The Byron Shire Echo – Issue 37.43 – April 5, 2023

School’s library receives ethics donation

Photo & story Eve Jeffery

Mullumbimby Public School

is the recipient of a competition prize from a volunteer teacher in Sydney.

The winner was the regional manager of ethics programs in Ryde, Swee Goh, and she had the chance to send her cash winnings to any school she chose. She sent most of it 750kms north.

Primary Ethics, who granted the award, was established to give schoolchildren the space to explore ethical dilemmas.

The independent notfor-profit organisation is the sole approved provider of ethics classes to NSW public schools.

The inaugural Kinghorn Award for Primary Ethics Volunteers was created to honour an ethics volunteer, who is an inspirational role model for other volunteers – and for their school and community.

Swee Goh was awarded $4,000 as part of the prize – Ms Goh decided to give $1,000 to a school in her Ryde area and $3,000 to Mullumbimby Public School to help rebuild their library

after the 2022 flood damage.

At last Thursday’s school assembly, Primary Ethics representatives, Elizabeth Allen and Ian Barker, presented the prize and the book, Unstoppable Us, Volume 1: How Humans Took Over the World, on behalf of Swee Goh.

Ms Goh told The Echo that she wanted the larger part of the prize money to go to a school that was damaged by natural disaster in 2022, a year of terrible floods.

Closed for months

‘Mullumbimby Public School was hit badly and

closed for several months, while they waited for floodwaters to recede and basic repairs to be made’.

‘I hope this money will help contribute to the school regaining its strength and to the library as a place of comfort and nourishment for the children.’

Mullumbimby Public School students, Winnie, Milo and Sylvie, with teacher librarian, Sue Austin, principal David Lees, Engagement Manager for Primary Ethics, Elizabeth Allen, Primary Ethics teacher, Sarah Neeves and Ian Barker from CST Primary Ethics.

Paul Bibby

Two years ago, in their debut radio interview on BayFM, the teenage members of local band, Loose Content, talked about their dream of playing big festivals like Bluesfest and Splendour in the Grass.

This Saturday that dream will become reality, when the trio takes to the Juke Joint stage at Bluesfest.

‘It’s definitely a big milestone,’ the band’s drummer, Aquila Porter says.

‘Just growing up around the festival, and seeing all our idols playing there over the years. To be part of that now is amazing.’

‘I don’t think we’ve really spoken about it, but I guess this could be something really big for us.’

The three-piece, consisting of MiLLa (bass and vocals), Sam Sanders (guitar) and Aquila (drums), formed

in early 2018 while they were students at the Cape Byron Steiner school.

After winning the Mullum Music Festival Youth Mentorship in 2018, the group have gone on to play at some of Australia’s most-loved festivals. But Bluesfest is set to be their biggest gig yet.

‘It actually happened through the busking competition,’ MiLLa says.

‘We entered last year in the grommet section and won, and they gave us a slot on a small stage, and this year we’re on one of the main stages’.

The group will hit the stage at midday on Saturday at the Juke Joint, the first show on that day.

When they’re not preparing for their spot, they’ll be looking forward to seeing

some of their music heroes play on the other stages.

MiLLa says that Gang of Youths will definitely be on that list.

‘Gang of Youths is a band that’s had a lot of influence on our music,’ she says.

‘Starting a song in an intimate way and coming to a massive chorus is something that has definitely influenced us.’

These and other influences will definitely be evident when Loose Content’s new EP comes out in the coming months.

In the studio

The band have been in the studio for two weeks working on the project with acclaimed producer, Nick DiDia, and are excited about the results.

‘It’s definitely an evolution of our sound,’ MiLLa says.

‘We’re looking forward to that after Bluesfest.’

Vale avid surfer, Jason Smith, at 75

Eve Jeffery

The Byron surfing community awoke to sad news on Saturday morning that one of their number had passed away unexpectedly during the night.

Jason Smith was an avid surfer who tried to hit the waves every day. In recent times Jason had two big setbacks – one was a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and the other was that his home at Feros in Byron Bay was going to close and he would need to move.

Friend Paul Jameson said that at 75 years of age, Jason was still a mad keen surfer.

‘He only cared about three things: surf, surf, and surf! Until very recently he was surfing every day. He more or less stopped that when he got word that he had to move out of Feros.’

Jameson says that news of the closure of Feros was a blow for Jason and his health

began to visibly decline. ‘I don’t dispute what Feros are setting out to try and achieve with closing down, but I think the way they did it is awful.’

Jameson says that Jason felt he needed to find a place to live as soon as possible as he believed that with so many people leaving Feros he might not get a place, particularly a place close to Byron. Jameson says different friends had taken him to different facilities in Bangalow, Kingscliff, and Alstonville and he had himself taken Jason to see Byron Aged Care, to where Jason decided he would move.

‘He moved into Byron Aged Care last Thursday. On Friday morning, we went up to Brisbane to see the surgical team for his PD treatment.

‘On the way home from Brisbane, he was in quite a good mood. He was laughing and joking. He was fine. I dropped him back at Byron

Aged Care and I must say the staff were lovely.’

Jameson says he visited Jason later in the evening as he was having a bit of a panic attack. ‘The RN, from Byron Aged Care came and helped. He wasn’t feeling good. The RN talked him through some breathing exercises and made sure his medication was all up to date and all that sort of stuff. He was out of bed and walking around, and he seemed fine.’

Jameson says he got a call less than 12 hours later saying Jason had passed away. ‘It’s devastating. It’s such a shock. I thought he had another 15 years of good life left.’

Active Feros member

A Feros care spokesperson said that the entire Feros community was deeply saddened to hear of Jason’s passing. ‘He was a much-loved, active member of the community. We will all miss him’.

Greens MP holds large margin

As of Tuesday, the NSW Electoral Commission had counted 43,799 votes for the Legislative Assembly (lower house) seat of Ballina, comprising Byron and Ballina shires.

First preference votes for each candidate saw Greens MP, Tamara Smith, re-elected with 15,245 votes (34.81 per cent), followed by Nationals candidate, Joshua Booyens,

with 13,545 votes (30.93 per cent).

Labor’s Andrew Broadley was next, attracting 10,003 votes (22.84 per cent).

Margin 13.98 per cent

Independent candidate, Kevin Loughrey, attracted 3,407 votes (7.78 per cent), followed by Sustainable Australia Party candidate Peter Jenkins with 1,599

votes (3.65 per cent).

After the distribution of preferences, the twocandidate-preferred (TCP) count saw the Greens attract 21,226 votes (56.99 per cent), to the Nationals 16,017 votes (43.01 per cent).

Counting for the Legislative Council (upper house), continues. Stats sourced from https://vtr.elections.nsw.gov. au/SG2301/LA/ballina/fp.

Meanwhile, Friends and Families of Feros Residents (FFFR) have enlisted the help of a Sydney law firm, and local solicitor, Mark Swivel of Barefoot Law, in an effort to stop Feros closing its doors to the place that many people still call home.

On Monday, an Urgent Notice of Complaint about Feros Byron Bay Village was lodged with Australian Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner, Janet Anderson. Barefoot Law say, ‘We expect to lodge a full outline and particulars of the complaint within seven days.’

WEDNESDAY, 12 APRIL – 9AM TO 5PM

THURSDAY, 13 APRIL – 9AM TO 5PM

FRIDAY, 14 APRIL – 9AM TO 4PM

MONDAY, 17 APRIL – 9AM TO 5PM

TUESDAY, 18 APRIL – 9AM TO 5PM 5–9 Lucky Lane, Billinudgel

/ BYRON BAY

HOLY THURSDAY 7pm St Kevin’s Catholic Church Deacon Street, Bangalow

GOOD FRIDAY 3pm St Finbarr’s Catholic Chruch Tennyson Street, Byron Bay

HOLY SATURDAY 6.30pm St Finbarr’s Catholic Chruch Tennyson Street, Byron Bay

EASTER SUNDAY 7.30am St Finbarr’s Catholic Chruch Tennyson Street, Byron Bay

7.30am St Kevin’s Catholic Church Deacon Street, Bangalow

Children’s and General Dentist, Dr Damaris Fernandez

Dr Fernandez graduated in 2006 with a degree in Dentistry, and later studied a master’s degree in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics.

and orthodontics, and has been a teacher of paediatric teenagers.

Dr Fernandez has permanently settled in the Bangalow area, and Dr Cluer and Dr Bayliss welcome her to the team.

Aquila, MiLLa and Sam, from local band Loose Content, who are making their main stage debut at Bluesfest this weekend. Photo supplied

On Wednesday April 12, the Mullumbimby Neighbourhood Centre will be hosting a memorial lunch/barbecue for their dear friend, Woodstock, who died in Byron Hospital on Tuesday, March 7.

Co-organiser, Bronwyn Sindel told The Echo, ‘It was Woodstock’s wish that we celebrate his life and passing with a party, so as well as the usual barbecue, the boys in the band will be playing his favourite music’.

‘If you want to be part of Woody’s last party at the Neighbourhood Centre, then come along for a 12.30pm start. At around 3pm, the party will move to Durrumbul Hall for more live music, food and a fire’.

She adds, ‘If you would like to, offer up a flower or a stone for the remembrance space around Woody’s photo. And if you have some firewood to keep the fire going, that would be greatly appreciated’.

Aslan Shand

The Mullumbimby community is invited to a community picnic on Saturday May 6, between 4 and 8pm.

The event will also focus on recording stories, many of which are ongoing, from the 2022 floods.

The Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce, supported by Creative Mullumbimby and the Brunswick Valley Historical Society, will be running the free event to remember the floods, tell stories, listen to music, participate in art making, and enjoy time and food together as a community.

Blue Box project

Local NSW MP, Tamara Smith (Greens), says she is urging the newly elected NSW Premier, Chris Minns (Labor) to postpone audits being carried out on flood-affected constituents who received rental and repair assistance. Smith says, ‘This is devastating for people who have not yet fully recovered from the trauma of the 2022 floods.

‘Many flood victims’ lives

are still in a state of disorder; they have not been able to keep good records, and lack the facilities to do so’.

Smith says she joins Janelle Saffin, Labor MP for Lismore, in asking the premier to ‘postpone this audit until all members of the community have been restored to some degree of security – or that it be reconsidered altogether’.

A major focus of the event will be the Blue Box project, which will collect people’s flood stories and bring them together as a book to be held at the Mullumbimby Museum.

‘It is about keeping it local; it is about local stories, local memories and building connection within our

Hans Lovejoy

With ATO whistleblower, Richard Boyle, facing jail for accusing his former employer of aggressively pursuing debts from taxpayers, The Echo asked local federal MP, Justine Elliot (Labor), if she is supportive of his actions, and ‘Are there any plans by Labor to strengthen whistleblower laws, specially Section 10 of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2013 (PID) regarding criminal liability?’

Boyle sought protection from prosecution under the act, yet last week, a judge found his actions were not immune from prosecution under Section 10 of the PID.

Mrs Elliot replied, ‘The Albanese government is committed to delivering strong, effective, and accessible protections for whistleblowers’.

‘In particular, the government has committed to a second stage of reform of public sector whistleblowing

community,’ said Blue Box project organiser, Jenelle Stanford.

‘Those who have been affected by the flood, or who have flood stories, are invited to share their stories through written word, audio files or photographic records.’

Blue Boxes will be distributed throughout shops in Mullumbimby for people to post their flood stories in.

Please leave your stories in these boxes, or connect

through the link for audio or digital downloads. There will be a QR code available in future editions of The Echo

You can also email your stories to: stationery.mullumnews@gmail.com.

The community picnic will be held on Burringbar Street, between Dalley and Stuart Streets, Mullumbimby, which will be closed to traffic for the afternoon.

The picnic space will be in the centre of the street, which will be set aside for locals to bring their own picnic, or purchase food from local vendors.

Bring a picnic table and chairs and reconnect, tell stories or just enjoy the entertainment.

Interactive art and live music will feature throughout the afternoon, while there will be a conversation circle and surprise pop-ups to enjoy.

laws, which will include public consultation on redrafting the Public Interest Disclosure Act to address the underlying complexity of the scheme, and provide effective and accessible protections to public sector whistleblowers; and a discussion paper on the need for additional supports for public sector whistleblowers, such as a Whistleblower Protection Authority or Commissioner.

‘This second stage of reforms will commence, following the passage of the priority amendments contained in the Public Interest Disclosure Bill.

‘In terms of Richard Boyle, as this matter is still before the courts, and Mr Boyle has announced he will be appealing, it is not appropriate to comment on this case’.

Meanwhile, Elliot has joined the Bring Julian Assange Home parliamentary group, as promised during the election campaign in 2022.

The Echo asked, ‘What are the main obstacles in securing Assange’s release?’

Mrs Elliot replied, ‘The Australian government has been clear in our view that Julian Assange’s case has dragged on for too long and that it should be brought to a close. We will continue to express this view to the governments of the United Kingdom and United States’.

‘Since 2019, the Australian government has written to Julian Assange on 45 occasions to offer consular assistance. Via his representatives, Julian has recently requested a visit from the Australian government, and arrangements are being made for the High Commission to visit.

‘The meeting will be an opportunity to receive any information Julian would like to convey, consistent with the entitlement of all Australians

to consular assistance. The Australian government is unable to intervene in another country’s legal or court processes, just as they are unable to intervene in Australia’s. While we are doing what we can between the Australian government and other governments, there are limits until Julian Assange has concluded the legal processes.

‘As we do for other Australians facing legal proceedings overseas, the Australian government is following Julian Assange’s case closely and offering consular assistance to him’.

Yet Greens Senator, David Shoebridge, accused the Albanese government on March 31 of not engaging with the US President on the matter when meetings were held between the two leaders over AUKUS.

‘Not one meeting, phone call or letter sent,’ he tweeted, after highlighting video footage of Senator Penny Wong avoiding his question.

Mullum Chamber president, Paul Prior, with the Blue Box project Photo Jeff Dawson

Woodstock, outside the Mullum IGA. Photo supplied

Mullum’s future water supply still uncertain

Paul Bibby

What is the best way to secure a long-term, reliable water supply for Mullumbimby?

This question has been batted around for years within Byron Council, but took on extra significance and urgency after the 2019–20 drought and bushfires, when the water supply for the town reached critically low levels.

Yet, more than three years on from the fires, the right solution is still the subject of debate within Council, and no action has been taken.

One point that most can agree upon is that Mullumbimby’s current water source, the ageing Lavertys Gap weir in Wilsons Creek, is not a viable long-term option in its current state.

Council reports show that demand for water in Mullumbimby is basically equal to the amount that the weir can sustainably supply in normal rainfall conditions.

With the town’s population forecast to grow significantly over the next decade, and climate change putting paid to any reliance on consistent rainfall, there is a very

real risk the town could run out of water if an alternative source is not found.

It is predicted that, if Mullum continues to rely on Lavertys Gap without modifications, demand would exceed supply by 37 megalitres per year by 2050.

Council staff say that Lavertys Gap weir is having a significant negative impact on the surrounding environment, and that the water treatment plant it flows through is no longer up to the task of providing a quality water supply.

The question of what to do about this remains a highly-vexed one.

Council staff argue that Mullumbimby should follow

the rest of Byron Shire, and move onto the supply from Rous Water, the organisation responsible for water management across the region.

They point out that the infrastructure already exists to make this happen, in the form of an emergency line that the town made use of in 2019, and that this is the only viable way of guaranteeing a long-term water supply for the town.

But the members of Council’s Water and Sewer Advisory Committee disagree.

They do not believe that Rous Water can be relied upon to deliver an environmentally sustainable water supply into the future, pointing to the organisation’s periodic support for

a dam at Dunoon which, if constructed, would flood huge areas of farmland and native habitat.

‘Rous Water is an entity unto themselves, and I don’t feel that they have environmental considerations high on their agenda,’ said Greens Councillor, Duncan Dey, who is a member of the committee.

Cr Dey and his fellow committee members argue that modifications can be made to Lavertys Gap weir to help it form part of a sustainable supply. This includes building a large water storage tank to back up the weir.

A broader supply solution also includes other water sources, such as the groundwater system at Tyagarah, and improved rooftop water harvesting.

‘Within that committee, there’s real expertise, and we all agree that diversity of water sources is a really healthy model,’ Cr Dey said.

‘Having a singularity of sources is not a good plan.’

At this stage, the two sides appear to be at an impasse.

A special workshop is planned before it goes to Council in late April or May.

Lavertys Gap Weir. Photo NSW Office of Environment & Heritage

Mullum2Bruns Paddle returns

The Mullum2Bruns Paddle returns on May 21, 2023, after being cancelled last year owing to flooding, and river health concerns.

Organisers say the event, which has become a muchloved tradition, will begin at Heritage Park in Mullumbimby from 7.30am and finish in Brunswick Heads.

‘There will be a slight change in the finish line location this year, owing to erosion at the Scout Hall’, Bruns Visitor Centre co-ordinator, Cherie Heale, told The Echo

‘The finishing point will be at the road bridge, and paddlers will exit onto Banner Park. Craft minding is available, so you can enjoy the entertainment, community barbecues and kid’s activities in the park’.

Fond farewell for Byron Bay Mitre 10

‘Apart from the fun paddlers, the event includes Open Paddle Challenge, Double Paddle Challenge, SUP Challenge and Best Decorated Craft. Medals and amazing prizes are to be won’.

Pre-registration

A pre-registration event will be held at the Hotel Brunswick, who are sponsors, on Saturday May 20 in the afternoon. Heale says the paddle is a fundraising event for Marine Rescue, Brunswick Heads Surf Life Saving Club and the Brunswick Heads Visitor Centre. ‘The River Warriors team from Positive Change For Marine Life will also be running a paddle clean-up and litter survey’. For more info visit www. mullum2brunspaddle.com.au.

Byron Bay Mitre 10 has closed its doors, and the team held a farewell get together for staff and customers last Friday.

Owners, James and Lisa Mitchell, have operated the store since 2001. James told The Echo it has been in its current location since 1991.

The reason for closure?

‘Our lease renewal offer was only for a year, which didn’t provide enough certainty’, he told The Echo.

It leaves Byron Bay with three hardware outlets, all of which are in the Arts and Industry estate. They are Byron Bay Building Materials (locally owned), J.H. Williams & Sons, and Bunnings. James told The Echo they will be taking some time off before deciding their next venture.

Toxicity warnings over waste incinerator proposal

Paul Bibby

Will Byron Council add its voice to the growing chorus of opposition to the proposed waste-to-energy incinerator at Casino?

The controversial plan to build the facility in, or near the town, has been put forward for consideration by the state government, with some support from Richmond Valley Council, as a possible solution to the region’s waste management problems.

They argue that the incinerator, if managed properly, would prevent thousands of tonnes of waste from going into landfill, and instead efficiently convert it into energy.

But residents living in and around the town are deeply concerned about the health impacts from what they say will be toxic emissions produced by such an incinerator.

Speaking at a recent

meeting opposing the plan, local doctor, and former industrial chemist, Dr Jurriaan Beek, said the incinerator was ‘the biggest risk to the health of our community’.

‘Four tonnes of waste converts to 11 tonnes of gas, and one tonne of ash,’ Dr Beek said, as reported by IndyNR.com

He said the ash contained dioxins, which cause cancer.

‘It [the ash] travels on the wind,’ he said.

‘Onto farmland. Cows eat the grass, and we eat the meat, and drink the milk.’

Byron Shire Council is among 13 north coast councils who are part of a broader process exploring the establishment of regional waste facilities, with a focus on alternative waste treatment solutions.

The incinerator is one of the solutions being considered as part of this process.

In response to a series of questions asked by Greens Councillor, Duncan Dey, late last year, Council’s Director of Infrastructure Services, Phil Holloway, said Byron had not signed any service agreements or contracts in relation to any waste solution, including an incinerator.

‘While individual Councils have committed to being part of the market sounding and Expression of Interest (EOI) process, this does not commit to continuation in the project overall,’ Mr Holloway said in his written response to the questions.

Council staff said, ‘Council’s participation will be determined by the opportunities presented through this process and a rigorous assessment process, which includes consultation with councillors and alignment with Council strategies…’

This measured response is a long way from opposing the controversial incinerator plan. Committee

against

However, this month Council’s newly-formed Climate Change and Resource Advisory Recovery Committee will tackle the issue head on.

A motion is set to come before the committee that, if passed, would provide a clear statement of opposition to the incinerator project.

Also on the committee’s agenda will be receiving a report on the Shire’s ‘current waste strategies in relation to incineration as a Shire and within the group’.

The committee will also further ask for a status report on the proposed incinerator, including the positions of other councils within the region, and the state government, post-election.

From Friday’s Byron Bay Mitre 10 farewell party: Current owners, Lisa and James Mitchell, are pictured with previous owner and Lisa’s mother, Jannette Cavanaugh, with Barrie and Faye Cowland. The couple relocated the Basic Bits hardware store to the Jonson Street site, from the centre of town, in 1991. Photo Jeff ‘Bits And Bobs’ Dawson

Vale Brian Parkes, last Green Frog driver

Gary Chigwidden

Byron Bay lost one of its dwindling links to its industrial past – and a lovely bloke as well – with the death last week of Brian Parkes, the last driver of the little diesel engine known as the Green Frog.

Brought to Australia by the North Coast Steam Navigation Company to replace horses, the little engine, built in Bedford in England at a cost of 1,100 pounds, started its working life at Byron Bay in 1923 on the ‘old’ jetty at Main Beach, hauling cargo to and from the company’s ships.

When the ‘new’ jetty was built at Belongil Beach across the road from the then Anderson’s meatworks, the Green Frog continued its work there.

In 1954, whaling started at Byron Bay and Brian’s father, Len, took over as driver of the Green Frog from the first and long-serving driver, Arthur Ritchie. Part of his job was hauling whales to the processing plant at the meatworks.

As a young boy, Brian used to often ride with his father on the engine, and he recalls ‘driving’ it for the first time

when he was about nine.

He started driving it officially in 1968 when he got his certificate for hauling, among other things, refrigerated trucks, coal and cattle for the meatworks.

The Green Frog’s working life came to an end in 1983, when the meatworks, then owned by IXL-Elders, was closed.

By that stage, he was working in the boiler room at the meatworks, and was only driving the engine every

couple of weeks, bringing cattle to the works.

Both Brian and his father continued to maintain the Green Frog, until Len died in 1990, with Brian basically then becoming the sole carer.

For many years, the engine sat in a tin shed next to the rail line, near Kendall Street.

Brian rode his pushbike from his Tennyson Street home out to the shed at least twice a week, on average, he said, to make sure there

were no rats’ nests in the machinery.

His main concern was that the rats might rub off the sump oil he covered the engine with twice a year to prevent rust – the mortal enemy of any piece of machinery. That was a good enough reason, but you only had to talk to Brian to know that it was not the main one – he just loved being around the Green Frog.

A big chunk of his life had involved the little engine, and he loved the part it had played in the town’s history. There’s not too much – if anything –he didn’t know about it.

Speaking to him all those years ago, he was concerned about what would happen to the Green Frog once he went.

‘Ï would love to see something happen before I go,’ he told me at the time.

Thankfully, Brian did see that ‘something’ happen, with the little diesel engine getting a permanent home in a custom-made structure at the southern end of the railway station late last year.

It will forever be a reminder of the passion and devotion of one man to preserve such a vital link to Byron Bay’s industrial past.

Brian Parkes, pictured in late 2022, when the Green Frog engine became part of a permanent display at the Byron Bay Railway Station. Photo Jeff Dawson

News from across the North Coast online www.echo.net.au

Tyre wrecking tacks found on rail trail

Police from Tweed Byron Police District have commenced an investigation after hundreds of tacks, nails and screws were found on the Northern Rivers Rail Trail at Murwillumbah.

$15,000 fine and warnings over illegal logging in Kyogle Shire

Urbenville-based logging company, Rojech Pty Ltd, were fined $15,000 earlier this month over logging operations near the entrance to the Border Ranges National Park in Kyogle Shire. They were also issued an ‘Official Caution’ for breaches under the Local Land Services Act.

Is polluting a lake in a national park to support new housing okay?

From Byron Bay to Evans Head to Casino the question of how we deal with, what is politely termed ‘effluent’, and how that may or may not destroy our local environment is a real, and pressing question as the current infrastructure struggles to take the strain. If it can’t, it can lead to fish kills, bird deaths and the destruction of waterways so that people can no longer swim in and enjoy them.

Tweed residents outraged at destruction of koala habitat on Cobaki Creek

A ‘legacy’ floodplain development on the tidal estuary of Cobaki Creek, known to have recent koala sightings, was approved for a 37-lot subdivision in 1996 – that is, 27 years ago.

Ten days ago the new developer MAAS from Dubbo, who bought the Tweed Heads West property for more than $20m last year, commenced clearing at the site. Locals say that the access the developer has been using on Triga Street is not legal.

Everything old gets to be new again

It’s often easier to see the way forward by looking at the past and the Lismore Museum has been a valuable tool for doing just that, but like many locations in the town, the museum is yet to recover from last year’s flood.

Murwillumbah Fire Station needs more firefighters

There is probably not one adult who hasn’t been grateful for the job that firefighters have done in this country, particularly in the aftermath of the 2019–20 Australian bushfires.

www.echo.net.au

Local protester risks arrest to protect koala habitat

A former Greens candidate for Lismore is protesting to halt native forest logging in the Doubleduke State Forest, near Woodburn.

Twenty-three-year-old law student, Kashmir Miller, has suspended herself on a platform 25m high in a tree with rope attached to three NSW Forestry machines.

‘Native forest logging is accelerating the climate crisis,’ Ms Miller says.

‘Every tree cut down is a step further along in the extinction crisis. We need to preserve the amazing, unique biodiversity of Doubleduke for our own sake, as well as the wildlife.’

The 2,600 hectare forest is located 50km south of Lismore, and was closed by authorities in February as a response to increased protest activity in the area.

The forest was heavily affected by the 2019–20 Black Summer bushfires, and is a known habitat for several vulnerable and endangered

species, including koalas, four species of large forest owls, and the yellow-bellied glider.

Local ecologist, Anastasia Guise, says: ‘the 2019–20 bushfires had a catastrophic impact on threatened species already under enormous pressure from climate change and environmental land use changes on a landscape-scale.’

The Save the Banyabba Koala group have called for a stop to all logging in Doubleduke State Forest.

‘This forest is full of old, hollow-bearing trees which are essential habitat for these species, and one of the key features we know were lost right across the landscape during the fires,’ Ms Guise says.

Extinction is forever

Guise adds, ‘Extinction is forever. We need to take seriously the protection of species and habitats in the long term, and industrialised logging of native habitat is absolutely counter to that purpose.’

Three passionate Mullumbimby women have come together with a strategy that solves the challenging environmental problem of the invasive weed, cat’s claw, and will hold a workshop from April 14–16 on the upper Clarence catchment, near Drake.

According to the NSW Department of Industry, ‘Cat’s claw creeper is listed as a Key Threatening Process in NSW, because of its potential to impact on endangered and vulnerable plants, as well as

Lowland Subtropical Rainforest, which is an Endangered Ecological Community’.

Co-organiser, Angela Bambach, says she has teamed up with Zimmi Forest and Nadia de Pietromale de Souza to turn the problem into a resource.

Weaving weeds

She says, ‘The upside to this vine is that it’s fantastic to weave and create sculptural art’.

In order to share and

spread their vision, the women are offering the fully catered workshop.

‘Anyone, any age, can join in. It’s an immersive experience. Camping will be on a beautiful property by the river, caring for the river and creating’.

‘The camp is fully catered with organic food grown on the farm, and locally sourced’.

To get involved, email zimstar16@gmail.com or call Zimmi on 0439 853 240.

