The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 248

Eviction meeting

Eight-year-old questions council eviction notices

pushed misinformation into the debate.

He said the general manager, Laura Black’s, insistence that legislation outlawed single use occupancy of these sites was overstated.

“The only legislation I can fnd says something about not encouraging singular use,” he said.

“It doesn’t say you’d be committing an offence if you allow singular use. It doesn’t say you’ve got to evict these people.”

He said under the current lease there was the capability to have multiple users for each site.

also engage a no-win/ no-fee legal frm to seek compensation, potentially launching a massive class action seeking millions of dollars for the distress the council’s actions had caused residents.

However, Mr Chase said he hoped the council would see reason and change its decision at Friday’s extraordinary meeting.

An eight-year-old girl who calls a semipermanent holiday van her home has provided a poignant description of what Clarence Valley Council’s decision to evict semi-permanent caravan park residents really means.

The girl, introduced as Peppa, spoke at a packed public meeting in the Maclean Showground Pavilion on Sunday.

The meeting was called to protest against the council’s decision last month to order semipermanent residents to leave their sites in the four council-owned holiday parks by 30 June.

“The frst I heard about losing our homes, it was very sad,” a shy but determined Peppa said into the microphone, in front of around 180 people packed into the pavilion.

“And it is not fair on everyone else who is losing their homes too, because people call that home.

“Nobody actually calls it ‘an 180-day rule’… people call it their home.”

Peppa delivered her address clutching her mother’s hand. It moved many in the crowd to tears, including Cr Lynne Cairns.

The councillor also addressed the meeting,

where she revealed that she and two fellow councillors have called an extraordinary meeting for Friday, where she will move a rescission motion.

It will read:

We the undersigned give notice of a motion to rescind Council’s resolution at Item 9. Late Items of Business and Matters Arising in the 20 March 2025 Council Meeting. That Council:

• 1. Note that council staff and their role as Crown Land Managers wish to follow what is considered industry best practice, to phase out holiday vans.

• 2. Consider any requests to extend lease agreements for a further year on a case-by-case basis.

We the undersigned propose to move the following proposed motion:

Proposed Motion

That Council:

1. Write to all of the occupants who have long-term (casual occupation) agreements relating to the right to occupy moveable dwelling sites in Brooms Head, Iluka, Minnie Water and Wooli Holiday Parks, and who received notice advising them of the termination of their long-term (casual occupation) agreements, informing them of the following:

a) Council will not continue with the current

termination of the longterm (casual occupation) agreements for the moveable dwelling sites used by the long-term casual occupants in Brooms Head, Iluka, Minnie Water and Wooli Holiday Parks.

b) Council will only consider any changes to the current site uses of the Brooms Head, Iluka, Minnie Water and Wooli Holiday Parks after Plans of Management are adopted.

2. Crs Cairns and Clancy called for the extraordinary meeting, and Cr Cristie Yager joined them in supporting the rescission motion.

It has been barely four weeks since the council sent out what amounted to eviction notices to 136 owners of semipermanent vans in its parks at Iluka, Brooms Head, Minnie Water and Wooli.

The move has galvanised the site owners into action, and they have formed an incorporated body, The Clarence Valley Semi-Permanent Van Committee, which called Sunday’s meeting.

Two committee members, Simon Chase and Tony Everingham, addressed the meeting to counter claims the council had made about the status of the sites.

Mr Chase said there were a number of areas where the council had

“There’s 10 people on my agreement — me, my partner — we are the primary occupants,” he said.

“We’re allowed to have eight other people. It doesn’t say they have to be family, or who they have to be. So it’s not single use.”

Mr Chase said there had been a lack of

He said his discussions with councillors who attended the meeting — Crs Clancy, Cairns, Shane Causley, Cristie Yager and Debrah Novak — led him to believe there could be a change, but only time would tell.

“We’ll see what Friday brings,” he said. “Because if nothing happens Friday, it’s a phone call to my solicitor, and we then start taking the legal route.”

Mr Everingham told the meeting he had uncovered further

communication from council, and despite multiple emails to the general manager since early March, he had received just one response.

He said she had repeatedly refused to talk to him or the newly formed committee.

He said the committee had enlisted the services of one of Australia’s leading barristers in Crown Land Management and Native Title, Dr Lindsay Taylor, to assist them if the case becomes legal.

Mr Chase said the committee would

information disputing the council’s claim that Clarence and Tweed were the only LGAs allowing semi-permanent stays in caravan parks.

Mr Everingham said the committee had contacted all councils in NSW and found that 13 allowed semi-permanent site leases, and two were even advertising for more people to take them up as part of their business plans.

He said NSW Crown Lands had advised him it was not the body seeking the evictions, and the

Eight-year-old speaker Peppa, poses some serious questions about the decision to evict semi-permanent caravan park residents from council-owned park in the Clarence Valley when she addressed a public meeting in Maclean on Sunday. Photo: Little Big River/ Barbara Winters.

From left three of the councillors at the meeting in Maclean on Sunday, Cr Greg Clancy, Cr Cristie Yager, reporter Rod Stevens and Cr Lynne Cairns. Photo: Little Big River/ Barbara Winters.

TIM HOWARD

Clarence Valley councillor Cristie Yager’s tilt at Federal politics didn’t survive the frst 24 hours after posting the news on social media.

Ms Yager enjoyed a stunning entry into political life in the 2024 local government elections when Clarence Valley ratepayers voted her the most popular candidate.

Early last week it appeared she was on the verge of joining the race for the seat of Page, sending out a media release that put forward her platform.

But within 24 hours she had changed her mind, but has left the option open to run for the seat in future elections.

Ms Yager said after posting her announcement she was swamped with advice urging her to reconsider.

“You are right. All of

you,” she said. “I ran for the local government election and you chose to place me there and that is where my commitment and focus should remain.”

In a post on Facebook that stretched beyond 2000 words Ms Yager talked about why she considered running for Page.

“I felt an urgency, perhaps with the election date fnally announced and then seeing what our voting options are I felt pressure to go where I was needed but to feel I was ‘leaving you’ really played on my mind,” she said.

“Still does. I’ve felt the urgency in helping our country and people for a long time and I don’t imagine it will stop now, I’ve sat back for so long, and that’s on me.”

But she’s left the door open for a run in a future election.

“A little longer can’t hurt too much,” she said.

Ms Yager said another factor was discomfort at the thought of accepting the public funding that comes to all candidates

who exceed the 4% vote quota, that could net her $3.35 a vote.

She did not want to “potentially proft from

losing”, which she thought likely.

And she was also uncomfortable bombarding people with last-minute campaign tactics.

She preferred a more organic from of campaigning she used campaigning for council, which was: “more of me just doing what I do, publicly.”

But she remained concerned about national issues and was critical of the priorities of politicians of all stripes.

“We’ve left things to bloody idiots or those who won’t rock the boat… where is your fght?” she said.

She said the costof-living crisis, the struggles of farmers, and the need for better education and crime prevention were important.

She also had no time for “climate alarmism”, advocating for “climate adaptation, not fear.”

She opposed large-scale wind and solar farms in the Clarence, arguing for more responsible energy consumption.

Although she has stepped away from federal candidacy, she would continue engaging with her community.

“I will be going out and meeting our neighbours, one by one, shaking their hands, sensing their energy, giving them my time and truly listening to the stories of their lives,” she said.

She remained committed to advocating for change, just in her own way: “Doing things the only way I know how, my way.”

$499,950 $339,950

Clarence Valley councillor Cristie Yager’s notion of standing for the Federal seat of Page barely lasted a day after she notifed the community of her choice early last week.

continued from page 2

council had not sought their advice before acting.

Eviction Meeting

regular visitor to the Iluka park and even during peak periods the park would only be about 90% full.

use their van for six months a year.

that,” she said.

“Anyone with any amount of common sense knows this.

Mr Everingham also questioned whether the council had conducted a cost-beneft analysis of its plan.

“Outside of Christmas and Easter, they would

be lucky to be 30% to 60% occupied,” he said.

He noted the council had offered to remove vans, which could be extremely costly — running into millions of dollars if asbestos was involved.

He also pointed out that the main income fowing into the council’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund appeared to come largely from semipermanent site fees.

The committee also disputed the council’s claim that it was making the decision to free up more sites for casual users.

Mr Chase said they received almost daily photographic evidence from park residents showing many empty camping sites.

He said he was a

By

The committee opened the foor to site owners, and several took the opportunity to share their stories.

One resident from Iluka, Andrea Stone, said the decision would leave her and her husband homeless.

Ms Stone, a retired registered nurse, said the rental crisis had robbed them of a permanent home.

“Recently we lost our permanent rental property,” she said.

“They doubled the rent, and there’s no way, as age pensioners, that we can afford to live paying that sort of rent anymore.”

She said they scrupulously followed the 180-day rule, which mandated lessees only

For the other six months, the couple house-sat or stayed with friends or relatives.

But in this time they also battled serious health problems, including her husband going through two bouts of cancer.

During this time they continued to search for permanent accommodation, without success.

“We were looking for further accommodation, but we didn’t even apply for one place, because there was no point applying for anything we couldn’t afford,” she said.

“It was just a hopeless situation.”

Ms Stone said it had become so hopeless that when she recently applied for crisis housing in Grafton, she was told they would most likely have to live in their car, or pitch a tent in South Grafton’s tent city.

“It was absolutely shocking,” Ms Stone said.

“And when I heard what that girl said to me, it wasn’t being nasty — she was just stating a fact.

“This is where you’d probably have to end up.”

Ms Stone said she was also deeply concerned about the effects such decisions would have on the mental health of site owners.

“You don’t have to be a retired nurse to know

“Even my grandsons, who are only 20, know.

“They say: ‘But what about the people you know? What are they going to do? How are they going to feel? Will something happen to them?’

“And everyone’s just gobsmacked that this has actually occurred.”

Ms Stone said she would also make a deputation to Friday’s extraordinary meeting to talk about the emotional impact the decision would have on those involved.

She said the decision would also hurt the wider communities outside the parks, which relied on permanent and semipermanent residents for business during quiet periods.

“I’m part of Rotary here in Iluka,” she said. “We shop here. We buy petrol. We go to the bait shop. We use every single shop in this town.

“We support everybody — the butcher, the baker, the chemist, the doctor, the hairdresser, post offce, the dress shops, the art galleries, the fower shop — you name it, we all contribute to this community in a lot of ways.”

A Clarence Valley Council spokesperson said the council would not comment on the matter until after Friday’s meeting.

Byron Shire Urges Federal Government to Boost Local Funding

Byron Shire Council Demands Doubling of Federal Grants to Meet Local Infrastructure and Service Pressures**

Byron Shire Council is calling on the Australian Government to urgently double Federal Assistance Grants from 0.5 percent to 1 percent of total tax revenue, warning that local governments are under unprecedented strain from rising community expectations, aging infrastructure, and climate-related disasters.

Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said councils were being asked to do more than ever before with shrinking fnancial support, especially in regions like the Northern Rivers that face frequent natural disasters and housing pressures.

“Local governments are expected to deliver more services than ever before, but funding has not kept up,”

Mayor Ndiaye said. “Proper investment in councils is essential for improving the quality of life for everyone, no matter where they live.”

A 2024 SGS Economics report revealed that the share of national tax revenue allocated to local governments has fallen from 0.83 percent in 2000 to just 0.5 percent today. Despite managing

one-third of Australia’s public infrastructure and 77 percent of the road network, local governments remain dependent on limited and inconsistent funding.

“We’re being left to do vital work with crumbs,” Mayor Ndiaye said, pointing to fndings from the NSW Auditor General and the Country Mayors Association of NSW as evidence of the urgent need for funding reform.

Councils now provide services that go well beyond roads and rubbish — including libraries, health initiatives, childcare, disaster recovery, and airport management. Yet federal support remains minimal.

With over 200,000 employees in 400 occupations, councils manage $640 billion in assets and operate on $38 billion annually, highlighting their essential role in national service delivery.

With the next federal election approaching, Mayor Ndiaye urged both major parties to prioritise a fairer funding model for councils.

“It’s time the Australian Government got real about the role we play and gave us the support we need to serve our communities sustainably,” she said.

Janelle Saffin MP MEMBER FOR LISMORE

It was standing room only in the Maclean Showground Pavilion on Sunday when an estimated 180 people turned up to protest at the Clarence Valley Council decision to evict semi-permanent residents from its caravan parks.

Photo: Little Big River/Barbara Winters.

Jack Link’s, Australia’s leading meat snack brand and a proud local manufacturer based in Casino, NSW, has announced a major three-year sponsorship agreement with the Casino Bulls Rugby Union Club, commencing with the 2025 season.

As part of the new partnership, Jack Link’s

will feature prominently as a major sponsor, with its branding to appear on the back of all team jerseys—from juniors (Under 7s to Under 16s) to seniors (Colts through to First Grade) across both men’s and women’s competitions.

The partnership highlights Jack Link’s strong commitment to community and quality,

values that align closely with the Casino Bulls’ focus on performance, development, and excellence. Together, both organisations aim to provide critical support for the club, its players, and the broader Casino rugby community.

“We are excited to partner with the Casino Bulls for the 2025 season,” said Dan Bitti,

Jack Link’s Signs Major ThreeYear Sponsorship Deal with Casino Bulls Rugby Union Club

Marketing Director APAC for Jack Link’s. “The Bulls represent community spirit, passion, and hard work—values that Jack Link’s proudly shares. As we continue to expand our presence in Australia, we’re committed to supporting local talent and creating real opportunities for growth in our region.”

A key feature of the partnership is the launch of the Jack Link’s Casino Bulls Development Program, a new initiative designed to support and fund the development of outstanding local players. The program will help cover participation costs and provide resources to

young athletes to pursue their potential in the sport.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Jack Link’s on board,” said Luke Serone, President of the Casino Bulls Rugby Union Club. “This sponsorship provides crucial support for all our teams and plays a vital role in securing the future of rugby in

our community. The Development Program will allow us to continue nurturing emerging talent and strengthening the club from the ground

This announcement follows Jack Link’s recent commitment as major sponsor of Casino Beef Week, reinforcing the company’s deep and ongoing investment in the Casino community.

As one of the region’s largest employers, Jack Link’s continues to champion local partnerships that drive opportunity, development, and pride across the Northern Rivers.

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Country Mayors Demand Urgent Federal Action on Council Funding Crisis

ROBERT HEYWARD

The NSW Country Mayors Association (CMA) has issued a strong warning to Australia’s political leaders, criticising both major parties for ignoring the worsening fnancial crisis engulfng regional councils and failing to act on recommendations outlined in the recent Interim Report into Local Government Sustainability.

CMA Chairman and Temora Mayor, Rick Firman OAM, said the ongoing refusal by the federal government and opposition to commit to increased Financial Assistance Grants (FAGs) demonstrates a concerning disregard for the essential role local councils play in delivering community services.

“Despite repeated calls from every major local government peak body and hundreds of councils, not a single political party has agreed to increase FAGs to

1% of total federal tax revenue,” Mayor Firman said. “Do they think we’ll go away if they keep ignoring us? Not likely!”

Mounting Financial Pressures

The CMA argues that declining Commonwealth contributions, alongside NSW’s rate pegging system and rapidly rising operational costs, are placing immense pressure on councils— particularly in regional, rural, and remote areas.

“Local Government is being expected to do more than ever before, but with less and less support,” Mayor Firman said. “We are at the point where many councils are barely able to maintain essential services and infrastructure.”

The situation is especially dire in country areas where councils are responsible for large territories and multiple townships. Delivering equitable access to facilities such as libraries, pools, waste services and recreational infrastructure comes

with signifcantly higher operational costs compared to urban councils.

“We’re managing areas the size of small European countries and delivering frontline services in every corner,”

Mayor Firman said. “But funding formulas simply don’t refect that reality.”

Councils Taking on More Responsibility Without Support

The Interim Report highlighted how councils are being increasingly relied upon to deliver infrastructure and services once handled by federal or state governments. Yet Commonwealth funding has been steadily declining in real terms.

“It is completely unacceptable that we’re left to wear this responsibility without the resources to do it properly,” Mayor Firman said. “Local Government is flling the void—especially during natural disasters, housing shortages, and infrastructure crises—but we’re being left out of the national funding

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conversation.”

The CMA is particularly concerned about the current population-based model used to distribute FAGs. This approach disadvantages smaller councils where rate revenue is stagnant, and local fee generation is limited.

“In many rural councils, the FAGs make up more than 70% of their total income,”

Mayor Firman said. “We don’t have the revenue streams that city councils do. A one-size-fts-all model simply doesn’t work.”

Auditor-General Report Raises Red Flags

Deputy CMA Chair and Bega Valley

Shire Mayor, Russell Fitzpatrick, pointed to a damning NSW Auditor-General’s report released on 31 March 2025, which underscored the fragile state of local government fnances:

• 16 councils have insuffcient cash to cover three months of expenses

• 40% of councils failed to meet core

operating performance benchmarks

• 35 councils met none or only one of the three key fnancial sustainability measures

• Revenue growth, when adjusted for infation, is now negative

“These numbers speak for themselves,” Mayor Fitzpatrick said. “There’s no question we’re in a funding crisis, and if something doesn’t change soon, services will begin to fail.”

Political Silence Ahead of Federal Election

Ahead of the upcoming federal election, the CMA wrote to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, and Nationals Leader David Littleproud to request urgent meetings on the issue. To date, no formal responses have been received.

Mayor Firman said the lack of acknowledgement is unacceptable.

“We did have a Zoom meeting with Shadow Minister Darren Chester, and while we appreciated his time, there was

no indication that the Coalition is prepared to show leadership on this issue,” he said. “We seem to be on completely different wavelengths.”

Time for a Fairer, Long-Term Funding Model

The CMA is calling on all political parties and independents to commit to a fairer, needs-based funding model and to restore FAGs to 1% of federal taxation revenue.

“Local councils are managing $640 billion in public assets, employing over 200,000 people, and delivering the bulk of Australia’s communityfacing services,” Mayor Firman said. “Yet we’re expected to operate with shrinking, unreliable funding and no longterm certainty.”

He concluded with a blunt message: “Enough is enough. The status quo cannot continue. If the Commonwealth is serious about strengthening communities and building national resilience, it must properly fund local government.”

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Teamwork in the face of a cyclone

Cyclone Alfred showcased exceptional teamwork by those working for Southern Cross Care’s Northern Home Care Team.

They worked together to support clients, with Care Workers conducting welfare checks, Service Advisors making ongoing calls, meals and essentials delivered, and services adjusted to client needs and safety. Many staff members, local residents themselves, were also facing the cyclone’s threats of property damage, fooding and school closures. For many in the Northern Area, it was a retraumatising experience after the recent 2022 foods.

