Tweed Valley Weekly, April 25, 2024

Calls to save Jack Evans

By Jo Kennett

THERE ARE calls for Jack Evans Boat Harbour (JEBH) to be dredged and sand pumped to the former beach area, for wave dampers to be replaced, and for the rock wall that protects the area to be repaired, in a bid to return the harbour to its former glory.

Tweed Heads resident Trevor Bathie says JEBH has been slowly silting up with “downstream river base and natural ocean sand — with the occasional load of sand brought in by (Tweed Shire) Council — for many years now.”

“It is time to dredge this beautiful waterway before it becomes unusable for many daily users, from elderly people exercising, kids playing, people paddling craft, surf club members and nippers training, recreational boat users and many other varied activities,” Trevor said.

“The English triathlete Olympic team were swimming for hours there last week under the guidance of local coach Phil Clayton.

“The area around the harbour has been beautifully upgraded over the last few years with the addition of a very successful and popular kids playground area, barbecue and shade sitting areas, with the latest skate and basketball playground very popular.

“Soon the northern beach timber ramp area will be demolished and replaced with a very modern and usable beach entry.

“Council almost weekly have a front-end loader or bobcat pushing sand back up on both beaches to replace what is washed and sucked back into the harbour.”

Trevor said that during big swells, sand and debris is washed over the public pathways and grass areas making it unsafe for the public.

“Over half of JEBH is barely waist deep at low tide and some boats have been stuck on the sand while anchored,” he said.

“The black steel floating bollards (wave dampers) at the north entrance, which kept swell from entering the harbour, were partly washed out to sea several years ago, with the remaining ones removed more

recently.

“As a consequence of this, and the river mouth silting up, waves created by the swell and shallow water are smashing onto the beaches, washing the sand back into the harbour again, exacerbating the problem.

“You could have surfed JEBH beach last week at low tide with the large swell on offer for the last ten days.”

Trevor says the infilling of sand has also deterred dolphins and rays, buried the seagrass and eroded the banks.

“The council redistributes sand at McMahon’s beach and at the north-western entrance to the harbour weekly, these costs used to dredge JEBH on a ten-year cycle would improve the habitat for fish, dolphins and recreational activities,” he said.

“I believe we need to dredge JEBH and pump the sand straight back onto the perimeter rocks, replace the north-east wave dampers near the divers’ steps to block the ocean swell coming straight into JEBH and increase the height and repair of the groyne wall along the river.

“Dredging of the harbour has always been frowned upon due to the sea grass growing there, but after speaking to several marine biologists and scientists, both here and overseas, I believe we should be doing the opposite.

“There is very little seagrass remaining due to the harbour being silted over by the sand and sludge, which an aerial view will show.”

Trevor thinks decision-makers need to come and see what JEBH looks like now “and not just rely on decades-old data.”

Read council’s response

Council is currently in the process of upgrading parts of JEBH with a comprehensive plan that does not include dredging, according to council’s Acting Director Sustainable Communities and Environment Jane Lofthouse.

“Council has no plans to dredge Jack Evans Boat Harbour,” she said.

“There have never been ‘wave dampeners’ in the harbour. Two small plastic booms were once located near the eastern entrance to the harbour with the aim of increasing safety in the area. However, they were continually damaged by wave action and flood and were eventually removed. There are no plans to replace the booms, however council has been advised that NSW Maritime is looking at safety issues at the location and has discussed this with local business operators.

“Council has been communicating with the NSW Government (Crown Lands) regarding the condition of the river training wall on the south-east side of the harbour (the wall that sits by itself with harbour one side and river the other).

“The river training wall is not owned or managed by Tweed Shire Council.”

Council is in the process of completing an upgrade of the central beach area adjacent to the park’s popular inclusive playspace via a $748,000 grant from the NSW Government.

The 12-week project is expected to be completed by the end of June (weather permitting), in time to be enjoyed next summer.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Do you agree with the idea to dredge Jack Evans Boat Harbour? Send us your thoughts via email to editor@theweekly.net.au

Aged care profits questioned

By Jo Kennett

LOCAL AGED care staff are calling for more transparency, saying they believe some providers, who are demanding more government funding, are pocketing federal funding increases, with unions saying the Royal Commission heard many examples of providers making big profits.

Union representatives also say there has been a failure by providers to comply with new workplace reforms and they don’t believe the federal government should give them any more taxpayer funds unless there is improvement in the quality of care for residents.

Two aged care workers spoke to The Weekly on the condition of anonymity. They said they are still understaffed and working conditions have gone backwards despite a federal government wage increase.

Continued on page 22.

Wave action and disintegration of the groyne. Photo: Trevor Bathie

Kindness of neighbours

I’m writing to express my profound gratitude for the lovely community of Crystal Creek and my wonderful neighbours.

I consider myself extremely lucky to have the privilege of living in this community.

My generous neighbours have helped me with a number of issues lately and this is really par for the course for where we live.

In March, my ride-on mower broke, and this was an extra concern, as the grass was already quite high.

My neighbour across the road mowed for me when he could have been doing other things with his time on the weekend.

Another neighbour not only drove me to the airport recently, but he texted me when I was overseas to see if I needed a ride home.

And finally, there was a very concerning septic problem on my property this past weekend that impacted both the house and business.

I was having trouble contacting a plumber on a Saturday, so I rang my neighbours who used to own the property to see who they use. In less than 10 minutes they were at my door ready to help and fixed the problem, saving me a potentially expensive weekend call-out with the plumber.

I look forward to whenever I can return the generosity and kindness my neighbours show me on a regular basis. I couldn’t ask for a better place to call home.

Lori Scinto, Crystal Creek Repair Mount Warning Road first

There has been a lot of discussion as to whether the Wollumbin summit track should be reopened.

Anyone who has driven along Mount Warning Road recently would know that the last thing Mount Warning Road needs at present is more traffic.

With the road washed away in the 2022 flood, there is still a one-way

detour with traffic lights and a bridge in disrepair with a huge concrete slab sitting in the river.

Deep potholes along the road and bank erosion are ongoing.

Before opening the summit track to thousands of people is considered, the priority needs to be the repair of Mt Warning Road.

K Edmunds, Murwillumbah

Councillors should decide mayor

The Tweed Shire mayor should definitely be elected by the other councillors (TVW, April 18).

They see the day-to-day diligence and true motives of others, they will be the ones working as a team, so they know best who will serve the shire in the best possible way.

When you introduce persons with big egos and other motives who are able to utilise publicity and media to gain exposure without putting in the hard yards of real work, it would cause great problems within for the other councillors and the voters would not see this.

Yes, internal voting is the safest way to get the right person to be mayor.

Joan Doris, Murwillumbah

Let the public decide our mayor

I one hundred per cent agree with Cr James Owen that there should be a public vote on the mayoral position, after all it’s the ratepayers who pay their wages. It should be based on work ethic, public confidence, ability to get things done that concern the public and not a popularity vote by other councillors. Personally, I know many who like Cr Owen as do I.

P Noble, Tweed Heads

Internet article a good one

Thanks for the excellent article in regards to internet issues across the Tweed Shire (TVW, April 18)

We live in Uki and since the big floods — internet and phone were down for many days — our internet

has been poor to non-existent ever since.

Before the flood it was pretty good. We have, many times, tried to alert Telstra to this issue, but we get nowhere and cannot find anyone to take any interest.

We have also spoken to the local member, but we were referred and ended up giving up.

We have had to buy Starlink at a high monthly cost.

I can’t believe the spin Telstra still puts out that 99 per cent of Australia is covered. Simply not true! We are in a popular area with many homes, we don’t even have NBN in the street after all the talk over the years.

I know you will receive many letters like this and I thank you for highlighting this huge problem.

Kay Moon, Uki Internet outrage

In reply to your story on “Motion on Internet” — in the last two months, using NBN and my laptop, there has been delays with connecting to the internet for both Telstra webmail and Google. Prior to this there has usually been reliable service

I am retired and use my laptop every day. I live in a complex at Leisure Drive, Banora Point and I am a pensioner who cannot afford to use Starlink as my connection.

Lesley Voss,

Banora Point Internet is bad in Murwillumbah

I would like to comment on the ‘Motion on internet’ story. We are on ADSL1 internet and we live on the other side of hospital hill in Murwillumbah. It is terrible. Three years ago NBN promised NBN but it still hasn’t delivered.

Tweed definitely needs an internet upgrade.

El Cipher, Murwillumbah Burringbar is bad for internet

I live in Burringbar and the internet

connection here is appalling.

Every week, nearly every day, we get notified our internet is down.

This has been going on for over a month now. There is not a reliable internet connection anymore. It used to be a lot better. It needs fixing.

I have a landline plus dish to tower connection. The old landline connection is disintegrating more and more each year, now the rest of the equipment doesn’t seem to work either Yes, get the government onto it.

Starlink sounds great, but is more expensive.

We pay enough already for this degraded system. It needs fixing now.

Joan Lake, Burringbar We pay the same as Tweed Heads

Pottsville internet is hopeless and the Telstra and Vodafone mobile phone service is down to one out of four notches and a lot of the time Vodafone doesn’t exist unless you go outside of your house.

We pay the same price as Tweed Heads residents and get worse service since I’ve been using the internet and phone service for the past 24 years in Pottsville.

Someone has to stand up and tell them how bad it is.

Graham McDonald, Pottsville Incurably religious

The need for meaning makes man incurably religious or worshipful. Christians find it easier to worship Jesus than to follow his example and precept: “love your enemies”. Oppressed Jews looked for a more militant Messiah. Islam’s founder accepted both Christians and Jews as People of the Book, until they rejected his version. The ultimate coercive control of thoughts, words, and deeds occurs when church and state combine, as in Marxism.

Many regard themselves as non-religious but have adopted a new religion with myths, mantras, cymbals of good and evil, clean and unclean, priests, prophets, and evangelists deploying

fear and guilt to save the world from an imagined apocalypse.

Its god-like ‘science’ says what we must believe and obey.

Global warming has morphed into global boiling, climate change into a climate crisis and climate science into a climate cult controlling our thoughts, words, and actions, what we can buy, do, and eat.

Those questioning its prophecies or dogmas are denounced as deniers.

This state-sanctioned religion now plunders the planet to pollute it with monstrous shrines (‘clean’ energy ‘farms’) which feather many nests and increase our cost of living and vulnerability to weather events.

D Weston Allen, Cudgen Domestic violence needs to stop

It was reported (ABC 22/4/24): “I wanted to kill him for hurting my child” Tanya Plibersek reveals daughter’s fight for survivors. She was being abused by her then-boyfriend.

