Tweed Valley Weekly, April 11, 2024

World record mackerel

By Jo Kennett

A POTTSVILLE fisherman has caught what may go down in the record books as the world’s biggest Spanish mackerel.

The fish was caught off the Tweed Coast on Monday, April 1, and broke the scales before weighing in at 51.88kg.

The Australian record is 41.9kg and the world record is 43.7kg, although a 54kg mackerel was caught at Fraser Island but didn’t get the record because official weighing procedures weren’t followed.

“I went out at first light on Monday (April 1) and was fishing with tuna dead bait,” Nathan Warlosz said.

“I had a fair idea it was a good fish because it did take a fair bit of line and when I got it close I could see it was really big, at least six foot long.”

Nathan did consider letting the mackerel go.

“After a 40 minute fight the fish was fatigued and to get the hooks out would have been nearly impossible due its size,” he said.

“I did try to lift its tail but couldn’t get my hands around it so had to use a gaff and bring it in the boat and it would have been too hard to release on my own.

“I got some photos on my phone and a guy that saw me catch it came over and I held the fish up and he got some photos and a couple of other guys were cheering.”

The mackerel was too big to fit in Nathan’s 160 litre, 135cm Icey Tek esky.

“It went in but the tail and head were sticking out like a banana,” the Koala

Beach resident said.

“I weighed it on a friend’s 40kg scales and it broke the scales, it snapped the hook off.

“I went and weighed it at a pro fisherman’s house and it went to 52kg.

“I went to Addict Tackle but the head was on the ground so it didn’t weigh properly, then I weighed it on my scales and it maxed out at 50kg so we weighed it at 52kg on the bathroom scales.”

Nate weighed the mackerel the next day at Scales Seafood on their platform scales.

“It went to 51.88kg — it had dried out a bit by morning — and was witnessed and documented with a video,” Nathan told The Weekly.

“They are meant to be a certified scale but they said we can weigh it on a spring-balanced scale and send the scales in for testing. They take it pretty seriously.

“The closest certified scales are in Cairns

or Sydney so it would have been a big drive there.

“I’m in with a pretty good chance as they compare my photos to the current record holders.”

Nathan is lodging a claim for an all tackle or 15kg line class and wanted to thank his mates for helping weigh and document the catch.

“I’ve got to get a few things passed and paperwork filled out to send to Florida International Game Fish Association who do the world game tackle,” he said, adding he is donating the mackerel for scientific study.

“It will go to a lab in Queensland where the scientists can study the bone density to find out its exact age.

“They can work out how old they can be at that size and the life span of that species so it is of high scientific value.”

Hemp grower’s shed appeal lost

By Jonathon Howard

THE SUPREME Court of NSW has upheld a judgment declaring that Cannabis University owner Dolph Cooke were in breach of land use regulations following the unlawful construction without obtaining proper consent of several processing sheds for the use of low-THC infused hemp products.

The case was ruled upon on March 11 and involved detailed legal arguments around land use categorisation that put the spotlight on the complexities of regulatory compliance in the agricultural sector. Cooke was engaged in the cultivation, processing, and packaging of low-THC hemp-infused products such as olive oil and beeswax on two parcels of land at Kielvale, for which they were permitted.

Tweed Shire Council brought civil enforcement proceedings against the business after two sheds were constructed

on the site, arguing that their activities constituted unlawful development under the Tweed Local Environment Plan (LEP) as they had not obtained the necessary development consent.

The primary judge upheld council’s claim, ruling that the activities constituted “rural industry” which required development consent.

Cooke sought leave to appeal the decision, raising several key issues for determination.

The court, comprising Acting Justice John Basten, Justice Julie Ward and Justice Fabian Gleeson, granted leave to appeal but ultimately dismissed the appeal.

The court upheld the primary judge’s decision, emphasising the need for compliance with land use regulations, particularly in the context of agricultural activities.

The court made several orders, including granting leave to appeal, dismissing

the appeal, and directing Cooke to pay council’s costs of the proceedings which could reach a staggering $500,000.

This decision marks a significant milestone in the ongoing debate surrounding the regulation of rural industry and underscores the importance of clarity in land use regulations.

Mr Cooke was approached by The Weekly for comment but did not respond prior to the print deadline. Mr Cooke is believed to be appealing the decision.

Mayor Chris Cherry said it is “really important” that residents talk to council before building.

“To make sure that they are getting all of the approvals that they need before they invest money in a structure,” she said.

“The system is there to ensure that we do not have buildings creating public health issues or amenity impacts on neighbours. We need to work with it.”

RECORD: Local legend Nathan Warlosz snagged a monster mackerel of Tweed!

Respect for First Nations people

I remember as a child climbing all over Stonehenge. It is a very ancient cultural site and of great religious significance in ancient times (and to the Druids still). Today it is recognised that people climbing on it will have, and has had, a detrimental effect.

Today people can view the stones but from outside a fence and not walk anywhere near them.

Having learnt of the cultural significance of Wollumbin to the First Nations people of this country, I think we should respect that and keep the track closed unless they give permission otherwise.

Why should it be that we respect the significance of Stonehenge to our ancient ancestors but don’t to those of another very ancient culture.

Di Son, Kingscliff

Reopen the mountain

As per your article (TVW, March 28), the summit needs to be reopened as it has been a dog’s breakfast of consultation between the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Wollumbin Consultative Group.

History shows both of these groups are wrong and are very close to breaking a plethora of laws.

Please continue to report factually as you have already done.

John Rose, Tweed Heads

What’s the plan with flood houses?

Seeing the amount of flood-affected homes around the Tweed, barricaded with fencing prior to removal or demolition, I would like to know if those of the timber high-set Queenslanderstyle homes are to be removed rather than demolished.

It would be an awful shame to see that sort of dwelling go to waste in these times of housing shortages, as these buildings have proven to be transportable throughout local history.

Serena V Dolinska, Upper Burringbar Place names changing

Since the government is determined to change place names that have been in effect for over 100 years such as Fraser Island and Cape Byron, perhaps they should change the name of the new suburb of Kings Forest to Cudgen Forest or Goodjing Forest (meaning red ochre).

This would make more sense than waiting till thousands of new residents move in and have to change their address.

Christine Samuels, Casuarina Councillor shenanigans

Just a note in reference to the numerous and rather ‘ho hum’ bleatings of councillor James Owen in The Weekly recently.

Have to wonder why the paper is giving him so much coverage in preparation for elections coming up.

Instead of his bleatings about inhouse sagas, his time would be much better spent on influencing decisions on such things as dredging the river and estuary at Kingscliff to help prevent flooding, roadworks and protecting farmland at Cudgen. Just saying.

Joan Doris, Murwillumbah Work is hard for a reason

In response to the story of staff at breaking point featured in The Weekly recently (TVW March 28).

What employment does not have stress involved? Whether it is the people on checkouts, the police, doctors, the lollipop lady watching over children at school crossings et cetera.

You are being paid to supply a service to the community for which we ratepayers pay good money each year for less and less services, hence the extra requests for work to be completed. It is not too hard to see the outside staff looking at their phones, leaning on a fence or their shovels.

Look at how many complaints have been made about the unkept look of our shire.

I suggest those that are complaining go and find a job collecting butterflies. I had an extremely stressful job where at one stage I got stabbed walking out to my car after work. I was back at work the next day. I suggest if you can’t handle the heat, get out.

Elaine Brown, Bilambil Heights

Great local school coverage

It is with great interest I read the articles placed in Tweed Valley Weekly by the two public primary schools in Murwillumbah each week.

These articles bring to the community’s attention some of the great things Murwillumbah Public School and Murwillumbah East Public School are doing to enhance the lives of the young people attending these schools. The township of Murwillumbah is indeed fortunate in having two such outstanding public primary schools.

Because these two schools are public schools, they enrol children from diverse backgrounds and from all walks of life.

Children attending these schools have many opportunities to learn and participate in an inclusive environment.

The dedicated staff is mindful to ensure that each child has the opportunity to receive the best education possible.

For the past 150 years, public education has been available for the children of our town.

Our forebears knew the importance of providing free, secular and compulsory education for all children in our society.

Public education is now even more important in this modern age with its many challenges.

Governments, both state and federal, must ensure that our public education institutions, early childhood, primary, secondary and tertiary, including TAFE are available and well resourced.

We underestimate the importance of public education at our community’s and nation’s peril.

Christiaan Goudkamp, Murwillumbah

Waiting for decision on road maintenance

Council has not yet given a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ decision on my request for a notice of motion sent to councillors to get the 90-plus council roads on to Tweed Shire Council maintenance register.

The Weekly, Nov 23, front page, stated council had just completed a comprehensive study of the footpath and cycleway network across the Tweed.

The Weekly, Dec 14 and 21, multi-storey car park closed until structural engineer assessment is completed of damage.

I expect residents using the 90-plus council roads not maintained by council be given the same respect, equality and social justices that council has given to walkers, bike rides and motor vehicles.

Council needs to focus on rates, roads and rubbish.

Ray Nardi, Kielvale

Daylight savings has got to go

Why loss of productivity?

Early autumn but dark mornings — hard to get going — still sleeping. Enough of that in winter.

Sunday, March 24, 2024: 7.30am — lights still on but only early autumn! It has to go. It? Daylight savings of course.

Extended two months. Total lack of commonsense and practicality — gone!

This is massively against our circadian rhythm — our body clock — controlled by the hormone melatonin in our brain. Tablets are not the same.

It’s time for daylight savings to go.

With normal Eastern Standard Time, note the difference with body

clock time thus productivity increase.

Jillian Spring, Billinudgel Solution to conflict

Frank Ball sees the only solution to the longstanding Palestinian-Israeli conflict is “one land for both people with equal rights” (TVW, March 28), but how could that ideal be achieved while both Shiites (Hamas) and Zionists claim ancestral God-given and exclusive rights to the land?

The root cause of conflict and inhumanity to man is often religion “With or without [which], good people can behave well and bad people can do evil; but for good people to do evil — that takes religion.” (Steven Weinberg)

Monotheistic faiths have jealous and intolerant gods with divisive decrees relating to acceptable food, drink, clothing, practices, and (sacred) times, places, and objects. Coping with the consequent cultural clashes is often difficult in a multicultural society.

It is easy to see the foolishness of another’s religious beliefs and myths but not one’s own.

Mount Zion is sacred to Zionist Jews, as Mount Warning is to some Aboriginal people, but does that mean excluding others from them?

An iconoclast who taught that nothing and nowhere was especially sacred, and that all men and women were equal, was crucified for his trouble.

D Weston Allen, Cudgen

Mayor stresses staff pressure

By Jonathon Howard

MAYOR CHRIS Cherry has sought to reassure residents that their needs are being heard and that Tweed Shire Council staff are working hard to recover the shire from major environmental impacts.

Her comments follow the recent council motion to limit councillor complaints to staff, which was creating a major backlog of work and leading to some serious workplace health issues.

“I think it is really important to clarify the council report from two weeks ago on the pressure council staff are under,” Mayor Cherry said.

“People need to understand that we welcome their emails, problem reports and submissions, and they should definitely keep sending them in. That is not the issue.

“We are set up for that and last year the contact centre dealt effectively with more than 35,000 enquiries, complaints or submissions.

“What we are not set up for is the barrage of internal emails that some councillors are generating when they attempt to circumvent the system and set themselves up as a quasi-contact centre or go-to person.

“That is what is putting the staff under extreme pressure as it creates double handling and confusion in the system.”

Mayor Cherry said double handling does not help anyone get results faster and actually slows the system down.

“We need to be careful that we are not misusing council staff and resources to serve our own need for popularity,” she said.

“As councillors we all want to help our community and we work hard to do that,

but sometimes the best help you can give is helping people to learn how to help themselves.

“So when you get an email from any of us making sure that you have first reported an issue to tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au and given at least two weeks for a resolution to the issue, please understand we as councillors are just trying to help you get the job actioned fastest by going through the right channels.

“We are a team and we work best when we play as one.”

Cr Reece Byrnes said he’s eager to improve communication between councillors and council staff in a “measured and thoughtful process”.

“What we are currently experiencing within council is a backlog of emails and phone enquiries from several fellow councillors, which is creating a large amount of operational matters.

