Tweed Valley Weekly, December 12 and December 19 Double Edition

Push to reopen Wollumbin

By Jonathon Howard

A FRESH push to reopen the Wollumbin/ Mount Warning summit track is underway by Councillor Kimberly Hone, as the Tweed marks five years next March since the iconic trail closed.

Cr Hone will this week raise a motion during Tweed Shire Council’s final monthly meeting for the year calling for an new approach that includes employing Indigenous rangers and establishing a cultural centre.

The iconic summit was closed by National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) during the Covid-19 pandemic and has remained closed due to safety concerns and it being a sacred place of the highest significance to local Indigenous people.

There has, however, been a large economic impact, which Cr Hone emphasised had resulted in the closure of several small businesses. She’s now determined to see the area reopened and thriving once more.

The Weekly has sought comment from NPWS on multiple occasions over the past four years, with other media reporting regular articles setting deadlines, all whilst a final decision is yet to be determined.

“I remain committed to my election pledge to progress the reopening of the Wollumbin/Mount Warning summit track,” Cr Hone said.

“The closure has caused substantial losses in tourism, with many local businesses already forced to shut their doors.

“We need to start asking the tough questions, like why are we being denied access to information about the Wollumbin Consultative Group, and why is vital information being kept from the community?”

Cr Hone referenced a recent study that suggested the closure of the summit has led to a $12-million loss in the Tweed’s economy, further underscoring the urgency of the situation.

“Despite a petition of more than 10,000 signatures calling for the trail’s reopening to the state government, the NPWS,

tasked with the decision around whether to reopen the summit, has yet to provide a definitive response,” Cr Hone said

“We received only an acknowledgment of the petition and a statement that the process is still ongoing.”

The motion calls for further investigation into the formation of a local working group to determine how the Wollumbin/ Mount Warning track can be reopened, and a report will be presented to council following the investigation.

However, the matter is not without complexity. The Wollumbin site, an Aboriginal sacred area, is managed by the NPWS, with decisions falling outside the council’s jurisdiction, according to council’s response to the motion.

The Wollumbin Consultative Group, composed of local Indigenous leaders and representatives, has been providing guidance to NPWS on the management of the national park since 2000. Its long-standing view is that public access to the summit is not in line with the cultural values of the area.

Cr Hone said she does not want further division and instead has proposed the creation of a local group to progress the matter.

Her proposed solution is to establish a local working group, led by the com -

munity, to explore options for reopening the track.

“This would include the employment of Indigenous rangers to manage and maintain the trail, at no cost to the local council,” she said.

“Additionally, the creation of a cultural centre would provide educational opportunities and create jobs, with all economic benefits staying within local Indigenous communities.

“The closure has divided the community, even creating tension among Indigenous groups and all while we’re missing out on opportunities for schools and tourists to learn about the rich cultural and environmental significance of the area

“By reopening the track, we can begin to address these issues.”

Cr Hone emphasised that the NPWS could charge a small fee to hikers, with funds used to employ Indigenous rangers.

“This initiative would ensure that the site is maintained and managed in a way that benefits the local community, while respecting the cultural heritage of the area,” she said, highlighting its importance as a significant cultural site.

Search for missing hiker

EMERGENCY SERVICE workers have spent days scouring Wollumbin for signs of lost hiker Csaba Varga, who went missing on Saturday night, December 7. By the time the search entered its third day, rain and humidity had made the job of rescue crews even more difficult, with the track to the summit of the mountain overgrown and dangerous.

Mr Varga, aged 54, is believed to have been hiking at Wollumbin when he was last heard from at about 9.30pm on Saturday when he called a friend, indicating he was lost in the Wollumbin National Park.

When he was unable to be contacted on Sunday, December 8, police commenced a search of the Wollumbin area where they located the man’s car in the car park at around noon.

The search was suspended on Sunday night, before resuming on Monday with Tweed-Byron Police, assisted by NSW Ambulance, Westpac Rescue Helicopter, NSW SES, RFS and VRA Rescue NSW. VRA Rescue crews from Region North and from the Special Operations Rescue Unit (SORU), including a drone, were assisting NSW Police Force, NSW Ambu-

lance, NSW Rural Fire Service and NSW SES with the search for the missing man, pictured right, who was last seen wearing a white T-shirt, navy shorts, a backpack and a cap.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Our Electorate Office is closed for the Christmas break from Monday 23 December 2024 and will reopen on Monday 6 January 2025.

Cr Kimberly Hone at the now closed Wollumbin/Mount Warning summit track entrance

Missing hiker Csaba Varga

If only they had acted on housing

Ahhh K Milne (TVW, November 28, page 5). Who can forget the period when this most litigious and anti-development Greens Party mayor sat at the head of the table of Tweed Shire councillors.

When koala habitats were considered more important than human habitats.

Had her Greens Party acted with a modicum of foresight, professionalism and compassion, we would have had sensible development in place to address and accommodate the long list of shire residents waiting in the public housing queue — and continue to wait.

Please don’t throw up the old chestnut ‘it’s a state government issue’ as this is simply buck-passing. Your mob could have achieved more.

Gary Sutton, Tweed Heads Tweed can grow if it’s done right

More people in rural settings means more hands to keep nature under control.

Vege gardens, chooks and ducks are not easy given the proliferation of snakes, foxes, bandicoots, goannas, white ants and bush rats.

Sustainable living requires extra human labour. No man can manage 40 acres by himself. We have a self-contained MO at Crystal Creek with 1.4 km of mountainous gravel roads servicing six lots.

We have three housing entitlements with four families (one granny flat).

Filling potholes, clearing drains, caring for 100 chickens, maintaining a 30kW solar system, 20 raised garden beds, six bee hives, composting and timber buildings with leaf littered roofs. The point is, maintaining properties properly requires work. Anyone can wander around spraying 2,4-D on weeds but being environmentally conscious means pulling devil’s fig by hand.

Given our situation we could have

another 10 families all living comfortably without any bush being affected.

So many beautiful housing locations available that could be turned into sustainable living spaces.

What needs to be avoided is investment in holiday homes being built.

More homes for young environmentally-aware people who want to grow their own veges, and less rural developers building cookie cutter brick boxes that people just retire on.

Let’s keep the Tweed “cool” and avoid the pitfalls of gentrification.

Wood Haven, Crystal Creek

No to Gold Coast-style

Tweed

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on former Mayor Milne’s statement regarding Tweed Shire Council’s Draft Options Paper Growth Management and Housing Strategy (TVW, November 28, page 5). I agree 100 percent with her statement and if the people who developed this strategy were over ten years preparing it, I suggest residents gave up long ago in participating.

If every resident objected to this plan for the Tweed, the people who issued it still would be successful because no amount of disagreement will be conceded.

Congratulations to Katie Milne for expressing the community view that the Tweed is a special place to live and residents don’t want the same intrusive developments evident on the Gold Coast.

Carol Langan, Tweed Heads

Cost of living increases

The cost of living is a significant concern for Australians at present. We are all very aware of price increases, we only have to walk into the supermarket to see regular price increases.

Australia is not alone in facing cost of living increases, the US has seen huge increases over the last few years.

Statistics indicate that the cost of living in the US is now almost eight percent higher than in Australia. The

US has mostly been cheaper to dine out than Australia, current indications are that dining at a mid-range restaurant in the US can be about a third more than Australia when taxes and tips are factored in.

A few years ago, suggested tips in the US ranged from ten to fifteen percent, today it ranges from eighteen to twenty five percent.

To buy a five-dollar Australian coffee in the US today will cost you eight Australian dollars. I recently heard from people returning from Canada that Canada has also become expensive.

Cost of living increases are being grappled with in many countries. It is indeed a big problem to tackle.

G Matthews, Kielvale Trump will succeed

I write in response to Andrew Rutherford’s letters in The Weekly on November 28, letter of the week, and comments thereunder.

It may have escaped Mr Rutherford’s notice that Donald Trump defeated 16 other Republican candidates to become the Republican candidate for the 2016 presidential election and duly won over Hilary Clinton who said that “half of Trump supporters could be put in basket of deplorables”.

James Comey, then head of the FBI before the 2016 election, stated that although Hilary Clinton destroyed over thirty thousand emails, some of which were about government business, no judge would indict her.

Compare that to how the Democrats treated President Trump — the Russian collusion hoax, the two impeachments by the house but not the senate.

The January 6 inquiry where there was no cross examination of witnesses and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi has admitted she should have accepted then-President Trump’s offer of federal troops to protect government buildings on that day.

The fact that President Trump was building the wall to stop illegal im-

migration and what happened when President Biden stopped that and allowed millions of illegal immigrants into the USA.

Putin annexed Crimea from the Ukraine whilst President Obama was in charge and invaded Ukraine under Biden’s watch.

How many of President Trump’s supporters were sent to jail by the Biden administration.

President Trump had the USA in the best financial position for some time and almost energy independent until COVID hit the world.

He had also warned the head of the Taliban not to attack US forces but this all went bad when Biden withdrew the US forces from Afghanistan leaving behind millions’ worth of equipment and the loss of military lives.

Now President Trump has picked a good team to support him and having learned from his first term only good things will come from his second term. Need I go on.

Cecil White, Kingscliff Censored letter

If T Sharples (TVW, Dec 5, letters) only knew how highly censored my letter was by the editor.

I am both alarmed and amused by the replies to my recent contribution to the letters section. I now understand the narrow-minded demographic this publication is targeting.

It proves that information provided by MSM is manipulated, false and discourages people that have researched the facts and have an opposing point of view.

Clearly if my letter was published in its entirety the voice of a minority may be heard and understood by all members of a community. Sadly this is not the case.

If you understand sociology, studies have proven that an uninformed majority will always lose a battle of information against an informed minority. That shows that when you have hidden information, you can

completely manipulate a large group of people.

I’d love to hear T Sharples thoughts on the pardoning of Hunter Biden by his father Joe all the way back to 2014? This exonerates both of them from their shady deals in the Ukraine. Sort of like what the Democratic Party have done in the USA in 21 or the past 24 years.

Knowledge is power which a population clearly should not have access to in your views.

Adrian Sisaric, Smiths Creek

Thank you volunteers I would like to praise our volunteer firefighters for their dedication to their communities no matter the time of year or the emergency response required, be it bushfire, motor vehicle accident or structure fire.

Christmas is a joyous time of year when we can stop and enjoy the company of our friends and loved ones. But for volunteer firefighters there is always the chance that they’ll be called to an emergency, and I know if that time comes they won’t hesitate. Volunteer firefighters go a step further by putting their lives on the line to save others and protect their communities, and we are incredibly grateful for their courage and commitment.

We have already seen bushfires this season and although we hope we don’t see more, the reality is we will. I want to take this opportunity to thank volunteer firefighters who always stand ready to protect lives and livelihoods.

The Rural Fire Service Association president Scott Campbell

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

State of Tweed roads

By Jonathon Howard

A WET year has stalled vital road repairs, but Tweed Shire council has sought to reassure residents that major roadworks, such as the Tyalgum landslip, remain a priority.

Council updated The Weekly on many of its major roadworks this week, after the Tweed has experienced a considerably higher rainfall in 2024.

The Tyalgum Road landslip, which occurred in the 2022 flood and has been one of the biggest road repair jobs in the Tweed’s history, has an expected completion mid next year — weather permitting.

“Work continues on the extreme slip site on Tyalgum Road and work is commencing on a number of bridges and causeways in the Tweed hinterland road network and will continue into mid-2025 weather dependent,” Council’s Manager of Roads and Stormwater Engineering, Danny Rose told The Weekly.

Heavy rain this year has dampened repair efforts with constant delays, disruptions and fresh repairs almost monthly.

Whilst the Tweed normally receives an average of 1,600mm a year, in the past 12 months, totals for some areas (Tweed Heads) are in excess of 2,500mm and many areas have also received double their average rainfall totals.

“Not only has the shire experienced more rain but it has also been over extended periods of time, limiting the number of fine days where road repairs can be carried out successfully,” a spokesperson for council told The Weekly.

In fact, council said its road crews have had more than 600 flood and storm-related callouts due to the wet weather.

“Permanent, large scale road repairs

cannot be done in the rain,” Mr Rose said.

“Dry conditions are needed to properly compact our pavement gravels and for bitumen surfaces to properly harden.

“Council also needs to make sure workers and road users are safe when conducting roadworks.”

During wet weather, council said it prioritises community safety first.

“Council addresses life-threatening risks first and targets urgent maintenance on the busiest roads and areas where people are isolated,” the spokesperson said.

“Council’s road budgets do not allow for maintenance to each road every year, so we need to target maintenance works based on priority and relative need.

“To inform this process, every four years each road segment is rated for its condition and its age.”

Council wanted to note that its road maintenance program is different to its

flood restoration program.

“Since the devastating floods of 2022, council, with the funding support of federal and state governments, has managed to repair, restore and reopen major connections around the Tweed,” Mr Rose said.

In some good news, in 2024 alone, council completed restoration works on:

• Reserve Creek Road ($7.7 million)

• Numinbah Road ($1.75 million)

• Eviron Road and Clothiers Creek Road stabilisation ($1 million)

• Palmvale Road ($865,000)

• Stokers Road ($1.5 million)

• Urliup Road ($7 million)

• Cudgera Creek Road ($2.4 million)

• Tweed Valley Way ($1.7 million)

• Kyogle Road and Mount Warning Road ($38 million)

For more information about roads go to tweed.nsw.gov.au/roadworks-closures

“MEN ARE SO HARD TO

Tyalgum Road was one of the most impacted roads in the 2022 flood

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.

E-bike accident in Tweed Heads

By Jo Kennett

A MAN has been hospitalised with head injuries after an e-bike accident in Tweed Heads on Saturday, December 7, the latest in a growing number of e-bike and scooter accidents.

The accident happened at around 8am on Kennedy Drive, with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter tasked by NSW Ambulance to the scene.

A man in his 50s was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics and the helicopter’s critical care medical team for head injuries before being transported to Gold Coast University Hospital. His condition is unknown.

The accident follows growing concern in the Tweed Shire about the threat e-bikes and e-scooters (currently illegal to use on public roads and footpaths) pose to riders, pedestrians and drivers.

Three e-bike riders have died this year in Australia, the latest a 66-year-old Canberra man who died after his e-bike crashed into a wall on a bike path in November.

In October, a nine-year-old boy who was being doubled by his father on the Gold Coast died when they were hit by an out-of-control car. His father was left in a critical condition.

A 30-year-old man died in a Gold Coast hospital after crashing an e-bike and suffering “catastrophic brain injuries” at Byron Bay.

An American tourist suffered serious head injuries after being hit by an e-bike earlier this year in Sydney.

