Tweed Valley Weekly, June 27, 2024

THE HIGHLY anticipated Victory Organisation Group Tweed Business Awards will take place at M|Arts on Friday, August 16. Business owners are being encouraged to purchase their tickets now for the big event which has a cap of 300. The Weekly caught up with the M|Arts and Murwillumbah business chamber teams this week for a photo and to find out more about the awards coming to M|Arts. For questions please email: info@businessmurwillumbah. com.au

The amazing performers from The Hoodlum

company will entertain guests at this year's Tweed Business Awards.

Ballet

Greenhills future uncertain

By Jonathon Howard

THE ONCE thriving Greenhills Lodge residential aged care facility on Tweed Valley Way in South Murwillumbah is falling into disrepair, with increasing vandalism and break-ins following the withdrawal of the aged care operator two years ago.

Tweed Shire Council is the owner of Greenhills and has received advice from the NSW Reconstruction Authority that it would “not be pursuing the opportunity” to use the site as workers’ accommodation.

This has left Greenhills Lodge without a viable tenant, and there’s concern from councillors that it could become a money pit for future developers or fall into disrepair.

Although the building once housed 44 elderly residents and was a thriving business, it was deemed unsafe following the 2022 flood and the operator exited the site citing flood safety concerns.

Councillors debated the future of the site during their monthly meeting on Thursday, June 20, and to determine the best step to prevent further dilapidation.

Council’s report noted that site supervision staff are visiting the property two to four times per week and are reporting “regular break-ins, theft, vandalism and

rough sleepers using the building”.

However, council staff outlined “significant work” and a development application would be legally required to gain approval to use the site for anything other than a residential aged care facility.

“It would take about 12 months to three years to get the site reused or repurposed,”

council staff told councillors during the meeting.

Council’s report noted that fire hydrants and sprinklers remain charged, but the fire panel is defective and is decommissioned.

“This means that there is no active automatic warning system or a way to test that the sprinkler system is working,” council’s report read.

“Council can reinstate the fire safety system for approximately $75,000 but this potentially represents poor investment of limited funds given the future use of the building is uncertain.”

Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis called for a full-time groundsperson to be employed to take over as site caretaker, but council said the costs were too prohibitive.

“We are in a housing crisis and what’s needed is safe spaces for people to find a bed for the night, or on a short-term basis to bridge the housing gap,” Cr Dennis said.

Councillors eventually voted to continue

exploring options for future use of the facility with Homes NSW, other government agencies and not-for-profit groups that were part of the previous tender process for provision of services at this site.

The motion also outlined that council proceed with the further geotechnical investigation of the landslip with a view to undertaking the remediation of the landslip if and when funding becomes available.

Councillors supported the idea of securing a not-for-profit tenant into the site to utilise part of the facility while the works are occurring to ensure no further degradation of the buildings occurs.

The motion was carried with all but Cr James Owen voting in support.

ANZ branch to close

By Jonathon Howard

RESIDENTS ARE expressing outrage over ANZ’s decision to permanently close its Murwillumbah branch as of December 11 this year, despite earlier indications that it would remain open.

The ANZ Murwillumbah branch has operated for decades on Murwillumbah’s main street and residents expressed shock at the decision to close the branch.

ANZ said the decision has been driven by the increase in digital banking, but that’s not what many residents had to say online.

Dozens of local business owners, many of whom do business banking with ANZ in Murwillumbah, have expressed disgust at the decision.

“That’s another 25 minutes of travel time to go to Tweed Heads to bank with ANZ,” one business owner told The Weekly.

“Meanwhile, they’re making record amounts of money, but where’s the service? It’s with Australia Post or other banks now to pick up the pieces.”

The comments on social media went further to describe one of Australia’s biggest banks as being “enabled by digital” and giving up on face-to-face service.

“Digital has enabled them to become

so big they actually can’t do service anymore and anyone that works in one that wants to is hog tied from doing so,” one comment stated.

“They have classed Murwillumbah as a city which means training doctors can’t come here because it’s not a country town anymore and yet they are shutting all the banks,” another resident said.

The Weekly took these concerns to ANZ’s head of media for a response.

ANZ District Manager Glenn Schofield said Australians are adopting digital methods as their preferred way to bank, with around 99 per cent of ANZ customer transactions conducted digitally or via an ATM.

“We are working closely with our customers to ensure they are well supported and aware of all the ways they can complete their banking,” Mr Schofield said.

“Customers can continue to bank via the ANZ app, internet banking and phone banking.

“We also have a team of community-based bankers, such as mobile lenders, who meet with our customers to discuss their banking needs at a location that best suits them.”

Mr Schofield emphasised that ANZ customers have fee-free access to 2,600

ATMs operated by ANZ and atmx across Australia, as well as fee-free access to thousands of additional ATMs operated by other major banks.

“Customers can also withdraw money using EFTPOS facilities at the Coles supermarket in Murwillumbah,” he said.

ANZ said the Murwillumbah ANZ branch currently operates Monday, Thursday and Friday from 9.30am–1.30pm, and will permanently close from December 11.

ANZ customers are able to visit the Tweed Heads South branch for any faceto-face banking needs.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Will you miss having the ANZ in Murwillumbah? Or have you switched to digital banking? Send us your thoughts to editor@theweekly.net.au

Greenhills Lodge was once a thriving aged care facility, but following the 2022 floods and a landslip, its future is now uncertain without a new tenant

The ANZ Murwillumbah branch in 2008, but it dates back many more years

Cr Polglase fights for what he believes

Long-serving Tweed Shire councillor Warren Polglase announced on June 13 that he was stepping back from politics and will support National Party council contender Kimberley Hone.

Warren lives for and eats politics. Stepping back just means he won’t be a candidate.

However, until his end, Warren will always be in the background of politics in the Tweed and Richmond.

Although we hardly agreed over anything political, over time I learned to respect Warren’s consistency, persistence and flexibility.

You always know where you stand with Warren even if you were the enemy.

Warren stands for and fights for what he believes in and I wish him well and thank him for being Warren. Without question he was one of a kind and did his job and improved the Tweed.

Terry Sharples, Tweed Heads

Parking not fines

I don’t usually write letters, but feel the need following reports around parking in Murwillumbah in The Weekly recently.

In regards to Michelle Dean’s letter last week, ‘Parking before fines’. I too was slugged with a $129 fine for “parking continuously for longer than indicated”. I had parked in an all-day zone!

I implore everyone who is fined to check details of your fine online and write to council. Business is already difficult without scaring people away, including the tourist dollar.

Tweed Shire Council needs to find a better solution and quickly, not at government pace.

David Devine, Murwillumbah Great work Mr Varela

Sad to read that Con Varela is retiring from his pharmacy (TVW, June 13).

Even though I wasn’t his regular

customer, any time my usual chemist didn’t have required medication, I ended up there where I was always welcomed with a smile, professional service and the help I needed. Happy retirement Con and thank you.

Tom Gerhard, Murwillumbah Lack of doctor specialists

Regarding Diann Endicott’s’ letter to The Weekly on June 20, I too am on a waiting list at Gold Coast University Hospital to have eye surgery on both eyes, one in which is quite serious.

I have been waiting for over 12 months now without a sign of getting surgery anytime soon and while waiting my eyesight is deteriorating.

I also rang the Tweed Valley Hospital regarding an ophthalmologist specialist, thinking as the hospital was new they would surely have one there, saving me a horrendous trip to the Gold Coast.

Murwillumbah Hospital do a bit of eye surgery but not what I need to have.

For a brand new hospital I think it is disgraceful that an important specialist is not available.

So many elderly people in the shire would be needing their services as well.

There seems to be quite a few oph thalmologists in Tweed Heads but none of them bulk bill.

I am on the aged pension and there is no way I can afford any specialist fees.

In the meantime, I’ll have to wait and hope my waiting time isn’t much longer.

Gayl Deveney, Tweed Heads Airport has my vote

I am somewhat surprised at the com ments and attitude of some people and their letters to The Weekly regard ing the proposal to the extensions at the Gold Coast Airport.

It never ceases to amaze me how some people don’t like change or want to see progress for the future.

Comments made were people worried about the noise and the impact to their health.

Let’s not forget the airport has been there for a long time and those who have bought or about to buy surely must realise and be aware of the flight path that covers the airport.

I am on the flight path and the planes go directly over the top of my home, I have got used to hearing them, I certainly don’t have to turn up my TV or believe it affects my health — that’s a load of rubbish in my view. Planes are gone within three to four seconds and things go back to normal.

I say we cannot stop progress, and I for one would like to see the airport grow and be a stopover for international flights that would also bring trade to the area.

My vote goes for progress and better services for the Gold Coast and Tweed.

Thomas George, Banora Point Dredging levy idea

I wish to put forward an idea that could save many local home owners in the Tweed area that are now subject to floods inundating their property, where in the past there never was a flood problem.

Why not add a dredging levy to es -

living here already.

Julie Robinson, Tweed Heads Insurance complaint

I wish to complain about home insurance companies.

I live in Banora Point and never had a claim in the eight years I have lived here.

They now bunch up insurance under postcodes and I’ve never had any issues with flooding etc.

They want to charge anywhere from $3,500 to $5,000 for home insurance and I am sure that many pensioners in the same boat are unable to pay these unfair amounts for one year’s home insurance.

It would be great if our elected members could grab these companies by the horns.

Rick Vaughan, Banora Point Renewable realities

Greens councillor Nola Firth wants us to switch from gas to ‘much cleaner’ electricity (TVW, June 20) now carried, most of it from Queensland using coal to produce four times the emissions for the same heating.

The NEM Watch website provides real-time electricity demand and supply in megawatts (MW) from all sources in all states.

On 21 June, wind provided 1.9

of long transmission lines, of providing baseload power using intermittent sources and of replacing renewables two to four times as often as nuclear reactors, arguably the safest, cleanest, most reliable and environmentally friendly energy source.

D Weston Allen, Cudgen Day VIEW Club in July

Well, it is Christmas in July approaching again and we marvel at how times flies.

This is not a problem for ladies in the Twin Towns Day VIEW Club as there is always a pleasant distraction coming up in the future.

So, yes, we will be celebrating at our forthcoming luncheon/meeting which will be held as is the usual on the first Thursday of the month, being the July 4, and the venue is the South Tweed Sports Club from 10.30am for an 11am start.

Your lunch will be as you to choose from at the bar or bistro.

As is normal we will have a guest speaker and Fiona will tell us about her time nursing in India, so this will add to our motto, which is, voice, interests, education of women (VIEW). We are very pleased to report another point of interest is we are gaining more membership through local me -

Food security debated

By Jonathon Howard

HOMES DAMAGED by the 2022 flood and purchased under the flood buyback scheme in areas such as Bray Park and South Murwillumbah could become viable plots for farming in a bid to sure up Tweed’s food security.

The prospect was raised by Tweed Shire councillors during their monthly meeting on Thursday, June 20, titled ‘Food security in the Northern Rivers’.

Mayor Chris Cherry raised the motion and cited several key reports stressing the need to coordinate food systems to ensure food security is retained in the face of the changing climate and natural disasters.

