Tweed Valley Weekly, March 30, 2023

Provest wins fifth term

By Yvonne Gardiner

RE-ELECTED MEMBER for Tweed

Geoff Provest will sit on the NSW Opposition benches for the first time in 12 years when he returns to Parliament, in one of the closet races for Tweed in a decade.

He is being urged to work co-operatively with the new Minns Labor government in his fifth term to achieve the best outcomes for the Tweed.

Mr Provest has been a member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly representing the Tweed since March 2007 when he took Labor’s most marginal seat.

As Member for Tweed, he counts as achievements the delivery of the new Tweed Valley Hospital, increasing police numbers, fire and ambulance stations, the koala rehabilitation facility and more than 200 hectares of new habitat for koalas.

During the campaign Mr Provest said the three main concerns for Tweed residents were cost of living pressures, health care, and preserving the Tweed’s unique beautiful environment.

“I feel very humble that the people of the Tweed have put their faith in myself,” he told The Weekly.

“We’ve been delivering for the Tweed. It’s all about reality and delivery. We’ve promised and we’ve delivered.”

Mr Provest said he spent four years in Opposition in 2007-11 and proved that he could still achieve when not in government “I’ve got the experience to do that. I tend to treat people with respect,” he said. “I’d like to pay tribute to the other candidates. Campaigning is an arduous and unforgiving process.”

On election day, Mr Provest was disap-

pointed with the distribution of “misinformation” that put fear into voters’ minds, such as the supposed shutting down of a fire station.

At close of counting on Tuesday night with 43,574 (75.6%) votes counted, Mr Provest had snared 18,558 (44.2%) of the first preference vote.

Labor’s Craig Elliot won 13,096 (31.2%) first preference votes, while The Greens’ Ciara Denham claimed 4,855 (11.6%).

On a two-candidate preferred basis, Mr Provest stood at 19,970 (53.7%) votes and was declared re-elected, while Mr Elliot mustered 17,228 (46.3%) of the vote counted.

Mr Provest was leading by 2,742 votes on Monday night, despite a 3.3% swing against him. The swing to the ALP was 0.2%.

Tweed Labor candidate Craig Elliot, who was unsuccessful at his second attempt to unseat Mr Provest, urged the re-elected MP to work co-operatively with the new Labor government of NSW.

“I think overwhelmingly voters in NSW voted for a positive change,” Mr Elliot said.

“For those people who voted Labor, I thank them. It’s a very positive outcome from my perspective.

“It means so much for the Tweed. It’s a fantastic outcome for NSW.

“The next four years is about what a Minns Labor government can deliver for the Tweed.

“Frontline services under the Nationals weren’t getting a fair go.

“I look forward to Chris Minns being Premier; he’s a decent person.”

Mr Elliot paid tribute to the other Tweed

candidates.

“I’d like to acknowledge the Greens candidate (Ciara Denham) and Susie Hearder from the Animal Justice Party.

“We had respectful engagements. They’re all good people.

“It’s been an absolute honour and privilege to be a Labor candidate.

“On election day, we had lots and lots of people volunteering from Labor.

“There can only be one successor.”

Asked if he will put his hand up for election again in 2027: “No one ever says no,” Mr Elliot said.

He told The Weekly that Labor commitments made during the election campaign would stand, in particular the new high school at Pottsville.

Mr Provest said Labor had allocated no money for the high school.

“My concern is that it never appeared in any Labor Budget papers,” he said.

The re-elected Member for Tweed is not hankering for any particular role in the Opposition ranks.

“My role is to represent the people of the Tweed, that’s the number one,” he said. *Follow the vote-counting on the NSW Electoral Commission website.

Poison ban on agenda

COUNCILLOR NOLA Firth is on a mission to rid the Tweed Shire of long-lasting rat poisons, which she says place native animals and pets at risk.

Cr Firth was successful in gaining support from the majority of her fellow councillors to promote the non-poisoning methods of rodent management across the shire, but also investigating alternatives to the use of second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) in the council’s sewer pumps.

Council, like many local farmers, use SGARs to reduce rat and rodent infestations around sensitive sewer pump electrical equipment.

In fact, of the 189 sewer pump stations in Council’s control, 38 are regularly treated with SGARs.

“I am very happy that the motion for community education about the dangers

of long-lasting rat poisons passed with such strong support (6-1, Cr Warren Polglase against),” Cr Firth told The Weekly.

“It’s clear the community really cares about protecting our wildlife and their pets.”

The motion includes Council education of the community on safer rat management, which Cr Firth said includes closing off gaps and using traditional traps.

“There are now new options such as digital monitoring and a gas-powered rat trap that resets automatically,” she said.

“Council is currently trialling this gas trap as it kills instantly and is much kinder than poison.

“If, as last resort, poison is purchased, people need to know that first generation poisons are safer and that it involves choosing products that don’t say words like ‘kills in one feed’.

“The motion also asked for a report into alternatives to use in 38 sewer pumps of second-generation anti-coagulant rodenticide (SGARs).

“This is the only place where it’s used by Council.

“The problem with controlling rats’’damage to electricals in sewers is that it is a wet environment.

“An equally quick-acting first-generation poison is, at this stage, not waterproof.

“I am hoping that the company concerned will take up the issue of caring for our precious wildlife and adapt accordingly.”

Council’s report noted that rodents in Council sewer pump stations present a “significant risk” to the operation of the electrical equipment which ensures the effective monitoring and pumping of raw sewage to treatment plants.

Geoff Provest is back on deck for Tweed

Letter of the Week

You have won a double pass* to the film of your choice

Thanking our community heroes

I would like to say a huge thank you to some mostly unseen and unsung heroes, namely the nurses and volunteers at Wedgetail Retreat.

Some heroes wear a uniform (SES, RFS, SLS, to name a few), and a huge thank you to those also, but the heroes at Wedgetail, they have a small badge with their name on it as well as the word volunteer or nurse.

We don’t see or recognise them when they’re out in the community, but thank God they’re there at Wedgetail. The care, kindness and compassion they show, the quiet dignity with which they carry themselves, even the cheeky humour that allows for a brief moment of respite, at what is for most families a tremendously hard and heartbreaking time, is beyond priceless.

We cannot thank you enough, and to us, it doesn’t seem enough, but thank you, thank you, thank you, you made such a difference to us and our loved ones at a very difficult time.

as the wording of the referendum question is debated in Parliament.

We have an opportunity to seize the moment and to unite as a nation.

Tony Davies, Social Futures CEO We

are one nation

We are all Australians, made up of people from all over the world and all, of age, have an opportunity to vote for their parliamentary representative. Do we give the Chinese, Italians, Indians and others a separate “Voice” as well?

On 26th January 1949, the Australian Nationality came into existence, when the Nationality and Citizens Act 1948 was enacted.

On that day, we all (including Aboriginal people) became Australians instead of British subjects.

People from all over the world now live in Australia.

Many came from backgrounds of conflict and migrated to Australia for a better life.

We are now all one nation.

Peter Mason, Armidale Roadside slashing help

Why Solar Owners are Fuming

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Unless you have solar batteries you are facing serious increases in energy costs. 888 Solar Tek have installed hundreds of solar battery systems in the Northern Rivers in the last 8 years and can help you with great deals on the most reliable and long lasting solar batteries in Australia. Get a Hybrid inverter and 4.8 kWh battery installed for as low as $7,888.

ernment, there are crews that come up from Sydney and we are waiting for this to happen, it’s very dangerous to adhere to the maintenance of grass cutting” — it goes on and on and on. There was a so-called “town hall” meeting on 24 January at the Civic Centre, Tweed Heads, headed by Geoff Provest.

Council, the police, the manager of Tweed Mall, others as well, all up on the stage to address issues in the shire, from homelessness to crime. I attended and spoke about overgrown vegetation and to date, absolutely nothing has been done to address the issue.

Sue Kreger, Banora Point

Many thanks for the pens report in The Weekly

Many thanks for your kind report on our “Pens for Troops” project (TVW, March 16, 2023).

house can be built/purchased for short-term holiday letting under the government’s changes to the NSW Environmental Planning & Assessment (EP&A) Act, and as such lost to any actual quantitative increased housing supply.

It enables the overriding of much statutory investment/work undertaken by local councils and communities to develop their planning tools and long-term strategic planning.

The government swept into power in 2011 on the back of Part 3A, promising to give planning powers back to local communities.

What we have instead been dealt with is the repeated undermining of the NSW EP&A Act and the state taking over so much more of our planning controls.

Lindy Smith, Tweed Heads Garden Club meeting

To laugh and sing the happiness

song

Today it would be hard to put a foot wrong.

Walk with an extra bounce in your step, Talk with enthusiasm, with joy and with pep.

Pass it on, you can’t help it, it’s very infectious.

It can’t hurt you but beware, it’s extremely contagious.

It’s time to smile, laugh and play. It’s not banned, in fact it’s mandatory today.

Let’s all jump on the happiness bandwagon.

Keep it going until it becomes a natural phenomenon.

Maggie Cadman, Murwillumbah

Warm up for Bike Fest Oz

Craig and Jodie

Corlis, Palmvale The Voice has our support

This is an important moment in Australia’s history and I’m hoping the nation will unite to give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people this permanent and ongoing Voice to government.

Social Futures supports the Voice, as an important first step towards justice for First Nations people, as part of a broader commitment to implement the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

The other elements of the Uluru Statement — a treaty and truth-telling — remain necessary actions needed as Australia continues working towards reconciliation.

We know there are differing views on proposed changes to the constitution.

So we look forward to a thoughtful and respectful national conversation

Regarding the March 16 edition of Tweed Valley Weekly, in particular the story on “Slashing urgent”, I would like to give my opinion of overgrown vegetation.

I have advised Tweed Shire Council, Justine Elliot, Geoff Provest (I have been to his office three to four times and reported the issue) and Transport for NSW of overgrown vegetation at Sexton Hill Road, Banora Point, where it joins the on-ramp to the M1 north bound.

There is an overpass bridge on Sexton Hill Road and to date, nothing has been done to slash or tidy up the trees, weeds are growing high enough to touch the road signs and grass is now growing onto the road, thankfully cars are pushing the grass back.

There is also graffiti on this overpass as well.

The answers I get are “it’s not a Tweed Shire Council issue, it’s the state government, it’s the federal gov-

The pens, made from local timbers by our male and female club members, were gratefully received by the project organisers in Sydney last week and are now on their way for distribution to the troops overseas.

The Tweed Valley Woodcrafters Association also sends a big thank you to the Murwillumbah RSL, who made a kind donation towards the cost of the pen kits used to make the pens for our project.

This Anzac Day there will be some happy troops receiving another small token of our appreciation for their dedication and commitment to our welfare.

Ian Hunter, Tweed Valley Woodcrafters Association, Murwillumbah Planning control takeover

The NSW Planning Rezoning Pathways was released the day before the election caretaker period.

This will service the agendas of developers/land bankers which is very much alive in our shire.

Under the guise of the need for housing, there continues to be a real failure to acknowledge the herd of elephants in the room that any new

Club Banora Garden Club is set to host its next meeting on Tuesday, April 4.

The meeting will start at 10am sharp with doors opening at 9.30am.

The meeting will take place at Club Banora, Leisure Drive, Banora Point.

Our guest speaker is Grace from Rise & Shine Candles, who we are delighted to welcome.

Next meeting the speaker is the Bee Lady from Murwillumbah.

New members are more than welcome. Hope to see you there.

For more information please phone: 0448 531 055

Gwendoline Barnes, Banora Point World Happiness Day World Happiness Day comes just once a year, For you and for me that day is finally here.

Think of all the things that you love, All of the people, and your turtle dove.

From the moment the sun peaks through the clouds, Until the sun sets we’re all blissfully allowed

Bike Fest Oz! 2023 have announced an official warm-up trial run to be held at Kingscliff and Chinderah across the April 22-23 weekend. With the support of the Taphouse Group, owners of the Kingscliff Beach Hotel and the Chinderah Tavern, festival promoters are hosting activities across both days, including headline bands The Feramones and Fat Albert.

The Feramones are playing at the Kingscliff Beach Hotel on the Saturday night, April 22, while Fat Albert will have people up and dancing at the Chinderah Tavern on the following Sunday afternoon.

Chris Beattie, Tweed Heads

By Jo Kennett

SEVERAL RESIDENTS of Tringa Street in Tweed Heads West are furious that developers of an adjoining block of land are using their street for access, saying “they don’t have the required development application (DA)”.

The property at 60 Tringa Street is a 15.71 hectare block of bushland abutting Cobaki Creek and was sold for $20.57million last year to Maas Group Holdings. Approval for a 37-lot industrial subdivision was originally granted in 1996.

Tringa Street resident Rob Eady lives opposite the site and says the developers are “illegally coming into this site which they do not have a DA for.”

“We didn’t get a letter drop or anything. We got no notice. They just arrived like the light brigade,” Rob said.

“We are talking about great big bulldozers, excavators and a big machine that chomps up the trees. All the neighbours are ropable.”

Local residents say the developers were supposed to come in through Sussyer Avenue to the north for preliminary site works with permanent access through Hakea Drive via Gray Street.

“They had to build another access road and two bridges to access the land from Sussyer Avenue but they didn’t,” Rob said.

“Their designated access is through Hakea Street (off Gray Street) which they haven’t built yet either.”

The Sussyer Street access road approval has now lapsed and Rob says locals are concerned the new access roads won’t be built.

“Everyone in Gray Street is going to cop it too,” he said.

“It’s a no-brainer; they should be accessing it off Sussyer.”

Rob said they have witnessed wildlife fleeing the block as clearing of the bush commenced.

“Chris Cherry was here this afternoon and she was livid and wanted an explanation as to why someone gave them permission to drive in here,” he said.

Rob said the developers were going to put a lot of fill on the site.

“When we had those floods last year, there was six feet of water all over that land and almost coming into the reserve behind us, so where is all that water going to go when we get the next big flood?” he said.

“If we have an event like that again and all the houses go under we will all know who to blame.”

According to Rob, local residents just want the developers and their machinery “out of our estate.”

“Tringa Street is a cul-de-sac. There is hardly any traffic and it’s all bush,” he said.

Residents are also concerned that the site might be turned into a freight hub for the Gold Coast Airport “with freight trucked in day and night.”

Tweed Shire Council’s Director of Planning and Regulation Vince Connell said the new owners of the property “recently commenced initial site preparation works (fencing, vegetation clearance, internal access), not construction works (excavation and earthworks), on the basis of earlier development and construction approvals.”

“Given the limited nature and time frame of these works (a maximum period of four weeks), Council officers considered it was reasonable for the proponent to utilise their legal right of access to their site off the western end of Tringa Street for their works vehicles,” he said.

