Tweed Valley Weekly, October 10, 2024

Drug and drink driver numbers

By Jo Kennett

Cudgen Leagues Club update

By Jo Kennett

THE RECENT awarding of a $50,000 grant to the Cudgen Hornets Rugby Leagues Club by VB to boost the club has served as a reminder that the clubhouse still remains a shell of its former self since fire gutted it in 2020.

Work on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) containing the terms of the proposed amalgamation between Norths Collective and Cudgen Leagues Club, which could be a lifeline for the club, has been underway for several months but there are hopeful signs it won’t be too much longer until it’s completed.

If members vote in favour of the amalgamation, once the MOU between the two clubs is finalised, Norths, which also owns and operates Seagulls Club at Tweed Heads, plans to rebrand the club as The Clubhouse Cudgen.

“The MOU is still awaiting confirmation

by Norths but it is hopefully in the near future,” Cudgen Leagues Club president Sean Alcorn told The Weekly.

“It’s all ready on our end, it’s just their end which is understandable given the level of investment required.”

When The Weekly spoke to Norths Collective CEO Luke Simmons earlier this year, he assured that things were moving in the right direction.

“Norths Collective continues to work with its partners on the masterplan opportunities of bringing The Clubhouse Cudgen to life,” Mr Simmons said.

“Both boards are at the positive narrow end of important MOU negotiations which is incredibly important to get right for both sets of membership to vote in future for the formal completion of an amalgamation.”

The club held a forum in late May, just before the Annual General Meeting, where members heard about Norths Col-

lective’s plans and vision for the club post amalgamation.

President Sean Alcorn said at the time that Norths Collective was working behind the scenes on their master plan for the precinct including external facilities such as centres for excellence and accommodation.

Norths Collective CEO Luke Simmons explained that both parties have been working with their legal representatives on the specifics of the MOU “which takes considerable time.”

He said Norths Collective would continue to provide a home for the many clubs, including the RSL, U3A (The University of the Third Age) and various sporting clubs that were based out of the old clubhouse.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Would you like to see the iconic Cudgen Leagues Club reopened? Send your thoughts via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

Shocking drink-driving numbers

By Jo Kennett

OPERATION LABOUR Day 2024 began at midnight Friday, October 4, and ran until midnight on Monday, October 7, with ten drivers busted over the limit in the Tweed-Byron Police District and one driver up on 13 charges after a cross-border operation.

Tweed-Byron Police District Inspector Matt Woods said the number of drink-driving charges laid in the Tweed-Byron Police District was disappointing.

“There were in excess of 1,600 random breath tests conducted over the weekend and ten PCAs (prescribed concentration of alcohol),” Insp Woods said.

“While the majority of road users were compliant, we were very disappointed in the number of PCAs.”

The Northern Region, which includes the Tweed Shire, saw 2726 infringements issued with 1184 for speeding.

A total of 26,763 breath tests were con-

ducted with 70 drink drivers charged, 154 drivers had positive drug-driving tests. There were 64 major crashes and one fatality.

Across the state, police issued 10,479 Traffic Infringement Notices, including 4124 for speed-related offences, 312 for mobile phone usage, and 232 seatbelt/ helmet-related offences.

Police attended 280 major crashes, conducted more than 138,000 breath tests with 210 drink-driving offences, and conducted 12,000 drug tests with 633 drug-driving offences detected.

More than 500 speeding infringements were issued recently, during a major border-focused school holiday traffic operation aimed at reducing road trauma, which saw one driver on the M1 in a lot of hot water. Operation Border to Border ran from Friday, September 27 to Saturday, September 28, targeting speeding, dangerous driving, impaired driving, distracted driving and driver fatigue on the key trans-

port routes between the Queensland and Victorian borders. Read more on page 31.

Cudgen Leagues Club was devastated by fire in 2020, but plans are progressing towards a new club. Inset is Norths Collective CEO Luke Simmons

Tweed Byron Police were out in force over the long weekend, with 1,600 breath tests done

You

Parking is everyone’s responsibility

In response to The Weekly’s article on the outrage over parking fines (TVW, October 3), you are at risk of getting a parking fine whenever you park illegally.

The rules are online, simple and easy to understand. Signage about restrictions and times is also available if you choose to read it.

Most are time poor, hate driving around looking for a park and don’t want to walk very far, but that’s just part of life. Tweed and Murwillumbah are no exceptions.

Having often witnessed the disdain and verbal abuse of our parking officers, couldn’t any notification on a vehicle illicit the same response.

I feel that abuse for doing your job is unacceptable. At best an email can’t be thrown away.

Is it really the system of digital-issued tickets or simply the indignation of the vehicle owner that is causing the outrage. If in doubt, don’t. Look up the rules. Better to walk than incur a fine. It’s your choice.

Karen Gail, Crystal Creek

I vote for candidates not political parties

I was my understanding people wishing to be elected for the council were doing so to represent the people living in the Tweed Shire. Why are they saying to vote for a political candidate, is that not for state elections?

I voted for the people I thought would help the citizens of the Tweed Shire, not a political party.

The ward system works very well in Geelong, where one votes for the person that lives and has an interest in the area.

J Thompson, Banora Point

I chose Cr James Owen

I’m happy that the hard-working Cr James Owen has been deservedly returned to again serve the people of Tweed Shire as a councillor.

According to the poll, most of the Tweed people, obviously, have high

regards for Cr Owen, so it’s time to let us, the people of Tweed, vote for our mayor. He has worked tirelessly to serve us and so deservedly should be our mayor.

Linda West, Banora Point

Tweed top of spoilt votes

Interesting that other shires across NSW did not have the same issues with ‘informal’ voting, according to the NSW Electoral Commission.

Does this mean people deliberately did this or are residents here unable to follow directions.

I suspect that maybe some people are disinterested, disconnected and discouraged by local government?

Meg Houghton, Uki

Don’t censor free speech

As a private citizen, interested in weighing up and discussing various aspects of an issue, I am vehemently opposed to anything that censors free speech.

This especially refers to the dangerous “Combatting Misinformation and Disinformation” Bill, introduced into Parliament on 12th September by the Minister for Communications.

I cannot express my sentiments any better than Lachlan Murdoch did on an episode of ABC’s Australian Story (aired on September 23): “As Australians, we are free to have our own opinions. We should reject every effort to limit points of view, to obstruct a diversity of opinions and to enforce a singular world view.”

Who knows what valid pieces of information once classed as ‘misinformation’ and later discovered to be useful knowledge, could vanish into the obscurity of censorship?

I might have hoped our government would be interested in what is on the minds of its constituents, even if their views contradict the current accepted narrative. Situations can change rapidly, and the government should be on the front foot.

I find it extraordinary that we were expected, in a very short space of time, to consider the ramifications

of this important amendment, which can affect anyone in the community who wishes to thrash out opposing opinions. There should have been time for public hearings into such an important bill.

• Headache and Migraine • Jaw pain - locking - clicking - grinding • Vestibular - dizzy - vertigo

opened, private developer plans were being made to expand the health precinct onto adjoining farmland.

If the state government now decides that these arguments for additional health precinct expansion are legitimate, it will then be apparent that the community has been badly deceived.

the gentrification of coastal villages such as ours, but Cudgen Connection promises to add another possibly seven-storey industrial wall into town, in stark contrast with the nature of the town itself.

Robbie Wesley, Murwillumbah Mozzies not all bad — protect the big ones It’s that time again, the giant noisy mozzies you can hear right through the house are back, but please do not spray them, they live on fruit nectar, will never sting you, and their larvae will eat all the other mozzie larvae that grow into ones that actually bite us and spread disease. If you hear one, leave them alone. They are called Toxorhynchites speciosus and they’re 10cm large.

Greg Manson, Wardrop Valley Farmland is still farmland

The Cudgen plateau has been repeatedly identified by the Department of Primary Industries as Tweed’s last remaining unfragmented premium agricultural land.

Its State Significant Farmland listing means it is in effect the best farmland in NSW. Unique land like this is vital not only for the local economy, but for food security for future generations. It must be protected.

Using it for the Tweed Valley Hospital was defended by the proponents (former Health Minister Brad Hazzard and our local MP Geoff Provest) with their repeated “iron-clad” assurances that the acquisition of agricultural land was large enough to satisfy all future hospital expansion, allied health, specialist suites, and parking. Hence no further incursion into the protected lands would ever be necessary or permitted, as clearly this outcome could potentially have the tragic effect of triggering the break-up of the remaining prime farmland by speculative developers.

Yet before the hospital had even

If so, there should then be a public enquiry to identify whether the hospital site planning process failed, and if so, who was responsible.

DL McAllister, Kingscliff Answers needed over Cudgen Connection

If these are growing pains, then perhaps I need stronger medication.

Too many ifs. Parking is a problem at Tweed Valley Hospital next door and Cudgen Connection plans don’t really show where the allocated parking for ‘residents’, staff, patients, visitors, service vehicles will be, apart from some street parking in the various precincts.

A new set of traffic lights is proposed at the main Cudgen Road entry to the development, approximately 100 metres from the lights at the Tweed Coast Road intersection. Frustrating now when traffic can be banked up in the mornings and afternoons on both roads and when only three or four cars get through the lights from Kingscliff before they turn red. Then throw another set of lights into the mix of a road network already under strain.

There is some indication of the height of the various buildings proposed but any visualisations are deceptive, and it is going to be a very busy place based on what is to be crammed into the site.

It just seems to tick as many boxes as it can to win approval.

As far as aesthetics and fitting into the environment, the neighbouring Tweed Valley Hospital already looks like it needs a good gurney and is a far cry from the artist impressions used to promote it.

There has been much said about

Mark Baxter, Kingscliff No to development I am writing in regard to the recent article published in the Tweed Valley Weekly (September 26) about the proposed Cudgen Connection development on officially classified State Significant Farmland (SSF) adjacent to the Tweed Valley Hospital.

At all levels the community is against this development so hopefully the Sydney-based politicians and bureaucrats will respect this and not allow the development to proceed. The NSW Government does not designate land to be SSF without diligent and thorough research, consultation and deliberation so as a benchmark this category should be respected and iron clad.

This is particularly the case when both our elected state and federal representatives, the majority of elected Tweed councillors and the local Kingscliff Ratepayers and Progress Association are supportive of maintaining the SSF classification. Tweed Valley residents have overwhelmingly spoken through their elected representatives at community, shire, state and federal levels that this parcel of land should remain categorised as SSF. Hopefully, the views of all the above bodies and individuals will be respected and supported by the Sydney-based politicians and bureaucrats and this particular parcel of land will remain as SSF.

Mike Hogan, Kingscliff

Please note the views on the letters page are those of the letter writer and not of the Tweed Valley Weekly. Letters must include a suburb and contact number for verification. Letters may be edited for length or legal reasons. Send your letters to editor@theweekly.net.au or phone: (02)

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Hastings Point DA meeting

By Jo Kennett

THE FINAL stages of a Hastings Point development that once inspired community protests is back on the table, with the owners hosting two community meetings about the proposed plans.

TriCare Hastings Point Retirement Community on Tweed Coast Road (beside the Coles Express Service Station) has notified neighbours that it is preparing an application to expand the retirement facility and is hosting drop-in sessions so neighbouring residents can review the proposed plans, ask questions and express any concerns.

The state government originally approved a staged seniors living development approved under its State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing for Seniors or People with a Disability) but since its initial determination, the development consent has been modified several times.

TriCare cites the need for homes and services for seniors in the area as the reasoning behind the proposal for four new accommodation buildings, an indoor pool and spa, and a bowling green and pavilion.

According to TriCare, the new development “will replace the last approved phases of the existing development.”

The company will submit concurrent DAs to Tweed Shire Council as a regionally significant development and to the NSW Government as a state significant development.

Hastings Point Progress Association president Gary Thorpe says he is concerned about the lack of aged care in the proposal, something that council also objected to with previous DAs.

“They were originally able to bypass various legal requirements by calling it aged care,” Mr Thorpe said.

“The ruling in the High Court was that

aged care is so important that it pretty well trumps everything.

“They have always maintained that aged care — staged care for ageing in place — was going to be included in the final stages but now they are saying it’s never going to happen.”

The original approval was for 91 independent living units, 94 supported living units and 67 beds within a high-care facility.

