jack Mitchell in 2016 at Bellingen High School.

q Max and Jack training for their big run for Beyond Blue in memory of Eden.

q Max and Jack will run through home territory on the Coffs Coast on their 14-day run.

Fact checkers suspended by Meta after complaints, licencing issue

By Doug CONNOR

RMIT FactLab, an organisation working alongside Meta to ‘debunk’ misinformation and conspiracy theories circulating on social media regarding the Voice to Parliament referendum, has temporarily been suspended from its duties by the social media giant.

RMIT FactLab is a factchecking, research and training hub based at RMIT University self-described as “committed to fighting the viral spread of misinformation that can harm people and undermine democratic processes”.

According to Meta, the suspension was due to criticisms of FactLab’s fact checking by opponents of the Voice referendum, and a lapse in accreditation from the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN).

Up until Tuesday, FactLab was tasked with monitoring social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram.

Posts on Meta’s platforms that are fact checked by FactLab and other third-party fact checking organisations may have warning labels applied by Meta but they are not removed by FactLab.

FactLab now awaits an investigation by the IFCN to determine if their licence will be reinstated.

All organisations accredited with the IFCN apply for renewal annually.

“The International FactChecking Network requires participating organisations to demonstrate a commitment to nonpartisanship and fairness,” a Meta spokesperson told News Of The Area.

“The IFCN will determine whether RMIT FactLab’s expired certification should be reinstated.

“Considering both the nature of the allegations against RMIT and the upcoming referendum, we have decided to suspend RMIT from our fact-checking program pending the IFCN’s decision,” the spokesperson said.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to stop the spread of misinformation on our services and continue to partner with AAP and AFP in Australia.”

On Wednesday a spokesperson for RMIT told News Of The Area that the IFCN “accreditation is currently in the process of being renewed”.

“The IFCN has confirmed that FactLab’s fact-checking meets all its standards and adheres to the IFCN’s Code of Principles.

“RMIT FactLab stands by the accuracy of its work to date and remains dedicated to slowing the spread of viral misinformation and disinformation through its fact checks.

“Fact checking aims to bring transparency to debate and reporting on issues of public importance and does not involve the removal or censoring of information.”

Dr Anne Kruger, Associate Director of RMIT FactLab and Director of the CrossCheck division, told News Of The Area on August 25, just four days prior to the suspension decision, that their IFCN licence was in place.

The ICFN is a small organisation, and as such there can be delays with processing renewals and these updates being reflected online.

“RMIT FactLab was established in January 2022 and is accredited by, and abides by, the principles of the International Fact Checking Network,” Dr Kruger said last week.

“The teams make up their own mind on what they fact check, monitor and verify.

“We have been established on the principles of independence and accountability - seeking to provide information consumers with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions.”

The organisation describes itself as apolitical, providing services in a strictly bipartisan manner.

“For example in the Voice Referendum - we take a neutral stance and are not

telling people how to vote,” Dr Kruger said.

Claims recently debunked by the FactLab team include that the Federal Government will rig the referendum for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament to ensure a successful Yes vote.

After an investigation, FactLab found there was “no evidence” to suggest this was true.

Another claim recently circulated on social media came from Indigenous woman Mebbingarri Cindy Roberts, who suggested in a viral video that failure to vote in the Voice referendum would count as a Yes vote.

Again, FactLab found this claim to be untrue, as people who do not vote, or cast an informal vote, will simply not be counted.

One of the most widely circulated pieces of misinformation surrounding the Voice relates to the Uluru Statement from the Heart, a 440 word document which calls for the establishment of a First Nations Voice and a Makarrata Commission.

In an early August oped for the Daily Telegraph, and again on Sky News, Peta Credlin referred to “secret documents” that supposedly revealed the Uluru Statement from the Heart is not one, but 26 pages long.

This claim spread like wildfire on social media, however FactLab found that Ms Credlin was not telling the whole truth.

Released by the National Indigenous Australians Agency in March, the documents to which Ms Credlin refers contain background information only, compiled from regional discussions undertaken during the development of the Uluru Statement - they were not ‘secret’ pages of the Uluru Statement.

Even Credlin’s Sky News colleague Chris Kenny took issue with her misrepresentation of the documents.

“I really focus on the furphys being put around by

the no case,” Kenny said on Sky News.

“One of them is this claim, that the Uluru Statement from the Heart is 26 pages long.

“That Labor has signed up to all 26 pages, secretly, and that there is a conspiracy to hide all this from voters.

“This is simply untrue.

“The documents that she (Credlin) has been brandishing, are the one page Uluru Statement, and attached to it, all sorts of background papers, discussion summaries and roadmaps and even diagrams.

“These are not part of the Uluru Statement,” he said.

Last week, Liberal Senator James Paterson, the Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security, wrote to Meta’s Director of Public Affairs, Mia Garlick, on the issue.

“I am deeply concerned by recent reports that Meta is censoring legitimate reporting on its platform, Facebook, relating to the upcoming referendum to enshrine an Indigenous Voice in the Australian constitution,” Mr Paterson wrote.

“The substance of the Uluru Statement is a legitimate issue on which people of good will can reasonably disagree and should not be limited on your platform.”

Other recent Voice-related theories debunked by FactLab include that the Albanese Government is funding the ‘Yes’ campaign, that an additional question will appear on the ballot about Australia becoming a republic, that the Voice referendum is illegal, and that the Voice referendum will end private land ownership in Australia if passed.

The Australian Electoral Commision has also been overrun with claims of disinformation, leading to the creation of a list of “prominent pieces of disinformation the AEC has discovered regarding the announced referendum on the Voice to Parliament”.

Such claims include that the AEC is campaigning for a Yes or No vote, that the Constitution has been invalid since 1973 and that the AEC will be throwing out No votes.

A full list can be found at www.aec.gov.au/media/

disinformation-register-ref. htm.

Dr Kruger told News Of The Area that the spreading of misinformation on social media had been a growing issue in Australia in recent years.

“By the lead up to the election in 2019 I could see a growing sense of urgency where certain vulnerable groups were repeatedly targeted - usually over race or religion.

“It was really the events of 2019 and 2020 that were a watershed moment where ordinary Australians gained a heightened awareness of mis- and disinformation circulating online - be it via their mobile phones to laptops, and even letterbox drop brochures.

“This included higher exposure to and engagement with various forms of misand disinformation during the summer of bushfires, the 2019 federal election and ultimately the ‘infodemic’ of the coronavirus pandemic,” she said.

Dr Kruger said a variety of factors can make someone susceptible to believing and then sharing misinformation.

“Often it's out of fear and even good intentions,” she said.

“Sometimes people don't realise what they're sharing is wrong, and sometimes even satire or parody gets shared as if it were real.

“Also, we play out our identities online, so sometimes people join a group or persuasion because they feel they can ‘belong’ to something, not realising that the ideology may not be best for society - or them as individuals for that matter.”

While Dr Kruger understands much misinformation is shared without malice, she believes there are those who share misleading content with far more negative intentions.

“At the other end of the spectrum there are some

who see it as an opportunity to make money, and push division in society because they are scared they may lose some power in future, or do not understand the harm from racism and hate speech to our overall society.”

Given their standing in the community, Dr Kruger also stressed the responsibility on public figures to disperse factual, fair and balanced information.

“Politicians and public figures including influencers and celebrities must be aware of the weight of their words, simply because they are in the public sphere and have a larger platform, prominence and eminence,” she said.

“This means that they also need to be aware that they can be targeted or ‘used’ by those who hope to capitalise on this potential to amplify a message that spreads misinformation or disinformation.

“On the other hand there are fringe candidates that use misinformation to gain outsized online influence, or a reach they wouldn’t otherwise have.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has provided fringe candidates additional space, attention and audience.

“They are able to tap into the concerns and antiestablishment sentimentthis is unfortunate because often it can drown out or make it look like they have the support of citizens who simply at first wanted to use their democratic right to protest and ask questions.

“But often this is seen as an opportunity by others to take advantage of, and push an agenda.

“There is more attention focused during campaigns; elections are the perfect opportunity for agents of disinformation to target, and can also be rife with misinformation and bias.

“This is no less so with regards the Voice Referendum, when emotional issues and racism can be used as a scare campaign and to create a sense of overwhelm or confusion.”

Book Week at Bowraville Central School

BOOK WEEK was celebrated at Bowraville Central School (BCS) recently, with students and staff dressing up as their favourite book character.

The theme was 'Read, Grow, Inspire'.

BCS students were joined by Bowraville Community Preschool to parade around the main street of Bowraville to the delight of many onlookers.

Once back at school, students performed some high energy dances for their parents, then invited them to join in.

Parents and community were then treated to a delicious morning tea on the school's sunny deck

Macksville Uniting to host Thanksgiving Service

MACKSVILLE Uniting Church will hold a Thanksgiving Service at 1.30pm on Saturday 14 October this year.

“Since it is over two years until our church (formerly known as the Methodist Church) celebrates its centenary in Macksville, we have planned to have this Thanksgiving Service in October to recognise

and give thanks to our early church members for their commitment in establishing our church,” said Secretary Mavis Ward.

The congregation is now searching for anyone with early photos taken at the church, especially wedding photos.

“Please contact me if you have any.

“I would have them copied

and returned to you immediately as I realise how precious these are,” Mavis said.

If you or your family are interested in attending this service, please contact Mavis.

“We are having the service followed by afternoon tea in the church hall and need numbers for catering arrangements,” Mavis said.