“This is hampering staff’s ability to coordinate at a strategic level.

“For example, council is still in the works with hundreds-of-millions worth of flood recovery projects which are constantly being interrupted.”

Cr Byrnes stressed that councillors should be given the right to express the needs of community members every day, but also balancing the need to look after council staff “who do a great job”.

“Councillors are elected to represent community members,” he said.

“But when staff are getting smashed with weekend emails and the demands and expectations are 24/7, this is too much.

“We need to find a balance and I feel the latest motion to limit councillors to 30 formal complaints is adequate for the time being.”

Cr Warren Polglase said he’s been watch-

ing councillor communication with staff with great interest and he’s observed some councillors have been “abusing the system”.

“When you receive around 150 emails from one councillor requesting information or action, that’s simply too much,” he said.

“In some ways council has been put in a difficult position.

“When you’re involved in the issues such as climate change, council has limited resources to deliver everything at once.

“We need to understand as an elected body our council cannot deliver the community expectations all the time.

“Because we’re a growth council with limited resources, and as a responsible body, the council is placing the resources where they are most needed.”

Cr Polglase said his fellow councillors need to take a “time out” and take a more “balanced approach” with those issues raised by the public.

“It’s about time we reconsider a wardbased system,” he said.

“This would then redirect responsibilities to each councillor ward.”

Cr Polglase said the ward system has faced criticism due to the nature of political party interest.

“Wards are the answer to address the workload and delegate councillor areas in the form of wards,” he said.

“In all my years of governing the Tweed Shire, I have never seen anything like the intensity of councillors making requests.”

Read more councillors’ views next week.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Do you believe Tweed Shire Council should change to become a ward-based system? Please send your thoughts and letters to editor@theweekly.net.au

I’ve had my COVID-19 vaccination

COVID-19 vaccination is your best protection against serious illness

If you are an adult at higher risk of severe illness or are 65 years and over, a free COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for you every 6 to 12 months.

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about what is best for you.

South Korea trip for veteran

By Jo Kennett

MURWILLUMBAH RESIDENT Vikki

Armour is set to embark on a journey to South Korea for this year’s Anzac Day as a special guest of the South Korean Government.

The trip is a gesture of appreciation and goodwill for the sacrifices made by Australian forces, particularly during the Korean War (1950-1953).

Vikki’s connection to the war runs deep as she is the daughter of Sergeant Eric Campbell (Butch) Lawther — born 1925 and passed away in 2011 — a distinguished veteran who served in the Australian Army for 36 years.

Butch had a remarkable military career, seeing active service not only in World War II, specifically the Pacific campaign, but also in the Korean War.

He participated in two significant battles in South Korea including the Battle of Marangsan and the Battle of the Kapyong, both of which are etched in Australian military history as some of the most intense hand-to-hand combat engagements experienced by Australian soldiers.

Reflecting on her father’s legacy, Vikki described him as a quintessential Australian, a loyal companion, and a true “digger”.

She reminisced about his dedication to the military and his subsequent involvement in training future generations through his service with the local cadets and the Citizens Military Forces, what’s now known as the Army Reserve.

Despite the horrors he witnessed during the wars, Butch also pursued further education, mastering the Japanese language at university, a testament to his enduring spirit and thirst for knowledge.

Vikki described her father as a “real

Australian mate’s mate and a digger.

“If you’d asked him what his profession was he’d said digger,” she said.

“He lived a happy and fulfilling life in the Army, he was the regular Army Officer for the local cadets and Citizens Military Forces or Reserves in Murwillumbah.

“Butch also after coming home from all the terrors of the wars, he studied Japanese language at university and became highly proficient in Japanese.”

For Vikki, the upcoming trip holds profound significance.

She expressed her eagerness to witness firsthand the development of South Korea as a democratic society and to immerse herself in its rich culture. However, her primary objective remains paying homage to her father’s fallen comrades, particularly those lost in the Battle of Kapyong, where 32 of Butch’s mates made the ultimate sacrifice in extreme circumstances.

“It’s paramount that I get the opportunity to pay my respects on behalf of my father to the 32 mates that he lost in the Battle of Kapyong,” she said.

“My father’s service in Korea defined

him as a soldier, defined him as a man and defined our family life, as my father spent the rest of his life in service to others as he saw what an enormous difference his and the United Nation’s service made to the gentle people of South Korea.”

The Battle of Kapyong holds a special place in Australian military history. Renowned historian Robert O’Neill described it as one of the most impressive victories achieved by any Australian battalion during the conflict.

Despite facing a numerically superior enemy and challenging conditions, including heavy fighting and isolation, the Australian forces, notably the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR), displayed remarkable courage, skill, and resilience, securing a significant triumph at Maryang San.

As Vikki prepares to attend the UN Service of Remembrance for the Battle of Kapyong, followed by Anzac Day commemorations in Seoul and concluding in Busan, where another pivotal battle unfolded, she carries with her a profound sense of duty and honour.

Kingscliff death sparks investigation

TWEED POLICE are investigating a suspected home invasion at Kingscliff on Tuesday, April 9, that resulted in the death of one man and injuries to a second man.

Police addressed the media on Wednesday, April 10, following the death of a 29-year-old man at an Oxford Street home just after 8pm.

Emergency services responded to the call and discovered two men seriously injured.

The 29-year-old is believed to have suffered a wound from a bladed weapon.

Despite treatment by Ambulance paramedics, the 29-year-old died at the scene.

Police told The Weekly they are investigating the matter as a “home invasion” and have a “bladed weapon” retrieved from the scene which is part of the investigation.

The second man, aged 66, sustained significant injuries and was airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital for treatment. A crime scene was established at the residence, and detectives have initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Further details may emerge as the investigation unfolds, and the police will provide updates to the media in due course.

Disco Lights at Murwillumbah Public School

It was an evening of great moves, great costumes and great beats at the Murwillumbah Public School Disco last Wednesday. The whole evening was planned and organised by the school SRC who are raising funds to purchase some mobile soccer posts for the school grounds. A theme of “Fairy Tales” was chosen and saw some creative costume ideas. Lots of princesses certainly added colour and are on the dance oor.

Chris Chrisostomos donated his services as DJ for the occasion and kept the students very active on the night.

Classics such as Nutbush, the Hokey Pokey and the Macarena

were mixed with lots of Taylor Swift and song list requests from each class. The limbo was a feature of the K-2 event as the children showed how low they could go. Staff were also impressive in their dress ups and showed lots of style and rhythm during the evening.

Well done to the SRC on their organisation and participation. The next SRC event coincides with National Pet Day this Thursday. Students can come out of uniform and a gold coin donation will go towards the local animal shelter. In Term 2 the SRC will focus on the Murwillumbah Public School Portrait Prize and preparation for an event in connection with the opening of the 2024 Olympics.

Vikki Armour is travelling to South Korea as a special guest to honour her father

Last week we each used 164 L a day

The Tweed celebrates NSW Youth Week

NSW Youth Week will run from Thursday 11 April to Sunday 21 April, promising a range of fun events for young people across the Tweed.

On Saturday 13 April Council will be supporting MURBAH Youth Fest 2024, a free community event which will kick off at 10 am in Knox Park. The festival includes a youth creative market, local bands and performers, workshops games and other activities for young people to get involved in.

Behind the scenes helping to design and deliver the festival are young people from the Murwillumbah Youth Action Group and other local services supporting youth.

On Saturday 13 April there will be a free movie afternoon at Kunghur Hall, which will feature a screening of the popular film, Hunt for the Wilderpeople. The event, hosted by Council, will offer attendees free popcorn and complimentary beanbags to chill on while they watch the film.

To celebrate the artistic talent and creativity of young people living in the region, Tweed Regional Gallery’s Wollumbin Youth Art Award (WYAA) will be open for entries for people aged 5 to 18 years. The Gallery will also be calling for new members to its Youth Collective.

Richmond Tweed Regional Libraries will be joining in on the Youth Week festivities with 2 exciting events:

• Monday 15 April, Tweed Heads Library will be calling all Mario Kart lovers for a fun afternoon of Nintendo mania from 10 am to 12 noon.

• Friday 19 April, Murwillumbah Library will host an afternoon of Nintendo Switch and Wii games from 2 to 3:30 pm.

National Youth Week is jointly supported by the Australian Government, state and territory governments and local governments.

Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/latest-news for more information.

Banora Point intersection Stage 1 upgrade completed

Stage 1 upgrade works on the roundabout at the intersection of Leisure Drive, Greenway Drive and Darlington Drive at Banora Point have recently been completed to assist reduce peak hour congestion.

This significant project widened turning lanes, requiring the relocation of a host of underground services, made changes to the verge including kerb and gutter, footpath and turf and included new road surfacing and linemarking.

Acting Director Engineering Danny Rose thanked the community for their patience and collaboration as that significant project milestone was reached.

“Community support and understanding have been vital in navigating through the challenges of Stage 1. Thank you for your understanding,” Mr Rose said.

Stage 2 of the project will include the installation of signalised pedestrian crossing, road widening and service relocations.

“We also thank those who shared feedback regarding the timing of Stage 2.

“Based on that feedback, we can confirm that Stage 2 will be undertaken during the summer school holidays in December 2024/January 2025. This timing aims to minimise disruptions to school peak traffic while completing the project as efficiently as possible.”

You can find out more about the project at yoursaytweed.com.au/banora-point-intersection

Information on road impacts will be provided at tweed.nsw.gov.au/roadworks-closures before construction for Stage 2 begins.

Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient community for generations to come.

How common is energy poverty in the Tweed?

Council is seeking views from residents and community, health and housing service providers about energy poverty in our Shire at an upcoming workshop to be held on Wednesday 17 April from 9:30 am to 1 pm at Tweed Heads.

Energy poverty means spending more than 10% of household income on electricity costs.

Energy poverty is also about avoiding heating, cooling or hot water use because of concerns about electricity costs, at the expense of health or wellbeing.

The interactive workshop will help Council understand challenges, opportunities and potential solutions, including:

• how common is energy poverty in the Tweed?

• how might energy poverty be identified?

• what support or resources could be provided to support those experiencing energy poverty?

The workshop will be held in the South Sea Islander Room at the Tweed Heads Civic and Cultural Centre, corner of Brett and Wharf streets, Tweed Heads and includes morning tea and light lunch. Please advise any accessibility needs for your participation in this event.

Registration is essential. All are welcome. Please RSVP via email to jmoad@tweed.nsw.gov.au or phone 02 6670 2400 by Monday 15 April 2024.

This event is part of Council’s commitment to create stronger community bonds and support for those in need.

Repairs to multi-level carpark one step closer

The multi-level carpark adjacent to the Council offices at Murwillumbah has been closed since December 2023 following a vehicle fire which caused extensive damage to the structure.

While the bottom level of the carpark reopened in February, providing some relief to businesses and the community, the rest of the structure remains closed while cleaning, interim repairs and assessments have been ongoing.

Council recently received a report from structural consultants on the extent of the damage, however, input from the original builders of the carpark and additional testing by materials engineering specialists about the extent of the works is also required before progressing to the next stage.

Council’s insurance provider also needs to give approval before any work can start. Additional testing and approvals are expected to take 2 to 3 months with repairs expected to start soon after.

Cost estimates are expected to be significant.

The bottom level of the carpark will remain open for the time being. Alternative public car parking is available at Knox Park and in the carpark outside Sunnyside Mall, as well as the two public car parks between Proudfoots Lane and Wollumbin Street.

Council understands the challenges and inconvenience limited access to the carpark has caused and appreciates the patience and understanding from the community while these investigations and repairs are completed.

To keep up to date on the latest announcements, follow Council at tweed.nsw.gov.au/social-media or, to get updates as soon as they are available subscribe to the Tweed Link at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe

In brief ...

Parking patrols in Murwillumbah

Following high volumes of parking complaints in Murwillumbah this year, parking compliance patrols will continue, with a focus by Council Rangers on high-risk offences such as stopping in school zones and on roads with a continuous yellow line.

Parking notices will also be issued for stopping within bus or no stopping zones and for overstaying the parking time limit.

Council understands the current parking challenges in Murwillumbah due to the multi-level carpark being partially closed however, it is critical that safe and legal parking is still adhered to.