Upgrades for Angels Beach

A $200,000 funding pool is on offer, as part of the inGrained Foundation’s Northern Rivers Large Grants Program.

Organisers say that local organisations who are doing incredible work among their communities are encouraged to apply.

Now in its fifth year, the program is open to not-forprofits with deductible gift recipient (DGR) status, and grants will range between $5,000 and $30,000.

Jasmin Daly from the inGrained Foundation says, ‘With the aim of addressing a broad spectrum of challenges experienced within these communities, inGrained are seeking to support projects that fall into the following categories: conservation of natural resources and habitats; action on climate change; mental health and wellbeing; accommodation and homelessness; and inclusion

and diversity’.

‘In 2022, the foundation donated an unprecedented amount to the Northern Rivers community, with over $350,000 provided via last year’s grants program and local flood relief efforts.

‘Applicants who are notfor-profits with DGR status, are encouraged to read the guidelines and submit before Friday April 28, by visiting www.ingrainedfoundation. com.au’.

Access facilities to Angels Beach will be upgraded, after a recent motion by Independent Ballina Shire Councillor Stephen McCarthy was supported by fellow councillors.

Council staff said they could include estimated costs in the April 2023 Finance and Facilities Committee reports, but guessed the upgrade project would cost more than $100,000.

But support for the upgrades came only after time spent questioning how

infrastructure projects are prioritised, with staff answering it was ultimately up to the elected councillors.

Cr Phillip Meehan failed to gain enough support for an amendment to Cr McCarthy’s motion, that would have essentially seen business as usual for access to Angels Beach. Staff said it was Council’s role to decide whether the Angels Beach access upgrade was ‘a higher priority than all the other priorities’.

A curated collection of furniture, homewares, rugs and lighting, sourced both locally and globally. Encapsulating the freedom of spirit and the soul of the individual as represented through their home.

Photo from a December workshop. Photo Endre Kvia

threaten elderly resident after pesky questions

Hans

Lovejoy

An elderly Mullumbimby grandmother has been warned by Council staff that her regular questions around what flood mitigation works are planned for her street could result in ‘restrictions on your contact with our office’.

Like many other dwellings on the eastern side of Mullumbimby, the Ann Street home of Marie Oliver, 80, was severely flood-damaged in early 2022.

Oliver told The Echo she puts the number of damaged homes at around 100, and has been regularly asking Council – for a year – when drainage works along the length of Ann Street will commence.

Trunk Drain needed

She says a New City Trunk Drain, which existed previously from the CBD to the town’s outskirts heading east, would alleviate the potential for flooding.

In the 2022 floods, residents were inundated by floodwaters from Kings Creek, located to the east of the town.

Oliver told The Echo that unlike some other residents,

she was fortunate to have her son repair her flood-damaged home after the floods.

And despite street drains in the area being cleared last Monday by Council, Oliver maintains that the New City Trunk Drain is key to mitigating future floods.

In a March 28 letter, Council staff told Oliver of her continued requests for meetings and updates, ‘We consider this type of behaviour to be inappropriate, and request that it stop’.

Oliver was also told her ‘continual contact could be considered unreasonable persistence, as defined in

Council’s Managing Unreasonable Customer Conduct Policy’.

According to that document, ‘unreasonable persistence’ occurs where a ‘customer will not be satisfied with the action taken or the service provided, despite the service or action being properly implemented and exhausted in accordance with the relevant Council policy/policies’.

Yet according to the information provided to Oliver, the works she is requesting do not appear to have been ‘properly implemented and exhausted’.

In the letter from staff

member, Heather Sills, ‘existing matters’ are explained for Oliver, and that the drainage works are ‘somewhat complex with Marine and Fisheries permits possibly being required’.

An ‘indicative’ timeframe of October 2023–January 2024 is provided to Oliver, ‘based on available resourcing’.

to comment

The Echo asked Council staff, ‘Is there any reason why Marine and Fisheries permits are yet to be sought to undertake this drainage work?’

And, ‘Presumably, this means that this work is not a priority for Council? If not, why, given the floodwaters entered the homes of the residents from Kings Creek?’

Esmarelda Davis, Director Corporate Community Services, told The Echo, ‘Council does not generally comment on correspondence with individuals. In relation to your enquiry Council is corresponding directly with the individual’.

Passionate advocate for Brunswick Heads and active Chamber of Commerce member, Kim Rosen, was given a fond farewell recently by residents and business owners, as she refocuses on her life in Sydney.

Photo Jeff Dawson

Hippy docos screen to celebrate Aquarius Festival anniversary

The Brunswick Valley Historical Society is hosting a screening of Sharon Shostak’s Mullumbimby docos at the Drill Hall, Mullumbimby, on Saturday April 15 and Sunday April 16.

The society’s Susan Tsicalas told The Echo it’s an opportunity to discover, or recall, the cultures that developed from the influx of the hippies in the 1970s.

‘We will be screening the docos in reverse order, starting with Mullumbimby Magic: The Culture of the ’70s–’80s

Part 3, The Arts, on Saturday from 5pm, followed by Part 2 Activism and Politics at 7.15pm’.

‘On Sunday, we will screen Part 1: Health & Wellbeing at 5pm, and finish with Mullumbimby Madness, The Legacy of the Hippies, from 7.15pm.

‘The screenings are to celebrate the anniversaries; the Aquarius Festival’s 50th and Brunswick Valley Historical Society’s 40th’.

For more info, email admin@mullumbimbymuseum.org.au.

East Mullum was one of many Byron Shire residential areas that was severely affected by the 2022 floods. Photo by Marie Oliver, of her backyard, in March, 2022.

The Byron Shire Echo

Volume 37 #43 • April 5, 2023

Hands up who likes meetings?

There will always be some who like sitting through meetings.

I, for one, find them generally a waste of time because there’s always someone who makes them really boring (generally the one leading the meeting).

And what is generally agreed to, could have been done via a group email.

Brevity is the soul of a good meeting, I say!

Yet meetings that are led by Byron Shire Council’s voluntary advisory committees, guidance groups and panels, do matter, and are worth unpacking.

For example, our town planning is underpinned by their recommendations – how is that going for Mullum?

And as explained on page 5, Council’s Water and Sewer Advisory Committee informs councillors on matters that may be at odds with Council staff’s views.

After recommendations are made to councillors, they are later ‘noted’ at Council meetings, and can be either adopted or ignored, when it comes to implementing policy in any given area.

Anyway, Council’s website says there are 16 advisory committees all up, with vacancies available for dedicated community members.

There are also nine community hall committees listed by Council, with vacancies available for Durrumbul Hall, Ocean Shores Community Centre, South Golden Beach Community Hall and Suffolk Park Community Hall.

Oh, and to add more groups and meeting into the mix, the are Guidance Groups, who help shape town masterplans.

All these groups are made up of community members, Council staff and councillors. Most of these function with community members, and some without. Yet all have the steady, professional guidance of Council staff.

It’s important to note too that these committees can only make recommendations; it’s up the elected Council body (councillors) to adopt policy through their meetings.

Here’s some fun facts:

• The Constitution of the Housing and Affordability Advisory Committee ‘is not yet publicly available’, despite it being in operation since August 18, 2022.

• The Communications Panel lists only three councillors as members (no community members or Council staff are mentioned)

• The Business and Industry Advisory Committee currently operates without a quorum of community members, and they are being sought. (Maybe they could ask the Communications Panel to help them find them?)

• The recently held Moving Byron Committee meeting, discussed among other things, the Tweed Rail Trail. The recent agenda reads, ‘Cr Mark Swivel will be leading a discussion on the new movement corridor’.

There are agenda and minutes of these committee meetings available online, and to get involved, visit www.byron.nsw.gov.au.

Hans Lovejoy, editor

www.echo.net.au

Phone: 02 6684 1777

Editorial/news: editor@echo.net.au

Advertising: adcopy@echo.net.au

Office: Village Way, Stuart Street, Mullumbimby NSW 2482

General Manager Simon Haslam

Editor Hans Lovejoy

Deputy Editor Aslan Shand

Photographer Jeff Dawson

Advertising Manager Anna Coelho

Production Manager Ziggi Browning

Qld’s draconian/progressive drug law reforms

Over the border, the Queensland Labor government is behaving so erratically in the sphere of law reform and criminal justice that it is hard to know whether to laugh or cry.

So, I did both.

I once read a theory that the closer you get to the equator, the more right-wing and extremist the government becomes. I call it the ‘gone troppo’ hypothesis.

This model has only been halfproved this month.

In Queensland, detention centres are full. Dozens of children are being held in police cells for days or weeks at a time. Well over 70 per cent of the detainees are First Nations, 80 per cent have not been convicted of any crime, and on more than 2,800 occasions in the last 12 months solitary confinement was used on children under 14 years.

Children are being monitored and targeted by police in North Queensland, and it is no surprise that 95 per cent are First Nations.

And the reaction of the Queensland ALP government? Tougher bail laws inevitably leading to even more young Aboriginal people behind bars.

With nowhere safe to put them, the children will be held in ‘watch houses’, which essentially means no segregation from adult defendants, no education or rehabilitation, no visitation facilities and no oversight by independent agencies.

That will make the world a safer place, for sure!

The new Queensland laws required an overriding of the Human Rights Act for the first time – proudly proclaimed by the police minister.

So, young people can now be locked up with a new offence of breaching bail – on no more than suspicion that they may breach bail in the future. And the initial gatekeepers of this provision are not the courts – but the police themselves.

Previously for most offences, police were required to (or ‘must’) consider alternatives to detention. Now it is only ‘may’.

For more offences, there will be a presumption against bail, and ever longer sentences.

The Byron Shire Echo

Volume 37 #43April 5, 2023

Established 1986• 24,500 copies every week

The Echo acknowledges the people of the Bundjalung nation as the traditional custodians of this land and extends respect to elders past, present and future.

Disclaimer: The Echo is committed to providing a voice for our whole community. The views of advertisers, letter writers, and opinion writers are not necessarily those of the owners or staff of this publication.

Nicholas Shand 1948–1996

Founding Editor

‘On the same day, under the cover of locking up more First Nations kids, the Queensland government announced the most radical and unexpected changes

David Heilpern

This is a symptom of a system that has run out of alternatives, and those calling for more jail time will never be satisfied. I visited a ‘dodrugs-do-five-years-jail’ jurisdiction in the USA in the 1980s, and the media was calling for even tougher sentences, because this did not solve the drug problem. Such is the unquenchable thirst of shock-jock tabloid reactionaries.

This tragedy is a knee-jerk reaction to red-neck racist sentiment from the deep north.

Bob Katter country.

If governments are judged by how they treat the most oppressed, disadvantaged and disempowered, then the Queensland ALP fails the test. And of course, they say they are being ‘held to ransom by rogue courts and rogue justices’.

And yet, in the ultimate pea and thimble trick, on the very same day, under the cover of locking up more First Nations kids, the Queensland government announced the most radical and unexpected changes to drug laws in Australian history.

Under the new legislation, a person found carrying a small amount of any illicit drug for the first time will only be given a warning, while on the second and third occasions, they will be offered a place in a drug diversionary program.

Only on the fourth apprehension will they need to go to court. And even then, there are other behavioural change and non-conviction alternatives.

I nearly fell off my decanal chair when I heard the Qld police minister say that the laws have been introduced at the request of the Queensland police. The commissioner apparently proposed the changes, so that her troops could spend more time on serious crime. Gosh!

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Not only that, but Murdoch’s Courier Mail – the real power in Queensland – waived the changes through without blushing. Probably because they were too busy trumpeting the oppressive youth bail amendments they had been promoting for months.

And the joy just kept on coming – Queensland, on the same day, also introduced stationary and mobile pill testing, doing what no other state has had the guts to do, despite judicial and medical support. Inner-city Brisbane and music festivals around the state will be serviced by life-saving teams, who can test drugs for strength and toxicity. Again, despite the expected spluttering of the LNP, and some ‘don’t do drugs’ ignoramuses, the Courier Mail declined to condemn.

If safety is truly the number one issue for festival organisers in Northern NSW, maybe they will just have to move over the border?

Or at least threaten to.

The comeuppance is that, in Queensland, fewer people will be locked up for possession of drugs, and more people will be saved from drug overdose, only to be replaced by more traumatised Indigenous young people in paddy-wagons, watch houses, detention centres and eventually adult prisons and early graves.

So, I am laughing at the concept of Queensland leading the way on drug law reform, against all the odds. I am crying at the thought of abandoning so many younger vulnerable people to the whims of police discretion and racist rhetoric. Is the trade-off worth it? Well, you be the judge.

David Heilpern is SCU Dean of Law, and a former magistrate.

‘The job of a newspaper is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.’

– Finley Peter Dunne 1867–1936

Water needs

It seems our elected councillors are at odds with non-elected Council staff over the future of Mullum’s water supply.

My concern is that there is no consideration in the current arrangements for environmental flow in the Wilsons Creek/River below Lavertys Gap weir. This obviously didn’t seem like a big issue when the agreement was drawn up several decades ago and the population of the area was a fraction of what it is today.

However, our population is growing and every new house has flush toilets, showers and gardens to water. Might these houses be required to at least have water tanks as every roof is a perfect water catchment?

In the last drought (2019–20) the area downstream of the weir was almost stagnant. This is a vital habitat for platypus and many other native species. Local residents also rely on the creek to water food gardens.

It is crucial that we consider the long-term health of this important waterway and the survival of both native and human inhabitants.

We need to act now for the future and put in place a requirement for realistic environmental flow.

Please speak up for the river by contacting Council: council@byron.nsw.gov.au

Linda Grace Wilsons Creek Roads

A resident of Upper Main Arm, I’m appalled at the attitude of Council’s Director of Infrastructure Services,

Phil Holloway, when he says: ‘I’m not making any excuses for the road network, but the same people who are wanting the road fixed are still not driving to the conditions of the road in terms of speed.’ I assure Mr Holloway that myself and my neighbours routinely navigate this shocking excuse for a road at crawl speed, weaving around and through potholes, avoiding precipitous damaged edges, and trying not to hit one another head-on as we meet on barely one-lane stretches.

Where’s his evidence for speeding residents? Does he have a file of speeding tickets issued by law enforcement?

Doubtful, because we don’t see Highway Patrol putting their low-slung speedy cars at risk driving around Upper Main Arm.

We do see the occasional idiot, no doubt inflicting damage to their own vehicle, but they are unlikely to be residents.

Despite having reported flood damage to the road, I’ve never heard back from Council. There are no ‘conversations’ and many make-shift repairs have been carried out by despairing residents at their own risk and expense.

Knowing that many valley communities have been badly affected, we have been patient for over a year. But with no funding and no plan, Council has let us down despite taking our rates to pay themselves their nice big salaries.

Victim blaming us for our driving is the last straw.

Shame on you, Mr Holloway.

Eve Sinton Upper Main Arm

Rock walls

Henrietta Fraser’s letter last week raises some common questions about the breakwaters and rock walls at Brunswick Heads. These works were done in the early 1960s to provide a safe harbour for the local fishing fleet, which was nearly wiped out by cyclones in the mid-1950s at Byron Bay.

The Brunswick River entrance and estuary were wide and shallow, and the purpose of the works was to create a narrow channel that would hopefully be kept deep by tidal flows. Hence the breakwaters to shelter a narrow channel at the bar and the internal rock walls to concentrate tidal flows into a narrow and deep channel to the boatharbour, and also to protect Brunswick Heads from coastal erosion and storm surges.

The east-west rock wall across the entrance to Marshalls Creek was part of this work, and originally had an opening at the eastern end only. Apparently the channel to the boat harbour kept silting up, so an opening was made at the western end of the wall and the internal north-south wall in Readings Bay was built in the late 1960s or early 1970s to increase the tidal flow in the main river channel to the boat harbour.

This north-south rock wall was originally the same height as the other rock walls, but after the 1972 flood its height was reduced to about three quarters of high tide level, apparently in 1973. I don’t know whether the effect of all these works on flooding was considered when they were built, but I

suspect not. The narrowing of the channels has probably increased flood levels from floods generated by heavy rainfall, but also reduced flooding from storm surges and cyclones by restricting the inflow of ocean water into the estuary.

The north-south rock wall in Readings Bay is often thought to increase flooding in Marshalls Creek, but there is no evidence to support this theory. In 1989 modelling was done on removing the north-south wall and lowering the east-west wall to about the current height of the north-south wall. The effect in a one per cent (1-in-100 year) flood was an increase in flood levels downstream of Orana Bridge of 34mm, and a reduction in levels at New Brighton of 14mm and at Ocean Shores of 10mm.

I have a photo of the north-south wall in a flood in 1989, and the wall is clearly having no effect on the water

Cartoon by Alister Lockhart – www.alisterlockhart.netcartoon

In memory of Dr Mary Gardner

Vale Doctor Mary Gardner, a beloved friend who recently passed from us and our community.

We were dismayed to hear the news, and our condolences go out to her daughter, Claire, to her beloved husband Jim, and to the rest of her family and friends. We were only recently talking by phone with them both and knew of the latest developments.

Mary and Jim made a greater impact on the Byron Shire community than almost anyone else that we personally knew with their untiring campaigns to protect the planetary life, support ecological systems of north-eastern NSW, and to educate the public on the essential role that our natural environment undertakes.

It was always a highlight for us to read Mary’s most fascinating natural history articles published in the Byron Shire Echo over many years. She was always researching. Delving deep into the history of the discovery of various aspects within the botanical and zoological sciences, their ecological interactions and the consequences of their disturbance by unsustainable development.

We attended all of the CSIRO science film nights that she organised in the Byron Community Centre over the years. We attended most of her

▶ Continued from page 11

flow, although there was a strong flow in the channel past Torakina Park and out through the breakwaters. The reason for this is, I believe, that the main river and Simpsons and Marshalls Creeks all join together at the same point, and their combined flow is too great for the channel past Torakina Park, creating a choke point right at the exit point of Marshalls Creek.

All these issues will be looked at in a new and more detailed assessment of the 2022 flood, although it is taking a very long time to get any reports on that event.

As for the mythical ‘clogged rivers’, that might have to wait for another day.

Matthew Lambourne Mullumbimby

Voice and conscience

Some issues that parliamentarians have to vote on transcend partisan political positions. Oftentimes the issues relate to deeply-held moral, religious, or ethical views. In my view the Voice is such an issue. All parliamentarians should have a conscience vote on this, even the Nationals, who classically said (28/11/2022) that the party’s decision to oppose the Voice was not binding and individuals ‘could

festive occasions and met many of her fascinating friends. We celebrated Mary and Jim’s wedding on the 26 October 2016 at Byron Bay. We were astounded by her passion, energy, and the time that Mary put into her many conservation campaigns, and the attaining of her zoological doctorate.

We supported her in the quest to establish a Byron Coastal and ICOLL Research Centre at the Council-owned disused wastewater site south of Byron High. We believe that Cate Coorey has Mary’s original submission to Council on that proposal and perhaps we can pressure the Council to investigate it further. The Mary

choose how they would be involved’, whatever that means. I’m hoping it means they can have a conscience vote.

The Voice advisory group want the opportunity to express their concerns in their own way, not through the echo chambers of partyaligned politicians or distant bureaucrats. They want this critical role, not just when the parliament votes on a matter affecting them, but in the formulation of policy and in the execution of an enacted law. They want engagement at the earliest time that an issue emerges right through to when a law is being implemented by the respective department. And afterwards!

It’s an advisory role – not a veto role – on policy and law. It requires that parliamentarians, ministers (and their departments) engage with them. Consider how all the hundreds of lobbyists operating in the shadows in Canberra have significant impact on law-making and how little scrutiny they are subject to. A Voice body will be visible and subject to constant scrutiny.

There will be a learning curve to negotiate because this is a significant change to how governments and First Nations people interact.

Gardner Coastal Research Centre would make a fitting tribute.

Mary and Jim made an enormous difference in helping the community to incorporate more considerate and loving actions in their attitudes and appreciation of the natural habitat of which we are all a part. Mary helped to reshape our culture. She will always be remembered for her deep love of her husband, her family, her friends, her community and of the unique living planet that created the only consciousness known in the universal void that extends forever around us.

But we have had centuries now of failed policy and First Nations peoples’ concerns not being heard. Some shortterm disruption is a small price to pay for what our collective conscience needs.

To those who say it’s a waste of money, or that it’s another layer of bureaucracy, I would say that such persons don’t mind when the dice falls in their favour, but not if the dice favours someone else, such as a marginalised group.

At base, does a supposedly harmonious, multicultural society that our politicians keep reminding us of, function appropriately when the original inhabitants continue to experience disadvantage?

The Voice proposal goes to the essence of what an inclusive, compassionate society should be. From the Uluru Statement of the Heart in 2017 to the present it has been advanced with the utmost grace, with a level of trust in Australianism (i.e. the noble version of Australia), that I’ve not witnessed before, and it is asking us to consider and to vote with our conscience.

(I respectfully acknowledge the Guardian article by Natalie Tarman on 29/3/23)

Frank Lynch Wilsons Creek

STRAin

Victims of Holiday Letting (VOHL) have been analysing all documents and meeting transcripts provided by the Independent Planning Commission’s (IPC) recent inquiry into Byron Shire’s proposal for a 90-day cap for STRA.

VOHL is concerned that recalcitrant and dishonest STRA owners and managers are not complying with, and are exceeding, the current 180-day cap in Byron Shire.

One document on the IPC website was an email, dated 28 October 2022, to former Planning Minister, Anthony Roberts. This email was from Colin Hussey, who signed it as CEO of A Perfect Stay and Chairman of the Australian Short Term Rental Association Byron. Mr Hussey stated that any caps on STRA are ‘unenforceable’.

All existing STRA in Byron Shire were required, by law, to register with the Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) by 31 January 2022. With each booking, the booking engine business is required to enter the arrival and departure dates for each set of guests on the DPE Premises Register. The first registration year ended on 30 January 2023.

On 10 February, Panel members met with DPE executives. Mr Luke Walton stated that larger booking

Gary Opit and Carmel Daoud Wooyung

Mary and Jim were married in Byron Bay in 2016. Photo supplied

COVID-19 in Australia by the numbers: Week ending 31 March

Cosmos Magazine

New COVID-19 cases have jumped by 18 per cent nationally – the highest week-on-week increase since the start of December.

More than 26,500 new cases were reported across states and territories this week. The Northern Territory saw the biggest jump with twice as many cases reported (225 up from 105 last week).

99 deaths were reported this week, and more than 1,500 people were hospitalised nationwide.

COVID-19 in Australia

New South Wales

New cases reported: 9,684 (8,563 last week)

Deaths: 25 (22 last week)

engines such as Booking. com and Airbnb were cooperating and entering dates on the Premises Register. He further said that smaller booking engines were not complying with the mandatory entry of dates. Failure to enter dates is an offence under section 54C of the Fair Trading Regulations Act and a civil penalty provision applies under section 54D of the Act.

On Wednesday 22 February, the General Manager of A Perfect Stay (a smaller booking engine), Karl Divers, made a presentation to the IPC hearing. Mr Divers was asked by the commissioner about their average occupancy rate. He replied

Hospitalisations: 891 (872 last week)

ICU: 16 (13 last week)

Victoria

New cases reported: 5,225 (4,467 last week)

Deaths: 35 (25 last week)

Hospitalisations: 180 (152 last week)

ICU: 10 (10 last week)

Queensland New cases reported: 3,650 (3,207 last week)

Deaths: 16 (16 last week)

Hospitalisations: 183 (176 last week)

ICU: 2 (5 last week)

Western Australia

New cases reported: 3,246 (2,015 last week)

Deaths: 7 (7 last week)

Hospitalisations: 101 (64 last week)

ICU: 2 (1 last week)

South Australia New cases reported: 3,179

that it was about 200+ days a year. The commissioner responded by pointing out that this would have exceeded the 180-day cap. Mr Divers made a weak excuse that he misunderstood the question.

VOHL suggests that if neighbours suspect that an u-hosted STRA in Byron Shire will exceed the current 180-day cap, then keep a record of guest arrivals and departures and obtain other evidence. Lodge a complaint to the Council and Fair Trading. This is the best way of stopping this illegality and widespread rorting. If the 90-day cap is accepted, it will be essential.

Doug Luke Coordinator VOHL

(2,888 last week)

Deaths: 12 (2 last week)

Hospitalisations: 138 (135 last week)

ICU: 4 (5 last week)

Tasmania

New cases reported: 796 (748 last week)

Deaths: 2 (2 last week)

Hospitalisations: 23 (19 last week)

ICU: 0 (0 last week)

ACT

New cases reported: 526 (515 last week)

Deaths: 1 (0 last week)

Hospitalisations: 21 (14 last week)

ICU: 0 (1 last week)

Northern Territory

New cases reported: 225 (105 last week)

Deaths: 0 (0 last week)

Hospitalisations: 3 (19 last week)

ICU: 0

Dark matters

While astrophysicists have been perplexed in their futile quest for the nature of dark matter I have been quietly working in my theoretical physics laboratory and have come up with the solution, first published here in the Byron Echo

It is well known that the universe is 13.8 billion years old and life on Earth took about four billion years to reach the current stratospheric heights of human society.

Therefore it’s reasonable to assume that so-called intelligent life would have started at least somewhere in the universe 10 billion years ago.

COVID 19 weekly new cases as of 31 March. Image Infogram

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Since that initial spark of intelligence, it is reasonable to assume that the population of intelligent planets would increase by a factor of ten every billion years. Therefore we assume that there are at least ten billion planets where intelligent life has begun.

Furthermore it is reasonable to assume that each such life-spawning planet has spread its progeny to 10 other planets every billion years. Let’s not go too deeply into the maths at this stage, but a rough approximation would provide ten to the power 100 planets currently occupied by intelligent beings.

Each intelligence-planet reaches peak garbage after 200 years of industrial development and then has to place further garbage into planetary orbit followed by stellar orbit after 1,000 years.

The enormous amount of garbage accumulated around each solar system over billions of years is, of course, spread in small asteroid-sized clumps to avoid collisions and great care is taken to avoid eyesores. Over billions of years most of the visible universe has been converted to these invisible clumps of garbage which we now call dark matter.

In hindsight it is obvious why dark matter is clumped through galaxies and not distributed uniformly through the universe. I expect it will take a generation or two for my Special Theory of Garbage to be accepted by the global scientific community. So I expect I won’t live long enough receive the Nobel Prize in Physics, but perhaps an Ignobel Prize is possible, which could stimulate me further to develop a General Theory of Dark Energy.

Sapoty Brook Main Arm

Roundabout needed

Have you ever been stuck in the middle of Mullum at the intersection of Stuart and Burringbar streets, with traffic in front of you, cars turning across you and nervous pedestrians on both sets of crossings?

This intersection is forever an ‘accident waiting to happen’ and I avoid it like the plague. It’s been obvious forever – the centre of Mullum needs a roundabout!

Those yellow domes on each corner are a miserable failure (I never did understand what they are for!). They are a road hazard and just make turning the corners a lot bumpier! And of course we could crown our new roundabout with a sculpture and a garden. YAY!

Michael Balson Wilsons Creek

Rail travails

It would be challenging to sink into the bleak mindset of the person(s) who dropped nails and metal tacks along the recently-opened Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek rail trail. Presumably, this was an act of revenge for the closure of ‘their’ coal-and-oil-burning train system some twenty years ago.

Their actions would seem to be saying: ‘If we can’t have our trains on the tracks you can’t have your bikes!’ Such a puerile attitude is what has stopped any progress happening on the line for two decades! And a stark reminder that hatred of bike riders is widespread in our community, but largely hidden from view.

