The Northern Rivers Times Edition 153

Task force tackles North Coast youth vaping

BY TIM HOWARD

A task force set up on the NSW North Coast to develop a response to the explosion of young people vaping has held the frst of two community forums.

The North Coast Youth Vaping Taskforce held the frst of two community forums in Coffs Harbour on June 7, with a second to be held in Ballina on June 20.

Task force co-chair

Nicola Kerr said the community response to the frst forum had been heartening with all the stakeholders represented.

“We had people from government, nongovernment, schools and young people there,” Ms Kerr said.

She said one of the disturbing aspects the forum learned from

young people was how easy it was to vape, despite the legal prohibition on the sale of e-cigarettes to under-18s.

“Young people said vaping was very socially acceptable in the teens to early 20s age group,” she said.

She said the growth of youth vaping in just a few years was disturbing.

“In the 16-24 year age group the number of people who had ever smoked an e-cigarette had grown from 21.4% in 2019 to 43.2% in 2022,” she said.

“And in that age group those who are current or occasional e-cigarette users had risen from 4.5% in 2019 to 16.5% in 2022.”

She said this was beginning to indicate the effect of nicotine addiction in that age

group.

“We have data that shows about one in three people who began vaping turn to cigarettes to feed their nicotine addiction if vapes are not available,” she said.

She said young people now made up the highest proportion of the community using vapes.

In 2020-2021, the NSW Population Health Survey found 32.7 per cent of people aged 16 to 24 had used a vape, and 11.1 per cent were current users.

Ms Kerr said one of the main aims of the task force was to support schools in getting information about the health issues of vaping.

“There’s no long-term evidence available yet about the dangers of e-cigarettes,” she said.

“But we know there are

400 poisons of different strengths in every e-cigarette and very high nicotine levels.

“We want to educate parents of young people about these dangers and the long term dangers of addiction.”

Ms Kerr said the packaging of vapes, with bright colours and fruit favours was another concern as it appealed to young people and encouraged them to take it up.

She said the Federal Government’s proposed changes to e-cigarette regulations were also welcome.

“We hope they will address a lot of the ease of access to vapes that we currently see,” she said.

“The issue of vaping across the North Coast requires a coordinated

cross-sector response to tackle it.”

The taskforce recognised the highest users of vapes were young people and has been identifed as a real problem in local communities.

Earlier this month, NSW Health in partnership with NSW Police seized more than $400,000 worth of illicit vapes and illicit cigarettes, as part of compliance activities on the North Coast. The operation removed nearly 8000 vaping units from sale.

The North Coast Youth Vaping Taskforce is a partnership between Mid North Coast Local Health District, North Coast Population and Public Health and Northern NSW Local Health District.

FAST FACTS

• Adults can buy e-cigarettes that DO NOT contain nicotine

• E-cigarettes and e-liquids containing nicotine are a prescription only medicine (over 18 only)

• It is illegal to sell e-cigarettes to anyone under 18

• It is illegal to sell e-cigarettes containing nicotine to anyone (including online sales).

Information about the harms associated with vaping is available at:

https://www.health.nsw. gov.au/vaping

Members of the North Coast Youth Vaping Taskforce Lauren Proudfoot (Health Promotion – Northern NSW Local Health District), Robbie Auld (North Coast Population and Public Health Unit), Nicola Kerr, Melinda Ricketts, Amy Sawyer and Stephen Gammack (Health Promotion - Mid North Coast Local Health District) at the No Vaping Forum held at Coffs Harbour Golf Club on June 7.

BY TIM HOWARD

Kathleen Folbigg, the woman convicted of killing her four children more than 20 years ago, walked free from Comment Clarence Correctional Centre early this month, courtesy of a long over-due pardon.

Long overdue, some might ask, wasn’t the science that cast doubt on her conviction only just confrmed?

Yes, but long overdue because Kathleen Folbigg, who protested her innocence throughout her trial and 20-year jail ordeal, should never have been convicted.

During the trial, the prosecution had no evidence Ms Folbigg had “smothered” her children, as the cause of their death.

But what they did have was her diaries, in which investigators found the smoking gun, which they believed showed she was

capable of murdering her children.

Conscience and coincidence took the place of science and evidence.

The death of four children, all discovered by the mother and the rarity of such events, prepared the ground for the experts to confrm their worst suspicions.

They even had a freshly-minted term for it – Meadows’ Law – named after the British paediatrician Ron Meadows who in 1999 infamously opined “unless proven otherwise, one cot death is tragic, two is suspicious and three is murder”.

It only took a few years for the “law” to unravel, but 81 cases had to be overturned to reveal the faw. Sadly, Kathleen Folbigg’s was not one of them.

What the Folbigg case has revealed is the

impossible standards society continues to set for mothers.

Motherhood as a concept is grounded in the notion of the “maternal bond”, a concept diffcult to defne, but quickly applied.

In Folbigg’s case she did not seem to ft the stereotype of the “natural mother” who wanted to do everything for her children.

The prosecution made her seem ambivalent about her children’s welfare and cherrypicked excerpts from her diaries added weight to this view.

A more rounded view would have looked at both her history – her father stabbed her mother to death when she was 18 months old –and her home life.

In her diaries she wondered if she were “her father’s child”, which prosecutors

jumped on as evidence she could be a killer. There was of course another interpretation that a traumatic event like that could put doubts about their self worth into anyone.

At home her husband Craig was often an absent dad and exhausted and sleep deprived, Ms Folbigg took to her “babble books” as she described her diaries, to write out her trauma.

While the genetic evidence which has led to her pardon has only emerged in recent years, the “evidence” which convicted her could just as easily been interpreted the opposite way.

“Here we are looking at someone’s journal, where [she is] feeling guilty because she couldn’t keep her kids alive,” says Neil Schultz, a psychiatrist and lawyer who helped Folbigg’s supporters. “It doesn’t mean that she bears real

Folbigg pardon long overdue COMMENT

Front cover pohoto Kathleen Folbigg Courtesy of BBC

guilt.”

The jury in 2003 didn’t agree and neither did the 2019 inquiry which seemingly ignored the growing doubts about her guilt.

There is an almost medieval cruelty about her sentencing. After her four children died, she endures a trial where the main evidence of her guilt are manufactured character faws, she is branded Australia’s most hated woman and a serial killer and sentenced to 40 years in prison, most of those to be served, for her safety, in solitary confnement.

Luckily she had good supporters, like

Ms Chapman, who owns a farm between Coffs Harbour and Glenreagh, was at the Clarence Valley Correctional Centre gates to greet Ms Folbigg when she emerged.

She has offered her a place to live and most importantly has promised to help work on making changes to our legal system to ensure this sort of thing never happens again.

That work cannot begin too soon.

Glenreagh woman and childhood friend Tracy Chapman.

AGED CARE TASKFORCE: GREAT EXPECTATIONS

National Seniors Australia welcomes the terms of reference and the announcement of the members of the Aged Care Taskforce which includes former CEO of National Seniors Australia Professor John McCallum. The primary function of the taskforce is to review funding arrangements, including consumer contributions to aged care.

“National Seniors Australia called for an independent body to examine funding in past budget submissions, so we hope this taskforce goes some way towards achieving this goal,” said National Seniors Australia Chief Advocate Ian Henschke.

“Whatever funding model is put forward must be fair, transparent, and effcient. Critically, no older person will be willing to contribute more unless they can be assured, they will receive better and higher quality care.

“There are rightly great expectations from today’s announcement but also trepidation, and it will be up to government to put forward a credible and fair plan and be willing to engage in a conversation with the community.”

National Seniors welcomes the Minister’s recognition that dementia care is

Tweed Regional Gallery to host Picnic and Artist Paint Out

core to aged care with the majority of people in aged care living with dementia. We have long argued that dementia care must be a part of training. National Seniors looks forward to contributing to the development of the Ten-Year Dementia Action Plan. We also need action to address the defciency in palliative care and end of life care.

“We welcome the Minister’s recognition that the workforce shortage remains the biggest issue facing the sector. As National Seniors has said many times before, increased recruitment, better training and retention of workers are the keys to overall success,” Mr Henschke said.

“While the recent 15% pay increase helps, government needs to do more to attract and retain workers. A dedicated mature age traineeship scheme, such as the one trialled in South Australia, will help attract more mature workers to the sector.

“The government must now consider our Let Pensioners Work proposal to reduce the income test taper rate for people in the care sector. This will make it more attractive to keep working past pension age and give care workers more income and savings in later life.”

Pack a basket, throw down your rug and bring the whole family along for a day of art at the Tweed Regional Gallery’s annual picnic gathering on Sunday, June 18, from 2 - 5pm.

The popular annual Picnic and Artist Paint Out will be hosted in the picturesque grounds of the Gallery, overlooking Tweed Valley.

There will be live music, free activities for kids and the opportunity to create art with the stunning views of Wollumbin / Mount

Warning as backdrop. Artists of all levels are invited to bring along their materials and paint in the open, outdoor setting.

Special guest artists Ron McBurnie and Jonathan McBurnie will be on hand to mentor and chat about their work. Participants can also watch them create their own artwork.

The Museum on Wheels (MoW) will also be on site, featuring artworks from Tweed Regional Gallery.

This year, the Gallery

is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Margaret Olley’s birthday.

Olley began her career as a landscapist and loved to paint outdoors. She once stated: “Home is wherever my wicker basket happens to be… and it is always full of paint.”

There will be covered and uncovered areas for artists to work outdoors on the western side of the Gallery.

Apex Dining will serve food and family packs from the picnic ground.

Live music will

feature Moonboat, a duo comprising vocalist Layla Goundrie and guitarist Kingston Chavez, who are inspired by the sounds of the bossa nova and soul music.

They will be followed by Sahar - an Iranian singer-songwriter combining her love of storytelling and poetry with music.

No bookings required. For more information visit gallery.tweed.nsw. gov.au/whats-on.

PAINT OUT: Last year’s participants at the annual Picnic and Artist Paint Out take inspiration from the magnifcent view on offer at the Tweed Regional Gallery.

CLOSE TO $1 BILLION COULD BE INVESTED IN TWEED MALL REDEVELOPMENT

opened up to establish a network of laneways, squares and public spaces.

New connections would link to the neighbouring Jack Evans Boat Harbour and the river foreshore. The spaces have been

Instead of ‘one in fve people’ struggling to fnd a place to call home each night in the Tweed, this should have read ‘Out of the total amount of people sleeping rough in NSW, 20 per cent or one in fve of them, are in the Tweed’.

apologise for this error.

BY SARAH WATERS

TWEED HEAD’S CBD could undergo a huge makeover following bold plans to completely reinvent its main shopping centre.

Concept plans submitted to Tweed Shire Council have revealed the owners of Tweed Mall, Elanor Investors Group, plan to spend $900 million to overhaul the shopping mall and its

surroundings.

Included in the proposed redevelopment is 13 new buildings, up to 15-storeys’ tall, which could potentially house entertainment, dining, retail, recreation and offce spaces.

Residential accommodation, including build-to-rent residential apartments, have also been included in the plans.

The revamped

shopping precinct would be designed with a multi-level ‘green heart’ to provide an open urban space, with a mix of retail, civic and public activities.

It would be set amongst a green backdrop to ‘create a new living breathing precinct’ in Tweed Heads, with gardens, water features and an open canopy roof structure.

The site would also be

designed to be ‘intimate and inviting’ and allow for retail, outdoor dining, recreation, gathering and promenading.

Fresh food market stalls, rooftop dining, yoga spaces, a rainforest room, childcare centre, a 52-room hotel and cinemas have all been

included in the ambitious plan.

The planning documents states it aims to serve the current demographic beyond essential retail needs and provide a social, urban environment that supports the activities of a growing city centre.

‘The current Tweed Mall Shopping Centre is a single-storey development from the late 1990s.

‘It is fanked by three major retailers and three large car parks, which blocks off throughsite connections and provides little to no

A concept image of the ‘Green Heart’, which will be at the centre of the proposed redevelopment of Tweed Mall.

Promenade connecting into thes urrounding parks and public domainImage: Elanor Investors Group

According to the Economic Review and Project Beneft Assessment the Tweed Shire is forecast to continue to experience strong population growth and reach 112,244 people by 2041. This is an increase of around 15,000 people from 2021, or an average of 755 people each year. Dwellings are forecast to increase from 41,487 in 2021 to 50,627, an average of 456 dwellings each year.

public amenity or visual interest.

Architects to devise a ‘design excellence process’ to ensure the Tweed gets the best possible outcome from the strategically important site.

“Located near the gateway to NSW and sitting on the edge of the beautiful Jack Evans Boat Harbour, this large site has the opportunity to deliver an international standard of food and beverage, retail, commercial, entertainment, tourism

Northern Rivers Floods Class Action

Gerard Malouf & Partners (GMP Law) are investigating the impact of the M1 Pacific Highway construction between Ballina and Grafton, and its relationship to the flood damage caused to the Northern Rivers community.

Thousands of people in the community have expressed the view that the M1 Motorway acted as a levee bank. It is alleged that the roadway was constructed in such a way as to aggravate pre-existing flood levels.

‘The site does not integrate itself with the surrounding environment or open itself up to Jack Evans Boat Harbour’.

The Economic Review and Project Beneft Assessment said the proposed development would take place over three stages in a ten-year time frame.

As well as bringing jobs, it will help to support tourism in the region with tourism accommodation included in the redevelopment.

Tweed Shire Council have said at this stage, it is still a concept plan and future stages of the development will require separate approvals.

Given it is a regionally signifcant development, the Northern Regional Planning Panel will be the determining authority, not Tweed Shire Council.

Mayor of Tweed

Shire Chris Cherry said Council had been working closely with the Tweed Mall owners and NSW Government

and residential uses,” Ms Cherry said.

“The city centre is in need of revitalisation, but it is vital that a clear vision, which can be owned by the local community and business community alike, is achieved so as to bring about meaningful change.”

Ms Cherry said it was vital the site was sustainable in terms of traffc, parking and transport opportunities, along with quality amenity for future residents.

“It provides an exciting opportunity to deliver more housing for the Tweed, given its central location, this is a great opportunity to provide homes for our key workers like teachers, police and nurses.”

The Development Application for the staged redevelopment of the Tweed Mall (concept plan) will be on public exhibition until June 28, this year.

Our focus is to uncover the truth and where applicable, bring a claim for the significant damages caused, including future anticipated losses and depreciation in property values. If the infrastructure is found to have been constructed poorly, we anticipate the Governments (both State and Federal) will acknowledge this and provide compensation for all who were a ected.

Art integration into shallow water Image: Elanor Investors Group

NEW PILOT TO SUPPORT YOUTH EXPERIENCING DOMESTIC AND FAMILY VIOLENCE

A frst of its kind pilot to provide holistic, trauma informed and family centred support for accompanied children and young people has received around $5.2 million in funding.

The pilot, which will run across two locations – Dubbo and Blacktown - is funded to June 2026, and has been specifcally designed to support children and young people who are accompanied by an adult seeking assistance for homelessness or being at risk of homelessness due to domestic and family violence.

Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison, said the pilot would ensure wrap around support was extended to the most vulnerable victimsurvivors of family violence.

“When women fee domestic violence with children, it is often an urgent and desperate escape that leaves them feeling confused and displaced,” Ms Harrison said.

“The Accompanied Children’s Support Service will be focussed on addressing the lived experience of children and young people who have survived family violence and help to empower them to regain a sense of control over their lives.

“What makes this program unique compared with other similar funded initiatives is that a multidisciplinary team of fve workers will be onsite to deliver support at both Specialist Homelessness Services.”

Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Rose Jackson, said the pilot was the frst of its kind in delivering counselling, broader mental health and other

supports, along with brokerage to help fund educational programs and social and recreational activities for children who have experienced family violence.

“Many adults who suffer from persistent homelessness had their frst experience of homelessness before the age of 18, highlighting the importance of early intervention,” Minister Jackson said.

“The pilot program support includes culturally safe responses which improve social and emotional wellbeing for Aboriginal children and young people, as well as their families and communities.”

The two locations earmarked to run the pilot program are Dubbo in regional NSW through Orana Support Service and Blacktown in Western Sydney through Domestic Violence Service Management (DVSM).

Orana Chief Executive Offcer Tina Reynolds said the pilot is already supporting 70 children and young people who are currently enrolled in the service.

“Since this pilot began just a short few months ago, we have already had some great outcomes with the children and young people referred into the program,” Mr Reynolds said.

“Being able to pilot this program and provide such an essential service for our most vulnerable victim-survivors of domestic violence demonstrates not only the trust the community and government have in us to deliver this critical work, but also our commitment back to our community to make a signifcant difference in the lives of our regional youth.”

Aviation open day set for take off

BY TIM HOWARD

South Grafton Aerodrome will be a magnet for people inspired by the freedom of fight as the annual Wings and Wheels Open Day makes its return this weekend.

Last year’s foods grounded the 2022 event, but the Grafton Aero Club has opened up the throttle to ensure this year’s event takes off.

The club’s secretary, Kevin Wilson, said the break has allowed club members to work on the area and reported the display areas are in the best condition ever.

He said visitors would not only get a chance to get up close and personal with a wide range of exhibits, but would have the chance to get off the ground too.

“Helicopter joy rides will again be available,” he said. “And there will also be Warbird Adventure fights available in an ex-RAAF CT4 and Winjeel aircraft.”

He said barbecues would be going all day with sausage sandwiches, bacon and egg rolls and

soft drinks available. There will be coffee and tea available in the clubhouse and a coffee cart will be operating plus ice creams and other food trucks.

“For the children, there will be some aviation themed show bags

courtesy of Recreational Aviation Australia as giveaways for the kids,” Mr Wilson said.

“The day is free for all (exhibitors and visitors) however, as always a local charity is chosen and donations are most welcome.”

Mr Wilson said the club had chosen to support the Oncology Department of Grafton Base Hospital to assist them to provide additional support to cancer sufferers and their families.

“Please throw a gold coin or whatever you can afford in to the donation bucket at the aerodrome entrance as you arrive or leave,” Mr Wilson said.

Mr Wilson said as usual there would be displays of terrestrial machinery as well with vintage car clubs and static machinery groups setting up exhibits

“The car clubs and aero club will have static displays of aircraft and motor vehicles in a cordoned off area,” he said.

This year’s Wings & Wheels participants are:

• Grafton Gliding Club

• Coffs C/ex Classic and Touring Car Club

• Coffs Harbour Veteran and Vintage Car Club

• Grafton Vintage Motor Vehicle Club

• Grafton Historical Motorcycle Club

• Grafton Stationary Engines Club

• Grafton GoKart Club

• Tractors

• SES

• Grafton Model Aircraft Club

• Phil Munro with CT4 & Winjeel Warbirds

• Precision Helicopters

• Hot Rod Club The display is open between 10am and 2pm 0n Sunday.

Note: The Northern Rivers Times ran a similar story last week saying Wings & Wheels would be held on June 11. This was incorrect. The highly popular event will be held this Sunday, from 10am to 2pm. The paper apologises for any inconvenience this caused.

The Wings & Wheels open day at South Grafton Aerodrome on Sunday gives people a chance to have a close look at many different types of aircraft.

The layout of this year’s Wing & Wheels Open Day at South Grafton Aerodrome.

For those who want to keep their feet on the ground, there’s plenty of interesting exhibits including vintage cars and static machinery.

RESIDENTS REJOICE AT OPENING OF NEW MACKIE BRIDGE

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg and Member for Page Kevin Hogan today opened the new Mackie Bridge at Rosebank after the existing causeway was destroyed during a storm in December 2020.

Mayor Krieg said the Federal Government funded work was an example of Lismore building back better.

“This is great news for our community. Our specialist bridge crew built the new bridge over Johnston Creek, rather than simply replacing the causeway that was severely impacted last February,” he said.

“This greatly improves the resilience of the bridge to future fooding and reduces the likelihood of members of our community becoming isolated. It also ensures our farmers can get their produce to markets and improves the connectivity across our whole Local Government Area.”

Council’s specialist Bridge Crew replaced the damaged causeway with a new 13.7m x 4.8m single span concrete structure. This new structure founded on concrete bored piles has been designed and constructed to achieve a 100-year design life while improving its food immunity and safety for local farmers and truck drivers.

Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan, congratulated Lismore City Council staff

for their design and construction work on the project, adding that it will provide a far superior all-weather crossing well into the future.

“Mackie Road is an important link for local traffc between Clunes, Rosebank and surrounding areas,” he said.

“I was pleased to be able to assist Council with Federal Government funding for this and other important disaster recovery projects. The new Mackie Road bridge defnitely truly fts the bill of ‘building back better’, as Mayor Krieg has noted.”

Local resident Elizabeth BradfeldGreet wrote to Council before today’s offcial bridge opening.

“A very big THANK YOU for the magnifcent rectifcation & rebuilding works done on Mackie Rd causeway & road edges. We, the residents, are so very very grateful, & now feel 500% safer as we travel along that road leading to our homes.

The new heightened causeway will be a godsend in the future heavy rains - the old causeway cut us off after minimal rain,” she wrote.

“Please pass our thanks along to all involved.”

The $894,400 project was funded under the Federal Government’s Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

New camera technology shaping the future of freight in the state’s north

Using world-frst camera technology, Transport for NSW is continuing to install machine learning traffc cameras across the state, with the state’s north to be part of the program.

The Transport for NSW trial will use new counting and classifying cameras to better understand freight movements to help reduce congestion, improve road safety

outcomes, and encourage more effcient deliveries.

The new technology is seen as another tool that can be used to help manage increasing freight volumes, which are expected to increase across NSW by 28 per cent by 2036 over a 2018 baseline.

The new cameras will be installed at the following locations:

• Golden Hwy Putty Rd/Mitchell Line of Rd,

Whittingham

• New England Hwy, Liddell

• Pacifc Hwy at Raleigh, 1.5km North of Bellinger River bridge. High-defnition pictures of heavy vehicles are taken by the cameras, which are then classifed into the type of vehicle in transit and the type of cargo being transported.

This heavy vehicle traffc information will enable Transport

for NSW to better understand freight movements with the aim of assisting longterm planning for the movement of goods in NSW.

The cameras are not used for enforcement or monitoring people or private vehicles.

For more information including a current list of locations: http://www. transport.nsw.gov.au/ machine-learning .

Long-awaited Rife Range Road upgrade to start in July

Work on the upgrade of Rife Range Road at Bangalow will begin in July, starting with the relocation of electricity infrastructure.

The tender for the $2.9 million project was awarded at the end of last year, and staff are fnalising the work program with the contractor.

Phil Holloway, Director Infrastructure Services, said the project has been a long time coming.

“We had planned to have this project

fnished in 2021-2022 but there were delays because of cost increases, COVID and then the foods, which were refected in the prices we received during the tender process.

“The project is partly funded by the NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads Program, and Council has been working closely with the state government to ensure that costs for the start of construction are managed effectively,” Mr Holloway said.

The Rife Range Road upgrade project includes:

• Widening Lismore Road to allow for a right turning lane into Rife Range Road.

• Drainage upgrades including a new major culvert under Lismore Road to reduce fooding and improve access on Rife Range Road

• A new bus bay and shelter for the northbound bus on Lismore Road

• A new bus bay and shelter for the southbound bus on Rife

Range Road

• Shared paths connecting the bus bays to Tristania Street

• Signage, safety barriers and line marking

The aim of the project is to improve safety for pedestrians, especially children, as well as drivers.

All going well the work will be fnished by January 2024.

Information about the Rife Range Road project is on Council’s website.

Three Byron Shire bridges rebuilt

Three of Byron Shire’s bridges have been completely rebuilt and are fowing with traffc again.

“We are celebrating the completion of three fantastic new bridges for the Byron Shire including Englishes Bridge at Upper Coopers Creek, Upper Main Arm Bridge at

Upper Main Arm and Sherringtons Bridge at the Pocket,” Council’s Director Infrastructure Services, Phil Holloway said. “These were huge individual projects that have delivered a stronger and better network of bridges that are made of reinforced concrete and are designed to withstand future weather events.

“This is a signifcant win for the community, and I thank everyone who worked so hard on the delivery of these bridges, and the local communities for their patience while the work was done,” Mr Holloway said.

The replacement of Englishes Bridge was a $1.8 million project

funded under the Australian and NSW Government’s Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements program. The NSW Government’s Fixing Country Bridges program provided $1.72 million funding for the Upper Main Arm Bridge and Sherrington’s Bridge rebuilds.

Celebrating ‘hope’ for Byron coastline on World Oceans Day

Coinciding with 2023 World Oceans Day on 8 June, the Byron/ Ballina coastline has been recognised as an international ‘Mission Blue Hope Spot’.

The Mission Blue Foundation, a not-forproft organisation that creates awareness of the need to preserve protected marine areas, has named the Byron Ballina coast as one of 153 hope spots in the world.

Zoe White, Council’s Resource Recovery Education and Compliance Offcer, said World Oceans Day is a reminder to everyone in the Byron Shire of the need to preserve and protect the coastal area.

“Hope spots are identifed as being critical to the health of the ocean and we can all play our small parts in protecting our amazing ocean and coastlines,” Ms White said.

“There are 1,000

marine species that live in our salty backyard including the threatened grey nurse shark, along with the humpback whales that are on their annual migration,” she said.

“Byron’s shoreline also provides important roosting and foraging habitat for shorebirds, and is a known breeding ground for several threatened species.

