The Northern Rivers Times News ED266

$84m Clarence water fltration plan sparks funding and approval concerns

Tim Howard

Clarence Valley Council’s plan to build an $84 million water fltration plant has sparked questions from both councillors and residents about whether the project has been formally approved — and how it will be paid for.

The proposal frst appeared in the council’s latest Clarence Valley Magazine as “announced”, surprising some councillors who say the decision has not been debated or endorsed at a council meeting.

A quote from page 12 of the Magazine confrms the treatment plant is appearing to go ahead prior to a council resolution.

“Design and construction of an $84 million water fltration plant will take place over the next three years, to meet strict new drinking water guidelines,” it reads.

While some residents have long campaigned for water fltration to improve drinking water quality, others fear the council is overextending its fnances following major commitments to the Clarence Regional Aquatic Centre, the North Grafton Sewage Treatment Plant Upgrade and the Yamba and Maclean community centre project. If government grants cannot be secured, ratepayers could face a 7 per cent increase in water and sewerage charges

on their rates bills plus infation — compounded annually over the next four years.

One local resident, in a detailed Facebook post, criticised what they called years of inaction by council despite knowing fltration would be needed.

They cited council’s own May 2020 Drinking Water Management System (DWMS), which reduced the permissible turbidity level for extraction to 3.5 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units).

“Turbidity is much more

than clear water,” the post said. “When it climbs above 1 NTU, it interferes with chlorine, chemicals and UV lights ability to kill bugs that could make local people seriously sick.”

The resident’s post pointed to council documents showing that: Before the early 1990s, water was extracted regardless of turbidity.

In the early 1990s, “selective extraction” was introduced with a limit of 10 NTU.

In 2014, the DWMS cut

the limit to 5 NTU.

In 2020, the limit was reduced to 3.5 NTU — a threshold council itself recognised would be “unlikely to be met in the future without fltration”.

The post accused past and current councillors of delaying action for three years while investigating options, missing out on earlier State Government funding that could have covered a third of the cost.

Former Mayor Ian Tiley has previously said the new NSW Government fltration support scheme could provide some assistance, but the post claimed the program is only available to councils assessed at risk Level 5 water, while Clarence Valley is at Level 4 — meaning no eligibility.

The fltration proposal will likely become a fashpoint in the coming months as councillors weigh public health needs against budget constraints and potential rate rises.

Bullying No Way Week: Parents key to stopping bullying before it starts

With one in four Australian school-aged kids experiencing bullying, the upcoming Bullying No Way: National Week of Action (11–15 August) comes at a critical time, according to global parenting advocates Triple P − Positive Parenting Program.

Carol Markie-Dadds, Triple P International Country Director, revealed that, according to a recent Triple P survey of parents, bullying and online safety have become one of the

top parental challenges in the last two years, tripling in prevalence.

“Childhood bullying is worsening. The ongoing news headlines and more than 1,600 submissions to the Australian Government’s AntiBullying Rapid Review are evidence of bullying’s pervasive and devastating long-term impacts on children, families, and communities,” she said.

“Bullying can seriously impact a child’s mental health and wellbeing

throughout their school years and well into adulthood.” Ms MarkieDadds says. “The mental health implications are signifcant, with rising concerns about children's emotional resilience and social development.”

“The solution lies in empowering parents and carers, who remain the most infuential fgures in a child's life, to confdently support their child if they’re experiencing bullying.”

“By building positive school-family partnerships and having access to free, proven to work parenting support like Triple P, families can learn to recognise and address bullying behaviours while helping children develop confdence and resilience,” she said.

Families can do these three things to stop bullying in its tracks

Build confdence and resilience to ‘be bold’: Building confdence starts with reinforcing selfesteem through hobbies and activities children enjoy. Resilience comes

when kids face challenging situations and bounce back from setbacks. Remind them that they are loved and valued, no matter what.

‘Be kind’ to beat bullying: Parents and carers can demonstrate what empathy and social skills look like in everyday activities. Children develop empathy over time and at their own pace. Encouraging children to consider others' feelings, practice turn-taking, and include peers in activities helps create a kindness culture at home, school, and in virtual spaces.

Create a safe space to ‘speak up’: Regular check-ins with kids create a safe space for open communication. Ask open-ended questions like, 'What was the best part of your day?' and 'Was there anything that upset you or could have gone better?' to encourage honest communication with your child. Let kids know it's okay to feel scared or worried, and that they won't get in trouble for coming to you, even if they've broken some family rules. Reinforce that it’s always better to

ask for help than to worry alone.

“The National Week of Action’s theme is ‘Be Bold. Be Kind. Speak Up’, which reminds us that stopping bullying isn't just about responding to incidents – it's about proactively building a culture as a community where kindness thrives and every child feels safe, valued, and empowered to speak out,” Ms MarkieDadds said.

“For families who have bullying concerns, the available support networks include school staf, GPs, psychologists, and school counsellors as well as eSafety Commissioner (www.esafety.gov.au) and Kids Helpline (www. kidshelpline.com.au),” she said.

Delivery of the Triple P –Positive Parenting Program to parents and carers of children in Australia is supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care under the Parenting Education and Support Program. Parents and carers can access free, online parenting support 24/7 at triplep-parenting. net.au

Photo supplied

“Nobody Knows” – urging Australians to plan for life’s final chapter

Jef Gibbs

Advance Care Planning

Australia (ACPA) is encouraging Australians to take part in Dying to Know Day on Friday 8 August by having open, honest conversations about future health care and end-of-life wishes — before it’s too late.

Now in its twelfth year, the national campaign — powered by Proveda — aims to break the stigma around death, dying, and grief. This year’s theme, “Nobody Knows”, highlights the distress families and health professionals face when someone’s values and preferences are left unspoken or undocumented.

Despite death being inevitable, most Australians are unprepared. ACPA research reveals:

l Fewer than one in ten have completed an Advance Care Directive.

l Only one in eight have appointed a substitute decision-maker.

l Seven in ten have never had a simple conversation with loved ones about their care preferences.

“We’ll spend hours planning a holiday, but won’t spare fve minutes to talk about our fnal wishes,” said Dr Catherine Joyce, National Manager of ACPA. “This isn’t about doom and gloom — it’s about taking control of your fnal story.”

To make advance care planning easier, ACPA ofers free tools and resources for individuals, families, carers, and health professionals, including conversation starters, online learning, translated materials, and support through the National Advance Care Planning Advisory Line

This Dying to Know Day, the message is clear — start the conversation,

document your choices, and share them with those who matter most. For free advice or to request a starter pack, visit advancecareplanning. org.au or call 1300 208

582 (Monday–Friday, 8am–4pm AEST).

Advance Care Planning Australia is an Australian Government initiative delivered by Metro South Health, Brisbane.

NSW launches review to modernise apprenticeships and traineeships

Robert Heyward

The Minns Labor Government has launched a comprehensive review of the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Act 2001 to help rebuild the skills workforce and ensure New South Wales has the construction workers needed to deliver more homes.

The review builds on the Government’s record $3.4 billion investment in skills and TAFE in the 2025–26 Budget — the largest in the state’s history — aimed at creating a modern, inclusive, and responsive training system.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education

Steve Whan said the review would focus on making the system easier to navigate, more fexible, and better aligned to the needs of priority industries such as construction, care and support, technology, and clean energy.

The process begins with a statewide Have Your Say survey, inviting apprentices, trainees, employers, and

training providers to share their experiences and help shape reforms. The review will also include a series of roundtables with employers, unions, training providers, and apprentices across NSW in the coming months.

“We’re rebuilding the skills system so it delivers for NSW — not just now, but for the long term,” Mr Whan said. “We want a system that refects today’s economy and helps more people get the skills they need for good jobs, especially in the regions and in industries crying out for workers.”

A key priority is improving completion rates, particularly for young people in regional NSW, and supporting more apprentices and trainees to transition into long-term, rewarding careers.

The review is a central commitment of the NSW Skills Plan and aims to ensure the state’s workforce is ready to meet future challenges.

For more information or to take part in the survey, visit: nsw.gov.au.

“He was not just a legend in football, he was a legend in life.”

Final words from Cheryl, “John Mayes never needed a spotlight, he just needed a gap in the

By Samantha Elley

It would be fair to say that a good chunk of the Evans Head population turned out to farewell one of their beloved sons – John Mayes.

Despite the weather and an angry pair of plovers, easily more than 100 people gathered at the Evans Head cemetery to honour the man who played and won three grand fnal premierships with Manly and Eastern Suburbs and represented the Australia Rugby League team overseas.

Son-in-law Neil spoke of how John was a true champion of his family and his community.

John’s grandchildren gave ftting reminiscences of how he was always

there to have a talk or a joke and how he will be missed at their future family gatherings.

Grandson Milo said his grandad inspired him to play football and in him saw an inspiration, a hero and so full of life.

Michael Mayes, John’s brother said they lost their father when very young and John stepped up to leave school at the tender age of 14 to work and help his mother pay their bills. It was a mark of the man he was to become.

Football mates, Tony Moses and Tom Coleman shared many light-hearted stories of John’s antics including a run in with police that saw them getting photos with him, rather than fne him for speeding and a

Lismore CBD occupancy climbs to 81%, signalling renewed confidence

Jef Gibbs

Lismore’s central business district is showing continued signs of recovery, with an 81% occupancy rate recorded across audited premises in June 2025 — a threepoint rise from December 2024. The results come from Lismore City Council’s twice-yearly CBD Audit, which measures business activity by tracking shopfront and upper-level

occupancy across the city’s key commercial streets.

Mayor Steve Krieg said the improvement refected growing optimism.

“This increase is great news as Lismore continues to rebuild. It shows the confdence our local businesses have in Lismore’s future as they invest in the CBD and create local jobs,” he said.

Cr Krieg said the strong occupancy was

the result of a collective efort from businesses, event organisers, creative industries, sporting groups, and major infrastructure projects.

While individual streets saw mixed results, most recorded growth compared to late 2024:

l Keen Street: 88% (up 3%)

l Magellan Street: 82% (up 7%)

l Conway Street: 67% (no change)

l Carrington Street:

82% (up 4%)

l Molesworth Street: 83% (down 3%)

l Woodlark Street: 70% (up 10%)

The June survey marks the sixth CBD Audit since the 2022 natural disaster, continuing a gradual upward trend in occupancy. Council staf have conducted the audits annually since 2017, focusing on central portions of Keen, Molesworth, Woodlark, Conway, Magellan and

food run with football legend, Arthur Beetson, that saw John breaking into a kitchen through a servery window, being the smallest member of the football team, to get a feed.

Family member, Cheryl McCarthy, spoke of how, when John and wife Margaret owned the Evans Head newsagency a young lad got caught shoplifting. When he tried to run away from John, the young lad had no idea that he had an Australian representative and premiership-winning halfback, possibly the fttest man in Evans Head at the time, on his tail.

Consequently, the young lad was caught, the goods retrieved and paid for and hopefully a lesson well learnt.

Reverend Paul McKendrick, who had been the local minister for much of John’s time living in Evans Head, had been asked by the family to do the service and he spoke of his memories of John and what a likeable, chatty man he was. John was a life member of the Eastern Suburbs Rugby League Club, the Evans Head Golden Oldies and the Evans Head Touch Football team.

“He was not just a legend in football, he was a legend in life,” said Tony Coleman.

Final words from Cheryl, “John Mayes never needed a spotlight, he just needed a gap in the defence.”

in total premises — due to

Carrington Streets. Council noted that changes

building amalgamations or subdivisions — can slightly alter baseline data.

Encouraging signs of growth for Lismore over last six months.

defence.”

John Mayes' fnal lap of honour

Why women go missing in history

And other lessons we might forget

Comment By Tim Howard

Last week I wrote that great writers and thinkers like George Orwell and William Wordsworth can still help us make sense of our increasingly complicated world.

But when a women friend reminded that a big part of the story was missing — or perhaps hidden, I realised it was time for a deeper dive.

It’s a familiar pattern: the women beside those great names who shaped, refned, and even co-created their work, reduced to footnotes.

Dorothy Wordsworth’s vivid diaries provided images, phrases and entire passages that her brother turned into poems.

Orwell’s wife, Eileen O’Shaughnessy, not only edited his prose but sharpened his ideas — her infuence is felt in the change of tone and precision in his writing after their marriage.

These are not marginal contributions; they are acts of creation. Yet, for generations, the habit of diminishing women’s work has been so ingrained in our culture that it often goes unnoticed.

So why does this keep happening?

In part, it’s cultural inertia. For centuries, the public sphere — publishing houses, universities, scientifc bodies — was built by and for men.

When women entered those spaces, their work was often reframed as “support” rather than

leadership, no matter how integral it was.

The pattern is reinforced by our collective storytelling, which prefers lone geniuses to collaborative realities.

The habit runs deep.

Grafton’s own Ruby Payne-Scott is a prime example.

She was a true scientifc pioneer — they had to invent a term for what she did: radio astronomy.

She helped lay the foundations for a feld that now maps the universe, yet for decades her role was barely acknowledged, partly because she was a woman working in an overwhelmingly male domain.

She retired early after the CSIRO enforced a marriage bar for women, forcing her out. Her brilliance wasn’t in another city, or some far-of country or time. It was here and in our life times.

Understandably there is a certain delight among some that women now dominate felds once closed to them.

You can hear the schadenfreude in conversations and comment pieces: after centuries of exclusion, the shoe is fnally on the other foot.

But for men now discovering the sting of being sidelined — as some lament the shrinking audience for “male fction” — perhaps a moment of self-awareness is in order.

This is a mirror moment, a chance to recognise what exclusion feels like, and to think about how we

Dorothy Wordsworth

William’s sister Dorothy was not merely a muse but a writer whose keen observational diaries contained descriptions and phrasings that appear almost verbatim in some of his most famous poems. Her works reveal a writer with her own lyrical skill — though during her lifetime she never sought publication. Historians now see her as an essential voice of the Romantic era.

want our cultural life to be shaped.

If we see art, science, and literature as richer when more voices are heard, then that principle has to apply even when it is our own voice struggling to fnd an audience.

The truth is, we humans seem prone to cycles of overcorrection. We move from exclusion in one direction to exclusion in another, rarely holding the centre for long. Which raises a question: do we ever truly learn our lesson, or do we just trade one form of blindness for another?

Fifty or a hundred years from now, will our descendants look back and wonder what glaring injustice we managed to ignore?

Perhaps it will be the question of rights for artifcial intelligence. That might sound fanciful, but philosophers like Yuval Noah Harari and Stephen Fry have already begun discussing it in public forums.

If an AI develops consciousness — however we defne it — will it have the right to self-

Eileen O’Shaughnessy Blair Married to George Orwell (aka Eric Blair) from 1936 until her death in 1945, Eileen was a poet, editor, and sharp critic. She infuenced the tone, clarity, and political precision of Orwell’s work, especially in the late 1930s and early 1940s. Her organisational skills and income supported his writing; her editorial eye refned it.

determination? To freedom from exploitation?

It’s not such a long bow when you consider that similar questions were once asked about women, children, Indigenous peoples, and enslaved people — always with the comfortable certainty that the excluded group was “diferent.”

The point is not to wallow

Ruby Payne-Scott Born in Grafton in 1912, Payne-Scott was a physicist who became one of the founders of radio astronomy. Her wartime radar research evolved into groundbreaking observations of the sun using radio waves. Forced to leave her post after marrying — due to discriminatory employment policies — she remained largely unrecognised for decades. Today she is celebrated as one of Australia’s greatest scientists.

in past mistakes. It’s to stay alert to the ways we can miss what’s right in front of us — whether that’s a sister keeping a household afoat so her brother can write poetry, a wife sharpening political essays, a local scientist mapping the cosmos, or even, one day, a non-human intelligence asking to be heard.

If Wordsworth could

AI Rights – Not So FarFetched In a recent public conversation, Yuval Noah Harari and Stephen Fry discussed whether advanced AI should one day be granted rights. The argument is not about today’s algorithms but about the possibility of conscious AI. If that threshold is reached, denying rights could echo past moral blind spots — from slavery to gender inequality — that we now see as obvious wrongs.

inspire a battle-hardened former teacher of mine to weep while reading, his ideas still have force.

If Orwell could see through the lies of his own age, he could surely help us see the blind spots of ours. But they — and we — would have been even better if we listened more closely to the voices we’ve too often ignored.

Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital ofcially opens in Wollongbar

Business, Recovery, and the North Coast.

The Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital (NRWH) has ofcially opened its doors, marking a major milestone for native animal care in the region. The ribboncutting ceremony, held on Monday 28 July 2025, was led by The Hon. Janelle Safn MP, Member for Lismore and Minister for Small

A heartfelt Welcome to Country by Ricky Cook set the tone for a celebration of community spirit, resilience, and shared purpose. Guests included wildlife carers, volunteers, veterinary professionals, local supporters, and government representatives — all of whom played a role in

making the hospital a reality.

Speakers refected on the long journey to completion, including Madeleine Faught, Dr Megan Kearney, Dr Robert Kooyman, and Treasurer Ninian Gemmell

“The pain of the challenges, the delays, the weather, COVID, are now behind us… We’re already working with a lot of

Cheaper Home Batteries Program Launches July 1, 2025

This new initiative from the Australian Government ofers a gamechanging opportunity for households, small businesses, and community groups to cut energy costs, boost energy independence, and take advantage of major rebates.

Key Highlights:

• Big Discounts: Get a reduction on eligible battery installations from July 1, covering a large percentage of total costs.

• Stackable Incentives: Combine this rebate with NSW’s existing Battery Incentive (BESS 2), which will continue beyond July 1 and is set to double. You’ll receive six years’ worth of VPP incentives, and SAE-installed batteries are eligible.

• Battery Requirements: Applies to VPP- ready battery systems.

• Limited-Time Savings: Subsidy amounts will decrease annually until 2030, so acting early ensures maximum value.

Why Act Now?

With demand expected to spike, securing your system early means avoiding long wait times and potential price increases. You’ll also lock in the current incentives and ensure full eligibility.

How SAE Group Makes It Easy

• Stress-Free Process: Our team manages everything, from quote to installation.

• Paperwork Done for You: We handle all rebate applications and compliance.

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animals, so there is a lot to be happy for,” Ms Faught said.

Minister Safn praised the hospital’s grassroots origins:

“It’s 100% communityowned, community-driven, and community-run… A lot of good things happen when like-minded people come together to meet a need — and that’s what happened here.”

Dr Megan Kearney

emphasised the importance of rapid treatment, noting that animals assessed within 24 hours of rescue have far better survival outcomes. NRWH General Manager Bronte Potts called the opening “a dream come true” and a “game-changer” for the region.

Since its soft launch earlier in 2025, the Wollongbar facility has already treated over

360 sick, injured, and orphaned native animals With Stage One complete, Stage Two plans include a dedicated pathology and diagnostics laboratory and new outdoor enclosures for animals in intermediate care and rehabilitation. The NRWH now stands as a vital resource for wildlife conservation and emergency response across the Northern Rivers and beyond.

Contact SAE Group today for your free, no-obligation energy assessment and secure your battery system before the rush!

Electricial Licences: QLD 72258, NSW 227562C

Janelle Safn MP.

NRWH Vet Team.

NRWH Vet Team. Photos by Kurt Petersen

Jef Gibbs

Banking for People and Community: A Merger That Refects

Northern Rivers' values

At a time when the big banks can feel out of touch with the communities they serve, the proposed merger between Summerland Bank and Regional Australia Bank ofers a refreshing alternative — one built on mutual ownership, ethical practices, and a deep commitment to regional sustainability.

This merger would ensure the bank remains 100% customerowned, with no external shareholders and no compromise on values. It’s a model that puts people before proft and prioritises long-term wellbeing over shortterm gain.

For locals across the Northern Rivers, this is more than a banking update — it’s an opportunity to strengthen values-driven fnancial services. Both banks are proudly customer-owned, and Summerland Bank will remain B Corp certifed, maintaining a strong focus on social and environmental responsibility. This merger is about amplifying that impact, not diluting it.

If approved, the merger would see Summerland Bank join forces with Regional Australia Bank to create a stronger, more resilient

organisation — better equipped to serve regional communities. Customers would continue to bank with the same friendly team at their local branch, while gaining access to a wider network of 49 branches across regional NSW, as well as more lending specialists and digital tools to support personal and community goals.

What makes this proposal signifcant is the shared commitment to sustainability and community investment. With increased resources, the merged bank could expand its support for local initiatives, sponsorships, and environmental programs — helping to fund the kinds of projects that matter most to our region.

This is a pivotal moment for Summerland Bank customers. Your vote will help shape the future of banking in regional Australia.

To help locals better understand what’s proposed, Summerland Bank is hosting a series of community information evenings. All are welcome to attend and ask questions about what this merger could mean for our region.

To learn more visit: www. summerland.com.au/merger-plans.

Craig Foster Grandstand Unveiled at Lismore Regional Sports Precinct

Robert Heyward

Lismore’s sporting heritage has gained another lasting tribute with the ofcial naming of the third and fnal grandstand at Oakes Oval after one of the city’s most respected sporting sons, Craig Foster AM

The Craig Foster Grandstand, part of the $12.4 million Lismore Regional Sports Precinct redevelopment, honours Foster’s exceptional football career and his ongoing legacy as a civic leader and advocate for sport.

The naming ceremony took place just before kick-of in a pre-season A-League clash between the Newcastle Jets and Brisbane Roar, drawing a packed crowd to Oakes Oval.

From Kadina High to the Socceroos

Foster’s football journey began in Lismore, where he attended Kadina High School. Rising through the ranks, he became a Socceroos captain, earning 29 international caps and representing Australia in World Cup qualifers, Confederations Cup tournaments, and OFC Nations Cup victories.

His professional career spanned clubs in Australia,

Hong Kong, and England before retiring in 2003. Post-retirement, Foster became one of Australia’s most recognisable football voices during an 18-year tenure with SBS, covering multiple FIFA World Cups and shaping national football conversations.

Pride for the City

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said Foster’s name is synonymous with excellence, integrity, and leadership.

“To have Craig Foster’s name, a local former Socceroos captain, on this grandstand is a proud moment for our city,”

Mayor Krieg said.

“Craig has never forgotten his roots, and Lismore is proud to honour him in this way.” Foster expressed deep

gratitude for the recognition.

“I feel incredibly honoured and privileged to have this grandstand named after me in my hometown,” Foster said. “This region, this community, shaped who I am. Sport has the power to bring people together, and I hope this facility continues to do just that for generations to come.”

A Sporting Precinct of Champions

The Craig Foster Grandstand now stands alongside the Adam Gilchrist Pavilion and Lyn Larson Grandstand as part of the upgraded sports precinct, which is helping attract major events and supporting community sport in the Northern Rivers.