Contact Mavis on 6568 2451, 0488 181 907 or at kmward2@bigpond.com.

q Parents join students in the dancing.

q Melita Mason, Brooklyn Hastings, Poppy Welch, Luka Smith-Farrell, Anthea Mason, Tonilla Buchanan, Lexi Wilson and Tallulah Martin.

q Bowraville Central School staff in full Book Week dress.

q Students crossing the road safely under the guidance of the 'The Grinch' aka My Taylor, Executive Principal.

Students to put on thought provoking theatre display

By Mick BIRTLES

LOVERS of the performing arts have a special event coming their way as the Nambucca Valley Christian Community School prepares to present ‘Where Words Once Were’ by IrishAustralian playwright Finegan Kruckemeyer.

This ambitious undertaking is the school’s biennial theatrical production and students from Year 5 all the way up to Year 12 are taking part.

For this production the Nambucca Valley Christian Community School has taken the unique step of having two separate casts, doubling the

number of students able to participate.

Auditions were held during term one and since that time students have been working hard after school to develop their characters through rehearsals, learning lines and curating their costumes.

In addition to acting, the students have been key players in all aspects of the production process such as set design, lighting and sound, make-up, programming and backstage crew.

The holistic approach taken by the school provides an opportunity for students to cultivate performance skills, collaborating on a large-scale production whilst working with peers they may never have worked with before.

Nambucca Valley

Christian Community School drama teacher Barbara Parker told News Of The Area, “I have

The Urunga Small Sculpture Prize

By Andrew VIVIAN

THE Urunga Small Sculpture Prize is fast becoming one of the premier rural sculpture competitions in NSW.

Conceived in 2018, the Urunga Small Sculpture Prize was originally locally based and all of the 40 to 50 entries in the first few years were from the local area.

In 2020 the Art Space Urunga received a small grant which allowed them to extend the reach of the Small Sculpture Prize for 2021.

They set up a stand-alone website, and began looking for entries from a wider area.

The Urunga Small Sculpture Prize is now national with $7,000.00 in prizes.

Now in its eighth year, the standard and number of entries has shot up to over 100.

The Opening Night and the announcement of first and second prizes will be on 16 September from 10:30 am to midday.

The exhibition of the entries will run from 16 September to 15 October.

To find out more visit www. artspaceurunga.com.

INVITATION TO A MEETING OF NAMBUCCA VALLEY COUNCIL AT THE GIRRALONG RURAL FIRE SHED 5.30 PM THURSDAY 14 SEPTEMBER 2023

Council will be holding its next Council meeting at the Girralong Rural Fire Shed, 2652 North Arm Road, Girralong 2449.

The Council would be pleased to hear from any residents who may wish to raise matters concerning their community. Light refreshments will be available at 5.00 pm with the meeting starting at 5.30 pm, with up to one hour being dedicated to a community forum.

We will be pleased to hear from any resident who would like to address Council. Any person wishing to make an address is asked to contact Jodie Jeffery on 6568 0287, by 11.00 am on Thursday, 14 September with their name; telephone number; and issues to be raised so that the details can be accurately recorded in our minutes.

ENQUIRIES TO: Chris Thompson, General Manager, 6568 0200.

already seen tremendous perseverance and courage from those involved as it takes great bravery to stand up and audition, then persist through often very long hours of rehearsals.”

Live music plays an important part in the telling of this story and the production will feature some original music composed for this show by Music Director Aaron Rodriquez.

This play focuses on the main character, Orhan, who lives in a dystopian world governed by many rules, the most prominent being that

there are only 1000 words in ‘the language’.

Finding mysterious words written on a wall, he begins to question his oppressive world, and discovers that great risks must be taken for the ‘silenced ones’ to be heard.

“This play was chosen in a time where the meanings of words we have known are being changed, and those who speak out are often silenced in one way or another; It is a play that will stay with you long after the final curtain call,” Barbara Parker concluded.

Show dates will be 6:30 pm on 13 September, 6:30 pm on 14 September and a 1:30 pm matinee and 6:30 pm evening performance on 16 September.

Individual tickets are $10.00 each and family tickets are $30.00 each.

A family ticket consists of two adults and up to four children from the same household.

Tickets will be available via a QR code on the schools website www.nvccs.nsw.edu. au and on upcoming flyers and advertisements.

q Students from Nambucca Christian Community School in the thick of rehearsal for a fight scene in their production of ‘Where Words Once Were’. (In background) Kaitlyn Forrester, Jaiden Pearce. (In foreground from left) Ava Brookes, Lana Wilbow, Jade Zmuda, Imogen Parker, Kobi Webb, Ryleigh Glasson, Matilda Quennell, Gus Keller, Khloe Emary, Rohan Shelton, Frankie Wilkes, Cayley Cleveland, Layla Hillinshead, Bella Mason, Mila Adams, Audrey Rampling, Sibylla Marriott, Grace Mamone.

q Susan Romyn was the delighted and worthy winner of the Urunga Small Sculpture Prize 2022. Photo: supplied.

Marine Rescue NSW help disentangle whale off Scotts Head

By Mick BIRTLES

VOLUNTEERS on board Marine

Rescue NSW vessel Trial Bay 30 assisted NSW National Parks and Wildlife with a successful whale disentanglement operation last Friday.

The entangled whale was heading south and located just north of Scotts Head.

Marine Rescue Trial Bay Unit

Commander Ian Turner, who was part of the crew on board TB 30 alongside Joe McLachlan and Master Jon Cragg, said it was an impressive multi-agency operation.

“The whale was entangled in

nylon ropes, maker buoys and plastic drums.

“Conditions were ideal and everyone involved did a wonderful job to free the whale.

“The National Parks and Wildlife crew are a highly skilled group of people.

“Our Marine Rescue NSW radio operators Phil Hartley and Rick Turvey were also vital in providing radio communications during the operation.

“It was a great team effort,” Mr Turner said.

Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.

q The entangled whale was heading south and located just north of Scotts Head.

Unkya stallholder funds donated to ShoreTrack

By Jen HETHERINGTON

THE ‘Funkya at Unkya’ Markets were again popular on Sunday 27 August, and in a uniting act of support, Eungai Reserve Management were pleased to announce that all stall fees from the day will be diverted as a donation to assist ShoreTrack in the wake of recent thefts and vandalism.

ShoreTrack is a local organisation dedicated to helping young people in achieving their aspirations.

As we were lucky to have lots of support after our unfortunate shed fire last September, we decided to offer this funding, amounting to over $800, as a gesture of solidarity after the senseless losses ShoreTrack are enduring,” a Eungai Reserve Management spokesperson told News Of The Area.

As well as many of the regular stallholders, including the Yarrahapinni CWA and the Macksville Men’s Shed, the travelling ‘Forest of the Fallen’ exhibition erected their sombre yet moving display within the reserve boundaries, which attracted thoughtful reflection from

visitors.

Other visitors included the indefatigable Yarrahapinni Walkers, who had been on a walking tour in and about Eungai Creek, and who welcomed a hot cuppa and the cool tunes delivered by ‘The Shufflemen’ on the central stage.

The vibrant market is a bimonthly grass roots event with a ‘make it, bake it, sew it, grow it, recycle it’ philosophy, based on showcasing local products and produce.

As a socially and culturally significant asset to our community,

overcoming recent unfortunate losses, the organisers reiterated, “While you're here, check out our new picnic table, benches and shelter, down near the playground!” For information about upcoming events, visit www.facebook.com/ FunkyaUnkya.

q ‘The Avenue’ is perfectly positioned for perusing visitor and stallholder shelter.

120 Countdown driving program celebrates its 100th student getting their P-plates

By Jen HETHERINGTON

DRIVING is a wonderful freedom, but getting a license isn’t always without its difficulties, such as having constant access to a car, so the good folk at Uniting have developed a driver mentoring program to assist in the progress of individuals, from all walks of life, in attaining P-plate licences sooner.

When Nambucca Heads resident Lily Moody walked into Uniting NSW.ACT’s 120 Countdown office in July last year, she would not have expected to be the program's 100th student to get their Provisional License as a result of the practical and financial help from this vital service.

Uniting’s 120 Countdown program (120 denotes the logbook hours that need to be accrued) offers support for learner drivers who may not have adequate access to a car or a supervising mentor or lack the funds for multiple driving lessons, and the service offers training to assist drivers to learn the road rules and pass the Driver Knowledge Test and also offers financial support to take the test at the end.

“The program started in the Mid

North Coast, Nambucca in late 2018 and expanded to Coffs Harbour in July 2021,” Team Leader Harlan Cooper said.

“Since December 2018 the program has enrolled over 420 students and has now celebrated the success of its 100th student, Lily Moody, in passing the driving test and attaining her provisional driving licence.

“For newly enrolled learners, a couple of driving

lessons with a professional instructor gets them off the starting blocks while they wait for a volunteer mentor to become available.

“Weekly drives with a mentor also give the learner the regular experience they need to build confidence and competence, which is a great aspect of the program that benefits both the learner and the mentor and builds a valuable community connection and friendship across generations, plus, the volunteer mentors describe their role as hugely rewarding,” Harlan said.

For Lily Moody, 19, inquiring about getting support

to gain her provisional licence has been one of the best moves she could make, with Volunteer Mentor Michael Tarleton stepping up to help Lily gain the knowledge and skills to get her P’s though weekly driving sessions in one of the Uniting cars. The team at United encourages the participation of more mentors such as Michael Tarleton.

For more information visit https://www.uniting.org/services/ youth-services/learner-drivermentoring.