The radio ‘personality’, Derryn Hinch, once famously referred to cyclists as ‘cockroaches on wheels’. On average, a bike rider is killed every week by motorists in Australia. Thousands of cyclists are fined every year for not wearing helmets etc. Yet barely twenty or so fines are issued every year for cars travelling at speed and passing within the required 1–1.5 metre separation distance from bikes (potentially fatal harm to others). Most motorists probably wouldn’t even know this rule.

Cycling is a pollution-free and physically enhancing way of getting around. Already the small towns along the Murwillumbah–Crabbes Creek corridor (Mooball, Burringbar, Stokers Siding) are experiencing a wonderful revival with new shops opening and existing businesses gearing up for more customers. (There’s a great coffee shop just over the bridge in Murwillumbah.) And who’s to say we can’t eventually have some sort of rubber-wheeled, solarpowered public transport vehicle sharing the rail corridor with cyclists, walkers and horse riders?

The ride itself through the magical forests of the Burringbar Range (mercifully away from cars) is exhilarating. Although now the gloss has well and truly been taken off and I must admit I won’t approach any future rides with the same sense of exuberance. Looking out for nails in the tunnels will be next to impossible. What we need is a tractor-drawn magnetic plate to scoop them all up.

Burn Fat Not Oil!

those travelling downhill on Orana Road past the Country Club, adhere to the 50km/h limit. Often vehicles are travelling at 70-80km/h.

People walking up or down the hill take their life in their hands when they are obliged to step into the road because of frequently impassable muddy and/or overgrown nature strips. Mothers with strollers and school kids, especially those pushing bicycles up the hill, are of particular concern. It is only a matter of time before there is a serious injury or fatality.

Nor is the potentially fatal combination of speeding motorists and no footpath peculiar to this area of Ocean Shores. Traffic calming humps would help, but are not appropriate for some stretches of road, especially steep hills. This further reinforces the critical need for footpaths.

It was reprehensible that these were not planned when Ocean Shores was developed. It is even more reprehensible that, in spite of numerous requests from ratepayers over the years, Council has not seen fit to remedy this dangerous situation.

We represent a large percentage of the Shire’s ratepayers and voters but, compared to Byron Bay and Mullumbimby, we are usually an afterthought when it comes to infrastructure expenditure.

It is high time Byron Shire Council stepped up and allocated funds to provide Ocean Shores with footpaths; an essential amenity that other communities in the Shire take for granted.

Jonathan Clemens Ocean Shores

Farmers and climate

Following G MacDonald’s letter, (March 29), my guess is that he would be unlikely to join Farmers for Climate Action (FCA) any time soon. He warns that ‘our own socialist government should heed, good honest hardworking farming people will only take so much before striking back’.

‘safeguard mechanism’ for reducing carbon emissions. Their concerns included, ‘its allowance of unlimited carbon offsets for polluters to meet their targets’ with the threat of the takeover of viable agricultural land by mining corporations. It was introduced by Abbott’s government in 2016.

I’ve seen honest, hardworking farmers rally against coal and gas mining projects that threaten to take over prime agricultural areas of the Great Artesian Basin of NSW, and against fracking in the far Northern Rivers, resulting in the Lock the Gate campaign.

At the NSW Farmers Annual Conference in July last year, a new NSW Farmers Conservation and Resource Management committee was created ‘to lobby the NSW government to prevent any further coal exploration or mining activity in the Great Artesian Basin region’, fearing the effect on the water table.

But you would have to look beyond the conservative news media outlets to become aware of such lobbying. The ABC’s Landline TV program and the Rural Hour on radio are far more informative and reliable.

Sue McLeod Myocum

Improve engagement

Last week’s Echo pointed out that councillors voted unanimously to ‘note’ the staff report on Council’s community engagement and liaison. That was Part 1 of the resolution.

The matter came to Council because resolution 22-728 of last December required it, in response to suggestions made during exhibition of Council’s Community Engagement Strategy.

I for one am not inspired by our performance on community engagement, but I supported last week’s motion, because councillors added a Part 2: ‘that Councillors further discuss and consider opportunities for community engagement at a councillor workshop in 2023’.

Footpaths

Paul Davies Suffolk Park

Without footpaths you take your life in your hands. Very few motorists, especially

FCA’s mission is to ‘influence governments to implement climate policies that mitigate climate change and benefit rural communities’. These honest, hardworking farmers have sent delegations to federal parliaments of both sides. They recognise that the biggest threat to agriculture is global warming causing more extreme droughts, bushfires and flooding.

Their latest delegation went to Canberra to voice their concerns about Labor’s

I had moved a more specific Part 2: ‘that Council engages with the Mullumbimby Residents Association to discuss improving Council’s Community Engagement activities and moving Council into “higher” levels of engagement (IAP2 levels, eg Collaboration)’. This failed and the ‘softer’ Part 2 was added instead.

To support Part 2 of the resolution I had to vote for Part 1 as well.

Duncan Dey Byron Shire Councillor

72 Byron Street, Bangalow – opposite the Public School www.bangalowheadacheclinic.com.au

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By family

The Byron Shire lost a much-loved resident with the death of Joanne (Jo) Walsh on 14 March 2023. Together with her husband, Mick O’Regan, and their infant son, Vincent, Jo moved from Sydney in the late 1990s to be close to her extended family, and to establish her own environmental management business in Byron Bay. The family settled into a shared property on the outskirts of Bangalow in 2004. From her first days in Byron Shire, Jo worked tirelessly to utilise her deep knowledge of soil and water to aid both rural producers and local government personnel to improve environmental outcomes. As she so often said, ‘good soil and clean water underpins everything’.

Jo Walsh was the third daughter and youngest child of Bill Walsh and Doreen Murdoch, who emigrated from England in 1955. While her elder siblings were UK-born, Jo was the ‘Aussie baby’. Her childhood was spent in Sydney’s beachside suburbs

of Clovelly and Randwick. Always a bright spark and a natural leader, she was the School Captain of Clovelly Public School. After attending Sydney Girls High, she went on to Sydney University where she graduated with an Arts degree in History and Spanish. Her deep love of all things Latin, and her fierce and unstinting commitment to political solidarity, saw Jo join work brigades that went to both Cuba (1984) and Nicaragua (1987). In Nicaragua, she coordinated and led a group of 30 Australians who helped in the annual coffee harvest, and contributed to the wellbeing of local communities.

Jo’s commitment to Latin American solidarity was both principled and practical. Her life endorsed Che Guevara’s maxim that a true revolutionary is guided primarily by love, and compassion for all facing injustice. And her love of the music, the food and the spirit of Latin America brought to mind

Emma Goldmann’s famous retort, ‘if I can’t dance to it, it’s not my revolution!’ In a moving eulogy, her lifelong

friend Keith March noted ‘Jo was the first to arrive at the party, and the last to leave the barricades’. Her determination to have a set of practical, professional skills that could assist developing world communities inspired Jo to complete a second degree in Agricultural Science. She became an expert in recycled water, soil health, and organic certification for rural producers. In her working life in Sydney she held senior positions at both Sydney Water and the NSW Environment Protection Authority. When she arrived

in the Byron Shire in 1999, those skills became assets for the whole community. She helped establish the Organic Producers Roundtable, was instrumental in establishing recycled water protocols and was an invaluable expert in all matters to do with best practice for effluent management. She wore, with pride and laughter, the title of ‘Sludge Queen’. As she once said in a speech to wastewater specialists, ‘not only does shit happen, it happens to be good’.

Beyond work, Jo’s life was rich with connections

to family and friends. Her beloved sister, Janthia Powditch, and the nieces and nephews she cherished, became a web of support and encouragement for her. She was a favourite aunt, a wonderful sister and a muchadmired colleague. However, her greatest boast was being a mother. Her ferocious love for her son, Vincent, was a hallmark of her life. She threw herself into giving him the best possible experience of life. Whether it was taking him to Spaghetti Circus, managing the Byron Public School band, encouraging him to sing, play the drums, or simply exhorting him to love the natural world, Jo showed Vincent the meaning of unconditional love.

Jo Walsh’s life was cruelly interrupted by a diagnosis of younger onset dementia when she was only 53. It was a devastating moment, and one she handled with astounding grace. As her life was irrevocably changed, she never complained but continued to see in the world everything she loved. In her unfiltered ways, she maintained a passion for

family and friends, continued with her declaratory politics (some locals may even remember a celebrated moment at the 2019 Byron Writers Festival when she told a crowded marquee exactly what she thought of Scott Morrison. Jo Walsh wasn’t one to hold back the expletives!).

Most of the last decade Jo was cared for at home, primarily by her husband, Mick, and her elder sister, Janthia. In September 2019, after a sudden diminution in her health, she was admitted to Feros Care in Bangalow. Despite the difficulties, it was a time of great connection, of intimacy and love.

Jo’s raucous laughter punctuated the days, while her generosity and empathy never diminished. Deep into her illness she would often walk to the edge of her front verandah, throw her arms wide and declare to the green, bird-filled valley that ‘We are so lucky’.

In fact, all who knew Jo were lucky; she made the world a better place. Vale, Jo Walsh.

Jo Walsh. Photo Anne Zahalka

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Next to IGA Supermarket

Mon to Fri 10am–4pm Sat 9am–1pm

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Lipoprotein(a). Known cause for early onset vascular disease. Should we be testing for it?

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RUGS & VINYLS CARPETS

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Pretty well everyone has heard of someone who has died prematurely of stroke or heart attack with autopsy results often showing the individual had significant disease of the blood supply to their heart or brain, or both. Their blood vessels were blocked up with a fatty plaque that impeded blood supply and therefore oxygen to those tissues, without which the tissues die because they are starved of oxygen. And their blocked-up arteries may have sent off a shower of particles that blocked up small blood vessels further upstream, not unlike putting a cork in a bottle causing tissues on the other side of the blockage to be affected. Make no mistake, your brain and heart need a constant oxygen supply and without it they are in serious trouble.

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winthelastthreeeditions,andthat wasenoughfortheRussiadom‐inatedFIDEtopulltheplug.

Australiahasonlyoncesenta teamtotheStudentChessOlym‐piad,backin1978withateam travellingtoMexicoCity,mostof whomhadneverleftAustralia before.

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thantheotherteamsintheUnder 26eventandwithnotitledplay‐ers,Australiasomehowmanaged toreachtheAFinalandfinish ninth,behindthesuperpowersof thetime:theUSSR,USA,Cuba andsurprisewinnerEngland.

TheAustralianteam’snaivety wassoonobvioustotheop‐position,andruthlesslyexploited: frommyhabitofbecomingover‐optimisticafterreceivingadraw offer,toDarrylJohansen’slackofa senseofdanger.

However,thatnaivetydidwork inAustralia’sfavourinonecase,a drawbyAustralia’ssecondboard GuyWestagainstCubanGrand‐masterAmadorRodriguez(see game).

In1997,after33editionsand stillonlyoneAustralianentry,the finalStudentOlympiadwasheld inArgentina.Russiahadfailedto

MexicoCityWorldStudentOlympiad1978

White:GWest

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We are reminded just how critical that oxygen supply is from an American study done in the 1960’s where a group of ‘volunteer’ sailors had a blood pressure cuff put around their necks and the cuff pumped up until it cut off the blood supply to their brains. The study found that it was approximately ten seconds before the sailors lost consciousness demonstrating just how dependent the brain was on blood supply and, of course, oxygen. While the brain is only two per cent of body weight it consumes roughly 25 per cent of the oxygen supply pumped out by the heart. It is not hard to imagine how a reduction of blood through blockage may lead to rapid changes in brain function as seen in stroke and transient ischemic attack (a brief stroke-like attack). This is reflected in changes in your function such as difficulties or loss in speech, limb or facial weakness or loss of other functions, which can be confronting. The critical thing to do in these circumstances is to get urgent medical help and intervention and not sit around waiting hoping that things will get better, something males in particular like to do! Time is of the essence. Even if it doesn’t turn out to be a stroke there may be other treatable reasons for the event. Better safe than sorry!

Of course, not all those who die prematurely have clogged up arteries. There may be other causes such as faults in the electrical systems that control the heart and its rhythms, which pump blood to the heart itself and the rest of the brain and body, and without which we cannot live.

Vascular disease

However, a major cause of premature stroke or heart attack is vascular disease, for which there are many treatable causes, including lifestyle factors that everyone knows something about; such as obesity, lack of exercise or sedentary lifestyle, smoking, high cholesterol, and heavy alcohol consumption.

On the other side of the vascular disease equation are genetic factors, which can also be treated and are being treated; such as high cholesterol, which

Perfusion images of the heart during stress testing, and at rest, revealing reversible defect of blood supply caused by blockage of arteries to the heart. Further study showed serious blockage of all three major arteries to the heart requiring urgent open heart surgery. The patient had very high levels of Lipoprotein(a) and family history of early onset vascular disease.

tends to run in families independent of good diet and control of other factors. And there are some genetic factors that have been known about for many years and lead to premature vascular death, for which we don’t yet have effective treatments with demonstrated clinical efficacy or benefit.

Lipoprotein(a)

One of these factors is Lipoprotein(a). It is 60 years since its discovery. Surprisingly many folks across the medical and allied profession know little or nothing about this nasty low-density fat, probably because no treatments have been available and so it has been ignored. However, there has been a big increase in interest in Lipo(a) (as it is often called) because it’s a demonstrated cause of premature vascular disease of the heart and blood vessels to the brain, with associated heart attacks and strokes.

Lipo(a) can be measured by blood test, and because it is primarily genetically determined if you have repeat testing you will almost always get the same or similar result regardless of lifestyle interventions. Lipo(a) not only causes what’s called ‘thin cap atheroma’ in your blood vessels, which have an altered core compared with other plaques, but is also associated with blood clotting changes, cytokine storms where your system may overrespond to disease challenge, and increased calcific disease of the aortic valve of the heart.

Lipoproteins are particles made up of proteins and fats that play a key role in the transport of fats throughout your body. There are different classes of lipoproteins with Lipo(a) a unique, low density lipoprotein with at least 120 variants, some apparently more atherogenic than others; particularly those with a small molecular structure, or what is known as fewer ‘kringles’ or

folds (like the folded Danish pastry and probably just as bad for you). Those with blood levels greater than 50mg/ dl have been shown to have higher risk of vascular disease, and the higher the level the greater the risk. We do not yet know what the importance of Lipo(a) is to human function, but there has been some suggestion that because of its structure it may affect clotting change so that you are less likely to bleed to death should you have an accident, something which would have been very useful in evolutionary terms!

Fortunately, help seems to be on the way with new drugs being trialled for Lipo(a) reduction. The drugs are known to dramatically reduce Lipo(a) levels, but whether or not they reduce risk of vascular events or reverse vascular changes is not yet known. It may be that early intervention is needed with these drugs to stop the development of vascular disease, rather than try to pick up the pieces when the damage is done.

In the meantime, if you have a family history of premature vascular disease it may be worth getting your baseline done so that you know where you stand and are in line for treatment once efficacy of medication is proven. It will cost you as medical benefits don’t cover. In the meantime the research suggests the best thing you can do is get your LDL-C down with the help of your doctor and optimise lifestyle factors.

The way things are now progressing, Lipo(a) may not be the early death sentence it has been for some families.

Oh, and I forgot to mention, about 20 per cent of the population has elevated Lipo(a). There are racial differences. It is not a rare thing to have! Although other countries are now pushing for universal testing for Lipo(a), not so for Australia. The approach here seems to be pick up testing in high risk patients and families rather than test everyone – 80 per cent of whom don’t have the elevation.

Scientists concerned Antarctic ice melt threatens to collapse the deep

Cosmos Magazine

Finely balanced nutrient, oxygen and carbon circulation is being ‘handbraked’ in the Southern Ocean.

Century-long impacts to marine ecosystems and global climate beckon if Antarctic deep ocean circulation collapses, say Australian scientists.

Evoking The Day After Tomorrow, a film where the shutdown of North Atlantic ocean currents shut down and cause widespread and rapid climate change, this new research explores the real-world slowing of similar processes in the Southern Ocean around Antarctica.

The research examines overturning circulation: a natural process by which a web of deep-water ocean currents act like a conveyor belt, transporting nutrients, oxygen, carbon and heat from the depths of the sea around the globe, shaping climate systems and marine life. It is a finely balanced system.

But new modelling, led by Professor Matthew England

from UNSW, says this process could slow by more than 40 per cent and collapse by the midpoint of the century, assuming the current global rate of greenhouse gas emissions continues.

This, more than other atmospheric influences, is pulling the handbrake on overturning circulation.

density

In Antarctica, hundreds of trillions of tonnes of dense salt water sinks to the bottom of the ocean every year.

This water is rich in nutrients, thanks to the deterioration of dead animal matter sinking with it. Deep ocean currents convey this material northward to the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans.

But the process is being altered by meltwater – the term given to freshwater released by thawing ice in Antarctica. Meltwater is increasing, driven by ever-increasing greenhouse gases pushing global temperatures higher.

The freshwater effectively dilutes the density of deep ocean salt water. With less water sinking to the ocean’s depths, the overturning circulation process will slow, in turn preventing the movement of nutrients, oxygen and heat to other regions.

In addition, England says this process has ‘knock on’ effects that will see the ability of the ocean to absorb carbon reduced, and lead to changes in tropical rainfall bands and the health of marine ecosystem productivity.

BELONGIL CATCHMENT DRAINAGE BOARD 2023 BOARD ELECTIONS

Water Management (General) Regulation 2004

The BELONGIL CATCHMENT DRAINAGE BOARD will be conducting elections for directors (seven positions) in June 2023. Director and secretary, Tom Vidal will be acting as the Returning Officer for this election.

To be eligible to vote, or nominate for election to the board, a person must be a landholder in the drainage district of the Belongil Catchment Drainage Board.

A preliminary roll of voters (members) and a map of the Drainage Board district can be obtained from the returning officer at belongildrainageboard@gmail.com.

A person whose name does not appear on the preliminary roll for the election may apply for enrolment in the final roll if they are a landholder within the boundary of the Belongil Catchment Drainage Board district. Such an application must be lodged with the Returning Officer by no later than 5pm on 28th April 2023 using Form2 – Application for Enrolment (provided by the Returning Officer).

Any person with an objection to the content of the preliminary roll, e.g. name omitted from roll, incorrect voting rights, incorrect enrolments etc., must lodge the objection in writing with the Returning Officer by 5pm on 28th April 2023.

When finalised, the final roll of voters will be available from the returning officer. Advice in regard to the date by which nominations

A landmark study, and a call to action

With the rate of ice melt driven by greenhouse gas rises, the research published by England’s team adds an important, antipodean perspective to add to existing research on North Atlantic overturning slowdown.

Oceanographer, Professor Trevor McDougall, also based at UNSW but not involved with the research, described the modelling as a ‘landmark study’.

These also affect North Atlantic overturning – the central idea to TheDay After Tomorrow – which is already estimated by scientists to be at a thousand-year minimum.

‘Once you change the overturning circulation, you reset the global energy balance,’ England says.

‘And you can shift the ITCZ –the intertropical convergence zone, the big rainfall bands in the tropics – almost synchronously with those changes.

‘It’s almost an instantaneous response in the atmosphere.’

‘This study is the first to shed light on the causes of the warming at the bottom of the Southern Ocean, and importantly, the mechanisms that are causing this warming,’ McDougall says.

Their modelling was performed under the ‘high’ IPCC climate change scenario, which puts the Earth on a three-degree warming pathway if there is little change to current global carbon emissions.

Aside from the impacts of slowed

overturning processes on climate conditions, the consequences for marine productivity are also severe –directly impacting food chain foundations by diminishing phytoplankton availability and cutting feeding opportunities for larger fish and marine mammals.

‘The choices we make today… commit us to a certain level of warming. That certain level of warming goes along with a certain amount of ice melt, so we commit ourselves now to this freshwater input,’ says Dr Steve Rintoul, who leads the CSIRO’s Southern Ocean research team.

‘What our study does is show what the impacts of that freshwater input are.’

Earlier in March, the IPCC AR6 synthesis report forecast current, high levels of carbon emissions would lead to major pressure on ecosystems, fish stock depletion and three to four times the number of extreme climate events within the lifetimes of children born today, compared to Baby Boomers.

for election as a director must be received will be advertised. Forms for nomination of candidates will be provided by the Returning Officer.

Nominations must be signed by the nominee, proposer and seconder, all of whom must be eligible to vote in the election. The nomination must be lodged with the Returning Officer by the specified date.

If less than 7 nominations are received the election will be declared as uncontested and all nominees will be advised of their appointment to the board. If a ballot is required, a General Meeting will be called and voting papers will be issued in accordance with the members voting rights contained in the Roll of Voters.

It is recommended that potential Directors considering nomination contact the Returning Officer to discuss the roles and responsibilities of the Board. All other enquiries regarding this election can also be directed to the Retuning Officer.

Copies of all forms can be obtained by contacting the Returning Officer Tom Vidal on 0411 826442 or belongildrainageboard@gmail.com.

Enrolment and objection forms are to be forwarded to the Returning Officer, BELONGIL CATCHMENT DRAINAGE BOARD, POBox 441, Byron Bay NSW 2481 or via e-mail to belongildrainageboard@gmail.com.

CLIENT LIAISON DJ SET

Glacier in Neko Harbour, Antarctica. Photo www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neko_Harbour

The

arts

The Mud Trail Potters’EasterMarket

Looking for local Easter fun? If you are interested in the handmade, stop at the Newrybar Hall for a creative lift when you get your hot cross buns and your coffee.

The Mud Trail Potters’ Market is on at this delightful hinterland hall across the Easter weekend, Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 April, open 9am–3pm.

Nine different studios are participating: Studio Suvira, Robyn Porritt, Sos Ceramics, Lucy Be Ceramics, Chez Pottery, Lunio by Sofie, Hoof Print Pottery, Coe Studio and Catherine Lane. This one location gives you the opportunity to see quality ceramics that embrace diversity. From useful, earthy, functional pots, to fun sculptures–all works are for sale and there will be something for every taste and budget. Sustainability underpins the Northern Rivers region, so when you spend your consumer dollars on handmade creations from people who live and work here you’re actively supporting a smaller footprint.

Bring your shopping basket and your friends and plan to come early.

They are heartily supported by the Bangalow CWA, so there’ll be tea and scones there too. This is a one weekend, one location event. 9am–3pm, Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 April at Newrybar Hall, Newrybar Village.

See you there!

Byron Writers Festival

An evening with Shehan Karunatilaka

Byron Writers Festival is thrilled to present Sri Lankan author Shehan Karunatilaka, live in conversation with ABC Radio National’s Paul Barclay for his 2022 Booker Prize-winning novel, The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida

Ten years after his prizewinning novel Chinaman established him as one of Sri Lanka's foremost authors, Shehan Karunatilaka is back with a mordantly funny, searing satire, set amid the murderous mayhem of a Sri Lanka beset by civil war. Described as a ‘mash-up of Stranger Things and Salman Rushdie’ (Times), The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida is a state-of-the-nation epic that proves, yet again, that the best fiction offers the ultimate truth.

Don’t miss this special event with one of Sri Lanka’s most brilliant minds. 6pm, Tuesday 23 May at Byron Theatre.

Bookings essential via byronwritersfestival.com/whats-on

Body of the Void exhibition

Katherine Simmonds is a local artist based in Byron Bay. Her first solo exhibition, Body of the Void, at Lone Goat Gallery explores the intersection between the outer natural landscape and her inner emotional landscape. Inspired by the recent catastrophic flooding in the Northern Rivers, painting has provided a cathartic response to these events and a way to externalise the trauma and find transcendent beauty in the weather. She studied at UNSW Art and Design, Sydney and Slade School of Fine Art, London. Opening 5pm Thursday 6 April (complimentary drink on arrival), the exhibition continues until 6 May. The artist will also lead a guided meditation and cacao ceremony in the gallery at 2pm Saturday 22 April. www.katherinesimmonds.com

www.lonegoatgallery.com

28 Lawson St, Byron Bay

BSA Term Two courses now listed online

BSA has a full program of short courses and weekend workshops to meet your creative needs. Available upcoming classes include the fundamentals of painting, ceramic sculpture, painting using mixed media, photography, drawing, contemporary watercolour, installation practice and collage. Classes are limited to small groups in order to maximise one-on-one time with instructors. Visit their website for more information.

byronschoolofart.com

Catherine Lane: Scrub turkey and dog

Lucy B Phillips: Jug

R Porritt: Vessel

Coe Studio: Sentient x 2

A visual feast for all

The Nimbin Art Fair is hosted by The Nimbin Artists Gallery, a not-for-profit that passionately supports the efforts and dreams of the clever creative. The Fair is a visual feast of Northern NSW talent.

Music, performance, the arts and a strong belief in a better tomorrow permeate the thoughts of many. Small shows that support locals are an integral part of this cultural circuit and community support is the only stability that can deflect a maelstrom of turbulence. The Nimbin Artists Gallery has supported local artists for many years.

Works from local and internationally renowned artists and emerging practitioners will be on view. There will be something to love for all, be they seasoned collectors or first-time art buyers.

8-25 April 10am–4pm at Nimbin School of Arts 47 Cullen St, Nimbin www.nimbinschoolofarts.org.au

ART GALLERIES

ART KIND BYRON BAY

Exhibiting contemporary paintings, ceramics, prints and jewellery. 3/18 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay Open Wed–Fri: 10am–2.30pm, Sat 10am–1pm 0404 946 553 @artkindbyronbay www.artkind.com.au

ARTIST STUDIO GALLERY

Belongil Beach

Open by appointment. 0409 604 405 www.janrae.com.au

ARTIST’S HOME GALLERY BYRON BAY

Landscape inspired works imparting a ‘spirit of place’. Open by appointment. 6685 5317 jaypearse.com

BS’A PROJECT SPACE

112 Dalley St, Mullumbimby 0487 362 141 byronschoolofart.com/exhibitions

GALLERY COSMOSIS

Visionary Art

22 Brigantine St, Byron Bay Open Wed–Sat 10.30am–4pm or by appointment 0431 331 205 gallerycosmosis.com linktr.ee/gallerycosmosisbyronbay

H’ART GALLERY

Local art in the heart of Mullumbimby Mullumbimby Comprehensive Health Centre 60 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby 0401 647 325

HEALING ART DESIGN & NEW AGE GALLERY

Azura Kingscliff

Shop 2B, 60 Marine Parade 0408 868 793

KARENA WYNN-MOYLAN, FINE ART Bangalow Studio

By appt: 0414 822 196 karenawynn-moylanart.com

LISMORE REGIONAL GALLERY — POP-UP SPACE

46 Magellan Street, Lismore NSW 2480 Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm. Thursday until 6pm Phone 02 6627 4600

Margaret Olley: far from a still life

Margaret Olley: Far From A Still Life tells the story of Olley’s incredible life and enduring career through her greatest legacy – her art.

Presented exclusively at the Tweed Regional Gallery, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Margaret Olley’s birthday, the exhibition is drawn entirely from the Tweed Regional Gallery collection.

