Tweed Valley Weekly, July 11, 2024

BLAK, LOUD AND PROUD

By Jonathon Howard

TWEED SHIRE and Coolangatta residents are invited to join in t he annual NAIDOC March and Corroboree along Wharf Street to Jack Evans Boat Harbour on Friday, July 12.

The march will start at 10am

and follows a busy series of events for NAIDOC Week, which runs from July 7–14.

The celebration at Jack Evans Boat Harbour will incorporate storytelling, dance and other activities.

NAIDOC Week celebrates and recognises the history, culture and achievements of

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Locally, this means people of the Bundjalung nation: Ngandowal and Minyungbal speaking people of the Bundjalung Country, in particular the Goodjinburra, Tul-gi-gin and Moorung-Moobah clans. The week and its events are

coordinated by the Tweed Heads NAIDOC Committee.

This year’s NAIDOC Week theme is Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud, which honours and recognises the strength, vitality and enduring nature of First Nations culture, central to the Tweed’s identity.

Study results shock

By Jonathon Howard

MURWILLUMBAH’S POPULATION

has grown to 9,501 residents, and ac cording to a study by 4 Voices, the town is grappling with significant challenges. Rising rents, housing insecurity, unem ployment and a lack of internet access is putting a strain on residents, according to Jo Westh, founder and CEO of 4 Voices.

Ms Westh contacted The Weekly to high light the study’s results following a visit to Murwillumbah in March this year as part of a tour around 40 towns and cities

“We travelled south via the coast road and north via the inland,” she said.

“We wanted to understand local social issues such as domestic violence, home lessness and housing/financial insecurity.”

Unemployment and financial hardship

Unemployment in Murwillumbah stands

burden on those relying on government

By Jonathon Howard

HOMELESS SUPPORT service providers in Murwillumbah are reporting a sharp increase in the need for help this winter when compared to previous years and they’re struggling to keep up.

Internet disconnection

Shockingly, nearly 20 per cent of households in Murwillumbah are not connected to the internet, compared to the state average of 14 per cent. This lack of connectivity exacerbates the difficulty of job searching and accessing essential services, further entrenching residents in a cycle of poverty and un -

Financial breakdown

For a single person on JobSeeker renting a small apartment, the financial picture is grim. With JobSeeker providing $54 per day and maximum rent assistance of $11 per day, they have $65 per day to cover all expenses. After accounting for rent, which averages $58.57 per day, they are left with just $6.43 per day for all other

Services are stretched

As reported above by 4 Voices, the situation in Murwillumbah is dire and support services are seeing first-hand an increased need for support.

The Salvation Army second-hand store in Murwillumbah provides free blankets and clothing at management’s discretion, as well as offering contacts for support services such as Social Futures and the Murwillumbah Community Centre.

“I’ve seen in the last eight months there’s a definite increase in the need for help from residents in the Tweed Valley,” a spokesperson for Salvos Murwillumbah told The Weekly.

“Some people don’t have power or internet and often just visit for a chat or to buy a book.”

St Vinnies in Murwillumbah offers food vouchers at management’s discretion and is able to provide affordable or free clothing to those in need.

Murwillumbah Community Centre and Nullum House in Knox Park are the Tweed Valley’s busiest support services that aid many people sleeping rough and trying to make ends meet.

Nullum House is dedicated to helping those in need with hot food, computer access, services, laundry, crafts and showers

three days per week, but having no government funding and enough volunteers makes it a challenge.

Murwillumbah Community Centre manager Fiona Hunt has been in the role for the past six months and is shocked by the scale of the need.

“Homelessness is clearly a major issue in Murwillumbah, and after six months as the manager of Murwillumbah Community Centre, I’m shocked there is currently no state-funded homeless service provided,” she said.

“We have been running Nullum House

for the past 18 years without any government funding.

“Our staff are all volunteers at Nullum House, but imagine what we could do with a full-time support worker if we had the funding.

“We are distributing about 200 meals per week to older people who cannot make ends meet, as well as individuals and whole families from food providers such as Hare Krishnas and Heart of Love and Fair Share, who are private people making food for others at no cost.

Continue reading on page 11.

Community Centre manager Fiona Hunt with resident and former rough sleeper Pete Broad who knows first-hand the struggles of sleeping rough having slept in bushland near Brunswick Heads for more than three years, as well as Nullum House volunteer Carolynn Tabakhoff who has been a volunteer for six years.

So long Wollumbin Street Medical — we’ll miss you

When’s the party for Wollumbin Street Medical Centre? (TVW, July 4)

A great place, great staff and a lot of good support. They’ll be missed immensely.

Dan Morgan, Murwillumbah Fond memories of medical centre

My memories from Wollumbin Street Medical Centre (TVW, July 4), I have been going to this building as long as I can remember. My dad, my mother, my three kids and my seven grandkids all went there.

I have fond memories of Dr Barker who delivered my three at Murwillumbah Hospital. To Dr Kettle and Dr Snedden, it is with a heavy heart I wish you both a happy retirement. Thank you both so very much. I will miss you.

Joanne King (nee Togo ), Murwillumbah Memories from Wollumbin Street

In response to your request for information about early doctors at Wollumbin Street Medical Centre, here are a few memories. I grew up two doors down from the lovely house that contained the consulting room of the incumbent doctor. Dr Livingstone and his family lived there with the consulting rooms at the righthand corner of the building and the rest was a large comfortable home. The family consisted of Dr and Mrs Livingstone and sons Peter and Iain. Peter was several years older than me and Iain a year younger. I would often go up there to play. In the large backyard, which is now a part of Sunnyside car park, there was a huge old shed which previously stabled a horse, with a smaller shed which had housed the sulky but had been converted to a bothy which housed a live-in yardman. It was all empty in my time. Where the lovely nursery is now was

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Double House made patty, American Cheddar, House Made Relish, Double onion Rings in it AND on it.

BEEFED UP BACON

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House made patty, American Cheddar, Bacon House BBQ Sauce, Lettuce and House Mayo.

NEW ORLEANS $19

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AMERICAN CHEESEBURGER

$14

House made Patty with House Relish, pickles and American Cheddar

NEW YORKER

$22

House made Double patty, American Cheddar with bacon,caramelised onions, lettuce and smokey bbq sauce

a well-tended tennis court. Peter was a keen tennis player. One time during school holidays Peter organised a tennis competition with his high school mates. A lot of busy preparation went in the days before and Iain and I were taken aside and firmly told that we were to stay away from the court and in short make ourselves scarce. This was like a red rag to a bull and we hatched a devious plan to cause as much upset as possible. At the end of the court was a glasshouse decorated with many hanging ferns and a fish pond with a fountain. When the competition was underway we sneaked in through a window and opened the door facing the court. Eventually a ball was accidentally hit in. As the player ran into the fernery to retrieve the ball we turned on the fountain full force which drenched the unfortunate player, then we disappeared. We both got a lecture about our bad behaviour from our parents.

When Peter was due to go to university Dr L sold the practice and moved to Brisbane. The buyer was Dr Unwin. The new family consisted of a daughter Judy and two sons, John and Marcus. John was a few years older than me but Marcus was a very young preschool child. Mrs Unwin was so proud of Marcus’s beautiful hair that it was never cut until he went to school, so he spent his childhood being mistaken for a girl. Both boys became doctors and Judy a nursing sister.

Diana Eriksen, Murwillumbah

Lake Kimberley petition

Yes, floating islands have proven to offer critical habitats and food sources for water birds, fish and other species, but unfortunately these will not create a reserve for the swans as suggested in Lake Kimberley (TVW, July 4).

The reason being: while many waterfowl, such as ducks and geese, live happily in generational colonies, most individual pairs of swans seek out solitude for themselves and their babies, particularly during nesting and

rearing times.

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Buttermilk Fried Chicken, American Cheddar, Lettuce, House Mayo, Bacon

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LOADED FRIES $19

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I witnessed this firsthand at the Cobaki Village lake first hand when a single swan was attempted to be placed there by wildlife people. It was attacked by swan residents and had to be taken away.

The proposers of the Lake Kimberley floating island project should consult wildlife experts before proceeding with this if they think it will improve the lives of swans in the area.

Graham Mahoney, Chinderah Incorrect on C zones

In last week’s edition of The Weekly (TVW, July 4, Letters) there was comment by Mr Craig Huf, chair of Northern Rivers Farmers Federation, criticising C zone establishment as an effort to impede rural property development by Tweed Shire Council. He contends that the C zones are an optional extra that council chooses to implement and that other Northern Rivers Councils are not doing it. This is incorrect.

There is state requirement to implement the C zones and all councils are doing it.

The Northern councils (Ballina, Byron, Kyogle, Lismore and Tweed) are required by a ministerial direction to implement C zones consistently with the Northern Councils E Zone Review Final Recommendations Report. Byron, Ballina and Lismore shire councils have all progressed the application of C zones, and similar to Tweed, they have introduced it through a staged process.

Furthermore, Tweed Shire Council established a C zone working group which included the Policy Director (Environment) for NSW Farmers, two local farmers selected from Council’s Rural Land Industry Management Committee and one local farmer who also represents Caldera Environment Centre.

The agricultural industry have therefore definitely been engaged and consulted with throughout the process. Ballina Shire Council recently voted

to only apply C zones with landowner consent, however the NSW Department of Planning have advised that this approach is not supported as is it not consistent with the Final Recommendations Report.

Mr Huf would do well to investigate the facts of the issues he is writing about. Unfortunately, he is also criticising use of the A19 biodiversity section of the Tweed Shire Council Development Control Plan. This document is again underpinned by state and federal legislation.

Given that we live in a World Heritage listed environment with the most threatened species in Australia, our responsibility to protect our environment against inappropriate development is of course immense.

These government documents assist us, in consultation with farmers and other stakeholders to enact that.

Nola Firth, Tweed Shire Councillor, Murwillumbah Ward system could work

With projected population increases over the next 10 years, I believe a ward structure for Tweed Shire Council would serve residents more effectively than the current structure.

At present there are seven councillors. A potential new council ward structure that could be considered is three wards of three councillors, or a total of nine councillors.

Hence, an increase of two councillors who will be paid the same annual $33,000 allowance as the other seven current councillors with the mayor still selected by the elected councillors.

For those residents who prefer a council structure — which could not be introduced for at least another eight years due to council and state government procedures — whereby the mayor would be elected by Tweed residents, then an alternate council ward structure for that purpose could potentially be four wards of two councillors plus a mayor elected by Tweed residents — a total of nine councillors.

Bob Dwyer, Tweed Heads Nuclear question worth considering

I guess we will have to remove the words ‘I love her far horizons, I love her jewel sea’ from the famous poem if Bowen and Albanese have their way in vandalising our forests and seascapes with their ugly turbines.

Australia is the only significant economy in the world which doesn’t use nuclear power despite it having about a quarter of the world’s entire uranium reserves.

It is time for Australia to grow up.

Christine Samuels, Casuarina A Preferred Future

Having reflected in recent weeks on positive aspects of life in Murwillumbah and surrounding districts, it is perhaps an opportune time for residents to contemplate the actions that may be taken to work towards a preferred future.

Consider the following short term and long term actions:

1. Support business leaders in calling for a shuttle bus from the southern end of Brisbane Street to the Civic Centre as another way of alleviating parking issues caused by the fire in the multi-level parking station.

2. Support police in cracking down on drivers exceeding speed limits, overtaking dangerously, or driving vehicles with noisy exhaust systems.

3. Raise community awareness about the need for more social housing and encourage Tweed Shire Council to amend restrictions on second dwellings being allowed on rural properties.

4. Lobby for a 24/7 police presence in Murwillumbah

Read more in next week’s edition. Neville Jennings, Murwillumbah.

Please note the views on the letters page are those of the letter writer and not of the Tweed Valley Weekly. Letters must include a suburb and contact number for verification. Letters may be edited for length or legal reasons. Send your letters to editor@theweekly.net.au

Rain affecting business

By Jo Kennett

THE WEATHER, cost-of-living pressures and changes to NSW and Queensland school holidays are impacting local businesses, but it’s not all bad news.

“With Queensland school holidays now wrapped up, the feedback from most accommodation operators was that bookings from Queensland were strong,” Sally Scott, General Manager of The Tweed Tourism Company, said.

“Forward bookings from within New South Wales have seemed to be softer than Queensland, but with our intrastate school holiday period just starting this week, we’re anticipating that there may be some last-minute holiday bookings.

“We encourage Tweed locals to consider having a staycay close to home these school holidays and support our small businesses by taking a whale watching tour or river cruise and enjoying a drink or snack at our many great restaurants and cafes.”

Tweed Shire Council’s most recent user data shows that the Rail Trail continues to be popular with locals and visitors, with the March quarter for 2024 reporting over 1,200 people per week.

“Many people also stop along the way while walking or cycling and spend money in villages and at local businesses, so the benefit flows along the length of the trail,” Sally said.

“The visitor numbers across the region have been steady, mostly for weekend holidays, with attractions like the Rail Trail and the Uki Mountain Bike Park giving people new reasons to visit, or to come back again and explore more of the Tweed.