With so much domestic violence and sexual misconduct prevalent in the community, people get sprung by mother nature early on with all this sexual activity, before anyone can understand or know what is really going on. It is time to look at the root cause of these problems to be able to get any solution for them.

Firstly, nature divides people into male and female, which seems to be the ploy of existence for the survival of the human species.

Don Findlay, Coolangatta

Cap on councillor requests

By Jonathon Howard

THIS WEEK we continue our coverage of the recent cap on councillor requests to Tweed Shire Council staff following what many say is an “excessive” number of requests pushing council staff to breaking point.

A limit of 30 enquiries per month has now been set and Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis said she agrees with the cap.

“As Deputy Mayor, I am receiving dozens of requests for support and action on a particular issue most weeks,” she said.

“It’s important as councillors that we direct these enquiries to the ‘report a problem’ via Tweed Shire Council’s website.

“Once the resident has lodged their concern for action, we can of course follow up and emphasise the issue for staff to attend or action as well.

“I think give council about two weeks before going back to any councillor, we are not the first port of call, you can phone, attend in person or email council for any concerns relating to council services. But obviously, if it’s an emergency, of course you can call the emergency line via council and it will be actioned, as this is monitored 24/7.”

Cr Nola Firth said the recent high numbers of internal queries by some councillors “is certainly of concern”.

“This email inundation became so large it impacted the time available to staff, including senior staff, to undertake their duties,” Cr Firth said.

“It also meant that senior staff were having to attend to matters that should be being attended to further down the line. “I was certainly concerned about this, as we as councillors are all responsible for the effective functioning of council.

“I was also really concerned about what was happening in terms of staff health.”

Cr Firth noted that this year is an election year and “that this inundation of emails only began this year.”

“For the rest of the term there was no problem like this whatsoever,” she said.

“I am reassured, therefore, that at the March council meeting we passed a motion (moved by the mayor, seconded by myself) that renewed and strengthened our policy of councillors respecting the queuing process, not taking on the role of immediate solver of all problems, but instead requesting community members to first use normal council channels such as ‘Report a Problem’ and then, if there remains a concern, at that point, to approach a councillor.”

Cr Rhiannon Brinsmead said members of the community are approaching her on “an increasing basis” to address matters and issues, “that they feel are taking too long to be resolved after using the current systems, or that are not being addressed at all.”

“I have concerns about having to ‘triage’ the requests for assistance coming to me from the community now that a limit is to be placed on the number of councillor requests that I can make per month to council staff.”

“As an elected member I feel very strongly that my job is to serve the community and a councillor request cap could limit my ability to perform my civic duty.

“In my role as a councillor, I work for the Tweed Shire community and with Tweed Shire Council staff, and this difference should be noted.

“This is about finding the balance between staff wellbeing and ensuring that

councillors are supported so they can perform their elected role, which is to serve the community.”

Cr James Owen said he receives a high volume of correspondence from members of the community asking for assistance.

“People look to their elected representatives to help them. That is what we are elected to do, and I am committed to fulfilling this role,” he told The Weekly.

“People tell me that they contact me because they aren’t getting the level of support or customer service they expect from council.

“They tell me that it either takes too long for council to get back to them or they don’t hear back at all.”

Cr Owen said the Tweed Shire community are the customers, and they pay through their rates to be provided with multiple services.

“With that they expect a certain level of customer service,” he said.

“Residents have told me that they don’t feel like they are getting value for money.

“I believe that several councillors, and some senior management, are living in the past — we need to come into the present and look at how we can evolve to keep up with the ever-increasing demands.

“Customer service delivery is changing significantly, and whilst things may have been done a certain way in the past, those practices don’t work now.

“At the end of the day, I work for the community not the organisation.”

YOUR THOUGHTS: Do you agree with the cap on council staff requests from councillors to 30 per month? Send your thoughts and letters to editor@theweekly. net.au

Farewell to The Tweed Hospital

By Jonathon Howard

IN A decision that stirred emotions across the Tweed Shire, the historic site of The Tweed Hospital is set to close its doors on Tuesday, May 14, marking the end of an era for the community.

As preparations for the move to the new Tweed Valley Hospital ramp up, with less than a month to go, staff and community members will have the opportunity to say a fond farewell to the old hospital.

Community members are invited to join staff in a block walk and tree ceremony on Friday, April 26, from 2pm, to celebrate the 50-year legacy of The Tweed Hospital and acknowledge the contribution of all staff asso-

ciated with the hospital over this time.

The Tweed Hospital Acting General Manager, Adam Reid, said the hospital had a significant place in many hearts.

“The hospital has been central to the lives of many patients and staff over the years,” Mr Reid said.

“Your workplace often becomes a second home, and this is particularly so for our close-knit teams, who are like family.

“We have many staff who have worked here for more than 30 years, and some who have been here for the whole 50 years.

“No matter how long, it’s a significant change to move to the new hospital.

“We are very excited to be moving to

the new facility, but it’s also important to acknowledge and pay tribute to our history here.”

The final farewell will take place at the Loading Dock, behind the POD.

The block walk will follow Solander Street, Powell Street and Florence Street.

A farewell ceremony will be held after the walk.

Ms Reid said a tree and soil will be gathered from The Tweed Hospital site on the day, to be placed at the new Tweed Valley Hospital campus on a separate occasion.

Established in 1974, The Tweed Hospital has served as a cornerstone of healthcare for generations of residents, providing vital medical services and care to the local population.

For many residents, the Tweed Hospital holds sentimental value, serving as the birthplace of their children, the site of life-saving surgeries and a beacon of hope during times of illness and injury.

Its closure represents the end of an era for Tweed Heads and the beginning of a new chapter in healthcare at Cudgen/Kingscliff.

The decision to close The Tweed Hospital had been met with disappointment. Health authorities cited several reasons for the closure, which included ageing infrastructure, increasing maintenance costs, and the need to consolidate healthcare services to improve efficiency and streamline operations.

Following the closure, Tweed Val-

ley Hospital will ensure residents continue to have access to essential medical care.

As The Tweed Hospital prepares to close its doors for the final time, the community is left reflecting on its legacy and looking to the future of healthcare in the region.

There are still around 13 vacancies at the new Tweed Valley Hospital to fill including an air-conditioning mechanic, handy person, gardener and other health-related roles.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND MEMORIES: The Weekly would like to hear your thoughts and experiences at The Tweed Hospital over the years?

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

Tears of joy and ready for the next chapter of public health from The Tweed Hospital to the new Tweed Valley Hospital are the Emergency Department staff

Last week we each used

181 L a day

ANZAC Day events across the Tweed

The Tweed community will come together in their thousands this Anzac Day to pay their respects and remember those who have served and continue to serve the nation during times of conflict.

Council staff have been tending to war memorial sites across the Shire in recent weeks, ensuring the locations are prepared ahead of activity this Anzac Day.

The Tweed’s cenotaphs, monuments and hardstand memorial areas have been pressure-cleaned and a fresh coat of paint applied to some sites ahead of services this Thursday 25 April. Surrounding lawn areas will also be freshly mowed and gardens tended to in the lead up to the day.

Tweed

ANZAC Day services

• Burringbar: Assemble adjacent to Memorial Reserve, Masterson Park at 9:50 am for march to memorial. Service to commence at 10 am.

• Cudgen: Dawn service at Cudgen War Memorial at 4:28 am sharp.

• Kingscliff: Dawn service at Rowan Robinson Park starting at 6 am. March – assemble on Marine Parade at the front of Kingscliff Beach Bowls Club at 10:15 am. March heads south towards Rowan

Robinson Park. Main service – assemble at Rowan Robinson Park at around 10:30 am. The service will commence following completion of the march.

• Murwillumbah: Dawn service at the cenotaph commencing at 5:30 am (assemble at 5:15 am). March - assemble on Brisbane Street at 10:10 am. Schools and other organisations assemble on Main Street opposite the Post Office at 10:10 am. March begins at 10:30 am, followed by the cenotaph service at 10:45 am.

• Pottsville: March – assemble at Pottsville Beach Chemist at the intersection of Berkley’s Lane and Coronation Avenue at 7:30 am for a 7:45 am start. The march will depart along Coronation Avenue then head along Tweed Coast Road to the cenotaph at ANZAC Park. The main service will be held at the cenotaph at 8 am.

• Tumbulgum: Dawn service at the Memorial Gates in Bawden Street commencing at 4:28 am.

• Tweed Heads: Dawn service at Chris Cunningham Park commencing at 5:55 am. March – assemble at Chris Cunningham Park for a 10:30 am start. Main service also at Chris Cunningham Park at 11 am. There will be a livestream of the service at Twin Towns Showroom from 10:30 am.

In brief ...

Temporary road closures: Kingscliff Council is stabilising the asphalt along Marine Parade (between Beach and Turnock streets) and Turnock Street (from Marine Parade to Pearl Street). Works will start on Monday 29 April and be undertaken on weekdays from 7 am to 5 pm. The works will take about 3 weeks to complete, weather permitting. Crews may also need to work some Saturdays, between 7 am and 1 pm.

Sections of Marine Parade and Turnock Street will be temporarily closed during work hours from Wednesday 1 May to Friday 3 May to allow for pavement stabilisation and sealing. Detours will be in place.

On other days, there will be temporary lane closures during work hours, which may cause delays of up to 10 minutes.

On-street parking will be restricted during work hours while these works are underway. There will be limited access to some properties and driveways within the work zone during work hours. Please ask our traffic controllers for help if you need access. Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/roadworks for more information.

• Tyalgum: Dawn service at Tyalgum Memorial Park commencing at 5:30 am (assemble at 5:15 am).

• Uki: Dawn service at memorial opposite the school, 4:15 am for 4:28 am start, followed by Gun Fire Breakfast at the community hall.

Sign up for Council ’s new Tyalgum Road SMS alert

Residents can now stay up to date on the status of the temporary track at Tyalgum Road –particularly during significant rain events – by signing up to Council’s new SMS alert service.

A temporary track was opened in October last year to restore connectivity to Tyalgum Road while work continues on the permanent fix at the extreme landslip site, caused by the 2022 flood.

The track – nicknamed ‘The Crack’ by locals –operates under traffic light control, with automatic gates at either end able to control access if required.

The track remains open 24/7 but could close in the event of significant ground movement and/or heavy rainfall, to ensure public safety and project integrity.

The slip site is being closely monitored and there are triggers in place which prompt changes in the status of the road. To understand this process, visit the new Tyalgum Road temporary closure trigger page at tweed.nsw.gov.au/tyalgum-extreme-slip

To help alleviate concerns for local residents, Council is now offering a SMS service to alert residents to any imminent changes to the road’s status – in addition to updates already provided through Council’s social media platforms, website and digital VMS boards on the road.