Staff went above and beyond to assist vulnerable clients. They continued to provide essential services with all pitching in where needed to assist clients in a time of uncertainty. Notably, the Residential Aged

Care (RAC) Facility collaborated closely with the team, offering support like welfare checks on clients without power, and standby assistance for home care clients. Not to mention the wider community caring for clients within the facility by coming to fll sandbags and assist with placing these to protect against the proposed extreme weather event.

One client, Robert Collins, who lives near the river in Casino, needed to be relocated to the Home Care offce. His furry companion,

Tessie, stayed in the offce with support from Southern Cross care St Michael’s staff and regular check-ins from the team throughout the event providing a comfortable bed and meals. Robert has expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the team to make him feel supported during this event.

Throughout the week, the entire team worked tirelessly, contacting clients to ensure their safety despite power outages and severe weather.

The collaboration between Home Care and Residential teams, and the wider community with a strong response and support from Head Offce highlighted the community spirit of SCC and our commitment to our HEART values, ensuring our clients’ needs were met during the cyclone. Despite the uncertainty and severe weather, the team provided unwavering support for our vulnerable clients.

Labor candidate for Page announced

SAMANTHA ELLEY

A new face for Labor has entered the world of federal politics with SES volunteer Wendy Backhous stepping up to take over the candidature for the electorate of Page in this year’s election.

Wendy is a former health worker, mother of two and grandmother of three and is ready to challenge sitting member, Kevin Hogan in what has become a safe seat for the Nationals over the past few elections.

“I am proud to stand as the Labor candidate for Page in 2025,” said Wendy.

“I care deeply about our community and want to make a difference for the families who live and work here with longterm practical solutions like more affordable medicines and childcare, more housing, solar power, Medicare bulk billing, higher wages, tax cuts, and better education.”

Wendy said her 30-year career in regional and remote health means she is dedicated to affordable health care and community services in regional communities, including better education for our kids.

She also said she will work hard to protect up to 1,000 vital federal public service jobs in Page that she said are under threat if a Dutton government is elected, along with the critical services that the public sector provides for our region.

An SES volunteer in Corindi-Woogoolga, Wendy understands the impacts of disasters in our region and wants to work to build resilience and help plan for more

regularly occurring natural disasters like storms, foods, and bushfres in our communities.

Federal member for Page, Kevin Hogan, when asked about the announcement said he always welcomes the challenge.

“We live in a wonderful democracy,” he said.

“I look forward to the election, I’ve been very grateful to have this job for a while now.

“I very humbly put my hand up again and if my community elect me to represent them again, I will do it to the best of my ability.

“I welcome all other candidates.”

Photo courtesy www. wendy4page.au website.

Maddogs are out to win more glory

This weekend promises to be a big one for local boxing champion Sunny “li’l dog” Mclean.

The Woodburn resident will be the main event in Sydney on Saturday night as he will be fghting Oskar Sinclair for the Global Australian lightweight title.

Sunny and fellow boxing team member, Max Wiggins, from Maddog Boxing at Meerschaumvale have been picked in the country representative boxing team to fght against the city rep team at the Arena sports club in Yagoona.

This event follows Sunny’s success in November when he won the gold medal for the Australian titles in

Gosford on the Central Coast.

Max will be fghting Henry Hung in the super middleweight division. We wish them all the best and look forward to positive results after the weekend.

MELISSA DICKSON

Melissa Dickson (Service Advisor) client Robert Collins & furry companion Tessie.

Sunny Mclean (right) with coach Scott Smith

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Funding Secured to Keep the Colours Alive: Tenterfeld Autumn Festival Receives $15,000 Boost

JEFF GIBBS

One of the region’s most beloved seasonal celebrations, the Tenterfeld Autumn Festival, has received a major boost ahead of its ffth annual event, with $15,000 in NSW Government funding secured by State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn.

The funding will go directly towards ensuring the continued success of the festival, which is scheduled to run across the Easter long weekend from Friday 18 April to Monday 21 April 2025.

Ms Saffn thanked NSW Premier Chris Minns for stepping in with timely support for what she described as a “signature community event” that celebrates the town’s dazzling autumn hues and rich heritage.

“Autumn Festival Committee President Kim Rhodes and Treasurer Bronwyn Petrie reached out to me earlier this year with concerns about the growing diffculty in securing sponsorship, largely due to the costof-living pressures many businesses are facing,” Ms Saffn said.

“I know how deeply the Autumn Festival resonates with locals and visitors alike — not only as a cultural celebration, but as an essential driver of the visitor economy during Easter and the autumn season.”

Drawing thousands of attendees each year, the festival features a vibrant program of familyfriendly events, colourful displays, and community activities — including the much-loved CBD window displays and hay bale trail, which remain in place throughout the season.

The newly secured funding will ensure that Tenterfeld continues to shine during the autumn months, showcasing its scenic beauty and its status as the Birthplace of Federation.

Festival organisers expressed their gratitude, noting how important this support is for maintaining the event’s momentum.

“We were extremely grateful to the Premier and to Janelle for advocating on our behalf,” said Mrs Rhodes and Mrs Petrie.

“This funding allows us to continue building on the success of previous years and offer another unforgettable festival.”

Adding to the excitement, Destination NSW recently recognised Tenterfeld Shire as one of the best places in the state to experience the magic of autumn, further cementing the festival’s place on the regional tourism calendar.

To fnd out more about the 2025 Tenterfeld Autumn Festival, including the full program of events, visit: tenterfeld autumnfestival.com.au

Tenterfeld in Autumn by Sera J Wright

Lismore Flood Management Set for Major Boost with New Fibre Optic Network

A $1.3 million investment in Lismore’s food management infrastructure is about to begin, with work commencing on a new fbre optic network that will signifcantly enhance the city’s food resilience.

Jointly funded by the Albanese Government and administered by the NSW Government, the project will see the installation of a 10-kilometre fbre optic cable linking the Browns Creek, Gasworks Creek, Magellan Street, and Lower Hollingworth Creek pump stations to Lismore City Council’s central control system.

The new network will allow Council to remotely monitor, operate, and manage the city’s pump stations— improving response times and reducing the risk of future food impacts.

This upgrade forms

part of the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP), a $150 million initiative by the Australian Government delivered through the NSW Government to fund food mitigation and resilience projects across the seven local government areas affected by the February–March 2022 foods.

The fbre optic installation complements a broader portfolio of works being led by Lismore City Council’s Flood Restoration Portfolio. These include:

• Capacity upgrades to the Browns Creek Pump Station

• A new electric pump at Magellan Street Pumping Station

• Mechanical trash racks at Browns Creek Inlet, Gasworks Creek, and Lower Hollingworth Creek to protect infrastructure from

debris

In total, six major food pump station and drainage improvement projects—worth $31.27 million—are being delivered in partnership between Lismore City Council and the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

NSW Minister for Recovery and Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffn, said:

“This is what real action looks like when it comes to building better infrastructure to ensure our community is safer, better prepared, and more resilient in the face of future fooding events. This upgrade is a very welcome investment in Lismore’s future.”

Lismore Mayor, Steve Kreig, added:

“As one of the frst major projects under our Flood Restoration Portfolio Resilience Program, this initiative marks a signifcant step

forward in our food preparedness.

The recent ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred showed us just how vital automated systems can be. While our crews did an outstanding job, technology like this will make us safer and more responsive.”

NSW Reconstruction Authority CEO, Mal Lanyon, said:

“We’re proud to support councils like Lismore through the NRRRP. As seen during ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, technology plays a critical role in modern food management. This upgrade will not only transform how Council operates during emergencies but also enhance worker safety and community resilience.”

For more information on the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program, visit: nema. gov.au

IN BRIEF – Tender Opens for Sewage Treatment Plant Design in Richmond Valley

Richmond Valley Council has launched a tender process for the detailed design of a new state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant (STP) in Casino, aiming to future-proof the region’s wastewater infrastructure. The project forms part of a broader strategy to support anticipated residential and commercial growth while delivering improved environmental outcomes.

General Manager Vaughan Macdonald highlighted the STP’s role in enabling regional development, particularly with the Richmond Valley identifed as a key growth zone under initiatives like the Regional Housing Fund and the Resilient Lands program. Plans include up to 1,500 new homes in the food-resilient area of Fairy Hill, alongside the Richmond Valley Regional Job Precinct Master Plan to drive industrial and economic expansion.

The region’s existing infrastructure is aging rapidly, prompting a critical need for more than $100 million in upgrades over the next fve years—including the replacement of the Casino STP and enhancements to Evans Head’s plant and water security.

Council seeks proposals from experienced engineering and design frms to deliver an innovative, scalable, and environmentally sustainable STP design. Key requirements include integration of advanced wastewater technologies, energy effciency, food resilience, and compliance with environmental regulations.

The tender process is now open, with details available via Richmond Valley Council’s website. This project represents a vital investment in the region’s infrastructure, growth, and environmental stewardship.

Taking care of drinking water catchments, managing targeted weed programs, and maintaining rural food infrastructure now and into the future.

To learn more visit rous.nsw.gov.au

WE’RE WORKING BEHIND THE SCENES

Kyogle to Shine on Screen in New Supercheap Auto Advertising Campaign

The streets of Kyogle are set to become the backdrop for a major national advertising campaign, with Supercheap Auto confrming plans to flm its latest commercial in the Northern Rivers town this May.

Filming will take place over a four-day window between Thursday 22 May and Tuesday 27 May, with scenes captured throughout the town centre and surrounding areas. While some temporary road closures will be necessary to facilitate the shoot, the production team is working in close partnership with Kyogle Council to minimise disruption to the local community.

This marks the second time the automotive

retail giant has chosen Kyogle as a location, following a successful campaign flmed in the region back in 2018.

Boosting Local Business and Putting Kyogle on the Map Kyogle Mayor Danielle Mulholland welcomed the return of the production, citing the benefts to the town’s economy and its growing reputation as a flmfriendly destination.

experience working with Kyogle Council to produce our previous campaign. So, when we were scouting for a location for this year’s production, Kyogle’s picture-perfect streets and amazing buildings made it the ideal choice.”

Additionally, the production team is keen to collaborate with local car clubs and enthusiasts to source unique vehicles for the shoot.

“We are aiming to promote Kyogle as a flm-friendly location, so when a large, national company like Supercheap Auto chooses our town for a huge commercial shoot, it sends a positive message to the wider production industry,” Cr Mulholland said.

The project is being produced by TAXI Film, one of Australia’s leading production companies,

and is expected to bring more than 100 cast and crew to Kyogle, offering a welcome boost to local accommodation providers, cafes, restaurants, and other small businesses. Why Kyogle? PicturePerfect Streets and Warm Local Support Reece Moger, Content Manager at Supercheap Auto, said the decision to return was an easy one.

“We had such a great

The town’s mix of heritage architecture and welcoming attitude to flm productions has helped position it as an emerging favourite among location scouts.

Opportunities for Local Involvement

As part of the production, locals are being invited to participate as background extras, with casting currently underway.

Community members who are interested can submit a photo, brief description, name, age, and contact details to: production@taxiflm.tv

For general enquiries related to the production, residents can reach out via: shoot@taxiflm.tv Lights, Camera, Kyogle!

This exciting opportunity places Kyogle frmly in the national spotlight and demonstrates the town’s growing appeal as a creative and commercial flming destination.

Residents can look forward to seeing familiar landmarks featured in a high-profle campaign—while also enjoying the buzz and business that a major production brings to town.

Stay tuned for Supercheap Auto’s new commercial when it hits screens later this

Democracy on the Move: NSW Parliament’s Regional Roadshow Inspires Grafton’s Youth

Grafton played host to a powerful celebration of youth leadership and civic engagement this week as the NSW Parliament’s Regional Roadshow rolled into town, bringing with it a unique opportunity for local students to step into the spotlight of democracy.

As one of just six regional centres chosen for the 2025 outreach initiative, Grafton welcomed representatives from the NSW Legislative Council — the Upper House of State Parliament — for a day of student-led discussion, debate and leadership development.

Young Leaders Take the Mic

The day featured two standout events: a Public Speaking Competition for senior high school students and a Youth Forum, where young people from across the Clarence region came together to discuss key issues impacting their communities.

Participating schools nominated outstanding students to take part, giving them the chance to demonstrate their public speaking abilities and engage directly in policy conversations that matter to them.

“This is about more than speeches — it’s about giving young people a real voice,” said President of the Legislative Council, the Hon. Ben Franklin MLC.

“Investing in our regional youth is investing in the future

of our democracy. The Regional Roadshow empowers tomorrow’s leaders by giving them the platforms and networks they need to advocate for their communities.”

A Statewide Initiative with Local Impact

The NSW Parliamentary Regional Roadshow was frst launched in 2024, during the bicentenary of the Legislative Council. It aims to connect students in rural and regional NSW with the

parliamentary process, helping bridge the gap between decision-makers in Sydney and the voices of young people in the regions.

Last year’s Roadshow made stops in Lismore, Port Macquarie, Armidale, Bathurst, Wagga Wagga and Batemans Bay — and the response was overwhelmingly positive, with young people seizing the opportunity to have their say and build their confdence as community leaders.

This year, Grafton proudly joined that list.

Championing Regional Youth Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, said the event was a valuable way to ensure regional youth feel included in shaping the future of their state.

“Young people in regional areas deserve the same opportunities to engage with Parliament as their city counterparts,” Mr Williamson said.

“The roadshow is a

fantastic opportunity for young people across the region to have their voices heard, develop their leadership skills, and actively participate in democracy.”

“Our future leaders are right here in our communities, and this is an important way to connect them with the decision-making process and show them that their ideas and perspectives truly matter.”

What’s Next?

Following its Grafton stop, the Regional Roadshow will continue its tour of NSW, heading to Queanbeyan, Tamworth, Griffth, Cessnock, and Orange in the coming months.

By opening the doors of Parliament to the next generation — and bringing the process to their doorstep — the Regional Roadshow is building a stronger, more inclusive democracy that represents all corners of New South Wales.

For more information on the NSW Parliament’s education programs and outreach initiatives, visit: www.parliament.nsw. gov.au.

JEFF GIBBS

JEFF GIBBS

Standing for Page A Voice from Casino, for the People

Jennifer Baker (pictured right) grew up in Casino and is proud to be standing for the seat of Page as a candidate for the Australian Citizens Party (ACP) — a party committed to raising the living standards of all Australians through bold, nation-building policies.

The ACP is driven by the belief that Australia must take back control of its economic and national sovereignty, and return government to the people. Our platform prioritises infrastructure development, quality education, accessible healthcare, and scientifc and cultural advancement — all underpinned by a strong, sovereign economic foundation.

A Truly Independent Australia

We stand for an independent foreign policy — one that refects Australia’s national interest, not subservience to the USA or UK. It’s time for Australia to act as a confdent, sovereign nation on the world stage.

Aussie Post Bank: Banking That Works for Australians

A centrepiece of our platform is the creation of a publicly owned Aussie Post Bank. This bank will:

• Provide full-service, low-cost banking for all Australians — individuals, businesses and communities.

• Guarantee 100% deposit security and access to cash nationwide.

• Support local, state

and federal infrastructure investment by allowing governments to borrow from Australians, ending our dependence on foreign lenders.

• Break the monopoly of the Big Four banks, which are closing branches, debanking lawful businesses, restricting credit, and reducing cash access.

The Aussie Post Bank will also deliver longterm, low-interest credit to:

• Australian manufacturing and agriculture

• Support family farms through seasonal and market volatility

• Fund a National Housing Authority to address Australia’s housing crisis

A Plan for Sovereignty, Fairness and Growth

As your representative, I will fght for policies that prioritise the prosperity of Australians, including:

• Restore parliamentary control over the Reserve Bank of Australia, ensuring its primary duty remains promoting “the wealth and prosperity of the people of Australia.”

• Abolish and replace ASIC with a regulatory body that truly protects consumers and the integrity of our markets.

• Ban corporate

Diary of a food survivor

The Reconstruction Authority (RA) is a strange beast.

Is it a necessary evil to partially justify the state government’s existence and give the appearance of looking like it is doing something to help food survivors but just providing false hope?

Or is it like a duck, by all appearances calm above the water, while furiously paddling his webbed feet, as it moves glacially across the pond?

donations to reclaim democracy — only voters should be allowed to donate.

• Rebuild public trust by putting genuine service back into the public service.

• Deliver justice to fnancial victims and protect whistleblowers — because transparency is essential to a functioning democracy.

• Expand Australia’s public healthcare system, including more training places for doctors and nurses, especially in regional areas.

• Return to stateowned electricity — restoring reliability and affordability to our energy system.

• Secure Australia’s fuel and food supply to protect our future.

This election is our opportunity to build a better future, grounded in economic independence, fair opportunity, and lasting infrastructure. I’m proud to stand for the people of Page, to give our region a strong, honest voice in Parliament.

Let’s keep Australia ours.

To learn more about the Australian Citizens Party, visit: citizensparty.org.

au

huge at the same time.

My application for the retroft stream of support was met with an email the other day, where it advised me our house was still under assessment.

What really broke the straw on this camel’s back, however, wasn’t that it has taken three years to be told the same thing each time I’ve had contact with the RA; it was something as simple and yet as complex as the email not being signed with anyone’s name.

In the great scheme of things, that is such a minor detail and yet

For the past three years we have lived in substandard housing, some of us still in caravans or pods because of an event that we are not to be blamed for and this last email couldn’t even give me the courtesy of a human name.

I didn’t ask for the government to provide funding for a retroft. It was offered.

At the time I received the email I felt like a child who has been offered a chupa chup but it is kept just out of reach, although still frustratingly on offer.

Mind you, I now couldn’t see the person holding the lollypop because they haven’t given me their name. Suffce to say, the email I wrote back to them (at least it

wasn’t a Do Not Reply address) was full of the frustration I felt and, yes, I make a living with words, so I think I got my message across.

To RA’s credit, I was phoned a couple of days later by the lovely Sarah who has now given me her contact details so that I can at least see and speak with the person who is offering me the chupa chup.

One thing I was told by RA was I could start my own renovations, ensuring the builder used food mitigating materials and keep the receipts.

While we don’t have the money to do the whole downstairs, we are concentrating on one room at a time with the builder starting last week.

Little steps

Samantha’s Book

60 Years of Culinary Excellence: 2025 Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award Launches with $38,000 Prize Pool

What lies behind closed doors?

Title: The Housemaid’s Secret

Author: Freida McFadden

Price: $14,99

Distributor: Booktopia

By Samantha Elley

Who doesn’t love a good mystery?

When Millie loses her cleaning and babysitting job because she is too good at it, she knows she has to fnd something else and quickly to cover her exorbitant rent and living costs.

