The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 230

By Samantha Elley on Page 4

By Samantha Elley on Page 6

By Tim Howard on Page7

Call to include vets acknowledgement in council meetings

A Clarence Valley councillor has made a passionate call to have an acknowledgement of the sacrifces of current and former armed forces personnel included into council meeting protocols.

To decide if the moves goes ahead, the Clarence Valley has been asked for its views on adding such an acknowledgement to council’s Code of Meeting Practice.

Cr Alison Whaites’ determination to add the acknowledgement to the COMP, which was part of a suite of policy changes to be sent out for public exhibition, added some favour to what appeared to be a cut and dried matter.

The councillor told the meeting she had considered bringing it to the last council, but decided against it because it was “maybe the wrong set of councillors.”

She also tried unsuccessfully to include it in the last business paper as a notice of motion, but was left with the option of proposing an amendment to the policy document.

Cr Whaites sought to add the following to part of the code covering opening of meetings,

“I acknowledge the sacrifce made by Australian previous and current service men and women and their families, in particular, those who have given their lives in defence of the freedom we enjoy today”,

Cr Debrah Novak asked Cr Whaites to explain her reasons for seeking the change.

“I feel that we should be acknowledging our service, men and women and families and everything they’ve done for our community,” she said.

“We haven’t done it yet, and I’m quite surprised that not all councils have done it, and I would really hope that all three tiers of government do look at

Cr Alison Whaites wants the opening of council meetings to include an acknowledgement to people who have served or are serving in the armed forces.

this as well.”

Other councillors could see be some problems.

Cr Peter Johnstone quizzed Cr Whaites whether she had asked RSLs about the idea.

She said she hadn’t but other groups and families of service veterans supported her efforts.

She pointed out that some other councils had already done this and more were considering it.

Cr Whaites also downplayed the need to ask for RSL permission.

“It’s not just the RSLs that are involved in this,” she said. “So my family are part of this as well.

“There’s community members that I’ve spoken to that don’t go to the RSL and on Remembrance Day and Anzac Day.”

But councillors did have concerns, even if they supported the thrust of Cr Whaites’ proposal.

Cr Cristie Yager, who was drafted into seconding the motion, “loved” the concept but worried where it might end.

“I do also worry that our acknowledgement is going to keep growing and growing and growing just because we have so many incredible, you know, people to who are worthy of, you know, acknowledgement,” she said.

Cr Whaites said she was aware of this possibility, but thought the importance of acknowledging their sacrifce was more important.

Councillors then

Cr Peter Johnstone says he supports Cr Whaites, but has concerns making the acknowledgement into a regular occurrence could devalue it.

tackled the procedural issues of Cr Whaites’ amendment, which risked throwing out all other parts of the motion, should her amendment be defeated.

Councillors eventually decided to quarantine her idea into a fourth point of the motion, which allowed other matters smooth passage.

But some councillors still took issue with the

concept.

Cr Johnstone was concerned making remembrance an everyday issue could devalue its importance.

“My concern, possibly, is that once we put this into our routine, it becomes routine, and perhaps will become less respectful of the purpose behind this, because it’ll be, we’re just going to say something that we always say,” he said.

Cr Whaites right of reply was typically passionate.

She dismissed Cr Johnstone’s claim the acknowledgement could become passé.

“I don’t understand how a one minute little acknowledgement is such a bad thing to respect the people that give you such a great life,” she said.

Cr Novak said her she had a close family member in the defence forces and welcome the idea of acknowledging their sacrifces during meeting openings.

She said she looked forward to reading the community responses when the proposal went out to exhibition.

But deputy mayor, Cr Greg Clancy, was not so enthusiastic.

He said he wore his father’s medal at Anzac and Remembrance Day memorials and said these were the occasions which brought home veterans’ sacrifces for most people.

“I think on Anzac Day and Remembrance Day, we should make a special acknowledgement, then I don’t see why we should add this to our code of meeting practice,” he said.

Other councillors said that while they could see merit in the idea, something about it troubled them.

But they voted in favour of including it in a swag of policy matters what went out onto public exhibition for 28 days.

A n Award-Winning Documentar y

A dark shadowy fgure comes into view on the CCTV.

The person is tall, although hunched over to avoid being detected.

They are dressed all in black, with some kind of headwear to cover their face.

White. White hands. White forehead.

The result of their visit to a home in Woodburn was fve slashed tyres on two cars.

According to the car owners, this was no random attack.

The couple say they are being targeted because they are different.

“We are very creative,” said Rod.

“We live an alternative life, but we are very peaceful.”

Rod’s partner, Callie, is a male to female transgender who started on the hormone journey

When fear and hate rears its ugly head

on March 23, 2021.

When the couple frst moved to the area they lived in Nimbin in 2016 and after a few more moves, they ended up in Woodburn where Rod is a DJ and volunteers in the community and his partner runs art therapy classes.

“We met in 2011, and we’ve been together for nearly 14 years,” said Rod.

Life was going along smoothly until one day in June, Callie received

an email from ‘Charlton Heston’ which read ‘F*&k off ya degenerate pig’.

It was the beginning of a number of emails from various pseudonyms, all insulting and one with very serious threats.

“This one scares me the most as I take this as a death threat,” said Callie.

The email was from ‘Margaret Thatcher’ and a picture of two feet hanging just above a chair with the words ‘A Day of the rope is

coming for you’ and the words ‘was/were’ over the feet.

When the same car, over a number of nights in November, started travelling up and down their road, slowing down in front of their house, then turning around and coming back, the couple contacted the police.

“We went and stayed at our friend’s home, too fearful to return home,” said Callie.

Then on the night of 21st November, the

couple’s tyres were slashed, which also happened to be Trans Day of Remembrance.

“It’s the day we remember people who have died from transphobic attacks,” said Callie, visibly upset.

The couple, understandably, are living with a high level of fear and anxiety and too frightened to even go downtown for a coffee.

The couple wanted to get their story out to make people aware of

what was happening to them.

“Awareness needs to be raised,” said Rod.

“In this day and age, we don’t want this type of behaviour in our community.”

If you see anything suspicious, have urgent information or need to report a crime call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

Kingscliff luxury resort to open in 2025

Luxury in the form of Kai Kingscliff is coming to the beach and potential buyers have the opportunity to view and purchase into this resort of 14 apartments, with the frst one now on the market.

Located on Dreamtime Beach, Murphys Road, Kingscliff, Apartment

One is one of three premium ground-foor beach homes designed by award-winning Tim Stewart Architects.

residence has been carefully crafted to deliver an unprecedented living experience,” he said.

“The seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, combined with its enviable position just steps from Dreamtime Beach, creates a unique offering that we believe sets a new standard for luxury coastal living.

“This is the only 447m² of beachfront land with a luxury apartment on the Tweed Coast, a great

Size ranges from 268m2 to 447m2 and the apartment is part of a frst of its kind in Kingscliff.

Director of Witheriff Group, Nick Witheriff, said Apartment One represents the pinnacle of beachfront living in Northern NSW.

“Every aspect of this

alternative to a house only offered here at Kai Kingscliff.”

Apartment One is the last remaining groundfoor residence with direct beach access.

Boasting 380sqm of total living space, including 187sqm of internal area and 193sqm of outdoor

spaces, this single-level residence features three ensuite bedrooms, each connecting to private terraces.

The gourmet kitchen

access, the apartment provides secure sideby-side parking with storage.

“The northeastern position is

features a walk-in pantry with a natural stone island as its centrepiece.

Additional luxuries include a private pool and courtyard, a separate study, full laundry, and ducted air-conditioning throughout.

Offering the seclusion of a littoral rainforest setting with direct beach

complemented by premium amenities including an outdoor shower, dedicated surf and bike storage, plus a resort-style pool and BBQ entertaining area - creating the perfect transition from beach to home,” said Nick.

Kai Kingscliff also welcomes pets and

offers residents and their four-legged companions direct access to one of Australia’s most pristine off-leash dog beaches.

Kai features an

sustainable transport requirements.

Kai Kingscliff is estimated to be completed by December 2025.

advanced green roof system for rainwater harvesting and a powerful 20-KW solar installation, signifcantly reducing the building’s environmental footprint

With every parking space pre-confgured for EV charging installation, Kai Kingscliff is futureproofed for residents’

Apartment One, Kai Kingscliff - $3,875,000 (NE ground foor)

Listing links: www. realestate.com.au and www.domain.com.au

Kai Kingscliff

Beachfront site on Murphys Rd, Kingscliff 14 x luxurious/large beachfront residences

Priced: $3.35m - $5m

SAMANTHA ELLEY

Rail Trail Opinion Piece

Hon Aileen MacDonald OAM MLC

The New England Rail Trail was a decade in the making.

It was set to transform the economies of Glen Innes, Guyra, and Armidale by converting a disused rail corridor into a vibrant tourism and recreation hub.

Thanks to the Federal and Labor State Governments is has been canned.

It promised to attract 15,000-day visitors and 14,000 overnight stays annually, injecting $5.8 million and creating 26 full time jobs.

But the Minns and Albanese Labor Governments have sabotaged the project because of their errant spending.

They simply don’t have the money to fulfll this promise because of their reckless spending elsewhere.

The decision to cut the funding has infuriated me because it affects the lives of thousands of people around the 35

km stretch from Glen Innes to Ben Lomand.

This project was much anticipated by the likes of motels, cafes and bike hire shops because of the revenue it promised to bring to the region.

Instead, this savage cut is not just a cut to a rail trail project, but a cut to the future of our regional communities.

And they’ve done it right in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis.

Labor talks big about inclusion and support, but their actions tell a different story. This is not an isolated incident, but part of a broader pattern of neglect for regional NSW.

Labor positions itself as the party of fairness and opportunity, but it has shown itself as anything but.

When it comes to regional NSW, they have failed to deliver.

Their cuts to the New England Rail Trail not only undermine economic growth, but also dismiss the hard work and aspirations of communities that have

planned and advocated for years.

It’s clear the Sydneycentric Minns Labour Government treats regional NSW as a second-class citizen.

We are a vital part of our state’s identity and future.

Projects like the New England Rail Trail are exactly what’s needed to create jobs, attract visitors, and secure regional resilience.

It’s time for Labor to recognise the value of regional NSW.

The New England Rail Trail deserves support, not sabotage.

Reversing this funding cut would show that Labor is serious about backing the bush.

But I know they won’t because they’ve blown the money elsewhere.

Labor has betrayed our trust and potential.

Rest assured I will continue to speak up and hold them to account, because unlike Labor, I love this part of NSW and want to see it prosper.

Colleen McLeod: Client story

Colleen has been a Care Connect client for a little over 12 months. She has a Home Care Package and was initially with another provider, but wanted something more. A friend whose mother was a Care Connect client recommended the not-for-proft, and Colleen made the switch. Which is when she met Care Manager Donna, and she “couldn’t be happier…Donna is delightful…she’s so lovely.”

Staying in their home is important to Collen and her husband Lloyd, who tends to their eight raised vegetable garden beds. Colleen is a baker extraordinaire, and while at 81 this former CWA member doesn’t bake quite as much as she used to, she’s still planning to make 18 Christmas cakes again this year. One of which will be going home with Donna!

“Care Connect keep you in your own home

happy and comfortable, and that’s what I want. And so does my husband.”

By providing cleaning and social services, Care Connect supports Colleen and Lloyd to continue living the life they love at home. “I’ve only got to pick up the phone…nothing is too much trouble.” Their ongoing relationship with Care Manager Donna means that as their needs change Care Connect can adjust their services to best support them, and keep them at home. Colleen “wouldn’t change Care Connect for

the world”.

When you’re letting people into your life and home, trust is vital. Describing their care worker as “a treasure” and one of the few people she’d give the keys of her house to, Colleen knows the things that are important to her are safe.

When asked to describe her switch to Care Connect, Colleen said emphatically ‘it’s the best thing I ever bloody did!”

We’re so glad you did Colleen. Happy 37th wedding anniversary to you and Lloyd!

Have you recently been assigned a Home Care Package? Are you thinking about switching providers?

Look no further than Care Connect

Care Connect is your local, not-for-profit home care provider with 30 years’ experience. We reinvest all profits into quality care management, which means you will get the best support possible. To make life easier.

Experience the Care Connect di erence today. Call our friendly team at 1800 692 464. There’s no cost and no obligation.

Why Care Connect?

• A dedicated, local Care Manager will partner with you to maximise your Home Care Package and services

• We deliver personalised care that meets your unique needs

• We link you with the community supports and resources you need

• Looking to switch providers or move from self-managing? We make the process easy and ensure a smooth transition.

River of Purple as Ballina comes out in force

ROBII HARMON

Ballina was a sea of purple of Friday as the community came together for Rotary’s annual walk to step up and step out against Domestic and Family Violence.

Schools, sporting groups, service organisations and community members alike joined together with Rotarians, NSW Police, NSW Fire and Rescue and local bus company Bus lines to deliver a frm message to create awareness and educate our community about the scourge on society that Domestic and Family Violence is.

Upwards of a thousand people walked from the Ballina Visitor Information Centre along River and Cherry Streets to the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre where the audience enjoyed dance and music performances by Ballina Coast High School students and listened to inspiring speakers.

Ballina Mayor Sharon Cadwallader applauded Rotary for their ongoing commitment to leading the way with this campaign.

Rotarian and Domestic and Family Violence project lead Dave Harmon outlined the progress made in the past six years highlighting the increase of reporting on Domestic and Family Violence incidents due to greater confdence in those experiencing it as they feel heard, believed and supported and the community in general being more aware and willing to help and support victims.

Retired Qld Police Commissioner, Bob Atkinson, spoke of the need for all communities throughout Australia to follow Ballina’s lead in bringing Domestic and Family Violence out into

the open.

Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council member, Jacque Lachmund,

Violence is a crime and encouraged everyone who may experience or witness it to come forward to police and

bravely shared her lived experience story and the training she provides to businesses in recognising and supporting employees who are experiencing violence.

NSW Police Inspector, Nigel Howard, reinforced the message that Domestic and Family

Caring for community at Christmas

by Janelle Saffn MP Member for Lismore

At this time of year, as always, I send my best wishes for Christmas and the New Year to all. This can be a time of celebrating with family and friends, of Christmas Carols and Santa. But we know the Christmas season can also be a very diffcult time for many people.

Loneliness is a growing and often hidden problem in our communities, and I commend the Minister for Mental Health, Rose Jackson, for initiating a Parliamentary Inquiry into the prevalence, causes and extent of loneliness in New South Wales.

The inquiry has received 135 written submissions, including one from the Nimbin Neighbourhood and Information Centre.

I spoke on this in Parliament because this submission raises issues that are relevant across our region.

This is an excerpt of my speech to Parliament on 14 November and what I said about the Nimbin Neighbourhood Centre runs true for the Lismore Community Gateway, Resilient Lismore, Women Up North Housing and all the neighbourhood centres in the electorate:

“I thank the Nimbin Neighbourhood and Information Centre [NNIC] in my electorate for submitting a comprehensive report on loneliness to the inquiry. I will raise some of the points from that submission, because it highlights what loneliness can look like in a regional area.

receive the help and support they require.

Attendees then crossed the road to Cherry Street Sports Club for a group photo on the Bowling Green with the message of say NO to Domestic and Family Violence.

All photos to be credited to Andy Garlepp

The NNIC is a hub of community support services in the heart of Nimbin, which welcomes everyone, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, religion, age or social status.

The NNIC conducted its annual community wellbeing survey in May

and June this year, which measures belonging, participation, trust and access. The results showed that people living with disability scored the lowest across all measures, compared with other groups. Men also scored lower across all those measures. It found that men are less likely to participate in local activities and groups. They are among the least likely to volunteer or take part in neighbourhood centre activities.

The neighbourhood centre followed up with an online survey, the Nimbin Loneliness Survey, to better understand the extent of loneliness in the community. The survey showed that men were more vulnerable to loneliness and indicated a link between loneliness, ageing and disability as isolation becomes an issue.

The issue becomes compounded for our elderly people when they have to give up their driver licences.

NNIC runs many social activities including the weekly food pantry and soup kitchens, weekly workshops, monthly food swap, the annual

women’s dinner, the big free community Christmas lunch, Nimbin NAIDOC Day and regular weaving circles and singing circles.

The following are some of the comments that people have shared:

“I really love the Food Pantry days and Soup Kitchen too. The service is great, and it has become an important part of my life, giving me a sense of social connection and emotional wellbeing.”

“Some of the best conversations I get all week are at the food pantry and soup kitchen days.”

Volunteering plays a major role in reducing social isolation in Nimbin, and NNIC’s activities involve more than 50 volunteers per year.

One volunteer said:

“I’ve found that feelings of loneliness stem from feeling disconnected from the community and world around us. Helping others through volunteering helps you feel less lonely and allows you to have a sense of mission and purpose in life.”

In regional areas, neighbourhood centres play a critical role in helping people stay connected to their communities.

Janelle Saffn at Dezhi Deli in Bexhill with proprietor Suzanne Deshi. The store is well stocked with special delicacies for Christmas from around the world and around the corner with one section of the store dedicated to local products.

The vexed question of what to do with the Brooms Head reserve might have an answer following the latest Clarence Valley Council meeting.

Exasperated at the lack of action in coming up with a plan to manage the site to the satisfaction residents and stake holders of the park, Cr Peter Johnstone brought a question with notice to the meeting seeking to get things moving.

His questions were:

Following the recent Councillor facility tour to Brooms Head Holiday Park, the questions were:

1. What progress has been made since the April 2024 resolution of Council regarding the Brooms Head Plan of Management?

And, 2. What options are available to council in the preparation of an updated Plan of Management?

In response to the questions, council staff prepared a report with four options for councillors.

Cr Johnstone dismissed options 1, 3 and 4 but decided to move a variation of Option 2 as the best solution to the issue.

He moved that:

1. Council endorse the Draft Brooms Head Reserve Plan of Management for Crown reserve R65975, to be referred to the Department of

Movement at last on Brooms Head plan

Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, Crown Lands and Public Spaces, to seek approval to publicly exhibit the Plan of Management.

2. To prepare a detailed site plan for the Brooms Head Reserve, while the Plan of Management is being reviewed by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, Crown Lands and Public Spaces.

3. invite the Yaegl Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation to provide advice to council for inclusion of the site plan and or plan of management on the components, details and other matters that are important to the corporation.

4. Present the response to the Draft Program of Management to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, Crown Lands and Public Spaces once received the advice and the Yaegl traditional owners, the public to a council workshop that will review the site plan and draft program of management.

5. Once approval has been obtained from the Department of Housing planning, housing infrastructure, crown lands and public spaces, exhibit the draft Brooms Head Reserve Plan of Management, Site Plan concurrently for 42 days over which time council will accept public submissions.

6. Report any submissions received in

the draft Brooms Head, Plan of Management Site Plan back to council after submission period disclosed consideration of its adoption or re exhibition, as per the requirement of Section 40 of the Local Government Act 1993.

Cr Alison Whaites seconded the motion.

Speaking to his motion, Cr Johnstone said that for two long inaction had

months later, we are no further forward.”

Cr Johnstone said the council had found seeking a consensus from the fve competing groups impossible.

“To be fair, the last council did make an effort,” Cr Johnstone said.

“A consultant was engaged to prepare a new plan of management, we listened to the views

characterised council’s Handling of the Brooms Head issue.

“At the start of the last term of council in 2022 were briefed about the caravan site and challenges getting consensus from the fve-plus distinct groups of opinions to how the site should be managed,” he said. “Now here, 13

long term residents of the park, those who live in Brooms Head as neighbours of the park and the Yaegl traditional owners.

“Each of those groups have strongly held beliefs and understandable desires for the future of Brooms Head Reserve,” he said.

“Some of those groups agree on some aspects while strongly disagree on others.

“A failure to compromise has resulted in deadlock and a failure of consensus on the direction to move forward.”

He noted the inaction was not limited to recent times, pointing out the last PoM had been agreed on nearly 30 years ago.

Not all councillors agreed.

Cr Debrah Novak foreshadowed Option 1 as her preferred option, pointing out it had the support of the Yaegl traditional owners.

Cr Greg Clancy was another to back Option 1, pointing out that many of the arguments for option 2 also worked for option 1.

of many people at a well attended meeting in Brooms Head last January.

However, that brought into sharp focus the differing views of the fve main groups I can identify.”

He characterised the groups as the caravaners, the day users such as surfers and fshers, the

Cr Karen Toms spoke at length in support of Cr Johnstone’s motion, arguing the community should not be spooked by the proposal.

“This is not going to turn it into a Big 4, with water slides, etc, but it is something we need to move forward on and stop kidding ourselves that we’re going to get

consensus,” she said.

“Sometimes you just have to make the tough decision.”

In his right of reply

Cr Johnstone said at the council needed to stop wasting time trying to get a consensus from groups who would never agree.

“The problem we have, though, is if we do what one of those fve groups, does this group, that group, the other group, will say, we haven’t listened to them,” Cr Johnstone said.

“If we do what this group says, then this group, this group and this group will say, we haven’t listened to what they said.

“There’s a difference between listening and agreeing.”

But he said this was just the beginning.

“To quote Lao Tzu, a journey of 1000 miles begins with the a single step,” he said.

“Sending this frst draft to Crown Lands is just that frst step, a little step with many more steps to come, I ask councillors that you help start that journey.

“I need just four more of you to be able to step out.

“It would be much nicer if all nine councillors, start that journey together.”

Cr Johnstone did not achieve unanimity, but enough councillors were prepared to set out with him.

Cr Peter Johnstone could have taken a decisive frst step to getting some action on development of plan of management for the Brooms Head reserve. TIM HOWARD

“Australian lightweight champion from lil ol’ Swan Bay”

world champion professional boxers.

Maddog boxing’s Sunny McLean has been going from strength to strength this past year, grabbing titles from each of the events he has been fghting in.

Sunny and his coach, Scott Smith, who runs Maddox Boxing, were recently picked to represent Queensland as the fghter and coach team to compete in the national titles in Gosford.

Sunny won all his elimination bouts and beat the NSW champion in the gold medal fght, to become the newly crowned Australian champion in the lightweight division. They were surprised with a visit from Jason and Andrew Moloney,

“Every state in Australia was there with

“They came to help me prepare Sunny for his last two fghts in this event.”

Sunny was competing for Queensland as he already holds the title of QLD/NSW interstate champion.

“His frst opponent, the referee stopped the fght in the 3rd round,” said Scott.

“His second opponent was the favourite from Tasmania and Sunny won that fght to go through for the gold medal against the NSW champion.

“Andy (co-trainer) and I worked out a plan to beat him and Sunny did exactly what he was asked and never last

all the best fghters and the (Moloney brothers) came to support us, so we felt so special,” said Scott.

control of the situation.

“He is now the Australian lightweight champion from lil ol Swan Bay.”

40 years of SES service comes to

SAMANTHA ELLEY

There were mixed feelings at the Ballina SES unit last week when Inspector Gerry Burnage, Unit Commander announced his retirement after 40 years.

“Throughout his remarkable career, Gerry has been a pillar of strength and resilience, consistently demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our community,” said Scott McLennan, Superintendent – Deputy Zone Commander.

“His expertise in General Land Rescue, Road Crash Rescue, Flood Rescue, and Incident Management Team (IMT) operations has been invaluable.

The list of awards Gerry has received over a 40-year career are numerous and an example of his

an end

exemplary service.

The awards include:

• The Emergency Services Medal

• The National Medal

• The National Emergency Medal for Tropical Cyclone Debbie

• NSW SES Life Membership

• The Commissioner’s Appreciation Certifcate

• The Commissioner’s Certifcate for Consistently High Level of Response

• The Premier’s Bush Fire Emergency Citation Gerry was also a fnalist in the Rotary NSW Emergency Services Community Awards in 2020.

CONTRIBUTED

The Labor Party strikes again, this time it’s Richmond Waste, who has lost its contract with our local hospitals. Richmond Waste had been providing services to the local health district for over 40 years and has now lost the contract.

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said this follows their shameful treatment of Norco and Hutley Bros. Butchery in South Lismore.

“Labor has made their priorities crystal clear: the city over our regional communities. We need to vote them out,” Mr Hogan said.

“Previously, businesses

When there is a weather event the SES needs to attend, Gerry’s skills and energy are there.

He was on the ground when the Lennox Head tornado hit in 2010, he attended all the North Coast foods, many local storm events and major road accidents as well.