The service is free to residents who subscribe at the above link.

When one of the 3 levels listed below is triggered, subscribers will receive a text message alert to the mobile number provided:

• Red: Road closed – SMS when road closes

• Amber: On watch – SMS when on/off watch

• Green: Road open – SMS when road reopens Subscribers will be able to opt out of the service at any time via the link included in every SMS message. For the latest traffic information, visit livetraffic.com To follow the Tweed’s flood restoration program, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-restoration-works

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

Remembering the animals who have supported Australia’s service men and women in times of conflict at Pottsville Beach Cenotaph, Anzac Day 2023.

Council staff repainting the ANZAC Memorial at Remembrance Place, Murwillumbah ahead of ANZAC Day.

Residents are urged to sign-up to Council’s new SMS alert system on the status of the temporary track on Tyalgum Road.

Museum launches 20th anniversary exhibition

The Tweed Regional Museum has unveiled its stunning new exhibition, Omnia: all and everything, as part of celebrations to mark its 20th anniversary.

Omnia invites visitors on an immersive journey through the vibrant history, dynamic present and promising future of the Tweed Shire.

Guests are invited to see the familiar in an entirely

Development application determinations

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

Application details

Approved

DA23/0633 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including carport in the front building line and in-ground swimming pool

Lot 1 DP 835350, No. 53 Broadway, Burringbar

DA24/0016 – Above-ground pool, pool fence and use of existing altered front fence

Lot 7 DP 617837, No. 1 Hunter Street, Burringbar

DA22/0806 – Use of unauthorised works and proposed dwelling

Lot 4 DP 1223634, No. 435 Byrrill Creek Road, Byrrill Creek

DA24/0027 – Use of pool, deck and patio cover

Lot 87 DP 1186602, No. 14 Lobelia Crescent, Casuarina

DA24/0025 – Decommissioning of existing dwelling, demolition of existing dwelling addition and new dwelling with carport

Lot 10 DP 785032, No. 19 Alroy Lane, Dunbible

DA23/0532 – Carport forward of the building line

Lot 1 DP 251365, No. 35 Reserve Creek Road, Kielvale

DA23/0431 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including a carport within the front building line and use of rear roofed deck

Lot 31 DP 873094, No. 26 Kingfisher Circuit, Kingscliff

DA23/0640 – Verandah addition to existing dwelling

Lot 132 DP 1202149, No. 57 Sailfish Way, Kingscliff

DA24/0019 – Dwelling and detached garage

Lot 2 DP 598970, No. 235 Limpinwood Valley Road, Limpinwood

DA23/0601 – Alterations and additions to an existing dwelling

Lot 129 DP 1139107, No. 37 Coral Fern Circuit, Murwillumbah

DA24/0061 – In-ground swimming pool and 1.8 m high front fence

Lot 18 DP 259697, No. 54 Hall Drive, Murwillumbah

CDC24/0027 – Swimming pool

Lot 3 DP 873343, No. 14 Pinegold Place, Nunderi

DA23/0600 – Staged development for alterations and additions to an existing dwelling, including detached garage, carport, swimming pool and use of existing shed and 2 m boundary fence

Lot 432 DP 755701, No. 6 Anne Street, Pottsville

DA23/0525 – Two storey dwelling with attached garage and swimming pool

Lot 518 DP 1275215, No. 10 Kosciuszko Street, Terranora

DA23/0624 - in-ground swimming pool

Lot 55 DP 260022, No. 3 Jewel Court, Tweed Heads

DA24/0008 – Use of retaining wall and associated earthworks

Lot 76 DP 29195, No. 44 Panorama Drive, Tweed Heads West

DA23/0278

new light, pushing the boundaries of conventional museum displays, offering multiple layers of engagement for all visitors.

Curated into unusual themes, these objects aim to intrigue and engage visitors by exploring stories such as community resilience, discomfort and danger. A dedicated section titled Tall Tales and True delves into 5 intriguing stories from the collection, inviting visitors to ponder their authenticity.

The exhibition introduces a stunning new rainbow gallery, a wonderland of colour where you can spin a zoetrope, have a chat through vintage rotary phones and find your special place on a giant magnetic map. Visitors can step into the immersive world of ‘Mini Murwillumbah’, where wild stories of fires, swamp beer and ghosts intertwine with iconic buildings against the backdrop of Wollumbin.

Join Curator Erika Taylor for Sips and Stories, a tour of Omnia that is full of captivating stories, tall tales and hidden treasures, with more information and booking details at museum.tweed.nsw.gov.au/Omnia

Sips and Stories – 4:30 - 5:30 pm

• Friday 17 May 2024

• Friday 21 June 2024

• Friday 20 September 2024

• Friday 18 October 2024

The exhibition is open until 23 November 2024.

See regenerative food production in action

Farmers interested in regenerative approaches to growing food can learn from local experts at a walk and talk in Duranbah next week.

Young Tweed farmer Tobias O’Grady and Council’s Sustainable Agriculture Program team will guide interested participants through Tobias’ fruit and vegetable production system.

Tobias will be on hand to chat about his regenerative approaches to food production including organics, biodynamics, agroforestry, permaculture and syntropic farming practices. He’ll also talk about farm leasing and the challenges faced by young and new farmers.

The event will take place on Thursday 2 May from 1 to 3 pm.

Register to join at events.humanitix.com/farm-walkand-talk-hosted-by-tobias-o-grady-and-tweedshire-council

In brief ...

Briefings for election candidates

Find out more about what is involved in being a Councillor at one of four briefing sessions due to be held in the Tweed.

Former Lismore Mayor Jenny Dowell will host the candidate briefing sessions in the lead up to the NSW Local Government election on 14 September.

The briefing sessions will be held on Tuesday 7 May in Tweed Heads and on Tuesday 4 June in Murwillumbah. A morning and evening session will be held on both dates.

Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/council-elections to find out more and book your spot.

Enjoy the immersive new Rainbow Gallery at Omnia: all and everything – now open at Tweed Regional Museum.

Tweed farmer Tobias O’Grady is keen to share his experiences with regenerative approaches to growing food.

Double demerits

TWEED MOTORISTS are being reminded by the police that double demerits will be in force for Anzac Day and the weekend.

Double demerits started on Wednesday morning, April 24, at 12.01am and ends at 11.59pm on Sunday, April 28.

Higher fines and double demerit points will apply for offences such as speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, driving under the influence, or using a mobile phone illegally.

Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole said there will be a focus on drink and drug driving.

“Many people like to enjoy themselves on Anzac Day by partaking in a game of two-up or sharing a beer with a mate. No matter your plans, there is no excuse for getting behind the wheel after drinking,” he said.

“We often see people underestimate the effects

of ‘a few drinks’ and take the risk of driving. Even the morning after a night out, alcohol can still be impeding on a driver’s ability to function properly.

“If you plan on drinking on Anzac Day, make a plan B. Leave the car at home and use public transport.”

It is anticipated many residents of NSW will stretch the Anzac Day public holiday into a long weekend by taking Friday off work. It is also the final weekend of school holidays. This will result in higher traffic on roads across the state. Speeding, fatigue and drink and drug driving remain the biggest killers on NSW roads and the NSW Police Force will be out in numbers ensuring that if you do the wrong thing, “you will be caught”.

Boyd Street site approved

THE NSW Land and Environment Court has granted development consent for a multi-million-dollar residential flat building at 41-43 Boyd Street in Tweed Heads.

The court overturned a refusal from Tweed Shire Council and has granted development consent with conditions for the nine-storey residential flat building, following a legal battle between the applicant, Harry Ghamraoui, and council.

The development application (DA22/0795) proposed the construction of a residential complex comprising 53 apartments, along with associated car parking, civil works, and landscaping.

The proposed cost for the development is estimated at $15,479,000.

The court’s decision, delivered by Commissioner Timothy Horton, upheld the appeal and granted development consent to the amended application.

The ruling included granting leave to amend the development application, acknowledging the applicant’s written request to justify contravention of the height standard under the Tweed City Centre Local Environmental Plan 2012, and ordering the payment of costs incurred by the respondent due to the application’s amendment to the sum of $7,500.

Gold Coast Airport invites the community to have their say on the 2024 Preliminary Draft Master Plan (PDMP) from now until 14 June 2024.

The PDMP outlines Gold Coast Airport’s strategic vision for the next twenty years, with an initial focus on the next eight years up until 2032.

Public information sessions on the plan will be held at various locations during community consultation. To find out more information and to download a copy of the plan and have your say, visit www.gcamasterplan.com.au

Knife crime operation

By Jo Kennett

A MAJOR police operation across NSW, launched two days before the Bondi Junction stabbing murders of six people, has resulted in the seizure of knives and a number of arrests, with police saying carrying a knife in public “without a justifiable reason” is a crime with a maximum penalty of four years in jail.

Operation Foil ran from 1pm Thursday, April 11, until 1.30am Saturday, April 13, and saw more than 800 officers from every police district in NSW — assisted by specialist officers from Youth Command, Police Transport and Public Safety Command, and Traffic and Highway Patrol Command — target knife crime and anti-social behaviour.

Police said that during the high-visibility operation, 51 knives/weapons were seized, with 145 people charged with weapon-related offences, including seizure of a firearm.

On the last day of the operation, six people were murdered at Bondi Junction and two clerics were injured in western Sydney days later, in a week of horror stabbings.

During Operation Foil, police also detected a number of breaches, including 51 people arrested over outstanding warrants, 170 drug detections, 1,065 traffic infringement notices issued, and 410 rail infringement notices issued.

Police also performed almost 5,000 random breath tests and 469 bail compliance checks.

Operation Pivot was also run in conjunction with Operation Foil, and is an initiative to reduce crime through early intervention and engagement with young people.

NSW Police said that since it began in 2021, Operation Pivot has seen police engage with more than 3,200 at-risk youths across NSW, and deliver anti-violence presentations to 987 schools, educating more than 180,000 students.

Detective Superintendent Darren Newman said the aim of Operation Foil was to remove weapons from the streets and make the community safer.

“Operation Foil was established to focus on knife crime and to get these dangerous weapons out of the hands of those individuals who may potentially use them to target other people,” he said.

“People need to understand that carrying a knife is illegal unless you have a justifiable reason.

“If you are armed with a knife and become involved in an altercation where someone is injured or even killed, you can face a substantial prison sentence.”

“We have also been working with our

Body found

A MAN’S body was recovered from the Tweed River

colleagues from Youth Command as part of Operation Pivot in attending schools and speaking with kids to deter them from knife crime.”