However, with Millie’s past that isn’t going to be easy.

Once prospective clients fnd out what lies beyond her resume, she knows she has no hope.

Millie gets lucky when she meets Douglas Garrick who owns a stunning penthouse in the city. He wants her to clean

and cook and not check in on Mrs Garrick who hasn’t been feeling well lately.

When Millie hears crying in the bedroom, she just has to check on Mrs Garrick to see if all is well.

When blood starts showing up on the night gown and there is screaming behind the doors, Millie can’t help but interfere.

But not all is as it seems.

This is the second book in The Housemaid series and I will defnitely be going back to check out the frst and continue with the others.

Freida McFadden is a prolifc writer having penned over 40 books, including a few series.

Born in New York, McFadden attended Harvard University as an undergraduate and practices medicine in the Boston area. You can get a copy of The Housemaid’s Secret on booktopia. com.au

The prestigious Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award (NGCHA) has offcially entries for its landmark 60th anniversary, celebrating six decades of shaping the careers of young culinary professionals across Australia and New Zealand.

Launched in 1965, NGCHA is Australia’s longest-running culinary competition, open to apprentice and junior chefs aged 16 to 24. This year’s competition continues its legacy of offering emerging chefs not just a platform to compete, but to grow—through mentorship, networking, and the opportunity to gain invaluable industry experience.

In 2025, the competition will offer a record $38,000 in prizes, including a major award: a 14-day international culinary experience in Singapore and Thailand valued at $12,000 AUD. Entry is free, with applicants encouraged to register before 11:59pm AEST on 16 May 2025. More than 150 young chefs are expected to compete in regional and metro heats across Australia and New Zealand in June and July, with the top 12 fnalists advancing to the Grand Final at Fine Food Australia in Sydney

this September. The fnal cook-off will determine who is crowned Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year, announced at the Industry Awards Dinner.

This year, in addition to the major title, fnalists will vie for seven prestigious category awards, including Most Sustainable Practice,

international awards, and open their own restaurants.

Kristina Czepl, General Manager of Nestlé Professional, said the milestone year refects the company’s dedication to supporting culinary talent and industry sustainability.

“Sixty years of the

Most Creative Use of Nestlé Products, and Best Dessert Dish. A brand-new accolade— the Best Signature Dish Award—will debut in 2025, celebrating individual fair and cultural diversity.

Honouring a Culinary Legacy

Over the past 60 years, NGCHA has helped launch the careers of more than 8,000 chefs, many of whom have gone on to work in renowned global kitchens, win

Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award represents our unwavering commitment to nurturing young chefs. We’re incredibly proud of the impact this competition has had and excited to see how the next generation will shape the future of foodservice,” Ms Czepl said.

Former fnalist and acclaimed chef Jake Kellie, now owner of Adelaide’s Arkhé restaurant, said the competition was a pivotal experience in his

career.

“It’s a unique platform that helps young chefs grow, network, and showcase their skills. The experience and industry insights I gained were game-changing,” Kellie said.

Industry Collaboration and Support

The competition is run in partnership with the Australian Culinary Federation (ACF) and NZChefs, with ACF President Karen Doyle praising its far-reaching impact.

“The Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award is more than just a contest. It nurtures talent, boosts confdence, and offers life-changing opportunities for young chefs,” she said.

Nestlé Professional will continue its partnerships with The Burnt Chef Project, promoting mental health and wellbeing in hospitality, and the National Indigenous Culinary Institute (NICI) to support emerging Indigenous chefs through mentoring and training.

New sponsors for 2025 include Robot-Coupe and Cargo Crew, joining returning partners Rare Medium (MLA Foodservice), Koi Knives, Solidteknics, and Nestlé brands Buondi, Maggi, Buitoni, and Docello.

For more details or to enter, visit: goldenchefs. com.au

ROBERT HEYWARD

Photos courtesy of Nestle

Photos courtesy of Nestle

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

“YEP” –THINGS ‘DO’ TEND TO CHANGE!

Crikey! ‘Mum-Jane’ is a trillion miles away. I gave her a brisk biff and asked what she was daydreaming about? Well, THAT snapped her out of her reverie & back to reality WHICH was my intention ‘cos I’m a tad hungry. ‘Leems, do NOT biff me again – gottit? A soft paw-pat is suffcient when you want my attention.’ Hmmm! I slunk off & sat staring starvatingly & sadly at my empty bowl; 2 mins later it was replenished. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

(It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ here!) ‘OK Leems, I’ll tell you what I was in thought about’ (OMG, do I REALLY want to hear this? As my next is treat due in 2 ½ hours I fgured it best to play safe and give her my fakey adoring, purry undivided attention!) ‘Well Leems, I was thinking about 2 memorable songs from LONG ago. One was a song called ‘The Times They are A Changing’ from 1964; I was 14; the other was a song called ‘Things Have Changed’ from 2000; I was 50; both are songs by Bob Dylan Leems, who is, in my view, one of the best singer/songwriters of MY time.

(I WON’T tell Mum, but me & The Buddies reckon he sounds like he has a rusty wire sponge stuck in his nose.) ‘Oh Mum, how jolly fascinating; DO

tell me more.’ (She looked overjoyed at my interest. (I suspect I have a LONG dreary diatribe ahead! Aaaargh!)

‘Leems, Dylan is visionary in that he wrote lyrics about the one constant in our lives – CHANGE! (I fell asleep with cat boredom so she biffed ME!) ‘OK Leems, tell me about changes in your cat life & how you adapt to them as they take place”. Hmmm, PONDER!

‘OK Mum, I overcome change like when YOU serve me new treats without due notice; I simply refuse to eat them. I overcome change when you are negligent in doing my ‘3 per day furball prevention brush sessions’ by simply spitting the fur balls on a rug. I overcome change when my best plush blue blankie is in the wash. I simply sleep on the freshly ironed stuff in our linen closet & shed much fur. AND, I meet change head-on when you brush me too briskly. I simply bite & claw you. See, I’m right on top of all this change stuff… no sweat, easy peasy, and “I” don’t need to write songs (or do a dance) about it ‘cos it just HAPPENS Mum, so we just deal with it WHEN it confronts us..GOTTIT? Could we NOW move on to perhaps talking about something of interest like Dinosaurs?’ She fell into my crafty plot! ‘AND LEEMS, look what happened to THEM?’ ‘YEP, I know Mum. If I’D been around then I reckon I could have given them a few tips about CHANGE ‘cos living with you means I face it every day! (a brisk purrsy nitey on my VERY brisk escape out the door.) Leemo

Tweed Shire Council Seeks Community Feedback on Kings Forest Sports Precinct Plan

extended play hours

Tweed Shire Council is inviting community feedback on its Depot Road Sports Precinct Master Plan, a bold 10year vision to transform an 8-hectare site at Kings Forest into a premier sport and recreation hub for the growing Northern Rivers region. Now on public exhibition until 7 May 2025, the draft plan outlines a wide range of proposed facilities aimed at addressing the current and future needs of local residents, with a strong focus on accessibility, youth engagement, and environmental integration. The master plan includes:

• Two AFL-standard ovals (one full-sized for senior competition, one for juniors and regional use)

• Multi-use rectangular felds for touch football and Oztag

• Multi-purpose hard courts suitable for netball and pickleball

• A modern clubhouse with amenities, storage, and spectator viewing areas

• Sports lighting for

• A dedicated youth precinct, featuring potential elements such as a pump track, skate park, wild play area, and parkour zone

• Pedestrian and cycling paths, creating an active travel network

• Car parking and designated drop-off zones

• A fenced off-leash dog area

• Environmental buffer zones to manage stormwater and protect nearby wetlands

Mayor Chris Cherry said the precinct was critical to meeting the needs of a fast-growing population.

“With Kingscliff and surrounding suburbs set for signifcant growth, this project will deliver much-needed open space and high-quality sporting infrastructure for our residents,” she said.

The master plan supports the Tweed Shire’s Sport and Active Recreation Strategy 2023–2033, and addresses rising demand for local sports facilities, particularly in fast-growing codes.

“Participation in AFL alone has jumped by 63% since 2019,

and demand for touch football and Oztag is also on the rise,” said Murray Smith, Council’s Manager of Parks and Active Communities.

“This precinct will not only meet those needs, but also deliver modern, inclusive spaces for all ages to stay active and

main feld

• Sports lighting for the main feld

• Stage 1 of a clubhouse

• Car parking infrastructure

• Multi-use and pickleball courts

• Initial landscaping Construction is

connected.”

Council has already secured $6.23 million in funding for the initial phase, including:

• $4.73 million from the NSW Government’s Accelerated Infrastructure Fund

• $1.5 million from Tweed Shire Council’s Developer Contributions

These funds will help deliver:

• Detailed design

• Construction of the

expected to begin in 2026, subject to planning approvals. Additional features, including the youth precinct and secondary oval, will be delivered in future stages as funding becomes available.

Residents are encouraged to view the draft master plan and provide their feedback by visiting: www.yoursaytweed. com.au/depot-road

Birds eye view of Depot Road Sports Precinct looking north across the main oval with the clubhouse and hard courts in the background.

Eye line view of Depot Road Sports Precinct looking south across the car park with the main feld to the left and club house in the background.

ROBERT HEYWARD

IMAGES OF UKI

Seventeen years and still going strong

IMAGES OF UKI

will be exhibiting the works of 48 artists in the Uki Hall over the Easter weekend. Works include paintings, prints, drawings, collages, sculptures and photographs.

This important event began in 2008. The frst show exhibited only views of Uki, but this idea was quickly dropped in favour of a broader theme which changes every year.

It did not take long before Images attracted so many artists that there wasn’t room to hang all the works. The mission

of Images is to showcase the rich local artistic talent and that no-one should be rejected. So in order to keep it nonselective, the organisers restricted entries to those people living in the 2484 postcode.

One of the highlights of Images introduced some years ago is the People’s Choice Award. The award enables visitors to become more involved with the art. People look much more closely at the artworks when they are being asked to decide which piece they like most.

This year the winning

artist of the People’s Choice Award will receive a stunning set of wind chimes from Uki’s The Tinker’s Cuss. The winner will be announced at the end of the exhibition on Easter Monday at 2pm.

The opening of Images of Uki is always a big event on the village calendar. As usual, everyone is welcome.

This year’s opening is at 6pm on Easter Friday at the Uki Hall. There will be music performed by the acoustic guitarist Glenn Brace, food, a wine bar and, of course, great art.

There will be music on Easter Saturday and Sunday as well. Tomylee Billings will perform on Saturday and Nick Clow on Sunday.

This important event is only made possible by the enthusiasm of local helpers and the generosity of sponsors.

Images of Uki is on from Easter Friday to Easter Sunday 9am-4pm and Easter Monday 9am2pm at the Uki Hall.

Elijah’s Lucky Streak: Big Catches from the Banks of the Richmond River!

NRTIMES TEAM

Nine-year-old Elijah Robertson is proving to be quite the young angler, reeling in not one, but two great catches this week from the banks of the Richmond River, east of Wardell — and all just days after a major fsh kill in the area.

On Thursday, 4 April at 4pm, Elijah landed a split-tailed catfsh measuring at least 420mm, using a piece of steak for bait. The fsh put up a good fght, but Elijah held his own, bringing it in with a big grin and a well-earned sense of pride.

Not stopping there, Elijah was back at it again on Sunday, 6 April, this time baiting with a prawn and catching a

solid 250mm bream in the exact same spot. The back-to-back success shows real promise — and is also a hopeful sign that the Richmond River ecosystem is bouncing back after last week’s devastating fsh kill. With patience, persistence and a little help from his bait box, Elijah is showing us that the future of fshing is in good hands. Well done, Elijah — keep those lines tight and the stories coming!

Managing depth.........by Nigel Dawe

IN the most watershed of ways, the frst phrase I ever remember committing to memory was a glistening slingshot of a line from a set text in high school called Maestro, by the Australian author Peter Goldsworthy. Masterfully and deceptively summarising of life across the board, Goldsworthy wove: “Every fsh has its depth,” into his beautiful tale of a childhood both spent, and misspent in the Top End.

As seemingly ‘bumper sticker’ simple as it reads, the moral and logic that underpins this sentiment is as profound in its implications, as it is applicable in each of our daily affairs; as such, it has never failed to guide and orientate me when diffculties, albeit differences have arisen in my personal sphere. Relatedly, the iridescent fsh of American thought, Ralph Waldo Emerson once wittily suggested, “There is no bottom, merely the handicap of depths.”

The differences in perception, or perhaps the differences in the breadth and depth of our comprehensions, and how no two people ‘see’ or understand things in the same way, is something that has always fascinated me.

An Irish proverb I came across many years ago captured the essence of this ‘given’, by saying: “If only every tree in a forest grew to the same height.” Which poses a promise, if not the broadest potential for a greater understanding, were each of us ‘coming from the same place’.

Contrary to how elevated ‘depth’ both seems and is referred to at times, there is something about the simple, or the everyday, which begs for

Regional Youth Week 2025 to Spark Creativity, Community and Connection Across NSW

alignment in some way. Anything or anyone that goes too deep arguably becomes lost and given up on; dismissed for being merely pretentious or too high-fa-luting. As if somehow reconciling both the metaphorical and literal rift that lies at the very heart of this topic, the Austrian novelist Hugo von Hofmannsthal once chimed, “Depth must be hidden. Where? On the surface.”

Which is an observation very akin to one made by the French Nobel Prize-winning author Henri Bergson, who once discerned, “Let us then go down into our own inner selves: the deeper the point we touch, the stronger will be the thrust which sends us back to the surface.”

This being a lovely, albeit brotherly way of saying – always make sure you return to the surface, because that’s where the life-sustaining oxygen and sunlight are best shared. No one can withstand extremes (for too long) without being irreparably altered in some way.

That is not to say we should ever ‘dumb things down’, or feel that we ought to wade in shallows so as to never threaten or exclude others. With the right intent: that being to not consciously shame or embarrass anyone, through what we might think or know – we should endeavour to ever live our lives in accord with what we subsequently think and know. Or as Gwendoline Christie once suggested, “The beauty of existence is that we get past the superfcialities and material world and hopefully move into –lord – hopefully a bit of depth.”

Young people across New South Wales are gearing up for a week of celebration, creativity, and connection as NSW Youth Week kicks off from Wednesday 9 April to Thursday 17 April 2025. With this year’s theme, “I am ______. We are the future, and the future is now!”, the spotlight will be frmly on the state’s youth –celebrating their unique strengths and collective voice as future leaders, creators, and changemakers.

The NSW Offce for Regional Youth is backing an exciting calendar of free events across regional areas, aimed at empowering young people through music, art, sport, and community engagement. Creative Showcases and Community Spirit in Casino

One of the fagship events of the week will take place in Casino, where Flavour Fest is set to bring the town to life from 5pm to 8pm on Friday 11 April. Hosted in collaboration with the Offce for Regional Youth and Richmond Valley Council, the event promises a festive evening of live music, great food, local entrepreneurship and

community participation. A major highlight will be the Battle of the Bands, giving young local musicians the chance to perform live and showcase their talents to the wider community. The competition will provide a valuable platform for young artists to explore their musical ambitions and gain experience performing in front of a live audience.

Flavour Fest aims to foster connection not only among youth, but between generations –creating a vibrant and inclusive space that celebrates young voices and creative expression. For more information, visit the Richmond Valley Council website. Goonellabah Skate Jam – Action on Wheels and Amplifying Youth Voice Further north in Goonellabah, the Skate Jam promises an afternoon of highenergy fun and positive engagement from 2pm to 5pm on Saturday 12 April. Hosted by Lismore City Council and the Lismore Youth Network, this event will take place at the upgraded Goonellabah Skate Park, a facility that has become a popular hub for local youth.

The event will feature skate demonstrations, live music, and a community sausage sizzle, all designed to provide a welcoming and relaxed environment where young people can gather, express themselves, and connect with local services and each other.

In addition to fun and entertainment, the Skate Jam will offer opportunities for young people to share their ideas and concerns, with local representatives on hand to listen and support youth-led initiatives in the community. More details are available via the Lismore City Council website.

Statewide Celebrations in Regional Towns Beyond Casino and Goonellabah, regional towns across the state will also host Youth Week events tailored to local interests. Activities include games, art workshops, colour runs, and information sessions in areas such as Coomealla, Goulburn, Crookwell, Albion Park, Queanbeyan, Maclean, and Salamander Bay.

NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s Director for Regional

Youth, Julia Ryan, encouraged all young people to participate and make their voices heard.

“NSW Youth Week is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate young people and highlight the important contributions they make to their communities,” she said.

“Each event has been designed and planned in collaboration with local schools and organisations to refect the interests and needs of local young people. These are events created by young people, for young people.”

Inspiring the Leaders of Tomorrow

NSW Youth Week provides a platform for young people to express themselves, connect with peers, and engage with the broader community in meaningful ways. Whether it’s through art, music, sport, or open discussion, these events reaffrm the role of youth as essential contributors to the present and future of regional communities. To discover more about events happening near you, visit: www.nsw.gov. au/YouthWeek or check your local council’s website.

Ultimate Guide to Travelling Monaco

Monaco—glamorous, glittering, and perched perfectly on the Mediterranean—is one of the world’s most exclusive destinations. But this small principality offers more than just luxury yachts and casinos. With smart planning, it can be surprisingly accessible to travellers of all budgets. In this guide, we’ll explore the top places to visit, how to fnd the best deals, where to stay (from luxury to budget), travel tips, and currency & cost considerations— plus everything you need to make the most of your visit.

Top Places to Visit in Monaco

1. Monte Carlo Casino

A world-famous icon of wealth and grandeur. You don’t need to gamble to enjoy the stunning Belle Époque architecture.

Tours are available during the day, and dress codes apply after 2pm.

2. Prince’s Palace of Monaco

Explore the opulent State Apartments and witness the Changing of the Guard at 11:55am daily. The palace sits atop Le Rocher (The Rock) in the Old Town, offering sweeping views of the harbour.

3. Monaco Old Town (Monaco-Ville)

Wander narrow medieval lanes, visit Saint Nicholas Cathedral (Princess Grace’s resting place), and enjoy traditional Monegasque eateries.

4. Oceanographic Museum

Perched above the sea, this impressive museum houses marine life exhibits, aquariums, and maritime artefacts— fascinating for all ages.

5. Port Hercule

Stroll past superyachts and sip coffee at harbourside cafés.

A must-see during the Monaco Grand Prix, when the streets transform into a worldfamous race track.

6. Japanese Garden

A peaceful retreat with koi ponds, waterfalls, and meticulously landscaped features, right in the heart of Monte Carlo.

Best Deals & How to Save Money

Despite its luxury reputation, Monaco can be explored affordably with the right strategies:

• Stay in neighbouring towns like Beausoleil, Menton, or Nice, which are cheaper and just minutes away by train or bus.