For more information visit gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au

2 Mistral Rd, Murwillumbah 6670 2790

Image: Margaret Olley 2006

Email art.gallery@lismore.nsw.gov.au www.lismoregallery.org

LONE GOAT GALLERY

28 Lawson Street, Byron Bay. Wed to Sat: 10am–4pm lonegoatgallery.com

MACKAY HARRISON GALLERIES

79 Bayview Drive, East Ballina

Welcome by appointment

Artist/Sculptor David Harrison 0412 664 284

MIST GALLERY

Shop 1B-51 Tweed Coast Rd, Cabarita Beach 0419 870 305 mist.gallery.cabarita@gmail.com FB & Insta: @mistgallery

MULLUMBIMBY CLAYWORKERS GALLERY Drill Hall Complex, 2 Jubilee Ave, Mullumbimby. Open Thurs–Sat: 10am–2pm mullumclayworkers.com

MZ GALLERY

57 Tennyson Street, Byron Bay 0468 718 045 Byron Bay Contemporary Artspace www.byronartspace.com.au

NIMBIN ARTISTS GALLERY 47 Cullen Street, Nimbin, NSW 2480

Opening Hours: 10am–4pm daily 02 6689 1444 www.nimbinartistsgallery.org

NORTHERN RIVERS COMMUNITY GALLERY

Cnr Cherry & Crane Sts, Ballina Open Wed–Fri: 10am–4pm Sat/Sun: 9.30am–1pm 02 6681 0530 nrcgballina.com.au

PEEK GALLERY

Check website for opening hours. 7/8 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay 0488 646 464 hello@peekgallery.com @peekgallery www.peekgallery.com

STUDIO SUVIRA

CERAMICS & SCULPTURE GALLERY

Home gallery and sculpture garden. 28 Left Bank Rd, Mullumbimby. 0402 125 922 (call/sms first) suviramcdonald.com

TWEED REGIONAL GALLERY & MARGARET OLLEY ART CENTRE

Gallery hours: 10am–5pm (Wed to Sun) Cafe open: 9.30am–4.00pm 2 Mistral Rd, Murwillumbah 6670 2790 artgallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au

Term 2 Short Courses & Weekend Workshops

Photo: Christopher Shain ©The artist Courtesy Tweed Regional Gallery collection

Jenni Rogers: Beach House

H O L I D A Y S S C H OO L

The Byron Bay Wildlife sanctuary

Easter holidays are so EGG-CITING at The Byron Bay Wildlife sanctuary!

Meet the new wildlife residents who have recently joined their family, including some baby bunnies that need extra cuddles from you!

There’s fun for the kids with their annual Easter Egg Hunt, crafts, face painting, and outdoor games for the whole family.

Balloon Aloft

With Autumn in the air, and Easter and school holidays here once again, it’s the perfect time for a special family adventure, and what could be more perfect than a hot air balloon ride with your loved ones over the rainbow region!

For adults, kids, visitors and locals alike, this is an unforgettable experience!

Magical sunrise views and a delicious breakfast together afterwards at the Three Blue Ducks restaurant make for a fun and exciting morning activity. Flight gift vouchers, group and private bookings can be made at www.balloonaloftbyronbay.com www.balloonaloftbyronbay.com

Byron Skate School

Our Warehouse Day Camp is a great way to meet some new friends that share the same passion as you and to improve your skateboarding skills. We offer a full day of skateboard instruction in a fun day camp environment, at our coaching facility in the Byron Bay Arts & Industry Estate. It is a unique and fun experience for kids aged 6 to 12 years old, from beginners to advanced.

Time: 9am–3pm.

Cost: $120 (includes lunch and snacks) skateboardschool.com.au

Become a ‘Wildlife Guardian’ or ‘Keeper For A Day’ where you can meet the team and get up close and personal with the wildlife. Bookings essential for holiday programs as these fill up quickly!

When you visit, help them name their bunnies and go in the draw to win a Family Membership for all yearround access to the Byron Bay Wildlife sanctuary, valued at $300!

419 Hinterland Way, Knockrow

www.byronbaywildlifesanctuary.com.au

MINI MAKERS AT ART KIND BYRON BAY!

Creative fun is in Byron Bay these holidays.  Make, play and explore at Art Kind! Have fun with watercolour paints, specialty papers, pencils and a range of art practices. A different activity each day with a mix of art, craft and creative experimentation. Facilitated by artist, surface designer and Art Kind gallery owner, Bec Duff. Please note that bookings are essential, as places are limited.

Ages: Suitable for children 6–12 years old.

Date: 11–21 April 2023.

Time: 9.30am–12.00pm.

Cost: $50 per child, per session. All bookings via www.artkind.com.au

0404 946 553

www.artkind.com.au

@artkindbyronbay

Art Kind Studio Gallery

18 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay

Includes breakfast at Three Blue Ducks Restaurant – The Farm

Volume 37 #43

5–11 April, 2023

Editor: Eve Jeffery

Editorial/gigs: gigs@echo.net.au

Copy deadline: 5pm each Friday

Advertising: adcopy@echo.net.au

P: 02 6684 1777

W: echo.net.au/entertainment

AXIS OF AWESOME FOR VINYL AT EASTER

Byron Bay Easter Record fair returns to Ewingsdale hall. Now in its 13th year the Byron Bay Easter record fair is one of the biggest and best in this country. Matt the Vinyl Junkie has spent years going on buying trips to the USA and Japan, scouring dusty warehouses,

shops, flea markets and private collections, and offers an astounding 30,000 records in one place, covering most genres.

A recent buying trip to Japan has topped up the crates. The Vinyl Junkie will also be DJing most days at the fair,

BRUNSWICK PICTURE HOUSE TURNS OUR FAVOURITE NUMBER

We can’t believe the Brunswick Picture House is turning seven years young this Easter! The venue opened in 2016 with a wild, indescribable little show called the Cheeky Cabaret, and they haven’t looked back since.

The reputation of the outrageous genre-bending Cheeky has had people talking all over the Shire, and with its weird and fabulous lineup that attracts international artists who would ordinarily play much bigger stages – it is, without question, the wildest night you’ll have in the Northern Rivers!

To celebrate their seventh birthday they’ve put together another bumper Cheeky season over three huge weeks this April.

The Cheeky features a different cast of troubadours, miscreants, delectable divas and cabaret queens every season, so no two shows are ever the same. You’ll leave spellbound, titillated and amazed. Think you’ve seen it all? Think again…

This month, arrive early and tell all your friends to meet you at the Cheeky Garden Cocktail Bar. It’s open before, during and after the show for a cheeky cocktail and more…

If you’re keen to see a Cheeky show, or any shows at Brunswick Picture House, then you should totally become a Brunswick Picture Housemate – you’ll get amazing benefits, including priority entry to all shows, a 20 per cent discount on tickets for you and three friends, and special membership events throughout the year. You’re not only doing yourself a favour, you’re also supporting a local community not-for-profit entertainment venue and could consider yourself a ‘friend with benefits!’.

The Brunswick Picture House is centrally located in Bruns, and it’s here in this unlikely little venue where some magic really happens! They are airconditioned for your comfort, so grab some friends and come along for a great night out. Their kiosk and box office are open one hour before all shows. Psst… make sure you check out their upfront ‘Posh Seating’ – it’s the best seat in town!

For tickets, visit brunswickpicturehouse.com.

playing records from the collection, so if you hear something you love – be quick to buy the copy on the decks while it spins. Starting Good Friday 7 April, until Tuesday 11 April. This is an event not to be missed for any record lover. Open 10am–6pm every day.

Byron Bay Easter Record Fair, 7–11 April, 10am–6pm. Ewingsdale Hall, William Flick Lane (opposite The Farm).

THE HEART IS FLAMING

Bigger and better than ever, Flaming Heart Fest at The Billinudgel Hotel presents an afternoon full of incredible indie rock and psychedelic rock.

Two thirds of Pj Sheek, a psychedelic rock band from Lennox Head, will be performing, as will Liquid Contours, who will be performing as a fivepiece. Liquid Contours play very lo-fi psychedelic alternative rock.

Byron Bay legends, those heavy psych rockers –Mudwagon – are also on the bill performing as their usual four-piece. They know how to get a show going!

Sugar Leaves are a Brisbane band. Their genre lies between chill, dreamy, beachy and psychedelic. They’ve had a couple of their music videos on Rage, so check them out – Flaming Heart Fest will be their last stop on their east coast tour.

Eyesite are the youngest of the bunch, just graduating from high school last year. They’re an indie grunge band from Kingscliff and were recently finalists in a battle of the bands comp to open for The Smashing Pumpkins (we’re keeping our fingers crossed for them!).

Leaving Jordan are a well known outfit from the Northern Rivers – also indie rock – who will be headlining the fest. They have a new EP due to be released within a matter of months.

Profits from the fest will be donated to the Byron Youth Service.

Support some of the best acts under the east coast sun, while helping raise funds for the Byron Youth Service.

Saturday 15 April, 2023, 3pm. Door price is $35 or buy online from Oztix. CATCH YA THERE!

ated to the under the east coast or e from Oztix.

LONG SUNSET

The Long Sunset will feature four time Hottest 100 featured band, Lime Cordiale, who will bring their suave grooves to the Scenic Rim’s favourite annual event on 29 April.

It was while playing a gig in Vienna, Austria, that Oli and Louis Leimbach, better known as Lime Cordiale, made eye contact and exchanged the same thought: ‘What the hell is going on here?!’ The duo were on their first headline European tour, not really knowing the size of their fanbase over there. ‘We took a gamble,’ says Oli with a shrug.

They certainly weren’t expecting a big crowd in Vienna, but not only did Lime Cordiale sell out the show, when they performed that night, the audience knew all the words to their songs, something that continued to happen throughout their European tour. ‘When you play a show and strangers are singing your own song back to you, it’s like a massive drug,’ says Oli. ‘You sort of get addicted to that.’ Back at home, audiences provide that drug in spades. Lime Cordiale’s infectious performances and genuine, generous interactions with their fans have made them one of Australia’s buzziest acts over the past couple of years. It’s a fact that was reflected in the Triple J Hottest 100 poll in January 2019 when Lime Cordiale was the only act to have four songs in the top 40 – a feat that not even Billie Eilish pulled off. It’s been an incredible start to the year for the Sydney duo, but the brothers would be quick to tell you that it’s been a long way to the top. Their growth was organic, too, thanks to their tireless gigging. In 2012, the year they released their debut EP, Faceless Cat, and they played about 100 shows.

Eight years, three EPs and one album later and the boys have nearly 100,000 followers on Instagram and are playing to wildly enthusiastic crowds across Australia and overseas, with James Jennings (drums), Felix Bornholdt (keyboard) and Nick Polovineo (trombone, guitar), rounding out the touring band. The new Lime Cordiale album, 14 Steps to a Better You, represents how far they’ve come, both musically and personally.

The year ahead looks equally bright for Lime Cordiale. Heavy touring is something the brothers have always found more energising than exhausting, especially when they return to Europe and find that their fans have brought their mates, and mates of mates to their shows and everyone in the house is singing along.

Oli says when you release a song, you don’t realise that people know it until you play a show and people are singing that song back to you. ‘That’s pretty huge, and it’s incredibly rewarding.’

Rewards for Lime Cordiale, and you, as they play alongside Winston Surfshirt, Hatchie, Sycco, Tia Gostelow and more at The Long Sunset, 29 April at Elysian Fields, Canungra – info and tickets can all be found at: qldmusictrails.com.

BYRON YOUTH SERVICE YAC BYRON COMEDY FESTIVAL

CAN COMEDY SAVE THE WORLD?

Byron Comedy Festival say yes! And it’s not just the world they’re saving, it’s you!  Get yourself ready for the transformative healing power of laughter when the best of comedy from the National and International circuit hits Byron Bay, 1–4 June

Opening night features Murwillumbah’s own Bob Downe! He can sing, he can dance, he takes very good care of his hair, and he is unmatched when it comes to showbiz sparkle and laughs. Bob Downe is one of the most enduring five-star comedy acts on the circuit. He’s Julia Morris meets Jamie Redfern! He’s Dame Edna meets Bublé!  He presents his live show with some classic Downe hits.

Other festival headlines include Paul McDermott and his long suffering sidekick, known only as +1. Together they present the mayhem, beauty and wonder of a full societal critique. Women rule the roost at this year’s Byron Comedy Fest with Mandy Nolan presenting a spectacular gala of women’s comedy: Women on Top. Starring

Mel Buttle and Kirsty Webeck, and

showcasing the talents of Melbourne International Comedy Festival faves: Janty Blair, Alexandra Hudson, Ting Lim and Vanessa Mitchell. Mandy will also premiere her brand new show The Candidate, fresh from a season at Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Ting Lim presents her festival smash as well: Every Ting or No Ting

Akmal’s new show Not Dead Yet has been ‘laying them in the aisles’. Unguarded and impossible not to love, Akmal digs deep with this latest reflection on his life in the biz 30 years on.

Best of British return with some of the cheekiest wits the Brits have on offer. It’s hosted by Dan Willis and featuring Jeff Green, Nikky Wilkinson and Luke Benson, with a comedy panel asking ‘Can Comedy Save the World?’ that features comedians with a political edge who believe jokes can be powerful.

There are new comedy aspirants battling it out for supremacy in Akmal’s Comedy Slam for the golden handshake and the $1k cheque. There’s a touch of test cricket when Mick Neven presents The Ashes – where three Brit comics try and beat the Aussies; where ‘runs’ are laughs and ‘overs’ are blistering sevenminute sets!

All this and impromptu art sessions with Pricasso, the man who paints portraits with his penis.

The kids are in on the action too with Matt Grey’s Game On & 101 Ways to Annoy your Parents & Other Really Old People! Byron Comedy Fest 1–4 June. Tickets are on sale now. For program and ticket info go to byroncomedyfest.com.

BALLINA FAIR CINEMAS

WEDNESDAY 5

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON

BAY, JAMESON EVENT

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY,

3PM GABRIELLE LAMBE,

6PM BLUESFEST BUSKERS

FINALS

BYRON THEATRE

7PM SCREENING – ‘AND STILL

I SING’ FUNDRAISER FOR

BR4R

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM ALLY

PALMER

THE NORTHERN, BYRON

BAY, THE GIN BUGGS

BANGALOW BOWLO

7.30PM BANGALOW

BRACKETS’ OPEN MIC

SESSION

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE

HOUSE 7PM SCREENING

‘BEIRUT DREAMS IN COLOR’ +

FUNDRAISER + Q&A

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 7.15PM DON

MCLEAN 50TH ANNIVERSARY

TOUR

THURSDAY 6

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON

BAY, THE GIN BUGGS

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON

BAY, CLIENT LIAISON

3PM JOSH LEE HAMILTON,

5.30PM CHRIS DEL MAR,

8PM DJ OLIVIYUH

BYRON THEATRE 6PM S.A.S.H

BYRON BAY RELAUNCH –

ENZO SIRAGUSA

THE NORTHERN, BYRON

BAY, DAN HANNAFORD

LONE GOAT GALLERY, BYRON

BAY, 5PM EXHIBITION OPENS

– KATHERINE SIMMONDS

‘BODY OF THE VOID’

THREE BLUE DUCKS, EWINGSDALE, MATTIE BARKER

LENNOX HOTEL HOTEL STAGE

8PM THURSDAY JAM NIGHT

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 6PM ADAM

BROWN

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE

HOUSE 7PM CHEEKY CABARET

OCEAN SHORES COUNTRY

CLUB 5.30PM NATHAN KAYE

MULLUMBIMBY EX-SERVICES

CLUB 6.30PM FAULTY TOWERS

BALLINA RSL LEVEL ONE

7PM DRAG QUEEN TRIVIA

CITADEL, MURWILLUMBAH,

7PM HETTY KATE QUARTET

KINGSCLIFF BEACH HOTEL

7PM THE JACKS

FRIDAY 7

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON

BAY, THE RANDALLS

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY,

12PM BLUESFEST BUSKERS

COMPETITION SHOWCASE,

4.30PM DJ REIFLEX, 7PM THE

FUNK TRIO, 8PM DIZZY DAYS

9PM SAMETIME

THE NORTHERN, BYRON

BAY, ANIMAL VENTURA,

6.30PM COSMIC PSYCHOS

THREE BLUE DUCKS, EWINGSDALE, MARK

CHAPMAN

CLUB LENNOX 7PM ISAAC

FRANKHAM

HOTEL BRUNSWICK 7PM EPIC

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE

HOUSE 7PM CHEEKY CABARET

WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 4PM DJ ARUANDA

It’s free to list your gigs in the gig guide. gigs@echo.net.au w: echo.net.au/gig-guide

MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 5PM BALCONY BEATS

– DJ ROB SYDNEY,

8.30PM KRAPPYOKEE WITH JESS

ST JOHN’S SCHOOL

HALL, MULLUMBIMBY,

7.30PM ECSTATIC DANCE

MULLUMBIMBY WITH DJ

R.I.A.

SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, FAVOURITE SON WITH SPECIAL GUESTS

BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK

5PM SAM BUCKLEY

MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES

CLUB 6PM PHIL GUEST

KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS

5PM BLACKBOI

KINGSCLIFF BEACH HOTEL

7PM JJ & THE RADIO SOULS

TWEED NIGHT MARKET

5PM TIN PARLOUR

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 7.15PM DON

MCLEAN 50TH ANNIVERSARY

TOUR

SEAGULLS, TWEED HEADS, 7.30PM LISA HUNT

SATURDAY 8

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON

BAY, THE BILLY GUDGEON

BAND

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY,

1PM BLEXUS, 4.30PM HARRY

NICHOLS, 7PM MICKA SCENE & PACHA MAMMA, 9.30PM DJ

QUENDO

THE NORTHERN, BYRON

BAY, MARK USHER

BYRON BEACHSIDE MAKET

10AM NATTY DOLAIASI

BAND, LUKE BENNETT, TONY & THE THIEF

BYRON TWILIGHT MARKET

5PM LUKE BENNETT

THREE BLUE DUCKS,

EWINGSDALE, FELICITY

LAWLESS

BANGALOW HOTEL

4PM PHANTOM LIMBZ

CLUB LENNOX 7PM TWO

TEARS IN A BUCKET

HOTEL BRUNSWICK

2PM ADRIAN THOMAS

7.30PM JORDAN MAC

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE

HOUSE 2PM LIL’ CHEEKY, 7PM CHEEKY CABARET

WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY, 3.30PM DJ

SLINKY

SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA,

6PM BEN WALSH DUO

BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK

6.30PM YOLAN

ELTHAM HOTEL 7PM GLASS BEAMS

METROPOLE, LISMORE, 8PM DJ

FRXSTY

MARY G’S, LISMORE,

9PM SABOTAGE

MURWILLUMBAH SERVICES

CLUB 6.30PM JORGE PEREIRA

KINGSCLIFF BEACH BOWLS

6.30PM MCKENZIE

KINGSCLIFF BEACH HOTEL

7PM DJ SQWID, 10PM DJ

SABRINA

SEAGULLS, TWEED HEADS,

5PM BRAD BLANC

7PM JIMEOIN – THE CRAIC, 8.30PM THE KEEPERS

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 7.15PM DON

MCLEAN 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

COOLANGATTA HOTEL

8PM BOMBS AWAY

SUNDAY 9

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON

BAY, FELICITY LAWLESS

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON

BAY, HERMITUDE 1PM MOE

PARKER DUO, 4.30PM THE

FERAMONES, 7PM DJ GOODIE

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, MARK USHER

THREE BLUE DUCKS, EWINGSDALE, MARK

CHAPMAN

CLUB LENNOX 3PM BEN

WHITING

HOTEL BRUNSWICK

4PM PACHA MAMMA + DAN

HANNAFORD

BRUNSWICK HEADS PICTURE HOUSE 6PM CHEEKY CABARET

OCEAN SHORES COUNTRY CLUB 4PM TAHLIA MATHESON

MIDDLE PUB, MULLUMBIMBY, 3PM OPEN MIC WITH THE SWAMP CATS

WANDANA BREWING CO., MULLUMBIMBY,

3.30PM BLEXUS

BALLINA RSL BOARDWALK

2.30PM SUNDAY BLUES

SESSION – TROMBONE KELLIE

GANG WITH GUEST DAVE KOLB

SHAWS BAY HOTEL, BALLINA, 3PM SOUL’D

SEAGULLS, TWEED HEADS, 1PM BRAD BLANC

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 7.15PM DON MCLEAN 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

CHINDERAH TAVERN

2.30PM JON J BRADELY

MONDAY 10

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, GUY KACHEL BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 5.30PM ANIMAL VENTURA THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, JASON DELPHIN

TUESDAY 11

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, JON J BRADELY BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 3PM BLADE HOOPER, 6PM JAKE HIL DUO, 8.30PM DJ SUPERNOVA

BYRON THEATRE 2PM NINA’S FAREWELL CELEBRATION, 6.30PM 90S MOVIES TUESDAY – ROMEO AND JULIET

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, MARSHALL OKELL

KULCHA JAM, BYRON BAY,

7PM ECSTATIC DANCE BYRON

BAY WITH DJ NIC KAIN

TWIN TOWNS, TWEED HEADS, THE SHOWROOM 11AM BACK TO THE TIVOLI

WEDNESDAY 12

RAILWAY HOTEL, BYRON BAY, BEN WALSH

BEACH HOTEL, BYRON BAY, 4PM AKOVA, 7.30PM INDIGO MCKEON, 9.30PM DJ

SOPHDEXX

THE NORTHERN, BYRON BAY, MATTHEW ARMITAGE

BANGALOW BOWLO

7.30PM BANGALOW BRACKETS’ OPEN MIC

SESSION 7.30PM EISHAN

ENSEMBLE

THIS EASTER WEEKEND! THURS

Jackson Browne: man of my dreams

I’m in my 60th year – I’m loving it! For example, I love all the ‘old timers’ that I know and love who are coming to Bluesfest, artists who are still going strong I might add – artists who provided the soundtrack for my youth and are now providing the soundtrack for my elder years. But not the same old soundtrack – the new one they recorded last year.

The Angels, The Black Sorrows, Bonnie Raitt, Buddy Guy, Chain, The Doobie Brothers, Elvis Costello, Mavis Staples and Steve Earle are all being prolific into their sixties, seventies and even eighties.

But there’s one artist this year who is like no other…

In all my years on the planet there has only ever been one man that I asked my friends, loudly and often, way back in 1979, if they thought he would like to father my babies? This was even before I started practising how to make babies, and through my entire life since then, even when I had babies, I’ve never said this about another man.

This man, the man of my dreams, the one who would make everything perfect, was Jackson Browne.

When the wonderful Bluesfest folk asked me to send my wishlist for interviews last September, of course Mr Browne was on top of that list. But after I’d sent off my request and I started thinking about the prospect of actually talking to the legend, well … I got a bit anxious, and then my brain got tonguetied, and then I had a panic attack – THEN I got really excited at the prospect, and then I had a little wee – an excited wee, not an oops-that-one-just-slipped-out-becauseI’m-almost-60 wee!

All the young ’uns can bop along to whatever is taking their fancy this week, and will be forgotten the next, a metaphor for the throw-away society we have found ourselves in, but there is something to be said for an artist whose talent, after five or six decades, can still stir you – whose new music still speaks volumes.

Back to my untouchable one – Jackson Browne has an unmistakable voice – even at almost 75, there is something about the tone and quality that touches a little button in your brain. And for some of us, a little button somewhere else, and honestly I am not being crude, there is something in that voice that moves me.

When I first saw Jackson at Bluesfest many (many, many) moons ago, back when it was at the Red Devils, I stood there with my camera limp at my side. I just wept. I’m not even sure why – there was little emotion attached to it, just the knowledge that a mere four metres away was the vessel into which I had cast so much angst, and that now, well, that was that.

Alas, between time differences and schedules (his) and covid (mine) it was never going to work on the phone and let’s be realistic, there is no way I was going to be able keep my mouth in check and not stumble and mumble and sound like I was eating popcorn.

So, Jackson, if you are reading this, I just want you to know that I would have loved to have spoken to you in person – to tell you that the shop is shut and I can’t have your babies any more.

I hope you’re okay with that?

Legends such as Elvis Costello, Mavis Staples and Buddy Guy have got plenty of people excited about Bluesfest ’23, but for entertainment editor, Eve Jeffery there’s one artist this year who is like no other…

IN THIS GUIDE: FULL PLAYING

IN THIS GUIDE: FULL PLAYING

– Eve Jeffery

Jackson Browne, rock legend, dreamboat, plays Bluesfest Saturday 6.30pm at Mojo

I LOVE music

When I wake up in the middle of the night it’s always music to blame, most often an earworm – a song that is just going around and around on repeat.

Sometimes that song is annoying – the theme song for Bananas in Pyjamas – but mostly it’s some awesome thing I just heard.

There are so many exciting earworms I am hoping to catch on the weekend and I have downloaded the Bluesfest app to plan what I want to see.

On Thursday I will definitely catch the Welcome to Country at Crossroads and just stay there to see Nikki Hill. Then I will be front and centre at the Juke Joint for Southern Avenue, then back to the Cross for Spinifex Gum. I’ll be back at the Juke Joint for Larkin Poe (make sure you catch them at least once) then back for Nathaniel Rateliff.

On Friday I plan to see Southern Avenue (again), then get my guitar fix with Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram and Marcus King, and then later Elvis Costello.

Saturday my choice is definitely Hussy Hicks, Allison Russell AND Jackson Browne! As well as Buddy Guy and Femi Kuti.

Sunday I’ll make sure I see Rockwiz, Bobby Alu, Ash Grunwald, and Mavis Staples – oh I LOVE her! And then Trombone Shorty.

On the last day I am heading in early to see Steve ’n’ Seagulls, and the Busking Grommet winner before checking out Yirrmal before Roshani, Xavier Rudd then the Doobie Brothers!

Then it’s a day in bed for me listening to earworms.

PS – I apologise if you can’t get Bananas in Pyjamas out of your head now. Baaaaaaaaa-Nanas in P-jamas...

– Eve Jeffery

Remembering UNCLE ARCHIE

Eve Jeffery

A truly sad day in Australian history was when Uncle Archie Roach left us on 30 July last year.

How we mourn Uncle not only for the music he made but the man he was –a gently spoken voice for Indigenous people with a generous spirit.

Archie and his beloved wife Ruby’s sons, Amos and Eban, have given permission for his name and image to continue to be used ‘so that his legacy will continue to inspire’.

One of those inspirations is The Heartfelt Tribute to Uncle Archie – in association with the Archie Roach Foundation. This wonderful Bluesfest event will see long-time friends and musical collaborators coming together for a special tribute concert to honour the life and legacy of this beloved Gunditjmara and Bundjalung songman through story and song.

Festival Director Peter Noble says the first time he saw The Heartfelt Tribute

to Uncle Archie at the Woodford Folk Festival, there was a standing ovation for this incredible outpouring of love. ‘The whole room was crying,

Bluesfest’s newest koala

it was incredibly emotional, and I am so proud to have this Tribute at Bluesfest.’

Friday at 5.45pm on the Mojo stage.

Bluesfest has a koala management program, the only approved one on a festival event site in New South Wales, run in association with the University of Queensland Koala Research Centre. The program has been running for over ten years now. Our goal has always been to create a disease-free koala population on the Bluesfest site, with some genetic diversity, to produce a thriving healthy group of koalas breeding healthy young ’uns. This is the seventh healthy joey born within the last 12 months; we called her Beth, after Beth Hart. You really can Save the Koala, property by property, and we are very proud to say we are doing it.

– Peter Noble OAM Festival Director

FOOD TRUCK- GRATEFUL COW

DJ - SALVE JORGE FROM 4:00PM

EASTER SATURDAY

ALL DAY FOOD TRUCK GRATEFUL COW

DJ SLINKY FROM 3:30PM

EASTER SUNDAY

ALL DAY FOOD TRUCK - PONYBOY BBQ

LIVE MUSIC - BLEXUS FROM 3:30PM

EASTER MONDAY

ALL DAY FOOD TRUCK SEAVICHE

20 MANNS RD, MULLUMBIMBY wandanabrewingco.com.au

Uncle Archie Roach at the first Boomerang Festival in Byron Bay.

Photo Tree Faerie Peter Noble with Beth the joey.

Doobies!

Trombone Shorty

Mavis Staples

Bluesfest 2023 HIGHLIGHTS

Compiled by Echo entertainment editor, Eve Jeffery

ALLISON RUSSELL

Poet, singer, songwriter, multiinstrumentalist, activist – Allison Russell unpacks her youth in searing detail on her tour de force debut Outside Child. She sings about deliverance and redemption; about the places, the people and realisations that helped her survive and claim her freedom. Outside Child has received three Grammy award nominations, for Best Americana Album, Best American Roots Performance and Best American Roots Song.