“Key recommendations in the report include the need to protect farmland from urban sprawl and to explore options with local councils for the development of urban agriculture,” council’s report said, referencing the federal government’s inquiry into food security in Australia.

Mayor Cherry said the idea to farm former housing sites has great potential, with land to be leased to farmers using houses purchased under the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

“This is an opportunity that needs to be explored,” Mayor Cherry said.

“All other councils, minus Richmond Valley, are putting forward similar proposals.

“Let’s all write a similar message to the state and federal governments to get a better system collating and organising all the issues of food security.”

The motion, which was carried by a majority vote, called on council to consult with the Reconstruction Authority about the potential use of land bought through the Resilient Homes Program to be used

for future agricultural uses that could increase food production.

Cr Warren Polglase said he’s heard the food security debate for a long time and it’s “not what farmers want”.

“I’m sick and tired of hearing ‘wokey’ words about agriculture when they really know nothing about it,” he said during council’s meeting.

“There’s nothing mentioned about the farmers, people who are committed to the long hours and at great costs.

“It’s nice to be sitting in a warm office debating farming, but how many of you have sat on a tractor for hours for very little return.

“The biggest hindrances on farmers today is costs — insurance, fuel costs and more.”

Cr Polglase said the cost of generating about two tonnes of food equals about 1.8 tonnes in costs.

Cr Polglase also questioned the viability of farming on former housing sites across the Tweed.

“Many of these farmers were devastated by floods, but they rise up and go again,” he said.

“You can’t consider some of these sites viable agricultural plots.

“My concern is, we as a council, is how we can support inputs and costs for farmers.

“Food security is going to be challenging and it all boils down to costs.”

Cr Polglase also stressed the “significant amount of red tape” that farmers are forced to adhere to on a regular basis.

“The amount of red tape too, for example, to dig a dam, is outrageous,” he said.

“Farmers want support to get costs down and inputs. Better input costs to farmers is what’s needed.

“Food security is way beyond what farmers want.”

Cr Firth acknowledged Cr Polglase’s concerns but stressed that this was an opportunity to reinforce the Tweed’s food future as clean.

Continues on page 6.

South Murwillumbah was heavily impacted by the 2022 Tweed flood and there were 229 homes mooted for buyback

THE LEGAL LIGHT!

Should

the law allow 16-yearolds to vote?

For the first time sixteen-year-olds in Europe were allowed to vote in the recent election for the European parliament, and they turned out in droves.

Sixteen-year-olds can vote in Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador, Cuba, Austria and Nicaragua. Now there is a fresh movement for Australia to change the law to allow 16-year-olds to be able to vote, but not to make it compulsory as it is for everyone over eighteen.

New Zealand’s highest court has ruled the country’s voting age of 18 is age discrimination.

“The argument is that many major issues such as climate change will have the biggest impact on today’s young people, and so they should be able to have a say in their future,” said Dion Bull, environmental lawyer at Stacks Law Firm.

“Today it is legal for teenagers under 18 to drive a car at 16, have a job, open a bank account, pay taxes, consent to sex, be sent to jail and own property. Ten-year-olds can be charged with a criminal offence, at 13 be military cadets and at 17 join the military – but they can’t vote.”

“The legal right to vote has been steadily expanded since Australian federation in 1901. In Australia’s first national election in 1901, only men over 21 could vote. In 1902 women won the right to vote. In 1924 voting was made compulsory due to low turnout. In 1962 the national law was changed to allow Indigenous people to vote.

“During the Vietnam War, 18-year-olds were conscripted and sent to fight, kill and die without being allowed to vote. It wasn’t until 1973 and the war was over for Australia that the new Labor government dropped the voting age to 18,” Mr Bull said.

The Greens have a Bill before parliament to lower the voting age. An activist campaign called Make It 16 argues working 16 and 17-year-olds pay tax, so they should have a say in how the country is run.

The disillusioned young tend to favour fringe and single-issue parties and independent candidates rather than the major established political parties, because they feel ignored.

“Thousands of teens protested for more to be done to combat climate change, and they were frustrated not enough was done. Perhaps for that reason the big parties are not keen on lowering the voting age,” Mr Bull said.

“Allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to vote could pressure the major parties to take the young more into consideration when formulating policies, such as those related to housing, education and the environment.”

Fundraiser for surfer’s recovery

By Jo Kennett

A FUNDRAISER has been set up to help a surfer airlifted to a Brisbane hospital with a broken back after a surfing accident at Duranbah Beach on Tuesday, June 18, with surfers praised for coming to the rescue and potentially saving his life.

The surfer, named Johnny, was captured on the Duranbah surf camera taking off close to shore on a small wave that peaked where he took off but then closed out onto a sandbank.

Nearby surfers saw him struggling in the water after he hit the sand and paddled over to assist.

One of them waved a board to alert people onshore that they needed help while the other surfers kept his head above water.

The injured man was placed on a spinal board and taken to shore where he was assessed by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter critical care team and airlifted to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital with suspected spinal injuries.

Madeleine Gordon, a friend of Johnny and his fiancée Charlie, has since started a fundraiser which includes the following words from Charlie, used with their permission: “On his first wave of the day, he hit a sand bank and broke his back, bent his spinal cord, broke a few ribs and had a slightly collapsed lung,” Charlie wrote.

“He was held above the surface and helped into shore by a group of surfers, body boarders and lifeguards who we are eternally grateful for and thank you will truly never be enough.

“He was then treated by a team of paramedics, and airlifted by Westpac Rescue Helicopter to Brisbane to have surgery

and begin what will be the biggest journey of our lives.

“Johnny’s surgery went really well, everything is now back where it’s supposed to be. He is currently paralysed from the waist down with no sensation, we remain incredibly positive and are going to throw everything we possibly can at this.

“Day by day those that know Johnny know he doesn’t give up easy.

“There really will never be the words for everyone that has supported us so far.

“We have a long road ahead, but he’s alive, his sense of humour is still intact and there’s a lot of positivity coming from this hospital ward.”

Northern NSW Lifeguard Coordinator Scott McCartney said they got the callout for the rescue, but the Gold Coast lifeguard had gone around on the jet ski from Snapper Rocks.

“The major shoutout was to the surfers who helped him out,” Scott said.

“They did a really good job of keeping him above water and trying to stabilise his spine until the lifeguards got there.

“They stabilised him and got him back to shore.

“In any of these spinal incidents, that first minute or two is the difference and crucial for the victim.

“The chances of survival if they are paralysed or face down are very slim.

“Everyone did a great job and potentially saved his life.”

Scott said that in the last month or so there has been consistent swell on open beaches like Duranbah, which was around three feet.

“A lot of sand has moved in so the bank is really shallow,” he said.

“Kingy is a great example. It generally

has a deep gutter, but now that has filled in a bit, so there is a sandbank from the creek mouth to the surf club and it stays there all day.

“I’m a surfer and I know the waves can be better and barreling more at low tide but it brings greater risk.”

Scott said surfers and swimmers need to be cautious on the lower tide.

“Unfortunately these accidents happen and there’s not much you can do about it,” he said.

“The ocean is so unpredictable; you can be safe in ten-foot waves but two-foot days can be more dangerous because the waves are breaking closer in shallow water and they are suckier.

“It’s good to surf and swim where there are other people, so if you get into trouble you can be spotted and help can be called.

“In winter there are a lot less people in the water and you might be surfing a quiet back beach, but try to make sure there are other people around, or surf and swim with friends.”

Help Johnny’s recovery by donating online via: gofundme.com/f/johnnys-road-to-recovery-spinal-injury

Farming on flood sites question

Continued from page 5.

Cr Meredith Dennis voted in support of the motion and highlighted that the Murwillumbah Farmers’ Markets were recently voted the best markets in the world.

“I think it’s a great idea,” Cr Dennis said.

“We are going to have all those houses from the floods to use for farming, which is great, and would not want it to look like lawns.”

Mayor Cherry said she agreed with all the councillors’ views, including Cr Polglase, and reinforced the need for a

whole-of-government approach to food security.

“We saw in the flood and fires just how vulnerable food security is to shocks,” she said.

“This is an issue that involves all levels of government, including local councils.

“The recommendations that have been made from state and federal governments shows that local councils can impact food security, through land use planning, supporting markets, encouraging land from the resilience homes program to be con-

sidered for farming via lease agreements.

“This is an opportunity that needs to be explored.

“The motion calls for writing to different ministers and we need to have some real government oversight to have a food security strategy.

“Let’s make sure we get a better system for food security across all the risks.”

YOUR THOUGHTS: Would you like to see former housing sites used for farming?

Please share your thoughts and letters with us via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

For a consultation

Anne-Marie Fahey Solicitor

Johnny recovering in hospital in Brisbane

Tweed Link

Join the Gallery’s community picnic

Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre’s annual Community Picnic & Artist Paint Out will be taking place on Sunday 30 June from 2 – 5 pm.

Bring along family and friends for an inspiring afternoon of artmaking, live music and creative activities for all ages.

This event will take place on Gallery grounds, offering spectacular views of the Tweed Valley looking towards Wollumbin/Mt Warning.

Artists of all skill levels are invited to bring their own materials to work 'en plein air' (French for painting outdoors), while taking in some live music, with fine food and free activities for children on offer.

Guest artist Monica Rohan will be on hand to mentor

artists and chat with participants who can also enjoy watching her work in response to the stunning landscape.

Her work will also be on show inside the Gallery in exhibitions A Delicate Terrain and Margaret Olley From the Collection.

Children are invited to take part in fun creative activities led by local illustrator Leith Walton from Nurtured Creations.

Guests will experience live music from Felicity Lawless and Phil Howell and can bring their own picnic or purchase food from Apex Dining.

No bookings are required.

For more information and further details for artists visit gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au/workshops-events

One paw print closer – Contract awarded to build new Animal Pound and Rehoming Centre at South Murwillumbah

The Tweed’s new Animal Pound and Rehoming Centre is one step closer to fruition after Council awarded a contract to design and construct the new state-of-the-art facility.

At their meeting on 20 June, Council unanimously agreed to award the design and construct contract for the new facility to Alder Construction Pty Ltd following a rigorous tendering process, with submissions received from six companies.

The $6.8 million contract is for the design and construction of the main animal rehoming building and carpark on Council-owned land at 92 – 102 Lundberg Drive, South Murwillumbah.

Work on the site will begin following completion of capping earthworks currently underway to rehabilitate the former tip site.

In total, the facility is expected to cost $9.1 million and is funded by Tweed Shire Council with the support of the Australian and NSW governments.

Construction is expected to commence by mid-tolate 2024, with completion due by late 2025, weather permitting.

The new centre will replace Council’s former pound at Stotts Creek, which closed in 2019 after it was found to be flood-prone, and the area was required as part of the expansion of Council’s Resource and Recovery

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

The new centre will be open to the public seven days a week and have the capacity to house up to 80 companion animals – 40 dogs and 40 cats – in need of new homes. It also includes space for animal enrichment at the rear of the property which is an important element of the design.

In brief ...

Take the Plastic Free pledge

Choose to refuse single-use plastic next month, by taking on the Plastic Free July challenge.

