Tweed Valley Weekly, August 1, 2024 by Tweed Valley Weekly

Celebrating Tweed Education Week!

By Jonathon Howard

most outstanding local educators as part of our special ‘Education Week’ feature.

From Kunghur to Fingal Head and everywhere in between, the Tweed is home to thriving school communities with passionate staff and principals who care about their

Printmakers leaving Stokers

By Anne Schardin

AFTER A great seven years in the Stokers Siding Pottery Building, it’s time for Community Printmakers Murwillumbah

(CPM) to find a new home due to the sale of the beautiful heritage building.

We are having a sale with 10 per cent off the price of art prints and linen items to help clear out for our move. All are original works made by our members. We’ll keep you posted about our Community Printmakers future, but for now we want to shout out a big thank you to all our supporters and members.

CPM has prospered in the beautiful old pottery building, particularly since the Rail Trail opened. Inspired by the print studio and the prints on display, there are now many printmakers waiting to join us as soon as we have secured new premises.

We have gained a good following of art lovers too, with our prints often being purchased by domestic and international travellers who are astonished at the quality and variety of prints on offer, etchings, lino and wood prints, and so much more.

Established in 1991, CPM is a not-forprofit self-funded community organisation. It came into being with some assistance from Tweed Shire Council and the Tweed River Art Gallery.

It provides a studio space, etching presses, relief presses and printing equipment

for emerging and established printmakers.

CPM has a very proud history of inclusive and creative community participation, and welcomes printmakers from far and near.

A huge thank you to Julie Rainow for supporting CPM and keeping the Stokers Siding Pottery building as an arts hub all these years, and for truly supporting artists and the community. However, now it’s time for Julie to retire and we all wish her well.

While CPM members are extremely sad and disappointed to leave the cur-

rent building, we are absolutely keen and determined to find another suitable space. We’ve been around for 33 years and intend to keep searching.

The sale is from 10am-3pm on Saturday and Sunday August 3–4. CPM is at 224 Stokers Road, Stokers Siding.

For more information go to @cpmprintmakers, communityprintmakersmurwillumbah on Facebook, or cpmprintmakers. com.au.

Contact treasurer Anne Schardin on 0498 399 640 for more information.

Talks over daylight saving

By Jo Kennett

THE NSW Farmers Association has called for daylight saving to be shortened from six months to four at their annual conference, with plenty of Tweed locals agreeing and some wanting it gone completely.

Members debated starting it a month later and finishing a month earlier but that motion was ultimately changed to “any shortening of daylight saving” and was passed by members.

Tweed MP and National Party member Geoff Provest has been pushing for change for years, saying in 2021 he, “supports those people of regional and rural New South Wales affected by the lengthy daylight saving period in their call to end it a month earlier.”

Daylight saving runs for six months from October 6, 2024 to April 6, 2025, but originally ran through the summer months during World War 1 and 2, beginning January 1.

In 1971 it was introduced from the end of October to the end of February, which

extended out to five months in the 90s, but in 2008 it was changed to six months.

NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said the practice “is unfair to those from regional communities.”

“What was a scheme that started off to cover the summer months has now grown to half a year,” Mr Martin told the media.

“Just when, for example, our little children on rural bus routes are getting to have the opportunity to wake up in daylight and go safely…to get on the bus, then they’re plunged back into darkness.”

Cudgen farmer Jan Julius would like to see daylight saving shortened.

“I always think that it would be a killer in the mornings out west because they might have to drive for an hour to get to school,” she said.

“The end is a killer for us; it finishes about a month too late. It’s getting cool and we are almost starting in the dark.

“We get up around 4am to start packing taro and then our workers start at 6am or 6.30am in winter.

“It’s really hard finding passion fruit in

the dark so no, it really doesn’t suit us.”

Hastings Point father Paul Young isn’t a fan

“Kids that go to school all of a sudden have to get up and be ready an hour early and it takes ages for them to adapt,” he said.

“If they had to get up at 7am to get ready it’s already 8am once it starts and that’s hard, especially if you have young kids.”

Paul doesn’t think we need daylight saving at all.

“You have more daylight hours in summer,” he said.

“You have plenty of time in the morning to get up and in the afternoon to do other things.

“It’s for no reason at all. It just affects their life too much.”

Premier Chris Minns has ruled out any changes saying “a major change would disrupt big parts of the NSW economy.

YOUR THOUGHTS: The Weekly would like your thoughts on daylight saving? Send your thoughts and letters via email please via: editor@theweekly.net.au

Peter Schardin working on a woodcut in the last days at Stokers Siding

Weeds are taking over

The property I had to sell which I spent 40 years improving from a banana farm will now be turned back to nature.

Well nature will not provide rainforest or any positive outcome — devil’s fig, Parramatta grass, blue top, miconia, Jacob’s tears, camphor laurel, lantana, just to name a few.

Like the hundreds of acres around me, we have a ‘weed valley’ out of control. There is no value for any agriculture except for a few fertile spots. These areas are now controlled by city bred, naive seekers of a tree change.

Break up these too large holdings to allow some hope of resurrection.

I am not even going to bring up the total loss of wildlife here due to the insistence of people to have killer pets.

Greg Church, Nobbys Creek Dangerous energy

Labor Councillor Reece Byrnes says: nuclear power is so dangerous it would “put our community and our way of life at risk” (TVW, July 25).

Per petawatt of power produced, rooftop solar is four thousand times more dangerous, due to fatal falls during installation and maintenance.

Wind turbines are also more dangerous and detrimental to the environment.

No one wants to live near one, but million-dollar homes surround a nuclear reactor at Lucas Heights in Sydney.

Labor opposes nuclear power on land but is happy to put our mariners in nuclear powered submarines. Politicians pushing EVs peddle fear to oppose the safest and surest power for overnight recharging.

D Weston Allen, Cudgen Tree loss outrage

I am outraged by those councillors who voted to remove 44 trees at 7 Wommin Bay Road in Kingscliff to accommodate a playing field for U/12 kids to play football.

There are so many alternatives. This

is a sham, and it stinks.

Cr Byrnes said: “no one likes to see trees removed and in this case it is a good outcome for the community”.

How is this a good outcome for the community when it serves a select group?

How is that a good outcome for the majority?

We have lived here 27 years, so those trees are well in advance of that number of years.

Why can’t these kids play their footy at Casuarina or simply wait two years for Kings Forest to come online.

Two years is a small sacrifice when we’re taking trees that are probably well in advance of 50 years. There is no logic in this decision.

Most residents of Kingscliff see these trees almost every day in their travels.

I’ll bet most of those people unconsciously admire these trees without even realising, but they will when they are gone, then it’s too late.

Michael Doolan, Kingscliff Tweed entry disgrace

In support of councillors James Owen and Rhiannon Brinsmead, I endorse their article regarding the poor state of this entry to Tweed (TVW, July 25).

Overgrown weeds are not a pleasant look, and to my knowledge that area has been neglected for some time now.

J Ross, Tweed Heads Clean up Tweed now

While authorities let graffiti go unchallenged and obviously are to blame for lack of clean-up, let’s also acknowledge that the utility companies also share in the neglect.

The light green NBN units, electricity transformer boxes, as well as unkept public phone boxes, all provide a canvass for nuisance vandalism from ugly tagging.

The council distances themselves from these hideous blights on the landscape, in my view, while calls and emails to corporate utility companies

are ignored.

Please can someone take responsibility and clean up Tweed.

Stevie Barr, Tweed Heads Property security first Lake Kimberley is an integral part of the stormwater drainage system. The drains at the M1 end at the wooden bridge are overgrown. This and the above-ground pipe construction is an impediment to the water flow as Lake Kimberley fills to surrounding properties’ boundary fences and flows into Kimberley Circuit via path access in flood conditions.

I hope the security of these properties is taken into account when council decisions are made protecting swans.

Free-flowing stormwater should be the only consideration.

Derek Goodchild, Tweed Heads

Shock at Hastings Point

I was shocked to see an ugly fence installed around the foreshore of the Hastings Point Cudgera Creek estuary with signs declaring ‘This area has been fenced to protect cultural material please keep out, Tweed Council’. Another sign says ‘Within this creek system are the remains of Aboriginal fish traps.’

As a locally born Indigenous Australian, I take offence to the council desecrating this sacred natural landscape enjoyed by families for eons with this ugly and hostile infrastructure. We don’t need a plan, just a couple of change rooms and better toilets. Not much to ask.

Lee Hunter, Pottsville

Thank you to hospital staff

In view of the positive and negative comments about the Tweed Valley Hospital, I just wanted to share our very positive experience recently (July 27).

What an amazing group of people in the ED especially, and later in Ward 4, who were so very caring, understanding and helpful to my elderly mum, aged 102, when she was admit-

ted with my sister and I there with her over many hours. Mum is doing fine.

How blessed are we to have this wonderful medical facility in our community. Thank you to all.

And to those of us who have seen the negative comments, don’t be put off by them.

You can have confidence and be proud of our local medical teams and hospital.

J Schiller, Murwillumbah Homelessness in the spotlight

This week (August 5–11) is National Homelessness Week. A week where the homelessness crisis that affects our country gets put into the spotlight, and where we get to advocate for those who are the most vulnerable in our community.

As the largest provider of homelessness services in Australia, The Salvation Army wants others to be aware of the key issues facing those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

We are seeing across the country that social housing waiting lists are growing, the demand for homeless services is skyrocketing and rental prices are increasing by 10 per cent every year.

There are also increasing levels of mortgage stress and ‘tent cities’ popping up around the country while there is very cold winter weather.

The Salvation Army is trying to meet the needs of thousands of people experiencing homelessness each month, made more difficult due to a winter of unaffordable housing and a cost-of-living crisis.

We can’t do this alone. Our hope during Homelessness Week this year is to inform and educate the public about the issues surrounding homelessness and to advocate for the most vulnerable in our community as we lobby for more accommodation and support services.

As a major provider of accommodation and financial assistance in

Australia, we put clients at the centre of our work. The Salvation Army’s desire is to treat everyone who reaches out to our services with dignity, compassion, and respect.

We are passionate about seeing transformation in people’s lives. It is our privilege to meet people where they are at, whether that is rough sleeping, couch surfing, emergency accommodation or in other circumstances, and we will continue to do all we can to support people in their journey.

For more information about The Salvation Army’s work in homelessness, or if you or someone you know needs help, visit: salvationarmy.org. au/need-help/homelessness-support-services/homelessness-week/ Dr Jed Donoghue, National Homelessness GM for The Salvation Army Women’s workshop a success

The recent women’s workshop at Pottsville’s SES was an amazing day, with women teaching women ‘Emergency Preparedness in Community’ (EPiC).

Very enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers from many Tweed and Byron SES units helped the participants learn about information apps and warnings, emergency kits and plans, ladder safety and cleaning gutters, sandbagging and tarping, plus much more.

Because this was so valuable, I feel that a similar program should be taken into all schools.

Thanks to SES for all the information, tricks and tips.