• Walk or use local buses (¤1.50 per ride).

The entire country is walkable in under an

Accommodation: Luxury & Budget Options

Luxury Options

• Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo – An institution of prestige next to the casino, offering Michelin-starred dining and impeccable service.

• Fairmont Monte Carlo – A resort-style stay with rooftop pool, sea views, and prime access to the Grand Prix route.

• Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort – Offers luxury with resort vibes, including a sandy-bottom lagoon and spa.

Mid-Range Options

• Novotel Monte Carlo – Modern, comfortable, centrally located with reasonable rates.

• Hotel Port Palace – Overlooks Port Hercule with luxury touches at a more accessible price.

Budget Options (Nearby)

• Hotel Forum (Beausoleil) – Just over the border with walking access to Monaco. Affordable, clean, and includes breakfast.

• Ibis Styles Menton Centre – Budget-friendly and charming, just a short train ride away.

• Hostels in Nice – Great for backpackers and budget travellers looking to combine Monaco with the French

Nightly Prices:

hour.

• Picnic instead of dining out. Supermarkets like Spar or Carrefour offer fresh food for picnics on the beach or in gardens.

• Visit free attractions like the Saint Martin Gardens, Old Town, and Larvotto Beach.

• If visiting multiple museums, check for combo tickets or tourist passes.

Travel Tips for Visiting Monaco

• Fly into Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, then take a 30-minute train or 45-minute bus to Monaco.

• Currency: Monaco uses the Euro (¤).

• Language: French is the offcial language, but English is widely spoken.

• Dress smartly— especially if visiting the casino or fne dining

Airbnb Options

Starting at approximately $32 AUD before taxes and fees.

Expect to see prices ranging from around $175 to $539 per night.

Some listings, like a stunning 3-bedroom fat overlooking the port, can cost upwards of $1325 per night.

Property Types:

You’ll fnd a variety of properties, including entire rental units, apartments, and studios. Some properties are family-friendly and pet-friendly.

A few properties even feature pools.

Specifc Listings:

A 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre can be found for around $539 per night.

A 3-bedroom fat overlooking the port and F1 race track can cost $1325 per night.

Additional Information:

There are approximately 710 properties listed on Airbnb in Monte Carlo, Monaco.

spots.

• Travel light. Monaco’s cobbled streets and hilly terrain make luggage hauling a chore.

• Book early during big events like the Grand Prix (May) or Yacht Show (September), when prices soar and rooms fll fast.

Conclusion Monaco is more than a luxury playground—it’s a fascinating blend of history, glamour,

nature, and charm. From its elegant streets and palaces to peaceful gardens and budgetfriendly beach days, it offers a unique travel experience packed into just over 2 square kilometres. Whether you’re sipping champagne at the casino or enjoying a picnic on the harbour, Monaco delivers a memorable escape—and with the right planning, it doesn’t have to break the bank.

budget for

• Mid-range: ¤150–¤250

• Luxury: ¤500 and up

Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available. Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for excellent service (5–10%).

JEFF GIBBS

• Daily

budget travellers: ¤60–¤100 (if staying outside Monaco)

Riviera.

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

Mark your calendars for the Sydney Royal Easter Show, returning from 11 to 22

April 2025 at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park. This iconic event offers a rich blend of agricultural

ALL FILMS

A Minecraft Movie (PG)

Daily except Fri: 10:15AM, 12:30PM, 2:45PM, 5:00PM, 7:15PM. Fri: 12:30PM, 2:45PM, 5:00PM, 7:15PM

A Working Man (MA15+)

Daily except Sat, Sun: 5:00PM

André Rieu’s 75th Birthday Celebration(CTC) Sat, Sun: 1:00PM

Death of a Unicorn (MA15+) NFT

Daily except Sat, Sun: 2:45PM, 7:30PM. Sat: 5:00PM, 7:20PM. Sun: 4:50PM, 7:20PM

Disney’s Snow White (PG)

Daily except Sat, Sun:

2:10PM

Dog Man (G) Thurs, Mon, Tues, Wed: 10:00AM, 12:00PM. Fri: 12:00PM. Sat: 10:00AM. Sun: 10:00AM, 2:20PM

Fantasia (G) –Matinee Memories Sat: 2:10PM

Novocaine No Pain (MA15+) Daily: 4:30PM

The Amateur (M) NFT Daily except Sat, Sun: 12:15PM, 7:00PM. Sat, Sun: 10:30AM, 7:00PM

The King of Kings (PG) NFT Thurs, Mon, Tues, Wed: 10:00AM. Sat: 12:00PM. Sun: 12:10PM

showcases, thrilling entertainment, delectable food, and family-friendly activities.

Ticket Information

Tickets are available exclusively online through the offcial Sydney Royal Easter Show website. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended to secure your preferred dates. Special promotions, such as the 2UE Seniors’ Day Ticket on 14 April 2025, offer discounted entry for seniors at $25.00.

Getting There

Your event ticket includes travel on public transport services to and from the Show between 11 and 22 April 2025. This includes Sydney Trains, NSW TrainLink Intercity services, Sydney Metro, and more. Plan your journey using the Trip Planner available at transportnsw. info.

Attractions and Activities

The 2025 Show introduces exciting new attractions:

• Sydney Royal Medal Winners’ Area: Sample award-winning produce, including fresh fsh, salmon, caviar, and enjoy wine and distillery tastings.

• New Rides: Thrillseekers can experience

the Sky Flyer XXL, soaring 60 meters into the sky, while younger attendees will enjoy the Helter Skelter.

• Sheep Shearing Demonstrations: Witness professional shearers showcasing their skills and gain insights into this traditional practice. Culinary Delights Food enthusiasts will be delighted by a diverse range of culinary options:

• The Stables: Open daily from 10am to 9pm, offering a variety of gourmet foods.

• Tucker Box: Serving classic Australian fare from 10am to 9pm.

• The Truck Stop: A collection of food trucks offering diverse cuisines from 9am to 9pm.

Showbags

A visit to the Show isn’t complete without exploring the Showbag Pavilion, open daily from 9:30am to 9:30pm. With a vast selection ranging from confectionery to toys and lifestyle products, there’s something for everyone. Prices start as low as $6.00, making them an affordable memento of your visit.

Plan Your Visit

To make the most of your day, utilize the Inspiring Itineraries provided by the Show organizers. Whether you’re an animal lover, foodie, or seeking family-friendly activities, these guides help tailor your experience.

Facilities and

Accessibility

The Show ensures a comfortable experience with amenities such as ATMs, self-service lockers, and free Wi-Fi zones located throughout the venue. For detailed information on facilities, visit the offcial website.

Conclusion

The Sydney Royal Easter Show 2025 promises an unforgettable experience, blending tradition with new and exciting attractions. Whether you’re attending for the thrilling rides, educational exhibits, or delicious food, there’s something for everyone. Secure your tickets, plan your journey, and prepare for a day of fun and discovery at one of Australia’s most beloved events.

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 Which popular board game contains cities, roads, cloisters and fields?

(a) Ticket to Ride (b) The Settlers of Catan (c) Sunda to Sahul (d) Carcassonne

2 The Living Room was the first play written by which person?

(a) Anton Chekhov

(b) Graham Greene (c) Samuel Beckett

(d) Oscar Wilde

3 In the TV series, Star Trek: Enterprise, who is the captain of the Enterprise NX-01? (a) Michael Burnham

(b) Benjamin Sisko

(c) James T. Kirk (d) Jonathan Archer

4 How many stars appear on the flag of Turkey?

(a) Zero (b) One (c) Five (d) Six

5 Hibernation is an extended form of which state?

(a) Hematophagous (b) Torpor (c) Echolocation (d) Patagium

6 The Great Belt Bridge and tunnel link the eastern and western parts of which country? (a) Denmark (b) Egypt (c) Djibouti (d) Netherlands

PUZZLES

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 CUTIS

(a) One who makes or sells knives

(b) An attendant on a knight

(c) The skin

2 HUCKSTER

(a) The hip

(b) A tomboy

(c) A hawker or pedlar

3 PILULE

(a) A heavy javelin used by Roman foot soldiers

(b) A little pill

(c) A hair

4 SPARTAN

(a) Simple and hardy

(b) Thinly scattered

(c) Glittering

5 USUFRUCT

(a) The use and profit of a thing

(b) The acquisition of property by long possession

(c) One’s habitual abode

BEST ON THE BOX

SUNDAY

MOVIE: THE EQUALIZER 3

SEVEN, 8.30pm, MA15+ (2023)

Where do retired assassins settle down after a lifetime of taking out the bad-guy trash? Sicily, of course, even though it’s sprawling with, you guessed it, the Ma a. This is where the merciless vigilante Robert McCall (Denzel Washington, pictured) nds himself after giving up his life as a hired gun for the government. He discovers his friends are under the control of local crime bosses, and as events turn deadly, McCall decides to ght back against the criminals, with help of CIA agent Emma Collins (Dakota Fanning). Despite its unrelenting violence, there is catharsis to be had in this nal instalment of Antoine Fuqua’s action-thriller trilogy, as McCall delivers his unique brand of implacable retribution one last time.

FRIDAY, April 11

TUESDAY

SWINGERS: HOW TO WIN AN ELECTION

ABC TV, 9pm

The date is set, bulk bread and sausage orders are in, and tiny pencils are being sharpened: it’s time for a federal election. But before Australians head to the polls on May 3, ABC analyst Casey Briggs (pictured) is here to chart the lay of the land, taking a particularly close look at the people who will decide the result of the election: swing voters. Australians have less party loyalty than ever before, which means that these voters, along with their “soft” counterparts (those who have an idea of where their vote will go but aren’t rmly decided), hold the power. In this new, cheekily titled series, Briggs travels the country to nd out who our nation’s “swingers” are, and what they make of the 2025 campaigns.

THURSDAY THE SECRET DNA OF US

SBS, 7.30pm

For many, DNA testing is an exciting novelty that can reveal hidden origins – where your ancestors lived 1000 years ago or perhaps uncovering a royal relative. But for some, it’s a surprising

secrets kept from them for decades or more – tales of a airs, adoptions and long-lost relatives abound. In this world- rst series, Marc Fennell, Rae Johnston (pictured) and ancestry expert Brad Argent o er mass DNA testing to residents of four Australian towns, unveiling wild hidden pasts, unexpected ethnicities and extraordinary family mysteries. Starting in Bairnsdale, Victoria, and making their way to Geelong, before heading to Surry Hills and Bathurst in New South Wales, the trio unlock history – one chapter at

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

6.00 News. 9.00 ABC News Mornings.

10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 The Paci c. (R) 11.00 ANZAC Battle elds. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Unforgotten. (Mal, R) 2.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 3.00 Back Roads. (PG, R) 3.30 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.35 Gardening Australia. Hannah Moloney visits Bruny Island. 8.35 Sherwood. (Return, Mdlv)

The shocking murder of Nicky Branson threatens to reignite historic turf wars that plagued Nottingham of old.

9.35 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R) A satirical news program.

10.05 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

10.35 Fresh Blood: Urvi Went To An All Girls’ School. (Mls, R)

11.05 ABC Late News.

11.25 Father Brown. (PGav, R)

12.10 Mayfair Witches. (Mal, R)

12.55 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 WorldWatch. 8.00 DD India News Hour. 9.10 Curious Traveller. (R) 10.10 Matched. (PG, R) 11.00 Hidden Beauty Of Spain. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Queen’s Guard: A Year In Service. (Ml, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.00 Mesopotamia 3D. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 The Mystery Of The Nazca Lines. (PG, R) 8.40 Bettany Hughes’ Lost Worlds: Nabataeans. (PG) Bettany Hughes arrives in Petra.

9.40 Scotland’s Scenic Railways. (R)

10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 A Body That Works. (Mls) 12.05 Romulus. (MA15+av, R)

2.05 Agent Hamilton. (Mav, R)

3.45 Inside The Modelling Agency. (PGln, R)

4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.40 Mecha Builders. 3.55 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.25 Builder Brothers Dream Factory. 5.20 Kangaroo Beach. 5.50 Paddington. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs.

12.10pm France 24 English News. 12.40 The Nine Lives Of. 1.35 Hypothetical. 2.30 The Artist’s View.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Nikki And Nora: Sister Sleuths. (2022, PGav) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The Love Gala. (2023, PGa, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R)

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

7.30 Football. AFL. Round 5. Collingwood v Sydney.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the game.

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

11.45 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Mav, R)

An armoured truck heist is carried out.

12.45 The Black Donnellys. (Premiere, Mdsv) Four working-class brothers get involved with crime.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today. News and current a airs.

7TWO (62)

History’s Crazy Rich Ancients. 6.05 If You Are The One. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Secrets Of Polygamy. 10.10 Adam Looking For Eve. 11.50 Pose. 2.55am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am

Weekender. 3.00 DVine Living. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Better Homes. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Bargain Hunt. 12.30am DVine Living. 1.00 Late Programs.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 6. Brisbane Broncos v Sydney Roosters. From Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Brisbane Broncos versus Sydney Roosters match, with NRL news and analysis.

10.45 MOVIE: War. (2007, MA15+lsv, R) An FBI agent seeks vengeance on a mysterious assassin known as Rogue who murdered his partner. Jet Li, Jason Statham.

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

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

(82)

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

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

7.30 Airborne: Nature In Our Skies: In Flight Meals. (PGa) Takes a look at the quest for food, the fundamental need that unites all species across the planet.

8.40 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Graham Norton is joined on the couch by Demi Moore, Lady Gaga, Colin Farrell, Richard Ayoade, Jack Savoretti and Miles Kane. 11.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather.

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

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

Men. Noon American Resto. 12.30

9GO! (83) 6am Goal! 2: Living The Dream. Continued. (2007, PG) 7.10 Shin Ultraman. (2022, PG, Japanese) 9.15 Malcolm. (1986, PG) 10.50 This Is Spinal Tap. (1984, M) 12.20pm Logan’s Run. (1976, M) 2.30 The Movie Show. 3.05 Goal! (2005, PG) 5.15 A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG) 7.30 The Client. (1994, M) 9.45 The Secrets We Keep. (2020, MA15+) 11.35 The House Of Snails. (2021, MA15+, Spanish) 1.35am Evil Does Not Exist. (2023, M, Japanese) 3.35

6am Children’s Programs. 8.00

Wars. 1.00 American Pickers. 2.00 Pawn Stars. 2.30 Desert Collectors. 3.30 Timbersports. 4.00 Mountain Men. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. 7.30 Highway Cops. 8.30 MOVIE: Love Again. (2023, M) 10.50 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Rules

The Nanny. 9.00 Bewitched. 9.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 10.00 Seinfeld. 11.00 Project Impossible. Noon MOVIE: Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed. (2004, PG) 2.00 The Golden Girls. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 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: Journey 2: The Mysterious Island. (2012, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: Bad Neighbours 2. (2016, MA15+) 11.20 The O.C. 12.20am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Motor Racing. 2024 Sunraysia Safari. Replay. 10.00 Blokesworld. 10.30 Billy The Exterminator. 11.00

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

O I N

D C E

E

B E

Today’s target: 8 words average 12 words good 16+ 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)

Mercury and Venus go direct, and the Full Moon lights up your partnership zone, so focus maximum attention on the special loved ones in your life. It’s also time to get the balance right between invigorating independence and cosy togetherness. Your motto for the week is from Aries writer and activist Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Are you stuck in a Taurean rut? Have you been too stubborn to embrace change? This week’s Full Moon shakes up your daily routine zone, plus Mercury and Venus (your patron planet) both turn direct in your peer group and networking zones. So use it as an opportunity to open your mind, extend your connections and expand your world. The weekend favours get-togethers with family, friends and/or work colleagues as you socialise, enjoy and explore.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

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

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Caring Crabs are the natural nurturers of the zodiac but looking after loved ones won’t be easy this week, as you juggle your busy personal and professional lives. The Full Moon falls in your domestic zone, so it’s a good time to clean and declutter your living space, then you can enjoy entertaining family and/or close friends on the weekend. Some lucky Crabs will travel somewhere special – to a much-loved destination with good food and beautiful surroundings.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

The Full Moon fires up your tempestuous nature, so you’ll feel amped up and ready to perform! But don’t let overconfidence (and over-exuberance) trip you up. Your head’s full of ambitious dreams and fabulous schemes, but they’ll only work if you can persuade other people to contribute to Team Leo. You’ll find creative collaboration (especially with people within your local community) will take you a lot further than functioning as a solo operator.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Thank goodness Mercury and Venus turn direct in your partnership zone! You’ll find the more diplomatic, caring and compassionate you are, the better your personal and professional relationships will be. The weekend Full Moon stimulates your self-esteem and money zones. So – if you want to do well financially – spending sprees are out, and serious saving is in. It’s also an appropriate time to reflect on your personal values and reassess your priorities.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

With a Full Moon in your sign, you’re keen to motivate, encourage and inspire others. Plus, Mercury and Venus turn direct, so you’ll be able to utilise your well-developed diplomatic skills. Librans are the fashionistas of the zodiac, so it’s up to you to lead the way towards a more sustainable future. Wisdom for the week comes from fashion designer/innovator (and birthday great) Vivienne Westwood: “Buy less, choose well, make it last.”

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

The Full Moon favours meditation, contemplation, relaxation and investigation as you solve a problem or get to the bottom of a perplexing mystery. However, if you stubbornly hang onto the past and resist change, you’re in for an unpredictable relationship ride. You need to be more flexible and adapt to constantly changing circumstances. Heed the wise words of Scorpio actor and social commentator Will Rogers: “Chaotic action is preferable to orderly inaction.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Mercury and Venus move forward in your home zone (on Monday and Sunday, respectively) so a family squabble or a domestic drama should start to settle down. With the Sun shining in your leisure-and-pleasure zone, it’s time to plan a party, book a massage, attend a concert, see an exhibition or organise a night at the movies. Plus, the Full Moon fires up your hopes-and-wishes zone, so do all you can to make a special dream come true.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

The Capricorn buzz word for the week is Communication (with a capital ‘C’), as Mercury and Venus move forward in your neighborhood and conversation zones. Expect increased social interaction and educational activities within your community. When it comes to an ongoing neighborhood problem, think global and act local. Wisdom for the week is from fashion designer (and birthday great) Vivienne Westwood: “The sexiest people are thinkers.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

This week you’ll communicate your innovative ideas with extra pizazz, dream mind-blowing dreams, talk about progressive philosophies or make connections with bohemian folk from foreign shores. But, with the Full Moon activating your wanderlust zone, many restless Aquarians will feel cooped up, housebound and a bit stir-crazy. So pull on your travelling shoes and escape on a wild weekend getaway or plan an adventurous trip for sometime soon.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

The Full Moon highlights a close relationship, shared finances or a joint venture. Secrets and issues of loyalty could also be placed under the microscope, as you discover whether your trust in someone has been well-placed. And prepare for a welcome burst of Piscean creativity and energy as Mercury and Venus finally move forward in your sign. Lucky opportunities could magically manifest, especially within your local community or via social media.