Locals reported that last week Tweed-Byron Police were fining e-bike riders in Byron Bay who were riding illegal bikes (not pedal assist and speed limited) and riding without a helmet.

There have also been a number of serious accidents with e-scooters, with e-scooters soon to be legalised in NSW.

In Queensland last year there were 1,273 e-scooter accident presentations to emergency departments, mainly for head and face injuries, with 2024 set to surpass those figures.

Residents worried

A CASUARINA man contacted The Weekly to raise concerns about e-bikes and to present some possible solutions.

Graham Dietrich said he was driving along Tweed Coast Road when he noticed a teenager on an e-bike moving quickly on the cycleway between Casuarina and Cabarita.

“I slowed down to 55 kilometres per hour (km/h) and stayed along the rider,” he said.

“Soon after that I heard a nurse from a Gold Coast hospital asking parents not to buy their kids an electric bike for Christmas because of the large increase in people they are seeing with broken bones and head injuries from e-bike crashes.

“The problem is twofold: firstly, when the riders crash, sometimes with an extra passenger who also gets injured, but also the people they run into often get badly injured.

“The bikes are much faster and heavier than regular bikes and the riders do not have the maturity or training for the vehicle.”

Graham says e-bikes are significantly heavier than non-electric bikes which hinders manoeuvrability.

“Non-electric bikes typically weigh 7 to 16 kilograms, whereas e-bikes generally range from 18 to 36kg,” he said.

“They do not stop or manoeuvre as quickly and do more damage when they hit something.

Graham highlighted that e-bikes are only supposed to have a top speed of 25km/h in Australia, but it appears most e-bikes can exceed this and the biggest e-bikes currently have a top speed of 110 km/h.

“On a Friday night at 9pm in Coolangatta I counted 20 e-bikes on the move on the roads and sidewalks and only half had any lights and only half the riders wore

helmets,” he said.

Graham said e-bike riders regularly exceed 25km/h on the Kingscliff/Casuarina cycleway, causing safety fears for pedestrians, but he has some solutions he thinks can help.

“Number one is to ban anyone under 12 from riding them on roads or cycleways — or limit them to 10km/h,” Graham said.

“Licence riders who are 12 and over but don’t yet have a driver’s licence should sit an online course to teach them the rules and how to stay safe.

“They would need to carry the licence on them when riding so it can be checked and it would also help identify them if they crash.

Police crackdown calls

“Police should start enforcing the maximum legal speed of e-bikes and wearing helmets,”Graham said.

“The fines raised would pay for the officers enforcing them.”

A Bogangar resident posted on social media about her concerns for young people on e-bikes riding as fast as motorbikes with no helmets and often on the road, and received an overwhelming response agreeing there needed to be changes to lessen the dangers.

There have also been regular reports of e-bike riders swerving around traffic and speeding along the road between Hastings Point and Pottsville.

Residents have reported e-bike riders travelling at dangerous speeds down the centre of the road between Pottsville and Hastings Point. INSET: a selection of e-bikes

Justine Elliot and Anthony Albanese

CHILDCARE CHEAPER

A 15% pay rise for early learning educators

$641,000 to help three local childcare services stay open

Support for early childhood teaching students to go on prac

Justine and the Goodstart Early Learning Tweed Heads workers giving a thumbs up for the 15% pay rise for child care workers. AND LABOR IS ALSO DELIVERING:

Authorised J. Elliot, ALP, Tweed Heads South

Merry Christmas!

the heat this summer

Senator PERIN DAVEY

Bus driver assault

By Jo Kennett

THE EMPLOYER of a Tweed bus driver who was allegedly punched and spat on when he tried to stop a group smoking or vaping, has described the incident as “totally unacceptable.”

The comments came after Tweed-Byron Police launched an investigation into an assault and anti-social behaviour on the public bus route from Murwillumbah to Banora Point on Thursday, November 21 between 8pm and 8.30pm.

Kinetic Executive General Manager –South East Queensland & Tweed and North Queensland, Martin Hall, said the company cannot comment on particular reports where police are involved.

“We do stress that everyone has the right to feel safe and comfortable catching public transport,” Mr Hall said.

“We take the safety of our passengers and drivers very seriously and have also installed safety screens on all of our NSW urban fleet to provide better protection for drivers at work.

“Any instance of criminal behaviour is totally unacceptable and referred to and dealt with by police.

“We have a strong relationship with police across our Gold Coast and Tweed Coast network.”

“Our drivers are incredibly proud of what they do keeping our communities connected and moving.

“We have provided full support to the driver involved.”

Last year Kinetic bus drivers in the Tweed Shire went on strike calling for better pay and safety conditions on board to counter serious driver assaults. At the time they were earning just $28 an hour but have since been given a pay rise.

Their safety demands included full protective barriers rather than partial barriers “that prevent things getting thrown on them and drivers

being spat on and punched.”

Police believe the people depicted in the photographs can assist police with their investigation and are appealing for witnesses.

Anyone with information is urged to call Tweed Heads Police Station on (07) 5506 9499 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: nsw. crimestoppers.com.au. Police reference number E82809221. Information you provide will be treated in the strictest of confidence

Authorised by Senator Davey, National Party of Australia, 220 Cressy Street, Deniliquin NSW 2710.

Police are looking for these men in relation to the assault on a bus driver

Wanted man causes chaos

By Jo Kennett

TERRIFIED DRIVERS had to swerve and pull over to avoid hitting a man, travelling the wrong way up the M1 on an allegedly stolen motorbike, after he caused several car crashes as he was chased by police and Polair on Friday, December 6 at Tweed Heads.

The man was finally arrested and appeared in court after being charged over an alleged domestic violence incident and a number of police pursuits on the north coast.

On Sunday, November 17, Lismore Police, investigating an alleged domestic violence incident, issued an arrest warrant for a 22-yearold man.

Police will allege the man led them on three police pursuits in an attempt to avoid arrest on Monday, November 18, Monday, December 2 and Wednesday, December 4.

Then at about 5:45pm on Friday, December 6, the 22-year-old was located traveling south on the M1 Motorway, Tweed Heads, in a four-wheel drive.

When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, a pursuit was initiated, before being terminated due to safety concerns.

A short time later, the four-wheel drive exited

the motorway at Minjungbal Drive, Banora Point, and allegedly collided with a sedan which was stopped at traffic lights, pushing the stationary vehicle into a marked police car travelling in the opposite direction.

The 22-year-old man allegedly abandoned the four-wheel drive and forcibly removed a male rider from a moped, before driving off.

The Weekly spoke to a local resident who was one of the first on the scene after the sedan was hit, providing assistance to the female driver of the sedan who was lucky to escape serious injury. He saw the man take the moped and speed off up the M1 towards oncoming traffic.

The man allegedly drove at police vehicles on the M1, before falling off the bike and attempting to run from the scene.

He was arrested by officers and taken to Tweed Heads Police Station and charged with 13 offences including reckless grievous bodily harm (domestic violence), hindering or resisting police officer in the execution of duty, driving while disqualified, assault with intent to steal a vehicle, reckless, dangerous driving and damaging property.

He was refused bail and appeared before Parramatta Local Court on Saturday, December 7.

185mm (h) x 260mm (w)

ALTO

L-plater cop chase

By Jo Kennett

A MAN on his L plates has been charged over an alleged pursuit after he failed to stop as he drove through the Tweed Shire on Tuesday, December 3 and later refused any breath analysis. At about 2.10pm, Tweed-Byron Police officers were alerted by Queensland Police that an SUV, which was allegedly driving dangerously, had entered NSW near Tweed Heads and was being driven south along the M1. NSW Police intercepted the SUV a short time later on the M1 at Cudgera Creek near Pottsville and attempted to stop the vehicle. When the driver allegedly failed to stop as

directed, a pursuit was initiated, continuing south where road spikes were deployed.

The tyres deflated and the vehicle came to a stop on the M1 at Wardell where a 31-year-old Queensland man was arrested.

He was taken to Lismore Police Station where he was charged with not stopping for police, driving dangerously, being an unaccompanied learner driver, exceeding the speed limit by more than 45km/h, driving a vehicle under the influence of drugs, refusing to submit to a breath test, and refusing to submit to breath analysis.

He was refused bail and appeared before Lismore Local Court on Wednesday, December 4.

Racing trailer stolen

A REWARD is being offered for information that leads to the recovery of a trailer stolen from a factory in Tweed Heads on Friday, December 6.

The trailer, pictured, has NSW registration plates TTY95CQ and was taken from the owner’s Ourimbah Road factory.

It was secured with three locks, which were somehow removed.

The P&K Race Prep belonged to a business owner who supplies parts for Toyota 86s and Subaru BRZs.

The trailer is needed by the owner to run

his business and he is asking anyone with any information or CCTV or dash cam footage from Thursday night and early Friday morning in that vicinity to come forward.

The theft has been reported to police. A reward is offered for its return or information that leads to its return.

Stolen car found

IN BETTER news, a 2017 Toyota 86 GTS stolen at around 4am last Monday, December 2, from Terranora has been found dumped in bush at Bilambil, but the joy riders who stole it have done some damage.

The owner told The Weekly that the “car was just flogged.”

“Would’ve done burnouts and had as much fun as they could,” the owner, who didn’t want to be named, said.

“There were a few dings and what not, and the interior was dirty so I’d probably have to get it professionally cleaned.”

This car trailer was stolen from Ourimbah Road, Tweed Heads, last Friday

Death at Kingscliff

By Jo Kennett

A crime scene was established at the Seaview Street, Kingscliff, property

Mandy’s DV pledge

By Jonathon Howard

GREENS CANDIDATE for Richmond Mandy Nolan has announced that if elected, she will effectively reinstate the once popular Tweed Valley Women’s Service which was shut down amid an uproar of protest more than eight years ago.

Ms Nolan said the number of women and children being impacted by domestic violence is “through the roof”, with one murder every five days nationwide.

In fact, according to statistics from ‘Counting Dead Women’, 66 women have been killed due to domestic violence in Australia so far this year.

“Our whole community finds this utterly unacceptable,” Ms Nolan said.

A survivor of domestic violence herself, Ms Nolan is a long-term campaigner for more frontline services for families across the Northern Rivers.

She’s also a former ambassador for Women’s and Children’s Services and has helped raise tens-of-thousands of dollars for much-needed services.

“I’m extremely pleased to announce that if elected, I will work to fund a new Women’s and Children’s Resource Centre in Murwillumbah, with an annual commitment for funding of $725,000,” she told The Weekly.

“Together with stakeholders we’ll explore possibilities for a new centre, in an area where more safe spaces for families are desperately needed.”

Local frontline services in Murwillumbah and the Tweed have welcomed the announcement of almost three-quarters of a million dollars annually, which is part of a fully costed national Greens package committing over $1 billion a year to properly fund a national plan to end violence against women and children.

Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre manager Angela Maxwell and a former worker at the Tweed Valley Women’s Service welcomed

Ms Nolan’s announcement.

“We don’t have enough adequately funded services in our region and the very few services here are not meeting needs,” Ms Maxwell said.

“We need a new local service within this community, and this announcement is wonderful news.”

Ms Maxwell added that the Tweed Valley Women’s Service combined a popular resource centre and a refuge in Tweed Heads.

Following the closure, the refuge was taken over by another organisation, but the Murwillumbah Resource Centre was never reopened, despite years of campaigning.

“We need a centre like this that is there for women every day, for women who are taking first steps towards safety, or in crisis, some suicidal — I took those calls. A service like this is critical to preventing more deaths,” she said.

Murwillumbah Community Centre Indigenous Programs Coordinator Lara Lei welcomed the commitment.

“There is no domestic violence drop-in centre like this anywhere in the area,” Ms Lei, who also worked at the Tweed Valley Women’s Service, said.

“A women’s only safe space with specialist support is essential.”

Sign

Mandy Nolan and Angela Maxwell

Tweed Link

Dinosaurs come to life at Tweed Regional Museum

Looking for some ROARsome holiday fun?

Tweed Regional Museum have opened their latest exhibition, How to Draw a Dinosaur - an innovative fusion of science and art that brings the captivating world of dinosaurs to life. The exhibition celebrates the creativity and collaboration that help us imagine and understand the dinosaurs that roamed the Earth millions of years ago. Pitched as ‘not just another dinosaur display’, the exhibition is an invitation to explore the fascinating interplay between scientific discovery and artistic expression.

Through interactive exhibits, visitors of all ages are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild, envisioning and creating their own interpretations of these majestic creatures.

The exhibition features extraordinary works from

internationally–acclaimed artists, including projection artist Craig Walsh, graphic street artist Phoebe Paradise and inflatable sculptor Matthew Aberline. Visitors will also be treated to stunning illustrations by world-renowned paleoartists such as Dr Lida Xing and Andy Frazer, plus works from local sculptor Christine Mellor and painter Michael Stiegler.

Adding to the experience, real fossils loaned from Australia’s national institutions provide an authentic glimpse into the history of how dinosaurs have been reimagined over time through science and pop culture.

Exhibition details: How to Draw a Dinosaur, Tweed Regional Museum, 2 Queensland Road, Murwillumbah Open until 24 May 2025. Free entry.

For more information, visit Tweed Regional Museum: museum.tweed.nsw.gov.au/exhibitions

Time is ticking – be part of Tweed’s Festive Shopfronts

Tweed retail businesses have until Sunday 15 December to enter the Tweed Festive Shopfront competition, designed to support local businesses and create a festive atmosphere across the Tweed.

The campaign is part of Council's Succeed in Tweed business support program. Supporting the initiative are local business chambers, Tweed Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Business Kingscliff and Business Murwillumbah and Tweed Valley Weekly who will be visiting local stores to encourage businesses to participate.

Businesses are encouraged to decorate their shops or shopfronts with a Christmas/festive theme and register via the Tweed Festive Shopfronts interactive map.

The interactive map shows the locations of great festive displays from businesses across the Tweed, with the aim of encouraging residents to get out and explore the region's shopping precincts and to shop local this Christmas.

Businesses with the most impressive displays will have the chance to win one of 3 prize packs consisting of a $500 Gift Pay e-voucher, complimentary one–year membership to their local business chamber and a quarter page advertising package in the Tweed Valley Weekly.

Winning displays will be selected by representatives from Tweed Shire Council, the local business chambers and Tweed Valley weekly. One winner will be selected for each of the three precinct areas. Businesses interested in participating in the campaign to share the festive spirit can register their

entry online.

For full terms and conditions available and all the info visit or search for: Tweed Festive Shopfronts interactive map Registrations close midnight Sunday 15 December.

In brief ...

Last week, we each used

179 L a day

Look after what makes the

Council holiday season shutdown

Council's offices at Tweed Heads and Murwillumbah will be closed from Monday 23 December to Friday 3 January and re-open at 9 am on Monday 6 January.

