Tweed Valley Weekly, October 20, 2022

New

By Yvonne Gardiner

CRABBES CREEK, Burringbar and Mooball now have access to an early warning system developed by the SES, Tweed Shire Council and local residents, which will come as welcome news with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting a wetter than average spring and summer.

Reg Robinson has lived in Crabbes Creek for 35 years. He’s vice-president of the community hall and president of the CRT (Community Resilience Team).

“We do get a lot of flooding in the school, the shop and four or five houses go under,” he said.

“When it starts to flood, the locals band together. There’s a lot of help within the community.

“The two big floods this year have been the biggest I’ve seen.

‘The road got washed away on the third bridge.

“The locals banded together to get some gravel and fixed it.”

A problem in the last flood was the absence of phone or internet connection at Crabbes Creek.

The local hall helped out

with a satellite communication system.

“Our biggest issue is communication,” Reg said.

“Another thing we’re trying, we’re looking at putting a flood camera on the first bridge.

“We’re trying to get something done in the creeks to clean them out properly.”

Residents of Burringbar, Mooball and Crabbes Creek are urged to register to receive flash flood alerts via SMS, email and recorded voice calls (landline) for free, ahead of the coming wet season.

SES Murwillumbah Unit Commander Inspector Grant ‘Jack’ Frost said it was critical

that  residents were prepared in case of another flood.

“It’s called a flash flood for a reason; it’s really quick,” he said. “Because it’s so quick, our warning systems can’t keep up with it.”

Tweed Shire Council, with assistance from the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, NSW SES and other government agencies, launched the new automated flash flood alert system for the villages Thursday, October 13, following a successful trial last summer.

TSC’s flooding and stormwater engineer Leon McLean said previous events

and council’s flood risk management studies had shown the areas covered were subject to flash flooding with little to no warning.

“The small Burringbar Creek and Crabbes Creek catchment areas are not covered by the Bureau of Meteorology’s (BOM) flood warnings, as the time between rainfall and flooding is too short,” he said.

Tweed Mayor Chris Cherry said being able to know when evacuation paths were likely to be cut in these small catchments was critical.

“So these flood alerts, with specific information about what roads are compromised and where, is a really helpful tool for knowing whether you can evacuate or reach your home safely if you are out at the time,” she said.

The new alert system was created in collaboration with officers from TSC, SES, BOM and the Department of Planning and Environment, and funded under the NSW and Australian Government’s Natural Disaster Resilience Program.

To register for free flash flood alerts, visit  tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-alert.

Resilient Uki preparing for “all hazards”

By Madeleine Murray

UKI RESIDENTS have been working hard to make the community more di saster-ready, with $20,000 in grants and donations of communication equipment including Star Links from Elon Musk.

President of the recently incorporat ed non-profit association Resilient Uki (RUKI) Melanie Bloor (right) said the group was “born out of an urge to prepare Uki for ‘all hazards’.

“There was a lot of chaos in the flood response six months ago and we need to rectify that for next time,” Mel told The Weekly.

“We identified the best way to do that was to build capacity within our own com munity, so that we didn’t need to rely on people from the outside to rescue us.”

Uki and surrounds and other commu nities were cut off in critical places by landslides and road damage with some places like Byrrill Creek cut off for weeks.

“We decided the best way was to help neighbours to know neighbours,” Mel said.

“Most of the help actually came from surrounding people.

“We feel that building a culture of kind ness and connection, with some capaci ty-building and resourcing laid on top of that, is our best strategy moving into an uncertain climate change future.”

The Community Wellbeing and Resilience Flood Re covery Grant (funded by Healthy North Coast through the North Coast PHN Program) enabled RUKI to hire a Marlena Basser, a Project Leader on the RUKI Neighbourhoods Project. “The vision is to support 12 neighbourhoods in and around the Uki district to strengthen their capacity to sup port themselves when disaster strikes,” Marlena said.

“Each one will have a coordinator who will be connected to each other through their Red Cross CRT.

“We will work with neighbourhoods

from Mt Burrell to Mt Warning.

“We hope to become a better prepared and resilient community, well equipped and confident to look after ourselves be fore, during and after a natural disaster.”

RUKI won equipment grants as the loss of power and internet seriously hindered the flood response.

“We identified communi cation as our top priori ty,” Mel said.

“We have secured $20,000 worth of UHF radios.

“The Red Cross also donated a lot of radi os, and the Tweed Shire Council has helped Byrrill Creek with a very sophisti cated comms network, as it is particularly vulnerable out there.

“Elon Musk’s SpaceX has donated Star Links, which will be set up to give us sat ellite internet.

“We’re learning from what we went through in the last flood, building our knowledge and our resources.”

Crabbes Creek CRT president Reg Robinson (left) and Burringbar Community Association president Phil Taylor. Mel Bloor

Why You Need Solar & Batteries Now!

Power Prices Rise by 18%

Australian electricity prices have risen by up to 18.3 per cent under a decision by the Australian Energy Regulator due to increased cost of generation due to global rises in coal and gas prices. The increases, which came into effect from July, amount to more than $250 a year based on ACCC figures putting the average residential electricity bill at $1,434.

Feed in Tariffs for Solar Crash

Electricity retailers are in a price squeeze and have slashed the amount they pay for your excess solar, now paying zero - 8c per kWh, down from the 21c we were paid in 2020. Unless you have solar and batteries you are facing serious increases in energy costs. 888 Solar Tek have installed hundreds of solar battery systems in the last 8 years and can help you with great deals on the most reliable and long lasting solar batteries in Australia.

In praise of Diana

Dave Lincoln’s letter, TW 29/9, Time to Let Diana Rest, is extremely insensitive in my opinion.

The evil the men do lives after them and the good is often interred with their bones. Prince Charles behaviour towards his wife was not ideal from the beginning. Diana’s role was to produce children, nothing more. Charles had his mistress Camilla before, during and after the marriage.

Diana’s eating disorder and mental health were the result of Charles and Camilla’s behaviour.

Harry’s defence of his mother is courageous. His grieving will take a lot of time and counselling before he’s finds peace. Emotional abuse can be far more damaging than physical violence.

Great behaviour for the Head of the Church of England!

Will Diana’s legacy live on long after King Charles?

James King, Cudgen

Great local surgery

Recently I had an operation in the Murwillumbah District Hospital. Two weeks before the op, I had a call from the hospital to check on my health status and explain the procedure. The admission, pre-op and the actual operation were absolutely first-class.

The surgeon, Dr Dilip Gahankari, a specialist from the Gold Coast, was assisted by a local doctor from the Main Street Medical Centre, as well as two anaesthetists and nurses from the hospital. Their dedication and attention to detail was very satisfying.

There should be no reason why anyone would have second thoughts about having an operation at the Murwillumbah District Hospital.

Barry Lack, Murwillumbah

Are we the missing link?

I recently read in the Nimbin Good Times how several local railway companies are working together to get a solar powered train running from Bangalow to Mullumbimby.

As reported in The Weekly, local MP Geoff Provest is spending $1 million surveying the best route to get the rail trail from Murwillumbah to Tweed Heads.

Gold Coast Lite Rail has plans to extend the line to South Tweed Banora Point after it gets the train into Coolangatta.

So what the hell is going on in Tweed Shire? Do the three shire leaders not talk to each other?

I have no objection to the bike or walking trail but why pull the tracks up when all around the Tweed is being extended? We will be known as the missing link.

David McCabe, Stokers Siding Putin response

If Memkit Price from Uki thinks that Putin is so great, why doesn’t she consider moving to Russia?

I’m sure her hero would welcome her and recruit her into the Russian army where she could then go and join the ‘special military operation’.

A man who didn’t want to serve in Putin’s special military operation and die killing innocent civilians in Ukraine, recently tried to flee Russia over the border to Georgia.

The queue of cars was 20km long. He decided to ride his bicycle over the border. A guard stopped him, but the man offered him a bribe of 8000 roubles ($A200).

After arriving in Georgia, he took a flight to Istanbul, where he is now.

According to the Aljazeera website, Georgian officials say more than 10,000 Russians are crossing the border each day and images widely shared on social media show lines of cars snaking towards Georgia and Mongolia.

Perhaps Memkit Prince would like to buck the trend and cross the other way, from Georgia into Russia.

I’m sure the queue won’t be very long.

M. Cordeaux, Tweed Heads

Weird Mob #3

I am glad my “weird mob” letter “amused” the anonymous Duranbah correspondent who expanded on the theme and handed the baton back, so here are some more inconsistencies: we want no pesticides in our food nor grubs either, no methane-producing animals but their manure and blood ‘n bone for our organic gardens, no fossil fueled or nuclear energy but cheap and reliable power.

We move to the country, then complain about farm sprays, take the high moral ground, and put agenda before truth; the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) strictly regulates and closely monitors all chemicals used and we export two thirds of our food.

The Chinese clamor for it, until we question the origin of COVID-19.

We worry about climate change impacting the poor, so we subsidise solar systems and EVs they can’t afford.

We destabilise the grid with intermittent unreliable sources, forcing coal-fired stations to run 24/7 to fill the gaps, then say coal is more expensive. Only gas (or diesel) can cope with the intermittency of renewables, so the demand goes up. We blame the war in Ukraine, but the price of gas (LNG) went up 68 percent in January, a month before the war began, thanks to a European wind-drought. Poor Europeans are burning wood and dung to keep warm while “clean green” entrepreneurs and Chinese manufacturers laugh all the way to the bank. That is not weird, it’s immoral.

D Weston Allen, Cudgen

Uki Convent

Jo Kennett’s story on the Iconic Uki Convent (Oct. 6) brought back many fond memories.

I need to correct one small inaccuracy, however, the Convent itself was never used as a school classroom.

Test Drive a Nissan Leaf EV! We have 24, 30 & 40 kWh cars at half the new price.

The Best Technology in Solar Power, Off Grid, Residential & Business

It housed the good St. Joseph Nuns and up to 12 girl student boarders. The Music Room was the only area accessible to day students.

The school building (St. Columba’s ) was situated on the western side of the church. After the closure of the school in the mid sixties it was transported to Kingscliff where it formed the first classroom for the new St.Anthony’s Parish School. Unlike the convent, it remained in the “ family” – so to speak!

Barbara Cook, Murwillumbah.

Thank you

I would like to say thank you to the many people who stopped to ask if I needed help when my car broke down on Elrond Drive Kingscliff on Friday, October 14.

A very special thanks to the young lady who went back to her parents’ house and came back with water and some fruit. Another gentleman came back with a bottle of cold water.

I had an 80-minute wait for a tow truck in the heat of the day. The driver of the tow truck was very helpful organising a place to make the necessary repairs to my car and taking me home, so a big thanks to him as well. Thank you all. It is so nice to know that there are so many caring people in this community.

Wendy MacTaggart, Kingscliff

Weird world indeed

The world is, as Wes Allen so rightly describes it (TW 6-10), weird indeed.

Weirdest of all is the likelihood that for many of the reasons Dr Allen mentions, and more, humans may well become the first species to cognitively steer itself to extinction, but not before driving a large proportion of our iconic plants and animals to the same fate.

The floods, fires and famines currently challenging mankind are undoubtedly linked to climate

change to which mans’ contribution started at least 50 years ago and continues unabated.

It was recently estimated that, by volume, there may now be more plastic in our oceans than fish yet there are currently more factories producing plastic product than ever before.

In the 24 years I’ve lived in Kingscliff, the small native wrens, finches and even kookaburras have entirely disappeared from our garden.

We now have three generations of magpies, noisy miners, and even bush turkeys knocking on our front door.

All are accomplished hunters and have always been present in the adjoining bushland; where has their food gone?

Those who seriously believe that when earth is finally barren we may all depart to live on Mars or the Moon should start leaving their small change for the Tooth Fairy.

How many of the world’s population could be housed in the entirely artificial environment of inflatable bubble cities, never able to venture outside except in a spacesuit?

Any small-scale practical application of this concept is at least 50 to 100 years away.

It’s estimated that the dinosaurs existed for at least 50 to 60 million years and that their extinction, with all they battled, took several million. It appears doubtful that humans will exist on earth for even half a million years.

Jeremy Cornford, Kingscliff

Letter winner

Last week we printed the wrong winner for the best letter. It was Murray Lees.

Please note

must

may

for

Send your letters to editor@theweekly. net.au.

Tough choices: rent or food?

By Jo Kennett

as

facing

food and rent stress skyrockets.

Many tenants are being told their landlords want to renovate and are being given notice to vacate their homes, with rents rising significantly once they move out.