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

German Cinema Returns to Northern Rivers with the 2025 HSBC German Film Festival

The 2025 HSBC German Film Festival, presented by Palace in partnership with German Films, is set to captivate Northern Rivers audiences from 8 May to 28 May, with screenings at Palace Byron Bay and Ballina Fair Cinemas. Celebrating the depth and diversity of contemporary German cinema, this year’s program brings together critically acclaimed dramas, timely documentaries, uplifting comedies, and heartwarming family flms, many fresh from the prestigious 2025 Berlinale.

Special Presentations: Powerful and Provocative

Among this year’s most anticipated highlights is RIEFENSTAHL, a compelling new documentary from acclaimed flmmaker

Andres Veiel. Offering unprecedented access to the private estate of 20th-century flmmaker Leni Riefenstahl, Veiel delves into her complex legacy, shaped by her globally infamous Nazi propaganda flm Triumph of the Will. Through

rich archival footage and a critical lens, RIEFENSTAHL revisits questions of complicity, artistic genius, and historical responsibility. Another standout is TWO TO ONE (Zwei zu eins), led by the ever-popular Sandra Hüller, alongside Ronald Zehrfeld, Peter Kurth, and Max Riemelt. Based on real-life events from 1990, this comedy follows a group of East Germans who stage a clever heist during the economic chaos following reunifcation, all in an attempt to cash in on soon-tobe-worthless East German currency. Equal parts entertaining and heartfelt, it’s a feelgood flm with a sharp historical edge.

Festival Centrepiece: HYSTERIA

Making its Australian premiere directly from Berlinale, Mehmet Akif Büyüktalay’s HYSTERIA is the Festival’s Centrepiece flm. This psychological thriller explores themes of surveillance, paranoia, and social perception through the eyes of a young intern, played

by rising star Devrim Lingnau, who fnds herself entangled in a dangerously escalating game of deception and suspicion. It’s a smart, tense examination of how images and narratives shape modern lives.

Award-Winning

Drama: DYING

Renowned director Matthias Glasner returns with DYING, a deeply moving and darkly humorous family drama. Featuring a powerhouse performance by Lars

Eidinger as a troubled orchestra conductor juggling personal and professional chaos, the flm blends tragedy and wit with poignant insight. Set between Berlin and Hamburg, it’s an unfinching yet deeply human story that has already resonated with international audiences.

Family Favourites: Kino for Kids

Presented by the Goethe-Institut Australia, this year’s ‘Kino for Kids’ sidebar features a delightful selection

of flms for young audiences and families.

• WINNERS (Sieger Sein), winner of the 2024 German Film Award for Best Children’s Film, follows Mona, an eleven-year-old Syrian refugee whose life changes after her football skills are discovered. This uplifting story champions friendship, determination, and the power of sport.

• CIRCUSBOY (Zirkuskind) offers a magical glimpse into the nomadic life of the Frank circus family. Through the eyes of eleven-year-old Santino, audiences experience a unique childhood among animals, tradition, and wonder.

• THE CHAOS SISTERS AND PENGUIN PAUL is a fun-flled adaptation of the bestselling children’s book, where four lively sisters team up to rescue a kidnapped dancing penguin from the local zoo. Expect laughs, teamwork, and a little bit of mischief.

• THE DOOR-TODOOR BOOKSTORE (Der Buchspazierer) rounds out the familyfriendly selections with

a heartfelt tale based on Carsten Henn’s beloved novel. Inspired by a real bookstore in Aachen, this is a love letter to books, readers, and the simple joys of human connection.

Tickets & Full Program

The full program and ticket sales for the 2025 HSBC German Film Festival will be released in early April. With sessions running across Palace Byron Bay and Ballina Fair Cinemas, Northern Rivers audiences will have plenty of opportunity to experience the very best of German storytelling on screen. Don’t miss this celebration of culture, creativity, and worldclass cinema. For session times, program announcements and ticket sales, visit: germanflmfestival.com. au Facebook: @ GermanFilmFest Instagram: @ germanflmfestival

From riveting thrillers to heartfelt comedies and family favourites, the 2025 HSBC German Film Festival is not to be missed.

Australian renters now need an annual income of $130,000 to afford the average national rent, as the rental affordability crisis spreads beyond low-income earners.

Even those on six-fgure salaries are struggling to meet housing costs, with rent exceeding 30% of income in many capital cities and regional areas.

The fndings come from the 2025 Priced Out report by national housing campaign Everybody’s Home, which highlights how skyrocketing rents are impacting middle and high-income Australians like never before.

The Growing Financial Strain on Renters

The report found that a single person must earn at least $130,000 per year to comfortably afford the median national unit rent. In major cities, the required income is even higher, pushing rental stress beyond low-income earners and into middleclass households.

Rental stress is defned as spending more than 30% of income on housing costs.

People earning $70,000 per year—slightly below the national median salary of $72,592—are among those hardest hit, with many forced to spend more than half of their income on rent.

Even Australians earning $100,000 per year—once considered a fnancially secure salary—are struggling to keep up with rising rental prices in key locations.

The Broader Impact on Australians

The rental crisis is no longer just a problem for

Rental Affordability Crisis Hits SixFigure Earners as Housing Costs Soar

• Delaying homeownership due to lack of affordability

• Relocating away from jobs, family, and

middle incomes are left behind,” Azize said. Without urgent action, more Australians will be priced out of safe,

pressure.

The fndings of the 2025 Priced Out report make one thing clear: Without urgent

Percentage of a $100,000 Salary Spent on Rent in Key Locations

intervention, rental stress will continue to grow, leaving more Australians struggling to fnd a place to call home.

lower-income earners—it is affecting professionals, essential workers, and middle-income families who are being priced out of their communities.

Everybody’s Home spokesperson Maiy Azize described the fndings as a wake-up call:

“This report exposes the stark reality facing Australian renters. A $100,000 salary used to be considered a secure income, but our research shows people on this wage are struggling in both cities and regional areas.”

The situation is even worse for lower-income earners, with those making $40,000 per year facing extreme fnancial distress. In some areas, rent can be as high as 119% of their income, making stable housing almost impossible to afford.

The crisis is forcing Australians to make tough life decisions, including:

support networks

• Cutting back on essential expenses to cover rent

• Facing increased fnancial stress and instability What Needs to Change? Calls for Government Action With an election approaching, housing advocates are urging the Federal Government to make rental affordability a national priority.

Everybody’s Home is calling for:

1. A massive increase in social housing investment – Low-cost rental homes for Australians in severe housing stress.

2. An overhaul of investor tax incentives –Ending negative gearing and capital gains tax discounts, which infate property prices and beneft investors over renters.

“It is unfair to spend billions of dollars propping up investors while people on low and

affordable housing, further deepening the crisis.

Conclusion: A Rental Market in Crisis

The rental affordability crisis is no longer just an issue for the low-income population—it now affects middle-income professionals, families, and essential workers. With housing costs continuing to outpace wage growth, even those earning six-fgure salaries are feeling the

11 Gillett Street, South Grafton

AUCTION - 30th April 2025, 6pm at GDSC

4 Beds 1 Baths 2 Cars

Flood free location in quiet street Double lock up garage 574m2 (approx ) corner block Spacious back deck

JEFF GIBBS

Lismore’s ‘Local Legends’ Campaign Celebrates Resilient Business Community

JEFF GIBBS

Lismore City Council has offcially launched its new ‘Local Legends’ campaign, celebrating the resilience, creativity, and community spirit of the businesses that make Lismore a truly unique destination.

Following the challenges posed by Tropical Cyclone Alfred, Lismore’s business community has shown remarkable determination to move forward—and this campaign aims to spotlight those efforts and inspire both locals

and visitors to lend their support.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said the campaign honours the people behind the businesses that help keep the region thriving.

“This campaign is all about shining a spotlight on the local businesses that truly are the backbone of our community,” Mayor Krieg said.

“Whether it’s grabbing a coffee, browsing local stores, booking a service or planning a day trip—every action helps keep Lismore’s business community strong.”

Karen Hirst, Lismore

City Council’s Destination Coordinator, echoed the call to support and explore.

“Lismore is home to an incredible mix of businesses—from boutique shops and artisan cafés to galleries and event hosts.

These businesses are the heartbeat of our community,” she said.

“Our hotels are welcoming guests, our

venues are buzzing, and our calendar is flling with fantastic events. Now is the perfect time to rediscover the beauty of our region and get behind our local legends.”

The ‘Local Legends’ campaign will feature visually rich content and storytelling that showcases Lismore’s standout businesses and experiences. It will be

promoted across social media, targeting regional and interstate audiences to encourage tourism and local engagement.

The campaign comes at a critical time for the region, offering both recognition for the efforts of local entrepreneurs and a rallying call to support the city’s economic recovery.

From historic

shopfronts and local artisans to farm-to-table dining and family-run services, Lismore’s legendary locals are open and ready to welcome you.

For more information, upcoming events, and ideas for your next visit, head to www. visitlismore.com.au or follow Visit Lismore on Facebook and Instagram

ACMA Welcomes $1.5 Million Penalty in Landmark Telemarketing Case

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has welcomed a decision by the Federal Court of Australia imposing $1.5 million in penalties on V Marketing Australia Pty Ltd (in liquidation) over breaches of telemarketing laws.

In a judgment delivered on 31 March 2025, the court found that V Marketing had made over 1.1 million telemarketing calls to numbers listed on the Do Not Call Register during 2017 and 2018, in direct contravention of the Do Not Call Register Act 2006. The court also ordered Mr Michael Vazquez, the sole director of V Marketing, to personally pay a $60,000 penalty.

The case, initiated by the ACMA in April 2019, centred on V Marketing’s role in making calls on behalf of solar energy company Balaska Pty Ltd (Balaska), and later for its own business,

Your Choice Solar.

The Do Not Call Register, which currently protects more than 12.6 million Australian phone numbers, is a key consumer safeguard, allowing individuals to opt out of unsolicited telemarketing calls.

The court found that between 1 March and 30 September 2017, V Marketing made 553,630 unlawful calls on behalf of Balaska. A further 548,688 calls were made between 1 February and 27 September 2018 promoting its own solar company, Your Choice Solar.

While the court declared that Balaska had contravened the Act by

engaging V Marketing to make the frst round of calls, it did not impose a fnancial penalty on the company.

In his judgment,

Justice Logan strongly criticised V Marketing’s lack of compliance culture. He noted that despite being repeatedly warned by ACMA

through compliance alerts—forwarded via Balaska—V Marketing failed to adjust its practices.

“There was no culture of compliance within V Marketing,” Justice Logan stated, adding that a signifcant penalty was required to ensure such conduct was “more than just a cost of doing business.”

He further emphasised that companies cannot avoid legal responsibility by outsourcing telemarketing activities, stating that ‘contracting out’ does not eliminate

liability for breaches of the law.

The ACMA said the ruling underscores the importance of strong enforcement in protecting consumers from unwanted marketing and affrmed that solar telemarketing was a particular focus during the period due to high levels of public concern.

For further details on the ACMA’s spam and telemarketing compliance approach, and to view recent enforcement actions, visit: www.acma.gov.au

Pictured right: Josh Giudice from Planet Music and Sarah Hobson from Little Polli and the Blackbird

JEFF GIBBS

2025 RAM 2500 and 3500: Heavy-Duty Haulers Headed

Performance

Two engine options

headline the 2025 lineup:

The updated 2025 RAM 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty pickup trucks are set to land in Australia by the end of the year, promising increased performance, rugged capability, and modernised styling to meet the demands of serious towing and hauling. With sharper exterior updates and robust engine options, RAM aims to reinforce its position in the Australian heavy-duty ute segment.

Refreshed Exterior

Styling

The latest RAM 2500 and 3500 models feature a redesigned front end with a more aggressive grille and a sleek new split headlight setup, improving both airfow and aesthetics. The rear also receives a contemporary refresh with C-clamp LED taillights. These styling changes elevate the visual appeal while enhancing cooling effciency for the hardworking powertrains. Powertrains and

• 6.4-litre HEMI V8 petrol engine: Producing 302kW (405hp) and 582Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission. This engine is aimed at buyers who want reliable, everyday usability with enough grunt for most towing needs.

• 6.7-litre Cummins turbo-diesel inline-six: For those needing serious pulling power, this high-output diesel generates 321kW (430hp) and a massive 1,457Nm of torque. This engine confguration, when ftted to the RAM 3500, enables up to 16,602kg of braked towing capacity and a payload of up to 2,745kg—numbers that put it at the top of its class.

These fgures make the RAM HD trucks suitable for hauling heavy trailers, machinery, and even large horse foats or caravans across long distances.

Cabin Comfort and Technology

Inside, the 2025 RAM 2500 and 3500 balance toughness with refnement. Premium trims include soft-touch materials, comfortable seating, and a logical layout suited for work and touring alike. The

8.4-inch touchscreen, offering intuitive access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle functions.

RAM also continues to enhance its safety offering, with driverassist features such as

infotainment system features RAM’s latest Uconnect 5 software displayed on an

adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and 360-degree camera

Honda and Nissan Explore Potential Merger Amid Industry Pressures

Japanese automotive giants **Honda Motor Co.** and **Nissan Motor Co.** are reportedly in early discussions over a possible **merger or strategic alliance**, according to sources close to the matter.

While neither company has confrmed formal negotiations, reports suggest that preliminary talks have been initiated as both manufacturers

face growing pressure from global market shifts, rising electric vehicle (EV) competition, and escalating development costs.

A merger between Honda and Nissan would create one of the world’s largest car manufacturers, potentially enabling both frms to better compete with global EV leaders such as Tesla, BYD, and the Volkswagen Group. The partnership could

offer shared research and development, combined manufacturing effciencies, and a stronger global footprint. Industry analysts say the move may be driven in part by the Japanese government’s encouragement for domestic automakers to consolidate and remain globally competitive in an increasingly electrifed market.

Honda is currently

pursuing independent EV strategies and AI-driven technologies, while Nissan has experience through its early EV venture, the Leaf, and a previous partnership with Renault and Mitsubishi. Whether this potential alliance leads to a fullscale merger or a looser collaboration remains to be seen.

More details are expected to emerge as talks progress.

systems, depending on the model grade.

Towing and Payload Capabilities (Metric)

• RAM 2500: Braked towing capacity of up to 9,072kg, with a maximum payload of 1,243kg, depending on confguration.

• RAM 3500: Braked towing capacity of up to 16,602kg, and a maximum payload of 2,745kg with the highoutput Cummins engine. These fgures give RAM a distinct advantage for commercial operations, heavy towing requirements, and owners with large trailers or ffth-wheel applications.

Australian Availability

RAM Trucks Australia is in the fnal stages of re-engineering these American-built trucks for local right-hand drive production at its facility in Melbourne. According to RAM Trucks Australia boss Jeff Barber, the refreshed 2500 and 3500 are expected to arrive before Christmas 2025.

Local pricing is yet to be confrmed, but

for Australia

buyers can expect it to be competitive with other heavy-duty utes in Australia’s upper market segment. The previousgeneration RAM 2500 models started around the $160,000 mark, and pricing for the updated version is likely to remain in that ballpark or slightly higher, depending on specifcation.

Final Verdict

The 2025 RAM 2500 and 3500 deliver serious heavy-duty capability wrapped in a sharper, more refned package. With outstanding towing and payload credentials, a suite of modern technology, and rugged good looks, these trucks are well-suited for tradies, farmers, caravaners, and anyone needing a vehicle that works as hard as they do. Whether you’re hauling gear across the country or just want a commanding presence on the road, RAM’s updated heavy-duty offerings look set to continue turning heads—and pulling serious weight— on Australian roads.

JEFF GIBBS

Max Crus is a Clarence Valley-based wine writer and Grape Expectations is now in its 30th year of publication. Find out more about Max or sign up for his weekly reviews and musings by visiting maxcrus.com.au

Labor’s largesse trumps Coalition confusion. Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Yoohoo! Albo has clearly read last week’s cost of living column, answered our collective cry for help and delivered a staggeringly generous $5 per week tax break in his election lure.

But wait, don’t spend it all at once lest it cause infation to rise, and Michelle will raise interest rates again.

Just kidding. $5 is the proverbial butterfy fapping its wings in China - or is it that if every butterfy in China jumped

Yalumba SA Organic Chardonnay 2022, $22. Looking for cheap, well made, reasonably interesting chardonnay?

You are the luckiest person alive. There are heaps, including this. Can’t go wrong for $22 can you?

Plus it’s organic and you only have to save up 3

off a chair at the same time, would the earth shift off its axis?

Everyone spending their extra fve bucks on a double shot small latte on the frst Monday after it lobs in their bank account wouldn’t change a thing, not the least because $5 isn’t enough for a double shot.

However, if you add that to your $150 power relief handout – which by the way, everyone gets, including Gina, Twiggy, and Albo himself - that’s

week’s political bonus to get one! 8.9/10.

Yalumba South Australia ‘Y Series’ ‘Lighter’ Shiraz, 2023, $13ish. Lighter refers to the alcohol, 8 per cent. Yoohoo, about the same as a good beer or cough medicine, neither of which you drink in the same

another $2.10 cents per week, just enough to get that extra shot and something to go with it… except there is nothing in a coffee shop that costs $1.60.

There is nothing in any shop that costs $1.60. You can’t even buy something from a $2 shop, obviously. Thanks Albo. Meanwhile, the “I can do anything better than you can”, approach of Dutton, we’ll get what he reckons is a match winning $14 per week saving from halving

quantity as this, although a cough medicine amount was enough for me. 8/10.

Yalumba South Australia ‘The Y Series’, Tempranillo 2022, $15. Not sure if this is aimed at Gen Y, or a reference to the ‘why not’ culture, but it is very clean, medium bodied and has ample red wine

the fuel tax. Except he forgets who really runs this country, along with Gina and Twigs, and the oil industry will raise the price of petrol accordingly and we’ll end up with about half that.

Furthermore, it’s telling voters who drive electric vehicles that they’re dreaming, a real slap in the face to those who thought they were Building Their Dream. Although serves others right for buying a Tesla.

This too from an

stuff going on, specially for this price. 9.1/10.

Yalumba South Australia Y Series Cuvee, NV, $13. “There’s a Y for every why”. But is this a bit like kung fu fghting?

Surely not everybody was?

Acceptable bubbles at an acceptable price . 8.9/10.