“Operations of this nature will continue to be run by police.”

In June last year, the Minns government passed legislation doubling the maximum penalties for the separate offences of carrying and wielding a knife in a public place or school from two years’ imprisonment to four years.

The reform came in the wake of the fatal stabbing of paramedic Steven Tougher in 2023.

There have been a number of people charged with the illegal possession of knives in recent months in the Tweed-Byron Police District.

Just before 9.15am, emergency services were called to Fingal Road, Fingal Head, after a passer-by reported finding a body in the water.

Officers from Tweed-Byron Police District, with the assistance of NSW Police Marine Area Command and Surf Life Saving NSW volunteers, recovered the body of a man believed to be aged in his 20s.

He was yet to be formally identified at the time of print, however, believed to be a man reported missing from the Gold Coast to Queensland Police earlier that day.

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the man’s death has commenced; however, initial inquiries indicate there are no suspicious circumstances.

“I can’t say how long the person was in the water,” Tweed-Byron Police District Inspector Matt Woods told the media.

“There doesn’t seem to be any suspicious circumstances but we are leaving all avenues and lines of inquiries open.”

A report will be prepared for the information of the coroner.

Knives of all types were seized

From kitchen knives to hunting knives, police are finding a range of weapons

at Fingal Head on Saturday, April 20

The body of a man was recovered from the Tweed River. Photo: Seascape Trawler Watch

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Telstra response

By Jonathon Howard

AUSTRALIA’S LEADING telecommunications company, Telstra, says Tweed’s mobile connectivity can be impacted by many factors including hills, valleys, and even tall trees — as the telco confirms it’s pushing Starlink for residents with poor connectivity.

Telstra’s response follows widespread outrage over reliability and connectivity from Tweed Shire residents, including Karin Schiller from Crystal Creek, who featured in last week’s edition (TVW, April 18).

Telstra’s regional general manager for NSW, Mike Marom, spoke at length with The Weekly about residents’ concerns, as well as confirming Telstra are now offering Starlink as an option. Mr Marom stressed that Tweed residents can gain internet access in a variety of ways.

“However, we know experiences and performance may differ in some locations,” he said. Mr Marom said it was important to separate mobile connectivity and home-based NBN connectivity.

“In relation to mobile technology, all three Australian mobile carriers have a good number of mobile base stations located across the shire, providing voice and data services across a mix of the 3G, 4G, and in some cases 5G networks,” Mr Marom said.

“However, mobile connectivity can be impacted by a range of factors including hills, valleys and tall trees, distance from a tower, the type of devices being used, or if an external aerial or booster is in use.

the area and currently are planning to co-locate mobile equipment on a proposed new Optus mobile site in Pottsville,” he said.

“We have also been working with Tweed Shire Council in recent times and are happy to continue our engagement to review areas that are challenged with mobile coverage, including any known blackspots.”

In regards to fixed line NBN internet services, Mr Marom wanted to encourage people to contact their service provider if they are having issues with NBN.

“The provider can pass on this information to the NBN to investigate,” he said.

Lastly, Mr Marom commented on Telstra now offering a discounted Starlink service.

“Telstra has recently begun offering a new satellite home internet plan using a Starlink-based service,” he said.

“This will provide an additional connectivity option for customers in rural and remote locations where distance and terrain make it difficult to provide quality internet connectivity. Telstra’s new satellite home internet plan with unlimited data is available for $125/month plus the $599 upfront purchase for the Starlink standard kit.”

The Weekly has put the same questions to Optus for comment and will print its response in next week.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Would you consider Starlink as your next internet service provider?

The Weekly would like to hear your thoughts and letters via email to editor@theweekly.net.au

Monday to Friday 7am to 430pm Saturdays 7am to 12pm

Complying to the current Biosecurity fire ant order.

25 Buchanan St, Murwillumbah NSW 2484

Email: materials@brims.com.au

Find us on Facebook at BRIMS Murwillumbah 91266

“In addition, indoor mobile connectivity can also be impacted by the type of building materials being used.”

He stressed that Telstra was always looking to boost mobile connectivity through the building of new sites or boosting capacity at existing base stations.

“However, we also seek to utilise other sites in

We must continue eradicating fire ants from Murwillumbah

When fire ants were found on a vacant block in South Murwillumbah it marked the first detection of this pest in northern New South Wales.

Thanks to the collaboration of all levels of government and the community, all fire ant nests detected to-date have been destroyed, and people are more aware and engaged with fire ant education.

The fight isn’t over though, the National Fire Ant Eradication Program must continue conducting surveillance and treatment up to 5 km from the detection to ensure there are no more fire ants present. This effort will continue in the target area for years to come, and the work will be done by experienced staff with minimal disruption to residents and businesses.

While only 2–6 mm in size, fire ants can have irreversible consequences on our environment. They can cause population declines in 45% of birds, 38% of mammals, 69% of reptiles and 95% of amphibians. Their harmful impacts could surpass the combined damage done each year by Australia’s worst pests.

Fire ant treatment is not a poison. It is tried, tested, and approved by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority and is safe for humans and animals.

The treatment is made up of small pieces of corn grit soaked in soybean oil and a low concentration of insect growth regulator.

Treatment can only be applied when conditions are suitable, which means rain, wind and unfavourable weather will impact the delivery and timing of treatment. We cannot treat if the ground is wet, and our aircraft cannot fly if it’s too windy.

Eradication treatment is the only proven way to eliminate fire ants and protect our way of life. It is our one option to safeguard Australia against this invasive pest.

The granules are collected by foraging fire ants and prevent the queen from reproducing worker ants – if the queen cannot reproduce workers, the colony will starve and naturally die out.

Nests are not always visible so it’s crucial that we continue to actively check and treat in the target area.

Overseas, where fire ant populations are much higher, communities are forced to change their lifestyle to avoid exposure to fire ants.

Fire ant expert and entomologist Dr Ross Wylie says we are eradicating fire ants using the best available methods internationally.

“Eradication involves treating targeted areas multiple times, over several years with an insect growth regulator. We can’t just treat once or twice, we need to keep coming back and use a systematic approach,” says Dr Wylie.

“We need to treat 100% of all targeted properties, whether fire ants are visible or not.”

The product contains pyriproxyfen, which is commonly registered for use with:

• horticultural crops – for treating whiteflies and scale insects

• animal flea collars

• fly control spray

• pest and parasite management for horses and cattle.

Fire ant eradication treatment contains a very small percentage of active ingredient. With 5 grams of active ingredient in each kilogram, this equates to only 0.5% of the total product and ensures minimal impact on flora and fauna with little chance for animals to source enough to affect their health.

The presence of fire ants in our environment is a much greater risk to local wildlife, pets, farm animals, and humans than the treatment itself.

On limited occasions when treating near waterways we use a product containing S-methoprene. This is used at extremely low concentrations – around 1/1000 of the concentration recommended as a safe level by the World Health Organisation.

It is vital every targeted property is treated – one missed nest will jeopardise eradication efforts.

We need landholders’ permission to access properties in New South Wales.

By completing a property information form, you can provide consent and specify access restrictions such as locked gates, animals, and waterways. We can work with you to tailor a treatment plan for your property.

Fire ant eradication is only possible if all levels of government, industry, and the community work together – now and in the years to come.

Visit fireants.org.au or call 13 25 23 for more information.

The target area covers up to a 5 km radius from the detection in South Murwillumbah.

Fire ant teams using handheld spreaders to treat.

PUBLIC NOTIFICATION OF 1080 BAITING

This notification is to advise all landholders within 1 kilometre of properties, Lots 4 and 23, 88 Round Mountain Road, Round Mountain; Lot 2, 209 Towners Road, Round Mountain; Lot 791 Pottsville Road, Cudgera Creek; Lot 2, Lomandra Avenue, Pottsville and Lot 379 Kelleher’s Road, Pottsville that 1080 fox/wild dog baits will be laid on the above-mentioned properties from 1 May to 31 August 2024.

Property owners are warned to keep their working and domestic dogs and cats confined to their property and ensure they do not enter the baiting location during and after poisoning. In the event of an accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

The primary purpose of the 1080 baiting program is to target foxes and to reduce the overall fox population in the study area to:

• reduce the known impact of fox predation on the Tweed Coast Bush Stonecurlew population, particularly predation of eggs and chicks during the Bush Stone-curlew breeding season

• reduce fox predation on other susceptible threatened species known to occur in the study area such as the Beach Stone-curlew and Pied Oystercatcher and minimise potential impacts on the endangered Tweed Coast koala population, particularly juvenile and young dispersing koalas.

For further information contact Sustainability and Environment, Tweed Shire Council on 02 6670 2400. 91601

Mayor has last word

By Jonathon Howard

FOLLOWING LENGTHY discussions around the election of the Tweed Shire mayor, Mayor Chris Cherry has echoed the views of Cr Warren Polglase in highlighting that a popularly elected mayor risks becoming a “lame duck”.

Debate around the mayoral position was reignited this month by Cr James Owen, who said many residents have told him they want a say in who becomes mayor.

This prompted a question on notice during council’s meeting on Thursday, April 18, in which councillors rejected the question of the people deciding the mayoral position.

Mayor Cherry was invited by The Weekly to comment on the matter and she said Cr Owen’s question on notice states that: “people are contacting (him) to ask how they can vote for the Tweed Shire mayor in the September election”.

“Obviously I am very humbled that people want to vote for me and I will do my best to fulfil the faith they are putting in me,” she said.

“Rest assured I will produce a ‘how-to-vote’ card closer to the election.

“On the question of the mayor being elected directly by the people, the reason that nearly 80 per cent of councils in NSW do not have this system is that you can end up with what is called a ‘lame-duck’ mayor — a mayor that does not have the majority support of the other councillors and is therefore unable to prosecute change in the council for the good of the people.

“I am not saying this happens every time, but the probability is a lot higher and can be very dysfunctional for a council.”

Mayor Cherry said councillors need to know that a mayor will represent the collective views of the councillors, as they are all representing different facets of the community.

“This is guaranteed by the peer-elected system,” she said.

“I am really glad that Cr Owen raised this

question again, as it is really important that the people understand how this system works and that if they want to change to the American presidential style election system, they need to be prepared for the unintended consequences.

“It is an unfortunate truth in our society that money talks and that more money talks louder.

“If it is accepted that the NSW Premier be chosen by peers to ensure government cohesion, surely it is also best for the Tweed Shire mayor?”