Pottsville Beach Neighbour hood Centre (PBNC) manag er Angella Maxwell said she had recently spoken with one woman who was back living in her car again after several attempts to try to secure a long-term lease.

“After her previous long lease on the Tweed Coast was not renewed due to the own ers needing to renovate, she had to travel away from her family, friends and workplace to a foreign community in a rural Queensland area where rent was more affordable,” Angela said.

“Her six-month lease there was not renewed because the owners needed to - you guessed it - renovate the property.

“She moved back here to re unite with family, friends and work opportunities and after quite a long time car-seat surf ing, she finally secured another property on a six-month lease that was not renewed for the same reason.

“She told me that things have changed from a housing shortage crisis here to a mega-crisis situation.”

Angela said that the constant shifting had cost the woman a lot of money including costs associated with removalists and storing her belongings.

“She said that other options like short-term house and pet-sitting have changed so now the person who is want ing to do the sitting is required to pay a substantial amount of rent to the owners for the priv ilege of minding someone’s home and pets,” Angela said.

“Of course this housing shortage and increased home lessness is very widespread and has been exacerbated by the reduction of homes avail able for rent due to widespread flood-damage and the number of flood-impacted people vying for a place to live, competing with those who were already

without a place to call home before the floods.

“Suffice it to say, it’s crazy tough for people sleeping rough.”

Angela said that We are very busy here and Letechia’s role is so very important in our response to myriad requests for support.

The centre’s Community Ca pacity Workers Letechia Lucas provides assisted referral and material aid to people who are at risk of homelessness or who are currently without a home, a role Angela said is crucial in their response to “myriad requests for support.”

“A sharp and sustained de mand for material aid and other support services at Pottsville Beach Neighbour hood Centre has meant that community capacity workers have been very busy assisting an increasing number of cli ents who are facing tough de

cisions week to week; pay rent or buy food,” Letechia said.

“One client in her seventies described how she is facing homelessness after her rent al unit was flooded in the February/March disaster.

“After six months of stay ing with friends, the landlord recently told her the unit is being renovated, with the rent increasing so dramatically she can no longer afford to live in the place she has called home for over 20 years.

“Other clients, particularly sole parents and older people living alone, are reporting almost their entire disposable income is being spent on rent alone, leaving them without money for food, petrol, bills and other basics.

“Families are under finan cial pressure to keep up with rent increases to stay in the area that they work in, where their children go to school and where their community connections for health and wellbeing are located.”

PBNC has increased its ca pacity to respond to people im pacted by the floods through its new Recovery Support Service.

“We signed the two-year con tract in mid-July and have been recruiting and delivering ser vices ever since,” Angela said. For more info, go to page https://www.pbnc.org.au/re covery-support-service/ Scroll down to open up the PDF flyer.

PBNC Manager Angela Maxwell (left) with Letechia Lucas, PBNC Community Capacity Worker

Businesses warned against “greenwashing”

Businesses have been warned by corporate and consumer watchdogs they will have to be ready to substantiate any environmental claims they make when marketing their goods and services, or face severe fines under consumer law.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said it is actively targeting “greenwashing” this year, warning that businesses which make false or misleading claims on the climate benefits of their products or activities undermine consumer trust and confidence in the market.

ACCC deputy chair Delia Rickard said the ACCC is hearing growing concerns that some businesses are falsely promoting environmental or green credentials to capitalise on changing consumer preferences.

“Broad terms like ‘environmentally friendly’, ‘green’, or ‘sustainable’ have limited value and may mislead consumers, as they rarely provide enough information about what that exactly means in terms of the product or service consumers are considering purchasing,” Ms Rickard said.

“It is important that businesses can back up the claims they are making, whether through reliable scientific reports, transparent supply chain information, reputable third-party certification, or other forms of evidence. Where we have concerns, we will be asking businesses to substantiate their claims.

“The ACCC won’t hesitate to take enforcement action where we see that consumers are being misled or deceived by green claims,” Ms Rickard said.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission also said it was cracking down on investor groups that make misleading “greenwashing” claims.

ASIC defined greenwashing as “the practice of misrepresenting the extent to which a financial product or investment strategy is environmentally friendly, sustainable or ethical”.

Environmental groups are also taking court action against corporations they claim are greenwashing.

Business lawyer Geoff Baldwin at Stacks Law Firm said businesses should seek legal advice to ensure their public statements on their environmental credentials can stand up to the scrutiny of authorities like the ACCC.

“Penalties under consumer law for making false or misleading claims can be extremely high,” Mr Baldwin said.

“The Federal Court imposed a $44.7 million fine against travel group Trivago for making false claims in its advertising. Uber faces a $26 million fine for misleading customers on fares.”

Tougher penalties for breaching consumer law were contained in the Treasury Laws Amendment (2018 Measures No. 3) Act.

It increases the maximum penalty under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 for a company breaching relevant consumer laws, from $1.1 million, up to whichever is the greater among the following: $10 million; three times the value of the benefit obtained from the offence; or ten per cent of group turnover in the previous 12 months.

The penalty that can be imposed on individuals rises from $220,000 to $500,000 per breach.

Responsibility for comment is taken by Stacks Law Firm

Housebreak suspect arrest

By Madeleine Murray

A MAN has been charged with several offences after police seized housebreaking implements, mask, cash, drugs and a knife at Tweed Heads.

Around 3:30am on Saturday, October 15, police spoke with a man seated in a car at a Tweed Heads shopping carpark.

Police allegedly found a knife concealed under the driver’s seat, and a backpack containing bolt cutters, snips, gloves and a white mask (pictured).

A search of the man located a small quantity of cannabis, and a sum of cash suspected of being unlawfully obtained.

The man was arrested and conveyed to Tweed Heads Police Station where he was charged with possession of a prohibited drug, custody of a knife in a public place and goods in custody reasonably suspected of being unlawfully obtained.

The housebreaking implements and mask will be subjected to forensic analysis and further investigation.

The 20-year-old Surfers Paradise man was granted strict conditional Police bail and will appear before Tweed Heads Local Court on November 7, 2022.

Child assault case in court

A 99-YEAR-OLD Tweed Heads man has appeared in court charged with touching a minor and been banned from having contact with the child.

Leonard Henry Forden, 99, is accused of touching the ten-

year-old girl at Tweed Heads on December 14, 2021.

The case was heard on October 14 at Tweed Heads Local Court.

Forden was placed on bail with a condition he cannot be

in the company of any young person unless a responsible person is present.

He is not to have any contact with the victim or anyone they have a domestic relationship with “by any means”.

The elderly man did not appear in court.

The case has been adjourned awaiting an application under mental health legislation. The case is set to be heard again for committal on November 18.

Murbah Service Centre relocated

By Jo Kennett

MURWILLUMBAH SERVICE Centre is temporarily closed for repair work following damage from flooding events earlier in the year.

Service NSW Regional Manager Jeremy Conlon said from Monday, October 17, customers can visit a temporary Service Centre at the Murwillumbah Civic and Cultural Centre on

10-14 Tumbulgum Road to ensure continuity of services for the community.

“Remediation work is required at Murwillumbah Service Centre following a recent inspection of the facility which found previous water damage has impacted the building,” Mr Conlon said.

“A temporary Service Centre has been set up to ensure locals can still continue to carry out important transactions and access information as required.

“The safety of staff and customers is our priority. The repair work could close the centre for up to six months.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate the community’s patience while the work is completed.

“The temporary Service Centre will have the same opening hours as the current Service Centre, 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday.

“The temporary facility will

continue to provide locals with access to more than 1000 NSW Government transactions.

“Our staff look forward to continuing to serve the community.”

Customers can also complete transactions via the Service NSW website, which is service.nsw.gov.au, by calling 13 77 88 or visiting Tweed Heads Service Centre, which is about a 30-minute drive from Murwillumbah.

Electric, Gas,

David Crossan Lawyer

Drive

Tweed Link

New flash flood alert service goes live

Residents of Burringbar, Mooball and Crabbes Creek are being urged to register to receive flash flood alerts via SMS, email and recorded voice calls (landline) for free, ahead of the coming wet season.

Council, with assistance from the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, NSW State Emergency Service (SES) and other government agencies, has launched a new automated flash flood alert system for the villages, following a successful trial last summer.

Council Engineer – Flooding and Stormwater Leon McLean said previous events and Council’s flood risk management studies have shown these areas were subject to flash flooding with little to no warning.

“The small Burringbar Creek and Crabbes Creek catchments are not covered by Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) flood warnings, as the time between rainfall and flooding is too short,” Mr McLean said.

“The new Burringbar and Crabbes Creeks flash flood alert service is an automated system that will provide residents with advanced notice of approaching floods.

“The new early alert system was developed following extensive consultation with local residents and lead agencies and we are grateful

for everyone’s input on this critical service.”

The system has 2 main components: flood forecasting and alert distribution.

The flood forecasting system involves a cloud-based computer system, running continuously, that accepts data from local rain and stream gauges and combines this with various BOM prediction products to forecast flooding in the near future.

The forecasting system is being monitored at all times by Council’s alerting partner, Early Warning Network.

When flood forecasts exceed certain thresholds, the predictions will be verified and an alert will be distributed to the community, SES and Council advising of approaching flooding, the expected timeframe and magnitude at key locations.

The system was created in collaboration with officers from Council, SES, BOM and the Department of Planning and Environment and funded under the NSW and Australian Government's Natural Disaster Resilience Program.

Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-alert to register for the free flash flood alerts.

Early start to mosquito season this year

Recent heavy rains and localised flooding has meant an early start to mosquito season this year, as the insects find ample conditions to breed and flourish.

With their pesky buzzing and irritating bites, mosquitos can be a real nuisance, although it is the diseases that mosquitos carry that are the real problem.

Mosquitos can carry diseases such as Ross River and Barmah Forest Virus. Unfortunately for our furry friends, they can also spread heartworm larvae which can infect dogs.

Usually, most cases of mosquito-borne diseases are reported in late summer and early autumn, although the wetter conditions of late make our region the perfect breeding ground for mosquitos and mosquito-bred diseases.

There are some simple steps you can take to keep you and your family mosquito safe:

• Empty all water containers around the home where mosquitoes could breed – plant bases, buckets, pet bowls and roof gutters.

• Avoid going outdoors during peak mosquito times at dawn and

dusk or close to wetland and bushland areas.

• Wear long sleeves and pants outdoors (reduce skin exposure) and wear shoes and socks.

• Apply repellent to all exposed skin. Use those that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus which are the most effective.

• Use mosquito coils in combination with topical insect repellents.

• Reapply repellent after swimming or perspiring (apply sunscreen first, then repellent).

• Most repellents are safe for children aged three months and older, although some are only for children aged 12 months and up. Always check the product. Infants less than three months can be protected with mosquito netting.

Also remember to check your water tank to make sure it’s sealed and secure and not letting them inside.

If we all do our bit in our own backyard, together we can protect our loved ones and work together to keep our community safe.

For more info about how we can tackle mosquitos together, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/mosquitoes-midges

Mooball Creek stabilisation

Here’s some good news for Pottsville residents.

Council is undertaking bank stabilisation work at 3 sites along the eastern side of Mooball Creek at Pottsville over the next few weeks.

Access points along the popular foreshore are eroding and need to be stabilised with rock to improve safety and waterway health.

Failing timber retaining walls and old steps will be removed at 2 sites, and 3 new sets of stairs will be installed after works have been completed. Work is expected to take up to 4 weeks.

The project is jointly funded by Council and the NSW Government Department of Planning and Environment Coastal and Estuary Grants Program.

Find out more about how Council looks after our rivers and creeks at tweed.nsw.gov.au/rivers-creeks

Last week we each used 159L a day

Anchorage Island Harbour boardwalk repair

Work has commenced on the next stage of the project at Anchorage Island Harbour which will involve major repairs to the Jetties Boardwalk.

Repairs will include the removal and replacement of the existing structure.

This upgrade is essential to ensure that the foreshore remains structurally sound and safe for the Tweed community.

Work on the Jetties Boardwalk is expected to be completed in December at which point repairs will commence on the Rotunda Boardwalk, the final stage of the project.

Further information about the project is on the Your Say Tweed project page at yoursaytweed.com.au/anchorage-islands

Have we heard you right?

Tweed residents are invited to join a series of Community Conversations on 2 and 3 November to learn more and share their thoughts about key population, housing and employment issues and opportunities facing the Tweed Shire over the next 20 years.