“We extend our deepest appreciation for (Gerry’s) tireless service and leadership,” said Supt McLennan.

“His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of volunteers. We wish Gerry all the best in his well-deserved retirement and future endeavours.”

“These accolades are a testament to Gerry’s exceptional skills, dedication, and the high regard in which he is held by his peers and the community,” said Supt McLennan.

Gerry will hand over his command of the Ballina Unit to chief Inspector John Brown (Local Commander).

3 strikes, now Labor need to be voted out

could tender for contracts that would cover just our local health area. But now they are expected to service a much larger area of the State. This is only possible for large multi nationals. That means the Labor Government is giving the contracts to large multinational companies over our local businesses. Shame on them.

“Labor has no reality on how the regions work. Our community proudly supports locals, and this Government is the complete opposite.”

“Every decision they make is another kick in the guts to our community, proving that Labor’s citycentric machine doesn’t have a clue about life in the regions.”

Scott and Sunny with the Jason and Andrew Moloney. contributed

Sunny McLean with his coach, Scott Smith. contributed SAMANTHA ELLEY

Photo courtesy Rotary.

Readings will be done in Byron Bay on the 7th of December at Boho Hairdressers and also coming to Lismore on other dates.

BOOK

NOW to avoid any disappointment Call Tahillia on

Northern Rivers Resilient Homes Program Expanded to $880 Million

ROBERT HEYWARD

The Northern Rivers Resilient Homes Program (RHP) has received an additional $90 million in funding from the Albanese Government, increasing the program’s total to $880 million. This expansion is aimed at protecting communities in one of Australia’s most food-prone regions through property buybacks and foodresilience upgrades.

Program Overview: Launched in October 2022, the RHP addresses the severe impacts of the 2022 Northern Rivers foods, which devastated seven Local Government Areas (LGAs): Ballina, Byron Bay, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley, and Tweed. The program focuses on:

• Property buybacks for homes in high-risk food zones.

• Resilience upgrades, including house raising, retroftting, rebuilding,

and relocation.

Key Achievements: As of November 29, 2024:

• 836 offers approved under the RHP.

• 708 buyback offers accepted, with 564 settlements completed.

New Enhancements:

1. Hardship Provision: Eligible homeowners can now access resilience funding without co-contribution requirements.

2. Upfront Design and Planning Funding: Additional initial funding is now available for design and planning phases.

Joint Funding Milestones:

• The program began with $700 million in funding under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), jointly provided by the Australian and NSW Governments.

• In June 2024, the NSW Government pledged an additional $90 million, which has now been matched by the Albanese Government,

Community Impact:

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Jenny McAlister, emphasized the program’s importance: “Moving people out of high-risk areas and ensuring homes can withstand foods is crucial as the risk of future fooding grows.”

“This funding ensures we build back better, delivering more resilient homes and a stronger future for our community.”

NSW Minister for Planning, Paul Scully, hailed the program as a national model for climate change adaptation: “It’s the largest program of its kind in Australia, boosting the community’s capacity to endure future food impacts.”

Broader Recovery Efforts:

The RHP complements other initiatives, with over $3.4 billion in disaster funding directed toward recovery and resilience in the Northern Rivers. These investments include:

• $1.2 billion in recovery support packages.

• $193 million for medium- to long-term resilience projects.

Next Steps:

The NSW Resilience Authority continues assessing properties for eligibility, ensuring the program reaches the most vulnerable communities. While the scale of the initiative demands time, leaders are confdent in its ability to offer critical options for homeowners and safeguard the region against future disasters. For more information, visit the Resilient Homes Program website.

bringing the total to $880 million.

Federal Member for Richmond, Justine Elliot MP, added:

hands-on experience in the construction industry.

When Year 9 student, Amos Robinson, was told about the excursion to go to a construction site, he was only too happy to attend.

The construction site was Murwillumbah High School, which is being refurbished and ready for students to return in early 2025.

The 15-year-old student from Murwillumbah Learning Community High School, which was the result of a merge between Murwillumbah High and Wollumbin High schools, along with 12 other students, had a

“We got into groups and (Hutchinson’s Builders) showed us around and told us about what they were doing,” said Amos.

“They told us about a career path in tiling, carpentry and painting.

“I really liked tiling and painting.”

The students were given the chance to try their hand at different trades and learnt some interesting techniques.

“I never knew much about painting on construction sites,” said Amos.

“I just got (to do) the basic stuff and learnt to

paint in a way that made it look like timber.”

Careers adviser at Amos’ school, Leia Dillon, said the goal for the students was to give them as much exposure to all the different trades in one place.

“The rebuild at Murwillumbah (High School) is actionpacked,” she said.

“It is a short timeline, and every trade is currently there.

“For the students it will be full circle as they get to see and remember what the high school looked like before.

“When they go back next year, they will the end results.”

Learning the trades from the ground up

PICTURED: Students from Murwillumbah Learning Centre High get shown the ropes in the construction industry. Contributed.

underrepresented people.

“There is a shortage

Ms Dillon said the hands-on aspect of the day helped solidify the trade for the students and their trainers gave them plenty of positive reinforcement.

Mark Kucks is the National Indigenous and social Procurement Manager for Hutchinson’s Builders and said his job is about providing opportunities for young and

of young people coming into trades and apprenticeships,” he said.

“While apprenticeships have been around forever, we are making sure young people are exposed to construction as a viable industry.

“Not everyone is suited to go to university.”

Over the next four days 80 students will have experienced the initiative that Hutchinson’s are

running, through their Statim Yaga workshops, in partnership with the Regional Industry Education Partnership (RIEP) program.

Jill McCall is the senior project offcer of the program and is excited to provide the students with a wide range of experiences.

“They get the opportunity to taste and try and explore careers,” she said.

“Today was fantastic, providing students with the information and hands-on experience.

“We see it as a success that a student tries a career and even if they don’t like it, they have given it a go.”

And as for Amos, he says his mind has been opened to the possibility of working in the construction industry.

“Now I know (what it involves), I am going to give it a go,” he said.

“Even if I do it for only a couple of years.”

Lucky Dip

SAMANTHA ELLEY

Diary of a Flood Survivor

SAMANTHA ELLEY

It seems that nearly every household in Woodburn has a dog, sometimes two. We have a dog, so we feel right at home.

He is our little cross Maltese-Shitzu, called Odi, who will be turning 11 years old in March.

Whenever I walk him in the morning, the whole street explodes as each of the dogs greet him with a litany of barking from the deep-throated ‘I am gonna have you for a snack’, to ‘Hey Odi, wish I was walking with you’ to the high-pitched squeaky toy dog who I’m sure Odi could have as a snack.

My husband has always commented that he knows when we are returning as the dogs

perform their barking guard of honour once again when they see us.

Many of the dogs were around to experience the food and it has had me wondering how they coped with the drama and changes of that time.

I know Odi experienced some challenges, so much so that he didn’t want to sleep in his bed (which we took with us to our friends who put us up) anymore, preferring to sleep at the end of ours.

He had to deal with new surroundings for seven months AND with another dog to share the house. Even when we came home, he has continued to sleep at the end of our bed.

It’s not just dogs either.

Being a rural area many people who

suffered from the food had a wide range of animals to take care of, I mean who can forget the horses on the bridge. Sadly, there many animals that didn’t survive either.

Not just stock, but also loved pets and many tears were shed at their loss.

This article is in memory of little Bella who recently passed over the heavenly bridge and who was our favourite little fuff ball in the offce. Little steps.

Northern Rivers Volunteers Set to Shine at 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards

JEFF GIBBS

The Northern Rivers community is rallying behind its local volunteer heroes as they prepare to represent the region at the prestigious 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards.

Finalists from across the Northern Rivers will join over 200 other extraordinary individuals and teams in Sydney next month for a gala event celebrating their invaluable contributions.

The highlight of the evening will be the announcement of the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year.

These fnalists were selected from 25 regions across the state, with regional ceremonies held in recent months to honour their exceptional

efforts. Representing the Northern Rivers region this year are:

• Young Volunteer of the Year: Jackson Whitney, NSW SES

• Adult Volunteer of the Year: Simone Clark, Wardell CORE, Orange Sky, and Mary’s Place

• Senior Volunteer of the Year: Leoni Byron-Jackson, WIRES

• Volunteer Team of the Year: Agape Outreach

Gemma Rygate, CEO of The Centre for Volunteering, praised the incredible impact volunteers make across the state.

“Each year, more than 4 million people volunteer in NSW, contributing an astounding $178 billion in social and economic value,” Ms. Rygate said.

“Volunteers in the Northern Rivers region are a vital part of this collective effort. We wish this year’s fnalists the very best of luck at the state awards and, most importantly, extend our heartfelt thanks to all volunteers across the region for their selfess dedication and remarkable contributions.”

The 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards Gala Ceremony will take place in Sydney on Tuesday, 10 December.

The awards are proudly supported by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice and ClubsNSW as Principal Partners, with regional sponsor Beyond Bank Australia and additional support from Sixt and Mint Awards.

Coming 2025

Upper Fine Flower

Anchor™ Food Professionals

Celebrates 25 Years of Culinary Excellence with Proud to be a Chef 2025 Finalists

Anchor™ Food Professionals, in collaboration with Fonterra, proudly unveils the fnalists for the 2025 Proud to be a Chef program.

Marking its 25th year, this premier foodservice mentoring initiative continues to champion the growth of Australia’s most promising apprentice chefs, fostering innovation and excellence in the culinary arts.

Ann Boulton, 18yo from Grafton, one of the Finalists for the 2025 Proud to be a Chef Program

A cohort of 32 passionate young chefs from across the nation has been selected for the transformative, all-expenses-paid program, taking place in Melbourne in February 2025. Over four immersive days, participants will engage in exclusive feld tours, masterclasses, and mentoring sessions with industry luminaries, culminating in one standout apprentice receiving the prestigious $7,500 culinary scholarship. This tailored scholarship is designed to accelerate the winner’s culinary career and inspire a new wave of foodservice leaders.

Leading the charge is Proud to be a Chef ambassador and mentor George Calombaris, who returns to the program 25 years after claiming its inaugural title in 1999. Joining him are Executive Chef Mark Normoyle of Anchor™ Food Professionals and pastry mentor Angelica Iuliano, Group Pastry Chef at MoVida and Co-Chair of the Victorian Young Chefs Club. Together, this powerhouse trio will guide the fnalists through hands-on workshops, fne dining experiences, and personalised career insights.

“This program transformed my life and career,” said George Calombaris. “Now, as a mentor, I’m thrilled to help nurture the next generation of chefs. These young talents are the future of Australian cuisine, and I can’t wait to help them unlock their potential.”

Angelica Iuliano echoed the sentiment, adding, “Proud to be a Chef is a one-of-a-kind initiative that challenges young chefs to push their boundaries and grow both professionally and personally. I’m excited to see the creativity and passion this year’s fnalists bring.” Finalists were chosen for their originality, passion for the craft, and career aspirations, as demonstrated through innovative recipes featuring Anchor™ Food Professionals products.

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Among the standout participants is 18-yearold Kira Ann Boulton from Grafton, NSW, who is set to represent her community on the national stage.

As the program celebrates its milestone 25th anniversary, it remains committed to nurturing emerging talent and celebrating the artistry of Australian cuisine. For more information on Proud to be a Chef and its legacy of culinary mentorship, visit proudtobeachef. com.

Aussies

Treat Their Pets Like Family, New Survey Reveals JEFF GIBBS

Australians have a special bond with their pets, and a recent survey confrms just how deep that connection goes.

According to pet insurer Budget Direct, more than 90% of Australians talk to their dogs and cats as though they were human family members.

In a poll of 1,000 Australians, 93% of respondents admitted to having human-like conversations with their pets, highlighting the strong role these furry companions play in family life. Specifcally, 59% said they regularly spoke to their pets as if they were people, while 34% said they did so occasionally. Only 7% said they never talked to their pets in this way.

“We’ve always known how much Aussies adore their pets, but this survey shows how deeply ingrained they are in our families. The fact that over nine out of ten people talk to their pets like humans speaks volumes about the bond we share,” a Budget Direct spokesperson said.

Why Aussies Chat With Their Pets

The reasons behind this behaviour reveal the emotional connection Australians have with their pets:

• 72%: “My pet is part of my family.”

• 36%: “My pet is like my child or best friend.”

• 32%: “I’m sure they understand me.”

• 28%: “They’re a great listener.”

Beyond conversations, pets are included in other family traditions. 37% of respondents

said their pets receive birthday or Christmas presents every year, further cementing their place in the family unit. How Australians Care for Their Pets

The survey also shed light on how Australians prioritize their pets’ comfort and wellbeing:

• 54% of respondents are dog owners, 28% own cats, and 18% have both.

• 32% said their pets share a bed with them or another family member, while 43% provide their pets with their own beds or crates.

• 60% allow their pets on furniture, with another 30% doing so occasionally.

Grooming and Exercise Habits

Dog owners are diligent about keeping their pets active, with 41% walking their dogs daily and 26% every other day. Grooming is also a priority, with 30% grooming weekly, 32% monthly, and 22% every few months.

Pets and Holidays

Despite their importance, pets don’t always come along on family trips. Only 9% of respondents said they always took their pets on holidays, while 34% brought them along when possible. However, 40% said their pets never joined them on trips.

A Central Role in Family Life

The results highlight the pivotal role pets play in Australian households. From shared conversations to special occasions, our pets are not just companions—they’re cherished members of the family.

In accordance with section 152D of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given of the proposed sale of the Crown public roads listed in Schedule 1. If a sale proceeds, the road(s) will cease to be a public road upon transfer of the road to freehold land in accordance with section 152H of the Act.

Schedule 1: • Crown road at Ghinni Ghi within unaddressed property that is east of 1653 Iron Pot Creek Road. (File Ref: 24/13080, Cluster: 673583)

All interested persons are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal to Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure – Crown Lands, PO Box 2215, DANGAR NSW 2309 within twenty-eight (28) days of the date of this advertisement. Any person is entitled to make submissions with respect to the sale or disposal of the road. Please note that submissions may be referred to third parties (such as council or the applicant) for consideration in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009

For the Manager, Divestments

For further enquiries please visit the website roads.crownland.nsw.gov.au or contact Kristy Rizzo by email at kristy.rizzo@crownland.nsw.gov.au quoting fle references above.

Kira

ROBERT HEYWARD

NSW Health has issued an urgent warning following the hospitalisation of two individuals in New South Wales from severe opioid overdoses. The cases are linked to fake oxycodone tablets containing nitazenes, an extremely potent and dangerous synthetic opioid.

The counterfeit pills are described as yellow, unmarked round tablets

and are being sold as “OxyContin 40 mg.” However, they contain nitazenes, which are far more potent than oxycodone and pose a higher risk of lifethreatening respiratory depression.

The Dangers of Nitazenes Nitazenes are illicit synthetic opioids that can be hundreds of times stronger than oxycodone. Due to their unregulated nature, there is no way to confrm their dosage or

contents, even within the same batch, making them highly unpredictable and dangerous.

Dr. Darren Roberts, Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, warned:

“Nitazenes are extremely potent and vary widely in strength. Even small amounts can lead to severe overdose or death.”

Precautions and LifeSaving Measures

• Carry Naloxone:

This life-saving treatment can temporarily reverse opioid overdoses, including those caused by nitazenes.

o Available as a nasal spray or injection from participating pharmacies and health services.

o Order discreetly from NUAA’s online store or by calling (02) 9171 6650.

• Act Immediately in an Emergency:

Public Health Warning: Severe Opioid Overdoses Linked to Nitazenes in Fake Oxycodone

Recognising an Opioid Overdose

It’s crucial to know the signs of an opioid overdose, which include:

• Pinpoint pupils

• Extreme drowsiness or unconsciousness

• Slowed breathing or snoring

• Skin turning blue or grey

o Administer naloxone if an overdose is suspected.

o Call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance after using naloxone— follow-up care is essential.

o Higher or repeated doses of naloxone may be required for nitazene overdoses, along with hospital treatment.

Key Resources and Support

• Take-Home Naloxone Program: For more information, visit Your Room - Naloxone.

• NSW Poisons

Information Centre: Call 13 11 26 for 24/7 advice on adverse effects from drugs.

• Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS): Contact 1800 250 015 for confdential, 24/7 counselling and support for drug and alcohol issues. For updates on public drug warnings, visit the NSW Public Drug Warnings. Stay informed. Stay safe. Seek help if needed.

TAFE NSW Grafton Graduate Scott Wright Wins Prestigious William Galvin Scholarship

ROBERT HEYWARD

TAFE NSW Grafton graduate and rising culinary star Scott Wright has been awarded the prestigious William R Galvin Memorial Scholarship, recognizing his exceptional dedication and passion for the tourism and hospitality industry.

The $5,000 scholarship, established in memory of TAFE NSW teacher William R Galvin OAM, supports outstanding students by providing access to advanced training, conferences, and study tours, empowering the next generation of industry leaders.

This year’s competition was highly competitive, resulting in a joint award, with Scott sharing the honour with fellow TAFE NSW graduate Mia Barclay, a Certifcate III in Cake and Pastry graduate from TAFE NSW Hamilton.

From Humble Beginnings to National Recognition

Scott’s culinary journey began humbly in his hometown of Yamba, washing dishes in a local restaurant.

Today, he works as a Chef at the Blaxland

Inn in Pokolbin, New South Wales, and credits his success to the transformative opportunities provided by TAFE NSW.

“This scholarship will make an enormous difference for me,” Scott shared. “With the rising

cost of living, it will help me continue my studies and pursue my career goals.”

Scott candidly refected on his unconventional path.

“I wasn’t overly academic in school, but everything changed

when I started working in a restaurant. I loved the heat, the chaos, and the precision of the kitchen. TAFE NSW gave me the tools to turn my passion into a career.”

During his studies, Scott excelled in a range of high-profle competitions, including:

• Competing in WorldSkills.

• Finalist in the Nestlé Golden Chef Hat Cookery Competition.

• Participation in the Fonterra Proud to be a Chef Mentoring Program.

• Winner of the TAFE NSW Apprentice of the Year Excellence Award.

Scott’s ambition extends beyond Australia. He aspires to work at Fallow, a celebrated London restaurant known for its sustainability and bold culinary ideas. He plans to use the scholarship to travel to London and learn from the restaurant’s renowned Head Chefs.

“Long-term, I want to return to Yamba, open an incredible restaurant, and bring world favors to my hometown,” Scott said.

A Teacher’s Perspective

Scott’s TAFE NSW teacher, Bernadette Ryan, praised his unwavering determination and passion.

“Scott’s story is one of resilience and drive. He overcame every challenge with enthusiasm, proving time and again that he belongs in one of the toughest trades. His passion is infectious, and I can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next.”

Scott’s achievements exemplify the transformative power of vocational education and highlight the potential of young Australian talent in the global hospitality industry.

Congratulations, Scott, on this welldeserved recognition!

IAN ROGERS

Scott Wright

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

TIS THE SEASON FOR BEING ‘KINDLY’

I was snoozing on the grass, paws in air, sun on my tummy, dreaming about my ‘soon to be delivered’ lunch treat. ‘Mum Jane’ at times brings my bowl OUTSIDE for me so I don’t have to go far to eat it. I remained in my sunny reverie a little longer then vaguely heard a ‘peck-peck’ noise. (‘Leemo Cat’ here.) Aaaargh! It appears Mum & Dad magpie spied my bowl, gured I was undoubtedly ‘away with the birdies’ in a deep sleep, & it would be most wasteful not to consume what was in it. So they did. ‘Gobble gobble gobble, munch munch munch, Leemo’s fast asleep, so we’ll take his lunch’ whilst squawking with delight. I woke with a start & saw them ying o with full beaks. OMG! My bowl was pecked clean. How rude! I reckon I’ve got a valid & indisputable case of the to report, and rightfully so. ‘Mum, I wish to go the Police Station ‘cos my lunch was stolen.’ Oh dear, I’ve seen some, hmmm, “spellbindingly horrendous” looks on her pruney face in the past, but this one surpassed all of them. I thought she was going to faint. Eeeek! She recovered su ciently (a er tea & biks) to address my request. ‘Hmmm, Leems, this is indeed a dilemma; let’s have a chat before we go charging o to the Police Station.’ Hmmm, I sorta nodded OK. ‘Now Leems, are you aware of what day it is to-day?’ (I personally gure it’s

just another day like any old day.) ‘Whaddya mean Mum?’ ‘Well my boy, TO-DAY is the rst day of the month of Christmas. AND, Leems, are you aware Christmas is a time that revolves around the concept of KINDNESS, GIVING & SHARING, be it gi s like a Puppy, Gold, Frankincense & Myrrh, a bale of hay, hugs, or even a Christmas pudding. I want you to give thought to the ‘birdies’ who ate your lunch.. OK? (Hmmm, I reckon this is dumb!) ‘Mum & Dad magpie most likely have a family of chicks to feed, so when they ate your lunch, they were not doing it ‘cos they were stealing or greedy; they ew o with your treats in their beaks and delivered it to their nest to feed the chicks. Kinda like when I go out to get food for you Leems; I bring it home and put it in your bowl for YOU to eat. Gottit?’ (Hmmm, I ‘spose she’s got a point. I surmised Mum COULD maybe eat it all herself but she instead gives it to meesie; oooh, how kind, what a nice warm purry feeling I have a er thinking deeply about this!) ‘So, Leems, as you appear unusually benign at this moment, tell me now what you plan to apply by using KINDNESS, GIVING & SHARING in your own thinking and actions, not just for Christmas, but all the time?’ (OMG! I reckon she’s typically NOW going too far. “ALL THE TIME?

Aaargh” Hmmm. A deep ponder is needed before I commit to anything so burdensome.) So, I had a ponder & spoke. ‘Right Mum, I acknowledge that at times I could share more & adopt more gracious behaviours. SO, every day I’m going to leave a ‘teensy’ amount of food in my bowl and push it outside for the magpies, meaning you need to put MORE food in my bowl to begin with. Pretty ni y huh! Su ce to say I’ll be doing my bit of kindness & stu . (I won’t TRY to describe the look on her face.) Many purrsies, Leemo.

Adopt a Family

Mooball Creek Seawalls Restored Ahead of Summer

ROBERT HEYWARD

The long-awaited repairs to the collapsed training walls at Mooball Creek, Pottsville, have been completed just in time for the busy summer season. The $1.28 million project, funded jointly by Transport for NSW ($540,000), the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program ($450,000), and Tweed Shire Council ($290,000), has restored the seawalls to their original condition. Originally built in

the 1960s to keep the creek mouth open, the seawalls had deteriorated over time due to natural erosion and repeated cyclonic weather events in recent years. The collapse led to further erosion at the creek entrance, signifcantly impacting the area’s water quality and recreational appeal.

Collaborative Effort to Restore the Creek In late 2022, Manly Hydraulics Laboratory, the NSW Government’s coastal engineering experts, conducted an analysis of the training walls and designed the necessary repairs. Earlier

this year, Transport for NSW granted consent for Council and contractors to access the site, and MGN Civil Pty Ltd was engaged to complete the restoration.

Work began in October, with 3,785 tonnes of new rock armour installed across both the north and south seawalls. The project was brought to fruition thanks to a sustained advocacy campaign by the Pottsville Community Association, spearheaded by local resident and angler David Cranwell.

Community and Government Celebrate the Milestone

Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry celebrated the completion of the project and its signifcance for locals and visitors.

“Residents and visitors love Mooball Creek – or ‘Potty Creek’ as locals call it – for swimming and fshing. The repaired training walls ensure the creek’s tidal exchange is restored, signifcantly improving water quality,” Cr Cherry said.

“This project represents years of effort by the Pottsville Community Association and is a win for the whole community.”

Tweed MP Geoff

Provest emphasized the positive impact on recreation and management:

“Repairing the seawalls will help preserve Mooball Creek as a top recreational destination.”

Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot highlighted the importance of funding partnerships:

“This Federal Government investment of $450,000, alongside contributions from the NSW Government and Tweed Shire Council, ensures Mooball Creek remains a treasured spot for families and the broader community.”

Restoring a Treasured Destination

The repairs have secured the integrity of the creek mouth, ensuring improved water quality for swimming, fshing, and other recreational activities. The restored seawalls promise to maintain this beloved community location for generations. For more information on how Tweed Shire Council manages coastal waterways, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/ coastal-management.