An astonishing 10 billion kilograms of household waste has been avoided by millions of participants across the globe over the past 5 years, making for cleaner streets, healthier oceans and more liveable communities.

To mark Plastic Free July, Council is hosting a series of free beeswax wrap workshops across the Tweed.

• 10 July: Tyalgum and Tumbulgum Halls

• 11 July: Crabbes Creek and Pottsville Halls

• 12 July: Kingscliff Library

Workshops are suitable for ages 5 and above. Young children must be accompanied by an adult.

Places are limited. Secure your spot at tweed.nsw. gov.au/recycling-reducing-waste

Find out more about Plastic Free July at plasticfreejuly.org

NSW Reconstruction Authority industry briefing

The NSW Reconstruction Authority is hosting a Home Raising and Home Retrofit Industry Webinar on Thursday 4 July, from 3 to 4:30 pm.

Hear from industry experts and the Resilient Homes Program team about how the program will work, industry standards and best practice for home raising and retrofits. The agenda includes:

• Home Raising and Home Retrofit streams overview

• Technical considerations

• Information and support available from Building Commission NSW and SafeWork NSW to ensure works comply with building and safety standards. The session is suitable for local builders, tradespersons, home raisers, building designers, architects, engineers and certifiers.

Register for the webinar at events.humanitix.com/ building-industry-briefing-webinar

Get the Tweed Link early

Be one of the first to see all the latest news from Tweed Shire Council each week.

Subscribers to the Tweed Link receive it by email each week on Wednesday mornings, in addition to it appearing in print in the Tweed Valley Weekly on Thursdays. But that’s not all – you can also subscribe to Council job alerts, media releases and a range of e-newsletters and Council facility program alerts.

Sign up at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe

Additional parking spaces provide relief for Murwillumbah CBD while repairs continue on multi–level car park

An additional 72 car parks have been reopened on Levels 2 and 3 of the multi-level car park in Murwillumbah, including 2 disability spaces. The spaces were reopened after discussions with Council’s insurers, engineers and specialist repairers following a direction to provide immediate relief to the business community in the CBD.

to acknowledge the

and

The additional car parks have been opened as an interim measure while Council awaits repairs to the remainder of the facility which was damaged by fire in December last year.

Entry will remain via Queen Street and motorists are asked to follow the directional signage. Parking will be unlimited and free while repairs

continue - vouchers are not required during this time.

The Local Traffic Committee is also investigating changes to existing taxi zones in Queen Street, removing time-limited parking in Knox Park, and reducing short-term parking in Tumbulgum Road. Council Rangers will return to their usual patrols in monitoring parking in the CBD.

speaking people of the Bundjalung Country, in particular the Goodjinburra, Tul-gi-gin and

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.

Tweed Shire Council wishes

Ngandowal

Minyungbal

Moorung – Moobah

Join the Gallery for its annual Community Picnic & Artist Paint Out on Sunday 30 June. Photo Kate Holmes

Ranger Alan Swift and Team Leader - Rangers Kristian Pakula check the concept design for the new Animal Pound and Rehoming Centre.

Chinderah Community Hub gains additional funding

The Chinderah Community Hub (CCH) has received additional funding to keep its support services going until next year.

Created from the need to assist those impacted by the devastating floods of 2022, the future of the CCH remained uncertain going into 2024.

However, thanks to funding from government and non-government sources, they will remain in operation until mid-2025.

The CCH now also has access to the refurbished Chinderah Scout Hall, where they will hold a Community Closet each month. This will be open to all members of the community to come along and select men’s and women’s clothing from a wide range of quality used and new donated items.

The Community Closet is open to everyone from 9:30 am to 12 pm on the last Wednesday of each month.

To find out more about the Chinderah Community Hub and other community support services , visit Council’s webpage at tweed.nsw.gov.au/floodrecovery-update#community-services

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

DA22/0108 - Shop top housing comprising of 8 commercial tenancies, 16 residential units, basement parking and includes a 24 lot strata subdivision

Lot 58DP 1264557, No. 9 Grand Parade CASUARINA

DA22/0328 - Multi dwelling housing comprising 3 x 3-bedroom dwellings and demolition of the existing dwelling as staged construction

Lot 8 Section 2DP 11315, No. 15 Boomerang Street KINGSCLIFF

DA23/0090 - Alterations and additions to existing tavern and increased hours of operation

Lot 171 DP 629328, No. 28-40 Overall Drive POTTSVILLE

DA24/0166 - Inground swimming pool

Lot 5 DP 833680, No. 9 Bald Mountain Road LIMPINWOOD

DA24/0145 - Inground swimming pool

Lot 6 DP 215458, No. 8 Jalibah Avenue TWEED HEADS

Refused

DA23/0438 - Change of use of fill material and delivery method on an approved fill site

Lot 11 DP 871753, Lot 12 DP 871753, Lot 13 DP 871753, Lot 14 DP 871753, Lot 1 DP 781714, Lot 2 DP 781714, Lot 3 DP 781714, Lot 4 DP 781714, Lot 5 DP 781714, Lot 6 DP 781714, Lot 7 DP 781714, Lot 8 DP 781714, Lot 9 DP 781714, Quigan Street

KINGSCLIFF

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

Community notice

Chinderah Districts Residents Association meet Tuesday 2 July 2024, 7 pm (AEST) at Uniting Church Hall, 24 Kingscliff Street, opposite nursing home Kingscliff.

Current vacancies

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

WATER WEEK 12 Check when your water meter is read at tweed.nsw.gov.au/meter-reading

Kingscliff laneway named in honour of volunteer Fay Gleave

Family, friends and members of the Kingscliff community came together last Friday to mark the naming of a footway in Viking Street in honour of much-loved community member Fay Gleave.

A request to name the previously unnamed pathway, which connects Viking Street with Gibson Street, was presented to Council in February following representations from the community.

Known by all as ‘Mother Fay’, the Kingscliff resident was a champion of the community and loved by all she encountered in her position at St John Ambulance NSW, where she co-founded the Kingscliff Brigade in 1985 and served the community for many years.

As an instructor, it is estimated Fay taught more than 6,000 primary school children and many thousands of adults the fundamentals of first aid.

A regular in her uniform at community and sporting events, Fay’s unwavering service to St John’s saw her honoured twice as the Tweed’s Citizen of the Year Award – in 1993 and again in 2015. She was also awarded the State Premier’s Award for Community Service in 1992 and named one of 140 women in the book Celebrating Outstanding Women in Australia, published in 2011.

Fay’s grandson, Mark Gleave, said the family was touched by Council’s gesture to name the laneway after his grandmother – a suggestion of long-time neighbours the Bartell family.

“Fay was dedicated to making everyone else’s life better and to providing a safe place for anyone who needed it,” Mr Gleave said.

“She wouldn’t have been able to achieve all this without the support of my grandfather, Des. We are

honoured to accept this gesture of the laneway being named after Fay and thank all the neighbours and community members for their support of our family.”

St John Ambulance volunteer and paramedic Sally Quinn said everyone loved ‘Mother Fay’ dearly.

“St John Ambulance volunteers are often forgotten but they do a fantastic job,” she said.

“After the 2017 flood Fay was helping at the evacuation centre, she would be there the whole day at the Murwillumbah Show, sporting events, festivals – at so many events she was there to offer first aid to those in need. She inspired generations of ambulance officers and trained nurses; the list goes on.”

Have your say Add your voice to decision making in the Tweed

Calling for community input on a plan to increase supply of affordable housing

Right now across the Tweed 47% of rental households are experiencing rental stress which is when residents pay over 30% of their household income. Increasing the supply of affordable housing and housing diversity in the right places is a top priority for Council. This is why we are developing an Affordable Housing Strategy for the Tweed. The strategy outlines how Council will support and increase the capacity of other housing providers and developers to build new affordable housing.

Have your say

Community feedback is crucial in refining a final Affordable Housing Strategy. You can make a submission before 4pm, 7 August 2024 in one of the following ways:

• online at yoursaytweed/affordablehousing

• email to tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Subject: Draft affordable houseing strategy

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

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

All submissions, including postal or in person, must be received before 4 pm, 7 August and must include your full name and address and contact details. Please indicate if you do not give permission for it to be included in the final report to Council.

This notice is in accordance with the provisions of section 31(2) of the Local Government Act 1993

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.

Help us make decisions with you Register at yoursaytweed.com.au

Amended development proposal for public comment

The following Section 4.55 application has been received by the Tweed Shire Council and may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au for a period of fourteen (14) days from Wednesday 26 June 2024 to Wednesday 10 July 2024.

The proposal is not designated development and the Tweed Shire Council is the consent authority.

and

Proposed Modification

Deletion of Condition 27 in relation to the installation of noise barriers

Any person may, during the period specified above, make a submission in writing to Council in relation to the amended development application. Where a submission is in the form of an objection, then the grounds of objection are required to be specified. Any person may, during the above period, make a written submission to the General Manager of Council. It should also be noted that Council has adopted a policy whereby, on request, any submission including identifying particulars will be made public. Council will give consideration to the ‘Public Interest’ and requests for confidentiality by submitters in determining access to submission letters. However, the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 – GIPA may result in confidential submissions being released to an applicant.

Please note: Requirements regarding Disclosure of Political Gifts and Donations

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

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

Chinderah Community Hub Co-ordinators Kay Redman, Sandy Gilbert and Lyn Hart.

Fay's family pictured with the street sign honouring her legacy.

Kingy aged care vote

By Jo Kennett

TWEED SHIRE councillors voted unanimously on Thursday, June 20, to endorse a staff submission to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) which opposes the proposed state significant development (SSD) application for the Uniting Kingscliff redevelopment.

Uniting say they will continue to work with the DPHI to provide additional information and address the next steps in the planning assessment.

If the project gains SSD status, the assessment for approval is made at the state level rather than at the local council level, therefore bypassing local planning regulations.

Mayor Chris Cherry’s alternate motion, which was passed unanimously, asked that the draft submission requests that the DPHI, “have serious regard for the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) submission dated 13 June”. The council submission will include that “SES do not support increasing the number of the vulnerable people exposed to the significant flood risk”.

It will also include, “SES recommend the current SSD application is amended and investigates ways to reduce the risk to life and consequent additional burden on emergency services”, and that the “SES conclude that proceeding with the application in its current form would increase the number of vulnerable residents exposed to significant flood risks.”

There were a number of other council concerns, including the stormwater outlet being inadequate for the proposed development with no alternative suggested, and the height of the buildings being above the local height limit, with concerns for the amenity and overlooking of neighbours.

Council also stated in its draft submission that there are concerns about the adequacy of the proposed access road.

Uniting NSW.ACT told The Weekly that they were aware of council’s draft submission to the Department of Planning and subsequent vote not to support the Uniting Kingscliff state significant development application in its current

form, based on the points raised in its draft submission.

“Uniting is currently reviewing all the submissions received during the public exhibition period and awaiting a response from the Department of Planning to address next steps in the planning assessment,” a Uniting spokesperson said.

“Upon review of all the material, Uniting will decide how it will respond in the appropriate time frame.