Allow extra time to find an appropriate car park. Council urges the community to always park safely, park responsibly and avoid a parking notice.

Find out about parking rules, fine and permits at tweed.nsw.gov.au/parking-in-the-tweed

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.

Jess Porter from Murwillumbah Community Centre with members of the Youth Action Group – youth mentor Kalindi, Arjan, Dylan and Kody.

The multi-level carpark adjacent to the Council offices at Murwillumbah has been closed since December 2023 following a vehicle fire.

No. 8336 Tweed Valley Way, Condong DA24/0048 – Pool and deck Lot 277 DP 1120559, No. 3 Woodfull Crescent, Pottsville DA22/0659 – Demolition of existing structures and construction of a residential flat building containing 3 units

20 DP 250391, No. 12 Hastings Road, Bogangar

DA22/0287 – Use of existing farm buildings including animal shelters and sheds

Lot 4 DP 565754, 396 Melaleuca Road, Duranbah

DA23/0180 – Extension of existing men’s shed

Lot 301 DP 1125090,

In brief ...

Youth Collective members wanted Tweed Regional Gallery & Maragret Olley Art Centre is calling for new members to join its exciting Youth Collective.

Open to young creatives aged 13–19, the Youth Collective connects creative young people, giving them the opportunity to develop their own events and learn from artists about what it’s like working in arts.

Youth Collective members meet fortnightly for engaging sessions filled with artmaking, event planning and community building.

The membership drive is part of NSW Youth Week which is on from 11 to 21 April.

To find out more and to register your interest, visit gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au/learning-programs

The Tweed Regional Gallery & Maragret Olley Art Centre Youth Collective is proudly supported by the Tweed Regional Gallery Foundation Ltd.

More equitable water access charges

Non-residential properties use 27 to 29% of tap water in the Tweed, but they have been paying just 11% of all Water Access Charges.

To make it fairer for all water customers, Council is changing the way the charge is calculated for non-residential properties

From 1 July, the Water Access Charge for nonresidential properties will be based on the amount of water used at those properties.

Historically, Water Access Charges have been based on the size of water meters.

If you own a residential property, any future increases in the amount of your Water Access Charge are likely to be minimised because of the way the charge is now calculated for nonresidential properties.

For details about water and wastewater billing, head to tweed.nsw.gov.au/water-use-and-billing

Blues drug bust

By Jo Kennett

TWO HUNDRED people were caught with drugs, mostly cannabis, at Byron Bay Bluesfest, but police say they were generally happy with the behaviour of music lovers at the festival as early tickets for 2025 went on sale.

Thirty-nine festival goers will front court and 161 were issued with cautions at the five-day event at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm.

Cannabis, methylamphetamine, MDMA, cocaine, and LSD were also seized during the annual festival, which ended on Monday April 1.

“Officers attached to Tweed-Byron Police District were assisted by specialist po lice — including from the Op erations Support Group and Dog Squad — from Thursday, March 28 to Monday, April 1 at Byron Events Farm, Tyaga rah,” a NSW Police statement said.

Police said the high-visibility op eration was conducted “to ensure the safety and security of crowds.”

Despite the number of drug offences, police said they were pleased with the behaviour of the 80,000-strong crowd.

“The fact we found so many festival goers in possession of drugs is disappointing, though overall we were pleased with the lack of anti-social behaviour,” Inspector Gary Cowan said.

Festival Director Peter Noble issued a statement saying he had full confidence that Bluesfest will return next year “in spite of the current wave of 2024 festival cancellations” such as Splendour In The Grass.

“Bluesfest will be 125 million per cent back in 2025,” Peter

“We’re still calculating the numbers, but we know the attendance for Bluesfest this year was at least the same as

“We have held our position, and as much as we would like to see more people come, it’s not going to happen until the interest rates drop.

“We do ask our government to support our industry until then.”

Jaws of life rescue

By Jo Kennett

RESCUE VOLUNTEERS had to use the jaws of life to free the driver of a vehicle after a collision on Tweed Coast Road at Cudgen on Friday, April 5.

Tweed District Rescue Squad was activated to a ‘persons trapped’ collision on Tweed Coast Road at Cudgen at 8.41pm.

The accident happened on the corner of Plantation and Tweed Coast roads.

“There was a four-wheel drive wagon involved and no one was trapped or transported to hospital from that,” Tweed District Rescue Squad captain Drew Carr said.

“The other vehicle was a Mazda sedan with two occupants and the impact was on the driver’s side.

“NSW Ambulance paramedics assessed and

treated two patients in the sedan.”

Rescue squad volunteers used the hydraulic ‘jaws of life’ to remove the side of the vehicle and used a rescue board as a spinal precaution to transfer the patient onto the awaiting ambulance stretcher.

The driver was said to be conscious and talking before being transported to Gold Coast University Hospital for further medical treatment.

“We would like to thank Kingscliff Fire and Rescue and Cudgen Rural Fire Brigade volunteers for fire protection and assistance,” Drew said.

The next day, Tweed District Rescue Squad were on scene after an accident at Murwillumbah that involved an allegedly stolen vehicle which hit two other vehicles.

Squad members had to once again use the jaws of life to cut one of the victims out and also deployed their powered watercraft to help in the search for the driver of the vehicle who had fled into the river.

As the boat was put into the river, just before 11pm, they received word that a police officer had apprehended the woman after commandeering a surfboard.

“We were versatile in our response to multiple incidents, using various resources to support our rescue efforts and the NSW Police,” Drew said.

“We were there providing lighting for the police at the Murwillumbah crime scene until about 1pm.”

Tweed District Rescue Squad volunteers had to cut the driver out of the car

Woman nabbed in river

By Jo Kennett

A WOMAN has been arrested after a police chase ended in a collision with two other vehicles and the woman escaping into the Tweed River before being captured by a police officer who chased her down on a surfboard.

The three occupants of the two vehicles that were written off in the collision at Murwillumbah on Saturday, April 6, were lucky to escape serious injury, although one woman was hospitalised with a broken elbow.

The drama had begun three days earlier on Wednesday, April 3, with a break and enter at Chinderah, when a Volkswagen Amarok was allegedly stolen.

A short time later, police received a report that the same vehicle was used to allegedly steal fuel from a petrol station at Mullumbimby.

On Thursday, April 4, police attempted to stop the driver of the stolen Amarok at Brunswick Heads.

When the driver failed to stop, police initiated a pursuit, which was later terminated due to safety concerns.

On Saturday, April 6, two further police pursuits were initiated in the Tweed Heads area.

In the second pursuit, at around 10pm, police pursued the Amarok from Tweed Heads to Murwillumbah, where on Tumbulgum Road, the driver of the Amarok overtook an elderly couple in a sedan, hit them and pushed them off the road, then collided head on with a Hyundai Imax being driven in the opposite direction.

The accident happened on the small bridge over Mayal Creek on the west side of the river on the edge of Murwillumbah.

The driver of the Hyundai Imax, a

45-year-old woman, was trapped in the van and treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics, before being taken to Gold Coast University Hospital for treatment of a fractured elbow and abrasions.

The driver of the Amarok allegedly fled the scene, entering the Tweed River at Tygalgah.

Police searched the water for the woman, and also searched on the other side of the river beside Tweed Valley Way, near the Star Bird Cafe.

Police established a perimeter, and a sergeant commandeered a surfboard and paddled around 500 metres along the river and arrested the 24-year-old woman.

Janet Cruise lives nearby and said she heard a massive bang out the front of her house and went out to find the car “totally smashed in front with police everywhere on the bridge and police running on foot into the homes opposite.”

“There were heaps of police in cars and lights directed to the river on both sides,”

Janet said.

“It was so lucky no one was seriously injured or killed.

“Please thank the police and emergency services who were out in the pouring rain and those police officers running like madmen in the dark.

“It was like a Hollywood movie and I just hope justice is served.”

Another resident, who didn’t want to be named,, said the elderly couple were hit as the woman driving the stolen car “sideswiped them” when she went to overtake them on the bridge.

“The elderly couple were shaken but okay. It’s so lucky they were only going slow.

“We offered to give them a lift home but they got a lift with the tow truck driver.

“The police took details off them but they were definitely impacted as a result of the police chase and the crash.

“Everyone living nearby was just so glad the couple and the lady in the van were not more seriously injured.”

The woman was taken to Tweed Heads Police Station and charged with two outstanding warrants and seven offences including aggravated break and enter, committing a serious indictable offence and stealing a motor vehicle at Chinderah on April 3, dishonestly obtaining property by deception at Mullumbimby on April 4 (fuel), and not stopping and driving dangerously during a police pursuit at Brunswick Heads on April 4, and at Chinderah on April 6.

She was also charged with hindering/resisting a police officer in the execution of duty and driving with a cancelled licence. The woman was refused bail and appeared in Tweed Heads Local Court on Monday, April 8.

Car theft chaos

A FATHER wheeling his baby daughter in a pram had to run for safety when a stolen four-wheel drive mounted a footpath at Duranbah Beach as the driver made his getaway.

Tweed Police are still searching for the car thief who on Sunday, April 7, allegedly stole the Toyota Prado using keys taken from a surf lock box.

The theft was caught on camera, with surfers watching on in disbelief as the vehicle sped off down the busy footpath, just missing pedestrians, including a woman walking her dog and the father and daughter.

The Prado owner had just finished his surf and was metres away from his car talking to a mate when he heard his car start up.

As the car travelled down the footpath, phone footage showed it clip a parked car and the father carrying the pram in his arms as he ran down the embankment onto the beach to avoid being hit.

Roger Grassi told the Today Show his two-year-old daughter was asleep in the pram.

“I always go for a walk around Duranbah, but I saw that something was wrong — a few guys started screaming and I saw the car coming in my direction on the sidewalk,” he said.

“And I just said, ‘Oh my God’ and it was super quick and I just went into survival mode to try and save my little one’s life — it was super scary, I’m still shaking.”

“It was absolutely insane, I just hope this guy is already in jail and can never be allowed to drive again.”

He later went online to say it was “the most terrifying experience of my life.”

The car owner, Liam Geale, took to Instagram saying the thief had cut through his surf lock as he was talking to a mate after his surf and heard his car start up.

“I tried to pull him out of the car but he drove off too quickly,” Liam posted.

“A guy then parked his car across the road to stop him driving back, he took to the grass and luckily nobody was hurt.

“Thank you to the local surf community and Tweed Heads police. We found the car with iPhone tracking and it was undamaged and all okay.”

MURWILLUMBAH EAST PUBLIC SCHOOL

At MEPS we love to showcase the creativity of our students from kindergarten through to Year 6 and our Easter celebrations were just one of the ways children displayed their ideas and skills.

On Thursday 28th March, Kindergarten to Year 2 had the opportunity to parade their Easter Hat creations to an enthusiastic audience of students, teachers, parents, and carers. After parading, our K-2 children took to the stage and performed Easter songs with actions that even included some bucket drumming! These moments provide valuable experiences for our students to improve their confidence and work together to create exciting celebrations for our school community. In even more eggciting news, the Easter Bunny managed to find time to visit MEPS and deliver some delicious treats into eager hands and classroom baskets.

Our older students in years 3 – 6 showed their creative flair in the form of Easter themed dioramas. Plain old cardboard boxes were transformed into three dimensional scenes of egg-ceptional quality with children having the freedom to create dioramas from their own ideas. Our principal, Mrs Vanessa Chaffey, had the difficult task of choosing the “Principal’s Choice Top 10 Easter Diorama Winners” for 2024 to receive prizes and certificates.

Our MEPS P&C headed by incoming President, Mrs Vanessa Rose, organised an egg-streme Easter Raffle that saw the very happy winners taking chocolate filled bags, baskets, and bunnies’ home to be enjoyed for the weekend. What an asset we have in our P&C, and we are grateful to the volunteers who give up their time fundraising for our school community.

For more school highlights please visit our Facebook page.

The stolen Prado narrowly missed several people

The driver of the allegedly stolen Amarok ute escaped into the Tweed River

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Urliup Road plea

By Jonathon Howard

AFTER YEARS of what residents say is “neglect” of Urliup Road — a crucial artery for local commuters and a vital passage for school buses — residents are now demanding repairs be made with haste.