For anything urgent over this time please phone 02 6670 2400. Or report a non–urgentproblem online at tweed.nsw.gov.au/report-problem.

Scheduled outage: Council’s online payment portal

Council’s ePayments and Property Services will be unavailable from 4 pm Wednesday 18 December 2024 until 9 am Monday 6 January 2025.

The online portal is used for paying rates, water notices, sundry debtor notices, and application invoices. Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/ways-to-pay for alternative payment methods during this time.

All-Abilities Art to shine at

M|Arts Precinct

An inclusive all-abilities art exhibition, Art Without Limits opens on Thursday 12 December at M|Arts Precinct in Murwillumbah.

The exhibition features works by artists with lived experiences of disability, neurodivergence, and d/Deaf and has been part of the Together We Celebrate: Tweed All Abilities Events series.

The events series is in celebration of International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD).

The exhibition includes award-winning artist Sandra Guy, who advocates for visual art as a career path for neurodiverse individuals. Digital artist Riley Treloar’s series It Takes a Village is also featured, highlighting his unique creative process.

Presented by Social Futures, in partnership with the Tweed IDPwD Working Group, the exhibition is supported by Tweed Shire Council.

The exhibition runs until 18 December.

For more information, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/idpwd

Join Tweed’s Community Climate Action Group

Council is looking for passionate individuals to join its Community Climate Action Group to lead, motivate and support local climate change solutions.

It is recognised that 10-15% of the Tweed’s overall greenhouse gas emissions can be influenced by community and individual actions. While Council works towards its climate goals, the community also has the opportunity to play a part in a sustainable, liveable future that protects the Tweed’s unique natural environment.

Why you should join?

• help develop a Community Climate Action Plan

• lead the delivery of community emissions reduction projects

• contribute to Council’s climate change work program

• meet like-minded individuals

Submit your interest by close of business Friday 10 January, 2025 at yoursaytweed.com.au/ community-climate-action-group

For more information, contact Council’s sustainability education officer Jane Moad at tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au or phone 02 6670 2400.

See the fascinating world of dinosaurs come to life by visiting How to Draw a Dinosaur at Tweed Regional Museum. Image by Sam Townsend.

Tweed the Tweed. Our water.

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.

Digital artwork by Riley Treloar, as a part of the ‘It Takes a Village’ series.

You can find festive shops via the Tweed Festive Shopfronts interactive map which shows the locations of great festive displays from stores across the Tweed (pictured: Samson and Sue from Chillingham General Store)

Your favourite trees from across the Tweed revealed!

Last month, Council's Favourite Tree of the Tweed competition invited residents to submit photos of their favourite urban trees, with 2 prizes awarded to the photos receiving the most votes.

The standout winner with 42 votes was the impressive Moreton Bay Fig tree in Murwillumbah submitted by Jenny Hayes and titled “Dreaming Tree”.

Two runner-up prizes were awarded to Tracey Daniels and Liz Farmer with their entries “Bilambil Heights Tree” and “Life”.

The winning entries received a nursery gift voucher to purchase native trees, with first place also taking home 6 bags of compost produced by Soilco from Tweed’s Organics Processing Facility and a gardening maintenance kit.

Ms Hayes described the strength and wisdom of the beautiful fig tree on Tumbulgum Road by saying “It always gave me much peace overlooking the Tweed River and to feel its strength with its massive root system and breathtaking beauty.”

In total, 23 entries were received for the competition

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

DA23/0570 - Use of unit 1 as constructed and alterations & additions to existing dual occupancy (attached) involving a first floor addition, portico extension and new carport Lot 3 SP 55146, SP 31589, Unit 1/No. 21 Bosun Boulevard, Banora Point

DA24/0297 - Two storey dwelling with attached garage, earthworks and retaining Lot 40DP 1266201, No. 96 McAllisters Road, Bilambil Heights

DA24/0272 - Replacement of two existing illuminated pylon signs (BP Service Centre)

Lot 2 DP 1010771, No. 1 Ozone Street, Chinderah

DA24/0276 - Secondary dwelling

Lot 1 DP 1158677, No. 647 Cudgen Road, Cudgen

DA24/0372 - Outbuilding (shed)

Lot 4 DP 785627, No. 24 Minnows Road, Fernvale

DA24/0427 - 1.8 metre front fence with sliding gates

Lot 1 DP 810063, No. 792 Cudgen Road, Kingscliff

DA24/0506 - In ground swimming pool, Lot 145 DP 1066504, No. 5 Narrabeen Street, Kingscliff

DA24/0499 - Swimming pool

Lot 23 DP 786670, No. 23 Garden Avenue, Nunderi

DA24/0194 - Eight (8) lot strata subdivision

Lot 2 DP 826879, No. 5-7 Lundberg Drive, South Murwillumbah

DA24/0409 - Demolition of existing dwelling and pool and construction of new dwelling and pool

Lot 16 DP 778328, No. 623 Terranora Road, Terranora

DA24/0527 - Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including house raising

Lot 1 DP 773342, No. 8599 Tweed Valley Way, Tumbulgum

DA24/0434 - Alterations and additions to an existing dwelling, 1.5m front fence with gate and carport forward of building line

Lot 13 DP 215458, No. 4 Moolau Avenue, Tweed Heads

DA24/0467 - Alterations and additions to existing dwelling

Lot 85 DP 246488, No. 18 Meridian Way, Tweed Heads

DA24/0436 - Swimming pool and deck

Lot 10DP 1080483, No. 28 Philp Parade, Tweed Heads South

DA24/0461 - Inground swimming pool

Lot 9 DP 1182030, No. 9 Limosa Road, Tweed Heads West

DA22/0450 - Use of existing dwelling alterations, dwelling additions, carport, demolition of shed, secondary dwelling, studio and shed

Lot 13 DP 790517, No. 47 Braeside Drive, Uki

Refused

DA24/0388 - 20 lot community title subdivision comprising of 19 residential lots and 1 common property Lot

Lot 3 DP 250581, No. 4A Boyle Avenue, Banora Point

The above development determinations are available for public inspection free of charge at the Planning and Regulation Division, Murwillumbah Civic Centre, during ordinary office hours or viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au

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 WATER WEEK 10 Check when your water meter is read at tweed.nsw.gov.au/meter-reading

which was part of Council’s Cool Towns Urban Forest Program. This initiative aims to highlight the benefit of trees for increasing shade and cooling in areas where concrete and asphalt absorb heat.

View the photos and find out more about Council’s Cool Towns Urban Forest Program at yoursaytweed.com.au/cool-towns

New bond to protect public infrastructure

From 1 January 2025, Council will require a new security bond for non-subdivision Development Applications (DAs) and Complying Development Certificates (CDCs).

This new bond is to address ongoing issues with damage to public assets from private construction works. Director Planning and Regulation Denise Galle said the initiative would help shift the responsibility for damage to the parties directly involved.

“For many years, damage to shared community assets such as footpaths, roads, stormwater drains, and kerbs has been an issue,” Ms Galle said.

“Up until now, Council has absorbed the cost of these repairs, placing a considerable burden on ratepayer resources. This will help to ensure that those who are responsible for damage are held accountable, while fostering responsible building practices.”

Council staff will be available to provide support and answer any questions throughout the DA and CDA process.

For more information, including bond amounts and FAQs, go to tweed.nsw.gov.au/development-bond-guarantee

Council Meeting Agenda - Wednesday 11 December 2024

The Council Meeting Agenda for Wednesday 11 December 2024 is available on Council's website tweed.nsw.gov.au/ councillors-meetings. The meeting will be held at the Council Chambers, Murwillumbah Civic & Cultural Centre, Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah commencing at 3.30pm.

The agenda for these meetings, which may also include any late or supplementary reports, will be updated prior to the date of the meetings and is available on Council’s website. It should be noted that confidential items are considered in closed session, which excludes media and public. Also, the minutes of these meetings will be available as soon as practical following the meetings and are unconfirmed until they are formally adopted at the next Council meeting. Please be aware that meetings are livestreamed, and video recordings will be available on Council’s website following the meeting. A person’s image and/or voice may be broadcast. Attendance at the meeting is to be taken as consent by a person to their image and/or voice being webcast.

Agenda

Reports for consideration

Confirmation of minutes

8.4 Review of Determination of Development Application DA22/0542 for extension to an existing storage premises at Lot 2 DP 863736 No. 942 Cudgera Creek Road, Cudgera Creek

5.1. Confirmation of minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting held Thursday 21 November 2024

Schedule of outstanding resolutions

8.1. Schedule of Outstanding Resolutions as at 3 December 2024

Mayoral minute

9.1. Mayoral Minute for November 2024

9.2. Mayoral Minute - Southern Cross University Withdrawal of Arts Degrees

Orders of the day

11.1. Turf Wars

11.2. Business Investment Policy To Be Clarified That It Applies To Complying Development Certificates As Well As Development Applications

11.3. Rescue Tubes and Defibrillator

11.4. Graffiti on Private Property

11.5. Wyuna Road/Terranora Creek Foreshore Rehabilitation Project

11.6. Perimenopause / Menopause

11.7. Local Community Working Group to Discuss How to Reopen Wollumbin / Mount Warning with the Hire of Indigenous Rangers and the Establishment of a Cultural Centre

11.8. Fire Ant Workshop Request with National Fire Ant Program and NSW Department of Primary Industries Questions with notice

12.1. Protecting Tweed Shire Animals Marine and Birdlife From Improperly Discarded Fishing Line and Gear

12.2. Short-term Solution To Desperate Need For Basketball Courts In The Tweed

12.3. Green Bin Service Expansion

12.4. Tweed Coast Roadworks - Kings Forest

12.5. Christmas in the Tweed Shire

12.6. Holiday Season and Unfinished Roadworks

12.7. Holiday Season and Public Bins

12.8. Holiday Season and Illegal Camping

12.9. Plans for Implementation of the Mobile CCTV Cameras

12.10. Wyuna Road/Terranora Creek Foreshore Project Reports from the director planning and regulation

16.1. DA24/0077 for the use of alterations and additions to an existing dwelling, construction of new alterations and additions to an existing dwelling including swimming pool and associated decking at Lot 37 DP 1266201 No.

88 McAllisters Road, Bilambil Heights

16.2. DA17/0573.02 for an amendment to Development Consent DA17/0573 for a mixed-use development comprising of creative industries precinct over 3 stages, establishment of a bar and restaurant, boundary adjustment/subdivision and signage (MArts) at Lot 1 DP 202712 Brisbane Street, Murwillumbah; Lot 1 DP 439512 No. 1 Brisbane Street, Murwillumbah; Lot 3 DP 772263 No. 103 Wollumbin Street, Murwillumbah; Lot 1 DP 123065 & Lot 4 DP 772263 Wollumbin Street, Murwillumbah

16.3. DA24/0370 for a part change of use of an existing mixed-use development (MArts) to include retail and office tenancies and a beauty salon at Lot 1 DP 202712 Brisbane Street, Murwillumbah; Lot 1 DP 439512 No. 1 Brisbane Street, Murwillumbah; Lot 3 DP 772263; No. 103 Wollumbin Street, Murwillumbah; Lot 1 DP 123065 & Lot 4 DP 772263 Wollumbin Street, Murwillumbah

16.4. DA23/0444 for a residential flat building consisting of 36 units over four storeys and at grade carparking, signage and earthworks at Lot 2 DP 559208 No. 7-9 Shallow Bay Drive, Tweed Heads South

16.5. DA24/0445 for use of general industrial units and installation of signage at Lot 216 DP 1122768 No. 8-12 Honeyeater Circuit, South Murwillumbah

16.6. Growth Management and Housing Strategy - Draft Options Paper for Adoption and Preparation of Strategy

16.7. Endorsement of the Affordable Housing Strategy

16.8. PP24/0006 (PP-2024-463) to enable a dwelling house on Lot 1 DP 818394 Clothiers Creek Road, Bogangar

16.9. PP-2024-2340 for 133-193 Dulguigan Road, Dulguigan

Reports from the director sustainable Communities and environment

17.1. Tweed Conservation Strategy 2025-2035

17.2. Draft Volunteer Management Policy

17.3. RFO2024122 Construction of Eleven (11) Car Parks and Access Roads Across the Tweed Shire

Reports from the director engineering

18.1. Bray Park Weir - Mitigation Saltwater Contamination of the Tweed District Water Supply Options Assessment

18.2. RFO2024016 - Church Street Slip Remediation Construct Only

18.3. RFO2024160 - Kyogle D,E,F,H and Mount Warning Bridge

18.4. RFO2024165: 2024-25 Asphalt Rejuvenation Program and Asphalt Rejuvenation Panel of Providers

Reports from the director corporate services

19.1. Disclosure of Interest Return

19.2. 2023-2024 Annual Report on Councillor Request System

19.3. Review - Code of Meeting Practice Policy

19.4. Legal Services Register Report - 1 July 2024 to 30 September 2024

19.5. Annual Code of Conduct

Reports from sub-committees/working groups

21.1. Minutes of the Aboriginal Advisory Committee meetings held Friday 1 March 2024, Friday 5 April 2024, Friday 7 June 2024 and Friday 1 August 2024

21.2. Minutes of the Tweed Coast and Waterways Advisory Committee Meeting held Wednesday 14 August 2024

21.3. Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee Meeting held Thursday 14 November 2024

Reports from the director planning and regulation in committee

31.1. Pocket Herbs DA13/0712 Compliance Matter

The Tweed’s Favourite Tree, 2024 – “Dreaming Tree” located on Tumbulgum Road, overlooking the Tweed River.

Don’t miss out on Tweed Link – subscribe now

To receive next week’s issue of the Tweed Link, you’ll need to be a subscriber. We won’t be appearing in print the Tweed Valley Weekly due to festive season production changes and deadlines. Instead, why not sign up for free as a subscriber and never miss an issue? The Tweed Link will be delivered direct to your inbox every Wednesday. It’s easy – head to tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe. You’ll find a great range of e-newsletters and alerts there, too.

Proposed road closing under section 38B Roads act 1993

Have your say

Add your voice to decision making in the Tweed

Have your say

Add your voice to decision making in the Tweed Tweed coastal creeks flood risk management study and plan update

Your experiences with flooding are valuable. We want to hear from you about past flood events in the Tweed coastal creeks catchments (Cudgen, Cudgera, Mooball and Marshalls creeks). Your insights will help shape a better understanding of flood behaviour and guide future flood risk management in your area. Provide valuable feedback to ensure it aligns with the community's understanding of flooding in Tweed’s coastal creeks.

Have your say

Learn more and complete the online survey by Sunday 19 January 2025 at yoursaytweed.com.au/coastal-creeks

Alternatively, a paper version is available from our Tweed Heads and Murwillumbah administration offices.