AnchorTM Food Professionals Uncovers Australia’s Next Top Chefs

AnchorTM Food Professionals, in partnership with Fonterra, is delighted to announce the fnalists for the 2025 Proud to be a Chef program. This premier foodservice mentoring initiative celebrates its 25th year of fostering culinary excellence and inspiring the next generation of chefs across Australia.

Thirty-two of Australia’s most passionate and talented apprentice chefs have been selected to participate in the all-expenses-paid, once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience held in Melbourne in February 2025. The transformative program includes exclusive feld tours, hands-on masterclasses, and networking opportunities with some of the industry’s most esteemed leaders. At

the culmination of the program, one standout participant will be crowned the 2025 Proud to be a Chef winner, receiving a $7,500 culinary scholarship tailored to their unique professional aspirations – a launchpad for their future in the foodservice industry.

Over four days, participants will have the opportunity to learn from Proud to be a Chef mentor and ambassador, George Calombaris, the program’s frst-ever winner in 1999 and one of Australia’s most celebrated chefs. Joining George are AnchorTM Food Professionals

Executive Chef Mark Normoyle and pastry mentor Angelica Iuliano, Group Pastry Chef at MoVida and Co-Chair of the Victorian Young Chefs Club. Together, they will guide and inspire the fnalists

through workshops, fne dining experiences, and personalised mentoring sessions.

Each apprentice chef was evaluated on their passion for the culinary arts, career aspirations, and originality, demonstrated through a recipe submission featuring an AnchorTM Food Professionals product.

The fnalists for the 2025 Proud to be a Chef program are:

1. Amber Vastag, 20yo, Prestons NSW

2. Daniel Yin, 23yo, Arcadia NSW

3. Hyunkyeong Lee, 28yo, St Leonards NSW

4. James Brennan, 29yo, Orange NSW

5. Kira Ann Boulton, 18yo, Grafton NSW

6. Lochlainn Poole, 21yo, Wollongong NSW

7. Nikki Sheppard, 31yo, Tiwi NT

8. Caleb Talbot, 18yo, Cedar Grove QLD

9. Ethan Alborn, 19yo, Oxenford QLD

10. Eunsol Huh, 31yo, Parramatta Park QLD

11. Nasra Ahmed Mohamud, 24yo, Inala QLD

12. Catherine Shane Cordova, 26yo, Camden Park SA

13. Louise Sensi, 45yo, Watervale SA

14. Riana Kinlough, 31yo, Lockleys SA

15. Alistair Best, 24yo, Prospect TAS

16. Danial Bulbrook, 35yo, Summer Hill TAS

17. Semra Peach, 25yo, Wynyard TAS

18. Arabella Christie O’Halloran, 23yo, Rosedale VIC

19. Fatemeh Wafa, 35yo, Melbourne VIC

20. Garam Han, 40yo, Diggers Rest VIC

21. Isabel Nicole Aguas, 23yo, Essendon VIC

22. Katelyn Froebel, 21yo, Fitzroy VIC

23. Liam Ranken,

20yo, Mount Martha VIC

24. Lucas Robertson, 20yo, Lara VIC

25. Lucy Daley, 19yo, Strathfeldsaye VIC

26. Mia Gaunt, 19yo, Warragul VIC

27. Dylan Bernstein, 25yo, Dianella WA

28. Finlay Thorley, 20yo, Kelmscott WA

29. Jeffery Evans, 34yo, Gelorup WA

30. Juan Camilo

Zuluaga Pena, 37yo, Yanchep WA

31. Sok Mei Chieng, 47yo, Innaloo WA

32. Tiger-Lilly Braziuk, 19yo, Mount Lawley WA

Refecting on the milestone year, George Calombaris said, “This program changed the course of my career when I won 25 years ago. Now, being part of it as a mentor, I’m excited to share my journey, give back to this industry, and

help these aspiring chefs reach their full potential.”

Pastry mentor Angelica Iuliano added, “Proud to be a Chef is such a unique program. It pushes young chefs beyond their comfort zones and allows them to grow both professionally and personally. I can’t wait to see the talent this year’s fnalists bring to the table.”

Refecting the legacy of 25 years, this year’s Proud To Be A Chef program promises to uncover and nurture the culinary stars of tomorrow, celebrating passion, innovation and excellence in Australian cuisine.

For more details, visit proudtobeachef.com

Tricky job: Contractors working on the restoration of Mooball Creek’s southern wall. Geoff Provest, Chris Cherry and David Cranwell inspect the eroded northern wall before works started.

Understanding the impacts of overland fooding and stormwater in Ballina Shire

ROBERT HEYWARD

To enhance community resilience, Ballina Shire Council is committed to better preparing the community to withstand the challenges and impacts of future food events.

“This work involves conducting detailed food mapping and modelling projects to better understand fooding, identify ways to minimise its impact, and incorporate effective mitigation strategies into the region’s future plans,” said Paul Crozier, Manager Engineering Works at Ballina Shire Council.

“To enhance the accuracy of food modelling across Ballina Shire, we are inviting the community to share descriptions and photos of observed overland fooding.”

“This includes detailed accounts from the March 2022 food event to help refne and calibrate the models.

Information from other signifcant rainfall events is also valuable and welcomed.”

Current public consultations are underway for several key studies in Ballina Shire, including the Ballina Island and West Ballina Local Stormwater Drainage Management Study and Stormwater Masterplan (SWMP), as well as the Alstonville, Wardell, and Lennox Head Overland Flood Studies.

These studies focus on overland fooding, which occurs when heavy rainfall exceeds the capacity of the

drainage system, causing water to fow over land. This type of fooding commonly affects streets, yards, and low-lying areas where water accumulates and cannot drain quickly enough.

The SWMP and food studies aim to:

• Assess the current capacity of the stormwater drainage system.

• Model and map overland fooding during various storm scenarios, including the signifcant March 2022 storm.

• Pinpoint areas prone to fooding due to stormwater limitations.

• Propose potential stormwater system upgrades to reduce future fooding risks.

Community members are invited to participate in an online survey from 20 November to 20 December 2024.

Details about the studies, along with the survey link, are available on the Council’s YourSay page at www. yoursayballina.com. au/overland-foodstudy.

Findings from the studies will be showcased in a public exhibition in 2025. The insights gathered will play a vital role in enhancing town planning, guiding future development, and improving emergency responses to future storm events.

These initiatives are funded by Ballina Shire Council in partnership with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

Northern Rivers Community Foundation Celebrates 20 Years and Announces 2024/25 Grant Recipients

On Thursday, 21 November 2024, the Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRCF) celebrated two decades of community-driven impact, marking $10 million in donations across more than 645 projects since its inception.

Hosted at Elements at Byron, the milestone event brought together over 220 donors, grant recipients, and community leaders to celebrate the power of community giving, a defning trait of our region’s resilience through foods, fres, and the pandemic, and to unveil this year’s Community Grants recipients.

“This anniversary celebrates the profound impact of community giving,” said NRCF CEO Sam Henderson. “From humble beginnings, we’ve witnessed the extraordinary capacity of our region to come together and create meaningful change. Tonight is about honoring our journey and those making a difference on the ground.”

Introducing the 2024/25 Community Grants Recipients

The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the 2024/25 Community

Grants Program recipients, who exemplify the diverse and inspiring work being undertaken across the Northern Rivers.

From ecocultural fre training and community emergency hubs to supporting families with neurodivergent children to prepare for natural disasters, empowering changemakers, and preserving cultural heritage, these initiatives refect our commitment to creating positive, lasting change.

This year’s grant recipients are: Zero Emissions Byron, Autism Camp Australia, Positive Change for Marine Life, Resilient Uki, Resilient Byron / Plan C, Byron Bay Community Beneft Fund, Numulgi Memorial Hall, Nimbin Aquarius Foundation, Australian Seabird & Turtle Rescue, Agape Outreach Inc., Northern Rivers Women’s and Children’s Services, Lower Clarence Community Garden, Northern Rivers Performing Arts, Ballina Hot Meal Centre, RiverTracks, Mullumbimby Sustainability Education & Enterprise Development, Gummyaney Aboriginal Preschool, Woodenbong Community Men’s Shed, Tweed Coast Youth Service, Zephyr

Education and Mental Health Support Group.

“Without the support of NRCF, resilience groups like ours would be in a far more challenging situation,”

shared Melanie Bloor, President of Resilient Uki. “With these funds, we’ll develop a guide to empower Northern Rivers communities to better respond to crises, using lessons from past foods and successful models like those in New Zealand.”

“NRCF’s support has been truly transformative for our work at Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue,” said Steve Whalan, General Manager. “With grants that will help us install solar panels and a Tesla battery, we’ve signifcantly reduced our energy costs, which means more resources can go directly towards rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife. This support not only sustains our immediate rescue operations, such as maintaining our Turtle Hospital, but also aligns with our mission to educate and inspire the community about sustainable practices.”

Refecting on Two Decades of Impact

In a testament to the strength and generosity of the Northern Rivers community, Patron John Callanan and Chair

Johan Kortenhorst pledged $50,000 each to establish sub-funds of their own, inspiring onthe-spot commitments totaling an additional $850,000.

Sub-funds can be established by families, individuals or businesses to manage their charitable giving in a strategic and stress-free way. NRCF takes care of the administration and compliance while subfund owners receive an immediate tax deduction and enjoy all the joys of giving.

The evening featured heartfelt refections from NRCF founding members and community partners. Founding member and Deputy Chair, Lynda Dean OAM, spoke of the foundation’s origins and growth: “This journey began as a simple idea—a way to unite locals who care. Today, we are witnessing a legacy of care and community-driven change.”

“NRCF’s commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Northern Rivers is unwavering,” said NRCF Patron John Callanan. “Tonight reminds us of the power of generosity and the collective responsibility we share in supporting those most in need.”

End the Year Creatively at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery’s Pop-Up Art Market:

Saturday, 14 December!

LIAM JENNINGS

Celebrate creativity and community at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) with a free Pop-Up Art Market on Saturday, 14 December. This exciting one-day event will feature 20 artist-run stalls, set against the backdrop of the beautiful heritagelisted gallery in the heart of Ballina.

Explore a wide

variety of art forms, including painting, ceramics, printmaking, textiles, mixed media, photography, and sculptural installations. With an incredible array of works from local and regional artists available at various price points, it’s the perfect opportunity to fnd unique, thoughtful gifts for the festive season while supporting the local creative economy.

Featured Artists Include:

• Widjubal-Wiabul artist Val Smith

• Printmakers Rachel Dun and Penelope Sienna

• Oil painters Claudio Kirac and Jemima Patch-Taylor

• Multi-disciplinary Yaegl artist Vickki King

• Ceramicists Sofe Neuendorf and Kubek & Collaborators

• Textile artist and weaver Sue Connor

• The Outpost Studio (Claudie Frock, Kate Stroud, Mia Zapata,

• Landscape watercolour artist Dave Sparkes

• Wildlife photographer Sam McPherson

• Sculptural textile artist Holly Ahern

• and many more talented creators!

The Pop-Up Art Market will run from 10 AM to 3 PM on Saturday, 14 December, with plenty of free parking available in nearby streets. Visitors can also enjoy the

Gallery Café, which will be open all day serving its signature menu.

Unlike NRCG’s larger Ballina Contemporary Art Market in 2023, this event is a more intimate, scaled-down version.

Limited to the Gallery’s interior, there will be no additional programming or entertainment—this market is all about showcasing and celebrating the art itself!

Please note that Wi-Fi and phone reception inside the Gallery can

be unreliable, which may affect EFTPOS transactions. Attendees are encouraged to bring cash for purchases, but ATMs are conveniently located a short walk away in Ballina’s CBD if needed.

For queries about the event, visit www. nrcgballina.com.au, or contact the Gallery via email at nrcg@ballina. nsw.gov.au or phone 02 6681 0530.

NRCG is a wheelchair accessible venue.

Byron Bay ocean enthusiasts unite to combat domestic violence affecting young people

IAN ROGERS

Byron Bay surfers, surf ski riders, kayakers, and swimmers are being invited to join The World’s Largest Ever Paddle Out on Sunday, December 1st, in support of young survivors of domestic violence.

Participants in this inaugural event will paddle beyond the breakers to form symbolic foating circles of support, uniting communities in Byron Bay, Toowoon Bay (NSW), and Santa Cruz (USA). Event organizer Sam Hilton envisions this initiative expanding globally in the future.

Hilton highlighted that The World’s Largest Ever Paddle Out is a powerful way to raise awareness about the challenges faced by young survivors of domestic violence

and the pressing need for greater resources, advocacy, and intervention.

“We are inviting everyone, ocean lovers, surf clubs, surf

schools and community organisations passionate about youth welfare, to unite in solidarity and take action for young people impacted by domestic violence,” Mr

Hilton said.

“This isn’t just a paddle-out - it’s the start of a movement. We’re coming together as a community to stand with affected young

people, offering them hope, support, and a voice. Even if you aren’t a paddler, you are welcome to come and support us from the beach!”

Proceeds from the event will support Mr. Hilton’s charity, Spirited Foundation Ltd, which helps young survivors of domestic violence rebuild their lives.

Participants can register for the event at spirited. org.au with a $10 entry fee, and additional donations are warmly welcomed.

“Join us on December 1st to turn the tide against domestic violence,” Mr Hilton said.

“Every paddle, donation, and shared story helps build a future where survivors receive the support they need.”

Event Details

• What: Paddle out, speakers, live music, BBQ

• When: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Sunday, December 1, 2024

• Location: Clarkes Beach, Byron Bay, NSW

Kylie Gartside, Beki Davies)

L-R: Val Smith, Ballina Contemporary Art Market 2023 Stallholder, photographer Kate Holmes - Laila Page, Ballina Contemporary Art Market 2023 Stallholder, photographer Kate Holmes - Penelope Sienna, Ballina Contemporary Art Market 2023 Stallholder, photographer Kate Holmes - Claudio Kirac in the Studio, photographer Elana Mullaly - Jemima Patch-Taylor in the Studio, image supplied - Sofe Neuendorf in the Studio, image supplied

Sam Hilton ahead of The World’s Largest Ever Paddle Out

Samantha’s Book

Boy Swallows Universe

Title: Boy Swallows

Universe

Author: Trent Dalton

Price: $21.90

Distributor: Booktopia

By Samantha Elley

You may have already seen the Netfix series, but it is defnitely worth giving the book a read too.

Set in the early 1980s Eli Bell is just a normal kid with nothing like a normal upbringing.

Even his baby sitter isn’t normal, being the infamous Boggo Road escape artist, Slim Halliday.

Did Slim really kill that taxi-driver?

His brother doesn’t talk, his mother is in jail and his step-father, a local drug dealer, goes missing, so Eli and his brother, Gus, then have to go and live with their alcoholic father.

But what each of these characters has, is heart. They are fallible humans who are doing what they think is best,

Northern Rivers businesses urged to support community Christmas Carnival

Leading child welfare and care services

provider CASPA is inviting Northern Rivers businesses to support its frst ever Christmas Carnival extravaganza.

Thousands of people are expected to attend the special family event, which aims to bring the community together to embrace the magic of the season and spread hope during the current cost-of-living crisis.

features:

• Festive market stalls from local businesses selling unique and affordable Christmas gifts

• Live performances from local schools and musicians

• Rides and activities for children, including an infatable obstacle course, slide and jumping castle, and face painting

we use it as an allencompassing term that captures the many ways our community comes together over the summer months,” she said.

in the lead up to the giving season.

not least Eli, who wants to see his mum while she’s in jail just to tell her everything will be ok, and he goes to extraordinary lengths to see her.

Like all good comingof-age stories there are villains and good guys, pitfalls and triumphs as Eli and Gus learn to overcome some of their greatest challenges.

Boy Swallows Universe has won four Australian Book Industry Awards in 2019, including Book of the Year Award, the MUD Literary Prize 2019, UTS Glenda Adams Award for New Writing and Book of the Year at the 2019 Indie Book Awards. The story had me in instantly, notwithstanding the eighties are my decade, but the visual recreation of a time when telephones stayed put, money was cash and cars were boxy, was very real.

Trent Dalton has a unique writing style that translates his characters well.

You can order your copy of Boy Swallows Universe on booktopia. com.au

The carnival has already attracted sponsorship from Summerland Bank, the Commonwealth Bank, Newton Denny Chapelle, and Lean Finance - but additional support is needed and there is still time to get involved.

Taking place on November 30, 12pm to 7pm, at Lismore Turf Club, the event

• Food trucks and yummy treats

• Carnival games

Santa is also expected to put in a special appearance, riding high on the Lismore Rural Fire Service truck.

CASPA CEO Naarah Rodwell said the carnival promised to create lasting memories for families.

“When CASPA talks about Christmas,

“With our inaugural Christmas Carnival, we want to provide our community with an event that centralises joy and optimism as a source of resilience and connection. We want to bring our whole community together, regardless of background or culture, and provide hope at a time of year that can sometimes be challenging.

“In addition to community celebration and connection, this carnival provides a wonderful platform for local businesses to increase their visibility and maximise their sales

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Summerland Bank and our other generous sponsors, but we still need businesses to join us in bringing this magical event to life.”

CASPA has a variety of sponsorship packages available, starting from as little as $500 - all of which offer increased brand exposure and an opportunity to show your commitment to the community.

Interested businesses should contact: danni. walker@caspa.org.au

For all the details, or to buy a carnival ride pass, please visit Lismore Christmas Carnival Lismore Christmas Carnival (caspa.org.au)

Lismore South Public School Honoured at 2024 Resilient Australia Awards

Lismore South Public School has achieved national recognition, winning the 2024 Resilient Australia National School Award for its implementation of the MacKillop Seasons’ Stormbirds program. The prestigious award, announced on Wednesday in Canberra, celebrates community-driven initiatives that enhance resilience to disasters and emergencies across Australia.

The Resilient Australia Awards, managed by the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience, highlight innovative programs that promote preparedness, recovery, and community cohesion in the face of adversity. This year, two initiatives by MacKillop Seasons, including the Stormbirds program, stood out for their impact on communities affected by natural disasters in New South Wales and Victoria.

Building Resilience in Lismore

Assistant Principal Gaye Titcume of Lismore South Public School emphasized the

program’s transformative impact on students recovering from natural disasters.

“Students couldn’t wait for their turn to attend and wanted to be involved,” said Ms. Titcume. “When companions––those who deliver the program––came to the classroom door to gather their group, other children were asking when they could go. The

discussions extended beyond the sessions, helping both students and staff process the events that affected them, their families, and our community.”

A Sustainable Model for Community Recovery

The Stormbirds program, part of MacKillop Seasons’ offerings, equips children and young people with the tools to

navigate change and loss, fostering resilience in the aftermath of natural disasters.

Fiona McCallum, General Manager of MacKillop Seasons, praised the partnership with Lismore South Public School and celebrated the win.

“The beauty of Stormbirds and our other program, Seasons for Growth, lies in their ability to build

lifelong resilience skills. These programs are communitydriven, training local professionals to ensure sustainable delivery,” Ms. McCallum said.

With its success in Lismore, the program has drawn interest from other communities seeking to strengthen their capacity to support recovery and build resilience tailored to their unique challenges.

A Broader Impact Across Australia

The Stormbirds program’s success wasn’t limited to Lismore. Wendy Ronalds, Community Resilience Offcer in East Gippsland, won the Victoria state-level award for Mental Health and Wellbeing for delivering MacKillop Seasons programs in her region.

The increasing demand for MacKillop Seasons initiatives refects their effectiveness in supporting children and young people to manage change and loss in disaster-prone areas.

Looking Ahead

Principal Larissa Polak and Assistant Principal Gaye Titcume, along with representatives from MacKillop Seasons, proudly accepted the award in Canberra. This recognition underscores the critical role of community-driven programs in fostering resilience and recovery across Australia.

For more information on MacKillop Seasons’ Stormbirds and Seasons for Growth programs, visit MacKillop Seasons.

New Koala Zones Aim to Protect Byron Shire’s Iconic Wildlife

ROBERT HEYWARD

Byron Shire Council has introduced new Koala Zones on Broken Head Road, Coolamon Scenic Drive, and Coorabell Road near Federal, in an effort to reduce road strikes and protect local wildlife. These zones include vehicle-activated signs and painted road markings, encouraging drivers to slow down and stay alert for koalas and other native animals.

Why Koala Zones?

The selected roads are known hotspots for koalas, with multiple road strikes reported in these areas. Tragically, fve koalas have been hit on Broken Head

Road alone this year, including two beloved local males, “Moji” and “Braveheart.” The initiative aims to reduce these incidents and raise awareness among drivers.

“These areas are regularly used by koalas, and unfortunately, many have been killed by cars,” said Liz Caddick, Byron Shire Council’s Biodiversity Team Leader. “The new signs and road paint will remind drivers to slow down and look out for wildlife.”

How the Signs Work

The vehicle-activated signs are not speed cameras but serve as visual reminders:

• Green happy face: Drivers traveling under

70 km/h.

• Red sad face: Drivers exceeding the speed limit.

• Speed display: Drivers approaching 80 km/h receive a speed reminder.

The signs, funded through the NSW Koala Strategy, are part of a four-year program to

monitor the effects of these measures on driver behaviour and koala safety.

Community Collaboration

The project was developed in consultation with local wildlife carers from Bangalow Koalas and Friends of the Koala,

ensuring the zones target areas with frequent koala activity.

Bangalow Koalas President, Linda Sparrow, praised the initiative:

“It’s heartbreaking to see koalas being hit. Slowing down on our roads, especially at dawn and dusk, can make a huge difference. These zones are a big step toward protecting our precious wildlife.”

Year-Round Vigilance Needed

While wildlife can appear at any time, koalas are especially active from June to December, during breeding season. Drivers are encouraged to stay vigilant and reduce speeds, even in built-up

areas, as koalas often cannot escape oncoming vehicles in time.

Existing and Expanded Koala Zones

The new zones join existing ones on Mafeking Road and Bangalow Road, further extending efforts to create safer habitats for Byron Shire’s koala population.

Report Injured Koalas

If you see a sick or injured koala, contact Friends of the Koala at 6622 1233. The hotline operates 24/7 to provide urgent care. By slowing down and staying alert, residents and visitors can help protect one of Australia’s most iconic species.

IAN ROGERS

(L to R): Larissa Polak (Principal) and Gaye Titcume (Assistant Principal) of Lismore South Public School, joined by Louise Hall, Godelieve Hofman-Verkuyl, and Fiona McCallum (General Manager) of MacKillop Seasons.

Just be careful… by

Nigel Dawe

OUT of all the expressions you hear on any given day, the one you’re most likely to hear is “take care”, there is none more elevated bidding of adieu between friends, strangers or otherwise. To take care is the ultimate outlook or approach that any of us can ‘take’, albeit apply to whatever it is we are about to do.

Apparently, the expression originated in the 1580s (which is slap-bang in the middle of Shakespeare’s own time) he being personally responsible for the creation over 1,700 words and phrases in English; you wouldn’t be surprised if ‘take care’ was another verbal trophy he could well add to his already impressive linguistic cabinet. From ‘baseless’ to ‘majestic’ to ‘lacklustre’ to ‘dwindle’ to ‘swagger’ and ‘hurry’ – none of these words existed before the British Isles’ favourite son personally coined them.

The word ‘care’ itself though, stems from a much earlier time, it is believed to have originated from the old English word ‘carian’, which meant ‘to feel concern or interest; or to give serious attention.’ And serious attention through the pure expression of care, is what each of us ought to afford every single thing we do. As the Vietnamese Buddhist Thich Nhat Hahn once said, “Caring is the bridge that connects us to one another.” It also protects us from the potential hurt of ever feeling isolated or dismissed by a world that seems so quick to turn its back, when things go even slightly wrong.

Relatedly, the youngest-ever winner of a Nobel Peace Prize, Malala Yousafzai once explained, “Caring is

CHOICE Names Best and Worst Appliance Retailers for 2024

not limited by proximity or borders; it knows no boundaries.” It is arguably what makes us most human, not to mention being the trait par excellence of the finest individuals who have ever lived.

To care is to show your worth beyond any and all quantifiably-meagre metrics of worth, it is a spiritual quality of the highest order.