HERMITAGE DENTAL

D e d i c a t e d d e n t i s t s k e e p i n g h e a l t h y s m i l e s f o r l i f e

A t H e r m t a g e D e n t a l y o u c a n p u t t r u s t i n u s t o t a k e c a r e o f a l l y o u r o r a l h e a l t h n e e d s O f f e r i n g a r a n g e o f d e n t a l t r e a t m e n t s f r o m

A i r f l o w c l e a n s n c h a i r w h i t e n i n g a n d w h i t e c o m p o s i t e f i l l i n g s M a k e y o u r n e x t d e n t a v i s t a n e n j o y a b l e o n e a t H e r m i t a g e D e n t a l

@ h e r m i t a g e d e n t a l

q Lily Moody was pleased to accept her gift bag before driving herself to attend TAFE.

q Team leader Harlan Cooper, Volunteer Driving Mentor Michael Tarleton, Lily, her Mum Colleen Scott and Support Worker Louise Parth.

Delegation puts Zombie DA petition to Parliament

By Karen GRIBBIN

ON Thursday, 24 August representatives of Voices of South West Rocks (VOSWRC) were invited to NSW Parliament to table a 1200-signature petition calling for a moratorium on ‘Zombie DAs’.

VOSWRC represent over 2,000 community members who advocate for the conservation of South West Rocks’ wildlife and nature after experiencing a surge in land clearing of coastal forests for housing developments.

Zombie DA is the term given to projects approved years, sometimes decades prior, which have not been completed.

The VOSWRC and Coastal Residents United alliance congregated at NSW Parliament to table petitions calling for planning law reform to end decadesold and inappropriate Development Applications.

“We urge the state government to update NSW’s outdated environmental planning laws and listen to the thousands of community members calling for greater protection of our unique

wildlife,” said Larah Kennedy, spokesperson for Voices of South West Rocks.

Zombie DAs have been the talk of the town in South West Rocks, with the Rise Projects development on Phillip Drive going before the Land and Environment Court.

In late 2021 the developer submitted an application to Kempsey Shire Council for a construction certificate to commence works on the site based on a DA approved in 1993.

Council did not issue a Construction Certificate on the basis that the developer did not adequately demonstrate they had substantially commenced work within the required five year timeframe of the 1993 development consent approval.

The developer filed an appeal against this deemed refusal in the Land and Environment Court and the case was heard in December 2021.

The Land and Environment Court ruling, published on 1 March 2022, found in Council’s favour, declaring that the consent had lapsed and the application for a construction certificate be refused.

The developers then

appealed that decision in late March 2022.

This was heard in court in December 2022.

That court ruling published on Wednesday 22 March 2023 overturned the March 2022 ruling, requiring Council to now issue a construction certificate for the 2021 application.

The original 1993 DA was to build a mega accommodation complex, abutting sensitive coastal wetlands.

The site, originally home to koala food trees, was cleared by Rise Developments in May 2023.

Rise Projects has since submitted a new DA, which was approved by the Kempsey Shire Council on 15 August 2023.

Councillors voted to grant development consent for construction for multi-dwelling housing, neighbourhood shops, and takeaway food and drink premises.

“South West Rocks is bearing the brunt of statedriven growth targets, despite being constrained by the coastline, flooding, bushfire risk, wetlands, and landscape of high cultural, scenic and conservation value,” said Larah Kennedy, spokesperson for VOSWR.

“Overdevelopment is also increasing pressure on amenities, health services, sewage treatment and traffic congestion.

“Zombie DAs are popping up all over our coast, they are outdated developments that have no social licence, ignore current science, and endanger wildlife by clearing coastal habitat,” said Ms Kennedy.

VOSWR is part of the Coastal Residents United alliance of community groups along the NSW coastline fighting for planning law reforms and better protection of nature.

When presenting the petition to Parliament, Greens MLC Sue Higginson said, “VOSWR are asking for a moratorium on all development applications older than five years old with a view to amend

them bringing them in line with state planning policy, and to conduct an urgent investigation into the planning system.”

In addition to VOSWR's presentation to the Upper House, Member for Oxley Michael Kemp tendered a Notice of Motion to the Lower House.

Mr Kemp noted in his motion that in March this year the NSW Land and Environment Court overturned a decision by the Kempsey Shire Council to refuse site clearing works at Rise Development South West Rocks, and that subsequently the council was ordered to work with the developer to draft a forced Construction Certificate.

He noted that the community and Council were disappointed and frustrated by this decision and that the members for Oxley support and iterate the Council’s position that planning laws are in desperate need of change.

Mr Kemp called on the Minister for Planning to support the position that ‘zombie development applications’ are not acceptable, and for the Government to amend current planning laws and to define a substantive development start date or enforce completion of construction within five years.

q Greens MLC Cate Faehrmann and the Coastal Residents United alliance.

q Cate Faehrmann and Larah Kennedy with the delegation from the Coastal Residents United alliance.

q Voices of South West Rocks’ Felicity O’Neill, Greens MLC’s Cate Faehrmann and Sue Higginson, and Larah Kennedy, VOSWR.

q The Rise project on Phillip Drive, South West Rocks has seen hectares of land clearing.

Men’s Shed Bike Show ready to roll into Stuarts Point

By Jen HETHERINGTON

ORGANISATION is well underway for the family friendly open day in support of the 2023 Stuarts Point Men’s Shed Motorcycle Show, to be held from 9am to 3pm on 9 September, which promises to be an eventful day boasting an impressive show of machines.

Sea Shepherd Australia, as a joint benefactor of the fundraising event, is grateful and thankful for the gesture of support.

“Sea Shepherd Australia is reliant on the generosity of the community to fund our missions to conserve and protect the ocean as we use direct action to defend marine life and protect their habitat, our conservation actions aim

to safeguard the biodiversity of our delicately balanced marine ecosystems," said Sea Shepherd's Michelle Intveld.

After a three-year wait, Stuarts Point Men’s Shed are inviting everyone to their motorcycle show at Stuarts Point Workers Recreation & Bowls Club, to be held in the rear car park.

Organisers expect a rolling museum of old and new motorcycles to educate and amaze all in attendance, with some machines possibly over 100 years old.

The Men's Shed will cater with a BBQ, the CWA is offering home-baked goodies, tea and coffee and ‘The Little Ripper Band’ will be providing live entertainment from 10am.

The Bowlo will, as always, be providing the opportunity for cool beverages and sit-down meals.

Vale Lucy Gosling

A PINK flowering azalea has been planted at Autumn Lodge nursing home in memory of long-term

resident Lucy Gosling. Ms Gosling, 93, had called Autumn Lodge home in Macksville for 40 years

until her passing in July.

NVC Group Autumn Lodge Service Manager Joanne Parry said many

“As well as vintage bikes from early last century, and modern machines, there will also be raffles with The Men's Shed and SPaDCO helpers running a chocolate-wheel for rapid-fire meat-tray prizes,” Organiser Mark Merritt told News Of The Area.

Major prizes will be awarded to winners of two divisions.

The ‘Most Popular Old

residents and staff had experienced grief due to her loss and the tree-planting ceremony allowed them to share their emotions.

“Autumn Lodge had been Lucy’s home for 40 years, so she had formed many,

Motorcycle’ category is open to any roadworthy motorcycle or scooter thirty years or older.

The ‘Most Popular Modern Motorcycle’ is for any roadworthy motorcycle or scooter not yet thirty years old.

All entries must have current registration.

The Most Popular Motorcycle Overall and its owner will gain recognition on the Stuarts Point Men’s Shed

enduring friendships over this time,” Ms Parry said.

“Because Lucy had touched so many people’s hearts, we held a memorial service and planted the pink azalea in memory of her.

“Pink was Lucy’s favourite colour.”

The memorial service was held on 8 August.

Ms Gosling’s closest friend at Autumn Lodge, Ken Priest, planted the tree while a Slim Dusty song played in the background.

The Australian country music singer-songwriter was Ms Gosling’s favourite musician.

After the tree-planting service, Mr Priest and Autumn Lodge Recreational Activities Officer Kathy Knox shared some stories about Ms Gosling.

Nambucca Valley Bridge Club

By John SLADE

RESULTS for week ending: 26th August 2023.

Monday: 21st. Twenty players for a five table Mitchell event today. North/ South winners with 69.5 percent Rob Marshall & Phil Booth. Runners-up with 56.5 percent Susie Keur & Paul Coe. East/West winners with

66.5 percent Paula Guthrie & Daphny Priestley. Runnersup with 57.5 percent Vicky Walker & Judy Holliday.

Tuesday: 22nd.A three and a half table Howell event tonight. Winners with 60.4 percent Jane & Greg Wood. Runners-up with 58.3 Carol McKee & Amber Fox

Wednesday: 23rd. Fifteen participants this morning.

The topics today included the regulations governing the placement of dummy’s hand after the opening lead; something often improperly manipulated. Also discussed, when not to lead back partner’s opening suit. An interesting issue that is often obvious but not always. A good look at dummy’s hand is a good place to start.

friend, Lucy Gosling.

Thursday: 24th. Twentytwo players for a Bye-Relay event. North/South winners with 63.5 percent Joanna Halioris & Richard Levy. Equal runners-up with 53 percent, Colleen Robertson & Scott Parker with Susie Keur & Peter Plunkett-Cole. East/West winners with 60.6 percent Louise Walton & Maureen Cowan. Runnersup with 55.6 percent Colin Tolley & Mike Siford.

Ms Gosling had first moved into Autumn Lodge

Saturday: 26th. A really pleasing turn-out today; seven full tables. North/ South winners with 72.6 percent! Mike Siford & Kent Taylor. Great score guys. Runners-up with 65.7 percent Rob Marshall & Phil Booth. Erast/West winners with 58.9 percent Carol McKee & Amber Fox. Runners-up with 54.4 Maureen Cowan & Scott Parker.