Deanne, Craig and Kevin Foster with Mayor Steve Krieg.

Jan Olley named 2025 Byron Shire Community Member of the Year

This year, Council received 95 nominations.

The unfappable Jan Olley has been named 2025 Byron Shire Community Member of the Year, recognised for two decades of tireless advocacy for bird conservation.

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye presented Jan with the award on 5 August at the Byron Shire Community Awards, held in front of friends, family, and fellow community champions. The annual awards honour outstanding contributions across eight categories, with nominations and selections made by community members.

Mayor Ndiaye said Jan’s impact on the region’s birdlife has been extraordinary.

“Jan was a founder of Byron Bird Buddies

The awards underscored Byron Shire’s strong community spirit, celebrating individuals and groups who give their time, passion, and skills to enrich local life.

20 years ago, a group dedicated to preserving habitat for resident and migratory birds,” she said. “She’s a

ferce advocate, highly respected by the community, Council, and agencies like NPWS and BirdLife Australia.”

In 2024, the Bird Buddies recorded 270 volunteer hours of conservation surveys under Jan’s leadership. She is a regular presence at workshops, guided walks, environmental clean-ups, and bird counts, and is known for generously sharing her extensive knowledge.

“Thanks to Jan and the Bird Buddies, we have years of valuable, recorded data on Byron Shire bird life,” Mayor Ndiaye said. “This award is a small but heartfelt token of our sincere

appreciation.”

2025 Byron Shire Community Award winners

Young Community Member of the Year:

Billie Rettenmaier –WIRES volunteer, Newrybar RFS member, free children’s music teacher, and community garden supporter. Access and Inclusion Award: Pauline Menczer – Former world champion surfer, improving beach accessibility at Torakina and coaching surfers with disabilities.

Caring for Country:

Lisa Sandstrom –Organiser of Save Wallum campaign, raising awareness and funds to protect Brunswick Heads land from development.

Creativity Award: Virginia Reid – Byron Community College arts educator and mentor; Anouska Samantha Gammon – Founder of Bangalow Theatre Company and BANG Academy of Performing Arts.

Contribution to Health and Wellbeing Award:

Dianne Browne –

instructor and community motivator promoting afordable, active living.

In Business for Good Award: Perigee Farms –Sustainable, regenerative farming business employing and training locals.

Community Initiative of the Year: Sound Shell Piano & Community Care by Laura Upsall – Secured a new community piano for Brunswick Heads via ABC’s Play It Again competition.

OPPORTUNITY

A

Pilates

Photo supplied

Robert Heyward

2025 MUD TRAIL

Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 August

10am - 4pm

Wild Nature Clay

Middle Pocket Pottery

Venessa Skye

Cara Asherovitch

Jo Norton

Caravane Ceramics

Ochre

Jenn Johnston Ceramics

SOS Ceramics

Safir

Keramika

Anthea Amore Ceramics

Studio Suvira

Suvira McDonald

Lauren Hotson

ML Ceramics

Koonyum Clayworks

Coe Studio - Carly Pascoe

Jay Richardson

Samantha Robinson

Hayden Youlley Design

Belle Époque Studio

Clayhead Ceramics

Muckware

Grace Chaplin

Blanche Alexander

Sofie Neuendorf

Lorr.de Ceramics

Victoria Keesing

Rainforest Ceramics

Sasa Scheiner Ceramics

Hoof Print Pottery

Janet Fraser

Elaine Richter

Byron Clayworks Fairview Studio

Lucy Be

Natalia Torres-Negreira

Luke Atkinson Ceramics

Casino High School celebrates academic growth during Public Education Week

Casino High School has marked Public Education Week (August 4–8) by celebrating a strong lift in student academic performance, particularly in NAPLAN results.

Principal Kyle Bryant said the week provided the perfect opportunity to acknowledge the eforts of both students and teachers.

“Our inclusion in the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) program will further encourage local families with children in Years 5 and 6 to join our transition program,” Mr Bryant said.

The school’s targeted approach to literacy in Years 7 and 8 has yielded signifcant improvements. Among Aboriginal students, the

percentage achieving ‘strong’ or ‘exceeding profciency’ levels rose by 9.6% in Reading, 2.7% in Writing, 6.6% in Spelling, and 13% in Grammar and Punctuation from 2024 to 2025.

The overall Year 7 cohort also recorded a 10.7% rise in strong and exceeding levels for Reading, including

a 4.8% increase in the exceeding category, and a 16.5% improvement in Grammar and Punctuation.

Year 9 students have also shown gains after a year of focused literacy and numeracy lessons, with increases of 6.8% in Writing, 8.6% in Grammar and Punctuation, and 10.9% in Numeracy

Quad bike deaths but experts stronger safety

In June, Casino High School was named as part of the NSW Government’s $100 million expansion of HPGE programs, designed to boost advanced learning opportunities for highpotential students in regional areas.

The upgrades at the school will include:

A music performance space with recording

facilities

Upgrades to food technology kitchens

A refurbished hall with a visual arts space

Improvements to general classrooms

Mr Bryant said the school community is excited about the upgrades, which will further enhance learning opportunities for students across all year levels.

Tweed Regional Museum Street Party Returns Bigger and Bolder for 2025

The Tweed’s most anticipated cultural celebration is back, with the 2025 Tweed Regional Museum Street Party set to transform the Museum precinct into a vibrant hub of music, art, food and fun on Saturday 6 September, from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Timed to capture the best of the spring evening air, this free, family-friendly event promises a fresh new program and a dynamic mix of entertainment that celebrates the stories

and spirit of the Tweed community.

Tweed Regional Museum Director Molly Green said the event has quickly become a cornerstone of the region’s cultural calendar.

“In only a few short years, the Street Party has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike,” Ms Green said.

“It’s our way of celebrating everything that makes the Tweed special – its stories, its spirit and its strong sense of community.”

This year’s event delivers something for

everyone, evolving from relaxing afternoon entertainment into an electrifying evening of live music and immersive experiences.

Street Party 2025 Highlights:

Main Stage Music –Featuring popular acts including DENNIS, Blind Corners, and Amber Rose

Artistic Installations – Experience vibrant infatable fower sculptures by Matthew Aberline

Interactive Creativity – Visit the Drop-in Drawing Booth with

Uki Public School

ENROLLING NOW FOR KINDERGARTEN 2026

Why choose Uki?

•Experienced, nurturing and friendly staff

•Outstanding teaching and great academic results

• Plenty of extra-curricular activities, including sport, band, choir, coding, pottery, drama, camps and excursions

•Support and extension programs

•Calm classrooms, sense of belonging

•Welcoming community

•Beautiful environment and play areas

•Lots of fun events

“We couldn’t be happier that we’ve chosen Uki Public School for our family. The teachers and staff genuinely care about the children and the opportunities provided are fantastic.”

James and Jo, Parents

Madeline White, and take part in weaving, charm-making, and brick-making workshops with Belinda Smith

Cultural Connections

– Sit in for a yarn with Uncle Franc Krasna and explore the Six Seasons Cultural Calendar, which represents seasonal change through Indigenous cultural knowledge.

Kid-Friendly Fun

– Keep young ones entertained with the Street Party Adventure Game, face painting, a chalk free-wall, silent disco, and more.

Food and Drinks

– Refuel with tasty oferings in the food zone, and enjoy a cold drink at the Street Party Bar by Earth Brewery Museum on Wheels

By Ian Rogers

– Enjoy native plant giveaways, sensory boxes, and mobile engagement from the museum team.

we connect through communication technology—from Morse code to mobile phones.

Free Entry – Bookings

injuries on farms and rural properties.

the region’s unique identity and fosters connection through culture.

Roaming Performers

– Expect surprises and pop-up performances throughout the precinct! Visitors are also encouraged to explore Speak Easy, the Museum’s latest exhibition exploring the surprising ways

New research shows that workplace quad bike deaths in Australia have fallen slightly since new safety standards were introduced fve years ago. However, public health experts warn that more action is needed to prevent fatalities and

Recommended While entry to the event is free, booking is recommended to stay up-to-date on the full program and event updates. Visit museum. tweed.nsw.gov.au/streetparty to register.

Celebrating Culture, Community and Creativity

The study, published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, was led by the University of Sydney’s AgHealth Australia.

Researchers analysed 161 work-related quad bike deaths from 2001 to 2024, fnding an average of seven fatalities per year.

The Street Party is part of Tweed Shire Council’s broader mission to support a creative, inclusive community that refects

This annual event is made possible through support from the NSW Government’s Open Streets Program, led by Transport for NSW, which has provided $350,000 in multi-year funding to help deliver the Street Party over the next three years.

An overwhelming 95% of deaths occurred on farms, with 65% involving rollovers.

Crush and asphyxiation injuries accounted for more than half of the fatalities, while head injuries represented 25%. Australians aged over 50 made up 74% of workplace deaths. New safety standards

To learn more about the Open Streets Program, visit: transport.nsw.gov. au/openstreets Stay connected and follow updates via Instagram: @ tweedregionalmuseum

Save the date - the Tweed Regional Museum Street Party 2025 is back, bigger and better than ever!

(Image: Bec Taylor)

Jef Gibbs

Robert Heyward

Inclusions:

 Return Transfers from home to airport

 Return Domestic Airfares ex Gold Coast

 Rinadeena Train Trip, Maria Island Cruise, Wineglass Bay Cruise and the spectacular Bruny Island Cruise

 Quality Accommodation throughout with breakfast daily

 All sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary

 Daily Breakfast, 5 Dinners and 5 lunches

 Explore the best Tasmania has to offer with a professional guide

 Escorted by a Casino Travel Shoppe Staff Member

Travel Dates: 05 February to 16 February 2026

Embark on an unforgettable journey around the stunning island of Tasmania, where you’ll dive into its rich convict history and indulge in its exquisite local produce. Discover the vibrant city of Hobart and its iconic Salamanca Markets. Venture to Port Arthur and be awe-struck by its historical significance and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a day trip to Maria Island and drive along the picturesque East Coast to explore the pristine Bay of Fires and Wine Glass Bay. Savor Launceston and be enchanted by the beauty of Cradle Mountain. Experience the rugged charm of Queenstown. This trip offers an unforgettable blend of history, nature and culinary delights.

SOUTHERN AFRICA JEWELS 21 DAY ESCORTED GROUP TOUR 2026

Inclusions:

 Return Transfers from your home to the Airport

 All Domestic and International Economy Airfares

 20 Nights’ Accommodation incl. 5 Nights Game Lodges

 Breakfast Daily, 15 Dinners, 9 Lunches

 Game drives in open vehicles in Private Game Lodges

 Game drives Chobe National Park and boat safaris on Chobe River

 Guided tour of the Victoria Falls

 Escorted by a Casino Travel Shoppe Staff Member

Travel Dates: 01 May to 21 May 2026

Embark on an unforgettable journey of South Africa boasting diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Chobe in Botswana offers unparalleled wildlife experiences in Botswana's pristine wilderness. Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls, provides breathtaking beauty. Together, they offer a quintessential African adventure, merging natural wonders with cultural immersion. Explore, witness, and be transformed. Travel with the African experts with more than 40 years of expertise in arranging travel in Africa for the most memorable experience!

Invercauld House Takes Gold at 2025 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards

“This award highlights the outstanding dedication of our staff,” said Invercauld House Manager Eli Fuller. “Every member of our team consistently goes above and beyond to ensure guests feel welcome. We take pride in offering a beautiful space where people can connect, reflect and grow.”

Invercauld House has taken out the top honour in the Business Event Venues category at the 2025 NSW North Coast Regional Tourism Awards, winning gold for its exceptional service, strong community engagement, and commitment to excellence.

With 29 well-appointed guest suites and a range of modern conference facilities, the venue strikes a unique balance between professional function and serene natural beauty.

“This award highlights the outstanding dedication of our staf,” said Invercauld House Manager Eli Fuller.

“Every member of our team consistently goes above and beyond to ensure guests feel welcome. We take pride in ofering a beautiful space where people can connect, refect and grow.”

Beyond its excellence in events and hospitality,

Nestled within 2.1 hectares of lush, treelined gardens just minutes from Lismore’s CBD and regional airports, Invercauld House has grown into one of the Northern Rivers’ premier destinations for conferences, staf development, spiritual retreats, and community gatherings.

tamarasmith.org.au

Among those

from this support are North Coast Landcare, Friends of the Koala, Resilient Lismore, Our Kids, Homelessness NSW, and Women Up North – a testament to the venue’s mission of accessibility and community service.

Winning gold at the regional level now sees Invercauld House advance to the prestigious 2025 NSW Tourism Awards, to be held on 27 November. The award not only recognises the excellence of the facility but also shines a spotlight on the Northern Rivers’ growing reputation as a hub for high-quality, communitycentred tourism and business events.

Jef Gibbs

Invercauld House has shown remarkable dedication to the local community. Over the past

12 months, the venue has supported 39 not-for-proft organisations through discounted venue hire, positively impacting close to 2,000 people across the region.

to beneft

Byron Shire gears up for major flood recovery works

Byron Shire Council’s Infrastructure Recovery Team will be ramping up construction activity over the next fve months, delivering a series of essential projects to repair damage from the 2022 foods Manager of

Infrastructure Recovery

Phil Warner said months of planning and investigation had laid the groundwork for the busy schedule ahead.

“In June, we began embankment stabilisation works on Wilsons Creek Road. It’s now full steam ahead with construction around the shire for the

next few years,” he said. Key projects from August to December 2025

Coopers Lane –Damaged culvert and road repairs. Work expected to start late 2025.

Huonbrook – Gravel road repairs nearly complete. Council seeking funding to upgrade a causeway for truck access.

Left Bank Road (near 599) – Embankment stabilisation, road works, and guardrail installation from mid-August to November, with some intermittent closures.

Main Arm Road (near 1650) – Slope stabilisation, new unsealed road, and guardrails from September to year’s end.

Minor Landslip Repairs – Multiple sites on Goonengerry Road, Left Bank Road, Main Arm Road, and The Pocket Road from September through late 2025.

Mullumbimby Road – Safety upgrades from The Saddle Road to McAuleys Lane, including resurfacing, signage, guardrails, and line marking. Works run July–December. Changed trafc conditions apply.

Wilsons Creek Road – Ongoing embankment stabilisation near 803 Wilsons Creek Road, with a second site starting mid-August. Night works to replace and repair 55 culvert crossings from August, plus pavement and sealing works later in the year.

Mr Warner said many food recovery projects will extend into 2026, 2027 and even 2028

“There will be disruptions, and trafc control will be in place. We thank the community for their patience and encourage everyone to stay informed through our website, communication channels, and Live Trafc updates.”

Council reminds drivers to slow down through construction zones, follow signage and trafc controller directions, and allow extra travel time. These works are jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, with some projects receiving additional program funding.

Byron Shire gears up for major food recovery works

Jef Gibbs

Byron Shire Council’s Infrastructure Recovery Team will be ramping up construction activity over the next fve months, delivering a series of essential projects to repair damage from the 2022 foods Manager of Infrastructure Recovery

Phil Warner said months of planning and investigation had laid the groundwork for the busy schedule ahead.

“In June, we began embankment stabilisation works on Wilsons Creek Road. It’s now full steam ahead with construction around the shire for the next few years,” he said. Key projects from August to December 2025

•Coopers Lane – Damaged culvert and road repairs. Work expected to start late 2025.

•Huonbrook – Gravel road repairs nearly complete. Council seeking funding to upgrade a causeway for truck access.

•Left Bank Road (near 599) – Embankment stabilisation, road works, and guardrail installation from mid-August to November, with some intermittent closures.

•Main Arm Road (near 1650) – Slope stabilisation, new unsealed road, and guardrails from September to year’s end.

•Minor Landslip Repairs – Multiple sites on Goonengerry Road, Left Bank Road, Main Arm Road, and The Pocket Road from September through late 2025.

•Mullumbimby Road – Safety upgrades from The Saddle Road

Landslip repair in progress near 803 Wilsons Creek Road. PHOTO SUPPLIED

Wilsons Creek landslip near 803 Aug 2025

Jef Gibbs

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

‘Leems, I’ve observed have you are not reading much lately. WHY?’ OMG, ‘Mum Jane’ can be so vexatious. ‘Well Mum, it’s nothing other than I don’t WANT to read at the moment – Gottit, comprende?’ She did her old lady mutter stuf but I ignored her. THEN, another interruption. ‘Leems, remember how you asked me to buy you a ‘Mount Everest Snow & Polar Bear Proof Cat Snuggle Puss Sleeping Bag? I asked if it was a WANT or a NEED? You emphatically told me it was assuredly a ‘NEED’ even though you have 3 beds & 6 plush blankies.’ Polar Bears & snow are not common in our street Leems! Remember?’ (Eeek? Could this be truly true? Did ‘I’ say this?) Mum wafed on. ‘ AND, remember I said NO to your request Leems ‘cos this was just one of the many frivolous things you ask for without considering whether it is really a ‘WANT’ or a ‘’NEED’. (Crikey, life is grim for a feline at times. We cats PLEAD for the simplest of things!) ‘Leems, have you read any books by a bloke called Warren Bufe tt ?’ ‘Oooh, Mum, you mean the bloke who invented my favourite style of a meal, where I can eat as much as I want. Is that him? (A SCOWL) NUP! Warren Bufett is one is one of the richest blokes in the world, kinda worth $144 billion

AND he still lives in the same house he purchased for $31,000 in 1958! Hence my boy, my question about your reading is relevant for your own fnancial education. Mr Bufett recommends that one must always, before making a purchase, consider if what they are paying for is a NEED or a WANT! Your thoughts Leems?’ Crikey! Ponder; I’VE GOT IT Mum!’ I got the frown look. ‘Well, what IS IT smarty cat?’ ‘Well Mum, for all his wealth, I reckon Mr Bufett is a little unmindful in his ‘WANT v NEED’ comment ‘cos he relates primarily to ‘stuf’ in life, not love. Remember Mum when I was rescued by Lucinda & lived in her ‘homeless kitties’ place with my 6 siblings: you Mum, used to come in daily and talk to us and sometimes bring food for Lucinda to help her orphans. My siblings all got adopted and I was the ONLY one left. THEN, one day, you came in, talked to Lucinda, gave her $, and bought me home with you. My feline wisdom clearly told me you not only had a NEED, but you also had a WANT in your life that told you to ‘bring him home’. I wasn’t a foolish impulse purchase: I was a pure love instinct in you. And look back Mum. We’ve been together for 12+ years and what bliss it has been!’ Mum looked rather gobsmacked. ’Oooh, Leems, I feel so much at peace now about ‘buying’ you ‘cos I was told by friends that ‘cats are very difcult, costly & problematic & will cause me much stress.’ (I raised my stunning eyebrows..this is NOT correct!) She went on: ‘well, Leems, the combo of WANT & NEED in my life at the same time bought us together! I do wonder if Mr Bufett has a cat?’ Hmmmm? Nitey with hugs, thoughts & purrsies, Leemo & Mum Jane.

Letters to the Editor

Have your say in The Northern Rivers Times!

We welcome your feedback, opinions, praise, concerns, and reflections on local issues, events, and stories.

Send your letters to: Jeff Gibbs letters@heartlandmedia. com.au

Deadline: Fridays at noon

Please include your name, address, and phone number for verification purposes (not for publication).

The Northern Rivers Times is committed to providing a platform for diverse community voices. The views expressed in letters are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, editors, or staff. Letters may be edited for length or clarity. Offensive or defamatory content will not be published.

Lighting Up the Future

The announcement of $200,000 for Stan Payne Oval’s lighting is fantastic news for the Evans Head community. It’s about time our kids and local sports groups had access to night-time facilities like those seen in larger centres. These kinds of upgrades don’t just help sport; they strengthen community spirit. Thank you to Richie Williamson and everyone who advocated for this investment.

— Deb R., Broadwater

Edition 264 July 31. The Northern Rivers Mustangs extend sincere thanks to Brian E of South Lismore for his generous $500 donation to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, acknowledged in last week’s Northern Rivers Times. The club is proud to announce it’s on track to donate another $500 to the service in December 2025. They also thank The Northern Rivers Times for its ongoing support and excellent local coverage. Mustang owners interested in joining monthly drives and supporting great causes are encouraged to get

involved. With 22 members already on board, contact John on 0404 884 192 to fnd out more.

The Sweetest Storm in a Dish

The Salted Caramel Dream Dessert broke me. I laughed, drooled, and cried all at once. That line about your cousin Tracey? Genius. Please publish more from this culinary comedian. It's the therapy we didn’t know we needed.

— Bev S., Bonalbo

Flood Petition Gives Us Hope

Kevin Hogan presenting that petition to the CSIRO shows the power of community action. After what we’ve endured, reducing food heights is not a luxury—it’s essential. Let’s hope the CSIRO modelling leads to real, tangible outcomes. We’ve had enough reports. Time for solutions.

— Craig L., Coraki

Leemo’s Forum Was Pure Cat Chaos

I nearly choked on my tea reading Leemo’s latest tale! That cat-led “forum” was the funniest thing I’ve read all week. The image of Flufy Bum claiming the grass warned her about an ant bite had me howling. And Leemo’s brilliant reversal on Mum Jane at the end was purr-fect poetic justice. I don’t know how these columns keep getting funnier, but please never stop publishing them.

— Karen D., Booyong

Clarence Council’s Cloak and Dagger Must Stop The caravan park evictions are becoming an expensive disaster, and Clarence Valley Council is only making things worse by stonewalling. Residents deserve transparency, not legal intimidation. If the General Manager has nothing to hide, why the secrecy? The costs are spiralling, and ratepayers will wear it in the end. The NSW Government must step in before this turns into a full-blown scandal.

— Rebecca G., Iluka

Nigel Dawe Nails It on Efort

Nigel Dawe’s “Making an Efort” column on page 19 is one I’ve clipped for the fridge. His take on Sophocles, Barassi, and the meaning of true grit should be compulsory reading in every high school. Too many chase shortcuts or give up at the frst hurdle. This was a much-needed

dose of inspiration in a world distracted by instant results. Bravo, Nigel.

— Thomas R., Federal

Bentley Art Prize Still a Highlight of Regional Culture

As a regular visitor to the Bentley Art Prize, I’m delighted to see it reach its 40th year. The talent on display never disappoints, and the community feel is something special. It’s not just an art show—it’s a cultural touchstone for our region. Congratulations to the organisers and artists for continuing this creative tradition.

— Elaine T., Bentley

The Cooking Page Is Honestly the Best Part I’ve got to say, the cheeky humour on the cooking page is the highlight of my week. That “Beefy Bottoms and Sweet Tops” cottage pie? Hilarious and delicious. I read it out loud to my housemate, and we both laughed the whole time— then immediately made it for dinner. It’s rare to fnd a recipe page that entertains and feeds you. More please!