ST PAUL & THE BROKEN BONES

Every time I see this mob at Blues it’s always more fun than the last – a fever dream in sonic form, St Paul & The Broken Bones’ new album The Alien Coast represents the most adventurous and original output yet from an ever-evolving musical powerhouse. In a profound shift for the Alabama-bred eightpiece, comprising Paul Janeway (vocals), Jesse Phillips (bass), Browan Lollar (guitar), Kevin Leon (drums), Al Gamble (keyboards), Allen Branstetter (trumpet), Chad Fisher (trombone), and Amari Ansari (saxophone), the band’s fourth full-length album (their first for ATO Records) strays far from the time-bending soul of past work like their 2014 debut, arriving at a convergence of soul and psychedelia, stoner metal and funk. At turns explosive, elegant, and unhinged, their sound makes for a majestic backdrop to St Paul & The Broken Bones’ visceral exploration of the strangest dimensions of the human psyche.

COUNTING CROWS

Counting Crows have enchanted listeners worldwide for more than two decades with their intensely soulful and intricate take on timeless rock and roll. Exploding onto the music scene in 1993 with their multi-platinum breakout album, August and Everything After, the band has gone on to release seven studio albums, selling more than 20 million records worldwide, and is revered as one of the world’s most preeminent live touring rock bands. Over the last 30 years, the masterful songwriting from front man Adam Duritz put the band at No.8 on Billboard Magazine’s 2021 Greatest Of All Time: Adult Alternative 25th Anniversary Chart. The band released their newest record, Butter Miracle, featuring hit single ‘Elevator Boots’ in April of 2021.

VINTAGE TROUBLE

Since forming in 2010, Vintage Trouble have become rock ’n’ roll’s best-kept secret. Distilling swaggering rock, soulful blues, R&B grooves, and pop ambition into a bold and brash brew, the quartet –Ty Taylor (vocals), Nalle Colt (guitar), Rick Barrio Dill (bass), and Richard Danielson (drums) – have logged 3,000 shows across 30 countries on tour with divinities such as The Who, The Rolling Stones, AC/DC, Lenny Kravitz, and Bon Jovi, to name a few. They return to the Bluesfest stage in 2023 after their unforgettable performance in 2019!

STONE WOOD AT BLUESFEST

With room for over 1,000 festival goers, Stone & Wood are bringing the vibe of the Northern Rivers out to the Bluesfest site, with Trev the Troopy, Clyde and a Tinnie bar serving fresh beers across the festival.

Allison Russell

Counting Crows

Vintage Trouble

St Paul & The Broken Bones

BOBBY ALU

Bobby is a local favourite who holds the crowd captive with a fresh, simple sound with tastes of Polynesian ukulele, Pacific beats, catchy songs, thoughtful harmony, and powerful log drumming on a bed of slick style. He’s a home turf lad, we love him, and we think you will too.

DOG TRUMPET

Featuring Reg Mombassa and Peter O’Doherty (original members of Mental As Anything) alongside Bernie Hayes and Jim Elliott from the Cruel Sea, Dog Trumpet is bringing their best to the ‘fest and you can expect to hear songs from Trumpet’s, and the Mentals’, large ‘crowd favourites’ catalogue.

FRANK SULTANA

Frank Sultana’s sound drips with preWW2 mojo, combined with dark, dirty guitar tones and a voice that has the grit and soul of the characters he sings about. This year, Frank won the solo/duo section of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee, among a field of 150 artists worldwide. He is the third Australian to win in the event’s 38-year history.

HUSSY HICKS

Another local act – how we love the Hussys! Straddling the line between folk, blues, country, and roots, Hussy Hicks have earned themselves a mighty reputation. Growing from festival openers to festival favourites, the group now appears at the most significant blues and roots festivals in Australia, the USA and across Europe while selling out their own tours across the three continents.

FOOLS

In the space of three interrupted years, Fools have grown in stature to become one of Australia’s most talked-about proponents of the rock ’n’ roll genre. Healthily under the influence of soul, blues, and Americana, and brimming with originality, the Melbourne-grown 13-piece juggernaut performs with a command of both wildness and intimacy and dedicate themselves to bringing their audiences in on every little moment of onstage joy.

JEROME WILLIAMS

Some people march to the beat of their own drum – Jerome Williams marches to the beat of his own guitar. When Jerome picks up an acoustic guitar, he makes it do things you’ve never heard before. Expect the unexpected as he switches from percussive guitar beats to spitting bars before suddenly throwing in some insane shredding. Kind of like if Drake and Slash had a mildly deranged lovechild. Unashamedly his authentic self, Jerome was put on this Earth to perform. His mission is to make people want to get up and dance… like no one’s watching of course. The more chaos, the better. He does this with a pure rawness and a mashup of rock, hip hop and funk.

19-TWENTY

19-Twenty have been whipping up a frenzy on the festival scene. They are electric. An infectious riff- and groove-based blue-billy-grass-rockin’-roots band, the 19-Twenty lads have been staging their high-energy sonic party nationally, headlining sell-out shows and festivals in all states and territories. Constantly on the road, or in the sky, they have toured seven times around Oz and performed gigs throughout Europe including in Belgium, The Netherlands and Germany. Performing anywhere and everywhere, this straight-up 100 per cent independent act have been blazing throughout Europe and Australia and gaining new music fans/ fiends from their live shows

Fools

Bobby Alu

Jerome Williams

Dog Trumpet

19-Twenty

Hussy Hicks

My apology to Daniel …UH! I mean… Nathaniel Rateliff

Eve Jeffery

It’s been a wonderful run up to the 2023 Bluesfest – the festival folk have been really great lining up awesome artists to be interviewed for our entertainment pages.

If you go to our online edition they are all there: Steve ’n’ Seagulls, The Angels, Ash Grunwald, Felix Riebl, Chain, The Doobie Brothers, Gang of Youths, Jon Stevens, Marcus King, Michael Franti, Nikki Hill, Tierinii Jackson from Southern Avenue (can’t wait to see her – what a bloody firecracker) and my round two with the adorable Steve Earle. The one interview I did, but that you didn’t get to see, was with the really wonderful Nathaniel Rateliff. To be honest, I hadn’t heard of him before the day we spoke, but I did some research before the call –the guy is freakin’ awesome! A huge talent. HUGE! After looking him up and watching some clips I was super excited about chatting with him. In fact, I was so excited I am pretty sure I kept calling him Daniel (WTF!) and to cap off the perfect interview – and it was a really good one, he’s a terrific bloke – after we said our goodbyes and hung up, I looked down to see that my recording hadn’t worked.

D’oh! D’OH! D’OH!! D’OH!!!

So this is my open apology, Nathaniel Rateliff: for getting your name wrong; for not taking notes like a proper journalist*; and for stuffing up the recording.

It’s also my apology to Echo readers because you won’t get to hear from me that Rateliff is probably going to be one of the coolest acts at Bluesfest – he has talent through the roof, his crew are so ‘on point’ it’s actually not funny, and if you miss his show you will literally, not figuratively, kick yourself!

*I actually did take a couple of notes – they look like this:

•It was a squeeze at the Tiny Desk concert on YouTube.

•Being sober can be a challenge – being the only person not drinking can feel weird.

•Third time in Australia

•It’s snowing today at his place – septic system froze. Been a hard winter but he got away to Hawaii for a bit – likes the cold, likes the snow.

•Lineup is the much the same – revolving horn section for a while.

•Solo tour affected by covid, was planning something big.

•Alcohol does not help with communications.

•Therapy has helped him with speaking to the band, communicating ideas about what he wants more clearly.

•Feels inspired by very big things and very small things…

Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats are sure to be a highlight of this year’s Bluesfest.

Photo: snl.fandom.com/wiki/Nathaniel_Rateliff

THU FRI

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BETH HART

Get ready to see the ‘Hart & Soul’ of this Grammynominated powerhouse like you’ve never seen her before, raw and unplugged. Her solo tours in Europe and the United States were performed to sold-out crowds. Beth is riding a creative tidal wave, firing out acclaimed albums, hooking up with the biggest names in music and rocking the house each night with that celebrated burnt-honey voice – the one that launched more than a dozen hits, including ‘LA Song’ and ‘I’ll Take Care of You’ to name a few. Don’t miss the chance to hear the most intimate versions of her soul-drenched songs in this special intimate performance! Beth Hart will be performing solo for the very first time in Australia, as well as in band performances at Bluesfest 2023.

THE BLACK SORROWS

Joe Camilleri and The Black Sorrows are back on the road for a series of huge shows at clubs and festivals around Australia. They’re one of Australia’s most prolific and enduringly popular bands, renowned for their high-energy live shows, musicianship, and infectious, roots-soaked blues rock. They’ve sold more than two million albums to date and won an ARIA Award for Best Group.

BONNIE RAITT

Bonnie Raitt is a singer, songwriter and guitarist whose unique style blends blues, R&B, rock, and pop. After 20 years as a cult favourite, she broke through to the top in the early ’90s with her Grammy-award winning albums, Nick of Time and Luck of the Draw, which featured hits, ‘Something To Talk About’ and ‘I Can’t Make You Love Me’ among others. The ten-time Grammy winner was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000, and Rolling Stone named the slide guitar ace one of the ‘100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time’ and one of the ‘100 Greatest Singers of All Time’.

BUDDY GUY

Is Buddy Guy real? The performances that roll effortlessly out of this fella in his 80s are amazeballs! Bluesfest is honoured to present Buddy Guy in his last Australian show. At age 86, Buddy Guy has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, has influenced rock titans like Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, Gary Clark Jr, John Mayer, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and just about every guitar player who has played the blues, blues rock, and hard rock over the past 70 years.

Buddy Guy has released a steady stream of albums since then and has received eight Grammy Awards and Rolling Stone Magazine has ranked him #23 in its ‘100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time’. Buddy Guy remains a genuine American treasure and one of the final surviving connections to an historic era in the country’s musical evolution.

If you miss this, well what can I say – big mistake. Big! HUGE!

CHRISTONE ‘KINGFISH’ INGRAM

Since the release of Kingfish, his Grammy-nominated 2019 Alligator Records debut, guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram has quickly become the defining blues voice of his generation. Born to a musical family in Clarksdale, Mississippi, he fell in love with music as a small child, initially playing drums and then bass. At a young age, he got his first guitar and quickly soaked up music from Robert Johnson to Lightnin’ Hopkins, from B.B. King to Muddy Waters, from Jimi Hendrix to Prince, but all the while developing his own sound and style. With his eye-popping guitar playing and his reach-out-and-grab-you-by-the-collar vocals, Ingram performs every song with unmatched passion and precision.

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Beth Hart

Bonnie Raitt Buddy Guy ‘Kingfish’ Ingram

The Black Sorrows

ELVIS COSTELLO & THE IMPOSTERS

Elvis Costello began writing songs at the age of thirteen. 2017 marked the 40th anniversary of the release of his first album, My Aim Is True. He is perhaps best known for the songs, ‘Alison’, ‘Pump It Up’, and of course, ‘Everyday I Write The Book’. He has performed worldwide with his bands: The Attractions; His Confederates – which featured two members of Elvis Presley’s TCB Band; and his current group, The Imposters – Steve Nieve, Pete Thomas and Davey Faragher; as well as in solo concerts, most recently his acclaimed solo show, Detour

ERIC GALES

Eric Gales is a blues-rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter from Memphis. As evidenced by his debut album, 1991’s Eric Gales Band, he has an overdriven tone melding hard rock and R&B-infused blues licks that display his distinctly modern approach to the guitar, influenced by Jimi Hendrix.

FEMI KUTI & THE POSITIVE FORCE

The indefatigable Femi Kuti never stops presenting his dynamic and colourful shows with committed political messages, whether from his iconic New Afrika Shrine in Lagos, or from all kinds of world stages and venues. 2021 allowed him to release the double album, Legacy+ containing his latest album Stop the Hate, together with the very first album For(e)ward from his eldest son Made Kuti. Femi can’t stop giving his long shows in front of his Lagos-addicted audiences who always ask for more of the original Afrobeat, invented by his father Fela Kuti, from which Femi has developed his own formula for delivering unforgettable shows.

Playing schedule subject to change

Elvis Costello

Femi Kuti

Eric Gales

GREENSKY BLUEGRASS

For two decades now, Greensky Bluegrass have been building an empire, brick by brick. They are widely known for their dazzling live performances and relentless touring schedule, but that is only the tip of the complex tale of the five musicians that make up Greensky Bluegrass: Anders Beck (dobro), Michael Arlen Bont (banjo), Dave Bruzza (guitar), Mike Devol (upright bass), and Paul Hoffman (mandolin). The five are connected through a deep bond; just as they are seasoned road warriors, they’re a band of brothers who have seen each other through decades of ups and downs, personal and collective highlights, and the moments when life turns it all upside down. These are real people having real experiences. As with traditional bluegrass, they write about their own contemporary day-to-day happenings, emotions, and experiences in the modern world.

JASON ISBELL & THE 400 UNIT

Jason Isbell has established himself as one of the most respected and celebrated songwriters of his generation. Isbell broke through in 2013 with the release of Southeastern. His next two albums, Something More Than Free (2015) and The Nashville Sound (2017), won Grammy Awards for Best Americana Album & Best American Roots Song. Isbell’s song ‘Maybe It’s Time’ was featured in the 2019 reboot of A Star Is Born. His most recent full-length album, Reunions (2020), is a critically-acclaimed collection of ten new songs that showcases an artist at the height of his powers and a band fully charged with creativity and confidence. In October 2021, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit released a special new covers album, Georgia Blue, created to celebrate Georgia’s role in the 2020 election.

KEB’ MO’

With five Grammys, 14 Blues Foundation Awards, and a groundbreaking career spanning nearly 50 years under his belt, Keb’ Mo’ stands as one of the most accomplished and respected artists working in contemporary roots music today. Born and raised in Compton, California, Keb’ got his start working behind the scenes as a guitarist, songwriter, and arranger before breaking out internationally with the release of his 1994 self-titled debut, which earned widespread acclaim for its genre-bending take on old school sounds. In the decades that followed, Keb’ would go on to top the Billboard Blues Chart seven times, perform everywhere from Carnegie Hall to The White House, and collaborate with luminaries like Taj Mahal, Vince Gill, Willie Nelson, Bonnie Raitt, The Chicks, and Lyle Lovett.

Keb’s newest album, Good To Be, weaves together the sounds of his childhood in Compton with the influences of his adopted hometown of Nashville, drawing on country, soul, and blues to craft a heartwarming tapestry that transcends genre and geography as it celebrates the power of love and resilience, growth and gratitude, hope and memory.

KALEO

Since the release of their Gold-certified breakthrough album, 2016’s A/B, Icelandic rock band Kaleo – led by frontman/songwriter JJ Julius Son – has taken their music around the world. The album spawned three hit singles: the Grammy-nominated ‘No Good’, the gold-selling ‘All The Pretty Girls’ and the chart-topping, 2x-platinum-certified ‘Way Down We Go’ which was used in over two dozen television shows from Grey’s Anatomy to Riverdale, leading the No. 1 single to top The Hollywood Reporter’s Top TV Songs chart. After amassing over 1 billion global streams, 39 international certifications, and countless sold-out headline shows from London to Moscow, Kaleo has proven to be a worldwide phenomenon.

JOE BONAMASSA

Blues-rock superstar, Joe Bonamassa, is one of the most celebrated performing musicians of today. A three-time Grammy-nominated artist, Joe recently achieved his 25th No. 1 album on the Billboard Blues Chart with the studio album Time Clocks. He’s only in his mid-40s and has already become a living legend with an astounding multi-genre catalogue of music, which includes over 40 albums to date between studio and live recordings, as well as collaborative albums with his various side projects. A prolific writer who is always on the hunt to expand his eclectic musical horizons, Bonamassa has a limitless work ethic whether it’s in a studio, on the road, or working with other artists to spur new music.

Greensky Bluegrass

Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit

Joe Bonamassa Keb’ Mo’

Kaleo

LACHY DOLEY & THE HORNS OF CONVICTION

Dubbed the Jimi Hendrix of the Hammond Organ, Lachy Doley is Australia’s most celebrated blues-soulrock organ player in the world today. He’s a player who can pump, pamper and occasionally pound the most unbelievable sounds from a keyboard; sounds that are intense, ferocious and sometimes transcendent. He’s continually going viral on Facebook with videos clocking up millions of views, most recently with his version of Hendrix’s ‘Voodoo Child’ played not on guitar, but rather on his extremely rare and unique Whammy Clavinet – get this in front of your face!

LARKIN POE

This act was definitely one of the standouts the last time they played Bluesfest. With their modern interpretation of traditional blues music, the Lovell sisters’ performance is like a breath of fresh air to the blues scene! After a sell-out run in 2019, blues sisters Larkin Poe are back, creating a unique brand of gritty, southern-fried, blues, roots ’n’ roll.

When you know, you know. You know exactly what LP means when she sings. Without the limits of genre, the multi-platinum singer-songwriter, with more than 2 billion streams to her name, has created a powerful sound and devoted following all her own. LP’s YouTube channel currently receives more than 2.4 million views a day and her songs are streamed upwards of 2 million times a day around the world. Her soulful lyrics can reveal an intimate truth in one breath and swaggeringly flip the middle finger the next. Her songs can extend to fans a seductive invitation or deliver a deep sense of purpose that lingers in your thoughts and feelings. Either way, LP has a rare character that consistently relates to audiences without filter or judgment. With each record release she builds on a body of work that is full of complexity, truth and self-discovery.

Lachy Doley

Larkin Poe

MAVIS STAPLES

Oh Mavis – I love you! Mavis Staples is a legend, an icon, and a global national treasure, and no stranger to our shores. With her spectacular 12th studio album and first full-length collaboration with multi-Grammy Award-winner Ben Harper, we welcome the 83-years-young legend back to Australia. Hailed by NPR as ‘one of America’s defining voices of freedom and peace,’ Mavis Staples is the kind of once-in-a-generation artist whose impact on music and culture would be difficult to overstate. She’s both a Blues and a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer; a civil rights icon; a Grammy Awardwinner; a chart-topping soul/gospel/R&B pioneer; a National Arts Awards Lifetime Achievement recipient; and a Kennedy Center honouree. She has blown away countless festivalgoers from Newport Folk to Glastonbury, from Lollapalooza to Bonnaroo and at our own Bluesfest Byron Bay. She performed with The Band at The Last Waltz concert, and graced the airwaves on programs such as Fallon, Colbert, Ellen, Austin City Limits, Jools Holland, she’s performed at the Grammys, and… and!

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LUCINDA WILLIAMS

Three-time Grammy Award winner, Lucinda Williams has been carving her own path for more than three decades now. Born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Williams had been imbued with a ‘culturally rich, economically poor’ worldview. Williams released her first double studio album in 2014, Down Where The Spirit Meets The Bone, followed by the 2016 release of her second double album, The Ghosts of Highway 20. Both albums received overwhelming praise from the media and fans. 2020’s Good Soul Better Angels was a sociopolitical masterpiece, garnering two Grammy nominations as well as features in The New York Times, Rolling Stone, the Los Angeles Times and so much more.

ROCKWIZ LIVE

What started out as a live music trivia quiz show on SBS TV in 2005 has gone on to become a Bluesfest afternoon favourite since it debuted as a live show in 2010. Julia, Brian, Dugald, and the Orkestra always deliver the fun and bring along a swag of guests for some fantastic and unique performances. Brian selects the quiz contestants from the crowd and the best always impress with their nerdy knowledge. The crowd seems to love Julia Zemiro’s razor-sharp wit, and her snappy repartee with Brian Nankervis, as much as singing along to the tunes. And you never know which star from the Bluesfest bill will turn up as a special guest. Get your Bluesfest day off to a great start with Rockwiz Live!

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SPINIFEX GUM

Spinifex Gum has disarmed and uplifted audiences across Australia, bringing together the sound of Marliya, a choir of talented young Indigenous female singers from Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait, led by Lyn Williams, with the music of Felix Riebl and Ollie McGill (The Cat Empire) and choreography by Deborah Brown. Born out of a collaborative trip to the Pilbara and a relationship with the Yindjibarndi community, Spinifex Gum began in 2015 when Marliya of Gondwana Choirs, Riebl and McGill came together to create new music. Since then, Spinifex Gum has toured national festivals with acclaimed singer Emma Donovan and guest appearances by Peter Garrett and Briggs. Part political and part aspirational, Spinifex Gum explores hard-hitting issues of our time, themes of friendship and female empowerment, and celebrates what can be achieved when we come together as one.

TASH SULTANA

Tash Sultana, the gender fluid multiinstrumentalist, singer-songwriter, producer and engineer, has been dubbed one of the hardest-working music exports in Australia. Tash began playing the guitar at three years old after being gifted the instrument by a grandfather. From there Tash began to pick up other instruments such as piano/keyboard/ synth, bass, drums/percussion, beatmaking/sampling, beatboxing, trumpet, saxophone, flute, mandolin, oud, harmonica, lap steel, panpipes, and arranged them into loop style performances along with percussive and finger-tapping-style guitar playing, coinciding with a vocal range stretching five octaves. Tash has since broken attendance records at sold-out global arena tours –accolades rush in faster than there is time to count them and now she is on the way to Bluesfest for Easter.

XAVIER RUDD

Looking back over Xavier Rudd’s stunning career, one could easily ask ‘what is there possibly left to achieve’. Already one of Australian music’s all-time greats, he has touched people’s lives worldwide. He has earned accolades of every kind, Gold and Platinum certification, multiple ARIA nominations, and legions of fans who love him with an inextinguishable passion.

Yet, with each new release, Xavier Rudd continues to surpass expectation and produce his finest work to date. Today, Xavier’s relentless upward arc is among the most astounding success stories of our time. Countless acts have come and gone like fireworks while his campfire steadily grows: a beacon to the kind of music fan who seeks sustenance in a fast-food world.

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April 7th, 7am to late

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Playing schedule subject to change

Xavier Rudd

Tash Sultana

STEVE POLTZ

World-renowned troubadour Steve Poltz returns to Australian shores following a four-year break! People say that Steve seems to glide into town filled with emotion and hilarity. Some people start life with a plan. Not Steve. He opens himself up to the universe in a way most of us will never be loose enough to achieve, and the universe responds with a wink, and a seemingly bottomless well of inspiration, giving him the talent to truly connect with an audience. Over the years, the Nashville-based artist has built a fascinating solo catalogue, earmarked by his debut, One Left Shoe, Dreamhouse, Folksinger, and 2019’s Shine On. When he comes to Blues, he’ll say, as he does every night, ‘This is the best show I’ve ever played’ and maybe it just is. Ultimately, Steve never needed a plan. He’s something of a natural, after all.

BACKSLIDERS

Backsliders are Bluesfest regulars returning for the twentieth time. They have toured the Australian festival circuit for the past 35 years. Dom Turner (guitars and lead vocals), Rob Hirst (drums and vocals) along with Joe Glover (harmonica and vocals) are known for their captivating live shows. The sound is an eclectic mix of blues styles moving from original 21st century blues with Australian themes, to driving hill country and delta style blues with jungle-like rhythms, to Piedmont blues-influenced all-acoustic unplugged treatments of 1920s songs by heroes such as Mississippi Fred McDowell and Robert Johnson, all of which are given the Backsliders’ own unique hybrid-blues treatment.

ERIC STANG

Eric Stang is a world-renowned entertainer who grew up in Chicago. As an actor, singer and pianist, Eric portrayed Jerry Lee Lewis in the Tony-Award winning musical Million Dollar Quartet during its successful runs in Chicago and New York. Eric also performed with Selena Gomez as her pianist and backup singer on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, on Ellen and on The Today Show – and now you get to see him this weekend.

THE BROS. LANDRETH

The Bros. Landreth are a Canadian alternative country and folk music group that blends North American roots music and harmony-heavy soul. Their debut album, Let It Lie, won the Juno Award for Roots & Traditional Album of the Year – Group at the Juno Awards of 2015. The most immersive, emotive record of the Landreths’ career, Come Morning finds brothers Joey and Dave lacing their melody-driven songs with layers of atmospheric synth, organ, and textured guitar – come Easter they are lacing you!

EUGENE HIDEAWAY BRIDGES

Born in New Orleans, Eugene is a nomadic musician living his life on the road travelling from America through Europe, to Australia, with many other stops in-between. A towering man with a huge voice, playing an unparalleled brand of blues, oozing enough genuine charm to light up a small city.

PAOLO NUTINI

After eight long years, Australians will have a chance to see Paolo Nutini, the singer-songwriter often referred to as the superstar in waiting, live in concert at Bluesfest. Touring his 2022 album Last Night In the Bittersweet, Paolo Nutini’s fans have been brought to tears in his spectacular show, which sold out London’s 10,400-seat Alexandra Palace – twice. Son of Italian immigrants, the Scottish born singer-songwriter has a voice with much variation, as you might expect given the juxtaposition of his Scottish drawl with his Italian name and looks. Accolades for Nutini are bountiful and there will be plenty more following his Bluesfest shows.

ECHO DRUDGES’ TIPS

A few Echo drudges are heading to Tyagarah this weekend and have shared who they want to see:

JEFF DAWSON, PHOTOGRAPHER

Spinifex Gum – I caught this incredible choir at Woodford. Amazing! Beautiful voices singing about important issues with great choreography and stunning visual effects.

Buddy Guy – this guy, the energy and charisma of a 20-yearold, good solid blues from a guitar master.

Joe Bonamassa – Joe shreads; soaring guitar, hard and fast, soft and mellifluous – at the same time?? How does he do that?

Elvis costello – because he is Elvis Costello.

Michael Franti – he brings joy, I quite like that.

ANNA, SALES MANAGER

St Paul & The Broken Bones – because they are damn fun!

Femi Kuti – who doesn’t want to dance to Afrobeat?

Beck – because I’ve never seen him and I think he will be amazing.

SIMON, GENERAL MANAGER

Albo – I missed him at the last Bluesfest.

TIRZA, ARTIST

Spinifex Gum – ’cause I have been into them for ages. LP – because I want to see what all the fuss is about.

Paulo Nutini and Elvis Costello, because they are them.

DAVID, JOURNALIST / PHOTOGRAPHER

Lucinda Williams – hope she doesn’t lose her voice this year!

Jackson Browne – still sounding great and turning into more of an environmental activist as he gets older.

Spinifex Gum – exciting young choir.

Elvis Costello – what a songwriter, and always special live.

Buddy Guy – last chance to see the master at work.

Steve Poltz

The Bros. Landreth

Erixc Stang

Backsliders

Paolo Nutini

TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE

Trombone Shorty, when prowling a stage with his band, Orleans Avenue, he taps into a raw power to deliver explosive performances that blur the lines between funk, soul, R&B, and psychedelic rock. The musicianship is muscular, mixing pop glam with hip-hop swagger and Big Easy second line abandon. As he and his band balance technical virtuosity and emotional release in equal measure, everyone in earshot will celebrate music’s primal power. Born Troy Andrews, Trombone Shorty got his start (and nickname) at age four, making his first public appearance at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival with Bo Diddley; at six, he was leading his own band; and by 18, Lenny Kravitz hired him for his band. Shorty’s far more than just a horn player, though. He is an undeniable star with magnetic charisma, a natural-born showman who can command an audience like few others can.

YIRRMAL

Yirrmal is the powerful voice of First Nations storytelling that we’re in awe of, and his singer-songwriter capabilities are a testament to his passionate outlook and contribution to his land and his ancestry. Through his unapologetic and authentic means of personal storytelling, Yirrmal takes us on a journey of joy, sadness, and personal musings. The rising star from the Rirratjingu clan in the remote North East Arnhem Land community of Yirrkala evokes thought-provoking performances in captivating ways that make us grateful for the land we walk on and the people and beauty we’re surrounded by.