Yalumba South Australia

opposition who will spend $450m on a referendum to give a minister (read ‘and anyone else in the government’) the power to deport two people. The same mob who whinged that the indigenous voice referendum was a waste of money! What the? I’m as confused as they are.

Okay Albo’s knocked a cent off a pint of beer and given pittance to the wine industry by increasing the excise remittance cap, but not until next year.

Gosh. Not sure any of the

Y Series Pinot Noir 2024, $13. Given the price of bottles, labels, seals, and picking and fermenting the grapes, it’s a wonder you can make any wine for this price let alone a snobby pinot which is actually pretty good. Ideal quaffng lunchtime wine, if you’re allowed to. 8.8/10.

above will help with the looming darkness of the Trump tariffs, but surely when Dutton tells him where to go things will improve, just as they did after Scomo’s ‘diplomatic’ discourse with Xi Jinping…ooh, hang on!

Meanwhile here’s a few suggestions on how to spend your newfound wealth, wherever if comes from:

Yalumba South Australia Y Series Prosecco, NV, $13. We are blessed in Australia that there are a few family wineries that still make amazingly good stuff for amazingly low prices. Fun fare for a family alfresco frolic. 8.9/10.

Max Crus

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

From simple meals to show-stopping feasts, there’s something for everyone.

ONE-PAN WONDER:

Get ready to waltz your way into weeknight dinner stardom with this adventure-packed, one-pan creamy chicken tenders recipe. Not only is it gloriously simple, but it also comes with the added thrill of barely any washing up. That’s right—this dish is your culinary escape route from the Mount Doom of dirty dishes. Inspired by the geniuses at Taste. com.au, it’s creamy, comforting, and wildly applause-worthy.

INGREDIENTS THAT MAKE MAGIC:

• 700g chicken tenderloins (aka favour wands)

• 200g cherry tomatoes (tiny bursts of joy –optional, but why not?)

• 2 garlic cloves, fnely chopped (vampire repellant)

• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped (because

it’s always thyme for favour)

• 115g (½ cup) dried risoni (orzo, the rice impersonator)

• 375ml (1½ cups) chicken stock

• 250ml (1 cup) thickened cream (liquid luxury)

• 60g baby spinach (for your green halo)

• 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese (cheesy confetti)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

METHOD TO THE DELICIOUS MADNESS:

1. Sizzle the Chicken In a heroic frying pan, heat olive oil over medium-high. Gently place in your tenderloins—give them a royal sprinkle of salt and pepper—and let them golden-up for 3–4

minutes per side. Once they’re looking golden and proud, remove and set them aside like the champions they are.

2. Awaken the Aromatics

Toss garlic and thyme into the same pan. Sizzle them for 30 seconds and revel in the scent that says “I am a culinary wizard.”

3. Rally the Risoni Add the orzo/risoni and stir like you mean it. Pour in that glorious chicken stock and bring it to a bubbling boil. Then lower the heat and simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, until the pasta is soft and slightly smug about it.

4. Creamy Dreams

Begin

Pour in thickened cream like you’re narrating a romance novel. Stir in baby spinach and watch it wilt gracefully—like

ADULTS ONLY EASTER TRIFLE

Boozy Brownie Trife: The Dessert That Says, “I’m Fancy… and Slightly Tipsy”

Ready to impress your guests or treat yourself after a long week of “adulting”? This boozy brownie trife from BBC Good Food is rich, chocolatey, and decadently over the top. It’s what happens when brownies go to a cocktail party and don’t want to leave. Layers of fudgy brownie, boozy cherry compote, whipped cream, and silky custard make this dessert a total showstopper. Here’s how to whip up this indulgent crowd-pleaser — just don’t blame us if your guests never leave.

Ingredients (Serves 8–10)

For the Brownie Base:

• 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped

• 200g unsalted butter

• 250g light brown soft sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 100g plain four

For the Boozy Cherry Compote:

• 2 x 400g tins of pitted black cherries in syrup

• 100ml cherry brandy or Kirsch (or go wild with amaretto if you fancy)

• 2 tbsp cornfour

For the Layers:

• 500ml fresh vanilla custard (store-bought or homemade)

• 600ml double cream

• 1 tbsp icing sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Dark chocolate curls or grated chocolate (to garnish)

• A few extra cherries (for fair)

Method to the Madness

Step 1: Bake the Brownie

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Line a 20cm square tin with baking paper.

the heroine in Act 2.

5. Reunite the Cast

Place the chicken back into the pan, nestling it lovingly into the creamy mixture. Add your cherry tomatoes for colour, sweetness, and that whole “I eat vegetables” vibe. Let it all mingle for 3–4 minutes.

6. Say Cheese! Sprinkle with parmesan like you’re tossing fairy dust. Stir, taste, season as needed, and try not to swoon.

7. Devour Like a Legend Scoop onto plates. Serve with confdence. Accept compliments with humble nods (or dramatic bows).

CHEF’S QUIP: Why did the chicken join the band? Because it had the drumsticks—and it nailed the solo in this dish.

2. Melt the chocolate and butter together in a saucepan or microwave until smooth. Set aside to cool for a few minutes (so you don’t scramble the eggs like a rookie).

3. Stir in the sugar, then beat in the eggs one at a time.

4. Fold in the four until just combined, pour into the tin and bake for 25–30 minutes. Cool completely, then cut into bite-sized chunks. Try not to eat them all.

Step 2: Make the Boozy Cherry Compote

1. Drain one tin of cherries and pour all the syrup (from both tins) into a pan. Add the brandy and bring to a gentle simmer.

2. Mix the cornfour with a little cold water, stir into the cherry syrup and cook for a few minutes until thickened.

3. Stir in the cherries and remove from heat. Cool completely. (And yes, it smells incredible.)

Step 3: Whip It Good

1. Whip the cream with icing sugar and vanilla until you get soft, pillowy peaks.

Assembly (A.K.A. Dessert Architecture)

Now for the fun part — layering!

1. In a large glass trife bowl (because it deserves the spotlight), start with half the brownie pieces.

2. Spoon over half the cherry compote. Let those brownies soak up the boozy glory.

3. Pour on half the custard, then half the whipped cream. Smooth it out lovingly.

4. Repeat the layers: brownie, compote, custard, cream.

5. Top with a fourish of chocolate curls and a few cherries to make it look irresistible.

Chill, Serve, Repeat

Pop in the fridge for at least an hour before serving — or longer if you can resist. It’s even better the next day, so this one’s great for making ahead.

Final Thought:

This trife isn’t just dessert. It’s an experience. A slightly boozy, deeply chocolatey, joy-flled experience. Serve it up at a dinner party, take it to a family gathering, or just eat it with a spoon straight from the bowl — no judgment here. Enjoy the glory, one glorious spoonful at a time.

The Under-Recognised Chronic Childhood Disease Impacting Quality of Life

A timely diagnosis of juvenile arthritis (JA) could prevent thousands of Australian children from suffering lifelong disability, joint deformities, and even loss of vision, according to leading experts advocating for greater awareness and recognition of the disease.

Despite being one of the most common chronic childhood diseases, juvenile arthritis remains widely overlooked, even among healthcare professionals. This lack of awareness means that many children do not receive a diagnosis until irreversible joint or eye damage has already occurred.

Now, the GovernorGeneral, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, has stepped forward to help shine a light on JA by becoming Patron of the Juvenile Arthritis Foundation Australia (JAFA). She will also host families affected by JA at Government House in Canberra during this year’s Juvenile Arthritis Week (16-23 March).

“I have accepted patronage of JAFA to help shine a light on

juvenile arthritis. As Patron, I stand alongside these brave and resilient children and their families,” the GovernorGeneral said.

“I look forward to supporting JAFA as they raise greater awareness to promote earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.”

A Disease That Affects 30,000 Young Australians

Juvenile arthritis is an incurable infammatory autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints but can also impact the eyes, skin, muscles, and internal organs. In Australia, an estimated 30,000 children and young adults under 24 live with JA.

According to research:

• 80% of children with JA experience daily pain, often leading to longterm disability.

• 53% of children with JA develop mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.

• Children with JA miss an average of 12% of school time due to pain and treatment, affecting their learning and social development.

“JA places a heavy burden on not just the children affected, but also on their families, who face emotional distress, fnancial strain, and signifcant lifestyle

adjustments,” said JAFA founder Professor Ruth Colagiuri AM. The Urgent Need for Early Diagnosis

For many children, getting diagnosed is a long and frustrating process. With low awareness among healthcare professionals, families often go through multiple misdiagnoses before fnally receiving the correct treatment.

Alice Hill, mother of seven-year-old Charlie Walter, described her family’s diffcult journey:

“The road to diagnosis for Charlie was painfully slow. We desperately need more funding to train healthcare professionals in recognising the signs of JA and to increase the number of paediatric rheumatology teams available to treat children.”

“For Charlie, diagnosis transformed his quality of life. The ups and downs remain, but having specialist care means he now has a chance at a normal childhood. We hope future cases of juvenile arthritis are diagnosed much faster, so other children don’t have to suffer unnecessarily.”

Paediatric rheumatologist Dr Jeff Chaitow, Chair of JAFA’s

Medical and Scientifc Panel, reinforced the importance of early intervention:

“There are two key reasons why early diagnosis is essential. First, it reduces the child’s pain and suffering. Second, with advancements in treatment, early intervention can prevent long-term joint damage and signifcantly improve long-term health outcomes.”

JAFA’s Fight for Faster Diagnosis and Treatment

Currently, the average delay in diagnosing juvenile arthritis in Australia is 10 months.

JAFA’s federally funded early diagnosis program aims to reduce this to just 10 weeks, ensuring more children receive timely treatment.

“We must rescue these children from the misdiagnosis merry-goround and ensure they get onto treatment early,” said Professor Ruth Colagiuri AM.

“JAFA is working hard to support health professionals in recognising and referring juvenile arthritis cases sooner, giving children the best possible chance at a full and active life.”

The Juvenile Arthritis Foundation Australia has expressed deep gratitude to Governor-General Ms Sam Mostyn AC for using her platform to bring national attention to this overlooked childhood disease.

“We sincerely thank the Governor-General for her invaluable support in raising awareness of juvenile arthritis,” said Professor Colagiuri.

A Call for Greater Awareness and Support Juvenile arthritis is a severe yet underrecognised condition, affecting thousands of young Australians. Without early intervention, it can lead to permanent disability, chronic pain, and emotional distress.

JAFA is calling for:

• Greater awareness among healthcare professionals and the public.

• More funding to train doctors in early detection.

• Increased investment in paediatric rheumatology teams across Australia.

For more information on juvenile arthritis and how you can support JAFA’s mission, visit www.jafa.org.au.

JEFF GIBBS

e Northern Rivers Times April 10, 2025

CASINO

NORTHERN RIVERS LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE –PRIME CATTLE MARKET REPORT

WEDNESDAY, 2 APRIL 2025

The Prime Cattle sale held at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange on 2 April 2025 presented a strong and steady market across all major stock categories, with a total yarding of 1,473 head. This robust offering drew active buyer interest and resulted in a total turnover of $1,954,858.91, refecting continued demand in both domestic and feeder markets.

Light Cattle Sale (Sold Per Head)

A small offering of cattle sold per head included a limited number of Bobby Calves and Heifers. Two lots of Bobby Calves sold at a fat rate of $50.00 per head, indicating modest but consistent interest in light young stock. Two heifers also went under the hammer, ranging in price from $30.00 to $80.00 per head, with an average of $55.00. These sales contributed to a total value of $210.00 for the per-head segment. While small in volume, this section served its purpose for local buyers seeking light trade stock or home rearing options.

Prime and Heavy Cattle (Sold Per Kilogram)

In the per-kilogram sales, which comprised the bulk of the yarding, all key categories performed solidly, with strong averages and some standout top-end prices. Bullocks were represented by 51 lots comprising 20 head.

LISMORE

LISMORE CATTLE MARKET REPORT –SALE DATE: TUESDAY, 1 APRIL 2025

Report compiled by Glenn Weir

Total Yarded: 400 head

The Lismore Saleyards saw a solid yarding of 400 head this week, with strong buyer competition resulting in signifcant price increases across several categories. Heavy Cows

WARWICK

LIVESTOCK MARKET REPORT –WARWICK & DISTRICT WEEK ENDING 4 APRIL 2025

Weather conditions disrupt supply, prices hold strong across most categories

Unfavourable weather conditions made their presence felt at this week’s Warwick & District livestock sales, with widespread rainfall affecting both cattle and sheep yardings. Despite the logistical challenges brought on by fooding in western and northern regions, the cattle sale still managed to attract 1,412 head. Meanwhile, the sheep and lamb yarding was signifcantly reduced to 950 head, as consistent rainfall hampered transport and access in key sheep-producing areas.

Cattle Market – Strong Prices Despite Weather Constraints

Buyers met the reduced cattle numbers with strong demand, resulting in frm to stronger prices across most categories. The market showed confdence, with no panic buying noted in response to the ongoing food events. Highlights from the cattle sale included:

• Bulls averaged 294.1c/kg, peaking at 346.2c/kg, or $1400.23 to $2635.00.

• Cows averaged 276.2c/kg, reaching up to 319.2c/kg, or $1479.92 to $2610.00.

• Feeder heifers averaged 298.32c/kg, with a top price of 362.2c/kg, or $987.52 to $1566.90.

• Feeder steers achieved an average of 347.4c/kg, topping at 396.2c/kg, or $1226.63 to $2015.60.

• Heifers averaged 327.8c/kg, peaking at 362.2c/kg, or $1617.31 to $2418.13.

• Manufacturing steers averaged 266.8c/kg, topping at 298.2c/kg, or $926.26 to $1125.70.

• Heavy steers averaged 353.8c/kg, peaking at 375.2c/ kg, fetching $2327.03 to $3029.23.

Prices for this group ranged from 130.2 cents to a high of 368.2 cents per kilogram. The average price settled at 353.1 cents per kilogram, translating to returns between $592.41 and $2,835.14 per head. Bullocks contributed signifcantly to the overall sale value, with total earnings exceeding $109,000.

Bulls, covering 46 lots and 42 head, achieved an average price of 291.2 cents per kilogram, with a top of 310.0 cents. Per head, values ranged from $922.08 to $2,926.95, resulting in a category total just above $94,000. These results underline the steady demand for heavy bulls, both for slaughter and further feeding.

Cows dominated the sale in volume, with 689 lots across 236 head. Despite this large yarding, the market absorbed the offering with strength. Prices ranged from a low of 110.0 cents to a high of 340.2 cents per kilogram. The average settled at 299.1 cents, indicating strong processor demand. Individual cow values ranged from $435.73 to $2,170.45 per head. The total value of cow sales exceeded $1.05 million, making it the highest grossing category of the day.

Heifers, represented by 291 lots and 126 head, sold within a price range of 158.2 to 356.2 cents per kilogram. The average came in at 312.8 cents. Returns per head ranged from $245.21 to $1,983.58, bringing in a total of over $264,000. This performance refected solid interest from both feeder and processor buyers.

Steers were also well represented, with 380 lots and 134 head. This group recorded the highest price per kilogram across the sale at 454.2 cents. Average pricing reached

Heavy cows sold up to 40 cents per kilo dearer than previous sales, with most trading between $3.10 and $3.25/kg. The standout sale was from Wally Reeve, whose Angus cow topped the market at $3.29/kg, returning $2,106.

Medium and Light Cows

Medium cows saw price gains of 30 to 40 cents, fetching between $2.70 and $3.00/kg, while light cows also sold at improved rates, achieving between $2.10 and $2.50/kg. Yearlings

Good quality yearlings were in demand, with prices ranging from $3.70 to $4.16/kg. The top pen came from

• Vealer heifers averaged 292.7c/kg, topping at 332.2c/ kg, or $637.44 to $886.56.

• Vealer steers averaged 341.8c/kg, with a top of 400.2c/ kg, or $711.20 to $1033.09.

• Yearling heifers averaged 304.1c/kg, peaking at 358.2c/kg, or $953.03 to $1435.00.

• Yearling steers were strong at 359.9c/kg, topping at 404.2c/kg, or $1235.57 to $2094.19.

The overall average for the cattle yarding came in at $1375.42, with the top individual price reaching $3029.23. Sheep & Lambs – Reduced Yardings, Firm to Dearer Trends

Rainfall signifcantly curtailed sheep and lamb numbers, with just 950 head yarded. However, the reduced supply contributed to stronger prices, particularly for fnished lambs and mutton.

• Lambs topped at $215, averaging $149.28 – an increase of $33/head week-on-week.

• Hoggets reached $169, averaging $76.34 – down $4/ head.

• Ewes topped at $120, averaging $80.36 – up $20/head.

• Wethers peaked at $127, averaging $109.23 – up a notable $42/head.

• Ram lambs topped at $117, with an average of $90.42 – up $16/head.

• Rams reached $120, averaging $50.31 – down $16/ head.

The total average across all sheep and lamb categories was $130.03/head, a week-on-week gain of $35/head. Feature Sales

A number of standout sales were recorded during the sheep and lamb auctions:

• Eric Watts & Robyn Gimm sold 53.3kg Suffolk lambs to Take It Easy Meats for $215, and 42.5kg lambs and ram lambs to restockers for $109.

• Hurley & Weiss sold Dorper lambs between 50.7kg and 52.2kg for $202–$209, all to Take It Easy Meats, with ewes selling to Thomas Foods for $110.

381.5 cents, with per head values ranging from $213.57 up to an impressive $2,112.99. The steer category brought in over $420,000 in total, further affrming the strength of the heavier feeder and fnished steer market.

Vealer Bulls, although smaller in number (14 lots and 9 head), showed respectable returns. Prices ranged from 120.2 to 312.2 cents per kilogram, with per head values between $279.46 and $999.04. The total value of this group reached $7,879.52, suggesting ongoing demand for young vealer bulls.

Yearling Steers were limited to two lots, with one head recorded. This individual animal sold at a fat rate of 340.0 cents per kilogram, achieving a per head return of $1,496.00 and contributing a total of $2,992.00 to the day’s turnover.

Market Summary

Overall, the 2 April Prime sale at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange demonstrated a strong and competitive market. The sale saw over 615,000 kilograms of livestock traded, generating nearly $2 million in gross value. Most categories held frm, with particular strength noted in steers, cows, and heifers. High clearance rates, strong averages, and enthusiastic bidding across the board confrmed confdence in the local cattle market. Buyers continue to compete for well-fnished stock, and feeder interest remains high amid solid seasonal conditions. This sale reinforces the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange’s role as a key hub for quality cattle in the region, providing consistent outcomes for producers and buyers alike.