As if reiterating the benefits that seem to automatically endow those who lead caring lives, the author of The Power of Positive Thinking, Norman Vincent Peale once professed, “To be successful is to be helpful, caring, and constructive, to make everything and everyone you touch a little better.” Because, let’s face it, there are many ‘practitioners’ who go about their daily business in such a way as to locate themselves squarely in the ranks of the ‘It’s-all-about-me’ brigade. If only each of our captains of state and industry were chosen for their empathy, and not just for their ruthless compulsions to simply get to the top. True to her abolitionist principles, the American author and activist Harriet Beecher Stowe once said, “Caring for others is the highest expression of humanity.”

Which is an ideal that has paled none in the two centuries since it was expressed, if anything it has assumed more of a pressing need, so as to correct what could be construed as a modern-day culture defined by abject greed and self-interest. Or quite simply, as William Golding once so admirably discerned, “We [just] need more humanity, more care, more love.”

o Ease of Use: 84% (user-friendly website)

As Black Friday approaches, CHOICE has ranked Australia’s best and worst appliance stores based on customer feedback about factors such as customer service, product range, value for money, delivery, and after-sales service.

In a survey of 3,500 CHOICE supporters, two retailers stood out:

• Top Online Store: Appliances Online

• Top In-Store Retailer: E&S Trading On the fip side, Kogan and Big W received the lowest ratings for online and in-store experiences, respectively.

Best and Worst Online Appliance Retailers

Best: Appliances Online

• Overall Score: 86%

• Top Features:

o Delivery: 90%

(specifc delivery windows a highlight)

o Price Matching: Widely praised

o After-Sales Service: 77%

“Appliances Online dominated across all categories, with respondents praising its product range, ease of navigation, and standout delivery options,” said CHOICE Director of Reviews and Testing, Matthew Steen.

Worst: Kogan

• Overall Score: 59%

• Top Features:

o Product Range: 74%

o Value for Money: 70%

• Weak Points:

o After-Sales Service: 35%

o Delivery: 68%

“Kogan fell short in nearly every category, particularly aftersales service. Many respondents highlighted slow delivery and diffculties with customer

support,” Steen noted. Best and Worst In-Store Appliance Retailers

Best: E&S Trading

• Overall Score: 89%

• Top Features:

o After-Sales Service: 91%

o Customer Service: 88%

o Delivery: 89%

“E&S Trading’s commitment to customer satisfaction, particularly after-sales support, earned it the highest score among in-store retailers,” said Steen.

Note: E&S Trading primarily operates in Victoria and has one store in the ACT. For shoppers elsewhere, Retravision, Winnings, and Betta also received high marks for in-store experiences.

Worst: Big W

• Overall Score: 62%

• Top Features:

o Value for Money: 67%

• Weak Points:

o Customer Service:

50%

o Product Range: 57%

“Big W’s limited product range and poor customer service brought its scores down. Respondents reported challenges in fnding staff for assistance,” Steen said.

What This Means for Black Friday Shoppers “With the holiday shopping season upon us, these insights can help Australians make better decisions about where to shop for appliances,” Steen advised. “For a smooth shopping experience, Appliances Online and E&S Trading remain standout options, while shoppers may want to exercise caution with Kogan and Big W.” For more details and the full rankings, visit: Best and Worst Appliance Retailers 2024: www.choice.com. au/applianceretailers

IAN ROGERS

Growth Spurt for Lismore’s Community Gardens

IAN ROGERS

Lismore’s beloved Community Garden, a hub of hope and healing in the wake of the 2022 foods, has received a much-needed boost through Greater Bank’s Northern Rivers Community Funding Program. The volunteerled initiative, known for its lush produce and welcoming atmosphere, won the latest round of funding, aiding its mission to rejuvenate the gardens and nourish the community.

Rebuilding After the Floods

The foods devastated much of the garden’s infrastructure, including water tanks and solar panels. However, thanks to a dedicated group of 20 volunteers, the garden has slowly come back to life.

“Progress is slow, but our aim remains to nourish the community with food, socializing, and support,” said volunteer Rhonda.

“The gardens also

serve as a venue for community activities and gatherings.”

The volunteers also stock a ‘sharing table’ with fresh fruits, vegetables, and seedlings for locals to enjoy and grow in their own backyards.

A Community Effort

Greater Bank’s Regional Manager, Steph Smith, praised the volunteers for their dedication and highlighted the bank’s commitment to the region.

“Over the last three

years, we’ve donated over $100,000 to groups in the Northern Rivers region, all working to improve our communities,” she said. “The volunteers at Lismore Community Garden are incredibly generous with their time

and produce, and we’re thrilled to support their efforts.”

Rhonda also expressed her gratitude for the program’s impact.

“We rely on donations to keep the gardens sustainable, and we’re so grateful for this

support,” she said. “It’s a wonderful program that lets our community have a say in where the funds go.”

Call for New Volunteers

With plenty of work still to do, the Community Garden welcomes new members to join their team of volunteers. The group tends to the garden on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, though the space is always open for the public to enjoy.

Next Funding Round

The November round of the #GreaterNorthernRivers Community Funding Program offers another $3,000 in funding, with entrants including Lismore Preschool Incorporated, CFD Foundation Henry James Fund, and Ballina Little Athletics Inc. For more information or to support the Lismore Community Garden, stop by on a volunteer day or connect through the garden’s community events.

Lismor Community Garden team with Greater Bank representatives

LIAM JENNINGS

The Ryze Element Smart Ring is making waves as the latest innovation in wearable technology, combining sleek design with advanced health and ftness tracking capabilities. Crafted from durable nanoceramic and stainless steel, the lightweight ring is both stylish and functional, catering to a wide range of users.

Unveiled this month, the Ryze Element offers comprehensive health monitoring features, including real-time tracking of heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and body temperature. It also provides insights into cardiovascular health and tracks heart rate variability.

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate its ability to monitor steps, calories burned, workout distance, and duration.

Sleep tracking is another standout feature, analysing sleep patterns to optimize rest and recovery.

The ring’s menstrual tracking function adds a personalized touch, enabling users to log and predict cycles. For safety, the built-in SOS function allows users to

quickly contact a preset emergency number.

Beyond health metrics, the Ryze Element includes smart touch controls for managing music playback, phone cameras, and more, making it a versatile daily companion. Water-resistant up to 5 ATM, it is designed to withstand swimming and other activities.

The device boasts impressive battery life, lasting 4 to 6 days on a single charge, with a charging case that provides up to 40 additional charges. A quick-charge function ensures minimal downtime.

Available in sizes 8 to 13, the Ryze Element is now on sale via Ryze’s offcial website and major retailers such as JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman. Priced competitively, it’s positioned as an essential tool for those seeking to enhance their health and wellbeing with cutting-edge technology.

The Ryze Element Smart Ring represents a leap forward in wearables, seamlessly blending innovation with everyday practicality.

OPPO’s return to the Australian market after a two-year hiatus LIAM JENNINGS

The OPPO Find X8 Pro, launched in Australia on November 21, 2024, marks the brand’s return to the Australian market after a two-year hiatus. This fagship smartphone boasts a range of advanced features designed to enhance user experience.

Design and Display

The Find X8 Pro features a sleek design with a 6.78-inch AMOLED display, offering a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals. The screen achieves a peak brightness of 4500 nits, ensuring clear visibility even under direct sunlight.

Performance Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chipset, the device delivers robust performance suitable for multitasking and gaming. It comes equipped with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage, providing ample space for apps and

media.

Camera System

A standout feature is its quad-camera setup, developed in collaboration with Hasselblad. This includes four 50MP sensors: a wide-angle lens, an ultra-wide lens, and two periscope telephoto lenses offering 3x and 6x optical zoom. The AI Telescope Zoom enhances image quality at higher magnifcations, and the Lightning Snap feature captures bursts at up to seven frames per second, ideal for action shots.

Battery and Charging

The device houses a substantial 5910mAh silicon-carbon battery, supporting 80W SUPERVOOC wired charging and 50W AIRVOOC wireless charging. This setup allows for rapid charging and extended usage, with the battery capable of powering up to 24 hours of Netfix streaming or 23.4 hours of YouTube streaming.

Artifcial Intelligence

Features

The Find X8 Pro integrates AI capabilities powered by Google Gemini, offering features like AI Photo Remaster

For Advanced Outdoor Security LIAM JENNINGS

Arlo has launched its frst-ever wired foodlight camera, a signifcant addition to its lineup of outdoor security devices. The Arlo Wired Floodlight Camera, powered by continuous electricity, is designed to deliver superior protection with cutting-edge features. A standout in the security market, the camera captures crisp 2K HDR video, ensuring every detail is visible in recordings. Its wide 160-degree feld of view offers comprehensive coverage of outdoor spaces, while color night vision guarantees clear images even in low-light conditions. Combined with its adjustable foodlight, which emits up to 2,000 lumens of brightness, the camera not only captures activity but also deters unwanted visitors.

The Arlo Wired Floodlight Camera integrates seamlessly with leading smart home platforms, including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT. These integrations allow homeowners to automate their security setups and control the device with voice commands or through existing smart home ecosystems. Safety is further enhanced by the device’s built-in siren, which can be triggered manually

via the Arlo app or automatically when motion is detected. This feature adds an extra layer of deterrence for potential intruders. The foodlight also boasts DIY-friendly installation, connecting directly to existing electrical wiring for a reliable power source without the need for batteries.

Users can access live video streaming, two-way audio, and motion notifcations for free. However, for

for enhancing image clarity and removing refections. Additionally, AI tools assist with content summarization and workfow management, enhancing productivity.

Additional Features

The device includes a new Quick Button, similar to the iPhone 16’s Camera Control button, allowing for rapid camera access and zoom control. It also features Touch to Share, enabling easy fle transfers to iPhones via NFC.

Availability

The OPPO Find X8 Pro is available in Australia, with pricing and specifc availability details accessible through OPPO’s offcial channels and authorized retailers. Overall, the OPPO Find X8 Pro combines advanced camera technology, powerful performance, and innovative features, positioning it as a strong competitor in the fagship smartphone market.

those seeking advanced features, an Arlo Secure subscription unlocks benefts such as 30 days of cloud storage and custom alerts for specifc motion types, including people, vehicles, animals, and packages.

Subscription plans start at $7.99 per month, offering fexibility for varying security needs.

The Arlo Wired Floodlight Camera is now available for purchase on the Arlo website and through select retailers. With its robust features, it aims to set a new standard in outdoor security solutions, appealing to homeowners seeking enhanced protection and smart integration.

By providing highresolution video, reliable lighting, and seamless connectivity, the Arlo Wired Floodlight Camera promises to be a valuable tool in keeping properties secure.

Ryze Revolutionizes Wearable Health Tech

2025 Kia EV9 GT Unveiled: 375kW Powerhouse with Simulated Gear Shifts

JEFF GIBBS

The highly anticipated 2025 Kia EV9 GT, the most powerful electric SUV in Kia’s lineup, has fnally been revealed at the LA Motor Show, marking a new performance benchmark for the brand. This fagship model boasts cutting-edge technology, exceptional power, and unique design features, setting it apart from its siblings in the EV9 range.

Key Highlights

• Dual-Motor Powertrain: Produces 368kW and 700Nm of torque, with a boost mode temporarily increasing torque to 800Nm.

• Impressive Acceleration: 0–100km/h in just 4.3 seconds.

• Likely 99.8kWh Battery: Expected driving range exceeding 500km.

• PerformanceEnhanced Chassis: Includes an electronic limited-slip differential, electronically controlled dampers, and upgraded braking systems.

• Innovative Features: Simulated engine sounds and artifcial gear shifts for a tactile driving experience.

Performance Powerhouse

Performance Engineering

The EV9 GT delivers exceptional handling through a suite of performance-oriented upgrades:

JEFF GIBBS

Jeep Australia has confrmed plans to broaden its compact SUV lineup with petrol and hybrid versions of the all-new Avenger, complementing its recently launched fully electric (BEV) model. The move could see more affordable options entering the local market soon.

The EV9 GT features a dual-motor electric powertrain with 368kW in standard confguration, a signifcant leap from the 283kW of the current EV9 GT-Line. Boost mode adds even more power, delivering 800Nm of torque for short bursts. Despite a detuned combined output compared to the smaller EV6 GT, the EV9 GT achieves a rapid 4.3-second sprint from 0 to 100km/h. The advanced powertrain is underpinned by Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), integrating 800V high-voltage architecture for ultra-fast charging capabilities. While offcial range fgures for the GT are yet to be confrmed, it is expected to match or exceed the 500km mark seen in other E-GMP models.

distribution for improved cornering and traction.

• Electronically Controlled Dampers: Tuned for adaptive, highperformance driving dynamics.

• Upgraded Braking System: Larger discs enhance stopping power, paired with an all-wheeldrive system ensuring traction across both axles.

Exclusive Design and Features

The EV9 GT’s bold design includes:

• GT-Specifc Enhancements: Distinctive bumpers, unique badging, and exclusive wheel designs.

• Electronic LimitedSlip Differential (eLSD): Optimizes power

• Enhanced Interior: Seats with improved lateral support, exclusive trim materials, and custom ambient lighting confgurations. The cabin retains Kia’s

signature widescreen display setup, combining:

• A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

• A 12.3-inch central touchscreen.

• A supplementary display panel for additional controls.

Connectivity features include over-the-air software updates and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), ensuring the EV9 GT stays at the forefront of technology.

Simulated Driving Experience

Inspired by the smaller Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, the EV9 GT incorporates simulated engine sounds and artifcial gear shifts, offering a tactile and auditory experience that mimics traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.

Australian Availability and Pricing

Details of the EV9 GT’s Australian launch are yet to be confrmed, but it is expected to arrive in 2025. Pricing is speculative, but given the GT-Line starts at $120,000, the GT is likely to exceed $130,000–$140,000. Kia’s local arm has expressed strong interest in bringing the model to market.

The 2025 Kia EV9 GT represents a bold step forward in electric performance SUVs, combining cutting-edge technology, thrilling performance, and luxurious features to redefne expectations in the segment.

Petrol and Hybrid Jeep Avenger Headed for Australia

Speaking at the Avenger EV launch, Stellantis Australia product manager Bridget Thomson hinted at the possibility of additional powertrains. “We’re excited to launch the BEV but wouldn’t rule out future powertrain enhancements,” Thomson said. While declining to confrm specifc options, she teased the potential for

petrol and hybrid variants, including the mild hybrid and fourwheel-drive 4xe hybrid available in Europe. Currently priced between $49,990 and $60,990 (before on-road costs), the Avenger EV targets the competitive small SUV segment dominated by the likes of the MG ZS. Introducing petrol and hybrid options could offer more affordable alternatives and boost Jeep’s market share in Australia.

The Avenger’s journey to Australia wasn’t straightforward, requiring signifcant lobbying to convince former global Jeep CEO Christian

Meunier of its suitability for the local market.

“It’s smaller than other cars here, which took some convincing, but we knew it would work for Australia,” Thomson revealed.

While no timeline has been set for the introduction of petrol or hybrid Avengers, Thomson noted that such approvals vary widely. However, with small SUVs remaining popular in Australia and EV sales showing signs of slowing, expanding the Avenger lineup could prove a smart strategy.

Jeep’s push to diversify its offerings aligns with recent efforts to expand its powertrain options. “We’ve made a conscious effort to give more people more choice,” Thomson said,

citing the Compass (available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid) and the Grand Cherokee (offered in ICE and plug-in hybrid) as examples.

With the addition

of petrol and hybrid Avengers, Jeep is poised to attract a broader audience and strengthen its foothold in Australia’s competitive small SUV market.

Minns Labor Government Urges Businesses to Self-

Report

and Safeguard Worker Entitlements

IAN ROGERS

The Minns Labor Government is calling on businesses to self-report and address worker entitlement issues, reinforcing its commitment to protecting employee rights in New South Wales.

This push follows an investigation by the Inspectorate in NSW Industrial Relations, part of the Premier’s Department, into long service leave compliance at supermarket giant Coles. The Inspectorate had sought information

regarding Coles’ adherence to the Long Service Leave Act 1955.

As a result of the audit, Coles identifed $1.582 million in unpaid long service leave entitlements affecting 10,698 employees, including 6,346 current and 4,352 former workers. Some employees will receive up to $8,100 in back payments.

The underpayment stemmed from errors in calculating ordinary pay, where allowances and bonuses were not properly factored in.

In response, Coles has recalculated and

Gold Coast Emerges as Economic Powerhouse

Outpacing Nation’s Capitals

The Gold Coast’s population, currently at 666,000, is forecast to reach one million by 2040.

The Gold Coast is solidifying its position as a national leader in economic growth, with a new report revealing it outpaced all mainland capital cities in 2023. The Gold Coast Economic Outlook 2024, launched during Gold Coast Business Week, highlights the city’s rapid rise, driven by diversifcation, population growth, and robust business investment.

Exceptional Economic Growth

The report shows the Gold Coast’s Gross Regional Product (GRP) grew by 3% in 2023, almost double the forecast of 1.6%, making it Australia’s fastest-growing economy in the post-pandemic era. This positions the city ahead of Greater Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, and the Australian Capital Territory in GRP growth.

Between 2021 and 2023, the Gold Coast achieved a cumulative

reimbursed affected workers while implementing signifcant changes to its payroll processes. The company has also committed to investing in its payroll systems to ensure full compliance with NSW Industrial Relations’ requirements moving forward.

This case highlights the importance of businesses maintaining compliance with NSW legislation.

The government encourages employers to proactively self-report systemic non-compliance to NSW Industrial Relations to avoid similar issues.

Premier Chris Minns emphasized the signifcance of businesses taking responsibility for their workers’ entitlements, ensuring fair treatment, and avoiding the potential pitfalls of

payroll mismanagement.

For more information on Long Service Leave entitlements in NSW, visit the QR code below.

Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis says:

“The NSW Government is committed to ensuring workers receive their correct entitlements.

“This outcome is a reminder to employers, big and small, to make sure they are following

the rules and that they can proactively selfreport non-compliance to NSW Industrial Relations.

“I would like to acknowledge Coles’ commitment to ensuring they pay long service leave correctly.” https://www. industrialrelations. nsw.gov.au/employers/ nsw-employer-essentials/ long-service-leaveentitlement-nsw/

growth rate of 5.5%, more than double Sydney and Melbourne’s 2.5%, and exceeding Brisbane’s 4.5%. The city’s economy is now valued at $45.38 billion, surpassing forecasts by $630 million.

Per Capita Productivity

The Gold Coast’s economic contribution per capita stands at $68,134, exceeding forecasts by 13%. This impressive fgure is attributed to increased effciency and a growing number of high-income residents.

Diverse and Resilient Economy

Mayor Tom Tate attributes the city’s economic success to its diversifed economy, strong population growth, and record employment levels.

“The Gold Coast has become much more than just a tourism destination,” says Tate. “Our city offers diverse employment opportunities, strong business investment incentives, and a favourable environment for economic activity,

creating a sustainable cycle of growth.”

• Employment growth surged 6.93% in 2023, driven by new businesses relocating to the region and existing ones expanding.

• The Gold Coast’s population, currently at 666,000, is forecast to reach one million by 2040.

The city’s diversifed economy provides resilience against sector-specifc downturns, enabling faster recovery from economic shocks, such as those experienced during the pandemic.

A National Leader in GRP Growth

The Gold Coast is poised to maintain its economic momentum, with the report forecasting 10.07% GRP growth between 2024 and 2028, outpacing Greater Brisbane (9.04%), Queensland (7.93%), and the national average (7.9%).

Business Confdence and Investment

The city leads in business capital reinvestment, recording a 13.3% reinvestment rate in 2023 compared to negative rates in Greater Brisbane and Queensland. By 2028, this rate is projected to climb to 14.3%, signifcantly outpacing Brisbane (5.47%) and the national average (9.2%).

“Reinvestment signals confdence in future growth prospects and enhances productivity, driving overall economic output,” the report states. Sectoral Growth Highlights Technology

• Leading economic growth with a 50% growth rate in 2023, up from 20% in 2021.

• Forecast to grow by over 90% annually by 2028.

Screen Industry

• The flm and television sector is projected to grow by over 40% annually by 2028, supported by city-led

initiatives like a Creative Industries Precinct in Miami and new flm studios at Yatala.

Sports

• Growth set to double from 30% in 2023 to over 70% annually by 2028.

Professional Services

• Driven by population and business growth, this sector is on track to become the third-fastestgrowing industry in the region.

Legacy Industries

• Tourism, Manufacturing, and Health remain critical to the economy despite slower growth, contributing signifcant dollar value to the region.

Case Study: Ryan Aerospace

Gold Coast-based Ryan Aerospace, a leading developer of high-tech flight simulators, demonstrates the city’s innovation-driven growth.

The company, which won the 2024 Queensland Premier’s Export Award in Advanced

Technologies, recently made major capital investments to enhance supply chain control and productivity.Positioning for the Future

The report emphasizes the Gold Coast’s competitive advantage due to its untapped economic capacity compared to larger cities.

“While cost-ofliving pressures are felt nationwide, the Gold Coast mitigates these through diverse employment opportunities and strong business growth,” says Mayor Tate. “It’s no surprise the Gold Coast continues to attract investment, residents, and visitors.”

With its robust growth trajectory, diversifed economy, and strategic investments, the Gold Coast is well-positioned to sustain its momentum and redefne itself as a key player on Australia’s economic map.

IAN ROGERS

DECEMBER

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

CHEEKY CABARET CHRISTMAS

‘Tis the season to be CHEEKY! And we’ve got your Christmas party all sorted! What better way to celebrate this silliest of all seasons by throwing your Christmas do, right here at the biggest party in town?

The reputation of our outrageous genrebending show has spread like wildfre with its often weird and always

fabulous line-up — a new cast each season. This is without question the wildest night you’ll have in the Northern Rivers!

Back for two weeks along with special weekend matinee sessions!

ABOUT THE CHEEKY…

In a beautiful, sleepy beach town called

Brunswick Heads sits a theatre that sat empty for over 30 years…. And it’s here in this unlikely little venue where some magic really happens.

This town had no idea what to expect when the Brunswick Picture House fung open its doors in Easter 2016 with its adult variety show, the CHEEKY CABARET. It has

FREE COMMUNITY FUN DAY

Free Community Fun Day is brought to you by local churches and community and sponsored by The Tweed Shire Council.

This is a fun day for all with free music, games, activities, competitions, food etc.

This event is held annually on the frst Saturday of December. This year it will

redefned a night out at the theatre, smashing together circus, vaudeville, comedy, new burlesque and everything in between. It’s since established its reputation here in the Shire, selling out every season and attracting international artists who would ordinarily play much bigger stages.

The Cheeky features a different cast of troubadours, miscreants, delectable divas and cabaret queens every season, so no two shows are ever the same! You’ll leave spellbound, titillated and amazed. As always, bring Grandma but leave the little ones at home.

Think you’ve seen it all?! Think again… AND JUST ONE MORE THING…

Each season of the Cheeky Cabaret features a different cast of performers and different acts. The Cheeky may contain some brief or full nudity, raucous adult language and highly suggestive or sexual humour. The acts are never gratuitous or in vain; they are intended to titillate, to make your jaws drop, and always to entertain, with

be Saturday the 7th December 3-7pm NSW time at Jack Evans Harbour.

So come along with the family and have a free day out with us.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 7th of Dec @3pm

• Where: Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Tweed Heads

• Price: Free

tongue frmly planted in cheek. A variety show like the Cheeky means that there is something for everyone, and conversely, some acts may not be to your liking. You may wish to cover your eyes or your ears, but never ever don’t at least give the Cheeky a try!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: From 5th-15th of Dec

• Where: Brunswick Picture House

• Price: From $30

Brisbane CBD Apartment

Central location to everything in Brisbanes CBD - 1 bedroom apartment with parking, swimming pool, gym and sauna. Now available over

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 In 1960, which duo had a hit with the song, Cathy’s Clown? (a) Jan and Dean (b) The Righteous Brothers (c) Peaches and Herb (d) The Everly Brothers

2 Which Latin phrase means ‘Let the buyer beware’?

(a) Ne plus ultra (b) Caveat emptor (c) Incepto ne desistam (d) Stricto sensu

3 How many US states have names that start with the letter, N?

(a) Five (b) Six (c) Seven (d) Eight

4 Whitcomb L. Judson is best known as the inventor of which common item?

(a) Biro (b) Lipstick (c) Disposable razor (d) Zipper

5 Victoria Falls is located on the border of which two countries?

(a) Zambia, Zimbabwe (b) Tanzania, Kenya (c) Angola, Namibia (d) South Africa, Botswana

6 Which country was chosen to host the 2026 Winter Olympics?

(a) Canada (b) Sweden (c) Japan (d) Italy

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 AURAL

(a) Yielding gold

(b) Pertaining to the ear

(c) Fresh and beautiful

2 INDOMITABLE

(a) That cannot be distinguished

(b) Not to be overcome

(c) Not docile

3 MYALGIA

(a) An acacia with hard, scented wood

(b) West Indies African witchcraft

(c) Pain in muscle

4 OSTENTATIOUS

(a) Refusing to face unpleasant facts

(b) Given to show

(c) Forming a connecting link

5 RACONTEUR

(a) A dish of melted cheese and jacket potatoes

(b) A teller of anecdotes

(c) A radar beacon

PUZZLES

and New Years but hurry.