“There are some signs that people are travelling a little differently at the moment,

with pressures including the cost-of-living challenges and high interest rates influencing holiday spend, with some restaurants and cafes noticing this shift in travel behaviour.”

Kingscliff Beach Bowling Club general manager Phil Kelly said, “Trade in general has been steady but not great.”

“The weather is impacting trade and we are noticing a lot of people simply don’t have the extra funds to be going out much,” Phil said.

“We are noticing a lot of families coming in for dinner and then heading home, which is a big change.

“The Tweed is normally a beautiful sunny place at this time of the year, but as I said, the weather is impacting on how people spend their time and money.”

A staff member from Mooball’s Moo Moo Roadhouse said there hadn’t been a lot of people around since the rain started at the end of June, especially on the Rail Trail.

“The rain is really keeping them away,” she said.

The Weekly spoke to a number of staff members from local businesses, including

holiday accommodation, clubs and restaurants, some said that holiday business was surprisingly good with the annual migration of Victorians helping out, but for others not so much.

Hastings Point General Store manager Brett Moxon said it’s been a bit slower over the last week or so and he didn’t know if it was holiday related or weather related.

“I think it’s probably more just the weather,” he said.

“Queensland and NSW used to overlap in the holidays and now they are separated.

“We would normally get very busy in the overlapping week, but now it doesn’t seem to impact us nearly as much.

“It’s really hard to gauge because it’s raining right now and obviously that keeps people away from the beach.”

Brett said that business has been good with whale watchers visiting the headland.

“When daylight savings ends the nights are quieter, but the lunches and mornings have been good,” he said.

“We haven’t seen too much impact from cost-of-living pressures.”

Hastings Point General Store owner Brett Moxon said business has been slower

THE LEGAL LIGHT!

How changes to labour hire laws affect you

Recent changes to labour hire laws are designed to ensure labour hire workers get the same pay as the host firm’s regular employees who are doing the same work.

Employment lawyer at Stacks Law Firm, Geoff Baldwin, says the changes are detailed in one of two pieces of Commonwealth legislation called “Closing Loopholes”, which are designed to prevent big companies from using workers from labour hire firms to undercut their permanent employees.

“The new law says if a labour hire worker is doing the same job as a permanent employee, they must be paid the same for the same work,” Mr Baldwin said.

“The Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Act 2023 says companies which use labour hire workers, the company’s employees, trade unions, or the labour hire workers themselves are able to apply to the Fair Work Commission to make a ‘same work same pay’ order.”

There are exceptions, such as if the host company is small business (one with fewer than 15 employees); if the labour hire workers are “providing a service rather than their labour”; or if it is not fair and reasonable in all the circumstances to do so.

Such applications can be complicated and need evidence. There could be disputes about the amount of overtime workers received, their bonuses, allowances and hours of work. Employees would be advised to get legal advice from an experienced employment lawyer on how to best present their case to the FWC.

The two Acts include many other changes to workplace laws, which come into operation at different times this year.

The first Act, which came into operation in December 2023, protects workplace delegates and strengthens protection from discrimination in the workplace for employees being subjected to domestic violence.

Among other changes made by these Acts are changes to the definitions of “casual employee” and “employment”, allowing agreements over multi-enterprises, minimum standards in the gig economy and minimum standards in the road transport industry.

From 26 August 2024, workers (except those in small businesses) will have the right to disconnect - that is, not answer phone calls or messages from employers after work hours, unless such refusal is “unreasonable”.

Mr Baldwin says the move is a response to growing concerns about work-related mental health problems, such as stress and overwork. Workers will have to discuss their right to disconnect with their employers and it will depend on the nature of their work, emergencies, any compensation they receive for working outside ordinary hours and their role in the company.

Murwillumbah High update

By Jonathon Howard

MURWILLUMBAH HIGH School will be looking brand new for the start of the 2025 school year, as refurbishment works continue this month.

Murwillumbah High was included in the NSW Government’s commitment to rebuilding public education with a significant $1.4 billion investment in 2024/25, for new and upgraded schools in regional NSW.

The upgrade is set to transform the school, providing improved classrooms and specialist learning spaces, as well as enhancing the site with new paint, floor coverings, energy-efficient LED lighting, air conditioning, furniture, fittings and equipment.

The goal, according to the state government, is to welcome students and staff back to a “significantly upgraded Murwillumbah High School from the beginning of the 2025 school year”.

Progress update and transition

“The request for tenders for the next stage of work, which includes the bulk of the internal refurbishment, closed on June 24, 2024.

“A contract is expected to be awarded by mid-July 2024, with work commencing shortly thereafter.

“Consultation with school leaders is ongoing to select and order new furniture and to plan the transition back to the Murwillumbah High School site.”

Upcoming works

David Crossan Lawyer

Significant progress has already been made at one of Murwillumbah’s oldest schools.

“The installation of new roofs, fascia, gutters and downpipes on the three largest school buildings (Blocks B, D, and E) has been completed, along with new covered walkways connecting these buildings,” an update from School Infrastructure read.

“Additionally, a state-of-the-art on-roof solar energy system has been installed, further enhancing the school’s sustainability.

“As of June 1, 2024, work is underway to remove asbestos-containing material from the ceilings and other parts of the school buildings.

Following engagement with the school leadership, the next phase of work started on July 1.

“This phase involves removing three buildings that are not suitable for refurbishment and are no longer needed by the school,” a spokesperson told The Weekly.

“Demolition works will take place intermittently from early July to the start of September 2024.

“The first building slated for removal is the former classroom building (Block C), followed by Block S, previously used for science learning.

“Block P, a former staff study and storage area, will be removed towards the end of August 2024.”

Powerline theft concerns

SEVERAL RURAL landholders near Stokers Siding, Dunbible and Eungella have raised the alarm following the theft of live overhead powerlines over the weekend.

A landholder, who preferred not to be named, said multiple men allegedly entered several private properties and undertook the difficult task of removing about 400 metres of overhead cables.

The cable contains copper which can attract prices of around $15 per kilogram.

The estimated cost of the cable theft from multiple sites was valued at several thousand dollars, as well as the time taken to repair the damage.

The removal of the cable also resulted in power outages to properties across Stokers Siding to Eungella with about 30 properties left without power on Sunday, July 7.

“This is not only extremely dangerous but it’s placing unnecessary risk on the landholders,” the resident said.

“What if these cable thieves are inter-

rupted and drop or leave a live power cable on the ground, which risks harm or death to a landholder, this has the potential to become manslaughter.”

The property owner is working with Essential Energy and Tweed police to investigate the matter in the hope of an arrest.

“These people must have some sort of electrical experience or knowledge to understand how to remove a power cable without injury,” the landholder said.

The powerlines are high voltage transmission lines and carry about 240 volts.

“They did all this in the middle of the night on Saturday, July 6,” the landholder said.

“The message I want to extend to others is to be on high alert for potential cable thieves on your properties.”

Tweed-Byron Police District and NSW Police Media were contacted for comment on this matter and an update will be printed in a future edition.

HOT WATER & GAS HEATING SPECIALISTS

One of the power poles with cut cables

Greens, Liberals to team up to delay another Labor housing policy 27 June 2024

BLOCKED

BLOCKED

Greens Party blocked Labor’s $10 billion social and affordable housing package (HAFF)

(Greens Party voted with Peter Dutton’s Liberals and Nationals)

Greens Party still blocking Labor’s package to help renters buy a home (Help to Buy)

(Greens Party voted with Peter Dutton’s Liberals and Nationals)

BLOCKED

Greens Party now blocking Labor’s package to help build more rentals (Build to Rent)

(Greens Party voted with Peter Dutton’s Liberals and Nationals)

On every issue, the Greens are too extreme.

Authorised J Elliot, ALP, Tweed Heads

Tweed Link

An invite to a new food and drink event

Australia’s newest premier food and drink event, Savour the Tweed, will be held from 30 October to 3 November 2024, shining a light on the Tweed's culinary excellence and unparalleled food and drink provenance.

The inaugural 5-day celebration will feature a program of curated events to champion the region's local produce and those who bring it to life, from First Nations storytellers and passionate chefs to talented distillers, brewers and baristas, cheesemakers and farmers and an endless list of artisan producers.

The event will feature a stunning program of 20 distinctive events featuring local and visiting chefs with highlights including a First Nations welcome dinner and native food foraging, farm to fork menus and wild-caught seafood lunch, plus events showcasing healthy and sustainable food practices and ethical farming.

The program is co-curated by Tweed-based chef and author Christine Manfield and local food advocate Amy Colli of Straight to the Source and will highlight the diversity and prominence of the Tweed as one of Australia's leading food and drink destinations with farm tours, distillery and brewery masterclasses, long table lunches, storytelling, cooking classes and local degustation.

Ms Manfield said the program aimed to unearth the distinctive 'terroir' of the region by showcasing locally sourced seasonal produce and native ingredients and the Tweed's host of talented chefs and food and drink artisans.

Savour the Tweed will be a signature regional event,

created from the ground up, and I'm so excited to be collaborating with the Tweed's impressive line-up of food and drink producers, leading chefs and cultural storytellers to celebrate the distinctive flavours and character of the region and to offer a program of immersive experiences," she said.

"The Tweed's growing profile as one of Australia's leading culinary destinations is testament to the creative vision and hard work of the region's chefs, restaurateurs, growers, distillers, brewers, food producers and First Nations talent who will all feature throughout the event program."

Savour The Tweed is a partnership between Tweed Shire Council and The Tweed Tourism Company to boost regional tourism.

Sally Scott, General Manager of The Tweed Tourism Company, said this was an exciting addition to the region's annual tourism events calendar.

"As a 5-day event, Savour the Tweed is the perfect long-weekend getaway for foodies who also want to experience the Tweed's holiday highlights including the Tweed Regional Gallery and Northern Rivers Rail Trail in the hinterland to surf lessons and snorkelling with turtles from our seaside villages," she said.

The festival is a key investment by Council to host a signature event that showcases the region and highlights its culinary strengths.

For more information and to sign up for program updates and early ticketing details, head to visitthetweed.com.au/savourthetweed

Your voice, your events: Join Tweed’s

Council is asking for community feedback on the draft Tweed Events Strategy 2024 - 2028 and draft Events Sponsorship Policy, which aim to attract and support events that showcase our natural, creative and culinary strengths.

event planning journey

The draft Strategy guides the sustainable growth, development and delivery of events that are the right fit for the region and uniquely Tweed. The document aims to balance visitation growth with protection of our natural environment and way of living.

This draft Strategy is connected and aligned to national, state, regional and local strategies, as well as being informed by community members and local event organisers.

The accompanying draft Events Sponsorship Policy aligns with the vision of the draft Tweed Events Strategy and provides the framework for event support, detailing how events will be assessed, who is eligible for support and the conditions for receiving funding.

Community members are encouraged to review the draft Events Strategy 2024 - 2028 and draft Event Sponsorship Policy and provide feedback before 4 pm on Wednesday 31 July 2024.

For more information and to view the drafts, visit yoursaytweed.com.au/event strategy

Last week we each used 178 L a day

NAIDOC WEEK PROGRAM

Wednesday 10 July – Health and Sports Expo 10am – 3 pm, Arkinstall Park

Thursday 11 July – July Saltwater Day 10 am – 2 pm

Community barbecue and gathering Fingal Head Beach

Canowindra Elders Lunch 12 – 2pm South Tweed Sports Club

Friday 12 July – Tweed NAIDOC March and Corroboree in the park

10 am – 12.30 pm – Meet at Tweed Heads Civic Centre, cnr Brett and Wharf streets. Finish at Jack Evans Boat Harbour

NAIDOC Dinner Dance 6 pm – late Club Tweed – Tweed Heads Bowls Club (limited numbers)

For information, please contact Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council (TBLALC) via email admin@tblalc.com

In brief ...

What are you up to these school holidays?

Council's suite of facilities provide plenty of options for families during the school holidaysand all for little or no cost!

Visit the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre to take part in some free fun and engaging activities including ART PLAY, ART MAKER and Gallery Playdates for small visitors.

Or explore the world of Time Travellers and be enlightened by Lantern Land while listening to history light up in front of your eyes at the Tweed Regional Museum’s Mini Murwillumbah display – part of the mysterious Omnia - All and Everything exhibition.

For those who prefer the outdoors, explore the Northern Rivers Rail Trail or jump into action at Uki Mountain Bike Park.

And for those brave enough to dip their toes in the water, there’s always Council’s pools at the 3 Tweed Regional Aquatic Centres, where a small entry fee applies.

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.

Wait staff showing customers through the kitchen garden at renowned Carool-based restaurant, Potager. Savour the Tweed is a 5-day event that will highlight the Tweed’s culinary excellence.

Sporting events are included in the draft Tweed Events Strategy 2024-25.

The Mini Murwillumbah display at Tweed Regional Museum.

ePayment and Property Services outage

Council’s ePayment and Property Services portal will be unavailable from 4 pm on 11 to 15 July. Online eProperty Section 603 certificates won't be issued until 2024–25 rate levies have been calculated on 15 July. Levy information will be available after this. Application lodgements will resume after 19 July.