Council confidentiality policy: On request, any submission including identifying particulars will be made public. Council will give consideration to the ‘Public Interest’ and requests for confidentiality however, the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 may require confidential submissions to be released to an applicant.

Help us make decisions with you Register at yoursaytweed.com.au

In pursuance of the provisions of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Tweed Shire Council proposes to close a section of the Council public road listed in Schedule 1.

Schedule 1:

Road closure of the Unnamed Council Road adjacent to Prince Street, Murwillumbah (adjoining 38 Brisbane Street, Murwillumbah; Lot 1 in DP524512).

Upon closure of the road, Council intends to sell the land to an adjoining land owner.

All interested persons are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal to the General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816, Murwillumbah NSW 2484, within 42 days of the date of this advertisement. Please note that under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, such submissions may be referred to third parties for consideration.

Once the submission period is completed, Tweed Shire Council will consider (via a Council Meeting) all duly made submissions before deciding whether to continue with the road closure proposal.

Council confidentiality policy: On request, any

Interest’ and requests for confidentiality however, the Government

submissions to be released to an applicant.

Council Ref: Unnamed Council Road – Prince Street, Murwillumbah Enquiries: Kelly Lorkin – Telephone: 02 66702400 For the General Manager, Tweed Shire Council

Murwillumbah

Unnamed Road

Seasons Greetings

From all of us at Tweed Shire Council, we wish you a happy and safe festive season

We’re still here when you need us when it’s an emergency with a Council-related service. Please call 02 6670 2400. Or you can report a non urgent problem online at tweed.nsw.gov.au/report-problem.

We will still have staff behind the scenes maintaining essential services.

Your bin collections will continue as normal over the festive break.

A number of Council facilities will remain open, or with reduced operating days and times during this period. Please check their websites for details. These include:

•Tweed Regional Aquatic Centres (TRAC) – trac.tweed.nsw.gov.au

•Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre – gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au

•Tweed Regional Museum – museum.tweed.nsw.gov.au

•Richmond Tweed Regional Library – rtrl.nsw.gov.au

•Northern Rivers Rail Trail – northernriversrailtrail.com.au

•Visitor Information Centres – visitthetweed.com.au

Council’s offices at Tweed Heads and Murwillumbah will be closed from Monday 23 December to Friday 3 January and re-open at 9 am on Monday 6 January. Follow

Banora’s new fire captain

By Jo Kennett

FIRE AND Rescue Banora Point has a new captain, with Deputy Captain Jamie Bowe taking over the reins from Daryl Pearce who has retired after 38 years of service.

“Our previous captain, Daryl Pearce, served with Fire and Rescue NSW (formerly NSW Fire Brigades) for 38 years,” Mr Bowe said.

“Daryl had worked at Banora Point Fire Station since the year 2000, and progressed to the rank of captain shortly after.

“He achieved many significant improvements for our station during his service.”

Mr Bowe is also a long-time member of the Banora Point brigade, joining in 2014.

“I’ve been with Fire and Rescue NSW for ten years as of November 14, with the last five years being in the role of Deputy Captain,” he said.

“It’s gone fast, and a lot has changed in that short time.

“The thing I’ve loved the most since becoming a firefighter has always remained simple; working as a crew member at emergencies and during training.

“However, I am looking forward to developing and leading my crew of 15 firefighters.”

When he isn’t fighting fires and building fire safety and resilience in the community, Mr Bowe works as an electrician for a small business in the Tweed.

“Thankfully my employer is very accommodating, releasing me for emergencies as required,” he said.

“My boss also has previously volunteered for an emergency service, so has a strong understanding of the demands of on-call community roles.

“For firefighting, it’s always been about getting hands on and honing my skills.

“As for being in a management position, I love engaging with our community and seeing the improvements my team and I make from our efforts.”

Mr Bowe has a young family which makes it challenging at times.

“I make sure to stay organised and provide a good amount of time for my family,” Mr Bowe said.

My wife has previously worked as a firefighter for Fire and Rescue NSW and still works as a registered nurse at the Tweed Valley Hospital.

“Her support and understanding has been very crucial over the years.

“My two children, Theodore and Adeline, thoroughly enjoy attending the station.”

The newly-minted captain says he has no plans to change things at the brigade.

“It’s been smooth sailing so far, and I intend to keep it that way,” he said.

“We have an excellent team of firefighters at Banora Point Fire Station and I’m very grateful for the people we have here.

“My goal is to continue to ensure we maintain a high standard and enjoy our work together in the process.”

Jamie Bowe has been promoted to captain of Fire and Rescue NSW Station 514, Banora Point

Ten constables for Tweed

By Jonathon Howard

A HANDY new pay agreement and push for more cops on the beat appears to be paying off for the state government, as NSW marked the largest class of NSW Police graduates in a decade this week.

The Tweed will now pick up 10 new police recruits for the Tweed-Byron Police District, which both Member for Tweed Geoff Provest and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin — who welcomed 22 new constables to three police district commands — said came as welcome news.

“This is exciting news for the Tweed as 10 new recruits will be joining the ranks at the Tweed-Byron Police District,” Mr Provest said.

“I would like to welcome the newest officers to our beautiful region and extend our grati -

tude to them for choosing a career in law enforcement.”

Mr Provest highlighted the recruits’ eight months of training at the Police Academy, together with the next 12 months of on-the-job they will complete under the close guidance of senior police.

“Which will ensure they are more than adequately prepared to step into this important role,” he said.

Mr Provest also acknowledged the challenging role of local cops as encountering the best and worst of humanity.

“Policing can be an extremely challenging profession,” he said.

“Our officers encounter the best and the worst of humanity in the line of duty, so I’m very pleased that our community will benefit from the enthusiasm of 10 new officers starting their career on the beat.”

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley, said this is a monumental day for NSW Police.

“Class 364 is the largest attesting class in a decade — overwhelming evidence the tide is turning on recruitment. Next year is set to be even bigger, with more than 1,000 recruits attesting.

“The NSW Government backs our police to the hilt. We are focused on retaining experienced officers and recruiting new ones which is why we’ve secured a historic pay deal, we’re paying recruits to train and offering recruits from the bush a pathway to work in or near their hometown after attesting.

“Congratulations to Class 364. Today marks the start of what I hope is a long, rich and rewarding career with the NSW Police Force.”

Infinite Aged Care

Based in Bilambil, we are growing our team and looking for kind hearted people to work in Hotel Services, Cleaning and Hospitality. We are hiring for the following roles:

• Hospitality Assistant

• Housekeeping Assistant

Scan the QR code to apply online or take a tab and email your resume to recruitment@infin8care.com.au

A recent record number of police recruits have graduated this month

Two funding boosts from Labor

By Jonathon Howard

IN A major boost for the Tweed, Member for Richmond Justine Elliot has announced two significant funding allocations from the Albanese Labor Government to support vulnerable communities in Murwillumbah and Tweed.

The Murwillumbah Community Centre is set to receive $360,000 in funding under the government’s Strong and Resilient Communities – Inclusive Communities program. The grant will be directed towards Nullum House, a vital social inclusion drop-in centre that serves people facing social isolation, homelessness, mental health challenges, and economic disadvantage.

Nullum House provides meals, social activities, and skills and training programs, offering much-needed support to those in the community who need it most.

“This funding will ensure Nullum House continues its crucial work in helping individuals improve their lives and feel part of the community,” said Ms Elliot, who is the Assistant Minister for Social Services, and Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence.

“As your local Labor MP, I am incredibly proud to deliver this $360,000 to help this essential service keep running and growing.” The grant for Nullum House

builds on a long-standing commitment from the Labor Party to support the Murwillumbah Community Centre.

Ms Elliot reflected on her previous visit to the site, recalling the 2011 announcement alongside Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to build a new, larger centre.

The new centre, opened in 2012, has since provided a diverse range of services for the region, and this new grant will ensure that the community’s most vulnerable continue to receive the support they need.

Meanwhile, Agape Outreach, another important local organisation, will also receive $360,000 to fund its Increasing Inclusion and Resilience project.

This initiative aims to support people with disabilities and mental health challenges by strengthening their social connections, improving their sense of belonging, and providing life and job skills training.

“This funding will enable Agape Outreach to provide critical services like job readiness training and one-on-one mental health support, helping vulnerable people feel included and empowered,” Ms Elliot told The Weekly.

“The project is focused on tackling social isolation and improving employment prospects, helping participants to thrive both socially and economically.” Both of these grants come from

the Strong and Resilient Communities – Inclusive Communities program, which is designed to assist community-driven projects that target social isolation and other barriers faced by disadvantaged groups.

Ms Elliot emphasised the importance of supporting local organisations that understand the community’s unique needs and can create lasting change.

“The work being done by both Murwillumbah Community Centre and Agape Outreach is invaluable,” she said.

“These are two organisations that truly understand their communities and are doing amazing things to foster inclusion, build resilience, and create opportunities for those who need it most.”

For more information about the Strong and Resilient Communities grants, visit the Department of Social Services website.

SERVICES:

• Medical Services

• Women’s Health

• Allied Health

• Skin Check

• Travel Vaccines

• Senior’s Care

• On-Site Chemist

• On-Site Pathology

Agape Outreach will receive $360,000 to fund inclusion and resilience

Nullum House drop-in centre received support

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Fire ant fight futile?

By Jonathon Howard

THERE’S GROWING concern that the war against the red import fire ant could fail and Councillor Meredith Dennis will raise multiple motions this week calling for longer bans on Queensland turf into Northern NSW as well as updates from the National Fire Ant Eradication Program.

Cr Dennis’s concerns followed the recent detection of the invasive species in Byron Shire last month, and she will raise a motion during council’s final meeting for 2024 this week to tackle the issue.

Cr Dennis said she wants the three-month ban on turf coming from Queensland to be extended to five years and for more turf to be sourced from NSW instead.

“Even though this load of turf to Byron from Queensland was checked and had the correct paperwork, six queen fire ants were discovered in the turf, so to say this program is working it’s simply not true,” she said.

“It was just lucky that the worker spreading the turf noticed the ants and raised the alarm and it has since been treated.

“However, think of all those undetected loads or any alleged unchecked turf that authorities have missed, could this material have carried into the Tweed the fire ant — it’s highly likely the fire ant is already here.”

Cr Dennis said it remains only a matter of time before the Tweed and Byron shires become infested with fire ants and she’s concerned the regulations to protect NSW do not go far enough.

“I do not want people to be alarmed by this, but we need to acknowledge that the Queensland fire ant infesta tion is not going away and in particular Brisbane and Gold Coast,

Murwillumbah Public School

therefore we need to protect Northern NSW, some of the most biodiverse landscape in the world from becoming infested as well,” she said.

“One of the only ways I see this being achieved is to lock out Queensland turf, known to carry the fire ant, for five years and source either spray on turf or NSW-based material.”

Cr Dennis said fire ants have been active in Queensland for more than 20 years and the spread of fire ants is increasing north of the Tweed, “and the eradication program is not working”.

“Our community are becoming increasingly concerned with the spray of pesticides over our waterways and our organic farms,” she said.

“We need a stronger approach to ensure we protect an already sensitive environment at the border.”

Cr Dennis will also move that council requests a workshop with the National Fire Ant Eradication Program leads and NSW Department of Primary Industry (DPI) to detail the current aerial baiting and ground baiting for fire ants in the Tweed Shire.

“How many nests have been found?” she asked.

“How many helicopter flights have been made over our shire, how much bait (weight) has been distributed, how many properties have been baited and information on the proven effectiveness of the National Fire Ant Erad -

Enrolling at Murwillumbah Public School

Murwillumbah Public School is accepting enrolments for 2025. The school is an outstanding choice for primary school education. School features include:

• Small class sizes

• Consistently demonstrated excellent Naplan and academic results

• Brilliant dance and music programs

• Targeted explicit teaching maximising every student’s potential

• Committed and experienced teaching and support staff

• Outstanding sporting opportunities.

Murwillumbah Public School offers a rich, balanced curriculum in a learning environment that is both modern and respectful of its long and successful history. In 2024 the school was nominated, and reached the nal, for most outstanding rural school in Australia. Students focus strongly on the school’s key values of Respect, Responsibility and Learning and this creates a vibrant and harmonious school culture where every student is known and valued.

All students return to school on Thursday 1st February 2025 however to ensure great support for kindergarten students they don’t commence

until 9.30am. We cant wait to see them ready and excited about beginning their learning journey at Murwillumbah Public School.

If you are looking to enrol please email the school on: Murwillumb-p.school@det.nsw. edu.au

Wishing all a safe and enjoyable holiday period.

PET PHOTOS SANTA!!

Japanese students loving Tweed life

By Jonathon Howard

IN A heartwarming cultural exchange for local families, 12 Japanese students from Shimonoseki Secondary School in Yamaguchi spent 11 nights in the Tweed creating lasting memories.

The students had the chance to explore the beauty of the Tweed, despite poor weather conditions and persistent rain.

The students, Yuzuki, Takushin, Fakuharu, Kazuha, Aoi, Ayaka, Yuloihide, Sari, Rui, Yukuzi, Reiko, and Norihira, arrived with excitement and curiosity, according to one host, Benita Walton, who lives in Murwillumbah.

“Although the weather occasionally dampened plans for outdoor activities, the group made the most of their time, enjoying various attractions in the area,” Benita told The Weekly.

“Highlights included a visit to Brisbane, where they explored the city’s sights, and a trip to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where they encountered Australia’s iconic animals.

“The students also spent a fun-filled day at Dreamworld, Australia’s popular theme park, and watched Moana 2 at the movies.”

In addition to these adventures, the students enjoyed Tweed experiences such as barbecues at friends’ houses, visits to the Tweed Regional Gallery, and a beautiful walk at Cabarita Headland, one of their highlights.

“They also tried their hands at pickleball at Murwillumbah Tennis Courts, rode bikes on the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, and even attended the Murwillumbah Museum opening,” Benita said.

When asked about their time in the Tweed, the students expressed admiration for the region’s stunning nature.

“The nature is beautiful here,” said one of the students.

“Our favourite was Cabarita Headland and the beach.”

One of the standout experiences the students shared was the friendliness of the people.

“Australians are so friendly,” said another student.

“They smile and help you a lot and hug you.”

The exchange program was made possible thanks to the hard work and organisation of Choice Homestay, who supported the students throughout their stay.

However, due to the high number of participants — 60 students in total — there were challenges finding enough homes for all the students in the area.

Future host families are encouraged to consider participating in the program, as it offers a unique opportunity for both students and local families to learn from one another and build meaningful connections.