“Uniting Kingscliff’s state significant development application is currently being reviewed by the consent authority, the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.

“Uniting values and encourages open communication with the local communities in which we work.

“We appreciate the time taken by members of the Kingscliff community to express their thoughts and opinions on the Kingscliff redevelopment.

“We will continue to work closely with the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure to provide any additional information required as the project moves through the planning process to a determination.”

President of the Kingscliff Ratepayers and Progress Association, Peter Newton, said that the “community welcomes the decision of councillors to unanimously endorse the draft council submission to the proposed Uniting Kingscliff redevelopment.”

“We particularly thank Mayor Chris Cherry and Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis for putting the motion to endorse the council submission and also to clearly state that council do not support the redevelopment,” he said.

“We also appreciate that council have highlighted in their submission the quite damning SES report to NSW Planning into the flood risks associated with this development.

“This is a good result for our community and a clear endorsement of the nearly 300 community objections submitted to this gross overdevelopment.

“There is a long way to go with the assessment process, but our community could not have hoped for a better result at this stage.”

The proposed Uniting Kingscliff development

Tweed retail theft blitz

By Jo Kennett

TWENTY-EIGHT people faced legal action following a recent police operation targeting shoplifting and anti-social behaviour at Tweed Heads.

Tweed-Byron Police said they conducted the operation on Tuesday, June 11, and Wednesday, June 12, and were assisted by centre management and security industry partners at various retail outlets in Tweed Heads.

As a result of the operation, 28 people were detained for various offences including shoplifting, anti-social behaviour, and breach of bail.

Of those 28 people, ten were issued court attendance notices, while 18 were issued criminal infringement notices.

“These results reflect the zero-tolerance approach implemented by police and we will continue to pursue those individuals who display anti-social behaviour and commit offences within our shopping centres,” Tweed-Byron Police District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Matt Zimmer said.

“A number of people served with court attendance notices during this operation have their names featured on the local court list this week and are now explaining their actions to family and friends.

“Local retailers and their employees are fed up with being stolen from and being abused. Police will continue to investigate reports of these matters and we will take appropriate action.

“Tweed-Byron Police District will continue to work closely with centre management and our security industry partners to ensure that members of our community can go about their business and feel safe when using our shopping centres and public transport.

“Police will also continue to disseminate images from CCTV through our social media page seeking public assistance to identify those individuals who may be able to assist with ongoing inquiries into retail theft.

“These types of operations will continue and you will see an increased police presence in our shopping centres and public spaces.”

Police conducted a blitz on theft and anti-social behaviour in Tweed Heads

Paid police recruits

By Jo Kennett

THE TWEED-Byron Police District has two new probationary constables who attested as part of Class 362 at the Goulburn Police Academy on Friday, June 21, in a ceremony which saw Inspector Amy Scott honoured for her bravery after the Bondi Junction stabbings.

The 169 student police officers from Class 362 were the first to attest having been fully paid to study as part of their training. A total of 20 were aged in their 30s, three were in their forties, 27 were born overseas and seven were Indigenous. The class comprised of 122 males and 47 female recruits.

“On behalf of the community, I am pleased to be able to welcome our newest police officers to the Tweed.” Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said.

“A career in policing is like no other, it takes a special person, dedication and commitment.”

“Their commitment to fostering a safe and thriving environment is invaluable, and we want each and every officer to know that their efforts are deeply appreciated.”

Her Excellency, The Honourable Margaret Beazley, Governor of NSW; Premier of NSW Chris Minns and Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley joined NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb to welcome the recruits, who were deployed this week to police stations across the state for 12 months’ on-thejob training as they study by distance education with Charles Sturt University.

The attestation parade also honoured recipients of awards, including NSW Police Inspector Amy Scott, who was recognised for her brave actions at Bondi Junction on Saturday, April 13. Inspector Scott received a Commissioner’s Valour Award, for displaying exceptional bravery in a life-threatening situation.

Inspector Amy Scott, Governor Margaret Beazley and Commissioner Karen Webb

Financial Advice

Willowhite

Parking relief

By Jonathon Howard

PARKING RANGERS have been directed to return to their “usual vigilance” to monitor parking across the Murwillumbah CBD this week, following the welcome news that 72 extra car spaces were re-opened at the multi-level carpark on Tuesday, June 25.

Tweed Shire Council’s director of sustainable communities and environment Naomi Searle said local businesses had requested the parking rangers hit the streets once more to ensure parking compliance.

Parking was thrown into chaos across Murwillumbah after a Toyota HiLux was found on fire inside the multi-level carpark in late December 2023, rendering the car park unsafe until now.

Council’s parks and active communities manager Murray Smith said council was eager to open the car park but needed to follow the insurance process.

“The fire caused some damage, but we believe it’s repairable and we need more information from the insurers’ engineers first, who we are meeting with this Friday to get an update,” he said.

“It’s going to be a challenging issue and we will know more with regards the affected areas after this meeting.”

Council opened an extra 72 parking spaces in the multi-level carpark on Queen Street including the two disabled carparks.

The parking relief is an interim measure while council awaits repairs to the fire-damaged facility.

“Water barriers are being put in place to direct vehicles via a ring-road system through the carpark,” Ms Searle said.

“Motorists will be asked to take note of the signage in place and drive with extra care.

“Repairs to tactiles in the stairwells have been

A partnership made for business

completed and the area cleaned, signage has been printed and fences for traffic and pedestrian exclusion zones erected.”

Additional parking came after local businesses called on Mayor Chris Cherry to raise a notice of motion work towards alleviating the parking pain following the fire.

The Local Traffic Committee, at their most recent meeting in June, has agreed to investigate changes to existing taxi zones on Queen Street, remove time-limited parking in Knox Park and reduce short-term parking in Tumbulgum Road.

Ms Searle wanted readers to note that Council cannot cancel or withdraw a penalty notice once it has been issued and does not handle payments or disputes for parking fines after issue.

“If a member of the public believes a penalty notice has been issued in error, or wants to ask for leniency, they should contact Revenue NSW,” she said.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Do you believe council parking rangers should be vigilant with parking in Murwillumbah? Send your thoughts and letters via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

Council parks and active communities manager Murray Smith with Mayor Chris Cherry

By Jonathon Howard

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) has the potential to speed up repetitive tasks and streamline some Tweed Shire Council services, but it needs to be used with a degree of caution, according to council.

The rapidly advancing technology was discussed during council’s monthly meeting on Thursday, June 20, where Cr James Owen raised a question on notice regarding council’s use of AI.

Councillor Owen asked whether council has investigated AI to improve service delivery, communications and customer service.

In response, Council’s Director of Corporate Services, Warren van Wyk, highlighted the current and prospective applications of AI, as well as its potential pitfalls.

He pointed out that council already employs AI within various day-to-day tools, particularly within the Microsoft suite, which helps streamline work processes and tasks.

“The public can already use AI to seek a range of council information from our websites and communication information,” the director said.

“Our contact centre telephony solution utilises AI to automate caller IDs.

“Moving forward, it also provides options for us to improve direct customer experiences through SMS interactions and other AI options when on a live call with a customer.”

implications.

But it’s not all positive for AI technology and Mr van Wyk said both the benefits and risks are well summarised in the NSW Government’s AI Strategy.

“AI provides us with significant potential to transform society and the economy...However, because of the speed of technological evolution, the need to meet the highest privacy standards and to address ethical considerations, AI also presents new challenges...AI needs to be developed responsibly and with clear outcomes focus so that the community has trust that the technology is being used appropriately, that any unintended consequences are avoided or remedied quickly and effectively,” the strategy reads.

“With the growing number of data breaches and other risks in this space, we are adopting a good governance approach to ensure council meets its obligations to protect our customer data and privacy,” Mr van Wyk said.

The director outlined some potential uses of AI, including speeding up repetitive tasks, automated triaging of enquiries, process improvement and streamlining the preparation of some communications.

“Our focus at present remains on implementing the new TechnologyOne cloud-based ERP, which incorporates some AI functionality of the solutions such as many new customer service solutions, invoice recognition, and a new customer portal to support self-service,” he said.

Sumbercorp Ortho Support Mattress

past 120 years.”

Ms Lea said the hospital continues to play an important role in providing healthcare to the community following the recent opening of the new Tweed Valley Hospital (TVH) in Cudgen.

Murwillumbah District Hospital provides key services, including emergency department, medical inpatient care, palliative care, chemotherapy, renal dialysis, midwifery group practice, antenatal care and birth centre, low complexity day surgery services and a range of outpatient services.

The hospital also continues as the dedicated location for rehabilitation services.

Ms Lea thanked staff for their support and dedication to providing excellent patient care, particularly during the hospital’s recent transition to focus on day surgery at the site.

“I want to thank our current and past staff for their commitment to our patients, which is at the heart of everything we do,” Ms Lea said.

“Health services need to change and adapt to be able to respond to the needs of local communities, developments in technology and medical treatments, and changing models of care.

“Our staff have responded to these changes well, and they should be very proud of the highquality care they deliver every day.”

In the first quarter of 2024, MDH had 5,419 ED attendances, the most ever on record, and an increase of 18.4 per cent compared with the same quarter in 2023.

The Murwillumbah Hospital we know today opened in 1939

Budd & Piper

Solicitors and Conveyancers

William Campbell Solicitor Serving

Electrifying vote is approved by majority

By Jonathon Howard

COUNCILLOR NOLA Firth has successfully led a motion to convert Tweed Shire Council-owned facilities using gas for heating and cooking to electricity when they reach the end

16 Beryl Street Tweed Heads N.S.W 2485 (07) 5536 2144 www.buddpiper.com.au campbell@buddpiper.com.au

The vote, during council’s meeting on Thursday, June 20, resulted in a four-to-three split, with several councillors noting the motion was

In fact, council’s report stated its gas usage is “relatively low”and emissions from gas are

“The main gas user is the crematorium, which equates to less than 0.25 per cent

heating method for its intended use.”

Cr Firth said the aim of the motion was to ensure climate targets are reached only when the facilities need to be replaced at end of life.

“Electrification is now being undertaken across Australia,” Cr Firth said.

“It sets up lower emissions for the future and electricity will soon be cheaper than gas.”

Cr Firth said she understands many chefs prefer to cook with gas, but she used an example of a major restaurant successfully using induction.

Both Cr James Owen and Cr Rhiannon Brinsmead voted against the motion, alongside Cr Warren Polglase.

Cr Brinsmead and Owen said they supported the staff recommendation for a cost-benefit analysis first.

Council’s report noted that some of the kitchen facilities are used on a commercial basis, “where gas is the preferred/required heating

“Based on the above, officers do not support this notice of motion and still recommend that a cost-benefit analysis be undertaken for each asset at the end of life to determine the best

Cr Brinsmead said she would not support the motion.

“I can see where you are going with this. But I believe each asset should be assessed at end of life,” she said, supporting the staff recommendation.

Cr Owen said he also supported the staff on this one and said a cost benefit analysis is needed.

Mayor Chris Cherry spoke in support of the motion.

“I understand the decisions by staff, but I do believe it’s time to transition away from gas. It’s a matter of moving across to this type of technology,” she said.