In August and September, the community shared their thoughts on what is important to them when it comes to housing and employment opportunities in the Tweed.

Now, a draft Issues Paper will present the key findings from the early-stage community consultation, as well as a background review of the current planning and policy context and demographic and employment data.

The draft Issues Paper, on exhibition from Tuesday 25 October, will provide an important evidence base that will establish the key population and employment growth issues, challenges and opportunities facing the Tweed Shire over the next 20 years. It will set the direction for the next phases of preparing the Tweed Growth Management and Housing Strategy do Council can plan ahead so the Tweed is ready for the future.

To learn more and to register to attend a Community Conversation visit yoursaytweed.com.au/growth-management-and-housing-strategy

Tour Clarrie Hall Dam on Saturday

This week is Water Week throughout Australia and to celebrate, Council is holding a tour of Clarrie Hall Dam this Saturday, 22 October 2022 at 1 pm.

Come along and see how the dam operates.

Head to clarriehalldamtour.eventbrite.com.au to reserve your spot. Be quick, there are just 30 places available.

Clarrie Hall Dam is built to store water, helping secure the Tweed’s water supply.

Find out how the dam keeps the river flowing when water levels are low.

Enjoy some fresh air and take in the dam’s scenic surrounds.

A

Tweed Shire Council wishes to recognise the generations of the local Aboriginal people of the

Nation who

needs from the

President Crabbes Creek Community Resilience Group Reg Robinson and President Burringbar Community Resilience Group Phil Taylor at the launch of the new flash flood alert system at Crabbes Creek.

One of the degraded sections of retaining wall along Mooball Creek at Pottsville to be repaired.

Aerial image showing Jetties Boardwalk site. Materials laydown area will be on the grass at the western end of the boardwalk (red circled area).

If you couldn’t make it to the August tour run for Local Government Week, reserve your spot for this Saturday afternoon’s event.

Flood recovery update – 19 October 2022

Trade and industry information session

The Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation (NRRC) is holding an information session for local trades and industry focused on the repair, rebuild and reconstruction of the region following the floods of 2022.

The session is aimed at infrastructure, trades and industry professionals and training, skills and workforce service providers.

The event will be held at the Tweed South Sports Club on Thursday 27 October from 4:30 to 7 pm. Register at eventbrite.com/e/industryinformation-session-tickets-428229986417

Find out more

Below are just some of the latest updates on our flood recovery works on our roads. Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-recovery-update and tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-recovery-works where you’ll find a lot more information.

Scenic Drive

Contractor Australian Marine and Civil Pty Ltd (AMC), has opened one lane under traffic control after completing initial stabilisation works on the main landslip. There are no vehicle load limits in place.

Traffic controllers will monitor flows and meet the needs of peak demand times so please be patient and allow extra time for travel.

AMC has completed the first stage of the foundation preparation and are ready to pour the footing this week. Boxing works and reinforcement have been prepared and now just waiting for concrete.

AMC plan to start laying retaining wall blocks this week and back fill will commence the week after.

Motorists are advised to expect extended delays between 9 am and 3 pm as contractors bring in material and equipment.

Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-recovery-works for more information on these and other repairs.

Tyalgum Road

The road slip at Tyalgum is the largest and most complicated item on Council’s Flood recovery roads list.

The geotechnical reports Council received in September have been included in the Design and Construct bundle of works for repairs to the largest road slips around the shire.

Short-listed construction contractors are currently pricing up Concept designs with the aim of having designs and tender pricing to Council by late November.

Once designs are complete, Council will select the most suitable contractor to carry out the work, with works expected to start on site in mid 2023.

Limpinwood Road

The geotechnical reports Council received last month have been included in the Design and Construct bundle of works for repairs to the largest road slips around the shire.

This includes the slips near Boxsell Road and Charbray Place.

Short-listed construction contractors are currently pricing Concept designs with the aim of having designs and tender pricing to Council by December. Once designs are complete, Council will select the most suitable contractor to carry out the work.

Transport for NSW has confirmed in principle funding approval to cover the cost of repairs.

Patching works have been carried out to repair minor damage.

Zara Road

Contractors have completed road reconstruction along Zara Road between Bald Mountain Road and Astron Road.

The works included road pavement stabilisation and application of bitumen seal however line marking, adjustment to guardrail and some debris removal is still required to be undertaken in the specific area.

These works will be done under traffic control, but delays will be minimal when underway. Please follow electronic roadworks signage for up-to-date information.

Numinbah Road

As part of our commitment to provide safe and more resilient roads and to address community concerns about road conditions, Council is continuing with flood recovery works on Numinbah Road between Murwillumbah and Chillingham.

Road reconstruction works between Chillingham village and Chilcotts Road has been completed to a 650-metre section following road stabilisation and sealing. The flood recovery works is the first of a rolling program targeting 3 of the worst sections of Numinbah Road.

Other works planned include pavement reconstruction works near Marken Place, which will take about 4 weeks (weather permitting).

When completed, crews will move on to the section of road near Crooks Valley Road and this will take about 8 weeks to complete.

While we’re not expecting to close these sections of road, there will be lane closures which may cause 5 to 10 minute delays.

Transport for NSW is also planning repair and maintenance works on Korns Bridge next month.

Flood recovery engineering support for Northern Rivers residents

Volunteer groups Holding Hands Underground (HHUG) and Engineers Without Borders (EWB) have partnered to provide Northern Rivers residents impacted by recent floods with engineering support.

The aim is to provide support to as many landowners as possible who are not covered by insurance and their issue isn’t subject to a decision or action by an authority, namely local or state government.

The support will be in the form of free engineering assessments of houses, causeways, roads, landslides and waterways on private properties and providing reports detailing recommendations.

The project will prioritise residents who are experiencing financial hardship.

This is the first time Engineers Without Borders has worked in a flood disaster zone in Australia. It is currently a volunteer-run initiative which is in its pilot phase however, it is hoped this project will create a strong model for Engineers Without Borders to mobilise across Australia in future natural disasters.

Engineers Without Borders is looking for professional engineers with a background in civil, structural, geo-technical engineering and/or program management to join them in a volunteering capacity.

Landowner’s can request support via an online form. Go to ‘engineering support’ at hhug.org.au where you can check eligibility for the program and fill out the online Community Engineering Support form.

Weed Biosecurity: High-risk weeds in fodder

Did you know?

➡ Our region is currently under serious threat from the introduction of high-risk weeds. High-risk weeds can travel in feed and fodder and may be new to our region.

➡ Rous County Council’s Weed Biosecurity team has several dedicated and knowledgeable officers who are working across our region every day, supporting Far North Coast residents with identification and control advice for priority weeds.

➡ Everyone has a weed biosecurity duty! Everyone can play a part in keeping our region safe from high-risk weeds and new weed threats.

Since the devastating flooding our region experienced earlier this year, fodder has been kindly donated to local landholders, coming in by the truck load from all around the country. Unfortunately, the movement of fodder to our area has significantly increased the risk of new weed incursions.

If you have received fodder recently – for example, hay, grain, silage, and pelleted foods – weed seed or plant fragments may have made their way onto your property. Let’s be vigilant. Notify our Weed Biosecurity team if you see unusual weeds pop up in high traffic zones such as paddocks, livestock feeders, or where you’ve been throwing hay. You could stop a significant weed biosecurity threat in its tracks by alerting a Biosecurity Officer of your sighting today.

On our radar at the moment are two high-risk weeds that may be travelling in fodder: Parthenium weed (Parthenium hysterophorus) and Black knapweed (Centaurea × moncktonii).

Familiarise yourself with these weeds and other priority weeds via the Rous County Council weeds resources page at rous.nsw.gov.au/weed-resources or the Department of Primary Industries High Risk Weeds page at dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/feed-and-fodder/managing-biosecurity/high-risk-weeds

For assistance in identifying a weed or to report a weed go to rous.nsw.gov.au/report-a-weed or call us on 02 6623 3800.

Level 4, 218–232 Molesworth Street, Lismore NSW 2480

Box 230, Lismore NSW 2480

02 6623 3800

council@rous.nsw.gov.au

www.rous.nsw.gov.au

Scenic Drive is now open with a temporary one-lane access to all vehicles.

Engineers Without Borders volunteer Dominic Cavenough assessing a flood damaged crossing at Rowlands Creek.

Parthenium weed (Parthenium hysterophorus)

Black Knapweed (Centaurea × moncktonii)

Dry Dock Road boat ramp repairs

Maintenance

the long-term

Weather permitting, the ramp should reopen on Saturday 22 October. To

visit

Council notice

In accordance with section 128 of the Roads Act 1993 and clause 69 of the Roads Regulation 2018, Tweed Shire Council gives notice of its intention to grant a permit for the erection of a public gate over Council public road as follows: Road: Part unnamed road reserve adjacent to 37 Carraboi Terrace, Tyalgum (Lot 2 DP791233), north of the Oxley River and Tyalgum weir. Any person may make submissions to the Tweed Shire Council with respect to the proposed public gate. Any such submissions should be made in writing, addressed to the General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816, Murwillumbah, NSW 2484, or by email tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au within 28 days from publication of this notice.

say

Development Application determinations

Application details

Approved

DA21/1047 – Carport, shed and covered entry Lot 1097 DP 31968, No. 75 McAllisters Road, Bilambil Heights

DA22/0086 – Alterations and additions to dwelling Lot 1 DP 1259107, No. 6082 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar

DA22/0370 – Dwelling with double garage and covered outdoor room Lot 13 DP 1265836, Bakers Road, Byangum

DA21/0998 – Alterations and additions to dwelling including 1.8 m high front fence and 1.5 m side boundary fence.

Lot 72 DP 1027531, No. 12 Bozier Court, Casuarina

DA21/1022 – Two storey dwelling with a basement and swimming pool Lot 65 DP 1031933, No. 25 Beech Lane, Casuarina

DA22/0131 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including carport and in-ground swimming pool Lot 67 DP 1031933, No. 29 Beech Lane, Casuarina

DA22/0568 – In-ground swimming pool Lot 139 DP 1201995, No. 22 Dianella Drive, Casuarina

DA22/0595 – In-ground swimming pool Lot 30 DP 786456, No. 19 Kestral Place, Clothiers Creek

DA22/0496 – In-ground swimming pool Lot 2 DP 1258797, No. 14 Hungerford Lane, Kingscliff

DA22/0476 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling Lot 3 DP 847438, No. 98 Overall Drive, Pottsville

DA22/0134 – Carport and 1.8 m high front fence within the front building line

Lot 9 DP 243479, No. 50 Ducat Street, Tweed Heads

DA22/0387 – In-ground swimming pool Lot 2 SP 16692, Unit 2/No. 29 Meridian Way, Tweed Heads

The above development determinations are available for public

of charge at the Planning and Regulation Division, Murwillumbah Civic Centre, during ordinary office hours or viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au

Current vacancies

Subscribe

Programmed, in partnership with Tweed Shire Council, has opportunities for Apprenticeships commencing January 2023 in Tweed Heads, Murwillumbah, Cabarita and Chinderah.

Kick start your career in the following trades:

• Electrical Apprenticeship

• Parks and Gardens Apprenticeship

• Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Apprenticeship

• Arboriculture Traineeship

Be rewarded with:

• Paid full-time wages

• 4 weeks annual leave per year

• Certificate III level qualification training

• PPE and uniform supplied

• Tools all provided on the job

Applications close 7th November 2022 at 2.00pm AEST.

Scan the QR code to apply, or find out more at info.programmed.com.au/tweedshirecouncil or call 1300 440 784

Development proposal for public comment

Any

Job Vacancy

email at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe

WATER WEEK 2 Check when

at tweed.nsw.gov.au/meter-reading

However,

Please note: Requirements regarding Disclosure of Political Gifts and Donations

A disclosure is required to be

Further information regarding

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

Flood appeal raises $80,230

THANKS TO the incredible generosity of Tweed residents and businesses more than $80,230 has been raised for the Together Tweed Mayoral Flood Appeal 2022.

The appeal, launched on March 21 following the re cord flood of February-March which devastated much of the Tweed, has now closed and the last round of funds distributed to the nominated groups.

Council resolved in March to distribute up to $20,000 to the Murwillumbah Community Centre for the purchase of a new bus, and up to $20,000 towards vital communications equipment for isolated com munities in the Tweed.

Council also resolved that the balance of funds raised would be distributed equally between The Family Centre, the Northern Rivers Commu nity Foundation (NRCF) and local units of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES).

Each of these three organisations will receive $13,410 after the final tally was made this week.

Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry said she had been over whelmed by the generosity of residents and businesses who had contributed so kindly towards the appeal.

“From film studios to sport ing legends, actors, local busi nesses, community groups and big-hearted individuals, I thank each and every one of you for your effort and kind

ness in donating to the To gether Tweed Mayoral Flood Appeal 2022,” Cr Cherry said.

“I’m always bowled over by the incredible spirit of the Tweed community and the efforts undertaken to help others in their time of need and this was no exception.

We saw everything from gen erous donations by some of the Tweed’s largest companies, to fundraising luncheons host ed by top sports champions and grassroots community activities such as church fetes – thanks to all of you for your generosity.”

Cr Cherry said special thanks must go to UK-based ITV Studios (the makers of the show I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! which is filmed in the Tweed) which contrib uted $21,500 to the appeal as well as MinterEllison law firm ($15,000), Tweed Heads Plumbing Supplies ($8,500), the Salt Bar ($7,150), All Saints Anglican Church - Mur willumbah ($2,220), Seaside

Shelter ($2,000), Gold Coast Airport ($1,000) and NSW Spray Seal ($1,000).

Grassroots community groups also contributed to the appeal, including Murwillum bah Men’s Shed ($520) and Murwillumbah Ladies Golf ($500).

Murwillumbah Community Centre Manager Wendy Con stantine thanked all of those who donated to the appeal.

“We used the donation of $20,000 to put towards the purchase of a second hand 12-seater van after ours was destroyed in the floods,” Ms Constantine said.

“We use the van to pick up donated food to support peo ple in need in our community and to provide transport for our Youth and Indigenous programs.

“We are very appreciative of the support.” For more information visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/mayor al-flood-appeal

Tweed Mayor Chris Cherry and MCC Manager Wendy Constantine with the new bus

Application for Appointment of Board Members

Burringbar Public Recreation Reserve Land Manager

Ever wondered who is responsible for keeping Crown reserves operating?

Countless facilities like showgrounds, local halls and parks are run by Statutory Land Manager Boards, made up of people just like you. People who understand the need and have a desire to manage public land and assets for the benefit of the entire community.

Your role as a Board Member is voluntary, but the rewards of giving something back to the community are priceless. We are looking for a good mix of people with a variety of skills, however, sound business and financial management skills and objective decision-making expertise would be a distinct advantage.

Don’t let this opportunity to do something for yourself and your community pass you by – contact us today.

The Burringbar Public Recreation Reserve Land Manager manages the Reserve No. 67652 at Burringbar notified on 3-Jun-1938 for Public Recreation. The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years.

Application for membership can be made via portal.crownland.nsw.gov.au

All applications are required to be lodged by 21 November 2022.

For further information contact: Chrissy Haslem on (02) 6642 9213 or go to reservemanager.crownland.nsw.gov.au

Crowded hubs add to trauma

By Yvonne Gardiner

PUTTING TRAUMATISED people close together in temporary housing hubs in the Tweed is likely to have negative effects on their men tal health, according to a res ident of the Pottsville facility.

The resident, who has chosen not to be named, has spent five weeks in a caravan at the Pottsville hub.

This is his third move after floods in February forced him out of private accommodation at Mullumbimby.

Just after the floods, he was sent to a motel, then moved into a motorhome, both miles away from his flood-affected unit.

“I couldn’t stand living in the motor home. I did want to go back to the flat but wasn’t given the option,” he said.

“It seems to me the government is not considering the trauma that’s happened.

“One lady’s been shifted eight times since February.”

A spokesman for Resil ience NSW, managers of the Pottsville site, said more than 35 caravans would house about 70 people, with allocations ongoing.

“Temporary housing sites are established on the limited land available that isn’t at significant risk of flood and is close to the communities they would service,” he said.

“Temporary housing sites are expected to be used for two to three years.

“ Emergency accommoda tion is still available to all who need it.

“Despite significant chal lenges, the NSW Government continues to work every day to provide temporary housing for residents in the Northern Rivers displaced by flooding.”

The Pottsville site resident who spoke to The Weekly has PTSD as the result of

a car accident, and is strug gling to recover in the packed temporary housing facility.

A violent incident at the facility has added to the ongoing trauma.

“I would rather live in a place by myself where I can get better,” he said.

“Some people have left the Pottsville hub already because it doesn’t suit them.

“I would love to pay rent again somewhere where I can do what I want to do. I can’t play music in a caravan.”

The resident praised the Pottsville Beach Neighbour hood Centre, which has sup ported him with household goods, counselling, and quiet time in the community garden.

He says the experience of being flooded and losing his home has forced him to be more resilient.

“It feels like there’s a lot of fear around. A lot of people fear they’re going to be com

pletely homeless,” he said.

“We want to push for ade quate housing that gives peo ple their own separateness.

“When are we all going to push the government to do their job and house people?

“To be housed adequately, I want to see that for everyone. I think it would be the best thing for our nation.”

The resident has been told he can stay at the Pottsville hub until June 2023.

He said the facility on Tweed Coast Road was nearly full.

Another Tweed resident who requested anonymity said she was waiting for a pod at Elrond Drive, Kingscliff.

She has lived in the Tweed for 17 years and was living alone in a private rental near Pottsville when the floods hit.

“I’m waiting for a pod in Kingscliff but I still need a place to store my things,” she said.

“The cost of storage is ex pensive. Most storage spaces are full or subject to flooding.

“Before the flood, we already had a housing crisis.

“I don’t want to leave the Northern Rivers. I can afford $300 a week for a home. I am on the pension.”

The Kingscliff temporary housing site is under construc tion and handover is expected to begin in the coming weeks, weather permitting.

The site can host 34 units for to up to 96 people.

bed could be your solution!

The smallest caravan at the Pottsville hub

Tweed Valley

Bella Donna Injectables and Skin started in Burleigh in it’s well reknown clinic and is now venturing into other areas of Australia with its newest clinic now open here in the beautiful picturesque town of Murwillumbah.

Bella Donna Injectables and Skin is your friendly one-stop shop for all Injectables and Skin treatments.

• Antiwrinkle Injections

• Dermal Fillers

• Anti-aging Treatments

• IV Vitamin Therapy

• PRP Platelet Rich Plasma

• Skin Needling

• Microdermabrasion

• Facials

• Medical Grade Peels

• IPL Hair Removal

• LED Light Therapy

• Acne Treatments

From Injectables to PRP, anti ageing treatments to facials, our highly skilled, internationally trained and experienced Nurses at Bella Donna can help anyone with their skin.

Bella Donna offers a wide range of treatments including the famous “Vampire Facial”. The Vampire Facial boosts the natural production of collagen and elastin in the skin. It is an effective non surgical way of improving the apprearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scarring, skin tone and textureas well as improving the skin's intregrity. With the use of your own bodys own natural occurring PRP Platelet Rich Plasma and the amazing tecnology of micro needles. The Vampire Facial will have you looking refreshed and glowing in no time.

We’ve all heard of Vitamin Drips and seen them overseas. They are now becoming extremely popular in Australia with clients see the amazing results and benefits straight away. We are all struggling with and fighting the effects of Covid and flu season, we all have busy fast paced lives and most of us are not getting the nutrients we need in our diets. Vitamin drips are great because they are high doses of vitamins that don’t have to be absorbed through our digestive systems and they go directly to the cells.

Our Registered Nurses here at Bella Donna offer IV Vitamin Therapy Infusions. With a wide range of vitamins including High Dose Vitamin C, Vitamin Bs, Glutathione, Zinc, Magnesium, Biotin, Selenium, Alpha Lipoic Acid and so much more. We have drips customised to suit your individual needs. IV therapy can assist with energy levels, illness, immune support, cell repair, hair, skin, nails and recovery. This list is endless.

Come and see the girls at Bella Donna Injectables and Skin. Right here in Murwillumbah, located Shop 2A 63 Wollumbin St Murwillumbah (next to KFC)

Cobaki developer fined

THE DEVELOPERS of the Cobaki Estate will have to pay $170,000 in fines, after the Court of Criminal Appeal upheld a conviction that found the company had breached its consent conditions.

The Department of Planning and Environment’s Deputy Secretary for Development Assessments David Gainsford said the decision against Leda Manorstead over breaches at its Cobaki development sends a strong message to companies to follow the rules.

“We take compliance very seriously and have tough penalties for developers who don’t do the right thing,” Mr Gainsford said.

“After we conduct rigorous assessments, we place strict conditions on projects to get the best results for the

community and environment.

“It is important applicants follow those conditions.”

The $3 billion Cobaki estate, which is expected to house 13,000 residents, sits behind the Gold Coast airport but actually is in NSW and is approved for 5500 lots

In 2019 Leda Manorstead was found guilty after failing to comply with its conditions, including exceeding the allowable maximum exposed bulk earthworks area and working outside approved areas.

In addition to a fine, Leda Manorstead was ordered to pay the Department’s legal costs, and publish notices in various newspapers outlining the offences.

Mr Gainsford said the community can be assured

that the Department’s compliance team remains vigilant and ready to take enforcement action.

“We have compliance officers on the ground across the state, conducting site visits without warning, carrying out regular inspections and audits, and working with developers to make sure they are sticking to the rules we have set them,” he said.

“The message today is simple – follow the rules or face the consequences.”

If anyone has concerns on potential breaches for a state significant development, they can submit a complaint on the NSW Planning Portal at https://www.planningportal. nsw.gov.au/major-projects/ services/complaint-form

The site of the proposed Cobaki Estate.

Tweed Heads drug raid

By Madeleine Murray

A MAN has been charged with a number of offences including drug and weapons posses

after a raid on a Tweed Heads home on October 17.

The Northern Region Enforcement Squad and Tweed Byron Police executed a search warrant at a Tweed Heads residence at about 9.20am. Police seized a taser, knuckle-dusters, extend able baton, indictable quantity of cocaine, can nabis, hydroponics equipment, ammunition

and approximately $30,000 cash.

A 25-year-old man was arrested and conveyed to Tweed Heads Police station where he was charged with nine offences: possessing a pro hibited weapon (three charges), supplying a prohibited drug in an indictable quantity, taking part in the supply of cannabis in an indictable quantity, possessing a prohibited drug (three charges) and possessing ammunition without a permit.

He appeared in Tweed Heads Local Court on Tuesday, October 18, and was refused bail.

Police photographs of the items tems that were seized in the drug raid

Clubbies mental health day

By Jo Kennett

LIFESAVERS AND the public are invited to a free mental health workshop at Byron Bay Surf Club on Monday, October 24.

Branch Director of Member Services at Far North Coast SLS, Simon Ceglinski said the Mental Fitness and Meaningful Mates for Life savers workshop was “aimed at helping people develop mental fitness and real mateship and networks that can support and nourish when times are tough.

“Gotcha4Life is running the workshop and they will be giving practical advice and tips to help communicate,” he said.

“This is open to all of the community but targeting surf lifesavers including nipper, parents and associate members.

Simon said he had organised the workshop to help deal with the tough times had by many in the community.

“This to help deal with the cumulative effects of the past season as well as other activities that have happened around us,” he said.

“Surf lifesavers have given beyond what was expected of them this year with floods, and this is to support their mental fitness.

“All clubs are welcome to bring any member. It’s also open to the wider community.”

Gotcha4Life’s free workshop, Mental Fitness and Meaningful Mates for Lifesavers, is on at Byron Bay SLSC on Monday, October 24 at 6.30pm.

Lifesavers and members of the public wel come. Speak to your club for more details or email dir.membership@surflifesavingfnc.com

Cabarita Beach SLSC members providing help at Bogangar in the floods of early March

Free solar - savings up to $600 on electricity bills

The

SAE

A

Mavis Kitchen’s big win

By Jo Kennett

MAVIS KITCHEN at Uki has won the Tourism restaurant category at the 2022 NSW Australia Restaurant and Catering (R&CA) Hostplus Awards for Excellence and will now go up against the country’s best in the national awards in November.

The team from Mavis Kitch en were among more than 250 restaurant, cafe and catering businesses gathered to cele brate the achievements of their peers at the awards cer emony at the Royal Randwick Racecourse.

The Awards for Excellence is a nationally recognised,

independently judged awards program that celebrates excep tional service and culinary tal ent across the state.

“It has been an amazing achievement for our team in a very testing year with floods causing us to completely re build the property at the be ginning of the year,” Mavis Kitchen’s business manager Clive Bailey said.

“Our team has worked very hard this year after the re build to continue to offer a high quality of service to our guests and this is a testament to their dedication.”

