30 Jan 2025 TVW

TO SCHOOL

Storm cell slams Tweed

Storm destroys farmhouse

By Jo Kennett

A FARMHOUSE that has stood for over 80 years was destroyed when cyclonic winds hit Wooyung on Thursday, January 23, as a young family huddled inside, with part of the roof blocking Wooyung Road.

The farmer, his fiancée, and their 18-month-old daughter were inside when the wind, registering up to 119 km/h down the road at Byron Bay and edging into Category 3 cyclone strength, hit.

“We had lightning all around us and there was literally lightning and then immediately the bang every time so it was right on top of us,” the farmer said.

“We were going to leave the house because it really started to shake and one of the windows broke and it started to lift.

“As we came out the door I saw the electrical line that comes into the house was down and there were puddles and it was live so I thought, nah, bugger that.

“We couldn’t go anywhere because the live wire was all round our cars so we were stuck here.”

The family took shelter in the centre of the house away from the windows.

“Just as we got there the brick chimney came through and landed about three metres away from us,” the farmer said.

and it was raining on us and everything is ruined, everything is totalled.”

The farmer rang Triple Zero to let them know about the live powerline, but had to call again when no one came.

“I had to ring again and say, ‘Hey guys, it’s kind of an emergency, it’s literally live, and they didn’t know about it. They (Essential Energy) got here after that and did a quick disconnect,” he said.

“We bought a shipping container yesterday and started salvaging some things like power tools.

“The roof has gone through the new fence we put up last year and part of it was across the road and some of it was in the paddock 300 or 400 metres away from where it started.

“The only piece of tin hanging on is the one that had the Starlink satellite on it.”

The former pilot said he had experienced

years ago and the previous owner put a new roof on four years ago. The farmer said there was hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage including to the home, fences with trees over them, the roof came off part of a shed and their car was damaged when part of the house fell on it.

“They wouldn’t be able to insure this for what the insurance was so it will just be a write-off,” he said.

They pushed the cattle across the road before the storm came in but found one dead.

“We found it this morning (Friday) and there was a brown spot around it in the grass so I don’t know if it was hit by lightning or a snake bite,” he said.

Most of the family’s belongings were destroyed and as the home had asbestos in it everything dusty and damp is unsalvageable.

“It was massive, so loud. Our little girl was pretty good but my fiancée was pretty worried.

“The whole roof peeled off and wrapped around the chimney and it would have knocked it and gone with it on the way out and acted like a massive sail.

“All the rafters and all the trusses have gone with it because when they (the insurance company tradies) were going to put a tarp on it they said there were no roof members to fasten to because it peeled the entire roof off.

“It wasn’t just the tin that went, it was the framing so we had an instant skylight

worse, having an engine blow up on a single-engine plane in the Northern Territory and hit a powerline another time when his instructor was showing him what not to do.

“My daughter had a funny expression on her face when she was walking about and her toys were all wet and the roof was gone,” he said.

“My partner’s pretty rattled, a lot more than I am.

“I talked to the previous owner and he is local and has spent his life here, he’s about 70, and said it was the worst storm he had ever seen.

The family only bought the property two

“We’ve got a lot of photos in boxes so we managed to get all that out,” the farmer said.

“The chickens and the puppy disappeared but they came back.”

The family recently had approval to build a new house on the property and are just waiting on a DA amendment for some minor adjustments with Tweed Shire Council.

“The animals need taking care of so it’s good we have the DA through because if you were looking down the barrel of going through that process we would have to rent,” he said.

“I was just thinking about where we are going to live in the meantime; I might have to get a caravan and put it under a lean-to.

“My partner and daughter will probably stay with my folks on the Gold Coast and just come down on the weekend.”

The neighbours turned up with a bobcat to clear the road with council workers turning up shortly after to help.

“The neighbours have been great, they have all offered help and a place to hang out,” he said.

Seniors Festival

Local Achievement Awards

Left: The family huddled inside as the storm hit. Right: Part of the roof landed across Wooyung Road

The family's car was also damaged

Beware of the tax man

I write following a report in The Weekly regarding landlords under fire for refusing to give rent receipts (TVW, January 23).

This must be reported to the Taxation Office immediately for investigation and charges and penalties applied if correct.

This person is bludging on the working men and women of Australia — the people who go to work every day and pay their taxes whilst some avoid paying tax.

A disgrace to our country and he must be pursued immediately

One wonders how many other properties this landlord does the same for and how much tax he is allegedly avoiding.

C H Ainsworth, Kingscliff Terror on the walkways

It’s 6pm on a lovely afternoon in Kingscliff — I am on the Cudgen Creek walkway keeping left, as required.

I am just three paces from turning right to a side path when a soundless electric bike speeds past, on my right, at what must have been around 20 to 30 kilometres per hour.

What flashes through my mind? I was just two steps away from being crippled and in a wheelchair for the rest of my life.

As I continue my daily walk, up past the bowling club, I am forced to get off the footpath, into the gutter, for two more of these monsters — one with three young girls on it and another with two young boys on it — travelling again at speed and dominating the footpath.

Again, visions of me in a wheelchair and crippled for life.

What do we have to do to have this madness addressed by the authorities? They are illegal to use on any public pathway or road yet have been allowed to become the scourge of the outdoors and apparently can be legally sold?

Can’t blame the police — they have

more than enough on their hands. Local councils to patrol and enforce? Then up go our rates again to cover the cost.

Outlaw their sale? Probably too late for that.

What a sad and sorry state of affairs we have allowed this issue to become.

Craig Moore, Kingscliff Plague of illegal e-things

I would like to support the views of Rebecca Morris (TVW letters, January 23) on the plague of e-bikes and e-scooters since Christmas.

I live on a hill, and not only the teens are riding these e-bikes with multiple passengers and no helmets, so are some irresponsible parents. Some of the e-scooters must have restrictions tampered with. I followed one in my car riding on the footpath.

I could not catch him at 50 kilometres per hour. If this was a car the police would fine them in a flash.

They ride these e-bikes down the middle of the road at over 50km/h, again a car driver would be fined. Mobility scooters I believe are limited to 10km/hr.

Some person will get seriously hurt or maimed one day and my biggest concern is it will be one of the elderly on their morning walk.

For God’s sake police, take some action instead of putting it in the too hard basket and before some poor innocent soul going about their daily business gets killed.

Jimbo McDonald, Banora Point Cook has a story worth knowing

Yet again, Captain Cook’s statue in Randwick, Sydney, has been desecrated. A hand was broken, the nose was cut off, then the statue was doused in red paint to create a symbol of shame for Australia Day 2025.

In 2020, the statue was defaced with black spray paint and the Aboriginal flag drawn on the monument with the word genocide.

The people who did this do not further their cause.

The Captain Cook story is one of great achievement; sadly known by few Australians.

Captain Cook was no British ‘silver spooner’. In his early teens he worked as a farm hand and shop assistant. He was keen on the sea.

At 17 he became an apprentice in the merchant navy, during which time he taught himself algebra, geometry, trigonometry, navigation and astronomy to the point where he was offered a command.

Instead, at 27, he chose to join the Royal Navy, despite having to start at the bottom of the naval hierarchy. Again, he quickly worked his way up on merit, being particularly skilled as a cartographer, despite having no formal education.

He had no patronage or family money, but in 1768 due to his skills, the ‘snobbish’ heredity British Admiralty finally made him a captain to command the HMS Endeavour to explore the Pacific as he was the only one who posted the skill set required for that great journey.

The rest of Cook’s story is better known, including sailing within 200 miles of the Antarctic in HMS Resolution on his second voyage searching for the great southern land in unknown seas sailing in a wooden ship with icebergs all around, the discipline required was enormous. Imagine yourself in that position.

One hundred and twenty souls on board all totally relying upon you. Sails sheeted in ice such that the ship was hardly manoeuvrable on the other side of the known world, in treacherous frozen seas — one mistake and it’s all over.

The story and achievements of Captain Cook deserve celebration, on Australia Day, not red paint and defacement.

T Sharples, Tweed Heads Free yoga for frontline workers

My name is Rob Bending, I am a residential builder who has later be -

Citizen of the Year

RETIRED SCIENTIST turned Tyalgum community leader Mic Julien was named the 2024 Tweed Citizen of the Year for his outstanding contributions to the local area.

Mr Julien has dedicated himself to enhancing Tyalgum safety and resilience, managing Crown lands, securing grants for playgrounds and skate parks, and volunteering with the Rural Fire Service and the Tyalgum Scratchers gardening group.

Tweed Mayor Chris Cherry praised Mr Julien’s efforts, highlighting his role in improving disaster response through the installation of a radio repeater station.

Mr Julien’s work strengthens the

come a yoga teacher.

I have connected with a charity group called frontline yoga (https:// frontlineyoga.com.au/).

We offer free yoga classes to frontline workers. I am running a Thursday afternoon class in Murwillumbah at the Community Centre and I am looking to get the word out so that more people can take advantage of this offering.

These are trauma informed classes and accessible to all levels.

Any frontline workers wanting to

community’s ability to face future challenges.

Joining the presentation was Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot, State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin, Mayor of Tweed Shire

Chris Cherry, Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis OAM and councillors Reece Byrnes, Kimberly Hone and Nola Firth. The 2023 Tweed Shire Citizen of the Year, Julie Lowe, also joined in the ceremony as this year’s Australia Day Ambassador for the Tweed.

Check out next week’s edition for more winners as The Weekly features and acknowledges winners across six categories

know more or to make a free booking please visit: frontlineyoga.com.au. Rob Bending, The Bhakti Building Co, Burringbar

Please note the views on the letters page are those of the letter writer and not of the Tweed V alley Weekly. Letters must include a suburb and contact number for verification. Letters may be edited for length or legal reasons. Send your letters to editor@theweekly.net.au or phone: ( 02) 6672 4443

Congratulations Mic Julien our Tweed Citizen of the Year with Mayor Cherry

Six psychiatrists resign

By Jonathon Howard

SIX HIGHLY valued psychiatrists have resigned from across the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) this week, adding even more pressure to an already stretched healthcare system. The resignations did not come lightly and form part of the 200 resignations by public health psychiatrists who have demanded the NSW Government increase their pay by 25 per cent to fall in line with other states such as Queensland. An agreement could not be reached and the psychiatrists have followed through with resignations.

NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey said her team has been making contingency arrangements for local mental health services.

Ms Maisey said the result would mean reduced bed capacity at the Tweed and Lismore mental health units.

“Psychiatrists who work in NNSWLHD are highly valued and an important part of the teams that provide specialist mental health services,” she said.

“Our contingency arrangements include temporarily extending the changes to mental health inpatient services, initially introduced for the Christmas and New Year period due to broader nursing and psychiatry workforce shortages that we continue to experience.

“This means we will maintain the current reduced bed capacity at the Kurrajong adult acute mental health unit in Tweed and Tallowwood adult acute mental health unit in Lismore.”

It is unknown how long the reduced beds in mental health wards will last and Ms Maisey said there was a focus on recruitment.

She said she will review this reduction day by day and will make changes to the district’s bed configuration should the temporary arrangements impact on the broader delivery of care.

“Recruitment efforts to vacant roles are continuing and our aim is to return the inpatient units to full capacity as soon as possible,” she said.

“However, while some of our services will experience disruption, it is important to know mental health care remains available and our dedicated and highly skilled mental health staff are here to care for our communities.”

Ms Maisey wanted to highlight that mental health services provided by the NNSWLHD are — at this stage — “not expected to be directly impacted by the resignations of six of our valued psychiatrists. This includes the Tweed Community Mental Health Service.

supporting our employees and patients during this period.

“We thank everyone for their understanding and cooperation as we navigate these challenges.

“We will continue to keep staff and the community informed of any changes to our services.”