In her final response, Cr Firth said the policy within council is to change to renewable energy.

“I think we need to be setting an example to the community,” she said.

Murwillumbah Mustangs

Appeal for rescue chopper donations

THE WESTPAC Rescue Helicopter Service’s annual ‘End of Financial Year Appeal’ is nearing its end, and despite economic challenges, community generosity continues to play a crucial role in “saving lives together.” Our saviour in the sky was launched in 1975 and continues to operate from Lismore, Tamworth and Belmont, averaging four missions per day and flying more than 1,500 missions annually across Northern NSW. This year’s appeal is highlighted by the story of baby Henry, whose life was saved thanks to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service and community support. Henry was born in June 2023 with

severe medical issues, including a congenital diaphragmatic hernia and a narrowed aorta.

After requiring 17 minutes of CPR at birth, he urgently needed transport to Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney.

The helicopter’s critical care medical team, equipped with advanced medical equipment, safely transferred Henry, enabling him to undergo life-saving surgeries.

“We were told Henry wouldn’t make it to Westmead in an ambulance, and to hear he was going to be airlifted brought nothing but tears of hope,” said Henry’s parents, Michelle and Nick.

After three months of specialist care, Henry went home for the first time.

“We’re so grateful for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter’s services and their role in saving our son’s life,” Michelle said.

Michelle and Nick believe sharing Henry’s story has encouraged public donations for this year’s appeal.

“Sharing Henry’s story has highlighted how vital this service is and has motivated people to donate, making a difference in the lives of many like Henry,” Michelle said.

To make a tax-deductible donation before June 30, visit www.rescuehelicopter.com.au/appeal.

Baby Henry Carroll and family are forever grateful to the Westpac Rescue chopper

HICAPS Available TWEED COAST DENTURE STUDIO

Small school goes big

By Jonathon Howard

A NEW high school has opened in Murwillumbah and is offering progressive alternatives to standardised learning.

Enrolments are open for Year 8 and 9 at The Small School in Murwillumbah, which Principal Carla Wilson says is offering “a new way of doing senior secondary school in our region”.

Established as a primary school in 2019, and gradually expanding into secondary since 2022, The Small School is an independent, progressive school that’s built around the philosophy of democratic education, which fosters creative thinking and independent learning.

“Education is and should be changing,” Ms Wilson said.

“We are providing young people with an alternative to high-stress, standardised testing, which has become the dominant feature in the secondary years of schooling.”

“Ultimately, that approach doesn’t reflect who young people are, what they want, and what the world around them needs.

“We want to prepare young people to enter the world with confidence in their abilities as learners, and as creative and critical thinkers

who have agency, and who are prepared and hopeful about engaging with a rapidly changing world.”

Ms Wilson said the senior school curriculum offered tailored, personalised learning pathways and a graduation portfolio, which supports students to transition to university, TAFE, employment or entrepreneurship.

“Our democratic learning environment is structured, carefully held, and offers strong adult leadership, trust and guidance,” she said.

“Our staff have a genuine interest in the rights of young people to be seen and respected for who they are and how they learn. Young people are considered worthy participants in their learning environment.”

Ms Wilson said just as staff were respectful, kind and non-judgemental, the same high standards were expected of students.

“Our school is perfect for sparky, engaged young people who want to learn about their passion in a learning environment that respects who they are, as well as how and what they want to learn.”

For more information, visit thesmallschool. org.au or phone (02) 6672 1018.

BITUMEN

At Gourmet Meals, we understand the unique nutritional needs of seniors and the importance of providing them with balanced and nourishing meals. Our expert chefs collaborate to create menus catering to seniors’ dietary needs. We focus on using ingredients packed with essential nutrients, ensuring that every meal is not only delicious but also highly nutritious and snap-frozen to maintain its nutritional value.

Our portion-controlled meals provide seniors with the right calories and nutrients they need without

overwhelming their appetites. We offer a variety of meals that cater to different dietary restrictions and preferences, including gluten-free, low sugar, low and reduced fat and low-sodium options, plus many more. This ensures seniors with specific nutritional needs can still enjoy flavourful and satisfying meals while maintaining their health.

In addition to providing nutritious meals, Gourmet Meals also considers the challenges that seniors may face in preparing and cooking their food. Many seniors may have limited mobility or difficulty with meal preparation,

Stamp & Grind new owners

By Jonathon Howard

THE ICONIC Stamp & Grind/Condong Post Office will welcome passionate new owners Jasen Pankhurst and Yazmeen Spears from Monday, July 1, taking over from Geoff Newman.

The couple are eager to put their stamp on the business and develop the good work done by Geoff over the past three years and eight months.

“It’s great to be handing the business over to such a passionate local couple with great business knowledge,” Geoff told The Weekly.

“I’m taking a break and very pleased the business is in good hands. I’d like to thank the community for their ongoing support and look forward to being a customer.”

Jasen has extensive knowledge in business as a qualified accountant and is passionate about sustainability.

“My company XAS has a new home at Stamp & Grind and we’re eager to compliment the great work already done by Geoff,” he said. Jasen is keen to expand the business and could

which can further contribute to malnutrition. Our meals are delivered directly to their doorstep, packed into the freezer if required, and ready to heat and eat, making it convenient and effortless for seniors to enjoy a wellbalanced meal. Gourmet Meals have no lock in contracts or subscriptions, you simply order the meals when you require.

Why not check out our menu online at www.gourmetmeals.com.au or call our office on 1300 112 112 to have a hard copy posted out to you.

soon offer seven-day trading.

“All the staff have been a pleasure to work with and we’re keeping them all employed,” he said.

“We would like to invite everyone to come down to Stamp & Grind and say hello, get some great food and drinks, do your postage and printing with us and have a delicious coffee while you wait.”

Yazmeen has extensive experience in international tourism and is eager to engage with locals and rail trail visitors.

“Expect some new signage coming soon for the business and we’re really excited to be serving the community at Stamp & Grind,” she said.

“There’s some exciting plans in the works, including tours of the Northern Rivers and projects on the horizon, but for now we want to thank Geoff for his amazing work and encourage the community to come and say hello.”

Stamp & Grind will be offering catering for events and markets and are encouraging residents to contact the store for more information.

The couple also wanted to thank Sunshine Sugar’s Condong mill for their ongoing support.

HOME DELIVERY OF READY MADE MEALS

New Customers use the code word INTRO and receive a FREE MEAL up to the value of $11.40 *Minimum order applies, one per customer

• Large gluten free variety

• Wholesome and nutritious

• Convenient ready-made frozen meals

• Australian owned and operated

• Tastes like home cooking

• Home delivered or available in stores

• Approved HCP provider

• NDIS registered provider

New owners Jasen Pankhurst and Yazmeen Spears (left) with outgoing owner Geoff Newham and regular customers Graeme Hunt and Marcel Cheatle

Awards night at M|Arts

By Jonathon Howard

M|ARTS IN the Murwillumbah CBD is the official location for the Victory Organisation Group Tweed Business Awards taking place on Friday, August 16.

Business Murwillumbah president Rebecca Whan said the team were delighted to bring the awards back to the heart of the Tweed at M|Arts.

“We have received more than 120 entries into the awards pool this year, which is a great result,” she said.

“The portal for nominations is now closed and judging will start soon.”

Ms Whan is encouraging business owners to book their table for the gala event to avoid

“We want businesses to book now so they can celebrate another great year of local commerce,” she said. Tickets are $100 per person and includes a Husk cocktail on arrival, two complimentary M|Arts Bar drinks, tapas-style dishes served throughout the night by culinary gem Bistro Livi.

Entertainment on the night will include The Hoodlum Ballet, singer and performer Renee Simone, catering by the fabulous Bistro Livi, floral installations by Donna Stain, as well as a photo booth, red carpet and much more.

“We are capping the event at 300 attendees, so there’s a need to book early to avoid disappointment,” Ms Whan said.

For questions please email: info@ businessmurwillumbah.com.au

Join the business awards celebrations at M|Arts in August tickets are on sale now

Arts open weekend

WHAT’S HAPPENING:

Our lease at Prospero Street, South Murwillumbah is ending. Cats from Prospero Street will now be relocated to Unit 17/39-41 Corporation Circuit, Tweed Heads South.

ADOPTION INFORMATION:

After Sunday, June 30, you can adopt cats from Murwillumbah or Tweed via our online expression of interest. Cat viewing is available in Murwillumbah by appointment only. View cats from Monday to Saturday from 10am to 3pm at Unit 17/39-41 Corporation Circuit, Tweed Heads South.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES:

Purchase Royal Canin, OzPet Litter and more at our Tweed Heads South outlet. Desexing vouchers, memberships and donations are available online or in-person at the Tweed Heads South outlet.

THANK YOU:

Thanks to Murwillumbah community, adopters and volunteers! This is a temporary closure and we will re-open locally at Lundberg Drive in South Murwillumbah.

By Jonathon Howard

CONTACT US:

TWEED UNLIMITED Arts is hosting a special mid-year open weekend at their headquarters at 154 Pioneer Parade in Banora Point.

Phone ahead on (07) 5524 8590 from 10am to 4pm. We’re here to help with rescues and surrenders locally.

The special fundraiser will collect money for Tweed Palliative Support and Wedgetail Retreat this year and will include a range of activities for the whole family.

“We would love to invite the community along to experience Tweed Unlimited Arts (TUA) and it’s great cause in 2024,” TUA president Louise Hilson said.

The event will feature art demonstrations, wheel throwing demonstrations, a raffle, spinning and weaving demonstrations, and much more.

“We’re also having a cook-up in the kitchen and all sales are appreciated and donated,”

Louise said.

With continuous support from Tweed Shire Council, TUA are in their 53rd year of bringing fabulous arts, crafts and pottery to the Tweed Shire and encouraging community engagement in the arts.

TUA currently has 200 members spread over 12 groups.

“We have shared the grounds with another deserving group — the SES — since the 1980s,” Louise said.

“The pottery theme this time is ‘Birds and Bees’ with a garden display.”

The event will serve Devonshire teas and beautiful soup lunches available both Saturday and Sunday.

The alpacas will also be in attendance.

For more information, or to get involved with TUA, please email: louhil2018@gmail.com

Visit the wonderful team at Tweed Unlimited Arts this weekend at Banora Point

Tweed Shire’s

Top Tradies

WHEN YOU use one of The Weekly’s Top Tradies and Services (see here and pages 4245) you know you are booking a trusted local operator who is qualified, has an outstanding local reputation and can offer competitive quotes. These days the Internet is flooded with information that can make a simple task of booking a local tradesperson extermely complicated. By using The Weekly’s

Trades and Services you know you are dealing with a tradie that understands the local area, has a track record and solid qualifications.

Remember, local tradespeople provide lasting employment, understand the local conditions and are just around the corner when you need them.

So, the next time you pick up the phone to call on a tradie, think local and reach for

and our future.

Cooly Rocks On – nostalgia fest a huge success

TENS OF THOUSANDS of residents and visitors attended this year’s Cooly Rocks On at Coolangatta on June 5-9.