— Nicole H., Bangalow

Job Cuts a Slap in the Face

I’m appalled by the Minns Government’s cuts to the Department of Primary Industries. Stripping regional jobs, especially in areas like biosecurity and food recovery, is disgraceful. We always get the short end of the stick out here. We need support—not cost-cutting.

— Julie S., Copmanhurst

Miss 8’s Story is FeatherTastic

Please tell Miss 8 her story made me smile. We need more joy like that in the paper. I can’t wait to read next week’s chapter.

— Pamela D., Nimbin

An Oval Lit, but Futures Dimmed

Funny, isn’t it? While they light up one oval in Evans Head, they’re dimming the futures of regional communities by cutting over 260 jobs from our ag support services. What’s the message? Play footy, but don’t expect food help or farming advice?

— David M., Tabulam

Thank You for Cold Storage Investment

As someone who runs a small produce business, I’m thrilled about the $4 million cold storage facility in Casino. This will change how we get our products to

market and reduce waste. Finally, rural food producers get a win.

— Michelle G., Casino

Tweed CBD Upgrade Long Overdue

The main street in Tweed Heads needs a facelift, and $1.5 million will certainly help. We’ve watched other towns modernise while ours has aged. Hopefully, this brings more foot trafc and pride back to our centre.

— Steve T., Tweed Heads South

Crabbes Creek Hall Reopening Worth Celebrating

It warmed my heart to read about the reopening of Crabbes Creek Community Hall. Our rural halls are more than buildings— they’re the backbone of our social life. It’s good to see one restored, not lost to time or weather.

— Ellen F., Crabbes Creek

“Beefy Bottoms” Had Me Cackling

That cottage pie recipe should be illegal—it’s so funny, so delicious, and so cheeky I had to read it twice. Honestly, between the saucy puns and the comforting mash, I forgot all my worries. Who’s writing these masterpieces? Give them a raise!

— Tina L., Eltham

Grafton’s Energy Future Sounds Bright

Saul Grifth’s visit to Grafton is inspiring. He speaks sense: electrify homes, cut bills, help the planet. I’ve already switched to solar and wish more programs made it easier for others to follow suit.

— Brian K., Grafton

Toolkit for Renewable Project End-of-Life Is Crucial

RE-Alliance’s toolkit is long overdue. Renewable energy has been welcomed in many rural areas, but there’s been uncertainty about what happens at project end. Clear, factual info is vital. Great to see it made accessible.

— Tom J., Casino

Markets, Music, and Mud—Northern Rivers Does It All Your events guide had me scribbling in my calendar. From muddy obstacle races to serene markets and the Byron Writers Festival, the diversity is fantastic. Thank you for compiling such a useful roundup.

— Anne-Marie K., Myocum

New Tweed Service Centre Is a Game Changer

The new Service NSW Centre in Tweed is a welcome upgrade. The old one was cramped and dated. With more people moving to the area, this was sorely needed.

— Annie W., Kingsclif

Beef Budgets Bring Relief

It’s encouraging to read the updated beef margin numbers. Finally, some solid gains after the past couple of rough years. Let’s hope rising feedlot demand keeps things stable through spring.

— Gary L., Old Bonalbo

South Grafton Rebels: Still True Grit

Tough day at the ofce for the Rebels, but hats of to their determination. They were clearly outgunned, but not out-hearted. Best of luck this weekend— let’s fnish strong!

— Jake D., Junction Hill

Ballina Writers Fest: Our Literary Crown Jewel

So thrilled the Byron Writers Festival has returned to Bangalow. This year’s lineup is particularly strong and highlights storytelling as a force for connection. A cultural anchor for our region.

— Sienna M., Bangalow

That Dessert Was a Whole Mood

"Whipped cream and feelings." Honestly, that recipe writer needs their own book. I made the salted caramel dream and laughed the whole way through. Comfort food with sass—more please!

— Cara B., Uki

Comedy + Cottage Pie = Recipe Gold

Whoever came up with

“Beefy Bottoms and Sweet Tops”—take a bow! I couldn’t stop giggling while reading it out loud to my mates at the pub. That’s entertainment!

— Shane W., Evans Head

Tyalgum’s Back—and Better Than Ever

It’s been a long road— literally—but Tyalgum’s spirit never wavered. I’ll be there for the Country Festival with bells (and boots) on. This community deserves our full support.

— Fiona P., Terragon

Let’s Keep Koalas Safe

The lights on Hinterland Way are a brilliant idea. I drive that stretch often and have sadly seen too many koalas dead on the road. Anything that gives drivers a better chance to avoid them is worth every cent.

— Tamara L., Bangalow

Casino Rescue Squad Deserves the Best Bravo to the NSW Government and Richie Williamson for helping Casino Rescue Squad upgrade their vehicle. These volunteers save lives. They should always have the best equipment to do that job.

— Carl D., Spring Grove

From Hiroshima to Ballina: A Powerful Message

The Peace Pole installed at Ballina Coast High is a touching gesture. In a world full of noise and confict, it's beautiful to see young people being reminded that peace starts in small ways.

— Lorraine H., Ballina

Alstonville’s New Fire Station Is a Lifesaver

A huge thank you to all involved in getting Alstonville its new fre station. Our brigade has

done amazing work from outdated facilities for years. This modern station is not just deserved—it’s essential.

— Rhys J., Alstonville

Cattle Prices Give Room to Breathe

We’ve all felt the squeeze lately, so it’s a relief to see some return on investment. Hoping this trend continues and smaller producers get the break they deserve.

— Rosie B., Tabulam

Craving Cottage Pie— Not the Ex I made the "Ex-Inspired" cottage pie and, wow, it delivered. But that opening line? “Still full of beef” nearly made me spit wine. Love the sass. Love the spuds.

— Tam M., Tuckombil

Rail Trail Wins Again— and Rightfully So

The Rail Trail is a treasure, and it’s great to see it get the recognition it deserves. I've ridden it from Crabbes Creek to Murwillumbah—beautiful, safe, and uplifting. More trails like this, please!

— Jenna P., Uki

Clarence Council Must Be Held Accountable

The Clarence caravan park situation is appalling. If the allegations are true, the General Manager is risking ratepayers’ money to avoid scrutiny. That’s not governance—it’s dodging accountability.

— Simon V., Iluka

Honouring Hidden Treasures

It was heartwarming to read about the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll. Women like Cheryl Dimmock and Melinda McLennan do so much behind the scenes. They are the glue in rural communities and deserve

to be seen.

— Wendy C., Woodburn

Clarence River Science Gets My Vote

The sediment survey on the Clarence is a fantastic idea. Let’s get the data, involve the locals, and protect our river properly. Science and community combined—more of this, please.

— Jamie L., Maclean

BUNDJALARMS

DESERVE THE WIN

Well done to the Lismore Bundjalarms Netball Club for securing funding. Sports should be accessible to all, and this funding will make a big diference, especially the idea of a NAIDOC Netball Cup.

— Kelly R., Goonellabah

SES HQ in Ballina is a Must-Have

Given our food history, a new SES headquarters is absolutely vital for Ballina. This isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. I applaud the forward thinking from both council and state government.

— Adam N., Skennars Head

Cheaper Batteries? About Time!

The new battery scheme is excellent news. If Australia is serious about going green, households need afordable access to storage solutions. I’m already contacting SAE for a quote.

— Lisa H., Mullumbimby

School Grants = Grassroots Growth

Love that the Local Sport Grant Program is still going. My daughter’s little soccer club survived because of this funding last year. If you’re a club manager—get that application in.

— Craig T., Lismore

Does your work place you?...

By Nigel Dawe

IT’S the abrupt sound of the very last letter, I think, that makes the word ‘work’ sound like a drawn pistol that has just been cocked. There is something that seems to put us all under siege in some way when it comes to what this word suggests, or directly implies. Especially if you’re in a line of work that doesn’t appeal to you in any way. And we’ve all been there, having to haul ourselves into stifing workplaces, doing the most menial things so as to keep the wolves at bay.

Many times, in my working life I’ve found myself where the Irish writer Claire Keegan had once so well identifed, “I am in a spot where I can neither be what I always am nor turn into what I could be.” And yet, when I look back it was those very spots and experiences that gave me the impetus and drive to genuinely pursue what has meant the most to me. Being able to do what you love never gets dropped into any of our laps, but that said, you need to frst know with every fbre of your being, what it is that you’d love to do more than anything else.

While what we do for work can sometimes be the means to the ends we desire, instead of being the actual desired ends in themselves, the 19th Century English educator L. P. Jacks once gave the most astute advice when he suggested, “A master in the art of living draws no sharp distinction

between their work and their play; their labour and their leisure; their mind and their body; their education and their recreation. They hardly know which is which. They simply pursue their vision of excellence through whatever they are doing.”

And whatever it is we do (whether paid or unpaid) we should enjoy the doing of it. Life is way too short to be doing things that don’t enhance the quality, signifcance, or actual beauty of our lives in some way. Relatedly, Alan Watts once said, “This is the real secret of life – to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now. And instead of calling it work, realise it is play.” Or in other words, always be mindful of correcting the enjoyment/ purpose versus drudgery quota to that which you do for your ‘living’.

That each person on average in this country will spend 90,000 hours working over the course of their life is something that ought to prompt each of us to refect deeply on what it is we actually do. And whether or not our time and eforts are best spent so as to make our lives, and the lives of those we love, the best and most balanced that they can be. As if addressing each of these concerns, Lao Tzu once surmised, “In thinking, keep to the simple. In confict, be fair and generous. In governing, don’t try to control. In work, do what you enjoy. In family life, be completely present.”

Clarke Family Brings Heartfelt Home Care to the Richmond Valley

Jef Gibbs

As Australia marks Aged Care Employee Day on August 7, the Richmond Valley is celebrating a remarkable local family who have made caring for others a shared vocation.

Joanne Clarke, a nurse and mother of seven, was the frst in her family to join BaptistCare at home, providing in-home support to seniors across the region. What began as a return to the workforce after 16 years raising children quickly became a familywide mission to serve the elderly with compassion and care.

The Clarke family's dedication is not just about providing care; it's about building connections and fostering a sense of community.

“Working with BaptistCare at home has been a perfect ft for me,” Joanne said. “It’s incredibly special to help people stay happy, healthy and independent in their own homes.”

Joanne’s passion soon rubbed of on her husband Phillip, who moved from working in the NDIS sector to join the BaptistCare team. He quickly formed close bonds with clients— particularly retired farmers and older men—ofering both practical help and meaningful conversations. From there, the ripple

efect grew. Son Thomas, formerly a hospital cleaner, was welcomed by clients not just for his cleaning skills but his company— often greeted with freshly baked cakes and cups of tea. Daughter Lucy joined the team shortly after, rounding out a caring quartet of Clarkes making a diference across the Richmond Valley. Their approach to care extends far beyond household tasks. “It’s about human connection,” Joanne said. “When you go into someone’s home, you’re not just ticking of jobs. You’re listening to stories, sharing moments, and becoming part of their life—and they become part

of yours.”

BaptistCare’s at home services span personal care, social outings, gardening, and household help, empowering older Australians to remain independent and connected to their communities.

Now, with four family members on board, Joanne says she’s proud of how her children have embraced roles that bring both purpose and community value.

“I’m so proud of my kids. They’re doing work most people their age wouldn’t consider, and they’re thriving.”

The Clarkes are part of the broader BaptistCare at home North Coast team, which supports seniors with individualised care plans across the region.

With more than 12,000 employees nationally and over 38,000 clients, BaptistCare has been delivering Christian-based care since 1944, celebrating 80 years of service in 2024.

As BaptistCare celebrates Aged Care Employee Day, the Clarke family stands out as a shining example of intergenerational dedication to service—putting heart into home care, one visit at a time.

More Homes Boarded Up as Reconstruction Authority Faces Community Backlash

Jef Gibbs

The NSW Reconstruction Authority has come under renewed fre after enforcing evictions across the Northern Rivers, ordering court sherifs to remove residents from government-owned properties and board up homes—despite the ongoing regional housing crisis.

The properties, many of which were previously food-damaged but later repaired and reoccupied by displaced locals, have been the subject of escalating tension.

Residents and community advocates say negotiations were ongoing when sherifs moved in this week, cutting power and sealing of the houses.

Greens MP and North Coast spokesperson Sue Higginson condemned the actions, arguing the Authority is undermining the very communities it

was created to support.

“When the NSW Government established the Reconstruction Authority, they handed over unprecedented powers and funding to a group that is now causing signifcant harm in the very communities they were established to help,”

Ms Higginson said.

She cited the situation in Pine Street, Lismore, where residents vacated homes voluntarily—many of which had been safely and peacefully occupied since the 2022 foods— before sherifs arrived.

“These were not derelict or unsafe structures,”

she said. “These were homes—cared for, repaired, and part of a functioning community.

Now they sit empty, while families are forced to sleep in cars.”

Ms Higginson also criticised Premier Chris Minns for his announcement during

Cyclone Alfred that homes purchased for eventual demolition would be forcibly cleared, regardless of ongoing community negotiations.

“The actions this week are not about recovery. They are about erasure,” she said. “It’s a genuine shame that the community has started calling it the ‘Deconstruction Authority’.”

The Reconstruction Authority, established in the aftermath of the 2022 foods, was granted sweeping powers and a billion-dollar budget to rebuild and rehouse impacted communities. Critics now say the Authority is failing its mission by focusing on asset removal over peoplefrst outcomes.

Community members continue to call for transparency, compassion, and a re-evaluation of priorities in the state's food recovery strategy.

Year-Round Tick Paralysis Threat Highlighted for National Tick Awareness Month

Jef Gibbs

Friday, 1 August 2025

marks National Tick Awareness Month, and Pet Insurance Australia is urging pet owners to remain vigilant about tick paralysis in dogs and cats, even during the cooler months. New emergency case data and pet health trends confrm the deadly risk posed by paralysis ticks persists year-round.

Tick paralysis is a lifethreatening condition caused by a neurotoxin released by certain tick species. The toxin causes progressive paralysis, typically starting with weakness in the hind limbs and moving to the front limbs.

“In severe cases, it can result in respiratory failure,” said Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia.

“Common signs include

unsteadiness when walking, difculty standing, laboured breathing, lethargy, changes in vocalisation, loss of appetite, and vomiting.”

Expanding Tick Threat

The Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH), one of Australia’s largest 24/7 emergency networks, has confrmed over 700 cases of tick paralysis in pets since early 2023. While most cases have occurred along the east coast in Sydney, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, a recent locally acquired case in Adelaide shows the range of this threat is expanding.

“Ticks pose a big problem for pet owners, and staying vigilant is paramount in protecting pets from this deadly

parasite,” Crighton said.

“If you live in a known tick area, it is important to start considering your preventive protection now.”

The 2025 Pet Health Monitor by PetSure, Australia’s most comprehensive annual

These new SASH figures and PetSure data show clearly— tick risks don’t disappear in cooler months,” Crighton said. “Year-round prevention is critical to keep pets safe and avoid serious treatment costs.”

analysis of pet insurance claims, reveals that tick paralysis is among the most costly emergency conditions. Individual treatment claims have exceeded $57,000,

Free Grant Writing Workshops to Empower Northern Rivers Community Groups

Community organisations across the Northern Rivers are being ofered the chance to boost their funding skills with a series of free grant writing workshops coming to Evans Head, Lismore, and Casino this August.

Hosted by the Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRCF), the workshops are open to not-for-profts, local charities, and community groups keen to strengthen their impact by accessing essential funding.

“These workshops are about breaking down the barriers grassroots organisations face when applying for grants,” said NRCF CEO Sam Henderson. “We want to give local groups the confdence and skills to write stronger applications and secure the support they need.”

Led by NRCF’s expert grants team, the sessions will focus on practical skills, including: = Finding the right grant opportunities = Designing clear, impactful projects = Writing persuasive applications = Budgeting and

for everyone...

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refecting the complexity and urgency of care needed.

Key Facts Pet Owners Should Know

Ticks are active all year, with cases occurring in both summer and winter. Tick paralysis is a medical emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention. Treatment costs for paralysis tick cases can run into tens of thousands of dollars.

“These new SASH fgures and PetSure data show clearly—tick risks don’t disappear in cooler months,” Crighton said.

“Year-round prevention is critical to keep pets safe and avoid serious treatment costs.”

How to Protect Your Pet

Use veterinarianrecommended tick prevention products every month of the year.

Check your pets daily, especially after time outdoors in bushland or grassy areas.

Be alert for symptoms like limb weakness, coughing, lethargy or vomiting.

“Even if you don’t live in a known tickprone area, it’s crucial to research your travel destination,” Crighton added. “Many pet owners are caught of guard when visiting regions with high tick activity, often without

adequate protection in place for their pets.”

A Call to Action

Pet Insurance Australia is calling on all pet owners to take tick prevention seriously. With the danger now extending beyond traditional east coast hotspots, year-round vigilance is the best way to avoid heartbreaking and costly outcomes. For more information on tick paralysis and prevention strategies, consult your local veterinarian and ensure your pets are protected 12 months a year

evaluation = Avoiding common mistakes—including the misuse of AI

Attendees will also review successful local grant examples, take part in peer discussions, and participate in a Q&A.

Workshop Locations: = Lismore Library –Thursday 21 August, 10am–1pm = Casino RSM – Friday 22 August, 10am–1pm Places are limited and bookings are essential. Register now at: www.nrcf. org.au/2026-grant-writingworkshops

Ballina Land Remediation to Unlock Future Housing Opportunities

Robert Heyward

Ballina Land Remediation to Unlock New Housing

The NSW Government has announced an $899,000 grant to Ballina Shire Council to remediate contaminated land on Canal Road, aiming to boost housing supply in the Northern Rivers. The site, once used for cattle tick dipping, is polluted

Up Over A Cuppa!

with arsenic and other chemicals. A further $100,000 from Council will support the removal of contaminated soil and its replacement with clean fll, making 3.9 hectares ready for development. The clean-up will enable a planned residential project to proceed and forms part of the Minns Government’s broader eforts to tackle housing shortages. It follows the

announcement of 355 new public and community homes across the Northern Rivers, with 48 planned in Ballina. “This project will unlock muchneeded land for homes and support community growth,” said Minister for Lands and Property, Steve Kamper. Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Safn, added the site’s location near Fripp Oval will also beneft local

Two Northern Rivers Finalists Recognised in Prestigious State Nursing Awards

Two outstanding healthcare professionals from the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) have been named fnalists in the 2025 NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards, highlighting the region’s exceptional contribution to patient care.

Announced on 6 August, the statewide awards recognise 27 fnalists across nine categories, celebrating nurses and midwives who demonstrate excellence, compassion, and innovation in their work. Among them are:

• The Kamala Nursing Team from Lismore Base Hospital’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), nominated for Team of the Year , and

• Thomas Mull-Mathers , a Registered Nurse at Tweed Valley Hospital’s Emergency Department, nominated in the New to Practice Nurse/Midwife of the Year category. Both fnalists were earlier recognised as winners in the 2025 NNSWLHD Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards and have now progressed to the state-level fnals.

Compassion at the Core of Care

The Kamala Nursing Team has been lauded for their patient-centred approach to youth mental health care. Their work includes innovative and inclusive initiatives such as a co-designed welcome video and brochure to ease the admission experience, daily LGBTQIA+ support practices, and an on-site school program tailored to individual patients. These eforts aim to create a nurturing, structured, and safe space for young people navigating complex mental health challenges.

NNSWLHD Director of District Nursing and Midwifery, Katharine Dufy, praised the team’s dedication:

“They go above and beyond to ensure children and young people entering the mental health ward feel less daunted and more confdent in our service.”

A Rising Star in Emergency Care

Since joining the Tweed Valley Hospital ED in March 2024, Thomas Mull-Mathers has quickly made an impression.

Described as a warm, compassionate, and highly capable nurse, Thomas has demonstrated maturity beyond his years in the fast-paced emergency setting.

He has completed all required competencies, shown initiative through self-directed learning, and built strong relationships with both colleagues and patients. His colleagues have praised his calm presence and unwavering focus on delivering highquality, patient-centred care.

“Tommy is a much-loved team member whose commitment to learning and excellence makes him a standout in our district,” said Ms Dufy.

Our growing reliance on battery operated technologies has resulted in an alarming increase in battery-related fres.

This year Fire and Rescue NSW have responded to an average of more than one battery fre per day.

Batteries incorrectly disposed of into kerbside bins are the main cause of fres in waste trucks and waste facilities across the Northern Rivers, endangering workers, damaging equipment and wasting a valuable resource that could otherwise be recovered.

All batteries can pose a safety risk if damaged, faulty or incorrectly charged or disposed of, but re-chargeable

Lithium-ion batteries are a particular concern due to their potential to go into hard to control ‘thermal runaway’.

To prevent battery fres occurring – Never bin any battery!

Here’s how to dispose of most loose batteries safely

Remove loose batteries from appliance

Tape terminals with clear sticky tape to prevent short circuiting

Place in ventilated glass container out of reach of children

· Dispose of them at your nearest available battery drop-off point for free

Batteries can be dropped off at Council’s Community Recycling Centre (CRC), which can be found by visiting www.newaste.org.au/crc.

There are also numerous other conveniently located drop-off points across the region, including at many large local high street retailers such as supermarkets and hardware stores. To fnd your nearest, visit bcycle.com.au/drop-off/

If you need to dispose of items that contain embedded batteries visit

Batteries can be safely disposed of for free at your local CRC or any other B-cycle drop off point which are located at many large retail stores across the region.

www.newaste.org.au/batteries to fnd out where and how.

This project is a NSW Environment Protection Authority Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy initiative, funded from the waste levy

Celebrating Dedication Across NSW

NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce AM and Chief Nursing and Midwifery Ofcer Jacqui Cross both congratulated the fnalists, emphasising the critical role nurses and midwives play across the public health system.

“These awards highlight the tireless dedication and care provided by nurses and midwives every day,” said Ms Pearce.

“They are often with us through the most vulnerable moments in our lives, and their impact is immeasurable.”

The winners will be announced at a ceremony held at NSW Parliament House in November.

For more information about the 2025 NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards, visit: www.health. nsw.gov.au/einma.

Thomas Mull-Mathers, a Registered Nurse at Tweed Valley Hospital’s Emergency Department, nominated in the New to Practice Nurse/Midwife of the Year category

The Kamala Nursing Team from Lismore Base Hospital’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), nominated for Team of the Year

From Struggling to Shine: Milaya’s Journey from Isolation to Leadership

At just 17 years old, Lismore student Milaya Mackenzie has gone from avoiding school altogether to becoming a school leader and a passionate advocate for youth wellbeing. Her journey from feeling isolated and bullied to fnding her voice and supporting others is both inspiring and timely, especially as Australia prepares for Bullying No Way Week from 11–15 August.