“As the Principal Certifying Authority

for the subdivision construction, Council has been responding to a number of complaints received from surrounding residents relating to these initial works, and has been working with the contractors and owner of the site to achieve a safe and well-managed construction site, in compliance with the conditions and plans of older approvals.

“Council staff are also currently assessing a number of new applications to modify the previous Council approvals, which would necessitate a major review of the road access and environmental conditions for this site.

“A report on the current site activities will be submitted to the Council meeting on April 6.”

The Maas Group told The Weekly their DA from Tweed Shire Council to undertake clearing and filling works on the site “grants us access to the site from Tringa Street for the purposes of the clearing works which are currently being undertaken.”

“Once the site clearing works are complete, access via Tringa Street will be blocked,” a Maas spokesperson said.

Clearing has started at 60 Tringa Street

Calls to reduce boat wash on Tweed River

By Jonathon Howard

CONDONG CANE farmer Matthew Shoobridge says the Tweed River has become a “high speed ski and wakeboard park for speed boats and Queenslanders” and he’s concerned without action the river’s health will continue to erode.

Mr Shoobridge said many parts of the Gold Coast have banned or regulated high-wash water sports, prompting many speed boat owners to opt for the Tweed River instead.

Mr Shoobridge lives on the riverbank opposite the Condong Sugar Mill, and for the past four years has watched the river gradually erode due to floods and high-wash water sports. He now believes the river is being “mistreated by some users”, who he says “may not understand their impact on the soft alluvial riverbank or the future health of the river”.

“NSW Maritime needs to be empowered to put speed limits in and rules that prevent high-impact wash occurring in areas of unprotected riverbank which do not have rock

walls,” he told The Weekly.

Mr Shoobridge has questioned why the NSW Government is allowing river users to “damage the riverbank, pollute the water and wash away our private land”, when these practices are more regulated in Queensland, where they have clear guidelines.

“I have spoken to local maritime police, river safety officers and Tweed Shire Council team members, and they all acknowledge the issues, but their hands are tied due to a lack of legislation and funding to prevent this abuse of the river and riverbank health,” he said.

“I am not against people enjoying the river, but this select group of users make it impossible for others to enjoy the river for kayaking, fishing, stand-up paddle boarding and rowing.

“These low-wash activities bring far more economic benefits to the region and do not degrade the river.

“The only economic benefit to the high-impact sports is petrol purchases, in my opinion.”

Mr Shoobridge said the issues do not end with high-wash activities.

He’s witnessed visitors using the river as a party zone and worse.

“I note that in Condong we have had reports of people defecating in backyards on the weekend due to these people using the Condong boat ramp area as a weekend party zone and there are no toilets,” he said.

“Unprotected areas of the Tweed River should not be used as a high-impact water sport park.

“Our section of the riverbank needs funding for revetment rock and revegetation.

“I appreciate the community has many issues, I myself am still dealing with flood recovery of our house and farm, having this third-party damage occurring is adding insult to injury.”

Murwillumbah Rowing Club president Roland Jahnke said he understands Mr Shoobridge’s concerns.

“We want to see the benefit of the pristine Tweed River shared with everyone, and that includes maintaining the river environment to the joy and benefit of all river users,” Mr Jahnke said.

“A part of this is minimising highwash activities on the Tweed River.”

Mr Jahnke said he appreciates those who do recognise the river’s sensitivity and do already slow down for passive river users.

Dragons Abreast Wollumbin president Anne Bowden said she agrees with Mr Shoobridge.

“There certainly has been damage to the riverbanks due to high-speed wash,” she said.

“We would support any measure that would slow these boats down and prevent further river erosion.”

Ms Bowden said there are already limited areas where jet skis and jet boats can undertake these activities.

“It just so happens that we use the river in the same location for dragon boat practice and racing,” she said.

“We support the Council in their efforts to limit these high-speed watercraft to prevent the impact to the riverbanks.

“The damage to the riverbank is enormous and has to be addressed and discussed.”

Cr Nola Firth said Council’s Tweed River Management Plan recommended further areas of the river be protected from erosion by high-powered boats and towing.

“Unfortunately this was not taken up by NSW Maritime,” she said.

“Effective riverbank management ensures protection of the integrity of our riverbanks, prevention of erosion, improved water quality, restoration of our riparian vegetation and maintenance of a fish and aquatic plant-friendly environment.

“We definitely need a river rather than an engineered gutter and it is possible to achieve the required protections by using some rock and fish hotel areas, as well as planting of buffers (wide enough to be effective) of riverbank stabilising, water cleansing riparian vegetation,” she said.

“With regard to resourcing, while much buffer planting can be done immediately by riverfront owners, as a Council we have also written to the state government asking for automatic inclusion in post-flood restoration funding of river restoration — not just road restoration.”

READ THE TRANSPORT FOR NSW RESPONSE

A Transport for NSW spokesperson said it is “aware of the concerns raised by Mr Shoobridge”.

“We have installed buoys along an 800-metre stretch of the river to assist with keeping vessels away from the bank in order to minimise wash,” the spokesperson said.

“Maritime is monitoring vessel activity in the area around Condong.

“We are investigating posting relevant signage to educate boaters in the area.”

Read the full response from Tweed River Ski Club on page 11.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Do you believe the Tweed River needs speed limits to prevent erosion? The Weekly would like to hear your thoughts both for and against. Please send your views to the editor via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

Where Mr Shoobridge's farm used to be and (in red) eroded land in what he says is a "high-wash area".

Mr Shoobridge with his son kayaking: "Note our bank falling in and how the waves undermine the bank allowing more topsoil to fall into the river," he said.

Tweed Link

Tweed Shire Council wishes to recognise the generations of the local Aboriginal people of the Tweed Bundjalung Nation who have lived in and derived their physical and spiritual needs from the forests, rivers, lakes and streams of this beautiful valley over many thousands of years as the traditional custodians of these lands.

Last week we each used 175L a day

as at 27 March 2023

Flood Recovery update – 30 March 2023

Flood restoration and resilience works continue around the Tweed with sports facilities also being addressed including:

Brian Breckenridge Field Restoration and Resilience Project

Funded by the Sport Priority Needs Program, flood damage works will include:

• reinstate canteen

• repair changerooms

• electrical – relocating electrical box higher to guard against risk of future flood.

The works are estimates to be completed by the end of April.

Knox Park Netball Restoration and Resilience Project

Funded by the Sport Priority Needs Program, flood damage works will include:

• clubhouse repair

• electrical – relocating electrical box higher to guard against risk of future flood.

Clubhouse repairs are estimated to be completed by the end of April.

Barrie Smith Fields Restoration and Resilience Project

Funded by the Sport Priority Needs Program, flood damage works which have been completed include reinstating field 2 lighting and relocating electrical box higher to guard against risk of future flood. Road works

Council continues to deal with flood recovery works around the Tweed and has awarded road works to the following contractors:

• Australian Marine and Civil – Smiths Creek Road ($819,000), Palmvale Road ($555,000) and Stokers Road ($1.9 million)

Complete our Dog Walking Survey by Monday 3 April to help get a better understanding of where people of the Tweed like to walk their dogs and whether they like to use a leash or not.

Calling all dog owners and beach users

Council is talking to dog walkers and other beach users to gain a better understanding of where people of the Tweed like to walk their dogs and whether they like to use a leash or not.

We know many of our residents have dogs and love the beach. If you

have a spare 10 minutes, please complete our Dog Walking Survey at bit.ly/ttl2023 by Monday 3 April.

To find out where you can walk your dog, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/ where-can-I-walk-my-dog

Developing a strategy fit for future champions

As part of Council’s commitment to provide the community with opportunities to be more active and healthy, Council is partnering with the Better Cities Group to develop a new Sport and Active Recreation Strategy to guide investment and decision-making over the next 10 years.

The strategy will be an important planning tool to direct future resource priorities, major projects and initiatives that support participation in community sport and active recreation.

Together with the Better Cities Group, Council has already begun engaging with the Tweed’s more than 80 sports clubs, hosting a special community conversation at Seagulls Club yesterday to seek their input.

As demand for sports and recreation facilities increases it is

important that the community think about what this means for our sports, our clubs and our facilities to make sure the strategy meets the needs of the community today and over the next decade.

With the Olympics due to be hosted just across the border in Brisbane and the Gold Coast in 2032, it is an exciting time for the entire sporting community.

Engagement is currently being undertaken directly with the clubs and associations to understand current context and future aspirations.

Wider community engagement will take place in April through pop-ups at community events and an online survey on Your Say Tweed. Feedback will inform the draft strategy which will be on public exhibition and open for comment in June.

For more information visit yoursaytweed.com.au/activerecreation

• Pan Civil – Hazelbrook Road ($5.9 million) and Round Mountain Road ($930,000)

• PCA Ground Engineering – Richards Deviation ($594,000) and Nimbin Road ($1.2 million).

To stay up to date with Flood Recovery in the Tweed, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-recovery-update

Get the Tweed Link early by email

Be

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

The Sports and Active Recreation Strategy will be an important planning tool to direct future resource priorities, major projects and initiatives that support participation in community sport and active recreation.

Flood restoration continues in the canteen at the Brian Breckenridge sports facility at Tumbulgum.

Twilight movies return to Jack Evans Boat Harbour

As part of the NSW Government’s Places to Love initiative Council will be screening another free family movie night at Jack Evans Boat Harbour on Friday 14 April.

Friends and family can once again come together for a night of entertainment under the stars.

Twilight movies on the Tweed creates a fun and unique family experience is suitable for people of all ages.

The movie screen is located next to Livvi’s Place at Goorimahbah – Place of Stories, an exciting new inclusive park

Mark Friday 14 April in your calendar for the free Twilight Movie at Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Tweed Heads.

and playspace which has been described as the “best playground ever” by some.

The PG rated movie, Minions – Rise of Gru, will begin at 7:30 pm. Rug up and bring your picnic blankets, chairs, snacks and drinks.

Come early and enjoy street food and live music at the open-air Tweed Night Markets from 5 to 8 pm or go to a local restaurant for dinner beforehand.

The Places to Love initiative includes another activation, Little Nova, a daytime temporary coffee kiosk. Surrounded by pre-loved furniture from Council’s tip shop, locals can enjoy a coffee or cold drink, a savoury snack or sweet treat and sit under the leafy shade nearby.

These activations provide the opportunity for community to come together, to connect with one another, their neighbours and to feel pride for where they live.

The community is encouraged to take public transport, ride, walk, skate or scoot to the precinct.

For up-to-date weather notice please follow Council’s Facebook page.

For more information visit yoursaytweed.com.au/lovejackevans

Lenny is loving his Banora Point home

With the Tweed’s coastal koala population in danger of extinction, every koala rescued or saved is critical to ensure the survival of this iconic Australian marsupial.

In January, Friends of the Koala volunteers responded to calls from residents of Botanical Circuit, Banora Point to check on a koala who was looking unwell. Koala Lenny was rescued and received a full health check at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital (CWH). Fortunately, they found no evidence of illness or injury from a dog attack or motor vehicle strike and was well enough to be released.

Lenny is a gorgeous 5-year-old female who has been rescued twice in the past 2 years, and each time released into more suitable habitat at Terranora. Both times she has returned to the Botanical Circuit area which is risky due to its busy location in the suburbs.

After extensive consultation with Friends of the Koala vet staff and CWH koala ecologists, Lenny was released close by to where she was found, in what appears to be her preferred habitat.

Successful osprey nest relocation at Hastings Point

Earlier this month, Council staff successfully relocated the Hastings Point osprey nest material from its location on a light pole on the Hastings Point Tweed Coast Road Bridge, to a new nest cradle located a stone’s throw away at the Hastings Point Holiday Park.

The mission was challenging due to the height of the nest, and its exposed location right next to the busy road. The nest material was carefully transferred to the new nest cradle and it’s good news – the birds have relocated and are looking comfortably set up in their new ‘room with a view’.

Protecting the Tweed Coast osprey population is one way Council is looking after the Tweed’s environment for future generations to enjoy. Read the full story at tweed.nsw.gov.au/latest-news

To assist with monitoring movements, Lenny wears a red tag with the number 4557 in her right ear. Keep an eye out and report your sightings to Council if you see Lenny around. Visit tweed.nsw. gov.au/Lenny-koalareturns-Banora-Point to find out more.

Lenny was released in what appears to be her preferred habitat in Banora Point.

Three osprey were recently captured enjoying their new nest with a birds-eye view of Cudgera Creek to catch the best fish.

Proposed licence of Council-owned community land

Tweed Shire Council proposes to grant a licence in respect of Council-owned Community land as follows:

Property: 525 Piggabeen Road, Piggabeen; Lot 203 in DP755740 as outlined in the location diagram shown below.

Term: Five (5) years

Permitted use: Community Hall

Licensee: Piggabeen and Cobaki Progress Association Incorporated ABN 93 311 463 688

Proposed road closure, Tygalgah

Proposed road closure, Tygalgah (under section 38B Roads Act 1993)

Council proposes to close part of a council public road being part Racecourse Road, Tygalgah (west of Lot 4 DP 802226) indicated as Lot 2 on the map.

Council is proposing closure of that part of the road to give the land as compensation for the acquisition of part of private property indicated as Lot 3 on the map for the purpose of road realignment.

Have your say

All interested community members are invited to make submissions concerning the proposal within 28 days of this advertisement by:

Mail: The General Manager Tweed Shire Council PO Box 816 Murwillumbah NSW 2484

Email: tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Council is inviting feedback from community members on the proposal and will consider all submissions before deciding on whether to proceed with licencing the site.

Have your say

Written submissions relating to this proposal are to be made by 5 pm, Wednesday 26 April to Council via:

Mail: PO Box 816, Murwillumbah NSW 2484

Email: tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Online: yoursaytweed.com.au/piggabeen

Note that under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (NSW), such submissions may be referred to third parties for consideration.

Council ref.: PN:13845 Licence – Piggabeen Hall

Enquiries: Jennie Stephenson, Technical Officer – Property Phone: 02 6670 2400

This notice is in accordance with section 47 of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW).

Online: yoursaytweed/tygalgah

Under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (NSW), submissions may be referred to third parties for consideration.

Once the submission period is completed, feedback will be considered, and a decision will be made in relation to the road closure.

Submissions close: 5 pm, Wednesday 26 April 2023

Council ref,: PN:14424 Racecourse Road

Enquiries: Jennie Stephenson, Technical Officer – Property Phone: 02 6670 2400

This notice is in accordance with the provisions of the Roads Act 1993 (NSW).

Proposed licence of Council-owned community land

Tweed Shire Council proposes to grant a licence in respect of Councilowned Community land as follows:

Property: 3 Satinwood Place, Chillingham; Lot 2 DP129078 as outlined in the location diagram shown below.