“For all other mental health services, our dedicated and highly skilled mental health staff will continue to provide the breadth of services that are currently available, however some delays may be experienced,” she said.

“Please refer to our website for more information about the mental health services we provide.”

Ms Maisey added that the NNSWLHD is enhancing its community-based mental health care by working with Healthy North Coast to transition eligible community mental health patients to primary care services.

“These steps aim to ensure ongoing care is provided to those most in need while supporting the ongoing efforts to restore inpatient unit capacity,” she said.

“We understand the challenges this situation presents and are committed to

There are now concerns from many nurses and midwives across the NNSWLHD that they could carry some of the load. NSW Nurses and Midwives Association president O’Bray Smith told the ABC that her members were “already paying for the government’s mess”.

“We are hearing that our members are already feeling the pressure and that our members are being asked to step up across the state,” Ms Smith said.

“We don’t want them to be performing work that they are not trained to do.”

In response, NSW Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson said the government agreed health professionals should work within their scope of practice and that comprehensive consultation would take place before any tasks were delegated.

At all times if you, or someone you know, is in a life-threatening situation please seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero (000).

If you or someone you know needs specialist mental health care, please call the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511.

ACTION NEEDED ON FAILING SEWERAGE PLANT

If you use the creeks, beaches and sea around Pottsville, Hastings Point, and Bogangar/Cabarita, please sign our petition to keep them clean.

WHY?

The Hastings Point sewerage plant is in need of an upgrade. Critical issues regarding the ageing Hastings Point sewerage plant:

1. Ageing infrastructure: The plant, over 40 years old, is failing.

2. Environmental impact: During heavy rainfall, partially treated waste is discharged into Christie’s Creek and Cudgera Creek.

3. Failing disposal system: The effluent disposal system via soakage pits in dunes at Maggies Beach, Hastings Point, is failing and will remain inadequate even after Tweed Shire Council’s proposed upgrade.

4. Beach contamination: Effluent is surfacing from the soakage pits, contaminating the beach and sea.

5. Public health risk: Local residents avoid the area due to high contamination levels.

6. Ecological damage: Trees near the waste discharge zones are dying due to contamination.

7. Sewage stench from the plant and pump stations, noise issues, and eyesore created by the plant’s premises, have all been ignored in council’s proposal.

Tweed Shire Council plans a $40 million refit of the sewerage plant, but this proposal fails to address core problems. WE CALL ON TWEED SHIRE COUNCIL TO PROVIDE A BETTER SOLUTION

The Hastings Point sewerage plant must be upgraded to the best modern standards to provide clean, recyclable waste. Join our community associations to advocate for a sustainable and efficient solution to protect our

environment and community health. Look out for our petition in

THE LEGAL LIGHT!

How NSW and Queensland differ for vehicle accident and injury compensation claims

Adjusting your watch for daylight saving isn’t the only thing you need to remember about time when you cross the border from NSW to Queensland, or vice versa.

For a start, if you have a vehicle accident in NSW resulting in personal injury and police did not attend the accident, it must be reported to police within 28 days. But if you have a vehicle accident in Queensland, it must be reported to police within 24 hours.

Lawyer with Stacks Law Firm, Phil Griffin, whose office is on the Queensland side of the border with NSW, deals with many compensation claims from NSW holidaymakers who have accidents while on the Gold Coast.

“There are differing time limits for lodging compensation claims in NSW and Queensland and it can be complicated. People involved in an accident should act without delay and contact a solicitor for advice in relation to their potential right to compensation,” Mr Griffin said.

“There are also differences in procedures and benefits available under Compulsory Third Party (CTP) coverage for NSW drivers who are involved in an accident in Queensland in circumstances where they are not at fault.

“In that situation, the benefits vary depending on the type and extent of the injuries and the personal circumstances of the injured person. The impact of an injury on a person’s ability to work is an important aspect of any claim.”

Mr Griffin said what you should do after an accident applies in both states.

First, call emergency services immediately if you or anyone involved in the accident has suffered serious injury and requires emergency care.

Secondly, exchange details with the drivers of all vehicles involved in the accident, in particular the driver who is at fault. If taking a photograph of their drivers’ license, make sure you take a photograph of both sides of the card.

Record the number plate of all vehicles involved in the accident, in particular the vehicle at fault.

Take photographs of all vehicles involved in the accident to show their position on the road and the damage caused to each vehicle.

Record the details of any witnesses to the accident.

If you were not taken to hospital by ambulance following the accident, seek medical treatment as soon as possible.

If police did not attend the scene of the accident, report the accident to police. But remember, if the accident occurred in NSW, you have 28 days to report it. However if the accident occurred in Queensland, you need to report it within 24 hours.

Murwillumbah High is back

Exclusive by Jonathon Howard

SHARPEN YOUR pencils and get your school bags ready, it’s back to school next week and Term One marks the grand reopening of Murwillumbah High School.

Tradies were busy putting the final touches on Murwillumbah’s oldest school this week, with lawn maintenance and cleaning in overdrive as the iconic site, which first opened in 1929, welcomes students back on Thursday, February 6.

After a four-year slog that included the reversing of the former NSW Coalition’s government’s merger of Murwillumbah’s four public schools, the Minns Labor Government has returned all four public schools to the community as promised.

Murwillumbah High School’s upgrade has been comprehensive to say the least, with more than 40 refurbished classrooms and specialist spaces, including three science labs, two wood workshops, two metal workshops, a food tech kitchen, a new darkroom, a new student support unit, refurbished school library and hall, upgraded front office, staff, and administration spaces, and outdoor areas with new landscaping and play areas.

Further upgrade work will see the delivery of a new canteen and final landscaping works to the grounds throughout Term One and Term Two.

Prue Car, Minister for Education and Early Learning and Deputy Premier joined with Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin to visit Murwillumbah High School on Wednesday, January 29, to view the

new facilities and meet with members of the school community ahead of the reopening.

“It is a privilege to be back here in Murwillumbah, just days ahead of these important four schools being returned, in line with our commitment to this community,” Minister Car said.

“We listened to Murwillumbah locals, who told us loud and clear that they did not support four schools being merged.

“The people of Murwillumbah also wanted a clear timeline to have their schools returned, which is something I am proud the Minns Labor Government has delivered.

“This process has, at times, been testing for staff, teachers, parents and students involved, and I look forward to all the local community flourishing as they turn a new leaf.”

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said it is “fantastic to see our four public schools returned to the Murwillumbah community”.

“Returning our four public schools back to the community marks the completion of a key election commitment that I am proud the Minns Labor Government has delivered for our community,” Ms Saffin said.

“We have worked with the community to ensure our local schools were delivered the upgrades they needed, so all our students can thrive right here in the Northern Rivers.”

Murwillumbah High principal Zoe Tiernan said she is thrilled to begin this new chapter as a distinct school community.

“The upgrades to our facilities have created a vibrant and modern environment where students and staff can thrive,” she said.

“As we look forward to welcoming everyone back for the new school year, we are excited to foster a strong sense of identity, pride, and connection within our new school community.”

Lionel Morgan honoured

THE LATE Tweed Heads Indigenous rugby league pioneer Lionel Morgan has been posthumously appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the Australia Day 2025 Honours List at Government House on January 26.

Mr Morgan, who died in 2023, was recognised, “for significant service to rugby league, and to the Indigenous community.”

His niece Diane Weir said the whole family was thrilled with the award, which would be accepted by Lionel’s son Earl.

“Our family is extremely proud of his achievements, and his trailblazing path of leading the way for other Indigenous ath-

letes, but above all, he was a very humble person, and would be so pleased at the remarkable recognition given to him,” she said.

Lionel played with the Tweed Seagulls, the Tweed All Blacks, Wynnum Manly Seagulls and was the first First Nations person to play for Australia in any major code.

He helped establish the Indigenous All Stars and was named in the Indigenous Team of the Century and the Brisbane Rugby League Team of the Century.

Last year Mr Morgan was inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame after years of advocacy from his son Earl who accepted the posthumous award.

Minister for Education and Early Learning and Deputy Premier Prue Car with Lismore MP Janelle Saffin during a site visit several years ago

Lionel Morgan AM

Miraculous escape as storm strikes Tweed

By Jo Kennett

TWEED RESIDENTS were full of praise for the those local legends, council workers, Essential Energy staff, and Rural Fire Service and SES volunteers who came to the rescue after a storm, many said was the worst they had ever seen, struck the Tweed on Thursday, January 23.

A father who had just dropped off his child at Freckles Kindy and Learning Centre on Kennedy Drive at Tweed Heads had a miraculous escape when a giant gum tree fell on his car in the car park. He somehow managed to get out of his car with only minor injuries.

Sascha McIlveen, who photographed the crushed car, said she was driving home when the storm hit and “within minutes it was chaos with bins, a bathtub, and umbrellas all over the road.”

More than 21,000 households and businesses were without power and several major roads, including the M1, were blocked by fallen trees, with trees also landing on homes and cars. Wind gusts over 100 km/h lashed the coast with gusts of 93 km/h recorded at Coolangatta Airport and 119 km/h at Byron Bay and further north.

Flights at Gold Coast Airport were cancelled and several residents at Pottsville said it was the worst storm they had seen in around 18 years, while one Wooyung resident around 70 years old said it was the worst storm he had seen in his lifetime.

Chinderah had 47mm of rain in just over two hours from 9am, Hastings Point had 38mm and Murwillumbah

and Bray Park had around 35mm, with hail in some places like Bogangar.

The osprey nest near the old coastguard tower at Kingscliff came down in the storm but the six-week-old chick could fly to safety.

Skylights blew out, traffic lights were out and power went out to the majority of the shire.

The Allards at Burringbar lost power to their dairy, with the cows missing a milking, so Essential Energy flew an electrician in a helicopter who quickly fixed the problem.

Locals were straight out after the storm helping to clear trees from roads and homes alongside council workers and RFS and SES volunteers.

Scotty Robson was one, who apparently, “single handedly cleared Tweed Valley Way with his chainsaw”, before cleaning up six trees on Warwick Park

at

He also cleared trees at Wooyung, inspiring one local 11-year-old to say to his mum, “Of course Scott Robson is here — he teleports everywhere!”

Scotty was apparently a legend during the floods as well with his excavator and has been offered freebies around the area for his selfless work and smile. He was just one of the amazing locals who were straight out there cleaning up the mess, our

everyday heroes.

Residents at Burringbar were reporting that many were still without internet up to Monday, January 27.

Council response

C ouncil staff were already dealing with more than 300 reports relating to tree issues from the recent weather events before Thursday’s storm.

“This has put our tree unit under immense pressure, as they respond to fallen trees and vegetation on public land across the Tweed,” a council spokesperson said.

“Yesterday’s severe and freak weather event will no doubt exacerbate this workload even further.

“We are unsure as yet as to the number of jobs logged, but it will be significant.”

The spokesperson said that the matter of the tree that came down on the

car at Freckles is now with their insurers. Council is asking for patience as the clean-up continues and sent a big thank you to everyone who reported damaged trees following the storm.

“It’s been a huge help in guiding council’s response,” the spokesperson said.

“Safety and access are our main priorities, so some parks and playgrounds were temporarily closed to keep everyone safe.

“For example, a large silky oak damaged a barbecue shelter at Knox Park, one of a number of trees to cause damage.

“Our crews are working through the long weekend to clear debris and make the areas safe again. We know how important these spaces are to the community and we’re aiming to reopen them as soon as possible.”

Council is advising the public to take care if you have to be out and about during storms “as heavy rain and winds may cause debris, branches and trees to be blown onto roads and footpaths.”

If you come across a fallen tree across a road, call council ASAP 24/7 on 02 6670 2400.

If it’s fallen into powerlines, call Essential Energy ASAP 24/7 on 13 23 91.