“They were to start in apartments, downsize to rooms and then to aged care which is manned by nurses et cetera to look after people and there is no sign of that happening,” Mr Thorpe said.

“They are just building more apartments, so where’s the care?

“Why is that state significant? It’s just a bunch of apartments.”

An amended 2020 DA which proposed removing all the aged care beds and the supported living units, essentially making the whole development independent living units was rejected by council with Cr Chris Cherry saying at the time that residents who bought into the development “bought in with the reasonable expectation that they could move from the independent living units (ILUs) to the supported living units then on the aged care facility, so they

could age in place with dignity and with their network of friends and family around them, and, as yet, no aged care beds have been provided.”

The development made national headlines in 2008 when the local community made a nude video which featured on national media, including TV, protesting against the development which they said would destroy the character of the village and set increased building height precedents.

The High Court approved the development, though the community won the battle to curtail building heights.

TriCare bought the development in 2011 after the original developers went into administration.

The Weekly has contacted TriCare’s planning consultants for comment.

Neighbour residents can hear about the TriCare proposal at the drop-in sessions which will be held on Thursday, October 17, from 2pm to 3.30pm and 5pm to 6.30pm at the Club Lounge, Hastings Point Retirement Community, at 87- 89 Tweed Coast Road, Hastings Point.

If you can’t make the drop-in sessions but would still like to provide input you can phone Planit Consulting on 02 66745001 or email robv@planitconsulting.com.au

TriCare Hastings Point Retirement Community

3G is switching off

Upgrade your phone and devices now

From Monday 28 October, Australia‘s 3G networks will be switched off.

All phones and devices that rely on 3G, and some older 4G devices, such as EFTPOS machines, medical alarms, personal emergency response devices, smart watches and tablets will no longer work. This means you won’t be able to make or receive calls or texts or call Triple Zero (000).

To check if you’re impacted text ‘ 3’ to ‘3498’ or contact your mobile service provider.

To learn more visit infrastructure.gov.au and search ‘3G switch off ’

The Weekly’s new office

TWEED VALLEY Weekly is in the process of moving to a new CBD location this month at Shop 7, 41-45 Murwillumbah Street.

The relocation marks an exciting new chapter for the publication, which has been a trusted source of local news and information for residents and businesses for more than 30 years.

Editor and owner Jonathon Howard expressed his enthusiasm for the move, stating the team were “thrilled” to be relocating to Murwillumbah’s main street at Palm Court, and the feedback has been positive from readers.

“This new space will not only enhance our visibility but also allow us to better connect with the community we serve. You can pop in whilst doing your shopping,” he said.

“We invite all residents and local business owners to stop by, share their story ideas, and explore marketing opportunities with us. We always stick to our motto of: ‘locals supporting locals’”.

The new location is hoped to provide an accessible hub for community engagement, fostering collaboration between the newspaper and its readers.

Mr Howard emphasised the importance of

“We have grown our circulation significantly over the years from around 19,000 papers to 21,500 copies delivered every Thursday right across the Tweed,” he said.

The Weekly is eager to hear from residents with their story ideas.

“Whether it’s a local event, a business initiative, or an inspiring personal story, our aim is to ensure that the voices of the Tweed Shire, from coast to country, are heard loud and clear,” he said.

As part of the transition, The Weekly plans to enhance its offerings and continue its commitment to covering news that matters most to the community.

Mr Howard reassured readers that the paper will maintain its focus on delivering quality journalism that highlights local issues, events and achievements.

“This is not just a move for us; it’s an opportunity to strengthen our ties within the community and make The Weekly even more accessible from the main street,” he said.

The Weekly’s main phone number (02) 6672 4443 will remain the same and you can call the

Murwillumbah Public School

Kindergarten students enrolling at Murwillumbah Public school in 2025 have now had two sessions of the transition program.

|All the current future students are thoroughly enjoying their opportunity to enjoy “Big School”.

It is not too late to join this excellent program as it continues on:

Friday 18 October

9.30am – 2.30pm

Friday 25 October

9.30am – 2.30pm

Friday 1 November

9.30am – 2.30pm

Friday 8 November

9.30am – 2.30pm

There will then be a graduation ceremony and information session for parents from 2.00pm – 2.30pm on Friday 8th November. Please contact the school on 66721467 if you want your child to be involved.

Les Daley

The transition program gives parents the opportunity to visit classrooms see and feel for themselves the wonderful learning environment that has been created for our youngest students.

The classrooms are stimulating and set up to meet all students learning needs. The classrooms are resource rich abounding with books, colourful blocks and puzzles, laptops, art and craft resources and an enormous range of learning materials. The classroom design and furniture has been developed to create a learning space that is attractive, safe and particularly supportive of shared learning activities.

Students are offered a rich and balanced curriculum. In addition to a focus on literacy and numeracy children will be exposed to a broad range of creative arts. A specialist teacher delivers a music program that emphasises singing, playing and listening. Dance is a feature every week as are group

yoga sessions. A comprehensive sporting program called “ Mini t” is offered to all Kindergarten students. In library and technology students again get specialist instruction in use of laptops to enhance their learning.

The school provides signi cant support to kindergarten students and parents by providing all enrolling students with a school uniform and backpack.

Best beginnings take place when teachers, parents and students are fully involved in the learning process. Murwillumbah Public School listens to and welcomes parents as signi cant partners that are critical in ensuring best outcomes and best beginnings for all students. Begin a wonderful learning journey and enrol at Murwillumbah Public School.

Some of The Weekly team members at the new site - with the move happening this month

Women’s surfing boon

By Jo Kennett

SURFING HAS always been a bit of a boys club, despite an ever-increasing number of female surfers joining the ranks, with a dearth of women at magazines, clubs and competitions, unless they were making the sandwiches or answering the phones.

While things have improved in recent years with more females playing a leading role in professional surfing, a $1 million federal government grant to Surfing Australia designed to address the imbalance has been welcomed by local women in the industry.

The funding for the ‘New Wave of Female Boardriders’ project, delivered over the next three years, will allow the peak surfing body to establish 50 new women’s boardrider clubs, provide free female judging, coaching and officials courses, host an annual women’s development camp at the Hyundai Surfing Australia High Performance Centre (HPC), and a range of other initiatives designed to support women’s surfing at every level.

The announcement was made on Thursday, October 3, at the Hyundai HPC by local Member for Richmond, Justine Elliot (pictured above with key local surfing identities), alongside key females from Australia’s surf community.

“The ‘New Wave of Female Boardriders’ is a self-sustaining program that fosters a culture of respect and gender equality, inclusion in sport and physical activity at local, state, and national levels, and a strong sense of community

belonging,” Ms Elliot said.

“As your local Labor MP, I’m proud to be delivering $1 million for Surfing Australia to increase female participation in surfing.

“This federal funding is from the Albanese Government’s Play Our Way program, which is designed to remove barriers to women and girls participating in sport and physical activity.

“Play Our Way is all about creating greater opportunities for women and girls to have an equal chance to get the fun, satisfaction, and health benefits sport offers.”

Cabarita-based performance coach Belen Alvarez-Kimble, who founded Australia’s first all-female surf school Salty Girls Surf School in 2008, said the funding will create more opportunities for women to enter the water “in a safe space, learn the rules, and then transition into boardrider clubs”.

“It will open up so many great opportunities for women to progress their surfing to the next level,” Belen told The Weekly.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to have this funding to support the next generation of young women in the water and provide them with the safe space they haven’t had before.”

Surfing Australia Chief of Sport for Events, Participation, and Community, Luke Madden, called the investment a “game-changer for women’s surfing”.

“We’re creating a pathway that will see more women involved in surfing at every level — from beginners in local boardrider clubs to female coaches on the beach,” he said.

Calls for more details

By Jonathon Howard

RESIDENTS ARE responding with mixed reviews following a recent report in The Weekly (September 26) regarding the proposed Cudgen Connection development.

A rezoning application for 741 Cudgen Road was submitted to the NSW Government in May, with plans to invest around $300 million to build a health and staff accommodation precinct.

The 5.69-hectare site, which is listed as state significant farmland (SSF), was purchased for $4 million in 2017.

The Weekly editor has since received around 25 responses from residents, with many calling for “more details”, especially around the state significant farmland classification, parking and road congestion.

Speaking for around 100 members of the Kingscliff Ratepayers and Progress Association (KRPA), president Peter Newton described the proposed development “as another assault on the farmland of the Cudgen plateau”.

“The moment the new hospital was rezoned from SSF, the community was give an ironclad guarantee that no more SSF would be given over to non-agricultural development,”

Mr Newton said.

“It’s not just the KRPA members against this, and while we acknowledge that this is early in the process, we know many members of the community against this development.”

Mr Newton noted the views from many residents, including former councillor Warren Polglase, that the land in question has not been

farmed for many years.

However, Mr Newton said that some agricultural operations had been present on the land for some time, including hydroponics and a nursery.

“Technically that’s not intensive farming, but where it fits the requirements of SSF and this is about future preservation of the land to accommodate changes in farming and ag practices.

“If you concrete the land, it’s gone forever, but if we improve the land, we can farm it forever.

“That’s why the land is SSF, it considers the land for future farming practice, but if you lose the land it’s gone — this is the most valuable land in NSW.”

An overwhelming number of letter writers and residents told The Weekly that parking and road congestion were their biggest concerns.

The developer and part-owner of the land, Centuria Capital Limited, responded to The Weekly’s questions for more detail.

“Thanks for taking an interest in the Cudgen Connection planning proposal,” a spokesperson from Centuria told The Weekly.

“The proposed development is progressing according to the NSW DPHI (Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure ) planning pathway for the rezoning of the land.

“At the appropriate planning phase, the car parking will be documented in accordance with the authority requirements and ratios for the specific uses.

“In addition to providing appropriate parking numbers, the masterplan proposes to incorporate a significant public transport interchange to reduce reliance on private transport to benefit the entire area.”

Plaque theft plea

By Jo Kennett

A MAN who stole copper plaques from a cemetery in Tweed Heads South pleaded guilty in court on Monday, September 30.

Michael Bennett Gardner was charged with stealing 102 copper plaques from gravestones, malicious damage, and possessing a prohibited drug, after his arrest in Murwillumbah on August 30.

Prior to the arrest, Tweed-Byron police officers had commenced an investigation into the alleged theft of the plaques on August 20 from headstones at the Tweed Heads Lawn Cemetery on Kirkwood Road, .

Gardner will appear before the court in November for sentencing.

Police are still investigating the theft of 17 memorial plaques stolen between Wednesday, August 21, and Monday, August 26, from headstones at the Murwillumbah Lawn Cemetery on Tree Street, .

Tweed-Byron Police District Crime Manager, Acting Inspector Russell Ewing, said the thefts had hurt local families still grieving loved ones.

“Stealing from a cemetery is not only a deeply

disrespectful act, but is also incredibly hurtful to the families and friends who have lost loved ones,” A/Insp Ewing said.

“These plaques represent the memories of those who have passed, and their theft is a callous violation of a sacred space.”

Casuarina kids causing chaos

By Jo Kennett

A GROUP of teenagers are causing havoc in Casuarina, throwing rocks at cars and scaring residents, in what seems to be becoming a regular school holidays event.

A Tweed Coast father said his 18-year-old daughter had rocks thrown at her car, nearly causing her to crash, on Friday night at 11.30pm on Tweed Coast Road near Coles.

“She’s on her red Ps and has probably been driving for four or five months,” he said.

“She was driving home from work south on Tweed Coast Road, and just as she went past Coles, there was a group of about eight people all wearing black hoodies who ran out of the bushes and threw rocks at the car.

“She swerved, so if there had been a car coming the other way, who knows what would have happened.

“She straightened up, drove up the road, and then stopped and called the police.”

After pulling over to call the police, she was put on hold and eventually drove home and hung up.

“There is a scratch on the windscreen because they were pegging the rocks on the front of the car as they came towards her and there is a dent on the passenger side door as well,” the father said.

“It definitely shook her up.

“If you read the comments that followed on from my (social media) post about it, there is some pretty concerning behaviour going on.”

One woman responded to the post saying “a massive rock” was thrown at her car, causing two big cracks in the front windscreen, while others added their own stories.

The father thinks the local high school needs to do something about it.

“If my daughter’s passenger window had been down and she was hit in the head they could have killed her, that’s what happened to a woman a couple of years ago,” he said.