Milaya’s early high school years were marked by emotional challenges. Struggling with bullying and not feeling like she belonged, school became a place she wanted to escape.

“I found it difcult to attend classes,” Milaya shared. “I always tried to get out of going to school … because I was getting bullied. And I just didn’t feel like I was in the right group.”

She is far from alone. Reports of school-age cyberbullying complaints have surged by over 450% in the past fve years, with many victims younger than 13. These troubling statistics refect a broader issue facing children and

teens in today’s digital and social environments.

Milaya’s turning point came when her mother discovered Social Futures’ Getting it Together program—a support service for young people in regional NSW.

“We booked in for one session and I felt an instant connection to the program worker. It just felt like the right place to be,” Milaya said. Through the program, Milaya was equipped with tools to manage anxiety, deal with stress, and develop a stronger sense of identity. She said

it gave her the clarity to realise she didn’t need to conform to anyone else’s idea of where she belonged.

“After I went to Social Futures, I found that I didn’t need to ft into a category. You are your

I found it difficult to attend classes,” Milaya shared. “I always tried to get out of going to school … because I was getting bullied. And I just didn’t feel like I was in the right group.

own category. You create that yourself.”

Melissa Gordon, General Manager of Child, Youth and Family Programs at Social Futures, says bullying can have longterm impacts on young people and their mental health. She emphasised the importance of access to support services like Getting it Together

“Seeking support is one of the most valuable steps young people can take. Your feelings matter, and there’s help available,” she said.

Milaya has now transformed her

own experience into motivation to help others. She is currently in Year 12 and proudly serves as House Captain at her school.

“I’m telling people to come to our sporting events, to come to school, and to make school fun,” she said. “I want to help people enjoy school and get through hard times.”

Funded by the NSW Government, Getting it Together is one of several youth-focused programs run by Social Futures to support

resilience, confdence, and community among young people.

If you or someone you know is struggling with bullying or school-related stress, help is available through Social Futures on 1800 719 625 or via headspace Lismore, Tweed Heads, or Ballina. For 24/7 support, contact Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800.

Milaya’s story is proof that with the right support, every young person can overcome hardship and lead the way for others.

Lennox Head Residents Push Back as Growth Outpaces Local Infrastructure

The residents of Lennox Head are demanding urgent action as rapid development in the area continues to outstrip the town’s infrastructure, services, and planning frameworks. In just one week, a petition led by local resident and business advocate Jacqui Scanlon has garnered over 750 signatures. The campaign is calling on authorities to

immediately allocate zoned light-industrial land to protect essential trades and services, many of which are at risk of being pushed out.

“We’re losing the mechanics, sparkies, tradie suppliers—and now

possibly even the vet,” Scanlon said. “These are the businesses that keep Lennox functioning.”

The situation is also creating serious concerns for local families. While a new primary school is planned for the growing Epiq Estate, there is no high school on the horizon. Preschools are struggling with long waitlists and limited public transport options are forcing some parents to turn to homeschooling.

A key fashpoint is the proposed Saltwood @ Kinvara development on Ross Lane—a 2,500home estate scheduled to be delivered over the next 15 to 20 years. Residents fear that approving such large-scale projects without matching investment in schools, services, and infrastructure will erode the community’s liveability and

character.

“This is the moment to be counted,” said Alison Vickery, organiser of an upcoming public meeting scheduled for 22 September at the Lennox Head Community Centre

The meeting will bring together residents, business owners, parents, and government representatives to share their concerns and present the petition.

Vickery, who helped lead a successful community response to youth crime in 2023 that resulted in a $1 million federal grant for Ballina Shire Council, is once again calling for proactive engagement.

“We came together once and made real change. This time, we’re asking for something just as important: that Lennox be heard before more decisions are made without us.”

Scanlon agrees. “We’re not against growth,” she said. “But we need schools, services, and infrastructure to match it. Right now, Lennox is being stretched too far.”

Community members can sign the petition in person at Lennox Head Motors, located on the corner of Byron and Ballina Streets.

The 22 September meeting begins at 7:00 PM, and all residents are welcome. Invitations have been extended to council representatives, and state and federal MPs. For more information or to get involved:

Jacqui Scanlon (Petition Lead – Industrial Land): 0408 160 026 | hippysmech@yahoo.com

Alison Vickery (Community Meeting Organiser): 0432 258 856 | alison2025@gmail.com

Milaya with Mum and grandparents

Robert Heyward

Jef Gibbs

ENTERTAINMENT

Weapons

(2025)

Review

A Chilling, Multi-Layered Horror Mystery

In Weapons (2025), director Zach Cregger delivers a masterfully unsettling horror mystery that blends supernatural terror with a gripping human drama. Set in the small, seemingly ordinary town of Maybrook, Pennsylvania, the story begins with an event as bizarre as it is disturbing—at exactly 2:17 a.m., seventeen third-grade students fee their homes and vanish without a trace. Only one child, Alex, remains.

Told through a non-linear, chapterbased narrative, the flm weaves together multiple perspectives, gradually revealing the truth behind the disappearances. The storytelling style echoes ensemble dramas like Magnolia, with each viewpoint adding another layer of intrigue and dread.

Cast and Performances

At the heart of the story is Julia Garner as Justine Gandy, a devoted teacher whose life spirals into chaos as the town turns against her. Garner delivers a nuanced performance, balancing empathy with quiet strength as suspicion closes in.

Josh Brolin plays Archer, a grief-stricken father determined to uncover the truth about the missing children. His portrayal is raw and desperate, grounding the supernatural horror in real emotional stakes.

Alden Ehrenreich is compelling as a conficted local police ofcer, torn between protecting his community and questioning its own moral compass.

The supporting cast is equally strong.

Benedict Wong adds gravitas in a pivotal role, while Austin Abrams brings an unsettling energy. Amy Madigan stands out as Gladys, a sinister great-aunt whose disturbing presence and dark magic form the supernatural core of the mystery.

Plot and Themes

As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear the disappearances are no accident. Dark forces are at play, tied to Gladys and a malignant tree that fuels her witchcraft. The children, trapped under her infuence, are not victims in the traditional horror sense— they are agents of vengeance.

Know

The climax is both brutal and cathartic. Alex, using a magical charm made from Gladys’s own hair, breaks her spell. The freed children turn on their tormentor in a violent act of retribution. Many adults perish in the chaos, yet the children survive.

A year later, the survivors begin to rebuild their lives, though the trauma lingers.

Themes of power, trauma, and justice run deep. By shifting the traditional horror dynamic—making the children the ones who fght back—Cregger crafts a fresh take on the genre.

Style and Direction

Cregger’s approach is daring. The flm moves between horror, dark comedy, and social commentary with ease. Its chapterbased structure builds suspense by forcing the audience to piece the mystery together.

The cinematography captures a deceptive calm in suburban settings, contrasted by moments of visual shock. Sound design plays a key role, using silence and sudden audio cues to heighten unease.

Interesting Facts

•Weapons is Cregger’s highly anticipated follow-up to Barbarian, and it cements his status as one of the most inventive voices in modern horror.

•The movie blends practical efects with minimal CGI, giving its supernatural elements a grounded, tactile feel.

•Amy Madigan reportedly stayed in character between takes to maintain the

unsettling presence of Gladys.

•The child actors were shielded from the full extent of the flm’s horror during production, with key scenes shot using clever editing and doubles.

Reception and Box Ofce

Weapons has been met with widespread critical acclaim. Reviewers have praised its originality, layered narrative, and strong performances—particularly Garner’s and Madigan’s. It currently holds a 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and solid scores on Metacritic.

The flm opened at number one in the U.S., earning $42.5 million domestically and $70 million worldwide in its frst weekend. For a horror flm, especially one with such a complex narrative structure, this is a remarkable achievement.

Final Verdict

Weapons is not just another horror flm— it’s a bold, emotionally charged exploration of vengeance, trauma, and the blurred line between victim and aggressor. Its unconventional storytelling and haunting imagery make it stand out in a crowded genre.

For Australian audiences, it ofers more than scares—it’s a cinematic puzzle that rewards patience and attention. Those looking for a straightforward fright-fest might fnd its structure challenging, but fans of intelligent, layered horror will be deeply satisfed.

PUZZLES

TIME FOR TRIVIA

Place the digits 1 to 9 in the blue squares, so that all 6 equations are correct. Multiplication and/or division are performed rst, in whichever order they appear –followed by addition and/or subtraction, in whichever order they appear.

1 Prestidigitation is most closely associated with what type of person?

(a) Magician (b) Dancer

(c) Architect (d) Opera singer

2 Which opera features a peasant girl named Santuzza?

(a) Pagliacci

(b) Cavalleria rusticana

(c) La Bohème (d) Madame Butterfly

3 The Canadian Prairie provinces are Alberta, Manitoba, and which other province?

(a) Richmond (b) Ontario (c) Saskatchewan (d) Quebec

4 Which of the following spirits is not used in a traditional Long Island Iced Tea? (a) Vodka (b) Whisky (c) Gin (d) Tequila 5 The Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli racetrack is located in which country? (a) Belgium (b) San Marino (c) Monaco (d) Italy

6 What are the first five words of the classic song, What a Wonderful World?

(a) I see trees of green (b) I see skies of blue (c) I see birds that fly (d) I see clouds of white

Lack of feeling

Racial segregation

Doubtful authenticity 2 CORPOREAL

Stout

Bodily

Forming a corporation

3 EQUANIMITY (a) Evenness of mind or temper (b) The state of being equal (c) A state of rest

4 RECREANT (a) Cowardly (b) Accusing in return (c) Creating anew

5 SINUOUS

(a) Wicked (b) Remarkable (c) Winding

BEST ON THE BOX

SUNDAY

SURVIVOR:

AUSTRALIA V THE WORLD

TEN, 7pm

Australian Survivor host Jonathan LaPaglia’s swan song is set to be an absolute doozy, with some of the franchise’s most legendary players taking on a ‘World’ team of previous castaways from the US, Québec, South Africa, New Zealand and Finland. From fan favourites Luke Toki (pictured) and former winners (self-crowned “Golden God” David Genat) to the game players (Sarah Tilleke) and ones we love to hate (“King” George Mladenov, Shonee Bowtell), the producers have assembled an all-star cast for LaPaglia’s farewell party. With existing alliances in tatters, can the Aussie veterans trust each other long enough to take on giants of the global game?

FRIDAY, August 15

MONDAY THE ROOKIE

SEVEN, 8.55pm

Fans of this police series have been eagerly awaiting its return, and now season seven has shores. Original rookie John (the always likeable Nathan Fillion) is back in action after taking a bullet, but is feeling every bit of his almost 50 years. Meanwhile Lucy (Melissa O’Neil, pictured) and Tim (Eric Winter) appear to be moving on from their break-up and are put in charge of a new pair of LAPD rookies – nervy Seth (Patrick Keleher) and cocky Miles (Deric Augustine) – who themselves thrown right in the deep end. With baddies Oscar (Matthew Glave) and Jason (Steve Kazee) still on the run, things soon take a high-stakes turn for the whole Mid-Wilshire Division.

WEDNESDAY SHAUN MICALLEF’S DESTRUCTION

ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (6)

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 Home Delivery. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Family Next Door. (Ml, R)

2.00 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.25 Back Roads. (R) 2.55 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 3.45 Grand Designs Transformations. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. (R) 9.55 Lady Jane Grey: Murder Of A Child Queen. (PGv, R) 11.00 Rick Steves’ Europe. (PG, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Great Australian Road Trips. (PG, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Bettany Hughes: Treasures Of Cyprus. (PGas, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. Millie Ross visits a colourful orchid show.

8.30 Professor T. (Premiere, Mav)

A criminologist at a university is persuaded by a former student turned detective to help her investigate a serial rapist.

9.15 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presenter Tom Gleeson grills four self-declared experts in a comedic quiz show.

9.50 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R) Hosted by Shaun Micallef.

10.25 ABC Late News.

10.40 Austin. (PG, R)

11.10 Silent Witness. (Ma, R)

12.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 The Good Ship Murder. (Mv)

8.25 The Royals: A History Of Scandals: Money. Suzannah Lipscomb explores royal spending.

9.25 Britain’s Most Luxurious Train Journeys: Scotland. (R) Looks at the Midland Pullman train.

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Catch Me A Killer. (Malv)

11.40 The Shelter. (Ma, R)

1.20 Romulus. (MA15+av, R) 3.15 Curious Traveller. (R)

4.15 Great Irish Interiors. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 11.35 Fizzy And Suds. 12.55pm Mecha Builders. 2.05 Paddington. 2.30 Mister Maker Around The World. 3.00 Play School. 4.10 Andy’s Global Adventures. 4.25 Mecha Builders. 5.20 Thomas And Friends. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 8.05 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.35 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.00 Robot Wars. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 The Language Of Love. 3.10 Over The Black Dot. 3.45 BBC News

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Lynne McGranger takes Joh back stage of her new theatre show TheGrandparents Club. Adam shows us how to repair the water-damaged cabin stairs. Melissa vists Peninsula Wild owers for natives.

8.30 To Be Advised.

1.30 Touching Evil. (MA15+av)

A series of random killings force Creegan to question whether or not his friend Cyril is capable of murder.

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

Three contestants go head-to-head in a test of brain power for the chance to win $1 million.

5.00 NBC Today. News and current a airs.

7TWO (62)

Sunny Megatron. 10.45 Homeland. 1.45am Somewhere Boy. 2.15 Point Blank: Gun Obsession. 3.10 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice.

Better Homes. 5.00 Bargain Hunt. 6.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 1. Sydney v Richmond. 8.00 Heathrow. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

(pictured) returns for a second season

well-known people what two beloved items they would save from their home before it’s destroyed by a hilarious and improbable disaster. This unique premise is really just a springboard for the a able Micallef to dive into his invitees’ personal lives and their most cherished possessions. This episode features two fascinating guests: the venerable Lisa McCune (who Micallef once worked with on Blue Heelers back in 1998) League Men’s star Josh Cavallo, one of the world’s only openly gay professional footballers.

(8,

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 24. Sydney Roosters v Canterbury Bulldogs. From Allianz Stadium, Sydney.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Sydney Roosters versus Canterbury Bulldogs match, with news and analysis.

10.45 MOVIE: Man On A Ledge. (2012, Mlv, R) A suicidal man distracts authorities. Sam Worthington, Elizabeth Banks.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R) Hosted by Ben Shephard.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

(82)

6.00 10 News+. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) Hosted by Neale Whitaker and Andrew Winter.

8.40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.40 The Graham Norton Show. (Mal, R) Highlights from the recent series. 10.50 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather.

11.15 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 12.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

9GO! (83) 6am Spit re. Continued. (2018, PG) 7.30 The Movie Show. 8.05 The Chaperone. (2018, PG) 10.00 Hope Springs. (2012, M) 11.55 India Sweets And Spices. (2021, M) 1.45pm Widows’ Peak. (1994, PG) 3.40 All At Sea. (2010, PG) 5.15 First Cow. (2019, PG) 7.30 T-34. (2018, M, Russian) 9.35 Sniper: The White Raven. (2022, MA15+, Russian) 11.40 Mad Heidi. (2022, MA15+) 1.25am The Frozen Ground. (2013, MA15+) 3.20 Late Programs. 5.50 It All Began When I Met You. (2013, PG,

6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Sur ng Aust. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. 12.10pm MOVIE: Everything In Between. (2022, M) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: The Birdcage. (1996, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Strange Creatures. (2024, MA15+) Midnight Seinfeld. 12.30 Pretty Little Liars. 1.30 Supernatural. 3.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Ipswich Super 440. Day 2. Highlights. 10.00 Blokesworld. 10.30 Billy The Exterminator. 11.00 American Resto. 11.30 Storage Wars. Noon American Pickers. 1.00 Pawn Stars. 1.30 Towies. 2.30 Desert Collectors. 3.30 Timbersports. 4.00 Swamp People: Serpent Invasion. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 23. Essendon v St Kilda. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 11.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm The Neighborhood. 1.30

TARGET TIME

O N L

U C G

K I N Today’s target: 14 words average 18 words good 24+ words excellent

Find words of four letters or more. Every word must include the centre letter and each letter is used once only. Find at least one nine-letter word. No colloquial or foreign words, capitalised nouns, apostrophes, hyphens. No verbs or plural words ending in ‘s’. Solution list is not exhaustive. Ref: Macquarie Dictionary

STARS & PUZZLES

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

Rambunctious Rams can appear confident on the outside but – with Saturn and Neptune transiting through your sign – the main danger at the moment is self-doubt. As celebrity chef (and birthday great) Julia Child observed: “The only real stumbling block is fear of failure.” So pick yourself up, shake yourself off, and start running your own race, Aries. Self-belief and persistence will get you where you want to go! Friday is fabulous for romance and creativity.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

Mercury finally moves forwards in your home zone, plus Venus (your ruling planet) and Jupiter link up in your neighbourhood zone. So, it’s a wonderful week for family matters and local community connections. Saturday favours ambitious dreams as you follow your true destiny. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, Madonna (who turns 67 on Saturday): “I stand for freedom of expression, doing what you believe in, and going after your dreams.”

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

The buzzword for the week is Communication, as Mercury (your patron planet) finally moves forward in your neighborhood and conversation zones. Expect increased social interaction and educational activities within your local community, but make sure you slow down and choose your words wisely (especially on Monday). Wisdom for the week is from writer and philosopher Jean-Paul Satre: “Words are more treacherous and powerful then we think.”

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

Are you making the most of lucky Venus and prosperous Jupiter both transiting through (and linking up) in your sign? For the first time in 12 years! Crab charisma is at an all-time high as you charm the cynics and dazzle the doubters with little effort on your part. So, it’s the perfect time to apply for a job, bonus or promotion; enter a competition; or call in a few old favours. Saturday is the perfect day to write down your dreams and aspirations for the future.

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

Mercury turns direct and the Sun’s also shining in Leo, so it’s time to communicate your creative ideas with extra pizzazz, dream mind-blowing dreams, and/or make connections with bohemian folk from foreign shores. But, with Uranus activating your wanderlust zone, many restless Cats will feel cooped up, housebound and a bit stir-crazy. Pull on your travelling shoes and escape on a wild weekend getaway or plan an adventurous trip for sometime soon.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

Mercury moves forward in your solitary zone, which favours meditation, contemplation, relaxation and investigation as you solve a problem or get to the bottom of a mystery. However, if you stubbornly hang onto the past and resist change, then you’re in for an unpredictable time. Strive to be more adaptable to constantly changing circumstances. Heed the wise words of social commentator Will Rogers: “Chaotic action is preferable to orderly inaction.”

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

On Tuesday, Venus (your patron planet) and Jupiter (prosperity planet) pair up your career zone. So, Lady Luck is heading your way! If you want to get ahead, then strive to work smarter, not just harder. Your natural charm and generosity will win people over. If you choose to take on a professional challenge in the coming year, you’ll find the benefits will far outweigh the difficulties. The more you focus on a cherished dream, the more likely it will come true.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

With Mercury finally moving forwards in your career zone, a professional matter or a volunteer project should gradually shift from go-slow to all systems go. If it’s too much to handle on your own, then don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from your friends, work colleagues and/or your extended peer group. Don’t battle on alone … other people are happy to pitch in and help. The weekend is wonderful for relaxing, unwinding, drifting and dreaming.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

Venus (planet of luck) and Jupiter (your ruling planet) pair up your money-from-others zone on Tuesday. So – sometime over the coming year –expect a boost to your bank balance via a pay rise, work bonus, bumper tax return, superannuation payout or extra business. Any windfall won’t last long if you don’t manage it wisely though. Mercury also moves forward (on Monday) which is good news for travel plans, long holidays and weekend getaways.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

This week the Sun and Mercury (moving forward) highlight a close relationship, shared finances or a joint venture. Secrets and issues of loyalty could also be placed under the microscope as you discover whether your trust in someone has been well-placed. And prepare for a welcome burst of Capricorn creativity and energy as Uranus links up with your ruler Saturn. Lucky opportunities could magically manifest, especially at work or via a family connection.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

Mercury moves forward in your relationship zone, and Uranus (your patron planet) makes a lovely link with Saturn. So, it’s a good week to be your creative, quirky Aquarian self – in an organised and strategic way. Innovation + improvement = success. Your motto is from birthday great, Madonna (who was born on August 16, 1958): “No matter who you are, no matter where you’ve come from, you can always change, become a better version of yourself.”

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

On Monday, Mercury turns direct in your daily routine and work zones, so plans and appointments should start to run more smoothly. Then Venus and Jupiter join up in your leisure-andpleasure zone on Tuesday. So, it’s a good week to plan a party, book a massage, attend a concert, see an exhibition, organise a night at the movies or a rowdy lunch with your favourite friends. The weekend favours relaxation, contemplation and dreaming about the future.

Moore

Folded Festival Spotlights Vast Northern NSW Talent with Stellar Local School Band Lineup

National icons Eliza and the Delusionals will headline, with fve stellar local upcoming school bands to fll the bill.

The Healthy Minds Club’s Folded Festival is thrilled to reveal its full 2025 lineup, with beloved indie rock trio Eliza and the Delusionals topping the bill. Set to take over Ballina Skatepark on Saturday, September 20, this free, all-ages event promises a vibrant mix of emerging talent and established indie rock excellence.

Joining Eliza and the Delusionals are fve standout school-aged bands from the Northern Rivers region.

The Maggots (supplied) Returning champions The Maggots from Byron Bay High School – an all-girl, four-piece alternative rock band – formed in 2021 and have been building their sound ever since their frst

As winter softly loosens its grip on the NSW Northern Rivers, the region comes alive with the rhythms of live music, community markets, and family-friendly gatherings.

Between Friday, 15 August and Friday, 22 August 2025, locals and visitors alike can enjoy an eclectic lineup that celebrates local creativity, heritage, and the region’s famed laid-back lifestyle.

Market Mornings Meet Musical Melodies — Saturday, 16 August Kick of the weekend at the Bellingen Community Market—a longstanding

music class jam session.

Members Gaia, Molly, Sia, and Amara claimed victory with their cool, raw energy at Folded 2024.

As their prize, they recorded at Byron Music Studio with a local producer and released their debut single “No Answers,” which is now available to stream.

Sia Parkinson of The Maggots said in a recent interview with Ballina Times, “It’s a nice feeling to be asked to play at these events and it was such a great opportunity to go into the Byron Music Studio.”

“That was our frst experience in a proper recording studio. We were very lucky that it was free, and it made us want to make more music.”