“World Ocean Day is the opportunity to highlight our magnifcent coastline and raise awareness, share ideas and encourage community involvement is a range of different initiatives to protect our local marine environment,” Ms White said.

As an organisation, at a high level, Council is preparing long-term strategic plans for the effective management of the Byron Shire coastline and estuaries.

Council has also

implemented awardwinning campaigns to reduce litter entering the marine environment such as Butt Free Byron Shire, Take 3 for the Sea Byron and more recently Bring it Back Bruns and Source to Sea.

“I am hoping that on Thursday, 8 June 2023, people stop for a moment and acknowledge the amazing ocean on our doorstep,” Ms White said.

“Don’t walk past rubbish – pick it up and put it in the bin because there’s a good chance that it could end up with our turtles, dolphins, fsh, and sea birds in the ocean.

“Thanks to Alice Forrest and Elizabeth Hawkins for their efforts to get the Byron Ballina coast recognised as a ‘hope spot’,” Ms White said. For more information go to the Byron Hope Spot website.

Close to $20 million for Northern Rivers under new Disaster Ready Fund

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn said funding should start rolling out from next month for the local disaster preparedness projects announced in the frst round of the Commonwealth’s new Disaster Ready Fund.

“The NSW Government successfully applied for three local projects for our region under and joint Commonwealth and State funding will provide a total of $19.8 million.

The successful projects covering the Northern Rivers are:

Nature Based Solutions: Building Flood Resilience in Lismore CatchmentWorks to reduce food and erosion risks in the Lismore’s river catchment.

Richmond Landcare.

$5.67million

Fire Country and People: Aboriginal Community Disaster

Ready partnership-

The establishment of strategic partnerships with Aboriginal communities and organisation to reduce the risk and impact of disasters.

Forestry Corporation

$2.95million

Northern Rivers Disaster Adaptation project – a suite of research and development projects to enhance disaster planning, preparations and response capabilities.

Northern Rivers Reconstruction Authority

$11.19 million

It is important that local projects can get underway quickly, and I have been assured the funds will be provided as soon as possible from July 1. Projects must be completed within three years.

The frst round of the Disaster Ready Fund was announced jointly by the Federal

Minister for Emergency Management, Murray Watt; The NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully and the NSW Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib.

I have brought all three Ministers to the Lismore electorate several times and I know they are committed to us being better prepared, less exposed and in the best possible position when disaster strikes.

Minister Watt said that every dollar spent on disaster resilience and mitigation delivers a return on investment to governments and households nine times over.

Information on the next round of the Disaster Ready Fund is available on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) website www.nema.gov. au

$2.8

Million for Nature-Based Flood Mitigation in Lismore Catchment

A small team of volunteers and staff at Richmond Landcare Inc. have been successful in securing $2.8 million in disaster funding for a landmark project that aims to mitigate fooding in Lismore.

A Memoir of Maternity Activism

Title: What does it feel like being born?

Author: Jodie Miller

Publisher: Shawline

Publishing

Price: $22.95

By Samantha Elley

Jodie and her husband have travelled and enjoyed a married life without children, but now she is pushing 30 and despite her resistance, he puts his foot down declaring it’s time to have a family.

us begins the rollercoaster ride that is parenthood. For Jodie, however, her experiences are quite unique from the norm in 1999 as she has access to the only public Birth Centre in South East Queensland. It is one of two in the whole state.

Her rst child’s birth becomes an experience she never forgets and Jodie becomes an advocate for birth reform. She continues

to grow her family, but also takes on the role of supporting others through similar birth experiences.

It is a time and era for a shake up in the business of having babies and Jodie is on the front line, highlighting the need for choice for women. Where onethird of all births are performed by caesarean and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is as high as 10%, midwives and mothers wanting more natural births know they need to ght.

But they have a ght on their hands.

Jodie Miller writes with an easy owing style, allowing the reader to share her birth and parenting experiences, along with the joys and disappointments of ghting for women to choose how their children will be born in the world of maternity activism.

She lives with her husband and family on Brisbane’s rural outskirts.

You can order the book through amazon.com.au

The project, “NatureBased Solutions: Building Flood Resilience in Lismore Catchment”, marks the initial phase of a longterm initiative dedicated to protecting the Lismore Catchment against the consequences of natural disasters, with a primary focus on reducing the risk and impact of foods.

Shaun Eastment, Chair of Richmond Landcare, expressed immense gratitude for the support received from the Disaster Ready Fund, which enables signifcant progress in food resilience and paves the way for a more sustainable and resilient future for the Lismore

community.

Over the course of three years, the project will foster extensive collaborative partnerships, bringing together traditional owners, rural landholders, researchers, bush re-generators, government agencies, and the community at large. This collective effort aims to bridge gaps in our understanding and lay the foundation for implementing these approaches on a larger scale.

By harnessing naturebased solutions for food mitigation, the project seeks to restore the foodplains for future generations while safeguarding the social, cultural, ecological, and agricultural assets in the area.

According to local advocate and Landcare volunteer, Jeremy Stewart, “Slowing water down as it travels

through the catchment above Lismore will lower the food peaks as less water will arrive in Lismore at once.

“Investing in revegetation is not only a cost-effective and effcient option but also provides a multitude of environmental benefts that positively impact the common good, even in non-food conditions.

“This marks a historic moment, as it is the frst time in Lismore’s food mitigation history that investment in catchment health is being linked to an investment in food resilience.” Mr Stewart said.

By actively involving and empowering the community, the project seeks to build long-term resilience, strengthen local ecosystems, and foster a deep appreciation for the natural environment.

Janelle Saffn, State Member for

Lismore, expressed satisfaction with the NSW Government’s decision to support this project, recognizing Richmond Landcare’s reputable track record in riparian restoration with landholders and farmers. “Richmond Landcare is the ideal organisation to continue that work but at scale, which will help build food resilience in our catchment”.

Richmond Landcare is enthusiastic about commencing this crucial project and eagerly anticipates working closely with the Lismore community, local authorities, and other partners to achieve shared objectives and deliver meaningful outcomes.

Nature-based Solutions: Building Flood Resilience in Lismore Catchment is funded by the Australian Government Disaster Ready Fund, Round 1.

The wait is over as the Gold Coast’s longest running painting prize, The Doyles Art Award and Exhibition, offcially opens at Mudgeeraba Memorial Hall, offering the perfect opportunity to purchase original art.

Running until 25 June and featuring over 300 works on display with a prize pool of $30,000 across several categories, The Doyles is considered a signifcant award in the art calendar and event in the community.

Event Director Gillian Grove says the exhibition showcases some unique talents while providing an opportunity for art enthusiasts and the local community to discover original art from new and established artists.

“The Doyles creates a remarkable and limited occasion for people

to directly connect with talented artists and acquire original artworks that are truly captivating,” says Ms Grove.

art that holds personal meaning and beauty.”

Ms Grove says the awards showcases artworks from emerging and established artists,

opportunity to own original art as the Doyles Art Award and Exhibition opens

the artists who have submitted their works and we are encouraging everyone to visit the exhibition and show their support for the art

prize pool, so this is our biggest year yet.

“The increased award fund refects the event’s commitment to supporting and celebrating artists and we hope this prize money will go a long way towards supporting and recognising talent.

“There are also award categories for schoolaged artists as well as a new All Ability Award –which goes to show that everyone is welcome to come along, participate and celebrate all that is wonderful about art.”

Figurative and Still Life. Now in its nineteenth year, the awards feature a prominent judging panel consisting of Mayoress Ruth Tate, internationally acclaimed artist Richard Claremont and Gallery One Director Leanne Pearce.

The exhibition is open from 15 to 25 June, 10am to 5pm at Mudgeeraba Memorial Hall, 62 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba.

“Visiting the exhibition is not only a chance to appreciate the incredible creativity on display, but also a unique opportunity to support artists and bring home a piece of

all vying for a chance to take home a slice of the prize money.

“The artworks displayed are exceptional while refecting the talent and creativity of

community,” says Ms Grove.

“Our landscape category boasts a $20,000 frst prize, which is double from last year and with a $30,000

Named after famous Australian artist d’Arcy William Doyle, the prestigious award is the Gold Coast’s longest running painting prize and carries a prize pool of $30,000 across its three competition categories – Landscape,

The Doyles Art Award has attracted a number of high-calibre sponsors which have been instrumental in the increase in prize money including Bond University, Attwood Marshall Lawyers and SkyRidge Living.

For further details, visit www.thedoylesaward. com.au

TAFE NSW students shine at Nestle Golden Chefs Hat Competition in Grafton

TAFE NSW students have excelled at the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award competition, bringing home eight medals from the live cook-off event, recently held in Grafton.

Eight TAFE NSW students competed at the Regional Cook-Off held at the Grafton campus – achieving fve gold medals and three silver. The medals are awarded based on a point scoring system and the dishes are judged to globally recognised standards.

The Regional and Metro Cook-Offs are still taking place at various locations around Australia and New Zealand – with one winner from each region to proceed to the Grand Final Cook-Off, to be held at Fine Food Australia in September.

TAFE NSW

Commercial Cookery Teacher Bernadette Ryan said she is incredibly proud of the students,

who trained for weeks leading up to the event.

“It was such a rewarding experience for them, and these

they need, to excel in their jobs.”

“These students are the workforce of the future of the hospitality and

pressure.”

Apprentice and Certifcate III in Commercial Cookery student Emmanuelle

experiment and get creative.

techniques I don’t normally use every day.”

incredible results demonstrate the quality of their work – and how much they have learned,” she said.

“This competition is an opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge, connect with the broader industry and demonstrate their talent. We are proud to be involved in such an important event, given our focus is on providing the practical training and real work experience

food services industry, so it’s important they are exposed to situations that test their resolve under

Das-Neves Ramos was a gold medal winner. She said it was a great opportunity to

“I was really able to take all the skills I’m learning through my studies at TAFE and push myself to create dishes that are a bit more ‘out there’ – perfecting

“Competitions like this help to develop your skills in a high stakes

environment. I was able to practice my workfow processes, to ensure each component of the menu was ready at the right time, at the correct temperature.”

“A gold medal in the Regional Cook-Off is a great boost to my resume – and the overall teams result just goes to show what can be achieved if you work hard and have a supportive learning environment.”

TAFE Teacher Philip Caldicott, Emmanuelle Das-Neves Ramos, Illah San Andres, Xander Bogg, Cloud Baillie, Daniel Tasker, Scott Wright, Tyrone Ellis, Jesse Davis, Nestle Judges Andrew McKenzie, Surojit Bhattacharya, TAFE Teacher Bernadette Ryan.

The MSA difference! How the Science of Learning is offering students something mainstream cannot

Written by Ashlee Thomas

Mainstream schools

can make it diffcult for a student struggling in the classroom to keep up with the learning material. Students can become lost in big classes with teachers moving through the overcrowded curriculum at a pace that does not suit them. The student can feel overwhelmed and lost, which is the beginning of affecting their self-worth.

Mastery Schools

Australia offers something mainstream cannot, hope and relief for parents and an educational voice to those who have never had the opportunity to have one.

MSA uses the Science of Learning teaching model to optimise learning for those students who have fallen behind in a mainstream classroom. The Science

of Learning is based on a learning theory that draws on research about information processing.

It is a model that describes how people receive, process and retain knowledge.

MSA’s Executive Director of Learning, Toni Hatten-Roberts, said, “The Science of Learning is a model based on understanding how our brain processes information. So at MSA, it’s about ensuring we support our students from the perspective of understanding how they process information, their working memory and attention control.”

Students who struggle in a mainstream classroom often act out if they feel unheard or unsupported in the classroom. They don’t know how to communicate their lack of understanding, so they behave in a way that expresses their frustration and

distress. This is why individualised support and higher teacher ratios are imperative for meeting the needs of students struggling with their learning.

Master Teacher at MSA, Libby Walker, said, “At MSA, we have very high teacher ratios, so there is a lot of support for the various needs of students and we can target intervention. This level of support transpires into higher student achievement, success and self-esteem for every learner.”

The Science of Learning teaching approach still delivers the Australian Curriculum. However, the delivery of the curriculum centres around meeting students at their level and pace so no student falls behind.

Megan Broderick, a mum of an MSA student, said, “[My son] is just going up and up since coming to MSA. The

school has really helped [my son] believe in his ability to learn and just

If your child is struggling in a mainstream school, you

have a future, and as a mum, it’s so great to fnally see.”

can learn more about the Science of Learning and what that looks

like at Mastery Schools Australia by contacting (07) 5551 4080 or emailing coolangatta@ msa.qld.edu.au

HoneyBee Hives Shines as Finalist in 2023 Australian Rural Business Awards

HoneyBee Hives, a prominent fgure in the Australian beekeeping industry, is proud to announce their selection as fnalists in an impressive six categories of the 2023 Australian Rural Business Awards. This esteemed recognition includes nominations in the Australian Made Small Business Excellence Award, Positive Impact (Making a Difference) Award, Rural Business to Watch Award, Excellence in e-Commerce Award, Micro Business Excellence Award, and Overcoming Odds Award.

Owned by Scott Richardson and Di McQueen-Richardson, HoneyBee Hives is a successful commercial beekeeping enterprise located in Coutts Crossing. They offer a wide range of products and services, including bees, beekeeping equipment and training, all-natural, beeswaxbased balms, educational experiences, and beethemed workshops for all ages.

They recently won three 1st and three 2nd places at the Grafton Agricultural Show for their raw honey and took out the coveted “Best Exhibit” for a frame of honeycomb. Di McQueen-Richardson, from HoneyBee Hives, expressed her exhilaration at being named a fnalist in all six nominated categories. She shared, “We are truly honored to receive this remarkable recognition for our achievements, especially given the caliber of other businesses nominated. Last year, we were also fnalists in all nominated categories and secured

the second-place position in the Excellence in e-Commerce Award. This year, we are hopeful to win the trophy.”

Over the past few years, HoneyBee Hives has faced extraordinary challenges, including devastating bushfres, major foods, the impact of the COVID pandemic, and the threat of the Varroa mite. Despite these adversities, the business has shown resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable beekeeping and raising awareness about the vital role of bees in our ecosystem.

HoneyBee Hives is now calling for your support to claim the prestigious People’s Choice Award. This award holds tremendous signifcance as it refects the collective voice of the community. Your vote can make a meaningful impact on their journey, especially for a small business in the Clarence Valley.

Simply follow the provided link and cast your vote to help propel HoneyBee Hives towards

this esteemed honor. Your support will be greatly appreciated and will contribute to their mission of sustainable beekeeping and positive impact.

Visit www. honeybeehives.com.au for the link to cast your vote. The Australian Rural Business Awards are presented by Australia’s leading online marketplace for rural

Rural Business Awards are shining a light on what small businesses in rural/regional Australia are achieving in business excellence, innovation and sustainability, new business, Australian made and e-commerce. After the success of its inaugural event last year where hundreds of businesses put their hand up for nomination, the awards are once again

response to the awards and are so excited to see how many businesses have been involved. “There is nothing that gives us greater joy than seeing businesses from the bush succeed and to see their passion and determination shine through. We’re also so thankful to our amazing sponsors who have also been inspired by many of our fnalists’ journeys”, say Jenn Donovan and Sarah Britz.

The winners of The Australian Rural Business Awards for 2023 will

and regional small businesses Spend With Us (www.spendwithus. com.au) to celebrate, highlight, and recognise the absolute talent that exists out there in rural and regional Australia.

For the second year running the Australian

bringing out the best of rural and regional Australia. Designed to acknowledge the strength, resilience, and talent of small business owners in rural and regional areas, the awards recognise that businesses in these areas have been through

it all including droughts, bushfres, mouse plagues, foods, a lack of tourism and a global pandemic in the past few years alone. It can be challenging to be a successful small business in rural and regional Australia, and community plays an enormous part in that success. Di McQueenRichardson believes that community has played an enormous part in their business success including Read more at https://www.spendwithus. com.au/the-australianrural-business-awards/

The founders of Spend

With Us have been overwhelmed by the

be announced during an online event on Friday 23rd June 2023 from 7.30 pm. The keynote speaker for the night will be bestselling author Andrew Griffths with another speaker yet to be confrmed. Tickets on sale now for $11 and can be purchased here: https://events.humanitix. com/the-2023-australianrural-business-awards (You don’t have to be a fnalist to attend!)

For more information on the Australian Rural Business Awards please visit https://www. spendwithus.com.au/ the-australian-ruralbusiness-awards/

Richie Williamson with members of the Graf ton Base Hospital Auxilliar

It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ back. ank the Lord (and the lovely Veterinary people) my health is improving daily. To-day I even did a ni y frisk. I used to do swi frisks from our front door, over the grass to the Jacaranda tree and climb to great heights. To-day I only ‘frisked’ and decided it was enough. I’ve had time to think about a lot about ‘stu ’ lately, and asked ‘Mum Jane’ a VIP question. ‘Mum, how come I haven’t heard the frightful complaining you normally go on about with your KNEE pain in days? During my long con nement with ginormous unwellness (and ‘probly delirium) did you per chance, just go out and get a NEW knee without even telling me? What’s the story Mum?’ Oooh, she kinda went into a ‘pondering’ state, but a er a while she did respond to my question. ‘Well, Leems, rstly, NO, I assuredly did not leave your bed side to zip out and buy a new knee. I actually still do have the old one. I did HOWEVER, whilst keeping a 24 hour vigil at your sick bed all these weeks, do lots of reading. Have you, Leems, in YOUR own wide and informed reading, come across ‘ e Distraction eory of Pain?’ I frankly felt this was a truly ridiculous question to ask me. Mum should know by now toward what genre my reading tastes lean. ey may indeed include the word ‘Distraction’ but there is a snowball’s chance in hell

of me reading anything with the word PAIN in the title. (Or THEORY for that matter!) My preferences go toward ‘Bluey’s 1st Encounter with a Cat’. I relayed this to Mum who looked rather crestfallen, but then she kinda smiled and told me ‘that’s OK my ‘Lil Buddie, you can always catch up on your reading can’t you, now that you are feeling much better?’ OMG NOOOO! She blithely continued on before I could even think of an informed reciprocation. ‘Leems, the ‘Distraction eory of Pain’ kinda means that the brain can be used to focus on something else. is is exactly what happened with me and my knee pain when you became unwell. My total mind focus was centred on looking a er you and getting you better, so my pain was isolated to my heart and emotions, NOT my crappy knee.

E.g., my knee pain was kinda relegated to the ‘background’ in my thinking and feeling. Does this make sense to you my beautiful boy?’

(I’ll tell you something else Leems, one of my sisters had been overseas. She called me when she got back and asked how my knee was? Her question made me acutely aware that I had truly ‘forgotten’ about my knee pain whilst you were so unwell.) is may, Leems, be only a ‘temporary’ feeling of ease with my knee, but I certainly was distracted from it during your time of need. Hmmm? I was a little perplexed about all this and felt I should have a small meditative rest before our conversation should continue. I awoke from my repose to hear Mum telling me. ‘Leems, here’s a book for you to read by Norman Doidge, ‘ e Brain’s Way of Healing’. Well, I tell you. I frisked like a champion and was up HIGH in that Jacaranda in 4 seconds. Nite, (& purrsies) Leemo.

Resilient Lands Strategy highlights Richmond Valley housing opportunities

RICHMOND Valley Council has welcomed today’s release of the Northern Rivers Resilient Lands Strategy, saying it aligns perfectly with its own plans to rebuild, renew and reimagine the Valley’s future.

The Resilient Lands Strategy has identified Fairy Hill as a flood-safe housing opportunity.

General Manager

Vaughan Macdonald said over the past 18 months Council had been talking to members of the community about their concerns for the future, and housing and employment came out on top as key priorities.

Mr Macdonald said Richmond Valley was ready to take on a stronger role in the Northern Rivers and Council’s Community Strategic Plan 2024, Delivery Program, Urban Growth Management Strategy and Casino Place Plan provided the important balance between exploring new opportunities for growth and prosperity, and

preserving the unique lifestyle, landscapes and local identify our community loved.

He said the Community Strategic Plan set a pathway for steady, responsible growth, which would provide much-needed homes for local families, more jobs for young people and more services and facilities for our towns and villages.

“The Northern Rivers was in the grip of a housing crisis before the floods arrived,” Mr Macdonald said.

“In the years before the COVID pandemic,

housing construction had slowed, and rentals were already hard to find. Then came the great exodus from the cities, pushing housing prices higher and availability lower - and then the floods.

“The Northern Rivers is now facing one of its highest rates of homelessness, with the most vulnerable members of our community suffering the most.

“That is why we have been focussing on residential supply in and around Casino as this area can accommodate

the main development demand on flood-free land over the next 20 years, allowing for more managed growth in our sensitive coastal and rural areas.”

Mr Macdonald said Council would continue to work with the Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation and key stakeholders to encourage the provision of a wide range of dwelling types to meet the varied and changing needs of the community.

He said new lowmedium density housing, affordable housing and housing for seniors would be a focus for delivery.

“There are many exciting initiatives ahead in the next 20 years as we finish the major works we’ve begun and open new opportunities for our Valley,” Mr Macdonald said.

“Our growth can also contribute to the region’s recovery by providing homes, jobs and a lifestyle so many already enjoy.”

Early bird registration for Lismore Masters Games closes soon

Secure your spot now!

The highly anticipated Lismore Masters Games will be making a grand return from 22 to 24 September this year. This follows a four-year hiatus due to the unfortunate impact of COVID-19 and the natural disaster in 2022.

Registrations for the games are steadily flowing in, with an impressive 34 teams already registered to participate. Interested participants are encouraged to secure their spot before the early bird registrations close on 30 June.

The return of the event has created a buzz throughout the community. This year’s Lismore Masters Games Netball Legend, Tammy Yates-Allen, said she is looking forward to competing and catching

up with friends. Reflecting on her own journey in netball, Tammy said, “I moved to Lismore when I was 12, and it didn’t take long before I became involved in local netball. Coaching at the age of 13 and umpiring at 14, I have now dedicated over 30 years to the local

netball community.”

“The games have always been a highly anticipated event on Lismore’s sporting calendar. They provide an opportunity for individuals who may not have the time to commit to a full season of sport. After a challenging few years, this event offers

a great opportunity to come together, enjoy ourselves and embrace the joy of friendly competition.”

Tammy strongly encourages those thinking about signing up to register, saying, “If you are considering registering, you would be silly not to. The social events and camaraderie the games deliver is not to be missed.”

The Lismore Masters Games cater to a wide range of sports and skill levels, ensuring that everyone can participate and enjoy the event. For more information and to register, visit www. lismoremastersgames. com.au. Secure your place before 30 June to take advantage of the early bird registration discount.

“Leemo has views on just about anything” IT’S ‘DISTRACTION’ THAT MAKES THINGS CHANGE.

Photo Richmond Valley Council

Tammy Yates-Allen

New Tweed Valley Hospital to open in early 2024

A new opening schedule has been confirmed for the $723.3 million Tweed Valley Hospital which is now anticipated to open in early 2024. Since the main works started on the new Tweed Valley Hospital, a number of external pressures have impacted the construction schedule, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the February 2022 floods, construction industry labour shortages and global supply chain interruption. Northern NSW Local Health District’s Acting Chief Executive, Lynne Weir, said the District continues to engage with hospital and community stakeholders to keep them informed of the updated opening schedule. “The hospital’s new opening schedule will ensure there is sufficient time to undertake the important operational

commissioning phase, as well as prepare for the transition,” Ms Weir said. “After construction is completed, there are many commissioning activities which are

essential to ensuring the hospital and its staff are ready to safely receive patients. “These include installing furniture, fixtures and equipment, as well as

completing clinical cleans and stocking departments with medical consumables in preparation for receiving patients. “Our staff orientation, inductions

and training phases are also extremely important, and we look forward to working with our project teams and our workforce to make this process as smooth as

possible.”

Health Infrastructure

and Northern NSW

Local Health District are working closely with the construction contractor as the hospital progresses through the final stages of construction, which is expected to be complete later this year, followed by the operational commissioning. “I want to thank the project and construction staff for their tireless efforts and professionalism throughout this process,” Ms Weir said.

“As a Local Health District, we are collectively excited about what this new hospital means for the delivery of first-class health care to the Tweed Valley community.”

For more information on the Tweed Valley Hospital development, visit https://www. tweedvalleyhospital. health.nsw.gov.au/.

NEWCOLOUR • NEWCOLOUR

to you,

Resilient Clarence digital map now live

The devastating 2019-20 bushfire season was the worst in recorded history for New South Wales.

The Clarence Valley was one of the hardest hit areas, with 168 homes destroyed, and many more homes and properties damaged.

Stories of the bushfires were collected from residents of the ten fireaffected communities of Glenreagh, Ewingar, Nymboida, Dundurrabin, Baryulgil, Malabugilmah, Woombah, Iluka, Ashby and Wooloweyah.

OSCAR Wilde once chimed, “Yes: I am a dreamer. For a dreamer is one who can only find his way by moonlight, and his punishment is that he sees the dawn before the rest of the world.” Which could well have been penned on the birth certificate of Algerian-born Albert Camus, the second youngest ever winner (at 44 years of age) of a Nobel Prize in Literature. And luckily for us, because within 3-years of receiving this accolade he died in a car accident on a quiet back road in rural France.