The Awards for Excellence is the only program in Austra lia where the judging criteria

is determined by consumers who rank what is important to them in the dining experience.

The Awards are judged by an independent team of trained judges who anonymously visit the venues to determine the restaurant/café winners.

R&CA CEO Belinda Clarke said Mavis Kitchen should be “immensely proud” of the win.

“The past two years have been incredibly tough for the entire hospitality industry in Australia but success stories like this show how far hard work can take you,” she said.

“With the right mix of staff, products, produce and service, the results can be extraordinary.”

This program

unlock long

the

to

their

from

in

with the

Director

of

to

on

SAE Group are an Australian owned and operated

industry. SAE Group are a Clean Energy Council Approved Retailer,

with over ten years’ experience in the

Millaray Jorquera & Clive Bailey receiving their award

believe that everyone

believe that everyone

they

they can. So by

So

providing

that the

that the

the

to live the

live the

is a

a

of

and

enjoy, you’ll want to

enjoy, you’ll want to call

of care and compassion our

home.

Koala Beach celebrates 25th anniversary

By Yvonne Gardiner

KOALA BEACH in Pottsville has a unique place in Australian history as the first estate to prioritise the protection of wildlife.

The koala-friendly housing estate was designed in conjunction with the Australian Koala Foundation

(AKF). On October 23, Koala Beach residents will celebrate the estate’s 25th anniversary. It began as a collaboration between the AKF and developers The Ray Group.

“The plight of the urban koala is a slow death by a thousand cuts as one by one they are picked off by dogs, cars, habitat fragmentation and

a deterioration in their habitat resource and their health,” AKF executive director Deborah Tabart said in 1997.

“The Koala Beach site is different. In the planning process, koalas’ come first.”

Roger Wecker was attracted to the estate when it was first advertised and promptly bought a block of land.

“I was introduced to the Tweed district in the 1970s by my friend and longtime local John Heyden. At that time we enjoyed weekends of uncrowded surf and exceptional beach and estuary fishing,” Roger said.

“In 1994 I saw an article about a proposed development by the Ray Group, initially called Sea Ranch at Pottsville.

“After the initial inquiry, I was driven by 4WD through the back of Round Mountain to the estate.

“At that stage there was no infrastructure on the estate, just preliminary survey pegs marking the proposed allotments for stage one.”

Roger placed a $1,000 deposit on block 50 in Flintwood Street on December 18, 1996.

The total price was $71,000.

“What attracted me to Koala Beach was its unique concept of an ecological residential estate within walking distance to the beach but surrounded by hundreds of hectares of

dedicated flora and fauna habitat,” he said.

“Living here has surpassed all expectations, with birds and wildlife freely wandering through without the fear of dogs and cats.

“Although a lot of the original covenants on building restrictions have been superseded, Koala Beach remains a renowned development which should be embraced by the residents who are privileged to live here.

“We absolutely love it. To us,

it’s paradise. We’re very, very happy here.

“The flora and fauna are beautiful, and so is the quietness.”

Celebration day organiser Irene Timmins has lived in the estate for eight years.

“It’s important to celebrate what a joy it is living in this unique and beautiful wildlife-friendly estate which was designed from the onset around protecting the bushland and wildlife,” she said.

“It reminds us that as the

years pass, each resident continues to have a responsibility to uphold those environmental values and to ensure wildlife continue to thrive in our community.

“When we first came to Koala Beach, I was very interested to see what it was like to live in an estate that was designed around protecting koalas.

“After living here for two years, it became apparent what a jewel this place is and we decided to live here permanently.”

Koala Beach resident Roger Wecker

An early brochure advertising the advantages of living in Koala Beach.

Remembering Billy

By Jo Kennett

BILLY HARDY was 20 years old when he left for a footy trip to Bali with his victorious AFL teammates in 2002.

A victim of the Bali bombing, Billy was the only one who didn’t return.

Billy’s sister Jess said 16 years of their childhood was spent at their Tweed West home before they moved “closer to Scales.”

“There were only five years between Billy and I. We were so tight,” Jess said.

“I was the older one. He was fun and cheeky but so dependable and he pulled me into line because I was the wild one.

“He had a group of friends that went to St Josephs and they all went to footy together and he was the glue, the rock.

“Even if I had an argument with Dad, he would try to mediate to make sure everyone was getting along.

“Everyone would come to our house and hang out with him. Billy was the one people went to for advice, he kept us all together.”

Sport was Billy’s passion and he convinced footy legend Larry Corowa’s son, his mate Adam Corowa, to play AFL with him instead of league.

“Dane Corowa sent me photos when they won the Under 19s AFL in Coolangatta which was before Billy was drafted to go to Southport Sharks,” Jess said.

“He was in reserve grade in Sharks and they won and Billy won Best and Fairest.

“I was working in radio in Melbourne and coming back on weekends and I went to the pre

sentation and that was the last time I saw him.

“There was something in me that didn’t want him to go to Bali; I embraced him so tight and it’s like my soul knew but he was so happy. It was almost like there was an aura around him.”

Billy and his mates were at the Sari Club when the bomb went off, killing 202 people.

“A Telstra line at home was severed so there was no landline to mum’s phone that day but it turned out he tried ringing mum that night but couldn’t get through,” Jess remembered.

“He rang his mate Jake and said he couldn’t get through and he was back tomorrow and, ‘Can you tell them I love them’.

“We didn’t know what had happened for six weeks after the bombing and we had people waiting for news at our home every day and the federal police in constant contact.”

Some of Billy’s injured teammates were flown to hospitals around Australia.

“My cousin flew over and Sharks manager Bob Leslie was there with the boys,’ she said.

“He told the other players he was going to the morgues to try to find Billy and he didn’t want them going in.

“He’d been in Vietnam so we can never give him enough grati tude. He said it was horrific.

“My brother’s mate said they were so glad they didn’t have to see that; they still have PTSD and they still struggle with coming home without Billy.”

Jess said they were at her mother’s West Tweed home when they got the news.

“The federal police came to the door with a counsellor and we just knew,” she said.

“They identified him based on dental records and brought his

remains back so we could have a public funeral service.

“There were so many people there. I had felt so alone after the six weeks of trauma. At the funeral I knew we weren’t alone, that in that moment of grief we stood together as not only a community but as Aussies.

“I will always treasure that memory.

“There was this outpouring of love and compassion for us and for Billy.” Jess recently caught up with Adam and Lar ry Corowa on Duranbah Hill to have a beer and share stories of Billy. Last week on the 20th anniversary of Billy’s death, she and mum Christine went to Billy’s memorial which his mate put up opposite Scales Seafood.

“We used to skim rocks there while we were waiting for our fish and chips so it’s a beautiful place to sit and remember,” she said.

“They had a spinning egg and he used to spin me around and not let me off and I’d get so dizzy.

“I was in Big Brother the year he passed and he filmed me there for the audition that got me into the Big Brother house. We laughed at everything we filmed.

“We had fish and chips and did the egg. I pretended I was a gymnast and he filmed me swinging off the swing and I landed perfectly and he said, ‘And that’s a ten’.”

“He made me go up on top of Kirra Hill and filmed me on a scooter going down the path.

“I’d never ridden a scooter and he made me skateboard too. I’d never done that.

“I’m so uncoordinated but he was always a cheerleader, saying ‘You can do it.’

“He put posters up everywhere saying, Vote for Jess and before he left the house I’d say,

‘Billy I love you’ and he’d say, ‘Yeah I know.’ Jess said Billy and his mates got Coolangatta skatepark up and running, “because he was so into skating.”

“My brother was the Red House captain of senior school at St Josephs and I was the house captain of the primary school,” she said.

“He has a Billy Hardy memorial plaque they award every year. He was so into sport and it has his story on the plaque so they can remember. I love that.

“If nothing else he taught me to always love and to cherish every moment with people because you don’t know how much time you’ve got.

“When you get shitty over silly things, ask if it’s really worth it for those trivial things.

“Billy radiated love. I love that he has had such an impact, which is the goodness that overrides the evil. There is a point to it, a purpose and that’s where I find my comfort.”

Jess, Billy & Christine

Ash

By Nic Hanlon

THE UKI Festival, a celebra tion for the Mud-Army, has had a huge response across the region, with tickets selling out just two weeks after they were released.

Lucky ticket holders will get to witness the incredible blues power of headliner and flood-affected local Ash Grun wald on Sunday, October 23.

Ash spoke to The Weekly about the Big Flood.

Q. Where were you during the big flood of Feb ’22, what happened?

We were in the thick of it in New Brighton, our bottom level got flooded. You could get down the streets in a tinny, I guess half the people in our neighbourhood evacuated.

Q. What do you think about the overall community response to the flood?

It profoundly affected me. It was really interesting in the context of what we’d experienced during the preceding couple of years. The government seemed to have endless resources, and yet, when it came to the crunch, and to helping those affected in the floods, the government seemed very under-resourced. It made me think how we are on our own in times of genuine need.

People just banded together in our area, we were all in each other’s houses,

ripping out walls and clean ing up. I know a lot of tradies didn’t go back to work for two weeks or more.

People were coming far and wide to help us. You’d be walking from house to house helping, or cleaning your own house, and somebody would come by and say, ‘Hey, do you want some food?’ Some peo ple were driving around giv ing out beers! I heard stories of people doing some really brave rescues further inland.

The community spirit was just amazing, and I thought, ‘Wow, when we’re in real times of need we’re there for each other.’ I’m really honoured to help out and come do my bit at Uki, and I love the idea of doing a gig to help out once the dust has settled.

Some people will have forgotten about the flood,

ready for

but a lot of people are still in heaps of pain. I’m stoked to be a part of it.

Q. What’s the best festival gig you ever played?

The last Bluesfest was spe cial to me because we’d had so much of the live music taken away with COVID and to have it all back was amazing.

I was doing the duo stuff with Josh Teskey. I also got Kyle Lionheart up with my band and Bobby Alu. Then I filled in for Matt Taylor in Chain, we also had Jeff Lang in the band, and of course Phil Manning. That was an amazing experience. I felt honoured to be a part of that.

If you are

coming to the festival, please catch the bus! Return Gosel’s buses will run from 8am till late from Knox Park Bus Stop in Murwillum bah, every hour all weekend. There will be local Park & Ride bus for locals.

More details @ the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ TheUkiFest

Cycling for a cause

By Yvonne Gardiner

MEMBERS OF Potty Pedal ers are doing their best to find a cure for children’s cancers by taking part in the Great Cycle Challenge.

Cancer is the largest single killer of children from disease in Australia – more than 600 children are diagnosed with cancer every year and, sadly, three die every week.

Barry and Ruth Lawrence have stepped up to the chal lenge for the third year.

“We just thought it was a pretty good cause, and something we could do,”

can join our team. Go on the website page and sign up.

“You elect how many kilome tres you’re going to ride and how much you’d like to raise in the month of October.

“You can join in the ride from anywhere in the world.”

The Lawrences had a target of $250 this year and have raised $1600 so far.

“Donors dig deep. They’re very generous,” Barry said.

“You have to bear in mind that it’s been a difficult year

The Bale Em Up Bush Band

Jesse Darkness will play the sold out Uki Festival

Aged Care Careers

Are you looking for a career change or a new employment opportunity? Would you like to make a positive difference in the lives of people living in the Northern Rivers community?

Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT) is a leading notfor-profit aged care provider that has been caring about people for more than 50 years. We deliver personalised, quality care and support services across our network of Retirement Villages, Home Care services and Residential Care homes.

We offer a variety of exciting career and development opportunities. If you’re a Registered Nurse, or you have a Certificate III in Individual Support, we’d love to hear from you. With our traineeships and graduate programs, you can work while you learn about this fantastic industry.

Hopes of a cure for five-year-old Mason

By Yvonne Gardiner

SLAMMING INTO a set of drawers at the age of 15 months put Mason Garnar on the path to a cancer diagnosis and years of hospitalisation.

This courageous five-year-old battler from Tweed Heads has endured months of chemother apy for his rare form of cancer, known as Langerhans cell his tiocytosis (LCH).

“It’s where the cells from his pancreas go rogue and cause tumours all over his body,” his mum Alex said.

“He’s had them in his brain, his lungs, his liver and his spine, down both arms and legs and in his pelvis. The first one originated at his left eye.”

An eye injury from the draw er incident would not heal.

It was only when Ma son’s family took him to the Queensland Children’s Hos pital three months after the accident that the diagnosis of cancer was confirmed.

“Within an hour and a half, he was prepped and in sur gery,” Alex said.