If it’s fallen onto your property or blocking access, call the SES 24/7 on 132 500.

In life threatening situations, call 000. Non urgent council issues can be reported online 24/7

There are a range of relevant service contacts on the Tweed Shire Council Emergency Dashboard.

Road

Sleepy Hollow.

Rural Fire Service crew, council, contractors and local legends worked to clear Tweed roads after the storm. Photo: NSW RFS. Below: One very lucky driver escaped when this tree came down on Kennedy Drive. Photo: Sascha McIlveen.

KIMBERLY HONE

THE NATIONALS for Richmond

Hi, I’m Kimberly Hone, your Nationals candidate for Richmond. My husband Wez and I have three young children, and we run a small family business.

I’ve put my hand up to represent you because Australian families are doing it tough. Family values are under threat. Small businesses are struggling with rising energy costs and too much red tape. Housing has become unaffordable for many, and the increased cost of mortgages and rent has put a huge strain on household budgets.

Ask yourself – are you better off now than you were three years ago?

Our communities deserve a leader who truly listens, understands, and takes action with honesty and integrity. Leadership isn’t about short-term promises; it’s about long-term commitment to the people we serve.

It’s time to get Australia back on track.

A vote for Kimberly Hone is a vote for change.

Man sucked into sea tunnel

By Jonathon Howard

THE QUICK-THINKING efforts of a group of Tweed Shire university students helped save the life of a stricken UK tourist at Dreamtime Beach, Fingal Head, recently.

The rescue unfolded on Wednesday, January 22, when visitor Chris Bolton was swept into a dangerous underwater tunnel after being caught in a rip near the headland.

Speaking to The Weekly, Chris admitted to not being a strong swimmer but had been enjoying the waves when the ocean’s powerful swell suddenly pulled him under.

As he was dragged underwater, he became caught in a sea tunnel that was about three feet beneath the rocks and runs a distance of about three metres — a hidden and hazardous feature of the rocky beach.

“I got caught in the rip and was pulled under the water into a daunting tunnel,” Chris recounted.

“I had no idea what was happening — one minute I was floating, and the next, I was underwater. I ended up swallowing a lot of seawater and hit my head, and to be honest, thought I wasn’t going to make it, I was trapped for a minute.”

Coming to the rescue was a group of university students from the Tweed and studying in Brisbane.

First on scene was Oscar Erzetich who spoke to The Weekly and said he saw Chris struggling and sent a friend under the rocks while he ran around to where the tunnel exits.

Oscar noticed the situation and acted swiftly after realising Chris was in trouble, he swam around the outcrop, anticipating that the rip would push him out the other side of the tunnel.

“Fortunately, he’s come out the tunnel

at the other end and we luckily helped him to safety,” Oscar said.

Chris, who was visiting from Lanchester, UK, described the terrifying ordeal and praised Oscar and his mates for their quick thinking and life-saving actions.

“We were lucky as I thought Chris was close to passing out and exhausted,” Oscar said, who grew up at Kingscliff and is now living in Brisbane for university.

“I was almost swept out myself briefly after the incident.”

Oscar said he would suggest visitors remain between the flags and near lifeguards.

“When I saw what was happening, I knew I had to do something,” he said.

“I just swam around to the other side, hoping I’d be there when he emerged. Thankfully, I was.”

Chris said he surfaced, gasping for air, bruised but alive. Oscar was there waiting, ready to support him as he struggled to stay afloat.

“He was there, right when I needed

him,” Chris said, with high praise for Oscar.

“I was in such a bad state, but he managed to get me to safety. I can say without a doubt that he saved my life.”

Oscar, however, has humbly refused any recognition or reward for his heroic actions

“I just did what anyone would have done,” he said modestly.

Chris, who said he loved his visit to the Tweed for a week, expressed his deepest gratitude for the young man’s bravery and foresight.

“I don’t know if this sort of thing happens often, but I sure don’t want to take it for granted,” he added.

“Oscar definitely deserves recognition, even if he won’t accept a reward.”

YOUR THOUGHTS: Have you got a local story you would like to share with readers? Please get in touch via email: editor@theweekly.net.au – or phone the editor directly on 0447 300 258.

Home guarantee

a smaller deposit thanks to the Labor Government’s expanded Home Guarantee Scheme.

“Labor is building Australia’s future, and that means helping Australians build their future with a home of their own,” Ms Elliot said.

“Under the Home Guarantee Scheme, a portion of an eligible home buyer’s home loan is guaranteed by Housing Australia, enabling them to buy a home with as little as a five per cent deposit, and can buy with siblings and friends, while avoiding lenders mortgage insurance, which in some cases can be tens of thousands of dollars.”

Ms Elliot said the country risks “going backwards” under a Dutton government.

“We can keep building Australia’s future with the Albanese Labor Government by getting more Australians into a home of their own and building more homes or we can go backwards under Peter Dutton’s Liberal and Nationals, who cut billions of dollars investment in housing,” she said.

“As your local Labor MP I’m always here for you and I’m proud to be part of the Albanese Labor Government which is helping more than 750 North Coast locals get into their own home.”

Under the expanded Home Guarantee Scheme, the government is now releasing 35,000 First Home Guarantee places each year to support eligible first home buyers or buyers who have not owned a property in the past 10 years to purchase a new or existing home with a deposit as low as five per cent.

Inset left is Chris Bolton visiting from the UK. The main image is the location of the tunnel between rocks. Inset right is the group of locals who came to the rescue

FEDERAL MEMBER for Richmond Justine Elliot has recently announced that 763 North Coast locals have been able to buy a home of their own with

PM Anthony Albanese with Federal MP Justine Elliot

By Jo Kennett

TWEED DISTRICT Rescue Squad (TDRS)

VRA has been busy over the last week with two serious accidents and one very lucky escape.

“We had a tree come down on the kindergarten at Tweed Heads and there was a concern there may have been kids in it and whether it was structurally safe,” Deputy Captain Rhett Murray told The Weekly.

“That’s what we do with urban search and rescue; we look after that sort of stuff.

“There wasn’t any structural damage, though at first you think, a kindergarten with a massive tree on top, oh no, but fortunately no one inside was injured.

“The driver of the car saw the tree coming over and he jumped out before it hit.”

A man was injured when his hand got trapped between a mower and a stump at Nobbys Creek on Tuesday, January 21.

Tweed District Rescue Squad was activated to reports of a person trapped at around 2.20pm.

On arrival rescue crews found a man with his hand trapped between his mower and a large stump.

While ambulance paramedics treated the man’s injuries, one rescue operator kindly moved the machine back to the shed it lives in.

“He was an 85-year-old man who was mowing the side of a steep hill,” Rhett said.

“The mower slid down and trapped him between the mower and a great big tree that was already down on the ground so he got stuck there.

“We had to set up a ‘tirfor’ winch and cable and pull the machine away from it so we could free his hand.”

They also tried another other way to free the man but said that was the safest way to get the machine off him.

“He was in a lot of pain and from what I could see his hand was crushed,” Rhett said.

“He’d been trapped for an hour by the time we arrived but fortunately there were other family members on the property and he managed to scream and yell out and alert them.

“He was saying 9 out of 10 for pain but you don’t know what sort of internal injuries there might be or other injuries.”

The man was taken to hospital for x-rays to see if any bones were broken or if there were any other injuries.

Accident rescues Horror crash

By Jo Kennett

THREE PEOPLE including a child were seriously injured when a car rolled at Limpinwood, west of Murwillumbah, just before midnight, on Sunday, January 26, with the child and an adult airlifted to hospital and three taken by ambulance (pictured).

Tweed District Rescue Squad VRA spokesperson told The Weekly his crew of volunteers arrived to find a small Nissan sedan on its side in a natural drain.

“There were five occupants in the vehicle — three adults and two children — and we assisted four of them,” the spokesperson said.

“Three people were already out of the vehicle but they still needed assistance.

“One was a male who had got himself out of the vehicle and was lying down with serious injuries and as it was before the ambulance had arrived we provided first aid.”

Two people were trapped in the front and back of the vehicle.

“They were suffering serious injuries and needed extrication,” the spokesperson said.

“We did a rapid extrication of the eight-yearold child in the back due to the nature of his

injuries.

“He was unconscious and he needed urgent help, so we got him out as quickly as we could through the back window.

“That’s when ambulance paramedics started the treatment and then we worked to do a roof fold to the person who was trapped in the front.

“It was a very active, very busy scene with multiple patients and multiple injuries and we managed that with the Rural Fire Service volunteer crew, ambulance and police. We also assisted with helicopter landing areas providing lighting and manoeuvring vehicles and patients.

The child was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter’s critical care medical team for multiple serious injuries before being airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital GCUH).

A middle-aged man was flown to the same hospital by Queensland Government Air Rescue 500.

The three other occupants of the vehicle were transported by road to GCUH.

Exciting News from King Street Dental!

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Chris Stoltz to the King Street Dental Practice team!

Following our long-standing commitment to exceptional patient care, a great dental experience, and building trust, Dr. Chris Stoltz is the perfect addition to our practice. Known for his charismatic and gentle approach, Dr. Chris creates a welcoming environment that makes every patient feel comfortable and at ease—even those with dental anxieties.

A graduate of the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Dental Science, Dr. Chris combines his clinical expertise with a passion for advancing his skills to provide cutting-edge care. His special interests include holistic dentistry, preventative care, surgical dentistry, and a wide range of services like endodontics, crowns, cosmetic dentistry, wisdom teeth removal, Invisalign, and teeth whitening.

Whether you’re seeking comprehensive oral care or a brighter smile, Dr. Chris is dedicated to helping you achieve your dental goals with precision, care, and a personal touch.

We invite you to experience the difference at King Street Dental and meet Dr. Chris Stoltz. Call us today on (02) 6672 1788 to book your appointment and let us help you find your reason to smile!

King Street Dental Practice – Tweed Shire’s Trusted Choice for Dental Care. www.kingstdental.com.au – online booking available

Tweed District Rescue Squad volunteers freed a man trapped between a mower and a tree stump.

(07)5524 3399 (07)5524 3395

4A/20 Stuart Street Tweed Heads, NSW, 2485 studio-4@bigpond.com studio4.net.au

Calls to use old hospital

By Jonathon Howard

A GROWING number of Tweed Shire residents are calling on the NSW Government to repurpose the old Tweed Hospital site at Tweed Heads into much-needed housing, emergency accommodation, or other community services.

The issue was raised in several letters to The Weekly, with locals expressing concern over the majority vacant site and calling for its future use to benefit the community.

The former Tweed Hospital site, located on Powell Street in Tweed Heads, has been a focal point of discussion since the closure of the hospital’s acute services in May 2024, and opening of the all-new Tweed Valley Hospital at Cudgen.

With the building now standing unused, many residents see it as an ideal location for addressing some of the region’s pressing needs, particularly affordable housing and emergency accommodation.

A spokesperson for the Northern NSW Local Health District addressed the growing concerns, stating that the NSW Government is currently reviewing potential future uses of the site and its facilities.

(07)5524 3399 (07)5524 3395

“The NSW Government has a formal policy and process to guide the divestment of surplus property owned by NSW Government agencies,” the spokesperson said.

4A/20 Stuart Street Tweed Heads, NSW, 2485 studio-4@bigpond.com studio4.net.au

However, they also reassured the public that services currently operating at the site would remain unaffected.

continued access to a wide range of community health services in the area.

“We are dedicated to meeting the healthcare needs of the population,” the spokesperson said.

As discussions about the future of the site continue, residents and local leaders alike are hopeful that the space could soon serve a greater purpose.

For now, the community remains in anticipation as the NSW Government evaluates its next steps.