Also on the bill are Da Manager, a dynamic cross-school band made up of students from Kingsclif High School, Mount St Patrick College, and Lindisfarne High School. With diverse musical

Saturday tradition running from early morning into the afternoon. Wander through stalls brimming with handmade crafts, gourmet street food, and artisanal produce, while local musicians infuse the market with a warm, down-to-earth soundtrack. Although exact performance times vary, expect relaxed acoustic sets through mid-day. Keep an eye on The Echo’s North Coast Gig Guide for weekly gig listings spanning Byron to Murwillumbimby.

Mid-Week Tunes at The Levee — Wednesday to Friday, 20–22 August

backgrounds and a shared passion for performance, they bring a fresh, genreblending sound that refects the richness of youth creativity in the region. As a group, they’ve already penned several top notch rock tracks.

Representing Lismore High School, The Rays are an indie rock group that bring a fusion of infuences from Paramore to Muse, and a growing catalogue of original work. The group formed in 2023 and have since played major events such as Byron Bay Bluesfest and School Spectacular. Their original tracks capture themes of refection, missed chances, and emotional complexity.

From Ballina Coast High School, solo artist OAA will perform his unique blend of folk and reggae rooted in his Māori heritage. With a focus on storytelling and groove, his performances are known for their heartfelt connection and rhythmic

As the workweek winds down, The Levee Lounge & Bar in Lismore turns up the volume. Each evening from 4 pm until late, this intimate venue showcases rotating sets from local musicians—perfect for winding down with a wine, catching up with friends, or simply soaking up the soulful live atmosphere.

A Toast with Tunes — Saturday, 23 August (Just Beyond the Week)

Though technically just outside your specifed window, the Northern Rivers Brewers Festival on Saturday, 23 August is worthy of mention

charm, ofering a slower and more heartfelt pace for the Folded stage.

Rounding out the lineup is TenPackScrewdriver , a progressive rock and metal band from Kadina High School. With heavy rifs, shifting tempos, and a clear sense of direction, the band has built a sound that is both bold and focused. The trio play with a mature confdence and intensity, showing a level of musicianship that elevates their set.

Each of these school bands will not only have a chance to perform their tunes to a crowd, but will also be in the running to win a free day of recording in a local studio with Ham Blacket of Drop Legs. The best school-aged performer will be chosen on the day by a board of independent industry experts.

Headlining the event, Eliza and the Delusionals will bring their signature sound to Ballina after

for those extending their visit. Hosted at Sanctus Brewing Co in Townsend from 12 pm to 8 pm, this day-long celebration blends local brewery tastings, outdoor street food, and live performances by The Maintenance Men and Woodhill. At just $10 entry (kids under 18 free), it ofers a spirited blend of music, craft beer, and community energy.

Classical Crossroads — Beyond the Week (Late August)

For a more refned rhythm, mark your calendars for the Bangalow Music Festival

critical acclaim for their second album Make It Feel

Like the Garden, which debuted at #11 on the ARIA Australian Albums Chart, and a previous sold out Australian tour. With 18 million streams and nominations from triple j and Rolling Stone Australia Awards and a win from the Queensland Music Awards, the iconic trio are set to close the Folded stage.

Now in its third year, this event was created by local mental health charity

The Healthy Minds Club to spotlight the creative talents of young musicians across the Northern Rivers. Running from 12 to 6pm on Saturday, September

, traditionally held in late August. Although details for 2025 remain sparse, this annual event showcases world-class classical performances by globally acclaimed musicians—an enriching complement to the region’s more casual musical fare.

Why This Week Stands Out

What sets this week apart is the seamless blend of casual open-air markets, midweek evening gigs, and the community-spirited Brewers Festival just after your date range.

It’s a perfect stretch that

20, the festival invites families, friends, and music lovers of all ages to come along for a day of free entertainment and community spirit. In addition to the live music, the Ballina Rotary Club will be fring up a free barbecue and ofering soft drinks, while the skate bowl will remain open for anyone keen to show of their skating skills and be part of the action. This event is made possible with the support from our sponsors Harvest Estate Byron, Marcon Consultancy, POP’s (Pelicans On Posties), Cherry Street Sports Club, and Koellner Steel.

refects the diversity of the Northern Rivers—from acoustic sets amid market stalls to bold beers and vibrant bands. Planning Tips

• Stay connected: Platforms like Events on the Horizon and Northern Rivers Now ofer timely local listings for live music, markets, family events, and more.

• Extend your stay: If your schedule allows, riding into the Northern Rivers Brewers Festival on Saturday, 23 August will add a festa of favour, music, and community to your visit.

The Maggots (supplied)

Jef Gibbs

Home Deposit Hurdle: What You’ll Need to Buy in 2025

Jef Gibbs

With housing afordability remaining a central issue for many Australians, knowing how much to save for a home deposit is more important than ever. In 2025, the landscape continues to shift with rising property values in some states and growing government support for frsthome buyers. Whether you’re planning to buy in a bustling capital city or a regional hub, understanding your deposit options could be the key to getting a foot on the property ladder.

The Basics: What’s a Deposit and How Much Do You Need?

Traditionally, homebuyers are expected to put down a 20% deposit to secure a mortgage. This helps reduce the lender’s risk and avoids the need for Lenders’ Mortgage Insurance (LMI), which can add thousands to your loan. However, many Australians, especially frsthome buyers, are turning to options with smaller deposits— sometimes as low as 2%—thanks to a range of government-backed support schemes.

While the standard 20% deposit is ideal, it’s not always realistic. Let’s break down what that looks like in dollar terms based on median house prices as of June 2025:

l Sydney, NSW – Median price: $1,118,000 5% deposit: $55,900 20% deposit: $223,600

l Melbourne, VIC – $781,000 5%: $39,050 | 20%: $156,200

Guarantee, supporting regional growth and easing city pressure.

Family Home Guarantee

Designed specifcally for single parents or legal guardians, this program allows purchases with just a 2% deposit, again without LMI—opening doors for families doing it tough.

Help to Buy (Shared Equity)

Under this shared equity scheme, the government contributes up to 30% of the home’s price for existing properties or 40% for new builds, in return for an equity stake in the home. This drastically lowers the buyer’s loan burden and deposit requirement.

Expert Advice: Don’t Go It Alone

In today’s market, saving for a deposit remains a challenge, but it’s far from impossible. With property prices still rising in many areas and new support programs on ofer, aspiring homeowners have more paths to ownership than ever before. The key is knowing what you qualify for, understanding your numbers, and getting the right advice before taking the leap.

l Brisbane, QLD – $882,000 5%: $44,100 | 20%: $176,400

l Perth, WA – $779,000 5%: $38,950 | 20%: $155,800

l Adelaide, SA – $804,000 5%: $40,200 | 20%: $160,800

l Canberra, ACT – $852,000 5%: $42,600 | 20%: $170,400

l Hobart, TAS – $675,000 5%: $33,750 | 20%: $135,000

l Darwin, NT – $531,000 5%: $26,550 | 20%: $106,200

Whether you’re saving for a frst home or planning a regional move, Australia’s property landscape in 2025 ofers more fexibility—and more hope—than it has in years past.

Lower Deposit?

You’ve Got Options

If saving 20% feels out of reach, there’s good news. Several government schemes are helping Australians purchase with much smaller deposits—without the added burden of LMI.

First Home Guarantee

This initiative allows eligible

frst-home buyers to buy with as little as a 5% deposit, while the government acts as guarantor for the remaining 15%, helping you avoid LMI altogether.

Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee

Tailored for buyers looking to settle outside major urban areas, this scheme works much the same as the First Home

Kaili Watkins, Home Loan Specialist at Westpac, says that while low-deposit options can help buyers enter the market faster, it’s important to seek professional advice.

“Depending on your individual circumstances, you may be able to access a home loan with a 5% deposit or even less, especially through government schemes,” she said. “But every situation is diferent, and it’s crucial to weigh up your borrowing power, risk profle, and long-term goals.”

Buyers should also consider additional costs such as stamp duty, legal fees, and moving costs, which are not covered by the deposit and can catch some buyers of guard.

“If you are thinking of selling, please give Barb Joblin a call”

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Portugal

Jef Gibbs

Portugal enchants with its sun-kissed coastline, soulful Fado music, cobbled alleys, and centuries of maritime heritage. From the vibrant streets of Lisbon to the golden clifs of the Algarve and the vine-covered hills of the Douro Valley, Portugal ofers a captivating blend of history, food, and natural beauty. Its laid-back charm, friendly locals, and afordable prices make it one of Europe’s best-value destinations—perfect for both adventure and relaxation.

TOP 5 PLACES TO VISIT

1. Lisbon

Portugal’s capital is a colourful mix of old-world charm and contemporary fair. Ride the famous Tram 28, explore Belém Tower, and enjoy views from São Jorge Castle.

2. Porto Home of port wine, Porto is a romantic city along the Douro River. Wander the Ribeira district, tour wine cellars, and admire the striking Dom Luís I Bridge.

3. Algarve

The southern coast boasts some of Europe’s best

beaches, dramatic clifs, and sun-drenched villages like Lagos, Albufeira, and Tavira—ideal for water sports and coastal walks.

4. Sintra

A fairytale town just outside Lisbon, Sintra is dotted with palaces and lush gardens. Don’t miss Pena Palace and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira.

5. Évora

A UNESCO-listed city in the Alentejo region, Évora is rich in Roman history, Gothic churches, and traditional Portuguese charm—away from tourist crowds.

5

BEST DEALS AND HOW TO SAVE MONEY

1. Comboios de Portugal (CP) Deals Portugal’s national train company ofers discounts for early bookings and youth/senior travellers. The Intercidades trains are fast and afordable.

2. Lunch Specials (Prato do Dia)

Many restaurants ofer a “dish of the day” for €8–12, often including soup, main course, drink, and dessert.

3. Free Museum Days

Public museums are free on the frst Sunday of each month—plan ahead to visit Lisbon’s National Tile

Museum or Porto’s Soares dos Reis Museum.

4. Lisboa Card / Porto Card

Tourist passes include public transport and discounts on top attractions—worth it if you plan to explore multiple sites in a short time.

5. Use Multibanco ATMs Portugal’s ATM network ofers favourable exchange rates and no local fees. Avoid airport currency exchange booths.

5 Travel Tips

1. Bring Comfy Shoes Cities like Lisbon and Porto are full of steep hills and slippery cobblestones—good walking shoes are essential.

2. Public Transport is

Reliable

Metro, trams, and buses are clean, efcient, and punctual in major cities. Taxis are afordable, and Uber is widely used.

3. Learn a Few Phrases Portuguese is the ofcial language. A few basics like obrigado (thank you) and por favor (please) go a long way.

4. Don’t Expect Early Dinners

Restaurants typically open for dinner around 7:30–8:00 PM. Afternoon siestas are common in smaller towns.

5. Tipping is Modest Round up or leave 5–10% in restaurants. Tipping isn’t mandatory but appreciated for good service.

Currency and Budget Considerations

Portugal uses the Euro (€). It’s one of the most afordable countries in Western Europe.

Daily Budget Estimates:

l Budget traveller: €40–60

l Mid-range: €70–120

l Luxury: €150+

Card payments are common, but carry some cash for local cafes and markets. Contactless and mobile payments are widely accepted.

Best Ways to Get Around

l Trains: Great for intercity travel—fast, clean, and cheap if booked early.

l Metro and Trams: Lisbon and Porto both have extensive metro systems.

l Car Rental: Ideal for exploring rural areas like the Alentejo or hidden Algarve beaches.

l Walking: Many towns and cities are walkable— just mind the hills and stones! l Conclusion Portugal ofers a rich travel experience without the high price tag. Whether sipping wine by the Douro, sunbathing in the Algarve, or wandering Lisbon’s alleys, this is a country where every day feels both relaxed and remarkable. Portugal’s heart beats with soul, sunshine, and a warm welcome.

Accommodation: From Luxury to Budget

l Luxury Six Senses Douro Valley (5-star) – Lavish retreat overlooking vineyards and river.

Pestana Palace, Lisbon (5-star) – Opulent former palace with lush gardens.

l Mid-Range My Story Hotels, Lisbon (3–4-star) – Boutique charm in the city centre.

Moov Hotel, Porto (3star) – Modern, afordable, and central.

l Budget

Selina Hostels (Lisbon/ Porto) – Stylish and sociable, great for solo travellers. Local guesthouses and Airbnbs – Often ofer excellent value with authentic experiences.

2026 Ram 1500 TRX Set for V8‑Powered Comeback

Ram’s ultimate performance ute, the 1500 TRX, is set to make a triumphant return in early 2026, reinstating the legendary supercharged 6.2‑litre Hemi V8 at the top of its range. According to industry insiders, production will begin as soon as late January 2026, marking the frst TRX model in almost two years since the last run ended in early 2024. The comeback follows the successful reintroduction of the Hemi V8 in the standard Ram 1500 line up earlier this year. That move saw more than 10,000 orders food in within 24 hours, a clear signal to Ram that buyers still crave V8 power. Now the TRX will build on that demand, taking its place above the recently launched 1500 RHO, which is powered by a twin‑turbo inline six.

Power and Performance

While fnal fgures are yet to be confrmed, reports suggest the 2026 TRX will be more powerful than ever. The outgoing model packed

2025

702 horsepower (523kW), but the new version could exceed 720 horsepower (537kW). Some rumours even point to a potential Hellcat Redeye variant delivering 797 horsepower (594kW), with speculation of a 1,000‑horsepower halo model not entirely ruled out.

This performance focus will be bolstered by Ram’s decision to revive its Street & Racing Technology (SRT) division. The TRX will be the frst new vehicle launched under the reborn SRT brand, cementing its place as a high‑performance hero designed to challenge rivals like the Ford F‑150 Raptor R.

Aggressive Styling Updates

Visually, the new TRX will take inspiration from the refreshed 2025 Ram 1500 RHO. Expect a redesigned grille, more prominent hood scoops, updated LED lighting and a raft of TRX‑specifc bodywork enhancements that signal its of‑road and on‑road

performance intent. Inside, buyers can anticipate the latest infotainment and driver‑assist technology as well as unique trim and badging.

Market Impact

Ram is banking on the TRX’s return to further strengthen its performance credentials. In a market shifting towards electrifcation, the revival of a petrol‑powered V8 super ute may seem audacious, but demand for the Hemi V8 has proven the appetite remains strong. The TRX’s blend of muscle, refnement and of‑road capability is expected to attract both loyal enthusiasts and new buyers seeking something diferent from the growing pack of turbocharged and hybrid oferings.

By positioning the TRX above the 1500 RHO, Ram is creating a clear performance ladder within its line‑up. The RHO

Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid: Australia’s Cheapest Plug-In SUV

Jef Gibbs

Chery is making waves in the Australian SUV market with the arrival of the 2025 Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid, which is now the most afordable plug‑in hybrid SUV available in the country. Launching from July 2025, the Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid has already started deliveries and is set to shake up the competitive mid‑size SUV segment.

The Urban trim is priced at just $39,990 drive-away, while the top‑spec Ultimate trim comes in at $43,990 drive-away Both models undercut key rivals such as the BYD Sealion 6 and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV by several thousand dollars, bringing plug‑in hybrid technology within reach of more Australian families.

Performance and Efciency

The Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid combines a 1.5‑litre turbocharged petrol engine (producing 105 kW and 215 Nm) with a 150 kW/310 Nm electric motor. Together, the system ofers strong yet efcient performance, consuming as little as 1.4 L/100 km and producing just 33 g/km of CO₂ emissions Power comes from an 18.3 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery that provides

up to 93 km of pure electric range (NEDC). When used in hybrid mode, the Tiggo 7 can travel approximately 1,200 km on a full charge and a full tank of fuel. Fast charging is also supported, with the ability to charge from 30% to 80% in just 20 minutes at 40 kW DC.

Well‑Equipped Cabin

Inside, the Tiggo 7 ofers a high‑tech feel. Both trims feature twin 12.3‑inch displays with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, synthetic‑leather upholstery, a six‑speaker sound system and voice‑activated controls.

The Urban trim includes LED lighting, 18‑inch alloy wheels, roof rails, keyless entry and a six‑way powered driver’s seat. The Ultimate trim adds premium touches such as ventilated and heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof,

upgraded interior materials and a powered passenger seat, making it an appealing choice for those who want more luxury.

Exterior Styling

Externally, the Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid adopts a new diamond‑pattern grille and redesigned LED headlights that give the SUV a sharper, more modern presence. These updates refect Chery’s growing design maturity and bring it closer to mainstream competitors.

Driving Experience

On the road, the Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid impresses with a quiet cabin, smooth ride and strong efciency. Its drivetrain transitions seamlessly between electric and petrol power, and

ofers a strong balance of power and practicality, but the TRX will cater to those who want the ultimate expression of V8‑powered dominance.

What We Know So Far

l Production: Expected to commence in late January 2026.

l Engine: Supercharged 6.2‑litre Hemi V8.

l Output: Expected to exceed 720 horsepower (537kW); higher‑output variants possible.

l Branding: First model launched under revived SRT performance division.

l Styling: Shares updated design language with 2025 Ram 1500 RHO, with

overall refnement is high for the price point. However, reviewers note that the SUV is not particularly sporty. The steering can feel vague, and adaptive cruise control braking is not as polished as some rivals. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Tiggo 7 remains a comfortable and competent commuter.

Warranty and Servicing

The Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid is backed by Chery Australia’s seven‑year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, adding peace of mind for buyers. Servicing intervals are every 12 months or 15,000 km, ensuring low ongoing maintenance requirements.

Who Is It For?

The Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid is ideal for:

l Budget‑conscious buyers wanting a plug‑in hybrid without the premium price tag.

TRX‑exclusive enhancements.

Looking Ahead

Ram is yet to confrm pricing, trims and full specifcations, but anticipation is already building. The TRX will re‑enter a fercely competitive segment, facing of against the likes of Ford’s F‑150 Raptor R and Chevrolet’s Silverado ZR2.

If the rumours around output and capability prove accurate, the 2026 Ram 1500 TRX could set a new benchmark for high‑performance utes. With more power, bold styling and the pedigree of the SRT badge, Ram’s halo truck is shaping up as one of the most exciting launches of 2026.

l Urban commuters who can take advantage of the 93 km electric range.

l Families seeking a practical mid‑size SUV with plenty of standard features.

Final Verdict

The 2025 Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid is a standout option in Australia’s plug‑in hybrid market thanks to its combination of value, equipment and efciency. While it may not deliver the most engaging drive, it ofers features usually reserved for more expensive rivals at a signifcantly lower price. For buyers looking to reduce fuel costs without sacrifcing practicality, the Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid deserves serious consideration.

GenesisCare Celebrates 30 Years of Cancer Care in Tugun

Jef Gibbs

GenesisCare has marked a major milestone, celebrating 30 years of delivering world-class cancer care at its Tugun centre on the southern Gold Coast. Since opening in 1995, the centre has provided personalised, evidence-based treatment to thousands of patients from the Gold Coast, Northern NSW, and Northern Rivers regions.

Located on the John Flynn Private Hospital campus, the GenesisCare Tugun facility ofers a wide range of services including radiation therapy, Theranostics, clinical trials, allied health partnerships, and a complimentary bus service for eligible patients. Patients can also access chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery on the same campus— ensuring seamless and comprehensive cancer care close to home.

Local Member for Currumbin, The Hon.

Laura Gerber MP, attended the anniversary event and praised the team’s long-standing contribution to the region.

“It’s heartening to see such a strong and ongoing commitment to our community’s health at GenesisCare Tugun,” she said. “I applaud and thank the team on this

impressive milestone.”

Centre Leader Malissa Hayden said the centre’s longevity is a testament to the passion of its team.

“We are proud to recognise our dedicated staf, who have helped shape a model of care that places the patient at the centre,” she said. “Beyond care delivery, Tugun

has become a hands-on training hub for the next generation of oncology professionals, hosting regular student rotations in radiation therapy, nursing, and medicine.”

GenesisCare in Tugun is also a leader in clinical research, employing a dedicated Clinical Research Coordinator

to connect patients with national clinical trials that may beneft their specifc diagnosis.

Radiation Oncologist Dr David Christie, who has worked at the Tugun site since its inception, refected on the centre’s journey.

“Cancer care has evolved signifcantly in

30 years, but our mission to provide local access to advanced treatment remains unchanged,” he said. “In the past, many patients had to travel to Brisbane or Sydney for treatment. We’re proud to have reduced that burden by ofering comprehensive services closer to home.”

The Tugun centre is stafed by more than 30 local healthcare professionals, including radiation therapists, nurses, physicists, engineers, and support staf—all committed to delivering cuttingedge treatment with a compassionate, community-focused approach.

GenesisCare sees around 30,000 patients annually across 50 locations in Australia and continues to lead in the delivery of modern, integrated cancer care solutions.

To learn more about GenesisCare Tugun, visit: www.genesiscare.com/ au/our-centres/tugun-qldgold-coast

The Genesis Care team at Tugun

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

Picture this: you’ve had a long day, your emails are breeding like rabbits, and you’ve accidentally muttered something unprintable at your boss. You don’t want salad. You want comfort. You want carbs. You want the culinary equivalent of Ryan Gosling telling you you’re perfect. Enter: this Creamy French Onion Chicken Pasta Bake This dish is rich, cheesy, and has enough favour to make you forget about that awkward thing you said in a meeting three months ago that still haunts you at 3am. It’s so indulgent it should probably be illegal. And the best part? It’s stupidly easy. No Michelin stars required.

Ingredients

l 500g penne pasta (or whatever lonely pasta you fnd in the cupboard)

l 1 tbsp olive oil (bonus points if you don’t spill it on your socks)

l 500g chicken breast, diced into bite-sized chunks of joy

l 1 packet French onion soup mix (aka powdered magic)

l 1 onion, thinly sliced (crying counts as therapy)

l 2 cloves garlic, minced (double it if you’re feeling frisky)

l 300ml thickened cream (not the time for “lite”)

l 1 cup chicken stock

l 1 cup shredded mozzarella

l 1 cup shredded tasty cheese (because one cheese is for amateurs)

l 2 tbsp parsley, chopped (so you can pretend it’s healthy)

Method

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (fan-forced). Things are about to get hot.

2. Cook pasta until just underdone—soft, but with a little sass. Drain.

3. In a large pan, cook chicken in olive oil until golden.

Creamy French Onion Chicken Pasta Bake

(Comfor Food with Zero Shame)

Add onion and garlic, stirring until fragrant enough to summon hungry housemates.

4. Sprinkle in French onion soup mix, add cream and stock, and stir until saucy perfection.

5. In a baking dish, mix pasta, chicken mixture, and half the cheese. Smother with the rest of the cheese like you mean it.

6. Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden enough to be on a food magazine cover.