Development application determinations

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

Application details

Approved

DA24/0141 - Use of front retaining wall and proposed 1.8m front fence

Lot 1 SP 36616, Unit 1/No. 52 Ash Drive, Banora Point

DA24/0087 - Carport forward of the building line and a 1.8 m return fence

Lot 168 DP 217678, No. 24 Kurrajong Avenue, Bogangar

DA24/0138 - Carport within the front building line and inground swimming pool

Lot 228 DP 840595, No. 10 Grass Tree Circuit , Bogangar DA24/0035 - Demolition of existing dwelling, new dwelling, new shed with amenities and new swimming pool

Lot 1 DP 359521, No. 104 Wooyung Road , Crabbes Creek DA24/0187 - Dwelling with attached garage and inground swimming pool

Lot 21 DP 1295758, No. 52 Bowen Loop, Cudgen

DA24/0165 - Inground swimming pool

Lot 1 DP 1287930, No. 259 Campbells Road , Dungay DA24/0126 - Farm building and swimming pool

Lot 16 DP 343216, No. 163 Farrants Road, Farrants Hill

DA23/0518 - Demolition of existing dwelling and new two storey dwelling with attached garage, swimming pool and 1.8 m front fence

Lot 2 DP 23687, No. 17 Seaview Street , Kingscliff

DA23/0452 - Carport forward of the building line including 1.8m front boundary fence

Lot 1 SP 72375, Unit 1/No. 23 Victoria Avenue, Pottsville

DA24/0104 - In-ground swimming pool, retaining and 1.8 m high front fence

Lot 415 DP 1052083, No. 17 Euodia Avenue, Pottsville

DA24/0179 - Shed

Lot 186 DP 806528, No. 86 Overall Drive, Pottsville

DA24/0208 - Swimming pool

Lot 503 DP 1068516, No. 13 Brushtail Court, Pottsville

DA24/0022 - Two storey dwelling with attached garage, earthworks, in-ground pool

Lot 12 DP 1243926, No. 23 Winchelsea Way, Terranora

DA23/0604 - Demolition of existing dwelling, new dwelling, swimming pool, associated decking and tree removal

Lot 2 Section 7 DP 27263, No. 5 Stanley Street , Tweed Heads

DA24/0143 - Dwelling addition - patios

Lot 130 DP 246488, No. 72 Companion Way, Tweed Heads

DA22/0823 - Change of use of Unit 1 to shop and animal boarding or training establishment including dog grooming and ancillary dog day care

Lot 2 DP 596126, No. 17 Machinery Drive, Tweed Heads South DA24/0029 - 6 lot strata subdivision

DA24/0112 - Outbuilding (shed)

Lot 7 DP 862572, No. 77 Tyalgum Ridge Road, Tyalgum

Approved - deferred commencement

DA23/0209 - Concept Development Application under Section 4.22 of the EP&A Act 1979 for the staged redevelopment of the Tweed Mall – concept plan only (NRPP) Lot 1 DP 866236, Lot 3 DP 561138, Lot 3 DP 520173, Lot 672 DP 755740, Lot 1 DP 245697, Lot 2 DP 561138, Lot 1 DP 820693, No. 16-32 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads

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

Current vacancies

Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/job-vacancies to view current vacancies. Subscribe to receive Job Vacancy Alerts via email at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe

WATER WEEK 1 Check when your water meter is read at tweed.nsw.gov.au/meter-reading

Funding opportunities for sustainable farming initiatives

Are you a local farmer with ideas to improve the health of your farm?

Farmers in the Tweed are invited to apply for up to $4,000 in funding as part of Council’s Sustainable Agriculture Small Grants Program.

Now in its seventh year, the program supports farmers to implement environmentally friendly farming practices and foster innovation in agricultural techniques.

Council’s Program Leader – Sustainable Agriculture Eli Szandala said these grants were one way Council can support farmers in their efforts to improve soil, waterway and natural area management.

“Given agriculture's significant role in land use and its pivotal contribution to the region's economy, offering technical and financial support to farmers for projects focusing on sustainable agricultural practices is crucial,” Mr Szandala said.

“These practices are critical as we all strive to conserve our unique environment, respond to climate change and enhance the natural resources on farms which are essential for their long-term viability.

“Last year we were pleasantly surprised by the number of innovative projects put forward by our farming community and we hope to see farmers who want to be more sustainable but might need some support, to apply this year.”

Funding will be awarded to projects that demonstrate innovation, efficiency and environmental best practice across various aspects of agricultural

production. Projects which improve the health of soils, water quality and biodiversity on farms are prioritised for support.

The Sustainable Agriculture Small Grants Program highlights Council’s commitment to working with the community to reduce our impact on the natural environment and adapt to climate change for a sustainable future.

Applications are open until 30 August for projects in the 2024-25 financial year.

To find out more, contact the Program Leader –Sustainable Agriculture on 02 6670 2400 or visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/agriculture

Grants of up to $4,000 are available for activities that trial or lead to the adoption of improved farming practices.

Busting the myths of affordable and social housing

Council is seeking community feedback on its Draft Affordable Housing Strategy – a plan which aims to tackle the significant shortage of social and affordable housing in the Tweed. Affordable housing is a critical issue for the Tweed community but is often surrounded by misconceptions. Some of the most common myths about affordable housing include:

Myth 1: Affordable housing only benefits people who are unemployed

Affordable housing supports a diverse group of people, including essential workers such as teachers, nurses, emergency services, as well as those who work in tourism, retail and hospitality industries. Despite having steady employment, these individuals still struggle with high housing costs. Currently, 47% of all rental households are experiencing rental stress in the Tweed, representing a significant portion of our community.

Myth 2: Affordable housing lowers property values

Many studies have shown well-managed affordable

Have your say on council plans to support local events

Council is asking for community feedback on the draft Tweed Events Strategy 2024 - 2028 and draft Events Sponsorship Policy, which aim to attract and support events that showcase and celebrate the Tweed’s natural beauty, lifestyle and culture. Have your say

Share your thoughts by making a submission before 4 pm Wednesday 31 July 2024 in one of the following ways:

• online at yoursaytweed.com.au/eventsstrategy

• email to events@tweed.nsw.gov.au with the subject: Draft Events Strategy

housing has no negative impact on surrounding property values or the quality of life for existing residents. In many cases, well designed social and affordable housing adds to the amenity and character of the community by improving the quality of building design and landscaping. A mix of different housing types supports a more diverse community, enabling older people, families and younger people the opportunity to live within our neighbourhoods.

Myth 3: Social and affordable housing is poorly maintained

Affordable housing developments are subject to strict building and maintenance standards with many managed by local community housing providers. Residences are designed to be attractive, sustainable and well-integrated into the community. In most cases you would not know the difference in terms of design between social, affordable housing and other housing. Find out more and share your ideas on the draft Affordable Housing Strategy before 4 pm on 7 August at yoursaytweed.com.au/affordablehousing

• mail to the General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816, Murwillumbah, NSW 2484

• drop your submission off in person to the Tweed or Murwillumbah Council offices

All submissions, including postal or in person, must be received before 4 pm, 31 July and must include your full name, address and contact details. Please indicate if you do not give permission for it to be included in the final report to Council.

For more information and to view the draft strategy and policy, visit www.yoursaytweed.com.au/eventsstrategy

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

Stand for your community

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

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

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

Crime meeting update

By Jo Kennett

POTTSVILLE RESIDENTS concerned over crime and electric bikes and scooters attended a second meeting at the Pottsville Beach Community Hall on Monday, July 8, to discuss their concerns with senior police officers.

Tweed-Byron Police District Commander Superintendent Dave Roptell and Inspector Matt Woods were joined by state Member for Tweed, Geoff Provest, Mayor Chris Cherry and Councillor James Owen.

The meeting was organised by the Pottsville Community Association to address ongoing crime and safety concerns, with president Wendy Pluckrose saying they had 85 residents in attendance.

“Congratulations to Pottsville Community Association, Tweed police and Geoff Provest MP for holding the community policing meeting tonight in Pottsville,” Mayor Chris Cherry said

in an online post.

“We heard that since the beginning of the year there have been 28 reported police incidents in the Pottsville area. Five were stealing offences, five were scooter offences.

“The message was loud and clear to report any incidents to the police.

“Let’s work together to keep our community safe.”

Pottsville Community Association president Wendy Pluckrose said it was a “very positive meeting.”

“Pottsville is a low crime rate area,” Wendy said.

“Residents were encouraged by Insp Woods once again to report all incidents.

“Police said that a blitz will be organised in the coming weeks.

“These meetings will be planned every three months with the support of Tweed police and Geoff Provest.

Nominations open on 5 August and close 14 August 2024.

Local government elections are on 14 September 2024.

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

olg.nsw.gov.au

District Inspector Matt Woods, Wendy Pluckrose, Mayor Chris Cherry, Geoff Provest MP and Superintendent Dave Roptell

Volunteers needed to support Nullum House

By Jonathon Howard

Continued from page 3.

Ms Hunt said she has an ambitious goal to end homelessness in Murwillumbah.

“With the right government and community support this is an achievable goal,” she said. “I believe we can make Murwillumbah the first zero homelessness township in the state, and I believe that’s an achievable goal.”

The Tweed Shire has recently been listed as the state’s third highest rate of people sleeping rough, just behind Byron Shire and Sydney. Nullum House currently offers a free breakfast and lunch three days per week (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday), as well also offering other services when open from 9am to 12.30pm. Sadly, Nullum House was forced to close this week due to a lack of volunteers.

“We are only closed for one week, from July 8 to July 15, due to a lack of volunteers,” Ms Hunt said.

“We simply don’t have the volunteer pool to remain open safely.”

Tweed Palliative Support’s (TPS) second-hand stores in Murwillumbah and South Murwillumbah have changed over the years to meet the needs of Murwillumbah’s most vulnerable residents.

The second-hand store not only provides affordable second-hand clothing but is now offering free vegetarian food in partnership with the Hare Krishnas, as well as furniture and advice on support services.

TPS president Meredith Dennis said the stores, which normally only raise vital funding for TPS and Wedgetail Retreat, changed since COVID to meet the needs of the local community.

“The homeless situation is so bad in the Tweed Valley that we have regular customers who are in need of clothing and food most days,” she said.

“Thanks to the Hare Krishnas we now offer frozen meals for free from both our second-hand stores, but they fly off the shelves and are gone in about an hour.

“Edna Gorton, our Queen Street manager, said she’s seeing a large number of people in need this winter, especially families crying out for warm clothing, food and furniture.”

Ms Dennis said the op shop at Queen Street has been running for the past 15 years and has never seen the need so high.

“We’re definitely seeing an increase in the need

and our op shops are helping fill some of this need, but we do refer people to the Murwillumbah Community Centre in Knox Park,” she said.

“You can also still visit Salvos for help and Vinnies, and get food vouchers as well as support for mental health issues from Safe Haven in the Murwillumbah CBD.

“There are not enough services to help homeless people in the Tweed Valley.

“I believe it’s the responsibility of the state government to step up and offer more temporary housing and emergency support for those sleeping rough in the valley.

“There’s also a need to open a dedicated family centre for women and men to escape domestic violence.”

“I’d like to also acknowledge James Frizelle Charitable Foundation and Dharmacare for providing vital grants this year to cover food and warm clothing for our people.”

Mayor Chris Cherry said raised this very issue with the Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health Emma McBride in Canberra on Friday last week.

“I spoke to her about how much the current MM1 or Modified Monash 1 rating for Murwillumbah, which has basically categorized Murwillumbah as a metropolitan area, is not consistent with the level of social and economic disadvantage we have here and is negatively impacting strongly on our community whereby we no longer have medical practices that bulk bill and our students no longer receive any special consideration for being in a Regional area,” she said.

“I have been working with our local state member Janelle Saffin to try to get the government to urgently address this issue.

“In this cost-of-living crisis, reports like (4 Voices) this need to be taken very seriously by our state and federal governments.

“I also raised the need to urgently reinstate funding for mental health and suicide prevention support services as many of these were tied to flood recovery and some terminated at the end of the financial year last week.

“Unfortunately our recovery is ongoing and we need that funding to be as well.

“Reports like the 4 Voices one and the Rental Pain Index report also just released, show that our area is struggling and needs urgent help to address these issues.”

If you would like to aid those in need at Nullum House, please contact the Murwillumbah Community Centre via phone on: (02) 6672 3003.

Epic women’s SES training

By Jo Kennett

LOCAL WOMEN are invited to join the NSW State Emergency Services (SES) Tweed Coast Unit for a practical workshop on Saturday, July 27, so they are better equipped to deal with emergencies.

Emergency Preparedness in Community (EPiC) is a practical skill-based workshop designed to provide women with a diverse range of skills to help prepare their home and family for impacts from natural hazards.

The aim of the workshop, according to NSW SES Deputy Local Commander Tweed Byron Cluster, Jennifer Townend, is to demonstrate and provide opportunities to practise skills in a safe and inclusive environment with trained volunteers.