YOUR THOUGHTS: What would you like to see the former Tweed Hospital site used for in the future? Do you believe it could offer emergency housing or something else? Send your thoughts and letters via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

Their

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wellnessBeginyourhealth&journeytoday

“At this time, there are no changes to the health services delivered from the Tweed Heads Community Health Centre located on the site, and it remains fully operational,” the spokesperson confirmed.

Additionally, BreastScreen NSW continues to operate at the Powell Street location, providing vital services to the community.

The spokesperson emphasised that, regardless of the eventual outcome regarding the site, the NSW Government is committed to ensuring

The former Tweed Hospital site

Health services remain onsite

Tweed Link

Pride on show at Tweed Australia Day Awards and citizenship ceremony

The Tweed’s Australia Day awards have recognised service to the community and outstanding performances by groups and individuals at a special ceremony in Murwillumbah on Friday.

Tyalgum’s Mic Julien may be officially retired, but his busy schedule of community projects in Tyalgum tells a different story.

Mic has been recognised for his tireless service as the Tweed Citizen of the Year.

He manages local crown lands and secures grants for playgrounds, skateparks, and campgrounds while also volunteering with the Rural Fire Service and Tyalgum Scratchers gardening group.

The accolade was presented to Mic at the Tweed Australia Day Awards ceremony, which was followed by the Citizenship Ceremony.

The ceremony saw 32 residents from 10 countries – from as far afield as Sweden, Vietnam and Brazil – become

Australian citizens.

Council’s General Manager Troy Green was the master of ceremonies for the awards which saw recipients honoured in 6 other categories.

And the 2024 award winners are:

• Arts and Culture award – Tweed Coast Band

• Community Event of the Year award –Murwillumbah Youth Action Group for Murbah Youth Fest

• Senior Ambassador award – Phil Eizenberg

• Sporting Achievement of the Year – Group the U16 Boys Tweed Valley Basketball Representative team

• 2024 Sporting Achievement – individual category (two winners) – Dane Henry and Isabella Millar

• Volunteer of the Year (Group) – the Tyalgum Scratchers

• 2024 Volunteer of the Year – Individual – Gary Setchell

• Young Achiever in Community Service – Jeff Dunne.

For more information on the Tweed Australia Day Awards, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/australia-day and Tweed Shire Council’s YouTube channel for videos of each award winner.

Have your say at a Climate Action Café in February

This February, Council is hosting two Climate Action Café events to inspire residents to lead and support community-led climate projects.

The free events will be held at Murwillumbah RSL on Wednesday February 19 and Cabarita Beach Bowls and Sports Club on Saturday 22 February.

Community members are encouraged to bring their ideas and will be asked to prioritise communityled projects that they would like to lead, develop or support.

Council’s Climate Change and Sustainability Program Leader Debbie Firestone said the events were open to everyone and encouraged residents to attend.

“These events are informal, fun workshops designed to encourage discussion and decision-making on local community-led climate priorities,” Ms Firestone said.

“Topics which will be explored at the events include transport, energy, food systems, biodiversity and land use, circular economy and waste and coast and waterways.

“If you have an idea for a project that can make a difference, we’d love you to join us and help shape collective action.”

The community members and prioritised projects will be supported by the new Community Climate Action Group who will be available as leaders, mentors or supporters of these projects. The Community Climate Action Group was recently formed after receiving 33 applications to join the group, showing that interest is high in the community for getting involved.

Key event details:

Climate Action Café #1 – Murwillumbah RSL Wednesday 19 February, 5 to 8:30 pm (NSW time)

Climate Action Café #2 – Cabarita Beach Bowls and Sports Club – Saturday 22 February 12 noon to 3:30 pm (NSW time)

Registrations are essential. Light refreshments will be provided. Book your spot at tweed.nsw.gov.au/climate-action

In brief ... Tyalgum Road closure

There will be a temporary closure of Tyalgum Road on Monday 3 February from 9 am to 3 pm, weather permitting, to allow the heavy equipment demobilisation. Motorists are advised to make alternative travel arrangements during these times. Tyalgum will be accessible via Limpinwood and Byrrill/Brays Creek Roads.

VMS boards will keep motorists up to date if there are any changes.

Tweed Emergency Dashboard

The Tweed Emergency Dashboard provides a 24/7 source of real-time emergency information for residents, businesses and visitors to the Tweed.

Listen to ABC radio, view the flood cameras, and keep updated about weather warnings, power outages, road closures and more.

To find out more, visit: emergency.tweed.nsw.gov.au Bookmark it or save it to your home screen.

Thank you for your feedback

We received 97 online survey responses and about 20 paper submissions for the Tweed Coastal Creeks Flood Risk Management Study. Your feedback will influence how we tackle flooding in the Tweed Coastal Creeks area. The draft flood study is being developed and will include local insights and past flood experiences. A second round of consultation will be open later in the year.

Register at yoursaytweed.com.au to be involved.

Museum's Dino party event

Thank you to all those who braved the weather and made it the Tweed Regional Museum’s Up Late Dino Party! Despite the hail, T Rex and other reptilians made it down to the soiree to make it a night to remember.

Make sure to subscribe to the Museum’s newsletter to be the first to know about new events and updates. Visit museum.tweed.nsw.gov.au/whats-on

Tweed Shire Council wishes to acknowledge the Ngandowal and Minyungbal speaking people of the Bundjalung Country, in particular the Goodjinburra, Tul-gi-gin and Moorung

Moobah clans, as being the traditional owners and custodians of the land and waters within the Tweed Shire boundaries. Council also acknowledges and respects the Tweed Aboriginal community’s right to speak for its Country and to care for its traditional Country in accordance with its lore, customs and traditions.

The winners of the Tweed Australia Day awards, clockwise from top left, The Tyalgum Scratchers, Isabella Soler, Jeff Dunne, Gary Setchell, U16 Boys Tweed Valley Basketball Representative Team, Tweed Coast Band, Murwillumbah Youth Action Group, Dane Henry, Phil Eizenberg, and centre Mic Julien.

The Suess family at their citizenship ceremony

Get involved

in Clean Up Australia Day 2025

Mark your calendar, Sunday 2 March is Clean Up Australia Day!

For 35 years now, this day has inspired and empowered communities to clean up, fix up and conserve the environment.

Council’s Resource Recovery Officer, Yvette van Amstel, said Council was proud to support the initiative and encouraged residents to get involved.

“Clean Up Australia Day is about taking practical action to clear up the litter and waste that finds its way into our precious waterways and other natural surroundings,” Ms van Amstel said.

“Everyone who gets involved tells us how rewarding the day is and how it has made a lasting impact, changing the way they think about their everyday habits and the small changes we can all make.

Let’s make 2025 our biggest year yet!”

To get involved, register a new clean up or join an existing event visit cleanup.org.au

For more information, contact Council’s Resource Recovery Officer Yvette van Amstel 02 6670 2400 or email tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Development application determinations

Notification of development application determinations for the purposes of Section 4.59 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (as amended).

Application details

Approved

DA24/0452 - Use of concrete retaining wall, fence, and hard stand and proposed retaining

Lot 8 DP 237054, No. 12 Bione Avenue, Banora Point

DA24/0456 - Dwelling with attached garage

Lot 65DP 1300756, No. 65 Bowen Loop, Cudgen

DA24/0482 - Dwelling with attached garage

Lot 81DP 1305738, No. 5 Bowen Loop, Cudgen

DA24/0535 - Dwelling with attached garage

Lot 39DP 1300756, No. 42 Bowen Loop, Cudgen

DA24/0536 - Swimming pool

Lot 39DP 1300756, No. 42 Bowen Loop, Cudgen

DA24/0511 - Swimming pool and deck

Lot 2DP 262412, No. 198 Bakers Road, Dunbible

DA23/0500 - Demolition of existing dwelling and structures, new dwelling with attached garage including earthworks, tree removal and swimming pool

Lot 417 DP 755740, No. 32 Lagoon Road, Fingal Head

DA24/0245 - Use of unauthorised works and increase in student and staff numbers to existing centre-based child care facility

Lot 81 DP 839006, Lot 82 DP 839006, No. 67-69 Lorien Way, Kingscliff

DA24/0366 - Two storey dwelling, pool and shed

Lot 12 NPP 286231, No. 15 Mebbin Drive (Private Road), Kunghur

DA24/0471 - Outbuilding (shed) and deck

Lot 141 DP 802841, No. 4 Edinburgh Court, Pottsville

DA24/0532 - Swimming pool

Lot 184 DP 1037521, No. 68 Border Crescent, Pottsville

DA24/0540 - Carport within building line of secondary street

Lot 427DP 1252575, No. 24 Altitude Boulevard, Terranora

DA24/0484 - Swimming pool and surrounds

Lot 69 DP 238224, No. 45 Wyuna Road, Tweed Heads West

02 6670 2400

PO Box 816, Murwillumbah NSW 2484

Jim Devine Field Restoration and Resilience Project

Work on the Jim Devine/Murwillumbah Soccer Clubhouse and Changerooms in Murwillumbah is completed.

Funded by NSW Sport Priority Needs Program, flood resilience works worth $201,000 have included:

• Repair works to the amenity block included replacing timber doors and frames with aluminium, removing wall sheets and rendering block walls, raising power outlets, and paint finish.

• Restoration works to the lower clubhouse included adjustments to the floor plan to enhance flood resilience, improved drainage, raising the sub switchboard and electrical outlets, applying an epoxy coating to the floors, installing new aluminium doors throughout, adding stainless steel joinery in the toilets and servery window, and paint finish.

• Electrical works involved relocating the electrical box above flood level and installing stainless steel stair access to mitigate the risk of future flooding. Work is now progressing on the Queens Park Clubhouse Restoration and Resilience Project. These works will be covered under Council’s Community Asset Program (CAP) and are jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments.

Current vacancies

Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/job-vacancies to view current vacancies. Subscribe to receive Job Vacancy Alerts via email at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe

Road closures

Tweed Enduro – Saturday 8 February 2025

Race starts 6:45 am and finishes 4:30 pm

Swim course: Mooball Creek (closed 6 – 8:30 am).

Cycle course: Tweed Coast Road/Wooyung Road (closed 6 am to 1:30 pm).

Run course: Overall Drive between Anne Street and Tweed Coast Road (closed 6 am to 5 pm). Black Rocks Bridge (closed 6 am to 5 pm). Residents in Black Rocks can use Overall Drive via Anne Street detour during closure times.

Please visit tweedenduro.org/roads or contact the team on 02 8507 0796.

Projected works include:

• Epoxy coat floor

• Stainless steel joinery

• Replace doors with aluminium doors

• Wall waterproof coating

• Internal and external painting

• Roof and gutter repairs

The project is underway.

This work marks the continued updated and restoration of the Queens Park soccer precinct in Murwillumbah

WATER WEEK 4 Check when your water meter is read at tweed.nsw.gov.au/meter-reading

Get Tweed Link early

Be one of the first to see all the latest news from Tweed Shire Council each week.

Subscribers to Tweed Link receive it by email each week on Wednesday mornings, in addition to it appearing in print in the Tweed Valley Weekly on Thursdays.

But that’s not all – you can also subscribe to Council job alerts, media releases and a range of e-newsletters and Council facility program alerts. Sign up at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe

Notification of integrated development application

Development Application No. DA24/0619

A development application has been lodged by Evolve Planning Services Pty Ltd seeking development consent for office premises (staged development) at Lot 3 DP 415533; No. 130 Chinderah Bay Drive, Chinderah . Tweed Shire Council is the consent authority for the application.

The proposed development constitutes “Integrated Development” pursuant to Section 4.46(1) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979. The following approvals are required in this regard:-

Section 90 of the Water Management Act 2000

Water use approval, water management work approval or activity approval under Part 3 of Chapter 3

Department of Planning, Industry & Environment - Water

The development application and the documents accompanying it may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au.