Choice homestay pays hosts a nightly income to cover costs. Anyone wanting to find out more is encouraged to visit: choicehomestay.com/

Left to right: Iluka, Benita, Aoi, Kazuha, Yukuzi, Ayaka, Reiko

TRADING HOURS

Christmas toy drive

By Jonathon Howard

AS DONATIONS are set to close soon, The Salvation Army, Newcastle Permanent and Tweed City Greater Bank are calling on the community to help share the magic of Christmas by contributing to their annual Christmas Toy Drive Appeal.

A 36-year-old tradition between The Salvation Army and Newcastle Permanent, the annual Toy Drive provides thousands of gifts to children and families in need each year.

Despite many donations already received from the community, there are still hundreds of families in need this Christmas.

This year, hundreds of Barbies, LEGO sets, and sports equipment are expected to be unwrapped on Christmas morning, bringing joy to children across the region.

The Salvation Army Public Relations and Community Fundraising Manager, Rod Dibley, encouraged the community to add a gift for a child in need to their shopping list.

“If you haven’t donated yet but would like to, we suggest gift vouchers for teenagers, with toys, books and games for younger children,” Mr Dibley said.

“Every gift — large or small — makes a huge difference. Even a small toy can make a brilliant stocking filler to bring a smile to a young person’s face on Christmas morning.”

NGM Group’s Head of Community and Sustainability, Kirrah McClelland, said the community’s response has been overwhelming.

“Times are tough for many families, so we are touched by the generosity shown by our customers and the Tweed community this year,” she said.

“Every child deserves to feel the excitement and joy of unwrapping a gift on Christmas morning, and we thank the community for their support.”

Last year more than 7,000 gifts were donated at Newcastle Permanent and Greater Bank branches across regional NSW and Queensland, and with more families than ever facing challenges to put presents under the tree, the organisation hopes to support as many families as possible.

Donations can be made at any Newcastle Permanent or Greater Bank branch until Friday, December 13. Gifts should be new and unwrapped and are accepted for all ages, including teenagers.

Flood recovery gatherings

By Jonathon Howard

IT HAS been almost three years since the devastating 2022 Tweed flood and the recovery has been a long and challenging journey for many residents, particularly those in Chinderah, a community still grappling with the aftermath.

After the initial cleanup and the struggle to find temporary accommodation, many flood-affected residents have continued to face mental health challenges, financial difficulties and feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Seniors and vulnerable residents, including those in permanent caravan parks, have been particularly impacted by these ongoing struggles.

Recognising these struggles, the Rotary Club of Banora Tweed, in partnership with Anglicare and The Chinderah Hub, has stepped up to help rebuild the social fabric of the community.

In July 2024, the three organisations launched two new initiatives: ‘Lunch Ladies’ and ‘Breakfast Brothers’, designed to help local men and women reconnect, build relationships, and combat isolation.

Rotary Club of Banora Tweed member David Stubbin kindly updated The Weekly on the initiative.

“These casual events, held at the Chinderah Scout Hall, offer free breakfast and lunch to attendees, providing an opportunity for friendly conversation and the creation of new social networks,” he said.

“The program has been especially impactful for individuals like Lyn, a widow with no family nearby.

“She shared how difficult it was for her to make connections before attending the ladies lunches.”

“The ladies lunches have had a massive impact on my social life,” Lyn said.

“I look forward to it every fortnight and have met some lovely ladies who are now my friends.

“I particularly enjoyed celebrating Melbourne Cup and Christmas with everyone.”

Both Lunch Ladies and Breakfast Brothers aim to provide a regular, informal space for people to gather and support each other, helping to restore a sense of community that had been disrupted by the floods.

Lunch Ladies will resume on the first Tuesday of February at 11am at the Chinderah Scout Hall, continuing every first and third Tuesday thereafter.

Breakfast Brothers will start up again on the second and fourth Tuesdays of February at 9am at the same location.

These events are open to all, and everyone is encouraged to attend, meet new people, and form lasting relationships.

In a time when rebuilding isn’t just about homes but also about hearts, Lunch Ladies and Breakfast Brothers are helping bring the community of Chinderah back together, one conversation at a time.

By Suzi Bourke

CABA CREATIVE has joined forces with the Retros group at the Cabarita Surf Life Saving Club to dress up Cabarita Beach for Christmas.

For the last three years we have yarn bombed the trees in the main street and Pandanus Avenue. The joy we receive is immeasurable. As we install, cars toot and people yell out their appreciation.

This year we extended our skills to the bollards on the headland.

As people drive along Tweed Coast Road at the headland they will see 30 Santas lined up.

The children love looking at all the different types of beards Santa has. Merry Christmas from the community of Bogangar. May 2025 bring inspiration and friendship to all.

The yarn bombing team

Snazzy Santa

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Through PONANT’s alliance with The Explorers Club, this voyage will feature Dr. Natalie Schmitt, an ecologist, conservation geneticist, and documentary filmmaker dedicated to protecting biodiversity. Natalie’s work combines science, art, Indigenous knowledge, public education, and community empowerment to safeguard endangered species like Antarctic whales. Discover the Southern Ocean as you have never seen it before.

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Jumping castle Drink specials

FREE EVENT

XPORT FRIDAY 20TH DECEMBER

This is a family friendly event with the fat man in the red suit, making an appearance from 5.30pm.

Rescue tubes at Tweed beaches

By Graham Dietrich

YOU MAY have seen the red rescue tube boxes (pictured) appear along the coast at some beaches.

Tweed Shire Council and Surf Life Saving NSW recently installed the new beach safety devices at nine locations along the Tweed Coast. The devices will aid rescuers trying to assist people struggling in the water to stay afloat until additional help arrives, particularly important if no lifeguards are on patrol at the time.

The rescue tubes have been installed at the following locations: Tweed Heads — Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Places to Swim (central beach area); Fingal Head — Fingal Rovers Surf Life Saving Club and Dreamtime Beach (attached to emergency beacon); Kingscliff — North Kingscliff Beach (attached to emergency beacon) and Cudgen Headland Surf Life Saving Club (in front of café attached to SLSC); Salt — Salt Surf Life Saving Club (attached to Salt Tower); Bogangar/Cabarita Beach — Cabarita Beach Surf Life Saving Club; Hastings Point — Cudgera Creek river mouth (end of Peninsula St along four-wheel drive access) and Pottsville — Mooball Creek river mouth.

If you see someone in trouble in the water, call 000 or get someone to call 000 before you do anything. If you do this, help is on its way. Get a surfer’s assistance if you can.

If you are not a strong swimmer, do not attempt a rescue, find someone to help.

If you do decide to help, take the tube, put the strap over one shoulder and drag the tube behind you as you swim out.

If you are feeling exhausted and out of breath, stop swimming, float and catch your breath before continuing, otherwise you might need

rescuing too. It is not uncommon for rescuers to get into trouble because they get exhausted.

When approaching the patient, keep clear and push the tube towards them. Instruct them to hold on and remain calm.

Hold onto the tube with the pa tient and signal for help by raising and waving your arm and then wait for help.

If no help is coming, slowly make your way back to shore, being careful not to exhaust yourself.

You can also see a video on the correct way to use rescue tubes by going to YouTube and searching for ‘Rescue Tube Safety Info.’

Australian Lifeguard Services lifeguard Finn Whitney demonstrates the rescue device

Street leaders wanted

“Disasters cut power and phones, but communication saves lives.

“Join us in connecting those in need with critical support.”

MCORE is seeking zone and street leaders in high-flood-risk areas to be provided with qualified training and essential equipment, including communication tools, power supplies and cleaning resources.

“To help leaders support their neighbours and organise during disasters,” Ms Semple said.

“This is your chance to step up and make a real difference in the lives of those around you.”

MCORE is also working toward securing a permanent community space where residents can find support during all phases of a disaster.

“Our vision is a town united by collaboration, resilience and a shared commitment to helping one another through any challenge,” Ms Semple said.

“We need your help! Whether you can volunteer your time, join a leadership role, contribute resources, or spread the word, every effort counts.”

Anyone wanting to nominate as a zone or street leader is encouraged to visit the website via: mcore2484.org and fill out a volunteer form.

BORDER BOLTS & FASTENERS

We will be closing 12 noon Wednesday 18th and Re-Opening Tuesday 14th January 2025

Steve and Juanita would like to thank you for all your continued support during 2022. We look forward to assisting your needs in 2023.

BUILDERS SUPPLIES

• Bolts • Nuts • Washers • Screws • Stainless Steel • Hi-Tensile • Mild Steel • Masonry Fittings • Drills • Cut-o Wheels COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF :

Threaded rods & components, sisilation, nail guns, stainless steel balustrading,

engineering supplies, post supports, drills, taps & dies & abrasives, silicon & sealants. FULL RANGE OF:

Hi-Tensile, mild steel & stainless steel fasteners to service the needs of the local building & earthmoving industry, the boat enthusiast & handyman.

Generosity in action

By Jonathon Howard

MAUREEN FIREHOCK, the CEO of Kennedy Drive, PKG, and Bilambil Heights Medical Centres, has once again stepped up this Christmas, with a remarkable gesture of generosity, personally donating 100 Christmas hampers to Fred’s Place, the homeless shelter run by St Vincent de Paul at Tweed Heads.

This is not a one-time act of kindness for Ms Firehock, who has for the past nine years donated Christmas hampers to Fred’s Place.

Fred’s Place is a is a drop-in service for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing their homes.

Ms Firehock’s latest donation has brought both joy and hope to Fred’s Place clients with each hamper thoughtfully curated and brimming with essentials and festive treats.

“We are truly thankful for Maureen’s unwavering support,” a spokesperson for Fred’s Place told The Weekly.

“Her donations are a reminder that commu-

Gourmet Meals

nity spirit is alive and well in Tweed Heads.

“She exemplifies the kind of leadership that inspires others to give back.”

The donation was delivered by Ms Firehock herself, assisted by doctors and staff from the three medical centres she oversees.

When asked about her motivation, she said the festive season is about coming together and lifting one another.

“I am deeply moved by the resilience of those who visit Fred’s Place, and it’s an honour to contribute in whatever way I can to bring them comfort and cheer,” she said.

Ms Firehock’s actions not only provide immediate relief, but also highlight the pressing issue of homelessness in the region — urging others to take notice and contribute where they can.

This inspiring story reminds us that generosity can transform lives and foster a stronger, more caring society.

To find out more about Fred’s Place please visit: vinnies.org.au/nsw/articles/welcome-andsafe-at-freds-place

At Gourmet Meals, we are dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of older adults through meticulously crafted meals that meet their evolving nutritional needs. Nutrition over 55 isn’t just about weight management—it’s essential for maintaining vitality, enhancing immune function, and enjoying an active lifestyle.

As metabolic rates slow with age, the need for nutrient-dense foods becomes crucial. Malnutrition in seniors is a serious issue that often goes unnoticed or overlooked. As we age, our bodies experience various changes that can affect our

ability to obtain and absorb vital nutrients. Unfortunately, malnutrition can have severe consequences for seniors, including weakened immune systems, increased risk of infections, muscle weakness, and even cognitive decline. At Gourmet Meals, we recognise the importance of addressing this issue and providing nutritious meals specifically designed for seniors.

There are several factors that contribute to malnutrition in seniors. One of the main reasons is a decrease in appetite. As we age, our sense of taste and smell may diminish, reducing interest in food. Additionally,

certain medications can affect appetite and digestion, making it more challenging for seniors to consume an adequate amount of nutrients. Dental problems, difficulty chewing or swallowing, and limited mobility can also contribute to malnutrition in our aging population.

At Gourmet Meals, we understand the unique nutritional needs of seniors and the importance of providing them with balanced and nourishing meals. Our expert chefs and nutritionists collaborate to create menus catering to seniors’ dietary needs. We focus on using fresh, whole ingredients packed with es-

sential nutrients, ensuring that every meal is not only delicious but also highly nutritious and snap-frozen to maintain its nutritional value.

Gourmet Meals are registered to accept clients with Home Care Package funding, if you have HCP funding, please contact our office to find out how you can get 70% of your total order subsidised through your funding. Our office can be contacted on 1300 112 112 or 07 5529 3000, alternatively you can email us at sales@gourmetmeals.com. au

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Hampers ready for delivery to Fred's Place for Christmas with team members and CEO Maureen Firehock

Chr stm s mess ges

FEDERAL LABOR MEMBER FOR RICHMOND

Justine Elliot

Christmas is such a special time of year when families, friends, neighbours, and communities come together to celebrate the festive season.

Thank you to the dedicated volunteers, community groups, organisations, businesses and all the people who have worked to make our community even better throughout the year.

Thank you also to those who will be working over the holiday period and please remember to be extra kind to those on the front linesretail and service staff, police and emergency services, and everyone who’s spending their holidays working in our community.

I’m also thinking of those who can’t be with loved ones this year and those who are facing challenging times this season.

It’s an honour to be your strong voice in the Albanese Labor Government.

In the new year I look forward to keeping on working with everyone - including opening some new exciting local projects that will really benefit our community.

My husband Craig and I wish you and your family a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year.

TWEED SHIRE COUNCIL MAYOR

Chris Cherry

Christmas means different things for different people.

A time to come together, a time to share and reflect on the year that was, a time to catch up on rest.

Many of us drive ourselves so hard to get things done by Christmas that by the time we get there, we are too tired to really enjoy it.

Let’s make a collective decision this year to try to slow down and savour those moments of togetherness, whether with friends or family, because at the end of the day, they are what really matters.

This year has been another one of change and upheaval across the Shire, but also a time for some to find new homes, new beginnings and I am truly inspired by the way our community has not only picked itself up and got on with things but offered others a helping hand at the same time.

So bring on Christmas. Bring on those moments of joy and let’s let go of the frustrations of everyday life for a week or two. Please stay safe on the roads, don’t drink and drive – we risk too much when we do.

And let’s not forget all those who work in service industries that have to keep on keeping on all through the festive period and won’t get a break till everyone has had theirs.

To them we say thank you, to all we say have a very safe and Merry Christmas!

MEMBER FOR TWEED Geoff Provest

I want to take this opportunity to wish the people of the Tweed Shire a very Merry Christmas.

This year has brought its challenges, but it has also highlighted the strength and spirit of our community. I am proud to represent such a wonderful region.

Christmas is a time to reflect on the year gone by, appreciate the company of family and friends, and give thanks for the many blessings in our lives.

I encourage everyone to take time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the beautiful Tweed, we are so fortunate to live in.

Wishing you all a joyful, peaceful, and safe Christmas.

MEMBER FOR LISMORE Janelle Saffin

To all readers and staff of The Tweed Valley Weekly newspaper, their families and friends,

I take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and relaxing festive season.

After another busy year, this is a time for recharging the batteries, reconnecting with loved ones or reaching out to others who might be doing it tough.