“Our skilled SES ladies will show you how to sandbag for water diversion, teach you tarping for window repairs, and ladder safety,” she said.

“You will also be taught how to clean gutters (essential in bushfire season), how to use a fire extinguisher, and about apps and warnings and where to get the latest information.

“We will also be looking at home emergency plans and kits.

“You are invited to participate in any or all of the activities.

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Lounge Mahogany Chaise Lounge Wash Stands

Cedar Desk Brass Bed Antique Swing Cot Pine

Hutch Complete 4 Post Bed Billiard Table Poker

Table Old Poker Machine (not working) Marlboro

Poker Cards (in plastic) Commercial Crown Wood

Stove Doors & Windows Clawfoot Bath Copper

Tubs Porcelain Sinks Tiles Tools Bottles Tins

Fuel Cans Baskets Cane Furniture Mickey Mouse

Memorabilia Toys Dolls Dolls house Linen

Crockery Taxidermy including Eagle Zebra Hide

Fordson Dexter Tractor America’s Cup Coke Bottle Plus Many More Rare & Unusual Items For further information - Chris Hayward 0416 005 700 Photos & Full List on website: www.gnfrealestate.com.au

“We look forward to you joining us for a fun, interactive and informative day.”

The workshop is on Saturday, July 27, at SES Tweed Coast Unit, 6 Centennial Drive, Pottsville.

It starts at 9.30 am for a 10am start and will finish around 4pm.

Anyone interested is asked to register by July 22 with all queries to Jen Townend on 0409 092 422. Catering is provided and Jen suggests you encourage your friends and family to register.

To register scan the QR code below or online via: forms.office.com/r/4De3YysWHK

Join Deputy Local Commander Jen Townsend for the EPiC women's workshop at SES Tweed Coast

New life for Crabbes Creek Community Hall

By Jo Kennett

THE CRABBES Creek community were thrilled to find out they had received more than half a million dollars in funding from Tweed Shire Council to upgrade their beloved hall, and council is now seeking community feedback on a draft plan.

The $538,560 upgrade is part of a $15.5 million funding package from the federal and NSW governments aimed at restoring and enhancing community assets impacted by storms or floods.

After suffering flood damage in 2022, the hall will undergo renovations with flood-resistant materials and design elements to be used to minimise the impact of future flood events.

Crabbes Creek Community Hall president Reg Robinson said it was “very exciting news.”

“The whole community is very happy about it,” he said.

“Crabbes Creek Community Hall is the social meeting point for the community; it’s where old and new people catch up and have a good time and forget about day-to-day life.

“We’d like to thank council and council’s maintenance officer community assets Paul Mitchell for all their hard work in putting in for the grant and getting it all happening. We really appreciate it.”

Mayor Chris Cherry said the Crabbes Creek Community Hall “is an incredibly well-loved focal point of the Crabbes community.”

“I celebrated my mother’s 80th birthday there earlier this year with around 100 people and it was such a

special way to do it,” Cr Cherry said.

“Having these changes which improve flood resilience and make the hall usable for all abilities is a great step forward.

“Including a public toilet for all the users of the rail trail is also a big plus, so it is also a win for the wider community.”

Proposed works include refurbishment of the exterior and interior, building an accessible parking space and a unisex accessible public toilet available for public use.

There will be a unisex accessible toilet as well as one female and one male ambulant toilet designated for use exclusively by the hall with con-

necting pathways.

A new bike rack will come in handy for rail trail riders using the toilet. There will be new water tanks, the relocation of the existing sewer system and a new awning, to be delivered as stage two pending community input. Council’s manager inclusive and creative communities, Shannon Carruth, said the upgrade would ensure the hall is “a safer, more inviting and inclusive space for residents and visitors.”

“To ensure the hall can welcome all members of the community regardless of their ability, the refurbishment will incorporate features such as accessible toilet amenities, accessible

car park and safe, linking pathways,” she said.

“The addition of an accessible public toilet will also offer essential amenities for visitors and users of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.

“After the upgrade, the hall will be equipped to function as a more secure and welcoming venue for gatherings, events and activities that bring our community together for years to come.”

Mr Robinson said the hall has needed a lot of repairs and “things like a new toilet, a new solar system and painting and boards replacing.”

“The hall is full of asbestos and that will all be removed, so that will be the

biggest cost,” he said.

“We have been wanting to do it for a long, long time, so it’s really, really good for the community.”

Mr Robinson said a new, bigger awning would be welcome as most of the functions are held outside.

“We are one of the busiest halls in Tweed Shire,” he said.

“We do food nights most weeks and hire the hall for weddings. We had a curry night and everyone brought curries in and we had the fire going and had a fantastic night.

“We have bocce and golf days, a village versus valley cricket day, a Pathways to the Sun festival, and we recently had our annual camp oven cook-off which was fantastic.

“Our biggest function is the New Year’s Eve party. Our Film Society is up and running again so we have films on.

“Having those events at the local hall is great and it really builds a sense of community.”

The work will go to tender and is expected to start later this year and take around three months.

Community members are invited to learn more and discuss the upgrades with council staff at the Crabbes Creek Community Hall on Thursday, July 25, from 4.30pm to 6pm.

The Film Society presents The Big Lebowski at the hall this Sunday, July 13, with hot food from 4pm and the movie starting at 5pm.

Pathways of the Sun is on at the hall on Saturday, July 20, with workshops, market stalls and holistic treatments and food stalls.

Crabbes Creek Community Hall is set to undergo major renovations.

JOIN OUR TEAM!

Operational and Non Operational volunteer roles available with training and opportunities to expand your skills

Tweed District Rescue Squad is the Primary Rescue resource for the entire Tweed Shire.

Responsibilities include Road Crash Rescue

Industrial and Domestic Rescue Land Search Rescue

Vertical Rescue

Domestic Animal Rescue

Tweed District Rescue Squad is holding an information and come and try night on Wednesday 31st of July. Contact tweeddistrict.secretary@ vrarescue.org or (02) 6674 4875 to register your place

COME AND TRY NIGHT WED 31 JULY

By Jonathon Howard

GRAFFITI TAGGERS are running amok around the Murwillumbah CBD, especially targeting Proudfoots Lane, with local business owners calling for action to curb the costly vandalism.

Tagging is not a new thing in the Tweed Shire, after it came to prominence in the late 1960s and ‘70s in Philadelphia, USA.

Perhaps due to its simplicity, tagging is more likely to be considered vandalism than other more elaborate graffiti or street art styles.

Dinki Di Discounts owner Robyn Nassif recently had a bad experience with taggers in Proudfoots Lane who were caught in the act on security cameras.

The incident is under investigation by Tweed police, but Robyn is keen to be proactive and develop ideas with fellow business owners to clean up the CBD.

The Weekly walked through the lane with Robyn and found the tagging has dramatically increased over the past 12 months.

“On Saturday, we had a couple of lads volunteer to clean our back dock and paint over the God-awful tags that had shown up all over our walls,” Robyn said.

“Another local lad had volunteered to paint

Stop the vandalism

a mural over the freshly painted area and was excited to do so.”

Robyn said the local boys worked hard for about four hours to clean the dock to a high standard.

“Then on Sunday, July 7, afternoon, at 1.35pm, in broad daylight (main image above), another group of young men arrived and promptly tagged the freshly painted area,” she said.

Robyn said the tags have appeared all over town and are now “costing businesses an absolute fortune to remove and look a terrible sight”.

“They make our town look dodgy and they discourage people from wanting to be here, which is bad for business and employment,” she said.

Robyn has already reported the latest incident to Tweed police, but she’s keen to develop a working bee, or somehow bring business owners together to curb the tagging.

“I think police and Tweed Shire Council and the state government should all be helping to clean up Murwillumbah’s CBD and to help discourage the tagging,” she said.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Do you have any ideas to reduce tagging across the Tweed Shire? The Weekly would love to hear your thoughts and letters via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

Fight over NDIS reforms

By Jonathon Howard

A POLITICAL storm is raging over the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) between the federal Labor Government, who are attempting to clean up the scheme through long overdue reforms, and The Greens who have labelled Labor’s bill as “punching down”.

Greens candidate for Richmond Mandy Nolan has bowed into the debate and said she was shocked to learn of an alliance between Labor and One Nation (see image below) on the NDIS reform bill proposed last month, which she said: “betrays disabled people in our region and across the country”.

“This partnership is particularly alarming given One Nation’s history of mocking and misrepresenting the NDIS and its participants,”

Mandy told The Weekly.

“I’m sick and tired of seeing politicians punching down on NDIS participants.

“So many disabled people and older people in our community rely on the NDIS to get the care they need.

“It isn’t perfect, but if Labor thinks they can fix the NDIS with a $14 billion funding cut, then they are delusional, and dangerously out of touch with the Richmond electorate.”

Mandy called on Labor Member for Richmond Justine Elliot to explain why her party is pushing for these reforms and aligning with a party that has “shown such insensitivity and disrespect towards disabled people”.

Justine hit back at the criticism and stressed that the NDIS reforms were designed to safeguard the scheme and clean up years of neglect by the former coalition government.

“After the Greens’ destructive actions in the Federal Parliament, we now see self-described ‘extreme Green’ political candidate Mandy Nolan trying to cover up the Greens’ costly delays to vital reforms of the NDIS,” Justine told The Weekly.

“Let’s talk facts, the Labor government put forward legislation to safeguard the future sustainability of the NDIS and get the scheme back on track.

“The extreme Greens political party voted with Liberals and Nationals to delay the legislation.

“The Greens supported an amendment from the Liberals and Nationals for a two-month delay, sending the Labor government’s bill to a Senate committee for more consultation.

“Destructive actions like this by the Greens and the Liberals and Nationals has an impact on real people.

“This Liberal-National-Green alliance will have a $1.1 billion financial cost to the scheme.

“This is the equivalent of giving 60,000 kids on the scheme their average NDIS package.”

“After that decade of neglect under the Liberal and National governments, we can now pave the way for a more equitable, accessible and empowering NDIS, one that truly embodies the principles of dignity, choice and autonomy, because that is at the heart of it,” she said.

Justine said she wanted to stress that those living with a disability and their families can trust the Albanese Labor government to continue to protect the scheme and get it back on track.

“Our government is committed to improving outcomes for participants and ensuring that every dollar of funding goes to those who need it most,” she said.

Welcome to Divine Crystal Universe –Crystal, Jewellery & Psychic Event. Our first Gold large Coast event to be held over one magical weekend with the intention to finally place the Gold Coast on the map when it comes to an event for the body, mind and soul.

Featuring 40 incredible exhibitors all under one roof, our event caters to every taste and budget, from those just beginning their crystal journey to experienced collectors. Those looking for a glimpse into the realms of mystics

What to expect to see over this magical weekend and certainly not limited to –

• Crystals of course

and

from

Minister for the NDIS Bill Shorten

SHOP & SAVE

Trixie’s tick warning

By Jo Kennett

I went up and they asked if I wanted them to keep her going.

Murwillumbah

A CUDGEN resident is warning locals to get tick treatment for their pets, after her beloved miniature fox terrier died from a tick bite.

Cudgen farmer Jan Julius said she noticed her eight-year-old dog Trixie was “a bit off.”

“She was having trouble walking, but she has had a back operation and I wondered if she was having trouble with that,” Jan said.

“We took her to the Carrara emergency vet and the nurse found a tick.

“They said her vitals were good and she was okay.”

However, the tick, which was near the opening of Trixie’s ear and close to her throat, soon paralysed her larynx. Her condition rapidly deteriorated as she drooled uncontrollably and her lungs started filling with fluid.

“They called late on Sunday night and said she was struggling and asked if they could put her on oxygen,” Jan said.

“On Monday they called and said, ‘Please don’t take her away because if you move her she won’t last’.

“On Monday the specialist vet saw her and said they were giving her stuff to stop her drooling and that Trixie was going pretty good. Later she was standing and wagging her tail.

“At 7pm they called and said she vomited and they had to suction it out and then she had a rough night and they had to intubate her on Tuesday morning.

“The vet said she was just breaking down and

“I told her how much we all loved her and then asked them to put her to sleep.”

Jan said she blames herself for stopping the tick treatment.

“I always think the end of the tick season is around May/June and thought I’d give the dogs a break,” she said.

“I usually start the tick treatment around July.

“They usually come after a bit of rain and it hadn’t rained for weeks.”

Jan and her husband were devastated, and their other dog, who had grown up from a puppy with Trixie, has been lost without her little buddy.

“She was my baby,” Jan said.

“She was always there and she loved the kids coming. She’d get so excited; she’d just lay on them and look up at them. She loved everybody.

“I can’t bring Trixie back but there might be people thinking it’s too early for tick treatment, waiting to hear that something’s going around, but no one needs to deal with that heartache.”

The Weekly spoke to Murwillumbah Veterinary Clinic nurse Tiffany Swift, who said paralysis ticks common in the Tweed are at their peak from August to November.

“Most people think ticks are common only in summer, but that’s not the case,” she said.

“The survival rate for all animals is a 50/50 chance — that’s why prevention is the best option.”