“It wouldn’t hurt for the high school to talk to the students and tell them that someone could be injured or killed and they would end up in jail and it would ruin the rest of their lives.

“There is usually a not very smart leader that no one will stand up to, so they usually just go along with it. Most well-adjusted kids would not throw rocks at cars.”

The teenagers have been hanging out around Casuarina Village shopping centre, smashing

bottles and scaring residents.

“I’d say maybe eight 12–15 year olds were congregating in the open space there inside the shopping precinct,” a woman in her 70s, who didn’t want to be identified, said.

“They all had electric bikes, were loud and using foul language and were being intimidating.

“This was a large group and it was the middle of the day in the school holidays.”

The woman, who works with at-risk youths, said it was the first time she had felt “a sense of unease” in Casuarina.

“I am cautious that at this stage of life if I fall it could be a little more serious than a few years ago,” she said.

She recalled issues with youths with unruly behaviour, bullying, property damage and theft and said action by Tweed police at the time seemed to stop the problems. She said it was important to involve parents/guardians, the law, educators and social workers in the solution.

“I honestly think this is a time to nip things in the bud; get all services involved and maybe form a youth action taskforce,” she said.

“Most of these kids are not bad but get caught up with peer pressure and need a sense of belonging.”

The resident was part of a night time youth support group in the shire and said often there were young girls or boys who needed a safe ride home in the early hours of the morning and often their parents weren’t home when they arrived.

The Weekly has contacted Tweed police for comment and will print their response to the activity in a future edition.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Has your vehicle been a target at the Tweed Coast? Share your thoughts or letter via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

102 plaques were stolen from the Tweed Heads Lawn Cemetery

A girl had a rock thrown at her windscreen just as she drove past Casuarina Village

To discuss your septic needs or would like some advice. Our friendly team can answer all of your septic and plumbing questions.

King invited to show

By Jonathon Howard

A FULL schedule for King Charles III and Queen Camilla during their upcoming Australian tour has sadly prevented their majesties from attending the opening of this year’s Murwillumbah Show.

As many locals can recall, the now King of England once opened the show in the mid 1970s as a strapping young prince.

Murwillumbah Show Society president Meredith Dennis, with the support of the board, wrote to Buckingham Palace to invite the King and Queen for a visit.

Sadly the royal couple are already engaged, but passed on how grateful they are for the invitation.

“The King has asked me to thank you for your thoughtful letter, in which you so kindly extended an invitation to their majesties during their forthcoming, autumn tour to the Commonwealth of Australia and the Independent State of Samoa, where the King and Queen will attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2024,” the palace wrote.

The letter addressed from Buckingham Palace said the King and Queen are unable to attend due to their volume of commitments.

“Although the King and Queen are unable to accept your offer due to the volume of requests that they have received, their majesties are most

grateful to you for thinking of them and would have me pass on their hopes that the occasion will be enjoyable for all involved,” Buckingham Palace wrote.

“The King would have me share his sincere thanks for your letter and has asked me to convey to you his warmest good wishes.”

“It was a beautiful response from Buckingham Palace writing for the King and Queen,” Ms Dennis told The Weekly.

“We would’ve loved to have them visit, but know they must have a busy schedule.”

The hoop pine tree planted at the entry to the showgrounds remains in place and was planted by the then Prince of Wales, now King, as seen below in 1977.

The Murwillumbah Show will open Friday and Saturday, November 1–2.

ALMOST HALF of all Tweed Shire women aged 50–74 are overdue for a mammogram, according to the Northern NSW Local Health District, who is urging those women to book a free scan.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month reveals that 44.7 per cent of women in the region are now overdue for their two-yearly breast cancer screening.

BreastScreen NSW Acting Director Patrick Magee said with around 300 local women expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, now is the time to book in a free, life-saving breast screen.

“For women aged 50–74, a breast screen every two years is still the best way to detect breast cancer early — before it can be seen or felt,” Mr Magee said.

“If you’re aged 50–74, make breast screening a priority. It only takes 20 minutes and no doctor’s referral is needed.”

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, BreastScreen NSW is also encouraging women to ‘Be A Friend, Tell A Friend’ about the importance of having regular mammograms.

Be A Friend, Tell A Friend encourages word of mouth and social media promotion among women to their friends, family and colleagues about the need to have regular mammograms.

Professor Tracey O’Brien AM, NSW Chief Cancer Officer and CEO of the Cancer Institute

NSW, said if detected in its earliest stages, a woman’s five-year breast cancer survival rate is 98 per cent. This drops to 43.9 per cent if detected later, when it has spread to other organs.

“More than 6500 women in NSW are expected to receive a breast cancer diagnosis this year, and 1,000 women are expected to lose their lives to the disease in 2024, so we need to do everything we can to support women and encourage them to book in a life-saving breast screen,” Professor O’Brien said.

“Early detection not only significantly increases a person’s chance of survival, it can also greatly reduce the need for invasive treatment like a mastectomy.

“I know how hard it can be to block out time for yourself. Unfortunately, breast cancer doesn’t wait, so I encourage all eligible women to stop and put themselves first — for themselves and their family.”

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women with age and being female the biggest risk factors — not family history.

For more information and to make an appointment at a local BreastScreen NSW clinic or mobile van, call: 13 20 50, or book online at www.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au.

For more information about the Be A Friend Tell A Friend promotion please visit: breastscreen.nsw.gov.au/breast-cancer-awarenessmonth/

Tweed Link

Tweed Shire Council’s proposal to raise the existing Clarrie Hall Dam wall (pictured) by 8.5 metres would almost triple its capacity to about 42,300 megalitres, securing the Tweed’s water supply until at least 2065.

Clarrie Hall Dam EIS now on public exhibition

Tweed Shire Council’s proposal to raise Clarrie Hall Dam by 8.5 metres has reached a significant milestone with the supporting Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) now on public exhibition.

Council lodged the EIS with the NSW Government’s Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure on Thursday 19 September soon after the comprehensive report on environmental impacts was declared complete, accurate, of high quality, and easy to understand by a registered environmental assessment practitioner.

The document is now available on the NSW Planning Portal at planningportal.nsw.gov.au/clarrie-hall-damraising and the department is welcoming feedback on the EIS through the portal until Wednesday 6 November 2024.

Council’s Water and Wastewater Business and Assets Manager Michael Wraight encouraged the community to have their say on this important infrastructure proposal for the Tweed.

“The NSW Government will consider all submissions received before making a recommendation on the proposal to the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, who will make the ultimate decision on whether it can go ahead,” Mr Wraight said.

“The EIS is a crucial step in the planning process and

ensures all potential impacts are identified and can be effectively mitigated.

“Raising the dam by 8.5 metres would almost triple its capacity to about 42,300 megalitres, securing the Tweed’s water supply until at least 2065.”

The EIS covers expert studies commissioned by Council into the impact of raising the dam wall by 8.5 metres on such issues as dam safety, cultural heritage, biodiversity, flooding, water quality and hydrology.

It also reviews the impact of construction on traffic, noise and air quality.

Community engagement

Drop-in sessions will be held face-to-face on Wednesday 23 October at Kingscliff Bowls Club from 5 to 7 pm, and on Thursday 24 October at the Murwillumbah CWA Hall from 12:30 to 2:30 pm and Uki’s Holy Trinity Church from 5 to 7 pm.

Online sessions are scheduled for Friday 25 October from 10 to 11:30 am and Monday 28 October from 5:30 to 7 pm.

Head to yoursaytweed.com.au/clarriehalldameis to register.

Should the proposal to raise Clarrie Hall Dam gain all NSW and Australian government approvals, and the elected Council decides to proceed, construction is expected to start in late 2026.

Making progress on community-led climate action

Would you like to contribute to community-led climate action in the Tweed?

Come along to the next Tweed Community Action Network meeting at the Murwillumbah Community Centre, Knox Park on Saturday 19 October from 10:30 am to 1 pm.

The Community Action Network is for people who want to take action for sustainable living and help develop community-led solutions to climate change. In the lead up to the Climate Summit in November, this workshop is an opportunity to check-in and plan next steps on energy efficiency, sustainable food and sustainable transport projects, or contribute new initiatives to be considered at the November event. Previous participants will share their progress

on action plans. If you haven’t attended before, we want your feedback and ideas to contribute to the Tweed’s plans for climate action and emissions reduction.

This is a free event hosted by Tweed Shire Council as part of its commitment to support the community to reduce our impact on the environment and respond to climate change for a sustainable future. Light lunch will be provided. Registrations are essential. For further information and to register, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/climate-action

For more information, contact Council’s sustainability education officer Jane Moad at tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au or phone 02 6670 2400.

172 L a day

In brief ...

New Mayor and Deputy Mayor to be elected at Thursday Council meeting

Tweed Shire’s newly elected Councillors will take their oaths or affirmations of office this Thursday 10 October, followed by an Extraordinary Meeting where they will vote to appoint the Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

The Extraordinary Meeting will take place in the Murwillumbah Council Chambers from 3:30 pm on Thursday 10 October and will be livestreamed. Follow the livestream online at tweed.nsw.gov.au/council-meetings

For full results of the 2024 Tweed Shire election, visit the NSW Electoral Commission website at elections.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 135 736.

Tweed students recognised in Speaking 4 the Planet comp

Tweed students have taken out top honours at the recent national Speaking 4 the Planet competition.

The winning students included Ella Abbey from Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar who was awarded second place in the Writing category, and the Murwillumbah High School collaborative entry, which received second place in the Art category.

The artwork featured contributions from Year 7 and Year 8 classes, who used newspapers, magazines, line drawings and water colours to create the celebration of bushland and trees to create habitat and wellbeing for our future.

The overarching topic for the competition was ‘Trees: the guardians of life’, with entrants required to show research and understanding about the importance of trees.

Find out more at tweed.nsw.gov.au/sustainable-living

MisterChef serves kitchen confidence Council is calling for participants for its MisterChef program which begins on Tuesday 22 October. MisterChef is a popular 6-week program designed for men who have recently had to start cooking for themselves and have limited cooking skills. The course will canvas essential skills related to planning, buying and preparing delicious healthy meals.

Cost for the full 6 weeks is $20. Materials supplied. MisterChef program details: Tuesday 22 October for 6 weeks every Tuesday 9:30 am – 12 noon, Banora Point Community Centre, cnr Leisure Drive and Woodlands Drive, Banora Point. To register your interest or for more information about this program, please contact Council’s Community Services team on 07 5569 3110 or via email communityservices@tweed.nsw.gov.au

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

Artwork submitted by Murwillumbah High School students won an award in the Speaking 4 the Planet competition.

Hockey Tweed scores with Barrie Smith clubhouse restoration following flood

A major goal has been scored for hockey on the Tweed with the completion of flood restoration and resilience works at the Barrie Smith fields in Murwillumbah.

Home to the Hockey Tweed Association, the facilities were inundated with floodwaters up to 1.8m deep in 2022.

Council’s Director Sustainable Communities and Environment Naomi Searle said the refurbishment was a collaborative effort, carried out under the NSW Government’s Sports Priority Needs Program FundOffice of Sport.

“It’s a great example where resilience has been built in through both infrastructure and the capacity of a community group, and a reflection on how the Tweed community has progressed since the flood disaster,” Ms Searle said.

Work included relocation of the main switchboard and floodlight boards to above 2022 flood levels, while clubhouse works saw the lower-level canteen equipment and materials replaced with flood-resilient measures.

Hockey Tweed Operations Manager Matt Bartell thanked Council for incorporating greater resilience in the project.

“The restoration project has delivered improved facilities and with these resilience measures in place, we will be in a much better position to bounce back quicker in the event of future floods,” Mr Bartell said.

“As the key facility for our sport in the Tweed, the work has delivered a facility which will benefit all our clubs into the future.”

Find out more about Flood Restoration and Resilience work at tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-recovery-update

Swing into business with range of free events this October

October Business Month is in full swing, with a range of free events still available for Tweed businesses to join.

October Business Month is part of Council’s Succeed in the Tweed initiative, designed to support new and existing businesses through the delivery of a range of tailor-made workshops and events.