The road’s deteriorating condition, characterised by unrepaired potholes and encroaching grass and weeds, has sparked fears among residents regarding safety and accessibility.

Adding to the issue is the fact many residents are no longer receiving a garbage collection at their homes and are instead forced to transport their bins to a central site for collection.

Despite being designated as a school bus route, Urliup Road has suffered from chronic neglect, according to locals, with minimal to no maintenance efforts being undertaken.

Urliup resident Kiley Blissett described the situation as “dire” and reached out to The Weekly to highlight the issue.

roadside increases visibility issues for drivers, with vegetation reaching heights that obscure car windows.

Efforts to address the deteriorating state of Urliup Road have been minimal, leaving residents feeling neglected by local authorities.

“Despite repeated appeals, no significant action has been taken to rectify the situation,” Ms Blissett said.

Tweed Shire Council says it’s on the case and has earmaked a range of scheulded maintenance.

The Weekly took the concerns to council’s acting director of engineering Danny Rose for a response.

Mr Rose said council has engaged contractor Hazell Bros Group to restore six damaged

sites caused by landslips from the 2022 floods along Urliup Road.

The $5 million restoration project involves extensive ground restabilisation and road reconstruction works to restore the road to its pre-flood condition.

“The work will be undertaken in three stages over a works period of approximately 42 weeks, with works currently scheduled for completion by October 2024, weather permitting,” he said.

“The project is progressing well, with design work and environmental permits completed.”

Continued on page 45 including pictures of the bus routes and bin collection site.

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

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Dr Rick enjoys all aspects of general practice & prides himself in providing quality care to his patients.

Areas of interest:

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Dr Rick is now available 4 days a week! Book your appointment by calling Kingscliff Doctors on (02) 6674 1304 or by visiting the Kingscliff Doctors website.

“Driving down Urliup Road feels like navigating through a minefield of potholes and blind corners due to overgrown grasses,” she said.

“The potholes are terrible. It’s a constant battle to avoid damaging our vehicle.”

Moreover, the overgrowth of grass and weeds along the

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Book your appointments online at www.kingscliffdoctors.com.au or phone Kingscliff Doctors on (02) 6674 1304

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Inaki is a dedicated osteopath that understands the interaction between the different structures and systems of the human body and their relationship to health. He has a keen interest in musculoskeletal pain management as well as sporting injury prevention and rehabilitation.

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Urliup Road is overgrown with weeds and potholes galore

Fire ants affect us all

Eradicating fire ants is a fight we need to win, the consequences of failing are far too great.

They’re small, copper brown, feisty and sting, and if we don’t all work together they’ll be here to stay.

First found in Brisbane in 2001, fire ants are considered one of the world’s most invasive pests. And rightly so, they can have irreversible consequences on our environment, human health and outdoor way of life.

If we don’t stop them, fire ants could infest all of Australia, rendering our green spaces unusable, and surpassing the annual damage done by our country’s worst pests—feral cats, wild dogs, foxes, camels, rabbits and cane toads.

Do you love spending time outdoors without shoes on? This lifestyle is what we need to save.

Australia is the only country currently focused on eradicating this pest as it has spread too far in other countries, so they have given up trying.

For our rural and semi-rural farming communities such as South Murwillumbah, and all those who rely on these communities, fire ants pose a severe problem if left unchecked.

In the United States, fire ant nests are part of the everyday landscape. Texan farmers can only use a portion of their land, the rest has been taken over by fire ants to the point it’s beyond treatable and in many cases the

land is unusable. Residents are also unable to walk to their washing lines or spend time outside without being swarmed and repeatedly stung.

This is not a future we want for Australia.

Eradication will take a collective and whole-of-community approach. We need you to look for and report fire ants and give our officers access to your property if they need to conduct fire ant eradication activities.

To give our country the best chance of success, we must treat:

• 100% of all targeted properties

• all properties at least 6 times over 2 years

• whether fire ants are visible or not.

Just one missed nest could jeopardise eradication efforts.

Eradication treatment is delivered using aircraft, utility terrain vehicles and handheld spreaders in smaller, more easily accessible areas. The method we use varies depending on the size and accessibility of an area.

Large acreage properties are most commonly treated by air as this is the most time and cost-efficient method. Handheld spreaders are suited for residential blocks and utility terrain vehicles for larger parcels of land.

Fire ant treatment is safe for humans and animals and is approved by

the Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA).

The treatment is specifically designed to target fire ants using ingredients commonly found in a range of household and agricultural pest control products but at a much lower concentration. It prevents the queen from reproducing worker ants—if she cannot replenish her workforce the colony will starve and naturally die out.

Our field officers are authorised under the BiosecurityAct2015 (NSW) to conduct fire ant eradication activities. They drive a vehicle displaying the National Fire Ant Eradication Program logo, carry government identification, and will only ever need access to the outdoor areas of your property.

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

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

The target area covers a 5 km radius around the detection in South Murwillumbah.

Fire ants are highly destructive and can feed on insects, displace native species and destroy ecosystems.

Fire ant teams using hand spreaders to treat.

To achieve good physical balance, we rely on our brain, eyes, inner-ear, and musculoskeletal system to work in harmony. However, when the fragile vestibular organs of the inner ear and brain are damaged by illness or injury, anyone can lose their ability to balance.

Balance disorders are typically under diagnosed and undertreated. More than 1/3 of adults aged 40 years and older experience vestibular dysfunction at some point in their lives.

Common symptoms of vestibular disorders include vertigo and dizziness. Vertigo is a spinning or whirling sensation, or an illusion of the self or world moving. Dizziness is a lightheaded, floating or rocking sensation. Poor balance, nausea, visual disturbances, headache, hearing loss, tinnitus, and pain or fullness in the ears can accompany vestibular disorders.

There are many causes of dizziness or vertigo. But most types of vestibular disorders can be diagnosed by means of a thorough medical history and clinical examination.

The most common type of vertigo is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

(BPPV), and once diagnosed is easily treated with repositioning manoeuvres.

Amongst other types of vertigo are Meniere’s Disease, Vestibular Neuritis and Cervicogenic Vertigo Cervicogenic Vertigo is due to a dysfunction in the neck and can be easily treated with Osteopathic intervention.

Dr Rudi Gerhardt has had substantial education in the field of Vestibular Disorders, can diagnose most of the common types, and is able to either treat the condition or refer on for further diagnosis and treatment.

Dr Rudi Gerhardt B.Sc., D.O.

Your local Osteopath

Result on seawall

By Jo Kennett

RESIDENTS IN a Tweed Heads apartment building seem to have won their battle to get repairs approved for a collapsed seawall which they say is a serious safety risk to the public, after a licence was finally granted to build a new retaining wall.

The owners of Seascape Apartments that adjoins Jack Evans Boat Harbour (JEBH) have been seeking approval for the repair, at their own expense, for the last three years.

Wave action had removed sand and undermined the base of the rock wall causing the facing rocks to move and large sinkholes to form along the wall and the steps into the harbour.

Seascape Apartments Strata Committee chairman Bernie Sydenham said that in 2022 they had all the consent needed and submitted a development application (DA) to Tweed Shire Council which was approved in June 2023.

Since then, the approval had been held up with the Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) apparently due to the land being on a historic Indigenous pathway.

The committee had no response to their correspondence with Crown Lands and so enlisted the help of local Bundjalung community leader and NRL legend Larry Corowa “because it’s a community facility for everyone to use and it’s unsafe.”

Larry grew up and lives in the area and said

the community he represents “fully supports the wall being repaired.”

“My people have been deprived of this facility and this area that Seascape has always made available to the public as a pathway and to use for storytelling and recreational use,” Larry said when The Weekly visited the site to see how dangerous it was.

“We need the government to stop doing the bureaucratic thing and communicate with the committee to get it fixed as soon as possible.

“We need people with common sense that can sit down and discuss it and let everyone enjoy this beautiful area here.”

Fortunately the government listened and The Weekly received an email from the DPE with some welcome news.

“Crown Lands has finalised its assessment of Seascape Strata’s licence application, including compliance with the Native Title Act 1993, and is pleased to advise a licence has been granted to Seascape Strata to erect a new retaining wall,” a department spokesperson said.

Bernie said they were pleased that “with Larry Corowa’s engagement we have now received a licence permit from Crown Lands.”

“There is still a submission of additional documents to Tweed Shire Council before we can commence the repair of the wall, but we are hopeful that work can commence in the near future,” he said.

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In the Tweed Area, our three groups are BNI Aspire at Cabarita Beach on a Wednesday morning, BNI Eagle at Tweed Heads on a Thursday morning and BNI Pinnacle at Tweed Heads on a Friday morning. All and anyone are welcome to visit!

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Seascape owners and committee members with Larry Corowa

STATE MEMBER for Lismore Janelle Saffin says she welcomes the Australian Government’s recent release of the Draft National Autism Strategy.

The state and territory governments will be provided with the opportunity to engage with the Draft National Autism Strategy, according to Ms Saffin.

“We need a NSW Autism Strategy and I have had discussions with the relevant minister in the Minns Labor government, Kate Washington,” Ms Saffin said.

“I raised the importance of an autism strategy in the NSW Parliament last year. South Australia is way ahead of us. Now we have the Draft National Autism Strategy, we need to seize the momentum and get a New South Wales strategy to break down barriers for autistic children and adults and their families.”

President of the Northern Rivers Autism Association Micheal Lynch teamed up with Business NSW Northern Rivers Regional Director Jane Laverty to co-host an Autism@Work business luncheon at the Ballina RSL Auditorium on Tuesday, April 9.

The event, titled Embracing a Neurodiverse Workforce, celebrated Autism Awareness Month and the guest speaker was former dual-code international for rugby league and rugby

union player Mat Rogers.

Ms Saffin was unable to attend the event as she was recovering from Covid.

“A panel of speakers is sure to discuss the Draft National Autism Strategy,” Ms Saffin says.

“It is clear from the draft that the states and territories and federal government need to work together because the strategy covers polices across both levels of government.

“The states have primary responsibility for the key areas of education, health, justice and housing.

“It is the states that have responsibility for pre-schools, for example, where children are at a critical age for early intervention which can make a huge difference.

“This is an opportunity for National Cabinet to tackle the crossover of responsibilities and ensure that this is an effective, properly funded strategy without gaps for people to slip through.

“Being in a rural or regional area can add another layer of disadvantage, so it is important that people from this region give their feedback to the national strategy.”

For more information on the Draft National Autism Strategy and to give feedback go to: https://engage.dss.gov.au/developing-the-national-autism-strategy/

An adjustable bed could be your solution! *Terms

From left, Business NSW Northern Rivers Regional Director Jane Laverty, guest speaker Mat Rogers, and Northern Rivers Autism Association Chair Micheal Lynch

Tweed Coast Grom Tag

By Jo Kennett

KINGSCLIFF BOARDRIDERS Club are holding a junior tag team surf comp to help members Dane Henry and Lachlan Arghyros — who have been selected to go to the ISA World Junior Surfing Championships taking place in El Salvador in May — with travel expenses.

The Tweed Coast Grom Tag surf comp is on this Sunday, April 14, and will provide plenty of fun for competitors and entertainment for spectators.

Dane said he was going to be judging and will also join MC Tru Starling on commentary.

“It would be great to get a bunch of spectators down there as it’s going to be really entertaining and it should be really fun for the competitors,” Dane said.

“We’ve got Lachy surfing and Mitchell Peterson from the Sunny Coast who is really far up there in the 16s and we have Leihani Zoric from Byron and a lot of really good up and coming grommies so it should be a great day of surfing.

“We will check conditions on the day and we will post on the Kingscliff Boardriders Insta, my Insta and Tweed Coast Grom Tag Instagram.” The event kicks off about 7.30am and will run into the afternoon.

Dane, from Fingal Head, and Lachy, from Kingscliff, were selected for the Irukandjis based on their Australian Junior rankings. Lachy ended 2023 ranked number one on the Surfing Australia rankings for under 16 boys while Dane tied at number one in the under 18 junior rankings.

“I’ve been doing a lot of training and surfing and focusing on my nutrition and health,” Dane said.

“I’m doing a lot of training sessions at HPC (High Performance Centre) mainly with Pete Duncan.