“Two days later, he was on chemo.”

Since his diagnosis, Mason has endured surgeries, an un successful drug trial, blood and platelet transfusions and many rounds of aggressive chemotherapy.

He’s also spent long pe riods of time in hospital because of various fevers, septicaemia and the painful side effects of his treatments.

His mum Alex hopes the worst is behind Mason and that he can start school in 2023.

“The last sets of scans showed he had one tumour still in the top part of his lungs and a few in his neck,” she said.

Mason is a worthy am bassador for the Great Cycle Challenge which raises funds for medical research into children’s cancers.

“In the first year, Mason’s Mates raised $1.120 mil lion. We were in the top ten fundraisers in Australia,” Alex said.

“Most of the donors were complete strang ers. It’s the one thing that gets you through it, to know you’re not alone.

“It’s a great organ isation to help be cause 100 per cent of the funds go to trying to find a cure for our children.”

Riding to Sydney for Ed

By Jo Kennett

A GROUP of local union players are about to set off on a 1,000 kilometre, six day fundraising bike ride to Sydney to help their mate who was recently diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

Tyler Durdens drummer, Uki’s Sam Harrison, is origi nally from the UK and played professional rugby union for years and now plays for the Casuarina Beach Barbarians. Sam’s mate, well-known UK rugby player Ed Slater, lived in Australia for several years, playing union for Eastern Sub urbs Rugby Union Club. “I played with Ed at Leices

ter Tigers in England and we had a mutual friend who went to university with Ed and he also lives in Pottsville now,” Sam said.

“Ed is back in England now. He had to retire when he was diagnosed and his current club Gloucester started the 4Ed campaign and that’s what we are raising funds for.

“We decided to do a bike ride to raise money for him and his family.

“We have gathered a team of eight ex-teammates and friends and we are cycling from Byron Bay to Eastern Suburbs Rugby Club in Syd ney.”

The club is holding a big

fundraiser when the team ar rives in Sydney.

“We are completely inex perienced; we were going to start training but the amount of organisation has taken up a lot of our free time,” Sam said.

“Everyone has done the same, but we have a support vehicle going with us.

“We are leaving at 7am from Byron Bay Lighthouse on Monday, October 24, and anyone who wants to come and join in at the start of the ride is welcome.

“We would love people to follow the ride on Instagram @downunder4ed and donate if possible, at DOWN UNDER 4ED Go Fund Me.”

Great Cycle Challenge ambassador Mason Garnar, and (above) at home with mum Alex.

Ed Slater

Local artist big winner

By Madeleine Murray

LOCAL ARTIST Michael Philp is the first winner of the inaugural Bundjalung art award. Born on Minjunbal tribal land, which is part of the Bundjalung nation, Michael won the $10,000 prize for his painting Pearly Shells.

The prestigious honour is part of Tweed Regional Gallery’s new biennial Wolllumbin Art Award, open to artists in the Northern Rivers, with prizes totalling $30,000.

“I’m still getting my head around it,” Michael told The Weekly.

“It’s a big honour for me to win this.

“My family have been in the Tweed for a pretty long time.

“It’s a nice recognition from a local level to be the first winner of this award. Back on country.”

Pearly Shells, a work in Michael’s distinctive, powerful style, honours the artist’s mother, aunty and grandmother, who grew up in the Tweed.

As part of the award, Michael, who lives in Tweed Heads, will exhibit in a solo show at the Gallery in 2023.

“Now I have to get working,” Michael said. “That’s the next big step!”

The Tweed Regional Gallery has three of Mi chael’s works in its permanent collection, as well as Hauling for Sea Mullet, which he gifted to the gallery in 2017.

Amber Wallis, an artist based in the Byron Shire, has won the Wollumbin Art Award (WAA), a new biennial award.

The Tweed Regional Gallery’s $15,000 prize includes a two-week residency in the Nancy Fairfax Residence Studio on the spectacular site of the gallery overlooking the Tweed River. The enigmatic painting of the artist’s daughter is called Ivy With Eyes.

You can see more of Michael’s amazing art work on his website: www.michaelphilp.com.au Michael will be giving a talk at 2pm on Sunday, October 30, at the gallery.

Michael Philp's award-winning painting, Pearly Shells.

Photo by Jaka Adamic

Rechargeable, in-the-ear hearing aid.

A custom-fitted, rechargeable hearing aid that is packed with award-winning hearing technology.

Natural sound experience.

Portable charger: 24 hours of use on a single charge. Hands-free phone and FaceTime calls for iPhone and iPad*. Weather-proof and sweatproof. Comfortable all day long.

Beltone Rely 4

Great sound quality, long-lasting

and a comfortable design that

Natural sound quality. Clear stereo sound when talking on the

noise reduction.

water and dust

Music Mode

Desperate family seeks rental

By Jo Kennett

PETA SOUTHON is still living with her fam ily of four in a Murwillumbah motel, nearly eight months after the floods, having applied unsuccessfully for over 300 rentals.

They were given seven days’ notice to salvage what they could and get out of their South Murwillumbah rental after being rescued by the SES in the middle of the night.

“After we handed back the keys the real estate agent contacted us and asked us to do a bond clean, but they ended up giving our bond back,” Peta said.

“I have four kids. My 19-year-old and 14-yearold are living with their pop, and I have the 17-year-old and seven-year-old living in the motel with my husband and me.

“We have been in the same motel since April but before that we were moved around weekly from Tugun to Brunswick.

“They wanted to put us into a youth hostel and split us up, but I refused.

“We’ve all had our birthdays in the motel, and

we are now coming up to Christmas.”

Peta said the one thing her family wants for Christmas is a home.

“We need stability and routine and a yard for my seven-year-old son to play in because he’s not the type to sit inside and play on his com puter, he likes to be outside running around, climbing trees, and riding his bike,” she said.

“We have applied for over 300 properties and our real estate agent said they are giving us glowing recommendations, so I don’t know what it takes to get a place.

“I know of people offering up to six months’ rent in advance but how can you compete with that; it’s just not doable when you have kids.

“It’s one thing after another with school excursions and my daughter’s started TAFE.”

Peta works at the Condong Bowling Club as a cleaner, bartender and cook and at the Burringbar Sports Club.

“We were always in our front with our rent and I’m a cleaner and a cook so I’m very particular about my home,” she said.

“There is plenty of money coming in so now

we are thinking we are probably better off saving up a deposit and trying to buy some thing.

“Rents have gone through the roof but interest rates have gone up so owners need to cover themselves, but I also think some are just being greedy going with people who have more money but who aren’t in situations like ours.

“There are so many people in motels, and I think they should prioritise them.”

Apart from the initial trauma, the lack of housing has taken a huge toll on the family.

“My 17-year-old isn’t coping too well, she’s been struggling and kids that age are all so depressed now anyway with social media,” Peta said.

“My seven-year-old is saving his money for a house.

“Every time I ask what he wants he says, ‘You know what I want, a house’.

“The kids at Pops are finding it very hard because they just want to be back with the family; the 14-year-old just wants to come home and be with Mum. “

The situation got even worse for the family when their son got COVID.

“My son had COVID two months ago and the whole room got roped off and they put a sign up closing off the area,” she said.

“We were told we would get kicked out if anyone else got COVID.

“Every little thing for about three days just set me off and I would just break down.

“I went to the laundromat to wash all the sheets so the motel didn’t have to, and I couldn’t get the doona into the doona cover.

“A lady came to help and I just broke down and she told me that things will get better.

“It’s been a big roller coaster as far as the emotional side of it.

“I think that’s why I work so much; it keeps me together.”

Peta said she and her husband weren’t opti mistic about the future.

“I don’t see anything improving because we just keep getting rejected,” she said.

“A lot of people don’t want kids in there be cause of past experiences but not all kids are the same; my kids respect things and they’re not like that.

“We have looked at moving away but we have family here, work here, jobs here.

“The insecurity of not knowing where we are going to go is really bad and sometimes I just break down.

Peta Southon and family

Classic concert stars French Horn

By Madeleine Murray

THE NORTHERN Rivers Symphony Orchestra (NRSO) will perform an exciting concert featuring an unusual solo instrument, the French Horn.

Virtuoso Preston Ellis, who is only 22 years old, will perform Richard Strauss’ French Horn concerto No. 1, on Sunday afternoon, October 30.

Preston’s career began at a young age and at age 11 his enthusiasm led him to the French Horn.

“I love the horn because of its versatility and its huge capacity for expression,” Preston told The Weekly.

In 2017, Preston was invited to perform with the University of Queensland and to play his first major orchestral work, Mahler’s second symphony. This experience gave Preston tremendous artistic satisfaction and was the start of his love for orchestral works.

In 2018, Preston started his tertiary studies at The University of Queensland (UQ).

For the next two years, he performed regularly with the UQ Symphony Orchestra and with the Xi’an Symphony Orchestra in the Shanxi Provence of China.

“To play with the Xian symphony Orchestra was probably what gave me the motivation to make music my career,” Preston said.

“I was lucky enough to play Symphony No. 1 ‘Titan’ by Gustav Mahler.

“I remember the full body sensation I felt in the first rehearsal that l would like to devote my life to music.”

NRSO, conducted by Marco Bellasi, presents Tchaikovsky, Richard Strauss, and Dvorak Symphony No. 3.

The concert is on Sunday, 30 October from 2:30-5:00pm at the Tweed Heads Civic Centre. Tickets are $45, with student and other

Ellis

Preston Ellis is performing with the NRSO

Paco Lara filled The Regent’s auditorium with gorgeous guitar, strummed in the unmistakeable Flamenco style, displaying his fantastically fluent fingers, totally transporting us to Jerez, Spain, with his authentic sounds. The whole band loved playing the venue just as much as the audience adored them! Promising to return soon, divine dancer, Deya, is planning Flamenco dance workshops to accompany the next tour. I’m looking forward to being able to utilise the ground level – where the original theatre stalls were located – for these types of events next year. It’s currently being repaired from damage incurred from the floods; a massive job being courageously tackled by Matt Macfie and his amazing team – big gratitude to all of you for keeping on keeping on!! We will have a beautiful new floor to dance on in 2023! My recent trip to Brisbane brought oodles of inspiration at The Princess Theatre – she’s a precious gem! So many plans and ideas are bubbling away in my brain for all the exciting things we will do with that incredible space downstairs at

The Regent… stay tuned! Until then, we have an awesome line-up of films, live music and events on upstairs over the next few months to rapidly bring you right up to the new year. Remember, you can book The Regent cinema as a whole, or just the beautiful balcony, for your private screenings, events, work Christmas parties, birthdays, anniversaries – all special occasions. We love to celebrate with you! I’m busily scheduling November films, all the while looking forward to what we still have left this month – next weekend is particularly packed! The Lennon Songbook is almost sold out, so tickets on the door may not be available. Hussy Hicks have just announced that the wonderfully wild and witchy woman, Áine Tyrrell, beloved by The Regent crowd, will be their Special Guest for their November 19th show. We’re overjoyed to have her back for a night brimming with awe-inspiring woman power!! The theme of strong women continues through the films for November too; The Woman King takes the crown, promising to be exhilaratingly epic!

New wave, punk fun at Kingy

IT’S BEEN 20 years since Preston played the Kingscliff Beach Hotel but they are back on Friday, October 28, to make a bit of history with their distinct blend of punk, ska and new wave. They are performing at the Kingscliff Beach hotel, Friday October 28, from 7-10pm.

They haven’t played at the hotel for close to 20 years and the 28th will be history in the making.

Durangbah’s Terry Perkins is the lead singer and said Preston are fine purveyors of the Punk, New Wave, Ska and Roll movement with their interpretations of classic acts like Iggy Pop, The Clash, The Stranglers, The Jam, The Dead Kennedys with a few Sunnyboys etc tunes to round out their repertoire.

Preston played many classic venues in Brisbane and North Coast haunts in the early 2000s as well as Falls Byron Festival in January 2019.

Terry is more than just a singer; he is an energetic entertainer and establishes a great rapport with audiences.

He has the vocal chops to move comfortably from soulful ballads to raging rock and previously performed with seven-piece Ska/ Reggae/Soul/Rock ensemble Never the Sane.

Brian Mann on guitar and vocals has had stints over the years with The Lime Spiders, The Screaming Tribesmen, The Girlies and Ed Kuepper.

He now plays guitar and records music with Mick Medew from the Screaming tribesmen.

The boys are complemented by Sue and Maree on drums and bass respectively.

They also both perform in the all-girl AC/ DC show Her Way to Hell and Chick Flick.