Our flood recovery continues as we approach the third anniversary of a natural disaster which tragically took lives and changed so many more.

It was good to be in Murwillumbah recently to announce an additional $90 million in Commonwealth funding for the Resilient Homes Program, allowing more buybacks and resilience measures.

As State Member for Lismore and NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery I will always strongly advocate for my constituents, community groups and businesses in the Tweed Shire Local Government Area, and the wider Northern Rivers region.

Once again, my best wishes for Christmas-New Year.

Friday 13 December 2024, 6pm–8pm

Knox Park, Murwillumbah

Get ready to jingle all the way at our Carols in the Park! Round up your family and friends for a merry night filled with classic tunes and Christmas joy. Bring a picnic rug and let the caroling magic begin!

Performances by:

Dungay Public School

Feliz Navidad

Aussie Jingle Bells

Murwillumbah Learning Community

Joe Williams and Jack Scott

Christmas Performance

East Murwillumbah Public School

Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer

Wish you a Merry Christmas

Carly Fletcher

Go tell it on the Mountain

What Child is This

Mary’s Boy Child

Emmagen Rain

Last Christmas

Put a Little Holiday in Your Heart

O Holy Night

Murwillumbah Learning Community

Heath and Rainer Tiffen

Drummer Boy

Christmas Lights

Christmas in Killarney

Philharmonic Choir

Angels from the Realms Ding Dong Merrily on High Silver Stars

White Christmas

Emmagen Rain

Santa Doesn’t Know You Like I Do

Hallelujah

Voice Weavers

Jingle Bells

Calypso Clapping Carol

Santa Clause is Coming To Town

Joy to the World

De Virgin Mary

Winter Wonderland

Carol of the Birds

Finale

Away in a Manger

Silent Night

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

In the event of bad weather Carols in the Park will be relocated to Murwillumbah Learning Centre Auditorium

This event is proudly brought to you by Rotary Clubs Murwillumbah, Lions Club Murwillumbah, and Business Murwillumbah

AUSSIE JINGLE BELLS

Dashing through the bush, in a rusty Holden ute, Kicking up the dust, esky in the boot, Kelpie by my side, singing Christmas songs, It's Summertime, and I am in my singlet, shorts and thongs.

(CHORUS)

Oh, jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way Christmas in Australia on a scorching summers day, Oh, jingle bells, jingle bells, Christmas time is beaut, Oh what fun it is to ride in a rusty Holden ute.

Engines getting hot, we dodge the kangaroos, The swaggie climbs aboard, he is welcome too, All the family's there, sitting by the pool, Christmas day in the Aussie way, by the B.B.Q.

(CHORUS)

Come the afternoon, Grandpa has a doze, The kids and Uncle Bruce, are swimming in their clothes, The time comes round to go, we take a family snap, Then pack the car and all shoot through, before the washing up.

(CHORUS)

AWAY IN A MANGER

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head. The stars in the sky looked down where he lay, The little Lord Jesus asleep in the hay.

The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes. I love Thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky And stay by my cradle til morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay Close by me forever, and love me, I pray. Bless all the dear children in thy tender care, And take us to heaven, to live with Thee there.

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

We wish you a Merry Christmas, We wish you a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year! Good tidings we bring, to you and your kin; We wish you a Christmas and a Happy New Year! Oh, bring us a figgy pudding; Oh, bring us a figgy pudding; Oh, bring us a figgy pudding, and bring some out here. We wish you a Merry Christmas, We wish you a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year

DING DONG MERRILY ON HIGH

Ding dong! merrily on high In heav’n the bells are ringing: Ding dong! verily the sky Is riv’n with Angel singing. Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis! E’en so here below, below,

Let steeple bells be swungen, And “Io, io, io!”

By priest and people sungen. Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis! Pray you, dutifully prime

Your matin chime, ye ringers; May you beautifully rime

Your evertime song, ye singers. Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER

Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer had a very shiny nose.

And if you ever saw him, you would even say it glows.

All of the other reindeer used to laugh and call him names.

They never let poor Rudolph join in any reindeer games. Then one foggy Christmas Eve Santa came to say: “Rudolph with your nose so bright won’t you guide my sleigh tonight?”

Then all the reindeer loved him as they shouted out with glee, Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer, you’ll go down in history.

WHITE CHRISTMAS

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas Just like the ones I used to know Where the treetops glisten And children listen To hear sleigh bells in the snow

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas With every Christmas card I write May your days be merry and bright And may all your Christmases be white

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas Just like the ones I used to know Where the treetops glisten And children listen To hear sleigh bells in the snow

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas With every Christmas card I write May your days be merry and bright And may all your Christmases be white

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN

(CHORUS)

You better watch out You better not cry You better not pout I'm telling you why, Santa Claus is coming to town He's making a list He's checking it twice He's going to find out Who's naughty and nice, Santa Claus is coming to town

[Pre-Chorus]

He sees you when you're sleeping He knows when you're awake He knows when you've been bad or good So be good for goodness sake

[Chorus]

You better watch out You better not cry You better not pout I'm telling you why, Santa Claus is coming to town You better watch out You better not cry You better not pout I'm telling you why, Santa Claus is coming to town He's making a list He's checking it twice He's going to find out Who's naughty and nice, Santa Claus is coming to town

SILENT NIGHT

Silent night, holy night All is calm, all is bright

Round yon Virgin, Mother and Child Holy Infant so tender and mild

Sleep in heavenly peace Sleep in heavenly peace

Silent night, holy night Shepherds quake at the sight Glories stream from heaven afar Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia Christ the Savior is born Christ the Savior is born

Silent night, holy night Son of God, love's pure light Radiant beams from Thy holy face With the dawn of redeeming grace Jesus Lord, at Thy birth Jesus Lord, at Thy birth

JINGLE

BELLS

Dashing through the snow

In a one-horse open sleigh

Over the fields we go, Laughing all the way. Bells on bob-tail ring, Making spirits bright What fun it is to ride and sing

A sleighing song tonight.

Jingle bells, jingle bells, Jingle all the way, Oh what fun it is to ride, In a one-horse open sleigh, O Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way, Oh what fun it is to ride

In a one-horse open sleigh.

PACIFIC BITUMEN

Big Country Radio

Cancer assistance Christmas appeal

TWEED COMMUNITY Clubs have announced their support for the Can Assist Cancer Assistance Network Christmas Appeal and there’s still time to make donations.

With the combined donation of $3,500, the Tweed Community Clubs hope to encourage other Tweed businesses and individuals to donate to this vital service.

Can Assist rely heavily on donations to continue their work, according to Sandy Rogers, a representative from Can Assist, who highlighted the importance of community contributions.

“Helping us to raise funds is essential. No amount is too small,” she said.

“We can only help cancer patients if we have enough funds and there’s an ever growing number of people reaching out for help.”

The funds donated by Tweed Community Clubs will go directly towards services such as travel, accommodation and medical expenses for local cancer patients, ensuring they can access the care they need.

Sharon Styman, Chair of Tweed Community Clubs and Deputy Chair of Twin Towns Services Club, emphasised the clubs’ ongoing commitment to supporting local causes.

“Tweed Community Clubs are proud to support organisations like Can Assist, which provide critical services to those in need,” Sharon told The Weekly.

“By coming together, we hope to make a difference for cancer patients in our community.”

The Can Assist Christmas Appeal aims to raise additional funds to support more cancer patients over the holiday period.

Tweed Community Clubs and Can Assist encourage individuals and businesses to contribute to the appeal to ensure local patients and their families receive the help they need.

Tweed Community Clubs donate more than $2.5 million every year to local charities and community organisations throughout the Tweed Shire.

Members of the Tweed Community Clubs are Twin Towns Services Club, Cabarita Beach Bowls & Sports Club, Club Tweed, South Tweed Sports Club, Murwillumbah Services Club, Pottsville Sports, Kingscliff Beach Bowls Club and Seagulls Club Tweed Heads.

For more information on how to donate, please visit: givenow.com.au/canassisttweed or scan the QR code.

Appeal for a masterpiece

By Madeleine Murray

BEN QUILTY’S PORTRAIT, Margaret Olley

2011, is a work of pure genius. With just a few impassioned smears of thick unlikely colour on the 170x150cm canvas, Quilty has captured Olley’s warmth, wisdom and wariness. This giant face is almost four square metres of subtle feelings.

Quilty was only 28 when he painted the extraordinary portrait of Olley in 2011, the year of her death. Her watchful expression is like a premonition – she seems to be waiting and ready.

The bold work, which won the Archibald Portrait Prize that year, came up for sale last month, and the Tweed Regional Gallery and associated organisations have set up a campaign to raise the money to bring the painting to its spiritual home and Olley’s resting place at the gallery.

Gallery Director Ingrid Hedgcock said this was a golden opportunity: “Since launching the acquisition appeal on November 22, we have had hugely positive support from near and far. It certainly has proven the enduring affection for Margaret Olley, and the nation’s connection to this wonderful painting, and Ben Quilty.

“Ben captured Olley towards the end of her life and her extraordinary career. It will be a significant addition to the Margaret Olley Art Centre and a collection-defining piece for the gallery.

“The artwork has all the ingredients of an extraordinary acquisition – artistic merit, rarity, beloved subject and artist.”

The unpretentious artist first met Ben Quilty in 2002 when she was the guest judge for the Brett Whiteley Travelling Art Scholarship. Quilty’s entry, Elwood Park, was a modestly-sized landscape and attracted Olley’s attention for the quality of the paint and composition. Quilty won the scholarship, and the pair developed a deep friendship. Olley was an inspiration

and mentor for the young artist and played a significant role in the development of his career.

“Although she was very reticent to sit for it, she loved the painting, and my Archibald win was an exclamation mark to her extraordinarily well-lived life,” Ben Quilty said.

Olley’s generous bequest to the Tweed Regional Gallery made it possible to build the Margaret Olley wing and recreate several extraordinary rooms of her house, a major attraction for locals and tourists.

This iconic work belongs at the Tweed Regional Gallery. Please consider a donation.

Visit gallery.tweed.nsw.gov/acquisition-appeal or call 02 6670 2790 to donate to this campaign or find out more.

Ben Quilty and Margaret Olley in front of Ben Quilty's 2011 Archibald Prize-winning work. Image © Art Gallery of New South Wales

Community Service Award for Shepherd’s Purse

By Jonathon Howard

SHEPHERD’S PURSE Theatre Company

(SPTC) in Tyalgum has been awarded the prestigious NSW Government Community Service Award in recognition of their exceptional contribution to the Tweed Shire.

The NSW Government Community Service Award recognises individuals in NSW who have helped to improve the quality of life of members of their community.

The recipient must be held in high regard in the community with strong ethical and community values.

Only community work of a high calibre is considered for the award. SPTC has earned this honor for their sustained efforts to foster unity, resilience, and cultural pride through immersive Shakespearean productions that engage and uplift the community.

Tweed Mayor Chris Cherry praised their profound impact on the region.

“Shepherd’s Purse is an extraordinarily talented group who are inclusive and invite participation from a wide range of people across the shire,” she said.

“Not only do the productions unite the community, they also provide an incredible entertainment experience unmatched across the shire and draw in tourists and theatre lovers alike, bringing great economic benefit to the region.”

Since 2015, Shepherd’s Purse has captivated audiences with their innovative dinner theatre experiences, transforming local spaces like Flutterbies Cottage Cafe into enchanting open-air stages.

Their commitment to involving local residents in every aspect of theatre — from set design to music — has created a strong sense of community ownership and pride.

One of the company’s most notable achievements was securing the NSW premiere of Shakespeare in Love in 2023, a milestone

that brought national attention to their work. Their resilience and creativity, particularly in the aftermath of the devastating floods that isolated Tyalgum, have made them a beacon of hope and inspiration.

Reflecting on the broader significance of their work, Mayor Cherry added: “I strongly believe their productions provide a community service, not only for the joy, entertainment, and cultural knowledge they share, but for the networks and connections they bring within the community”.

“It is widely recognised that community connection builds resilience in times of disaster, and what Shepherd’s Purse Theatre Company brings to the Tweed is a service we all benefit from.”

The award was presented by NSW State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin on Saturday, December 7, at Flutterbies Cafe, who commended the company for their unwavering dedication to enriching the community through the arts.

In a landmark achievement, it is believed that Shepherd’s Purse Theatre Company is the first theatre company in New South Wales to be awarded the NSW Government Community Service Award.

This recognition underscores the vital role of the arts in fostering community resilience, cultural pride, and social cohesion, placing Shepherd’s Purse alongside other distinguished recipients whose contributions have significantly enhanced the quality of life in their communities.

BOTTOM:

INSET: Solar Chapel has a been a driving force at Shepherd's Purse since its formation

TOP: The award presentation with Member for Lismore (Murwillumbah) Janelle Saffin

Shakespeare in Love at Flutterbies in 2023 was a huge hit under Shepherd's Purse Theatre Co

Celebrate Christmas in your Church

Christmas is the story of Jesus

CHRISTMAS IS celebrated to remember the birth of Jesus Christ, who is the Son of God. The name ‘Christmas’ comes from the Mass of Christ (or Jesus).

A Mass service (which is sometimes called Communion or Eucharist) is where Christians remember that Jesus died for us and then came back to life.

The Tweed is fortunate to have a strong church community who encourage residents to join them throughout the Christmas period to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. New visitors are always welcome and you can find dates and service times throughout The Weekly special Celebrate Christmas in Your Church feature.

The Bible, Luke 1:26–38, tells the story of how the angel Gabriel told Mary that she would miraculously conceive and give birth to Jesus, the

Son of God.

The angel Gabriel visits Mary

The angel Gabriel was sent by God to Nazareth to speak with Mary, a virgin engaged to Joseph.

The angel greets Mary

The angel greeted Mary, saying, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!”.

The angel tells Mary she will give birth to Jesus

The angel told Mary, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus”.

The angel describes Jesus

The angel went on to describe Jesus, saying, “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign

over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end”.

Census and birth of Jesus

The Bible further tells, Luke 2:1-7, that in those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.

Everyone went to their own town to register, so, Joseph also travelled from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem, the town of David, because Joseph belonged to the house and line of David.

He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son.

She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there

was no guest room available for them.

Why December 25?