Kicking off the second half of the OBM activities is the NSW Government’s Northern Rivers Expo being held at Twin Towns Conference and Events Centre at Tweed Heads on Tuesday 15 October, from 1 to 7 pm. It includes a day of innovation and networking, with top industry professionals and emerging talent coming together to showcase the latest advancements and trends, as well as informative sessions with progressive thought leaders.

To compliment the Northern Rivers Expo, Council is offering a collection of workshops and events to provide invaluable opportunities for skills development, networking, knowledge sharing and celebrating business success in the Tweed.

Council will also launch its new series of ‘Look Ahead’ conversations. These informal interactive sessions will offer local business owners and operators a unique chance to hear directly from Council’s key personnel on big future projects coming to the area.

Attendees will gain exclusive insights into the details of 3 major upcoming projects with these sessions designed to help businesses identify opportunities these projects may bring. The 3 sessions will cover the potential Clarrie Hall Dam wall raising, Tweed Coast Road widening and Industry Central/Council

Depot projects.

Rounding out the month will be a sustainability workshop for businesses looking to learn cost effective ways to reduce waste and lower their carbon footprint, an agritourism information session to learn about the new Agritourism laws and how they can benefit local farmers, and a special procurement session on ‘How to do business with Council’.

Remaining events in October:

• 10 October – Look Ahead – Clarrie Hall Dam potential Wall Raising session, Uki

• 15 October – Northern Rivers Expo, Twin Towns at Tweed Heads

• 17 October – Look Ahead – Tweed Coast Road Widening session, Kingscliff

• 23 October – Look Ahead – Industry Central/ Council Depot session, Murwillumbah

• 28 October – Agritourism, Murwillumbah

• 29 October – Sustainability Workshop: Can re-useables make a difference to our business?Cabarita Beach

• 31 October – Procurement Workshop: Doing Business with Council, Tweed Heads. All events are free, but tickets are limited, so book your spot today!

For a full calendar of events on offer as part of October Business Month, including booking details, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/october-business-month Follow the Succeed in Tweed Facebook group or sign up to the free e-newsletter for all the latest business and industry info by subscribing on Council’s homepage at tweed.nsw.gov.au

Barrie Smith clubhouse handover lower kitchen – Kelly Baker, Naomi Searle, Troy Thurlow, Gary Bryant and Matt Bartell.

Artists impression of the new Council Works Depot, the subject of a Look Ahead workshop on the 23 October, designed to help businesses identify opportunities this project may bring

Tweed trials container deposit and collection scheme

Council is trialling a new container deposit and collection scheme aimed at reducing waste to landfill and enabling community members to ‘pay it forward’.

Last month, container deposit and collection bollards were installed beside 24 public bins at Jack Evans Boat Harbour at Tweed Heads, Rowan Robinson Park at Kingscliff and Knox Park at Murwillumbah.

Members of the public can deposit a container at a purpose-built bottle return point, and another community member, group or charity can collect it and take it to a Return and Earn location for a 10-cent refund per eligible item.

Council’s Director of Sustainable Communities and Environment Naomi Searle said the scheme had both community and environmental benefits.

“Trials in other Australian councils have seen an increased rate of container recycling, diversion of waste from landfill, reduced bin contamination and community benefits through the Return and Earn program,” Ms Searle said.

“We anticipate similar outcomes here in the Tweed.” This initiative is part of Tweed’s Towards Zero Waste strategy, which is about maximising the recovery of resources and ensuring nothing is placed in landfill that doesn’t need to be.

Find the nearest Return and Earn exchange point at returnandearn.org.au/map

Extraordinary Council meeting agenda

Thursday 10 October 2024

The Council Meeting Agenda for Thursday 10 October 2024 is available on Council's website tweed.nsw.gov.au/councillorsmeetings. The meeting will be held at the Council Chambers, Murwillumbah Civic & Cultural Centre, Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah commencing at 3.30pm.

The agenda for these meetings, which may also include any late or supplementary reports, will be updated prior to the date of the meetings and is available on Council’s website. It should be noted that confidential items are considered in closed session, which excludes media and public. Also, the minutes of these meetings will be available as soon as practical following the meetings and are unconfirmed until they are formally adopted at the next Council meeting. Please be aware that meetings are livestreamed, and video recordings will be available on Council’s website following the meeting. A person’s image and/or voice may be broadcast. Attendance at the meeting is to be taken as consent by a person to their image and/or voice being webcast. Agenda

Reports for consideration

Confirmation of minutes

Reports From The General Manager

15.1. Oath or Affirmation of Office by Councillors

15.2. Method of Election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor for Period Ending September 2026

15.3. Election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor for period ending September 2026

Reports From The Director Corporate Services

19.1. Election Countback to Fill Casual Vacancies

19.2. Electoral Funding Obligations of Newly Elected Councillors and Mayors

19.3. Dates and Times for Planning Committee and Council Meetings

19.4. Council Committees - Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Delegate

Development application determinations

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

Application details

Approved

DA24/0120 - Swimming pool

Lot 375 DP 1073375, No. 153 Botanical Circuit, Banora Point

DA24/0212 - Swimming Pool

Lot 1104 DP 850253, No. 8 Cabana Court, Banora Point

DA24/0293 - In-ground pool and deck

Lot 1 SP 18588, Unit 1/No. 11 Allamanda Avenue, Banora Point

DA24/0300 - Use of existing deck and new roof over deck

Lot 297 DP 262343, No. 5 Kiora Street, Banora Point

DA24/0269 - Swimming pool

Lot 5 DP 546090, No. 2 Kauri Avenue, Bogangar

DA24/0282 - Shed, carport and associated works

Lot 4 DP 554841, No. 429 Carool Road, Carool

DA24/0312 - In-ground swimming pool

Lot 99 DP 1301249, No. 17 Sugar Mill Road, Cudgen

DA24/0327 - Dwelling with attached garage

Lot 54 DP 1300756, No. 43 Bowen Loop, Cudgen

DA24/0381 - Inground swimming pool

Lot 22 DP 1295758, No. 54 Bowen Loop, Cudgen

DA24/0382 - Inground swimming pool

Lot 95 DP 1301249, No. 9 Sugar Mill Road, Cudgen

DA23/0643 - Dwelling, shed and in-ground swimming pool

Lot 10 DP 866759, No. 14 Wedgetail Court, Dulguigan

DA24/0415 - Two pools

Lot 2 DP 1291087, No. 57A Nautilus Way, Kingscliff

DA24/0236 - Use of retaining walls and pool deck

Lot 85 DP 838556, No. 22 Castle Field Drive, Murwillumbah

DA24/0398 - Alterations and additions to existing dwelling

Lot 4 DP 396096, No. 49 Ewing Street, Murwillumbah

DA24/0046 - Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including new double garage and carport within the front building line

Lot 9 DP 818099, No. 6 Elvadale Place, Nunderi

DA24/0114 - 1.8m high front and side boundary fence

Lot 461 DP 1158686, No. 3 Hassett Drive, Pottsville

DA24/0275 - Swimming pool and associated decking

Lot 41 DP 869853, No. 3 Paula Court, Pottsville

Current vacancies

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

WATER WEEK 1

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

DA24/0315 - Carport within the front building line

Lot 115 DP 30960, No. 29 Lakes Drive, Tweed Heads West

DA24/0202 - Alterations and additions to existing shed including carport

Lot 9 DP 810164, No. 31 Braemar Place Urliup

DA23/0316 - Place of public worship, signage & ancillary uses including restaurant or cafe in five (5) stages (NRPP)

Lot 12 DP 830660, No. 90 Phillip Street, Chinderah

DA23/0566 - Demolition of existing structures, construction of a secondary dwelling, attached garage & front fence

Lot 30 DP 21680, No. 48 Sutherland Street, Kingscliff

DA24/0117 - Demolition of existing shed and carport and construction of secondary dwelling and two carports including new driveway crossovers

Lot 110 DP 263154, No. 8 Victoria Avenue, Pottsville

DA24/0181 - Partial change of use to vehicle sales or hire premises

Lot 504 DP 1132400, No. 25 Honeyeater Circuit, South Murwillumbah

DA23/0257 - Signage

Lot 2 DP 28438, Lot 3 DP 28438, Lot 1 DP 1125004, No. 109 Kennedy Drive, Tweed Heads

DA22/0851 - Use of unit 1 as light industry (signage manufacturing), use of unit 2 as light industry (printing,

DA24/0217 - Use of existing signage on existing commercial building

Lot 100 DP 807099, No. 23-27 Greenway Drive, Tweed Heads South

DA24/0359 - Signage

Lot 141 DP 1197576, No. 59-61 Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads South

Refused

DA23/0226 - Alterations and additions to existing dwelling and construction of a second unit on site to create a detached dual occupancy development and associated works

Lot 26 Section 4 DP 8568, No. 48 Charles Street, Tweed Heads

DA22/0509 - Demolition of existing structures, filing of the site and erection of 6 x 2 storey townhouses

Lot C DP 379713, No. 19 William Street, 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

Get the Tweed Link early

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

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

Section 4.55 Modifcation application for public comment

The following Section 4.55 application has been received by the Tweed Shire Council and may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au for a period of fourteen (14) days from Wednesday 9 October 2024 to Wednesday 23 October 2024.

The proposal is not designated development and the Tweed Shire Council is the consent authority.. Applicant Location Proposal File no. Newton Denny Chapelle Lot 1 DP 1218085; No. 55 Commercial Road MURWILLUMBAH amendment to Development Consent DA15/0685 for change of use to a childcare centres

Proposed modification

• The modification seeks to increase the number of student enrolments at the approved childcare centre by (7) seven, from the current 72 up to 79.

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 105 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 – GIPAA 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 Councils’ website tweed.nsw.gov.au/ development-applications.

Naomi Searle tries out the new container deposit and collection point at Kingscliff beach.

Master chef in town

By Madeleine Murray

EXCITING NEW developments are afoot at the Imperial Hotel restaurant in Murwillumbah.

New head chef Simon Moulden has arrived (as you may have already read in The Weekly) and is bringing years of experience in top restaurants around the world to the iconic ‘Pink Hotel’.

Simon cut his teeth working for lauded Marco Pierre-White at London’s Savoy Hotel, went on to be executive chef of The Beverly Hilton LA, worked in famous Las Vegas hotels and later launched his own venue, The Yard, on the Gold Coast.

Now the talented chef has arrived in Murwillumbah, helping to curate and refine food at The Impy.

His first project, the winter menu, is a celebration of pub classics with attention to subtle details.

The Weekly visited one weekend, sat outside with friends and shared a bowl of chips with garlic confit aioli over drinks.

The chips were remarkably good — perfectly brown, crispy, tasty and stayed hot in the basket.

Simon clearly pays attention to detail.

“It’s about filtering the oil every night, making sure the oil is changed regularly, then the chips stay hot and crunchy,” he told The Weekly.

“We’ve got some good staff who are really focused on the food. I would like to get a hat award within two years. It will take a lot of work.”

Simon hasn’t made a lot of changes to the new menu, but concentrates on the little details that make food delicious and special.

“We are still doing your pub favourite calamari dusted in rice flour, I finish it with togarashi, a Japanese spice mix of ground up chilli, nori, dry miso and sesame.

“We make all our own sauces now. As for meat, I’ve sourced Marble Score 3 Black Angus

which is a really nice cut.

“Coming here is a change, but I’m excited. We’re introducing more specials on the board, run weekly daily specials, getting in a lot of good fresh fish, fish tacos with flathead tacos with pineapple salsa and a chipotle aioli and shredded cabbage.

“Lamb cutlets are served with hummus, homemade mint oil, labna and chargrilled honey pumpkin.

“We are introducing little details slowly and by the end of next summer we can start rolling into a really nice fine bistro winter menu.”

Since then, The Weekly has visited several times, and can attest that the Marble Score 3 Black Angus, Caesar salad, beer-battered prawns and barramundi are all superb, with an added bonus of $10 margaritas from 5pm to 7pm weekdays.

The Imperial Hotel is at 115 Murwillumbah Street, Murwillumbah. For more information please visit: www.impy.com.au

Helping athletes to thrive

FAMOUS breakdancer and Tweed resident Jeff Dunne never thought he’d compete at the Paris 2024 Olympics, but he made history by taking part in the first Olympic breaking event ever thanks to the Aussie Athlete Fund (AAF), founded by five-time Olympian Natalie Cook OAM OLY.