BUD ROKESKY

Bud Rokesky has spent the last few years behind the wheel, mostly in solitude, seeking out stories that dwell in the deepest parts of the soul. A native of the Sunshine Coast hinterland, Bud has performed at festivals such as Groundwater Country Music Festival, Gympie Music Muster and Woodford Folk Festival, as well as gigs at The Old Museum Building, Lights On The Hill Memorial and the Nightquarter main stage.

Yirrmal

Bud Rokesky

Trombone Shorty

BUTTERED

A few things come to mind when you think of the word ‘buttered’; yellow, silky, smooth, soft. All of which are synonymous with both the look and sound of our new favourite Gold Coast duo – Buttered. Buttered is Scott Dalton and Jackson James Smith and a whole lot of blond hair. The duo manifests a unique sound that has a sprinkle of soul, a dash of jazz, served with a side of blues. This is only the beginning of the journey for Buttered, as their musical adventure is an adaptation of eight years of friendship – a clear indication of where their seamless synchronicity and creative energy comes from. In early 2022 Buttered won the Bluesfest Busking Competition at the Byron Beach Hotel which secured them a spot on the main stage at Bluesfest Byron Bay 2022 and also for 2023.

CLARENCE BEKKER BAND

Clarence Bekker has the gift of touching the soul of whoever listens to him. Through his amazing voice and energised spirit, he captivates any audience from head to toe. No one can remain unmoved by its magnetism. His extensive career has led him to achieve numerous successes under the pseudonym CB Milton, in addition he has been the lead voice of internationally-renowned groups such as Swinging Soul Machine, 08001, and Playing For Change.

COTERIE

Perth band of brothers Coterie are one of the fastest-growing acts in ‘ANZ’ right now. They officially formed in 2019 after 15 years of garage jams, and the surf-rock-roots band, whose first album debuted at #4 in Aus and #1 in NZ, boast over 600,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. They are rapidly building a reputation as the best live band on either side of the Tasman!

DAMI IM

Beginning her musical journey as a virtuoso pianist, Dami has been renowned for her emotive and powerful vocals since capturing our hearts when she won The X Factor Australia. She went on to become ‘Eurovision royalty’ in 2016 when she earned the highest score ever achieved by an Australian entry with her smash hit cover of ‘Sound of Silence’ charting in 38 countries across the globe. Dami’s self-titled album debuted at #1 on the charts and went on to be a platinum seller. She has released a further four studio albums, which all have been top-ten charting albums.

LISA HUNT

Lisa has been playing shows locally for years and we just love her. Lisa began singing in that great African-American tradition, the gospel church, which laid the foundation of her soulful singing style. For the last few years she has been presenting the Rhythm and Blues Retrospective ‘Forever Soul’ and the soul train will be stopping at the Bluesfest station – get on board!

DANIEL CHAMPAGNE

He has been described as ‘the finest guitar player of this generation’ and ‘a performer that must be seen to be believed’. Now, on the back of sold-out shows worldwide, the young Australian virtuoso brings his tour home with a brandnew album! Daniel Champagne lives and breathes music. He is passionate about spreading it around the world. After 15 years on the road, he is now regarded as a leading light in acoustic music with a firm reputation for dropping jaws, making crowds buzz, and breaking guitars wherever he goes!

FRANK TURNER

Frank Turner is one of the UK’s most successful artists. He’s released nine studio albums in his 17-year solo career. Since playing his first solo gig in 2004, Frank has played almost 2,700 shows all over the world. His biggest UK headline shows include London’s O2 Arena and the world-famous Wembley Arena. He has performed at almost every UK venue imaginable, from tiny clubs to stadiums and was even chosen by Danny Boyle to perform at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games. Internationally, Frank has played headline shows on all continents, with a big following across Europe and the USA.

ELECTRIC CADILLAC

Electric Cadillac is an Indonesian blues-rock band, based in Jakarta, consisting of Kongko (guitarist/vocalist), Handy Salim (drums), Angga (bass) and Ade Irawan (keyboards). Their sound is a hybrid of blues and Chicago blues, mixed with soul, funk and energised rock, combining Kongko’s blues guitar playing (traditional blues with a hot rockin’ Texas tone) and his powerful voice (one that you won’t forget for your entire life!). The deep blues and jazz piano of Ade Irawan can bring you into another dimension, and the groovy basslines of Angga will make your body shake for the whole show, while the beat-and-groove master of swing, shuffle and fusion, Handy Salim, will keep the whole lot tightly together.

RAY BEADLE STAX OF BLUES

Ray is back on the road with a powerhouse lineup featuring Ray Beadle (guitar, vocals), Adam Pringle (guitar), Ben Edwards (bass) and George Brugmans (drums). Ray and his band have become a favourite amongst Australian blues and music fans. An exhilarating guitarist, an enthralling singer-songwriter, and an extremely talented performer, Ray was awarded Best Album, Best Song, and Best Male Artist in the Chain Blues Awards. Ray Beadle is the genuine article, his music comes from deep in the heart and soul, stirring emotions in people with his guitar genius. Ray’s music is rich with a deep history of the Blues.

SCAN TO BROWSE OR CALL INTO VALIANT MUSIC, BRUNSWICK HEADS OVER EASTER.

Clarence Bekker Band Coterie Lisa Hunt Elecric Cadillac

Buttered Daniel Champagne Frank Turner Ray Beadle Dami Im

ROSHANI

Hailed as the ‘Breakthrough Artist’ of last year’s Bluesfest, Roshani is a star on the rise. Born into a musical family in Sri Lanka, at six weeks of age she was adopted and grew up in Tamworth, where she had the opportunity to nurture her gift. She developed her one-woman show while living in her van, busking on the streets and travelling wherever the wind took her. A genre-blurring artist, Roshani moves seamlessly from blues powerhouse to soul-drenched torch singer, from folk balladeer to electro-house diva. She builds her sounds using a range of foot pedals, loop stations, guitars, foot percussion, synths, harmonica and lush harmonies to create a truly unique musical experience.

ROUND MOUNTAIN GIRLS

It’s been well over a decade since a congregation of part-time musos got together in a shed on Round Mountain in the most northern part of NSW. Hundreds of shows on, and they’ve simply become one of the most engaging live acts in Australia. RMG have opened for the Zac Brown Band, Santana, Tim McGraw and Brad Paisley, toured the UK (twice) and made friends around the world. They excel in spreading the love wherever they go.

If Mumford and Sons, The Pogues and Metallica had a three-way lovechild it would be a Round Mountain Girls. Coined in the press as the ‘finest purveyors of Celtabillypunkfolkrootsgrasscountry in the southern hemisphere’, they are capable of taking you to places you didn’t know existed.

For a band that got together with absolutely zero expectations other than a weekly jam, they have punched way above their collective weight, but when you see them play live and witness the raw energy and joy they bring to an audience, it’s all too easy to understand why.

BECK

Musical genius Beck returns to Australia and will grace the stage for the first time ever at Bluesfest 2023. As the title of his most recent album Hyperspace might imply, eight-time Grammywinner Beck has travelled light years from his emergence as a reluctant generational spokesperson when ‘Loser’ exploded from a rejected 1992 demo into a ubiquitous 1994 smash. In the decades since, Beck’s singular career has seen him explore all genres and eras of music, blurring boundaries and blazing a path into the future while foraging through the past. Beck has been delving deep into his acoustic roots, playing intimate and unique one-man shows highlighting the pure songcraft of his standards and rarities throughout and now he’s headed for the Bluesfest stage.

Beck Roshani

Mungo MacCallum’s Crossword #485

Alcohol and our endless soma

We are living in a Brave New World, and alcohol is our ‘soma’. Because the way to maintain a corrupt and broken system is to make people avoid reality.

Cryptic Clues

ACROSS

1. Surprises in highway faculty (6)

5. To one flat interval? (8)

9. A way to escape a spider? (8)

10. Peril in wild garden (6)

11. Eviscerate some – be wild, ragged (10)

13. Whirlpool where horse lost its head (4)

14. Smack back friends (4)

15. Faithful go mad – shrug it aside (5,2,3)

18. Solid ground, more convincing after report of panic (5,5)

20. Complain about the fish (4)

21. Peaceful state with a thousand (4)

23. Marihuana and plenty of sex for local activists (10)

25. Bird is a savage raptor (6)

26. Well, it’s a near disaster (8)

28. Buried in shit, they say (8)

29. Revolutionary to see midnight flight (3-3)

DOWN

2. Finish an emitter badly (9)

3. Keep control concerning media (7)

4. State circle takes the biscuit (3)

5. Good man, but inexperienced, makes hay (5)

6. Shade for confused people (11)

7. Touching sunbather? (7)

8. Eternal O (2,3)

12. ‘Drunken snapper,’ declared Spooner of the Spaniard in the arena (11)

16. Turn article right for the union of Egypt and Syria (1,1,1)

17. Eve of Melania (5,4)

19. Sorrow about code (7)

20. Went over and blessed yourself (7)

22. A profit – encore! (5)

24. Hospital beds – a prize! (5)

27. Sailor’s pitch (3)

Quick Clues ACROSS

1. Commences (6)

5. A half step in Western music (8)

9. Hatchway; hinged panel (8)

10. Jeopardy (6)

11. Gut (10)

13. Vortex (4)

14. Mates (4)

15. Treat as unimportant by joking (5,2,3)

18. Dry land (5,5)

20. Grumble (4)

21. Serene (4)

23. Community-based (10)

25. Imitate (6)

26. Underground water flow (8)

28. Laid to rest (8)

29. Can be the result of conjunctivitis! (3,3)

DOWN

2. Abort (9)

3. Subdue (7)

4. Australian biscuit (3)

5. It broke the camel’s back! (5)

6. Befuddled people (11)

7. Digression (7)

8. Limitless (2,3)

12. Matador (11)

16. United Arab Republic (1,1,1)

17. US president’s wife (5,4)

19. Contrition (7)

20. Hybridised (7)

22. Once more (5)

24. Grant (5)

27. Besmirch (3)

Last week’s solution #484

EMPOWERINGIRAN IWANRNN ISOLATEDESTATE TEEAEH CRAVENNOTARIES IITSEM CARELESSNESS

LWLATO FOOTSOLDIERS MINING

TONNAGESSIGNAL RDATWN

COGENTEYESHADE SRERAAI HEMSDISTRESSED

STARS

BY LILITH

A Sun/Jupiter/Chiron triad in fiery Aries, plus a Venus/Mercury/ Uranus trinity in earthy Taurus suggest a hot time for this week’s earthlings...

I stopped drinking. It was nine months ago. I feel great. Less anxious. Happier. I have more energy. I sleep better. I am more present in my relationships. I ask questions and listen rather than talk over the top of other people. I have lost weight. My skin looks good. In fact people ask me all the time ‘What have you done?’ Like there’s some magic answer. It’s not what I have done, it’s what I have stopped doing.

The question I get asked all the time is, ‘Do you miss it?’.

The answer is no, not at all. Not one bit. I know when I am asked that question they want to know what it’s like to be ‘on the outside’ – to be the weirdo on water at a social gathering. What it’s like to have to really feel into who I am, every minute of the day; to be tuned in to the world 24/7 without taking the option to obliterate myself and tune out. Do I miss drinking? No. I don’t. Because it’s a big fat lie. Alcohol is a poison. There is no such thing as a safe level of consumption. Not even one or two drinks a day. Alcohol is a toxin that kills cells, such as microorganisms, so it’s why we use it to preserve food and sterilise skin, or needles. We use bleach for something similar. I wonder if I stopped drinking bleach would people ask me ‘Do you miss it?’.

It’s crazy how alcohol has been marketed with this idea of ‘moderation’. Big Alcohol has told everyone there is such a thing as a safe level of drinking. The legal limit of blood alcohol (BAC) to be safe to drive with is 0.05 per cent. i.e.one part of alcohol for every 2000 parts blood. At 0.30 per cent BAC, you can die. That doesn’t feel very safe to me.

ARIES: Taskmaster Saturn leaving Aries’ communal sector for a threeyear retreat in your introspective zone issues a formal invitation to ease off the throttle. This cycle slowly and steadily shifts your priorities, while teaching you the practical magic of working the Law of Attraction so you don’t need to chase anything or anyone any more – deal?

TAURUS: April’s ardent energetics are counterbalanced by steady, sensual Venus, and Mercury at its most practical, both happily aligned in your sign till midmonth – a planetary conjunction that strongly recommends taking care of as much business as possible while the going’s good, before Mercury gears down into slow-mo on 20 April.

GEMINI: Your planet boss Mercury has this week’s wisest celestial advice, and that is to ‘chill’. To deal diplomatically with interpersonal issues, then chill a bit more. To ask questions, rather than making assumptions. To not believe everything you hear, including what you tell yourself, and finally, to remember to ‘chill’.

Alcohol leads to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and liver disease. It can give you cancer of the breast, mouth, throat, oesophagus, voice box, liver, colon and rectum. It weakens the immune system and increases your chance of getting sick. It can make you more prone to dementia. And remember why we drink. We drink to forget. It’s why people with trauma are so vulnerable to alcohol addiction. Forgetting is not a solution. Societal change is always better than alcohol. Being happy is way better than booze. Being at peace is better than being on the piss.

Alcohol hurts us. There is a reciprocal relationship between alcohol use and violence. Studies have shown the more a person drinks the more severe their violence can become. Alcohol also interferes with consent for sex. Studies have shown that about half of sexual assaults involve alcohol. So have another drink!

Alcohol is the author of bad choices. Drink driving is the cause of 30 per cent of road fatalities in Australia. I know, my own father died drunk at the wheel. He also assaulted my mother when he was drunk. But that didn’t stop me drinking. It was his problem. Not alcohol. He was a problem drinker. Alcohol was okay. He was not.

CANCER: This week’s most restorative date is 7 April full moon offering its lunar lift to balance your emotional seesaw. Long-term-wise, Saturn is taking you global for the next three years; extending your reach, relocating your home base and/ or initiating an adventurous travel program. When to start visioning your next phase of operation? Now!

LEO: In your partnership zone for the past three years, Saturn turned relationships into mirrors. For the coming three years, Saturn reframes its teachings so you can apply those learning curves to whatever comes up. This protracted transit will strengthen your resolve to nurture the kind of committed and reciprocal relationships that can go the distance.

VIRGO: Saturn tidying up your relationship zone for the next three years helps you cut bait on something that’s been going nowhere for way too long, to reframe obstacles and ‘pain points’ as opportunities. Not always fun in the moment, this growth spurt is leading you towards your strongest, smartest and most successful self.

LIBRA: The zodiac’s month of fresh starts kicks off with 7 April annual full moon in Libra offering the year’s best lunar opportunity for relationship rebalancing and partnership pivots, not to mention your personal cue to realign whatever may have strayed out of synch lately. Might a discussion of different love languages help restore equilibrium?

SCORPIO: This week’s main event for Scorpios is April 7 full moon in the sign of partnerships and your personal astrozone of final cycles. This lunation is the Scorpio tribe’s annual portal for analysing and refining your interactions with others, and offers a wealth of work experience, most intensely during weekend Scorpio moon.

SAGITTARIUS: People we’re drawn to, along with those we don’t like or disagree with, all tell us something about our own traits and values. Are there any recurring patterns in the kind of people you attract? What do your relationships say about you? This feisty week of sizzling interactions poses some interesting questions...

So when I was 15 I started drinking. I remember my first drink. There was this moment when the legacy of violence and death made me feel frightened. But I had a sip. It was vodka. It burnt. It was disgusting. But then I felt warm and fuzzy… and I drank until I vomited. Because that’s what you do. Drinking is an accepted social norm. You never have to explain to people why you drink. It’s when you stop drinking that you are constantly explaining why you don’t. Why is that?

You know why I don’t drink anymore? Because it’s poison. Because I don’t want to tune out, I want to be present. I want to be available. I want to be here. I want to listen to you. I want to turn up.

Alcohol is truly having its ‘tobacco moment’. It’s the biggest conspiracy of all, and it’s in plain sight. We’ve all been sedating ourselves for centuries. We are living in a Brave New World, and alcohol is our ‘soma’. Because the way to maintain a corrupt and broken system is to make people avoid reality. And that is what booze does best. So, no, after nine months of not drinking, I don’t miss it at all. Quite the contrary, I have finally woken up.

CAPRICORN: April’s astrological advice is to take your time in considering facts, strategies and possible consequences at this historic time of financial volatility. Then when you’re good and ready, ‘slow and steady’ is the mantra of this week’s Mercury, which says don’t let yourself be pressured into rushed decisions.

AQUARIUS: A cool head and calm heart will build better bridges this month, so if discussions heat up (and some will) take a breather before attempting to reach resolution. Tune in to your own harmonic frequency, that internal anchorage which guides you to make the world a better and fairer place.

PISCES: Captain Saturn boarding the good ship Pisces for its threeyear transit pressures everyone to step up their spiritual game. The cosmic drill sergeant visiting your sign is truly a big deal cycle about growing, stretching and maturing. Yes, some days it’ll feel like boot camp, but trust that you’ll feel good afterwards.

ARIES THE RAM

MANDY NOLAN’S

Good Taste

BYRON BAY

KARKALLA

Byron Bay

Native Indigenous Restaurant

Cnr of Bay Lane & Fletcher St, Byron Bay

5614 8656

Barrio Eatery & Bar

1 Porter Street, North Byron

Mon–Tues: 7am–3pm

Wed–Sat: 7am–10pm

www.barriobyronbay.com.au

@barriobyronbay 0411 323 165

Wahlburgers

Byron Bay

style burger restaurant & sports bar Upstairs at Mercato on Byron, Jonson Street.

North Byron Liquor Merchants

61 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay Ph 6685 6500

www.northbyronhotel.com.au

Open 10am–8pm daily

No Bones Vegan Kitchen & Bar.

11 Fletcher Street 0481 148 007

Open 7 nights from 5pm

Loft Byron Bay

4 Jonson Street, Byron Bay 6680 9183

Book online: www.loftbyronbay.com.au

The Italian Byron Bay

21, 108 Jonson St, Byron Bay

Open Monday to Saturday 5.30pm to late 5633 1216 www.theitalianbyronbay.com

Legend Pizza

Serving Byron Bay for 30 years. Open 7 days. Delivery from Suffolk to Ewingsdale. 2/3 Marvell Street, Byron Bay 6685 5700 www.legendpizza.com.au

Main Street

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner. Menu, more details –@mainstreet_burgerbar

Jonson Street 6680 8832

Success Thai

Open Lunch Wed–Fri 12–2.30pm. Dinner Mon–Sat 5–8pm. Closed Sunday 3/31 Lawson St, Byron Bay www.facebook.com/ pages/Success-ThaiFood/237359826303469

Food with history, story & connection

DINNER, THURSDAY–MONDAY

Early sitting from 5pm | Second sitting from 7.30pm Bookings highly recommended, via our website www.karkalla.com.au | @karkallabyronbay

For exclusive events & catering please contact us via our website.

Barrio brings together the local community in a relaxed environment for all-day dining.

The wood-fired oven and open-flame grill is the heart of the restaurant. Keep an eye on socials for daily specials.

Now open for Sunday lunch from 11.30am–3pm

American & local sports played live Family Offer Buy 1 kids meal, get 1 free. $8 after 8 $8 drinks from 8pm Thur–Sun. Live music Fri–Sun.

9pm daily – dine-in or takeaway.

‘Byron’s boutique bottle shop’

Natural wine

Craft Beer

Local Spirits Specialty Tequila for the ages Wedding & event liquor catering

HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY 5–6PM

Local DJ – Friday & Saturday nights, from 6pm

$12 Margarita / Lychee Martini

$8 Tap Beers / $7 Natural Wines Book online via website nobonesbyronbay.com.au

#BRUSSELSNOTBEEF

Signature cocktails, and casual dining with ocean views.

Happy Hour | Daily from 4–6pm $6 Loft beer or wine, $10 Aperol Spritz, $14 Margarita & $2.50 fresh oysters Espresso Martini Nights | Every day 9pm – close

2 for $25 Classic Espresso Martini. Open weekdays from 4pm and weekends from noon

The Italian Byron Bay provides a bustling, atmospheric restaurant, dishing up contemporary inspired Italian cuisine and some of Byron’s finest cocktails and wines.

OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY. BOOKINGS CAN BE MADE BY PHONE OR THROUGH OUR WEBSITE. WALK-INS VERY WELCOME.

Byron’s Freshest Pizza

Order online and join our loyalty program. Catering for up to 100 people lunch and dinner. BYO

Locally owned and operated. Scan code for menu.

Open for takeaway daily, 12 midday until dinner.

Menu and more details @mainstreet_burgerbar

‘Make a meal of it’ Add chips and a drink, just $5.

All your favourites, every lunch and dinner. Experienced Thai chefs cooking fresh, delicious Thai food for you. BYO only.

Welcome for lunch, dinner and takeaway. Menus available on Facebook.

The Rocks

Brunch

6.30am–2pm, every day

16 Lawson St, Byron Bay

6685 7663

Menus at therocksbyronbay.com.au

@therocksbyronbay

QUARTZ GALLERY

Thursday, Friday, Saturday 12pm – 10pm

Upstairs at Mercato, above Woolworths, 108 – 114

Jonson St. Byron Bay

Insta – @thequartzgallery

Web – quartzgallery.com.au

BANGALOW

Eateries Guide

The Rocks

We have a range of freshly sourced dishes, Reverence coffee, and hand-made juices and smoothies at locals prices. Fully licensed, all-day brunch and happy hour from 11am. Check out our new dishes on Instagram!

Crystals and cocktails, tapas and wine

In the heart of Byron Bay this crystal gallery and cocktail lounge is a stunning visual experience and a taste sensation not to be missed. Sit amongst magnificent crystals from all over the world while sipping on crystal infused cocktails. We also offer delicious vegan tapas by No Bones, an eclectic wine list, an event space, and a view of the Byron Bay lighthouse.

Bangalow Bread Co.

12 Byron St, Bangalow 6am–3pm weekdays. 7am–2pm weekends. 6687 1209 www.bangalowbread.co info@bangalowbread.co

MULLUMBIMBY Yaman

Mullumbimby 62 Stuart St, Mullumbimby 6684 3778 www.yamanmullumbimby.com.au

Open 7 days from 9am–8pm Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

The Empire 20 Burringbar St, Mullum 6684 2306

Open for brunch and lunch

FB/Insta: EmpireMullum empiremullum.com.au Online orders: mryum.com/theempire

NEWRYBAR Harvest

18–22 Old Pacific Highway Newrybar NSW 2479 02 6687 2644 www.harvest.com.au @harvestnewrybar

No Bones, Little vegan

Stone baked sourdough, hand rolled pastries, small batch pies, house made cakes. Your local artisan bakery, specialising in all things sourdough. Serving Old Quarter coffee along with freshly made sandwiches using our own sourdough bread, hand rolled pastries, award winning pies and a variety of house made cakes.

Coffee, malawach rolls, pita pockets, falafel, traditional Yemenite spices and all your favourites, always freshly made. Drop in for an authentic atmosphere. Dine-in or takeaway.

Something for all tastes, from epic burgers to vegan delights. Enjoy delectable treats and good vibes at this Mullum icon. Order and pay online! Scan the QR view menu and order online. Takeaway is available on the whole menu. Phone orders also welcome.

COFFEE CART 7 days | 6.30am–3.00pm RESTAURANT Lunch | Wed–Sun | 12–2.30pm Dinner | Fri & Sat | 5.30–8.30pm DELI 7 days | 7.30am–3.30pm

NO BONES OCEAN SHORES

$5 TACO TUESDAY every tuesday from midday til 8pm HAPPY HOUR 5–6PM $12 COCKTAILS / $7 WINE / $6 BEER Order online via our website noboneslittle.com

CATERING

CELEBRATIONS BY LIZ JACKSON

Celebrations

Cakes by Liz Jackson

E: lizzijjackson@gmail.com

P: 0414 895 441

GLUTEN FREE AND SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS CATERED FOR

BANGALOW BREAD CO.

BYRON BAY continued

OCEAN SHORES

QUARTZ GALLERY

Good Life

Nose-to-tail beef celebration

After the success of last year’s sold-out Nose-To-Tail Beef Celebration event, Frida’s Field are doing it again over the last weekend in April! A homage to their holistically-reared AngusWagyu cattle, the event showcases all parts of the animal to honour their life. Experience the superior quality of holistically reared beef, and demonstrate how minimising food waste can be a true gastronomic treat. This special event will appeal to dedicated foodies and carnivores with an interest in regenerative farming. There will be an entirely new menu, so guests who enjoyed last year’s event, as well as those who missed out, will be able to experience a whole new range of creative nose-to-tail beef dishes.

The event will kick off on Friday, 28 April with an interactive Beef Masterclass run by Head Chef, Ally Waddell, two-time winner of the SMH Good Food Guide One Hat Award – including a recently awarded 2023 Hat for Frida’s Field. In this exclusive workshop, limited to just 20 guests, Chef Ally will demonstrate how to perfectly prepare different cuts of beef using a range of cooking

techniques such as curing, wood-firing, smoking, braising and rendering. Students will learn about the benefits of dry-aging beef as well as techniques for doing it successfully at home. And finally, how to create, and pair beef with, a range of flavour-enhancing condiments made from scratch. Students will enjoy a stroll around the paddocks to see the herd in action and learn how holistically reared beef and pasture diversification improves the organic matter in soils and actively sequesters carbon from the atmosphere.

The Saturday and Sunday following the workshop will demonstrate nose-to-tail dining

Pure Melt: Decadent and healthy chocolate?

Victoria Cosford

They’re her strongest seller, and for Easter, Sarah Wheeler is turning her LoveBites into Easter eggs. As if Easter isn’t pretty much her busiest time of the year anyway, I mean – chocolate!

at its finest with a five-course long lunch on each day featuring Frida’s Field’s own Angus-Wagyu beef to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace over 3–4 hours. From cured brisket and short-rib beef bacon to braised shin and smoked beef fat caramel, each dish will demonstrate the incredible flavours and textures of the whole beast. The experience can be further enhanced with paired beverages curated by our Australian Wine List of The Year goblet-winning sommelier, Moira Waterfall.

hello@fridasfield.com

www.fridasfield.com

@fridas.field

76 Booyong Road, Nashua.

Sarah’s chocolate, for those (surely few) unfamiliar with the vibrantly colourful packaging on a chocolate-coloured background that has been a fixture at Mullumbimby’s farmers market for about twelve years now, is not only gorgeously more-ish but also utterly devoid of anything remotely harmful to health. In short, it’s a health food, cunningly disguised as a decadent sweet.

It all came about when Sarah, chronically tired, was recommended the paleo diet by her doctor and advised to consume 50 grams of 85 per cent cacao chocolate per day. ‘Everything improved healthwise’, she tells me – but just as importantly, it set her on a quest to devise her own chocolate, to create an organic product that was cane sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan. And her business was born, because not only did she succeed in making

Quartz – Crystal Gallery and Cocktail Lounge

S. Haslam

Only in Byron will you find such a unique experience; a genuinely dedicated crystal gallery integrated with a luscious cocktail lounge. It’s like a luxe cosmic cave in the centre of Byron.

The room itself is painted black but doesn’t feel dark as it glows with quite outstandingly illuminated crystal pieces. There are plinths that run along the centre of the lounge with substantially sized, gorgeous, crystalline formations, and on the side walls are display units that frame the crystals like art works (which they are) and cabinets with other crystals and jewellery that are luminous in the space. There are comfortable, backed, high chairs and tables along the side and luxurious velvet lounge chairs and low tables nearer to the bar. As well there is seating on a small balcony that overlooks Jonson Street and the salmon-coloured sunset sky.