Hopefully there will be more workshops in the future.

All women should participate.

D Mills, Pottsville

Sod turned on new pound

By Jonathon Howard

THE SOD was officially turned on the Tweed’s new Animal Pound and Rehoming Facility at South Murwillumbah on Tuesday, July 30, marking the official start of work on the multi-million project.

Once completed, the new facility will house up to 40 dogs and 40 cats in need of new homes.

The facility is expected to be completed by late 2025, weather permitting.

Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot — who committed $1 million towards the project at the last election — as well as representatives from Friends of the Pound and Tweed Shire Council gathered to mark the start of construction of the $9.1-million facility.

Also in attendance were representatives from Alder, who in June were awarded the $6.8 million design and construction contract for the new facility following a rigorous tendering process.

The animal rehoming building and car park will be built on Tweed Shire Council-owned land at 92–102 Lundberg Drive, South Murwillumbah, and construction is expected to commence later this year.

Designed in accordance with the latest in animal welfare and rehoming codes and guidelines, the new facility will include dog kennels, catteries and facilities for stockyard animals, as well as a new administrative hub for a private rehoming service, currently provided by not-for-profit partner Friends of the Pound.

There will be additional exercise yards for volunteer staff to exercise the animals on site, an important element of the design. The centre will also provide a new home for council’s rangers unit, with space for

Currently, impounded animals are being cared for by a private operator with the support of rehoming services by Friends of the Pound.

Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot said she’s proud to be delivering on her election commitment of $1 million to complete the new animal pound and rehoming centre .

“The $1 million in funding from the Albanese Labor Government comes on top of a further $1.76 million in federal funding for this vital project,” Ms Elliot said.

“The design and build of this new facility is in line with the latest in animal welfare guidelines and features new dog kennels, catteries and facilities for stockyard animals, which will replace council’s former pound at Stotts Creek.

“I’d like to acknowledge the dedication and the long-standing involvement of

animal rescue charity in this project.”

NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said she’s watched this project closely.

“Because it is such a worthwhile project and a great example of local, New South Wales and Australian governments working together for what will be a much-improved community facility,” she said.

“I know it is a project dear to my colleague Richmond MP Justine Elliot’s heart, as well as all of Tweed Shire Council, and will be a major boost for the dedicated Friends of the Pound members and everyone who loves and cares for our companion animals.”

Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis said the community “can’t wait” for the completion of this fantastic new facility.

“Which will enhance the welfare of animals in the Tweed, a project council has been planning for some time,” she said.

(Back L-R) President Friends of the Pound Sonia Trichter, Alder CEO Dean Cheffers, (Front L-R) Tweed Shire Council Manager Parks and Active Communities Murray Smith Justine Elliot MP, Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis.

Condong Creek drainage work

By Jo Kennett

TWEED SHIRE councillors have unanimously passed a motion to complete drainage works at Condong Creek in South Murwillumbah as a priority, but funding, approvals and land tenure are needed first.

Mayor Chris Cherry said that Condong Creek is, “an incredibly important issue for the businesses in and around Industry Central as it is the main floodway drain for that area.”

“Over the years it has been interfered with and has become very difficult to maintain,” Cr Cherry said.

“Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis and I met with the business owners around the creek and representatives from the drainage union, and they showed the works that council had resolved to do in the 2018 management plan and the subsequent Murwillumbah basin study.

“This resolution is designed to show those businesses that we intend to prioritise these works and try to get an outcome as soon as possible for them.

“We have been working with landowners to sort out access and talking to the Reconstruction Authority about funding.

“To date, council does not have Crown Lands permission for the works so we will work with Janelle Saffin to get that as soon as possible.

“What people want to see is action on the ground and that is what this notice of motion is trying to achieve.”

Foechong Pty Ltd is the majority rural landholder, with 13 cane farms in the valley, including land to the west and east of Enterprise Park, and farmland down to the sugar mill. Manager Dave Bartlett welcomed the move.

“It’s going to be tabled every month at council meetings, asking how much progress has been made,” he said.

“It’s the council putting the pressure on staff to make it happen.

“It’s not just the cane farms; there are residential properties and industrial land and businesses like Williams and Shoebridges.

“They have millions of dollars’ worth of sheds there and so they can’t afford to take up council’s relocation, so they have to stay on the floodplain and are all at risk because the drainage system doesn’t work.

“It’s not just for the farm, it’s for everyone. There can’t be any more development up there unless it’s done.”

Mr Bartlett said the system was completed for flood mitigation in the 60s but became blocked around 2009.

“A lot of the issue is that some is owned by Crown Lands, some is owned by others like Boral, so the Black’s Drain Swamp Drainage Union couldn’t maintain it,” he said.

“There has been more hardstand development like roofs and concrete on the hill, such as at Enterprise Park, which has put more stormwater straight into the system.”

“Every time we get heavy rain our farm directly below Enterprise Park floods and it takes days to get away.

When council submitted a development application for their new works depot at South Murwillumbah Mr Bartlett made an objection stating they couldn’t handle any more run-off, although the South Murwillumbah Basin Hydraulic Assessment found the depot development “does not significantly contribute to making it worse.”

“The third party that reviewed it said the council had to put over $2 million worth of underground retention tanks to hold the stormwater back, and six months ago the council came to us and said how about we do the upgrades to the creek,” Mr Bartlett said.

“We said, ‘Yes, we’ve been banging on about that for a long time’.”

He said rainwater sitting on a cane crop can kill it after only three days.

Council’s General Manager Troy Green said he had made an application to the NSW Department of Primary Industries for funding on July 1 and had met with state member Janelle Saffin to advocate for that.

Council’s Director Engineering David Oxenham said there were a lot of approvals needed and that council “can’t do anything until we had some tenure over that land.”

Calls for the first 30km speed limit

By Jonathon Howard

FINGAL HEAD residents attempting to reduce the village’s speed limit to 30km per hour have had a small victory but are unlikely to achieve their goal.

Tweed Shire Council’s Manager Roads and Stormwater Danny Rose outlined in a statement to The Weekly that Transport for NSW controls all speed limits in NSW.

“Transport for NSW has authorised council to reduce the current 60km/h speed limit on Fingal Road to 50km/h,” he said, despite residents calling for all of Fingal Head to be reduced to 30km/h.

Mr Rose said residents are advised that installing their own signage may be a hazard to drivers and other road users after residents started posting road signs reading “30km per hour” in a bid to protect local wildlife.

“And may also result in costs to council and the community to repair,” he said.

“All drivers are encouraged to be aware of wildlife on the road and to drive to the conditions.”

Mr Rose said there are particular criteria for a road to be changed to 30km/hr

“The 30km/h speed zone is governed by the newly updated NSW Speed Zoning Standard, introduced in July 2023,” he said.

“Under these standards, a 30km/h speed zone is recommended where there is a high place function with large numbers of pedestrians and low traffic movement function.”

The good news is that Fingal residents can apply to change the speed limit via Transport for NSW.

“Should a reduction in the speed limit be requested, this should be done directly to Transport for NSW,”

Mr Rose said.

Residents can submit a request to review speed limits via: www.saferroadsnsw.com. au/haveyoursay.aspx

YOUR THOUGHTS: Would you like to see all of Fingal Head’s speed limits changed to 30km/h? Send your thoughts and letters via email: editor@theweekly. net.au

Condong Creek runs through Foechong's cane farms

Northern Rivers Rail Trail: A global attraction and local economic boost

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has earned Tripadvisor’s coveted Travelers’ Choice Award, ranking it in the top 10% of attractions worldwide. This award celebrates attractions that have consistently received great traveller reviews on the global travel review website over the past 12 months. The recognition highlights how the Rail Trail has become a major visitor attraction for the Northern Rivers, and with the Richmond Valley section now open, it is likely to bring even more visitation and economic benefit to the region.

The Rail Trail, a shared recreation and nature trail, is the newest ‘must do’ experience in the region. It is free and accessible for people of all ages and abilities. The first 24 km section, stretching from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek, opened in the Tweed on 1 March 2023. Since then, the Tweed section has welcomed more than 146,000 users, including locals, domestic, and international visitors.

In its first year, the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail has exceeded expectations, contributing over $3.7 million to the local economy.

An independent Economic Impact Assessment Report by Muller Enterprise, commissioned by Tweed Shire Council and the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation, highlights the significant benefits the Rail Trail has brought to the Tweed.

The second section from Casino to Bentley in the Richmond Valley, spanning 13.4 km, opened in March 2024. Construction of the 16.3 km section from Lismore to Bentley is progressing and is expected to open later this year. Eventually, the Rail Trail will connect with Byron and Lismore, creating a 132 km long trail.

The establishment of the Rail Trail is part of Tweed Shire Council’s commitment to providing our community with opportunities to be active and healthy, while also making the Tweed a great place to live and visit.

For further information you can visit northernriversrailtrail.com.au

To read the report go to tweed.nsw.gov.au/northern-rivers-rail-trail

Solar boost for Kingscliff wastewater treatment plant

The installation of 160 high-efficiency solar panels at the Kingscliff Wastewater Treatment Plant is set to further cut Council’s greenhouse gas emissions by 85,500 kilograms and its energy bill by almost $30,000 a year.

This follows last year’s opening of a 1,208-panel solar array at the Banora Point Wastewater Treatment Plant. It was the biggest on the NSW north coast before the Tweed Valley Hospital opened.

Council now has 1,440 kilowatts of solar panels at 17 facilities, with plans to install another 290 kilowatts at water and wastewater treatment plants in the next 2 years.

The Kingscliff plant went solar in 2019 with a 99-kilowatt array.

Water and Wastewater Business and Assets Manager Michael Wraight said the plant’s additional 80-kilowatt system would provide an extra 300-kilowatt hours a day of renewable energy.

“It takes a great amount of energy to transfer and treat wastewater, with our treatment plants among Council’s biggest energy consumers,” Mr Wraight said. “The new solar panels are helping power the operations of our plants while reducing greenhouse

gas emissions from the use of grid electricity.”

The installation of solar panels is part of Council’s Renewable Energy Action Plan, which has achieved a 25% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from its electricity use.

The plan can be accessed at: tweed.nsw.gov.au/sustainable-operations

The Kingscliff Wastewater Treatment Plant processes the sewage of about 20,000 people from Kingscliff, Fingal, Chinderah, Cudgen, South Kingscliff (Salt) and Casuarina.

In brief ...

Local Government Week: National Tree Day success & upcoming events

Thank you to everyone who joined us in Banora Point for National Tree Day as part of this week’s Local Government Week celebrations. Over 50 people attended and 850 trees were planted!

There’s still time to join free activities for Local Government Week. For details about upcoming events, including our Tweed Lab or Clarrie Hall Dam tours this Friday 2 August, visit: tweed.nsw.gov.au/local-government-week

Delayed works at Ducat St, Tweed Heads

Residents, businesses and motorists are advised the planned commencement of resealing works on Ducat Street, Tweed Heads has been delayed due to the contractor being delayed on other works beyond the control of Council.