MTips & Leftovers

l For extra decadence, throw in crispy bacon. It’s basically mandatory.

l If the top isn’t golden, shove it under the grill for 2 minutes. Do not walk away unless you enjoy the taste of charred regret.

l Leftovers? Lol. You sweet summer child. This dish vanishes faster than your pay on payday. But on the of chance there’s some left, it reheats like a dream.

eet the Hummingbird Cake – the dessert so tropical it should come with a tiny umbrella and a warning about sand in awkward places. It’s jammed full of bananas, pineapple, and enough cream cheese frosting to make your dentist weep. Bonus: because it’s loaded with fruit, you can totally call it healthy-ish

Ingredients

l 3 bananas, overripe (aka ugly but full of favour)

l 440g canned crushed pineapple, juice included – no skimping

l 300g plain four

l 300g caster sugar (because subtlety is overrated)

1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

l 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for spice and life advice)

l 2 eggs

l 180ml vegetable oil (you need that moisture, darling)

l 1 tsp vanilla extract

l 100g pecans or walnuts, chopped – or fing them in whole, we’re not judging

Frosting

l 250g cream cheese, softened like your willpower

l 125g butter, also softened

l 250g icing sugar, sifted (or just dumped in, rebel style)

l 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method

1. Heat oven to 180°C. Line two 20cm cake tins like the domestic god/goddess you are.

2. Mix dry stuf. Chuck in bananas, pineapple, eggs, oil, vanilla. Stir until you’ve got a gloopy masterpiece.

3. Bake 35–40 mins, cool, then smother with frosting like you’re hiding evidence. Share? Absolutely not.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

• Feeder Heifers also improved, averaging 353.4c/kg , topping at 405c/ kg , or $1,237.94 to $1,738.97

• Heifers across all classes averaged 360.4c/kg , reaching 409.2c/kg , returning $1,825.15 to $2,544.90

The Warwick livestock markets experienced a week of mixed results, shaped by seasonal conditions, timing, and a noticeable draw of people and activity to the RNA Ekka. While cattle markets showed strong upward momentum, the sheep and lamb sectors eased slightly. Pork numbers were back, and poultry yardings rose, with notable demand for specialty birds. Cattle Market Summary

Despite reduced participation due to the Ekka, all major cattle categories showed frmer pricing:

• Bulls averaged 308.1c/kg , topping at 371.2c/kg , achieving returns from $1,515.20 up to $3,637.76

• Cows saw strong interest, averaging 332.1c/kg , with a top of 405c/kg , or $1,885.63 to $2,895.75

• Feeder Steers lifted, averaging 394c/ kg , peaking at 455c/kg , returning $1,679.47 to $2,181.09

• Steers averaged 383.6c/kg , with tops of 415.2c/kg , equating to $2,173.34 to $2,702.46

• Vealer Heifers averaged 373.1c/ kg , topping at 426.2c/kg , returning $833.37 to $1,148.56

• Vealer Steers achieved 442.4c/kg on average, with a top of 468.2c/kg , returning $915.45 to $1,330.41

• Yearling Heifers averaged 390.4c/kg , with a top of 420.2c/kg , returning $1,226.56 to $2,546.46

• Yearling Steers impressed, averaging 430.1c/kg and peaking at 502.2c/kg , or $1,136.19 to $1,846.75

Sheep & Lamb Report

Agents APL/McDougall & Sons yarded 1,318 head , with a dominant showing of lighter and older stock. Lambs made up approximately 70% of the yarding, with the remainder made up of mutton. The overall sale averaged $191.31/head , down $15 on the previous week.

Top Sales and Averages

• Lambs: Topped at $334 , average $223.48 ( up $2/head )

• Hoggets: Topped at $220 , average $174.69 ( down $19/head )

• Ram Lambs: Topped at $250 , average $217.53 ( up $56/head )

• Ewes: Topped at $206 , average $119.22 ( down $52/head )

• Wethers: Topped at $168 , average $164.38 ( down $10/head )

• Rams: Topped at $172 , average $144.70 ( down $5/head ) Feature Sales

• Donnybrook Farming sold Xbred lambs (64kg) to Thomas Foods for $334

• Winston McNamara sold Dorset x lambs (54kg) to Thomas Foods for $275 , and 60kg to Grants Meats for $259

• Kim Aisthorpe sold Dorper lambs (53.5kg) to Thomas Foods for $297 , and 50kg to GR Prime for $270

• Mills Ag sold multiple lines of Dorper lambs , including 48.4kg to McMahon Bros and Warwick Meats for $270 , and lighter lambs (42.8kg and 38kg) to McMahon Bros for $251 and $201 respectively.

• Sloss P/S sold shorn Merino lambs (35.7kg) with a third wool to AWN for $139 , and 30.8kg to AWN for $100

• Charles Family sold cfa Merino ewes and wethers to McIntyre Meats for $56 , and to restockers for $30–$31

• James Cowlishaw sold Merino wethers to Thomas Foods for $168

• Rubie Family sold Dorset ewes to Thomas Foods for $190 Poultry Market Yardings increased this week, with strong demand for specialty breeds:

• Ducks & Roosters: Up to $30 each

• Geese: Sold to $45

• Drakes: Up to $20

• Hens: Peaked at an impressive $75

• Bantam Pullets: Up to $62.50

• Pullets: Sold to $40 Pork Market Pork numbers declined due to wet conditions, but prices held frm:

• Boars: Up to $190

• Sows: Ranged from $170 to $385

• Gilts: Sold between $145 and $245

• Light Pork: Sold from $240 to $254

• Pork: Reached $175

• Stores: Made $164 to $200

A total yarding of 712 head went under the hammer at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) store cattle sale on Friday, attracting strong buyer competition across most categories. Quality lines of steers and

heifers met frm to slightly dearer trends, while cow and calf units continued to achieve solid returns.

Sale Highlights – Per Head

• Bulls: 1 head sold for $2,100.00.

• Cows: 22 head ranged from $350.00 to $2,125.00, averaging $1,327.32, totalling $94,240.00.

• Cows & Calves: 15 head sold from $800.00 to $2,300.00, averaging $1,862.30, for a total of $93,115.00.

• Heifers: 1 head sold for $15.00. Overall (Per Head): 39 lots topped at $2,300.00, averaging $1,540.41, with a combined value of $189,470.00.

Sale Highlights – Per Kilogram

• Cows: 1 head at 212.2c/kg, weighing 405kg, totalling $859.41.

• Heifers: 292 head from 76.2c to 454.2c/kg, averaging 385.5c/kg, returning $154.65 to $1,853.67/head.

• Steers: 413 head from 80.0c to 606.2c/kg, averaging 452.1c/kg, returning $64.00 to $2,019.29/head.

• Vealer Bulls: 6 head from 170.0c to 420.2c/kg, averaging 370.2c/kg, making $374.00 to $1,493.10/head. Overall (Per Kg): 712 head averaged 426.7c/kg, with a top price of 606.2c/ kg, generating a total gross of $2,462,189.01.

Market Commentary

Heavier steers were the standout performers, topping at 606.2c/kg and refecting sustained confdence from feeder and restocker buyers. Quality heifers reached 454.2c/kg , supported by steady orders from backgrounders.

Cow and calf units drew strong interest, with the top-priced pair making $2,300.00 . While lighter and plainer stock met more selective bidding, the overall sentiment remained positive, with spirited competition pushing the total sale gross well past $2.46 million

2nd Annual Grafton Brahman Sale

Clairvale Brahmans are offering fve PTIC registered cows/heifers. They all have calved with ease and reared good strong claves. They run well on this coastal country and have been easy to manage.

Lots, 3-5 and 7 are PTIC to registered sire

WARRAKA BRYNE

3075 who can be viewed at the sale. Lot 6 is PTIC to a Brangus bull.

Next year we look forward to presenting several Clairvale bred stud brahmans, including bulls and heifers. We welcome any questions about our offerings and further information on our lots for this year’s sale, along with future sale prospects, can be found via our Facebook page Clairvale Performance Horses and Brahmans.

Banarra Brahmans Heads

to Grafton on the 21st of August

sh ardiner of ’Banarra Brahmans’ from the lower acleay of empsey will be heading back up the Highway to rafton on Thursday ugust to conduct their second annual stud Brahman sale.

They had a great sale last year and the feedback from successful purchasers has been very promising so they are coming back again.

They will be welcoming onboard eith and m Hollis from Clairvale Brahmans’ as oint vendors to the sale.

Clairvale’ are renowned for quality cattle and their offering will not disappoint.

The Bulls are vet inspected, semen tested and ready to go out with cows.

ll the stud registered grey females will be PTIC to leading Brahman stud sires and the stud yearling heifers will be ready to oin to the bulls of your choice in spring.

The peckle Brahman cross will also be ready to oin

Banarra Brahmans’ have been producing quality Brahman Cattle as a registered stud for the last years, oining the breed society back in . Their direction and focus has been on functional cattle with temperament and carcass quality. ou would have to say they are a more earlier maturing thicker type Brahman that thrive in coastal conditions.

Grafton is a renowned area for the Brahman Breed and sh is keen to capture a small part of that market. The feedback from last year’s buyer and bidders have given them the confdence to do it all again. Banarra Brahmans’ are bringing these cattle to the sale to sell them, and like last year there will be no reserves set if you bid you will buy.

The bulls are again full of the latest genetics and will be well suited to go over British and uropean cows capturing hybrid vigour and good growth rate with the view of producing the ideal F female or that beef bred weaner for all market categories.

The cows are PTIC to leading stud sires including arraka Bryne Three platinum and arraka eece who is a full brother to Brahrock pollo H r Boswick anso .

The younger Hfrs will be suited to those that ust want to try the Brahman breed and or would like to step into the show ring for some fun.

Banarra Brahmans’ and Clairvale Brahmans’ are excited to be conducting their nd cattle sale to the rafton cattle producers. For further information, photos and videos visit the Banarra Brahmans’ Facebook page , Clairvale Performance Horses Brahmans’ Facebook Page and Farrell cCrohon tock tation gents Pty Ltd.

Clarance Valley Sale

This year’s draft will include 14 lots:

PTIC 1st calf 3yr old Heifers

2 year old unjoined Heifers

Rising 3 year old pure bred bulls

1st Cross 2 year old Speckle Park / Brahman Hfrs.

Young Ag Leaders Encouraged to Apply for 2026 RAS Rural Achiever Program

Ian Rogers

Ambitious young agricultural leaders across New South Wales are being urged to seize a life-changing opportunity with the launch of the 2026 RAS Rural Achiever Award, hosted by the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS).

This prestigious leadership and development program runs over eight days during the Sydney Royal Easter Show, ofering participants rare behind-the-scenes access to Australia’s largest agricultural event. Beyond the showgrounds, the program delivers a unique combination of personal development, networking, and exposure to key players across the agricultural sector.

At the program’s conclusion, one standout participant will be chosen to represent NSW at the National Rural Ambassador Program , a platform that propels young leaders into national agricultural leadership roles.

A Launchpad for Future Rural Leaders

James Stephens, the 2025 RAS Rural Achiever Award winner, described the experience as “transformational.”

“I didn’t expect how strong the network would be,” he said. “The people I met—from fellow Rural Achievers to RAS members and industry professionals— were incredibly supportive. The program grew my confdence, especially in public speaking and leadership situations.”

Stephens credits the program with unlocking opportunities he never

imagined, including speaking engagements and vital professional connections that have shaped his ongoing involvement in the show movement and rural leadership.

“If you’re thinking about applying—do it! It’s not about being the loudest in the room, it’s about showing up with passion and a willingness to learn,” he encouraged.

As part of his win, Stephens will now represent New South Wales at the 2025 National Rural Ambassador Award, and take part in an exclusive exchange program at the

Royal Adelaide Show Apply Now – Make

Your Mark

The RAS Rural Achiever Award is open to young people aged 20 to 30 who are actively contributing to their local community or the broader agricultural industry. Whether involved in farming, agribusiness, education, or advocacy, applicants should demonstrate passion, purpose, and potential for leadership.

Participants beneft from:

l Behind-the-scenes access to the Sydney Royal Easter Show

l Leadership and personal development workshops

l Industry networking and mentoring opportunities

l National recognition and exposure

Applications for the 2026 program are now open and close Friday, 29 August 2025

For more information or to apply, visit: www.rasnsw. com.au

You can also meet the current Rural Achievers and learn more about their journeys via Big Thinkers: the 2025 RAS Rural Achiever Award on Aussie Broadband.

ABARES Weekly Climate, Water and Agriculture Update – Week Ending 6 August 2025

Rainfall Overview

During the frst week of August, Australia experienced a signifcant weather system, with low-pressure systems delivering heavy rainfall to parts of eastern and south-western regions. Rainfall totals reached up to 200 millimetres in some areas. In cropping regions, the rainfall distribution was uneven:

l Western Australia and northern New South Wales received 5–50mm, with some areas benefting from moderate moisture.

l South Australia and southern Queensland saw 5–25mm

l Southern New South Wales remained mostly dry, raising concerns for winter crop yields after already experiencing dry conditions in June and July

Outlook for Next 8 Days

Looking ahead, forecasts show continued variability in rainfall:

l Western Australia and Queensland are expected to receive 10–50mm, which should aid crop development and soil moisture recovery

l Northern New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia are forecast to receive 5–15mm,

enough to support moderate growth

l Southern New South Wales, however, is likely to remain dry, presenting an ongoing downside production risk for both crops and pastures

Soil Moisture & Pasture Growth

l July brought above-average rainfall to South Australia and Victoria, improving topsoil and subsoil moisture levels, which is crucial for sustaining yield potential

l Despite some recovery, lower layer soil moisture remains below average to extremely low in several southern cropping zones.

l Pasture growth for the three months to July was below average across large areas of Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, and north-western and southern New South Wales, forcing graziers to either destock or rely on supplementary feeding to maintain production.

Water Storage and Allocation

l Water storage in the Murray–Darling Basin (MDB) rose by 551 GL over the week, reaching 14,471

GL, or 65% of capacity. This is 3,632 GL (20%) less than at the same time last year.

l Allocation prices in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke rose from $266/ML to $269/ML

l Trade status:

l Goulburn to Murray: Closed

l Murrumbidgee to Murray: Open

l Downstream through the Barmah Choke: Closed

Summary

While parts of the country have seen improved rainfall and moisture conditions, southern NSW remains a key area of concern, with below-average soil moisture and minimal rainfall forecast. This could continue to hinder crop yield potential and pasture production, putting pressure on producers as the season progresses. Meanwhile, water availability is down year-on-year, and allocation prices are beginning to edge upwards, refecting tightening conditions in the southern MDB.

This mixed seasonal outlook underscores the importance of timely rainfall in the weeks ahead for both crop and livestock producers across Australia.

LR Georgina Haire (Wee Waa), James Gilmour (Bukkulla), James Stephens (Gresford), Jacob Moriarty (Canowindra), Brooke Watts (Molong), Roy Elder (Wongarbon), Katherin Munn (Albury), and Tasha Hurley (Condobolin) bent down in front.

$4 Million Boost to Extend Sheep and Goat eID Tag Discount Program

The NSW Government has committed an extra $4 million to extend the Sheep and Goat eID Tag Discount Program until 31 December 2025, providing continued support to producers as the state transitions to mandatory electronic identifcation (eID) for sheep and goats.

The extension is part of the Minns Government’s broader $1 billion biosecurity strategy aimed at protecting the state’s $20 billion primary industries from pest and disease threats. The eID rollout is a key component of this strategy, enhancing livestock traceability and strengthening NSW’s preparedness and response to biosecurity risks.

From 1 January 2025, eID tags became

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed its inclusion in the Federal Government’s Economic Reform Roundtable, securing agriculture’s voice in critical national discussions on trade, risk, and reform.

NFF President David Jochinke said the organisation had worked closely with the Albanese Government to ensure that both agriculture and regional communities were represented at the highest level of economic policymaking.

“We thank the Treasurer and the Government for ensuring agriculture has a seat at the table,” Mr Jochinke said.

mandatory for all sheep and goats born from that date. Under the program, producers now receive a $0.76 discount (including GST) for each NLISaccredited white 2025 eID

“Our inclusion in the session on international risks, opportunities and trade is timely. The global landscape that has long supported our sector— through geopolitical stability, strong institutions, and consistent policy—is now under pressure.”

Mr Jochinke said Australia’s regions and agriculture are fundamental to the country’s economic strength and trade profle and must be considered as economic reforms take shape.

tag purchased, valid until the end of the year or until funds are fully used.

Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty, praised the sector’s engagement with the rollout.

“We are really pleased to see such strong uptake and support for the program since January 1,” Minister Moriarty said. “This additional funding will ensure more producers are supported during the implementation process.”

So far, around 9.8 million tags have been purchased since November 2024, with

more than 800,500 eID tags scanned in NSW saleyards during 2025.

Approximately 15.5% of all sheep and goats moving through saleyards are now equipped with eID devices.

All NSW saleyards are required to scan these devices, and producers must use eID tags for any sheep or goats born in 2025 that are being moved.

To help with the transition, the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) has delivered widespread support, including attending 895 industry events across 204

locations, ofering inperson and online training, and publishing case studies showcasing on-farm success with eID.

“This program ensures NSW producers will continue to lead the world in biosecurity safety and maintain their export premiums,” Minister Moriarty said. “We will continue working with producers, agents, saleyards and processors to implement eID in their operations.”

For more information and to subscribe to updates, visit the NSW DPIRD sheep and goat eID page:https://bit. ly/3U7Q3CK.

Trade-Exposed and Economically Vital

Agriculture is one of Australia’s most tradeexposed sectors, with over $70 billion in produce exported annually, making up more than 10% of national exports Beyond exports, the sector contributes approximately $90 billion to the national economy and directly supports around 275,000 jobs, primarily in rural and regional areas.

“But farming is more than just numbers,” Mr Jochinke said.

“It’s the backbone of regional Australia, a pillar of national prosperity, and the foundation of global food security.”

A Vision for Growth

The NFF continues

to champion its 2030 Roadmap, which sets an ambitious target of $100 billion in farmgate output by the end of the decade.

Mr Jochinke stressed

“Economic reform must go hand-in-hand with agricultural growth,” he said.

“We thank the Treasurer and the Government for ensuring agriculture has a seat at the table,” Mr Jochinke said.

“Our inclusion in the session on international risks, opportunities and trade is timely. The global landscape that has long supported our sector— through geopolitical stability, strong institutions, and consistent policy—is now under pressure.”

that for this goal to be achieved, agricultural growth must be a priority in national economic reform eforts.

“Every Australian household relies on our sector daily. We look forward to contributing to this important discussion and ensuring farmers’ voices are heard.”

The NFF’s participation reafrms its long-standing support for free and open trade, principles it has upheld across decades of policy leadership and international engagement.

NFF President David Jochinke

Ian Rogers

Ian Rogers

$4 Million Boost to Extend Sheep and Goat eID Tag Discount Program

NSW Unveils World-First mRNA Foot-andMouth Vaccine to Safeguard Livestock Industry

Ian Rogers

In a groundbreaking biosecurity milestone, the NSW Government has announced the development of the world’s frst synthetic mRNA foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccine, a vital step in protecting Australia’s $8 billion livestock industry and national food supply.

Unveiled on 4 August 2025, the vaccine is the result of an 18-month partnership between the Minns Labor Government, international biotech company Tiba Biotech, and key research institutions including the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), and the German Friedrich-Loefer Institut. The University of NSW's RNA Institute is also supporting local vaccine manufacturing.

Biosecurity

Breakthrough

The new FMD vaccine is a fully synthetic mRNAbased solution that can be produced quickly and without the use of infectious material—a major safety advancement. Importantly, it ofers stable storage at standard refrigeration and even room temperature, making it ideal for livestock applications across regional and remote Australia. Recent overseas trials

have shown promising results: vaccinated cattle did not contract FMD and did not transmit the virus to others. The vaccine is now undergoing further testing with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) for emergency approval.

Economic and Agricultural Shield

Minister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty, called the breakthrough a critical piece of the state’s $1.05 billion biosecurity plan. “If diseases like Foot and Mouth were to enter

the country it would cause major disruptions to the livestock industry and catastrophic market impacts across rural Australia,” Minister Moriarty said. “This vaccine is a powerful safeguard for our economy and our communities.”

Moriarty also highlighted the additional $100 million investment in research and development as part of a broader commitment to futureproofng agriculture through science and innovation.

Industry Welcomes the Move

Meat & Livestock

Australia Managing Director Michael Crowley described the vaccine as a proactive response to the growing biosecurity risks posed by FMD, especially given its presence in nearby regions.

“While vaccination may not necessarily be required in the event of an incursion, this research confrms the Australian livestock industry is proactive and prepared,” Crowley said.

Virologist Dr Peter Kirkland from NSW DPIRD said the vaccine could help Australia diferentiate between infected and vaccinated animals, a major beneft in the event of a biosecurity emergency, allowing a faster return to production and trade.

Seting a New Standard

With no mRNA livestock vaccine currently registered for use in Australia, this development positions NSW and Australia at the forefront of global animal health innovation. Once approved, it could transform the nation’s emergency response capabilities and secure vital export markets.

Tiba Biotech’s CFO Peter McGrath emphasised the vaccine’s versatility and innovation. “Our next-generation mRNA technology ofers longterm protection with fexible storage options— critical advantages in livestock health.”

The Minns Government’s leadership in this space signals a strong and future-facing commitment to agriculture, food security, and regional resilience.

Rural Water Services Must Be Protected Amid WaterNSW Restructure

Ian Rogers

The NSW Irrigators’ Council (NSWIC) is calling on the state government to safeguard rural water service delivery amid sweeping changes to WaterNSW, which include stafng cuts announced this week.

On Monday, WaterNSW revealed a major organisational restructure in response to ongoing fnancial pressures. While the NSWIC acknowledges the need for reform, its CEO Dr Madeleine Hartley has warned that essential services must not be sacrifced—especially for regional communities who rely heavily on WaterNSW’s operational capabilities.

“WaterNSW is responsible for managing 41 major

dams and their associated river systems across New South Wales,” Dr Hartley said. “This is critical work, and it demands skilled, experienced personnel who understand the local environment and water systems.”

Concern for Regional Capability and Local Knowledge

Dr Hartley emphasised that regional water users, including irrigators, farmers and communities, depend on WaterNSW not just for water delivery but also for water licensing, approvals, accounting and technical support.

“These services are fundamental to ensuring compliance with what is already a highly complex

set of water regulations,” she explained. “Cutting staf further—especially those based in regional areas— risks long-term damage to the efectiveness of these services.”

WaterNSW previously reduced its workforce in 2022, and the NSWIC is concerned that this latest

round of job losses could further erode local expertise.