As such, I often ponder what the next 30 years of a life actually lived might have brought about for such a prodigious man of letters. He being the second child of a wineshipping clerk father who died of shrapnel wounds in WWI (when Albert was only 4-years old) and an illiterate house-keeper, partially deaf mother with a speech impediment. Of which there is something so tragically and yet brilliantly sublime about the life and legacy of literature’s most celebrated ‘outsider’. It was amazing that he came to the fore by way of a childhood spent in a 3-room apartment that belonged to his grandmother with no running water, no electricity and no bathroom in a poor suburb of Algiers.

As a result, such an upbringing typically lends itself to being lost or at least lured into the non-achieving despairs and descending lows of frustration. And yet what it gave rise to for Camus, was a voice that still reverberates above rooftops to point a way to

a promised land, if not a better world where we all get the chance to reside within distinct reach of our hopes and dreams.

Earning his stripes in the most confronting and challenging way, not just as a journalist and celebrated writer, but as a human being amidst the threatening mayhem that was occupied France during WWII.

A one-time soccer goalie ace for his university team, the 1957 winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature – Albert Camus, seems to ever stand guard in defending the revered grounds of human decency against the forces of tyranny that dazzle and impress no one but the dim of mind and the shallow of heart. That no book has been more read in French (the very language that best represents much that is praiseworthy and worth celebrating in art) over the last 100-years than Albert Camus’ The Outsider, is an outright testament to the lasting value and standing of this playwright-apostle of ‘considered’ revolt, and the movement that came to be known as The Absurd.

In the case of his brief life, Albert Camus took literature on a magic carpet ride revealing sights, insights and dazzling flights of fancy the likes no-one had ever dared, albeit cared deeply enough to do in such a way – before or since. Or as he once said, “To save what can still be saved just to make the future possible: that is the great motivating force, the reason for passion and sacrifice.”

These personal accounts of loss and survival, strength and resilience have been collated into an interactive digital map of the region. The Resilient Clarence Digital Map can be viewed on the surface table at the Grafton Library or on the Resilient Clarence page of the Clarence Valley Council website: • https://www. clarence.nsw.gov.au/ Projects/Resilient-

Clarence

Often, stories are very difficult to share, and it can be difficult to speak on camera. So a creative art activity focusing on emotional healing and recovery was created.

The original artwork travelled to each of the bushfire-affected communities and is a collaboration with more than 100 contributors.

The artwork supported community connection events where people could come together to have a hand in creating the imagery, and to share their stories.

Contributions from

every community is represented in this artwork.

“Even in a great disaster, beautiful things can evolve”

- Jen, Ewingar

This artwork is currently on display downstairs at Grafton

converted into a digital form for the interactive map online. It was facilitated by Kerry Speirs and led by the creative directors engaged to deliver the digital map, Blanc Space Agency.

The extensive series

the Resilient Clarence Digital Map has established a valuable resource other people can learn from into the future.

“It has taken an extraordinary amount of courage for many to share the manifestations of their most harrowing times,” Creative Director Hayley Talbot said.

“This project will save lives because of the shared knowledge we have gained.

Library, and has been

of videos contained in

“Stories are what bind us, teach us and enlighten us, and they are what remains when everything is gone. They live in hearts and minds and can never be taken from us.”

Here’s

Mr Camus… by Nigel Dawe

Clarence Valley Council Coordinator Community Engagement, Kath Arndell, demonstrates to Creative Director Hayley Talbot and Mayor Ian Tiley how to use the Resilient Clarence Digital Map on the interactive surface table at Grafton Library.

Creative Director Hayley Talbot from Blanc Space Agency led the storytelling and knowledge sharing component of the Resilient Clarence project.

Northern NSW hospitals perform throughout another busy period

Public hospitals across Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) continued to deliver high quality, timely care to the community amid high levels of activity in the most recent quarterly reporting period.

The latest Bureau of Health Information (BHI) Healthcare Quarterly report (January to March 2023) shows there were 54,913 attendances to NNSWLHD emergency departments.

Acting Chief Executive for Northern NSW Local Health District, Lynne Weir, said staff were providing excellent care to the community in the wake of local challenges.

“After a difficult year following the devastating floods in Northern NSW, our staff and our health system are continuing to put patients at the forefront of all we do,” Ms Weir said.

More than 7 in 10 patients (74.6 per cent) started treatment on time, which is better than the NSW state average (67.4 per cent), and the third consecutive quarter of improvement for the District.

More than 8 in 10

patients (81.1 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark, which is better than the state average (77.7 per cent).

The majority of patients (72.5 per cent) left the ED within 4 hours, also better than the NSW average (58.2 per cent).

“Our new Patient Flow Unit continues to improve the transfer of patients throughout our hospitals, placing patients in the right place for the right care, at the right time,” Ms Weir said.

A total of 3,530 planned surgeries were performed across the region, with nearly all urgent planned surgery (94.9 per cent) performed on time.

“We are continuing to collaborate with private hospitals in the region to provide additional surgical care to our residents,” Ms Weir said.

“Our teams have worked incredibly hard to increase our surgery capacity, resulting in no Category 1 (Urgent) procedures being overdue at the end of the March 2023 quarter.”

“We have also seen significant reductions in

the number of overdue Category 2 and 3 cases in 2023.”

Any patients who feel their condition has deteriorated while waiting for their procedure are encouraged to contact their treating doctor for a clinical review.

The 2022-23 budget for Northern NSW Local Health District is more than $985 million, an increase of more than $40 million, or 4.3 per cent more, on the previous year’s budget.

INDIVIDUAL HOSPITAL RESULTS

BALLINA DISTRICT HOSPITAL had 4,514 ED attendances during the quarter. The majority of patients (70.1 per cent) started their treatment on time.

More than seven in 10 patients (74.5 per cent) left the ED within 4 hours. More than 8 in 10 patients (84.3 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark.

BYRON CENTRAL HOSPITAL had 5,908 ED attendances and 8 in 10 patients (82.8

per cent) started their treatment on time, which is better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (78.4 per cent). Nearly all patients (95.5 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark, also better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (93.9 per cent).

CASINO & DISTRICT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL had 3,463 ED attendances in the quarter. The vast majority of patients (84.5 per cent) left the ED within 4 hours of arriving, which is better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (79.3 per cent). More than 9 in 10 patients (92.9 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark.

GRAFTON BASE HOSPITAL had 6,961 ED attendances during this quarter. The majority of patients (68 per cent) started treatment on time, and almost 7 in 10 patients (69.3 per cent) left the ED within 4 hours,

which is better than the average for comparable hospitals in NSW (64 per cent). Almost 9 in 10 patients (89.7 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark.

LISMORE BASE HOSPITAL had 9,848 ED attendances during the quarter. The majority of patients (61.2 per cent) started treatment on time. More than 7 in 10 patients (77.2 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark, which is in line with the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (77 per cent ).

MACLEAN DISTRICT HOSPITAL had 3,957 ED attendances during the quarter. More than 8 in 10 patients (83.8 per cent) started their treatment on time, which is better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (78.4 per cent). Almost 9 in 10 patients (89.7 per cent) left the ED within 4 hours, which is significantly better than the average for comparable hospitals in NSW (79.3 per cent).

Nearly all patients (93.1 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark.

MURWILLUMBAH DISTRICT HOSPITAL had 4,578 ED attendances during the quarter. The majority of patients (85.8 per cent) started their treatment on time, which is better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (71 per cent). More than 8 in 10 patients (84.6 per cent) left the ED within 4 hours. Almost all patients (96.3 per cent) were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark.

THE TWEED HOSPITAL had 13,694 ED attendances during the quarter. More than 7 in 10 patients (79 per cent) started their treatment on time, which is better than the average for hospitals of a similar size in NSW (64.6 per cent). Almost 7 in 10 patients (69 per cent) left the ED within 4 hours of arriving, which is also better than the average for comparable hospitals in NSW (53.9 per cent).

PEST ANIMAL CONTROL TO HELP THREATENED SPECIES IN THE TWEED

Foxes and hares to be targeted across the Tweed Coast

Pest animal control works will commence across Tweed coastal areas from tonight after a successful program in previous years.

Recent camera monitoring has recorded pest animal activity in the coastal bushland areas at Fingal Head, Kingscliff, Hastings Point and Pottsville.

Species recorded on the cameras have included foxes and European hares, which have both been introduced to Australia.

Control works started on Tuesday 6 June and continue until Friday 16 June 2023.

A highly experienced specialist contractor will carry out all works to reduce the pest animals in the local area.

Council’s Program Leader - Pest Management Wildlife Protection Pamela Gray said it was crucial to the Tweed’s native wildlife to reduce pest animal numbers, particularly foxes.

“Foxes are predators and seek out nests, eggs and attack local wildlife. It’s especially important to protect the Beach Stone-curlews at Hastings Point and

Fingal Head who are at risk of local extinction,” Ms Gray said.

Signs warning the public about restricted access will be in place at formal entrances to trapping and control sites across key locations at Fingal Head, Kingscliff, Hastings Point and Pottsville.

“Access to control and trapping sites is prohibited for community safety,” Ms Gray said.

“Please ensure you and your pets do not enter

NEW COMMUNITY HALL A CREDIT TO YAEGL COMMUNITY

The brand new Nungera community hall located at the Hillcrest Aboriginal community in Maclean is a credit to all involved and will serve the community well into the future, according to Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson who officially opened the building this morning. Mr Williamson said it was a terrific day to be on Yaegl country because what was an old, dilapidated building is now a modern and welcoming facility that will deliver many benefits to the local Aboriginal

community.

“This new building is a tremendous community asset that will stand the test of time. It is something the local Aboriginal community should be very proud of,” Mr Williamson said.

“I’m really pleased the former NSW Nationals in Government was able to provide $134,000 in funding to help with the rebuild and congratulate the Nungera Co-operative Society Ltd on its successful funding application.”

these areas as traps are camouflaged and can be extremely difficult to see.”

Foxes have caused major declines in native animal species in Australia. This control program aims to reduce fox numbers to protect native fauna, including koalas and threatened birds such as the Bush Stone-curlews.

European hares graze on native plants and can impact on the natural recovery of disturbed bushland areas

and destroy habitat restoration plantings.

Pest animal control will take place between 7 pm and 5 am from Tuesday 6 June to Friday 16 June at the following locations:

Fingal Head: Control works will take place on private land at Letitia Spit, Fingal Head. This area will be temporarily closed during this time.

Kingscliff: Access to bushland in the coastal Crown reserve at Sutherland Point (Cudgen Headland)

may be restricted each evening during this time.

Bogangar to Hastings Point and down to Pottsville: Control works will be carried out in the Crown reserve bushland areas along the coast from the Goanna Track at Bogangar (opposite Les Burger Fields) to Cudgera Creek, Hastings Point and from Yugari Drive, Hastings Point to Elfran Ave, Pottsville. Areas will be temporarily closed when works are

underway. Yugari Drive (the road up to Hastings Point Headland) may be temporarily closed each evening.

Pottsville: Pottsville Environment Park will be temporarily closed to public access each evening when works are underway. Control works will also be undertaken at Pottsville Wetland (Kellehers Road) and Cudgerie Creek Bushland Reserve.

Public access to all locations is prohibited during the dates and times advised on signage. Penalties apply for non-compliance.

If any domestic pets are inadvertently caught in traps, they will be taken to Council’s temporary animal pound. Collection can be organised by calling 02 6670 2400 with impounded animals able to be viewed at tweed.nsw.gov.au/tweedpound.

Anyone with questions about these works can contact Council’s Program Leader - Pest Management Wildlife Protection on 02 6670 2400.

For more information about foxes, visit tweed. nsw.gov.au/foxes.

Pest animal control works will commence across Tweed coastal areas this week after a successful program in previous years.

2024 EXPLORE SRI LANKA GROUP TOUR

Departure Date: 18 February 2024

$4,600 per person

Single Supplement - $1,100

A smiling sun all year round, golden beaches, ancient cities, exciting safaris, colourful culture, adventure sport and lovely people! Few places in the world can offer you such a remarkable combination of stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, captivating cultural heritage and unique experiences including 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites! Visit an animal sanctuary, enjoy a Jeep safari in Yala and Wasgamuwa National Parks, take a train ride from Kandy to Nanuoya, visit tea and cinnamon plantations, have High Tea at the Grand Hotel and enjoy a traditional Ayurveda massage! This tour lets you truly explore Sri Lanka! Sit back and travel in comfort, everything taken care of with this escorted small group.

Price Includes:

Fully escorted tours are escorted by a Director, member of staff or trusted traveller from Casino Travel Shoppe!

• Home/airport pick up and delivery from the Northern Rivers & surrounds

• All transport including return airfares in economy class

• Quality accommodation

• Sightseeing entry fees and tipping (excludes driver and guides)

• Breakfast & dinner daily, 3 lunches plus a High Tea

10 reasons to visit Sri Lanka

Why Visit Sri Lanka?

This South Asian Island offers unparalleled experiences through its rich history, diverse cultures, spectacular wildlife, and stunning landscape making it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations. Additionally, this location offers thrilling safaris to go on along with delicious cuisine to taste and beautiful weather to enjoy. Whatever it is that you are searching for can be found in Sri Lanka

1 Incredible Wildlife.

An ideal destination for those seeking a thrilling safari adventure outside

cuisine offerings alongside art exhibitions (the nation observes almost 25 national holidays annually), thereby providing numerous occasions for people to come together.

3 Unique Cultural Heritage

For many years now this island has drawn in traders from different parts of the world, divided into ancient kingdoms for many millennia. The colonization of Sri Lanka started with the arrival of Portuguese in 1505 followed by Dutch and British before gaining independence fnally

happens to be a variety of tea that remains quite popular even today.

In Sri Lanka’s tea country lies an expanse of beautiful undulating green hills and lush plantations, and among the limited number of places that still harvest tea by hand on earth lies this particular location. Inhale the fresh highland air as you learn about traditional methods and savour premium brews

5

Amazing Local Food

Due to its status as a land of cinnamon and spices, Sri Lankan cuisine boasts a delectable taste and this region’s cuisine stands out for its distinctive taste which has been affected by neighbouring nations as well as diverse cultural infuences that are evident here.

lush tropical paddies.

7 Untouched Beaches

Africa would be Sri Lanka which has an impressive collection of captivating animals. Yala national park is your destination for spotting elusive leopards whereas remote Gal Oya national park is ideal for seeing Asian elephants swimming and socializing.

Sri Lankan safaris offer sightings of various animals including wild boar, buffalos, toque macaques, sloth bears, and crocodiles as well as numerous other species.

2

The People.

In both Sri Lanka and much of the Indian Subcontinent most locals are welcoming to visitors, and the calm and laidback atmosphere of this place makes it an ideal destination for travellers who want to explore its charms at their own leisurely pace in peaceful surroundings.

In Sri Lanka there are countless methods for making visitors feel at ease, as the Sri Lankan culture is one of hospitality and vitality which they exhibit by organizing festivals featuring music performances as well as

in the year of our Lord nineteen forty-eight

A culture that is rich and diverse has been created as a result of this history in which ancient traditions are mixed with more modern heritage. Additionally, both Sri Lanka’s coastal cities and capital Colombo exhibit a unique blend of cultural infuences through the mix of ornate ancient temples with grand colonial buildings.

Locally sourced produce such as fsh and rice take centre stage in many Sri Lankan meals, and their culinary tradition places signifcant emphasis on seafood - picture yourself delighting in recently captured prawns, squid, cuttlefsh, and lobster while taking in the mesmerizing ocean view.

6 Epic Train Journeys. By opting for a train ride, you can discover one of the best ways to explore Sri Lanka as there are several fantastic rail routes in the country which transport you through bustling cities, dense forests, deep valleys and surf towns, promising incredible views as well.

In Sri Lanka you can fnd plenty of lovely beaches, whether you’re seeking out tranquil surroundings amidst nature’s beauty or craving energetic parties by the sea. Love experiencing thrilling

with little precipitation. The most suitable period of time for a trip to Sri Lanka relies solely on your interests. For those interested in a beach getaway aim for travel dates of November to March; however, for those seeking wildlife opt for May through October.

popular route is Adam’s Peak among many others. Even though ascending this mountain can prove quite strenuous at times, its splendid vista is defnitely worth every single step. The best way to see orange and pink light at sunrise while standing above clouds without getting too hot is by starting early.

4

Flourishing Tea Plantations

Sri Lanka managed to become the fourth largest global producer of tea by planting its frst ever tea bush here back in 1867, and its former name was actually Ceylon which

Choose wisely and make your single train journey count by taking the trip from Colombo to Kandy, from the hustle and bustle of Sri Lanka’s largest city to the peaceful cultural capital take a journey down this historic route that passes by charming villages nestled among

water activities like surfng and snorkelling? No need to fret! There is always an ideal sandy beach spot waiting just for you. If you want to see stunning beaches with golden sands and lots of palm trees then head over to this country’s western or southern coastlines Known as an eclectic outpost with an imposing colonial fort and vibrant streets, Galle - the main town of this area, is where you’ll fnd traditional ‘stilt fshermen’ who have been catching fsh by perching above water for decades.

8 Tropical Climate.

The weather in Sri Lanka is always wonderful no matter what time of year you choose to go, and amongst all other countries in the world, this happens to be one of the warmest. While it is common for the central highlands to experience heavy rainfall; The northern and eastern areas usually face hot weather

9 Scenic Hiking Trails

On-foot exploration is the perfect way to appreciate the never-ending natural beauty of Sri Lanka, and

10 Luxurious Escapes. Whether you’re in a city or a region within this country there is no shortage of amazing places to stay, such as The Wallawwa outside of Colombo where it sits in the midst of tropical gardens. This is an elegant colonial manor house worth seeing located in the heart of tea country and another historic spot is Thotalagala - a restored planter’s bungalow that offers only seven sumptuous suites. Amanwella close to the

the Cultural Triangle is a must-go destination for those who enjoy beautiful vistas and culturally rich landmarks. Here at this spot is where you will fnd Sigiriya - an incredible palace and fortress complex perched atop a rocky plateau that you can ascend.

It’s highly advisable to take a trek through the scenic tea hills, and one

coastal town of Tangalle provides a great option for an exclusive beach retreat. Additionally, experience an ocean-side safari adventure at Chena Huts where you’ll fnd yourself among both sea turtles and elephants – plus it’s only a short distance to explore the stunning reefs alongside scenic forests or visit nearby national parks.

Welcome to Secret Lake

Secret Lake Retreat is a great place for a relaxing camping holiday, where lasting memories are made - with modern amenities, a beautiful lake and serene Aussie bushland. We are located only 10 minutes drive from Lawrence.

Opening recently, we are a small family-run business in the Clarence Valley, and provide lakeside and bush sites for swags, tents, caravans, motorhomes and anything in-between! Our campground is set around a 60 acre private lake where we offer lakefront and bush sites.

Secret Lake Retreat is not a traditional caravan park and offers a bit more comfort and style than other primitive campgrounds. We have what you need for a very comfortable stay including, camp kitchen with BBQs, sinks, microwave, electric kettle, hot showers and fushing toilets.

Worried you will get bored? Don't worry, we have you covered there too with Kayaks available for use free of charge, infatable tyre tubes, communal fre pits scattered around the grounds, catch and release fshing, bush walking and bike riding tracks and much more. There is over 800 acres of bushland to explore, abundant wildlife and birdlife, sandstone outcrops, waterholes, seasonal creeks; this is the perfect destination for a getaway. At Secret Lake you can do as much or as little as you want!

Secret Lake is pet friendly so your furry family members don't have to miss out either. Book yourself a site through our easy to navigate website www.secretlake.com.au and come see for yourself, you can also check us out on Instagram and Facebook.

Facilities

Bush and Lakeside campsites

Private 60 acre lake, bull shark and bullrout free, without strong currents or tides and safe for water activities

• New modern amenities block with fushing toilets, hot showers and camp kitchen that is equipped with under cover seating, BBQs, electric Kettle, Sinks, microwave and cooking utensils

• Bush walking and mountain bike riding through over 20km of existing bush tracks

• Bird watching and wildlife spotting

• Water activities - Kayaks, canoe, water mats, pool noodles and tyre tubes free for use

• Bush volleyball court

• Lake is stocked with silver perch, golden perch and bass for catch and release lure fshing. Try to beat our current personal best Bass at 55cm!

• fre pits

• Pet friendly

• Easily accessible, only 2.1 km unsealed road - all wheel drive accessible

• 10 minutes from Lawrence where there is Lawrence Tavern for amazing counter meals and a well-stocked General Store for all your needs, including its very own coffee and food truck

Ad campaign backs Same Job Same Pay laws to close labour hire loopholes

The Mining and Energy Union is today launching an advertising campaign to support the Albanese Government’s proposed Same Job Same Pay laws for labour hire workers and challenge mining company scare campaigns.

The print, television and social media campaign will continue until the new laws pass Parliament.

MEU General Secretary Grahame Kelly said that despite mining company fearmongering, Same Job Same Pay laws would be good for the industry.

“Mining companies are notorious for throwing their weight around when governments propose changes requiring them to act in the community’s best interests.

“But Same Job Same Pay will be a positive for

mining because it will end a rort affecting the workers and regional communities that sustain the industry.

“Same Job Same Pay will improve wages and conditions for labour hire workers and prevent them being treated as second class citizens. It will strengthen collective bargaining by ensuring

companies stick to their end of the bargain. And it will be great for regional communities who lose out when big employers cut wages for half the workforce.”

Mr Kelly said that over the past decade, big mining companies have replaced thousands of good, permanent mining jobs with insecure,

lower-paid labour hire jobs, cutting wages while their profits have grown.

He said Same Job Same Pay laws would close the loophole that allows companies to avoid paying the wages and conditions negotiated under site Enterprise Agreements by outsourcing jobs to labour hire companies

paying barely above the legal minimum.

The practice means that on many mine sites, labour hire workers are paid from $30,000 to $50,000 a year less than permanent workers for doing the same job. Workers in other industries including transport and manufacturing are also

affected.

“We know that workers in industries apart from mining are also the victim of labour hire loopholes, being paid less than permanent employees performing the same job.

“We encourage all workers who want to end this rort to get on board and help make sure Same Job Same Pay becomes a reality.”

The ads have started airing today and the campaign is being officially launched at Parliament House in Canberra, where a delegation of MEU coal mineworkers has been briefing MPs about the misuse of labour hire and the need for Same Job Same Pay laws. The campaign will include events in regional areas in the months ahead.

Small businesses given unique opportunity to get back on track with tax

The ATO is encouraging small businesses with overdue income tax returns, fringe benefits tax returns or business activity statements to rectify this promptly. To get their lodgements on track, they ought to use the opportunity of a new amnesty.

Amnesty was declared during the 2023-24 Budget. This applies to tax obligations that were due during the period ranging from December first, two thousand nineteen through February twentyeighth, two thousand and twenty-two. June through December of the year twenty-three is when this event occurs.

A small business can benefit from amnesty only if its aggregated turnover did not reach or surpass $10 million by the time when the original lodgement should have been submitted. The ATO has launched an initiative aimed at encouraging small businesses to come forward about any unpaid or overdue tax liabilities, with no penalties incurred.

Small businesses that qualify can submit their overdue forms during this period. The ATO will

automatically remit any FTL penalties that may arise.

The amnesty is an opportunity for small businesses of fulfilling their tax obligations and return to compliance as urged by ATO Assistant Commissioner Emma Tobias. They must do so if they have fallen behind.

The pandemic and natural disasters have made things difficult for numerous small businesses over the past few years. We recognize that certain responsibilities, including filing ATO forms and securing lodging, might not have received sufficient attention. Still, it is significant to return to meeting tax obligations. These forms must be lodged without

exception; hence our amnesty plan strives to facilitate the procedure for affected small enterprises and aid them in their recovery.

The submission of forms under the amnesty means that businesses or their tax professionals will not have to separately request a remission of FTL penalties.

Lodge your outstanding tax returns or activity statements and let us take care of the FTL penalty remission on our end. Your account may incur a brief FTL penalty, but rest assured that we will waive it.

In addition, Ms. Tobias highlights that outstanding lodgements may demonstrate a low level of interaction between small businesses and the tax system.

This might indicate a problem.

Businesses should lodge any overdue forms, irrespective of whether they are eligible or not. In cases where forms fall outside of amnesty eligibility criteria and attract FTL penalties, the ATO considers each person’s unique situation. It’s possible to waive these fines individually.

We comprehend that a few small businesses might feel anxious about paying off an overdue lodgement. If you cannot pay your debt in full, we can collaborate with you or your authorized tax/BAS agent. We can discover a suitable remedy for you.

The objective is to streamline the process and prompt small businesses towards

ethical behaviour. We recommend that you contact your registered tax or BAS agent now. Ensure that your tax affairs are current.

Ms Tobias mentioned that taxpayers must fulfil their obligation of submitting overdue forms during the amnesty period and they will receive support from us to ensure compliance.

The ATO provides various support options, such as payment plans. Small businesses too have the ability to create their personalized online payment plans.

In case a business stops trading, it is necessary to inform either the registered tax

professional or the ATO directly, as Ms Tobias clarified.

The amnesty is applicable to business activity statements, fringe benefits tax returns, and income tax returns. The exclusions include superannuation obligations and other administrative penalties like those under the Taxable Payments Reporting System.