The contractor Colas Queensland is planning the works to commence on Sunday 11 August and will take up to 2 weeks, weather permitting.

The work involves upgrading the road surface from the intersection of Ducat Street and Jalibah Avenue to the intersection with Ourimbah Road.

Work will be carried out between 6 pm and 4 am when traffic volumes are at their lowest.

Interested in running in the NSW Local Government Elections?

The NSW Local Government Elections will be held on Saturday 14 September and people from all walks of life are encouraged to stand for their community to increase diversity in local government.

Individuals and groups eager to run for the upcoming election must both register as a candidate or group and also nominate to have their name or group included on the ballot paper.

Registration for candidates is currently open and candidate nominations open Monday 5 August. Both candidate registrations and nominations will close strictly at 12 noon on Wednesday 14 August.

For more information, including key dates and how to register as a candidate, visit the NSW Electoral Commission at elections.nsw.gov.au or phone 1300 135 736.

EOIs for Advisory Committees

Residents can help shape the Tweed community by joining one of Council’s Advisory Committees for the upcoming term.

Expressions of Interest (EOI) are open for four committees, offering residents the chance to provide valuable advice to Council.

Committees open for expressions of interest include:

• Equal Access Advisory Committee

• Floodplain Management Advisory Committee

• Tweed Coast Koala Advisory Committee

• Tweed Coast and Waterways Advisory Committee. EOIs close on Monday, 12 August 2024.

For more info and to register, visit: yoursaytweed.com.au/advisory-committee-eoi-2024

2024/25 bin collection calendar out now! Don't know when to put the bins out?

Download our 2024–25 bin collection calendar!

This handy calendar tells you which colour bins are being collected and when. Simply pop in your address and you'll find out which bins go out next.

Download at tweed.nsw.gov.au/bin-collection-days Be the #Binfluencer in your street!

Tweed Shire Council wishes to acknowledge the Ngandowal and Minyungbal speaking people of the Bundjalung Country, in particular the Goodjinburra, Tul-gi-gin and Moorung – Moobah clans, as being the traditional owners and custodians of the land and waters within the Tweed Shire boundaries. Council also acknowledges and respects the Tweed Aboriginal community’s right to speak for its Country and to care for its traditional Country in accordance with its lore, customs and traditions.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail, a top 10% global attraction, has significantly boosted the Tweed economy by over $3.7 million in its first year. Photo: The Tweed Tourism Co.

Council has installed an extra 160 solar panels at the Kingscliff Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Development application determinations

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

Application details

Approved

DA24/0210

– Swimming pool

Lot 2 DP 553577, No. 41 Scenic Drive, Bilambil Heights

DA24/0260 – Demolition

Lot 5 DP 565926, Lot 6 DP 565926, Lot 9 DP 830659, Lot 9 DP 830659, No. 204–218 Chinderah Bay Drive, Chinderah

DA24/0204 – Inground swimming pool

Lot 17 DP 1176104, No. 13 Tweed Valley Way, Condong

DA23/0603 – Demolition of existing dwelling, new dwelling and attached garage

Lot 1 DP 1180767, No. 1A Letitia Road, Fingal Head

DA23/0505 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling Lot 283 DP 542540, No. 64 Sutherland Street, Kingscliff

DA24/0059 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling, including pool house, swimming pool and associated decking, detached garage and tree removal

Lot 1 Section 17 DP 758739, No. 2 Bent Street, Murwillumbah

DA24/0201 – Use of detached dwelling addition and new additions

Lot 290 DP 1125090, No. 18 Woodfull Crescent, Pottsville

DA24/0244 – Inground swimming pool

Lot 210 DP 806528, No. 24 Buckingham Drive, Pottsville

DA24/0220 – Shed

Lot 441 DP 1270825, No. 37 Market Parade, Terranora

DA24/0225 – Swimming pool and associated decking

Lot 10 DP 204145, No. 374 Terranora Road, Terranora

DA24/0130 – Carport forward of building and use of alterations and additions to an existing dwelling

Lot 34 DP 244220, No. 25 Compass Way, Tweed Heads

DA24/0189 – Demolition of existing dwelling and construction of a new retaining wall

Lot 17 DP 865925, No. 23 Quayside Court, Tweed Heads

DA24/0167 – Carport within the front building line

Lot 1 SP 14554, Unit 1/No. 126 Jacaranda Avenue, Tweed Heads West

DA24/0255 – Swimming pool and decks

Lot 36 DP 29195, No. 63 Panorama Drive, Tweed Heads West

DA23/0574 – Erection of a dwelling to create a detached dual occupancy

Lot 398 DP 216708, No. 123 Hastings Road, Bogangar

DA23/0526 – Dual occupancy (attached) including two swimming pools and strata title subdivision

Lot 67 DP 1264557, No. 20 Black Wattle Circuit, Casuarina

DA24/0067 – Erection of new dwelling and secondary dwelling

Lot 7 DP 1264557, No. 35 Blue Horizon Drive, Casuarina

DA22/0454 – Demolition of existing dwelling and ancillary structures, construction of a residential flat building and related landscaping

Lot 9 Section 5 DP 758571, No. 41 Kingscliff Street, Kingscliff

DA23/0511 – Alterations and additions to existing commercial premises, change of use to medical facility and retail, signage and strata subdivision

Lot 1 DP 772600, No. 36–42 Murwillumbah Street, Murwillumbah

DA23/0253 – Retaining wall and vegetation removal

Lot 1 DP 783900, No. 886 Tomewin Road, Tomewin

DA22/0541 – Demolition of existing structures and erection of residential flat building (10 units)

Lot 17 Section 6 DP 4043, No. 15 Florence Street, Tweed Heads DA23/0084 – Use of existing alterations and additions and new alterations to a dual occupancy unit SP 42690, Lot 2 SP 42690, No. 36 Leeward Terrace, Tweed Heads DA24/0071 – Signage

Lot 2145 DP 879149, No. 13–17 Corporation Circuit, Tweed Heads South

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

Community notice

Chinderah Districts Residents Association – meet Tuesday 6 August 2024, 7 pm (AEST) at Uniting Church Hall, 24 Kingscliff Street, opposite nursing home Kingscliff.

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

02 6670 2400

PO Box 816, Murwillumbah NSW 2484

Affordable Housing – who needs it?

There’s still time to have your say on Council’s draft Affordable Housing Strategy – a plan which aims to tackle the significant shortage of affordable housing in the Tweed.

Although Council does not build homes, it can implement policy to require a percentage of homes to be affordable, freeing up more housing options for those who need it, such as essential workers in the early stages of their careers.

Essential workers are critical to the functioning of the Tweed community. We need to attract and retain nurses, teachers and police who are vital for our region’s health, safety and education. However, housing is becoming increasingly unaffordable for many of them.

The draft Affordable Housing Strategy outlines how Council will reform policy to enable housing supply.

It also has a mandated 10% target for Social and Affordable Housing.

Review and provide feedback on our Draft Affordable Housing Strategy before 4 pm, Wednesday 7 August on our Your Say Tweed page at yoursaytweed.com.au/affordablehousing

In the Tweed, housing is becoming increasingly unaffordable for essential workers, such as teachers.

Planning Committee meeting agenda – Thursday 1 August 2024

The Planning Committee meeting agenda for Thursday 1 August 2024 is available on Council's website tweed.nsw.gov.au/councillors-meetings . The meeting will be held at the Harvard Room, Tweed Heads Administration Building, Brett Street, Tweed Heads commencing at 3:30pm.

Agenda

Reports for consideration

Reports from the Director Planning and Regulation

8.1. Development Application DA23/0314 for shop top housing comprising 34 dwellings and 2 commercial tenancies at Lot 8

Section 2 DP 2379, Lot 2 DP 205411 No. 151 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads

8.2. Development Application DA23/0474 for minor alterations and additions to residential portion of existing shop top housing development to enclose a portion of common property to create private courtyard at SP 106372 No. 81 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads

8.3. Development Application DA15/0828.02 for an amendment to Development Consent DA15/0828 for three townhouses at Lot 53 SP 91510 No. 53/77 Tamarind Avenue, Bogangar

8.4. Development Application DA21/0707 for a staged subdivision of two existing lots into seven lots at Lot 33 DP 1252272 No. 3 Murraya Way Cudgen and Lot 34 DP 1252272 No. 9 Murraya Way, Cudgen

8.5. Planning Proposal PP23/0005 (Planning Portal Reference No. PP-2023-2444) - Lot 4 DP 1234959 No. 45 Bells Boulevard, Kingscliff – Salt Surf Lifesaving Club

8.6. Planning Proposal for Solo Resource Recovery (PP24/0004)

8.7. Draft Planning Proposal for Employment Land at Wardrop Valley Road, Lot 1 in DP 842157 (and Council Land - Lot 1 in DP 1069561) – progress update

8.8. Architectural Design Competition Waiver Request – Nos. 12-16 Florence Street, Tweed Heads

8.9. Mooball Urban Release Area – Completion of Clause 30 Pre-Development Application Lodgement Requirements (5867 and 5861 Tweed Valley Way Mooball, Lot 2 in DP 534496 and Lot 7 in DP 593200)

Council meeting agenda – Thursday 1 August 2024

The Council meeting agenda for Thursday 1 August 2024 is available on Council's website tweed.nsw.gov.au/councillors–meetings The meeting will be held at the Harvard Room, Tweed Heads Administration Building, Brett Street, Tweed Heads commencing at 3:30pm.

Agenda

Reports for consideration

Confirmation of minutes

3.1 Adoption of Recommendations from Planning Committee meeting held 1 August 2024

Reports from the Director Planning and Regulation

12.1 Fees and Charges amendments (Building and Environmental Health Fees)

Reports from the Director Sustainable Communities and Environment

13.1. Salt Surf Life Saving Club draft Plan of Management

13.2. Demolition of World Heritage Rainforest Centre

Orders of the day in Committee

22.1. Appeal Management DA23/0438

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

Notification of integrated development application

Development application no. DA24/0301

A development application has been lodged by Ms S Petersen seeking development consent for flood mitigation bund wall at Part Lot 1 DP 1058392 & Part Lot 2 DP 1058392; No. 123 McLeod Street, Condong . Tweed Shire Council is the consent authority for the application.

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

Provision Approval Authority

Sections 89, 90 & 91 of the Water Management Act 2000

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

Department of Planning and Environment –Water

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

The documents will be available for a period of 28 days from Wednesday 31 July to Wednesday 28 August 2024.

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

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

Please Note- Requirements regarding Disclosure of Political Gifts and Donations

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

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

tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

tweed.nsw.gov.au

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

Youth crime drops

By Jo Kennett

A LOCAL police boss says there has been a significant decrease in youth crime and anti-social behaviour following an increase in patrols, the arrest of some offenders and continued work diverting at-risk youths away from a life of crime.

Tweed-Byron Police District Crime Manager, Detective Acting Inspector Chris Elliot, said police have had “a specific targeted focus on youth crime over the past three to six months.”