You can just browse the gallery or you can settle in amongst the crystals, soak up their vibrations, and order a refreshment. There are delicious crystal-infused mocktails, and cocktails, imbued with crystal elixirs, from Herkimer Diamond

Martinis to spicy Citrine infused Margheritas, (an amethyst-andlavender infused creation) – and more. If you are not drinking alcohol, I think you’ll be delighted with the mocktails, the best I’ve tasted. I tried two different ones. As well, there is a very good wine list with Antipodean and European wines, French Champagne, and some petillant au naturel selections.

There is a great little bar menu (by No Bones, so it tastes sensational but is plant-based), which includes shitake mushroom and truffle cognac pâté with organic baguette; and Blue Cheese with Byron Bay seeded crackers, rosemary, walnuts and pear. The Patatas Bravas was very good, served hot with a crunch on the outside and soft on the inside, topped with two tasty dressings, it went down a treat.

There are a couple of lovely desserts; the Ferrero chocolate ganache, hazelnut shard on a chocolate soil with hazelnut ice-cream; or Key Lime Pie, macadamia, finger lime, cream and toasted coconut.

The Quartz Gallery’s crystal range has been carefully selected from countries all over the globe and includes small crystal treasures to very large breathtakingly beautiful decorator pieces. Magnificent crystals with large clusters and cathedrals grace the centre of the room, and medium and smaller ones glow in cabinets, each with their own space so you can feel their energy. Some eye-catchers were a large Amethyst cluster sphere, a large Malachite Stalagmite and a stunning pyrite tower. There is also unique crystal jewellery, crystal artwork, and many mineral specimens.

The Quartz Gallery is also an events venue for hire, the space can literally transform before

a chocolate that’s positively wholesome, she managed to make one that tasted every bit as luscious as those ‘sinful’ ones we all try to steer clear of, usually unsuccessfully. Her chocolate is never heated over 45˚C, so all its antioxidants, vitamins and minerals remain intact.

Since then she’s broadened the range to include drinking chocolate (in pure cacao, mint, and ginger and turmeric) and ‘Sticky Chai’, which she also dispenses as hot and iced drinks from her stall – and of course

the LoveBites, heart-shaped mouthfuls of almonds and coconut sugar and chia seeds, and naturally her own special PureMelt chocolate. She’d like to keep expanding, although ‘in a measured way’, she says, especially in terms of wholesale and online. And yes, she still eats chocolate most days!

PureMelt is at New Brighton Farmers Market for the Easter holidays and Mullumbimby Farmers Market every Friday from 7–11am.

your very eyes to suit any function, from celebrations to sound healings to creative exhibitions, product launches and the like.

This is a truly one of a kind experience, where you can surround yourself with crystals, imbibe the crystals, and even take one home if it calls to you. This rare specimen of a space is a little tucked away, above the entrance to the car park of the Mercato complex, but worth the searching out to find this hidden gem.

Quartz Gallery and Cocktail Lounge

Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 12–10pm Mercato on Byron Level 1, 108-114 Jonson St Byron Bay.

crystal elixirs, from and The Patatas Bra was very

Sarah Wheeler: Decadent Easter eggs can be a paleo-diet health food!

Sensational family home

This fantastic home features generous, open plan, living areas, high ceilings and bamboo floors. Dining space open to an expansive deck with sunken jacuzzi.

- ‘Parents’ wing’ with main bedroom, courtyard, beautifully appointed ensuite bathroom plus separate gym.

- ‘Kids’ wing’ with rumpus/entertainment room, main bathroom and 3 bedrooms + guest bedroom and ensuite.

- Additional separate teenagers/parents’ retreat with own bathroom.

- Airconditioning throughout.

- Double lock-up garage plus separate machinery shed or storage for boat/ caravan.

- Separate yoga/art studio.

Located on a lovely piece of elevated land with its own organic orchard, tranquil views of the surrounding hills and only a short drive to Federal hamlet, Mullumbimby and Byron Bay.

For further details or to arrange an inspection please contact Mark Bence on 0411 640576 / 1300 607080 www.benceproperty.com.au

PH: 1300 607 080

Byron

We’ve saved the best for last. The long-awaited release of the last vacant land in Ocean Shores. 4 fully serviced, prime homes sites, registered and ready from Pottsville to Cape Byron and the gorgeous green of the national park bordering the subdivision. Duplex and single-dwelling lots. End of street surrounded by nature reserve. Coolangatta airport 30 min, Brunswick Heads 7 min and Byron Bay 20 min. Don’t Miss Out!

24 Player Parade - Lot 165800m²

Duplex compliant, ocean view

2 Thomson Court - Lot 166750m²

Ocean and National park view

4 Thomson Court - Lot 167700m²

Ocean and National park view

6 Thomson Court - Lot 168685m²

Ocean and National park view

Best Offers by 26th April 2023

Todd Buckland 0408 966 421 todd@byronshirerealestate.com.au

The Springs – Elevated, Modern Architectural Masterpiece with Spectacular Mountain Views

• The Springs’ is a Master Builders Association multi award winning home featuring swathes of glass, sleek polished concrete and soaring ceilings

• Stunningly set on an elevated ridgeline overlooking 37 acres of verdant pasture including fruit trees, bamboo rainforest and farming land

• The home has an intelligent layout that flows out to the north facing horizon pool and breathtaking mountain panoramas beyond

• A state-of-the-art kitchen boasts quality appliances with ample benchtops and storage while louvred windows and bi fold glass doors promote breezes • A separate self contained studio completes this unique, luxurious offering

77 Robinsons Lane, Wilsons Creek

Price Guide: Contact Agent

Open: Thursday, 6th April 1–2pm

Architecturally Designed Hinterland Masterpiece – Two Homes

2.02HA

• Positioned on an expansive 5 acres of well-maintained gardens is this stunning mid-century modern masterpiece with breathtaking views and multiple vistas

• The office/studio has access to the pool and is ideal for working from home

• Across the 5 acres are open paddocks, perfect for a couple of horses

• The secondary dwelling is extremely private and features one bedroom, bathroom, separate laundry, and fully equipped kitchen plus a private deck

15 Newes Road, Coorabell

Price Guide: Contact Agent

Open:

35 FLETCHER ST, BYRON BAY NSW 2481

PH: O2 6685 8466

Commercially Zoned Rare Opportunity in Brunswick Heads

3 1 2

613M 2

• Spacious block with commercial zoning giving you endless possibilities

• The large block offers an existing 3-bedroom dwelling, but there is opportunity to redevelop or redesign in the best CBD position in the mecca we call Bruns

• The home offers a spacious floorplan with a large living and dining area that adjoins the kitchen with ample storage space and a large, level yard with dual lane access

• Central location walking distance to everything Brunswick Heads has to offer including the Brunswick River, world class beaches, cafes and fine dining

23 Fingal Street, Brunswick Heads

Price Guide: $2.5m – $2.75m

Open: By appointment

SALES@BYRONBAYFN.COM WWW.BYRONBAYFN.COM.AU

Spacious, Modern Family Home with Vast Outdoor Living Space and Sparkling Pool

• Award winning, luxury designed home with multiple living spaces

• Grand outdoor entertaining area equipped with an outdoor kitchen, alfresco dining area, and built in fire place and views of the sparkling pool

• The gourmet kitchen features a butler’s pantry, stone benchtops, quality appliances, an island, and plenty of storage

• Established, manicured, tropical gardens across the large corner block provide shade, privacy, and a lush green outlook from every window

5 2

3 1,905M 2

2 Oakwood Drive, Ballina

Price Guide: Contact Agent

Byron Beachside Cottage Plus Development Potential

• This superbly located property offers a great beachside home with development potential to create a dual occupancy or duplex (STCA)

• The home is in its original condition and a freshen up would offer a simple, yet charming 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with open plan living

• Featured is a wide deck, perfect to enjoy the expansive natural backdrop

• Easy stroll to the beach, Top Shop Cafe, town centre and restaurants

48 Massinger Street, Byron Bay

Price Guide: $2.8m – $3m

Open: By appointment

35 FLETCHER ST, BYRON BAY NSW 2481

PH: O2 6685 8466

Stunning Queenslander Estate Moments from Byron’s CBD

3 3,420M 2

• The home features a spacious floorplan with extra high ceilings, solid hardwood timber floors, VJ walls and stained-glass windows throughout

• Council approval for a detached 2-bedroom self-contained studio

• Minutes to bustling Byron centre and world famous surf breaks 4

38 Avocado Crescent, Ewingsdale

Price Guide: $3.25m – $3.5m Open:

Hinterland Escape – Multiple Buildings – Pristine Horse Paddocks

• Award winning, luxury designed home with multiple living spaces

• Grand outdoor entertaining area equipped with an outdoor kitchen, alfresco dining area, and built in fire place and views of the sparkling pool

• The gourmet kitchen features a butler’s pantry, stone benchtops, quality appliances, an island, and plenty of storage

Commercially Zoned 809m2 Block with Original Cottage

• Perfectly positioned in central Mullumbimby is this original home on an expansive 809m2 commercially zoned corner block with endless possibilities

• Opportunity to develop either a large centrally located home, commercial development, multiple buildings or potential strata subdivision (STCA)

• Classic 3 bedroom cottage with spacious layout and high ceilings throughout

• Corner position with dual access with Tincogan and Dalley Street

20 Tincogan Street, Mullumbimby

Price Guide: $1.45m – $1.595m

Open: By appointment

35 FLETCHER ST, BYRON BAY NSW 2481

PH: O2 6685 8466

Road, Nashua Price

$2.5m – $2.65m

132 5 2 4 4.7HA Su Reynolds 0428 888 660 Luke Elwin 0421 375 635

Vacant, Level Land with Abundance of Opportunity

610M 2

• Rarely does the opportunity arise for you to create your dream home in the highly desirable Tallowood Ridge Estate on level, vacant land

• Two separate vacant lots are on offer, in a family friendly neighborhood

• Each lot is level with views out to Mount Chincogan

• Elevated position, did not flood during the February 2022 event

• Close to tennis court, basketball half-court, full size football field, community gardens and there are endless paved walkways and cycleways

Lot 227 & 229, Tallowood Ridge Estate, Mullubimby

Price Guide: $595,000 – $645,000

Open: By appointment

RECENT DEALS BY DAVID & KIRSTEEN

David Gordon: 0418 856 222 / david.gordon@raywhite.com

Kirsteen Slessor: 0498 003 655 / kirsteen.slessor@raywhite.com

3/15 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay NSW 2481 02 6685 6222

CONGRATULATIONS

‘I am beyond grateful to be named the #1 Agent in Byron Bay! This award is a testament to the incredibly hard-working team behind me.

A massive thank you to my clients who have trusted me to get them the very best result with their biggest asset.’

If you are looking at selling or buying, give Damien a call today!

No one leases more commercial property in Byron Bay than the Ray White Commercial Team

Damien Smith

Damien Smith Agent of the year

Byron Bay

6

Swan Bay Fields

Now is your chance to secure a large block of land in an exciting new development close to world class facilities, the spectacular North facing ridge, these blocks range in size from school bus stop for the children, this is sure to become a thriving beaches and fertile valleys, eclectic market scene and laid-back

$390.000

this

is based on information provided to the agents, and the vendor and agents expressly disclaim any liability guaranteed, and prospective purchasers should make their own enquiries and form their own judgement as to these

PRICE: $4.9M TO $5M

PRIME COMMERCIAL SPACE IN BUSTLING

Plenty of Blue Sky to develop on this 1,320sqm site

Currently occupied by long term tenants

Self contained managers unit plus 9 separate offices/units

DA approval for an additional 11 storage units

Organically certified commercial kitchen with huge coolroom and grease trap

Zoned In2 Light industrial CHRISTIAN SERGIACOMI 0400 221 653

BORONIA PLACE, BYRON BAY

NASHUA 604 Lismore-Bangalow Road

Taking pride of place on a spectacular 12.47ha parcel of land, this exclusive residence takes private and contemporary living to an all-new height, showcasing 467sqm of internal living space in the main house, plus a 4 bed guest house and two additional studios. The main house is immaculately appointed throughout, offering 6 large bedrooms all with large picture windows framing the beautiful countryside views. The palatial master wing enjoys a wall of built-in storage plus walk in wardrobe, a full-sized ensuite and direct access to a private patio. Complete with an oversized garage for 4 cars plus workshop, this is the ultimate family sanctuary in a tightly held position just 9 minutes from Bangalow and a 30-minute drive to the popular Byron Bay.

64 4

Monday 17th April 2023 at 5:00PM Level 1/29-33 Bay St, Double Bay NSW 2028

Grant Dale 0419 199 122 Darren Perkins 0428 660 324

byronbaysir.com.au

gnfrealestate.com.au

Time is of the essence...

The time to speak up, act up and protest is now. We are in a climate crisis!

Located in Federal, Hinterland Byron Bay, 20 minutes to Byron Bay, 25 minutes to Lismore or Ballina. style pool plus a large “Managers” residence also

Atlas by LJ Hooker Byron Bay

• 35A Station St, Mullum. Thurs 10–10.30am

• 35A Station St, Mullum. Sat 10–10.30am

Byron Shire Real Estate

• 13 Torakina Rd, Bruns. Sat 10–10.30am

• 4 Yemlot Crt, Bruns. Sat 10–10.30am

• 7 Yackatoon Crt, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am

• 7A Tathra Glen, Ocean Shores. Sat 11–11.30am

• 8 Bower St, Bruns. Sat 11–11.30am

• 27 Warrambool Rd, Ocean Shores. Sat 12–12.30pm

Century 21 Plateau Lifestyle

• 1/119 Elliot Rd, Clunes. Sat 9.30–10am

First National Byron

• 77 Robinsons Lane, Wilsons Creek. Thurs 1–2pm

• 2 Oakwood Dr, Ballina. Thurs 2–2.30pm

• 2E Kalemajere Dr, Suffolk Park. Sat 10–10.30am

• 7/19 Teak Rd, Federal. Sat 10–10.30am

• 3/9 Colin St, Bangalow. Sat 11–11.30am

• 41 Federal Dr, Eureka. Sat 11–11.30am

• 132 Scarrabelottis Rd, Nashua. Sat 12–12.30pm

HarCrt.s Northern Rivers

• 22 Karalauren Crt, Lennox Head. Sat 9–9.30am

• 10/2 Condon Dr, East Ballina. Sat 10–10.30am

• 23 Shearwater Cl, East Ballina. Sat 11–11.30am

• 82 Tyumba Ave, Teven. Sat 11–11.30am

• 565 Friday Hut Rd, Brooklet. Sat 12–1pm

• 731 Teven Rd, Teven. Sat 1–1.30pm

• 7 Platypus Dr, Uralba. Sat 1–1.30pm

• 131 Tanamera Dr, Alstonville. Sat 2.15–2.45pm Mana RE

• 59 Riverview St, Murwillumbah. Sat 9–9.30am

• 5 Philip St, SGB. Sat 9–9.30am

• 46 Narooma Dr, Ocean Shores. Sat 9–9.30am

• 4/4 Halyard Crt, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am

• 8 Redgate Rd, SGB. Sat 11–12pm

• 8 Redgate Rd, SGB. Mon 10–11am

• 21 Pacific St, New Brighton. Wed 1–1.30pm

• 21 Pacific St, New Brighton. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 33 Beach St, SGB. Wed 12–12.30pm

• 33 Beach St, SGB. Sat 11–11.30am

• 351 Zara Rd, Zara. Sat 11.30–12.30pm

• 1/8 Yengarie Way, Ocean Shores. Sat 1–1.30pm

• 8 Ramsey Cl, Goonellabah. Sat 1.30–2pm

• 3 Weeronga Way, Ocean Shores. Wed 4–4.30pm

• 3 Weeronga Way, Ocean Shores. Sat 10–10.30am

McGrath Byron Bay

• 9C Mott St, Byron Bay. Sat 9–9.30am

• 5 Matilda St, Lennox Head. Sat 9–9.30am

• 43 Beech Dr, Suffolk Park. Sat 9.30–10am

• 1.02/139 Jonson St, Byron Bay. Sat 10.30–11am

• 2.12/139 Jonson St. Byron Bay. 10.30–11am

• 77 Parkway Dr, Ewingsdale. Sat 10–10.30am

• 45 Brownell Dr, Byron Bay. Sat 10–10.30am

• 60 Massinger St, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 20 Wallaby Cl, Ewingsdale. Sat 11.30–12pm

• 7 Palm Pl, Byron Bay. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 5/174 Fowlers Ln, Bangalow. Sat 1–1.30pm

North Coast Lifestyle Properties Mullum.

• 15 Clifford St, SGB. Sat 10–10.45am

• 50 Stuart St, Mullum. Sat 12–12.45pm

North Coast Lifestyle Properties Brunswick

• 19 Grevillea Av, Mullum. Sat 10 – 10.30am

• 1 Mullumbimbi St, Bruns. Sat 10–10.30am

• Unit 8, 5–7 Newberry Parade Bruns. Sat 11–11.30am

• 20 Redgate Rd, SGB. Sat 11–11.45am

Property Hub Byron Shire

• 11/19 Namitjira Place, Ballina. Sat 10–10.30am

Ray White Byron Bay

• 30 Bottlebrush Cres, Suffolk Park. Wed 12–12.30pm

• 31 Beachcomber Dr, Byron Bay. Wed 1–1.30pm

• 86 Brushbox Dr, Mullum. Thurs 10.30–11am

• 11 Angus Kennedy Cl, Lennox Head. Sat 10.30–11am

• 60 Hollingworth Lane, Mullum. Sat 10.30–11am

Real Estate of Distinction

• 2 Giaour St, Byron Bay. Sat 11–11.30am

• 35–37 Edwards Lane, Kynnumboon. Sat 3–3.30pm

Ruth Russell Realty

• 11 Quail Way, Mullum. Sat 11–11.45 am

• 54 Main Arm Rd, Mullum. Sat 12.30–1 pm

• 44 Pine Av. Mullum. Sat 2.30–3 pm

Tim Miller Real Estate

• 8 George St, Bangalow. Sat 9–9.30am

• 168 Johnston Rd, Clunes. Sat 10–10.30am

• 1098 Bangalow Rd, Bexhill. Sat 11–11.30am

• 447 Eltham Rd, Eltham. Sat 12–12.30pm

• 756 Cowlong Rd, Eltham. Sat 1–1.30pm

Auction

McGrath Byron Bay

• 43 Beech Dr, Suffolk Park. Sat 10am

Ray White Byron Bay

• 86 Brushbox Dr, Mullum Creek. Thur 6 April 11am

• 11 Angus Kennedy Cl, Lennox Head. Fri 28 April 1pm

• 60 Hollingworth Lane, Mullum. Fri 28 April 4 pm

• 13 Argyle St, Mullum. Sat 29 April 3pm, onsite

• 121 Alcorn St, Suffolk Park. Frid 5 May 2pm, onsite

New Listing

North Coast Lifestyle Properties Mullum

• 50 Stuart St, Mullum. By Negotiation

• 3 Argyle St, Mullum. Contact Agent

North Coast Lifestyle Properties

• 13 Gaggin St, New Brighton. Just Listed

• Unit 8, 5–7 Newberry Parade Bruns. $875,000

• 5 Wahlooga Way, Ocean Shores. $1,100,000

Service Directory

Fencing.........................................65

Floor Sanding & Polishing..............65

Furniture Maker............................65

Garden & Property Maintenance....65

Gas Suppliers................................65

Graphic Design..............................65

Guitar Repairs...............................66

Guttering......................................66

Handypersons...............................66

Health..........................................66

Hire..............................................66

Insurance......................................66

Landscape Supplies.......................66

Landscaping .................................66

Locksmith.....................................66

Painting........................................66

Pest Control..................................66

Photography.................................66

Physiotherapy...............................66

Picture Framing............................66

Plastering.....................................66

Plumbers......................................66

Pool Services.................................66

Removalists..................................66

Roofing.........................................67

Rubbish Removal..........................67

Self Storage..................................67

Septic Systems..............................67

Solar Installation..........................67

Television Services........................67

Tiling............................................67

Transport......................................67

Tree Services.................................67

Upholstery....................................67

Valuers.........................................67

Veterinary Surgeons......................67

Water Filters.................................67

Water Services..............................67

Welding........................................67

Window Cleaning..........................67

Window Tinting............................67

Writing Services............................67

PLEASE

GUTTERING

B Timbs Painting B Timbs

HANDYPERSONS

Tree Faerie Fotos

DISCLAIMER

ECHO CLASSIFIEDS – 6684 1777

CLASSIFIED AD BOOKINGS

PHONE ADS

Ads may be taken by phone on 6684 1777

AT THE ECHO HEAD OFFICE

Ads can be lodged in person at the Mullum Echo office: Village Way, Stuart St, Mullumbimby

EMAIL ADS

Display classies (box ads): adcopy@echo.net.au

Line classies: classifieds@echo.net.au

Ad bookings only taken during business hours: Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm. Ads can’t be taken on the weekend. Account enquiries phone 6684 1777.

DEADLINE TUES 12PM

RATES & PAYMENT

LINE ADS:

$17.00 for the first two lines

$5.00 for each extra line

$17 for two lines is the minimum charge.

DISPLAY ADS(with a border): $12.85 per column centimetre

These prices include GST. Cash, cheque, Mastercard or Visa Prepayment is required for all ads.

CLASSIFIEDS THAT WORK ALL WEEK!

Echo Classies also appear online: www.echo.net.au/classified-ads

HYPNOSIS &

Make

ITEMS UNDER $100

CRYSTAL HEALINGS & READINGS

Mullumbimby

Kate is a deeply intuitive, wholehearted, compassionate & sensitive person, who brings humour & warmth into your session. Take away detailed messages, guidance & tools, as well as a potent healing transmission from the crystals.

0413 003 301 crystalsanddreaming.com.au

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

A Gambit for the Muse

‘David Lovejoy’s latest novel, White Horses and Dark Knights, is… the story of the fictional George Marks, a British journeyman International Master whose rational mind struggles with the possibility that he may have met – or rather been chosen by – a muse, Kay Orikasa. …Fun to read, with Lovejoy keeping the action and plot twists going until the end.’

– Grandmaster Ian Rogers, Canberra Times White Horses and Dark Knights, paperback, 245pp, is available for $20 at The Echo

BUSINESS FOR SALE

OWNERS RETIRING Manufacturing camphor laurel timber products for export & domestic markets. Fully integrated business, saw mills, dryer, forklift, 1400mm thicknesser sander & dust extractor and many assorted tools. An affordable business. Peter 0428263086

Yellow Flower

INDIAN DINER

Iconic restaurant in Suffolk Park for sale. Incredible opportunity in uniquelocation.

Family owned for 23 years.

Dine-in, takeaway, and retail frozen meals.

5-year lease with excellent turnover.

Offers over 200k considered. 0421034813

TO LET

STUDIO OCEAN SHORES Self-contained, private with garden view. $330p/w. 0402453304

LOCAL REMOVAL

& backloads to Brisbane. Friendly, with 10 years local exp. 0409917646

2BDR HUONBROOK. Furn. 1 u/c park. 12 months. $550p/w. 66840598

2BDR, 2 BATH APARTMENT Byron Bay. $900p/w. Fully furnished. 0419809809

1BDR, 1BATH Fully furnished apartment, Byron Bay. $550p/w. 0419809809.

STUDIO $400p/w plus electricity. Upper Main Arm. References and bond required. Long let. 0418969637

SOUTH GOLDEN BEACH 3 min walk to beach. 3bdr, 2 bthrm, DLUG. $800p/w. Suit working couple only, good refs. Pet allowed. Available early May. Please call Bob on 0423904291

POSITIONS VACANT

THE ECHO * The Echo has a contract position commencing 12 April delivering papers to:

1. Wategos Beach and Paterson St: 500 papers. This position involves inserting, folding and (in wet weather) bagging and delivery of papers, throwing them accurately to driveways from a car, to homes in Wategos and Paterson St areas of Byron.

SALES / FACTORY DUTIES

For busy organic skincare & makeup co. 3–4 days. Bring resume in person to Wild Nature, 86 Centennial Cct. Byron A&I Est.

LADIES WANTED, MUST BE 18+ Casual or permanent work available in busy adult parlour. 66816038 for details.

Tutor wanted for Year 1 student

Student who needs to catch up having missed the past year while overseas. Help mainly needed with reading and writing English.

Experience and qualifications required. Top rate paid.

Location: Our house in Bruns. 45min–1hr lessons, 3–4 times per week, 4–6pm, preferably Mon–Fri. Please send application to: Sophie.bouchetdoumenq@ gmail.com

National Transport and Logistics company requires HC/MC seasonal cane truck drivers at Condong,Broadwater and Harwood Sugar Millsites.

Competitive pay rates. Send Resumé/CV to Wendy.Keel@sctlogistics.com.au or call 0409 568 795

Dispatch and

and collectibles inc fishing, china, tools and lots more. FRI

* The work tends to suit a semi-retired or underemployed person/couple who just want a reliable job to do at their own pace at the same time every week. The successful applicants for these runs will have an ABN, a reliable vehicle, a strong throwing arm, and ideally they will live near the distribution area. They will collect the papers/ inserts from Ballina (before 7am) or Mullumbimby (7–7.30am) or Byron A&I Estate (around 10am) on Wednesday and will have delivered all the papers by 6pm Wednesday. Suit mature or stable person.

Commencing asap.

Email simon@echo.net.au or phone/text 0409324724

AlkaWay, an international health products company located in Byron Shire NSW, is seeking an enthusiastic all-rounder to join its busy team. Duties will include relief dispatch, reception and customer support. Relief dispatch duties incl. packing and shipping orders, assembly of items, restocking shelves and some heavy lifting, up to 25kg. The successful applicant will be good at learning and following procedures, computer systems, attention to detail, team work and adaptability. Commencing as a casual position, approx. 4 days per week, a permanent role may become available if person

Please send an email introducing yourself with a short resume to info@alkaway.com.au by Friday 14 April 2023.

Classifieds

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Have you got mad graphic designer skills?

Do you thrive under pressure and laugh in the face of deadlines?

Do you have the fortitude to provide excellent customer service to all manner of colourful clients?

Want to join an awesome team producing the best community newspaper around?

If the answer is yes, then please get in touch!

Part-time position working Mondays and Tuesdays in our Mullumbimby office. Ideally candidates would be experienced in designing for both print and websites using the Adobe Creative Suite, and be comfortable working on a Mac.

Send your resume and an introduction to: positions@echo.net.au

Honouring

Kerry Riley

1.3.48 – 26.3.23

Social Media Manager

Join our awesome team, help the bees, and use business for a positive purpose!

www.honeyflow.com.au/jobs

TUITION

FRENCH • ITALIAN • GERMAN

Eva 0403224842 www.languagetuitionbyron.com.au

BIRTHDAYS

Happy Birthday

Tirza!

Lots of love from the Echo crew xxx

DEATH NOTICES

Vale Alice Ruth Wilson

nee James, ‘RUTHI’

21-03-1933 ~ 08-03-2023

The family wish to inform of her passing. A loving mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, and so much more. Her journey here has ended, but her spirit will be in our hearts forever.

Privately cremated and farewelled by her family.

ARCHIE is a 1.5 year old, Mastiff X Rottweiler. He is well behaved and would love a family of his own. He is ok with most dogs and would be ok with older children.