In fact crowds have once again topped out at 160,000 across the five days making Cooly Rocks On the largest nostalgic festival in Australia. This year saw USA’s Dwight Icenhower and UK’s Louis Brown Taking Care of Business, headlining in the Elvis Precinct, both widely considered among the best Elvis Tribute Artists in the world.

Travelling all the way from Japan, Toki Toyokazu entered and won the coveted Cooly Rocks On Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist (UETA) Contest and will go on to represent the festival at Elvis Week in USA later this year. The UETA contest is one of only two in Australia and a handful throughout the world sanctioned by Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Joining the international and na -

tional headliners on the big stage was 15-year-old rising star Charlie Gaylard.

“Performing at Cooly Rocks On has been a dream. I only started performing in January and I never thought I’d perform here, to be able to say that I played alongside Louis Brown and Dwight Icenhower is unbelievable,” said Charlie Gaylard, Elvis Tribute Artist.

The annual Show ‘N’ Shine which saw more than 900 cars on display, live music, dancing and festival favourite, the Saturday Night Car Cruise.

The much-loved cruise saw thousands lining the streets of Coolangatta to witness the convoy of classics, hot rods, muscle cars and more.

“Cooly Rocks On just keeps on growing,” said Mark Duckworth, Festival Director.

“It’s about simpler times and sim pler memories, we all want to em brace what it was like in the 1950s

and 60s along the coastline of the Gold Coast and that’s what this festival does, it just transports you back to a beautiful time.”

As the festival continues to grow so has its offering and appeal. A vibrant, new generation of fans deeply passionate about the Kustom culture are quickly becoming part of the fabric of the festival, breathing youthful energy into the festival’s charm.

“I’m glad that rockabilly still lives on, the music, the clothes, the vibe, everything it’s awesome!” said a Festival Attendee.

Cooly Rocks On Pin-Up Pageant ‘Rockabilly Winner’ and classic car owner Reckless Penny says she spent 20 years talking herself out of doing

thought why not do the Cooly Rocks On Pin-Up Pageant, it is the absolute top tier pin-up pageant to do so why not give it a crack. I am a car enthusiast, so entering the Pin-Up Pageant and having my car here has felt so unbelievable,” said Reckless Penny, Pin-Up Pageant ‘Rockabilly Winner’.

“I come to Cooly Rocks On every year, it is my favourite weekend of the year. It has everything you want in a weekend; time with friends, hanging out, bands, beautiful fashion, the cars, it is the best weekend of my year,” said Reckless Penny.

Taking to the stage was modern practitioner of rockabilly Pat Capocci, Teddy Boy group The Lincolns, rockabilly singer-songwriter and pinup girl Shelley Minson, Ella Fontaine & the Sugarshakers and many more.

As the beachside destination of Coolangatta came to life across five action-packed days and continues to attract diverse audiences, Cooly

Rocks On promises to remain a cornerstone of the Gold Coast’s vibrant festival scene for years to come. With around 60% of attendees coming from outside the Gold Coast the now renowned festival generates more than $18M for the local economy.

This year’s festival was delivered with thanks to the 2024 Sponsor Family: City of Gold Coast, Tourism and Events Queensland, Gold Coast Airport, Shannons Insurance, Indian Motorcycle, Yugambeh Region Aboriginal Corporation Alliance (YRACA), EVENTelec, Clean Vibes, Griffith University, Triple M Gold 92.5 and Official Charity Partner MND and Me Foundation.

Cooly Rocks On is produced by Experience Gold Coast and supported by the Queensland Government, via Tourism and Events Queensland.

Photographs: Bianca Holderness, Elly Boyd, Mackenzie Sweetnam, Ashleigh Wilson

“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:

Lynbrook Park

42 Olive Road, Lynbrook

Our Local Residences:

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

TO OUR dear followers, readers and food lovers,

We hope that you are all well and not too chilly in this cooler spell – the great thing this means that winter veggies are more abundant!

First, we want to celebrate two of our stalls who back in May we celebrated their stallholder anniversaries with the market. First, Tallogum Berries who have been with the market since 2017 (7 years) and Mad Mountain who have been with the market since 2018 (6 years). Thank you to these stalls for their commitment, contribution and dedication to the market over the years. It is also that time again where school holidays start. First, we have Queensland school holidays which commenced on 22 June and will end on 7 July and then we have New South Wales starting their school holidays commencing on 8 July to 22 July. Over the school holidays we are hoping to have Anna

back from the Creative Art Studio to do her art table and of course facepainting! Watch this space!

In sad news, we say farewell and good luck to the lovely Katerina from Byron Fermentary, who has now left the market. In the nearly two years since Katerina started at the market she has brought a great new vibe to the market, which will be missed.

As you know Katerina’s product is unique – that being kimchi, kraut, fermented miso, salts and fermented drinks including kvass and amazake. What we have all learnt from Katerina in recent times is her passion for zero waste, which is shown in her product line as one product’s waste creates her next product. How amazing! On behalf of everyone at the market we wish Katerina all the best for the future. We hope you enjoy this article and look forward to seeing you at the market this month again for your fresh, local and seasonal produce.

With love and gratitude, Claire

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

In more positive news, you may have noticed that Dunav Smallgoods is back at the market. You will find Jacob with his salamis, sausages, bacon, jerky and all sorts of other delicious meats over next to Greg’s Hot Smoked.

In the last month we have seen Liz from Purus Blue Lotus return to the market with her blue lotus flowers, plants and also new-season jonquils. Liz had to take a small break from the market while in the low season! Welcome back to Liz it’s lovely to see her return! Liz is back in her usual spot. As you will have all noticed, our Johny’s Garden stall had a small break over the more difficult summer months and returned to the market a couple of months ago. It has been great to see Toby back with all his fresh, local and seasonal – and also organic produce over at Johny’s Garden. It has also been great to see Toby’s stall flourish as the cooler months arrive and produce is more abundant. Toby is also an advocate for first generation farmers and tells us that the highlight of his week is coming along to the Murwillumbah Farmers’ Market to sell his

produce – this is a highlight for us too! Toby has a range of organic greens and other veggies like sweet potatoes and also beetroot. Over here at the market we are eagerly watching Toby’s farming journey – watch this space! We also have a new stall joining us on a trial basis – Hug Doug & Co. The lovely ladies behind Hug & Doug Co. are Kerry and Bridget and they love dogs. Two of their dogs have significant health issues, one is a diabetic, and the other has major skin issues, both requiring medications and diet to keep their conditions under control. Through this journey of health conditions, has led them down the path of creating their own dog treats. They learnt shop bought treats have sugar, salt and other preservatives in them, all which affected their pets’ medical issues. All of their treats are dehydrated for up to 72 hours with no preservatives or sugar and none of the nasty stuff! Their biscuits are made with minimum of 50%

meat and based on either rice or oat flours, they also have 100% protein treats including camel liver, venison liver, kangaroo liver, duck liver, chicken liver, goat liver, crocodile tails and feet/paws and with longer lasting treats including beef paddywack and bully sticks. You will find Kerry and Bridget under the shed next to Caldera

When and where?

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

Where: Murwillumbah

Showground

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

Market Contact Details

Market Manager: Claire Strodder

Email: manager@murwillumbahfarmersmarket.com.au

Mobile: 0415 328 672

Tyalgum music fest

By Madeleine Murray

TICKETS ARE now on sale for this year’s Tyalgum Music Festival (TMF), held from September 13–15 in the historic Tyalgum Community Hall.

Audiences are in for a treat with a fabulous line-up of musicians presenting eight concerts over the weekend. Executive Director Katharine Willison is especially excited about the opening Friday night concert.

“This will be the first time the TMF has staged an opera and we are looking forward to welcoming Voxalis Opera and their production of Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel,” Katharine told The Weekly. “With the addition of a reduced orchestra we are bringing the opera experience to our wonderful Tyalgum festival audience.”

Saturday opens with a song cycle called Mythical Creatures by Paul Kopetz with soprano Leanne Keneally and baritone Leon Warnock. Tyalgum Public School has been using Kopetz’s music as inspiration and has been busy painting and writing about mermaids, leprechauns and yetis in preparation.

Kristian Winther and Daniel De Borah present a lunchtime recital of glorious violin and

piano recitals during Saturday lunchtime. From 5pm–6.15pm, the Orava Quartet join forces with The Limpinwood Ensemble wind players to perform Françaix’s magical arrangement of Mozart’s much-loved Quintet for Piano and Winds.

Enjoy a relaxed Saturday evening of jazz with the Steve Newcomb Trio featuring Etienne Steven in the Tyalgum Jazz Cafe. Sit at tables of four, share a platter and soak up the sounds.

The best of the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University will perform on Sunday morning followed by the LA Philharmonic Wind Quintet bringing a little West Side Story to Tyalgum on their 2024 Australian Tour.

The Queensland Symphony’s Orchestra’s newly-appointed harpist brings the festival to a close with Ravel’s mesmerising Introduction and Allegro and Debussy’s Trio for Flute, Viola and Harp.

This is a very special weekend with a range of classical music, opera, jazz, song cycles, wind quintet and more, all in a picturesque little village in the Tweed Shire.

The Tyalgum Music Festival runs from Friday, September 13 to Sunday, September 15. For more information and booking link, go to tyalgumfestival.com.au

Golden Wattle visits

By Jonathon Howard

SERVICES AUSTRALIA’S Mobile Service Centre ‘Golden Wattle’ is coming to the Tweed next month.

The mobile service will offer locals easy access to Centrelink, Medicare, National Disability Insurance Scheme and Department of Veterans’ Affairs services.

Golden Wattle will visit Crabbes Creek on Monday, July 8, opposite the general store, Crabbes Creek Road, 9am to 4pm.

It will then travel to Burringbar on Tuesday, July 9, near Masterton Park, Broadway, from 9am to 4pm.

It will be in Pottsville on Wednesday, July 10, adjacent to the community market park, Phillip

Street from 9am to 4pm.

Lastly, it will travel to Tumbulgum on Thursday, July 11, opposite the tavern, Riverside Drive from 9am to 3pm.

Mobile Services Centres are 20 tonne trucks operated by staff from Services Australia, providing regional and rural Australians with friendly face-to-face service and tailored support.

Staff on board this trip can help with Centrelink claims, Medicare registrations, and accessing online services. Information about National Disability Insurance Scheme and Department of Veterans’ Affairs programs and support services will also be available. For more information, go to servicesaustralia. gov.au/mobileoffice

2 Artists Unleashed

1/7/24 TO 12/7/24 CLOSED ON THE

Where creativity roams free with a collection of Acrylic images, Wall Jewellery, and Shell Art Hours 8:30-4:30

Performances include Voxalis Opera (Hansel & Gretel), Emily Grainger from the QSO and The Steve Newcomb Trio with Etienne Steven.

Community art picnic

By Madeleine Murray

ONE OF the best events of the year is coming up on Sunday, June 30. The Tweed Regional Gallery will host its annual picnic on the gentle slope overlooking the glistening curves of the mighty Tweed and the Limousin cattle grazing the bright green grass below.

Artists come from all over the Northern Rivers to soak in the inspiration of this idyllic spot.