Now the 16-year-old, who has been breaking since the age of six, is travelling the world competing in back-to-back tournaments and says he owes it all to the AAF’s $1 Million Challenge, sponsored by Ampol Australia.

The initiative aims to raise $1 million for 100 aspiring athletes annually, with individuals matched to businesses that help them raise $10,000 each.

Jeff, who lives in Casuarina and is a student at Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar at Terranora, was partnered with The Watch Factory, which donated more than $6,000 to help cover expenses for Paris 2024.

Thanks to some additional independent donations, Jeff is now just $400 away from his $10,000 goal and says he will always be grateful for the chance to compete.

“It’s been such a pleasure to be involved with the AAF and Paris was an amazing experience,” he said.

“I never thought breaking would become an Olympic sport because it’s always been very underground and not as popular as other sports, but this was a chance for me to showcase it to the world. I met so many new people and although I didn’t win a medal it was a reward just to be there.”

Following Paris, Jeff competed in breaking events in Holland, Slovakia and Portugal and Korea.

Mum Rhondda said the whole family was “super proud” of him.

“It’s wonderful to watch him in action,” she said.

“Breaking takes a lot of athleticism but at the same time creativity. Jeff makes it look

Local farm families (commercial or hobby) are urgently required to host Japanese students from 4th-8th December (2-4 students/farm) and will be generously remunerated in return for providing a unique ‘home away from home’. Activities with families would normally

include interactive activities on your property including picking fruit + veges, feeding animals, baking/cooking, (free) sightseeing around the local region and/ or visiting other farms. Pickup + drop off in Murwillumbah (within 1.5 hours travel), training and support provided.

physically strong and easy at the same time.”

As well as financial support, the AAF provides additional help through education, teaching athletes how to deal with sponsors, and navigating the challenges of life after sport.

It was launched following Natalie’s own experience as an Olympian. After winning a beach volleyball gold medal for Australia at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and making five Olympic squads in a career that also included a bronze medal in 1996, she ended up with a $300,000 debt and had to lean on her father for help.

Natalie said many sportspeople selected to represent Australia were severely hindered by a lack of financial support.

Figures reveal almost half of Australia’s best athletes earn below the poverty line threshold, with an annual income of less than $23,000, according to the Australian Sports Foundation. Although breaking will not be an event at the next Olympics, Jeff hopes to see it reinstated for Brisbane 2032.

“I’m completely committed to my sport,” he said. “I wake up early before school for practice and even after a long day at school, I put in many hours in the evening to improve and succeed. There is nothing I want more than to one day stand on the podium with a medal.

“I’ll be at my peak in 2032 so watch this space!”

Athletes and businesses/organisations can get involved in the Aussie Athlete Fund at aussieathletefund.com/participate

Attention to detail makes every dish delicious, according to the new Impy head chef

Olympic breakdancer Jeff Dunne

atch up with Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin

LABOR GOVERNMENTS at state and federal level are committed to easing cost of living pressures and this month I have an update on some of the latest measures.

Woolworths and Coles face legal action

E arlier this year I applauded the Federal Albanese Government’s move directing the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to conduct an inquiry into supermarket pricing.

So it is great to see that the ACCC is now taking legal action against supermarket giants Woolworths and Coles for allegedly duping shoppers with phoney price dropping. This is scandalous if proven true…shoppers thought they were getting a bargain only to be ripped off at the cash register.

The ACCC inquiry examined the pricing practices of the supermarkets and the relationship between wholesale, including farmgate, and retail prices.

Farmers, who have been calling out the supermarkets for years have welcomed the court action as a step in the right direction.

Power to the people

T here are so many houses that are too hot in summer and too cold in winter and we know the expense of heating and cooling our homes can have a big impact on our energy bills.

I’m pleased to report the Minns Labor Government has committed $290 million in new funding for an energy strategy to help households and businesses save money and reduce power use.

The government’s Consumer Energy Strategy: Powering our People and Communities, will make it easier for households and businesses to access energy saving technologies like solar, batteries and energy efficiency upgrades

The strategy is a response to the Independent Electricity Supply and Reliability Check-up that the Minns Government commissioned last year.

In 2020 the Parliament passed the Electricity Investment Bill, a climate change strategy and path to renewables for NSW. However that policy lacked a government process involving the community.

This called for a whole-of-government approach to our transition to renewables and the Consumer Energy Strategy is the missing piece of the strategy. It is designed around people and communities.

The government is committed to making it easier for all consumers to save money and cut emissions no matter where you live, or whether you rent or own your home.

A typical house could save an average of $2000 a year and 1100 kilograms of greenhouse gas emissions with energy saving technologies.

Already many households and businesses are active participants in our energy system. New energy technologies and services like batteries

and virtual power plants mean consumers can be rewarded for the energy they generate and can store it for when it is needed most.

The NSW Consumer Energy Strategy outlines 50 actions to help households and businesses including:

•A new incentive and rebate scheme to help households upgrade to energy saving technologies. This will be rolled out by the end of 2025.

•New home energy ratings from 2025 so renters and buyers have more information about the cost of heating and cooling their potential homes.

•Setting the first targets in Australia for solar and battery uptake.

•Improving the safety and reliability of installations by increasing the number of electrical safety inspectors.

•Providing practical resources so people can make informed decisions to improve energy efficiency.

•Boosting consumer rights and protections.

The Consumer Energy Strategy comes on top of the $435.4 million for annual energy bill rebates and debt relief, $200 million to support the rollout of public EV charging stations and $175 million to make energy savings upgrades for 24,000 social housing homes.

The strategy is available at: www.energy.nsw. gov.au/energy-strategy

Cutting red tape for teachers

Great news for our teachers, with changes to teacher accreditation and professional development that will free them from a lot of tedious red tape and administrative work.

Teachers are required to do 100 hours of professional development every five years to maintain their accreditation.

The changes mean they won’t be forced to do 50 of these hours in previously mandated areas, but instead they will be able to identify the professional development that is relevant to their teaching and the education of their students. They will no longer need to write time consuming evaluations of the professional development they complete.

These changes will ensure that every hour of professional learning that our teachers do is valuable to their classroom.

Janelle shops for milk at Woolies Lismore Central in January this year

Uki vehicles recovered Fuel price bonanza

By Kayla Finlayson

A GOLD COAST towing company successfully retrieved a Ford Ranger and Avan caravan from the Tweed riverbank south of the Aults Road crossing behind Uki on Friday, October 4.

The ensemble was washed off the crossing by a quickly rising river several nights prior to the retrieval after the region received its heaviest rainfall on record for September.

I have been providing updates to The Weekly since the recovery to determine the process and if any damage was reported to the river.

A couple, said to have been in their 60s, with their dog had safely evacuated from the flooded scene and watched in horror as the waters rose.

A local Facebook group paused all member contributions due to an onslaught of heavy opinions targeting the driver during

the crisis, with many also expressing their sympathies.

The news prompted the couple to be contacted by members of other media groups with the story extending all the way to the USA and back.

Some animosity had also stirred amongst local towing businesses about the recovery being outsourced — detracting from the local economy.

The vehicles both rested upright on the riverbank only 2km downstream whilst water levels receded. The insurance company’s recovery team gained access via private property.

Tweed Shire Council confirmed minimal to no damage or pollution was contributed to the river/riverbank.

Sources have confirmed that after rapidly filling up with water the vehicle acted as an anchor to the floating caravan.

The couple with their dog had been enjoying a short yearly escape to the beau-

tiful and sometimes deceiving wilderness around Uki.

Two Aults Road residents reported leaving the road only 15 minutes prior to the couple’s tragic loss.

The driver halted at the bridge to inspect the river level when allegedly making an easy mistake in uncertain conditions of leaving the handbrake off.

In that moment the back wheel of the caravan is believed to have veered off the narrow bridge making it stuck and a difficult recovery.

It didn’t take long for the river level to rise, submerging the driver’s seat and sealing the vehicles’ fate.

Another local responder attempted to get the vehicle out unsuccessfully.

The event was of high interest amongst locals and Uki chalk artist Hobie Porter created a piece featuring the event for the Bastion Lane Coffee Shop.

By Jo Kennett

WHAT A thrill for cheapskates like me to be able to fill up with petrol for $68.18, with unleaded fuel at BP Tweed Heads at a measly $1.57 a litre last week, off the back of falling demand in global oil largely thanks to China and it’s push into renewable energy.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Chinese oil demand is currently firmly in contraction, falling by 1.7 per cent, (280 000 barrels p/d) to July, in contrast to the 9.6 per cent average growth in 2023.

It’s the booming EV market that is causing most of that decline, with more than half the cars sold in China in July and August electric, and a significant share of new trucks now using natural gas or electricity.

That’s off the back of a big push from the Chinese government to become more reliant on renewable energy rather than fossil fuels.

The big slump in construction there has also impacted gas oil, the major fuel for construction equipment and transport of materials.

The IEA said that weaker demand for plastics, used in construction and manufacturing, is reflected in lower fuel intake as well. Continue reading on page 24.

MURWILLUMBAH TYRE SERVICE

Double Trouble - chalk art by Hobie Porter. The main photo by Deborah Glacken shows the vehicle stranded. The inset image on the right is by Kayla Finlayson on the riverbank

Cheap fuel here to stay?

By Jo Kennett

Continued from page 22.

The price of Brent crude oil dropped to $68.51 during the week ending September 13, the lowest since 2021, driven by slowing growth in China, the world’s largest oil importer, and the US, the largest oil producer and consumer. The average national petrol price for the week ending September 29 fell to 172.6 cents a litre, according to the Australian Institute of Petroleum, with diesel 178.6 cents a litre.

On October 8, the cheapest Tweed fuel was at

Greens offer housing plan

By Jonathon Howard

THE FEDERAL Greens Party has unveiled plans to build affordable housing under a ‘Federal Public Property Developer’, with concept images released for the first apartment building at Tweed Heads.

Max Chandler-Mather, the Greens’ Housing Spokesperson and Mandy Nolan, Greens candidate for Richmond, shared the announcement of a 13-storey, 65 apartment development which would be built by the public developer at the existing Tweed Heads Telstra depot site on Enid Street.

Ms Nolan said the Northern Rivers has some of the highest housing and rental prices in the country.

The proposal is part of the Greens’ policy to establish a federal government-owned property developer to build 610,000 homes over the decade to be sold and rented for below market prices to first-home buyers and renters.

As per the Greens’ policy, rents in the apartments will be set at 25 per cent of income or 70 per cent of market rent, whichever is lower, while house prices will be set at 5 per cent over the cost of construction.

While anyone who doesn’t already own property would be eligible to access the apartments, priority allocation would be given to people with connection to the local area, including families with children enrolled in local schools, people who work in key local services such as hospitals, schools and community services and First Nations community members.

“This is the most exciting housing plan I’ve seen in years, because it would actually deliver genuinely affordable housing.

Finally,” Ms Nolan said.

“To solve the housing crisis, we need bold ideas that are practical, achievable and beautiful.

“The public housing developer breaks the stranglehold the private market has on housing and delivers housing security for struggling working people and families.”

The Greens analysis estimates that the ‘Public Housing Developer’ could see around 3,600 homes for sale and rent built in the Richmond electorate, with up to 420 starting construction in the public developer’s first year.

The project will sell homes at just over the cost of construction to any first-home buyer, saving a first-home buyer in the Tweed up to $253,000 on the cost of a home (a 31 per cent discount compared to the median private market home).

Around 70 per cent of homes built would be available as rentals, capped at whatever is lower of 25 per cent of household in-

come or 70 per cent of market rent, saving a renter in the Tweed up to $15,600 a year (a 45 per cent discount on market rent).

“Here in Richmond, we have the worst housing unaffordability in the country,” Ms Nolan said.

“Our nurses, teachers, police and emergency services workers can no longer afford to live here, leaving our essential services compromised by understaffing.

“Housing key workers not only helps keep our community here, it keeps us safe.

“This plan would make sure our kids could buy a home in the community where they grew up instead of us losing so many of our young locals and workforce because they just can’t afford to live here.

“Housing security is a game-changer. You shouldn’t have to take on a million-dollar mortgage for a three-bedroom suburban dwelling in a regional area where the average wage won’t ever cover saving for the deposit or the repayments.”