M/C # 985141003958935

For more information contact Yvette on 0421 831 128. Interested? Complete our online adoption expression of interest form: www.friendsofthepound.com/ adoption-expression-of-interest/

ONLY ADULTS

AMAETHYSTIA Fetish Masquerade 22 April 2023 thesanctumclub.com

SHIBARI FOR WOMEN byronbayshibari.com

BALLINA EXCLUSIVE 34 Piper Dr. Open 7 days 10am till late. In & Out Calls. 66816038. Ladies wanted Find us on Facebook and Twitter!

COVID SAFE

FULL BODY RESTORATION

Healing Through Pleasure massagebyronbay.com or 0425347477

LICENSED TO THRILL Premium Massage & Play touchofjustine.com/byron-bay-outcalls

SOCIAL ESCORTS

LOTS OF GORGEOUS LADIES available for your pleasure nearby. Spoil yourself. In & out. 7 days. Ladies always wanted. 0266816038. COVID SAFE

Devoted to Pleasure

Couples, Men & Women touchofjustine.com

0407 013 347

ECHO CLASSIFIED DEADLINE AFTER EASTER WILL BE NOON, TUESDAY 11 APRIL. We will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday so please get your classified ads in early. classifieds@echo.net.au

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

MONTHLY MARKETS

Resident of the Byron area for 16 years.

Kerry died peacefully at home after a long traverse with cancer. He had a wonderful life full of love, spirit, family, friends and inspirational work. Kerry will always be loved by; Diane, beloved and life partner, daughters Soelae and Lisa-Mae, son Sam, granddaughters Indiana, Giselle and Luna, son, Dan, and daughter-in-law, Mariana.

Kerry will be held deep in our hearts always.

Paperbark Death Care

W E D N E S D A Y WEDNESDAY

Wednesday is the prettiest young calico girl and she’ll love you every day of the week. She’s definitely a stand out in the shelter both with looks & personality and would slot easily into anyone’s calendar.

To meet Wednesday, please visit the Cat Adoption Centre at 124 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby.

MUSICAL NOTES

GUITAR STRINGS, REPAIRS Brunswick Heads 66851005 PETS

Byron Dog Rescue (CAWI)

PRINCE

OPEN: Tues 2.30–4.30pm

Thurs 3–5pm, Sat 10am–12 noon

Call AWL on 0436 845 542

Like us on Facebook!

AWL NSW Rehoming Organisation Number: R251000222

KRYSTAL ADULT SHOP

Large variety of toys and lingerie 6/6 Tasman Way, A&I Est, Byron Bay Ph 66856330

BLISSFUL MASSAGE FOR WOMEN BY A WOMAN

Gift your wife a sensual treat! Ph 0407013347

PRINC E PRINCE

We rescued 7-month-old male Bull Terrier x Staffy ‘Prince’ from the pound. He is a delight! He’s bouncy, cheerful, friendly, sweet and adoringly affectionate. He’s a smart puppy and is learning quickly. He so wants to please, walks extremely well on-leash and already has excellent recall.

Prince loves other dogs and will be lovely with older children.

Looking for a loyal, loving, active companion or property dog?

Come meet jovial joy-maker Prince. Please contact Shell on 0458461935.

MC: 953010005793811

This week is kitten Dawn’s turn to meet you all. She arrived with mother and brother, Dylan. DAWN is a delightful youngster full of curiosity and playfulness as she discovers the big world that currently is the shelter. What she doesn’t know is the universe of joy and discovery that she will share with you if you adopt her. Why not pop in and have a chat with her. All cats are desexed, vaccinated and microchipped. No: 953010006195647.

Please make an appointment 0403 533 589 • Billinudgel petsforlifeanimalshelter.net

Community at Work

On The Horizon

DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY

Email copy marked ‘On The Horizon’ to editor@echo.net.au.

Free kids chess lessons

Lennox Head Chess Club is conducting a free four-day chess course and tutoring, for 12 year olds and under, over the school holidays. The course is designed for beginners and intermediate players. To be conducted 9am till 11.30am, 18–21 April at Room 2 Cultural Centre Lennox Head behind the Library. Contact Jim Gilchrist on 02 6687 4471 or 0425 276 946, or email president@lennoxheadchess.com.au to book.

Prostate Cancer Support

The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Day Prostate Cancer Support Group is to be held on Wednesday 12 April, 10am until 12 noon at the Alstonville Plateau Sports Club (previously known as Bowling Club), Deegan Drive, Alstonville. Men previously and newly diagnosed with prostate cancer are urged to join with

the group to experience the personal cancer stories told, which give a great opportunity for all present to share, learn and benefit from each other.

Partners and carers are also most welcome to attend as family are very much involved with the process and treatment of those with this disease. Enquiries, phone Bob Corney 0493 075 612.

Chemical

Free Landcare

Byron Shire Chemical Free Landcare working bee will be at Saltwater Creek, Saturday 22 April, 8am until 12 pm. Meet at Mullumbimby Community Garden car park. A cats claw weaving workshop is available 14–16 April.

Botanic Gardens

Rainforest walk

Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens

Saturday 15 April: Guided walk of the rainforest with Marijo. Find out

Regular As Clockwork

DEADLINE NOON FRIDAY

Please note that, owing to space restrictions, not all entries may be included each week. Email copy marked ‘Regular As Clockwork’ to editor@echo.net.au.

Mullumbimby District

Neighbourhood Centre

Mullumbimby & District

Neighbourhood Centre is open

Monday–Thursday 9am–4pm (closed from 12.30–1.30pm for lunch) and offers a range of services and activities. Everyone is welcome. Call reception on 6684 1286 and discover what is on offer.

MDNC services that are running include:

Flood Recovery Support Service: personalised, long-term support for those impacted by the floods. Community support: Food parcels, meals, showers, assistance with electricity and phoneelstra bills, Work Development Orders.

Listening Space: free counselling. Staying Home, Leaving Violence program Integrated Domestic & Family Violence program

Financial Counselling: outreach available Thursdays & Fridays

Financial Counselling: free service to resume in February, call 6684 1286 for more details.

Information, referral and advocacy.

To enquire about accessing any of these services call 6684 1286 or fill out an online enquiry form.

Byron Community Centre

Byron Community Centre

The Byron Community Centre provides community services and programs including meals, advocacy and counselling for locals in need. Fletcher Street Cottage: A welcoming, safe and respectful space where people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness can come to get practical relief opportunities, find connections and access broader support. Fletcher Street Cottage services are open Monday–Friday. Breakfast: Monday–Friday, 7am–9am. Showers and Laundry: Monday–Friday, 7am–12pm. Office Support: Monday–Friday, 9am - 12pm. Support Appointments: Individual support appointments with community workers or specialist services. For bookings please call 6685 6807. Fletcher Street Cottage, 18 Fletcher St, Byron Bay. More info: www. fletcherstreetcottage.com.au.

Byron Community Cabin: Seniors Computer Club (school term only), 9–11am, Friday, Carlyle Steet. More info: www.byroncentre.com.au Phone: 6685 6807

about the history of the Gardens as a regeneration project on land given to the Friends of the Rainforest Botanic Gardens by Lismore Council. Meet at the Visitor’s Centre at 9.15am for a 9.30am start for a one hour walk. Morning tea in the Visitor’s Centre after the walk. Gold coin donation appreciated. Booking essential: Email publicity@friendslrbg.com.

au or text 0450 596 705. Sunday 30 April: Guided walk of the Wilsons Park Species Garden with Tim. The Wilsons Park Species Garden replicates the rainforest plants that were originally found at the Wilsons Reserve a few kilometres from the Gardens. Meet at the Visitor’s Centre at 9.15am for a 9.30am start for a one-hour walk.

Morning tea in the Visitor’s Centre after the walk. Gold coin donation appreciated. Booking essential: Email publicity@friendslrbg.com.au or text 0450 596 705.

Women’s Village Collective

The Women’s Village Collective (WVC) is hosting a series of free events and community development initiatives on housing models, financial preparedness, and how to get into

www.na.org.au. Are you concerned about somebody else’s drinking?

Al-Anon Family Groups meetings held Fridays at 2pm by Zoom. 1300 252666 www.al-anon.org.au.

Support after suicide

your own home. The first workshop, 5 April, is on financial preparedness, with information about the current government schemes available to support people into their own homes. The second workshop, 2 May, will focus on the nuts and bolts of planning and what you need to know if you are considering going into a property with other people. Join the WVC today to secure your annual membership and go on the register: www.womensvillagecollective.org.au/ become-a-member

Sing in support of Feros residents

Be part of Raised Voices, a Community of Voices that are coming together to sing in support of Elders at Feros Village in Byron Bay who have been evicted by the Feros board. They wish to remain in their homeland their community until the end of their lives. Join us to sing this Thursday at Butler Reserve, behind the farmers market at 11.15am and every Thursday after that until we know our elders are safe in their home. Everyone welcome, for information call and enquiries Matijo 0435 049 489.

Language exchange

AIRFNCB

The next two meetings of the Association of Independent Retirees (AIRFNCB) have been put on a week from the usual first Friday of the month. The April meeting will be on Friday 14 April with guest speaker Bill Coultere at Ballina RSL. The May meeting will be on Friday 12 May with guest speaker Noel Whittaker, author, newspaper columnist, and finance investment expert. Both meetings will be held at the RSL Ballina, as usual at 9.30am for 10am start. This will be our 30th Anniversary of the Branch’s formation, and there will be a celebration luncheon following the meeting. To book your lunch please contact Anne on 0437 309 250, or John on 0437 509 618.

Peace & ANZAC Day

Lighting a Candle for Peace on the Eve of ANZAC Day will be held on April 24, at Lismore Anglican St Andrew’s Church, 10 Zadoc St. This ceremony is to remember all who have suffered through war, on all sides. At the same time it expresses the wish for non-violent conflict resolutions in a peaceful future. This all-inclusive,

Meditation

multicultural, multi-faith gathering on April 24, at 5.30–6.30pm, followed by refreshments. For more information please contact: Sabina 6688 6214.

Bangalow Museum

The Bangalow Museum is open Thursday to Saturday 10–2pm. Volunteers are needed so if you have a few spare hours either weekly, monthly or for special events call in at 4 Ashton Street, Bangalow or contact Trisha 0429 882 525.

CWA Bruns

CWA of Brunswick Heads Crafty Women meet Fridays 10–2pm, corner of Park and Booyun Street, Brunswick Heads. Join us for a chat, a cuppa and bring along your craft projects including sewing, knitting, crocheting, memory books or quilting.

Byron Bay library

Scrabble Club

If you are a word enthusiast come along and join our community led Scrabble Club which meets every Thursday at 2pm at Byron Library. Open to players of all levels, make new friends. More info on 6685 8540.

Low-cost or free food

Food Box Thursdays 9.30–11.30am at Uniting Church, Mullumbimby. You may purchase cheap food, obtain free veges, and enjoy a cuppa. Free Food Relief Bags for anyone doing it tough, every Wednesday 10–12noon at The Hub Ocean Shores, cnr Rajah Rd and Bindaree Way. No ID or Concession Card required. NILs referral service also available. Check Facebook page The Hub Baptist Ocean Shores for details. Liberation Larder Takeaway lunches and groceries Monday and Thursday 12 till 1pm. Fletcher Street end of the Byron Community Centre.

Respite Service

Byron Shire Respite Service Inc delivers high-quality respite care to a broad range of clients throughout the Byron, Ballina and Lismore shires. Donations welcome: Ph 6685 1921, email fundraiser@byronrespite.com.au, website: www.byronrespite.com.au.

Alateen meeting

Alateen meeting every Thursday at 5–6pm. Do you have a parent, close friend or relative with a drinking problem? Alateen can help. For 8–16-year-olds meet St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church Hall, 13 Powell Street, corner of Florence Street Tweed Heads. Al-Anon family groups for older members at the same time and place.

1300 ALANON 1300 252 666 www. al-anon.org.au

ACA

Adult Children of Alcoholic Parents and/or Dysfunctional Families (ACA) help & recovery group meets in Lismore every Friday 10–11.30am, Red Dove Centre, 80 Keen Street. Byron meetings are on Tuesdays at 7pm via Zoom – meeting ID 554 974 582 password byronbay.

Drug support groups

Call Alcoholics Anonymous 1800 423 431 or 0401 945 671 – 30 meetings a week in the Shire – www.aa.org.au. Are you experiencing difficulties and challenges because of the alcohol or drug use of someone close to you?

Learn coping skills and gain support from others. Narcotics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women for whom drugs had become a major problem. We are recovering addicts who meet regularly to help each other stay clean. For information and meetings call 1300 652 820 or text your postcode to 0488 811 247.

StandBy provides support to people who have lost someone to suicide. They provide free face-to-face and telephone support and are accessible 24/7. Follow-up contact is available for up to one year. Find out more at: www. standbysupport.com.au or call 13 11 14. If you, or someone you are with, are in need of immediate support please call an ambulance or police on 000.

End-of-Life Choices

Voluntary Euthanasia End-of-Life

Choices are discussed at Exit International meetings held quarterly. Meetings are held at Robina and Tweed Heads South, this month. Attendees must be Exit Members. For further Information www.exitinternational.net or phone Catherine 0435 228 443.

Carers’ support

Mullumbimby Mental Health Carers’

Support Group for family members and friends who have a loved one with a mental health issue. Meeting on 4th Thursday of each month 9.30am at the Mullumbimby Neighbourhood Centre.

Info: Susanne 0428 716 431.

Rainbow Dragons

Rainbow Dragons Abreast (RDA) welcomes breast cancer survivors for a paddle at Lake Ainsworth, Lennox Head (and sometimes at Ballina) on Sundays 7.30am for 8am start. Contact Marian 6688 4058, mazzerati2010@gmail.com.

Bruns Progress

Residents, come along and have your say at the Brunswick Heads Progress Association. We meet the first Monday of each month at the CWA cottage, Park St, at 6:30pm. Contact: brunswickheadsprogressassoc@gmail. com.

Older adult exercise

Chair Based Older Adults Exercise

Classes run by a qualified instructor, that feel more like fun than exercise, are held every Thursday at 10.15am in the Brunswick Memorial Hall. Cost $10. All welcome. Just show up or if you have any questions please contact Di on 0427 026 935.

$5 pilates classes

Come and join us for $5 Pilates classes every Thursday at 8.45am in the Memorial Hall, 22 Fingal Street, Brunswick Heads and Monday at 8.45am in Mullumbimby. It doesn’t matter what level you are, as beginner to advanced options are shown. Just bring a mat and water. My goal is to keep the Shire active and feeling great one person at a time. No need to book just show up. For more information contact Di on 0427 026 935.

Byron language exchange club runs every 2nd last Friday of the month from 6pm (alternating Ballina/ Byron). Practise other languages or help someone with your English! Find us on Facebook. Contact byronbaylanguages@gmail.com.

Brunswick Valley Historical Society Inc

The Museum is on the corner of Myocum and Stuart Sts Mullumbimby, open Tuesdays and Fridays 10am–12pm and market Saturdays 9am–1pm. Discover your local history, join our team –6684 4367.

Library fun

Baby Bounce and Storytime for toddlers and pre-school children are at: Brunswick Heads Library, Monday – Story Time 10.30 till 11.30am; Friday – Baby Time 10.30 till 11am. Mullumbimby Library, Monday – Story Time 10–11am; Tuesday –Baby Time 10–10.30 am.

Social sporting groups

Mullumbimby: Tuesday Ladies Group of Riverside Tennis Club welcomes new players 9.30am every Tuesday next to Heritage Park, for social tennis, fun and friendship. Info: Barbara 6684 8058. South Golden Shores Community Centre Women’s table tennis every Monday at 10am. Phone 0435 780 017. Byron Bay Croquet at Croquet Club next to the Scout Hall at the Byron Rec Grounds every Monday at 3.30pm. Ring 0477 972 535. Pottsville Fun Croquet Club at Black Rocks Sportfield. Beginners and visitors welcome. Game starts 8.30am Tuesday and Thursday. $5 per game. Enquiries 0413 335 941.

Exercise for older adults

Chair Based Older Adults Exercise Classes run by a qualified instructor, that feel more like fun than exercise, are held every Thursday at 10.15am in the Brunswick Memorial Hall. Cost $10. All welcome. Just show up or if you have any questions please contact Di on 0427 026 935.

Toastmasters

Byron Cavanbah Toastmasters meetings coaching in communication and self-development run on 1st and 3rd Mondays, 6.15 for 6.30pm at Byron Bay Services Club, Byron Bay. Online attendance allowed. Mullum Magic Toastmasters: Mullum Magic provides a safe and fun environment for members and guests to develop their public-speaking and leadership skills. Meeting 6.30–8.30pm every second and fourth Thursday of the month at the Mullum Ex-Services Club. New members and guests welcome. Contact Bruce 0418 515 991 or Ninian 0411 629 982.

Dzogchen meditation and study group 2nd and 4th Saturdays each month at Mullumbimby CWA Hall. Didi 0408 008 769. Buddhist meditation and conversation with John Allan, Mondays 6.30–8.30pm, The Yurt, Temple Byron. No fees. John 0428 991 189. Byron yoga philosophy club free meditation classes Monday, 7pm, 1 Korau Place Suffolk Park. Go to www.wisdom.yoga or phone Kris 0435 300 743. Byron Bay Meditation Centre, Tuesday 6.30pm at Temple Byron. For more info: byronbaymeditationcentre.com.au or contact Greg 0431 747 764.

Brunswick Heads CWA

Brunswick Heads CWA Crafty Women meet Fridays 10am–2pm, cnr Park and Booyun Streets, Brunswick Heads. Join us for a chat and cuppa, bring along your craft projects including sewing, knitting, crocheting, or quilting. Beginners welcome. Gold coin donation for morning tea.

Byron Gem Club

The Bryon Gem and Lapidary Club is open weekly to members new and old. Visitors welcome to view club facilities. Activities semi-precious and gemstone cutting, shaping and polishing, gem faceting, silver work, gem setting and jewellery making etc. Facebook @ Byron Gem Club. Club workshed located past Sky Dive Byron at Tyagarah Airfield. Contact 6687 1251 or 0427 529 967 for more info.

CWA Bangalow

Bangalow CWA has reopened and our hours are Monday–Friday 10am–2pm and Saturdays 8am-12 noon.

Craft group

The Uniting Craft & Social Group meets every Monday 9.30am–2.30pm at the Uniting Church in Carlyle Street, Byron Bay. Bring lunch and whatever else you need. Small cost. All welcome. Do you prefer patchwork and quilting? Come along on Monday evening same place at 6pm. Enquiries Tilly 6685 5985.

Op shops

Uniting Church Op Shop, Dalley St, Mullumbimby – open each Saturday 9am–12 noon. Byron Bay Anglican Op Shop opens Tuesday to Saturday 9am–1pm. Volunteers needed. Enq Cathy 0432 606 849. Mullumbimby Anglican Op Shop opens Monday to Friday 9am–4pm, Saturday 9am–12noon. Volunteers needed, enq to shop 6684 4718. Mullumbimby Seventh-Day Adventist Op Shop opens Tuesday to Friday 11am-3pm.

Companion Animals Welfare Inc (CAWI) op shop Brunswick Heads (next to supermarket) open Mon–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 9am–1pm, Sun closed.

Mullumbimby Potters & Sculptors

Mullumbimby Clayworkers Gallery in the Drill Hall complex is open every Thursday to Saturday 10am–2pm with pottery and sculpture from community members for sale. Applications for studio membership open in January. All details at www.mullumclayworkers.com.

Toy Library

The Byron Shire Toy Library is open Mondays and Thursdays 9am–12 noon, at the Children’s Centre, Coogera Cct, Suffolk Park. Come and see the large range of preschoolers toys available for loan.

Up your skills

Come to Upskill in Mullumbimby, a free introductory building and carpentry workshop. Workshops are held every Saturday, 9am to 1pm at Shedding Community Workshop. Bookings Essential via shedding.com.au. Contact Sophie Wilksch via email at shedding. communityworkshop@gmail.com.

Muslim prayer

Friday Muslim prayer. Jumu’ah service held weekly at the Cavanbah Centre at 1.30 pm. Come to the remembrance of Allah.

Lions Club

Interested in making new friends and helping our community? Lions Club of Brunswick Mullumbimby meets 1st & 3rd Tuesdays at 7pm Ocean Shores Country Club. Info: Joan Towers 0400 484 419.

Landcare

Bangalow Land and Rivercare working bee every Saturday 8.30–10.30am. Email: bangalowlandcare@gmail.com. Noelene 0431 200 638.

Ocean Shores Seniors Tennis

Mixed tennis at Waterlilly Park every Monday and Wednesday from 8.30–11.30am.

Amitayus Home Hospice

Our trained volunteer carers at Amitayus Home Hospice Service provide practical, compassionate, and quality palliative care to those who wish to die at home. To find out more about this free service, or to train as a volunteer carer, please contact us: M 0468 483 857, info@amitayus.org.au, www.amitayus.org.au.

Sex & Love Addicts Anon

Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous is peer-support group of men and women for whom sex and/or romance have become a problem. For details of weekly meetings, phone 0452 074 974 or visit www.slaa.org.au.

Please note: This section is intended for the benefit of non-profit community groups.

Byron Bullsharks take water polo championship

Tricks galore at Ballina skate contest

The Fair Go skateboard competition took place at the Ballina skatepark over three days last weekend and included riders from all over Australia aged from three to 75 years old.

The Byron Bay Bullsharks women’s water polo team have won this year’s Far North Coast competition after winning the A-grade grand final on the last weekend of March at the Ballina Pool.

The team was running short of playing numbers towards the end of the season, and had to resort to using a player with a broken foot, but they managed to finish second on the ladder at the end for the regular season, according to captain Kerry Hardey.

On finals day they again played with a depleted bench, but were able to win their first game against the Lismore Young Guns, before taking on the Alstonville Axolotls.

‘The final was very close and we were just one point ahead, so we reshuffled the positions and we managed to go on and win it,’ Kerry said. ‘Everyone is super happy, we had a great year.’

The friendliness of the playing group was a real attribute of the club, and the team will be getting together

during the off season.

‘The club is open to all, and anyone is welcome to come down and have a game,’ she said.

Winners

The men’s A-grade grand final was called off due to a thunderstorm, but Mullumbimby were declared the season’s deserved champions.

The men’s B-grade final was taken out by Lennox Head, while the B-grade women’s competition went to the Ballina Bin Chickens.

‘It was an awesome weekend, we had close to 90 riders all up. It was definitely the best weather we have ever had,’ said Tony Chavez, who has been running the skate competition for nine years.

‘The Ballina Council and the State government got involved with this one and we are planning another for later in the year.

‘We had $11,000 in prize money in total with opengrade winners receiving money. We also had cash prizes for different trick categories’, he said.

Park results

Open Mens’: Rome Collyer, Shaun Boucher, Kai Dowset.

Open Womens’: Felicity

Turner, Haylie Powell, Zahra Johns.

U/15 Female: Bella Clarke

U/15 Male: Archie Simpson, Elliot Burke, Louie Daiguchi.

U/12 Female: Keke Brain, Tanisha Gardner, Layla Trueman.

U/12 Male: Asher Watt, Jude Buchanan, Zion Gallagher.

U/9 Male: Noa Annand, Wayan Jay Walter Cotton, Sunny Burke.

U/9 Female: Ruth Bo

Hojgaard, Freya Brown, Myra Browne.

Junior Bowl results

U/15 Female: Bella Clark.

U/15 Male: Hudson Walker, Noa Barnes and Jacob Hanson.

U/12 Female: Keke Brain, Coco Gillett, Georgia Winn.

U/12 Males: Asher Watt, Zion Gallagher.

U/9 Female: Ivy Raferty.

U/9 Males: Noa Annand, Merrick St Clair, Noa DC.

Byron Bay’s junior cricketers claim premiership after a great season

The Byron Bay U/12s cricket team lifted the championship trophy, after beating Tintenbar-East Ballina in a hard fought grand final played at the Cavanbah centre on Saturday March 25. The team had a successful regular season that set them up for a couple of tough finals according to coach Dougall Pennefather.

‘Byron Bay started the season as one of 16 teams in the Ballina Junior District competition. The young men had a very successful regular season only losing two games from 15 starts. They finished second on the table to Cudgen, in a very powerful competition that takes in teams from Murwillumbah to Ballina and out to Alstonville.

‘The team qualified for a

home semi-final and were able to beat a very strong Cudgen team with a superb bowling effort. This set up

a home grand final against an equally strong TintenbarEast Ballina side.

‘TEB won the toss and

elected to bowl.

‘The openers, Saxon (18no) and Oscar (34no) set the team up beautifully with

a 40-run partnership, this allowed Zavehn (21), Harry (8 retired), Jackson (12) and Tyran(9) to build on the start and get the team to a total of 7/122,’ Dougall said.

‘In reply Byron Bay had a fantastic start removing three of Tintenbar’s gun batsmen in the second over to have them reeling at 3/4. From there, tight bowling by Texas, Saxon, Otis, Jackson and Gil enabled the team to restrict the opposition to 7/106, and claim the trophy.

‘A special mention to Oli and Zavehn for their brilliant keeping’.

Byron bowler, Jackson, collected 2/6 off three overs, as well as a run out and a catch, while Otis claimed 2/8 off his three overs, and also earned a run out.

TEB batter Mitchell top scored on the day with 43 not out.

‘It was a fantastic season where every member of our team contributed at different stages of the season,’ Dougall said.

The U/14 grand final was won by Murwilumbah Tyalgum Red, while the Cudgen Hornets won the U/16s championship.

Team spirit got the Byron Bullsharks over the line during the 2022/23 season finale against the Alstonville Axolotls, held at the Ballina swimming pool. Photo contributed

Byron Bay junior XI: Back row (L–R) Tyran, Zavehn, Dougall (coach), Saxon, Harry and Texas.

Front: Gil, Otis, Jackson, Oscar, Oli , and Jagger. Absent: Atticus and Archie. Photo supplied

There was plenty of aerial action on show at the Fair Go skate contest. Photo SLABZOO Skateboarding

Backlash

Kim, Renee, Emily and Brian get their Mojo going as they set up the Crossroads tent, in preparation for Thursday’s opening night at Bluesfest. Photo Jeff ‘Many in Tents’ Dawson

Thanks to the Space Cowboy, aka Chayne Hultgren, for The Echo’s front page this week. As a renowned multidisciplinary artist, Mr Cowboy is showcasing his latest artworks at the JEFA Gallery till April 18. Titled ‘Here’s to the Good Life’, his vibrant paintings fuse figurative and abstract elements, and are accompanied by immersive augmented reality experiences. Visit www. thejefagallery.com, or www.thespacecowboy.com for more info.

Sorry Mullumbimby residents, east of the disused railway. Council staff have refused to explain whether repairing/ improving your neighbourhood with a Trunk Drain (after being flooded in 2022) is a priority. So much for Council’s claim last week that they are great communicators – See page 9.

Newly minted NSW Premier, Chris Minns (Labor) dropped into Lismore Tuesday to show his government cares about the flood devastation that occurred a year ago. There’s plenty his government can get on with, not the least is ensuring that the bloated bureaucracy the former Liberal-Nationals government created actually delivers something for those displaced.

Those in Suffolk Park wanting to get into gardening, the Community Garden is a perfect place to get to know neighbours and grow your own – email Craig on suffolkparkcommunitygarden@gmail.com to get involved.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has released its February 2023 data, and Master Builders Australia Chief Economist, Shane Garrett, says the volume of first-home-buyer loans has fallen sharply over the past 18 months, and that, ‘First-home buyers now account for less than one-third of home acquisition loans’. Is it time for greedy boomers to be taxed on their massive nest eggs, accrued at the expense of younger generations?

Interest rates paused on Tuesday, meaning that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and the Labor federal govenrment think the poor are just about squeezed enough for the time being, and that if we start losing more of them to homelessness, there won’t be enough fodder to exploit. Happy Easter everyone!