Others come just to watch painters work, have a picnic, enjoy the live music and make new friends. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.

Artists of all skill levels are invited to bring their own materials to work en plein air (French for painting outdoors), while taking in some music, with fine food and free activities for children on offer.

“The gallery is renowned for its spectacular views to Wollumbin and the picnic is a wonderful opportunity to take time to enjoy these views out on the gallery lawn while soaking up the winter sun,” gallery director Ingrid Hedgcock told The Weekly.

“This is the sixth annual community picnic and paint out and it has become a popular day on our calendar, embraced by art lovers of all ages.

“It offers a magical opportunity to slow down and spend time with friends and family — people can enjoy sketching, painting, photography,

reading, eating, chatting. It’s a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon.”

Guest artist Monica Rohan will be on hand to mentor artists and chat with participants who can also enjoy watching her work in response to the stunning landscape. Her work is on show inside the gallery in exhibitions A Delicate Terrain and Margaret Olley from the Collection. Children are invited to take part in fun creative activities led by local illustrator Leith Walton from Nurtured Creations.

Relax in the beautiful surroundings and experience live music from Felicity Lawless and Phil Howell. Bring your own picnic or delight in the delicious food options available for purchase in the picnic grounds from Apex Dining.

Admission is free — just turn up and nestle into a wonderful day of art and community connection.

Artists, be prepared to share your experiences with the public and spruik your work — sales and commissions are always possible.

For artists used to working alone in a secluded studio, this is a chance to show off your work, talk art and meet other creatives.

The annual Community Picnic & Artist Paint Out is from 2pm–5pm on Sunday, June 30, on the Tweed Regional Gallery grounds, Tweed Valley Way, Murwillumbah. Bring art supplies and a picnic, or buy food from Apex Dining outside. Free. No bookings required.

Love of nature an inspiration

By Jo Kennett

HER LOVE of nature is the inspiration for Murwillumbah artist Elodie Cazes, who paints by holding the brush in her mouth.

The painting entitled ‘Weeli Wolli Creek’ will be featured on a greeting card which is included among the products being sold throughout Australia by the Mouth and Foot Paintings Artists (MFPA), an international art group that has 850 members in 84 countries throughout the world.

“It’s always nice to have one of my paintings reproduced as a card, this one was painted from a photograph of Weeli Wolli Creek in Western Australia,” said Elodie.

“I enjoy painting nature and particularly beautiful Australian landscapes. I’ve been lucky enough to visit many parts of the world and enjoy photographing scenes to paint later. Flowers and birds are also very inspirational.”

The selection of the pic tures for the mid-year range is made by a panel of European experts and is hot competition as the products this year include paintings by only one Australian artist.

Originally from France, Elodie lived with her family in New Zealand for 15 years, where she suffered an accident diving head-first into a shallow pond when she was 12 years old. Her spinal injury resulted in paralysed

limbs. During her stay at the hospital, she learned to paint with a brush in her mouth as part of a therapy program.

As a child, she always enjoyed drawing, making painting an ideal therapy for her. She was encouraged and inspired by several New Zealand members of MFPA including Kevin Griffiths and Irene Bernie. Elodie and her family returned to France after 15 years in NZ, and more recently emigrated to Australia, settling in Murwillumbah.

“Northern NSW is an artist’s paradise with beautiful nature and peaceful locations. It’s also close enough to health facilities,” Elodie said.

The Mouth and Foot Painting Artists gain their income through the sale of products illustrated with their paintings, and although this started with Christmas cards, today it includes a wide list ranging from special occasion cards, jigsaws, tea sets, address books, calendars, placemats, Christmas gift tags and wrapping paper.

Founded in 1956 by a group of European artists, the MFPA is a self-help organisation that gives people with disabilities the opportunity to fulfill their creative ambitions while still maintaining financial independence by selectively selling their artworks.

The MFPA was established in Australia in 1971. To become a student member an artist must qualify by painting using a brush held in either their mouth or foot, having lost the use of their hands through an illness or accident. Student members receive scholarships for art supplies and tuition.

The Magic of the Mundane

By Julia Collingwood

ACCLAIMED INDIE ROCK duo Mt Warning is set to enchant audiences with a captivating musical performance at The Citadel in Murwillumbah for one night only on Saturday, June 29.

The Magic of the Mundane is presented by Mikey Bee on vocals/guitar and Elodie Crowe (pictured) on Wurlitzer/vocals, joined by accomplished cellist Tara Lee Byrne anchoring the performance.

This seamless fusion of music, lo-fi dance, and physical theatre tells a story about human creativity and the magical yet mundane moments of life.

It follows the smash hit of the eponymous theatre show in Byron last October and fulfills a dream of Mikey and Elodie’s to play The Citadel after discovering this incredible venue while touring the area last year.

Mikey Bryant AKA producer/songwriter Mt Warning set out to find the joy in making music again after a considerable time avoiding creativity and life in general.

Elodie Crowe is a singer-songwriter, musician, vocal director and actor. She spent years recording and touring the world as part of the indie-pop band Tigertown. As Mikey was finalising his album, he invited Elodie to sing harmonies and they began playing shows together under the Mt

Warning name. Singing life into the tracks and dragging the vintage piano around the area to shows, they discovered their creative chemistry together. Between pub shows and festivals the friends were also part of the team that created and performed Byron theatre sensation New Blood The Musical.

The gig-cum-theatre show is a profound musical journey, breathing life into the heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies from Mt Warning’s uplifting albums Tender [A] and Hooks [B].

“This is a show about finding the joy in music,” Mikey Bee told The Weekly. “It’s our hope the audience will leave inspired to try their hand at that niggling creative outlet they may be really wanting to do, but haven’t yet found the time. Now is the time, just let it happen!”

See The Magic of the Mundane at 7pm on Saturday, June 29, at The Citadel, Queen Street, Murwillumbah. For more information and tickets, visit thecitadel.com.au or themagicofthemundane.com

Elodie Cazes

Weeli Wolli Creek by Elodie Cazes

Denim pants 3 Striped big cat

Cost of something 5 Used to measure lengths

6 Picture taken by a camera 7 European country that created pizza

8 An injury like a cut or bruise

The

that

officially called the what force? 5. How many nuclear power plants are there in the world?

60 years, 2. Uranium atoms, 3. 1942 in Chicago, 4. Strong force, 5. 440,

(7)

(9)

Graveyard (8)

Materialise (6)

Of the sense of touch (7)

Custom (7)

Exciting (8)

Type of brandy (6)

Bursar (9)

Cranes (6) 8 Blood-sucking African fly (6)

Seaweed wrapped rice (5)

Hassock (7)

Empty; use up (5)

Ninepin (7)

Partly open (4)

WORDSEARCH: TWEED AMPHIBIANS

be Reversed or Diagonal

20 Majestic (4)

Going in (8)

25 Keyboard error (4)

26 Prefix meaning water (4)

28 Slides (5)

29 Tests (5) 31 Gas vital to life (6) 32 Rich dessert (6)

36 Adherent of Islam (6)

37 Type of finch (6)

38 Snail dish (8)

canetoad, greentreefrog,

rocketfrog, sedgefrog, wallumfroglet, tuskedfrog, pobblebonk,

TRADES AND SERVICES

ACCORD MAINTENANCE has provided high quality handyman and property maintenance services to homeowners and real estate agents since 2012.

The business owner, Frank, originally set up Accord Maintenance on the Gold Coast, and moved to the Tweed Shire four years ago, preferring the calmer lifestyle here in Murwillumbah. He is eager to offer his services in Murwillumbah, Tweed Heads and surrounding areas.

“I pride myself on doing it right the first time,” Frank said.

“And I find that a bit of extra care and effort put in from the beginning always saves so much time and unnecessary stress for everyone.”

Frank is also a trusted local for real estate agents.

“I think that having had real estate agents trust

me to provide quality work for their clients for more than 12 years, says a lot about who I am and the quality of work that I offer,” he said.

These are just some of the many jobs I do at very reasonable rates:

• Repairing windows and doors

• repairing drywall • general carpentry work

small painting jobs

appliance and TV installations

door handle and lock replacement • leaking taps and toilet repairs

• shelving installations

• fencing and gate repairs

• wall repairs and painting

You can also read one of Frank’s many positive tesitmonials: “I have hired Frank Hellbusch to take care of our property maintenance

jobs over the years and not only does he go out of his way to do an excellent job, he is always friendly and a nice person to deal with.”

Maureen Hill, Real Estate Agent.

“I have experience in furniture making, general woodworking and gardening,” he added “I offer free quotes and also discounts to pensioners.”

If you’ve been putting off getting your repair ‘to do list’ done, why not give Frank a call on 0408 488 776 or email accordmaintenance@gmail.com.

For Sale

First Aid Courses

Northerly aspect, large carport and garden shed, laundry, close to pool and boat ramp Private Sale $160,000 neg. Call Suzie: 0408 909 776 or Ray: 0408 752 976 Jayco Freedom Pop Top, 17 foot, 2001, Anniversary model. Twin

Dig (Alan Charles) Bartlett

17.11.1945 - 19.6.2024

Beloved husband of Suzee (Yvonne Lesley).

Loved father of Craig and Tanya.

Adored pop of Lacey, Samara, Callum and Tom. Great pa of Zac. Rest in Peace Dig. Privately Cremated.

GROENENDAAL Bing

Passed away peacefully on 21st June 2024 at Tweed Valley Hospital, late of Bogangar Aged 87 years.

Dearly loved husband and soulmate of Val (for 70 years), Much loved dad and father-in-law of Steve, Judy & Darren, Proud and loving Pa to all his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral service for Bing to be held at the Tweed Heads Crematorium Chapel, Kirkwood Road Tweed Heads on Friday 28th June 2024 at 11.30am

Tweed Heads Ph: (07) 5599 1500

Maureen Anne Nelson

nee’ Worley

Passed away peacefully on the 24th June 2024, aged 87.

Dearly loved Wife of Joe. Loved Mother and Mother-in-Law of Sandra and Mark; Sharon; Wendy and Garry; Jennifer (dec), Christine and Shane; Angela; David; Kylie and Carl. Cherished Grandmother, Great Grandmother and Great Great Grandmother to many.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Maureen’s Funeral Service to be held at the McGuiness Funerals Chapel, Murwillumbah on Thursday 4th July 11am followed by a private burial at Murwillumbah Lawn Cemetery.

Ph: (02) 6672 2144 Murwillumbah

InLovingmemory

Marie Kathleen McConnell

22nd March 1930 – 24th June 2024

Loved mother and mother-in-law of Peter and Sharyn, Jeffrey (Fred) and Ann. Grandmother of Kate, Elizabeth, Liam (dec), Conrad, Aleisha, Callum and Ramona. Great Grandmother of Isaiah, Brielle, Elijah, Blake, Addison (dec), Makayla, Alec and Adelaide.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Marie’s Requiem Mass which will be held at St Anthony’s Catholic Church, Kingscliff, on Wednesday the 3rd of July at 11am. “Your gentle spirit and boundless love will forever be in our hearts.”