YOUR THOUGHTS: Do you agree that councillors should decide the mayor to avoid a lameduck mayor? The Weekly wants to hear your thoughts and letters via editor@theweekly.net.au

LAST WORD: Mayor Chris Cherry says a popularly elected mayor is not the best option

A

ailing shearwaters

picked up from Tweed beaches at Pottsville, Casuarina, Fingal and Tweed Heads at the weekend, and are now in the care of Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers. Seabird rescuer and short-term carer Mary Grant says the birds need to be more than 300 grams in weight to have any chance of survival.

“Carers can give them initial first aid,” Mary said.

“We really do need to try and save them because they are suffering from human impacts like climate change, or loss of fish stocks, and also from the wild weather.

“It’s imperative we give them a chance.” Mary said last year’s shearwater rescues were successful with an almost 100 per cent survival and release rate.

Shearwaters can travel thousands of kilometres to places such as Antarctica, Siberia, Japan, South America and New Zealand.

After gales or during food shortages, dead and dying birds are often found along the NSW coast.

If you find a shearwater on the beach that looks sick in the Tweed Shire, please call the Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers’ hotline on (02) 6672 4789. Do not attempt to feed or give water, keep the bird warm and quiet, away from pets and children.

A GROUP of local lifesavers, including the 2023 Australian Lifeguard of the Year, have arrived in Vietnam to help stage an international lifesaving event and train local lifeguards and community members.

After competing in the Aussie titles, Australian Lifeguard of the Year, Mariah Jones, and a group of Cudgen Headland lifesavers, including

Northern Region Lifeguard Supervisor Scott McCartney, and Tweed Supervisor Lachlan Field and his father David, have headed off to Vietnam for two weeks of drowning prevention training.

“Mariah, a Tweed Heads and Coolangatta SLSC member, will join the team to help stage Danang’s International Lifeguard Competition this Saturday, April 27,” David said. Continued on page 45 with photo.

Wildlife Watch by Yvonne Gardiner

By Jo Kennett

A shearwater found on Pottsville beach. Photo: Yvonne Gardiner

Fire ants split North Coast Bonsai Club

By Jonathon Howard

many years, bonsai enthusiasts from the border region have been able to par ticipate in the Gold Coast Tweed Bonsai Club.

However, the fire ant restric

tions mean that bonsai cannot be transported backwards and forwards across the border for club activities.

“Therefore, bonsai shows have been cancelled and NSW members have basically become passive members of that club,” Mr Bray said.

“To remedy this situation, we have started a new bonsai club, Tweed Border Bonsai Club Inc.

“It has taken some time and effort with lots of legal and administrative things to be put in place, but at last we are ready to

“Our very first meeting will be held at South Tweed Community Hall, Corner of Heffron and Minjungbal Drive, on Saturday,

If you would like to get involved with the all-new Tweed Bonsai Club, please register to attend their first meeting, by email ifkacz@ outlook.com or text to a mobile: 0426182093.

Locals express concerns

Continued from page 3.

“Every day we are short-staffed, and despite that, there is a reluctance to replace staff,” aged care nurse Helen said.

“We feel extremely unsupported in the workplace.

“I have been in aged care for decades, and financially it may have gotten better, but working conditions have gone backwards.

“We experience violence and abuse from residents daily because they aren’t receiving the care they need.

“There is an extreme lack of transparency with the funds providers receive from the federal government, and we feel they are going straight into the pockets of providers.

“There needs to be greater regulation around the federal government’s mandatory care minutes, as they aren’t being met in many facilities, and as a result, our residents are suffering.”

Another nurse said local aged care staff are tired and burnt out “because of our unbearable workloads.”

“We are frustrated that we can’t provide the care our residents deserve, and we feel like we are failing them every day,” the nurse told The Weekly.

“We feel like we are banging our heads against a brick wall, because nothing is improving, despite the recent aged care reforms.

“We need enforcement mechanisms so providers have to be accountable and comply with mandatory care minutes.

“We need to be able to perform our jobs safely, and provide quality care to our residents.

“Providers are dealing with dollar signs in beds, nurses on the floor deal with human beings.”

A delegation of Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), aged care nurses and carers recently travelled to Canberra to talk to the government about “the ongoing failures by providers to comply with the federal govern-

ment’s key aged care reforms.”

ANMF Federal Secretary Annie Butler said many aged care providers were cutting corners and failing to comply with the mandatory care minutes that came into effect last year.

“Our members are reporting that many providers are failing to meet the mandatory staffing requirements and are instead rearranging rosters to appear compliant,” Ms Butler said.

“They are removing roles like enrolled nurses (ENs) and replacing them with less qualified positions, which is unacceptable.

“Providers are also placing increased pressure on staff, by asking them to perform non-care work like serving meals and washing dishes.

“We continue to see a system buckling under pressure. We need to see providers step up, meet their obligations and be held to account, so residents don’t suffer poorer care outcomes.”

NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) General Secretary, Shaye Candish, said nurses and carers should be allowed to monitor compliance and identify risks, “to ensure aged care facilities are meeting quality standards.”

“They know exactly what goes on in their facilities,” Ms Candish said.

“They see the flaws in the system and know what needs to change to enable them to provide the care that every resident should receive.

“We also need to see greater financial transparency from providers.

“The federal government should not be topping up their funds with taxpayer dollars, while they are failing to improve the quality of care for older Australians.”

Shaye Candish

MURWILLUMBAH ARTS TRAIL

Join Parkinson’s group

By Jonathon Howard

THE TWEED Heads Parkinson’s Support Group is calling on those living with Parkinson’s and their carers to reach out and connect with an amazing group of locals.

The group meets at Twin Towns Club Banora Point every second Monday of the month where it has become a beacon of support for individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease.

The group provides a crucial space for sharing experiences, information and resources. The Weekly was invited to attend their monthly meeting and it was a pleasure to meet such a motivated and supportive local group, who are eager to engage and help others.

With a commitment to holistic care, the group regularly hosts guest speakers from various disciplines, according to the group’s president Marie Bakker, who is a carer for her husband.

“These professionals offer valuable insights, advice, and exercises to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for those living with Parkinson’s,” she said.

Support group member John Whiteman spoke of the group’s activities and urged others to reach out.

“Our guest speakers bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our meetings,” John said. “Their presentations cover a range of top -

ics, from mobility exercises to speech therapy techniques, providing us with practical tools to navigate life with Parkinson’s.”

Beyond the educational aspect, the support group also recognises the importance of social connection in managing Parkinson’s.

As such, on the fourth Monday of each month, members gather for a social event.

“The social events are a highlight for many of us,” Marie said.

“It’s a chance to unwind, have a laugh, and forge friendships with others who truly understand what we’re going through.”

The support group’s inclusive and welcoming atmosphere has made it a lifeline for many individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease.

Whether seeking information, practical advice, or simply a sense of belonging, members find solace and support within the group’s embrace.

“We’re more than just a support group; we’re a family,” Marie said.

“Together, we navigate the highs and lows of Parkinson’s, celebrating victories and offering a shoulder to lean on during tough times. It’s a bond that makes all the difference in our journey with this condition.”

To find out more please phone: 0418 989 445 or visit Parkinson’s NSW online www.parkinsonsnsw.org.au

PACIFIC BITUMEN

Raymond turns 100

By Jonathon Howard

TWEED HEADS local and beloved local figure

Raymond Wallace recently celebrated a remarkable milestone of turning 100 on April 18.

Born near Toowoomba at Crows Nest, Raymond’s life story is one of resilience, service, and love for his community.

Raymond’s journey began in Crows Nest, where he attended school until the seventh grade before venturing into the workforce.

Starting as a paperboy, he later found his place at the local butter factory, where he dedicated his time and efforts.

A significant turning point in Raymond’s life came through his passion for golf, a sport that not only brought him joy but also helped him transition back to civilian life after serving in World War II.

Local doctors recommended golf as a therapeutic activity for him, a suggestion that Raymond embraced wholeheartedly.

During WWII, Raymond served his country in the Middle East and Africa, facing the harrowing realities of war something he will never forget.

He narrowly survived the Battle of El Alamein and went on to serve in two stints in New Guinea and Borneo.

Reflecting on those tumultuous times, Raymond expressed gratitude for his survival and acknowledged the sacrifices of his comrades.

“I didn’t think I’d make it,” Raymond said.

“But we were all just doing what we were told.”

Raymond fondly remembers attending Anzac Day ceremonies with his comrades, now departed, reminiscing about the camaraderie they shared during wartime.

He cherishes the memories of marching alongside his mates, recognising the significance of Anzac Day for Australians and New Zealanders alike.

Throughout his century-long journey, Ray -

mond has faced numerous health challenges, including six major operations and a battle with cancer.

Yet, with the support of dedicated medical professionals and his indomitable spirit, he has persevered.

In celebrating his centenary, Raymond planned a grand event at the Seagulls Club, where friends, family, and community members gathered to honour his remarkable life. Raymond’s wife, Patricia Wallace, has stood proudly by his side, celebrating 73 years of marriage together.

The couple raised a son, Geoffrey, and a daughter, Raelene.

OPEN EVERY DAY

Tweed Heads resident Raymond Wallace is full of life and turning 100

Trio of plays at Uki

By Madeleine Murray

THE UKI MOON THEATRE will stage

Summer of Harold at the Uki hall from Friday May 10.

World-premiering at the Ensemble Theatre in Sydney in 2023, Summer of Harold by Hilary Bell is a trio of short plays about hope, adventure and obsession. Each play has different characters and focusses on a significant object.

In Summer of Harold, middle-aged Janet remembers her youth when she and another backpacker got a job as housekeepers for world-famous playwright Harold Pinter in 1984 London. The girls were terrified of making a major blunder in the grand household of Pinter and Lady Antonia Fraser.

In Enfant Terrible, a ceramicist named Gareth broods on his jealousy of a rival fellow potter who has had international success. Gareth decides on an inventive form of revenge.

Lookout is about the relationship of Jonathan and Rae on the cusp of a new life as they leave the Blue Mountains.

“The first one is very warm, very playful,” playwright Hilary Bell said. “In the second play it takes a very different turn so while it’s still a comedy, it’s much darker and uglier. In the third play, we go to a different place emotionally, psychologically, and even theatrically.”

Director Penny Irving liked the concept of three different plays on objects, especially when objects can evoke memories, emotions and time.

“My mother had a favourite chair, which she often sat in,” Penny told The Weekly. “When she passed three years ago, I

inherited her chair. When I sit in it, I always think of her, and now I have a strong attachment to the chair.

“Each of the three stories has an object which opens the door to the past, taking us down three very different pathways.