Based on this winter solstice link, the ‘History of Religions hypothesis’ or ‘Substitution theory’ proposes the Church chose December 25 as the

The Real Meaning of Christmas by Pastor Robert Spence, ConXions Church

Whole Community is Invited) 24th 6.30pm Christmas Eve Spectacular 29th December 9.30am Worship Service Phone Mobile : 0408358528

Christmas is one of the most important days for us all. This day commemorates and celebrates the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ. Christmas is more than just a holiday. It is the remembrance of the fact that God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. Jesus’ birthday - which we celebrate at Christmas - is about God’s love. It is about God’s love for you and me. It is God expressing His great love for mankind, through the giving of the greatest gift, the Lord Jesus Christ. He loves us not because of what we are, but He loves us because of what He knows we can become, if we’ll allow Him to get involved in our lives.

birthday of Jesus (dies Natalis Christi) to appropriate the Roman festival of the birthday of the Invincible Sun (dies Natalis Solis Invicti), held on the same date.

Celebrate Christmas in your Church

Come celebrate Christmas with us at Murwillumbah Church of Christ

William Street, Murwillumbah

Sunday 22nd December at 9:30am

MARY’S SONG OF PRAISE

Christmas Day Service at 8:30am THE UNEXPECTED APPEARANCE

Tweed Valley Uniting Church

May hope, peace, joy and love be yours this Christmas.

Christmas at Murwillumbah Baptist Church

Come join us as we celebrate the birth of our saviour, Jesus Christ. God’s greatest gi to all. Everyone welcome. Christmas Eve Carol Service – Tuesday 24 December at 6:30pm Christmas Day Service – Wednesday 25 December at 9am

is Christmas, join us at Murwillumbah Baptist Church, as we re ect on the profound simplicity of that holy night of Jesus’ birth. In the midst of ordinary surroundings, an extraordinary gi of hope was given—the Son. In these challenging times, let’s nd solace in the simple yet profound story of Jesus’ birth and be open and drawn to God’s unfailing love, mercy, hope and grace. He is our beacon of hope, guiding us through even our darkest moments. Join us in embracing the warmth of community and the true, giving spirit of hope and joy that Christmas brings.

Celebrate Christmas in your Church

All Saints Anglican Parish, Christmas Worship Times

4th Sunday in Advent — Sunday, 22 December 2024

9.00 am Christmas Service, Holy Trinity, Uki

Christmas Eve— Tuesday, 24 December 2024

5.30 pm Holy Communion, All Saints, Murwillumbah

6.00 pm Traditional Carol Service, St John’s, Tyalgum

Christmas Day—Wednesday, 25 December 2024

8:30 am Holy Communion, All Saints, Murwillumbah

All Welcome!

Byangum Road, Murwillumbah Ph: (02) 6672 6070

The Light of Christ is coming! We invite you to celebrate the Joy of Christmas with us. During this Christmas Season, may your hearts be filled with the love and peace that Christ brings to our lives. At Christmas time we are all called to contemplate the Child Jesus, who gives hope once again to every person on the face of the earth. By his grace, let us with our voices and our actions give witness to hope, peace, joy and love. On behalf of our Catholic parishes we wish you all a happy and holy Christmas as you spend time with your families and friends.

All Saints Anglican Parish

e good news of Christmas is worth celebrating for three reasons. It is personal: “I bring you”. It is positive: “good news of great joy.” And it is universal: “for all the people”. It doesn’t matter who you are, what you’ve done, where you’ve been, or where you’re headed – this news is for you. e angel brought us news we can use:

God loves you!

God is with you!

God is for you!

e entire reason for Christmas is the love of God. God loves you so much that he came to earth as a human so we could get to know him and learn to trust him and love him. Jesus has power and authority to change our lives for the better. Enjoy his love as we celebrate his birthday.

CHRISTMAS MASS TIMES FOR OUR LOCAL CATHOLIC PARISHES

St Anthony’s Parish, Sacred Heart Parish St Joseph’s Parish Kingscliff Murwillumbah Tweed Heads Fr Paul McDonald Fr Peter Wood Fr Michael Brady

Christmas Eve Vigil Masses – Tuesday 24 December

6 pm St Anthony’s, 6 pm Sacred Heart, 6 pm St Joseph’s, Kingscliff Murwillumbah Tweed Heads

6 pm Sts Mary & Ambrose, Midnight Sacred Heart, 8 pm St Joseph’s, Pottsville Murwillumbah Tweed Heads

Midnight St Joseph’s, Tweed Heads

Christmas Day – Wednesday 25 December

7:30 am Sts Mary & Ambrose, 9 am Sacred Heart, 8 am St Joseph’s, Pottsville Murwillumbah Tweed Heads

Bolt + Buckle’s quirky charm

By Madeleine Murray

BOLT + BUCKLE, the irresistible men’s shop in Murwillumbah, was an instant hit when it opened three years ago. Set in a beautiful Art Deco building on the corner of Proudfoots Lane, the shop is packed with quality men’s wear, and dotted with quirky items such as dominos, clock workings, a whip and much more.

The whole place is arranged with a very interesting and attractive aesthetic. It never looks cluttered or confusing.

Owners Sharon Matulick and Pat Fleming had a shop in Brisbane, but they wanted a tree change. “We thought that Murwillumbah was a beautiful spot, but most of all every time we visited the people were so beautiful. Everyone we came across was wonderful,” Sharon told The Weekly.

“Pat wanted to start his own business when we discovered some beautiful leather products in India. We first came back and sold them at the market then that morphed into looking for exquisite and unique rustic leather products.

“Our vision was to create a place where men really love to shop and anyone buying gifts for men can find lots of really unique things.

“We set about creating a rustic industrial retail

and

ceilings and moody lighting set the laidback tone, and a music mix that says we’re a little different.”

Three years later, things are going very well. Bolt + Buckle has fans throughout the Northern Rivers, Gold Coast and even Brisbane weekenders.

Melanie Bloor from Uki explained what the shop has meant to her son.

“My son transitioned into adulthood through Bolt + Buckle,” Mel told The Weekly.

“Sam went from wearing T-shirts, elasticised shorts, sand shoes and tracky dacks to manhood through his purchases there.

“He bought a beautiful watch and wallet, a lovely good shirt and pair of dress pants, and some nice linen shorts that will last him for ages because he has finally stopped growing.

“Now he can invest in his clothing, and he has been able to do that through that shop.” Bolt + Buckle, the men are so hard to buy for store, has established itself as a must-visit store in the Northern Rivers and the go-to store for men’s gifts, fashion and unique leather goods.  Bolt + Buckle is at 11 Commercial Road, Murwillumbah. For more info go to facebook.com/ boltandbuckle

space using metal, timber

recycled fittings. Black

The variety and quality draw you in. Photo: Sally Singh Right: Owners Patrick and Sharon

Beautiful new café in South Murbah

By Madeleine Murray

Invasion

The singer is passionate about the music he considers some of the best and most influential in contemporary

“I love nothing more than to keep the flame of the music of my youth alive. Performing these legendary songs live on stage is a very moving and enjoyable

ecdotes and shares evocative memories

Prepare for an unforgettable evening of music and memories as John Waters and his band led by Stewart D’Arrietta bring the sounds of the sixties roaring back to life. The show comes with a personal endorsement from The Tweed dio Luxembourg at the Regent Cinema

TICKETS $2 FOR 6 NUMBERS

etta perform Radio Luxembourg ary 10, at Twin Towns.For tickets

Bubbles (4)

That following (4)

28 Respiratory organs (5) 29 Clean vigorously (5) 31 Mechanical human (6)

Funnybone locations (6) 36 Canopy (6)

Banner (6) 38 Surpass (8) 41 Same (coll) (5)

Blush (5)

(4)

(4)

Scorch (4)

46-down is one (9)

(4)

Monolith (7)

Tissues

Live well at home.

Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT) is a leading not-for-profit aged care provider that has been caring about people for more than 50 years. We are local supporting you to live happily and independently in your own home.

Our experienced care managers guide you through the services available and create a flexible, individualised plan that helps you live life to the full.

If you’re aged 65 years and over, or Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander aged 55 years and over, why not enquire about how home support services could assist you.

Please note, the first step to accessing Government-funded Home Care services is to apply for an assessment. Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or apply online at www.myagedcare.gov.au. If you are eligible, you will then receive a referral code which will allow you to progress services with us.

Our home care services include:

• Meal Assistance

• Transport

• Social Support & Activities

• Wellbeing

• Allied Health Support

• Assistive Technology

• Aids & Equipment

• Home Maintenance & Modifications

• Respite for Carers

• Personal Care

• Nursing Care

TRADES AND SERVICES

FEATURED BUSINESS

FOR ALL your rubbish removal needs

there’s no job too big or small for Northern Rivers Rubbish Removal.

The business is headed up by passionate local operator Ben Anderson who has been covering the Tweed for last 12 months and has recently expanded the service.

“We have extended our run which picks it up Gold Coast to Grafton and we have been looking removing rubbish for NDIS participants and elderly all through the Tweed,” he said.

Mr Anderson’s team offer free no obligation quotes on all jobs with fast turnaround.

“We also have extensive experience in difficult situations such as deceased estates and NDIS participants with mental health issues and dementia in elderly,” he said.

“Efficient hands-on approach we do the work with fast turnaround.”

Ben and his team offer an experience that is “down to earth and reliable”.

RIVERS RUBBISH REMOVAL

“We let the customer talk and we get an understanding of what they want removed and want to achieve with no price gouging or mess left behind,” he said.

The feedback for Northern Rivers Rubbish Removal has been outstanding. “As the owner I love getting the text message when my guys have left a job from our customer, whether it be a big contract job or a little old lady, letting us know that they are thanking us once again and let us know that they appreciate the great service,” he said.

“Remember we offer free quotes on all jobs with no job too big or small.”

Ben said he plans to extend his fleet of vehicles and trailers taking on more workers and training them up to have good physical and mental fitness and communication skills with customers.

“And in turn give what we can back to the homeless or women in domestic violence or anybody doing it tough in

any way we can,” he said. Call Ben and his team at Northern River Rubbish Removal on: 0421 493 136. Northern Rivers

Community News Choir spread joy

MEMBERS OF the Hastings Community Choir recently brought joy to residents of the Bupa Pottsville with a special performance.

This concert followed a successful event the week prior, where the full choir performed at the TriCare Retirement Community in Hastings Point.

The concert raised an impressive $1,000 for Tweed Palliative Support and Wedgetail Retreat, a cause close to the hearts of the choir members.

Under the direction of choir leader Jean Berry (pictured far left), the choir has been actively supporting local communities,

bringing both music and charity together.

Jean told The Weekly the performances have been a highlight for residents at both retirement communities, “spreading warmth and goodwill”.

The choir’s next steps aim to continue supporting local initiatives, fostering a strong sense of community and generosity.

Car for Sale

2012 Proton (Mitsubishi) S16 Sedan, 153,000kms,1.6litre, 4 cylinder, manual, cold air, steer, air bag, 2 keys, radio/cd, Electric windows, central locking. One lady owner, log book history, all receipts, new clutch, timing belt done, new tyres, struts, brakes. Registered to May 2025. $3,750.00 Phone: 0438 759 833

Pullout kitchen, full a annexe. NSW rego till Feb 25. $8,990 Ph: 0411 209 154

Courses

First Aid Courses

SALE Trailer tank, 3000 litres, never had sprays in tank, 10 meter boom, Honda firefighting pump with 35 meter hose, not road registered, $12,500. M: 0416 194 498 Ph: (02) 6679 5064

Garage

Closing Down Sale

Mark your calendars!

Saturday 14/12 • 8am - 3pm Monday 16/12 • 9am - 5pm Tuesday 17/12 • 9am - 5pm

Wednesday 18/12 • 9am - 5pm

Thursday 19/12 • 9am - 5pm Friday 20/12 • 9am - 5pm

Terms and conditions

• Cash only! No eftpos available - come prepared to avoid disappointment

• Warehouses are located at 5/25 & 4/27 Machinery Drive, Tweed Heads

•

To Let

in Kingscliff. Would suit female pensioner. Full board and lodgings plus small wage, to start in January 2025. Call Gary on 0429 304 545

For Sale

chains, very good condition, immediate sale required, $40,000. M: 0416 194 498 Ph: (02) 6679 5064

Pietro Dusina

We are locally owned and operated 0416 389 587

29/12/1929 -9/8/2021

Late of Crabbes Creek and formally Ono Degno Italy.

Passed away peacefully at home 9th August 2021. Aged 91 years.

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

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

We offer holistic and unique funerals that empower you to have a deeply meaningful and inclusive experience Direction cremations $2560 including transfers and all legal paper work

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

JOHNSON, JOAN SHEILA

Passed away peacefully at home 8th December 2024

Aged 100 years.

Dearly loved mother to her sons Peter Frederick and Micheal Thomas (Both deceased) and daughter Sarah-Jane

Loved and loving grandmother of Taylor

Always loved and remembered

Privately Cremated

Wes and Ashley Heritage Tweed Heads Ph: (07) 5599 1500

Peter Dawes

Ray Lowe

02/02/1949 ~ 29/03/2020

On behalf of past & present members of the MSMC Social Golf Club our prayers & fond memories are shared with Ray’s family and friends.

On behalf of past & present members of the MSMC Social Golf Club our prayers & fond memories are shared with Peter’s family and friends.

A foundation member and Life Member of our great Social Golf Club.

A loveable larrikin, a great golfing partner and well respected member of our Social Golf Club.

Our mate ‘Ray’ will never be forgotten.

Our mate ‘Dawesy’ will never be forgotten.

(02) 6672 2144 Billinudgel (02) 6680 3084

Please refer to our website for funeral notices www.mcguinessfunerals.com.au

In Loving Memory Laverne Marshall

20/01/1944 – 03/12/2024

Late of Pottsville Beach and formerly of Coolangatta.

Dearly loved Wife of the late George Robert Marshall and loving Mother of Cameron and Kristine.

Much loved Nan of Caitlin and Olivia.

Family and Friends are invited to Laverne’s Funeral Service at the Tweed Valley Cemetery, 813 Eviron Road, Eviron TODAY Thursday 12th December 2024 at 11am (NSW time).

In loving memory Allan Charles Green

11.12.1929 – 7.12.2024

Aged 94

Late of Tweed Heads

Allan was dearly loved by his five children; Annette, Jon, Bill, Tony, Carolyn and devoted Poppy of their families. Much loved brother to Merle and his other siblings Elsie (dec), Ron (dec) and Roy (dec).

A service in celebration of Allan’s life will be held at Tweed Heads Crematorium Chapel on Monday 16th December at 11.30am NSW time.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend the ceremony. Allan will be forever in our hearts.

Tweed Heads Ph: (07) 5599 1500

In loving memory BERNARD SIMPSON

e family of the late Bernard Simpson would like to thank all who attended his funeral, and sent cards and messages of condolence following his passing on 1/11/24.

Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated.

Special thanks to the staff at Feros Village, Wommin Bay for the wonderful care of Bernard during his time there and the warm welcome extended to family.