Motorcycle Show Perpetual Trophy.

Judging and voting in each category will be carried out on the day by the attending public, with each vote being one gold coin placed into a ballot box officially attached to nominated motorcycles. For enquiries and further details, phone Mark on 0427 571 770.

in March, 1983, with her mother Gertie Gosling.

Lucy was born in Kempsey and grew up in Tewinga, one of six children.

Even at the age of 93, Ms Gosling led a busy, full life.

She would spend her days in Autumn Lodge, Macksville, knitting, participating in bingo twice a week and enjoying monthly outings around the Nambucca Valley.

One of Ms Gosling’s dearest friends and confidants at Autumn Lodge was staffer Ms Knox.

The pair hit it off 30 years ago when Ms Knox was a carer and did the tea run.

“Lucy has certainly been a big part of my life and I miss her terribly,” she said.

“It’s the end of an era for Autumn Lodge.”

Urunga: 23rd.TwentySix players contested a Bye-Relay event. North/ South winners with 56 percent Paul Coe & Robert Baker. Runners-up with 55.3 percent Nerellyn Mitchell & Peter Jonutz. East/West winners with 72.5 percent! Janet Dyson & Robert Marshall. Another great score. Runners-up with 59.5 Dot & Don Learmonth.

q The Sea Shepherd Crew, ready for action.

q Stuarts Point Men’s Shed welcomes new members.

q Autumn Lodge nursing home residents and some staff gather to farewell their long-term

Nambucca Strikers secure third place with resounding 5-0 win

By David WIGLEY

THE Nambucca Strikers clinched a commendable third-place finish in the Women’s Division Two South league, capping off their season with an impressive 5-0 victory over the Coffs Coast Tigers on the final matchday.

This decisive win not only marked their dominance but also secured their position in the upcoming finals.

Their next challenge awaits in a highly anticipated clash against the Woolgoolga Waves at Coronation Park this Saturday, September 2.

The match is set to be a gripping 3v4 elimination playoff, adding an extra layer of excitement to the team's journey.

Concluding the season with a well-earned 30 points, the Strikers found themselves

neck and neck with the Coffs United Lionesses, who claimed second place due to their superior goal difference of five goals.

Reflecting on this tight competition, Coach Rhys Jones shared his thoughts on the Strikers' near miss for the second spot, which was decided by the slimmest of margins – goal difference.

“Nambucca Strikers women had a big win over Coffs Coast Tigers 5-0 on Saturday, playing their first home game in seven weeks,” he said.

“Needing a big win to challenge Coffs Lions for outright second, the team played with an attacking formation.

“Right from the start the strikers attacked and in the second minute from a corner opened the scoring through skipper Sarah Mander.

“The Strikers controlled the game through midfield and were constantly pressing the Tigers' defence.

“It wasn’t until the 38th minute when the Tigers

ventured up field that the Strikers defence were pressed when a controversial penalty was awarded which stunned everyone.

“Tigers were pretty confident of converting the spot kick but didn’t take into account who was the keeper.

“The Tigers player took the kick, aiming top right corner, which looked hands down like it would make the score one all.

“But then the Strikers keeper reacted like she had time and time again and dived across to her left to parry the ball away,” Jones said.

With a halftime score of 1-1, the halftime team talk was pivotal.

“Players all agreed that they were rushing in every aspect of attack they needed to take a touch and be more positive on the ball, which showed in the second half with four goals being added in a strong display of attacking team football.

“All of our players performed today, our strikers got all the goals with a special

mention to a very hard working winger Ashleigh White, who scored her first goal of senior football, which all of our players feel was the highlight of the day.

“The Tigers goalkeeper was the difference today, she played an amazing game.

“If it wasn’t for her I think the score could have been

doubled,” expressed Jones.

Coach Jones reflected on the season which started on the training park at the beginning of the year.

“After a long successful year which started in January, the business end of the season is upon us.

“Strikers finished third on goal difference and now play

Lions go down bravely to tough finals opposition

By David COLVIN

THE Nambucca Valley Lions

Under 16 Boys and Under 17 Girls both battled hard however went down to quality opposition in their AFL North Coast Junior Grand Finals last weekend.

The Under 17 Girls played out a tight 3.1:19 to 4.3:27 defeat to the Bellingen Bulldogs, with Bella Crawford voted best on ground for the Lions.

Afterwards, Nambucca Valley Under 16 Boys battled hard against Port Macquarie,

but the Magpies’ finesse with the footy eventually had its impact, with the Lions going down 7.8:50 to 12.5:77.

Wilson Baade was among the Lions’ best, after having been named the League Best and Fairest during the week.

In the Under 14 mixed team, his brother Miller Baade was named League Best and Fairest runner up.

The Nambucca Valley Lions now look to this Saturday with their Reserves playing Port Macquarie at 1:50pm at C.ex Coffs International Stadium in the Grand Final.

Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club

By Geoffrey MCCANN

WHERE else would you be playing a major Tournament with Tee-up on the Fairway (albeit only the First), enduring bushfire smoke and ash from Gumma during your Sunday round, testing your nerves and putting skill with super fast greens described by some as having been sprayed with silicone, combined with some challenging pin placements, and all with great springtime weather – only at the Island for our annual “Island Classic” 36 hole tournament over the weekend. The Tournament and this week’s featured sponsor was Midcoast Trucks and BCIB Insurance Brokers sponsored the daily Classic competitions.

Tuesday was the 8th round of the monthly “Island Challenge” Medley Stroke with some very good golf scores as our players seek to improve on their best 5 scores for the year to be in contention for the grand prize – a Drive, Play & Stay Golfing Package at Cypress Lakes, all sponsored by Toyota Genuine Service. Joe Street (17) scored net 68 to win on countback from current series Leader Colin Habgood (10Kempsey), who has improved

his best of 5 scores by another 10 shots. Stephen Carr won Gross with 70. The best Lady player was Heather Gray (26) with net 71. Other players to win a sleeve of balls were Geoff Brooks and Peter Shepherd net 69. NTP’s to Rodney Kinnear (Kempsey) on 5, Geoff Harris on 7, Geoff McCann on 8, Joe Street on 13 (228cms), Colin Habgood on 15, and Philip Mander won the Pro Pin Jackpot on 18. The Race to the Hunter Valley has Colin on 346, with Steve Carr very close behind on 348, then Stephen McNeil 360 & Judy Boyle 371 – with another 7 players still to get their 5th round in, and many others just needing a below Par round to boost their placings, the race is far from over – watch this space!

On Wednesday, the Women played a Single Stableford.

Penelope Evetts (24) from Royal Hobart won Division 1 (0 to 24) with 39 points from Denise Paluch (18) 38 points.

Judith Boyle (25) won Division 2 (25 to 30) with 38 points from Robyn Jones (30) on 37 points. In Division 3 (31 to 45), Dianne Hopkins (43) won with 37 points from Jennifer Ainsworth (34) with 36 points.

Other good scores from Dianne

O’Leary, Narelle Delaney, & Kerrie Jackson with 36 points, and the Ball Rundown to 34 points on c/b. NTP’s to Lisa Guest, Coral McCann & Bryony Brownlie on 5, Thea Kimber won the “Pizza This” voucher on 13, and the Pro Pin Jackpot on 18 was won by Martine Murray.

Thursday’s Medley Stableford attracted over 100 players, with some visitors scoring well. Colin Wormleaton (7) won Division 1 (0 to 15) with 39 points on c/b from Michael Richards (7) from Kempsey. In Division 2 (16 to 21), Wolfram Jirzik (18) scored 38 points to win from Brian

Kelso (20) from Asquith on 37 points. Colin Dunne (26) top scored for the day with 41 points to win Division 3 (22 to 45) from Frank Taylor (25) with 40 points. Other good scores from Colin Morse (Royal Canberra) 39, Lee Fewings, Trevor Peter & Colin Habgood (Kempsey) 38, with the Ball Rundown to 33 points on c/b. The “Ecomist” loaded Stubby Holder on the 2nd Green was won by Trevor Peck, other NTP’s went to Greg McCoy on 5, Colin Wormleaton on 7, Garry Johnstone on 8, Colin Wormleaton got the “Pizza This” voucher on 13, (137 cms), Michael Richards got Stu’s ball

on 15 and Glen Crow collected the Pro Pin Jackpot on 18.

The Island Challenge Open 36 Hole Stableford took place over Saturday and Sunday, with 59 visitors competing the Saturday’s great field of 160 golfers. The overall 36 Hole Winners (scratch) for 2023 were Timothy Murray from Armidale 69 and Sue Brooks from Nambucca 39. Net Winners were Stephen Carr (Division 1 - Nambucca)

72, Robert Else (Division 2 –Wingham) 69, Paul Constable (Division 3 – The Grange)

78 and Jan Harris (Women – Nambucca) 72. Full result details of major trophy winners, ball rundowns and NTP’s are available on the

in the finals series.

“The coach and team would like to thank all of the supporters of the team who came to games and encouraged the group all year.

“Finals football is a different beast, however the Strikers are a strong resilient team who never give up,” Jones said.

q The Under 16 Boys battled hard against Port Macquarie.

Club’s website and member’s Portal. Uncollected Trophies will be held at the Club Office for 1 month, and golf balls are available for collection from the Pro shop.

Our Greens are currently undergoing a major renovation, and will be back in play from Wednesday, so expect them to be substantially slower than last week! Our normal schedule of Competitions resumes from Thursday 31st with the popular Open “Dolphin Day” Medley Single Stableford, the Men’s Monthly Medal stroke on Saturday, and our “Island Sunday” Open Mixed 4BBB Stableford from 11am on Sunday.