I really wanted to explore how objects can have a hold on us, but we can also be released from them too. I think that’s the magic of this play, something we can all relate to.”

In previous Uki Moon shows, Shelley McNamara starred in the one-woman show Mother, and Jane Thornton was in the two-hander House on the Lake.

Summer of Harold is on Fridays and Sat urdays May 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25 at the Uki Hall, 1464 Kyogle Rd. Doors open 6:30pm for a 7pm start. Chai tea, coffee, cakes and BYO available. For tickets, go to trybooking.com/CQEVP

Fashion show

LONGTIME LOCAL fashion retailer Chantilly Lace Boutique in Murwillumbah will host a special Fashion Show and Alfresco Dining event on Thursday, May 2.

The show will mark 20 years of Chantilly Lace helping make local look fabulous.

“We are hugely excited to celebrate two decades in Murwillumbah’s Wharf Street,” Chantilly Lace owner Lightly Sunlight told The Weekly.

The event will kick off at 6pm and costs $55 per person.

“The evening will feature live entertainment by local jazz duo and alfresco dining with canapés by Wild Thyme and gin and margarita bar hosted by Flutterbies,” she said.

“Come along and enjoy some exquisite fashion, delicious food and drinks with outstanding local music.”

For more information please contact Chantilly Lace on 0427 474 388 or email: Hello@chantillylaceboutique.com

Stephen O'Grady in Enfant Terrible

Jane Thornton and Shelley McNamara in Lookout

FOOTY TIPPING POINTS LADDER

PLENTY HAPPENING in the footy

world again with another super week of games.

The Storm continue to win close games, the culture of success is ingrained in them and shows week after week.

The Dragons are certainly exceeding expectations early doors and were pretty clinical against the Warriors.

Speaking of clinical what a 20 minute performance from the Dolphins to completely destroy a hapless Parramatta in Darwin on the weekend. It was beautiful to watch and also very concerning for the Eels the way they threw the towel in.

Brad Arthur has gone for young star Ethan Sanders at 6 this week, he is a wonderful young player with plenty of composure. It was a proper

points fest at Cbus on the weekend with 46 points scored in the first half before Manly scrapped home against the Titans who are 0/6 early doors and in desperate need of a win. They are getting closer and looked great at times but winning is contagious and unfortunately so is losing, they need a result quickly and a trip to NZ this week doesn’t make it any easier.

Reece Walsh turned on another clinic scoring two ripper tries after the Broncos bombed the Raiders to death.

Young Chevy Stewart had a nightmare but good on him for his efforts in the second half, the kid can play he just had a night to forget. The Bulldogs went super but also was exaggerated by an ordinary Knights team who to use the Matty Johns quite ‘Can really disappoint you’. The same could be said for the Cowboys who were very ordinary on the weekend against the Sharks who were very impressive.

The debut try from Stonestreet who credits

Luke ‘the Cooler’ Covell as his idol was superb and the celebrations after it was great and something the young winger will never forget.

On top after 6 rounds and looking good the Sharks early.

Sad news about Dale Finucane this week need-

ing to retire due to concussion symptoms. What a player he was and a great career he had, he was one of my favourites.

ANZAC weekend footy is always top shelf and some great tributes to the heros who went before us and continue to work for us today. The Dragons and Roosters are probably the pick of them.

Interesting read about young Bulldogs forward Jackson Topine taking the Bulldogs to court for damages after the infamous ‘penalty’ wrestling session last year for being late, watch this space that’s for sure.

Massive call this week was the news of Fisher-Harris leaving the all conquering Panthers to return back to NZ at the end of the year for season 2025. Well done to the Panthers for how they handled it and how it all occurred, it shows class and he deserves the chance to return. It is a great story how he moved here and lived in horse stables to get by early in his career in order to rise to 3 times premiership winner and NZ test captain - unbelievable player.

The rain played havoc with the NRRRL games on the weekend again (and the races!!) and several were washed out but the Mustangs got on the board against Evans Head at home.

See you at the footy. Quinny

Todd

Mick

Bobby

To our dear followers, readers and food lovers, To our dear followers, readers and food lovers,

We hope that you are all well. This month is a special month as it is the Market’s 13th birthday. We also have a small number of stalls who have been with the Market since it’s beginnings back when we were all just under the shed.

These wonderful stalls are Caldera Honey, Everest Farm Bananas, Sylva Lining Organics and Jumping Red Ant. Thank you to all of these stalls for their commitment to the market each and every week since the market started.

This also means it is our anniversary of using the Murwillumbah Showground as the Market’s home.

We are incredibly lucky to have access to such beautiful grounds and thank the Showground Land Managers and caretakers over the years. They keep our grounds looking beautiful, clean our toilets and much more. They have also provided our Market the space to grow over time – if we think back to 13 years ago when we first started there were just a handful of stalls and we had no idea our market would grow to what it is today.

We hope you enjoy this newsletter and look forward to seeing you at the market this month again for your fresh, local and seasonal produce.

With love and gratitude,

Claire

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

This month we also saw the long awaited return of Johny’s Garden at the market! How great has it been to have Toby and his stall return with more fresh, local, seasonal and also organic produce. Toby has had with him plenty of winged beans, sweet potato, pumpkin and garlic. If you haven’t already, do pop by to see Toby and welcome him back to the market.

Calling all porridge lovers! First and foremost, have you seen that Bron and Andrew have changed their name – they are now “Otherworld”. They also surprised us at the start of the month with the return of their porridge. It is incredibly exciting that porridge is back and it is as delicious as we remember – with the maple syrup, poached pears, blueberries and of course the sprinkle of pecan nuts – yum! So, if you have missed porridge over the hotter summer months now is the time to indulge again while the weather starts to cool off for winter.

You can now eat OKI Food at home! Junji is now stocking bottles of his BBQ sauce, onion sauce, sesame sauce and pickled ginger. In particular, Junji tells me that

they are delighted to introduce their onion sauce to us all. Their onion sauce is made from certified organic onions sourced from local farms – this sauce is also vegan and gluten free and can be used as a marinade, a dipping sauce for sushi rolls or appetizers, or even as a glaze for grilled vegetables or meat. Over at OKI Food you will also find Junji’s miso salmon, which is marinated with Japanese miso and is tasty and easy to cook with cooking time of less than 10 minutes.

If you are keen to start to grow some of your own food as many of you are it is a great time of year to start planting seedlings – and just in time for our abundant winter season. Over at Mad Mountain they have a wide range of seedlings ready and available ranging from kale, mustard greens, sorrel, coriander, perennial spinach and much more! Lyn and Tim also have a range of delicious jams, chutneys, relishes and teas so there is plenty for everyone!

There have been so many returns of seasonal produce this month and exciting things happening – so in a nutshell – avocados are back at Avocados from Burringbar, custard apples are in season over at Jumping Red Ant, Josephine pears

are in over at Costanzo Apples, parsley and pesto coriander is back at Byron Spice Palace and last but not least, new season Tweed River Pecans are also in stock now at Byron Spice Palace.

Lastly, we have a number of stalls who are currently on trial for a permanent position at the market – these stalls are Miele D’Oro with a range of beeswax skincare products, a selection of locally distilled spirits from Winding Road Distilling Co., postural alignment at Straighten Up, bread as medicine at Breadicine and a second coffee van – Epic Coffee. Please join me in welcoming these stalls to the market for their trials.

When and where?

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

Market contact details:

Market Manager: Claire Strodder

Email: manager@murwillumbahfarmersmarket.com.au

Mobile: 0415 328 672

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

Where: Mur willumbah Showground (via gate 5)

Tyalgum bell home

By Solar Chappel

IN A CAPTIVATING turn of events, a piece of Tyalgum’s past has resurfaced after 85 years, thanks to the concerted efforts of the Tyalgum Recreation Reserve Trust and the Tyalgum District Community Association (TDCA).

The ship’s bell from the SS Tyalgum, which met its fate off Flagstaff Beach nearly a century ago, has been rediscovered and acquired by the community following an unexpected Facebook post.

The serendipitous offer came from a descendant of the SS Tyalgum’s Boatswain, who unexpectedly put the bell up for sale.

Upon learning of this unique opportunity, the Tyalgum Trust and the TDCA swiftly mobilized to secure the historic artifact, recognizing its significance to the town’s heritage. President of the Tyalgum Trust Managers Mic Julien expressed his satisfaction with the decision to purchase and donate the bell to the community.

“It is important that this bell can be on public display in Tyalgum, perhaps in the Memorial Park,” Mr Julien said.

TDCA president John Kavanagh echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of showcasing such an extraordinary piece salvaged from the Tyalgum wreck.

“This bell deserves to be on full display for our community and visitors to Tyalgum alike,” Mr Kavanagh stated.

T he SS Tyalgum was 544-ton steamer constructed in 1925 at Port Glasgow in Scotland and belonged to the North Coast Steam Navigation Company.

Its tragic end occurred on August 25, 1939, as it encountered diffi-

culties near Tweed Heads during a voyage from Sydney.

Despite rescue attempts, the vessel was abandoned, with much of its remains buried under beach sand to this day.

Before being unveiled for public viewing, the Tyalgum’s bell will undergo meticulous restoration to ensure its preservation.

Once restored, it will find its permanent home at the Tyalgum Memorial Park, serving as a poignant tribute to the town’s lesser-known maritime legacy and offering a captivating glimpse into its past for residents and v isitors alike.

The TDCA extends an invitation to the community to join in celebrating the return of this lost treasure and the preservation of Tyalgum’s rich heritage.

Details regarding the bell’s official unveiling will be forthcoming in the following months, promising an event to remember.

Mic Julien (left) and John Kavanagh

A Charm Of Finches

By Madeleine Murray

BEAUTIFUL SISTERS Mabel and Ivy Windred-Wornes. known as Charm of Finches. are bringing their enchanting harmonies to The Citadel Murwillumbah on Friday May 3.

The Melbourne duo make dreamy, harmony-laden indie-folk music that is graceful and darkly bewitching.

In February 2023 the sisters spent a month in rural Nova Scotia recording with acclaimed Canadian producer Daniel Ledwell (Jenn Grant, Oh Pep!).

The result was their fourth studio album Marlinchen in the Snow which came out on Spunk! Records this month.

“It’s a haunting tale of how Marlinchen discovers the death of her stepbrother at the hands of her mother. This found its way into the title song.

“There’s lots of symbolism in the story but really it’s about female strength and intuition. Overcoming obstacles led by your inner voice is a theme in the album.”

The sisters have toured all over Australia, but they particularly love travelling up the east coast as there are so many special regional venues to play in.