Trixie sadly succumbed to a tick bite

Tweed Safe Places

By Jonathon Howard

THE FEDERAL Government is set to deliver more emergency accommodation in the Tweed Shire for

and children experiencing domestic violence.

Member For Richmond and Assistant Minister For Social Services and the Prevention of Family Violence, Justine Elliot, said a total of 26 ‘Safe Places’ will be built in the Tweed under the emergency accommodation project.

The announcement is a major boost for the safety of Tweed women, following the 2017 closure of the women’s refuge near Knox Park under the previous coalition government.

The Safe Places Emergency Accommodation Program provides a capital investment to fund the building, renovation or purchase of emergency accommodation to support women and children in circumstances where staying safely at home is not possible.

“We know that family and domestic violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness and housing uncertainty for women and children

across Australia,” Ms Elliot told The Weekly.

“Having a safe place to go and receive support is vital for women and children leaving family and domestic violence, including here in Tweed.

“Once construction is complete, the 26 Tweed Safe Places will assist more than 100 women and children each year.

“The successful completion of a Safe Places project in Tweed will provide women and children experiencing family and domestic violence access to necessary expert support whilst also offering much-needed comfort and refuge from unsafe situations.”

More details regarding the Safe Places and the provider will be released in the coming weeks.

For more information on the Safe Places Emergency Accommodation Program visit the Department of Social Services website.

If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, chat online via www.1800RESPECT. org.au, or text 0458 737 732.

Free smoke alarms

A NEW batch of smoke alarms will be distributed to Fire & Rescue NSW stations across the state, allowing firefighters to carry out Home Fire Safety Visits.

alarms to protect themselves and their loved ones from fire.

Tweed Shire residents are among those eligible for a free check and fire alarm installation by fire crews who can inspect your property, provide safety advice and fit an alarm, free of charge, where required.

There is a limit of 5,000 new smoke alarms ready for installation in homes across the state this winter.

In just over a month, five people have been killed in residential fires in New South Wales.

The importance of smoke alarms was also reflected in late May when two alarms, installed in a house at Macquarie Fields by a visiting FRNSW crew, sounded during a fire at the home days later, saving a mother and her nine children from potential tragedy.

FRNSW is encouraging residents to ensure their homes are fitted with working smoke

You can book via online: fire.nsw.gov.au/visits

“The staff have become like family to my Mum and this means the world to us. We love them too.”

dad safe, protected and happy.”

– Joanne Smith, Maggie’s daughter.

We believe that everyone deserves to live the happiest life they can. So by providing the right care, the very best

We believe that everyone deserves to live the happiest life they can. So by providing the right care, the very best

We understand that the decision to join our community is a level of care and compassion our residents enjoy, you’ll want to call McKenzie home.

We understand that the decision to join our community is a level of care and compassion our residents enjoy, you’ll want to call McKenzie home.

Our Victorian Residences:

Our Local Residences:

Lynbrook Park

42 Olive Road, Lynbrook

Heritage Lodge | Murwillumbah 194 Byangum Road

The Ashley 17-21 Ashley Street, Reservoir

Ra es | Tweed Heads South Peregrine Drive, O 2 Falcon Way

Rosebrook 441 Waterfall Gully Road, Rosebud

Newmans on the Park 33 Newmans Road, Templestowe

– Kerry , daughter of a McKenzie resident 1300 899 222

Charlesbrook 1 Innisfallen Avenue, Templestowe Sut ton Park

Seniors

Eldership PRIDE

with Heather McClelland

“The spirit never ages. It stays forever young.”

All about attitude

As Arthur and I sit at a beautiful handmade camphor table surrounded by other furniture he has made, I hear his recipe for readers of The Weekly: “Do a bit of good in your life and don’t do any harm.”

Arthur’s slim upright figure at almost 87 years is well-known at Murwillumbah Golf Club, his handicap hovering around 15. But Arthur also carries memories of war worth sharing with readers of The Weekly!

“We’d moved to Wales to escape bombs that fell constantly because of the Royal Navy Dockyard at Davenport nearby,” he said.

“Only a week after we got there, a stray German bomb destroyed a family living five doors away. Nowhere was safe. With wartime shortages, my desperate mother saw children fading away and so overfed me not realising this might also be problematic. I became grossly overweight and the butt of schoolyard bullying. As a result I don’t like people taking the mickey out of others.

“By sixteen I’d also realised I couldn’t have everything I wanted. I took charge of my eating. Sport was my sav -

ing grace. I loved to be fit and active. I adored cricket and soccer at school and at 46 took up golf.

“Through my teens I’d enjoyed going dancing. I met Sheila in my early twenties and she put me at ease as we danced the quick-step. She helped me gain the confidence I needed as we did life together.”

Arthur was proud of his wife’s lifelong vocation in nursing and midwifery and together they cared for their two boys, migrated as ten pound poms, made lifelong friends, moved states for better hous ing, lived in caravans and progressed until, at retirement, Arthur built a home on acreage with peace-filled views and bespoke hand made furniture.

Gaining a reputa tion as a

very enthusiastic worker, when asked by workmates how he always turned up with a smile on his face, out came the words: “It’s an attitude of mind!” He loved challenges except when his company went bust,

“I was miserable…useless! Finally I wrote to every electrical shop in Brisbane. What a relief when months later one of those letters got me a good job.”

Sheila’s cancer diagnosis and aftermath of helpless blindness was terrible. Arthur cared for her at home until the last. He’s honest: “I slammed into the wall and had to suck it up for a couple of years. After a 57 year marriage I can’t imagine being with anyone else. I was reluctant to give up our dream home but eventually downsized. Now it’s a solitary existence. I can handle it, but I don’t enjoy it. You can see why golf, friends and family are so important

LAILAH GIFTY AKITA

Save our auxiliary

ONE OF the Tweed Shire’s longest running auxiliary groups is at risk of closing and is making a desperate appeal for volunteers. Murwillumbah Hospital Auxiliary first started in 1926 and has been going strong for 98 years raising funds for vital medical equipment.

The auxiliary’s treasurer, Jude Ahern, said if the service was to close, it would risk the loss of funding for hospital equipment.

“This last financial year, $32,000 worth was donated, including a bladder scanner and two endoscopy stretchers,” Jude said.

“We certainly don’t want to close, but recently have had to cut back our hours selling raffles/craft due to a shortage of hands.

“Whatever we can get, even two or three would help a lot. At the moment we have 18 members, of whom only 10 are available and able to do the work, and only at times suitable to them.

“We very much appreciate your help.”

Jude said the group’s volunteers have been gradually diminishing through age and illness, and they are encouraging locals to join the group.

To find out more and get involved please phone: 0417 750 228.

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Take the internet survey

By Jonathon Howard

FOR THE many residents who struggle with terrible internet, this is your chance to voice your concerns before a consultation period ends on July 31.

The Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee, chaired by Alannah MacTiernan, is seeking input from residents to understand the experiences and needs of these communities.

The Tweed has long suffered from poor internet connectivity, an issue The Weekly has frequently reported.

The review, conducted every three years, aims to gather firsthand accounts and feedback on the effectiveness and suitability of current telecommunications services.

Previous reviews have led to significant policy initiatives such as the Mobile Black Spot Program and the National Audit of Mobile Coverage, both resulting from community feedback.

The committee encourages participation through submissions or a short survey, with the gathered input playing a critical role in shaping the committee’s recommendations to the government.

Ms MacTiernan emphasised the importance of community involvement.

“This opportunity comes around only once every three years and the strength of each committee’s recommendations back to government — and the actions they take — are underpinned by the views of people living in regional, rural, and remote communities,” she said.

The review will cover several key areas, including the potential of emerging technologies to enhance telecommunications, the effectiveness

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of existing government initiatives, the modernisation of universal service arrangements, and the improvement of telecommunications during natural disasters. Additionally, the committee will assess how well the needs of First Nations communities are being met.

The committee, established by Federal Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland, includes members Ian Kelly, Kristy Sparrow, Fiona Nash and Dr Jessa Rogers.

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VIEW Club helping kids

By Jo Kennett

THERE ARE more than 300 VIEW Club members in the Tweed area who raise money to support the education of 43 Smith Family Learning for Life students while making lifelong friendships.

“V IEW is the largest community sponsor of the Smith Family Learning for Life program,” Twin Towns Day VIEW (Voice, Interests and Education of Women) Club president Kathie Diskin said.

“Our objective is to bring together women who have a common inter est in the family and community, and foster friendship and support amongst the members.

“The main effect is the friendship and support of each other and Learning for Life is the beau tiful side product.

“It’s a win-win; you make friends and raise money for the education of Aus tralian children.”

Joan Wratten joined the Twin Towns Day VIEW Club after moving up from Tasmania.

“I accidentally ran into my childhood best friend in a hair salon,” Joan said.

“She had joined VIEW, so I went along because I could see my best friend and make new friends.

“We have monthly meet ings followed by lunch to gether.

VIEW ladies are interested in world events and very knowledgeable about the world, so there is always a lot of interesting chatter and guest speakers.”

Recently, Joan’s daughter Fiona, a nursing student, spoke at VIEW about her trip to India with Southern Cross University where they visited a big hospital, aged and childcare facilities, and got an overview of the whole health system.

“She came back with a different view of the world and our problems which seem so inconsequential, so that was interesting to hear about,”

women are very interested in the education of the children they sponsor and love hearing feedback about how they are doing.

“We get great letters from them about how they are going at school and we love to hear them say that they are going to uni.

“We really feel like we’ve made a difference.”

Twin Towns Day IEW Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at South Tweed Sports Club. Contact Kathie for information on 0407 709629

Joan and Fiona Wratten

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Catch up with Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin

Be fire safe, use smoke alarms

AS WE move into the colder months, Fire and Rescue NSW has launched its winter safety campaign, with important messages about what you can do to be fire safe and save lives.

Last winter, nearly half of the 1080 homes that were impacted by fire in NSW did not have a working smoke alarm. This figure is far too high, especially considering approximately 20 people a year die in house fires in NSW that could have been prevented. Hundreds more people survive a fire but suffer life-changing health consequences.

In NSW, it’s a legal requirement to have working smoke alarms on every level of your home. You are twice as likely to die in a home fire if you don’t have a working smoke alarm.

Fire and Rescue NSW is urging the community to check they have a smoke alarm, test that it is working and if it isn’t, contact them for a free safety visit: https:// fire.nsw.gov.au/safetyvisits

When a fire takes hold, every second counts. In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can turn into a major fire, that’s why having a fire escape plan is crucial for every household. Without a plan, lives are at risk.

I encourage you to visit the Fire and Rescue NSW website, download the template and draw up your escape plan. It’s recommended that residents practice their escape plan at least twice a year to ensure everyone knows what to do. Remember, in case of fire: stay low, get

out, and stay out! Ensure windows and doors have quick-release devices. Protect your loved ones by planning and practicing your escape plan.

Download your plan today via: https:// fire.nsw.gov.au/befiresafe

Budget boosts housing, incentivises bulk billing

T he NSW Budget, handed down on June 18, was a responsible one which importantly addressed the historic neglect of social housing supply and frontline health worker accommodation, and which incentivised GP clinics to bulk bill more than 70 per cent of patients.

Lismore has been identified as a possible future location for some of the 120 new health worker dwellings, which may include building new accommodation, refurbishment of existing living quarters and possible purchase of suitable properties such as motels.

In opposition, I successfully lobbied to keep the former Laurel Lodge in Lismore in public ownership, and had it repurposed as social housing units, so in government, I’ll strongly advocate for our fair share of this Budget’s record investment in new housing, including public housing. If GP clinics across our electorate take up the government’s new Bulk Billing Support Initiative (once legislated) it will help keep them viable, help reduce cost-of-living pressures on patients and take the pressure off hospital emergency departments.

Good news for service workers

The Minns Labor Government has delivered an historic reform for community service workers, more than 75 per cent of whom are women, ensuring they get access to portable long service leave.

This will improve the lives of hard-working staff in domestic and family violence support, homelessness services, community housing and other community services. Under the current system, community sector workers can only gain long service leave after 10 years working for a specific employer.

They will now get long service leave based on their time in the sector rather than time employed by a single employer.

This reform will ensure these workers receive six weeks paid leave after seven years of employment in the sector, no matter how many times they change contracts.

Part-time employees will have access to the entitlement after the equivalent time, on a pro-rata basis.

Food

By Jonathon Howard

FOOD SECURITY is high on the agenda for Plan C, a leading organisation dedicated to enhancing community resilience, who will host an upcoming event ‘Rising Together: Food Security’ on Saturday, July 20, at the Murwillumbah Community Centre.

The event aims to address critical issues surrounding food security within the region, inviting farmers, growers, community gardeners, co-ops, food swappers, sellers, soup kitchens and resilience advocates alongside consumers.

Participants will engage in networking sessions and discussions focusing on producing, growing, accessing, and storing food.

Additionally, insights from Plan C’s recent study on food security in the Northern Rivers will be shared, offering both regional perspectives and practical solutions for individuals and communities.