See you on the Island.

q The Nambucca Strikers Women’s team.

q The Under 17 Girls lost in a tight game with the Bellingen Bulldogs.

q Sue Brooks, Women’s Classic Winner

q Justin Ely (Kurri) was the Men’s Classic Runner-up. q Jan Harris, Women’s Net Winner.

HYPOTHETICAL

Taking a Legal Look

By Manny WOOD

The peculiarities of purchasing “off the plan”

PENNY plans to purchase a vacant block of land.

The property is in the process of being subdivided from its parent property.

Development Approval has been granted by Council but NSW Land Registry Services has not yet registered the new lot.

Penny wishes to secure her purchase and wants to exchange contracts before registration.

The vendor provides Penny with a contract for the sale of the land and she makes an appointment to review the contract with her solicitor.

The contract contains a draft “plan” which has been prepared by a surveyor.

The plan sets-out the location and the dimensions of Penny’s block.

The contract states that Penny must accept minor variations to the plan, including changes in dimension of up to five percent.

The plan identifies easements which will burden the property and draft “88B instruments” detailing the nature of these easements.

The contract states that Penny must accept additional easements if they are required by Council.

The contract contains a “sunset clause” which states that if the plan is not registered within six months, Penny can rescind the contract and her deposit can be returned to her.

Settlement of Penny’s purchase is triggered upon registration of the plan and the contract states that this will be scheduled for 21 days after registration.

If a separate council rates notice has not been registered before settlement, the contract states that the parties agree to contribute towards the rates on the basis that the Council assesses rates at an estimated $3,000 per annum.

Penny is advised that because settlement may not occur for several months, her current loan approval may expire before settlement and she will need to be confident that further loan approval will be granted if need be.

Penny pays her deposit and contracts are exchanged.

Settlement occurs via an electronic platform known as PEXA, three months later.

Email Manny Wood, Principal Solicitor and Accredited Specialist in Wills and Estates at TB Law at manny@tblaw.net.au or call him on (02) 66 487 487.

This column is only accurate at today’s date and is not legal advice.

Newry Forest protests

DEAR News Of The Area,

I HAVE been following the various stories about the anti-logging protests in Newry Forest.

As spokesmen for the protestors have accused the Forest Corporation of causing serious environmental damage, which concerned me, I thought I would do some research on what environmental regulations the Forestry Corporation has to comply with. The answer is – a lot.

A check of the Corporation’s web site (www.forestrycorporation.com.au) revealed

Dorin’s Draws By

Paul DORIN

DEAR Jasminda,

What should you do when you are watching what you thought was a suitable movie with your family and then realise it has some rather inappropriate scenes in it?

Byron D

The ALP and forest policy

DEAR News Of The Area,

DECISION time is here for the ALP over what to do with our local forests.

Environment Minister Penny Sharp has no excuse for continued inaction.

She was a member of the NSW Upper House Committee that heard, here in Coffs Harbour and around the State, unequivocal scientific evidence of the poor state of the local forest ecosystems, including the local extinction threat to our koalas. She was one of the signatories to that Committee's unanimous final report so she knows the truth.

Decision time too for the Labor Environment Action Network (LEAN).

They have failed to move their State and Federal Party leaders on fossil fuel expansion, whether at Narrabri in NSW, Barrup in WA, or the Beetaloo Basin in the NT.

They have failed to ensure Minister Sharp lives up to her pre-election promises about the Great Koala National Park (consistent with the ALP's broken promises over the Jetty Foreshore).

Finally, at the recent ALP National

Conference LEAN failed to get a commitment from the Federal Government to end native forest logging by Federal action.

LEAN's own website, in between telling us they all had a wonderful time wearing their green t-shirts at conference, boasts that they extracted a promise that before the next election the Federal ALP Government would release a Forestry Statement. That's it.

The NSW Government clearly does not realise the significance of the strong network of forest protection groups now on the Mid North Coast.

Too numerous to list, we are of every age, gender and degree of radicalism.

But, whatever our differences, we will not allow the continued destruction of our fragile forests and fragile landscapes.

In this on-the-ground fight LEAN are nowhere to be seen, their allegiance to the party over-riding the concern for the environment they so proudly proclaim in the title of their organisation.

Dear Byron,

What a whimsical, sun-kissed name you have.

The type of name that conjures some shoreline frolicking that is perhaps one example of the type of thing you wouldn't want to watch with your grandmother.

I think it is quite natural to feel uncomfortable watching explicit scenes with members of your own family.

Particularly when there is

They should either change their name to the Labor Environment Inaction Network or join us in some actual environmental action, out in the forests.

The Government will lose this fight and the ALP will continue to lose environmental-minded voters and activists who see the hollow opportunism of the ALP's $5-each-way policy.

What an irony, that before the last election the Liberals had a secret plan to end native forest logging (over-ruled by the

no advance warning and suddenly you're stuck on the lounge with your motherin-law while on the 98-inch screen with surround sound and 4K Gen 6 advanced picture quality, there is a scene that would make Stormy Daniels blush. You can either sit there clenching your teeth waiting for it to be over, or you can opt out of the room altogether (does anyone else smell something burning?) or you can do what my dad used to always do in amorous kissing scenes which was to yell out 'argh, he's trying to eat her face off' which just made everyone even more unsettled.

The best thing to do is to thoroughly review the synopsis of the movie, its rating, and any classification warnings in advance. Otherwise it could be an excruciating couple of hours, as you have discovered the hard way.

Carpe diem, Jasminda

Barilaro wing of the Coalition), and the ALP promised us sustainable forestry and a Koala Park and now plan to leave us well short on both.

But at least the Greens continue to have a thoughtful, scientifically-based, native forest transition policy that enjoys increasing local support, so that's nice.

Regards, Sean

TUOHY, Bellingen.

Great Koala National Park misunderstood

DEAR News Of The Area,

I REFER to Peter Paunovic’s concerns (NOTA 25 August 2023) in relation to the Great Koala National Park (GKNP).

Peter raises good questions, and answers are available.

Peter only needs to go the GKNP website (https://npansw.org.au/ campaigns-2/great-koala-nationalpark/more-information-andresources/) for a glance at the proposal.

Since then, the current Government committed to the establishment of a GKNP comprising existing national parks (135,000 Ha) as well as areas of native forest (approximately 175,000 Ha).

that they have a mass of compliance issues that they have to satisfy before and during logging operations.

Koala protection is high on this list.

So, after looking at this information against some of the conflicting claims made by the anti-logging protestors, it appeared to me that the truth could be in one of these options:

· That Forestry Corporation’s web site is full of lies about how it operates (a dangerous position for a corporation to put itself in);

· The Corporate’s employees are ignoring the environmental rules and legislation controlling their operations (again, a dangerous thing for them to do);

· The protestors are not aware of the environmental controls that prevent the Forestry Corporation from acting irresponsibly;

· The protestors choose to ignore

The NSW Government has made clear that this will not include plantation estate.

NPA supports a process based on scientific evidence as proposed however is deeply concerned with the delays in implementing the policy.

The intention is that the appropriate land manager will indeed be the NPWS, who is currently managing existing national parks for fire management, feral animal and weed control as well as conservation programs on park.

Tasks not adequately replicated by Forestry Corporation NSW.

Strategic fire trails will be maintained; however, many former logging tracks will need

the fact that the Corporation is complying with the environmental controls and logging responsibly, as it’s a better story to continue to accuse it of environmental vandalism.

I believe that no sensible person wants to see native forests or wildlife destroyed. Surely we are a mature enough society to look at what is being done to find a sensible balance between providing hardwood for houses and industry and protecting native forests, and if some of us think the balance is wrong, have an argument about it based on facts, not emotions.

Regards,

Patrick WALTERS, Coffs Harbour

to be rehabilitated and closed (something that occurs in State Forests as well).

These priorities and fuel management treatments are undertaken in collaboration with the local Bush Fire Management Committee, of which NPWS is a member.

Currently, native forest harvesting is neither economically or environmentally sustainable, which is why there is a need to invest in genuine plantation forests.

Forestry Corporation currently cross subsidizes native forest logging through its profitable Softwoods Division and direct Government subsidies on the public purse.

Mills will need to ensure they can process plantation timbers, and local forest workers can be redeployed to national parks under the Government’s $80 million funding package.

Many of the mills being sourced with timber are not even local.

Crews are being tasked from Wauchope and further afield to claim the prize of our native forests.

Haulers will need to go back to their original areas (hopefully not native forests) rather than the accelerated harvesting occurring around Kempsey, Nambucca and Coffs Harbour.

Clearly the impacts of national parks management are far less than that of FCNSW contractors,

which have been fined for breaching logging conditions and even harvesting illegally on adjoining neighbours’ land.

There is no reason to drive our own species to extinction because of overseas poor logging practices.

Does anyone think that continuing harvesting NSW native forests will reduce exploitation of Indonesian and Papua New Guinea forestry.

Nearly 90 percent of the NSW timber market is currently supplied from profitable softwood plantations (including Forest Corporation NSW) and would be closer to 95 percent if export woodchips from the Southern Forests ceased. Pallets, fencing and garden stakes do not need to use native forest timbers from the Mid North Coast.

What a waste.

Creating the GKNP will, over time, increase koala numbers and in the short term stop their rapid decline due to land clearance of koala habitat.

The GKNP is our main hope for the conservation of koala and other native species which is why the public and local businesses support its early establishment.

Regards, Grahame DOUGLAS, President, National Parks Association of NSW.

Nambucca Women's Bowling Club

By Nerida BLACKFORD

LAST week most of our women’s bowling ladies enjoyed a beautiful lunch by the Greens Bistro in the club Functions Room, followed by our 2023 Presentation Day.