“I focus a lot on my mental preparation with positive talk and a positive mindset. I write out

SATURDAY 13TH APRIL

my goals and get ready to try to exceed my goals. “It’s such a different place over there. It’s extremely hot and different so it should be really good.

“We want to say a huge thank you to The Board Lab; they are the naming rights sponsors of the comp and they will be set up for the day with some boards so people can take a look.

“Lachy and I are really grateful to The Board Lab for their help in getting us to the world stage and Kingscliff Boardriders as well.”

“I feel so honoured to have been given this incredible opportunity,” Lachy said on his Australian Sports Foundation fundraiser page. Come down and check out all the action this Sunday and help Lachy and Dane get to El Salvador.

Help fund their trips at www.gofundme.com/f/ help-dane-represent-australia-in-el-salvador and asf.org.au/projects/lachlan-arghyros/help-lachlan-get-to-el-salvador-for-the-world-junior-surfing-champs

Lachy Arghyros (right) will be surfing in the Tweed Coast Grom Tag

BE AT THE HEART OF SUSTAINABLE FASHION: VOLUNTEER AT OUR PRELOVED BOUTIQUE!

By Jonathon Howard

ITV crew boost Story Dogs

LATE LAST year, a local family reached out to ITV Studios and the crew of the popular television series ‘I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!’ with a heartfelt plea for support.

They sought a $500 sponsorship for Story Dogs, a cause close to their hearts. Despite missing the cut-off for ITV’s annual grants program, hope wasn’t lost as the crew was contacted to explore possibilities.

“We are honored that the ITV team, visitors to our area, heard that call and have raised $2,500 to support our program in the Tweed Valley.

“The generosity of the ITV team means we will be able to have more dog teams and resources in our schools and is a wonderful gift to the children of our community.”

Gold Coast Chamber Orchestra proudly prese nts

Pui-Man Li, the executive line producer of the popular television series, came up with a brilliant idea nominating Story Dogs as an on-site crew fundraiser.

Luminous Strings - Recital

The decision prompted a big response from the crew members with donations quickly reaching $2,500 — a big boost for Story Dogs.

This windfall will allow Story Dogs to sponsor new teams, recruit and train more dogs and their owners in the Tweed Shire.

Story Dogs coordinator Margaret Potter expressed the group’s gratitude for the generous donation, emphasising the perpetual need for volunteers to support their cause.

Story Dogs, introduced into Australia by local women Leah Sheldon and Janine Sigley, began 14 years ago at Murwillumbah East Primary School with one dog, Simba.

Today, it has expanded into a national program, partnering with 384 schools and assisting over 3,300 children weekly.

The essence of Story Dogs lies in one-on-one reading sessions between children needing extra literacy assistance and volunteers with their four-legged companions.

Thursday 28th March 7pm – 9pm

Reading to these non-judgmental dogs helps children relax, improve focus, enhance reading skills, and boost confidence.

Prince ton Room | Bond Univ ersity |

“When we put out a call for Story Dog sponsors a couple of months ago, we didn’t expect to be overwhelmed by such a positive response,”

Story Dogs Tweed is also seeking new volunteers and dog lovers to join the team and/or support the program.

For more information and to help please visit: storydogs.org.au or contact Ms Potter: 0420 464 524 or 0420 464 524.

Proudly pesents ... Heart and Song

SUNDAY 12TH MAY AND SUNDAY 19TH MAY

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.

International artists, Natalia and accompanied by pianist, Ayesha Gough, will perform well-known trios by Mozart and GCCO will accompany Natalia and Yuri, beloved concertos by Bach and Vivaldi for General Admission $50 Concession $4 5 Students $25 Students under 18 free when accompanied by TI CKE

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Adults $50 Concession $45 Students $25 Students under 18 free when accompanied by a paying adult

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CONCERT 1

DATE: Sunday 12th May 2:30pm–4:30pm

VENUE: A&I Hall Bangalow

CONCERT 2

DATE: Sunday 19th May 2:30pm–4:30pm

VENUE: Basil Sellers Theatre, Bond University

To buy tickets go to www.gcco.com.au

91580

Pottsville van park meeting

By Jo Kennett

AROUND 100 community members and Tweed Shire Council representatives attended a conciliation meeting on Wednesday, April 3, with proponents of a development application (DA) for a caravan park to the west of the Pottsville Ambulance Station.

The DA for the proposed caravan park on 1126 Pottsville Road was unanimously refused by councillors last September over issues including the ecological value of the site, tree removal, proximity to coastal wetlands, impact on koala habitat and sewerage.

The appeal of the decision by applicants Turner Contracting Pty Ltd resulted in the on-site conciliation meeting with a commissioner of the Land and Environment Court.

A crowd of community members from across the shire opposing the development were in attendance, including representatives from Team Koala, Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers, Friends of Cudgen Nature Reserve and Friends of the Koala (FoK).

“This proposed development for the caravan park, which includes 112 long-term residential sites, will significantly impact traffic, flooding, visual amenity, Aboriginal cultural heritage and most importantly our endangered koala population that must be protected at all costs,” Seabreeze resident Josie Styles said.

Tweed Shire Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis said the development “cannot go ahead under any circumstances.”

“The community has spoken,” she said.

“The council has spoken. All very clearly. We’ve all said no. It’s a koala corridor that really needs to be protected.”

FoK vice-president and Tweed Koala

coordinator Rhonda James said the main concern of the impact of the proposed manufactured housing estate “was that it will reduce connectivity and habitat and increase threats to the endangered Tweed Coast koala population.”

“The local koalas are already under stress and their numbers are holding stable due to efforts from council and community to increase habitat by planting and restoring existing habitat,” she said.

“The proposal is strategically placed adjacent to the 300 hectare Pottsville Wetland and, in the north, the Pottsville Environmental Park and Koala Beach conservation areas, all areas of high value koala habitat.”

Rhonda said the Assessment of Significance prepared supporting the proposal underestimated the impacts that would occur if the development went ahead.

“There was no assessment which addressed the habits and habitat requirement, including movement of koalas through the landscape,” she said.

“The removal of clumps of trees and individual trees which the koalas rely on will cause disruption and disorientation of the koalas as they move between the

areas of habitat.

“This results in the koalas becoming trapped in backyards or isolated trees threatened by traffic and dogs.

“The community supports the council and councillors’ decision to refuse the proposal and will continue to lobby for the protection of this important parcel of land.”

Koala Beach resident Irene Tims said hundreds of community members had put in “thousands of volunteer hours” in initiatives and events, including planting koala trees and restoring habitat and links for Tweed Coast koalas. The next hearing date is expected “on or before October 2024.”

Flu fears rise

THE PHARMACY Guild of Australia is urging Tweed Shire residents, especially the elderly, to get their flu shot as an “alarming number of flu cases” spike across the country.

In the first quarter of 2024 there were a staggering 26,836 influenza cases reported by the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS).

By February, case numbers were already double the number than what was reported the same time last year.

Pharmacy Guild National President Professor Trent Twomey says residents should get ahead of the flu season and get their vaccination now.

“The flu season typically runs from May to October,” Professor Twomey said.

“However, flu vaccines for the 2024 season are available now in community pharmacies across Australia.

“Community pharmacies stand ready to administer vaccines around the country and in Queensland, the state government is providing the flu vaccine to all residents aged six months and over for free until September 30.

“While in Western Australia the state government has announced free flu vaccinations to all West Australians aged six months and over during the months of May and June,” he said.

Professor Twomey said that getting vaccinated ahead of the flu season is important for protecting yourself and your loved ones from the flu and its complications.

“Although the vaccine will last throughout the year, it is most effective in the first three to four months following its administration,” he said.

According to the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI), people who received an influenza vaccine in late 2023 are still recommended to get the flu vaccine in 2024.

ATAGI also advises that flu vaccines can be given on the same day as other vaccines, such as Covid.

The Australian Government funds influenza vaccines for eligible pa tients under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).

$1,500,000

Multiple

Modern kitchen and bathrooms with country and mountain views from every window.

With almost an acre of outdoors room to play and situated in a quiet, low traffic area only minutes to town schools and shops, this is a country escape with benefits.

Local celebrity Odin put in a well-timed appearance in the bush opposite the site

Some of the residents at the conciliation meeting. Photo by Yvonne Gardiner

IT’S SCHOOL HOLIDAYS, SO TIME FOR FUN AT THE MARKET WITH FREE FACE PAINTING AND THE BEST LOCAL PRODUCE

SATURDAY 13TH & 20TH APRIL 8AM-11AM

SATURDAY 6TH JANUARY 8AM-11AM

29 DURANBAH ROAD, DURANBAH

29 DURANBAH ROAD, DURANBAH 91039

EPRIDEldership

with Heather McClelland

From little things Fingal grew

The Weekly is pleased to introduce our new columnist and Tweed Senior Ambassador Heather McClelland. Heather is eager to present the many views of our growing elderly population across topics such as ageism. Please join us in welcoming Heather to the pages.

Join Wedgetail team

By Jonathon Howard

WEDGETAIL HOSPICE, a beacon of compassionate care for palliative care patients, is reaching out for new volunteers to join their dedicated team.

Nurses and volunteers at Wedgetail work hand in hand, blending mutual respect and support to provide the highest quality of care for guests in their final days.

Training coordinator and long-time volunteer Autumne Camidge emphasised the indispensable role volunteers play in upholding the hospice’s renowned standard of care.

“Without our volunteers, Wedgetail would severely struggle to provide the highest quality palliative care for which we have become renowned,” she said.

Each year, Tweed Palliative Support (TPS) offers a comprehensive training program to equip volunteers with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve as volunteer palliative carers in the hospice setting. The training program is essential for ensuring volunteers can confidently fulfill their roles and

provide comfort and support to patients and their families.

TPS, a community-based and community-focused organisation, recognised the need for home-based palliative care services 25 years ago.

Since then, Wedgetail has evolved into a fully-fledged professional hospice facility while maintaining its home-based ethos.

Despite its growth and success, Wedgetail relies on the generosity and dedication of volunteers to continue providing exceptional care to its guests.

There are still vacancies available in this year’s training program and interested individuals are urged to apply immediately.

“New volunteers have the opportunity to make a profound difference in their community,” Autumn said.

The training program will run from April 30 to May 28, with sessions held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am to 3pm.

Anyone interested in joining the volunteer program are encouraged to contact the TPS office ASAP at: (02) 6672 8459.

I RECENTLY has the privilege to walk with Kate McKenzie through the remnant rainforest behind the houses adjoining the beach at Fingal Head, to view areas once devastated by sand mining. I saw true remediation on display after 37 years of volunteering.

The myth that sand-mined land cannot be remediated couldn’t stop Kate from deciding to intervene. The sand miners had attempted remediation, planting the introduced bitou bush that became a monoculture and further devastated the coastal ecosystem.

“I worked alongside my neighbour with my young children in tow and began to remove the Bitou by hand, one bush at a time, and then to propagate and plant indigenous species. My sons planted those two larger trees and nowadays you can see these more spindly ones my grandchildren are very proud of planting!”

Fingal Head Coastcare emerged from Kate’s work and 32 hectares of regenerated native vegetation, including coastal woodland, littoral rainforest, dunal and headland vegetation thrive. Habitat improvement for many endangered fauna species is evidenced by the increase of bird species from 28 post sand mining to 246 in the 2023 count.

This year Kate was awarded ‘Volunteer of the Year’ in Tweed’s Australia Day Honours. As I talked with her I found her a most unassuming

person building a legacy with determination. She truly embodies eldership pride.

Kate recalled how inspired she’d been as a young person by a family friend called Dorothy. “She always had something to show you. She knew the name of every plant, focusing on different aspects and describing its details. You could see she really loved her work as a botanist.”

Some of Dorothy’s passion may have rubbed off. Kate also has a way with people. She says shes become more forthright as she’s got older.

“If there’s some sort of conflict in a group I seem to be able to see all the different perspectives” she explains. “I mull things over. It may take a while but eventually I seem to be able to come up with a consensus solution everyone can live with.”

Like Dorothy, Kate is a natural educator. She has imparted her extensive botanical, ornithological and bush regeneration knowledge and skills not only to the Fingal Head Coastcare members but to the broader community. Surprising to her is the respect she is held in by the Indigenous rangers at Fingal Head. Some examples of work this elder has engaged in with younger people include the Junior Landcare Group at Fingal Head Public School; an extensive hands-on environmental program at Kingscliff Mini School’s ‘Growing Coastal’ program; workshops with Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council Junior Ranger program and field trips for many local secondary schools.