More information is available on:

• Small Business Lodgement Penalty Amnesty Scheme

• Help with paying

• Modifying, halting, terminating, or marketing your enterprise.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

CASINO

NRLX MARKET REPORT

WEEK ENDING FRIDAY 9 JUNE

Agents yarded a total of 733 head at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange regular prime sale on Wednesday 7 June. Quality was mixed, although there were several pens of well presented young cattle through the sale. The yarding of young cattle consisted mainly of vealers and weaners, along with a few pens of light yearlings. The market improved

GRAFTON

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DONOVAN LIVESTOCK & PROPERTY PH: 02 6643 4411

GRAFTON FAT CATTLE SALE 06/06.2023

415TOTAL HEAD YARDED 190 EXPORTED

225 YOUNG CATTLE

A fair quality yarding was on offer this week, all categories were well represented. Not all the usual Export processors operated, however the market was frm for both Bullocks & Cows. Young cattle saw mixed results, with both Steers & Heifers over 300kg selling quite strong, whilst Weaners saw mixed competition which was mainly quality related. Off quality types were very hard to shift

WARWICK

with restocker buyers showing a little more interest this week, especially on the well bred steers in good 2 score condition.

Cow prices saw a slight drop on last week averaging 165c/kg and reaching a top price of 212c/kg. Heifer prices held frm with an average of 209c/kg and $501 and top of 320c/kg and $1,645. Bull prices were stronger with 8 head sold averaging 202c/kg and $1,217. Steer prices also saw an increase with an average of 303c/kg and $731 and top of 364c/kg and $1,206. A small number of bullocks sold on the day averaged 221c/kg and reached a top of

FORTHCOMING SALES

SATURDAY 17TH JUNE 2023 – CLEARING SALE, 10:00AM, 510 BUCCA ROAD BUCCA NSW

TUESDAY 20TH JUNE 2023 – GRAFTON FAT

CATTLE SALE, 8:00AM, GRAFTON SALEYARDS

SATURDAY 24TH JUNE 2023 – HILLVIEW

HEREFORDS & TYLER ANGUS BULL SALE, ON PROPERTY

TUESDAY 27TH JUNE 2023 – GRAFTON FAT

CATTLE SALE, 8:00AM, GRAFTON SALEYARDS

SALE HIGHLIGHTS

GRAFTON FAT CATTLE SALE TUESDAY 6TH JUNE 2023

market still in limbo.

Vealer steers av 301.4c/kg topping at 400.2c/kg or $738.66 to $1208.13

230c/kg.

Ray White Rural held a store sale at the NRLX on Friday 9 June with 818 head going under the hammer. Steers topped their category at 392c/kg and averaged 324c/kg and $797 whilst heifers reached a top of 304c/kg and averaged 224c/kg and $530. Cows reached a top price of $1,880 whilst cows & calves topped their market at $2,200. PTIC heifers reached a top of $1,220.

George & Fuhrmann will hold a store sale at the NRLX on Friday 16 June with 2,300 head expected. Further bookings are welcome!

A/c DW & LF Green sold Angus Cross Bullocks 250c/kg averaged 752kg - $1,880.0 p/hd

A/c Nattai Investments sold Brahman Cross Cows

211.2c/kg averaged 648kg - $1,368.58 p/hd

A/c LD Holdings sold a Droughtmaster Cross Cow 215.2c/kg weighed 580kg - $1,248.16

A/c RJ & AG Oxenbridge sold Hereford Cross Cows 213.2c/kg weighed 677kg - $1,444.43 p/hd

A/c B Ellem sold Hereford Cross Steers 338.2c/kg weighed 345kg - $1,166.79 p/hd

A/c RJ & AG Oxenbridge sold Hereford Steers 332.2c/ kg weighed 343kg - $1,140.55 p/hd

A/c JH Elder sold a Hereford Steer 300.2c/kg weighing 310kg - $930.62

A/c Paul Brotherson sold Brangus Heifers 242.2c/kg weighed 266kg - $645.87 p/hd

A/c RJ Smith sold Angus Heifers 248.2c/kg weighed 236kg - $587.92 p/hd

to $2691.78

MC

DOUGALL & SONS LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK WEEK ENDING

9/06/2023

Smaller yarding’s were the norm this week for most of the sales, the prices available as well as the Farmfest presentation taking a few clients away from the market. The Cattle numbers were similar to last week , Sheep and Lamb numbers were back considerably with the markets still not up to the usual performances for this time of the year. A lack of confdence going forward for the backgrounders as well as the lack of orders through the usual supply trains still giving a bleak outlook as we move into winter.

Cattle numbers were at a total of 713 head with the

WARWICK

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

The numbers tumbled this week, as the numbers went down the prices started to rise. The lambs were mostly in the processing or trade types with a lower percentage of trade or feed on lambs. Mutton and lamb numbers were almost a 50/50 split. The good trade and export lambs were up by $10 with lambs topping at $154 and averaging $121.37 ($34up), hoggets topped at $127 and averaged $127($5up),Ewes topped at $110 to average

Vealer heifers av 218.8c/kg topping at 284.2c/kg or $474.20 to $792.66

Feder steers av 288.1c/kg topping at 320.2c/kg or $1109.55 to $1365.00

Feeder heifers av 235.4c/kg topping at 271.2c/kg or $841.13 to $1100.00

Yearling steers av 301.8c/kg topping at 406.2c/kg or $735.88 to $1088.00

Yearling heifers av 218.1c/kg topping at 354.2c/kg or $588.18 to $1295.58

Steers av 260.2c/kg topping at 310c/kg or $1617.00 to $2002.99

Heifers av 229.6c/kg topping at 270.2c/kg or $1039.95 to $1648.42

Cows av 164.9c/kg topping at 212.2c/kg or $865.06 to $1608.20

Bulls av 203.8c/kg topping at 268.2c/kg or $696.17

$65.90($3up), wethers topped at $105 to average $63.55 ($23down), rams topped at $45 to average $45 ($6down), Lamb rams topped at $70 to average $52.65 ($33down), ewe lambs topped at $53 to average $44.83 ($92down). The sale average of $89.04 was $5/head dearer than last week’s sale.

Stillwater Past Co sold Dorper lambs 49.5kg and 48kg to Warwick Meats for $149 and $148

Fomo sold Dorper ewes to Eversons for $85

Palmer Steel sold Dorper lambs 52.2kg to Warwick Meats for $153, 49.3kg to Tonys supa Meats and Eversons for $146

Leslie Carpenter sold Dorper x lambs 45kg to

Sheep & Lamb numbers fell considerably with a total of 1026 head yarded. The market was frm to a shade dearer across the board for most categories.

Lambs topped at $154 to av $121.37 up $34/head Hoggets topped at $127 to av $91.66 up $5/head Wethers topped at $105 to av $63.55 down by $23/ head

Lamb rams topped at $70 to av $52.65 down by $33/ head

Sale total of $1026 head averaged $89.04 up by $5/ head average week on week.

Boars sold to $140, Sows from $120 to $140,Baconers sold to $160, Pork sold to $190, Light Pork sold from $164 to $179, Stores sold from $55 to $185.

Roosters sold to $15, Hens to $17.50, Pullets to $22.50, Ducklings to $32, Drakes to $25, Ewes topped at $110 to av $65.90 up $3/head

Highchester Meats for $130, 60kg hoggets to Eversons for $100

Barry Unold sold Dorper lambs 50kg to Eversons for $130, 40kg lambs to GR Prime for $80

Athol & Kerrie Esserey sold Meatmaster x lambs and ram lambs 50kg to Eversons for $70, 50kg hoggets to Everson’s for $60, Ewes to Eversons for $70

Rory & Kathy Frost sold Dorper lambs 43kg to GR Prime for $141

HLH Holdings sold Aussie White x lambs 47kg to Eversons for $114, 41kg to restockers for $101, Lamb rams 37kg to GR Prime for $60, 37kg lambs to restockers for $65

from front page of Rural News

Australia’s top peak food industry bodies, which calculated the food supply chain was short at least 172,000 workers, from paddock to plate, before the Jobs & Skills Summit last September say limited progress is now weighing on both GDP growth, and the cost of household’s weekly shop.

Figures released yesterday confrm Australia’s GDP growth has slowed to a crawl. Meanwhile the food supply chain which represents more than 10% of GDP is operating at reduced capacity due

to workforce constraints.

Farmers, food suppliers, distributors, independent supermarkets, grocers, butchers, food processors and hospitality are all sending a united message: if you want a stronger economy, just add workers.

With almost 80% of Australians concerned about the price of food, labour shortages are, from a ‘cost of business’ perspective, one of the contributing factors to food price increases to the consumer as well as the ability to process and move food along the supply chain.

The ‘National Food Supply Chain Alliance’

represents over 160,000 businesses with a revenue of over $200 billion. It includes the National Farmers Federation, the Australian Meat Industry Council, Seafood Industry Australia, Independent Food Distributors Australia, AUSVEG, Master Grocers Australia, Restaurant and Catering Industry Association and the Australian Association of Convenience Stores and the Refrigerated Transport and Warehouse Association.

According to the peak bodies, the food supply chain urgently requires a suite of solutions,

including reducing barriers to work and providing suitable visa pathways to welcome overseas workers. This should include a greater focus on ASEAN countries for schemes which service the sector.

The Alliance believes that food price infation – which is as high as 15% in some categories in the most recent data – is one of the few ‘cost of living’ pressures the Government can infuence. This can be done by working constructively with industry to stabilise the myriad ever-increasing input costs. Labour shortages, energy prices, increasing wages,

SIGNIFICANT

LABOUR SHORTAGES

ACROSS FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN WEIGHING ON GROWTH, COST OF LIVING

Call for federal government to identify migration solutions

fuel and supply chain disruptions are all issues negatively impacting the supply chain. This impacts business and ultimately, the prices paid at the checkout.

The Alliance believes the Government must,

as a matter of urgency, develop a National Food Supply Chain Resilience Strategy to reduce the impact of the multiple long-term disruptors from natural disasters to future global challenges.

Winter crop production to fall from consecutive record highs

Australian Winter crop production is forecast to fall from record highs due to below average rainfall for winter and spring.

ABARES Executive Director Dr Jared Greenville said the Australian Crop Report forecasts total Australian winter crop production to fall by 34% to 44.9 million tonnes in 2023–24 following three consecutive record production years.

“The start of the winter cropping season in 2023–24 has been mixed,” Dr Greenville said.

“Early autumn rainfall in some major cropping regions in southern Victoria, southern New South Wales, southern Queensland, South Australia and central cropping regions in Western Australia replenished soil moisture levels and provided favourable planting

conditions.

“However, autumn rainfall in northern and southern cropping regions in Western Australia, northern New South Wales, northern Victoria and parts of southern and Central Queensland has been lower than average and soil moisture levels have remained low.

“Winter crop production is expected to decline to 3% below the 10-year average

to 2022–23 of 46.4 million tonnes and yield prospects are forecast to be below average due to the expectation of below average rainfall for winter and spring.

“Increased mouse activity in many cropping regions has resulted in growers undertaking more baiting this season. The delayed and diffcult harvest of the record 2022–23 winter crop led to greater grain loss than usual.

“On a more positive note, high crop prices, good seasons and record farm cash incomes over the last three years meaning many growers will stay in a strong fnancial position despite the fall in production.

“This will incentivise farmers to plant a crop this season while also allowing some growers to fallow a higher proportion of paddocks in dry areas.

“For the major winter

crops, area planted to wheat is forecast to fall by 2% to 12.8 million hectares and area planted to barley is forecast to increase by 4% to 4.3 million hectares, largely because of the crop’s ability to withstand drier conditions compared to wheat and canola. The longer planting window for cereals is also expected to result in some late plantings following rainfall events.

“Total summer crop production in 2022–23 is estimated to fall to 5.1 million tonnes, down 8% from the record production achieved in 2021–22, but remaining 43% above the 10-year average.

“Falling production largely refects lower forecast yields offsetting increases in planted area.

“Looking ahead, a signifcant downside risk to the 2023–24 winter cropping season is the potential for an El Niño

event and positive Indian Ocean Dipole to both eventuate this year.

“Looking ahead, the development of an El Niño event is likely to result in below average rainfall across eastern Australia during the Winter cropping season. We are also expected to see a positive Indian Ocean Dipole which may suppress winter and spring rainfall over much of Australia and potentially exacerbate the drying effect of an El Niño event.

“Despite the decline in production and weather events, national planting to winter crops in 2023–24 is set to remain historically high in 2023–24 at 23.3 million hectares, 6% above the 10-year average to 2022–23 and Summer crop production in 2022–23 remains above average but below last season’s record.”

CSIRO invests $25 million to drive biotech innovation

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has invested $25 million up to 2027 in a new program that will harness the building blocks of life to solve intractable problems.

Advanced Engineering Biology (AEB) is the latest of CSIRO’s Future Science Platforms (FSP) program, which are aimed at discovering future breakthroughs in new and emerging areas of science.

Dr Robert Speight, Director of CSIRO’s AEB FSP, said the program will integrate engineering and biology to develop solutions for broad-ranging issues from the environment and energy transition to food security and human health.

“We’re only just scratching the surface of engineering biology’s potential,” Dr Speight said.

“The feld is moving fast, and there’s still a

use them.

“The applications of engineering biology are varied and range from improving plants to sequester carbon more effectively,

harmful pesticides, and even engineering biosensors that can make on-the-spot medical diagnoses.”

The program will focus on new

underpin engineering biology, to make it faster, more predictable, and higher performing.

to help guide the responsible development of biotechnology.

The program builds

experts across Australia, through such projects as the production of animal-free dairy.

The market for biobased chemicals – such as biofuels, bioplastics, bio-based solvents, acids, lubricants, and alcohols – is expected to be worth roughly $240 billion by 2030.

CSIRO Deputy Chief Scientist, Dr Jill Freyne said Australia has an opportunity to position itself as a world leader in the rapidly expanding biotechnology sector.

“The Advanced Engineering Biology FSP is about unlocking the transformative potential of engineering biology to underpin transitions to new industries, enable circular economies, and realise vast benefts for society and the environment,” Dr Freyne said.

The research carried out by the AEB FSP over the next four years will also interface with other fast-advancing felds, such as machine learning and artifcial intelligence (AI).

“AI is transforming what we do, making the design of new biotechnologies faster and more predictable than ever before,” Dr Speight said.

lot left to discover about the biological building blocks of life – how they work, and how we could

to manufacturing sustainable alternatives to animal proteins, petroleum fuels, and

biomanufacturing capabilities, as well as developing the very technologies that

It will also conduct detailed research on the public’s expectations, attitudes, and perceptions

on CSIRO’s research which helped to grow a community of engineering biology

“For example, it promises new ways of developing biosensors that mean we can now do in weeks what used to take years. The technology is rapidly progressing, and we need to stay at the leading edge of it.

Scientists at work in CSIRO’s state-of-the-art BioFoundry.

New technologies are making engineering biology faster and more predictable than ever before.

Dr Robert Speight, Director of CSIRO’s AEB FSP.

BEST ON THE BOX

SUNDAY GRAND DESIGNS REVISITED

ABC, 7.30pm

TUESDAY THE ROOKIE

SUNDAY

DANCING WITH THE STARS

SEVEN, 7pm

Dance like no one is watching, they say. But in this star-studded competition – returning for a fresh season of everything from a possible rumba to perhaps even a spot of breakdancing – everyone’s eyes will be peeled. From the sparkling costumes and enthusiastic moves to every awkward step, the stars’ performances will be analysed. A able hosts Sonia Kruger and Daryl Somers are back, along with new judges Craig Revel Horwood and Sharna Burgess to encourage the competitors’ inner dancer. The celebs burning up the dance oor this time include Matt Preston, Olympian Sally Pearson, Pia Miranda (above) and landscaper Charlie Albone.

FRIDAY, June 16

6.00 The Drum. Analysis of the day’s news.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Costa gives a lesson on landscaping.

8.30 Utopia. (PG, R) A completed bypass is held up from opening due to signage for a problematic monument.

9.00 Smother. (Mal) Val and Paul tell the family about their plans to turn the house into a therapy centre.

9.50 Mayfair Witches. (Malv) Rowan makes a shocking discovery.

10.30 Interview With The Vampire. (Final, MA15+hv)

11.20 ABC Late News.

11.35 The Split. (Mls, R)

12.35 Harrow. (Mav, R)

1.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

ABC TV PLUS (22)

Documentary Now! 10.25

Portlandia. 11.05 Doctor Who. Midnight To Be

Advised. 12.30 We Hunt Together. 1.15 Killing

Eve. 2.00 Brassic. 2.45 Friday Night Dinner. 3.05

Miniseries: Tipping The Velvet. 4.05 ABC News

Update. 4.10 Close. 5.00 Late Programs.

Kevin McCloud has seen a lot of houses in his more than 20 years as presenter of this aspirational architecture series, but none are more memorable than tonight’s spectacular failure. The bemused and sympathetic host obviously couldn’t resist the invitation to see what has transpired at North Devon’s enormous seafront spectacle, which saw Edward Short say goodbye to millions of pounds, as well as his marriage. More than 10 years after visiting the un nished “dream” aproject, he returns to fate. It’s a remarkable story of excess, but also one of optimism and hope in the face of astonishing nancial disaster.

SEVEN, 9pm

He’s the middle-

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 New Zealand From A Train.

8.30 Greenland: Survival At The Edge. Part 1 of 2.

9.25 Legends Of The Pharaohs: Mystery Of The Great Pyramid. (Masv, R) A look at the Great Pyramid of Giza.

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Vienna Blood. (MA15+a)

12.45 The Investigation. (Ma, R)

2.25 The Hunt For A Killer. (MA15+as, R)

4.10 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens.

Johanna Griggs chats to Charlie Albone about signing up to DancingwiththeStars

8.30 MOVIE: The Help. (2011, Ma, R) During the civil rights movement of the ’60s, an aspiring author decides to write a book detailing the African-American maids’ point of view on the white families they work for and the hardships they experience. Emma Stone, Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer.

11.30 To Be Advised.

1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R) Dr Harry Cooper and Dr Katrina Warren present information about animals and pet care.

1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Explores goldrush towns in New South Wales.

2.00 Home Shopping.

John (Nathan Fillion) old and grey before he leaves his training wheels behind? With season six of this light-hearted crime drama recently green-lighted, there’s a lot more development and story yet to come. Tonight, John and Celina (Lisseth Chavez) investigate a cash deposit linked to an old DEA case. The spectacle of Halloween adds some extra fun and shenanigans, while John and Bailey (Jenna Dewan) fan their competitiveness by having a pancake contest to pick their wedding’s location.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 16. North Queensland Cowboys v Penrith Panthers. From Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the North Queensland Cowboys versus Penrith Panthers match, with news and analysis.

10.40 MOVIE: Lethal Weapon. (1987, Mdlv, R) Two detectives pursue drug tra ckers. Mel Gibson, Danny Glover.

12.50 Hello SA. (PG, R) The team takes a tour o Whyalla.

1.20 He Said/She Said. (PG)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Postcards. (PG, R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGa) Harries confronts a body surfer.

8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Sam Pang and Ed Kavalee are joined by celebrity guests Emma Holland, Tony Martin and Alex Ward to compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. Hosted by Tom Gleisner.

9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mls, R) Guests include Salma Hayek, Julianne Moore, Johannes Radebe, Shania Twain, Lizzo and Tom Grennan.

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. Noon

Motor Racing. SpeedSeries. 2.00 Full House. 2.30

MacGyver. 3.30 Raymond. 4.00 The Nanny. 5.00

SOFT AGRICULTURE

SUSTAINABLE ORGANIC FARMING TECHNIQUES

SOFT Agriculture offers an extensive range of products to suit Classic Conventional and Organic Farming methods.

OUR RANGE:

Gina Rinehart announced as Rural Aid Patron

Australian mining and agriculture icon Gina Rinehart has continued to throw her support behind Rural Aid, Australia’s most trusted rural charity, accepting an invitation to become Rural Aid’s patron.

Rural Aid was founded in the 2015 drought and has forged a reputation for its important work in supporting farming families before, during and after disasters and is well-known nationally for its Buy A Bale campaign.

Chief Executive Offcer

John Warlters said Rural Aid has given a hand-up to thousands of farming families impacted by drought, bushfres and foods.

Such has been the enormous scale and impact of disaster events since its inception, Rural Aid has raised and distributed more than $100 million of assistance to families across the country.

“We are honoured to have Mrs Rinehart as Rural Aid’s patron and to have her advocating in support of and championing the untiring work that Rural Aid does to enable farming families impacted by disasters receive assistance rapidly wherever they are – be it fnancial, fodder for livestock, drinking water or a

chat with one of Rural Aid’s professionally accredited counsellors,” Mr Warlters said.

Mrs Rinehart has deep ties to agriculture that go back generations. Her family is one of the longest continuing pastoral families in Australia – starting in the Pilbara region of West Australia in the 1860s, and before that on farms closer to Perth. Today that pastoral connection continues with S Kidman and Co, founded in 1899 and Hancock Agriculture with the famous 2GR brand founded in 2017 which breeds the world’s best Full Blood Wagyu.

“We are appreciative of Mrs Rinehart’s ongoing support and very much look forward to our valued friendship continuing into the future,” Mr Warlters

said.

Beyond her agricultural interests, Mrs Rinehart is a leading fgure in Australia’s Olympic efforts. She is patron of four of the nation’s Olympic teams and was recently made an Offcer of the Order of Australia for her distinguished service to the mining sector, to the community through philanthropic initiatives, and to sport as a patron. She is known to many as Australia’s most successful business person, investing in Australia and employing thousands of people across the country.

“Having grown up on stations which I loved very much, stations and farms have and always will be close to my heart. Rural Aid as an organisation that ‘stands

with our mates in the bush’ during their hard times, and it does get tough in the bush, with foods, fres and severe drought, in addition to the usual dangers of snakes, spiders and in some northern areas, crocodiles too,” Mrs Rinehart said.

“As patron of Rural Aid, I encourage all Australians to throw their support behind its ongoing efforts in ensuring that our food producers – our farmersare able to get back on their feet quickly when drought, food or bushfre hits them.”

Mrs Rinehart said the mining and agricultural industries were the backbone of our country. They not only provide thousands and thousands of jobs, but they present billions of dollars of

taxes for governments to build such things as hospitals, schools and roads and pay for our much needed police, security and defence forces.

“Preserving the agricultural and mining industry’s future is in the interests of not only all the businesses that the primary industries support, but every Australian. It is critical that our governments realise these essential industries must keep cost competitive internationally, to be able to continue to earn export income, and thrive, and not burden them with regulations and other onerous government burdens” Mrs Rinehart said.

State’s dairy industry getting squeezed

Most dairy farmers in NSW will fare better than their interstate competitors with opening milk prices posted on Thursday to meet a mandatory ACCC deadline.

Processors Norco and Saputo set slightly higher prices for the most part in NSW, according to NSW Farmers, but the disappointing prices interstate would be unlikely to stem the continued loss of farmers from the industry.

It comes on the back of a report from Dairy Australia that found more than 80 per cent of dairy farmers in NSW were impacted by foods last year – more than half of which were severely impacted – and that climate and labour were the biggest concerns going forward.

NSW Farmers Dairy Committee Vice Chair Malcolm Holm said the it had been a tough year for the state and the increases were a good start, but he warned broader drop in prices from processors coinciding with high input costs and competition for land were making it harder for farmers to stay in the industry, ultimately impacting on future milk production.

“We’ve seen the milk pool shrink and prices drop, and there’s a real concern that we could see a future with much less locally-produced dairy products,” Mr Holm said.

Fighting the exotic mosquito menace

“The weather and access to workers is part of this, but there needs to be a concerted effort from everyone in the supply chain to ensure dairying can be a proftable business into the future.

“We’re seeing increased imported dairy products such as butter and cheese on the supermarket shelves, meaning Aussie families are missing out on great local products.”

For NSW producers, dairy giant Saputo opened with slightly higher prices than last season at $11.35/kgMS, while Norco was up to about $12.22/kgMS in the north. Lactalis was down to $10.70/kgMS in the south of the state, and $11.26 in the north – something Mr Holm said would need to rise in coming weeks.

“We’re really thankful for the support shown by Aussie families over the past few years after the destructive dollar-alitre milk debacle,” Mr Holm said.

“What we need now are government policies and decisions that support – not hurt – dairy farmers, such as reversing the recent federal budget announcements of rises in heavy vehicle road charges and increased levies.

“Ultimately it’s Australian families who will pay the price of these decisions –either at the checkout or through a lack of choice in the future.”

Sydney’s warm and wet weather over the past year has kept Australia’s frontline biosecurity offcers busy in the fght against mosquito-borne diseases.

More than half of all exotic mosquitoes detected through the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s national vector monitoring program in 2022 were associated with aircraft and cargo arrivals through Sydney’s Kingsford Smith Airport.

From January 2022 to January 2023, the department’s vector monitoring offcers and biosecurity offcers detected 24 exotic mosquitoes across the country and 14 of those

were found in Sydney. In the same period the previous year there were just three detections in Sydney and a national total of 18 detections.

Deputy Secretary, Biosecurity and Compliance Group, Dr Chris Locke said the vector monitoring program plays a major role in intercepting mosquitoes, many of which can transmit serious diseases.

“The Aedes aegypti mosquito, which can transmit yellow fever and dengue fever, was detected in a sentinel trap by a Vector Surveillance Offcer on 27 March 2023 during routine monitoring activities at Sydney’s international airport,”

said Dr Locke. “While Australia is free of yellow fever and many other serious mosquito-borne diseases, monitoring and interception programs at entry points remains a critical line of defence.