The documents will be available for a period of 28 days from Wednesday 29 January 2025 to Wednesday 26 February 2025.

Any person may, during the above period, make a written submission to the General Manager of Council. It should also be noted that Council has adopted a policy whereby, on request, any submission including identifying particulars will be made public. Council will give consideration to the "Public Interest" and requests for confidentiality by submitters in determining access to submission letters. However, the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 - GIPAA may result in confidential submissions being released to an applicant.

Any submission objecting to the proposed development must state the ground upon which such objection is made.

Please Note- Requirements regarding Disclosure of Political Gifts and Donations

A disclosure is required to be made in a statement accompanying the relevant development or planning application by a person who makes the application. In addition, a person who makes a written submission either objecting to or supporting a relevant development or planning application must also make a disclosure if the person has made a reportable political donation.

Further information regarding Donations and Gift Disclosure are available on Councils’ website tweed.nsw.gov.au/development-applications

tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au tweed.nsw.gov.au

Subscribe to the Tweed Link at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe or follow Council on:

Jim Devine Clubhouse and Changerooms after the recent restoraation works

Financial Advice

Tweed COVID cases drop

By Jonathon Howard

AFTER MONTHS of some of the highest COVID-19 numbers in the state, the number of cases is finally on the decline, according to health statistics, offering a glimmer of hope as the region recovers.

As of January 18, the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) reported 86 new COVID-19 cases — a noticeable drop from the peak of 150 cases reported just a month earlier in mid-December.

Regional Director of North Coast Population and Public Health, Dr Valerie Delpech, welcomed the gradual decrease in COVID-19 notifications, noting a steady decline from earlier in the year.

“This is a welcome drop from our recent peak of 150 COVID-19 notifications in the week to 14 December 2024,” Dr Delpech said.

“We also saw a steady decline in cases during the first two weeks of January, with 108 cases in the week ending January 11 and 124 cases in the week to January 4, 2025.”

health officials are urging caution, reminding residents that the virus remains a serious threat and the figures above represent only those cases registered.

that these statistics represent only a small proportion of the actual number of people who may have COVID-19,” Dr Delpech said.

alert for cold or flu-like symp toms.”

continue taking preventative measures to help curb the spread of the virus.

those around them,” Dr Delpech said.

These include staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations, staying home when sick, and wearing masks when leaving home if unwell.

Additionally, people with cold or flu symptoms are advised to avoid visiting high-risk settings such as hospitals, aged care facilities, and areas with vulnerable populations.

Public health officials also recommend gathering outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces, as this reduces the risk of transmission.

People at higher risk of severe illness are advised to consult their doctors, who may recommend a PCR test or antiviral treatment if they become unwell.

COVID-19 vaccinations remain a key line of defence, particularly for those aged 65 and older, as well as those with underlying health conditions.

ple but effective steps to protect themselves and

OPEN EVERY DAY

DIABETES

Assessments to monitor the neurovoscular health of the feet, identify any early signs of complications and manage issues such as

CALLUS AND

removal of tough, built-up skin, such as callouses and corns. we can apply padding to protect sensitive areas and offload pressure from affected areas to aid

Councillor Catch up

THIS WEEK we hear from Cr Reece Byrnes for our ‘Councillor Catch-up’. Tune in next week for a catch-up with Cr Nola Firth.

1. What’s your vision for the Tweed Shire in 2025?

My priority is to deliver on my election commitments and keep working hard for residents on the issues important to the shire.

Saving the Norries Headland upper car park is a priority for me and I have already moved a successful motion at council to look at options to retain the vehicle access and mental health access to ‘bluespace’ provides.

2. What are some of the biggest challenges facing the Tweed Shire in 2025?

O ur challenges as a shire remain 1: flood recovery. 2: housing. 3: cost of living. As a council we need to be working effectively to address these issues, but the biggest hurdle on all three are competing and extreme ideology of the elected body. My focus remains on residents and ratepayers and to do right by our community on all three challenges.

3. What improvements would you like to see for the Tweed Shire in 2025?

Looking at dynamic and effective ways to address the challenges outlined above. We must look at ways we can make our

shire more affordable to live in, and easier to make a wage. Second dwellings on rural land is also another improvement we must address for the community who have been calling on council to act for some time.

4 . How do you plan to use your councillorship to address some of the challenges across the Tweed Shire in 2025?

Residents know I bring a consistent and commonsense approach to each matter before council. In 2025 my approach is going to remain the same.

5 . Is there any special news or events you are eager to promote in 2025?

On a personal note, my wife Nadia and I are very eagerly await ing the first addi tion to our family with our baby girl due in early Feb ruary. Not long to go!

Tweed Shire’s

Top Tradies

WHEN YOU use one of The Weekly’s Top Tradies and Services (see here and pages 3639) you know you are booking a trusted local operator who is qualified, has an outstanding local reputation and can offer competitive quotes. These days the Internet is flooded with information that can make a simple task of booking a local tradesperson extermely complicated. By using The Weekly’s

Trades and Services you know you are dealing with a tradie that understands the local area, has a track record and solid qualifications.

Remember, local tradespeople provide lasting employment, understand the local conditions and are just around the corner when you need them.

So, the next time you pick up the phone to call on a tradie, think local and reach for The Weekly. This way we can all help strengthen our community and our future.

Kimberly runs for Richmond

By Jonathon Howard

NEWLY-ELECTED Tweed Shire councillor

Kimberly Hone has announced she will again contest Richmond for the Nationals, as the date for the federal election looms.

Ms Hone, who is a mother-of-three and small business owner alongside her husband Wez, said she could “not sit back and watch the Albanese Labor Government continue to drive the region into the ground”.

“Mr Albanese and the Labor government have had three years in charge and made things decidedly worse,” she said.

“Should the people of Richmond reward this mismanagement with another three years?”

Ms Hone ran as the Nationals candidate in the 2022 federal election and achieved 41.77 per cent of the vote or 41,680 votes, but fell short of Labor candidate Justine Elliot who achieved 58.23 per cent of the vote with preferences.

Ms Hone said a Coalition government would tackle the soaring cost of living and housing crisis in Richmond, which she said has become a “fundamental human rights issue”.

“People are struggling with the cost of the basics, keeping their children’s tummies full and bills paid,” she said.

“We have tent cities popping up across Richmond because families with children cannot find a roof to put over their heads.

“We need a more pragmatic approach to address inflationary pressures. Our homelessness agencies are being pushed to the brink.”

Raised in housing commission herself, Ms Hone has lived experience and said she knows the importance and security of having your own home.

“Being Richmond’s voice in Canberra means fighting for solutions to our unique challenges and being in the Nationals party room means I have the freedom to speak for Richmond, rather than being tied to views of Balmain,” she said.

“People can’t access homes or even find

homes here because they are not being approved or rebuilt.

“Some are still waiting for their homes to be repaired following the floods yet cannot get the work done because we don’t have anywhere for tradies to live. This is a story Canberra needs to hear.”

Ms Hone said addressing the crisis involved not just more supply, such as allowing second dwellings on rural properties, which she champions at a council level, but also attacking pressures driving up housing costs.

“We cannot reward the Albanese government’s last three years of mismanagement with yet another three years of being in charge,” she said.

Ms Hone said the Coalition government would deliver on 12 priorities, which include focusing on practical action for Indigenous Australians, and as such, has made restoring public access to Mount Warning (Wollumbin) a cornerstone of her campaign.

“We need a culturally appropriate tourism model that respects the significance of Wollumbin and ensures that funds generated will support its preservation and the local community,” she said.

Kimberly Hone is running for Richmond this year

TO

ognition of stallholders joining our market – so our stallholder market anniversaries. This month we celebrate the following stallholders and thank them for their commitment over the years to our market:

• Toby at Johny’s Garden - 2 years

• Warren and Marina at Local Dorper Lamb - 4 years

• Junji and the team at Oki Food - 6 years

• Bron, Andrew and the team at Otherworld Wholefoods – 6 years

Let’s start off the year with a bit of gratitude for two wonderful humans that support me each week at the market - they are of course Gav and Jade and you will see them each and every week at our wash station. Our wash station is a massive part of our sustainability journey as most of our waste came from single-use cups, plates, bowls and cutlery. The community response has been fantastic with everyone so grateful for someone

else to do the washing up! Our food vendors also saved some money by not having to purchase as many single use items. As well as all the positive feedback about the wash up station we have also managed to get out rubbish down from 5 wheelie bins per week to less than 2!

In other news, you may have noticed that Toby and the stall over at Johny’s Garden has not returned to the market since the Christmas break. Toby is taking a short break from the market to allow their fields to rest and rejuvenate in time for the abundant autumn and winter seasons. Toby tells us that they are also using this “rest” period to start implementing new growing methods to enhance the future of their farm and the quality of the produce they offer. While Johny’s Garden won’t be at the market for a short time they would love us to stay connected with each of us and invite us to follow their journey on Instagram @ag_venture. Johny’s Garden anticipate being back at the market in Autumn – we are already counting down the days!

With love and gratitude, Claire

What’s in season, tasty and interesting at the market this month?

Just before Christmas did you notice the wonderful smell under the shed? That scrumptious smell was coming from our lovely Tusta at Heart and Halo’s stall and it turns out that Tusta had enrolled Amiyra and they were trialling their delicious hot pakoras – we were the very lucky guinea pigs. On top of this Tusta had on offer new mango lassi’s and iced drinks. A massive thank you to Tusta and Amiyra for their extra hard work. Head over to see Tusta to see what all the fuss is about in the coming weeks while Tusta is doing his trial of these new offerings. The lovely Lyn and Tim from Mad Mountain have now returned to the market after their short break. Hooray! Lyn and Tim tell us that they have Mizuna in at the moment. Mizuna is a leafy green with a slightly peppery taste like Aragula yet milder and sweeter and is the perfect green for salads

and stir frys. Lyn and Tim tell us that we all need Mizuna in our garden as it is high in nutrients, low in calories, rich in vitamins A and C which promotes a strong immune system, contains vitamin K, calcium and iron and rich in antioxidants. Mizuna is an all around a fabulous green to have in your garden. Pick a few leaves to add to your daily salads, stir-frys, green smoothie or salad sandwiches.

In exciting news this month, Andy from Costanzo Apples has had plums and nectarines –delicious! Another reason why seasonal eating is so great as we get to indulge yet again! The vitamin C in plums helps your body heal, build muscle, and form blood vessels. It’s great for your eyes, our digestive systems and is also an antioxidant. Plums are great snacks just as they are, they’re a great addition to a salad, dessert, baking and even in sauces. What a versatile fruit. Head over to see Andy while the season lasts.

In other news, we have a new stall joining us for a trial at the moment, Buchi Kombucha. Carolyn at Buchi tells us that Buchi Kombucha products are loving hand crafted ferments created by a soulful team of local brewers, farmers, foodies & health professionals. The mission of Buchi is to produce premium, local, sustainable ferments for everyone. Buchi’s focus is on brewing locally and using only local, certified organic ingredients but has a global view allowing for expansion into new regions within Australia and beyond. Please join us in welcoming Carolyn to the market - what a wonderful addition to our market!

When and where?

When: EVERY Wednesday from 7am to 11am - come rain or shine!

Where: Murwillumbah

Showground

There will be a different local musician at the market every week - so come along, gather with friends and family and get stocked up on your fresh, local and seasonal produce!

Market Contact Details

Market Manager: Claire Strodder Email: hello@murbahfarmersmarket.com.au

Mobile: 0415 328 672

Housing strategy deferred

Exclusive by Jo Kennett

TWEED SHIRE councillors will attend a workshop on the Growth Management Housing Strategy (GMHS) Options Paper in late February, after deferring its implementation in December, awaiting the “provision of a high-level-multi-criteria analysis of all 83 options.”