Term: Five (5) years

Permitted use: Community Hall

Licensee: Chillingham Public Hall Committee ABN 38 890 841 495

Council is inviting feedback from community members on the proposal and will consider all submissions before deciding on whether to proceed with licencing the site.

Written submissions relating to this proposal are to be made by no later than 5 pm within 28 days of the date of this notice to Council via:

Mail: PO Box 816, Murwillumbah NSW 2484

Email: tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Online: yoursaytweed.com.au/landchillingham

Note that under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (NSW), such submissions may be referred to third parties for consideration.

Council ref.: PN:11392 Licence – Chillingham Hall.

Enquiries: Jennie Stephenson, Technical Officer – Property Phone: 02 6670 2400

This notice is in accordance with section 47 of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW)

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

Credit: Sally Hinton

Keep stormwater out of your sewer pipes

Property owners can prevent nasty sewage overflows by checking 2 things around their homes.

Water and Wastewater operations manager Brie Jowett said last year’s very high rainfall drew attention to the need for everyone to ensure their downpipes do not connect to sewer pipes and their overflow relief gullies are compliant.

“You can find your overflow relief gully outside, usually near your toilet, laundry or kitchen,” Mrs Jowett said.

“It should be around 75 mm above the ground that surrounds it. If it’s not, stormwater can more easily overload your sewer pipes and cause a sewage overflow.

“Also make sure your gully is not covered up. We typically see leaves, mats and pot plants on top but sometimes we see gullies completely covered by concrete or paving. Any type of covering can stop your gully from doing its job and sewage might overflow inside your home.

“And if you have a rainwater tank, make sure it doesn’t overflow to your sewer pipes.”

Mrs Jowett said sewer pipes and the larger wastewater network weren’t designed to drain stormwater.

“The network is built to transfer wastewater from toilets, sinks and drains to our wastewater treatment plants,” she said.

“It’s hard to avoid some stormwater from entering, so the network can generally pass 5 to 7 times its normal, dry weather volume. Yet during downpours some sections have been carrying up to 20 times that volume.

“This overloads the network, causing sewage overflows at homes, backyards, businesses, streets and waterways. Overflows are serious health and environmental concerns and clean-ups are costly and far from pleasant.”

Throughout the year, Council crews work hard to reduce the amount of stormwater that enters the wastewater network.

“Our workers identify stormwater entry points through visual inspections, smoke testing, non-toxic die testing and camera inspections,” Mrs Jowett said. “Sometimes, we detect problems in our side of the wastewater network, which is seeing us reline older sewer pipes and repair leaky manholes.

“If we find a problem at a private property, we will send the owner a letter letting them know about the problem and advising them how to fix it. While we can issue penalties for not fixing these problems, we prefer to work with property owners to provide them with all the information they need.”

Go to tweed.nsw.gov.au/no-stormwater-in-sewers to find out more.

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

DA22/0419 – Secondary dwelling and carport

Lot 3 DP 549087, No. 1 Peter Street, Banora Point

DA22/0585 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including carport and gate house within front building line

Lot 206 DP 261796, No. 76 Bosun Boulevard, Banora Point

DA22/0191 – Boundary adjustment

Lot 32 DP 1085109, Lot 33 DP 1085109, Marana Street, Bilambil Heights

DA22/0514 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including garage, carport and pool

Lot 574 DP 217268, No. 15 Poplar Avenue, Bogangar

DA22/0537 – Carport within the front building line

Lot 5 DP 1052380, No. 35 Reef Water Circuit, Bogangar

DA23/0005 – Two storey dwelling with attached garage and inground swimming pool

Lot 23 DP 1286551, No. 16 Kanooka Crescent, Bogangar

DA23/0077 – Carport

Lot 59 DP 859730, No. 61 Hunter Street, Burringbar

DA22/0322 – Alterations and additions to existing detached dual occupancy (unit 1) including a carport, swimming pool and conversion of the garage to a living area

Lot 1 SP 98974, No. 41A Victoria Avenue, Pottsville

DA22/0589 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including inground pool and alterations to existing front fence

Lot 58 DP 221408, No. 35 Elanora Avenue, Pottsville

Top, make sure your overflow relief gully is compliant, and (above) check that your downpipes do not connect to your sewer pipes. Images courtesy of Unitywater.

It’s the final cane toad challenge countdown

We are on the countdown to the last cane toad muster for the season. The third and final week-long cane toad busting challenge starts on Monday 3 April.

Getting involved is easy – just join the Facebook event to register your involvement, get your team together (or go solo) and start collecting cane toads from your front lawn, your street or local park. Log your catch each day during the week and be in the draw to win great prizes.

FREE Twilight Movies on the Tweed

Minions, The Rise of Gru

Rated PG

Friday 14 April Starts 7.30 pm

Bring a blanket or chair. Follow our Facebook page in case event is cancelled due to bad weather. For more details visit yoursaytweed.com.au/lovejackevans

Proudly supported by NSW State Government Places to Love.

Resident and Ratepayer Association meetings

Chinderah Districts Residents Association meet Tuesday 4 April 2023, 7 pm at Uniting Church Hall, 24 Kingscliff Street, opposite nursing home Kingscliff.

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

Current vacancies

View current vacancies at tweed.nsw.gov.au/job-vacancies

Subscribe to receive Job Vacancy Alerts via email at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe

02 6670 2400 or 1300 292 872

PO Box 816, Murwillumbah NSW 2484

Council is working in partnership with Watergum and our community to reduce numbers of this pest in the Tweed. Actions like this will help to protect our natural environment to pass onto our next generation. Find out more and register at tweed.nsw.gov.au/cane-toads Join

DA23/0034 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including garage within the front building line

Lot 918 DP 1101845, No. 4 Newcastle Drive, Pottsville

DA22/0232 – Two storey dwelling with basement parking, front fence and swimming pool

Lot 4 DP 517150, No. 4 Oceanview Crescent, Kingscliff

DA22/0470 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including detached study, carport, boat port, swimming pool and 1.8 m front fence

Lot 136 DP 1202149, No. 49 Sailfish Way, Kingscliff

DA22/0706 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling

Lot 156 DP 1099179, No. 22 Cathedral Court, Kingscliff

DA23/0058 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including house raising

Lot 1 DP 340236, No. 11 Quarry Road, South Murwillumbah

DA22/0189 – Partially out of ground swimming pool

Lot 22 Section 10 DP 28266, No. 43 Hillcrest Avenue, Tweed Heads South

DA22/0827 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling

Lot 1 DP 243168, No. 42 Philp Parade, Tweed Heads South

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

Modification application for public comment – Section 4.56

The following Section 4.56(1) application has been received by Tweed Shire Council and may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au for a period of 14 days from Wednesday 29 March 2023 to Wednesday 12 April 2023.

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

Applicant Location Proposal File No.

DA20/0295.01

The Trustee for Cromack Family Trust & Others

Lot 6 DP 749384; No. 27 Reserve Creek Road, Kielvale; Lot 4 DP 877860; No. 29 Reserve Creek Road, Kielvale; Lot 3 DP 877860; Wulffs Lane, Kielvale

Proposed modification

Amendment to Development Consent DA20/0295 for a torrens title subdivision including two lot boundary adjustment between Lot 4 DP 877860 and Lot 6 DP 749384 to create 16 vacant lots, with 15 intended for residential use, including vegetation removal, demolition of existing metal farm shed, construction of roads and infrastructure services and ancillary drainage works

• Modify Condition 109 to amend the requirement for a restriction on the title restricting the erection of any structures in the 10m wide offset area to the vegetative buffer, such that the restriction on building in the 10m wide offset area relates to habitable buildings only – thereby removing the restriction on the erection of non-habitable buildings in this 10m wide offset area.

• Modify Condition 122 by either deleting section 122(e) which relates a requirement to register a Positive Covenant on the lots requiring dwellings to be constructed to a minimum A-weighted noise reduction of 25 dB for living areas and 38 dB for sleeping areas, or alternatively, to amend this condition to nominate internal noise limits in accordance with Australian Standards and NSW policies.

Any person may, during the period specified above, make a submission in writing to Council in relation to the Modification Application. Where a submission is in the form of an objection, then the grounds of objection are required to be specified.

In accordance with Clause 118 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021, there is no right of appeal under Section 8.8 of the Act by an objector.

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 at tweed.nsw.gov.au/development-applications

tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

tweed.nsw.gov.au

Subscribe to the Tweed Link online at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe or follow Council on:

By Jonathon Howard

TWEED RIVER Water Ski Club president Peter Monger says he does not believe a blanket ban on ski boats on the Tweed River is the answer to address landowners’ erosion concerns.

Instead, Mr Monger said a more diplomatic approach is needed and he’s eager to work with Mr Shoobridge, other landowners, and water users to achieve the best outcomes.

Mr Monger emphasised that the Tweed River has long been home to water ski and boating activities and a blanket ban on these activities is not the answer.

“We would like to work with everyone on the river and keep a positive dialogue,” he said.

“The Ski Club does not believe a blanket ban on speed boats is needed on the Tweed River.

“Instead, we need to educate and communicate the needs to other river users including visitors.”

Mr Monger said he has undertaken education with boat users and found 99 per cent are open and compliant to the requests of locals.

“We have seen a dramatic decrease in the number of general speed boat users in the Tumbulgum to Murwillumbah stretch of river,” he said.

“Since COVID-19 the numbers have dropped and it’s difficult to say why.”

Mr Monger said riverbank erosion studies have been undertaken many times and “it happens due to flood more so than the speed boats”.

“Floods and tides are the biggest eroders of the riverbanks,” he said. “This is evident after every flood.

“In fact, there’s evidence of this upstream where you will find more erosion upstream

and no boat activity whatsoever.”

Mr Monger said ski boats put out less wash due to the planing effects of the boat’s hull once up to speed.

“The wake boats have a bigger wash to create the waves,” he said.

“However, we do not see a lot of wake boats in the Tumbulgum to Murwillumbah run, we find more wake boats at Fingal Head and Chinderah through to Tweed Heads.

“As far as Murwillumbah Tweed River Water Ski Club, we believe the river should remain open to everyone to be able to use.

“As long as we work together and continue to educate and communicate we can maintain the health of the river.

“As far as Queenslanders are concerned, we are a border region and we welcome their visit and their investment in this area.

“There have been no recent changes to water skiing and wakeboarding restrictions in Queensland.

“We need to restrict our rivalry to State of Origin and leave it there, they are welcome as we are in Queensland.”

No need for river bans Hospital denies damage

By Jo Kennett

NSW HEALTH Infrastructure has denied reports that building materials containing black mould were put into the new hospital and then had to be removed.

The Weekly has been contacted by and spoken to several people who said that building materials for the Tweed Valley Hospital, currently under construction by Lendlease, were left out in the open, uncovered, for weeks on end.

Those residents said the materials, used for the interiors, were put straight into the new hospital building before having to be removed due to the growth of black mould.

The Weekly contacted Health Infrastructure to ask if they were aware of the problem and if NSW Health Infrastructure was being charged extra by Lendlease to replace the materials.

The department was also asked if the removal of material would delay the opening of the hospital.

A Health Infrastructure spokesperson said the claims were not true.

“The Tweed Valley Hospital remains on target to open to patients in late 2023,” the spokes -

person said.

“Safety is the number one priority and Health Infrastructure and its contractor Lendlease are committed to ensuring the health and safety of workers and the community.

“No defective materials have been installed in the Tweed Valley Hospital development.

“During 2022 there was unprecedented wet weather conditions, which resulted in minor water damage to some internal finishes within the building.

“The affected areas were isolated, and hygienists were engaged to rectify the issues.

“Damaged materials were removed and replaced in accordance with legislative requirements.”

The Weekly also contacted Lendlease but received no response in time for print.

Water skiing has a long and rich history in the Tweed Shire and it's not causing erosion, says the local Water Ski Club

No school merger

By Yvonne Gardiner

FOUR MURWILLUMBAH schools that were set to merge will now stay open, thanks to the Australian Labor Party’s resounding win in both the seat of Lismore and in the state as a whole.

Re-elected Lismore MP Janelle Saffin romped home with a 14.1 per cent swing at close of counting on Tuesday night. She said with Labor in government, she could deliver the election commitments secured from Premier Chris Minns and his team during the campaign.

“Yes the commitment was to keep the four (Murwillumbah) schools open,” Ms Saffin said.

“The upgrade of Murwillumbah High School will of course proceed as it is in train, and I stated that before the election, but it will not now have to accommodate four school communities.

“I shall very soon have the conversation with the Minister-elect Prue Car and of course with the school communities.

On Monday, Ms Saffin announced that she was straight back to work in the office, fighting for communities across the Lismore electorate.

“Lots of issues to follow up for local people and community needs that I am putting forward strongly to the new government,” she said.

“The win means I carry forward the hope and faith that people have put in me to be their representative and I do feel the responsibility to represent us all without fear or favour.

“I really am honoured to carry forward the rebuild, recovery and all the other day-to-day issues that impact local lives.”

While Ms Saffin was the clear winner

on election night, by close of counting on Tuesday night, on a two-candidate preferred basis, she had secured a convincing 23,426 (66%) of votes.

Her closest contender was the Nationals’ Alex Rubin with 12,054 (34%) of the 42,318 (73.7%) votes counted.

Of the first preference votes, Ms Saffin claimed 18,617 (45.2%), Mr Rubin 11,632 (28.2%) and the Greens’ Adam Guise 5,798 (14.1%).

Mr Rubin wished Ms Saffin “happy hunting” in the coming term of government.

“We hope that the recovery for our region will gain traction and that we will see real results delivered to the people, on the wide-ranging promises made during the election,” he said.

“This was a very different election. The frustration within the community was evident during campaigning and again registered at the ballot box.

“We ran a budget campaign, after making a principled decision not to seek donations from a disaster-affected community.

“This did mean that we were outspent three to one, and had to fight an uphill battle to get our message ‘out there’ during the campaign.

“The message that voters sent to us was clear, they want to see greater action on recovery, and they were dissatisfied with the performance and scandals of the previous federal and NSW Coalition governments.”

Mr Rubin told The Weekly he was proud to have run a campaign with integrity and honesty.

“I am humbled by the support and assistance provided to our campaign effort across the region. I would like to thank our community for the opportunity to run in this election, and the confidence that has

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been shown by our election results. We will be back in 2027,” he said.

Ms Saffin also thanked voters in the electorate of Lismore for their support.

“I am very mindful of the trust you have put in me and will not let you down,” she said. “I am ready to work.”

Ms Saffin listed her priorities in the Tweed Shire — to deliver more affordable housing, to have a 24/7 police presence in Murwillumbah, flood recovery, and ensure staffing levels at Murwillumbah District Hospital.