“Surveillance is carried out at First Point of Entry airports, seaports and nominated Approved Arrangements around Australia and includes the regular monitoring of mosquito traps as well as dipping larvae habitats to capture immature mosquitoes.

“Exotic mosquitoes tend to arrive in Australia via baggage and cargo containers carried in the holds of aircraft travelling primarily from Southeast

Asian airports. They are also found as larvae in pooling water within imported goods, especially imported tyres and break-bulk equipment.” Fogging, which involves using a fne insecticide spray directed by a blower, in conjunction with residual surface insecticide treatments was carried out after every detection and was followed by extensive surveillance through trapping.

No further exotic mosquitoes were detected at Sydney Airport following the insecticide response treatments.

Correction on the cards as La Nina retreats

The overall value of the agriculture sector is set to contract by 14% in 2023-24 due to drier than normal conditions after three La Nina years.

Executive Director of ABARES Dr Jared Greenville said the reduction was to be expected after the records broken in the past three years.

“The value of agricultural production will still reach $79 billion in 2023-24, which is an expected fall given the circumstances,” Dr Greenville said.

“We are expecting exports to follow suit, falling by 17% to $65 billion in 2023-24, which would be the third highest result on record.

“The latest seasonal outlooks see an expectation of drier conditions as we move

away from three years of exceptional La Nina weather patterns.

“Looking further ahead, it’s likely we will see either El Nino or a positive Indian Ocean Dipole in the coming months, which will reduce crop yields.

“Crop production in 2023-24 is forecast to fall by 34 per cent from record production volume in 2022-23. At the same time, domestic prices for most crops are expected to fall in 2023-24.

“Prices both in Australia and overseas will also ease, as global production increases world supply.

“However, it’s not the same story across all industries. Horticulture production is expected to increase by $1.5 billion to reach a record $18

billion, refecting strong growth in nut production and increasing domestic fruit and vegetable consumption.

“The wine industry will also rebound from a challenging 2022-23, as the expected drier conditions in 2023-24 should reduce the occurrence of disease

which reduced the 2022-23 crop.

“The results are more mixed for the livestock sector. There will be slight increases in production across beef, sheep and milk, but a drop in the value of livestock production to $35 billion in 2023-24 because of lower prices.

“This is down to a number of factors, such as less demand for restocking, and like crops, we expect global production to pick up.

“We are also expecting a strong 2023-24 for the wool market. Strong demand for Australian from China is forecast to increase wool prices,

with production values expected to rise by $175 million in 2023-24.”

You can read the June quarter Agricultural Commodities Report here: ABARES website https://www.agriculture. gov.au/abares/researchtopics/agriculturaloutlook

BRIDGING THE HOUSING GAP: EXCLUSIVE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY IN BILAMBIL HEIGHTS ADDRESSES LAND SHORTAGE

IN NORTHERN RIVERS

In a region overwhelmed by a scarcity of available land for development, an exclusive residential opportunity has emerged in Bilambil Heights, Northern New South Wales.

Colliers has announced the listing of 300 McAllisters Road, a 50.18-hectare site that holds the key to addressing the pressing issue of land supply and housing opportunities in the Northern Rivers.

With limited greenfeld stock on the market, this development opportunity comes as a timely solution to the region’s housing shortage.

The property’s substantial size and close proximity to world-famous Kirra and Coolangatta beaches and the Gold Coast airport make it an ideal location for a much-needed

211 lot residential subdivision (STCA). Director in Charge of Colliers Gold Coast, Steven King, says the property predominantly falls under the G1 “General Residential” and R5 “Large lot Residential” zoning, as per the Tweed Local Environmental Plan.

“This zoning allows for various residential possibilities, catering to a diverse range of housing needs,” said Mr King.

“The scarcity of available land for residential development has reached critical levels in the Northern Rivers region.

“As urban areas expand and demand for housing surges, the need for suitable land becomes increasingly vital,” he says.

With an average lot size of 1,572 square

meters and a range of lot sizes from 450 square meters to 33,240 square meters, this proposed subdivision (STCA) provides a diverse range of housing options to cater to different needs and preferences.

300 McAllisters Road is also situated within 600 meters of Cobaki Lakes, a proposed $1.25 billion master-planned

community comprising 5,500 lots.

“This listing is the closest development opportunity to the proposed masterplanned community at Cobaki Lakes which is the largest available land holding closest to the New South Wales, Queensland border,” said Mr King.

Fast facts:

• Land area:

50.18Ha*

• Prime elevated residential land, with undulating slopes, and views over Cobaki Valley through to the Southern Gold Coast / Pacifc Ocean

• 9km* from

Tweed Heads & Coolangatta, 15 min from Gold Coast Airport

and 35 min south of Surfers Paradise*

• Predominately zoned G1 “General Residential” & R5

“Large lot Residential” in accordance with the Tweed Local Environmental Plan

• Proposed plan of subdivision outlining 211 lots (STCA)^

• Average lot size 1,572m²* - ranging from 450m²* to 33,240m²* (STCA)

• Within 600 metres* of Cobaki Lakes, the proposed $1.25 billion 5,500* lot master planned • * Approx, ^ Subject to Council Approval, ~ Outlines indicative only.

For more information, please contact Steven King, Troy Linnane and Brendan Hogan at Colliers.

NSW rental laws will spark bidding wars and push up prices, community sector warns

Nineteen community organisations have come together to warn the NSW Government’s proposed rent bidding legislation will spark legal rental auctions and further push up prices.

In a letter to the Legislative Assembly Select Committee on the Residential Tenancies Amendment (Rental Fairness) Bill 2023 coordinated by Homelessness

NSW and the NSW Tenants’ Union, the organisations including NCOSS, Shelter NSW and Redfern Legal Centre warn the current proposal to ban secret rent bidding will actually make the situation worse by encouraging a transparent, regulated rental auction process.

Across NSW, vacancy rates are at an all-time low, 36 per cent of tenants are in rental stress and renters are continuing to face rising weekly rents – with the latest data showing a 25 per cent increase in median weekly

rentals since late 2020.

The situation is particularly acute in Sydney where rents have soared 24.3 per cent in the past 12 months, a higher fgure than the Australian capital city average of 20.6 per cent, according to SQM.

In their letter to committee members scrutinising the bill, the organsiations warn of possible unintended consequences.

“The current draft legislation requires owners and agents to notify applicants of other offers that are higher than the advertised price but does not prevent them from accepting such offers,” the letter reads.

“This means that rent bidding can still occur, and that tenants can still be pressured to pay more than they can afford. We have become aware that the recent media on the practice has also led to increased bids from prospective tenants.”

The organisations are calling for changes to ban rent bidding by preventing

agents from accepting a price above the listing price.

Homelessness NSW

CEO Trina Jones - who will give evidence at the NSW Legislative Assembly Committee on

the legislation on Fridaysaid rent bidding must be banned.

“Right now people in our state are being forced to live in tents or cars because they cannot afford rising rents.

“While designed to strengthen tenants’ rights, the current draft of the legislation will have unintended consequences of actually normalising rent bidding, increasing stress for renters at a time

of crisis across the state.

“Preventing rent bidding altogether is a simpler and more effective solution that would beneft both tenants and landlords by reducing stress and administration.”

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Danish writer, Hans – Andersen (9)

6 Portable music player (4)

10 Yank (3)

11 Right away (11)

12 Graveyard (8)

13 French (6)

14 Umpteen (4)

15 Italian composer (7)

20 Enlarge (7)

21 Church recess (4)

25 Sopori c drug (6)

26 Dictator (8)

28 New birth (11)

29 Speck (3)

30 Bring up (4)

31 Unconvinced (9)

DOWN

1 Subterranean burial chamber (8)

2 Army unit (8)

3 A Japanese religion (6)

4 Be involved (9)

5 Uncovered (4)

7 Spanish rice dish (6)

SUDOKU

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included, and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

1 In which US city was Motown Records founded in 1960?

2 Director Duncan Jones is the son of which musician?

3 What sport would you be playing if you used the Duckworth-LewisStern method?

4 On which bay is Cape Town situated?

5 What element has the symbol Au and the atomic number 79?

6 In which lm did George Clooney (pictured) play the character Ulysses Everett McGill?

7 What song contains the line ‘how can you have any pudding if you don’t eat your meat?’?

8 Who wrote the poem Do not go gentle into that good night?

9 Iona is a small island o the western coast of which country?

10 Who played the lead female role opposite Cary Grant in the 1963 lm Charade?

WORD

1 Become wide open (4)

5 Desiccated (4)

6 Warble (4)

1 Deep cut (4)

2 Opera song (4)

3 Liquid measure (4)

4 Brink (4)

Secret message:

50 Years On!

Following the hugely successful 2021/2022 sell-out tours, QUEEN: Bohemian Rhapsody

‘Freedom is Beautiful’ flm screening at Lennox

Local artist and flmmaker

Angus McDonald is bringing his frst feature flm, Freedom is Beautiful, to Lennox Head Cultural Centre, fresh from its Sydney Film Festival premiere.

The powerful feature follows the journey of two extraordinary Kurdish refugees, Farhad Bandesh and Mostafa (Moz) Azimitabar, who fed persecution in Iran and arrived separately by boat into Australia seeking asylum in 2013.

They were freed from detention after being imprisoned for almost eight years under Australia’s

offshore processing regime.

Two years in the making, much of the 70-minute documentary was shot in this region around Lennox Head.

“Moz and Farhad spent lots of time up here shooting Freedom Is Beautiful and fell in love with Lennox,” said Mr McDonald.

“Many people working on the project were from here as well, so I’m really excited we can share the flm with my community straight after it premieres in Sydney, before it moves on to international festivals.”

Moz and Farhad formed a close friendship while detained, they used music and art as a form of peaceful resistance to promote humanity and tirelessly advocate on behalf of all those who remained held.

Beautifully told in their own words, Freedom is Beautiful is an uplifting story of the power of love and our shared humanity.

Freedom is Beautiful screens on Saturday 24 June at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre, followed by a Q&A.

Doors open at 6pm. Tickets are $25. To book visit communityspaces.com.au/tickets

are returning with a Brand-New show in 2023, combining Queen’s “Greatest Hits” and a few of the most popular songs on their albums.

The hit movie - Bohemian Rhapsody - exposed this fantastic band to a much wider audience making QUEEN more popular than ever!

Now, fresh off the heels of the movie’s success, comes a tribute show from well-known Australian, Freddie Mercury Impersonator - Thomas Crane. Thomas with his hot band “Bohemian Rhapsody” bring back to life the visual excitement, sound and stage energy as witnessed at a QUEEN concert.

QUEEN: BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY will perform all the hits, including - We Will Rock You, We Are The Champions, I Want to Break Free, Another One Bites the Dust, and of course, Bohemian Rhapsody!

“My God Freddie Mercury is alive and well he would have been very proud of that vocal performance” - Molly Meldrum

“That’s the best Freddie Mercury impersonation I have seen, YOU ROCK” - Danni Minogue

“Thomas Crane is a great singer and an amazing showman” - Brian McFadden, Westlife

SARATON THEATRE

GRAFTON TICKET PRICES

Adults: $79.90

Seniors/Students/Concessions: $74.90

Children (under 12yrs): $49.90 Groups of 10+/Saraton Members: $69.90/ticket

(Member card must be presented to get the discount price)

PH: 6686 9600

ELEMENTAL M 109 Min

FAST X M 141 Min

JOHN FARNHAM: FINDING THE VOICE M 95 Min

SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE PG 140 Min

THE FLASH PG 144 Min

THE LITTLE MERMAID PG 135 Min

ENTERTAINMENT

Maybe I do

We open to Sam and Grace meeting, as they are both watching a Swedish flm alone. Afterwards, they vacilate about staying together in a cheap motel. Eventually they get a bucket of food and a sixpack, take it to the room, but spend the evening walking and talking.

Howard and Monica are staying in a hotel, and he alludes to the facts that they’ve been seeing each other for four months and he’s married to someone else. He is no longer interested in continuing the affair, and she gives him thinly veiled threats. But Howard leaves nonetheless. He and a waitress observe a young couple, missing their youth, Monica confronts a young female hotel clerk, pointing out how quickly time fies.

Finally, we see Michelle and Allen attending

a wedding, where he intercepts the bouquet so Michelle can’t catch it. She of course had fantasized it’s being the idyllic start to their perfect future together. Back at his apartment Michelle changes clothes, gives Allen a 24h ultimatum, and walks out.

Howard goes home, fnding his wife Grace in the living room. After

an awkward attempt at conversation, their daughter Michelle comes in. She brings up the ultimatum she dropped on Allen, which her mother fully supports. Allen similarly tells his parents Sam and Monica, and in this case his dad is pro wedding and she isn’t. The next morning the two families continue talking. Both of Michelle’s go on about the importance of the rings, but neither happens to be wearing theirs. Howard and Grace get Michelle to invite Allen and

his parents to dinner. Sam accepts although neither Allen nor Monica agree. When Allen and his parents arrive there is extreme awkwardness, as the double affairs hadn’t yet come to light. Monica goes with Howard to get the drinks, and she is determined they should continue seeing each other or she’ll kill him. Grace walks outside under the guise of showing Sam the grounds and he tries to convince her that they had a strong connection, that it was fate and that they need

Holding Achilles - A world premiere production as part of Brisbane Festival

Set against the epic violence of the Trojan War, Holding Achilles by David Morton is a refreshing take on one of the ancient world’s best-known heroes, and his relationship with

Patroclus, his not so wellknown lover.

This breathtaking new production from visual theatre masterminds Dead Puppet Society and physical theatre virtuosos

Legs On The Wall reclaims the queer aspects of The Iliad. Set to a haunting new score performed live by Montaigne, composed with Tony Buchen and Chris Bear, this innovative

new work blends heightened physicality and visual storytelling with an ensemble cast to weave a legend of mythic proportions. A tale of trials, grief and love – Holding Achilles is an epic tale about a fearless bond forged in the toughest of times. As a young exile taken in by Achilles’ father, Patroclus faces hostility from the young hero until they are thrust together to train under the centaur Chiron, and the two form an unlikely friendship. As Achilles doggedly seeks to

to pursue a relationship while she insists it was a mistake. Michelle and Allen firt in her room.

In front of all four parents, Michelle asks Allen to trust in the now and to not fear that things could end badly, to take a leap of faith with her. She leaves the room, and he soon follows. Left alone, Monica spills the beans about her affair with Howard, or tries to. Both Grace and Sam guiltily confess about meeting the previous night and Monica smugly talks about her and Howard begs Grace for her forgiveness.

An upset Grace goes outside, while Sam amd Howard compare info about their infdelities, Howard explaining that it was purely physical whereas Sam explains theirs was purely cerebral. They start to fght with their fsts, but it soon turns into a hug. Howard considers both his wife and Sam are better people than him.

fulfl his mother’s prophecy to become a legend, their relationship becomes something more. But war with Troy is brewing, and the two young men fnd

Monica follows Grace, and she lets her know she thinks Howard hasn’t gotten too lost and they could still be saved.

The men join them outside. Howard it was the last and only time he cheated on her, which Monica corraborates. Grace is hurt that, instead of talking things through with her he’d sought solace in another’s arms. When she leaves in tears, Sam encourages Howard to go after her as she believes her best possible happy ending is with him.

Sam and Monica stay taking once they are alone. He says he’d always felt she’s more interesting than him, that she’s an unstoppable force and he’s stayed because of their son. Meeting Grace, he now sees he could love again. Michelle and Allen write their own vows. Afterwards we see Sam and Monica saying their goodbyes, and Howard and Grace have refound each other.

themselves caught between their hopes for a future together and the brutal realities of the world that faces them.

Marigolds Bistro

Buffet Fridays

Lunch and Dinner

11.30am-2.30pm / From 5.30pm

Starts 2nd June

Amazing Indulgence

Booking Preferred 0432291824

210 Molesworth St Lismore

MUSICAL BINGO

Max Crus is a Clarence Valley-based wine writer and Grape Expectations is now in its 26th year of publication. Find out more about Max or sign up for his weekly reviews and musings by visiting maxcrus.com.au

Australians all let us rejoice Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Sosays the national anthem, for we are one and free, and Aussies love nothing more than rejoicing at being number one.

Okay, it took until 2021, 250 years, for us white fellas to wake up and realise we were one rather than young but that in itself, being a wee bit racist, and late, is something we excel at too, while at the same coming frst in denying it another win.

There are a couple of

Chateau Tanunda

Barossa Valley The Chateau Single Vineyard Bethanian Shiraz 2021, $40. Bethanian sounds positively biblical and wouldnt the world has been a different place if the three men had been wise enough to bring shiraz. Heavenly stuff for less than 500 grams of myrrh. 9.6/10.

other frsts Australia could boast, but being modest types, we try not to, like mammalian extinctions, even putting our national emblem, the koala, on alert to be next, and, being so good at it, we havent tried to slow things down. Another frst, inaction!

Yoohoo.

True, Australia leads the world in other areas than wildlife and habitat destruction, such as being frst in the world for per

Chateau Tanunda Barossa Valley The Chateau Single Vineyard Shiraz 2021, $35. A big bomb of a Barossan thing, not uncommon from that part of the world, it’s a wonder the French haven’t objected to the use of the word Chateau. Get away with it while you can. 9.4/10.

capita use of plastic bags, so let’s not get bogged down in our own soil runoff.

We are so good at wrapping everything in plastic, with Coles and Woolies leading the charge saying ìour customers demand it, so who are we to deny them, that we are only 20 years behind other countries. Thats the spiritof Australia. Sorry, Qantas.

Speaking of which, Qantas is possibly frst

Cuvee Sparkling Shiraz SB20, $24. A staple of the sparkling shiraz stable for as long as most people can remember, and in the absence of the old Seppelts versions probably the go to of a depressingly diminishing selection in the price range. 9.4/10. de Bortoli Heathcote

‘Woodfred’ Grenache, 2021, $22. Not sure if

in the world for airline profts, and co-incidentally and surely unrelated, for outsourcing its workforce. Wrap that Flying Kangaroo in social glory. Might even be frst for airline CEO remuneration too. Have to check that.

One of our proudest achievements however is being frst in the world at poker machines, their use and abuse! Two frsts in one. Howz that for a Crowning glory? Ooh,

I’d like my grenache woodfred, I’m not even that fussed with woodfred pizza - what’s wrong with just well oven-cooked pizza? But fads are fun so get on board and at least here you get a pretty cool grenache despite the woodfring. 9.2/10.

Tahbilk Ngambie Lakes Marsanne 2022, $20.30. There is something

sorry about that $500 million AUD fne, Guys, but no matter, you’ve been benefting from problem gamblers and money launderers for so long thats likely a drop in the bucket, which is about all those poor buggers have left because Australia is also frst in the world at losing money to gambling.

To top it all off, Australia just achieved yet another frst - per capita use of cocaine, thanks largely to

distinctly pinot gris about this latest incarnation of the famous Tahbilk marsanne, but we know from experience this will be superior to probably any gris in the country in 2043. Meanwhile... 9.2/10.

Tahbilk Ngambie Lakes Viognier 2022, $20.60. Unbelievable that a year has passed since we tried the previous

Max Crus

NSW, who cant win State of Origin footy, but they’ve got it sorted when it comes to being snorted and that’s nothing to be sniffed at.

Surely Australia is frst in the world at something good, but nothing springs to mindbut wait, yes, we’re frst in the world for plantings of shiraz and marsanne. Phew, let’s drink to that.

vintage of this, it’s fruit character lingering like it was yesterday. Or last month at least. Not so much peach and passionfruit this year as lychee and lime and you could probably fnd more if you sniffed hard enough which you will. Excellent value. 9.4/10.

Rumball Coonawarra

Introducing The Xtremely Pretty Genesis X Concept

BY JEFFREY GIBBS

Few automakers build a prettier concept car than Genesis. The Korean automaker stunned the New York Auto Show in 2018 with the Essentia Concept then came back the following year with the adorable Mint Concept. Though the auto show season is very much in flux right now, Genesis is sticking to what it does best by revealing yet another gorgeous concept vehicle. Feast your eyes on the Genesis X Concept, which just made its global debut in Los Angeles, California.

Like the Essentia, the Genesis X is a high-performance, fully electric GT (Grand Touring) coupe concept car. It’s not a production model yet, but Genesis says its design will inspire future models.

“The car that’s been unveilled is a concept car that embodies the essential elements that Genesis pursues in its designs. Please take a moment to meet the future of Genesis design through this concept car, which embodies our brand’s progressive and audacious spirit,” said Jay Chang, Global Head of the Genesis Brand.

The stunning design uses the signature Genesis “Two Lines” element that graces existing models like the G80 and GV80. We are particularly mesmerized by the low silhouette and prominent crest grille upfront. Genesis designed the grille with a G-matrix pattern to emphasize its electric underpinnings. The bonnet and guard are

integrated into one single panel-based clamshell bonnet creating a cleaner surface.

Looking down the side, the arching Parabolic Line continues down the vehicle’s length, giving it a curvaceous profile. There are plenty of concept-only design elements here, such as the digital side mirrors, slide-to-open charging door, and massive two-layered, turbine-type five-spoke wheels.

The lime green brake callipers could make it to production, though.

At the back, the Genesis X features a short decklid with a unique body shape.

It’s meant to evoke the shape of a horseshoe, according to Genesis, giving a strong but sophisticated impression.

The whole car is finished in a new colour called Lencois Blue, inspired by the lagoons at the Maranhenses National Park in Brazil. These lagoons only form during the rainy season and represent the sustainable

luxury Genesis wants to pursue with this car.

The vehicle’s low silhouette, combined with the prominent crest grille in front, gives it a luxurious and sleek look. Additionally, the side panels consist of an arching Parabolic Line that gives the Genesis X an athletic yet sophisticated profile. Rounding out the concept’s appearance are the five-spoke turbinetype wheels and the new Lencois Blue paint colour inspired by the lagoons at Maranhenses National Park in Brazil.

The interior was designed to feel luxurious and comfortable, with a “white space” concept

that utilizes upcycled materials. The four-seat bucket seats have metal frames exposed to give it an energetic look and are complemented with four-point seatbelts. Sitting prominently in the centre of the cabin is the Crystal Sphere Electronic Shift Lever, which incorporates the driving mode settings and has a sleek design.

The Genesis X Concept is yet another show of the impressive design capabilities of

the automaker. With its sleek, athletic body, luxurious interior, and assumed highperformance powertrain, the Genesis X speaks to the brand’s commitment to progressiveness and an audacious spirit. Thanks to its distinctively designed crest grille in front and low profile, the vehicle has a sophisticated appearance. Additionally, the side panels of the Genesis X have an arched Parabolic Line which contributes to its sleek yet powerful profile. The idea’s aesthetics are complemented by 5-spoke turbine-style wheels and a modern Lencois Blue tint that is influenced by Maranhenses national park’s lagoons located in

Brazil

In order to achieve luxury and comfort in the ambiance we designed for this interior project, we employed a unique “white space” approach powered by reusable elements. Exposed metal frames on the four-seat bucket seats create an energetic aesthetic highlighted with additional safety provided by four-point seatbelts. Conveniently located in the heart of the cabin is The Crystal Sphere Electronic Shift Lever which presents an elegant appearance whilst managing numerous driving modes. The actual specifications of its powertrain are not available at present but it is expected for the Genesis X to deliver significant strength and speed. Given that the brand-new Kia EV6 GT features two electric motors capable of generating as much as 576 horsepower and up to 538 pound-feet torque with an acceleration time from 0 to 100 in merely 3.5 seconds, we expect the upcoming mass-produced version will boast equivalent specifications

With its incredible style and innovation, the new concept car from Genesis called the Genesis X is another demonstration of this auto manufacturer’s technical proficiency. With both an extravagant interior and a streamlined outer appearance complemented by what is assumed to be a topof-the-line powertrain system, the Genesis X speaks volumes about innovation from the luxury automaker.

Chevrolet Camaro ‘Panther’ edition will be the last Camaro

The special Collector’s Edition commemorates the send off of the sixth-generation Camaro, which will end production next year

BY JEFFREY GIBBS

Chevrolet recently made an announcement that they will be discontinuing production of the sixth-gen Camaro in 2024 following the release of special Collector’s Edition models.

US customers who purchase any of these trims: 2024 LT/RS LT1 SS or ZL3 will be able to add on a Collector’s Edition Package starting June 15.

With exception of the ZL1 version sporting Chevrolet’s debutant matt-finish coating in Panther black shade; every remaining model receives black metallic paint job. Originally known as Panther during its early stages of development in the 60s made it fitting for them to pay tribute by naming it so.

The package comprises

unique features such as exclusive satin black striping along with stylish 20-inch wheels in matte finish as well as a front spoiler for the 1LE derivative and rear wing for ZL1.

Both the Camaro’s side badges and its steering

wheel badge in the R model incorporate an elegant panther. The interior includes a number of black accents in addition to floormats that feature the Collector’s Edition badge.

When purchasing

2023 Ram Rampage unveiled

may face competition from the new Ram Dakota mid-sized pick-up. There is currently no announcement regarding its anticipated arrival time.

the Chevy Camaro customers will also receive a welcome kit that contains two commemorative posters about its history.

The production of the ZL1 model is limited to a maximum of 350 units. However, one could

spend between US$4995 (AU7498) and as much as $US14995(AU22511) depending on which version of this car they select when getting The Collector’s Edition.

Since GMSV stopped importing and converting their cars into RHD

models for Australia last April 2020; exclusive availability of sixth-gen Camaros became limited to the US market.