EDWARDS Leslie 26/11/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

MARSHALL Laverne 03/12/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

WILLIAMS Carroll 04/12/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

WILLIAMS Ronald 04/12/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

TRENEAR William “Bill” 06/12/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

LEE Graham 08/12/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

PATTERSON Maxwell “Max” 08/12/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

John Frederick Nocak 03/12/2024

Paperbark Death Care 0466 526 156

Colin Charles Green 05/12/2024

Paperbark Death Care 0466 526 156

Anastasia Tate 08/12/2024

Tiare Funerals

Get Kraken champions

THE MOUNT St Patrick Primary School robotics team, known as ‘Get Kraken’, has recently returned from the National Championships at Macquarie University in Sydney with incredible achievements under their belt.

Competing against more than 40 teams, composed of students from 9 to 16 years of age from right across Australia, including Perth, Melbourne, and Tasmania, this talented Murwillumbah-based group of 10 students proudly represented their school.

This year’s First Lego League (FLL) theme, ‘Submerged’, challenged teams to address pressing ocean-related issues.

Get Kraken students tackled the global problem of plastic pollution with a creative and innovative solution: Plastic-to-Biofuel Conversion Ships.

These vessels, designed to transform ocean plastics into usable fuel, deeply impressed the judges and showcased the team’s dedication to environmental sustainability.

Their innovation earned them the prestigious Rising Star Award, given to teams demonstrating outstanding potential and creativity.

In addition to their project success, Get Kraken proved their technical skills by finishing in the top ten for the robot matches, a testament to their exceptional coding ability and strategic thinking.

The journey to Sydney followed their triumphant performance at the Benowa Gold Coast Regional event, where they were crowned Overall Champions and achieved the highest score in the robot matches.

Their hard work, teamwork, and ingenuity were evident as they progressed to the national stage.

Mount St Patrick Primary principal and staff of have expressed immense pride in the team’s achievements, as has the wider school community.

“To see our students not only solve real-world problems but also compete so successfully at a national level is truly inspiring,” said a spokes -

person for the school.

“Get Kraken exemplifies the values of perseverance, innovation, and collaboration, and their remarkable success is sure to inspire future FLL participants to dive deep into their own creativity and problem-solving potential.”

Congratulations to the team on their outstanding efforts and well-deserved recognition.

Martial arts bonanza at Nationals comp Fingal surfers awarded

By Jo Kennett

A TWEED martial arts team have just returned from the 2024 Australian National Championship in Sydney with a swag of medals including nine gold, six silver, and 12 bronze medals.

IMC Tweed Heads Martial Arts Sensei Sebastian Gatsby-Srodawa also achieved the title of Australian National Grand Champion 2024 in point sparring.

IMC Tweed Heads Martial Arts is the number one mixed martial arts centre in Australia, despite having only opened in January, with all students in the top three in the country. They chose to move from Sydney to Tweed Heads because it’s “paradise on earth” according to Sebastian’s mum Sandra and who are we to disagree.

It’s a family affair with dad Adam Srodawa, Mum Sandra manning the phones and admin, and sons Sensei Sebastaian Gatsby-Srodawa and his brother Sensei Cygan.

“We have three senseis,” Sandra said.

“My sons have been competing since they were five and they are both sensei and pretty well number one in Australia and the world.

“Their dream was to open their own martial arts centre and so my kids

and husbands train these children every day.

“We are really proud because most of the kids who have come to our school are either experiencing bullying or lacking confidence and direction and they have just become really dedicated and train two hours six days a week.”

The students started competing in Queensland contests, reaching top three positions with “amazing performances”, qualifying them for the national titles.

“The parents were really excited and surprised at their performance in Sydney,” Sandra said.

“There were tears and lots of screaming.

“It’s really boosted their confidence and we have the World Karate Cup at Carrara in October and they will be qualified for that, with all the different countries coming to compete in Australia. There will be 6,000 competitors.

“We should have double the number competing because some of them only started a few months ago and weren’t ready, whereas the students that went to the titles had 11 months of training.”

“It’s all about the children. If you find a passion or love for something they just excel.”

By Jo Kennett

FINGAL SURFER

Dane Henry received the Mick Fanning Rising Star Award at the 2024 Australian Surfing Awards held on the Gold Coast on Saturday, December 7.

Another Fingal surfer, Jay Phillips, was the subject of the film Jay Phillips Isn’t Dead by Wade Crighton and Joey Bailey, which took out Surfing Australia Surf Film of the Year presented by Channel Nine.

Dane was a finalist for Young Athlete of the Year in the NSW Sport Awards after winning the World Under 18s champion at the 2024 International Surfing Association World

Junior Championships El Salvador in May this year.

The aerial specialist captained the Irukandjis, Australia’s junior surfing team, to the gold medal at the championships, the first team gold for Australia in ten years.

Dane also won the SkullCandy Pro junior event, made the quarters in the Peel Pro Junior, the men’s QS Gold Coast Open and Burton Automotive Pro and won the Australian Open Men’s Championship title in August.

The night also celebrated Australia’s elite surfing achievements, with Olympians and World Tour surfers

Jack Robinson and Molly Picklum

named Male and Female Surfer of

the Year, while Sierra Kerr was honoured with the Stephanie Gilmore Rising Star Award.

Jocelyn Neumueller and Kai Colless were recognised as the Female and Male Para Surfers of the Year, respectively.

Surfing legend Layne Beachley was honoured with Surfing Australia Life Membership for her extraordinary contributions to the sport. A seven-time World Champion and the only surfer to win six consecutive titles, Beachley also championed pay equity for women, improved events, and greater opportunities for future generations.

Mount St Patrick Primary kids from Get Kraken

Back row: Grace Severs, Dhara Hurry, Abbey Raymond, Ethan Bleakley, Clem Jorss, Jarrah Jackson. Front row: Annabel Moran, Aris Mackney, Ashton Marks, Lucian de Yong

The IMC Tweed Heads Martial Arts team came home from the Aussie titles with a swag of medals

Dane Henry surfing to gold for Team Australia. Photo: Pablo Jimenez.

Fingal's Jay Phillips was the subject of the 2024 Australian Surf Film of the Year Award

Dane Henry won the Mick Fanning Rising Star award

Real Estate Estate

FROM COAST TO COUNTRY

By Jo Kennett

THE ‘GOLDEN arc’ from northern NSW through the Gold Coast, Brisbane, to the Sunshine Coast keeps attracting both interstate and international migrants and with housing supply falling short of demand and strong market confidence, prices continue to rise nationally.

That’s according to economist Nerida Conisbee and our local agents agree.

Schmith Estate Agents

Schmith’s Principal Justin Schmith says 2024 has been “a bit push and shove.

“We’re back to old traditional real estate where one needs to know what they’re doing, have the right approach or advice, and really know their target market,” he said.

“Days on market have noticeably increased compared to this time last year particularly for rural markets.

“Strangely, the Christmas slowdown in open house numbers came unusually early this year, normally it starts mid-December but it nearly started at the end of November.

“However, this period of course I am on deck all summer as enquiry never sleeps.”

Justin says owners who want to sell

2024 market wrap

will meet the market feedback and sell.

“Others may miss the boat, so if a seller requires a price adjustment they should act sooner rather than later as this could cost the vendor even more if prolonged,” Justin said, adding that the higher price point stock is mainly going to interstate buyers at about 50/50.

“It was more 70/30 in favour of interstate buyers before and lower price stock is mainly local buyers.

“Prospective buyers are mainly owner occupiers, as recent legislation for tenancy and interest rates have hit investors unfavourably.”

Justin and his agents are looking forward to having a couple of days off over Christmas.

Northern Rivers Property Group

Paul and Adrianna from NRPG say the market has been fairly steady but if clients are thinking of selling next year, preparation is imperative and they are currently doing selling plans for 2025.

“There’s a lot more stock on the market now which means more options for buyers,” they said.

“Coming into summer with all the rain the properties are looking lush; nice and green and ready for those picture perfect photography shoots.

Open Homes

All times are DST unless specified. Saturday, December 14

JET Real Estate

• 2 James Street, Murwillumbah 9:30-10:00am

• 184 Stokers Road, Stokers Siding 9:30-10:00am

• 1 William Street, Murwillumbah 10:30am-11:00am

• 303 Crabbes Creek Road, Crabbes Creek 11-11:30am

DJ Stringer Property Services

• 40 Korina Ave, Coolangatta 8:30 – 9:00am (AUCTION ON SITE @ 9:00am) QLD Time

• 75 Gilward Dr, Mudgeeraba 9:00 – 9:30am QLD Time

• 12/28 Coolangatta Rd, Kirra 10:00 – 10:30am QLD Time

• 1066/20-22 Stuart St, Tweed Heads 11:30 – 12.00pm NSW Time

“Traditionally it does slow at Christmas, from December 20 to January 20 it’s a lot quieter, but the key is to be ready already for next year, to beat the glut that will come on at the end of January.”

They say a lot of vendors are holding firm on price “but what buyers need to do is make offers where they are comfortable.“

“If they never try they will never know,” Paul and Adrianna said.

“We are still getting a great mix of interstate mostly from Melbourne/ Sydney and the Gold Coast/Byron areas.

“The majority are owner occupiers. Murwillumbah CBD is moving really well with shorter days on market and small rural acreage is always popular.

“Our bespoke marketing is very much social media heavy and we specifically target these areas.”

McGrath Estate Agents Coolangatta/Tweed Heads

McGraths Sales Agent Rachael Ford says the market has been “exceptionally strong” throughout 2024.

“On average prices increased by 10 to 15 per cent in the Tweed region,” Rachael said.

“This was driven by low supply, stable interest rates and a continued

migration from northern Gold Coast suburbs and Sydney and Melbourne buyers who see value in the area.

“The market always slows a little at this time of the year, as buyers’ focus moves toward the end of the school year and Christmas festivities.

“Renovated and near new properties under $1.2m are keenly sought and are often attracting multiple offers and selling for higher than asking price, however buyers are very educated and overpriced properties are not selling unless the owners are prepared to adjust their price expectations.

“We are seeing a lot of activity from buyers currently living in Burleigh through to Palm Beach — they see the Tweed region offering great value.

“There is also still strong activity from buyers relocating from Melbourne and Sydney.”

Rachael says investors, owner occupiers and first home buyers are all active.

“Investors and first home buyers are often competing for entry level properties under $1m and we are seeing solid demand from families looking to upgrade to a larger property in the $1.1m to $1.5m range.”

• 2124/14-22 Stuart St, Tweed Heads 12:00 – 12.30pm NSW Time

• 4/14 Lorikeet Dr, Tweed Heads South 12:00 – 12:30pm NSW Time

• 20 Eliza Fraser Ct, Terranora 1:00 – 1:30pm NSW Time

• 2/98 McLean St, Coolangatta 1:00 – 1:30pm QLD Time

• 5 Pimpala Crt, Tugun 2:00 – 2:30pm QLD Time

Tate Brownlee Real Estate

• 3 Parkes Lane, Terranora, 9-9.30am

• 23/14 Lorikeet Drive, Tweed Heads South, 10 – 10.30am

• 37 Lochlomond Drive, Banora Point, 11 – 11.30am

• 10 Seafarer Place, Banora Point, 12-12.30pm

• 57 Henry Lawson Drive, Terranora, 12– 12.30pm

• 11 Roundelay Drive, Varsity Lakes, 2, – 2.30pm

Schmith Estate Agents

• 1 Norlyn Avenue, Ballina, 9-9.30am

DJ Stringer Property Services

Principal David Stringer says the market this year has been very strong “with buyers definitely overshadowing supply which has pushed prices up.”

“The lead-up to Christmas is historically very busy with buyers wanting to find their new homes and sellers wishing to expose their property to a wider buyer audience,” David said.

“Prices have risen sharply during 2024 however seem to be leveling out.

“We are fortunate that the southern Gold Coast and northern NSW regions attract many buyers from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and of course locals shifting around.

“The lower end of the market is definitely attracting first home buyers and yes, there is also a strong surge of investors looking to start or add to their investment portfolios.”

Thanks so much to all our wonderful agents for all your help with this column. Wishing you all a lovely Christmas and a happy New Year.

• 131 Phoenix Drive, Tintenbar, 10-10.30am

• 6 Grey Gum Street, Pottsville, 10-10.30 NSW time

• 1201/120 Marine Parade, Coolangatta, 11-11.30am QLD Time

• 321-323/99 Griffith Street, Coolangatta, 12-12.30 QLD Time Kerrie Duval

• 10-1-19 Blue Jay Cct, Kingscliff, 11- 12pm McGrath

• 2 Karingal Avenue, Bilambil Heights, 9 – 9.30am

• 6 Sandpiper Avenue, Tweed Heads, 9.30 – 10am

• 9 Bawden Street, Tumbulgum, 10 – 10.30

• 32 Surf Street, Kingscliff, 10 – 10.30am

• 44 Naponyah Road, Terranora, 10.30 – 11am

• 8 Norths Lane, Nunderi, 11 – 11.30am

• 3 Longboard Circuit, Kingscliff, 11– 11.30

• 65 Tamarind Avenue, Bogangar , 12 – 12.30pm

• 10/41 Tweed Coast Road, Bogangar, 12 – 12.30pm

• 13/25 Saltwater Crescent, Kingscliff, 1 – 1.30pm

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM JET REAL ESTATE

Thank you to our customers, clients, and suppliers for a wonderful 2024. Your support has meant the world to us!

Wishing you and our wonderful community a happy, safe, and joyous holiday season. We look forward to helping you make your real estate dreams a reality in 2025!

Please note, our office will be closed from 21st December 2024 to 6th January 2025.

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6 GREY GUM STREET, POTTSVILLE

all feature built-in robes, a central family bathroom offering a separate bath, shower and WC, and a family laundry providing direct outdoor access for superior functionality. Further highlights include reverse cycle air conditioning, ceiling fans, double garage with internal access and side gate access to the rear, creating additional off-street parking/storage for your boat, trailer or caravan. Set on a comfortable 650m2 (approx) parcel within the idyllic, family-friendly Koala Beach Estate, offering exceptional lifestyle convenience within a verdant bushland setting. Just a 5-minute drive from Pottsville's white sandy beaches, Mooball Creek, and the vibrant main street esplanade for local shopping, cafes and eateries, and conveniently located within a 25-minute drive from Gold Coast International Airport and a 30-minute drive from Byron Bay. This is the lifestyle location with it all!

Tweed Coast Road, Bogangar Near New Apartment

If you have a vacant property, one that is under performing or you simply require a greater return and a more personalised service, then experience the difference with DJ Stringer Property Management.

To find out why more landlords prefer to place their trust in our services and to arrange a complimentary market appraisal, please contact our investment advisor

Terri Whitney 0491 644 897 terri@djstringer.com.au in the strictest confidence today.

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