“There are more, but these ones will be rolled out as soon as possible,” she told The Weekly.

“There is of course the establishment of the Energy Corporation to roll out and hopefully ramp up renewables, removal of the wages cap for paramedics and other frontline staff, and the cessation of the privatisation of our public assets.”

Line of Coins is coming back to the main street of Murwillumbah next week and it's for a great cause. The above image was taken in 2019 and featured in The Weekly

Line of Coins

GET A pocket of coins and notes ready for the return of the iconic Line of Coins fundraiser on Thursday, April 6.

The event, hosted by Murwillumbah Lions Club, will return out the front of the Dinki Di Discount Store in Murwillumbah’s main street from 8am to 2pm.

Murwillumbah Lions Club vice president Ellen Reid said she’s hoping the community will get behind the long-running fundraiser which is celebrating its 54th year.

Ms Reid said people passing by can toss a coin or note on a chalk line on the footpath.

Line of Coins was started by Ron Mapp in 1969 and Cleam Hunting was the second operator.

The Line of Coins has in the past supported such worthy causes as Wedgetail Retreat and many others over the years.

Ms Reid extended a big “thank you” to Dinki Di Discount store. “We’re hoping to exceed our previous record of $2,000, so bring your coins and notes,” she said.

The NSW Government is offering a new way to assist people on low incomes with their power bills by installing free solar systems for eligible households in place of their Low Income Household Rebate. This program aims to improve energy affordability by helping households unlock long terms savings on their electricity bills. While this means you will no longer receive the $285 annual rebate on your electricity bill, you could receive up to $600 in savings per year from your new solar system!

The offer is only available to households that live in the specified regions and meet the eligibility criteria. When participating in this program households will receive a free, fully installed 3kW solar system in place of their Low Income Household Rebate.

SAE Group are the approved provider, designing and installing solar systems to eligible homes in your region.

To be eligible you must:

- Currently be receiving the Low Income Household Rebate

- Agree not to receive the rebate for ten years

- Own your own home

- Not already have a solar PV system

- Hold a valid Pensioner Concession Card or a Department of Veteran Affairs Gold Card

- If you are not the registered homeowner, but your spouse is, you may be considered eligible collectively as a household

A 3kW system is designed to generate an average of 12.6kwh per day, which will deliver electricity savings depending on each household’s energy consumption. Managing Director of SAE Group Glen Ashton comments “We know electricity bills continue to place a lot of pressure on households, and we are pleased to be working with the NSW Government to help ease the pressure on low income households.”

SAE Group are an Australian owned and operated organisation with over ten years’ experience in the solar industry. SAE Group are a Clean Energy Council Approved Retailer, and hold accreditations ISO 9001, ISO 45001 for safety and quality systems. Safety is paramount to us, and it our goal to ensure we provide quality solar systems to eligible households that will deliver ongoing savings for many years to come.

Want to find out more?

Visit: https://energysaver.nsw.gov.au/solar-low-income-households to check your eligibility and apply online or visit www.saegroup.com.au or call us on 02 66 389 439. The Solar for Low Income Household Offer is supported by the NSW Government.

Janelle Saffin is your MP for Lismore

Save our Coast campaign

By Yvonne Gardiner

THE NSW Greens are on a mission to reform the state’s coastal planning system. The Greens’ report Concreting the Coast — Fighting Inappropriate Development includes 20 case studies.

Re-elected Upper House MP for the Greens and its planning spokesperson, Cate Faehrmann, presented her case before an audience at Kingscliff on March 15.

“Along the length of the coast, community groups are fighting destructive and inappropriate developments which threaten to overwhelm small coastal villages and wipe out vast tracts of bushland that surrounds them,” Ms Faehrmann said.

“Everywhere you look, our precious coast is disappearing under concrete and houses crammed together like sardines.

“We’re not talking about a couple of small bush blocks here. We’re talking about the destruction of large areas of ecologically sensitive bushland, as well as untold damage to Aboriginal cultural heritage across the state.

“If it’s not stopped, our beautiful NSW coast will be unrecognisable in a matter of just a few years.”

Ms Faehrmann said the state government should no longer allow the building of homes in these risky locations.

“The last four years have shown just how much the climate crisis is affecting our homes, with more extreme and frequent weather events now the new normal,” she said.

“The catastrophic floods that Kingscliff, Tumbulgum and surrounding areas experienced should have been the end for any proposed development on floodplains.

“I’m calling on the state government to

step in and rule out any developments on flood-prone land, especially after the O’Kane and Fuller Flood Inquiry recommended just that.

“After visiting the proposed sites last year, it beggars belief how anyone can get approval to fill and develop wetlands.

These wetlands, some of the last remaining in the area, act as sponges and ponds to help mitigate flood impacts on the surrounding community.

“Concreting them over will exacerbate the impact of future floods, to the detriment of the residents of Kingscliff and Tumbulgum.”

Many of these proposed developments in NSW are off the back of ‘zombie DAs’ that were approved decades ago, avoiding any need to undertake the type of environmental or cultural heritage impact scrutiny required today.

“All approvals for zombie DAs must be revoked and reassessed under today’s planning and environmental laws,” Ms Faehrmann said.

In a statement to ABC Illawarra in January this year, the NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) said

Career change

A 43-YEAR-OLD Pottsville local is heaping praise on Kingscliff TAFE for helping her change career paths from tourism to photography.

Tourism took a major hit during the COVID-19 pandemic and Susy Goldsworthy decided to take the leap into self-employment. In fact, business registrations skyrocketed during the pandemic to a 26 per cent increase of the previous year’s numbers in NSW. Having a passion for photography, Susy enrolled in a Diploma in Photography and Certificate IV in Marketing and Communication at Kingscliff TAFE.

Susy launched her business, What Susy Sees, specialising in fashion and beauty photography and portraits.

“Initially, I thought I’d study photography to develop a hobby and explore a passion, but I loved it so much that I decided to pursue it as a career path,” she said.

a development consent lapsed after five years, unless work had “physically commenced”.

Planning regulations had been amended to help halt zombie DAs.

The DPE also said councils could intervene if community expectations were not met.

“If land zoning doesn’t meet current community expectations or isn’t reflecting current knowledge about environmental significance, or hazards like bushfire or flooding, councils should take action,” the department statement said.

“Councils already have the legal power under the EP&A Act to revoke or modify development consents that are out of step with the provisions of any proposed local planning controls.”

Cate Faehrmann was re-elected to the Legislative Council at last Saturday’s NSW poll.

“I don’t think people are aware of just what is going on,” she told her Kingscliff audience.

“Developers are getting their way and they are going to absolutely destroy coastal NSW.”

With the success of her business, Susy has worked with notable brands, including sustainable swimwear labels Alulu and Chia Swim. She says her studies opened her eyes to uncapped opportunity.

TAFE NSW head teacher of Creative and Design Ideation, Sandra Guy, said Susy is a prime example of the opportunities TAFE NSW provides.

If you’re wanting a career change, or to find out more, please phone: 13 16 01.

Greens Upper House MP Cate Faehrmann (left), with Tweed Greens candidate Ciara Denham in Kingscliff, is calling for a moratorium on development in coastal areas.

Shot for Chia Swim by Susy at What Susy Sees. Inset is Susy

Truck driver death

By Jo Kennett

LOCAL RESIDENTS have been left traumatised after witnessing a truck accident near Brunswick Heads on Friday, March 24, which resulted in the death of the 26-year-old driver.

The accident happened at the Gulgan Road (Mullumbimby) off-ramp to the Pacific Motorway (northbound) at 6am.

Two witnesses who were first on the scene rushed to free the driver from the B-double truck but it was engulfed in flames following the impact and the driver died at the scene.

Police said he is yet to be formally identified.

One Tweed Shire resident The Weekly spoke to said she had nightmares after seeing the truck on fire and hearing what had happened, while others took to social media to share their shock and sadness at having witnessed the accident. Tweed District Rescue Squad’s Drew Carr and his fellow volunteers have attended countless accidents including fatalities.

He said anyone who witnessed or was a first responder at the accident needed to monitor

their mental health.

“Look after yourself and most importantly engage with your friends and family,” he said.

“If witnesses are feeling sad or suffering from mental distress regarding an incident, you should get in contact with psychological support services through your GP or contact Lifeline or those types of services for assistance.

“There are all sorts of programs and facilities for people experiencing trauma.”

Police officers attached to Tweed-Byron Police District are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.

A crime scene was established and one northbound lane of the Pacific Motorway was closed for several hours, with motorists urged to avoid the area.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

If you are having difficulty coping you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

A truck driver was sadly killed after a fire engulfed his vehicle. Image by Seven News

Tweed Citizen of the Year Joan Henderson on Refugees

ACROSS THE country, at kitchen tables and computer desks in rural communities all around Australia, something quite amazing is happening.

From Warwick to Yackandandah, Tasmania to our own Tweed Valley, rural people are working desperately to help people in Afghanistan who are at the most grave risk.

These Australians keep in touch online whenever possible, trying to keep people’s spirits up and their hopes alive. They are forging strong friendships with some of the most persecuted people in the world.

They help with complex visa applications and fundraise tirelessly to enable people facing starvation to feed their families.

It all began at the fall of Kabul in August 2021 when Rural Australians for Refugees received an urgent plea to sponsor individuals at highest risk for humanitarian visas to Australia.

Twenty-two rural groups, including Uki and Ballina, answered the call and applied to sponsor over 100 individuals and families. At that terrifying time, it was hoped that people could be immediately airlifted out of the country.

However, the allied forces suddenly ceased evacuations.

More than six months prior, veterans had been urging governments around the world to act early and begin evacuating people, but instead we witnessed the horror of people desperately clinging to the undercarriages of planes and falling from the sky.

The people who have applied for sponsored visas include doctors, lawyers, judges, educators, interpreters, women’s rights activists, police, special forces officers, UN and NGO workers.

They protected Australian workers and kept them safe.

They courageously stood up for human rights,

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democracy and freedom, as we encouraged them to do. And now they are left completely abandoned and exposed.

The danger to them is intensified as the Taliban possess a handheld scanning system called HIIDE with which they can pull people over anywhere, scan their irises and fingerprints, and identify precisely who they are. There is nowhere to hide.

For many it has now been over 18 months since applications to Australia were lodged and they continue to be actively hunted down. They have received file numbers and acknowledgements from Australia that their applications are valid. Yet still they wait.

You can help in this important work by contacting our government to let them know that after 20 years of involvement in Afghanistan, Australia needs to urgently prioritise the processing of visas for Afghan people.

Australia owes these courageous people our loyalty and protection.

For further information please visit: ruralaustraliansforrefugees.org.au or ukirefugeeproject. org

The withdrawal from Afghanistan has left the country in ruins and many lives are in danger

Catch up with newly elected Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin

Saffin hits the ground running

THE recent NSW election was, from my point of view, a very civil affair, and I thank all involved — my fellow candidates, volunteer campaign teams, the media, and of course, the voters who exercised their democratic rights.

Counting continued at the time of writing but I’m ready to serve a second four-year term as your State Member for Lismore in a Minns Labor Government so that all of my election commitments, large and small, can be delivered.

Two key commitments for Murwillumbah are:

•Keeping open Murwillumbah’s four public schools, consulting all school communities on infrastructure upgrades, including the continuation of Murwillumbah High’s capital works.

•Additional policing resources for Murwillumbah Police Station, starting with $3.7 million for recruitment of additional officers, provision of other services and upgrades, and an implementation plan to make Murwillumbah Police Station 24/7. It remains a great honour to represent the people of our electorate of Lismore.

I welcomed two other NSW Labor election commitments which I believe will make a real difference here in the Northern Rivers region.

A Minns Labor Government will employ an additional 100 frontline National Parks & Wildlife Service staff to tackle uncontrolled weeds and pests, including feral deer, maintain fire trails and support

firefighting efforts.

The latest State of the Environment report found pest and invasive weed species cost the NSW economy at least $2 billion a year, with invasives now threatening 70 per cent of threatened native species in NSW. They also heavily impact on farmers’ productivity.

The new staffing commitment builds on Labor’s announcement of a $10-million Good Neighbour Program to end 12 years of Coalition neglect by tackling weeds and pests on public land neighbouring privately held land.

The future of Landcare has been assured with the announcement that a Minns Labor Government will boost its funding to a record $59 million over the next four years to support the 60,000 volunteers,

Students excelling

BOGANGAR PUBLIC School students have achieved outstanding results in the pool as part of the North Coast Swimming Championships.

The school’s assistant principal Alyson McIntyre wrote to The Weekly to share the news with readers and heap praise on the students’ outstanding efforts.

NORTHERN NSW’S

RANGE OF CUB CADET MOWERS

3,000 local groups and 84 full-time coordinators across NSW.

I lobbied hard to secure this NSW Labor commitment on behalf of the North Coast Regional Landcare Network and all local Landcare groups within our electorate.

The network’s chairperson Jim Kinkead briefed me on the need for more funding so that Landcare coordinators and volunteers can continue their great work with landholders across the Northern Rivers and Northern Tablelands regions.

The network is made up of 11 catchment/local government area-based local Landcare Networks from the Tweed to the Hastings which support best practices for managing land and water across all landscapes for a healthy environment.

“Congratulations to the amazing efforts of these students who approached every race with a smile, gave it their everything and set lots of personal bests,” Ms McIntyre said. “You should be extremely proud of yourselves.”

A total of 14 students hit the pool in a fierce competition, with plenty of fun, cheering and encouragement from the side of the pool.

“We all gave each race our everything with lots of personal bests set,” Ms McIntyre said.

Bogangar Public School competes under the banner of Far North Coast and this year the Far North Coast zone won the carnival.

“As a school we placed fourth overall,” she said.

Ms McIntyre said ten “very excited” students who placed in the top three of their events are heading to Sydney Olympic Aquatic Centre in early April to participate in the NSW Primary Schools Sports Association Swimming Championships. The students are as follows:

•8yrs 50m freestyle — Olive and Isla

•10yrs 50m freestyle — Piper

•Junior 50m backstroke — Piper

•Junior 50 breaststroke — Piper

•11yrs 50m butterfly — Krista

•Junior girls 4 x 50m freestyle relay — Aurora, Bonnie, Piper and Lamani

•Senior girls 4 x 50m freestyle relay — Krista, Sadie, Sophie and Xienna

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin and volunteers celebrate election victory on Saturday.

Image by Cathy Adams, of the Lismore City News

Bogangar Public School students are amazing at swimming and they're heading to Sydney

Farewell to a local

By Jo Kennett

THE TWEED Shire community has been rocked by the tragic loss of Cudgen farmer Doug Paddon, a pioneer who contributed hugely to the community and “gave 200 percent” to everything he did in life, according to his wife Lyn.