With reports dating back to July 2021 indicating its eventual demise and replacement with an EV model still sporting its namesake - it is not unexpected news that we are hearing about phasing out of sixthgeneration now.

Though an official announcement by Chevy regarding a new model replacing sixth-gen Camaro is pending but what we do know is production of current version will come to a close in January 2024. The finalized 2024 Camaro lineup from Chevy doesn’t include a turbo four-cylinder variant any-more, buyers will have to choose between either a V6 or V8 model.

BY JEFFREY GIBBS

While RAM was never intended as a competitor for the Toyota HiLux or Ford Ranger, this South American model serves as a clear preview of things to come.

Ram Rampage’s design language pays homage to its elder sibling -the mighty Ram 1500. The incorporation of design elements including C-shaped LED daytime running lights and a wide TRX-style grille paired with black plastic bumpers can be observed.

A unique tail-light signature is achieved by arranging five LED lights in a D-shaped pattern for this car. The US flag serves as an inspiration for the reverse light design, which celebrates this vehicle’s origins in Michigan.

The majority of full-sized pickups and utilities are constructed with traditional frame-based methods,

unlike The Ram rampage which utilizes a distinct unibody design. The design was modeled after the small pickups sold in America, specifically the Ford Maverick.

The anticipated fuel source for the rampage involves a 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine that it shares with various other automobiles including Jeep, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati. Per Carscoop’s report.

The prior Rampage previews released by Ram showed that its interior components will include leather seating and a rotary dial gear shifter, as well as technical upgrades such as an infotainment screen measuring 10.25 inches.

Later in the year, Ram will provide more information about the Rampage’s pricing and specs.

Australia’s top-selling vehicles such as Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger

Working toward developing a mid-size pickup truck was revealed by Ram’s CEO Mike Koval to Australian journalists during an interview held at the New York Auto Show last April. Still, it is only present as a notion.

People have continuously talked about the possibility of reintroducing a Ram mid-size pickup for ages. Still, I am unwavering in achieving our objectives with the aid of my steadfast management crew who will make certain its production. This project’s delivery is under our control.

The first step towards achieving global accessibility for our future vehicles would be the (next-generation Ram 1500).

Because it has gained popularity in Australia, an updated version of Ram Dakota may be produced by the company’s US factory. The available options would be either electric or petrol-powered engines and a model with right-hand drive.

A simple tool shows promise for identifying cancer survivors struggling with concerns their cancer will return.

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is one of the most common and distressing concerns cancer survivors have. For many, it can be debilitating and signifcantly impact their wellbeing in everyday

cancer survivors. The single-item measure – a simple question asking survivors to rate their level of FCR on a 0-10 scale – could inform further development of the patient-reported measures system

ways of identifying FCR, but they’re too long for initial screening in clinical practice,” says the study’s lead author, Dr Ben Smith, a Senior Research Fellow at South West Sydney Clinical Campuses,

survivors experience clinically signifcant FCR, associated with psychological distress, poorer quality of life and greater healthcare use.

“Getting help to cope with FCR is a top reported unmet need by cancer survivors, above pain, fatigue and other physical symptoms,” Dr Smith says. “The fear can cause considerable distress and can signifcantly impact the quality of life and future planning for cancer survivors and their loved ones.”

treatment currently being trialled. But they will go underutilised if we can’t identify the people who need them in the frst place.”

Identifying fear of cancer recurrence early

For the research, the team tested the ability of the single-item FCR screening tool to aid in identifying FCR in routine cancer care.

attention.

life.

However, FCR is not always easy to identify in practice as it is not closely related to cancer type, stage or treatment, and there can be reluctance from both survivors and clinicians to discuss it. Furthermore, FCR is not usually part of standard post-treatment assessments in cancer care.

But new research led by UNSW Sydney shows a simple screening tool may help with early identifcation of FCR in

currently in place across NSW and similar systems used in cancer care globally.

According to the researchers, doing so may help reduce the signifcant burden of FCR on mental health, quality of life and healthcare costs. The study was supported by a Cancer Institute NSW Career Development Fellowship, and the fndings are published today in the journal Psycho-Oncology.

“We have wellvalidated and established

UNSW Medicine & Health. “A single-item measure is a tool that can be used to briefy screen for FCR and ft within the patient-reported outcome measures systems we already use to identify other symptoms and sideeffects post-treatment.”

A prevalent unmet need

More than 50 million people are living with and beyond cancer worldwide. It’s estimated over half of all cancer

Much of the research into FCR to date has focused on establishing a set of viable interventions to treat FCR. However, a signifcant gap still exists in screening and treatment pathways.

“Without treatment, FCR may persist for many years, even in survivors with good prognoses,” Dr Smith says.

“We have effective evidence-based interventions for treating FCR, such as the one-onone therapist-delivered program ConquerFear, and innovative digital treatments like iConquerFear aiming to increase access to FCR

They analysed data from 107 adult survivors of different types of cancer recruited from two cancer care centres in South Western Sydney Local Health District, and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre as part of Fear-Less, a steppedcare program for people with cancer experiencing FCR.

Comparing participants’ scores from the singleitem measure with their results from a Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory-Short Form (FCRI-SF) measure – a well-established scale for in-depth assessment of FCR in research – they found the single-item measure effectively measured FCR and could identify cancer survivors with clinically signifcant FCR needing further

“The single-item test asks survivors to rate their fear of recurrence on a zero to 10 scale – which is an easy question for patients to interpret – and gives an accurate measure of FCR comparable to more comprehensive, lengthier measures,” Dr Smith says. “The fndings suggest singleitem FCR measures are a useful case-fnding tool to identify whether a person needs help with FCR early, and we think it is feasible for clinicians to start using it in healthcare settings.”

When implemented in practice, the researchers note that the single-item measure would ideally be followed by secondary tools to assess FCR severity and select the appropriate interventions for patients from the options available.

“We would like to see more data collected about how it works in the routine care setting, and we think it’s ready for that stage,” Dr Smith says. “We would also like to see how it works with people from different cultural and language groups who may experience and report FCR differently.”

New study uncovers potential therapeutic target for breast cancer

Research conducted at the Centenary Institute has unveiled crucial insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms of breast

cancer. The fndings could lead to a more effective treatment for the disease, which claims the lives of over 3,000 Australian women and

men annually. The study, involving mice, focused on the role of a protein known as VIRMA in breast tumour growth.

Researchers found that abnormally high levels of VIRMA plays a key role in promoting the development of breast cancer cells and is closely associated with poor survival outcomes.

Specifcally, the study revealed that a distinct variant of VIRMA, localised within the cell nucleus, is amplifed and overexpressed in 15–20% of breast cancers. VIRMA was shown to drive the growth of breast cancer cells by infuencing a chemical modifcation of RNA molecules.

Additionally, the research identifed a specifc RNA molecule called NEAT1, which interacts with VIRMA and that also promotes the growth of cancer cells.

Dr Justin Wong, Head of the Epigenetics and RNA Biology Program at the Centenary Institute, as well as senior author of the study, expressed his enthusiasm about the research’s most exciting observation. He noted that breast cancer cells with elevated levels of VIRMA exhibited heightened susceptibility to death under prolonged stressful conditions. This newfound vulnerability could pave the way for a novel therapeutic strategy to treat breast

cancer.

“Based on our fndings, we can repurpose certain therapeutic drugs that trigger stress response to target and eliminate breast cancer cells that have high levels of VIRMA. By targeting VIRMA-overexpressing

Wong.

Dr Wong added, “Breast cancer remains a pressing public health concern and this research breakthrough provides renewed hope for the development of targeted and impactful treatments.”

cancer cells, the aim is to enhance stress response in cancer cells and ultimately force them to commit suicide,” said Dr

The fndings of the study were published in the journal Cellular and Molecular Life Science.

Clinical screening can identify fear of cancer recurrence

New study uncovers potential therapeutic target for breast cancer

New study reduces risks associated with MS medication

A best treatment pathway has been identifed for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) whose current medication puts them at risk of a serious brain infection.

MS patients who take the highly effective drug natalizumab are monitored regularly for their risk of developing a potentially deadly brain infection known as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), caused by a human virus called John Cunningham virus (JCV).

Even though the risk of PML is small, the prognosis is poor with an average six-month life expectancy.

If their six-monthly blood monitoring shows an increased risk of JCV, many patients switch treatment, but patients who stop taking natalizumab can be at risk of severe MS relapses. Until now, understanding which alternative drug would

be best was not known.

Published in JAMA

Neurology, the study identifed which of the drugs dimethyl fumarate, fngolimod and ocrelizumab is most effective after stopping natalizumab.

They analysed real world data collected from the international MSBase registry tracking outcomes in over 89,000 patients with multiple sclerosis.

The study identifed 1386 patients world-wide who had changed from natalizumab to dimethyl fumarate, fngolimod and ocrelizumab.

Ocrelizumab was the most effective in patients who had stopped taking natalizumab. Relapse risk and discontinuation rates were lower for ocrelizumab than dimethyl fumarate and fngolimod.

First author Dr Chao Zhu, of the Monash University Central Clinical School’s Department of

Neuroscience, said the fndings were important globally for clinicians and patients. He said they could help inform treatment decision making and maximise

limited treatment options available due to the high costs to produce some of the newer, more effective drugs, or have strict guidelines on what can be used as frst line

Senior author Professor Helmut Butzkueven, of the Monash University Central Clinical School Department of Neuroscience, and The Alfred’s Department of

using a blood test.

“If patients need to change their medication from natalizumab, which is highly effective in treating MS, it can be an anxious and distressing

an optimal strategy for patients who need to stop natalizumab.

“Some countries have

treatment or some cannot be used if women intend on childbearing,” Dr Zhu said.

Neurology, said it was important for clinicians to monitor MS patients for their risk of JCV

time. Our study helps neurologists and patients make a better-informed choice.”

Cheaper access to lifesaving medications

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has expressed its support for the federal government’s decision to make medicines more affordable and easier to access. Health and

to 60 days’ worth for more than 320 medicines on the Pharmaceutical Benefts Scheme. This will halve the dispensing fees for the medicines.

Currently, patients are limited to a 28- or 30-day supply, forcing

September, will save patients up to $180 a year on medications for chronic conditions like heart disease and hypertension.

RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins said it was a momentous day

more important time to save patients money and time,” she said. “This announcement shows the tide is fnally turning.”

The RACGP President was also quick to address any potential concerns from the Pharmacy Guild, noting that there was no evidence of a shortage of the medications included in the announcement. “A recent Westpac report found that pharmacies are reaping record profts,” she said. “Some pharmacy owners may be concerned that they will lose retail sales; however, at the end of the day cheaper access to lifesaving medications must come before retail sales, it’s as simple as that.”

which stops pharmacies from discounting medicines that cost more than the current copayment of $30.

The RACGP President also said that overhauling Australia’s anti-competitive pharmacy ownership and location laws would be benefcial, as it would help to reduce costs for patients.

Overall, the RACGP President expressed her enthusiasm for the government’s decision and said that today is a

great day for Australian patients. “The tide is turning, and patient well-being is front and centre – right where it should be,” she said. “Let’s go even further and extend the length of prescriptions for patients with stable chronic conditions. Mark my words, this is just the beginning.” The results of a poll of more than 1,000 GPs, which asked whether their patients would beneft from doubling dispensing times to 60 days, found that 85% said “yes”.

Aged Care Minister

Mark Butler announced today that the amount of medicine a pharmacy can dispense to a patient will be doubled to up

them to take multiple trips to the pharmacy for medications for stable conditions. The changes, which will come into effect on 1

for patients. “Cost of living pressures are placing tremendous strain on households across Australia, so there has never been a

Dr Higgins further called on the nation’s leaders to remain steadfast and focus on what’s best for the patient. She said there is still plenty of work to be done, including extending the length of prescriptions for patients with stable chronic conditions and revising the $1 discount rule,

Practicing

New study reduces risks associated with MS medication

Health and Aged Care Minister Mark Butler.

Caring for Citrus Trees

BY JEFFREY GIBBS

Backyard gardeners often choose to plant citrus trees due to their popularity and suitability for the local climate. Lemons, oranges, manderines, limes, cumquats and grapefruits belong to the category of citrus fruits which can be grown successfully in gardens or big containers. To ensure optimum crop production from your trees, consistent care is necessary throughout the year. Maximize the growth potential of your citrus by using our expert tips and seasonal guide.

Location

Plant various citrus varieties in an area with ample sunlight and protection from chilly gusts. Citrus trees in regions with harsh winter conditions can be grown successfully by placing them near a warm wall that faces the north and offers protection from the chilly southern winds. If a location with full sunlight is not possible, opt for a spot that receives sun for six to eight hours in the morning.

Planting

Having good soil drainage helps ensure that citrus stays healthy. Whether placed in a garden bed or a pot, these plants grow equally well provided that they receive their required care. For optimal growth of your citrus, pick a position with proper drainage. For better soil

drainage when dealing with slow-draining earth beds, try planting citrus fruit into larger containers or elevated beds full of specialized potting mix. For optimal results, consider utilizing Supersoil’s Rose & Citrus Potting & Planting Mix. Make sure any pot or container you utilize has holes at the bottom for drainage. A plant variety grafted onto dwarf rootstock is the most suitable option for container usage. The end result of this approach is a manageable plant with typical-sized fruits. The ideal times for planting citrus trees are from autumn to spring (it’s best to avoid planting during excessively hot or cold periods).

Seasonal citrus care

Evergreen citrus trees have leaves all year long. In general, most kinds will start fowering during springtime (or later part of winter), while their fruits ripen by late summer. Yet there are still several which can blossom or/and bear fruits whenever they desire.

• To prevent plants from drying out, water them regularly. Irregular watering and abundant rainfall during orange maturation can result in fruit splitting.

• Make sure to give your citrus plants complete citrus food during mid to late summer (following the instructions mentioned on the fertiliser bag or container). Try

out Gyganic for your Fruit and Citrus needs. Container-grown plants require monthly watering with small amounts during the summer to early autumn.

• Thinning out could be essential when crops mature and their weight increases because weak branches cannot withstand additional pressure. Pay attention to pests similar to those illustrated in this picture, such as the bronze orange bug or spined citrus bug, which can leave unsightly marks and make the fruit taste less fresh. Stink bugs frequently form clusters on tree trunks when it’s hot outside. Be cautious when removing pests. Prevent any irritation from the bugs’ defensive spray by wearing protective glasses.

• During summer, scale may appear on citrus trees (though it can affect them anytime). The hard waxy covering of this insect usually comes in the colours white, brown, or black and serves as its protective shield. There are several locations where scale may be discovered: underneath leaves; attached to twigs and stems; or present on fruit. Deal with the issue by crushing individual clusters and using a horticultural spray oil, like Pest Oil.

• The citrus leaf miner is responsible for leaving silver trails on leaves and causing them to pucker in most cases during summer. Even though fruit production remains unaffected by this pest, its presence can be unsightly. Your greatest protection is Success Ultra.

• Citrus trees often attract ants because of the presence of scale insects, aphids or mealy bugs. Regulating the pest often regulates the ants. If you see black sooty mould on leaves, it may indicate a pest attack has occurred.

Stopping the source of sooty mould is typically achieved by removing the pest. Spraying a soap spray like Natrasoap from Nature’s Way Herb and Vegie Spray can effectively remove it.

• Mites are a common nuisance for citrus farmers during humid summers. Webbing under leaves as well as misshapen fruit and speckled or discoloured foliage can indicate a mite infestation that requires attention. Administer eco-oil for healing.

• Keep an eye on developing fruits for indications of pest assault that may include possums, rats, birds and fruit fy (as seen on the right). Protect your individual fruit clusters from harm by using exclusion bags or stretching tautly some bird- and bat-safe white knitted netting over the trees where necessary. Inspecting netted trees regularly is crucial in preventing the entrapment of animals, birds and reptiles.

• Your garden may still be facing issues caused by citrus leaf miner during the autumn season. Use Success Ultra to treat.

• Utilize organic splash baits and lures such as eco-naturalure to protect your fruit from fruit fy. The vulnerability of fruits such as mandarin to fruit fy attack is quite high due to their thin skin.

Harvesting citrus fruit can happen as needed since they hold up well on the tree. Although, mandarins must be collected at the right time since overripe fruit loses its taste and its skin swells up. Checking the size and colour of the fruit helps in gauging its ripeness. Additionally, taking a few samples by harvesting them may help confrm their level of sweetness. Ripe citrus fruit is generally sweeter

in taste. The process of re-greening may occur in oranges after they have ripened as a means of naturally safeguarding against the harmful effects of the sun. Give acidic fruit more time to fully develop.

• Move your potted citrus into a frost-free location for the duration of winter.

• Control juvenile life cycle bronze orange bugs during winter by utilizing horticultural spray oil like Pest Oil.

• During late winter, generously water your plants after applying complete citrus food like Gyganic.

• A decrease in temperature can cause nutrient defciency and result in yellowing leaves. The leaf colour should get better with the rising temperatures. Apply if the leaves remain yellow. Use Yates Leaf Greener Iron Chelate or Yates Health Tonic Trace Element Chelates and check watering.

• Cold exposure is often indicated by curled leaves. If the tree is not shielded from the cold, explore options for increasing its shelter such as creating a partition.

• Flowering may begin in late winter.

• Envision perfumed citrus petals appearing in the spring season. Collect any leftover fruit (even if lemons can accommodate mature, immature fruit and fowers simultaneously).

• Ensure that plants receive consistent watering during the fowering and fruit formation stage, particularly if the spring season is arid or if they are subjected to hot and dry winds.

Unripe fruits falling off trees may occur naturally when exposed to cold temperatures, dryness in tree and excessive crop loads. This process occurs naturally.

• Late winter

feeding of plants being skipped means applying a complete citrus food such as Gyganic is essential to come early spring.

Weed around the tree to remove all undesirable plants and place a thin layer of natural mulch on top, like sugar cane. Make sure not to heap up any mulch near the tree’s stem.

• During spring, citrus leaf miner may attack new growth after a quiet winter. To achieve success, use Success Ultra.

• Pay attention to new growth, which may attract aphids. Squishing the aphids or blasting them with water from the hose are both effective methods. Spray the plants with an organic aphid control like Nature’s Way Herb and Vegie Spray Natrasoap as another option.

• Citrus trees don’t require pruning for fruit production, but if you need to manage their size, then prune them in spring. Don’t prune during the summer months since the wood that’s exposed could get sunburned. Anytime is appropriate for removing dead wood. new growth after a quiet winter. To achieve success, use Success Ultra.

• Pay attention to new growth, which may attract aphids. Squishing the aphids or blasting them with water from the hose are both effective methods. Spray the plants with an organic aphid control like Nature’s Way Herb and Vegie Spray Natrasoap as another option.

• Citrus trees don’t require pruning for fruit production, but if you need to manage their size, then prune them in spring. Don’t prune during the summer months since the wood that’s exposed could get sunburned. Anytime is appropriate for removing dead wood.

CREAMY VEGAN TOMATO SOUP WITH SPINACH AND RICOTTA RAVIOLI

13 INGREDIENTS

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 brown onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, chopped

• 800g can whole peeled tomatoes

• 1 large potato, peeled, diced

• 2 cups Massel Vegetable Liquid Stock

• 1 tsp dried oregano

3 METHOD STEPS

Step 1

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.

Add onion and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6 minutes or until softened.

Add tomato, potato, stock and oregano. Bring to the boil. Cover.

Reduce heat to medium. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 2

Remove from heat. Add almond milk.

10m prep

5 INGREDIENTS

• 500g 4 Star Beef Mince

• 6 Lasagne Sheets

• 490g jar bechamel sauce

• 1 cup almond milk

• 300g packet vegan spinach and ricotta ravioli

• 150g baby spinach

• Baby spinach, plus extra to serve

• Extra virgin olive oil, to serve

• Fresh basil leaves, to serve

Using a stick blender, carefully blend mixture until smooth. Keep warm.

Step 3

Cook pasta following packet directions. Drain. Add spinach to soup.

Stir until starting to wilt. Divide soup among serving bowls. Add pasta. Season with pepper. Drizzle with a little extra oil.

Serve topped with basil and extra spinach.

CHEAT’S BEEF LASAGNE

50m cook 4 servings

• 700g jar Italian Tomato & Basil Passata

• 1 cup (120g) shredded pizza cheese

3 METHOD STEPS

Step 1

Preheat oven to 180°C. Heat a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.

Add mince and cook, stirring with a wooden spoon to

10m prep 25m prep

break up any lumps, for 5 mins or until the mince changes colour. Add the passata and stir to combine. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10

35m cook 60m cook

4 servings mins or until the mince mixture thickens slightly.

Step 2

Spread one-third of the mince mixture over the base of a 6-cup (1.5L) ovenproof dish.

Top with 2 lasagne sheets, trimming to ft if necessary.

Spread with one-third of the bechamel sauce and sprinkle with one-third of the cheese.

Continue layering with the remaining mince mixture, lasagne sheets, bechamel sauce and cheese.

Step 3

Bake for 35 mins or until golden brown and cooked through.

Set aside for 5 mins to cool slightly.

CHOC-MALT CAKE WITH SALTED CARAMEL SAUCE

13 INGREDIENTS

• 200g butter, chopped

• 200g dark chocolate, chopped

• 4 eggs, separated

• 1 cup caster sugar

• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste

• 1/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder

• 1/4 cup plain four

• 1/2 cup malted milk powder

5 METHOD STEPS

Step 1

Preheat oven to 170C/150C fan-forced.

Grease a 6cm-deep, 22cm round springform pan.

Line base and side with 2 layers of baking paper

Step 2

Place butter and chocolate in a saucepan over medium heat.

Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes or until mixture is smooth and combined.

Remove from heat. Stand for 5 minutes.

Step 3

Using an electric mixer, beat yolks, sugar and vanilla for 5 to 6 minutes or until thick and creamy.

Gradually beat in chocolate mixture until combined.

Add cocoa, four, milk powder and almond meal. Beat on low speed until just combined.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until justfrm peaks form.

• 1/3 cup almond meal

Salted caramel sauce

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 50g butter, chopped

• 300ml thickened cream

• 1 tsp sea salt, plus extra to serve

Fold 1/2 the egg white into the chocolate mixture (chocolate mixture will be quite thick at this stage).

Fold in remaining egg white. Pour mixture into prepared pan.

Place on a baking tray. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until cake is just frm to touch.

Cool completely in pan.

Step 5 Make Salted Caramel Sauce

Place sugar, butter and cream in a saucepan over medium heat.

Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until the sugar is dissolved and mixture is combined. Bring to a simmer. Simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Stir in salt. Drizzle cake with 1/2 the sauce. Sprinkle with extra sea salt.

Serve with remaining sauce and cream or icecream.

Death Notice

ROSS BRUCE

29.06.1939 – 03.06.2023

Passed away peacefully at RSL LifeCare Ballina, aged 83 years.

Late of Skennars Head and formerly of Lismore and Inverell.

Devoted husband to Diana (dec). Dearly loved father and father-in-law of Geo rey & Judith, Alison & Don, Jennifer & Chris. Caring, funny and warm Pop to his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Privately cremated.

BALLINA 6680 7090

Death Notice

Kevin Douglas Gray

Aged 60 years. Died 14th May. Service was held at Casino Parkview Home on the 1st of June.

Loved son of Doug and Shirley Gray Loved brother and brother-in-law of Thomas (deceased) Ron and Gwen, Loved uncle of Alison, Kal, John, and Jody.

Loved and Sadly Missed

This page is dedicated to all those that have passed

Funeral Directors & Services

Position Vacant Cook / Catering positions

Care / AIN positions

Richmond Lodge, Casino (30 beds)

What a relief! e Federal Government recently announced that aged care sta are set to receive the recognition they deserve, with wages for aged care sta set to increase by 15% in July.

We are looking for new team members to join our small but friendly home. Most importantly you will be in a position to bring a high level of service, care and satisfaction to our residents in their later years, supported by a fabulous team working for a not-for-pro t organisation that has been in the caring business for over 80 years.

Cook / Kitchen Sta

We need great cooks & capable kitchen hands.

Essential:

• Knowledge in providing nutrition to the elderly (incl. special diets)

• Working knowledge of HACCP, but not essential. Ability to work independently with demonstrated cooking abilities.

• Flexible and happy to work a rotating roster.

• A passion for caring for others and delivering great food!

Care Services Sta / AINs

Essential:

• Caring compassionate individuals. A desire and willingness to work with each resident to empower them to continue to do the things that they love.

• Current First Aid Certi cate desirable.

• A Certi cate III in Aged Care or Individual Support (or working towards)

• Team player who is highly motivated with excellent communication skills

• Availability to work various shi s across various days

Please forward your expressions of interest and CV to the Care Manager admin.richmond@northcoast.upa.org.auenquiries welcome to 02 6662 1937

Position Vacant

Registered Nurse (30 beds)

We’re excited about the Federal Government’s announcement to increase wages for RNs and are now looking for the right person to join our clinical team. Wages are set to increase by 15% in July.

Our RNs enjoy working closely with sta , consumers and their health practitioners in a small friendly home. Most importantly you will be in a position to bring a high level of care and satisfaction to our residents in their later years.

Essential:

• Full unrestricted AHPRA registration as a Registered Nurse

• Experience in Aged Care Nursing but not essential. A willingness to learn.

• An individual who values compassion, respect, integrity, kindness, and inclusiveness.