Her Way is a high voltage tribute show presenting all the Acca Dacca tunes you love combined with all the rock and roll swagger you can handle.

Chick Flick honed their craft as a covers band, whilst dabbling in the original’s scene in Queensland.

They have produced two EP’s with regular airplay on 4ZZZ.

Preston regularly plays at the Cudgen Surf Club Kingscliff and venues in Brisbane and Jacobs Well as well as on the Gold Coast, with Brian, Sue and Maree all based in Brisbane.

Don’t miss a great, free night at the Kingscliff Beach Hotel on Friday, October 28, from 7-10pm.

Thursday 20th the SACRED SOUND TEMPLE presents SACRED EARTH, music for inner peace, + GAIATREE for the monthly Kirtan. Arrive early for a Vegan nourish bowl & warming Chai, from 5pm.

New film this week: EVERYBODY HATES JOHAN

Bill Jacobi is back on our balcony bringing toe-tapping banjo joy to the Sunset Soirée, Saturday 22nd (6-8pm)

FINALS: TICKET TO PARADISE + THE TERRITORY + MUNCH

NEXT WEEK: The BYRON BAY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL comes to Murwillumbah with 3 stellar films over 3 days, specifically curated for The Regent audience. Enjoy all of these fantastic documentaries with a discounted full festival pass (buy online via any of the films in the BBFF)

BBFF PROGRAM: FRI 28TH 7:30pm- UNSEEN SKIES

SAT 29TH 7:30pm- MY OLD SCHOOL /// SUN 30TH 12pm- PATOU: IN BLACK AND WHITE + Q&A

Saturday 29th we’re celebrating an early Halloween, with a double-dose of David Bowie, starting at noon with MOONAGE DAYDREAM, followed by a special single screening of LABYRINTH dress up & sing-along! Bring your scarily-costumed kids for some intergenerational fun…then gather together on the Balcony for some Bowie-only Karaoke, before Felicity Lawless lends her high vibes to our Sunset Soirée. The day isn’t done though, as BBFF continues with, My Old School a truly bizarre true story, told via a most unusual documentary method, and starring esteemed actor, Alan Cummings.

You may as well camp out at The Regent all weekend, as Sunday sees the final film of BBFF, PATOU, plus an in-person Q&A with Pat Powell. We’ll finish this epic weekend, and month, with a bang…the long anticipated, and soon-to-be-sold-out, show…THE JOHN LENNON SONGBOOK with JOHN WATERS Book now or miss out!!

Bill Jacobi at The Regent

BILL JACOBI may have spent his first 10 years growing up in South Carolina, with bluegrass in his blood, before his family migrated to Australia, but after 22 years in our beautiful region, he’s clearly found his soul home.

“I can live surrounded by nature and a vibrant community; and still be within striking distance of the full three ring circus,” Bill said.

Spending his teens in Newcastle, before trying out Sydney, Bill began touring the Northern Rivers area in bands.

Like so many, the climate and the lifestyle drew him in, inviting him to stay.

“Another refugee from the big smoke,” he said.

The power of music to transcend language first caught Bill’s attention at a young age.

His first musical memory was hearing Miriam

Makeba singing on his parents record player.

“I didn’t understand what she was saying, but it sure made me feel good.

“Music can take you on a journey and tell you a story.

“It can make you cry, and it can make you get up and dance.

“It has always been my ultimate sanctuary.”

Lately he has been finding his peace in the sanctity of the studio.

“I’ve been spending as much time as possible in my studio, tinkering away at songs for a new album; but I’m taking my time,” Bill said.

“To me the creative process seems so much more rewarding than the final product.”

Bill is playing The Regent Balcony Sessions on Saturday, October 22, at 6pm.

FRI

The Night of the 12th 5:00PM Everybody Hates Johan 7:30PM

OCTOBER SAT

OCTOBER

Everybody Hates Johan 12:00PM The Territory 2:00PM

Moonage Daydream 4:00PM Balcony Sessions (LIVE MUSIC ON BALCONY)

BILL JACOBI 6:00-8:00PM

The Night of the 12th 6:45PM

SUN 23 OCTOBER

Ticket to Paradise (FINAL) 12:00PM

Munch: Love, Ghosts and Lady Vampires (FINAL) 2:15PM

The Territory (FINAL) 4:15PM

Everybody Hates Johan 6:15PM

COMING SOON

SATURDAY 19TH NOVEMBER

Preston play the Kingscliff Beach Hotel Friday, October 28

FEATURED BUSINESS

KB’s TROPHIES and Engraving have been creating and personalising trophies for all types of events and competitions around the Tweed Shire and have a proud history of helping sporting and community organisations with their trophy needs. They have a proven track record of producing quality trophies on time for events around the community.

Local family Geoff and Jillian Wotherspoon have been the owners of KB’s Trophies and Engraving for 22 years. Geoff has lived in Murwillumbah his entire life while Jillian has lived in Murwillumbah for over

40 years.

KB’s Trophies & Engraving was previously owned by local Ken Baldwin (KB) before Jillian and Geoff purchased the business from the late KB who was well known in the community.

“We have four children that went through school and grew up and were part of the local community here,” Jillian told The Weekly. “We were heavily involved with our local hockey association and enjoyed following our children around the country

watching their hockey achievements”.

“We offer a wide range of trophies and engraving ranging from, but not limited to; indoor and outdoor plaques, one-off trophies, club trophies, school trophies, social competition trophies, end of season/year trophies, medals, medallions, name badges, clocks, glassware and drink bottles”.

If you are involved with a Sporting, School and community organization, reach out to us about trophies and engraving for your next occasion – you can have confidence we can deliver on time for your big event.

White

Boat for Sale

for Sale

Coast to

Caravans

Car for Sale

Car for Sale

Celebration

Happy Diamond Anniversary BRUCE & AURIEL BARTRIM

Congratulations on celebrating 60 years of marriage. You are an inspiration to many.

We wish you continued love and good health for many more years to come.

Lots of love and best wishes, from all of your family.

Caravan for Sale

White

Firewood

For Sale

HEALTH FIRST AID COURSE

Massage Massage

Thai Massage.

Positions Vacant

DRIVERS WANTED Are you on the pension and looking for extra cash, why not drive a taxi. Unemployed and got a good driving record. For more information contact Ken 0412 899 145

SCHOOL BUS DRIVER Crossan’s Buses operate put of Lundberg Drive Murwillumbah. Short local school run 4 hrs. per day. Must have MR License, working with children, public passenger vehicle authority. Immediate start. Ph Ern 0412 960 377

DRIVER National Transport & Logistics company looking for experienced HC or MC drivers at Condong Broadwater or Harwood Sugar Mill sites. Excellent seasonal pay & conditions. Send resume to Wendy.Keel@sctlogistics.com.au.

Positions Vacant

Motorcycle Posties needed

opportunities available. $55K to $65k a year inclusive, depending on position.

Join a friendly, motivated group of riders and sorters, riding everyday in all

conditions from South Tweed Heads. You must have a full licence and be able to pass an Australia Post Federal Police check.

Please call Sean on 0419246662 or Sharon 0402530140 or email Zorros66@Gmail.com

Positions Vacant

New Cafe in Murwillumbah is looking for dynamic, capable and reliable people, who must have at least 3 years experience in hospitality operations.

Positions Available

Head Chef - Qualified minimum 5 years exp Cooks - minimum 3 years experience Cafe shift managers - minimum 3 years experience in a managerial role Baristas - minimum 3 years experience

Front of House - minimum 2 years experience Desirable but not essential, certificate 2 or 3 in hospitality operations, Above award wages for the successful applicants. Please send resume to starbirdcafe2484@gmail.com

Legal Notice

Correction of wording for Legal Notice dated 13th October 2022 for Felicia Gunhild Engstrom©

PUBLIC NOTICE OF PEOPLE, TACIT ACCEPTANCE AND RECONVEYANCE: Felicia Gunhild Engstrom© of Tweed Heads West, New South Wales state, is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of my properties and all associated copyright protected Trade Names Felicia Gunhild Engstrom©, FELICIA GUNHILD ENGSTROM©, and all variations, and all other relative styles, have lawfully reconveyed all relevant variations of Naming Conventions since unrebutted lawful Reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia, on the tenth day of October 2022, Public Recording Number RPP4463900051001677183605. Thus severing usufruct subjugation ties with the occupying corporate government of Australia in its entirety. Immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon the copyright protected financial instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Felicia Gunhild Engstrom© in fraudalent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA.

Positions Vacant

Positions Vacant

FARMER

Snake Catcher

Duties

Please

PEARSON David Bruce Tuxford 10/10/2022 Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

WESTGATE Shirley May 11/10/2022 Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

I am Topsy I am Topsy. You may remember me Annie’s com panion, best pals we be.

S adly, it was time to take my leave and now my mum is left to grieve.

My love for her knows no bounds. Mum found me, 14 years ago, at the pound.

Good times we enjoyed, and we went everywhere and friends we had oh!

There were many.

Annie, Mum, my rock and loving carer know that my love is yours forever.

You have my blessing to start over again a new friend to bring comfort and ease your pain.

Social Group

GRANT Norman James 14/10/2022 Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

WELLARD Marie Patricia 14/10/2022 Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

NDREWS Beverley Dawn 22/9/2022 Heritage Brothers

5599 1500

TOGO Cheri Anne 7/10/2022

Brothers

Funeral Notices

Narelle Holstein

Late of Limpinwood.

Passed away peacefully at Greenslopes Private Hospital on Wednesday 12th October 2022. Aged 92 Years.

Dearly loved Wife of Vincent Holstein (dec’d).

Loved Mother of Gleave & Roslyn, Neil & Karen, Irene & Dale, Maree & Gordon and Bernice & Bill.

Loved Grandmother, Great-Grandmother and Great-Great-Grandmother.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Narelle’s Funeral Service to be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Friday, 21st October 2022 at 11:00am (NSW time).

After the service the cortege will leave for the Murwillumbah Lawn Cemetery.

“It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later”

Ph: (02) 6672 2144 Murwillumbah

BRYANT Betty Jo 11/10/2022

Brothers

1500

BOYLE Frances Mary 12/10/2022

Brothers

Directors

Cudgen Headland Surf Club Report

By Shiana Lewis

ON SATURDAY, October 15, our members competed in the first carnival of the season; Coolangatta Gold 2022. We had 4 teams competing in the Short Course event (Ski: 10.5km, Swim 2km, Board 3km, Run 5.5km) with all teams winning a place on the podium.

- 1st Place: Backstreet Boyz and Cudgen Chicks

- 2nd Place: Cudgen Headland Girls - 3rd Place: Cudgen Vintage

We had 20 athletes entered in the Youth Challenge with competitors in most age groups. Two podium finishes and a further 7 athletes finishing in the top 10.

- 3rd Place: U15 Male - Fletcher Burdekin

- 3rd place: U15 female - Isabella Tate

Congratulations and well done to everyone competing/handling, bring on the 22/23 season!

Cudgen Teams:

- Backstreet Boyz (Eddie Killingbeck, Jarrad Cain, Scott McCartney, Bailey Copeland)

- Cudgen Chicks (Chloe Jones, Hayley Smith, Sofie Boyd, Elise O’Callaghan)

- Cudgen Headland Girls (Shiana

Lewis, Shar Merchant, Kloe Mills, Janthea Anderson)

- Cudgen Vintage (George, Luke Hutchinson, Ben Allsopp, Erin Kill)

Uki Refugee Project Picnic

The local Uki Refugee Project organised a Friendship Weekend for a group of 25 refugees and asylum seekers from Brisbane on Sunday, October 16.

The weekend culminated with a picnic on Sunday at Ed Parker Rotary Park offering the opportunity for their guests to take a swim and/or a paddle in our lovely Cudgen Creek.

Under sunny conditions, many children and adults from the group thoroughly enjoyed their time in the water. A small, but well-equipped Cudgen Headland Surf Life Saving Club Outpost Patrol was very happy to provide water safety. The team, overseen by Andrew Mills and the Old Salts, included Chevy Lewis, Harrison Davies and Jenny Waters.

A magnificent (and waste free!) free picnic lunch for about 50 people, catered for by the hosts, was provided for the guests, community volunteers and the Outpost Patrol!

The weather just held out and rain was narrowly avoided.

As the Outpost patrol packed up the SSV and departed from the creek, we felt happy and grateful to have been part of their day. Our time interacting with the refugees and asylum seekers, both in the water and over lunch, was most enjoyable.