“Following some significant arrests of tier two young offenders (who have committed a crime or pose a threat to public safety), there has been a significant reduction in youth-related crime and youth-related anti-social behaviour in and around the Tweed-Byron Police District (TBPD),” A/Insp Elliot told The Weekly.

“Part of this focus has been increased proactive patrols of high-risk areas such as local shopping centres and public transport hubs coupled with weekly Youth Crime Meetings involving members of the Senior Leadership Team, Youth Engagement Officers and the Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer where we discuss any youth-related interactions for

the week and review/ensure if the appropriate action was taken.”

Tweed-Byron Police have had a strategy in place for several years to divert young offenders from the criminal justice system.

“A number of police from the TBPD are actively involved in the weekly Fit for Life activities run from the Tweed Heads Police Citizens Youth Club on Wednesday mornings which include activities such as boxing, soccer, football, basketball, AFL and other fitness and team sport-related activities,” A/Insp Elliot said.

Tweed-Byron Police District Commander, Superintendent Dave Roptell, set up the Fit for Life program when he worked in western Sydney and it has since been rolled out around the state. Through the program they identify youths at risk of a life of crime and get them involved in fitness and sports.

According to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, most reoffending occurs fairly quickly, with 58 per cent of young people and 31 per cent of adults reoffending within just two years.

Reoffending for any offence was highest for those whose reference offence was break and enter.

Crashes mar V8 Superboats

By Jo Kennett

FOUR COMPETITORS in the Australian V8 Superboats Championship at Round Mountain Raceway were lucky to escape serious injury after two spectacular crashes on Sunday, July 28.

One organiser called the second crash the “most violent” he had ever seen in the jet boats. The accidents happened on day two of round one of the event, after what organisers called a great day with a good crowd and weather on Saturday.

“Paul Kelly (PK) in the Group A class had been running the quickest times on Sunday until the previous round when he was pipped by Ollie Silverton who is the current world champion,” Tweed Valley Jet Sprint Club’s Peter Monger said.

“Ollie had been behind PK all day so PK was going really well.

“He went out to try to regain his number one spot and one small error saw him barrel roll and upend the boat onto the nose and then another barrel roll landed them on the jet unit which propels the boat.

“The safety crew including NSW Ambulance paramedics and Tweed District Rescue were there straight away.

“PK’s wife Naomi had some back pain and so they put her in the ambulance and took her to the Gold Coast University Hospital where they did scans, but fortunately she is all clear.”

At around 2pm, disaster struck for the LS class Drop Bear Racing team, Laurie Howlett and his navigator wife Karen.

“They had a navigational error and flipped a bank, rolled in the air and hit the very edge of the track and the boat rolled in the air before it hit the firewall,” Peter said.

“It was spectacular.

“It was the most violent crash I’ve ever seen in the jet boats.

“It’s a testament to the safety features of the boat that they both came away with only minor

injuries.”

Karen was taken to hospital as a precaution.

“They thought she might have had a broken arm but I think it was just swelling,” Peter said.

“I think both teams will have to completely rebuild their boats so Laurie may retire — he is in his 60s — but it was Paul’s comeback meeting after being out for a few years.

“I’m not sure if he will want to rebuild but it will cost a fair bit of money if they do.”

Racing was halted after the last crash because there was no time to go to the elimination round so winners were called on the points up to then.

“A big thank you to the crowd that came out and were patient on the hill,” Peter said.

“Unfortunately these things can’t be helped because it’s all about safety on the day but we hope to see everyone back next time.”

Reigning champions Bastian Mullan won the LS Class, Silverton won Group A and Phonsy Mullan won the Unlimited Class.

The next V8 Superboats Championship meeting is at Round Mountain on August 31 and September 1.

Fit for Life at the Tweed Heads PCYC is engaging local kids in positive community activities

Lawrie and Karen Howlett from Drop Bear Racing survived a brutal crash. Photos: Tweed Valley Jet Sprints

Blitz on Tweed buses

By Jo Kennett

TWEED POLICE and Transport for NSW bosses say everyone has a right to feel safe on public transport after several people were arrested in a blitz on Tweed Heads buses in response to safety concerns expressed by local residents.

Tweed-Byron Police District Crime Manager, Detective Acting Inspector Chris Elliot, said the operation involved local police and Police Transport Command officers and focused on criminal activity and antisocial behaviour being committed on the public transport network including the rail and bus networks.

“As a result, in excess of 50 buses were inspected/ patrolled,” Acting Insp Elliot told The Weekly.

“In total five arrests were made, eight transport offences were detected, 11 street offences were detected, 6 people were searched and 17 people were issued lawful move-on directions.”

NSW Police say it’s part of an ongoing partnership “with a particular focus around the Tweed Heads area.”

The campaign saw local police increase patrols on nighttime bus services in recent weeks where there have been the highest number of safety incidents.

“We want to remind all passengers using public transport that threatening, offensive or unsafe behaviour will not be tolerated, and we urge anyone who sees this type of behaviour to come forward and report it to police,” Supt Roptell said.

“The NSW Police Force and Transport for NSW will remain vigilant in monitoring bus and train services around the Tweed Heads area and will conduct further operations as needed.”

Police Transport Command (PTC) North/Central Sector Commander, Detective Superintendent Todd Cunningham, said the operations have strengthened the relationship between the community, local police, PTC and Transport for NSW.

“What has been so rewarding from these recent operations on the north coast is not only the positive results during the operation, but an ongoing decrease in reported incidents on our transport networks, showing how effective the operations are long-term.”

Chief Customer Officer for Transport for NSW

Roger Weeks said behaviour that “threatens the safety of either staff or the travelling public is completely unacceptable.”

Echidna crossing alert

By Jo Kennett

THEY ARE super cute and they are on the move, with residents asking to be on the lookout for echidnas.

Police Transport Command and Transport for NSW conducted a four-day blitz, patrolling buses and bus stops in the Tweed Heads area, as well as travelling on North Coast XPTs.

Three people were also charged in relation to three separate matters including an outstanding warrant, alleged breach of bail, and the possession of a graffiti implement.

Tweed-Byron Police District Commander, Superintendent David Roptell, said “the community can be assured that necessary actions will be taken in the future.”

Mr Weeks said that public transport is an essential community service, and “everyone has the right to feel secure and safe when using it.”

“It’s also essential for drivers and onboard teams to have a safe workplace,” he said.

Kinetic Executive General Manager Martin Hall thanked police and Transport for NSW, saying feedback from drivers and passengers during the operations had been overwhelmingly positive.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Have you had a good or not so good experience on a local bus route? The Weekly would like to hear your thoughts via editor@ theweekly.net.au

Koala Beach and Pottsville Wildlife Watch’s Irene Tims said that from July it’s the echidna breeding season and they are on the move.

“Unfortunately that also means they will be often found on our roads,” Irene said.

“Now is the time to raise awareness of our special little guys and be on high echidna alert when driving.”

A dead echidna was found on the side of Terranora Road, Terranora, on Wednesday, July 17. Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers were notified.

Koala Beach resident Chris Farnell was walking with a friend who was visiting the

shire when they came upon an echidna.

“We did a walk in the Pottsville Environmental Park and saw an echidna which happened to be on the walking track,” Chris said.

“It wasn’t at all worried about us being there.

“We stayed watching for half an hour while it was digging the ground for ants with its nose.

“It was a special day for me and my friend.

“I live in Koala Beach in Pottsville which is an environment estate set up 25 years ago by Tweed Shire Council for sustainability and it’s great to see we still have so much wildlife around but we need to take care of it.”

If you see an injured echidna or any other wildlife call Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers 24-hour hotline on (02) 6672 4789.

An echidna at the Pottsville Environmental Park. Photo: Chris Farnell

Tweed Police have been out on the beat helping keep our bus network safe

Local school vying to be Australia’s best

By Jonathon Howard

A SMALL public school in Murwillumbah is punching well above its weight and was recently named in the top seven regional schools in Australia.

Murwillumbah Public School has around 240 students and a driven group of outstanding teachers headed up by passionate principal Les Daley.

Principal Daley runs a tight ship and cannot accept even one student being left behind in what he said is a “whole-of-school approach”.

Astute at data collection and building a strong team, Mr Daley said the school’s model has been largely focused on collaboration with students and staff as well as being driven by data.

As part of our special ‘Early Education Week’ feature this week, The Weekly was invited to find out more about Murwillumbah Public School, as it vies for the coveted title of best regional school in Australia.

“What we’ve done as a school is looked closely at — the student’s academic outcomes, teachers’ professional development and involvement in curriculum design,” he said.

“We also look at how we collaborate with student and teachers.”

Mr Daley uses the example of a key initiative at the school that’s he’s coined “continual improvement”.

“In 2023 we had the school assessed with a focus on fluency and vocabulary,” he said.

“We designed a number of comprehension exercises which were unique and aligned with research and data.

“From these results we were able to focus on the model of ‘what works best’, which is a lens to reflect on our teaching practices.

“We were able to use this data to provide feedback to the students and data collection of what works.”

The school, which is celebrating 150 years in Murwillumbah this year, has adopted evidence based best practices to achieve top outcomes.

“Post assessment tests are performed to check students’ growth and effectiveness,” Mr Daley said.

“Years 4 to 6 are performing well above the state average in educational outcomes and we’re achieving high results in numeracy and literacy.”

The school has employed additional support staff for teachers to ensure student-teacher ratios are aiding students.

“We carry out a lot of pre-test and post-test results to track the students’ growth and provide additional support where needed,” he said.

Although the school is yet to find out if it will claim Australia’s top regional school prize, the school is already a winner in Mr Daley’s eyes.

“It’s an amazing school community we have here,” he said, beaming with pride.

“We’re down to the final six schools in Australia and Murwillumbah Public is the only public school in the running.

“We will find out the big result on Friday, August 9, which is the final for the Australian Regional School of the Year.”

The school has previously received the secretary’s award for educational excellence.

Mr Daley highlighted two areas that he believes are at the core of an amazing school.

“Commitment from the staff and a wholeof-school approach to explicit teaching and collaboratively working with staff for the best outcomes for our students,” he said, as well as stressing the school is “data driven for educational outcomes”.

Mr Daley has been at the helm of Murwillumbah Public for the past 12 years and although the school has faced challenges, he’s confident the school’s formula is a winner.

“If students are happy, they want to come to school,” he said.

“I’m really proud of my staff and the collaborative approach with our students that’s getting results.”

Using a sporting analogy from rugby league, Mr Daley said for a team to perform well: “everyone has to perform”.

“Schools are similar. You have to get to know the students and their strengths and areas to improve,” he said.

“After we know how to support the students we throw the relevant resources at the issues. After all, it’s all about a team effort.”

Choir collab at M|Arts

IF YOU love singing and want to have some fun, a new community choir is starting on Thursday, August 8 at M-Arts in Murwillumbah with a well known singer leading the first event.

The choir is a collaboration between Mike DiCecco from Yodelay Music in Cabarita and Janet Swain from Song Dynasty Music, who Mike describes as a great local choir leader.