The honours were shared between our most experienced players, a group who have played for 5-6 years, and our newest bowler Deb as well.

The champions for the year were Singles- Manor Smith; Fours- Joan Haigh, Marg Duffus, Michelle Fredericks and Gloria Richardson; Triples- Teresa Meehan, Sandra Seckold & Kim Porter; Pairs- Nerida Blackford & Pat Fletcher; Minor Singles- Rosemary Dugdale; Major/Minor PairsChris Davis & Kim Porter; Consistency Singles- Manor Smith & Restricted SinglesRosemary Dugdale.

Using a points system, Kim Porter was named our Women’s Club Player of the Year- congratulations Kim. Apparently it was a very close

result, which shows the depth our club is gaining with our players.

Many of our ladies are ready for our pennants season to begin. We will be represented in Grades 2 and 3 this year. Matches start with home games at Nambucca on Tuesday and Thursday.

Last week we played our Pennants teams against their grade partners. The results were- Grade 3 - E. Brown, M. Duffus, T. Meehan & D. Mann def T. Ryan, A. Reid, R. Dugdale & K. Dale 16-15; and the Grade 2- K. Porter, K. Liddell, N. Blackford & P. Fletcher def G. Richardson, M. Montgomery, S. Seckold & E. Fleming 23-13. Good luck to our teams for the upcoming competition.

The Pennants season has been completed and our Grade 2 Women’s team are the new champions. The ladies began with two strong wins at home. Round 1 saw a win 46-28 against C Ex Coffs and the challenge was thrown down by the Coffs team for their home game in

the next round. It was very satisfying then to win again on their rinks, 42-35 in Rd 4, with great bowls played by all our teams to come from behind and gain the overall win on the day. Round 2 was a very good result against Park Beach at home, 59-25. In the return game at Park Beach, where it is always hard to get a win, our teams ended up 39 all. After leading the big board comfortably for most of the match, it got pretty shaky, and we could have gone down in the end, but we managed to hang on and get the draw. Overall Nambucca came away as the winners for 2023, a well deserved result.

Grade 3 ladies were less experienced than their competition teams from Sawtell, C Ex Coffs, Park Beach and Woolgoolga. The teams played some very close games, with hard fought wins at home. They learnt a lot from the season and will be stronger next year.

Recent Thursday social match results were: J. Haigh, B. Jones & P. Fletcher def A.

q Winners and runners up for 2023 (some absent).

Reid, P. James & E. Fleming 15-13; N. Blackford 7 D. Mann def T. Meehan & R. Dugdale 20-11; M. Montgomery & C. Davis def K. Liddell & J. Cedelland 21-17; and M. Duffus, S. Seckold & M. Smith def E. Brown, T. Ryan & K. Porter 20-14.

On the last two Wednesdays we have seen our new bowler, Hannah, having a roll up with some of

our members. She is getting better each week and is really enjoying it. If you’d like to come down Wednesday afternoon and try it out, drop in to the club and join us. Sunday morning mixed bowls is also a chance for you to enjoy the game of bowls.

I often talk about our club being the club with heart and this has been well and truly demonstrated this month

with fundraising events, our Community Expo and now our efforts to help out Shoretrack after a robbery. Our members have shown how well our club and the community can lend a hand, raise some money and offer support to those in need. Come on down Friday night to show your support by buying Hundreds Club raffle tickets and a meal.

Nambucca Strikers Girls Under 14s shine with Premier finish and Runner Up

By David WIGLEY

THE Nambucca Strikers Girls under 14s had an exceptional season, achieving remarkable success as both their teams secured top positions in the league.

The Nambucca Strikers Red team emerged as the Premiers, clinching the Girls' under 14s Division Two title with an impressive 23 points.

They held a comfortable lead of six points over their counterparts, the Nambucca Strikers Blue, who secured the runner-up position with 17 points.

Not far behind, the Woolgoolga Waves claimed the third spot with 15 points, while the Dorrigo Blue Gums managed to secure the fourth finals berth with 12 points.

Rhys Jones, the Strikers' coaching coordinator, showered praise upon Mel Jarrett, the coach of Strikers Red, who delivered outstanding leadership in her inaugural year.

“Mel Jarrett has coached this team extremely well.

“Mel’s first year coaching a team on her own, and her enthusiasm and passion were reflected in how the team went this year,” Jones said.

The unity of the Red and Blue Nambucca Strikers under 14s teams on the centre of the pitch signals a promising future for female football in Nambucca.

Cheree Chapman, the coach of Nambucca Strikers Blue, had only accolades for her team's efforts.

“A fantastic season, full of

U3A Fishing For Fun

By Bruce REDMAN

LET’S go fishing, let’s go to the Kalang River at Urunga and let’s catch bream and

flathead.

This strategy went to plan even if there was only one bream and one flathead.

The tide was low and in

growth and improvement.

“As a coach I could not be prouder of how far they have come this season,” she expressed.

Turning the spotlight to the Strikers Girls Under 12s,

the process of turning.

Rhys Jones acknowledged their remarkable commitment.

“Our Under 12 girls team played their hearts out all year, constantly battling with numbers, the team averaged

We knew it was going to be a slow start so for the first few hours we just enjoyed the moment, the clear blue skies, the sunny and warm day.

The U3A anglers displayed new enthusiasm after a pep talk over morning tea.

Anna was the first to call for the photographer when she caught a bream.

It was not the biggest in the Kalang River but it fought like a champion.

Not to be outdone, Pam yelled out a whoopee and wound in a flathead without even getting out of her chair.

The expected surge in fish didn’t continue so we all settled back into our meditation mode.

Phil did catch a consolation flathead late in the morning.

Without a doubt Pam caught the best fish of the day.

Most of the crew stayed for lunch, which is always a fitting end to the morning.

If you would like to join this group just contact Greg Artlett on 0427689400.

We meet at a variety of locations on the last Friday of the month.

eight or nine players per game.

“In the never give up spirit of the Strikers, and considering it was their first year playing on a full-size field, their coach Ricky Welsh

couldn’t be happier.

“Let’s wish the Nambucca girls’ teams all the best in their finals series, and no matter the results, this was a great year for female footballers in the Valley,” Jones said.

Bowraville Rec Club Golf Results

By Julee TOWNSEND

26-8-23

4 BALL Best Ball sponsored by the Early Crew - John, Dan & Kevin.

Terry Noble seems to be on a winning streak.

Pairing up with Marilyn Rowley they won with 49: R/Up was Leanne Porter & Nikki Laird on 48: N/P 6th & 15th Leanne Porter, 8th&17th Maz McNally.

L/Putt: 9th/18th Maz

McNally. Next Week: 2 /9 Monthly Medal Stroke Event

q Nambucca Strikers Red and Blue Girls Under 14s.

q Anna’s prize bream. q Pam’s flathead.

q M Rowley and T Noble, winners of the 4BBB.

THE RIGHT TABLE SHOW TIDAL VARIATIONS AT SEVERAL LOCATIONS

The time variation should be added to the corresponding Fort Denison time.

In view of the variations caused by local conditions and meteorological effects, these times are approximate and must be considered as a guide only. They are not to be relied on for critical depth calculations for safe navigation. Actual times of High and Low Water may occur before or after the times indicated.

Auspac Media

Sudoku is an 81 square number grid with nine blocks each containing nine cells. To solve the puzzle, all the blank cells must be filled in using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and in the nine 3x3 blocks.

ANSWERS: 1. His name was Jim Hawkins. 2. There are

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AFL North Coast teams to play off for premierships

By Aiden BURGESS

ONE game for the ultimate prize.

AFL North Coast’s best teams are set to play off for premierships during a big day of grand finals this weekend at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium.

The Byron Bay Magpies and Port Macquarie Magpies face off for the seniors premiership.

Byron Bay finished as minor premiers, while Port Macquarie were second on the ladder at the end of the home and away season.

Port Macquarie will try to defend the premiership they won last year, while Byron Bay looks to win the premiership in their first season playing in the

AFL North Coast competition.

Port Macquarie qualified for the grand final with a 9.11 (65) to 5.8 (38) win against the Grafton Tigers in their preliminary final at the Cex. Coffs International Stadium.

The Northern Beaches Blues and Coffs Harbour Breakers clash for the women’s premiership, in a rematch of last season’s grand final in which the Blues were triumphant.

The Breakers won their preliminary final by 18 points against the Port Macquarie Magpies, to set up a grand final rematch with the Blues.

The Nambucca Valley Lions and Port Macquarie Magpies will play off for the reserve’s premiership.

The Lions were the reserves minor premiers, while the Magpies finished second on the ladder.

The Magpies had an 8.3 (51)

Macksville Country Club Golf

to 4.6 (30) win against the Coffs Harbour Breakers to make the grand final.

A local derby awaits in the Under 18s decider, as the Sawtell/Toormina Saints and Coffs Harbour Breakers play off for the premiership cup.

The Port Macquarie Magpies were the big winners during the AFL North Coast junior grand finals at the Ce.x Coffs International Stadium.

The Magpies won the Under 12s, Under 14s, and Under 16s premierships.

The Northern Beaches Blues won the Youth Girls 14s premiership, beating the Coffs Harbour Breakers in a 5-point thriller.

The Bellingen Bulldogs won the Youth Girls 17s premiership, beating the Nambucca Valley Lions by 8 points.

By Max TURNER

ON Saturday the Clarke family sponsored a three person Ambrose which, as usual, has the biggest field each year. This event is a memorial for the former, and popular, greenkeeper the late Bede Clarke and his wife Dot.