Doug will always be remembered for his sweet potato and corn stall near the intersection of Tweed Coast Road and Plantation Drive and was also known as the ‘watermelon man’. Everyone who met him found him unfailingly kind and down-to-earth. Lyn said Doug, who even in the middle of winter could be found working barefoot around his farm, “always treated people from all walks of life the same.”

Lyn described Doug as her “beautiful soulmate” and kindly shared his eulogy from his funeral on Wednesday, March 29.

Doug Paddon was born in 1944 at Glen Innes. His maternal grandparents were Frank and Irene Julius who owned a dairy farm beside Cudgen School where his mum had lived all her life.

Doug’s parents took up a soldier settlement block in Glen Innes and established a successful sheep property.

“When Doug was three and his brother John was five they sold the farm and moved back to

the Tweed as the weather was far too cold for their mum up there,” Lyn said.

They bought a cane farm at Condong and their youngest brother, Ken, was born in Murwillumbah.

“Doug’s claim to fame was that he wasn’t very bright because he had to repeat kindergarten,” Lyn said.

“He was always a prankster.”

Doug went to Murwillumbah High School and then completed a carpentry/joinery apprenticeship at J.J. Williams Joinery Works and topped the course.

“I first met Doug at Danceland at Coolangatta when I was 16 and he was 18,” she said.

“Doug came across and asked a girl about four seats along from me and she turned him down, then the next and the next.

“Then he asked me, and I accepted. I think we both must have been pretty desperate! I was just reminiscing now, those other girls were the losers, I got a gem!”

Doug and Lyn married on April 9, 1966, at All Saints Anglican Church, Murwillumbah.

They bought “a little half-built house on a large block of land on the river coming into Murwillumbah, just past the sugar mill, with our savings” of 1800 pounds ($3,600).

Their daughter Kim was born in 1968.

“We sold the house for $8,900 and bought our first farm, 25 acres at Cudgen where we are now with the profit and borrowed from the bank the balance,” Lyn said.

“The farm cost us $21,000. It was very run down and had an old house on it.

“James (Jim) our first son was born in 1971 and Stephen (Haz) in 1973.

“Doug was happy then. He had his daughter and two sons to become farmers if they wanted to be.

“Around 1976 we had a bumper season of peas and a good price. Doug said ‘I will build

is calling all residents

It Takes a Town would like to invite you to participate in Imagine 2484. A year-on from the worst flooding in our region’s history, what might it be like to turn our gaze away from crisis, towards imagining futures where everyone and everything is thriving? The type of future we would most like to live in.

It Takes a Town is hosting a shopfront for residents, schools, clubs, groups, notfor-profits and business owners, to come together and build a shared vision of a better future. A vision that will guide us as our community continues to recover. A vision that will inform government planning and the work of community organisations for years to come.

We would like to invite you (and your family or friends) to participate in a conversation at the shopfront. Working alongside others, you’ll contribute to answering the following questions:

1. What does a thriving, regenerative and safe future for Murwillumbah and villages look and feel like?

2. What strategies and actions will take us towards this future?

3. What strengths and opportunities presently exist in our community, that can help us create a safe, thriving and regenerative future?

THANKS

Dates:

Conversation 1: Wed, 5 April 10am-11.30am

Conversation 2: Sat, 15 April 4pm-5.30pm

Conversation 3: Fri, 28 April 5pm-6.30pm

Where: Small Works Gallery, 8 Commercial Road, Murwillumbah

Cost: Free (but bookings essential due to limited space)

BYO: Drinks &/or food welcome

MORE INFO: Contact Carmen on 0438 140 589 or carmen@ittakesatown.org.au

Easter In My Church

EASTER, also called Pascha, (Aramaic, Greek, Latin) or Resurrection Sunday, is a Christian festival and cultural holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, described in the New Testament as having occured on the third day of his burial following his crucifixion by the Romans at Calvary c. 30 AD. It is the culmination of the Passion of Jesus, preceded by Lent (or Great Lent), a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance.

JESUS SAID TO HER, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; whoever lives and believes in me will never die.”

– John 11:25-26.

Sacred Heart Parish Murwillumbah

Easter Ceremonies in our Parish

We invite you to share in the various Easter ceremonies in our Parish

Holy Thursday - 6 April

7:00 pm - Celebration of the Lord’s Supper followed by Adoration

Good Friday - 7 April

9:00 am - Stations of the Cross

3:00 pm - Solemn Celebration Lord’s Passion

Easter Vigil - 8April

7:00 pm - Easter Vigil

Easter Sunday - 9 April

9:00 am - Mass

All Easter Ceremonies will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Murwillumbah Street, Murwillumbah. May all our hearts be lled with hope, peace and love this Easter as we remember the sacri ce made by Jesus Christ our Saviour for every one of us. e Sacred Heart Catholic Community wishes you a gentle, quiet and relaxing Easter. Spend time with your loved ones and let the sun shine on your face. May God bless you. Fr Peter Wood | Parish Administrator

Anglican Parish of Murwillumbah Easter Services

All Saints, Murwillumbah

Anglican Parish of Murwillumbah

Palm Sunday 2nd April at 8.30 am

Holy Communion

Easter Services

Maundy ursday 6th April at 7 pm

Looking for Jesus in all the wrong places.

As an absent-minded child, I frequently misplaced things. I can remember my mother’s constant refrain each time I told her I had lost something; “where did you last leave it?” I always thought this was a silly question, for if I knew where I last le it, it wouldn’t be lost! I’ve since realized that what mum was trying to do was to get me to retrace my steps, in order to relocate whatever it was I had misplaced.

Looking for Jesus in all the wrong places.

Holy Communion

All Saints, Murwillumbah

Good Friday 7th April at 8.30 am

Service of the Nails

Maundy Thursday 14th April at 7pm

Holy Communion

Easter Sunday 9th April at 8.30 am

Service of the Light

Good Friday 15th April at 8 30 am

Service of the Nails

Holy Trinity, Uki

Good Friday 7th April at 9.00 am

Easter Day 17th April at 8 30 am

Now whilst this is typically an e ective way to nd what has been lost, it is not always the case. e women who went to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body with spices and ointments (cf. Luke 24:1), whom they had lost to the cruel cross of cruci xion, took this exact approach. ey retraced their steps back to where they saw the tomb in which the body of Jesus was laid (cf. Matthew 27:61), but to their astonishment, the tomb was empty, for he had risen from the dead!

As an absent -minded child, I frequently misplaced things. I can remember my mother ’s constant refrain each time I told her I had lost something; where did you last leave it?” I always thought this was a silly question, for if I knew where I last left it, it wouldn ’t be lost! I’ve since realized that what mum was trying to do was to get me to retrace my steps, in order to relocate whatever it was I had misplaced.

2000 years a er this earthshattering event, many are still looking for Jesus in all the wrong places. For example, there are those who regard Jesus as one of the greatest religious teachers who has ever lived, even as one who lived the most in uential life the world had even known, but then he died, and that was that. is simply will not do.

Jesus is not dead, for he has risen and his resurrection con rms that he is not merely an historical gure, but the living Lord over the entire universe.

Now whilst this is typically an effective way to find what has been lost, it is not always the case. The women who went to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body with spices and ointments (cf. Luke 24:1), whom they had lost to the cruel cross of crucifixion, took this exact approach. They retraced their steps back to where they saw the tomb in which the body of Jesus was laid (cf. Matthew 27:61), but to their astonishment, the tomb was empty, for he had risen from the dead!

A er numerous other failed attempts to locate the so-called ‘real Jesus’, it is not surprising to nd him right back where we le him, as the risen, living Lord of the universe, just as the eyewitness accounts of the New Testament testify. It seems my mum was right a er all.

Service of the Light

Easter Sunday 9th April at 9.00 am

St John’s, Tyalgum

Easter Sunday 17th April at 10 00 am

Holy Trinity, Uki

2000 years after this earthshattering event, many are still looking for Jesus in all the wrong places. For example, there are those who regard Jesus as one of the greatest religious teachers who has ever lived, even as one who lived the most influential life the world had even known, but then he died, and that was that.

Easter Blessings, Rev Lyndon, Anglican Rector of Murwillumbah

This simply will not do. Jesus is not dead, for he has risen and his resurrection confirms that he is not merely an historical figure, but the living Lord over the entire universe. After numerous other failed attempts to locate the so -called ‘real Jesus’, it is not surprising to find him right back where we left him, as the risen, living Lord of the universe, just as the eyewitness accounts of the New

Easter In My Church

Tweed

2-4 Byangum Road, Murwillumbah

GOOD FRIDAY 7TH APRIL

Murwillumbah – 8:30am

EASTER SATURDAY 8TH APRIL

From 9am in Burringbar village – Easter Buns given out EASTER SUNDAY 9TH APRIL

Easter celebrates God’s love.

Jesus is alive, Hallelujah!

9.30am Murwillumbah (no service Burringbar)

An Easter Reflection

Good Friday and Easter Sunday

You are most welcome to come and celebrate with us at the Murwillumbah Church of Christ, 18 William Street, Murwillumbah

Good Friday (7th April) 9.30am Pastor Chris Jenkins

e Glory of Christ

Easter Sunday (9th April) 9.30am Pastor Allan Webb

From doubt to faith

Both services will be followed by morning tea and hot cross buns. You are most welcome.

LIVING IN RESURRECTION POWER

ByRobert&HelgaSpence

He is risen! What a special day we celebrate on Resurrection Sunday —what love, what power!

On Resurrection Sunday, we commemorate the death and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. He endured the horrors of the Cross and defeated death willingly, in order to provide anyone who will accept it with abundant life—now and for eternity. When Jesus arose from the dead after being crucified, a voice echoed through the universe, “It is finished!”

Even though Easter is celebrated by most people only once each year, we are meant to live and operate in resurrection power every day. When the power of God raised Christ from the dead, He won for us the victory forever. Now, it’s up to you to live in the finished work of the cross.

Why not worship him this easter Sunday to celebrate all He has done so that you can live in resurrection power.

JupiterRising JupiterRising

Soloists

Michael Haydn: Sinfonia in C (Perger 19) Final Movement

W. A. Mozart: Sinfonia Concertante for Violin and Viola K364

W. A. Mozart: Symphony No.41 (Jupiter)

Date: Sunday 30th April 2023

Date: Time: Pre-concert Introduc�on & Aria, presented by Ayesha Gough & Marco Bellasi 1.45pm CONCERT - 2.30pm

Venue: Tweed Heads Civic Centre, Bre� Street, Tweed Heads NSW

Tickets: Adults: $50 | Concession $45 Students $20 | Children under 18 years free of charge (When accompanied by an adult)

Tickets can be purchased at:

Online

Murwillumbah Music 02 6672 5404 (credit card facility) Tickets also available at the door if not sold out (cash or credit card).

Enquiries: 0478 012 324

From the Farm

with Craig Huff

NSW Farmers - Far North Coast Branch

OVER THE past 20 years North Coast farmers have faced a raft of new regulations and compliance requirements to contend with as part of their day-to-day operations.

Many requirements seem to be dreamed up by academics with fashionable ideologies and very little real world commercial experience.

A development application (DA) is now being required to perform numerous activities which were once standard practice.

Tweed Shire Council’s requirement for a DA for the poisoning of more than 20 camphor laurel trees is one that springs to mind.

One old farmer in the Tweed recently came up to me and said: “Ya know, the way things are heading we will have to get a DA to take a .... each morning.”

To which I replied: “Well you better learn to hold on because it’s taking two years to get a DA approved.”

In the recent census farmers were identified as having the longest hours of any occupation. Most farmers have become very aware of the benefit and need to be good custodians of the environment and feel the burden of compliance creates even longer days and is for the most part unnecessary.

As another farmer who has been actively planting large areas of fauna habitat said: “We need governments to support farmers and reinforce the viability of their farms and not create further obstacles for them to achieve their incomes. I believe farmers are the better curators of their country as its in their long-term interests.”

Ultimately the burden of compliance is a cost for anyone who buys food.

The more burdened our local farmers are the less competitive our local foods are compared to imports.

I was trying to buy Australian frozen blueberries at our IGA the other day and no luck!

Putting our farmers at the forefront

There are tonnes grown in our local areas, but the Chinese and Polish products can be sold more competitively! Our local farmers can’t compete even with the freight advantage!

After our recent launch of the Far North Coast Branch of NSW Farmers, membership continues to grow strongly.

As word gets out more and more local growers in the Northern Rivers region are joining to have a stronger voice to make better policy.

NSW Farmers’ Association has a strong advocacy team at head office to provide back up for producers.

If you’re a farmer and you don’t have time to attend meetings, membership is still a great investment toward your farming future to ensure your right to farm in a viable way is protected. Editor’s note: The Weekly would like to introduce our new ‘From the Farm’ column with NSW Farmers - Far North Coast Branch chair Craig Huff. Mr Huff is passionate about the Northern Rivers farming communities and is eager to discuss topics impacting the agriculturalsector.Expecthiscolumnmonthly.

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra

Conductor - Marco Bellasi

- Daniel Kowalik - Violin Thomas Chawner - Viola

NORTHERN RIVERS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PROUDLY PRESENTS

Introducing NSW Farmers - Far North Coast Branch chair Craig Huff and his monthly column

By Brad Nardi

FOLLOWING THE melancholic milestone that was the first anniversary of the devastating 2022 February flooding event, there have been a number of good news stories to celebrate for tourism in the region.

Pulling together to get through challenges and collectively celebrating our wins is important, and ultimately a testament to the resilient and positive nature of our remarkable Tweed community.

Firstly, a huge shout to all of our Tweed region finalists at the recent Australian Tourism Awards including North Star Holiday Resort and Tweed Eco Cruises, both of whom won gold at the NSW Tourism Awards to earn their place. The big story on the night was Peter Burr and the wonderful Potager team winning Silver in the Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services category – a sensational result on the national stage that is highly deserved and adds to Potager’s long list of accolades!

We’re also still celebrating the recent

Tourism update Better By Bike Tweed launch

launch of the much-anticipated Northern Rivers Rail Trail, with the Tweed section the first to open to walkers, riders and nature-lovers - and a well-earned nod here goes to the Tweed Shire Council for leading the delivery of this significant project for the region.

The trail has not only been embraced by locals, with a great Community Celebration held last weekend, but we’re loving how visitors are travelling to the region to explore the trail and surrounding villages and experiences. We’ve also had significant media interest with a number of travel writers coming to experience the trail for upcoming articles in the NZ Herald, Explore magazine and more.

This kind of travel editorial is key to generating positive awareness and sustained visitation for the region and it’s fair to say that the Tweed has been a hot topic in national travel publications since we hosted the Australian Society of Travel Writers (ASTW) Convention late last year.