“What impressed me the most about our previous Rising Together Food Security Events is that even food growers and producers, who know their stuff when it comes to food, realised that they too were actually not ready for disruptions to our food systems, such as the like we experienced in the floods in 2022 when supermarket shelves were empty,” Jean Renouf, CEO of Plan C, said.

“Our event allows participants to connect with like-minded locals and also learn practical ways to ensure we are all better prepared for disruptions.”

To foster meaningful dialogue and connections, attendance for each event is limited to 25 participants, with a waitlist available in case of cancellations.

Interested individuals are encouraged to register early via the following link: planc. org.au/rising-together.

“Plan C extends a warm invitation to all community members interested in food security and resilience-building efforts to join this impactful event,” Mr Renouf said.

“Your participation and insights will play a crucial role in shaping a more resilient future for our region.”

For further information, please contact Rena Frohman, Program Director, rena@planc. org.au, 0432 156 347

OPEN EVERY DAY

Janelle Saffin MP with Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fretwell and Member for South Coast Liza Butler at the launch of the Winter Fire Safety campaign.

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atthe Footy

ones who draw small crowds against certain teams. The game in Coffs, Tamworth, Darwin and Mudgee always land massive crowds and is great to build the game in the country.

JASON RYLES lands the job at Parramatta and I think this is the best option and will be a good option.

The old coach is heading to the UK to replace an aussie coach at Leeds for the remainder of the season before heading up the good old North Sydney Bears/Perth bid for the NRL.

Ryles had a decorated playing career and has completed an extensive apprenticeship under some quality coaches and is probably what they need after dropping to 16th on the weekend.

Our Titans ground out a tough win away at Coffs Harbour in what I feel should happen at least once a year for each club, or at least the

The loss of Hynes could really hurt the Sharks although his form after being dropped from Origin has been less than convincing.

The Broncos are on a severe downhill spiral after losing five in a row and need to turn their form around real quick or will miss out on the top eight.

Although the middle part is congested the Warriors are probably in the same boat as the Broncos.

I’m enjoying seeing the Bulldogs show the old ‘Dogs of War’ steel in the last few weeks to land back to back golden point wins and they have themselves firmly entrenched in the eight and are playing with plenty of belief.

Split round ahead with the Origin decider next week and who knows once again what results we might end up with.

If you are leading your tipping comp congratulations to you as it’s tough going at the moment.

I’ve been in Coffs Harbour for the Australian Schoolboys and Schoolgirls carnival this week and the quality of young player is top shelf.

They had all sort of trouble running the 15s and 16s carnival at Port Macquarie with the weather seeing them removed from the stadium by the council and having to play games at Mackillop College, Wauchope and the final at Kempsey in what was a disappointing end considering the magnitude of the comp.

Weather has made it difficult here but the teams returned to grassroots footy at Bellingen who saved the day allowing games to be played for two days to ensure the carnival continued, it sure was a shock for some of the elite Sydney school kids to be running out at Bellingen! The ACT have been the surprise packets in the boys knocking off CIS and narrowly losing to CHS.

They have 17 players from the once elite Erindale College who are returning to the glory days of the late ‘90s.

Queensland will play CHS in one semi while CCC will take on CIS in the other. In the girls QLD and CHS have been very dominant and will face off in the grand final at the Stadium on Friday before Australian sides are named with games against France in Australia and a trip to PNG later in the year.

See you at the footy. Quinny

PACIFIC BITUMEN

STEM Maker Fair

By Jo Kennett

THE COASTAL Academy of STEM Excellence held its STEM Maker Fair at Kingscliff High School on Monday, June 24, with Mayor Chris Cherry on hand to see the students’ projects.

Coastal Academy of STEM Excellence Project Officer (Primary) Liz Edwards said it was a great night featuring a Year 5, 6, and 7 student showcase and a range of hands-on activities for all ages to engage with, plus prizes for various challenges.

“The Coastal Academy of STEM Excellence (CASE) is one of 14 STEM academies across NSW that operates under the STEM Industry School Partnerships (SISP) program,” Ms Edwards said.

“The Coastal Academy pursues STEM learning and transition opportunities for both staff and students within our public schools across the Tweed Coastal Learning Community, comprising Kingscliff High School and six local primary schools — Pottsville, Bogangar, Kingscliff, Cudgen, Fingal Head and Duranbah.

“The Maker Fair was just one of CASE’s major events this year.

“Students have been learning about the impor-

tance of circular economy practices and water sustainability for our future environments.”

The students proudly presented their STEM projects to the mayor and Elizabeth Siedl from Tweed Shire Council.

“Patrons were able to use their creative and critical thinking skills to participate in a range of design challenges including Sushi Packaging SharkTank, Purposeful Pallet designs with the Pottsville Men’s Shed and products made with Wendy Pluckrose’s repurposed chip packets,” Ms Edwards said.

“Winners received prizes donated by Bunnings South Tweed, Modern Teaching Aids and Recycled Mats.

“Hands-on activities included Tech Tables for parents to try their hand at coding, disassembling E-waste to build solar batteries with PowerWells and Griffith University, creating a sustainability-themed inspirational word plaque with laser cut letters, testing reaction times with Southern Cross University Blaze Pods and racing the H20 powered cars hosted by Horizon Education.

“The Maker Fair proved to be an excellent opportunity for families and community to engage with the great STEM learning that is happening across the Tweed Coast public schools.”

Kingscliff High School students presented their projects to Mayor Chris Cherry

Music After Dark

By Madeleine Murray

M|ARTS PRECINCT will host its monthly series of Music After Dark (M.A.D.) on Saturday, July 13. Organised in partnership with Jet Black Cat Records, this event features an impressive lineup of talented musicians.

Doors will open at 4.30pm with free admission for children under 10, making this a family-friendly event, one of the aims of the M|Arts Precinct. Where else can you see little girls in satin dresses and boys in overalls dancing wildly in the perfect space in front of the stage?!

Leading the lineup is Jack Davies, known for his slick fingerpicking and rambling tales. Having just released his debut album, Jack will be showcasing new songs, poems, and laidback stories. His unique style and storytelling skills are fascinating.

Joining Jack is JB Paterson, a roving blue-collar songwriter and producer who developed a strong interest in folk music after hearing Bob Dylan’s album The Times They Are-a-Changin’ at the age of 21. Continuously inspired by traditional folk and blues music, JB’s performance is a blend of heartfelt lyrics and classic melodies.

Adding a touch of enchantment to the night is Lake Kelly, who has been enthralled by the harp since she was young. Her serene, magical music is drawn from dreams, memory and nature.

“We are excited to be bringing a very winter-inspired musical lineup to Murwillumbah for our first collaboration with M|Arts,” Shannon Logan, founder of Jet Black Cat Records, told The Weekly. “Jack Davies from Perth, JB Paterson from bottom of Mt Tamborine, and Lake Kelly from just across the border will bring their intimate sounds to the evening. Expect a cosy one and a really wholesome evening with some of Australia’s budding story tellers.”

The collaboration between M|Arts Precinct and Jet Black Cat Records is all about supporting local and emerging artists, as well as fostering a sense of community.

As always the bar will be serving divine cocktails and Francie’s Pizzeria will be onsite from 4.30pm serving delicious pizzas all night long or until sold out.

M.A.D. begins at 4.30pm on Saturday July 13, at M|Arts Precinct, Brisbane St, Murwillumbah. For tickets and more information about this and other events, visit m-arts.com.au/events.

Lions need help

sage sizzle planned for October.

THE LIONS Club of Coolangatta & Tweed Heads has extended a “heartfelt thanks” to Bunnings South Tweed and Club Tweed for their generous support of its recent Bunnings sausage sizzle on Saturday, June 22.

The club’s president Coral Kelly wrote to The Weekly to thank the businesses and to also appeal for some new members to join in aiding the community.

“A special acknowledgment goes to the many friendly and patient patrons who purchased sausages, contributing to a successful fundraising event,” she said.

Every cent raised from the sausage sizzle is being reinvested into the community, supporting a variety of local charities and important causes.

“The funds will aid medical research into childhood and adult cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, motor neuron disease and provide support for deaf children’s school camps, among many other initiatives,” Ms Kelly said.

The Lions Club is now appealing for a few more helping hands for another Bunnings sau-

“The club is also involved in manning the gates at Bilambil Jets NRL games in June and July and will begin selling Lions Christmas Cakes and puddings at Tweed Mall in November and December on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays,” Ms Kelly said.

“In addition to these activities, the Lions Club is organizing an opening night fundraiser for the Tweed Theatre’s ‘The Swinging 60s and 70s’ musical on Friday, November 1.

“This event promises to be a night of fun and nostalgia while supporting the club’s ongoing community efforts.”

The Lions Club of Coolangatta & Tweed Heads meets at Club Tweed on the first Tuesday of each month for a general meeting and the third Tuesday for a social dinner get-together, both starting at 6pm.

The club welcomes new members who have a few spare hours each month and a desire to make a difference in the community.

For more details on how to join, please contact Peter at 0459 249 392 or Coral at 0435 892 207.

By Jonathon Howard

From left: Jack Davies is known for his slick fingerpicking and rambling tales, JB Paterson is a roving blue-collar songwriter and Lake Kelly is an enchanting harpist

Help the Cooly and Tweed Lions Club to continue making a positive impact on the community

Sublime classics with NRSO

By Madeleine Murray

THE DYNAMIC Northern Rivers Symphony Orchestra will present three classic works at the Murwillumbah Civic Centre on Sunday, July 21. Melbourne-based Mexican conductor Carlos del Cueto will lead an exciting program of works by Beethoven, Mozart and Mendelssohn.

Beethoven’s Overture to King Stephen begins with a stirring call to attention, then develops and recapitulates two different themes, both with a folksy Hungarian character. In this music we hear seeds of the Ninth Symphony, which would be written more than a decade later.

“I don’t quite understand why Beethoven’s King Stephen overture is so rarely played. I’ve actually never heard it in a live performance,” Carlos told The Weekly. “This is strange to me because it is such a concise, charming, and joyful piece, and I’d argue it is a better concert piece than many of the better-known overtures by Bee thoven.”

Carlos will also be con ducting Mendelssohn’s Symphony No 5, known as The Reformation. “This symphony was written to commemorate the 300th anni versary of the Augsburg convention, a key moment in the history of the Lutheran faith,” Carlos said.

“The whole work is a mar vellous exam ple of Men delssohn’s invention and mastery of the orchestra as an expressive medium.”

Carlos has conducted orchestras such as The Hallé, Manchester Camerata, Britten Sinfonia, and was principal conductor of the Cambridge University Symphony Orchestra. He has flourished as a conductor of orchestras, choirs and operas in Europe and Australia.

Nathaniel Smorti is the soloist for the Clarinet Concerto in A Major by Mozart.

“Playing any piece of Mozart can be an emotional and complicated experience for many modern musicians — myself included,” Nathaniel told The Weekly.

“Mozart wrote his clarinet concerto in 1791 around the time he wrote The Magic Flute. For me both works are full of characters of all types, life in all its flavours, and intensely felt emotion. I believe that if I do my job well, we’ll get a taste of all that operatic drama on Sunday; The Magic Clarinet, if you will.”

Nathaniel has performed as concerto soloist across New Zealand. This Sublime Classics cert is Nathaniel’s Australian concerto debut. Sublime Classics is at 2.30pm on Sunday, July 21, at the Murwillumbah Civic Centre, 10-14 Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah. For more info and tickets, go to nrso.com. au, or at Murwillumbah Music. Tickets also at the door if not sold out.

Guest conductor Carlos del Cueto (left) and solo clarinettist Nathaniel Smorti

The Last Violin screens

By Madeleine Murray

THE FASCINATING, highly emotional documentary The Last Violin is having a special ‘secret’ screening at The Citadel in Murwillumbah on Thursday, July 25.

Two years in the making by well-known Sydney musicians Romano Crivici and Carla Thackrah, The Last Violin is an award-winning documentary about Australia’s great violin maker Charalambos ‘Harry’ Vatiliotis.

One half of the filmmaking team Romano Crivici is a professional violinist and composer and has known Harry for 48 years. Together they share the making of a violin for Romano which threatens to be Harry’s last as the ravages of old age take their toll on both of them.

The other half of the filmmaking team

Carla Thackrah shot the documentary in the suburban Sydney home which Harry and Maria have shared for over 60 years. Harry and his wife Maria came from Cyprus in the 1950s and their deep relationship is part of this candid, brilliantly-edited film.

Carla spent a year coming and going from her corner in Harry’s tiny workshop

recording the making of Harry’s last violin and the love, friendship and humour that the four protagonists share.

“I was left feeling deeply moved because of the power of friendship, love, and care for the ancient traditions of true artisanship; moved witnessing the exactitude, patience and longevity of the work involved in making a violin of such calibre that sings so purely; moved also listening to Romano’s hauntingly beautiful compositions,” wrote musicologist Jude Pickering.

“This is a testament to Harry’s life of violin making, told for future generations, and a testament to the enduring power of love through the inevitable frailties of our later years.”