My thanks to Kate McKenzie and to Kay Bolton, whose nomination for the Australia Day honours list I have mined.

The staff at Heritage Brothers Funeral Services and Melaleuca Staaon Memorial Gardens are holding an open day on Saturday 20th April 2024 from 9am unal 1pm. Local residents and community members will have the opportunity to view the new faciliaes and even sneak a peek behind the scenes. Call in, ask staff any quesaons you have have on your mind, grab a coffee at our café and say hello.

• Born & Bred Locals

• Qualified Plumbers

• Fully insured

• Free septic inspection with every pump-out

A message from Mustangs President NIGEL

WE ARE back for another exciting season of Northern Rivers Regional Rugby League (NR RRL) and welcome the players, sponsors and supporters for the 2024 season.

I’d like to start by acknowledging our recently inducted life members including Ray Marrison, Glenn Weaver, Dave Lofts, Barry Harding, Scott Vickery and myself.

Next, I’d like thank our dedicated sponsors who enable the Mustangs Rugby League Football Club to continue each year.

A special welcome to our new sponsors, we have six new sponsors who have signed up in support of the Mustangs Club for the first time this year and we appreciate your support.

Mustangs and Colts are again partnered with Murwillumbah Leagues Club, which is our dedicated home ground for 2024, and we thank the club management for their ongoing support.

The club covers a lot of the costs in operating our regular matches as well as being a dedicated Mustangs sponsor and outstanding venue.

We are pleased to welcome returning and new players to the field this year across A-Grade,

LOFTS

Reserves, Under 18s and Ladies League Tag.

I’d like to extend a warm welcome to our new players and Mustangs staff this year and appreciate your contribution in the 2024 season.

We are always on the lookout for new Mustangs volunteers to join the club and help in operating our great local footy network, please apply at the Leagues Club for more information.

I would now like to welcome back our coaches for another exciting season including Brendon Hill for A-Grade, Monty Brown for Reserve Grade, Clint O’Keefe for Under 18s and Scott Vickery for the Ladies League Tag. A special mention needs to be made for our many loyal supporters. You are what keeps the club going and enables us to produce a strong Mustangs Club across the board.

Once again, I’d like to thank our season sponsors this year for their support. It’s the people who put their hand in their pocket that keep our club strong. Good luck to all teams this year.

Finally, I’d like to wish the Colts a strong season this year and the Colts president Tim Booth, all the best for the season. Remember to follow our progress via Tweed Valley Weekly and on our Facebook and Instagram pages for any upcoming special events and support our sponsors who always support us.

Murwillumbah Mares Coach SCOTT VICKERY

WE HAVE a few changes in the Murwillumbah Mares this year including some great new players and we’re eager to hit the field.

I’m also supported by Angela Kirby this year who is our new Mares Manager and will make a great new asset to the team.

We were short on numbers last year and ended with a disappointing finish to 2023, but the players are bouncing back with a full team raring to go.

This year we are focusing on improving our defence

and building on our attack to create a well-rounded side.

The Mares had a win in the trial recently which was a great result and good indication of what we’re capable of in the 2024 season.

The side is fortunate to welcome back Mares player Charlie Stone, who will provide a good base of attack. I’d like to invite the punters down to watch the girls play some exciting football this year and throw their support behind the Mustangs club.

Reserve Grade Coach MONTY BROWN

I’D LIKE to firstly acknowledge Troy and all the work he’s done for the Mustangs Reserve Grade side over the years.

I’m hoping to deliver a strong season this year and try to keep the positive results that are reflective of the Mustangs over the last couple of years.

We finished last year in the preliminaries and we’re hoping to improve our standing while keeping a high level that we’re known for.

I’d like to highlight players Matt Quinn, Ashley Tickner, Ethan Kane and Blake Hawkins for returning this year and bringing their experience back to the fold.

We also have a few young guns to mention this year including Oliver Andrews, Thomas Gresham,

Chad Jones and Brandon Williams.

The Reserve’s captain is Jake Vickery who will lead with his experience this year and will make a great on-field leader.

We have a strong side and the boys have worked really hard in the preseason.

It’s a humbling experience to be coaching Reserves after following in the footsteps of Troy McClean, Scott Vickery and Ian Booth.

Hoping I can do the boys justice as past coaches have done for the team.

Once again we’re encouraging the community to come down and support their local footy and our sponsors this NRRRL ‘24 season.

2024 Season Draw

AS THE new Under 18s coach, I’d like to acknowledge the efforts of Glenn Weaver, who is now a trainer and assistant coach giving me a hand.

We’ve had a few new signings this year and we should have another successful year ahead.

We made the grand final last year and we’re hoping to go one better and take the 2024 season win.

I’m really looking forward to coaching these

young guys and hopefully getting some good wins this year and playing some great footy during this season.

We’ve had two very successful trial games and we won both which is a great way to start the year.

Come down and support the young men in the Mustangs Under 18s this season. I’d like to thank our ongoing and new sponsors and supporters.

A-Grade Coach BRENDON HILL

THE MUSTANGS A-Grade side is looking strong this year and eager to get going.

We have lost a few key players from last year in Joe Besgrove and Toby MacIntosh, and we are focusing on rebuilding and bringing through young local talent.

We still have some of our experienced players in Adam Walker (centre), Wade Ayres (front rower) and Rob Shephard (second rower).

We are trying to keep a focus on using local players where possible and keep building on our club culture.

I’d be disappointed if we weren’t contending the semi-finals this year.

Training has been going strong so far this year with great numbers throughout the entire club.

Young players to watch this year are Matt Bollard and Cooper Wolf who both moved up from the

18s side last year.

As we’re a younger side, we hope to bring a quick and strong side to the field and use our skills in the best ways possible.

We welcome halfback Aaron Booth back to the club who has been playing his football in Brisbane and the Gold Coast over the last five or so years. He has been a great addition to the team both on and off the field with his experience and knowledge.

Finally, we are looking forward to getting back on the field after having a strong trial a couple of weeks ago, and hopefully being as competitive as we were last year.

Come down and enjoy your local footy this season and remember to support our great home club at Murwillumbah Leagues Club and our sponsors.

Just bring this add & spend $250 in store to go in the draw to win. For everything you need for your farm give the Murwillumbah branch a call today. Open 7am-5pm weekdays.

FOOTY TIPPING POINTS LADDER

WHAT AN exciting and entertaining round of matches so early in the season with an average of almost 50 points per game. I’m not convinced the defence is getting worse but more so the athletic improvements, skill refinement, rule changes and simply the speed of the game is leading to more fatigue and defensive errors and therefore more tries, some spectacular. The Broncos Melbourne game kicked off the weekend with Coates and Mam providing some moments of just magic. Two quality teams with elite athletes everywhere points were of a premium and you can understand why Kevvie wasn’t happy about scoring 32 points in a match and

losing! The Bulldogs and Roosters match was nothing short of crazy. The Dogs exploded before putting the cue in the rack with the Roosters defying logic with a fair send off of Dom Young who completely got it wrong and a dodgy call on Victor to score with 11 v 13 and almost snatch victory.

I asked a high level coach their thoughts on how you would address the teams after that and I agreed with him.

Although the Dogs won, Ciraldo would have been filthy how they started so well and nearly let it slip, where Robbo would have heaped praise on his team (albeit filthy how they started) for their effort and desire at the back end and also knowing suspensions and injuries will play a part this week he needs all hands on deck. The Knights got another win in abysmal conditions but somehow 10,000 people still turned up to watch Newcastle grind out a win. They sure are some amazing fans and all got to see a miraculous pass from the headline stealer in Lomax to set up a try. The Warriors are everyone’s second team at the moment and continue to shine with Shaun Johnston turning back the clock and putting on a proper clinic against the hapless Rabbitohs. They are in disarray, there

is no two ways about it. Maybe a few weeks without ‘brain snap’ Latrell might help them because he is no use at the moment. A loss against a fresh Cronulla at home could see the end of him by round 6.

A big congrats to DCE for the milestone game on the weekend being the most capped Eagle of all time on 310 (although Beaver did play 70 for the Northern Eagles).

The Dolphins sit at the top and I just love watching the Hammer in full flight getting the Phins up, he is such a beautiful mover who glides across the turf. The only saving grace for our Titans is that Souths are going worse. They played 20 mins of good footy, no surprise this occurred with AJ in the 6 jumper closer to the ball and it’s a tough road ahead.

The Tweed Seagulls u/19’s girls side bowed out of the Harvey Norman competition on the weekend after a wonderful year and plenty of the Northern Rivers girls did themselves proud. Unfortunately the weather wiped out footy everywhere in the Northern Rivers Friday for League Tag, Saturday for Juniors and Sunday for seniors so all clubs try again this weekend kicking the season off in round 2.

See you at the footy. Quinny

Todd

Bobby

•

•

•

IT’S ALL about the winter fashion at great prices for the annual Pre-loved Clothing Sale hosted by All Saints Anglican Church in Murwillumbah on Saturday, April 13.

There’s a mountain of quality stock this year including winter woolies, jeans, shirts, jackets, shoes, scarves, handbags, doonas and books.

Event organiser Merilyn Gilmore said the church members have even dressed up in preloved outfits to show the community just how stylish you can look.

“There’s a great range of fashion for everyone this year,” she said.

“And the best news is that every item is only $2, that’s right, affordable fashion.”

Ms Gilmore said the event is always a way for local families to make ends meet.

“This is the perfect opportunity for families to buy some winter woolies and keep warm,” she said.

“We have a range of donated items and we’re also still accepting items.”

The event is taking place inside the Anglican Church Undercroft from 8am to 11.30am.

For more information, or to make a donation, please phone (02) 6672 2013.

WINTER CLOTHING SALE: Join the fun and grab a bargain at the Anglican Church fashion sale

A new era of men

By Gerold Mayr Counsellor, Life Coach and MKP Elder

SELF DEVELOPMENT and personal growth are becoming more and more of interest to many people.

In the last few years especially, men are keen to look at and change how they live their lives. One may be stuck in a midlife crisis, reoccurring issues in relationships, communication problems at work and home, or something else.

Over the years, I have been involved in ‘men’s work’ and have observed that men want to personally grow and move away from old behaviours that keep them in a place that has now became uncomfortable, rather than “I am broken, I need fixing”. Which points to an increased awareness for what’s not working in life.

Why a man is searching for a new way of being can be sparked by various reasons. What I hear most is that men are feeling stuck, they want to grow as a person, missing authentic connection with other men or feeling their life has flatlined and they are looking for adventure in a good way.

The adventure that the Man Kind Project (MKP) offers is not one to scale a mountain

or to cross an icy stream, rather it is the exploration of one’s self.

Seeking insight into how ‘I’ am and where certain patterns come from. And maybe the scariest is the inquiry into my emotional being. How it has been suppressed, denied and shaped by others — mainly during our upbringing.

One of these inquiries into self is taking place near Uki on the weekend of May 17-19.

A group of about 24 to 36 men, aged 18 to 80 years, from all walks of life, supported by around 45 staff members, will be on the journey to find out about themselves.

The challenge of change is not an easy one to take on, it requires support through others. This is why I love the work of the MKP, because it does not stop with a weekend workshop.

The real value in my eyes lies in the network of regular groups which are run in many places such as Uki, Mullumbimby and Nerang and offer the possibility for anyone to receive and give support.

Please find out if this adventure is for you via: www.mankindproject.org.au or by phoning: 1300 948 947. The Man Kind Project is a volunteer run not-for-profit organisation.

Trumpet concerto in E Flat

ROBERT SCHUMANN Symphony No. 4 in D Minor, Op.120

Date: Sunday 21st April 2024

Time: 2.30pm

Venue: Tweed Heads Civic Centre, Brett Street, Tweed Heads NSW

Tickets: Adults $50 I Concession $45

Students $20 I Children 18 years & under, free of charge (when accompanied by an adult)

Tickets can be purchased at:

www.nrso.com.au

or at Murwillumbah Music 02 6672 5404 (credit card facility)

Tickets also available at the door if not sold out (cash or credit card)

Enquiries 0478 012 324 JOHANNES

New masterpieces at the Tweed Regional Gallery

By Madeleine Murray

THE TWEED REGIONAL GALLERY is going from strength to strength. As part of the exciting Sharing the Collection initiative, four masterpieces arrived from the National Gallery on February 29.