Cudgen Nippers

Sunday morning, we welcomed our new Cudgen Nipper kids! This is where new friends are made and stepping out of your comfort zone and pushing to be the best you!

Welcome to the 22/23 Season Cudgen Nippers!!

Finally, after a few setbacks with COVID we can finally bring back to you the popular Cudgen Classic. We are inviting all clubs around to get involved for our first carnival of the year held at our surf club. Nippers to under 17s, even parents are welcome, come on down and give it your all!

Many prizes to be won and a fun day to remember! The carnival is held this Saturday, October 22, and there is still time to sign up! Sign up can be done by the link in our Instagram bio @cudgenheadland.slsc, QR Code or via the link http://www.cudgenslsc.org.au/surfsports-home/carnival-calendar/

Junior triathlete Xane Bowen on the rise

MURWILLUMBAH JUNIOR

triathlete Xane Bowen continues to show promise as an aspiring elite competitor having posted a number of strong results recently.

Xane achieved outstanding results at a recent triathlon in Robina, achieving first place in his age group as well as third overall in the sprint distance event.

He also capitalised on his recent form, winning his age category and finishing third overall in the Queensland Triathlon Series sprint distance event at Robina.

The 15-year-old is a member of the Tweed Valley Triathletes (TVT) club and is coached by TVT Vice

President, Brendan Murray.

With the support of his mother Sharnah Bowen and his grand parents, Xane travels extensively to access competition and develop ment opportunities.

In October and November last year Xane competed in a number of Triathlon NSW Pathway Series events, a program supporting the next generation of upcoming elite athletes.

At the Canberra and Orange events, Xane achieved podium finishes in his age category.

He also finished in the top ten over all at both events, rivalling some of the best Under-23 triathletes in New South Wales.

As a junior athlete, Xane juggles the demands of school and a comprehen sive training program that sees him undertake multiple swimming, cycling or running sessions most days.

Bowen’s coach, Brendan Murray said, “Xane has matured a lot in the past 12 months.

“He’s accepted the daily workload and does a lot solo,” Brendan said.

“Xane has adapted well to racing longer distances and his experience at TVT has helped a lot”.

“Xane is a long-term member of Tweed Valley Triathletes.

“He has progressed exponential ly from the club’s Tri Mites junior events through to competing in longer

races conducted by TVT.”

Tweed Valley Triathletes President, Matthew Lamont said Xane’s work ethic towards his training and com petition was “exceptional.”

“He is a fantastic role model to the other junior athletes in our club and we are excited to see what he achieves in the future,” Matthew said.

Tweed Valley Triathletes promotes the sport of triathlon across the Tweed region, conducting club events at the Tweed Regional Aquatic Cen tre, Murwillumbah each Saturday morning from September to March.

The club has a strong junior focus and caters for all ages eight years and up and new members and visiting

triathletes are welcome to the Satur day morning events.

The Backstreet Boys

Just George, (Erin Kill absent) Shane Preston, Ben Allsop, Luke Hutchinson

Cudgen Headland Girls

Refugees, hosts, and Cudgen Headland lifesavers gathered for a picnic at Kingscliff with swimming and kayaking

Real Estate

FROM COAST TO COUNTRY

House building costs rise and rise

By Madeleine Murray

THE HOUSE-building industry has sailed into the perfect storm of disasters.

Everything has conspired to drive costs up exponentially in the past two years which is good news if you are trying to sell an established home.

First, there was COVID when everyone learned the meaning of supply chain.

For months there was no pine in the timber yard, no glue for the tiles, no parts for the pump, or computer chips for the smartphones and laptops.

Then the war in Ukraine (and subsequent price gouging by oil companies who have been raking in record profits), caused the price of fuel to increase drastically, and with it everything that was transported, which is pretty much everything, ultimately.

Floods created a surge in demand for labour and materials.

Catastrophic bushfires caused councils to tighten building regulations in high-risk fire zones. One couple that lives in a highflame area found it would cost

them almost $1.5 million to build a house with double-glazed windows, and double-brick walls.

A local businessman put in a DA 13 months ago, to extend the premises behind his business.

“The DA was approved after 13 months, at the cost of over $120,000. In that time, the building material prices went up exponentially,” he told The Weekly.

“We had a budget of $900,000 about 18 months ago. Now it’s $1.5 million, and rising.

“No builder will accept a fixed price contract these days, they are all cost-plus. But most banks don’t lend to a cost-plus, they want a fixed-price contract.”

“Concrete went up dramatically, steel in some cases had gone up 500 per cent.

“Labour has gone up at least 50 per cent, and it’s so hard to get. Some tilers are charging $1000 a day.”

According to CoreLogic’s Cordell Construction Cost Index, residential construction costs increased by 11 per cent over the 12 months to September.

CoreLogic Construction Cost Estimation Manager John Bennett

Open Homes

Saturday, October 22

First National Open homes

said the Cordell costing team was continuing to see costs rising, especially across timber and metal materials, which was affecting framing and reinforcing.

“In particular we are recording significant volatility in prefabricated framing,” he said.

“The range of products affected by higher building material costs is only growing, with many suppliers having little choice but to pass on price increases.

“This quarter has also shown a larger increase in the cost of wall linings, including plasterboard and fibre cement, which

10 Culbara Place, Stokers Siding – 12.30 – 1pm 10 Fawcett St, Tumbulgum – 1-1.30pm 4 Ted Brown Close, Kunghur – 1.15 – 1.45pm 150 Midginbil Rd, Midginbil – 2– 2.30pm 95 Starlight Way, Pumpenbil – 3.30 – 4pm

McGrath Real Estate

Thoroughbred Place, Bungalora- 9-9.30am 3/49 Dutton Street, Coolangatta 10-10.30am QLD time

MANA Real Estate

7 Saddle Way, Murwillumbah. Sat 10-10.30am

18 Dorothy Street, Murwillumbah. Sat 12.30-1.00pm

16 North Head Road, New Brighton. Sat. 12.30-1.00pm

1D Short Street, New Brighton. Sat 9.30am-10.00am

1/3 Halyard Court, Ocean Shores. Sat 10-10.30am

14 Narooma Drive, Ocean Shores. Sat 10.30-11.00am

33/19 Elizabeth Street, Pottsville. Sat 9-9.30am

previously had been relatively stable.

“It will cost you more to get into your house too, with the price of doors showing a sharp rise in the last quarter.”

The spiralling cost of raw materials, labour, and fuel has driven prices up, as have all the indirect effects of the war in the Ukraine.

Even waste disposal fees have risen this year.

All these increases have a flow on effect to the last person in the chain, the person building or renovating a house.

Mr Bennett said the industry is facing significant additional challenges each quarter, with suppliers having dealt with the impact of rising fuel, freight and electricity to their bottom line for more than 18 months.

“A shortage of labour and more expensive overheads continue to have a bearing on the industry,” Mr Bennett said.

“Its impact on the residential construction industry has not been lost with ongoing delays to completion times and a blow out to builders holding costs during a period of market change.”

DJ Stringer Property Services

4/143 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga 9-9:30am

3/22 Musgrave St, Kirra 10-10:30am (QLD TIME)

213/20 Binya Ave, Tweed Heads 10-10:30am

1/102 Panorama Dr, Tweed Heads West 10-10:30am

8/13 South St, Kirra 11-11:30am (QLD TIME)

2124/14-22 Stuart St, Tweed Heads 11-11:30am

1025/14-22 Stuart St, Tweed Heads 11:30-12pm

3/12 Marian St, Tweed Heads West 12:30-1pm

45 Avondale Dr, Banora Point 1-1:30pm

11 Mourne Tce, Banora Point 2-2:30pm

Tate Brownlee Real Estate

1/85 Henry Lawson Drive, Terranora 10:00-10:30am

4 James Cooks Dr, Banora Point 12:00-12:30pm

35 Old Ferry Road, Banora Point 1:00-1:30pm

24 Parkes Lane, Terranora 2:00-2:30pm

119 Smiths Creek Road, Smiths Creek. Sat 1.45pm -2.15pm

Auction 14 Narooma Drive, Ocean Shores Sat 22nd after open home

We’re here to connect the property dots

12 Ribbonwood Pl, Terranora 2:30-3:00pm

Combining the character and style of a bygone era with all the conveniences of contemporary living, this charming timber cottage is certainly a surprise package and offers loads of space for quality living and entertaining.

the welcoming front verandah, you’ll discover a stylishly renovated family home offering two living areas upstairs, plus huge under house areas for storage, games area and outdoor entertaining. There’s plenty of space for your children and pet to play safely in the fenced back yard.

the beach and come home to

laidback sophistication in this breathtaking large fourbedroom home in the eco-sanctuary, Koala Beach,

With deluxe, high-end finishes throughout, impressive street appeal, fully landscaped gardens, and skyline ocean glimpses from upstairs, this showstopping home will not be on the market long.

the ultimate blend of characterful charm and

sophistication, this classic 1930’s residence has been extensively renovated and

with Creek Frontage

If you’ve been dreaming of the ideal country haven, where you can retreat and recharge, this well-maintained lifestyle acreage property is certainly worthy of your inspection. There’s plenty of room for children and pets to run around 6614 square metres or approximately 1.63 acres of park-like lawns and gardens, you’ll feel like you’re living on a golf course. With a frontage to pretty Smith’s Creek, the family will enjoy cooling off in their own swimming hole plus you even have a small water cascade to enjoy.

village

Coast’s best kept secret, this attractive brick and

freestanding villa is sure to please those seeking a low

lifestyle. Conveniently located right in the heart of town, you’re just a short, level stroll to the local shops, Mooball Creek and the pristine Pottsville beach.

back, relax and enjoy a quiet cuppa on the front verandah,

entertain your family and friends in the covered patio

the nature reserve at the rear of the property.

pristine

largely

of the Far North Coast, this private 5-acre

business

just 20 minutes south of Murwillumbah and only 30

north of Byron Bay, this attractive acreage property is

for the savvy buyer seeking fresh air and laidback country

combined with an environmentally friendly business.

Set in a quiet cul-de-sac in Banora Point, Clifton Walk is a tightly held Neighbourhood Plan comprising 10 individual homes on freehold, easy care parcels of land serviced by a shared driveway.

The handy location is just around the corner from the thriving Banora Shopping Village, where the tenants include Coles, chemist, medical centre, newsagent, post office and approximately 25 other retailers & service providers.

Twin Towns’ Club Banora is 500 metres from your front door offering a variety of sporting facilities including golf, bowls, tennis courts and pools as well as dining and entertainment options which are all popular with the locals and their families.

• Immaculate presentation throughout

• The spacious and functional low set home has been adapted in some areas to aid people with mobility issues

• Compact, fully enclosed 352 sqm block of land with low maintenance gardens and grounds

• 5 minute drive to Tweed City Shopping Centre

• Easy access to the motorway, Gold Coast Airport, patrolled beaches and all other amenities

• Generous double garage and oodles of storage space

• Choice of 2 covered alfresco areas provide year round and all weather outdoor entertaining options

• A short stroll to the picturesque Lake Kimberley walking circuit where you can enjoy watching the swans, water hens and other birdlife as you wander around the lake

• Ideally suited to down sizers, active retirees or busy professionals

• Genuine vendors are reluctantly selling their home after eleven enjoyable years.

• An inspection will not disappoint.

and motivated to sell!”

Situated in a quiet cul-de-sac in the popular Flametree Park Estate, this substantial low set residence was built approximately 20 years ago by the highly regarded Golden Edge Homes.

The unique position on the estate fronts a wide nature reserve that surrounds Trutes Bay. The owners treat the parkland as their own backyard and as a reward, get to enjoy the bushland outlook and the abundant wildlife. The functional, open plan design has casual, formal and alfresco zones and flows smoothly from space to space, providing numerous options for entertaining family and friends, but also areas to sneak away for a bit of quiet time.

• Immaculate presentation

• Three generous bedrooms plus study

• Large, centrally located kitchen with gas cooktop

• Fully enclosed, low maintenance gardens and grounds with plenty of room for the boat and caravan

• Short stroll to Banora Central shops where the tenancies include Coles, a medical centre and pharmacy

• Flat walk to Juniors Twin Towns, sports fields and primary & secondary schools.

• Many, many extras – solar panels & hot water, air conditioning, vacuum maid system, external sensor lighting, oodles of storage spaces plus lots, lots more

• Top shelf, well established neighbourhood

• The easy care and minimal maintenance of this home will suit busy families seeking more quality time together and will also appeal to grey nomads looking to lock it up, hook up the van and hit the road!