There have been major features on the Tweed in Traveller, reaching weekend

audiences in Sydney and Melbourne, in the national Escape publication and in Explore magazine, all direct outcomes of the ASTW Convention’s media-hosting program.

You may also have seen the latest edition of NRMA’s Open Road Magazine with our region this month’s front cover star, alongside a brilliant eight-page feature article written by Marian McGuinness who was a guest of our ASTW media visits.

Looking ahead, our team is attending the Australian Tourism Exchange, Australia’s largest travel trade event, which is coming to the Gold Coast from 30 April to 4 May. As part of our longer-term international focus, we’ll be meeting with retail travel partners from around the world and also connecting with global media leads.

For now, we wish you and your family happy Easter holidays ahead and keep an eye out for our ‘100% Fun Things To Do’ campaign for great holiday activity ideas over the coming weeks!

SOUVENIRS

“A delightful programme of timeless works presented by Gold Coast Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Marco Bellasi, with guest soloists Margaret Blades and Daniel Kowalik. Along with a duo for two violins and strings by Steve Reich, they will be performing the Concerto for Two Violins, Strings and Continuo in A minor KV 523 by the great Italian Baroque master, Antonio Vivaldi. Janacek’s Suite for String orchestra and Arensky’s Variations on a Theme by Tchaikovsky complete this beautiful programme. This is a concert not to be missed.”

AN EXCITING new bike hire and shuttle transport provider has recently launched on the Tweed Shire and is serving the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.

Better By Bike offers a self-guided experience for customers in Tweed Heads, Kingscliff and Byron areas.

The company provides self-guided rentals of high-end Moustache E-Bikes, and a return shuttle to take you to the start of the trail and back.

The bikes come fully setup with helmets, a gel seat for comfort, panniers to carry your stuff, a light for the tunnel, map and the bikes are personalised for fit to ensure you have a great ride.

Experienced tour operators Matt Hirst and Campbell Shepherd have more than 60 years combined tourism industry experience have replicated a service Better By Bike has been offering in New Zealand for over 10 years on the Cycle Trails in Queenstown and the Southern Lakes region.

Mr Hirst said the first option is, you can ride from Crabbes Creek to Murwillumbah train station which is 24km and takes anywhere from 1.5 hours to three hours depending on the number and length of stops.

“Alternatively, for the same price, you can do the return journey to the pickup point in Mooball which is a total 45kms,” he said. “This return trip will take anywhere from three to five hours again depending on stops made along the way.”

“The E-bike rental and shuttle together cost $149.”

Better By Bike offer a comprehensive website: www.betterbybike.com.au, which has a lot of information on what you can see along the route and covers the yet non-operational parts of the trail under construction or at the feasibility stage.

Better By Bike also have children covered. For more information please check out the front page of this week’s edition.

FEATURING VIVALDI’S CONCERTO FOR 2 VIOLINS AND STRINGS IN A MINOR

KV 523 SOLOISTS: MARGARET BLADES AND DANIEL KOWALIK

CONDUCTOR: MARCO BELLASI

SUNDAY 14TH MAY 2.30PM

MURWILLUMBAH CIVIC CENTRE

10-14 TUMBULGUM ROAD MURWILLUMBAH

EVENT INFO BUY TICKETS ADULTS $45 CONCESSION $40

STUDENTS: $20

STUDENTS UNDER 18 FREE

The official opening of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail (Tweed Shire) has been a game changer for the local tourism sector

ANOTHER CRACKING weekend of footy with plenty of talking points.

One has to be the introduction of technology for forward passes.

Manly were robbed of a bad one on the weekend and highlighted the need to introduce what’s available to ensure we don’t have howlers like this one.

The golden point classic on Thursday night was all quality.

Cleary’s field goal was superb and was followed up by Moses finally icing the game.

He’s on lots of money Moses and needs to aim

up and produce for the Eels more regularly.

The Broncos lead the way on top but the Phins lost no admirers with their effort against a rejuvenated Broncos.

A packed Suncorp was a great sight with the two Brisbane teams.

The Broncos possess a quality roster and if they can keep it together can give it a shake.

Reece Walsh would be high up in the Dally M’s and could be the missing link the Broncos need. A real quality 9 would see them an even better chance.

The Warriors continue to be the surprise packet and are playing nice consistent footy and are always hard to beat in NZ.

The Raiders aren’t going well, Sheensy and his mate Brooks are in trouble and Hook has shortened to be at Centrelink in the very near future.

The Titans have picked up plenty of injuries to key players and have a very important 4 weeks ahead.

This week kicks off with a beauty between the Roosters and Parramatta Thursday night. Parra Got on the board last week and would be hoping to go back to back.

The passing of John Sattler was heavily publicised and understandably so.

What an icon of the game he was. Pure folklore about his courage in the grand final with a broken jaw. People like him who are sincere gentleman off the field and animals on it don’t exist anymore. South’s did a beautiful tribute to the great man as well. RIP Mr Sattler.

Cracking day of women’s rugby league at Yamba on the weekend with u14’s and u17’s gala day. This was followed by the Northern Rivers Titans v North Coast in the Lisa Fiola u17’s and Open women’s.

The quality of footy is improving and the carnival in mid April should be great. Hopefully things get off the ground in the region and we get a strong girls Rugby League competition. St Joseph’s College are leading the way with schoolgirls footy in the region with a group of 20 u16’s going to Fiji at the end of the year for a Cultural and Rugby League experience.

The girls will play two games to follow up the Aussie schoolgirls tour last year. The girls are chasing sponsors to assist the trip.

Any interested businesses can get in touch through the weekly.

See you at the footy.

Quinny

Broncos had it over the Dolphins in an historical first clash for the fins. Inset is Manly. Image by NRL

Hayes Toyota a winner

THE HAYES Toyota Murwillumbah team have done it again, taking out their 30th Toyota Knights award for sales at the Toyota Dealer of the Year Awards recently.

The Hayes Toyota management team walked the red carpet at the gala event at the Royal International Convention Centre in Brisbane on Saturday, March 11.

It was a chance for the team to let their hair down and celebrate some well-earned praise having endured a tough 12 months following the 2022 flood and subsequent clean up.

Pace Stick Drill winner

By Jonathon Howard

accepted the Toyota Knights award for sales on behalf of the dealership, making it the 30th time Hayes Toyota have managed to win this award.

“Despite a record flood sweeping through the dealership 12 months ago, the Hayes team showed nothing could stop them from delivering their renowned exceptional service to their many valued customers,” he said.

Dealer principal Bert Hayes said he was pleased with the result despite the flood and is proud of his team for pulling together and continuing to provide a great service to the Tweed Shire.

MURWILLUMBAH ARMY Cadet Tomas Bowie has done his battalion and community proud after being named the winner of the Regimental Sergeant Major’s (RSM) Pace Stick Drill Competition.

Tomas attended the Australian Army Cadets (AAC) Brigade Conference at AAC headquarters in Holsworthy Barracks recently, where he competed in the annual event.

Tomas won the competition and received the White Oak Pace Stick as his prize.

He will return the pace stick next year for next year’s winner.

Tomas joined the Army Cadets in Murwillumbah in 2017 and has loved every minute of it according to his father James Bowie.

“This is his last year with cadets as he turns 18 in April,” James said.

“He is currently the 20 Battalion RSM Holding the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer Class One (CDT WO1).”

Tomas and his dad are preparing to walk the Kokoda Trek in April.

“I’m planning to join the Army Reserves at Tweed Heads’ 41st Battalion, Royal New South Wales Regiment, A Company, later this year,” he said.

“I’m currently working hard in year 12 towards applying for Australian Defence Force Academy next year to study civil engineering and becoming an Officer in the Army.”

The pace stick holds a significant place in the Australia Defence Force as Regimental Sergeant Majors carry a pace stick as a symbol of their appointment.

But the pace stick dates back to Roman times when it was used to mark out the distance of straight Roman roads.

However, when it comes to the modern military, the Royal Regiment of Artillery lay claim to be the originator of the pace stick. They say it was used like a pair of callipers

to ensure correct distances between their field guns during battle.

The pace stick is also used to measure the correct length of pace, rhythm and uniformity in marching, as well as the drum and metronome. Correct pace length is necessary not only for ceremonial purposes, but also to reduce fatigue on long marches and set the standard of accuracy required of soldiers

Goonellabah wins LJ Hooker final, wins for Crocs and Hornets

By Jo Kennett

CUDGEN was unlucky to fall short in their final against Goonellabah in the LJ Hooker Two Day League on Sunday, March 26, but the Hornets took out the Coastal League while the Casuarina Crocs won third grade the week before.

Cudgen’s Pat Rosser said their first innings bowling was fantastic with James (Julius with 7/32) “really setting things up.” Goonellabah all out for 95.

“We snuck home in the first innings with a lead of 28 but we didn’t do ourselves any favours getting bowled out for 123 (Pat top scored on 48).

“We had 15-year-old Ryan Reid who won the under 16s grand final on Saturday morning in our top order as well as Kai Croft (16) and Harry Kershler (15) so it was a good opportunity for them.

“The wicket flattened in the second and Kersh got 5/47 and James got 3/54 off 17 overs so he got ten wickets for the game. Goonellabah scored 168 in the second innings.

“We got bowled out in 36 overs for 97 but at the end of the two days we were outplayed by the better team, and they deserved their win.

“The game was played in really good spirits and was really enjoyable despite us losing.”

In the Coastal League Cudgen on 7/191 beat Tintenbar on 5/114 with Callum Prichard scoring 61 and Harry Hall 49. Hayden Wilson took 3.20. Rain saw the game end early with Cudgen declared premiers.

The Casuarina Crocs won back to

back titles in their first two seasons in the Tweed District Cricket Competition with their finals win over Cudgen after finishing on the same points.

“It was only the runs and wicket differential that gave us the minor premiership,” Croc Corey Lelean said.

“We got Cudgen out for 93 and then chased the total down in 20 overs

with five wickets to spare.

“We have won everything we could in the first two years so we are nominating for second grade in the Far North Coast competition which will be a challenge we are looking forward to and a definite step up.”

“It was the culmination of a fun season. The boys really enjoyed Sat-

urday afternoons playing together so it was lots of fun.”

Well done to all the players and volunteers on another great season. See you back in summer.

Hayes Toyota general manager Noel Clemson

GO TEAM HAYES TOYOTA: (left to right) Parts Manager Todd McDonald-Gates, Sales Manager Melissa Moore (Bert's Daughter), Dealer Principal Bert Hayes and General Manager Noel Clemson were awarded the company's 30th Toyota Knights award.

Tomas Bowie is an outstanding Cadet Warrant Officer Class One and has the pace stick to prove it

MAIN: Cudgen Hornets took out the Coastal League premiership

ABOVE: The Casuarina Crocs celebrate their win

Artists at work

By Madeleine Murray

THE WORKERS behind the scenes at the Tweed Regional Gallery are stepping into the limelight.

For three months, the gallery will exhibit the artwork of six people who install the stunning shows.

Each time there is a show, the installation team paints the walls, hangs the artworks, installs the sculptures and 3D work, and lights the room.

The gallery shows are more than just paintings on a wall.

The team often installs display cases, diaries, objects related to the show, or films of the artist speaking.

Artists at Work: Installers of Tweed Regional Gallery showcases a selection of work by this talented group for the first time.

“Our installation team continually excels in presenting the works of others. This exhibition is a chance to celebrate the work they do as artists rather than installers,” Gallery director Susi Muddiman told The Weekly.

Installer Chas Glover lived through the catastrophic floods in Lismore and did a series of paintings during those dark times.

He remembers the desolation.

“By wintertime I was living in a house emptied of most of its contents,” he said.

“The surrounding houses were broken, dark and lifeless. The stripped lounge room became a studio. I lived alone and began to paint.” Artworks on display span a wide range of techniques including painting, drawing, video, installation and sculpture.

Artists at Work: Installers of Tweed Regional Gallery is open now and runs until Friday, May 28.

Easter exhibition at Uki

By Madeleine Murray

UKI CELEBRATES its annual art event Images of Uki over the Easter weekend.

Open to all artists in the 2484 postcode, Images demonstrates the incredible creativity and variety of our local artists.

This year there are 100 artworks on display including mixed media, ceramics, sculpture, paintings and drawings.

Images is always a fun event with loads of visitors and lots of interesting, eclectic art. There is a people’s prize with viewers voting on a paper ballot. The winners, from first to tenth, are announced around 3pm on Sunday. Most work is available to buy for very reasonable prices.

Images was founded by Julia Hancock and began in 2010 as the art section of the extremely successful Ukitopia.

The first curator was Lisa Arronis of Yellow Brick Studio in Murwillumbah. Then Lorraine Lintern became its driving force with Edith Streiner as curator for the next nine years. Today Heather McClelland is the organiser and Jenny Sayer is this year’s curator.

Images receives invaluable sponsorship from local Uki businesses and is supported by a swarm of volunteers working behind the scenes. Everyone is welcome to the opening on Good Friday at 6pm in the Uki Hall. There will be

complimentary food and drink, and music performed by Megan Albany and Mark Mittag. Images of Uki opens at 6pm on Friday, April 7, in the Uki Hall. The exhibit is open from 9am-4pm from April 1-10.

Ninety-five-year-old Ida Daly, centre, is always a work of art herself

Opening night of Images of Uki

THE SCHOOL holidays are swooping upon us again, and Summertime is officially over as Daylight Savings finishes and clocks fall back on Sunday.

Our Sunset Soirées adjust to start an hour earlier from Easter weekend, and the takeover of terrific kids’ movies begins on our single screen. The first week, we have two game-based adaptations transporting us into their respective worlds.

The Super Mario Bros Movie sees our favourite Italian plumber-come-superhero in full CGI glory, continuing the trend of transmedia versions of Gen-X’s most nostalgic platform pastimes.

Last holidays, we had rival company, Sega’s Sonic the Hedgehog speeding across our giant screen, and now it’s Nintendo’s turn. I remember well the battle of the gaming giants as a child. I admittedly spent a hefty chunk of my solo childhood years playing Tetris, which I know programmed my brain well for spatial awareness and strengthened my logic skills – I thank that game every time I need to stack tight spaces.