“For our first one, we have Tania Doko from Bachelor Girl coming to lead the choir in their hit 90s song, Permission to Shine,” Mike said.

“It should be a great time and we’d love to see as many people there as we can get.”

Why not join Mike and Janet in what they say will be “a great big joyful community sing, as we learn harmonies for Bachelor Girl’s huge hit in the 90s, Permission to Shine.”

“Led by Janet, with Gina Ogilvie on guitar, Michael Di Cecco on drums and you singing vocals with Tania,” Mike said.

“The bar will be open, and everyone is welcome to come and have a sing.”

Big Sing Thing is on Thursday, August 8, 6pm to 8pm, M-Arts Murwillumbah

Tickets are $15 each or $30 for a family. Tickets at the door or via Humanitix.

A winning formula at Murwillumbah Public School with principal Les Daley at the helm

Tania Doko from Bachelor Girl

Stand for your community

This September, the NSW Government is calling on people from all backgrounds to stand for election to their local council.

Nola’s green team ready for elections

By Jonathon Howard

This September, the NSW Government is calling on people from all backgrounds to stand for election to their local council.

Your council does more than just look after roads, rates and rubbish. It plays a vital role in your community and councillors’ decisions affect your daily life. Councils need to be diverse to better represent your local community.

This September, the NSW Government is calling on people from all backgrounds to stand for election to their local council. Your council does more than just look after roads, rates and rubbish. It plays a vital role in your community and councillors’ decisions affect your daily life. Councils need to be diverse to better represent your local community.

SHE’S THE leading candidate from the Greens Party and Councillor Nola Firth says she’s ready to run in the September 14 local government elections with her campaign team behind her.

You, or someone you know, could help make life better in your community. No formal qualifications are required and training is available for elected councillors.

You, or someone you know, could help make life better in your community. No formal qualifications are required and training is available for elected councillors. Nominations open on 5

Nominations open on 5 August and close 14 August 2024. Local government elections are on 14 September

Nominations open on 5 August and close 14 August 2024. Local government elections are on 14 September 2024.

Cr Firth has this week introduced her team consisting of Mary-Jane (MJ) Edwards, Hilary Green and Julianne Sandison, who will hit the campaign trail .

“This group of talented and accomplished women wholeheartedly support my achievements on council and want to ensure I continue the work I have begun towards a greener more sustainable Tweed for all,” Cr Firth told The Weekly.

Ms Edwards grew up in the Tweed, which has instilled her with a deep commitment to the local community.

She has a background in ecology and conservation biology, and a career in bush regeneration.

“MJ also had first-hand experience as a frontline volunteer with the RFS during the Black Summer bushfires and devastating floods that followed,” Cr Firth said.

“This strengthened her conviction of the need for immediate, sustained action.”

of The Greens,” Cr Firth said.

All three women have a lifelong commitment to environmental protection and are deeply aware of the unique biodiversity of the Tweed, but also its fragility in the face of habitat destruction and climate change.

Ms Green has worked in education for 42 years as a high school teacher and at universities for three decades, and holds a PhD in statistics.

Cr Firth said her team are committed to sustainable practices, a renewable energy transition and robust and practical environmental protections — all of which are reflected in measures that Cr Firth has taken.

Visit the Office of Local Government’s website for more information.

olg.nsw.gov.au

“Statistics is based on common sense as are Greens policies,” Ms Green said.

olg.nsw.gov.au

Ms Sandison has been a Tweed resident for 20 years and is a qualified teacher with a master’s degree in environmental advocacy from the University of New England.

“She stands as a hard-working local, passionate environmental supporter and proud member

“They are also deeply concerned about Tweed’s growing homelessness and look forward to supporting me in my ongoing advocacy for local solutions to both social and affordable housing,” she said.

Cr Firth’s team launch will take place at the Sheoak Shack in Fingal Head on Sunday, August 11, from 12.30pm.

changeover

IN A sometimes emotional speech at the completion of two years as President of the Murwillumbah Lions Club, outgoing President Trevor Hill said he came to the end of his term with feelings of both pride and gratitude.

Reflecting on his term, he was par ticularly pleased that the club had once again become involved in the International Youth Exchange program, both sponsoring and hosting youth throughout his term.

New members joined and many organisations and individuals were helped both locally and in the wider community, due mainly to the dedi cated members who participated in the club’s fundraising projects.

A particular mention was made of the continued involvement of catering at the cattle sales by a dedicated team of Lions members.

Mr Hill said he was particularly pleased that the combined services dinners involving the town’s three Rotary Clubs had once again been revived. Working together with many service clubs, he said he was looking forward to Carols in the Park planned for December.

Mr Hill acknowledged the great support he had received from wife Val throughout his two-year term. In closing, he thanked the club board and members for their assistance and guidance and encouraged members to continue to serve with pride and passion.

Mr Hill has accepted the position of Zone Chairman for this area’s group of Lions Clubs for 2024/2025 and will join the cabinet of incoming District Governor Jorge Salles.

The Greens' team are ready to run in the September local government elections. (L to R): Julianne Sandison, Nola Firth, Hilary Green and MJ Edwards. Photo by Chelle Wallace

Left: Outgoing President Trevor Hill pins the president's badge on incoming President Val Hill. Right: Trevor Hill makes a presentation to local teenage singer/songwriter Emmagen Rain to help further her career in Nashville

By Jonathon Howard

WE ALL know the Tweed is home to some of the best food and produce in Australia, but we are lacking a food festival to celebrate and accentuate that fact.

But the call for a food festival has been answered by Tweed Tourism Co and Tweed Shire Council, who are set to host ‘Savour the Tweed’ from October 30 to November 3.

This exciting new food festival promises to not only feature some of the finest local food available, but will also be accessible for all budgets. Contrary to the perception that food festivals are often expensive, Savour the Tweed will offer a range of affordable experiences alongside fine dining events.

Tweed Tourism Co Manager Sally Scott, one of the event organisers, emphasised that Savour the Tweed provides something for everyone, with ticket prices ranging from $25 to $175.

Supported by council and grant funds from the NSW Government and Destination NSW, including a $20,000 incubator funding grant, the event is still seeking additional sponsorship to align with Australia’s newest food and drink showcase. This annual event aims to elevate the perception of what’s available in the Tweed, highlighting the region’s exceptional food quality.

Ms Scott noted that the Tweed is known for producing some of Australia’s best food. The festival will connect the community, showcase the region’s diversity, and feature the entire Tweed Shire from coast to hinterland in a tasteled journey.

Among the many events, attendees can look forward to a brunch cheese and saison drink pairing at Kat Harvey Cheese, a culinary seaweed lunch at Pipit seafood masterclass at Fins,

an Argentinean dinner at Burringbar Hall and a posh barbecue seafood dinner at Fins Plantation House.

Amy Colli, local food advocate and co-organiser of Savour the Tweed, said around 26 amazing chefs from the Tweed and surrounding areas will be involved in the five-day event.

She highlighted the growing recognition of the Tweed as a strong foodie destination, with nationally recognised destinations chefs like Tweed local, Christine Manfield collaborating on the festival program organisation. New highlights include Ventura Brewing in South Murwillumbah’s industrial estate and Raven Place Farm on Clothiers Creek Road.

The festival will also feature a Farm & Co lunch with chef Belinda Jeffery walking tour, an exploration of food history at the Tweed Regional Museum, a kids’ cooking class at Kingscliff Bowls Club, and a live jazz performance and brunch at Teakwood cafe.

A special pop-up event hosted by Lolita’s at the Rail Trail and a formal gathering at the Teakwood Store in Burringbar are also on the schedule.

The event will kick off with special guest chef and Murwillumbah local Jason Saxby at the Murwillumbah Farmers Markets an afternoon foraging tour at Fingal Head, followed by an opening dinner at the Kingscliff Community Hall with Bundjalung chef Mindy Woods.

Mayor Chris Cherry expressed pride in the partnership between Tweed Tourism Co and council, noting the benefits for the entire region. She shared a personal connection, mentioning that her family grows Davidson plum - an example of a local, native ingredient, many of which will be featured throughout the festival. which will be featured at the event.

The launch of Savour the Tweed marks a new beginning

Harriet Messenger from Husk Distillery an iconic location that will feature at Savour The Tweed. (Right) Mayor Chris Cherry helped to officially announce the Tweed's latest food festival

Murwillumbah Public School

Murwillumbah Public School is committed to sustaining a positive, caring and inclusive school culture where students and staff work in a supportive environment with a focus on quality teaching and high levels of attainment for all students. At Murwillumbah Public School you will see:

• Outstanding programs for kindergarten students that ensure a successful first year for every child.

• State and national recognition for curriculum excellence in literacy and numeracy.

• Music programs in instrumental and choral that are acknowledged as some of the best in NSW

• Dance, sporting and cultural activities that showcase student excellence.

• Happy students learning, playing, supporting each other and having fun.

Education Week

Question: What’s great about your school, and what makes it special?

Hare Krishna School

With teacher Keli Dorman and responses from students Bodhi Brinkmann and Sita Parkinson: What’s great about our school is we have small classrooms with more targeted learning and this means the teachers can really help each student to develop. The school also offers a great range of subjects from arts and drama to geography and history. The school also teaches really good values such as compassion, kindness and cleanliness. Every day the students share in a healthy, warm meal. What’s special is our amazing location with a beautiful view of Mt Warning (Wollumbin) and the Tweed Valley. The location lends itself to a great aura which is good for learning.

Condong Public School

Principal Brendan Quinn said one of the great things about our school is the students. They're incredibly resilient, very respectful, welcoming and inclusive. The school has excellent studentteacher ratios, and the staff are constantly going above and beyond to provide rich, engaging and meaningful education.

Condong school captain Mileika Elliott the teachers are really kind and they organise lots of fun things.

“I've got lots of friends and they're really kind,” she said.

Murwillumbah Public School

Celebrating Learning at Murwillumbah Public School

Education Week 2024 is a particularly signi cant one for Murwillumbah Public School. The school has been nominated for the Australian Regional School of the year and has reached the nals of this award. The winner will be announced at a Gala Education week event at the Crown Casino in Sydney on Friday 9th August. Murwillumbah Public School is the only public primary school in Australia to reach this stage. This is an incredible achievement. The awards showcase the most

outstanding schools and recognise those that make a profound difference to learning outcomes for students. The award is great recognition of the quality of curriculum the school delivers and the professionalism and abilities of its staff.

The award acknowledges that Murwillumbah Public School is one of the highest performing schools in Australia and that its focus on community links, strong academic, cultural, musical and sporting programs and commitment to

innovation and improvement has led to signi cant student progress. We have ngers and toes crossed and look forward to the big announcement next Friday.