Three works by Margaret Olley and one by Italian still life master Giorgio Morandi now hang alongside the sublime Haystacks, Midday by French Impressionist Claude Monet on the dove-grey wall at the end of the first main exhibition room.

The new works include Morandi’s Natura Morta, painted in 1956, as well as two still lifes and an interior by Olley — Pomegranate I, Katie’s Quinces, and Morning Interior.

Tweed Regional Gallery Director Ingrid Hedgcock said the arrival of the latest works was another milestone for the gallery and for regional art in Australia.

“We’re honoured to offer people the opportunity to view these works from the national collection and are so grateful to the National Gallery for supporting us through this incredible initiative,” Ingrid said.

“To have these works alongside the Monet, which has been incredibly popular, not only shows the depth and richness of the national collection but signifies the importance of granting regional audiences access to seminal works of this kind.

“It’s touching to note that Morandi was one of Olley’s favourite artists — so to show these pieces together is really special.

“Rarely do we consider the artist as viewer but Olley travelled the world to see artworks by the modern masters she admired. She understood

the importance of seeing artworks in person rather than in reproductions.”

One of Australia’s most notable and prolific still life painters, Olley drew inspiration from simple household objects, often using sculptural arrangements of dried or fresh leaves and flowers revealing surface and texture through colour and light.

The new Olley works painted in the 1970s will be shown near the recreation of her famous home studio, which allows an immersive glimpse into her life and legacy as an artist.

At the unveiling event, Philip Bacon AO, whose Brisbane gallery represents the Olley estate, said it had been fortuitous that the TRG had received the Olley bequest, which has helped to make it the leading regional gallery in the country.

Like Olley, Morandi kept objects such as vases, bottles and jars in his studio to use as subject matter in compositions.

Natura Morta shows Morandi’s idiosyncratic use of prosaic formations and muted tones to present an intimate portrayal of domestic pieces.

The works will be on view at the Tweed Regional Gallery, Murwillumbah, until October 26, 2025. For more info, go to gallery.tweed. nsw.gov.au

Director Ingrid Hedgcock with the Morandi Natura Morta. Photo Luke Marsden

Three Olleys, the Monet and the Morandi grace the gallery. Photo Luke Marsden

Exhibitions Tina Wilson and Installer Sam Steinhauer carefully hang Margaret Olley's Pomegranate.

Sculpture show at ART POST UKI

By Madeleine Murray

A SCULPTURE SHOW called Passing Through will be on at Art Post Uki from April 11. The relief sculpture show by Julia Collingwood is about the cycle of life.

This tender exhibition begins at the moment of conception with a sculpture of a couple making love, and moves through different phases of life until the end shown simply by a red flower and an old misshapen coat.

Moments in between such as a grandmother with her newborn grandchild, a flamboyant young man exuding energy and hope, and a beautiful young girl

emerging from childhood make this exhibition a poignant meditation on life, change and impermanence.

Julia explained that her visits to Italy and Greece over the past couple of years were the kernel of this exhibition.

“Travelling around visiting museums and archaeological sites, I was drawn to the ancient sculptures and artefacts,” she told The Weekly. “Some of the portraits were incredibly moving and astonishingly modern. They could have been created yesterday.”

Julia’s first exhibition at Art Post Uki in 2018 was of paintings but her first love is clay. These sculptures are all bisque fired and then mostly finished with a little oxide and wax.

Passing Through opens at 6pm, Thursday, April 11, at Uki Post Office, 1464 Kyogle Rd, Uki. Exhibition closes May 22. Refreshments provided. Opening hours Monday to Friday 7am-5pm, Saturday 7am-12.30pm, Sunday 8am-12.30pm.

Youth Fest at Murwillumbah

By Madeleine Murray

MURBAH YOUTH FEST 2024 will take place on Saturday, April 13, in the heart of Murwillumbah.

Knox Park will come alive all day with Battle of the Bands, Talent Quest, free workshops, creative market stalls, bubble soccer, games, food trucks, skate fun and much more. There are prizes to be won as well!

The drug and alcohol-free event promises to bring the community together and empower local youth.

It is the second edition of a Youth Week event born last year to create new opportunities for young people and regain public presence, actively contributing to the social and cultural life of the vibrant town and surrounding villages. Murwillumbah Youth Action Group established in November 2022 has been involved and consulted in the co-design and planning of this event.

“With financial support from the NSW Office for Regional Youth and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, we are able to throw a day to celebrate and recognise the

told The Weekly.

“We are extremely grateful for the support we have received this year from local businesses such as IGA, Lions Club, Murwillumbah Services Club, Crystal Castle, Jet Real Estate, Bakers Delight, Coles, SAE, Kmart, Sportsworld and others for their in-kind and funding contributions.

“It is really rewarding to see how the local community is acknowledging the value in supporting events like this to improve youth development opportunities.

“We also have a number of local youth-related services collaborating with us on the day: Headspace, The Family Centre, The Scouts, SFX, Solid Mob, One Vision and others co-facilitating activities with our YAG.

“This is the second Youth Festival run in Murwillumbah ever, so we are extremely excited about this initiative.

“The event is part of a larger project that aims at creating an ongoing platform for local youth to meet, share, create and run their own events and initiatives sustainably.”

With a variety of stalls, games, workshops and food, this will be a great day out for the whole family.

Murbah Youth Fest is on from 10am-3pm on Saturday, April 13 at Knox Park, Murwillumbah. Wet weather alternative is the Murwillumbah Community Centre. For more info, go to insta

5 Brisba St Murwi umb

Join us for two exciting School Holiday screenings!

RICHARD THE STORK AND THE MYSTERY OF THE GREAT JEWEL follows Richard’s adventures while wintering on a vast lake in North Africa.

Meanwhile, THE TIGER’S APPRENTICE tells the tale of Tom, a regular boy unexpectedly drawn into a fantastical world when his unconventional grandmother reveals herself as the guardian of a phoenix egg.

In May, get ready for the incredible ASH GRUNWALD!

Tickets are on sale NOW www.ashgrunwald.com

RICHARD THE STORK AND THE MYSTERY OF THE GREAT JEWEL

Enjoying wintering on a Large lake in North Africa, Richard learns that this time he will not be entrusted with such an honorable and responsible mission as to lead the flight of a flock of storks home to the north. Not wanting to put up with this, he runs away on an independent journey full of dangers and adventures. Along the way, Richard will have to meet a flock of sparrows in trouble, captured by the evil marabou birds led by the greedy peacock Zamano. To gain freedom, the birds will have to unite in a friendly team, show courage, ingenuity, and ingenuity to solve the puzzle and find a mysterious treasure with jewels

Wednesday 24/04/2024 - 11:00AM

THE TIGER’S APPRENTICE

The story centres on a normal boy, Tom, who gets drawn into this world against his wishes when his eccentric grandmother who he lives within San Francisco’s Chinatown turns out to be the guardian of the phoenix egg. When his grandmother perishes in battle and is spirited away in a ghost cart, Tom must apprentice with an unlikely mentor - a tiger, Mr. Hu - to learn ancient magic and become the egg’s new protector. They team up with an unlikely band of exotic creatures, each representing a different sign of the Chinese zodiac, who can morph into human form while retaining their innate animal characteristics.

Thursday 18/04/2024 - 11:00AM.

Julia works on relief portraits in her studio.

Hoopla Circus Performer Basketball comp with the Police

1. You can no longer put tea bags into your green bin. True or False?

2. How many years did recently retired Fire captain Greg Hayes put in at Murwillumbah Fire & Rescue?

3. How many years has Mapp & Hession Pharmacy been operating?

4. What does TAFE stand for?

5. What is the collective noun for a group of owls?

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Originally my starting point for the business was noticing a large portion of people were disgruntled with the service and pricing of IT services at the time. I knew there was a better, easier solution.

With 10 previous years of IT experience working nationally and internationally, I had the knowledge and tools to step out on my own and bring my vision to light.”

With Click IT, I provide friendly, simple and cost-effective fixes to all home and small business clients.

Up front and fixed pricing means nobody is stuck with a surprise bill, and my prices have always been one of the most affordable

“I started Click IT in 2009 with the aim to bring more aff ordable, friendly and knowledgeable technical support to the Gold

options since I started. All of my clients receive personal free phone support and advice.

Moving to the Tweed in recent years, I am more eager than ever to service Northern Rivers clients and keep my work as local as possible. Still providing low cost, and friendly in home service to this day and many to come.

If you would like to speak with me about anything IT related, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Brett Reeve 0400 245 281

Continued from page 14.

Mr Rose said crews have commenced works with site establishment, vegetation clearing and temporary access construction at several sites.

“Stabilisation works have commenced on the upslope slip with rope access technicians installing rock anchors for stabilisation using a specialised machine called a Marini,” he said.

“Council is undertaking the acquisition of some private land adjacent to Urliup Road to help with the restoration process, while an easement has been created on a downhill slip site for future maintenance.

“To ensure the safety of council’s waste recovery contractor, temporary arrangements for a communal collection point for waste recovery services will remain in place until after the roadworks are complete, when the service will return to normal.

“With works commencing, the road will be temporarily closed to traffic between 9am and 3pm, Monday to Friday, between 1041 to 1110 Urliup Road, weather permitting.

“Motorists are urged to please use Hogans and/or Dulguigan roads as alternative routes during works hours.

Electronic signage at the start of Urliup Road (both ends) will advise of changed conditions plus any up-todate information.”

YOUR THOUGHTS: How’s your road fairing, or do you live on Urliup Road? The Weekly would like to hear from you. Please send your thoughts or letters to editor@theweekly.net.au

“Outside of these times sites will remain open under a single lane with traffic lights to ensure the safety of motorists and on-site crews, and to help facilitate the movement of heavy machinery and equipment.

Car for Sale

HYUNDAI TUSCON 2005. V6, 246,000 km, towbar, auto, serviced regularly, sunroof. $8,000. Ph: 0432 665 723 2003 FORD FALCON WAGON, deceased estate one owner, white, 170,000kms, auto, cold aircon, power steering, electric windows, radio and CD player, rear luggage curtain, tow bar, registered until July 2024 and just serviced. $6,000ono. Phone: 0407 120 113

Caravan for Sale

CARAVAN VISCOUNT Gazelle Nipper 1994 model in excellent condition. Side door 4.2M. Rego until March 31, 2025. Number plate: W00550. New awning and side panels. $14,500. Ph: 0475 311 550 (Murwillumbah)

For Sale

TOTAL GYM APEX61 as seen on TV. All accessories. Used 5x (too old, too fat) $900 firm, Darlington Drive. Phone (07) 5523 2520

FOR SALE Single bed. White steel frame in spring mattress. Used one week only. Electric blanket, fitted sheets included. $295. Ph: (07) 5523 2520 Darlington Drive

FOR SALE King Single Adjustable Bed. As New only 4 months old. Was $4,000 now $850. Pickup Banora Point. Ph: 0439 769 277

KIMBERLEY KAMPER PLATINUM 2009

Excellent condition. $23000. Tweed/Coolangatta area. Please call 0448552336

BLACKWOOD DINING TABLE with 6 chairs. $600, White outdoor dining setting with 4 chairs $75, Jarrah coffee table $100. Ph: 0427 758 939

Positions Vacant

GARLIC PLANTERS WANTED! Garlic Planters Wanted to assist with garlic planting at farm near Murwillumbah. $25 per hour, expected 5-8 hours per day. Commencing Mid-March, first in best dressed. Please contact Anna on 0420 249 925 for selection inquiries

TWEED HEADS COOLANGATTA TAXIS LOOKING FOR WORK? NEED EXTRA CASH?

All training provided. Join our friendly team right now. Phone 07 5536 3371

National Transport & Logistics company requires HC/MC seasonal cane truck drivers at Condong, Broadwater & Harwood Sugar Mill sites. Competitive pay rates. Send Resumé/CV to Wendy.Keel@sctlogistics. com.au or call 0409 568 795 during office hours.