“The Citadel in Murwillumbah is one of our favourites,” Mabel said. “The venue owners Rosie and Bondy have done an incredible job renovating the old Salvos Hall. It’s so cosy and lovely and the audience listens and appreciates every detail of the music.

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The sisters had worked with Daniel over the internet during the very long 2021 Melbourne lockdown. They recorded themselves bedrooms and then sent files over to Canada for Daniel to mix and send back.

Three years later they decided to go to Nova Scotia for a month in the depths of the Canadian winter and record a new album with the talented pro ducer.

“Bein g in the studio for a month in the snowy woods with a frozen lake at our door step brought back m emories of a Grimm’s fairy tale we were told as children called The Juniper Tree,” Mabel told The Weekly.

“It’s a very special treat for any musician to have that kind of attentiveness at a show. We can’t wait to return there!”

Gold Coast Chamber Orchestra proudly prese nts

The sisters started singing at ages 8 and 11, busking old-time tunes on the streets of Melbourne every weekend. Thirteen ears later Charm of Finches has three international tours, countless awards and four studio albums under their

Luminous Strings - Recital 28th March

They are currently touring Australia, UK, Canada and Sweden.

Supporting will be rising star singer-songwriter Riley Catherall. Prepare for an evening of soul-stirring songwriting and exquisite harmonies. m of Finches is on at 7:30pm Friday May 3 at The Citadel, Queen St Murwillumbah. For tickets and more info, o to charmoffinchesband.com, or thecitadel.com.au

m – 9pm nd Univ ersity |

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Concession $45 Students $25 Students under 18 free when accompanied by a paying adult

This concert includes a world premiere of poems by Seamus Heaney and Robert Graves, arranged for GCCO by Nicholas Routley & featuring soprano soloist Gaynor Donnelly. Arias by Handel & Mozart will feature & the strings of the GCCO will shine in a performance of a Mendelssohn String Symphony. gcco.com.au

DATE: Sunday 12th May 2:30pm–4:30pm

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91580

By Madeleine Murray

GET READY FOR GAVIN

WOODS’ Countdown Live in Concert on Friday May 10 at Twin Towns. The two-set stage extravaganza will transport the audience back to the heady days of Countdown, Australia’s favourite TV music show.

Live at Twin Towns

F or 13 years, Countdown showcased the finest from the music world both locally and internationally. Gavin Wood was the g olden-voiced announcer and occasional compere counting us into the show every Sunday night at 6pm. And Gavin is back again to host the Countdown Live show and bring you jam-packed performances from unpredictable shenanigans, just like the Countdown we all knew and loved.

The guest performers will belt out

sho w features Brian Mannix from Uncanny X-Men, Scott Carne from Kids in the Kitchen, Ally Fowler of The Chantoozies, Wilbur Wilde from Hey Hey It’s Saturday/Ol’ 55, and the Countdown orchestra.

Some of the hits include Young Turks, I’m Still Standing, Rebel Yell, Dancing Queen and Stayin’ Alive. “I am so thrilled to be working with my musical mates who I met on Countdown with Molly all those years ago,” Gavin told The Weekly. “What a line up and what a show! The stars will be singing their hits and other Countdown top songs. It will be a celebration of the television music show we all grew up with. There will be lots of fun and some stories that have never been told until this two-

Broadcast on the ABC from 1974 un87, Countdown was the most popular music program in Australian TV history.

Gavin Wood’s Countdown Live in Concert i s at 8pm on Friday May 10 at Twin Towns, Tweed Heads. For more info and tickets, go to twintowns. com.au

Reflection of a soldier

Poem by Paddy O'Brien

There is a mirror on the wall, that tells its story to us all. Our reflection is not alone.

As we look back, the life we’ve had, of all the good and all the bad. Our past now set in sand or stone.

When we were young and ever bright, adventures then would chase the light. For not one hour were we bored. Are we now invisible, though, to all the people that we know. As we ask: ‘Is old age ignored?’ Though life has ways to mend and heal.

Our daily life is like a meal. We pick and choose what’s on our plate.

We know there is a sun and moon, one peaks at night and one at noon. Success in life we know is great.

Those mirrors, they don’t tell a lie.

They see us when we laugh or cry, with questions asked now face-to-face. Eye-glasses mirrors do not need.

As age for some may come with speed, or take our hearts from place-to-place.

Mirrors do not predict a life, or choose for one a man or wife. Reflections tell of times gone by.

With bright days, could we ask for more, among the grief that saw a war. On beds of poppies, they would lie.

So slowly now we lose our hair, scorn a wrinkle that was not there. We try to impress, just ourselves.

We reminisce of better times, hills and mountains we chose to climb. Lost memories, now left on shelves. Our childhood dreams may fade and die.

The lifespan of a butterfly, when we were once a child at play. And clad in love forever then, like seedlings sprout until the end. Grows a lifetime without decay.

We see a painting on the wall, a reflection though, tells it all!

So, be content with what you see. An artist’s brush can tell a lie, but mirrors don’t, so do we sigh?

A mirror’s truth… it must be me.

Gavin Wood was the voice of Countdown for 13 years

Wilbur Wilde (Ol'55, Jo Jo Zep), Ally Fowler (Chantoozies), Brian Mannix (Uncanny X-Men), Scott Carne (Kids In The Kitchen)

1. What is the collective noun for a group of kangaroos?

2. Where in Australia was Story Dogs first trialled?

3. A Lismore-based Koala advocacy group is called Friends of the Koala or Koala Kindness?

4. What is the name of the outgoing Australian Governer General?

5. What is the common name for Burhinus grallarius?

1. a mob, 2. Murwillumbah, 3. Friends of the Koala, 4. David Hurley, 5. Bush Stone-curlew

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Lifesavers in Vietnam

By Jo Kennett

Continued from page 18.

“Athletes from around the ASEAN region including Taiwan, Philippines, Myanmar and Sabah Malaysia will be represented at the event.

“Then the team will conduct lifeguard training, safety activities for children and adults and run free community CPR/First Aid sessions in Danang and Hoi An, in-country as guests of the Danang local government department responsible for managing Danang’s beaches.

“I toured last year under an DFAT ASEAN Friendship grant and even though we weren’t able to secure funding this year we were all happy to pay our own way because the work we

do there is so important and the Vietnamese are so appreciative,” Mariah, a Bundjalung woman, said.

David said that Cudgen Surf Club has been involved in lifesaving development in Vietnam since 2014 and sponsors Vietnamese people to come to Australia to gain specialist lifesaving training.

“The latest recipient sponsored by Cudgen, Thin Vu, is also our interpreter and he is a really good CPR trainer so we assist him in the delivery of the Community CPR,” David said. It will be a busy two weeks for the team and after that David is heading off to Denmark to work as a lifeguard over their summer.

Slowing Norths Lane

By Jonathon Howard

A SPEED reduction was rolled out at Norths Lane in Nunderi this week, reducing the speed from 70km per hour to 60, but one resident feels the limit should be reduced to 50km per hour.

Norths Lane resident Robert Marat delivered a flyer to Nunderi residents this week urging them to write to the Tweed Safety Officer at Tweed Shire Council calling for a further reduction.

A Tweed Shire Council spokesperson told

The Weekly that Transport for NSW made the decision to adjust the speed zone a few months ago and the install was scheduled for Monday, April 22.

Council said the recommendation was that the existing 70km per hour speed limit on Norths Lane from Clothiers Creek Road to 95 metres north of Seven Oaks Road be reduced to 60km/h, a distance of approximately 950m.

“It is recommended that the existing 100km/h

speed limit on Norths Lane from 95m north of Seven Oaks Road to Eviron Road be reduced to 80 km/h, a distance of approximately 520m,” Council’s report from Transport for NSW read.

“It is recommended that the existing default 50 km/h speed limit be retained on all side roads off Norths Lane.”

Mr Marat’s flyer encouraged residents to write to council calling for a 50km per hour speed limit on Norths Lane.

“Norths Lane does not have a sidewalk (footpath), but many residents use the road for their morning and dog walks,” Mr Marat wrote.

“More than 50 children have potential access to Norths Lane.

“I kindly urge Council to reduce the speed limit to a maximum of 50km per hour or less.”

YOUR THOUGHTS: Have you had a near miss on Norths Lane? Do you believe Norths Lane should reduce from 60km per hour to 50km? Please send your thoughts and letters via email to editor@theweekly.net.au

Mariah Jones, centre, with last years touring team

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Beverley Dawn Everson

29th Jan 1945 – 26th Apr 2022

It is 2 years since you left us, Although it only seems like yesterday, We miss your happy face and cheerful smile, Our love for you will never die, We know that God is looking after you, We love you clearly Bev.

All our love, Bert & Families xxxx

MICHAEL FRANCIS McCARTHY

18/06/1952 - 19/04/24

Goodbye is not forever. Goodbye is not the end. It simply means I’ll miss you until we meet again.

It’s hard to believe one year has passed since you left us. We miss you and your funny sense of humour everyday.

In memory of Gottfried Richard Klaus

09.02.1937 - 11.04.2024

A loving person

Dear relative Good friend & Farmer of the Mid Arm Farm

May his soul �ind eternal rest

Under the trees he loved

For details of his memorial, contact Carmen - 0438 140 589

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By Jo Kennett

With Round 1 postponed until the Splendour in the Grass weekend in July, Round 2 kicked off on April 14, with Bilambil going down to the Evans Heads Bombers 22-10. Cudgen, with Caleb Ziebell back, beat Lower Clarence 38-12, while Murwillumbah lost to Byron Bay 26-14. The Raiders had a bye.

In Round 3 on Saturday April 20, Murwillumbah had a big 22-8 victory over Evans Head.

Coach Brendon Hill said they had six or

“We just controlled the ball and got our online defence right, that was really good so they found it difficult to score tries,” Hill said.

“Their only two tries came off kicks.

“We were a bit clunky in the first half until the boys settled into the rhythm and we started completing our sets and showing more patience in our attack and that’s when we put a couple of quick tries

Gold Coast Pro is on An emotional day at Raiders

By Lucy Charchalis (WSL)

SURFING IS back at Snapper Rocks as the Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro Presented By GWM kicks off from April 27 to May 4.

It marks the first stop on the World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series, showcasing top surfers battling it out for a qualifying position on the 2025 Championship Tour.

You can expect to see both fresh and familiar faces as Challenger Series athletes take on the iconic waves at Snapper Rocks.

Not only does the event bring action-packed surfing, but it also fosters community and indigenous initiatives in the area.

On Friday, April 26, the Juraki Teams Challenge (which is featured on the front page this week) will see the crew from Juraki Surf Culture join the WSL Challenger Series athletes in the water.