Bene ts and Perks

• From $44 ph. + Plus super and leave loading.

• Salary packaging options (up to $15,900 living expenses & $2,650 entertainment bene ts, tax free)

• Access to a Wellness Program & $200 annual payment

• Up to $500 retention bonus for permanent appointments

• Financial support for AHPRA registration (including payment of annual fees)

• Supportive and friendly work environment

• Work/life balance and exible working arrangements available

Pre-employment screening e successful candidate is required to complete UPA’s pre-employment screening process including a police check.

Interested?

Please email your interest/application to careers@northcoast.upa.org.au or call 02 6628 5559 for a chat.

Machinery & Equipment: Seadoo WakePro 215 Jet ski + trailer (Registered) , Farmtech Aerator Series 127 (13ft), Kuhn Fertilizer Spreader MDS935M (2005 Model), Honda Quad Bike TRX420FM2 4WD 2014, John Deere X595 Tractor Mower, Toyota Landcruiser Ute with Tip Tray 2008 model 448,000km (Registered) Toyota Hilux 2002 model 318,000km (Unregistered), Farm Trailer (Registered) Heavy duty 12V Fuel transfer pump (petrol), 200L Silvan Selector Diesel Tank, Sincro EW200AC Stick Welder & Generator, C-Dax Calf carrier and cradle, 12ft C-Dax Eliminator Wick Wiper (90L tank), C-Dax SpreadMaster, Spitwater Pressure Cleaner, C-Dax Wick Wiper Frame (Parts only), C-Dax Boom Frame with Foam Maker, Honda 5.5 Air Compressor, Honda Firefghter pumps, 7x Flat frefghter hoses, Firefghting Trailer 1000L IBC (with pump), Silvan Selecta 100L Spray unit, Silvan Selecta 50L Spray unit, Bertolini 400L Spray unit, Polaris 70L Spray unit, Heavy Duty Toolmag Drill Press (16 Speed), Pedestal 3 Phrase Bench Grinder, 8000L Steel Slide in water tank, 5000L Steel water tank, Steel water tank stand, Excavator Digging & Trenching Buckets, Polaris custom made tray Stihl M15190C Chainsaw, Stihl MS190T Chainsaw, Stihl MS361 Chainsaw, Makita 4500 Chainsaw Husqvarna 61 Chainsaw, Husqvarna 137 Chainsaw, Husqvarna 236 Chainsaw, Stihl Hedge Trimmer Stihl Blower, Stihl Battery Chainsaws x2, Stihl Battery Hedge Trimmer, Stihl Battery Whipper Snipper, Large quantity of Electric Fencing Gear Including Posts, Tape, Standoffs, Solar Energizers. Large Quantity of Gall & Black Steel Posts (new & used), Large Quantity of Fencing Gear including Barbed Wire, Wire Strainers, Pliers. Quantity of feed & Water troughs, Quantity of Sawn Timber (suitable for cattle yards), Quantity of Steel Gates, Large Quantity of Steel Railway line, large quantity of Miscellaneous Steel including Flat, Pipe, Rio & Scrap Steel, Large Selection of Farm Gates, Cattle Yard Panels & Yard Gates, Large Quantity of Poly Fittings, Irrigation Fittings & Floats. Large Quantity of Concrete Culverts (different sizes), Large Quantity of Concrete Lined Steel Pipe and a Variety of Concrete Pipe (used) 1200cm-1800cm diameter.

Tools & Sundries: Toolex Pipe Bender Variety of Borer Bits, Tap Pits, 2inch Flexible Suction Line, Jerry Cans Hexamine Firelighters, Rio Mesh, Roll of Waterproof Geotech, Quantity of Galvanized Hand Rails 4x Square Pit Risers, Quantity of Plastic Ribbed Pipe & PVC Pipe, Large Quantity of workshop equipment including Drop Saws, Bench Grinders, Endless Chains + Girder Trolleys, Dogs & Chains Snigging Chains & Lifting Chains, Car Jacks, Truck Jacks, Hydraulic Rams, Hydraulic Hoses & Fittings, D Shackles, Toolboxes, 12x Rust Guard 4L tins.

Items listed are only a selection of the many items on offer. A sale suitable for the farmer, a rural contractor or a tool enthusiast.

P: 1300 679 787

ALSTONVILLE

ALSTONVILLE BRANCH OF THE RED CROSS

The Alstonville Red Cross branch meets monthly in Alstonville. As meeting dates sometimes vary, please call Carol on 0424 742 774 for details of our next meeting.

ALSTONVILLE & DISTRICT

CRICKET CLUB

Alstonville & District Cricket Club will be celebrating its 50th year of existence since the amalgamation of the two village clubs on the plateau - Alstonville & Wollongbar on 10th July 1973.

The reunion of former and current players will take place on Sat 21st & Sun 22nd October weekend. Plans include a Welcome BBQ luncheon at one of the home competition games being played at either Hill Park, Wollongbar or Geoff Watt Oval, Alstonville on the Sat 21st Oct. (Cricket draw for season 2023/24 still to be determined).

Drinks will continue to fow from 4:00pm onwards at the Alstonville Plateau Sports Club. On Sun 22nd Oct, a special luncheon will be held from mid-day onwards at the Sports Club. Guests will be entertained with cricket stories from each decade and all attending former and current 1st Grade players will receive a keyring with their playing number attached (in line with the sequence of selection). Leading into the reunion celebrations, an ‘Old Mates’ group will meet every month at ‘The Crossing Cafe’ Main Street, Alstonville for a social gathering and beverage to renew old friendships and forming new ones.

For further enquiries for cricket reunion contact Jack Oates (mob: 0429 533 940) or for ‘Old Mates’ contact Garry Ensbey (mob: 0403 033 227)

ALSTONVILLE PLATEAU

HISTORICAL SOCIETY

the month at the Plateau Sports Club. Quota is committed to supporting and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the disadvantaged in our community through local projects.

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

Come and celebrate the centenary of Legacy and its important work at the latest exhibition at Crawford House Museum at Alstonville. Legacy is dedicated to caring for the families of fallen or seriously injured veterans. The Far North Coast Branch of Legacy is partnering with the Alstonville Plateau Historical Society to present this exhibition. It runs until Friday 30th June and the Society will donate all entry fees to Legacy. The museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open Fridays 10am-4pm and Sundays 1pm-4pm or at other times by appointment for groups. Enquiries (02) 6628 1829

EMBROIDERERS GROUP

Meetings are 9.30am-2.30pm 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month except December and January. Our venue is the Resource Centre at the rear of Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. We welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet, share and learn.

MCLEANS RIDGES CRAFT

GROUP meet at the McLeans Ridges Hall, Cowlong Road, McLeans Ridges on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Scrapbooking, card making, paper craft, knitting whatever takes your fancy. Come along for an enjoyable day. Bring your own morning tea and lunch. Coffee, tea, milk provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.

SQUARE DANCING

Email:

Email:

Legacy is celebrating its centenary and the speaker at Alstonville Plateau Historical Society’s next monthly meeting on Sunday 18th June at 2pm will be Narelle Scott, President of the Far North Coast Branch of Legacy, who will describe Legacy’s important work caring for the families of fallen or seriously injured veterans. The meeting will be held in the Community Resource Centre at Crawford House Museum, 10 Wardell Road, Alstonville. Visitors are very welcome; entry is free, and no booking is required. Enquiries (02) 6628 1829,

ALSTONVILLE PROBUS

CLUB

Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cuppa and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are welcome.

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

A local women’s service club that meets on the 1st Tuesday of

BALLINA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE INC. (BACCI)

We are a diverse group of Artists and Crafters that participate in wonderful group exhibitions. Over 50 members are from all over the Northern Rivers. Meetings are usually on the 1st Monday of every month at the Cherry Street Sports Club. Social gathering at 5, for a 5.30 start.

Ph: Deb on 0432105540

BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB

“Social play every Monday 9-11.30am”. Sessions for all levels of players on Mon, Wed, Sat from 1pm to about 5pm. Be seated at 12:45. Restricted session (under 300 Masterpoints) Thu 1pm – about 5pm. Friday mornings, Help with Play. Open to anyone who would like some help with their game from teachers on duty. 9am to about 11:15pm. Sessions are $5 for members and $7 for visitors at 13 North Ck Rd, Ballina. Call Judy Forsyth: 0407664337.

BALLINA CWA BRANCH

Ladies that are at a loose end on a Wednesday morning, might like to come and join our happy band of members. We meet every Wednesday from 9.00am to noon and can learn many crafts from fellow ladies. Barbara, our Handicraft’s Offcer (0428116668) is there to lend a hand when help is needed. She also teaches us new handicraft techniques. If you have any UFO’s (unfnished objects) why not call in to see us for the morning? Morning tea is served at a cost of just $3. All are welcome.

Mahjong is played in our rooms every Wednesday and Thursday from 12.30pm at a cost of $4. Everyone welcome.

BALLINA EVENING VIEW CLUB

cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249

BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE CLUB

Social Bridge Play in Seniors Hall. Swift Street Ballina on Wednesday & Saturdays @ 12.05 pm

Enquiries Phone: 0493425002 for details.

BALLINA TOY LIBRARY

Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina.

Open Tuesdays 1pm - 3pm, and Saturdays 10am - 1pm. Ph. 0411719074.

IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

How about trying something different? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.

NORTHERN RIVERS NAVAL & MARINERS ASSOCIATION

This association was formed to attract veterans for companionship, wellbeing and to supply advocacy to veterans. We hold an informal gathering every Friday, 2.30pm at Ballina Angling Club (families are welcome). Ph: Allan Watt 0402 749 582

PROBUS CLUB OF BALLINA WATERS

Summerland Larrikins Squares Alstonville, Fridays 7.30pm9.30pm at Uniting Church Hall, 59 Main Street, Alstonville. Contact 0407663017 for further information. New dancers welcome.

THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA (NSW Branch)

ALSTONVILLE SUBBRANCH

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch will now hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am at the RSL Hall, 13 Bugden Ave (next door to the Alstonville Medical Centre).

All ex-Service persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning tea on completion of the meeting. Alstonville RSL sub-Branch have a ‘Lower Deck Luncheon’ at 1200 each Friday, everyone is welcome, we sit out the back of the Hall, order lunch from local suppliers, and have great conversations with good mates. There is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!

BALLINA

Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club at 6.30 for dinner at 7pm - Guests are always welcome. Our members support the education of disadvantaged children in Australia by fundraising activities and social events in our local community for The Smith Family - by sponsoring 5 Learning for Life students. Ph: Julie Stephan 0434988770.

BALLINA FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH

Ballina Free Community Hot Brunch

First Saturday of each month. Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a hot brunch of sausages, rissoles bacon & eggs, cereal, tea and coffee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take away meals available.

Carol: 0438812235

BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE RSL DAY CLUB

A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment.

Every Thursday 10am to 2pm

The Probus Club of Ballina Waters will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday 21st June at the Cherry Street Sports Club commencing at 10.00 a.m. The guest speakers will be the District Chairman of Probus, who will present a Certifcate to recognise 35 years since the Club was formed. This club is a mixed club and both men and women are invited to join us for a range of interesting social functions. Ph: Brian 0432277170.

BRUNSWICK HEADS

BRUNSWICK VALLEY VIEW CLUB

Brunswick Valley VIEW Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10.30am for 11am. Apologies to Wenda on 0449 563 580 no later than the Monday before. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women. The club supports seven disadvantaged students in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. 1800 805 366

CASINO

CASINO & BONALBO

UPPER CLARENCE LIONS

CLUBS

Casino Lions club now meets each 4th Wed at the RSM.

CASINO COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED

Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am1.30pm. Contact 66626423

CASINO CROQUET CLUB

Casino Croquet Club members are reminded that the winter playing times will commence from 6th June. Arrival time for setting the greens will be 12md for start of play at 12.30pm. New players are welcome to come along for your free trial games. Mallets are available. Bring afternoon tea and join us in a cuppa following play. Thanking you.

Jean Andrews (Publicity Offcer, Casino Croquet Club)

CASINO COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB INC

Will be holding their next social upstairs at the Casino RSM Club on Sunday the 18th of June from 10.00am

Come along and enjoy some great country music and take advantage of the meals & drinks offered by the RSM Club.

New Artists always welcome. Free entry, raffes and lucky door

prize

More Info contact Carole 0438641500

CASINO & DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY GROUP INC

We are open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm, Wednesdays from 12pm to 4pm and every third Saturday from 9 am to 11.30 am.

We are in Room 5, upstairs in the School of Arts building in Walker Street, Casino. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am.

For a small fee we can do research for you as well.

Call 6664 1118

CASINO EVENING BRANCH OF CWA

The Casino Evening Branch of the CWA meets on the frst Thursday of the month at the Casino Uniting Church Hall at 6pm. Come along and have supper and fnd out what we do.

All welcome.

Enquiries to: Jo 0417798622

CASINO FUN DAY OUT FOR SENIORS

A day out for ALL LONELY PEOPLE of our aged communities from Casino, Kyogle, Lismore, Coraki, Woodburn and Evans Head. Feel free to get your own group together for a great day.

Where: Casino RSM Club

Date: Friday 15th September 2023

Time: 10.30am-2.30pm

Cost: $10

10.30am: Sandra Binney-Solicitor, information on necessity of wills, power of attorney and guardianship.

10.45am: Vivianna- Pharmacist @ Scrivener & Webb, information about available and supplied services.

11.00am: Gerard Dunlop- Seniors Right Service, information about rights as older citizens.

11.20am: Lucky Door Prizes and Raffes Drawn.

12.00pm: Light lunch served with tea/coffee.

12.45pm: Entertainment from The Minstrels.

Contact: Jan Danaher- 0414625680 for Transport, Seating, Catering

Purposes and any other Enquiries.

CASINO GALLERY-ART at the CASSINO GALLERY.

The Casino Art Group meets here every Thursday to Saturdays 10am to 3pm Interested in promoting YOUR medium? Come to the gallery for information.

CASINO HOSPITAL

AUXILIARY needs volunteers to work in the hospital kiosk. Roster days are negotiable and can be discussed with the Kiosk Supervisor by contacting Barbara on 0439607788 or phoning the hospital kiosk during the day on 66600539.

CASINO LADIES AND FRIEND

CRAFT GROUP

Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month. Bring your own morning tea. Names to be in by lunch time Monday. Phone Vivian on 66621838 or Jan on 66626424.

CASINO MEALS ON WHEELS

If you would be interested in volunteering your time to help with meals on wheels give the offce a call on 66621217.

WEEK 1

MONDAY

D.Clarke & D.Allen

J. & J. Whittaker

TUESDAY K.Evans & K.Rowse

WEDNESDAY

L.Douglas K.Bratti & own help

THURSDAY H.Mofftt & J.Hanna M.Goodlad & own help

FRIDAY

L. Dorrington & S.Forrester P.Plunkett & Own help

CASINO MINI RAIL

Every Sunday 10am to 4pm. Weather permitting. West Street Casino. Phone 0455673722.

CASINO MIXED PROBUS CLUB

Our Meeting is on fourth Thursday of each month at Casino RSM Club at 10:00am. Contact Kathleen Griffns, President phone 0427622470 or Daphne Boyd, Secretary phone 0400070085.

CASINO UNITING CHURCH

CAFÉ PRAISE…. Every Wednesday @ 10-11am. All

Welcome 10am Morning Tea Fellowship.

Welcome and Chat

10.30am Praise and Worship

CASINO VIEW CLUB

Monthly luncheon meeting at Casino RSM Club at 11am, second Thurs of every month. Contact Jan on 0418715374

AA-LIVING SOBER MEETING

is held every Tuesday 12:001:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church Cnr. West & Canterbury Streets Casino Each week The group will discuss a chapter on living sober out of the AA Living Sober Book. Contact George 0427133372 please leave your name and number and I will call

you back.

CWA CASINO DAY

The CWA Casino Day invites everyone to our June meeting at the Casino Community Centre

9.00am Thursday June 15th (3rd Thursday of the Month), 2023. All welcome, come and have a cuppa and see what we are about. Enquires Margaret Good 66621746, Jennifer Baker 043892060.

FAIRY HILL CRAFT GROUP

Thursday July 6th, 10 a.m. at Fairy Hill Hall on Summerland Way. Christmas in July lunch. Please bring a plate to share with our friendly group and your current craft project. New and former members always welcome. Please phone Sue 66633233 for more details.

LION’S CLUB CASINO

Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start.

Secretary: Denise Green 0448014682

LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION

Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.

ST MARK’S SINGERS, CASINO

“Love is in the Air” concert on Saturday 24th June @ 1.30pm at the Anglican Hall Barker Street. $10 admission includes afternoon tea with homemade biscuits. All Welcome.

ST MARKS OLD TIME NEW

VOGUE DANCE CLUB

St Marks Anglican church hall Barker Street Casino. Old Time and New Vogue. Revision & Beginners.

Every Tuesday from 3pm-5.30pm @ $5 per head.

First Saturday night of each month from 7pm -10pm @ $10 per person.

Live music Judy Johnson New members, all ages most welcome. Bring a plate to share in a supper. Contact Ronald: 66623328 / mob: 0449 710 552

THE PLATYPUS RSL DAY CLUB operates every Tuesday at the Community Centre from 10am to 2pm. The day consists of gentle exercises, mental stimulation, games and entertainment. Members are asked to pay $7 for their morning tea and lunch. Transport can be provided within the town limits. If you are feeling socially isolated or just need a day out, please contact Robyn on 66623871. New members are welcome.

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon. New members welcome. More info Roz 0427825560

EVANS RIVER RSL DAY CLUB

The Evans River RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Remembrance Room at Club Evans RSL Evans Head from 10am until 2pm Cost $10 includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We have several vacancies for volunteers

and members, anyone who is feeling in need of some company are welcome to attend. Come along and join in the fun. Contact Merilyn on 0401493316.

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP

Meet every Tuesday 9am-12noon in the Recreation Hall (opposite the Kiosk). We invite you to join us for a relaxing morning of crafting, friendship and sharing ideas. Beginners are very welcome. Finishing UFO’s, Embroidery, Gold Work, Hexagons, & Group Projects are just some of the crafts done.

GOONELLABAH

LIFE & RELATIONSHIPS FOR WOMEN- 6 Sessions

Would you like to have closer, more harmonious relationships with others?

This small confdential group is for women who want to move from surviving to thriving in their relationships and lives. Learn new skills, discuss new ideas and have fun.

When: Mondays 22nd May-3rd

July

Time: 9:30am-12:30pm

Where: Child and Family Health Centre, Oliver Ave. Goonellabah. Facilitator: Pamela Craven.

Women’s Health Matters

Cost: FREE Bookings: 66202999

TABLE TENNIS AT GOONELLABAH

Tuesday and Thursday mornings social playing: 9am-12noon; Monday and Wednesday nights social playing: 7-9pm; Training Monday mornings: 9am-12noon; Junior coaching after school Wednesday 3.30pm-4.45pm, $6 a session. Everybody is welcome – all levels. Phone centre on 66251602. Mon-Thurs 9.00am1.00pm

THE PROBUS CLUB of Goonellabah meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Workers Sports Club in Oliver Ave. All welcome. Goonellabah Probus is solely a social club. We have a guest speaker each month and go for outings throughout the year. Meetings on Thursday commence at 10am and fnish at midday. For further information, please contact Gloria Francis on 02 6629 1442.

GRAFTON

GRAFTON AND DISTRICT

GARDEN CLUB

“Connecting people with an interest in gardening, plants, fowers and nature.”

Our next meeting will be on Thursday 6th July at the Joan Muir Centre, 194 Turf St Grafton. 10am to midday.

Entry is $2, please bring morning tea to share if you are able. We will supply coffee, tea etc. There will also be the regular Bring and Buy table so if you have some plants, cuttings or produce you would like to donate, they are greatly appreciated. Anything gardening related. All proceeds go to our Club. Our guest speaker Janeen will be speaking on the topic of native be es.

Publicity Offcer: Jane Rhodes

0438593032

GRAFTON CWA

Meetings of Grafton CWA are held on 2nd Friday of each month in the CWA Rooms, cnr Duke and Pound Sts. Morning tea is at 9.30am, followed by the meeting at 10am. Our next meeting will be on Friday, 9th June, when guest speaker will be Tanya Burman from Home Instead. We will also be hearing our usual reports and information about Cookery, Handicraft.

Cultural topics, international information and news about Agriculture and Environment. Our meetings usually cover a wide variety of different topics and items of interest. New members are always welcome, members who join at this time of year pay a reduced rate until fees are due in October.

Craft mornings are held on 2nd and 4th Mondays at 9.30am-a good opportunity to get together to do some craft, meet other people, have a cuppa and a chat.

Anne McLellan Publicity Offcer

GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Perhaps it’s time to fnd out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the Mighty Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton.

GRAFTON SENIOR CITIZENS

Next trip, Fri,23 June, to mystery venue, some seats available. 8 day tour to Narrabri, Dubbo, Tamworth, from 12 August, still requires more bookings. Soup day, Mon, 19 June, still taking bookings, which close 13 June for catering. Enquiries, Sandra, 6642 7720 or 04 1 7 464 946.”

GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES

Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street. Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors.

We meet at 10.30a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with the exercises commencing at 11.

All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants. Further information can be obtained from Joan or Brian on 6644 7347 or 0416 067 315, or from Dot on 66423248 or 0477 213 017

GRAFTON VIEW CLUB

Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along, enjoy yourself with a tasty meal, a motivated guest speaker & ultimately disadvantaged children will be helped. Please phone Vorna at 66424719 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along to the next meeting to have some fun & help

disadvantaged children. See you there!

CLARENCE RIVER

HISTORICAL SOCIETY

“Schaeffer House Museum at 190 Fitzroy Street, Grafton. Is in full swing for 2023 with visitors starting to arrive by the busload! What do they see? First and last, the pretty gardens with a wide variety of plants, fowers, herbs and sheltering trees for the birds, butterfies, bees, and resident skinks. Inside the cool house they experience time travel as they see how people led their lives on the Clarence over 170 years ago, building for us a rich heritage to value forever! They will also see how to value the knowledge and help given by the original inhabitants on whose land the newcomers settled. It’s a never-ending story in your “Story House” museum. Our vintage clothing collection will soon be stored away to make way for a new display, so pay a visit soon to Your Schaeffer House Museum!

Don’t forget we have nine other great museums in the clarence Valley just waiting for another visit from you! PS: Our resident gnomes can be found somewhere in the garden. Others are tiny and hiding away!!

Museum opening hours are Tues to Thur and Sunday 1pm to 4pm $12 – Family $5 – Adult and $2 – Child.

Research hours are Tues to Thur only from 9am to 3pm. There is a small charge for researching. Our contact number for special openings is 6642 5212”.

Should you wish to discuss this matter further please do not hesitate to contact me on either (02)66425212 or 0406397404.

SCHAEFFER HOUSE

MUSEUM, 190 PRINCE STREET, Grafton, NSW

Many items are being ‘rested’ and replaced with different interesting historical photographs, paintings, and objects. Come to see if you can “spot” the changes! Our museum is constantly changing, just like the lovely garden that surrounds it!

When did you last “drop in?”

All our museums have different collections and are entertaining so check out the opening times for Alumy Creek, Iluka, Yamba, Glenreagh, Maclean, Lawrence and Copmanhurst.

Schaeffer House hours: Tues, Wed, Thur, and Sun 1-4pm Admission

Family of four $12.00 Adults

$5.00 and children $2.00

We have been welcoming many new members lately, if you would like to join our historical society, you too, can receive our quarterly newsletters and receive many benefts in the Research Area.

HASTINGS POINT

HASTINGS POINT COMMUNITY CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome

When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare

Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry

0414 794 380

PROBUS CLUB OF HASTINGS

POINT

The Probus Club of Hastings Point

Tweed Coast meets at 10am on 3rd Tuesday each month, in the residents’ lounge at Hastings Point Tricare. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president 0409872773 for additional information.

KINGSCLIFF

KINGSCLIFF 500 CARD CLUB

Kingscliff 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club

New players WELCOME

Contact: GARY 0499869992

KYOGLE

KYOGLE SUNSHINE CLUB

Meets every Thursday at 9.30am. For more details contact 0499824274.

KYOGLE TIDY TOWNS

FARMERS MARKET

Held every Saturday morning in Stratheden Street from 8am -12. Come along grab some local fruit & veggies, experience all Kyogle has to offer. New Stall Holders welcome. Ph: Anne 66321851

LION’S CLUB OF KYOGLE

Meeting is held on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at the Kyogle Lion’s shed from 6.30–7pm. Contact Neville Moon on 0448222334.

RICHMOND RIVER BEEF

PRODUCER’S ASSOCIATION

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at Kyogle Showgrounds in the luncheon room at 7pm. Ph: Jan on 0427293455.

ROTARY KYOGLE BAZAAR

Fourth Saturday of every month. See Rotary Kyogle Bazaar on social media for all the details or call 0459 512 249.

LENNOX HEAD

LENNOX HEAD CWA

Handy Craft Mornings on Mondays 9.30am-12noon in the community centre at Lennox Head. Call Jan on 66816150.

LENNOX HEAD DAY VIEW CLUB

The Lennox Head Day VIEW Club meets on the frst Monday of each month at the Lennox Head Community Centre with the meeting starting at 11am and includes an interesting speaker and concludes with a light lunch. An informal Coffee and Chat meeting is held on the third Monday of the month. The Club sponsors three students through The Smith Family Learning for Life scholarship program that provides educational items for disadvantaged Australian children. New members and guests are most warmly welcomed, and enquiries may be made to Enid 047187511 or Dawn 0466717435.