BYRON BAY FLOORSANDING 0408 536 565

TEN, 7.30pm

This adorable addition from Pixar about the power of friendship is sure to become a family favourite. Luca (voice of Jacob Tremblay) is a sea monster with the ability to transform into a human on land. When he meets fellow monster Alberto (Jack Dylan Grazer), who lives on the surface, Luca is emboldened to step out of the water and into the bright Italian city of Portorosso. As the pair explore the world together, they discover a love of pasta, cycling and best of all: Vespas! Set on the Italian Riviera, it’s a sumptuous visual feast that will make viewers yearn for coastal holidays.

FRIDAY, December 6

MONDAY

FIVE BEDROOMS

TEN, 9.30pm

Life, love and work are getting more complicated than ever for the close-knit co-owners as this stellar Aussie dramedy inches closer to its conclusion. Doctor Harry (Roy Joseph) is usually the voice of reason for his housemates, but in “SeventyTwo Hours” he nds himself in need of their help after a spectacular, potentially career-ending indiscretion comes to light. Lawyer Liz (Kat Stewart) jumps in with a solution, but it requires both a little “creative” testimony from Anton (Matthew Backer) and keeping Harry’s mum Manju (Kumud Merani) at arm’s length. Meanwhile, Ben (Stephen Peacocke) and Heather (Doris Younane) intervene when Ainsley (Katie Robertson, pictured right) hurts Simmo’s (Johnny Carr) feelings.

THURSDAY FAKE OR FORTUNE?

ABC TV, 9pm

Combining art history lessons, thrilling mysteries and the latest in forensic science, this intriguing series, recently renewed for a 13th season, sees “art detectives”

Fiona Bruce and Philip Mould (both pictured above) decipher whether works of art are priceless pieces lost for decades or very crafty copies. This 11th edition commences in the Essex countryside on the trail of renowned British sculptor and printmaker Elisabeth Frink. After buying a bronze sculpture at a car boot sale for £90, Colchester resident Amanda Kirke found it matched the “Small Warrior” produced by Frink in 1956. With Kirke’s purchase worth £10 in scrap metal or a potential £60,000, the art detectives take on the case – is this Amanda’s lucky day?

ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (6) TEN (5) NBN (8, 80)

6.00 News. 9.00 ABC News Mornings.

10.00 Back Roads. (R) 10.25 I Was Actually There. (PG, R) 11.00 Fake Or Fortune? (Final, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Shetland. (Madl, R) 2.00 Maggie Beer’s Big Mission. (R)

3.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 3.30 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.15 Grand Designs: The Streets. (PG, R) 5.05 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10 For The Love Of Dogs. (PG, R) 10.05 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGl, R) 11.00 World’s Greatest Sporting Arenas. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.05 Exploring Northern Ireland. (PGl, R) 3.10 Dishing It Up. (PGls, R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 The Supervet. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Fatal Frenemies. (2021, Mav, R) 2.00 Test Cricket: Pre-Game Show. 3.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Afternoon session. 5.00 Test Cricket: The Lunch Break. 5.40 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Late afternoon session.

6.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia.

8.30 Shetland. (Mal) Tosh worries Harry and Donnie with her pursuit of a controversial new theory.

9.30 Question Everything. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson and Jan Fran.

10.00 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

10.35 The Cleaner. (Mal, R)

11.35 ABC Late News.

11.50 Would I Lie To You? (PG, R)

12.20 Grand Designs: The Streets. (Ml, R)

1.10 The Kingdom: The World’s Most Powerful Prince. (Ma, R)

2.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Every Family Has A Secret. (Ma, R)

8.30 Nicole Kidman, Eyes Wide Open. (Malns, R) Takes a look at Nicole Kidman.

9.35 Kennedy. 10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Elvira. (PGa)

12.30 The Wall: The Orchard. (Malsv, R)

2.05 Employable Me (UK) (PGal, R)

3.10 Love Your Home And Garden With Alan Titchmarsh. (PGa, R)

4.05 Peer To Peer. (R)

4.35 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3.15pm Wiggle. 3.30 Play School. 4.00 Andy’s Global Adventures. 4.15 Fireman Sam. 4.40 Builder Brothers Dream Factory. 5.20 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.05 Kangaroo Beach. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars: Battle Of The Stars. 9.55 Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs.

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Late afternoon session.

7.40 Test Cricket: Tea Break. Takes a look at the day of play so far in the Second Test Match between Australia and India.

8.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Evening session. From Adelaide Oval.

10.30 The Boy From Macksville. (PG) Celebrates the career of Phillip Hughes.

12.00 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

12.30 Taken. (Mav, R) Hart must nd a way to stop a leak.

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

7TWO (62)

12.30pm The Wrestlers. 2.20 Tiny Beautiful Things. 2.55 Planet A. 3.50 BBC News At Ten. 4.20 ABC World News Tonight. 4.45 PBS News. 5.45 Joy Of Painting. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 A League Of Their Own Road Trip: SE Asia. 9.25 Secrets Of Miss America. 10.15 Homeland. 12.05am Better Things. 1.30 King Of The Road. 3.10 The Wrestlers. 4.05 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00

4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. (Return) 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The Christmas Setup. (2020, PGl, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Find My Beach House Australia. (Return) Hosted by Shelley Craft.

8.30 MOVIE: The Accountant. (2016, MA15+alv, R) A maths genius who works as an accountant for high-rolling criminals is pursued by both agents of the Treasury Department and hit men in the employ of one of his paranoid clients who is determined to silence him. Ben A eck, Anna Kendrick, J.K. Simmons.

11.00 MOVIE: Triple 9. (2016, MA15+lv, R)

1.00 Our State On A Plate. (PG)

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 Summer. (PG, R)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

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

7.30 MOVIE: Luca. (2021, G) On the Italian Riviera, a young boy experiences an unforgettable summer with a new best friend who harbours a secret. Jacob Tremblay, Jack Dylan Grazer. 9.30 Matlock. (PGad, R) A big class-action case against the prison system hits close to home. Matty plays matchmaker with Sarah and a girl from IT.

10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather.

10.55 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

(52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32)

(83) 6am Fill The Void. Continued. (2012, PG, Hebrew) 7.00 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 8.55 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 10.35 St. Vincent. (2014, M) 12.30pm French Exit. (2020, M) 2.35 The Movie Show. 3.10 The 400 Blows. (1959, PG, French) 5.05 The Importance Of Being Earnest. (2002) 6.45 Discovering Film: Maggie Smith. 7.40 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 9.30 Amadeus. (1984) 12.25am Vampire Seeking Consenting Person. (2023, French) 2.05 Late Programs.

6am Children’s Programs. Noon Gossip Girl. 2.00 I Dream Of Jeannie. 2.30 Bewitched. 3.00 The Golden Girls. 3.30 The Nanny. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: The Lord Of The Rings: The Fellowship Of The Ring. (2001, M) 11.05 MOVIE: A Walk Among The Tombstones. (2014, MA15+) 1.10am The Nanny. 2.10 Life After Lockup. 3.00 Bakugan. 3.30 Beyblade X. 4.00 Transformers: Prime. 4.30 Ninjago. 4.50 Late Programs. 6am The Fishing Show By AFN. 7.00 Step Outside. 7.30 Creek To Coast. 8.00 America’s Game. 9.00 A Football Life. 10.00 Blokesworld.

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

Enjoy good times in the Brisbane

TARGET TIME

F S E

S A L

U

L T

Today’s target: 22 words average 30 words good

38+ 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

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Auspac Media

With the Sun, Mercury and Mars shining in fellow fire signs, you’re in Ram freedom-bunny mode! Plus, indulgent Venus and restless Uranus rev up your extravagant, spontaneous side, so you’re in the mood to shop up a storm. But – with Mercury in retro mode – big spending now could lead to big regrets later on. You could also receive confusing information about a relative, friend or neighbour. Do some stringent fact checking and be extra patient.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Intuition and creativity are highlighted this week, as Venus (your power planet) links up with mystical, magical Neptune. But expect some frustrations and restrictions along the way, as Mercury reverses through one of your finance zones. Clever Bulls will be extra patient and disciplined – especially involving money, budgeting and business matters. Things should improve at work, as Venus transits through your career zone from Saturday until January 3.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

This week Mercury (your patron planet) and the Sun highlight romance, marriage, friendship, business partnerships and joint ventures as you mix and mingle with a wide range of people. But with Mercury retrograde until December 15-16, be careful how you communicate with family, friends and work colleagues. Otherwise, you could come across as being careless, restless and superficial. Strive to be extra patient, disciplined and diplomatic.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Have you been wasting time worrying and procrastinating? The Sun and retro Mercury link up in your job zone, so you need to reboot your daily routine and be flexible as you plan your future career path. If you are patient and have the confidence to listen to your wise inner voice, then you’ll be one step ahead of the professional pack! Creativity can also take you places at work. Use positive affirmations and active imagination to transition to the next level.

The focus is on friends, as the Sun and retrograde Mercury move through your friendship zone. But don’t let your peer group influence you too much. The planets encourage being your own person and doing your own thing. So, your motto for the week is from birthday great, singer-songwriter

Jim Morrison: “A friend is someone who gives you total freedom to be yourself.” Creativity is high mid-week, but don’t let your tendency to gossip come between you and others.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Mercury (your patron planet) is retrograde until December 15-16, so communication and travel will be affected, especially involving family and work. Expect some of the following – dodgy deadlines, delays, disruptions, mix-ups, misunderstandings, back-flips and breakdowns, reversals and recalls. However, Mercury retrograde IS a good time to do things with an ‘re’ in front of them … revise, rehearse, review, remember, reboot, return, recover and reconnect.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Some Librans will feel listless and restless, but holidays and adventures could be thin on the ground as retro Mercury opposes Jupiter (in your travel zones) which could frustrate holiday plans and slow things down. Don’t despair! Have fun closer to home and plan to explore further afield after Mercury turns direct on December 15-16. Be patient and keep your options open. Midweek is a creative and intuitive time when Venus forms a lovely link with Neptune.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

With Venus in your communication zone until Saturday, you’re in the mood for stimulating conversations with a wide range of interesting, compatible people within your extended peer group. However, Mercury is retrograde and Pluto (your ruling planet) hooks up with Venus, so relationships will be bumpy and very intense, especially with relatives and housemates. Smart Scorpios will slow down and concentrate on cooperating and compromising.

The Sun and retrograde Mercury are visiting your sign (and opposing your ruler Jupiter) so you’re in restless, reckless, adventurous, freedom-loving mode. Limiting rules, regulations and restrictions won’t be welcome! But slow down, otherwise you could be involved in a misunderstanding, argument or accident. Inspiring quote is from singer-songwriter (and birthday great) Jim Morrison: “The most important kind of freedom is to be what you really are.”

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19) Venus is visiting your sign for most of the week, which is great for charming others and attracting luck. Which you’ll need in spades because Saturn (your ruling planet) squares the Sun and retrograde Mercury, so it will be a stop/ start, one step forwards/two steps back kind of week. If you’re a clever Capricorn, you’ll calibrate your plans, expectations, and energy levels accordingly, especially involving communication, education and your local community.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) The courageous Sun and creative Mercury are visiting your hopes and wishes zone. So, it’s important to dream a dream, turn it into a goal, and then make it happen. But Mercury is in retrograde mode, so you’ll have to be patient. Your motto is from birthday great Walt Disney (who was born on December 5, 1901): “All your dreams can come true, if you have the courage to pursue them.” Venus shifts into Aquarius on Saturday, which is good for love and luck. PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Mercury is reversing through your career zone (until December 15-16) so be extra patient and diligent at work. The more you help others, the more positive and productive you’ll feel. With Venus visiting your networking zone (until Saturday) it’s also time to communicate and connect with family, friends, colleagues, clients and/or customers. You have the ability to influence people in positive ways, as you employ encouragement and praise to get others on-side.

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

Suburban Superheroes Costume-Making Workshop

Unleash your creativity to fnd the everyday superheroes in all of us!

Led by neurodivergent artist Sarah Lewis (Lewis), this workshop offers a playful exploration of costume design and character development, celebrating the everyday hero within.

Participants will have the chance to create their own superhero persona and design custom costumes that bring their vision to life. All materials are provided, and the workshop fosters an environment rich in creativity, collaboration, and fun.

Expect to craft signature pieces like a headpiece, belt, or accessory that

showcases your unique superpower. This inclusive workshop is open to everyone—plus, special guest Supers from the Suburban Superheroes exhibition may even drop in to lend a hand!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Sunday 8th of Dec @10am

• Where: Ignite Studios, Ballina

• Price: From $35

A DECADE OF DANCE

MMDance 2024 Cast

Proudly Presents ‘A Decade of Dance’.

Join us in celebrating our 10th annual concert and 10 years of MMDance. This show will take you on a trip down memory lane and pay tribute to the past 10 incredible years.

FIRST HALF SHOWA Decade of Dance.

SECOND HALF SHOW - Variety Dance Spectacular.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: 7th & 8th of Dec

• Where: University Road, Lismore

• Price: From $25

A Christmas Carol

By Charles Dickens Adapted and created by Shake & Stir Theatre Co.

Award-winning stage spectacle – Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol – is returning to QPAC’s Playhouse this December. A Christmas Carol is a magical, grand-in-scale production brimful of song, humour, love, and lashings of festive joy – perfect for the entire family.

It’s Christmas Eve and Ebenezer Scrooge is counting down the seconds until the silliness of the season passes. Deeply entrenched in his own misery, Scrooge receives a visit from four ghosts who whisk him away on a journey through Christmases past, present and future. Here, he revisits fragments of his life and is faced with

a number of choices. Redemption is his for the taking – but is Old Scrooge capable of changing his ways before it’s too late?

Complete with live music, yule-tide carolling, innovative video design, lavish costumes and, of course, snow, A Christmas Carol, is quite simply “the most uplifting theatrical experience you’ll have this year”

BJORN AGAIN! WATERLOO ANNIVERSARY TOUR

Celebrate 50 years of ABBA’s iconic Eurovision win with “Waterloo” and honour this monumental moment in music history and ABBA’s timeless legacy!

Get ready to celebrate the golden jubilee of ABBA’s historic Eurovision Song Contest victory in 1974 with “Waterloo” – a moment that changed music history forever and catapulted ABBA into the hearts and minds of music lovers across the globe!

Join Bjorn Again on their Waterloo Anniversary Tour in 2024, as they celebrate this iconic milestone, bringing the timeless magic of ABBA to fans all over the world. The stage will come alive with dazzling lights, iconic costumes, and an infectious energy that will have you grooving from the frst beat. You won’t just hear the

music; you’ll feel the spirit of ABBA in every note.

Australia’s own Bjorn Again is a globally recognised show and has performed in over 120 countries to critical acclaim. Endorsed by the original members of ABBA, they’re hailed as the most successful tribute show of all time. Prepare to be transported to the golden era of disco, where platforms were high,

and the music was even higher. This is your chance to become a “Dancing Queen” or a “Super Trouper” for a night of pure nostalgia and non-stop fun.

Rolling Stone Magazine, USA hails them as “Fabulously fawless,” and Time Out Magazine New York raves, “One of the most entertaining live shows in the world today.” But this isn’t just hype – it’s the truth!

Sing along to timeless hits like “Waterloo”, “Mamma Mia,” “Take a Chance on Me,” “Dancing Queen” and more! So dust off your disco attire, gather your friends, and get ready for a night you’ll never forget. It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate 50 years since ABBA’s Eurovision Song Contest triumph and the beloved music of ABBA in the most spectacular way.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 7th of Dec @8pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: $69

Best

NSW Destinations to Avoid the School Holiday Crowds

As school holidays roll around, popular destinations in New South Wales (NSW) like the Blue Mountains, and Bondi Beach transform into bustling hubs. But for travellers seeking tranquillity away from the crowds, NSW offers a treasure trove of quieter alternatives. Whether you’re after serene beaches, hidden mountain retreats, or charming country escapes, here are some of the best destinations in NSW to enjoy peace and relaxation during school holiday periods.

1. Seal Rocks

Tucked away on the mid-north coast, Seal Rocks is a haven for those seeking pristine beaches and a laid-back vibe. Unlike its busier coastal counterparts, this sleepy village remains delightfully uncrowded even during peak seasons. Spend your days swimming or snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, exploring Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, or relaxing on secluded beaches like Boat Beach and Treachery Beach. With limited commercial development, Seal Rocks offers a true escape into nature.

2. Kangaroo Valley

Nestled in the Shoalhaven region, Kangaroo Valley is one of NSW’s best-kept secrets. Surrounded by lush rainforests and rolling green hills, this charming valley offers a tranquil retreat far removed from the usual holiday chaos.

Activities like kayaking on the Kangaroo River, exploring Fitzroy Falls, or visiting quaint local markets provide a blend of relaxation and adventure. Accommodation options range from cozy cabins to luxury farm stays, ensuring a peaceful getaway.

3. Hat Head

Located within Hat Head National Park on the mid-north coast, this small coastal village is a slice of paradise. Far from the crowds of busier seaside towns, Hat Head offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by pristine beaches and lush bushland. Spend your days fshing, surfng, or hiking the trails that wind through the park, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. With its serene ambiance and unspoiled natural beauty, Hat Head is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.

4. Mudgee

For wine lovers and foodies, Mudgee provides an idyllic rural retreat without

the throngs of holidaymakers. Located about 3.5 hours northwest of Sydney, Mudgee is renowned for its boutique wineries, farm-to-table dining, and stunning landscapes. Tour local vineyards, sample gourmet produce, and enjoy a stroll through the historic town centre. With its relaxed pace and abundance of activities, Mudgee is perfect for a stress-free getaway.

5. Bellingen

This charming riverside town near Coffs Harbour combines natural beauty with a vibrant arts and culture scene. Known for its lush surroundings, including Dorrigo National Park and the Promised Land swimming holes, Bellingen is a great alternative to busier regional centres. Explore the town’s galleries and cafes, take a scenic drive through the Waterfall Way, or unwind with a paddle along the Bellinger River.

Insider Tips for Avoiding Crowds

• Visit during weekdays: Even in school holidays, weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.

• Stay off the beaten path: Opt for smaller towns or less commercialized regions to avoid large crowds.

• Book early: Accommodations in quieter areas fll up fast during peak periods, so secure your spot early.

• Explore national parks: Many parks, like Myall Lakes or Barrington Tops, offer secluded spots and fewer visitors.

Final Thoughts NSW is brimming with hidden gems that let you sidestep the hustle and bustle of school holiday crowds. From the unspoiled beaches of Seal Rocks to the tranquil valleys of Kangaroo Valley and the cultural charm of Bellingen, there’s a peaceful retreat for every type of traveller. So pack your bags, take the road less travelled, and discover the quieter side of NSW.

Corporate Apartment & House Accommodation

LIAM JENNINGS

NSW Government Invests $100,000 in Men’s Mental Health Initiative

LIAM JENNINGS

The NSW Government has announced a $100,000 contribution to support The Man Walk Australia, a charity dedicated to improving men’s mental health through physical activity and social connection.

The Man Walk Australia addresses mental health challenges and suicide risks by fostering supportive relationships and promoting physical and mental well-being. The program encourages men to participate in regular walks, offering a space to connect with like-minded individuals, combat isolation, and build a sense of community.

With 40 locations across NSW, including many in regional areas such as Albury in the south and Tenterfeld in the north, The Man Walk Australia continues to expand its reach, helping more men feel supported and less alone.

Support

If you or someone you know is experiencing a personal crisis or

distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14, 13YARN on 13 92 76, Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

The NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 is available 24/7 for advice and connection to local specialist mental health services for you or a loved one. You can also call the Transcultural Mental Health Line on 1800 648 911 9am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday.

For more information on The Man Walk Australia, including to fnd a walk near you or start one of your own, visit themanwalk.com. au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“The Man Walk Australia creates a welcoming environment for men to get together, feel a part of a community and get active.

“This has a positive effect on mental health, so I’m delighted to be able to provide The Man Walk with this additional

funding that will help the charity reach even more men in NSW.

“We know men tend to seek help for their mental health at a lower rate than women, especially in traditional settings, so it is important we strengthen communitybased supports, such as those offered by The Man Walk.

“By breaking down barriers and creating a positive environment free from stigma or pressure, The Man Walk helps men feel comfortable in accessing support.

“I know The Man Walk offer a walk in my electorate in Bellambi, but they have a range of locations spanning the whole of the state and are looking to add more.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson:

“Suicide is the leading cause of death for men aged 15-44 and we know that loneliness and social isolation are major contributors to mental health distress.

“Community organisations like The

Man Walk can offer an essential lifeline for men who are struggling and may not feel confdent to reach out for support.

“These organisations provide a positive space for men to spend time together, have regular and healthy conversations and feel less alone.”

Quotes attributable to Founder and CEO of The Man Walk Australia Mark Burns:

“The Man Walk charity is extremely grateful for this $100k grant and the long term support from Minister Park and NSW Government.

“The Man Walk has

40 active weekly walk locations across NSW

“We have thousands of men walking regularly who have taken more 2.3 billion steps towards better mental and physical health while on The Man Walk.

“In just the past 3 months, we have had 5000 man walkers and 300 brand new walkers starting the day with a Man Walk.

“This funding will allow us to support and grow our existing walks, start brand new walk locations across NSW and fund the amazing Mental Fitness for Leaders education

program that we offer our Manbassadors and Man Walkers every month.

“We will be providing regular feedback to Minister Park and NSW Health about the positive impact this grant will have on men, their families and their communities.

“A goal of our charity is to collaborate with other organisations like Relationships Australia to offer resources and education programs on managing emotions and decreasing gender violence.”

NSW Government Funds Cutting-Edge Research to Combat Legionnaires’ Disease

IAN ROGERS

The NSW Government has granted $500,000 to NSW Health Pathology at Westmead Hospital to support groundbreaking research aimed at enhancing the detection and response to Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks.

Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection caused by inhaling water droplets contaminated with legionella bacteria. A key source of these bacteria is cooling water systems in air conditioning units. Under the Public Health Regulation 2022, these systems must be safely managed to prevent bacterial growth and transmission.

Identifying the exact source of a legionella outbreak can be challenging.

Contamination in cooling systems is often brief, and fne water droplets carrying bacteria can infect nearby individuals or contaminate adjacent systems, complicating the tracing process.

NSW Health Pathology will use the grant to develop a genomic surveillance system

that will signifcantly streamline the process of matching samples and identifying outbreak sources. By integrating genomics technology with existing public health and environmental surveillance, the research aims to reduce the time needed to confrm clusters of legionellosis and uncover links between cases that might otherwise go undetected.

The project will be

conducted at the Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research at Westmead, under the leadership of Professor Vitali Sintchenko (NSW Health Pathology and Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute) and Dr. Eby Sim (University of Sydney’s School of Medical Sciences).

The research team is collaborating with Health Protection NSW and Public Health Units in the Western Sydney and South Eastern Sydney Local Health Districts to ensure a coordinated approach to tackling this public health issue.

For more information on Legionnaires’ disease, visit the NSW Health fact sheet.

Dr Eby Sim (left) and Professor Vitali Sintchenko

NSW Health Urges Residents to Take Precautions Amid Heatwave

temperatures expected to exceed 30 degrees in some areas.

As parts of New South Wales brace for heatwave conditions this week, NSW Health is reminding residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves from the risks associated with extreme heat.

Dr. Stephen Conaty, NSW Health Director of Environmental Health, emphasized the seriousness of heat-related illnesses, especially with

“Extreme heat can be life-threatening. It’s vital to recognize the symptoms of heatrelated illnesses and take measures to stay cool and hydrated,” Dr. Conaty said.