In memory of Peter Samuel Paset

4th July 1960 – 16th June 2024

Remembered with Love. Passed away on 16/06/2024. You will be greatly missed and always on our minds. Susan, Greg, Michael, Mary & loving Uncle of Cooper.

Time to join Mum, Late Eva Paset and your late sister Heidi. Your memory we will always treasure in our hearts, you will stay forever.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Peter’s Memorial Service to be held at Simplicity Funerals, Twin Towns, 17 Florence St Tweed Heads on 5th July 2024 at 2:30 pm.

Last Drinks for DIGGER DIGGER BARTLETT

Passed away 19/ 06/ 24

Friends of Diggers will gather at Tumbulgum Pub. 2.30pm Saturday 06/07/24 for a memorial wake to celebrate Diggers life. - All Welcome -

In Loving Memory of Herbert (Bert) Barker

13.12.1921-17.6.2024

Passed away peacefully in Melbourne surrounded by family. For service details, please visit bethelfunerals.com.au

_It’s with Great sadness, we announce that Noral William Piers-Blundell

passed away peacefully on Saturday June 22nd 2024. Noral was our dearly loved Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Brother & Uncle and he will be dearly missed by his loving family and close friends.

His funeral service will be held on Friday July 5th at 11.30am at Melaleuca Station Memorial Gardens 9394 Tweed Valley Way, Chinderah NSW

Tweed Heads Ph: (07) 5599 1500

Helen Mary Neff 18/06/2024

McGuiness Funerals 02 6672 2144

BARRASS Michael Robin 19/6/2024

Heritage Brothers – Chinderah 07 55991500

PEARSE Julie Ross 17/6/2024

Heritage Brothers – Chinderah 07 55991500

CZORNY Mikael 14/6/2024

Heritage Brothers – Tweed Heads 07 55991500

SMEDLEY Ronald Clive 22/6/2024

Heritage Brothers – Tweed Heads 07 55991500

WAGNER Rosie 16/6/2024

Heritage Brothers – Tweed Heads 07 55991500

RIDOUTT Diana McCay 17/06/2024

Dolphin Funerals 1300 678 443

ANDERSON James Cecil 18/06/2024

Dolphin Funerals 1300 678 443

BANNERMAN Allan Kevin 18/06/2024

Dolphin Funerals

BATTY Eunice Ruth 18/06/2024

BARTLETT Alan Charles (Dig) 19/06/2024

Dolphin

BORDER Russell 20/06/2024

Dolphin Funerals 1300 678 443

FILLA Ilse Frieda Rosa 20/06/2024

Dolphin Funerals

1300 678 443

MUIR Ronald Lee 20/06/2024

Dolphin Funerals

1300 678 443

MULLER Robert Lesley (Bob) 20/06/2024

Dolphin Funerals 1300 678 443

MOTTRAM Edith 22/06/2024

Dolphin Funerals

1300 678 443

WARNER Rex Peter 23/06/2024

Dolphin Funerals

1300 678 443

McGuiness Funerals

Cudgen take down Bilambil in a nail-biter

By Jo Kennett

ALL THREE NRRRL games for Tweed teams went down to the wire with Cudgen hanging on for a win over Bilambil, Murwillumbah taking down Casino and Tweed Coast just going down to Northern United.

Byron is currently on top of the ladder, followed by Ballina, Cudgen, Evans Head, Bilambil and Marist Brothers, with Mustangs moving to eighth and the Raiders in 11th.

Cudgen captain Caleb Ziebell said they knew it was going to be a physical and tough game against the Jets, w ith both teams going set for set at

the start.

“A few penalties we gave away let the Jets march up field and they managed to score two good tries in about ten minutes to go up 10-0,” he said.

“Then we scored two tries with Alec Williams scoring first in the corner and then our fullback Jet Forbes scored not long with a grubber kick through the Bilambil defence and managed to follow his kick and regather the ball to score.”

Cudgen went into halftime down 10-8 with Ziebell putting a kick in behind the Bilambil defence 20 minutes in.

“The ball bounced back to our centre

Joel Hare who charged onto the ball and scored directly under the post to take us up 14-10,” Ziebell said.

“Then five minutes later we managed to cross over again with Alec Williams scoring his second try in the corner to take us up 20-10 with 15 minutes to play.

“Bilambil managed to get a try back with seven minutes to go to make it 20-16 but we managed to hold on for the win.”

The Mustangs are making their run for the finals with a 30-26 win over Casino with Adam Walker scoring three tries.

The Tweed Coast Raiders nearly

took the win against Northern United with a great run down the wing in the dying seconds but couldn’t get it down and lost 12-8.

Coach Brent Kite said it was “the story of our season.”

“We played really well but just not well enough,” he said.

“We came up against Tyrone (Roberts) and James Roberts which was a good experience for the guys and they are still playing pretty good footy.

“Tyrone is a pretty good dummy and Jimmy Roberts is a hard player to defend so I was pretty happy that our young fellows didn’t let him get around them but he was still good enough to

skip across on the inside and create a few chances so that’s a credit to them.

“I thought our young backs Darcy and Pete did a good job.

“I think we did okay considering they had some good players.”

Next weekend Ballina host the Raiders, Mullum host the Jets, Murwillumbah are at home against Marist Brothers and Byron host Cudgen.

Mustangs will hold their Old Boys Day on July 13 and invite all South’s and Brothers past and present players, supporters, and committee to come for a catch up and a great day of footy.

Real Estate Estate

The benefits of buying and selling at auction

By Jo Kennett

TO AUCTION or not to auction?

With a marked increase in the number of properties going to auction across the country, buyers and sellers need to know the ins and outs of auctions.

If a buyer finds a property they are interested in, it can be daunting to think that it’s going to be sold at auction.

What if you accidentally bid $100,000 more than you meant to? Or what if you miss your chance entirely because you are so worried about stuffing the whole thing up?

What about selling? Is it better to sell at auction or not?

According to PropTrack, high demand with strong population growth and a tough rental market have contributed to an increase in activity recently, including in the number of auctions.

Auctions have increased by 26 per cent from January to May 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

Auctions can provide an opportunity for canny buyers to pick up a bargain if bidding is limited. There are some things buyers need to know, for instance there is no cooling off period with properties bought at auction.

To participate or bid at an auction, potential buyers must register with the vendor’s agent and be given a bidder’s number. Bidding can be done by phone with a proxy if you can’t make the auction.

Before auctioning a property, the seller will nominate a reserve price, which is usually not advertised. If the bidding continues beyond the

Open Homes

Saturday, June 29

MANA Real Estate

• 119 Commercial Road, Murwillumbah 9-9.30am

• 5 Kiah Court, Ocean Shores. 9-9.30am

• 10 Palmer Avenue, Ocean Shores. 9.30-10am

• 142 Bakers Road, Dunbible. 10-11am

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

reserve price, the property is sold at the fall of the hammer. If you are the successful bidder, you must sign the contract of sale and pay the deposit on the spot (usually around 10 per cent of the purchase price). Otherwise, you will lose your deposit and may be liable for any damages suffered by the vendor.

Tate Brownlee Real Estate has

a strong auction culture, which principal and chief auctioneer

Tate Brownlee says is a testament to their commitment to delivering exceptional sales outcomes for clients.

Since December 2023, Tate Brownlee has maintained an impressive 83 per cent auction clearance rate, reflecting the robust demand and effectiveness of their auction strategy.

“For potential buyers, understanding the auction process is crucial,” Tate says.

“One of the most important steps is obtaining pre-approval for financing.

“This is essential because buying at auction means you cannot include any conditions such as finance approval, pest inspections, or building inspections.

“Everything must be ready to go prior to purchasing.”

To facilitate a smooth and streamlined process, Tate Brownlee advises their sellers to have a pest and building report completed on the property prior to auction.

“This transparency helps potential buyers feel more secure and informed, allowing them to bid with confidence,” Tate said.

“Our team at Tate Brownlee Real Estate are dedicated to supporting

• 28 Philip Street, South Golden Beach. 1111.30am

• 39A Granuaille Road, Bangalow. 11-12pm

• 6 Central Park Lane, Casuarina. 12-12.30pm

• 10 Palmer Avenue, Ocean Shores. 2-2.30pm

• 16 Eloura Court, Ocean Shores. 3-3.30pm

Evergreen Exclusive Estates

• 6 Palm Road, North Tumbulgum 11-12pm

DJ Stringer Property Services

• 16/74 Greenway Dr, Banora Point 9-9:30am

our buyers throughout the auction process.

“We assist them by pre-registering for the auctions, ensuring they are prepared and confident to participate.

“Our goal is to provide a seamless experience, from the initial interest to the final bid.”

Tate says that auctioning is often considered the best method for sellers in the real estate market.

“Our team follows a strong auction procedure so the process is transparent,” he said.

“Properties sold at auction do not have conditions attached, ensuring a final sale once the hammer falls.

“Auctions also offer a set date for the sale, beneficial for sellers needing a timely transaction.

“Additionally, the entire process is handled by the auctioneer and real estate team, making it convenient for the seller.

“Our auction program consistently delivers maximum market price for our sellers.”

Tate has a modern architecturallydesigned masterpiece with ocean views for sale at 679 Terranora Road, Terranora. It’s open for viewing at 12pm to 12.30pm on Saturday, June 29, and goes to auction at 6pm on Tuesday, July 2.

• 52 Seven Oaks Dr, Nunderi 10:15-11:00am Tate Brownlee

• 4/11 Lord Street, Coolangatta, 9 -9:30am

• 16/291 Darlington Drive, Banora Point, 10 -10:30am

• 2/7 Cromer Court, Banora Point, 10 -10:30am

• 20 Tyrone Terrace, Banora Point, 11 -11:30am

• 2 Campfire Court, Terranora, 11 -11:30am

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

• 45 Shamrock Avenue, Banora Point, 1-1:30pm

• 11 Fraser Drive, Tweed Heads South, 1-1:30pm

679 Terranora Road, Terranora is coming up for auction with Tate Brownlee

Tweed Broadwater - Tweed Heads South

Banksia Waters - Tweed Heads West

Colonial Tweed - Tweed Heads South

The Palms Village - Tweed Heads South

Tweed Broadwater - Tweed Heads South

Tweed Shores - Chinderah

Tweed Broadwater - Tweed Heads South

Bilambil Creek Village - Bilambil

6 Central Park Lane, Casuarina

Scan QR for more details and open home times.

Wendy Rosenbaum 0437 709 993 wendy@manare.au

237 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah

Scan QR for more details and open home times.

Wendy Rosenbaum 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

261 Tunnel Road, Stokers Siding

Scan QR for more details and open home times.

Wendy Rosenbaum 0437 709 993 wendy@manare.au

Shores

Craig Dudgeon

Craig Dudgeon

Matt Armstrong

Matt Armstrong

Craig Dudgeon

Dan Smith

Kristie Hoffman

Craig Dudgeon

Kristie Hoffman

Dan Smith

Amy Rosser

Craig Dudgeon

6 Palm Road, North Tumbulgum

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

Price - $2.6m - Ready to Sell Inspect Saturday - 11am - 12pm

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

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

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

Elevated elegance with views over Terranora inlet.