“WaterNSW staf are often the frst point of contact for river management queries and licence matters. They’re on the ground, know the region, and understand the practical realities that communities face,” Dr Hartley said.

Pricing, Pressure and Policy Impacts

While the NSWIC has long criticised the current water pricing model in NSW, Dr Hartley said any further impact on service quality would unfairly penalise water licence holders—many of whom

are already stretched by Commonwealth water recovery programs, drought recovery and recent food events.

“Licence holders fund a signifcant share of WaterNSW’s budget, and they deserve reliable, efcient service in return,” she said.

She urged the NSW Government and WaterNSW to ensure that core capabilities in water delivery, licensing, and infrastructure management are protected as the organisation undergoes its restructure.

“Our message is simple: do not let fnancial restructuring come at the cost of regional service delivery. Retain the expertise and the relationships that communities rely on.”

L_R: Andrew McKenzie Meat Livestick Australia Peter Kirkland DPIRD Scientist Tara Moriarty NSW Minister for Agriculture Peter McGrath Tiba Biotech Head

Plant Selection and Safety in the Northern Rivers

Selecting plants for your garden in the Northern Rivers region is about more than just aesthetics. The lush subtropical climate encourages an incredible range of plant growth, but not all species are safe for children, pets, or even adults. Being informed can help you avoid potential hazards and create a thriving, family-friendly garden.

Avoid toxic species

Many common ornamental plants can be highly toxic if ingested. Oleander, angel’s trumpet, foxglove and sago palms are frequently seen in local gardens but contain compounds that can cause serious illness or even death. Pet owners should be especially cautious, as plants such as lilies, azaleas and cycads can be fatal to cats and dogs.

Before buying, it’s best to check each plant’s toxicity status through reputable sources like the NSW Department of Primary Industries.

Watch for irritants and allergens

Some plants can cause rashes or trigger allergies simply through touch or pollen exposure. Older varieties of grevilleas, for instance, are known to cause skin irritation, while rhus trees produce a sap that can result in severe dermatitis. Avoid planting these near doorways, paths or play areas where accidental contact is likely.

Opt for safer alternatives

Native species, such as lilly pilly, lomandra, and callistemon, are usually non-toxic, resilient and well-suited to the Northern Rivers climate. They also tend to require less

water and maintenance than exotic plants. Edible species like citrus trees, blueberries and culinary herbs add both value and safety to a home garden. Keep sightlines open

Tall shrubs and dense hedges can obscure views near driveways, entrances and play areas, creating potential hazards. Choose low-growing groundcovers or keep hedges pruned to maintain visibility. This is particularly important for households with children or properties with busy outdoor spaces.

Support young and heavy plants

The Northern Rivers often experiences strong winds and storms, which can cause poorly secured plants to topple. Ensure young trees are staked securely until they establish strong root

systems. Avoid planting large species with brittle branches, like jacarandas, close to fences, pathways or structures.

Seek local advice

Your local nursery, garden centre and council can be an invaluable resource when it comes to plant selection and safety. Many ofer plant identifcation services and can recommend suitable, nontoxic species for your area. Consulting a landscape designer or horticulturist can also help you plan a safe and attractive garden tailored to your property’s needs.

By prioritising safety when selecting plants, Northern Rivers residents can enjoy vibrant gardens that protect their loved ones while celebrating the region’s unique natural beauty. A little knowledge and preparation can make a lasting diference.

Rhus Trees

Callistemon

Lilly pilly

Jef Gibbs

GREEN, ANTHONY DAVID

‘Tony’

23/09/1970 - 03/08/2025 54 Years

Passed away unexpectedly on Sunday 3rd August 2025.

Formerly of Casino, late of Coffs Harbour. Much Loved Partner of Dionne Skinner. Loving Father and Father-In-Law to Veronica & Rhys, Tony & Alice, Katherine, Christopher & Rene, Clinton, Alex, Isaiah, Kyle, Breanna and Jaikyleah. Sadly Missed Grandfather to all his Grandchildren.

“Still Truckin”

Family and Friends are warmly invited to attend Anthony’s Funeral Service to be held at St.Mary’s Catholic Church, Canterbury Street Casino. Commencing at 11am on THURSDAY (14th August 2025).

Following the service the cortege will proceed to the Casino Lawn Cemetery.

Funeral Notice

In Loving Memory of PEARCE, GEORGE THOMAS

‘PUD’ 26/01/1934 ~ 08/08/2025 91 Years

Passed away peacefully at Casino. Loved Husband of Betty. Loved Father, Father-In-Law, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather of Gayle & Linsey, Graeme & Jenny, Terry & Sue, Michelle & Brendon, Craig, Brad and Alison, Dane and Amie, Shari and Adam, Eli, Cody, Gus, Darcy and Ella.

Loved Brother to Nessie and Uncle to many. Family and Friends are warmly invited to attend George’s Funeral Service to be held Graveside at the Casino Lawn Cemetery, Reynolds Road Casino. Commencing at 11am on Wednesday (20TH August 2025).

In Lieu ot fowers, donations may be made to Parkinsons Research https://neura.edu.au/parkinsons-disease

In case of weather, please consider bringing your drizabone or umbrella.

This page is dedicated to all those that have passed

must be emailed to community@heartlandmedia.com.au before 3pm Fridays

Phone numbers only, no email addresses. Get the word out about your Club, Membership, Events, etc

monthly meeting on Wednesday 20 August at the Cherry Street Sports Club commencing at 10.00 a.m. The guest speaker at this meeting will be Peter Harding, President of the Ballina Players. Regular activities include the monthly lunch on the last Friday of the month. The day at the races which had been cancelled because of a wet track has now been rescheduled for 18 August. This club is a mixed club and both men and women are invited to join us for a range of interesting social functions. Further information is available from the Secretary Brian on 0432277170.

Our Most Precious Treasure Community Kids!

• New & replacement metal roofs

• Painting of tile and metal roofs

• Roof repairs: tile and metal

• Guttering: whirly birds: mesh

• Emergency/insurance repairs

Roofing Services For Everything Roofing Phone offce on 66811793 enquiries@rooftechroofng.com.au

2/32 Southern Cross Drive, Ballina Lic 303299C www.rooftechroofng.com.au

- COMMERCIAL

Everyone is welcome to attend Alstonville Plateau Historical Society’s next general meeting on Sunday 17th August. Our guest speaker will be from the Northern Rivers Hospital at Wollongbar. The meeting will be held at 2pm at the Community Resource Centre at Crawford House Museum, 10 Wardell Road Alstonville, followed by afternoon tea.

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUMAnchor

Visit Crawford House Museum, an original farmhouse where you can see many interesting household objects which reflect family life from the beginning of the 20th century to the 1960s. There are also research facilities for information about Ballina Shire, as well as books about local history and other great merch. for sale. If you’re a support worker and you bring a client to the museum, your admission is free. And if you enjoy meeting and greeting visitors to our lovely part of the world, welcoming visitors to the museum is most rewarding. If you’re interested in joining our team of hosts for three hours a month, email us or drop in to the museum on Fridays. Crawford House Museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open on Fridays between 10am and 4pm and Sundays between 1pm and 4pm or at other times by appointment for groups.

WOLLONGBAR PROBUS CLUB

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 10am. Our next meeting is on Thursday 21st August and our Guest Speaker will be Gordon King telling the story of a little-known WW1 Hero. Visitors are welcome to attend. For information phone Keith on 66280393.

Alstonville RSL

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch meets on the second Saturday of the month, with morning tea at 10am followed by the meeting, then a light luncheon from 1200. All ex-service persons and families are welcome to attend the lunch.

Quilters Alstonville

We are called Plateau Quilters Alstonville we meet the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the Month at the RSL Hall Alstonville from 1pm until 4pm New members would be most welcome. Bonner 66298267

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 PROBUS CLUB

Children are the most precious treasure a community can possess, for in them are the promise and guarantee of the future, through our collective attention and support, we ensure a brighter future for them. Parents and community members, your involvement is vital. Years of experience, join our Lennox Head Kids group age 5 to 12 to learn about community values through project, stories and Bahá’í inspired quotes promoting Unity, harmony, and kindness. Location: CWA hall (Lennox Head cultural centre) 8 August 2025 (every Friday) to 7 November 2025 Time: 16:30 -17:30

Contact: Parvin Mansouri, 0481390767 Fee $5

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS CLUB

The Ballina Ladies Probus Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:00 am at the Ballina RSL Club. We currently have vacancies and warmly welcome new members and visitors to join us for our meetings, outings, and events – all centred around fun, fellowship, and friendship. We are now eagerly looking forward to our upcoming trip on 20th August to the Hare Krishna Farm and Vedic Yoga Sanctuary, nestled in the beautiful foothills of Mount Warning. The day will include a guided tour of the farm, a visit to the temple, a delicious lunch, and the chance to learn more about life on the farm and the Vedic lifestyle. For more information about our club or upcoming activities, please contact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470.

Ballina Photography Club meets on the first Thursday of the month at Northlakes Community Centre, 1 Mulloway Place, Ballina from 6pm to 9pm.We are currently looking for new members and visitors are always welcome. We are a group of enthusiastic photographers who live in and around Ballina. Members share a common interest in photography and have monthly outings to take photos and share images at meetings. Please contact our President Lyn on 0412 758 697 Ballina Meals on Wheels Knitting and Crochet for Charity Group run by Ballina Meals on Wheels. Group held Monday mornings in Ballina and open to people who are 65years and older. $5 includes morning tea. Call Kristen on Ph: 0419 679719 for more information. ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW HOBBY??? COME AND JOIN THE HEADLINERS CHORUS We are an all-female group of all ages who love to sing “Acappella” in 4-part Barbershop harmony. We are well known in the Northern Rivers community and would love you to join us. Come along to a rehearsal on Monday nights from 7pm and for more information see our website or enquire to Tracey Ezzy on 0438 446 809

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 Tuesday of every month at the Cherry Street Sports Club. Social gathering at 5, for a 5.30 start. Ph: Rosie 0438401716

BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB

Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cupper 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 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.

EMBROIDERERS GROUP

Meetings are 9.30am-1.30pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month. 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.

THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA NSW Branch

ALSTONVILLE SUB-BRANCH

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. Alston suppliers and ranch 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

PROBUS CLUB OF BALLINA WATERS

The Probus Club of Ballina Waters will hold its next

Social play every Monday 9am to 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 on Fri am times 9am - 11:30. 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 Coastal Quilters

We meet at the North Lakes Community Hall in Whiting Way, Ballina on a Wednesday twice a month from 9 am to 2 pm.

The group gives opportunities for friendship, support, and socialisation. and to celebrate our creative achievements in the area of quilting and related stitchery. We encourage our members to seek and share knowledge of their skills. New members would be most welcome. The cost is $5 per session Georgia 66876834

BALLINA EVENING VIEW CLUB

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 co ee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take

away meals available. Held at the Ballina Presbyterian Hall Corner of Cherry & Crane St Ballina 10AM TO 12PM 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 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 di erent? 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.

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 Day out to Outback Spectacular we are taking a bus trip on 26th October Sunday up back on the same day. Lunch provided and bus fare all in the one price. If you would like to come along, book a seat, call 0418 264 48

CASINO COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB INC

Our August social will be held upstairs at the Casino RSM Club

On Sunday 17th from 10.00am - 3pm everyone is welcome

Come along and enjoy some great country music and take advantage of the meals & drinks o ered by the RSM Club. New Artists are always Welcome. Free entry, Ra les More Info contact Carole 0438641500

CWA Casino Day

Our next meeting is at the Casino Community Centre 9.00am Thursday 21st August (3rd Thursday of the month). The Land Cookery entry for July is a plain butter cake and Microwave strawberry Jam. All cookery/recipe enquiries -Ellie Maloney 0421595398. Everyone is welcome, come and have a cuppa, meet new people and see what we are doing in our community. Enquires Margaret Good 66621746, Jane Flick 0427 707 669.

CASINO SENIOR CITIZENS

On 6th September we will be conducting a bus trip to the Alpaca Farm at Southgate. Morning Tea at the farm and then o to the Lawrence Hotel for lunch. For any enquiries please contact Jan Danaher on 0414625680

CASINO CHARITY CASH BINGO

if you would like to come along and join us each at Casino RSM Club each Thursday mornings 10.00an or Thursday evenings 7.00pm, you are most welcome! Great cash prizes! For any enquiries please don’t hesitate to contact Jan Danaher on 0414625680.

CWA CASINO EVENING BRANCH

We meet on the first Thursday of the month at 6pm at the Uniting Church Hall, Canterbury Street, Casino. Our aim is to improve the lives of women and families, especially in rural areas, while having fun in the process. We are also involved in local and regional social issues, policy, and decision-making. We also do handicrafts, cooking and social outings. Join us for a cup of tea and discover the work we do and the fun we have. Contact Carolyn 0403699055 or Jane 0419172019 for further information.

Line dance

Line dance classes in Casino at St Marks Hall beginners welcome 5pm

every Monday first 2 classes free. Info call or SMS Lorraine 0418264489

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN LEARNING to KNIT, SEW or CROCHET We are looking for interested people who would like to join a class to learn Through the School Holidays both Adults and Children are welcome Starting 6th Jan 2025 Classes will be organised once we have enough interested people Call Margaret 0488 245 029 or Jacqui 0419 404 216 to express your interest and get more information

CASINO MEALS ON WHEELS

Volunteers needed Our delivery runs are Mon-Fri Casino Meals are desperately needing Volunteers, to contact the o ice on 66621217. Volunteering once a month for 1hour or so

CASINO COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am-1.30pm. Contact 66626423

CASINO & DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY GROUP INCW 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

Cassino Gallery Inc.

148 Barker St. Casino. Open Thursday to Saturday 10am to 3pm during exhibitions. Regular exhibitions, workshops, classes, and some markets during the year. Contacts Ralph 0418 485 770, Laszlo 6662 1943, Meg 0435 111 463. Artists, professional/amateur welcome to enquire about exhibiting their work at the Gallery.

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 & District Orchid Society Meet the 4th Thursday each month. At St Marks Anglican Hall @ 6:30pm

CASINO MINI RAIL

Every Sunday we are now open from 9.00am to 2.30pm every Sunday (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 Gri ins, 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

CASINO AA MEETING – ID MEETING is held every Tuesday 12:00-1:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church, corner of West & Canterbury Streets Casino. Newcomers welcome. Contact George 0427 133 372.

CASINO AA WOMEN’S MEETINGS

Held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month, 12 –1.30pm at the Casino Baptist Church House, 137 Canterbury St, Casino. Contact Liz 0427133370.

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. Denise Green 0448014682

LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCI-

ATION

Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.

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.

Eltham

ELTHAM MASONIC LODGE - The Eltham Masonic Lodge welcomes all masons, to attend their monthly meetings, which are held on the fourth Tuesday, each month at the Eltham Ma-

sonic Centre. The meetings commence at 7.30 pm. If you are not a mason and are interested in joining Freemasonry, for more information please visit our website or phone 0416530456

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD PARKINSONS SUPPORT GROUP

Evans Head Parkinson’s Support Group will next meet at Evans Head Thyme Lifestyle Village Great room in the Community Hall, 74 Currajong St, Evans Head at 10 am to 12 noon on the 28th of August. We are excited to announce that our two guests’ speakers will be local radio personality, Nora Vidler, who will entertain us with some memories of her life and Parkinson’s Specialist Nurse, Rebecca Manners. Rebecca will discuss the advanced therapy of Deep Brain Stimulation. All members of the Parkinson’s community, family and friends are most welcome to attend. If time permits, the Caregiver’s group, led by Ivonne Mace will also meet in an adjoining room. Tea and co ee and a small snack are available for a gold coin donation. For further information, contact Di on 0423941119

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP Meet every Tuesday 9am-12noonin 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.

The Rotary Club of Evans Head Markets held on the Last Saturday of the month held at Cribb Reserve opposite Illawong Hotel at 8am - 1pm. A vast variety of stores from clothes, candle, Honey Photographs, books, and Organic Vegetables along with Rotary Bacon & Egg Rolls

Rotary Evans Rotary Evans Head holds meeting the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month 5.30pm at Evans Head RSL downstairs in remembrance room. New members warmly welcomed. Cont. Sue 0438853921

EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon. New members welcome. More info 0419 753 579

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 0401493316.

GOONELLABAH

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 9.00am-1.00pm

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 finish at midday. For further information, Liz 0451 020 241

GRAFTON

GRAFTON AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP

Grafton Al-Anon Family Group hold their meetings weekly on Tuesdays at 12am - 1.30pm at the Salvation Army Hall, 91-93 Oliver Street, Grafton. Meetings are confidential. The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives of Alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery. Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization, or institution; does not engage in any controversy neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is self-supporting through its own voluntary contributions. Al-Anon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families of alcoholics and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholic. For further information or to talk to a member in confidence call 1300 252 666

Grafton CWA Centenary in 2026

Grafton CWA will be celebrating its centenary in 2026. We have started putting together a centenary cookbook with some of our favourite recipes and would love to include some recipes from former members and their families- perhaps family recipes that have been passed down for a few generations, with a piece of information or photo. If you have any recipes that you think are suitable, please could you contact Lesley McFarlane ph. 66445442 or Sharron Davison ph 0409363248. Please make sure that they are original recipes. We will also need help from members of the community closer to the time, in order to be able to display information and photos of our 100 years. We would like to have a large display highlighting the contribution made by Grafton CWA branch to the local community, and there is plenty of time to start looking for old photos, old newspaper articles, Grafton CWA memorabilia or anything at all that could be of interestwe will put out a request for them nearer the date when we should be back in our CWA Rooms and have access to storage. Meetings of Grafton CWA are held on the 2nd Friday of each month at GDSC, starting with morning tea at 9.30am and meeting at 10am. Handicraft mornings are held on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month- 9.30am, at the Salvation Army Hall, Oliver St. Bring along any type of craft and enjoy meeting other people with similar interests.

GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Perhaps it’s time to find 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 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 Chris 0400490691 or Dot on 66423248 or 0477213017

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, motivated guest speaker & at the same time you will help disadvantaged children. Please phone Helen at 6642 3867 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, have some fun & you will be helping others as well. See you there!

CLARENCE RIVER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Clarence River Historical SocietySchae er House Museum. 190 Fitzroy Street Grafton. 2460. Phone 0266425212.We are welcoming many visitors through the museum, often from interstate and on bus trips, not only to see our wonderful collection of artefacts gathered over 90 years but also to research family history and/or places of interest in the Valley. Research Room hours are from 9 to 3 Tuesday to Thursday and Museum hours are from1 to 4 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other times can be arranged. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children. If you would like to become a member of our Society and receive our interesting newsletters contact the Secretary, Robyn. Membership fees are $27 yearly.

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 0414794380

PROBUS CLUB OF HASTINGS POINT

- The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at Hastings Point Tricare resident’s lounge, on 3rd Tuesday each month, commencing with a guest speaker at 10am. Retirees and seniors

are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president Di Mills 044 732 5387 for more information.

KINGSCLIFF

KINGSCLIFF 500 CARD CLUB

Kingscli 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club New players WELCOME

Contact: GARY 0499869992

Kingscli Probus Club

First Wednesday of the month, 10am to 12 noon in the function room of Kingscli Bowls Club. We have an interesting guest speaker each month plus bus trips to various points on the map each third Wednesday of the month. Retirees and seniors are most welcome to join us in this happy social group. Ph Marlene 0428323736

KYOGLE

BORDER RANGES RSL DAY CLUB

The Kyogle Border Ranges RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Kyogle Seniors Centre, 3 Bloore St, Kyogle, from 10am to 2pm.Cost $10, includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We welcome Volunteers and Members, if you are in need of some Company, you are welcome to attend. Come along and have some fun. Contact Oriel 0427245324.

KYOGLE WRITERS GROUP

Kyogle Writers Group meets on the last Saturday of each month and we welcome newcomers. We meet at the Roxy Lane back. entrance to the Kyogle Memorial Institute (Supper Room). Our aim is to provide support and encouragement for those new to writing, as well as more experienced writers. We practice many genres of writing poetry, memoir, and journaling to name a few. Morning tea at 9.30am is followed by our meeting from 10.00am till 12.00 pm. Throughout the year we have planned some wonderful writing workshops facilitated by local authors. For further information contact Vince on 0459 574179 or Susan on 0414 958245.

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 o er. 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.

KYOGLE BAZAAR

Fourth Saturday of every month. See Kyogle Bazaar on social media for all the details or call 0459512249.

LENNOX HEAD

Community Kids group

Join our Community Kids group 5-12yrs To Learn about community values though art and craft projects, stories, and Baha’i inspired poems promoting harmony, unity and kindness CWA hall behind Lennox Head Cultural Centre 4.30-5.30 Friday 22 August onwards Fee/booking $5 please text Parvin 0481 390 767 Kid/s names Parent participation recommended

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’: 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 first 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 first Thursday of each month. Visitors are welcome, also retired, or semi-retired people wishing to join our non-service club to hear interest-

ing guest speakers and to join in trips and outings are invited along. Ph: June Zentveld on 66871004

LISMORE

Lismore Parkinsonism Support GroupLismore Parkinsonism Support Group, for all Parkinson related disorders. We meet every third Friday of the month. Next group Meeting is 15th of August Commences at 10am to 12pm at the South Lismore Bowls Club, 25 Wilson Street South Lismore. New members always welcomed. Any inquiries contact Marie 0448871290

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

Al-Anon o ers help and hope for family and friends of alcoholics. If someone in your family has a drinking problem, you can see what it’s doing to them. But can you see what it’s doing to YOU? For information and help call 1300 ALANON (1300 252 666). Al-Anon Family Groups meet regularly across Australia

MONDAY 11:00am - 12.30 pm ILUKACWA Hall (behind the Iluka Museum), 2 Charles St. TUESDAY 12.00 - 1.30 pm GRAFTON - Hall 2, Salvation Army, 91-93 Oliver St. 1:00 - 2.30 pm LISMORE “The Studio”, adjacent to 14 Pleasant St, Goonellabah & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) (enter at rear of car park, cnr Pleasant & Fischer Sts) WEDNESDAY 6.30 - 8:00 pm BALLINA – Anglican Church, 24 Burnet St & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) THURSDAY 5:00 - 6:00 pm (with Alateen) TWEED HEADS Anglican Church, 13 Powell St or by phone: 4022 9113, code 5771881# FRIDAY The Bangalow meeting meets in person on the FIRST and THIRD FRIDAY of the month at 1.00 - 2.30 pm at 17 Station St, Bangalow, (Bangalow Uniting Church, parking next to the Church.