Tips to Stay Safe During Heatwaves

• Keep Your Home

Cool: Close blinds and curtains early to block out heat.

• Stay Indoors: Avoid being outside during the

hottest times of the day.

• Hydrate Often: Drink plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty, and carry a water bottle when outdoors.

• Outdoor Work

Precautions: Wear a hat, take regular breaks, and stay out of direct sunlight during peak heat.

Looking Out for Vulnerable Groups

Children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing conditions are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

Dr. Conaty urged people

to check in on their neighbours, friends, and family members to ensure they are staying safe during the heatwave. Recognizing HeatRelated Illness

Signs of heat-related illness include:

• Headache.

• Dizziness.

• Nausea and vomiting.

• Fatigue and muscle cramps.

What to Do:

• Move to a shaded or cool area.

• Use a fan or air conditioning.

• Take a cool shower or bath.

• Sip water slowly.

For more severe symptoms, such as a sudden rise in body temperature, absence of sweating, aggressive or strange behaviour, or seizures, seek urgent medical attention or call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Additional Risks: Bushfres and Air Quality

NSW Health also warns that heatwaves can coincide with

increased bushfre activity and reduced air quality due to smoke. Residents in affected areas should monitor air quality updates and follow health advice when planning outdoor activities.

For more tips and advice on staying safe during extreme heat, visit the NSW Health website.

Stay safe, stay cool, and look out for one another this summer.

IAN ROGERS

Brisbane Home Prices Set to Soar

Tight Housing Supply

Driving Prices

A new forecast reveals Brisbane’s property market is poised for extraordinary growth in 2025, with home prices expected to rise by more than the average annual wage in just one year. According to SQM Research’s Christopher’s Housing Boom and Bust Report 2025, released Monday night, Brisbane’s median dwelling prices are forecast to increase by 9 to 14 per cent, equating to a rise of $77,000 to $120,000.

If the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) cuts interest rates earlier than anticipated, Brisbane could see price growth of up to 16 per cent, adding a staggering $138,000 to the current median dwelling price of $862,000. This dramatic increase far surpasses the average Australian wage, solidifying Brisbane’s status as a housing market hotspot.

Population Growth and

Brisbane’s robust growth is underpinned by continued strong population increases, estimated at 2.5 per cent in 2024, alongside a tight housing supply. Report

author Louis Christopher said these factors are creating signifcant upward pressure on prices.

“There’s no sign of a slowdown at all,”

Mr. Christopher told The Courier-Mail.

He highlighted that 2024 marked the 12th consecutive year of growth in Brisbane’s housing market, with a forecasted rise of 15 per cent, exceeding even the most optimistic predictions.

National Comparison: Brisbane Leads, Except for Perth

Brisbane is expected to outperform nearly all Australian capitals in 2025, trailing only Perth, where prices are forecast to grow by 14 to 19 per cent (or as high as 20 per cent with early rate cuts).

In contrast, other major cities are predicted to struggle:

• Sydney and Melbourne: Prices expected to decline by -5 to -1 per cent.

• Canberra: Largest projected decline, with prices falling by -6 to -2 per cent.

Despite Brisbane’s rising prices, the city remains an attractive alternative for buyers priced out of Sydney and Melbourne, offering comparatively better value.

Olympics-Driven Optimism

Brisbane’s property market is expected to remain strong leading up

to the 2032 Olympics, with no signs of weakening in sight.

“We started the year thinking Brisbane would outperform the market through to the 2032 Olympics, and there’s nothing in the data we can see that suggests a change in that view,” said Mr. Christopher.

Interest Rate Cuts to Fuel Demand

SQM Research’s base case scenario assumes the RBA will cut interest rates by 0.25 to 0.50 per cent in mid-2025, spurring homebuyer demand across the country. If cuts come earlier, as soon as March 2025, the Brisbane

market could experience even greater growth.

“If interest rates are cut as forecasted, this event will immediately stimulate homebuyer demand across the country,” Mr. Christopher said.

Southern Migration Fuels Demand

While Brisbane prices are rising, the city still offers relative affordability compared to Sydney and Melbourne.

The report notes a continued fow of residents from southern states where housing affordability is out of reach for many.

“Brisbane is not offering the same value

as it did previously, but compared to Sydney and Melbourne, it’s still offering relatively good value,” said Mr. Christopher. Outlook for 2025 and Beyond Brisbane’s housing market is positioned for sustained growth as population pressures, economic factors, and continued demand from interstate buyers combine to create a dynamic environment. With forecasted price gains eclipsing those in most other capitals, Brisbane is cementing its reputation as a national real estate powerhouse.

Should the RBA Pull the Trigger in February?

ROBERT HEYWARD

As the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) gears up for its February meeting, all eyes are on whether it will adjust the offcial cash rate in response to evolving economic conditions. The decision

looms large, carrying implications for households, businesses, and the broader Australian economy.

Infationary pressures have been a persistent concern, with recent data suggesting that the battle against rising prices is far from over. While

infation appears to be moderating globally, domestic challenges, such as supply chain constraints and wage growth, remain infuential factors. The RBA must weigh these pressures against the risk of stifing economic growth, especially

with global uncertainty persisting.

On the other hand, Australia’s housing market is showing early signs of stabilization, and consumer confdence, though fragile, is gradually recovering. These trends suggest the economy might be

fnding its footing after a series of rate hikes in 2023. However, acting too soon or too aggressively could risk derailing this momentum.

February’s meeting will likely hinge on the latest economic indicators, including employment fgures and retail spending.

A cautious approach, perhaps maintaining the current cash rate, could provide a buffer for the economy to adapt while allowing the RBA to

assess the cumulative impact of previous hikes. Conversely, a rate increase could signal a more aggressive stance against infation, reinforcing the RBA’s commitment to its long-term target. Ultimately, the decision will depend on whether the RBA believes the economy has the resilience to withstand further tightening. Either way, February’s meeting promises to set the tone for Australia’s economic trajectory in 2024.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Relax, have a break and enjoy BRISBANE

Enjoy good times in the CBD

Bookings still available for December & January

Located in the heart of the Brisbane City CBD just steps from the Queen Street Mall shopping precinct, casino and cultural centre, travellers enjoy well-appointed one-bedroom apartment accommodation with free private parking, exceptional dining and amenities that include a recreation deck with heated pool, sauna and gymnasium

Experience the allure of stunning city views and the convenience of free private parking at this remarkable residence. Retreat to comfort with a queen-sized bed and a fold-out couch, complemented by amenities like free WiFi and an HD TV. Refresh in the modern bathroom, and enjoy access to the pool, steam room, sauna, and gym. Take in the cityscape from your private balcony, and indulge your culinary desires in the full-service kitchen equipped with a microwave, co ee machine, electric kettle, oven, toaster, and dishwasher. Complete your stay with private laundry facilities, including a complimentary washer and dryer, ensuring a seamless experience from start to nish.

- Split A/C (heating + cooling) in living area and bedroom

- WIFI

- your own Parking for 1 car

- Balcony with seating

- Amenity note: Communal outdoor pool, sauna, bbq area and gym

To make a booking, simply scan the QR Code and select your getaway dates.

Max Crus is a Clarence Valley-based wine writer and Grape Expectations is now in its 28th year of publication. Find out more about Max or sign up for his weekly reviews and musings by visiting maxcrus.com.au

Co-pilot causes train wreck, but vintage MS works. Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Since Microsoft introduced MS Works way back in the 1980s, things have just gone downhill.

Who could forget the joy of typing a whole document on a Compaq386 without running out of characters?

Sure, you only had eight characters when naming the document, but the challenge to abbreviate your masterpiece’s name was part of the fun.

It didn’t even have autocorrect because at

the time users knew more words than machines, unlike today’s ‘word processors’ who think they know more but frequently change things even when they don’t.

Yes, Bill Gates, Apple and Co, only recently allowed you to type certain words without correcting them to something very highlyreligious, prim and proper American. This from the porn capital of the world where they shoot 40,000 of one another each year

Margan Broke Fordwich Ceres Hill Barbera 2023, $50. Like an annus horribilis, sometimes an anise character is off-putting. Other times, such as in liquorice and this, perfectly acceptable, indeed desirable. Delightfully different. Have it with fancy anise and fennel supermarket sausages or get your own snags from the butcher and add liquorice. 9.4/10.

Margan Borke Fordwich White Label Saxonvale Mourvedre 2023, $60. Saxonvale Mourvedre sounds like a character or place straight out of Game of Thrones, so drink this from an oversized pewter mug while ripping a huge chunk wild boar from the spit with your teeth. Ample fruit

and just voted in Trump as president who put Elon Musk and Hulk Hogan in the National Cabinet! Anyway, each upgrade through Windows 95, 97, 10, 11, merely made things worse, until we reached MS 365, presumably the number of useless updates since we threw away our golf balls, Ataris and Commodore 64s.

From those halcyon days of doing everything yourself such as paragraphs, lists, dotpoints and those abominable

sweetness and tannins will easily counter the gaminess of the pig. 9.3/10.

Margan Broke Fordwich White Label ‘Timbervines’ Graciano 2023, $50. Gracianos have been somewhat weak and watery over the years, but this is a proper weight, 14 per cent, real man, or woman, red with body that even Hulk Hogan

‘bullet-points’ which to this day still cannot be undone, has been a backward step, not the least the latest which includes a peculiar icon of indescribable shape and meaning popping up every time you start or add to a document.

There it is now! All part of the new ‘AI’ world, or ‘A1’ world as an MP described it to a Tech gathering recently, clearly thinking she was at a dairy conference. Apparently it’s

would be pleased with. If he could spell Graciano. 9.2/10.

Margan Broke Fordwich White Label Semillon, 2024, $45. So bright and fresh, as always, you could just about get through summer on this alone, well, December at least, before you moved on to chardonnay. Maybe a sauv’ blanc could fll any gaps, or a fano.

part of Microsoft’s fancy new thing called ‘Co-pilot’ which thinks we need help at every keystroke. Of course we do, but not from Hulk Hogan or extreme religious-right, pro-Israel, anti-abortion, antivax Americans with skills learnt machine-like from the ramblings and babblings of Murdoch and Sky/Fox News hacks for which, weirdly, Rupert has been paid handsomely. Perhaps that was all they could afford?

9.4/10.

Margan Broke Fordwich White Label Shiraz 2023, $50. More body than most Hunter reds and without that underlying pinot character that makes people wonder if they’ve opened the right bottle. It’s not Barossan but holds its own and doesn’t whack you over the head the next morning to remind you.

Please can someone re-invent a simple word processor with no bells or whistles or ridiculous icons popping up in the margin –there it is again. I don’t care if my document names are only eight characters.

Wine, spirits and beer have survived largely unchanged since man descended from the trees of central Africa two million years ago. If only word processing had done the same.

9.2/10.

Margan Broke Fordwich White Label Chardonnay 2024, $50. Funny how White Label Chardonnay conjures something soft and fowery which this is defnitely not. Full-bodied and fullfavoured, maybe it would be better labelled white-hot? 9.4/10.

Max Crus

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

From simple meals to show-stopping feasts, there’s something for everyone.

CHRISTMAS STUFFING TRAY BAKE

INGREDIENTS

20m prep 35m cook makes 8

• 65g (1/3 cup) dried cranberries

• 1 lemon, rind fnely grated, juiced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 brown onion, chopped

• 100g pancetta slices, coarsely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 pane de casa or vienna loaf, unsliced

• 2 eggs, lightly whisked

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, plus extra sprigs, to serve

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 180C/160C fan forced. Lightly grease a 3cm deep, 23 x 28cm baking dish.

2. Combine the cranberries and lemon juice in a

bowl and set aside to soak until needed.

3. Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat then cook the onion, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes or until softened. Add the pancetta and cook for a further 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and set aside to cool.

4. Cut the crust off the whole loaf of bread without taking too much of the bread with it. Cut or tear the bread into 2-3cm pieces. Add to the pancetta mixture with the soaked cranberries, lemon rind, egg and thyme. Season then stir until combined.

5. Transfer the stuffng mixture to the prepared dish and spray with oil. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden and crisp on top. Sprinkle the stuffng tray bake with extra thyme leaves and serve hot.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 8 shortcut bacon rashers, coarsely chopped

• 30g (1/2 cup) panko breadcrumbs

• 4 baby cos lettuce, halved

• 125g cherry tomatoes

• Caesar salad dressing, to drizzle

• Shaved parmesan, to serve

METHOD

1. Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan over mediumhigh heat. Add the bacon and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towel. Add the garlic butter and breadcrumbs to the pan and cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes or until golden. Transfer to a bowl.

2. Arrange the lettuce on a serving platter in a wreath shape (use the picture as a guide). Cut half the tomatoes in half and the remaining into quarters and arrange on top of the lettuce. Drizzle over the dressing and sprinkle with the bacon, breadcrumb mixture and parmesan to serve.

MINCE PIE CHRISTMAS TRIFLE

25m prep serves 10

INGREDIENTS

• 2 x 85g pkt port wine jelly crystals

• 625ml (2 1/2 cups) boiling water

• 800g pkt Fruit Cake

• 1 1/2 x 900g ctn Vanilla Custard

• 680g jar Cherries in Syrup, drained

• 350g btl lemon curd

• 1 tbsp fnely grated orange rind

• 600ml ctn thickened cream

• 60ml (¼ cup) Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur

• 4 Mini Fruit Mince Pies

• Flaked almonds, toasted, to decorate

• Icing sugar mixture, to dust

METHOD

1. Place the jelly crystals in a heatproof bowl. Add the boiling water and whisk until dissolved. Set aside for 10 minutes to cool slightly. Pour into a 20cm round 3.75L (15 cup) glass trife bowl. Place in the fridge for 2 hours to set.

2. Cut the fruit cake into 6 slices. Cut each slice into 3 pieces crossways. Arrange the pieces upright against the side of the trife bowl, then use more cake pieces to prop up the pieces on the side and create a fat layer on top of the jelly. Place 125ml (1/2 cup) custard in a sealable plastic bag. Snip off 1 corner. Pipe custard in between the cake pieces against the glass.

3. Reserve ¼ cup cherries. Top the cake pieces in the centre with half the remaining cherries. Top with half the remaining custard to cover the cherries and cake. Smooth the surface.

4. Combine the lemon curd and orange rind in a bowl. Spoon around the edge on top of the custard layer, then smooth to cover. Top the centre with the remaining cherries. Top with the remaining custard and smooth the surface. Place in the fridge for 2 hours to chill.

5. Use electric beaters to beat the cream and in a bowl until frm peaks form. Spoon on top of the trife. Top with the fruit mince pies, almond and reserved cherries. Dust with icing sugar, to serve. Watch our step-by-step video below to see how to make our Mince pie Christmas trife recipe.

Essential Tools to Start Your Gardening Journey

Gardening is a rewarding activity that connects us to nature, promotes physical well-being, and beautifes our surroundings. Whether you’re growing vegetables, fowers, or simply sprucing up your outdoor space, having the right tools is essential to ensure your efforts fourish. Starting your gardening journey can be intimidating, but with the right guidance and equipment, you’ll be on your way to cultivating a thriving garden. Here’s a guide to the essential

tools every beginner gardener needs.

1. Gloves

Gardening might look peaceful, but it can be tough on your hands. Thorns, splinters, and soil can cause discomfort or injury. A sturdy pair of gloves is indispensable. Look for gloves that are durable, water-resistant, and breathable. Synthetic leather gloves with reinforced fngertips provide extra protection while remaining fexible for delicate tasks like planting seeds or handling small plants.

2. Hand Trowel

A hand trowel is a small but mighty tool,

perfect for planting seeds, digging small holes, or transferring plants into pots. Opt for one with a comfortable grip and a robust blade. Stainless steel or aluminium trowels resist rust and can handle tough soils, making them a long-lasting investment for any gardener.

3. Pruning Shears

Pruning is an integral part of gardening, whether you’re trimming back overgrown shrubs, harvesting herbs, or deadheading fowers.

A good pair of pruning shears, also known as secateurs, is necessary for clean cuts that encourage healthy plant growth. Bypass shears, which work like scissors, are ideal for live plants, while anvil-style shears are better for cutting dead branches.

4. Spade

For digging larger holes, edging beds, or turning over soil, a spade is indispensable. Its fat, sharp blade cuts through soil effortlessly, allowing you to shape your garden with precision. Choose a spade with a sturdy handle and a blade made from stainless steel to withstand heavy use.

5. Garden Fork

A garden fork is ideal for breaking up compacted soil, turning compost, or aerating the ground for planting. The strong tines penetrate harder soils that a spade or hoe might struggle with. Garden forks come in various sizes, but a full-sized fork is a versatile choice for most gardening needs.

6. Watering Can or Hose

Water is life for plants, and effcient watering tools are critical. A watering can with a detachable rose (the perforated spout) allows you to water delicate seedlings gently. For larger gardens, a garden hose with an adjustable nozzle provides fexibility, letting you choose from a gentle mist to a strong stream for deeper watering.

7. Rake

A rake is a multipurpose tool, helping you clear leaves, debris, or weeds from your garden beds and paths. For soil preparation, a metal bow rake can level the surface and remove stones, ensuring a smooth and healthy planting area. Lightweight plastic rakes are better for leaf cleanup.

8. Hoe

Weeding can be one of the most labourintensive gardening tasks, but a hoe makes it manageable. Hoes come in different shapes and sizes, but for beginners, a basic draw hoe is suffcient for chopping through weeds and cultivating the soil. Keep the blade sharp to make your work easier and more effcient.

9. Wheelbarrow

If you’re planning a larger garden, a wheelbarrow is invaluable for moving soil, mulch, plants, or heavy tools. Choose one with sturdy wheels and a balanced design for easy manoeuvrability. For smaller gardens, a garden cart may be a more compact and practical choice.

10. Garden Kneeler or Pad

Gardening often involves kneeling, which can strain your knees and back. A garden kneeler or pad provides cushioning, making extended periods of weeding or planting more comfortable. Many kneelers double as benches, giving you a versatile seating option for taking breaks.

Additional Tips for

Beginners

While having the right tools is essential, taking care of them is equally important. Clean your tools after use to prevent rust and prolong their lifespan. Store them in a dry, safe place, preferably in a shed or toolbox. As you gain experience, you might fnd other specialized tools, like a soil tester or pest control products, helpful for your specifc gardening goals.

Final Thoughts

Starting a garden can feel overwhelming, but with the right tools in your arsenal, you’ll fnd the process much easier and more enjoyable. Investing in quality equipment ensures that you’re prepared to tackle any gardening challenge, from planting delicate fowers to breaking tough soil. As you build your collection of tools and gain confdence in your skills, you’ll discover the true joy of gardening—a timeless activity that brings life, colour, and serenity to any space. With gloves on and tools in hand, it’s time to dig in and start your gardening journey. Happy gardening!

LIAM JENNINGS

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

WARWICK

LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK & DISTRICT W/E 29/11/2024

The weather changed and the numbers soared for all the markets this week as we move towards the holiday season the markets are frming for available stock. Cattle sales fnished this week to allow for the implementation of new scales and to have them ready for the new selling season in 2025. The market was frmer across the categories as buyers and restockers looked to fll orders.

• Bulls av 293.2c/kg topping at $350.2c/kg or $1433.79 to $3262.06

• Cows av 258.1c/kg topping at 295c/kg or $1299.38 to $2118.46

• Feeder Heifers av 298.2c/kg topping at 360c/kg or $974.57 to $1441.84

• Feeder Steers av 365.6c/kg topping at 430c/kg or $1304.42 to $1862.87

• Heifers av 295.1c/kg topping at 376.2c/kg or $1425.43 to $1973.16

• Steers av 349.6c/kg topping at 396.2c/kg or $1945.11 to $2516.93

• Vealer heifers av 300.5c/kg topping at 342.2c/kg or $646.66 to $1030.02

• Vealer steers av 399.2c/kg topping at 432.2c/kg or $939.47 to $1178.70

• Yearling heifers av 316.93 topping at 388.2c/kg or $1018.93 to $1504.44

• Yearling steers av 376.27c/kg topping at 426.20c/kg or $1094.16 to $1916.83

• The total av of $1223.36 for the 1607head yarded was a nice fnish for the 2024 selling season. Sheep and Lamb numbers were up as the weather dried the paddocks and with only 3 sales left for the year all purchasers were keen to fll their orders. The was a good supply of both feed on stock as well as local processors

and export types. The heavy end in the Mutton and Lambs was stronger as well as the lighter butcher types, good fresh young lambs were also keenly sought after following the movements in pastures after the rain.

• Lambs topped at $254 to av $142.94 ($29/down )

• Hoggets topped at $187 to av $88.71 ($38/down )

• Ram Lambs topped at $167 to av $103.34 ($22/ up )

• Ewes topped at $121 to av $50.70 ($6/ down)

• Wethers topped at $115 to av $80.89 ($2/ up )

• Rams topped at $120 to av $73.31 9$20/down)

• The total yarding of 2542 head av $111.40/ head a drop of $26/ head.

Pork numbers were again growing with Sows selling from $120 to $292, Boars selling from $60 to $220, Barrows selling to $180, Baconers selling from $190 to $290, Light Pork selling to $185 , Pork to $282, Stores selling from $45 to $225

Poultry numbers soared along with the other livestock this week as well as a few Horses joining the sale list at the weekly Pig & Calf Sale.

The aforementioned Horses sold for $640 and $220 with both going to good homes, Groups of Guinea Fowl sold to $25, Pullets to $25, Chickens sold to $42.50, Hens sold to $25 as well as the Roosters , Ducks and Drakes selling to $20

MC DOUGALL & SONS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

The sun shone and the vendors sent some stock in to make up for the smaller numbers last week with the rain. The yarding was mixed with some good heavy end Lamb and mutton presented. Restockers were also supplied with the good lines of lighter feed on types. Lambs today topped at $254 to av $142.94 ($29/down ), Hoggets topped at $187 to av $88.71 ($38/down), Ram Lambs topped at $167 to av $103.34 ($22/up ), Ewes topped at $121 to av $50.70 ($6/ down), Wethers topped at $115 to av $80.89 ($2/head up ), Rams topped at $120 to av $73.31 ($20/down). The yarding was mainly on the lighter end of the spectrum

with the heavy export types keeping the averages up. A big reminder that there are only two more sales for the 2024 selling season and we would encourage all vendors to be aware of the cut offs. The larger yarding of 2542 head av $111.40/head, $26/down on average last week.

• Lockhardt Family sold Dorper lambs 56kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $226, Rams to Whites Trading for $74

• Greenup Maryland P/S sold Poll Dorset lambs 51kg to GR Prime for $200

• Gooroo Grazing sold Dorper lambs 56.8kg to Thomas Foods for $225, 53.8kg to Ashtons Butchery for $221, 58.7kg to Eversons for $221, hoggets 75kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $146

• Stuart Timms sold Dorper lambs 45kg to Summerville Meats for $187Keys Family sold Dorper lambs 70kg to Thomas Foods for $254, 50kg to Thomas Foods for $200

• Reg & Janelle Cooke sold Dorper lambs 47.1kg to Ashtons Butchery for $199, 44.8kg to Mc Mahon Bros for $182, 42kg to Mc Mahon Bros for $181, 41kg to GR Prime for $166, 39kg to Mc Mahon Bros for $148, 52kg to Take IT Easy Meats for $168 and Eversons for $142

• Lynne & Tony Duncan sold Dorper x lambs 36kg to restockers for $108

• Raelene Fleming sold Dorper ewe lambs 38.5kg to restockers for $190

• Nielsen Family sold Xbred 4th wethers to Thomas Foods for $75, Merino x 4th to Eversons for $98

• Evelyn Hughes sold Dorset x store lambs 25-27kg to restockers for $48, 32.5kg to restockers for $67, 37kg to Eversons for $78, 42kg Hoggets to Eversons for $81, 37kg to Eversons for $82

• Dempsey Family of Dalby sold Dorper x hoggets 66kg to Eversons for $135

• Nev Balderson sold Dorper lambs 46.7kg to GR Prime for $179

• Len & Sally Cadalora sold Dorper lambs 43.2kg to GR Prime for $166, hoggets to Eversons for $80

• Woodleigh Keetah P/S sold Dorper x lambs 40kg to restockers for $118, 45kg hoggets to Eversons for $61

NFF Warns of Growing Pressure on Global Trade Frameworks, Stresses Importance of Free Trade

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has highlighted the crucial role free trade agreements (FTAs) play in the success of Australian agriculture, while warning of increasing pressures on global trading frameworks.