The event, which attracted over forty teams, was a three person Ambrose open to anyone wanting an enjoyable game of golf.

On the serious side winners are determined by deducting twenty percent of their combined handicaps from the teams gross score.

That resulted in Dane Luffman, Rick Laverty and Dewayne Ledger winning ahead of runners up Mike Simpson, Steve Henderson and Chris McDonald.

Longest drive on the day went to Matt Clarke (A) Josh Bartlett (B) and D Ryan (C grade) with Jock Willer the non handicapper and Karrisa Collison for the ladies.

Straight shooters with nearest the pins were Allan Clarke (A) , T Kinnear (B) , J O'Grady (C grade) and Tim Wilkes the non handicapper.

Steve Hunt returned to the winners circle in the Mid Week Competition ahead of continuing good fields.

Back in the winners circle Rod Curtis had a win in the "Chook" run with Max Graham runner up. Tuesday's ladies Competition was won by Kerrie Jackson with Lorraine King runner up.

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY GHOSTBUSTERS: AFTERLIFE

SEVEN, 7.30pm

It’s a family affair in more ways than one in this fun, unapologetically nostalgic addition to the much-loved ’80s franchise. In a fitting twist, it’s directed by Jason Reitman, the son of original director Ivan. This new instalment is set 31 years after Ghostbusters II. Single mother Callie (Carrie Coon) and her teenage children

Trevor (Finn Wolfhard, Stranger Things) and Phoebe (Mckenna Grace) relocate to the scary Oklahoma farm they inherited from their grandfather Egon Spengler (late Ghostbusters star Harold Ramis), uncovering a new ghostly threat. Featuring cameos from original stars Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd and Sigourney Weaver, it’s a very amusing nod to the original, with many Easter eggs to boot.

FRIDAY, September 1

6.00 The Drum. Analysis of the day’s news.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Sophie explains how flowers fruit.

8.30 Miniseries: The Control Room. (Mal) Part 1 of 3. An emergency call handler receives a desperate call from a woman who appears to know him.

9.30 Midsomer Murders. (PG, R) Barnaby and Nelson join forces with two Danish detectives to investigate a murder.

11.00 ABC Late News.

11.15 Miniseries: Innocent. (Mals, R)

12.05 Harrow. (Mav, R)

1.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

TUESDAY

MATT OKINE IS GOING TO DIE

ABC, 8.30pm

It’s something of a relief and a delight to have comedian Matt Okine bravely delve into the sombre subject of death in this illuminating and cathartic Catalyst special. The newly minted Mother and Son star is on an admirable pursuit to uncloak the taboo of dying; after losing his mother at 12 to breast cancer and now a father himself, Okine tackles the painful subject to show how facing our own demise can be a gift. From planning for death, to exploring legacy we leave, he travels Australia discovering how medical science is blurring the line between life and death and even how some people are donating their brains to science. Tune in for his life-affirming journey.

WEDNESDAY LUXE LISTINGS SYDNEY

NBN, 8.40pm

For some, it’s the jawdropping properties that draw them into this fast-paced show. For others, it’s the fiercely driven real estate agents who will do just about anything to secure a sale. In any case, there’s no denying the scintillating appeal of ogling this homegrown real estate spectacle. From champagne-filled soirees to the persuasive, elite agents, it’s a study in hard-nosed determination and oodles of money, with drama generously icing the whole caper. Tonight, in “Business Before Everything”, buyer’s agent Simon Cohen checks out an impressive renovation for a new client from overseas. Meanwhile, hearton-her-sleeve agent D’Leanne Lewis pitches for a difficult new listing.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. (PGav, R)

8.30 Ancient Egypt: Chronicles Of An Empire. (Premiere, PGav)

9.30 New York: The City That Never Sleeps. (PGal, R)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Vise Le Coeur. (MA15+a)

11.50 Reunions. (Ma, R)

1.45 Box 21. (MA15+av, R)

3.35 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.35 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs catches up with Phil Burton. Dr Harry Cooper meets a couple of clingy cavaliers.

8.30 MOVIE: Ghostbusters. (2016, PGhlv, R) Following a ghostly invasion of Manhattan, two paranormal enthusiasts, a nuclear engineer, and a subway worker band together to save New York from an otherworldly threat. Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon.

10.55 The Voice. (PG, R) Hosted by Sonia Kruger.

1.00 Home Shopping.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 27. South Sydney Rabbitohs v Sydney Roosters.

9.55 Golden Point. Post-match NRL wrap-up.

10.40 MOVIE: Magnum Force.

(1973, MA15+lv, R) A detective investigates some mysterious murders. Clint Eastwood.

1.05 MOVIE: Collateral Beauty. (2016, Ml, R) Will Smith.

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Postcards. (PG, R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

6.30 The Project.

7.30 Location, Location, Location Australia. (Final) Property experts search for homes.

8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists include Tony Martin, Kitty Flanagan, Alex Ward, Ed Kavalee and Sam Pang.

9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mlv, R) Guests include Jamie Lee Curtis, Eric Idle, David Tennant, Lydia West and Robbie Williams.

11.30 The Project. (R) 12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

SATURDAY, September 2

6.30 Kitchen Cabinet. (R) Annabel Crabb meets Linda Burney.

7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at the top stories of the day, including coverage of developing stories and events.

7.30 Grantchester. (PGa) Geordie is on desk duty as Elliot contrives to force him to resign. The next murder case is handed to Larry.

8.20 Vera. (PG, R) Vera and Joe investigate the murder of the son of a prominent family whose body was found on the beach.

9.50 Bay Of Fires. (Malv, R) The hit men arrive in pursuit of Stella.

10.45 Diana. (PG, R)

12.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)

8.30 Queen Victoria’s Royal Mob. (M)

9.25 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)

10.15 Tony Robinson’s History Of Britain. (PGal, R)

11.05 Rex In Rome. (Malv, R)

12.55 MOVIE: Sorry We Missed You. (2019, MA15+l, R)

2.45 UFOs. (PGa, R) 3.55 Mastermind Aust. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

September 3

Vuelta. Stage 8. 8.00 WorldWatch.

Bee Whisperer. 11.00 Travel Quest.

6.00 Shopping. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG)

12.00 Horse Racing. Caulfield Spring Opener and City Tattersalls Club Cup Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Australian Border Force join with Victoria Police to bust an unsuspecting criminal syndicate.

7.30 MOVIE: Ghostbusters: Afterlife. (2021, PGhl) Two kids discover their connection to the original Ghostbusters and the secret legacy their grandfather left behind. Mckenna Grace, Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon.

10.05 MOVIE: Old. (2021, Malv) A family on a tropical holiday become trapped on a secluded beach that displays some strange properties. Gael García Bernal, Vicky Krieps.

12.30 Home Shopping.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 27. St George Illawarra Dragons v Newcastle Knights.

9.30 NRL Saturday Night Footy Post-Match.

10.00 MOVIE: Get Hard. (2015, MA15+lns, R)

12.00 MOVIE: A Fish Called Wanda. (1988, Mls, R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

2.30

6.00 Luxury Escapes. (Return)

6.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGl, R) A husband and wife are washed off rocks.

7.00 Location, Location, Location Australia. (R) Property experts search for homes.

8.00 To Be Advised.

9.00 MOVIE: xXx: Return Of Xander Cage. (2017, Mlsv, R) Xander Cage is recruited to lead a team of death-defying adrenaline junkies on a mission. Vin Diesel, Ruby Rose.

11.00 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Authentic. (PG)

5.00 Hour Of Power.

6.30 Compass: The AweHunters With Julia Baird.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (Mv, R) A TV news presenter is found strangled.

8.30 Bay Of Fires. (Final, MA15+v) After several failed attempts, Johann and his hit men arrive in town determined to kill Stella.

9.30 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R) Maggie tries to inspire a visit from her grandkids.

10.00 The Newsreader. (Final, Ml, R)

10.55 Total Control. (Mlv, R)

11.45 Talking Heads. (PG, R)

12.20 Rage Vault. (MA15+adhlnsv)

2.00 Escape From The City. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Building The Vatican. (PGa)

8.30 Rise And Fall: The World Trade Center. (PGa)

10.00 Raiders Of The Lost Treasures. (PGal, R)

11.10 Iznik: The Sunken Basilica. (PG)

12.20 24 Hours In Emergency. (Ma, R)

2.05 9/11: The Pentagon. (Mav, R)

2.55 Patriot Brains. (Mals, R)

3.45 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.15 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature.

5.30 Al Jazeera News.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 The Voice. (PG) The contestants continue their efforts to prove they have what it takes to become a singing sensation.

8.45 7NEWS Spotlight. An exclusive, special investigation.

9.45 The Latest: Seven News.

10.15 Born To Kill? Robert Napper. (MA15+av) Takes a look at British serial killer Robert Napper who claimed the lives of three victims.

11.15 Autopsy USA: John Ritter. (Ma) A look at the 2003 death of John Ritter.

12.30 Home Shopping.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

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

7.30 The Traitors. (PGl) The Traitors’ powers are growing, but this could lead to their eventual downfall.

9.00 FBI. (Mv) The team jumps into action when JOC analyst Kelly Moran is taken hostage.

10.00 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv, R) The NCIS team investigates the discovery of a marine staff sergeant’s body in a junkyard.

11.00 Five Bedrooms. (Mal, R) Liz is wooed by a host of law firms.

12.00 The Sunday Project. (R)

1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

MONDAY, September 4

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. Stage 9. 8.00 WorldWatch. 10.10 Employable Me 11.20 Matched. (PG) 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.00 Great Asian Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 3.05 Mastermind Aust. (PG,

The Cook Up. (R)

Jeopardy! (R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Eden and Remi are lost for inspiration.