Joel Slabb, director of Juraki Surf Culture,

said it’s been “awesome to work with the WSL since 2016”.

“And we’re excited for another year,” Joel said. “Juraki are grateful for the continued support that WSL shows to the Indigenous surfing community on the Tweed/Gold Coast and are stoked for the opportunity and platform to share surf and culture.”

The Teams Challenge is a great opportunity where everyone involved can surf, share the waves, and athletes can mentor young surfers. In addition, on April 26, the main event trials will also take place, where surfers will compete for a chance to earn a coveted spot at the Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro Presented By GWM.

On April 27, a traditional Welcome to Country will officially open the Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro Presented By GWM.

So come down to Snapper Rocks to catch all of the action or watch the event live on worldsurfleague.com

early in the second half.

“We had Kaleb Smith from Under 18s come off the bench and play hooker and got man of the match on debut. He played really well.

“Sam Saville played very well defensively and our captain Luke Campbell looked extremely good in attack. Kade Hill got us around the field playing the best game since he’s been back from West Tigers.

“It was just a solid team performance and we shared the workload around evenly unlike the week before. We have Bilambil this weekend and we get about five players back so it should be a good game. It’s Bilambil’s Old Boys Day as well so it should be fun.”

The Cudgen Northern United clash at Lismore was postponed due to rain and Bilambil had a bye.

The Tweed Coast clash against Casino started with a minute’s silence in memory of former coach and trainer Jamie Steen and Les Polglase, both of whom loved and were great supporters of the Raiders and sadly passed away recently.

“It was a special day honouring Jamie Steen who has been a hillbilly since we kicked back off,” Daniel ‘Rocket’ Ross said.

“He’s been an avid supporter and a big part

of the club so it was very emotional.

“We also lost Les Polglase who is the pop up Ethan Brouer and Zak Lloyd who both played here.

“He was also an avid supporter and sponsor of the club so it was a big one.

“Both families are long-time family friends of the club so it was a pretty emotional start to the day but it was good to honour them.

“Unfortunately we didn’t get the win for them but I guess that’s footy.”

The Raiders were up at the end of the first half, but missed a try in the dying minutes to go down 20-14 to Casino.

“We got a good start against Casino but we were still a bit scrappy and we weren’t happy with our completion rates,” Ross said.

“We let them off the hook a little bit with a few penalties down their end and we dropped the ball at critical times when we were attacking their line.

“We were happy with our defence and we didn’t feel too under the pump so we probably let it slip away a bit.”

Next week Tweed Coast play Marist Brothers in Lismore, while Cudgen have a big clash against Ballina at Kingy.

Caba kids big splash

By Jo Kennett

A GROUP of Bogangar Public School students have made a real splash in the pool at the North Coast Regional Swimming Carnival in Casino on Wednesday, March 20, with some of them off to the state titles.

Assistant Principal Alyson McIntyre said it was an amazing day.

“A huge congratulations to all who participated on the day and thank you to the parents and supporters who travelled down to cheer on our team,” Ms McIntrye said.

“Aside from watching nine of our girls progress to the state championships, our swimmers’ efforts placed our school in second at the carnival of the sixty eight schools in our region. “Topping the day off, Piper M (11 years girls) and Krista W (Senior girls) were runners up in the challenge for age champion. Awesome effort girls.”

The junior girls relay team of Lamani W, Olive R, Isla M & Bonnie S and the senior girls relay team of Piper M, Aurora A-M, Bonnie L and Krista W all won their races.

Krista came a close second in the open girls 100m freestyle race.

Pearl S placed in the 8 years girls 50m free -

style, Olive R and Isla M claimed positions in the 9 years 50m freestyle. Bonnie S took a place in the 10 years girls 50m freestyle. Piper M claimed a podium finish in the 11 years girls 50m freestyle and Krista took one in the 12 years girls 50m freestyle.

A number of the students will now travel to Sydney in April to represent the school and the North Coast at NSW State Championships.

Pearl S will contest the 8 years girls 50m freestyle, Olive R the 9 years girls 50m freestyle and Junior girls 4 x 50m freestyle relay and Isla M will race in the 9 years girls 50m freestyle and the Junior girls 4 x 50m freestyle relay.

Bonnie S has qualified for the 10 years girls 50m freestyle, Junior Girls 50m breaststroke and the 4 x 50m freestyle relay, Lamani W will race in the Junior girls 200m individual medley and Junior girls 4 x 50m freestyle relay and Piper M will compete in the 11 years girls 50 freestyle, breastroke and backstroke and the Senior girls 4 x 50m freestyle relay.

Bonnie L will race in Senior girls 4 x 50m freestyle relay while Krista W has qualified for the Open girls 100m freestyle, 12 years girls 50m freestyle and the Senior girls 50m breastroke and 4 x 50m freestyle relay.

IT WAS Round 3 of the NRRRL with two much-loved Tweed Coast Raiders members honoured with a minute’s silence, while the Mustangs got a big win over the Bombers with a debutant named man of the match.

These little legends are off to the state swimming titles

A minute's silence for Jamie Steen and Les Polglase at the Tweed Coast Raiders game player

Tree-changers flocking to scenic Terranora

By Jo Kennett

TERRANORA SPRAWLS over a hill with views over the Tweed River, Terranora Broadwater and the ocean, so it’s no wonder it has become a highly-sought after locale for tree-changers.

The original inhabitants were the Tulgigin people, the Tweed Heads clan of the northern Tweed Valley. ‘Tulgigin’ means ‘dry forest people’, referring to the hardy sclerophyll forest that grew in the area before European settlers arrived and knocked most of it down.

Cedar cutters arrived in the 1840s and built the first permanent settlement in Terranora, originally ‘Taranora’, meaning ‘little river.’ Tess Easton runs the local Facebook page and moved to the area in 2009.

“My partner and I grew up in the Northern Rivers and wanted a new space to start a family,” she said.

“Terranora felt like the best of both worlds; with the ocean, the bush and amenities.

“The elevation provides amazing views in all directions, especially in the morning when the clouds roll through, and I love the community here.”

There used to be a community hall on Terranora Road on land donated by Bert and Ethel

Johnson. Sadly, that centre of village life, of dances, school plays, first loves and everything that brought the community together, was demolished and never rebuilt.

Now The Pavilions Marketplace is the centre of village life.

“I’m an event organiser so I use The Pavilions Marketplace to run events,” Tess said.

“I do a free annual Halloween event and all the kids from the neighbourhood walk up.

“It’s the biggest event in Terranora with about 500 people attending over the night.

“The Pavilions has an IGA, a good coffee shop, a fantastic bakery and a hotel, and it’s the informal gathering spot.

“We do classic cars in the car park once a month, markets, concerts, movie nights, all sorts of stuff.”

Terranora Public School and Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School are also centres of community life.

“They are both really active in the community,” Tess said.

“Lindisfarne has an amazing theatre and they do annual productions there as well.”

There are some upmarket areas with multi-million dollar mansions scattered around the place, according to Tess.

“I’ve been here for nearly 15

Open Homes

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years and I still find the most amazing houses hidden away,” she said.

“There are four houses in my street that have sold for over a million dollars in the last two years, which was unthinkable when my house was bought ten years ago. “

Residential blocks at Terranora are already up around the $600,000 mark. Last month Terranora had four properties for rent and 18 properties for sale.

The median price over the last year is $1,226,000 for houses, with the median rental price $890 per week and an annual rental yield of 4.1 per cent.

Tess said there were three new estates with a lot of tree-changers moving in.

“People see it as a desirable location because it’s easy access to everything, it’s 15 minutes to Coolangatta and 19 minutes to Murwillumbah,” Tess said. “We are up high with beautiful views and flood free.”

During the 2022 floods, Tess put out a call for food box donations with a huge response.

“We put out 240 food boxes which residents drove down to where the flood reached at the end of Terranora Road, where locals boated them down to Tumbulgum, Condong, Burringbar and Uki,” she said.

“After Covid that really formed a strong sense of community and that was pretty exceptional.”

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Our

WELCOME HOME TO TERRANORA: 81B Henry Lawson Drive, Terranora, is for sale with Schmith Estate Agents

TWEED COOLANGATTA REAL ESTATE

Current owners have loved this home for 36 years. Now is your chance to secure this prime waterfront home, posi�oned on huge 1,294m2 level block (one of the largest in Endless Summer Estate)

Features

• Three bedrooms all with built-ins and fans, The main bedroom offers generous sized ensuite, good built-ins throughout

26 The Quarterdeck, Tweed Heads

• Entry leads to formal lounge & dining room through to family living area, all offering views to the water, sliding glass door access the pool & entertaining area

• The salt pool is solar heated with easy care paved surrounds

• The views up the canal – provide the perfect spot to relax & enjoy

• Generous 2 car garage, large front yard

with established gardens & room to extend

• 32 solar panels

Price: $1,950,000

Saturday27thApril11:00-11:30am

Michael Smith 0413 454 350 michael.smith@tcre.net.au OPENHOME

Three bedroom single level north facing duplex located in a pet friendly gated community of only eight.Centrally located close to Banora shops and clubs. Beau�ful presented throughout with living, dining and kitchen fully �led plus covered outdoor area.

Features:

* 3 bedrooms ensuite to main and walk-inrobe, with generous built-ins

*Fully �led living offering reverse cycle aircondi�oning

* Solar Panels

* Security gate complex close to Banora chops and clubs

* Fully fenced courtyard with low maintenance gardens

Inspec�on will impress!

Price: $850,000

6 Palm Road, North Tumbulgum

60 acres | 5 brm home | 3 levels with potential for dual living | spring-fed water supply | dam shedding with workshop | quality fencing & yards

Price - $2.6m - Ready to Sell

Situated within the magic drive zone of 25 mins to just about everything, this beautifully private 60 acres is an extremely rare opportunity to secure a parcel of this size in a great location.

Assured privacy, great elevation (flood-free), beautiful views, easterly breezes, abundant water and fantastic infrastructure is in place across approx. 35 acres of clear, all arable paddocks. The parcel is easily managed and currently runs 10 cows with calves easily, all year round and is ideal for horses or any livestock of choice.

Enjoy bushland at your back door with abundant wildlife and birds in this peaceful and quiet setting within easy reach of lifestyle amenities and schools. ‘Wyalusing’ could be just what you’ve been looking for.

Inspect by private appointment.

17a Prince Street, Murwillumbah

3 brms | 2 bathrooms | rumpus/living | fully fenced yard | walk to town & park | fully renovated

Price - $790,000 Vendors encourage offers.

Inspect by private appointment

The