At the council meeting in December, Mayor Chris Cherry moved an alternate resolution to what was proposed by council staff, saying it was the most important document in her nine years at council and “is the one we have to get right because it’s about the growth over the next 20 years and it’s really important that this strategy matches what our community wants.”

“We had over 650 submissions and this is a really important one to get right,” she said.

Councillors voted unanimously to defer the implementation of the paper.

“Staff are working through the multi-criteria analysis (MCA) through January and February and are aiming to present this at a workshop to councillors at the end of February,” Cr Cherry said.

“The MCA is about providing councillors with a robust tool to base their support of options for growth going forward.

“This request was not made to delay decision-making but to ensure we are basing options moving forward on what will keep our commu-

nity safe into the future and the submissions we have received from our residents.

“I have the experience of seeing that whatever is included in a growth strategy like this needs to be what is definitely supported by council, otherwise, if you allow things in there as future investigation areas et cetera then inevitably developers will make investments into those areas, understanding that they will be able to develop it into the future and if this is then found to be impacted by sea level rise or coastal erosion or other constraints and development is not supported on the site, we get conflict and distrust.

“We want to avoid that going forward, so that is why it is so important.”

Cr Cherry said the number of options from 83 down to 27 “is good” but when she looked into it, a lot of those changes had just been amalgamated into the 27 and there had been a loss of transparency as a result.

“We know we need growth and we want growth, we want somewhere for our children to live but let’s look at the ones that are going to be climate resilient and let’s look at the ones that are going to be supportive of our community and move forward with those ones,” she said.

She added that the inclusion of some proposals in the paper was used to bring forward proposals that didn’t necessarily have merit and gave them weight.

Councillor Rhiannon Brinsmead said she supported the deferral and that she didn’t think it was a good idea to have placed this item on the agenda at the end of the year.

She said the community and councillors need more time to absorb “the complex and dense” information in the paper.

“It would be remiss of council to rush it through and not give it the consideration it deserves,” she said.

Cr James Owen asked if the extra work would

impact development application assessment times and was told by council staff that it potentially could, but voted in favour of the deferral.

Cr Firth also spoke in favour of the deferral. The options paper proposed some areas for increased housing that residents and councillors questioned. The growth figures that were used in the report on the plan had also been questioned, being double the state government’s projected population growth and not including large housing projects such as Kings Forest and Cobaki Lakes which have already been approved and in the case of Kings Forest are well underway.

There were concerns raised to The Weekly that the strategy would open the gates to unfettered development regardless of whether land was suitable or not.

Some options have been taken out of version 2 of the options report, such as the use of Hastings Point foreshore and Kingscliff sports fields for housing.

Another change that was left in the paper involved the proposed Cudgen Connections

project on State Significant Farmland next to the new hospital on the corner of Cudgen Road and Tweed Coast Road at Cudgen.

Council voted at a Planning Committee Meeting in May 2024 to not support an amendment to the Tweed Local Environmental Plan 2014 that proposed “development of a mixed-use development comprising of a private medical hospital, essential workers accommodation delivered under a build to rent system for workers, medi-hotel, research facility and accompanying uses including retail, open space, childcare and community facility” on the site.

The applicant, developer Allan Larkin, Director of Digital Infratech, appealed council’s resolution, and a determination was made by the Northern Regional Planning Panel in September 2024 to proceed with the lodgement of the planning proposal for a gateway determination. It has been left in the GMHS Options Paper as a result.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Would you like to see the strategy approved or altered? Send your thoughts and letters via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

It's been described as the Tweed's most important document and one councillors want to

Big Country Radio

Catch Thirst Trap

By Madeleine Murray

LOCAL BAND Thirst Trap is playing a free show at the Cabarita Beach Bowls & Sports Club on Saturday, February 8.

After kicking off their first headliner called the Day Away Tour to a packed house at Miami Marketta’s Best Night Ever on December 28, Thirst Trap played in Sydney and Newcastle, and will be in Nambour and Brisbane before finishing the tour at Cabarita.

“The tour is going great,” keyboardist Biku Wernick-Aqorau told The Weekly.

“We get to live the dream, meet new people, and share the art we’ve worked so hard to create.”

Thirst Trap has been together for two years.

“We’ve been friends for a long time,” Biku said.

“Django and I have been friends since we were 14. He taught me to play the guitar.”

Sam Parker plays lead guitar, Django Dillon is lead singer and on rhythm guitar, Biku is on keyboards and does some rapping, Will Mitrakis is on drums, and Seth Baker is on bass.

“Django’s grandad Paul Cunningham has been a great support,” Biku said.

“He lets us rehearse at his place. Paul has been a musician his whole life and he encourages us.

“We’re doing well as a band. Since we’ve been together, we’ve been consistently releasing music, playing shows, writing and recording. We released five songs last year.”

Known for their unique blend of hip-hop beats, heavy rock energy, and reggae grooves, Thirst

Trap have been making waves across the Northern Rivers and beyond since their debut in 2023. Their high-energy live shows have made them local favourites, and now they’re ready to celebrate their tour finale with a hometown crowd. Joining them for the night is Off Judy, a Byron Bay band known for their high-energy and catchy tunes.

This family-friendly event will have live music, good vibes, and community spirit — perfect for music lovers of all ages.

Thirst Trap will be playing from 4:30 pm onwards on Saturday, February 8, at the Cabarita Beach Bowls & Sports Club, Cabarita Road, Cabarita Beach. To listen to their music, go to Spotify, Apple or other platforms.

atch up with Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin

National Autism Strategy

IN JANUARY the Albanese Labor Government released the National Autism Strategy for an inclusive society where autistic people are supported to thrive in all aspects of life, in line with international human rights. I welcome this landmark announcement that I have been eagerly waiting for and for which I have always advocated.

The National Autism Strategy was developed following the inquiry by the Senate Select Committee on autism that highlighted the serious challenges faced by autistic people and their families in Australia. Autistic people have a life expectancy more than 20 years shorter than the general population, an unemployment rate almost eight times the general population, and experience high levels of social exclusion, discrimination, loneliness and isolation. In announcing the strategy the Federal Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth said addressing the barriers autistic people face in areas like education, employment and diagnosis was long overdue.

The National Autism Strategy and Action plan focuses on four key reform areas: social inclusion; economic inclusion; diagnosis, services and support; and health.

The first action plan includes $42.3 million in funding for programs including:

• A peer support program to provide lived-experience knowledge, empathy and culturally tailored advice for autistic people in groups they resonate with. Something that more formal systems might not be able to offer.

•Enhancing community understanding, awareness and acceptance of autism through new awareness and education initiatives.

•Improving the diagnosis process through resources to support autistic people and their families with pre- and post-diagnosis information.

•Boosting pathways to meaningful employment.

•A dedicated knowledge translation body, which will ensure academic research into neurodiversity informs and improves the policies and services impacting autistic people’s lives day to day.

•Identifying ways to improve Australian Government services, supports, information and the safety and welfare of autistic people.

•A comprehensive epidemiological study to identify the true prevalence of autism in Australia, which will underpin future policy development.

The National Autism Strategy together with its first action plan means I now will be able to better encourage a comprehensive response at a regional and state level.

The National Strategy points out the areas where the states deliver services including public hospital, community health services, schools, pre-schools and TAFE, police and courts and correctional centres, public transport, child protection, domestic and family violence services, and major sporting facilities.

This list makes it clear we now need a strategy at the state level.

I have long been pushing for a NSW Autism Strategy in the Parliament and have supported local advocates who have been calling for this because I understand the significant challenges faced by autistic people in our community, particularly in regional areas.

Three years ago I hosted a roundtable discussion on autism in my office and from that meeting the seeds were sown for the Northern Rivers Autism Association Limited (NRAA).

I acknowledge the Founder and Chair of NRAA Micheal Lynch, who with Business NSW’s Regional Director Northern Rivers Jane Laverty, drove local consultations which helped to inform the national strategy.

Like me, Micheal is very keen to see the first NSW Autism Strategy become a reality.

Thirst Trap is making waves across the Northern Rivers and you can catch them at Cabarita

Winners are grinners

IT WAS all smiles at the Gold Coast Tweed Motorsport Club Awards Night last weekend.

Awards recognised those drivers who achieved major placings in the club’s 2024 competition calendar, primarily the Baden Civil Khanacross series.

In the junior competition, local Murwillumbah driver Jude Livermore achieved overall equal first place and first place in Class B. Jude is a keen competitor and also competes in the Murwillumbah Sporting Car Club Khanacross and is a past participant in their Young Driver Program.

“It was an awesome year with heaps of fun and close competition,” Jude told The Weekly.

“This would not possible without the huge support from firstly my parents, but also my local sponsors Burson Autoparts, Pedders Brake and Suspension, Halls Tyre Service and the Murwillumbah Sporting Car Club (MSCC).”

MSCC President Darren Holland congratulated Jude and said it was a team effort.

“Both our car clubs work together to achieve these events,” Mr Holland said.

“All staffed by volunteers, accredited by Motorsport Australia and funded locally by Murwillumbah businesses, state and federal Governments.

“Motorsport and related activities are expensive.

“The club executive endeavors to keep costs to a minimum respecting the current economic climate, fees and charges borne throughout the year by parents/guardians in keeping a student/s at school, in running a family and meeting other expenses.”

Rob Learmonth, club foundation member and director of the Young Driver Program (YDP), said the program has gone from strength to strength.

“Our highly successful Young Driver Program, targeting senior secondary students from the region’s secondary schools is a big drawcard for those seniors and juniors wishing to join our club,” he said.

“In the new year we will be seeking out secondary schools wishing to be involved in our Garage Days, Driving Skills mornings and Khanacross events.

“For additional information grab the chance to attend our up and coming membership day and Show and Shine Day, Sunday, February 16, Condong Bowls Club, commencing at 10am until 1pm. Grab a free sausage, hear more, join up and enjoy the cars.”

Beauty of a local cosmetic salon

By Madeleine Murray

THE COSMETIC TATTOO AND BEAUTY BAR has a welcoming atmosphere and does an excellent job of many different treatments from facials to cosmetic tattooing.

The Weekly visited recently and came away very satisfied with enhanced eyebrows. This journalist went to the salon on a friend’s recommendation. It took two pleasant visits for the owner Kathy Ward to do my eyebrows.

First, she took some photos of my ‘before’ eyebrows, which were a bit straggly and ill defined. I chose my eyebrow shape from a sample card, and then the colour.

I lay down in the relaxing room, and after some very careful preparation with tapes and anaesthetic on my brows, Kathy worked gently for about two hours with a very fine tattoo needle. There was no pain at all, just a slight tickling sensation, and I enjoyed laying there talking to Kathy, and listening to an appealing music playlist.

Kathy was very thorough with the aftercare instructions and creams. At first I was a bit alarmed when I got home and thought I looked like an angry clown but after a few days it all settled down.

I returned six weeks later and Kathy put the final touches on. I am very happy with my new look, and enjoy not having to put eyebrow pencil on every morning.

A beauty therapist with over 35 years experience, Kathy has worked and taught in the Tweed for over two decades.

Kathy’s passion for her craft is matched only by her dedication to her family, which includes her 25-year-old triplets, who also live and work in Murwillumbah.

“The salon and my family are my greatest passions,” Kathy told The Weekly.

“I absolutely love owning my own salon. I pride myself and my staff on showing our clients that we’re passionate about what we do, whether it’s cosmetic tattooing, IPL treatments, facials, waxing, or tinting.

“Each treatment is just as important as the next. We love what we do, and we love our clients — it really shows.”

The salon employs two talented therapists, Nicole and Harmonii, who, along with Kathy, continually update their skills to provide topnotch treatments.