California Games (really wish they’d

bring this one back!), Duck Hunt (these days most shooting practice in games is against humans or monsters rather than the sport-hunting-based games, no doubt due to the decline in blood-sports in the real world), any car-racing game (Micro Machines remains my preferred version) and of course, Super Mario, were high on my playlist. We all worry about how much our kids are on their screens, but I recall the inordinate number of hours I, myself, spent transfixed, thumbs twitching madly on controller buttons. I’m looking forward to sharing a journey into the world of Super Mario with my kids, although their reference for the characters of this classic come from Super Smash Bros, an entirely different game style from the 2D platform of linear levels, with bouncing mushrooms to eat to grow momentarily bigger and stronger. At least the sound effects have carried over. The certain tone of Mario’s “boing” jump is emblazoned in the collective consciousness of my generation, integrated into Pop Culture. Dungeons and Dragons is a fun formulaic romp through that world, sure to delight fans, and create new ones.

Flickerfest launching

The Regent Spotlight

THE HIGHLY-anticipated Flickerfest is back, and bringing hand-picked festival favourites to The Regent on Sunday, April 2, showcasing emerging filmmakers and unique stories celebrating identity and culture.

It is also a homecoming of talent, with many films in The Best Australian Shorts at 4pm having a solid connection with the Northern Rivers.

Bangay Lore was shot in Brunswick and Byron

Bay by award-winning First Nations filmmaker Jahvis Loveday.

The moving drama Six Of One from writer/ director Minka Bleakley and producer Yan was shot on location in Uki and Burringbar.

The producer of the comedy Voice Activated Liam Heyen, spent his high school years in Murwillumbah.

The insightful Torres Strait drama Katele (Mudskipper) was awarded the Best Australian Short Film and stars local actor Waangenga Blanco.

Locals in Flickerfest

By Madeleine Murray

FLICKERFEST IS the intensely competitive festival of short films which is coming to town, and this year four of the films have Northern Rivers connections.

Australia’s leading Academy Qualifying and BAFTA Recognised short film festival picked the winning films for the national and international Flickerfest this year from a record 3,200 entries.

Award-winning 22-year-old First Nations filmmaker and Crabbes Creek resident Jahvis Loveday wrote and directed Bangay Lore, which was awarded a special mention by the Australian jury at Flickerfest this year.

Bangay Lore is the poignant story of the realities of practising Indigenous culture in everyday life, set around Brunswick Heads and Byron Bay.

“I’m really excited Bangay Lore is screening in Murwillumbah,” Jahvis told The Weekly. “I’m happy that it’s come home to the shire and Far North Coast.

“Because it’s filmed in Brunswick Heads and Byron, it feels special for it to screen here where people know the area. I think it will really strike a chord.”

Jahvis will be at the Murwillumbah screening

and the Q&A afterwards, so it’s a chance to find out more about Indigenous culture in the Northern Rivers.

Other highlights include the Torres Strait cultural drama Katele (Mudskipper) about a woman longing for her island home. Northern Rivers-based actor Waangenga Blanco stars in this colourful, insightful film which won Best Australian Short Film at Flickerfest this year.

More films with local Northern Rivers connections also shine, all fresh from their premieres at Flickerfest Bondi.

Liam Heyen, a graduate of Mt Saint Patrick College, produced the sweet comedy Voice Activated, about a florist who stutters then finally finds his voice when he’s forced to cooperate with a voice-activated car.

Also showing on the big screen is Six Of One, a moving drama about a young mother finding her power, shot around Uki and Burringbar, written and directed by Minka Bleakley. Flickerfest, the best of Australian shorts, is on at The Regent Theatre, at 4pm on Sunday, April 2. The best of International Shorts is on at 8pm. Tickets are $22/$16. There will be a Q&A with the Australian filmmakers between the screenings. Visit: flickerfest.com.au/tour/ murwillumbah/

This Friday night don’t miss the incredible duo, William Crighton and Liz Stringer, in a special double bill with a full band!

The cinema weekend kicks off with the return of Film Chat. Gather on the balcony to discuss the OSCAR-winning performance of Brendan Fraser in the encore screening of THE WHALE LAST CHANCE TO SEE:

ALL THE BEAUTY AND THE BLOODSHED is the poignant story of artist and activist, Nan Goldin, and FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS 2: ONE AND ALL brings the laughs. MY FAIRY TROUBLEMAKER finishes this week clearing the screen for THE SUPER MARIO BROS MOVIE as school holidays begin next week.

Horror fans are in for a treat with psycho-drama PEARL - the eerie prequel to X, and a special late night screening for the fans of SCREAM VI

FLICKERFEST is back, and in 2023 The Regent features

BEST OF AUSTRALIAN and INTERNATIONAL SHORTS in a special double screening with a selection of the finest short films nationwide and from overseas.

Resident songstress, MOHINI COX, returns on Friday 31 with special guests for Friday’s Balcony Sessions from 6pm. April Fools’ Day sees beloved singer/songwriter, JESSE WITNEY, set the vibe. ELENA B WILLIAMS will bring us joy for the Sunset Soirée on the Easter weekend at the new time of 5-7pm.

Book now for upcoming live shows!

31/3 WILLIAM CRIGHTON AND LIZ STRINGER

11/6 TIM FREEDMAN with OLLIE THORPE in THE BLACKSTUMP DUO

(FINAL) 4:15PM

Sunset Soirée (LIVE MUSIC on the Balcony)

JESSE WITNEY 6-8PM

Fisherman’s Friends 2: (FINAL) 6:45PM Pearl 9:00PM

My Fairy Troublemaker (FINAL) 12:00PM Pearl 1:50PM

Flickerfest 2023Best of Australian Shorts 4:00PM

Q&A with Jahvis Loveday and Bronwynn Kidd

Best of International Shorts 7:00PM

Local actor Waangenga Blanco stars in Katele (Mudskipper). Inset is Bangay Lore writer director

Jahvis Loveday at Flickerfest Bondi closing night

CLUES

1 Super heroes: A boy and Lavagirl

2 Animated movie: Lady and her dog friend?

3 Animated movie: The Prince of a country?

4 A Bugs Bunny catchphrase: What’s something something?

5 K id’s book: The animal Who Came to Tea

6 Famous French kid’s books about an elephant

7 Hilar ious kid’s book series: Captain something Pants

8 K id’s book: Should I Share My Ice what?

from?

3. W hat status has Cabarita Beach recently been declared?

4. W hat does Tweed REDS stand for?

5. How old is the Murwillumbah Festival of Performing Arts this year?

48 Mount (5) 50 Illegal compulsion (6)

52 Opposite of pollute

53 Heaven (8)

55 Spicy sauce (5) 58

material (5)

17 Biological molecular catalyst (6)

23 Classical dancer (9)

25 Handrails (9)

26 An institution for children without parents (9)

29 Prelude (5)

30 Centre (5)

31 Conductor’s tool (5)

32 Examiner (9)

33 Beset by problems and conflicts (9)

36 Cleans (9)

39 Wanderer (5)

40 Stiff, unbending (5)

41 Doorkeeper (5)

46 Analgesic (10)

49 Breathe out (6)

51 Uniform colour (5)

52 Cure-alls (8)

54 Author of short pieces (8)

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

11 words: Good 16 words: Very good 22 words: Excellent

3 Casino city (3,5)

4 Garden pest (5)

5 Passes the hat (8)

6 Refines, as ore (6)

7 Au ___ (6)

8 Nursling (7)

9 Well-worn (10)

10 Body framework (8)

16 Short promotional

56 The food of the gods (8)

57 Sickness (7)

59 Temperature unit (6)

60 Drink plenty of these, say doctors (6)

62 Story in instalments (6)

WORDSEARCH: TWEED MARINE CREATURES

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

65 Grub (5) 516842973 751283469 965138742

Groper Rockcod GreyNurse Crustacean

Mollusc Turtle Wobbegong Stingray

Nudibranch Blennies Pineapplefish Frogfish

Humpback Dolphin

9 Letter Puzzle: calm, camp, cilia,

PET OF THE WEEK

Ruby

Foster Dogs 1604

$600

Mastiff/ Bull Arab/Lab X D.O.B. 18/11/2021

Desexed Female

M/C # 991003001419738

IRuby is a lovely looking girl who is still waiting for a home of her own. She loves playing with her brother Rufus, racing him around the paddock. She would suit a quiet household with older children.

Location: Murwillumbah

For more information contact Yvette on 0421 831 128

Interested?. Please complete our online adoption expression of interest.

https://friendsofthepound.com/ adoption-expression-of-interest/

JUNIOR CROSSWORD

Diamond Gutter Cleaning: 0402 035 042

SERVICING THE Tweed Shire and beyond for more than two decades, Diamond Gutter Cleaning based at Tweed Heads is one of the best operators in the cleaning business.

Owners Lorraine and Anthony Connon live at Banora Point and are passionate about their customers and the quality of work they undertake.

Through their star employee, Chris Hill, Diamond Gutter Cleaning look after all of Tweed Shire Council Gutter Cleaning, pressure cleaning and Gutter Guard Installations “because our compliance and work methods are impeccable”.

“We are fully qualified with all working at heights qualifications and all insurances,” Lorraine said.

The business has also recently achieved a major milestone, by being officially endorsed by all of the major real estate Agencies in the Tweed as approved and trusted suppliers and trades.

“We are well on our way to having over 1,000 happy customers across residential, commercial, Body Corporates and many retail and community buildings,” Lorraine said.

“We also work hand-inhand with many NDIS project managers as well as aged care providers.”

Diamond Gutters pride themselves on offering its

clients a good old fashioned reliable service, before and after photos and a 100 per cent customer satisfaction guarantee. There’s no job too big or too small for this local team.

They offer Gutter Vacuuming Cleaning - both commercial and residential, Pressure Cleaning - roofs, driveways, pathways etc, Solar Panel Cleaning, unblocking down pipes and gutter guard and gutter brush installation.

The business has plenty of five-star reviews and in fact Diamond Gutters have not had to return to a job yet “as

we are thorough and do the job properly first time every time”. Free quotes usually within five minutes. To find out more and get a quote please phone Diamond Gutter Cleaners on: 0402 035 042

Testimonial: “Excellent Communication, turned up on time and did an amazing Job. Very Professional and friendly, Great service at an affordable price, Highly recommend,” said one happy customer.

Special offer: Please mention this Featured Business (advertisement) for a 15 per cent discount. Diamond Gutters also offer pensioner discounts and assistance with NDIS and Aged Care Project Managers Budgeting.

Car for Sale

2007 NISSAN X-TRAIL ST-S 24x4 Silver 210,000kms. Auto, Air, Power Steer, Full Electrics, Sun Roof, Mag Wheels, Airbags, ABS Brakes,Cruise Control, Radio/Cd. Just Serviced Engine & Transmission, New Tyres, Suspension Etc. Rego Jan 2023. $7,700. Ph 0407 120 113

2015 VOLKSWAGEN POLO 281 TSI comfort line, 6 speed manual, 5 door hatch back. 138,000km, Rego till Oct 2022, very well maintained, one lady owner. $11,700 Phone 0439 067 981

1997 BMW E36 323I SEDAN , 5sp auto, cruise control, sunroof, 211000kms, log books, 11 months reg, unmodified, very good condition, great drive, smooth, quiet & economical, $7500, Ph 0412 493 980

Caravan for Sale

FOR SALE Pop-Top Caravan Gazel 14.6ft. Double island bed. Good Condition, New roof. $11,000 phone 0457 247 862

MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID COURSE

Improve knowledge of mental illnesses and their treatments and confidence in providing assistance to individuals with mental illness.

2 day training from 9am to 3.30pm offered over separate weeks Certificate on successful completion of the course Morning and afternoon tea will be provided

Standard MHFA manual Make enquiries: wendy@wellnessrocks.com.au

White Card Engraving

TWEED HEADS Original Thai Massage. Phone Yah 0477594800

Positions Vacant

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

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

FARMER NEEDS HELP Excellent Remuneration. All enquiries welcome. Ph: (07) 5590 7029

Legal Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE OF PEOPLE, TACIT ACCEPTANCE

Felicia Gunhild Engstrom of Tweed Heads West, New South commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of protected Trade Names Felicia Gunhild Engstrom, FELICIA GUNHILD all relevant variations of Naming Conventions since unrebutted jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth 2022, Public Recording Number RPP4463900051001677183605. ties with the occupying corporate government of Australia any further infringement upon these copyright protected misaddressing Felicia Gunhild Engstrom in fraudulent debased

FREE!

Free Sing For Fun

Benefit for Health and Mind.

Phone Margaret: 0438 819 809

For Sale

TESTED & TAGGED. Gallagher Mains Power Fence Energisers.

Positions Vacant

Positions Vacant

Murwillumbah

Saturday,

Early

Business for Sale

Caravan for Sale

1990 TOYOTA COASTER MOTOR HOME Converted to rear engine, 3.5 litre diesel motor, 5 speed manual. 122,906 Kms. Fully engineered, NSW 12 months rego. Car licence, suit couple.

$39,000 Ph: 0412 769 520

Courses

KAYAK Native Watercraft Ultimate FX12 - made in USA. Brand new condition (never used). Includes seat, foot rests, paddle, rod holder and anchor. $1,695 ono call Ray 0418 828 039

Car for Sale

engine, in perfect condition. Can be marinised with marinising kit. Ph: 0467 905 917

First Aid Courses

HLTAID009 Provide CPR ($50)

HLTAID011 Provide first aid ($100)

HLTAID012 Provide first aid in an education and care setting ($120)

HLTAID014 Provide advanced first aid

HLTAID015 Provide advanced resuscitation

To book a place just Phone 0466015373 Southern Cross First Aid First Aid kits approved for all work places www.firstaidsc.com

White Card

Construction Induction Tweed Heads South Phone 0466 015 373 Safety CORP RTO 91694

HILL-ROM ELECTRIC BED Electric multi function adjustable bed and mattress in excellent working condition. Adjustable rails with removable head and foot boards. The multi functions include: up & down, head up & down and foot up & down, controlled by push button controls on both sides of the bed frame. The bed has a safety brake locking system. The mattress is waterproof. Email: vnskean@gmail.com

Lost

LOST OR TAKEN Brown Gladstone bag containing harmonicas, microphone, leads and music books. Wednesday 15th March, near Riverview Hotel Murwillumbah. For any information Phone- 0412 870 457

Massage

Massage

Tweed Heads South Wed-Thurs, Sat, Sun Ph 0473 512 021 www.goodhandsmassages.com

Piano Tuner/Removal

Do you need to Tune a piano? Move a Piano? Call Jed the Piano man Cheapest and the best.

Beautiful riverside cafe, STAR BIRD is awaiting key team members. Do you have 2+ years experience as a chef, cafe manager or head barista? This could be the perfect place for you! Looking for a dynamic and reliable supervisor for this prime location. Above award wages, flexible hrs. Early start, early finish shifts available. Get in touch with us ASAP! OPENING 25th JANUARY for a busy Summer season. starbirdcafe2484@gmail.com

Sugarcane Harvester Operator

A sugarcane harvesting group in the Condong Mill area requires a harvester operator for the 2023 sugar crushing season.