Speaking at a Senate Joint Standing Committee on Trade and Investment Growth, Chris Young, NFF General Manager of Trade and Economics, underscored the sector’s reliance on international trade and the need to resist protectionist tendencies.

“Australian agriculture’s success is deeply intertwined with international trade,” Mr. Young told the committee. “In 2022-23, agricultural exports reached $80 billion, with over 70% of our produce exported—80% of that to countries with which we have FTAs.”

Mr. Young traced the origins of this success to economic reforms in the 1980s, which saw the deregulation of Australia’s agricultural sector. “The removal of price supports and collective marketing arrangements was painful but based on the correct notion that a deregulated sector with exposure to international markets would lift our competitiveness—and it has,” he said.

Importance of FTAs Amid Stalled Multilateral Progress

While progress on liberalising multilateral trade through the World Trade Organization (WTO) has largely stalled, Mr. Young pointed out that FTAs offer a critical avenue for enhancing trade. Australia has signed 18 FTAs since 2000, most notably in East and Southeast Asia.

“These agreements,

negotiated by worldclass Australian negotiators with strong industry support, underpin farm gate prices and bolster resilience against market shocks,” he said. “The benefts of these agreements are well understood within our sector, from producers on the ground to industry bodies like the NFF.”

Challenges to Maximising Trade Benefts

Despite their importance, Mr. Young noted challenges in fully utilising FTAs, including deal-specifc issues such as non-tariff barriers, technical access problems, and the erosion of frst signatory advantages.

However, the broader challenge lies in the mounting pressure on the global trading framework. “The geopolitical, institutional, and monetary stability

Statement on ABARES Horticulture Labour

The NFF Horticulture Council welcomes the recent analysis from ABARES, which sheds light on the workforce challenges faced by the horticulture sector.

The fndings provide some encouraging signs, including evidence that fewer businesses are struggling to fnd

that have underpinned our sector are being tested,” Mr. Young said. “It is imperative that we continue to promote the benefts of FTAs to the broader community and fend off creeping protectionist tendencies.”

Call to Action

Mr. Young praised the Senate inquiry as a timely opportunity to address these challenges, urging policymakers to advocate for free trade and strengthen the trading environment for Australian goods.

“The NFF has provided a series of recommendations in our submission to this inquiry, which we believe will be valuable in ensuring the ongoing success of Australian agriculture,” he concluded.

The NFF’s testimony serves as a reminder of the sector’s reliance on global markets and the need to safeguard the systems and agreements that enable Australian farmers to thrive on the international stage.

Analysis

Attributable to NFF Horticulture Council Executive Offcer Richard Shannon

workers and that overall employment numbers are increasing.

However, these improvements must be viewed in context, as the baseline for comparison is the pandemic years, when labour shortages were particularly severe.

The easing of

international travel restrictions has been a key factor in addressing these challenges, particularly through the return of backpackers.

This underscores the vital role the Working Holiday Maker program plays in meeting horticulture’s labour needs—a critical

consideration as the program’s future undergoes review.

What stands out most is that, despite a record number of backpackers returning in 2022/23, 34% of employers still reported diffculties in recruiting enough workers. This highlights persistent failures in the

labour market, which Federal Government initiatives such as the Working Holiday Maker program and the Pacifc Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme are intended to mitigate.

The Council calls for further analysis from ABARES to deepen

our understanding of these ongoing labour market challenges. Such work will be instrumental in guiding government policies to ensure Australians have a reliable supply of fresh, affordable fruits, vegetables, nuts, turf, and nursery products.

IAN ROGERS

Agribusiness at a Glance – November 2024

throughout October.

• Barley and oats also experienced downward pressure.

Overview

Rural Commodities Index

The NAB Rural Commodities Index

saw a slight decline in October:

• Down 0.8% monthon-month in Australian dollar (AUD) terms.

• A larger decline of 1.8% in US dollar terms, refecting the AUD’s partial retreat after its September gains.

Commodity Trends

Performance among agricultural commodities was mixed:

• Cattle prices softened

• Wheat prices stabilized after recovering from their late-August lows.

Rainfall and Climate Outlook

October Rainfall Rainfall conditions varied signifcantly across the country:

• Weak rainfall was observed in Tasmania, western and eastern Victoria, south-eastern New South Wales, southern Queensland, south-western Western Australia, south-eastern and northern South Australia, and inland

Northern Territory.

• Strong rainfall occurred in most of Western Australia, western South Australia, and northern regions of the Northern Territory and Queensland.

December–February Projections

According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM):

• Above-average rainfall is expected across most of eastern Australia.

• The remainder of the country is likely to experience broadly average rainfall.

• Northern and eastern Australia are forecast to record unusually high

minimum temperatures. Climatic conditions, measured by the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) index, are expected to remain neutral in the near term but may approach El Niño thresholds by midautumn 2025 without crossing into El Niño conditions.

Economic and Currency Outlook

Interest Rate Forecast

NAB has revised its forecast for the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA)’s frst rate cut, pushing it back to May 2025 (from February). This adjustment refects stronger-than-expected

labour market conditions.

Australian Dollar Outlook

The forecast for the AUD/USD exchange rate has been lowered:

• End-2024: Revised to US66 cents (down from US69 cents), driven by:

o The continued strength of the US economy.

o Anticipated policy shifts under the newly elected US administration, including potential tariff increases.

• 2025: AUD is expected to weaken in the frst half of the year, reaching US64 cents by the end of Q2 before rebounding to US67

cents by year-end.

Global Context

Uncertainty surrounding US economic policy under the new administration adds to the complexity of global market dynamics. Potential tariff increases and other policy changes could have signifcant implications for trade and commodity markets. This report highlights the mixed performance of Australia’s rural commodities, variable climatic conditions, and evolving economic forecasts, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities ahead for the agribusiness sector.

NAB Senior Economist Gerard Burg

Weekly Weather and Agricultural Update: November 27, 2024

Rainfall Across Australia

NFF Welcomes Southeast Asia Trade Report

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed the release of the Trading North Inquiry report by the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Agriculture, which examines the role of Australian agriculture in Southeast Asia.

NFF President David Jochinke praised the report for reaffrming the vital relationship between Australian agriculture and Southeast Asian nations and for endorsing recommendations aimed at strengthening ties in the years ahead.

“Over recent decades, the relationship between the agriculture industry and our Southeast Asian partners has grown strongly,” Mr. Jochinke said.

In the past fve years alone, Australian agricultural exports to Southeast Asia have nearly doubled, reaching $17.2 billion in 2023. Currently, the region accounts for approximately 23% of all Australian agricultural exports, underscoring its importance as a key trading partner.

Beyond Trade: A Collaborative Future

While trade fows are

critical, the relationship with Southeast Asia extends far beyond exports. Mr. Jochinke highlighted areas such as:

• Capacity building and interpersonal relationships.

• Cooperation on shared challenges like biosecurity.

• Collaborative efforts to address food security.

The report acknowledges the success of existing initiatives such as the Australian Agriculture Counsellors network, the Cairns Group of Farm Leaders, and the Special Representative for Australian Agriculture, and calls for continued and expanded support for these programs.

“It’s vital that the relationship between the Australian agriculture industry and Southeast Asia continues to fourish,” Mr. Jochinke said. “This partnership benefts both regions and supports our goal of becoming a $100 billion industry while also increasing trade diversifcation.”

“Team Australia” Approach

The report also underscores the importance of the “Team Australia” approach, where different agricultural commodities collaborate

under a unifed strategy.

“The ‘Team Australia’ approach is something the NFF has long championed. It’s effective in fostering partnerships and addressing key areas like sustainability,” Mr. Jochinke said.

By promoting long-term investment in relationships and emphasizing mutual benefts, the report reinforces the need for government and industry to work together to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia.

Looking Ahead

The NFF has actively contributed to the inquiry, making a submission in May and appearing before the committee in August. Moving forward, the Federation is committed to leveraging the report’s fndings to deepen the agriculture sector’s relationship with Southeast Asia.

“The NFF looks forward to continuing to grow our industry’s relationship with Southeast Asia,” Mr. Jochinke concluded.

This strengthened partnership promises to deliver signifcant economic and sustainability benefts for both regions while paving the way for a robust and diversifed future for Australian agriculture.

During the week ending November 27, 2024, low-pressure systems and troughs delivered widespread rainfall across much of Australia. Southern cropping regions experienced notable precipitation, with rainfall totals ranging from 10 to 50 millimetres recorded across Victoria, southern New South Wales, and parts of eastern South Australia.

However, cropping regions in central and northern New South Wales, Queensland, and most of Western Australia were relatively dry, generally receiving 0 to 10 millimetres of rainfall.

In south-eastern Australia, the signifcant rainfall likely caused delays in the harvest of remaining winter crops, impacting progress in these critical agricultural areas.

Rainfall Forecast

In the coming days, low-pressure systems are expected to bring rain across all Australian states and territories.

• Eastern Australia: Cropping regions in New South Wales and parts of northern and southern Queensland are forecast to receive 50 to 100 millimetres of rainfall. The remainder of Queensland, New South Wales, and much of Victoria is expected to

see 15 to 50 millimetres.

• Western and Southern Australia: Rainfall in cropping regions of South Australia and Western Australia is anticipated to be lighter, with lower totals compared to eastern regions.

For summer cropping regions in New South Wales and Queensland, this rainfall is likely to enhance soil moisture levels, supporting the germination and growth of crops already planted.

Seasonal Rainfall Outlook

Looking ahead to the December 2024 to February 2025 period, the national rainfall outlook indicates a strong likelihood of above-median rainfall in many eastern and western regions.

• High Rainfall Regions:

o Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia, and Victoria are expected to see higher-than-median rainfall.

o Eastern cropping regions have a 75% probability of receiving 50 to 200 millimetres, with the most substantial totals forecast for Queensland and northern New South Wales.

• Moderate Rainfall Region:

o South Australia is forecast to receive

25 to 50 millimetres, while parts of eastern Victoria and Western Australia could see up to 100 millimetres. These favourable conditions are expected to support summer cropping across key agricultural zones, particularly in the eastern states.

Water Storage and Allocation Updates

• Murray-Darling Basin Storage: Water storage levels in the Murray-Darling Basin declined by 174 gigalitres (GL) between November 21 and November 28, 2024. The current storage volume stands at 16,131 GL, equivalent to 72% of total capacity. This is 17% (3,399 GL) lower than at the same time last year.

• Water Allocation Prices: Prices for water allocations in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke decreased from $145/ ML on November 21 to $136/ML on November 28. Prices remain lower in regions above the Barmah Choke, due to binding trade constraints in that area.

This combination of rainfall patterns, seasonal forecasts, and water availability highlights both opportunities and challenges for Australian agriculture as the country transitions into the summer cropping season.

IAN ROGERS

Farmers urged to seek help on 3G shutdown impacts

IAN ROGERS

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has urged farmers experiencing mobile connectivity issues in the wake of the 3G network shutdown to reach out to providers for help.

The 3G network was progressively turned off across Australia from October 28.

NFF

Telecommunications Committee Chair

Peter Thompson urged farmers to be vocal about issues they’ve encountered since the change.

“Telstra and Optus committed to 4G equivalence to their mapped coverage and tested and signed off on this commitment prior to closing their networks,”

Mr Thompson said.

“Now the reality is that we are living in a world

without 3G and farmers are fnding unexpected glitches with the new system.”

Mr Thompson, who is a farmer near Roma, said he had experienced mixed results on the new 4G network.

“Areas that were marginal-to-no-signal now have signal, but there’s been a few issues with phone calls staying connected, which may also be device related rather than network related so best to check in to be sure.”

Mr Thompson urged anyone experiencing issues to contact their provider, such as Telstra or Optus.

“If your provider doesn’t know your issue, they can’t help you,” Mr Thompson said.

Mr Thompson said he got in touch with his provider after experiencing connectivity issues a few weeks ago.

He was informed the problem was separate to the 3G shutdown and was instead a local tower issue.

“We have to let the providers know where the issues are and have patience around the fact that the 4G technology is technology that we’ve had for a long-time,

it’s just a matter of fne-tuning; it’s more than likely something that needs to be fnetuned rather than a total disaster.

“We know waiting on hold is the last thing any farmer wants to do, but contacting your provider or the Regional Tech Hub is the best way to

get the problem fxed,”

Mr Thompson said.

“The Regional Tech Hub is totally independent and is geared up to help.

“They can escalate any issues with providers and can also give independent advice on product purchases.

“Make sure that you

contact the Regional Tech Hub with details on the issues you are having, like the timing and location of the problem.

“They can tell you if a simple solution would help, like changing an antenna from a 3G to a 4G capable device.”

Telstra contact options

• Telstra customers can get in touch with My Telstra

• Chat with Telstra via Chat now

• Call 13 22 00 (say “3G Shutdown” when prompted for a streamlined intake)

Optus contact options

• Chat with Optus via: Contact us – Optus

• Call 133 937

Regional Tech Hub, free independent connectivity advice

• 1300 081 029

• Or book an appointment online at www.regionaltechhub. org.au

Is Aldi Truly a Competitive Force in Australia’s Supermarket Landscape?

The rise of Aldi in Australia’s supermarket sector has sparked considerable debate, with heavyweights Woolworths and Coles emphasizing the German retailer’s impact. But is Aldi truly a formidable competitive force, or is this narrative simply a strategic defection from deeper concerns about market dominance?

The ACCC Inquiry: A Close Examination

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has been scrutinizing the supermarket sector to determine whether it offers genuine competition and fair pricing for consumers, while ensuring suppliers are not unduly

pressured. This inquiry, though less dramatic than the Senate’s recent grilling of supermarket executives, delves into the operational strategies of the major players, including Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi.

Central to the inquiry is whether the duopoly of Woolworths and Coles—accounting for a combined 67% of national supermarket sales—leaves room for smaller players like Aldi to thrive. Woolworths and Coles argue that Aldi represents a signifcant competitive force, citing its low-cost model, innovative product lines, and appeal to budgetconscious shoppers. Aldi’s Growth and Impact

Since its Australian debut in 2001, Aldi has steadily expanded, operating nearly 600 stores across urban and regional areas. Its no-frills, low-price strategy, coupled with clever marketing, has helped shed its earlier reputation for knock-off products. Aldi’s “Special Buys” and competitively priced staples have attracted a loyal customer base, prompting Coles CEO Leah Weckert to acknowledge it as a “credible competitor” during the ACCC hearings.

Aldi’s infuence is evident in the response of larger competitors. Both Coles and Woolworths have ramped up their privatelabel offerings to compete with Aldi’s cost-effective products. Meanwhile,

smaller operators like Metcash’s IGA model have struggled to keep pace, particularly in areas where Aldi might expand further. Despite its growth, Aldi holds just 8.1% of the market compared to Coles’ 24.8% and Woolworths’ 32.5%. While its store footprint is nearing that of Coles, its relatively slower expansion and logistical challenges—such as its absence in Tasmania and the Northern Territory— highlight limitations in its ability to disrupt the market more broadly.

Competition or Oligopoly?

The ACCC’s interim report highlights concerns over the supermarket sector’s competitive

dynamics, noting the inherent barriers to entry. It took Aldi two decades to achieve its current market share, raising questions about whether the sector genuinely encourages competition or merely perpetuates an oligopolistic structure.

Woolworths and Coles argue that Aldi’s presence keeps them price competitive. However, with the two giants controlling over two-thirds of the market, sceptics suggest this narrative might downplay their dominance and defect from allegations of price gouging.

The Road Ahead

Aldi’s deliberate growth strategy underscores its potential to further

challenge the status quo. However, whether this translates into a signifcant reshaping of the market remains to be seen. The ACCC’s fnal report, expected in February, may shed light on whether Australia’s supermarket sector is competitive enough—or if regulatory intervention is warranted.

In the meantime, Aldi remains a wildcard—a growing player in a tightly controlled game dominated by two retail giants. Its continued expansion and the ACCC’s fndings could signifcantly infuence the future of grocery shopping in Australia.

Australians have long embraced a love of home renovations—it’s woven into the national identity. But today, as the rising cost of living and fnancial pressures squeeze household budgets, more Aussies are tackling DIY projects to save money. With skilled tradespeople in short supply and fees climbing higher, the do-it-yourself approach seems like a logical solution. Yet behind this celebrated “can-do” spirit lies a hidden and deadly risk: asbestos exposure.

Every year, asbestosrelated diseases claim

the lives of around 4,000 Australians—twice the national road toll. While road safety campaigns food our screens with messages to slow down, the fght against asbestos receives far less attention, despite the staggering human cost. These deaths are not only devastating but entirely preventable. For decades, asbestos was widely used in over 3,000 building and decorating materials. It lurks in the fabric of homes built or renovated before 1990—beneath carpets, under tiles, within walls and ceilings, on roofs, and even in outdoor structures like fences, garden

sheds, and concrete pathways. Unknowingly, home renovators risk disturbing these hidden dangers. A single drill hole, saw cut, or jackhammer strike can release asbestos fbres into the air, where they can be inhaled. Tragically, these fbres can trigger deadly diseases like mesothelioma and lung cancer decades later.

Why Asbestos Awareness Matters More Than Ever

This Asbestos Awareness Month, as a wave of Australians pick up tools in pursuit of cost-effective home improvement, the urgency to educate and protect is critical.

As someone who has witnessed the heartbreaking impact of asbestos exposure frsthand—losing a loved one to its devastating effects—I am determined to amplify this message. Asbestos doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t care if you’re trying to save money or improve your home for your family. It’s the silent killer of home renovations. And the sad truth is that most people unknowingly put themselves and their loved ones at risk. Before tearing down old kitchens, ripping up bathroom tiles, or refurbishing backyard structures, take a

The Hidden Dangers of DIY: Protecting Australians from Asbestos Exposure

moment to pause. Ask yourself: Do I know where asbestos might be? Am I prepared to deal with it safely?

The Call to Action: Stop, Think, and Seek Help

Education is the key to prevention. Homeowners must learn to recognize potential asbestos hazards and take the necessary precautions before any DIY project begins.

Here’s how you can protect yourself and your family:

• Watch: Spend 20 minutes watching the Asbestos in Homes: A Guide to Identifcation, Testing, and Removal video.

• Learn: Visit asbestosawareness.com. au for practical advice on identifying, testing, and safely managing asbestos.

• Hire Professionals: Always engage licensed asbestos professionals for testing and removal. Never attempt to remove asbestos yourself.

DIY Doesn’t Mean Do It Dangerously

Australia’s love affair with home improvement is inspiring, but let’s ensure it doesn’t turn dreams into lifelong tragedies. By pausing to plan and prioritize safety, we can create beautiful, safe spaces for our families without putting lives at risk.

The Message Is Clear When it comes to asbestos:

• Don’t cut it.

• Don’t drill it.

• Don’t drop it.

• Don’t sand it.

• Don’t saw it.

• Don’t scrape it.

• Don’t scrub it.

• Don’t dismantle it.

• Don’t tip it.

• Don’t waterblast it.

• Don’t demolish it.

• Don’t dump it. And above all, DON’T remove it yourself! Always call licensed asbestos professionals and visit asbestosawareness. com.au for guidance. Because when it comes to asbestos, the risk is never worth it.

The appeal of saving money and embracing the DIY ethos is understandable, but it must never come at the cost of your health. Your safety—and the safety of your loved ones—should always come frst.

Northern Rivers Rail Trail earns Sustainable Tourism Accreditation

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has offcially been accredited as a sustainable tourism business under the Australian Tourism Industry Council’s (ATIC) Quality Tourism Framework (QTF) program. This recognition underscores Tweed Shire Council’s dedication to delivering exceptional and sustainable tourism experiences while setting a new standard for regional tourism in Australia.

The Sustainable

Tourism Accreditation, the largest and longestrunning sustainability program in the Australian tourism industry, integrates best practices across environmental, cultural, social, and commercial operations.

The Rail Trail joins over 3,000 businesses nationwide participating in the program.

A Milestone for Tweed Shire

Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry celebrated the achievement as a signifcant step forward for regional tourism:

“This accreditation is testament to our commitment to

sustainable tourism and a thriving local economy. It refects our ongoing efforts to enhance visitor experiences while adhering to the highest standards of environmental and business responsibility.”

This accreditation marks the frst Councilmanaged tourism product in the region to earn this recognition and aligns with the goals of the Tweed Shire Council’s Destination Management Plan (DMP).

“The Rail Trail’s success demonstrates our dedication to excellence in tourism and responsible destination

management. We hope this achievement inspires other regional initiatives to pursue similar recognition,” Cr Cherry added.

Quality Tourism Framework (QTF) Accreditation Levels

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has achieved certifcation at two levels:

• Level 1 – Quality Tourism Essentials Establishes reliable and sustainable business practices, building customer confdence and supporting proftable tourism.

• Level 2 – Sustainable Tourism

Focuses on creating high-quality, engaging visitor experiences aligned with global trends in experiential tourism. This ensures visitors enjoy memorable and impactful experiences while preserving the natural environment.

Promoting Sustainable Tourism

The Rail Trail will prominently display the Quality Tourism Brandmark (QTB) across all promotional materials, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and quality for both residents and visitors. Tweed Shire

Council will collaborate with ATIC and engage in on-site assessments by expert inspectors to maintain these high standards over time. This milestone achievement supports the Tweed Shire Council’s vision outlined in its Destination Management Plan 2024-2030 (DMP), which prioritizes sustainable tourism and responsible destination management. For more information about Tweed Shire Council’s tourism initiatives, visit the Tweed Destination Management Plan 2024-2030 (DMP).

ROBERT HEYWARD

ROBERT HEYWARD

Council Launches Tweed Festive Shopfront Competition

Shopfronts online form.

Tweed Shire Council is inviting local retail businesses to participate in the inaugural Tweed Festive Shopfront Competition, a new initiative aimed at supporting local businesses and creating a vibrant festive atmosphere across the region.

The campaign, part of the Council’s Succeed in Tweed business support program, is a collaborative effort between Tweed Shire Council, the business chambers of Tweed Heads, Kingscliff, and Murwillumbah, and the Tweed Valley Weekly.

Bring Festive Cheer to Your Shopfront Retail businesses are encouraged to decorate their shops or shopfronts with a Christmas or festive theme and register their displays via the Tweed Festive

All registered entries will be featured on an interactive map,

Local businesses can win prize packs for festive displays

showcasing the locations of festive displays and encouraging locals to explore Tweed’s shopping precincts while promoting the “shop local” message this holiday season.

Supporting Local Businesses

Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry said the competition was launched to celebrate local businesses and inspire the community to support them during the festive period.

“This wonderful initiative is a fantastic way for businesses to connect with their community. It adds an extra layer of festive spirit to our shopping

precincts and inspires residents to choose local this Christmas,” Cr Cherry said.

“By shopping local, we not only beneft our small business economy but also support local jobs and create a thriving community.”

Local business chambers, including Tweed Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Business Kingscliff, Business Murwillumbah, and the Tweed Valley Weekly, will actively

Merry Christmas LismoreCouncil unveils spectacular upcycled Christmas tree

Lismore City Council has unveiled its iconic sustainable Christmas tree, signalling the start of a vibrant month-long series of festivities for the community and local businesses, and underscoring that Lismore is thriving and open for business.

Now in its ninth year, the upcycled Christmas tree stands proudly at the corner of Keen and Magellan Streets, continuing a tradition that began in 2015. This unique tree, made entirely from repurposed materials, is a meaningful gift from Council staff to the Lismore community.

Jon Gibbons, General Manager of Lismore City Council, highlighted the signifcance of the tree.

“Each year, our

upcycled tree serves as a symbol of sustainability, inspiring people to think creatively about giving materials a second life through upcycling,” he said.

This year’s tree boasts a stunning rainbow theme, featuring hundreds of upcycled PET bottles ranging in size from 600ml to 2 litres. The bottles were sourced from the Recycling & Recovery Centre and generously donated by staff.

The project was led

by Council’s Martin Soutar, who praised the collaborative efforts of staff from various departments.

“Our tree is more than a decoration; it’s a message of resilience and community spirit—a gift from us to the people and businesses of Lismore, created with dedication and teamwork,” Soutar said.

To explore the full calendar of Christmas events in Lismore, visit www.xmasinlismore. com.au.

encourage participation by visiting stores and promoting the initiative.