The exquisite score by Romano Crivici is played entirely on instruments made by Harry for some of Sydney’s best classical musicians.

Carla and Romano travelled with the film to Europe last year where it won Best Documentary Award at the Cyprus In -

ternational Film Festival in Nicosia, and the Bridges International Film Festival in Athens.

The Last Violin will screen at 6pm for a 6.30pm start on Thursday July 25 at The Citadel, Queen Street, Murwillumbah. As well as a concert performance by violinist Dr Hugh Won after the screening, there will be a Q&A with the two filmmakers Carla Thackrah and Romano Crivici. Trailer: vimeo.com/729505074. Tickets events. humanitix.com/the-last-violin

Murwillumbah Library to host book launch

LOCAL AUTHOR Dr Sarah Rossetti will be launching her novel Nullarbor Pearl at the Murwillumbah Library on Saturday, July 20. Sarah has just returned from launching her novel to cheering crowds in Kalgoorlie and at Perth’s State Library.

Sarah came to the Northern Rivers to look after her mum and stepfather in 2017, who since passed away. As a multiaward winning screenwriter, lecturing at SAE in Byron Bay, Sarah nevertheless felt daunted when a local novel writing group invited her to join them.

Seeking to fit in, Sarah immediately set to work on adapting her feature film screenplay Nullarbor Pearl into her first novel newly released by Interactive Publications and Glasshouse Books Brisbane.

She says she is equally excited to be launching at the Murwillumbah Library on July 20. Sarah will be talking about the novel, screening the short film Pilbara Pearl that she wrote which inspired the novel, doing a Q&A, and signing books. Sarah admits to being gobsmacked by the all five-star rave reviews her first novel is receiving on the publisher’s site: https://bit. ly/3TGEl0Q and on Amazon.

“This is a richly entertaining yarn, vividly realised and teeming with well-observed

characters and idiomatic dialogue: all the time wearing lightly its timeless themes of tradition, ancestral connection, identity, belonging and grappling with the power of one’s gifts,” wrote Will Yeoman, CEO Writing WA. Nullarbor Pearl is an uplifting, life-affirming work of magical realist fiction, suited to young adults and adults alike. Sarah is looking forward to welcoming you all into the Pearl family of readers, so Pearl can live on in your hearts and minds too.

Door opens for the free book launch of Nullarbor Pearl at 10am for a 10.30am starton Saturday, July 20 at the Murwillumbah Library, 10 Tumbulgum Road. Bookings essential 02 6670 2447. Light refreshments will be provided. Nullarbor Pearl will be on sale for $25, cash only. Sarah says the more the merrier if attendees wish to join her after the launch for lunch at the Riverview Bistro at midday.

Romano watches Harry glue the bass bar

Romano, Maria and Harry with the last violin

Local author Sarah Rossetti

Filmmaker Carla Thackrah and violinist Romano Crivici

2. Which country

3.

4.

5. What is the name for a devotional song, typically about the life of Krishna, in which a group repeats lines sung by a

5. Kirtan

ACROSS 1 Casket (6) 3 Stayed put (8) 5 Spotted feline (7) 9 Askew (7) 11 Scallywag (6) 13 Wandering off the path (8)

15 Pure gold or silver (7) 16 Electrifying (8) 17 Time of a particular event (8) 18 Left-handed boxers (9) 21 Perturb (8) 23 Narcissus’ fatal flaw (6) 24 Grudge-bearing (8) 27 Unbeliever, heretic (7) 30 Scottish woven cloth patterns (7)

State of turmoil (6) 34 That hurt! (4) 35 Surmising; seizing (8)

Brown pigment (6) 40 Scourge of insects (11) 43 Improbable story (sl) (6)

Wackiest (8) 47 Makeshift watercraft (4)

Place to store wine (6)

Starting point (7)

soothing, like a voice (7) 56 Where wine is made (8) 57 Adam’s apple location (6) 58 Affable (8) 61 Discovered (9) 65 Green around the gills (8)

67 Impose oneself (8)

68 Incognito (7)

69 Journalist (8)

70 Sculpter’s tool (6)

71 Bloodsuckers (7)

72 Restless and agitated (7)

73 Swaggers (8)

74 Assigned moorings (6)

Hare-brained (7)

Written accounts (7)

Titillate (7)

Looped rope (5)

Former Ethiopia (9)

Queries truth or authenticity (6)

Free will (6)

Pooh’s marsupial friend (5)

Hermit (7)

Whereabouts (5)

Regain health (7)

Was indebted (4)

Raised mark or scar (4)

Can

Alluring (8)

be Reversed or Diagonal

25 Spiritual mentor (4)

26 Japanese mountain (4)

28 Assists in crime (5)

29 Supermodel,Campbell (5)

31 Import or export tax (6)

32 Back bones (6) 36 Mouse’s noise (6) 37 Hairstyle popular with punks (6) 38 Long-necked creatures (8)

41 Retrieve (5) 42 Amalgam of metals (5)

Augury (4)

(4)

(4)

(9)

(4)

Military camp (7)

Peeper (7)

Incumbency (6)

Persuades unjustly (7)

Poets (5) 61 Maintains a custom or tradition (7) 62 Emit effortlessly (5)

cattle farm (7)

Work out (6)

I apologise (5)

Minimum word length 4 letters. No plurals allowed. Every word must contain the centre letter (once only).

TRADES AND SERVICES

FEATURED BUSINESS

AS AN ARCHITECT with an Italian background, I have lived in Sydney for the past decade.

Recently, my family and I relocated to the beautiful Tweed Shire for a better lifestyle and a deeper connection with nature.

This area’s natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere have been a wonderful change, providing inspiration and a peaceful environment to pursue our passions.

I have recently launched a small architectural firm in Tweed, offering a full range of architectural design consultancy services for residential, commercial, and community projects.

Jacopo Baldini Architect 0424 588 210

We aim to contribute to Tweed Shire’s architectural landscape with creativity and professionalism.

Our services include:

Concept Design: Creating initial design concepts aligning with clients’ vision and project requirements.

Design Development: Developing detailed designs incorporating functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability.

Documentation: Preparing thorough architectural drawings and specifications for construction and regulatory approval.

Project Management: Overseeing projects from inception to completion, ensuring smooth coordination among

contractors, consultants, and clients.

Interior Design: Enhancing the functionality and aesthetic appeal of spaces within our architectural projects.

Sustainable Design: Integrating sustainable practices to promote energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Consultation Services: Offering expert advice on architectural matters to help clients navigate complex design and regulatory issues.

Our goal is to deliver exceptional architectural solutions that exceed client expectations while enhancing Tweed Shire’s built environment.

With over 10 years of experience working for award-winning practices like Luigi Rosselli Architects, I have gained valuable insights and skills in the field.

Our specialty lies in residential architecture, creating bespoke homes that harmonize with the natural environment and reflect clients’ lifestyle preferences.

We also have experience in commercial and community projects, providing innovative design solutions tailored to each project’s unique needs.

We are excited to be part of the Tweed Shire community, contributing through thoughtful and innovative designs that enhance this unique blend of natural beauty and community spirit.

Our team is committed to exceptional architectural solutions, whether designing dream homes, sustainable commercial spaces, or community-centric projects.

If you have any architectural needs or ideas, we are here to listen and bring them to life, creating spaces that inspire and enrich lives in the Tweed Shire.

jacopo@jbarchitect.com.au

Book Launch

Uncertain Years by Margaret Flecknoe

Saturday 13th July, 2pm to 4pm at the Salvation Army Hall, Banora Point, Corner Leisure & Woodlands Drive. 0408 979 441

HYUNDAI TUSCON 2005. V6, 246,000km, towbar, auto, serviced regularly, sunroof. $6,700 ONO. Also advertised on Facebook Marketplace. Ph: 0432 665 723

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

2012 Holden Colorado 4 x 4 Dual Cab. 125,940km, NSW Rego till Feb 2025, set up for camping, Roof top tent, bulbar, winch etc., lots of extras. For more information phone 0439 477 261. $30,000 ONO

‘02 HYUNDAI SONATA for Sale

Automatic. Air Conditioner. Rego DE58UP. Only 211.500 kms. Very clean car $4.500. 5 Prospero Street, Murwillumbah. Taylor Made Cars Dealer Number -16862 Ph: (02) 6672 5454

FORD FESTIVA TRIO 2 Door Hatchback, 1995, 5 speed, Rego till, Oct 2024, Located Murwillumbah, $1,000. Ph: 0402 077 767

RODEO TRAY BACK One owner. Books. Rego. SDT316. Will trade. $5,500. 5x Speed. Immaculate. Taylor Made Cars 5 Prospero Street, Murwillumbah. Dealer Number - 16862 Ph: (02) 6672 5454

For Sale Yamaha B35N Organ Excellent Condition. Fully serviced. Including stool, music, headphones. $685 - Ph: 0434 588 225

Top Pop Up Tent, Sleeps 2, good condition, $350 ono. Phone 0402 111 675

For Sale

King’s rack for ute $150/Roof-top tent Darche $325/Paddle boards $150 ea/Double kayak $225 incl seats and paddles/Grand tourer tent with side poles & centre pole $125. Will negotiate. 0417 202 871

Lost

Lost, Silver and Turquoise watch. Late husbands. Sentimental value. $300 reward. No questions asked. Phone 0438 703 233

Massage

Massage

Massage & Waxing Tweed Heads South Please send a text to 0479 171 398 www.tweedheadsmassage.com.au

Original Thai massage only. Located Tweed Heads, Phone or text Yaha – 0477 594 800

UNIQUE MODERN CORNER DESK Reduced for sale. Strong aluminum and steel frame, strong tempered glass. $600 Any genuine offer or ONO. Phone 0423 204 486 or 0755 239 252 Jayco Freedom Pop Top, 17 foot, 2001, Anniversary model. Twin beds, 3-way fridge, microwave, Gas stove, TV. Plenty of storage. Full annex, Rego till Nov 2024. $11,900 ono. Phone 0408 053 303

INTERNATIONAL ACCO. TIPPER with 7.2m tray and removable sides, new twin U/body hoists. 6 spare tyres plus straps and chains. Good condition. Ph: 0416 194 498 or (02) 6679 5064 $50,000 2001 Coromal 17ft 6 Pop-top Caravan. Dual Batteries, Solar Panel, lots of extras, good condition. NSW Rego till April 2025. $12,000 phone 0428 755 068 Please leave a message if no answer.

ANTHONY VINCENT FORMICA

04/05/1967 – 29/06/2024

Late of Brisbane. Formerly of Murwillumbah.

Beloved Husband of Lyn and Father of omas. Loved Son of Vince and Narelle and Brother of Neil.

Family and friends are warmly invited to Tony’s funeral service, to be held on Monday 15th July at 11am at Mt ompson Memorial Gardens East Chapel at 329 Nursery Rd, Holland Park Brisbane. White Lady Funerals - Morningside

In Loving Memory

JOHN SAMSON PASCOE

Late of Back Creek (Tyalgum)

Passed away peacefully on Thursday 1st July 2024.

Aged 91 Years

Dearly loved Husband of Roslyn, loved Father and Father-in-Law of Sean and Louisa, Megan and Gary, Kylie and Tim, and cherished Pa and Grandpa. Teacher, farmer and lover of history, adventure and life. He will live on forever in our hearts. A Private Cremation has been held for John.

Ph: (02) 6672 2144 Murwillumbah

Pietro Dusina

We are locally owned and operated 0416 389 587

29/12/1929 -9/8/2021

Late of Crabbes Creek and formally Ono Degno Italy. Passed away peacefully at home 9th August 2021. Aged 91 years.

GREEN Christopher Paul 24/06/2024

Dolphin Funerals 1300 678 443

SNEESBY Roy Henry 27/06/2024

e family of the late Dig Bartlett lovingly express our gratitude for the condolences passed on by his many friends, neighbours and close acquaintances. ank you for all your cherished support.

From the Bartlett family

TWEED PALLIATIVE Support would like to extend a special ‘thank you’ to its wonderful sponsors, volunteers and donors following a recent cake stall sale and barbeque.

The sale took place on Friday, June 14, outside the Murwillumbah store and was a roaring success with $917.60 raised.

Store manager Edna Gorton wanted to highlight the store’s local sponsors: Austral Café, Bakers Delight, Blue Ribbon Meats

We offer holistic and unique funerals that empower you to have a deeply meaningful and inclusive experience

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

Direction cremations $2560 including transfers and all legal paper work

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

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

McGuiness Funerals

Tradition of care

Please refer to our website for funeral notices ww w .mcguinessfunerals.com.au Murwillumbah Billinudgel (02)6672 2144 (02) 6680 3084

JUDITH (SHIRLEY) SMYTH

Late of Bupa Tugun, formerly of Banora Point, PNG, Brisbane, Murwillumbah and Tully. Passed away peacefully on 29 June 2024 after a short illness. Aged 93 years.