Position Description

• Operating cane harvester fitted with GPS and computerised monitoring systems

• Pre-start checks

• Operating machinery in a safe, efficient and methodical manner

• Cleaning and maintenance of machinery

• Communicating effectively with haulout drivers and management

Work truck provided if you have a LR licence. Paying well above award rates; leave entitlements apply. This fixed contract position has the potential to convert to a permanent year-round position for the right candidate.

Required Skills/Qualifications

• Relevant harvesting experience required

• Australian manual transmission driver’s licence required

• LR truck driver’s licence preferred but not essential

• Able to work 6 days on, 1 day off roster for the estimated period June to December

• Mechanically minded

Please forward your resume to riverendharvesting@gmail.com or phone 0483 279 732.

Cane Haulout Driver

A harvesting group in the Condong Mill area requires a haulout driver for the 2023 sugar crushing season.

Position Description

• Operating cane haulout tractor/trailer fitted with GPS and computerised monitoring systems

• Pre-start checks

• Operating machinery in a safe, efficient and methodical manner

• Cleaning and maintenance of machinery

• Communicating effectively with harvester operator and management

Required Skills/Qualifications

• Relevant harvesting experience required

• Australian manual transmission driver’s licence required

• LR truck driver’s licence preferred but not essential

• Able to work 6 days on, 1 day off roster for the estimated period June to December

• Mechanically minded

Please forward your resume to riverendharvesting@gmail.com or phone 0483 279 732.

Death Notice

Positions Vacant

BILLI LIDS LONG DAY CARE CENTRE is a 29 place centre located in Billinudgel in northern NSW. We have two educator positions available.

1. Mon-Fri 28-35hrs per week

2. Wed-Fri 15-20hrs per week

Qualifications: Diploma or Cert. 111. Start date can be negotiated. Phone Lyn (02) 6680 4025 for enquiries

FARMER NEEDS HELP

Office work, filing, typing & simple calculations. Help also required on the farm attending to small herd, quiet cattle. As well as restoration of Macadamia ochard. Ph: 0467 905 917

Snake Relocation

To Let

COOLANGATTA Room to rent 200 metres from the beach, Club, shops, fully furnished, cooking facilities, No lease and No bond. Over 50’s from $280 per week. (07) 5599 1089

TO LET Duranbah habitable shed with attached bathroom, suit single person, no pets, nonsmoker. $225 per week inc gas + elec. Ph: 0455 951 183 reference required

COOLANGATTA room to rent 200 metres from the beach, Club, shops, fully furnished, cooking facilities, No lease and No bond. Over 50’s from $280 per week. (07) 5536 3233

Wanted

WANTED Old neglected nylon string or steel string guitars. I fix them and give them to primary schools. Please call Guitar For Schools on 0418 479 170

WANTED TO BUY ANTIQUE FURNITURE. Fine China, garden tools, LP Records, Doc Martin boots, jewellery, general furniture, quality clothes, fishing gear, old bottles, garage oil bottles eg Castrol fuel & Esso, old prints & paintings, anything old and interesting. Happy to come and look. Phone 0417 606 052

Social Group

SOCIAL GROUP OVER 50, Men and ladies, Singles, Organized outings, Get togethers, Nice people and Friendship. Phone: 0428 523 423. Genuine people only

Wanted

WE BUY GOOD & BAD TRUCKS, VANS, 4X4’S, UTES, CARS & MACHINERY Any condition up to $12,500 Free Tow as Needed. Call now to discuss 0403 118 534

UTE WANTED 1 tonne single cab tray back ute wanted for Farm use. Registered or unregistered but still in driving conditions. Please call Ulrich on 02 6677 1167

WE BUY, SWAP AND SELL QUALITY

BOOKS 309 Tweed Valley Way | Angela 0403 169 616 DONATIONS GRATEFULLY ACCEPTED

Death Notices

DRESSMAKER/SEAMSTRESS wanted to make simple dresses, top & alterations.Ph: 0467 848 819

BUYING ALL COINS Banknotes - MilitariaBadges - Rugby League & Sporting Memorabilia Call Peter on 0407 783 910.

In Memoriam

CLEMENT Michael Patrick 23/03/2023

McGuiness Funerals 02 6672 2144

Corrado “ Don” Rota 23/03/2023

Funeral Directors

STILL GOING STRONG AFTER NEARLY 40 YEARS!

As a licensed real estate agent for over 30 years, his career in real estate has been defined by his passion to share the beautiful living environment we call home.

With unparalleled local knowledge, old-school values, and genuine approach to business, he is driven to get the best results for the people he works with, his sellers and buyers.

Honest, loyal, local – Kel wants to help you find your home in the Tweed.

Call today for a chat about the current market conditions.

Limited Budget! Independent Living Villa or Investment

Situated in a prime position in the popular Carey Cottages complex, this one bedroom villa is ideal for a downsizing retiree on a limited budget, looking for a safe and secure living environment close to all essential services and amenities.

Alternatively, with the current scarcity of rental accommodation in general and strong demand for this type of property, it will also appeal to savvy investors seeking a solid return on capital.

The bright and sunny aspect looks across the road to the green open spaces of sports fields and parkland. The villa is shaded by a beautiful Poinciana tree and the garden setting is a perfect spot for the morning cuppa!

• Spotless presentation – freshly painted, new carpets and a recently upgraded air conditioning unit as well as a washing machine and clothes dryer included.

• Recreation room on site with kitchen facilities, library and space for social gatherings and meetings.

• Well maintained gardens and grounds.

• Flat stroll to Twin Towns’ Club Banora as well as Banora Shopping Village, where the tenancies include a supermarket, chemist, medical centre, newsagent, post office and around 25 other retailers and service providers.

• Minutes to Tweed City Shopping Centre.

• Public transport virtually at your front door.

• Permanent rental expectation approximately $320 per week.

• Affordable strata levies – currently works out at $39.50 per week including water.

Real Estate

FROM COAST TO COUNTRY

Market value tips from a local expert

By Jo Kennett

UNDERSTANDING WHAT affects the current market value of a particular property can help you negotiate with data-backed confidence, according to one local real estate expert.

Sales Consultant at Harcourts

BMG Jessica Otto said a market valuation “is an estimate of the current price of the property in the market and is often completed by a real estate agent.”

“The value of the property is based on market trends and recent sales (within six months) of similar properties in the area,” she said.

According to Jessica, there are ten key factors which affect the value of a property.

The first will come as no surprise.

“Location, location – the location of a property is the most obvious factor that affects how much a property is worth,” Jessica said.

“Is the property close to public transport, shops, schools, and restaurants? Is it in a sought-after beach front location?

“I am finding more and more buyers want the connectivity to where they work, if not from home but have a lifestyle where they can retreat after work hours and feel like they are on holiday away from the hustle and bustle; therefore in these areas properties will be more expensive.

“There is also the fact that some suburbs have a better reputation than others due to factors such as unemployment or crime rates.”

The second factor on Jessica’s list is population and demographic.

“The more people who want to live in a particular suburb, the greater the demand for properties there,” she said.

“At the same time, the type of people living in the area will also influence property values. For example, if young families are the dominant demographic group in the area, multi-bedroom houses will be more sought after than small apartments.”

At number three is supply and demand.

“Property prices will increase

if demand exceeds supply in a given market,” Jessica told the Weekly.

“This is because more people are in the market for a smaller number of properties and the competition to secure a home drives prices up.”

The fourth factor is interest rates, a big factor after the Reserve Bank of Australia delivered a record 10th consecutive rate hike in early March despite calls from financial experts to pause rate rises.

“The good old interest rate conversation; as we have seen in the current market conditions, when people are uncertain, they may stand to hold,” Jessica said.

“Over the past two years, there have been low interest rates, which means buyers’ borrowing capacity is higher.

“With the past six months of interest rates rising, borrowing has become more expensive, which has corrected market growth and forced borrowers to tighten their belts.”

Property size and features is

the next factor in determining property values.

“The features and overall size of a property also influence its value,” Jessica said.

“A four-bedroom house is likely to fetch more than a threebedroom house in the same area, while features such as extra bathrooms, garages, swimming pools, and entertaining outdoor areas can all impact property value.

“Additional features such as lowmaintenance lawns, and premium finishes will add value too.”

Jessica has age and condition as the sixth factor on her list.

“A newly-constructed home will have a higher price than surrounding properties built tenplus years ago,” she said.

“Also, don’t forget first impressions matter!

“How your house is presented from the outside can instantly add or subtract tens of thousands of dollars from its value.”

Renovations obviously help determine value too.

“Renovations do add value but

remember to have the end goal in mind when renovating so you do not overcapitalise,” she said.

“A big-ticket item is an additional dual-living residence to rent out or Airbnb for an additional house income source.”

Harcourts BMG sales expert Jessica Otto has some great knowledge

STREET, CHINDERAH

MEDICAL CONSULTING | OFFICE SUITES | INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE

Do not miss this extremely rare opportunity to acquire this exceptional / one of a kind commercial property located in Chinderah 2487 NSW that did not succumb to flooding. This impressive concrete structure with complete internal fit out is approximately 600sqm over two well-appointed levels with a General Industrial zoning - the potential commercial applications are extraordinary. The expansive and elevated façade provides excellent signage opportunities, with ample on-site parking directly to the door. The site is also additionally secure being fully fenced with an electronic gate. Any astute commercial investor or owner operator will appreciate the immense value of holding such a well-appointed and ideally positioned commercial property with mixed use options. This incredible blank canvas site is waiting to be optimised to its full capacity and has so much value with its variable potential. This is an exciting opportunity that will not last long!

• Highly desirable stand-alone industrial property in key location

• 4 kms (approx) from the under construction $500 million Tweed Valley Regional Hospital

1/33 MORTON On Site - Thursday 13th April 2023 at 11am 89627

Dual-living steps away from Kingscliff Beach

Two dwellings on 531m2 block, creating an opportunity for dual living or an income stream should you wish.

The original 3 bedroom home at the front of the property has been recently been renovated with a brand new kitchen, fresh coat of paint and new floor boards. On the east side of the main residence, is a adjoining self-contained 3 bedroom unit, with kitchen and one bathroom.

You have two properties on the one block of land, immediately doubling your income opportunities. That’s very rare in this much sought after sunny beachside location.

Classic Beachside Residence + Pool house

The primary residence has been renovated with a spacious kitchen, open living area, three bedrooms with walk-in robes, plus an ensuite with a freestanding bath. Adjoining the primary residence is a selfcontained studio with a kitchen, living, bedroom, bathroom, and laundry. Together this is one large fourbedroom home.

The current owner has capitalised on the large block, building a new stand-alone granny flat with a full kitchen, living, bedroom, bathroom, and laundry.

Modern home with all the extra features

Set on a large 665 sqm fully fenced block, this home hosts four generous bedrooms with built-in wardrobes and an additional multi-purpose room. The home has been cleverly designed with the family, living, and dining areas all connected to the kitchen and positioned to wrap around the tiled outside alfresco area, pool and backyard.

Additional features include storage sheds, 13 KW solar panels, a built-in dog zone, and a concreted pad suitable for a caravan or boat. High-quality features and spacious interiors will easily make you fall in love with this coastal family home.

Jessica Otto 0434 644 238 jessica.otto@harcourts.com.au

Celebrate with and win

To celebrate 3 years in our Bay Street of ce and 12 years in business, we’re coming together with some of Bay Street’s businesses to draw a special hamper for you to win. Please

Participating Businesses

Meet theTeam

82 River Street, South Murwillumbah

PRICE: $600,000 - $629,000

3 BED | 1 BATH | 2 CAR

Set on a substantial 1088m2 block Generous living and dining area, and a large kitchen

Opportunity to fit out downstairs (already plumbed and powered) to create space for Air BnB or teenager's retreat Situated within easy walking distance to Murwillumbah's CBD, shops and restaurants

Rowlands Creek Road, Uki

189 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah

PRICE: $745,000

3 BED | 2 BATH | 2 CAR

Waterfront home offering an enviable lifestyle and direct river access

Charming period features throughout, VJ panelling and timber floors

Covered entertaining deck overlooks sundrenched backyard Views to Mount Warning and surrounding ranges

Fully fenced, generous 734sqm block

9 DarroTerranoraRoad,

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CLOSING 15/04/23

695.30M2 VACANT LAND

Elevated and centrally located vacant land close to local shops, cafe's, transport and schools

Offering unrivaled potential to build a stylish, modern dream home with tranquil views

Terranora is just 10 minutes from Coolangatta and Kingscliff beaches, as well as Gold Coast Airport

HOW

A SUPERB FAMILY ENTERTAINER - with serenity & space'

3 Highland Drive Terranora

Enjoy a hint of cool country living close to all major amenities, from this overly spacious (4) bedroom lowset residence commanding scenic views and surrounded by a playful 7635m2 allotment with rolling lawns.

KEY FEATURES

• Generous formal & informal living areas

• Separate family/media room

• Master bedroom with walk in robe & ensuite

• Large main bathroom with separate shower & bath

• Well-appointed kitchen with granite benches, 6 burner gas hot plate & 900mm oven

• Ducted reverse cycle air-conditioning

• Extensive wrap around covered balcony / decking with full sun blinds

• Fully tiled in-ground pool

• Automatic double garage plus exterior space for caravan or boat

• Mature easily manageable gardens with a range of shady trees over wide spread rolling lawns

Land Size 7635m2

Buyers Range $1.650m - $1.695m

Open Saturday - 10:30 - 11:00am (NSW Time)

David Stringer 0418 150 731

david@djstringer.com.au

PINEHURST - a golfers paradise'

1603 'Pinehurst' 22 Kirkwood Drive Tweed Heads South

Experience over 300 degrees of magnificent panoramic scenery from this beautifully modernised 187m2 (3) bedroom apartment, perched high on the 16th level of this iconic establishment, surrounded by acres of manicured gardens and the lush fairways of the Coolangatta/Tweed Golf course.

KEY FEATURES:

• Ducted cooling system

• Spacious open plan tiled living

• Wrap around balcony

• Hostess kitchen w/ Delonghi appliances & 2-pac cabinetry

• Master suite w/ walk through robe, ensuite & access to Juliette balcony

• Bedroom 2&3 w/ built-in mirror robes

• Stylish main bathroom w/ floor to ceiling tiles & separate bath

• Retractable fly screens

• 2 side by side car spaces (potential room for your own golf cart with direct access out to the course)

• Storage cage

• Communal workshop for those that like to tinker

• Pet friendly

bath bed

car pool

Buyers Range $1.250m - $1.295m

Open Saturday 11:30 - 12:00pm (NSW time)

David Stringer 0418 150 731

david@djstringer.com.au

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