During Education Week we will also bring our staff, students and parent community together at the annual whole school breakfast to be held in conjunction with the book fair on Tuesday 6th August. Breakfast will begin at 7.30am with the book fair taking place from 8.00am till 9.00am. This will be followed by open classrooms

from 9.20am and a whole school assembly at 10.00am. The week also features choir preparations for their performance at the Sydney Opera House on 14th August, the district athletics carnival at Kingscliff on Thursday and the school excursion to the Byron Writers Festival on Wednesday. With many students also involved in annual learn to swim programs and bicycle education events on the rail trail it is, as always, a celebration of learning at Murwillumbah Public School.

Education Week

Uki Public School

ENROLLING NOW FOR KINDERGARTEN 2025

Why choose Uki?

• Experienced, nurturing and friendly staff

• Outstanding teaching and great academic results

• Plenty of extra-curricular activities, including sport, band, choir, coding, pottery, drama, camps and excursions

• Support and extension programs

• Calm classrooms, sense of belonging

• Welcoming community

• Beautiful environment and play areas

• Lots of fun events

“We couldn’t be happier that we’ve chosen Uki Public School for our family. The teachers and staff genuinely care about the children and the opportunities provided are fantastic.”

James and Jo, Parents

Call the school on (02) 6679 5128 to arrange a tour with the Principal –we’d love to meet your family!

This year’s Educati on Week theme is Proud to belong. Stokers Siding Public School celebrates the journey students and learners take throughout the NSW Educati on system. Through respectf ul and reciprocal relati onships, we aim to provide a connected environment which creates and supports a love of

Uki Public School

Principal Rachel Watkins said what’s great about Uki Public is everybody is looked after at their point of learning. We have extension learning as well as a wide network of support and plenty of opportunities for extra circular activities such as sport, music, choir, pottery, art, drama and academic pursuits. What’s special about Uki Public is the people. We are the heart of the community here at Uki Public. The kids know and respect and help each other. The teachers are nurturing and caring and there’s a strong sense of belonging.

Stokers Siding Public School

Principal Justine Griffin said what’s great about the school is the teachers always come up with great new ideas that keep learning really fun and interesting. Students always end up bringing something to share at home with their families. At Stokers we have a program called nature explorers. We learn bush craft and explore all around the bush. We’re also building some cubby houses. The students designed them and build them. The school has also been part of a collaborative small schools band which meets here in Stokers Siding. We’ve also been part of the PSSA Small school sporting events, plus school excursions and camps. As part of our sustainable schools program we now have an indigenous resource garden and we put in a yarning circle and signage which have welcome in Bundjalung and braille.

Stokers Siding PUBLIC SCHOOL

learning. We value curiosity, creati vity, and criti cal thinking as we grow together to be conﬁ dent, resilient, and adaptable lifelong learners. Stokers Siding Public School nurtures diversity, inclusion, and engagement through programs such as Nature Explorers, music, STEM, sport, gardening, and wellbeing programs.

To celebrate Educati on Week, we are

holding a special assembly and parent/ caregiver aft ernoon tea, on Thursday 15 August at 1pm. Please save the date for a Spring Community event on Sunday 3 September. Enjoy quality ti me with loved ones, stroll or ride along the rail trail to Stokers Siding Public School and join us for a relaxing picnic. There will be a sausage sizzle, cool drinks, bake stall, facepainti ng, open classrooms and fun acti viti es for all to enjoy. We hope to see you there!

Contact Justi ne Griﬃ n, Principal, Stokers Siding Public School P: 02 6677 9236

W: stokerssiding-p.schools.nsw.edu.au E: stokerssid-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Contact

Justine Griﬃn, Principal

Stokers Siding Public School P: 02 6677 9236

W: stokerssiding-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

E: stokerssid-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

‘Small School, Big Family’

Differentiated individual learning delivered within small class sizes.

Our programs foster leadership, respect and social responsibility, building conﬁdence, self-esteem and a love of learning.

Our school is a big family where children play and learn with older and younger peers in and out of the classroom. This nurtures positive relationships and respect for one another.

Kunghur Northern Rivers Preschool

We have reopened and are inviting parents to our special open on Saturday, August 3, from 10am to 12pm. Director Bridget Isichei said we’re a strong part of the local community and want to invite residents back to our new and improved Kunghur school model. Our preschool has a big focus on sustainability, local connection to country and offers very experienced and qualified teachers. The point of difference here is our curriculum is developed around our children’s interests and our families’ values. We are pleased to be sharing the historic Kunghur Hall again with the local community.

Fingal Head Public School

NOW OPEN FOR TERM 3

Principal Belinda Eadsforth said what’s special about the school is the students, staff and families.

Another very special part about Fingal Head Public is our strong connection to country and culture. We also have a strong history at our school that instills a sense of pride in our students. Our school is great because we’re small with big opportunities. Come and check out our incredible school culture and learn how your children can thrive at our school.

Mt Warning Preschool

Director Ness Bryant said we have such an awesome play environment for our children both indoors and outdoors in one of the most scenic parts of the world. What sets us apart is the community which is amazing and is like a big family. We have family play group from newborn to five years old. Here at Mt Warning Preschool we have a focus on mind, body and spirit.

Murwillumbah East Public School

Principal Kate Butson said the great part about our school is considering some of the challenges over the past five years — including multiple floods — that’s united the school community through collaboration and a stronger culture here that everyone belongs. It’s resulted in students that thrive because they’re happy at school. We’re in the process of our four-year evaluation and we’re about to consult with our community to shape the future of the school and build on the great programs that we already have.

Joey’s Pouch Early Childhood

The strong bonds our educators foster with children to allow them to observe and identify children’s emerging interests and needs and develop targeted learning opportunities that are engaging and developmentally appropriate. When designing the program, educators strive to balance intentional teaching, observations of children’s interests and growth, theories of development, and foster a partnership between families to establish continuity in the program and to help achieve the best outcomes for children. We have been providing care to families within the community for over thirty-five years and therefore know the importance of establishing meaningful relationships and fostering a sense of belonging within children. As the only not for profit early education long daycare service in Murwillumbah, managed by parents and families of the children attending, our focus is hinged on honouring the holistic nature of childhood.

Tumbulgum Public School

Principal Genevieve Esgate said what’s great is Tumbulgum Public School is small and inclusive. We’re also very nurturing at Tumbulgum Public and we’re like a big family. Our special features are we have beautiful school grounds, high student-toteacher ratios and we’re about to build our brand-new flood-proof school.

CONDONG PUBLIC SCHOOL

Condong Public School - Where students develop a love of learning and are encouraged to become highly engaged and creative learners.

Condong Public School proudly offers:

• A nurturing and happy environment

• High expectations for all students

• Passionate, innovative and supportive teachers

• A dynamic and challenging curriculum

• Meaningful student leadership opportunities

• A strong partnership with the community

• Nature based creative play resources to promote imaginative play

• Student led gardens to promote environmental and sustainable learning

Temporarily situated at Murwillumbah South Infants School with buses available.

Your local school in the Condong and Nunderi areas

MURWILLUMBAH EAST PUBLIC SCHOOL

NAIDOC Week has always been an important part of our school calendar here at Murwillumbah East Public School and this year is no exception. Observing the 2024 theme of ‘Keep the ﬁre burning! Blak, Loud and Proud!’ ensures that while our students are participating in celebrations, they are learning about and recognising the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

On our return to school in term 3, Mrs Lynette Kane organised a week full of activities starting on Tuesday with an introduction to language by talented local artist and Bundjalung man, Jason King. After spending time listening to Jason and learning some new words to use in our classrooms, students covered their hands in ochre and collaborated on a school-wide canvas which has turned out to be an amazing

piece of art for us to cherish. Classroom learning followed the theme with students able to create their own stories using only symbols which they could then expand on in written pieces, creating art and putting their new language skills into practice. We were privileged to have Jason King return on Thursday to present artifact, including valuable boomerangs. Our students not only learned about these items but also had the amazing opportunity to hold, feel and connect with them, rather than just viewing them through glass at a museum. Each student then decorated their own boomerang with symbols and designs they had created. In the afternoon we headed out to our beautiful oval to participate in a fast-paced staff vs students’ game of Buroinjin, the cheering could be heard in town and staff just

managed to sneak the win!

Our ofﬁcial NAIDOC assembly on Friday was an opportunity for the community to be involved in school events, which we value highly at Murwillumbah East Public School. Sitting outside by the Yarning Circle, our students, staff, parents, and community members were treated to a dance performance by our Deadly Leaders and Crew dressed in traditional dance costumes. Deadly Leaders showed their leadership skills

by running the assembly and introducing guests, speakers, and performers including Year 11 MLC student, Angel White, who once again amazed us all with her talent.

Enrolments for 2025 are open and our Principal, Kate Butson, is eager to talk to you about all the exciting programs and opportunities Murwillumbah East Public School can offer your children. Call our school ofﬁce on (02)6672 6781 to make an appointment.

Education Week

Dungay Public School

Principal Joshua Stephens has returned home to Dungay after his exciting adventures as an associate principal at the Hong Kong International School. Mr Stephens said what’s great about Dungay Public is the teachers and staff who show high care for all their students, but also have high expectations for each student to be their best academically and socially. What’s special is our unique environment where students can explore the natural surrounds and have ample space to sing, play and laugh. Come and see it for yourself and feel the position energy and culture of Dungay Public School.

Banora Point Public School

Principal Joanna Henderson said what’s special about our school firstly is this beautiful sense of community. Although we are one of the bigger schools of the Tweed, we know our students and our families personally and can accommodate the students’ varying needs. Our school is a strong community and family-oriented school. What’s great about our school is nothing is ever too hard or too big. As we are navigating our new curriculum, as all schools are, we are making students the centre of all our decisions. We are making sure we have an academic focus but maintaining the fun of education with activities that create long lasting memories. The theme of Education Week this year is ‘Proud to Belong’ so a lot of our school activities are reflecting and celebrating our school and what students are proud of at their school.

Engaging Minds, Empowering Success

Banora Point Public School provides a collaborative and harmonious community empowering successful learners.

Our school operates under the banner statement of 'Engaging minds, Empowering success' and we take pride in nurturing an inclusive, positive and collaborative learning environment.

BANORA POINT PUBLIC SCHOOL Book a school tour today!

We are now welcoming enrolments for 2025. Please enrol online at the Banora Point Public School website, or contact our office on 07 5524 1444.

every student. e dedicated sta work tirelessly to build strong relationships and cultivate a family-like atmosphere, ensuring a respectful, positive, and supportive learning environment.

e school’s curriculum is thoughtfully designed, blending a diverse range of engaging and purposeful learning activities tailored to the unique needs and passions of each student. From a specialized music program to an active sporting and health curriculum, as well as an outdoor inquiry-based science program, Dungay Public School provides a dynamic and well-rounded educational experience.

At the heart of Dungay Public School is a steadfast commitment to student-centered education. With a dynamic and positive team of educators, the school strives to foster an energetic and vibrant environment where students can thrive, explore, and reach their full potential.

New Men’s Shed launch

By Jo Kennett

A GROUP of local residents are setting up a Men’s Shed in Kingscliff and are looking for men interested in joining to attend their first community meeting on Friday, August 9.