“We believe there’s beauty in every person, and our role is simply to enhance it,” Kathy said. The Cosmetic Tattoo and Beauty Bar is at 97 Murwillumbah Street. For more information, go to thecosmetictattooandbeautybar.au, find them on Facebook or Instagram.

Jude Livermore was awarded overall winner of the Junior Drivers Club 2024 comp,

Photo by CH Images

Kathy has been a beauty therapist for 35 years

19 Shout (4)

a piece of fruit (3) 25 Edible fruit (9)

Percussionist’s tool (9)

29 Steam room (5)

30 Jewish spiritual leader (5)

32 Negatively charged particles (9)

33 Yield (9)

36 Pivotal point (4)

37 Inherited character unit (4)

39 Abounding (4)

40 Chess piece (4)

Source of cooking oil (5)

Revoke (7)

Rue (6)

Move to another land (8)

Teeth adapted for cutting (8)

Play on words (3)

Poem (3)

Literary ridicule (6)

Maintain (6)

Plunder (7)

Court game (10)

(3)

Axilla (6)

decorative board (8)

58 Having a pH greater than 7 (8) 59 Small shoulderbag (7)

60 Casual search (6) 61 Vessel in which to grind spices (6)

Magnetic tape recorder (3) 69 Egg of louse (3)

Intersected (3)

by Australian artists, including Margaret Olley?

Which country produces the most ginger?

CABARITA BUSINESS Seaside Interiors

& Upholstery has been servicing the Tweed Coast for more than three years and bring a fresh new approach to upholstery.

Owner/upholster Phil Cox and his team members Danielle Loxton, social media/ interiors, and Lisa Young, sales and in-home stylist, work together to create their customer’s visions.

With more than 40-years’ experience in upholstery, Phil focuses on repairing and recovering furniture from daybeds, statement chairs, dining chairs, ottomans, cushions, window seats, caravan cushions and custom upholstery.

“We have a range of fabrics in store to choose from or we can source what you are looking for from our Australian fabric houses or overseas,” he said.

“We believe quality furniture has a far greater life span than cheap imports.”

Phil said investing in a quality piece of furniture will serve you better including family heirlooms. “They don’t make furniture like they used to,” he said.

“Lisa is our home stylist and is in store, or she can visit clients to help create their visions with more than 20 years’ experience in the fashion and interior styling industries.”

Seaside Interiors & Upholstery offer a free pick-up and delivery service from within the Gold Coast and Tweed Coast areas.

Visit the friendly team at 2/84 Hastings Road, Cabarita, call 0435 116 897 for a free quote or visit the website: www. seasideinteriors.com.au to make an appointment.

DATE: Friday 7th February 2025

TIME: 9:00am

PLACE: Minjungbal Cultural Centre

Cnr of Kirkwood Road & Duffy Streets, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486

AGENDA: 1. Community Land & Business Plan Workshop

Duranbah Drainage Union No�ce of Annual

Loca�on: Condong Bowling Club, 2 McLeod Street, Condong, 2484.

Due to recent legisla�ve changes under the Water Management Act 2000 (NSW), Duranbah Drainage Union invites all landholders within the drainage union’s district to a�end the Annual General Mee�ng.

This Act has introduced new provisions for private drainage boards, which are now classified as private water corpora�ons. These amendments impact governance and administra�on, requiring the adop�on of a new works plan and internal governance rules. All landholders within the Duranbah Drainage Union boundary, as outlined in the boundary map, are invited to a�end.

Key topics for discussion include:

• Adop�on of internal governance rules

• Adop�on of the drainage union’s works plan

• Proposed changes to the boundaries of the drainage union

• Financial report and plans for the year ahead

• Elec�on of directors to the board

This is an important mee�ng for all members, and your par�cipa�on is crucial in shaping the future of our drainage union.

Contact tweeddrainagecouncil@gmail.com for copies of the corpora�on’s rules, works plan, appointment of proxy form, elec�on nomina�on forms.

RSVP by 4 February 2025 to the secretary, Joanne Iva: tweeddrainagecouncil@gmail.com We look forward to seeing you there!

Scan to view boundary map

AUTHORISED: Chairperson, Tweed Byron LALC

DATE: Friday 7th February 2025

TIME: 11:00am

PLACE: Minjungbal Museum & Cultural Centre

Cnr of Kirkwood Road & Duffy Streets, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486

AGENDA: 1. Welcome / Apologies

2. Annual Report 2023/24

3.

DATE:

& Duffy Streets, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486

AGENDA ITEMS INCLUDE: 1. Welcome

AUTHORISED: Chairperson, Tweed Byron LALC

Mooball and Crabbes Creek Swamp Drainage Union No�ce of Annual General Mee�ng

Date: Monday 10 February 2025 Time: 9.00am

Loca�on: Moo Moo Café, 5875 Tweed Valley Way, Mooball 2483.

Due to recent legisla�ve changes under the Water Management Act 2000 (NSW), Mooball and Crabbes Creek Swamp Drainage Union invites all landholders within the drainage union’s district to a�end the Annual General Mee�ng.

This Act has introduced new provisions for private drainage boards, which are now classified as private water corpora�ons. These amendments impact governance and administra�on, requiring the adop�on of a new works plan and internal governance rules.

All landholders within the Mooball and Crabbes Creek Swamp Drainage Union boundary, as outlined in the boundary map, are invited to a�end.

Key topics for discussion include:

• Adop�on of internal governance rules

• Adop�on of the drainage union’s works plan

• Proposed changes to the boundaries of the drainage union

• Financial report and plans for the year ahead

• Elec�on of directors to the board

This is an important mee�ng for all members, and your par�cipa�on is crucial in shaping the future of our drainage union.

Contact tweeddrainagecouncil@gmail.com for copies of the corpora�on’s rules, works plan, appointment of proxy form, elec�on nomina�on forms.

RSVP by 4 February 2025 to the secretary, Joanne Iva: tweeddrainagecouncil@gmail.com

We look forward to seeing you there!

during business hours. All inquiries about this meeting should be directed to the CEO of the Tweed Byron LALC during business hours.

AUTHORISED: Chairperson

Scan to view boundary map

Position Vacant

POSITION VACANT Property Manager

Murwillumbah Real Estate is seeking a motivated Property Manager to join their team.

Responsibilities will include:

• Managing your own port folio of properties

• Liaising with landlords and tenants

• Conducting inspections, incoming, outgoing and periodic inspections

• Marketing rental properties

• Overseeing rental arrears control

• Performing & processing rental applications

• Managing repairs and maintenance

• Preparing lease agreements

You will need:

• Current real estate license

• Solid communication skills

• Desire and capacity to build solid client relationships

• Ability to work effectively unsupervised and as part of a team

• Professional presentation

This position is part time/full-time.

If you fit the criteria above and are ready to join a successful, passionate & friendly team, please contact Robyn Pluis 0407 897 141.

Late of Murwillumbah. Formerly of New Zealand. Passed away peacefully on Thursday 16 th January 2025. Aged 93 Years.

Dearly loved Wife of Peter. Loved Mother and Mother-in-law of Susan Budd, Peter & Nola Budd, Andrew & Amanda Budd and Megan & Chris Warrell.

Much Loved Nana of all of her 11 Grandchildren & 6 Great-Grandchildren.

Loved Sister of Susie Pizzey (dec’d).

A private service has been held for Judith.

In loving memory of

Allan Edward Cram

Late of Darlington Aged Care Banora Point

Formerly of Doon Doon

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday 22nd January 2025

Aged 88 Years

Loved Brother of Lindsay (Dec’d) Son of Charlie and Grace (Both Dec’d)

Loved Cousin and Friend.

Family and Friends are warmly invited to attend Allans’ Funeral Service to be held at Tweed Valley Lawn Chapel on Tuesday 4th February 2025 at 11am (NSW time) Eviron Road, Eviron.

Annette Gail Elliott

Passed away 19th January 2025

Aged 64 years.

Late of Banora Point.

Much loved mother of Sinead and Ryan (deceased)

Family and friends of Annette are invited to attend a celebration of her life, to be held the Melaleuca Station Memorial Gardens Chapel, 9394 Tweed Valley Way, Chinderah on Monday 3rd February 2025 at 11.30am NSW Time (10.30am QLD Time)

To Let

Wilton, Bruce

Late of Gladstone QLD (Formally of Mooball & Mullumbimby) Passed away Peacefully 21st January 2025 Aged 87 Years

Dearly Loved Husband of Margaret (dec)

Loved Father & Father In-law of Warren & Anna, Heather & Gordon, Colleen & Andrew and Daryl & Lois.

Loved Papa of 10, Loved Great-Papa of 12.

Loved Brother of Ross (dec), Allan (dec) and John.

Family and Friends are warmly invited to attend Bruce’s Funeral Service to be held at Tweed Valley Lawn Cemetery Chapel, Eviron Rd, Eviron, Monday 3rd February 2025, 11:30am (NSW time, ADST) Followed by a Graveside Service.

Brian Francis Ahrens

Passed away peacefully 27th January 2025. Aged 92 years. Late of Tweed Heads. Beloved husband of Dawn (deceased).

Much loved father of Kerrie, Lea, Jane, Craig, Megan and their families

Family and friends of Brian are invited to attend his funeral service to be held at St. Josephs Catholic Church, Frances Street, Tweed Heads on ursday 6th February 2025 at 11:00am NSW Time (10:00am QLD Time)

Daniel Allen Fletcher

29/06/1985 - 24/11/2024

The Fletchers and the Kaehlers Family would like to thank everyone for their kindness, caring, flowers and cards on the passing of Daniel.

Loving Son of Allen and Jayne Fletcher Brother/Brother-in-law of Matthew, Linda and Nathan Uncle of Lana and Zeb

A special thanks to Simplicity Funerals, Tweed Heads. Please accept this as our personal thank you to you all.

CRAVEN Roy Kevin 20/01/2025

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

SCHWEIFER BOYD Michael 20/01/2025

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

WALKER Anastasia Lee 21/01/2025

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

LYNCH Barbara Ann 22/01/2025

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

BEAVER Larry William 25/01/2025

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

FISHER Coralie Merle “Kega” 25/01/2025

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

Maureen Rose O’Mara 21/01/2024

Paperbark Death Care 0466 526 156

James Oden Christiansen 27/01/2024

Paperbark Death Care

Funeral Notice

Death Notice

Alison Budd

Taylor

McGuiness Funerals Ph: (02) 6672 2144 Murwillumbah

In loving memory

Murwillumbah Real Estate | 27 Wollumbin Street Murwillumbah

Late of Crabbes Creek and formally Ono Degno Italy.

Passed away peacefully at home 9th August 2021.

Aged 91 years.

We offer holistic and unique funerals that empower you to have a deeply meaningful and inclusive experience

Dearly loved brother, brother in law, uncle, cousin and friend to many.

Direction cremations $2560 including transfers and all legal paper work

Much loved and sadly missed by his family in Australia, Italy and Switzerland. Thankyou for all kind thoughts and wishes.

Full Service Cremations starting at $6360. www.tiarefunerals.com

Lions Club of Cabarita Beach Pottsville Beach Inc hosted it's annual Community Award Winners for Australia Day

Family enjoying a special day

Mayor Cherry with Rhett Murray VRA

Award to Jim Kelly

Having a blast at the Murwillumbah pool

Australia Day cricket between Tumbulgum Village and Tumbulgum North was another cracker. The Village side was the winner!

Award recipient Jordana Edwards

Real Estate

FROM COAST TO COUNTRY

Murwillumbah is running hot

By Jo Kennett

ARE MURWILLUMBAH houses the hottest real estate ticket in the Tweed right now?

It certainly seems like it with so much market action going on, and recent price rises haven’t deterred buyers, who obviously see the value in the once overlooked town.