M. Bolam, whose Angus yearlings sold at $4.16/kg, returning $1,331.

Weaner Steers

A mixed yarding of weaner steers was presented, with only a few top lines. Neil Armstrong’s Angus steers fetched $4.46/kg for a return of $836, while Davies & Jones’ Brangus steers achieved $4.38/kg, returning $1,073.

Weaner Heifers

Quality was varied among weaner heifers, with most selling between $2.90 and $3.40/kg.

• Armstrong Family achieved $196 and $192 for shorn Dorper lambs at 49kg and 45.8kg respectively to GR Prime.

• Frost Farming received $200 for Dorper/Charolais x lambs (51.7kg) sold to Our Cow.

• Cooper Rafton sold grain-fed Dorper lambs (46.8kg) to Leslie Lamb for $190.

• Warboys Family Dorper lambs sold to GR Prime for $199.

• Banbri Farming sold lambs from $158 down to $88, depending on weight.

• Gall Farming Dorper x ewes made $57–$105 to Thomas Foods.

• Cooinda P/S grain-assisted lambs sold between $118 and $140 to GR Prime.

Pork and Poultry

Ahead of Easter, pork numbers were on the rise and prices strengthened:

• Boars sold between $110–$235

• Sows from $150–$260

• Light pork fetched $150–$190

• Standard pork sold between $190–$225

• Stores achieved $60–$172

Poultry numbers were slightly back but still saw standout prices:

• Pullets topped at $37.50

• Hens led the pack at $40

• Roosters reached $10

• Guinea Fowl sold for up to $12.50

• Ducks remained subdued at $4

Summary

Despite challenging weather impacting livestock movement and market participation, the Warwick & District livestock sales demonstrated resilience. Strong buyer demand and reduced supply contributed to frmer prices across many categories. With food impacts still unfolding across the region, future markets will likely remain sensitive to both seasonal and logistical factors.

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Australia’s long-term access to structural timber looks secure, with the latest Wood Volumes Analysis report confrming that domestic supply will be able to meet rising demand well into the future.

Released today by

the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES), the report examines projected supply and demand for key wood products, particularly those used in the construction industry.

ABARES Executive Director Dr Jared Greenville said the

fndings highlight the strength and diversity of Australia’s timber supply, as well as the critical role timber plays in the nation’s building sector.

“Timber is a vital material in Australian construction,” Dr Greenville said. “With population growth driving increased

Strong Future for Timber as Supply Rises to Meet Growing Demand

housing needs, demand for construction-related timber is forecast to rise by around 50% by 2050. However, fnal demand will also depend on housing preferences, as some dwelling types require more timber than others.”

On the supply side, the outlook is even more encouraging. The report projects that domestic log availability will grow by approximately 70% through to 2055.

Notably, softwood sawlog availability is expected to peak at a record 16.8 million cubic metres per year between 2050 and 2054.

“Australian plantation managers continue to

invest in sustainable practices and work closely with mills to enhance production capacity and expand the range of timber products available locally,” Dr Greenville added.

While domestic supply is set to grow, international markets will remain an important buffer in times of shortterm demand spikes.

“Because forestry production is a long-term process, short-run surges in demand can place strain on supply. In these instances, international markets have been essential in flling the gap, ensuring steady support for domestic construction activity,” Dr

Greenville said.

“Despite challenges like those experienced during the COVID pandemic, global markets remain resilient. With strong international log availability and continued technological innovation, global trade in forest and wood products is expected to remain reliable.”

For further details and access to the full report, visit the QR Code below.

Australian Agriculture Sector ‘Profoundly Disappointed’ by U.S. Tariff Decision

The Australian agricultural industry has expressed deep disappointment following the United States’ unexpected decision to impose a 10% tariff on all Australian exports. The move, which signifcantly disrupts a long-standing partnership between the two nations, has been described by the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) as a serious step backward for global trade relations and economic stability.

NFF President David Jochinke voiced the sector’s frustrations, highlighting the contradiction such a measure poses to the principles of the Australia–United States Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA), which has underpinned zero-tariff, two-way agricultural trade between the countries for nearly two decades.

“This decision is a disappointing step backward for our nations and for the global economy,” Mr Jochinke said.

Calls for Calm

and Constructive Engagement

Following direct discussions with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Mr Jochinke emphasised that the Australian agriculture sector does not support retaliatory tariffs. Instead, the NFF is calling for a calm, measured approach to resolving the trade dispute.

“The Australian agricultural industry supports a considered and measured approach to negotiations with the United States,” Mr Jochinke said, “and

will work closely with the Government and all sides of politics to seek a resolution to this issue.”

He reiterated the NFF’s support for the Government’s defence of Australia’s science-based biosecurity framework, which is believed to be a key factor behind the U.S. decision. Australia’s biosecurity protocols, while stringent, are essential for maintaining the country’s diseasefree status and global reputation for clean, safe food production.

Championing Free and Fair Trade

The NFF has long

advocated for free and fair trade as a cornerstone of a healthy global economy. Mr Jochinke reinforced this commitment, saying Australia’s farmers have become among the most effcient and productive in the world due to limited domestic subsidies and openmarket pressures.

“While this decision creates unnecessary uncertainty, we remain confdent in the strength of Australian agriculture. Our products are sought after worldwide for their quality, sustainability, and reliability.”

Broad Economic and Industry Impacts

The U.S. decision could have wide-reaching impacts across both nations, considering the deeply interconnected nature of their agricultural trade and investment ties. The United States is a multibillion-dollar investor in Australian agriculture, holding interests in around two million hectares of farmland. Key aspects of the bilateral relationship include:

• Australia imports approximately $2.5 billion AUD worth

of U.S. food and agricultural products each year.

• Australian farmers rely on U.S. innovations such as crop science, genetics, and insurance products.

• Australia imports about $400 million AUD worth of U.S. agricultural machinery annually.

• Decades-long industry-to-industry relationships have been built, forming a strong cultural and commercial bridge between the sectors.

These interdependencies highlight the risks of escalating trade tensions and underline the importance of restoring stability through diplomacy. Government Support and Future Market Diversifcation In response to the tariffs, the Australian Government has announced a $50 million support package to assist affected sectors in diversifying their markets and reducing their reliance on U.S. exports. The NFF has welcomed this funding commitment and is seeking further clarity

on how the assistance will be rolled out and allocated.

“We will continue working closely with the Australian Government to ensure that our sector’s trade interests are protected,” Mr Jochinke said. “That includes strengthening our market access efforts to ensure Australian producers have every opportunity to succeed.”

Looking Ahead

While the 10% tariff presents a new challenge, the Australian agricultural sector is no stranger to adversity.

The industry’s resilience, built on decades of trade reform and innovation, positions it well to adapt and respond.

The NFF remains committed to achieving a resolution that protects the integrity of Australia’s agricultural exports while preserving its vital trading relationships. In the meantime, producers and exporters will be watching closely for any further developments in what is shaping up to be a critical moment for international trade relations.

IAN ROGERS

IAN ROGERS

NFF President David Jochinke

Flood Crisis Devastates Rural NSW and Queensland, National Ripple Effects Expected

National Rural Health Alliance calls for urgent action and national strategy

The devastating foods sweeping through rural New South Wales and Queensland are not only destroying homes, farms, and livelihoods—they are threatening the health, wellbeing, and economic security of rural Australians, whose contributions are vital to the nation’s prosperity.

Following the destruction wrought by ex-Cyclone Alfred, rural communities are now facing an unprecedented food disaster, with more than 100,000 head of livestock lost or missing, and widespread damage to farmland, roads, and infrastructure. According to the National Rural

Health Alliance (NRHA), the consequences will extend far beyond regional areas, with urban Australians expected to feel the knock-on effects through increased food prices, service disruptions, and heightened public health risks.

“This is a national crisis that affects every Australian,” said NRHA Chief Executive Susi Tegen.

“The health and

safety of our rural communities are at serious risk. But beyond the immediate danger, the wider economic and social impacts—from rising grocery prices to interrupted supply chains—will be felt nationwide.”

With the Federal Election approaching, the NRHA is calling on all political parties to commit to a comprehensive, well-funded National

Rural Health Strategy to support long-term recovery and build resilience against future natural disasters.

Ms Tegen emphasised that rural Australia is not just a place—it is the backbone of the national economy.

“Rural Australians are key contributors to agriculture, small business, tourism, and food production. It is critical that we properly invest in their health and wellbeing, particularly in times of disaster.”

The Alliance highlighted a range of food-related health concerns, including:

• Food insecurity and contaminated water supplies

• Poor air quality and the spread of respiratory illnesses from mould

• Increased mosquito

and black fy activity, raising the risk of vector-borne diseases

• Limited access to medications, healthcare, and essential services

• Emotional and mental distress following the loss of homes, livestock, and livelihoods

Compounding these challenges are skyrocketing insurance premiums, particularly in Queensland, where some households report annual premiums increasing from $3,500 to over $13,500 within two years. The affordability crisis is forcing many rural families to abandon food insurance altogether, leaving them dangerously exposed.

“It is unacceptable that rural Australians are forced to choose between insuring their homes and

paying their mortgages,” Ms Tegen said.

“Natural disasters are a fact of life in rural Australia. What we need is a national, long-term plan to mitigate their health impacts and ensure our communities are not left behind.”

The National Rural Health Alliance represents 53 national organisations committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the more than 7 million Australians living in rural and remote areas. Its members include healthcare providers, health professional bodies, educators, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health representatives.

For more information on the NRHA’s advocacy and policy work, visit: www.ruralhealth.org.au

National Fire Ant Eradication Program Ensures Donated Fodder Remains Fire Ant-Free

In response to the recent foods impacting Western Queensland’s agricultural sector, the National Fire Ant Eradication Program (NFAEP) has intensifed efforts to prevent the spread of fre ants through donated fodder. Beginning 3 April, NFAEP has deployed compliance offcers, odour detection dogs, and eradication teams to inspect and monitor fodder donations originating from fre ant biosecurity zones.

Proactive Measures to Safeguard Agriculture

The NFAEP’s initiative focuses on ensuring that all donated fodder complies with stringent biosecurity protocols during production, treatment, and storage. This proactive approach aims to prevent the inadvertent introduction of fre ants into Western Queensland, thereby protecting the region’s agricultural integrity.

Understanding the Fire Ant Threat Fire ants pose a signifcant risk to agribusinesses by:

• Destroying crops and production areas

• Damaging farming equipment and machinery

• Compromising livestock health

Beyond agriculture, these invasive pests threaten public health, the environment, and the economy. Humanassisted movement, particularly through materials like hay and baled goods, is a primary vector for their spread, underscoring the importance of stringent biosecurity measures.

Commitment to Compliance and Monitoring

The NFAEP’s comprehensive strategy includes rigorous inspections and continuous monitoring

at fodder production sites prior to distribution. This ensures that all donated materials are free from fre ants, thereby safeguarding farmers and preventing the pest’s proliferation.

Offcial Statement

Robert Wilson, Compliance Manager of the NFAEP, emphasized the program’s dedication:

“We understand the immense challenges farmers face following the devastating foods, and we are committed to ensuring they receive the support they need while protecting Queensland’s environment and agricultural industries

from the spread of fre ants.”

He further highlighted the collaborative efforts with transport companies and producers to maintain compliance with Queensland’s Biosecurity Act 2014, stressing the critical nature of proper handling and transportation of materials susceptible to fre ant infestation.

Guidance for Stakeholders

Individuals and organizations involved in handling or transporting materials that may carry fre ants are urged to:

• Verify their fre ant biosecurity zone status

• Adhere strictly to movement controls

• Stay updated with monthly revisions available at freants.org.

au For further information or assistance, stakeholders can contact the NFAEP at 132 ANT (13 22 68) or visit freants.org.au.

Through these concerted efforts, the NFAEP aims to support food-affected farmers while ensuring the continued protection of Queensland’s agricultural landscapes from the pervasive threat of fre ants.

IAN ROGERS

NRHA Chief Executive Susi Tegen.

IAN ROGERS

Sunshine Sugar on the search for Leadership successor

The search for a new Chief Executive Offcer to run the nations’ only 100% Australian owned raw and refned sugar manufacturer is underway.

The current leader, Mr Chris Connors is stepping back after 17 years at the helm of Sunshine Sugar and a career spanning over 50 years in the Australian sugar and mining industries.

On refection, Mr Connors says: “There are a lot of programs we have introduced to deliver longer term sustainability. We have had some outstanding results from our hedge programs and the restructure of our refnery sales programs. However, it is the base programs and policies that deliver the results. Continuous improvement, safety and cultural change programs detailed in our

Strategic Business Plan, are underpinned by the values developed by our people - Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence, Accountability and Safety.

Since 2008, Mr Connors has led the organisation through many milestone events. Just a few include; 2012 - Sunshine Sugar awarded international Bonsucro certifcation across farming, milling and refning operations 2013 - Negotiated the sale of the Broadwater and Condong biomass power stations to current owner/operators Cape Byron Power 2015 - NSW Sugar Milling Co-operative Ltd and Manildra Group merged on a 50/50 ownership basis 2017 - Launch of new Sunshine Sugar retail product brand 2018 - Secured the patent for Australian nucane technology to produce

Low GI sugar 2019 - Purchase of a feet of new Mercedes trucks with state-of-theart safety features for cane hauling 2020 - State-of-the-art storage and distribution warehouse offcially opened with assistance from the Federal Government’s Regional Funds Program

2021 - Developed the Business Continuity Plan to ensure continued operations through the height of the COVID-19 pandemic 2022 - Led the business recovery following catastrophic fooding across all three cane growing regions of NSW and unprecedented damage at the Broadwater and Condong sugar mills. This included successful application for a $12.6 million grant under the Anchor Grant scheme. When asked for comment on some

ABARES Weekly Update:

words of advice to his successor, Mr Connors quoted; “This is not a simple business. You need to ensure you have plans in place across the business and have your teams take responsibility for the outcome. Relationships with growers and the board are incredibly important. You need to listen but also be prepared to make your own decisions that deliver the right outcomes.”

Executive search frm Rimfre Resources have been tasked with fnding the next Chief Executive for Sunshine Sugar.

The successful candidate will have extensive business management experience at the Senior Executive level in a manufacturing environment, ideally with exposure to agribusiness, and have a positive and professional leadership style.

The ability to manage

political sensitivities and build collaborative working relationships with a broad range of stakeholders from farmers, to process operators, customers, suppliers, industry bodies and business partners – balancing the priorities of multiple agendas – will be an

essential skill. This is an extremely rare opportunity to lead a 100% Australian sugar milling and refning company located in an unmatched business and lifestyle coastal location with an experienced, knowledgeable and engaged team.

Signifcant Rainfall Impacts Northern and Eastern Australia

Weekly Australian Climate, Water and Agricultural Update

Intense Rainfall Across Northern and Eastern Regions

During this period, monsoon lows and low-pressure systems delivered signifcant rainfall:

• Queensland: Received between 10 to 400 millimetres, with higher concentrations in the southern areas.

• Northern Territory and Northern Western Australia: Recorded rainfall totals ranging from 5 to 200 millimetres.

• Northern South Australia: Experienced rainfall between 5 to 50 millimetres. While these heavy rains have led to extensive fooding, resulting in losses of livestock and damage to farm infrastructure, they are also anticipated to enhance pasture growth, soil moisture, and on-farm water storage in the coming months.

Impact on Summer Cropping Regions

In key summer cropping areas:

• Queensland:

Rainfall totals of 50 to 200 millimetres were recorded, particularly higher in the southern regions.

• Northern New South Wales: Experienced rainfall between 50 to 300 millimetres. These substantial rainfall events are expected to improve stored soil moisture, benefting future planting. However, they may also cause crop losses, quality downgrades, and delays in harvesting unharvested summer crops.

Water Storage Levels in the Murray-Darling Basin

As of 3 April 2025, water storage in the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB) decreased by 140 gigalitres from the previous week, holding a total of 12,147 GL. This volume represents 54% of the total storage capacity and is 28% (4,803 GL) less than the same time last year.

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Allocation Prices in the Victorian Murray Allocation prices in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke declined from $196 on 27 March 2025 to $190 on 3 April 2025. Prices

remain lower in regions above the Barmah Choke due to the binding trade constraint in that area. Rainfall Forecast for the Next Eight Days Looking ahead, lowpressure systems are expected to bring further rainfall over the eight days to 10 April 2025:

• Northern Tropics: Anticipated to receive between 10 to 100 millimetres.

• Western Australia Cropping Regions: Forecasted to see 10 to 50 millimetres.

• South Australia, Victoria, New South

Wales, and Southern Queensland Cropping Regions: Expected to receive between 5 to 25 millimetres. These forecasts suggest continued wet conditions across the north, south, and east of the country, which could further infuence agricultural activities and water resource management.

For more detailed information and ongoing updates, access the full ABARES report.

Mr Chris Connors

Banana Growers Recommence TR4 Surveillance to Safeguard Industry

The Australian Banana Growers’ Council (ABGC) has announced the recommencement of its TR4 surveillance program, with inspections set to resume on 7 April 2025. Led by the ABGC Grower Support (Biosecurity) team and supported by government agencies, the program plays a critical role in protecting the future of Australia’s banana industry from the serious threat of Panama disease tropical race 4 (TR4).

The early detection

and management of TR4 is vital in limiting the spread of the disease, which poses a signifcant biosecurity risk to banana plantations and the broader agricultural sector.

“TR4 is one of the most serious threats to Australian banana production,” said ABGC Chair Leon Collins.

“This industry-led surveillance program is essential to protecting our crops, livelihoods, and communities. We are grateful for the continued collaboration with growers, stakeholders, and government.”

The surveillance

effort will be carried out in close partnership with Biosecurity Queensland, with a focus on inspections, plant sampling, and monitoring of potential risk areas. The program supports growers in fulflling their General Biosecurity Obligation (GBO), ensuring strong biosecurity practices are in place across bananagrowing regions.

Michael Reid, Chief Plant Health Manager for Queensland, emphasised the need for widespread participation.

“For surveillance to be truly effective, every grower must be

involved,” he said.

“Our team will work closely with the ABGC to ensure all growers are taking reasonable and practical steps to minimise risk.”

The program relies on a collaborative approach involving growers, farm workers, suppliers, and other industry participants. The ABGC will continue to provide on-the-ground guidance and support to help all parties meet their GBO and adopt best-practice biosecurity measures.

In addition to physical inspections, the program will incorporate plant sampling and the

monitoring of high-risk zones, ensuring the surveillance network is robust and responsive.

“We’re here to support the industry however we can,” added Mr Collins, who also grows bananas in Tully and Lakeland.

“ABGC is committed to offering resources, training, and practical assistance to help our growers stay one step ahead of TR4. Together, we can safeguard the future of the Australian banana industry.”