“We have our first community meeting at the Kingscliff Beach Bowling Club; they were happy to assist with a free meeting venue,” set up team member Kevin Strachan told The Weekly.

“There are currently three of us — Allan May (who set up the Pottsville Men’s Shed), Vince Silvestro and myself — who are all members of the Pottsville Men’s Shed but see the need for a men’s group in Kingscliff.

“We have spoken to Tweed Shire Council and they are keen to assist.

“We had a stall at the markets and in the mall and we have already had 50 people sign up so it’s gone a lot better than we hoped.”

Kevin said they have identified a number of suitable sites in Kingscliff which they hope to discuss with council.

“There are over 1,200 registered Men’s Sheds in Australia and all are keenly supported by council, state and federal governments and the local communities in general,” he said.

“Starting such a project is a daunting task but we have registered with NSW Fair Trading.

“Our next task is to find local men interested

in becoming part of this organisation to embrace the opportunities to help all sections of the community from preschool to aged care and in between.

“We have a lot of talent in our retired citizens and we will channel that talent into worthwhile community projects.”

Allan May says the main priority of the Men’s Shed is men’s health.

“When men retire they can become housebound and lose a sense of purpose and a focus on life going forward,” he said.

“A Men’s Shed can help to restore that sense of purpose and fulfilment because it makes men feel they are still worthy members of the community and their wives survive the experience of having their husbands at home all the time.

“It supports the guys as well as their families.”

Mayor Chris Cherry and Cr James Owen have offered their assistance to help get the group off the ground.

If you are keen to join the Men’s Shed please come along to the Kingscliff Beach Bowls Club on Friday, August 9, from 11.30am to 1.30pm. There is also a meeting on Friday, August 16 from 11.30am to 1.30pm.

For more information call Kevin on 0405 563 820, Allan on 0439 852 212 or email kingscliffmensshed@gmail.com

Paddle marathon a success

By Mike Gout

THE INAUGURAL Tweed 30 paddle marathon was held in near-perfect conditions on Sunday, July 21, with 70 paddlers tackling the 30 kilometre journey down the Tweed River from the Murwillumbah Rowing Club to Jack Evans Boat Harbour at Tweed Heads.

Competitors included solo and double paddlers completing the full distance, and relay teams each paddling around ten kilometres with transition points at Tumbulgum and Chinderah.

The event was undertaken by 15 ocean skis (including two doubles), 12 relay teams each of three single ocean skis (five all female and seven mixed teams), five outriggers (including two doubles), four kayaks (including two doubles), four rowers (including two doubles) and two SUPs, making up 42 different competitors.

The overall winner was Mackenzie Hynard in a single kayak finishing in 2:06:48, with the first ocean ski relay team of Abbey Carter, Justin Appi and Stephen Alexander second across the line in 2:16:33 and the first double ski team of Stuart Bryson and Stuart Thomson fourth overall in 2:17:25.

Each of those category winners received $200 prize money, to be shared if a team.

The day started early at the wonderful facilities of the Murwillumbah Rowing Club where competitors could get an early morning coffee with views of Mount Warning across the glassy water whilst awaiting race briefing and the various start times.

The SUPs and rowers set off separately ahead of the main group of 36 craft that lined up for their 9am start.

There was virtually no assistance from the tide or wind over the first section to Tumbulgum, with paddlers travelling under the Cane Road bridge and passing the Condong Sugar mill on the right.

Conditions improved over the second section as the tide started to run out and that improved even further as the breeze started to increase behind the fleet.

The outgoing tide was helpful

for the final leg as competitors passed under the M1 Motorway and headed for the finish line.

The wind was changing and at times was a headwind, and paddlers also had to deal with a bit of chop from the greater number of powered craft on the lower section of the Tweed.

All craft were back at Jack Evans before midday where they were able to enjoy complimentary Subway sandwiches and flavoured milk.

Currumbin Creek Paddlers Club (CCPC) president Peter Hickey was pleased with the numbers and feedback from competitors at the finish.

“It was great to see paddlers from Lismore to Bundaberg support this new and longer event on the paddle calendar,” Peter said.

“All enjoyed the picturesque journey down the Tweed River and appreciated the food and drink after the race to refuel themselves.

“A special thanks must go out to those who made this event possible; the Murwillumbah Rowing Club for use of their facilities to start the race, Scott Sharples from Paddle Queensland for sanctioning this as part of the Pacific C oast Marathon Paddle Series and managing the timekeeping and results, Tony Brown for photography both preceding and on t he day, and the various CCPC volunteers who undertook all the event organisation and boat safety.

“With the feedback from the day, the CCPC committee will have a debrief and start to make plans for the Tweed 30 event in 2025.

“Our next event on the Tweed River will be the Chinderah Chase on October 6th, Race 8 of the Pacific Coast Marathon Series offering paddlers the choice of 5, 10 or 15km distances of a 5km figure-of-eight course around two small islands in the river.”

Stone & Wood is still our local brew

By Jonathon Howard

STONE & WOOD’S Murwillumbah brewery is preparing to celebrate ten years since setting up shop in the Tweed Valley and will host its annual ‘Murbah Open Day’ on Saturday, August 3.

The beer company’s brewery director and president of the Ingrained Foundation Richard Crowe spoke with The Weekly recently about the company’s journey, the 2021 corporate takeover and the future of Stone & Wood in Murwillumbah.

Mr Crowe said the company remains “even more committed” to its roots of community, culture and sustainability by investing and supporting locally.

First started in Byron Bay in 2008, Stone & Wood built its foundations as the beer of the Northern Rivers.

The formula paid off and the beer was embraced by locals from Ballina to the Tweed and is even reaching new heights now being served right across the country as a taste of the good life.

The sale of the Stone & Wood brand to Lion Corporate — owners of Tooheys and XXXX — in late 2021 signalled a changing of the guard and there were initial fears the ‘hyper local’ aspect of the iconic brand could be lost.

Mr Crowe spoke at length to The Weekly about the changes to the company and was quick to emphasise the company’s continued importance of embracing culture and commitment to community and sustainability.

“Lion has been incredibly supportive,” Mr Crowe said.

“They’ve understood what they were

buying — the same people, the same outlook. We’re as proud as we’ve ever been.”

Mr Crowe, who has been with the company since the beginning, said Stone & Wood has not lost its local appeal and continues to thrive in a tough market, while preserving its unique culture and traditions.

“Lion’s support has been instrumental in maintaining the original team and their shared vision, ensuring that the brewery remains a beloved local institution,” he said.

If anything, Mr Crowe said Lion’s investment has added to the preservation of the brand by backing the local staff and investing in their future.

Mr Crowe said Stone & Wood Murwillumbah has now purchased its existing site and is growing its operation.

“The brewery has made significant investments in its current site, enhancing its facilities to better serve the community and its patrons,” Mr Crowe said.

“The new tasting room is a testament to this commitment, offering a welcoming space for visitors to explore the wide range of beers on offer.

“Stone & Wood also remains a relatively small player in the brewing industry, but its heart firmly resides in the Northern Rivers.”

Mr Crowe highlighted the importance of local employment and supporting local suppliers, which he said Lion had backed the whole way.

“Northern Rivers is our home. Our whole team is very supportive of retaining local employment and local suppliers,” he said.

This year’s open day holds special significance as it showcases the brewery’s charity, Ingrained Foundation, who will be fundraising for Wedgetail Retreat.

The collaboration underscores Stone & Wood’s philosophy of giving back to the community that has been integral to its success.

“We know from the open day that people are interested in beer making,” Mr Crowe said.

This year’s open day marks a decade since the first Stone & Wood Murwillumbah open day on Anzac Day in 2014, a significant milestone for the brewery.

The event promises to be bigger and better, with a focus on sustainability and innovation.

Mr Crowe said Stone & Wood has invested in carbon dioxide capture technology and uses regenerative grain and hops, benefiting local farmers and the environment.

The brewery’s dedication to quality and community has not gone unnoticed.

“Stone & Wood’s Big Pale was recently awarded the overall champion at the IABA awards, a testament to

its

Mr Crowe said his Murbah team are looking forward to a big turnout, celebrating the local beer that has become a symbol of community spirit

and resilience.

“Stone & Wood remains the locals’ beer,” Mr Crowe said with pride.

“We’re excited to reach this milestone and continue our journey with the community that supports us.”

Murwillumbah Mustangs

Richard Crowe says Stone & Wood remains the beer of the Tweed and Northern River despite the purchase of the iconic label by Lion

excellence in brewing amidst the largest beer entries,” he said.

Donations go to Wedgetail

did a number on the Tigers at Campbelltown.

WHAT A great weekend to kick off the NRLW season 2024. The reigning premiers were cruising all game and looked comfortable until the last minute when the chooks had a chance to go to overtime but the kick sailed wide.

A few of the Sharks stars were on song as Cronulla rolled the Cowboys and the Broncos woes continued for the whole club going down to Parra 22-10 with a few fist a cuffs being thrown in for good measure.

The Titans looked super slick and have started their campaign strongly. We get to see our girls Saturday prior to the Broncos v Titans mens clash as the girls take on the Tigers.

The Raiders are the smokies for the season and

We are getting to the pointy end of the Telstra premiership and all wins are vital now.

The Warriors are so hard to catch but remain alive and the Storm once again flexed their muscle to keep four points clear of the reigning premiers who looked like they are really kicking into gear with Cleary having a field day scoring 26 points during his clinic.

The Broncos are in disarray. That performance on the weekend was diabolical and that’s not taking anything away from a Bulldogs team who are really flying at the moment sitting in fifth place and looking a very good chance for a top eight spot.

Seibold questioned the HIA protocols and rules after some interesting decisions when the Eagles rattled home to almost catch the Chooks. The concussion procedures are making our game so much more safer and accountable across the board but Seibs might have a fair point about how multiple checks can affect the outcome of a game.

Our Titans went four in a row after looking shaky early coming back from 14-0 down to win 21-14 with the old wily fox Foran steering the ship beautifully.

A massive game this weekend for the Titans

against the big brother Broncos at CBus and the Coasties on form would have to consider themselves a great chance.

Expansion seems to be the talking point of the last few weeks and how it might look and how it might happen.

I like that PVL has said we will be at 20 teams by 2028 fast tracking the last few spots. How the draw looks and what happens here is anyone’s guess but I have to agree with supercoach Ivan that we should have 20 rounds and one game against each team for equality as well as some stand alone origins so the best players are a better chance of being on show every week. I also very much like the idea of extra games in Vegas with the women’s game as well as a Super League contest. I hope it filters down to the grassroots and the concept of 17’s and 19’s origin returns and the Australian Schoolboys head abroad again rather than being stationed in the Pacific of PNG and Fiji.

Two rounds to go in the NRRRL with Ballina safe in top spot. Who joins them and in what position is anyone’s guess. Cudgen will fancy their chances of going back to back as team Ziebell is back together and will cause problems for any team they come up against.