LENNOX HEAD EVENING

VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Lennox Hotel at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. Guests are welcome. “VIEW members support the education of

disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged. students.” Lennox Head Evening VIEW Club currently sponsors two Learning for Life students. Ph: Sue Brennan 0409728814.

LENNOX HEAD LIONS CLUB

New members welcome to join our close-knit club where the emphasis is on community service in a fun environment. Meetings are on the frst and Third Wednesday of each month at Club Lennox starting at 6.30pm. Members do what they can, when they can to facilitate the needs of our club.

PROBUS CLUB OF LENNOX HEAD

Meets 9.30 for 10 at Club Lennox, 10 Stewart Street, on the frst Thursday of each month. Visitors are welcome, also retired, or semiretired people wishing to join our non-service club to hear interesting guest speakers and to join in trips and outings are invited along. Ph: June Zentveld on 66871004

LISMORE

LISMORE BASE HOSPITAL

AUXILIARY

Lismore Base Hospital Auxiliary are holding a Christmas in July on 22nd of July at 12 noon at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club 181 High Street Lismore Heights. Tickets are $35.00 a head for a two Course meal.

We will be having games, Raffes, lucky door prizes and a Hundred club. Come along and have a great day out with friends. Contact Carol on 0414847199 for tickets. Money raised goes towards buying vital equipment for Lismore Base Hospital.

LISMORE CITY CONCERT BAND

Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.15-7.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan. Ph: 0432575911

LISMORE CWA

We would like YOU to join us for the opportunity to be involved with a truly friendly group of fun, diverse & interesting women of all ages. You will make new friends who will support you, plus you’ll be part of contributing to the lives of Women and Children in our area through our fundraising endeavours.

PLEASE THINK ABOUT IT!

Why not come along as a ‘guest’ to see how you feel and experience the difference. being a CWA Member could bring to you and your life. We meet on the frst Thursday of each month at 9:30am for a 10am start. FOR MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION call our President Allison Kelly on 0428 216 079. We also run CRAFT meetings each Friday. You’ll learn new things, once again meet new friends, and enjoy

COMMUNITY NOTICES

creating beautiful craft in great company. FOR CRAFT INFORMATION call Vicki Boyle 0437 465 642.

LISMORE HOME GARDEN CLUB

Day Coach trip to Kingscliff area Saturday 17th June.

Next Morning Tea Saturday 24th June at Esther Burn`s Place. More info contact sec 0448294496 dcoles39@ouutlook.com

LISMORE LIBRARY NEW LOCATION IN THE CBD

While the Lismore Library is under repair, you can fnd a PopUp Library at 146 Molesworth Street (Was Williams Shoes), for all your reading, watching and information needs. The library has a fresh collection of donated community books, DVD’s, Puzzles and more, with weekly programs and events. The library is open 7 days a week.

Social Circle – Life with the Vikings

Friday 16 June, 10am – 12pm at Lismore Pop-up Library

Join this fun group on every Friday morning at 10am. This Friday, Join the Lismore Living History Society and discover the lost arts of the Vikings 900AD – 1100AD! Refreshments provided; good times guaranteed! For more information phone Lismore Pop-up Library on 02 6621 2464.

Free Tech Help Lismore Pop-up Library every Tuesday and Thursday by appointment

Our tech team can help you master your phone, tablet, or laptop. Email, Facebook, Apps, Photos… even how to turn the thing on! Make sure to book a one-on-one, 45-minute session, that can be tailored to your individual needs! For more information and to book an appointment phone Lismore Pop-up Library on 02 6621 2464.

Reading for Reconciliation Book Club

Friday 16 June 1.30pm – 2.30pm at Goonellabah Library

Improve your knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues and histories. Start a reconciliation journey through reading and discussing selected texts in a friendly and informal setting with other members of the community. Everyone is welcome. Call Goonellabah Library on 02 6625 1235.

LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY SHED

President: Don Abrahams 0437576837 Vice President: Bob Greig 0404860504

Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 9.00am – 3.00pm

We are a community based non-proft organisation. Everybody is welcome: men, women & people with a disability of all ages. We encourage social inclusion. Our aim is to promote the mental, physical & emotional well-being of people in our community.

Shed Activities

Members work on their own projects, Mentoring is available, General woodworking, Welding & light engineering, Repair & restoration of items for the public Constructing projects, of items for the public Constructing projects for preschools, hospitals & other organisations Assembling

fatpack, Minor maintenance work for the elderly & disabled, working with the disabled, talking with other members or simply having company.

Memberships: $40-year

Attendance Fee: $3 tea/coffee

Location: 15 Industry Drive East Lismore

LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC.

Lismore Orchid Society now meets 3rd Wednesday each month, 1:30pm to 4:00pm at Goonellabah Community Centre in the Goonellabah Public Library, 27 Oliver Ave Goonellabah. Ph: Bev on 0400326289

LISMORE PARKINSONS NSW SUPPORT GROUP

“Parkinsons NSW Lismore Regional Support Group. We meet every third Friday of the month. Next group Meeting is Friday, 16th of June Commences at 10am to 12pm at the South Lismore Bowls Club, 25 Wilson Street South Lismore. New members welcomed. Snacks & cold drinks available. Tea and Coffee with a Gold Coin Donation. Social Networking Coffee and Tea meeting also, Spouse/Careers Group.

Any inquiries contact Marie 0448871290

LISMORE SENIOR CITIZENS

Meet at the Goonellabah

Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome.

LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS

Please join us…... Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat…. Sharing Craft & Ideas. From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds. (off Bruxner Hwy) Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug)

Contac: Kim- 0423935060 Linda- 0419489987

LISMORE TARGET RIFLE

CLUB for .22 calibre rifes, meets Wed nights from 6.30pm & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 1.00 pm. Air rife shooting for .22 & 177 air rifes will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).

CO-DEPENDANTS

ANONYMOUS (CoDA)

Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships.

The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or

COMMUNITY NOTICES

0408336143

EAST LISMORE

BOWLING CLUB

Community Bingo

Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome

EAST LISMORE SOCIAL TENNIS

Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.

MAINLY MUSIC

Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200

NR U3A LISMORE INC. (UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE)

Have you retired or just about to, from the workforce?

Are you looking to exercise your mind and body and keep both well oiled?

Well, Lismore U3A [university of the third age} could be just the place for you. This worldwide organisation has been running in Lismore for the past 30 years and thousands of local people have benefted from its programmes. It’s a great place to meet like-minded people and make new friends.

The last three years have been diffcult for us as they have for everyone, and we are on a recruitment drive to meet and greet you!

We start 2023 with a choice of at least 30 classes, which include, Languages, Photography, Science, History, Qigong, Genealogy, and many others. We also have a social calendar each term.

U3A is entirely run by volunteers, with the committee and tutors coming from our membership. The joining fee Is $50 for 1 year and entitles you to attend any course you

choose throughout the year; you can go every day if you wish. Why not peruse our site to see if there is a course that would be of interest to you. There is an online enrolment form that you can complete and any queries you have can be directed to our secretary, Pat, McLarenSmith Ph. 6622 7408

PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS

Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St.

Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/text Pam on 0418766247 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING

Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a difference in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you! Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at The Civic Hotel (210 Molesworth Street Lismore). Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC

East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.

ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND

SUNRISE

Interested in contributing to community? Local and international?

The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Options Cafe, Main St. Alstonville until further notice. Join us at Options please. Ph: 0435 990 919

SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards.

We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and

welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy and similar subjects.

SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.

Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information. Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Arts Pavillion at Lismore Showgrounds. Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601

THE ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE

The Rotary Club of Lismore – Book Sale

Date Saturday 8th July 2023

Venue – Lismore

Showground – Norma’s Kitchen Pavilion – 8 a.m.

All Books $1.00 and $2.00 – Children’s Books are Free (2 per Child)

Further donations of books are welcome – For pick up please phone Terry 0427 500610

All proceeds support local community projects. For more information phone Terry 0427 500610 or Brian 0429 129573

ZEN AND INSIGHT MEDITATION – LISMORE HEIGHTS INSIGHT (VIPASSANA)

MEDITATION and practice: This mindfulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion. For further details, please contact Rosie - 0402 682 925

ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm-8:15pm. The evening includes instructions, sitting meditation, Dharma talks and individual interviews with the teacher. For further details, please phone: 0427778837

Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed at both groups.

MACLEAN

MACLEAN VIEW CLUB

Monthly meetings the 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purposes.

MURWILLUMBAH

PRINTMAKERS MURWILLUMBAH

Fine art printmakers. Meet at studio space 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding. Prints, gallery, workshops and more! Ph: Peter 0498399640 or Sue 0408493253.

MURWILLUMBAH COMMUNITY GARDEN

Members and visitors are invited to join the group for activities and gardening tips most Sundays. Time 3-5pm, street parking, BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat, and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Ph: Bob Johnson (02)66225792.

POTTSVILLE

POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB

Meets at Black Rocks Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375.

POTTSVILLE LADIES LIFEBALL

Every Thursday morning 9.30am to 11.30am. Pottsville Community Hall, $5 per session includes morning tea. No joining fees. Ph: Jan 0431909760.

TWEED HEADS

Poets and writers on the Tweed meet every Tuesday at the South Tweed Sports Club 1.30-3.30pm. Beginners welcome. Phone 0755248035.

TWEED HEADS PROBUS CLUB

Probus Club, Coolangatta/ Tweed Heads. Be at Club Tweed at 10-00am on the frst Wednesday of the Month. Visitors and new members are very welcome.

RICHMOND-TWEED FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY INC

The Society holds its monthly general meeting on the frst Saturday of every month at Players Theatre, 24 Swift Street, Ballina, from 2pm-4pm and at each meeting we have a presentation of a topic at that meeting we hope you will continue to support us announcing this through your relevant media outlet, I have listed some upcoming meetings:

Saturday 1 July Meeting: A Photograph That Tells a Story. Co-ordinated by Jackie Chalmers.

Saturday 5 August Meeting: AGM plus talks on The Black Sheep in the Family co-ordinated by Joy Conlon

TWEED PATCHWORK GROUP

Meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at South Tweed Community Center from 9-1pm at 18 Heffron Street Tweed

Heads south all beginners welcome phone Moira on 0418686643. A friendly group of people with common interest in seeing, quilting and related craft.

TWIN TOWNS & DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB

Twin Towns and District Garden Club meets every second Monday of the month. December is awards and presentations. Our next meeting is Monday 12th June 2023. Time: Meeting starts 10 am. Doors open 8.30 am NSW time.

Meetings Venue: Tweed Heads Civic Centre Auditorium next to Library, Brett Street, Tweed Heads.

Guest Speaker: June: Chantrell Fogan, . . .Foraging . . .”The Forager’s Plate”

We offer raffes, lucky door prize, presidents award, trading tables, cuttings table, members prize draw, Benching of plants and fowers and foral art both novice and senior. Begonia Society, Social Morning teas, bus trips and best of all Friendship. Come along, bring a mug to share a coffee or tea with like-minded gardeners. See you there, don’t forget to bring a mug.

Gwen: 0468872199

WOLLONGBAR

WOLLONGBAR PROBUS CLUB

Meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Alstonville Plateau Bowls and Sports Club, 10-14 Deegan Drive Alstonville, at 10.00am. The next meeting will be on Thursday 15th June, our guest speakers will be Peter and Barbara Swain talking about recent travels. Visitors are welcome. Contact Keith on 66280393.

YAMBA

YAMBA DAY VIEW CLUB

Yamba Day View Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Yamba Bowling Club on 3rd Monday of month, starting 10am for 10.30am.

Acceptance and apologies to President Lyn 66463164 by Friday prior to luncheon for catering purposes. We hold a monthly social outing either for lunch or morning tea and visitors are always welcome.

YAMBA LIONS CLUB

Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.

ALL NORTHERN RIVERS

NRCF WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE

The Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRFC) is inviting Northern Rivers women to play an active role in empowering vulnerable women and girls in our region. The newly formed NRFC’s Women’s Giving Circle brings Northern Rivers women together to achieve equality and human rights for women and girls in our region and enable them to realise their full potential.

Ph: 0499862886

The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE HARRIERS is a non-proft community group that is part of a worldwide organisation. The Hash House Harriers meet every Monday at 6pm for a run/walk from various locations around Lismore, Alstonville and Ballina. The run/walk lasts for approximately an hour, followed by friendship, banter and grub. We are very friendly and welcome new members.

NORTHERN RIVERS PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

Covering Wollongbar to Ocean Shores.

Meets 2nd Friday of each month at Summerland Farm, Wardell Road, Alstonville. A general catch up & chat with the opportunity to join in a casual Q&A session with Rebecca, our Parkinson’s nurse. She will be there to answer any questions that you may have about anything to do with living with Parkinson’s or supporting or caring for a loved one. Maybe you want to know about symptoms, medication, treatments or services etc.

Rebecca is there to support us and help you manage your disease so that you live your best life. All those living with Parkinson’s Disease or those supporting them are most welcome. Please RSVP Cheryl 0428286753.

Warnings

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

The chance of morning fog. Sunny day. Light winds becoming westerly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Sunny. Patches of morning frost in the south. Light winds.

Northern Tablelands District:

The chance of morning fog. Mostly sunny day. Patches of morning frost in the south. Winds west to northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h tending west to southwesterly 25 to 35 km/h during the day.

Thursday. Mostly sunny. The chance of morning fog in the south. Areas of morning frost. Winds west to southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h becoming light during the evening.

New South Wales:

A few gusty showers about the ranges and southern slopes, most likely about the Alpine and elevated ranges. Showers falling as snow above 1100 metres in the southern ranges, possibly reaching high peak of the Central Tablelands during the morning and early afternoon above 1200 metres. Mostly sunny elsewhere. Fresh and gusty westerly winds. Thursday. A few showers across the southern ranges and slopes, falling as snow above 1300 metres. Areas of morning fog and frost about the ranges and western slopes. Mostly sunny otherwise. West to southwesterly winds, fresh at times near parts of the coast.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Northwesterly 15 to 20 knots turning west to southwesterly during the morning. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Swell: Southerly below 1 metre.

Weather: The chance of a storm in the morning. Sunny afternoon.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: Northwesterly 15 to 20 knots turning west to southwesterly during the morning. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Swell: Southerly below 1 metre.

Weather: The chance of a storm in the morning. Sunny afternoon.

Gold Coast Waters:

Winds: West to northwesterly about 10 knots tending southwesterly 10 to 15 knots during the evening. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Northeasterly around 1 metre. Weather: Sunny.

Back to back win for Ballina Bowler Blake Walsh

Blake comes with a distinctive bowling pedigree – his mother, father and uncle have all

under the auspices of the Commonwealth Games NSW Athlete Grant Program. “These

and the Commonwealth Games Federation and while not currently part of the program

• Back to back 2021 & 2022 champion and this year’s runner-up of Queensland Junior

• Recipient of 2023 Commonwealth Games NSW Division Award (Certifcate attached)

• 2023 champion of 2023 Sydney Junior Cup held at Tenpin City Bowl mid-May

• Recently chosen as part of team (4 male and 4 female) for 21st Asian Youth Championships in Bangkok – 4-12 July (abf-online.org/results/ ayc2023.htm)

Tenpin Bowling Australia (TBA) is thrilled to announce the offcial selection of the team that will proudly represent Australia at the 21st Asian Youth Championships in Bangkok, Thailand.

in the 21st Asian Youth Tenpin Bowling Championships.

The following bowlers have been selected to represent Australia:

Female Team

• Ellieh Bowman

• Hannah Clark

• Samantha Clifton

• Emily Hart

Male Team

• Ryan Chi

• Luke Doyle

• Jordan Harrold

• Blake Walsh

Offcials

• Head Coach – Geoff Bowness

• Assistant Coach –Peter Finitsis

• Team Manager –Roselee Oakley

Player Profile Blake Walsh

Posted on 25th August 2022 0

successfully represented Australia. He won the Australian Junior Restricted Masters in 2015 at the age of nine and continues to post impressive results in Open events that transcend his age. His selection as part of the Australian Youth Team, although still a Junior (under 18 yo) competitor in the sport, is further evidence of his outstanding achievements.

40 young athletes have demonstrated tremendous ability in their respective sport pathways,” CGNSW CEO Peter Tate said when announcing the awards. “I have no doubt many will be chosen to represent Australia in future Commonwealth Games.”

for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games in Victoria in 2026 it aims to be added to this and included in future Commonwealth Games programs.)

PLAYER INTRO:

Cup, held at Coolangatta Tweed Tenpin Bowl in May

The 21st Asian Youth Championship has an age criterion that bowlers only born on or after January 1, 2003, are eligible to participate

Tenpin Bowling Australia invites everyone to join us in congratulating the chosen team members and we have no doubt you will excel in representing Australia on the international stage.

Also recently, Blake was one of a group of young athletes from 20 sports honoured

(Tenpin Bowling was included on the program of the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur and the Commonwealth Youth Games in Bendigo in 2004. The sport is recognised by the AOC

Date of Birth: Dec 4, 2005

I’m attaching a brief profle with further details of Blake’s impressive career that might also be useful. Please don’t hesitate to call me if you’d like further details about the sport of tenpin bowling or the hero Blake refers to in this profle, Australian pro bowling superstar, Jason Belmonte.

The 17-year-old bowls with two hands and has quickly established himself as one of the most talented bowlers in the country, after he finished runner-up at an open division event – the 2021 Kegel QLD Open. Walsh comes from bowling family pedigree, with his mum, dad, and uncle having all successfully represented Australia.

Resides (include city and state): West Ballina, New South Wales

Home centre: Ballina Tenpin Bowl

Ballina Mahjong 9th

June, 202

championship round, with the results being:

Bowling style: Right hand, two-hand

Wendy Thornton 2. Jan Small 3. Shirley Atkinson

T. Maxwell def C. Doyle

Very close game with the winners winning by 2 shots.

The other game was I.

Cherry 2nd.

Open Handicap Doubles :

Andrew Mangan & James

Bate Alstonville 1st.

Doubles Club Champions

Joan Doust & Christine Edlund.

def Rocco, S Gregory 12

M MOrrissey, N Harding 21 def T Alcorn, J Olley 14

4. Val Heinritz 5. June Greenaway 6. Lesley

Ritchie 7. Janene Jarvis

8. Sally Lowry 9. Pauline

Bolte 10. Susan Allan

11. Vanessa Reynolds

12. Pauline Kearney 13. Kathy Pickles 14. Ronda

Taylor 15. Bev Lasater

16. Barbara Ellan 17. Pam

Farrell 18. Joy Lowien 19. Shirley Coleman 20. Lisa

Wong 21. Ann Hewitt 22. Shirley Henry 23. Jeanette Henwood, Jenny Lang 25.

Yvonne Weddup 26. Linda

Lovett 27. Cindy Smith 28. Deborah Green 29. Susan

Scott 30. Jan Henley

Casino RSM Bowls results

On Wednesday 7th June

2023 there were two more games played for the Minor Consistency club

Watson def J. Creighton

TITLES WON:

Good luck to the winners in their next round.

There were 2 social games & the winners for the day were:

V. Cole & H. Lavelle def

L. James & D. Skinner.

Winners of the other social game were:

N. Moran & C. Haynes def D. Grice & M. Hellyar winning their game by 1 shot.

Casino Social Golf Results

11-06-2023

The winner on Sunday was Ray Ruttley with a stableford score of 21 points on a countback from Dave Roberts also 21. The putting trophy went to Vinny with 15 putts

and R.Horseman won the players draw.Nearest to pins:2nd, T.Jenkins.3rd, 6th & 8th, R.Ruttley. 4th, T.Hook. 5th, D.Roberts.7th, Vinny.17th, B.Yates.!8th G.Shephard. Next Sunday’s event sponsored by Potubi Transport Casino Pty. Ltd. is yet to be decided but visitors are welcome to play with hit off from 6-30am till 7-30am.

CHERRY STREET

CROQUET CLUB

SPORTS RESULTS

Tournaments :

Northern Rivers Golf Croquet Tournament.

Novice :

Gerd Medlich Byron Bay

1st.

Yvonne Doyle Casino 2nd. OBE. Over Eightys

Handicap Doubles :

Jean Hill & Richard Edwards Ballina 1st.

Joan Doust & Norma Watts

Richard Hughes & Margaret Mitchell Ballina

2nd.

Advantage Singles :

Dennise Simmons Byron

Bay 1st

Werner Borkhardt Byron

Bay 2nd

Open Level Singles :

David Scott Cherry Street 1st.

Werner Borkhardt Byron

Bay 2nd.

Crusader Cup Open

Doubles : Mike Gidding & Sharon

Daley Ballina 1st

Dhillon Tiffn & Werner

Borkhardt Byron 2nd

QLD Womens Eight Golf

Croquet :

M. McMahon 1, G.Spencer 2, J.Molyneux 3, J.Wall 4, M.Stuart 5, P.Peterson 6, G.Sloane 7, R.Newsham 8

Open Handicap Ricochet

Runners Up Helen Young & Robyn Poynting.

R Parkes, N Scandrett 24 def H Naisby, T Cheli 17

S Clarke, A Phillips 20 def J Houghton, B Adams 18

J Burbidge, B Forrester 21 def L Griffn, B Griffn 20

EVANS HEAD WOMENS BOWLS

Ladies Social Day - 3105-23 - Highest Score

East Lismore Bowls Club results

B Grade Pairs

Championship fnal

M Harding, D Sirach 17 def

A Maslen, L Maslen 15

Social Bowls Results

R McGuiness, G Pollard 19

drew S Wade, G Painter 19

B Lee, G Donnelly, J Cooke

29 def B Harmon, J Carrall,

J Essex 12

G Finnigan, G Stewart 23

- Winners - J. Beckett, L. Vidler, L. Stratton, S. Downs. 07-06-23 - Win & Ends - 3 Bowl TriplesWinners - B. Cameron, G. Marczan/P. Freeman, N. Collinson.

Major Singles Championship - First Round - 07-06-23 - K. Hickey defeated J. Fernance, T. Cselka defeated B. Montague. 2nd Round will be played on 14-06-23.

Rebels and Ghosts in packed top four

By Tim Howard

After six rounds of the Group 2 frst grade rugby league competition, the two Grafton teams fnd themselves in the top 4 of a highly congested competition ladder.

Three teams, Nambucca Heads,

would hit hardest was the departure of young halfback Jordan Gallagher. He dominated the second half of last season with an all round running and kicking game that kept opponents guessing.

But Gordon has sprung another teen halfback on

own and winger Jamal Laurie has improved with every outing.

In the pack teenage backrower Nicholas Torrens has been a stand out.

When skipper and lock Grant Stevens broke his hand against the Ghosts, Torrens found himself

The Grafton Ghosts main challenge this season has been getting the same team on the paddock week in, week out.

New coach Adam Slater has been forced to come up with new combinations in the backs and forwards each

not been disgraced. The club picked up a number of players when last season’s beaten grand fnalist Orara disbanded. Scores from their games so far show they have no trouble racking up points against the best teams and they broke their duck last round with a win 34-18 win over Sawtell.

The Ghosts Bellingen game kicks off at 1pm

as Bello doesn’t have an under-18 or reserve grade teams.

On Sunday the Rebels are away to Sawtell, which could be tough one for them.

While unlikely to challenge for the semi-fnals, the Panthers pride themselves on their nuisance value and have the Woolgoolga scalp on their belt already this season.

South Grafton and Coffs Harbour are on eight points and Grafton Ghosts are a point behind on seven.

Both the Rebels and Ghosts have faced signifcant challenges this season.

The defending premiers South Grafton found themselves gutted of almost half their grand fnal side during the off season.

Coach Ron Gordon dug deep into the junior ranks and has unearthed four players who have helped the club rebuild to the point where they have a realistic chance of defending their title.

The loss most thought

the competition, 17-yearold Keaton Stutt, who brings a different, but no less valuable skill set to the team.

The wiry half has learned to get early ball to his playmaking fveeighth Hughie Stanley and loves to back up.

He has a good kicking game, which will develop, but it is his defensive play that stands him apart.

Stutt is everywhere in defence, bringing down big forwards, chasing kicks downfeld and covering behind the line.

Out wide Jye Boehme, with three tries under his belt already, looks to be making the 4 jumper his

handed a big pair of boots to fll.

He has disappointed no-one. The youngster has beneftted from watching a master at work and his classical front-on hits have the Stumpy Stevens tag all over them.

The competition table reveals some numbers that would please the coach, but surprise Rebels fans.

South Grafton is the only team to have conceded fewer than 100 points so far this season. For a team that has relied more on scoring points than stopping them, it is a good sign for the rest of the season.

week, but has kept the team competitive.

The for and against tallies tell the story with the Ghosts the only team in negative territory.

Their big plus has been the brilliant form of their try scoring wizard Dylan Collett who leads the Group tally with eight so far.

And Ghosts fans would tell you the big centre has probably saved eight tries at least with his robust tackling.

The Ghosts lead off this weekend, taking on the dangerous Bellingen outft at Frank McGuren Field on Saturday.

The Magpies while last on the table have

Group 2 leading try scorer Grafton Ghost centre Dylan Collett has his eyes on the tryline against Woolgoolga earlier this year.

The Rebels defence has worked overtime so far this season. They are the only team to have conceded under 100 points so far.