Social media study results

RESIDENTS ACROSS the Tweed Shire and NSW, who took part in a ground-breaking social media survey, supported (87 per cent) an age restriction for social media use, with 16 being the most suggested minimum age.

The state government survey, conducted between August 11 and September 15 this year, engaged more than 21,000 participants from across the state through the ‘Have Your Say’ platform. This sentiment was particularly strong among parents, with 91 per cent of those with children aged 5–17 advocating for age limits.

The survey reveals a growing concern over the time young people spend on social media, with those aged 16–17 averaging over three hours per day. This trend begins as early as 10–12 years old, where 70 per cent of children are already using social media, and usage steadily increases with age.

Additionally, 35 per cent of parents of 13–15 year olds, especially in single-parent households, report that social media has a ‘negative’ or ‘very negative’ impact on their child’s life.

Parents cited concerns over excessive screen time leading to issues such as addiction, exposure to inappropriate content, and the detrimental effect on their children’s daily responsibilities. Young people themselves echoed some of this sentiment, with 66 per cent of 16–17 year olds expressing that social media distracts them from essential tasks such as schoolwork and family obligations.

The survey highlights a clear correlation between time spent on social media and negative outcomes reported by parents.

Parents whose children use social media for more than four hours a day were more than twice as likely to note negative impacts on their child’s life, compared to parents whose children spend less than an hour a day online.

The most frequently mentioned issues include ‘cyber security risks’, ‘exposure to harmful content’, and ‘concerns over how social media usage is affecting children’s behaviour’.

Notably, parents of younger children who lack rules or safety measures often cited uncertainty about what to implement, signalling a need for more guidance and solutions. The insights gathered from the survey will play a crucial role in shaping discussions at the upcoming Social Media Summit.

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The Greens concept proposal for housing on Enid Street at Tweed Heads, to be built under the Greens' plan to launch a public property developer model

Beach safety and fun in the sun

By Jo Kennett

TWEED SHIRE Council has joined forces with Surf Life Saving NSW to install a suite of new beach safety devices along the Tweed Coast.

The rescue tubes have been installed at nine beach locations across the length of the Tweed Coast, just in time for the busy summer season.

The devices will aid rescuers trying to assist people struggling in the water to stay afloat until additional help arrives, particularly important if no lifeguards are on patrol at the time.

Council is also working with Surf Life Saving NSW and Surf Life Saving Australia to install a new emergency response beacon (ERB) on the beach just south of Norries Headland at Cabarita. Once installed, individuals will be able to press a button to call for help and the Surf Life Saving

Support Operations Centre will respond to assist.

Council’s Manager Parks and Active Communities Murray Smith said the devices would save lives.

“We are pleased to be working together with Surf Life Saving NSW to roll out these beach safety devices across the Tweed Coast to make our beaches safer for the community,” Mr Smith said.

“Our open beaches in the Tweed are notorious for rips and sweeps so it is paramount we have these safety devices readily available for the community to use in an emergency.

“We know these safety devices will save lives and that’s the goal here, to make our beaches safer, especially outside of patrol hours. We are excited for these to be in place, just in time for our peak summer season.”

Surf Life Saving NSW Tweed Lifeguard Supervisor Lachlan Field welcomed the new safety devices.

“Last season was a busy one for our lifeguards who conducted 95 rescues, 168 first aids and over 40,000 preventive actions,” Mr Field said.

“More than 500,000 people were recorded using our beaches on the Tweed last season.

“The introduction of these safety devices is a great initiative as they extend the safety net at unpatrolled beaches and outside patrol hours.

“It’s really important when someone is using these tubes that they call Triple-0 first, assess the risk and only enter the water if they’re a confident swimmer. The last thing we want is a double drowning.

‘The device itself is really easy to

use. You simply put the red sash on and as you swim out the flotation device will drag behind you. It’s important you extend the rescue tube to the patient so they grab that first and not the rescuer and then it’s up to the rescuer whether they swim back or wait out the back and float with the tube until emergency services get there.”

Purchase and installation of the res-

cue devices has been funded by Tweed Shire Council, who will also oversee maintenance of the equipment. Please notify Council of any usage, loss, or damage to the equipment by scanning the QR code on the storage box.

See the map of the beach safety devices at www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/ beach-safety-devices

Tweed Lifeguard Supervisor Lachlan Field, lifeguard Finn Whitney with Tweed Shire Council's Murray Smith

Lifeguard Services lifeguard Finn Whitney demonstrates the rescue device

Boozy driver fails to stop

Continued from page 3.

At about 7am on Saturday, September 28, police attempted to stop a vehicle on the M1 Pacific Motorway at Tweed Heads due to allegedly being unregistered.

When the vehicle allegedly failed to stop, a pursuit was initiated. When it stopped, a 51-yearold man was arrested.

Police allege a search of the vehicle revealed two sets of number plates. The man was taken

drivers licence/state name/address, refusing or failing to submit to a breath analysis, refusing or failing to submit to an oral fluid test and unlawfully possess number plates.

He was issued a court attendance notice to appear before Tweed Heads Local Court on Monday, October 28.

A total of 17 positive breath tests, 52 positive drug tests and 520 speeding drivers were detected.

censed drivers were detected and 421 othercluding 18 drivers with mobile phone offences. An additional 29 traffic-related charges and 15hicle infringements and one defect notice issued.

Local police were out in force across the long weekend with an alarming number of drink drivers

Magic of make-believe

By Madeleine Murray

THE MAGIC of make-believe comes to life when Murwillumbah Theatre Company presents the enchanting Saving Frogton’s Home from Saturday, October 19, at Murwillumbah Civic Centre.

Written and directed by MTC’s own artistic director Karen Kester, Saving Frogton’s Home is an Australian adaption of the fairy tale classic The Frog Prince by the Brothers Grimm. It is a light- hearted comical pantomime that also explores the importance of protecting our native species.

In true ‘panto’ style, the audience interacts with the characters through song and dance while cheering on the heroes and booing the villains.

It’s Zeb’s birthday and as he blows out the candles on his cake, he wishes for a best friend. Instead, he receives an anonymous crystal ball with an annoying pixie living in it. What’s worse, he must learn to use it.

Actor Danielle Linegar who plays the pixie Millicent said Saving Frogton’s Home combined the classic elements of traditional pantomimes and fairy tales and a message to preserve our flora and fauna.

“One of my most important lines is a reminder that small steps add up to big changes,” Danielle told The Weekly.

“We can all do little things that can make a big difference to our natural world. This is a really empowering reminder, and it gives the characters and audience a sense of hope and inspiration.”

Innovative writer and director Karen Kester creates texts and performances that blend humour, physical comedy with compelling narratives and striking visual storytelling.

Saving Frogton’s Home is a delightful show for the entire family and is sure to keep everyone laughing and thinking.

To add to all the excitement, the Friday, November 1, show will celebrate a Freaky Friday at Frogton Halloween Night, so dress up and get into the swing of things. Come as a witch, goblin or monster. You will love Saving Frogton’s Home.

Saving Frogton’s Home is on at the Murwillumbah Civic Centre on Saturday, October 19 at 6pm; Sunday, October 20 at 2pm; Saturday, October 26 at 6pm; Sunday, October 27 at 2pm; Friday, November 1 at 6pm; Saturday, November 2 at 6pm and Sunday, November 3 at 2pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and $7 for children and are available from murwillumbahtheatrecompany.com or Trybooking at https://www. trybooking.com/CNXWO

There will be fun and excitement when

Saving Frogton's Home hits the stage this month

BACHitecture a must

By Madeleine Murray

THE GOLD Coast Chamber Orchestra (GCCO) presents BACHitecture at Bond University on Friday, October 18, and Friday, October 25, and at the A&I Hall in Bangalow on Saturday, October 26.

GCCO will present a program including Concerto for Violin and Oboe, featuring superstar per formers Tania Frazer (OAM) on oboe and Margaret Blades, leader of GCCO, on violin. Combining the magnificent timeless brilliance of JS Bach with the extraordinary design and acoustics of the Abedian School of Ar chitecture at Bond University, Gold Coast, this concert will be a breath taking sensory experience.

“ The Bach Double Concerto for Oboe and Violin is shrouded in mystery,” Tania told The Weekly.

“Scholars have debated whether it was truly written for two harpsichords or orig inally for oboe and violin. I guess that one of t he main reasons everyone fights over it is because it’s one of the most sublime pieces ever composed!

“The slow movement is heavenly, and the outer movements are the most perfect example of a musical conversation between the two soloists.

“I first played this piece when I was 16 and it has been my favourite oboe piece ever since! I’m thrilled to perform it again with the Gold Coast Chamber Orchestra and my dear friend, Margaret Blades — I know the audience will love it as much as we do!”

Margaret Blades, leader of the GCCO, is the solo violinist.

“To play this magnificent concerto for oboe and violin by JS Bach is an absolute thrill, especially when paired with Tania Frazer,” Margaret told The Weekly.

“The piece brings both instruments together in a vital, energetic and harmonious way, and

accompanied by GCCO will be a real treat.”

There will be a performance of the famous Toccata and Fugue in D Minor BWV 565, one of the greatest works for organ, arranged for string sextet. Also featuring in this concert will be VOX BOND, the new choir at Bond University, presenting a choral masterpiece by Finnish composer Pekka Kuusisto.

BACHitecture is on at 5:.0pm Qld time on Friday, October 18, and 5.30pm Qld time on Friday, October 25, at The Abedian School of Architecture, Bond University, 14 University Dr, Robina, Qld. It is on again at 5pm NSW time on Saturday, October 26 at the A&I Hall on Station St, Bangalow.

Marvellous Melodies

NORTHERN RIVERS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PROUDLY PRESENTS

Marvellous Melodies

Marvellous Melodies

Melodies

Featuring ar�st / author / composer Ma� O�ley presen�ng “How to Make a Bird” by author Meg McKinlay from The Sound of Picture BooksTM series with Tina Wilson, NRSO Ensemble and Marco Bellasi AND

Robert SCHUMANN - Piano Quintet in E flat major Op. 44

FEATURING: Ar�st MATT OTTLEY with his “ Sounds of Picture Book Series” & NRSO Ensemble With conductor Marco Bellasi

Date: SATURDAY 19th October 2024

FEATURING: Ar�st MATT OTTLEY with his “ Sounds of Picture Book Series” & NRSO Ensemble With conductor Marco Bellasi ROBERT SCHUMANN Piano Quintet in E flat Op. 44

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

Tickets: Adults $50 | Concession $45

Time: 2.30pm NSW / 1.30pm QLD www.nrso.com.au

Date: Please Note, SATURDAY 19th OCTOBER 2024

Date: Please Note, SATURDAY 19th OCTOBER 2024

Time: 2.30pm NSW / 1.30pm QLD

Time: 2.30pm NSW / 1.30pm QLD

Ter�ary students over 18 years $20 School students 5-18 years $10

Preschool children free of charge

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

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

Tickets: Adults $50 I Concession $45

Tickets: Adults $50 I Concession $45

School Students $10 & Students 18 years & over $20 Children under 5 years free of charge (when accompanied by an adult)

School Students $10 & Students 18 years & over $20 Children under 5 years free of charge (when accompanied by an adult)

Tickets can be purchased at: www.nrso.com.au or at Murwillumbah Music 02 6672 5404 (credit card facility)

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

Enquiries 0478 012 324

NORTHERN RIVERS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA www.nrso.com.au

Tania Frazer on oboe favourite work. LEFT:

Margaret Blades is a virtuoso violinist

THIS YEAR marks a significant milestone for the Queensland Country Women’s Association Hall at Coolangatta, a cherished community venue that has been a part of Coolangatta for 95 years and has a strong connection to the Tweed.

Originally opened in 1929, Coolangatta QCWA Hall was built to foster community connection and provide a space for social activities.

Its original 1920s plan and architecture has remained, and over the decades the hall has hosted everything from wedding receptions and milestone birthday parties to school plays and charity events.

It has seen lively dances, community meetings, war effort activities, community groups and much more.

This historic hall has witnessed countless memories and served as a gathering place for generations.

QCWA Coolangatta Branch President Karen Howell reflected on the hall’s significance.

“Coolangatta QCWA Hall is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of our community’s resilience and unity,” Karen said.

“There is no measure for the community work that has been carried out in the hall over the decades. It’s also wonderful to have one of the few original buildings in Coolangatta, it has its

own character.”