See you at the footy. Quinny

Handy-work at Art Post

By Madeleine Murray

HANDLE WITH CARE, a series of paintings by Michael Willard will be on for six weeks at the Uki Post Office from Thursday, August 1.

Michael, who works as a nurse in the Northern Rivers, has always been fascinated by hands. While looking through a book on still-life painting a couple of years ago, it occurred to Michael that a hand holding a treasured object becomes a form of portraiture. Hands on their own, hands holding precious objects. Apart from a person’s face, their hands are the most expressive part of their body. Hands communicate. They can be brutal, even threatening, or tender and poignant.

He then asked a number of friends to volunteer their hands to be painted holding an object of special significance.

So began an exploration of hands; every nook and cranny, crease and vein. The result is an extraordinary series of intense paintings.

Not all the paintings are of hands holding objects. One is of clasped hands, which could be a gesture of despair. Another, of eyes shyly peeking through fingers.

The Weekly visited Michael, who lives at the end of a steep 600m driveway. The simple wooden house and studio are perched above a spectacular valley filled with massive

trees and birds flitting through the leaves.

“At home, in the lush serenity of Uki, I can move from the creative clutter of my painting studio to the raucous clamour of birdsong and the enclosing forest in an instant,” he said.

“I find this environment incredibly nourishing and inspiring. Introverted by nature, I am so grateful to have effortlessly found a growing circle of fellow creatives and many other friendships in my local village and throughout the Northern Rivers.”

Despite many successful solo and group exhibitions over the past 27 years in Sydney, Michael, like many artists, suffers from procrastination, for which the only cure is an exhibition deadline.

He told the Weekly: “I am very happy to have been given this exhibition as it is the only way to deal with my unrelenting procrastination, which for years has hindered my art-making. I hope this series of painting will inspire an evolving creativity.”

Handle with Care will be on from Thursday, August 1, until Wednesday, September 11, at the Uki Post Office, 1464 Kyogle Road, Uki. The opening with wine and nibbles is at 6pm, Thursday, August 1.

For more info go to artpostuki.com

Michael Willard is a nurse and an artist.

Photo: Madeleine Murray

Monumental painting at Mist

By Madeleine Murray

A DRAMATIC early work by Hobie Porter will be on show at Mist Gallery in Cabarita for the month of August.

The striking 2.4 metre by five-metre painting called Infestation is an ambitious piece which represents the environmental damage wrought by an onslaught of introduced species within our local environment, the Tweed Valley.

T he giant work features rainforest landscapes inspired by the artist’s family home, populated with depictions of exotic fish, cats, foreign flora and refuse such as rusted-out fire buckets.

“Infestation was an important precursor to the work that I’ve become known for because the landscapes I depict are often filled with representations of items that I collect from such places. I tend to dwell

upon the environmental impacts that I see in a postcolonial era,” Hobie told The Weekly.

In mid-1997 Hobie came back from a six-month exchange program to the Pratt institute, New York City, facilitated by Southern Cross University Lismore.

“I returned to Australia to finish my BA Visual Art and knew I wanted to produce a painting that was impactful for our student graduation exhibition,” he said.

“The work contains a myriad of material ranging from oil paint to subway posters. While in NYC, I got into the habit of peeling thickly layered posters off the subway walls to add to my personal collection. I thought of the posters as a raw type of visual and cultural poetry and I started collaging them into my paintings as if they were infiltrating the landscape.”

The painting is multimedia, with a lightbulb, encaustic wax, charcoal, acrylic gel medium and oil paint.

Infestation is now for sale after hanging in collector Phillip Riolo’s Kingscliff real estate office.

Phillip, who is currently downsizing, told The Weekly: “The piece needs to be seen and continue its life in the world. It’s a significant work in Porter’s early career. Hobie’s depiction of the Mt Warning region affected by man’s careless pollution of the rainforest and the ongoing effects of climate change make me feel this is a very important, beautiful painting.”

Infestation will be hanging at Mist Gallery, Cabarita, Shop 1B 51 Tweed Coast Road, Cabarita Beach, for the month of August. For more info, go to mist-gallery. com.auw

Local book launch

FAMILY AND friends joined together at the Salvation Army Community Centre Cafe in Banora Point recently to celebrate the launch of Margaret Flecknoe’s book, ‘Uncertain Years — Surviving the Sisters of Mercy’.

The book has been 25 years the making and is a biography of Margaret’s early years spent in an orphanage in Sydney, after her mother’s ill-health meant she could no longer care for her children at home.

Nothing could prepare Margaret for life in a Catholic orphanage in the 1940s and ‘50s where harsh treatment was the order of the day.

Finally, years later, released from this fearful place, aged fifteen, she came home to a bitter, alcoholic father.

Fortunately, with the help of one of the sisters from the convent, Margaret found employment in a rural setting and started a new life.

Margaret spent most of her life in Sydney, but now lives at Tweed Heads where she is closer to her family.

“This is her first book, a memoir,” close friend and promoter, Francina Flemming told The Weekly.

“She is an avid reader and a compulsive writer. Her other interests include classical music and live theatre.”

Francina said the book is not one of “gloom and despair”, but of staunch friendships, defiance and an indomitable spirit.

“Margaret’s heartfelt writing is punctuated with humour and determination to achieve a better future,” she said.

“It is both a thought-provoking and delightful read, as well as an insight into a previous generation and culture.”

The book launch included readings by Margaret and Mike, a fellow writer from the writing group Margaret attends each week.

As a valued member of the Poets and Writers of the Tweed (PAWOTTs) Margaret also now enjoys writing comedy.

Uncertain Years is available from the author by phoning: 0408 979 441.

Margaret Flecknoe's book launch

Infestation is an early work by artist Hobie Porter

1. What is the oldest team in the NRL? (In the NSWRFL,

2. What year was the answer to question 1 founded? 3. What year did it snow on Mt Warning / Wollumbin?

4. What kind of tree was first logged in the Tweed? 5. What country was Father’s day originally celebrated in?

(8)

Theatres (7)

Class almanac (8)

Warned (7)

Reversed or Diagonal

Chouxbox Eachtoown Farmco

Gelatoco Johnnyfrancos Mockingbird

TRADES AND SERVICES

ARBORCARE IS a local family business run by owner and arborist Clay and his wife Lou. We provide tree trimming, tree removal and arborist services to the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast areas. Clay has over 10 years experience in the arboriculture industry and has worked across Qld, NSW and the Northern Territory. His passion for tree care is second to none and his goal is always the best health outcome for every tree.

Our team also includes a fauna spotter who inspects every tree before work starts, and has the knowledge and skills to safely relocate any wildlife in the tree.

At Arborcare, safety always comes ﬁrst. We will never put ourselves, your property or wildlife at risk of harm. We have a full Safety Management System in place and do risk assessments before every job.

We pride ourselves on always:

• Showing up to quote when we say we will (we know how frustrating it is when this doesn’t happen!)

• Taking the time to understand what results you want, then talking you through the needs of the tree so you understand your options.

• Providing prompt, fair and honest quotes

• Showing up for the job on time, every time

• Completing the work as quoted, with no hidden surprises

• Impeccable site clean-up – you won’t even know we have been there

Call Arborcare on 0491 755 297 for a free quote and advice on the best management options for your trees.

Tweed Valley

MOBILE WELDING

Tweed Valley

Car for Sale

2005 Subaru Impreza RS hatchback white. 2.0 Litre, quad cam,165,000kms Manual transmission, cold air, power steer, airbags,tinted windows,new tyres. Just serviced - timing belt, water pump done. Books, keys & remote. Reg. To oct.24/ $5,750.00 Ono Ph 0407120113

LAST OF THE WAGONS 09 Falcon, S/W, Auto, Books, DA 40 CC, Tow Bar, Roof Racks, Only 262,500km, Dl 16862, Will trade, Taylor Made Cars. 5 Prospero St Murwillumbah. $4,500. Ph: (02) 6672 5454

2008 Toyota Hiace hi top van. Manual. Petrol. 4 new tyres. New rear shocks. Just serviced. 429,00km. $13,000 0433 831 726

Courses

First Aid Courses

HLTAID009

Public Notice

NOTICE OF ABORIGINAL CONSULTATION

25-27 Boyd Street, Tweed Heads

An Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment is proposed for 25-27 Boyd Street, Tweed Heads for works associated with the proposed development of 81 units by Homes NSW (nominated contact Jennifer Bastin, communityengagement@homes.nsw.gov.au (please include subject line: Tweed Heads project – Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment).

Aboriginal people who hold cultural knowledge and wish to be consulted for this assessment are invited to register an expression of interest by 15 August 2024. To register, please email matt@ambs.com.au or by post your letter to Attn: Matt Byron, AMBS Ecology & Heritage, Unit 14, 1 Hordern Place, Camperdown NSW 2050. The consultation is required in accordance with Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements issued for the State Significant Development. The purpose of Aboriginal community consultation in NSW as per Heritage NSW requirements is to assist the applicant in the preparation of the ACHA and the SSD Application, and to assist the Minister for Planning in their consideration and determination of the application.

George Angus Hewer

10/02/1929 - 28/07/2024

Aged 95 years. Late of Murwillumbah, NSW.

Formally of Beenleigh Qld and Otaki New Zealand. Passed away peacefully.

Loved father of Stuart, Andrew, and the late Mark and Ralph. Husband of Margaret.

Cherished grandad of Axle.

A private cremation with interment at Hewer family memorial garden Newhaven Stapylton, Qld.

Cecilia Alice Buchanan

Peacefully at Murwillumbah Greens on 25th July 2024.

Aged 99 years. Formerly of Chillingham.

Dearly loved wife of Ken (dec) and loving mother and mother-in-law of Kenny (dec) & Paula (dec), Lorraine, Gerard & Anne, Phillip & Kathy, Brian & Jeanette. Very much-loved Grandmother & Great Grandmother of her grandchildren.

Family and Friends are warmly invited to a Requiem Mass for Cecilia at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Murwillumbah on Friday 2nd August at 11am followed by Burial at Tweed Valley Cemetery, 813 Eviron Road Duranbah.

BETTY FITZGERALD

Formerly of Kingscliﬀ Passed away peacefully at John Flynn Hospital surrounded by her family 27th July 2024

Aged 89, Wife of Jim Fitzgerald (dec.1991) She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, as she touched many lives with her love, care, generosity, support and wonderful spirit throughout her long life. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a funeral service to celebrate her life on Monday 5th August at 2.30pm at the Tweed Heads Memorial Gardens.

In loving memory

Peter William Buxton

10.3.1954 ~ 24.7.2024

Aged 70, lifelong Chinderah local

Peter is survived by his two children; Katie and Simon, and many family and friends.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend a service in celebration of Peter’s life which will be held at St Anthony’s Catholic Church, Kingscliff on Saturday 3rd August 2024 at 10am followed by burial at Tweed Heads Lawn Cemetery. Peter will be sadly missed, but never forgotten.

Tweed Heads Ph: (07) 5599 1500

2/9/1947 - 28/6/2009

Marlene Elizabeth GILHOLME 18/7/2024