Growers have been regularly updated on surveillance plans, and ABGC continues to encourage

communication and engagement as the program rolls out.

For more information about the TR4 surveillance program or to get involved, visit the ABGC TR4 website or contact the Grower Support Team by scanning the QR code below.

Banana Industry Unites for 2025 Congress on the Gold Coast

IAN ROGERS

Banana growers, researchers, and industry leaders from across Australia and the globe will converge on the Gold Coast from 6–8 August for the 16th Australian Banana Industry Congress.

Celebrating three decades since the inaugural Congress— also held on the Gold Coast in 1995—the 2025 event will mark this milestone while tackling pressing industry topics and highlighting the sector’s evolution into a diverse, innovative, and forward-thinking

powerhouse.

Hosted by the Australian Banana Growers’ Council (ABGC) and shaped by a committee of growers and industry representatives, Congress is the premier event for those involved in growing and supplying Australia’s number one fruit.

Congress Chair Paul Inderbitzin, a grower from Lakeland in Far North Queensland, urged everyone in the industry to get involved.

“To put it simply, this one is for us,” Mr Inderbitzin said. “It’s driven by industry, solely focused on bananas, and

offers unmatched access to the latest research, innovation, grower insights and more.

“For a $600 million industry, this kind of event is not just ftting—it’s essential. Opportunities to bring so many banana-focused minds together are rare, and we should make the most of it.”

The 2025 program will kick off with a Scientifc Symposium on Wednesday, followed by a two-day plenary program featuring keynote speakers, panel sessions, and topical discussions on Thursday and Friday.

Headline speakers

include:

• Professor Altus Viljoen (Stellenbosch University), a global expert on Panama TR4 and banana varieties

• Dr Jana Pittman

– world champion athlete, doctor, media personality, and mother

• John Moor (GrowMoor Biological), a leading voice on farming succession

• Billy Collett, reptile expert, with a few surprise guests in tow

• Pip Courtney from ABC Landline, who returns as MC to guide the event

Panels and sessions will address issues around compliance, agtech,

workforce development, and sustainability, with the full program to be announced soon.

Congress is also known for its social highlights, including the Banana Women’s Network luncheon, the Banana Ball, and early-morning ftness sessions for those who prefer to kick-start their day with movement.

Above all, the event offers the opportunity to be “in the room” where the big conversations are happening—connecting with peers, sharing ideas, and building relationships that shape the future of the banana industry.

Early bird registrations are now open at www. bananacongress.org.au

ABGC grower members can access two discounted registrations at $500 each, representing more than 50% off the standard rate—an initiative designed to make the Congress more accessible to growers.

Partnership and exhibition opportunities are still available, and the ABGC thanks all sponsors who have already come on board to support this important industry event.

IAN ROGERS

prevent new growth.

As the cooler months approach, preparing your garden and lawn for winter is essential to protect your plants, improve soil health, and ensure a vibrant comeback in spring. Cleaning up your outdoor space before winter not only prevents disease and pest issues but also saves you time and effort in the long run. Here’s what to do when tidying up your garden and lawn for the colder season.

1. Remove Weeds Thoroughly Winter may slow down weed growth, but it doesn’t eliminate the problem. In fact, many weeds lie dormant and bounce back in spring if left unchecked.

• Pull weeds by the roots to prevent regrowth. Tackle both garden beds and lawn areas.

• Use a hoe or hand tool for stubborn or deep-rooted varieties.

• Apply mulch or a natural weed suppressant after removing weeds to block sunlight and

• Avoid using chemical weed killers late in the season as they may affect soil health through winter.

2. Prune Strategically Pruning is a vital part of garden maintenance and plays an important role in plant health over winter.

• Prune dead, damaged, or diseased branches from trees and shrubs to prevent fungal infections and breakage during storms.

• Cut back herbaceous perennials that have fnished fowering. However, consider leaving some stems and seed heads for wildlife and winter interest.

• Avoid heavy pruning of spring-fowering plants like azaleas and camellias, as they set their buds in autumn. Prune these only after fowering in spring.

• Lightly trim hedges to neaten up the garden and prevent overgrowth.

3. Clear Leaves and Debris

Fallen leaves, twigs, and plant debris can smother grass and harbor pests.

• Rake up leaves from lawns, garden beds, and around pathways.

Compost healthy leaves or use them as mulch.

• Remove spent annuals and vegetables that are past their prime. These can carry diseases or attract insects if left in the soil.

• Clean out gutters and drains to prevent blockages from accumulated garden debris.

4. Mulch and Protect Garden Beds

Adding mulch is one of the best ways to insulate your garden during winter.

• Apply a thick layer (5–10 cm) of organic mulch such as bark chips, straw, or compost around the base of plants and across bare soil.

• Mulch helps regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress late-season weeds.

• Avoid piling mulch against the stems or trunks of plants to prevent rot.

5. Feed and Aerate Your Lawn

Your lawn needs a little attention before it goes dormant.

• Mow the grass one fnal time, leaving it slightly taller than usual to protect the roots.

• Rake and remove

thatch buildup so that air and water can reach the soil.

• Aerate compacted areas using a garden fork or lawn aerator.

• Apply a slow-release autumn or winter lawn fertiliser to strengthen the root system for the months ahead.

6. Care for Tools and Structures

Now is the time to look after your gardening gear and fxtures.

• Clean and oil garden tools to prevent rust and ensure they’re ready for spring.

• Sharpen blades on secateurs, hedge trimmers, and mowers.

• Inspect and repair fences, garden beds, and irrigation systems while the garden is quieter.

• Drain garden hoses and store them indoors or in a dry place to prevent freezing and cracking.

7. Consider Winter Planting

Some plants actually thrive when planted before winter.

• Add winter vegetables like garlic, onions, spinach, and broad beans to your veggie patch.

• Plant hardy perennials and bare-root

A Complete Guide: Cleaning Up Your Garden and Lawn Before Winter

fruit trees during late autumn so they can establish roots before spring. Final Tips

• Water your garden deeply before the cold sets in, especially if it’s been dry.

• Label plantings and cover delicate plants with frost cloths or cloches if frost is common in your area.

A GARDEN EXPERIENCE

• Keep a garden journal or take notes on what worked well this season to help plan next year’s improvements. With just a few welltimed tasks, your garden and lawn will be tidy, protected, and ready to rest over winter—so you can enjoy a more manageable and productive space come spring.

JEFF GIBBS

400 Head

Murwillumbah Saleyards Saturday, 12th April 2025 9:00AM AEST

Comprising:

120 Angus X Weaners - Mixed Sex

150 Euro Weaners - Mixed Sex

80 X Bred Weaners - Mixed Sex

20 X Bred Cows & Calves

A/c Owner

20 Simmental Shorthorn X Cows & Calves.

2nd & 3rd Calf. Very Good Quality.

Further Bookings Invited Brent Casey Jasen Somerville 0428 530 422 0429 660 657

A/c P & G Johnston - Bonalbo

20 F1 Brahman Heifers Rising 3 y.o

13 F1 Brahman Cows, 2nd calf

* The above breeders are PTIC to Hereford Bull

A/c G & B Makejev - Tabulam

25 F1 Brahman Heifers Rising 3 y.o

* The above Heifers are PTIC to Medlyn Angus Bull.

A/c P & P Johnston – Korleeah

25 Simbrah x Braford Heifers

*1st & 2nd calf PTIC to Simbrah & Braford bulls

A/c Glengyle Partnership –Woodenbong

50 Hereford Heifers 17-20 m.o

20 Angus x Hereford Heifers 1720 m.o

*Top quality unjoined heifers

A/c Jarrett & Nicholls - Leycester

35 Charbray Heifers 18-20 m.o

*Top quality unjoined

A/c Balunda Program - Tabulam

35 Santa x Steers 8-10 m.o

Further bookings invited for this forthcoming sale Allen Ramsey 0428 664 927 Wayne Bulmer 0428 661 167

Davis 0429 623 066

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WEATHER

www.bom.gov.au

Warnings:

www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

FORECAST

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. High chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. The chance of a storm. Light winds becoming southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the afternoon.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the south. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Light winds becoming southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the afternoon.

Northern Tablelands District: Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers on and east of the ranges, slight chance elsewhere. Winds northeast to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light during the morning then becoming east to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the afternoon.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog on and east of the ranges. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Winds northeast to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light during the morning then becoming east to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon.

New South Wales:

Showers along the northern ranges and coast, scattered at times, tending to isolated shower activity for the remainder of the coast. A chance of a shower across the North West Slopes and Plains. Isolated storms possible for the north coast, and offshore storms between the Illawarra and Hunter. Patchy morning fog along the southern ranges. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere. East to northeasterly winds.

Thursday. Isolated showers along the central and northern coastal fringe, extending to the ranges in the northeast. Chance of a shower across the central and northern slopes and plains. Chance of a storm along the far northeastern coastal fringe, mostly offshore.

Patchy morning fog along the ranges. Dry and partly cloudy elsewhere. North to

Byron Coast: Winds: SE10 to 15 knots. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Southerly 1 to 1.5 metres inshore, increasing to 1.5 to 2 metres offshore. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers. Chance of a storm. Coffs Coast: Winds: Southeasterly 10 to 15 knots turning easterly during the afternoon. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Southerly 2 metres, decreasing to 1.5 metres during the evening. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers. The chance of a storm.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Southeasterly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore north of Point Lookout. Swell: Southerly 1 to 2 metres, decreasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the morning. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers. The chance of a storm.

northeasterly winds.

Breaking Down Barriers to Regional Women’s Sport: Barker Ryan Stewart Champions FNC Rugby Union

In a signifcant boost for women’s sport in the Northern Rivers, Barker Ryan Stewart has proudly announced its sponsorship of the Far North Coast Rugby Union (FNCRU) Open Women’s Competition for the 2025 season. The competition will now offcially be known as the Barker Ryan Stewart Cup.

The newly named competition will feature seven teams and kicks off on Saturday, 5 April, running through to Saturday, 30 August 2025. The sponsorship marks a pivotal moment for women’s rugby in the region, helping to

Cherry Street Croquet Club – Weekly Sports Wrap-Up

It’s been another exciting and competitive week at the Cherry Street Croquet Club, with members enjoying a mix of friendly rivalry, skillful plays, and tournament success across Association and Ricochet Croquet. The courts were alive with action and camaraderie, refecting the spirit of sportsmanship the club is known for.

Association Croquet

In a tightly contested match, G. Drew edged out S. Hume and P. Hume with a fnal score of 11 to 9. The game showcased great strategy and precise shot-making, with Drew holding composure

expand participation and visibility while addressing long-standing barriers to inclusion in sport.

Supporting Growth and Opportunity for Regional Women Athletes

With this sponsorship, FNCRU aims to foster an environment that supports the growth of women’s rugby, encouraging greater participation, improving competition standards, and providing pathways for professional development in the sport.

Ian Stewart, Director at Barker Ryan Stewart, said the partnership refects the company’s commitment to

supporting inclusive and community-driven initiatives.

“We are so proud to be making this investment to support a club who shares our values and is deeply committed to creating inclusive environments,” Mr Stewart said.

“There are a number of barriers to playing sports for women – professionally or recreationally –including cultural and social expectations, limited access and resources, reduced media coverage, and economic limitations.”

“We wish all the Women’s Competition

under pressure to secure the win.

Ricochet Croquet Ricochet players delivered a full schedule of competitive matches, flled with impressive teamwork and sharp tactics:

• J. Dorward and D. Scott combined well to take a strong 15–12 victory over G. Kerr and R. Allen in a high-energy match.

• J. Doust and J. Hannigan displayed excellent coordination to claim a solid 14–9 win against P. Scott.

• P. Bolte held his nerve in a solo match to defeat M. Russell 15–10, showing fne individual form.

• R. Poynting and R. Chapman just nudged past J. Hannigan and

G. Porter 12–11, in one of the closest matches of the day.

• H. Young and P. Scott worked well as a team, fnishing with an 11–9 victory against R. Allen and N. Poynting.

• J. Doust and N. Barnes continued their winning form with a 14–12 result over N. Watts and M. Russell.

• In a fantastic display of family teamwork, G. Mahoney and C. Mahoney pulled off a thrilling 16–13 win against P. Bolte and M. Field.

The club congratulates all players for their sportsmanship, effort, and the wonderful atmosphere they bring to the game.

Tournament Spotlight D. Scott proudly

players a successful season ahead.”

A Shared Vision for Equity in Sport

Sonia Makings, Women’s Director of Far North Coast Rugby Union, welcomed the sponsorship as a gamechanging development for the competition.

“Having BRS on board as a sponsor for the Women’s Competition is exciting for the FNC zone and our players,” she said.

“This investment will help us create a safe and supportive environment for women to play the game we all love. It is great to have a partner that lives and

represented Cherry Street Croquet Club at the NSW Men’s Golf Croquet Singles Championships, fnishing 3rd in the Y Division. This is a fantastic achievement and a testament to David’s skill and dedication. The club extends its congratulations and looks forward to more tournament success from our members in the future.

Mahjong Results –Friday, 4 April

There was a great turnout for Mahjong at the Ballina Bridge Club on Friday, where players gathered for an afternoon of strategy, laughter, and friendly competition.

Congratulations to this

breathes our values and understands the nuances of support required in order to make our goals a reality.”

The sponsorship is expected to support not only player development and game-day logistics, but also to help enhance visibility of the competition in regional media and sporting networks.

Backing Community and Connection

The FNCRU’s commitment to women’s sport is part of a broader mission to break down traditional barriers in regional athletics – a cause that aligns perfectly with

Barker Ryan Stewart’s community-focused ethos.

The organisation encourages the entire Far North Coast community to get behind the competition this season – attending games, supporting local clubs, and celebrating the efforts of women who are changing the landscape of rugby union in regional NSW.

For fxtures, team information, and updates throughout the season, visit: www.fncru.com.au.

week’s top players:

1. Vanessa Reynolds –A well-deserved frst place!

2. Shirley Atkinson

3. Carol Meyer

4. Jan Rhodes

5. Joy Lowien

6. Ronda Taylor

7. Linda Lloyd

8. Jan Small

9. Sally Lowry

10. Jeanette Henwood

11. Janene Jarvis

12. Lisa Wong & Wendy Thornton (tied)

13. Margaret Bryant

14. Kath Hubbard

15. Lynda Lovett

16. Jan Henley

17. Cindy Smith & Jan Boardman (tied)

18. Gladys D’Anna

19. Pauline Bolte

20. Gail McDonagh

21. Pam Farrell

22. Susan Allan

Thank you to all who participated – whether you placed or not, your presence and enthusiasm make Mahjong Fridays such a joy.

Mahjong is played every Friday at the Ballina Bridge Club from 12:15pm. New players are always welcome, and it’s a fantastic way to sharpen the mind while making new friends. For details, contact Shirley on 0423 384 647.

Have a local sports or community group you’d like featured in next week’s newsletter? Let us know!

23. Pauline Kearney

WRIGHT ON TARGET Ice-Cool Redmen Delivers Killer Blow

Players dream of nailing a sideline conversion on the stroke of full-time to snatch victory for their side.

And for Redmen inside-centre and goalkicker Michael Wright, his dream became reality when he slotted a dramatic conversion centimetres from the sideline to give his side a remarkable 33-31 victory over a shell-shocked Port Pirates on Saturday.

Down 31-26 with three minutes remaining, Ed McGrath received a peach of a pass from fullback Dylan Lewis to dive over in the corner and level-up proceedings.

Only minutes earlier, Wright nailed a conversion from the opposite sideline to keep his side within striking distance.

But with the game on the line, the Redmen inside centre owned the clutch moment as he, and his teammates, watched the ball sail between the uprights for an unlikely victory.

Pirates dominated most of the game with

fundamental errors robbing Grafton of crucial ball and gifting Pirates feld position.

The Redmen looked done and dusted but somehow clawed their way back into the contest with a never-say-die attitude.

Redmen frst grade coach Gary Powell was jubilant after his sides come-from-behind win.

“It’s a massive win for us, especially to go down to Coffs and come away with the points,” Powell said after the game.

“To be behind on the scoreboard by 14 points and come back from that…it’s one of the best wins I have witnessed in the past couple of years.

“We had a disjointed preparation with all the rain around and during the game we had fve or six injuries and had to replace players which resulted in them playing out of position.”

When asked about his side’s inability to control the ball, Powell gave a blunt assessment.

“There were patches throughout the game where we were great, but we forced too many passes and going for that miracle ball,” he said.

“I think patience probably let us down at times as well as discipline. We gave away too many penalties and received two yellow cards which made it hard.

“Overall, I thought our ftness was okay and we hung in there. They’re the sort of games we would have lost a couple of years ago.

“I also think the experience we had out there today helped us and the blokes I needed to stand up did.”

Powell was full of praise for Wright and added his goal-kicker deserved plenty of praise.

“Mikey deserves a lot of credit for the win. He puts in a lot of practice before and after training each week,” Powell said.

“The match-winning goal was massive for him and massive for the team.”

For Grafton Dylan Lewis was simply superb at the back with scrumhalf Jope Kurimosi also a standout.

In the forwards Liam Burnett and Jo Buasporo also produced strong games.

their season

netballers had an extra pep in their step with funding from

Greater Bank set to subsidise registration fees to help more youngsters play the sport they love.

Greater Bank Sponsorship Boosts Netball In Ballina

Junior State Titles, the 15-years division 3 win and the 17-years male state challenge taking frst place at the Netball NSW Senior State Titles, the association is keen to bring more participants to the game.

the regional league over the weekend and were runners up in division 2 which is a massive achievement,” Ms Walker said.

Following a strong 2024, which saw Ballina’s 14-years division 3 runners up at the Netball NSW

Ballina Netball Association President Kelly Walker said they want to ensure the cost of participation was not a barrier for Ballina’s representative players.

“We had an amazing year last season, and our under 17’s competed in

“We are so grateful for Greater Bank’s support, which will directly assist our representative players and provide equipment for our Saturday carnivals.”

Greater Bank Ballina Branch Manager Angela Storck said netball brings a touching display of community spirit to the cooler months.

“We are really proud to support the local netball associations that bring our community together for good,” Mrs Storck said.

“It’s great to see people come together to cheer along their family and friends from the sidelines – it’s great to see our sense of spirit come to life!

“It’s going to be another brilliant season, and we hope everyone has a fun year.”

GARY NICHOLS

New recruit for the Redmen Damon Kirby sprints into the clear during the Redmen’s shock win over Port Pirates on Saturday. Photo: Gary Nichols.

A strong ball carry from the Redmen puts a dent in the Port Pirates defensive line. Photo: Gary Nichols.

With

kicking off over the weekend, Ballina’s