7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (Return, PGl) The competition kicks off in Perth, Western Australia with friends Tommy and Rach.

9.15 The Rookie. (Mv) The team must stop a militia from detonating a highly combustible truck in their possession.

10.15 The Rookie: Feds. (Mv) The FBI pursues a shady Casanova.

11.15 The Latest: Seven News.

11.45 Chicago Fire. (Ma)

1.00 Home Shopping.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

TUESDAY, September 5

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Felicity runs from her problems.

7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (Ml) South Australian mother-and-son team, Sonia and Marcus, are hoping to impress the judges.

9.15 RFDS. (Mam) Eliza is tasked with leading the review into the White Cliffs incident.

10.15 Ambulance: Code Red. (Ma, R) A motorcyclist is thrown from his bike.

11.15 The Latest: Seven News.

11.45 Talking Finals. (Premiere)

1.00 Home Shopping.

7.30

Hosted by Rodger Corser.

8.40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week.

9.40 To Be Advised.

10.10 FBI: Most Wanted. (Mv, R) The team chases an oligarch.

11.00 The Project. (R)

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

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

7.30 Shark Tank. A panel’s pitched inventions and ideas.

8.40 The Cheap Seats. (Mal) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a look at the week that was.

9.40 NCIS. (Mv, R) A dad from McGee’s children’s school is linked to a break-in at a storage bunker.

10.30 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv, R)

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

WEDNESDAY, September 6

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Kirby is conflicted.

7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal) Hosted by Manu Feildel and Colin Fassnidge.

9.15 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Mick Molloy, Sam Pang and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.

10.15 Homicide: With Ron Iddles: Terry Floyd. (Ma, R) A look at the case of Terry Floyd.

11.20 The Latest: Seven News.

11.50 Sun, Sea And Surgery. (MA15+a, R)

1.00 Home Shopping.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

THURSDAY, September 7

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGadv) Cash chases a lead.

7.30 Border Patrol. (PGa) Follows New Zealand border officials.

8.30 MOVIE: A Knight’s Tale. (2001, Mav, R) A squire takes the identity of his master after the knight suffers an untimely demise. Heath Ledger, Rufus Sewell, Shannyn Sossamon.

11.15 The Latest: Seven News. 11.45 Autopsy USA: James Gandolfini. (Mad, R)

6.30 The Project.

7.30 Thank God You’re Here. (PGdls) Hosted by Celia Pacquola.

8.30 Inspired Unemployed (Impractical) Jokers. (Ma) Four Aussie mates set out to embarrass each other in a public setting as first aid instructors.

9.00 Five Bedrooms. (Ml) Ainsley is thrilled after she gets into a committed relationship for the first time.

10.00 So Help Me Todd. (PGa) Veronica asks Todd for a favour.

11.00 FBI. (Mv, R)

12.00 The Project. (R)

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

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

7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia. (Final, PGa) Follows dog trainer Graeme Hall.

8.30 Gogglebox Australia. TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.

9.30 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a look at the week that was.

10.30 Law & Order: SVU. (Mav, R) Benson investigates a popular radio host.

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

NAMBUCCA VALLEY

Friday, 1 September 2023

One Game Away

By Mick BIRTLES

ALL three grades from the Nambucca Roosters ventured to Grafton on Saturday to compete in the Group 2 minor semi finals.

In hot conditions the Roosters First Grade side faced up against a determined Grafton Ghosts outfit, playing in front of a vocal and expectant home crowd.

For the first quarter of game time the ball worked its way back and forth to both ends of the field without points being scored, neither side making many errors and the completion rate, particularly for the Roosters, impressive.

The status quo was broken when a well aimed chip kick by Roosters Fullback Robbie Smith got his team into ideal field position to put real pressure on the Grafton line.

Frustration began to creep in to the Grafton game and a costly penalty saw the Roosters No 12 Brody Simon break through for a try, converted by Tyrone Roberts-Davis, giving the visitors the lead 6-0 with 20 minutes on the clock.

Jubilation in the Roosters camp was short lived as Grafton’s Dylan Collet answered the Roosters just four minutes later, the try converted, the score now 6-6.

The tempo of play ramped up and, Brodie Simon, with a taste for putting points on the board, crossed the line again, converted by Roberts-Davis, to put the Roosters in front 12-6.

With the half evaporating, Beau Langford was able to recover a wildly bouncing ball that had been kicked off the ground through the Grafton line and scored a try at the 32 minute mark.

Roberts-Davis’ conversion put him at three from three and the Roosters lead was now at 18-6.

In the last two minutes of the half a brilliant team effort across the paddock put Nambucca’s Mitchel Whitelaw in for a try, which could not be converted.

At half time the score was 22-6 leaving Grafton some serious work to do.

The home side began the second half by immediately putting pressure on the Roosters and Grafton’s No 2, Liam Bloomer, crossed the line seven minutes into the half.

Answering Grafton’s points in spectacular fashion, a lightning fast line break from Nelson Langley found Paul Bell in support who crossed the line under the posts.

The try was converted by Tyreece Sines, with the Roosters lead racing away to 28-10.

A Grafton fightback ensued

and the Roosters were held against their line with the home side having the majority of possession.

With the Roosters under pressure but holding in defence and Grafton just not able to cross the line, frustration was evident from both teams and the game began to turn scrappy with the earlier flowing tempo all but disappearing.

When possession turned back in favour of the Roosters it seemed that Grafton had little left in the tank and, following a sustained attack on the Grafton line, Paul Bell was able to score again and the try was converted.

With six minutes on the clock the Roosters were to deliver a grandstand finish for the large contingent of supporters who had travelled north for the afternoon's footy.

Tyreece Sines ran half the length of the field to score, the try converted by Roberts-Davis to put the Roosters in further in front, 40-10.

Then, within minutes, Robbie Smith picked a hole in the Grafton line, and made a 60 metre run to score.

The converted try closed out the game with the Roosters winning 46-10 and only one game away from a Grand Final.

Reserve Grade

IN the Reserve Grade minor semi final the Coffs Comets took on the Nambucca Roosters at Frank McGuren Field, Grafton.

Big hits were a feature of this game right from the kickoff as the forward packs of both sides went at it.

The Comets drew first blood when Paul Tighe crossed the line, converted by Simon Kelly-Wynne.

Within the next five minutes Josh Jago-Dowdy would score a try in the opposite corner and the Comets looked dangerous early with the score 10-0 and only 15 minutes into the game.

For the rest of the half Nambucca threw everything they had at Coffs but were unable to get points on the board.

Coffs were to cross again before the period was finished and the half time score was 16-0 in favour of the Comets.

Things looked better for the Roosters in the early stages of the second half with penalties and errors going in their favour.

The Roosters were able to capitalise on this and Jason Jarrett crossed the line under the post, with the converted try getting the Roosters in the chase, the score 16-6.

The Roosters chances slumped somewhat when a verbal exchange resulted in one of their players sent to the bin.

The battle of the big forwards continued until, with 15 minutes left in the game, a series of three line-breaks took the Roosters from one end of the field to the other and into striking distance.

No 11 Chris Thornton was able to pick up a try, but it wasn’t converted.

It only took Coffs three minutes to answer the Roosters and put more points on the board.

The Comet’s Paul Tighe continued to pile on the points and his converted try was to close out the game with the Coffs Comets coming out well on top 28-10 in what was a great game of Rugby League in hot and dry conditions at Grafton.

Under 18s

THE eagerly anticipated under 18s minor semi final between the Nambucca Roosters and the Woolgoolga Seahorses did not disappoint.

Both teams played it out hard right from the kick-off and it took 16 minutes for the first points to appear when the Roosters' Joe Margetts scored a try, converted by Toby Batten.

The momentum of the game was brought to a halt well into the half when an injury to a Woopi player resulted in a timely penalty for them.

In prime field position, Woopi's Eligh Pledger was able to get across the line, not converted.

Nambucca looked to answer these points early, however, despite some great attacking play, their efforts ended with a disallowed try.

With under five minutes left in the half a 60 metre run

by Jack Margetts resulted in another try for the Roosters and a conversion by Toby Batten, the half time score 12-4.

In the second half the battle for points was just as tough and it was more than 10 minutes before a gap in Woopi's defence was spotted by Nambucca’s Euan Hill, who ran 70 metres to put Renzzo Sultan over the line and stretch the Roosters' lead to 16-4.

Frustration began to get the better of some of the Woopi squad and an untimely send off added to their woes with Nambucca’s Euan Hill adding more points and Toby Batten converting, 22-4 now the score.

With 11 minutes left in the game a perfectly placed chip kick by Toby Batten across the field was picked up by Jack Margetts who scored again, not converted.

While Batten was placing the kick one of the Woopi players said to his squad, “Let's enjoy the rest of the game fellas as we are about to play the last 10 minutes of junior football of our lives.”

These words seemed to lift the Seahorses and an impressive team effort saw Ethan Murden cross the line, converted, bringing the score to 26-10.

In response, with three minutes on the clock, Nate Pike would score a try for the Roosters, not converted and

Whoopie would bow out of the 2023 season, going down to the Roosters, 30-10. Both teams can look back on their season with pride as they have produced some great Rugby League and their development in senior players will be exciting to see next season.

q The Sea Eagles and Roosters fought it out for a finals spot. Photo: Lisa Whipp.

q The Nambucca Roosters’ Brody Simon is wrapped up by Grafton’s defence.

q Nambucca Roosters Reserve Grade Player Dion Marr hits a wall of Comets defenders.

Converted try closed out the game with the Roosters winning 46-10