To commemorate this remarkable anniversary, the Coolangatta QCWA is organising a celebratory event on Tuesday, October 15.

The morning tea will include entertainment, a nostalgic photo exhibition and history, and guests will have the opportunity to share their favourite memories and stories tied to the hall.

“Coolangatta QCWA Hall has brought people together for nearly a century, and we are excited to honour its legacy and the countless individuals who have made it a vibrant part of our community,” Karen said.

The morning tea is free to the public, and members are encouraging residents of all ages to join in the celebration, but numbers are limited.

“We want everyone to feel welcome and part of this milestone,” Karen said.

As Coolangatta QCWA Hall approaches its centennial, it stands as a testament to the power of community and the importance of preserving our shared history. Here’s to another 95 years of laughter, love, and connection at this beloved gathering place.

If you would like to attend the morning tea on Tuesday, October 15, from 10am to 12pm, please RSVP by Friday, October 11, to CoolangattaBranch@QCWA.org.au, or phone or text Jenny on: 0411 960 464.

Tweed residents are invited to celebrate 95 years of the QCWA Hall at Coolangatta

Tribute and appeal for help

By Jonathon Howard

MURWILLUMBAH MEALS on Wheels

is mourning the loss of a beloved local figure, Alice Thompson, whose contributions to the organisation and the community has left an indelible mark.

Alice’s journey with Meals on Wheels began in the late 1960s, shortly after the service was established in 1968 by the Tweed Christian Men’s Club.

Fellow Meals on Wheels members have this week helped to compile a beautiful tribute to Alice, who served diligently until her passing this year.

Alice, along with her parents Dick and Ivy Rice, and her husband Arthur, have played a pivotal role in identifying the need for meal services for the elderly in Murwillumbah.

“Recognising that many seniors were living on little more than “tea and toast,” they rallied together with community members to provide nourishing meals,” Meals on Wheels’ Wayne Taggart said.

“In February 1969, a partnership was forged with the Murwillumbah Hospital, which began preparing hot meals for delivery.

“As the founding members aged, Alice took on greater responsibilities and in 1993, she was elected secretary of the newly-formed committee, with Arthur serving as president.

“This new chapter saw the service operating from the hospital’s ground floor, where it continued to flourish under Alice’s guidance.”

For more than 50 years, Alice brought joy to Meals on Wheels’ clients during the holiday season by personally assembling Christmas hampers in her lounge room.

“These hampers, filled with festive treats, were especially meaningful for recipients who often faced loneliness during the holidays,” Mr Taggart said.

Alice also organised thank you morning teas for volunteers, which became renowned community events held at the CWA meeting rooms in Murwillumbah, celebrating the dedication of those who served.

“In 2011, when Murwillumbah Meals on Wheels relocated to its current premises on Golden Links Drive due to changes in government policy, Alice was instrumental in managing the logistics and communications involved in the move,” Mr Taggart said.

“Her efforts were recognised in 2007 when she received the NSW Seniors Week Achievement Award at Sydney Town Hall, highlighting her outstanding service to the community.

“The subsequent years saw significant milestones for Meals on Wheels, including the 40th and 50th anniversaries of the service, where Alice and Arthur were honoured as official patrons.

“Even in the face of illness, Alice remained a steadfast inspiration, contributing tirelessly to the service.”

Tweed locals will remember her renowned handcrafted coat hangers, which she gifted to clients, family, and charitable groups, a gesture that will be fondly remembered.

“The community, her family, and all who knew her can take pride in Alice’s lifetime of service,” he said.

As the organisation adjusts to the loss of Alice, along with the recent retirement of Pauline Dow, who relocated to Brisbane, Murwillumbah Meals on Wheels is

Alice Thompson passed away in August and leaves an incredible

seeking new committee members to ensure the continued delivery of vital services to the elderly in the area.

Interested individuals are encouraged to contact Coordinator Lyn Hartley via: (02) 6672 8866 to learn more about how they can contribute to this important cause.

Meals on Wheels is hosting a special AGM meeting from 3pm on Monday, October 14, at its office on Golden Links Drive in west Murwillumbah.

“All welcome! Would you like to help delivering meals, social support or as a committee member?” Wayne said.

“Please get in touch and follow in the footsteps of Alice and others to make a real difference in people’s lives”

Alice Thompson will be greatly missed, but her legacy of kindness and commitment to community service will endure.

Nurture our democracy

MEMBER FOR Lismore, Janelle Saffin is inviting local teachers and academics with a passion for our democracy to apply for a seat on the NSW Parliament’s first Education Advisory Group.

“The Education Advisory Group will provide feedback and guidance to the Parliament of NSW on its civics and citizenship education programs and resources,” Ms Saffin said.

“This is an opportunity for local teachers and academics to shape the civics education programs delivered by the Parliament and make sure they are of the highest standards and relevant to today’s classrooms.

“The selected members will have the opportunity to contribute their insights to make sure the Parliament’s civics programs are of the highest quality and relevant to today’s classrooms.

“Parliament’s Education and Engagement team is particularly encouraging applications from:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educators.

• Educators from regional, rural and remote areas.

• Primary school teachers.

• Those with experience teaching students with a language background other than English.

“The advisory group will convene once a term, with meetings held virtually during school term and in person at NSW Parliament House during school holidays.

“Being an Advisory Group member is not a paid role, however sitting fees are offered for each meeting attended and travel allowances will be available for regional members attending in-person meetings.”

For more information and to apply, please visit the I Work for NSW website. Applications close at 11.59pm, Sunday, October 27.

mark on the Murwillumbah Meals on Wheels legacy

Slumbering (6) 59 Guests (8) 60 Of atoms (6) 64 Presentations (6)

Weakens (4)

Sleep (4)

Japanese noodles (5) 69 Hammer (6) 72 Internet joke (4) 73 The Good Book (5) 74 Regretted (4) 75 Brush hair (4)

Temperate (4)

Style of handwriting (7) 79 Preserved with sugar syrup (7)

Distract from main subject (9)

2 Acceptance as one’s own (8)

Wealthy (8)

Climbing shrub (3)

Persistently attempt to sell (4)

Long, narrow pasta (6)

Business magnate (6)

Expression of regret (7)

Lottery (10)

Intensity (8)

16 Mythical monster (6)

(5)

Algerian music (3)

Star explosion (9)

Dance bar (9)

Not dead (5)

Earth in Latin (5)

Movable stems ending in eyes (9)

Type of pumpkin (9) 37 Discharge (4)

38 Always (4) 41 Wicked (4)

42 Hurry (4)

43 Deputised group (5)

44 Located (5) 50 Bystander who can give a first-hand account (10)

53 Bottom, foundation (5)

54 Theoretical (8)

FEATURED BUSINESS

DEREK

AFTER A long and distinguished career in steel fabrication for some of the biggest projects in Australia, Derek Cowen has moved back to the Tweed Shire to enjoy a slower paced lifestyle. Fortunately for Tweed residents, Derek has some amazing skills and is now providing domestic house renovation services and onsite structural fabrication services. With over 36 years’ experience across a wide range of fields, Derek offers free quotes is fully insured and a certified tradesman.

“I moved to the Tweed in 1980 from Victoria with my family. In my early years I was a keen orchid grower and joined the Tweed District Orchid Society in 1986 when Tweed City first opened,” he said.

“I also was a member of Tweed

/ Coolangatta Air Sea Rescue VN2RL back then after my family purchased one of these retired rescue craft Mercrusier One.

“I also joined the Tweed SES.

I was the youngest member of Tweed/ Coolangatta ASR at 14 when I joined.

“I stayed in the Tweed to my late teens and did my first trade as a boilermaker, then my second trade as a Australian standard 1796 coded welder.”

Derek’s company provided on site fabrication welding services and during the late 1990s and early 2000s he provided services to install structural steel beams into houses for open plan living.

“In time I closed my business and in 2006 entered the energy sector of mining, oil and gas as a tradesman then to be a site

TRADES AND SERVICES

supervisor, work on some Australia’s biggest projects like Gorgon gas plant WA, Mt Isa mining, Curtis Island APLNG,” he said.

“After leaving the energy sector I embarked on getting my trade in carpentry as I wanted to provide affordable modular houses for everyday Australians.

“We are still working on the prototypes currently.”

Derek said he’s made the change back to the Northern Rivers for the quieter paced lifestyle.

With outstanding reputation in steel fabrication and a passion for the Tweed, Derek is ready to help with your job big or small. Email: 1971moggzz@ gmail.com

PRIVATE SALE: Waterfront, Flood Free, Tweed Broadwater Village. Fully renovated 2 bedroom house. $572,000. Phone 0403 203 685

For Sale

FOR SALE: Lots of Farm related equipment. Tractor, chainsaws, pruners, blowers, pipe fittings, spray equip, etc. At a good price, definitely worth a look for the new farmer. Call ex-farmer Greg 0409 661 902

Lost

EXPERIENCED DENTAL ASSISTANTS

Please contact Ann 0407 713 878 NEWSPAPER DELIVERY: Driver wanted. Tweed Valley Weekly is seeking a new delivery driver for the Tweed Coast. Great rates. Must be enthusiastic, courteous and reliable. Early start every Thursday. Insurance provided for the first year. Please phone: 0447 300 258.

POSITION VACANT Juniors 15-18yo needed for fun warehouse job in Murwillumbah. 5am-8am and 3.30pm-6.30pm shifts. Email jason@maskco.com with your phone number.

Companion/Carer for elderly lady. Police Check and references. Ph: 0417 024 142 for more details.

DINING TABLE 6-seater, no chairs, width 150 x 90 x 76. HAVANA light oak $150 purchased from fantastic furniture, Hall table, same colour 100 x 40x 80 $100, Cash or eft, Pottsville, can deliver if local Phone 0448 869 013 FOR SALE Berends mulcher, 2.4 meter cut. $5,000. Ph 041 194 498 FOR SALE

Trailer tank, 3000 litres, never had sprays in tank, 10 meter boom, Honda firefighting pump with 35 meter hose, not road registered, $15,000. Ph 0416 194 498

FURNITURE FOR SALE

MISSING CAT Since 21st of July from Nunderi 2484. Female cat called Pebbles, short haired, domestic tabby, white bib, 4x white feet. Microchipped and registered. If found, contact Pam or Greg 0475 566 927

Massage

Massage

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

Original Thai Massage Call Yah – 0477 594 800

Public Notice

Claiming the Date: Tuesday 10th December, 2024 Kingscliff Lions Club in conjunction with Tweed Shire Council will be conducting “Carols by the Sea” in Rowan Robinson

Kingscliff. Another Lion’s Community Event. Fit, Active Male, 72, Non-drinker, Homeowner at Chinderah. Seeks ongoing Female Companion over 55, if you would like to meet call John: 0434 712 735

Male 60-year-old looking for a companion, Female 50 years and up. Located in the Tweed Region. Phone 0435 939 839

Tweed Surgery

PUBLIC NOTICE

Public Notice

Dining table 6-seater, no chairs, width 150 x 90 x 76. HAVANA light oak $150 purchased from Fantastic Furniture, Hall table, same colour 100 x 40x 80 $100, Cash or EFT, Pottsville, can deliver if local. Phone 0448 869 013 FOR SALE

1995 International Acco, Tipper (rarely used) with removable sides and tailgates, twin underbody hoist, 7.2 meter deck, near new aluminum loading ramps, 6 spare tyres, includes straps and chains, very good condition, immediate sale required, $45,000. Ph 0416 194 498

Mahers Lane Developments Pty Ltd is preparing a Development application for a residential subdivision on existing zoned land between Mahers Lane and Henry Lawson Drive, Terranora.

The proposal involves the Torrens Title of zoned land to create a total of 218 residential lots over four stages. Subject to Council approval, a significant area of open space will be dedicated to Council (approx. 10 hectares) for public purposes. The proposal includes the construction of essential services, roads and stormwater drainage.

In the lead up to the lodgement of a Development Application for this proposal, and as part of the Community engagement activities and preparation of a Socio Economic Impact Assessment to accompany the application, we invite you to comment on the proposed development. If you would like additional information, or to comment on the proposal please email sgeorgeconsulting@gmail.com by 30 October 2024.