Prizes and Recognition Businesses with the most creative and impressive displays will have the chance to win one of three prize packs, which include:

• A $500 Gift Pay e-voucher.

• A one-year complimentary membership to their local business chamber.

• A quarter-page advertising package

in the Tweed Valley Weekly.

One winner will be selected for each of the three precinct areas, with judging by representatives from Tweed Shire Council, local business chambers, and the Tweed Valley Weekly.

How to Participate Interested businesses can register their entry online by uploading a photograph of their decorated shopfront, along with their business

name and address.

Eligible businesses must have a physical premises with a festive display visible to the public.

• Registrations open: Friday, 29 November.

• Registrations close: Midnight, Sunday, 15 December.

For full terms and conditions or to learn more, visit the Council’s Christmas webpage.

Let’s make this festive season a celebration of community, creativity, and local pride!

Ballina Community Clothes Swap

This December, ditch the Black Friday frenzy and join the Ballina Community Clothes Swap for a refreshing and sustainable approach to fashion.

Hosted by the Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG), this free event is your chance to breathe new life into your wardrobe while reducing textile waste.

Event Details

• What: Clothes Swap & Creative Mending Workshop

• When: Wednesday, 11 December 2024, 12pm–2pm

• Where: Northern Rivers Community Gallery, 44 Cherry Street, Ballina

• Cost: Free

• Ages: Open to all Why Join the Clothes Swap?

Every year, Australians buy an average of 56 new clothing items, but shockingly, 6,000 kilos of clothing are sent to landfll every 10 minutes. In Ballina Shire alone, textiles make up 8% of kerbside landfll bins, making textile waste a signifcant environmental issue. The community clothes swap tackles these

challenges by:

• Encouraging a circular economy where pre-loved clothing gets a new home.

• Offering a cost-free way to refresh your wardrobe.

• Creating an opportunity to connect with like-minded locals who care about sustainability. How It Works

To participate, bring your clean, quality clothing items to swap for tokens:

• Drop-off times:

o Tuesday, 10 December, 2pm–4pm

o Wednesday, 11 December, 10am–11am Tokens can then be exchanged for new-to-you items at the event. Clothing for all genders, sizes, and adaptive needs is welcome, and availability will depend on the contributions of participants.

Creative Mending Workshop

Alongside the clothes swap, join a free hands-on mending workshop with multi-disciplinary artist Pippin Nicholson. Learn simple, practical sewing techniques to repair and rejuvenate your garments using recycled materials.

• What to bring: A

clothing item to mend (optional). No prior sewing experience required.

• What’s provided: Tools, materials, and expert guidance.

“Mending and patching are not just cost-effective, they’re a creative way to fght fast fashion and reduce environmental impact,” said Pippin Nicholson.

A Step Towards Sustainability

“This event is a fun and practical way to address the challenges of fast fashion and textile waste,” said Justine Rowe, Council’s Resource Recovery Education Offcer.

Gallery Coordinator Imbi Davidson added, “By swapping clothes and embracing creativity, we’re not only reducing landfll but also building community connections. Together, we can foster a more sustainable future.”

For more information or to get involved, visit www. nrcgballina.com.au or call 02 6681 0530.

Let’s make fashion sustainable—one swap and stitch at a time!

ROBERT HEYWARD

Pictured: Mia Bozina from Andersons Treasure Store, Murwillumbah which has jumped right into the festive spirit

ROBERT HEYWARD

PLAYFORD, Rosemary

Passed away peacefully 29th November 2024 at the Lismore Base Hospital.

Much loved daughter of Frederick Leonard and Faith Playford (both dec).

Loved sister of Margaret and Russell, and sister-in-law of Winifred.

Aged 89 Years

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Rosemary’s funeral service to be held Friday 6th December 2024 at the Richmond Chapel Parkview Funeral Home, 21 Kalinga Street Ballina NSW, Commencing at 10.00am.

In Loving Memory of Heather Jean Hayward 27 August 1936-12 November 2024

Aged 88 Years

Late of Lismore

Passed away peacefully Tuesday 12th November.

Beloved wife of Albert for 65 years.

Loved mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, sister in law and aunty. A friend to all.

Sadly missed by the Grant and Hayward families. Privately buried on ursdav 28th November. Forever in Our Flearts

Funeral Notice

KINNEALLY, ELSIE

Passed away peacefully on Sunday 1 December 2024 Aged 97 years.

Dearly loved wife of Jack (decd).

Loved mother & mother in-law of Dennis (decd).

Anne & Allen, John (decd), Sharon & Mark, Darryl & Julie.

Cherished Grandmother of Anita, Brooke, Kylie, Nicole, Shane, Jack, Shaina, Ali.

Loving Great-grandmother of Bailey, Beau, Bridie, Layla, Austin, Bryce, and Skye.

Loved Great-Great-grandmother to Nyra.

Loved Sister of Marion, Bob, Clyde, Rita, Ethel, Stella, Jim, May (all dec’d)

‘Please wear bright colours’

Family and Friends are warmly invited to attend Elsie’s Funeral Service to be held at St Marks Anglican Church on Friday 6 December at 11:00am.

Live streaming link: https://parkviewfunerals.com.au/elsie-kinneally/

Funeral Notice

Funeral Notice

Roofing Services For Everything Roofing

• New & replacement metal roofs

• Painting of tile and metal roofs

• Roof repairs: tile and metal

• Guttering: whirly birds: mesh

• Emergency/insurance repairs

Phone office on 66811793 enquiries@rooftechroofing.com.au

2/32 Southern Cross Drive, Ballina Lic 303299C and 301815C www.rooftechroofing.com.au INSURANCE - COMMERCIAL STRATA - RESIDENTIAL

Low rates, friendly service

Email: northernriverstreeservice@gmail.com

WEATHER

FORECAST

Warnings See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog inland. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm. Light winds becoming northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. The chance of a storm inland. Light winds.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog on and east of the ranges. High chance of showers in the south, medium chance elsewhere. The chance of a storm. Light winds becoming

northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the day. Thursday. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. The chance of a storm. Light winds. New South Wales: Isolated showers or storms in the northwest, tending scattered in the northeast and central east. Isolated showers in the southeast. Possible heavy falls with storms. Dry and mostly sunny in the southwest. Daytime temperatures above average inland and near average along the coast. Southeast to northeasterly winds.

Thursday. Isolated to scattered showers of storms about the inland and into areas of the northeast, most likely in areas of the northern inland and ranges. Possible heavy falls with storms. Daytime temperatures about the south, tending near

average elsewhere. East to northeasterly winds, freshening about the coast.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Northerly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres south of Cape Byron. Swell: Easterly around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres north of Yamba. Weather: Partly cloudy.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: Northerly 15 to 25 knots decreasing to about 10 knots during the evening. Seas: 1 to 2 metres, decreasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the morning. Swell: Northeasterly around 1 metre. Weather: Partly cloudy. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening.

Gold Coast Waters:

Winds: North to northeasterly 10 to 15 knots. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Easterly 1.5 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy.

A mouthwatering grand fnal replay will be plenty of compensation for Clarence Valley cricket fans after persistent wet weather washed out the latest round of the CRCA frst grade competition.

Premiers Harwood were scheduled to provide this year’s competition leaders

South Services/Westlawn with their stiffest challenge of the season.

But with play on both days abandoned without a ball bowled, players have switched their focus to the last games before the Christmas break.

The clash between Harwood and Lawrence will provide the premiers with their biggest challenge so far this season, having romped to three wins from four games.

And two of those wins were just two wickets each from outright results.

For Lawrence, currently third on the ladder, it has been a different season.

Admittedly undefeated, with just a touch more luck, they could be challenging for the competition lead.

Lawrence had Souths/ Westlawn on the ropes in the season opener, only for rain to allow Souths to snatch a draw.

In game two, Lawrence showed their true form, thrashing Tucabia Copmanhurst by 98 runs and against Coutts Crossing they had 180 on the board and Coutts at 0-9 when the rain came.

Lawrence would be determined to show they are a better team than the one that caved to Harwood in the 2023/24 grand fnal.

With a core of former Harwood players providing the backbone of the team, they are well aware of the Harwood blueprint of applying relentless pressure on opponents with the bat, ball and in the feld.

In the current competition they are the best equipped team to take on the premiers at the own game.

But that said, any team playing Harwood faces a huge ask.

In their last innings against Tucabia,

Harwood smashed 7d343 from just 53.4 overs and then rocked through Tucabia’s batters for 47, scored in 47 overs.

Harwood’s frst drop Coby Tabor has two centuries in three hits and when they got into a spot of bother against GDSC Easts, their opening bowler, Troy Turner, smacked 115 to see them pass 300.

But Lawrence has enough talent of their own to ask questions of Harwood and would like nothing more than

to slash the tyres of their downriver rivals before the Christmas break.

At Ellem Oval in Grafton, Souths Westlawn will be keen to see if their luck holds against Tucabia.

Yes, they lead the competition, but with fewer wins than nearest rivals Harwood.

The outright win they secured to snare the lion’s share of those points came after they were behind on the frst innings against Coutts.

Tucabia also have a few

demons to slay. Their understrength team was mauled in the last outing against Harwood and rain no doubt saved them.

The tiniest “but” in this situation was they did hold on to use all the help the rain gave them to save them from an outright loss.

At Lower Fisher Turf, Grafton, Coutts and Easts will be looking for their frst win of the season.

Coutts has been so close.

They recovered from a fearful hammering in their opening game to secure a frst innings lead against Souths, only to collapse for 31 in the second innings.

They held Lawrence to 180 in the next game and were 0-9 before weather decided that one.

After the Christmas break, eyes turn quickly to semi-fnal spots. So far the top three are undefeated, but rain has had more to do with that than playing form.

At the end of this game played over the next two weekends, the competition goes into recess until January 11.

In the new year their will be fve two-day games to decide semifnal positions.

CASINO GOLF CLUB RESULTS

Due to insuffcient player participation, no competition was held on Sunday, December 1, 2024. The upcoming event, sponsored by Kings Bakery Casino, is scheduled for Sunday, December 8, 2024. It will feature a single stroke play over the top 11 holes, serving as the monthly medal competition. Visitors are welcome to join, with tee times available from 6:30 am to 7:30 am.

CASINO RSM WOMEN’S BOWLS RESULTS -

WEDNESDAY, 27/11

• Ivy Watson, Carmel Doyle, and Judy Carthew

Defeated: D. Skinner, Maria Hellyar, and Marlene Jordan.

Other Rink Winners:

• Annette James and Denise Grice

Defeated: Mary Mead and Jan Dwyer.

• Jan Cooke and Raelene Skirrey

Defeated: Helen Lavelle and Chris Haynes.

Well done to all participants for a competitive day of bowls!

The team with the lowest margin emerged as the winners of the day. Congratulations to the following players: Winners of the Day:

CHERRY STREET

CROQUET CLUB SPORTS RESULTS

Association Croquet

• P. Waters defeated G. Porter: 20 - 9

Ricochet Croquet

• G. Kerr & B. Waters defeated R. Poynting & P. Waters: 16 - 11

• H. Young & N.

Poynting defeated B. Wellings & N. Barnes: 9 - 7

• P. Bolte & M. Russell defeated B. Bill & R.

Allen: 14 - 13

• A. Mangan & M.

Russell defeated J. Bate & R. Allen: 12 - 11

• J. Doust & B. Bill defeated P. Bolte & M. Field: 14 - 13

• G. Kerr & N.

Poynting defeated R. Poynting: 12 - 11

Samoa Golf Croquet

Classic No. 2

1. O. Beverly & T.

Shakespeare

2. D. Jones & T. Kew

3. F. Gale & B. Thompson

4. J. Trousdale & C. Blackwell

NSW Ricochet Handicap Singles

1. K. Green

2. D. Scott

3. M. Aplin

4. P. Gordon

5. J. Wilson

6. R. Flint

Australian Association Croquet Singles

Championships

1. D. McCormick

2. C. Hyland

3. L. Berryman

4. T. Bassett

5. S. Pearce

6. C. Borlase

Upcoming Events

• Ballina Friendship Day & Northern Rivers Area Croquet Presentation Day

Date: December 13th, 9:00 AM

Location: Ballina

Note: All are welcome to attend!

Congratulations to all participants and winners!

CORAKI VETERANS GOLF RESULTSTHURSDAY, 28/11/24

A fantastic turnout for the event with great results across the board:

• Club Ham Winner: B. McDonald

• Veterans Ham Winner: A. Ganter

• Lucky Card Draw Ham: J. Celich

Other Results:

• 2nd

• 3rd

• Free Game Winner: M. Fairfull

Chicken/Ball Winners: K. Rodgers, D. Knox, P. Martin, J. Braby, J. Ellis, S. Dawson, D. Vagne, T. Woods, J. Larkin, G. Flaherty, T. Newton, G. O’Connor, M. Bruggy. Nearest Pins:

• 3rd/12th: M. Bruggy

• 6th/15th: J. Braby

Upcoming Event:

• Monthly Medal: Thursday, 5/12/24

• Details: This marks the frst medal event for the new year.

• Start Time: Shotgun start at 8:00 AM. Till then, happy golfng!

Vets: P. Bruggy

Vets: G. Tait

TIM HOWARD

Former Brothers player Jamie Firth has boosted the ranks of Coutts Crossing this season.

The YETI Australian Junior Surfng Titles (AJST) launched in style today at Woonona Beach, with clean three-foot surf and light northeast winds creating ideal conditions for Australia’s top junior surfers. Over the next seven days, more than 250 competitors will vie for critical ranking points and the chance to represent the Irukandjis Team at the 2025 ISA World Junior Surfng Championship.

Day 1 Highlights Contest Director Jeremy Barnett praised the conditions.

“Today’s clean threefoot swell and light winds made for an epic day of competition. Standouts included Lachlan Arghyros (Under 16 Men) and Rosie Richardson (Under 16 Women), both scoring 7.13. Kai Coleman in the Under 14 Boys set the bar high with an excellent 8.25.”

Evie Wilson (Marcus Beach, QLD), who won her heat in the U14 Girls division, shared her excitement.

“I went in with a positive mindset, waited for the sets, and they came through. The waves have been really fun, and the competition bank is perfect.”

Kade Kelly (Newcastle, NSW), advancing in the U14 Boys division, said “It’s been really fun. Winning an Australian Junior Surfng Title would mean everything to me—that’s my goal.”

What’s at Stake

LIAM JENNINGS

Australian athletes are poised for a golden start on the road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) announcing a record-breaking funding boost for sports across the nation.

The AJST includes divisions for U14 to U18 junior men and women, along with school-based competitions in the U16 to U19 (MR Shield) divisions. Champions in the U16 and U18 categories will earn a coveted spot on the Irukandjis Team, joining an esteemed legacy of surfers like Stephanie Gilmore, Mick Fanning, and Tyler Wright. Upcoming Action Competition continues tomorrow with the Under 18 Boys and Girls divisions. Similar clean and peaky conditions are forecast, promising another exciting day of surfng at Woonona Beach.

The fnal two days of the event will be broadcast live on Surfng Australia’s YouTube channel on:

• Saturday, 30th November

• Sunday, 1st December

Event Details

• Dates: 24 November – 1 December 2024

• Location: Woonona Beach, Wollongong, NSW

• Event Website: australianjuniorsurfng titles.com

Proudly Supported By

The YETI Australian Junior Surfng Titles are backed by YETI, Destination NSW, Destination Wollongong, Surfng NSW, BLACKROLL, Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort, KJ Scaffolding, and Surfers for Climate. Stay tuned for updates and live results via LiveHeatshttps://liveheats.com/ events/232103

Win Well Funding: Supporting

Elite Success

Following a year-long consultation with sports organizations on strategies and performance goals for LA2028, the Win Well initiative highlights include:

The funding increase sees 95% of Olympic and Paralympic summer sports receiving signifcant boosts, with an average annual rise of 64% compared to the lead-up to the Paris Games. In total, $385 million will be invested into 70 sports over the next 18 months, supporting the development of Australian athletes from grassroots participation to elite performance.

This marks the frst time the ASC has implemented funding initiatives encompassing all levels of sport, aligning with its sectorwide strategies: High Performance (Win Well) and Participation (Play Well).

• Broader support for sports: Funding has expanded to include 68 Olympic and Paralympic programs, up from 54.

• Para sports funding doubled: An additional $54.9 million will be allocated to para sports over two years.

• Newly funded teams: Seven teams, including

Lacrosse, Flag Football, Goalball, and Blind Football, will receive support.

• Addressing sector needs: Over $25 million has been earmarked for two one-off investment streams focusing on workforce planning and staff development.

Play Well Funding: Building Inclusive Participation

The Play Well initiative will fund 63 sports, focusing on increasing participation and creating inclusive environments.

Key elements include:

• Record funding reach: More sports than ever are now supported

by the ASC.

• Communityfocused investments:

$43.9 million will be allocated to develop safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces for sports participation.

• Support for emerging sports: Five organizations, including Australian Dragon Boat Federation, Handball Australia, and the Gaelic Football and Hurling Association of Australasia, will receive funding for the frst time.

• Workforce expansion: The number of personnel dedicated to participation activities will more than double.

Timeline for Funding Allocation

All funding under the Win Well and Play Well programs will be distributed from 1 January 2025 to 30 June 2026.

This sweeping investment package refects the ASC’s commitment to fostering excellence and inclusion in Australian sport, ensuring a robust pathway from playgrounds to podiums.

THE SPORTZOLOGIST

In the early hours of Sunday morning, the Wallabies suffered a narrow loss to Ireland at Landsdowne Road in their fnal match of the Spring Tour.

However, the men in gold’s brave performance against the number 2 ranked nation in world rugby, does give Wallaby fans hope for a resurgent period under the tenure of new coach Joe Schmidt.

After earlier victories against England and Wales, Joe Schmidt’s squad were hoping to emulate the feat of the 1984 Wallabies who won all four Tests in an historic Grand Slam, however, losses to

Scotland and Ireland snuffed out that dream. Forty years ago, the 1984 Wallabies had set themselves the goal of at least improving on the 1981-82 side who had won only one Test, a tight victory 16-12 against Ireland at Lansdowne Road.

Also under a new coach in Alan Jones, the 1984 tourists intended to play an open style of rugby based around the backline skills of Nick Farr-Jones, Mark Ella and David Campese, while their forward pack looked to dominate opponents in set pieces and open play.

Captain and outside centre Andrew Slack was the ideal calm and steady head the Wallabies needed to lead them, while his centre partner

Michael Lynagh, slotted over penalty goals and conversions in his sleep.

The Wallabies started with a 19-3 victory over England in front of 65,000 fans at Twickenham, while at Lansdowne Road, they fnished strongly with a late Mark Ella feld goal and try to upset the Irish 16-9.

Gaining in confdence, the Wallabies dominated Wales from the beginning to run out comfortable winners 289, leaving just Scotland remaining between them and an historical Grand Slam.

Mark Ella himself was on the cusp of history having scored in all three Tests so far, and it wouldn’t be long before the slick Wallaby machine took control of

the match.

Ella delivered a try to Campese on a platter, then crossed for his own historic fourth touchdown as Australia swamped the Scots 37-12 completing only the sixth Grand Slam by a touring country.

In 2025 the Wallabies hope to continue the improvement they’ve shown on the Spring Tour, when they do battle against the might of the British and Irish Lions on our home turf.

To succeed against the Lions Joe Schmidt’s men will need to be at the top of their game, but, with an ever improving playing style and work ethic the future is looking brighter for Wallaby fans.

JEFF GIBBS

Lucas Deffenti in action. Credit- Aaron Hughes

Lacrosse players Olivia Parker and Campbell Mackinnon.

With the 2024 Australian Surfng Awards fast approaching, Surfng Australia is excited to unveil the fnalists for the prestigious Surf Photo of the Year, presented by Tracks.

This year’s Top 10 features breathtaking images from both seasoned professionals and emerging talents in surf photography, each bringing a unique perspective to the art of storytelling through the lens.

From self-taught photographers capturing personal milestones to industry veterans documenting iconic surf breaks and athletes, the fnalists showcase an extraordinary diversity of skill and vision.

The photos blend land and ocean imagery, celebrating the power and beauty of the sea, and were selected by an expert panel comprising representatives from

Tracks, Surfng Australia, and independent judges.

Tracks Editor in Chief Luke Kennedy said: “In addition to their technical excellence, these 10 images invite viewers to appreciate the full spectrum of themes and emotions – fear, triumph, self-mastery, conquest, beauty, majesty, elation – those sensations are all there. You will have a favourite, but each crystallised moment conveys something profound about the surfng experience. If we can’t be in the situation ourselves, the photographers and the surfers have given us an opportunity to live vicariously through the moments they have captured together.”

The Top 10 photographs will be exhibited at the Australian Surfng Awards on December 7 at HOTA, Home of the Arts, on the Gold Coast, Queensland.

Finalists for the 2024 Surf Photo of the Year,

presented by Tracks –

Top 10 (in no particular order)

• Duncan Macfarlane (featuring Shane Dorian)

• Sam Venn (featuring Lachie Rombouts)

• Luca Salisbury (featuring Chase Hardaker)

• Andrew Shield (lineup)

• Andrew Shield (featuring Lungi Slabb)

• Nick Nairn-Smith (featuring Dan Ross)

• Ben Jackson (featuring Noa Deane)

• Josh Tabone (featuring Kai McKenzie)

• Mark Onorati (featuring Corey Lawson)

• Nick Green (featuring Laura Enever)

About Surf Photo of the Year

This award honours a single, striking image that encapsulates the essence of surfng— whether it’s a surfer, a lineup, or a lifestyle shot. Eligible photos must have been taken in 2024 by an Australian

photographer, anywhere in the world. Each photographer can submit up to three images.

About the Australian Surfng Awards

Celebrating the achievements of Australia’s best surfers and the contributions of those working behind the scenes—event organizers, business professionals, media, and photographers—the Australian Surfng Awards highlight all aspects of the surfng community.

The 2024 awards will take place on Saturday, December 7, at HOTA, Home of the Arts, on the Gold Coast, Queensland.

The evening, hosted by surf media icon Vaughan Blakey, will feature 19 award categories, culminating in the induction of Luke Egan into the Australian Surfng Hall of Fame.

The winner of the Hyundai She’s Electric competition will also be announced during the event.

LIAM JENNINGS

Judo Australia is on a mission to make the sport accessible to all Australians, on and off the mat, with every state and territory federation uniting behind its frst nationally co-designed participation strategy.

The Judo in Australia Participation Plan seeks to create an inclusive environment where individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can fnd their place in the sport.

In partnership with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC), Judo Australia has embraced the ASC’s innovative Play Well Planning Framework, making it one of the frst national sporting organisations to adopt this approach.

Judo Australia CEO Beck Hamilton acknowledged that bringing all states and territories together was a challenging process but emphasized that the alignment of efforts would deliver signifcant benefts for the sport nationwide.

“We are so proud as a collective of what we are about to undertake. It was a great example of co-design in action,” Hamilton said.

“It was a pleasure to

lead and be a part of the process.”

The national organization collaborated with all state and territory federations in preparation for a twoday co-design session held in July.

Judo Australia Chair Simon Read highlighted that this initiative is not just about boosting participation but also about fostering a strong, inclusive judo community built on the values of safety, enjoyment, and respect.

“The Play Well Strategy is not just about numbers; it’s about creating spaces and opportunities where people feel connected and supported in their judo journey,” Read said.

“Our focus on engaging underrepresented groups, supporting grassroots clubs, and fostering lifelong connections to the sport is at the heart of this strategy, and we look forward to seeing these efforts come to life across the nation.”

The Judo in Australia Participation Plan was offcially endorsed by all state and territory federations at their recent annual general meeting.

Judo Australia have developed a new participation plan using the ASC Play Well Planning Framework to encourage more Aussies to join the sport.

IAN ROGERS

Finalists for the 2024 Australian Surfng Awards - Surf Photo of the Year, presented by Tracks.

An unforgettable night of Medieval mirth and merriment!

7th September - (two course dinner and show)

GRAND FINAL REPLAY CHRISTMAS PRESENT

Come and enjoy a Brilliant Night of Medieval Fun & Feasting!

7th September - (two course dinner and show) An unforgettable night of Medieval mirth and merriment!

Come and enjoy a Brilliant Night of Medieval Fun & Feasting!