SUNDAY 4:00 pm CHINDERAH Seventh Day Adventist Church, 83 Phillip St. LISMORE CWA SUNDAY AUG 17th LISMORE CWA will have a stall at the Lismore City Bowlo from 10am – Drop by our stall for some early Christmas Gift shopping, yummy treats & beautiful Craft.We once again would be thrilled to hear from anyone interested in becoming a Member of the Lismore CWA Branch sessions each Tuesday from 10:30am. for Membership enquiries call Helen Dargin on 0438 828 619 or for Craft call Vicki Boyle on 0437 465 642.

LISMORE CROQUET CLUB Become a NEW Member for information call PH: 02 6622 6030 & leave a message with your contact details: Thank you. Mondays: 8.30 - 10.30am onwards “unless a ected by weather”. Croquet Practice for members with Phyllis, call or txt to confirm. M: 0429122353.Wednesdays: 8.30 - 11am Ricochet Croquet. Thursdays: 8.30am Golf Croquet. Thursday 7th August: 11am - Monthly General Meeting followed by the Annual General Meeting (Members only). Friday: Evening Socials 3.30pm – Each Friday for Members and their Invited guests, (cancellation ONLY if raining). Contact Jan to confirm, call 0423322064

Lismore Garden Club meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the East Lismore Bowling Club, commencing at 1pm. The Club has guest speakers, visits to members’ gardens and enjoy a morning tea and friendship whilst taking in the beautiful gardens. Day trips away are also on the agenda from time to time. There is the opportunity to display something special such as a particular flower or produce each month. New members are most welcome. For further information, contact the Secretary, phone 0416 281 365.

AA MEETINGS

Lismore RED DOVE AA Meetings, Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday 12 Noon and Sundays 10.30am. Upstairs in The Uniting Church, cnr of Keen St & Woodlark St Lismore. Disability lifts available. Newcomers welcome.

LISMORE LIBRARY

Library Afterschool

Lismore Children’s Library is launching a new program of after-school activities called Library Afterschool. This term, we invite local children to get involved in PAPERCRAFT and LEGO activities. All sessions will be fun, free, low-key and inclusive, facilitated by your friendly Lismore Children’s Library sta PAPERCRAFT 3.30pm-5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, first and third Tuesday of the month.Papercraft will include learning to draw, making origami and scissor-and-glue crafts. LEGO 3.30pm5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, second and fourth Friday of the month Explore our excellent LEGO collection. Alternating themed and free-play sessions.The Northern Rivers Lodge No. 77 meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (except in January) at the

Lismore Masonic Centre, 111 Magellan Street Lismore. We welcome all Masons to an enjoyable and entertaining evening. Inquiries 0412665674

LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS

You are invited to join, LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS. We meet on Mondays at the Lismore Uniting Church, Red Dove, Hall 9.30am - 12.30pm. We do Patchwork, Quilting & all Crafts. We also have night group, who meet at McLean Ridges Hall, Monday evenings, 5.30pm - 9pm. Cost is $30 for the year & $5 each Monday. Looking forward to seeing you. Enquiries to Margaret Boxsell 0427141425

LISMORE LIONS CLUB

Please save your used stamps to raise funds for The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation. Stamps are collected & forwarded on to be sorted & sold at Auction, to raise money for Children’s Mobility contact Margaret Boxsell on 0427141425

Lismore City Bowling

Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday morning 10 am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Phone 66 21 5991.

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 MEN & COMMUNITY SHED

President: Mr Bob Greig 0404860504 publicity o icer Don Abrahams 0437576837

Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday

9.00am – 3.00pm We are a community based non-profit 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 flatpack, 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/co ee 15 Industry Drive East Lismore

LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC.

City of Lismore Orchid Society Inc.

Meetings are now at the Lismore Show Ground, In Norms Kitchen under the Members Grandstand. Alexandra Parade, North Lismore. NSW 2480 Meeting Date; the first Saturday of the month

Meeting Time: 9:30am display plants set up, 10:00am meeting starts with a cuppa after. Contact President Mr. Steven Muldoon 0427789773

Orchid meeting involves the sharing of information, knowledge and friendship. All welcome. Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday Morning 10am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Ph 6621 5991

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. (o Bruxner Hwy) Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug) Contac: Kim: 0423935060, Linda: 0419489987

LISMORE TARGET RIFLE CLUB for .22 calibre rifles, meets Wed nights from 6.00pm (setup time) & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 12.30pm (setup time). Air rifle shooting for .22 & 177 air rifles 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 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

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 Roslyn on 0437606674 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 di erence 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 Red Dove Café 80 Keen st Lismore. Join us please. Ph: 0435990919

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 Red Dove at Lismore Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601

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. Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed. ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm-8:15pm. If you wish to attend

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.

MCLEANS RIDGES

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. Co ee, tea, milk provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.

MURWILLUMBAH

COMMUNITY 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

Alcoholics Anonymous: Is drinking costing you more than money? AA works and is very active in Pottsville. We meet every Thursday 7pm at St Marks 15A Coronation Ave Pottsville and local contact 1800 423 431 or 04019 45671

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.

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 first Wednesday of the Month. Visitors and new members are very welcome.

TWEED PATCHWORK GROUP

Meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at South Tweed Community Centre from 9-1pm at 18 He ron 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 DAY VIEW CLUB VIEW as in Voice, Interests, Education of Women (Not many people are aware of what ‘VIEW’ club stands for!) AND NOT ONLY IN NAME: We are a group of ladies who care what will become of our youth! Our heritage – Their heritage – It is sad but true that many of our young people have no direction in their lives. Every morning, we wake to the news that violence has occurred overnight in what was once considered a safe neighbourhood. How do these o ending children/ youth feel the next morning knowing they have caused so much heartache - is this why we also hear of youth harming themselves so they can spread the pain? So, this is where VIEW Clubs and other similar clubs are starting from the bottom of the ladder by providing much needed funds to educate our youngsters so they will WANT to become the very best person they can not only in education but in their community and being proud of themselves and giving their parents hope for their child’s future. We at TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB PROVIDE THE NECESSARY FUNDS to educate just 7 of these children. We know not where they come from, but someone in their community has contacted THE SMITH FAMILY and they in turn contact VIEW CLUBS OF AUSTRALIA who anonymously contact a VIEW Club who in turn take over the responsibility for these worthy children’s fees and so year after year their tertiary fees are paid. These fees are raised by VIEW Club members who attend meetings, listen to interesting guest speakers, and regularly have days out at each other’s homes –so FUN and a tremendous satisfaction of knowing we are helping our future generation. More information can be gleaned by contacting our President Kathie on 0407709629.

WOLLONGBAR

WOLLONGBAR PROBUS CLUB

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 10am. Our next meeting is on Thursday 21st August and our Guest Speaker will be Gordon King telling the story of a

little-known WW1 Hero. Visitors are welcome to attend. For information phone Keith on 66280393.

YAMBA

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

NORTHERN RIVES MUSTANGS

If you own a Ford Mustang and would like to do monthly drives with other members for more information, contact John 0404 884 192

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-profit 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 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

ALL AREAS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS If you’re looking for help to stop drinking, you can reach out to Alcoholics Anonymous 24 hours a day. Our phone line is always answered by someone who’s been where you are – an alcoholic in recovery. We understand the challengers and we know we’re the right people to help you. You can call AA anytime on 1300 22 22 22.

AnchorConnecting the Community in July 2025 Connect You Too has been busy helping the community get out and about during July 2025.In July 2025, we did a total of 2,738 trips with a total of 92,298 service kms for 526 customers. Our popular destinations included 35 trips to Ballina; 143 trips to Co s Harbour; 7 trips to the Gold Coast; 888 trips to Grafton; 167 trips to Lismore and 305 trips to the Yamba/ Maclean area. We managed to get the community to 1,315 Specialist and GP appointments; 33 Hospital visits (Day Surgery drop o /pick-up); 422 social trips & 764 shopping trips. In July, our social trips travelled to Glenreagh for lunch at the Golden Dog Hotel. 48 customers enjoyed this outing. This month we are visiting Summerland Antiques before having lunch at the Ballina RSL.Our monthly shoppers visited Lismore in July and are due to visit Co s Harbour this month. In July 2025, our fortnightly shopping buses to Grafton Shopping world had travelers from Glenreagh (11); Brooms Head (18); Iluka (27); Wooli (12) and Yamba/Maclean (5).We also transported 73 customers from Malabugilmah and Baryulgil into Grafton for medical and shopping services during July 2025 Our Clarence Meals service delivered 2195 meals,444 desserts and 98 soups during July 2025. We were able to do welfare checks, have a quick chat and help our customers see a friendly face. Clarence Meals provides delivered meals to Iluka, Maclean and Yamba and surrounds from suppliers including Gourmet Meals, Lite n’ Easy and Meals on Wheels Grafton. For more information call 6646 6742.If you need help with transport or meals, call Connect You Too at Townsend on 6645 3200 to see if you qualify for any subsidies or assistance.

SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR OPEN DAY

Everyone is invited to Connect You Too’s “Around the World” Safari Open Day on Wednesday 17th September between 10am and 1pm. There will be plenty of activities, displays, games, giveaways, food and music for everyone to enjoy. We are o ering free transport to our open day too! Call to book your seat on 6645 3200.

WEATHER

FORECAST

Northern Rivers District:

Mostly sunny morning. Chance of morning fog inland. Medium chance of showers, most likely afternoon. Light winds southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h afternoon then light evening. Thursday. Partly cloudy. Chance of morning fog inland. Medium chance of showers, most likely morning and afternoon. Light winds southerly 15 to 25 km/h morning then light evening.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. Areas of morning frost on and west of the ranges. Chance of morning fog. Slight chance of a shower on and east of the ranges. Light winds.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Chance of morning fog. Areas of morning frost on and west of the ranges. Slight chance of a shower, most likely morning and afternoon. Light winds southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h morning then light evening.

New South Wales:

Isolated showers about central and northern parts of the coast and adjacent ranges. Chance of showers in the south. Dry and sunny elsewhere. Patchy morning fog about the ranges and in the far southwest. Patchy morning frost about the ranges and adjacent slopes as well as the central plains. Daytime temperatures near average, tending slightly below average along the northeast. Winds south to southeasterly west of the ranges. Winds southwesterly to southeasterly about the northern and central parts of the coast. Winds northwesterly about the southern part of the coast, tending south to southeasterly later in the day.

Thursday. Isolated showers about the central and northern coast and adjacent ranges, tending scattered about the northeast. Dry and sunny elsewhere. Areas of fog about the ranges, slopes and southern inland. Patchy frost about the ranges, slopes and into areas of the western plains. Daytime temperatures generally near average, with areas about the southern ranges tending slight above average, and slightly below average in the northeast. Winds south

to southeasterly, fresh and gusty along the coast. Winds tending to a light north to northwesterly about the far southwest into the evening.

Byron Coast: Winds: South to southeasterly 10 to 15 knots decreasing to below 10 knots evening. Seas: Below 1m. 1st Swell: Easterly 1 to 1.5m. 2nd Swell: Southerly around 1m. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers.

Coffs Coast: Winds: Southerly 10 to 15 knots. Seas: Below 1m. 1st Swell: Easterly around 1m, increasing to 1 to 1.5m morning. 2nd Swell: Southerly around 1m. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: South to southeasterly 10 to 15 knots decreasing to about 10 knots afternoon. Seas: Below 1m. Swell: Easterly around 1m inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5m offshore. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers.

Junior Footballers supporting Red Nose Day

Samantha Elley

The rain held of Saturday week ago for the Evans Head Junior Bombers Rugby League teams, so they could get their red noses on to support research into Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Organiser of the day, Kirralee Strong said there was plenty of support for such a worthy cause.

“We wanted a fundraiser to get focused on,” she said.

“A few families in our club have experienced SIDS so it was something we wanted to raise awareness of.

“The money doesn’t just go into research but also to support the doctors and families dealing with it.”

The day included a bake sale, a jumping castle and the regular barbeque and was well manned by the U13 girls team who had a bye, along with at least 40 other volunteers throughout the day.

“They were great volunteers and we had amazing help from all the parents who baked,” said Kirralee.

“We got about 40 prizes from local businesses as well.”

The club managed to raise $3,793.95 overall and with generous donations, such as from the Northern Rivers Jumping Castles, who donated the castle for the day, that added to the large total.

“It would be good for this to become an annual event,” said Kirralee.

About SIDS

SIDS is the sudden and unexpected death of an infant under one year of age with an onset of a fatal episode occurring during sleep, that remains unexplained after a thorough investigation, including performance of a complete autopsy and review of the circumstances of death and the clinical history.

Red Nose Day, which will ofcially be held this year on August 28, is the fundraiser for SIDS Australia and over the years has raised over $18 million for vital research, saving 12,069 babies and reducing sudden infant deaths by 80%.

WEEKLY SPORTS RESULTS

BALLINA MAHJONG

– FRIDAY 8 AUGUST

2025

What a fantastic afternoon of tiles, tactics, and triumphs at the Ballina Bridge Club! Taking out frst place was the ever-sharp Carol Meyer, with Pauline Kearney hot on her heels in second, and Gail McDonagh claiming a well-earned third. The top table was packed with talent— Gladys D’Anna in fourth, Jan Boardman in ffth, and Pauline Bolte right behind in sixth. Rounding out the top ten were Linda Lloyd, Barbara Ellan, Sally Lowry, and Lynda Lovett—each playing with style and precision!

From Jan Small to Kim Higgins, the competition was ferce right down the board, with every player adding their own fair to the game. Big kudos to all 25 participants— Ballina Mahjong is alive and thriving! Remember, games are

played Fridays at 12:15 for a 12:30 start. New challengers welcome— call Shirley on 0423 384 647 and get in on the action!

CASINO BOWLS

– WEDNESDAY 6

AUGUST <strong It was a cracker of a morning on the greens at the RSM Club! In a match of skill and strategy, Graeme Askew, Jan Dwyer, and Helen Lavelle claimed victory over Carmel Doyle, Julie Creighton, and Mary Mead. Not to be outdone, Janine Robards, Raelene Skirrey, and Annette James secured their own win against Denise Grice, Col Humphreys, and Denise Skinner

The sun was shining, the bowls were rolling true, and the camaraderie was top-notch. New members are always welcome—join us Wednesdays from 9.00am and be part of the winning smiles!

CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB –

SPORTS RESULTS

The mallets were swinging and the competition was tight!

In Association Croquet, Lance Turner powered through for a 21–14 win over David Scott, while Bev Bill and Gloria Drew & Peter Hume fnished in a thrilling 13–13 deadlock.

In the Australian Ricochet Open Doubles , the dynamic duo O. Dickinson & K. Beard took top honours, with R. Chapman & T. Woodley close behind.

The singles saw O. Dickinson claim another frst place, proving unstoppable this week.

Monthly Badge

Winners—J. Huxley, M. Rennie, R. Poynting, G. Drew, H. Spearing, B. Wellings, P. Scott, and J. Doust—take a bow! Your skill and sportsmanship keep the club buzzing!

CORAKI VETERANS

GOLF – THURSDAY AUGUST MONTHLY

MEDAL

It was a brilliant

turnout with 54 golfers hitting the fairways for the August Monthly Medal! A. Pilling played a blinder to take the medal and also topped the putting comp, while vets’ honours went to D. Vagne, with M. Bruggy and W. Swindle in hot pursuit.

Nearest the pins were sharp-shooters R. Bolger (3rd/12th) and D. Bullock (6th/15th). And let’s not forget the chicken/ball winners list—it was a long one, with names like D. Bullock, S. Dawson, S. McDonald, R. Mackay, and more making the cut.

The buzz is building for this Thursday, 14 August, as the vets’ championships kick of—four rounds of stableford with the best three scores to count.

Good golfng to all!

Have a local sports or community group you’d like featured in next week’s newsletter? Let us know!

Rebels go down swinging

By Tim Howard

A spirited South Grafton Rebels performance in their fnal game for 2025 will have given supporters some heart after a punishing fnal month of the season.

The Rebels went down 28-20 to the Cofs Harbour Comets at McKittrick Park but had their supporters hoping for a miracle when they briefy hit the lead midway through the second half.

Sadly, the savage injury toll that has decimated the club in the past six weeks stopped the Rebels from pushing home the advantage, and the Comets were able to seal the deal with a couple of late tries.

Several of the under-18s backed up in the reserves-grade game and then took the feld for frst grade.

Club president Brendan Breitnauer couldn’t have been prouder of the team’s efort in felding sides in all grades on Saturday.

He said players like Merrick Skinner — who scored two tries in a full reserve-grade game, then backed up to play 80 minutes of frst grade and notch another try — exemplifed the club’s spirit.

“Mez, and plenty more like him — like Jack Torrens from the under-18s, who played in all three grades — really put in big time today for us,” Breitnauer said.

“And Jack Pitkin is really going to enjoy the end of the season; he’s playing with so many injuries.”

Second-rower Pitkin was one of the Rebels’ unsung heroes against the Comets. Every hit-up crossed the advantage line and every tackle stung in a forward pack giving away size and experience to its opponents.

Breitnauer also commented on the surprise decision to play centre Brian Quinlan-Randall at halfback.

“Brian’s been pushing to get a run in the seven jersey, and so far he’s done okay,” he said.

The game started like a continuation of the nightmarish past few weeks where the Rebels have conceded two scores of 60-plus.

After six minutes the Comets’ chunky centre, Ronan Singleton, strolled over virtually untouched after a poor defensive read opened a saloon passage for him.

Comets half Jett McCarthy had little trouble knocking over the conversion, but was back even closer to the posts just a couple of minutes later converting a try of his own. He scored backing up a break up the middle of the Rebels’ ruck by fullback Macauley Dawson.

Unsurprisingly, the scoreline was quickly followed by a ground announcement that pies, hot dogs and other food items were on

sale at cut prices to clear surplus stocks.

But he needn’t have bothered. Within minutes the Rebels were on the board when Skinner bullocked his way over the line.

Fullback Sam Petch converted to make the score competitive at 12-6, but a spilled ball in attack proved costly as McCarthy was able to snap up the loose ball and sprint 50m to score.

His conversion made it 18-6 and once again the hearts of Rebels’ supporters were in their mouths.

The Rebels’ try-scoring machine, Nick McGrady, gave the Rebels a glimmer of hope 10 minutes before half-time.

With great hands, he picked up a bouncing ball near the line and powered over for the frst of three he scored for the game.

The hat-trick took his tally for the year to 11, equal third on the try-scoring list for the competition.

At 18-10 the Rebels were right in it and attacking just before the break when Petch looked to be robbed of a try.

Close to the line he put a soft grubber behind the defence and appeared to ground the ball over the line, but the referee bizarrely denied the try and then awarded the Rebels a penalty.

The Rebels could not take advantage of possession close to the line and the half fnished with the

Comets ahead 18-10.

Four minutes into the second half McGrady had the Rebels fans on their feet with a typically powerful fnish.

A sharp pass from dummy-half Todd Cameron to fve-eighth Damon Kirby gave the pivot time to position McGrady outside his opposite number.

The well-weighted pass put the rugged centre into the gap, and he crashed over about 12m in from the left touchline.

Petch failed with the conversion attempt, but at 18-14 the Rebels were in the contest.

The Rebels can consider themselves fortunate not to go further behind when the referee ruled no try after a Comets player appeared to ground the ball in the right corner.

The decision clearly irked the Comets and within minutes a Comets player found himself in the sinbin for backchatting the referee.

The Rebels took advantage of the extra player within minutes with some

great broken-feld play.

Reserve forward Rhys Berry popped an ofoad to hardworking lock Nick Torrens, who in turn put McGrady into the clear to score.

Petch converted, putting the Rebels in front midway through the second half.

But it wasn’t the Rebels’ day. Attempting to pressure the Comets kicker, they only made partial contact, and the ball fell into the arms of the chasers.

A pass to Dawson put him into the clear, and he charged to the left of the posts.

McCarthy missed the conversion, but the Comets were back in front, and with their sin-binned player to return, they looked set.

The fnal stages of the match were chaotic.

With a bit over 10 minutes on the clock, the referee sin-binned the Comets player who had just returned from the bin.

But before the Rebels could take full advantage of the extra man, the referee sent Nick Torrens

from the feld, presumably for backchatting after some torrid goal-line defence.

With both teams down to 12, McCarthy scored the deciding try with about seven minutes remaining, putting the Comets out to a 28-20 lead.

While the Rebels didn’t give their fans the win they craved, they lost no friends with a tenacious defensive efort, repelling countless attacks with rugged goalline defence.

The Torrens brothers, Nick and Jack, made several crunching tackles, and the Quinlan-Randall brothers, Brian and Antwone, were also notable in the tackle count.

For the Grafton Ghosts, it was another torrid weekend — this time on the road to Macksville.

The Ghosts ended a dismal season with a 54-0 loss and will look back on 2025 as one of their worst years. As with the Rebels, injuries and the loss of key players through the season hit them hard, and they will be looking for a rebuild during the of-season.

Maddog ready to keep punching above its weight

The Maddog gym at Meerschaum Vale has done it again with another state title to add to its brag book.

Sixteen-year-old Lui Mclean of Wollongbar, only in his second year of boxing, has walked away with the title of NSW champion, having beaten his Queensland opponent convincingly at the QLD/NSW Interstate Lightweight Title, held at Deception Bay two weeks ago.

“The kid he fought was undefeated and it was in front of his home crowd,” said his coach, a very proud Scott Smith.

“Max Ferrier from Evans Head also had a win that night, just in his normal

fght.”

The title claimed by Lui was recently held by Sunny Mclean of Woodburn, no relation, but also from the Maddog gym. Sunny, himself, is stepping up as he has been selected to compete in the World Amateur Boxing Titles to represent Australia

in Shefeld, England.

“He has made the Australian elite boxing team,” said Scott.

“And I’ve been selected as one of the two Australian coaches.

“There will be 40 countries there as it’s the biggest amateur competition in the world.

“The international boxing association is hosting the event and they only want the very best.”

Scott said this is a huge opportunity for the young Woodburn boxer, as his experience recently has seen him competing against opponents older than him.

“There’s nothing he’s faced that he won’t be able to handle,” said Scott.

“He has done his apprenticeship and nothing over there could put him into any shock.”

Scott and Sunny will be fying out on October 12, with the competition starting on October 15.

“We are so stoked,” said Scott.

“For something like this to come from our little gym at Meerschaum Vale,

the boys have achieved so much.”

The Australian Boxing Council will be setting up a page on Facebook so people can watch the fghts and follow Sunny’s progress.

Samantha Elley

Scott Smith, coach and Sunny Maclean of Woodburn are on their way to the Australian Amateur Boxing Titles.

Rebels centre Nick McGrady crashes over for his second try of the game, which briefy put the Rebels in front.

REBELS GO DOWN SWINGING

Rebels centre Nick McGrady crashes over for his second try of the game, which briefy put the Rebels in front.