Sing for Free

Sing For Fun

Bene t for Health and Mind. Phone Margaret: 0438 819 809

John Charles Wright

Passed away on 6th April 2024. Aged 72 years.

Late of Brays Creek and formerly of Chinderah.

Beloved husband of Nida.

Loved father of Tahnee and Alex.

Brother of Kevin (dec), Chris (dec) and Dorothy.

A private family service for John has been held.

“KJ”

Kayla Jade Whitten

30.09.02- 12.4.14

To our darling Kayla

Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure.

You are loved beyond words & missed beyond measure.

Lots of love always & forever Mum, Dad, Kobi-Lee, Pop, Shannyn, Danika, family & friends xxxx

“Even

Dragons Abreast Rising tennis ace

MURWILLUMBAH

TENNIS Club is buzzing with excitement as one of their own, Maddison Hardgreaves, has clinched a coveted spot to represent the North Coast Tennis Team at the upcoming State Championships in May.

Maddison’s remarkable journey from the district level to the state stage has been a source of pride for the community.

Having been a cherished member of the Murwillumbah Tennis Club for many years, Maddison’s dedication and talent have shone brightly during her recent competitions.

Most notably, she competed in the District, Far North Coast, and North Coast trials with her school, where she demonstrated exceptional skill and determination.

During the trials held in Grafton last week, Maddison showcased her prowess on the court, secur ing second place in her pool and an impressive third place overall.

Such a feat has so lidified her position as a rising star in the regional tennis scene and earned her the opportunity to compete at the

State Championships.

Now, as Maddison gears up to represent the North Coast Tennis Team in Newcastle, the community is rallying behind her and her family to help alleviate the financial burden associated with travel and accommodation.

“We are thrilled to see Maddison’s hard work and dedication pay off with this incredible opportunity,” Murwillumbah Tennis Club trea-

By Jo Kennett

THE TWEED’S own Dragons Abreast Wollumbin team have their sights set firmly on France in 2026.

and laughter”, said Anne

The overall aim is participation and inclusiveness of all ages and abilities.

The team has been inspired by their strong performance at the New Zealand IBCPC Festival last year (2275 participants), and the wonderful racing, friendship and camaraderie that they experienced at this event.

“As a tight-knit tennis community, we want to do everything we can to support her and her family as they embark on this journey.”

For those who wish to contribute, donations can be made through bank transfer to the Murwillumbah Tennis Club’s account with the reference ‘Maddison’. Alternatively, cash donations can be arranged directly with Coach Irene Durrough at the Club. Maddison and her family express their heartfelt gratitude to the community for their support and encouragement.

Details for donations are as follows:

Murwillumbah

Tennis Club

BSB: 732 584

ACC: 070283

REF: Maddison

Fundraiser fun

The fundraiser was hosted Nikki Collis, who said she was “overwhelmed with the support”

“We are hoping to reach

“I’d like to thank all our amazing sponsors – it’s been amazing and overwhelming.”

Nikki said she wanted to express her gratitude and outline why this event was so important. “We raised the funds for Cancer Council NSW in the hope that other families can have a smoother experience with cancer in life,” she said.

“Cancer is never easy but fortunately with research from Cancer Council we can win the fight against this disease and help families live life to the fullest.”

August 2026 will see teams from around the world come together in friendship and competition at Lake Bourget, the largest lake in France, for the International Breast Cancer Paddling Commission Festival.

The festival will include a celebration of the 30th anniversary of the founding of breast cancer dragon boat paddling.

In 1996, Canadian doctor Don McKenzie challenged the prevailing medical thinking of avoiding upper body exercise after treatment.

He instead recommended dragon boating for people who had been through treatment for breast cancer as the epitome of strenuous, repetitive, upper body exercise.

And so began a worldwide movement of approximately 15,000 paddlers globally.

“After I had completed my treatment, a friend repeatedly encouraged me to come along to dragon boating. Initially I was hesitant about it, but eventually went for a ‘Come and try’ session one Saturday morning” Amanda said.

“And I loved it! It is difficult to put into words how great it is to regain your strength and to feel empowered again.

“And it’s just magic to be out on the Tweed river in the mornings and evenings.

“I had no experience at all, and I would encourage anyone who has had a breast cancer diagnosis to come and join us on a Saturday morning for a ‘Come and try’.

“You don’t necessarily have to be aiming for France, but you will experience a great supportive community, exercise and fitness, and well as fun

The announcement that the next festival venue would be France seemed like a huge goal to undertake, but as usual, this team is going to go for it!!

There will be many months of training and fundraising ahead.

They are steadfastly supported by the entire Wollumbin Dragon Boat Club, for which they are greatly appreciative.

They would also like to express their appreciation for the support they receive from our local communities, and in particular Tursa, Murwillumbah Services Club, and the Tumbulgum Tavern.

The “Come and Try” sessions are held at Tumbulgum on Saturday mornings, and it is advisable to phone and book in for these.

If you or someone you know is a breast cancer survivor and would like to give paddling a try, please contact Anne on: 0428 446 482.

THE CANCER Council Fundraiser at Condong Bowling Club was a huge success despite heavy rainfalls in the lead up to the

Dragons Abreast Wollumbin provides a "face" for breast cancer statistics

First-home buyers boost

By Jo Kennett

WHILE THE home of your dreams may still seem out of reach, there’s a good chance your borrowing capacity will soon increase by tens of thousands of dollars, with analysts saying it’s a good time to buy.

Australia’s big four banks, CBA, NAB, Westpac and ANZ, are all forecasting at least three 0.25 per cent cash rate cuts by the end of 2025, with one bank predicting there could be as many as six by then.

The latest research

from Canstar shows that someone on an income of $98,218 would see a $27,000 boost in their borrowing power if the Reserve Bank delivers on those cuts.

That increase in capacity could see buyers able to borrow up to $419,000 compared to $392,000 now, while for a couple the $63,000 difference means being able to borrow $969,000 after rate cuts compared to $906,000 now. If there were six rate cuts by the end of 2025,

singles could see their borrowing power rise by nearly $60,000 and couples by $134,000.

However, Canstar finance expert Steve Mickenbecker warned buyers that potential property price rises could mitigate the benefits of waiting for interest rate cuts.

“First-home buyers don’t have the luxury of waiting as they grapple with weighing up the borrower’s power recovery against rising home prices,” he said.

“New buyers should look into all the options available to them to get a foothold.

“It can make a difference to put savings into a high interest account, maybe even the government’s First Home Super Saver Scheme and investigate stamp duty exemptions, grants and shared equity options.

“Anyone looking to buy will also need to be selective about their loan choice. It’s about getting the lowest rate offer to maximise their borrowing capacity.

“Rate cuts will deliver a release from the holding pattern as buyers will be able to borrow more.”

Hot property

OUR HOT Property this week is truly special. Not only is it a beautifully renovated historic charmer, this rural haven is just minutes from Kirra Beach and all the action and excitement of the southern Gold Coast and Tweed Heads.

Number 19 Quambie Road, Cobaki, is a four-bed, three-bathroom home on 3.43 hectares with a large saltwater pool, a tennis court with lights, a spring-fed dam, horse facilities and everything you need for funfilled, happy days.

Built in 1880, the property has been tastefully renovated while preserving its historic charm, with hardwood floors throughout.

It’s near the M1, for an easy trip to Brisbane, the Gold Coast or Byron Bay.

The property is zoned RU2 with diverse potential uses appealing to those seeking innovation. It has 33 solar panels and a 8.2kw inverter

It has a four-bay farm equipment shed, fruit trees and raised garden beds, a flat riding area and a spring fed dam.

Ducat Park is on the market with Guy Ethell at Real Specialists Coolangatta so give him a call if you would like to take a look at this beautiful property.

Relief is in sight for first-home buyers

THREE HECTARE HAVEN JUST MOMENTS FROM WORLD CLASS BEACHES

19 Quambie Road, Cobaki

Ducat Park offers a charming opportunity for a tranquil lifestyle, either as a permanent residence or a retreat from urban chaos, with caretaker accommodation included. Originally built in 1880, the property has been tastefully renovated while preserving its historic charm. Located in Cobaki, it promises ample recreational activities such as swimming, tennis and beach outings, just a short drive away from Kirra Beach. For the boaties Lakes Drive boat ramp is just 8 minutes away. Positioned conveniently near the M1, it facilitates easy travel to Brisbane or Byron Bay. The property's zoning as RU2 offers diverse potential uses, appealing to those seeking innovation. Additionally, with 33 solar panels and an 8.2kw inverter, self-sufficiency becomes a viable option. Notably, Ducat Park's proximity to amenities like Gold Coast International Airport, universities and hospitals enhances its appeal as a desirable coastal rural property. For the boaties Lakes Drive boat ramp is just 8 minutes away.

FOR SALE - PRICE GUIDE $2,950,000

402/275 GOLDEN FOUR DRIVE, BILINGA

3 2 2

SOPHISTICATED COASTAL LUXURY LIVING

INSPECTIONS BY APPOINTMENT

Welcome to Bianca, where coastal luxury awaits you! Set within an exclusive complex of just thirteen residences, Bianca offers the pinnacle of beachfront living. Step inside this modern sleek 192m2 retreat to discover three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and premium finishes throughout, combining contemporary design with seaside comfort. The expansive living area seamlessly connects to a stylish kitchen equipped with high-end appliances. Step out onto your private balcony to soak in breathtaking ocean vistas, encompassing the tranquil coastal ambiance and the lively Coolangatta skyline. Whether you're seeking a permanent sanctuary or a luxurious holiday escape, Bianca presents an opportunity to own your own slice of paradise!

52

GRASS

TREE CIRCUIT, BOGANGAR

LOW-MAINTENANCE COASTAL HAVEN

INSPECTIONS BY APPOINTMENT

Escape to your own piece of paradise with this stunning coastal lifestyle retreat. Nestled amidst lush greenery and only a short stroll from the beach and boutique village, this property offers the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. Step into a world of comfort and relaxation as you explore all that this home has to offer. Expansive interiors, ample space and sparkling pool for relaxation and entertainment. Featuring luxurious high ceilings in dining, open plan flow to outside undercover alfresco that is screened for all year use. Benefit from the enviable, laid-back coastal lifestyle and make this exquisite property your new sanctuary

110 Caloola Drive Tweed Heads

From the moment you step inside you will truly appreciate the cozy living and simple elegance that originates from the rustic accents of the internal brickwork, complimented by raked ceilings with exposed timber beams of this Australian Country style inspired (3) bedroom residence.

A lovely welcoming home with real character and charm that also offers upside to those that may wish to add value by modernizing to the current era, if so desired.

Properties within this area are extremely tightly held and with good reason. Likely to attract strong interest.

• Formal living w/ traditional open fireplace

• Air-conditioned meals area

• Colonial style kitchen w/ a safe watch over the pool area

• Master bedroom w/ ensuite, built in robes & access to rear garden

• Bedrooms (2) & (3) are also generous with built in robes

• Double garage (one side automatic) w/ painted flooring, internal & side access

• In-ground swimming pool (brand new chlorinator)

• Fully fenced sectioned rear yard, garden, entertaining area & pool enclosure

6/24-26 Dutton Street Coolangatta

Welcome home to a light filled (3) bedroom 1st level residence boasting a generous open layout and expansive terrace style balcony overlooking Goodwin Park.

Nestled within a boutique building comprising just (9) residences and constructed in 2009, your coastal abode offers an exclusive and intimate living experience.

With the added benefit of two allocated side by side car spaces and within 100m to Coolangatta CBD, this property presents the perfect balance of tranquillity and accessibility, promising an unparalleled lifestyle for those seeking an ultimate coastal retreat close to all amenities.

• Tiled living & separate dining zone

• Social kitchen w/ dishwasher

• Master bedroom w/ ensuite & built in robe

• Bedroom (2) w/built-in mirror robes

• Bedroom (3) has built-in mirror robe & also opens up to facilitate a multi-purpose room

• Euro-style laundry

• Ducted air-con & split system in bedroom (3)

• Generous terrace style balcony overlooking Goodwin Park

• Secure basement parking for 2 vehicles (side-byside)

• Pet friendly