Social Group

Scrap Metal

To Let

Wanted

Wanted

Over 60s singles group with different activities and great sincere folks who have been participating for over 7 years. Ph: 0428 118 534

PICK ME UP SCRAP METAL We collect white goods, heavy gauge, steel light gauge, steel farm machinery, trucks, cars, all metals copper lead batteries. We pay for batteries. You call we collect! Contact Wayne Leveridge on (02) 5616 8017 or 0434 431 461. www. pickmeupscrap.com.au Lic. SM-0674

TO LET White Hall Lodge, Located in Coolangatta. Fully furnished single rooms only to rent with cooking facilities. Would suit retired aged pensioner. Close to Club, Shops, beach. No Lease or Bond required. From $275 per week. Ph: 0448 363 233 or 07 5599 1089

Wanted

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

Norma June Dwyer

neé Reed ‘June’

Late of Heritage Lodge, Murwillumbah. Passed away peacefully on Friday 4th October 2024. Aged 93 Years. Loved Wife of Kevin (dec’d).

Loving Mother of Brian and Kathie.

Cherished Grandmother of Megan, Joseph and Nicholas.

Loving Great-Grandmother of Isabelle, Amelia and Noah, Ruby and Jack. Loved Sister of Errol, Mervyn, Coraleen, Beryl and Brian (all dec’d).

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend June’s Requiem Mass to be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Tuesday 15th October 2024 at 10:00am (NSW Time).

After the service the cortege will leave for the Murwillumbah Lawn Cemetery.

In lieu of Flowers, donations to the Cancer Council, NSW would be appreciated, with a donation box and envelopes available at the Service.

Ph: (02) 6672 2144 Murwillumbah

Vale Colin Brooks

Deepest sympathy is extended to the Brooks family on the sad loss of Colin, a respected member of the Tweed Shire community.

Mr Brooks was a staunch advocate for the farmers across the Tweed and was a contributor to the Rural Lands Strategy Reference Panel, as well as representing the previous State Member for Lismore Thomas George on Council’s Local Traffic Committee up until late 2023.

On behalf of the Councillors, General Manager and staff of Tweed Shire Council.

Patricia Anne Tong

Late of Murwillumbah. Passed away peacefully on Sunday 15th September 2024. Aged 92 Years.

Dearly loved Wife of Keith Tong (dec’d).

Loved Mother and Mother-in-law of Leanne & Greg and Debbie & Phil. Loving Sister of Narelle Lun.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Patricia’s Celebration of Life to be held on Saturday 19th October 2024 at 11:00am at the Murwillumbah Services Club. A Private Cremation for Patricia has been held.

BUYING & SELLING Coins, banknotes, badges, old sporting items Australiana, militaria etc. Phone Peter 0407 783 910 allcoins.com.au

PREVIOUS CALLERS, RING BACK!

WANTED Old VHS/DVD player in working order, PLUS Old Panasonic Camcorder Video camera. Phone 0439 293 384

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

Elaine Margaret McLEOD

Passed away peacefully on 1st October 2024 at Tweed Valley Hospital, Late of Pottsville. Aged 91 years.

Dearly loved wife of Mervyn (deceased), much loved mum and mother-inlaw of Wayne & Marie, Lorraine (deceased), Michael and Peter, loving nan to her 16 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and many great great grandchildren. Loved and remembered by all her family and friends

Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral service for Elaine to be held at Melaleuca Station Memorial Gardens 9394 Tweed Valley Way, Chinderah on Friday 11th October 2024 at 11.30am (NSW time) 10.30am (Qld Time)

Tweed Heads Ph: (07) 5599 1500

William McKennariey

Deepest sympathy is extended to the McKennariey family on the sad loss of Bill, a respected member of the Tweed Shire Council Equal Access Advisory Committee from 1999 to 2004.

Mr McKennariey was an active advocate for people with disability, particularly drawing on his lived experience with vision impairment. He also contributed to the Tweed Disability Network, making submissions in support of projects and policies, including the Tweed Access and Inclusion Plan. His advice to the Local Traffic Committee over many years as president of Blind Citizens Australia was also greatly appreciated.

On behalf of the Councillors, General Manager and staff of Tweed Shire Council.

Pietro Dusina

29/12/1929 -9/8/2021

We are locally owned and operated 0416 389 587

WE BUY CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, 4X4s, UTES & MACHINERY. Good & Bad condition. Paying more than trade in prices. Call now to discuss. 0403 118 534

DEPT. HOUSING SWAP 2BR townhouse, Castle Hill, Sydney. Prime location. Want 2BR property in Tweed Heads & surrounding. Serious enquiries only. Email: jcat999@protonmail.com Phone: 0404 150 756

GARLIC PLANTING HELPERS WANTED

$30/hr Casual Work Available, 10 mins from Murwillumbah. Contact Anna for a Trial Interview. Phone: 0420 249 925

NISBET Virgil Thunderbird 23/09/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

PRATT Lawrence Frederick 01/10/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

de GLORION Lynnelle Wynne 03/10/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

TURNER Cynthia Rose 03/10/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

LYONS John 04/10/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

TURGEON Sybil Eileen Dawn 04/10/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

HUGHES Robina 05/10/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

BOTTOMLEY Elizabeth 07/10/2024

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

CASTLES Tony 26/9/2024

Heritage Brothers (07) 5599 15 00

PETTIGREW Michael David 27/9/2024

Heritage Brothers (07) 5599 15 00

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

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

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

We offer holistic and unique funerals that empower you to have a deeply meaningful and inclusive experience Direction cremations $2560 including transfers and all legal paper work Full Service Cremations starting at $6360. www.tiarefunerals.com

McLEOD Elaine Margaret 1/10/2024

Heritage Brothers (07) 5599 15 00

SCHLAM Graeme Lee

Funeral Notice

Real Estate

FROM COAST TO COUNTRY

Bargains still out there in Murwillumbah

By Jo Kennett

IT SEEMS like the once very reasonably-priced Murwillumbah property market has gone berserk in recent months, with house prices rising so much of late it’s enough to make your head spin.

Apparently it’s not that bad, though lord knows it’s taken long enough for people to figure out the town is not just a bustling regional centre, it’s one of the prettiest places in Australia.

As the floods showed, it’s also a place where people come together to help one another in times of need, which is just what you want in a home town when times get tough.

It’s got one of the most beautiful art galleries in the country, is surrounded by national parks and farmland, all watched over by Wollumbin/ Mt Warning, the extinct volcano responsible

for the lovely soil that makes the Tweed Shire so lush and beautiful.

It seems like everywhere you go in the shire the mountain rises up in the background, a stunning natural beauty which those fortunate enough to live in God’s own country.

Nowhere is Wollumbin’s presence felt more than in Murwillumbah.

Often shrouded in clouds, it’s a sentinel watching over the river town and probably knows exactly what sort of mischief you residents have been getting up to, so behave yourselves.

Just saying.

A friend’s son and his partner were looking for their first home and had decided Murwillumbah was the place for them, at least the only place they could afford the sort of house they wanted in the shire they call home. They both had great jobs, a dog (so needed a house)

Open Homes

All times are DST unless specified.

Saturday, October 12

JET Real Estate

• 23 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah 9.3010am

• 189 Byangum Road, Murwillumbah 9.30-10am

• 57 Byangum Road, Murwillumbah 10.30-11am

• 1 William Street, Murwillumbah 11.30-12pm

• 81 Overall Drive, Pottsville 1-1.30pm

Schmith Estate Agents

• 321-323/99 Griffith Street, Coolangatta ‘Calypso Resort’, 11.30-12pm Qld time

worked super hard and there were plenty of homes in their budget when they first started looking.

They watched the market with eagle eyes, visiting several properties but nothing quite suited.

Suddenly prices skyrocketed — and many people searching for their first home would know that sinking feeling of watching all those options disappear — as many of those places hit the million-dollar mark.

Should they have jumped right in? Who’s to say. Maybe the perfect home is waiting for them, but Murwillumbah is still one of the best-priced places in the loveliest shire in the country.

Seriously, it is!

Around 2019 the median house price in Murwillumbah was $500,000 which jumped to $830,000 by early 2022. According to realestate.com, median house prices over the last year were $832,500 which

was up 8.8 per cent on the previous 12 months. So while it’s still going up there are still cheaper homes out there.

Units went absolutely through the roof with one of the highest price growth rates in the shire from $133,000 pre-pandemic to $625,000 earlier this year. They have now dropped 10.4 per cent over the past 12 months to $515,000 which

DJ Stringer Property Services

• 1/27 Albatross Cct, Tweed Heads West 10-10:30am

• 1/134 Kennedy Dr, Tweed Heads West 10-10:30am

• 3D/3-9 Eden St, Tweed Heads 10-10:30am

• 10 Ballymore Ct, Banora Point 11-11:30am

• 1066/20-22 Stuart St, Tweed Heads 11-11:30am

• 1/6-8 Endeavour Pde, Tweed Heads 11-11:30am

• 13/27 Philip St, Currumbin 11:15-12:00pm Qld Time

• 8/10 Tweed St, Coolangatta 12-12:30pm Qld Time

• 30 Pacific Dr, Banora Point 12-12:30pm McGrath

• 2114/9 Enid Street, Tweed Heads 10.30-11am

• 2 Sunnycrest Terranora 12.30-1pm

• 38 Ocean Drive Chinderah 11-11.30am

Tate Brownlee Real Estate

• 13 Botanical Circuit, Banora Point 9-9.30am

• 2/30 Seaview St, Kingscliff 9-9.30am

is great news for those who cannot quite afford a house but are desperate for a home.

Last month Murwillumbah had 19 properties available for rent and 55 properties for sale.

If you are looking for an investment property, houses in Murwillumbah rent out for $650 per week with an annual rental yield of 4.1 per cent and units rent for $420 per week

with a rental yield of 4 per cent. It’s a 23 minute drive to Kingscliff beaches and not much further to the Goldy, and it’s got the wonderful rail trail to explore on the weekend.

If you’re looking for a home of your own, it’s pretty hard to beat Murbah, once a proud country town full of westies like myself, that’s suddenly become the place to be.

• 55 Mount Ernest Crescent, Murwillumbah 9-9.30am

• 5 Turquoise, Murwillumbah 9.45-10.15am

• 298 Adina Avenue, Bilinga 10-10.30am

• 1/20 Cashel Crescent, Banora Point 10-10.30am

• 6/32-34 Martinelli Avenue, Banora Point 10-10.30am

• 50 Martinelli Avenue, Banora Point 10.45-11.15am

• 1/14 Lochlomond Drive, Banora Point 11-11.30am

• 14 Australia Drive, Terranora 11-11.30am

• 38 Macadamia Drive, Pottsville 11-11.30am

• 2/9 Avondale Drive, Banora Point 11.30-12pm

• 8 Wren Court, Tweed Heads South 12-12.30pm

• 17 Shamara Road, Terranora 12-12.30pm

• 2 Gladioli Ave, Terranora 12.30-1pm

• 81A Old Ferry Road, Banora Point 1-1.30pm

• 8 Norths Lane, Nunderi 1.15-1.45pm

• 2 Cambridge Court, Kingscliff 2-2.30pm

• 2 Sequoia Court, Banora Point 2.15-2.45pm

• 28 Dundee Drive, Banora Point 2:15-2.45pm

• 25/1a Pioneer Parade, Banora Point 3-3.30pm

57 Byangum Road, Murwillumbah, is for sale with Elizabeth Hickey at Jet Real Estate.

Mr Property Services

Tweed Broadwater Village

Noble Lakeside - Kingscliff

Colonial Tweed - Tweed Heads South

Palms Village - Tweed Heads South

Chinderah Lake - Chinderah

Tweed Shores - Chinderah

Tweed Billabong - Tweed Heads South

Ingenia Lifestyle - Kingscliff

Martel Place, Tweed Heads Renovated coastal haven

Mainbrace, Tweed Heads

facing waterfront property

Kimberley Circuit, Banora Point Convenient single-level living

Riveroak Dr, Murwillumbah

Myrtle St, Murwillumbah

Rowlands Ck, Murwillumbah

Braemar Place, Urliup 3 Church Lane, Murwillumbah

Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah

Hartigan Street, Murwillumbah

Place, Murwillumbah

Charles Street, Murwillumbah

81 Dixons Road, Burringbar 61 Mcleod Street, Condong