Dearly loved wife of John (dec’d), Loving mother of Merrick and Nathan, Much loved sister to John (dec’d) and Marcus, Mother-in-law of Sarah and Leah, Loving grandmother of Natalie, Henry, Benjamin and Charlotte. A wonderful life of service to the nursing profession and dedicated servant to people of PNG. Many thanks to the wonderful sta at Robina Hospital and Bupa Tugun for caring for her. Memorial service for Judy will be held at 2pm on 19 July 2024 at St Anthony’s Kingscli . May she rest in peace.

Store sale a roaring success

and Wollumbin Street Bakery.

“Without their contributions and help the day would not have been such a success,” she said.

“So thank you to everyone.”

Anyone wanting to make a donation to Tweed Palliative Support can visit: https://www.tweedpalliativesupportandwedgetailretreat. com/

Thank you volunteers for your efforts

Dolphin Funerals 1300 678 443

WILKINSON Mary 28/06/2024

Dolphin Funerals

1300 678 443

BERINGER John Archibald 02/07/2024

Dolphin Funerals 1300 678 443

SANDHU Gurdev 02/07/2024

Dolphin Funerals 1300 678 443

JANETZKI Maisie Lorraine 03/07/2024

Dolphin Funerals 1300 678 443

PATTERSON Michael James 05/07/2024

Dolphin Funerals 1300 678 443

DAY Joy Doris 07/07/2024

Dolphin Funerals 1300 678 443

Photos: Tony Brown

Tweed to host inaugural paddle marathon

By Jo Kennett

THE INAUGURAL TWEED 30 Paddle Marathon will be held on Sunday July 21, starting at the Murwillumbah Rowing Club at 8.30am and finishing at Jack Evans Boat Harbour.

The 30km flatwater paddle marathon is being run by Currumbin Creek Paddlers Club as part of the Pacific Coast Marathon Series. The Tweed River is one of the region’s greatest assets and whilst CCPC is a Queensland based club, being the closest paddling club, several of its members reside in

the Tweed Shire. The race is open to various non-motorised paddle craft including ocean skis, kayaks, outriggers and SUPs, both single and doubles. Club President Peter Hickey said that the event is longer than most of the existing marathon races in the series and should interest those wanting to test their endurance over the full thirty kilometres, or others who would prefer to be a part of a relay team of two or three members. There will be relay transition points at Tumbulgum and Chinderah.

Registration is open until 11.59pm

on Wednesday, July 17 via Webscorer or for further information check the Currumbin Creek Paddlers Club Facebook page.

Entrants will need to pick up their boat numbers at the start on race day from 7am and race briefing is at 8am, SUPs will start at 8.30am and other craft at 9am. Water safety boats will lead and follow the craft along the picturesque journey downstream with an outgoing tide to assist paddlers. It is anticipated that the leading paddlers will complete the course in around two hours with most finishing within

four hours.

The event will enable race paddlers to benefit from the newly finished Murwillumbah Rowing Club boat ramp that will restore the club’s full access to the river that has been difficult since the February 2022 floods.

C ompetitors and spectators can support businesses at the transition points and at the Tweed Heads finish with the recently upgraded facilities on the Boundary Street side of Jack Evans Boat Harbour. There will be complimentary food and drinks for all competitors at the finish.

Local ballers in state final

By Jo Kennett

TWEED VALLEY Basketball Association is celebrating a milestone achievement as both the under 16s and under 18s teams have qualified for the North Eastern Junior League (NEJL) finals round in Port Macquarie.

This prestigious event, set to take place on July 27 and 28, marks the first time in 20 years that the Tweed has been represented at this level of competition. This year Tweed Valley Basketball proudly entered 3 teams- U14 girls, U16 boys and U18s Boys. The girls came close but missed out on qualifying and ended up 5th on the ladder. “This has been a great achievement for our first year back in NEJL” said Zac Hoade Presi dent and U14 girls coach.  The path to the finals has been paved with dedication and re lentless effort from both teams. Throughout the season, play ers and coaching staff have committed themselves to

rigorous training and strategic play, culminating in this well-deserved success.

“It’s been an incredible journey,” said U18s coach, Murray Smith.

“The boys have shown immense determination and teamwork.

“To see their hard work pay off with a spot in the finals is truly

“It has been a privilege to be part of this. The exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship has been a standout” Troy Stanley U16s

The under 16 and under 18 teams will now have the chance to showcase their skills and compete against the best

The upcoming finals are not just a testament to their talent but also a significant milestone for the Tweed Valley Basketball Association, signaling the growth and revival of the sport in the Tweed.

Tweed Valley Basketball Association, formerly Murwillumbah Basketball Association, has recently been rebranded to be more inclusive of the whole Tweed Shire. With this the team name for all representative teams is now known as the Tweed Valley Volcanoes.

Parents, supporters, and the local community are rallying behind the teams, eager to see them excel amongst the larger basketball association.

For the players, this is a goal they set at the beginning of the season. “We’ve put in so much effort, and it feels amazing to see it all come together,” said Jayden, U18s captain. “We’re ready to give it our all in Port Macquarie.”

The Tweed Valley Basketball Association invites everyone to join in celebrating this momentous occasion and support the teams as they aim for glory.

“We are keen to build this race into an annual blue-ribbon event where it can encourage paddlers and their families to appreciate the beauty of the Tweed Valley and its magnificent river,” Mr Hickey said.

“We hope that spectators will come out and watch the paddlers from the various vantage points along the Tweed River and give them encouragement on their journey downstream. W hilst the river is used by many different craft, it would be appreciated if motorised craft could be mindful of paddlers on this day,”

Kids tennis day a big hit at Pottsville

By Jo Kennett

SIXTY-TWO LUCKY kids attended Pottsville Beach Tennis Club’s (PBTC) Junior Gala Day, with games, drills, food and prizes for everyone and it was all free.

Some participants were lucky enough to get an Ash Barty racquet as part of the AIA Health Insurance funding with Sunshine Hearing, Tennis NSW, Yonex also providing gifts.

PBTCs Helen Flood said it was the biggest day the club had ever held.

“Sophie is a wonderful coach and it’s been a big day for her,” Helen said.

Life member of 25 years

Anne Taylor was a special guest and said, “it was wonderful to see all the kids playing.”

Tennis Development Officer for Tennis NSW Rob Fitzgerald said the turnout was “a huge credit to the PBTC committee and Sophie.”

“The funding for today was provided by AIA Insurance through the ambassadorship with Ash Barty and Steph Gilmore who were here late last year,” Rob said.

“Pottsville Beach Tennis Club along with their committee is absolutely fantastic.

“There is such a dedicated passionate group of just genuinely great people.

“They care deeply and are very passionate about tennis but also about community.

“It’s all about the juniors and trying to introduce that same passion to that next generation as well.”

Tweed 30 start at M'bah ramp

Jack Evans Boat Harbour finish at Twin Towns

Tumbulgum changeover

Chinderah changeover

Main image above is the Tweed Valley Basketball U16s team. Inset right is the U18s side. Inset right is playing in Tamworth

Coach Sophie Letcher with some happy kids

Above left: Tennis NSW's Rob Fitzgerald. Right: Anne Taylor with Helen Flood

Real Estate Estate

Concept approval for Tweed Mall redevelopment

By Jo Kennett

THE NORTHERN Regional Planning

Panel has given concept approval to the Elanor Investment Group (EIG) for the $900 million masterplan for the redevelopment of Tweed Mall. The masterplan includes 13 new buildings of up to 15 storeys which will include 1,400 townhouses and apartments.

The plan includes 45,000 square metres of retail space including the three supermarkets already in Tweed Mall, a fresh food market and food and beverage outlets, a 52-room hotel, 14,000 square metres of office space, a medical centre, a cinema complex, a childcare centre for up to 200 children, a wellness centre and gymnasium.

The deferred commencement consent is subject to a number of conditions and amendments with further information to be provided within two years, and if the development has not commenced within five years, the approval will lapse.

“The conditions set out extensive information that has to be provided for each DA submitted which will again go out for public consultation, so it will be of paramount importance the significant outstanding issues

are properly addressed,” Tweed District Residents and Ratepayers Association president Lindy Smith said.

Elanor’s Head of Retail, Development and Mixed-Use, Matt Healy, said the masterplan “embodies a forward-thinking vision to create a sustainable mixed-use town centre that meets the growing demand for housing and aligns with modern consumer preferences for integrated living, working, and

Open Homes

Saturday, July 13

MANA

• 119 Commercial Road, Murwillumbah. 9-9.30am

• 16 Eloura Court, Ocean Shores. 9-9.30am

• 142 Bakers Road, Dunbible. 10-11am

• 46 Orana Road, Ocean Shores. 10-10.30am

• 10 Palmer Avenue, Ocean Shores. 10-10.30am

• 28 Philip Street, South Golden Beach. 11-11.30am

• 39a Granuille Road, Bangalow. 11.30-12pm

leisure spaces.

“This vibrant triple-supermarket anchored, integrated town centre will act as a gateway to Tweed Heads.

“This approved masterplan is a pivotal opportunity to redefine the future of Tweed Heads, celebrating its rich diversity and history.”

Mr Healy said the development will feature “world-class retail, food and beverage outlets, commercial spaces, entertainment venues,

tourism attractions, and residential developments.”

Local residents agree more housing is needed, but some have expressed serious concerns with overshadowing, wind tunnelling, insufficient car parking and traffic for the “ten to 15 year construction period and noise, dust and vibration impacts on surrounding residents.”

Mr Healy told The Weekly that the masterplan was modified to take into account feedback after “extensive

• 67 Commercial Road, Murwillumbah. 11.30-12pm McGrath

• 6 Brett Street Tweed Heads 9-10am

• 187/1 Mariners Drive West, Tweed Heads 10.3011am

• 7 Clancy Place Terranora 11-11.30am

• 2073/9 Enid Street, Tweed Heads 11.30-12pm

DJ Stringer Property Services

• 14 Kallara St, Tugun 9:00-9:30am

• 3H/828 ‘Rocks Resort’ Pacific Pde, Currumbin 10:0010:30am

• 20 Eliza Fraser Court, Terranora 10:00-10:30am

consultation” with Tweed Shire Council and the state governmentappointed architect.

He said modifications to the original design and built form include to traffic circulation and movements, car parking configuration setbacks, heights and floor space ratios of the individual residential towers, including the downsizing of the proposed scale, extensive additional initiatives in “ecologically sustainable design” including incorporating a “green heart” into the development and “significant additions and improvements to environmental advancements in energy, water, stormwater and waste.”

“We believe this will act as a transformational development for the area and act as a catalyst for a revitalisation of the entire Tweed Heads region,” he said.

“Tweed Mall is well located to accommodate the proposed scale of the development.

“A significant amount of work has been completed from a traffic perspective that has confirmed that the site and surrounding area is well positioned to accommodate the proposed scale of the development.”

EGI says the redevelopment will generate over 550 construction jobs annually, and support over 3,000 ongoing jobs on completion.

• 1/339 Golden Four Dr, Tugun 11:00-11:30am

• 11/3-5 Barrett St, Tweed Heads West 11:00-11:30am

• 4/3 Island Drive, Tweed Heads 11:15-11:45am

Justin Schmith

• 18/14 Lorikeet Drive, Tweed Heads South, 10-10.30

Tate Brownlee

• 11 Fraser Drive, Tweed Heads South, 9-9:30am

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• 518 Terranora Road, Terranora, 12-12:30pm

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The Tweed Mall redevelopment is one step closer to approval

4 Mitchell Street, Uki

Scan QR for more details and open home times.

Wendy Rosenbaum

Licensee-in-Charge MANA Murwillumbah

0437 709 993

wendy@manare.au

237 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah

Scan QR for more details and open home times.

Wendy Rosenbaum

Licensee-in-Charge MANA Murwillumbah

0437 709 993

wendy@manare.au

Coast to country, we’ve got you covered. manare.au

142 Bakers Road, Dunbible

Scan QR for more details and open home times.

Wendy Rosenbaum 0437 709 993 wendy@manare.au

Licensee-in-Charge MANA Murwillumbah

6 Central Park Lane, Casuarina

Scan QR for more details and open home times.

Wendy Rosenbaum

Licensee-in-Charge MANA Murwillumbah

0437 709 993

wendy@manare.au

MANA Murwillumbah (02) 6672 4477 manare.au

MANA Ocean Shores (02) 6680 5000 manare.au

Guiding you home

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Our aim is simple: to provide our clients with cost effective, thorough and detailed independent advice, rolled up with

Our experienced valuers live, work and play in the areas we service so their knowledge knows no bounds. We come up with the goods to enable you to make solid, buying properties.

COVERAGE AREAS:

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THE MARKET IS THRIVING! ARE YOU READY?

Schmith Estate Agents is committed to achieving the best price for your property in the shortest time possible. Our team will maximise your property's online exposure, gain more buyer enquiries, and showcase your home through virtual and live inspections.

Your property will be targeted specifically to an audience who are actively looking for homes just like yours. We are committed to helping you stay ahead of the wave before more properties become available and saturate the market. We continue to sell properties every week!

Let our team propel your property with our multi-platform marketing campaign and achieve the best possible results you and your home deserves.

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Company and third-party website listings

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