Last month Murwillumbah had 49 properties for sale. Median property prices over the last year range from $846,250 for houses to $515,000 for units, which is still great value when you stop and look around at

the scenery. It’s one of the prettiest towns in Australia, with that beloved mountain backdrop, the beautiful Tweed River snaking its way through the cane fields and lovely rural views everywhere you look. If you don’t believe me go and check out the Tweed River Gallery or the showground.

It never ceases to amaze just how lovely it all is. Okay enough superlatives. Let’s crunch some numbers.

Units were only on the market for an average of 32 days, with houses on for 45, with plenty of interest.

Open Homes

All times are DST unless specified. Saturday, February 1 JET

• 303 Crabbes Creek Rd, Crabbes Creek, 9.30-10am

• 2469 Kyogle Rd, Terragon, 10.30-11am

• 60A Rous River Way, Murwillumbah, 11-11.30am

• 2 Mebbin Drive, Kunghur, 11.30-12pm

• 103 Commercial rd, Murwillumbah, 12-12.30pm

DJ Stringer Property Services

• 155 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga, 9-9:30am QLD Time

‘Murbah’ has seen an annual compound growth rate of 10.6 per cent for houses but units are down 15.9 per cent, making them great value.

With arguably the most beautiful views in town, 7 Mistral Road, South Murwillumbah, (just near the gallery) overlooks rolling green paddocks, the Tweed River and the mountains. Architecturally designed and built in 1965 with three spacious bedrooms, it’s for sale for the first time in 59 years with expressions of interest at Jet Real Estate. It won’t last.

Northern Rivers Property Group has one of the most interesting homes at 7 Tombonda Road on the market, which they call the ‘origami treehouse’ and, with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and mountain views, it’s a great buy at $898,000.

If you have a big family, NRPG also has a seven bedroom home at 69 Rous River Way with a magnesium pool, slide, spa and games area for sale for $1.25 to $1.35 million.

DJ Stringer has a three bedroom

• 1066/20-22 Stuart St, Tweed Heads, 10– 10.30am

home 143 Tweed Valley Way for sale which made $58,000 gross income last year as short stay accommodation. It’s a flood resilient home with high-set living areas and a covered wrap-around deck overlooking the water, for sale with a guide of just $850,000.

If you are after low maintenance, high-end living in the Tweed Valley, Fairways on North Arm at 42 North Arm Road, five minutes from the CBD and even closer to the golf course, might be the spot for you.

Sellers agent Craig Dudgeon

McGrath

• 5/28 Dutton St, Coolangatta, 10-10:30am QLD Time

• 20 Eliza Fraser Ct, Terranora, 11-11:30am

• 27 Oakland Dr, Banora Point, 12-12:30pm

• 5 Pimpala Ct, Tugun, 12.30-1 QLD Time

• 3/4B Chitticks Lane, Fingal, 1-1:30pm

Tate Brownlee Real Estate

• 21 Point Break Circuit, Kingscliff, 10 – 10.30am

• 38 Terranora Road, Banora Point, 10 – 10.30am

• 10 Seafarer Place, Banora Point, 11 – 11.30am

• 8 Picnic Place, Canungra, 11-11.30am

• 38 The Hermitage, Tweed Heads South, 12 – 12.30pm

• 78 Glen Ayr Drive, Banora Point, 1 – 1.30pm

• 56 Charles Street, Tweed Heads, 2 – 2.30pm

• 1/11 Oregon Court, Banora Point, 2 – 2.30pm

• 3/12 Lord Street, Coolangatta, 3 – 3.30pm

from Elders Tweed Valley said the new estate features small blocks that will be turnkey right up to the landscaping. House and land packages include water tanks and solar panels and are now available with land starting at $449,000.

Despite all the real estate madness of the last few years, there are still some great buys to be had in this much-loved town and it’s probably not going to get any better value so why wouldn’t you jump right in.

• 65 Tamarind Avenue Bogangar, 9.15 -9.45am

• 8 Callistemon Avenue, Casuarina, 10 – 10.30am

• 14/52 Darlington Drive, Banora Point, 10 – 10.30am

• 35 Ossa Boulevard, Terranora, 10 – 10.30am

• 23 Karingal Avenue, Bilambil Heights, 10.15 -10.45am

• 3 Longboard Circuit, Kingscliff, 11– 11.30am

• 2 Karingal Avenue, Bilambil Heights, 11-11.30am

• 43 Cominan Avenue, Banora Point, 12-12.30pm

• 1316/27 Bells Boulevard, Kingscliff,12 – 12.30pm

Northern Rivers Property Group

• 391 Tweed Valley Way, Murwillumbah, 9 – 9.15am

• 14 Condong Street Murwillumbah, 9.45 – 10.30am

• 13-15 Mitchell street Uki, 11 – 11.15am

• 35 Solomons Rd, Mount Warning, 11.45 – 12pm

The origami treehouse at 7 Tombonda Road, Murwillumbah, for sale with Northern Rivers Property Group

The view from 7 Mistral Road, South Murwillumbah

14 Condong MurwillumbahStreet

PRICE: $800-$850,000 2+ BED | 2 BATH | CAR

approx 830m2 Flat useable block

Multiple living options with separate upstairs and downstairs entrys..rental estimates 500550/wk each level

Available as W.I.W.O also New roof, gutters, aircons, solar 300mtrs to centre of town

Parklands across the road

No rear neighbours

Freshly painted throughout

Kyogle rd Mount Burrell

PRICE: $1.8 - $1.98m

6 BED | 3 BATH | 4 CAR

130 acres of diversity with loads of potential business opportunities

Beautifully restored historic queenslander plus 2 studios

Loads of shedding

Several spring fed dams 40 minutes to Murwillumbah / 25 minutes to Nimbin or Uki

Inspirational mountain views

A rare find!

approximately 6 acres just 5 minutes drive to the arts and foodie hub of Murwillumbah

Massive architect designed multilevel home with lots of living options

Sparkling pool

Studio / Spring Fed dam

Mount warning views

Elevated and flood free Luxury acreage

Handy

PRICE: $1.25 - 1.35mil

7 BED | 3 BATH | 2 CAR

Immaculate family or extended family residence with dual living options

Sparkling In-Ground Pool Side street access + views Games / pool room / bar entertaining area

Ducted aircon / Massive solar array / superfast fibre to node internet 3km to Murwillumbah CBD 69 Rous River MurwillumbahWay

155 Golden Four Drive Bilinga

COASTAL INSPIRED BEACH HOUSEwith dual living

Experience the pleasures of living by the sea from this fully modernised & transformed (4) bedroom residence that offers a myriad of lifestyle choices and dual living options to cater for the independent family and or home business operation.

David Stringer 0418 150 731

16/15-17 South Street Coolangatta

BEACHSIDE LIVING - adjacent to Kirra Beach

Elevated ground level (2) bedroom unit including large terrace & double garage, within short stroll to the beach & Kirra’s cosmopolitan dining precinct.

Interest Over $895K Open By appointment

David Stringer 0418 150 731 david@djstringer.com.au

5/16 Coyne Street

VINTAGE BEACHSIDE LIVING150m to the beach!

Immerse yourself into an idyllic beachy lifestyle from this sizable (2) bedroom unit, just one of (8) only and anchored on a prime 1012m2 allotment which is cherry ripe for future high rise re-development.

5/28 Dutton Street Coolangatta

COASTAL LIVING - on Goodwin Park

Experience total convenience and an abundance of lifestyle options from this immaculate, first level, coastal inspired (2) bedroom residence, just one of (8) only and within a moment's notice to the beach & CBD.

Buyer Guide $995K Open Saturday 10:00-10:30am (QLD) David Stringer 0418 150 731 david@djstringer.com.au

20 Eliza Fraser Court Terranora

IMPRESSIVE FAMILY HOME – with dual living'

A fabulous entertainer that is easy to maintain and boasts generous open plan living, enhanced with hinterland scenery and a lower-level that flows seamlessly out onto a large deck to entertain family & friends.

Interest Over $795K Open By Appointment

David Stringer 0418 150 731

david@djstringer.com.au

Sale Contact Agent Open Saturday 11:00-11:30am (NSW) Deborah Bingle 0403 727 548 deborah@djstringer.com.au

1066/20-22 Stuart Street Tweed Heads

BOUTIQUE APARTMENT - Twin Towns precinct'

Arrive home to enjoy this spacious (1) bedroom furnished apartment located on the (6th) level offering an abundance of lifestyle options, right on the cusp of Coolangatta & Tweed Central.

Buyer Range $650K - $670K Open Saturday 10:00-10:30am (NSW) Deborah Bingle 0403 727 548 deborah@djstringer.com.au 1 1 1

5 Pimpala Court Tugun

EXPANSIVE FAMILY ENTERTAINERrelax and enjoy'

Elevated at the far end of a quiet cul-de-sac, you will enjoy the privacy and tranquility from this dual level (5) bedroom residence nestled amongst native surrounds & perched on 1211m2 allotment.

For Sale Offers over $1.7M

Open Saturday 12:30-1:00pm (QLD)

Deborah Bingle 0403 727 548 deborah@djstringer.com.au 5 3 3

41/1-33 Harrier Street Tweed Heads South

COASTAL TOWN HOME – Oasis views'

Experience low maintenance convenient living from this modernised (3) bedroom town home, within a well-cared for gated community establishment.

• To assist prospective purchasers during this time a Pest & Building Report is available upon request.

Buyer Range $765K - $795K Open By appointment

David Stringer 0418 150 731

david@djstringer.com.au 3 2 2

1/305 Golden Four Drive

Bilinga

ABSOLUTE OCEANFRONT LIVINGwhen you deserve the very best'

Discover the charm of this superb, elevated twobedroom ground-level oceanfront apartment within Casa Del Rey'.

2 2 1

Reduced Interest Over $1.695M

Open By appointment

David Stringer 0418 150 731

david@djstringer.com.au

27 Oakland Parade Banora Point

FABULOUS FAMILY ENTERTAINERshare the good times'

Experience the pleasures of family unity from this spacious (4) bedroom low set private residence, filled with options and framed within a 1036m2 elevated allotment.

Buyer Range $1.3M-$1.395M

Open Saturday 12:00-12:30pm (NSW)

David Stringer 0418 150 731 david@djstringer.com.au 4 2 3

3/4B Chitticks Lane Fingal Head

CAPTURE THE SPIRIT OF DREAMTIME BEACH

Nestled within an exclusive seaside enclave, you will enjoy solace from this (3) bedroom coastal inspired town home (just one of 3 only) within 250m to access Fingal Head Beach & the beautiful Dreamtime Beach.

2 2

For Sale By Negotiation

Open

Saturday 1:00-1:30pm (NSW)

David Stringer 0418 150 731

david@djstringer.com.au

35 Navigators Way Tweed Heads

WATERFRONT LIVINGAnchorage Islands precinct'

Immerse yourself into an idyllic lifestyle from this beautiful (3) bedroom low set residence that commands hypnotising views of the inlet and the gentle sway of a small flotilla of boats within the harbour.

3 2 2

Buyer Guide

$2.4M - $2.5M

Open By appointment

David Stringer 0418 150 731

david@djstringer.com.au

An

convenience. Ideally positioned just moments from Mooball Creek and the renowned Black Rocks Beach, this property offers an unparalleled opportunity to embrace the very best of this enviable beachside enclave.

Every once in a while, a truly special property comes along-one with unique features and an exceptional elevated position that captures the refreshing sea breezes. This spacious, house-sized duplex boasts an ideal eastnortheast aspect and a generously sized yard, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere from the moment you step through the front door. This spacious family home combines breathtaking ocean and river views with endless potential, making it a standout opportunity in the heart of Banora Point. Perfectly positioned on a generous 853m² block with an easterly aspect, this brick residence offers versatile spaces, thoughtful features, and a lifestyle of comfort and coastal convenience.